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China's humanoid robot market to hit 10 billion yuan, eyes 119 billion yuan by 2030: report

09:26, April 12, 2024 By Leng Shumei ( Global Times

Research unveiled during the inaugural China Humanoid Robot Industry Conference in Beijing from April 9 to 10 indicates that the global humanoid robot industry is entering a golden era, poised for sustained growth. The report predicted that the Chinese humanoid robot market will surpass 10 billion yuan, reaching 10.47 billion yuan ($1.45 billion) by 2026, and is anticipated to soar to 119 billion yuan by 2030.

The booming market is seemingly telling people that intelligent humanoid robots that can simulate human thinking and consciousness, as depicted in films like Ex Machina and A.I. Artificial Intelligence, are really getting closer to reality.

The rapid development of AI technology has played a crucial role in the advancement of humanoid robots. As NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang said at the 2024 GPU Technology Conference (GTC) in March, "Building foundation models for general humanoid robots is one of the most exciting problems to solve in AI today."

In return, the advancement of humanoid robots is viewed as a major milestone in the AI era, pushing the boundaries of AI research. Numerous Chinese experts and industry observers consider humanoid robots a breakthrough for the "AI Plus" initiative aimed at fostering innovative development in the digital economy, as promoted during the two sessions in March.

Golden Age along with AI

Humanoid robots are dubbed "humanoid" because they are designed to emulate and potentially surpass human capabilities in form, function, behavior, and even cognitive processes, Zhang Rui, founder and executive director of the Art Robot company in Beijing, told the Global Times.

"Without the need for massive changes to the existing environment, humanoid robots can seamlessly integrate into various scenarios, using their flexible and dynamic execution capabilities to meet complex and changing task requirements. Furthermore, their human-like characteristics enable them to easily manipulate human tools, further expanding their application areas," Zhang said.

Therefore, humanoid robots are not only a symbol of technological progress but also a significant force driving future social development, he noted.

Humanoid robots have been widely applied in various industries, with the aerospace sector being one of the most prominent, according to Zhang. Several countries including the US, Russia and China, have been deeply researching the application of humanoid robots in the aerospace field. These robots are mainly used to replace humans in performing dangerous and complex operations, ensuring the safety of astronauts and improving the efficiency and success rate of space missions.

Other major application areas of humanoid robots are in border defense and lights-out factories, or smart factories.

"The continuous innovation and breakthroughs in AI technology in recent years have indeed provided humanoid robots with more powerful perception, decision-making, and execution capabilities. This allows humanoid robots to more accurately understand human language, recognize environmental information, and make more reasonable decisions and actions," Zhang said.

In the future, Zhang expects humanoid robots to have enormous potential in areas such as general hardware execution, dynamic adaptation and environmental integration.

How far is AGI?

The thriving progress of humanoid robots is drawing increasing attention from international tech giants. On March 18, nine humanoid robots were unveiled at NVIDIA's 2024 GTC. Tesla is also actively working on a humanoid robot named Optimus, and OpenAI, Microsoft, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos have made substantial investments in humanoid robot startup Figure AI. Additionally, Agility Robotics, backed by Amazon, has established the world's first large-scale humanoid robot production factory in Oregon, the US, capable of producing 10,000 two-legged robots annually.

A group of innovative and competitive Chinese companies have also emerged in the field of humanoid robots with increasing emphasis and investment in robot technology in China, leading to significant progress in the Chinese humanoid robot industry.

In March, the Beijing humanoid robot innovation center announced that it would soon release the first generation of a universal open humanoid robot body.

Among the nine robots showcased at the NVIDIA 2024 GTC, two were developed by Chinese companies, namely H1 from Hangzhou Yushu Technology and PX5 from Xiaopeng Pengxing.

The Global Times learned from Yushu Technology that H1 is a full-size humanoid robot capable of running, equipped with 360 panoramic depth perception. Currently, it can reach a speed of 3.3 meters per second, setting a world record for full-size electric humanoid robots, with a potential speed of up to 5 meters per second.

This robot boasts highly advanced full-body dynamic coordination capabilities, enabling it to dance in groups and execute backflips. As a result, NVIDIA opted to partner with Yushu to collectively propel the global advancement of AI robots. According to the company's response to the Global Times, NVIDIA, a frontrunner in GPU and AI chip technology, furnishes Yushu's robots with robust computing capabilities and comprehensive support in deep learning technology.

However, overall, the deep integration of AI and humanoid robots still faces significant challenges.

Zhang believes hardware challenges are a crucial obstacle. While we can achieve various complex functions and performance at the algorithm level, it is often difficult to achieve the desired output power and efficiency in actual robot hardware, he said.

This is mainly due to the numerous technical details and engineering challenges involved in hardware design and manufacturing, requiring continuous optimization and improvement, Zhang explained.

On the other hand, the current progress of AI technology is mainly limited to deepening and innovating at the logical level, with insufficient breakthroughs in thinking and emotional aspects. While the form of robots is malleable, the "spirit" of their internal thinking and emotions is still an unexplored frontier. Zhang believes it will take another 5-10 years to achieve a 70 percent similarity with human emotions.

At an economic forum held at Stanford University in March, Jensen Huang predicted that a general artificial intelligence that can pass human tests, or "human-like" artificial general intelligence (AGI, capable of performing all human intelligent behaviors), is likely to appear within five years. However, Huang also pointed out that achieving this goal is not without difficulties, as scientists still lack a unified definition of how the human mind operates, making it challenging for engineers to achieve the goal.

On April 8, Elon Musk said during a livestreamed interview on X that AI that is smarter than any one human will probably come around by the end of next year. Last year, he predicted that humans would "fully" achieve general artificial intelligence by 2029.

Some experts believe that with the continuous advancement of chips and algorithms, AI may eventually surpass human intelligence. However, Liu Wei, director of the human-machine interaction and cognitive engineering laboratory of the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, pointed out that AGI may be a false proposition. This is not because current AI systems have not reached the level of general intelligence, but because AI fundamentally performs and learns like humans.

The development of AGI faces three major bottlenecks: technical, biological, and social. The technical bottleneck lies in the need for AI systems to have higher computing power, more advanced algorithms, and more efficient data processing methods to achieve more complex and intelligent functions. The biological bottleneck mainly stems from our limited understanding of the cognitive capabilities and operation mechanisms of the human brain, requiring deeper research in neuroscience and cognition to achieve similar levels of intelligence. The social bottleneck includes the integration of AI systems with human society, such as cultural differences, ethical issues, privacy protection, etc., all of which are crucial factors affecting the development of AI, according to Liu.

"To overcome these bottlenecks, interdisciplinary cooperation and continuous innovation efforts are needed. Only by making breakthroughs in technology, biology and society can AGI move towards more mature and comprehensive development, but it remains extremely difficult, perhaps impossible after all," Liu said.

Safety and ethics concerns

In November 2023, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China issued guiding opinions on the innovation and development of humanoid robots, proposing to establish a preliminary innovation system for humanoid robots by 2025.

The document predicted that, by 2025, key technologies such as those related to robots' "brain, cerebellum, limbs" will achieve breakthroughs, ensuring the safe and effective supply of core components. The whole machine products will reach international advanced levels, achieve mass production, and be demonstrated in special, manufacturing, and civil service scenarios, exploring effective governance mechanisms and means. By 2027, China's comprehensive strength in humanoid robots will reach world-class levels, becoming an important new engine for economic growth.

The development of the humanoid robot industry, driven by both technology and policy, has entered the fast lane of development, but it also faces challenges in safety, social ethics, and legal norms. Some experts point out that in scenarios requiring close contact, such as in elderly care or assistance, where physical contact is needed, the safety and risk issues of humanoid robots cannot be underestimated. More research is needed by the industry and relevant regulatory authorities on the technical and application scenarios.

Zhang believes that when unexpected situations occur with humanoid robots in a home environment, the lack of clear legal definitions makes it difficult to determine responsibility and protect rights. Additionally, there is currently no mandatory system for certifying the eligibility of humanoid robot products, making it challenging to distribute products in large quantities and limiting the widespread application of humanoid robots. Therefore, it is essential to address and resolve these legal gaps as soon as possible to ensure the healthy and orderly advancement of humanoid robots in the future.

However, he firmly believes that with the continuous progress of technology and the gradual improvement of regulations, humanoid robots will demonstrate their unique charm in more fields, contributing more to the development of human society.

In 2023, the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, together with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and 10 other departments, issued the trial ethical review measures for science and technology.

According to the measures, carrying out scientific and technological activities should adhere to the unity of promoting innovation and preventing risks. It involves objectively evaluating and prudently handling uncertainties and risks of technological applications, following the principles of enhancing human well-being, respecting the rights of life, upholding fairness and justice, reasonably controlling risks, and maintaining openness and transparency in science and technology ethics. It is essential to comply with the Constitution, laws, and regulations of China, relevant provisions, and ethical norms of science and technology.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Exhibit on Missionaries to Assyrians in Persia

(left to right) Nancy Taylor, "The Life of John Haskell Shedd" book cover, Hooman Estelami. ( Presbyterian Historical Society) Through April 30, the Presbyterian Historical Society (PHS) is hosting a traveling exhibit, "Assyrians from Persia (Iran) to the United States, 1887-1923: Assyrian Education, American Missionaries, and the Search for a Home." In conjunction with the exhibit, PHS welcomed Dr. Hooman Estelami of Fordham University for an event and talk on March 21.

Using archival correspondence, diaries, biographies and photographs -- many from the PHS collections -- Estelami discussed the impact Presbyterian missionaries had on education, medicine and evangelism in the city of Urmia in northwestern Persia during the Qajar era. During his talk, Estelami also discussed how this community of missionaries helped protect the Assyrian population of the region in the years leading up to and including World War I.

Following the exhibit talk, PHS welcomed Estelami and descendants of John Haskell Shedd for a PHS LIVE webinar on April 4. John Haskell Shedd served as a missionary in Urmia beginning in 1859.

In 2023, Shedd descendants and Estelami worked together to publish a newly discovered manuscript, "The Life of John Haskell Shedd." Uncovered in family papers in 2020, the newly published book, available through Mazda Publishers, shows how Shedd methodically recorded his observations and experiences as he conducted missionary work among Christian populations in the Turco-Persian border region. Born in Mt. Gilead, Ohio, Shedd and his wife, Sarah Jane Dawes Shedd, helped establish the Assyrian Evangelical Church, strengthened diplomatic relations between Persia and America and constructed one of Persia's first modern medical colleges.

During the webinar, Estelami offered an abridged version of his presentation on Presbyterian missionaries to Urmia that was followed by a Q&A with PHS Executive Director Nancy J. Taylor and the Shedd descendants. The family members shared how the discovery of the papers revealed personal unexplored histories and talked about the importance of record-keeping in archival institutions like PHS.

Visitors to the Presbyterian Historical Society can view the traveling exhibit, Assyrians from Persia (Iran) to the United States, 1887-1923: Assyrian Education, American Missionaries, and the Search for a Home, through April 30. Recordings of the events have been made available on the PHS website.
Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photos: Getty

Donald Trump is about to face trial for conduct that happened eight years ago; if you have kids in college now, they may have been in elementary school when it all went down. The crime is a paperwork offense relating to how Trump and his businesses logged a series of perfectly legal (if unseemly) hush-money payments in their own internal records. The prosecutions star witness is a convicted perjurer and fraudster who openly spews vitriol at the defendant, often in grotesque terms, essentially for a living. The famously aggressive feds at the Southern District of New York passed on the case years ago, and current Manhattan district attorney Alvin Braggs predecessor could have indicted before he left office but did not. The charges are either misdemeanors or the lowest-level felonies (depending on how the jury decides the case), and the vast majority of defendants convicted of similar offenses are sentenced to probation and fines, not prison.

Donald Trump is about to face trial for deceiving the American voters and attempting to interfere in the 2016 presidential election. The world had just heard the infamous Access Hollywood grab em by the pussy tape, and Trumps campaign was reeling just weeks before Election Day. To keep his listing campaign from capsizing, Trump and his team paid off porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged extramarital affair and then labeled those payments legal expenses. Already the first American president or former president to face indictment, Trump could soon become the first to sustain a felony conviction, and its possible he could lose the 2024 election  and eventually wind up behind bars  as a result.

Both of the preceding paragraphs are true. Theres no opinion or editorializing there. Every statement is fact. Its all a matter of characterization. Witness, for example, the branding mini-war that has broken out around the case. Many media outlets and commentators refer to it in shorthand as the hush-money case. But the DAs office and its flacks insist on the wordier but (in their view) more descriptive the 2016 election-interference case. Either works in its own way.

Most criminal cases turn on binary questions: Did this defendant pull the trigger? Did that defendant know the duffel bag in his trunk contained kilos of heroin? Did the defendant intend to steal money from investors, or was she trying in good faith to rescue a failing business? But this case turns largely on issues of interpretation. Trump did what he did  but is it really a crime, and do we really care?

Lets start with the first question: Yes, this really is a crime if proven. But its vital to understand exactly what the charges are (and are not) because the tabloid aspect of it all  payoffs, politics, porn  tends to obscure the operative legal issues.

First: Paying hush money is not a crime. In fact, a hush-money agreement, though seedy, is legally no different from any other contract between private parties. So Trump knowing about the Daniels payoff  and he clearly did  is merely a starting point here and insufficient to prove anything criminal.

The charged New York State crime here is falsification of business records. The DA alleges Trump had the hush-money payments fraudulently recorded in his internal books as legal expenses (rather than, I dont know, hush money to porn star). If proved, thats merely a misdemeanor, a low-level crime virtually certain to result in a non-prison sentence. For comparison, under the New York code, falsification of business records has the same technical designation as shoplifting less than $1,000 of goods.

The proof on the falsification point is mixed. Trump plainly knew about the payments and signed some of the checks to reimburse his former attorney (turned star prosecution witness) Michael Cohen for the payoffs. But its not entirely clear whether Trump was involved in the actual logging of those payments in the internal records of his business  remember, thats the crime. In fact, when Cohen secretly recorded his then-client talking about a hush-money payment to another woman in 2016, Trump seems clueless about the accounting mechanism. Cohen explains to Trump, Ive spoken with Allen Weisselberg about how to set the whole thing up, referring to the Trump Organization CFO. Later, when Trump asks if theyll pay cash, Cohen responds, No, no, no, no, no. I got it. So Trumps team will argue that the lawyer (Cohen) and the accountant (Weisselberg)  not Trump  handled the booking of the payments. Cohen surely will testify that Trump was in on not just the payments but also the internal bookkeeping around them. The jury will sort it out.

If the jury finds Trump guilty on the business-records charge, the next question is whether he falsified the records in furtherance of some other crimes  primarily here, according to the DA, campaign-finance violations. Trump fudged the records, the theory goes, because he didnt want the alleged affair with Daniels to become public and harm his then-ongoing presidential campaign. Therefore, the hush-money payments were actually campaign contributions in excess of federal limits and improperly reported. If the DA prevails on this point, the crime becomes a class E felony, the lowest of five felony levels under New York law. While Trump would face a maximum of four years behind bars in this scenario, the vast majority of (but not all) first-time, nonviolent class E felons receive probationary sentences and fines but no prison time.

The received wisdom is that the Manhattan case is the least important, and will be the least impactful, of the four pending Trump indictments. The first part of that proposition is beyond reasonable dispute. Plainly, Trumps efforts to steal the 2020 election (as charged in DOJ special counsel Jack Smiths federal case and DA Fani Williss case in Fulton County, Georgia) and the former presidents retention of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago (as charged in Florida in Smiths other federal case) involve more serious conduct than falsification of hush-money records. Bragg himself said last year that broader justice may warrant another case going first. That doesnt necessarily mean the Manhattan charges are unserious in the grand scheme  but they plainly are the least serious of the four.

Yet even with its off-the-podium, fourth-place finish, the DAs case could make a modest but potentially decisive dent in the electorate. Recent polling by Politico and Ipsos is insightful, if a bit confounding: 36 percent of independents said a conviction in the Manhattan case would make them less likely to vote for Trump in 2024. (Note that independents and undecideds are not necessarily the same thing; I suspect many of these independents already have their mind made up about, and against, Trump.) Somehow, 9 percent of independents said a Trump conviction in the Manhattan case would make them more likely to support him. (Really? How?) Even if we net that out, a 25 percent swing away from Trump among independents is substantial, and in a razors-edge election, that number could well make all the difference.

With every passing day, it becomes more likely that this will be the only Trump criminal case tried to a verdict before Election Day. Smiths January 6 case sits in limbo and at the mercy of the Supreme Court, his classified-documents matter is foundering without a set trial date, and the Fulton County case is a mess with no chance for a preelection verdict.

Still, on balance, the odds favor the prosecution here. The healthy majority of criminal cases that go to trial result in conviction, and the parties will choose a jury from a decidedly anti-Trump pool of Manhattanites. The question, as ever with Trump, is whether the outcome  even one as stark as a criminal conviction  will make a dent.

This article originally appeared in the free CAFE Brief newsletter. You can find more analysis of law and politics from Elie Honig, Preet Bharara, Joyce Vance, and other CAFE contributors at CAFE.com
Photo: KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/AFP via Getty Images

As South Dakota governor Kristi Noem vies for a top position in a second Trump White House, she appears to be more focused on shoring up her vice-presidential chances than on making allies at home  to the point that she is no longer welcome in around 15 percent of the state she governs.

Over the past few months, Noem has made several comments about alleged drug trafficking on Native American reservation lands, infuriating a number tribes in the state. In February, the Oglala Sioux Tribe banned her from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, the fifth largest in the United States, for claiming without evidence that drug cartels were connected to murders on the reservation.

The ban did not dissuade her from making more incendiary remarks. In March, Noem said at a community forum in Winner that there are some tribal leaders that I believe are personally benefiting from cartels being there and thats why they attack me every day. When tribal leaders demanded an apology, Noem doubled down, issuing a statement to the tribes to banish the cartels. In response, the Cheyenne River Sioux forbade Noem from setting foot on their reservation, the fourth largest in the U.S. On Wednesday, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, the sixth largest in the U.S., banned her as well. On Thursday, a fourth tribe, the Rosebud Sioux, followed suit.

Noem has drawn the ire of tribes before this year. In 2019, the Oglala Sioux Tribe barred her from their land after she signed two bills that would allow for more serious prosecutions of protesters demonstrating over the Keystone XL pipeline. But with four out of nine reservations in South Dakota now banning her from entry, she is unwelcome on around 15 percent of the land in her vast state.

I dont believe its the tribes that are banishing me, Noem said on Thursday in response to the four bans. It is their tribal governments, and it is their presidents, their chairmen. I do not believe it is the community members. But Democratic state senator Shawn Bordeaux, a former Rosebud Sioux tribal-council member, told the Associated Press that her message about alleged cartel activity on South Dakota reservations is meant for an audience of one. She figures by saying something that might go national, maybe Trump will elevate her a little higher and pick her to be on his team, which is sad, he said.
Best in Class The Strategists carefully chosen and rigorously vetted flagship shopping guides. Learn about our methodology here, and find all our Best in Class guides here. Photo: Marcus McDonald

Buying pre-packaged multiples of cookware and kitchen tools can be tricky: The discounted pricing makes them appealing, but youll often end up with unused pieces. When it comes to knife sets specifically, my advice is to assess what you really need before you take the plunge, whether youre starting completely from scratch, redoing the basics of your collection, or simply want to add a handful of new blades to what you already own  then take your pick from there.

To curate this list, I first took into consideration the backbone of most great groupings: a sharp, durable chefs knife. With the exception of a couple of speciality packs (like steak knives), every set on this list includes one. Its the knife youre likely to turn to most often, and a quality one is a good indication that the others will be well made, too. Indeed, I have an entire guide dedicated to just chefs knives where youll see quite a bit of overlap in brands (from older established makers like Wusthof and Global to newer DTC companies like Material Kitchen and Made In).

But its not as simple as just assessing the major players. I looked at what else was included in the set, tested several myself, and then talked to nearly a dozen experts (chefs, cookbook authors, and recipe testers among them). What results is a purposefully varied curation: three pieces all the way up to 20-something, collections with only the basics, ones that come with sharpening tools or blocks and ones that dont. I also made sure that none have truly unnecessary pieces  but if youre unsure, my takeaway after doing this extensive research is that a more streamlined set is generally the way to go. You can always build from there.

Update on October 8, 2024: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

What were looking for Number of pieces Knife sets can come with anywhere from three pieces to more than 20. For this story, I (and the experts I spoke to) leaned significantly towards the smaller end of that spectrum. Im of the opinion that most of the time, it makes sense to buy a smaller core group  a chefs knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife  and then assess. Are you always wishing you had a second chefs knife so you dont have to clean in between tasks? Does it turn out youd benefit from a boning knife because you eat fish and chicken multiple days a week? From your core group, you can always add individual implements as you see what your real needs are. Here, Ive listed the number of pieces in a given set so you can get a sense of size at a glance, then detailed what each one is. European- or Japanese-style This classification is a bit of a tricky one because not every knife falls distinctly into one category or the other (and some knives dont fall into either at all). And yet these terms are still commonly used, the distinctions notable enough that its good to have a sense of the main characteristics of each  especially when it comes to the chefs knife in each of these sets. First of all, European-style is kind of a catch-all term that can also be called German-style, French-style, and Western-style. These are generally heavier with a thicker, more curved blade to facilitate rocking back and forth with the tip down on your cutting board. On the other hand, Japanese-style tend to be lighter with a thinner blade and straighter edge to facilitate extreme precision. To make things even more confusing, some Japanese companies make some European-style knives, and some European and American companies make Japanese-style knives. But here Ive denoted the style of each to the best of my ability, and then gone into more detail in the descriptions.

Best knife set overall

Wusthof Ikon 6-Piece Starter Knife Block Set $400 $400 Number of pieces: Six (paring knife, bread knife, chefs knife, honing steel, kitchen shears, knife block) | Style: European Wusthof is a classic company. Its the one that cook and Top Chef Canada host Eden Grinshpan was told to buy when she was in culinary school, the one that cookbook author Erin Gleeson registered for when she got married a decade ago and still uses, and the one that is preferred by multiple celebrity chefs with varying cooking styles (a quick Google search will tell you that both Ina Garten and Gordon Ramsay swear by them). Theyre just super high-quality and they really stand the test of time, Grinshpan says. I still have some of the pieces in my kitchen. Given that Wusthof is so time-tested and such a trusted brand among professionals, I knew they would be a fitting choice for our best overall pick. From there, I perused all their offerings and landed on this particular set for its lineup of pieces, which I think is perfectly well-rounded without being superfluous. It comes with a paring knife, a chefs knife, and a serrated knife  the only three that you really need when it comes down to performing most cooking tasks, like I explained before. But it also includes some helpful accessories: a wooden block to hold your blades safely, a honing steel to sharpen the edges, and a pair of come-apart kitchen shears (the come-apart makes them easy to clean). I use the scissors all the time, Gleeson says, for cutting everything from pizza and flatbreads to scallions. $400 at Amazon Buy $415 at Sur La Table Buy

Best less expensive knife set

Wusthof Gourmet 6-Piece Starter Knife Block Set $175 $195 now 10% off $175 Number of pieces: Six (paring knife, serrated utility knife, chefs knife, honing steel, kitchen shears, knife block) | Style: European This more affordable set from Wusthof has a similar setup. The paring knife is a half-inch smaller (which shouldnt make any noticeable difference for daily use), the serrated knife is three inches smaller (and intended to cut things like tomatoes, as opposed to crusty bread), and the block is made from a different variety of wood (beechwood instead of acacia). Most notably, though, the knives are stamped (cut from one large sheet of steel) instead of forged (made from a single bar of steel that is heated and then pounded into shape either by hand or machine). This makes them not quite as durable as they would be otherwise, but also much cheaper  and they can totally do the trick (and do it well), especially if you arent particularly hard on your knives. $175 at Amazon Buy

Best simple knife set

Material Kitchen The Trio of Knives $170 $170 Number of pieces: Three (paring knife, serrated utility knife, chefs knife) | Style: Japanese If you dont think youll use all the pieces in the bigger Wusthof sets above, this one will still have you covered with the three most basic, essential knives  ones that, to my mind, will comfortably take care of pretty much any cutting, chopping, slicing, and dicing youll ever need to do. In testing, I found the eight-inch chefs knife to be comfortable to hold because of the rounded handle shape. Its also balanced in weight, easy to rock back and forth to dice, as well as slice through hefty vegetables with an assured cut. The edge is super sharp, and though Ive only been using it for a few months, recipe developer and writer Rebecca Firkser says hers has stayed in great shape for several years. The paring knife has more of a curve than some others in my collection, making it particularly useful for intricate carving and tasks, like hulling strawberries. And notably, the serrated knife  which I think is the standout of the bunch  is significantly shorter than most, at six inches long. It wouldnt be substantial enough to cut through a round cake layer to even out the surface, but it can handle other tasks like slicing bread and tomato slices with even more control than a super long blade. $170 at Anthropologie Buy $195 at Material Buy

Best four-piece knife set

Made In the Knife Set $349 $349 Number of pieces: Four (paring knife, bread knife, chefs knife, nakiri knife) | Style: European Made In makes a relatively uncommon combination of knives  the three essentials I mentioned above, plus a nakiri knife, which I have found to be a useful addition. It looks a bit like a small cleaver, but is meant for cutting vegetables with an entirely straight edge. The blade is only six inches (two inches shorter than another nakiri I own that I find too big for nuanced tasks like chopping through cauliflower). This one, on the other hand, gives great control and is still hardy enough to hack away at a squash. I also really like the chefs knife, which is on the heavier side (eight ounces) without being burdensome. The weight feels good in my hand and helps guide the sharp edge seamlessly through whatever Im cutting. Culinary producer Kiano Moju first bought this set when she was stocking her culinary creative studio, a kitchen she needed to outfit from scratch. They hold really nicely, she says. When I was working at Sur La Table years ago, someone taught me how to cut with your thumb on the top of the spine, and it balances nicely if thats how you use your knives. Theyre well balanced, and not too heavy at all. Plus, theyre really cute. They come in red, which is my favorite. $349 at Made In Cookware Buy

Best knife set with steak knives included

J.A. Henckels 15-Piece Premium Quality Knife Set $150 $379 now 60% off $150 Number of pieces: 15 (paring knife, serrated utility knife, santoku knife, chefs knife, bread knife, set of six steak knives, honing steel, kitchen shears, knife block) | Style: European J.A. Henckels, the more affordable sister brand to Strategist-favorite Zwilling (they make a chefs knife, blender, and nonstick skillet we love), makes an all-encompassing knife set that I think is solid, especially for the price. The most notable feature is six matching serrated steak knives (not usually included in these collections) that Ive found are excellent at cutting through steak and pork chops without ripping or shredding the meat. It also includes the essentials: a paring knife, chefs knife, and bread knife. Plus theres a santoku knife (similar to a chefs but slightly smaller and thinner and therefore easier to wield when I perform more complicated tasks with subtler cuts), as well as a shorter serrated knife, perfect for slicing through tomatoes and baked goods. Though I was a bit skeptical of the quality since this is one of three sets on this list where the knives are stamped instead of forged (the others are the Wusthof Gourmet, above, and the collection of small Opinel knives, below), the handles feel tightly secured to the blades, and overall, they have a nice heft in my hand. They are a bit boxier, and therefore harder to get your palm gripped around in a comfortable position than the more rounded and smooth-edged handles I use regularly  but that seems a small issue for the value you get here. $150 at Wayfair Buy $150 at Amazon Buy

Photo: Emma Wartzman

Best steak knife set

Opinel Table Chic Steak Knives From $135 From $135 Number of pieces: Four (steak knives) | Style: European Ive long been a fan of Opinels well-priced, sharp, and elegant knives (youll find them in other Strategist stories and their set of paring knives is below). The stainless-steel blades of these have a straight (also called fine) edge, which slices through meat more cleanly than serrated ones Ive used in the past. (Even if a serrated knife is sharp, you have to saw back and forth a bit by nature.) Just as with high-quality chefs knives, these have a full-tang construction, meaning the blade runs through the handle, and theres a bolster in the center to connect them, which makes them super sturdy. Theyre also lightweight without feeling insubstantial, and the rounded handle is comfortable to hold. I appreciate that the shape leans modern but the wood still gives them a timeless look. I also tested Opinels Bon Appetit Steak Knives, which are $80 cheaper than the Table Chic set, but just as stylish and available in mixed colors. I didnt give them top billing because the straighter-edge handle means they dont feel quite as smooth to grip (though I will say, if I wasnt using them side by side, I likely wouldnt have any complaints). Theyre full-tang and feel secure, though without a bolster in the middle, so its possible they wouldnt last quite as long over many years of use. All in all, though, I certainly recommend them as a more affordable alternative. From $135 at Food52 Buy From $135 at Opinel Buy

Best knife set without a serrated knife

Global Classic 3-Piece Knife Set $180 Number of pieces: Three (paring knife, chefs knife, santoku knife) | Style: Japanese with some European influence Every other set on this list includes a serrated knife, but if youre looking to expand your collection without that particular blade, this Global collection fits the bill. (I once found myself in that exact predicament: I already own a serrated blade that I love and find to be plenty for the relatively infrequent tasks it is made for, but wanted a few other straight-edged blades for the high volume of cooking that goes on in my kitchen.) With this configuration, I got a 7-inch chefs knife (notably, our best overall chefs knife), a 5-inch utility knife, and a 3.5-inch paring knife. They all hold an ultrasharp edge, are lightweight enough to maneuver with ease but heavy enough to feel in control, and have a comfortable grip. In particular, I reach for the utility knife more than expected. Its size is right between the other two with more of an angled blade. This combination makes it useful for tasks that arent so delicate but still require some precision, like cutting into a head of broccoli. $180 at Williams Sonoma Buy $250 at Wayfair Buy

Best knife set without a paring knife

Hedley & Bennett Chefs Knife Set $195 $195 Number of pieces: Three (utility knife, bread knife, chefs knife) | Style: Japanese with some European influence This Hedley & Bennett trio comes with a chefs knife, a long and lean serrated knife and, as with the Global set, a utility knife  another set I recommend if youre looking to fill in particular holes or round out a current collection. I find the most striking feature of all three to be the weight. The serrated knife feels so light for the size. While I have another artisan Japanese serrated knife in my collection thats a bit shorter and heavier, this one has become my go-to for slicing through big loaves of bread. The utility knife, which is a bit longer than the Global with a straighter edge, feels nimble in my hand. It works to trim the fat off meat and even slice off fish skin. The look of the knives is sleek, too. They come in green, white, and black, each with brass rivets. Chef Melissa King and Zoya Roya, founder of Fysh Foods, both love the chefs knife, too, describing it as well-balanced, with Roya adding that ing its not too heavy to handle but heavy enough that it still glides through whatever youre cutting with ease. $195 at Hedley & Bennett Buy

Best less-expensive knife set without a paring knife

Misen Essentials Knife Set $219 Number of pieces: Three (paring knife, bread knife, chefs knife) | Style: Japanese and European For another set with a chefs knife, serrated knife, and utility knife, consider Misen. I really like these knives as value buys, says Jeff Strauss, owner and chef of Jeffs Table and Oy Bar in Los Angeles. One of the things knife nerds talk about is steel hardness, and these are on the harder end of bendy, which is a sweet spot. As he explains it, theyre hard enough to sharpen easily and they hold an edge very well. But theyre not so hard that they move in a funky way that can take some getting used to. You can feel the difference with a super hard blade, and even sometimes break it if you make the wrong movements. I know a bunch of pro chefs who use these, he says. I have six of them. You dont have to be too, too precious. $219 at Misen Buy

Best paring knife set

Opinel Essential Small Kitchen Knife Set From $42 From $42 Number of pieces: Four (paring knife, vegetable knife, serrated paring knife, stationary peeler) | Style: European This isnt what you would call a traditional knife set: The collection comes with a classic paring knife, two serrated paring knives (one with more pronounced teeth, one with subtler teeth and a curved tip), and a bonus vegetable peeler  all in all, a useful grouping. A new and sharp peeler and extra paring knife, if you already own one, are both good to have around, and the serrated versions come in surprisingly handy. Ive been using the serrated ones to cut cherry tomatoes all summer long. Each knife is notably lightweight and therefore prime for delicate tasks, as well as for taking on the go (Ive stashed the classic paring knife in my bag to take to the park to cut into cheese and fruit). Andrew Brady, chef and partner at the Boston-area restaurants Dear Annie and Field and Vine, has several of them in his work kitchens at all times because theyre so versatile. Smaller knives tend to be made more cheaply, he says, but these are sharp. He calls the dramatically ridged model a serious workhorse thats great for peppers and chilis, garlic, and shallots, or small foods that still benefit some serious serrated power, he says. The subtler ridged one, which he uses for more delicate tasks like cutting through tarts and cherry tomatoes, also comes with a hook-like shape at the tip of the knife. That feature is useful for handheld tasks where you need to get into a piece of food, like cutting the button off a Brussels sprout or the stem off a strawberry, he says. From $42 at Food52 Buy From $42 at Opinel Buy

A small-but-mighty serrated knife. Photo: Emma Wartzman

Our experts

 Andrew Brady, chef and partner at Dear Annie and Field and Vine

 Rebecca Firkser, recipe developer and writer

 Erin Gleeson, cookbook author

 Eden Grinshpan, cook and Top Chef Canada host

 Melissa King, chef

 Kiano Moju, culinary producer

 Zoya Roya, founder of Fysh Foods

 Jeff Strauss, owner and chef of Jeffs Table and Oy Bar

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The world's largest crude oil exchange-traded fund has bled over $2 billion in less than a year. And it's not due to investors finding greener pastures elsewhere with other ETFs; it's the siren call of soaring prices that's prompting this mass exodus.

The WisdomTree Brent Crude Oil exchange-traded commodity had assets under management of some $2.5 billion last summer, according to Bloomberg. Now, the publication reports, this is down to $396 million, with withdrawals accelerating over the past few days.

In that, withdrawals seem to be following price trends. Brent earlier this month topped $90 per barrel and, after a short pause earlier this week, is back above that threshold again following the latest Israeli strike on the Gaza Strip amid reports about a possible ceasefire.

While it is true that prices are currently driven higher mainly by geopolitical events, fundamentals are also at play. A growing number of forecasters are updating their predictions for benchmarks this year on expectations of resilient demand and increasingly tighter supply. And investors are following the trend.

Even those who have not sold their ETF holdings in order to invest more directly in the rally are benefitting. That same WisdomTree Brent Crude Oil ETC generated returns of over 13% during the first quarter of the year as opposed to an average 8.8% gain in the S&P 500. Related: OPEC Expects Solid Global Oil Demand This Summer

The WisdomTree exchange-traded commodity became the world's largest oil fund at the beginning of last year. The fund saw inflows of over $1 billion, which poured in as the deflation in oil prices that had begun in late 2022 extended into the new year. Now, the trend has reversed and it has reversed strongly.

The WisdomTree Brent Crude Oil ETC is not the only fund seeing outflows. The U.S. Oil Fund, which used to be the world's biggest oil fund before the WisdomTree inflows last year and is now the world's biggest oil fund once again, also saw a flurry of investor exits as benchmarks climbed higher. According to Bloomberg, the fund's assets under management currently stand at $1.3 billion, down from some $5 billion during the pandemic.

In further evidence that oil makes money, the Middle East is about to become the only region in the world with three trillion-dollar sovereign wealth funds. The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority is worth $993 billion, Bloomberg reported in March, while the Saudi Public Investment Fund and the Kuwait Investment Authority are breathing down its neck.

Meanwhile, investment in transition-related stocks is on the decline, according to data reported by Reuters. The S&P Global Clean Energy Index is down by 10% since the start of the year. In comparison, the S&P 500 Energy Index, which comprises Big Oil names, has gained 16.3%.

The data shows that investors are growing wary of all the promises made by transition advocates as evidence mounts that these were not based on due diligence. Wind and solar stocks suffered a crash last year when this first became clear. Now, we are witnessing a continued awakening among investors to the challenges and the realistic potential of transition technology and alternative energy sources.

"With conventional energy having its own bull run, I think the alternative funds will struggle for the foreseeable future, and we shall see what the election brings," the managing director of capital markets at Phoenix Capital Group Holdings told Reuters.

The comment summarizes the challenging situation for alternative energy investment and highlights the rebound of interest in oil and gas, much to the chagrin of decision-makers on both sides of the Atlantic. In both Europe and the U.S., things can get even worse for the transition after the respective electionsin June for European Parliament and in November for U.S. President. It will certainly be an interesting year in energy.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Tehran is walking things back with a choreographed PR campaign that has shifted focus to building a nuclear bomb. Its been a wildly successful campaign that has generated end-of-the-world headlines suggesting that Iran is only days away from having nuclear weapons capabilities. That was the narrative earlier on Thursday. Later on Thursday, Iran seemed to walk things back even further, with its Foreign Minister telling Germany that it would respond to Iran in an appropriate and limited way (as reported by Axios, citing an unnamed source). Another unnamed source linked to U.S. intelligence told Reuters that Iran has made it clear it is not planning something escalatory and would use its proxies against Israel.

But Tehran is already showing signs that its attempting to back down without losing face. It would not survive a direct attack on Israel and all that would entail in terms of blowback. The only way it would potentially survive the aftermath of an attack on Israel would be if this becomes an all-out regional war scenario, but the allies game is a tricky one in the region right now, and the GCC countries will find themselves in quite a bind.

Markets were extremely jittery this week, awaiting a retaliatory attack by Iran following the Israeli strike on Tehrans embassy in Syria, which killed a key Iranian general and other diplomats/military personnel. Israel is preparing for an attack, both at home and in proxy venues.

Markets were extremely jittery this week, awaiting a retaliatory attack by Iran following the Israeli strike on Tehrans embassy in Syria, which killed a key Iranian general and other diplomats/military personnel. Israel is preparing for an attack, both at home and in proxy venues.

But Tehran is already showing signs that its attempting to back down without losing face. It would not survive a direct attack on Israel and all that would entail in terms of blowback. The only way it would potentially survive the aftermath of an attack on Israel would be if this becomes an all-out regional war scenario, but the allies game is a tricky one in the region right now, and the GCC countries will find themselves in quite a bind.

Tehran is walking things back with a choreographed PR campaign that has shifted focus to building a nuclear bomb. Its been a wildly successful campaign that has generated end-of-the-world headlines suggesting that Iran is only days away from having nuclear weapons capabilities. That was the narrative earlier on Thursday. Later on Thursday, Iran seemed to walk things back even further, with its Foreign Minister telling Germany that it would respond to Iran in an appropriate and limited way (as reported by Axios, citing an unnamed source). Another unnamed source linked to U.S. intelligence told Reuters that Iran has made it clear it is not planning something escalatory and would use its proxies against Israel.

This takes the pressure off of Tehran to launch an attack of greater magnitude than Israels (unclaimed) attack on Irans embassy in Damascus. Our assessment is that Iran will not directly attack Israel and that the nuclear shift is how its getting out of it and hoping to still look strong. Tehran may move to attack Israel by proxy, as both have been doing extensively in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, the Red Sea, etc. Several days ago, Tehran said Israeli embassies were not safebut where, and who will allow it? For now, this conflict is likely to stay on proxy terrain.
Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy installations this week took out the entire power-generating capacity of Trypilska TPP, the largest power plant in the Kyiv region (also supplying three other regions). Ukraine says Russia launched over 80 drones and missiles at energy installations, and that the Ukrainian air force shot down around 60 of those. This is Russias retaliation for Ukraines persistent attacks on its

The Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline would effectively allow Baghdad to gain full control of Kurdish oil once it is produced. Baghdad will force foreign oil companies who have contracts with the Kurds to renegotiate with Baghdad to sell their oil through the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline instead, which will completely cut the Kurds out and eventually make it impossible for foreign companies to operate there. Incidentally, the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline has been offline since ISIS damaged it in 2014, and the Kurdish Peshmerga forces were largely responsible for pushing ISIS back from the region.

Baghdad is repairing the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline, which has not been operable for ten years and hopes to use it to export some 350,000 bpd to Turkey as soon as this month. Essentially, that means that Baghdad has no intention of agreeing to the restart of the Kurdish pipeline to Turkey which has been shut down for over a year now as the Iraqi federal government and the Iraqi Region of Kurdistan wrangle over control of Kurdish oil resources.

Politics, Geopolitics & Conflict

Baghdad is repairing the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline, which has not been operable for ten years and hopes to use it to export some 350,000 bpd to Turkey as soon as this month. Essentially, that means that Baghdad has no intention of agreeing to the restart of the Kurdish pipeline to Turkey which has been shut down for over a year now as the Iraqi federal government and the Iraqi Region of Kurdistan wrangle over control of Kurdish oil resources.

The Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline would effectively allow Baghdad to gain full control of Kurdish oil once it is produced. Baghdad will force foreign oil companies who have contracts with the Kurds to renegotiate with Baghdad to sell their oil through the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline instead, which will completely cut the Kurds out and eventually make it impossible for foreign companies to operate there. Incidentally, the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline has been offline since ISIS damaged it in 2014, and the Kurdish Peshmerga forces were largely responsible for pushing ISIS back from the region.

Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy installations this week took out the entire power-generating capacity of Trypilska TPP, the largest power plant in the Kyiv region (also supplying three other regions). Ukraine says Russia launched over 80 drones and missiles at energy installations, and that the Ukrainian air force shot down around 60 of those. This is Russias retaliation for Ukraines persistent attacks on its oil refineries that have succeeded in reducing Russias refining capacity if not significantly, then enough to make markets nervous and prompt a rebuke from Washington. One Ukrainian attack on a refinery reached over 800 miles beyond its border with Russia.

Russia and Kazakhstan remain threatened by severe flooding after a dam burst on the Ural River, forcing over 100,000 people to evacuate and leading to the shut-down of Russias Orsk oil refinery. The refinery handles 6 million metric tons of oil per year.

Discovery & Development

Libyas NOC made a new discovery in the Alihib field, with the new well producing 16.8 million cubic feet of nat gas and 626 bpd of oil.

TotalEnergies and its partners, Exxon, Santos, and JX Nippon, have pushed back FID for its LNG project in Papua until 2025. The project has already faced numerous delays. Papua LNG will have a liquefaction capacity of as much as 6 million tonnes per annum.

TotalEnergies is also acquiring the 20% interest in the Dorado leases in Texas from the Lewis Energy Group. The project is operated by EOG Resources and is in the Eagle Ford. The project will increase TotalEnergies nat gas production by 50 million cubic feet per day this year.

Deals, Mergers & Acquisitions

BP is considering a sale of oil and gas assets in Trinidad and Tobago to Perenco. The assets up for possible sale include the Amherstia, Cashima, and Immortelle fieldsall of which have been producing for over 20 years and are now on the decline. BP produces 1.3 billion cubic feet per day in Trinidad and Tobago, which is exported mostly to Europe and Latin America in the form of LNG.

Lukoil has purchased a 50% stake in the Kalamkas Sea project from KazMunayGas for $200 million. KMG and Lukoil will produce oil from the Kalamkas Sea, Khazar, and Auezov. The deal was struck in February 2023 and completed in September 2023 but wasnt disclosed until Lukoils annual report was released.

Shell and Saudi Aramco are in price negotiations to buy trading firm Pavilion Energy from Temasek in a deal valued at a possible $2 billion. Aramco is looking to boost its LNG production and has been purchasing stakes in LNG projects overseas. Shell, who is already a global LNG player, cant seem to get enough of the LNG market as it sees its role in the energy transition as a crucial one.

A consortium of Trafigura and Entara LLC known as Rhone Energies is negotiating with ExxonMobils ESSO SAF to acquire its Fos-sur-Mer refinery in France along with its Toulouse and Villette de Vinne terminals. Traifuga said as part of the deal it would enter into a 10-year oil supply and product offtake agreement. Fos-sur-Mer has a nameplate capacity of 140,000 bpd.
Chevrons acquisition of Guyana superstar Hess could be delayed until next year thanks to Exxon Mobils arbitration case, Hess said in a Friday securities filing.

Hess said in the filing that the $53 billion merger could be delayed until 2025. The deal was originally supposed to close this summer.

Both Exxon and CNOOC have brought cases against the acquisition, arguing that, as current partners with Hess in the prolific Stabroek block, they legally have the right of first refusal.

In October, Chevron said that it would purchase Hess Corporation in an all-stock transaction valued at a whopping $53 billion. The deal would give Chevron a bite at some of the worlds most coveted oil reserves in Guyanas Stabroek block.

But in February, Exxon raised a challenge to Chevrons takeover, claiming it had the first right of refusal on the stake that Chevron would absorb with the Hess acquisition. CNOOC quickly mounted a similar challenge. Chevron has argued that the right of first refusal does not apply because the deal is for the acquisition of the entirety of Hess, and not just for its Guyana assets.

Guyana has become a hotspot for oil exploration and development in recent years after Exxon and Hess found more than 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent offshore the South American country. Exxon, leading a consortium with Hess and CNOOC, is currently producing all the crude oil in Guyanathe worlds newest oil-producing nation.

Exxon holds a 45% stake in the Stabroek block, with Hess holding a 30% stake. Production from Stabroek is on track to soon reach 620,000 bpd, with some estimating this to rise to 1.2 million bpd by 2027.

Without Hesss share of Guyanas assets in the mix, Chevron is unlikely to be interested in a Hess acquisition at all.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Chinese imports of crude oil fell in March by 6% compared to the same month last year as first-quarter crude imports were stable year-over-year amid high volumes of Russian crude flowing to China.

China imported 49.05 million metric tons of crude oil last month, which is equal to around 11.55 million barrels per day (bpd), per data from the Chinese General Administration of Customs cited by Reuters.

While lower by 6.2% compared to the March 2023 volumes of over 12 million bpd  when China was recovering from the eased Covid-related restrictions  the imports last month were higher than the January-February average and contributed to a 0.7% increase in Chinese crude imports in January to March 2024.

Chinese crude oil imports jumped by 5.1% in January and February compared to the same two months last year, as fuel demand rose during the Lunar New Year holiday.

But the slight increase in Chinese crude imports in the first quarter shouldnt be viewed as a sign that Chinas inconsistent economic performance over the past year is over.

In fact, much of the increase in Chinese crude oil imports in recent weeks has been due to cheap abundant flows of Russian crude, which  hampered en route to India by the U.S. sanctions  has found a home in the worlds top crude oil importer, analysts say.

China was expected to import record-high oil volumes from Russia in March as it is mopping up cargoes shunned by India, tanker-tracking data from Kpler showed last month. China was expected to welcome in March as much as 1.7 million bpd of crude from Russia as refiners were on track to import record-high volumes of the Russian grade Sokol, from which India has been shying away recently.

Chinas Russian crude imports surged to an all-time high in March, masking the underlying sluggishness in overall demand, Emma Li, senior market analyst at Vortexa, said last week.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The drone attacks from Ukraine on Russian refineries could disrupt fuel markets globally, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Friday, estimating that up to 600,000 barrels per day (bpd) of Russias refinery capacity could be offline in the second quarter.

Global markets rely on Russian exports of diesel, naphtha and jet fuel, while refining systems in Asia absorb substantial quantities of the countrys straight-run and cracked residue to boost upgrading unit feedstocks, the IEA said in its monthly Oil Market Report today, as carried by Bloomberg.

The agency lowered by 160,000 bpd its forecast of global refinery throughputs this year and now sees these rising by 1 million bpd to 83.3 million bpd, due to lower Russian refinery runs, unplanned outages in Europe, and still-tepid Chinese activity.

Russian refinery outages have added to the unease in the global product market, the IEA said in the report.

In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up attacks on oil refineries in Russia, which have reduced Russian refining capacity, and which, reportedly, have the White House concerned about rising international prices.

The United States has repeatedly urged Ukraine to halt its drone attacks on Russian oil refineries due to Washingtons assessment that the strikes could lead to Russian retaliation and push up global oil prices, the Financial Times reported last month, citing sources familiar with the exchange.

According to Reuters estimates, the amount of Russian oil refining capacity that has been taken offline due to Ukrainian drone strikes is 14% of Russias total refining capacity.

Due to refinery damage as a result of the drone attacks, Russias gasoline production fell by 12% in the last week of March compared to the February average, Russian daily Kommersant reported last week, quoting the Federal State Statistics Service, Rosstat. The domestic market hasnt felt the impact, yet, also thanks to higher fuel imports from Belarus, Kommersant notes.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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U.S. and Venezuelan government officials met secretly this week ahead of the expiry of oil sanction relief next week.

The meeting, in Mexico City, discussed the possibility of reforms in Venezuela, Bloomberg reported citing unnamed sources, with a focus on elections.

The United States granted a six-month oil sanction waiver to Caracas last year after the two sides discussed election reforms that would have given Venezuelas opposition a chance in the upcoming vote in July.

However, just months later, the Maduro government effectively banned the oppositions leader, Maria Corina Machado, from running for office, prompting threats from Washington that the sanctions would snap back.

Following the sanction waiver last October, Venezuela had planned to expand its oil production from below 800,000 bpd to over 1 million bpd. The prospects of that happening have dimmed since then as the threat of the return of sanctions hung over PDVSAs head. Analysts have also forecast a higher risk of domestic fuel shortages if the sanctions snap back on April 18.

The easing of the sanctions helped Venezuela boost its oil export revenues, with expectations for this year at $20 billion, according to Reuters estimates from January, versus a total of $12 billion in oil revenues for last year. If the sanctions are reimposed, however, the outlook will change drastically.

Bloomberg cited one Venezuela-based analyst as estimating the potential losses at $2 billion for this year alone. Another said that the lifting of the sanctions for six months has boosted the countrys oil revenues by an additional $740 million.

The return of sanctions will also affect the U.S. as it would put an end to heavy crude imports from Venezuela. These started flowing to Gulf Coast refineries once again after the sanction suspension entered into effect in October. The suspension expires on April 18.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Eskom, the state-owned utility of South Africa, is holding talks with the government on ways to attract public and private financing of the equivalent of $21 billion for a major expansion of the power grid to accommodate an expected rise in renewable energy, the company told Bloomberg on Friday.

Eskom has estimated that it needs $21 billion (390 billion South African rand) to fund its plan to build nearly 9,000 miles of new power lines over the next decade, which would be more than triple the miles of transmission lines it has installed in the past decade.

Currently, coal is the major energy source for South Africa, accounting for around 80 percent of the countrys energy mix. The country is also the worlds fifth-largest coal exporter.

But South Africa is going through a significant energy crisis with daily rolling power cuts that are crippling the economy as state firm Eskom continually fails to boost generation capacity to keep pace with growing demand in recent years.

Eskom is currently in ongoing discussions with key government ministries on the funding of the South Africas transmission capital-expenditure requirements, the company told Bloomberg via email in response to queries.

Some of the money could come from the so-called Just Transition plan that wealthy nations have pledged to back with funding, according to Eskom.

The state firm is also considering tapping private funding, it said.

The U.S., the UK, France, Germany, and the EU are mobilizing an initial $8.5 billion to catalyze the first phase of South Africas Just Energy Transition (JET) Investment Plan as part of a long-term Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) signed in 2021.

Under the just transition plan, South Africa will invest in job retraining and reskilling, cash payments to support displaced workers while they find new employment, and redevelopment of former coal mines and coal power plants as clean energy production sites.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden said U.S. defense commitment to Pacific allies was "ironclad" as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. and the Philippines have had a mutual treaty in place for more than 70 years. Biden's reinforcement of the American commitment comes in the midst of persistent skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea.

"The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad," Biden said as he began three-way talks at the White House with Kishida and Marcos. "As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty."

The White House billed the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines as a potent response to Chinas attempts at intimidation and said it would send a message that China is the outlier in the neighborhood, according to an administration official.

The White House said Biden and Marcos during the talks underscored their commitment to international law in the South China Sea" and reaffirmed their countries' treaty obligations to defend each other.

The leaders also announced joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific this year, a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in waters near the South China Sea. The U.S. Coast Guard will welcome Philippine and Japanese coast guard members onto a U.S. Coast Guard vessel during the patrol for training, according to White House.

The summit came a day after Biden held one-on-one talks with Kishida and feted the Japanese premier with a glitzy state dinner at the White House, a diplomatic honor meant to recognize Tokyo's growing clout on the global stage.

It was also designed to send a clear signal that the Democratic administration remains determined to build a "latticework" of alliances in the Indo-Pacific even as it grapples with the Israel-Hamas war and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Biden also hosted Marcos for a private meeting at the White House ahead of the scheduled three-way talks.

"Today's summit is an opportunity to define the future that we want and how we intend to achieve it together," Marcos said.

The summit also had a large economic component with several major U.S.-based companies  including Meta, UPS and Greenbrier Energy  announcing investments in the Philippines, administration officials said. The new deals came after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited Manila last month to announce more than $1 billion in new investment by American companies in the Philippines.

Biden also announced that the three nations will launch a a new economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment that would help develop clean energy, port, agriculture and other projects in the country.

The United States, the United Kingdom and Japan on Wednesday announced joint military exercises in the Indo-Pacific in 2025. That followed the Pentagon revealing this week that the U.S., the U.K. and Australia are considering including Japan in the AUKUS partnership, a grouping launched in 2021 that aims to equip Australia with nuclear-powered and conventionally armed submarines.

Kishida visited Capitol Hill on Thursday for an address to U.S. lawmakers that focused on the need to strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Japan at a time of tension in the Asia-Pacific and skepticism in Congress about U.S. involvement abroad.

He offered concern about "the undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be."

But China loomed large over Thursday's talks at the White House.

Relations between China and the Philippines have been tested by skirmishes involving the two nations' coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

The "gray-zone" harassment by China included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim. In 1999, Manila intentionally ran the World War IIera ship aground on the shoal, establishing a permanent military presence there.

Biden, in a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, raised concerns about China's operations in the South China Sea, including efforts to impede the Philippines, which the U.S. is treaty-obligated to defend, from resupplying its forces on the Second Thomas Shoal.

Chinese officials bristled at criticism over their actions and blamed the U.S. for exacerbating tensions.

No one should violate Chinas territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Thursday.

Biden made improving relations with the Philippines a priority since Marcos became the country's president in June 2022.

The relationship was in a difficult place when Marcos took office. Human rights groups said predecessor Rodrigo Duterte's "war on drugs" resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.

Marcos, the son and namesake of the country's former dictator, as a candidate said he would look to pursue closer ties with China. But he's increasingly drifted toward Washington amid concerns about China's coercive action.
Air Peace is a Nigerian project, and every Nigerian should be proud of their prowess. Our government must do everything to ensure that this national project succeeds. It must not fail, like Arik. And, it must not sail like the Titanic. Air Peace must succeed and go ballistic for the sake of Nigeria.

However, the biggest threat to Air Peace is not the foreign airlines that have now launched a price war against the airlines, no the Nigerian bureaucracy that is not always well oiled. No.

The peril in overshadowing Air Peace today is Allen Onyema, its CEO. Mr. Onyema talks too much for a CEO. In fact, he is more of a spokesperson and a brand ambassador than a CEO, and he is wearing himself too thin and making unforced errors that will arm his enemies.

In an interview with Arise TV on Monday, April 1. 2024, Mr. Onyema said We are planning to hit New York or Houston towards the end of the year, because we are bringing in more 777s. As I speak to you, my staff, theyre in California, the engineering technical services department, theyre in California inspecting some three 777s we want to acquire, we want to buy. So, if we could get them in the next two or three months, then of course, we are good to go anywhere.

For a man who is taking on the big global airlines and complaining that they are trying to run him out of business, Mr. Onyema is somewhat naive. Why talk about your plans?

I love Air Peace. I want them to succeed. But, how many 777s can he buy from Boeing? Maybe five. Probably ten. Those he is accusing of fighting him order hundreds in a tear. In 2022 alone, British Airways ordered 50 Boeing 737 MAX for $6.25 billion, as well as 11 Airbus A320neo aircraft and three A321neos worth $1.7 billion. That is just for one year alone. And from one airline.

Collectively, this European cartel of airlines can approach Boeing or Airbus to frustrate Air Peace. What was the point of Onyekas revelations? The public is already happy with you for the Lagos-Gatwick feat. Why expose your plans? Onyema and Air Peace are already popular. What they need now is a vision to attract provision and avoid division.

And again, a week ago, Mr. Onyema was on television, again. And this time, he says:

When you say what has it been like, right from the day we published our fares, even that inaugural flight got sold out within days.

It got sold out in days and even up to September.

Then, four days later he was at the same station crying to the government and Nigerians to stick with him as the foreign airlines cabal had launched a price war against him for recent flights on the Lagos-London route. Well, if his first assertion were true, then Air Peace would not be bothered about a price war for ticket prices in April-May. They would have already sold out those tickets.

Perhaps Mr. Onyema may want to learn how to defeat foreign exploiters from Dr. Mike Adenuga.

How many times have you seen Dr. Adenuga in the news? Or giving an interview? Or defending himself or his brand? Or even accepting the Silverbird Man of the Year award when he won? The answer is never.

But no corporation in Nigeria advertises like Glo. Nobody. Bar none. And Glos adverts cant be ignored. They are unputdownable! They grab you by overwhelming your senses.

And if you come after them, the way some have tried and failed, they launch a blitzkrieg of well articulated narratives that will make you regret the day the devil put the thought of fighting Adenuga into your mind.

That is how you do it. If your opponents and rivals cannot preempt you, then they cannot forestall you.

Dr. Adenuga had bragging rights when he was launching the first of its kind in Africa and the developing world Glo 1 submarine cable, which ran from Bude, a seaside rural town in north Cornwall, England and traversed seventeen countries, including Ghana, before terminating in Nigeria.

And what was the result? When EVERY other network was down due to the Red Sea submarine cable sabotage, ONLY Glo was up. While MTN is declaring a major loss, Glo is celebrating a major profit.

If Dr. Adenuga had gone on CNN to brag that such a wonder was in the offing, it would have been just too easy for his competitors to frustrate the project. By the time they knew about it, it was already too late.

The summary of what Mr. Onyema can assimilate from Dr. Adenuga is this: Build in silence and let your actions speak for themselves, or you will deliver activity instead of productivity.

Mr. Onyema may want to be seen more and heard less. Perhaps he could consider separating ownership from speakership.

Air Peace may consider hiring a professional PR person. Nigerians may have noticed the abrupt and positive change from the propaganda of the Buhari administration to the proper agenda of the Tinubu government. The reason is not far-fetched. Lai Mohammed is gone. The new Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris Malagi, is a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, as well as a leading newspaper publisher.

Onyema should stop talking too often before he becomes a Lai and get a qualified spox.

Mr. Onyema must know by now that he is in the crosshairs of the foreign airlines mafia, and when you are soaked in petrol, you must not hug the limelight, lest a spark set you on fire.

And one final thing Mr. Onyema should emulate from the Bull is branding. Onyema believes he is the big picture, so he is not seeing the big picture. Follow the Glo template. Spend on advertising. Use Nigerian stars. Project them on CNN. Stop thinking locally and acting erratically. Instead, think globally and act strategically.

I have never met Dr. Mike Adenuga, yet I have been mesmerised by the emancipation of the Glo brand tight from inception and conception. And now I know why.

I launched the #FreeLeahSharibu campaign at Boris Johnsons office at Parliament in Westminster. While there, I met one of the finest brand specialists on Earth. You are from Nigeria?, he asked me. I responded in the affirmative. And then he tells me how Dr. Adenuga flew him into Nigeria 48 times to brainstorm, sometimes till 3 AM, about how to take the Glo brand into orbit.

Now( that is dedication! Onyema should take a cue and move from glorification to dedication.
No fewer than eight Nigerians have been sentenced to death in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates(UAE) for robberies at money exchanges and cash machines(ATMs) across the emirate in December 2016.

The ninth Nigerian, found guilty for possession of stolen money was sentenced to six months imprisonment.

He will be deported after serving his prison term.

The Gulf News reported that the Nigerian denied the charge against him and said that one of the accuseds brothers asked him to transfer Dh60,000 to an account in Nigeria.

All the convicted Nigerians were not identified by both the Gulf News and Khaleej Times, all local newspapers, which reported the trial.

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Zainab

President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, to facilitate the release of Zainab Aliyu, a student who was wrongly arrested for drugs trafficking in Saudi Arabia.

Miss Aliyu, a student of Maitama Sule University, Kano, was arrested by Saudi authorities on December 26, 2018 for allegedly travelling with a luggage containing unlawful substance believed to be tramadol.

The suspect had travelled through the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA, for Lesser Hajj with her mother, Maryam, and sister, Hajara.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed on Monday, April 29, 2019 that the government was already working on her release, alongside two other people with a similar situation.

@MBuhari has directed AGF to take necessary action. We are making good progress. She will be back, along with 2 others in same situation, she responded to a Twitter user.

Each case on its own merit. Zainub (sic) committed no crime. She must not be punished for an offense she didnt commit. We will ensure justice as directed by @MBuhari, she added.

Recall that a petition filed by Miss Aliyus family later led the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, to uncover a cartel at MAKIA which specialised in planting illicit drugs in travellers luggage.

The arrest of seven members of the cartel led to the discovery that the tramadol-bearing luggage was planted on Miss Aliyu without her knowledge.

Based on the investigation carried out, it has been revealed that the said Zainab Habibu Aliyu is not the owner of the second luggage tagged in her name, an NDLEA report read.
Ogbonnaya Onu Who Passed On At Age 72, As Peter Obi Eulogizes His Contributions To Education, Nation building

The death of former Minister of Science and Technology during President Muhammadu Buharis regime, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu came to many as a surprise.

Being the first civilian governor of Abia State, he passed away this morning at a hospital in Abuja at the age of 72, according to BBC Igbo.

Dr. Onu was a distinguished scientist and educator before entering the political arena. He served as a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt before transitioning to national politics during the aborted civilian rule transition under President Ibrahim Babangida in the early 1990s.

He secured the governorship of Abia in 1992 when his home State, Ebonyi was still part of Abia State. However, his term was cut short due to the military takeover led by General Sani Abacha in 1994, which ousted the civilian administration of Ernest Shonekan.

Despite the interruption to his governorship, Dr. Onu remained a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. He contested for president on multiple occasions and most recently resigned as Minister of Science and Technology under President Buhari to participate in the 2022 presidential primaries.

Reacting to his demise, the presidential candidate of Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi in the 2023 election has expressed deep sadness over the death.

Obi in his X handle @peterObi said, It is with deep sadness that I received the reports of the death of my dear elder brother; the first civilian governor of Abia State and former minister of science, technology and innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.

Dr Onu was a gentleman par excellence, a patriotic and detribalised Nigerian who served the nation in different capacities. His contributions to our educational growth as a lecturer and author remain commendable.

Dr Onu was a leader who stood for peace and progress of the nation. He pursued justice and courageously stood up for equity and good governance. He was committed to the development of the nation.

As one who understood the critical need to move our nation from consumption to production, he pursued many initiatives to boost local production for the development of the nation.

His death is, undoubtedly, a huge loss to the nation. May God console his family, and all of us who mourn him, and grant us the fortitude to bear his sad irreplaceable loss. May God grant him eternal rest. -PO

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The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged Nigerians to recover lost values and maintain prayers for peace and the well-being of our leaders and country. He made the call after the Eid el Fitr prayer, which marked the end of Ramadan. The prayer was held at Kaduna Capital School in Kaduna on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

The Minister called on Nigerians to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging his efforts to reposition Nigeria among the best nations in the world.

Our economy is being repositioned, the foreign exchange market is stabilizing, and Agriculture is being repositioned so that we will have food security for our people; indeed, the countrys security situation is also improving.

The minister called on Nigerians to condemn all the dastardly acts by terrorists, hoping that they will draw from the reasons of Ramadan and ensure that Nigerians stay in peace.

The Minister expressed his concern that our values have been gradually eroding over the years. He passionately called upon all of us to unite and reclaim those values to reposition ourselves and our country. The Minister also urged young people to learn from the experiences of their elders and avoid being carried away by global trends.

Nigeria is a great country; all we need to do is come together and ensure that all the good values are embraced for the benefit of Nigeria.

For Nigeria to be great again, we must change our ways and continue demonstrating all the values learned during Ramadan.

The Chief Imam of Kapital School mosque, Imam Abdurrahman, who led the prayers, delivered a sermon in which he called Muslims and Christians alike to ensure that Nigeria stays in peace and unity so that we can witness its progress. He called on Nigerians to reclaim those values and reposition themselves and our country.

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Former Abia State Governor and ex-Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu is dead.

According to SaharaReporters, the 72-year-old politician died on Thursday morning at an Abuja hospital.

A source close to him in Ebonyi confirmed his death, revealing that Ogbonnaya Onu had been battling illness for some time, with plans underway to seek medical treatment abroad after the Sallah break.

He has been sick for some time this year and his family said they would fly him abroad to get better medical treatment for him but he could not make it till then, the source said.

Following news of his passing, friends and family have gathered at his Abuja residence to offer condolences.

Onu, who hailed from Ebonyi State, served as Abia States inaugural civilian governor and held the position of Nigerias Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation from November 2015 until his resignation in 2022.

Before his political career, Onu worked as a teacher and lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt.

He began his political journey as a senatorial aspirant in the old Imo State under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN).

Winning the gubernatorial seat in Abia State in 1991, Onu served as its first executive governor and chaired the Conference of Nigerian Elected Governors.

He later contested for the presidency in 1999 under the All Peoples Party but stepped aside for Olu Falae after his partys merger with the Alliance for Democracy.

Transitioning to national politics, Onu held positions such as national chairman of the All Nigerian Peoples Party and later played a key role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He served as Minister of Science and Technology under President Muhammadu Buhari but resigned in 2022.

During the 2023 general election, Onu contested for the APCs presidential ticket but was defeated by President Bola Tinubu.

This come hours after Nollywood actor, Junior Pope Odonwodo, also known as Jnr Pope, was confirmed dead after he was revived to life.
Popular Nigerian dancer Korra Obidi is recovering in the hospital after surviving a brutal attack in London.

She was stabbed and attacked with acid by unidentified assailants on a quiet London street.

As authorities continue their investigation, Obidi has issued a plea to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of her attackers.

Messages of love and solidarity have flooded her Instagram comments section, with Nigerians rallying behind one of their own in her time of need.

We urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information that could assist in identifying the perpetrators to come forward. Your cooperation could be crucial in bringing those responsible to justice.

This is breaking news.
The Times Higher Education has published its 2024 World Universities Rankings, covering 108 countries and regions.

In Nigeria, 39 universities made it onto the list, with Covenant University securing the top position.

Following closely is the University of Ibadan in second place, while the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and the University of Lagos take the third and fourth spots, respectively.

Globally, the University of Oxford retains its position as the top-ranked university for the eighth consecutive year. However, there have been changes in the ranks of others in the top five. Stanford University climbs to second place, displacing Harvard University to fourth.

The rankings this year involved an analysis of over 134 million citations from 16.5 million research publications, along with survey responses from 68,402 scholars worldwide. The data collection process gathered 411,789 data points from over 2,673 institutions that provided data, as reported by The Times Higher Education.

See full list below:

1. Covenant University

2. University of Ibadan

3. Federal University of Technology, Akure

4. University of Lagos

5. Bayero University

6. University of Ilorin

7. University of Nigeria

8. Afe Babalola University

9. University of Benin

10. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta

11. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology

12. Lagos State University

13. Nnamdi Azikiwe University

14. Obafemi Awolowo University

15. University of Port Harcourt

16. Abia State University

17. Akwa Ibom State University

18. Alex Ekwueme Federal University

19. Babcock University

20. Baze University

21. Bells University of Technology

22. Benson Idahosa University

23. Delta State University, Abraka

24. Edo State University

25. Edwin Clark University

26. Elizade University

27. Evangel University, Akaeze

28. Federal University of Kashere

29. Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun

30. Federal University of Technology, Minna

31. Federal University of Technology, Owerri

32. Fountain University

33. Landmark University

34. Nasarawa State University, Keffi

35. Niger Delta University

36. Plateau State University

37. Thomas Adewumi University

38. Veritas University

39. Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano
Amid heightened tension in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is set to be confirmed as the Olubadan of Ibadanland today by the Olubadan-in-Council.

Barring any changes amid the power tussle in the ranks of the kingmakers, Olakulehins name would be forwarded to Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde, for approval after the confirmation.

The meeting is slated to occur at the Olubadan Palace at Ojaba in the Ibadan South East Local Government Area of the state.

High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and former Governor of Oyo State, rescheduled the meeting from Thursday to Friday (today) due to public holidays.

This assembly aims to resolve the controversies surrounding Oba Olakulehins nomination following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun on March 14, 2024.

However, there are reports that some of the Ibadan crowned Obas may not attend todays meeting, although they were duly informed.



A source disclosed, I may confirm to you that some of them will not honor the invitation, even though they were duly informed. None of them (the kingmakers) will deny or say he hasnt received the message to that effect.

It is anticipated that Oba Olakulehin will be present at todays meeting.

Attention is now on the kingmakers, who have been duly notified of todays meeting to confirm and announce Oba Olakulehin as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland.

In accordance with the Ibadan chieftaincy protocol, the nomination of the new monarch must be made by the person next in line at a meeting convened by the most senior chief in the other line.

Despite objections from Otun Balogun Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, who expressed concerns about Oba Olakulehins fitness to rule, Ladoja disagreed, emphasizing Oba Olakulehins age and experience.

If Oba Ajibola fails to attend todays meeting, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, who is next in line, will make the nomination.

Following todays meeting, the kingmakers will present their nomination to Governor Makinde for ratification and approval.

Governor Makinde, addressing concerns during a Sallah homage, emphasized the importance of unity and urged against actions that could cause division, affirming that the nomination process had not yet concluded.
The tradition of spraying money at parties has been deeply entrenched in Nigerian culture for a long time, frequently acting as a vibrant way to kick off festivities and bring people together.

For Nigerians, the spectacle of unfurling a bundle of crisp naira notes and showering them on the dancing floor carries with it an implicit message of wealth and status.

However, in recent times, law enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on individuals who engage in this practice, citing a violation of section 21(3) of Nigerias CBN Act of 2007.

Such actions are deemed as defacement of Nigerias legal tender and have come under increasing scrutiny and disapproval.

According to the law, spraying money at events is expressly prohibited, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to hefty fines, or a combination of both.

The implementation of this law is as seen in the recent arrest of popular crossdresser, Bobrisky for naira abuse and his sentencing to six months in prison after being found guilty of the offence.

With the conviction of Bobrisky and the increased awareness of the legislation, many are now considering alternatives to the age-old tradition of money spraying.

Here are some of the safe alternatives you could explore:

Alternative ways to spraying money in parties



Digital Transactions



In this digital age dominated by online banking and electronic payments, leveraging these technologies presents a viable alternative to traditional cash-based transactions.

Embracing digital transactions not only sidesteps the risk of defacing naira notes during festivities but also offers convenience and efficiency.

With a plethora of mobile banking apps, online payment platforms, and digital wallets readily available, transferring monetary gifts or contributing to event expenses has never been simpler. Whether its sending a gift to the celebrant or chipping in for party costs, digital transactions provide a seamless solution.

Non-monetary gifts



Offering non-monetary gifts as a substitute for the traditional practice of spraying cash at parties is another meaningful alternative to consider. Guests can show their support for the party host by presenting items that hold sentimental or practical value, rather than simply contributing money.

These gifts can range from personalized or handmade creations to carefully selected items that reflect the interests and preferences of the celebrant. Whether its a custom-made piece of artwork, a handcrafted keepsake, or a thoughtful gift that speaks to the recipients passions, non-monetary gifts carry a unique charm and thoughtfulness that transcends mere monetary value.

Vouchers



Introducing redeemable vouchers as an alternative to traditional cash gifting adds a layer of flexibility and personalization to the party experience.

Rather than presenting or spraying physical cash, hosts can offer a selection of gift vouchers with predetermined monetary value. Guests have the option to purchase these vouchers using cash and then present them as gifts to the celebrant.

***

Source: Vanguard
A rights activist lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has reacted after a court sentenced socialite, Okuneye Idris Olarewaju aka Bobrisky to the six months for Naira mutilation.

Adeyanju urged security agencies to adopt a community service approach for victimless crimes like currency mutilation in the country.

On Friday, Justice Abimbola Awogboro handed down a six-month sentence without the option of a fine to Bobrisky.

The controversial celebrity has been in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, since his arrest last week.

He will now serve the jail term in the Ikoyi Prison, Lagos.

The statement by Adeyanju reads: We note with concern the six months sentence handed down to Mr Okuneye Idris Olarewaju (AKA Bobrisky), without an option of fine, for Naira mutilation offence, as reported by various national news platforms.

While we do not condone any attempt to break down the law or actual violation of the law, we are, however, constrained to state on record that at a time when private individuals, non-governmental organisations, states and federal governments are taking steps to decongest our prisons, Mr. Olarewaju, a first-time offender, has been sentenced to six months imprisonment, notwithstanding his allocutus and promise to use his platform to sensitise the public against Naira mutilation.

In handing down sentences, we urge our courts to be mindful of the cultural undertone surrounding offences. The act of spraying Naira or (otherwise called Naira mutilation), though an offence criminalised by law, is one that has been part of our cultural practice from time immemorial. The relevant agencies, therefore, have a duty to carry out large-scale sensitization on the issue, before seeking to prosecute offenders.

We also note that even at the said event where Mr. Olarenwaju was alleged to have mutilated the Naira, there were several other persons engaging in the same act. The question is, why single out Mr. Olarenwaju? In prosecuting offences like this, security agencies must be careful not to give the impression that the Defendant is being targeted for alleged offences other than those stated on the face of the charge.

In conclusion, we urge our security agencies to adopt a community service approach for victimless crimes like Naira Mutilation, while we reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and the protection of human rights at all times.
The Nigerian Armyhas revealed the date for its Chief of Army Staff First Quarter Conference 2024 scheduled to be held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers Mess, Asokoro in Abuja.

The conference scheduled for Monday, April 15 to Friday, April 19, 2024, will pave the way for participants to appraise the conduct of Nigerian Army operations, training and other activities in pursuit of its constitutional mandate within the first quarter of the year.

Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

According to Nwachukwu, the conference will make projections for the 2024 second quarter and provide briefs on army training, and logistics among others.

He added that the conference will also review its operations against terrorists and insurgents across the country.

The statement partly reads: It will equally enable the Nigerian Army to make projections for the Second Quarter of the year, as well as holistically review the Counter Terrorism Counter Insurgency operations and Internal Security operations across the country, in which the Nigerian Army has been relentlessly involved.

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Furthermore, participants of the conference will be opportune to gain insight into the next transformational agenda of the COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja for the NA.

The conference will also witness the presentation of briefs on NA Training, Operations, Administration, Logistics and other Nigerian Army events, as captured in its 2024 Forecast of Events.

During the conference, far-reaching decisions to shore up the efficiency of the service would also be taken into consideration.

Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters, Corps, Formations, and Field Commanders, Commandants of NA Schools and Tri-Service Institutions, as well as selected NA Officers serving in key deployments are expected to be in attendance.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has delivered development in Badagry in fulfillment of his promise that no part of Lagos will be left underdeveloped.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement on Friday, highlighted: @jidesanwoolu

My promise is that no part of Lagos will be left underdeveloped, and Badagry is experiencing the fulfillment of this promise.

Todays tour of the historic city of Badagry was a journey through our rich heritage. We are committed to showcasing Badagry not just as a key part of Lagos history but as a beacon of tourism in Nigeria.

I visited our restored sites like the Slave Market Museum International Vlekete and the Badagry Heritage Museum. These sites tell powerful stories of our past, and were dedicated to preserving and enhancing them for future generations.

From the Point of No Return to the first-storey Building in Nigeria, Badagry is a treasure trove of history. Were improving infrastructure like roads and public facilities to make Badagry accessible and welcoming for all tourists.

I am thankful for the support from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and all state officials on this tour. Together, were working to make Badagry a world-class tourist destination, enriching our economy and preserving our culture.
El-Zakzaky

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria is to challenge the court order obtained by the federal government banning the operations of the organization, a report by Vanguard has revealed.

Spokesman of the Movement, Ibrahim Musa confirmed that we will be in court challenging the proscription.

Musa who spoke through a phone message on the recent accusation by a rival Shiite group that IMN was a fake organisation accused the leader of the rival Shiite sect, Al-Thaqalayn Cultural Foundation, Sheikh Hamza Lawal of being a government agent out to destabilise IMN.

According to Musa, Hamza Lawal, had failed woefully to create division within the ranks of the Islamic Movement in the past, and the government.

He is not worth being dignified with a response. He has been in the corridors of power for a while now and on their payroll to distract attention, cause confusion, and are known by various names in the past  Shia traitors, commercial Shia and the rest.

When in 2015 government massacred members of the Islamic Movement, they celebrated and rushed to form another organization called SHIMAN to be an umbrella organization to finalize the burial of IMN with government support, so as to deceive the public into believing that Shiites is not the target.

These same Shia-groups were again the ones who earlier this year came out to endorse Buhari for another term. Thus Hamza Lawal and his cultural group are a distraction not worth our time
Oil prices dipped on Thursday, dragged down by weakening factory output in China and Japan and record U.S. crude output, although markets remained relatively well supported by supply cuts led by producer club OPEC.

International Brent crude futures were at 66.20 dollars per barrel at 0525 GMT, down 19 cents, or 0.3 per cent from their last close.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil futures were at 56.90 dollars per barrel, down 4 cents from their last settlement.

Prices were dragged down by surging American crude oil production which has risen by more than 2 million barrels per day (bpd) over the last year to an unprecedented 12.1 million bpd.

Traders said Chinas weakening economy also weighed on oil prices.

Factory activity in China, the worlds biggest oil importer, shrank for a third straight month in February as export orders fell at the fastest pace since the global financial crisis a decade ago, official data showed on Thursday.

Amid weak demand from China, oil producers are having to cut prices.

Russias Surgutneftegaz is selling April-loading ESPO crude oil at the lowest level in three months, charging 2.20 dollars to 2.40 dollars per barrel over benchmark Dubai quotes.

In Japan, Asias second-biggest economy, factory output posted the biggest decline in a year in January as Chinas slowdown affected the entire region.

But oil markets remain relatively well supported by supply cuts by OPEC, which together with some non-affiliated producers like Russia known as OPEC+ agreed late last year to reduce output by 1.2 million bpd to prop up prices.

Because of these cuts, U.S. commercial crude inventories fell 8.6 million barrels in the week to Feb. 22 to 445.87 million barrels.

Crude imports into the U.S. fell 1.6 million bpd last week, to a two-decade low, ANZ bank said on Thursday.




Members of a group known as Occupy Nigeria yesterday protested at the Unity Fountain, Abuja. They demanded that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reverse the issuance of a certificate of return to President Muhammadu Buhari who was declared the winner of the recent presidential election.

The protesters alleged that assessment by observers on ground during the election revealed that card readers were not used at all in some states.

The coalition of over 50 civil society organisations and citizens said the observers report showed that votes were merely allotted in many parts of the Northwest and Northeast.According to the convener of the group, Idris Usman, it is an insult to the Nigerian people that INEC would allow an election in which voters were intimidated, maimed and even killed to stand. He called for due process to be followed in ensuring that the vote of every Nigerian counts in the 2019 presidential election.

Weve done a petition to INEC. There has never been a time when a decision was reversed. Despite that, what we are saying is that this decision did not settle well with the people.Where card readers were not used in the North, let card readers be used, anybody can win but let the proper thing be done. In Osun gubernatorial, no leader was announced till the process was concluded, so why was INEC in such a hurry to announce the result of the 2019 presidential election? Usman queried.

He condemned the use of military on the day of election, saying the presence of soldiers during the polls violated the law.The convener said the protest by the group would continue for four hours every day until Friday, March 8, 2019 and if the electoral body failed to yield to the petition of the group, it would occupy the INEC headquarters in Abuja.

In its demands, the group stated that voting must be conducted for the five million disenfranchised Nigerians, which is the population size of several countries. They said that in the spirit of transparency, INEC must open its back end servers to stakeholders.

Besides, the group urged the Federal Government to withdraw all military personnel in the South-South and South East immediately, adding that the perpetrators of violence in the Niger Delta be brought to book.Occupy Nigeria also asked that the thugs who harassed voters and fellow Nigerians in Lagos be made to account for their crime.

In a statement earlier released, Occupy Nigeria urged the citizens to rise up and take back the country from those who wish to hold it back, saying the nation was under attack with the future generations being at risk.Also, a group of concerned Nigerians called Better Nigeria Group (BNG) threatened yesterday to sue the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, if he failed to challenge the outcome of the presidential election.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the spokesman for the group, Mr. Dickson Iroegbu, alleged that the irregularities in the presidential election should not be allowed to stand for the sake of future generations.Members of the BNG who wore black clothes to the press conference said they were mourning the loss of lives occasioned by the acts of brigandage and violence that characterised the election.

The group claimed that the outcome of the presidential election which took place on the 23rd February, 2019, does not reflect the choice and the mandate of Nigerians. The spate of deliberate irregularities aimed at tilting the results toward the incumbent and the candidate of the APC and the subsequent declaration of victory for the same candidate is an assault on our democracy.

This brazen impunity should not be allowed to stand unchallenged, otherwise, amongst other things, our democracy will be dead forever. The electoral process is the beacon of democracy and remains so. Elections must not only be credible, but must be seen as credible. The sham of an election which took place on the said date and the subsequent declaration leaves so much to wonder about credibility, it stressed.

Also, a PDP chieftain and chairman of Deservation.Org/Project774forAtiku2019, Dr. Sani Adamu Bello, threatened to sue Atiku for breach of trust and violating the trust reposed in him by millions of Nigerians should he reverse his decision to go to court and reclaim the mandate freely given to him by voters in the February 23, 2019 polls.Adamu was reacting to the visit of the Abdulsalami Abubakar-led peace committee which is allegedly putting pressure on Atiku to accept the result of the presidential election and concede victory to Buhari.

As our democracy progresses, in 2015, the incumbent president was defeated by the opposition candidate and so, President Goodluck Jonathan of the PDP handed over to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015. In 2019, Atiku clearly won the election but was denied by INEC and the incumbent President Buhari.He said that those asking Atiku not to go to court were not doing Nigerians any favour because over 14 million Nigerians who voted him would be disenchanted and the boundaries of democracy limited.

I have been mandated by my organisation to give a one week ultimatum to the president-elect to go and reclaim the mandate freely given to him or we will take legal action against him, Adamu stated.The groups staged the protests yesterday as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declared that its legal team would file a petition against the re-election of President Buhari today.

The National chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus, who disclosed this at the expanded national caucus meeting of the party in Abuja, said the resort to the court was largely informed by what he called overwhelming rigging of the poll by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Secondus, who alleged that INEC officials were intimidated to carry out the bidding of the ruling APC, flayed the alleged Buhari-led governments use of the military to harass the electorate in some parts of the country in the course of the elections.Nothing will make us waver in the pursuit of justice. The decision to go to court has been finalised and the process has begun. We will file our petition today (Monday) or tomorrow (Tuesday). No matter what anyone will do or what the APC will say, we will seek justice to the highest court of the land.

What happened during this election has never happened in the history of this country. They are celebrating criminality, they are celebrating evil. Our leaders are not talking and if you dont speak against evil, it will consume everybody. The National Peace Committee is not saying anything.INEC and its ad-hoc staff were intimidated and everyone is quiet. If nothing is done, we will nosedive and go deeper and deeper in this situation we have found ourselves.

No matter the propaganda of APC, we will seek justice till the last drop of our blood. We believe justice will be done and God almighty will give justice, the PDP chairman said.

Those in attendance at the PDPs expanded caucus meeting included Atiku; Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu; Senator Dino Melaye; Senator Philip Aduda; former deputy Senate president, Ibrahim Mantu; PDP Board of Trustees chairman, Wali Jibril; former governor of Kogi State, Idris Wada and other members of the PDP national working committee.

The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; running mate to Atiku, Peter Obi and all the governors of the PDP-controlled states were absent . Meanwhile, President Buhari has decried what he considered as the robbery of the votes of Akwa Ibom people during the presidential and National Assembly elections, assuring his supporters that they would be reclaimed.He made the claim yesterday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State during a town hall meeting to thank the people for casting their votes for the APC.

Buhari, who was represented by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, encouraged the people to defend their votes during the governorship and House of Assembly elections.He stated that it was not possible for Senator Godswill Akpabio to have lost the elections, alleging that INEC robbed him and his party of victory, and that all the wrongs that were allegedly done during the elections would be addressed.

What happened on the 23rd of February was robbery. The votes of the people were stolen but we are not deterred. The president sent me to thank you today. We are going to make sure that everything that was stolen on the 23rd February is restored. It is not possible that Akpabio lost. We are in no doubt that Akpabio is the elected senator of Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district. I and Adams Oshiomhole, the National Chairman of APC have been in the opposition for long and we cannot be defeated anymore.

Everyone of you should go out to vote on Saturday and defend your votes. We cannot be cheated; not only you but tell your neighbours to vote for Obong Nsima Ekere and all APC candidates. Wait for your votes to be counted. It is the duty of the Federal Government to provide security and we will do that. We will recover every one of our votes, Osinbajo said. Oshiomhole told the gathering that the party was not in the state to lament but to thank the people for doing their jobs and voting President Buhari. He alleged that INEC colluded with some of the electoral officers to deny the state of its electoral victory on February 23, even though the people voted for the party.

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A pathologist, Doctor Olumide Okunuga has died of the deadly coronavirus in Canada.

Doctor Okunuga who hails from Ikenne Remo in Ogun State died yesterday morning aged 63 years.

His daughter Doctor Bolanle Okunuga was asked to identify his body from a distance before he was taken for cremation.

Dr. Olumide was the President of Egbe Omo Yoruba, Emila Romagna and Vice-President of Yoruba National Community in Italy.

He was also a two-time Councillor for Modena in Italy where he lived for 35 years. He contracted the deadly coronavirus in Canada.

While mourning his death, Mr Abiodun Gbadamsoi an official of Egbe Omo Yoruba in North America, said:

We lost a great man this weekend. He was an affectionate and decent man who lived for others through his meritorious services since he left Nigeria for Canada many years ago.
SPRINGFIELD  Illinois lawmakers are seeking to place guardrails on sale of hemp products that fall outside the tightly regulated cannabis industry, including placing a temporary ban on synthetic THC intoxicants such as delta-8.

The legislation, filed this week by Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, would create a regulatory framework for hemp consumer products by establishing licensing, testing and labeling standards that are similar to the states cannabis regulation laws.

Lightfords bill would also temporarily ban synthetic THC intoxicants, such as delta-8, for further study and review of the products safety. This study would be conducted by a committee of state public health officials, doctors, scientists and research experts, who would report on the products safety and offer potential manufacturing standards for the legislature and state regulators to consider.

Lightfords bill joins a trio of bills from state Rep. LaShawn Ford, D-Chicago, and state Sen. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago  House Bill 4193, House Bill 5306 and Senate Bill 3790  that would regulate hemp but would not ban delta-8.

Right now, delta has none of those regulations. You dont have to go to the state regulators to open up a delta shop," Ford said. "Theyre popping up everywhere. Theyre not labeling them, and people dont know exactly what level of potency theyre getting.

When people buy products from cannabis dispensaries in Illinois, they can read labels and determine the level of potency to make decisions about how much they can consume, he said.

With delta, you dont need a license to sell it, theres no regulations, theres no testing requirements and theres no labeling," Ford said. "Therefore, we need to make sure we do that.

The call for hemp regulation in Illinois comes as the products have grown increasingly popular across the state and nation. Hemp is similar to cannabis but can have different effect levels. Cannabis is intoxicating no matter the strain whereas hemp isnt in its original form. But when hemp is naturally synthesized, it can be a much more intoxicating product  such as delta-8, a mildly intoxicating sibling of delta-9 THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana.

The products popularity has skyrocketed since the passage of the federal governments 2018 Farm Bill, which defined hemp as a product separate from cannabis and removed it from the controlled substances list. Since then, dozens of states have approved regulations and others, such as Iowa, Missouri and Illinois are considering legislation to address the regulatory vacuum.

In Illinois, delta-8 products can be sold anywhere with no age restrictions.

Over the last several years, theres been a proliferation of unregulated THC products, said Tiffany Chappell Ingram, executive director of the Cannabis Business Association of Illinois. These products can be found in corner stores and gas stations and bakeries, and even unlicensed retailers that hold themselves out to be dispensaries. That creates a lot of consumer confusion.

Proponents of regulation note that some items come in packaging that is nearly identical to other products that can be found at these stores, such as Fritos, Skittles and Airheads.

Theres no guarantee whats in the package, (and) theres no guarantee whats in the product. Our legislation seeks to address that, said Chappell Ingram, who supports Lightfords bill.

Under the proposal, current hemp retailers would be able to continue selling non-intoxicating hemp products. But the bill would require retailers that want to continue selling intoxicating hemp products to apply for a cannabis dispensary license.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture would be charged with enforcing the regulations and will allow them to investigate and inspect places that are not in line with those regulations.

Lightfords legislation, which goes further than Ford and Collins bills by temporarily banning delta-8, has bipartisan support from lawmakers in both chambers.

These predatory market practices would never be allowed with any other product, said state Rep. Norine Hammond, R-Macomb. Cannabis products sold in dispensaries have very strict labeling standards. Knowing that these (hemp) products contain nearly the same or certainly the same intoxicants but they can be disguised is frankly quite terrifying to me. Its time for us as policymakers to intervene and to protect the consumers, but especially to protect Illinois children.

Ford and Collins bills would offer a similar level of regulation for hemp products. House Bill 5306, sponsored by Ford, would put limitations and penalties in place regarding the unlawful use of the substance. It also addresses licensing and registration of hemp, loans and grants, packaging and labeling of the product, lab approvals, testing requirements and taxation, among other things. Collins' Senate Bill 3790 is identical to this bill.

House Bill 4193 would ban the sale of hemp products to people under 21. It would also establish specific details about hemp retailer licenses, such as who can sell the products and what the standards are for issuing these licenses.

Collins, the Senate sponsor, said regulating the substance would target bad actors in the industry and put in place safeguards that protect consumers and generate tax revenue for the state.

Ive talked to a lot of the hemp (and) delta-8 owners throughout my district and throughout the city where Im from who show great concern separating themselves from the bad actors because there were kids actually getting a hold of some of these products and there were stories written about them, Collins said. (The bill) would actually put some restrictions in place for the safeguards  where were not only protecting consumers, but they know whats in the product (and) also generates another revenue tax.

However, Chappell Ingram, the leader of the association that advocates for the states heavily taxed and regulated cannabis industry, said Ford and Collins bills dont go far enough.

We just dont think Fords legislation goes far enough, but we do appreciate his efforts in this space, she said.

Despite this, Collins and Ford on Thursday renewed their call to move their proposals forward to protect consumers and help taxpayers by fairly taxing these products.

We begin by requiring licenses for everyone who sells delta hemp products in Illinois, Ford said in the statement. If a merchant doesnt comply with the rules and regulations we put in place, they lose their licenses. In addition to ensuring that hemp products already being sold at thousands of retail and hospitality locations throughout Illinois are safe, taxing these products could bring in tens, maybe even hundreds of millions of dollars in new tax revenue annually. At a time when the state budget is very tight, we could do a lot of good with those resources.

All the bills in question are either in the gatekeeping House Rules Committee or Senate Assignments Committee.
The UN has asked Mali's military junta to lift its recent ban on political activity in the West African country.



"We are deeply concerned by the decree suspending the activities of political parties and other civic associations," the UN has said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter.



Opposition groups have also been critical of the move by the military authorities, which have been in power since a 2020 coup.



It has further inflamed tensions that have been growing since the junta broke its promise to hold presidential elections in February.



Cherif Kone, general co-ordinator of L'Appel du 20 fevrier, said it was out of the question to let the dictatorship prosper in the country.



In its decree, the junta said broadcasts and the publication of political activities were also barred to maintain public order.



In response, influential cleric Mahmoud Dicko issued a video on social media to his supporters from exile vowing to return home.



He initially supported the coup but has since fallen out with the junta for failing to meet various deadlines for a return to civilian rule - leaving Mali for Algeria in December.



A few civil society and opposition groups called for demonstrations on Thursday, but they were banned. They also called for weekend protests.



"The Malian population should unite itself and protest against this decision," Ismael Sacko, president of the African Democratic Socialist Party (PSDA), told the BBC.

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.

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A US helicopter charter company is being sued over a crash in February that killed the former boss of Nigerias stock exchange, Abimbola Ogunbanjo.



He had been travelling to Las Vegas to watch the Super Bowl when the helicopter went down in southern California.



Five others were also killed in the crash, including Herbert Wigwe, the co-founder of Access Bank - Nigeria's largest bank.



Mr Ogunbanjos family are seeking compensation, including money for funeral expenses.



In the lawsuit, filed in a US court on Wednesday, the family accuses the charter company Orbic Air LL of flying in unsuitable weather conditions.



Local police said the weather was poor, with reports of rain and snow showers in the area.



Helicopters do not do very well in snow and ice, Andrew C Robb, the lawyer representing the Ogunbanjo family, told the Associated Press news agency.



"This flight was entirely preventable, and we dont know why they took off.



He added that the family wants "answers and accountability.

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.

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On Thursday, the 4th of April, 2024, B5 Plus welcomed the Ambassador of India, Commissioner Manish Gupta, alongside other ambassadors such as the Ambassador of Guinea, Ambassador of Mali, Ambassador of Togo, Ambassador of Burkina Faso, Swiss Ambassador, Bank of Africa Managing Director, and the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Ghana, among others.



Mrs. Tanuja Mukesh Thakwani and the District Chief Executive of the Prampram area was also present for the tour, along with representatives from a few companies.



They visited B5 Plus to get a sense of the company and the processes involved in the production of the variety of products manufactured by B5 Plus.



The various dignitaries arrived at the companys premises in Tema around 10:00 am. They attended a board meeting where they were briefed about the operations of the company, the multiple awards (internal and external) received by the company over the years, and then they were taken around the fabrication, melting, and rolling plants by officials of the company, led by the Companys Director, Mr. Mukesh Thakwani.



DPSI School was also included in this tour. The students gave the dignitaries a warm welcome and displayed several talent acts to entertain them and at the end, Commissioner Manish Gupta (Ambassador of India) applauded and praised the students.



Afterwards, they toured the school, observing the classrooms, library, various laboratories, hostel blocks, and other parts of the school.



This part of the tour was led by the Principal, Dr. Seema V. Nair, alongside Mr. Mukesh Thakwani and a few other staff members from the school.



The visit concluded with a tour of the Larpleku factory.At the end of the tour, the dignitaries expressed their gratitude and praised both institutions for their remarkable work, urging B5 Plus and DPSI to continue their good efforts.



The dignitaries also praised the company for its CSR (Corporate Social Responsibilities) activities saying it was remarkable and commendable.



The Ambassador of India also had a few words of praise for the company and the director, Mr. Mukesh Thakwani.

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.

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New Patriotic Party (NPP) Youth Organisers in the Ashanti believe Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is the preferred candidate to partner with their party flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as running mate in the December 7 presidential election.



They described Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as an incredible team player and unifier with rich political experience to help the NPP break the 8.



As ground persons, we do not doubt that Dr Prempeh provides a solid choice who will give the required support for Dr Bawumia to win a decisive victory in the December 7 elections. They appeal to Dr Bawumia in a statement sighted by Peacefmonline.com.



Read below the full statement.



Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh will be a solid choice - Ashanti NPP Youth Organisers appeal to Dr Bawumia to pick him as running mate



As our party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) move to retain power, we Constituency Youth Organisers in the Ashanti Region wish to make a humble appeal to the flagbearer, H.E. Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia to pick Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate.



It is a fact, and we believe the same to be true that no person or group of persons can force the immensely competent Dr Bawumia to pick a particular person as his running mate.



Nevertheless, as major stakeholders of the party in its stronghold of Ashanti Region, we politely make an appeal for him to choose Dr Prempeh, who is the Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South.



As ground persons, we do not doubt that Dr Prempeh provides a solid choice who will give the required support for Dr Bawumia to win a decisive victory in the December 7 elections.



We have worked with Dr Prempeh in the party in the Ashanti Region over the years and can attest to his competence and credibility. Among his attributes are:



He is an incredible team player, has shown immense respect for differing opinions, and has been open to constructive feedback and criticism.



He has demonstrated to be a grassroots man who is accessible to every member/supporter of the party and is loved by a greater majority of the people of the region.



He is a tremendous supporter of party activities in the Ashanti Region, especially activities concerning the youth who constitute the majority of the people.



 He commands a lot of respect within the corridors of the youth in the Ashanti Region.



Without a doubt, Dr Bawumia as flagbearer, and Dr Prempeh as running mate, will be a perfect match that the NDC will find too hot to handle, and breaking the 8 agenda will be even more enhanced.



The NPP emails the only hope of the people of Ghana and we cannot afford to disappoint in the general elections. We need to win the elections to build on the gains of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.



We therefore need a solid pair that will take us to the promised land and we are confident that Dr Bawumia will consider our appeal.



When the NPP win the December 7 elections, we as the youth of the party, are confident that the tremendous qualities Dr Bawumia has exhibited as Vice President will be replicated by Dr Prempeh as his Vice.





Signed



0551233495

Nana Boakye Dankwa

Bantama Constituency



0246284083

Michael Saddick Adams

Oforikrom Constituency



0509628866

Nana Kwadwo Pipim

Old Tafo Constituency



0245538734

Nkansa Ababio

Ahafo Ano South West

Your browser does not support iframes.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com









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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional youth oganisers have clarified their stance amidst rumors circulating about their endorsement of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as a potential running mate for the party.



Dismissing the claims as misrepresentative of the broader sentiments within the region, the organisers emphasized the importance of democratic processes within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).



According to Article 12 (b) of the NPP's Constitution, the selection of the vice-presidential candidate lies within the prerogative of the presidential candidate, in consultation with the National Council.



The organisers underscored that it is not the mandate of youth organisers to exert undue influence on such decisions, stressing the need for democratic principles to prevail.



"It's important to clarify that this assertion does not accurately represent the sentiments of the majority of youth organisers in the Ashanti Region," the organisers stated firmly, addressing the misconception surrounding Dr. Prempeh's alleged endorsement.



Furthermore, the organisers outlined the qualities they believe are essential in a vice-presidential candidate, emphasizing traits such as humility, respect across all sectors, national appeal, and widespread popularity among Ghanaians.



"To ensure maximum support from party members and the Ghanaian populace, it is paramount for our party's leadership to consider a candidate who embodies these qualities," they urged.



Below is the press statement



We Have Not Endorsed Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as Running Mate; Ashanti Youth Organisers



We wish to address the recent press statement regarding alleged widespread support for Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh for the position of running mate. It's important to clarify that this assertion does not accurately represent the sentiments of the majority of youth organisers in the Ashanti Region. The purported endorsement merely reflects the views of a few individuals and does not speak on behalf of the broader Youth Organisers or their Constituency.



Article 12 (b) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party provides that, the selection of the vice-presidential candidate rests with the Presidential Candidate, in consultation with the National Council of the party. It is not within the mandate of youth organisers to exert pressure, whether directly or indirectly, on the Presidential Candidate regarding the choice of a running mate. Such actions would constitute undue influence and run counter to the democratic principles of our party.



To ensure maximum support from party members and the Ghanaian populace, it is paramount for our party's leadership to consider a candidate who embodies humility, commands respect across all sectors, possesses national appeal, and is widely liked by the majority of Ghanaians before finalising the choice of a vice-presidential candidate.



We urge all members of our party to extend their support and prayers to the presidential candidate through prayers and encouragement as they deliberate on selecting a suitable vice-presidential candidate. Let us collectively uphold the democratic values of our party and strive towards unity in preparation for the upcoming elections.



Convenors



Nana Sarpong

Youth Organiser, Kumawu

0242022351



Boitey Kwasi Dickson

Youth Organiser, Juaben

0242022351



Gideon Okyere Darko

Youth Organizer, Offinso North

0246244131



Prince Boateng

Youth Organiser,Bosomtwi

0244179815



Duggan Bright

Youth Organizer, New Edubiase

0240568308





Bright Nyampong

Youth Organizer, Obuase West

0546597955















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.

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Some Identifiable trade groups at Kejetia market in the Ashanti Region are appealing to the bigwigs of the New Patriotic Party ( NPP) to pick a female from the region to partner His Excellency Alhaji Mahamadu Bawumia.



Peacefmonline Sampson Kwame Nyamekye filed that as the NPP party executives consider their options, the call for a woman running mate resonates strongly among the traders and many others who believe in the power of inclusivity and equal representation in political leadership.



The traders believe that having a woman as a running mate would not only promote gender equality but also bring a fresh perspective to the political landscape.



At a Press briefing at Kejetia New Market, they said as the party has able to conquer the tribalism and religious extremism within the party, its time to promote women equality as well.



We need to pick a woman as a running mate like our competitors and this election will only focus on projects undertaken by these two different administrationsone trader added.



We have seen the incredible impact that women leaders can have in various sectors. It is time for our political landscape to reflect that reality another trader chipped in .



They argue that women possess unique qualities and perspectives that can contribute greatly to the development and progress of the nation.



The traders are confident that a female running mate would bring a new dynamic to the campaign and resonate with a wider range of voters, particularly women.



The appeal from the Kumasi traders highlights the growing desire for gender equality and female representation in politics.





Source: Samson Kwame Nyamekye/ Hello Fm









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Many cultures have different mermaid legends, leading to different depictions of the half-woman, half-fish beings. From creatures that can make you immortal to half-seal mythical creatures, here are a few ways that societies have viewed mermaids.

Ningyo

In Japanese culture, ningyo (a word that combines person and fish) is a fishlike creature with the mouth of a monkey, but the term has encompassed other beings. According to mermaid legend, eating ningyo flesh could make one immortal.

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In the early 1900s, around the time when Japanese translations of "The Little Mermaid" first became available, the idea of mermaids began to change in Japan. According to Philip Hayward, a professor at University of Technology Sydney, in "Japan: The Mermaidisation of the Ningyo and Related Folkloric Figures":

"The story struck a chord with a number of Japanese writers, particularly female ones, who have provided a series of 'open-ended and nonlinear' engagements with Andersen's tale, including a number of works aimed at a young adolescent audience that use the mermaid and her accrued cultural meanings to explore female subjectivity and experience. Despite the frequent use of the term 'ningyo' in their titles and texts, most of these works drew more heavily on Andersen's model than on traditional Japanese ningyo folklore and didn't attempt significant infusions and/or modifications of the latter."

Selkies

Mermaid mythology is also present in Scotland and Ireland. As author Jason Marc Harris writes in "Perilous Shores: The Unfathomable Supernaturalism of Water in 19th-Century Scottish Folklore," "the range of Scottish tales and beliefs about the mermaid exemplifies the dynamic of ambivalence that people have towards the powers of the water as well as the checks and balances of folk metaphysics."

In Scottish culture, there are stories of destructive or magical mermaids that share similarities to selkies.

"Selkies are creatures living off the west coast of Ireland and Scotland that are both human and seal," writes Stuart C. Aitken, a professor at San Diego State University, in "The Edge of the World: Embattled Leagues of Children and Seals Teeter on the Rim." "Underneath its seal skin the selkie is human, and when it discards the skin it can walk on land as a man or a woman. If a man steals the skin of a female selkie, she is tied to him as a wife and will not return to the water for as long as he has her skin. it is said that this ancient legend is a precursor to the modern myth of mermaids."

Mami Wata

Mermaids are not just a Western concept. Several countries across Africa celebrate Mami Wata, a "beautiful, protective, seductive and potentially deadly" water spirit, according to art historian Henry J. Drewal. She is half-fish and half-human and can appear as a snake charmer.

"Mami Wata is widely believed to have 'overseas' origins, and depictions of her have been profoundly influenced by representations of ancient, Indigenous African water spirits, European mermaids and snake charmers, Hindu gods and goddesses, and Christian and Muslim saints," Drewal writes in "Mami Wata: Arts for Water Spirits in Africa and Its Diasporas."

"Although for some she bestows good fortune and status through monetary wealth, for others, she aids in concerns related to procreation  infertility, impotence or infant mortality. Some are drawn to her as an irresistible seductive presence who offers the pleasures and powers that accompany devotion to a spiritual force. Yet she also represents danger, for a liaison with Mami Wata often requires a substantial sacrifice, such as the life of a family member or celibacy in the realm of mortals."
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:

Artist's visualization of GRB 221009A showing the narrow relativistic jetsemerging from a central black holethat gave rise to the GRB and the expanding remains of the original star ejected via the supernova explosion. Using the James Webb Space Telescope, Northwestern University postdoctoral fellow Peter Blanchard and his team detected the supernova for the first time, confirming GRB 221009A was the result of the collapse of a massive star. The study's co-authors also found that the event occurred in a dense star forming region of its host galaxy as depicted by the background nebula. Credit: Aaron M. Geller / Northwestern / CIERA / IT Research Computing and Data Services

In October 2022, an international team of researchers, including Northwestern University astrophysicists, observed the brightest gamma-ray burst (GRB) ever recorded, GRB 221009A.

Now, a Northwestern-led team has confirmed that the phenomenon responsible for the historic burstdubbed the B.O.A.T. ("brightest of all time")is the collapse and subsequent explosion of a massive star. The team discovered the explosion, or supernova, using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

While this discovery solves one mystery, another mystery deepens.

The researchers speculated that evidence of heavy elements, such as platinum and gold, might reside within the newly uncovered supernova. The extensive search, however, did not find the signature that accompanies such elements. The origin of heavy elements in the universe continues to remain as one of astronomy's biggest open questions.

The research is published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

"When we confirmed that the GRB was generated by the collapse of a massive star, that gave us the opportunity to test a hypothesis for how some of the heaviest elements in the universe are formed," said Northwestern's Peter Blanchard, who led the study.

"We did not see signatures of these heavy elements, suggesting that extremely energetic GRBs like the B.O.A.T. do not produce these elements. That doesn't mean that all GRBs do not produce them, but it's a key piece of information as we continue to understand where these heavy elements come from. Future observations with JWST will determine if the B.O.A.T.'s 'normal' cousins produce these elements."

Birth of the B.O.A.T.

When its light washed over Earth on Oct. 9, 2022, the B.O.A.T. was so bright that it saturated most of the world's gamma-ray detectors. The powerful explosion occurred approximately 2.4 billion light-years away from Earth, in the direction of the constellation Sagitta and lasted a few hundred seconds in duration. As astronomers scrambled to observe the origin of this incredibly bright phenomenon, they were immediately hit with a sense of awe.

"As long as we have been able to detect GRBs, there is no question that this GRB is the brightest we have ever witnessed by a factor of 10 or more," Wen-fai Fong, an associate professor of physics and astronomy at Northwestern's Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences and member of CIERA, said at the time.

"The event produced some of the highest-energy photons ever recorded by satellites designed to detect gamma rays," Blanchard said. "This was an event that Earth sees only once every 10,000 years. We are fortunate to live in a time when we have the technology to detect these bursts happening across the universe. It's so exciting to observe such a rare astronomical phenomenon as the B.O.A.T. and work to understand the physics behind this exceptional event."

A 'normal' supernova

Rather than observe the event immediately, Blanchard, his close collaborator Ashley Villar of Harvard University and their team wanted to view the GRB during its later phases. About six months after the GRB was initially detected, Blanchard used the JWST to examine its aftermath.

"The GRB was so bright that it obscured any potential supernova signature in the first weeks and months after the burst," Blanchard said. "At these times, the so-called afterglow of the GRB was like the headlights of a car coming straight at you, preventing you from seeing the car itself. So, we had to wait for it to fade significantly to give us a chance of seeing the supernova."

Blanchard used the JWST's Near Infrared Spectrograph to observe the object's light at infrared wavelengths. That's when he saw the characteristic signature of elements like calcium and oxygen typically found within a supernova. Surprisingly, it wasn't exceptionally brightlike the incredibly bright GRB that it accompanied.

"It's not any brighter than previous supernovae," Blanchard said. "It looks fairly normal in the context of other supernovae associated with less energetic GRBs. You might expect that the same collapsing star producing a very energetic and bright GRB would also produce a very energetic and bright supernova. But it turns out that's not the case. We have this extremely luminous GRB, but a normal supernova."

Missing: Heavy elements

After confirmingfor the first timethe presence of the supernova, Blanchard and his collaborators then searched for evidence of heavy elements within it. Currently, astrophysicists have an incomplete picture of all the mechanisms in the universe that can produce elements heavier than iron.

The primary mechanism for producing heavy elements, the rapid neutron capture process, requires a high concentration of neutrons. So far, astrophysicists have only confirmed the production of heavy elements via this process in the merger of two neutron stars, a collision detected by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in 2017.

But scientists say there must be other ways to produce these elusive materials. There are simply too many heavy elements in the universe and too few neutron-star mergers.

"There is likely another source," Blanchard said. "It takes a very long time for binary neutron stars to merge. Two stars in a binary system first have to explode to leave behind neutron stars. Then, it can take billions and billions of years for the two neutron stars to slowly get closer and closer and finally merge.

"But observations of very old stars indicate that parts of the universe were enriched with heavy metals before most binary neutron stars would have had time to merge. That's pointing us to an alternative channel."

Astrophysicists have hypothesized that heavy elements also might be produced by the collapse of a rapidly spinning, massive starthe exact type of star that generated the B.O.A.T. Using the infrared spectrum obtained by the JWST, Blanchard studied the inner layers of the supernova, where the heavy elements should be formed.

"The exploded material of the star is opaque at early times, so you can only see the outer layers," Blanchard said. "But once it expands and cools, it becomes transparent. Then you can see the photons coming from the inner layer of the supernova."

"Moreover, different elements absorb and emit photons at different wavelengths, depending on their atomic structure, giving each element a unique spectral signature," Blanchard explained. "Therefore, looking at an object's spectrum can tell us what elements are present. Upon examining the B.O.A.T.'s spectrum, we did not see any signature of heavy elements, suggesting extreme events like GRB 221009A are not primary sources. This is crucial information as we continue to try to pin down where the heaviest elements are formed."

Why so bright?

To tease apart the light of the supernova from that of the bright afterglow that came before it, the researchers paired the JWST data with observations from the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile.

"Even several months after the burst was discovered, the afterglow was bright enough to contribute a lot of light in the JWST spectra," said Tanmoy Laskar, an assistant professor of physics and astronomy at the University of Utah and a co-author on the study.

"Combining data from the two telescopes helped us measure exactly how bright the afterglow was at the time of our JWST observations and allow us to carefully extract the spectrum of the supernova."

Although astrophysicists have yet to uncover how a "normal" supernova and a record-breaking GRB were produced by the same collapsed star, Laskar said it might be related to the shape and structure of the relativistic jets. When rapidly spinning, massive stars collapse into black holes, they produce jets of material that launch at rates close to the speed of light. If these jets are narrow, they produce a more focusedand brighterbeam of light.

"It's like focusing a flashlight's beam into a narrow column, as opposed to a broad beam that washes across a whole wall," Laskar said. "In fact, this was one of the narrowest jets seen for a gamma-ray burst so far, which gives us a hint as to why the afterglow appeared as bright as it did. There may be other factors responsible as well, a question that researchers will be studying for years to come."

Additional clues also may come from future studies of the galaxy in which the B.O.A.T. occurred. "In addition to a spectrum of the B.O.A.T. itself, we also obtained a spectrum of its 'host' galaxy," Blanchard said. "The spectrum shows signs of intense star formation, hinting that the birth environment of the original star may be different than previous events."

Team member Yijia Li, a graduate student at Penn State, modeled the spectrum of the galaxy, finding that the B.O.A.T.'s host galaxy has the lowest metallicity, a measure of the abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, of all previous GRB host galaxies. "This is another unique aspect of the B.O.A.T. that may help explain its properties," Li said.

This work is based on observations made with the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.

Blanchard is a postdoctoral fellow at Northwestern's Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA), where he studies superluminous supernovae and GRBs. The study includes co-authors from the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian; University of Utah; Penn State; University of California, Berkeley; Radbound University in the Netherlands; Space Telescope Science Institute; University of Arizona/Steward Observatory; University of California, Santa Barbara; Columbia University; Flatiron Institute; University of Greifswald and the University of Guelph.

More information: JWST detection of a supernova associated with GRB 221009A without an r-process signature', Nature Astronomy (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-024-02237-4 Journal information: Nature Astronomy
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Fewer, larger rainfall events change hydrological conditions for plants. Credit: Nature Reviews Earth & Environment (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s43017-024-00534-0

April showers are increasingly becoming deluges due to climate change, and May flowers will never be the same. And it's not just April; the warming of the planet is causing a year-round, worldwide trend toward more intense but less frequent rainfalls, a dynamic that will increasingly impact plants worldwide, according to a University of Maryland-led study published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment.

Already in most regions, more than half of the total yearly rainfall occurs on the 12 wettest days of the yeara number likely to shrink as rainfall becomes more concentrated in fewer days.

Longer dry periods interspersed with stronger downpours tend to benefit plants in dry places like the American West, while plants in wetter locations are burdened by these changes, according to a review by Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center Researcher Andrew Feldman and colleagues that analyzed a broad range of previous studies using field experiments, satellite data and model simulations.

These contrasting responses can be attributed to how different plants respond to water, the researchers said. Dry ecosystem plants are more sensitive to large rainfall pulses compared with wet ecosystem plants, and thus benefit from downpours. However, plants within the same ecosystem can vary in how they respond to rainfall, meaning climate change has the potential to shift the plant composition of whole ecosystems.

"Typically, more rainfall over a year will make plants happier and the ecosystem can support more vegetation," said Feldman, the paper's first author. "However, plants can shift their photosynthesis and growth by 10% to 30% if their rainfall input is changed, for example, from three drizzle events per week to one big rainstorm each weekeven with the same total rainfall input over a year."

Plants in intermediately wet regions like the Midwestern United States changed the most due to the altered rainfall, shifting function by 25% over a year.

Photosynthesis, greenness and growth had broadly varying responses to changing rainfall patterns from studies carried out across the globe. In 42% of cases, plants fared worse in the face of less frequent, more intense rainfall. In 35% of cases, plants improved, while in 23% of cases, plants stayed approximately the same.

This change in rain patterns is just one layer of climate change, Feldman said. Plants will also interact with other long-term climatic changes, including increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations and increasing air temperatures.

"Plants are responsible for the largest flux of carbon on global land," he said. "These plant responses to daily rainfall variability will be critical to determine holistically because they influence crop yields and how much human-emitted carbon is taken up from the atmosphere."

Feldman conducted the study along with colleagues from the University of Minnesota, Montana State University, Stanford University, Colorado State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and NASA Goddard Spaceflight Center.

Next, the team is working on a global analysis of how plants respond to changes to more intense, less frequent rainfall using different satellite measurements. They also plan to investigate whether plants have an optimal frequency of rainfall to which they may maximize their photosynthesis and growth.

"If we want to have any hope of accurately predicting the effects of more extreme rainfall on plants, we need to devote more work to understanding the underlying soil and plant processes that drive these different responses, especially at the timescale of individual rainstorms and the dry days in between," said Feldman.

More information: Andrew F. Feldman et al, Plant responses to changing rainfall frequency and intensity, Nature Reviews Earth & Environment (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s43017-024-00534-0 Journal information: Nature Reviews Earth & Environment
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Arshpreet Khattra was the lead author of a study that developed a framework for food processors to preserve quality and maintain food safety. Credit: University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Sometimes the processing that makes food safe can compromise flavor and nutrients, but food scientist Jennifer Acuff is looking for a way to make food safe and minimize loss of quality.

Food processors often use heat for pasteurization or sterilization to make food products safe by killing pathogens like salmonella and listeria, but high temperatures can degrade food quality. To ensure food safety, the industry sometimes relies on overly stringent standards that unnecessarily reduce food quality, said Jennifer Acuff, assistant professor of food microbiology and safety for the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, the research arm of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Focusing on low-moisture food products like powdered milk, Acuff and her team performed a study seeking a method that guarantees food safety while retaining the most vitamins, minerals and flavor depending on the food.

"This collaborative approach encompassed microbiology, engineering, and statistics to provide the food industry with what we believe will be a tool to improve safety without compromising quality of their dried food products," Acuff said.

The process is not limited to low-moisture foods and may extend to other foods and processes, Acuff added.

Using data from a study on a harmless "surrogate" microorganism and a statistical technique called "bootstrapping," the researchers developed a framework to provide food processors options within U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines.

"We have proposed a methodology to pick a value between the most liberal and most conservative food processing approaches based on risk tolerances," said Jeyam Subbiah, head of the food science department. "The industry can use this methodology to pick a value and petition the FDA for approval."

While there is no specific FDA rule, the government currently asks the food processing industry to make a petition for a case-by-case review.

The study, "Bootstrapping for Estimating the Conservative Kill Ratio of the Surrogate to the Pathogen for Use in Thermal Process Validation at the Industrial Scale," was published online by the Journal of Food Production in March.

"Surrogates are like dummies used in crash testing to validate car safety," Subbiah said. "They are non-pathogenic microorganisms, which should have similar or higher heat resistance than the actual pathogen. Often, they are a lot more resistant."

Scientists use a "log cycle reduction," or LCR for short, to calculate how effectively a process kills harmful microorganisms. "Log" refers to the logarithm scale, and 1-log represents a 10-fold reduction equivalent to a 90% reduction in bacteria. A 2-log reduction would be a 99% reduction, 3-log 99.9%, and so on. A 6-log reduction is a 99.9999% reduction.

When surrogate microorganisms are used for food safety challenge studies for sterilization of canned foods, the Institute of Food Thermal Processing Specialists recommends a "simple mean," or average, kill ratio to validate food safety at an industrial scale. For example, Subbiah said if sterilization called for a "12-log" reduction of the pathogen and the surrogate was twice as resistant, a processor could show a "6-log" kill of the surrogate, and the FDA would accept it as equivalent.

However, the drawback of that method is that it does not consider the variability of microorganisms, both the pathogen and the surrogate, Subbiah noted.

Although less prone to foodborne pathogens than fresh meats and dairy, low-moisture foods are not immune. Various types of salmonella have been implicated in 15 deaths, thousands of illnesses, and hundreds of hospitalizations over the past 20 years due to infected low-moisture foods like dried fruits and vegetables, nuts, herbs, flour and spices.

After those food safety outbreaks, the food industry "swung to the conservative mode" in food safety challenge studies, Subbiah said, by requiring the same level of log reduction of the surrogate.

For example, if sterilization of spices calls for a 12-log reduction of salmonella, the industry would show a 12-log reduction of the surrogate even though it can be twice as resistant as the pathogen. While this assures a high level of food safety, nutrients may be degraded due to severe thermal processing, Subbiah explained.

Calculating the risk

As a food science graduate student in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, Arshpreet Khattra used previously published data from Subbiah's lab involving the surrogate Enterococcus faecium to develop a solution for preserving quality in thermal processing. She applied the bootstrapping technique to estimate the distribution of kill ratio in milk powders rather than calculate the "simple mean," or average, kill ratio.

With bootstrapping, scientists can deal with uncertainty in experimental data by generating many samples instead of assuming a specific distribution. The technique calls for randomly picked data points from the original data to give researchers a good idea of how much the results may vary due to chance. It has been used in various studies to improve food processing methods and assess the food safety risks of different microbes in various foods.

From the estimate of kill ratio distribution, the final kill ratio can be calculated on a sliding scale of risk, Subbiah noted. In a hypothetical example, to have a 1% risk level, a processor may want a 9-log reduction of the surrogate, which is a 99.9999999% reduction. A 5% risk level would call for an 8-log reduction, and a 10% risk would call for a 6.5-log decrease of the surrogate to be equivalent to a 12-log reduction of the pathogen. A 12-log reduction is typically called sterilization and a 4- to 5-log reduction qualifies as pasteurization.

This method strikes a balance between killing harmful bacteria and preserving quality, Subbiah said.

More information: Arshpreet Kaur Khattra et al, Bootstrapping for Estimating the Conservative Kill Ratio of the Surrogate to the Pathogen for Use in Thermal Process Validation at the Industrial Scale, Journal of Food Protection (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2024.100264 Journal information: Journal of Food Protection

Provided by University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
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The only remaining major wildebeest migration is the "Great Migration" in the Serengeti-Mara. Credit: Mogens Trolle

Whether by way of Attenborough, Disney or National Geographic, the iconic scene is familiar to many. The ground trembles and clouds of dust swirl as enormous hordes of large animals thunder across the African savanna, cross rivers en masse and are picked off by lions, hyena and crocodiles.

The annual migration of 1.3 million wildebeest through Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists, and the phenomenon has put the Serengeti on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites. Besides its majestic sight, the migration of this emblematic species is important for the ecological functioning of ecosystems.

Unfortunately, epic annual migrations of this scale are only found in a few places on the African continent now. In some areas, roads, fences, farms and urban sprawl have fractured the historic migratory routes of wildebeest herds and prevented them from roaming far and wide in search of fresh grass and water. A new study published in Nature Communications led by researchers from the University of Copenhagen shows that the genetic health of wildebeest has suffered as a consequence.

"No one ever knew that this affected the genetics of wildebeest. But our results clearly show that wildebeest populations which no longer migrate, but have historically done so, are simply less genetically healthy than those that continue to migrate. And this weakens their chances of long-term survival," says Rasmus Heller, an associate professor at the Department of Biology and one of the new study's lead authors.

The results demonstrate that the genetic decline of non-migratory populations is reflected in several of the parameters by which genetic health is measured in nature conservation.

"Wildebeest that can no longer migrate have lower genetic diversity, are more genetically isolated and are more inbred. We expect this to lead to lower survival, reduced fertility and other negative effects on fitness," says Xiaodong Liu, one of the study's first authors and a postdoc at the Department of Biology.

Vulnerable to climate change

Overall, this iconic savanna grazer is not currently threatened. But in the long term, wildebeest herds that can no longer migrate will likely be worse off, for example, in the face of climate change.

"The long-term consequence is that populations with low genetic diversity are less equipped to cope with the effects of environmental changes. Their evolutionary potential is reduced. So, if climatic changes continue to occur, there isn't as much genetic variation for them to work with to adaptwhich could ultimately threaten their survival," says Heller.

Researchers analyzed the whole genomes of 121 wildebeest from their entire range, which spans from South Africa to Kenya. This is the first time that scientific researchers have studied the genetic effect of migration in wildebeest.

"Because we studied the genomes of many wildebeest from virtually their entire range, we have been able to make a general genetic comparison of migratory versus non-migratory populations. And because we witness a consistent difference across multiple locations, the conclusion is clear. Indeed, we can say that the overall negative effect is evident in those wildebeest that have been prevented from migratingregardless of where they live on the continent," says Liu.

Planned road and rail corridors threaten the last great migration

While the total number of wildebeest remains fairly stable, many local populations have experienced steep declines and several have even collapsed in recent decades.

One hundred and fifty years ago, many wildebeest populations made great migrations. However, forty years ago, only two large intact wildebeest migrations remained in Africa: the famed Great Migration of the Serengeti-Mara and one in the Kalahari Desert of southern Africa.

"However, in Botswana in particular, fencing to protect cattle from coming into contact with migratory wild animals was put up in recent times. Botswana's Kalahari population declined from roughly 260,000 in the 1970s to fewer than 15,000 in the late 1980s. So today, the only remaining large population is that of the Serengeti-Mara.

Map showing the current distribution range of the two wildebeest species, the blue wildebeest and the black wildebeest, based on IUCN distribution data. Map prepared by Laura D. Bertola. Credit: Laura D. Bertola

"But the Serengeti-Mara migration is also threatened by plans for roads and rail corridors through the area, which worries many," says Mikkel Sinding from the Department of Biology, another of the study's first authors.

"As a species, wildebeest are dependent on migrations to support their large numbers. They can survive in resident, non-migratory populations, but their numbers simply shrink when they cannot migrate. For example, we see this in the populations in the other parts of Kenya and Tanzania that have been prevented from migrating and whose numbers have decreased as a result," says co-author Joseph O. Ogutu, a senior statistician in the Biostatistics Unit at the University of Hohenheim, who adds,

"The migrations of wildebeest make them a keystone species in ecosystems, as their grazing keeps vegetation healthy, transports and distributes nutrients, while they themselves serve as prey for predators and carrion for scavengers.

"Therefore, it isn't just the iconic animal that we threaten when we prevent them from migratingbut many other species as well. And to that, we might add the enormous amount of tourism revenue that benefits governments and local communities."

Call to decision-makers

The researchers hope that the new results will inspire investigations into the genetic effects of reduced migration among other species. And they hope that decision-makers keep the consequences in mind:

"The study shows us that wild animal species, for whom migration is an essential part of their biology, struggle to survive in an increasingly human-dominated world, unless special attention is paid to preserving their old and natural migratory routes.

"As such, we hope that people will be more cautious about continuing to disrupt these routes. This concern is not just with regards to wildebeest, but also for other migratory species in Africa and elsewhere," says Heller.

"If we want the species to not just exist for, say, the next 50 years, but to thrive and actually survive in the much longer term, we need to halt the genetic decay caused by curtailing their natural migration routes."

Migrating wildebeest under pressure

There are two species of wildebeest, or gnu; The common wildebeestalso known as blue wildebeest/brindled gnu (Connochaetes taurinus) and the black wildebeest/white-tailed gnu (Connochaetes gnou). The common wildebeest/gnu is by far the most abundant and widespread species.

Wildebeest are grass-eating ungulates (or hoofed mammals) in the Bovidae family, which also includes true antelopes, cattle, goats, sheep, and other even-toed horned ungulates. Among its closest relatives are the hartebeest, blesbok and bontebok antelopes.

The common wildebeest lives on the grasslands and savannas of eastern and southern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa, Eswatini and Angola). Though now extinct in Malawi, they have been reintroduced in Namibia.

It is estimated that there are approximately 1.55 million common wildebeest and 18,000 white-tailed wildebeest.

The largest population of common wildebeest, the Serengeti-Mara population, is estimated to number about 1.5 million animals.

The only remaining major wildebeest migration is the "Great Migration" in the Serengeti-Mara. Here, approximately 1.3 million wildebeest, accompanied by about 200,000 zebras and 400,000 gazelles, cover up to 3,000 kilometers annually in a clockwise cycle that follows seasonal rainfall patterns. But only the wildebeest and zebra from the Serengeti cross the Mara river into Kenya's Masai Mara.

Due to limited source material on African wildlife populations prior to the mid-1800s, the total number of historical wildebeest migrations is uncertain. However, it is known that migrations comparable to that of the Serengeti-Masai Mara population have been lost.

An example of this relates to two wildebeest subspecies known as the white-bearded wildebeestthe Western white-bearded wildebeest, which makes up the Serengeti-Mara population, and the Eastern white-bearded wildebeest, whose migration was centered around Kenya's Kajiado County.

From early European explorers and the first big game hunters, we know that both of these subspecies migrated a great deal historically. And, that they had very large populations, presumably of approximately similar size. While the Western white-bearded wildebeest was protected in the Serengeti-Mara from the early 1950s, increased human presence and activities dating back to the early 1900s put mounting pressure on the Eastern white-bearded subspecies.

Today, only 6,0008,000 Eastern white-bearded wildebeest remain and are divided into many, small isolated populations.

More information: Introgression and disruption of migration routes have shaped the genetic integrity of wildebeest populations, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47015-y. www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-47015-y Journal information: Nature Communications
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NASA's Europa Clipper Spacecraft is headed for one of Jupiter's moons to see if it has the right conditions to sustain life.

US space scientists on Thursday unveiled the interplanetary probe NASA plans to send to one of Jupiter's icy moons as part of humanity's hunt for extra-terrestrial life.

The Clipper spacecraft is due to blast off in October bound for Europa, one of dozens of moons orbiting the solar system's biggest planet, and the nearest spot in our celestial neighborhood that could offer a perch for life.

"One of the fundamental questions that NASA wants to understand is, are we alone in the cosmos?" Bob Pappalardo, the mission's project scientist told AFP.

"If we were to find the conditions for life, and then someday actually find life in a place like Europa, then that would say in our own solar system there are two examples of life: Earth and Europa.

"That would be huge for understanding how common life might be throughout the universe."

The $5 billion probe is currently at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, sitting in a "clean room"a sealed area only accessible to people wearing head-to-toe covering.

The precautions are to ensure the probe remains free of contaminants to avoid transporting Earthly microbes to Europa.

After transport to Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Clipper is set to launch aboard a Space X Falcon Heavy rocket and begin an over-five-year journey that involves a pass by Mars to pick up speed.

In 2031, it should be in orbit around Jupiter and Europa, where it will begin a detailed study of the moon scientists believe is covered in frozen water.

"We have instruments like cameras, and spectrometers, a magnetometer and a radar that can... penetrate right through ice, bounce off liquid water and back to the surface to tell us how thick is the ice and where is liquid water located," Pappalardo said.

Mission managers do not expect to find little green men swimming in the waterin fact, they're not even looking for life itself, only for the conditions that could support it.

Scientists know from extreme environments on Earthlike light-starved geothermal vents located deep under the polar ice capthat tiny beings can find purchase almost anywhere.

And conditions on Europa, which is almost as large as Earth's moon, could provide a similar habitat, offering the tantalizing prospect we are not alonenot even in our own solar system.

"If moons around planets far away from stars could hold life, then the number of opportunities around the solar system, around the universe, where life could take hold, I think goes up dramatically," said Jordan Evans, project manager for the Europa Clipper mission.

Challenges

The science is not easya powerful radiation field around Europa could degrade the instruments, which will be getting the equivalent of 100,000 chest X-rays every circuit around the moon.

The vast distances involved mean that when Clipper sends its data back, the signal will take 45 minutes to arrive at Mission Control.

And despite its massive solar array, which unfurls once in space, keeping Clipper powered will be a major challenge, Evans said.

"Right after launch, (the solar panels are) putting out 23,000 watts... but when we're out at Jupiter, so far away from the sun, they're only putting out 700 watts," he said.

"Near Earth, they could power 20 houses continuously. And when we're at Jupiter, just a few light bulbs and some small appliances."

The mission, planning for which began in the late 1990s, is expected to conclude around 2034, when Clipper will likely have reached the end of its useful life.

The probe will then have one final port of call: Jupiter's largest moon, deputy project manager Tim Larson said.

"After we're done with the science mission, the way we end is by crashing into one of the other bodies in the Jovian system to dispose of the spacecraft," he said.

"Right now, the plan is to go into Ganymede."

 2024 AFP
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Almost two decades ago, the inaugural State of Black California report was the first to provide a comprehensive look at how the material conditions and socioeconomic outcomes for Black Californians fared compared to other racial and ethnic groups.

The latest report, published by the Black Policy Project, an initiative of the UCLA Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies, builds upon its predecessor by providing a comparative analysis with a sobering message: Despite improvements in the quality of life for Black communities in California since 2000, racial inequality stubbornly persists and may continue to do so for centuries to come unless more is done.

Utilizing the "Equality Index," which was modeled after one developed by international consulting group Global Insight Inc., the researchers found that Black Californians' overall socioeconomic outcomes improved by an average of 21.7% in the state based on census data from 2000 to 2020.

The analysis was informed by an extensive set of outcome data in economics, housing, health, education, criminal justice and civic engagement, with the largest improvements occurring in education.

Yet in 2020, compared to white Californians, who serve as the baseline for the Equality Index at a score of 1.00, researchers also found that Black Californians had the lowest score (0.69) of all racial minority groups. This means that the outcomes of Black residents scored 30% lower than white Californians across all analyzed socioeconomic measures. Other racial and ethnic groups' scores were 0.72 for Latinos, 0.74 for Indigenous Californians and 1.14 for Asian Pacific Islanders.

Additionally, Black Californians were only able to close the overall racial gap in social and economic outcomes with whites by a mere 4%, or three index points (0.66 to 0.69), since 2000.

"According to that rate of change, closing the racial gap between Black and white Californians would take over 248 years," said Michael Stoll, faculty director of the Black Policy Project and author of the report.

Stoll, a professor of public policy, co-authored the original report, which looked at Black Californians in 2000 and was commissioned by the California Legislative Black Caucus under the leadership of former California State Assembly Majority Leader and current Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

Since then, the state's Black population declined for the first time in decades, dropping from 2.2 million to 2.1 million. The Black population represented 5.6% of the state's population in 2020, compared to 6.6% in 2000. Once home to the second-largest metro Black population, Oakland saw a significant decline (46%) in Black residents. Only two regions saw growth in their Black population: the Inland Empire, which had the highest regional Equality Index score for Black Californians, and Sacramento.

The findings of the report demonstrate the impact of gentrification and high housing costs, which limited the economic progress of Black Californians and led to the shrinkage of Black communities in the state's major metropolitan areas; nearly a quarter (24%) of the state's Black residents (up from 17% in 2000) now live outside the urban centers of San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles and Oakland, likely because of housing affordability issues.

The decline in Black homeownership between 2000 and 2020 was nearly 6%, while other ethnic groups did not experience the same decrease over the same period. For Black renters, the median monthly rent increased by over $400, as the report also shows a 12% increase of Black Californians being rent-burdened, spending 30% or more of their income on rent. The median income for Black households also remained largely the same, while other ethnic groups saw increased earnings of over $10,000 in that same period.

In addition, despite aggregate improvement on the overall Equality Index, communities in Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco and San Jose experienced a widening of the gap in outcomes, with drops in homeownership and income gains.

As California looks to advance racial equity and continues to examine reparations proposals, Bunche Center Director Lorrie Frasure hopes the state's leaders take a deeper look at the report findings.

"The Equality Index's measures can help our leaders and lawmakers to better understand the lasting impacts of racial inequality on Black Californians' social and economic opportunities," said Frasure, who holds the Ralph J. Bunche Endowed Chair and is a professor of political science and African American Studies.

The researchers also encourage California leaders to use this study as a metric for the pandemic's absolute impact on Black life, establishing a baseline for the conditions and disparities experienced by Black communities before the pandemic. Moving beyond census data, Frasure states that the Bunche Center will launch consistent and ongoing data collection efforts around socioeconomics, health, education, housing and civic engagement, to better understand the patterns found in the report and move toward policy solutions to close the gap for Black Californians.

The report emphasizes at least one path to help narrow the racial inequality gap: Black Californians made progress in issue areas where public policy action took place. Steps like improving access to more required courses for the University of California and California State University systems and implementing criminal justice reforms, such as Proposition 47 and 57, had a marked positive impact on educational and criminal justice outcomes.

"These findings are meant to guide the development of new solutions and to build upon successful programs," Stoll said. "Although there is a long way to go, the data shows that with investment and action, the lives and socioeconomic outcomes of Black Californians can significantly improve."
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Water levels at Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe have dropped dramatically because of the latest El Nino drought. The country's president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has declared a national disaster.

Historian and social scientist Joshua Matanzima grew up at Lake Kariba and has spent the past 10 years researching socioeconomic life there. He discusses the impact of the latest drought on the people of the area.

Where is Kariba Dam and what purposes does it serve?

The 280 kilometer long, man-made Lake Kariba is part of the Kariba Dam, which was built between 1955 and 1959 in the Zambezi river basin between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The dam provides hydroelectric power to the Kariba north power station on the Zambian side and Kariba south power station on the Zimbabwean side. These provide most of the electricity for the two nations.

The remote Kariba Dam, about five hours' drive from Zimbabwe's capital city, Harare, and a three hour drive from Zambia's capital, Lusaka, also supports fisheries, conservation, tourism and recreation. Over 100,000 people live in Kariba town and the Nyaminyami and Binga rural districts. It is also a religious site and locals believe it shelters their ancestors and Nyaminyami, the river god.

Water levels have been falling. What are the causes?

Since the early 2010s, the El Nino weather pattern has induced droughts and heat waves in the Zambezi region, causing a drop in the water levels at Lake Kariba. EL Nino is an unusual warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean that brings hotter temperatures and much lower rainfall to southern Africa for five months at a time.

By 8 April 2024, the Zambezi River Authority, which owns and manages Lake Kariba, announced that water in the lake had dropped to just 13.52% of its capacity. Water levels in the lake fluctuate according to the rainfallthis time last year, the lake was 21.94% full, but levels dropped as low as 12% in 2015.

What are the four biggest effects on local communities?

Low water levels in Lake Kariba have had a huge impact on the people in the area. The key areas of concern are:

Survival. Many people survive directly off the lake, by catching and selling fish. The drought reduces fish spawning areas, which means that fishers who live near Lake Kariba catch very few fish during times of drought. My research has found that during times of drought in Kariba, crocodiles take fish from the fishers' nets and destroy the nets. In retaliation, fishers attack crocodiles with spears and logs, exposing themselves to crocodile attacks.

Human-wildlife conflict. The area is already a hotspot for human-wildlife conflict. A drop in the water levels results in increased competition over water resources between people and wild animals, resulting in human-wildlife conflict. Animals that normally drink water from far-away river estuaries start approaching the parts of the lake populated by humans. Clashes between elephants, buffalo, baboons, lions and humans increase as they have to share reduced waterscapes.

Poaching. There's also an increase in poaching as impala, kudu, waterbuck and duiker move closer to human settlements to seek water and people seek more sources of food and income due to the economic downturn caused by the drought.

Tourism. Numbers drop off. Game drives along the lake to the estuaries, which have unique flora and fauna and allow tourists a closer view of wild animals and birds, come to a standstill during times of drought. Tourist fishing in the estuaries dries up. The opening of the floodgates at the dam walls, which were a drawcard for tourism, stops as the water levels are too low for this.

Long walks to collect water. Water level reductions burden women and children from surrounding fishing camps and villages who fetch water for home use from the lake. In my research, residents of the area say that water levels have dropped so much that fishing camps are now up to 2 km further away from the lake than they were before the drought. Women and children from fishing camps have even been injured and killed by wild animals as they fetch water in the lake.

Trade is disrupted. Cross border traders based in Kariba who do business between Zimbabwe and Zambia are also affected. Kariba traders often cross the border to sell fish in Zambia, but with low catches this is no longer possible. Also, most traders depended on income from fishing to purchase goods from Zambia for resale in Zimbabwe.

What can the government do to help?

Proactive measures are required to minimize harm to lives and livelihoods. Over the long term, droughts could become more severe and the Kariba Dam could stop producing as much power. The Lake Kariba region is a very hot and windy region that can support both onshore and offshore wind turbines and solar parks. The government must plan for this, so that local communities can have sustainable electricity with renewable energy projects that support alternative livelihoods.

The national parks authorities in both Zimbabwe and Zambia also need to put in robust measures for decreasing the number of human-wildlife conflicts. This can be done by identifying areas of high animal activity at the lake and directing humans away from this. Communities are also unaware of the relationship between a drop in water levels and human-wildlife conflict, and more awareness should be created about this.

The water governing authorities in the Zambezi area should also draw on local knowledge and practices in times of drought. For example, the authorities could promote the rainmaking ceremonies by local traditional groups of the Tonga, Shangwe and Korekore. These groups have lived in the area for centuries and believe that water drops are a result of angry ancestral and water spirits, including Nyaminyami, the river god. The governing authorities may want to fund more of such ceremonies as local communities lack funds to enact the ceremonies.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Some 10 million people in the Colombian capital and surrounds will be impacted by measures which started Thursday and impose 24-hours of no water every ten days, according to the sector they live in.

Residents of Bogota are facing fewer showers, minimal laundry loads and dirty cars as the Colombian capital imposes water rations due to a severe drought aggravated by the El Nino climate phenomenon.

Bogota has become the latest major city around the world to face a water crisis in recent years due to intense dry spells and President Gustavo Petro vowed Thursday to boost investment to protect the valuable resource.

Some 10 million people in the Colombian capital and surrounds are being impacted by new restrictions that impose 24-hour water cuts every ten days by sector.

"The situation is critical," said Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan.

In the mountainous suburb La Calera in the sprawling Andean city, residents have already suffered occasional cuts since February, often resorting to tanker trucks that wind through the steep streets to deliver drinking water.

"There are things we can no longer do, like washing the car," said Clara Escobar, 36, a graphic designer who came to fill two buckets from the tanker.

"We shower less" and "we wash the clothes (only) when necessary."

Dams lowest in decades

Lorena Lee, 46, who owns a cafeteria in La Calera, predicts she will not open on the days the suburb is affected by cuts as she cannot prepare food without water.

The dams supplying Bogota with water are at their lowest levels in decades.

"Obviously this affects a day of sales ... but there is nothing to do."

A lack of rain and unusual heat has seen Colombia's reservoirs dry up at an alarming rate.

The Chingaza paramoan alpine wetland system rich in glacial lakesprovides some 70 percent of Bogota's drinking water, and its dams are at their lowest level since 1980.

Environment Minister Susana Muhamad said significant rains were only expected at the end of April or early May.

Colombia is blessed with abundant freshwater sources.

Nevertheless, millions lack access to clean water as a result of severe water pollution, deforestation, and agriculture.

'Substantial change'

In a lengthy post on X, President Gustavo Petro said he had ordered "a substantial change" to ensure that in the next 30 years, the entire population has clean water.

"There will be droughts worse than the one we are facing," he said, adding that Bogota residents could now judge whether "unhindered urbanization" was sustainable.

Graphic designer Clara Escobar collects drinking water from a water truck in La Calera, near Bogota.

He said half of the country's water supply depends on its moors, jungles and Andean forests "that have already been pillaged by 80 percent for agriculture or mining for construction."

Petro said the country had long prioritized urbanization at the expense of the "serious financing of adaptation to climate change."

He said at current investment levels it would take a century to provide clean drinking water and proper sanitation to the 17 million people who currently do not have it.

Petro added that providing these people with drinking water would cost $26 billion.

"That is absurdly irrational in the midst of a climate crisis that will worsen due to the growing consumption of coal and oil in rich northern societies."

Major cities around the globe are considered at risk of running out of water due to human activities and climate change-linked droughts.

Mexico saw 21 percent less rainfall than usual in 2023its driest year since records beganand reservoirs serving the capital of 20 million people have plummeted, sparking supply cuts and jitters among residents.

In 2023, residents of Uruguay's capital of Montevideo turned en masse to bottled water as reservoirs dropped so low that authorities had to mix brackish river water into the drinking supply and up the allowed sodium and chloride levels.

And, residents of the South African city of Cape Town narrowly escaped so-called "Day Zero" when taps would have run dry in 2018 due to a multi-year drought.

 2024 AFP
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Marta Arretche during her lecture at FAPESP Week Illinois. Credit: Elton Alisson/Agencia FAPESP

The theories offered by the dominant literature in political science today to try to explain the sources of the political polarization that has endangered democracy around the world are adequate for the United States and Europe, but do not make sense for the countries of Latin America. For this reason, greater collaboration among political scientists is needed to identify other, more plausible hypotheses for the phenomenon that the region is also experiencing.

The assessment was made by researchers participating in a panel discussion on democracy and social inclusion held on April 9 in Chicago (United States) during FAPESP Week Illinois.

"There's an avenue for possible research collaboration between Latin American and North American political scientists, for example, to advance in identifying the sources of political polarization in the two regions and to overcome this challenge in the literature. We have a lot of data and interest in working together to better understand this phenomenon," said Marta Arretche, professor at the University of Sao Paulo (USP) in Brazil and researcher at the Center for Metropolitan Studies (CEM)a FAPESP Research, Innovation and Dissemination Center (RIDC).

According to the researcher, the most influential literature in the social sciences today, mainly in the United States and Europe, establishes a positive link between social inequality and political polarization to explain the rise in electoral strength of extreme right-wing parties and the threats to democratic institutions.

According to this theory, wealthier democracies have experienced an increase in social inequality, which would be the cause of voter support for the proposals of far-right parties.

"According to this theory, the left-wing parties have somehow abandoned their traditional electorate and implemented pro-rich policies, and so the right-wing parties have exploited the discontent of the poorest, who have lost out in the current democratic regimes. But recent research in Latin America, and Brazil in particular, provides good evidence that this may not be true for countries in the region," Arretche said.

Ongoing postdoctoral research at the CEM on the determinants of political polarization in Latin America shows that although the Gini index (a measure of social inequality) has decreased since the early 2000s, political polarization in Latin American countries has increased over the same period.

"There's evidence for Latin America that doesn't confirm the positive association between increases in inequality and increases in polarization. On the contrary, it shows a negative association," Arretche said.

Another study, available as a working paper on the SSRN Electronic Journal and also conducted by Brazilian political scientists, on how the perception of gaining or losing social status influences the political positions of the Brazilian electorate, showed that those who vote for left-wing parties in the country are those who believe they have gained centrality in the political arena in the last 20 years. On the other hand, those who voted for right-wing parties perceive themselves as having lost centrality in recent years.

"The conclusion of the authors of this study also goes in the opposite direction of the dominant literature on the United States and Europe. They conclude that the progressive policies implemented by left-wing parties in Brazil since the early 2000s have shaped the political divide that exists today," Arretche explains.

On the other hand, another ongoing study conducted by the researcher and her collaborators also provides some evidence of disenchantment among Workers' Party (PT) voters in recent years.

"The party has lost support among its own voters during the crises that Brazil has gone through in the last five years," Arretche said.

Political crisis

The changes that have taken place in Brazil since 2013, marked by a very intense political crisis, have changed the behavior of actors and generated instability in the pillars of coalition presidentialism in the country, pointed out Andrea Freitas, coordinator of the Center for Public Opinion Studies at the State University of Campinas (CESOP-UNICAMP).

This parliamentary regime that exists in Brazil and other countries, in which the president tries to form coalitions because he doesn't have a majority in the legislature, could change its configuration in the country, the researcher said.

"My hypothesis is that given the long period of political crisis that Brazil has gone through in the last ten years, there's been a real change in the behavior of political actors in the country, and we're no longer going back to the same institutional bases of coalition presidentialism. We're going to have to build a different relationship," Freitas said.

Health inequalities

Brazil and other countries have also undergone transformations in other areas, such as health, that may contribute to increasing levels of inequality in the country, explained Rudi Rocha, a professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) in Sao Paulo.

One of these changes is the aging of the population, which means that health systems not only in Brazil but in many other countries will have to deal with an increasing number of chronic diseases and other conditions that are more expensive to treat, Rocha noted.

"In the past, health systems in countries like Brazil only had to deal with childhood infectious diseases, which are cheap to treat through vaccination, for example. Now, in low- and middle-income countries, inequalities will eventually increase if they don't have the capacity to meet the challenges of an aging population," he said.

The public sector's difficulty in raising sufficient funds to meet health care needs opens up opportunities for the private sector to enter and expand its presence, the researcher pointed out.

"This is already happening in many places around the world, and it could also be a vector of inequality. Ultimately, only those who can afford it will have access to private health care," Rocha said.

Another vector of social inequality in the country is climate change, which has a more direct impact on poor people, who don't have access to health care, the researcher stressed.

More information: David J. Samuels et al, Polarization and Perceptions of Status Gain and Loss: The Case of Brazil, SSRN Electronic Journal (2024). DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.4727821

Provided by FAPESP
Recognizing the rising popularity of traditional Chinese music, which has been winning over a growing number of fans, especially young people, in 2022, the China National Traditional Orchestra and the National Centre for the Performing Arts launched a festival titled Spring of Traditional Chinese Music.

Now, two years later, the second iteration of the festival has begun. The monthlong celebration of Chinese musical heritage runs from March 31 to April 27 and will feature 19 concerts performed by 15 orchestras from the Chinese mainland, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Taiwan, as well as Singapore.

"When we made plans for the opening concert for this year's Spring of Traditional Chinese Music, we had five conductors in mind. They represent the top level of traditional Chinese music, not only at home, but also abroad," says Zhao Cong, a veteran pipa (a four-stringed lute) player, who is also the president of the China National Traditional Orchestra. "We are very excited that they are all attending the festival.

"As a musician who has been playing the pipa ever since I was a child, I am so happy to see that traditional Chinese music has become popular among young people, with a greater number of people listening to, and learning, these old instruments," says Zhao.

The five conductors are Liu Sha, who is the principal conductor of the China National Traditional Orchestra, Liu Chiang-pin, artistic director and conductor of the Hsinchu City Youth Chinese Orchestra, Pang Kapang, who is the chief conductor and artistic director of the Suzhou Chinese Orchestra, Yan Huichang, the artistic director and principal conductor of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, and Tsung Yeh, who is the conductor emeritus of the Singapore Chinese Orchestra.

During the opening concert at the NCPA, they shared the stage by conducting the China National Traditional Orchestra, with each of the conductors choosing a program of pieces lasting about 20 minutes.

"It was magical to have the orchestra perform under the batons of the five conductors, who each has a different style and interpretation of the music. It felt like listening to five different orchestras over the course of one night," says Zhao.

According to Wang Luli, deputy director of the program management department at the NCPA, the concerts during the festival bring established and young musicians together, to play classic pieces that display the essence of traditional Chinese music, and also play contemporary pieces to show the creativity of ancient Chinese instruments. A varied format, alternating from solos and duets, to ensemble performances, makes the festival a great chance for people to enjoy and rediscover the beauty of traditional Chinese music.

"For me, performing during this event in Beijing is like coming home," says conductor Yan, 70, who served as the principal conductor and artistic director of the China National Traditional Orchestra before he joined the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra in 1997. "Traditional Chinese music is well-preserved and is performed widely by Chinese orchestras located around the world, which sends a message about the lasting impact and popularity of traditional Chinese instruments. I am very proud of it."

On April 20, Yan will lead the Beijing Chinese Orchestra in a concert, featuring pieces on the theme of the four seasons. Since the concert will take place a day after Grain Rain  the sixth of the 24 solar terms  which marks the end of spring, pieces will include Ode to Spring and Moonlit River in Spring.

At the concert on March 31, Yan performed Happy Gathering, an excerpt from his original suite, Hainan Fengqing (The Charm of Hainan), with the China National Traditional Orchestra. He says that he composed Hainan Fengqing during a trip to the island province in southern China, where he was inspired by local folk music and dances.

"Since Hainan Fengqing has not yet been performed, it was a premiere for Happy Gathering, which I am honored to present in Beijing," adds Yan.

"Traditional Chinese music is a great medium for introducing Chinese culture, using instruments with hundreds or thousands of years of history and pieces that are performed worldwide," says maestro Yeh, 74, who led the Singapore Chinese Orchestra on its debut at the NCPA on April 5. Founded in 1997, the Singapore Chinese Orchestra is the country's only full-time professional Chinese orchestra. The Shanghai-born conductor took the reins of the orchestra in 2002 and in January 2023, was named conductor emeritus.

In 2022, conductors Lyu Jia and Li Xincao, who lead Chinese symphony orchestras and perform Western classical music, were invited to perform with traditional Chinese music performers. Their different approach to music provided audiences with a fresh perspective on traditional Chinese music.

On April 25, conductor Tan Lihua and the Beijing Symphony Orchestra will interpret traditional Chinese music pieces, merging the styles of the East and the West. Pipa player Wu Yuxia, guzheng (a zither-like traditional stringed instrument) player Wang Zhongshan, bamboo flutist Zhang Weiliang and erhu (a two-stringed, bowed instrument) player Song Fei will take part in the concert, playing well-known pieces such as Dream of Flying in the Sky and Moonlight Reflected on the Erquan Spring.

Zhao says that in 2022, a concert gathering a number of top Chinese pipa players to showcase the 2,000-year-old instrument ended the first Spring of Traditional Chinese Music.

This year, the guqin (a traditional seven-stringed zither), which was added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2008, will be highlighted during the closing concert.

On April 27, about 20 eminent guqin players, including Wu Na, Chen Leiji and Ding Chengyun, will gather to perform with the China National Traditional Orchestra and soloists of other instruments, such as xiao (a vertical bamboo flute) player Wang Jianxin and hand drummer Li Congnong.
Three people, including a 13-year-old girl, are dead and a 5-month-old is in state custody after what appears to be a domestic dispute that began in Iowa and ended with Dane County Sheriff's deputies being fired upon during a police chase Wednesday night and a man breaking into a home outside Stoughton where he later killed himself.

The Dane County and Dubuque County, Iowa, sheriff's offices on Thursday said 37-year-old Alexander C. Grunke, of Middleton, was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the basement of a home on Ramsey Road in the town of Albion just before 7 a.m. Thursday, hours after the man and the 13-year-old girl had both fired on officers on Washington Road using a handgun and a rifle.

The girl was later found dead in a wooded area; authorities did not release a cause of death or her name or where she lived, but Sheriff Kalvin Barrett referred to her as a "community member."

Barrett said his office became involved in the incident at about 5:30 when they were called to a residence in the town of Dunn by a family who reported that a man and a female, believed to be Grunke and the 13-year-old, dropped off the infant at their home. In a news release, the Dubuque sheriff said the man and the girl dropped the infant off with an "acquaintance."

Deputies shortly thereafter found the vehicle Grunke and the girl left in and tried to pull it over, but the vehicle fled.

"It went through numerous jurisdictions and both occupants of the vehicle fired their weapons at deputies and responding agencies," Barrett said. They were not hit and no law enforcement personnel were hurt, he said.

The Sheriff's Office used tire-deflation devices to stop the vehicle in the town of Albion, Barrett said, at which point the 13-year-old girl fled into the wooded area where she would later be found unresponsive. Life-saving measures by emergency responders could not save her, he said.

Grunke fled the scene as well and fired several rounds at the home on Ramsey Road before going inside and barricading himself in the basement, Barrett said. Deputies were able to get the family living in the home at the time out safely, he said.

After the Sheriff's Office tried unsuccessfully for several hours to contact the suspect, a robot was sent into the home and found him dead from an apparent suicide.

According to the Dubuque sheriff's office, it responded to a call Wednesday just after 7 p.m. about a possible homicide at 9866 Haxbylane Road in La Motte, a rural area south of the city of Dubuque.

Deputies arrived to find 32-year-old Tana Poppe dead and her 13-year-old daughter and 5-month-old infant, who lived with her, missing.

It was shortly thereafter that the department was notified that the person of interest in Poppe's death, Grunke, was involved in the vehicle pursuit in Dane County, the Dubuque Sheriff's Office said.

The owner of the Dubuque County farmhouse where the woman was found dead said he rented the property to a man about two years ago and that a woman with two children moved in with him about a month ago.

I met her a couple times and she seemed nice, said the landlord, who asked not to be identified. He declined to provide the name of the man who rented the property and said he did not know the name of the woman.

Quarry Kennels, 1399 Ramsey Road near the Albion residence, said on its Facebook page Thursday that "All family, staff & pets are safe" and that it was open Thursday for boarding pickup and dropoff, with other services canceled.

"Please be patient with us as we regroup and get back to a normal schedule," Quarry Kennels said.

State Journal reporter Barry Adams contributed to this report.

Where people in Iowa are moving to most Where people in Iowa are moving to most #25. Georgia #23. Virginia #22. South Carolina #21. Oregon #20. Pennsylvania #19. New Mexico #18. Indiana #17. Ohio #16. Washington #15. North Carolina #14. Nevada #13. New York #12. Kansas #11. Florida #10. California #9. Wisconsin #8. Colorado #7. South Dakota #6. Arizona #5. Minnesota #4. Nebraska #3. Missouri #2. Texas
A 35-year-old, Native-led non-profit organization is taking steps towards reuniting youth with sacred sites.

On April 11, the Cheyenne River Youth Project announced that it had purchased 40 acres of land adjacent to Bear Butte State Park in Meade County.

The project will hold a private dedication ceremony with youth from the Cheyenne River Reservation on April 26.

This purchase brings the CRYP into the larger Land Back movement, a generations-long effort to reunite Indigenous people with their ancestral lands.

Mato Paha, or Bear Butte, is one of the most sacred sites for the Lakota people. Access to Bear Butte was severed in the 19th century with the seizure of the Black Hills and dissolution of the Great Sioux Reservation into the modern-day Cheyenne River, Rosebud, Pine Ridge, Lower Brule, Crow Creek and Standing Rock reservations.

In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the United States had illegally taken the Black Hills, said Julie Garreau, CRYPs chief executive officer in an April 11 press release. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun wrote, A more ripe and rank case of dishonest dealings may never be found in our history.

Garreau said that many tribal citizens have to make a five-hour round trip to visit Bear Butte and often cant afford lodging prices. Garreau and her team thought it was important to make the purchase now as land values continue to skyrocket.

Now, with this land, we have a foundation, Garreau said. We will be able (to) bring our children here for culture camps, internship activities, workshops and physical activities, and we can take them on field trips to other important sites like Wind Cave, Black Elk Peak and Mato Tipila (Devils Tower).

The 40-acre tract comes with organic certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which Garreau said CRYP will maintain in perpetuity.

After 35 years of doing our work on the Cheyenne River reservation, we know that strengthening connections to culture, ancestors and sacred places are vital to healing historical trauma, Garreau said. This land is a place for our youth to feel the power and depth of those connections as they become caretakers themselves  and, ultimately, find healing.

To learn more about the Cheyenne River Youth Project and its programs, and for information about making donations and volunteering, call 605-964-8200 or visit www.lakotayouth.org.
China on Thursday voiced firm opposition to the European Union's (EU) subsidy investigations on Chinese wind turbine suppliers, calling such a move as "typical protectionism."

China has lodged serious representations to the European Commission on the move, Ministry of Commerce (MOC) spokesperson He Yadong said at a press conference.

The spokesperson said Chinese new energy companies, including those in the wind power sector, have rapidly developed to gain competitive advantages and secured a leading position globally through continuous technological innovation, a sound production and supply chain system, and full market competition. "This could not be achieved through subsidies."

Committed to providing high-quality products for the global efforts in coping with climate change, the Chinese new energy sector has made positive contributions to the green transformation of countries worldwide, including the EU, He said.

The EU's action contradicted the principle of free trade and seriously interfered normal industrial cooperation between China and the EU, the spokesperson said.

It will seriously affect the global efforts in responding to climate change and the green transformation process, undermine global investors' confidence in the EU market, and hinder the mutual trust between China and the EU, He added.

"China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes this action," the spokesperson said.

He said that the EU cannot advocate green cooperation under the banner of climate change on the one hand, but wield the big stick of trade protectionism to impose restrictions on normal international green trade and investment and practice double standards in addressing climate change on the other.

"Such move will turn the EU into an obstructer of global green transformation, an obstacle of China-EU investment cooperation, and a destroyer of mutual economic and trade trust between the two sides," He said.

The Chinese side hopes that the EU will abandon protectionist practice, return to the right track of win-win cooperation, and take solid steps to create a stable, fair, transparent and predictable competition environment for companies from China and the EU.

China will closely monitor the EU's subsequent actions and reserve the right to take necessary measures to resolutely protect the legal interests of Chinese firms, said the spokesperson.
A Chesterfield County Public Schools teacher has been charged after police say she assaulted a student at J.G. Hening Elementary School on March 19.

Police said Alice McCollum, 60, on Thursday was served with a releasable warrant after detectives investigated the alleged assault against a female student of the school.

McCollum has been charged with assault and battery, according to court records. She is next scheduled to appear in court on April 25. She could not immediately be reached for comment.

McCollum is at least the fifth CCPS employee to be charged in an altercation with a student since December.

after police say he kicked a student in the leg in November.

A Manchester High School teacher was charged on Feb. 5 after allegedly striking a student at the school.

after police say she assaulted a male student. The teaching assistant, Travonna Kenyear, denied the charges.

Chesterfield public schools spokesperson Shawn Smith said McCollum will not return to the school division pending adjudication of the charges. He did not answer an inquiry as to whether there was a concerning pattern of assault at Chesterfield schools.
Richmond police on Friday announced charges in a homicide that occurred April 6 in Richmonds East End.

According to court records, Juwan Lewis, 28, of Richmond was charged Monday with first-degree murder in the shooting death of Kyron Hoskey, 28, of Henrico County. Lewis has also been charged with use of a firearm in the commission of a felony and discharging a firearm into an occupied building.

His next court date could not immediately be determined.

Police said officers initially responded to a residence in the 2200 block of North 23rd Street at around 3:19 a.m. on April 6 for the reports of a shooting. At the scene, officers found Hoskey on the floor with an apparent gunshot wound.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

The incident remains under investigation.

Cats and dogs that need homes in the Richmond area
Lois Harrison-Jones, who began teaching at Richmond Public Schools in 1954, stood proudly on Friday morning when the school on Maplewood Avenue formerly known as John B. Cary Elementary School officially received its new name: Lois Harrison-Jones Elementary School.

In 1985, Harrison-Jones became the first female superintendent of RPS and the first Black female superintendent of a school division in Virginia. She later became the first Black female superintendent in Boston.

I believe that no school is any better than the four pillars that are established within the school, the first being the home, Harrison-Jones said Friday morning. You send us the most precious thing you have in your home, and they are your children.

She spent 34 years in RPS, starting as a sixth-grade teacher.

The Richmond School Board in 2022 voted to change the schools name as part of an ongoing effort to rename schools that were named for slave owners or Confederates.

Harrison-Jones said Friday that she hopes the educators who walk into the building adorned with her name are inspired to follow in her footsteps as a lifelong education professional.

When she left her post as RPS superintendent in 1988, she became the associate superintendent for Education of the Dallas school district and was named the superintendent of Boston Public Schools in 1991.

Harrison-Jones also taught at Harvard and Howard universities.

A native of Westmoreland, Jones is a graduate of Virginia State University and earned a doctorate in educational administration from Virginia Tech.

A couple of years ago, we decided here at Richmond Public Schools, that we were going to make sure the names of our schools reflected our values of inclusion, equity, justice and of creating a better future for our children and for the city, said RPS Superintendent Jason Kamras during the naming ceremony. I truly cannot think of anyone who better embodies these values more than Dr. Lois Harrison-Jones.

The school had previously been named for Col. John Baytop Cary, who was the Richmond school divisions superintendent from 1886 to 1889 and fought for the Confederacy during the Civil War. He had been an ardent defender of the South, according to the Dictionary of Virginia Biography. After the war, he was the Virginia representative on a committee chartered in 1896 to found and erect the Confederate Memorial Institute.

Kamras added: A few years ago, we decided to stop the practice of naming schools after people who fought against our values, who fought against, frankly, justice and equity, people who fought to preserve the institution of slavery.

The School Board also voted in 2022 to change the names of Ginter Park Elementary and Binford Middle. In 2023, it voted to change the name of George Wythe High School.

PHOTOS: Eid in Richmond
You are here: Business

An aerial drone photo taken on March 13, 2024 shows the expansion project of Yangpu international container terminal in south China's Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Hainan, China's southern island province, is ramping up efforts to develop itself into a free trade port (FTP), securing progress in high-level opening up, provincial governor Liu Xiaoming said Thursday.

Hainan has become a magnet for investment, attracting a surge in foreign capital, Liu told a news conference.

Since 2018, the number of newly established foreign-funded enterprises in Hainan has grown at an annual rate of 65 percent, reaching a total of 6,543, signaling a strong vote of confidence from international investors.

In addition to the corporate boom, the province has seen significant growth in duty-free shopping. In 2023, the number of shoppers and the total value of transactions climbed by 59.9 percent and 25.4 percent, respectively, year on year, highlighting the region's burgeoning appeal as a consumer haven.

The governor said Hainan is at the forefront of implementing high-standard economic and trade rules, steadily expanding its institutional openness.

He said the tropical province has introduced a series of new measures across key areas, including services trade, digital trade, intellectual property protection, and cross-border data flows, underscoring its commitment to a top-tier business environment.

Vigorous efforts are being made to ensure the smooth and timely operation of island-wide special customs clearance, including running stress tests, Liu added.

A master plan for the FTP released in 2020 aimed to build Hainan into a globally influential high-level FTP by the middle of the century.

An FTP system focusing on trade and investment liberalization and facilitation will be "basically established" in Hainan by 2025 and become "more mature" by 2035, according to the plan.

Liu said the policy and institutional framework of the Hainan FTP has basically been established.
Winds will be the big issue in Richmond on Friday with a few stray rain showers passing through. After a cool and sunny Saturday, an extended period of warm and dry weather begins on Sunday.

A quick surge of chilly air moves across Virginia on Friday, accompanied by west winds averaging 15 to 25 mph. And although there will be some cloudy areas with quick showers dotting the landscape, there will also be several sunnier periods.

That cool air holds on Saturday, but retreats as warm air across the Great Plains moves east into Virginia on Sunday. That warmer air will anchor over the Southeast for most of next week, unquestionably leading to the warmest and driest period so far this season.

Starting Sunday, afternoons will consistently be between the upper 70s to upper 80s, about 10 to 20 degrees above normal. Nights will initially edge into the 50s, so it will not have a midsummer feel, but this will be the week that most people turn on their air conditioners for the first time.

So far this year, Richmond has had only two days that were at least 80 degrees, and they came in consecutive days: March 14-15. This upcoming warm spell may shock the system a bit, as we have not collectively acclimated to summertime heat. Remember to hydrate or find some shady spots if you are working outside next week, as it will have the feeling of early June rather than the middle of April.

After a favorably wet couple of months, there is no good chance of rain next week. Expect the ground to dry out quickly in the warm afternoons, increasingly high sun angle, and moderately low humidity. Lack of rain will also allow the tree pollen to remain high all of next week.

Since the first of the year, Richmond has had 150% of normal rain, so streamflow is close to normal with no immediate risk of sudden drought. However, the prevailing winds aloft in the atmosphere  at jet stream level  will be from the west or northwest for another two weeks, making it especially difficult for a soaking rain to return.

As a result, drought may be something we need to start thinking about by the end of April.

The warm spell next week does not mean an early start to summer, as there are signs that temperatures will be much closer to normal toward the end of the month. But there are no signs of legitimately chilly air returning to the state in the next couple of weeks  and certainly no signs of a frost or freeze. For reference, normal high temperatures at the end of April are in the lower to middle 70s. Normal lows are in the 40s to near 50.

While early, Richmond is having one of its 10 warmest years on record so far in 2024, and the coming warm spell will help solidify that position as we move into the hotter summer months.

But for the shorter term, it will be more about antihistamine and sunscreen next week.

Top five weekend events: Richmond Poetry Fest, Chesterfield Outdoor Fest, Flying Squirrels Richmond Poetry Fest Flying Squirrels opening weekend Chesterfield Outdoor Fest 'Black Panther' & the Richmond Symphony Bizarre Bazaar Richmond Night Market
At a recent rally to preserve a Black history site entrusted upon Virginia Union University, historian Selden Richardson used the schools own words as an argument against the demolition of old Community Hospital.

The first 10 words of the mission statement of Virginia Union University are these: Virginia Union University is nurtured by its African American heritage, he said during the rally at the hospital building on Overbrook Road.

This seems cruelly ironic as no imagination, no vision, no maintenance and certainly no nurturing has been seen on this site in the 20 years VUU has had it. To claim the high ground of African American heritage and let this case of demolition by neglect of an African American heritage site proceed is shameful.

Virginia Union is partnering with New York-based Steinbridge Group to build up to 200 residences on acreage that includes the old Richmond Community Hospital. The university and Steinbridge will be joint owners and share the profits in a redevelopment touted as a first step in the colleges $500 million campus makeover.

When VUU announced the project in February, the hospital building was pronounced unsalvageable, setting off a community effort to save it. Since then, the university has struggled to alter the perception that it plans to demolish the building, but its attempts to shift the narrative have suffered from a lack of clarity and conviction.

VUU and Steinbridge sought to change this at an April 5 awards gala at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

Among the honorees were National Urban League President Marc Morial, Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and Steinbridge founding partner and CEO Tawan Davis, who received Virginia Unions HBCU Impact Award for its investment in Historically Black Colleges and Universities like VUU.

During his speech, Davis said: We are setting aside part of our commitment to honor the history, particularly the history of the Richmond Community Hospital at Virginia Union, with a $5.1 million commitment from our existing commitment to honor all those who were born, and worked, and built Virginia Union University, and this hospital, through its 160-year history.

But again, the message was imprecise. Whose history is being honored? That of VUU, which will celebrate its 160th anniversary next year, or the hospital, whose roots date to 1902 in Jackson Ward and once bore the name of Dr. Sarah Garland Boyd Jones, a trailblazing Black female physician?

The art deco Community Hospital building was completed in 1932 after a painstaking fundraising effort by Richmonds Black community during the Great Depression. For generations of Black Richmonders, it was a beacon of welcome in a city whose white hospitals remained segregated until the late 1950s. Our city remains populated with people with memories of the hospital, including a future newspaper columnist who had his tonsils removed there as a child.

Davis speech also raised the question of what honor means in terms of the hospital buildings preservation.

I dont think that is known yet, said Grant Neely, VUUs vice president of community relations, on Wednesday. What everybodys going to do is continue listening to the community and well soon lay out our own process for community engagement.

What does it mean? I cant say, because its not known yet. But I would observe that $5.1 million buys a lot more than a nice plaque.

Viola Baskerville, a leader of the Save Community Hospital effort, is skeptical.

I would question exactly what is meant by honoring the history, said Baskerville, a former member of the Richmond City Council and the Virginia House of Delegates, and a former state secretary of administration.

That is not the same thing as a commitment to make sure the building is NOT demolished but is rehabilitated and adaptively reused as part of Virginia Union Universitys development plans, she said in an email. In addition, $5 million seems insufficient when looking at the scope of the present structure.

She reiterated her call for Historic Richmond Foundation to independently assess the structure to inform future development.

Historic Richmond Foundation is a known quantity to VUU; it worked with the university on the restoration of VUUs Industrial Hall, said executive director Cyane Crump.

We have offered, Crump said. We would very much like to work with them to find preservation solutions that would save Richmond Community Hospital. We think its a really important building that has a significant story to tell. ... Its clear to us that the community would like to see it saved.

Historic Richmond Foundation would pull together volunteer architects, engineers and construction experts to look at options to incorporate it into VUUs larger plans, she said. That requires a cooperative effort with the property owners. As for VUU, theyve acknowledged receipt and more or less said theyd get back with us.

Meanwhile, the debate surrounding the hospital has exposed fissures on the topic within the Black community.

Baskerville, in an April 8 email to state Sen. Lamont Bagby, D-Richmond, said she was perplexed at the degree of silence exhibited by you as Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus and many of your members towards the threat of demolition by Virginia Union University of the 1932 building that once housed Richmond Community Hospital on Richmonds Northside.

Bagby replied that he was unaware of any active threats of demolition by Virginia Union University of the building, and cited the $5 million set aside by Steinbridge.

To which Baskerville replied: No, there is not an active demolition permit on file with the City at this point; and I certainly hope you are not waiting for that to happen before you weigh in. However, the University has not published a statement clarifying that in fact it will not demolish the 1932 structure.

She added: Promises that funding will be set aside are one thing; communicating a more concrete message to the community that the building will be saved and reused in the Universitys development plans is another. 

Friday evening, Neely issued VUUs most concrete take yet on plans for the hospital. He said the development team on this project has expertise in historic preservation. The team and the University are committed to adaptive reuse of the Richmond Community Hospital building. This is expected to include at least the buildings facade, and likely more.

Lets hope for likely more. VUU cant build a sound future on a foundation of mistrust.

Virginia Union University
First rain in weeks brings flooding, accidents, power outages, sargassumand drought relief

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  The arrival of Cold Front 45 left much of the Peninsula in disarray with strong winds and heavy rains. The rains felt around the region Thursday were the first in weeks, bringing an end to the spring drought.

However, the heavy rain left many areas under water. Various degrees of flooding was reported in nearly every municipality where the rain fell. Cancun and Isla Mujeres reported minor flooding in central areas while also disrupting traffic.

Heavy rain hit the city of Cancun early Thursday. Photo: April 11, 2024.

The Municipal Traffic Directorate of Cancun reported attending to 14 accidents during the several hour rainfall.

Cancun Transit attended to 14 accidents due to the rain. Photo: April 11, 2024

On the island of Isla Mujeres, several residential areas were left without power. The partial blackout, which lasted for around two hours, was restored at 11:45 a.m. reported the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE).

Parts of the island were left without power. Photo: April 11, 2024.

Although the island of Cozumel also reported minor flooding in some areas, there were no injuries, accidents or power outages reported.

Several Cozumel streets were flooded. Cozumel city crews are seen here clearing a drain.

In Playa del Carmen, Traffic Police were out in the rain attending to a five car crunch along the citys main through highway.

The wet driving conditions left five cars bumper to bumper in Playa del Carmen. Photo: April 11, 2024.

The five vehicle bumper crash happened along Playa del Carmen Boulevard Thursday afternoon near Pintores Avenue. Slowed city traffic was further snarled by the multi-vehicle crash.

Due to the strong winds, larger amounts of seaweed began arriving ahead of the cold front. Photo: April 10, 2024.

A noticeable amount of seaweed also arrived with the cold front. While the amounts are considered manageable, the strong winds push-forced the floating sargassum onto many areas of the coast.

While no accidents were reported around Isla Mujeres, there were reports of island flooding. A city drain is seen bubbling due to overflowing lines.

Isla Mujeres city personnel were out clearing street drains after the heavy rainfall. Photo: April 11, 2024.

On Thursday, Mexicos Servicio Meteorologico Nacional (SMN) forecast the arrival of cold front number 45 in the southeast of Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula. The SMN reported very heavy rains (50 to 75 millimeters) in Campeche, Quintana Roo and Yucatan with wind gusts of 40 to 60 kilometers per hour (km/h) on the coasts.
Mexico files legal complaint against Ecuador for embassy assault

Mexico City, Mexico  The Government of Mexico, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE), announced a formal complaint filed Thursday before the International Court of Justice.

The complaint was filed against the State of Ecuador for the assault on the Mexican embassy and the grievance to diplomatic staff last Friday, April 5.

On Thursday, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE), Alicia Barcena Ibarra, stated that the violent aggression represents irreparable damage and specified Mexicos bases and claims in the lawsuit:

Judge and declare that Ecuador is responsible for the damage that the violations of its international obligations have caused and continue to cause to Mexico. The suspension of Ecuador as a member of the United Nations (UN) until a public apology is issued, recognizing the violations of the fundamental principles and norms of international law in order to guarantee reparation for moral damage, inflicted on the Mexican State and its nationals. Judge and declare that, in the event of a violation of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations similar to that committed by Ecuador, the International Court of Justice is the appropriate judicial body to determine the responsibility of a State, in order to initiate the expulsion process under article 6 of said letter. Establish the precedent that any State or nation that acts as Ecuador did will be definitively expelled from the United Nations Organization based on the evaluation provided for in Article 6 of the United Nations Charter. It is so important to avoid the repetition of these cases that the International Court of Justice will be able to present the expulsion of the State that violates international law quickly and expeditiously before the UN Security Council, avoiding the veto of its members.

The lawsuit before the main judicial body of the United Nations (UN) highlights the various violations of the Vienna Convention.

In this regard, the legal consultant of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alejandro Celorio Alcantara, explained that Ecuador violated the invulnerability of the Mexican embassy by breaking into the premises without authorization, intervening in communications, frustrating diplomatic work and attacking life and dignity of the diplomatic staff, especially the head of the Foreign Ministry and political affairs, Roberto Canseco and the administrative head, Eva Martha Balbuena.

The legal consultant of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alejandro Celorio Alcantara. Photo: April 11, 2024.

President Lopez Obrador maintained that the complaint seeks the non-repetition of a despicable event like the one that Mexico and, especially its diplomatic representation suffered, that it is not repeated in any country in the world, that international law is guaranteed, that the premises, the embassies of countries in any nation are not violated and that the States where the embassies are located have the commitment to protect the independence and guarantee the sovereignty of those spaces that is what is sought.

The Secretary recalled that Mexico is recognized worldwide for the peaceful resolution of disputes. The claims, she said, seek to strengthen the legal framework and asserted that the lawsuit will test the international justice system at a time of extreme weakness in the multilateral world.

President Lopez Obrador assured that other countries in the international community can intervene and support Mexicos approaches, since it concerns all peoples in the peaceful resolution of disputes .

Secretary Barcena Ibarra mentioned that so far there has not been a single country against the arguments that Mexico accuses of violating the diplomatic immunity of its embassy in Ecuador.

The president called to guarantee prompt and expeditious justice because no one, no power, no country, can be allowed to act in that way. 

After the incident, Mexico suspended trade relations with Ecuador, which were in negotiation towards a free trade agreement, clarified the head of the SRE.

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE), Alicia Barcena Ibarra. Photo: April 11, 2024.

Lopez Obrador also said Thursday that the person alleged responsible for the embassy attack, an Ecuadorian with Mexican nationality, will not be tried for treason.

The Minister of Government of Ecuador, Monica Palencia, with Mexican nationality, will not be tried in the country for treason after the assault on the Mexican embassy carried out by Ecuadorian police on April 5, he said.

Yes, they are asking for her to be judged. My opinion is that no, that we do not act like that. () They ask us to consider her a traitor to the country. No, no, we cannot act in the same way, he said.

The President presented a video of Minister Palencia in which she claims not to have been part of the decision, execution or other act after the illegal invasion of the Mexican embassy, arguing that this would mean a conflict of interest for having both nationalities.

The chancellor of Ecuador has already declared that the order was given by the president (Daniel Noboa), Lopez Obrador pointed out.

Mexicos President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Photo: April 11, 2024.

Before media representatives, he reiterated that the Government of Mexico never had the intention of facilitating the escape of the former vice president of Ecuador, Jorge David Glas Espinel, a guest staying at the Mexican embassy.

In this regard, Barcena Ibarra, explained that last December, Glas formally requested political asylum, so the Government of Mexico was in the process of analyzing his legal situation in Ecuador when security forces illegally detained the former vice president from inside the Mexican embassy.
Police arrest trio in multiple Cozumel murders

Cozumel, Q.R.  Two adults and a minor were taken into police custody for several island murders. The two adults, Erik Mauricio N, Ana Mariel N, were arrested along with an under aged teen for their involvement in three murders and one attempted murder on the island of Cozumel.

According to the State Attorney General, three men were murdered between March 13 and April 8 of this year. During that same time frame, a fourth attempted murder on a Cozumel man was also made by the same trio.

The three murders and one attempted murder were made in four separate incidents.

The arrest of Erik Mauricio N, Ana Mariel N and a minor teenager took place on 10 Street North and 75 Street North in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood of Cozumel for their probable participation in drug dealing.

These people were seized with bags of marijuana and a solid crystalline substance similar to the drug known as methamphetamine.

Along with the alleged drugs, they seized two firearms from Erik Mauricio N, as well as a magazine with useful cartridges. These people are part of a violent criminal group dedicated to the sale of narcotics.

Derived from the first investigations, it is established that those now detained are related to three homicides and one attempted homicide in Cozumel.

The first homicide occurred on March 13 against a man on 25th Street South in the San Miguel I neighborhood. He was killed by a gunshot wound. Likewise, on March 26, a man was injured on Pedro Joaquin Codwell Avenue, who later lost his life in a hospital.

As for the third homicide, this took place on April 3 on the South Coastal Highway where a man died from a firearm projectile. Finally, a male was injured by a firearm on April 8 on Jose Maria Morelos Street in the Centro neighborhood, the FGE said in an official statement.
He would, of course, have blanchedor barfedif you had ever addressed him that way (probably the only blasphemy hed refuse to utter). Yet is it really any more outlandish than the conversations we had about another adamantly avowed atheist? About our intellectual secular saint and fellow intellectual big brother? About the English patriot and incarnation of decency whom he cherished as his personal hero, St. George Orwell?

Christopher Hitchens (19492011), skeptic and scoffer, would have roundly protested his posthumous canonization. No matter: the crusading legions of the Hitchens faithful these days do not, as they brandish his ever-quotable bon mots, binge-watch his pugilistic punditry (on YouTube segments numbering in the thousands), revisit his provocative essays (another collection, A Hitch in Time, was released in January), and surf the half-dozen websites honoring his memory.

And what memories he has left! Impossible to believe as it is, he would have turned 75 this Saturday (April 13), more than a dozen years since his premature exit in December 2011, the victim of esophageal cancer.

Again, no matter: however ironic it may seem, Christopher Hitchens is spoken about in some circlesprofessed atheists, fellow contrarians, aggressive anti-totalitarians, idiosyncratically independent leftists, pro-American interventionist conservatives, and morein language nothing short of reverence.

If secular saintliness consists in a form of heroic virtue in speaking the truth, Hitchens indisputably possessed a militantly archangelic audacity to speak truth to power. As much as he admired many of the mid-Victorian figures, Arnoldian balance was a virtue he neither sought nor much honored. Passion and even excess were the nature he nurtured. The Apollonian tradition possessed little appeal; he paid tribute to the Dionysian gods. In vino caritas was his paternoster.

The tribute that the Dionysian gods exacted was exorbitant. I would call him a secular Calvinist. He was well aware that his father, The Commander, had died at 78 of esophageal cancer. Yet even on his deathbed, at the age of 61, the son expressed no regrets about his perilous choices and their preordained outcome.

I recall our last exchange. He took a moment to reply to an email of mine during what turned out to be his very last week. He had mentioned weeks earlier that it might be possible, if I were still in Austin, to pay him a visit at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He was busy in his hospital room, pecking away at the computer or jotting notes, still tilling away in the vineyard, as he picturesquely phrased it. Although he was not quite sure how long he had left, he could hear that other tillerthe one with the scythepacing in the corridor.

He was up against another deadline. The time was nigh; his condition had taken a definitive turn for the worse. A final rendezvous on these shores, he wrote me, would not be possible.

That was the toneand very nearly the phrasing. What a ruthless, chipper, indeed superhuman stoicism to the very end. And yet the comradely warmth, toosentiment without a trace of sentimentality. To this day, just recalling that message brings back my confused mix of emotions momentary tears of laughter followed by an uncontrollable outbreak of anguished crying and bottomless sadness. His awful fate! And with what consummate dignity it was borne, as readers of his posthumous memoir, Mortality, would soon discover.

Meeting Christopher

I first met Christopher (never Chrisa nickname he loathed and which exposed you as an ingratiating, presumptuousand doubtless Americanstranger) briefly in December 1999, and then for a full day in April 2002, when he was well known but had not yet emerged as the leading controversialist of the day. It was just six months before he burned his bridges with his old comrades and became the enfant terrible of the left, publicly breaking with his Nation colleagues (So Long, Fellow Travelers, he declared in the Washington Post) and soon thereafter supporting the invasion and occupation of Iraq.

We lunched together before appearing in an hour-long PBS special on George Orwell (The Orwell Century) in the runup to the Orwell centennial of 2003. Like me, Hitchens was finishing a book (Why Orwell Matters, 2003) about Orwells legacy. We later met at conferences, at his Washington apartment, and at his Palo Alto residence near the campus of Stanford University (where his father-in-law, Edwin Blue, a retired physicist, lived next door). Between our occasional meetings, we emailed (Hope you are thriving! ran his signature sendoff) and spoke every few months on the telephone. One call in 2005 lasted nearly two hours, when he was on deadline to complete an introduction to a reissue of Chilean writer Isabel Allendes international bestseller The House of the Spirits. Implausible as it now seems to me, I was helping him that night: Id published a couple of books about her and was faxing him some pages and answering questions.

A few years later, under surprisingly similar conditions, a call ran on even longer. Christopher was pulling an all-nighter for a deadline to complete the introduction to an omnibus edition of writings about his dearly departed friend and their favorite nonliterary activity: Everyday Drinking: The Distilled Kingsley Amis. The Hitch was in high spirits himself that night and shared fond memories of Britains most famous comic novelist, known to his friends as Kingers, a fellow world-class imbiber and the father of Christophers friend, the novelist Martin Amis. This trio had enjoyed many a round together, and Martin even wrote shortly before his own death in May 2023 that Hitch, not me, was my fathers ideal reader. I had written a long essay about Kingsley and his circle (Philip Larkin, Robert Conquest, et al.), which Christopher had found helpful for his introduction. Very useful, he granted. Saved me the trouble of extra research.

Not long thereafter, Christopher took me on a long, leisurely stroll through his Palo Alto neighborhood. Waving to neighbors, stopping to visit his father-in-law, Edwin, and pausing to point out Condis house (Condoleezza Rice, then-secretary of state and Stanfords provost during the 1990s), Christopher was in an ebullient mood. He remarked that he had been on the wagon for the entire summer and never felt better.

Was this apparently casual remark really a veiledif much delayedresponse to my unanswered handwritten letter of years ago? After witnessing an especially indulgent late-night spree, I was alarmed; I gently reminded him that the tubercular Orwell folded his cards at 46 after jeopardizing his health by going to Spain to fight and residing in a remote spot in the Scottish Hebrides (where he wrote Nineteen Eighty-Four), located at least 48 hours from any hospital. Do ease up on the smokes and drinks. Along with countless others, Id like you to hang around as long as possible.

For the Sake of Argument?

The world I live in is one where I can have five quarrels a day, each with somebody who really takes me on over something, he wrote in Hitch-22, his autobiography. And if I cant get into an argument, I go looking for one to make sure I trust my own arguments, to hone them. I would often rather have an argument or a quarrel than be bored, and because I hate to lose an argument, I am often willing to protract it for its own sake rather than concede even on a small point.

This was about a decade after his scathing denunciation of Mother Teresa (The Missionary Position, 1995), when he was at work on what might be described as its full-blast, comprehensive sequel, God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything (2007). Regarding Mother Teresa, I asked him about his conversations with other members of her order (the Missionaries of Charity) and the Vaticans invitation to speak at her beatification proceedings as an unofficial advocatus diaboli.

To his credit, Christopher paid me the respect of hearing me out and engaging me. Yet because his materialist stance completely denied the possibility of the supernatural, I readily admittedas I would do so todaythat I had no language whereby I might reach him.

I sometimes wondered why he listened respectfully to what I said. Was it some degree of credibility, transferred from my competence to discuss Orwell, that is, a secularized halo effect that he imputed to me? Or maybe just that we were fellow junior literary siblings of the Big O? Or was it something else? Or even just for the sake of argument (the title he gave to a 1993 collection of essays)?

Around this time, as he was writing God Is Not Great, Christopher had contacted a friend of mine, a Catholic convert, to find him an erudite priest or confessor skilled in dialectics and with giving instruction to receive converts into the Church. Someone to really take him on? To hone his arguments in the book? And on the debate tours? Perhaps.

Might he also have had a first-person Vanity Fair piece in mindlike his famous waterboarding story (Believe Me, Its Torture)? Perhaps he imagined a deep-dive investigation of the intellectual shallowness of catechetical teachings, and an expose of the vainglory of confessors less interested in the fate of Hitchens immortal soul than in the fantasized kudos from their bishops for netting a big fish like a world-famous atheist?

So far as I know, aside from collecting some names of potential confessors, Christopher did not pursue this idea furtherbecause he did not want to deceive a priest into thinking he was serious? Or even because some part of him knew that, if the opposing arguments had proved convincing, he would have felt compelled to take the unthinkable step, a la that contemptible sophist C.S. Lewis? Perhaps.

Or not. Told in his final months that many people were praying for his conversion, he jotted this mot that was found among his deathbed notes: If I convert its because its better that a believer dies than an atheist does.

However I might divine those mysteries today, all of which the dialogue over Mother Teresa and the nature of her vocation raised, one thing is clear: the world mistakenly hailed Mother Teresa as a successor to heroines of humanitarian outreach such as Florence Nightingale, Clara Barton, Jane Addams, and Mary Baker Eddy. Yet her mission and her motivation were not theirs. Her practice was not social work but the social gospel (or, as Mother Teresa liked to term it, the Gospel on Five Fingers).

And that, quite definitively, was not Christophers mission.

A Fantasy

And yet, let us imagine a world in which Christophers socialist and Mother Teresas Christian visions converged in a social gospel: his vision of a socialist paradise meeting her vision of a divine one.

Yes, what might have happened if he had lived into the age of Pope Francis? Might he have perceived the possibility of an alliance with the Peoples Popea revolutionist of the spirit who refused to live in the papal palace and thus practiced the social gospel he preached? Politics makes strange bedfellows. The practical side of Christopher was a capable shrewd tactician and battle-tested strategist from his Oxford days of Trotskyist sectarian warfare. That pragmatic side motivated him to bury his differences with the otherwise contemptible neocons at the Bush White House, those shameless born-again capitalists and smug corporate tycoons, on the venerable political principle that the enemy of my enemy is my friend. After all, reasoned Christopher, they, too, saw Saddam and Osama and Islamofascism as Enemy #1. (By 2008, Christophers pro-Bush Americanism had even gone so far that he renounced his British citizenship and became one of us, an American. His unlikely sponsor? None other than Paul Wolfowitz, the house intellectual of the Bush White House, Dick Cheneys right-hand man.)

On this view, might the liberal church climate under Francis have come to appear to Christopher as a rare historical moment to erect a Popular Front against both Islamism and poverty? To appropriate the rhetoric of the social gospellending a secular accent to the social while letting Francis keep the gospel?

Christopher was well aware of the tradition of Christian socialism. Certainly he knew that great saints from the Middle Ages to our own lifetimefrom St. Francis of Assisi to St. Dorothy Dayhad championed the poor. He was much taken by the example of the Catholic Worker movement under Day. He was impressed by the walk-the-talk Worker side of the ex-Communist Dorothy Day, saw her as a broad ideological ally, and took note that one of his own heroesDwight Macdonald, a fellow ex-Trotskyist and lifelong heterodox radicaladmired Day intensely. Unlike his claim about Mother Teresanamely, that she was in love with Poverty and didnt care about the poorDay not only served the poor in her soup kitchens but lived alongside them in her houses of hospitality.

If Christopher had lived into the age of Francis and his liberal churchwhich began in March 2013, just 15 months after his reluctant passingmight he have seen an opportunity to promote the dawning of a new, quasiVatican III era? Might he have permitted himself to imagine a world in which otherworldly religiosity and secular socialism could join hands to feed souls as well as bodies? If soputting aside momentarily that free-market capitalism is better equipped for such a task than any form of collectivism, and that a Catholic religious vocation is not incompatible with a market economy frameworkmight Christopher have embraced an unusual form of what we might term religious tolerance? If we grant that possibility, he might have cast a tolerant eye toward well-meaning believers who hoped intensely (i.e., prayed) not only for his physical health but also for his eternal salvationhowever pointless and even absurd that still struck him as a nonbeliever.

What if he had survived and resolved to redirect his incomparable gifts for polemic and for debate? Redirect? How? Into a radical, innovative form of Christian-atheist dialogue. Or better: a big-tent dialogue that included Judaism, Islam, and even Buddhism and Hinduism. A form of exchange that went, that is, well beyond a typical interfaith dialogue to an existential dialogue on all topics relevant to Mortality (remember: the title of his last, posthumously published book). I envision a scenario: a series of grand summit meetings, a parade of moveable feastsfrom the Vatican to the U.N. to Mecca and beyond. There they all are: the Four Horsemen of Atheism (led by Ambassador Hitch, flanked by Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and David Dennett), Francis, and assorted rabbis and imams and Eastern nuns and monks and women and men.

In this didactic fantasy of mine, the practical journalist and master of communication would have concluded that unbelievers and believers could come together to affirm a daring prospect: they could combine a hard-headed utopianism and a great-souled pragmatism, that they could become partners in a shared vision of political activism.

Could the adamant atheist have become, in Chestertons phrase, a good agnostic, promoting a social gospel, even though he parted ways with its ecclesiastical evangelists? Alas, well never know.
You are here: Business

A drone photo taken on April 8, 2024 shows the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center, the main venue for the upcoming fourth China International Consumer Products Expo, in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

The fourth China International Consumer Products Expo will open on Saturday in Haikou, the capital city of south China's Hainan Province.

The six-day event will host over 4,000 brands from 71 countries and regions, which are expected to showcase their novel and upmarket products for global consumers.

The area of the expo's main venue will reach 100,000 square meters. The exhibition area of sub-venues, including themed exhibitions on new consumption scenarios and health consumption, covers 28,000 square meters.

Ireland will be the guest of honor at this year's expo, with a dedicated exhibition venue showing the country's scientific and technological innovation, education, investment, tourism and culture.
Outbreak affected 132 individuals with 5 hospitalised; Two other companies also fined for food-related lapses

SINGAPORE  Burger & Lobster Singapore was fined S$3,000 for three food safety lapses, said the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) in a media release on Thursday (11 April). They include poor housekeeping, cracked kitchen floor tiles, using a dirty oven toaster, and failure to employ a food hygiene officer.

In May 2022, SFA received reports of a gastroenteritis outbreak that affected 132 people after they consumed food at the restaurant's Jewel Changi Airport outlet between 7 and 15 May 2022. Five of them were hospitalised.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and SFA conducted a joint investigation at the premises, and found the multiple food safety lapses. SFA suspended Burger & Lobster's food business operations from 16 May to 5 July 2022 in the interest of public health, and directed the restaurant to take necessary measures to improve food safety practices and the cleanliness of its premises.

"All food operators should ensure that their premises are clean and well-maintained, and staff are adequately trained on proper food safety management," said SFA.

Offenders could face a fine not exceeding S$2,000. Offenders with continuing offence could face a further fine of up to S$100 for every day or part thereof, during which the offence continues after conviction.

Seized consignments of illegal imported vegetables from GH Enterprise (Photo: SFA)

Illegal import of fresh vegetables for sale

Meanwhile, wholesale company GH Enterprise was fined S$7,000 for illegally importing fresh vegetables for sale. Its director, Chua Chuan Leong, was also fined S$5,000 for failing to prevent the offence from being committed.

In April 2023, SFA officers detected and seized about 1.5 tonnes of undeclared and under-declared fresh vegetables. They included spring onion and spinach, in the consignments imported from Malaysia by the importer.

SFA said that in Singapore, fruits and vegetables can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit.

"Illegally imported vegetables are of unknown sources and can pose a food safety risk (e.g. if unregulated or high level of pesticides are used). The long-term ingestion of excessive pesticide residues through the consumption of vegetables that have been subjected to pesticide abuse could lead to adverse health effects," said the authority.

Offenders who illegally import fresh fruits and vegetables can face a maximum fine of S$10,000 and/or a jail term of up to three years.

Processing and packing activities conducted illegally at Yan Zai Seasoning (Photo: SFA)

Unlicensed food processing and packing

In a third incident, Yan Zai Seasoning was fined S$2,500 for operating an unlicensed non-retail food business.

On 9 November 2022, SFA officers found the company engaging in illegal food processing and packing on its premises at 19 Jurong Port Road. The premises was not licensed to conduct food processing, and over 145 kilograms of dried food products were seized.

"Illegal processing and packing of food products at unlicensed facilities poses a food safety risk. In Singapore, all food processing establishments must be licensed and are required to meet SFAs requirements and food safety standards. These licensed establishments are also routinely inspected," said SFA.

First-time offenders could face a fine not exceeding S$5,000. In the case of a second or subsequent offence, offenders could face a fine not exceeding S$10,000 and/or a jail term up to three months.

Members of the public who come across poor hygiene practices in food establishments are advised not to patronise them and provide feedback to SFA. Those who come across illegal activities are encouraged to provide feedback via SFA's feedback form, or call SFA's contact centre (6805-2871) with details for the authority to investigate.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

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The duo, who star in a new Singapore drama about a police team investigating sex crimes, spoke of their own experiences of sexual harassment.

Actors Gavin Chong (left) and Shane Pow said they have been sexually harassed before. PHOTO: Instagram/gavinchongzhe, Instagram/shanepowxp

A masseur in Vietnam got a little too close to a private area and it left Malaysian actor Gavin Chong feeling uncomfortable. The Singapore-based actor is in a new drama Unforgivable, where his character is part of a police team investigating sex crimes, and shared about the incident in a recent interview.

Talking with 8world, the actor revealed that he had been sexually harassed before. It happened last year when he was in Vietnam for a vacation with friends, and got a masseur who was a little handsy.

He recalled, In the process of the massage, I felt him touch a more private part of my body. I have had different massages before, but he touched places that other masseurs had not touched.

I felt uncomfortable at the moment, but I didn't want to assume that I had been molested. I thought I might have been overthinking, so I just endured the whole process. Later, I really felt something was wrong, so I reported it to the store owner. The owner eventually refunded the full fee to me.

Explicit photos of men sent to co-star Shane Pow

Chongs co-star Shane Pow, who recently starred in the local film Good Goodbye, also received unwanted attention from strangers.

Pow told 8world that persons online have sent him explicit photos of male privates, accompanied by provocative text.

He said, Maybe because this is the online world, people are bolder and think they won't be caught. The person who sent the photo may have also sent it to many people at the same time and is seeing who responds. I just treat it like a scammer and ignore it.

Both Chong and Pow felt that in the past, society was simpler, and so their parents didnt teach the boys how to protect themselves. Instead, they were taught that men and women are different, and they shouldnt fool around with the latter.

Pow shared that he tries to avoid alcohol when attending public events and cautioned women to be mindful of their safety, even if its among friends or a partner.

Drinking might cause troubles, he said.

He has also encountered a situation where a woman was in trouble, and he had to step in to help.

Some people may be too enthusiastic and fail to exercise proper control, accidentally crossing the line. If it's not convenient for me to come forward, I will ask other people to come to the rescue and pull the person away.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

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A 20-year-old officer, who was driving the police car, is assisting with investigations, said the police.

Photos of road accident at the junction of Tampines North Drive 1 and Drive 2 on morning of 12 April 2024 (Photos: Facebook/Singapore roads accident.com)

Update: The police have said that a 20-year-old officer, who was driving the police car, is assisting with investigations.

SINGAPORE  One person was taken to Changi General Hospital after an accident between a police vehicle and a car in Tampines. Photos posted on the Facebook group Singapore roads accident.com on Friday (12 April) showed a traffic collision between a police car and a black car.

From the photos, the bonnet of the police car appeared to be damaged. Two police officers in yellow jackets could also be seen at the scene.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and the police confirmed with Yahoo Southeast Asia that it was alerted to a road traffic accident at the junction of Tampines North Drive 1 and Tampines North Drive 2 at about 10.35am on Friday (12 April).

According to the Singapore Police force, a 48-year-old female passenger was taken conscious to the hospital.

A 20-year-old officer, who was driving the police car, is assisting with investigations.

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.
Renowned for its high-quality zi char dishes at a reasonable price, Pung Pung Kitchen has opened a new outlet at West Coast Drive. This is their third outlet, after Sing Ming Road and Holland Close.

Founded by Chef Pung Tu Ling, quality is the definite cornerstone of Pung Pung Kitchens delectable offerings.

Among numerous accolades that include being the head of Singapores Famous Chefs Fraternity, Chef Pung was Singapores youngest Master Chef at 23 and has continued to achieve great success as a Chinese Cuisine Chef for the past 40 years.

Indulge in a feast fit for a king without breaking the bank! You can delight in a sumptuous spread of 4 zi char dishes for around S$60.

Pung Pung Kitchen is offering a fantastic deal  enjoy 1 Singapore Chilli Crab for only S$38. This is an opportunity not to be missed for seafood aficionados seeking the freshest catch at an unbeatable price.

A kind staff member informed me that the S$5 Lunch Promo and S$58 Set Promo (only at the Sin Ming Road and Holland Close outlets) are still ongoing. Do keep an eye out for similar promotions!



The indulgence doesnt stop here, whether youre craving classic favourites or eager to explore new zi char horizons, Pung Pung Kitchen offers a variety of options from savoury stir-fries like Black Pepper Sliced Beef (S$13/ S$18/ S$24) and Kailan with Roasted Pork (S$13/ S$19/ S$25), to succulent seafood like Crab Meat Fish Maw (S$25/ S$45) and Curry Fish Head (S$27).

Be sure to give popular dishes such as Pung Pung Signature Black Truffle & Sesame Sauce Pork Rib (S$15/ S$22/ S$28) and Pung Pung Signature Charcoal Tofu (S$14/ S$16) a shot too.

Gather your loved ones and be sure to visit Pung Pung Kitchens newest branch at West Coast!

For locations and opening times, please see here.

Order Delivery: foodpanda

The post Pung Pung Kitchen: Youngest Master Chef opens new West Coast zi char outlet appeared first on SETHLUI.com.
IAEA chief calls for "maximum restraint" over Zaporizhzhia attacks

Xinhua) 09:31, April 12, 2024

Photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a special meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors in Vienna, Austria. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Thursday called for "maximum restraint" after Sunday's drone attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP), which he said have significantly increased the risk of a nuclear accident. (IAEA/Handout via Xinhua)

VIENNA, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Thursday called for "maximum restraint" after Sunday's drone attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP), which he said have significantly increased the risk of a nuclear accident.

"Direct attacks against the ZNPP marked a major escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers in Ukraine," IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi told a special meeting of the agency's 35-nation Board of Governors.

The meeting was convened at the request of Russia and Ukraine to discuss the attacks on ZNPP, which hit the reactor dome of Unit 6 of the plant, and caused at least one casualty. They were the first attacks since November 2022 to directly target the ZNPP.

Although Grossi said that Sunday's attacks "fortunately did not compromise nuclear safety in a serious way", he noted that another drone attack on the ZNPP on Tuesday was "an ominous indication of an apparent readiness to continue these attacks."

The IAEA chief called on military decision-makers to abstain from any action violating the IAEA's principles, to prevent a nuclear accident and ensure the integrity of the ZNPP. He also urged the international community to work towards de-escalating the situation at the plant, and said he would brief the United Nations Security Council on the matter next week.

Russia and Ukraine have both accused the other of staging the attacks on the ZNPP. Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that the recent shelling of the plant was "a very dangerous provocation", with negative consequences. However, Ukraine has denied any involvement in the drone attacks.

The IAEA has not taken a position on who was to blame.

The ZNPP is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, with a total capacity of six gigawatts. At the end of February 2022, Russia took control of the facility.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), speaks at a special meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors in Vienna, Austria, on April 11, 2024. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Thursday called for "maximum restraint" after Sunday's drone attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP), which he said have significantly increased the risk of a nuclear accident. (IAEA/Handout via Xinhua)

Rafael Grossi (L), director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), attends a special meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors in Vienna, Austria, on April 11, 2024. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Thursday called for "maximum restraint" after Sunday's drone attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP), which he said have significantly increased the risk of a nuclear accident. (Xinhua/He Canling)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The Ministry of Education (MOE) has launched a nationwide campaign to address violations of primary and junior high school enrollment.

The campaign aims to fully strengthen the management of the enrollment of students across the nine years of compulsory education, and improve the long-acting mechanism of fair enrollment, according to a circular unveiled by the MOE on Thursday.

Such foul acts include receiving money related to enrollments, recruiting students via wrongful means such as offering high rewards, fabricating promotional materials and verbal agreements, and setting up "key classes" to admit more top students.

The circular urged local education administrations to overhaul their current primary school and junior high school enrollment policies and measures, and rectify or abolish any that go against the country's relevant policies.

It also asked the education authorities to make students' enrollment more transparent and convenient to ease the burden on the people.
SIOUX CITY  The Inclusive Sioux City Advisory Committee is moving forward with its mission in spite of the city's ongoing suspension of its overseeing liaison.

On Wednesday, the 11-member committee held its first monthly meeting at City Hall without Semehar Ghebrekidan, the city's community inclusion liaison. According to an internal memo obtained by The Journal, she was suspended with pay effective Feb. 21, pending the completion of an investigation concerning "violations of city work rules." Ghebrekidan, who has been employed with the city since 2021, reports to the City Manager's Office and is not a department head.

"What has happened is so egregious to me, as a woman of color. This hasn't happened just one time. This keeps happening," Trisha Rivers, a member of the committee, said Wednesday. "I think harm has been done, and I think we need to move forward and address the harm and work through the harm."

Rivers, a Sioux City resident and member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, commended Ghebrekidan's work with the city, noting she has "bridged a lot of communities together." Rivers also called on city leaders to be transparent.

"I really don't like the fact that our leadership is going to different people in this community like it's not going to come back to us. We deserve transparency, too. We're a governmental body, too. So please, continuing forward, I urge you to have all stakeholders at future meetings. Let's be transparent. Let's air it all out," she said.

Sister City anniversary (copy) Trisha Rivers places a star quilt on Yu Wantanabe, a Yamanashi City Hall Regional Resource Development Department staff member, while presenti

City staff and council members have said little publicly about Ghebrekidan's suspension. City Attorney Nicole DuBois said personnel matters are confidential and "the city is prohibited from comments." DuBois also denied multiple open records requests concerning Ghebrekidan's suspension, which were made by The Journal under the Freedom of Information Act. Mayor Bob Scott previously said Ghebrekidan has hired an attorney, so the City Council doesn't "have the privilege or the opportunity to say anything in the public about that."

On March 28, LaShawna Moyle, the committee's chair, and two other members, Sara Berntson and Erica Carter, met with City Manager Bob Padmore and Councilman Alex Watters, according to a source familiar with the meeting. Padmore and Watters are non-voting members of the committee. Padmore is also serving as the committee's city staff contact until further notice.

A recording of that closed-door meeting, which is just over an hour in length, was obtained by The Journal. Since Iowa requires one-party consent, one person can legally record a conversation without telling the other person.

When asked by a committee member if there is an "end date" to Ghebrekidan's suspension, Padmore said on the recording, "Right now, we don't know." He said the city has had suspensions that have lasted a couple of days to six months.

"She's not being punished for anything, right now. It's  she's being investigated for some things that have happened," Padmore said. "I'm frustrated that it's five weeks in and I can't tell you when it's going to end. I'm hoping sooner than later."

On the recording, Moyle expressed frustration with division that has been created within the committee. She also said she was concerned for her safety due to "negative, condescending" messaging from individuals.

Padmore stressed the Inclusive Sioux City movement is very important to the city.

"People are watching what we're doing. I think the best thing that we can do is show that Inclusive Sioux City as a committee and as a movement in our community is alive and well and moving forward," he said.

On the recording, Watters said he doesn't think the city does a "good enough job" of reflecting the community within City Hall's walls and expressed disappointment about being unable to defend himself against negative comments made at a March 18 council meeting. During the council meeting, several individuals, including Rivers, committee member Jim Jung and Ghebrekidan's husband, Logan Arguello, spoke in support of Ghebrekidan. Arguello said his wife has been put in uncomfortable and even dangerous situations while on the job. He specifically called out Watters and Councilman Matthew O'Kane for bringing up Ghebrekidan's performance during city budget sessions.

"I don't know if you all watched the council meeting when they came and spoke, but it's like, I can't tell you how hard it is to sit there when you've fought for something, or you've worked hard for something for a long time and, then, like you can't speak and there's bashing," Watters said on the recording. "That's hard for a lot of us council members to listen to and, especially, when we already feel pressure that it's like, you know, we all know the demographic of the western state of Iowa is like we're not winning awards because we're trying to be more inclusive and trying to focus on these efforts, right? It's not the popular thing."

Watters went on to say that if he speaks out about every injustice as loudly as he can, "the other side will run people against" him to get him or others out of office.

"Especially, when the state is already cutting funding or forcing entities to not have DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) initiatives, that's where it's like I have to caution myself and tone a little bit about what I would want to speak out on down and choose my battles."

Peggy La told her fellow committee members Wednesday they have to put what's important in the community first.

"We can't stop just because of one person. I mean, (Ghebrekidan) does put a lot together, but we still have to be stronger together," she said.

In the fall of 2020, the City Council approved a resolution to establish the Inclusive Sioux City Advisory Committee, which provides guidance to the council on matters relating to diversity, inclusion and equity. The goal of the committee is to represent the interests of and enhance the quality of life for all who live in the city.

The idea for the committee came out of meetings between city staff and Sioux City NAACP leadership in the wake of protests that erupted in May 2020, following the death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed by an ex-Minneapolis police officer. The talks were designed to explore how the city could begin moving forward.

Ghebrekidan worked in a variety of diversity, equity and inclusion positions throughout her time in college. Before coming to work for the City of Sioux City, she was employed as an HIV case manager at Siouxland Community Health Center.

In March 2023, Ghebrekidan was honored during the 38th annual Women of Excellence Awards ceremony with the award for "Women Striving to Improve the Quality of Life." Then, in November, Ghebrekidan launched a campaign for a vacated Sioux City school board seat. She ultimately lost the election to Dan Greenwell, who is currently serving the two-year term on the board.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here.

Dear Care and Feeding,

My brother moved in with me because of his pending divorce, and his habits are driving us to the poor house. His ex-wife lives off her familys money and her rich new boyfriend, but still expects my brother to pay half of whatever she decides. My brother just rolls over and pays, leaving me hanging when our bills are due.

He is the same way with his three kids. No is not a word in their vocabulary. The girls dont want to share a room (they are 10 and 7), so my brother sleeps on the couch. Then he complains about his bad back. The kids want to eat out for every meal they have here. I will literally make tacos, and they whine that they want to go to the expensive TexMex restaurant by the mall. My brother just gives in. My hours have been cut at work, and I have been pinching pennies. One of the reasons I let my brother move in with me was that I thought we both would save money. It isnt working out that way. He feels like he needs to compete to keep his kids affections, and I tell him he is doing more harm than good. Be there for the kids, but that means being a parent and not their best buddy.

He has twice run out of gas on the highway because he didnt fill up his tank enough and instead spent the money on ridiculous overpriced snacks for the kids. I have bought generic snacks and switched them into more expensive bags, and the kids do not notice. I love my nieces and nephew, but they should not be ruling the roost when I am fighting to keep the lights on. I am this close to kicking my brother out and getting a paying roommate. I do have a lease with him.

Struggling in South

Dear Struggling,

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You need to have a very serious conversation with your brother in which you describe how his largesse with his ex and his children is impacting your household. Let him know that you will no longer pick up the slack while he spoils his kids and sends money to a woman who doesnt need it. Explain to him that you know he loves his children dearly, but that spending money that he doesnt have on them does not make him a good father. He is setting unrealistic expectations for them. Remind him about his back pain and that he could be sleeping comfortably if he would only have enough backbone to make two girls who are close in age share a room. Put your foot down. Tell him that you will be forced to find new living arrangements if he doesnt make a change. Ask him if hes truly happy with the way things are now and if he thinks they are sustainable. Bring up the fact that you all moved in together with the goal of saving money, and how you have been forced to cover for him. Since youre both on the lease, instead of kicking him out and finding a new roommate, you may have to consider leaving yourself. Stick to your guns and insist on a change and if you dont get one, take steps to untangle yourself from your brothers mess.

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Submit your questions to Care and Feeding here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.)

Dear Care and Feeding,

Anna is our only granddaughter. Our son died when she was small, and we got very involved in her life. We pay for her private school and her extracurriculars since her mother doesnt make much. Well, Annas cousins from her mothers side, Charlotte and Claire, have recently moved in with Annas family. Anna is forced to share a room with both girls, causing a lot of friction. Anna has a stepbrother who has his own room in the house but rarely occupies it. It is ridiculous to have three kids crammed into one small bedroom while the other one is unoccupied.

Anna could share the room with her stepbrother (sleep there when he isnt around), or one of the kids could take the couch. Annas mother and stepfather told us to butt out and stop favoring Anna. The stepfather has been increasingly calling her spoiled and then whines if none of the other kids get gifts from us (yet his own parents dont even send Anna a birthday card).

Annas mother had done a good thing taking on her nieces, but at a cost to Anna.

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Anna is going to high school next year and doesnt want to share her space with a pair of elementary students. Anna has spoken about moving in with us full-time over the summer, but is afraid of her mothers reaction. Our relationship with our former daughter-in-law has frazzled since she remarried. She seems to resent our presence in our granddaughters life, especially when our pocketbook doesnt pop out whenever she wants it to (she complained about not being able to afford dance and other activities for her nieces). We really dont want to make things worse here, but our advice is always rejected. Anna moving in with us seems to be the best solution, but her mother will not see it that way. What should we do?

Moving In

Dear Moving In,

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You can offer to let Anna come stay with you, but there is no guarantee that her mother will respond favorably. Still, its worth talking to her about Annas challenges in the home, even suggesting again that she share a room with her stepbrother. Let your DIL know that you only want Anna to be happy and that you arent favoring her over the other children. Talk about how difficult it will be for her to share her space with much younger girls as a high school student, who will need a quiet space to complete hours of homework. If you live close enough, perhaps you can suggest that Anna spends the week with you and the weekend with her mothers family.

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It seems somewhat unlikely that Annas mother will allow her to move in with you (though its absolutely worth it to ask). If she doesnt, continue offering Anna respite from the situation with her family and a listening ear for her to vent her frustrations. Let her know that she isnt wrong for how she feels. Perhaps raise the idea of her moving in with you a second time a few months after your first conversation with her mother, reminding her of Annas unhappiness and your willingness to offer her a comfortable living situation. Be as respectful to her as you can, for the future of your relationship with Anna (while she lives in her mothers home) depends on you and your DIL being able to get along.

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Catch Up on Care and Feeding

 Missed earlier columns this week? Read them here.

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Dear Care and Feeding,

My wife and I originally planned on having two, maybe three kids. Were both from medium sized families and close with our siblings. We have a 2-year-old daughter. We decided we were one and done before she was even born because of my wifes difficult pregnancy, and then the complicated birth made it all worse. She says she never wants to go through that again. I agree. But she wants me to get a vasectomy and I cant do it. She complains constantly about her birth control, and we also use condoms because pregnancy would be dangerous for her. But I dont know why, but I just dont want to get snipped. This is a big, consistent fight. What do I do?

No Surgery

Dear No Surgery,

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I understand how frightening the idea of going under the knife can be, but a vasectomy is a safe, simple procedure with very minimal recovery time. Youd spend a couple of days taking things easy and would be able to return to strenuous activity after a week. A procedure to prevent your wife from getting pregnant again would be much more invasive and physically taxing for her. Furthermore, a vasectomy will have a much smaller impact on you than your wife having to remain on birth control for the remainder of her fertile years. And since youve clearly had unprotected sex before, I dont have to tell you how much better it is than sex with a condom. Im sorry, but youre being selfish as hell. You know that a pregnancy can be dangerous to your wifes health, but you expect her to make the primary sacrifice to prevent that from happening, when a very small procedure could make things easier (and more pleasurable) for both of you. Your wife literally put her life on the line to give you a child, and you cant take the simplest action to protect her health? Dont be surprised if she decides that she wants to let birth controland lovemakinggo indefinitely. If youre struggling with the idea of never being able to have kids again, a vasectomy is usually a reversible procedure. You have no legitimate excuse not to get one. Step up for your wife and get the snip.

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Dear Care and Feeding,

I just let my son down in a big way, and need to know how to help make it right. He is almost 7, and an only child/only grandchild/only great-grandchild. Im a single mom. His 91-year-old great-grandma is an important part of his life. She lives 30 minutes away with her son, a temperamental curmudgeon who has an old mean dog. When my son was 1.5, the dog bit him, making a cut and tiny scar on his face. She hasnt bit or attacked anyone else, but she growls and bares her teeth when theres no threat. Weve been trying to see GG as often as possible as shes not going to be around forever, and has some signs of mild cognitive changes, plus she adores my son.

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Today, we visited in a smaller group than usual and my uncle didnt want to keep the dog in a bedroom as is the usual protocol. My son cried and asked him kindly to put her away, but he refused in a way that made me see his uncles desperation; the dog is his baby, and he is very lonely and alienated. I gently told him my son was scared, and he reluctantly put the dog away, but soon had her out, promising shed be okay. I told my son we could give her a chance and that Id ensure she went away if she growled or showed signs of aggression, but I didnt. I just watched him like a hawk and intervened anytime he was near the dog. It growled and bared teeth, and made the visit strained. How can I show my son that I have his back and will support him when hes scared? Hes very sensitive and empathetic and needs me to be his trusted supporter. I broke that trust, Im afraid. Is there any way to get it back?

Broken Trust

Dear Broken Trust,

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Though your son may have been afraid of the dog, its unlikely that he feels that he can trust you less because that happened. Thankfully, the dog didnt attack him this time. If you need to address the incident with him, tell him youre sorry that the dog made him uncomfortable and that you wont allow that to happen again. Explain that his uncle doesnt mean him harm, but that he is very attached to his dog in the way that some people are with their children. For future visits, insist that the dog is kept away from him and leave immediately if his uncle brings her out. You should ask that when he comes over, he and his great-grandmother spend time together in a separate room from his uncle. I dont know how well she gets around, but if possible, you may want to consider picking her up and spending time together at your home instead of hers.

Jamilah

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How to enjoy Bratislava for free, a population decline, and a new coffee chain coming to Slovakia.

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Good evening. Here is the Thursday, April 11 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

A different Fico in Michalovce

Ukrainian PM Denys Shmyhal and Slovak PM Robert Fico during a press conference in Michalovce, eastern Slovakia, on April 11, 2024. (Source: TASR)

Slovak and Ukrainian governments, led by premiers Robert Fico and Denys Shmyhal, held an intergovernmental meeting in Michalovce, a town in eastern Slovakia, on Thursday.

Fico emphasised that Slovakia supports Ukraines efforts to join the EU. He also noted that Russia broke international law by invading Ukraine. The Slovak premier, who halted military aid to Ukraine last year and stated in January that there is no war in Kyiv, hopes to find a peaceful solution to the conflict in Ukraine that will uphold territorial integrity, sovereignty and be fair to Ukraine.

Fico said that Slovakia supports commercial arms deals and will continue to help Ukraine clear its territory of mines.

Were here to assist you, Fico said, adding that some people in Slovakia may not comprehend the daily struggles of Ukrainian people. Our trivial wars seem insignificant compared to what youve been dealing with.

This was the second meeting of this kind. The first meeting took place in January.

Quote: We are aware that each of our countries has its national interests and priorities, which may sometimes not coincide. At the same time, we have good will, a pragmatic attitude and a desire to resolve all issues in the format of a constructive and effective dialogue. (Denys Shmyhal)

On Thursday, Ukraine and Slovakia agreed on the following: The reconstruction of the Mukachevo - Velke Kapusany electrical interconnector and of the Vysne Nemecke - Uzhhorod border crossing, diversification of nuclear fuel supplies to nuclear power plants, Slovakia to have access to Ukraines marine oil terminal and Ukrainian gas storage facilities, Slovakia to work on the prompt cancellation of unilateral restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural products, launching a direct passenger railway connection between Kyiv and Kosice by the end of this year, development of the cross-border railway route Chop - Cierna nad Tisou, and the joint production of engineering equipment for detecting and disposing of mines.

Ficos previous statements about Ukraine: Before Fico won the 2023 parliamentary elections, hed stated that no bullet would have been sent to Ukraine. He says that Ukrainian neo-Nazis are to blame for the invasion. The PM thinks that Ukraines accession to NATO would potentially lead to a third world war. He blasted the West for attempting to destroy Russia and slandering Putin in February.

More stories from The Slovak Spectator website

Politics: Population decline in Slovakia has not stopped.

Population decline in Slovakia has not stopped. Business: A Romanian coffee chain plans to open tens of coffee shops in Slovakia.

A Romanian coffee chain plans to open tens of coffee shops in Slovakia. Travel: A tourist train is hoped to reduce car traffic near a popular Muran meadow full of European ground squirrels.

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FEATURE STORY FOR THURSDAY

Slovak matters: Words that sound almost the same

(Source: wayhomestudio on freepiks.com)

Vlocky and vlozky may appear and sound similar, but their meanings could not have been more different. Which one goes with milk?

FREE EVENTS IN BRATISLAVA

The Big Show

A photo from Day 2 of the V4 Improv Connect! (Source: Funnylicious Theater)

Would you like to try improvisational theatre in English? Well, join one of the workshops running in Bratislava these days. On Friday and Saturday, you can also look forward to two shows. But if you want to try something else, here are two more tips on what to do in Bratislava for free in the coming days.

IN OTHER NEWS

Slovenska Narodna Strana, one of the three coalition parties, is trying to get the Slovak Arts Council (FPU) under the control of the Culture Ministry. The fund supports diverse artistic endeavours. Politicians have no influence on what projects are supported financially. The nationalist party wants to change this.

The EU can stop European funds for Slovakia if the government does not convince the Commission that the risk of corruption and embezzlement of European funds will not increase after the abolition of the Special Prosecutors Office and the amendment of the Penal Code. (Dennik N)

After the presidential election, president-elect Peter Pellegrini received 250,000 from his political party, Hlas. The law prohibits the practice of sending money to a candidates transparent bank account after an election. The party called it a technical error. Pellegrini can send money from his personal bank account to the transparent account, which he didnt do in this case. The Constitutional Law Parliamentary Committee stated that all five candidates for the position of judge at the Constitutional Court possess the necessary qualifications to assume the position. Two of the five names will be selected by the parliament and one of them will be chosen by the head of state. (Source: TASR) WEATHER FOR FRIDAY: Clear skies. The highest daytime temperatures will range from 16C to 24C. (SHMU)

APRIL 12 NAME DAY IN SLOVAKIA: Estera.

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P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.

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A selection of short feel-good stories from Slovakia.

Dr Martin Pekarcik helped deliver children at the hospital in Kenya, among other activities. (Source: Archive of Martin Pekarcik)

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Every week The Slovak Spectator brings you a selection of three short stories from across Slovakia from which pessimism and negativity are absent.

The Slovak doctor also helped secure the hospital's water supply

Martin Pekarcik from Trstena, in northern Slovakia, recently spent a month among the Pokot people, in rural Kenya.

He worked as a doctor in the hospital in the small town of Tikit, which has been restored thanks to another Slovak, Katarina Mulama, who is from Rabca, a small village in northern Slovakia not far from Trstena. At the same time, he collected and digitised data that should help the local hospital in the future, the regional newspaper MY Orava reported.

Among the most important projects he helped with was the introduction of a kilometre-long solar water supply system that supplies the hospital. He worked on it with Katarina's husband, Andrew Mulama. Thanks to the new water supply system, the local people can grow fruit and vegetables and learn to cultivate the soil. In the hospital, the water is used in the labs, examination rooms, kitchen and other rooms.

Without water, it was difficult for them to live there; they had a very bad harvest, nearly everything had dried up, Pekarcik told MY Orava. They used to draw water from a nearby well to the hospital, but it broke down a while ago, so they had really big problems.

Pekarcik has been continuing to help the locals since his return. For example, he helped raised money to build a new kitchen in the hospital. He also received the 2023 Srdce na Dlani (Heart-in-Hand) award, in the Volunteer Helping Abroad category, MY Orava reported.

New inhabitants in Slovakias zoos

Two of Slovakias zoos have recently welcomed new additions.

In Bojnice, two young male South African sable antelopes were born in late January and early February. They were named Fafa and Enitan.

The little ones are doing great and making the caretakers happy, the zoo wrote on Facebook.

Meanwhile, the zoo in Kosice, in eastern Slovakia, welcomed a group of Prevosts squirrels, also known as Asian tri-coloured squirrels, a colourful species of rodent that can be found in southeast Asian countries.

This type of squirrel is active during the day, mostly in the morning and early evening, the zoo wrote on Facebook, adding that even though they eat a variety of plant food and insects, their favourite is ripe fruit. After eating the soft flesh, they often throw away the stones, and thus play an important role in the ecosystem as seed dispersers.

A special delivery from Buckingham Palace

Nine-year-old Martin received a letter from Buckingham Palace. (Source: Maria Hronska)

Martin, a nine-year old from Bratislava, recently received a special letter.

Last year, he was so amazed by the coronation of British King Charles III that he decided to send him a picture he had drawn, accompanied by a letter. The picture featured the Westminster parliament clock tower known as Big Ben, with planes flying above it and emitting smoke in the colours of the British flag, the TVnoviny.sk website reported.

A few days ago, he received a reply, dated 21 March and signed by James Dawson, head of royal correspondence for King Charles.

Martin was very surprised and delighted that he received a reply to his letter, even though he didnt ask for one, Martins mother told TV Noviny.

Five feel-good stories published by The Slovak Spectator to read:

Political meme of the week

Victory (Source: SME/Mikulas Sliacky)

The result of Saturday's presidential election has, as one might expect, prompted a flurry of memes. This cartoon, by Mikulas Sliacky, alludes to the victory of Hlas chair Peter Pellegrini, who, it implies, is being directed by Prime Minister Robert Fico (who decisively supported him in the election, despite have once branded him a "traitor" after he split from Fico's Smer party in 2020)  and suggesting that Fico, who frequently repeats the Russian government's false talking points about Ukraine (for example, characterising the Kyiv government as "Nazi"), is in turn controlled by President Vladimir Putin.

You can send me your tips on good news stories about Slovakia or funny memes at: radka.minarechova@spectator.sk. Thank you!
Conservationists in Slovensky Raj National Park helped revive the wounded bird.

The injured long-tail owl, recupurating with one of its rescuers. (Source: FB Narodny park Slovensky raj so sidlom v Spisskej Novej Vsi )

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In Slovensky Raj (Slovak Paradise), a national park in eastern Slovakia, a group of cyclists came across a stricken rare owl.

Despite the bird's bedraggled condition, conservationists were able to save it, the TASR news agency reports.

Later the Slovak Paradise National Park Administration reported on social networks that it was the Ural owl, and had been found with an eye injury near a rest area alongside a popular bike path.

"She was in a pretty poor condition. We took her to the vet's, who, fortunately, did not confirm our concerns about her eye. She is emaciated, and had not been able to hunt for a long time due to her eye inflammation, but otherwise she seems to be fine. She is uninjured, and has no signs of any other malfunctioning body parts," said the park report.

The owl received an injection against parasites and an ointment that the conservationists will regularly apply to her eyes. They believe that it will be possible to fatten the owl up and return it to the wild.

They noted one hopeful sign "This [the bird's presence] indicates the spread of this beautiful owl to other parts of our nature," said the park administration.

Rescue and care for disabled animals is among the lesser-known yet important activities of the national park administration's workers. They respond to reports from anywhere within the entire park area about any protected animal in need of assistance and care.

"We are equipped to provide even long-term, undemanding care; in more complex cases, we collaborate with veterinary doctors," add the conservationists.
The Hlas leader won the presidential race thanks to many hypocrites.

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The opinion below was written by our reader Chris Helton. If you write opinions, get in touch with The Slovak Spectator. Provided theyre good, they may appear in our Opinion section.

Though I am not a Marxist, upon the election of Peter Pellegrini as president of the Slovak Republic, I am reminded of one of Karl Marxs most quoted aphorisms, History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce.

I have now lived in Slovakia for 20 years. I remember the two terms of Gasparovics presidency. With the two miraculous terms of Kiska and Caputova, I had almost deluded myself into hoping I would go to my grave without seeing another Gasparovic.

On April 6, 53 percent of the participating electorate proved me wrong.

Pellegrini is a farce of Trump and Gasparovic

Not that I was blindsided by Pellegrinis election: despite some very cautious optimism after the first round, I had expected it. Humanity often disappoints me; it very rarely surprises me. Humans are the same as they have always been. When well-meaning journalists pointed out that all of Pellegrinis talking points were fallaciousthe Slovak president cannot unilaterally commit troops to war, the EU cannot overthrow the governments of its sovereign membersI wanted to shout, Their supporters know that! They just dont care! We all talk of disinformation on the internet as if people were truly helpless sheep who eat it up without an ounce of credulity. What we often fail to realise is that many people desire to be fooled, desire to have a talking pointa talking point they know deep down is spuriousthat they can revert to at the next family gathering as justification for voting for someone who they know is a nihilist giving voice to their deepest dissatisfactions and insecurities.

I know all of this because I have family who have fallen to the cult of Donald Trump, which brings me back to Marx. Pellegrini is not only a farce of Gasparovic: hes also a farce of Trump. In 2016 and 2020, I watched in disbelief as American Christians, whom I had known personally and who had decried Clinton as an immoral sinner for his marital infidelity in the 90s, vote for a person who had openly flaunted his infidelities for decades, simply because he told them what they wanted to hear.

Blatant hypocrisy

The 2019 Slovak presidential election was practically a referendum on the traditional family. Most of us can remember the objectively terrible campaign video of Maros Sefcovic awkwardly pouring drinks at a family table while his dutiful wife prepared schnitzel. Meanwhile, Madame Caputova was derided as a divorcee. Now, the hard right has bet all their hopes on a candidate who has no traditional family to speak of.

Personally, I dont think a candidates family, or lack thereof, has any bearing on what they might bring to their political office. What I object to is the blatant hypocrisy. Many people who voted for Sefcovic in 2019 on the basis of him being a good family man are now voting for a middle-aged bachelor. Why? Because he is giving voice to their deepest dissatisfactions and insecurities. Many Americans who clutched their pearls at Clintons adultery in the 90s voted for a proud serial adulterer in 2016 and 2020. Why? Because he gave voice to their deepest dissatisfactions and insecurities.

What of Fico, who engineered all this? As much space as I have devoted to a nonentity like Pellegrini, I find Fico hardly worth writing about. Like all of us, Ficos time on earth is finite, and, when all is said and done, he will find at least one young man and woman to direct him to his resting place.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240411/russian-specialists-arrive-in-niger-to-train-local-forces-on-combating-terrorism-1117879317.html

Russian Specialists Arrive in Niger to Train Local Forces on Combating Terrorism

Russian Specialists Arrive in Niger to Train Local Forces on Combating Terrorism

Sputnik International

Russian specialists have arrived in Niger to train local forces on combating terrorism, a Sputnik correspondent reported from the scene.

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"The personnel is fully prepared and vaccinated against deceases, was acquainted with local deceases ... I think we will manage," a Russian medical worker who arrived with the specialists said.Nigerian state broadcaster RTN aired the landing of Russia's IL-76 aircraft in Niamey. The broadcaster reported that this came after a recent conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin with Abdourahmane Tchiani, the chairman of Nigers National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland.While discussing the bilateral agenda, Putin and Tchiani then expressed the intention to intensify political dialogue and the development of mutually beneficial cooperation in a wide range of areas.The broadcaster reported that the arrival of Russian specialists includes the installation of an air defense system, adding that Russian instructors will provide quality training for the Nigerien military personnel on effectively operating the system.In late July 2023, Niger's presidential guard ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, closed borders and imposed a curfew. The guard's commander, Tchiani, proclaimed himself interim leader and the president of the caretaker National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland and announced the denunciation of all military agreements with France. The withdrawal of the French military was completed in late December 2023.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240319/us-to-prepare-contingency-plans-for-whether-troops-stay-or-leave-niger---official-1117431866.html

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Around 5,000 people of Chinese descent from around the globe gathered in Xinzheng, Henan province, on Thursday to worship Huangdi, the legendary ancestor of Han Chinese also known as the Yellow Emperor.

An ancestral worship ceremony paying homage to Huangdi, or Yellow Emperor, is held Thursday in Xinzheng, central China's Henan province, on April 11, 2024. [Photo/China.org.cn]

This traditional ceremony takes place on the third day of the third month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which fell on April 11 this year. The date is believed to be Huangdi's birthday.

Huangdi is considered in Chinese mythology to be the ancestor of Han Chinese who laid foundation to Chinese civilization. In the legends, Xinzheng is known as Huangdi's hometown.

Lan Yanling, a scholar who has attended the ceremony five times, said that the event reinforces the cultural identity and pride of the Chinese civilization. "It's a tradition that resonates deeply within us and ought to be preserved and passed down," Lan said.

Zhou Naijun, an 87-year-old attendee from Shenzhen, brought his family spanning three generations to the ceremony. "I wanted my grandchildren to know where their roots lie," Zhou said. His daughter-in-law surnamed Guo added, "Understanding the origins and extensive history of our nation deepens our understanding of what it means to be Chinese."

Li Jincheng, attending for the first time from the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Union, told China.org.cn, "The ceremony is awe-inspiring, and I hope more youth from Hong Kong can come to experience this profound aspect of Chinese culture."

Taiwanese media veteran Jiang Wenbin said, "visiting the Yellow Emperor's hometown is very touching as it connects us to our roots." He said learning about the shared cultural background and the origins of surnames has been an enriching experience.

Wang Xiaopei from the Singapore Henan Association said Henan is the birthplace of the Chinese civilization. He called for people of all sectors to work together to present its culture and traditions to the outside world.

Wang Wei from Chinese Volunteer Association in Canada said he is deeply touched by the grand ceremony as well as the hospitality of people in his hometown, and that he would like to share his experience to more overseas Chinese.

For the fifth year, the event featured an online ancestral worship platform, enabling virtual participation from across the world.

After the ceremony, participants also had the opportunity to explore Henan's rich culture and learn about the socio-economic development of the Yellow Emperor's hometown in the new era.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/5-fearsome-drones-iran-could-use-to-strike-back-at-israel-1117892043.html

5 Fearsome Drones Iran Could Use to Strike Back at Israel

5 Fearsome Drones Iran Could Use to Strike Back at Israel

Sputnik International

The world holds its breath in anticipation of Irans retaliation for the April 1 Israeli strike on the Islamic Republics Embassy compound in Damascus, with observers divided on whether Tehran will pursue a direct approach (missile or drone attacks), or use tools of asymmetric warfare. Here are some of the long-range UAVs Iran has at its disposal.

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Israeli and US officials fear imminent Iranian retaliation to last weeks Embassy Compound attack, with US officials telling media that Tehran might target military sites inside Israel with over 100 drones and dozens of missiles, and the White House expressing hope that the response will not draw the US into the fray directly.With its defense industry rising from the ashes of the bloody Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s, the Islamic Republic slowly established its reputation as one of the worlds leading missile and drone powers, with the countrys defense scientists creating over fifty different drone designs and counting, from short-range tactical UAVs and loitering munitions to rocket and propeller powered long-range reconnaissance, attack and electronic warfare drones.Mindful of the experience of arms embargoes and sanctions on its defense sector, Iran prides itself in the development and production of armaments with an extremely high rate of indigenization of components, and when it comes to drones, has created both homegrown designs and projects reverse-engineered from American and Israeli UAVs which made the mistake of flying into the Islamic Republics airspace.With dozens of designs to choose from, its difficult to narrow down which drones, if any, Iran may end up using for its revenge attack against Israel. Complicating matters is the difficulty of determining where the attack comes from. The distance between the westernmost areas of Iran and the Jewish State ranges between 1,000 and 1,300 km. However, thanks to a network of state and non-state allies in the region, the distance between potential Israeli targets and drone launch points can shrink to as little as 100 km. Sputniks list consists mostly of drones Iran can launch from its own territory, and has been designed to feature as many different types of Iranian drone designs as possible.Shahed 136The Shahed 136 (lit. Witness 136) is a unique, simple and low-cost delta-wing drone design created by the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company (Persian Acronym HESA) and Shahed Aviation Industries  creators of an entire lineup of UAVs and military helicopters.The 200 kg apiece drones are 3.5 meters long and have a wingspan of 2.5 meters, with the UAVs piston engine powering a twin-blade pusher propeller.The Shahad 136 was unveiled in 2021, and has been deployed en masse among Irans armed forces over the past three years. Mohajer 10Among the newest drone designs in Irans arsenal is the Mohajer 10 (lit. Immigrant 10 or Holy Migrant 10), a multipurpose UAV unveiled in 2023 designed for surveillance, long-range strikes, electronic warfare and full-spectrum superiority.Designed by the Qods Aviation Industries Company  Irans oldest manufacturer of drones, the Mohajer 10 is a medium-altitude, long-endurance UAV, at 6.5x4.2x18.2 meters and an operational range up to 2,000 km, is one of the largest unmanned aerial vehicles in the nations arsenal.The Mohajer series of drones first appeared in the mid-1980s, and initially served reconnaissance purposes. The Mohajer 10 was designed to meet the needs of the Iranian Armys Ground Forces, and those of the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Ground Force and Navy.Arash 2Created by the Defense Industries Organization, the Arash 2 (lit. Hero 2 or Truthfulness 2) is a propeller-powered strike drone with a 2,000 km range, a top speed of up to 185 km per hour and a flight ceiling of 12,000 feet.In addition to its package of explosives, the Arash 2 reportedly features capabilities designed to suppress enemy air defenses.KarrarThe HESA Karrar (lit. Violent Attacker) constitutes a family of versatile, jet-powered UAVs  first introduced in 2010 and widely believed to have taken design cues from the Beechcraft MQM-107 Streaker.Created primarily as a target drone by the military and the IRGC for target anti-air and anti-missile target practice during drills, the Karrar has become a universal UAV thanks to the ingenuity of Iranian defense scientists, who have converted variants of the drone to carry 225 kg bombs, anti-ship missiles and torpedoes, satellite-guided glide bombs and even air-to-air missiles.Karrars have reportedly found their way into the hands of Lebanons Hezbollah militias, and have been used by allies of the Assad government against terrorists through the course of the CIA-led dirty war against Syria in the 2010s.Kaman 22Rounding out this list is the Kaman 22 (lit. Bow of Army 22)  an ultra-long range unmanned combat aerial vehicle developed and manufactured by the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. Unveiled in 2021, the drone is remarkable for being Irans first wide-body combat drone with a range up to 3,000 km, a 24-hour endurance time, an 8,000-meter service ceiling and a 300 kg weapons payload.This large UAV, compared by some defense observers to the MQ-1 Predator (but with an upward, rather than downward mounted V-shaped tail, and design cues from other indigenous, Iranian-made drones, such as the Shahed 129, the Fotros and Hamaseh), is a whopping 6,5 meters long, 2.5 meters tall and has a wingspan of up to 17 meters.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230823/irans-new-mohajer-10-drone-shows-its-achieved-deterrence-without-nuclear-weapons---expert-1112822702.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231211/watch-iran-show-off-newest-karrar-combat-drone-with-anti-air-missiles-1115526264.html

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what kinds of long-range drones does iran have, can iran hit israel using drones
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/biden-growing-frustrated-with-congress-delay-to-approve-ukraine-aid-no-plan-b---reports-1117879813.html

Biden Frustrated With Congressional Delay in Approving Ukraine Aid, No Plan B - Reports

Biden Frustrated With Congressional Delay in Approving Ukraine Aid, No Plan B - Reports

Sputnik International

The Biden administration is growing frustrated with Congress' delay in approving new Ukraine aid because it has no backup plan to help Kiev, Bloomberg News reported citing people familiar with the matter.

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The report released on Thursday indicated that the Biden administration is growing increasingly frustrated with European allies for their delays in formulating a plan to use earnings from frozen sovereign Russian assets to aid Ukraine.There are concerns mounting that Russian forces could make major gains in Ukraine in the coming weeks, the report noted.US officials said "there is no Plan B for the United States to help Ukraine aside from the $60 billion in military aid included in the Senate-passed supplemental bill, the report said. Earlier this week, House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters that he and his colleagues are still reviewing different options to potentially tackle the Ukraine aid issue.GOP Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and other Republican hardliners have threatened to move forward on a motion to oust Johnson from his position as House Speaker if they are displeased with his handling of funding for Ukraine. The United States has been unable to provide Ukraine with significant security packages since funding dried up in late December.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240208/ukraine-support-collapsing-what-are-bidens-options-to-fund-kiev-1116669518.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240308/bidens-state-of-the-union-address-why-us-vow-to-fight-till-last-ukrainian-is-not-reassuring-1117205367.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/britains-dragonfire-battle-laser-war-winning-weapon-or-100-mln-optical-illusion-1117886992.html

Britains DragonFire Battle Laser: War-Winning Weapon or 100 Mln Optical Illusion?

Britains DragonFire Battle Laser: War-Winning Weapon or 100 Mln Optical Illusion?

Sputnik International

Britain's defense secretary told reporters on Thursday that a prototype of the UK's new drone and missile-destroying DragonFire laser platform could be sent to Ukraine for combat testing, boasting that the system is so advanced that nothing like it is likely to be developed by any other country any time soon. What do we know about DragonFire?

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The UKs ambitious DragonFire program isnt the panacea Britains defense establishment seems to think it is, with laser weapons coming a long way since the 1970s and 1980s but still having quite a ways to go. Thats the assessment of veteran Russian military observer and defense tech expert Alexei Leonkov.It was thought for a long time that the creation of a combat laser which can be used during combat operations was something for the distant future, Leonkov recalled in a recent interview with Russian media, commenting on footage put out by the UK Ministry of Defense in March showing a test of the DragonFire system.The systems power requirements and low rate of fire are additional problems, ordinarily requiring large, bulky high-capacity energy capacitors to be carried along with the system to provide necessary power. Its not clear whether or how British defense scientists have resolved this issue.On top of that, Leonkov said, the properties of Earths atmosphere and various natural factors (cloud cover, rain, snow, fog, dust, soot and smoke, and other factors affecting visibility) make it difficult to perfect laser technologies capable of doing damage beyond blinding the enemy, or targeting at close ranges, if weather, climactic and ground conditions are right.Britains Battle Laser: What Do We Know About It?Britains MoD released dramatic footage of a test of the DragonFire directed energy weapon in March, showing the system firing a powerful beam of light into the night sky. Along with the testing footage, dated from the third quarter of 2023, the MoD released a computer graphic showing the laser being carried by a British warship and targeting a small boat, blinding an enemy drone and destroying two others. The system is also reportedly effective against mortars, and defense officials hope it could be used against ballistic missiles.Defense Secretary Grant Shapps told reporters Thursday that the MoD is looking to fast track the development of the system, which he said could have huge ramifications, and that prototypes of the system could be deployed to Ukraine.Im absolutely certain that what weve got going on here is very special, and a level that other countries are unlikely to be replicating because its so cutting-edge, Shapps said.According to the defense secretary, Ukraine might get prototypes of the system before its 100 percent perfect, even though Britain itself plans to deploy DragonFire only three years from now, in 2027.Shapps comments are a marked turnaround from a report in Newsweek in March confirming the Kiev regime had expressed interest in DragonFire, but that there are no plans to deploy it from the UK side. Previously deployed British military assistance to Ukraine has been destroyed en masse by Russian forces over the past two years, with troops also capturing dozens of advanced UK weapons, including Storm Shadow cruise missiles.Britain first announced plans to build a 100 million laser-directed energy weapon in 2016, with the DragonFire first presented to the public in 2017, but technical problems and Covid blamed for delays to trials, which were expected to start in 2019 but actually kicked off only in 2022.Whats confirmed about the DragonFire:Directed Energy Weapons Long HistoryDirected energy weapons go back to at least the third century BC, when, during the Siege of Syracuse, Greek soldiers set fire to Roman warships from afar at the direction of Greek polymath Archimedes, who devised a heat ray concentrating the Suns rays using a polished mirror or convex copper lens.Considered until not too long ago to be the stuff of science fiction, lasers created for military applications began to be used in the 1970s and 1980s for things like range finding and missile guidance, with the Soviet Union and the United States acting as pioneers in the field. Taking a page out of the USs Star Wars platform, Soviet scientists went as far as developing high-powered lasers for missile defense known as the Terra-3 program, and other innovations including an open-type CO2-based laser to paralyze missiles and aircraft and strike distant targets as small as a coin.The club of countries with directed energy weapons is small but growing, with Russia, the US, China, Israel, France, Germany, India, Pakistan, Iran and Turkiye creating or working on them. Russias best-known laser weapon is the Peresvet laser platform  which is capable of blinding optical reconnaissance satellites and targeting drones. Israel has developed the aforementioned Iron Beam  designed to shoot down low-cost enemy projectile. China has created its Norinco AW5 series of ground-based lasers. In the US, Kratos, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Boeing and DARPA are leading the way in the creation of air, sea and ground-based laser weapons  with the AN/SEQ-3 ship-based laser being the best-known among them.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240321/pentagons-plan-for-first-operational-airborne-laser-weapon-bites-the-dust-1117464523.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230927/how-laser-weapons-work-1113652558.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240301/us-sends-4-stryker-vehicles-with-50kw-laser-weapons-to-middle-east-for-testing---reports-1117080678.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230614/russias-combat-laser-systems-1111141950.html

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what is britain's battle laser, does britain have battle laser
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/china-calls-us-decision-to-put-mid-range-missile-system-in-asia-pacific-dangerous-trend-1117884540.html

China Castigates Dangerous US Decision to Put Mid-Range Missiles in Asia-Pacific

China Castigates Dangerous US Decision to Put Mid-Range Missiles in Asia-Pacific

Sputnik International

The US decision to deploy intermediate-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region is a dangerous trend and China will resolutely oppose it, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said on Friday.

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On Wednesday, a US Army Pacific spokesperson told Sputnik that the United States is on track to deploy a medium-range missile system in the Asia-Pacific by the end of this year. "The US intention to deploy medium-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region is a dangerous trend that will seriously threaten the security of the countries in the region and cause serious damage to regional peace and stability. China resolutely opposes this and will resolutely oppose it," Wu told reporters.The planned deployment of a mid-range missile system in the Asia-Pacific would be the first of its kind since the United States and Russia agreed to the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 1987. The INF Treaty previously prohibited the United States and Russia from possessing surface-launched medium-range ballistic and cruise missiles with a range between 500 and 5,500 kilometers.However, both the United States and Russia withdrew from the INF Treaty in 2019.It's still unclear what US ally in the Asia-Pacific will host the mid-range missile system, but the United States reportedly hopes it will serve as a deterrent to China.The Chinese Embassy in Washington said the US plans to deploy the mid-range missile system in the Asia-Pacific will undermine regional stability.The United States must refrain from introducing bloc confrontation, conflict and turmoil to the Asia-Pacific, Liu added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240319/missile-milestone-for-us-allies-but-security-dilemma-for-asia-1117422153.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/iran-warns-it-will-attack-us-forces-in-mideast-if-it-helps-defend-israel---reports-1117896412.html

Iran Warns It Will Attack US Forces in Mideast If It Helps Defend Israel - Reports

Iran Warns It Will Attack US Forces in Mideast If It Helps Defend Israel - Reports

Sputnik International

Tehran warned Washington that it will attack US forces in the Middle East if the United States gets involved in a military confrontation between Iran and Israel, Axios reported on Friday, citing three US officials familiar with the matter.

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Last week, Israel carried out an airstrike on the consular annex of the Iranian Embassy in Damascus, destroying the building. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said seven of its members had been killed in the attack, including two commanders. Iran is expected to conduct retaliatory strikes against Israel in the coming hours or days. The Iranian message was that if the United States gets involved after the anticipated Iranian attack on Israel, US bases in the region will be attacked, the report said. However, a US official told Axios that it's unclear if Iran is threatening to attack US forces in the region if they help Israel intercept Iranian missiles or only if they participate in an Israeli counteroffensive. The US intelligence community believes Iran could attack US forces only if the United States joins Israel in a counteroffensive, the report said, citing a US official. Two US officials, the report added, said Iran aims to conduct a limited response that will not lead to a regional escalation. The United States is communicating directly with Iran through the formal Swiss channel of communication, but Iran relayed its threats through several Arab countries, the report said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240405/iran-vs-israel-military-comparison-whos-tougher-1117759486.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/israel-prepared-to-defend-itself-against-looming-iranian-attack---defense-minister-1117895759.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/israel-expects-irans-direct-attack-within-next-24-to-48-hours---reports-1117879966.html

Israel Expects Iran's Direct Attack Within Next 24 to 48 Hours - Reports

Israel Expects Iran's Direct Attack Within Next 24 to 48 Hours - Reports

Sputnik International

Israel is expecting a direct attack from Iran on southern or northern Israel within the next 24 to 48 hours, The Wall Street Journal has reported, citing a person familiar with the matter.

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The report said on Thursday, citing a person briefed by the Iranian leadership, that no final decision has been made yet, although plans for an attack are being discussed. The Iranian Foreign Ministry said it "reserves the right" to respond to the Israeli attack and "punish the aggressor." Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi also vowed that Israel would pay a "heavy price" for the strike.US media reported earlier, citing Iranian and US intelligence sources, that Iran plans to strike dozens of sensitive targets in Israel, including energy infrastructure and various other facilities, using ballistic missiles and drones carrying explosives.A potential direct attack from Iran on the territory of Israel would require an appropriate response, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to a statement by the Israeli Defense Ministry.In a conversation, Gallant and Austin discussed preparedness for a possible Iranian attack, and Gallant told his American counterpart that Israel "will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory."On April 1, Israel carried out an airstrike on the consular annex of the Iranian embassy in Damascus, destroying the building. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said seven of its members had been killed in the attack, including two commanders. The Syrian Health Ministry said the next day that the attack had also killed four Syrians and injured 13 more.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240411/irans-top-8-missiles-that-could-strike-israel-1117873177.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/israel-prepared-to-defend-itself-against-looming-iranian-attack---defense-minister-1117895759.html

Israel Prepared to Defend Itself Against Looming Iranian Attack - Defense Minister

Israel Prepared to Defend Itself Against Looming Iranian Attack - Defense Minister

Sputnik International

Israel is ready to defend itself against Iran's looming attack on the ground and in the air in close cooperation with partners, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said on Friday.

2024-04-12T16:38+0000

2024-04-12T16:38+0000

2024-04-12T16:38+0000

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"The world sees the true face of Iran, which supports and funds terror proxies across the Middle East, and now threatens to attack Israel. We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond," Gallant said on X, following a meeting with US Central Command (CENTCOM) head Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla at the Hatzor Airbase in central Israel. In a separate post, Gallant called the US a "true friend of Israel," adding that the two countries "stand shoulder to shoulder" in the face of common threats. Iran said it reserved the right to retaliate against Israel. A US State Department spokesperson said on Thursday that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had called his Chinese, Turkish and Saudi counterparts asking them to urge Tehran "not to escalate." Meanwhile, CBS reported, citing two US officials, that a major Iranian retaliation against Israel was expected as soon as this Friday.IDF Monitors Situation in Iran, Prepares to Repel Threats in Coordination With USThe Israeli military is closely monitoring the situation in Iran and prepares to repel threats in coordination with the US military, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of General Staff LTG Herzi Halevi said on Friday.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/5-fearsome-drones-iran-could-use-to-strike-back-at-israel-1117892043.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/mexican-embassy-raid-jorge-glas-is-ecuadors-julian-assange-1117878844.html

Mexican Embassy Raid: Jorge Glas is Ecuador's Julian Assange

Mexican Embassy Raid: Jorge Glas is Ecuador's Julian Assange

Sputnik International

The prosecution and persecution of former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas is similar to the Julian Assange case, journalist Esteban Carrillo told radio Sputnik on Thursday.

2024-04-12T03:52+0000

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julian assange

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In many ways, Jorge Glas is the Ecuadorian equivalent to Julian Assange, Ecuadorian journalist and editor of The Cradle Esteban Carrillo told Sputniks Fault Lines on Thursday.Glas reportedly attempted suicide last week and is now on a hunger strike. He was transferred to a hospital on Tuesday and is now said to be in stable condition. Glas served as vice president of Ecuador from 2013 to 2017. He was released from prison in 2022 after serving more than four years. Glas has long maintained that the corruption charges against him are politically motivated.Ecuador, under a previous administration, gave Julian Assange asylum in the countrys embassy in the UK, before the UK government convinced the then-Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno to revoke his asylum.Though the situations differ significantly: Assange is a journalist while Glas was a public official and Ecuadors recognized government approved the UK operation to arrest Assange, the Ecuadorian connection and the fact that both events include police storming an embassy make the parallels difficult to ignoreWhy? Because when he was vice president, in Ecuador, we had an earthquake, a very bad earthquake, he led the reconstruction efforts in [the] province where the earthquake hit worst, Carrillo began. He built a park that didnt exist before. He built a park on top of a hole in the ground. And this, according to the attorney generals office, is corruption.Glas was accused of corruption and bribery related to those construction efforts. Prosecutors alleged and convicted Glas of taking bribes from a Brazilian construction company. Glas maintains that the case against him was built on lies. Glas was a part of the leftist Rafael Correa government.Moreno, who was once an ally of both Correa and Glas, turned sharply right after entering office and removed Glas' powers as vice president before eventually having him arrested. Successive Ecuadorian leaders have come from the political right in the country.Jorge Glas is a trophy. He was vice president for Rafael Correa during his 10 years of a leftist government in Ecuador that did so much for the country, much in the same way Assange is for the US security state, Carrillo explained.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240410/ecuadors-ex-vice-president-glas-on-hunger-strike-tried-to-commit-suicide---ex-president-1117857133.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240410/biden-says-considering-australias-request-to-end-julian-assange-prosecution-1117854053.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/new-mobilization-law-in-ukraine-may-go-into-effect-in-second-half-of-may---lawmaker-1117886558.html

New Mobilization Law in Ukraine May Go Into Effect in Second Half of May - Lawmaker

New Mobilization Law in Ukraine May Go Into Effect in Second Half of May - Lawmaker

Sputnik International

The law tightening mobilization in Ukraine may go into effect in the second half of May, Yevheniya Kravchuk, a member of the Ukrainian parliament, said on Friday.

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On Thursday, the countrys parliament adopted a bill on mobilization aimed at replenishing Ukrainian forces depleted by two years of military conflict with Russia. "I suppose the law will come into force in the second half of May. President [Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky] will sign it, then it will be released, plus a month [will pass until it goes into effect]," Kravchuk said. The new draft, among other measures, gives those liable for military service 60 days to appear at military registration and enlistment offices to clarify their registration data. Until now, draft offices had to rely on sometimes incomplete and outdated data. The summons now can be sent through the conscript's electronic account. Those who are evading conscription might have their driving license suspended, Last week, Zelensky signed separate legislation into law to lower the minimum conscription age to 25 from 27.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240403/signing-of-mobilization-law-indicates-zelensky-is-desperate-1117722253.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/oil-price-above-90-bracing-for-iran-retaliatory-strikes-on-israel-1117897658.html

Oil Price Above $90 Bracing for Iran Retaliatory Strikes on Israel

Oil Price Above $90 Bracing for Iran Retaliatory Strikes on Israel

Sputnik International

The global crude benchmark Brent on Friday stayed above the key bullish level of $90 per barrel, as buyers piled in amid speculation that Iran will conduct retaliatory strikes against Israel for the latter attacking Irans diplomatic compound in Syria.

2024-04-12T17:41+0000

2024-04-12T17:41+0000

2024-04-13T12:07+0000

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john shelton

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Retaliatory strikes against Israel could expand the existing conflict in the Gaza Strip and pose very significant ramifications to global relations as well as oil markets, according to analysts. "Today is very much a commodity-based rally with some fears of Iran/Israel developments over the weekend," Scott Shelton, a crude futures broker for ICAP in North Carolina, said in an email to his clients, shared with Sputnik News. The UK-based Brent crude was up $1.17, or 1.3%, to $90.91 per barrel in New York trading by 12:00 p.m. ET (17:00 GMT). The global crude benchmark lost nearly 2% combined for Monday and Tuesday, but has since pared those losses for a weekly slide of just 0.3%. Brents high for Friday was $92.18, a level not seen since its peak of $92.45 on October 23. If that peak is taken out, then the next comparison would be the $93.79 high reached on October 20. West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the benchmark for US crude, was up $1.20, or 1.4%, to $86.22 per barrel in New York trading. Like Brent, WTI fell 2% in the first two sessions of this week before paring losses to head towards a weekly decline of 0.7%. On Friday, WTI hit a five-month high of $87.63, matching its peak from a week ago. If that peak is taken out, then the next comparison for the US crude benchmark would be the $88.29 high reached on October 23. Crude futures have rallied broadly since the start of 2024, with WTI up 20% on the year and Brent standing 18% higher. Traders are now eyeing the possibility of Brent reaching $100 and WTI $90 between May and June. "Being long" refers to adding to bullish bets that prices would go higher. Disruptions to crude shipments out of the Middle East - both real and perceived - have been steadily pushing oil markets higher since the start of the year. If Iran acts against Israel, it will add fuel to a market already ablaze from geopolitical frictions, analysts say. Global news networks have been speculating about an imminent Iran attack on Israel with precision weapons since Bloomberg first raised that possibility on Wednesday, citing assessments by US and Israeli intelligence. US President Joe Biden added to the speculation when he said on Wednesday that he was aware of the threat posed to Israel by Iran. Biden also said he held a meeting with visiting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and sought to address, among a range of issues, the alleged "Iranian threat." US Defense Department officials told Sputnik earlier this week that they had no information to provide on a possible imminent strike against Israel.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240405/oil-price-exceeds-90-per-barrel-in-biggest-weekly-rally-since-early-february-1117769090.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/israel-prepared-to-defend-itself-against-looming-iranian-attack---defense-minister-1117895759.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/poland-sending-troops-ahead-of-deployment-in-ukraine---zaporozhye-region-official-1117888558.html

Poland Sending Troops Ahead of Deployment in Ukraine - Zaporozhye Region Official

Poland Sending Troops Ahead of Deployment in Ukraine - Zaporozhye Region Official

Sputnik International

Poland is preparing its military personnel for entry into Ukraine, with some already arriving in the operation zone in small groups under the guise of mercenaries, Vladimir Rogov, a senior official of the Zaporozhye regional administration, told Sputnik on Friday.

2024-04-12T12:26+0000

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"Under the guise of mercenaries, there is ongoing combat alignment in real combat conditions and training of Polish army personnel for the possible introduction of a Polish contingent to Ukraine and participation in the conflict against Russia," Rogov said. Polish soldiers come in separate units, usually not larger than a company, for a month or a month and a half and rotate, he added. He added that the newly arrived group of the Polish military is currently located in the Orekhov area of the Zaporozhye front line.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240406/poland-raises-fears-of-evil-russian-empire-as-pretext-for-frantic-militarization-1117782852.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/president-macron-plans-to-boost-military-production-in-france-1117884268.html

President Macron Plans to Boost Military Production in France

President Macron Plans to Boost Military Production in France

Sputnik International

French defense companies need to further increase military production in the country, French President Emmanuel Macron said during a visit to explosives production plant Eurenco.

2024-04-12T09:59+0000

2024-04-12T09:59+0000

2024-04-12T10:00+0000

military

emmanuel macron

france

ukraine

russia

europe

military production

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On Thursday, Macron laid the foundation stone for a new gunpowder factory in Bergerac in western France. The plant existed since 1915, but ceased production in 2007. "We are ready to enter into long-term geopolitical and geostrategic changes in which the role of the defense industry will become increasingly important," Macron told reporters in a speech broadcast on the official Elysee Palace X account, adding that the world will not collapse tomorrow if hostilities were to cease tomorrow.Citing Russia's rearmament efforts, he said France has already tripled the production rate of Caesar howitzers supplied to Ukraine, noting that it also sells them around the world. In terms of ammunition production, Eurenco has doubled its production since the start of the conflict in Ukraine. "We will go even further. The new plant in Bergerac, which will add to the existing production in Sweden, should allow to double it again," Macron said.Toward the end of February, after a conference on Ukraine in Paris, Macron suggested that Western leaders had explored the idea of deploying troops to Ukraine. While no unanimous decision was reached, Macron emphasized that all options remained on the table.In response to Macron's remarks, several EU nations swiftly refuted the notion of troop deployment, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who stated that NATO had no plans to send troops to Ukraine. The Kremlin reacted to Macron's statements by asserting that NATO troop deployment in Ukraine would inevitably lead to direct conflict between the alliance and Russia.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/boy-king-who-cried-wolf-macrons-constant-threats-to-send-troops-to-ukraine-signals-weakness-1117585743.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/russian-foreign-ministry-summons-french-ambassador-over-sejournes-remark-on-dialogue-1117890759.html

Russian Foreign Ministry Summons French Ambassador Over Sejournes Remark on Dialogue

Russian Foreign Ministry Summons French Ambassador Over Sejournes Remark on Dialogue

Sputnik International

The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Friday that it had summoned French Ambassador in Moscow Pierre Levy in connection with the recent remark by French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne about his lack of interest in dialogue with Russia.

2024-04-12T13:22+0000

2024-04-12T13:22+0000

2024-04-12T13:22+0000

russia

russian foreign ministry

moscow

france

paris

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"On April 12, French Ambassador to Russia P. Levy was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry. In connection with recent statements by Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France S. Sejourne about the lack of interest on the French side in talking to Russian officials because the statements they publish allegedly contain false information, the French ambassador was pointed out to the unacceptability of such statements, which have nothing to do with reality," the ministry said in a statement. Russia considers Sejournes statement as a deliberate action of Paris aimed at undermining a possibility of dialogue between the countries, the ministry added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240301/france-will-not-send-troops-to-ukraine-to-conduct-military-operations---foreign-minister-1117074855.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/swiss-efforts-to-be-wasted-if-moscow-given-ultimatum-after-ukraine-conference---lavrov-1117886683.html

Swiss Efforts to Be Wasted if Moscow Given Ultimatum After Ukraine Conference - Lavrov

Swiss Efforts to Be Wasted if Moscow Given Ultimatum After Ukraine Conference - Lavrov

Sputnik International

Swiss efforts made at achieving peace in Ukraine will be wasted if Russia is given ultimatums after the first summit in June, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday.

2024-04-12T11:57+0000

2024-04-12T11:57+0000

2024-04-12T11:57+0000

world

ukraine crisis

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russia

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"First of all, they [organizers of the conference in Switzerland] are not going to invite us. They just blatantly said that they needed to issue a collective ultimatum to Russia first. Well, that just blows any chance of any success for this Swiss effort, Lavrov told a briefing in Minsk. Lavrov also called giving Moscow ultimatums a path to nowhere, adding that Ukraine and the West have no desire to conduct business in a fair manner.Switzerland to Decide on Sending Invitation to Russia to Ukraine Summit Soon - Swiss FMSwitzerland will evaluate various statements made by Russia regarding the Ukraine peace summit and will decide on sending an invitation to Moscow in the coming days, Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis said on Friday.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240410/russia-skips-swiss-held-ukraine-conference-as-bern-asserts-no-peace-possible-without-moscow-1117851424.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/trailblazers-of-space-flight-1117884451.html

Looking Back at Space Travels Trailblazers

Looking Back at Space Travels Trailblazers

Sputnik International

Cosmonautics Day, also known as the International Day of Human Space Flight, is celebrated annually on April 12.

2024-04-12T10:52+0000

2024-04-12T10:52+0000

2024-04-12T12:11+0000

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yuri gagarin

valentina tereshkova

earth

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Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first person to travel into space aboard the Vostok spacecraft on April 12, 1961.The Soviet Air Force pilot completed a full orbit around Earth, his flight lasting 1 hour 48 minutes.Valentina Tereshkova, the world's first female cosmonaut, set off into space on June 16, 1963, aboard the Vostok-6 spacecraft. She completed 48 orbits around the Earth. On June 19, her descent module landed safely in the Altai Territory.Yet another milestone in spaceflight was reached by Alexey Leonov  the first person to ever walk in space. On March 18, 1965, the Russian cosmonaut exited the spacecraft through an airlock during the Voskhod 2 mission and maneuvered outside for 12 minutes and 9 seconds.In recognition of Gagarin's historic achievement, the UN General Assembly proclaimed April 12 the International Day of Human Space Flight on April 7, 2011.Take a look at Sputnik's gallery to see how space travel was pioneered.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/ukraine-asks-france-to-help-hold-positions-in-2024-to-launch-new-counteroffensive--reports-1117887775.html

Ukraine Asks France to Help Hold Positions in 2024 to Launch New Counteroffensive - Reports

Ukraine Asks France to Help Hold Positions in 2024 to Launch New Counteroffensive - Reports

Sputnik International

Kiev has asked Paris to help the Ukrainian military hold the positions on the battlefield this year so that it can launch a new counteroffensive in 2025, a French official who took part in the talks with the Ukrainian authorities has told Le Figaro newspaper.

2024-04-12T12:11+0000

2024-04-12T12:11+0000

2024-04-12T12:25+0000

military

sergey lavrov

ukraine

kiev

russia

nato

russia-nato showdown

military aid

foreign military aid

us military aid

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"The Ukrainians are telling us: help us make it through 2024, and we will be able to resume the counteroffensive in 2025," the official said. Ukraine is in need of the SAMP/T air defense system, the official added. However, MBDA, which manufactures the Aster 30 missiles for the platform, will not be able to provide Kiev with more missiles in the near future, as the French military also needs them, Le Figaro reported. Western countries have provided hundreds of billions of dollars worth of aid to Ukraine since the start of Russia's special military operation in February 2022. Aid shipments began in 2022 with artillery munitions and training and have escalated to include tanks, advanced air-defense systems, missiles and cluster munitions.The Kremlin has consistently warned against the West's continued arms deliveries to Ukraine, saying that they only prolong the conflict, adding that Western military equipment will be eventually destroyed. Moscow also cautioned that NATO countries are playing with fire by providing Kiev with arms.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240112/over-1-billion-in-us-weapons-sent-to-ukraine-could-be-stolen--report-1116128480.html

ukraine

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/ukraine-can-fulfill-russias-requirements-without-compromising-own-statehood---russian-un-envoy-1117894002.html

Ukraine Can Fulfill Russias Requirements Without Compromising Own Statehood - Russian UN Envoy

Ukraine Can Fulfill Russias Requirements Without Compromising Own Statehood - Russian UN Envoy

Sputnik International

Ukraine can reach a peace agreement with Russia and fulfill Moscows security requirements without compromising its sovereignty and statehood, Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia said on Friday.

2024-04-12T15:50+0000

2024-04-12T15:50+0000

2024-04-12T15:50+0000

world

ukraine crisis

ukraine

russia

the united nations (un)

un security council (unsc)

vassily nebenzia

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"Our justified and well-grounded demands to our neighbor  are well known. Ukraine can achieve this and meet these demands without detriment to its sovereignty and statehood," Nebenzia said during a meeting of the UN Security Council. The Russian ambassador said if Ukraine wanted peace, it would have reached a peace agreement long ago. Nebenzia also said that Germany was able to end Nazism and Japan was able to end militarism, and these developments did not result in the disappearance of their states. Regarding the current situation, Nebenzia said, given Ukraines constant losses on the battlefield, it is being transformed into a terrorist state.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/ukraine-not-showing-readiness-for-dialogue-with-russia---kremlin-1117885167.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/unearthed-doc-reveals-french-fascist-forces-collaboration-with-ukrainian-nationalists-during-wwii-1117897830.html

Unearthed Doc Reveals French Fascist Forces Collaboration With Ukrainian Nationalists During WWII

Unearthed Doc Reveals French Fascist Forces Collaboration With Ukrainian Nationalists During WWII

Sputnik International

Russia and France have not fought one another since the Patriotic War of 1812, and were allies during both the First and Second World Wars. However, the fight of French fascist forces allied to Hitler against the USSR during WWII is a well-documented fact, even if its often unjustly relegated to the status of a historical footnote.

2024-04-12T18:25+0000

2024-04-12T18:25+0000

2024-04-12T18:25+0000

russia

russia

france

nazi

adolf hitler

world war ii

great patriotic war

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Amid a stream of belligerent statements coming out of the Elysee Palace in recent weeks about the possible deployment of French troops in Ukraine to fight Russia, Russias Federal Security Service has dug through Soviet World War II-era NKVD archives and discovered that its not the first time French volunteers have joined with Ukrainian nationalist forces hostile to Moscow.On Friday, the FSB greenlit the publication of a bombshell intel report dated January 16, 1943 highlighting cooperation between French fascist volunteer units and their Ukrainian fascist counterparts.The report was written by Pavel Sudoplatov, a legendary Soviet Ukrainian spy chief heading up the 4th Directorate of the NKVD (which was tasked with reconnaissance and sabotage and behind-the-front activities during the war) and addressed to Deputy Peoples Commissar of Internal Affairs Vsevolod Merkulov. It highlighted the situation for partisans in Bryansk region - which would remain occupied by the Nazis and their allies until the fall of 1943.The document went on to cite a captured French corporal who revealed German plans to mount a large-scale operation against partisans in the Kletnyanskiy forest area, and that they were waiting for reinforcements, including aircraft and tanks.The document did not elaborate on the Ukrainian nationalist forces involved, although upwards of 250,000 Ukrainians were recruited for service in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS (1st Ukrainian), in Schutzmannschaft (auxiliary police) formations used for anti-partisan operations, the Freiwilligen-Stamm-Division (alongside collaborator Russians), as well as the Nachtigall and Roland Battalions.Separate to but collaborating with these forces were volunteers from the so-called Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA)  a notorious ultranationalist, anti-Soviet resistance movement responsible for the murders of hundreds of thousands of Soviet civilians, officials and soldiers, including anti-fascist Ukrainians, Jews, Poles and Russians. The UPA are officially revered as heroes by the present-day Ukrainian government.The Legion of French Volunteers Against Bolshevism is one of dozens of armed formations which provided upwards of one million non-German volunteers in the Wehrmacht during World War II, most of them fighting on the Eastern Front against the Soviet Union. The French legion was formed in July 1941, at the very beginning of the Nazi invasion of the USSR, and numbered upwards of 2,300 men at any one time (with some 5,800 volunteers total joining its ranks through the war). The force was disbanded in 1944 after being hopelessly smashed by Soviet forces during Operation Bagration  which liquidated three Axis armies and eased the Western Allies campaign in Western Europe by tying down Nazi troops on the Eastern Front.The French legion is notable for being the only foreign unit of the Wehrmacht to have taken part in the advance on Moscow in 1941, with its remnants transferred to the 7th Grenadier Brigade of the 33rd Waffen Genadier Division of the SS Charlemagne in 1944. Ultimately, these forces took part in the Nazis frantic, desperate attempts to defend Berlin in the spring of 1945, including the area around the Reich Chancellery and the Fuhrerbunker, which Soviet and Lublin Army Polish forces jointly liberated on May 2, one week before the close of the Second World War in Europe.French forces fighting on the Eastern Front were not limited to fascists allied to Hitler. Between 1942 and 1945, on the instructions of French Resistance leader and future president Charles De Gaulle, the Normandie-Niemen fighter unit was formed to fight alongside the Red Army against Nazi Germany and its allies. The unit carried out over 5,000 sorties, racking up 273 official victories and 37 probable ones, with some 46 of its roughly 100 pilots killed or declared missing, and was decorated with the Soviet orders of the Red Flag and Alexander Nevsky.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240202/ww2s-turning-point-marking-81-years-since-stalingrads-liberation---1116549524.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/us-war-correspondent-and-sputnik-contributor-russell-bentley-missing-in-donetsk-1117883587.html

Journalist and Sputnik Contributor Russell Bentley Missing in Donetsk

Journalist and Sputnik Contributor Russell Bentley Missing in Donetsk

Sputnik International

US war correspondent and Sputnik regular contributor Russell Bentley, working in the Donbass, has gone missing in Donetsk, the DPR Ministry of Internal Affairs reported on Friday.

2024-04-12T08:45+0000

2024-04-12T08:45+0000

2024-04-12T10:37+0000

russia

donbass

donetsk

dpr

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The Ministry of Internal Affairs of the republic has issued Bentley's missing alert. Sputnik's editorial office is collaborating with law enforcement agencies in his search.Bentley looks about 60-65 years old, is 180-185 cm tall, of thick build, with gray eyes, and short gray hair. He was seen wearing a black T-shirt, moss camouflage pants, camouflage boots, and had a green bag with him, the ministry added.Texas-born American Russell Bonner Bentley, call sign "Texas", has been working in Russias special military operation zone as a war correspondent. Bentley, 64, joined the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) militia in 2014 and has been defending the region's freedom against Ukrainian neo-Nazi forces since then, first as a soldier, then as a war correspondent. Between 2014 and 2017 Bentley served in the Sut Vremeni (lit. "Essence of Time") combat unit, Vostok Battalion and XAH Spetsnaz Battalion. Side by side with Donbass volunteers he fought in such hot spots as Donetsk Airport, Spartak, Avdeyevka, and Yasinovataya. The war correspondent was baptized as an Orthodox Christian during the hostilities, and has raised funds and delivered humanitarian aid to Donbass civilians. Bentley previously told Sputnik that he was compelled to come to the Donbass because he admired the people's courage, steadfastness, and unwillingness to accept the US-backed illegitimate coup d'etat in Ukraine. Bentley considered the Russian special military operation as the beginning of the end of the Kiev regime's eight-year long war against Donbass, which he had firsthand knowledge of. The veteran repeatedly came under Ukrainian fire and emerged unscathed.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231204/sputnik-correspondent-russell-bentley-awarded-film-prize-1115369874.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20220401/nazism-is-disease-texan-came-to-donbass-to-protect-people--tell-the-truth-about-8-year-long-war-1094369347.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/war-new-fiscal-policy-rules-and-austerity-to-turn-eu-into-us-1117880276.html

War, New Fiscal Policy Rules and Austerity to Turn EU Into US

War, New Fiscal Policy Rules and Austerity to Turn EU Into US

Sputnik International

Austerity, strict fiscal policy rules and a preference for guns over butter will turn the EU into something that looks a lot more like the US.

2024-04-12T03:48+0000

2024-04-12T03:48+0000

2024-04-12T03:48+0000

analysis

linwood tauheed

italy

france

ukraine

european union (eu)

nato

naked capitalism

austerity measures

austerity

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Earlier this week, Finnish Finance Minister Riikka Purra told a local newspaper that cuts will need to be made to pensions in the country as it attempts to cut an additional 3 billion from its budget. It was the latest in a string of European countries telling its citizens to prepare for belt-tightening even as the EU approved 50 billion in aid for Ukraine.The austerity measures by the Finnish government come as it is increasing its military budget to be in line with NATOs requirement that member nations spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense.It also comes as New Fiscal Rules in Europe are set to constrain how EU member states can handle their debt, a move almost assured to lead to more austerity, as some of the countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratios, including France, Italy and Poland, work to restock their military supplies after sending them to Ukraine.High-debt countries like Italy, France, Spain, Netherlands, Poland, and Belgium face the biggest consolidation demands, explained chief economist and head of the Economics Department of the Austrian Trade Unions Confederation Helene Schuberth, in an interview with independent media outlet Naked Capitalism. For instance, Italy has to reduce its fiscal deficit by 1% of GDP per year. France has to consolidate nearly as much.Europe, in contrast to the US, has had a relatively robust social safety net. Universal healthcare and education is the standard across the continent. Pensions and unions are common as are housing subsidies for the poor.Compounding matters is what has been called an energy crisis in Europe. Western sanctions on Russia, have forced the EU to turn to the US for its supplies, in addition to buying Russian gas through a third party.Russia has for decades been a very well-received and inexpensive trading partner with Europe. Now, Europe is prevented from engaging in that trade, Dr. Linwood Tauheed, an associate professor of economics at the University of Missouri told Sputniks The Critical Hour on Thursday.All of this, of course, works to the benefit of the United States. Not only has Europe been forced to buy expensive gas, but the rising cost of energy has caused de-industrialization across the continent, particularly in Germany, which was previously a global economic and industrial powerhouse. Much of that industrialization has moved across the pond to the US, where energy and labor remain relatively cheap.Additionally, the new military purchases are almost certainly going to benefit US weapon manufacturers.In the last quarter of 2023, Europes economy saw no growth while the US grew only 2.5% throughout the year, a figure Tauheed argues is partially the result of Europes deindustrialization. So we have one entity  the US  that is basically sucking the blood out of the other entity, which is the EU, Tauheed explained.However, Europes austerity measures are unlikely to help those countries balance their budget. The decreased social spending by the government decreases consumer spending and ultimately those countries GDP. That will, in turn, lead to more austerity.After the financial crisis in 2008, Europe responded with austerity measures while the US implemented a financial bailout. The countries with the strictest austerity measures showed the slowest signs of recovery. In addition, they also saw an increase in suicides and a decrease in healthcare effectiveness. They also failed to address their debts and Italys banks saw cuts in their Moody credit rating as a result.The ultimate goal of this process is to dismantle welfare programs, to dismantle free health care, free education, housing subsidies and so forth in the EU, Tauheed said.This is going as planned, to have the EU eliminate those [programs] so that it can be said that there are no better alternatives than for-profit healthcare and expensive education since the EU couldnt sustain [it], Tauheed speculated.And with that, the EU will move closer to the US, not only economically and politically, but in appearance. Europes leaders are once again faced with the question that has haunted world leaders since the dawn of civilization in one form or another: guns or butter?After generations of the highest standards of living in the world, Europe is increasingly moving towards guns, while its citizens struggle to buy butter.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231011/eu-economy-stagnating-as-bloc-tries-to-abandon-russian-energy---putin-1114095156.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240124/strike-movement-spreads-across-europe-amid-austerity-and-economic-slump-1116367031.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/wh-expects-scale-of-irans-strike-against-israel-wont-draw-us-into-conflict---report-1117881111.html

White House Expects Scale of Imminent Iranian Strike on Israel Won't Draw US Into Conflict - Report

White House Expects Scale of Imminent Iranian Strike on Israel Won't Draw US Into Conflict - Report

Sputnik International

The US expects a retaliatory attack by Iran against Israel will not be of a magnitude that would draw Washington directly into the conflict, Reuters reported, citing sources.

2024-04-12T05:36+0000

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2024-04-12T06:39+0000

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The US expects a retaliatory attack by Iran against Israel will not be of a magnitude that would draw Washington directly into the conflict, Reuters reported, citing sources.Although such a strike by the Islamic Republic is anticipated, Tehran has reportedly indicated to the White House that it seeks to avoid a major escalation.Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian is believed to have conveyed the corresponding message during his visit to Oman on Sunday. Tehran will also be pressing ahead with demands for a Gaza truce, as per Iranian sources.Another source said Iran had been very clear that its response to the Israeli strike on its embassy in Syrias capital would be non-escalatory and controlled.Washington has also sought to assure Tehran that it was not involved in the strike, according to a cited White House spokesperson.In the wake of the Israeli airstrike, speculation has mounted regarding the scale of an anticipated response from Tehran. Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said the aggression "violated all diplomatic norms and international treaties."Iran has the right to take action in response to the Israeli attack on the Iranian Consulate in Damascus, the Iranian mission to the UN said. It added that Tehran would no longer have had an imperative to punish Israel over the attack if the UN Security Council had condemned it."Had the UN Security Council condemned the Zionist regimes reprehensible act of aggression on our diplomatic premises in Damascus and subsequently brought to justice its perpetrators, the imperative for Iran to punish this rogue regime might have been obviated," the Iranian Mission said via the social media platform X.Russia is in constant contact with Iran in light of Tehran's possible response to the Israeli strike against the Iranian Consulate in Damascus, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said on Thursday.Russia condemns Israel's attack on the Iranian Consulate and believes that condoning Israeli actions in the Middle East, which are the core of Washington's policy, is largely becoming the root cause of more and more tragedies, the diplomat added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/israel-expects-irans-direct-attack-within-next-24-to-48-hours---reports-1117879966.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240411/punishing-israel-for-consulate-attack-avoidable-had-unsc-condemned-it---iran-mission-to-un-1117873043.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240412/what-sahel-russian-troops-replace-french-in-niger-1117896062.html

What Sahel? Russian Troops Replace French in Niger

What Sahel? Russian Troops Replace French in Niger

Sputnik International

Russian military specialists have arrived in Niger to provide combat training and deploy an air defense system in the country, Nigerien state broadcaster RTN reported.

2024-04-12T18:15+0000

2024-04-12T18:15+0000

2024-04-15T08:20+0000

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africa in details

africa insight

russia

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joe biden

pentagon

us

europe

oil

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The arrival of Russian military instructors was preceded by a phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Abdourahmane Tchiani, the chairman of Nigers National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, on March 26.The two leaders discussed the situation in the Sahel region, emphasising security matters and counter-terrorism activities. The leaders agreed to intensify bilateral political dialogue and step up cooperation in a variety of areas.It is unsurprising that Russia agreed to lend a helping hand to Niamey against the backdrop of Moscow's increasing influence in Sahel, according to Akinyoade.Upon arrival at the Niamey airport, one Russian specialist told Sputnik that the contingent will provide training to the Niger Armed Forces and share counter-terror expertise with their Nigerien peers.Nigerien state broadcaster RTN also reported on the possible deployment of a Russian air defense system in the country, which the local military personnel will be taught to operate. "The Russian instructors will provide high-quality training for our military personnel to effectively use this system," stated RTN.French and American Military Not Welcome AnymoreIn the aftermath of the military takeover on July 26, 2023, which was supported by the majority of the Nigerien population, the Tchiani government demanded that the French military pull out from the region.France colonzed Niger for over 60 years until 1960, and maintained its presence in the African country long after. Paris' counter-terrorrism Operation Barkhane in the Sahel from 2014 to 2022 saw a considerable French military build in the region.In 2022 the French military was forced to leave Mali, whose government was angry that Operation Barkhane failed to reach its objectives. Citizens of Burkina Faso and Niger also expressed their opposition to the presence of French troops.After pulling out of those countries, France relocated part of its personnel to Niger  whose former President Mohamed Bazoum was considered a loyal ally of Paris.Despite French President Emmanuel Macron initially resisting Niamey's demands, French soldiers finally left Niger Republic in December 2023. The French ambassador and diplomatic mission were expelled from Niger in September 2023 following a stand-off which saw authorities cut off the embassy's water supply.On March 16, the Tchiani government announced the end of the status of forces agreement between Niger and the United States. The US maintains a drone air base outside Agadez in northern Niger that was built in the late 2010s.The Pentagon also has three similar drone bases in Cote dIvoire, Ghana, and Benin. The Biden administration announced in March that it held consultations with Niamey considering the fate of its base.Sahel Picking RussiaAccording to the Russian expert, Niger's message to Paris and Washington was clear: "Either we will cooperate on some kind of understandable, mutually beneficial basis, or you are simply not welcome here anymore."Eledinov, a retired Russian military officer who participated in several peacekeeping operations, explained that while France, the US and Russia have interests in the Sahel region, it is African countries who have the final word.Some Sahel countries have chosen Russia as an ally because it can provide assistance in a variety of fields, apart from security and military-technical cooperation.Food, Oil and UraniumBetween February 2022 and March 2023, Russia supplied roughly 12 million tons of grain to African countries  despite Western sanctions  as Russian President Vladimir Putin announced at the plenary session Russia-Africa in a Multipolar World on March 20, 2023.Speaking to Sputnik in December 2023, Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine said that the country was interested in boosting ties with Russia in terms of trade and agriculture. Representative of the Pan-African Party of Niger Oumarou Abdurahamane noted in his August 2023 interview with Sputnik that Niger considers Russia a reliable partner for the launch of joint projects to develop uranium and oil fields in the country.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240411/russian-specialists-arrive-in-niger-to-train-local-forces-on-combating-terrorism-1117879317.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/mali-burkina-faso-niger-sign-charter-to-create-defense-alliance-1113425182.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240319/blinken-on-reports-niger-ends-military-deal-with-us-washington-in-touch-with-niger-1117420971.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230403/algeria-says-no-to-foreign-intervention-in-sahel-sahara-regions-war-on-terror-1109065446.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230304/africa-is-becoming-new-market-for-russian-oil-products-amid-eu-embargo-report-says-1108021214.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231203/whats-behind-russias-drive-to-provide-africa-with-grain-1115358187.html

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Instagram Model changed physically during her winter layoff, but the ways Iggy remained the same might be most pleasing to trainer Annie Stoebe as she prepares the four-year-old female trotter for the start of a new campaign on Saturday, April 13 at The Meadowlands.

The 2023 New York Sire Stakes champion and 2022 Jim Doherty Memorial winner will make her seasonal debut in an $18,000 USD conditioned trot as she gets ready for the first round of the Miss Versatility Series on May 4 at the Big M. Instagram Model has won eight career races, all in open or state-restricted stakes, and earned $545,986.

She came back awesome, said Stoebe. When I brought her back, she had put on more weight and muscle and got bigger, but I dont think she lost an ounce of fitness while she was off. Ive always said that her work ethic is like nothing else, and thats just as true now training back down. Im looking forward to a fun summer with her.

Instagram Model is eligible to a number of stakes this year, with the focus on races restricted to mares. She will skip the Graduate Series and Hambletonian Maturity, which are specifically for four-year-olds but would require taking on male foes.

We decided to focus on most of the mare races just to give her the best shot, said Stoebe, who trains Instagram Model for owner Lynn Curry. I understand the Graduate and Maturity go for a lot more money, but I dont want to do that to her. Shes been so good to us; we want to be equally as good to her.

The Miss Versatility Series features six preliminary rounds followed by a final on Sept. 19 at the Delaware County Fairgrounds in Ohio. Five of the prelims are at The Meadowlands with one, on June 1, at Woodbine Mohawk Park. The Mohawk race is one week prior to the Ontario oval hosting eliminations for the Armbro Flight Stakes for trotting mares.

Among the 21 mares eligible to the Miss Versatility in addition to Instagram Model are Dan Patch Award winners Bond and Special Way, two-time OBrien Award recipient Adare Castle, and millionaires M Ms Dream and Refined.

Instagram Model will take her first step toward the series by facing nine male rivals on Saturday at The Meadowlands. She will start from post nine with driver David Miller and is the 3-1 second choice on the morning line. Oh Look Magic, who leaves from post eight with Yannick Gingras driving for trainer Ron Burke, is the 5-2 favourite in the 10-horse field.

It will be Millers first start with Instagram Model aside from her second-place finish behind Mambacita in a qualifier last week at The Meadowlands. The daughter of Chapter Seven-Check Out Trixie was timed in 1:54.3 with a :27.4 final quarter.

David got to train her once and qualify her; hell get a good feel for her on Saturday, said Stoebe. She did everything we could have asked [in her qualifier]. She finished strong and came out of it great. I wish I had a little better post on Saturday, but it is what it is.

In addition to Instagram Model, Stoebe is getting three-year-old female trotter Chapalonia ready for her upcoming season. Last year, the daughter of Chapter Seven-Avalonia won the consolation division of the Kentuckiana Stallion Management Stakes and was a Breeders Crown finalist. She will qualify on Saturday morning at The Meadowlands.

Its very exciting, said Stoebe. I havent raced since November, so finally getting back to racing feels so good.

Racing begins at 6:20 p.m. (EDT) at The Meadowlands.

(USTA)
Fly over the Sandhills in a plane to check cattle and peer below. If you are along for the ride ask the pilot/rancher to gain a bit of altitude and tack on several miles before landing in the pasture by his shop. The dunes, stabilized by grass and other vegetation, resemble green waves on the ocean at just the right phase of spring. Taking the comparison further, windmills look like buoys in the semi-arid sea.

James Girard, of Alliance-based Girard Well Service, usually maintains a more typical vantage point while installing and maintaining windmills in the area. Though many landowners have added or converted stock wells to solar power he expects the workhorses of the west to remain.

A lot of guys will triage, he explained. They may take a windmill out and use parts. May like to have both (wind and solar) in one pasture. With basic maintenance, windmills will last a long time . . . simple effective design.

Despite being a dependable, green machine windmills have taken a hit in rural America before. According to Windmills on the American Plains, an article posted on the Homestead National Historical Park site of the National Park Service, the 1935 Rural Electrification Act allowed more farms to have electricity, using the power source to pump water. By the 1960s, most windmills were sold to developing nations around the world or to three specific cattle ranching regions of the Plains . . . the sandhills of western Nebraska, the panhandle of Oklahoma and Texas, and southwestern Texas, the article says.

Anyone who works on windmills may deal with equipment and parts around a century old at times. Pointing out an Aermotor-made gearbox in his inventory, James said that particular design was made prior to 1933  the last time the company changed its basic design. Some parts have been on 60 years or better, he commented. Were lucky enough our inventory of used windmill parts is probably the biggest in the Panhandle. . . . Theyre like the Chevy engine of the world. . . . Because theres no foundries theyve become very recycled. You can take four or five that are busted up and make two or three windmill heads.

Though windmills are durable, working on all the stuff down the hole is pricey. Minimum maintenance is usually around $1,000. If you spread the cost of solar over five years versus pulling a windmill twice over that time its hard not to go with solar.

Id say its plateaued as far as changing/converting, James said. All the new wells are almost all solar for livestock. (We) dont move windmills (much) anymore. We did have government funding to change from windmills to solar. All the government equipment programs are solar  all the cost-share is solar and pipeline (share with one well to other tanks). Some places (such as Lusk, Wyo., or Whitney, Neb.) its more efficient to run pipeline instead of more wells.

Manpower has become a greater factor when considering ranch infrastructure. James pointed out that more cattle in one area served by a solar well means moving those animals less often. Now you have a fraction of the employees to do everything.

Just as Aermotor became a lasting and preferred brand, James said the solar market is dominated by two major brands and a knock-off of one. New owners of a system benefit from a 5-year warranty though I have (had) some in for 12-15 years and havent touched panels or pumps. Had a 6-panel system that wasnt scratched in the big hail storm a few years ago, he said. The panels, all from China after an Oklahoma company went out of business, are rated at 60 miles per hour/1.5-inch hail.

Technology continues to advance with solar pumping systems. James described one 110 volt AC/DC design where you can plug a generator in. A new model is expected to pump from depths up to 400 feet and the same pumping power is possible with fewer panels in an array.

Technology or tradition, the cattle on a thousand hills drink their fill.
 Flash

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday vowed an "appropriate response" if Iran attacks his country's territory.

"A direct Iranian attack on Israeli territory will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin during a phone conversation on preparations for a possible Iranian retaliatory attack.

During the conversation, Gallant detailed the Israeli preparations and emphasized that Israel "will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory."

It was the second time the two officials had talked over the past week. U.S. intelligence officials have assessed that Iran could launch a counter-attack soon in response to the killing of seven Iranians in an Israeli airstrike on Iran's consulate in Syria on April 1.

Earlier on Thursday, Commander of the United States Central Command Michael Kurilla arrived in Israel for talks with Gallant and Herzi Halevi, the chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, to coordinate responses to a potential Iranian attack.
Dbrand deletes racist tweet on Indian customer after MKBHD intervenes [Update]



Dbrand has finally realised that its tweet went too far and decided to buried the hatchet with Bhuwan by deleting the offensive tweet.



Dbrand replied to MKBHD on X, Fair enough. We left the offending tweet up because we didn't want to seem like we were sweeping this situation under the rug. We recognize that our original tweet went too far and created a platform for hateful discourse. Given that we've already buried the hatchet with Bhuwan, we're good to delete the tweet and be more mindful going forward.



Dbrand makes racist comment on India- What happened?



Tech Youtuber MKBHD has warned Canadian accessories firm Dbrand that he will not be working with them unless a particular tweet is deleted. Dbrand, which is famous for working with popular content creators like JerryRigEverything, has landed itself in hot waters after its allegedly racist reply to an Indian techie on Elon Musk's X. While the company's social media account is famous for witty replies to customer support requests, its latest tone has sparked outrage, and it even prompted a stern post from popular YouTuber Marques Brownlee, ubiquitously known as MKBHD.

Also Read: boAt better than Apple advertisement - Here's what social media thinks

Also read Looking for a smartphone? To check mobile finder click here.

Dbrand controversy- What MKBHD said

On Wednesday, Bhuwan Chitransh, an Indian man working in the Netherlands, put up a complaint on X about his MacBook skin changing its colour within months of purchase from Dbrand. @dbrand bought this skin a couple months back. Couldn't even remain the same color after just 2 months. What should I do?, he wrote.

Instead of offering a solution for Chitransh's issue, the official Dbrand account replied, Your last name is basically s**t rash, be serious. While this may have seemed a witty reply at the time, it quickly attracted backlash with the post attracting over 8 million views. X users expressed their dismay, calling for an apology from the company.

The issue seems to have caught the attention of popular YouTuber MKBHD, who has taken a stand against the Canadian brand. In an X post, MKBHD wrote, @dbrand Won't be working with dbrand until that original tweet is deleted, at least. You're allowed to make s****y jokes, but the internet has made it pretty clear what it think about this one, and the harm from it is unnecessary.

I've been around long enough to see a LOT of versions of this in my years. Apologies on the internet tend to come in pairs. The first apology is usually rushed, and later regretted. The second, after some time, is usually more measured and reflective. I'm definitely not asking for a second apology, but I'm definitely asking for the reflective part.

Also Read: X gives free blue check to big follower accounts

Dbrand's response

In the initial hours, Dbrand remained unapologetic, claiming that its feed was filled with such replies that could give someone a pearl-clutching heart attack. However, it has now backtracked and claimed to have offered the Indian techie an apology, along with $10,000 "as a gesture of goodwill.

In a statement, Dbrand said, Well that escalated quickly. Yes - we made fun of a guy's name. It was a huge fumble. We apologized to him directly and offered him $10,000 as a gesture of goodwill."

One more thing! We are now on WhatsApp Channels! Follow us there so you never miss any updates from the world of technology. To follow the HT Tech channel on WhatsApp, click here to join now!
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:

Apple said the predictive emoji suggestion in the iPhone keyboard was not intentional.

Apple on Thursday promised it would stop a Palestinian flag emoji from being suggested to some iPhone users when they type "Jerusalem" in messages.

The Silicon Valley tech titan blamed a software bug for the prompt, which sparked accusations Apple was showing anti-Israel bias amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Apple told AFP that the predictive emoji suggestion in the iPhone keyboard was not intentional and would be fixed in the next update to its mobile operating system.

The quirk was pointed out on social media by British television presenter Rachel Riley, renewing debate over whether Israel or Palestinians have rightful claim to Jerusalem as their capital.

"When I type the capital of Israel, Jerusalem, I'm offered the Palestinian flag emoji," Riley wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter, calling on Apple to explain.

She pointed out no flag emojis were suggested when an array of other capital cities were typed into iPhone messages.

"Showing double standards with respect to Israel is a form of antisemitism, which is itself a form of racism against Jewish people," Riley contended in the post.

She said the Palestinian flag emoji began popping up in connection with Jerusalem after a recent update of the iPhone operating system.

Riley signed her post "a Jewish woman concerned about the global rise in antisemitism."

 2024 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:

Mortar cubes rest in the product lab at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

It's a major contributor to climate changethe way buildings and roads are made with concrete. It's also a problem that's growing as more of the world develops. So the race has been on to find solutions for a material that's responsible for roughly 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions.

Now one California startup has developed a technology that reduces carbon dioxide in the making of cement and could have the potential to operate at large scale. Fortera intercepts carbon dioxide exhaust from the kilns where cement is made and routes it back in to make additional cement. In its first effort at commercial scale, the technology is being added to a CalPortland facility in Redding, California, one of the largest cement plants in the western U.S. It opens Friday.

"Our target is about being a ubiquitous solution that can work really at any plant," said Ryan Gilliam, Fortera CEO.

Initially Fortera will produce enough to mix with about one-fifth of CalPortland's product in a blend that reduces carbon by about 10%. Gilliam said there is a strong demand for higher blends that reduce carbon by 40-50%, and for a pure product the company makes, which has 70% lower carbon.

The first large sacks are scheduled to move out the door of the Redding plant the first week of May.

Fortera evolved in part out of an earlier company called Calera that was among the first to convert carbon dioxide into cement starting in 2007. It poured some 100 tons of its low-carbon cement into California office buildings and sidewalks but shuttered in 2014 due to financial challenges. Building on that knowledge, Gilliam founded Fortera in 2019 with several former Calera employees.

A mortar cube is tested for compressive strength in the product lab at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

There is "pretty much a cement plant every 250 miles in the world," he said, and most are located near a limestone quarry. Because it works with these existing plants and uses the same material the industry already uses, Fortera says its technology is an economically competitive option to quickly prevent carbon emissions from warming the planet.

One difference from some other low-carbon cement and concrete efforts is it offers at least the possibility of being installed widely at cement plants instead of changing how the industry currently runs.

Fortera's is one of many efforts to reduce the climate impact of concrete. The American Institute of Architects educates many of the world's largest architecture firms about carbon emissions from building materials.

Some jurisdictions including Vancouver, British Columbia have building standards that encourage lower-carbon concrete. California passed a law in 2021 that requires the state's Air Resources Board to develop a strategy for the state's cement industry to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2035 and achieve net zero by 2045.

Materials rest in an area used for the ReCarb process at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

The First Movers Coalition, an organization of more than 90 companies, has an initiative announced in 2021 to create greater demand for low-carbon cement through their immense buying power.

The same year, 40 of the largest cement and concrete manufacturers announced a commitment to making concrete that does not contribute to climate change by 2050 through the Global Cement and Concrete Association. They agreed to reduce emissions from cement, fossil fuel use in manufacturing processes and to develop new ways to capture carbon.

Concrete is the second -most used product on Earth, aside from water. Cement makes up 10-15% of concrete by volume, but accounts for 88% of concrete's considerable emissions. Other ingredients in concrete are sand, gravel, crushed stone and water.

Manufacturing one ton of cement emits nearly one ton of carbon dioxide. There hasn't been a simple replacement.

"The societal benefits of concrete are absolutely immense  it's the backbone of modern society," said Thomas Guillot, CEO of the Global Cement and Concrete Association. Other materials sometimes fail to compete because they are not as durable, can't support as much weight, or can't stand up as well to heat, he said.

A concrete cylinder is removed after being tested for compressive strength at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

HOW FORTERA'S TECHNOLOGY WORKS

Cement manufacturers heat kilns to about 2,500F (1,400C) to break down limestone and separate it into carbon dioxide and calcium oxide.

Fortera's process sucks the carbon dioxide out and pipes it into a machine where it is turned into a solid. Its technology works at around 1,800F (1,000C), which requires less energy and emits less carbon.

When the captured carbon dioxide is mixed with calcium oxide, it turns into a kind of limestone that becomes cement-like when wet. This product, which Fortera calls ReAct, is blended with other ingredients to make concrete.

Fortera uses a 15% blend of ReAct in concrete because that is all that is allowed under existing industry standards that regulate material strength and durability.

The company is trying to get a product that is 100% ReAct approved as a replacement for cement and says its testing has shown it can meet international requirements, but the regulatory process will take over five years.

Sarah Plata, center, and Adriana Gutierrez, background right, work at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

A worker measures ReAct product at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

Jesus Gonzalez Pequeno works in the product lab at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

ReAct Pure, center, rests in a jar in the process lab at Fortera's facility in San Jose, Calif., Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide and is responsible for about 8% of global emissions each year. Fortera, a clean tech company whose technology captures carbon emissions from kilns and feeds it back in to the process, is opening its first commercial scale operation on Thursday, April 12, 2024, in California. Credit: AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy

Some of the fastest-growing consumers of cement are in Southeast Asia and Africa, so global solutions are critical.

"The United States has to do what it can and be a leader to help other countries," said Mike Ireland, president and CEO of the Portland Cement Association, the national trade association for U.S. cement manufacturers. "But we have to get the rest of the world, particularly the Global South, as they industrialize to leapfrog some of the technologies we had."

Carbon emissions from cement manufacturing is "an existential threat to the world and for our industry," he said.

 2024 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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Just 10 days before the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games, Japan opened its Tokaido Shinkansen, a high-speed rail line connecting Tokyo with Osaka. Shinkansen bullet trains showcased the high quality of Japanese railway technology to the world, with trains traveling at up to 285 km/h (177 mph).

More than 10 trains depart from Tokyo each hour, and the average delay remains at just 54 seconds per trainmuch lower than in other countries such as the UK. So far, Japan's bullet trains have also recorded zero passenger fatalities in their 60 years of operation.

The reliability, punctuality and safety of Japanese railways has reinforced the country's identity as a self-professed railway technology superpower.

However, Japan's Shinkansen is a self-contained railway system designed to be isolated from the conventional railway network. For example, the system is a dedicated high-speed line with a wider track than the rest of the network. This means that the bullet train's good reputation, which has been nurtured over decades, is predicated on it being a standalone project.

The irony here is that while Japanese suppliers have developed high technical know-how, their skills are being wasted as they struggle to adapt to the international railway marketplace.

In late 2023, Japan expressed its reluctance to join Indonesia's US$7.3 billion (5.9 billion) high-speed rail project, citing concerns about technical compatibility and possible damage to its "brand." As a result, Indonesia picked China to build the railway instead. China also offered to do it faster and with fewer conditions.

My own research suggests that domestic pride and confidence will turn into anxiety as Japanese railway expertise continues to encounter overseas rivals, and fails to win contracts.

The Taiwanese experience

Japan has successfully exported its "high quality" rail infrastructure to Taiwan, India, Europe and the UK in the past. But Japan's experience of exporting bullet train technology to Taiwan in the late 1990s and early 2000s remains a cautionary tale.

The Taiwanese high-speed railway, a 350km line that runs along the west coast of the country, resulted in a mix of European and Japanese technologies after much political haggling. The Japanese engineers were worried that their bullet trains had to run on European tracks, an engineering requirement not anticipated by the Shinkansen technology.

They feared that the bullet train's international reputation would suffer if anything went wrong in the process of mixing Japanese and European designs.

Thankfully, nothing has gone wrong. But this episode shows how Japanese engineers are obsessed with making sure the bullet train technology is sold as a complete package.

This is an example of the "Galapagos Syndrome", a metaphor used to describe products and services that have developed with a focus on a single market or culture, making them distinct when compared to the rest of the world. The reputation of the bullet train rests on not mixing with non-Japanese technology.

The experience in Taiwan also highlighted another dimension of Japanese railway expertise: that Japanese manufacturers lack the necessary expertise to compete in the international railway marketplace where the mixing of technology from various countries is the norm.

Future risks

The Japanese government has recently announced that it would back a bid from Japanese companies to export underground railway expertise and technology to the Dominican Republic. The Caribbean country is planning to expand its underground railway system mainly in its capital, Santo Domingo.

Japan's involvement makes sense given its experience operating rapid mass transit systems. This sort of system already operates in major Japanese cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, Kobe and Fukuoka. However, there is a risk that the Japanese system remains incompatible with what is available from the international marketplace.

Unless the Japanese system is compatible internationally, then the operator will remain stuck with Japanese technology when the time comes for renewal. Otherwise, they will need to find a non-Japanese supplier willing and able to shoehorn their technology into the Japanese system.

This predicament is reminiscent of Taiwan's recent struggle to renew its high-speed trains. The original trains that Japan sold to Taiwan are now due for refurbishment. And the Taiwanese operator has had to choose between purchasing brand new trains either from different Japanese manufacturers or from European suppliers.

Purchasing new trains from Japan meant incurring additional costs, while procuring European rolling stock would result in the greater complexity of having a mixed fleet. In the end, the Taiwanese operator opted to purchase new trainsets from Japanese firms Hitachi and Toshiba.

Japan's self-image is built on the notion that the Japanese technology is the best in the world. But Japan's government and railway industry still have a lot to learn from the international marketplace. For now, Japanese confidence will have to cohabit with anxiety.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Microsoft plans to offer AI training to three million people in Japan.

Massive overseas and domestic investments offer Japan a chance to reclaim its tech crown, but to become a convincing alternative to China the country must embrace rapid innovation, experts say.

US tech giants are pumping billions of dollars into artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and chip production in Japan, which dominated the hardware industry in the 1980s.

Google launched a regional cyber defense hub in the country last month, and Amazon Web Services is spending $14 billion to expand Japanese cloud infrastructure.

And in the latest move, this week saw Microsoft, a partner of ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, pledge $2.9 billion to boost the nation's AI prowess.

"Geopolitical tensions have made Japan a more attractive and stable partner compared to China," said Khos-Erdene Baatarkhuu, CEO of fintech company AND Global.

"Japan's tech sector, once a leader, lost ground due to a slower response to digital and mobile trends" compared with neighbors such as South Korea, he told AFP.

But "now, with supportive government policies, resilient start-ups, and a potentially shifting global tech scene, Japan has an opportunity to regain its tech edge".

It's not there yet, however. Japan was ranked a lowly 32nd in the latest global classification of digital competitiveness by Swiss management school IMD.

And only seven Japanese firms appear among more than 1,200 tech "unicorns"start-ups worth more than $1 billionlisted by CB Insights.

A "perfection-seeking approach" and preference for "stability and gradual improvement" among businesses is partly to blame, Khos-Erdene said.

"The traditional corporate culture in Japan tends to be risk-averse and hierarchical, which can stifle the rapid innovation typically seen in the software industry."

Global tech giants are pumping billions into Japan's AI industry.

Microchip 'revival'

Masayoshi Son, CEO of Japanese tech investment vehicle SoftBank Group, has warned the country could be left a gawping "goldfish" if it ignores AI.

"Wake up Japan!" he said at a corporate event in October. "I want to be on the side of evolution."

Son and tech titans including Apple boss Tim Cook and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos joined Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and US President Joe Biden at a Washington dinner on Wednesday.

At a summit that day, Kishida and Biden had vowed to strengthen "our shared role as global leaders in the development and protection of next-generation critical and emerging technologies".

They also agreed to work with "like-minded countries to strengthen global semiconductor supply chains" in a joint statement.

Semiconductors, which power everything from mobile phones to cars, have become a key battleground in recent years.

The United States and some European countries have blocked exports of high-tech chip technology to China over fears of military use.

Meanwhile, Taiwanese chip behemoth TSMC is facing pressure to diversify its production from customers and governments worried about the possibility of China invading Taiwan.

TSMC opened a new $8.6 billion chip factory in southern Japan in February, and is planning a second, $20-billion facility for more advanced chips.

On a visit to the TSMC plant this month, Kishida said he "felt first-hand the revival of our country's semiconductor industry".

Biden and Kishida said the US and Japan were 'global leaders' in next-generation technology.

Japan has spent 3.9 trillion yen ($25 billion) in the past three years on chip-related subsidiesa larger portion of gross domestic product than the United States or Germany.

Japanese firms including Sony and Toyota are also collaborating with US giant IBM on a semiconductor project called Rapidus, aiming to mass-produce two-nanometer logic chips in Japan from 2027.

'Crossroads'

"This is a great time to invest in Japan" with the yen's value at a 34-year low, said Hideaki Yokota, vice president of the specialist IT think-tank MM Research Institute.

Tech firms hope the country can become their "best partner in Asia" while its workforce boasts many highly educated engineers ready to be snapped up, he told AFP.

Established Japanese businesses, especially in the auto and household appliance sectors, provide real-world opportunities to make AI profitable, he said.

But Khos-Erdene warned that Japan should not rely on its legacy as a manufacturer, given its low labor productivity and shrinking workforce.

"As CEO of a tech company, I see Japan at a crossroads," he said, with the question not if but how quickly the country can become a "producer, not just a consumer, of these transformative technologies".

Microsoft plans to offer AI training to three million of Japan's population of 125 million.

Japanese and American universities are also teaming up on new technology research programs funded by global companies such as Nvidia and Arm.

"Overall, Japan's commitment to AI holds tremendous potential for economic revitalisation," Khos-Erdene said.

"By fostering collaboration, retaining top talent, and learning from successful models like the US and China, Japan can bridge the AI gap and re-establish itself as a major force in the global tech landscape."

 2024 AFP
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People gather on the rubble of a destroyed building after an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on April 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

At least nine Palestinians were killed in an Israeli airstrike on the southernmost Gaza city of Rafah, eyewitnesses and medical sources said Thursday.

An Israeli drone targeted a gathering of Palestinians near a cemetery east of Rafah with a missile, killing six people, local sources told Xinhua, adding the bodies were transferred to Abu Yousef al-Najjar Hospital in the city, with some of them being dismembered.

In addition, three Palestinians were killed, and several others were injured in an Israeli raid in the al-Jneina neighborhood east of Rafah, according to the sources. The casualties were transferred to the same hospital, the sources said.

Meanwhile, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich told Israeli media that the Israeli army continues to target the infrastructure of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas).

The army is preparing to expand its operations to include Rafah, Deir al-Balah, and other cities in the central Gaza Strip, he said, noting the operations will be similar to Wednesday's raid in Nuseirat, with the aim of eliminating "terrorism" and disarming Gaza Strip.

Israeli forces have conducted intensive bombardments in the vicinity of the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza since Wednesday night, resulting in casualties.

This came as the Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of the Islamic Jihad Movement, announced that its members shot down an Israeli "quadcopter" aircraft and seized it while it was carrying out reconnaissance missions in the central Gaza Strip airspace.

Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee confirmed in a statement on the X platform that the 162nd Brigade had launched a surprise military campaign in the central Gaza Strip since Wednesday night.

Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 200 were taken hostage.

The war has killed at least 33,482 Palestinians and wounded 76,049 others since its outbreak, the Palestinian Health Ministry said on Wednesday.
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Geng Shuang (C, front), China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a Security Council meeting on the situation in Ukraine, at the UN headquarters in New York, on April 11, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

A Chinese envoy said Thursday that political settlement is the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis.

Fighting in Ukraine is still ongoing. The humanitarian situation is growing dire. The risks of spillover continue to emerge. China finds the conflict getting complicated and protracted a cause for concern, said Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations.

Continued fighting will only aggravate the suffering of innocent civilians in Ukraine and bring more unpredictable risks and challenges to the region and the world, he warned.

"There are no winners in conflicts or wars. Political settlement represents the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis," he told the Security Council. "China once again calls on the parties concerned to engage in direct dialogue and negotiation, take the first step toward political settlement, jointly promote the de-escalation of the situation, and achieve a cease-fire as soon as possible. The international community should intensify its efforts and actively create conditions for this."

On the Ukraine issue, China has always followed an objective and impartial position and has always advocated talks for peace, said Geng.

China has always maintained that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be observed, the legitimate security concerns of all countries should be taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis should be supported. China will continue to maintain communication with all parties and play a constructive role in promoting a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, he said.
The open slaying by gunfire of five males, including a 13-year-old, in Kingstown on Wednesday 19th July, 2023, remains etched in the minds of a majority of Vincentians, especially those at home.





And as if that was not enough to have to swallow as one pill, the ugly face of horrific deaths has risen again to haunt the Vincentian population.





Police here confirmed that on Monday 8th April, 2024, at approximately 12:24 pm, they were alerted to the presence of two partially burned bodies found at the rear of a dwelling house in Park Hill, not far from the Playing Field.





The discovery (of the bodies) as per reports reaching THE VINCENTIAN, was made during the late hours of Monday morning by residents in the area.





The police confirmed the information relayed to then once they got to the location and, upon investigation and with the help of family members, were able to identify the charred bodies as those of Brenton Marvin Barker and Calvert Vert Smart.





In a subsequent press release, the police said the charred bodies had their limbs bound.





As is the procedure in matters of this sort, Coroner Colin John (Senior Magistrate) authorized the removal of the bodies to the Kingstown Mortuary.





Post-mortem examinations are to be conducted to determine the cause(s) of death.





As news of the gruesome deaths spread like the proverbial wildfire across social media platforms, comments ranged from "What could they have done to get that horrible death? to speculation, "There was no way the men died by fire. They were killed before the fire.





A source said the house at whose rear the bodies were found, was Barkers residence.

On Tuesday, police said that they had detained three residents of South Rivers as they continued their investigation, but did not identify those detained. The law men described the apprehension of the three individuals as "a significant development.





By Thursday they had made an arrest and charged the person accordingly.





Meanwhile, some residents of Park Hill told THE VINCENTIAN that they believed the burning of the two men was in connection with the death of Quentin Harvey Hackshaw, of South Rivers. Hackshaws body was found lying in the road leading to Byrea, with gunshot injuries on March 26.





Whatever, a police investigation is ongoing into what they describe as "a grim discovery, and they are soliciting the assistance of the public in this regard.





The deaths of Barker and Smart bring the homicide count for the year to 12.
All things being even, and given Antigua and Barbudas optimism, aircraft branded with the LIAT sign could be in the skies soon.

There seems to be no stopping the Gaston Browne-led government of Antigua and Barbuda from fulfilling its plan to create a fully authorized new, regional airline, already christened LIAT 2020, to replace the defunct LIAT (1974) Ltd. which officially ceased operations on January 24, 2024.





And there was recently another step in the direction of making LIAT 2020 a bona fide airline service.





AntiguaNewsRoom.com (ARM.com), a news website, reported on the weekend that LIAT 2020, the newly established airline spearheaded by the Antigua and Barbuda government, had completed a series of training flights under the observation of the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA).





The ECCAA is the regional authority responsible for all aviation-related matters in the Eastern Caribbean.

These flights are prerequisites for the issuing of an Air Operators Certificate (AOC) which would allow the airline to commence operations as a regular scheduled flight service provider.





ARM.com reported that two flights were launched from VC Bird International Airport, Antigua, on Saturday afternoon to St. Kitts and back, with two more similar flights made on Sunday morning. All the flights were monitored closely by ECCAA.





THE VINCENTIAN understands the training flights were successful, and the ECCAA has provided this new and other feedback to LIAT 2020 the new airline hastens to meet all requirements to receive the AOC.





Aircraft fleet for new airline





LIAT 2020 is a joint venture between the Antigua and Barbuda government and Nigerian airline, Air Peace.

As part of its contribution to LIAT 2020, Air Peace committed to provide three aircraft to the new airline, which are expected to arrive in Antigua and Barbuda shortly.





However, a photograph of an Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft, with registration number 5N-BVD and emblazoned with a LIAT sign across it fuselage, appeared in media outlets across the region.





While no confirmation was forthcoming, observations believe this to be part of the aircraft oromised by Air Peace.





Further news coming out of Antigua and Barbuda said that the Cabinet there had agreed to deposit US$12.1 million into an Escrow account towards the acquisition of the LIAT (1974) Ltd. planes, which were repossessed by the Caribbean Development Bank when the airline failed to meet its commitment on a loan payment to the bank.





Though news reports pointed to an actual purchase, THE VINCENTIAN could not confirm one way or the other whether this US$12.1 million was Antigua and Barbuda fulfilling its 32% share of the LIAT (1974) Ltd. debt to CDB, a debt that must be paid, according to the conditions of the loan, no matter the outcome of LIAT (1974) Ltd.; or whether it was a payment toward the actual purchase of the aircraft.





As of January this year, only one of the three aircraft in possession of the CDB was in working condition.





Flooded with applications





And in further related news, the Antigua Observer newspaper reported on April 4 that "..after just over a month of advertising, LIAT 2020 has attracted hundreds of job applications.





Indications are, the Observer said, that the new entity has received more than 800 applications in response to advertisements for experienced people to fill several positions crucial to the airlines operations, including positions of CEO, captains, first officers, cabin crew, and maintenance and engineering, information technology, and ground operations personnel.





Interim Chairman of LIAT 2020 Ambassador Daven Joseph confirmed, as per the Observer report, that the 800 plus applications included interest from ".. a tremendous amount of [former] LIAT workers.




The Parliament of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has passed, with bi-partisan support, stiffer penalties for some sex crimes by amending sections of which amends sections of Chapter 8 of the Criminal Code.





With the exception for the penalty for rape which remains a maximum sentence of life in imprisonment, and the penalty for buggery which remains at 10 years and assault with intent to commit buggery at 7 years, here are the adjustments in brief:





* penalty for sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 15 years moved from maximum 5 years imprisonment to 15 years;





* maximum penalty for sex with a girl under the age of 13 is life imprisonment;





* penalty for intercourse with a defective person moved from five years maximum imprisonment to 15 years;

* maximum sentence for indecent assault on a child under the age of 15  moved from 5 years to 10 years;

* indecency with a child, moved from a maximum of one year in prison to 10 years;





* person who permits premises to be used for sex with a girl under the age of 15  maximum sentence of 15 years  moved from 14 years;





* indecent assault of a girl 13 years old but under 15, maximum penalty moved from 7 years to 10 years imprisonment;





* for causing or encouraging the prostitution of a girl under the age of 15, maximum imprisonment moved from 7 years to 15 years;





* prostitution of a woman, detention in a brothel, a man living on earnings of prostitution, a woman exercising control over a prostitute, or keeping a brothel- moved from maximum 14 to 15 years imprisonment;





* person who lets premises to be used as a brothel  maximum penalty moved from 7 years to 10 years imprisonment; repeat offender, the maximum penalty moved from 14 to 15 years imprisonment;





* procurement of a woman by threats or intimidation to have unlawful sexual intercourse, moved from 2 to 7 years;





* procurement of a woman by false pretences adjusted from 2 to 7 years;





* administer drugs to facilitate intercourse  maximum sentence moved from 5 years to 10 years;





* penalty for incest - increased from 14 years maximum for a man and 7 years for a woman to a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment for both.




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China is committed to managing the situation at Ren'ai Jiao with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday.

Mao made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on Philippine President Marcos Jr.'s recent remarks. The President said he was horrified to learn of the gentleman's agreement between the Duterte administration and China on Ren'ai Jiao and would ask for clarification regarding the agreement. He also said that he is willing to maintain contact with China at all levels to ease tensions with every effort.

"First and foremost, I want to stress that Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao and China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao including Ren'ai Jiao and the adjacent waters," Mao said.

According to Mao, the reason behind the current situation at Ren'ai Jiao is very clear.

"The Philippines went back on its words and refuses to tow away the warship illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao," Mao said.

She said the Philippines denies the existence of the gentleman's agreement reached with China under the Duterte administration and has repeatedly infringed on China's sovereignty in those waters and made provocations.

The Philippines has abandoned the current administration's understandings with China on the Ren'ai Jiao issue, sent construction materials to the grounded warship for large-scale repair and reinforcement in an attempt to permanently occupy Ren'ai Jiao, Mao said.

She said if the Philippines truly wants to ease tensions at Ren'ai Jiao through dialogue and communication, it needs to honor the commitments and understandings and stop provocations.

Mao stated China's position on how to deal with the current situation at Ren'ai Jiao.

"First, by keeping its warship grounded at Ren'ai Jiao for decades running, the Philippines has been violating China's sovereignty and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), especially Article 5 which says refraining from action of inhabiting on the presently uninhabited islands and reefs," Mao said, adding China demands that the Philippines tow away the warship at once and restore the Ren'ai Jiao's state of hosting zero personnel and facilities.

"Second, before the warship is towed away, if the Philippines needs to send living necessities, out of humanitarianism, China is willing to allow it if the Philippines informs China in advance and after on-site verification is conducted. China will monitor the whole process," the spokesperson said.

"Third, if the Philippines sends large amount of construction materials to the warship and attempts to build fixed facilities and permanent outpost, China will not accept it and will resolutely stop it in accordance with law and regulations to uphold China's sovereignty and the sanctity of the DOC," Mao said.
(TBTCO) - Trong bai viet Chong lang phi viet thang 10/2024, Tong Bi thu, Chu tich nuoc To Lam khang inh: e nam bat co hoi, ay lui thach thuc, gia tang manh me nguon luc cham lo cho nhan dan, lam giau cho at nuoc trong giai oan cach mang moi, xay dung tuong lai tot ep, cong tac phong, chong lang phi can uoc trien khai quyet liet, ong bo voi nhung giai phap huu hieu, tao su lan toa manh me, tro thanh tu nguyen, tu giac cua moi can bo, ang vien va nguoi dan, van hoa ung xu trong thoi ai moi; chu trong mot so giai phap trong tam.
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A father yesterday called for police officers to be trained to handle people with mental health conditions, after his son was shot and killed by a municipal officer on Friday afternoon.

He needed help and they kill him, Cleophas Noel said of his son, Elijah Noel.

Cleophas said Elijah, 20, was schizophrenic.
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Riyad Mansour (C), permanent observer of Palestine to the United Nations, is seen ahead of the Security Council meeting to renew consideration of Palestine's full UN membership, at the UN Headquarters in New York, on April 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

China supports full UN membership for Palestine, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday.

Mao made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked about China's position on UN membership for Palestine.

It is reported that recently Palestine formally requested the UN Security Council to reconsider its application for full UN membership submitted in 2011. The Council met on April 8 and referred the application to the Committee of Admission of New Members for its deliberation. The United States said that prior to a wider agreement between Palestine and Israel, it will continue opposing Palestine's full UN membership.

Mao said the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the severe humanitarian crisis it has caused are yet another reminder that the only way to end the vicious cycle of Palestinian-Israeli conflicts is to fully implement the two-State solution, establish an independent state of Palestine and redress the historical injustice long suffered by the Palestinians.
Question:

I have noticed ads on social media about a green card lottery. Is this an official programme?

Answer:

The green card lottery, officially known as the Diversity Visa Program, is an annual immigration programme implemented under US law. Through the programme 50,000 immigrant visas are allocated randomly to people from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. Individuals born in Trinidad and Tobago are eligible to enter.
Gov. Katie Hobbs announced she will appoint Liz Archuleta and Jadyn Fisher to the Arizona Board of Regents in an effort to bring increased transparency and accountability.

I am proud to add two outstanding members to the Arizona Board of Regents who share the mission of strengthening higher education for all Arizonans, Hobbs said in her statement Thursday. I am looking forward to working with Liz, Jadyn and the other board members to improve accountability and transparency with the university system.

Hobbs previously criticized ABOR for a lack of accountability and oversight of the University of Arizonas finances after the university revealed a $177 million deficit the regents failed to catch.

Archuleta will serve as a regent while Fisher, a student at Northern Arizona University, will be a student regent.

Liz Archuleta brings exceptional expertise in governance, management and budgetary matters to ABOR, Hobbs wrote. As a student regent, Jadyn Fisher will be excellent in representing the voice and perspectives of our university students from across the state.

Archuleta is a fourth-generation Northern Arizona native who serves Coconino, Apache and Navajo counties as president and CEO of the United Way of Northern Arizona.

As a native Arizonan with five generations of family roots in Flagstaff, I bring my pioneering family history, knowledge of rural Arizona and a strong commitment to education and community building, coupled with extensive experience in board governance, public service and leadership, Archuleta said in a statement I am ready to roll up my sleeves and help shape the future of higher education in Arizona.

A graduate of NAU, Archuleta is set to replace outgoing regent Lyndel Manson, whose term has expired.

Fisher, the student regent, said in a statement that she is so honored to have the opportunity to represent NAU.

I am incredibly passionate about advocating for students and look forward to stepping into this role, she said.

She will replace Katelyn Rees, a UA student who has concluded her two-year term. Fisher is pursuing a bachelors of science in elementary education and is in the Honors College at NAU.
You are here: World

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On March 23, the 3rd Lancang-Mekong Sub-region Forum on International Rule of Law was held at Yunnan Police College in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province.

With the theme of "Security Collaboration in Building Lancang-Mekong Community with a Shared Future," the forum was hosted by China Behavioral Law Society, Yunnan Law Society, Yunnan Police College, and co-organized by the Lancang-Mekong Integrated Law Enforcement and Security Cooperation Center.

The 3rd Lancang-Mekong Sub-region Forum on International Rule of Law was held at Yunnan Police College in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, on March 23, 2024. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
Trump and stochastic terrorism

I and others have mentioned the term: stochastic terrorism in this forum. I discovered the term in 2016 and was amazed at how well it fit what Donald Trump continues to do during his rants to the press and lectures to his loyal followers. Remember when he goaded one of his minions to physically assault another rally goer, telling him not to be reluctant to do so because he would cover lawyers fees for the assault? Trump continues to act out like a disgruntled child, showing his pain to his followers and the rest of the world but most of all, to keep his name and face in the daily news cycle. Today we see a judge issue a severe statement to Trump to stop issuing threats for every incident he considered a slight. This rhetoric has been numbing to all. We can make it stop. Vote!

Alan Barreuther

Foothills

Votes disappear

Arizona Legislature is set to bombard our ballot with propositions that erase or restrict citizens votes.

Judges who are influenced by large gifts, family, or religion, refusing to recuse themselves, need to go. Voters demand term limits. But, instead of AZ citizens voting to retain judges (or not) every 4 to 6 years, Mr. Gowan (LD19) wants to retain 100+ judges placed by Doug Ducey until their mandatory retirement age of 70. This legislation would end term limits that came from a peoples initiative proposition. Our votes? Gone.

Mr. Mesnard (LD13) would allow anyone to sue to remove a peoples initiative from the ballot by claiming it is not constitutional, despite hundreds of thousands of voters who signed petitions. Our voices silenced. Ms. Jones (LD17) wants to give all our electoral votes to Donald Trump, and close voting centers, forcing voters to vote in their own precincts. Our votes? Erased. Voting confined.

Beware of propositions by the Legislature.

Cindy Doklan

Midtown

Islamophobic Opinion Page

Re: the April 3 article The Israeli-Hamas war in historical context.

Any Opinion page piece that begins with The Israeli-Hamas war is, sadly, simply one more battle in Islams centuries-long war against Western civilization . . . is simply Islamophobic. Jim Douthit can be ignored for his ignorance of history from the Crusades to the Balfour Declaration, but, sadly, not the AzDS Opinion page. To print such a mindless distortion of history prominently on the Opinion page is a disgrace and reprehensible. The AzDS Editorial Board should be ashamed of itself. Douthit can say anything he wants, but the AzDS is not obligated to print such garbage. I am not justifying Hamas, far from it, but to paint all Muslims as Hamas supporters is nonsense; its the equivalent to painting all Jews as supporting the annihilation of Palestinians. In defending themselves,, they are defending our civilization; the Poles defended Vienna without slaughtering tens of thousands of women and children.

Richard Janik

Northeast side

Vote for climate recovery

Not a week goes by without more news concerning the dire effects of climate change. Last weeks bulletin announced giant heat waves are occurring 67% more often across the globe that are lasting longer, covering larger areas, and afflicting more people with increasingly higher temperatures.

Since he took office, Bidens administration has made great strides toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions by restoring 104 EPA protections Trump eliminated, adding more protections with stricter standards, and passing the largest climate relief package in the world with widespread investments in renewable energy sources, electric vehicles, and charging stations.

Trumps Project 2025 paints an entirely different and devastating picture that includes increasing the use of fossil fuels as one of his top priorities, eliminating Bidens Global Change Research Program, and replacing the current White House climate adviser with a fossil fuel advocate.

If we want a livable planet for ourselves, our children and grandchildren, our choice is clear. Every vote for Biden is a vote for climate recovery..

Lois Postil

Oro Valley

Biden is not a nice guy!

I have read a few Letters to the Editor claiming that Joe Biden is a nice guy. Not hardly. Just recently Biden stated at a Womens history event that he had four granddaughters, leaving out granddaughter Navy. Nice guy Biden willfully kept classified materials at several locations for use in doing a $8 million book deal. He shared classified information with his ghost writer. Biden has tolerated his brother James ripping off others like Americorp, and his son Hunter repeatedly using his name to conduct shady deals receiving millions from our adversaries such as China and Russia. Under Mr. nice guy Biden, there have been record numbers of migrant deaths along both sides of the border. Tara Reade does not think Biden is a nice guy. She has alleged he sexually assaulted her while as a U.S. Senator. The father of murdered Laken Riley does not think Biden is a nice guy either for allowing millions to illegally enter the country. Joe Biden is not a nice guy!

Alan Jeffords

Midtown

Dubious commencement choice

Re: the April 5 article Actor Craig T. Nelson to deliver UA commencement speech.

Surely, with tens of thousands of alumni, a more illustrious choice for commencement speaker could have been made than a right-wing Tea Party-ite. To what will Craig T. Smith urge graduates to aspire? Promoting not paying taxes, as he told Glenn Beck? The praises of President Robbins are never a good sign.

Mary Bradshaw

Oro Valley

See the light

To get the support of anti-immigration white Christian nationalists, Donald Trump calls migrants animals who poison the blood of America.

Immigrants are human beings, not objects. Some come here to work and get an education. Others flee persecution, armed conflicts or violence. For them, America is a shining beacon of light. That has always been our promise. I have immigrant ancestors who came here from Europe and served in both World Wars. They didnt wreck this country. Rather, they contributed to it by protecting our democracy.

The six immigrant workers from Mexico and Central America who died in the Key Bridge collapse were doing labor essential to the Baltimore community. Hispanic workers are more likely than other racial and ethnic groups to die on the job with construction being a particularly deadly industry.

What would Jesus say to those who, under the cloak of religion, seek to objectify human beings and sow hatred? How about forgiving those you hate and opening your hearts?

Cindy Bordelon

Downtown

George Wills voucher scam

Re: the April 8 article Arizona is a model for school choice, and Dems arent happy.

George Wills opinion column about Arizona being a model for school choice was ignorant and grossly misinformed. He cites an average of about $7100 as the cost to the state (read local public schools), but that figure doesnt take into account some of the outrageous amounts being covered for luxuries and non-essentials. Nor does it account for the massive transfer of wealth taking place from poorer taxpayers to wealthy individuals. In fact, substantial amounts of taxpayer money is now going to those who were previously paying for private schools with their own money and can now spend our money instead. Many less well-off parents are still left short by vouchers, as they cant also afford to pay for uniforms, books and transportation. School Choice is a scam on taxpayers from rich rightwing backers and we need to push back against it.

Gail Kamaras

East side

Trump no underdog

A letter writers explanation of why #45 is now an underdog due to liberal media and the courts is pure fantasy. Because we all know hes The Overcat. Im amazed at the length this letter goes to try to tell us that the former and worst prez ever to inhabit 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. is a better person than we all know he is. His premise that because his hero hasnt been convicted yet #45 isnt guilty. He goes on to say that the media and liberals should have convicted Hillary and the Biden family. Why exactly he cant say since they didnt/havent done anything wrong. His idol has been charged with 71 felony counts that havent proceeded through court yet, thus the reason he hasnt been convicted. If you are of the mind to support this man, I feel sorry that youre being conned and still dont realize it.

John Bingham

Northwest side

Young voters and Biden

Re: the April 8 article Young voters spell trouble for Biden.

Every American voter has the right to make an independent decision. However, in our archaic system with only two parties, voting against one candidate, i.e. Biden, means voting for the other, i.e., Trump. We had that dilemma before, with the Green party candidate Ralph Nader spoiling Al Gores chance of winning against Bush in 2000. The results were the illegal and catastrophic wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Of course, criticize Biden, for instance, but would you be ready to accept a second term for Trump? Does the Generation Z even comprehend the dire consequences for themselves in that case? Book burnings, a total ban on abortions, environmental disasters, the militarization of the southern border, abandonment of Ukraine, buckling under Putin, endangerment of our public education system, etc. would all be part of Trumps agenda. I do not believe that young people would accept all those changes in their lives, so they better vote for what they truly believe in. Pragmatic politics require some compromise, not radicalism.

Albrecht Classen

Midtown

Biden, the cafeteria Catholic

President Biden claims to be a practicing Catholic, yet supports issues that are contrary to the Churchs teachings. The Vatican released its Dignitas Infinita, Latin for Infinite Dignity. In it, the Church reaffirmed its opposition to gender theory (gender transitioning) calling it an attempt to play God. The Church is staunchly against abortion. Meanwhile, Biden staunchly supports abortion rights, even into the third trimester. He supports gender transitioning, even by children without parental consent. The same with abortion. Recently, Cardinal Wilton Gregory of Washington, D.C., chastised Biden for being a cafeteria Catholic, choosing what parts of Catholicism to adhere to. That although Biden attends Mass regularly with great devotion, he steps aside and exploits certain hot button issues to his political advantage. In other words, Biden has sold out his Catholic faith for political gain. I have never understood how anyone can claim to be a Catholic or of any religion, while supporting the practice of vacuum suctioning, violently ending the developing life of an innocent beautiful baby.

Ardel Francis

Northwest side

Not antisemitism

Using ones voice to object to the slaughter and mutilation of masses of little children with 2,000 pound dumb bombs, is not anti-Semitic. Starving babies to death is not defending your country.

I am pro-humanity  all humanity.

Judith Hassoun

Northwest side

PACC desperately overcrowded

Industrial production/distribution of companion animals is an epic crisis; 1 million euthanized annually, overcrowding epidemics, stray populations, exhausted supporters. Narrow special interests produce and distribute animals as disposable commodities while national animal welfare orgs, hoard millions with bloated lavish executive salaries benefits and neglect legislative and media campaigns.

ASPCA with 500 million assets, CEOs million-dollar salary, broadcasts images of shivering, suffering mill dogs as hostages for a monthly donation subscription, only 2% distributed to local shelters. Best Friends solicits for a Craigslist Campaign used by backyard breeders and puppy-mills against CL own policy, yet thousands of listings continue daily. Best Friends cant get Craigslist to enforce its own policy?

HSUS complains it cant pass legislation because American Kennel Club legislative arm opposes. With hundreds of millions in assets, HSUSs legislative arm cant overcome that?

Corporate and individuals: Donate to worthy local rescues and county shelters in urgent need until national orgs produce structural change instead of hoarding millions for empire building and exorbitant salaries.

Candace Charvoz Frank
The Ford Everest Platinum was officially priced at VND1.545 billion (US$61,825) in the Vietnamese market on Thursday, with all completely built-up units being imported from Thailand.

The Ford Everest is a mid-size SUV, produced by American auto manufacturer Ford Motor Company.

The Ford Everest Platinum 2024 is different from the Titanium version, with a unique grille design being a highlight of the car. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The Ford Everest Platinum also boasts a matrix LED lighting system and impressive LED fog lights. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The Ford Everest Platinum features six-double spoke 20-inch wheels. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The interior of the Ford Everest Platinum is equipped with heated and ventilated leather-accented seats for both the driver and passengers, featuring a 10-way power adjustment for the driver along with a memory function. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The Ford Everest Platinum features an electronic gearbox, a four-wheel drive system, a 12-inch center touchscreen, and a panoramic roof. Photo: Tuoi Tre

With its I4 2.0L engine, the Ford Everest Platinum can produce 207 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Meanwhile, the Suzuki Jimny, a four-wheel drive off-road mini sport utility vehicle manufactured by Japanese automaker Suzuki, was officially put on display in local showrooms on Wednesday.

The Suzuki Jimny is available in Vietnam in two versions with nine colors at a price of VND799 million ($31,670).

The Suzuki Jimny measures 3.625 meters long and 1.645 meters wide, and has a wheelbase of 2.250 meters. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The Suzuki Jimny features automated LED projector headlights. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The Suzuki Jimny has five-double spoke 15-inch wheels. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The interior of the Suzuki Jimny is equipped with a nine-inch screen and a single-zone automatic vehicle climate control system. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Its 1.5L engine can generate 101 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque. Photo: Tuoi Tre

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Vietnam has requested Cambodia to share information on the US$1.7 billion Funan Techo canal project and evaluate its possible impacts on the water resources as well as the ecological environment of the Mekong Delta region, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Deputy spokesman for the foreign ministry Doan Khac Viet was speaking at a regular press meeting in Hanoi on Thursday in reply to foreign reporters' query related to the Funan Techo canal project, recently announced by the Cambodian Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

Vietnam supports the socio-economic development of all countries along the Mekong River, and at the same time value cooperation in the management, use, and protection of the rivers water resources for the regions sustainable development, the interests of regional countries, the future of next generations, and the solidarity of relevant nations, Viet stated.

The diplomat stressed that Vietnam is therefore very interested in the canal project.

Vietnam has asked Cambodia to maintain close cooperation with Vietnam and the Mekong River Commission in sharing information and evaluating the possible impacts of the canal on the water resources and ecological environment of the Mekong Delta region to ensure a harmony of interests among riverine nations and their people, Viet said.

According to Cambodian media, the canal is expected to be 180km long, connecting the Phnom Penh river port with the Gulf of Thailand, southwest of Cambodia.

The canal will run through the Cambodian provinces of Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep.

A screenshot shows a graphic map of the Funan Techo canal project, comprising the canal's first and second sections in red, recently announced by the Cambodian Ministry of Public Works and Transport. Photo: Straits Times

This project was previously called the Bassac River Navigation and Logistics System (BRNLS), which was renamed Funan Techo canal at the sixth plenary session of the Cambodian National Assembly on May 19, 2023.

According to a Cambodian document submitted to the Mekong River Commission in August 2023, the canal will begin operating in 2028.

Construction on the project is expected to kick off by the end of this year at an estimated cost of about $1.7 billion.

According to its design, the Funan Techo canal will be 100m and 80m wide upstream and downstream, respectively, and have a consistent depth of 5.4m.

Last month, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed that the Funan Techo canal project would benefit about 1.6 million people living along it and create many other benefits for national development, according to Khmer Times.

The project is also expected to attract enterprises in various industries to the canal area, generating a lot of jobs for locals.

PM Manet also said that the Funan Techo canal will be built by Chinese construction partners under the build-operate-transfer (BOT) method.

AFP cited Cambodian officials as saying that the canal will be constructed with Chinese funding.

In a speech on Thursday in Takeo, where the future canal will go through, Manet reiterated that Cambodia will push forward the plan to build the Funan Techo canal connecting the capital Phnom Penh to the sea.

Dismissing concerns surrounding the construction of this canal, the PM said the canal is a historic project that will provide benefits to our people, according to AFP.

Speaking about concerns that Chinese warships could use the canal, Manet affirmed, We will not allow (any country) to use our country as a base against other countries, let alone a military base.

He added that the canal would be too shallow for a warship to pass through.

The Cambodian leader also claimed that the canal would not impact the water flow of the mainstream Mekong, whose fisheries help feed millions in the region.

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Vietnam and Thailand have determined to bring bilateral trade to US$25 billion soon by expanding mutual trade and investment, and facilitating market access for each others goods, as recently pledged by senior officials of both countries.

Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara co-chaired the fifth Meeting of the Vietnam-Thailand Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Bangkok on Thursday, as part of the formers three-day visit to Thailand starting Wednesday at the latters invitation.

The meeting undertook a comprehensive review of the bilateral cooperation over the past time, outlined directions to deepen ties in all fields, and discussed preparations for the upcoming official visit by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to Vietnam.

Thavisin and his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh will co-chair the fourth joint cabinet meeting during that visit.

The Vietnamese FM and his host expressed pleasure to see the Vietnam-Thailand enhanced strategic partnership developing more practically, intensively, and extensively on the basis of mutual respect, trust, and benefits.

Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (R) receives Vietnams Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son at their meeting in Bangkok on April 11, 2024. Photo: Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Thailand remains Vietnams largest trading partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with annual bilateral trade surpassing the $20 billion mark in 2022.

The kingdom currently ranks ninth among countries and territories investing in Vietnam.

The host and guest agreed to expand business and investment cooperation between enterprises of both countries, and facilitate market access for the two sides' goods by easing trade defense measures in order to push the bilateral trade to $25 billion in the near future in a more balanced way.

Besides trade and investment, collaboration in other areas such as defense, security, education, culture, tourism, finance, and people-to-people exchanges has continued to flourish over time.

Son reaffirmed Vietnam's consistent policy on highly valuing and wishing to further strengthen its strategic partnership with Thailand in all spheres, while Parnpree highlighted Vietnam as a leading partner of Thailand in the region and expressed his hope to elevate the relationship to a new height.

Vietnams Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son (L) and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Thailand Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara shake hands at their meeting in Bangkok on April 11, 2024. Photo: Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Thai official agreed with Son about the need to explore cooperative opportunities in digital transformation, digital economy, digital society, and e-government, while beefing up collaboration in green economy, circular economy, innovative ecosystem development, and connectivity of innovation startup networks.

The two officials concurred that the two governments should form a collaborative working group aimed at developing targeted initiatives related to supply chains, fair energy transition, electric vehicle infrastructure, and advanced agricultural practices.

This effort falls within the framework of the 'three connectivity' drive jointly adopted by both countries in 2022, which includes the interlinkages between supply chains, economic sectors, and sustainable growth strategies of both nations.

As part of his visit, Minister Son met with Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn earlier on the same day, thanking the Thai king and the princess herself for their sentiments for Vietnam, reflected in the princess-composed song named Vietnam An Long (Vietnam at Peace), which she performed at Chulalongkorn University last month.

The Vietnamese diplomat also paid a courtesy visit to Thai Prime Minister Thavisin, during which Son affirmed that the Vietnam - Thailand cooperative ties are at their best time ever, and called on both sides to further facilitate bilateral trade toward the target of $25 billion in the coming time.

Vietnam and Thailand established diplomatic relations in 1976 and the two nations entered a strategic partnership in 2013. They then upgraded it to the enhanced strategic partnership in 2019.

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Traffic police officers in Dong Nai Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, on Wednesday caught two men fishing out dead shrimp and fish from the Dong Nai River after pouring a bottle of pesticide into the water.

Local waterway traffic police officers on Thursday said they were completing dossiers to handle the duo, L.D.P., 38, and N.H.D., 33, both residents of Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province.

At about 12:30 am on Wednesday, a team of waterway traffic police officers were patrolling the Dong Nai River when they found P. and D. catching shrimp and fish from the water.

Police officers at the scene confiscated an empty bottle of pesticide, two rackets, and two power inverters. Photo: Supplied

Upon seeing the police, P. threw the empty bottle of pesticide, branded 'Sanpen alpha,' into the river.

The police then arrested the two and seized a wooden dinghy, two accumulators, two power inverters, two fish rackets, two kilograms of shrimp, and one kilogram of fish.

P. and D. confessed to deliberately releasing pesticide into the Dong Nai River with the intention of capturing seafood for subsequent sale.

P. admitted to personally conducting the act of pouring the pesticide into the river.

The fish and shrimp caught by the two men. Photo: Supplied

After fish and shrimp washed ashore, they used rackets to collect their 'catch.'

Local authorities are continuing to investigate the case and will punish the two in accordance with the law.

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A certain number of eateries offering chicken rice in Nha Trang City, a popular beach destination in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam, has shut down over poor sales, following many suspected food poisoning incidents linked to chicken dishes in the area.

Several markets in the city saw a few stalls of chicken open on Wednesday, according to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters observation.

Some chicken merchants at Xom Moi Market said that each of them could sell 20 chickens or more a day before several food poisoning cases reportedly caused by consuming chicken-based dishes were detected.

Nguyen Thi Cuc, head of the management board of the market, said that chicken imports at all four stalls at the market have dipped 60 percent.

Cuc also underlined that the management board daily inspects the quality of chicken and marks it for its clear origin.

She also reassured residents about purchasing chicken from Xom Moi Market.

Meanwhile, Dam Nha Trang Market had only two vendors selling live chickens on Wednesday, as others closed their stalls due to slack demand, following several food poisoning cases.

An absence of customers has led many restaurants and eateries serving chicken dishes to temporarily shut down.

According to the owner of Chicken Rice Eatery 78 on Le Dai Hanh Street, she was told a few days ago that an intersectoral inspection team would check all restaurants and eateries in Nha Trang.

Several food poisoning cases have occurred in the city, frightening diners, said Nguyen Thi Thai Thoan, the owner of Ut Chicken Rice Eatery on Yersin Street.

My eatery was temporarily closed, waiting for the situation to improve, Thoan added.

A stall of chicken at Xom Moi Market in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam. Photo: Minh Chien / Tuoi Tre

Due to sluggish sales, live chicken and chicken meat vendors at many markets in Nha Trang expected local authorities to promptly clarify the cause of the recent food poisoning cases and find the origin of chicken used in the dishes allegedly causing these scandals.

Tran Thanh Thuy, deputy head of the Khanh Hoa Sub-Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, said that residents should not be worried about such food poisoning cases.

The sub-department frequently sends dispatches to slaughterhouses asking them to follow the regulations on food safety and veterinary hygiene, and marking meat for its quality.

Trinh Ngoc Hiep, deputy director of the provincial Department of Health, noted that the current hot weather makes it easier for bacteria to grow, so consumers should select food and store meat and vegetables carefully.

Over the past month, Nha Trang has recorded several cases of food poisoning linked to chicken dishes.

Specifically, a case occurred at Vinh Truong Elementary School and Tran Hung Dao Middle School in Nha Trang on April 5, killing a grade-five student and causing over 30 others to be hospitalized.

They had consumed chicken rice, bread with shredded chicken, and fried egg bread.

In mid-March, nearly 370 people were hospitalized for suspected food poisoning after consuming chicken rice at Tram Anh Restaurant located on Ba Trieu Street in the city.

Ten students at Nguyen Van Troi High School were hospitalized after consuming chicken rice and spaghetti purchased from a vendor near the school on March 29.

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Chinese new energy industry contributes to global green, low-carbon transition

09:50, April 12, 2024 By He Yin ( People's Daily

In recent years, China's new energy industry has developed rapidly, and international cooperation in this field has accelerated.

The international community pays close attention to the development of China's new energy industry, believing that China has made significant contributions to global green and low-carbon transformation and has become an important driver for global energy transition and climate change mitigation.

China's new energy industry has made positive contributions to global emissions reduction. Since the introduction of the "dual carbon" goals in 2020, which means peaking carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, China has steadfastly fulfilled its commitments, accelerating the transformation of its energy structure and promoting the rapid development of renewable energy.

According to a report by the International Energy Agency, the global annual renewable capacity additions stood at 510 million kilowatts last year, and China contributed over half to this figure, making a tremendous contribution to the growth of global renewable energy generation.

Photo shows a geothermal power station built by a Chinese company in Kenya. (Photo by Huang Weixin/People's Daily)

Chinese wind and solar products have been exported to over 200 countries and regions worldwide, helping developing countries access clean, reliable, and affordable energy.

In 2022, China's renewable energy generation was equivalent to reducing domestic CO2 emissions by approximately 2.26 billion tons, and the exported wind and solar products helped other countries reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 573 million tons. The two figures added up to 2.8 billion tons of emissions, or about 41 percent of the world's total carbon emissions reduction converted from renewable energy.

China's new energy technologies have provided significant support for global green and low-carbon transformation. After years of development, China has become a global leader in various new energy technologies and equipment manufacturing. It has established the world's largest clean power supply system, and Chinese new energy vehicles, lithium batteries, and photovoltaic products have brought new hopes to global climate change mitigation efforts.

From the connection of the world's first 16-megawatt offshore wind turbine to the power grid to the commercial operation of the world's first fourth-generation nuclear power plant, and from a new power battery enabling a range of 1,000 kilometers on a single charge to intelligent cabins equipped with artificial intelligence models, China's new energy industry is contributing wisdom and strength to global energy transformation through its innovation and reliability.

Photo shows a wind farm built by a Chinese company in Akmola Region, Kazakhstan. The wind farm is a key project on the list of China-Kazakhstan capacity cooperation. (Photo by Li Qiang/People's Daily)

According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency, average kilowatt-hour cost of global wind power and photovoltaic power generation have decreased by more than 60 percent and 80 percent respectively in the past decade, a large part of which is attributed to China's innovation, manufacturing and engineering.

Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency, highlighted that China's provision of services and support to other countries has significantly improved the accessibility of clean energy technologies and reduced the global cost of using green technologies.

China is promoting cooperation in the new energy industry in an orderly manner and building a new model for green and low-carbon energy transformation that benefits all.

The Al Shuaibah Solar Photovoltaic Project, constructed by a Chinese company in Saudi Arabia, is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 245 million tons over 35 years, equivalent to planting 545 million trees.

A solar photovoltaic park, jointly built by a Chinese company and its European partners, will provide green electricity to 38,000 Danish households and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 106,000 tons annually.

Chinese companies' overseas investments in clean energy cover major areas such as wind power, solar power, and hydropower, helping other countries achieve their carbon reduction goals. This has created new industries and employment opportunities, promoting common development and prosperity.

In 2023, China exported over 1.2 million new energy vehicles, representing a year-on-year growth of 77.6 percent. This has positioned China as a significant force leading the transformation in the global automotive industry.

Chinese-manufactured electric buses can be seen cruising the streets of Rwanda, contributing to local environmental initiatives. Additionally, Chinese automakers have established new energy vehicle factories in Thailand, assisting the upgrading of the country's automotive industry.

These facts demonstrate that China's new energy industry provides high-quality production capacity that contributes to the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the goals of the Paris Agreement. All countries can benefit from it. From a global perspective, the more of this capacity, the better.

Pure electric buses manufactured by Chinese company Yutong run on a street of Copenhagen, capital of Denmark. (Photo by Wang Yage)

Climate change is a global challenge, and the development of the new energy industry and the achievement of green and low-carbon transformation are common aspirations of all countries.

China has achieved rapid development in the new energy industry through technological innovation, a well-established supply chain system, and market competition. With an open attitude, it actively engages in international cooperation, bringing opportunities for green and win-win development to countries around the world.

China looks forward to continuing to work with all parties to promote the high-quality development of the new energy industry, so as to enhance the well-being of all humanity, and contribute to the building of a clean and beautiful world.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A mother transported her four-year-old daughter from Cambodia to Vietnam for medical treatment, where doctors from Ho Chi Minh Citys Childrens Hospital 2 were able to treat her severe dengue.

On Thursday, the hospital's medical team announced that they had treated and saved the life of the Cambodian girl who faced extensive liver and kidney damage due to multiple-organ failure stemming from the illness.

The girl, C.C.V., who resides in a Cambodian locality on the border with Binh Phuoc Province in southern Vietnam, is recovering gradually and expected to be released from the hospital in the next few days.

V. was admitted to Children's Hospital 2 on March 26 in a critical state.

Doctor Do Chau Viet at the hospital said V. was immediately put on a ventilator, provided with electrolyte solutions, and given a blood transfusion and cardiac medications.

After 24 hours of intensive care, the girls hemodynamic status was still unstable and she was forced to undergo continuous renal replacement and liver treatment.

She is now in stable condition and no longer needs dialysis treatment or a ventilator. She has also been moved out of the intensive care room.

V.s family was thankful that Vietnamese doctors were able to save their daughter. She also received support from benefactors through the Children's Hospital 2s social affairs unit.

According to Dr. Viet, dengue fever is an infectious disease caused by the dengue virus through the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

Children are susceptible to the disease and may die without prompt treatment.

He advised parents to take their children to hospital if their fever does not subside after 24 hours.

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An international conference on genome editing and sustainable agricultural development took place in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam on Thursday, gathering nearly 100 attendees including scientists, researchers, and industry leaders from 12 countries and territories.

The conference, entitled Advances in Plant Biology -- From Genome Editing to Sustainable Development,' was co-hosted by the U.S. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Institute of Biotechnology under the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, the scientific and educational organization Rencontres du Vietnam (Meeting Vietnam), and the International Center for Interdisciplinary Science and Education.

The event comprised four sessions, during which approximately 20 papers were delivered by speakers from a range of countries, including the U.S., China, Australia, Japan, South Korea, India, and Vietnam.

A Japanese speaker presents a mechanism for genome editing and the latest studies on genome editing at a conference titled Advances in Plant Biology -- From Genome Editing to Sustainable Development held in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam, April 11, 2024. Photo: Lam Thien / Tuoi Tre

Their presentations provided specific explanations on the basic science of genome editing in plants and the latest studies regarding important plants like rice, tomatoes, sugarcane.

The speakers also highlighted genome editing techniques capable of enhancing the quality and climate-resilient capacity of plants.

Aside from featuring expert insights and perspectives related to genome editing, the conference hosted a special session in which participants were briefed on legal issues and different approaches in the management of genome-edited plants.

Speaking at the event, Professor David Jackson from the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, said that the conference served as a knowledge-sharing platform focused on the latest breakthroughs in the field of genome editing in order to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security in a sustainable environment.

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Acclaimed Australian films 'Top End Wedding' and 'Storm Boy' are being shown at select cinemas in Ho Chi Minh City from April 6 to 13.

The public screenings of the two films take place in partnership with the first-ever Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival, the Australian Consulate General said in a press release on Thursday.

The screenings are expected to offer a captivating cinematic experience to film enthusiasts and the general public in Ho Chi Minh City.

They also form an integral part of the inaugural Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival, an event designed to promote cultural dialogues and enhance cross-cultural understanding, according to the press release.

'Top End Wedding' follows the heartwarming journey of Lauren and Ned across the Australian outback in search of Lauren's missing mother.

A screenshot from 'Top End Wedding,' directed by Wayne Blair. Photo: HIFF

Meanwhile, 'Storm Boy' presents an adventure set against the breathtaking backdrop of South Australia, delving into the themes of friendship and wildlife protection.

"We are honored to present these distinguished Australian films, which showcase the depth and diversity of Australian storytelling," said Ciaran Chestnutt, acting consul general at the Australian Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.

"These screenings underscore our commitment to fostering cultural exchange and appreciation for international cinema."

Admission to these screenings is VND 50,000 (US$2) and tickets are available for purchase at Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festivals website at hiff.vn/tickets.

Amongst the screenings will be a free screening of 'Top End Wedding' at Galaxy Nguyen Du at 116 Nguyen Du Street in District 1 on April 12 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Though entry is free, advanced registration is required at hiff.vn/ticket/top-end-wedding-4.

The Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival (HIFF), which is hosted by the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee and Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, is an annual cinematic extravaganza that celebrates the art of storytelling through film.

Nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, HIFF serves as a global platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts to come together, share their love for cinema, and explore the magic of storytelling through the lens.

The 2024 HIFF is taking place from April 6 to 13.

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The banh mi (Vietnamese bread) stall of Cu Ly has been in business for over 70 years in Ho Chi Minh City, making it one of the most popular and time-honored sandwich brands in the southern metropolis.

The Vietnamese record organization VietKings recognized Cu Lys bread stall as one of the top 10 oldest and most famous sandwich stands in Ho Chi Minh City during Vietnams first-ever Banh Mi Festival in March and April last year.

The majority of Cu Lys customers are office workers and students looking for a hearty breakfast.

In addition to its bread, Cu Lys is also known for its wide selection of cha (Vietnamese pork rolls).

A family tradition

On weekends, the line for Cu Lys begins forming at 6:00 am when hungry customers gather on the sidewalk of Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, eagerly waiting for the stall to open.

Around 6:15 am, Nguyen Hoang Quoc Thien, the current owner of Cu Lys, sets up a bamboo tray on the sidewalk covered with banana leaves to display the wide array of cha for sale.

Its quite crowded, so there might be a bit of a wait, one middle-aged female customer remarked amidst the crowd.

Hold on, just a moment, beauty, Thien quickly answered back.

Cu Lys 'banh mi' stall on Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ho Lam / Tuoi Tre

Cu Lys iconic bread tray is a familiar sight for local residents who have watched the stall continuously grow in popularity over the past 70 years.

Originally hailing from Vietnams northern region, Cu Ly began selling bread in Alley 191 down Hai Ba Trung Street more than seven decades ago.

Thien, now the third generation to run the stall, considers it an honor to uphold the family legacy.

Cu Ly is my grandfather, Thien said.

Then my uncle took over but decided to stop after a few years.

Then it was my turn. Ive been selling banh mi here for almost two decades now.

Customers crowd Cu Lys 'banh mi' stall on Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ho Lam / Tuoi Tre

500 loaves every morning

Reflecting on his commitment to the bakery, Thien emphasized his appreciation for the connection between banh mi and Vietnamese culture.

He also shared his deep appreciation for the community support he has received over the years.

During the bustling morning hours, Cu Lys bread stall sells over 500 loaves, each priced at VND25,000-30,000 (US$1-1.2), and approximately 40-50kg of cha.

I often come here to buy breakfast before heading to work, said Thien Long, a loyal customer who works as a security guard, underscoring his decades-long relationship with Cu Lys.

The different types of cha' (Vietnamese pork rolls) served at Cu Lys 'banh mi' stall on Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ho Lam / Tuoi Tre

In Longs opinion, the array of cha at Cu Ly's offers a uniquely diverse range of flavors, requiring time and attention for customers to fully appreciate the subtle nuances of each type.

The fillings of the sandwiches at the stall consist of five varieties of cha, namely cha bo thi la (Vietnamese beef bologna with dill), cha que (deep-fried cinnamon-flavored pork rolls), cha chien (deep-fried pork rolls), cha lua (pork rolls), and gio thu (brawn).

They are unique in that they exclude pate, butter, and pickles, while featuring onions, cucumbers, and chilies instead.

Thien attributes this to the stalls northern origin and its dedication to retaining the original family recipe from the business inception.

A modest sign for Cu Lys 'banh mi' stall hangs on a motorbike. Photo: Ho Lam / Tuoi Tre

I omit pate and butter as my sandwich already features a generous amount of cha. I use onions to complement its flavors, the owner explained.

All of the ingredients used at Cu Lys are handmade by Thiens family, who wake up at 2:00 am every day to begin preparations.

To ensure freshness, the bread is sourced from a trusted bakery and brought to the stall every half hour, ensuring its warmth and crispness.

According to Thien, many people enjoy his bread for its delicious taste, while others come to enjoy the nostalgia associated with the bustling streets of the city center.

Numerous regular customers purchase my sandwiches and then linger nearby to enjoy their meals amongst the cityscape, he said.

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The Night Manager, inspired by the characters in John le Carres best-selling novel and starring Tom Hiddleston, will return for two new series, due to begin filming later this year.

Produced by The Ink Factory (The Pigeon Tunnel, The Little Drummer Girl) in association with Character 7, Demarest Films and 127 Wall, and in co-production with Spanish partner Nostromo Pictures.

The new seasons will premiere outside of the UK on Prime Video, after the debut season was on BBC First and SBS in Australia

Tom Hiddleston (Loki, The Essex Serpent) will reprise his iconic role as Jonathan Pine. The Night Manager will once again be written by series creator David Farr. Georgi Banks-Davies (I Hate Suzie, Paper Girls) is attached to direct all six episodes of series two. Stephen Garrett will return to lead the production of the series. Hugh Laurie (All The Light We Cannot See, VEEP) will be an executive producer on the upcoming series.

The Night Manager will pick up with Jonathan Pine eight years after the explosive finale of season one.

Tom Hiddleston says: The first series of The Night Manager was one of the most creatively fulfilling projects I have ever worked on. The depth, range and complexity of Jonathan Pine was, and remains, a thrilling prospect. Im so looking forward to reuniting with Simon and Stephen Cornwell, David Farr and Stephen Garrett, and to working with Georgi Banks-Davies to tell the next chapter of our story. I cant wait.

David Farr says: John le Carres work has long been an inspiration to me and working closely with him on Season 1 was an honour and a pleasure. I did not tread lightly into extending The Night Manager beyond the original book, but an idea came to me a couple of years ago which felt truthful to that unique world of dark corners and shady identities. No one marries the suspense of espionage with a deep exploration of the human soul quite like le Carre. I hope that in some way we can pay homage to his uneasy genius in this new exploration. I am thrilled to be working again with Tom Hiddleston, Stephen Garrett and The Ink Factory team, and to be welcoming the brilliant director Georgi Banks-Davies into our ranks.

Vernon Sanders, Head of Television, Amazon MGM Studios, says: We are elated to bring additional seasons of The Night Manager to our Prime Video customers. The combination of terrific source material, the wonderful team at The Ink Factory, a great writer in David Farr, an award-winning director in Georgi Banks-Davies, as well as the talented cast truly make the series the full package. Were excited to be back in business with the BBC and look forward to continuing the shows journey with The Night Manager team.
Five years ago Seven made some major cuts to its travel shows before deciding to reverse that decision after a sponsor backlash.

One of those, Melbourne Weekender, is finally returning to screens with a refreshed cast and ready to explore city hotspots and regional destinations. Such shows are also strategic for branded content.

It will also take on Nines Postcards head to head in a Sunday slot.

The new presenting team includes Nicky Buckley, Gary Mehigan, Bonnie Anderson, Brad Hodge, Jane Bunn, Sonia Marinelli and Abbey Holmes.

Nicky Buckley said: Im excited to be showcasing our beautiful eclectic Melbourne and Victoria and all that it has to offer. Ive found some real gems myself while shooting the series that I never knew existed.

Jane Bunn said: I cant wait to share with you what Ive been up to on Melbourne Weekender. It feels like Im experiencing a new adventure every weekend as I get to peek behind the scenes of some of Melbournes best things to do.

Bonnie Anderson said: I feel proud to be a part of Melbourne Weekender and show off the beautiful city of Melbourne. Meeting new people and having new experiences in this city is always fun and having the opportunity to interview and learn about these places on a deeper level is the best part about being part of the show.

The debut episode of Melbourne Weekender sees Bonnie visit Co.Bake Space, a venue redefining the art of baking and pop up spaces. Sonia offers road trip inspiration with a drive to NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park and Gary tastes the delights of Vietnam in Springvale, home to one of the biggest Vietnamese communities in Melbourne.

Each episode will feature a My Melbourne Weekender segment where familiar locals take a host on a tour of their go-to Melbourne venues. The first episode will see Nicky spend the day with Australian fashion entrepreneur Nadia Bartel, experiencing some of her favourite places for a perfect weekend in Melbourne.

Sunday at 5.30pm on Seven Melbourne
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 11, 2024) - Aftermath Silver Ltd. (TSXV: AAG) (OTCQX: AAGFF) (FSE: FLM1) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the second and final tranche (the "Second Tranche") of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), whereby the Company has completed the issuance of 5,367,573 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.22 per Unit for gross proceeds of $1,180,866.14. The Company has raised aggregate gross proceeds of $3,850,000 through the sale of 17,500,000 Units in the Private Placement.

Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one non-transferable Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable by the holder to acquire one additional Common Share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance at a price of C$0.32 per Common Share.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Private Placement to complete geological, metallurgical and engineering studies at the Company's Berenguela Silver-Copper-Manganese project in southern Peru ("Berenguela") and for general working capital purposes.

A director of the Company (the "Interested Party") purchased or acquired direction or control over a total of 1,656,318 Units as part of the Second Tranche of the Private Placement. The placement to such Interested Party constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the directors of the Company have determined that the Interested Party's participation in the Second Tranche of the Private Placement will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 in reliance on the exemptions set forth in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(b) of MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report 21 days prior to the closing of the Second Tranche of the Private Placement as the details of the participation of the Interested Party had not been confirmed at that time.

In connection with the Second Tranche, the Company issued 70,496 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") and paid commissions of $15,509.16 to certain finders. Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to purchase an additional Common Share at a price of $0.32 for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance.

All securities issued pursuant to the Second Tranche, including the Finder's Warrants, are subject to a hold period expiring on August 12, 2024, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada.

None of the securities sold in connection with the Second Tranche have been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and no such securities may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Agreement for Investor Relations Services

The Company announces that it has entered into an investor relations agreement (the "IR Agreement") with Departure Capital Inc. (the "Consultant"), a Vancouver-based marketing company beneficially owned by Aaron Missere, pursuant to which the Consultant has agreed, to be effective as of April 15, 2024, to provide a social media program for the Company for a term of 3 months.

The Consultant has been engaged to heighten market awareness for the Company through social media channels. In conducting the social media program, the Consultant will create social media posts and engage in interviews with Company management.

The Company will pay the Consultant a cash fee of $10,000 which the Company intends to pay out of its general working capital account.

The Company and the Consultant act at arm's length. The Consultant currently holds (i) 23,000 Common Shares and (iii) 11,500 Warrants with an exercise price of $0.32 expiring on April 2, 2026. The Consultant has no other interest in the Company or its securities, or any right to or intent to acquire such an interest at this time.

Berenguela Project: Background

The Company has an option to acquire a 100% interest in Berenguela through a binding agreement with SSR Mining.

Berenguela hosts a potentially open-pittable silver-copper-manganese Mineral Resource close to Santa Lucia in Puno province, southern Peru.

Silver, copper and manganese have crucial industrial applications in the clean energy and battery spaces. Copper and manganese have been designated critical metals by the US government and the European Union.

The project is less than 6km from road, rail and power lines and 4 hours from Arequipa by sealed road.

Aftermath published a Mineral Resource estimate in March 2023 based on over 300 core and RC holes, which is linked here.

Recent bench-scale metallurgical test work successfully produced commercial battery-grade 99.98% pure manganese sulphate crystals (see news release dated February 29, 2024 linked here.)

Qualified person

Michael Parker, a fellow of the AusIMM and a non-independent director of Aftermath, is a non-independent qualified person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Parker has reviewed the technical content of this news release and consents to the information provided in the form and context in which it appears.

About Aftermath Silver Ltd.

Aftermath Silver Ltd. is a leading Canadian junior exploration company focused on silver, and aims to deliver shareholder value through the discovery, acquisition and development of quality silver projects in stable jurisdictions. Aftermath has developed a pipeline of projects at various stages of advancement. The Company's projects have been selected based on growth and development potential.

Challacollo Silver-Gold project. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Challacollo silver-gold project. A NI 43-101 Mineral Resource was released on December 15, 2020 (available on SEDAR+ and the Company's web page). The Company is currently completing environmental permitting in anticipation of an upcoming drill program.

Cachinal Silver-Gold project. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Cachinal Ag-Au project, located 2.5 hours south of Antofagasta. On September 16, 2020, the Company released a CIM compliant Mineral Resource and accompanying NI 43-101 Technical Report (available on SEDAR+ and on the Company's web page).

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

"Ralph Rushton"

Ralph Rushton

CEO and Director

604-484-7855

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 "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including the completion and anticipated results of planned exploration activities, the anticipated use of proceeds from the Private Placement and receipt of regulatory approvals with respect to the Private Placement. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", 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", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connation thereof.

Such forward-looking information and statements are based on numerous assumptions, including among others, that the Company will use the proceeds of the Private Placement as anticipated, and that the Company will receive regulatory approval with respect to the Private Placement. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate.

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 the risk that the Company will not use the proceeds of the Private Placement as anticipated, that the Company will not receive regulatory approval with respect to the Private Placement, risks relating to the actual results of current exploration activities, availability of capital and financing, general economic, market or business conditions, and regulatory changes.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by 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 forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

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.

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION ONLY IN CANADA AND IS NOT INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES, OR FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION, OR DISTRIBUTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR IN THE UNITED STATES OR IN THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205200
Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara speaks with Reuters during an interview in Tel Aviv

(Reuters) - A group of Myanmar junta troops that retreated from their base in the frontier town of Myawaddy to a bridge along the Thai border were attacked by resistance groups using drones on Friday, according to local media reports.

Myawaddy, a strategically key trading outpost, was wrested from military control by anti-junta forces led by the Karen National Union (KNU) rebel group on Thursday.

Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara told reporters earlier on Friday that no request had been received from the group of fewer than 200 junta soldiers who had retreated to the border to cross over into Thailand.

(Reporting by Reuters staff, writing by Devjyot Ghoshal; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
They met in New Yorks Plaza Hotel in 1970. Heres what happened next

In 1969, Stefano Ripamonti was feeling good about life. He was in his late twenties, working a glamorous job at an Italian high fashion shoe firm. Hed recently married his childhood sweetheart and the newlyweds were settling into an apartment near the Vatican city walls in Rome, Italy.

While their new home had great potential, the couple wanted to renovate the space to their tastes, so they employed an interior architect-slash-designer. This architect subsequently spent a lot of time at the apartment with Stefanos wife  reconfiguring spaces, suggesting paint colors and offering interior design insights.

Meanwhile, Stefano was regularly away on business trips.

One day, Stefano returned from a trip to Accra, Ghana, to find his wife standing in the half-decorated apartment, in tears.

Apparently during my absence, she and the architect had fallen in love, Stefano tells CNN Travel today.

And just like that, she was out of my life, leaving me devastated.

A trip to New York City

Heartbroken, Stefano buried himself in work, and he was subsequently offered a new job with a different Italian shoe company.

Not only did the new role pay almost double, the job also offered Stefano the chance to visit the US for the first time, to attend a shoe convention in New York City.

Stefano had been fascinated with the States since the day American tanks rolled into Rome to liberate the city from the Nazis. Young Stefano and his parents had joined the crowds lining the streets cheering, and then an American soldier jumped down from one of the Sherman tanks to present two-year-old Stefano with a small tin box containing chocolate. Printed on the front of the tin were the words: Made by Curtiss Candy Co. Chicago.

In the years that followed, Stefano treasured this candy box and daydreamed about Chicago  home of delicious candy that not only tasted good, but represented freedom.

To this day, I still have that box, says Stefano.

All of this meant that, for Stefano, nothing could dampen the excitement of his first trip to the US  not even a lingering heartbreak over a broken marriage.

The day after his arrival in the US in February 1970, Stefano dressed in his best suit and strolled into the lobby of New York Citys Plaza Hotel. He hoped to potentially meet some department store buyers, and to soak up the atmosphere of an American institution.

Stefano recalls making himself comfortable on a long upholstered bench in the marble hotel lobby.

As he sat there  people-watching and admiring the grandeur of the space  Stefano became gradually aware of the young woman sitting next to him, who was reading a copy of the New York Times.

When Stefano glanced her way, one word came to mind: radiant.

He wanted to say something, to introduce himself, but he couldnt think of anything to say that didnt seem inane.

Stefano didnt want to bother her  and he was supposed to be networking. Eventually, figuring the elevators were probably a better place to spot potential buyers, Stefano decided to leave the lobby. He was just getting up when the woman lowered her newspaper and smiled at him.

Excuse me, do you have the time? she asked.

Taken aback, Stefano glanced at his watch and realized he still hadnt adjusted it to Eastern Standard Time.

Lets see, I have Italian time on my watch, said Stefano.

Oh, are you from Italy? asked the woman. I was just there this past summer with my sister.

She folded her newspaper to one side. Then, she held out her hand for Stefano to shake, still smiling.

Im Sally, she said. Sally Wilton.

Sally Wilton was a 22-year-old recent college graduate working in Washington D.C. That weekend in February 1970, shed decided to visit New York City on a spontaneous trip away.

I just decided to go to New York on my own  I wanted to see a play, Sally tells CNN Travel.

Unbeknownst to Stefano, Sally had noticed Stefano as soon as he sat down on the bench in the lobby. In fact, the whole time hed been searching for an opportunity to introduce himself, shed been doing the same.

He was dressed impeccably, with a velveteen jacket. I remember it was kind of a dark gold color, recalls Sally. It looked so Italian and so well tailored. I was used to American boys that wore sweatshirts and jeans.

During her college years, Sally had spent a year studying abroad in Leeds, England. This experience had opened her mind to travel and she loved meeting people from different countries and cultures.

Sally told Stefano this over a coffee in the Palm Court, the grand tearoom in the Plaza Hotel. And she mentioned, in passing, that she was born and raised in Chicago.

Stefano couldnt believe his ears. The city had taken on almost mythical proportions in his mind. To be sitting opposite a woman from Chicago was surreal.

Then, Sally casually mentioned her father worked in the candy business.

While Sallys father didnt work for Curtiss Candy  that might have been too bizarre  to Stefano, this connection still felt like a huge coincidence. It felt like fate.

Coffee turned into lunch, which turned into Sally and Stefano spending the afternoon exploring New York together. They realized they shared a love of art, dipping into the Guggenheim and then the Museum of Modern Art.

The whole time, they couldnt stop stealing glances at one another.

Sally looked so radiant and American, with this big beautiful smile, recalls Stefano. She was beautiful, very attractive. But she was also extremely friendly, sparkling, bubbly.

Stefano was this very good-looking, kind of erudite guy, says Sally. It was enchanting for me.

After just that one afternoon, Stefano felt like they kind of fit together right away.

Even if our cultures were so different, the two cultures clashed together in a positive way, he says.

Stefano was still married, albeit separated. And Sally had a boyfriend back in Washington D.C. But despite these other ties, that whole afternoon, there was something between them that was difficult to identify, as Stefano recalls it, but felt special.

Reluctantly, Sally and Stefano said their goodbyes at the end of the day.

I had to go back to my job, and he was supposed to leave New York, recalls Sally. But he said, If you could come back next week, Ill manage to stay the whole week and wait for you. So I did. I went back. I worked all week. Then I flew back the next weekend.

The best weekend of our life

The next weekend was a whirlwind. Sally and Stefano hired a helicopter to fly them across the city. They went dancing at the glittering Rainbow Room, on the 65th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza at the Rockefeller Center. They drank cocktails at the Russian Tea Room. They marveled at the fact theyd crossed into each others lives.

It was the best weekend of our life, says Stefano. We were in love.

On Sunday night, Stefano had to return to Italy, and Sally had to go back to Washington D.C. But this distance  really any other complications  felt immaterial.

It was a big spark that we felt, so everything changed, says Sally.

Sitting in Trader Vics, a since-closed Tiki Bar at the Plaza Hotel, on their last night together, Stefano wrote a promise for Sally on the back of a beer mat: Se sono rose, fioriranno, an Italian phrase meaning if they are roses, they will bloom.

Stefano wrote this Italian phrase on a beer mat in a New York City bar after meeting Sally. - Stefano Ripamonti and Sally Ripamonti

To Stefano, the words resonated  if he and Sally were meant to be together, they would be. Underneath he scribbled the location, New York, and the date: February 6, 1970.

When they said their goodbyes, Sally vowed to come to Rome as soon as she could. A week later, on Valentines Day, a telegram arrived for Stefano:

My sweet friend stop I send you a Valentine kiss stop Arrive Roma in one or two weeks at most stop Details will follow soon.

Moving across the world

This is the telegram Sally sent Stefano before arriving in Rome. - Stefano Ripamonti and Sally Ripamonti

The morning Sally arrived in Rome happened to be the day Stefano was in court finalizing his separation from his wife. There was no divorce in Italy back then  it only came into practice later in 1970  but this day signaled the end of Stefanos broken relationship, and the start of a new chapter.

After the court hearing, Sally and Stefano reunited outside Stefanos apartment. They embraced in the middle of the street, Stefano lifting Sally up in the air and the two of them twirling together.

We were so excited, recalls Stefano. We hugged and kissed for a while in the middle of the street.

Then Stefano showed Sally his Rome apartment for the first time.

The decorator that the wife had fallen in love with did a beautiful job, says Sally. The apartment was gorgeous.

The apartment was situated above a little bar, and Stefano and Sally came to an arrangement with the owner.

Every morning, theyd bring a tray upstairs to our bedroom with cappuccino, fresh fruit, orange juices, says Stefano.

Hed put it right on the bed, every morning, recalls Sally. It was very romantic.

For Sally, this wasnt a quick trip to Rome. She planned to stay indefinitely. Shed quit her job in Washington D.C. and called her parents to tell them shed met the love of her life.

Unfortunately, the circumstances of our meeting sounded markedly less romantic when received over the phone from your daughter in Italy, says Stefano.

Sallys parents were concerned that Stefano was still married  and alarmed that Sally had packed up her life and moved to Rome on the basis of two brief encounters. They decided to fly from Chicago  not just her parents, but her sisters as well  to check in on Sally and suss out Stefano.

Stefano understood this visit had big stakes at play. He decided, as he puts it today, that he needed to do something very impressive for these folks to demolish any suspicions about my character integrity.

Stefanos father worked for the Rome Metropolitan police, heading up the motorized vehicles unit. Stefano started wondering if his father could organize a personal police escort for Sallys family upon their arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport.

My father, unsurprisingly, answered with a resounding no, says Stefano. But it happened that I personally knew a half-dozen motorcycle cops, having grown up with them since I was 12 years old. I talked to the two closest to me and I explained the situation.

The two policemen agreed to Stefanos plan  sort of.

They said they would quote-on-quote happen to be on location and they would do it, recalls Stefano. Nobody would ever know.

So upon landing in Italy, Sallys family zoomed through the Roman traffic, through red lights and busy streets, in a hired limousine, flanked by two policemen on motorcycles.

Stefanos plan worked  Sallys father was impressed.

When we got to the hotel he jumped out of the limo and he hugged me saying it was the most exhilarating experience he could remember, says Stefano.

This moment  teamed with the obvious fact of Sallys happiness  was enough to quell her familys worries.

And then of course they met Stefanos parents, who were wonderful, and his brother and sister, says Sally. It was a great weekend and they all went home happy.

A life in Rome

Sally and Stefano enjoyed going out and socializing. - Stefano Ripamonti and Sally Ripamonti

With Sallys family back in the US, Sally and Stefano started making a life for themselves in Rome. Sally adjusted to the late-night Italian dinner parties and tried to pick up the language  Sally wanted to learn Italian as quickly as possible. It frustrated her when she couldnt fully participate in conversations with Stefanos friends.

The Vietnam War was still going on, I had very strong opinions about it, recalls Sally. Wed all start talking, but I didnt have the words because my Italian was still very broken.

Meanwhile, Sally and Stefano dined at Romes best restaurants most evenings, interspersed with dinners at Stefanos parents house. Neither Sally nor Stefano knew how to cook back them.

One of their favorite restaurants was on the Piazza del Popolo and was also frequented by actor Marcello Mastroianni.

Hed be sitting there with sunglasses on and it was very thrilling, recalls Sally. He was my favorite Italian actor.

Sally quickly fell in love with life in Rome.

We walked all over the Roman ruins. We went walking around the Colosseum, and Stefano was the best tour guide, says Sally. We didnt have any responsibilities really  although he had his work.

By then, Stefano had moved away from the fashion world and was entering the movie business. Hed started a company with an old friend, with the goal of helping distribute and promote American movies in the Italian market.

We put together a little company in a beautiful office, and we signed up as clients 20th Century Fox, United Artists and Walt Disney, says Stefano. So we launched all their movies.

Stefano and his business partner organized press conferences and ferried American actors across Italy. Stefano and Sallys life soon involved hobnobbing with celebrities on the regular  at cocktail parties, premiers, showing actors around Rome.

It was exciting, says Stefano. Exciting and glamorous.

There were new developments in Sally and Stefanos personal life too. They got married, a small church ceremony, with around 25 friends and family cheering them on. Sally took Stefanos last name, becoming Sally Ripamonti.

Afterwards we lunched at Domus Aurea, which overlooked the Colosseum, says Sally, who calls the celebrations very lovely and intimate.

Sally and Stefano also welcomed their first child, a son.

Sally was excited to raise her child in Italy. Italy  at least Sallys Italy  felt more open and so much freer, than the US. Sally and Stefano had a vast group of friends who were open-minded, liberal thinkers. Many of them were gay, and to Sally, there seemed to be more queer acceptance than in early 1970s America.

New opportunities

Here's Sally and Stefano in 1979 in Los Angeles, California. - Stefano Ripamonti and Sally Ripamonti

Sally and Stefano spent five years living in Italy, welcoming another son, before a job opportunity took the young family to the US.

In 1975, Stefano took the business helm at Halston, the forward-thinking American fashion design house whose avant garde designs were storming the fashion world in the 1970s.

Halston is arguably considered still today the greatest fashion designer in the history of American Haute Couture, says Stefano. That association with him changed our life and launched me into an increasingly interesting, challenging and successful career path.

In Chicago, the couple established a rather glamorous social life, to rival the one theyd enjoyed in Rome. They socialized with the big name 1970s artists, actors, musicians and fashion designers.

Sally and Stefano in Las Vegas in 1980. - Stefano Ripamonti and Sally Ripamonti

Meanwhile, Sally and Stefano went on to have two more children, and Sally balanced family life with her passion for painting.

Moving to the US was interesting because the couple saw the tables turn in many ways. When she first arrived in Italy, Sally was sort of clueless about how everything worked  from bills to grocery stores  so Stefano took the lead. In the US, Sally was familiar with the American system and the lifestyle. She started managing the family affairs.

There were other adjustments too.

When it came to making friends  in Italy, I was the star  lAmericana. Suddenly, I was just another American, says Sally, laughing. And he was the Italiano  everybody wanted to meet Stefano.

While Sally enjoyed being closer to her parents and sisters, she found she missed a lot of things about Italy. She and Stefano visited whenever they could.

We went back and forth a million times with the kids, says Sally. They always knew the grandparents in both places.

Sally and Stefano brought up their kids with a sense of openness, and instilled in them a thirst for travel. One of their sons now lives in Thailand, while another of their sons fell in love with his future wife during a period living in Japan. Theyre now married and bringing up kids with Japanese, American and Italian heritage.

Theyre used to this bicultural idea, says Sally of her children. Theyre very open. Our kids have a broad vision.

Life as a pinball machine

Sally and Stefano currently live in San Francisco, California and have exciting plans ahead. - Stefano Ripamonti and Sally Ripamonti

Today, Sally, who is now in her late seventies, and Stefano, who is in his early eighties, live in San Francisco, California, in an apartment overlooking the bay.

Over the past few decades the couple have lived across the US  from New York City to Arizona to Las Vegas, where Stefano worked in the hospitality business.

Stefano retired in 2022, while Sally continues to paint. The couples life revolves around travel, time with family  including their four grandchildren  enjoying their hobbies and spending quality time together.

Stefano says when he looks back on his life, he finds himself thinking about a pinball machine. Theres a randomness to life, he says, you never know what might happen.

Life, especially mine and Sallys, ours, has been absolutely full of unexpected things, he says.

But life is made like that. Opportunities open up  and if you are creative, curious, you grab it and see where it goes.

When Sally and Stefano look back on the moment they met, in the Plaza Hotel lobby in 1970, theyre still struck by the fortuity of their encounter  the idea that if Stefano had gotten up from that bench at the Plaza one second before life would be different, nothing in this story would have happened, as Stefano puts it.

But their overwhelming emotion is a feeling of gratitude, theyre glad they took a huge leap, as Sally describes, embarking on a life together.

Theyre continuing this mantra into the future  later this year, Sally and Stefano plan to relocate back to Italy.

At our age people say, Are you crazy? Youre starting a whole new life, says Sally. We go Yeah, we are crazy.

Its the pinball machine, explains Stefano.

Life is an adventure, says Sally. You have to be willing to always stay open to its challenges and rewards. Nothing much happens if you stay at home.

We both had a sixth sense we were right for each, says Stefano. And we would do it again.

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LS Polls 2024: Options for Muslims in Bihar and Jharkhand

In the five-part series of the voting choices before the Muslims in India, this fourth write-up looks at the political scenario in the states of Bihar and Jharkhand.

Friday April 12, 2024 3:28 PM , Syed Ali Mujtaba

In the five-part series of the voting choices before the Muslims in India, this fourth write-up looks at the political scenario in the states of Bihar and Jharkhand.

There are 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. Of them 34 seats are important for Muslims as 6 are reserved for the Schedule Castes (SCs). In Jharkhand, there are 14 Lok Sabha seats of them 05 are reserved for the SC candidates and 01 for the ST. So for the Muslims, 08 unreserved seats matter in Jharkhand. The two states jointly have 54 Lok Sabha seats.

The executive summary is that unlike the 2019 LS elections, where the BJP had won 39 seats from Bihar and 12 seats in Jharkhand, this time the BJP tally may come down to 19 seats in Bihar and 07 seats in Jharkhand.

In contrast, the RJD-Congress alliance may get 20 seats in Bihar, 07 seats in Jharkhand and a combined tally of 27 seats from the two states will help in shaping up the composition of the lower house of the Parliament

Bihar

Muslim population in Bihar is 17 percent. Kishanganj district tops the list with 68%, Katihar has 43% Araria with 42% and Purnia has 38%. Madhubani - 26%, Darbhanga - 23%, Sitamarhi - 21%, and West Champaran - 21%.

Districts in Bihar with over ten percent of Muslim population are - East Champaran -19%, Bhagalpur -18%, Siwan -18%, Gopalganj - 17%, Supaul - 17%, Sheohar - 16%, Muzaffarpur -15%, Saharsa -14%, Begusarai -13%, Gaya -13%, Banka -12%, Jamui -12%, Nawada -11%, Madhepura - 11%, Aurangabad 11%, Kaimur -10%, Khagaria - 10%, Rohtas - 10%, Samastipur - 10%, Saran - 10%, and Vaishali - 10%.

Districts with less than 10% Muslim population are Jehanabad - 8%, Patna - 8%, Munger - 7.4%, Bhojpur - 7%, Nalanda - 7%, Sheikhpura - 7%, Buxar - 6% and Lakhisarai - 4%.

There is going to be a three-cornered contest in Bihar. The first choice for the Muslims in Bihar may be the RJDCongress alliance calling themselves Mahagathbandhan. In this political formation, the RJD is contesting 26 seats, Congress 9 seats, CPI(ML) 3 seats, and CPI and CPM 01 each.

The second choice for the Muslims is the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) contesting 11 Lok Sabha seats. AIMIM is contesting 4 seats in the Seemanchal region - Purnea, Katihar, Kishanganj, and Araria, and beyond it 7 more seats - Buxar, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Ujiyarpur, Darbhanga, and Karakat.

In 2019, the AIMIM contested 01 LS seat from Kishanganj that it lost to the Congress. But in the 2020 Assembly election, the AIMIM won 05 seats from the Seemanchal region.

Muslim votes in Bihar are split in three directions. One is for the Mahagathbandhan, where there is RJD and Congress. Muslim votes are also split to the NDA because there is JDU and its leader Nitish Kumar holds considerable sway over the Muslim voters.

Then the Muslim votes drift to Asad Owaisi's AIMIM as well. These political preferences of the Muslims in Bihar inadvertently helped the NDA win 39 out of 40 seats in the 2019 LS election.

In the 2024 elections, Muslims have to make their choices clear, where the only criteria should be community above all consideration and vote for the party or alliance to make any impact in the national Parliament.

Thus the only choice before the Muslim is to vote for Mahagathbandhan. If the Muslim votes are polled with this unity of purpose it is certain that the RJDCongress alliance may get 25 seats.

Jharkhand

Jharkhand, a tribal-dominated state, has 14 LS seats of which 06 are reserved constituency. In Jharkhand, the Muslim population is 14.53 percent but political observers feel that the Muslim population is about 18% in Jharkhand.

In seven districts of Jharkhand, there is more than 20% of the Muslim population. These districts are Pakur (35.8%), Sahibganj (34.6%), Godda (22.02%), Giridih (20.8%), Jamtara (20.7%), Lohardaga (20.5%) and Deoghar (20.2%).

Besides, Hazaribag and Dhanbad have 16.2% and 16.08% of Muslim population respectively. Koderma, Garhwa, and Ranchi are among the districts where the Muslim population is more than 14%.

The popular sentiment is, that if Muslims vote cohesively, they can make a big difference in many constituencies in Jharkhand in this election.

There is a straight contest between the Congress and the BJP-led alliance in Jharkhand. The Congress-led INDIA bloc includes JMM, RJD, and CPI(ML). The BJP-led NDA includes the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU). In 2024, the BJP is contesting from 13 seats, while the AJSU from 01.

In the 2019 LS election, the NDA alliance led by the BJP won 12 seats. Its vote share was 56%. In contrast, the Congress and the JMM alliance won 01 seat each despite getting a vote share of 34.58%.

Later, in the Assembly elections, the JMM-Congress alliance trounced the NDA and gained a majority in the state assembly.

The political landscape has changed considerably in Jharkhand after the arrest of Chief Minister Hemant Soren by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) obviously at the behest of the BJP. While the BJP has justified ED action against Soren citing the corruption cases, the JMM has accused the BJP OF attempting to destabilize the opposition parties' governments in non-BJP-ruled states.

In this background, the situation on the ground has given an edge to the Congress-JMM alliance in Jharkhand. It is certain that the tally of the Congress- JMM alliance will increase in the LS polls and this could be 07 seats from the current 02 seats, whereas the NDA performance may come down from 12 to 07 seats in Jharkhand.

Conclusion

What comes out is that on the all-India level, Muslims are electorally uneducated. The motion Community above Everything has not sunk into their system before making their electoral choice.

The reason for the Muslims being politically marginalized in India is that they dont have any electoral knowledge of their political strength at the Parliamentary level or the Assembly level. Therefore the political decline of the Muslims in India is of its own making.

Election after election Muslims have shown their political immaturity and lack of vision or any strategy to face the electoral battlefield. The political parties are cashing on their ignorance and immaturity, and their dim-witted approach to understanding the political complexity of India.

If politics decides the future, Muslims can shape their future in the democratic structure in India. The only thing they lack is, to do thorough mathematical homework to understand the electoral configuration vis-a-vis their position in such political configuration in their constituencies. Their numerical strength is huge enough to turn democracy on its head.

If Muslims can relinquish their local ambitions and raise their vision to have a say in national politics, they can change their destiny in India. If the Indian Muslims can become the captain of their ship and the master of their destiny, they can happily steer their ship in the choppy waters of India and crown themselves to glory.

[Syed Ali Mujtaba is a journalist. He can be contacted at syedalimujtaba2007@gmail.com.]

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"It was wonderful to see so many departments and campuses represented at this year's ARC," CURCA Assistant Director Diogo Pinheiro, an associate professor of sociology, said. "We at CURCA are immensely inspired by all the innovative and engaging research happening at UNG. We are also thankful to all of the mentors who make all of this possible."

Held in the Martha T. Nesbitt Academic Building, the event lasted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and was open to the public.

Of the projects presented, trio Christian Dale, Sabrina Boggs and Naydelin Trejo Martinez earned an honorable mention for social sciences and humanities from their project mentored by Dr. Efren Velazquez entitled "Analyzing Avoidance of Healthcare among Emerging Adults." Dale pitched the project in August to Velazquez, who shared that he is extremely proud of the work these students have produced.

"I'm really excited that they got the honorable mention. They really worked hard on that from the beginning to the end," Velaquez, an associate professor of psychological science, said. "I'm looking forward to publishing it."

The trio is working to publish their research in an undergraduate journal.

UNG alumna Madison Rollins also had an interesting research project titled "Lasers are Cool but Are They Better? A Comparative Analysis of Surveying Techniques." Mentored by Dr. Jacob Bateman McDonald, Rollins earned an environmental spatial analysis degree from UNG in fall 2023.

Rollins shared she loved the work she was able to do in McDonald's class and plans to attend graduate school at the University of Georgia.

"The concentration allowed me to focus on my research and freely map river systems and helped me realize how much I enjoy hydrology work," Rollins said.

Dominique Cunningham and Hasten Veal also presented their project, "The Computational Study of Neurological Binding Affinity of Cocaine," at ARC. Their mentor is Dr. Rosi Gunasinghe, assistant professor of chemistry.

Cunningham, a Buford, Georgia, resident pursuing a degree in biology, shared she was grateful to be a part of the conference.

"ARC was a great experience as it allowed me an opportunity to strengthen my presentation skills," Cunningham said. "It was incredibly gratifying to work dutifully on my research projects for a year and be able to connect with peers and faculty."

In addition, the following awards were awarded during the conference:

Best Paper:

Stephanie McBride, "Protestant Foundations: How Church Formations Exemplified Military School Ideology at North Georgia College and State University until the 1960s" | Mentors: Dr. Ana Pozzi-Harris & Dr. Elissa Ferguson

Honorable Mentions, paper:

Marshall Vandenoever, "The Presidency and Labor: A Policy of Pragmatism" | Mentor: Dr. Erin Bush

Ariana Harvey, "Can Mindful Self-Compassion Lessen the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health?" | Mentor: Dr. Shelley Aikman

Best Poster, Natural Sciences:

Lillie Hayes and Atticus Tomcho, "Elucidating the Effects of Artificial Lighting on African Mammal Behavior" | Mentor: Jessy Patterson

Honorable Mention, Natural Sciences:

Mary Dickens, "Evaluating the Chronological Distribution of Late Pleistocene Fossil bearing Localities in Southeastern North America" | Mentors: Dr. Christopher Seminack, Dr. Alfred J. Mead (GCSU), and Dr. David Patterson

Best Poster, Social Sciences and Humanities:
Dr. Ning Wang, associate professor of finance; Dr. Maryna Murdock, professor of finance; Luke Atwood, a junior pursuing degrees in finance and accounting and CEO of the UNG Investment Club; and Jonathan Howell, a senior pursuing a degree in finance and CEO of the UNG Real Estate Club, presented on the perspective of retail investors.

Atwood, who is from Demorest, Georgia, drew wide praise for how he had researched and then presented information from the retail investor perspective.

"The support of the faculty and staff at UNG has been the biggest game-changer for me," Atwood said. "They're going to help me out, but they also have an expectation that I'm going to do a good job. I'm expected to do well because I have that support."

Kurt Schulzke, J.D., professor of accounting and law; Abby Keener and Troy Harris, students pursuing a Master of Accountancy; and Dustin Ward, a senior pursuing a degree in accounting, presented on materiality, which examines what constitutes a significant impact on a company.

"This issue of materiality and the reasonable investor is a gray area for SEC registrants and retail investors," Keener, who is from Athens, Georgia, said. "It was great to be able to bring it up to the SEC."
HA NOI  Transitioning to a sustainable business model is no longer a fashionable shirt for businesses, but has become a necessary condition for businesses to improve competitiveness, resilience and be able to meet the requirements of international economic integration.

Nguyen Tien Huy, Director General of the Office for Business Sustainable Development (VCCI), made the statement at a business forum on green transition and finance towards net-zero emissions by 2050 held in Ha Noi on Thursday.

The event was jointly held by the Viet Nam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD) under VCCI, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE), and the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA), bringing together hundreds of representatives from ministries, agencies, organisations and businesses.

One of the priorities of VBCSD-VCCI is to develop and operate working groups on green transformation, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and green finance, replicating these models widely and contributing additional policy recommendations to improve the legal framework supporting sustainable business development, Huy added.

Following the renewed commitment of the global community towards Paris alignment at the COP28 Dubai in 2023, along with progressive effort of Viet Nam in steadily implementing the Paris Agreement through key legal frameworks, this business workshop brought together members of key government, business and investment communities for peer-to-peer sharing of the most updated legal regulation on emission reduction, corporate experiences towards net zero, and to discuss concrete opportunities for enabling green transformation in Viet Nam.

Nguyen Tuan Quang, MoNREs Deputy Director of the Department of Climate Change, said that Viet Nam has committed to achieving net-zero emissions at COP 26 and has joined the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).

Viet Nam is dedicated to attracting green financial flows for the development of renewable energy and low-carbon initiatives. To fulfil these commitments, the Government has been actively implementing practical solutions, Quang said.

Viet Nam aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43.5 per cent by 2030 compared to the standard development scenario, with international support. Currently, Viet Nam is executing the Green Growth Strategy and the National Strategy on Climate Change until 2050. Additionally, the implementation plan for the National Power Development Plan VIII and the JETP plan are underway. In the agricultural sector, Viet Nam is rigorously carrying out a project to cultivate one million hectares of high-quality rice, aiming to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Numerous policies are also being revised in this regard.

He added that in order to achieve the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, according to World Banks estimates, Viet Nam need resources amounting to US$386 billion from now until 2040, which is nearly equivalent to one year's GDP. Given this challenge and the available resources, co-operation from the entire political system and the business community is imperative.

Naoki Ikenoya from JICA Vietnam affirmed that the agency will continue its close cooperation with the Vietnamese Government and the private sector to accelerate green transition in the country.

On this occasion, the sides also approved the Support for Planning and Implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions in Viet Nam (SPI-NDC) project.

The forum provided updates on Viet Nams policies regarding greenhouse gas emission reduction, and specific opportunities that would support the countrys green transition.

The speeches presented at the forum highlighted the Vietnamese Governments continuous efforts to create a more favourable policy environment as well as the business circles role in cutting greenhouse gas emissions.  VNS
HCM CITY  Textile and garment businesses are making a green push with development of eco-friendly products adapted to global fashion trends and by meeting the stringent requirements under free trade agreements the country has signed, according to industry insiders.

Fashion Link JSC (Faslink), a pioneer in supplying green materials to the fashion industry since 2008, constantly researches to come up with a variety of sustainable materials for the fashion industry, including yarns made from bamboo, lotus, seashell, coconut, mint, and coffee grounds.

Tran Hoang Phu Xuan, its CEO, said the company has partnered with Singtex, one of the leading providers of eco-friendly functional textiles in Taiwan (China), to produce yarns and fabrics from coffee grounds.

Faslink is the first company in the world to commercialise shirts made from coffee yarns and sells them in the domestic market.

She said this high-tech yarn, made from used plastic bottles and coffee grounds, is environmentally friendly, deodorising, fast drying, and UV-resistant and has many different applications.

She added that more than 40 fashion brands in the domestic market have used this sustainable material to produce millions of products.

Her company has a project in collaboration with Singtex to collect coffee grounds in Viet Nam, she said, pointing out that since Viet Nam is the worlds second largest coffee exporter it could supply a huge amount of this raw material.

Nguyen Thi Tuyet Mai, general secretary of the Viet Nam Textile and Apparel Association, said: Green transformation in the garment and textile industry is mandatory to catch up with commitments under new generation FTAs.

Viet Nam's textile industry has embarked on a transformation since 2018 with the Greening Viet Nams Textile Sector programme. In this  journey, many businesses, including Faslink, have researched and launched environment-friendly fabrics made from lotus, mint, pineapple, and, especially, coffee grounds."

Huge potential market

Xuan cited a recent report by Coherent Market Insights as saying the global sustainable fashion market was worth US$7.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $33.05 billion by 2030, a compounded annual growth rate of 22.9 per cent.

Sustainable fashion encompasses various practices aimed at reducing environmental and social impacts, such as excessive water consumption, pollution, unethical labour practices, and the production of vast amounts of waste.

Rising consumer awareness of environmental sustainability and social responsibility has caused a surge in demand for sustainable fashion alternatives.

Simultaneously, stringent governmental regulations mandating sustainable practices further foster market expansion, according to the report.

While many countries around the world have gone a long way in sustainable fashion, it is still in its infancy in Viet Nam, according to experts.

Traditional clothing production is resource-intensive and contributes to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable fashion brands focus on minimising these impacts by using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste and adopting responsible manufacturing practices, they said.

Pham Chi Nhu, CEO of Coolmate, a Vietnamese menswear brand, said: Sustainable fashion is an inevitable trend. The new generation of consumers, especially Gen Z ones, not only pays attention to design and material when choosing a fashion item but also cares a lot about the products story, especially its sustainability aspect.

He said coffee fabric has the advantages of cooling, quick drying, UV protection, and odor control. It is suitable for making men's clothing and is widely accepted among eco-conscious consumers.

But the prices of sustainable clothing products are admittedly relatively high, making them less accessible to the masses, he said.

He added that coffee grounds fibre is mainly used to make fabrics for formal clothing and not sportswear, reducing customers choices.

Mai said: This is the time for businesses to go green and make the digital transformation. Fashion products nowadays must not only cater to the needs of customers to dress well, but also be close to nature, protect the environment and be safe to users health.

To enable businesses to overcome cost barriers and promote sustainable fashion, she said policymakers need to consider tax incentives for firms involved in collecting and producing recycled and environment-friendly products.  VNS
HA NOI  The Vietnam National Brand Week 2024 will be held nationwide from April 15-21 to raise public awareness of Viet Nam's national brands and promote products recognised as national brands to domestic and international communities.

According to the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETTRADE) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), communication campaigns on Vietnam Brand Day, April 20, will be launched on mass media during the event.

The opening ceremony and international forum on Viet Nam national brand will be held in Ha Noi in the hybrid format, along with an exhibition spotlighting achievements of national brands, the agency said.

Established in 2003, the Vietnam National Brand Programme is expected to promote Viet Nam as a producer of high-quality goods and services and enhancing competitiveness for Vietnamese businesses in domestic and international markets, it added.

According to brand evaluation consultancy Brand Finance, Viet Nam brand value has increased to US$431 billion to rank 33rd in 2022 from $319 billion in 2019. The country climbed one place to 32nd in 2023.

A report on the implementation of the Vietnam National Brand Programme 2023 by the MoIT showed that Viet Nam continued to be a spotlight in the worlds brand development map, posting the fastest growth rate of 102 per cent in the 2019-23 period.

The brand value of Vietnamese businesses also increased strongly along with the growth of the nation brands.

While brands of Vietnamese businesses were absent in the rankings of international organisations in early 2000s, the total value of the countrys top 50 brands increased by 36 per cent to $36.6 billion in 2022, it said.  VNS
KUNMING  Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong inh Hue hosted receptions for leaders of several Chinese corporations in Kunming City, Yunnan Province, on Friday as part of his official visit to China.

Receiving Chairman of Sunwah Group Jonathan Choi, the top legislator spoke highly of the group's US$5-billion investment in Viet Nam, and welcomed the group to increase its presence in the country, especially at industrial parks in Lao Cai Province.

According to Hue, transport connectivity between Vietnamese localities and Yunnan province, including the Lao Cai-Ha Noi-Hai Phong route, has a strategic role for both nations.

Viet Nams northern provinces and Yunnan boast huge potential to work together in construction of cross-border bridges and smart border gates as well as in enhancing trade exchange via official channels, he said, expressing his hope that Sunwah will promote cooperation between Vietnamese and Chinese localities and study to bolster trilateral cooperation in the transfer of advanced technologies to improve capacity to connect value chains.

Choi, for his part, said the group wants to expand investment in infrastructure development, science-technology and hi-tech sectors in Viet Nam.

It is building an innovation centre at the Viet Nam National University, Ha Noi, and co-operating with the National Innovation Centre to develop another one, he said, stressing the group also wishes to cooperate with Vietnamese northern localities, especially Lao Cai.

In a reception for leaders of Yunnan Provincial Energy Investment Group Co Ltd (YEIG), Hue hailed the companys capacity in ensuring sufficient energy for Yunnan, suggesting the YEIG engage in clean energy projects in Viet Nam.

He laid stress on cooperation to build smart border gates to speed up customs clearance procedures, and said he hopes that enterprises of the two countries will enhance investments in trade, investment and production.

The Vietnamese National Assembly stands ready to create favourable conditions for enterprises with sound capacity to make long-term investment in Viet Nam, he said.

Representatives from the group said that YEIG, the only corporation in energy in Yunnan, specialises in energy, logistics and green energy, and wants to step up co-operation with Vietnamese partners in logistics.

Meeting with General Director of Yunnan post company (under Chinas Post Group Co Ltd) Yan Ming, Hue commended the companys co-operation with Vietnamese partners, helping promote transportation of goods, parcels and postal items between the two countries.

As e-commerce and cross-border transactions are an inevitable trend, Hue recommended that the Yunnan firm enhance co-operation with Vietnamese postal firms in value chain, logistics and trade activities, noting that Viet Nam is an important gate to Southeast Asia for China, so the company should seize the opportunity.

Yan Ming, for his part, held that both sides hold huge potential to develop postal co-operation, contributing to developing bilateral trade and popularising Vietnamese goods in China.

Welcoming Chairman of Dalian Locomotive and Rolling Stock Co Ltd under China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) Sun Rongkun, Hue highlighted high demand for railway investment in Viet Nam, expressing his hope that Dalian will join hands with competent authorities of the two countries to carry out the Lao Cai  Ha Noi  Hai Phong, Mong Cai  Ha Long  Hai Phong and Ha Noi  ong ang railway projects.

He suggested the Chinese firm share experience, techniques and technologies in locomotive and rolling stock with Viet Nam.

Sun Rongkun said his company wants to share experience in the field with Viet Nam, helping the country modernise its railway system, adding the company holds strengths in techniques and state-of-the-art technologies.  VNS
HA NOI  The Land Law (revised), which expands land use rights for overseas Vietnamese (OVs) and Vietnamese citizens residing abroad, is expected to boost the domestic real estate market.

Lieu Nguyen, global ambassador to Viet Nam, Cambodia and Indonesia from the US National Association of Realtors, said the law will help OVs and foreign investors feel secure about investing in the market.

Many elderly Vietnamese in the US share the wish to live in their homeland after retirement and purchase property there, said Lieu, who works for Westgate Realty Group of the US.

She proposed Viet Nam implement home resort projects to serve not only OVs, but also retired US and Japanese people who want to reside in the Southeast Asian nation, adding that projects should include medical and other services for the elderly.

Lieu also held that the law will help spur the domestic real estate market as well as Viet Nams tourism and economy.

Pham Ngoc Chu, vice chairman of the Global Vietnamese Business Association and chairman of the Vietnamese Business Association in Hungary, affirmed that businesses in Europe strongly support the law as it ensures equality between OVs and Vietnamese businesses and those living in the homeland in buying, selling, transferring and inheriting land use rights and houses in Viet Nam.

This will encourage Vietnamese citizens and businesses abroad to pour more investment in the homeland in all fields, he added.

The Land Law (revised) passed in January by the National Assembly (NA) is a huge step forward that demonstrates the attention of the Party, the State, the Government, and the NA in protecting the rights of overseas Vietnamese (OVs) and Vietnamese citizens residing abroad, according to Dr. Phan Bich Thien, member of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and Chairwoman of the Vietnamese Women's Association in Hungary.

During the process of amending the land law, OVs themselves participated many times in conferences and seminars to collect opinions and recommendations on issues related to their rights and responsibilities, Thien said.

In the revised law, Vietnamese nationals residing abroad are completely equal to those living in the homeland in having the right to use land and own houses, she stressed, adding that this encourages them to pour more investment in real estate market in the homeland.

The investment to buy houses and land use rights not only brings benefits to OVs but also helps increase the source of overseas remittances to the homeland, contributing to the country's development.

Thien expressed her hope that the NA and the Government will issue decrees and instructions to facilitate the implementation of the law.

She also proposed several issues related to implementing contracts of buying, selling, transferring and inheriting land use rights, saying that it is necessary to simplify relevant administrative procedures to make it easier for OVs to own houses in Viet Nam.

In the context of the idle real estate market as the supply is abundant, the revised land law is hoped to contribute to stimulating the demand from OVs, thus making the Vietnamese real estate market brighter and more bustling in the coming time, she went on.

With 16 chapters and 260 articles, the revised Land Law, passed at the 15th NAs 5th extraordinary session in January 2024, will come into force from January 1, 2025, except for some particular articles.  VNS
HA NOI  The Viet Nams National Assembly (NA) stands ready to support cooperation between Vietnamese localities and Chinas Yunnan province, NA Chairman Vuong inh Hue affirmed at a law and policy forum held in Kunming city on Friday as part of his visit to the neighbouring country.

The forum on laws and policies to promote trade and investment ties between Viet Nam and China was the second of its kind held within the Vietnamese legislative leaders six-day official visit, following the first in Shanghai.

Held in the border province of Yunnan, it saw the attendance of many Vietnamese and Chinese officials, and more than 450 representatives from businesses of the two countries.

It offered an opportunity for the two sides to exchange views on new cooperation trends, opportunities and solutions to reform the investment environment in each country, and raise proposals to improve cooperation efficiency.

In his remarks, NA Chairman Hue stressed that Viet Nam attaches special importance to collaboration with border localities, including Yunnan, in its relations with China, and valued the fruitful cooperation between Yunnan and Vietnamese localities, particularly those in the northern border region.

The two sides boast many favourable conditions like the system of border gates, and share the wish to boost bilateral trade, the leader said, noting that to further tap both sides potential and strengths, they should speed up strategic connectivity and quickly implement cooperation documents signed during the recent visit to Viet Nam by Party General Secretary and President of China Xi Jinping.

Hue particularly mentioned the plan on cooperation in promoting connectivity between the Two Corridors, One Belt framework and the Belt and Road initiative, the agreement and protocol on the construction of a road bridge across the Red River in the Bat Xat (Viet Nam) - Ba Sa (China) border area, and the 2023-26 action plan for the implementation of the memorandum of understanding between the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade and Yunnans authorities on enhancing economic and trade cooperation, and other memoranda of understanding regarding the railway sector.

The two sides should soon agree on a plan to connect the railway section between Viet Nams Lao Cai station and Chinas Hekou North station, Hue said.

The NA Chairman stressed that those cooperation projects will facilitate trade and investment exchanges between the two countries, and between Lao Cai and Yunnan.

According to him, businesses from Yunnan, with the strengths in capital, technology and administration experience, have advantages when investing in Viet Nam in such spheres as processing-manufacturing, high-tech agriculture, bio-industry, green economy, digital economy, circular economy, knowledge economy, transport infrastructure, highways, and high-speed and urban railway.

The NA Chairman asked relevant agencies of both sides to create a favourable environment for export, import and business activities of firms in the region, and pledged that the Vietnamese legislature has and will always accompany the entire political system to issue suitable policies and build a transparent, equal and comprehensive legal framework for foreign investors, including those from China.

Speaking at the forum, Vice Chairman of the Yunnan provincial government Liu Yong expressed his belief that the forum will help reinforce trust and open up new cooperation opportunities in economy, trade and investment between Yunnan and Vietnamese localities.

The economic and trade cooperation between Yunnan and Vietnamese localities has been thriving on the foundation of the political trust between leaders of the two Parties and countries, as well as the friendship between residents, he said.

Yunnan will step up the mutually beneficial collaboration, especially in the areas of its strengths and Vietnamese localities needs, the official affirmed.

On this occasion, NA Chairman Hue and other delegates witnessed the exchange of cooperation documents between the two countries enterprises, covering aviation, supply chain finance, and robot design and manufacturing, among others.

Within the framework of the top legislators visit to China, national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines signed memoranda of understanding with Chinese partners with a total value of US$438 million.  VNS
HCM CITY  Vietnam International Sourcing 2024, a series of events meant to help Vietnamese firms deeper penetrate into global production and supply chains, will be held in HCM City from June 6 to 8, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Ta Hoang Linh, director of the ministrys European-American Market Department, said the ministry successfully organized the inaugural event last year, attracting much attention from domestic manufacturers and exporters and distributors and importers from many other countries.

Its success brought a new perspective to global wholesalers and retailers about the supply capacity of Vietnamese enterprises, he said.

Viet Nam has become a major global manufacturing hub capable of supplying a wide range of products at competitive prices and with improving quality, and ensuring sustainable supply. Vietnamese firms are also increasingly advancing their supply capacity.

Besides, after the COVID-19 pandemic and amid current geopolitical - economic uncertainties, many enterprises and retail/wholesale networks are stepping up diversification to ensure supply chain sustainability, and Viet Nam has been chosen as a strategic destination in their global supply chains, he said.

This year Viet Nam International Sourcing, which includes the Export Forum 2024, workshops, business matching activities, and Vietnam International Sourcing Expo, will feature 500 businesses from different areas in the international supply chain, with a focus on five major industries: food and drinks; garments, textiles, and fashion accessories; shoes, bags, luggage, and accessories; sportswear and equipment; and household goods and home decor, he said.

He added that it has received unprecedented participation from leading global distribution and sourcing companies such as Aeon and Uniqlo (Japan); Walmart, Amazon and Safeway (USA); Falabella (Chile); Carrefour and Decathlon (France); Central Group (Thailand); Coppel (Mexico); IKEA (Sweden); and LuLu (UAE).

To he held at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre, it expects to welcome 10,000 visitors in 300 delegations from 30 countries and territories, he said.

The organising committee would coordinate with several localities to send international sourcing teams to visit them, he said.

Paul Le, vice president of Central Retail Group, praised last years event, saying it played an important role for Central Retail in sourcing products. Some 95 per cent of goods sold at Central Retails supermarkets in Viet Nam are Vietnamese, he said.

The group hoped to find more Vietnamese products to sell through its network and export at Viet Nam International Sourcing 2024, he added.

Yuichiro Shiotani, director of Aeon TopValu Vietnam, said his company has stores in 17 countries and purchases goods in 48.

Viet Nam is the market that Aeon TopValu focuses on the most for importing goods and developing products.

The export of Vietnamese goods through Aeon has doubled since 2017, and it hopes to reach US$1 billion by 2025.

Thanks to the 2023 event his company connected with buyers from Hong Kong, and Malaysia and exports Vietnamese fresh bananas, dragon fruit garments to Hong Kong, he added.

Mirash Basheer, director of May Exports Vietnam Company, a division of Lulu Group, the largest retail chain in the Middle East,, said the company is looking for sources for goods such as banana and coffee to export to the Middle East.

It also wants to expand its business in Viet Nam, he said.

Nguyen uc Trong from Walmart said Viet Nam is one of the US companys sourcing hubs in Asia.

Some 500 companies in Viet Nam are supplying goods to Walmart and the number is expected to increase, he added.

Sai Thi Thu Thuy at the Vietnamese trade office in Chile, said two leading companies from the South American country would participate in Viet Nam International Sourcing 2024 to look for suppliers of footwear, fashion items, food, and other products.

Luu Van Khang, Vietnamese trade counsellor in Mexico, said a big Mexican company that seeks to import large volumes of automobile tyres, footwear and clothing wants to seek suppliers in Viet Nam.  VNS
NHA TRANG  Viettel Business Solutions Corporation (Viettel Solutions), representing Viettel Group (Viettel), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel) to collaborate on deploying the Viet Nam - Singapore Cable System submarine cable system (VTS) directly connecting Viet Nam and Singapore.

This marks a significant milestone for Viettel in its efforts to implement the Development Strategy of Viet Nam's International Optical Cable System by 2030, vision to 2035 of the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC). With the goal of becoming a regional data centre (Digital Hub), Viet Nam's international optical cables are identified as a critical component of the digital infrastructure that must be invested first in to ensure Viet Nam's international connectivity with super-large capacity, ultra-wide bandwidth, sustainability, greenness, intelligence, openness and security to promote the national's digital transformation, digital economy, digital society and international integration.

Under the agreement, both parties plan to deploy the submarine cable system having its trunk to connect Viet Nam to Singapore (VTS cable) with a configuration of 08 fibre pairs (08FP), using the most advanced wavelength division multiplexing technology available today. The main trunk landing station is in Vietnam (managed by Viettel) and Singapore (managed by Singtel). Additionally, the VTS cable is expected to have branch landing stations in Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia. The VTS cable is scheduled to be operational in the second quarter of 2027.

Thus, VTS will become the first cable jointly established by the two largest operators in Viet Nam and Singapore, promising to be the shortest cable directly connecting Viet Nam to the largest Digital Hub in Asia, Singapore, with the most advanced bandwidth and technology. The deployment of this cable system is in line with Viet Nam's strategy for developing its international optical cable system by 2030, with a vision to 2035. When put into operation, the cable will add hundreds of Tbps to Viettel's total international connectivity capacity, contributing to providing a large amount of high-speed capacity, opening up a new connection direction to the South, and enhancing the redundancy and security of Viettel's international connection infrastructure.

Nguyen Manh Ho, General Director of Viettel Solutions, said: Through investing in the VTS submarine cable project, Viettel affirms its pioneering role in accompanying the Government in building and developing digital infrastructure in Viet Nam, promoting comprehensive digital transformation, meeting the demand for high-speed data transmission, efficiently utilising 4.0 technologies, and ensuring information security of national communication.

Ooi Seng Keat, VP, Digital Infrastructure & Services of Singtel said: Viet Nam is one of the worlds fastest growing digital economies in Southeast Asia with enterprises and consumers adopting new technologies such as artificial intelligence and data-intensive applications. The construction of the VTS cable will support this increasing demand for higher-bandwidth and lower-latency connectivity. We look forward to partnering with Viettel to support Viet Nams and the regions digital and economic growth ambitions.

According to this strategy, by 2030, Viet Nam needs to increase the total number of submarine cables to a minimum of 15 ones with a total capacity of at least 334 Tbps, of which there should be at least 02 submarine cable systems established by Viet Nam going into operation, with priority given to short routes directly connecting to major Digital Hubs in the Asia region. Furthermore, the submarine cable system should be deployed evenly in all three directions: connecting to the North of the East Sea; connecting to the South of the East Sea; connecting to the Southern sea area.

Recognising its role, Viettel has closely followed the strategic direction of submarine cables set by the MIC to develop and propose the implementation of submarine cable projects with a vision to 2030, aiming to meet the capacity needs, ensure safe connection for Viettel's network in all circumstances in particular, and ensure national information security in general. Among these projects, the Viet Nam - Singapore Cable System (VTS) is a key target for Viettel.

With investment in and ownership of new submarine cables, Viettel expects to play a significant role as a crucial link in the digital infrastructure and international and regional data transmission infrastructure, deploying international Internet connection applications requiring high-speed connection such as: 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), Automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (AR/VR). Additionally, Viettel will ensure the safety and redundancy of its network, ensuring the quality of internet services and other international connection services, as well as national information security.

Prior to this, Viettel announced the investment in Asia Direct Cable (ADC), the largest bandwidth cable system in Viet Nam, with connections to all three largest IP Hubs in Asia (Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore), and Viettel owns the landing station of this cable in Quy Nhon. Viettel is also the largest investor in The Asia Link Cable (ALC), connecting to the two main IP Hubs in Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore), and owns the landing station of this cable in a Nang.  VNS
HCM CITY - A training programme for developing tourism human resources for Kon Tum province in 2024 in HCM City was launched on April 10, where 19 students in Kon Tum are sponsored with free scholarships to study tourism services and specialised training courses in tourism in the city.

After six months of training, these students will return to their hometowns to develop the tourism industry for the province.

These students were selected and introduced by the People's Committee of ak Ha District and the People's Committee of Tu Mo Rong District to provide tourism human resources for the province.

These students will study in a professional tourism environment in HCM City, sponsored for free by the Young Entrepreneurs Tourism Club of Viet Nam.

According to Vo Trung Manh, chairman of the People's Committee of Tu Mo Rong, tourism is identified as one of the directions to improve the lives of the Xo ang ethnic people locally.

However, due to limitations in human resources and technical infrastructure, the tourism activities in the district have not developed to their full potential and lack professionalism.

The district hopes that after the training course, the students returning to their hometowns can work in tourism more professionally, while also helping the ethnic people develop tourism in a more organised manner, serve tourists better and enhance the quality of human resources and tourism competitiveness.

Tu Mo Rong district is focusing on developing a comprehensive tourism development plan with support and suggestions from many units, departments and the Tourism General Department.

In the tourism development plan, the province also integrates the potential and strengths of the locality such as programmes, projects related to Ngoc Linh ginseng, ecotourism, community tourism, and indigenous culture.

According to the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Kon Tum, the entire province is currently licensing and managing operations for five tourism travel service businesses, alongside with managing and issuing 29 tour guide cards, including 14 international tour guide cards, 9 domestic tour guide cards and 6 guide cards for local attractions.

So far, 12 provincial-level tourist spots have been recognised, and many other potential tourist spots and areas are being reviewed for addition.

Tourism development activities in the province are being strongly promoted, leading to an increasing demand for human resources in the area.

To improve the quality of tourism human resources, Kon Tum is also enhancing training and developing tourism human resources of the province through various forms, with a focus on practical skills and experience. - VNS
HCM CITY  The Viet Nam National Administration of Tourism, in collaboration with the HCM City Department of Tourism, provided on April 11 details about the activities at the 18th International Travel Expo HCM City (ITE HCMC 2024) scheduled for September.

According to Ms. Bui Thi Ngoc Hieu, Deputy Director of the HCM City Department of Tourism, this year's ITE HCMC is organised with a series of diverse and prominent activities.

As the only travel expo in Viet Nam with an international buyer programme, ITE HCMC 2024 is expected to attract 220 international buyers from 40 countries and territories.

Applying technology, ITE HCMC 2024 will be organised in a hybrid format, combining physical exhibitions with an online presence. In addition to traditional exhibitions at the Sai Gon Exhibition and Convention Centre, there will be 2D online virtual booths.

The 2D online booths provide comprehensive information and images of exhibitors' products and services with various standout features such as live chat, email communication, and appointment scheduling, which facilitate international buyers and exhibitors in finding suitable partners.

According to information from the organisers, ITE HCMC 2024 is expected to attract over 500 exhibitors and brands. The expo anticipates facilitating 10,000 business meetings, providing opportunities for direct interaction between international and Vietnamese travel businesses.

The expo will feature seminars, conferences, and specialised forums, with a highlight being the high-level Tourism Forum themed "Sustainable Tourism, Shaping the Future."

According to Ms. Hieu, previously, visitors to HCM City could explore the inner-city products in just a day or half a day, but now it takes three days to fully experience them.

The city has also developed many products connecting various destinations to form a product chain, ensuring that when visitors come to the city, they stay for at least three days.

The event is scheduled to take place from September 5 to 7, within the framework of the ongoing Viet Nam International Travel Mart (VITM).  VNS
MANILA  Mainit po talaga (Its really hot).

This was how teachers described the intensity of heat they have experienced in recent days, especially with the heat index, or the level of discomfort a person experiences because of the combined effects of temperature and air humidity, reaching extremely high levels.

According to data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the heat index hit 46C in Daet, Camarines Norte on Sunday, Feb. 7. The day before, the highest level was recorded in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, with the heat index reaching 44C.

This prompted the Department of Education (DepEd) to reiterate its Department Order No. 037, which was released in 2022, saying that in light of severe heat, school officials have the discretion to suspend in-person classes and shift to alternative modes.

As teachers told INQUIRER.net, even with four, or even more electric fans, the heat is really intolerable and is already affecting learning, especially in classrooms where 30 to 40 students are cramped.

I have a class of 16, and even if we already have four electric fans inside our classroom, they are still complaining about the extreme heat, so imagine the struggle in a classroom with 30 or more students, said Mae (not her real name), a teacher in Nueva Ecija, where the heat index was also high.

Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo pointed out on Wednesday, April 3, that classrooms in the Philippines are not weather-resistant, saying in Filipino that the classrooms cannot handle the heat because they were not designed as heat-resistant.

All over the Philippines, classroom construction is being implemented by the DepEd and the Department of Public Works and Highways, with private institutions executing the contract with the government.

Not ideal for PH

As stressed by Gerard Lico, an architect, most of the current classrooms that were built based on the standard design set by the DepEd and DPWH are not ideal for a tropical country, like the Philippines, where the climate is hot to warm and moist all year.

Now, classrooms are already made of concrete, with ceilings that are really low, he told INQUIRER.net in Filipino, stressing that with a low ceiling and a lack of large windows, cross ventilation is next to impossible.

Unlike wood, concrete absorbs and retains heat, so as Lico said, when walls are built, there should be insulation in between, but because hollow blocks are not that expensive, it is the only material being mostly used now. This, however, is a failure when it comes to energy efficiency and comfort.

Concrete is really hot, especially in a tropical climate, he said.

Based on the report How concrete, asphalt and urban heat increase misery of heat waves that was published by Reuters last year, construction materials like asphalt or concrete are capable of absorbing as much as 95 percent of the suns energy, which is then radiated back into the surrounding atmosphere.

Lico pointed out the need for equal inlet and outlet of air because if there is none, even if one side of the classroom has an immense window opening, if there is no outlet, the window would be useless, he said. Cross ventilation wont happen.

He said that in a tropical climate, like what the Philippines has, windows, in some cases, are not enough: Thats why in old classrooms, like the ones at the Palma Hall of the University of the Philippines Diliman, there is a calado between the wall and ceiling.

Dangerous heat

As Rep. France Castro (ACT Teachers) said, the rising heat index should serve as a wake-up call to prioritize the construction of additional classrooms and the improvement of ventilation systems in our schools.

Based on data from Pagasa, a heat index of 52C and beyond is already considered extremely dangerous, which means that heat stroke is imminent.

It said symptoms of heat-related illnesses include heavy sweating, exhaustion, dizziness, blackout, weak but fast pulse, feeling of nausea, and vomiting, mostly as a result of prolonged exposure to heat, exhausting activities in warm weather, weak immune system, high humidity, obesity, chronic alcoholism, and even age (for the elderly and infants).

As Castro said in a statement on Tuesday, April 2, it is not fair for learners and teachers to suffer in unbearable conditions that directly affect their health, wellbeing, and academic performance.

We cannot delay the provision of adequate infrastructure any longer. It is the responsibility of the government, particularly the DepEd, to prioritize the well-being and learning conditions of our students and teachers, Castro said.

Investing in the construction of more classrooms and improving ventilation systems is an investment in the future of our nation, she stressed.

Based on a survey conducted by the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, 77 percent of instructors in Metro Manila said they cannot bear the heat experienced in schools. Only 22.8 percent said that the heat they feel is moderate.

Looking back

It was pointed out by Lico that right now, the construction of our classrooms has to be sustainable, saying that we should rethink the design of our classrooms by reflecting on what was studied by William Parsons when he designed the Gabaldon Schoolhouses.

Parsons was the supervising architect for the construction of Gabaldons, which originated from Act. No. 1801, a legislation written by Isauro Gabaldon of the Philippine Assembly in 1907.

As the DepEd said, Parsons integrated elements from the bahay kubo and bahay na bato that are good for a tropical climate.

Ken Enriquez, an architect, said in a column that the Gabaldons are tropical architecture principles built as structure, with the characteristics of the bahay kubo and bahay na bato evident in the 79-meter classrooms that Parsons designed.

Similar to the two prominent Filipino houses, the Gabaldons are elevated at 1.2 meters from the ground supported with either wooden or concrete posts. This was done not only to isolate the living space from the thermal heat of the ground, but also to avoid flooding in the interiors, he said.

Gabaldons usually have a wooden floor, with small gaps in between the wood planks to allow better air circulation for the interiors. The roof is made of lightweight nipa or galvanized iron with deep overhangs for sun shade and rain protection.

Large swing-out capiz shell inlay windows run along the stretch of the single-loaded open corridor. Ventanillas or transom windows were then used to ensure that cross ventilation is achieved and natural lighting reaches the inside, he said.

To date, there are 2,045 Gabaldon Schoolhouses that still exist and are treated as important structures, the DepEd said. Back in 2019, then-President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11194, or the Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation Act.

Not that expensive

As pointed out by Lico, we just have to learn what was practiced before in the vernacular tradition, stressing that even the use of traditional materials, like wood, can mitigate the heat that we are experiencing within an enclosed environment.

Resilience can be learned by recovering the traditional knowledge that we have kasi it has existed for centuries. There are really ways to redesign our classrooms, but we should reflect on the traditional building methods that we have learned, he said.

He said, too, that the orientation of buildings, especially schools, should be east-west, so that there would be no direct sun exposure.

Especially when glasses are used for windows, which is the case now, he said the heat would really be intense when these are exposed directly to the sun. The orientation of buildings is that the longest side should be in the east-west, Lico said. Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
HA NOI  There will be more new tours linking Ninh Binh - Thanh Hoa  Nghe An - Ha Tinh provinces in an effort to create high quality tourism products at competitive prices.

That's the conclusion at a tourism promotion conference titled "One Journey - Countless Experiences" took place in Ha Noi on April 11.

This is the third time these four provinces have jointly organised a tourism promotion conference on the sidelines of the Vietnam International Tourism Fair (VITM).

Through the conference, the four provinces hope to introduce and promote the image of their destinations, markets, new tourism products, services and tourism events in 2024 to attract tourists.

The aim is to build the tourism image of the four provinces through linking everything into one journey with many experiences.

Speaking at the opening of the conference, Director of Ninh Binh Provincial Department of Tourism Bui Van Manh shared: "Ninh Binh - Thanh Hoa  Nghe An - Ha Tinh is an area with a special geographical location in the Northern and North Central region, a bridge between Ha Noi and the North Central region, between the Northwest and the Red River Delta, between the central provinces and neighboring countries of Laos and Thailand.

This place has rich and diverse natural resources, converging all types of tourism with many valuable historical and cultural relics, famous and beautiful natural landscapes, friendly and hospitable people. These provinces are safe and attractive destinations that attract domestic and international tourists."

In recent years, tourism development cooperation activities among the four provinces of Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Ha Tinh have received increasing attention, especially their coordination in promoting distinct tourism products as well as new tourism products of four provinces through specific activities such as: coordinating organisation of tourism promotion conferences; welcoming provincial Famtrip delegations to survey four provinces; exchanging information in State management work and; supporting the dissemination of tourism promotion information.

At the conference, the attending delegates visited the display space of publications and distinct products of the four provinces and watched a video presentation about the tourism potential and products of the four provinces.

At the same time, representatives of the four provinces also introduced new tourism products, outstanding events and distinct tourism activities in 2024 while exchanging and discussing together to come up with solutions that help the tourism industry develop stronger in the future.

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Director of Vietnam National Tourism Administration Pham Van Thuy highly appreciated the results that the tourism industry of the four provinces has achieved. In particular, the tourism promotion conference is a good opportunity for provinces to introduce and promote attractive tourism destinations, products and services to serve domestic and foreign tourists during the peak season of the upcoming summer.

The Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Tourism Administration proposed that the provinces need to coordinate and work towards the goal of building common tourism products.

Pay special attention to creating unique, quality, competitive, and attractive inter-local product chains for tourists. Continue to share information, experiences, and knowledge in tourism management to retain visitors and create long-term tourism products. In addition, local tourism associations need to coordinate, link, accompany and orient businesses and work with state management agencies to develop policies for tourism development.  VNS
DHAKA  The future of the Himalayan region is linked inextricably with three Cs: Climate, Connectivity, and Community. Of these, perhaps the climate cluster is primus inter pares among them; the other two feed into it as they walk hand in hand, weaving into our lives and existence, and affecting the survivability not only of our planet but also of our own species.

The UN secretary general, during a press conference at the UN in July 2023, famously said, Humanity is in the hot seat Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning The era of global warming has ended; the era of global boiling has arrived The air is unbreathable. The heat is unbearable And the level of fossil fuel profits and climate inaction is unacceptable.

Leaders must lead No more hesitancy. No more excuses. No more waiting for others to move first. There is simply no more time for that.

At COP28 in Dubai, he asserted, We are miles from the goals of the Paris Agreementand minutes to midnight for the 1.5-degree limit We cannot save a burning planet with a firehose of fossil fuels So, allow me to have a message for fossil fuel company leaders: your old road is rapidly ageing. Do not double down on an obsolete business model.

The UN secretary general is perhaps the conscience of humanity, but humanity appears to be paying scant attention to him.

The Hindu Kush Himalaya region is of seminal importance to climatic changes affecting our planet. Stretching as it does 3,500 kilometres across, from China in the east to Afghanistan in the west, it is referred to by climatologists as the worlds Third Pole, because of the vast ice contained there. Together with the oceans, it comprises over 71 percent of Planet Earth. The vast forested areas scattered across our seven continents, the hills and valleys through which rivers flow and which connect the mountains to the oceans, the ice caps of the Arctic, Antarctic, and the Hindu Kush Himalaya comprise one holistic ecosystem that has sustained Planet Earth for millennia, through maintaining an equilibrium between themselves, governing the variations in the climate through a natural process of balancing air flows and precipitation cycles.

The Himalayan glaciers help sustain several major rivers in Asia. These rivers provide nearly two billion people with drinking water and irrigation systems used for farming. Additionally, they hold the potential for harvesting hydropower for millions of people living in South and Southeast Asia. They play a part in regulating the regional climate, as they influence monsoon patterns and help to ensure an ecological balance in the surrounding areas.

ALL scientific data in recent decades point to an alarming decrease in ALL these three ice poles. According to the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalaya are melting at unprecedented rates and could lose up to 75 percent of their volume by the end of the century. Some other estimates project a higher volume of loss. This would result in dangerous flooding and water shortages for nearly two billion people who live downstream of the rivers that originate in the Himalayas, with flash floods and avalanches becoming commonplace events. This would also seriously adversely affect availability of fresh water for at least 240 million people who live in the Himalayan region, as well as 1.65 billion who live downstream of the 12 rivers originating from the Himalayas.

Current adaptation measures have proven to be grossly inadequate. Data reveal that the Mt Everest glaciers have lost 2,000 years of ice in just 30 years, while the Himalayan glaciers have disappeared 65 percent faster since 2010 than in the previous decade. These losses of glaciers, snow, and permafrost are unprecedented and perhaps largely irreversible. Glaciers across the entire Himalayan region will lose 30-50 percent of the volume by 2100 at 1.5 degrees Celsius or 2 degrees Celsius warming above pre-industrial levels. However, glaciers in eastern Himalayas, Nepal and Bhutan will likely lose up to 75 percent at 3 degrees Celsius warming and 80 percent at 4 degrees Celsius warming.

Flows in the regions 12 river basins, including the Ganges, Indus and Mekong, are likely to peak around the mid-century with adverse consequences for the more than 1.6 billion people who depend on these waters. The rise of waters in these rivers from increased glacier melt will not be manifested as a steady flow, but as possibly violent flash floods from bursting of glacier lake dams that store huge quantities of fresh water. In 2022, record high temperatures in March and April in the high peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan resulted in abnormally rapid melting of the Shisper Glacier, creating a lake that swelled and burst through a glacial dam. A torrent of water and debris flooded the valley below, damaging fields and houses, wrecking two power plants, and washing away parts of the main highway and a bridge connecting Pakistan and China. At least 200 glacier lakes are identified as being in a dangerous state and in danger of bursting. However, after the initial deluge following such outbursts, water supplies of rivers will dwindle exponentially thereafter.

The consequences of losing this cryosphere are unimaginably foreboding. According to the World Meteorological Organization, the annual mean global near-surface temperature for each year between 2023 and 2027 is predicted to be between 1.1 degrees Celsius and 1.8 degrees Celsius higher than the 1850-1900 average, skewing snowfall and rainfall patterns increasingly out of sync with seasonality, adversely affecting all life species. There are reports of yaks having died due to a lack of food in India, Nepal and Bhutan, leaving farmers with huge income losses. Other unique species also threatened by adverse changes to the climate of the diverse ecosystems include tropical and subtropical rainforests and temperate coniferous forests. Fourteen species of butterflies have already reportedly become extinct from the Murree Hills of Pakistan, while endemic frog species are among the most impacted by climate change as they experience breeding problems and developmental deformities.

The loss of the Himalayan ice cap has grave consequences, as described above, not only for the people of the Himalayan region, but also for those living in the plains and the deltaic region and the Bay of Bengal as well. It will trigger a cascading set of chain reactions adversely impacting all parameters of human security: water security, food security, health security, habitat security, and livelihood security. At the very local level in Bangladesh, which connects the Himalayan mountains with the Indian Ocean through the Bay of Bengal, our ambitious development plans, such as the Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan 2041 or the even more ambitious Delta Plan 2100, will come crashing down on us, with unimaginable consequences for the country and the region.

While climate change is a global problem, it is increasingly clear that efforts so far toward a global solution, in which every player enthusiastically participates, are not going to happen any time soon. We are all aware that the aeroplane we are on is going to crash into a mountain soon. While many countries are already working desperately to stave off disaster, woefully they all work in silos. Our ready embrace of the Westphalian model of nation-state and state sovereignty with inviolable borders led to our partitioning not only our lands but also the vast ecologically important commons that constitute our shared hydrosphere and natural commons. Most perniciously, it partitioned our very mindsets.

Commons that can only thrive and survive and continue to sustain us are dying because the ecological integrity that had held them together  the mountains, the valleys, the forestry, the wildlife  and kept them healthy for millennia, are now hostage to different versions of resource nationalism. While European Westphalian states, from whom we blindly accepted the model of state sovereignty at our independence, learnt long ago to pool their sovereignty to manage their shared ecosystems, and in the process also arrived at innovative ways of deriving benefits from these commons without undermining their national or cultural integrity, our stubborn reluctance to go that route for fear of ceding sovereignty is actually slowly stifling the life of these ecosystems.

In South Asia, the partition of the subcontinent spawned in us this accursed Partition Syndrome, severing connectivity that used to be the driver of trade, economic development, as well as movement of not only humans, but other species across natural migration borders, and goods and services, ideas and cultural exchanges. It is this same syndrome that keeps us prisoners from engaging in cooperation that would address our development dilemmas and also translate into climate mitigation measures of beneficial consequence for all.

We all need power as fuel for our industrial engines to chug at speed, without hiccups. While we in the region have a vast but latent, untapped reservoir of clean renewable energy that we could transition to very easily if we wanted to, we have all fallen to being heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels, which are now clearly identified as the darkest culprit in global warming, and for which we pay exorbitant costs. Our ambitions are huge, but our quick realisation of those are stymied by an acute shortage of reliable powerand our singular inability, or sheer unwillingness, to work on regional collaborative ventures.

I had once dreamt, and openly and actively espoused, that at least in the Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal (BBIN) sub-region of the subcontinent, we could collaboratively move towards putting in place an interlinked power grid of symbiotic interdependence that would not only be derived from clean, renewable energy, but also impel us on water basin management in a holistic manner beneficial to all. But our movement in that direction has been inordinately long and slow. The recent summit level decision between Nepal and India to identify and upgrade a dedicated grid line in India to connect with Nepali, Bhutanese and Bangladeshi grids is a huge leap forward, but we need to move fast to operationalise it. Questions related to the origin of investment funds for such power projects continue to bedevil this process. They can be overcome by entering into joint venture schemes with other partners, like international development agencies or acceptable private sector, or the countries together forming a joint stock company and raising monies regionally through clean energy bonds.

We must also restore those severed connectivities, to restore trust among the partitioned peoples of the subcontinent. But we must not forget that at the heart of those connectivities are the communities of peoples who populate our lands. We must make them active participants in such activities.

While a global operational solution to our global climate disaster appears to be a stubbornly elusive dream, the myriad local and national solutions that we are striving at can be given greater relevance through synergising those activities in a collaborative manner, through cooperation across communities within the nation states, and then enlarging and expanding them to collaboration between states in the region. The new globalisation has to be a bottom-up, community-level fanning outwards, grassroots-spawned process. The Daily Star/ANN
HA NOI  A range of enticing travel destinations highlighting Malaysia's strengths in eco-tourism are being introduced at the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2024 held in Ha Noi from April 11 to 14.

With the theme of Tourism - Green for Sustainable Development, the event is taking place at the International Center for Exhibition (ICE), emphasising responsible tourism associated with environmental protection for sustainable development.

In line with this theme, the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia) in Vietnam has cooperated with the Embassy of Malaysia in Hanoi, the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts (MTCP) Sarawak, Batik Air, National Association of Private Educational Institutions of Malaysia (NAPEI), Resorts World Genting, ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre and Columbia Leisure to participate in the event.

Tourism Malaysias booth is located at C10-13 at the event and introduces the unique destinations, diverse cultures, and unique natural wonders of Malaysia.

During the four-day event, colorful Malaysia is unveiled through performances of Sarawak Cultural Dance and Sape Performance, fun quiz activities, and Teh Tarik Tea Pulling Art by a Malaysian artisan.

Visitors can experience unique cultural performances of Malaysian culture, taste flavorful cuisine, and participate in activities to learn more about the colorful country.

Nor Hayati Zainuddin, director of Tourism Malaysia in Viet Nam, said VITM 2024 presents a valuable opportunity to promote Malaysia's rich cultural and ecological tourism offerings.

Tourism Malaysia also shares updates on the latest tourism products and destinations, including Sarawak.

Sarawak is the largest state of Malaysia, located on the island of Borneo, also known as the "Land of the Hornbills." These endangered birds are important cultural symbols for the Dayak people.

On April 10, Tourism Malaysia in collaboration with VITM Hanoi 2024 organised the Malaysia Tourism seminar and product updates at the Lotte Hotel Hanoi.

The seminar provided useful information on edu-tourism, foreigner residency schemes, airline promotions, and prominent tourist destinations in Malaysia to travel agencies and media in Ha Noi.

Malaysia expects to welcome 27.3 million foreign tourists this year.  VNS
Professor Tran Xuan Tu, Director of the Institute of Information Technology under Vietnam National University, talks with Vietnamnet.vn online newspaper about the challenges and opportunities the semiconductor industry faces, shedding light on Viet Nam's potential role in this field.

Only a few countries in the world hold the key semiconductor technologies. What makes these technologies so difficult to access, and are there still opportunities for countries like Viet Nam to enter this field?

In the semiconductor industry, no single country can do it all. It's a supply chain, a value chain. Each country will choose its own area of advantage to participate in certain stages. Viet Nam has traditionally been known for its cost-effective labour and abundant workforce. Typically, high-tech companies will deploy assembly plants, packaging in Viet Nam.

With the right investment in skills development and infrastructure, we can also become a hub for chip design. On another front, Viet Nam stands out in terms of its performance in general education and on both national and international examinations.

The semiconductor industry is challenging because the manufacturing process relies heavily on modern technology, with machines requiring high precision. Investing in a large-scale industrial factory could require around US$15 billion. However, aiming for a smaller scale would make competition exceedingly tough due to the high costs involved.

Furthermore, our lack of manufacturing experience makes it difficult to gain the trust of customers to place orders. Chips must undergo rigorous quality checks and meet strict requirements to attract customers.

During the 1980s, Viet Nam embarked on its semiconductor journey with the establishment of the Z181 factory. Fifty years later, we are attempting to re-enter the field once again. Is this interval too lengthy?

Viet Nam had semiconductor manufacturing plants in the 1980s, producing very basic components. During that time, we exported those components abroad.

Now, we are re-engaging in this sector. Whether this endeavour will be a long or short-term success depends on continuous investment in science and technology, research and development to generate new technologies for the future.

Currently, we have suitable human resources in terms of age and background. However, in terms of knowledge, skills and qualifications, we have not fully met all the requirements of the semiconductor industry.

In my opinion, the government needs a specific strategy to further support universities and research institutes in investing more heavily in training and research.

We need mechanisms to attract talented individuals to participate in this field. It's an interdisciplinary domain that demands a strong foundation of thinking, coupled with perseverance and passion, for individuals to successfully engage in it.

Which segments of the global semiconductor supply chain offer opportunities for Vietnamese companies to participate? Is it in design, packaging or the manufacturing of "Made in Vietnam" chips?

The semiconductor industry comprises several key stages, including design, manufacturing, packaging, and testing. Additional aspects are involved in application development based on the circuits produced.

Within this industry, design stands out as the most profitable segment, contributing approximately 52-55 per cent of the overall cost. Manufacturing follows closely, accounting for about 24-25 per cent, while the remaining share is allocated to packaging and testing.

Presently, foreign direct investment (FDI) companies operating in Viet Nam predominantly focus on packaging and testing operations. However, for a sustainable long-term strategy, it's imperative for us to deepen our involvement in the design phase, which offers the highest value.

Viet Nam should prioritise investments in packaging and testing to fulfil the requirements of FDI enterprises. Simultaneously, efforts should be made to cultivate human resources for the design phase, fostering the establishment of startups, design centres and firms. Initially, designs may be tailored to meet foreign orders, paving the way for the development of indigenous products.

In terms of manufacturing technology, which is intricately linked with design, Viet Nam should target mid-range technologies. These technologies align well with applications deployed within the Vietnamese market. However, venturing into newer, advanced technologies poses significant challenges and is constrained by factors such as manufacturing facilities and support tools.

What role does the government need to play in developing the semiconductor industry?

The Ministry of Information and Communications and the Ministry of Science and Technology need specific programmes to support research and development projects in the field of microelectronics. To allocate resources strategically, it's imperative to hone in on specific pathways and applications within microelectronics, such as AI chips, IoT chips, telecommunications chips, and 5G and 6G technologies.

The Ministry of Planning and Investment ought to funnel investments into collaborative laboratories embedded within universities. These labs should be forged through partnerships between academia and industry players.

This is to avoid state investment regulations for businesses related to the WTO.

The symbiotic relationship between businesses and universities, supported by these integrated laboratories, will present higher education institutions with real-world business challenges. As a result, graduating students will be equipped to seamlessly transition into the workforce.

This educational model not only addresses the skill demands of businesses but also enables enterprises to tap into the intellectual wealth harboured within universities. Harnessing this knowledge base, particularly the insights unearthed through academic research, will fortify business operations. It's imperative that we cultivate robust research and training infrastructures to elevate our universities to the leading edge of innovation.

What guidance do you offer to young individuals and startups in Viet Nam venturing into the semiconductor industry?

I believe that for startups in the semiconductor industry, it's crucial to find customers. To achieve that, we need to establish a certain level of capability.

The semiconductor landscape isn't just a single sector; it's a dynamic interplay of industries, applications and hurdles. It's imperative that we fortify our strengths to acquire capabilities, thereby seizing market opportunities, attracting customers and steadily expanding.

For startups, the path to success lies in scaling up to become robust industrial players.

I see the National Innovation Centre (NIC) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment playing a pivotal role in fostering connections. The NIC, in collaboration with other ministries, should showcase its bridging role. Moreover, by facilitating access to design software tools or establishing incubation funds, the NIC can empower businesses.

Recently, the NIC launched the Viet Nam Innovation Challenge Programme 2024. This initiative seeks to recognise and elevate AI solutions and applications, fostering business development and productivity enhancement.

Businesses should eagerly embrace such programs to foster collaboration and cultivate a thriving ecosystem. The semiconductor industry is a collaborative value chain. Alone, we may falter, but together, with NIC's guidance, we can construct a robust ecosystem for semiconductor enterprises.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam on Thursday said it is "extremely disappointed" with the inaccurate, unverified and unfair information contained in the stakeholders' submissions on Viet Nam's human rights for reviews by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs oan Khac Viet, at the regular press briefing held in Ha Noi, has criticised the summary report gathering opinions from about 45 organisations with regard to the human rights situation in the fourth cycle of Viet Nam's UNHRC Universal Periodic Review.

"We are extremely disappointed that despite the full representation of UN agencies in Viet Nam and their long term and comprehensive cooperation with Vietnamese branches, ministries and agencies, the stakeholders' submissions on Viet Nam under the UNHRC Universal Periodic Review has numerous instances of unjustified information and many biased and unfair assessments that do not accurately or fully reflect the real situation, the efforts and achievements of Viet Nam pertaining to protection and promotion of human rights," Viet stressed.

The deputy spokesperson remarked that the drafting of Viet Nam's national report for UPR fourth cycle has been carried out "in a serious and comprehensive manner, having the full participation of relevant parties and the UN agencies in Viet Nam."

However, the drafting of the UN stakeholders' submissions on Viet Nam has not maintained transparency, Viet said, adding that "they are not commensurate with Viet Nam's goodwill cooperation in the development of the national report."

The summary report does not reflect the spirit or reality of cooperation between Viet Nam and the UN, and the priorities agreed on by Viet Nam and the UN development agencies, Viet said.

"We hope that the future cooperation between the UN development agencies in Viet Nam needs to be implemented in accordance with the functions and tasks of relevant agencies as well as Viet Nam's priorities and demands."

The consideration for the fourth cycle reviews for Viet Nam is scheduled to take place on May 7, 2024, at UN headquarters in New York.

Viet Nam-Vatican relations

In response to questions over the ongoing visit by the Vatican's Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, on his first ever trip to Viet Nam, the deputy spokesperson said Viet Nam-Vatican relations have witnessed positive developments as demonstrated by the maintenance of high-level engagements and progress in the negotiations of the Viet Nam-Vatican joint working group and the recent upgrade of the bilateral ties to the status of the residential papal representative in Viet Nam in July 2023.

"At the meetings with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and the working session with Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, the Vatican Secretary has highly valued the multifaceted cooperation with Viet Nam, and the development and contributions of the Catholic Church in Viet Nam to our national construction and growth. Both sides have agreed to continue to maintain effective high-level exchanges and engagements and promote the role of the resident papal representative office in Viet Nam, contributing to further achievements in Viet Nam-Vatican bilateral relations," the diplomat noted.  VNS
YUNNAN  Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong inh Hue received Wang Ning, member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Secretary of the Yunnan provincial Party Committee, and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the provincial People's Congress, in Kunming City on Thursday, as part of the Vietnamese leader's official visit to China.

Hue and Wang expressed their delight at and positively evaluated the development of relations between the two Parties and countries over the past time.

They discussed measures to leverage the potential and strengths of both sides, aiming to further promote cooperative ties between Vietnamese ministries, agencies and localities and Yunnan in the coming time.

Wang praised the existing mechanism for exchange between the five Secretaries of the provincial Party Committees of China and Viet Nam. He announced his intention to chair the mechanisms next meeting in May.

Hue reaffirmed Viet Nam's policy on deepening ties with China and enhancing the traditional neighbourliness, comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and a community with a shared future between the two nations. He pledged support for Vietnamese localities to establish and develop mutually-beneficial partnerships with Chinese provinces, particularly those sharing the borderline with Viet Nam like Yunnan.

The top legislator proposed increasing exchanges between local leaders, along with the effective implementation of existing cooperation agreements between Yunnan and Vietnamese localities. He suggested collaboration in border patrols, counter-terrorism efforts, and crime prevention and combat. Additionally, he advocated for stronger cooperation in key areas like railway connectivity, including Kunming-Lao Cai-Ha Noi-Hai Phong route, tourism, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.

Hue stressed the importance of close coordination in border management and protection in line with three documents on land border and relevant agreements, and properly resolving pending issues and arising matters. He proposed Yunnan continue the preservation of historical locations where President Ho Chi Minh and other Vietnamese revolution leaders had worked.

Highlighting Yunnan's strategic location and natural resources, Wang emphasised efforts to improve railway and road connectivity, expand trade and logistics cooperation, and solidify the province's role as a gateway to Southeast and South Asia, including Viet Nam.

Yunnan treasures its friendship and cooperation with Viet Nam and stands ready to work closely with Vietnamese localities to effectively realise common perceptions of high-ranking leaders of the two nations, as well as those between Yunnan and Vietnamese ministries, agencies and localities, he said.

He added that Yunnan will increase the exchange of all-level delegations, effectively uphold the role of cooperation mechanisms, including those between the Peoples Congress and all-level People's Councils; deepen economic and trade collaboration, encourage Yunnan enterprises to invest in Viet Nam, and facilitate the import of hig-quality Vietnamese agricultural and seafood products.

The province will also enhance cooperation in infrastructure and border gate connectivity, streamline customs procedures, improve customs clearance efficiency, and collaborate in green and modern agriculture, green energy, health care, culture, education and tourism, he said.  VNS
NEW YORK  United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres expressed his impression of Viet Nam's economic growth, at a working session with Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the UN, on Thursday in New York.

The UN chief said he believes that Viet Nam will complete its development goals despite recent challenges in the region.

Giang informed the UN leader of Viet Nam's recent socio-economic development and thanked him for his attention and support to the country.

The two sides exchanged views on emerging regional and international issues.

The diplomat took the occasion to announce Viet Nam's initiative to organise the ASEAN Future Forum in Ha Noi on April 23.

The move comes as a response by ASEAN and regional countries to the Summit of the Future to be held by the UN in September this year, he said, adding that the forum's discussions will provide a foundation for supporting policy-making efforts of ASEAN members and shaping the grouping's vision for the time to come.  VNS
HA NOI  National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue and his entourage arrived in Ha Noi on April 12 afternoon, concluding their official visit to China at the invitation of Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) of China Zhao Leji.

With more than 40 official and numerous sideline events, the visit was a success, fulfilling all set goals. It was the first high-level visit by a Vietnamese Party and State leader since the two countries elevated their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, building a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

In Beijing, Chairman Hue met with Party General Secretary and President of China Xi Jinping, held talks with Zhao Leji and met Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference Wang Huning.

The top Vietnamese legislator and Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Wang Dongming attended the Vietnam - China people's friendship meeting and a seminar on State-owned enterprises (SoE) reform.

In Chinese localities, Hue received Politburo member and Secretary of the Shanghai municipal Party Committee Chen Jining, and Secretary of the Yunnan provincial Party Committee Wang Ning.

The NA Chairman also attended a policy and law forum in Shanghai and a trade-investment cooperation forum in Yunnan; and received leaders of a number of large Chinese economic groups in fields such as construction, railways and telecommunications; and visited some economic and socio-cultural establishments in China.

Members of the Vietnamese delegation also held bilateral activities with their Chinese partners.

The visit took place at a time when relations between the two Parties and nations have seen many positive developments, especially following Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trongs historic visit to China in November 2022 and Chinese Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinpings visit to Viet Nam in December 2023.

It not only contributed to the cooperative ties between the two legislatures but also the overall relationship between the two Parties and countries across various sectors, including politics, national defence-security; substantive cooperation, especially in economy, trade, investment, transport connectivity, multilateral coordination, people-to-people exchange, and the control and settlement of differences at sea in accordance with the six major directions agreed upon by the leaders.

The visit once again delivered a clear message about the Vietnamese Party and States consistent foreign policy of treasuring relations with neighbouring China, reflecting a desire to concretise the common perceptions, commitments and agreements made by leaders of the two Parties and countries.

This contributed positively to the development of the Vietnam-China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, for the benefit of the people of both countries and for peace, stability and development in the region and the world. - VNS
HA NOI - In celebration of Thailands Songkran Festival, Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue has sent greetings letters to Thailands Speaker of the House of Representatives Wan Muhamad Noor Matha and President of the Senate Pornpetch Wichitcholchai on the occasion of the countrys traditional New Year festival.

In his letters, the top legislator commended significant achievements Thailand has obtained recently, wishing the nation even greater success and an enhanced regional and international role and status.

Hue also expressed his hopes for further development of the Vietnam-Thailand enhanced strategic partnership, particularly the cooperation between their legislative bodies, serving the benefit of their people as well as peace, stability, and development of the ASEAN Community, the Asia-Pacific and the world. - VNS
YUNNAN  National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation visited a hi-tech project at the Yuntianhua Green Agricultural Innovation Service Centre of the Yuntianhua Group and the Kunming International Flora Auction Trading Centre in Chinas Yunnan province on April 12.

Yuntianhua, one of the largest chemical conglomerates globally, has made significant strides in mineral research and classification. Over the past three years, its Green Agricultural Innovation Service Centre has spearheaded six national key sci-tech projects and over 20 others at the provincial level, taking the lead in establishing more than 20 national and over 10 industry standards.

At the centre, the Vietnamese delegation learned about renowned products and advanced techniques geared toward sustainable agriculture resilient to climate change. They explored innovative production methods, including soil-less cultivation of vegetables, flowers and other plants, as well as high-standard greenhouse models.

Chairman Hue wished that the group would actively share its experience and advanced technologies with Vietnamese agricultural enterprises, so as to help farmers achieve higher productivity with less labour while improving their lives.

The Vietnamese also visited the Kunming International Flora Auction Trading Centre, a model for innovating and upgrading in the floriculture industry, contributing to the digitisation of transactions in this sector.

The two models visited by the NA Chairman are successful examples of Yunnan province, one of the first Chinese localities to actively pursue green growth and the development of an ecological civilisation.

It was the final activity of Chairman Hue and his entourage in Yunnan before their departure back to Viet Nam, concluding an official visit to China.  VNS
HA NOI  The first quarter of 2024 witnessed a significant surge in Vietnamese workers venturing abroad for employment, with a staggering 35,933 individuals seeking opportunities overseas.

Statistics from various enterprises highlight the enduring appeal of nations like Japan, Taiwan (China), South Korea and several European countries as key destinations.

These numbers show that sending workers abroad isn't just about jobs - it's a key strategy for boosting both employment and socioeconomic development.

Thien Loc Commune in Can Loc District, Ha Tinh Province, boasting a population exceeding 7,500, serves as a notable contributor to the overseas workforce.

Presently, 1,367 residents are engaged in employment abroad, with key markets including Germany, France, the Czech Republic, South Korea and Japan.

Many other areas in Ha Tinh Province also have a significant number of people working abroad.

Over the past 10 years, Ha Tinh Province has had over 80,550 contract workers abroad, averaging over 7,500 annually.

In 2023 alone, more than 12,000 people from the province went to work abroad, mainly in traditional labour markets like Taiwan (China), Japan and South Korea.

According to data from the Ha Tinh Province's Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, contract workers abroad from the province typically earn a total of between VN6.8-7 trillion (US$272-280 million) annually.

A substantial portion of this income, exceeding VN4 trillion ($160 million), is remitted back home in foreign currency.

These remittances play a pivotal role in catalysing economic development, fostering entrepreneurship, supporting cooperative ventures, and financing initiatives aimed at poverty reduction, rural development and social welfare programs across the province.

In the coming years, Ha Tinh Province plans to send around 8,000 workers overseas annually, expanding beyond traditional markets to include countries like Germany, Russia, Australia, Israel and other European nations.

In Thai Binh Province, the drive to send local workers abroad has yielded significant economic and social gains. Each year, remittances back home total over US$83 million, primarily from returning workers with valuable skills and professionalism, notably from markets like Japan and South Korea.

The province has recently experimented with sending seasonal workers to South Korea, with 105 people from three districts of Quynh Phu, Vu Thu and Kien Xuong.

Some exceptional workers have even secured long-term contracts, reflecting positively on Vietnamese labour quality and boosting confidence among foreign employers.

The initiative to send Vietnamese workers abroad, seen in provinces like Ha Tinh and Thai Binh, has long been a government priority.

Efforts focus on safe, high-paying sectors, particularly benefiting workers from disadvantaged regions.

In 2023, Viet Nam sent over 159,000 workers abroad, surpassing targets by 33.3 per cent.

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA) facilitates deployments through non-profit programmes and expands negotiations with partners in South Korea, Germany and Australia to widen opportunities.

In 2024, MoLISA sets its sights on dispatching 125,000 workers overseas under contracts, with a keen focus on established markets like Japan, Taiwan (China) and South Korea.

The demand for foreign labour in South Korea, Japan and Germany is on the rise, creating favourable conditions for ongoing and future programmes.

During a recent session of the National Assembly, the minister of MoLISA ao Ngoc Dung revealed that, in line with the laws on sending Vietnamese workers abroad, an average of 120,000 to 143,000 Vietnamese citizens head abroad for employment annually, generating an impressive yearly revenue of approximately $3.5 - 4 billion.

Enhancing labour management

The Department of Overseas Labour Management reported that, according to enterprise data, March 2024 saw a total of 12,738 Vietnamese workers deployed overseas.

Overall, the first quarter of 2024 witnessed over 35,930 workers venturing abroad under contract agreements.

Mainstay markets such as Japan and Taiwan (China) continue to dominate in receiving Vietnamese workers, alongside other significant destinations like South Korea, China, Singapore, Romania, Thailand, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Hungary.

Despite positive results, Vietnamese labourers abroad confront various challenges, including contract violations and illegal residency in countries like South Korea, Taiwan (China) and Japan, driven by the desire for prolonged stays and higher earnings compared to contractual work.

In response to these issues, in 2023, the MoLISA temporarily suspended the recruitment of workers under the Employment Permit System (EPS) for eight districts across four provinces due to difficulties in repatriating workers upon contract expiration.

In Romania, a crucial market hosting nearly 11,000 Vietnamese workers, visa procedures are streamlined and demand for foreign labour is high.

However, recent cases of contract absconding and illicit migration to other countries tarnish the reputation of Vietnamese workers.

MoLISA issued a directive in early 2024 urging enterprises to tackle the problem seriously.

Enterprises sending workers to Romania are required to educate them about contract absconding risks and the importance of complying with local laws. Additionally, they must review data on absconded workers by hometown to devise tailored recruitment strategies for future deployments.

Recently, the government unveiled a plan to implement Directive 20-CT/TW from the Party Central Committee, aiming to strengthen Party leadership in sending Vietnamese workers abroad.

This plan not only outlines strategies for overseas deployment but also emphasises measures to bolster legal compliance among workers, curb law violations and illegal residency, and improve coordination mechanisms to address emerging challenges.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha called upon ministries, sectors and local administrations to invest in the development and modernisation of coastal urban systems, enhancing comprehensive transportation infrastructure and bolstering connectivity for the maritime economy throughout regions.

He was speaking during a hybrid conference on Friday on implementing the Sustainable Development Strategy for Viet Nam's maritime economy by 2030, with a vision to 2045. Representatives from 28 coastal localities participated in the event.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment presented a report assessing the results of the five years (2018-2022) in implementing the Sustainable Development Strategy for Viet Nam's maritime economy by 2030, with a vision to 2045.

In 2022, the gross regional domestic product (GRDP) of the 28 coastal cities and provinces reached VN4.78 trillion (US$191 million), accounting for 49.8 per cent of the national gross domestic product (GDP). The contribution of the GRDP of these localities to the total national GDP in 2022 reached 50.07 per cent.

Regarding the development of the coastal and near-coastal economy, the tourism sector has witnessed rapid growth, reshaping the appearance of coastal urban areas. Modern coastal tourism centres have been established with diverse marine tourism products such as resort tourism, beach bathing, sightseeing tours, and ecotourism.

The maritime economy has achieved many successes, with transport capacity steadily improving to meet transportation needs. As of the end of 2022, Viet Nam's total fleet comprised 1,477 vessels with a total deadweight tonnage of 11.6 million DWT and a total capacity of approximately 7 million GT.

In recent years, the country has constructed several large gas-fired power plants using modern technology and domestically extracted gas resources. By the end of 2022, the oil and gas industry had extracted over 425 million tonnes of oil and condensate, along with over 173 billion cubic metres of gas. Despite global and domestic economic challenges, the oil and gas sector contributed approximately 10 per cent to the total State budget revenue.

The seafood industry has played a crucial role in socio-economic development, generating significant production value, with many products achieving export turnover exceeding $1 billion. Aquaculture and seafood exploitation have gradually increased over the years, with over 3.85 million tonnes of seafood caught and 5.14 million tons of aquaculture production in 2022, representing a 6.4 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

In terms of renewable energy sources for electricity production, in 2022, renewable energy, including hydroelectric, wind, solar, and biomass power reached approximately 130 billion kWh, accounting for nearly 48 per cent of Viet Nam's total electricity output.

There are 19 coastal economic zones in the approved planning with a total area of approximately 871,500ha. By the end of 2022, these coastal economic zones had attracted 553 foreign-invested projects with a total registered investment capital of $54.36 billion.

At the conference, experts and leaders from ministries, sectors, and localities outlined the challenges and existing issues hindering the economic exploitation of many coastal areas.

They also proposed suggestions for sustainable development of the maritime economy, such as refining decrees on coastal zoning, marine spatial planning, and enhancing the State's management role in coastal and island areas.

In his directive at the conference, Deputy PM Ha urged continued investment in developing and modernising coastal urban systems, upgrading comprehensive and modern transportation infrastructure, and fostering connectivity for the maritime economy across regions and localities.

He emphasised the importance of efficiently utilising coastal landscapes, expanding the range of tourism offerings, and advancing modern, interconnected tourism infrastructure to maximise the sector's potential.

He also encouraged the establishment of renewable energy centres to serve production, and daily activities as well as ensuring national defence and security.

Ha stated that ministries, sectors, and localities should invest in storm shelter areas and coastal and island infrastructure projects, as well as developing comprehensive infrastructure for aquaculture development to support farming, fishing and processing, with a focus on investing in modern technology and techniques for offshore aquaculture.

There is an urgent need to develop plans for implementing the national marine spatial planning, he said, adding that it is crucial to promote policies for maritime economic development, strengthen the construction of resource and environmental databases, and establish a national marine information database.  VNS
HA NOI  FINE Finnish Kindergarten was officially opened in Yen Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District, Ha Noi City on April 7.

It is the first establishment in the educational cooperation between Finland International Education Group (FINE Finland) and FINE Education Development Investment JSC (FINE Vietnam).

Attending the Opening Ceremony was the Ambassador of Finland to Viet Nam, Keijo Norvanto and his wife.

The Ambassador announced that Finland continues to set a record by topping the list of the happiest countries in the world for the seventh consecutive time according to the newly published World Happiness Report of the United Nations.

He is very happy that Finnish education is continuously spreading around the world, especially the presence of Finnish preschool education in Viet Nam.

According to Johan Storgard, General Director of FINE Finland, the most effective investment is to invest in early years education.

In Finland, we always educate children about trust. When children grow up with trust in their parents, teachers, and friends, they will have trust in society. On the contrary, it is the younger generation that will continue to create trust in all activities of social life," he said.

Finlands early years education encourages and stimulates children's comprehensive learning abilities through creative play, experimentation, observation, questioning, and interaction with other children and adults.

The curriculum is designed to ensure that young children have a balanced experience in the areas of language and storytelling, maths and science, arts and performance, health and society.

Their abilities are not to be evaluated, but each child will have a unique method and goal, helping children easily adapt from preschool to primary school. Preschool time also helps children create a basic foundation for a long-term interest in learning later.

The representative of FINE Vietnam said that the two sides have agreed to cooperate in developing more educational fields beyond early years education in the next three years, such as exchanging high school students between the two countries, training Vietnamese pedagogical human resources following Finnish teaching methods, developing the scholarship programmes of Finnish university and vocational college for Viet Nam.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Ambassador presented FINE school with a set of books including Finnish children's storybooks published in Vietnamese.

The Ambassador's wife will read stories to FINE Kindergarten students with the hope of spreading reading culture to Vietnamese children.

At the ceremony also appeared the Solar Dancesport Club of the Blind. FINE Vietnam wishes to share the efforts of blind friends in the long-term goal of making Dancesport for the Blind become a new official game in the Asian and World Paralympics Games.  VNS
4

HA NOI  Vietnamese Government has approved a proposal to rearrange workdays around the upcoming holidays on April 30 and May 1.

Accordingly, public employees will be able to enjoy a five-day break due to this change. The specific details of the plan include having a day off on Monday, April 29, instead of working, and making up for it by working on Saturday, May 4.

This adjustment will result in a prolonged break for public employees, starting from Saturday, April 27, and continuing until Wednesday, May 1.

The Prime Minister has issued instructions to government agencies to reorganise their staffing to ensure uninterrupted public services during this extended break. This may involve assigning personnel to handle any urgent matters that may arise.

For the private sector, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs has recommended that employers apply the same break as public employees.

They have also emphasised the importance of strictly adhering to labour-related regulations and implementing policies that are favorable to workers. - VNS
PRAGUE  The Executive Board of the Vietnamese Association in the Czech Republic on April 11 convened the 10th congress to review its performance in the past year and set forth orientations for their operation in the time to come.

Last year, the board continued activities which aimed to connect the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic, supported their integration into host society, such as coordinating with the Vietnamese Association in Brno and South Moravia to organise a Czech - Vietnamese cultural exchange in Brno city, Tet (Lunar New Year) celebration. They also supported the opening of Vietnamese language classes for the second and third generations of Vietnamese people. Leaders of the association also attached importance to contributing to Czech society, including the launch of a campaign to raise nearly CZK300,000 (US$12,610) to aid victims of the shooting in Prague last December.

At the event, the board agreed to strengthen association activities in the coming time, towards the 25th anniversary of the association.

They will coordinate with the Vietnamese Embassy in the Czech Republic to set up projects promoting Vietnamese culture to Czech people as well as organise thematic seminars and information dissemination about legal knowledge of the host country, thereby supporting overseas Vietnamese's integration process.

In his remarks, Ambassador Duong Hoai Nam spoke highly of the efforts of leaders of Vietnamese associations in the Czech Republic in connecting the community. He hoped that the Vietnamese association would organise practical and effective activities, both serving the community and contributing to the development of Vietnam - Czech relations.

On this occasion, the association also presented awards to Vietnamese students with outstanding academic and research achievements in the past year. - VNS
HA NOI  Vietnamese leaders have extended New Year greetings to senior leaders of Laos and Cambodia on the occasion of the two neighbouring countries respective Bun Pi May and the Chol Chnam Thmay festivals.

Acting President Vo Thi Anh Xuan sent a congratulatory letter and flowers to Cambodian King Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni and Lao Vice Presidents Pany Yathotou and Bounthong Chitmany.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reached out with greetings to his Lao and Cambodian counterparts Sonexay Siphandone and Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong inh Hue also conveyed wishes to Lao National Assembly President Xaysomphone Phomvihane, Cambodian Senate President Samdech Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, and Cambodian National Assembly President Samdech Moha Rotsaphea Thipadei Khuon Sudary.

In their letters to Lao leaders, the Vietnamese leaders highlighted the significant and comprehensive strides made in the two countries ties, which have helped bolster their great traditional friendship, special solidarity, and all-rounded cooperation.

They expressed their confidence in the neighbouring nation overcoming challenges and obtaining new successes under the leadership of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (DPRP), the management of the State, and the concerted efforts of the people. They also endorsed Laos's upcoming roles as 2024 Chair of ASEAN and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), and believed in further enhancement of Laos's regional and international standing.

Meanwhile in their letters to Cambodia, the leaders wrote that under the wise reign of King Norodom Sihamoni, the Government, Senate, and National Assembly, the country and its people will continue to enjoy peace, stability, and flourishing development.

They expressed their wishes for the continued strengthening of the Viet Nam-Cambodia good neighbourliness, traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation for the sake of the two countries' people and an ASEAN community of peace, development and prosperity.

On this occasion, Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son extended greetings to Lao Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and Cambodian Deputy PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea.  VNS
A view of the business forum. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  A business forum on green transition and finance towards net-zero emissions by 2050 was held in Hanoi on April 11, bringing together hundreds of representatives from ministries, agencies, organisations and businesses.

The event was jointly held by the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD) under the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

On this occasion, the sides also approved the Support for Planning and Implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions in Vietnam (SPI-NDC) project.

The forum provided updates on Vietnams policies regarding greenhouse gas emission reduction, and specific opportunities that would support the countrys green transition.

The speeches presented at the forum highlighted the Vietnamese Governments continuous efforts to create a more favourable policy environment as well as the business circles role in cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Nguyen Tien Huy, Director of the VCCIs Office for Business Sustainable Development, stressed the need for enterprises to embark on the sustainable business model to raise their competiveness and resilience, thus meeting requirements in international economic integration.

Naoki Ikenoya from JICA Vietnam affirmed that the agency will continue its close cooperation with the Vietnamese Government and the private sector to accelerate green transition in the country.

Green finance and technology solutions for net-zero emissions As climate change has become a serious international issue, many countries have taken action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. In Vietnam, the government has made a tremendous effort to combat climate change by ratifying the Paris Climate Agreement in 2016, pursuing the National Green Growth Strategy for 2021-2030, and implementing the Law on Environmental Protection which came into effect at the beginning of 2022.
The report points out that the medium- to long-term growth story of the BNPL industry in the country remains strong. BNPL payment adoption is expected to grow steadily over the forecast period, recording a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.6 per cent during 2024-2029. The BNPL gross merchandise value in the country will increase from $2.34 billion in 2023 to reach $11.27 billion by 2029.

The BNPL market is thriving in Vietnam and the trend is projected to continue in 2024. Rising consumption is aiding the growth of the industry, and the rising middle-income class, coupled with lifestyle changes, is driving consumption among Vietnamese households. This trend is supporting the uptake of innovative payment solutions like BNPL in the domestic market.

BNPL growth is also supported by the low credit card penetration in the Vietnamese market. An increasing number of shoppers are utilising BNPL to fund their purchases, as it provides easier access to credit and higher purchasing power. The trend is expected to continue over the next three to four years, supporting broader industry growth.

To tap into the high-growth sector, domestic firms are competing with regional players like Atome and Kredivo to scale up their operations.

Domestic firms are also entering into strategic partnerships to widen the distribution of their BNPL products. The trend is projected to continue over the medium term, supporting the competitive landscape in the Vietnamese BNPL industry in 2024.

Fundiin, in November 2023, entered into a strategic partnership with Pharmacity in Vietnam. Fundiin's presence at Pharmacity, one of the leading retail pharmacy chains with approximately 1,000 stores across the country, will enable the BNPL firm to tap into more customers. This will also drive the firm's gross merchandise value and volume. In Vietnam, Fundiin is offering BNPL services across different industry verticals including cinema, fashion, cosmetics, and travel.

Meanwhile, MoMo, a leading digital wallet and BNPL provider in Vietnam, also entered into a strategic partnership with Grab last November. The partnership will enable MoMo users to make digital payments, including a BNPL option, for Grab services. With more than 31 million users, Grab stands to benefit significantly through this collaboration. MoMo, on the other hand, will also experience higher gross merchandise value and volume due, as Grab offers a wide range of services.

Growing the adoption of BNPL providers in Vietnam The gaining popularity of buy now, pay later (BNPL) services has served as a spark for new trends in digital merchant adoption. Nguyen An Son, head of Project Development for the Centre for Informatics and Digital Technology at the Ministry of Industry and Trades Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy, told VIRs Nguyen Thu about the prospects for BNPL in Vietnam.

Fundiin raises $5 million investment in Series A round Buy now pay later (BNPL) fintech Fundiin has successfully raised $5 million in a Series A funding round co-led by Trihill Capital and ThinkZone Ventures. The new round of funding will help Fundiin to expand at a faster pace and expand to Indonesia in the upcoming series B round.
National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue met with the heads of BYD on April 9, during his recent visit to China.

Hue congratulated the company on its global success and welcomed its new investment plan, while asserting that the National Assembly will support foreign businesses, including Chinese ones, to invest and do business effectively in Vietnam.

BYD has already invested in a factory worth nearly $270 million that makes tablets in the northern province of Phu Tho, established in 2021, with more than 9,000 employees.

Last year, Reuters revealed that BYD was planning to build a new factory in Vietnam to produce vehicle parts.

According to global research and consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, the Southeast Asian EV market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 28.3 per cent in the 2021-2025 period to 1.9 million units in 2025.

BYD is headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, China. Founded in 1995, the company was initially a battery manufacturer, becoming an automobile manufacturer in 2003, and diversifying into areas such as mobile phone assembly and solar cell manufacturing.

BYD is one of the world's largest electric vehicle manufacturers with a just over 17 per cent market share, just behind Tesla with a little under 20 per cent.

China's BYD to construct $200 million plant in Vietnam Chinese carmaker BYD Auto Co has a plan to construct a car-part manufacturing plant in Vietnam.
At the opening ceremony of FINE Finnish Kindergarten in Cau Giau district, Hanoi. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi - FINE Finnish Kindergarten was officially opened in Yen Hoa ward, Cau Giay district, Hanoi, on April 7 morning.

This is the first establishment in educational cooperation between two units in Finland and Vietnam - Finland International Education Group (FINE Finland) and FINE Education Development Investment JSC (FINE Vietnam).

Attending the opening ceremony was Ambassador of Finland to Vietnam Keijo Norvanto and his wife.

The ambassador announced that Finland continues to set a record by topping the list of the happiest countries in the world for the seventh consecutive time according to the newly published World Happiness Report of the United Nations.

He was very happy that Finnish education is continuously spreading around the world, especially the presence of Finnish preschool education in Vietnam.

According to Dr. Johan Storgard, General Director of FINE Finland, the most effective investment is to invest in early years education.

In Finland, we always educate children about trust. When children grow up with trust in their parents, teachers, and friends, they will have trust in society. On the contrary, it is the younger generation that will continue to create trust in all activities of social life," he said.

Finlands early years education encourages and stimulates children's comprehensive learning abilities through creative play, experimentation, observation, questioning, and interaction with other children and adults.

The curriculum is designed to ensure that young children have a balanced experience in the areas of language and storytelling, maths and science, arts and performance, health and society.

Students' abilities are not to be evaluated, but each child will have a unique method and goal, helping children easily adapt from preschool to elementary school. Preschool time also helps children create a basic foundation for a long-term interest in learning later.

The representative of FINE Vietnam said that the two sides have agreed to cooperate in developing more educational fields beyond early years education in the next three years, such as exchanging high school students between the two countries, training Vietnamese pedagogical human resources following Finnish teaching methods, and developing the scholarship programmes of Finnish university and vocational college for Vietnam.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the ambassador presented FINE Kindergarten with a set of books including Finnish children's storybooks published in Vietnamese.

The ambassador's wife read stories to FINE Kindergarten students with the hope of spreading reading culture to Vietnamese children.

At the ceremony, there was also the presence of the Solar Dancesport Club of the Blind. FINE Vietnam wishes to share the efforts of blind friends in the long-term goal of making Dancesport for the Blind become a new official game in the Asian and World Paralympics Games.
Originally, the proposal primarily catered to industrial electricity consumers. However, during a recent meeting held on April 10, it became evident that there is a growing interest from a broader spectrum of customers to participate in this initiative.

Under the current draft decree, direct electricity transactions are limited to organisations and individuals involved in industrial production, with renewable energy plants (wind and solar) that are grid-connected and have a capacity exceeding 30MW. Notably, household consumers are currently excluded from direct purchasing.

Trinh Quoc Vu, deputy director of the Department of Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Development at the MoIT, highlighted the increasing interest in the DPPA mechanism beyond its initial scope.

"The interest in the DPPA extends far beyond our initial estimates, indicating a strong market desire for broader access and diversified energy sources," Vu remarked, advocating for the inclusion of a wider array of renewable energy sources, beyond the traditional wind and solar, to meet this burgeoning demand.

Responding to these insights, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien voiced his support for expanding the scope of eligible buyers within the DPPA framework.

However, he was adamant about maintaining a strategic approach in the selection of energy types.

"While we're open to expanding our buyer base, it's crucial that we remain selective about the types of energy we include, ensuring that only clean and renewable sources like wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower are considered," Minister Dien emphasised.

This careful selection is aimed at bolstering the development of sustainable energy sources within the country.

Minister Dien also touched on the subject of capacity limits for participants, suggesting a more flexible approach that prioritises the transmission system's efficiency and the promotion of renewable energy.

"We envisage no capacity limits, shifting our focus instead to ensuring that the electricity involved is of a clean and renewable nature. This approach aims to serve the best interests of all parties," he declared.

The DPPA mechanism has captured the attention of international investors, drawn to its potential to significantly enhance the competitive edge of Vietnam's energy sector. Despite unveiling a pilot draft for the DPPA with a proposed initial capacity of 1,000MW two years ago  a proposal that garnered interest from leading global conglomerates like Samsung  the official launch of the mechanism is pending.

Elaborating on the progress made, Minister Dien revealed the ministry's commitment since 2019 towards developing the DPPA, leveraging expertise from both domestic and international consultants.

"With approval from the government and the prime minister, we have been tasked with the crucial responsibility of formulating the decree for the DPPA," he said.

Contributing to the draft, Dau Anh Tuan, deputy secretary-general of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), emphasised the need for the decree to clearly define the procedures, rights, and responsibilities of all parties involved.

Additionally, Tran Viet Hoa, director of the Electricity Regulatory Authority of Vietnam, mentioned that the DPPA cannot be separated from regulations on investment, planning, and the power development mechanism, including electricity pricing and transmission in Vietnam.
The container ship MSC Giusy, with a gross tonnage exceeding 170,000 DWT, docked at the deep-water port SSIT in the Cai Mep-Thi Vai complex, the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau, on on April 11.(Photo: VNA)

Ba Ria-Vung Tau - The container ship MSC Giusy, with a gross tonnage exceeding 170,000 DWT, on April 11 docked at the deep-water port SSIT in the Cai Mep-Thi Vai complex, the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

Flying the Liberian flag, the vessel has a length of 366 metres, a width of 51 metres, and a draught of 16 metres.

Phan Hoang Vu, Deputy General Director of the SP-SSA International Container Services Joint Venture Company  the investor of SSIT, revealed that the Ministry of Transport recently granted the port permission to accommodate vessels of up to 199,273 DWT.

This event sets a precedent for similar ships to dock at the SSIT and, by extension, the entire Cai Mep port cluster, aiming to leverage the investment effectiveness of the ministry with the new depth of this navigation channel, he noted.

The MSC company highlighted the necessity and urgency of this ship's arrival at SSIT port to facilitate rice export from Vietnam to Africa.

The ship is expected to depart on April 12 morning, continuing its journey on the international cargo transport route.

Ba Ria-Vung Tau to develop key transport links As one of the 28 localities along the coastline, Ba Ria-Vung Tau is home to around 305km of coastline, including large bays and rivers, and has the potential to become one of the key development areas in the southeast region and the centre of Vietnam's national maritime economy
The move is in accordance with Directive No.05/CT-TTg dated February 14, which ensures a sufficient amount of coal and gas for electricity production. It also aims to support EVN during this year's peak dry season.

The gas will be supplied to the Phu My 3 thermal power plant in the period of April-May, making up for approximately 500 million kWh in the power grid. The Al Jassasiya vessel is projected to supply nearly 70,000 tonnes of LNG from Ras Laffan, Qatar.

PV Gas is the first and only enterprise qualified for LNG import and export in Vietnam, as it is the only one to own the required infrastructure since July last year.

The energy giant is looking for support from local authorities to resolve policy knots related to mechanisms and infrastructure in Vietnam towards building a transparent and sustainable trading market for gas.

According to EVN, it is crucial to secure an LNG supply for electricity production, as it will be the primary source for gas-fired turbines in the future.

"EVN has instructed the National Load Dispatch Centre to start using LNG and suppliers have been contracted to commence operations at the plant in the southeast region on April 15," said Nguyen Quoc Trung, deputy director of the National Load Dispatch Centre.

"This will mark the first time ever that LNG is being used for electricity generation in Vietnam, making it a new and highly efficient fuel source for the country," Trung added.

1.3-billion-USD LNG terminal warehouse project gets greenlight The People's Committee of Binh Thuan province has issued a decision approving the investment of Son My liquefied natutal gas (LNG) terminal warehouse project in the south-central provinces Ham Tan district.

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.
Truong My Lan at the courthouse on April 11. Photo: Baodautu.vn

The court on April 11 concluded that Truong My Lan and 85 others involved in the case were culpable for the misappropriation of assets at SCB and Van Thinh Phat Group.

Particularly, Ho Chi Minh City People's Court sentenced Truong My Lan (68 years old, chairwoman of Van Thinh Phat Group) to 20 years in prison for the charge of bribery, 20 years for violating regulations on lending activities of credit institutions, and death for embezzlement.

During the trial, SCB executives admitted to their actions as described in the indictment.

The court established that Truong My Lan was the leader of Van Thinh Phat Group and exercised control over more than 91 per cent of SCB's shares, thus holding significant decision-making power within the bank. Additionally, Lan was directly involved in directing credit activities and appointing key personnel at SCB.

Despite arguments from the defence claiming Lan held no official position at SCB and therefore couldn't be culpable of embezzlement, the court dismissed this assertion. It also rejected the defence's claim that Lan had injected assets into SCB for restructuring purposes.

The court determined that Lan had only established legal entities to facilitate borrowing, and these loans were supported by fabricated collateral. Lan enlisted individuals such as Vo Tan Hoang Van and Tran Thi My Dung to withdraw funds from SCB for personal use.

Similarly, Do Thi Nhan, former director of the Inspectorate, Supervision Department of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), was found guilty of bribery during the investigation.

Despite her knowledge of irregularities at SCB, Nhan failed to report them and instead engaged in discussions with Lan about the bank's restructuring. Following these discussions, Nhan received $5.2 million from Lan through Vo Tan Hoang Van.

The court deemed Nhan's acceptance of the funds as bribery, especially considering her manipulation of inspection data to conceal SCB's irregularities.

The court concluded that the offences committed by Truong My Lan and others were highly serious and organised, with little possibility of recovering the large sums of money lost. The trial continues as the court deliberates on the culpability of other defendants involved in the case.

Losses

According to the court, to legitimise cash withdrawals and avoid detection of misconduct, Lan instructed SCB officials to transfer disbursed funds to "ghost" companies, inflate collateral assets, falsify records, and subsequently withdraw cash or carry out circular transfers to obscure the money trail.

Inflating the value of collateral assets to secure large loans was merely a ploy to siphon funds deposited by individuals at SCB.

From 2012 to 2017, Lan orchestrated the falsification of records for 304 clients, resulting in 368 loans. By 2022, these loans had accumulated a debt of over $5.28 billion in principal and interest.

After deducting from the collateral assets, these loans caused losses of around $2.59 billion. During this period, Lan's actions constituted violating regulations on lending in the operations of credit institutions.

From February 2018 to October 2022, Lan directed the falsification of 916 loan applications from SCB worth nearly $21.8 billion, embezzling nearly $12.16 billion and causing nearly $5.2 billion in interest losses.

Due to changes in the Criminal Code 2015 regarding the handling of violations before and after January 1, 2018, Lan's actions during this period constituted embezzlement.

"The indictment of the defendant's actions before January 1, 2018, for violating lending regulations in the operations of credit institutions is appropriate and beneficial to the defendant," the court stated.

Over 10 years of controlling SCB, Lan directed her accomplices to disburse over 2,500 loans to companies within the Van Thinh Phat ecosystem.

By October 2022, Lan and Van Thinh Phat still owed nearly 1,300 loans amounting to over $27 billion in principal and interest.

"The prosecutor's identification of damages including principal and interest up to the date of the indictment is appropriate," the court said, rejecting the lawyers' arguments for subtracting interest. "The prosecutor applied the principle of benefit, using evidence to eliminate some of the defendants' responsibilities, which benefited the defendants."

Inspector's defence rejected

To conceal SCB's weaknesses and help the bank escape special scrutiny, Lan instructed subordinates to bribe the inspection team.

Vo Tan Hoang Van, former CEO of SCB, gave $5.2 million to Nhan, four times to adjust inspection results in favour of SCB, enabling it to restructure.

During the inspection, Nhan was aware that Lan held a significant stake in SCB and was responsible for compiling inspection reports for submission to the SBV and the government.

However, Nhan met Lan through Vo Tan Hoang Van twice to discuss the situation at SCB. In the first meeting, Lan proposed that Nhan support SCB by ending the inspection early so that foreign investors could buy shares in SCB and continue the restructuring. In the second meeting, Nhan suggested that Lan sell assets to repay old loans to prevent the case from being investigated.

After two meetings, Nhan received $5.2 million from SCB through Van. In return, Nhan adjusted the inspection results to avoid special scrutiny and did not report any misconduct at SCB to investigative agencies.

Other members of the inspection team did not know that Nhan met with Van and Lan or the purpose of the adjusted data, narrowing the scope of the inspection.

The defendant's directives were essentially a method to negotiate bribes from Lan. Moreover, the money the defendant received coincided with the times she was reporting to inspection agencies about SCB.

The testimonies of employees at SCB Cau Giay determined that the amount transferred to this branch and then withdrawn to exchange for USD to give to Van coincided in terms of time and value.

"The entire sequence of actions of the defendant from beginning to end and other evidence is sufficient to determine that the defendant is fully aware of her actions," the verdict said.

According to the court, when Nhan, as head of the inspection team, she saw signs of misconduct, she should have reported to the investigative agency, but instead proposed that Nguyen Van Hung (chief inspector) handle the matter.

In court, the defendant stated that the reason for receiving the payment was "to protect her family because at that time many people related to the case had died ... She contacted me many times to return the money but could not." This defence was ruled as being unfounded.

You didn't have to accept money four times if you didn't want to, or give the passcode to your house so Van could drop money off there, the verdict said. "Therefore, the defendant's actions are sufficient to constitute the offence of giving bribes and also show Nhan accepted them, so the arguments from the defence are not accepted."
Hue was briefed on the SHFTZ's establishment, development, and its significant achievements. "We exchanged views on institutional frameworks, operational mechanisms, and the unique, targeted policies that have been instrumental in the development of the SHFTZ," Hue said.

Piloted in 2013, the SHFTZ was China's first free trade zone, launched as part of the country's strategy to embrace multilateral and diversified opening-up policies. Since then, China has established 22 similar zones.

In the past decade and more, SHFTZ has evolved into a flagship model for economic innovation, significantly expanding Shanghai's economic scale and attracting substantial foreign investment. By the end of 2022, SHFTZ housed 84,000 new companies, with the newer Pudong area alone drawing almost 18,700 foreign ventures, accumulating registered capital exceeding $217 billion and increasing goods trade from around $208 billion in 2013 to more than $340 billion in 2022.

Chairman Hue expressed gratitude to the SHFTZ leaders for their detailed explanations of the zones mechanisms, policies, and legal framework. He also voiced his hope that the National People's Congress of China and the Shanghai authorities would continue to share their experiences with Vietnamese legislative bodies in crafting institutional frameworks for the operation of free trade zones.

China Duty Free and IPPG to open duty-free shops in Vietnam China Duty Free, owned by state-owned travel company China Tourism, has signed a deal with Vietnamese conglomerate Imex Pan Pacific Group (IPPG) to open three duty-free shops in Vietnam to draw in Chinese tourists.
Under the MoU, the two sides will develop the system with a configuration of eight fibre pairs using the most advanced wavelength division multiplexing technology.

Singtel will manage the main trunk landing station in Singapore, while Viettel will manage the Vietnamese, with branch landing stations in Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Slated to be put into operation in the second quarter of 2027, the VTS cable will be the shortest cable directly connecting Singapore and Vietnam.

Ooi Seng Keat, vice president of Digital Infrastructure and Services at Singtel, said, "Vietnam is one of the worlds fastest growing digital economies, with businesses and consumers adopting new technologies such as AI and data-intensive applications. The construction of the VTS cable will support the increasing demand for higher-bandwidth and lower-latency connectivity."

The partnership is in line with Vietnams strategy for developing its own international-standard optical cable system by 2030, with the goal of becoming a Southeast Asian digital hub. The country is aiming to increase its total number of submarine cables to at least 15 systems with a total capacity of at least 334 terabits per second (tbps).

Once put into operation, the VTS cable will add hundreds of tbps to Viettels total international connectivity and provide a large amount of high-speed capacity, opening up new connections and enhancing the redundancy and security of Viettels international connection infrastructure.

Nguyen Manh Ho, general director of Viettel Solutions, said, "The VTS submarine cable project affirms Viettel's pioneering role in helping the government develop world-class digital infrastructure in Vietnam."

VNPT to deploy AAE-1 submarine cable Vietnams international connectivity will be improved once the Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT)s internet service via the Asia-Africa-Europe-1 (AAE-1) is offered in July.

Singtel Group signs partnership with FPT Software to expand to Vietnam NCS, a member company of Singtel Group, a leading technology service provider in the Asia-Pacific region is going to develop a strategic technology centre (SDC) in Vietnam as a way to expand in the country.
On April 11, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin welcomed Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son during his official visit to Thailand.

The PM said he was pleased with the dynamism of Thailand  Vietnam relations, especially the work under the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy framework.

As two major economies in the region, he insisted that Thailand and Vietnam should work closely to drive further peace and stability as well as economic integration in the Mekong sub-region. He also expressed his commitment to pay an official visit to Vietnam and co-chair the 4th Joint Cabinet Retreat in June.

In response, Minister Son said he was honoured to meet the PM during the Thai Songkran Festival and expressed his good wishes. He congratulated the Thai government for its achievements in revitalising and developing the Thai economy and expressed his confidence that the PM will drive Thailand's role as well as help promote the economy in the region.

He also confirmed that Vietnam is ready to welcome the official visit, which will be a good opportunity to announce the elevation of Thailand - Vietnam relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

On the occasion, both sides discussed ways to promote three main areas of Thailand  Vietnam cooperation, including trade and investment, tourism, and infrastructure. On trade and investment, PM Thavisin asked Vietnam to facilitate Thailands goods in transit, especially fruit, at the Vietnam  China border checkpoints, while Son expressed his readiness to work with Thailand to increase trade volume and market access.

On tourism, both sides agreed to increase flight connections between Thailand and Vietnam, especially between second-tier tourist destinations, and support the Six Countries, One Destination scheme.

On infrastructure development, both sides agreed to work together to improve infrastructure, particularly the road between Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, to promote trade and investment, as well as people-to-people exchanges.

Vietnam, Thailand expand cooperation in different sectors Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and his Thai counterpart Don Pramudwinai exchanged views on cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand during a virtual talk on September 3.

Thailand's SCB poised to acquire Home Credit Vietnam SCB X Pcl, the largest bank in Thailand based on market value, is nearing an agreement to acquire Home Credit's Vietnamese operations.
We dont know much about Jesus childhood. For the most part, the Bible is silent regarding these years. We do know that Joseph took his family to Egypt following Jesus birth in order to protect the child from King Herods paranoid wrath. After their departure from Bethlehem, Herods soldiers attacked the small village slaughtering all the male children under the age of two. The event was consistent with Herods brutal rule. We can only imagine the grief and sorrow suffered by the Bethlehemites.

Joseph made a home for the family in Egypt and waited. When Herod died, Joseph and Mary returned with their young family to their home in Nazareth. Matthew points out that this was a fulfillment of the Messianic prophecy, Out of Egypt I called My Son. (Matthew 2:15)

Anne Rice wrote a book that was later made into a movie based on this time in Jesus life, Christ the Lord, Out of Egypt. The book and the movie try to imagine what Jesus would have been like as a child, how He and His family would have wrestled with the growing awareness of His identity. The Bible only tells us that He grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.

Almost as interesting as the movies plot is the journey of the author who wrote the book upon which it is based. Anne Rice grew to fame writing The Vampire Chronicles while professing to be an atheist. She shocked the secular world when, in 2002, she announced she was done with vampires. After 38 years as a professed atheist, she said she had found faith in Christ and returned to the Catholic Church.

Eight years later, she rocked the Christian world by proclaiming she was renouncing Christianity. She stated, For those who care, and I understand if you dont: Today I quit being a Christian. Im out. I remain committed to Christ as always but not to being Christian or to being part of Christianity. She went on to say, My faith in Christ is central to my life. My conversion from a pessimistic atheist lost in a world I didnt understand, to an optimistic believer in a universe created and sustained by a loving God is crucial to me. Rice died December 11, 2021 at the age of 80.

Anne represents many who continue to believe in Christ but have left organized Christian churches. George Barna, the leading researcher on faith in America, reported in 2008 that a majority of adults now believe that there are various biblically legitimate alternatives to participation in a conventional church. It appears that there is a growing number of people who claim faith in Jesus but want little or nothing to do with the institutional church.

Worldwide, we are witnessing the largest growth in the number of Jesus followers in history. The number of believers in Africa grew from 9 million to 360 million in the last century. More Muslims have come to faith in Christ in the last two decades than at any other time in history. Churches, what they look like and how they function, are changing while the number of Jesus followers is growing.
WEST DES MOINES  For the third consecutive year, UnityPoint Health has been recognized as one of the top places to work in health care in the country by a national industry publication.

This week, Beckers Healthcare included UnityPoint Health on its 2024 list of 150 Top Places to Work in Healthcare. The list highlights hospitals, health systems and health care companies that prioritize workplace excellence and the happiness, satisfaction, wellbeing, and fulfillment of their employees.

UnityPoint Health, which provides care across Iowa, western Illinois and southern Wisconsin, is the only health system headquartered in Iowa to be named to this years list and is one of only a handful of health systems in Illinois and Wisconsin to be included.

Its truly an honor to be recognized as a top place to work in healthcare for the third consecutive year, said UnityPoint Health Chief Administrative Officer Jessica Meisner. We continue to have a strong commitment to our culture and team members and this recognition is affirmation of that ongoing effort across our organization.

UnityPoint Health has also been named a top employer by Forbes (three times) and the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce since 2021.

For individuals interested in joining the UnityPoint Health team, search for open career opportunities at unitypoint.org/joinourteam.
KEYSTONE  A missing 11-year-old Benton County girl has been found unharmed in Keystone.

Rhiannon Rainy Walter was located unharmed at 3:10 p.m. Thursday. She was being medically evaluated.

A large number of state, federal, and local agencies, along with a substantial number of volunteers assisted in a prolonged search.

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KEYSTONE  Authorities are seeking the publics help in locating a missing 11-year-old Benton County girl.

Rhiannon Rainy Walter was last seen around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday in Keystone.

She is described as a white female, 4 feet 9 inches tall and 90 pounds with blonde hair and blue eyes.

She was wearing a cream-colored Sublime tank top, black shorts and green-and-white checkered Vans shoes. She was also carrying a black backpack with hearts and moons.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Benton County Sheriffs Department at (319) 472-2337 Option 1.

Photos: Missing children in Iowa Janiah Marie Williams Timialyia Denise Bennett Alejandra Tejeda Jade Colvin Fredrick Workman Benjamin Roseland Erin Pospisil Marc Allen Eugene Martin John Gosch Kimberly Doss Colleen Simpson Angie Ola Grear
DES MOINES  Iowa police and firefighters would see benefits expanded to include disabilities caused by long-term physical stress and mental health conditions under a bill headed to Gov. Kim Reynolds.

House File 2680 unanimously passed the Iowa Senate on Thursday, and now heads to Reynolds for consideration.

The bill updates disability compensation rules and changes the states pension program for professional police and firefighters, which covers police departments in 49 of Iowas larger cities and fire departments in 38 of those.

A past Iowa Supreme Court ruling found that state law currently only allows police and firefighters to receive disability benefits if their disability can be traced to a specific incident.

Disabilities that appear after decades on the job, caused by work duties like carrying heavy equipment, are not covered. The bill specifies that any disability caused by employment is covered.

The bill also would add disability coverage for mental health conditions caused by traumatic incidents on the job, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Unlike the physical disabilities, the condition would need to be traceable to a specific traumatic incident or incidents to be covered.

The bill comes after legislation expanding the disability coverage for firefighters who develop cancer on the job failed to advance in the Senate.

The Senate did not take up the bill, which unanimously passed the House in February, before a legislative funnel deadline.

The proposal would have eliminated from state law the specification of individual cancers covered by the retirement programs and instead covers all cancers. Sen. Jason Schultz, the chair of the Senate State Government Committee, said he did not have enough time to research the cost impacts of the bill before the deadline.

Schultz said he does not expect to take up the bill this year but may look into it in future years.

Rep. Bobby Kaufmann, a Republican from Wilton, said the latest bill was broader and another way to get something done this session to improve public service benefits.

Sheriff retirement changes head to governor

The Iowa Senate unanimously passed a bill Thursday that would make changes to the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System for sheriffs and deputies, including increasing the applicable percentage for retirement benefit payments.

It also would provide that a person charged with the murder or felony assault of a law enforcement or corrections officer is not eligible for bail. And it would create a tax credit of up to $2,000 for public safety officers moving into Iowa.

House File 2661 increases the maximum IPERS retirement benefit from 72% to 80% of a retirees three-year salary average. It also establishes an annual 1.5% cost-of-living adjustment to the monthly allowance for sheriff and deputy sheriff members of IPERS for retirements on or after July 1.

Representatives for the Iowa State Association of Counties and Iowa State Sheriffs' & Deputies' Association say the legislation will help recruitment and retention efforts, and bring IPERS into better alignment with other pensions systems in Iowa for law enforcement.

The pension increase will be split evenly between the county and retirees.

The bill passed House last month with a vote of 93-0. It now heads to Gov. Kim Reynolds to be signed into law.

Bill adds penalties for cities, counties that bar firearms

Iowa counties and cities that enact policies regulating the possession of firearms could be subject to new penalties under a bill passed by the Iowa Senate on Thursday.

House File 2556 creates penalties for political subdivisions in Iowa that enact firearms ordinances, rules and policies that are more restrictive than state law. The bill would allow a judge to impose damages of up to $2,500 per day for local governments that knowingly participated in the violation after being notified of the violation.

The legislation comes after a southern Iowa county agreed to pay $100,000 to settle a case after a judge found it had illegally barred firearms from its courthouse.

The Iowa Supreme Court issued an order in 2017 prohibiting all weapons from courtrooms, court-controlled spaces and public areas of courthouses and other justice centers occupied by the court system, but gives counties authority to set their own rules if their courts are in a building that houses other government functions.

At the same time, the Legislature passed a law preempting local firearms regulations, with an exception for bans in buildings with armed security and weapons screening.

The Iowa Senate passed the bill, 40-5, with several Democrats opposed. It now heads to Gov. Reynolds to be signed into law.

AG Bird joins electric vehicles lawsuit

Iowa is among 13 Republican-led states joining a lawsuit challenging a federal rule the states argue overstates the fuel efficiency of electric vehicles, the Iowa Attorney Generals Office announced.

The Biden administration last month announced new emission standards for passenger cars designed to reduce planet-warming emissions, the Associated Press reported.

The lawsuit claims the federal Department of Energy in the new rules overstated electric vehicles fuel efficiency, lacked the legal authority to impose the rules, failed to perform a required environmental impact statement, and that the new rules are arbitrary and capricious.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, in a news release, argued the new federal rules favor electric vehicles and will cause harm to Iowa farmers and producers of corn-based ethanol.

Biden has made it clear that he will take every avenue possible to wage war on gas-powered vehicles. And Iowa ethanol is getting caught in the crossfire, Bird said in the news release. Im leading the charge in court to combat Bidens extremist anti-energy agenda and protect Iowa ethanol and farmers.

One city's surprising tactic to reduce gun violence: Solving more nonfatal shootings One city's surprising tactic to reduce gun violence: Solving more nonfatal shootings Other cities have woken up to Denver's example
A few years ago, Simon Harris made a splash on TikTok and Instagram, branding himself as a "millennial TD" who was speaking directly to younger generations. The endless selfie videos and social media sheen earned him plenty of mockery, with critics deriding the fresh-faced TD as cloying. But those dismissive jibes have been firmly silenced now that the 37-year-old has ascended to become Fine Gael's leader and the presumptive next Taoiseach.

It's been a remarkably swift rise for someone raised in the quaint seaside town of Greystones, the eldest son of Bart and Mary Harris. Simon was the prototypical overeager teen politico, cutting his teeth at just 15 by pounding the pavements to hand out leaflets. By 18, he had abandoned university, diving headfirst into the cesspit of Leinster House as a parliamentary messenger boy for veteran Senator Frances Fitzgerald.

Those formative years as a precocious pup helped instill Harris' fierce personal ambition and relentless work ethic. He swiftly transitioned from bagman to increasingly more significant responsibilities, winning seats on local councils at 22 before earning his own Dail seat at the tender age of 24, allowing him to make his audacious maiden speech, nominating Enda Kenny as Taoiseach, the first step in his remorseless rise.

From those humble beginnings, Harris deftly climbed each rung of the ladder - through plum committee assignments, a junior ministry role at 27, and the poisoned chalice of the Health portfolio at just 29. Though mired in the typical crises endemic to that cursed position, he emerged unscathed. On February 20, 2019, Harris survived a motion of no-confidence over his handling of the rising costs of the new National Children's Hospital.

Harris honed his social media savvy, engaging the liberal millennial crowd by positioning himself as the fresh, passionate antidote to Fine Gael's staid centrism. An endless spew of family portraiture, puppy videos, and earnest grandstanding flooded his feeds, rebranding Harris as oven-fresh baked political royalty.

This deft branding paid dividends, remaking Harris' image as a dynamic progressive for the digital frontier rather than just another scowling Blueshirt peddling populism. The overriding tone was more managerial stewardship and uncontroversial centrism - very much in the mould of his admitted role model, Leo Varadkar.

While Simon Harris may model himself outwardly on Leo Varadkar, the new Taoiseach will be careful not to become too tarnished by his association with Varadkar's already stale tenure. Harris needs to decisively separate himself from the arrogant centrism and check-box progressivism that came to epitomise Varadkar's hollow brand of politics. Otherwise, he risks inheriting the same grassroots rebellion that contributed to Leo's abrupt downfall.

On the surface, the similarities between the two men are obvious. Like Varadkar before him, Harris is a young, urban cosmopolitan selling himself as a modern, tech-savvy face for a new, multicultural Ireland. Both deployed relentless social media branding to connect with millennials and project a caring, progressive persona distinct from Fine Gael's crusty Blueshirt roots. Their vigorous use of Twitter, Instagram and TikTok to engage the trendies with family portraiture and selfie-casual content married old-school narcissism with new-age authenticity cravings.

But where Varadkar was more of a pampered, urbane Man of the World, Harris defiantly cultivates a more boyish, oven-fresh wholesomeness. The mopheaded Minister leans heavily into earnest territory with his endearing and viral TikTok pandering. "Dad of two and dog lover" states his biog on his social media pages. It's a clever humanising tactic, juxtaposing the dewy fatherly schtick against the neglected Fine Gael reputational rehab.

Yet despite the cuddly branding, Harris must overcome scepticism that his progressive pretenses are merely the latest coat of paint on the same stale, cynical Blueshirt policies. Varadkar's brand grew increasingly tarnished by his detachment, managerial drift, and endless platitudinous media engagement.

In contrast, Harris can position himself credibly as a substantive break from that banality. His unabashed zeal and will to claim the levers of power can mark a clear point of distinction. A Varadkar-style complacency - simply holding office won't cut it for this ambitious young blade who has charged up the ranks with great haste and purpose.

More importantly, Harris must embrace bold, progressive policies that set him apart from his former boss's centrism. He can be a vocal and passionate voice for Ireland's accelerating diversity and rapidly shifting demographics. Living up to the social media branding requires courageous leadership around equity, women's rights, environmental justice, and genuine commitments to improving outcomes for disadvantaged communities while reinforcing and reclaiming Fine Gaels tattered Republican credentials. Hewing too close to Varadkar's meandering liberality would boldly squander a prime opportunity to realign Irish politics.

The lack of excitement around Varadkar's final weeks was palpable, his credibility and popularity waning from government-fracturing losses in the recent referendum. Harris would be naive to believe he's fully inoculated long-term against similar grassroots disillusionment if he reheats the same bland fare and goes through the motions. The Irish people have demonstrated their appetite for genuine change and a re-engagement with core Republicanism - empty optics no longer suffice.

Simon Harris has convinced many younger voters that he represents an inspiring new cohort of passionate millennial civic leaders. But his TikTok terrier schtick will ring increasingly hollow if not matched by transformational substance. If he doesn't distance himself decisively from Leo's legacy, his millennial mantra could quickly wither into another trite empty branding exercise - sowing the seeds for inevitable grassroots rebellion.

The first significant test looms large in June's local and European elections. Fine Gael could face staggering losses after their recent referendum meltdowns and the residual stench of Varadkar's miscalculations. A disastrous defeat on a national scale risks crippling Harris' credibility before he even inputs his first cabinet. Conversely, shoring up the party base and reversing the reputational damage through charismatic campaigning on the ground could galvanise his reputation as a dynamic leader of a new, inclusive Irish future.

There's no doubting Harris' fierce energy and ravenous personal drive to make the absolute most of his premiership. But will that prove enough to dispel the lingering clouds over Fine Gael's tone-deafness and thinly veiled contempt for opposing narratives? Or are his earnest progressive pretenses merely the latest dollop of freshly baked PR frosting upon a predictably banal agenda? In a few years, will Simon Harris be remembered as a breath of fresh political air or just another painfully inauthentic flavour of the month wheeled out to dress up the same tired policies in a millennial skinsuit?

Having powered through such a meteoric ascent from pup to PM, the youthful Harris has more than earned his chance to imprint a genuinely modern, inclusive, and forward-thinking vision upon Ireland's polity. However, whether he has the fortitude to back up all the hashtag heroics with a steady hand of genuine principle and conviction beyond personal branding remains to be seen.

If he can pull off that acrobatic transformation into an inspiring, unifying national leader, Simon Harris' tenure could be genuinely historic as a youthful reboot of progressive politics for the island's diverse 21st-century reality. If not, his time as Taoiseach risks being merely a brief, meme-friendly detour before the subsequent Blueshirt retread retakes the reins. In the coming months, the Irish people will discover whether Harris will mature into a substantive Taoiseach - or prove to be just another boyish novelty act destined for the dustbin of political history.
The conflict in Ukraine will end once the US Congress votes to provide new support to Kyiv, Biden said.

One could remember for the hundredth time about the old mans dementia and his sons corruption. About the interests of the American military-industrial complex and the influence of the deep state. About the war between Democrats and conservatives and the clinch between the states and the US federal government.

But Ill tell you something else. Bidens statement is absolutely evil . For he said: Kill each other further. The more people die, the better. I want as many deaths as possible

Truly, and I looked, and behold, a pale horse, and on it a rider whose name was death; and hell followed him (Revelation of the Apostle John the Theologian (Apocalypse) 6:8).

Therefore, the sooner the rider on the pale horse takes Joseph Robinett Biden with him, the better it will be for our suffering world

Medvedev
Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (11 April 2024)

In response to the Kiev regimes attempts to damage the oil, gas and energy facilities of the Russian Federation, the Russian Armed Forces launched a massive strike tonight by air- and sea-based high-precision long range weaponry, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles at the facilities of the Ukrainian fuel and energy plant.

The goal of the strike has been achieved. All the targets have been engaged.

The strikes disrupted the work of the Ukrainian military industry enterprises, thwarted the transfer of reserves to combat zones, and made it difficult to supply fuel to the AFU troops and military units.

In Kupyansk direction, units of the Zapad Group of Forces took more advantageous lines, and inflicted losses on units of AFU 103rd territorial defence and 13th national guard brigades close to Kruglyakovka (Kharkov region) and Serebryanka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 35 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm Akatsiya self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line and inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of AFU 54th mechanised, 46th airmobile, 79th and 80th air assault brigades near Belogorovka, Ostroye, Konstantinovka, Krasnogorovka, and Verkhnekamenskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses were 520 Ukrainian troops, three armoured personnel carriers, and four motor vehicles.

In the course of the counter-battery warfare, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 gun, one 152-mm Msta-B gun, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, as well as two Nota electronic warfare stations were eliminated.

In Avdeyevka direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces have improved the tactical situation, and repelled eight counter-attacks of assault groups of AFU 25th airborne, 71st jaeger, 59th motorised infantry, 24th, 47th, 115th mechanised brigades near Pervomayskoye, Novokalinovo, Novobakhmutovka, Umanskoye and Berdychi (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 275 Ukrainian troops, two tanks, two infantry fighting vehicles, and two pick-up trucks.

In the course of the counter-battery warfare, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, two 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer were eliminated.

In South Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces units improved the situation along the front line and inflicted fire damage on units of AFU 58th motorised infantry, 128th territorial defence brigade close to Urozhaynoye and Makarovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU lost up to 105 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, as well as one Nota electronic warfare station.

In Kherson direction, units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of AFU 128th mountain assault, 121st territorial defence brigades near Lobkovoye (Zaporozhye region) and Nikopol (Dnepropetrovsk region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 35 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, and one 152-mm Giatsint-B towed howitzer.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged three depots of missile, artillery, and aviation ordnance, one S-125 anti-aircraft missile launcher, as well as AFU manpower and hardware in 112 areas.

Air defence systems shot down 266 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, four HIMARS and Uragan MLRS projectiles, as well as three U.S.-made JDAM aerial guided bombs.

In total, 583 airplanes and 270 helicopters, 20,355 unmanned aerial vehicles, 500 air defence missile systems, 15,756 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,266 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 8,818 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 20,887 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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A plea hearing has been been scheduled for May 14 for an inmate at the Waupun Correctional Institution who is charged with attempted homicide after allegedly stabbing his cell mate in January.

William Lasalle, 49, is also charged with aggravated battery. He could face up to 40 additional years in prison and 20 years of extended supervision for the attempted homicide charge.

Lasalle appeared before Dodge County Circuit Judge Kristine Snow on Thursday for a preliminary hearing.

He is being held in the Dodge County Jail on a $1.5 million bond.

Lasalle had been scheduled to be released from Waupun on Feb. 18. He had been serving a sentence for battery by prisoner after previously being convicted of armed robbery.

According to the criminal complaint:

The Dodge County Sheriffs Office sent a detective to the Waupun Correctional Institution on Jan. 24 for a report of a stabbing. The victim had been taken to Waupun Memorial Hospital for treatment and later transferred to UW Hospital in Madison for life-threatening injuries. Lasalle had been housed with the man since Jan. 16.

Correctional staff found the victim on his back on the top bunk bed in the cell with blood on him and around him. He had a large cut on his right inner elbow and multiple other wounds, including one to the center of his chest.

Lasalle said he was ready to go to seg when he was asked what had happened, meaning he was aware he would no longer be part of the general population at the prison. No weapon was found on Lasalle.

The victim said he had not had issues with Lasalle before that point. He said he thought Lasalle had stabbed him with a pen or a spoon. His most serious injury was the chest wound, which injured his pericardial sac and caused air to surround his heart.

Close Law enforcement raise $7,500 for Beaver Dam boy undergoing cancer treatments during softball game The Beaver Dam Police Department and Dodge County Sheriff's Office raised $7,500 on Saturday during their annual softball game.
A Reno toy store is asking for help finding three suspects who allegedly stole a valuable Hot Wheels figure.

In a post on their Facebook page, Toys N More said the Hot Wheel was worth $1,700.

Stills from surveillance video shows the suspects and what is believed to be a car connected to the crime.

The post says the business is family owned and they are asking anyone with information to contact them at (775) 384-1044.

The store is located on Kietzke Lane.
German car companies intensifying presence in Chinese market

Global Times) 09:52, April 12, 2024

German carmaker Volkswagen announced on Thursday it would invest 2.5 billion euros in its innovation hub in Hefei, East China's Anhui Province, as the company is further increasing its pace of innovation in China, its key market, the Global Times learned.

The move came as more German companies are intensifying their presence in the Chinese market as they are hoping to further tap into the potential of the world's second-largest economy. It also comes ahead of the visit of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to China this month.

With a consistent "In China, for China" approach, Volkswagen continues to drive localization and strengthen the alignment of its products with the needs of Chinese customers, the company said in a press release sent to the Global Times on Thursday.

After 40 years in the Chinese market, Volkswagen's network in China now features 39 plants, 90,000 employees and around 50 million customers.

The new expansion in Hefei comes against the backdrop of China's fast development of the electric vehicle industry, which is taking the lead globally in terms of production and sales.

Volkswagen China Technology Company (VCTC), the Group's 100 percent owned subsidiary based in Hefei, is the central unit responsible for product localization. VCTC is developing China-specific electric architecture, called the China Main Platform, on which at least four additional models for the electric entry-level segment in the compact class will be built from 2026.

In addition to the expansion of R&D capacity, preparations are also being made for the production of two Volkswagen models that are currently being developed together with Chinese partner XPENG. Production of the first model, an SUV in the mid-size segment, will begin as early as 2026, according to the company.

The additional models will accelerate the electrification of Volkswagen's model portfolio in China. By 2030, more than 30 all-electric models of all group brands will be on offer in China, said the company.

Audi, another German carmaker, is also expanding its business in the Chinese market. In a recent statement that the company sent to the Global Times, Audi said that following the start of production by Audi FAW New Energy Vehicle Co this year, they will introduce a luxury pure electric platform with advanced production technology, strengthening China's position as a global strategic investment market.

German businesses are putting more weight on the Chinese market, despite the intensified "decoupling" or "de-risking" moves by the EU against China.

In mid-April, Scholz is set to travel to China with a bumper delegation of ministers and business executives. The large scale of the delegation grabbed foreign media attention. Experts said that his visit signifies Germany's willingness to maintain pragmatic cooperation with China, despite certain noises in the bloc targeting China.

A report released on Wednesday by the German Chamber of Commerce in China revealed that 79 percent of the German companies surveyed in China plan to continue their investment, affirming their confidence in China's robust economic foundations.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Your travel bucket list doesnt have to break the bank. To help you fulfill your globe-trotting goals  sans the high spending  we talked with travel industry professionals and writers about their favorite cost-saving tips. Here are 25 of the best ways to save on travel, and dont forget to share your own budget-travel tips in the comments section at the bottom of the page.

1. Try a price prediction tool

Some budget travelers swear by only booking their flights on Tuesdays. Others suggest booking on Saturdays. But according to Nick Ewen, senior editorial director for The Points Guy, that day to book thing is largely a myth. What could matter? The day of the week, or the time of day, you actually fly. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are often cheaper days to fly than Fridays or Sundays. Because prices fluctuate, Ewen recommends using tools such as Hopper, Google Flights or Kayak to track and monitor when a flight is a good deal and when its not. Price prediction tools will essentially say, Right now, prices on this route are high, but we expect them to drop within the next 30 to 45 days, he says, noting its not always a guarantee  but these tools can help you make a more informed decision.

Members only

2. Cash in those airline miles

If youve built up miles with a specific airline, use them, says Ewen. Any opportunity to use your miles to keep cash in your pocket is a good redemption, he says. I often see people who are new to the world of loyalty programs, points and miles, and theyre afflicted with analysis paralysis. Instead of using their perks, they sit on them  but doing so could be costing you. Points and miles are terrible long-term investments; they only lose value over time, Ewen says. If you want to double-check the miles-to-money conversion before booking, try online calculators that tabulate this equation, including NerdWallet, Omni Calculator and The Point Calculator.

3. Track and modify your trip

Heres even more incentive to book: In recent years, a growing number of U.S. airlines, including United, Delta, American and Alaska, have removed change fees. That means if you book a ticket, then see a better flight deal, you can modify your reservation and pocket the difference. This goes for not only flights booked with dollars, but also miles. Since the pandemic, just about every airline, aside from basic economy status, has made award tickets, generally speaking ... are now fully refundable, Ewen says. 

4. Keep tabs on your credit card discounts

If your credit card comes with a steep annual price, know that oftentimes there are many ways to offset that fee, Ewen says. Many cards offer travel credits, complimentary companion passes and other lifestyle perks. But to benefit, you need to actually use them. Credit card issuers rely on people to not be informed; that way they can offer a perk that [would] cost them money, but theyre not actually going to have to fork that money over, he says. To keep tabs on your cards perks, which include everything from rideshare and TV subscription credits to grocery discounts, Ewen suggests checking your account every month and creating a spreadsheet of all available offers.

Illustration by Sam Island

5. Look into living the lounge life

Airport lounges can help you save on overpriced terminal fare, and typically offer complimentary food and drink (in many cases alcoholic beverages), showers, less-crowded bathrooms, numerous charging ports and comfortable seating. Lounge life can improve the air transit experience, but there is a cost. Many airline lounges require a paid membership or can be accessed by paying annual fees on travel credit cards. These several-hundred-dollar annual fees come with a variety of perks, such as the opportunity to bring one or several guests free of charge. To determine if lounge membership fees are worth it, Ewen suggests crunching the numbers to see how often you plan to travel and how much you and your potential airport lounge guests could save on amenities. Additionally, if you do decide to obtain lounge membership, make sure your home or go-to airport has that specific airline lounge, he says.

6. Dont shrug off shoulder season

Want to cut spending and dodge congestion? Travel journalist, photographer and founder of the blog Camels & Chocolate Kristin Luna has some advice: Traveling in [the] off-season, or shoulder season, is my favorite way to travel  not only do you save money, but you avoid the crowds, she says, noting that, on a November trip to Iceland  well outside the summer high season  she and her family saved big: We paid roughly half of what we would have had we decided to travel in summer months. They also saw a fraction of the crowds. Of course, traveling in the shoulder season can come with a downside, like seasonal closures or bad weather. Before booking a shoulder-season adventure, make sure the restaurants, attractions and experiences you hope to enjoy are still available.

7. Skip the gas pump

Another way to save on rental cars: Go electric. It may wind up being cheaper than filling up with gas, especially if youre outside the U.S., says Ewen, noting gas in many destinations across Europe can be incredibly expensive. That said, an EV isnt always the best option. The big thing is going into it knowing exactly how youre going to charge the car, Ewen says. If youre largely in the countryside, where there are minimal EV charging stations, you could end up in trouble. But if youre mostly traveling between cities or large urban areas, you should be in the clear  although its smart to research EV guidelines for specific countries and regions before you book. For that, EV-focused websites like Chargemap, Electromaps and PlugShare can help.

8. Use credit card rental car insurance

If you have a travel credit card, odds are it includes rental car insurance  but you have to follow a few important steps to use it. First, decline all of the rental car companys protection offerings, Ewen says. This includes roadside assistance, collision damage waiver  any and all protections. If you do have an issue during your trip  say, a cracked windshield  you can submit the claim by contacting your credit card company. Before you rely on this method, its important to know whats included with your cards insurance. Coverage on car rentals through credit cards is limited to damage and theft, Ewen says. If you have questions, call your credit card company (via the phone number on the back of your card) to confirm. When you prefer more coverage than whats offered through your credit card  or youd rather avoid dealing with the potential claims process  consider the rental car companys options, but do your research ahead of time to avoid being pressured into any decisions.
Foreign exchange

Similar to the crypto scams noted above, these involve scammers promising easy gains for investments in foreign exchange markets. They often keep the ruse going by delivering payouts Ponzi schemestyle.

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Recent case: In late 2022, the Securities and Exchange Commission alleged that Houston resident John Fernandez had fraudulently raised more than $4.3 million from about 175 investors, promising guaranteed interest every month from trading in currency markets. Rather than investing in foreign exchange markets, he sent investors computer screenshots of fabricated gains from trades, the SEC said. He paid out some money, but that was mostly a Ponzi scheme  a fraud in which the illusion of a successful operation is created by paying investors fake profits that are simply money paid in by other deceived investors. When that venture failed, Fernandez blamed a tax blowback and asked investors to move their money to a new investment, described as a legitimate financial company. This second venture, which promised annual returns of 5 to 100 percent, failed as well.

Guaranteed buyback

These scams promise the benefits of entrepreneurship with none of its risks. All you need to do is buy something from the scammer, who promises to buy it back from you once its ready for market. Variations on this pitch have included you buy our seedlings, and well buy your plants and buy our earthworm farm equipment, and well buy your worms.

Recent case: Since 2021, a company called Agridime has raised $191 million from more than 2,100 investors in what the SEC says is a Ponzi scheme. The company allegedly agreed to sell investors beef calves for $2,000 apiece, then buy back the same animals at a higher price after a year, guaranteeing a return of at least 15 percent and allowing participants to become a part of providing fellow Americans with the highest-quality farm-fresh beef available. Instead, the SEC says, the company acquired far fewer cattle than it sold to investors, had less than $1.5 million in cash as of last September, and made at least $58 million in Ponzi payments to investors. In its advertising, the company acknowledged, We know it sounds too good to be true.

Precious metals

In these illegal operations, salespeople persuade victims that they should move their savings out of safe, traditional investments and into gold and silver coins. These coins, the scammers say, will keep your hard-earned money safe when the economy (or the environment or the health system) inevitably collapses.

Recent case: In a settlement announced last October, the CFTC and regulators from 30 states alleged that precious metals dealer Safeguard Metals had deceived more than 450 investors by selling them $66 million in fraudulently priced silver coins. According to the settlement, the company pushed older Americans, most of whom were inexperienced investors, to empty their retirement accounts for silver purchases by preying on their fears and misrepresenting the safety of traditional retirement accounts. Sales representatives told one investor that the stock market was going to crash and the government would confiscate peoples IRAs and repeatedly called another to say hurry up and make a decision. Despite telling customers that it typically sold them silver 4 to 23 percent above its own costs, Safeguards markups actually averaged 71 percent up until 2021, according to the CFTC.
EMPIRE DIVESTS ITS USA OIL & GAS ASSETS



Sale of USA Assets

Sydney, April 12, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Empire Energy Group Ltd ( ASX:EEG ) ( EEGUF:OTCMKTS ) has entered into an unconditional agreement to sell its US oil & gas assets located in the Appalachian region for up to US$9.1 million, comprising: Upfront Cash Payment: US$5.9 million and Contingent and Solar Deferred Payments: US$3.2 million



Upon completion, Empire's US Macquarie Bank credit facility will be repaid in full and US$2.2 million in cash will be available to support the development of Empire's Beetaloo Basin assets.



Empire will retain a 3.75% carried working interest over shale formations with negligible holding costs.



There are no conditions precedent to completion and completion is expected to occur by 5pm US Eastern Time on Friday, 12 April 2024.



Following completion, Empire will be a 'pure-play' Beetaloo / McArthur Basin player listed on the ASX.



Comments from Managing Director Alex Underwood:



"The Empire team is delighted to have successfully executed its US asset divestment program.



Empire will be a pure-play Beetaloo / McArthur Basin focused developer while retaining a freecarried interest in shale rights in the United States at little to no cost to shareholders.



In 2018, Empire was carrying US$38 million of debt against its US assets, supported by only US$4 million of EBITDA to service that debt. Empire sold its Kansas assets in 2019 which reduced the US debt, and this transaction results in full repayment of the US debt and return of over US$2 million in cash to support Empire's Beetaloo-focused strategy.



Empire's Board and management thank our US employees for their loyal service over the years and we wish them the best.



Empire can now focus its full attention on the development of the world class Beetaloo Basin, which in the success case will provide the people of the Northern Territory with sorely needed energy security and employment, royalty income to the Northern Territory Government, deliver large volumes of gas into the chronically undersupplied Australian East Coast market, and provide energy security for the broader Asian region via LNG export."



Empire Energy Group Limited ("Empire") has entered into an unconditional agreement to sell Empire Energy E&P LLC ("Empire E&P") to PPP Future Development, Inc ("PPP") for up to US$9.1 million.



Empire E&P is the operating entity for all of Empire's US oil & gas assets. PPP is a privately owned, existing producer of oil & gas in New York State.



There are no conditions precedent to completion and completion is expected to occur by 5pm US Eastern Time today.



The total sale proceeds, payable in cash, are comprised of:



- Upfront Cash Payment: US$5.9 million (received by Empire);



- Contingent Deferred Payments: Up to US$2.3 million depending on future gas prices as described in Appendix A*; and



- Deferred Solar Payments: US$0.9 million.



Deferred Solar Payments



On 28 November 2022, Empire executed a Mutual Use Agreement ("MUA") with Connect Gen, a developer and operator of renewable energy projects across the United States, for the use of surface rights over 2,056 acres of land which Empire holds oil & gas leases in Chautauqua County, New York State (the South Ripley Solar Project). Consideration payable by Connect Gen included deferred payments. Empire will continue to receive the outstanding cash payments under the MUA as follows:



- US$200,000 on the earlier of commencement of construction or June 2024;



- US$200,000 on the earlier of commencement of construction or September 2024; and



- US$500,000 on the earlier of commencement of commercial operations or June 2026.



Retained Carried Working Interest



Empire will retain an economic interest in the shale formations sitting below Empire E&P's New York State conventional producing oil & gas wells via the retention of a 3.75% free carried working interest on all formations below the base of the Medina Sandstone formation. The retained interest will be held at negligible cost to Empire's shareholders.



*To view further details, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/J57GC0P3





About Empire Energy Group Ltd





Empire Energy (ASX:EEG) (OTCMKTS:EEGUF) is a Sydney based Australian oil and gas company holding 100%-owned and operated assets with unconventional targets in the Northern Territory Beetaloo Sub-basin and central trough of the McArthur Basin.

Empire is an active Beetaloo Sub-basin operator, focused on maturing its assets to production. Following the successful appraisal drilling and flow testing of the Carpentaria-2H and 3H wells in Empire's EP187, Empire is targeting first gas flow in H1 2025 at its Carpentaria Pilot Project. The Pilot has a targeted sales gas rate of up to 25 TJ per day utilising the existing McArthur River Pipeline.

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With brands increasingly sharpening their focus on regional markets, events and festivals in the regional markets offer brands and marketers fresh opportunities to increase reach and engagement.

Poila Boishakh or Noboborsho is celebrated as the Bengali New Year on April 15. Boishakh also marks the beginning of the New Year in Assam (Bihu), Tripura, Jharkhand, Punjab (Baisakhi), Kerala (Vishu), Tamil Nadu (Puthandu). The festivities are marked by shopping, gifting and exchanging sweets, as well as holding cultural shows and handcrafts exhibitions across the states.

Over the years, Poila Baishakh has come to be considered as an ideal opportunity for brands to leverage new and innovative festive marketing strategies for establishing stronger and more meaningful relationships with the consumers, reaching newer cohorts, and reinventing their targeting strategy, further strengthening their brand image. Consumers, especially Bengalis, connect more with brands with whom they resonate on a personal, cultural or traditional level. Brands utilize this festive period to add a greater amount of value to the lives of consumers through their unique storytelling strategies, bringing forth crisp new ideas, concepts, and a sense of ebullience, enhancing top-of-mind recall, brand awareness, and strengthening the brand positioning. Brands in West Bengal, specifically those present in Kolkata come up with special offers, discounts, personalized communication or messaging, and brand visuals for the consumers, imbuing a spirit of Poila Baishakh into their lives, making them go into a celebratory mood.

Adgully delves into the festive marketing strategies by brands around Poila Boishakh this year, amid frenetic election campaigning for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Discussing about how AdCounty Media is preparing to tap into the opportunity provided by Poila Boishakh and the marketing as well as the campaign strategy around the same this year, Delphin Varghese, Co-founder & Chief Revenue Officer, AdCounty Media, shared how AdCounty Media's marketing and campaign strategy is revolving around the celebration of the essence of Poila Boishakh while being in alignment with its offerings and brand values. Elaborating on the content strategy of AdCounty Media for Poila Baishakh this year, he pointed out, As we approach Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, our brand is poised to seize the opportunity. We aim to create engaging and culturally resonant content that highlights the traditions, customs, and festivities associated with Poila Boishakh. To reach our target audience effectively, this content will be shared across various digital platforms, including social media channels, email newsletters, and our website. We shall leverage the spirit of community and togetherness that characterizes Poila Boishakh by organizing special events and promotions. These initiatives will foster a sense of belonging among our customers and showcase our brand's commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusivity.

He also informed about how the marketing efforts of AdCounty Media will extend beyond digital platforms to include collaborations with local influencers, community organizations, and cultural institutions. These partnerships will help it to amplify its brand message and establish a deeper connection with its audience.

Speaking about the objective for Poila Boishakh this year, he said, Our goal is to create a memorable and immersive experience for our customers during Poila Boishakh while reinforcing our brand identity and values. Through a strategic blend of engaging content, promotions, events, and partnerships, we aim to position ourselves as a trusted partner in celebrating this auspicious occasion.

Sudip Mullick, Co-owner, Balaram Mullick, and Radharaman Mullick & Owner of Bonne Femme, shared how Bonne Femme will make the most out of Poila Boishakh by inculcating festive decor inside the restaurant, specialized promotions, or unique menu items. He said, The Bengali New Year is a celebration with great cultural significance. Through its marketing activities, Bonne Femme restaurant may capitalize on this opportunity by recognizing the significance of the festival.

On the marketing strategy of Ibis Kolkata Rajarhat, Amita Mishra, General Manager, Accor, mentioned about two strategies for leveraging the occasion of Poila Baishakh  which are by providing special offers and promotions including offering special discounts, promotions, or exclusive deals during the Poila Boishakh period to attract customers. This could involve limited-time offers on products or services that are relevant to the occasion. The other strategy is social media campaigns, where social media platforms will be utilised to launch targeted campaigns around Poila Boishakh, creating captivating and engaging content that fosters participation and interaction from its audience.

Mehernosh Pithawalla, EVP & Head of Brand & Strategic Insights, Godrej & Boyce, shared how digitalization has brought about a transformative wave in Eastern markets, providing exciting growth opportunities for Godrej & Boyce and how the Eastern region has long been a focal point for them, consistently proving to be one of their most significant target markets.

He noted, The extensive adoption of mobile and social media platforms has fundamentally reshaped our interactions with consumers. In todays dynamic landscape, crafting culturally relevant marketing campaigns isnt just important; its essential and social media stands as a crucial communication tool in this endeavour. Leveraging data analytics from these platforms, we meticulously craft targeted online marketing strategies tailored to each brand under the Godrej & Boyce umbrella. Our esteemed brands such as Godrej Appliances, Godrej Security Solutions, Godrej Locks, and Godrej Interio often seize the festive season to offer special incentives, ensuring maximum impact among consumers.

Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers, shared how Kalyan Jewellers is coming up with a new campaign on the occasion of Poila Boishakh this year, which is about the celebration of the newly discovered camaraderie, companionship, and personal transformation that arrives with marriage. He said, Celebrating the auspicious occasion of Pohela Boishakh, we have introduced an all-new digital campaign headlined by our regional brand ambassador for the state of West Bengal  Ritabhari Chakraborty.

He further added, At Kalyan Jewellers, we have been successful in creating a distinctive positioning as India's national hyper-local jeweler. Over the years, we have developed a strong understanding of consumer preferences in the region, offering a customized service-backed shopping experience to patrons. The digital film features jewelry designs from our Sankalp jewelry line, which encompasses a range of traditional yellow gold jewellery with intricate enamel Meenakari designs. The jewellery line takes inspiration from the cultural ethos, tailored to cater to local tastes while celebrating the vibrant Bangla spirit.

Vaibhav Bhanchawat, Chief Operating Officer, India & Foods Business, Marico Limited, pointed out how festivals & food in India go hand in hand to bring shared joy and how Saffola always looks forward to the festival of Poila Boishakh to bring alive this shared joy for its consumers. He said, This year, we are hosting an interactive activation with local influencers from Kolkata, offering them a first-hand experience of Indias Softest Soya Chunks in an engaging manner. Todays contemporary consumers demand a perfect balance between health, taste, and convenience; therefore, the activity will be followed by the influencers cooking some of the most relished Poila Boishakh recipes with a healthier twist using Saffola Soya Chunks. Over the years, Poila Boishakh has evolved into a great opportunity to connect with consumers in West Bengal. However, in today's digital era, brands need to be cognizant of not just sharing content with consumers, but making it relevant and relatable too.

Poila Baishakh  A marketing occasion for brands

Delphin Varghese discussed about how Poila Boishakhs evolution into a powerful marketing platform highlights its undeniable relevance for todays consumers. Brands that acknowledge and embrace its cultural significance can leverage this auspicious occasion to forge stronger connections with consumers and achieve significant business growth.

He also shared about how Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, has transcended its traditional roots to become a vibrant cultural phenomenon. This growing popularity reflects its deep significance and widespread celebration. He said, Whats exciting for brands? Poila Boishakh offers a unique chance to connect with consumers on a deeper level. He pointed out the strategies for leveraging the occasion of Poila Baishakh in a more worthwhile manner which are as follows:

Emotional Connection : The festive spirit and strong sense of community during Poila Boishakh allows brands to engage with their audience in a meaningful way. By tapping into the emotional pull of the occasion, brands can forge stronger relationships.

: The festive spirit and strong sense of community during Poila Boishakh allows brands to engage with their audience in a meaningful way. By tapping into the emotional pull of the occasion, brands can forge stronger relationships. Themed Marketing Magic : Aligning products and services with the themes of tradition, renewal, and celebration is a winning strategy. Special promotions, curated collections reflecting the festive spirit, and well-organized events can all capitalize on the surge in consumer interest during Poila Boishakh.

: Aligning products and services with the themes of tradition, renewal, and celebration is a winning strategy. Special promotions, curated collections reflecting the festive spirit, and well-organized events can all capitalize on the surge in consumer interest during Poila Boishakh. Partnerships for Authenticity: Poila Boishakh fosters cultural exchange. Partnering with local artisans, social media influencers, and cultural institutions can boost a brand's authenticity and credibility. These collaborations support local communities and help preserve cultural heritage.

Ramesh Kalyanaraman shared how hyperlocal strategy has been an integral aspect of the Kalyan Jewellers  be it in its product offering across showrooms or its marketing campaigns championing the brand. He added, We aspire to appeal to a wide audience by attempting to understand the local market preferences and trends in various geographies, which has been one of the key reasons behind the brands success across the country. Time and again, we have leveraged the occasion of Pohela Boishakh to appeal to the wider consumer base in West Bengal, which is one of the most critical markets for us. At the showroom level, to mark the occasion, we have introduced some new product offerings, as well as a range of gold and silver coins. There is a short wedding period that follows the new year and based on ongoing demand momentum, we are optimistic about consumer sentiment.

Optimizing festive marketing strategies

According to Delphin Varghese, In todays digital landscape, leveraging festive occasions for marketing has become more critical than ever. Brands constantly seek innovative ways to connect with their audience and drive engagement during these celebratory moments. The festive season brings a surge in consumer spending across various categories.

He pointed out the strategies by which brands can leverage this opportunity to maximize sales and brand awareness which are as follows:

Targeted Paid Advertising:

Use paid advertising platforms like Facebook Ads, Google Ads, and LinkedIn Ads to reach your ideal customer.

Employ audience targeting options like location, age, and interests to ensure your message reaches the right people.

Captivating Content & Social Media Magic:

Craft engaging, relatable content that resonates with the festive spirit while showcasing your brand's offerings.

During peak festive times, plan and share innovative content across social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

SEO: The Keyword Advantage:

Integrate trending and relevant keywords into your website and social media content to improve search visibility during the festive season.

Contests that Convert:

Host engaging contests on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to boost brand interaction and reach.

Targeted Email Marketing Campaigns:

Leverage email marketing to promote festive offers to your existing customer base and attract new prospects.

Ideally, launch email campaigns 15 days before major festivals like Diwali, Holi, Christmas, or New Years to capitalize on pre-festive shopping sprees.

Sudip Mullick shared about the festive marketing strategies adopted by Bonne Femme on the occasion of Poila Boishakh this year, saying, Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be used by Bonne Femme to share Poila Boishakh-themed content, encourage user-generated content, collaborate with local artists, and co-host events to increase engagement and drive foot traffic. Bengalis love to eat and enjoy trying delicious dishes from all over the world. Whether it is famous foods or traditional recipes, we are always eager to taste them wherever we go. Bonne Femme is all about celebrating the amazing food found around the world, especially comforting and soulful dishes. During Poila Boishakh, one of Bengal's biggest festivals, Bengalis also celebrate their love for food. We showcase our diverse tastes and creativity through innovative Bengali dishes.

As Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, approaches, we are delighted to extend enticing deals to our consumers. Witnessing a surge in demand for our cooling solutions amid the summer season, especially with the recent launch of our EON Vogue series of wood-finish air conditioners and refrigerators, we are offering enticing benefits such as cashback, easy EMI options, zero down payments, and extended warranties across a spectrum of products including refrigerators, air conditioners, air coolers, and deep freezers. Additionally, we are gearing up to launch localized campaigns to celebrate Poila Boishakh in style. Festive seasons not only provide a unique platform to forge deeper connections with consumers but also offer a precious opportunity to honour cherished traditions, said Mehernosh Pithawalla.

He further added, At Godrej & Boyce, we have always kept innovation at the center of everything  be it our solutions or marketing campaigns to pioneer progress for generations. Through our meticulously crafted, data-driven marketing strategies, Godrej & Boyce ensures that its brands resonate deeply with all festive celebrations.

Saket Mohta shared how Merlin Group celebrates the day with great fervor at its Acropolis Mall, with events like fashion shows in traditional attire and delectable delicacies. This attracts people who converge at the mall and indulge in shopping, with Acropolis Mall offering discounts that continue up to Poila Boishakh.

He added, Poila Boishakh celebrations have strong cultural and historical roots. It started with Bengals rural agricultural traditions. During the Mughal era, Emperor Akbar introduced the Bengali calendar to improve tax collection. After a decade, this occasion became a cultural festival in Bengali. We at Merlin Group perceive the festival as a strong marketing platform. Our country is a land of festivals which bind people together and Paila Baisakh is an auspicious occasion for people to buy new homes. We leverage this occasion at our resort Ibiza the Fern Resort & Spa and Princeton Club and hold traditional Bengali food festival for our guests. Our brands leverage digital marketing platforms and social media handles to make people aware of our offers.

Ramesh Kalyanaraman pointed out how Kalyan Jewellers has introduced changes to its media mix with a more digital-centric approach, which has played a key role in targeting next-gen consumers. It is now focusing on developing content in various shorter formats to amplify across digital platforms, especially for its vernacular campaigns. He said: "In recent years, we have witnessed a phenomenal increase in screen time spent by Indians towards digital, social media, and OTT platforms. Keeping up with these changing times, it has become imperative for brands to align their marketing budget towards new-age mediums. We believe this strategy is helping us achieve higher penetration in newer markets, leading to an uptick in our market share.
Mark your calendars for the gripping premiere of "Faraaz" on &xplorHD, a channel renowned for its diverse content that captivates and inspires. Set for April 13th at 9 pm, this powerful masterpiece, directed by the acclaimed Hansal Mehta and starring the dynamic duo of Aditya Rawal and Zahan Kapoor delves deep into the chilling events of the 2016 Dhaka terror attack. "Unsurrender to terror," it unfolds an intense narrative of resilience and courage. Don't miss this captivating story brought to you by &xplorHD, a channel that consistently delivers engaging and varied content which is UNroutine, UNexpected, and UNformula

"Faraaz" transcends the boundaries of a typical hostage thriller, offering a poignant exploration of how individuals from privileged backgrounds, despite their progressive education, can fall prey to extremist ideologies. It's a gut-wrenching narrative where courage faces its ultimate test amidst terror, unfolding over a single, intense night of survival.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers embark on a gripping emotional journey in 'Faraaz,' experiencing intense moments and heartfelt scenes that highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith. The film doesn't surrender to the darkness of terror but illuminates the path of hope, inspiring viewers to stand up and find light amidst adversity.

With visionary Director Hansal Mehta at the helm, "Faraaz" seeks to uncover the depths of that fateful day and how it impacted lives, refusing to surrender to fear or prejudice. He expresses, I want the audience to find more about that day and how it impacted lives.' The immersive experience of 'Faraaz' goes beyond mere enjoyment, it's a spectacle that captivates and immerses the audience. The film's powerful sound design and visual storytelling create an unforgettable journey that leaves a lasting impact. Join us on &xplorHD on 13th April at 9pm and get a glimpse of the actual story, delving into themes of courage, resilience, and the unwavering human spirit

The immersive experience of 'Faraaz' goes beyond mere enjoyment; it's a spectacle that captivates and immerses the audience in the Unsurrendered resolve of the human spirit. Zahan Kapoor expresses, I am eagerly anticipating the audience's experience of 'Faraaz' on &xplorHD this 13th April. I feel honored to make my debut in a film that breaks the mold, telling a genuine story to the audience. Coming from a family with a legacy of films, I have always been deeply attached to cinema in one way or another. I knew from the start that this was the industry where I wanted to carve out my place. 'Faraaz' has been an immensely fulfilling journey. It's not just about the outcome but the process itself, collaborating with passionate souls dedicated to bringing stories to life.

Aditya Rawal, the son of Paresh Rawal, shares "Taking up my role in 'Faraaz' was an enlightening experience and an opportunity. Working with Hansal Mehta allowed me to discover characters amidst brutality, showcasing the beauty of our profession. It's been a rewarding journey, and I can't wait for viewers to witness this impactful narrative."

The tense hostage drama depicted in 'Faraaz' unfolds over one claustrophobic night, amplifying the urgency and bravery of those involved.

Join us on &xplorHD on 13th April at 9 pm to witness the Unsurrendered tale of courage, resilience, and the unwavering human spirit, as we refuse to bow down to terror and instead rise above it.
Authored by Anubhuti Sharma, Founder, Impresario Global

In a country, social sector funding faces a looming deficit, philanthropy finds itself at a critical juncture. India's social sector spending has seen a remarkable annual growth of 13% over the last five years, yet private philanthropy struggles to keep pace, growing only at a moderate 10% in FY 2023. As the gap between resources and needs widens, the imperative for innovative solutions becomes ever more pressing.

However, philanthropy, as we know it, has silently metamorphosized processes to enable a more impactful outreach. This change is fueled by MarTech. As nonprofits grapple with fundraising shortfalls, the rise of artificial intelligence, and the urgent need for social change, MarTech is enabling philanthropies and impact investment organizations to bridge the widening resource gap and amplify their impact. All civic stakeholders - Donors, Corporates, Civil society organizations and good governance, are an equal part in the engine that is MarTech, to propel the impact of prosocial behaviour.

MarTech is termed an engine for philanthropy because it is an arsenal that has a use case beyond corporate purposes of convincing people to buy products. This is a toolbox of software and platforms that helps prosocial businesses run their marketing, with functions like content creation, email marketing, social media management, and customer relationship management (CRM) all rolled into one. Thus, in the philanthropic landscape, MarTech acts as a connective tissue, allowing donors to connect with relevant impact organizations, corporates to design effective cause marketing campaigns, civil society organizations to segment their donor base and craft targeted communication, and governments to amplify policy level changes, at scale.

The lifeline behind this ecosystem is data. Just like financial markets rely on a steady flow of capital, MarTech thrives on the responsible collection, analysis, and utilization of data. This data provides crucial insights into donor behaviour, campaign effectiveness, and social impact. While MarTech contains a plethora of quantifiers to measure performance and customer network, it can be made even more powerful by coupling it with the tool of impact multiple of money (IMM). Companies with a social purpose and a potentially measurable impact may get a green light for IMM evaluation, and corporates can set a threshold of minimum return of investment, to ensure their social impact efforts are not just well-intentioned, but demonstrably effective.

Bain and Co. reports a positive shift in corporate giving. The number of companies complying with the CSR mandate (2% of profits) has risen. Additionally, the participation of non-BSE 200 companies in CSR initiatives has grown from 50% in FY 2018 to 59% in FY 2022. To harness this wind as a sail, MarTech competencies can enable philanthropic organizations to target and engage with these increasingly purpose-driven corporations. Civil Society organizations can tailor their outreach and engagement strategies, across volunteers, donors, and governments, using MarTech. As businesses are transforming models to generate cash flow corresponding to the social impact they create, it is pivotal for civil society organizations to anticipate the regulatory, consumer and investor push they will face in the coming years.

Resultantly, the Indian government has introduced incentives for the upskilling and assimilation of Indian workforce. As of November 2023, over 3000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have registered to be a part of the ONDC network through various Seller Network Participants. Around 400 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), micro-entrepreneurs and social sector enterprises have been onboarded on the network. This indicates that in the tech for social impact space, there lies an opportunity for deepening public-private partnerships, focusing on capacity building among local communities, by equipping them with digital skills and entrepreneurial mindsets, and building trust through robust data protection measures.

For example, civil society organisations can create training programs to equip volunteers, small and medium business owners, beneficiaries with the digital skills necessary to leverage MarTech effectively. This includes training on data analysis, social media management, and content creation. This is how the governments, civil service organisations, doors, and corporates can play a key role in strengthening the capacities of MarTech to work for prosocial behaviour.

Public-Private Partnerships 2.0

India's social sector is booming, with spending reaching a staggering INR 23 lakh crore ($280 billion) in FY 2023. However, there lies a funding gap of INR 15 lakh crore, that will loom by FY 2028, threatening to disrupt the progress. This gap translates to real people  children who might miss education, families struggling with healthcare, communities battling environmental issues.

2024 demands a digital leap for enabling the success of public-private partnerships. The donor landscape is changing, competition is fierce, and traditional B2C marketing tactics in a one-size-fits-all manner is no longer sufficient. The future of social good demands transparency and a human touch, that assess prosocial behaviour as well as forecast future returns for long-term impact sustenance. And for this, we need MarTech tools specifically designed for the social sector.

Imagine rural communities and corporations sharing expertise, social media igniting donor engagement with impactful reminders that can increase engagement significantly, and compelling narratives inspiring continued support. MarTech empowers the social sector, fostering collaboration between nonprofits, government agencies, and the private sector. This ensures every rupee translates to real, lasting change.
Laqshya Media Group, India's leading independent, comprehensive marketing communications group, successfully executed the OOH campaign for The Roadster Life Co., a renowned fashion and lifestyle brand available on Myntra. The campaign Trends with Benefits featured brand ambassadors, ace stand-up comedian Zakir Khan and Bollywood diva Jacqueline Fernandez.

Laqshya Media Group's creative approach transformed billboards into eye-catching displays. They created a show-stopping display in Lucknow, along with many other innovations in multiple cities. A massive 60Ft x 30Ft billboard featured a custom mega cutout of Jacqueline Fernandez. The impact was amplified by extending the design down the supporting pole using 500 Sq Ft of real denim, meticulously crafted by master tailors and fabricators. This innovative approach blurred the lines between traditional advertising and a three-dimensional fashion installation. In a coordinated effort, Laqshya Media Group deployed over 110+ strategically placed hoardings across Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, further amplifying the campaigns reach and impact. These impactful OOH placements effectively communicated the brands Trends with Benefits positioning, highlighting its commitment to providing trendy yet comfortable and practical fashion for all.

We are thrilled to have partnered with The Roadster Life Co. on this groundbreaking campaign. Our innovative OOH solutions effectively captured the brand's attention and drove significant sales growth, said Amarjeet Hudda, COO of Laqshya Media Limited.
Shalimar Paints Ltd., a pioneer in the Indian Paints industry with a legacy of over 120 years, today announced the appointment of C Venugopal as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). This strategic move reflects the companys commitment to driving growth and reinforcing its dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and unparalleled quality.

Venugopal, a seasoned leader with 30 years of business leadership and retail experience, has a proven track record of profitability and business growth through strategic thinking, marketing excellence, and operational expertise. He has spearheaded initiatives aimed at fostering a more focused, growth-oriented, and sustainable business model. Aligned with Shalimar 2.0's vision of transforming into a new-age, tech-driven organization, Venugopal is poised to lead the organization's growth strategy, setting new industry benchmarks.



"We are delighted to welcome Venugopal, a dynamic, values-driven business leader with a diverse experience, as the COO of Shalimar Paints. With his depth of expertise in strategic capabilities, operational effectiveness, and a strong track record in both developed and developing markets, we are confident that he will deliver excellence and innovation at scale for the benefit of all stakeholders, said Aaditya Sharda, Co-founder of Infra.Market and Director on the board of Shalimar Paints Ltd.



Before joining Shalimar Paints Ltd., Venugopal held pivotal roles at Morton Foods Ltd., Umang Diaries Ltd., Nippon Paints India, and Kansai Nerolac Paints, leaving a lasting impact. He has also made noteworthy contributions at companies including Godrej Sara Lee, Reckitt Benckiser, CavinKare, Cussons India Pvt Ltd and Pepsi Foods Ltd. Renowned for his innovative drive, vision, and ability to drive transformative change, he is widely regarded as a persistent innovator and team motivator.



C Venugopal, COO, Shalimar Paints Ltd. said, "I am thrilled to take on the leadership position at Shalimar Paints, a company with a rich legacy that continues to meet the needs of today's rapidly evolving consumers. My focus will remain on enhancing business performance and foster growth through technology-driven services and innovations. Together with the talented team, I am eager to navigate the progressing landscape and propel the company to new heights of success.



In its unwavering legacy of excellence, Shalimar Paints provides a broad range of paints and coatings, pioneering innovation and setting new industry benchmarks to meet diverse customer preferences and requirements. The company plans to take its product offerings beyond national standards and manufacture international level products within the country with modernized and automated facilities as the key pillars.
According to sources, Snapchat India has made a significant addition to its senior leadership team by appointing Saket Jha Saurabh. With an illustrious career spanning various sectors, Saurabh brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

Prior to joining Snapchat India, Saurabh served as the Director and Head of Media Partnerships at Meta, where he played a pivotal role in fostering relationships with India's leading TV networks, creators, public figures, and other entities. His strategic insights and leadership were instrumental in scaling up Meta products such as Instagram Reels, FB Watch, and FB Ad Breaks through strategic partnerships.

Saurabh's career boasts leadership positions in Big Tech, award-winning digital startups, and prominent media companies in India. His diverse background includes roles at Fame Digital, Network18, CNBC-TV18, and the India Today Group.

During his tenure as Business Head-Digital at Bloomberg, Saurabh led monetization strategies, including branded content and sponsorship solutions, contributing significantly to Bloomberg's digital growth and revenue streams.

Saurabh holds an MBA degree from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management  Communications and Brand Management from MICA Ahmedabad. His expertise in business growth, strategic partnerships, and digital monetization strategies positions him as a valuable addition to Snapchat India's leadership team.

Snapchat India's decision to onboard Saket Jha Saurabh underscores its commitment to driving innovation and growth in the dynamic Indian market. Saurabh's appointment is expected to further strengthen Snapchat's position as a leading platform for creative expression and communication in India.
This Monday, the advertising industry woke up to The Times of India printed with their names. The Times Power of Print competition is back and this time, it is supported by the Election Commission of India. The brief for advertisers is to encourage people to vote in the upcoming elections. Wondrlab's team used this call-for-entry opportunity and created a personalised campaign that encourages advertisers to participate in the Times Power of Print.

The Times of India and Wondrlab personalised newspapers for agencies and made ads for advertisers calling them to participate personally. The personalised newspapers reached the offices of Ogilvy, Leo Burnett, BBH, FCB, DDB Mudra, Lowe Lintas, just to name a few. So, when the teams walked in, they would see an ad on the front page of The Times of India, made just for them.

Ogilvy got their personalised copy of The Times of India with the front page saying, It will take a five-star campaign from Ogilvy to get Suresh & Ramesh & the rest of India to vote." While Leo Burnetts front page said, Leo Burnett, use the power of the black pencil to rewrite voter turnout..

Wondrlabs CCO, Amit Akali, while telling us what went behind the scenes of the campaign, said, Creativity can really change human behaviour. We have seen it time and time again. So, to get more voters to exercise their right to vote, a creative idea is needed to make that happen. And our aim was to kickstart the creativity of the industry, with a creative idea of our own. By personalising the newspaper itself. Ads written for them using nuances about their agencies, which called them out to create a campaign that gets people to vote.

Sagnik Ghosh - Head of Creative Strategy, Innovations, Branded Content and Trade Marketing for BCCL Response, Times of India, talking about the campaign, said, The Times Power of Print, now in its 5th edition and supported by the Election Commission of India, returns with a fervour. We are excited about the brief, which urges people to use their right to voteit is a chance to make a difference and change lives. We strongly believe that every creative agency should take advantage of this opportunity and participate. To add a unique twist to our call for entry campaign, we personalized newspapers and extended invitations to agencies. We hope the brief piqued their interest as much as it did ours. We have put together an exciting campaign and cannot wait to see the entries."

The winners of the competition get to see their campaign published in The Times of India publications and receive a fully paid trip to the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity in 2025.

To learn more about the contest, visit: https://timespowerofprint.in/
Pochiraju will report to Gaurav Kumar Dewani, who serves as the revenue head for special projects at NDTV

Venkat Pochiraju has been appointed as the Regional Head  South (Special Projects) at NDTV, effective as of yesterday. He brings with him extensive experience, previously serving as the General Manager and Region Head  South at Times Network.

In his new role, Pochiraju will be responsible for overseeing the sales of new and existing intellectual properties, brand solutions, and media partnerships across news channels and digital platforms at NDTV. He will report to Gaurav Kumar Dewani, who heads revenue for special projects.

Announcing his new position on LinkedIn, Pochiraju expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. Prior to joining NDTV, he held various roles at Times Network and RED FM. His diverse experience also includes stints at Sony Pictures Network India, 9X Media Pvt. Ltd, and GroupM, among others.

With over 19 years of experience in the media industry, Pochiraju has established himself as a dynamic Sales Leader with a proven track record of driving revenue growth, ensuring client satisfaction, and delivering innovative solutions. His expertise spans advertising sales, media buying, IP sales, branded content, and new business development across diverse genres and markets.
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Basel, 12.04.2024 - The third International Cooperation Forum (IC Forum) concluded today in Basel. Over 1,000 representatives from politics, business, science, and civil society gathered alongside President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd, FDFA head Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, and Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde to discuss the theme of peace promotion. Discussions centred on three core values: critical dialogue, trust, and innovation, all aimed at finding new pathways for tangible and sustainable progress. A highlight of the 2024 forum was the Swiss IC Awards, recognising innovative peace-building projects by Swiss companies.

Armed conflicts, food crises, migration, and natural disasters pose significant challenges to achieving peace and demand a well-coordinated, strategic response from the international community. In light of these contemporary challenges, the FDFA placed the theme of peace at the core of the 3rd IC Forum, which brought together around 1,000 international cooperation actors from more than 100 countries for two days in Basel. About 700 people also participated online.



Peace is lasting when human rights are respected, when basic needs are satisfied and when education is guaranteed. Peace-building is an ongoing effort, emphasised the President of Ethiopia and guest of honour at the forum, Ms Sahle-Work Zewde, in her opening speech. The thematic panels held during the IC Forum 2024 echoed this conclusion. The discussions, debates, and meetings fostered networking and laid the groundwork for new collaborative initiatives geared towards achieving concrete and sustainable progress. The discussions explored the three pillars of international cooperation: humanitarian aid, development cooperation and peace promotion. "There is no magic formula for establishing peace and guaranteeing human dignity. But Switzerland, with its long diplomatic tradition in peace promotion, has a role to play," stressed Cassis.



Swiss IC Award: innovation in international cooperation



Swiss companies, SMEs and start-ups that put new technologies to work for peace were honoured at the Swiss IC Awards. Of the ten projects selected by a panel of experts, AIDONIC, BREATH Medical and AGEOSPATIAL were presented with a Swiss IC Award by Mr Cassis.



AIDONIC aims to make humanitarian and development aid more effective using artificial intelligence, blockchain and other digital payment solutions. BREATH Medical aims to revolutionise medical education and training in low-resource areas through its digital training platform. Finally, AGEOSPATIAL uses artificial intelligence to make the analysis of geographical data accessible on a large scale. The three winning projects will have the opportunity to test their solutions in a developing country with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) of the FDFA.



At the IC Forum in Basel, young people from Switzerland's three language regions also presented the first Basel Manifesto for Future Peace, showcasing their ideas and commitment to contributing to world peace.



Switzerland's role in peace promotion



Beyond the IC Forum, Switzerland actively promotes peace through various initiatives.

As part of its ongoing peace promotion efforts. Switzerland will host a high-level conference on peace in Ukraine, which is scheduled for June 2024 at the Burgenstock resort, aiming to facilitate dialogue and identify pathways to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.



A fourth edition in 2025



The sustainable economy will be the central theme of IC Forum 2025, which will be jointly organised by the SDC and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). The fourth edition of the IC Forum will be held on 27 and 28 February 2025 at ETH Zurich.

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




Are MNS members unhappy with Raj Thackeray's continued support for the BJP? 2

In response to Raj Thackerays announcement that the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) would support the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, senior leaders and cadre resigned in protest.

MNS general secretary Kirtikumar Shinde recently resigned from the party, explaining his decision on Facebook.

Some questioned the existence of their party, and others may follow in the footsteps of party chief Raj Thackeray. Despite the fact that his party was not contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha election, Raj Thackeray campaigned against the BJP, specifically against PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.

Many prominent MNS leaders left the party prior to the elections, including Vaishali Darekar-Rane, who is now running for Shiv Sena (UBT) in the Kalyan constituency, and Vasant More, who is running on the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi ticket in the Pune constituency; both cited internal party politics as their reasons.

MNS North Mumbai Vice-President Nayan Kadam told Afternoon Voice that Vasant More vacated the seat because he demanded an MPs seat but was unqualified for the position,

Furthermore, he stated that if we must support Maharashtra, which party should we support? Is there any other options? We agree that the BJP has given tickets to those who were facing ED and CBI allegations against them, and they are now clean in the BJPs washing machine.

Dilip Datir, the former MNS chief from Nashik who left the party last year for personal reasons, stated that the MNS party will follow in the footsteps of Raj Thackeray, who may have considered all of the benefits and drawbacks before supporting the BJP and the Modi government. MNS was supposed to compete for the 5-3 seat, but now there is none. Raj Thackeray believes that if he runs for Lok Sabha, he will fight with all of his heart.
Alabama legislators are pushing to make librarians move inappropriate books for children in order to get millions of dollars in funding.

That funding is contingent on a code change that hasnt happened yet. A public comment period is still open for multiple rules that would impact how libraries handle content dealing with sex, gender and LGBTQ issues.

For public libraries to receive $6.6 million in funding for fiscal year 2025, a public library must be in compliance with the Governors proposed amendments to the Alabama Public Library Service code, which includes moving books deemed inappropriate for children and teenagers.

The budget passed the House Ways and Means Education Committee on Wednesday and will be on the floor of the House before the public comment period ends.

We believe these are good recommendations, said Rep. Danny Garrett, (R-Jefferson County) House Ways and Means Education Committee chair.

He told AL.com that the changes reflect legislators conversations over the last year. The budget amendment comes after months of upheaval among communities statewide regarding sexual and LGBTQ+ books primarily geared toward young adults.

These are not book banning restrictions, Garrett said. Its a very deliberative process. This is the overwhelming thinking of the legislature.

Garrett said legislators have limited time to make decisions because the legislature only meets for 30 out of the 105 days in session. He said this months public comment period would be considered for the next budget cycle.

The budget amendment is the third legislative action taken regarding libraries in the last week. Two bills were filed last week to make public school, university, and public librarians liable for obscene content checked out by minors and to prohibit libraries from joining the American Library Association.

The proposed library code amendments include the following:

In order to receive state aid, a library board must approve written policies for the public library which cover the following: Physical location (and relocation of sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Advance approval of materials recommended, displayed, or otherwise actively promoted to children or youth.

Exercising discretion in the location of sexually explicit material or other material deemed by the public library board to be inappropriate for children or youth does not constitute a denial of service on the basis of age. Taking age into account when recommending, displaying, or otherwise actively promoting library materials does not constitute a denial of service on the basis of age.

Any expenditure of public funds to the American Library Association must be approved by the governing board of the public library or public library system in an open, public meeting following advance public notice.

In a statement, anti-censorship group Read Freely Alabama called the amendment a direct and intentional subversion of the established legal process with the goal to suppress the voices of Alabamians they disagree with.

This move will not only further target library professionals, but punish citizens for daring to exercise their right to participate in the established process for changes to the codes by which their public libraries operate, the group said. Their biggest concern is how this unethical tampering will affect libraries in economically disadvantaged or rural areas.

The group wrote to the Alabama Finances and Budget Committee in February with concerns about Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Shelby County), who told the library service board in recent meetings that they must adopt the code changes before the legislature adjourns.

DuBose told AL.com she saw the budget amendment but did not request it. I had nothing to do with that, she said. Im aware that it is there.

Stephanie Williams, who challenged several books at the Foley Library, said in an email the proposed change is a good start in this highly incendiary debate.

I remain saddened that it is even necessary to codify common sense protections of minors from sexual predation, but here we are in 2024 Alabama.

The public comment period ends at 4:30 p.m. on April 29, and the public library service hearing is at 10 a.m. on April 30.

Comments about the proposed code changes should be mailed or hand-delivered to Vanessa Carr, Executive Secretary, at the Alabama Public Library Service office at 6030 Monticello Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117.

At the public hearing, each person can speak for up to three minutes. Potential speakers should request to make oral comments to vcarr@apls.state.al.us no later than 4:30 p.m. on April 29. APLS will determine the order of oral statements by the requested date.
Alabama education officials got good news Thursday about the graduating class of 2023: More students are graduating high school, and are doing so prepared for college and jobs.

The percentage of students graduating on-time, defined as graduating four years after being a first-time high school freshman, rose to 90%, up from 88.2% for the class of 2022. And the percentage of all students who are ready for college or a career was up, too: From 79% in 2022 to 84% in 2023.

Alabama State Superintendent Eric Mackey told board members that $10 million in state funding lawmakers provided to beef up college and career readiness offerings in schools made a difference.

CCR grants came from a discussion of board members around this table, Mackey said, that if were going to require all of our students to have a CCR to graduate, we need to support our schools to get there. So lets go ask the legislature for money.

Lawmakers funded the grants last year, he said, and it looks like theyll fund them for this year, too. The current supplemental education appropriation, HB144, shows a $17 million appropriation for the grants.

Assistant Superintendent Melissa Shields told board members that the state sends funding and support to high schools with large amounts of at-risk students.

Some schools are offering twilight school, or classes in the evenings, for students who need to work during the day. Others are offering childcare for students who are also parents, Shields said.

Instructional Services Coordinator Sean Stevens said the grants help schools implement new programming and push students forward.

We were able to prioritize [grants] based on those schools that had a 15-point gap between their graduation rate in their college and career readiness rate, Stevens said. Many of those schools were able to receive close to $400,000.

Schools used the grants in many different ways, he said.

Those grants have been able to fund students going on college tours, business and industry tours and provided test prep for students and preparing the teachers in the building to help students with test prep.

Grants were also used to pay for scholarships for dual enrollment and training for teachers to teach dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, he said.

Beginning with the class of 2026, all students must earn one of the following credentials that indicate the graduate is college or career ready in order to get a diploma:

A benchmark score on the ACT college entrance exam,

A qualifying score of three or higher on an Advanced Placement exam,

A qualifying score of four or higher on an International Baccalaureate exam,

Earning college credit while in high school,

Earning silver or gold status on the ACT WorkKeys exam,

Completing an in-school youth apprenticeship program,

Earning a career technical industry credential listed on the compendium of valuable credentials of the Alabama Committee on Credentialing and Career Pathways,

Attaining career and technical education completer status, or

Being accepted into a branch of the military before graduation

District- and school-level graduation rates are not yet publicly available, according to education officials. Click here to see college and career readiness rates for the class of 2022.
One is an event. Two starts a pattern. The social Gemini moon illuminates patterns of human behavior. Automatic reactions are signs of character. Motivations, moves and manipulations also come to light. Understanding peoples reasons and patterns makes us better predictors of behavior, which increases personal power and effectiveness.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Even in your most work-a-day mode you still feel astonishment at lifes essentials, like breath, warmth and the privilege of another trip around the sun. Youll celebrate the mere sense of being in the flow of life.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). For optimum processing speed, your brain requires rest, play and exercise among other things. Sometimes you keep sharp by letting yourself be the opposite. Diffused, random, relaxed silliness can be restorative.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Its said that lessons get repeated until they are learned. But no one can learn everything, nor should you try. If you can go a different way and avoid the issue altogether, do it. If that lesson is important, it will pop up again.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Self-compassion improves interpersonal dynamics because its easier to have compassion for others when your soul and psyche experience the peace of self-acceptance.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Today your luck will run on momentum. It will be carried on the breeze of your movement. It will dance with you when you pivot, keep pace with you when you run, loft you when you leap.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You never know whos falling in love with your smile. Being unaware of the effect you have on others only makes your magnet stronger. All your attention goes into getting to know people better and theres none left for self-doubt.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Charles R. Swindoll said, Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. Though it should be noted he was neither mathematician nor neurologist. What happens affects the plot to widely varying degrees.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Youll sort out your mind. The best way is to record all your thoughts: the good, the bad, the ridiculous and logical alike. Look at them in the light of tomorrow and then distill into a few sentences of clarity.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). The project thats worthy of you will sharpen your mind. You will execute each step with purpose. Youll study the larger context and youll get feedback. Careful thought leads to stellar results.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your connection to others dials you into deeper parts of yourself. Youll add to your social network, either by finding people who belong in it or honing your rules and standards on interactions with people who dont.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Spin your thinking to your own benefit. When you focus on what you have in the spirit of love, celebration and enjoyment, you are rich. When you give a holistic look at what you lack, you are free. Every gift comes with responsibility.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). For you, its easy to find beauty because you go by what you like. You cant use the same method for truth. Truth doesnt require you to like it, it remains the same regardless of public opinion. Today youll seek and know it.

TODAYS BIRTHDAY (April 12). Youll find the lucrative side of your talents. Youll leave holes in your schedule for your creativity to pool inside, then make things worthy of celebration. Those celebrations will lead to more findings, creations and celebrations. More highlights: You advance your work through fearless authenticity. Youll experience a love that blossoms in unexpected ways. Libra and Gemini adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 15, 20, 1, 18 and 42.

Holiday Mathis debut novel, How To Fail Epically in Hollywood, is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com. COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM
This story is republished with permission from The Birmingham Times.

An inaugural group of 15 Birmingham City Schools juniors and sophomores will be headed to Japan this year as part of the International Dual Enrollment Academy (IDEA), a global studies program to equip Birmingham students with the skills, experiences, and relationships to thrive in an interconnected world.

Birmingham Sister Cities, in partnership with Miles College and Birmingham City Schools, made the announcement on Monday. The program runs from May 6 to December 11.

The IDEA program blends dual enrollment coursework at Miles College, extensive cultural enrichment activities, and an immersive travel-abroad experience.

Participating students will earn nine college credit hours, receive a stipend of at least $500 when completed, and have the opportunity to attend the Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.

International exposure and international opportunity are important factors in students college and career readiness, said Jessica Findley Valentin, Interim Executive Director of Birmingham Sister Cities. IDEA aims to provide Birmingham students with the tools they need to compete on the world stage and become global ambassadors for our city.

Its really special that the inaugural IDEA cohort is traveling to Japan, as our very first Sister City agreement was signed in April of 1982 with the City of Hitachi, Japan, said Blair Minyard, Board Chair of Birmingham Sister Cities. For more than 40 years Birmingham Sister Cities has been working to connect Birmingham with the world, and were equally committed to ensuring that this program has a lasting impact on our students, our schools, our city, and our broader global community.

The International Dual Enrollment Academy is a testament to Birminghams commitment to providing our students with world-class educational opportunities, said Mayor Randall Woodfin. This innovative program will not only prepare our young people for success in a global economy but also help to position Birmingham as a leader in international education.

Dr. Mark Sullivan, Superintendent of Birmingham City Schools, added, We are thrilled to partner with Birmingham Sister Cities and Miles College to offer this transformative program to our students. IDEA aligns perfectly with our mission to help students achieve excellence while preparing them to succeed in a global society.

Miles College President Bobbie Knight said, As the president of the college, I am deeply honored to be part of this groundbreaking initiative. The International Dual Enrollment Academy (IDEA) represents a step forward in our collective mission to equip students with the tools they need to excel in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Applications are open from March 15 to April 19, 2024, with the program running from May 6 to December 11, 2024.

For more information about the International Dual Enrollment Academy, visit https://birminghamsistercities.org/idea.
A Jefferson County grand jury has indicted two men in the shooting death of a well-known Birmingham business owner.

The grand jury issued capital murder indictments against Sebastian Ross, 24, and alleged triggerman Jaquies Hoffman, 21. The indictments were handed down March 8 and made public Friday.

Both men are charged in the killing of 44-year-old Snir Lalum, an Israeli citizen affectionately known by his friends in the U.S. as Sonny. Lalum was killed Aug. 24, 2023, at the Insta-Movers warehouse.

Ross is out of jail on bond and electronic monitoring. Hoffman remains held without bond.

Lalum left behind a wife and young son.

Testimony in a previous hearing showed a group of Lulums employees were at the nearby Circle K before going to the warehouse, which is on Walter Davis Drive in south Birmingham.

South Precinct officers were dispatched at 5:15 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, to Insta Movers at 115 Walter Davis Drive. (Carol Robinson)

Ross approached one of the young Hispanic workers while they were in line to make a purchase.

Video from the store showed the worker taking Rosss cell phone and entering his number into the phone because Ross was reportedly looking for work.

The worker told Ross he would have to talk to the boss  Lalum  about getting a job.

Birmingham homicide Det. James Glasgow testified that Ross and Hoffman then followed the Insta-Movers workers to the warehouse. Ross was seen on surveillance video first talking to the workers and then to Lalum when he arrived at work.

Glasgow said Ross could be heard saying something to Lalum in Spanish, but that the phrase he said made no sense. Lalum is Israeli, not Hispanic.

The detective then Ross, who is from Hoover, was speaking with a Spanish accent when he talked with Lalum at length, apparently describing construction work he could do at Lalums house.

Ross told Lalum he would work for cheap but wanted 50 percent up front. He then lowered that to 10 percent.

Glasgow acknowledged that Ross twice entered the warehouse, at least one of those times with Lalums permission, but was eventually told to leave, that youre not needed here.

Ross got into a Nissan Frontier, which had been reported stolen from a Hoover apartment complex earlier in the night. The suspect left the parking lot but came back a short time later at a high rate of speed.

At that point, video showed, Hoffman got out of the SUV carrying a gun and went into the warehouse.

He reportedly told Ross he had to use the bathroom.

A gunshot was heard, and then Hoffman exited, yelling to Ross, I had to pop him.

The pair fled the scene.

Police found Lalum suffering from a gunshot wound inside a warehouse bay. They attempted life-saving measures until Birmingham firefighters arrived to take him to UAB Hospital.

Lalum was pronounced dead at the hospital at 5:50 a.m.

Rosss public defender, Sammie Shaw, previously contended his client was there seeking work, and there was no evidence a robbery was planned or took place.

Simply because he was there when the business owner was killed does not make him guilty, Shaw said.
A teen awaiting trial for shooting at a Montgomery police officer is now charged with capital murder in the slaying of a 21-year-old in Montgomery during a robbery.

Savion Renardo German, 19, is charged with capital murder in the Nov. 17, 2023, slaying of Tanario Abner.

German was taken into custody Friday by the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force.

He remains held without bond in the Montgomery County Detention Center.

Police and fire medics found Abner after responding at about 10:39 p.m. that Friday to a call to the 3400 block of Fountain Circle. Abner was pronounced dead at the scene.

German is the second suspect charged in Abners death.

The first suspects name has not been released because of his age, but the 16-year-old was taken into custody in February when he allegedly showed up at Church of Highlands in Pelham with a gun.

An adult and eight juveniles arrived at the church in two separate vehicles, authorities said.

A church volunteer was shuttling people from their vehicles to the building.

The volunteer saw that one of the juvenile males had a firearm in his waistband and informed him that he could not have the weapon inside the church.

The juvenile male complied and exited the shuttle and placed the firearm in a vehicle.

Immediately, police said, the adult and seven remaining juveniles exited the shuttle, and a juvenile female drove away in the vehicle containing the firearm and returned a few minutes later.

Pelham officers were alerted to the teen male with the firearm and made contact with him.

The 16-year-old was taken into custody without incident and remains held without bond.

German at the time of his arrest Friday was already awaiting trial on charges from earlier this year  unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle, discharging a firearm into an occupied building or vehicle, and attempted murder for shooting at a Montgomery police corporal while he was on the ground.

According to court records, those charges stemmed from a Feb. 12 incident where police responded to a report of German reportedly breaking into a car at Walmart. German fled and a foot chase followed, which is when shots were fired at police.

The officer was not injured.
A 59-year-old suspect has been charged in the beating death of his roommate over an alleged Pop-Tart theft.

Ozark police announced a manslaughter charged against Daryl Miley. He was booked into the Dale County Jail early Friday and remains held without bond.

Miley is charged in the slaying of 63-year-old Billy Joe Maynard.

According to police, an ambulance was called April 4 to Maynards home on Walton Street. He was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Maynard was able to tell investigators that the assault had happened days earlier. He later died.

The autopsy showed that Maynard died from blunt force trauma. He sustained three broken ribs and ruptured spleen.

During an interview with investigators, police said, Miley confessed to hitting Maynard with a metal pipe in the stomach area. He told them they were in a heated argument over the reported Pop-Tart theft.
The Alabama Supreme Court on Friday denied a request by the United Methodist Church to dismiss a lawsuit by a Dothan megachurch that claims it owes the denomination no money to leave.

The Alabama-West Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church had asked a Houston County court to dismiss the case, saying it was a church matter and shouldnt be decided by the courts.

The Houston County court refused to dismiss the case, so the denomination appealed to the state Supreme Court asking for a dismissal.

On Feb. 7, the Supreme Court heard arguments on Harvest Churchs claim to own its own property. Fridays decision by the court refusing dismissal will send it back to the lower court for a hearing.

Were very happy with the unanimous State Supreme Court ruling, and look forward to continuing the case, said Harvest Church founding Pastor Ralph Sigler in an email to AL.com. We look forward to demonstrating that Harvest Church property belongs to Harvest church without any hindrance.

When Harvest Church voted to leave the denomination in November 2022, it didnt think it owed the denomination any money, Sigler told AL.com.

Some churches its size that decided to leave were paying settlements as high as $4 million to leave, he said. Most of the more than 1,600 people who attend the church weekly werent even aware of the United Methodist affiliation, the pastor said.

When Harvest Church in Dothan was founded by Sigler in 1996, he aligned it with the United Methodist Church.

When the growing congregation bought a 10-acre campus and built a 1,200-seat worship center, church leadership did not include a trust clause that made the United Methodist Alabama-West Florida Conference an owner of the property.

The church is now independent.

Sigler said he has always considered it part of the Methodist Holiness movement, emphasizing the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It always has been on the conservative end of Methodist theology, he said.

But the Alabama-West Florida Conference would not let the church leave without paying and going through procedures that other disaffiliating churches were required to follow.

Sigler said Harvest Church leaders believe the United Methodist Church has failed to enforce its Book of Discipline bans on same-sex marriage and ordination of openly gay clergy since the 2016 election of the first openly lesbian bishop, Karen Oliveto.

We are saddened by this litigation, but we are confident the process we have adhered to is fair and just, the conference said in a statement about its other lawsuit before the state Supreme Court involving a group of 45 churches that filed a lawsuit against the conference asking to leave.

Those churches said Bishop David Graves had delayed the disaffiliation process trying to run out the clock to keep them from leaving. Those churches lost at the circuit court level when a judge ruled it was an internal church matter, but appealed to the state Supreme Court and are hoping for a hearing.

The United Methodist Church on Dec. 31, 2023, concluded its disaffiliation process that allowed 348 churches to leave the North Alabama Conference and 248 churches to leave the Alabama-West Florida Conference.

Nationwide, over the past four years, 7,600 congregations left the denomination 5,600 in 2023. Thats about a fourth of all United Methodist churches. They left under 2019 guidelines that made it possible for churches to negotiate to leave and take their property with them until the end of 2023.

In Alabama, more than half of United Methodist congregations disaffiliated  about 555 churches. Most of those departures have taken place since 2022.

See also: United Methodist disaffiliation deadline passes: retired Alabama bishop calls split traumatic

United Methodist split: changing signs reflect upheaval

United Methodist split: 45 churches who sued bishop to disaffiliate file appeal to state Supreme Court

United Methodist split: 8 more churches disaffiliate, including 1 of Mobiles largest

United Methodists urge repeal of ban on same-sex marriage, openly gay clergy

United Methodists ask for loyalty from leaders, tighten rules on disaffiliation and downsize

The long, slow death of Birmingham-Southern: What killed an Alabama college with 168-year-old roots?
The Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) will be altering their current airport bus route next month to no longer include the airport, the authority told the citys Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

According to BJCTA Planning Manager Brittnee Thomas, the number 20 bus route, currently known as the airport route, will be restructured to run from the citys central transit station (on Morris Avenue), through the Kingston neighborhood, and end at the east transit station (in Woodlawn) starting this May. Currently, the route takes riders from the central transit station, through Kingston, and ends at the Birmingham airport.

By rerouting riders to the east transit station, Thomas said the BJCTA is hoping for decreased transit time and greater mobility throughout the metro.

If people in the Kingston area who take the number 20 route need to get on another bus to go to a different side of the metro, they currently have to ride all the way to the airport and back to the central station, Thomas said. But on the updated route, riders will have two opportunities to get on connecting buses at the central and east transit stations.

Thomas said she is hoping this will also increase ridership. From Jan. 2020-Dec. 2023 the airport stop averaged about nine riders a day and the Kingston stop saw about six or seven riders a day.

Birmingham City Council President Darrell OQuinn asked Thomas if it was worth it to keep the route given the low ridership. She expressed her thoughts that low ridership on route 20 was due to peoples difficulty accessing grocery stores, their jobs, and hospitals. She is optimistic that the routes increased connectivity will be able to lessen these issues and increase ridership.

How can people get to the airport?

For people in the eastern part of the metro that still need to get to the airport, Thomas said a micro transit option would be available starting in May to take the place of the bus route.

She added that anyone in the micro transit zone surrounding the airport and Kingston neighborhood would also be able to use micro transit to get to places nearer to them, like a nearby grocery store.

Birminghams micro transit service, On-Demand, was first introduced to the city in February of 2019. Rides cost a flat rate of $1.50 and Vias rideshare technology works by matching riders heading in the same direction and placing them in the same vehicle.

Drivers go through background checks and insurance verification before they can drive with Via according to the company website.

To book a ride with On-Demand, people within the maps coverage zones can either call 205-236-0768 or download the Via app from their phones app store.

Over the next month the BJCTA will be holding meetings to assess reaction to the route 20 update. For announcements of when and where these meetings will be, Thomas said people can ask their neighborhood presidents or visit the BJCTA website at https://maxtransit.org/?fbclid=IwAR2hBtkhyByKanNb4WZMxxUflDPwMb0PJBwkus5WqdJ70Gbkwuvs2bzgYo4_aem_AXPNVIYEEXVzSGz1ZHx9EVj9FNXikIbogI4eg_oegmLHr1ZEqbRWz_EZM0y4FTYGYb1CQj7kX1NW58h7G2KzbNsO.

OQuinn said he didnt predict the changes would be a big issue due to the low number of riders. But he wants to talk to constituents before the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee endorsed the changes, he said.

For more information on micro transit in Birmingham or to view BJCTA route maps, visit the website, listed above.
Stan McDonald, a member of the five-person Alabama Ethics Commission, resigned Wednesday, a week after a public feud with lawmakers over a proposed overhaul of the states ethics laws.

During an appearance last week on the Jeff Poor Show, McDonald criticized some Republican lawmakers support for the bill. McDonald said he donated to GOP campaigns.

Rep. Matt Simpson, R-Daphne, who is sponsoring the ethics bill that passed the House last week, quickly pointed out that its against current ethics laws for commission members to participate in partisan political activity.
A former Alabama track and field athlete was one of six collegiate track athletes -- all from either Nigeria or Zimbabwe -- who participated in money laundering as part of a scheme that defrauded numerous individuals across the U.S. out of more than $800,000, according to officials.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Emmanuel Ineh, of Nigeria, pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme and was sentenced to time served, plus three years of post-release supervision.

Ineh, 23, was on the track team at William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Miss., from 2019-2021. According to federal court documents, the fraud and money laundering scheme was carried out between 2018-2022.

Ineh transferred to the University of Alabama and was on the Crimson Tide track and field team in 2022. A high jumper and triple jumper, he is listed in the school record book as having the 8th-best long jump in Alabama history -- 25 feet, 8 1/4 inches, set at a meet in Baton Rouge, La., in 2022.

Ineh was also a suspect in a rape case in Tuscaloosa last year, but a grand jury declined to indict him.

Ineh and the other five money laundering conspirators were all in the U.S. on F1 student visas, according to court documents.

Persons in Nigeria conducted are believed to have defrauded at least 100 people in the U.S. through romance scams, sale of fraudulent goods and military scams. The victims of the scams would be instructed to send money to people in the U.S.

An FBI investigation determined that Ineh, Aniekeme Etim, Uyoyo Mercy Abire, Raymond Ekevwo, Toluwani Adebakin, and Ngoni Chadyiwa were all receiving and transferring the proceeds from the fraud schemes. At the time that they were engaged in this activity, each of the individuals were collegiate track and field athletes.

Etim and Adebakin were athletes at William Carey, while Abire was at LSU. Ekevwo was on the track team at the University of Florida. Chadyiwa, originally from Zimbabwe and the only one not from Nigeria, was also at William Carey.

While federal agents determined none of the athletes were directly involved in defrauding the victims, they received funds from the scams and transferred more than $820,000 overseas.

Etim was the last to be sentenced. A federal court judge in Hattiesburg sentenced her to three years probation and fined nearly $75,000. The remaining four conspirators were sentenced as follows:

Adebakin: Sentenced to 36 months in prison, followed by three years of post-release supervision.

Chadyiwa: Sentenced to three years probation.

Abire: Sentenced to 41 months in prison, followed by three years post-release supervision.

Ekevwo: Sentenced to 46 months in prison, followed by three years post-release supervision.

In addition, each of the defendants has been ordered to pay full restitution to victims from whom they personally received funds. All six are also subject to potential deportation.
A Hoover High School student has been charged following an incident on campus Thursday that led to a lockdown and large police response.

Just before 2 p.m., Hoover High School officials and Hoover Police Department school resource officers at the school were notified by students of a suspicious person on campus who was making threats of violence.

A lockdown of the school was initiated while police investigated the complaint.

Officers located the person, who was identified as a juvenile student and quickly detained him, said Lt. Daniel Lowe.

A search of the campus was conducted, and no weapons were found.

Once the campus was determined to be safe, the lockdown was lifted, and students were dismissed.

The investigation showed that a 17-year-old boy was wearing a mask and got into a verbal altercation with a group of students in the courtyard.

Police at Hoover High School on April 11, 2024.Carol Robinson

During the altercation, the teen made gestures to make the other students believe he was armed with a weapon, and he made verbal statements making the students believe he intended to harm them, Lowe said.

The threats were subsequently reported to faculty and a lockdown was initiated.

School resource officers worked to identify the student and took him into custody within minutes and without incident.

The student was not armed when he was taken into custody, and there has been no evidence discovered indicating he was ever armed with a weapon at any point, Lowe said.

Lowe said the incident was isolated, and there is no ongoing threat at Hoover High School.

The 17-year-old is charged with first-degree making a terrorist threat.

Because of his age, no additional information is being released.
The man who raped and murdered Kamarie Holland, the 5-year-old Georgia girl whose body was found in an abandoned east Alabama home, was convicted Friday of four capital charges in connection with her killing.

A Russell County jury found Jeremy Williams guilty of killing a child under 14, killing a person during a kidnapping, killing a person during a rape and killing a person during sodomy, WRBL reported.

Williams, 39, earlier pleaded guilty to rape and murder charges in Kamaries death.

He faces the death penalty when he is sentenced Monday.

During the trial on Wednesday, jurors were shown graphic footage of Williams sexually assaulting the girl, WRBL reported.

Some law enforcement personnel in the courtroom were fighting back tears as the footage was displayed, according to the station.

Williams confessed to raping and murdering Kamarie as well as his 1-month-old daughter in Alaska -- a cold case that was reopened after the confession, WRBL reported.

The confession was made during a five-hour interview with the Russell County Sheriffs Office in 2021.

When a sheriffs deputy asked Williams why he was confessing he said it was because he wanted to get right with God before hes executed, according to the station.

Kamaries body was found in an abandoned home in east Alabama in December 2021.

Kristy Marie Siple, Kamaries mother, had a sexual relationship with Williams, who said he was tired of Siple and asked for Kamarie instead.

Siple allegedly asked for $2,500 for Kamarie when Williams countered with $1,300. Although Wiliams agreed, he never paid Siple the $1,300, WRBL reported.

Williams recorded the abuse of Kamarie, which included forcing her to perform oral sex and making the girl smoke methamphetamine with him.
A Bessemer man has pleaded guilty in the 2017 shooting death of a 26-year-old man.

Andrew Bernard Jeffery, 54, entered his guilty plea in February before Jefferson County Bessemer Cutoff Circuit Judge Thomas Thrash. Killed in the Nov. 6, 2017, was Quinton Lee Sims.

Thrash sentenced Jeffery to 20 years in prison with five to serve. Once his sentenced is completed in 2029, he will serve five more years on probation.

Jeffery surrendered to the Jefferson County Jail Thursday to await transfer to the Alabama Department of Corrections.

The shooting happened at 9:03 p.m. that Monday in the 1000 block of Dartmouth Avenue. Officers were dispatched to the home on a report of a shooting.

Once there, police found Sims with a single gunshot wound to the back. He was taken to UAB Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 10:01 p.m.

Jeffery had surrendered shortly after the shooting.

Police at the time said the shooting was the result of an argument.
House Speaker Mike Johnson is set to journey to Mar-a-Lago Friday to meet with former President Trump as questions swirl about the Republican leaders ability to hold on to his job.

As Trumps allies in Congress continue to make his life miserable, Johnson says he will appear at a press conference alongside Trump to discuss election integrity.

The two leaders reportedly plan to express support for a bill that would ban noncitizens from voting in federal elections, despite the fact that they already are prohibited from doing so.

But Johnson will also likely be pleading behind closed doors for Trumps help in getting his supporters in Congress into line on a string of issues like renewing a crucial FBI surveillance tool and desperately needed aid for Ukraine.

Its unclear whether Johnson will get what he wants from the former president or what political price he might need to pay in exchange.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia lawmaker and staunch Trump loyalist, has bitterly denounced Johnson as a sellout to the MAGA cause and filed paperwork that could lead to a vote to oust him.

Trump reportedly has told advisers that he doesnt want to see Johnson toppled. But he has done little to bolster his position, and MTG says Trump has not told her to end her crusade.

Johnson, who replaced Rep. Kevin McCarthy as speaker last year after a revolt by a handful of far right-wing lawmakers, is a longtime loyal supporter of Trump.

He has firmly backed the former presidents false claims that the 2020 election was rigged and says he agrees with MAGA lawmakers on most topics.

But he also recognizes that being speaker requires making compromises with moderate Republicans and even Democrats, especially because the GOP holds a razor-thin majority of only five votes.

Johnson was forced to work across the aisle to enlist Democratic support to avert a government shutdown by passing a spending bill that archconservatives bitterly opposed.

Now the speaker is seeking to reauthorize the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a measure that law enforcement officials call an invaluable tool in fighting terrorism and uncovering domestic terror plots before they happen.

The bill has broad bipartisan support, but some right-wing Republicans denounce it as a tool of the so-called deep state.

Trump falsely blames FISA for being the basis of the FBI probe into his 2016 campaigns ties with Russia. He urged lawmakers to reject it in a post on his social media site.

A remarkable 19 Republicans voted to derail the bill on a rarely seen procedural measure, a harsh rebuke to Johnson.

A similar scenario could unfold over Ukraine aid.

Johnson has said he will find a way to bring to the House floor a bill to provide defense assistance to Ukraine as the embattled democracy seeks to fend off a Russian invasion.

Such a plan has the support of more than two-thirds of the House as a whole but only about half the Republicans.

Trump and Greene firmly oppose aid to Ukraine, leaving the plan in limbo and potentially allowing them to scuttle it, especially if Johnson is worried it could cost him his job. That could open the door for Russia to overrun an outgunned Ukraine, which would amount to a shocking geopolitical defeat for the U.S. and its Western allies.

After meeting with Greene on Wednesday, Johnson offered to give her a spot on a proposed kitchen cabinet of advisers to the speaker.

Greene poured cold water on the offer, suggesting that she sees no reason to end the pressure campaign.

I explained to him, this isnt personal, she said. But he has not done the job that we elected him to do.

2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A search is underway in southeast Alabama for the remains of a missing woman who was murdered in 2017.

Malcolm Hunter, the boyfriend of 26-year-old Ayanna Smith, was found guilty in 2018 of Smiths murder without her body being found.

Smith was last seen Jan. 21, 2017 around 10 p.m. on West Brunson Street in Enterprise, police said at the time.

After conducting interviews and collecting physical evidence, detectives and the Coffee County District Attorneys Office believed foul play is involved in the case, leading to a warrant for Hunters arrest.

On Friday, police began searching around Enterprise for Smiths body, WTVY reported.
The Republican-led Tennessee Legislature has overwhelmingly voted to send GOP Gov. Bill Lee a proposal that would ban marriage between first cousins.

The House cast a 75-2 vote Thursday on the bill after the Senate previously approved it without any opposition.

But a particularly vocal opponent, Republican Rep. Gino Bulso, took up most of the debate time, as he argued for an amendment to allow first-cousin marriages if the couple first seeks counseling from a genetic counselor.

In a previous committee hearing on the bill, Bulso lightheartedly shared a story about how his grandparents were first cousins who came to the U.S. from Italy in the 1920s, then traveled from Ohio to Tennessee to get married. He and other lawmakers laughed, and Bulso voted for the bill in that committee.

Then during Thursdays floor debate, the socially conservative attorney argued that the risk of married cousins having a child with birth defects does not exist for gay couples. He contended there is no compelling government interest to ban same-sex cousins from getting married, saying that would run afoul of the U.S. Supreme Courts gay marriage decision.

He also couched his argument by saying that he thought the Supreme Court decision on gay marriage was grievously wrong. Bulso has supported legislation aimed at the LGBTQ community. That includes a bill he is sponsoring that would largely ban displaying pride flags in public school classrooms, which civil liberties advocates have contended runs afoul of the U.S. Constitution.

The question is, is there a public health issue with a male marrying a male first cousin? Bulso said. And I think the answer is no.

Ultimately, lawmakers voted down Bulsos amendment and approved the ban proposed by Democratic Rep. Darren Jernigan.

I hope its safe to say that in 2024, we can close this loophole, Jernigan said.

Jernigan said a 1960 attorney generals opinion determined that an 1820s Tennessee law restricting some marriages among relatives does not prevent first cousins from marrying. He responded to Bulso that there was no violation to the gay marriage ruling in his bill.

Republican Rep. Monty Fritts was the other lawmaker to vote against the bill.
Washington state election officials say they will allow a provisional certification of President Joe Biden to be on the general election ballot in November because of a conflict with that state ballot certification deadline and the Democratic nominating convention in August, ABC News reports.

Alabama and Ohio, as well as Washington, have notified the Democratic party of potential conflicts with the convention and the ballot certification deadlines that could cause Bidens name not to appear on the general election ballots in their states.

The director of elections for Washingtons Secretary of States Office on Thursday sent a letter to the Democratic National Committee about the conflict with that states ballot certification deadline of Aug. 20, ABC News reports. The DNC convention is scheduled for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago. But the letter suggests that office would make an exception for the party if they submitted a provisional certification nominating Biden by Aug. 20.

On Tuesday, Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen notified the state and national Democratic parties that the Democratic convention is scheduled to be after the Aug. 15 deadline in Alabama law for political parties to certify their nominees for the Nov. 5 general election. Ohio has an Aug. 7 deadline.

An attorney for the Alabama Democratic Party this week sent a letter to the Alabama Secretary of States Office also asking that Democrats be allowed to submit a provisional certification by the states deadline. Party attorney Barry Ragsdale noted in the letter that the secretary of states office allowed the Republican Party to provisionally certify Donald Trump and Mike Pence as its nominees in 2020 and confirm them when the nominations became official.

On Thursday, Sen. Merika Coleman of Jefferson County and House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels of Huntsville, both Democrats, introduced identical bills to that change Alabamas deadline for political parties to certify their nominees for president and vice president to a later date.
This is an opinion column.

One Alabama lawmaker wants to gut the state ethics law and replace it with a new one.

Hed do better to follow the law weve got.

Alabamas ethics laws dont only limit lobbyists from plying lawmakers with free dinners and trips to the beach. They also require transparency from public officials, too.

If a state lawmaker, for instance, does business with a county government, he has to keep a copy of his contract on file with the Alabama Ethics Commission, where people can find it.

But when I went looking for one such contract this week, it wasnt there.

State Rep. Matt Simpson, R-Daphne, should have filed that contract almost a year ago. Instead, hes tried to rewrite the law so hed never have to disclose such things in the first place. Nor would anybody else.

Simpsons bill doesnt only loosen restrictions on gifts between lobbyists and lawmakers. It also deletes important disclosure requirements from the law.

It takes transparency and makes it opaque.

Maybe its true, you dont have to break the law when you make the law, but for that to work, those things have to happen in a certain order.

And Simpson got something backward.

Under the law today, when public officials enter into contracts with public bodies, including state, county or municipal governments, they have to say so. They must disclose that to the Alabama Ethics Commission and send the commission copies of the contracts within 10 days.

Suppose you were a county commissioner in Autauga County, but your day job was selling tractors. If you sold a tractor to the City of Prattville, youd have to let the Ethics Commission know what sort of tractor it was and how much the public paid for it. The Ethics Commission then puts that information on its website where the public can find it. If the public paid $1 million for one tractor, theres a place people see find that.

Its useful stuff, transparency.

Which was why it was aggravating when I went looking for one of Simpsons contracts. Simpson is a lawmaker from Baldwin County, but he also works under contract as an assistant district attorney in Mobile County.

But when I went to the commissions site, that contract wasnt there.

I asked the commission where it was. They told me they didnt have it, but they did have two older contracts for Simpsons legal work with Spanish Fort. I had already found those.

So this wasnt a matter of Simpson not knowing the law existed. He had followed it before.

I called Simpson to ask him whether he had sent the contract to the commission, as the law required.

Im not sure whether they got the contract or not, he said.

Simpson wanted me to understand he had clearance from the attorney general and ethics to take two public jobs at the same time, which I already knew. He seemed to misunderstand the question, so I asked it again. Did he file it?

Im not sure, he said. I dont know that I have. I cant say that I have.

He, again, tried to defend having two public jobs at the same time and said he had permission.

Thats not the question, I told him. The question was did he follow the law requiring him to send a copy of the contract to keep on file?

Ill be happy to send it to them, he said.

I told him I wasnt going to hide the ball: Its odd that someone whos trying to rewrite the ethics law doesnt seem to be in compliance with the ethics law right now.

Ill be happy to send it to them, he said again.

Simpson has argued before that the Alabama ethics law is complicated and confounding, but there are many lawmakers who manage to comply with the disclosure requirement without apparent trouble.

State Sen. Sam Givhan, R-Huntsville, regularly lets the commission know when his law firm has taken on public entities as clients.

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth has filed contracts with the Von Braun Center in Huntsville where hes hosted hunting and fishing expositions.

State Sen. Gerald Allen, R-Tuscaloosa, sends the commission copies of invoices when he sells meat sticks and cookie dough to schools for their fundraisers.

In the past, Ive been hard on Allen. But Allen has proved up to the task, and if he can do it, anybody can.

But not the guy trying to rewrite Alabamas ethics laws.

Last week, Alabama Ethics Commissioner Stan McDonald revealed he had given campaign donations while a commissioner  something prohibited by the law. McDonald this week admitted he had made a mistake and resigned from the commission.

Simpson seized on McDonalds goof and called McDonald a felon on talk radio.

When I spoke with Simpson on Thursday, he seemed much less concerned with his own mistake.

Within about 15 minutes of my phone call with Simpson, he sent me a copy of his contract, which was signed May 26, 2023. The contract is about six sentences long, short on specifics, but for up to $40,000 per year.

He also sent the contract to the commission  311 days late.

If his bill passes the Alabama Senate, hed never have to file at all.

Alabamas ethics laws are important. They restrain special interest groups trying to buy favor from lawmakers, they put a check on double-dipping by public officials and they give the Ethics Commission authority to police public officials.

But they also create windows through which we can see what our officials are doing.

Its bad enough when we have to ask Simpson to open the blinds.

Simpsons bill would brick that window shut.

Kyle Whitmire is the 2023 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for commentary. Subscribe to his weekly newsletter, Alabamafication.
A 19-year-old Madison man has been charged with capital murder in connection with a March 23 murder investigation.

According to Huntsville police, Malcolm Jacob Derr has been arrested and is currently being held at the Monroe County Pennsylvania Correctional Facility. He is awaiting extradition back to Alabama.

Derr was arrested in connection with the Saturday, March 23 shooting death of Joseph Collins, 18, of Madison.

The shooting happened at around 10:45 a.m.. Officers found Collins dead from gunshot wounds on Lakewood Drive.

Major Crimes Investigators later learned Malcolm could be in the Pennsylvania area and communicated with the U.S. Marshals, where he was taken into custody on Thursday.
Alabama A&M Universitys Department of Public Safety Friday announced more security measures following a year where two shootings occurred on the Huntsville campus.

A firearm and explosive detecting K-9 will be on campus this fall, according to officials. In addition, a Department of Public Safety Sub-Station has been opened inside Knight Complex  the first of its kind on campus.

The University has also partnered with a security contractor and begun expanded patrols inside Knight Complex and Foster Complex during peak hours.

Last year, the university spent $600,000 on body cameras, surveillance grid upgrades, and other enhancements, such as outdoor cameras to monitor activity in parking lots and other key areas.

These are important steps in continuing to increase our presence on campus, Police Chief Montez Payton said. Weve had very positive responses to these changes so far as the entire campus community understands the importance of improving infrastructure to be both proactive and responsive to campus safety and emergencies.

The #AAMU Department of Public Safety has announced more new initiatives geared toward further enhancing safety and security on campus. The University will welcome a new security K-9 to campus soon. Trained to detect firearms and explosives, the K-9 officer recently visited pic.twitter.com/rGM6VYidCg  Alabama A&M University (@aamuedu) April 12, 2024

The Knight Complex has been the scene of two shootings since last August.

The first on Aug. 22, erupted following an altercation, injuring two people and leading to the arrests of two suspects.

Then on March 18, a man was shot by a campus police officer on the fifth floor of the Knight Complex residence hall. The officer was conducting a routine patrol around 1:50 p.m., and heard shots fired below him.

As the officer responded to see where the shots were coming from, he made contact with a person in the southwest stairwell of the residence hall and shot them. Juvuan Maurice Richards Jr., 20, of Mobile, was arrested March 18 and charged with discharging a gun in an occupied building.

The campus police officer, who was not publicly identified, was not injured.

The safety and security of our campus is something we think about and work on constantly, Vice President of Student Affairs Braque Talley said. Our team will continue to focus on finding ways to meet the needs of an ever-growing campus while keeping students, staff and visitors safe. It takes all of us to protect The Hill.
Huntsville City Schools $600 million, 10-year capital plan must be approved by the federal judge overseeing the districts desegregation efforts.

Superintendent Clarence Sutton and School Board President Ryan Renaud told parents at a public forum at Huntsville High School on Tuesday that the plan was part of the districts effort to get out from under its desegregation order.
The New York Times has a well documented obsession with Gazan hunger that fuels hostility toward Israel and Jews, by falsely suggesting that the worlds only Jewish state is maliciously responsible for the greatest humanitarian crisis on the planet, even though there are exponentially worse famines underway, and the blame for Gazas hunger is far more complex than the NYTs coverage would suggest.

The newspaper reinforces this incorrect impression through its many failures to cover stories that exculpate Israel and/or blame others for Gazas food shortage. Here are thirteen notable stories reported by Israeli news organizations that give crucial moral context  where Hamas and/or aid group incompetence caused Gazan hunger  but are completely missing from the paper of record:

October 16: [UNRWA] ... indicated Sunday that Hamas authorities in the Gaza Strip had stolen fuel and medical supplies meant for refugees from its premises in Gaza City, during the fighting triggered by the terror groups deadly shock attack on Israel. Shortly after posting the claim on X, UNRWA deleted the posts. It later asserted that nothing had been looted.

November 12: [Footage shows] Hamas officials beating up civilians and preventing them from accessing a truckload of food sent as aid to the civilian population. The report says that after this was filmed, the Hamas operatives took away the food for the terror groups own purposes.

December 5: A video circulating on social media shows armed people, presumably Hamas members, looting humanitarian aid trucks crossing into the Gaza Strip from Rafah. The video was filmed Monday by Gazan civilians as they threw stones at the looters wearing civilian fatigues, who shot back in response. The civilians can be heard insulting the looters, and shouting This is all being filmed!

December 7: In a rare display of public criticism, a Gaza resident tells the Al-Jazeera TV channel that the lack of aid to residents of the Strip is due to Hamas stealing it. Asked about the supposed trickle of aid coming into Gaza, the woman says there is plenty of aid, but all aid goes down (into Hamas tunnels).

The aid does not reach the nation, all the people, she says.

When the journalist from the pro-Palestinian Qatari channel tells her that only a small amount of aid is coming in and it is all being distributed, she shakes her fingers at him and says: All of it goes into their houses. They take it and will even shoot me or do whatever they want, Hamas.

December 11: Videos out of Gaza show the fight over the limited humanitarian aid entering the territory. One clip shows an armed gunman atop a truck, as civilians rush to grab supplies left in the street. Some media reports claim Hamas stole the truck.

December 13: Israels military liaison to the Palestinians posts footage of what it says are Hamas fighters seizing a convoy of humanitarian aid after it entered Gaza.

December 17: Videos circulating on social media Sunday showed gunmen, reportedly Hamas operatives, stealing trucks delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip from Egypt, as aid convoys also started entering the Palestinian enclave through the Kerem Shalom border crossing for the first time since the outbreak of the war on October 7.

December 21: President Isaac Herzog averred Thursday that the United Nations has been failing to keep up with the amount of aid Israel is inspecting, and that the world body is to blame for the little amount of aid entering the Strip even after Israel has opened up its Kerem Shalom crossing to ease the bottleneck.

Unfortunately, due to the utter failure of the UN in its work with other partners in the region, they have been unable to bring in more than 125 trucks [of aid] a day, Herzog said in a meeting with visiting French Senate President Gerard Larcher.

Today it is possible to provide three times the amount of humanitarian aid to Gaza if the UN  instead of complaining all day  would do its job, Herzog said.

In recent weeks, multiple videos have circulated on social media of Gazans discovering stockpiles of aid in UNRWA facilities, and expressing anger at the organization for not distributing desperately needed supplies to citizens.

February 16: A Palestinian teen named Muhammad al-Araja who tried to grab from a humanitarian aid shipment at the Rafah Crossing was shot dead earlier today, apparently by Hamas police, according to unconfirmed Arabic media reports. After the shooting, many members of the victims large extended family began rioting at the crossing, setting fire to parts of the complex and clashing with authorities there.

February 16: [Israel] chastised the United Nations on Thursday for not keeping up with humanitarian aid operations in the Gaza Strip. ... [T]he Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) posted photos on X of what it said is the content of 500 trucks of humanitarian aid on the Gazan side of Kerem Shalom, AFTER Israeli inspection, waiting to be picked up and distributed by UN orgs. It is the 3rd day in a row that hundreds of trucks are not picked up. The UN needs to scale up their operations, COGAT said.

Israel has accused humanitarian actors of not doing enough to distribute aid since the beginning of the war. Particular criticism has been directed at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which stands accused of failing to visit hostages held by Hamas and provide them with adequate assistance.

February 23: Gaza has received 13,834 trucks of humanitarian aid since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war, according to a Friday update by Israels military liaison to the Palestinians, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories. According to COGAT, 254,210 tons of supplies have been transferred to the Gaza Strip, including 167,080 tons of food.

March 19: Since December, Mark, an aid worker with a large international relief organization, has entered Gaza eight times to bring food, water, and other essentials to the enclaves civilian population. ... According to Mark ... relief trucks are increasingly being emptied by both desperate civilians and armed looters before they can reach their intended distribution points.

March 27: The Jerusalem Post interviewed a Gazan writer in the south of Gaza who says, The Rafah crossing is operating well, and aid enters in a very large amount, and there is never a shortage. However, the distribution of aid is in the hands of Hamas, which means it does not reach all the displaced people.

In addition to ignoring those thirteen stories that shift the blame to Hamas and NGOs, the NYT also hid these three stories that cast doubt on the famine that the papers skewed and alarmist reporting suggests:

March 13: The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported claims that As of 12 March ... 27 people ... have died of malnutrition and dehydration [in] Gaza. But instead of sharing that key data point, the NYTs obsessive coverage of Gazas famine makes readers think that hunger has killed vastly more than 27 people.

March 31: Ynet reports that Israels Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) Director Major General Ghassan Alian published a report ... which disproves recent claims against Israel on the state of food security in Gaza, and points to factual and methodological errors made by a United Nations report on the matter.

Instead of covering that news, the NYT ran a headline reinforcing its preferred anti-Israel narrative: Aid is slow to enter Gaza, despite a top U.N. court ruling demanding unhindered access.

April 2: Ynet reports that Gazan food prices dropped and Hamas reduced taxes on market goods, prompted by the increased and protected flow of aid and food into the territory[.]

That crucial information is never reported by the NYT. A search for NYT articles mentioning Gaza and food that day instead reveals ten stories about the World Central Kitchen tragedy, for which Israel apologized (even though Israel gets zero credit for such honesty, and Hamas never apologizes for anything). The coverage emphasis reinforces the NYTs pattern of amplifying news that smears Israel while avoiding whatever vindicates it.

A particularly instructive example of the New York Times anti-Israel bias is from March 15, when at least 20 Gazans died around an aid convoy and the paper gave the Israeli side of the story 74 words, in the final paragraph, with too little detail to seem credible. By contrast, the Times of Israel included a far more detailed account from the IDF (totaling almost 400 words) and the aerial footage that the IDF shared in support of its claims.

With such slanted coverage, readers of the New York Times are practically presented with an alternative reality, in which Israel alone has caused Gazan misery, with some nefarious plan to worsen hunger wherever possible (despite risking Israeli soldiers lives to create humanitarian aid corridors), and where aid agencies dont fail in their aid distribution tasks, and Hamas didnt break the last ceasefire in place on October 6 and doesnt loot humanitarian aid and shoot anyone who crosses it when trying to access food supplies.

The volume of information that would shift blame away from Israel (to Hamas and others) that the New York Times chooses not to cover dangerously fuels the antisemitism that has exploded on college campuses and in major capitals around the world. Thus, the paper of record has become an instrument of Hamas incitement.

Noah Beck is the author of The Last Israelis, an apocalyptic submarine thriller about Iranian nukes, Hamas, and Hezballah.

Image: Adam Jones via Flickr, CC BY 2.0 (cropped).
As we are waiting for Donald Trump to name his running mate, we here some laudable names such as Kristi Noem, Tulsi Gabbard, Tim Scott, and other prominent figures as potential Vice Presidential material

What do we want in a Vice President? First, the idea that the VP could take the reins should something happen to the President. Given the age of Donald Trump, this is a very legitimate concern. What else? How about winning their home state? Being an asset to the ticket (Kamala fails that test)? Unifying the ticket? Being able to persuade suburban women (the ultimate swing vote nowadays) to vote Republican from the top of the ticket down?

Right now, the consensus is that there are seven swing states. Ideally, the VP should come from one of the swing states to ensure that Donald Trump can put that swing state in the Republican column. There is another swing state that has received little attention.

Virginia.

Current polling has Donald Trump within 3% in Virginia. Popular Governor Glenn Youngkin (58% approval rating, January 4, 2024 Mason Dixon Polling & Strategy) would be a tremendous asset to the Republican ticket. Consider:

His record on education will in particular be an asset in bringing back suburban mothers back to the Republican party. He supports parental control, brought a voice to parents concerned about the quality of their childrens education (remember his Democrat opponent stating I dont think parents should be telling schools what they should teach?). How he handled abortion in Virginia will put suburban mothers at ease. Remember prior Governor Ralph Northams famous appalling quote regarding an expansion of third-term abortions (that did not become law thanks to a Republican legislature), And when its born, we will make the baby comfortable until the mother decides if she wants it to live or die? Governor Youngkin has not changed the Virginia abortion law that allows abortions up to week 26 of a womans pregnancy -- this is a position favored by 70% of Americans (Gallup, July 7, 2023). Having Governor Youngkin on the ticket will go a long way to assuage concerns of suburban women that a Trump/Youngkin ticket would take away reproductive rights away from women. Governor Youngkin currently works with a divided legislature. Having a popular Republican governor who must work across the aisle will go a long way to calming the misplaced notion that a Trump/Youngkin ticket will lead to a dictatorship. Governor Youngkin has a record of reducing taxes -- $5 billion in tax reduction that includes sales tax holiday for school supplies (suburban mothers, do you know this?), increasing spending on education (Moms?) and funding the state pensions (this isnt solely his credit -- but he has not undermined the state pension system like Illinois). He understands that our hard-earned dollars are ours -- not dollars for the government to take Governor Youngkin rejected federal funds for illegal immigrants (undocumented for the PC crowd). From The Hill (April 10, 2024), Governor Youngkin reject state legislation that would strengthen a federal program that conservatives say has led to undocumented immigrants receiving subsidized healthcare... This is pure common sense. Why should we be asking taxpayers to subsidize any benefits for illegal immigrants? In any two-party system, there are factions. Having Governor Youngkin as the Vice President will help unify the Republican party more so as he is a moderate Republican with a track record of reducing taxes supporting education and working across the aisle -- traits needed to win over the suburban women (and independents). Consider Governor Youngkins experience before becoming a governor -- private sector. Biden/Harris are career politicians (grifters) while a Trump/Youngkin ticket represents the dynamic private sector that makes our country great. Youngkins experience in finance, energy, real estate, and infrastructure from a private sector perspective can only be an asset to President Trumps private sector experience. Governor Youngkin is 57. Should something happen to President Trump -- certainly a possibility -- having a young Vice President ready to serve is a tremendous asset. Does anyone think Vice President Harris is up to the job of being President of the USA should something happen to an obviously diminished President Biden? By having Governor Youngkin as VP candidate, the Democrats will now have to defend a blue/purple state with a very popular Republican governor that they were not planning on defending. This becomes yet another state that will be very much in play for Republicans and make the road to 270 electoral votes that much easier to attain. Having Governor Youngkin as VP ensures the Republicans will be the clear front runners in 2028 when he would be the likely Republican Presidential nominee.

There you have it. A common-sense VP who appeals to suburban women, values the parents' role in education, has left existing abortion laws unchanged in Virginia, reduces taxes, does not favor spending taxpayer dollars on illegal immigrants, has genuine private-sector experience, will further unite the Republican party, has an ability to work across the aisle, and is under age 60. Nothing against Governor Noem or Senator Scott, but Glenn Youngkin is the VP candidate who can bring the Republicans across the finish line this November.

President Trump, you need to know when to go through the door. Break bread with Governor Youngkin and make this happen for the sake of our country.

Image: Kate Magee Photography
They had a debate in Mexico and no one is happy, especially the incumbent President Andres Lopez-Obrador. Let's hear from Mr. AMLO:

There were plenty of reasons to criticize Mexicos first presidential debate leading up to the June 2 election. The format was a bit constrictive, and the candidates timer wasnt working at some points, leaving it unclear how much longer they could speak. But President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Tuesday he had a novel reason for disliking Sundays debate: It wasnt about him. Focused on his legacy, Lopez Obrador has long compared his administration to the most heroic chapters of Mexican history. He expressed anger the debate moderators posed questions about corruption and problems with the education and health care systems. Those are issues he says he has resolved. The whole narrative of the debate, if you analyze it, revolved around what our opponents say, Lopez Obrador said at his daily news briefing. The whole narrative of the debate was to not recognize anything done under his administration, as if we had not focused on completely banishing corruption.

Let me translate: AMLO didn't like so many questions about corruption and mismanagement.

I've watched a rerun of the debate. Honestly, I was busy watching the Astros-Rangers game. Yes, I love the Texas version of the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry although we have a long way to go before we are at that level. Nevertheless, here is what I saw in the debate:

First, the moderators brought up corruption because the Mexican voters are indeed concerned about it. Obviously, AMLO didn't like it because they are talking about him. He would have preferred for everyone to praise his successes rather than point out his shortcomings.

Second, the opposition candidate did say that AMLO was embracing delinquents with his hugs vs bullets approach. It was a great line because AMLO owns the insecurity issue but he does not like to hear about it.

My impression of the candidates is that their performance was underwhelming. I've heard from several friends that it was boring and difficult to watch. It confirmed what I suspected that Claudia Sheinbaum is a scientist not much of a politician. She is the opposite of AMLO. The opposition, Xochitl Galvez, is cheerful but needs more experience.

So Mrs. Sheinbaum will probably win and most Mexicans know very little about her except that AMLO pushed her over the line.

P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos.

Image: Eneas De Troya
Several days have passed since a far-left Brazilian Supreme Court justice attempted to strongarm 'X' CEO Elon Musk into banning much of Brazil's conservative political opposition and its most noisome journalists, insisting that it be done on the sly and the bans go out as phony violations of the terms of the platform's service.

Musk gave in for a short time then got sick of the whole thing and announced that he wasn't banning these people. For defying that order, the Supreme Court Justice, Alexandre de Moraes, who incidentally was instrumental in getting former President Jair Bolsonaro banned from running for office for several years, vowed to shut 'X' down in Brazil, exact fines from Musk at $20,000 a day, and launch a criminal investigation.

Brazil Supreme Court judge Alexandre de Moraes, now acting as the countrys de facto dictator, orders probe on Elon Musk over censorship charge.



Moraes accused Musk of criminal instrumentalisation" of X, stating that the social network X must refrain from disobeying judicial pic.twitter.com/8HV1iBZG2D  Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) April 8, 2024

Musk didn't budge.

And now the left has gotten even crazier.

In days since, Musk has said that he needed to spirit his employees out of Brazil because they faced arrest, too.

According to Forbes:

Elon Musk claimed Tuesday that Brazilian X employees are not safe and have been told they will be arrested, the latest development in an escalating feud between the billionaire, his social media firm and Brazilian authorities after the countrys Supreme Court ordered a probe into the alleged spread of fake news and misinformation on the platform. We need to get our employees in Brazil to a safe place or otherwise not in a position of responsibility, Musk said in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter Musk claimed X employees have been told they will be arrested, but did not give further information or say where the warning came from.

In return for that, Musk bit back harder, vowing a 'data dump' just as soon as his employees were safely out of the country:

Musk said we will do a full data dump of information on the Brazilian judgewho Brazils political right frequently criticize as overstepping his authority to censor free speechonce employees are in a safe place.

Which would be useful for all of us to see, given the potential involvement of political figures including Joe Biden and his deep-state allies.

He also sought to flip the 'narrative,' stating that he wouldn't dream of breaking Brazil's law on free speech, and it was guys like de Moraes who were breaking the law and legislating from the bench.

He's a fighter.

Now Musk says he is hearing from U.S. congressional investigators over his battle with these Brazilian borgs.

According to The Hill:

Elon Musk said Thursday that the House has launched an inquiry into his companys work in Brazil after the tech mogul claimed he refused to comply with illegal demands from Brazilian leaders that he ban members of parliament and journalists from his social media platform X. Musk announced Wednesday that X has received an inquiry from the U.S. House of Representatives regarding actions taken in Brazil that were in violation of Brazilian law. He clarified that the company was asked to suspend sitting members of the Brazilian parliament and many journalists by the countrys judiciary. It is unclear which House committee or member reached out to X over the conflict.

I can't tell whether it was Republicans or Democrats, but it almost sounded like Democrats, given that Musk seemed to be their target.

Which is pretty disgusting, if so, but the international left is all connected to one another.

What's more, where, exactly is Joe Biden in this? An American company and its world's-richest-man CEO is being threatened by a Brazilian satrap and there hasn't been a peep out of the White House in his defense.

Now the Brazilian maelstrom gets even stranger given that an establishmentarian NGO is suing Musk for $200 million, or as some see it, extorting him.

 MEET THE BRAZILIAN NGO TRYING TO EXTORT $200M FROM ELON AND X



The Instituto de Fiscalizacao e Controle (IFC) is "dedicated to promoting transparency and combating corruption in public administration. It involves citizens monitoring government actions and expenditures, aiming https://t.co/45pIsW5EL4 pic.twitter.com/JK4j0qI0Gz  Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) April 11, 2024

There is no doubt they are close to the current Brazilian establishment, given their ridiculous claims to being 'injured' by Musk for his free speech stance.

Is this a country or a criminal organization? It's starting to look like Musk is fighting an army of borgs, attacking him from all sides.

Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License
Oh the joys of living alongside useful idiots with superiority complexes!

Allow me to set the stage, starting with a Canadian Press article two months ago, via MSN:

California Gov. Newsom backs dam removal projects to boost salmon. Critics say thats not enough

Then the dams, along the Klamath River, came downand the once-thriving fish populations (trout and salmon) suffered a mass die-off event, as the landscape was devastated by the change:

Klamath Dams Down: Will Ranches Survive?



Dam removal proponents claimed the project would help salmon, but steelhead trout are dead, and salmon spawning beds destroyed & four hydroelectric dams have been breached.@CaliforniaGlobe https://t.co/IZ3akWnGCc pic.twitter.com/dZyQDltezw  California Globe (@CaliforniaGlobe) February 23, 2024

The fishing industry is a crucial part of the California economy, especially for the people of the local Indian tribes, so with essential fish populations headed toward extinction, Gavin Newsom reared his ugly oily head again, albeit through a proxy. (Where Newsom is, I have no idea.)

Yesterday, lieutenant governor of California Eleni Kounalakis dispatched a Federal Fishery Disaster Request to Gina Raimondo, Joe Bidens Secretary of Commerce, soliciting economic assistance (billions of federal dollars) to fix the mess created by Newsom, his administration and its bureaucrats, and all the voters enabling this nightmare.

Oh, but allow me to clarify: Newsom and Kounalakis arent taking any responsibility whatsoever for the obvious cause of the disastertheyre blaming climate change! From Kounalakiss official letter to Raimondo:

Yesterday, the Pacific Fishery Management Council recommended a full closure of Californias commercial and recreational 2024 ocean salmon fisheries in response to near-historically low stock abundance forecasts for the fall Chinook runs of salmon originating from the Sacramento and Klamath rivers.  A host of factors have pushed these iconic and important fisheries to the point of collapse, including prolonged and historic drought, severe wildfires, impacts to spawning and rearing habitat Extreme climate disruption is compounding these factors and is now testing the resiliency of our salmon. In addition, the life cycle of salmon makes them extremely susceptible to environmental impacts as the salmon that are returning to Californias waters now were impacted by drought conditions three years ago on their initial journey out to the ocean.  Based on the projected 100 percent loss of direct fishery revenue, I am requesting an expedited determination of a fishery resource disaster for Californias SFRC and KRFC fisheries to enable fishing communities affected by this disaster to receive essential economic assistance.

Impacts to spawning and rearing habitat? Oh, you mean the destruction of the fish spawning beds because idiot greenies successfully leveraged idiotic policies throughnone other than a radical Democrat government? Figures. Chalk this up as a defiant loser moment.

And a one hundred percent loss of direct fishery revenue? From an ecology report out today:

Salmon fishing in California typically generates around $1.4 billion each year, according to the Golden State Salmon Association.

And thats only salmon fishingnevermind the trout and other fish species harvested from Californias river system.

I mean, its enough to make people lose their minds, especially when theyre footing the bills. When speaking to the big government of California I often hear conservatives say something along the lines of, Well, this doesnt affect me because I dont live in California, and California is free to spend its money as foolishly as it wants. Butto those same conservatives: When California doesnt have any money, which is now always the case as the state faces another historic deficit (one estimate predicts $73 billion in the hole), and runs to the federal government for economic assistance, it does affect you...and me...and my childrens future.

As goes California, so goes the nation? Good grief I hope not.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
Maybe its time we all start learning Mandarin.

According to a report published by the Daily Caller News Foundation (DCNF) yesterday, Chinese military companies have paid D.C. lobbyists tens of millions of dollars in just the past few years alonebut as you might expect, neither the companies nor the lobbying firms responded to the outlets request for comment on the matter.

Here are the details, via the DCNF expose:

Chinese Military Companies Have Spent Over $24 Million Lobbying The US Govt In Recent Years Entities the Pentagon classifies as Chinese military companies have spent more than $24 million lobbying the U.S. government since 2020, a Daily Caller News Foundation review of lobbying disclosures found. Some of the biggest spenders on lobbying included corporations directly tied to human rights abuses and Chinese military research, like telecom giant Huawei, facial recognition software developer Megvii and genomics company BGI Shenzhen. Chinese military corporations cast a wide net across the American government, lobbying the House, Senate and various parts of the executive branch, including the office of the president, often setting their sights on proposed policies that would impact their U.S. operations, according to a DCNF review of congressional disclosures and legislative records.

As you also might expect, the names linked to this whole Americans-working-for-Chinese-communists affair arent all that unrecognizable. Right off the bat, we learn that Huawei paid the Podesta Group $1 million in 2021. Yes, Podesta as in Tony and John Podesta, scandal-ridden fixtures of the D.C. Democrat cabal. (Tony came under fire for unsettling emails involving Marina Abramovic, and both men allegedly have an eye for extremely disturbing art.)

And, this should come as no surprise:

Information on the specific congressional offices Chinese military corporations paid to lobby was not included in congressional disclosures.

Conniving little traitorous monsters, arent they?

But then I did a little digging, and came across at least two people, both of whom work for the same firm (Squire Patton Boggs) and at the same D.C. office, that really caught my eye: John Boehner, former Speaker of the House, and Dr. Xiaoban Xin.

(As an aside: With both high-profile Democrats and high-profile Republicans involved in this, can we concede that the two-party system is merely an illusion at this point?)

Now, Xiaoban has a very impressive biologics background (gene editing, cell therapy, drug delivery vehicles) and before he became a lawyer he worked at the NIH and NIAID, under the one and onlyAnthony Fauci. I also gather that Xiaoban was a Chinese citizen at birthhe received his bachelors degree from Nanjing University in Jiangsu, China.

Of course, a plausible explanation is that SPB wants to hire the best and the brightest, and Xiaoban must certainly be a brilliant man.

Butis there a connection here?

Weve got California politicians welcoming Chinese leaders to American streets with red carpet treatment in which the only flags lining the pavement are the banners of communist China.

Weve got American politicians decked out in Chinese red attire, symbolizing the shed blood of communist revolutionaries, and waving Chinese flags.

Weve got military-aged Chinese males swarming across our border before largely disappearing somewhere into our interiorGordon Chang pointed out that they occasionally pop up when theyre caught practicing their shooting skills in rural areas. And heres this, from CBS News in February:

Chinese migrants are the fastest growing group crossing from Mexico into U.S. at southern border

Weve discovered the presence of Chinese biological weapons labs, operating just miles from American military basesin the U.S.

Weve got government officials, namely Fauci, taking orders from Chinese communists and forming public policy based on such orders.

What in the world is going on?

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
John Bolton went on MSNBC to say that President Trump essentially didnt understand how the world works, and that he didnt really have a philosophy for his policies; Bolton continued, accusing Trump of only having one motivation: himself.

Maybe a never-Trumper warhawk like Bolton, and other career people who suck off the public trough, should explain how their policies worked better. Exactly which of Boltons policies achieved peace?

As far as people who were more interested in helping themselves instead of making the U.S. and world safer, I can think of no better examples than Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton. They spent a lot of their career in D.C., selling access to foreign parties, lining their families pockets.

Heres the Bolton story though, from Breitbart:

Bolton: Trump Has Simple-Minded Ideas About How the World Works Former National Security Adviser John Bolton said Wednesday on MSNBCs Deadline that former President Donald Trump had simple-minded ideas about how the world works. Bolton said, I think its important to understand, and this is especially important for Trump critics to understand, he doesnt have a philosophy. He doesnt think in policy terms, as thats conventionally understood in Washington. He thinks in anecdotal, ad hoc, transactional terms, seeing through the prism of how does this benefit Donald Trump.

Below are some foreign policy examples of the brilliant adults of the progressive Democrat cabal, who apparently do understand the world:

Obama, not Trump, refused to honor the U.S. commitment to put missile shields in the Czech Republic and Poland, which appeased Putin.

Obama, not Trump, told Russia that he would be more flexible after he won the election.

Obama and Biden, not Trump, refused to give weapons to Ukraine when Russia attacked:

Ukraine to Get More U.S. Aid, but Not Weapons; Obama Refuses to Budge on Lethal Aid Despite Poroshenkos Passionate Plea in Congress

It is obvious that it is Obama and Biden who effectively colluded with Russia, not Trump.

Obama, not Trump, shipped $1.7 billion in unmarked bills to Iranian tyrants to appease them.

Obama, not Trump, dictatorially ended an investigation into a billion-dollar drug-running operation by terrorists sponsored by Iran:

In its determination to secure a nuclear deal with Iran, the Obama administration derailed an ambitious law enforcement campaign targeting drug trafficking by the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hezbollah, even as it was funneling cocaine into the United States, according to a POLITICO investigation.

Now what did simple-minded Trump accomplish? All while fighting a cabal of entrenched bureaucrats, anti-American operatives, and the sellouts in Congress? A lot.

Trump knew that energy independence and keeping oil prices low would help all Americans, and keep money out of adversaries hands (like Russian and Iran), which in turn helped people around the globe. Of course, when the sophisticated adults got back in charge they reversed those policies and prices shot up. It is great that they helped Russia and Iran wage terrorism.

While simple-minded Trump knows that reasonably priced and reliable energy makes an economy thrive, the sophisticates somehow believe they could control the climate, and seek to destroy reasonably priced energythis hurts everyone except the green pushers, but Bolton doesnt seem to care. Democrat staffers, posing as MSNBC journalists, certainly dont care.

A simple-minded person like Trump understands that Russia, Iran, China, and other oil producers dont give a hoot about their carbon footprints; career sophisticates like John Kerry only pretend that they do, and will cripple themselves for the agenda.

Career bureaucrats and politicians continually promised to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem without following through; simple-minded Trump just did it, and I am sure the reason he did it was to help himself.

Simple-minded Trump took out Iranian terrorist Qasem Soleimani. The sophisticates thought that was dangerous.

Simple-minded Trump and his unpaid son-in-law succeeded in getting sworn enemies in the Middle East to work together, and sign the historic Abraham peace accords. Somehow the brilliant career bureaucrats couldnt accomplish anything like that.

Simple-minded Trump somehow knew that the way to get Iran to behave was to cut off their funds with economic sanctions and open domestic oil, diminishing Iranian oil. The geniuses in the Obama administration and Biden administration somehow believe that bringing Iran to heel, which spreads terrorism around the world and pledges death to America and Israel, means enriching the nation by hundreds of billions of dollars. That works well, doesnt it?

Of course, Reagan also knew that the way to destroy the Soviet Union was to bankrupt them. I guess he was simple-minded too.

Simple-minded Trump started developing the Space Forcelike simple-minded Reagan who started missile defense. The adults in the room never had the vision to do those things.

Simple-minded Trump told NATO members to pay what they promised for defense and told them they shouldnt depend on Russia for their energy. He was laughed at for his suggestions.

Simple-minded Trump never left Americans to die while under attack in Libya, without lifting a finger to save them, like Hillary and Obama did, because they were more concerned about themselves and their powerful government position.

Simple-minded Trump didnt abandon a military base in Afghanistan, and clear out a prison with terrorists. Nope, that was the educated ones.

Trump didnt draw the line in the sand for Syria and refused to enforce it. Nope, that was Obama.

Simple-minded Trump knows that the military is meant to keep the U.S. and the world safe from adversariespeace through strengthnot to focus on pronouns or fictional right-wing extremists.

Simple-minded Trump can tell the difference between men and women. Sadly, a lot of supposedly educated people have trouble with that simple science.

Simple-minded Trump knows that walls work and that we must have a secure border to keep America safe; no one in the Biden administration and most journalists dont care how many terrorists and gang members flow through or how many people die. They also dont seem to care how many children and women are trafficked.

Simple-minded Trump cut off travel from China when the virus hit. Career people like Biden, Pelosi, and Fauci called Trump a xenophobe for taking that sensible step.

Trump put severe sanctions on the Russian gas pipeline; the brilliant Biden lifted them. Biden and his team of foreign policy experts loved funding Russia and Iran.

Trump put in place a sensible anti-espionage program against the Chinese, and Biden shut it down because he didnt want to be perceived as unfair to the communists;

DOJ shuts down China-focused anti-espionage program The China Initiative is being cast aside largely because of perceptions that it unfairly painted Chinese Americans and U.S. residents of Chinese origin as disloyal.

Now, Biden is welcoming thousands of military-aged men via our open border each month.Who is really simple-minded?

Simple-minded Trump kept the world much safer which helped everyone. It is a shame that a person like Bolton, with tunnel vision, doesnt care.

It is a shame that most people posing as journalists, who are actually Democrat campaign workers. dont care about facts or resultsonly destroying Trump and other Republicans.

The choice gets easier every day. Vote for simple-minded Trump, who kept the world safer and energy prices low, or vote for Biden, or anyone else like him who wants to remake and destroy America, pretending that they can control the climate, and that countries like Russia, China, and Iran will be brought to heel.

Image: DonkeyHotey, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered.
Mr. Credibility is back again.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told the Senate the idea that the illegal migrants he's mass-releasing into the U.S. might just have something to do with replacing the voters with newly minted Democrats was "preposterous."

In fact, it was an "insult," based on all the 'work' he said he was doing to create legal pathways to mass migration.

He never answered the question that was put in front of him, but made an umbrageous denial of sorts in a testy exchange with Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana:

It's quite a denial, because it's pretty obvious that's what's going on as thousands of migrants flood the cities, and more to the point, it's what the public believes is going on.

In fact, coming from Mayorkas, it's more likely to mean it's completely true. This is the same guy who assured the public that 'the border is secure' until he was forced by the reality shown from the television cameras and the city streets to admit it wasn't. He's lied repeatedly about numbers of illegals released into the country, about detention beds filled up that weren't, and every possible matter this side of COVID that it's possible to lie about.

Mayorkas was slippery as always in his denial, refusing to answer Kennedy's question about congressional representation at all, yet seemed to admit that he was mass releasing all comers into the country under the rubric that it was now legal and he was making it 'legal' with legal 'pathways.'

Congress, of course, is responsible for setting immigration numbers, so his release of illegals, along with his de facto declaration that he has made them 'legal' was pretty much a confirmation that Biden's open borders are all about replacement theory.

My transcript:

KENNEDY: ...Again, it gives me no joy to say this, I think well more than a majority of the American people think that as a result of your behavior, and President Biden's behavior, our Southern border is an open, bleeding wound. I think they believe that our Southern border is chaotic. I think a vast majority of the American people believe that a lot of it is political. I think a vast majority of the American people believe that it is chaotic by design. And that all of this is intentional. And I think a vast majoirty of the American people, who don't trust you, believe in legal immigration, they don't believe in illegal immigration. And they think you do. And they think President Biden does. And they think that's why the border is open, and they think that your attitude, and President Biden's attitude, is that while they may be poorer under President Biden, that they're stupid enough to believe you and the president when you say that's not your problem. I think that needed to be said. Isn't it a fact that the number of illegal immigrants that you and the president allow into our country counts for congressional district reapportionment? MAYORKAS: Senator, I'm not sure I understand your question, but I can surely share with you that I disagree with its phrasing. KENNEDY: Isn't it true, Mr. Secretary, that the number of illegal immigrants that you and President Biden have allowed into our country counts for allocating electoral votes? MAYORKAS: Same answer. KENNEDY: You don't know? MAYORKAS: I don't understand your question. KENNEDY: Never crossed your mind? MAYORKAS: The notion, Senator, that we intend to allow illegal immigration is nothing short of preposterous. KENNEDY: So you do understand my question. MAYORKAS: If I may, it is disrespectful to the extraordinarily hard work that we perform, and far more importantly, that the personnel in the Department of Homeland Security and across this administration perform, to stem illegal immigration and built lawful, safe, and orderly pathways, and invest in a working system. We only wish that that bipartisan legislation about which I have not heard a critical term ... KENNEDY: Mr. Secretary, you're using up my time. You do this every single time. You do this every single time. And it's a fact, and you know it, and I know it: That the more people you allow into our country illegally, the more people are counted for reapportionment. And the more people that you allow into our country illegally, the more people are counted for allocating electoral votes. Now maybe that's a coincidence, but that's a fact. And you know that. And you have done nothing. Zero. Zilch. And in fact, the only people I know in this country who are better off today than they were four years ago are illegal immigrants! And that's as a result of your policy. I don't hate you for it, I don't hate anyone. But that's why you've been impeached.

Kennedy was fierce and direct, ratting out Mayorkas' deceptions and evasions. At least he got out of him the Mayorkas talking points about how he's working so "hard" to create legal pathways that he has no authority to create, and which aren't even legal given that U.S. law requires illegal border crossers to be detained, with "parole" allowed only in exceptional circumstances. Of course this is about replacement theory. With voters fleeing blue states, Democrats are looking for ways to replace those lost congressional seats and need warm bodies to preserve their failing flight-driven districts. Anything but change policies to bring these voters back.

He should be commended for exposing yet another bed of lies coming out of the most dishonest and unpopular member of the Biden administration, based on the fact that he's done the most damage to our rule of law and the fabric of our country itself.

Image: Screen shot from Forbes Breaking News video, via YouTube
New York politicians hatred of police has led to short-staffing and rising crime in the city. Now they seem to determined to do the same thing to the New York Fire Department.

Last month, FDNY commissioner Laura Kavanagh said she would hunt down firefighters who booed New York attorney general Letitia James during a promotion ceremony.

Videos of the ceremony show the crowd booing James and chanting Trump while James was speaking. Although she acted at the time as though it was no big deal, behind the scenes, you know what hit the fan.

According to The Daily Caller, memos and emails from the Uniformed Fire Officers Association (UFOA) and Uniformed Firefighters Association circulated on social media that criticized the firefighters for their actions as inappropriate to do on the jobs time and insisted that those firefighters must do better.

This would have been an appropriate and understandable response. An argument can be made that it was inappropriate, but it was also free speech.

Those firefighters dont give up their right to free speech when they become firefighters. They werent violent. It was a peaceful assembly, which is also guaranteed under the First Amendment.

However, the FDNY brass took things too far. FDNY chief of department John Hodges told members of the FDNY in an email that the departments Bureau of Investigation and Trials would identify those who booed and take action against them.

BITS is investigating this, so they will figure out who the members are, Hodges wrote. I recommend they come forward. I have been told by the commissioner it will be better for them if they come forward and we dont have to hunt them down.

He demanded a list of the participants and said that if they dont come forward, they will be tracked down using video from the event.

Attorney Alan Dershowitz told The New York Post, Firefighters have an absolute constitutional right to boo the attorney general, and the government has no power to punish them for it. So efforts to get the names of the booers is an effort by the government to chill free speech and is unconstitutional.

Although the NYFD backed off this witch hunt, the problem didnt end.

Brooklyn Federal Court judge Nicholas Garaufis recently cited the incident to imply that a racist culture persists at the FDNY. He ordered Kavanagh and corporation counsel Sylvia Hinds-Radix to appear before him at a status conference to discuss the settlement in the Vulcan Society of Black Firefighters case against the FDNY in May, the New York Daily News reported.

Ive lived in New York City all my life. I know what the problem is. And believe me, front and center is what happened the other day. This doesnt have to do with politics, this has to do with race, Garaufis responded, according to N.Y. Daily News.

I dont know if you had an opportunity to just see the vile nature of these members even when we were at Christian Cultural Center where they started booing and saying Trump, Trump Trump, while Letitia James was at the podium, said Vulcan Society president Regina Wilson. This behavior is who this department is. Not all of them, but a large portion of them. So when Black people go to work and have to deal with this and you dont get any help or support really from the department, its horrific.

The Vulcan Society accused the city of discrimination in 2007. The city agreed to settle for $98 million in back pay and benefits for aspiring minority firefighters in 2014. In 2011, Garaufis ruled that firefighter exams intentionally discriminated against black people, according to the Daily News. A federal appeals court later overturned that conclusion but allowed Garaufiss solution, including the appointment of a federal monitor, to stand.

So now city officials show once again that they dont care about first responders, other than as a voting block to keep them in office. It is something first responders are realizing.

They are also realizing that with first responders in demand across the country, they dont have to remain where they arent appreciated and are hated. Police led the way in the exodus from the city. Firefighters will surely follow, and New Yorkers will suffer.

Michael A. Letts is the CEO and Founder of In-VestUSA, a national grassroots non-profit organization helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs.

Image via Picryl.
Since 2016, more than 200 humpback whales have died and been stranded on beaches along the East Coast, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric (NOAA). In fact, NOAA is so concerned about the sheer number of dead humpback whales in this region that it has labeled the situation an unusual mortality event.

Likewise, NOAA has declared an unusual mortality event regarding the mysterious mass deaths of the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale along the East Coast. As NOAA notes, more than 125 North Atlantic right whales have been found dead, seriously injured, or sublethally injured from 2017 to 2024.

Interestingly, the drastic spike in whale deaths along the U.S. East Coast began exactly when offshore wind farm companies began using geotechnical and site characterization surveys in this region of the Atlantic Ocean.

Geotechnical and site characterization surveys are prerequisites for the construction of massive offshore wind farms that rely on the use of sonar waves to map the ocean floor. However, these activities, which require an Incidental Harassment Authorization from NOAA, have also been shown to wreak havoc on whales.

According to Cindy Zipf, executive director of Clean Ocean Action, It is plausible to question whether offshore wind pre-construction activities, which are happening concurrently in this region, are a contributing factor in these deaths.

She added that this many whale deaths in this short of a timespan is unprecedented and notes that preconstruction activities have already led to substantially more ships and vessels in the area, which increase potential ship strikes, and sonar can deafen or disorient whales, leading them into the path of oncoming vessels.

Clean Ocean Action is not the only environmental group raising concern about the negative potential impacts that offshore wind farm construction activities can produce on whales.

In December 2021, Save the Whales, along with nine other organizations, sent a letter to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), stating, There is reason for grave concern because offshore wind farms use equipment that emit sounds of the same sound frequencies as the calls of the North American Right Whales.

The letter also documents that BOEM, under Biden-Harris Administration, continues to decline to make an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) prior to lease sale of ocean areas, even knowing that such lease sales, with 100% certainty, will result in sea floor exploration/SAP activities requiring ensonification, and knowing that, based on the sound frequency at which NARW communicate, adverse effects on the remaining NARW population of such sound-producing site-characterization activities are highly likely.

Whats more, even the NOAA admits that ocean noise from human activity can alter whale behavior, stress the animals, and in some cases, cause disorientation or hearing loss.

The mainstream media has bent over backwards to convince the general public that offshore wind farms do not present a clear and present danger to whales. In late 2023, the Associated Press released an article titled, Contrary to politicians claims, offshore wind farms dont kill whales. However, this article deserves a giant asterisk because it all hinges on this sentence: Experts say theres no evidence that limited wind farm construction on the Atlantic Coast has directly resulted in any whale deaths. Notice the use of the word directly in the sentence above. By inserting that single word, the authors would like you to believe that the whale deaths since the start of these construction projects is not the direct reason for the rise in whale deaths, but rather it is coincidental, an indirect result.

That is ludicrous. We know that the construction of these mega-sized offshore wind farms happens to coincide with a steep rise in whale deaths in the exact same area where the construction and pre-construction activities are taking place.

Although correlation does not automatically lead to causation, in this particular instance, it sure seems likely that there is a connection between the rapid rise in whale deaths and the pre-construction and construction activities of the offshore wind farms along the U.S. East Coast.

Chris Talgo (ctalgo@heartland.org) is editorial director at The Heartland Institute.

Image: National Marine Sanctuaries
BANGKOK, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Three white generator units are operating at full capacity in Thailand's Koh Sichang Power Plant to meet the electricity demand of the island's residents, as Thailand is entering the hottest season of the year.

With an area of 17 square km and a population of over 5,000, Koh Sichang island is approximately 100 km away from Bangkok, Thailand's capital city.

The Koh Sichang Power Plant project was contracted by Thailand's Namsang Group and built by China's Weichai Group. With a 3 megawatt capacity powered by three generator units, the plant has been operating safely for five years since it was put into operation in March 2019.

"The generator units of Weichai helped us a lot," said Pattana Ketkaew, deputy mayor of Koh Sichang Subdistrict. He recalled that the submarine cable to the island was accidentally cut off by a navigable vessel several years ago, resulted in insufficient power supply. Due to lack of power, the seafood on the island could not be frozen and stored, which caused significant losses.

Zhang Xuechao, assistant general manager of Weichai Electric Power Equipment Company, said that the power plant primarily serves the local merchants and residents on the island, operating for an average of 16 hours per day and has accumulated a stable operation of 30,000 hours so far.

The temperature and humidity in Southeast Asian islands are relatively high, causing strong corrosiveness to equipment and materials. "This unique climate environment brought severe challenges to the operation of the generator units, so we made targeted improvements based on the characteristics of the island," said Zhang.

Giving an example, Zhang said the cooling system were zoned to ensure the continuous and stable operation in high-temperatures. Anti-corrosion and anti-salt spray were also specially designed.

Pattana said the entire island has been benefitted from the power plant, not only providing daily electricity to the residents, but also ensuring the commercial needs of hotels and restaurants.

"I was often worried about power outages in the past, and the insufficient power supply had a great impact on my restaurant business. Currently, I am confident to run the restaurant because of the stable power supply and it also brings opportunities to the island's tourism industry," said Rat Ketdunri, a restaurant owner in Koh Sichang island.

At the ceremony celebrating the plant's 30,000 operational hours on Wednesday, Tan Xuguang, chairman of Weichai Group, presented the Thai customer, Namsang Group, a "Lifetime Warranty" service commitment certificate.

Tan said that the successful operation of Koh Sichang Power Plant has not only improved the quality of life of local residents, but also enhanced the reputation of Chinese companies in Thailand. In the future, Weichai will provide Thai customers with more efficient and reliable power solutions.

Calling Chinese projects "reliable," Suranan Tankunakorn, managing director of Namsang Group, thanked Weichai's continuous technical support. He hoped that both sides will expand cooperation and develop more high-quality projects tailored to Thailand's market. 
I would never vote for Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., because hes a leftist. Hes been right about the vaccinations, and he certainly gets credit for sticking to his guns on that one, but his leftist bona fides, including a once-expressed desire to lock up climate deniers, are both old and deep. However, RFK has been on an anti-Democrat truth-telling binge lately, probably because the Democrat party used illicit means to prevent him from competing in the primaries.

In this case, his truth-telling takes the form of pushing back against the Democrat narrative that Trump is an insurrectionist who sought to corrupt the 2020 election. He appeared on Dave Rubins Rubin Report for an interview, during the course of which he described how CNNs Erin Burnett couldnt cope with his telling her that Trump did nothing illegal during and after the 2020 electionbut that Biden has been engaging in unconstitutional censorship during the 2024 election cycle:

RFK Jr. Says Erin Burnetts Brain Stopped Working When He Made Stunning Argument Against Biden on CNN



She had this kind of astonished lookher brain stopped working.



Kennedy says, Theres no court thats found that President Trump tried to steal the election or tried to pic.twitter.com/paAYdAuz9C  The Vigilant Fox  (@VigilantFox) April 11, 2024

RJK, Jr., is absolutely correct. The media narrative bears no relationship to the reality of who Trump is, what hes said, or what hes done.

Most recently, the narrative is that Trump is threatening a bloodbath and, indeed, the New York Times is working hard to promulgate that belief. On April 6, Maureen Dowd dredged up from the fever swamp of her brain the charge that Trump is literally drenched in blood, even going so far as to quote Macbeth to make her point. No wonder she or her editors titled the essay Donald Trumps Insatiable Bloodlust.

Just four days later, the NY Times ran Caroline Fredericksons opinion piece entitled What Worries Me Most About Trump Presidency. And guess what worries her most? That bloodbath.

Never mind that the charge has been shown to be utterly false. Trump used the term in its normal American sense of an economic disaster. For Democrats, there will be blood.

In the same way, George Snuffleupagus called Trump a rapist. To her credit, Nancy Mace pushed back against this calumny, which in a normal time and place would be actionable.

And of course, for years weve been hearing the fine people hoax, which alleges that Trump supports the KKK as well as the grab em by the p***y hoax (Trump was speaking hypothetically about avaricious women and rich men), and the Russia collusion hoax.

The list of hoaxes is endless. But what RFK, Jr., has revealed is that media talking heads believe them. If Burnett knew (as she should) that the narrative shes pushing is unrelated to the facts, her eyes wouldnt have bugged out of her head as they did.

Obama and his Democrat cronies (Marc Elias and others) may be cynical, but many in the media are talking heads who are true believers. They will say anything to support the Democrat Church, which is fine with Satan (he was just misunderstood) but has made Trump the embodiment of all that is evil.

Image: X screen grab (cropped).
Self-hating Jews, Queers4Palestine, and conservatives walk into a bar and ask for the strongest drink available. The bartender says, Are you sure? Its pretty potent. One from the groups replies, Were not afraid of extinction; were embracing it!

Now that you have wiped the laugh tears from your eyes and your knees have stopped hurting from the slapping, lets look at why this joke works.

Its the math.

John Allen Paulos explains the math of humor in his book Mathematics and Humor.

Paulos argues that both math and humor involve pattern recognition, misdirection, and resolution of cognitive tensions. Math uses logical patterns, while humor subverts expected patterns, one of which is how absurd premises stretched to logical conclusions become funny by exposing the paradoxes and limitations of formal reasoning systems. Overall, Paulos posits that math and humor are linked by their dependence on patterns, derailed expectations, and resolutions of cognitive dissonance.

The cognitive dissonance and the stretching of absurd premises to logical conclusions unite these fools. They are further united with Poseur Biden in that they are par compost mentis (roughly translated as s*** for brains) or decompos mentis. Take your pick.

Easiest to demonstrate among these groups is the profound stupidity of Queers4Palestine since a picture explains it all. And a picture is worth a thousand screeds:

Image: Internet meme.

The group of activists in the uper photo clearly has a death wish that manifests itself as a burning desire to receive a Darwin Award. Wish them luck. The good to come from their demise will hopefully serve as a teachable moment. Cognitive dissonance on toast.

Likewise, the self-hating Jews, i.e., those who support Hamas and the So-Called Palestinians (SCPs), have a death wish. It is no secret that the object of their love will kill them given half a chance. They say as much in their Covenant:

Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it. [snip] The Prophet, Allah bless him and grant him salvation, has said: "The Day of Judgement will not come about until Moslems fight the Jews (killing the Jews), when the Jew will hide behind stones and trees. The stones and trees will say O Moslems, O Abdulla, there is a Jew behind me, come and kill him. [directing the killing of Jews, drawing on a hadith]

The absurd premise of these Jews taken to its logical conclusion will stretch them fully in their final repose six feet under.

Which brings us to the conservatives.

What is wrong with these people? Are they unable to see how they, too, are sabotaging themselves? What is it with their abortion policy death wish? While the Arizona Supreme Court was correct that you simply cannot wish away an old law you do not like, Republicans are now determined to make abortion an issue in their state as we draw near a contentious election that sees progressive Democrats have abortion as the only arrow in their quiver.

There is an absolutely fundamental question that needs to be addressed: In the short term, with the federal government at stake, why do conservatives care if Dems/Progs/Libs (DPLs) want to sacrifice their unborn?

Because it is the right thing to do, is not a valid answer as we head to the election. Right for whom? To whom? For what result?

The cemetery is filled with people who had the right of way. They were right. They are dead.

Every life is precious. Protect our most defenseless. Great bumper stickers and talking points. Terrible policy, assuming conservatives want to take power, that is.

For the here and now, if you are a conservative and nip abortion in the bud legislatively, DPLs will unite and find illegal ways to cast even more votes than otherwise. They are motivated. You will lose at the fraudulent ballot box and all your chest-thumping will have been for naught.

Looking forward, being right and caring that future DPLs are born is self-destructive because, given the stats on who gets them, restrictions will result in more DPLs. Even if the DPLs lose a national election or four, in 18 years + 9 months, when the children that result from Republican policies vote, they will reverse it all. And then some.

To see the future of conservatives, if abortion is illegalized or severely restricted, look no further than here. These bastards will kill you as it is their way in virtually every country around the world. (e.g., ISIS, only)

Abortion is the gift DPLs give to conservatives. Do not squander it. Better still, start a GoFundMe to establish Planned Parenthood Clinics in Dearborn, MI.
Samsungs April update is quickly spreading to all eligible models worldwide. The company has just released the latest security patch for the Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S20 FE, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 3, and Galaxy A52 in several global markets. Most of these devices have already received the update in the US.

The Galaxy S22 series gets the April update globally

Yesterday, Samsung released the April SMR (Security Maintenance Release) for the US versions of the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, and Galaxy S22 Ultra. The update is now rolling out in Europe. It comes with the firmware build number S90*BXXS8DXD2. Users in other regions such as Latin America, Africa, Australia, and Asia should also soon receive the update.

This new SMR comes without any additional goodies. The 2022 Samsung flagships are picking up 40-odd security fixes and nothing more. They will get AI features and other improvements with the One UI 6.1 update in May. The Korean firm has already confirmed that the Galaxy S22 series will get most of the new AI features found on the Galaxy S24 lineup.

This months security patch is also rolling out to the Galaxy S20 FE, which is done getting feature updates. The rollout has begun in Europe. Both 4G and 5G versions of the phone are getting the update. According to SamMobile, the new build numbers are G780GXXS9EXC6 and G781BXXSAHXC6, respectively. A global rollout should follow soon.

The Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Galaxy Z Fold 3, which have already received the April SMR in the US, are also now getting it in other regions. The update for the former is available globally with the build number F721BXXS5EXD1. The latter, meanwhile, is currently only picking up the new security patch in Europe. The new build number for this phone is F926BXXS6GXD1.

Note that the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 have received this update in several global markets recently. If you havent got it wait, fret not. Samsung will gradually cover all units. This applies to other Galaxy devices as well. Since updates are released in batches, some users may receive them later than others. The changelogs mostly remain unchanged.

The Galaxy A52s is also getting the April SMR

The Galaxy A52s is another Samsung phone that recently started picking up the April SMR. This phone had a limited release (didnt arrive in the US) and the company is currently updating it in Europe. You will get the update with firmware version A528BXXS7FXC8. The device will get One UI 6.1 in May or June, though it is unlikely to get new AI features.
dbrand is well-known for two things  creating device skins and using humor to maintain a lively presence on social media. Typically, its responses to customer feedback are light-hearted; however, it recently crossed the line by mocking a customers surname.

On April 8, Bhuwan Chitransh, a user based in India, tweeted about a Mac skin purchased from dbrand that was fading. Instead of providing a proper response, dbrand retweeted Bhuwans tweet with a derogatory comment about his surname. The retweet read Your last name is basically shit rash, be serious,.

Following this reply, dbrand received hate from users who found the response highly unprofessional, offensive, and racist. Bhuwan also expressed dissatisfaction with dbrands reply, stating that it reflected their invaluable perspective towards Indian customers.

Initially, dbrand thought that the situation would cool down, and it even mentioned that it would not apologize for the tweet. However, after receiving a significant amount of hate, dbrand issued an apology statement on X. The tweet read:

Well that escalated quickly.

1. Yes  we made fun of a guys name. It was a huge fumble.

2. We apologized to him directly and offered him $10,000 as a gesture of goodwill.

3. Weve been poking fun at customers on social media for over a decade now. Were not going to stop, but maybe next time youll be the one who gets $10,000.

While dbrand mentioned in the tweet that it made a mistake by making fun of Bhuwans surname, the company also mentioned that it is not going to stop doing this. This statement clearly shows that dbrand was not serious about the apology and it offered a $10,000 bribe to just close the matter.

Entrer, MKBHD

After compensating Bhuwan with $10,000 for the racist tweet, dbrand thought that the situation would cool down. However, the real twist was yet to come. Marques Brownlee, popularly known as MKBHD, came in support of Bhuwan and tweeted that he would not be working with dbrand until the company deleted the original tweet, in which it made fun of Bhuwans surname.

Following this tweet from MKBHD, dbrand immediately deleted the racist tweet and replied to MKBHDs tweet that the team understood that the response was wrong and would be more careful about it going forward.

MKBHD thanked dbrand for the apology and mentioned that he had known the brand for a long time. It did not want to harm anyones emotions, but it somehow crossed the line this time.
Google has recently shut down its podcasting service, and another one will follow it. VPN by Google One will soon say goodbye, and follow Google Podcasts to the afterlife. It will meet plenty of other services there.

VPN by Google is on its way to the afterlife to join Google Podcasts, Hangouts, Google+ & others

Users like to poke fun at Google and use the term Google graveyard, as Google killed off tons of services thus far. Some of them were truly liked by users, which created this whole shtick with Google graveyard.

As a reminder, Inbox by Google was an especially painful cut for many Google users. Google Podcasts was also a loved service, and despite the fact that Google+ wasnt used by as many people as Google would have liked, that one also hurt many. Then theres Hangouts, and so on. There are plenty of services to talk about, and theyre listed here.

Now, its worth noting that while the VPN by Google One is going away, the Pixel VPN is here to stay. VPN by Google One will be killed off in the coming months, Google did not share the exact time.

As a reminder, VPN by Google One is available on both Android and iOS, as far as mobile platforms are concerned. It is also available to Windows and Mac users. Its also quite affordable too.

Its going away because people simply werent using it

Google told 9to5Google that theyre discontinuing the VPN feature because people simply werent using it. The company also added that this will allow it to support more in-demand features with Google One.

Google will provide its current users with third-party alternatives, of course. When it comes to the Pixel VPN, no changes have been announced. It launched with the Pixel 7 in 2022, and Google guaranteed support for 5 years. So no worries on that front.
MANILA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The performance of manufacturing production in the Philippines sustained its growth in February, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Friday.

Based on the preliminary results of a monthly survey, the PSA said the year-on-year value of production index (VaPI) and the volume of production index (VoPI) increased 7.5 percent and 8.9 percent in February, respectively.

The PSA said the February VaPI was faster than the 5 percent year-on-year growth in January, bringing the average VaPI growth rate from January to February this year to 6.2 percent. In February 2023, the VaPI yearly growth was 6.7 percent.

The agency attributed the expansion in the annual growth of the VaPI in February to the double-digit yearly increase in the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products at 14.7 percent in February from an annual rise of 0.4 percent in the previous month. The manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products contributed 45.5 percent to the faster annual increase of VaPI for the manufacturing section in February 2024.

Out of the 22 industry divisions for the manufacturing section, the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products was the second industry division with the highest weight in the computation of VaPI. Other main contributors were the manufacture of chemical and chemical products, and manufacture of food products.

On the other hand, the PSA said the February VoPI was faster than the annual growth rate of 6.2 percent in January, bringing the average growth rate of VoPI from January to February this year to 7.5 percent. In February 2023, VoPI recorded an annual increase of 2.6 percent.

The agency said the expansion in the VoPI for manufacturing's annual growth in February was mainly brought about by the yearly double-digit increase in the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products, which increased to 13.4 percent from an annual decline of 1.4 percent in the previous month. The manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products contributed 45.2 percent to the higher annual increment of VoPI for the manufacturing section in February 2024.

Other main contributors to the higher year-on-year growth of VoPI in February were the manufacture of food products and manufacture of chemical and chemical products. Of the remaining 19 industry divisions, nine industry divisions posted annual declines during the period. The highest annual drop was observed in other manufacturing and repair and installation of machinery and equipment at 23.7 percent. 
'AuDHD' is an unofficial term to describe someone diagnosed with both autism and ADHD. (Getty Images)

You've likely heard of the rising rates of ADHD and those seeking a diagnosis, largely due to a growing understanding that it's not just something naughty school boys have.

We're also realising autism is often left undiagnosed for years, especially in women, and are starting to embrace neurodiversity and a different way of thinking, rather than seeing it as the problem (though we still have a way to go).

And with that, there has now come a rise of what has been dubbed 'AuDHD'  while the hashtag has nearly 275,000 posts on TikTok and even more views, it is far from just a 'trend'. A diagnosis of both autism and ADHD was deemed impossible to co-exist until fairly recently, but is life-changing for those now proving how wrong that was.

"I was diagnosed as autistic at 44 after both my children were, then a year later I was diagnosed with ADHD after my wife and children had been too. I have found there is a lot of looking back over my life and unpicking what I said or did, now I know I am neurodivergent," says Kelly Grainger, neurodiversity speaker and co-founder of Perfectly Autistic.

So, here's a look at exactly what 'AuDHD' is, why more are being diagnosed with both, and why professionals should be familiar with a range of neurodivergent conditions when making assessments.

What is 'AuDHD'?

Kelly Grainger was diagnosed with autism and then ADHD in his mid 40s. (Supplied)

"'AuDHD' is a term many autistic individuals who also have ADHD use to describe themselves," says Dr Fleur-Michelle Coiffait, consultant clinical psychologist, associate fellow of the British Psychological Society and clinical lead for neurodiversity at Spectrum Life.

"Autism and ADHD often co-occur, with recent research suggesting that 50-70% of autistic people also meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD." Dr. Coiffait has ADHD herself, while her daughter is autistic and due to be assessed for ADHD.

"The combination of both," explains the psychologist, "results in a unique pattern of strengths and challenges that differs from what we see when someone experiences only one of these, as aspects of each can compensate for, complicate and mask the other."

While everyone is different, for Grainger, he says, "I find that my autistic brain and my ADHD brain are often at odds with one another, fighting for control, which is incredibly challenging. On the one hand my autism brain doesnt like change, it wants perfection and order and to know exactly what is happening, every minute of the day. On the other hand is my ADHD brain, fast, carefree, full of energy and buzzing with hundreds of thoughts and ideas all at once.

"I find that my autistic brain and my ADHD brain are often at odds with one another, fighting for control

"This can often be mentally exhausting. But it has also shaped who I am and is the reason I have been successful in many areas of my life."

Dr Coiffait says research has identified differences in the prefrontal cortex brain region in both autistic and ADHD individuals and there is also evidence of similar genetic factors and heritability, although this is complex and not yet fully understood.

'AuDHD' from then to now  why the rise?

"It is likely that this was always there, rather than the actual numbers of neurodivergent individuals increasing, but we have become much better at identifying it," says Dr Coiffait.

So how did we get here? Dr Jessica Eccles, spokesperson for the Royal College of Psychiatrists, explains, "Historically, people have either been diagnosed with autism or ADHD. While these are two distinct conditions, our understanding of them has grown, and it has become increasingly clear they can co-exist."

Why were ADHD and autism previously considered mutually exclusive? "Until 2013 when the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders was updated, the previous edition listed autism as an exclusion criterion for ADHD," says Dr Coiffait

"Part of the reason that it was previously thought that autism and ADHD couldnt occur together is because many of the traits appear to contradict each other [as described above]."

Since the revision of the diagnostic criteria for ADHD and autism, Dr Coiffait says it "has resulted in more people exploring whether these diagnoses could help them understand their experiences" and "many more people have been identified with both".

Dr Eccles points out we don't know exactly how many people are being diagnosed with both conditions but  due the high estimates of autistic people also potentially having ADHD  it's possible we'll start seeing this occur more in the future. For now, it's evident across social media, online neurodivergent groups and among experts in the field.

Who is experiencing 'AuDHD'?

From Gen Z to Gen X, anyone might have 'AuDHD', but their diagnosis experience might vary. (Getty Images) (Catherine Falls Commercial via Getty Images)

"There are no readily available figures regarding people being diagnosed with both and their ages and it may be that they are diagnosed at the same time or years apart," explains Dr Coiffait.

"In my clinical experience, I am working with more and more adults where they experience both and this may explain why they have reached adulthood before it is identified as the picture can be less obvious when both occur together. However, I am also seeing many children and young people where a combination of both contributes to their individual picture."

Diagnosing ADHD and autism

Dr Coiffait believes its important professionals making diagnoses are familiar with multiple forms of neurodivergence. (Getty Images) (SDI Productions via Getty Images)

So what does the diagnosis process look like for both? "There is no blood test or single biological marker for either ADHD or autism and they are both identified on the basis of reported (by the individual themselves and/or others who know them well) and directly observed indicators set out in the diagnostic criteria (things that the assessing professional sees and experiences through directly interacting with and spending time with the individual).

"However, the NICE guidance for assessing autism and ADHD identifies key elements of a good assessment that should form part of both types of assessment."

Dr Coiffait believes it's important professionals are always looking to learn and update their knowledge and follow the most up to date evidence-based guidance. "Many professionals, me included, did not have access to the knowledge that is now available when we completed our training."

She also says it's important professionals are familiar with both ADHD and autism and both are considered in assessments, along with other forms of neurodivergence (e.g. dyspraxia and dyslexia), to help paint the whole picture and unpick what is what.

Professionals assessing for autism and/or ADHD should be familiar with both, as well as other forms of neurodivergence, so they can unpick what is what

Dr Eccles acknowledges that both autism and ADHD services have seen a significant rise in the number of people coming forward for support, which has led to increasingly long waiting times. "We need more investment, as well as joined up services, to ensure people receive a timely diagnosis and high-quality follow-up support," she says.

"People who have traits associated with autism and ADHD should also be offered reasonable adjustments at school or work while they wait for an assessment," Dr Eccles adds.

Managing 'AuDHD'

Dr Coiffait believes the diversity of all our different brains is something that enriches us all. (Getty Images) (xavierarnau via Getty Images)

"Autism is not something that we should be looking to treat or remove'," says Dr Coiffait.

"It is a different way of thinking, making sense of and understanding the world that also brings many strengths and positives and enriches our world," she emphasises. "The reason it presents difficulties for autistic people is because they are in the minority, in a world designed by and for the majority  which is neurotypical people. The mismatch between autistic thinking and behaving and neurotypical thinking and behaving is what presents challenges for many autistic people."

And on ADHD medication (for those who choose to take it), she explains, "It does not tend to change core features of autism if someone is AuDHD. ADHD medication can reduce aspects of their ADHD and make these less obvious, which can in turn result in their autistic features becoming more obvious or apparent. Various medications are used to treat ADHD features if they are causing challenges for an individual and each person will respond to these differently.

"Therefore, those prescribing ADHD medication (paediatricians, psychiatrists or nurse prescribers) carefully monitor and review ADHD medication regularly through a process called titration, in order to identify the most beneficial medication and dose for that individual that improves their quality of life and functioning with minimal side effects. For AuDHDers, it is important that their prescriber is skilled, experienced and familiar with working with people with both autism and ADHD."

Dr Coiffait adds, "I firmly believe that neurodiversity, the diversity of all our different brains, is something that enriches us and is essential to our survival as a species, in the same way biodiversity is for other living species on Earth."

"Neurodiversity is something that enriches us and is essential to our survival as a species

Watch:NHS cannot meet 'avalanche' of demand for autism and ADHD services, warns thinktank
Systemic failures by services supporting a transgender teenager who took his own life could have contributed to his death, a jury inquest has concluded.

After a five-day-inquest, jurors said that Jason Pulman, 15, who was found dead in Hampden Park in Eastbourne on April 19, 2022, died by suicide potentially because of his mental health and gender identity issues.

The jury at Hastings Coroners Court said there were failings by all services involved in Jasons care and that the police inadequately responded to his disappearance.

The jury said: Jasons emotional and mental health needs were inadequately assessed and provided for.

Systemic communication and administrative failures by all of the organisations involved in his care, with the exception of Bexhill College, may possibly have been contributing factors.

We refer in particular, to the fact that the police responded inadequately to the missing person report and failed to keep the family informed, bearing in mind Jason was a child with a history of complex needs.

During the inquest, jurors heard how Mark and Emily Pulman last saw Jason on April 18 at 7.30pm, and when going to wake him up in the morning found his door tied shut and his bedroom window open.

Once they reported it to the police, Jasons disappearance from home as classed as medium risk as they believed there was nothing to suggest immediate risk of suicide.

The coroners court heard how Jason struggled with his mental health in adolescence and began self harming aged 13 and had later tried to kill himself.

Mark and Emily Pulman last saw son Jason Pulman on the evening of April 18 2022 (PA)

Of the police response, Mrs Pulman told the PA news agency: I felt their response was inadequate. We didnt hear anything from them.

I would repeatedly call them and we just got told someone will be with you when theyre available and then we didnt hear anything until 7.30pm which was an hour before Jason took his life so it was completely inadequate.

I strongly believe that if he was listened to he would have been found.

The teenager, who was born a girl, came out as transgender aged 14 and was referred to the Gender Identity Development Service (Gids) in London in February 2020 by his GP.

After following up on its progress in October that year, he was told there was a 26-month wait for his first appointment.

Jurors heard how Jason became increasingly frustrated at the wait and his stepfather Mr Pulman noted in the months before his death he appeared to have given up in his behaviour to his family and himself.

Asked by the coroner what his main struggles were in 2022 before he died, his mother Mrs Pulman said his gender dysphoria, relationships and friends, the coroner said.

It was reported Mrs Pulman said: He was just waiting for it all to make sense, he had so much confusion going on in his head.

While Mr Pulman told PA news agency that Jason was self-medicating on drugs and alcohol which could impact his mindset, he said of his Gids referral: In his world, that was the answer, in his world we dont know whether that was the whole answer, but to him that appointment was everything.

Mrs Pulman added: He was driving himself crazy waiting for that appointment because when was it coming? When was he going to get help?

My son died a lost boy because he was so confused by the end that he didnt know what he was or what he was doing.

Jasons inquest comes as the Cass Review into childrens gender care was published earlier this week and recognised shortfalls in the workforce and that it was very distressing that some people are sitting on a waiting list, not knowing whats going to happen to them, not knowing where to get information, and feeling really isolated.

In a statement following the inquest, Mrs Pulman said she hoped lessons would be learned from Jasons death.

She said: We hope CAMHS will be properly resourced. We hope the police will learn how to risk assess, and not set the bar too high.

This week, above all, we hope the government will stop toxifying this whole issue, and just look at the children.

Paying tribute to Jason, the 38-year-old added: He was a kid that wanted to change the world, that wanted to fight for causes he believed in and he did do.

He was just so genuine and just wanted everyone to be happy and feel comfortable, which is what he wanted as well.

A Sussex Police spokesman said: Our sincere condolences remain with Jasons family following their tragic loss.

Our service fell below the standards expected and we accept the coroners findings.

Following a full internal review into the circumstances leading to Jasons death, a senior officer met with Jasons family in person to formally apologise.

A multi-agency working group was launched to share learning and put measures in place to ensure vulnerable children with complex mental health needs receive the best possible service.

The force also said it introduced contingency measures for checking reports are resourced and graded appropriately.

A Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson also said they fully accepted the findings and apologised that more support was not offered to Jason.

They added: We are committed to supporting children and young people who are experiencing mental ill health related to their gender identity, and delivering care in a holistic way, in line with national guidelines.

An East Sussex County Council spokesperson also said: We continue to work with partners to identify any lessons we could learn to improve the way we support young people with complex needs.
Supporters of Extinction Rebellion (XR) were joined by broadcaster and environmental campaigner Chris Packham as they staged a protest at a gallery in the Science Museum in London.

More than 30 people, including scientists, occupied Energy Revolution, the museums new climate gallery, on Friday in protest over its sponsorship by Adani, a large coal-producing company.

The firm is also involved in the manufacturing of drones for the Israeli military, XR claimed.

BREAKING: @sciencemuseum is OCCUPIED We intend to stay the weekend in protest against the museum's sponsorship deal with coal producer and human rights abuser @AdaniOnline. Follow @y_climatejust and @ScientistsX for updates! Join us tomorrow  details in ! 1/ pic.twitter.com/GwStjuD91k  youth action for climate justice (@y_climatejust) April 12, 2024

Protesters led by Youth Action for Climate Justice held up a series of banners, including Teach us the truth and Adani kills, and created a display of black balls symbolising coal.

They said they intended to remain in the museum over the weekend, with the first school visits to the gallery beginning on Monday.

Speaking to the protesters, Packham said: Science tells us that the fossil fuel industry is responsible for the accelerating destruction of our natural world. The Science Museum is a place to spark imagination, to provide answers but also to encourage us to ask questions.

The question Im asking today is a big one, why on earth are we allowing a destructive industry to sponsor an educational exhibition whilst simultaneously setting fire to young peoples futures?

This is beyond greenwash  its grotesque.

Chris Packham spoke to the group (Andrea Domeniconi/PA)

Dr Aaron Thierry, a scientist who joined the protest, said: Its not just Adanis brand that the science museum is greenwashing, theyre also allowing the oil and gas giants BP and Equinor to sponsor their exhibits, disregarding the fact that these companies continue to expand fossil fuel production against the warnings of climate scientists.

That an institution like the Science Museum is working with such rogue companies is a disgrace.

The museums management needs to follow the example of Britains other leading cultural institutions and drop all ties to the fossil fuel industry.

A Science Museum spokesperson said: Climate change is the most urgent challenge facing humanity.

In recent weeks were pleased to have welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to our new gallery on the urgent energy transition the world needs to see, made possible by generous sponsorship from Adani Green Energy, a major renewable energy business.

During Friday evening there was a peaceful protest by a small group of activists which colleagues responded to with great professionalism.
An uninsured driver who failed to stop when his car brushed against a district judge as he tried to cross a busy road in Birmingham after Christmas celebrations, before he fell to the ground and was hit by another vehicle, has been handed a suspended sentence.

Lawyer Matthew Mawdsley, a father-of-three who lived in Manchester, had been appointed as district judge in Birmingham just weeks before he suffered fatal injuries in a collision on the A38 Aston Expressway on December 16 2022.

The 54-year-old, who had been staying at a hotel in the city for his work celebrations due to train strikes, had been trying to cross the busy carriageway at around 10pm when he collided with the rear nearside of a car being driven by Elliott Nash.

The 33-year-old was on his way home from working on a stall at a Christmas market in Cathedral Square.

After Nashs vehicle clipped Mr Mawdsley, he fell to the ground and was then hit by another car, suffering catastrophic head injuries, as well as fractures to his pelvis, ribs and hip.

Nash did not stop at the scene of the crash, but his black Ford Kuga was traced back to his address by police at around 3am the next morning and he was arrested.

Nash, from Willenhall in Walsall, pleaded guilty to failing to stop after an accident and driving without insurance at Birmingham Magistrates Court in July last year, but faced a trial in February after denying causing death by driving whilst uninsured.

A jury of six men and six women at Birmingham Crown Court failed to reach a verdict and the prosecution decided not to seek a retrial, so Nash was sentenced for the two offences he pleaded guilty to earlier.

Mr Mawdsleys family watched the hearing remotely on Friday as Nash was given a four-month jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, by Judge Sarah Buckingham.

Judge Buckingham branded Nashs decision to drive home after clipping Mr Mawdsley shameful and selfish, if not utterly cowardly and said that he likely did not stop because he knew he was not insured.

She said: The devastating consequences of Mr Mawdsleys decision to cross the A38 led him to tragically lose his life. Nothing I say today will change that.

No one who has heard the facts of the case can help but be affected and the ongoing pain and grief for his family must be hard to bear.

You should not have been driving that night as you werent insured. Unlike other drivers at the scene, you did not stop, instead you continued to drive home, said nothing to your wife about what had happened and began drinking.

As to why you didnt stop, you said on one hand you were in shock and later that you did not think it was serious enough to warrant the attention of the emergency services.

You know now, but you should have known then, that your behaviour was shameful and selfish, if not utterly cowardly.

You must have suspected that Mr Mawdsley was at least injured. The suggestion that you thought it was not serious is ridiculous.

I dont accept that you thought you were insured as you were sent multiple letters by the insurance company about it yet you still continued to drive your car for about two months.

I accept that you have been truly affected by these events, as has your family.

Nash was also banned from driving for six months, but that has already been served during an interim disqualification, was ordered to pay a 500 financial penalty and complete 15 rehabilitation activity days.

Judge Buckingham noted Nash will likely have his licence revoked by the DVLA as he has been driving for less than two years and warned him not to drive until he has taken a retest.

After the sentencing, prosecutor Phillip Bradley KC paid tribute to Mr Mawdleys wife.

He said: Her and her husbands lives were completely dovetailed. They were in a relationship for more than 20 years and they completely loved each other.

She has had to endure these proceedings, in which difficult decisions have had to be made.

The fortitude she has shown has been noticeable and I wanted to record that before we finished.
Emma Raducanu produced a brilliant comeback to stun Frances Caroline Garcia and draw Great Britain level at 1-1 in the Billie Jean King Cup qualifier in Le Portel.

Britain were staring at a 2-0 deficit and almost certain defeat when Raducanu trailed in-form world number 23 Garcia by a set and 2-0 after Katie Boulter had been thumped 6-2 6-0 by Diane Parry.

But Raducanu, back in the team for the first time in two years after injury, showed once again what makes her a hugely special talent by fighting back to claim a 3-6 6-3 6-2 victory for her first top-30 win on clay.

What. A. Performance  From a set and a break down, @EmmaRaducanu rallies back to defeat Caroline Garcia 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 and level the tie for Great Britain! #BJKCup | @the_LTA pic.twitter.com/23Vt7aKMyM  Billie Jean King Cup (@BJKCup) April 12, 2024

Speaking on the BBC, the former US Open champion said: I was completely the underdog, especially going out here in her house, on clay. I definitely turned it around. I fought really hard, I dug in.

That was a really good test for myself because I hadnt had those level matches very often. Im very pleased with my performance and Im very, very happy to bring this point home for the team and go into tomorrow 1-1.

The 21-year-old is inexperienced on clay but said again ahead of the tie that she feels it could be a good surface for her, and this was her best victory for more than a year.

The power of Garcia, who recently defeated Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka at the Miami Open, helped her edge a high-quality opening set, and the 30-year-old looked in control when she broke serve again to start the second.

Emma Raducanu, left, lost to Caroline Garcia at Wimbledon two years ago (Steven Paston/PA)

But Raducanu, who beat Garcia in Indian Wells in 2022 before losing to her at Wimbledon, met fire with fire, dialling up the aggression on her forehand in particular and turned the momentum around with a run of five games in a row.

She had to show her gritty side when Garcia threatened a comeback of her own but the Frenchwoman appeared on the verge of tears during the deciding set as Raducanu kept her foot on the gas.

The Kent player, ranked 302, saw the funny side after she celebrated a game short of victory at 5-1, but she kept her head impressively and looked delighted when a final volley earned her the spoils.

It was quite embarrassing, said Raducanu of her mistake. All I was thinking was, If I lose this right now, Im going to look like a right muppet. Im very happy that I managed to pull it through.

Stunning from @EmmaRaducanu  4 straight games for Emma who is bringing the fight in this 2nd set!#BackTheBrits  | #BJKCup pic.twitter.com/GkLxb0JW0W  LTA (@the_LTA) April 12, 2024

Earlier, Boulters inexperience on clay showed as she lost 12 games in a row against fast-rising 21-year-old Parry.

Boulter has had an exceptional season so far but this was only the 17th match of her career on clay and her first at tour level.

The British number one, ranked 28, told reporters: I have to get better on the clay. Its such a learning experience and its a really good learning experience for me.

I know my base level is there and that I can play some really good stuff. Practice has been awesome. The scoreline was tough but I felt it was a lot closer than it seemed.

Both captains must decide whether to make changes for Saturday, with Boulter scheduled to take on Garcia first up before Raducanu faces Parry.

Three wins are needed to clinch a place in Novembers Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Seville, and France would be strong favourites if it came down to a deciding doubles.
Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney has said there is an ongoing war on truth, journalists, and women.

The barrister and her husband, Hollywood actor George Clooney, spoke at the 2024 Skoll World Forum in Oxford about their work with Clooney Foundation For Justice, which they co-founded and co-chair.

Addressing the audience, Amal said: Were living through a time when we have more violent conflicts than at any time since the Second World War.

And we see women and children increasingly on the front lines, she added.

I also think theres a war on truth and truth-tellers and journalists, and we need to fight against that as well.

In too many places theres a war on women, and women are still fighting the most basic battles for their freedoms, she added.

Describing what The Clooney Foundation For Justice does, Amal said: All of our programmes in one way or another, are attempting to meet some of these challenges.

And the way we do it is by providing free legal support to victims of abuses of human rights.

So we have a lot still to do. But weve had dozens of people freed because of interventions that weve made in individual cases.

Amal and George Clooney attending the Princes Trust Awards (Ian West/PA)

Weve also spent years sometimes trying to track down war criminals and gather enough evidence against them to trigger a prosecution.

So none of this happens as quickly or as simply as it should. But I think I speak for both of us when I say, and everyone at the foundation, when I say were as determined as ever to continue to do this work.

She later warned about a loss of womens rights and said: We see reversals in things like womens rights, not just in Afghanistan, but also in places like the United States.

Her Oceans Eleven star husband interjected: Arizona, apparently.

The state has recently revived an 1864 law that criminalises abortion throughout pregnancy unless a womans life is at risk.

George and Amal (Yui Mok/PA)

The Oscar-winning actor also spoke about how it is possible to bring awareness to issues through storytelling and revealed that he was called a traitor when he decided to stand against the USs decision to wage war on Iraq in 2003.

(The film) Good Night Good Luck I wrote because I was being called a traitor to my country by my own country for being against the war in Iraq, he said.

He added: The idea was anybody who spoke against the war in 2003 was a traitor, and it wasnt really fun. They were picketing my movies and all that kind of stuff.

He told the audience that storytelling is about finding a way to relate to people things that they can understand and not overwhelm them with peas and carrots.
Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko (R) awards female astronaut Marina Vasilyevskaya the title of "Hero of Belarus" in Minsk, Belarus, April 11, 2024. Vasilyevskaya, as the first Belarusian astronaut since the country's independence, flew to the International Space Station (ISS) on March 23 aboard the Russian "Soyuz MS-25" spacecraft and returned successfully on April 6. (President of the Republic of Belarus official website/Handout via Xinhua)

MINSK, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Belarusian President Lukashenko on Thursday awarded female astronaut Marina Vasilyevskaya the title of "Hero of Belarus," BelTA news agency reported.

Vasilyevskaya, as the first Belarusian astronaut since the country's independence, flew to the International Space Station (ISS) on March 23 aboard the Russian "Soyuz MS-25" spacecraft and returned successfully on April 6.

The flight of Vasilevskaya to the ISS heralded a new milestone in Belarus' participation in space programs, Lukashenko said at the ceremony.

The title of "Hero of Belarus" is the highest honor in Belarus, which is awarded in recognition of outstanding contributions to the country and society, and meritorious services in the name of national freedom, independence and prosperity, according to the report. 
The Government needs a TikTok strategy to help combat misinformation directed at young people, MPs have said.

Members of the cross-party Culture, Media and Sport Committee said the Government needed to adapt to new apps and platforms that appeal to young people who are increasingly turning away from traditional sources of news.

The recommendation is part of a wider report published on Friday that calls for more use of trusted voices such as scientists and doctors to communicate important information and combat conspiracy theories and other misinformation spreading on social media.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is a noted enthusiast for the platform, although his spokeswoman said he does not use it on official devices (Maja Smiejkowska/PA)

Data from Ofcom said one in 10 people aged between 12 and 15 cited TikTok as their main source of news, while 71% of 16-24-year-olds use social media instead of or in addition to news websites.

A spokesperson from TikTok said they welcomed the recommendation that the Government should engage with the public on whatever social media platform they choose to use.

The committee said: The recent growth of TikTok and decisions to disengage from or potentially ban the platform demonstrates how swiftly sources of information change.

New apps and platforms rapidly become major players, shifting audience habits but also fragmenting the sources the public use for information.

The Government must have a clear strategy for communicating with young people and adapting to the development of new apps and platforms which appeal to this audience.

During the course of its inquiry, the committee heard from BBC disinformation editor Rebecca Skippage, who said broadcasters needed to be in those (social media) spaces and learn from the disinformation merchants because they are extremely good at getting peoples attention.

Martin Lewis told the committee that he started using TikTok to combat the balderdash produced by other users (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

MPs also heard from consumer champion Martin Lewis, who said he had started using TikTok in response to balderdash produced by other users of the platform.

TikTok has become a cause for concern for the Government over recent years, with security concerns leading to the app being banned from official electronic devices and the UK Parliaments network.

Some Whitehall departments continue to use TikTok, with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps being a noted enthusiast for the platform, although his spokeswoman said he does not use it on official devices.

Following the decision to ban TikTok from Government devices, Mr Shapps spokeswoman said: He is concerned that representatives of the people who deliberately choose not to engage with the public on the platforms that they actually use are unlikely to continue to represent these voters for long.

MPs said the Government should build on the example set by Sir Patrick Vallance and Sir Chris Whitty during the pandemic and let experts talk directly to the media (Hannah McKay/PA)

Along with developing a strategy for engaging young people on the platforms they use, the committee urged the Government to make more use of the vast number of experts it employs, building on the role played by Sir Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance during the Covid-19 pandemic.

They also called for the Government to be more transparent in publishing the evidence it used in making policy, especially in areas that are frequently subject to misinformation, in an effort to boost trust.

Committee chairwoman Dame Caroline Dinenage said: With the spread of misinformation on social media remaining a very real problem, its more important than ever that communities across the country have access to accurate and authoritative information that is communicated in an open and relatable way.

There are lessons to be learnt from the pandemic where scientists played a critical role in communications.

The Government is missing a trick in not giving them a larger public role in the battle to counter misinformation.

A Government spokesperson said: We use a range of channels to reach people directly on the platforms they spend the most time on.

This includes through marketing on digital and social media platforms, including those which attract younger audiences.

Once implemented the Online Safety Act will also help tackle the root cause of disinformation by requiring social media platforms to swiftly remove illegal misinformation and disinformation as soon as they become aware of it.

A spokesperson from TikTok said: Millions of people come to TikTok to be entertained and informed, so we take down harmful misinformation, provide authoritative content through initiatives like election centres and our new Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths feed and also run media literacy campaigns to help our community tell fact from fiction.

More and more politicians and public bodies are joining TikTok so that they can provide users with reliable information about their campaigns, causes and policies, so we welcome this reports recommendation that the Government should engage with the public on whatever platform they choose to use.
Hospitality sector counting on public to venture out while weekend sun lasts

Hospitality groups have urged the public to take advantage of a weekend break in the spring weather to visit local businesses which have been hampered by months of excess rainfall.

The UK saw 127% of the usual monthly rainfall in March, rising to 162% in England and 179% in southern England, according to the Met Office.

So far this month, the UK has already seen 85% of the monthly average rainfall for April, with areas such as Wales and northern England having had more than 100%.

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, voiced concern that an unseasonably damp spring was having an effect on footfall.

She told the PA news agency: The last few months of 2023 and first quarter of 2024 have been notably wetter with many pubs adversely affected by flooding and a drop in subsequent trade.

Ms McClarkin noted that events such as rugbys Six Nations and Easter had provided an uptick in sales for many pubs, but said she hoped that drier weather would encourage a wider return to venues.

She said: Like everyone across the beer and pub sector across the UK, we very much hope that the weather will be sunnier, especially ahead of a great summer of sport which should see more people enjoying a refreshing beer in the sun while cheering on their teams.

Kathryn Chalk, operational meteorologist at the Met Office, said the weekend would be very warm for the time of year, with temperatures rising to 19 or 20C, but warned that the dry spell was not going to last.

For Saturday weve still got a bit of a north south split, she told the PA news agency, adding: In the south, we could see a bit of cloud first thing, but once that lifts and breaks, we should see some sun.

For Scotland and Northern Ireland, weve got a band of heavy showers pushing through with a rumble of thunder as well.

Temperatures reached 21.5C at St Jamess Park on Friday, and are expected to near 20C in southern England on Saturday before dropping to highs of around 15C on Sunday.

It doesnt last long, as we get some showers feeding through on Monday and its going to be feeling widely colder, Ms Chalk said, adding: Its probably going to seem like the driest weekend for a while.

Ms Chalk said a cold front would be sinking southwards, leading to patchy rain and sunny spells for most of England and Wales on Sunday with more blustery conditions expected in Scotland.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said the hospitality sector was hoping the weekend forecast would encourage the public to support their local businesses.

The weather often plays an important role in peoples decision-making, she told PA, adding: When we have seen dry and sunny weekends, people are keen to make the most of the weather and head out in their droves to enjoy the best of what hospitality has to offer.

Businesses across the sector will be hoping for a strong summer to offset the impact of the ever-rising cost burden that they are facing.

Come rain or shine, Id encourage everyone to support their local hospitality businesses.

Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) advised those thinking about enjoying the sunshine at the seaside, rivers or lakes, to be wary and take note of the sewage pollution.

Josh Harris, head of communications at SAS, said: If youre hoping to take a dip in this warmer weather, stay safe and download the Safer Seas and Rivers Service app to have pollution alerts at your fingertips.

Mr Harris urged the public to report any evidence of pollution on the app to help fellow bathers identify safe areas to swim.

Water companies spill sewage come rain or shine, he said, adding: The blatant disregard for public health and our blue spaces is appalling.

The Environment Agency issued 15 flood warnings  where flooding is expected  and 84 flood alerts in England on Friday.

The agency also issued 42 red cautions for strong streams on the River Thames, advising users of all boats not to navigate.

The Met Offices shipping forecast had eight gale warnings in place on Friday afternoon, mostly covering northern sea areas such as Viking, Fair Isle, Hebrides, Bailey and Malin.
British actor Adrian Schillers cause of death was a major ischaemic stroke, his agent has said.

Schiller, known for playing rich ealdorman Aethelhelm in Netflix historical series The Last Kingdom and steward Cornelius Penge in ITV royal drama Victoria, died aged 60 at home on the morning of April 3.

Scott Marshall Partners, who represented him for more than three decades, added in a statement: While his death has left his family and friends shocked and grief-stricken, it is of some comfort to know that he will have died almost instantly and not felt any pain.

Adrian Schiller died aged 60 on April 3 (Isabel Infantes/PA)

We can also confirm that his funeral will be in May, with a larger memorial and celebration of his life to be held later in the year.

Schiller also starred in BBC series Death In Paradise and historical dramas The Musketeers on the BBC and The Devils Whore on Channel 4.

He was recently seen in an episode of BBC detective series Father Brown in January.

Also known for his theatre work, Schiller was among the cast in play The White Factory at Marylebone Theatre last year.

He also appeared in TV series including A Touch Of Frost, Raised By Wolves, Residue, The Hollow Crown, Doctor Who, New Tricks, Being Human, Silent Witness, Judge John Deed and My Family.

According to the Stroke Association, an ischaemic stroke happens when a blockage cuts off the blood supply to part of your brain, killing brain cells.

The charity adds that around 85% of strokes in the UK are ischaemic strokes, making them the most common type of stroke.

'We are deeply saddened and shocked to have lost our company member and friend, Adrian Schiller.' pic.twitter.com/1Iil9gekhX  National Theatre (@NationalTheatre) April 4, 2024

Outgoing director of the National Theatre Rufus Norris was among those paying tribute to Schiller, saying he was deeply saddened and shocked by the loss of a company member.

Adrian was a wonderful actor, and the National Theatre had the pleasure of working with him throughout the breadth of his career, he said in a statement shared on social media.

His recent performance as Henry Lehman in the Australian premiere of The Lehman Trilogy was superb and his presence within the company will be greatly missed.

Schiller took to the stage in productions of Every Good Boy Deserves Favour, The Veil, The Captain Of Kopenick, The Hour We Knew Nothing Of Each Other and Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme at the theatre.
Andrew Forrest says scam ads bearing his image that have appeared on Facebook over the past five years have cost retirees all their savings. Photograph: David Dee Delgado/Reuters

The Australian billionaire and philanthropist Andrew Forrest has accused Facebooks parent company of blatantly refusing to take action against scam ads on its platform, as a criminal case he brought against Meta in WA was discontinued.

On Friday, the commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions filed a discontinuance motion due to insufficient evidence in the criminal case brought by Forrest in the Western Australia district court over scam cryptocurrency ads bearing his likeness on Facebook.

Forrest said it was a tragedy for the innocent victims of the adverts who had lost their life savings.

It shows that Facebook is beyond the laws of Australia, that hardworking Australians are not protected, and that scams will continue to run rampant with no recourse for those who are duped by increasingly sophisticated technology on social media platforms that take no responsibility, he said.

Related: Meta to fight criminal charges brought by Andrew Twiggy Forrest over alleged cryptocurrency ad scam

Forrest said he would continue his battle and campaign for urgent law reform so action can be taken against foreign-owned social media platforms, such as Facebook.

Politicians must take responsibility on behalf of ordinary mums and dads, he said.

In a video provided to Guardian Australia before the hearing, Forrest said the scam ads bearing his image that have appeared on Facebook over the past five years had cost Australian retirees and pensioners all their savings.

Facebook do nothing about this fraudulent advertising that is so hurting the innocent, he said.

Im asking the courts of California and I will ask courts of Australia to fix this illegal or improper content rapidly, he said. We know it can be done, the law  might have to be fixed, and Facebook needs to know that theyre accountable like all the rest of us to the law.

Forrest has been fighting the latest battle over the controversial section 230 law in the US, which protects internet companies such as Meta from taking responsibility for content posted on their services. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act prevents providers of interactive computer services from being liable for defamatory or unlawful messages.

Forrest called this law well-meaning, but from the dark ages of 1996 before digital platforms existed.

[It] actually gives full immunity for content published on any of the tech companies platforms, designed, of course to help the internet. But it doesnt  it overwrites democracy all over the world, he said.

This law means that these tech companies can publish the actions of criminals on their platform because theyre getting money for it.

The district court in northern California heard a motion by Meta to dismiss Forrests case on Thursday. The courts decision was expected in the coming weeks.

Forrest launched the civil proceedings in 2022 alleging the companys failure to stop cryptocurrency-related scam ads bearing his image was negligent and a misappropriation of likeness.

In his most recent filing in March, Forrest said Meta had promised to work with him to stop the ads, but they continue to run. He said between April and November 2023 more than 1,000 ads bearing his likeness ran on Meta platforms, which he said Meta did not dispute.

The filing said Meta was scarcely bothering to defend the case, instead relying on section 230.

Forrest said in the filing that Meta sought to argue this provision in US law grants total immunity for fraudulent ads running on Meta platforms anywhere in the world, including Australia.

Section 230, however, was never intended to serve as a get out of jail free card for for-profit advertisers like Meta Ads, let alone to immunise such advertisers for conduct that occurs entirely overseas, the filing stated.

Meta argued that section 230 applies because the case was brought by Forrest in a US court seeking relief in the US.

Forrest pointed out a consistent legal argument Meta runs in cases outside the US in which they argue cases cannot be brought against it because it has no presence in those countries, including in Australia. However, Meta argued in response that Forrest had in fact brought the criminal case against Meta in Western Australia.

Meta had conceded in 2022 that the court had jurisdiction in that case.

Forrest said he was serious to do whatever small part he can to protect people from being exploited.

Related: Three richest Australians combined wealth doubles since 2020 at $1.5m an hour  Oxfam

I call on all social media companies to use your vast resources to not just make yourself bigger and richer and wider and fatter, but to protect vulnerable people from your platform being used by criminal syndicates.

A spokesperson for Meta told Guardian Australia last week scams were a challenge across the internet, not just social media.

Meta adopts a multi-faceted approach to tackle scams. We use both technology, such as new machine learning techniques, and specially trained reviewers to identify and action content and accounts that violate our policies, the spokesperson said.

In the final quarter of 2023, we removed 691m fake accounts globally. We also invest in tools on our services that allow people to report scams and to warn people if they are contacted by someone they dont know.

The US civil case is one of several to challenge section 230 in recent years. The US supreme court last month heard one of two cases focused on section 230  with Meta one of the companies challenging state laws preventing them from moderating certain content or banning users.

The supreme court upheld existing exemptions in two cases in May last year against Google and X/Twitter. There is also pressure from some in congress on both sides of the aisle to reform section 230, particularly given the protections it offers to the platforms over harm to children.
Phillip Mehrtens with his abductors who captured the pilot when he attempted to pick up construction workers in the remote region of Nduga

A New Zealand pilot taken hostage in West Papua says his life is in danger amid a wave of Indonesian air strikes on the area where he is being held.

Indonesia military have been dropping bombs in the night in this area, said Phillip Mehrtens in new footage released on Friday.

Its not so safe for me anymore, he added. Large areas have been destroyed.

Mr Mehrtens was abducted in February 2023 after landing his plane in the remote region of Nduga to pick up construction workers.

The 37-year-old married father-of-one is being held by the West Papua National Liberation Army, a rebel group who have repeatedly threatened to execute him unless the province is granted independence from Indonesia.

Indonesias army and police have been sending forces into the rugged mountainous terrain to try to rescue Mr Mehrtens, while New Zealand has been involved in diplomatic discussions with representatives from both sides.

Supporters of Mr Mehrtens had in recent weeks hoped that negotiators were close to securing his release as his captors softened their rhetoric.

But on Friday the group issued a stark warning in response to Indonesias escalating military action: We will carry this pilot around on the battlefield until he dies together with us.

The force said they had recently moved Mr Mehrtens to a village under strict guard as negotiations progressed.

We thought that Indonesia had good intentions  however Jakarta carried out brutal bombings, Sebby Samboom, the groups spokesman said.

Noticeably more solemn than in previous proof-of-life videos, a heavily bearded Mr Mehrtens could be seen with his hands behind his back while fighters beside him brandished guns, spears, bows and arrows.

He described the military action as life-threatening as he requested that foreign countries talk to Indonesia and request that they stop the air strikes.

Mr Samboom said helicopters and drones had been deployed in Kwiyawagi, an area that had previously been deemed a safe zone for civilians.

A Papuan child aged 13 was one of two civilians killed during the intensifying fighting this week, Mr Samboom said.

Photographs produced by the group appeared to show several dead and wounded Papuans. They could not be independently verified.
Airbnb says it recorded a 93% increase in bookings to the Atrani area after the release of Ripley this month. Photograph: bluejayphoto/Getty Images/iStockphoto

When Andrew Scotts eponymous character in the hit new Netflix series Ripley travels from Naples to the village of Atrani, the rickety bus has the road almost to itself; a solitary Vespa passes going the other way. When he tracks down Dickie Greenleaf at the beach, the rich American and his girlfriend are the only people sunbathing on the pristine sands.

Visitors to the Amalfi coast today will note the contrast. Unlike in 1961, the road between Positano and Salerno is now known as much for its traffic jams as for the views. Atrani may be less busy than its neighbour Amalfi, but in summer its beach is taken over by rows of umbrellas and sunbeds. A small area, perhaps a fifth of the space, is public spiaggia libera.

Related: Ripley review  Andrew Scott is absolutely spellbinding

In the village, which has one four-star hotel and a few B&Bs and holiday lets, some businesses are pleased about the Netflix exposure. Antonio Buonocore, who runs the beachside restaurant Le Arcate, said: The impeccable photography has certainly brought our little village extra publicity.

But others worry how sustainable this will be. Antonella Florio, of Maison Escher apartments, said: This coast is saturated with overtourism. If more visitors come because of the series, I sincerely hope they come in low season.

Luisa Criscolo, property manager at Chiaras House, agreed: If tourism does grow, the risk is that its not managed intelligently. Our village cant cope with huge numbers of tourists. Cars, buses and motorbikes leave the traffic paralysed. The authorities need to keep a decent amount of places open longer so some visits can be channelled to other times of year, and must also encourage use of waterborne transport, and offer more frequent services on smaller buses.

In Patricia Highsmiths 1955 book The Talented Mr Ripley, Greenleaf is living in fictional Mongibello. The TV crew switched to Atrani after searching the coast for a location to suit their black-and-white period style (inspired by the 2018 illustrated book Neorealismo: The New Image in Italy 1932-1960). The series production designer, David Gropman, told Netflix he loved Atranis incredible geography  the relationship of the main square to the beach, all of those unbelievable paths, that maze of stairs and corridors. These all help make early episodes visually arresting. Su, su, su [up, up, up], says post office operator Matteo, directing Tom Ripley up to Greenleafs house.

That opulent villa, however, is not actually in Atrani, but on the nearby island of Capri. Villa Torricella was built in 1902 in eclectic style  turrets, Moorish colonnades, pointed arches and twisted columns  for an earlier pair of American socialites, Kate Perry and Saidee Wolcott, who hid their gay relationship by portraying themselves as sisters.

The villa, whose onion-domed tower is easily spotted from the ferry, is privately owned, but a one-bedroom apartment with panoramic terrace and the gorgeous tiled floors Johnny Flynn as Dickie is seen pacing around on, is for rent on Airbnb from 189 a night. There is still some summer availability, and plenty in autumn, though this may soon change.

Related: Tom Ripley is a psychopath made for social media | Peter Bradshaw

After Ripley was released, Airbnb said it had seen a 93% increase in bookings to the Atrani area, which includes Ravello, a larger town a few miles north-east.

Canny beachgoers can avoid the crowds, though. The London-based musician Adam McCulloch visited last October, taking a bus to Positano  the beach was rammed  then a ferry to Amalfi. We left the crowds behind and walked to Atrani over hills via Torre dello Ziro. Up there, you see no one. After steep steps down to the village, we had a swim, and a drink at Bar Nettuno, then walked the coast road back to Amalfi.

The makers of Ripley closed the centre of Atrani for a month in October 2021 to take it back to the early 60s, paying local businesses for the disruption. (A year later the cameras descended again for filming of The Equalizer 3, also starring Dakota Fanning, who plays Dickies girlfriend, Marge.)

Later in the Netflix series, Ripleys misdeeds take him to Naples, Rome, Palermo and Venice. In each city, writer-director Steven Zaillian uses paintings by Caravaggio to mirror the 20th-century con artists descent into violence, and perhaps his repressed sexuality.

But Rome and Venice are no strangers to film crews or mass tourism. Atrani, permanent population of about 800, is braced for change.
Lady Libertine's the fields fizz. Photograph: Rob Lawson/The Guardian. Drink styling: Janek Garcia.

The fields fizz

This lower-than-usual ABV cocktail features a delicious base of infused Italian vermouth and cremant, a French sparkling wine made in the traditional method, but just not from the region of Champagne.

Serves 1

For the infusion (makes 7 servings)

375ml white vermouth  we use Cocchi Americano

180g frozen strawberries

For the drink

50ml strawberry-infused vermouth (see above and method)

15ml fresh lime juice

10ml 1:1 sugar syrup

50ml cremant, to top

1 mint leaf, to garnish

Make the infusion in advance. Put the vermouth and frozen strawberries in a clean jar, seal and leave to get to know each other for at least 12 hours. Strain the mix (save the solids to make a simple strawberry syrup for another use, such as to drizzle over ice-cream or yoghurt), return the liquid to the jar, seal and store in the fridge, where it will now keep for at least a month. (The infused vermouth is also delicious mixed with just soda or tonic water.)

To make the drink, pour the infused vermouth, lime juice and sugar syrup into a shaker, add a big handful of ice and shake hard for 15-20 seconds. Fine strain into a coupette, top with the cremant and garnish with a mint leaf.
The popular Sleeping Beauty Castle attraction in Disneyland, California - AaronP/Bauer-Griffin

Disneyland has announced it is overhauling its rules because visitors are abusing the system by pretending to be disabled in order to skip lengthy queues.

The theme parks Disability Access Service (DAS), which handles the accessibility needs of guests, is rolling out new procedures. These will require disabled guests to go through a more rigorous registration process and will limit which disabilities qualify for quicker access to rides.

In the past five years, the number of Disneyland-goers who have requested help from DAS has tripled, the park said.

Len Testa, the president of the trip planning website Touring Plans and co-author of the Unofficial Guides to Walt Disney World and Disneyland, told The Washington Post: The system has always had some level of questionable use, if not abuse.

The system currently allows guests to reserve a time to arrive at a ride and to skip the queue when they get there, avoiding waits that can be more than an hour.

Until now, the programme granted access to those with a breadth of needs and was not explicit in its wording. Disney said it was intended for guests who have difficulty tolerating extended waits in a conventional queue environment due to a disability.

Crowds attend Disneyland for the opening of a new attraction in 2020 - Jeff Gritchen/Getty Images

But the new guidelines, posted this week, say that the disability access program is intended to accommodate a small percentage of guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period or time.

Mr Testa said that Disney knew that the system was under more stress than it could handle.

He referenced an incident where he overheard a man recommend DAS to a friend, reassuring him that Disney did not ask guests requesting the service too many questions. This is why we dont have nice things, Mr Testa said.

Disney has warned that there will be consequences for those caught misusing the DAS programme.

The guest will be permanently barred from entering Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and any previously purchased annual passes, magic key passes, tickets and other park products and services will be forfeited and not refunded, its website said.

California and Florida

Disneys California and Florida parks are both tweaking their disability access programmes.

The benefits of DAS will be limited to a guests immediate family, or a group of no more than four unrelated people, according to Disneys website. Previously, up to six guests, including the person with the disability, were allowed to use one pass to move to the front of the queue for rides.

Park officials will now require guests to attend a virtual video meeting with Inspire Health Alliance experts ahead of their trip in order to enrol in the programme.

Health professionals will then evaluate whether the guest meets the requirements for a DAS pass.

The rules will be introduced on May 20 at Walt Disney World in Florida and on June 18 at Disneyland in California.

Disney said that visitors should check their website to explore the suite of services for guests with disabilities that match their needs.

Easy access to toilets

The parks will also introduce options for those who might struggle with staying in lines, such as a return to queue process for those who need quick and easy access to toilet facilities.

More Disney staff members will be on hand to guide guests in need of assistance. They are likely to include sign language interpreters, as well as handheld devices that provide visual descriptions for guests and braille guidebooks and maps.

Unlike other theme parks in the US, including Six Flags, disabled visitors will not need documentation to verify their status, but will be assessed by health professionals from Inspire Health Alliance.
Teiffyon Parry is chief strategy officer at independent adtech giant Equativ, which has over 550 staff in 16 offices across 12 countries. Parry first joined Equativ as executive vice president of global demand in 2021 and has since used his insight to steer development of Equativs media buying tools.

I'll admit to being pretty terrified when I was invited into a propeller plane by my boss, Julia Bowen, who was teaching herself aerobatics over the Blue Mountains in Sydney.

I joined Julia's team at Cable & Wireless Optus as an analyst in 2000. She was general director of programmes, and I became her chief of staff almost immediately.

She is an immensely impressive person. She had a military background and was also one of the first female rugby union referees in the world. Its fair to say that Julia liked new challenges and she always encouraged her team not to be fearful of what they hadn't done before and to be brave in everything they did.

Read More: My first boss: Karren Brady, West Ham United vice-chair

Up in the skies, Julia talked me through all the tasks she was going to do before and during her manoeuvres. We were soon climbing and climbing until the engine cut out, the plane fell with the nose tipped down and it began spinning round. But Julias softly-spoken communication was very reassuring and I knew she was in control every step of the way.

As we spiralled and looped it was very peaceful. Julia talked herself through the restart mechanisms. The propeller ticked over but cut out and so we went back into the spin and through the same steps. The engine then failed to kick back a second time before starting at the third time of asking.

Julia Bowen was Teiffyon Parry's influential boss at Cable & Wirelss Optus

I was still relatively calm given we had gone through two false engine starts. It was only when we landed that Julia told me we had dropped below the altitude for a safe return. Had the engine not started a third time that may have been it, she said.

Yet, the whole experience made me respect her even more with her cool, calm and collected nature under pressure.

Back on the ground, she was always focused in what she did, always with a smile and strong nature.

She was exceptional at aligning people around a strategic vision, too. She would approach the programmes she oversaw from the broader business perspective, not the programme perspective.

Read More: 'I was 21 - I thought I knew everything as a CEO'

Julia would seek out definitions of success that were aligned with the key stakeholders which would measure the programme. She would forge a creative cohesive view on what needed to be delivered and break them down into a series of work streams, rather than taking a bottoms up, product approach. That was insightful and influenced me a great deal through my career.

She understood the strengths and weaknesses of her peers but her most impressive trait was being able to delegate comfortably, and build on this through empowering the people below her.

Teiffyon Parry spearheads Equativs ongoing innovation and expansion in the adtech world. Photo: Equativ

Julia believed in meritocracy and there was always strong, open communication in the team. I never felt she needed to be the most dominant in the room. Nobody felt superior to the other and she fostered a were in this together spirit. If we failed, we failed fast and moved on.

She adhered to the Japanese mantra of genchi genbutsu which meant 'going to the problem'. She urged us not to hear issues second hand or to understand something without seeing it for ourselves. She would always want to decorate stats with the colour behind a business rationale, purpose or the client needs.

I learned all this in a year's secondment at Cable & Wireless before returning to the UK to work for Accenture. Fast forward to September 2023, I was made CSO at Equativ, where we offer a global marketplace for programmatic advertising.

We help the largest brands and agencies on the buy side, with the largest digital broadcasters, publishers or app owners in the world to manage ad inventory and ultimately help advertisers to maximise their investment in media.

Now in her sixties, Julia Bowen is also an accomplished golfer, having played in the 2023 Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed in Sweden. (Matthew Lewis via Getty Images)

Where we are leading the market is innovating in the emerging high-impact channels like connected TV (CTV), retail media and gaming and bringing buyers and sellers as close together as possible. We do that in a very direct and transparent and equitable model, which is driving the growth of Equativ.

The fight for eyeballs has become increasingly competitive in todays marketplace. There has been a much more concerted effort in the last 18 months to remember that the client and consumer are at the heart of what we do.

Its getting back to nuanced support in how we value that moment in time where someone is on a media site and making the most of it in a way that isn't intrusive to the consumer and one thats valuable to the advertiser. That seems to have had a renaissance after the years of focusing on scale at all costs.

Read More: How my British diplomat boss taught me value of kindness

If a publisher holds true to their core DNA  a consumer coming back to their media on a regular basis  if they retain that focus, they will find there are more platforms of choice, which companies like Equativ can help them access to monetise their audience in the right way. One bringing relevant ads, not leaking data or impacting user experience.

It was simply being exposed at an early age to the different levels of management on large projects, coupled with Julias strength of team building and leadership, that helped me move forward in my career and to where I am today.

Watch: Elon Musk on micromanaging: Attention to detail is essential

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My goal is to take the stigma away: Patric Gagne, author of Sociopath: A Memoir, has spent most of her life fighting terrible urges. Photograph: Zack Wittman/The Guardian

Top of the weekend to you all. Are you venturing out to blow $5.50 on your morning caffeine hit? Or have you taken the advice of our instant coffee taste test so you can put the money you save into a house deposit?

Weve had homes on the brain this week. From small homes (cool) to Disney homes (wild) to cashing out your super to buy a home (insane), lets call this the housing edition of Five Great Reads and get into it.

1. Michael Palin on the loss of his wife of 57 years

But first, one of the dwindling number of Monty Python alumni who have not been cancelled. Michael Palin has for the past 35 years been better known for his travel documentaries, for which he credits his late wife, Helen, who gently steered him towards making them.

She died 10 months ago, just before Palin packed his suitcases to shoot a new three-part series in Nigeria. I was quite concerned about whether I could physically and mentally deal with it, he confesses. Actually, it regenerated me in a way.

Heartbreaking quote of the week: Ive been working quite hard since she died, and thats been a distraction. But every now and then, the house seems empty and you feel youll never have a friend as close as that; youll never have someone who knows as much about you as Helen did about me.

How long will it take to read: Six minutes.

2. How to live better in small homes

Tiny homes? Appealing in theory, though once you throw two turntables and a record collection in, there isnt much room for anything useful.

Small homes? Now were talking. Maddie Thomas interviewed five design experts, from Paris to Tokyo to Melbourne, to find out how to make the most of limited space.

Pro tip: Michael Chen, the genius behind the swivel TV set-up pictured above, extols the value of leaving some space empty to provide visual and spatial relief.

How long will it take to read: Five minutes.

3. Australias housing policy bin fire

Home ownership is an Australian obsession and everyone wants a piece of the action. But housing policy is so dire, Peter Lewis reckons, that any new idea sounds enticing.

Exhibit A: the Coalitions super-for-housing plan, which would let you give your retirement savings to the sellers running the market while likely juicing up prices even more.

But dont take my word for it  heres Lewis steaming in off the long run-up.

***

Housing in Australia is a bin fire stoked by shysters pumping up their assets for short-term advantage to the detriment of those they claim to serve. And thats just the policy auction.  And thats just his opening line.

How long will it take to read: Two minutes.

Further reading: First Dog on the Moon mulls over some more leftfield solutions.

4. Life in a Disney town

Maybe living in the Disney IRL Universe is the answer? With homes from US$1m, the masterplanned Cotino community in the Palm Springs desert is borderline affordable from an Australian capital city perspective.

The jury is out on whether the House of Mouses latest revenue-raising venture will be the coolest thing out of Palm Springs since Kyuss or a white elephant. But as Oliver Wainwright writes, its just the latest piece of cross-promotion from a brand that set that particular template with Disneyland itself.

What are utilidors? The underground service corridors  which went on to influence todays smart cities  connecting the different themed lands in Floridas Disney World were introduced after Walt was bothered by the sight of a cowboy walking through Tomorrowland on his way to Frontierland.

How long will it take to read: Four minutes.

Further reading: Speaking of planned cities, Egypts looks Dubai-esque and Saudi Arabias was clearly too ambitious for its own good.

5. Meet the sociopath who learned to behave

As a child, Patric Gagne stabbed another girl in the head with a pencil. Why? I just remember feeling this pressure building, Gagne recalls, and this girl just happened to be standing next to me when the dam burst.

Gagne is no Patrick Bateman type. Warm and funny, articulate and charming is Emine Saners take when they catch up to discuss Gagnes memoir (creatively titled Sociopath: A Memoir), in which the self-confessed liar and once compulsive thief confesses all  except the details her husband deemed too extreme to print.

Setting boundaries: Like the fictional serial killer Dexter, Gagne developed a code to help manage her behaviour. Unlike Dexter, her first rule was no hurting anybody.

How long will it take to read: Five minutes.

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This photo taken on April 13, 2024 shows Atar pots in Yangon, Myanmar. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua)

YANGON, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The Thingyan festival, also known as the water festival, is a popular celebration in Myanmar, marking the Myanmar New Year and lasting 4 to 5 days starting on April 13.

As the festival draws near, preparations for Atar pots begin. These Atar pots are filled with water and sprigs of seven kinds of flora, including coconut palm leaves, Gantgaw and Eugenia, representing seven days of the week.

"Some individuals buy pre-made sprigs of flora from markets, while others prefer crafting their own. For me, I prefer picking the flowers myself," Khin Khin Lay, 54, told Xinhua on Friday.

Placing the Atar pot in front of the house during the Thingyan period is a symbolic gesture of welcoming Tha Kyar Min, the King of the Celestials, she added.

"We place Atar pot in front of my house every year to welcome Thingyan because it's a tradition in Myanmar. Wherever I go, I will continue this tradition as a Myanmar citizen," 41-year-old La Pyae, who lives in Thailand, told Xinhua.

"In the past, when I was in Myanmar, I used to buy pre-made sprigs of flora, known as Atar flowers, from the markets. However, now that I am in Thailand, I will pick the flowers myself to put in the pot," she said.

"During the Thingyan period, many people in Myanmar donate, observe the sabbath, have charity feasts, and do good deeds. Preparing Atar pot before Thingyan is part of these traditions. Placing Atar pots in front of our homes is believed to keep us safe and bring prosperity," La Pyae said.

"The practice of putting Atar pots in front of houses serves as a way of preserving our tradition. It's important for older generations to pass this tradition down to the younger ones. They say that following this tradition brings good luck and keeps us safe," she added. 

This photo taken on April 13, 2024 shows Atar pots in Yangon, Myanmar. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua)
The rubble of a building annexed to the Iranian embassy a day after an airstrike in Damascus, Syria. Photograph: Louai Beshara/AFP/Getty Images

Joe Biden has said he expects an Iranian attack on Israel sooner rather than later and issued a last-ditch message to Tehran: Dont.

We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed, Biden told reporters on Friday.

Earlier the White House national security spokesperson John Kirby warned that the threat of a significant Iranian attack on Israel remains viable despite Washington-led efforts, including calls to Tehran from the UK and Germany, to deter a serious escalation in the conflict in the Middle East.

The White House comments came as several countries, including India, France, Poland and Russia, warned their citizens against travel to the region and Israels defence minister, Yoav Gallant, said his country was prepared to defend [itself] on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners.

Later CBS, quoting two unnamed US officials, reported that a substantial missile and drone attack could be launched as early as Friday evening, as a number of countries urgently warned their nationals of the risk of escalating violence in the region, and Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, convened a security assessment.

Appearing to underline that report, Javad Karimi-Ghodousi, a member of the Iranian parliaments national security and foreign policy commission, said: After punishing the Zionist regime in the coming hours, this villain will understand that henceforth, wherever in the world it attempts to assassinate figures of the resistance front, it will again be punished with Iranian missiles.

German airline Lufthansa said on Friday its planes would no longer use Iranian airspace and extended its suspension of flights to and from Tehran until Thursday.

Qantas has paused its non-stop flights from Perth to London because the 17-and-a-half-hour flight is possible only by using Iranian airspace.

Iran has threatened reprisals against Israel for a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria on 1 April, in which seven members of the Revolutionary Guards including two generals were killed, sparking fears that an already volatile climate in the Middle East could quickly spiral further.

Tehrans foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said on Thursday that Iran felt it had no choice but to respond to the deadly attack on its diplomatic mission after the UN security council failed to take action.

Speaking to reporters, Kirby said the prospect of an Iranian attack on Israel was still a viable threat despite concerted efforts by Israel and the US in recent days to deter it.

Related: US seeking to deter Iran from strike on Israel, officials say

We are in constant communication with our Israeli counterparts about making sure that they can defend themselves against those kinds of attacks, Kirby said. He confirmed that the head of US Central Command, Gen Erik Kurilla, was in Israel talking with defence officials about how Israel could be best prepared.

Israel has said it is strengthening air defences and has paused leave for combat units.

On Friday, France ordered the evacuation of diplomats families and warned nationals in several other countries, including Israel and Lebanon, and alerts were issued by Canada and Australia. The US also restricted travel within Israel for US diplomats and their families.

In its strong warning on Friday, the French foreign ministry advised citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories and said French civil servants were banned from conducting any missions there.

The advisories followed a number of media reports that Israel was preparing for the prospect of an attack from Iran, possibly as soon as this weekend.

A US official told the Wall Street Journal that American intelligence reports indicated an Iranian retaliatory strike possibly on Israeli soil as opposed to against Israeli interests elsewhere, adding that the strike could come within 24 to 48 hours.

The same report, however, also reported an individual briefed by the Iranian leadership as saying no final decision had been taken by Tehran.

The newspaper reported US officials as saying that the US Navy had repositioned two destroyers in the region in order to protect US and Israeli forces.

While analysts had initially speculated that Iran may not rush into a response, concern has grown in the last two days over the potential for direct conflict between Iran and Israel after years of proxy conflict between the two enemies.

More recently experts have suggested that Iran now feels it is required to act militarily to restore its balance of deterrence with Israel.

On Wednesday, Joe Biden said Iran was threatening a significant attack against Israel and that Washington would do all it could to protect Israels security.

The US presidents comments in turn followed a televised speech by Irans leader saying the attack in Damascus was equivalent to an attack on Iran itself. When they attacked our consulate area, it was like they attacked our territory, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said. The evil regime must be punished, and it will be punished.

The Israeli military said it was fully prepared for any strike. Israel was on alert and highly prepared for various scenarios, and we are constantly assessing the situation, the Israel Defense Forces spokesperson, R Adm Daniel Hagari, said at a press conference. We are ready for attack and defence using a variety of capabilities that the IDF has, and also ready with our strategic partners.

According to reports in the Israeli media, the IDF believes that Iran or one of its proxies are most likely to attempt to strike a military target rather than civilian centres, although some sites such as the Kirya, Israels defence headquarters in Tel Aviv, are located in city centres next to shopping malls, offices and restaurants.

Concern over a significant escalation in the Middle East conflict, which has already drawn in Hezbollah in Lebanon, pro-Iranian groups in Iraq and Yemens Houthis, came as Israeli forces continued to fight Palestinian militants in the north and centre of the Gaza Strip.

Residents of al-Nusseirat refugee camp in central Gaza said dozens were dead or wounded after Israeli bombardment from air, land and sea that had followed a surprise ground assault on Thursday, and that houses and two mosques had been destroyed.
German police secured Cologne cathedral last December after terror plot - Thilo Schmuelgen/Reuters

German police have detained two teenage boys and two teenage girls on suspicion of planning an Islamic State-style knife and firebomb attack on churches.

Three of the four suspects, all teenagers aged 15 to 16, were arrested in North Rhine-Westphalia and are strongly suspected of planning an Islamist-motivated terror attack and having committed to carrying it out according to prosecutors in Dusseldorf.

The fourth suspect, aged 16, was arrested in Stuttgart on suspicion that he was preparing a serious crime endangering the state, prosecutors there said.

Bild, the German tabloid, said the group had been planning to attack Christians in churches as well as police officers, adding that they were supporters of Islamic State.

They are alleged to have discussed an attack that would have involved knives, Molotov cocktails and potentially guns. The assault was in an early stage of planning, according to German media reports, which suggested the potential targets were in Dusseldorf, Dortmund and Cologne.

It was not immediately clear whether the alleged plot had any links with Isis-K, an offshoot of IS that was behind the terrorist attack on a concert hall in Moscow in March.

Germany has previously suffered IS-inspired attacks, including a deadly truck rampage through a Berlin Christmas market in December 2016 - Rainer Jensen/EPA

In January, German police arrested three people who were planning an attack on Cologne cathedral on New Years Eve. Bild reported that those suspects were Tajik citizens acting for Isis-K.

Referring to the most recent arrests, a security source told Bild: This case exemplifies the great danger of how quickly young people can be radicalised online and then plan attacks, even those that were not previously on the radar of the security authorities.

Germany has been on high alert for Islamist or other terrorist attacks since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza after the Oct 7 Hamas attacks.

It has previously suffered IS-inspired attacks, such as a deadly truck rampage through a Berlin Christmas market in December 2016, in which 12 people were killed.
Hezbollah fired a barrage of 40 rockets from southern Lebanon at Israel, as the country braced for a major attack by Iran.

Some experts suggested the attack, which did not cause any injuries, was an attempt to deplete Israels supply of surface-to-air missiles before Tehran launches a larger strike in retaliation for last weeks air strike on its consulate in Damascus.

Videos online showed Israels Iron Dome defences kicking into action in the night skies above residents in northern Galilee.

An Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesman said it had intercepted some of the Katyusha missiles and that no injuries had been reported.

The Lebanese-based Iranian proxy group claimed it was targeting Israeli artillery positions.

Earlier today, air defences intercepted two Hezbollah bomb drones while several shells were fired from Lebanon without causing any casualties, according to the IDF.

IDF forces opened fire to eliminate the threat in several areas of southern Lebanon, he added.

Hezbollah has exchanged near-daily cross-border fire with Israel since its ally Hamas, the Palestinian group, massacred hundreds of Israeli civilians in the Oct 7 attack.

10:00 PM BST

Thats all for now

Thanks for following our live Middle East coverage, as Hezbollah launched a missile barrage against Israel ahead of an expected strike by Iran. This live blog is now closed.

09:54 PM BST

Flights to Iran cancelled ahead of expected strike

The last airline in western Europe flying to Tehran has cancelled its flights ahead of an expected Iranian strike on Israel.

Australian Airlines said it was suspending all flights from Vienna to Tehran until April 18, adding in a statement: The safety of our passengers and crews have highest priority.

09:35 PM BST

US send military assets to Israel to protect from Iranian strike

The US is deploying extra military assets near Israel to protect it from a strike by Iran that could come as soon as this weekend.

Officials said they had implemented force posture changes and deployed additional assets to the region in light of threats by Tehran to strike Israeli territory in retaliation for an air strike on its consulate in Damascus last week.

On Friday, the Pentagon was said to have been expecting an attack in the next 48 hours, which raised the prospect of a direct conflict between Iran and Israel for the first time.

President Joe Biden on Friday said he expected Iran to attack Israel sooner, rather than later and warned Tehran not to proceed.

Read the full story here from Tony Diver and Nataliya Vasilyeva.

09:11 PM BST

Pictured: Israels Iron Dome intercepts Hezbollah missiles

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Lebanon towards Israel over the Israeli Lebanese border - REUTERS/Ayal Margolin

08:47 PM BST

Israeli army kills Hamas leaders son in West Bank raid

Israeli forces shot dead the son of a Hamas West Bank leader in an early-morning raid on Friday, according to reports.

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was killed while travelling in his car in the West Bank city of Tubas where he is based, local media said.

Israeli forces shot dead the son of a Hamas West Bank leader in an early-morning raid on Friday, according to reports.

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was killed while travelling in his car in the West Bank city of Tubas where he is based, local media said.

Read the full story from Cameron Henderson here.

08:29 PM BST

Biden expects Iran attack sooner rather than later

Joe Biden has suggested he expects an imminent Iranian strike on Israel. I dont want to get into secure information but my expectation is sooner than later, he told reporters.

08:16 PM BST

Biden: Iran will not succeed

Joe Biden, the US President, urged Iran not to launch an attack on Israel when speaking to reporters this evening. He added: We are devoted to the defence of Israel, we will support Israel, we will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.

07:59 PM BST

Iron Dome is not hermetic, IDF admits

Israel has admitted that its Iron Dome defence system is not hermetic as anticipation builds for a potential air strike by Iran.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a spokesman for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), urged the public to remain vigilant while insisting that it was ready for attack.

If there are any changes, we will update [the public] immediately, Mr Hagari said, adding that Israels air defences were among the best in the world, but not hermetic.

We have been at war for the past six months, and we have dealt with all the existing threats. Our defense is ready, and knows how to handle each threat individually., he said,

We are also ready for attack, with a variety of capabilities, to protect the citizens of Israel.

07:26 PM BST

Hezbollah takes credit for missile strike on Israel

Hezollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, has taken credit for firing dozens of Katyusha rockets at Israel on Friday evening.

It claimed to be targeting enemy artillery positions in response to the enemys attacks on... southern villages and civilian homes. The attack is not believed to have caused any casualties.

07:23 PM BST

Iranian retaliation will be calibrated to avoid escalation

Iran has signalled that it will retaliate against a suspected Israeli air strike in a calibrated manner to to prevent a regional war breaking out, the Financial Times reports.

Tehran is unlikely to target Israeli diplomatic facilities in the region, an official briefed on key diplomatic talks said.

06:46 PM BST

Rockets, drones and shells fired from Lebanon

Israel intecepted some of the 40 missiles that were recently fired at its territory from Lebanon, as speculation grows about an Iranian attack.

An Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesman confirmed that a number of rockets, shells and drones had been fired from its northern neighbour this evening, where Hezbollah -- an Iranian proxy group -- is based.

He said: The launching of about 40 rocket shells from Lebanese territory towards Israel was monitored, some of which were intercepted while the rest fell in open areas without causing any casualties.

Earlier this evening, air defenses intercepted two Hezbollah bomb drones that infiltrated from the direction of Lebanon, where warnings were activated for fear of interception fragments falling.

In addition, several shells were monitored from Lebanon towards the area of the town of Ramot Naftali, without causing any casualties.

IDF forces opened fire to eliminate the threat in several areas of southern Lebanon.

06:37 PM BST

US moving additional assets to Middle East

US defence officials have said they are moving additional assets to the Middle East to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces.

It has previously been reported that the USS Dwight Eisenhower aircraft carrier had headed north through the Red Sea towards Israel.

06:27 PM BST

Iron Dome intercepts missile barrage as Israel braces for Iran attack

Israel has intercepted a missile barrage of around 50 rockets that were fired from Lebanon as it braces for an attack from Iran.

Footage published on social media shows the rockets exploding in mid-air as they are caught by Israels Iron Dome defence system.

Commentators suggested the strike could be an attempt to wear down Israels air defences before launching a larger attack using more advanced missiles.

Meanwhile more than 50 rockets were fired from southern Lebanon towards Israel. pic.twitter.com/yxFVzBkCU0  Clash Report (@clashreport) April 12, 2024

06:21 PM BST

Reports: US sends aircraft carrier to Israel

The US has reportedly sent the USS Dwight Eisenhower aircraft carrier towards Israel, seemingly in an attempt to deter Iran from launching an attack.

The warship would be able to intercept missiles and drones fired from Iran, Israeli media reports.

06:13 PM BST

Russia tests intercontinential ballistic missile

Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from a test site in its southern Astrakhan Region.

Their detection over various regions of Iran prompted speculation on social media that Iran had launched a strike on Israel, until Moscow confirmed it was responsible.

The combat crew of the Strategic Missile Forces successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile of a mobile ground-based missile system, Russias defence ministry said.

The results obtained confirm the high reliability of Russian missiles for ensuring strategic security of the Russian Federation. The launch objectives were completed in full.

06:07 PM BST

Gallant meets with US General to discuss potential attack

Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defence minister, met with US Central Command Commander Gen. Erik Kurilla today to discuss preparations for a potential Iranian strike on Israel.

The two men spoke about readiness for an Iranian attack against the State of Israel, which may lead to regional escalation, according to a statement from Gallants office.

Following the meeting, Gallant said: Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true -- they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder.

06:00 PM BST

Rocket sirens sound near Lebanon border

Numerous rocket sirens are sounding in northern Israeli towns near the Lebanon border, The Times of Israel reports.

05:23 PM BST

Iran threat to Israel is viable and serious: White House

A reportedly imminent attack by Iran on Israel is a real and viable threat, the White House said on Friday.

I cant speak to what the intelligence picture tells us in terms of the size, scale, scope of what that attack might look like, except to say that were taking this seriously, said National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.

We still deem the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable.

When pressed by reporters on why the US had not released more detailed intelligence as it did in the run up to Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, he said the White House was comfortable with the messaging it had put out but that it would not sit back.

And thats why we are working so intensively to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself. And we have had conversations with others in the region too. Nobodys sitting back and resting easy on this.

Its a serious threat. Were taking it seriously and we believe that its best for those conversations to happen away from the public eye so that we can make sure Israel is as prepared as possible.

05:14 PM BST

Iran warned the US to stay out of the conflict or risk being attacked: report

Iran reportedly sent a message to the Biden administration through several Arab countries earlier this week saying that if the US got involved in the fighting between Israel and Iran, American forces in the region would be attacked.

Three American officials told Axios, a US news website, that the Iranians believe Washington is responsible for the Israeli attack that killed a Iranian general in Damascus, despite US denials.

The Iranian message was we will attack the forces that attack us, so dont f*** with us and we wont f*** with you, one US official is quoted as saying.

They reportedly threatened to attack US bases in the region if Washington did not stay out of the conflict.

04:59 PM BST

German government sued over sending weapons to Israel

Human rights lawyers have filed a lawsuit against a German government decision to approve the export of 3,000 anti-tank weapons to Israel, the second case of its kind this month filed over Berlins support of Israel in its war in Gaza.

Last week, Berlin lawyers said they had filed an urgent appeal to halt exports of war weapons to Israel, citing reasons to believe they were being used in ways that could violate international humanitarian law in the Gaza Strip.

The latest case, brought by five Palestinians from Gaza, was supported by lawyers from the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR) in Berlin and Palestinian human rights organisations, ECCHR said in a statement.

04:45 PM BST

US shoulder to shoulder with Israel, says Gallant

The US stands shoulder to shoulder with Israel in face of the threat from Iran, Israels defence minister Yoav Gallant said after talks with the US Central Command chief in Jerusalem.

Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true - they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties, Mr Gallant said after he and Michael Kurilla discussed Irans threats of retaliation for a deadly air strike on its consulate in Syria.

We stand shoulder to shoulder, Mr Gallant said, adding: We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond.

04:32 PM BST

Iran is going to attack, says US senator

US Senator Marco Rubio has said that Iran is going to attack Israel bar a last-minute development.

The Republican member of the Senate Intelligence Committee said that the response and risk of escalation will depend on what and how they attack.

Israel has approved a plan to attack Iran if it is fired upon directly from the Islamic Republic.

04:15 PM BST

Tell us about hostages if you want to protect your families, IDF warns civilians

The IDF has dropped leaflets in Rafah urging Palestinians to help locate Israeli hostages held by Hamas if you want to protect your families.

If you want to protect your families and guarantee your future, do not hesitate to provide us with information about the hostages or those holding them, the flyers, which included the names and photos of 35 hostages, read.

The leaflets, dropped on the Tel Sultan neighbourhood of Gazas southernmost city, included a phone number hotline for providing tip-offs.

The request for information comes after Israel announced earlier this week that it was withdrawing its troops from the rest of the Strip in preparation for invading Rafah.

Plans to launch an offensive in the region, where more than 1.5 million Palestinians are currently seeking refuge, have been widely condemned by Western leaders and the UN.

04:10 PM BST

Iran could attack today with 100 drones and dozens of missiles

Iran could launch a major attack on Israeli soil using more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles within hours, two US officials have warned.

Given its magnitude, the alleged strike on military targets would be challenging for Israel to defend itself against, the officials told CBS News, adding that it could take place today.

The officials said they hoped Iran would opt for a smaller-scale strike.

Intelligence sources previously suggested Iran would calibrate its retaliation to avoid provoking a US response, Politico reported.

Israel is preparing itself for a strike on either the south or the north of the country, a separate official told the Wall Street Journal, as both the US and France issued warnings to citizens and diplomats to avoid travelling in the region.

The country has been on a state of high alert ever since it allegedly bombed Irans Damascus embassy, killing seven Iranian officials including senior commander Mohammed Reza Zahedi.

04:00 PM BST

Pictured: Palestinians attend funeral of Hamas militant

An armed man participates in the funeral of Mohammad Rasol Daraghmah, a militant who was killed by Israeli forces in Tubas - Raneen Sawafta/Reuters

03:56 PM BST

India advises citizens against travelling to Israel or Iran

India has advised its citizens against travelling to either Iran or Israel until further notice due to the prevailing situation in the region, the Foreign Ministry said.

All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves, the ministry posted on Twitter.

It added that Indians in the two countries should observe the utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum.

03:28 PM BST

Atrocious dilemma if Palestinians flee to Egypt, warns UN refugee chief

The UN refugee chief has said we must fervently do everything to avoid the prospect of Palestinians flowing into Egypt from Rafah as it would make resolving the conflict impossible.

Another refugee crisis from Gaza into Egypt, I can assure you  would make the resolution of the Palestinian refugee question as a consequence of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict impossible, Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said in Geneva.

His comments come amid threats from Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, that no force in the world will stop Israels invasion of Gazas southernmost city, where 1.4 million Palestinians are currently sheltering.

Mr Grandi conceded that crossing the border into Egypt may be the only option for safety available for many Palestinians should Israel invade, adding: We must not arrive at that atrocious dilemma, which would be really almost the end of the road for what is really important here: ultimate peace.

03:20 PM BST

Journalist loses foot in Israeli refugee camp strike

A journalist had his foot amputated after being wounded in an Israeli strike on the Nuseriat refugee camp in central Gaza.

Sami Shehadeh, a TRT reporter, was one of several journalist, and more than 70 people in total, injured during Israeli raids in the area which involved shelling, ground troops and drone strikes, Al Jazeera reported.

During a raid on a school nearby, Israeli troops uncovered several heavy live explosives hidden in a classroom and playground where Hamas gunmen were holed up, the IDF said.

According to the IDF, troops also located an observation post at the school that had been used by Hamas.

03:01 PM BST

Pictured: Warning to Israel over missile strike

The IDF has posted a reminder to Israelis on social media about safety instructions in case of missile attacks

02:48 PM BST

Israel opens new Gaza aid crossing

The first trucks transporting food aid via the newly built northern crossing travelled today into Gaza, the IDF reported.

The trucks were inspected at the Kerem Shalom crossing point on the border with Egypt before moving north to cross into the Strip, it added.

Israel announced earlier this month that it would not re-open the Erez crossing point into Gaza, which has been closed since the start of the war, for fear that protestors would block trucks carrying desperately needed aid into the war-torn region.

02:19 PM BST

Watch: Hamas leaders son killed in strike

02:14 PM BST

France tells citizens not to travel to Israel

Frances foreign ministry has advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Irans threats against its regional adversary.

In a statement on Twitter, the French foreign ministry said that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

01:55 PM BST

Pictured: Jordan anti-war protests

Demonstrators in Jordan carry flags and banners during a protest in support of Palestinians in Gaza - Reuters

Protestors hold placards stating: "We celebrate with victory" - Jehad Shelbak/Reuters

01:44 PM BST

Israel kills son of Hamas West Bank leader

Israeli forces have shot dead the son of a former Hamas West Bank leader in an early morning raid, the IDF has confirmed.

Muhammad Rasoul - the son of Omar Daraghmeh, a West Bank Hamas leader who died while imprisoned in Israel - was shot dead in his car during an early morning raid on the West Bank city of Tubas, local media reported.

Mr Rasoul, a central Hamas member in the West Bank city of Tubas, was shot dead after opening fire at Israeli troops from a car, the IDF said, adding that several firearms and other pieces of military equipment were seized from his vehicle.

Images of the incident posted by news agencies show a bullet-ridden car, allegedly belonging to Mr Rasoul.

The death of Mr Daraghmeh in October last year, days after he was imprisoned, triggered mass demonstrations in Tubas amid accusations of an Israeli assassination.

01:12 PM BST

29 dead after Israeli airstrike

At least 29 people have been killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza Citys Daraj neighbourhood, with dozens more wounded, Wafa, the Palestinian news agency, reported.

Footage of the aftermath of the attack posted by Al Jazeera Arabic shows rescuers carrying bodies from the rubble of a blown-out building.

Elsewhere in Gaza City, Israeli helicopters carried out strikes in the Zeitoun, Shujayea and Remal neighbourhoods, wounding multiple civilians, according to Wafa.

12:49 PM BST

Battle Lines: Will Israel strike Iran?

12:19 PM BST

Gaza death toll reaches 33,634

At least 33,634 people have been killed in Gaza during more than six months of war between Israel and Hamas, the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry reported.

The toll includes at least 89 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that 76,214 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began.

11:34 AM BST

Israel preparing for Iranian attack within 24-48 hours

Israel is preparing for a direct attack from Iran in the next 24 to 48 hours, a US intelligence source reported.

The country is readying itself for a possible strike on either southern or northern Israel, the source, who was not named, told the Wall Street Journal, as the US embassy placed travel restrictions on all government employees based in the country.

With the region on red alert, Iran is allegedly planning a larger-than-usual aerial attack featuring a mix of missiles and drone strikes, but it intends to limit its strike to avoid provoking a US response, a separate official told Politico.

Iran is looking to calibrate it, so they essentially dont overplay their hand, the official said.

11:15 AM BST

Hamas police chief killed in Gaza airstrike

The head of Hamass internal security in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, was killed in an airstrike yesterday, the IDF and Shin Bet reported.

In addition to serving as a Hamas police chief in Jabaliya, Radwan Muhammad Abdullah Radwan was part of the militant groups military wing, according to Israeli intelligence.

Radwan gave orders to Hamas operatives and was responsible for directing armed terrorists to take control of humanitarian aid trucks in the northern Gaza Strip, the IDF said in a statement. It added that his killing degrades Hamass capabilities to attack and take control of humanitarian aid in the Jabaliya area, the Times of Israel reported.

A separate Israeli strike yesterday killed Hamed Muhammad Ali Ahmed, a Hamas militant commander who was responsible for internal security in Jabaliya, as well as another operative in the terror groups Jabaliya Battalion, the IDF said.

10:36 AM BST

Update: China pledges to cool down tensions in Middle East

China has said it will contribute to cooling down rapidly escalating tensions in the Middle East after talks with the United States.

Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, spoke to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi this week to urge Beijing to use its influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel.

Beijing said that during the call, Mr Wang expressed Chinas strong condemnation of the attack while emphasising the inviolable right to security of diplomatic institutions and the need to respect the sovereignty of Iran and Syria.

China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue... and contribute to cooling down the situation, Mao Ning, a foreign ministry spokeswoman, added.

Beijing in turn has criticised the US as biased toward Israel, calling on Washington to play a constructive role in the resolution of the crisis.

This round of escalation is the latest manifestation of the spillover from the Gaza conflict, and it is imperative that the Gaza conflict be put to rest as soon as possible, Ms Mao said, adding Beijing was calling for an immediate ceasefire.

See post at 9.06am for more details.

10:16 AM BST

Pictured: West Bank Hamas leaders son shot dead

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh, the son of deceased West Bank Hamas leader Omar Daraghmeh, was shot dead in a car during an IDF West Bank raid - Getty Images

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was a Al-Qassam Brigades commander, reports suggest - Getty Images

His car was left riddled with bullets - Shutterstock

09:49 AM BST

US frustrated by lack of notice from Israel over Syria strike

Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, complained directly to his Israeli counterpart Yoav Galant that Israel should have warned the US before launching an airstrike on Irans consular in Damascus, three senior US officials reported.

The strike, which killed two senior members of Irans Revolutionary Guard, has triggered threats of a retaliatory attack from Tehran on Israeli soil, leaving the region on red alert.

Mr Austin and other senior defence officials believed Israel should have informed the US ahead of time because of the strikes implications for US troops and interests in the region, the three officials told the Washington Post. They added that forewarning would have enabled the Pentagon to position war ships in the area to protect both Israel and US troops from a potential Iranian response.

An official readout of the conversation released on April 3 did not disclose the Pentagons frustrations, saying only that Mr Austin reiterated US support for Israels defense against a range of regional threats.

09:26 AM BST

Israel kills former Hamas leaders son in West Bank

Israeli forces have shot dead two Palestinians in an early morning raid in the West Bank, Wafa, the Palestinian news agency, reported.

One man was killed when Israeli soldiers opened fire on his vehicle in Tubas, while another was shot dead by Israeli gunfire when troops raided the nearby Al-Fara refugee camp, the agency said.

According to local reports, one of those killed was Muhammad Rasoul, the son of Omar Daraghmeh, a West Bank Hamas leader who died while imprisoned in Israel.

The area around Tubas in the northern West Bank is a stronghold of Palestinian armed groups and the frequent target of Israeli military incursions.

09:06 AM BST

White House urges China to reign in Iran

The US has asked China to urge Tehran not to attack Israel.

Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, spoke to Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister, this week amid mounting concern in Washington that Iran could launch an imminent retaliatory strike on Israel for its air strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria, the Financial Times reported.

We have also engaged with European allies and partners over the past few days and urged them as well to send a clear message to Iran: that escalation is not in Irans interest, its not in the regions interest and its not in the worlds interest, said Matt Miller, a state department spokesman.

The Biden administration has repeatedly implored China in recent months to use its leverage with Tehran to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, but US officials have privately said they have seen no evidence that Beijing has done anything to apply pressure.

08:45 AM BST

Iran has enough enriched uranium for three nuclear bombs

Iran has a supply of highly enriched uranium that could be converted to make the fuel for at least three nuclear bombs within a few weeks, current and former US officials reported.

After a decision is made by Tehran, making a crude nuclear device could take as little as six months, while building a nuclear warhead that could be fired by a missile would two years, the officials told the Washington Post.

Tehran has rapidly developed its nuclear capabilities since the US withdrew from a joint nuclear pact in 2018, enriching uranium at ever-faster speeds and nearly doubling its output at one of the countrys major plants.

They are dancing right up to the edge, a separate US official said.

08:27 AM BST

Pictured: Israelis call for hostage release

Israeli's protest for a deal and the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza - Hannah McKay/Reuters

08:10 AM BST

US embassy restricts travel for government employees in Israel

The US has restricted travel for its diplomats in Israel amid fears of an imminent Iranian attack.

The US embassy released a statement on its website prohibiting government employees and their families from personal travel outside of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or Beersheba until further notice out of an abundance of caution.

Asked about the travel restrictions, Matthew Miller, a state department spokesman, declined to disclose the specific assessments behind them, adding: Clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel.

08:00 AM BST

Iran must not draw Middle East into wider conflict, says Lord Cameron

Lord Cameron has urged his Iran to row back on its threats to launch a direct attack on Israeli soil in order to avoid a regional conflict.

Today I made clear to Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian that Iran must not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict, the Foreign Secretary wrote on Twitter.

I am deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence. Iran should instead work to de-escalate and prevent further attacks, he added.

Tehran vowed to seek revenge on Israel for an attack on its embassy in Damascus last week that killed seven members of Irans Revolutionary Guard.

The White House has warned that an Iranian retaliatory strike could be imminent.

07:53 AM BST

US pledges full support to defend Israel against Iran attack

Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, has pledged Washingtons full support to defend Israel in the face of a Iranian retaliatory strike.

Mr Austin spoke yesterday with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant to reaffirm ironclad US support for Israels defence in the face of growing threats from Iran, a Pentagon statement said.

Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full US support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened, the readout said.

07:46 AM BST

Pictured: Israel bombards Gaza City

Palestinians watch on as smoke billows into the air in the Firas market area of Gaza City amid Israeli bombardment - AFP

07:43 AM BST

Netanyahu vows to harm anyone attacking Israel as fears of Iran strike grow

Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday vowed to harm anyone who attacks Israel amid fears that Iran is poised to launch an unprecedented direct missile attack on its old enemy, write James Rothwell and Moataz Khalil.

The Israeli prime minister said whoever harms us, we will harm them after US intelligence officials warned that Tehran is preparing a strike that could plunge the Middle East into a new war.

Israeli jets carried out drills simulating a strike on Iran, local media reported, while Western and Arab diplomats scrambled to persuade the Islamic republic against military action.

Elite Iranian forces based in Syria have moved into civilian hotels in anticipation of Israeli blowback, security sources told The Telegraph.

Read the full report here.

07:40 AM BST

How Israel and Iran went from best friends to arch-enemies on the cusp of all-out war

When Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini launched an Islamic revolution in Iran in 1979 and overthrew the countrys pro-Western leader, one of the first things he did was cut ties with Israel.

The two countries had been allies under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, back when the nascent state of Israel was keen to work with any non-Arab friends in the region.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Israel sent contractors and military advisers to Tehran and bought Iranian oil. The two countries were even involved in a joint weapons development programme that was kept under wraps for fear of angering Irans Arab allies.

But everything changed when Khomeini, a Shia cleric, seized power. He saw Israel as an American puppet crushing the rights of the Muslim Palestinians, and denied the country had a right to exist.

Read Nataliyas full report here.

07:39 AM BST

All Irans options for an attack on Israel  and how Netanyahu could respond

Israel is braced for a potentially major escalation in its conflict with Iran after a US intelligence assessment warned that Tehran could order a strike on military and government targets inside the country in the coming days, writes James Rothwell.

Israeli ministers have vowed that if Tehran takes direct military action then they will respond with their own strikes on Iranian territory, opening the door to a full-scale regional war in the Middle East.

A US intelligence assessment revealed this week by Bloomberg states that Iran could be poised to launch high-precision strikes using ballistic missiles or drones on targets inside Israel. A source quoted in the report said it was a matter of when, not if, Iran strikes, though it is less clear whether Tehran would take direct action or rely on its proxy network.

Either way, the Bloomberg report suggests Iran is drawing up plans for attacks only on military and government sites in Israel, of which the most obvious would be the Kirya, the Israeli military headquarters in Tel Aviv.

Read Jamess full analysis here.
Harris speaks on reproductive freedom at El Rio Neighborhood center in Tucson, Arizona, on 12 April 2024. Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty Images

Kamala Harris pinned the blame for Arizonas abortion ban squarely on Donald Trump, who she described as the architect of this healthcare crisis in a speech at a campaign event in Tucson on Friday.

The state was left reeling after the Arizona supreme court ruled earlier this week that a civil war-era law banning abortion in the state with almost no exceptions is now enforceable.

Here in Arizona they have turned back the clock to the 1800s to take away a womans most fundamental right  the right to make decisions about her own body, the vice-president said, adding that women in the state now live under one of the most extreme abortion bans in our nation.

Related: Harris is reaching Democrats where Biden isnt  on abortion and Gaza

The overturning of Roe was, without any question, a seismic event and this ban here in Arizona is one of the biggest aftershocks yet, she said.

The decision in Arizona will have major implications for reproductive healthcare across the US south-west and will likely make abortion a defining issue of the 2024 race. Republicans in the state, who cheered the overturning of Roe v Wade and once passionately supported a ban, including the far-right Senate candidate Kari Lake, have suddenly backpedalled.

The ban was made possible by Trump, Harris argued, who had said he is proudly responsible for the supreme court overturning Roe v Wade in 2022.

Former president Donald Trump did this. During his campaign in 2016, Donald Trump said women should be punished for seeking an abortion, she said.

Arizonas ban is a new inflection point, Harris said. It has demonstrated once and for all that overturning Roe was just the opening act of a larger strategy to take womens rights and freedoms, part of a full-on attack, state by state, on reproductive freedom.

The law in Arizona, which predates its statehood, does not provide exceptions for rape or incest and abortions are permitted only if the mothers life is at risk.

Trump, like other high-profile Republicans, has argued Arizonas court went too far: Thatll be straightened out, and as you know, its all about states rights.

Lake, who had previously expressed her support for the ban and even cited the number of the 1864 code, said this week that she agrees with Trump and has urged lawmakers to repeal it.

Support for abortion in the US has been at record highs. Arizonas Republican lawmakers, with their sudden changes of heart, seem to be aware that the states drastic ban is deeply unpopular among voters and could have repercussions in November.

Among those who came out against the courts decision was Republican state representative Matt Gress. This decision cannot stand, said Gress. I categorically reject rolling back the clock to a time when slavery was still legal and we could lock up women and doctors because of an abortion.

Gress had tried to bring forth a bill to repeal the ban but then voted with other Republicans to move to recess.

The law does not have the support of Arizonans, Lake said in a video on Thursday. Political analysts have said that the near-total ban would help draw moderate voters to Democrats while mobilizing young voters and voters of color.

The ban has fired up Democrats, who have already made Arizona a top priority in 2024 and hope the issue will mobilize voters in the state and across the US.

Arizona, this November up and down the ballot reproductive freedom is at stake, and you have the power to protect it with your vote, Harris said.
Although physically and psychologically damaged, Keith Carmichael did not succumb to self-pity. Photograph: Fiona Lloyd-Davies/Redress

Questions were asked in the House of Commons after Keith Carmichael disappeared into a Saudi Arabian jail in November 1981. His case was repeatedly raised by MPs and peers as news of his brutal mistreatment filtered out. It was not until he was released without charge two and half years later, however, that the extent of the torture he had endured became public knowledge.

Carmichael, who has died aged 90, was held in solitary confinement for three months, deprived of food and sleep, beaten on his knees and feet, sexually assaulted, shackled in leg irons, suffered a fractured spine and detained in rat-infested cells. He was also threatened with crucifixion and electrocution if he did not confess to numerous crimes (including leaving Saudi Arabia illegally, spying and criticising the royal family), which he refused to do.

The former Scots Guards officer and businessman never received a formal apology from the Saudi government or official compensation for his ordeal. Nor did his unlawful imprisonment cause any significant disruption to UK-Saudi commercial relations.

Although physically and psychologically damaged, Carmichael did not succumb to self-pity but transformed his indignation into founding in 1992 and developing a charity, Redress, to support torture survivors and help them obtain justice.

Now an international organisation based in London and The Hague, it has 30 employees. Redress may not have succeeded in overturning the long-established law on state immunity  which means that foreign states are immune from legal action in British courts  but it has raised awareness of the suffering of victims, and campaigns against the use of torture.

A tall, imposing figure, Carmichael had arrived in Saudi Arabia to work on construction projects. The company he worked for, Sacem, was hired in 1981 by a corporation controlled by a Saudi royal family member. Disagreement arose over Sacems alleged debts and his visa was in danger of being revoked. Advised by lawyers to flee the country, he was arrested in neighbouring Qatar and returned to Ulaysha detention centre. He eventually spent 857 days in Saudi prisons, but managed to smuggle out reports of his torture to Amnesty International.

The British ambassador to Saudi Arabia later told Carmichael that Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud, then the governor of Riyadh and now the Saudi king, had described Carmichaels imprisonment as a mistake. He was freed in March 1984 and flown back to London for hospital treatment.

Born in London, Keith was the younger son of Jeannette (nee Montgomerie) and Arnold Carmichael. His father, a neurologist, was director of the neurological research unit at the Medical Research Council. Keiths elder brother, Ian, went on to become an expert on volcanoes and professor of earth sciences at the University of California, Berkeley.

From Westminster school Keith went on to national service as a second lieutenant in the Scots Guards (1952-54). Posted abroad, he was stationed in the Suez canal zone. At Oxford University, he studied philosophy, politics and economics but switched to a business course at the University of London. After university he worked in sales at Shell, became a marketing manager at Lever Brothers, wrote management training manuals and travelled in the Middle East as a freelance writer. For several years he was employed by IPC Magazines and Thomson Publications.

He also served as a captain in the Territorial Reserve attached to the Independent Parachute brigade. In 1972, he became chairman of companies that restored historic properties and built housing developments. Five years later he joined Sacem International as managing director. The Dutch company constructed warehouses, medical centres and accommodation for foreign workers in Saudi Arabia.

After returning from his ordeal, he spent several years recuperating. Often in pain, he walked stiffly with a limp and was diagnosed with PTSD. He nonetheless retained his charismatic sense of humour.

Having failed to obtain reparations through diplomatic channels and court actions in Saudi Arabia and the US, Carmichael turned his efforts to confronting the broader problem of torture and helping other survivors.

In 1992, he established Redress with the help of Dame Rosalyn Higgins KC, the former president of the international court of justice, other lawyers and activists. He gave evidence to the US Congress and to the UK parliament.

The charity championed the case of Sulaiman al-Adsani  a Kuwaiti and British citizen who had been tortured in Kuwait  in 2001, taking his appeal against state immunity to the European court of human rights, where it narrowly lost the final judgment.

The torture damages bill  a private members bill initiated by Lord (Peter) Archer of Sandwell and backed by Redress  sought to create an exception to the 1978 State Immunity Act by preventing alleged torturers from claiming immunity in British courts. It was supported by the House of Lords in 2008 but never adopted by the Commons.

Carmichael explained: For many of us [torture survivors] the goal is for states to admit that we have been tortured. Importantly, we would like to receive an apology. We would like to see the torturers punished. We need to prove that they did not succeed in destroying us as human beings.

Years later he was given a token sum by a Saudi individual.

Carmichael had been married but divorced following his detention in Saudi Arabia. His brother died in 2011.

 Keith Macfarlane Carmichael, human rights campaigner and businessman, born 1 January 1934; died 21 March 2024
Sir Keir Starmer's party is projected to win more than 400 seats but could lose two it held in 2019 under Jeremy Corbyn - Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

Labour risks losing a number of urban target seats as loyal Left-wing voters turn their backs on the party, experts have warned.

With some Muslim and younger voters put off Sir Keir Starmers party as a result of its stance on Gaza and net zero issues, Labour may even lose two seats it won in 2019.

Labour is predicted to win a landslide victory according to most polling, with The Telegraphs poll tracker putting them consistently 20 points ahead of the Conservatives.

According to a seat-by-seat YouGov poll, Labour is now projected to win more than 400 seats, with the Tories facing their worst general election wipeout on record.

But it also predicted Labour could lose two seats it held in 2019 under Jeremy Corbyn and there were up to a dozen on the partys target list they may also struggle to win.

Patrick English of YouGov said: If there is a big anti-Labour feeling among Muslim and young voters, that could cost them in a big way in places where those groups make up 10-15 per cent of the population each.

If the polls are level or even if Labour is five points ahead, it could be extremely damaging for Labour and could mean they fail to win a whole host of English bellwether marginal seats.

Sir Keirs domestic policy platform is far from the radical one he stood on to become Mr Corbyns replacement in 2020, as the party appears to move towards the centre ground on some key issues as it has come closer to power.

But it appears to have thrown two seats that Mr Corbyn held on to in 2019 into possible peril.

The race appears closest in Sheffield Hallam, where the Liberal Democrats are just one percentage point behind Labour in recent polling.

Shaffaq Mohammed, the Lib Dem candidate in Sir Nick Cleggs old seat, told The Guardian that Sheffield has traditionally been a Left-of-centre city and that some of Sir Keirs policy moves had put off voters.

Keir Starmer embracing some of the Conservative policies such as the two-child limit on benefits has not gone down well here, he added.

Mr Mohammed also cited the Labour Partys stance on Gaza, which has proven to be a political headache for Sir Keir among traditional supporters and even within his party.

In November, 10 MPs resigned from Sir Keirs frontbench to go against him and vote for an immediate ceasefire.

Labours official position now is that there should be an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, with David Lammy, the shadow foreign secretary, saying in February they were now mirroring the language of the UN and other members of the Five Eyes alliance.

But the partys stance over the course of the war in Gaza since the Hamas attacks on Oct 7 appears to have damaged its support, particularly among Muslim voters.

The Labour Muslim Network, which represents Muslim MPs, councillors and party members, said in February, before the party changed its stance on an immediate ceasefire, that it was a crisis point for the future of the relationship between the British Muslim community and the Labour Party.

We will work to win back support weve lost

Another thorn in Labours side when it comes to holding on to younger voters is its stance on climate issues, with the party having ditched its 28 billion green pledge earlier this year.

Bristol Central, a seat that is replacing shadow culture secretary Thangham Debbonaires seat of Bristol West, will see the Green Party challenge Labour, according to YouGov.

The Greens Carla Denyer is currently polling at 29 per cent, the main challenger to Ms Debbonaire  who won a 28,000 strong majority in 2019.

A Labour spokesman said: Weve had a deliberate strategy to broaden our electoral appeal by changing the Labour Party and putting it back in the service of working people.

We dont take any support for granted and we will continue to work to win back any support weve lost ahead of the general election.
A laser capable of shooting down enemy drones and missiles will be on Royal Navy warships by 2027 amid the growing threat of conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

The 10 a shot DragonFire weapon could be used even sooner in Ukraine, as the military fast-tracks the cutting-edge technology.

The laser has been sped up by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in response to the rising threat of drone attacks in relation to two big conflicts, the Government has announced.

Scientists at the UKs Porton Down defence laboratory (DSTL) have worked with industry experts in recent months to transform the laser weapon from a lab experiment to almost battlefield-ready.

The UK has successfully tested a DragonFire laser weapon for the first time - Twitter

Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, said on Thursday on a trip to the DragonFire lab that the weapon, which can hit a 1 coin from a kilometre away, could have huge ramifications.

He said that delays to the rollout of emerging weapons technologies is the biggest waste of money in defence.

Every time theres a delay, theres a cost attached, he said.

What I want to do is speed up what would usually be a very lengthy process, possibly up to 10 years, down to a much shorter timeframe and get it deployed, potentially on ships and potentially on land.

Mr Shapps said the UK is planning to add DragonFire to its arsenal by 2027, but is working to see if it can send prototypes to Ukraine sooner  even if they are not 100 per cent refined.

Im absolutely certain that what weve got going on here is very special, and a level that other countries are unlikely to be replicating because its so cutting-edge, he said.

The product itself is genuinely years ahead.

The weapon works by focusing 37 channels of 1.5kW laser beams, arranged in a hexagonal array, and combining them with mirrors to merge and amplify the power, a physics phenomenon known as constructive interference.

Tim Kendall, a DSTL senior laser physicist who helped build DragonFire, said this creates a perfect laser beam which can be fired out through a telescopic lens.

The weapon is invisible and silent as the wavelength of the light is about one micron, which can not be seen by human eyes and is close to the infrared spectrum of light.

Trials of the weapon, made with an almost entirely bespoke guidance system and off-the-shelf laser parts, have destroyed drones and caused mortars to explode in less than five seconds.

It is hoped the laser can hit drones at a fraction of the cost of launching intercepting missiles, which can reach tens and hundreds of thousands of pounds.

DragonFire travels at the speed of light and its range is still classified. It instantly turns the surface of metal into a 3,000C plasma and can burn through sheet metal, fuselage and weapons in seconds.

The system has been built with the intention of destroying drones, which the Israel and Ukraine conflicts have highlighted as the latest frontier in modern warfare.

But Mr Shapps believes the system is powerful enough to neutralise faster-moving projectiles, such as ballistic missiles.

Its not just the slow drones at 120 knots. It should be capable, ultimately, of taking down expensive incoming missiles as well, he said.

While the technology is not ready to be deployed in battle, Mr Shapps admitted that he is holding talks with military scientists about how the UK can drive DragonFire forward to be used on the ground in conflict.

2027 is the aim, but I want to look at every single aspect of this, he said.

Theres a live conflict going on in Europe right now for which we have a unique cutting edge weapon which could be helpful.

Lets say that it didnt have to be 100 per cent perfect in order for Ukrainians, perhaps, to get their hands on it. 2027 is still the date, as of this moment, but of course, Ill look to see what we can do to speed it up.

Matt Cork, a project manager at DSTL, told reporters that DragonFire may be handed over for user experimentation to a number of army personnel in September with the 7th Air Defence Group putting the technology through its paces.

The terrestrial version of DragonFire is still intended as a ground-based air defence technology and will be mounted on a truck, at which point British Army experts will give feedback on how it could be improved and highlight any problems.

DragonFire will follow British minehunting ships sent to Ukraine

It comes as two ex-British minehunting ships which were handed over to Ukraine arrived in Portsmouth, prepared for their ultimate mission of demining the Black Sea.

Eduard Fesko, the interim Ukrainian ambassador to the UK watched the ships Chernihiv and Cherkasy - formerly known as HMS Grimsby and HMS Shoreham - come into port on Thursday.

Ukrainian sailors and their new ships are now at full operational capability, the Royal Navy said, after completing training alongside British personnel.

The Government announced in December that two Sandown-class warships had been decommissioned from the Royal Navy to be transferred to the Ukrainian military, which will use them to start demining the estimated 800 sq km of mines in the Black Sea.

Turkey has blocked the two minehunter vessels from entering the Black Sea, citing the 1936 Montreux Convention governing wartime passage through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits.

But Mr Fesko said that clearing the mines from the area was a priority for post-war Ukraine, in order to restore one of its key grain export corridors.

He told The Telegraph: After the cessation of hostilities, it will be a huge undertaking, it will be a huge task and it will be the first and foremost priority to make sure that the trade routes are safe for civilian ships.

The mine-hunting ships are made of glass-reinforced plastic, so that they cannot be detected by mines that detonate when detecting the magnetic field of a metal vessel.

Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, said: The UK is leading the way in helping Ukraine to modernise its Navy. The transfer of these ships and the excellent training provided by the Royal Navy will have a real long-term impact on Ukraines ability to defend its waters.

It comes after Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, travelled to the US this week to push for Washington to continue providing aid to Ukraine.

Asked about the Foreign Secretarys trip, Mr Fesko said: When we talk about weapons stockpiles, the availability of hardware material is much higher in the US than elsewhere for a multitude of reasons.

But this is the situation as it is, and that the UK is trying its best to ensure that Ukraine can get the help it needs is very telling.
A speed limit sign in a 20mph zone

London councils did not consider the economic cost of implementing 20mph speed limits across the capital, The Telegraph can reveal.

Eleven boroughs in the capital have blanket 20mph speed limits across all of their roads, a move made in the hope of reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries among pedestrians and cyclists.

Transport for London (TfL) says that every year 1,000 people are injured or killed by drivers exceeding the speed limit.

However, eight of the 11 boroughs have admitted they have no record of carrying out a formal cost-benefit analysis before lowering their speed limits.

Cost-benefit analyses are supposed to be carried out before public bodies decide to spend taxpayers money on new projects.

Councils for City of London, Hackney, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Lewisham, Richmond and Wandsworth, Southwark, and Tower Hamlets all said in freedom of information (FOI) responses that they had no records of any cost-benefit analysis being done before they introduced 20mph speed limits.

The lower limit now covers half of all roads inside the M25.

It comes after research from the satnav company TomTom found that London was the worlds slowest city in which to drive.

Ranil Jayawardena, the former international trade minister and the MP for North East Hampshire, said: Pro-20mph local government officials often claim that ever slower limits are needed for safety reasons. They imply opponents dont value life. Its powerful rhetoric.

Yet studies show the safety difference between 30mph and 20mph is limited, even negligible. It is certainly much smaller than that between 40mph and 30mph.

Ranil Jayawardena, the MP for North East Hampshire, has questioned the logic behind 20mph zones - Geoff Pugh for the Telegraph

Liam Deacon, the campaigner who asked councils for the evidence backing their 20mph speed limits, said: Polling indicates that, where they have been introduced, blanket 20mph limits are opposed by large majorities.

Yet many rural councils, TfL and nearly all London borough councils are energetically campaigning for them.

John OConnell, the chief executive of the TaxPayers Alliance, said: Residents will be reeling from these revelations that local authorities are forcing controversial schemes through without consideration of the costs.

These 20mph zones are driving motorists crazy, yet numerous councils have failed to do basic due diligence on the pros and cons.

Town halls should urgently review these zones to ensure that they are actually delivering results for local people.

Camden council said that it had carried out an extensive analysis before imposing its blanket 20mph limits nine years ago but gave no further details.

Similarly, Westminster claimed that it had a clear evidenced case on file about its decision to impose blanket 20mph limits in 2019.

Hackney said that it had lost all of its records about introducing 20mph limits in a devastating 2020 cyber-attack, so could not say whether or not officials carried out an analysis.

TfL has previously said that lowering speeds was a crucial part of its so-called Vision Zero plan for reducing road deaths.

Millions of pounds have been spent imposing 20mph limits across the capital, including nearly 17 million by TfL.

A Richmond council spokesman said that its detailed plans for blanket 20mph limits were set out clearly to residents throughout the consultation and engagement period for the proposals.

A council document from March 2019 notes that half of locals opposed the lowering of limits before they were imposed.

While the City of London Corporation said in its FOI response that no economic cost benefit analysis was carried out, a spokesman insisted sufficient evidence was presented to show the benefits of implementing a lower speed limit on reducing the number and severity of casualties.
Police at the scene in Hartlepool in October - NNP/Raoul Dixon

An asylum seeker accused of randomly murdering a pensioner for the sake of Palestine was turned down for asylum in Germany, his housemate told investigators.

A court heard that Ahmed Ali Alid, 45, had been living in a shared home with three other asylum seekers in Hartlepool, County Durham, at the time of the attack.

Mr Alid tried to murder Javed Nouri as he slept because he regarded him as an apostate for converting from Islam to Christianity.

After attacking Mr Nouri he then ran into the streets in the early hours of Oct 15 last year, where he chanced upon 70-year-old Terence Carney who was taking a dawn walk.

The prosecution has said he was to tell police he stabbed the two men in revenge for what he believed to be the killing of children by Israel.

Mr Nouri, via a Farsi interpreter, told police he had moved into the Home Office-approved accommodation around three months before the attack.

He said he realised this man was extreme in his religion and was a strict Muslim.

Mr Nouri challenged Alid about why he came to the UK and not to a Muslim country if he did not like how people lived.

Thats why I came here

Mr Nouri told police: He would tell me his family is in Germany and they did not give me asylum there  thats why I came here.

(He said) I am waiting to get a decision for my asylum and to bring them over here.

Mr Nouri said Alid challenged the housemates over beer that had been left in the fridge, saying it should not be in the house.

He told police: I realised he was an extreme Muslim, in his religion alcohol consumption is not good.

Mr Nouri said he saw Alid had started to routinely carry a knife and was scaring the other housemates.

He went to the housing bosses and told them of his concerns about Alid, particularly given that Mr Nouri had changed his religion.

Mr Nouri said he also contacted the Home Office with his worries about Alid.

He told detectives: I told them that we are not safe here... He could attack us at any moment.

Alid denies murdering Mr Carney, attempted murder and two counts of assaulting detectives after he was arrested.

The trial continues.
Cass Review concluded that children have been let down by 'remarkably weak' evidence on medical interventions in gender care - iStockphoto

An NHS transgender clinic doctor endorsed procedures such as enabling patients to have both male and female genitalia, leaked messages reveal.

Last month, messages were leaked from a cache of files from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), which sets guidelines that have influenced NHS treatment.

They showed that doctors are carrying out life-changing surgery and prescribing puberty blockers even though they are aware the adults and children may not fully understand the long-term ramifications. One doctor talked about a transgender person who died of cancer as a result of his hormone treatment.

Current NHS guidelines facilitate some patients who experience gender dysphoria to transition to a different gender, with treatment through hormones and surgery.

However, The Telegraph has been sent unredacted screenshots of the leaked messages, which identify a leading NHS doctor, Jonathan Arcelus, a professor in mental health and transgender health at the University of Nottingham, as among those discussing and endorsing controversial procedures which are currently not allowed on the NHS.

Prof Arcelus is a member of WPATH and works as a medical doctor at the NHSs Nottingham National Centre for Transgender Health where he provides psychological support to patients as well as hormone treatment and referrals for gender-related surgery.

Earlier this week, the landmark Cass Review was published by the paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass. The report was commissioned by NHS England in 2020 following a sharp rise in the number of patients who were questioning their gender and assessed gender identity services for under-18s. It concluded that children have been let down by a lack of research and remarkably weak evidence on medical interventions in gender care.

In her report, Dr Cass was highly critical of WPATH, saying that while it had been highly influential in directing international practice, its guidelines were found by the University of York appraisal process to lack developmental rigour.

Refusing to share data

Dr Derek Glidden, who, like Prof Arcelus also works at the Nottingham National Centre for Transgender Health and is its clinical director and is NHS Englands gender dysphoria national speciality adviser, was also criticised after refusing to share data about his patients with the Cass Review.

However, in the leaked WPATH messages, seen by The Telegraph, which form part of an internal message board discussing standards of care for non-binary patients, various members discuss a range of procedures, including patients keeping their original genitalia, as well as having all genitalia removed entirely.

The thread begins with one member asking how they come up with appropriate standards and best practices for non-binary patients, adding: Ive found more and more patients recently requesting non-standard procedures such as top surgery without nipples, nullification, and phallus-preserving vaginoplasty.

In response to the message thread, Prof Arcelus suggests that such controversial procedures may become standard in future, and, as such, should not be referred to as non-standard.

According to the unredacted screenshots, Prof Arcelus said: Is non-standard procedures the best term to use? They may become standard in the future any more possible terms that could be used to describe these kinds of procedures without having to describe them?

In 2022, WPATH, which is a self-regulated membership body, published its updated Standards of Care: Version 8. Prof Arcelus was the co-chair of the guidelines, which have since been widely criticised by gender-critical campaigners and medical professionals.

The new guidance which he oversaw contains a chapter on non-binary identities as well as a chapter on eunuchs, which defines groups of people who have been castrated as well as individuals who are assigned male at birth and wish to eliminate masculine physical features, masculine genitals, or genital functioning.

Eunuch gender identity

In response to the comments, Helen Joyce, director of advocacy at the charity, Sex Matters, said: Its deeply worrying that someone so closely associated with the second-largest NHS gender clinic in the UK played a key role in developing the Standards of Care Version 8 from WPATH, a discredited international organisation that lobbies globally for removing gatekeeping from gender medicine.

This is the notorious document that claims baby boys can be born with a eunuch gender identity and that removed all suggested age limits for children to have irreversible procedures.

It endorsed so-called non-binary gender surgeries  giving men fake vaginas alongside their penises, or women fake penises alongside their vaginas, or even nullification  removal of all sex organs. There is, to put it mildly, no evidence that these risky and bizarre procedures are ever clinically indicated.

It is shocking that the leaked WPATH files seem to show Professor Arcelus suggesting that these Frankenstein procedures may become standard in future.

He has questions to answer about his simultaneous involvement in WPATH and in the NHS. Will the clinic hes linked to start offering these surgeries? Does he think the NHS should be paying for them?

In contrast, Dr Jane Hamlin, President Emerita of the Beaumont Society, a charity which supports transgender people, said: The important issue for trans people is that the most appropriate support and treatment is available for those who need it.

Sex Matters is an organisation that is openly hostile to trans people and regularly spreads misinformation about us. I would not take anything they say very seriously.

With waiting lists at all UK gender clinics at heart-breaking length  even in the unlikely event that these controversial procedures were to be adopted  it would be years before it was offered to anyone.

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, the University of Nottingham and Prof Arcelus were contacted for comment.
People savor beautiful sights of spring flowers across China

People's Daily Online) 09:57, April 12, 2024

Visitors take pictures of blooming malus spectabilis on a street in Xinghualing district, Taiyuan city, capital of north China's Shanxi Province, April 5, 2024. (People's Daily Online/Lu Pengyu)

Attracted by the vibrant hues and captivating beauty of colorful flowers blooming in full splendor, residents of various cities across China are enjoying outings and sightseeing tours in the springtime.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
SYDNEY, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Police in the Australian state of Victoria have commenced a manhunt for suspected offenders after a shooting incident injured one man in Melbourne's east.

Emergency services were called to a residential building on Maidstone Street in Ringwood, following reports that a man had been injured in a shooting at about 3:10 a.m. local time on Friday.

A 27-year-old man has been taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening wounds, while another man escaped uninjured on the premises at that time.

According to a statement released by Victoria Police, two unknown males are believed to have entered the property and discharged a firearm before quickly fleeing the scene.

"At this stage, the exact circumstances of the shooting are yet to be determined, however, investigators are treating it as a targeted attack," said Victoria Police.

"The area has been cordoned off while detectives and officers from the Major Crime Scene Unit process the scene," the authority added.

With a population of approximately 18,000, Ringwood is a suburb located about 25 km east of Melbourne's central business district. 
A sign reads 'Ideas are bulletproof over the door of the Mount Zero bookshop on its last day of business. Photograph: Louise Delmotte/AP

Ideas are bulletproof. Three words, stamped out in multicolour tiles above a doorway, represented one of the last vestiges of Hong Kongs once vibrant literary spaces. On 31 March, Mount Zero, a beloved independent bookstore in Hong Kong, closed its doors for the final time. Hundreds of Hongkongers came to say goodbye.

The bookshop, which opened in 2018, took its slogan from the 2005 film V for Vendetta; the eponymous antiheros Guy Fawkes mask occasionally appeared during Hong Kongs pro-democracy protests.

Mount Zeros closure, which was announced after what the owner said was repeated inspections from the authorities, came as Hongkongers are coming to terms with a new reality of life with not one but two national security laws, which critics say are being used to crush dissent.

People are quickly adjusting to the idea that the old days of public expression are no more, says Bao Pu, the founder of New Century Press, a publishing house.

The pro-democracy protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2019 and 2020 feel like an increasingly distant memory. Where 2 million people once flooded the streets to oppose the governments plans to establish closer links with mainland China, an individual can now be jailed for wearing a seditious T-shirt.

The quietening is largely because of a national security law that Beijing imposed on Hong Kong in June 2020. Authorities say the law was necessary to restore stability; critics say the vaguely worded crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces effectively criminalise dissent.

Considering the millions of people who took to the streets in 2019 and 2020, relatively few people have actually been arrested under the law: 292 as of 31 January.

Related: Hong Kong official warns online criticism could breach new national security law

That is intentional, says Jeffrey Wasserstrom, a professor of Chinese history at the University of California, Irvine, and author of Vigil: Hong Kong on the Brink. More than 800 people have been arrested for rioting, while nearly 300 people have been targeted using a colonial-era sedition law. Protesters have been targeted with more than 100 different types of offences. It is hard for people to realise how much things have changed when you see these divided-up numbers, Wasserstrom says.

And now the authorities have another tool in their arsenal: Article 23, a homegrown national security law that covers newly defined acts of treason, espionage, theft of state secrets, sedition and foreign interference.

The government has been on the offensive in condemning what it calls scaremongering about the new legislation. A spokesperson said it only targets an extremely small minority of people who endanger national security.

The legislation has been decades in the making. It comes from a provision in Hong Kongs 1997 Basic Law. But a previous attempt to implement it in 2003 prompted 500,000 people to protest, causing the bill to be shelved. In 2024, the streets were silent.

The children of the [2003] protesters are now going to suffer through what their parents fought against, says Mark Sabah, director of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation.

Both of those generations have been swept up in a mass trial of pro-democracy figures who are waiting  most of them in jail cells  for judges hand-picked by the chief executive to decide their guilt or innocence. The prosecution of the Hong Kong 47, as theyve come to be known, includes well-known figures such as Joshua Wong and Benny Tai and has been extensively criticised by foreign governments, human rights groups and the defendants lawyers.

First arrested in 2020, they were accused of plotting to bring down the government by holding informal pre-election primaries. The formal charge is conspiracy to subvert state power. The arrests themselves were labelled politically motivated.

Related: Hong Kong artists flee as city grapples with status as arts hub amid rising repression

The 10-month trial ended in December. A verdict would normally be expected within six months, but given the complexity and size of the proceedings  16 of the 47 pleaded not guilty, with the remainder awaiting sentencing  many expect it to be delayed. The accused have already spent more than 1,000 days behind bars and face sentences of up to life in prison.

And while observers wait for that verdict, there are also concerns about the ongoing trial of Jimmy Lai, a British citizen and former medial mogul who has been detained since December 2020. His trial for colluding with foreign forces is expected to end in May, having been plagued by accusations that it is politically motivated and that one of the witnesses was tortured. The 76-year-old faces spending the rest of his life in prison.

Outside the courts, the government is keen to give the impression that life continues as normal. There are dozens of major events planned for the first half of this year, a lineup the government says will attract locals and tourists to participate and experience Hong Kongs unique glamour. More than 75,000 people attended this years Art Basel, according to its organisers, despite calls to boycott the art fair because of concerns about censorship.

And despite the widespread feeling among activists that Hong Kong is becoming like any other Chinese city, differences remain. The territory still has an open internet. It is still possible to buy materials that are banned in mainland China, although the number of vendors is dwindling. Baos New Century Press recently published a biography of a senior Chinese Communist party official who played an important role in the Cultural Revolution. A Chinese buyer despaired when the book was confiscated on three separate occasions as he tried to take it into the mainland.

And so far nobody has kidnapped me, Bao jokes. Not yet.

But the chipping away of civil society continues. On 10 April, a representative from the NGO Reporters Without Borders was detained for several hours at Hong Kong International airport and then deported, as she attempted to travel to the city to monitor Lais trial. In March, Radio Free Asia, a US-funded media outlet, closed its Hong Kong bureau, citing fears for staff safety because of Article 23. A journalist at the South China Morning Post went to Beijing in October for a defence conference and disappeared. At least 90 NGOs and 22 media groups have closed since the 2020 national security law, according to the Centre for Asian Law at Georgetown University.

Related: The Guardian view on Hong Kongs new national security law: double the pain | Editorial

If we really want Hong Kong to go back to a prosperous, safe and free city, I think we need to have a rapprochement, a dialogue with some people, says Emily Lau, a veteran pro-democracy politician and former legislator. Most people here accept that we are part of China. Theyre not going to use violence to overthrow the government, but they would like the freedom to express their views  like they have been doing for decades.

On 11 April, Mount Zero posted photographs of its final day on Instagram. People came one after another, a few young people asking each other, what exactly are we going to do? the caption reads. No one knew the specific answer.

Additional research by Chi Hui Lin
Pret coffee

Pret A Manger customers say they have abandoned their subscriptions as the offer cannot be used in service stations or abroad and is no longer worth it.

Others have complained about being unable to get the drinks they want, such as iced coffees and frappes, with some stores implementing a hot drinks only policy.

Club Pret, which was introduced by the coffee and sandwich chain during the pandemic to get customers back in stores, allows subscribers to order up to five barista-made drinks a day for a monthly fee of 30.

It was credited by Pret for its return to profit last year, but some customers are now saying the deal is no longer worthwhile.

I got rid of it about a month ago. I just think theyve been making it an increasingly bad deal over time, one 26-year-old customer told the Telegraph.

Another, a London-based student, said she had cancelled her subscription because the coffee was bad and too expensive.

She added that she had been struggling to get the iced drinks she wanted when she went into outlets unless she went very early in the morning.

They kept saying they had no ice and I got sick of it because all I wanted were the iced coffees and smoothies over summer. Neither were available unless you were there at like 10am, she said.

Price increases but no drinks available that I want? No thanks! she added.

It should be universally accepted

The company has increased the price of its subscription several times since it first launched.

It cost 20 a month when it began in 2020, with the first month free. The price rose to 25 in February 2022, and then to 30 last April.

The subscription service is also unable to be used at service stations in the UK, which has also disgruntled customers.

Given loyal customers pay for a Pret subscription, it should be universally accepted, one customer, who was unable to use his subscription at Stafford service station, wrote on Twitter.

One customer complained that it was not possible to use the subscription abroad, as she found out when she went into a Pret near the Gare du Nord station in Paris.

Another, from Northern Ireland, said it was really disappointing to have taken out a subscription only to realise he was unable to use it in Belfast.

The Club Pret subscription is also available for French customers, for 25 a month. Pret opened its first store in the country in 2012, and now has 49, including in Paris.

Technical issues

The company recently launched a crackdown on people sharing their Club Pret subscriptions.

Subscribers must now use the Pret app to claim the free drinks rather than accessing their QR code in their Apple Wallet or on a smartwatch, under new rules that came into effect on March 18.

It is understood that some customers were exploiting loopholes to share the subscription, either by sending friends a screenshot of a QR code or by logging in to various devices.

Some customers have reported technical issues with their app since the changes were made, with Pret confirming it had given refunds to those who have genuinely struggled to log in.

Previously, a spokesman said: A few customers may have experienced technical issues in accessing their new codes while logging into the Pret App.

Anyone with problems accessing their new code can contact our customer support team who will be happy to help.

The spokesman later added: Since we made this change in March, our team have either given refunds or applied the Club Pret discount as normal to any customers who have genuinely struggled to log in.

Pret has been contacted for comment regarding exempt stores and iced drinks.
The RAF's Red Arrow aerobatic team was due to perform in an air show in Gibraltar on Sept 23 last year, but the performance was cancelled - CHRONICLE/ALAMY

As His Majestys representative in Gibraltar, perhaps Vice-Adml Sir David Steel more keenly felt issues of Britishness and the Rocks connection to the mainland than the career UK diplomats.

Sir David, the governor of Gibraltar, is a Royal Navy man, having joined the service in 1979 and risen to Second Sea Lord. Along the way he became an aide-de-camp to Elizabeth II.

And so in the heat of late summer 2023, as a row between Spain and the UK that had been bubbling away for weeks began to approach boiling point, perhaps it is no surprise he spoke up.

The cause of the friction was on the face of it innocuous: a proposed display of the Red Arrows, just like the ones that have taken place at countless events around the UK for decades.

The controversy came from the location. It was in the skies above Gibraltar at an air show on Sept 28 that the red, white and blue smoke from the jets would billow out.

Gibraltar, a few square miles of land hanging off the southern tip of Spain, has long been claimed by Madrid since being ceded to Great Britain in 1713. With the border complexities created by Brexit, those claims were being elevated.

Vice-Adml Sir David Steel, the governor of Gibraltar, fought against the cancellation of the Red Arrows display - PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo/PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

Yet Sir David, leaked diplomatic cables seen by The Telegraph reveal, believed that giving in to Spanish demands and cancelling the display would not be without consequence.

In a message to Hugh Elliott, the UK ambassador to Spain who was receiving Madrids warnings, Sir David noted how the diplomat was walking on hot coals. But there was a plea to hold firm.

I cannot disagree with your submission which is, as ever, balanced and helpful, Sir David wrote in the message sent to Mr Elliott in early September.

All I would add, and I am becoming a broken record on the subject, is that if we back down now we will once again show a weakness that the Spanish will undoubtedly exploit.

The governor of Gibraltar cited past examples, including the cancellation of a visit planned by HMS Queen Elizabeth, the vast Royal Navy aircraft carrier, to make his case.

He wrote: I am also conscious that we have turned off a number of events over the last three years (not least a visit of HMS Queen Elizabeth) just to appease SP [Spanish] sensitivities. In return we have gained very little  just more demands.

The fact that a recent visit from HMS Queen Elizabeth to Gibraltar was called off to appease Madrid has never before been made public.

A visit of HMS Queen Elizabeth to Gibraltar was called off because of diplomatic tensions - Andrew Milligan/PA

Sir David reflected on the Rocks UK connections, noting that after a walk down Gibraltars Main Street one is left in no doubt about British Sovereignty.

His communique ended with no ultimatum, just a gentle nudge. I make no observation on what the right outcome should be, Sir David wrote, noting the pros and cons were carefully balanced. But I add the above simply so that we have all the issues for consideration on the table before a final decision is taken.

The final decision would not be to hold firm. There would be no Red Arrow jets trailing the colours of the Union flag above the Rock. Why? Madrids dark warnings appear to have been the key.

For the timing of the planned display could not have been more precarious for British-Spanish relations and the long-term future of Gibraltar.

The UKs departure from the EU had left the Rock, much like Northern Ireland, facing profound questions about how to keep a land border with another country still in the bloc open.

Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, had struck a new deal to avoid checks at the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland, an EU member, after inheriting a temporary fudge from Boris Johnson.

His ministers were facing a similar challenge in Gibraltar. How to let the 30,000 people who cross the Gibraltar-Spain border every day, many for work, to keep doing so in the aftermath of Brexit?

Boots on the ground

Round after round of negotiations had been inching towards a long-term settlement, one where Gibraltar effectively enters the EU Schengen Zone and checks happen at the airport rather than the border.

But the most sensitive issues  would there be any Spanish boots on the ground on Gibraltar? And if so, where exactly and doing what?  were still to be decided. On Friday, Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, was still locked in talks trying to agree the final details.

Added on top was the intense political instability in Spain created by an election on July 23 that left no clear winner and Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish prime minister, battling to retain power.

Months of coalition talks would follow. The Red Arrows display was due on the day that the Spanish Parliament was set to endorse a newly proposed government. In the end, one would not be fully formed until Nov 16.

And so it fell to senior officials in Spains foreign ministry, rather than ministers selected from elected politicians, to press home their disapproval once they became aware of the plans.

In three calls in the space of two days, a senior Spanish official spelt out to Mr Elliott just how opposed Madrid was to a Red Arrows fly-by above Gibraltar.

Notes on the first two conversations written up by the political section of the British Embassy in Madrid capture the female officials stern message, one of firm warning.

Spain was "deeply opposed" to the Red Arrows trailing the colours of the Union flag over the Rock - Cpl Phil Dye/Royal Air Force/CMA

The Spanish official said that Spain considered the display unnecessary, unconstructive and provocative, according to the notes. This was not the time to undertake this sort of activity.

Another line in the notes read: When Hugh underlined that this was an air show, not intended for provocation or demonstration, her riposte was that the two were not mutually exclusive.

What would happen if the UK went ahead? The political team in the British embassy in Spain was not certain, but a reaction of some form was a distinct possibility.

One part read: It remains to be seen whether Spain responds more strongly, potentially by cancelling it, or by making a formal request of use for the Red Arrows not to perform in Gibraltar. But it is clear that Spain is deeply opposed to the activity.

The third call did not improve the situation. In fact, the warnings were more explicit, as Mr Elliott himself recounted in a communique back to the Foreign Office.

Spain was refusing to grant the Red Arrows a Notification of Air Missions, known by its acronym NOTAM, which is the formal approval that allows planes to fly.

Warning of retaliation

Mr Elliott wrote: The rationale was that Spain considered such a visible assertion of UK sovereignty over Gibraltar to be gratuitous and provocative.

The UK position was that no such approval was needed, since the display would be happening largely over British airspace. But Madrid was warning of retaliation if it went ahead.

Summing up the message of the female Spanish official, Mr Elliott wrote: Stressing that she was speaking personally and hypothetically  she noted that if we sought to proceed nonetheless with the display, Spain would consider that a hostile act, would seek to prevent it from happening and would need to consider its response. She anticipated that response would not be mild.

What, exactly, were the consequences being hinted at for this hostile act? Could it mean Madrid pressing for tougher terms in the post-Brexit Gibraltar deal? It is unclear, but certainly British diplomats feared knock-on consequences for the talks.

And how, exactly, would Spain attempt to prevent the flights? Again, the specifics appeared to be left unsaid.

A precarious balance of risks and interests was now being weighed: the need for a Gibraltar agreement, the publicity knock if a display of Britishness was shelved at the demand of the Spanish, the unpredictable fallout if the private row escalated into a public spat.

It was not the first time Mr Elliott had found himself in a tricky spot over Gibraltar. His claims of bullying from Dominic Raab, the then foreign secretary who dressed down the ambassador over fears he was too open to Spanish suggestions of boots on the ground, had made front pages. Mr Raab resigned after an investigation upheld the complaint.

Different tone

In the final lines of his message back to London, Mr Elliott  stationed out in Madrid and tapped into the Spanish Government sentiments  offered advice markedly different in tone to that put forward by Sir David, the governor of Gibraltar.

Sir David wrote: As a personal observation on this issue, I would simply note that of course we have every right to do what we want in Gibraltarian territory and airspace.

That said, there are probably few things more provocative to the Spanish establishment mindset than the prospect of red, white and blue smoke being pumped out by UK military jets off the south coast of Spain (the geography means that this will be very visible from the Spanish mainland), on a day when the Spanish parliament is seeking to approve a new government, and I simply venture the question as to whether doing so is consistent with HMGs [His Majestys Government] strategic interests for Gibraltars future.

The decision, as ever in government business, was not for the diplomats. Advisers advise and ministers decide, as the old Westminster adage goes. But which ministers?

Both James Cleverly, the former foreign secretary, and Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, were briefed on the situation as the hand-wringing continued about what to do.

The fact that the matter was elevated all the way to the Cabinet is a reflection of how seriously Madrids words were being heeded by those paid to smooth out wrinkles in foreign relations.

Did not intervene

But Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, has its own government, one which is democratically elected by the 30,000-odd residents and holds London at arms length.

The official line from Whitehall is that Mr Cleverly and Mr Shapps ultimately did not need to intervene, since ministers in Gibraltar made the call and cancelled the display.

If Spanish demands could force a back-tracking in something as incidental as an air display, could it also be leading to more significant, long-term concessions around the negotiation table? That is the question now hanging with a deal finally said to be close.

The UK Foreign Office, Spanish foreign ministry, Mr Elliott and Sir David declined to comment when approached by The Telegraph. A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: As part of operational planning, a variety of potential display dates and locations are considered by the RAF. A wide range of factors influence whether these are able to proceed.

The change in the Gibraltar Air Show schedule, when it came, was offset by the reciprocal cancellation of a Red Arrows appearance in Menorca, one of Spains Balearic islands.

An unnamed defence source framed the news  two Red Arrow displays cancelled, one in Gibraltar and one in Spain  as somehow a UK win. They cant have their paella and eat it, the source declared with relish.

These leaked cables reveal a starker reality: That it was anything but a British victory.
Unpaid carers should be thanked and supported, not fined, for the selfless work they do every day. Photograph: Alamy

I have worked in benefits for more years than I care to admit, although for local authorities rather than the Department for Work and Pensions. The news about the persecution of carers allowance claimants is not surprising (Calls to end persecution of carers over UK benefits rule breaches, 9 April).

The benefit regulations are complex and, all too often, claimants facing recovery action or prosecution by the DWP are unable to either afford or access proper legal advice.

The first stage of any overpayment action should be for the claimant to seek a mandatory review of the DWPs decision. However, and I speak from personal experience, these are often of poor quality and the DWP has set targets for the percentage of these that should be refused.

If the mandatory review is refused, the claimants should then go to the first-tier tribunal, where a judge will then look at the DWPs case. At this point, it is all too common for the DWP case to collapse.

Instead, what is happening is that the DWP is taking claimants to court with alleged overpayments that have not been subject to proper scrutiny, and ignoring requests from judges to quantify the amount overpaid, as your report points out (DWP are the real criminals: carer in tatters after brutal fraud prosecution, 7 April).

The obvious safeguard is for the DWP to not be allowed to bring a criminal prosecution until the alleged benefit overpayment has been taken to the first-tier tribunal. May I suggest that DWP prosecutions may well turn out to be the next Post Office scandal.

Name and address supplied

 As a social security tribunal judge, I can confirm that there are many cases of honest, diligent carers claiming carers allowance at 81.90 per week as is their right, who are caught out by the complex and punitive rules about how much you can earn while claiming (Carers threatened with prosecution over minor breaches of UK benefit rules, 7 April).

You only have to earn a few pence above the 151 weekly earnings limit to forfeit that whole weeks carers allowance. Complex rules decide what counts as earnings and what does not. Equally complex rules determine how your earnings are averaged out when they fluctuate. Even a very diligent claimant can get caught out and made to face a bill, sometimes years later, sometimes of thousands of pounds. Its been the same for decades.

Luckily, tribunals can often correct the situation where the DWP has misapplied rules about averaging wages, or what counts as earnings. In a recent case, one carer had a 3 meal allowance included in his earnings  barely enough to buy a cup of coffee  which appeared to take him over the earnings limit. Fortunately, he was rescued from a four-figure overpayment debt by a rule that disregards such a meal allowance when calculating earnings. The DWP had not spotted this. But for that rule, he could have been asked to pay back several thousand pounds.

Carers unquestioningly perform vital and unremunerated work to enable others who live with illness or disability. The rules on working while on carers allowance need an overhaul to create a respectful and rewarding benefit regime and remove this punitive hostile environment.

Name and address supplied

 The treatment of unpaid carers by the DWP is cruel and inexcusable. By running social care into the ground through underinvestment, the government has created conditions that force so many carers into poverty. Many have had to give up their jobs to look after loved ones, plugging the gaps left by social care.

Carers allowance is already insultingly low. Whats more, to claim it you need to be caring for a minimum of 35 hours and earning less than 151 a week. That leaves very little opportunity for paid employment, essentially locking claimants out of work or, as in the cases you highlight, penalising them when they do.

Meanwhile, the government is treating unpaid carers like a vast pool of cheap labour, expecting them to perform the work that the government doesnt want to pay for. To then pursue through the courts those who have been overpaid relatively small amounts, often because of an honest mistake, is staggering in its heartlessness.

Unpaid carers should be thanked and supported, not fined, for the selfless work they do every day. Instead of prosecuting carers, the government should be spending its time overhauling carers allowance by changing its archaic rules on earnings and working hours. Millions of hard-pressed carers deserve nothing less.

Dominic Carter

Director of policy and public affairs, Carers Trust

 The situation of carers being taken to court sounds frighteningly similar to the Post Office scandal. I hope the shameful case of Vivienne Groom will be the turning point, with the DWP declared dysfunctional and morally bankrupt.

Ten years ago, I spent three months trying to find out why my 93-year-old mothers attendance allowance (at the time in 2013 that state pensions and allowances were decoupled) had been stopped. After seven phone calls speaking to seven different people, all promising to respond (but didnt), it was only resolved when someone in the pensions section followed it up. I then received a call from the benefits team  a nasty call that is seared on my soul. The caller was aggressive and rude, made it clear she was only ringing to check we were real people, not fraudsters, and only at the end grudgingly admitted a mistake. The 900 arrears were repaid the next month, and a letter of apology sent to my mother. I, however, was left indelibly bruised.

There is a rot in the benefits system. Not just incompetence, but a punitive and uncaring system. Its more than ironic that they are punishing carers themselves.

Susan Treagus

Manchester

 I was shocked to read of the persecution that unpaid carers are suffering at the hands of the DWP for honest breaches of the benefits rules. Unpaid carers are saving the NHS care system billions of pounds. It is not in dispute that the vast majority of carers allowance mistakes are not fraudulent. Instead of prosecuting carers for minor infractions, which have been allowed to accumulate into huge debts, is there not a case for allowing long-term carers to claim their state pension entitlements ahead of retirement age as part of a radical overhaul of this punitive system?

Nick Fleischmann

Sheffield

 Someone has to care for at least 35 hours per week in order to qualify for the carers allowance of 81.90 per week. That is 2.34 per hour. What does this say about the value we as a society place on the hard work of carers?

Jan Pahl

Canterbury

 Have an opinion on anything youve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.
People protest outside the office of hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman in New York on 4 January 2024. Photograph: Michael M Santiago/Getty Images

Last years supreme court decision to ban affirmative action in college and university admissions was a watershed moment for far-right conservative activists and groups, who have used the momentum to target not only public institutions, but also private organizations that aim to aid women and people of color.

Many of the targeted groups are being sued by complainants who allege that they have been discriminated against because they do not fit diversity requirements. In some cases, the would-be applicants are engaging in presumptive suing  alleging the organizations have engaged in discriminatory behavior without even applying.

Since the ruling, some companies, such as Zoom, Lyft and Meta have dismantled their own efforts to promote and increase diversity willingly, without any specific legal spur. But several other entities have been forced to do so following legal challenges.



Fearless Fund

Fearless Fund, which is based in Atlanta, became the countrys first VC firm founded by women of color when it launched in 2019. It awards pre-seed, seed-level or series A financing grants to Black women who own small businesses. (A 2023 study by McKinsey and Company found that Black and Latino women entrepreneurs received 0.1% of venture capital funds.) Over the past four years, in partnership with corporations, Fearless Fund supplied business owners $3.7m in grants.

The American Alliance for Equal Rights (AAER), a non-profit founded, according to its website, specifically to challenge distinctions made on the basis of race and ethnicity in federal and state courts, sued Fearless Fund in August 2023, shortly after the supreme court decision. The lawsuit argues that Fearless Fund is violating the Civil Rights Act of 1866, the first civil rights bill in US history, which bars racial bias in private contracts and became an early template of the 14th amendment. As a result of the lawsuit, a judicial panel has blocked the fund from continuing its grant program. All but two of the funds backers have withdrawn support.

Edward Blum, who is white and one of the founders of the AAER, was also instrumental in the initial supreme court decision to repeal affirmative action, as his group, Students for Fair Admissions, brought forward that suit.

Hello Alice



Last August, Hello Alice, an online platform which offers grants to Black small-business owners, was sued by America First Legal (AFL), a far-right non-profit formed by the former senior Trump White House adviser Stephen Miller. The lawsuit alleges that Hello Alices grant program is unconstitutional, and that it should be accessible to all business owners regardless of race.

Founded in 2022 by Elizabeth Gore and Carolyn Rodz, both of whom are white, Hello Alices grants help Black people across the country purchase commercial vehicles. Nathan Roberts, a white Ohio resident who owns Freedom Truck Dispatch, a trucking dispatch company, alleged that he experienced reverse discrimination because he was ineligible for the grants.

Roberts filed a lawsuit in August 2023 which argues that he is suffering past and future injury in fact because he was barred from applying for this grant.

We think this case is meritless and sets the nation, and small businesses, back, Hello Alice executives said in a joint statement. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) responded in February by filing an amicus brief with Hello Alice in order to give additional information relating to the case.

Empowering employers to take voluntary measures to remedy past discrimination remains an important component of our nations progression toward equal employment opportunity, the brief reads. This court should take care not to hinder such efforts.

Nascar



AFL also targeted Nascar for the organizations diversity driver development program, diversity pit crew development program, and the Nascar diversity internship program, arguing that the programs violate the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the countrys benchmark civil rights legislation, which prohibits discrimination based on race and sex and outlawed segregation.

Nascar had predicted the potential for such a lawsuit and preemptively walked back its programs, widening it to applicants of diverse backgrounds and experiences, instead of specifically calling for top minority and female applicants as it had previously. The AFLs letter to the EEOC alleged that the change still perpetuated discrimination.

Nascars and Rev Racings commitment to race and sex-based hiring has not wavered  the website changes described above seem to have been designed only to conceal their ongoing, deliberate, and illegal discrimination against white, male Americans, the complaint, which is currently pending, alleged.

Morrison Foerster



Morrison Foerster, a California-based international law firm, changed the eligibility for the Keith Wetmore Fellowship for Excellence, Diversity, and Inclusion after AAER filed a lawsuit alleging in August of 2023 that the program was unlawfully discriminatory.

Initially, the program was only eligible for 1L students who are members of historically underrepresented groups in the legal industry. Now, the 12-year-old program seeks students with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.

Wisconsin Bar



Late last year, a white member of the state bar of Wisconsin filed a complaint against the association alleging that its summer hiring program, the diversity clerkship program, was discriminatory. The program initially required that applicants be members of minority groups. However, following the supreme courts affirmative action decision, before the complaint, the eligibility requirements were changed to include students with backgrounds that have been historically excluded from the legal field. Without defining which groups count as historically excluded, applicants could be from non-traditional backgrounds regardless of their race.

Despite the programs race-neutral wording, the plaintiff still alleges that the bars program is unconstitutional in that it implicitly prioritizes minority groups. The complaint also alleges that the program constitutes compelled speech and compelled freedom of association, in violation of the first amendment, a common tactic by suits against DEI initiatives.

Last Friday, the Wisconsin Bar and the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty reached a partial settlement. Under the terms, beginning this September, the program will be open to all first-year law students attending either Marquette University Law School or the University of Wisconsin Law School who are in good standing. Specifically, the bar is prevented from stating, suggesting or insinuating in its materials that only law students from diverse backgrounds, with backgrounds that have been historically excluded from the legal field, or who have been socially disadvantaged are eligible.

The partial settlement also created a definition for the state bar to use for diversity as it applies to the program. Per the definition in the partial settlement, diversity means including people with differing characteristics, beliefs, experiences, interests, and viewpoints.

National Museum of the American Latino



In February, AAER filed a complaint and motion for a preliminary injunction against Jorge Zamanillo, the director of the National Museum of the American Latino. The complaint alleges that the museums internship program, which seeks to provide Latino undergraduates with non-curatorial art museum careers, is unconstitutional.

Following a settlement agreement in March, the programs website now says that the internship is equally open to students of all races and ethnicities, without preference or restriction based on race or ethnicity. The museum does not use racial or ethnic classifications or preferences in selecting awardees for the undergraduate internship.

George Floyd Memorial scholarship



North Central University, in Minneapolis, is being accused of violating the Civil Rights Act in a federal complaint filed by Legal Insurrection Foundation, a far-right advocacy organization.

To be eligible for the scholarship, which is named after George Floyd, whose murder at the hands of police sparked international protests in 2020, applicants must be a student who is Black or African American, that is, a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa.

According to the complaint, which is pending, the colleges George Floyd Memorial scholarship engages in invidious discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin.
Police are investigating and have established crime scenes near the school and at the police station. Photograph: Aaron Bunch/AAP

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after two stabbings, one of which resulted in the death of another teenager, near a school in western Sydney on Friday.

Emergency services responded to reports that two teenagers had been stabbed near a school on Power Street in Doonside at about 3.40pm on Friday.

What we know at this stage is that a bus has gone to the area, to a bus stop, a number of youths have got off that bus, a melee has taken place with some other youths said Superintendent Paul Glinn, Blacktown police area command.

Subsequently, an 18-year-old and 19-year-old youth from the local Doonside area sustained significant injuries.

Glinn said someone picked up the two boys, intending to drive them to Blacktown hospital, but they ended up going to Blacktown police station.

The 18 year-old died at the scene, while the 19-year-old was taken to Westmead Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

Attempts were made to treat the 18-year-old, but sadly that person succumbed to their injuries outside the police station, he said.

Glinn said that he believed the 19-year-old was currently in a satisfactory condition.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested near the Doonside location overnight and taken to Mount Druitt Police Station, where he was charged with murder.

The boy was refused bail to appear at a childrens court on Saturday.

Police are investigating and have established crime scenes near the school and at the police station. They are appealing for anyone with footage of the incident or surrounding areas to come forward to police; as well as anyone who witnessed the incident or people acting unusually in the area.

Glinn said that as the investigation was ongoing and a charge had been laid, he could not divulge details of the alleged crime.

He would not confirm whether the attack was random or targeted, if the teenagers were known to each other or if they had any affiliations with gangs, though he said that was something that police would look into.

One of the things that we will look at is whether there is any affiliation with any groups, he said.

Glinn appeared to confirm that the two victims were brothers, answering a question from media about whether he had had a chance to chat to the family of the brothers.

Yeah, there has been some interaction, he said. Obviously they have a priority at the moment which anyone can understand: losing a son and having another one seriously injured is obviously the priority and grieving. But yeah, there has been, engagement with them and that will continue in coming days.

Glinn sought to reassure the community, saying that while the event was clearly alarming, it was not something that happened regularly and police would be deploying significant policing resources, in and around the area over coming days and weeks.

People should be able to get on and off a bus without these types of incidents occurring, he said. With some enforcement with high visibility policing and some other support over coming days and weeks I hope that the community can have confidence to go about their business in a safe way.
BP shares rose on Friday (REUTERS / Reuters)

BP was one of the top risers on Friday morning, up as much as 2.8% to their highest level since October, after Reuters reported that Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) had considered launching a takeover bid for the UK firm.

The United Arab Emirates state-owned oil company has spoken directly to BP in recent months, and sought advice from investment banks on a potential deal, according to sources.

However, deliberations did not get any further than preliminary discussions after Adnoc said BP was not the right fit for its strategy. The company was also concerned about the politics of any bid.

The Emirati company considered all options when looking at BP, including buying a big stake, a person familiar with the matter said.

Read more: UK economy grows slightly in February

Adnoc has been pursuing a series of European assets. Last year it made a non-binding bid of around 11.3bn (9.6bn, 12bn) to acquire German plastics and chemicals maker Covestro. It has also been in talks with Austrias OMV to create a chemicals group with combined annual sales of more than $20bn (16bn).

In December last year, it also agreed to buy European chemical producer OCI's stake in ammonia and urea producer Fertiglobe for $3.6bn.

Adnoc currently supports BPs hydrogen production project in Teesside, while last year the firms joined forces on a $2bn venture to buy 50% of Israeli gas company NewMed. But this deal was suspended in March due to the conflict in Gaza.

It comes as British companies have attracted a number of foreign takeovers due to depressed values on Londons stock market.

Gold prices surged to fresh highs on Friday, with the safe-haven asset breaching the $2,400 threshold for the first time. This was due to a potential escalation in the tensions between Israel and Iran.

Meanwhile, silver traded at the highest since February 2021. Gold has surged higher this year, dragging silver along with it as central banks including Chinas stepped up purchases of the precious metal.

It comes as Israel is preparing for an expected assault from Iran within days. This is in retaliation for its strike on the countrys diplomatic compound in Syria last week, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing a person familiar with the matter.

Ricardo Evangelista, senior analyst at ActivTrades, said: As rhetoric between the two adversarial powers grows increasingly belligerent, the allure of haven assets intensifies, with investors bracing for a conflict fraught with significant geopolitical and economic ramifications."

The ascent of gold prices is especially noteworthy against the backdrop of a strengthening dollar and the uptick in treasury yields, spurred by US consumer and producer prices surpassing expectations and consequently delaying the anticipated timing of the Federal Reserve's inaugural rate cut from June to November.

He added: Given these prevailing conditions, the trajectory for gold prices appears poised for further upside.

Platinum and palladium also advanced as the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index traded near the highest level since November.

Samsung slipped 0.5% overnight as it prepares to unveil a $44bn investment in US chipmaking as soon as next week.

The worlds largest chipmaker is set to outline the project in Texas alongside commerce secretary Gina Raimondo, Bloomberg has reported.

However, the timing and details of the announcement could still change before they are finalised, people familiar with the matter said.

Samsung has reportedly secured more than $6bn of government grants, with the investment expected to total $44bn over multiple years.

It comes as Joe Bidens administration aims to challenge the technological rise of China, and revitalise US chipmaking after decades of production shifting to Asia.

Apple (AAPL)

Apple rose 4% in New York last night after news that it is planning a Mac line overhaul with AI-focused M4 chips

The company is aiming to release the updated computers later this year and early 2025, including new iMacs, a low-end 14-inch MacBook Pro, high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, and Mac minis.

Bloomberg reported that Apple is planning to highlight the AI processing capabilities of the new chips, and how they'll integrate with the next version of macOS.

Meanwhile, according to JP Morgan, the firm is is drawing interest from hedge fund investors seeing potential for AI-linked upgrades to its iPhones.

Hedge fund investors are increasingly warming up to the opportunity of the AI upgrade cycle, although questions remain around whether that will kick in with iPhones to be introduced later this year or in 2025, analysts led by Samik Chatterjee wrote in a research note Thursday.

Chatterjee added: "Hedge funds are eyeing the headwinds to create more tactical entry point ahead of the AI upgrade cycle.

It comes as Apple's shares have fallen as much as 13% this year thanks to weak sales in China.

Watch: JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, and Citigroup report earnings

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Beijing has denied all allegations of meddling in Canadian affairs and said Trudeau had slandered China during the inquiry hearing. Photograph: Reuters

Canadas spy agency is under pressure after Justin Trudeau and his closest advisers say they were never made aware of a report that Beijing clandestinely and deceptively interfered in both the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

Canada is in the midst of a contentious public inquiry examining and assessing foreign interference by China, Russia, and other foreign states and non-state actors, and this week the prime minister, Justin Trudeau, testified under oath about the steps his government took to respond to the threat of meddling. In his appearance, which lasted nearly four hours, Trudeau insisted that despite the efforts from hostile states, previous federal elections held in their integrity.

[The elections] were decided by Canadians, Trudeau said.

But he cast doubt on the reliability of information collected by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), which has underpinned media reporting about Beijings alleged meddling efforts. Trudeau also said that information in a 2023 briefing note  which said that Chinas interference efforts were pragmatic in nature and focused primarily in supporting those with a Beijing stance or were neutral on issues of interest to the Chinese government  was never relayed to him or his staff.

Related: China meddled in past two Canada elections, says Justin Trudeau

His remarks contrasted with testimony from the CSIS director, David Vigneault, who told the commission that the warnings in the agencys reports  including advice that the government take decisive action and impose consequences on perpetrators  were passed on to the prime ministers inner circle.

The CSIS also warned that foreign interference in Canada will persist until it is viewed as an existential threat to the countrys democracy and governments respond forcefully.

But neither key staffers, nor the prime minister himself, recalled those warnings.

Those discrepancies prompted the head of the CSIS to be recalled to testify once again before the commission.

On Friday, Vigneault told commission lawyers that while he might not have mentioned certain points on briefing notes, he conveyed those warnings to the government on other occasions, including the idea that hostile nations view election meddling as a low risk, high reward undertaking.

Vigneault added that his agencys method for briefing officials was not just one method and one person to ensure key figures were brought up to speed.

Speaking to reporters after his testimony, the prime minister deepened the rift between his government and the spy agency over the accuracy of CSIS reports by suggesting no government, no leader should simply be a passive receiver of information and intelligence.

We have a role to play in asking questions, on thinking critically  encouraging further work on questioning sources and pulling out contradictions, he said. That actually is part and parcel of the work that we all need to do to make sure that everything is done to keep Canadians safe.

Among the issues was reports that the CSIS had warned the Liberal party about possible Chinese interference in the nomination of Han Dong in Toronto.

I didnt feel there was sufficient or sufficiently credible information that would justify this very significant step as to remove a candidate, Trudeau said.

The prime minister himself has come under fire from political opponents after telling the commission he didnt read briefing notes, instead preferring to receive key information in person or over a secure line from his national security adviser or top intelligence officials, including Vigneault.

When there is actually a risk of manipulation by hostile and malicious actors like, say, a communist regime in Beijing, he cant even take the responsibility of reading his briefing notes, said the Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre.

Beijing has previously denied all allegations of meddling in Canadian affairs and a spokesperson for the embassy said Trudeau had slandered China during the inquiry hearing.

The commission, overseen by Quebec appeals court judge Marie-Josee Hogue, will complete an initial report by 3 May and deliver its final report by the end of 2024.
Donald Trump attends a joint press conference with the speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday. Photograph: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Facing the press alongside the House speaker, fellow Republican Mike Johnson, Donald Trump bragged: We broke Roe v Wade.

The former president made the stark admission about his dominant role in attacks on abortion rights at the end of a week in which the rightwing Arizona state supreme court ruled that an 1864 law imposing a near-total ban could go back into effect.

Abortion rights were removed at the federal level in 2022 when a US supreme court to which Trump appointed three justices overturned Roe, which had stood since 1973. The issue has fueled Democratic wins at the ballot box ever since. This week, the Arizona ruling sent Republicans scrambling to minimise damage.

Related: Shame! Shame!: Arizona Republican leaders block effort to repeal abortion ban

Trump repeated his contention that the issue should rest with the states and there is no need for a national ban, a demand of the USs political right. But he could not resist a boast on which his opponents are sure to seize.

We broke Roe v Wade, Trump said. Nobody thought was possible. We gave it back to the states and the states are working very brilliantly, in some cases conservative, in some cases not conservative, but theyre working. And its working the way its supposed to.

Every  real legal scholar wanted to have it go back to the states, Trump claimed without offering evidence. Democrat, Republican, liberal, conservative. And we were able to do that  and now the states are working their way through it.

And youre gonna, youre having some very, very beautiful harmony, to be honest with you. You have, well, you have some cases like Arizona that went back to like 1864 or something like that. And a judge made a ruling, but thats going to be changed by government. Theyre going to be changing that. I disagree with that.

At the time of Trumps remarks, the vice-president, Kamala Harris, was speaking in Arizona, hammering home Democratic attacks on Republican threats to reproductive rights. Her key message: Trump is to blame.

And just minutes ago, standing beside Speaker Johnson, Donald Trump just said the collection of state bans is, quote: working the way it is supposed to, Harris said. And as much harm as he has already caused, a second Trump term would be even worse.

Trump and Johnson appeared together at a time of intense legal jeopardy for the former president and great political danger for the House speaker that meant their intended message  a supposed need to focus on the canard of election integrity  seemed guaranteed to be drowned out.

In New York on Monday, Trump will face trial on 34 of 88 pending criminal charges. The first ever criminal trial involving a former president will concern hush-money payments to an adult film star who claimed an affair.

In Washington, Johnson must manage Congress with a tiny majority under pressure from an unruly Republican House caucus dominated by the pro-Trump right. The Georgia extremist Marjorie Taylor Greene has filed a motion to remove him.

Opening the press conference at his Mar-a-Lago home, Trump exhibited his signature rhetoric on immigration, increasingly dehumanizing and vicious.

Johnson said Republicans would seek to introduce legislation to require proof of citizenship to vote, claiming that if hundreds of thousands of migrants cast votes, it could affect the result of the elections.

In reality, non-citizens voting is not even close to a problem.

Some cities allow non-citizens to vote in municipal and non-federal polls. But non-citizen voting in federal elections is already illegal under a 1996 law. Offenders can be fined and jailed for up to a year. Deportation is possible.

The Bipartisan Policy Center points to research by groups on the right and left which says non-citizen voting is exceptionally rare, saying: Any instance of illegally cast ballots by non-citizens has been investigated by the appropriate authorities, and there is no evidence that these votes  or any other instances of voter fraud  have been significant enough to impact any elections outcome.

Nonetheless, Johnson has long shown willingness to back Trumps claims about elections regardless of reality, playing a key role in supporting the former presidents attempts to overturn his defeat by Joe Biden in 2020.

In a recent memoir, the anti-Trump Republican Liz Cheney said Johnson played bait-and-switch with colleagues to get them to support his legal efforts to have key state results thrown out while misrepresenting himself as a constitutional lawyer.

Johnson said Cheney was not presenting an accurate portrayal. His legal work failed but even after the deadly January 6 attack on Congress by Trump supporters in early 2021, he was among 147 Republicans who voted to object to results in Pennsylvania and Arizona.

On Friday, a statement released by the Trump campaign said Johnson had agreed to hold a series of public committee hearings over the next two months  in advance of potential legislation to further safeguard our elections from interference.

Subjects of supposed concern included mail-in voting processes and mail-ballot handling, voter registration list maintenance and how states will  prevent illegal immigrants and noncitizens from voting in the 2024 presidential election; and general preparations for Trumps rematch with Biden.

Reporters raised other issues that have roiled Republican politics. Earlier, in Washington, Johnson oversaw passage of a bill to reauthorise the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, or Fisa, including a key measure that allows for warrantless surveillance of American citizens. Trump and allies opposed the renewal, arising from his complaints about investigations of Russian election interference on his behalf in the 2016 race that sent him to the White House.

Asked about the House bill, Trump said he still didnt like Fisa and repeated his complaints about 2016. Johnson nodded behind him.

Trump also opposes new aid for Ukraine, passed by the Senate but held up in the House. Johnson has said he wants to pass aid for Ukraine  but that could cause his downfall.

At Mar-a-Lago, Trump kept the subject at arms length, verbally abusing Biden and claiming conflicts around the world would not have happened on his watch.

He also castigated those prosecuting him criminally, including in the hush-money trial due to start in New York on Monday, over which he also complained about the judge. He was, he said, absolutely willing to testify in his own defence.
Experts warn the death toll is likely to rise as the disease flourishes in unvaccinated animals and Vietnam's dog meat trade.

Vietnam is experiencing a dramatic surge in rabies, with a 160 per cent jump in human fatalities recorded so far this year.

Since January, 29 people have died from the virus in 16 provinces across the southeast Asian country, compared to 11 fatalities in the first three months of 2023, according to government figures.

Experts have warned its a death toll which will likely mount as the disease flourishes in unvaccinated animals and Vietnams dog meat trade.

Unfortunately, we can expect an increasing number of people to die of rabies in 2024, in line with the dramatic, more than two-fold rise in animal rabies in 2023, a spokesperson for the World Health Organizations Vietnam office told the Telegraph.

The time lag is because the incubation period for rabies (between the bite and the appearance of symptoms) is typically two to three months but may be up to one year, so people who were infected in 2023 may only become ill this year.

The most recent death, reported on March 27, is a case in point. The patient was bitten on their left thumb in October 2023, a wound which bled a little. The individual washed it with water and applied garlic, but didnt seek any specialist treatment. They died five days after their symptoms first emerged.

Rabies predominantly jumps to people via dog bites or deep scratches

Rabies, a vaccine-preventable viral disease that predominantly jumps to people via dog bites or deep scratches, attacks the central nervous system. Early symptoms include a fever or unexplained tingling near the bite, but once these emerge the outcome is almost always fatal.

There are two main forms of disease. Furious rabies kills people via cardio-respiratory arrest within days, after triggering hallucinations, hyperactivity, loss of coordination and fear of water or fresh air.

By contrast paralytic rabies, responsible for roughly 20 per cent of cases, gradually immobilises a persons muscles until they fall into a deadly coma.

But these are wholly preventable outcomes, with several tools available to halt the virus before it hits the central nervous system. Vaccines can be given both before and after exposure, while treatments including immunoglobulin and monoclonal antibodies are prescribed in severe cases.

Yet in Vietnam, access to these tools is limited in the worst hit regions.

The high-risk areas for rabies are usually in remote areas where  people bitten by dogs also have difficulties getting vaccines, said Pawin Padungtod, a senior technical coordinator at the Food and Agriculture Organisation. They have to travel very far and cannot afford the cost for both travelling and the vaccine.

He added that, despite government efforts, it is often in these areas where dog vaccinations  long considered the best prevention strategy  have faltered.

Activists have warned that dog and cat meat trade is worsening the outlook for the spread of rabies

Nationwide, rabies vaccination rates in cats and dogs stood at 58 per cent in 2023, well below the 70 per cent required for herd immunity, which prevents disease transmission. But in some places, coverage has fallen to as low as 10 per cent.

Just 19 cities and provinces have implemented vaccination drives so far this year, immunising some 550,000 dogs and cats, according to reports.

Vaccinating dogs, including puppies, is the most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in people because it stops the transmission at its source, the WHO said. In Vietnam, low dog vaccination rates and poor dog management are responsible for the rabies outbreak.

Yet activists have warned that dog and cat meat trade  which is prominent in Vietnam  is only worsening the outlook.

According to estimates from the anti-dog trade Humane Society International (HSI), five million dogs and one million cats are caught, stolen, trafficked and slaughtered in Vietnam each year.

[The trade] encourages this mass production of dogs who arent vaccinated, said Lola Webber, director of HSIs Ending Dog Meat campaign.

You have this high turnover of dogs, with low vaccination coverage and a population instability  because dogs are constantly being removed, new puppies brought into the vacuum, and dogs transferred nationwide.

Theres a growing body of evidence that shows a higher rate of rabies positive dogs also being slaughtered and sold in public markets, she added. One study found it was as high as 16.4 per cent in samples in Hanoi, which is just huge.

A dog farm involved in the trade and transport of Vietnam's meat trade

Dr Karanvir Kukreja, head of campaigns in southeast Asia for Four Paws International, said: There is a real danger that we will see these spikes again and again if the trade is not addressed. The dog and cat meat trade is not the only factor in rabies in Vietnam, but must be considered as a key risk to Vietnams plans to eradicate rabies.

In response to the current outbreak, the countrys prime minister last month asked localities to establish task forces to tackle the virus and expand vaccination coverage. But limited funds and supplies are hampering efforts.

The big challenges, particularly at the local level, are to prioritise and increase resources for managing dog populations, vaccinating dogs and ensuring equitable access to post-exposure prophylaxis for people bitten by dogs, especially in underserved communities, the WHO said.

Vietnams surge comes as nearby Timor-Leste  which is currently classified as rabies-free  reported its first human death from the disease. An individual in Oecusse, an enclave of the country surrounded by Indonesia, was bitten in December and died two days after going to a health centre in March.

A further 29 suspected cases are under investigation, according to a WHO situation report, which classifies the national risk as high.

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VIENTIANE, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith has extended best wishes to people from all walks of life across the country, as well as Lao expatriates abroad and foreign expatriates in Laos, on the occasion of the Lao New Year.

The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar and also a time of endless fun for the Laotians, which will be celebrated from April 14 to 16.

Thongloun praised the spirit of national ownership, solidarity and the efforts the entire Lao people have upheld and dedicated to implementing the policies and measures of the Party and government over the past year, Lao national TV reported on Friday.

He wished everyone happiness and good health and hoped that they would welcome the new year joyfully, with good fortune, and in safety.

In a year when Laos is chairing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and rolling out the Visit Laos Year program, Thongloun called for people from all walks of life to fully play their part in being good hosts, maintain social security and order, and do everything possible to make a good impression on foreign leaders and delegates, as well as visiting businesspeople and tourists. 
Irish premier Simon Harris has said that the point at which Ireland and Spain can recognise the State of Palestine is coming much closer.

He made the comments following a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at Government Buildings in Dublin on Friday afternoon.

The pair discussed the recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Mr Harris saying that Ireland would move with Spain and other EU countries when the time is right.

On Tuesday, Irish deputy premier Micheal Martin said he is bringing a formal proposal to the Government after working with other countries on a joint declaration to formally recognise Palestinian statehood.

It is the second time Mr Harris and Mr Sanchez have met this week, after the Taoiseach travelled to Brussels on Thursday.

I want this afternoon to pay tribute to all those working so hard to try to bring about an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages, including through the talks in Cairo, facilitated by the US, Qatar and Egypt, Mr Harris said.

At last months meeting of the European Council, Ireland and Spain, together with Malta and Slovenia, said that we were ready to do so when the conditions are right.

Let me this evening say our assessment is that that point is coming much closer and we would like to move together in doing so.

The people of Palestine have long sought the dignity of their own country and sovereignty.

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (Brian Lawless/PA)

A home that like Ireland and Spain can take its place amongst the nations of the Earth.

When we move forward, we would like to do so with as many others as possible to lend weight to the decision and to send the strongest message.

The people of Israel deserve a secure and peaceful future. So do the people of Palestine. Equal sovereignty, equal respect, in a region where people of all faiths and all traditions live together in peace.

Mr Harris also said it was possible to condemn the Hamas attack on October 7 and call for the unconditional release of the remaining hostages, and to also want to see a two-state political solution.

This week, Israels ambassador to Ireland Dana Erlich claimed that the Irish Governments push to recognise Palestinian statehood is rewarding terrorism.

Its entirely possible to call out the horrors that the State of Israel suffered at the hands of Hamas whilst also saying that there must now be an immediate cessation of violence, Mr Harris said.

The scenes that were seeing in Gaza in terms of hunger, thirst, mutilation, death of innocent children, women, men, the destruction of so much civilian infrastructure, hospitals, schools, homes, has to stop.

The only way forward here is for a political peace process that brings about the two-state solution for which Ireland has been so long committed, as I know Spain has as well.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez speaks to the media (Brian Lawless/PA)

Speaking after the bi-lateral meeting, Mr Sanchez said he wanted to thank Mr Harris and his predecessor Leo Varadkar for their leadership.

We need leaders who are committed to peace, justice, human rights, and welfare  inside and outside of European boundaries, he added.

We know that the situation in the Gaza Strip is terrible and that we cant see signs of improvement.

He said that Ireland and Spain agree on the urgency for an immediate ceasefire and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza as well as the release of hostages in Gaza.

We also agree that it is vital to reach a political solution that brings peace and stability to the region and that solution must recognise the living together of two states, Palestinian and Israeli states, he added.

We, internationally, will not be able to help Palestine unless we recognise its existence and so we, both countries, have agreed to recognise Palestine as a state publicly, as soon as possible, when conditions are right.

We commit to support the recognition of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations for two reasons.

First to give a message of hope, hope for the millions of people in Gaza, Palestine and in the region who are suffering.

Secondly, because we want to show the world that in Europe, there are people who defend the international rules and order in all cases across the board.

He said he wants to see a peace process that will bring prosperity and peace to the Israelis and Palestinians.

As of now, we cannot outline a timeline, were in uncharted territory but in these circumstances if we continue on the current path it will bring more conflict, more hatred, and more problems so we have to move forward, Mr Sanchez added.
Author Sir Salman Rushdie has described the moment before he was stabbed on stage in New York state in 2022.

The acclaimed novelist, 76, read an excerpt from his upcoming memoir during an interview with American journalist Anderson Cooper for 60 Minutes on CBS, which will air on Sunday.

Reading from his book, Sir Salman said: In the corner of my right eye, the last thing my right eye would ever see.

I saw the man in black running towards me, down the right hand side of the seating area. Black clothes, black face mask.

He was coming in hard and low, a squat missile.

I confess I had sometimes imagined my assassin rising up in some public forum or other and coming for me in just this way.

So my first thought when I saw this murderous shape rushing towards me was So its you. Here you are.

He told Cooper: It felt like something coming out of the distant past and trying to drag me back in time, back into that distant past in order to kill me.

In another teaser, uploaded to the 60 Minutes social media channel, Sir Salman talked about his survival feeling like a miracle.

It feels like a miracle, he said.

And I certainly dont feel that some hand reached down from the skies and guarded me.

But I do think something happened which wasnt supposed to happen.

Sir Salman, who suffered severe, life-changing injuries after the incident, will release the book, titled Knife: Meditations After An Attempted Murder, with Penguin Random House on April 16.

On April 21, he will discuss his book and the attack that left him blind in one eye and with a damaged hand as part of a series of events for the Southbank Centres Spring Literature and Spoken Word Season.

Sir Salman Rushdie after being made a Companion of Honour by the Princess Royal, during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle (Andrew Matthews/PA)

The Indian-born British author, whose writing led to death threats from Iran in the 1980s, was about to deliver a lecture at the Chautauqua Institution when the incident occurred on August 12, 2022.

A man has been charged with attempted murder and assault.

His 1988 book The Satanic Verses has been banned in Iran since it was published as many Muslims view it as blasphemous, and its publication prompted Irans then-leader Ayatollah Khomeini to issue a fatwa calling for his death.

Sir Salman began his writing career in the early 1970s and his 1983 novel Midnights Children, about the birth of India, won the Booker Prize in 1981.

In 1998, the Iranian government withdrew its support for the death sentence and Sir Salman gradually returned to public life, even appearing as himself in the 2001 hit film Bridget Joness Diary.
The shooting dead of 10 Protestant workmen at Kingsmill in Co Armagh in 1976 was an overtly sectarian attack by the IRA, a coroner has ruled.

The atrocity at Kingsmill, which was one of the most notorious of the Troubles, was claimed by a little-known paramilitary group calling itself the South Armagh Republican Action Force.

It was long seen as a front for the IRA, which was supposedly on ceasefire at the time of the sectarian massacre.

Delivering his findings in the long-running inquest, coroner Brian Sherrard heavily criticised the IRA, and its political representatives, for failing to engage with the proceedings.

In remarks that took over four hours to read to Belfast Coroners Court, Mr Sherrard also dismissed as utter fantasy rumours that British Army Captain Robert Nairac infiltrated the IRA and was involved in the Kingsmill massacre.

In a further finding, the coroner said there seemed to have been a reluctance on the part of the Irish State to acknowledge the role of the border in the Kingsmill atrocity, noting that it was at least in part organised in the Republic of Ireland.

Following the conclusion of the inquest, the sole survivor of the shooting Alan Black and relatives of one of the victims called for a public inquiry into the attack, insisting the coronial proceedings had failed to answer their questions.

The coroner dismissed as utter fantasy rumours that British Army Captain Robert Nairac infiltrated the IRA and was involved in the Kingsmill massacre (PA)

They also criticised the coroners failure to name two dead suspects linked to the massacre in his findings.

Were not anywhere near the truth, Mr Black said outside court.

We need a public inquiry. I would call on everyone that has a friend that got hurt to back us in getting this public inquiry because were never going to get the truth without it.

The 10 workmen were murdered on January 5 1976 when their minibus was ambushed by a gang of at least 12 men posing as British soldiers outside the village of Kingsmill on their way home from working at a textiles factory.

Alan Black, centre, was shot multiple times in the attack (Oliver McVeigh/PA)

Those on board were asked their religion, and the only Catholic was ordered to run away.

The killers forced the 11 remaining men to line up outside the van before opening fire.

Mr Black survived despite being shot multiple times.

No-one has ever been convicted of the Kingsmill murders.

The 10 men who died were Robert Chambers, 18; John Bryans, 46; Reginald Chapman, 29; Walter Chapman, 35; Robert Freeburn, 50; Joseph Lemmon, 46; John McConville, 20; James McWhirter, 58; Robert Walker, 46; and Kenneth Worton, 24.

Posters of the men killed in the attack (Niall Carson/PA)

Mr Sherrard dismissed the suggestion that the IRA had not committed the murders as a cynical lie.

The coroner said the glaring omission in the proceedings had been the absence of any evidence from those who caused the attack.

The glaring omission in the inquest was the absence of any disclosure or evidence from those who caused the deaths, he said.

Unlike other legacy inquests which have examined the actions of the state in directly causing death, those responsible for the deaths at Kingsmill have not given an account either personally or through any organisation or any political party.

Numerous calls to assist and provide answers were met with silence.

Accordingly, the inquest did not receive disclosure from any individual concerned in the attack, nor their organisation, nor their political representatives, although expert evidence was given that records may well exist.

Mr Sherrard said there had been no recognition from the perpetrators of the utter wrongness of the Kingsmill attack.

He said: Neither did the inquest hear evidence from the perpetrators regarding matters such as the motivation for the attack, its planning and personnel and its execution.

There has been no recognition by any perpetrator or their organisation or political representatives as to the utter wrongness of the attack which served to end the lives of 10 men and to devastate the lives of untold others.

As Mr Black and bereaved relatives watched from the public gallery of the court in Belfast, Mr Sherrard outlined extensive ballistics evidence linking the weapons used at Kingsmill to a series of attacks carried out by the IRA.

He said the unassailable evidence showed that the guns fired at Kingsmill were the exclusive property of the IRA.

Mr Sherrard rejected the claim that the rogue republican group had carried out the attack as a lie, insisting it was perpetrated by the IRA, which used a cynical ploy to mask its involvement in nakedly sectarian killings.

The Kingsmill memorial wall in Co Armagh (Niall Carson/PA)

The Kingsmill shootings were seen as a retaliatory action in response to loyalist attacks against two Catholic families the day before in which six men were fatally injured.

Mr Sherrard acknowledged the ostensible link to the attacks on the ODowd and Reavey families, but he made clear that planning for the Kingsmill shootings had started long before the targeting of those two families.

Mr Sherrard said rumours around Captain Nairacs involvement in Kingsmill had persisted for many years, but he said he was entirely satisfied that he had no role whatsoever in the atrocity.

The British Army officer was abducted by the IRA while on an undercover operation in a pub in south Armagh in 1977, the year after Kingsmill.

He was then taken to Flurry Bridge in County Louth where he was beaten and shot dead. His remains have never been found.

Coroner Sherrard also dismissed any suggestion that the perpetrators of Kingsmill were not pursued by the authorities in order to protect an IRA informant, describing it as unhelpful conspiracy theorising.

Such an assertion is entirely without foundation, he said.

Two individuals identified as suspects in the Kingsmill attack were later given contentious so-called comfort letters issued by the UK Government to On The Run (OTR) republican suspects during the peace process.

Mr Sherrard insisted that the OTR letters had not impeded the inquest, as he highlighted that no firm evidence connecting the individuals to the shootings had ever emerged.

He also outlined various errors and omissions in the police investigation in the wake of the shooting.

But he insisted those should be viewed in the context of the time and said there should be no attempt to shift the blame away from those responsible for the brutal murders.

The investigation was not perfect, Mr Sherrard said.

But its deficits can be put down to the abnormal security environment of south Armagh in 1976, the extraordinary demands on the police and the murderous competence of those who executed the atrocity and left without a trace.

He said there could be little doubt that the likely suspects were known to the security forces at the time.

But common knowledge as to those with means and motive to carry out this heinous act does not amount to evidence, Mr Sherrard said.
Tiger Woods was battling to make a record 24th consecutive cut in the Masters on another windswept day at Augusta National.

Woods was one of 27 players unable to complete their first rounds on Thursday following a lengthy weather delay, the 15-time major winner covering his first 13 holes in one under par.

Play resumed at 0750 local time (1250BST) on Friday and Woods bogeyed the 14th following a clumsy chip from short of the green before scrambling for par on the 15th after another misjudged approach.

Tiger Woods reacts after missing a putt on the second hole during the second round of the 88th Masters (Ashley Landis/AP)

Woods then left birdie putts on the 16th and 17th short of the hole before dropping a shot on the last after failing to get up and down from a greenside bunker.

That gave the 48-year-old an opening 73 and just 49 minutes to rest, refuel or practise before he got his second round got under way with two pars and a birdie on the third.

Woods bogeyed the par-three fourth after missing the green with his approach and dropped another shot on the fifth after finding a bunker off the tee but made amends in style by chipping in for birdie on the sixth.

Tiger Woods gets back to one over par with chip-in birdie on No. 6. #themasters pic.twitter.com/h4G5CrbgdJ  The Masters (@TheMasters) April 12, 2024

A rollercoaster round continued with a bogey on the seventh and a birdie on the par-five eighth, followed by just a third par of the round on the ninth after hitting his approach into the spectators right of the green.

At one over par Woods was two shots inside the early projected cut line, while playing partner Max Homa found himself in the outright lead after an early stumble from Bryson DeChambeau.

Homa, who had birdied the 16th and 17th on his way to completing an opening 67, birdied the second and fourth in round two to improve to seven under par, with DeChambeau following three pars with a bogey on the fourth.

Max Homa watches his tee shot on the 12th hole during the first round of the 88th Masters (George Walker IV/AP)

Former champion Jordan Spieth was heading for just his second missed cut in 11 Masters appearances after running up a quadruple-bogey nine on the 15th.

Spieth hit his third shot long, chipped back across the green into the water and, after taking a penalty drop, hit his sixth shot over the green once more.

From there the 2015 winner three-putted and, after eventually signing for an opening 79, remained seven over par midway through his second round.

Open champion Brian Harman had fared even worse, dropping seven shots in the last three holes to post an opening 81.
Scotlands First Minister Humza Yousaf has urged the UK Government to rethink its plans to continue to allow arms exports to Israel  warning it risks being complicit in the killing of innocent civilians.

Mr Yousaf said it was difficult to comprehend that the UK Government has not ended the licensing of arms exports to Israel despite the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians, the majority women and children, since last October.

He condemned the attacks by Hamas on October 7 which sparked the conflict but said the response has gone far beyond any legitimate response.

Mr Yousaf wrote letters to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on February 23 and April 3 to raise concerns, and cited an open letter signed by more than 600 legal experts warning of potential UK complicity in grave breaches of international law, including violations of the Genocide Convention.

Humza Yousaf and wife Nadia El-Nakla who is of Palestinian heritage (Jane Barlow/PA Wire)

Lord Ahmad, minister for the Middle East, responded on April 8 and did not agree to end the licensing of arms exports to Israel, according to Mr Yousafs letter.

In his reply to Lord Ahmad on April 12, the First Minster wrote: I welcome the UK Governments stated commitment to International Humanitarian Law, our diplomats contribution to finally achieving a UN Security Council Resolution, and the UKs wider efforts to bring an end to the tragedy befalling the people of the Middle East.

I share with you the grief at the killing of three British aid workers, along with every other innocent man, woman and child killed in Gaza and Israel since Hamass terrorist attacks of October 7 and Israels response, which has gone far beyond any legitimate response.

In spite of everything in your reply, I note you have not agreed to end the licence of arms exports to Israel, which means the UK will continue to arm Israels war in Gaza, that has left tens of thousands dead, the majority reported to be women and children.

Lord Ahmad responded to the First Ministers letter (Jane Barlow/PA)

As I said in my letter of April 3, by continuing to arm Israel, the United Kingdom Government is in danger of being complicit in the killing of innocent civilians.

I find it difficult to comprehend that this continues to be the United Kingdoms position against the backdrop of the ICJ ruling; UN Security Council, General Assembly and Human Rights Council Resolutions; countless UN officials statements about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza; and the recent open letter signed by over 600 legal professionals warning of potential UK complicity in grave breaches of international law, including violations of the Genocide Convention.

If this, alongside the killing of British nationals among at least 35,000 dead  the majority of whom are innocent women and children  is insufficient to change your policy, what more will it take?

The UK Government has been contacted for comment.
Because I'm ready for spring.

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph / Photo Illustration by Sarah Crowder

While April is considered solidly spring, its the month most likely to play with your emotions. Since were all expecting spring with its longer, sunny days, mild temperatures, and vibrant blooms, it's disappointing when thats not the reality. Depending on where you live, you might get an April snow shower, the odd 85-degree day, or nonstop rain. Or you get all of the above in one week.

If youre anything like me, you do your best to ignore the weather and force yourself into spring mentally. I do some spring cleaning, I do some planting, and I transition my cooking from winter to warmer weather dishes. That includes my cocktails, which go from spiced and rich to light and fruity.

On my most recent trip to Trader Joes, a sleek bottle of Sicilian limoncello caught my eye. At just $10.99, how could I say no? After dropping it in my cart, I scoured the seltzer options, seeking inspiration. It came swiftly in the form of TJs lemon and ginger seltzer ($3.29 for four). Made with real juice, I knew it would pair perfectly with the limoncello and a little gin.

Now Im into having a lemon gin refresher after work. Its just sweet enough, just boozy enough, just tart enoughand the bubbles make it fun to drink. The ginger in the seltzer plays nicely with the gin, while the lemon adds zip. The fresh lemon is optional but adds real brightness if you have it handy.

Ill be making this one well beyond April and into summer. Its ideal for the start of barbecue season.

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

How To Make My Trader Joes Lemon Gin Refresher

For one cocktail, youll need:

1 1/2 ounces London dry gin

1/2 ounce Trader Joes Sicilian Limoncello

1 lemon wedge, optional

4 ounces Trader Joes Seltzer Water Flavored With Lemon and Ginger Juice

Fill a glass two-thirds full with ice. Add the gin and limoncello. Squeeze one lemon wedge into the glass and drop it in, if using. Top with the seltzer and give a brief stir. Serve.

Easy Variations

The most obvious swap is the gin. If youre not a fan or dont have any on hand, vodka is a good option. For a low-ABV version, leave out the gin altogether. Note that limoncello does contain alcohol, so excluding the gin does not make it non-alcoholic.

If you like tart drinks, add extra fresh lemon. For a slight flavor twist, use a different variety of Trader Joes seltzer, such as blood orange. Just make sure to use the kind that contains real juice, since their sparkling flavored waters can taste artificial when combined with gin.

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

Read the original article on Simply Recipes.
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we believe in. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

7 best cashback apps to stretch your dollar  and earn rewards on your shopping (RgStudio via Getty Images)

As prices on everything from groceries to housing march higher, you may be looking for passive ways to save a few pennies. Among the many apps out there are those that return cash back and rewards on the things you buy every day, including gas, groceries, shopping, travel and dining out. Some of these apps return a percentage on what you spend  anywhere from 1% to 15% and higher paid out as cash to your bank account or digital wallet  while others redeem your rewards as gift cards or points you can build toward other perks.

Todays best cashback apps are free to download and boast saving you hundreds of dollars in discounts and extras without additional work. Yet with new apps regularly vying for your attention, it can be confusing to know which among them are best for you.

To cut through the chaos, we analyzed 20 of the most popular cashback apps available on Google Play and the App Store, prioritizing how easy they really are to use, earn cash and get rewarded. While you arent likely to get rich using any one of them, our hope is you find one that fits your shopping habits  and puts a little money back in your pocket.

Expert tip: When using these apps, pay for your purchase with a cashback or rewards credit card to maximize your savings. That way, you earn your card and app rewards at the same time  with no extra effort.

1. Best overall cashback app: Rakuten

Rakuten Get cash back at more than 3,500 stores with payouts every quarter Rakuten  The basics

Free to use

Sign up online or on the app

Save money at Rakuten, through the app or with a browser extension

Get cash back by check or PayPal every 3 months  User ratings

App Store: 4.8 out of 5 stars (360K reviews)

Google Play: 3.6 out of 5 stars (71.6K reviews) Pros No need to upload receipts

Browser extension automatically notifies you of deals

Thousands of participating retailers Cons Payouts every 3 months on returns of $5 or more

Limited in-store cashback options

Complaints include delayed payouts and glitchy technology Sign up at Rakuten

Why we like it

Rakuten is a free cashback app thats popular for good reason. Formerly Ebates, it boasts an impressive 3,500 partner stores across a wide range of shopping categories with automatic returns on clothing, electronics, housewares, automotive, restaurants, airlines, hotels and more. Popular brands include Target, Walmart, Kohls, Macys  even warehouse stores like Sams Club, which are typically excluded from credit card rewards.

You can sign up online or through Rakutens app in under a minute with an email address and password or your Google, Apple or Facebook account. After signup, download the Safari browser extension to be notified of deals and compare prices each time you shop online.

You can also earn cashback rewards at physical stores without having to upload receipts  just add a credit card to your account youll shop with, link an offer to that card and use that card to pay for your purchase.

Frequent promotions include double cashback rewards that can help you further maximize your rewards. And if youre new to the app, youll earn an additional 10% cash back on purchases made within your first week and $30 for each friend you refer to the app who signs up.

What people say

Rakuten shoppers praise the site for its wide range of stores, competitive cashback rates compared to other apps and a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to activate cashback offers. Fans on the active r/Rakuten subreddit claim theyve earned thousands of dollars over the years, offering hacks on how to stack discounts with limited-time promotions and through credit card bonuses.

However, some reviews on Reddit and Google Play report delayed payments and glitches with the mobile app, while others caution keeping a close eye on rewards to make sure Rakuten comes through on your purchases.

2. Best for groceries: Ibotta

Ibotta Earn money on groceries at a range of local chains, national supermarkets and warehouse stores Ibotta  The basics

Free to use

Sign up online or on the app

Save money through the app or browser extension

Get cash back to your bank account, PayPal or gift card after earnings reach $20  User ratings

Apple Store: 4.8 out of 5 stars (1.8M reviews)

Google Play: 4.5 out of 5 stars (685K reviews) Pros Wide range of national, regional and local supermarkets and delivery

Flexible redemption options

Bonuses and referral rewards Cons Reports of glitches and technical issues

Takes some effort to plan and maximize savings Sign up at Ibotta

Why we like it

Ibotta is a free app and Chrome browser extension that can stretch your budget with generous cash back at a wide range of stores focused on groceries and grocery delivery. Supermarkets include such chains as Albertsons, Giant, H-E-B, Hannaford, Harris Teeter, Jewel-Osco, Key Food, Kroger, Meijer, Publix, Safeway, ShopRite, Stop & Shop and Winn-Dixie, but also warehouse stores like BJs Wholesale Club, Costco, Target and Walmart that arent typically included in credit card rewards. Other sites and retailers include gas stations, convenience stores, health and beauty retailers and pet supply stores, which you can find on Ibottas site.

To use Ibotta, sign up online or download the app. Before you shop, look for an offer at the store or in the category youre looking to buy in. Link your loyalty card or, if youre done shopping, upload your receipt. You can also shop at online retailers through the app. Once youve earned at least $20, you can redeem your rewards to a linked bank account, PayPal or gift cards.

To maximize your rewards with Ibotta, make it a habit to browse Ibottas Hot Deals. And check for periodic signup and referral bonuses online.

What people say

Many happy customers appreciate Ibottas user-friendly interface, ease of uploading receipts and the ability to earn cash back on everyday household items youre likely to purchase anyways. Youll also find an active subreddit of Ibotta fans dedicated to sharing savings tricks, highlighting limited-time offers and troubleshooting issues.

As for troubleshooting, some users complain of disappearing offers, issues with scanning and not-so-great customer support, with a general warning that youll need to plan your shopping trips ahead of time to get the most out of this app.

3. Best for gas purchases: Upside

Upside Rack up savings at the pump and local retailers in your neighborhood Upside  The basics

Free to use

Download and sign up on the app

Save money [through the app or browser extension]

Get cash back to your bank account, PayPal or gift card after earnings reach $15  User ratings

Apple Store: 4.8 out 5 stars (544K reviews)

Google Play: 4.6 out of 5 stars (365K reviews) Pros Higher rewards on gas than other cashback apps

Referral program with ongoing rewards Cons Cashback percentages may not be as high as advertised

Reported app glitches and lack of deals in some ZIP codes Sign up at Upside

Why we like it

The Upside app can earn you cash back at the pump across more than 100,000 gas stations, convenience stores and fast food chains in the U.S. You can also earn cash back at grocery stores and local eateries that arent always included in cashback apps.

While Upside advertises that you can earn up to $0.25 a gallon on gas, we found that savings are likely to be closer to $0.08 to $0.12 a gallon, depending on your ZIP code  still, with gas a necessity for most of us, these savings can add up to a lot over time.

To maximize your cash back with Upside, search for the best gas offers in your area and stack your savings with gas station loyalty rewards programs. You can also take advantage of Upsides referral program, which allows you to earn money on every gallon of gas your referrals buy.

What people say

Reviews on app stores and Reddit agree the Upside app is easy to use and report the ability to earn significant cash back on everyday purchases  some users totaling savings in the hundreds of dollars. Upside fans also like the apps referral program, which allows them to earn even more when family and friends sign up and buy gas.

4. Best for dining out: Seated

Seated Reserve a seat at a wide range of restaurants in select metropolitan cities for gift cards Seated  The basics

Free to use

Download and sign up on the app

Save money by booking reservations and orders on the app

Get cash back by digital gift card  User ratings

Apple Store: 4.6 out of 5 stars (10.3K reviews)

Google Play: 2.3 out of 5 stars (1.3K reviews) Pros Dining rewards of up to 30%

Referral program Cons Limited to select metropolitan cities

Upload dining receipts within 90 days or forfeit your rewards Sign up at Seated

Why we like it

Designed with frequent diners in mind, the Seated app allows you to earn up to between 15% and 30% cash back at restaurants in 10 metropolitan cities, with promises of more to come:

 Atlanta

 Boston

 Chicago

 Dallas

 D.C.

 Los Angeles

 Miami

 New York City

 Philadelphia

 San Francisco

Seated partners with what it calls a highly vetted list of more than 2,000 restaurants, providing a wide selection of dining options and rewards within its service footprint. Just make your reservations through the app or walk into a participating restaurant, and then upload your receipt within 90 days after dining. You can redeem your rewards for instant credit on rideshares, travel and shopping through brands like Amazon, Delta Airlines and Starbucks.

Seated often promotes limited-time offers for less popular seating times or local restaurants looking for new customers. To maximize your savings with Seated, use the app to sort by the highest rewards offered. Sign up for Seateds referral program and both you and a friend can earn a bonus after their first reservation.

What people say

Users say the app is easy to use and report earning hefty rewards, with some saying they racked up hundreds of dollars with the app. They also like the selection of restaurants, which offers opportunities to discover new favorites. Still others say selections are limited to higher-end restaurants over casual dining.

5. Best for travel: Dosh

Dosh Save money on stays and promoted discounts at more than 600,000 hotels worldwide Dosh  The basics

Free to use

Download and sign up on the app

Save money by booking travel reservations on the app

Get cash back to your bank account, PayPal or Venmo  or donate your cash to charity  User ratings

Apple Store: 4.7 out of 5 (133K reviews)

Google Play: 4.5 out of 5 (47K reviews) Pros Generous discounts on hotel stays and events

Simply link a credit or debit card to reserve Cons $15 monthly maintenance fee kicks in after 12 months of inactivity

Must use credit option on debit cards to get rewards Sign up at Dosh

Why we like it

Like the other cashback apps on our list, the Dosh app allows you to earn cash back at participating restaurants, retailers and online stores. You link your credit card, like deals within the app and then shop as usual for cash back on your purchases.

What sets the app apart, however, is a feature that boasts lucrative cash back on travel, including activities and rooms at more than 600,000 hotels worldwide. And its a no-brainer to use: Simply search for an event or booking through the Dosh app, reserve it with your linked card and see money deposited into your Dosh Wallet within 30 days after checkout. After youve earned $15, you can transfer your money to a bank, PayPal or Venmo account or donate to charities within the app.

Once youre set up with Dosh, youre assigned a personal referral code that you can share with friends for a cashback bonus for you and your referral after theyve signed up.

What people say

Reviews of the Dosh app are generally positive, with users highlighting how easy it is to use and earn cash back through competitive hotel rates and promoted travel bonuses. However, some users say deals are hit and miss and describe problems getting their money out of the app.

For savings stackers, a traveler on Reddit cautions you might not be able to stack rewards with Dosh and your favorite hotel rewards programs, and deals dont often include resort or hotel fees, which can make for a surprising bill at check-in. You might need to ask when weighing how to pay for your stay.

6. Best for utilities: Future

Future A combined app and debit card that rewards cash back on utilities and green spending Future  The basics

Free to use

Download and sign up on the app

Save money by linking your utility bills and paying with the FutureCard

Get cash back as a statement credit  User ratings

Apple Store: 4.7 out of 5 stars (935 reviews)

Google Play: 3.5 out of 5 stars (177 reviews) Pros Free to sign up for app and FutureCard

5% cash back on public transport, ridesharing, thrifting and other green activities

Access energy from solar energy farms Cons Must sign up with Arcadia for 10% cash back

Not available in all states Sign up at Future

Why we like it

The Future app offers 10% cash back on your energy bills for a year when you connect your existing utilities to clean-energy company Arcadia and pay your bill with the FutureCard, a free virtual debit card you can apply for through the app without a credit check. According to Futures site, you arent required to switch providers, install equipment or commit to Future for the cash back. And the FutureCard comes with no annual fee and doesnt require a deposit  instead, you link a checking account, and card purchases are paid for from that account.

The FutureCard also earns 5% cash back on everyday green spending at EV charging stations and thrift stores and on public transportation and rideshares. Additional bonuses include 6% at FuturePartner sustainable brands like eco-friendly household and personal care site Grove Collaborative, Just Salad and Lululemons resale program. All other spending earns 1% cash back.

What people say

While reviews are mixed  and based on fairly small numbers of customers  many cardholders like the Future app and FutureCard for being a handy way to get cash back on utility bills, public transportation and green eating (think: plant-based meat), with rewards that post the next day. One customer said they declined linking services with Acadia but still get cash back by paying their utilities with the FutureCard.

7. Best for online shopping: PayPal Honey

PayPal Honey Pick up points, price drops and automatic coupons at more than 30,000 online retailers PayPal Honey  The basics

Free to use

Sign up with your PayPal account, online or through the app

Save money when shopping online at participating retailers

Convert earned points to cash, PayPal shopping credits or gift cards  User ratings

Apple Store: 4.3 out of 5 (7.7K reviews)

Google Play: 4 out of 5 stars (8.4K reviews) Pros Automatic coupon application while you shop

Honey rewards program earns gift cards or cash

Automatic price drop tracking Cons Cannot be used in stores

Coupon codes arent guaranteed to work

Mixed customer reviews Sign up at PayPal Honey

Why we like it

PayPal Honey  just Honey until 2020, when it was acquired by PayPal  is a free mobile app and browser extension that automatically searches for and applies coupon codes at checkout at more than 30,000 online retailers and shopping sites, helping you to save time by finding the best bargains on the fly while you browse. Simply shop for what you want, and Honey applies coupon codes to your cart until it finds you the biggest savings. It can also notify you when prices drop on items youre interested in.

Other ways to earn include PayPal reward points that you can redeem for cash and gift cards and a program that rewards you 500 points  worth $5  for each referral who signs up.

What people say

Shoppers who use PayPal Honey like how it finds coupon codes and discounts without the work, helping them to save money on items theyd planned to purchase without it. Some users call out glitches with the app and browser extension, with most getting a response from a Honey representative to help resolve the issues.

Types of cashback apps

Youll find a wide range of apps that can help you save money, though cashback apps tend to fall within three main ways to earn:

Cash back. These apps provide online shoppers with automatic rewards or coupons at checkout. Examples include Rakuten, Ibotta, Honey and Capital One Shopping.

Receipt-scanning apps. These apps require you to scan or upload photos of your physical shopping receipts to earn cash back or points. Examples include Receipt Hog and Fetch.

Loyalty apps. These apps link to your credit card, debit card or loyalty shopper programs to automatically reward eligible purchases, tracking the rewards you earn. Examples include apps for Starbucks and Chipotle.

Dig deeper: Best discounts for ages 50+: Where to save money for active agers, seniors and retirees

What to look for in a cashback app

When weighing whether to sign up with a cashback app, its best to find one that fits neatly into your lifestyle and spending habits. Consider the retailers it partners with, what youll need to do to earn money and how easy it is to redeem rewards, among other factors  all of which better position you to actually use the app you download (and not clutter up your device).

A range of retailers. The best cashback apps partner with a large number of retailers across a wide range of categories, giving you more opportunities to earn rewards. High cashback rates. The app should offer competitive cash back on the things you spend money on frequently, ideally from 2% to 10% or more. Practical payout options. The app should pay out your rewards in a way thats useful for you  and not require payout thresholds you cant easily meet. Most apps offer bank transfers, deposits to digital wallets or gift cards. Frequent payouts. Understand how often the app tallies up and pays out what you earn. Some cashback apps pay out quickly, while others require waiting months to redeem your earnings. Easy to use. Look for an app that offers streamlined services  and doesnt make you jump through excessive hoops to earn. Bonus savings and features. Some apps provide price comparisons, integrate coupons and track price drops to make sure youre earning as much as you can. Generous referral programs. Referral bonuses can further boost your earnings. The popular gas app Upside offers a referral program users like due to its high cashback potential. Good reputation and reviews. Look for apps with high ratings on app stores, review sites and forums as well as positive sentiment among actual customers. Responsive customer support. See what other customers say about help with problems to know whether youre stuck on your own if you bump into issues.

Dig deeper: 18 clever ways to save money  and take the pinch out of inflation

How we chose the best cashback apps

We evaluated 20 of the most popular cashback apps available on Google Play and the App Store as of August 2, 2024, analyzing each app against six important features:

Retail partner network

Cashback reward levels

Cashback reward type  for example, cash or points

Payout options  including bank transfers, digital wallet deposits and gift cards

Security features and privacy policies

Popularity among people who use them

We also read through customer reviews on Google Play, the App Store, Trustpilot and Reddit to better understand actual user experiences  the good and the bad.

Frequently asked questions: Cashback apps

How do cashback apps make money?

Cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta most often make money through affiliate marketing. Affiliate marketing is a type of business arrangement whereby a company pays an affiliate  in this case, the app  a small commission for each customer signup or sale through the app. Apps share a cut of this commission with you in the form of cash back.

Another perk for these app companies is the ability to gather real-time insights on customer spending habits. In a way, this data is more valuable to marketers than your single purchase. Each purchase, upload, survey or other action you take through the app is data these companies are collecting, analyzing and using to make marketing decisions.

With a reputable app, this data excludes personally identifiable information  such as your name, address or birthdate. But its a good idea to read the fine print to understand how the app intends to use your data and whether you can opt out.

Are cashback apps safe?

Yes, the most popular cashback apps protect your data with industry-standard protections that include data encryption, privacy protections and two-factor authentication at sign-in. Some, like Ibotta, even promote bug bounties that provide cash rewards for ethical hackers who can breach their systems ahead of enterprising bad guys.

Most apps include a privacy and safety statement as part of signup or within the app that can help you understand how well the company intends to protect your data into the future.

How can I be sure Im getting the highest payouts?

Sites like Cashback Monitor and Evreward aggregate savings, rewards and coupons to help you compare earning rates across shopping portals and cashback apps.

These directories cant guarantee youre getting the highest payouts, but they can show you where todays best cashback, travel, card and other deals are  and how to combine discounts for even stronger savings.

Is there a limit to how much I can earn with a cashback app?

It depends on the app, but most wont limit how much you can earn  though you might need to meet an earnings threshold before you can get your payout. Research how and how often an app pays out your earnings before signing up.

What if an app requires a membership fee?

Some cashback apps ask that you link a bank or credit card account for future payouts, but you shouldnt need to pay money up front to use a cashback app. If you run across a free app that asks for payment before you can earn rewards, its a red flag to look elsewhere.

About the writer

Kat Aoki is a seasoned finance writer who's written thousands of articles to empower people to better understand technology, fintech, banking, lending and investments. Her expertise has been featured on sites like Forbes Advisor, Lifewire and Finder, with bylines at top technology brands in the U.S. and Australia. Kat strives to empower consumers and business owners to make informed decisions and choose the right financial products for their needs.
Embattled airplane maker Boeing disclosed it lavished an additional $546,000 on the cost of personal air travel in recent years for four top executives, including CEO Dave Calhoun, who announced last month that he will leave the company by the end of the year.

The increased spending estimate, disclosed in a recent company filing, brought the total cost to the company for the personal air travel for the four to $1.9 million since 2021. Besides Calhoun, the other executives include CFO Brian West; Stan Deal, who recently departed as CEO of its commercial airplane unit; and Theodore Colbert, the CEO of its defense, space and security business.

The disclosure comes as the plane maker is facing additional scrutiny for a series of safety incidents, including a midair blowout of part of a fuselage in January, which prompted a number of investigations into the companys practices, an executive shakeup and promises that the company will turn itself around.

The air travel is part of what are known as perquisites, or perks granted the executives, which also include ground transportation, lodging and meals during personal travel.

And for air travel, the reported costs include only the incremental costs to Boeing, such as fuel, crew travel expenses, on-board meals, landing fees , and parking costs. It does not include the cost of the corporate jets or the salaries of the flight crew, which Boeing said it would be paying whether or not the executives made the personal trips.

The cost of personal air travel by Calhoun alone came to $979,000 during those three years.

The upward adjustment means that Boeing spent at least $734,000 in 2022 and $306,000 in 2021 on these executives personal air travel, according to figures provided. Some of the amounts for air travel for Colbert and Deal are not broken out for the earlier years, despite the increased cost now being reported for those years for all four. And 2023 personal air travel costs for the four came to $872,000.

Boeing has been struggling financially for five years, since fatal crashes of its 737 Max in late 2018 and early 2019 resulted in a 20-month grounding of its best-selling plane. It was also hit by the pandemic, which caused a near-halt in air travel for months and deep losses at most airlines that buy its planes.

Since the start of the grounding in 2019 the company has reported adjusted losses totaling more than $31 billion, and losses are projected to continue going forward.

Company policy requires its CEO to fly on its fleet of private jets, or leased aircraft, even when flying for personal reasons for security reasons, and the other top executives are permitted to do so as well when aircraft are available.

But an internal company review of some of the flights that had previously been classified as business travel determined the flights should be classified as personal travel under Securities and Exchange Commission rules, according to the filing. That review resulted in a newly reported cost of personal travel that was $546,000 more in 2022 and 2021 than previously disclosed.

That review appears to have been conducted after a September 2023 article in the Wall Street Journal detailing the perks of top Boeing executives, including the liberal use of the aircraft to travel from homes far from company headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia.

The new filing came Friday evening. Boeing did not have any comment on the costs of the executives personal air travel beyond the information in the filing.

That Friday filing also disclosed that Calhouns total compensation for 2023 came to $32.8 million, up 45% from his 2022 compensation. He did decline his annual incentive bonus, which would have paid him an additional $2.8 million, after a Boeing 737 Max plane being flown by Alaska Airlines on January 5 had a door plug blow out, leaving a gaping hole in the side of the plane.

The incident sparked a series of federal investigations, a temporary grounding, executive ousters and renewed questions about the safety and quality of Boeing planes.

Last month, Calhoun announced he would step down as CEO of the embattled aircraft maker by the end of the year. At the same time, it was announced that Deal would retire from his position atop Boeing Commercial Airplanes, effective immediately.

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A Colorado lawmaker apologized Thursday for leaving a firearm unattended in a bathroom at the State Capitol this week.

Republican state Rep. Don Wilson left a loaded 9 mm Glock handgun on a shelf in a single-occupancy bathroom around 9 p.m. local time Tuesday, the Colorado State Patrol said in a news release. The Capitol was closed to the public at 7 p.m. that evening.

State Patrol officials said security video showed the gun was left unattended for about 20 minutes before it was found by the janitorial staff and safely stored. Wilson contacted state troopers about an hour later, and they returned the gun to him.

I want to be clear that I take full and complete accountability for the incident. I made a mistake and am very sorry, Wilson said in a statement Thursday. I take firearm safety very seriously. This is a humbling experience and I will reaffirm my commitment to responsible handling procedures.

Colorado State Police said that after an investigation it was determined that Wilson had not violated any state laws.

Individuals with Capitol credentials and access are permitted to carry a firearm inside the secure areas in compliance with Colorado gun laws, state police said.

Democratic House Speaker Julie McCluskie, admonished Wilson, saying in a statement this incident created a dangerous situation.

She added that Democrats are pursuing legislation to prohibit carrying firearms in the Capitol.

A measure that would prohibit firearms in sensitive spaces, including certain government buildings, was introduced in February.

Senate President Steve Fenberg, a Democrat who supports the measure, said, A Republican lawmaker recklessly leaving a loaded gun in a public bathroom only demonstrates the very need for gun safety policies like the ones Democrats are fighting for.

Similar efforts have fallen short in Congress.

The House Natural Resources Committee last year rejected a Democratic amendment to ban firearms from the committees hearing room after the Republican-controlled Rules Committee removed a provision put in place by Democrats that had barred firearms in committees and hearing rooms.

The incident Tuesday was not the first time a gun has been mishandled in the Colorado State Capitol.

State Rep. Richard Holtorf, who is running for Congress in the 4th Congressional District, dropped his gun outside the House chamber while he was headed to a vote in 2022, The Denver Post reported.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson waits following Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressing Congress in Washington. Johnson met with former President Donald Trump in Palm Beach Friday amid pressure on his leadership from conservatives. Trump said "I stand with the speaker."

Former President Donald Trump gave House Speaker Mike Johnson a political lifeline Friday amid discontent with his leadership among conservatives in the House, saying, I stand with the speaker, weve had a very good relationship."

After a week filled with political setbacks for both men, and as Trump faces the first of four potential criminal trials beginning Monday in Manhattan, two of the country's most powerful Republicans met at Mar-a-Lago to unveil voting legislation they hope will put Democrats on the defensive, even as critics say its based on a false premise.

Johnson is struggling to govern a fractious GOP caucus that has become increasingly disenchanted with his leadership, to the point that he is facing the threat of removal.

Johnsons dustup with conservatives over reauthorizing a controversial spying law this week is just the latest in a series of legislative battles that have left him vulnerable on his right flank, and meeting with the party's presumptive 2024 presidential nominee was widely viewed as a way for the speaker to shore up GOP support.

I think hes doing a very good job, hes doing about as good as youre going to do," Trump said of Johnson Friday during the press conference.

Trump addresses abortion debate and criminal trial

The Trump campaigns efforts to try to neutralize the abortion issue, which has bedeviled the GOP, faced a setback this week when an Arizona court decision reinstated a near-total abortion ban in that state. Trump responded that the law went too far, as he worries about political blowback in a key swing state.

Friday's meeting between Trump and Johnson came three days before jury selection starts in Trump's hush money trial, and a little more than a year after he became the first former president to be indicted.

The former president railed against the New York criminal case during his Mar-a-Lago press conference when questioned by reporters, calling it a "scam" and a "witch hunt" while saying he plans to testify.

The focus of Friday's event was to promote a bill aimed at keeping noncitizens from voting, something already outlawed by the federal government and extremely rare, according to election experts.

Republicans see political advantage to the bill, though, as Johnson made clear.

When we put this bill on the floor youre going to see a record vote by Republicans and Democrats," Johnson said. "Youll see that Republicans stand for election integrity and then well be able to ask this very important question of the Democrats, theyre going to have to go on record.

Trump and Johnson 'don't care about election integrity,' top Dem says

The voting bill fits with Trumps emphasis on election integrity, which has become a catch-all term encapsulating GOP efforts to indulge Trumps false claims about widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election and push to enact new restrictions on voting.

Democrats denounced the Trump and Johnson press conference as another attempt by Trump to spread his "big lie" about alleged fraud in 2020. Donald Trump and Mike Johnson dont care about election integrity  they care only about helping Trumps campaign of revenge and retribution to regain power at all costs," said U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., chairman of the special committee that investigated the Jan. 6 insurrection.

The Mar-a-Lago meeting was particularly important for Johnson, whose speakership is increasingly endangered.

Johnson won the job after Republicans removed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and engaged in a series of failed votes to find a replacement. They eventually settled on Johnson, who was little known at the time, but was viewed as a staunch conservative who could placate the far-right wing of the party.

Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) talks to Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) during a session of the House of Representatives reconvened on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023, to elect a Speaker of the House.

Dubbed MAGA Mike when he first ascended to power, Johnson upset conservatives by supporting spending legislation and other measures they oppose.

As a conservative member of the conference Im very frustrated with the things that have happened since he has become speaker, Rep. Greg Steube of Florida said this week as Johnson prepared to go to Palm Beach.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., filed a motion to remove Johnson as speaker but has yet to force a vote.

With Greene and other MAGA-friendly Republicans a thorn in his side, Johnson's meeting on Friday with Trump posed a new opportunity for the speaker to try and calm the rebellion.

Were getting along very well with the speaker and I get along very well with Marjorie," Trump said. The former president added that Johnson was "doing about as good as youre going to do and Im sure that Marjorie understands that, shes a very good friend of mine and I know she has a lot of respect for the speaker.

Trumps blessing could take the heat off Johnson for now, but right-wing fury against the embattled speaker continues to foment.

Johnson faces more difficult decisions ahead on funding for Ukraine and other issues.

Asked Friday if he supports more aid for Ukraine, Trump said Were looking at it right now and theyre talking about it and were thinking about making it in the form of a loan instead of just a gift."

Trump also fielded multiple questions about abortion, including why he has flipped and now opposes federal legislation limiting the procedure.

Because we dont need it any longer, because we broke Roe v. Wade, Trump said, referring to the U.S. Supreme Court decision that had protected abortion rights until it was struck down in June 2022 by a court he reshaped with three conservative lifetime appointments.

The Biden administration reacted to the news conference by seeking to keep the focus on the abortion issue, pointing to comments Vice President Kamala Harris made Friday in Arizona.

Just this week he said that he is proudly the person responsible for overturning Roe, Harris said of Trump. Proudly responsible for the pain and suffering of millions of women and families, proudly responsible that he took your freedoms.

GOP still at odds over spying law

While Trump and Johnson were eager to project unity Friday, it's not clear they're fully aligned. Trump called on Congress to "KILL FISA" in a post on Truth Social.

The former president's opposition to the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act didn't ultimately stop the House from voting Friday to pass a bill that does just that, albeit with some concessions that changed the programs regular expiration date to two years from five years.

"Im not a big fan of FISA but I told everybody, I said: do what you want." Trump said Friday. "They put a lot of checks and balances on it. I guess it's down to two years now."

For some, the Mar-a-Lago meetup was reminiscent of another House leader heading to Florida to align himself with Trump.

McCarthy traveled to South Florida less than a month after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, at a time when Trump's political power appeared to be at an all-time low point.

Trump is now back atop the Republican Party, and McCarthy has been replaced.

Contributing: David Jackson and Ken Tran

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump backs Mike Johnson amid calls from right for his ouster
KUNMING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China and Vietnam held the eighth border defense friendship exchange from Thursday to Friday in Hekou county, Yunnan Province in southwest China, and Lao Cai of Vietnam, as well as relevant port areas.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun and his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang led delegations attending the event and held talks.

Dong said China is ready to work with Vietnam to implement the consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties, improve maritime cooperation between the two sides, and contribute to building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

Giang said Vietnam is willing to work closely with China to push bilateral defense relations to a new level.

The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding on the establishment of a hotline between the Chinese People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command and the Vietnamese navy. 
Bruce Glikas/Getty Images)

Angelina Jolie was joined by daughter Vivienne Jolie-Pitt for a rare outing at the opening night of her Broadway musical, The Outsiders.

Jolie, 48, was beaming as she and Vivienne, 15, posed together on the red carpet outside the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in New York City on Thursday, April 11.

The philanthropist opted for a two-tone gold ensemble for the big night, wearing a cape draped over a floor-length metallic gown, seemingly nodding to the Outsiders famous line, Stay gold, Ponyboy. Along with gold statement earrings, Jolies old Hollywood glam  which consisted of bouncy curls and red lipstick  complemented her look perfectly.

For her red carpet outfit, Vivienne kept it simple with a blue button-up and minimal makeup, wearing her brown locks down and tucked behind her ears.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie: A Timeline of Their Relationship

Earlier this month, Jolie and Vivienne posed backstage with the cast and crew during the productions previews. The mother-daughter duo both serve as co-producers of the show.

Viv reminds me of my mother in that she isnt focused on being the center of attention but in being a support to other creatives, Jolie said in an August 2023 statement about their new roles. Shes very thoughtful and serious about theatre and working hard to best understand how to contribute.

Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

Adapted from S.E. Hintons critically acclaimed novel of the same name, The Outsiders follows Ponyboy Curtis (Brody Grant), his best friend Johnny Cade (Sky Lakota-Lynch) and their Greaser family as they battle with their rivals, the Socs, in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1967.

The musical is written by Adam Rapp and Justin Levine, and it also features music and lyrics by Jamestown Revival.

In honor of the coming-of-age tales 50th anniversary in 2017, Hinton, 75, reflected on why the novel has remained a relevant piece of literature through the years.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's Family Album: Sweetest Pics With Their 6 Kids

Everyone everywhere can identify with the in group and the out group and even feel like an outsider in their own group,she exclusively told Us Weekly. In Ponyboys group, no one liked to read books or see movies by themselves like he did. The character Cherry felt the same way, but she couldnt tell her friends how she felt because it wouldnt be cool. Teens still identify with those emotions. That and raging against injustice. Thats just the way you feel at that age.

The novel inspired a movie adaptation in 1983, which was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and stars Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe, Patrick Swayze, Ralph Macchio and Matt Dillion.

Lowe  who portrayed Sodapop Curtis in the film  previously said that he was excited to see the story come to life onstage.

I am sure at some point Ill see it, he exclusively told Us Weekly in March. Its amazing that theyre doing that. I mean, it makes perfect sense. I hope its great. It should be great.

Brangelina: The Way They Were

Jolie and Viviennes outing comes one week after the actress legal team filed a motion in support of her ongoing legal battle with ex-husband Brad Pitt over their French winery, Chateau Miraval. In the filing, which was obtained by People, Jolies attorneys claimed that Pitt was abusive toward Jolie before the 2016 plane incident with their children that resulted in her filing for divorce.

The exes share a total of six kids: Maddox, 22, Pax, 20, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 17, and twins Vivienne and Knox, 15.
Disney/John Fleenor

Golden Bachelor star Susan Noles put in her two cents about Gerry Turner and Theresa Nists shocking divorce announcement, saying they have their reasons, Im sure

During a joint Instagram video on Friday, April 12, with fellow cast member Kathy Swarts, Noles, 67, told fans dont give up on the idea of meeting somebody on a show like that, adding, There are so many people out there who are still in love. And I truly believe those two fell in love.

They have their reasons, Im sure, Susan, who officiated the former couples wedding, added. So be supportive everybody. Stay positive, and we wish them all the best.

Earlier in the video, Kathy, 70, said, We just watched it on TV. It is sad, it is tragic. Please people be kind. These are our friends. The love didnt work out, but theyre great people. And our hearts are breaking for them.

More Than 50 'Bachelor' Stars Attend Gerry and Theresa's Wedding: Full List

When Gerry, 72, and Theresa, 70, confirmed their plans to divorce, the news left fans reeling.

I wish them all the very best, Noles wrote in the comments of Us Weeklys post about the split.

Disney/Eric McCandless

Another fan was less sympathetic, and added, This is a total joke cancel this show already.

The estranged couple first announced the split on Good Morning America. Theresa and I have had a number of heart to heart conversations and weve looked closely at our situation  our living situation  and weve kind of come to the conclusion mutually that its time for us to dissolve our marriage, Gerry said, adding that its best for the happiness of each of us to live apart and be near their families.

Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist's Relationship Timeline

Theresa noted that Gerrys dating history was not a factor in the split.

Gerry had already discussed that with me, Theresa said. He had explained it to me before the report was ever released, so we were good with that.

The pair first met during season 1 of the hit ABC spinoff series and got engaged in the final episode, which wrapped in September 2023. They tied the knot four months later in a January ceremony televised live on the network.

Earlier this month, TMZ reported that Theresa and the retired restaurateur were living apart. A source later confirmed to Us that they were managing a long-distance marriage between what cities/states?

Despite never having shared a residence, Gerry and Teresa had voiced their aspirations of ultimately establishing a shared home together.

One of the things that I think fate played a hand in is the possibility of where we might wind up living. For the last couple of years, when my family gets together, Ive talked about moving to South Carolina, and its an idea Ive toyed with. And then in conversation with Theresa, a private moment, shes saying, Well, yeah, my son lives near Charleston in South Carolina, Gerry told People in December 2023. And all of a sudden its like, theres a big problem that is gone. The issue of compromising on where to live and how to reconcile families and all of that is, its no longer an issue.
Hundreds of protestors gather in front of Googles San Francisco offices, demanding an end to its work with the Israeli government, and to protest Israeli attacks on Gaza, on Dec. 14, 2023. Credit - Tayfun CoskunAnadolu/Getty Images

Google provides cloud computing services to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, and the tech giant has negotiated deepening its partnership during Israels war in Gaza, a company document viewed by TIME shows.

The Israeli Ministry of Defense, according to the document, has its own landing zone into Google Clouda secure entry point to Google-provided computing infrastructure, which would allow the ministry to store and process data, and access AI services.

The ministry sought consulting assistance from Google to expand its Google Cloud access, seeking to allow multiple units to access automation technologies, according to a draft contract dated March 27, 2024. The contract shows Google billing the Israeli Ministry of Defense over $1 million for the consulting service.

The version of the contract viewed by TIME was not signed by Google or the Ministry of Defense. But a March 27 comment on the document, by a Google employee requesting an executable copy of the contract, said the signatures would be completed offline as its an Israel/Nimbus deal. Google also gave the ministry a 15% discount on the original price of consulting fees as a result of the Nimbus framework, the document says.

Project Nimbus is a controversial $1.2 billion cloud computing and AI agreement between the Israeli government and two tech companies: Google and Amazon. Reports in the Israeli press have previously indicated that Google and Amazon are contractually barred from preventing specific arms of the Israeli state using their technology under Project Nimbus. But this is the first time the existence of a contract showing that the Israeli Ministry of Defense is a Google Cloud customer has been made public.

Google recently described its work for the Israeli government as largely for civilian purposes. We have been very clear that the Nimbus contract is for workloads running on our commercial platform by Israeli government ministries such as finance, healthcare, transportation, and education, a Google spokesperson told TIME for a story published on April 8. Our work is not directed at highly sensitive or classified military workloads relevant to weapons or intelligence services.

Contacted on April 10 with questions about the Ministry of Defense contract, a Google spokesperson declined to comment further.

Read More: Exclusive: Google Workers Revolt Over $1.2 Billion Contract With Israel

The news comes after recent reports in the Israeli media have alleged the countrys military, controlled by the Ministry of Defense, is using an AI-powered system to select targets for air-strikes on Gaza. Such an AI system would likely require cloud computing infrastructure to function. The Google contract seen by TIME does not specify for what military applications, if any, the Ministry of Defense uses Google Cloud, and there is no evidence Google Cloud technology is being used for targeting purposes. But Google employees who spoke with TIME said the company has little ability to monitor what customers, especially sovereign nations like Israel, are doing on its cloud infrastructure.

The Israeli Ministry of Defense did not respond to requests for comment.

The Israeli Ministry of Defenses attempt to onboard more units to Google Cloud is described in the contract as phase 2 of a wider project to build out the ministrys cloud architecture.

The document does not explicitly describe phase one, but does refer to earlier work carried out by Google on behalf of the ministry. The ministry, the contract says, has [already] established a Google Cloud Landing Zone infrastructure as part of their overall cloud strategy and to enable [the Ministry of Defense] to move applications to Google Cloud Platform.

For phase 2 of the project, the contract says, the Ministry of Defense is looking to enable its Landing Zone to serve multiple units and sub-units. Therefore, [the Ministry of Defense] would like to create several different automation modules within their Landing Zone based on Googles leading practices for the benefit of different units, with proper processes to support, and to implement leading practices for security and governance architecture using Google tools.

The consulting services on offer by Google are for the tech company to assist with architecture design, implementation guidance, and automation for the Ministry of Defenses Google Cloud landing zone, the contract says. The estimated start date is April 14, and Googles consulting services are expected to take one calendar year to complete.

Two Google workers have resigned in the last month in protest against Project Nimbus, TIME previously reported.

Write to Billy Perrigo at billy.perrigo@time.com.
If you still use X, you might have noticed some AI features seeping into the platform lately, powered by Elon Musks xAI chatbot, Grok.

Last week, X rolled out real-time customized news for you created by Grok AI. In the pre-Musk Twitter era, there used to be something called a curation team that identified trending topics and curated the platforms Explore page. Trending topics were whatever users were talking most about: the latest iPhone, Pi Day, or more pressing subjects like mass shootings and protests. Musk laid the entire curation team off shortly after acquiring the company, and now, many months later, its been replaced with AI. Thats going as well as one might imagine.

After an earthquake shook New York City last week, Xs Grok-powered trending tab dredged up jokes from users about the citys mayor, Eric Adams, sending 1,000 police officers to the Earths coreand pushed it as real news. Even worse, the AI trending tab ran a headline last week that read, Iran Strikes Tel Aviv with Heavy Missiles, which was completely made up.

Despite the pitfalls, Xs Grok-ification shows no signs of slowing. One source at X told me that Musk has directed engineers to add Grok to the tweet box for users who pay for X Premium, the platforms subscription feature, which means that users may soon be able to tweet with the help of AI (I imagine this will look similar to what X CEO Linda Yaccarino already posts). The source said Musk wants people to sound smarter, and he thinks Grok could help with that. For instance, after being prompted about outer space or popular memes, AI could assist with creating posts about those topics.

But making those posts smarter is a tall ask. Grok, after all, is trained on Xs huge years-old archive of user posts, and many of those arent exactly erudite.

What Musk wants AI to do with posts on X isnt exactly novel, either. While typing an email over Outlook or Gmail, users are often prompted with options to autocomplete their sentences. LinkedIn also offers options to write using AI. Id say the difference between firing off emails and posting on X is that the latter tends to involve more creativitya crafted personality, or perhaps personal authenticity. AI, as it stands today, is devoid of all of the above.

There is also the nontrivial problem of spam, which engineers seem unsure of how to tackle, and Musk seems unconcerned about, according to the source. There is so much spam on X that, when Musk posted that xAI would open-source Grok, whoever runs Groks X account appeared to poke fun at the widespread spam issue by mimicking the style of popular porn bot messages that pollute the platform.

Musk asked engineers to add Grok to the post-composing tool a few months ago, and, according to the source, the team is stalling. Whats more, the source says the xAI API is slow, making it hard for the X team to work with, and naturally, no one thinks its a great idea to let users use AI to fire off shitposts, or aggressive nonsense, at a higher volume.

As someone who has covered X since it was still known as Twitter, I think integrating Grok into X is an easier and quicker win for Musk than, say, creating a whole payments tool, which has long been in the works. If engineers fail to dodge the AI directive, well, Ill be interested to see how users put Grok to work as their ghostwriter.

Kylie Robison

Want to send thoughts or suggestions to Data Sheet? Drop a line here.

The rest of today's Data Sheet was written by David Meyer.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Facing stiff reelection odds in November, President Joe Biden is being urged by an influential lawmaker on Capitol Hill to shut the door to Americas market for good on electric vehicle manufacturers from China.

Citing a flood of EVs exported to Europe, where every fifth car comes from China, Ohios senior senator on Thursday warned of an existential threat to the American auto industry in an open letter he posted to the White House.

Tariffs are insufficient to stop their attack on American manufacturing, wrote Sherrod Brown, chair of the Senate Banking Committee. For this reason, the United States must ban Chinese-made EVs as soon as possible. This is a matter of economic and national security.

What Brown didnt say is that a chief culprit in the flood of Chinese-built EVs to Europe is Tesla.

Were it not for 25% duties the U.S. levies on cars from China, it is more than conceivable that Elon Musk would be importing at least some of his Model 3 and Model Y cars into America from his factory in Shanghai, just as he currently is doing for Canada.

As the November election nears, a policy debate is raging internally as to whether the U.S. is gradually turning away from its free market roots or if Americans are starting to believe China is a freeloader taking advantage of the rules-based order.

For his part, Brown has firmly been part of the protectionist wing of the Democratic Party, and proudly cites his track record opposing what he calls unfair trade deals that hurt workers.

As a freshman representative for Ohio in 1993, he voted on the House floor against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and only five years ago did he declare he finally met a trade deal he could support.

More important, his is one of the 34 Senate seats up for grabs in November.

Brown will be running for a fourth term in office in the heavily contested battleground of Ohio, part of the industrial Rust Belt heartland and a state carried by Trump both in 2016 and 2020.

Every job at a carmaker helps sustain nearly a dozen elsewhere

The auto industry is a barometer for the overall health of a countrys manufacturing sector.

As an apex consumer, it sits atop a wide range of lower-tier suppliers operating within the steel, rubber, plastics, chemicals, and electronics industries.

With its cavernous factories employing thousands of workers, it also traditionally has played a crucial role in building up a thriving middle class, the backbone of most advanced economies.

Troubles at a company like GM, Ford, or Stellantis can therefore spill over to affect the broader picture.

Each auto job in the United States supports 11 other jobs, Brown added, citing a figure from the lobby group Alliance for American Manufacturing.

China threatens to do in the EV space what it did in the solar panel industry some 15 years ago.

Back then, Germany was a global leader in manufacturing solar cells as part of an early effort to decarbonize their coal-heavy power grid.

Once Beijing identified the industry as strategic, it mobilized the countrys resources to quickly reach higher economies of scale and crush the competition on cost.

Both Musk and Trump have warned of the specter of a world-beating Chinese EV industry.

Critics argue the countrys enormous workforce of cheap labor, ability to quash dissent, and near total disregard for industrial pollution and environmental standards allow it to undercut Western competitors and defeat them at their own free market game.

Ohio knows all too well how China illegally subsidizes its companies, putting our workers out of jobs, and undermining entire industries, from steel to solar manufacturing, Brown argued.

We cannot allow China to bring its government-backed cheating to the American auto industry.

Fortune has reached out to the White House and the Chinese embassy for comment.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
'Such a stupid waste of money': Spotify employees reportedly blast the company's lavish spending on parties, trips amid thousands of layoffs

Some current and former Spotify employees have reportedly slammed the tech giant for splurging on swanky parties and exclusive events despite announcing mass layoffs in order to cut down on costs.

Take Spotifys Intro Days in Stockholm, for example  where the popular music streaming provider is headquartered. During these events, new hires are brought to the Swedish capital to network, hear from speakers and learn more about Spotify culture.

Don't miss

However, one former employee described it as the company "spending tons of money flying people to Sweden to drink the Kool-Aid," according to Business Insider.

"You literally just sit in a room and listen to executives talk back-to-back for three days, and then there's a party at the end," another person told the publication. "It's just such a stupid waste of money."

In total, Business Insider says it spoke with 14 current and former employees about the extravagant parties thrown by the company. Each one asked to remain anonymous

Spotify laid off thousands of employees last year

Like many other tech giants, after a glut of hires during the COVID-19 pandemic, Spotify started cutting back by handing out pink slips to staffers.

In December, CEO Daniel Ek sent employees a note announcing the companys third round of job cuts within a year  this time shrinking its workforce by 17%, or about 1,500 employees. Approximately 2,300 employees were laid off in 2023.

Read more: Suze Orman says Americans are poorer than they think  but having a dream retirement is so much easier when you know these 3 simple money moves

"Economic growth has slowed dramatically and capital has become more expensive," Ek wrote, adding that being lean is not just an option but a necessity.

The announcement took place days after Spotify celebrated its annual Wrapped campaign with an exclusive, celebrity-packed party in London superclub, headlined by the likes of Sam Smith, Charli XCX and Chase & Status.

The music streamer says it will continue parties, events

A Spotify spokesperson told Business Insider the company would continue events such as Wrapped, Stockholm Intro Days and the Best New Artist Grammy party, since theyre "key to promoting artists, engaging listeners, encouraging collaboration amongst employees and highlighting our services."

However, the company did not comment on exactly how much it shells out on these extravagant events.

The latest edition of Spotifest  an exclusive music festival for company employees  took place at The Brooklyn Mirage in New York last August, according to Business Insider, despite Ek calling for more moves to control costs earlier in the year.

The lavish event featured headliners Diplo and T-Pain, acrobats and drag performers, reports Business Insider. Attractions also included a barbershop, photo booths and a temporary-tattoo studio.

It took place two months after the company slashed 200 jobs.

"It was surprising to me that they stated they're on a cost-cutting drive but then continued spending," one former employee said, per Business Insider. Another person, who claimed to deal with budgets, apparently tried to broach the issue of the companys spending habits, but their concerns were brushed aside.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore "reduced the resiliency of US port and shipping operations" and could create "opportunities for foreign adversary exploitation," according to a new intelligence report obtained by ABC News.

The bridge collapse has rerouted $80 million in maritime cargo and trucking and the document said any disruptions at other ports "could have an outsized impact on the flow of goods that is not easily mitigated."

Baltimore's Key Bridge, a vital transit and shipping route, collapsed last month after being hit by a cargo ship. Following the disaster, which killed six construction workers, the Port of Baltimore suspended operations, resulting in thousands of job losses.

"Additional supply chain disruptions will be more difficult to overcome since the standard procedure of partially rerouting ad hoc cargo through the Port of Baltimore is no longer feasible," the document said.

PHOTO: A crane works on the debris of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 29, 2024 in Baltimore. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

So far, the rerouting of cargo has not significantly impacted the ability of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to detect and interdict potentially illicit or high-risk materials, the document said. Any enforcement actions initiated prior to the bridge collapse will be handled at U.S. ports of entry that receive the redirected shipments.

If there are logistical setbacks as a result of the bridge collapse, the intelligence analysts warned U.S. adversaries could exploit them.

"We have not seen indications that adversaries are actively exploiting the incident or related disruptions, but foreign adversaries have used an opportunistic approach to advancing a broad range of security, economic, and other strategic interests following similar US disasters," the report said.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden delivers remarks at the Maryland Transportation Authority Police Headquarters, near the site of the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge, on April 5, 2024 in Baltimore. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images, FILE)

The Port of Baltimore ranks as the ninth largest port in the United States by trading volume. Last year, the port managed to handle 52.3 tons of foreign cargo.

President Joe Biden has pledged to fully support Baltimore's rebuilding efforts. He said last week its his "intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstruction of that bridge."

Foreign adversaries could exploit Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: Intelligence report originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Manuel Rocha, the former US ambassador to Bolivia who acted as a secret foreign agent of Cuba, was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to federal charges Friday  a judge telling him, you turned your back on this country.

Rocha, 73, pleaded guilty in Miami to one count of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government and defrauding the United States. He also pleaded guilty to acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government without notice to the US government.

Prosecutors have alleged the former American diplomat acted as a covert agent of Cubas intelligence services for decades.

I take full responsibility, Rocha said.

He also told family and friends he was deeply sorry for his actions.

Judge Beth Bloom told the defendant: You turned your back on this country over and over again.

Bloom sentenced Rocha 5 years for conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government and 10 years for acting as a foreign agent to be served consecutively.

Charges for lying to investigators and wire fraud were dropped under the plea agreement.

During the three-and-a-half hour hearing Bloom suggested prosecutors had not done enough to investigate possible victims. The US government is the only victim, federal prosecutors said.

For 53 years, information was provided, Bloom told prosecutors. I dont know if there are victims. I dont know if you know.

Bloom also asked prosecutors why Rocha, a naturalized US citizen from Colombia, was not stripped of his citizenship. Rocha pledged allegiance to the US during a naturalization ceremony in the 1970s while working for an enemy of the state, Bloom said.

Rochas citizenship is a benefit, a privilege, an honor that was obtained by fraud, Bloom said.

Why was that not important to the United States? she asked prosecutors.

Assistant US Attorney Jonathan D. Stratton said the government considered stripping his citizenship but prioritized that Rocha admit his guilt.

We are not making concessions or foregoing the civil division going after denaturalization as part of its case. We are just not mandating it, Stratton said.

At Rochas age, Stratton noted, a 15-year term is tantamount to a life sentence, with little benefit to stripping him of his citizenship when hes 88.

The plea agreement was then updated to include that the government may seek to denaturalize Rocha in a civil proceeding. It also leaves open a window for newly identified witnesses to seek restitution

At a hearing in Miami in February, Rocha announced his intention to plead guilty, according to the court docket. Rocha had pleaded not guilty to all charges earlier that month.

Rocha referred to US as the enemy

Manuel Rocha, appears during an interview with an FBI undercover employee in Miami, in an undated still image from video contained in a US Justice Department indictment. - U.S. District Court/Reuters

Rocha served as the US ambassador to Bolivia from 2000 to 2002 and as the deputy principal officer of the US Interests Section in Cuba in the 1990s. He also worked for the US Embassy in the Dominican Republic in the 1980s as well as the US Consulate in Italy, and he served in different roles for US embassies in Mexico and Argentina.

His role as the political officer at the US Embassy in the Dominican Republic gave him special responsibility for Cuba, prosecutors alleged.

Rocha described being in charge of what he called the knock down of the small planes  which prosecutors believe to be an incident during Rochas tenure working for the State Department in Havana when Cuba shot down two unarmed airplanes operated by members of Brothers to the Rescue, a US-based group opposed to Castros government, killing four men.

In several meetings with an undercover FBI employee posing as a member of Cuban intelligence, Rocha repeatedly referred to the US as the enemy and praised Cuban revolutionary and politician Fidel Castro, according to court documents.

My number one concern; my number one priority was  any action on the part of Washington that would - would endanger the life of  of the leadership, or the  or the revolution itself, Rocha allegedly told an FBI undercover employee, according to a recording of a meeting cited in court documents.

CNNs Hannah Rabinowitz and Katelyn Polantz contributed to this report.

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A version of this story appeared in CNNs What Matters newsletter. To get it in your inbox, sign up for free here.

A Republican rift is jeopardizing extension of a cornerstone of the US intelligence gathering by which the government hoovers up massive amounts of internet and cellphone data.

The trove of data now in jeopardy has vital importance to the US. According to one assessment, it forms the basis of most of the intelligence the president views each morning, and it has helped the US keep tabs on Russias intentions in Ukraine, identify foreign efforts to access US infrastructure, uncover foreign terror networks and thwart terror attacks in the US.

But none of this should completely distract Americans from the very real bipartisan debate about whether new constraints should be put in place on how the government accesses the massive amount of data it collects in the program under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Acts Section 702  and the hundreds of thousands of Americans whose information is incidentally accessed each year without a warrant.

Trump misstated facts in effort to KILL FISA

In a social media post, former President Donald Trump called for Republicans to KILL FISA, claiming, incorrectly, that the portion of the law needing renewal was used to spy on his 2016 presidential campaign.

Trumps call, which came despite the fact that he reauthorized the program during his time in office, ignited a predictable revolt among right-wing Republicans. They scuttled House Speaker Mike Johnsons plan to extend the FISA Section 702 program with minimal tweaks. Democrats opposed the procedural vote en masse.

It is true that the FBI obtained warrants through FISA to wiretap Carter Page, an adviser to Trumps first presidential campaign. In that process, warrants were obtained due to Pages deep ties to Russia.

But the part of the law Trump is now trying to kill, Section 702, concerns what the US government does without warrants, a key distinction between the targeted monitoring of a US citizen like Page and the wholesale collection of massive amounts of data the government keeps locked away and routinely accesses.

When does the program end?

Lawmakers are looking for a Plan B way to extend the Section 702 authority before it lapses on April 19. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court recently OKd procedures for the program through April 2025, but if the authority lapses, it is possible that US companies could stop providing the government with data on which it is based.

What kind of data are we talking about?

Under updates to the FISA law enacted in 2008, the government has the ability to compel US phone companies and internet providers to provide access to communications across the backbone of the internet. The government can also compel access to phone information that can allow it to obtain the content of calls and also require email providers and others to provide communications from a specific address.

Its hard to quantify exactly how much data and communications this represents, but the scope is massive.

Thats not all. According to a September 2023 public oversight report by the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board  which was formed to periodically assess the program  in addition to the above methods of collecting data, the board refers to an additional highly sensitive technique that was only authorized in 2022.

What does the government do with all this data?

The trove of data, including a large portion of US internet traffic, is meant to provide US intelligence agencies with quick access to data regarding foreigners in other countries.

According to the National Security Agency, 60% of what appears in the Presidential Daily Brief has some data that comes from the 702 program. The Oversight Board report says searches of the data are critical to informing the US understanding of Russias aggression against Ukraine, foreign actors plotting cyberattacks in the US and Chinas targeting of dissidents.

How does this involve Americans?

The data of Americans is frequently accessed by what critics refer to as backdoor searches when they communicate with or their information is referenced by foreigners under scrutiny.

The 702 program has been updated in the years since its inception, including in 2018, to include new protections to minimize Americans communications from being accessed without a warrant.

But the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University cites public data that suggests the FBI conducts hundreds of thousands of such backdoor searches each year. Read more about backdoor searches from CNNs Katie Bo Lillis.

The Brennan Center noted publicly known infractions, much of them documented in that Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Report, include authorities accessing the communications of 141 Black Lives Matter protesters, members of Congress, 19,000 donors to a congressional campaign, a local political party, and tens of thousands of people involved in civil unrest.

Is there any oversight of this program?

Yes. While it does not approve individual warrants for the Intelligence Community or FBI to search through the data, a special Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court does approve procedures for how the data is to be accessed. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence has a flow chart that attempts to explain them.

What are proposed fixes?

There are bipartisan proposals to add additional protections for Americans, perhaps including a new requirement for the government to obtain a warrant before accessing most communications involving Americans.

Additionally, these proposals would bar the government from sidestepping warrant requirements by simply buying the data of Americans from so-called data brokers. Johnson dropped a proposal that was overwhelmingly endorsed by the House Judiciary Committee from the bill that failed this week.

Why not require warrants for Americans?

FBI Director Christopher Wray told House lawmakers Thursday that the warrant requirement would be harmful.

Let me be clear, he said. Failure to reauthorize 702 or gutting it with some kind of new warrant requirement would be dangerous and put American lives at risk.

He said the FBI is increasingly concerned about a coordinated terror attack inside the US and mentioned the concert hall attack in Moscow, which the US government warned Russian authorities to expect.

Speaking on CNN Thursday afternoon, former CIA Director Leon Panetta said speed can be essential when utilizing this data.

Youve gotta be able to move quickly, to be able to pick up these calls in order to determine whether or not there is an immediate threat that is taking place, he said, arguing the program helped break up attacks planned on the New York City subway.

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Wang Huning, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, meets with President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi in Beijing, capital of China, April 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning met with President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi in Beijing on Friday.

Wang, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), noted that the two countries have always respected each other, treated each other as equals in mutually beneficial cooperation, and understood and supported each other's core interests and major concerns.

China stands ready to work with Suriname to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, continuously consolidate political mutual trust, strengthen economic and trade cooperation, deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, strengthen international coordination and push for more achievements in bilateral strategic cooperative partnership, Wang said.

He added that the CPPCC National Committee is ready to make positive contributions to this end.

Santokhi said that the two countries enjoy time-honored friendship, and the Chinese community in Suriname has made important contributions to the economic and social development of Suriname.

Suriname abides by the one-China principle and is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the CPPCC National Committee and promote further development of bilateral friendly relations, Santokhi added. 

Wang Huning, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, meets with President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi in Beijing, capital of China, April 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)
Visitors and locals flock to the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. during the springtime season to see the cherry trees blossom.

Japan plans to help adorn Washington, D.C., with even more of the capital's famed cherry blossoms, a gift the Asian nation said will continue to serve as a token of an enduring friendship.

President Joe Biden confirmed news of the 250 new trees on Wednesday after welcoming Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko Kishida back to the White House.

Like our friendship  these trees are timeless, inspiring and thriving, Biden said at the ceremony. The gesture is meant to commemorate the United States' 250th birthday in July 2026.

Prime Minister Kishida is in town for a visit and state dinner, and to celebrate the deep and historic ties between the two countries.

Heres what we know.

President Joe Biden welcomes Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan to the White House in Washington on April 10, 2024.

Bond will continue to grow, just like cherry blossoms

Prime Minister Kishida said he decided to send over the trees as soon as he heard that some of the existing trees at the Tidal Basin would be replaced as a result of a multi-year rehab project by the National Park Service.

The trees also were sent to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, he said.

It is said that the cherry trees planted in this area have a lifespan of about 60 years ... (yet) the trees have shown their strong vitality, blooming beautifully for more than a 100 years without wane, Kishida said.

It's a sentiment he is confident can be applied to the Japan-U.S. alliance, saying that it will continue to grow and bloom around the world, thriving on friendship, respect and trust of the people of both countries."

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is pictured in the background of peaking cherry blossom trees in Washington, D.C., on April 12, 2015.

Cherry blossoms connect both countries, first gifted over a century ago

The White House says they welcome the gesture, one that is set to support the rehab project for Tidal Basin and West Potomac Park.

Its spring in Washington. The sun is shining. And every spring, cherry blossoms bloom across this city thanks to a gift from Japan of 3,000 cherry trees from over a century ago, Biden said. People travel all over our country and the world to see these magnificent blossoms.

The cherry trees, Biden says, were first gifted by Japan in 1912, are an enduring reminder of the close bonds of friendship between Americans and Japanese, according to The White House. It's estimated that the trees draw about 1.5 million visitors to the D.C. area every year.

Biden said that he and First Lady Jill Biden and the Kishidas "took a stroll down the driveway, across the lawn here at The White House to visit three cherry blossom trees.

"One that Jill and Mrs. Kishida planted together a year ago and the other two are part of the 250 new trees that Japan is giving to the United States," he said.

The new trees are set to be planted at the Tidal Basin not far from the Martin Luther King memorial, Biden said.

May God bless the Japanese and American people, he said.

A bee collects nectar from the flowers of a blooming Japanese cherry blossom (sakura) tree at the Stadtpark in Vienna on March 22, 2019.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Japan gifts hundreds more famed cherry blossom trees to Washington
SAN ANTONIO  An Afghan migrant on the terrorist watchlist spent nearly a year inside the U.S. after he was apprehended and released by Border Patrol agents last year, U.S. officials told NBC News. The man was arrested in February and then released last month again by an immigration judge who was not told he was a national security threat.

Mohammad Kharwin, 48, was freed on bond as he awaited an immigration hearing in Texas, scheduled for 2025, U.S. officials said. There were no restrictions on his movements inside the U.S.

Late Thursday, Kharwin was taken into custody again by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, a Homeland Security spokesperson said. A source familiar with the matter said that, "based on the information currently available, there is no reason to believe this individual entered the country as part of a terrorist mission."

Kharwin was initially apprehended on March 10, 2023, near San Ysidro, California, after having crossed the Mexico-U.S. border illegally.

Border agents suspected he was on the U.S. terrorist watchlist when he was apprehended because one piece of information matched a person on the list. But the agents lacked corroborating information, which officials declined to describe, that would confirm Kharwin was the person they suspected, U.S. officials said.

After it processed Kharwin and took his biometric data, Customs and Border Protection released him as it would any other migrant, without alerting Immigration and Customs Enforcement about possible terrorism ties, U.S. officials said.

Kharwin was referred to ICEs Alternatives to Detention Program, requiring him to check in periodically by phone with an ICE officer. He was able to apply for asylum and work authorization and fly domestically in the U.S., the officials said.

Kharwin is on the national terrorist watchlist maintained by the FBI, which includes the names of 1.8 million people considered potential security risks. The database indicates he is a member of Hezb-e-Islami, or HIG, a political and paramilitary organization that the U.S. has designated a terrorist organization.

According to the national intelligence directors office, HIG is a virulently anti-Western insurgent group that sought to overturn the Western-backed Afghan government before its fall in 2021.

HIG was responsible for attacks in Afghanistan that killed at least nine American soldiers and civilians from 2013 to 2015. The group is not seen as a top threat in terms of attacks inside the U.S.

The Biden administration has said it prioritizes migrants considered threats to national security for detention and deportation. After this article was published, a DHS spokesperson said CBP did not knowingly release a person on the terrorist watchlist.

At the time of the initial encounter, the information in the record could not have provided a conclusive match," the spokesperson said. "As soon as there was information to suggest that this individual was of concern, he was taken into custody by ICE. Law enforcement has been tracking the matter closely to protect against public safety risks.

In February, the FBI passed information to ICE indicating that Kharwin had potential terrorist ties and might pose a risk to national security. Soon after, nearly a year after he was released near the border, ICE agents conducted an operation and arrested Kharwin in San Antonio on Feb. 28, according to sources familiar with the case.

Kharwin was held in ICE detention until his court hearing March 28, when he appeared before an immigration judge in Pearsall, Texas. Immigration judges decide whether migrants can stay legally in the U.S., continue to be detained or be deported.

When ICE prosecutors appeared in court, they did not share some classified information with the judge that purportedly showed Kharwin's ties to HIG, two U.S. officials said. Prosecutors argued that he should be detained without bond because he was a flight risk, but they did not say he was a national security risk, according to sources familiar with the case.

The judge ordered Kharwin released on bond. The Justice Department, which oversees immigration judges and courts, declined to name the judge or respond to a request for official comment.

On March 30, ICE released Kharwin after he paid the $12,000 bond mandated by the immigration judge, which is higher than most bonds for migrants awaiting immigration court dates.

The judge placed no restrictions on his movements inside the U.S. but required him to appear for his next court hearing in a year. ICE has not appealed the judges decision, sources familiar with the case said.The case illustrates the challenges U.S. officials face in identifying migrants who may pose national security threats. Kharwins case is the third incident in two years in which Customs and Border Protection has released migrants with suspected terrorist ties.

A migrant with ties to the Somali terror group al-Shabaab was arrested this year in Minnesota after having lived in the U.S. for nearly a year, the Daily Caller reported.

In that case, the FBIs Terrorist Screening Center made a redetermination that he should be placed on the watchlist after he was released, the Daily Caller reported.

A report from the DHS inspector general in June reviewed an incident from April 2022 in which a migrant was released because information that would have linked him to the watchlist was not properly gathered. The report, which did not disclose the migrant's nationality, found that CBP sent a request for more information to the wrong email address.

In both cases, however, the migrants suspected of terrorist ties were taken into custody.

Jason Houser, former chief of staff for ICE in the Biden administration and a senior adviser for counterterrorism for CBP in the Obama administration, said it is rare for terrorists to cross the border and even more unusual for CBP to release someone who turns out to be a threat.

We need to make sure we have processes in place to handle them, make sure theyre detained and we know exactly where they are, he said.

Houser said that DHS is now better equipped to detect terrorists and that the number of them trying to enter the U.S. is still very low, even with record numbers of crossings at the border.

Any terrorist or terrorist-linked individual trying to come into this country is unacceptable, Houser said. But we have built across the U.S. government federal law enforcement, the intelligence community, the ability to identify these individuals.

Jason Houser, former chief of staff for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said that its rare to see people with terrorism ties come across the U.S. border but that more resources are needed. (NBC News)

On the campaign trail, Donald Trump has repeatedly turned to the threat of terrorism at the border as a reason he should be elected president again.

Terrorists are pouring in, unchecked, from all over the world, Trump wrote on Truth Social this year.

An NBC News analysis found that the percentage of migrants on the terrorist watchlist as a proportion of the total number of CBP encounters across U.S. borders was slightly lower during the Biden administration than during the Trump administration. It remained an average of 0.02% during the Biden administration, lower than the 0.05% under Trump.

In fiscal year 2023, which ended in late September and included a surge in border crossings, CBP had 736 encounters with migrants on the terrorist watchlist at U.S. borders, the most in the past six years. The second highest year was 2019, during the Trump administration, when CBP had 541 encounters with migrants on the watchlist.

It is not known whether any migrants on the watchlist were released into the U.S. during the Trump administration.

The vetting systems used to screen migrants at the border during the Biden administration are virtually the same as those used under Trump. When a migrant comes across the border between legal ports of entry, a Border Patrol agent collects the migrants name, date of birth, nationality, biometric information (like fingerprints) and photos. An agent then checks a series of national security databases to see whether there is a criminal background or whether the migrant is on the terrorist watchlist.

Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee said in a letter to DHS late last year that the terrorism watchlist is overly broad. They said having too many people on the list who pose little or no threat to the U.S. can erode the rights of travelers and prove ineffective at stopping those who mean to do harm on U.S. soil.

With a bipartisan immigration reform package blocked in Congress by pro-Trump Republicans, additional border security funding that might address the problems shown by the recent cases is unlikely.

There are fears, meanwhile, that tens of thousands of migrants are evading agents as they cross the southern border.

That is a national security threat, Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens recently told CBS News. Theyre exploiting a vulnerability thats on our border right now.

This article was updated after publication to include statements from a DHS spokesperson and a source that Kharwin had been taken into custody, that there was no reason to believe he was on a terrorist mission, and to clarify the procedures CBP followed during his release.
A man drove a stolen 18-wheeler into a Texas Department of Public Safety building Friday, killing one person and injuring 13 others, according to local officials.

The driver of the stolen 18-wheeler was identified as Clenard Parker, 42, from Chappell Hill, law enforcement officials said in a Friday news conference. He was uninjured and taken into custody.

Parker was denied his commercial drivers license at the Brenham DPS office on Thursday afternoon, according to authorities and was fleeing pursuing deputies at the time of the crash.

This is a tragic day for us, department regional supervisor Gerald Brown said at the news conference. My heart and prayers goes out to the family members of those that are injured, as well as those that are injured.

Parker was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon causing serious bodily injury, one count of evading arrest or detention causing serious bodily injury, and one count of unauthorized use of a vehicle, Texas DPS Sgt. Justin Ruiz told CNN on Monday. The DPS on Thursday filed additional charges, including one for felony murder.

Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura described the incident as a really senseless tragedy at the news conference.

He added the suspect seemed to have been backing up with the intent of ramming the building a second time.

Our fire chief mentioned that if he had veered a little bit to the left the second time, there would have been a collapse of that building, which would have resulted in a lot more injuries and possible death, the mayor said.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he and his wife are saddened to hear of the tragic incident at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in Brenham in a post on X. Join us in praying for the Texan who passed, those injured, and their loved ones. I thank first responders for their swift response. Texas will bring this heinous criminal to justice.

We believe this was a criminal act, Washington County Sheriff Otto Hanak told CNN affiliate KHOU on Friday.

The DPS announced the arrest on X and said, There is no further threat to the community.

Aerial footage from CNN affiliate KTRK shows a semi with a flatbed trailer loaded with what appears to be rebar. A large gap is seen in the front of the building and the vehicles cab is severely damaged.

Brenham is about 70 miles northwest of Houston.

CNNs Sara Weisfeldt and Rosa Flores contributed to this report

This story has been updated with additional information.

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WASHINGTON  A member of a neo-Nazi group pleaded guilty to Capitol riot charges Thursday, admitting he threw a water bottle at police during the brutal battle at the lower west tunnel and stole a police helmet as a "war trophy" during the Jan. 6 attack.

Richard Zachary Ackerman pleaded guilty to two charges: obstructing law enforcement officers during civil disorder and theft of government property. He had initially faced three additional charges: assault, resist, oppose, impede with a person engaged in performance of official duties; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; and disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds. Those charges will be dismissed under a plea agreement.

Richard Zachary Ackerman at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (U.S. District Court)

In the court filing Thursday, Ackerman admitted bragging that he stole a SWAT team officer's helmet, which he labeled a "war trophy." The FBI said it had received a tip that included a photo of a U.S. Capitol Police helmet that included a "New England 131" sticker on it on Jan. 8, 2021, two days after the attack.

An FBI task force officer said "New England131" referred to the "Nationalist Socialist Club 131" and the "White Defense Force" and described NSC-131 as "a neo-Nazi group with small, autonomous regional chapters in the United States and abroad, whose members see themselves as soldiers at war with a hostile, Jewish-controlled system that is deliberately plotting the extinction of the white race."

A confidential FBI human source attended a 2021 meeting with members of NSC-131, where a member known online as "Zach Parker" talked about being at the Capitol on Jan. 6 and said he still had the helmet at his residence, according to the FBI task force officer.

Richard Zachary Ackerman wearing the U.S. Capitol Police helmet. (U.S. District Court)

Ackerman flew to Germany in July 2021 and was subject to a secondary inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, according to the FBI. Agents who searched his phone said they found conversations in which Ackerman bragged about being at the Capitol. One person he spoke with told him to go home and not to get arrested, saying Ackerman "won't be able to be a Marine" if he was arrested. (Jan. 6 rioters James Mault and Aiden Bilyard joined the military after they took part in the attack, while numerous other rioters were active-duty members of the military when they took part in the riot.)

In 2022, agents obtained a search warrant for Ackerman's residence, spoke with a man who identified himself as Ackerman's father and found a Capitol Police helmet in the fireplace of his basement bedroom, the FBI said.

Richard Zachary Ackerman, right, wearing the U.S. Capitol Police helmet at the Capitol riots in 2021. (U.S. District Court)

Ackerman was first arrested in New Hampshire in June and has been on pretrial release ever since. He will remain on release until at least his sentencing before U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly, which is scheduled for July 25.

As NBC News reported, out of more than 1,380 Jan. 6 defendants, just 15 are being held in pretrial detention at the order of a federal judge. All other Jan. 6 rioters behind bars are there because they either admitted in court that they engaged in criminal activity on Jan. 6 or because judges or unanimous juries found them to have committed crimes.

Prosecutors have secured convictions against an estimated 984 defendants so far, and hundreds of additional rioters have been identified by online "sedition hunters" but not yet arrested. Of the roughly 859 defendants who have been sentenced, about 520 have been given at least some period of incarceration, according to the Justice Department, with sentences from a few days behind bars to 22 years in prison.
By Alvise Armellini

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) -Pope Francis will travel to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Singapore from Sept. 2-13, the Vatican said on Friday, announcing his first overseas trip of the year and the longest of his 11-year papacy.

The Asia trip has been on the papal agenda for some time, but there had been doubts on whether the 87-year-old pontiff would embark on it given his increasing frailty, with a record of skipping engagements due to health problems.

His last international journey was a two-day stay in Marseille, France in September. In November, he pulled out of a trip to the COP28 climate conference in Dubai because of a lung inflammation.

Francis is now scheduled to be in Jakarta between Sept. 3-6, Port Moresby and Vanimo between Sept. 6-9, Dili Sept. 9-11 and Singapore Sept. 11-13, his spokesman said in a statement.

Vietnam, which had been suggested by the pope and Vatican officials as a possible further destination during the nearly two-week long Asia trip, was not mentioned.

In recent months, the pope has been suffering on and off from what have been described as a cold, bronchitis and influenza, and he needs a wheelchair or a cane to move around due to a knee ailment.

His agenda this year also foresees Italian day trips to Venice on Apr. 28, Verona on May 18 and Trieste on July 7, and a visit to Belgium whose dates have not been confirmed, but expected in the second half of September.

The Argentine pope, the first from the so-called Global South, has made reaching out to Asia one of the priorities of his pontificate, during which the Vatican has struck a historic, yet contested, deal with China on bishop appointments.

Indonesia is the world's most populous Muslim nation and its 8 million Catholics represent about 3% of the total population. Timor-Leste, along with the Philippines, are Asia's only predominantly Catholic countries.

In Singapore, Catholics comprise about 7% of residents aged 15 or above, according to a 2020 census, while in Papua New Guinea about 26% of the population are Catholics, according to a religious freedom report by the U.S. State Department.

(Reporting by Alvise Armellini; editing by Gianluca Semeraro and Mark Heinrich)
By Krishn Kaushik

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - In a campaign video clip, India's ruling party credits Prime Minister Narendra Modi for halting the Russia-Ukraine war two years ago so the government could rescue and repatriate nearly 20,000 stranded Indian students.

In the video, a young woman rushes to her middle-aged parents waiting outside an airport building, hugs them and says between sobs, I had told you, no matter what the situation, Modi ji will bring us home. He stopped the war, Papa, and got us out.

Modi shared the video on his YouTube page on March 10 this year, under the caption: "Safety & security of all Indians assured as they are Modi's Family". It has since gathered nearly 650,000 views.

At the time, Indian officials dismissed suggestions that New Delhi had prevailed on Moscow to delay the assault to allow evacuation of its citizens.

India votes in a general election starting on April 19 and Modi, who polls project will convincingly win a rare third term in office, has made the country's global standing and foreign policy an unusual electoral plank.

Indian elections are fought usually on domestic issues like prices, caste equations and allegations of corruption. Foreign policy is almost never a part of campaign rhetoric except for conflicts or tensions in the neighbourhood.

But this February, in a poll published by the India Today group, 19% of the 35,000 respondents said Modi will be most remembered for "raising India's global stature.

It was the second-most popular response, after 42% claimed Modi's top achievement was building a temple to the Hindu deity Ram at a contested site, which he had inaugurated less than a month earlier.

In recent years, India has hosted the G20 summit of world leaders, forged deeper defence, strategic and technology ties with the U.S., become the fifth-largest economy in the world and landed a spacecraft on the unexplored south pole of the moon.

In the election campaign, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is painting New Delhi's rising world stature and more assertive foreign policy as major achievements of the Modi administration, alongside its Hindu nationalist agenda and rapid economic growth.

"We are playing our cards adroitly," BJP's national executive member Vinay Sahasrabuddhe told Reuters. "Keeping the political arithmetic and political geography also in our mind is a smart strategy. What is wrong in that?"

CHANGE IN STYLE

Analysts say New Delhi has never been meek in its foreign policy, but it has become more robust in the 10 years under Modi.

"It's more a change in style and rhetoric rather than substance, on which there is continuity in Indian foreign policy," said Ashok Kantha, a retired diplomat.

Still, Canadian accusations of Indian agents being involved in a murder near Vancouver resulted in New Delhi expelling more than 40 of its diplomats.

Despite Western criticism and pressure, India bought record levels of Russian oil since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, and has maintained close ties with Moscow.

While India has denied any role in killing of wanted militants overseas, Modi and his defence minister have said in a campaign speech that the new India will not hesitate to cross borders to kill terrorists.

Modi said at a campaign rally this month that India was "considered a weak and poor country" under the previous Congress party administration.

"Today the world is witnessing how much Indias reputation and status have grown in just ten years," he said.

He asked the crowd, "Who did this?" "Modi did it," they chanted in reply. To which he said: "Modi has not done it, you have done it. Your vote has done it."

Challenging this narrative, the Congress in its manifesto has promised to "work to repair Indias international image that has been damaged by the present governments intolerance of dissent and suppression of human rights".

'MINCES NO WORDS'

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's suave and sometimes acerbic foreign minister, is the person most identified with the country's recent assertiveness on the international stage.

Last June, Jaishankar was asked repeatedly at a panel in Bratislava about India's purchases of Russian oil, which increased even as Western capitals slapped sanctions on Moscow in response to the invasion of Ukraine.

Jaishankar said: "Europe has to grow out of the mindset that Europe's problems are the world's problems, but the world's problems are not Europe's problems."

Video of this response, like many of his others as a minister, are often shared on social media platforms in India, and have millions of views on YouTube.

Jaishankar, who is from India's diplomatic corps and has been envoy to China and the U.S., has become Modi's chief spokesman for the world, and translator of foreign policy for the domestic audience.

BJP's Sahasrabuddhe said the "apex level leadership is very clear about the approach, that we will not offend anybody but if some country offends us we will not take it lightly".

Jaishankar, he said, articulates this in an effective manner. "Articulation these days has become so very critical, and on that count his contribution is remarkable. He minces no words."

Jaishankar's office turned down multiple requests for an interview.

In his book 'Why Bharat Matters' released in January, Jaishankar wrote that India sees "no contradiction in espousing internationalism abroad while articulating nationalism at home".

Indians are more globally aware now because of travel, the internet and the diaspora, and expect the country should receive more recognition and respect on the international stage, said Rohan Mukherjee, an assistant professor of international relations at the London School of Economics.

The BJP, he said, "has understood the pulse of a rising nation and worked hard to cultivate the idea that Indias standing in the world has risen on their watch. So ultimately, there is both demand and supply for foreign policy to be a campaign issue."

However, foreign affairs analysts warned that while this assertiveness in the international arena is applauded by the domestic audience, it may not always play well overseas.

"Sometimes, it's better to seek your interests under the radar, so to say, rather than engage in megaphone diplomacy, because that causes apprehensions and also push back at times," said Kantha, the retired diplomat.

(Reporting by Krishn Kaushik; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
PHOENIX  Arizonas attorney general said she will do all she can to mitigate the impacts of the Civil War-era abortion ban that the states Supreme Court ruled was enforceable this week.

Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat, told NBC News in an in-person interview on Thursday that her office is pursuing refusing to prosecute abortion providers and patients and to help Arizona doctors obtain licenses in other states after the court decided in favor of the 1864 near-total abortion ban Tuesday.

I totally understand the fear that doctors, pharmacists and nurses are having right now in the face of the knowledge that we are barreling toward the potential implementation of this 1864 ban, Mayes said. Thats why Im working with other states on avenues for potentially having them go to those states to practice medicine in the near term. One of my visions is that potentially we could have a safe haven in California for our doctors, nurses and abortion providers.

The 1864 Arizona law outlawed abortion from the moment of conception, with an exception to save the womans life. It made abortion a felony punishable by two to five years in prison for anyone who performed an abortion or helped a person obtain one. Tuesdays decision effectively undoes a lower courts ruling that a recent 15-week ban superseded the law.

The state Supreme Court said Tuesday it would put its decision on hold for 14 days so a lower court can consider additional constitutional challenges. Reproductive rights advocates can appeal the ruling in the two-week window. Meanwhile, a separate, ongoing suit would allow abortion providers to continue providing services through the 15th week of pregnancy until the end of May.

Shortly after the ruling, Mayes declared in a statement, As long as I am Attorney General, no woman or doctor will be prosecuted under this draconian law in this state.

She said Thursday: I was elected for this moment. This is about freedom and our ability to control our own bodies. And so we will do everything that it takes to accomplish that.

Abortion providers like Dr. Ronald Yunis, of Acacias Women Center in Phoenix, said that while he appreciates Mayes promise, it may mean little for doctors like him who wouldnt be legally allowed to treat patients without fear of arrest. Its still against the law, Yunis pointed out. If its illegal, I cannot perform abortions.

Asked about those concerns Thursday, Mayes said her office is going to use the 45 days to fight the ban so it is never implemented. She said she will work with Arizona providers to get them licensed to provide care in California temporarily until voters can weigh in on a ballot measure to enshrine abortion rights in the states constitution this fall.

I understand a doctor saying, I cant do this, Ive got to provide for my family, I dont want to lose my license, I dont want to go to prison for two to five years, Mayes acknowledged. My message to them is Im going to do everything I can to fight for you as attorney general of Arizona.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has said that his state remains ready to help Arizonans access reproductive health care. In a statement from his office, spokesman Brandon Richards said that California has been preparing for an influx of patients needing reproductive health care since before Roe v Wade was overturned.

"We are also working in close coordination with the Arizona Governors office to ensure Arizonans know that California has their back and have resources available should they seek care in our state," the statement reads.

Tuesdays ruling is the latest setback for abortion rights since the Supreme Court, in 2022, overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling, which guaranteed a constitutional right to abortion. Ahead of the decision, about half the states indicated they would limit abortion access if Roe v. Wade was struck down. Since then, nearly two dozen have banned abortions or severely restricted access, kicking off a wave of legal challenges in the states. Arizona reproductive rights groups and advocates have protested across the state since the ruling as abortion providers wrestle with how to move forward.
WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden announced Friday that his administration is canceling $7.4 billion in student loans for 277,000 borrowers.

The White House said the latest round of relief helps borrowers enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan as well as those in income-driven repayment or Public Service Loan Forgiveness plans. On the SAVE plan, an income-driven repayment plan that took effect last summer, the new policy will allow those who took out smaller loans to have the debt canceled more quickly, the Education Department said.

Image: Joe Biden (Evan Vucci / AP)

With its latest move, the administration has now canceled $153 billion for 4.3 million Americans, the White House said.

"Todays announcement comes on top of the significant progress weve made for students and borrowers over the past three years," Biden said in a statement. "That includes: providing the largest increases to the maximum Pell Grant in over a decade; fixing Public Service Loan Forgiveness so teachers, nurses, police officers, and other public service workers get the relief they are entitled to under the law, and holding colleges accountable for taking advantage of students and families."

Biden said that since taking office in 2021, he has "promised to fight to ensure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity."

"I will never stop working to cancel student debt  no matter how many times Republican elected officials try to stop us," he said.

Earlier this week, Biden announced revised plans to cancel student debt that when implemented would provide relief to more than 30 million Americans "when combined with actions the Administration has taken over the last three years," the White House said.

The Education Department said that the new plans would waive accrued and capitalized interest for millions of borrowers, automatically discharge debt for borrowers otherwise eligible for loan forgiveness under the SAVE or other plans, eliminate student debt for borrowers in repayment for 20 years or more, help those enrolled in low-financial-value programs, and assist borrowers who experience hardship in repaying their loans.

The public will have an opportunity to comment on the proposed actions "in the coming weeks," the department said.

The administration introduced the current efforts to provide student debt relief after the Supreme Court struck down Bidens original student debt relief program, which aimed to cancel up to $20,000 in debt for about 43 million borrowers.
(Reuters) -Chinese officials directed the country's largest telecom carriers earlier this year to phase out foreign chips that are key to their networks by 2027, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, citing people familiar with the development.

The move would impact U.S. chip giants Intel and Advanced Micro Devices, according to the report. Their shares were down more than 1.5% in premarket trading.

Intel declined to comment, while AMD did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Beijing has ramped up efforts to replace Western-made technology with domestic alternatives amid Sino-U.S. tensions, as Washington tightens curbs on high-tech exports to its rival, Reuters reported late last year.

State-owned enterprises were instructed in 2022 to replace office software systems with domestic products by 2027, the first time such specific deadlines were imposed, according to five brokerage firms that cited a September 2022 order from China's state asset regulator. Reuters could not independently verify the order.

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology ordered state-owned mobile operators to inspect their networks for non-Chinese semiconductors and map out timelines to replace them, the WSJ report said.

Beijing had introduced guidelines to phase out U.S. chips from Intel and AMD from government personal computers and servers, the Financial Times had reported in March.

China was Intel's largest market last year and was responsible for more than 27% of its total revenue.

Procurements by Chinese telecom carriers show they are increasingly switching to domestic options. This has been made possible in part by the improved quality and stability of local chips, according to the WSJ report.

(Reporting by Akanksha Khushi and Harshita Mary Varghese in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur and Pooja Desai)
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) on Thursday confirmed previous reports that Russia-linked hackers tapped into correspondence between federal agencies and Microsoft.

The agency publicly issued an emergency directive Thursday in which it told agencies that were affected by the breach to take actions including taking steps to identify the full content of the agency correspondence with compromised Microsoft accounts and perform a cybersecurity impact analysis. CISA described those behind the breach as a Russian state-sponsored cyber actor known as Midnight Blizzard.

For several years, the U.S. government has documented malicious cyber activity as a standard part of the Russian playbook; this latest compromise of Microsoft adds to their long list. We will continue efforts in collaboration with our federal government and private sector partners to protect and defend our systems from such threat activity, CISA Director Jen Easterly said in a CISA press release.

Microsoft said in March that Midnight Blizzard had been trying to breach its systems by way of using information initially exfiltrated from our corporate email systems to gain, or attempt to gain, unauthorized access. In January, Microsoft brought to light that it had detected a nation-state attack on its corporate systems from Midnight Blizzard and that hackers got access to a very small percentage of corporate email accounts.

It is apparent that Midnight Blizzard is attempting to use secrets of different types it has found, Microsoft said in a March blog post.

Those secrets include ones shared between Microsoft and customers by way of email, and the company said it would inform and assist them with mitigating measures.

Microsoft also said that Midnight Blizzard increased the volume of specific types of attacks, like password sprays, by as much as tenfold in February. Password sprays are a type of cyberattack that is characterized by the repetitive use of the same password on different accounts to try and breach them.

The Hill has reached out to Microsoft for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Though hyped as a forum for fostering "peace and security" in the Asia-Pacific region, the just concluded U.S.-Japan-Philippines summit on Thursday actually served as a sharp reminder of Washington's divisive policy of inciting conflict and strife in Asia.

The trilateral summit, the first of its kind, followed a four-way military drill with Australia in the South China Sea. During the summit on Thursday, the three countries also announced joint patrols later this year near the South China Sea.

Washington has a long history of leveraging its military and economic power to sway the policies and decisions of its allies, including the Philippines.

Since Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. took office as president of the Philippines, Manila, incited by Washington, has adopted an increasingly confrontational stance against China.

Imee Marcos, Marcos' sister and chair of the Philippine Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, recently warned against the government's latest measures to counter China in the South China Sea, saying that such actions are leading the country down a "dangerous path."

Amid flaring tensions in the South China Sea, the White House on Thursday escalated its provocative stance by claiming its "ironclad" defense commitment to the Philippines.

By asserting that "any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels, or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty," Washington not only tries to legitimize the Philippines' confrontational approach but also emboldens further provocations by Manila.

Such reckless endorsements only encourage countries like the Philippines to take even more dangerous actions when what is actually needed is diplomacy.

The United States, by forming exclusive cliques with its allies in the region, is also sabotaging the efforts and commitment of China and ASEAN to properly manage and resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation between the states directly involved.

Washington has a long track record of disruptive meddling. Following its blood-soaked interventions in the Middle East, it has been pivoting to Asia.

This pivot is motivated by Washington's relentless pursuit of domination in the Asia-Pacific, the world's most economically dynamic region, and its strategic choice to contain China, which it views as a long-term strategic competitor and "most consequential geopolitical challenge."

For that hegemonic end, Washington has been seeking to sideline established political, economic, and security cooperation mechanisms in the Asia-Pacific. It has effectively undermined the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework, a meticulously crafted and time-honored structure developed over past decades.

And in recent years, Washington has been tirelessly spinning a regional security and military web against China. It has reinforced the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, strengthened the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the Quad, and bolstered the AUKUS nuclear partnership by trying to strengthen cooperation with Japan.

The overarching goal is clear: By fomenting bloc confrontation and cultivating an atmosphere of insecurity in the Asia-Pacific, Washington aims to consolidate its hegemonic position in the Asia-Pacific, dictating the security agenda and exerting control over its allies and partners.

Many countries in the region have refused to be coerced into taking sides, knowing that such moves risk increasing tensions in the region, undermining the notion of "indivisible security" and fuelling mistrust. Malaysia, Singapore, and other regional states have expressed similar views.

China, a member of the Asia-Pacific family, has always advocated for the building of open, non-exclusive circles of friends with an inclusive mind, while rejecting exclusive small blocs. China and the majority of ASEAN countries have also been committed to properly managing their differences and disputes through peaceful means.

Beijing's aspiration and endeavors have won the hearts of people in the Asia Pacific. According to a recent report titled "The State of Southeast Asia 2024" by the Yusof Ishak Institute, a Singapore-based think tank, more than half of people in Southeast Asia favor China over the United States.

Moreover, the survey showed that over 60 percent of the Southeast Asian population endorses the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, indicating the resonance of the Chinese vision.

Though facing strong headwinds, the Asia-Pacific remains the world's most dynamic engine for economic growth. Its remarkable development over recent decades has been fueled by the principles of openness, cooperation, and inclusiveness.

Washington's attempts to undermine this progress by imposing a beggar-thy-neighbor policy and inciting bloc confrontation pose a serious threat to the region's cooperative framework. Countries in the region must remain vigilant against following the United States' destructive agenda. 
By Arshad Mohammed and Simon Lewis

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The security and defense relationship between the U.S. and Iraq will be an important part of talks when Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani visits Washington next week but is not the primary focus of the visit, a senior State Department official said on Thursday.

The official, who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity, said the emphasis of Sudani's visit would be economic ties, even as Washington and Baghdad are in talks over ending the U.S.-led military coalition in the country.

U.S. forces and Shi'ite Muslim armed groups have engaged in tit-for-tat attacks in recent months amid regional conflict linked to Israel's war in Gaza, leading to Sudani in January announcing his intention to end the U.S. military presence.

The senior State Department official said the defense and security relationship will be part of the discussions during Sudani's visit, when he will meet both with President Joe Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin as well as Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

(It is) likely to be a very important part of our  of the discussion, the official said. It is not the primary focus of the visit ... but it is almost certainly going to come up."

The visit's focus will instead be the economy and issues including education, environment and U.S. support for development, the official said, without providing details.

We're going to have a full range of discussions about our relationship and where it's going," the official said.

The U.S. invaded Iraq in 2003 to topple Saddam Hussein and withdrew in 2011, only for troops to return in 2014 to help fight Islamic State (IS) after the extremist Sunni Muslim militant group overran large parts of the country.

Washington and Baghdad began talks in January to reassess the U.S.-led military coalition presence there.

The official said those talks were likely to lead to a second joint security cooperation dialogue later this year.

(Reporting by Arshad Mohammed and Simon Lewis; Editing by Chris Reese and Daniel Wallis)
By Nidal al-Mughrabi

GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli forces fought Palestinian militants in the north and centre of the Gaza Strip on Friday as Khaled Meshaal, a senior official in Gaza's ruling Hamas movement, said its six-month-old battle with Israel would "break the enemy soon".

Most Israeli troops have been pulled out of the Palestinian enclave in preparation for an assault on its southernmost city Rafah, where more than 1 million Palestinians are sheltering, but fighting has continued in various areas.

Residents of Al-Nusseirat camp in central Gaza said dozens were dead or wounded after Israeli bombardment from air, land and sea that had followed a surprise ground assault on Thursday, and that houses and two mosques had been destroyed.

Health officials said earlier that six people had been killed in strikes on the cinder-block camp, which has housed Palestinian refugee families since 1948, with around 70 wounded, including three Palestinian journalists.

In Gaza City, Palestinian health officials said at least 25 people had been killed and several wounded in an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Al-Daraj neighbourhood. Gaza's health ministry said 89 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli military strikes in the space of 24 hours.

The Israeli military (IDF) said in a statement that it was pursuing "a precise intelligence-based operation" against militants and their infrastructure in central Gaza.

"Over the past day, IDF fighter jets struck over 60 terror targets in the Gaza Strip, including underground launch posts, military infrastructure and sites in which armed terrorists operated," it said. "In parallel, IDF artillery struck terrorist infrastructure in the central Gaza Strip."

In a statement, Hamas said Israel's bombardment in Al-Nusseirat targeted civilian homes and property "after failing to achieve any military accomplishment on the ground or to implement any of its criminal agendas by displacing our people".

Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians, accusing Hamas of using residential buildings for cover. Hamas denies this.

Meshaal, who lives in exile and heads Hamas' political office in the diaspora, spoke at an event in Doha, Qatar to mourn members of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's family killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza on Wednesday.

"This is not the final round," Meshaal said, referring to the current war. "It is an important round on the path of liberating Palestine and defeating the Zionist project."

At least 33,634 Palestinians, including 89 in the past 24 hours, have been killed since the Israeli offensive began, Gaza's health ministry said in an update on Friday, with most of the 2.3 million population displaced and much of the densely populated enclave demolished.

The war began when Hamas led a lightning cross-border attack into southern Israel on Oct. 7 in which 1,200 people were killed and 253 taken hostage. Around 130 are still being held incommunicado in Gaza, Israel says.

Deflecting repeated U.S. calls for restraint, Israel vows to storm Rafah because, it says, significant Hamas combat forces are hiding there after being routed elsewhere.

In the latest sign that an Israeli assault on Rafah could be imminent, warplanes dropped leaflets on a western neighbourhood asking for information about the hostages.

To residents of Tel Al-Sultan, look carefully around you, the hostages could be somewhere near you. If you want to protect your families and your future, dont hesitate to provide us with any information about the hostages and their captors, the leaflets read.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting and writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Mark Heinrich)
By Bhanvi Satija and Eva Mathews

(Reuters) -The European Union drug regulator found no evidence that a class of diabetes and weight-loss drugs such as Novo Nordisk's hugely popular Wegovy, are linked to suicidal thoughts, it said on Friday, ending a nine-month probe.

The regulator's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee, which monitors drugs' side effects, said that no updates were required to the treatments' product information after reviewing the available evidence.

Shares of Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk rose more than 2% after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) released its findings. Novo said it will continue to monitor any reports of adverse drug reactions, including suicide and suicidal thoughts.

The finding comes after EMA extended in December its review into the class of weight-loss and diabetes drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, to get more data from drugmakers to further investigate the issue.

The analysis started in July after Iceland's health regulator flagged three cases of patients thinking about suicide or self-harm after using Novo's drugs.

The review focused on medicines that contain either semaglutide or liraglutide, both GLP-1 targeting compounds. Liraglutide is the active ingredient in Novo's weight-loss treatment Saxenda while semaglutide is the active ingredient in Wegovy and top-selling diabetes treatment Ozempic.

The EMA analysed results from a large US study and did not find a direct association between the use of semaglutide and suicidal thoughts.

Results from another study conducted by EMA also did not support a link between GLP-1 drugs and risk of suicidal thoughts. Both the studies were based on electronic health records.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's preliminary review in January also found no link between GP-1 drugs and suicidal thoughts or actions.

"I hope it's reassuring to patients and prescribers that after a thorough review by two regulatory agencies ... there does not appear to be an increased risk of suicidal behavior," said Dr. Robert Kushner, professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

"I don't discount when people feel a change in their emotional or mental health when they take the medication, but that needs further ... assessment by the prescriber," Kushner said.

Britain's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has been reviewing a possible link between GLP-1 drugs and suicidal or self-harming thoughts since July last year.

Dr. Alison Cave, the agency's chief safety officer said that the review continued and the agency would "communicate any further advice to patients and healthcare professionals as appropriate."

GLP-1 receptor agonists, originally developed to help control blood sugar in patients with diabetes in Novo's Nordisk's Ozempic and Mounjaro developed by Eli Lilly, also slow digestion and reduce hunger.

Novo's Ozempic and Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Mounjaro have so far proved relatively safe. Their clinical trials did not show suicide risk.

But doctors are on the lookout for previously undocumented dangers as hundreds of thousands of new patients start taking these drugs to lose weight.

Heightened suicide risks have caused regulators to issue strong warnings on obesity drugs in the past, with Sanofi's Acomplia, which never won U.S. approval, being withdrawn in Europe in 2008 after being linked to suicidal thoughts.

PRAC had said in October that it did not find a causal link between GLP-1 drugs and thyroid cancer after a review.

(Reporting by Manas Mishra, Eva Mathews and Bhanvi Satija in Bengaluru; editing by Arun Koyyur, Elaine Hardcastle and Tomasz Janowski)
Terrie Morrow has always considered herself somewhat of a family historian, so when she heard that "Finding Your Roots" was searching for viewers to appear on an episode of the PBS show, she was thrilled. But she almost missed her opportunity to decode a mystery that has troubled her family for over a century.

The casting was about to wrap up by the time I saw it, she tells TODAY.com.

After asking her mother and uncle for their blessing, the Alabama resident submitted her application, not thinking that they would ever really contact me.

Even when PBS reached out to let Morrow know shed been selected to appear on the show, she didnt initially notice their email. The network followed up and she ended up signing on to appear on the show just in the nick of time.

Morrow, who works as a school bus driver, has been researching her family tree since her early 20s and says it has become a "forever project."

Ive always been inquisitive. I heard somewhere that nosy people like history, so I figured out I must be nosy," she says.

Morrow has certainly learned a lot on her own, but she was eager to see if the "Finding Your Roots" team could find out why her great-grandfather's mother abandoned him as a child.

What happened to Morrow's great-grandfather?

When Morrow's great-grandfather Walter Tagger was 5 years old, his mother, Lenora Kirkland Chambers, left him with another family. For a few years, she wrote him letters and sent money. But then Tagger never heard from her again.

While talking with "Finding Your Roots" host Henry Louis Gates Jr. in the "Viewers Like You" episode that aired on April 9, Morrow explains why this mystery has haunted her for so long.

"Papa was important to me. But he cant be here to solve that mystery ... Who wouldn't want to know what happened to their mother? So in his stead, for me to try to find out as much as I can, any answer is better than the answer that he had, which was nothing," she says.

While researching Morrow's family, the PBS team discovers that Chambers was white and Tagger's father, a married man named Hal Moore, was Black. At the time, interracial sex and marriage was illegal, so they could never have stayed together.

Terrie Morrow on

Chambers went on to start her own family with a white man and had two additional children. In a future census, she only listed two children, a fact that somewhat stings when Morrow hears it.

Im not mad at her. I feel bad for her because as a mother you dont forget. You have to forget on paper when people question you. You have to pretend. But as a mother you dont forget," she says.

Still, Morrow thinks her great-grandfather would've found comfort in knowing that Chambers' other children took care of her later in life. Sadly, both Chambers and her daughter Mary ended up dying around the same time and Mary's daughter was sent to live in an orphanage.

After learning more about Chambers' life, Morrow says she understands why she chose to leave Tagger, even if it was a heart-wrenching decision.

She made a choice that saved her life, saved his life and brought me into the world, she says. She made the choice and I can honestly say I appreciate the choice that she made.

A life-changing appearance on 'Finding Your Roots'

Morrow has been watching Finding Your Roots since it went by another name, African-American Lives, and she's seen plenty of celebrities make life-changing discoveries about their ancestry.

Speaking to TODAY.com, Morrow says the show led to revelations of her own.

Being on the show is a dream for me. But my very existence is a culmination of the dreams of all (my ancestors). And that is the big deal for me, to know that there are so many people before me that every time I wake up, I am the somebody that they were looking forward to for their future, she says.

For Morrow, the best and hardest part of appearing on the show came from the same thing: Getting answers to the question that shed wondered about for so long.

"It was good to get them and hard to know that I couldnt share them with some of those folks that it really would have meant the world to," she says.

Morrow describes her great-grandfather as a gem who made a good, happy life for himself despite the challenges he faced as a child. She also says her family was thrilled to learn more about his history.

"We answered a mystery that has been almost 140 years in the making," she says.

To celebrate her appearance on "Finding Your Roots," Morrow's family arranged to have a reunion timed to the episode's air date. The Alabama public television community also hosted a dinner on her behalf.

After filming her episode, Morrow even began doing some additional independent research on her own, and she's more hooked than ever on ancestry matters now.

"Every family member is a part of some history," she says.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
RUN TA EK, Cambodia (AP)  Its been more than a year since Yem Srey Pin moved with her family from the village where she was born on Cambodias Angkor UNESCO World Heritage site to Run Ta Ek, a dusty new settlement about 25 kilometers (15 miles) away.

Hers is one of about 5,000 families relocated from the sprawling archaeological site, one of Southeast Asias top tourist draws, by Cambodian authorities in an ongoing program that Amnesty International has condemned as a gross violation of international human rights law. Another 5,000 families are still due to be moved.

The allegations have drawn strong expressions of concern from UNESCO and a spirited rebuttal from Cambodian authorities, who say theyre doing nothing more than protecting the heritage land from illegal squatters.

Yem Srey Pins single-room home is a far cry better than the makeshift tent she lived in with her husband and five children when they first arrived, which did little to protect from the monsoon rains and blew down in the winds.

And their 600-square-meter (about 6,500 square foot) property is significantly bigger than the 90-square-meter (about 1,000 square foot) plot they occupied illegally in the village of Khvean on the Angkor site.

But the 35-year-old is also in debt from building the new house. Her husband finds less construction work nearby and his wages are lower, and there are no wild fruits or vegetables she can forage, nor rice paddies where she can collect crabs to sell at her mothers stand.

After more than a year here I havent been able to save any money and I havent earned anything, she said.

The Angkor site is one of the largest archaeological sites in the world, spread across some 400 square kilometers (155 square miles) in northwestern Cambodia. It contains the ruins of Khmer Empire capitals from the 9th to 15th centuries, including the temple of Angkor Wat.

When it was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1992, it was named a living heritage site whose local population observed ancestral traditions and cultural practices that have disappeared elsewhere.

Still, UNESCO at the time noted that Angkor was under dual pressures from some 100,000 inhabitants in 112 historic settlements who constantly try to expand their dwelling areas, and from encroachment from the nearby town of Siem Reap.

Cambodias answer was a plan to entice the 10,000 families illegally squatting in the area to resettle at Run Ta Ek and another site, as well as to encourage some from the 112 historic settlements to relocate as their families grow in size.

The number of people were on the rise, including those coming illegally, said Long Kosal, spokesperson for the Cambodian agency known as APSARA thats responsible for managing the Angkor site. What we did was that we provided an option.

Cambodia began moving people to Run Ta Ek in 2022, giving those who volunteered to leave their homes in the Angkor area plots of land, a two-month supply of canned food and rice, a tarp and 30 sheets of corrugated metal to use to build a home. Benefits also included a Poor Card, essentially a state welfare program giving them around 310,000 riel (about $75) monthly for 10 years.

In a November report, Amnesty questioned how voluntary the relocations actually were, saying many people they interviewed were threatened or coerced into moving and that the relocations were more forced evictions in disguise.

The rights group cited a speech from former Prime Minister Hun Sen in which he said people must either leave the Angkor site soon and receive some form of compensation or be evicted at a later time and receive nothing.

Amnesty also noted Hun Sens track record, saying that under his long-time rule Cambodian authorities had been responsible for several forced evictions elsewhere that it alleged constituted gross violations of human rights. It said Run Ta Ek  with dirt roads, insufficient drainage, poor sanitation and other issues  did not fulfil international obligations under human rights treaties to provide people adequate housing.

That has now changed: Homes with outhouses have been built, roads paved, and sewers installed. Primitive hand pumps made of blue PVC piping provide water, and electricity has been run in.

Theres a school, a health center, a temple; bus routes were added, and a market area was built but is not yet operating, Long Kosal said.

But Amnesty maintains there are major concerns.

Among other things, families have had to take on heavy debt to build even basic houses, and there is little work to be found, said Montse Ferrer, the head of Amnestys research team investigating the Angkor Wat resettlements.

They had a clear source of income at the time  tourism  but also other sources of income linked to the location at Angkor," she said. "They are now at least 30 minutes away from the site and can no longer access these sources.

Following Amnestys scathing report, UNESCO moved up the timeline for Cambodias submission of its own report on the state of conservation at the Angkor site, specifically asking for the allegations to be addressed.

In that report, submitted to UNESCO in March, Cambodia said it had not violated any international laws with the relocations, saying it was only moving people involved in the illegal occupation of heritage land and that in Run Ta Ek many were now property owners for the first time in their lives.

UNESCO said it would not comment on the situation until it has been able to analyze Cambodias response.

It referred The Associated Press to previous comments from Lazare Eloundou Assomo, director of the UNESCO World Heritage Center, who stressed the agency had always categorically rejected the use of forced evictions as a tool for management of World Heritage listed sites.

Yem Srey Pin said even though Run Ta Ek has slowly improved since she arrived in February 2023, and her new home will be paid off fairly soon, shed rather return to her village if it were possible.

But with almost all of the villages 400 families moving out, Yem Srey Pin says theres nothing left for her there.

I cant live in my old village alone, she said.

___

Associated Press writer Jamey Keaten contributed to this report from Geneva.
By Patricia Zengerle and David Morgan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - An unprecedented series of foreign officials, including from Japan, Britain and Italy, have visited Washington over the past several months and appealed to congressional Republicans to approve more military aid for Ukraine.

But those lawmakers may listen to a different voice entirely - former president, and current Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida used an address to a joint meeting of Congress on Thursday to urge lawmakers to overcome "self-doubt" about the country's role on the world stage, warning that Ukraine's hopes "would collapse" without U.S. support.

He spoke on a dais in the House of Representatives chamber with Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, a close Trump ally who for months has declined to allow a House vote on legislation already passed by the Democratic-led Senate providing $60 billion in aid for Ukraine.

Johnson is due to meet with Trump in Florida on Friday, fueling speculation about whether he will clear a vote on Biden's national security spending request as soon as next week.

Trump, who has frequently complimented Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been critical of Washington's support for Ukraine in its war with Russia and has said he could end the conflict in 24 hours if elected, though he has offered few details.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged his country's allies to make good on their promises of military aid on Thursday, particularly in the form of desperately needed air defense systems as Russia scales up its air strikes.

Moscow has recently renewed its campaign of targeting Ukraine's now crippled energy infrastructure, but as Kiev runs short of Western-supplied munitions, including air defenses, it increasingly struggles to fend off the attacks.

Friday's meeting could allow Johnson to make the case to Trump that he would be better off with a strong Ukraine if he returns to the White House, said Republican Representative French Hill, who backs Ukraine aid.

I would urge him to make that case, Hill said.

Support from the party's presidential nominee could also bolster Johnson as he faces a threat from firebrand Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a staunch Trump ally and passionate Ukraine aid opponent, to seek Johnson's ouster as speaker if the spending bill passes.

Greene said after Kishida's speech that she was sure Trump and Johnson would discuss the aid package, but did not offer an opinion. "I think that President Trump can present his views, and I don't speak for the president," she said.

The national security spending bill, which also includes billions in assistance for Israel and Taiwan, passed the Democratic-led Senate with 70% support in February.

"If we want to protect against the Chinese Communist Party endangering Taiwan, the House should quit stalling and pass the supplemental. If we want to prevent handing Putin a victory in Europe, the House should do the right thing for democracy and pass the Senate's aid package now," Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said after Kishida's speech.

Congress has approved $113 billion for Ukraine since Russian troops launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. But it has not passed any of Democratic President Joe Biden's requests for emergency assistance for Kyiv since December 2022, before Republicans took control of the House.

Johnson voted repeatedly against Ukraine aid before he became speaker.

ADVICE FROM ABROAD

Officials from several other countries have also come to Washington this year, arguing for Ukraine assistance. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited in March and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz came in February.

This week, British Foreign Minister David Cameron met Trump in Florida and then came to Washington. Cameron did not meet with Johnson this trip, although the two met in December.

The visits are unusual - foreign leaders generally work to avoid the appearance of influencing U.S. legislation. But analysts said this push reflects deep anxiety, especially in Europe, about how long Ukraine can hold on without significant new help from Washington.

"Europe is feeling very nervous about the United States and our commitment to NATO, Ukraine and Europe in general," said Elizabeth Hoffman, director of congressional and government affairs at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Some lawmakers welcome the attention.

"As I talk to people around the world... they really look to the United States, not only for leadership but for their own comfort about the fact that we are an anchor and we're the moral compass... of the planet, and it's appreciated," said Senator Jim Risch, the top Senate Foreign Relations Committee Republican.

There has been skepticism, too, as there was when Zelenskiy came to Capitol Hill for a second time in December, a year after addressing a joint meeting of Congress.

Johnson did not schedule time for Zelenskiy to address the House. And after meeting with the Ukrainian leader, he accused Biden's administration of asking for billions of additional dollars without appropriate oversight or a clear strategy for victory.

Representative Bob Good, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, said he respected Trump's prerogative to weigh in on anything he wants, and to try to influence Johnson or Republicans in Congress.

"All Republicans care what President Trump thinks," Good told Reuters. "We respect President Trump as a leader of our party, we respect him as the anticipated next president, we hope. So he has a lot of influence."

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle and David Morgan, additional reporting by Jonathan Landay, Gabriella Borter and Makini Brice; editing by Don Durfee, Scott Malone and Diane Craft)
Arizona Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake is actively lobbying state lawmakers to overturn a 160-year-old law she once supported that bans abortion in almost all cases, a source with knowledge of her efforts told CNN.

Lake is pushing for GOP lawmakers in her home state to repeal the law while leaving in place legislation signed in 2022 by Republican Gov. Doug Ducey that would restrict abortion to within the first 15 weeks of a pregnancy. The Arizona Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the state must adhere to the Civil War-era law, which bans all abortions except those necessary to save a womans life.

Lake has called state legislators and offered her help and support for what they need to overturn the territorial law so it reverts back to the 15-week Ducey law, the source said.

The move continues a remarkable 180-degree flip by Lake on the state abortion law and illustrates Republican concerns over how the issue is reverberating through a key battleground state.

As a candidate for governor in 2022, Lake called the 1864 law great and said she would support the courts decision on whether to implement it.

I think were going to be setting, paving the way and setting course for other states to follow, Lake said at the time.

But Lake changed her stance Tuesday following the Arizona Supreme Court ruling and called on the states Democratic governor and GOP-controlled Legislature to come up with an immediate common sense solution that Arizonans can support.

Her sharp pivot has aligned her with her close ally, former President Donald Trump, who has also undergone an election-year shift on abortion. In a statement Monday, Trump said that the future of abortion access in the United States should be determined by the states, leaving in place the status quo created when the US Supreme Court, led by his three handpicked justices, ended the federal right to an abortion.

Yet, Arizonas ruling forced Trump to quickly confront the implications of that position, and on Wednesday, the former president sought to distance himself from the reality he helped create, suggesting that the Arizona law would be straightened out.

Im sure the governor and everyone else are going to bring it back into reason and that will be taken care of, I think, very quickly, he said. Arizona is going to definitely change. Everybody wants that to happen.

Hours later, Arizona Republican lawmakers thwarted an attempt to vote on repealing the states law. According to The Arizona Republic, state Rep. Matt Gress attempted to initiate a vote that would repeal the law before fellow GOP state Rep. David Livingston cut him short with a motion to recess. Gress told the publication he voted against the motion to recess.

Democrats in the state House began to protest as Republicans left the chamber after successfully blocking the effort to bring the repeal bill to a vote, the newspaper reported.

Marcus DellArtino, a Republican strategist in Arizona, said he was skeptical that the anti-abortion hard-liners in the state Legislature  who have celebrated the courts decision  would be amenable to lobbying from Lake or even Trump.

Im not sure how you get them to reverse their position just by making a phone call, he said. I cannot mathematically figure out how they will get the votes.

The Arizona Supreme Court ruling has become a flashpoint in the states ongoing battle over the future of abortion access with potentially massive political implications. The Grand Canyon State is a key battleground this year in the fight for control of the Senate and the White House.

Democrats have rallied to remind voters in the state that the ruling was only made possible by the US Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade  an outcome orchestrated and celebrated by Trump.

CNNs Melissa Alonso contributed to this report.

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MEXICO CITY (AP)  A report released by the Mexican government Friday says the country is facing a dire shortage of fentanyl for medical use, even as Mexican cartels pump out tons of the illicit narcotic.

The paradox was reported in a study by Mexicos National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions. The study did not give a reason for the shortage of the synthetic opioid, which is needed for anesthesia in hospitals, but claimed it was a worldwide problem.

The commission said fentanyl had to be imported, and that imports fell by more than 50% between 2022 and 2023.

Nonetheless, Mexican cartels appear to be having no problem importing tons of precursor chemicals and making their own fentanyl, which they smuggle into the United States. The report says Mexican seizures of illicit fentanyl rose 1.24 tons in 2020 to 1.85 tons in 2023.

Some of that is now spilling back across the border, with an increase in illicit fentanyl addiction reported in some Mexican border regions  a problem Mexico paradoxically blamed on the United States.

Despite the limitations of availability in pharmaceutical fentanyl in our country, the excessive use of opiates in recent decades in the United States has had important repercussions on consumption and supply in Mexico, the report states.

The report said that requests for addiction treatment in Mexico increased from 72 cases in 2020, to 430 cases in 2023. That sounds like a tiny number compared to the estimated 70,000 annual overdose deaths in the United States in recent years related to synthetic opioids. But in fact, the Mexican government does very little to offer addiction treatment, so the numbers probably don't reflect the real scope of the problem.

The shortage of medical anesthetic drugs has caused some real problems in Mexico.

Local problems with the availability of morphine and fentanyl have led anesthesiologists to acquire their own supplies, carry the vials around with them, and administer multiple doses from a single vial to conserve their supply.

In 2022, anesthetics contaminated by those practices caused a meningitis outbreak in the northern state of Durango that killed about three dozen people, many of whom were pregnant women given epidurals. Several Americans died because of a similar outbreak after having surgery at clinics in the Mexican border city of Matamoros in 2023.

The response by the administration of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to those twin problems  not enough legal fentanyl, and too much of the illicit stuff  has been contradictory.

In 2023, Lopez Obrador briefly proposed banning fentanyl even for medical use, but has not mentioned that idea lately after it drew a wave of criticism from doctors.

Meanwhile, the president has steadfastly denied that Mexican cartels produce the drug, despite overwhelming evidence that they import precursor chemicals from Asia and carry out the chemical processes to make fentanyl. Lopez Obrador claims they only press the drug into pill form.

According to the U.S. Department of States 2023 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report, approximately 96 percent of all fentanyl seized by CBP originated in Mexico, with only 270 kg reaching the United States from other destinations.

___

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
By Simon Jessop

LONDON (Reuters) - The climate targets verification group that announced a plan this week to allow companies to offset greenhouse gas emissions from their supply chain with carbon credits came under new pressure on Thursday to drop the policy.

A group of 21 technical advisers asked the board of trustees of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in a letter seen by Reuters "to retract this decision immediately" because it was made without their advice.

On Tuesday, the SBTi said it would accept "environmental attribute certificates (EACs) for abatement purposes" for so-called Scope 3 emissions, including from the use of a company's products.

The decision marked a policy reversal and sparked an angry letter from SBTi staff to the leadership of the global nonprofit on Wednesday. The letter decried the move and called for the chief executive and board members who backed it to resign.

The 21 advisers represent around a fifth of the SBTi's Technical Advisory Group (TAG), which helps inform the development and revision of SBTi standards.

The last time the group met, a plan to address Scope 3 emissions was proposed but "neither carbon credits nor any other type of environmental attribute certificates were presented as a considered option during that call," the letter said.

While the SBTi had last year asked for evidence on the effectiveness of EACs, the TAG group was not shown any analysis of the responses received so far, the letter said.

Given that, the decision to press ahead and allow the use of EACs "is premature and not supported by the TAG", they added.

Requests for comment from two SBTi board members via LinkedIn were not immediately returned.

(Reporting by Simon Jessop in London; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Tang Shuangning, former chairman of China Everbright Group, has been indicted on charges of embezzlement and taking bribes, according to the Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) Friday.

Following the completion of the National Commission of Supervision's investigations, a procuratorate in Tangshan, north China's Hebei Province, filed Tang's case with the city's intermediate people's court, the SPP said in a statement.

Prosecutors accused Tang of using his post at the People's Bank of China to illegally gain vast sums from public assets.

He was also accused of taking undue advantage of his various positions to seek profits for others in matters such as job promotions and obtaining loans, and accepting an especially large amount of money and valuables in return.

Prosecutors had informed the defendant of his legal rights and heard the opinions of the defense counsel, the SPP statement said. 
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Nebraska lawmakers passed a bill Thursday to restore the voting rights of those convicted of felonies upon the completion of their sentences, including prison and parole time.

The bill, introduced for years by Omaha state Sen. Justin Wayne, passed by a wide margin in the last year of Wayne's second term. He is barred by term limits from running this year for a third term.

Currently, a person who has been convicted of a felony must wait two years after completing all the terms of their conviction before regaining voting rights. Wayne's measure eliminates that waiting period, established in 2005 by the Legislature. Prior to the waiting period, a person convicted of a felony lost their right to vote indefinitely.

The passage of the bill means everything for the thousands of people who have not been full participants in society," said TJ King, a Nebraska-based outreach specialist with the advocacy group Black and Pink who was unable to vote in the 2022 general election after coming off probation for drug and theft convictions three months earlier.

King said the bill's passage is the final layer in his ability to be civically engaged and have a full voice and complete connection to the community."

For years, Wayne's effort to restore voting rights for felons faced opposition from several Republicans in the officially nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature. Opponents maintained that a two-year waiting period is reasonable and served as a deterrent to committing crime in the first place.

Until this year, Wayne's closest brush with success came in 2017, when his bill was passed by the Legislature but vetoed by then-Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts.

He prevailed by appealing to the practical sensibilities of law-and-order lawmakers.

Studies have shown that if you allow people to engage in their community upon being released, the recidivism rate drops, Wayne said during a public hearing for the bill last year. "We spend on average $42,000 a year on prisoners, of which we have around a 30 percent recidivism rate.

One year, I brought in a little chart that says if we just cut it by 10 percent, were saving around $5 million a year.

Republican Gov. Jim Pillen's office did not immediately respond to messages Thursday by The Associated Press asking whether he would sign the bill into law.

Restoring the voting rights of former felons has drawn national attention in recent years. In Florida, lawmakers weakened a 2018 voter-approved constitutional amendment to restore the voting rights of most convicted felons. Following that, an election police unit championed by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis arrested 20 former felons. Several of them said they were confused by the arrests because they had been allowed to register to vote.

In Tennessee, lawmakers on Wednesday killed a bipartisan bill for the year that would have let residents convicted of felonies apply to vote again without also restoring their gun rights.

As of October 2023, 26 states and the District of Columbia had expanded voting rights to people living with felony convictions, according to The Sentencing Project, a nonprofit sentencing advocacy group that studies criminal justice policy. As a result, voting rights have been restored to over 2 million people, said Nicole Porter, senior director of advocacy at The Sentencing Project.



Associated Press writer Gary Fields contributed to this report from Washington, D.C.
A Colorado Republican state representative issued an apology after he left his loaded gun in a bathroom in the states Capitol building.

State Rep. Don Wilson (R) posted a statement dated Wednesday on the social platform X, apologizing for briefly leaving his firearm unattended after the building was closed to the public.

I want to be clear that I take full and complete accountability for the incident. I made a mistake and am very sorry, his statement said. Thank you to the Colorado State Patrol, and our Capitol staff for their hard work and professionalism in quickly responding.

I take firearm safety very seriously. This is a humbling experience and I will reaffirm my commitment to responsible handling procedures, Wilson continued.

The Colorado State Patrol said a 9 millimeter Glock was left on a shelf inside a single-occupancy, unisex bathroom and found by a janitor Tuesday evening, The Colorado Sun reported.

Police said they reviewed surveillance footage of the building and saw Wilson exiting the restroom about half an hour before the gun was found.

The Capitol building was closed to the public at 7 p.m., but members of the state House Judiciary Committee were meeting until about 9 p.m. Tuesday. Members of the public may have been in the building during the meeting, despite security checkpoints being closed to new visitors, the outlet reported.

The Hill has reached out to State Patrol, but officers told the Sun that an investigation was completed, and it was determined that no state statues were violated and there are no criminal charges pending as a result of this incident.

The Colorado state Legislature is debating Senate Bill 131, which would expand the list of places prohibiting people from carrying a firearm, both concealed and open carry, to include the Capitol building. The bill was passed in the state Senate last week.

House Speaker Julie McCluskie (D) said in a statement that the consequences for leaving a firearm unattended are very serious and that doing so could have created a dangerous situation.

This should not have happened and cannot happen again, and this is why our caucus is pursuing legislation to prohibit carrying firearms in the Capitol, McCluskies statement said. I hope Rep. Wilson appreciates the severity of his mistake and the safety concern this has created for us in the Capitol.

The Hill has reached out to Wilson for further comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Russian state-backed hackers have stolen email correspondence between US government agencies and Microsoft via a breach of the software giants systems, US officials confirmed on Thursday.

Microsoft has notified several US federal agencies that the hackers may have stolen emails that Microsoft sent to those agencies that included login information such as usernames, or passwords, Eric Goldstein, a senior official at the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), told reporters.

At this time, we are not aware of any agency production environments that have experienced a compromise as a result of a credential exposure, Goldstein said. In other words, a CISA official told CNN, there is no evidence yet that the hackers had used the stolen credentials to successfully break into federal computer systems that are actively in use.

But the breach of Microsoft emails is still forcing the tech giant and US cyber officials to scramble to ensure there is no further damage at the hands of the alleged Russian operatives.

CISA on Thursday publicly released an emergency directive that orders civilian agencies potentially affected by the hacking campaign to shore up their defenses. CISA described the potential exposure of agency login credentials as an unacceptable risk to agencies.

CNN has requested comment from the Russian Embassy in Washington, DC.

The hackers in question are an infamous cyber-espionage group that US officials have previously tied to Russias foreign intelligence service.

Its the latest twist in a hacking incident that Microsoft first revealed in January but has only grown more serious as new details emerge. In March, Microsoft revealed that the hackers accessed some of Microsofts core software systems and were using that information for follow-on attacks on Microsoft customers.

Days after Microsoft disclosed the breach in January, another Big Tech company, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, said the same hackers had breached its cloud-based email systems. The full extent and exact purpose of the hacking activity isnt clear, but experts say the group responsible has a history of wide-ranging intelligence gathering campaigns in support of the Kremlin.

The same Russian group was behind the infamous breach of several US agency email systems using software made by US contractor SolarWinds, which was revealed in 2020. The hackers had access for months to the unclassified email accounts at the departments of Homeland Security and Justice, among other agencies, before the spying operation was discovered.

Russia denied involvement in the activity.

As we shared in our March 8 blog, as we discover secrets in our exfiltrated email, we are working with our customers to help them investigate and mitigate, a Microsoft spokesperson said in a statement to CNN on Thursday. This includes working with CISA on an emergency directive to provide guidance to government agencies.

Its the latest foreign hacking campaign to target US government agencies through Microsoft software.

Microsoft committed a cascade of avoidable errors that allowed Chinese hackers to breach the tech giants network and later the email accounts of senior US officials last year, including the secretary of commerce, according to a US government-backed review of the incident released this month.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
This image, taken with the VLT Survey Telescope hosted at ESOs Paranal Observatory, shows the beautiful nebula NGC 6164/6165, also known as the Dragons Egg. The nebula is a cloud of gas and dust surrounding a pair of stars called HD 148937 (ESO/VPHAS+ team. Acknowledgement: CASU)

Scientists believe they have found the explanation for a shocking age gap between two very strange stars.

The pair, located thousands of light years away, has a 1.5 million year old difference between their two ages.

Pairs of stars are usually much the same age, being born like twins, researchers said. But in the HD 148937 star system, the more massive star is at least 1.5 million years younger.

There are yet more mysteries about the system: it is surrounded by a nebula that is much younger than both, and is made of elements that usually are found inside the star itself.

Researchers believe that another third star permanently changed the fate of the system, and is responsible for the unusual nature of the pair.

Analysing data from the European Southern Observatory (ESO), it believes there were originally three stars in the system but two of them clashed and merged, creating a beautiful cloud of gas and dust, or nebula, surrounding HD 148937.

This merger likely occurred around 2.6 million years ago, where the newly formed star also became magnetic, unlike its older counterpart.

The researchers said their findings, published in the journal Science, helps solve two long-standing mysteries: why two stars in this binary star system have a huge age difference, and how massive stars - with a mass that is eight or more times that of the Sun - get their magnetic fields.

Hugues Sana, a professor at KU Leuven in Belgium and the principal investigator of the observations, said: We think this system had at least three stars originally; two of them had to be close together at one point in the orbit whilst another star was much more distant.

The two inner stars merged in a violent manner, creating a magnetic star and throwing out some material, which created the nebula.

The more distant star formed a new orbit with the newly merged, now-magnetic star, creating the binary we see today at the centre of the nebula.

Dr Abigail Frost, an astronomer at ESO in Chile, added: A nebula surrounding two massive stars is a rarity, and it really made us feel like something cool had to have happened in this system.

When looking at the data, the coolness only increased.

After a detailed analysis, we could determine that the more massive star appears much younger than its companion, which doesnt make any sense since they should have formed at the same time.

A team of international scientists analysed nine years worth of data from HD 148937, which is around 3,800 light years away from Earth, located in the direction of the Norma constellation.

The data came from ESOs Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI) and is located in the Atacama Desert in Chile.

While magnetic fields are common in low-mass stars like the Sun, more massive stars cannot sustain magnetic fields in the same way.

Yet roughly 7% of massive stars have been observed to have magnetic fields, scientists say.

While astronomers had suspected for some time that massive stars could acquire magnetic fields when two stars merge, this is the first time scientists have found direct evidence of it happening.

Dr Frost said: Magnetism in massive stars isnt expected to last very long compared to the lifetime of the star, so it seems we have observed this rare event very soon after it happened.

Additional reporting by Press Association
By Giulia Paravicini

NAIROBI (Reuters) -Somalia will never accept Ethiopia's plan to build a naval base in its breakaway region of Somaliland, but would consider granting Ethiopia commercial port access if discussed bilaterally, a senior Somali official said on Friday.

Landlocked Ethiopia sparked a diplomatic row with Mogadishu in January by signing a deal with Somaliland to lease 20 km (12 miles) of its coastline in return for recognising the region as an independent state.

Somalia called the deal illegal as it considers Somaliland as part of its territory even though it has had effective autonomy since 1991.

To defuse the acrimony, Kenya in consultation with Djibouti and eastern African bloc Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has proposed a maritime treaty to govern how landlocked states in the region can access ports on commercial terms, a senior Kenyan official said on Thursday.

Before discussing port access bilaterally, Ethiopia must annul its agreement with Somaliland, Somalia's state minister for foreign affairs Ali Omar told Reuters.

"Somalia will never accept (a) naval base," Omar said. "Somalia is ready for commercial access in accordance with the international law of the sea."

He added that Somalia was willing to discuss proposals so long as they meet the country's interests which are to "safeguard (our) sovereignty, political independence and unity".

A spokesperson for Ethiopia's foreign ministry declined to comment.

(Reporting by Giulia Paravicini; Additional reporting by Dawit Endeshaw in Addis Ababa; Writing by Hereward Holland; Editing by Alexander Winning and Richard Chang)
By Martin Coulter

LONDON (Reuters) - South Korea will host the second global AI (artificial intelligence) safety summit on May 21-22, six months after Britain held the inaugural event at Bletchley Park.

In a statement published on Friday, government officials said the event would build on the "Bletchley Declaration", an agreement between countries - including the U.S. and China - to cooperate on AI safety.

CONTEXT

When Microsoft-backed OpenAI released ChatGPT in late 2022, many were impressed, while some were alarmed.

Former Google researcher and "godfather of AI" Geoffrey Hinton said the technology posed a more urgent threat to the world than climate change. Elon Musk called for an immediate pause in the development of such systems.

In November last year, Britain hosted the first AI Safety Summit, bringing together world leaders, tech moguls and academics to discuss how best to regulate the rapidly developing technology.

After the two-day event, more than 25 government representatives signed a joint declaration agreeing that countries would work together and establish a common approach on oversight.

In order to keep pace with the technology, it was agreed that future summits would take place every six months. South Korea will hold a largely virtual event in May, with France hosting the next in-person summit later in 2024.

KEY QUOTES

"The AI Safety Summit held in Bletchley last year marked a milestone in which the government, industry and academia came together to address the potential risks of AI, and I am pleased that the Republic of Korea takes the baton from the UK," said Lee Jong-Ho of South Korea's ministry of science and information and communication technology.

"AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace that exceeds our expectations, and it is crucial to establish global norms and governance to harness such technological innovations to enhance the welfare of humanity."

(Reporting by Martin Coulter; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Photo 181855512  Chakrapong Worathat | Dreamstime.com

Last Friday, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear signed a controversial bill requiring age verification for individuals seeking to use pornography websites in the state. While the bill seeks to prevent minors from accessing explicit materials, the law will require a substantial invasion of adults' privacy.

The newly signed law started as an unrelated bill aimed at tightening penalties for child sexual abuse and other crimes, with the age-verification provision of the bill added as a floor amendment in March.

"Pornography is creating a public health crisis and having a corroding influence on minors," the final bill reads. "Pornography may also impact brain development and functioning, contribute to emotional and medical illnesses, shape deviate sexual arousal, and lead to difficulty in forming or maintaining positive, intimate relationships, as well as harmful sexual behaviors and addiction."

The bill requires pornography websites to limit access to adults and to verify a user's age by accessing their government-issued identification or using another "commercially reasonable method of identification that relies on public or private transactional data." Under the law, sites that violate the law face $10,000 fines for each instance that a minor accesses pornography.

As a result of this law, it's likely that major porn websites will cease operations in Kentucky rather than develop a complex and invasive age-verification system. PornHub has so far left seven states that have adopted similar laws.

However, it's possible that Kentucky's law will be overturned on a legal challenge. Last August, a federal court in Texas ruled that a similar law was unconstitutionalthough the bill has been allowed to go into effect after an appeal.*

While age-verification laws have gained many vocal supporters who argue that these laws are necessary to prevent minors from accessing harmful explicit materials, these measures are ultimately short-sighted.

"There will always be websites willing to provide porn without carding viewers. These platforms are also less likely to take other steps to stay within regulatory or creator-protective limits," Reason's Elizabeth Nolan Brown wrote in March. "By driving viewers away from platforms like Pornhubsites that engage in at least some content moderation, are relatively receptive and responsive to authorities, and are willing to forge mutually beneficial partnerships with porn creatorsage verification laws could actually increase viewership of exploitative or otherwise undesirable content."

*CORRECTION: The original version of this story misstated when Texas' age verification law was allowed to go into effect.

The post States Keep Passing Unconstitutional Age-Verification Laws for Porn Sites appeared first on Reason.com.
Former President Donald Trump leaves the courtroom during a break in the pre-trial hearing on March 25, 2024 in New York. (Mary Altaffer / Pool via Getty Images file) (Mary Altaffer)

Donald Trump will become the first former president to stand trial in a criminal case next week  and he'll do so against the backdrop of a presidential campaign in which he's the presumptive Republican nominee.

Jury selection begins Monday in New York City, and the trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.

Here's a look at what you need to know and what's expected to happen.

How long is jury selection expected to last?

Jury selection is expected to last one to two weeks. Starting Monday, prosecutors and lawyers for Trump will seek to whittle a pool of potentially hundreds of people to 12 jurors and six alternates. Each juror will answer 42 questions designed to discern whether they can be impartial about the polarizing former president. Questions include inquiries about what news sources they follow and whether they've ever attended any Trump rallies or protests. The jurors will be anonymous, meaning their identities will be withheld from the public because of security concerns.

A criminal trial involving Trump's company before the same judge in 2022 took a week to select 12 jurors and five alternates.

What is Trump charged with?

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg charged Trump with 34 counts of first-degree falsifying business records, a low-level felony. Trump faces a maximum of four years behind bars if hes convicted.

What is the prosecution alleging?

Prosecutors allege Trump repeatedly and fraudulently falsified New York business records to conceal criminal conduct that hid damaging information from the voting public during the 2016 presidential election.

At the heart of the case are allegations of various sex scandals that prosecutors say Trump tried to suppress with the help of his lawyer Michael Cohen and top executives in charge of the National Enquirer. In the final days of the election, Cohen paid $130,000 to one of the women, adult film star Stormy Daniels, to keep silent about her claim she'd had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006. Trump has denied the allegation.

After he was elected, Trump reimbursed Cohen through a series of checks from his trust that were processed through the Trump Organization and labeled as payments "for legal services rendered"  a claim the DA says was false.

What is Trumps defense?

Trump has maintained he didnt do anything wrong, and while he has acknowledged reimbursing Cohen, he has said he didnt know details about what Cohen was doing.

His lawyers are likely to target Cohen on the witness stand by painting him as a liar who loathes the former president and whose testimony shouldnt be believed. Theyre likely to be aggressive with Daniels, as well, and theyre expected to focus on comments she has made mocking Trump in an effort to portray her as biased and untrustworthy.

Who will testify for the prosecution?

Cohen, who says Trump directed him to make the payment to Daniels, is expected to be a key witness, as is Daniels. Trump's attorneys sought to bar both from testifying, but Judge Juan Merchan gave both the green light to take the stand. Daniels' former attorney Keith Davidson is likely to testify about his negotiations over the payment, a source with direct knowledge of the situation said.

Also expected to testify is Karen McDougal, a former Playboy model who said she had an affair with Trump, a claim he denies. She received money from the Enquirer to keep quiet about her allegations in what prosecutors said was part of a "catch and kill" scheme designed to keep a lid on potential Trump scandals.

David Pecker, a Trump ally who was the CEO of Enquirer publisher AMI at the time, is also expected to be called, the source said. Dylan Howard, another former AMI executive involved in the discussions with Trump and Cohen, may also testify.

Former White House communications director Hope Hicks  who prosecutors have said was involved in phone calls among Trump, Cohen and AMI  and former Trump assistant Madeleine Westerhout are also likely to take the stand, the source said.

Jurors are also expected to hear from Jeffrey McConney, the former controller for the Trump Organization, and Deborah Tarasoff, a former accounts payable supervisor at the company, the source said.

Who will testify in Trump's defense?

Court filings show Trump plans to call Bradley A. Smith, a former Federal Election Committee chair who will testify about the FEC and its function, laws it's responsible for enforcing and definitions and terms that relate to the case. The judge ruled he wont be allowed to offer his opinion about whether Trump's actions violated election law, as Trump had hoped he would.

There is a possibility Trump will testify because he's the only person who can directly rebut some of Cohen's claims.

Will Trump have to be in court every day?

Unlike the New York civil fraud and E. Jean Carroll defamation trials, the DA's case is criminal, so Trump is required to be in court every day to participate in his defense. The trial is off on Wednesdays, but Trump will have to be in court for the four other days of the court week. The trial days are expected to last from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Trump has suggested he might do campaign events at night after having attended court during the day.

How many jurors' votes are needed for a conviction or an acquittal?

To reach a verdict, all 12 jurors must agree on whether Trump is guilty or not guilty of a specific charge.
Former President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson pitched new legislation to crack down on noncitizen voting on Friday, despite the fact the practice is already illegal and occurs rarely.

Johnson said House Republicans would introduce a bill to require documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote, speaking at Mar-a-Lago next to Trump as he seeks to fend off threats from his right flank.

It seems like common sense, Im sure all of us would agree that we only want U.S. citizens to vote in U.S. elections, Johnson said, falsely suggesting that so many people are registering to vote when they obtain welfare benefits.

It is already a crime to register or vote as a noncitizen in all state and federal elections, though Washington, D.C., and a handful of municipalities in California, Maryland and Vermont allow noncitizen voting in local elections.

And few individuals break those laws.

This is a crime where not only are the consequences really high and the payoff really low  youre not getting millions of dollars, its not robbing a bank, you get to cast one ballot, said Sean Morales-Doyle, a lawyer at the Brennan Center for Justice. But what also makes this somewhat unique is that committing this crime actually entails the creation of a government record of your crime.

Registering to vote and casting a ballot both leaves a paper trail that elected officials are required by law to routinely review. Some records are available to the public, as well.

Its very easy to catch, and you will get caught, Morales-Doyle added.

Donald Trump speaks as Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., listens (Wilfredo Lee / AP)

The consequences are sweeping, too: noncitizens can face jail time, fines or deportation for voting illegally. Registering to vote alone could carry a five-year prison sentence, according to the Brennan Center.

On the flip side, Morales-Doyle said, requiring documentary proof of citizenship could disenfranchise millions of Americans who do not have access to passports or birth certificates.

Several states have tried to require documentary proof of citizenship in the past, but federal law currently prohibits it in federal elections. Arizona requires it for state elections, alone.

Many have investigated noncitizen voting and found little evidence of it. The Brennan Center found just 30 suspected noncitizen votes amid 23.5 million votes in 2016, suggesting that suspected noncitizen votes accounted for 0.0001 % of votes cast. Trumps own election integrity commission disbanded without releasing evidence of voter fraud, even though hed claimed 3 million undocumented immigrants had voted in 2016 costing him the popular vote.

But Johnson and Trump have both long advanced baseless claims about election integrity. Johnson repeatedly promoted conspiracy theories about the 2020 election and its voting machines being rigged, and he recruited Republicans to back a lawsuit seeking to overturn states where Trump lost.

For Trump, however, the proposal fuses two of his favorite talking points: immigration and voter fraud.

Its the sort of story that if youre inclined to not like immigrants in the first place feels truthy, said Justin Levitt, a former Biden advisor on democracy issues and election policy expert. I think that has helped it stayed politically potent even if it hasnt gotten more true.

Levitt said when noncitizens do vote, its typically a misunderstanding or mistake. He said he recalled an instance where California residents in the process of naturalizing were told they had been granted citizenship and immediately left naturalization interviews to register to vote. They had not been formally sworn in as citizens, however, and therefore were not eligible yet.
By Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber

GENEVA (Reuters) -The prospect of Gazans crossing into Egypt from the border town of Rafah to escape a military assault would make the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict impossible and cause an "atrocious dilemma" for the people fleeing, the U.N. refugee chief said on Friday.

Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said "we must fervently do everything" to avoid such an outflow of the Gazan population.

"Another refugee crisis from Gaza into Egypt, I can assure you... would make the resolution of the Palestinian refugee question as a consequence of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict impossible," Grandi told Reuters at UNHCR headquarters in Geneva.

Around 5.6 million Palestinian refugees currently live in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Gaza, mainly the descendants of those who were forced out or who fled their homes around the 1948 war linked to Israel's creation.

The fate of Palestinian refugees is one of the thorniest issues in the moribund peace process. Palestinians and Arab states say a deal should include the right of those refugees and their descendants to return, something Israel has always rejected.

Israeli plans to assault Rafah, where more than a million Gazans have been sheltering from military offensive further north, have drawn widespread condemnation.

Even Israel's closest ally, the United States, has warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the country would face global isolation if it goes ahead.

Grandi said an attack on Rafah may make the movement of Gazans into Egypt "the only option for safety available."

"This dilemma is unacceptable and the responsibility to avoid this dilemma lies squarely in this particular case with Israel, the occupying power in Gaza," he said.

The Israeli military says four Hamas battalions remain in the city as well as an unknown number of senior commanders of the Islamist movement.

Grandi said UNHCR was stocking tents and supplies and working with countries in the region on coming up with their own contingency plans for the possible arrival of Gazans.

"We are looking at the region and that the possibility not only of the outflow, but also that the conflict may expand," Grandi said.

"But I repeat, we must not arrive at that atrocious dilemma, which would be really almost the end of the road for what is really important here: ultimate peace."

(Reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Cecile Mantovani in Geneva; Additional reporting by Henriette Chacar in Jerusalem; Editing by Ros Russell)
HONG KONG, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China's first domestically made icebreaker Xuelong 2 has completed a five-day visit to the country's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and began its return journey to Shanghai on Friday afternoon.

Xuelong 2 or Snow Dragon 2 arrived on Monday for its first-ever visit to Hong Kong as part of its homebound voyage back from China's 40th Antarctic scientific expedition.

During its stay in Hong Kong, the icebreaker had been open for public visits, and researchers of the Antarctic expedition team were present at a two-day international conference on climate change at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Xuelong2's scientists also met with over 250 school students at the Hong Kong Science Museum where the Polar Research and Climate Change exhibition was held.

Chairman of the organizing committee of Xuelong 2's visit Ma Fung-kwok said that the public actively participated in the activities during the icebreaker's stay in Hong Kong, and "Xuelong 2" and "polar research" have become familiar words to Hong Kong people.

Wei Fuhai, deputy leader of the expedition team, said that Xuelong 2's visit to Hong Kong is an important part of commemorating the 40th anniversary of China's polar expedition.

Wei expressed hope that Xuelong 2's visit to Hong Kong will further enhance Hong Kong people's understanding of the country's polar expedition work, and arouse young people's interest and enthusiasm in exploring the mysteries of nature and in environmental protection. 
By Raphael Satter

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said Russian government-backed hackers have used their access to Microsoft's email system to steal correspondence between officials and the tech giant, an emergency directive by the U.S. watchdog released on Thursday showed.

In the directive dated April 2, the agency warned that hackers were exploiting authentication details shared by email to try to break into Microsoft's customer systems, including those of an unspecified number of government agencies.

The warning that government agencies are being targeted using stolen Microsoft emails follows the company's announcement in March that it was still wrestling with the intruders, which it nicknames "Midnight Blizzard."

That disclosure, which set alarm bells ringing across the cybersecurity industry, was followed just last week by a report from the U.S. Cyber Safety Review Board which said that a separate hack - blamed on China - had been preventable, faulting the company for cybersecurity lapses and a deliberate lack of transparency.

CISA declined to name agencies that might have been affected. Microsoft said in an email that it was "working with our customers to help them investigate and mitigate. This includes working with CISA on an emergency directive to provide guidance to government agencies."

The Russian Embassy in Washington, which in the past has denied being behind hacking campaigns, did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

CISA warned that the hackers might have gone after non-governmental groups as well.

"Other organizations may also have been impacted by the exfiltration of Microsoft corporate email," CISA said, encouraging customers to contact Microsoft for further details.

(Reporting by Raphael Satter; Editing by Franklin Paul, Richard Chang and Diane Craft)
By David Brunnstrom and Simon Lewis

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Philippines is determined to assert its sovereign rights in the South China Sea, its foreign secretary said on Friday at a meeting with U.S. allies to show support for Manila over an increasingly fraught standoff with China in the strategic waterway.

Speaking at the U.S. State Department, Enrique Manalo accused China of "escalation of its harassment" of the Philippines, while U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Washington stood with Manila against what he described as "coercion."

Recent maritime run-ins between China and the Philippines, a U.S. treaty ally, have made the highly strategic South China Sea a potential flashpoint between Washington and Beijing.

The officials spoke at a meeting between U.S. and Philippines defense and foreign secretaries and their national security advisers, a day after leaders of the U.S., Japan and the Philippines met at the White House to push back against Beijing's increased pressure on Manila.

"We are determined to assert our sovereign rights, especially within our economic - exclusive economic zone," Manalo said.

He said he hoped Friday's meeting would allow Washington and the Philippines to better coordinate their responses on the diplomatic and defense and security fronts.

Austin said the U.S. commitment to its mutual defense treaty with the Philippines was "ironclad".

"We're working in lockstep ... to strengthen interoperability between our forces, to expand our operational coordination and to stand up to coercion in the South China Sea," he said.

Two prominent U.S. senators this week introduced a bipartisan bill to provide Manila with $2.5 billion over five years, funding needed to modernize the U.S. ally's long-neglected armed forces.

A joint readout of Friday's meeting said the officials "underscored their determination to increase U.S. support for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to improve interoperability and to achieve our shared security objectives."

At the Pentagon later on Friday, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos said that the developing U.S.-Philippines alliance was not a response to any particular threat, but rather an evolution of the relationship to continue to defend international rules and law in the region.

China uses a so-called nine-dash line that takes in about 90% of the South China Sea to assert its claim to sovereignty over nearly all of the strategic waterway, and has deployed hundreds of coast guard vessels in patrols against rival claimants.

The United States has a mutual defense treaty with the Philippines and has repeatedly made clear it would protect its ally if Manila's coast guard or armed forces came under attack anywhere in the South China Sea

Encounters have become more frequent in the past year as Beijing presses its claims and Manila refuses to halt fishing and resupply activities for Philippine military personnel at two contested shoals. China considers these illegal intrusions, and has tried to repel the vessels.

In a series of Washington summits this week, the allied leaders unveiled a wide range of pacts to boost security and economic ties in the face of China's growing might.

Earlier on Friday, China summoned Japanese and Philippine diplomats to express strong dissatisfaction over negative comments about it aired during Thursday's trilateral summit.

Gregory Poling, a South China Sea expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, said the summit between President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Marcos was part of "a steady drumbeat of support for the Philippines."

"That has included strengthening the U.S. alliance to deter China from using military force and building up the capacity of the Philippine Coast Guard and Navy to maintain access to its waters despite China's coercion," he said.

(Reporting by David Brunnstrom and Simon Lewis; Additional reporting by Idrees Ali; Editing by Sharon Singleton, Andrew Heavens and Jonathan Oatis)
By Matt Spetalnick

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. officials met representatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Mexico this week to express concerns about Venezuela's electoral process, a White House official said on Friday.

The secret meeting was held as an April 18 deadline approached for the United States to decide whether to reimpose sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry in response to what Washington sees as Maduro's failure to make good on commitments for free and fair elections later this year.

The Biden administration has vowed to reinstate oil sanctions that it suspended in October unless Maduro makes progress on meeting his promises for the July 28 presidential election.

His government has set up major obstacles to participation by the opposition, including barring its leading candidate, Maria Corina Machado, from running against Maduro.

"The purpose was to express our concerns about Venezuela's electoral process," a White House National Security Council (NSC) spokesperson said of the meeting.

Daniel Erikson, the White House's senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs, led the U.S. delegation in the talks, which were held on Tuesday in Mexico City. Bloomberg News was first to report on the meeting.

The NSC spokesperson declined to provide details on the discussions, including whether the participants talked about sanctions on OPEC member Venezuela or if any progress was made or differences narrowed.

The Venezuelan Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. President Joe Biden's aides are still discussing a range of options ahead of the expiration on Thursday of a temporary U.S. license that has allowed Venezuela to freely sell its crude, according to people familiar with the matter.

No final decision has been made, the sources said.

The U.S. provided the partial sanctions relief in October in response to an election deal reached in Barbados between Maduro's government and the opposition. The agreement included the right of the opposition to choose its own presidential candidate.

The Biden administration's diplomatic engagement with Maduro and the easing of U.S. sanctions marked a major shift away from former President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" policy.

Weighing on current U.S. deliberation are concerns about whether reimposing sanctions on Venezuela's energy sector could spur higher global oil prices and increase the number of Venezuelan migrants heading for the U.S.-Mexico border.

The U.S. in January reimposed some non-energy sanctions after Venezuela's Supreme Court upheld the election ban on Machado over what it said was her support for sanctions and accusations of corruption, which she denies. Washington has also condemned the arrests of opposition activists by Venezuelan authorities.

(Reporting by Matt Spetalnick; additional reporting by Vivian Sequera in Caracas; Editing by Doina Chiacu and Ros Russell)
By Steve Holland and Susan Heavey

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -China is backing Russia's war effort in Ukraine by helping Moscow in its biggest military buildup since the Soviet era, providing drone and missile technology, satellite imagery and machine tools, senior U.S. officials said on Friday.

However, the Chinese Embassy in the U.S. said it has not provided weaponry to any party, adding that it is "not a producer of or party involved in the Ukraine crisis."

The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said U.S. President Joe Biden raised the issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping in their recent phone call and that it is a topic of discussion with U.S. allies in Europe and around the world.

One official said Chinese materials are filing critical gaps in Russia's defense production cycle and helping Moscow undertake its "most ambitious defense expansion since the Soviet era and on a faster timeline than we believed possible early on in this conflict."

"Our view is that one of the most game-changing moves available to us at this time to support Ukraine is to persuade the PRC (China) to stop helping Russia reconstitute its military industrial base. Russia would struggle to sustain its war effort without PRC input," the official said.

A Chinese embassy spokesperson told Reuters that normal trade between China and Russia should not be interfered or restricted.

"We urge the U.S. side to refrain from disparaging and scapegoating the normal relationship between China and Russia," Liu Pengyu said.

Some of the information provided by the U.S. officials in a small briefing with reporters was based on declassified intelligence. They sketched a wide array of ways China is helping Russia's two-year war against Ukraine without providing lethal assistance.

President Joe Biden has been pressuring Republicans who control the U.S. House of Representatives to approve a major infusion of funding for providing weapons to Ukraine as it struggles to fend off the Russians.

The U.S. and its allies have also been more blunt about confronting Chinese aggression in the South China Sea and against self-ruled Taiwan.

China complained about what it viewed as anti-China rhetoric emanating from Biden's talks this week with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines, prompting a denial from the White House.

The Russians have likely used machine tool imports from China to increase its ballistic missile production, the officials said. They cited Dalian Machine Tool Group, one of Chinas leading machine tool manufacturers, as one company supplying Russia.

In 2023, 90% of Russias microelectronics imports came from China, which Russia has used to produce missiles, tanks and aircraft, the officials said.

They said that Chinese companies such as Wuhan Global Sensor Technology Co, Wuhan Tongsheng Technology Co Ltd and Hikvision are providing Chinese optical components for use in Russian systems, including tanks and armored vehicles.

In addition, Russia has received military optics for tanks and armored vehicles that Chinese firms iRay Technology and North China Research Institute of Electro-Optics manufacture, they said.

The officials also said China has provided Russia with drone engines and turbojet engines for cruise missiles, and that Chinese and Russian entities have been working to jointly produce drones inside Russia.

Chinese companies are likely providing Russia with nitrocellulose to make propellants for weapons, helping Russia rapidly expand its capacity to make key munitions like artillery rounds, they added.

The U.S. officials also said China is helping Russia improve its satellite and other space-based capabilities for use in Ukraine, increasing the Russian threat across Europe. And they said the U.S. has information China is providing imagery to Russia for its war on Ukraine.

(Reporting By Steve Holland and Susan Heavey; additional reporting by Jasper Ward; editing by Caitlin Webber and David Gregorio)
Republican secretaries of state in Alabama and Ohio are warning President Joe Bidens campaign that Biden might not be placed on their general election ballots because the Democratic Partys late-August convention falls after state ballot deadlines.

Its not the first time a convention has been held in late August  but it would be a first if any related ballot access questions werent solved easily, without fanfare or much controversy. And an NBC News analysis of other state deadlines suggests there arent likely to be other related hiccups for Democrats outside of these two states.

The Biden campaign is resolute: It believes hell be on every states presidential ballot no matter what, pointing to a long history of similar issues getting solved without any fight  including in 2020, in Alabama, Oklahoma, Illinois, Washington and Montana. Its unclear whether Republicans will ultimately lend a hand to Democrats in either state to solve the issue in the most straightforward way: making small changes to state law.

John Merrill, a Republican who served as Alabamas secretary of state until 2022, told NBC News that he thought the usually pro forma process shouldnt fall victim to politics.

We have a Democratic president today, but four years ago we had a Republican president. Were going to have a Republican president again and we will have a Democratic president again, Merrill told NBC News.

Its not something that needs to be advanced or promoted only because its a Democrat or a Republican [in office].

He also noted that since the incumbent presidents party traditionally holds its convention second, both parties may find themselves bumping up against these deadlines again.

Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen publicized a letter warning the state and national Democratic Party that state law requires them to provide his office with a certificate of nomination for president and vice president by Aug. 15, four days before the Democratic convention starts.

If those certificates are not in my office on time, there will be no certification and no appearance on the Alabama general election ballot, Allen said in a statement released as his office made the letter public.

I took an oath to uphold and defend the laws and constitution of my State, and I take that oath very seriously. I will administer Alabama elections in accordance with Alabama law and the deadlines provided therein, Allen said in a subsequent statement to NBC News.

But both Alabama and Allen have recent experience with this exact issue. When the GOP was in this situation, in 2020, state Republicans voted to relax this deadline to ensure then-President Donald Trump obtained ballot access.

That legislation passed unanimously, with Allen, who was a state legislator at the time, among the yes votes. That year, top officials with both the Republican Party and Democratic Party also sent Merrills office a conditional certification ahead of the convention stating their intention to nominate Trump and Biden respectively. Those conditional certifications were included in Merrills 2020 candidate certifications, which are posted on the secretary of states website.

Allens office didnt respond to an additional request for comment on whether hed encourage his former colleagues in the Legislature to pass similar legislation to clear up the potential issue. But a spokeswoman did tell NBC News that they believe state law doesnt allow Allen to approve any provisional certification ahead of the partys official nomination.

AL.com reported Thursday that a Democratic Party attorney in Alabama wrote Allens office a letter asking the secretary to accept a provisional certification this year too, arguing that a failure to do so would be unconstitutional.

Also on Thursday, a group of Democratic lawmakers filed legislation that would amend the deadline and fix the problem. But theyll need Republicans to pass the bill through the GOP-controlled Legislature.

John Wahl, the state Republican Party chair, gave no indication hed suggest Republicans work to help the Democrats. Instead, he released a statement attacking Democrats for holding their convention outside of the deadline, claiming it showed shocking disregard for Alabamas electoral process.

If legislators refuse to change the deadline and Allen holds firm on his opposition to provisional certifications, Democrats will have two other potential avenues  suing for ballot access, or holding some sort of earlier official nomination vote ahead of the Chicago convention. The Biden campaign believes past precedent in both Ohio and Alabama would weigh heavily in any potential lawsuit.

Asked about the situation in Alabama and Ohio, a Biden campaign official told NBC News that the president will be on the ballot in all 50 states.

State officials have the ability to grant provisional ballot access certification prior to the conclusion of presidential nominating conventions. In 2020 alone, states like Alabama, Illinois, Montana and Washington all allowed provisional certification for Democratic and Republican nominees, the official added.

President Joe Biden arrives for a groundbreaking ceremony near New Albany, Ohio, in 2022. (Gaelen Morse / Bloomberg via Getty Images file)

In Ohio, state law requires presidential and vice presidential nominees to be certified to the secretary of state or nominated through one of several manners on or before the ninetieth day before the day of the general election.

That means 12 days before the start of the Democratic National Convention  Aug. 7  is the Buckeye States deadline.

Paul Disantis, chief counsel for Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, warned of the potential for a missed deadline in an April 5 letter to Ohio Democratic Party Chair Liz Walters.

LaRose spokesperson Ben Kindel noted that the Legislature approved a temporary exception in 2020, when Democrats and Republicans both held conventions after the 90-day deadline. But its not an issue this year for the GOP, which enjoys overwhelming majorities in the Ohio state House and Senate.

Its unclear whether enough Republican lawmakers are willing to help Democrats by changing the law, the simplest way out of the bind.

Pat Melton, a spokesperson for Ohio state House Speaker Jason Stephens, said LaRose gave the Republican speaker a heads up before sending his original letter and that Stephens and House GOP leadership are still reviewing the matter.

State Rep. Bill Seitz, a long-serving Republican lawmaker, told NBC News that he is certainly open to making the change consistent with precedent.

After the Republicans have spent five months criticizing Colorado and Maine for trying to bounce Trump, I think we would look like hypocrites if we tried to bounce Biden, Seitz said. So thats one good reason why we should be open to this change. Frankly, I think we need a bigger discussion over why we have this law in the first place.

State Sen. Niraj Antani, another Republican, was less charitable.

Theres 0 chance I vote to help Joe Biden, Antani wrote in a text message. Democrats have known about this law for years. This is on them.

But Ohio state Senate President Matt Huffman doesnt believe legislation is needed to resolve the matter.

I think the national committee doesnt have to wait till their convention to notify the state of Ohio who their candidate is, he told reporters Wednesday. So well wait for the Democratic leaders to suggest how that would get solved.

Donald McTigue, a Democratic lawyer based in Ohio, sent a letter this week to LaRoses chief counsel committing the Democratic Party to provisionally certify, by the August 7 statutory deadline, that President Biden and Vice President Harris will be the Democratic nominees, and will confirm the results of the Democratic National Convention  to the Secretary of State by August 25, 2024.

Kindel said Thursday that the secretary of states office is still reviewing the letter.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s independent presidential campaign says it has ended its contract with a consultant who was seen on video encouraging people to vote for him in order to get "rid of Biden" even if that means electing former President Donald Trump.

Campaign manager Amaryllis Fox announced the decision in a post on X in response to a Kennedy supporter asking for the campaign to distance itself from the consultant, Rita Palma.

Video of Palma's comments had energized Democrats online as they said it confirmed their accusations that the purpose of Kennedy's campaign is to hand the White House back to Trump over President Joe Biden. Kennedy rejects that.

"We terminated her contract for misrepresentation immediately upon seeing the longer video in which she gave an inaccurate job title and described a conversation that did not happen," Fox wrote on X, referring to Palma.

While speaking to a crowd in New York on Friday at an event unaffiliated with the campaign, Palma falsely identified herself as the campaign's New York state director, according to the Kennedy campaign and the video of Palma's comments that circulated online.

"My time with Team Kennedy has been one of the best political adventures of my life filled with some of the best people I've encountered, and i have encountered many," Palma told ABC News via text message after she was terminated.

"I hold no ill will and look forward to the next seven months of watching Bobby shine," Palma wrote.

She did not respond to a question about why she identified herself as the campaign's New York state director.

PHOTO: Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at a Cesar Chavez Day event at Union Station on March 30, 2024 in Los Angeles. (Mario Tama/Getty Images, FILE)

Kennedy's team had already been pushing back on Palma's comments in the video, which has been shared by Democratic operatives on social media and elsewhere.

At the Friday event, Palma told Kennedy supporters that backing him in New York, even if Trump ultimately won the White House, made sure "we're rid of Biden either way."

"Why wouldn't we put our vote to Bobby and at least get rid of Biden and get those 28 electoral votes in New York  to Bobby rather than to Biden, thereby reducing Biden's 270?" Palma said in the video. "And we all know all that works, right -- 270 wins the election. If you don't get to 270, if nobody gets to 270, then Congress picks the president, right?

"Who are they going to pick if it's a Republican Congress? They'll pick Trump," Palma said in the video. "So we're rid of Biden either way."

Kennedy's campaign manager told ABC News earlier this week that she had spoken to Palma on Monday and determined she was "operating as a private citizen" at a "health freedom event."

"She definitely does not speak on behalf of the campaign," Fox said. "She's never been to one of our strategy meetings or any kind of leadership meeting on electoral strategy in New York or nationally."

RFK Jr. consultant terminated after saying that voting for him helps 'get rid of Biden' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
(Reuters) -Streaming service provider Roku said on Friday it identified a second cyberattack that impacted about 576,000 additional accounts while investigating a breach that affected 15,000 user accounts earlier this year.

The company, which had more than 80 million active accounts, said the hackers did not gain access to any sensitive information such as full credit card numbers or other payment details.

Roku's shares were down about 2% in early trading.

However, the company said it identified less than 400 cases where the information was used to make unauthorized purchases of streaming service subscriptions and hardware products using the payment method stored in the accounts.

The company said it would refund or reverse charges for accounts where it has determined unauthorized purchases have been made as part of the attack.

Roku pinned the unauthorized access to "credential stuffing", where users may have used the same credentials across different platforms.

Meanwhile, the company has enabled a two-factor authentication for all the accounts to beef up security controls.

(Reporting by Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila)
The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe has become the third tribal nation to ban South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem (R) from its reservation land.

On Wednesday, the Standing Rock Tribal Council voted to ban Noem from its land for racially charged comments she made at town halls events alleging some tribal leaders are personally benefiting from Mexican drug cartel activity on reservations, the South Dakota Searchlight reported.

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe is straddles the border of North Dakota and South Dakota. The governor was banned from two other reservations earlier this year, a trend that started after she delivered remarks on the U.S.-Mexico border in February.

Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chair Janet Alkire said in a statement that Noems attempts to link tribes with the Mexican cartel was irresponsible and a sad reflection of her fear-based politics that do nothing to bring people together to solve problems.

Rather than make uninformed and unsubstantiated claims, Noem should work with tribal leaders to increase funding and resources for tribal law enforcement and education, Alkires statement said, reported by the Searchlight.

Alkire called a special meeting after a motion to ban Noem was introduced by Alice Bird Horse and seconded by Cyril Archambault.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe banned Noem in February, shortly after her remarks at the border. Frank Star Comes Out, the president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, said the ban was effective immediately and enacted to protect the safety of the tribe.

The Cheyenne River Sioux also voted to ban Noem last week. The South Dakota governor is now banned from about 10 percent of the land in the state she governs, CNN noted.

In a video posted to social platform X, Noem announced Thursday that she was offering a history-making opportunity to the states tribes by creating a law enforcement training course over the summer.

Now, its not going to address every single challenge, but this training is a crucial first step towards addressing public safety issues in our tribal communities, she said.

The governor, in an emailed statement to The Hill, said tribal leaders should immediately banish the Mexican drug cartels responsible for crimes on tribal lands.

The people in communities live with unspeakable horrors and tragedy every day, but banishing me for telling the truth about the suffering does nothing to solve the problems, she wrote. It may play well for the leftist media, but in reality, its pointless. The real question you should be asking is: Why wont tribal leaders banish the Mexican drug cartels who are responsible for this devastation?

Noem added that she is taking action to increase public safety on reservations and pointed to the law enforcement training and efforts at the federal level.

Hundreds of concerned tribal members have reached out thanking her for her efforts, she said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Editors Note: Call to Earth is a CNN editorial series committed to reporting on the environmental challenges facing our planet, together with the solutions. Rolexs Perpetual Planet initiative has partnered with CNN to drive awareness and education around key sustainability issues and to inspire positive action.

Im personally a massive fan of any meal that involves chicken, from deep-fried wings to a gourmet-style Cordon Bleu  however its served, I love the taste. But when I discovered a London-based project turning discarded chicken feathers into edible proteins, I admit I was skeptical.

The company behind the project, Kera Protein Ltd., has a unique approach to its lab-produced protein product. It turns discarded waste from the poultry industry into fake meat through an intensive 13-step hydrolysis process.

The concept for the company started as Sorawut Kittibanthorns student project at Londons Central Saint Martins university in 2019. Since then, he and his business partner, Tom Washington, have delved into the issue of waste management - focusing particularly on chicken feathers. Its not about creating something new, Kittibanthorn notes, just optimizing what we already have.

The feather-meat protein could help address at least one sustainability issue plaguing the food industry: excess waste. As much as 3 million tons of poultry feathers are wasted each year in the EU alone, usually incinerated or dumped into landfill.

Kittibanthorn spied a missed opportunity, where this discarded waste that is full of keratin  the protein that makes up hair, skin and nails  could be converted into a useful product.

Kera Protein Ltd. collaborated with London-based Thai supper club, Laam, to showcase the chicken feather protein in a six-course tasting menu. - Kera Protein Ltd.

At Kera, the chicken feathers supplied by a local farm are cleaned, pulverized and mixed with acid and keratinase  an enzyme that breaks down keratins strong chemical bonds. After being gently heated and stirred for up to 14 hours, the mixture is filtered and cooled.

The final form is a powdered texture akin to collagen that surpasses conventional protein sources in both nutrition and flavor, says Kittibanthorn, adding that the meat-mimicking substance also contains high levels of antioxidants similar to those found in berries.

Feasting on feathers

Keras most recent collaboration is with a London-based Thai supper club called Laam. The business, run by Nathan Phayu Brown and Patarita KG Tassanarapan, specializes in home-inspired regional cuisine that showcases the best of British produce by taking the authentic flavors of northern Thailand and reinventing them for a contemporary dining experience.

On April 4, it hosted a launch event, consisting of a six-course banquet, intended to demonstrate the versatility of the chicken feather protein product.

On the menu there was a classic Thai laab dib tartare with fish sauce, cured quail egg and crispy wanton, a raw beef salad where the meat was replaced with the Kera protein, and smoky aubergine chili relish with crispy Kera and side seasonal vegetables.

These were followed by Laos-style rice noodle soup with minced Kera tomato paste and spicy pickled mustard green and deep-fried Cloud chicken nuggets as a palette cleanser. To finish, there was a feather-infused coconut sorbet with salted egg sauce.

CNN's Leah Collins holds a sample of the Kera chicken-feather protein product at the tasting event in London on April 4, 2024. - Leah Collins/CNN

Despite my preconceptions, I was pleasantly surprised. The Kera feather-meat was undetectable, tasting exactly like the real thing. I only really noticed the consistency, which felt slightly starchier than ordinary beef.

Kittibanthorn explains that feather-based food doesnt have a distinctive flavor. Instead, it tends to pick up the flavors its cooked in  which, he notes, allows one to cater towards specific tastes and textures.

Chef Brown described the concept as home-inspired aromatic Thai food, each course highlighting a different region of the country and presenting regional flavors of Thailand. This allowed Brown to showcase the rich spices used in northern Thai cuisine such as lemongrass, tamarind and chili.

The aim of the collaboration is to change cultural perceptions towards alternative and sustainable forms of protein, as well as education to challenge stereotypes about how waste is viewed and discarded.

The stigma is a barrier, says Brown, but thats humanity  we break down so many barriers all the time. So why not break a stigma that will ultimately prevent us from being sustainable?

A solution to chicken waste?

To make the food we tried, Kera extracted feathers from discarded chicken carcasses in partnership with a local farm. Around 190 grams (6.7 ounces) of hydrolyzed protein can be produced from the feathers of one chicken, according to Kera.

One of the biggest challenges is production costs  a common issue for alternative meats, including lab-grown meat options. The feathers must undergo a 34-hour extraction process, which is both time consuming and financially strenuous. The company currently works in partnership with only one farm, keeping production at a modest scale.

To scale up, Kittibanthorn and Washington hope to set up a production plant where the chicken feathers would be fermented with enzymes on a larger scale, and the process would be powered by excess heat from other production lines  resulting in less overall energy consumption and lower costs.

Tackling feather waste is just the start and they hope that it could inspire action to prevent waste across the industry.

According to the nonprofit Soil Association, rivers in the UK are at risk of becoming dead zones depleted of wildlife due to waste from poultry factories. It notes that the River Wye  the UKs fourth-longest river  is experiencing damaging agal blooms due to phosphate pollution from the discarded muck of at least 20 million chickens, and is now at the center of a lawsuit.

Kera is in the process of securing the Novel Foods EU Certification, so that its products can be legally sold at a large scale. The process can take years, though exceptions have been made for certain sustainable innovations, says Kittibanthorn.

Keras business model could be considered as a sustainable waste management company, he adds. We hope to revolutionize the way people view chicken feathers, demonstrating their potential as a valuable resource rather than just a dirty by-product.

This story has been updated to clarify how waste from poultry factories enters UK rivers.

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NAIROBI, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Heavy rains and ensuing flash flooding have left at least 13 people killed and nearly 15,000 others displaced across Kenya, the United Nations humanitarian agency said Friday.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the last week of March marked the beginning of the long rains (March to May) season, which has been characterized by heavy rains and floods that have caused increased water levels in rivers, infrastructural damage, livestock and property losses, and limited road access in various regions of Kenya.

The OCHA, which cited reports from the Kenyan authorities and the Kenya Red Cross Society, said areas of particular concern include counties in the northern, central, western and eastern parts of the country.

Following intense rains and flooding that submerged homes in the informal settlements on March 25, at least 11 people died and 9,000 were displaced in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, according to the UN agency.

On April 8, two people, including a minor, drowned at a rock catchment dam in Muranga County, central Kenya, and another person was still missing when a river flooded in Kitui County, eastern Kenya.

"Humanitarian partners are moving emergency shelter and non-food items to regions at risk of flooding while working with authorities to assess the needs alongside scaling up response to affected communities," OCHA said in its Flash Update issued in Nairobi.

The meteorological department has issued advisories on the continuation of heavy rainfall in most parts of the country until April 15. 
WASHINGTON  Donald Trumps campaign is calling for more presidential debates to be held between him and President Joe Biden, and for the proposed face-offs to begin as early as possible to ensure that more Americans have a full chance to see the candidates in action before they cast their ballot.

While the Commission on Presidential Debates has already announced three presidential debates and a vice-presidential debate to occur later this year, we are in favor of these debates beginning much earlier, Trumps co-campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita said in a letter Thursday.

By the time of the first scheduled debate, on Sept. 16, more than 1 million Americans will likely have already voted, Wiles and LaCivita said. By the third debate, on Oct. 9, the campaign projected that the number would have surged to approximately 8.7 million. A second debate is penciled in for Oct. 1.

Trump's advisers said that, with more Americans voting early, the proposed calendar simply comes too late.

Moving up the commission's timetable will ensure more Americans have a full chance to see the candidates before they start voting, and we would argue for adding more debates in addition to those on the currently proposed schedule, Wiles and LaCivita added.

They said the country deserves as many as seven presidential debates, citing the record number that Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas held in their 1858 battle for a U.S. Senate seat in Illinois.

Trump, who declined to participate in any of the Republican primary debates, has said he is willing to go head-to-head with Biden anytime, anyplace and anywhere, starting now.

The letter comes amid speculation over whether the candidates will take part in a traditional debate at all. Biden has not yet publicly committed to debating Trump in the general election, saying in March that it depends on his behavior.

Trump and Biden debated only twice in 2020 after Trump backed out of one when the commission changed it from an in-person debate to a virtual one (Trump had Covid at the time). It was not rescheduled. The Republican National Committee then voted in 2022 to withdraw from commission-sanctioned debates, requiring candidates to pledge not to participate in them.

Trump's campaign attacked the nonpartisan commission, which was founded by former RNC Chair Frank Fahrenkopf and former Democratic National Committee Chair Paul Kirk, for adding "additional structure" to the debates. The campaign criticized the commission for cutting off Trumps microphone while on stage  which the commission said it would do for both candidates after their first chaotic debate  and accused them of selecting a demonstrably anti-Trump moderator.

Americans were robbed of a true and robust debate in 2020, Wiles and LaCivita said.

Trump has called for speeding up the start of the debate cycle against Biden before, prompting the president to push back.

If I were him, Id want him to debate me, too, Biden recently quipped to reporters in Nevada. Hes got nothing else to do.
Update: Iran launched drone attacks against Israel on Saturday. Read CBS News' latest coverage here.

Tel Aviv  Israel is bracing for a worst-case scenario that U.S. officials believe could materialize within just hours  the possibility of a direct attack on Israeli soil by Iran in retaliation for a strike almost two weeks ago that killed seven Iranian military officers. Iran has vowed to take revenge for Israel killing its commanders, who were hit by an April 1 strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria's capital.

Two U.S. officials told CBS News that a major Iranian attack against Israel was expected as soon as Friday, possibly to include more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles aimed at military targets inside the country. Sources have told CBS News the retaliation could include attacks carried out both by Iranian forces, and proxy groups around the region that it has been funneling additional arms to for weeks.

The officials said it would be challenging for the Israelis to defend against an attack of that magnitude, and while they held out the possibility that the Iranians could opt for a smaller-scale attack to avoid a dramatic escalation, their retaliation was believed to be imminent.

Asked Friday how imminent he believes an attack is, President Biden responded, "I don't want to get into secure information, but my expectation is sooner than later." The president urged Iran not to move forward, saying his message to Tehran was: "Don't."

Tehran has not indicated publicly how or when it will return fire, so it's unclear how far Iran's leaders will go. If they decide to carry out a direct attack on Israel, there's fear it could blow Israel's ongoing war against Iranian ally Hamas up into a much wider regional conflict.

With the Iranian retaliation expected at any time, the U.S. State Department on Thursday warned Americans in Israel not to travel outside major cities, which are better protected from incoming rocket fire by the country's Iron Dome missile defense system. The latest guidance noted that travel by U.S. government employees in Israel could be further restricted with little notice as things develop in the tinderbox region.

"Whoever harms us, we will harm them," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday as he visited troops at an Israel Defense Forces airbase. "We are prepared  both defensively and offensively."

Members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) burn Israeli and U.S. flags during a funeral for members of the IRGC's elite Quds Force who were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Syria, in Tehran, Iran, April, 2024. / Credit: Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto/Getty

On Saturday, all U.S. embassies in the Middle East were put on high alert and required to hold emergency action committee meetings. Diplomats in Lebanon and Israel were specifically told not to travel to certain areas within those countries.

Sima Shine, a security expert and former official with Israel's national intelligence agency Mossad, told CBS News it was a dangerous moment for the region, and the "most worried" she has been. She said anxiety over an all-out war was likely just as high "on both sides, in Israel and in Iran."

If Iran does choose to strike Israel directly, it could involve a complex missile and drone attack similar to the one Iranian forces launched against a Saudi oil facility in 2019.

"They will try to do it on the military or some military asset," Shine predicted. "But the question will be the damage. If there would be many injured people, killed or injured  I think it has the potential for a huge escalation."

Iranians stand in front of an anti-U.S. and anti-Israeli banner during a rally commemorating International Quds Day, also known as Jerusalem Day, during a funeral for members of the IRGC Quds Force who were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Syria, in Tehran, Iran, April 5, 2024. / Credit: Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto/Getty

Shine stressed, however, that she still believes neither side actually wants a regional conflict.

U.S. "really trying to avoid war"

The U.S. sent a senior general to Israel this week to coordinate with the close American ally on any response it might make to an Iranian attack. Speaking Friday on "CBS Mornings," America's top military officer said, "we're really trying to avoid war."

"This is part of the dialogue that I have with my counterparts within the region, to include the Israeli chief of defense, who I talked to yesterday," said Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., adding that the U.S. military was "doing things not only to prevent a war, but at the same time, one of my primary things is to make sure all the forces in the region are protected."

"My role, as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, is to plan and prepare," Brown said. "That's one thing we do very well."

Brown's Israeli counterpart, Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, "completed a comprehensive situational assessment on the readiness of the IDF for all scenarios," Israel's military said Friday.

"The IDF is very strongly prepared, both offensively and defensively, against any threat," Halevi was quoted as saying in the statement. "The IDF continues to monitor closely what is happening in Iran and different arenas, constantly preparing to deal with existing and potential threats in coordination with the United States Armed Forces."

The IDF said the visiting U.S. general, Central Command chief Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, was taking part in the IDF's situational assessment.

The dilemma for Iran, said Israeli expert Shine, is to figure out how to deliver its promised response to Israel's attack in Syria, but in a way that does not lead to further escalation. Likewise, Shine said Israel could choose to show restraint when it responds to whatever Iran eventually does.

If either side gets the balance wrong, the consequences for the region, and even the world, could be dire.

Weijia Jiang, David Martin, Margaret Brennan and Olivia Gazis contributed reporting.

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FILE - Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger speaks at a press conference at the Georgia State Capitol on November 11, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. Raffensperger is the defendant in a voting rights trial set to start on Monday, April 15, 2024.

A voting rights trial against Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is slated to begin Monday, with the nonprofit organization VoteAmerica challenging a 2021 election law that impacted individual voters and voting rights advocates alike.

SB 202, an omnibus election bill also known as the "Election Integrity Act of 2021," placed new restrictions on early and absentee voting, imposing stricter ID verification requirements on mail-in ballots and shortening the window of time in which voters could request absentee ballots be sent to them. The law also capped the number of absentee ballot drop boxes to one per 100,000 residents, and removed a pandemic-era provision that allowed voters to access drop boxes outside of regular business hours.

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The new law also restricts third-party organizations from distributing absentee ballot applications and imposes a $100 penalty for each duplicate absentee ballot application sent to voters in Georgia.

The lawsuit, known as VoteAmerica et al v. Raffensperger et al, alleges that these changes impede on citizens First Amendment rights, and place an undue burden on organizations that seek to improve voter participation. The case was first filed in April 2021.

Rather than celebrating Georgians record-breaking turnout and success in conducting two secure elections in a span of two months, the Georgia General Assembly instead enacted Senate Bill 202 ... through a secretive and extremely accelerated legislative process, with little to no opportunity for public input or review, the lawsuit notes. ... SB 202 directly and severely burdens Plaintiffs core political speech, which includes communications and expressive activities aimed at encouraging voters to participate in the political process through absentee voting.

Raffensperger's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday.

Elections 2024: Mark your calendars: Here is every date you need to know to vote in Georgia in 2024

In the nearly three years since SB 202 was signed into law, it has already faced legal challenges from numerous advocacy groups, including the ACLU, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Legal Defense Fund.

In 2023, Judge J.P. Boulee struck down a provision that banned anyone from providing food or water to voters waiting in line at the polls, as well as a provision that required voters to include their date of birth on the envelope of their absentee ballot.

Judge Boulee is once again presiding over the case, which will be held at the U. S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia in Atlanta. Court proceedings will begin at 9 a.m.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Voting rights: Absentee ballot suit against Raffensperger to begin Monday
Washington state has just joined Ohio and Alabama in signifying through election officials that President Joe Biden could be left off their general election ballots due to conflicts between the dates of the Democratic National Committee's nominating convention and state ballot deadlines. The Evergreen state, though, appears to have already proposed a way for the Democrat to remain eligible.

On Thursday, the director of elections at the office of Washington's Secretary of State sent a letter -- obtained by ABC News -- to DNC Chair Jamie Harrison, warning that the deadline for ballot certification under state law falls on Aug. 20, the day after the DNC convenes in Chicago to nominate their presidential and vice presidential selections.

Stuart Holmes, the Director of Elections under Democratic Secretary Steve Hobbs, signaled that their office would make an exception for the party if they submit a provisional certification of nomination no later than Aug. 20, according to the letter.

This comes as Ohio and Alabama's Republican Secretaries of State over the past week have indicated they'd enforce similar state election codes in a way that experts have said is unprecedented and perhaps partisan in nature.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden looks on during his visit at the Chavis Community Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, Mar. 26, 2024. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters)

MORE: MAGA win makes GOP Senate math tougher in Ohio: ANALYSIS

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen have alerted Democrats about comparable conflicts between their respective state's deadlines and the scheduling of the DNC convention in mid-August, cautioning that Biden's nomination in Chicago comes too late to get on their general election ballots.

In Ohio, LaRose flagged in a letter last week that the DNC's convention, set to begin on Aug. 19, would miss their Aug. 7 ballot certification deadline. In Alabama, Allen sent a letter to Democrats on Tuesday warning that their Aug. 15 cutoff would occur before the convention.

This scheduling conflict isn't a new obstacle -- a late August convention has occurred several times in past years for both parties -- but states have historically avoided banning major party candidates from their ballots by either easily granting provisional ballot access, the way Washington is suggesting, or working through their legislatures to allow certification extensions.

But now, the red-state officials, experts say, are uniquely leveraging the issue against Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominees, even as their predecessors made exceptions for former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence to appear on their ballots when the when the RNC convention came too late for their certification.

"This has not been something anybody has ever dealt with.  [The GOP Secretaries] just cooked it up. No, this has never happened before," Elaine Kamarck, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a member of the Democratic National Committee, said.

Richard Winger, a ballot access expert and political analyst, agreed.

"These deadlines don't exist for partisan reasons. ... But it is kind of partisan this year," he told ABC News.

"You have to go all the way back to 1964 to find a state that kept a major party presidential candidate off the ballot, and that had nothing to do with deadlines.  There's never ever since been a major party candidate who was off the ballot in any state," Winger added.

PHOTO: Frank LaRose, Republican candidate for Senate, speaks during his meet and greet event at Tremont Coffee in Massillon, Ohio on Saturday, Mar. 16, 2024. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images)

MORE: Biden could face challenges getting on Ohio general ballot

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Now, the Biden campaign, along with Democratic officials, are looking into ways to ensure the president will appear on the ballot in front of Ohio and Alabama voters.

In response to the news from Ohio and Alabama, Biden's reelection campaign has maintained that "Joe Biden will be on the ballot in all 50 states." They see this happening first by provisional certification (the process of formally notifying states before the convention that they expect Biden to be the nominee); second by changing the state's election filing deadlines through the state's GOP-controlled legislatures; third through litigation in court; and finally, by virtually nominating the Biden-Harris ticket ahead of their in-person convention.

Historically, in both Ohio and Alabama -- and across a handful of other states -- provisional ballot access certification has been granted to nominees of both major parties if they weren't able to square their convention dates with state election code certification deadlines.

Ahead of the 2020 general election, Oklahoma, Illinois, Washington and Montana accepted provisional certifications from the DNC and the Republican National Committee. Alabama also accepted a provisional certification from Republicans that year in order to make Trump and Pence qualify.

In 2020, the Alabama legislature moved their certification deadline for that election only to Aug. 20, 2020, but that was still ahead of the Republican convention's end a week later. The RNC then submitted a provisional certification, which was accepted by the state.

In Ohio, the Biden campaign has said they are in conversation with the Secretary's office about steps forward in terms of provisional certification.

In a letter received by the Ohio Secretary of State and reviewed by ABC News this week, Democratic Ohio-based lawyer Donald McTigue said the Democratic party would provisionally certify Biden and Harris by the state's Aug. 7 deadline and later confirm the results at the convention.

Ben Kindel, a spokesperson for LaRose's office, said their legal counsel was in the process of reviewing the letter.

In Alabama, attorney Barry Ragsdale, representing the Biden campaign, sent a letter -- obtained by ABC News -- to general counsel for the Alabama Secretary of State's office on Wednesday, saying the DNC could provisionally certify Biden and Harris as party nominees by the state's Aug. 15 deadline and then later confirm the results at the convention.

"This proposal avoids the constitutional problems that would arise if your office were to interpret Ala. Code  17-14-31(b)'s certification deadline to preclude President Biden and Vice President Harris from appearing on the Alabama general election ballot," Ragsdale wrote.

"It would allow the many Alabamians who support President Biden and Vice President Harris to exercise their fundamental constitutional right to meaningfully participate in the presidential election," he added.

In response to the letter, Allen said in a statement to ABC News that he would not provide "for 'provisional certifications' or any other exceptions."

PHOTO: Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden speaks during the Democratic National Convention at the Chase Center in Wilmington, Delaware, Aug. 20, 2020. (Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

If provisional ballot certification cannot be achieved, the Biden official said their strategy would shift to the state legislatures. This legislative action has worked not only in Alabama but also in Ohio, where laws were passed ahead of both the 2012 and 2020 elections to skirt around the state's 90-day deadline for nomination ahead of an election. These laws aided both Republicans and Democrats in getting their candidates on the ballot, most recently in 2020, when Democrats and Republicans both held conventions ahead of the deadline.

In their initial letter to Democrats, legal counsel for Secretary LaRose gave two options: either move up the date of the DNC convention or by May 9, the state's GOP-led legislature would need to pass a law allowing for an extension.

In the days following Alabama's warning to Biden, Democratic state senator Merika Coleman introduced a bill that would move the state's deadline back to Aug. 23, after the DNC Convention.

One of the final courses of action would be through litigation in court, which the Biden campaign claims they have a "strong case" for.

In their letter to Alabama leadership, Biden's counsel wrote that "a court would have little difficulty finding that strict application of the eighty-two- day deadline imposes a severe restriction on President Biden and Vice President Harris's access to the ballot," arguing that the state's actions in barring the presumptive nominees were "unjust and unconstitutional."

Courts might even cite the recent Supreme Court decision on Trump v. Anderson, the challenge that sought to bar Trump from Colorado's GOP primary ballot, as the high court's justices ruled that states have no power to bar candidates for federal offices  especially the Presidency -- from appearing on the ballot.

The final step would be for the DNC to hold a virtual vote to nominate the Biden-Harris ticket before their August convention.

"If for some reason they don't do the provisional certification, there's the legislature. If, for some reason, the legislature doesn't play ball and we have litigation, the case for litigation is really strong. But if for some reason we are unsuccessful, then we have this procedure on this that the DNC can use and like completely nullify the issue," a Biden campaign official said to ABC News.

"So bottom line is we're gonna be on the ballot in both these states," they added.

ABC News has requested comment from Washington's Secretary of State.

-- ABC News' Kendall Ross contributed to this report.

Washington rule could leave Biden off the November ballot, but state has a solution originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
A Wisconsin woman who, at age 12, admitted she stabbed a classmate to appease a fictitious horror movie character, will remain at a psychiatric hospital despite her attorney's plea for her release.

Morgan Geyser, who turns 22 next month, will remain at the mental institution where she has been committed since 2018 for treatment, a judge ruled Thursday, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported.

Following a two-day motion hearing, Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Michael Bohren denied the petition for Geyser's conditional release which means she will remain under the care of the Winnebago Mental Health Institute.

In 2014, Geyser and a friend Anissa Weier, lured Payton Leutner into the woods and stabbed her 19 times with a 5-inch blade, leaving her for dead. Leutner crawled to a trail where she was found by a passing bicyclist.

Geyser was found not guilty by reason of mental defect in 2017 in Leutner's attempted slaying on the southern edge of Waukesha, a city part of the Milwaukee metropolitan area.

The girls said they carried out the stabbing to appease the 'Slender Man'  as seen in the 2018 film, thus the case being referred to as the Slender Man case.

Morgan Geyser appears in a Waukesha County Circuit courtroom for a hearing on Sept. 21, 2015.

As of Friday, Geyser remained at the institute under a 40-year commitment term ordered by Bohren six years ago.

Here is a timeline of the case that drew national media attention:

May 2014: Payton Leutner stabbed in the woods

After a sleepover on May 31, 2014, the girls lure Leutner into the woods and attack her. Geyser and Weier are found hours later by police on the side of the road and tell investigators they are on their way to live with the fictional Internet character Slender Man. They are charged with attempted first-degree murder the next day.

Morgan Geyser is led out of Waukesha County Circuit Court after her petition for conditional release was denied on Thursday, April 11, 2024. Geyser had petitioned the court for conditional release from a mental institution where she has been under care since the end of the so-called Slender Man case.

August 2014

Judge Michael Bohren finds Geyser incompetent and suspends the prosecution of the charges against her.

December 2014

Bohren rules both girls can understand the charges against them and aid in their own defense.

February 2015: 'Kill or be killed' belief

During a preliminary hearing, Geyser's attorney tells the judge his client believed she had to kill or she would be killed herself by the Slender Man.

Bohren rejects the argument that the girls acted under a "kill or be killed" belief, which would have made the offense attempted second-degree intentional homicide and required the girls to be tried in juvenile court.

June 2015: History of schizophrenia revealed

Geyser's family history of schizophrenia is revealed at a court hearing, in which an expert witness reveals that Geyser's father had suffered from a similar mental illness as an adolescent and was hospitalized at least four times when he was 14 or 15.

January 2016

A civil judge approves sending Geyser to a state mental hospital where she gets her first treatment for schizophrenia, including medication that her lawyer says quells the voices from imaginary friends like Slender Man.

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July 2016: Charged as adults

Weier and Geyser are charged as adults, affirming a trial judge's ruling in 2015 that the two girls had failed to show "by a preponderance of evidence" that they should be transferred from adult court to juvenile court. The girls' lawyers have repeatedly said their client's cases should take place in juvenile court.

August 2016

Geyser enters a plea of not guilty by reason of mental disease.

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September 2016

Weier pleads not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect.

August 2017

Weier pleads guilty to attempted second-degree homicide, and will proceed to trial only on whether her mental condition at the time should make her legally responsible for the crime.

September 2017

A jury finds Weier not guilty as a result of mental disorder.

Geyser also pleads guilty but not be held criminally liable and will remain at the state mental hospital where she has been getting treatment for nearly 18 months.

December 2017: Anissa Weier sentenced

At age 15, Weier is committed to 25 years at a mental health institution. She is to spend at least three years in the institute before seeking release on community supervision. Her supervision will last until she is 37.

February 2018: Morgan Geyser sentenced

Geyser is committed to 40 years of mental health treatment and monitoring and ordered to remain at a mental health institute.

Bohren orders the maximum commitment term for Weier after hearing from experts who said Geyser, now 15, could receive more effective treatment for her schizophrenia somewhere other than where she is currently housed with adults who have committed crimes.

July 2021

Bohren granted Weier conditional release after finding she does not pose a risk to herself to the community.

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September 2021: Anissa Weier released

Weier is released from the Winnebago Mental Health Institute on Sept. 13 and will serve out the rest of her commitment in the community. She will be monitored with a GPS tracking device and will be supervised with case managers until she's 37 years old.

September 2023: Anissa Weier freed from GPS monitor

Weier was subsequently freed from electronic monitoring in 2023.

April 2024: Morgan Geyser denied release

Bohren denied the petition for conditional release of Geyser. She will remain at the mental institution where she has been committed since 2018 for treatment.

Contributing: Christopher Kuhagen

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Slender Man case: Everything thats happened since 2014 stabbing


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BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China has lodged solemn representations to Japan on Friday over its negative moves in Washington, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Liu Jinsong, director general of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, summoned Chief Minister of the Embassy of Japan in China Yokochi Akira to lodge solemn representations and express serious concerns and strong dissatisfaction over Japan's negative moves during the Japan-U.S. summit in Washington and the trilateral summit among the United States, Japan and the Philippines.

China has also lodged solemn representations to the Philippines on the same day over its remarks during the trilateral summit.

On April 11, the leaders of the United States, Japan and the Philippines held their first trilateral summit in Washington and issued a Joint Vision Statement after the summit.

Previously, the United States claimed that this summit and the U.S.-Japan-Philippines cooperation "is not aimed at" China. However, the Statement discusses the South China Sea issue at length, blames China on the East China Sea issue and contains irresponsible comments on the Taiwan question.

"China strongly opposes the practice of bloc politics by relevant countries. We firmly oppose any acts that stoke and drive up tensions, and harm other countries' strategic security and interests. We are seriously against forming exclusive groupings in this region," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks when asked to comment on a related query at a regular press briefing on Friday.

She said that Japan and the Philippines have every right to develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not introduce bloc confrontation into this region, still less engaging in trilateral cooperation at the expense of other countries' interests.

"To know whether the trilateral summit and cooperation is truly not aimed at China, the answer is right there in the trilateral statement. What else could it be if it's not a smear and attack against China?" Mao said.

On the Taiwan question, Mao said it is purely China's internal affair, adding that resolving the Taiwan question is a matter of the Chinese own and no one can interfere in it. The biggest threat to cross-Strait peace now is the separatist activities of "Taiwan independence" forces, and external connivance and support for them.

If relevant countries truly care about cross-Strait peace and stability, and want the world to be safe and prosperous, they should uphold the one-China principle, oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities unequivocally, and support China's reunification, she said.

"This is the right way to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. No one should underestimate the will and capability of the Chinese people to safeguard our sovereignty and territorial integrity," Mao said.

To respond to the South China Sea issue and the East China Sea issue, Mao said that China has indisputable sovereignty over Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands and Nanhai Zhudao.

"Our activities in the East China Sea and South China Sea are lawful, justified and beyond reproach," said Mao.

China does not accept relevant countries' groundless accusation and deliberate smears against China on the East China Sea and South China Sea, does not accept the illegal arbitral award on the South China Sea or any unilateral moves based on the award, Mao said.

The situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea is generally stable, she noted, adding that certain countries keep seeking backing from non-regional countries as they infringe on China's sovereignty and rights, and make provocations at sea.

What they have done has escalated the tensions. Certain country outside the region keep fueling the flame and stoking confrontation. This is flagrant, said the spokesperson.

"Let me stress once again that China will firmly guard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and we remain committed to properly settling bilateral maritime issues through dialogue and consultation with countries directly concerned. And we resolutely oppose non-regional countries' meddling and sowing discords to escalate the situation," Mao said. 
YEREVAN, APRIL 12, ARMENPRESS. Armenia's relations with the European Union and the West, in general, have indeed reached an unprecedented level of volume and quality because new avenues and spheres of cooperation have been delineated, indicating significant potential for further development. This marks the onset of a new phase in relations, with Armenia being increasingly perceived by the West as a democratic state striving to confront various challenges and threats posed by authoritarian regimes.

Political scientist Edgar Vardanyan expressed this opinion in an interview with "Armenpress," referring to the evolving relations between Armenia and the European Union.

"There is a perception in the West that Armenia views itself as part of the Western sphere in terms of values and civilization. Recent actions by Armenia have led the West to believe that our country is undergoing radical changes in its foreign policy, driven by two primary objectives. Firstly, Armenia faces significant security challenges that require alignment with the Western sphere to address and resolve. Secondly, foreign policy changes are expected to catalyze the deepening of democratic reforms within Armenia," Vardanyan said.

According to the political scientist, first and foremost, the EU is a political and economic structure. Therefore, we should assess how it can contribute to the strengthening of our security, regardless of other factors.

''We have already established certain formats and mechanisms, one of which, for example, is the mission of European observers stationed along the Armenian-Azerbaijani borderan unprecedented phenomenon. While it is technically a civilian mission, its objective is to contribute to security efforts aimed at bolstering peace. Moreover, years ago, the EU introduced a significant initiative known as the Peace Fund. This initiative offers specific tools to non-EU member states to address their security challenges. Although the majority of the fund's activities are geared towards supporting Ukraine, given the recent meeting in Brussels on April 5, we can anticipate cooperation in this direction as well. Armenia stands to benefit from accessing certain funds that will be utilized to fortify our security," said our interlocutor.

According to Vardanyan's observation, it is evident that France, as a member of the EU, is fostering an unprecedented military-political cooperation with Armenia, despite Armenia's status as an ally of the Russian Federation. This cooperation also holds significant potential for further development.

"We are receiving weapons from France, and that country has recently expressed its profound support for Armenia in a much more significant manner. Negotiations are also underway with the United States regarding how Washington can support the strengthening of our security. The US ambassador recently mentioned that they will provide us with, for example, armored mobile vehicles to offer medical assistance to the military. It's crucial to remember that even formal and inactive participation in the CSTO poses a certain obstacle to deepening Armenia's military-political cooperation with the West. While relations can progress within certain constraints and reach a certain threshold, further deepening may already hinge on whether we continue to maintain our formal ties with the CSTO and whether we reconsider Armenian-Russian strategic relations," said the political scientist.

According to Vardanyan, the improvement of relations between the Republic of Armenia and the EU is not aimed at targeting third countries, particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran. Therefore, the Iranian side has no reason to be concerned in this regard.

The EU also acknowledges that Armenia maintains strong and amicable relations with Iran. Generally, the West, including the EU, is endeavoring to enhance ties with Iran. While neighboring countries outside of the Western sphere may harbor certain apprehensions about the deepening relations between our country and the European Union, these concerns are unfounded. It is important for us to demonstrate the irrationality of these fears. In turn, the EU is making efforts to address and alleviate such concerns," explained our interlocutor.

Speaking about the prospects of Republic of Armenia-EU economic relations, Vardanyan emphasized that our country is not yet prepared to fully integrate into the European economy. However, he noted that the situation could change favorably in a very short period of time.

It is imperative for the European integration process to be bilateral. On one hand, we must ensure that all legislative and administrative regulations are aligned with European standards, and our businesses must strive to enhance product quality, acquire new equipment, and endeavor to meet European standards. Following the trilateral meeting in Brussels on April 5, it became evident that the EU is prepared to support Armenia in this regard by providing substantial funding to small and medium-sized enterprises. The EU can also expedite the removal of barriers for Armenia to some extent by granting certain privileges, establishing a special regime, and setting deadlines. This would enable Armenian businessmen, whose products may currently fall short of the high European standards, to rectify the situation and produce goods that meet the required standards within a specified timeframe," said the political scientist.

Referring to the issue of visa liberalization with EU countries, Vardanyan expressed his anticipation for the adoption of a road map with specific dates based on the outcomes of the April 5 meeting. However, he noted that no such development occurred.

It means that there are still unresolved issues. In the European Union, there is the experience of other countries with which a visa liberalization regime operates. However, there are also quite serious complaints within the European Union regarding this matter, as many individuals abuse this regime, causing problems for the European Union. Additionally, resolving this issue requires consensus within the EU, which is a complex and time-consuming process. Nevertheless, I believe that this issue will be resolved in the future. If we consider that the visa liberalization regime entails the removal of visa requirements, then it's worth mentioning that countries like Georgia and others, although not requiring visas, have maintained strict conditions for visits by citizens. If the process is simplified for our citizenssuch as the complete removal of visa fees, reduction in required documents, and elimination of long queues and wait timesthis would constitute a form of liberalization. Regardless, the liberalization of visas is a necessary condition as it will contribute to strengthening Republic of Armenia-EU ties. In such a scenario, the Armenian society will feel fully integrated into the European territory and the European democratic community," said the political scientist.

Manvel Margaryan
YEREVAN, APRIL 12, ARMENPRESS. A regular meeting of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Foreign Ministers Council will be held in Moscow on October 7, CIS Secretary General Sergey Lebedev said at the Councils meeting in Minsk.

"We decided to hold the next Foreign Ministers Council meeting on October 7, 2024 in the capital of Moscow," Tass quoted Sergey Lebedev as saying.

Armenia participated at the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the CIS held in Minsk at the level of Deputy Foreign Minister.

Eearlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia announced that Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, would not attend the meeting.
SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced during an election rally in Udhampur that Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held soon, signalling the eventual restoration of its statehood. He criticised Article 370, considering it a part of the state's bitter history, and challenged Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, to reinstate it.

Using his famous catchphrase 'Modi ki guarantee,' he assured people that he will fulfil their aspirations, saying he has a vision beyond the current changes in J&K.

"Modi also thinks far ahead. So, what has been done in J&K, so far, is just the trailer. Now I have to go down to creating a new and wonderful picture of the new Jammu and Kashmir. The time is not far when Assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir. It will get the status of statehood. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLA and your ministers," he said.

He pledged to work for the creation of a fabulous picture of Naya (new) Jammu and Kashmir in the days to come". He promised them that all the issues of every section of the society in J&K will be resolved and said that the ongoing road and tunnel construction projects will be completed at a fast pace. "Companies and factories from across the country and outside will come to Jammu and Kashmir. New railway, tunnel and road projects are coming up. A record number of tourists are coming to Jammu and Kashmir," he said, adding that the Union Territory ought to become a start-up hub.

"The political parties here would mean 'of the family, by the family and for the family'. They caused great loss to Jammu and Kashmir. For power, they created the barrier of Article 370 between J&K and the rest of the country, but my government demolished this barrier," he added.

Modi challenged Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, regarding the benefits of Article 370's abrogation. He highlighted the empowerment of marginalized communities and dared any party to advocate for its reinstatement, asserting that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir proved detractors wrong by embracing the change.

Modi criticised the Congress, for accusing the BJP of politicising the Ram temple issue. He said that the Ram Mandir is a matter of faith for the nation, not a political tool.

Modi likened the Congress's stance on the Ram Mandir to the Mughals' attitude towards temples, alleging that they disrespect Hindu sentiments. He highlighted the historical significance of the Ram Mandir movement and condemned the Congress for declining the invitation to its consecration ceremony.

Asserting the victory of tolerance after 500 years, Modi emphasized the people's devotion to Lord Ram and their contribution to the temple's construction. He criticized the opposition for rejecting invitations from temple trustees, despite efforts to reconcile.

The Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency is witnessing a triangular contest, with BJP's Jitendra Singh, Congress's Choudhary Lal Singh, and DPAP's G.M. Saroori competing.

The Prime Minister lambasted the Congress, NC, and PDP, blaming dynastic politics and corruption for J&K's plight. He highlighted the government's efforts to dismantle barriers like Article 370, claiming progress in eradicating terrorism and separatism.

Modi pledged continued development in J&K, promising resolution of societal issues and accelerated completion of infrastructure projects. He envisioned J&K as a hub for startups and tourism, reflecting a transformation from despair to hope among its people.
A buzz-worthy land deal in Haryana, featuring a senior female IAS officer, her spouse (who happens to be the state information commissioner) and a former additional chief secretary has hit a snag due to some red flags raised by Panchkula revenue officials.

It began in September last year when Ambala divisional commissioner Renu Phulia made a swift quasi-judicial decision to lift a decades-old injunction on the sale and purchase of a 14-acre land parcel near Panchkula, originally owned by a royal family. This decision, prompted by a petition from the brother of former additional chief secretary Shashi Gulati, was surprisingly expedited within a mere 16 days.

Shortly after this decision, Renus husband, S.S. Phulia, the current state information commissioner and a former IAS officer, expressed keen interest in acquiring five acres of this prime land. According to official records, Shashi Gulati got hold of this land parcel, but heres the catch: Some areas in Panchkula have been under a 20-year freeze on land transactions as the authorities grapple with determining surplus land under the Haryana Ceiling on Land Holdings Act.

The Punjab and Haryana high courts directive in February 2023 added fuel to the fire, compelling Panchkulas SDM to re-evaluate surplus lands, leading to a series of procedural actions.

In their plea to the Ambala Commissioner, Shashi Gulatis family argued to scrap the stay order, insisting the land didnt fall under surplus criteria. Renu Phulias decision to overturn the stay order came through a quasi-judicial order in September 2023. She asserted that the land in question fell within permissible areas, further stressing that all necessary government permissions were secured for the purchase. But the controversy refuses to die down.

IPS officer repatriated amid allegations and investigations

An airport drama in Guwahati, complete with allegations, investigations and an IPS officer sent packing! Quite a spicy saga unfolded as a senior IPS officer was swiftly repatriated to his parent Uttar Pradesh cadre, with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) giving him the boot. No reasons given, of course, but just a mysterious shuffle back to where it all began. The snap strike by Vistara Air pilots may have overshadowed this crisis. Still, some tidbits are slowly emerging about what happened, which the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the home ministry were tight-lipped about.

From what is now known, the Guwahati airport police chief complained to the state police claiming that a senior officer of CRPF in the northeast zone had harassed a female employee at the Guwahati airport. Sensing a potential scandal, a female police officer quickly conducted a preliminary investigation. It was discovered that the officer made not-so-subtle advances to the unwilling recipient. However, what saved the cop was that the lady in question decided not to pursue the matter further. A heartfelt apology was all it took to smooth things over. No case was registered.

While that matter has been hopefully settled, the officer found himself packing his bags and bidding farewell to his temporary posting. Whatll happen to him now, the home ministry will likely decide. For now, hell cool his heels in his home state.

AP high court aims at healthcare fund irregularities

The recent buzz around the alleged irregularities in setting up the AP MedTech Zone at Visakhapatnam and the mishandling of funds from the National Health Mission has set tongues wagging in Andhra Pradesh in the middle of poll fever. Further, the Andhra Pradesh high court has served notices to several key officials, including special chief secretary Poonam Malakondiah and AP MedTech Zone CEO Jitender Kumar Sharma.

The allegations swirling around the AP MedTech Zone have raised questions about accountability and oversight in the allocation and utilisation of public funds earmarked for crucial health initiatives. And, in poll season, the issue is likely to pose a problem for the state chief minister, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy who is fighting anti-incumbency.

The decision by the high court to call for counter-affidavits within three weeks demonstrates a commitment to expeditiously address these concerns and ensure accountability. The state government is hoping that the issue will blow over quickly without causing serious damage to its reputation while its opponents would be happy to have it drag. While this legal saga will occupy the time of the concerned officers, hopefully it will provide some much-needed answers to the people in the state.
We know that Aurangzeb was very cruel

Fundamental Islam was his main fuel

And yet they say he was a humble man

Shunning indulgence, existing on gruel.

Emperor Akbar was benevolent

He didnt go where Aurangzeb went

Calling all religions to be as one

He probably thought he was heaven sent.

From The Rub-a dubaiyat, by Bachchoo

Channel Four TV made and transmitted three documentaries on the fights that the Asian communities of Britain put up against the British National Front, the fascist party of the 1980s and 1990s. About time.

When I worked at Channel Four from the 1984 to 1997, we reported on the incidents as they occurred as news. Now its history.

The docus concentrated on three Asian communities: Firstly, Southall, where in 1976 Gurdeep Singh Chaggar, a young Sikh, was murdered on the streets. This sparked a protest movement with huge demonstrations, the footage of which the documentaries featured, interspersed with the recollections of activists who emerged to organise the new radical spirit of the community that turned to resistance.

The second area of conflict was Tower Hamlets in the East End of London, a predominantly Bangladeshi settlement where in 1978 a young man called Altab Ali was murdered near Brick Lane. The documentaries showed footage of the demonstrations that followed, again interspersed with people who claimed to organise the revolt against the National Front.

The third Asian community history on display was that of the Bradford Twelve, who were accused and tried for the possession of petrol bombs. Their defence was that they were preparing for a violent invasion of Bradford by the National Front. The invasion never took place and the unused bombs were discovered and the twelve put on trial. A campaign was launched on their behalf and they were finally acquitted.

The NF, with their avowed policy of getting rid of immigrants, then held a much-publicised meeting in Southall Town Hall in April 1979. The community rose in protest and an attempt to block their entry to Southall was launched.

The NF intruders were protected by an unprecedented police presence to hold off and even arrest the Asian objectors who witnessed these racists defiantly entering the town hall making rude gestures. The documentaries featured footage of these moments.

Hundreds of groups from all over the country supported the anti-NF demonstration, including the London branch of the National Union of Teachers, one of whom, Blair Peach, was killed that day by a police truncheons blow to his head. No charges were ever brought for his murder. Gentle reader, I was on that demonstration and knew Blair, as we were both members of a radical presence in the NUT.

The documentaries claimed that the murder of Altab Ali in the East End transformed the hitherto passive Bangladeshi community of Tower Hamlets into a radical resistant force which then proceeded to defend the community and chase the NF from thence.

Gentle reader, I might have made the documentary with a different story.

In 1976 I was part of a radical activist collective called Race Today. A sweatshop worker from Brick Lane called our office asking for help. We turned up at the address he gave us  the only house in that street that remained unboarded-up. Twelve Bangladeshi men lived, four to a room, there. They believed they had bought the house but in fact had been swindled. The house and street belonged to the Greater London Council, who were now coming to evict them as the street was marked for demolition.

On the day that the GLCs eviction squad arrived, we members of the Race Today collective gathered outside. A young Irishman called Terry Fitzpatrick, an ex-squaddie, was passing by and, after enquiring what was going on, confronted the GLC-wallas saying they were illegally evicting the residents as they were legal squatters entitled to residence there, as he himself was down another street.

The GLC-wallas were aware of this law and pushed off. Thus began the Bengali Housing Action Group (BHAG), with twenty young Bengalis joining Terry and Race Today to squat 600 Bengali families over the months in five streets of Tower Hamlets and a near-derelict housing estate called Pelham Buildings.

Many squatting families came from their council flats on housing estates where they were lone Bengalis subjected to regular abuse, physical attacks and vandalism to their residences from neighbours.

The other phenomenon that bedevilled the Bengali community was the random physical assaults on lone Bengalis by gangs of white men  a racist sport called Paki-bashing.

It was Terry and Race Today activists who organised several gangs of young Bangladeshi men into voluntary vigilante groups to patrol the housing estates and streets every day and into the night. The police claimed that this was illegal and we replied that if the legals did their job, the illegals wouldnt be needed.

As a result of the vigilante groups encountering skinhead gangs and vans, Paki-bashing stopped.

And it was Terry and the vigilantes who physically assaulted the National Front paper-sellers and told them never to return to the corner of Brick Lane. They didnt return.

Neither Terry (I suppose a white key activist wouldnt suit the Asian-hero theme?) nor even one of the members of the anti-racist vigilantes was interviewed in the documentaries.

A sin of omission in an otherwise laudable media project  which got this narrative wrong.
Two unidentified men stormed the church at 6 am and fired at least five shots, local sources report. Fr Paul Khwi Shane Aung, 40, was admitted to hospital in Moe Nyin, Kachin State, where he underwent emergency surgery.

Yangon (AsiaNews)  Two unidentified gunmen shot a Catholic priest as he celebrated Mass at St Patrick's Church in Moe Nyin, Diocese of Myitkyina, Kachin State.

Father Paul Khwi Shane Aung, 40, is currently in the local hospital, undergoing emergency surgery for his serious injuries.

Myanmar was plunged into a brutal civil conflict more than three years ago following a military coup, which Pope Francis mentioned in his general audience on Wednesday.

In several regions of the country, chaos and violence are a daily occurrence, affecting civilians and members of religious minorities.

Little information is available about what happened this morning. The shooting took place around 6 am, local time.

Two, black-clad, masked men arrived on a motorbike. Once inside the church, they fired at least five shots, local sources say.

Fr Paul Khwi Shane Aung, who has served the local parish for four years, and a woman were hit.
MEXICO CITY, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The Mexican government formally denounced Ecuador's government to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the police raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito on April 5, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena announced on Thursday.

"We want to test the international justice system," Barcena said alongside President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, at a daily press conference.

"We are experiencing a moment of extreme weakness in the multilateral world and in international relations. We see violations all over the world that affect not only diplomats, but the civilian population," she said.

Mexico's lawsuit aims to hold Ecuador accountable for breaching "the inviolability" of the embassy and calls for suspending the South American country as a member of the United Nations unless it offers a public apology.

According to Barcena, the ICJ could even rule on the matter to expel the country from the United Nations.

Police stormed Mexico's embassy in Quito on April 5 to arrest former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, just hours after Mexico granted him political asylum, prompting Mexico to sever ties with Ecuador.

"What we want is that a despicable event like the one that Mexico suffered, especially its diplomatic representation, is not repeated," said Obrador.

"That it is not repeated in any country in the world and that international law is guaranteed, that the premises, the embassies of countries in any nation are not violated and that the countries where the embassies are located be committed to protecting the independence and guaranteeing the sovereignty of those spaces. That is what we want," he said. 
The Holy See has officially announced the long journey to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore. Card Goh of Singapore hopes the pope will bring to his predominantly Chinese city, renewed fervour to all Catholics [. . .], especially in these most challenging of times. It will also be the first time a pontiff visits Dili since independence. For Card Carmo da Silva, the Holy Father comes to strengthen Timor-Lestes Church in the faith and love of Christ.

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  Pope Francis will undertake a long trip to Asia and Oceania at the end of the summer. The director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, issued an official statement to that effect, indicating dates and locations.

Back in January, the Government of Papua New Guinea had leaked some details about the trip while a few days ago, the bishops of Indonesia announced that the pope would visit their country.

Accepting the invitation of the respective Heads of State and Church Authorities, reads the press release signed by the director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, Pope Francis will undertake an Apostolic Journey to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Singapore from 2 to 13 September. He will visit Jakarta from 3 to 6 September, Port Moresby and Vanimo from 6 to 9 September, Dili from 9 to 11 September and Singapore from 11 to 13 September.

As is customary, the detailed schedule of each stop will be published in due course. Despite the popes recent health issues, this long and demanding 12-day journey confirms once again Pope Francis's great consideration for Asia.

The pontiff had been scheduled to visit Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste in 2020, but was forced to cancel due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This time, Singapore was added. Like Mongolia last year, the great crossroads of Southeast Asia is another privileged place to speak and reach out to the Chinese and the Sinic world, given that three quarters of the city-states population is ethnic Chinese.

Vietnam is not on the popes travel list this time. Improving relations in the recent past between Hanoi and the Holy See and the great desire of Vietnamese Catholics to welcome the pontiff's visit had raised hopes.

For Pope Francis, the planned journey was already very challenging. The sudden departure of President Vo Van Thuong, who had issued an official invitation to Pope Francis in December, probably weighed heavily on the decision not to include Vietnam this time.

Nevertheless, as the recent visit to Vietnam by Vatican Secretary for Relations with States Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher shows, the door for a papal visit appears to be still open and the trip is probably only postponed.

The Catholic Church in the countries the pontiff will visit issued statements confirming the papal trip in September. The Archdiocese of Singapore has already launched a website dedicated to the event.

"It has been 38 years since we had a visit from the Vicar of Christ to Singapore, when Pope St John Paul II honoured us with a visit on 20 November 1986, writes Archbishop William Goh in a statement.

It is my hope that this visit of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, will bring renewed fervour to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times, added the prelate, who was elevated to the cardinalship by Pope Francis himself.

Along with official state engagements, the archdiocese expects that the highlight of Pope Franciss stop in the Southeast Asian city-state will be a major Eucharistic celebration, likely on 12 September.

In Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, the Bishops Conference made the official announcement today in a press conference attended by Card Virgilio do Carmo da Silva and the Apostolic Nuncio, Rev Mgr Marco Sprizzi.

Franciss arrival will be a very important moment for the country (one of two Asian countries with a Catholic majority; the other one is the Philippines) which obtained its independence only in 2002, after much bloodshed and suffering.

John Paul II had already made a stop in Dili in 1989, when Timor-Leste was still a province of Indonesia, but was demanding its independence.

The Archbishop of Dili expressed the joy of the local Church for the September date, hoping the Timorese can participate and be together with the Holy Father, who comes mainly to meet them and strengthen Timor-Lestes Church in the faith and love of Christ.

[L]et us prepare ourselves with an intense prayer to welcome the Holy Father," added the secretary of the Timor-Leste Bishops' Conference, Fr Carlos Miguel Pereira, so that his visit will be the moment in which we reinvigorate our participation in building our ecclesial and civil community, in living our faith, and purifying our culture.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The Armenian National Assembly held an extraordinary closed-door session, requested by opposition parties, to discuss border demarcation procedures in the disputed territories. Baku now insists on the 'restitution' of eight villages in the Tavows region, while Yerevan claims that Azerbaijan has occupied 'all or part' of 31 of its localities.

Yerevan (AsiaNews) - The conflict over Nagorno Karabakh has been behind us for months now, although much tension remains in Armenia over the management of the many refugees from Artsakh, but relations with Azerbaijan are unable to achieve true stability, with continuous border skirmishes, mutual accusations of "provocations" and claims of towns, villages and lands.

The speaker of the Yerevan parliament, Alen Simonyan, has reiterated again in recent days that "there is not even talk of ceding other Armenian territories to Azerbaijan", responding to Baku's demands to hand over some population centers.

The Armenian National Assembly then held an extraordinary session behind closed doors, requested by the opposition parties Armenia and I have the Honor, which represent a third of the deputies, to discuss the procedures for delimitation and demarcation of the borders between the two countries in perpetuity conflict.

Negotiations on this matter have never started, which has made the conclusion of any peace agreement so far impossible. Deputy Prime Minister Mger Grigoryan declared that "until the problems of security, social coexistence and the principles of law are resolved, the decision to begin negotiations on the delimitation cannot be made."

The opposition asked for a debate open to the public, but the majority party of the Civil Agreement imposed secrecy for reasons of "national security", forcing deputies to hand over their cell phones and excluding from the chamber all those who do not have access to information secret.

The thorniest issue concerns the willingness expressed by the Yerevan government to concede during the negotiations a part of the Tavows region in the north-eastern part of the country, which has the city of Idzevan as its capital, what the opposition considers "a violation of international norms and the constitution itself".

According to Baku, there are eight villages in the area under Armenian control which should actually be assigned to the Azerbaijani administration.

As the Azerbaijani deputy prime minister Sakhin Mustafaev specified, four of these villages (Baganis-Ajrim, Asagy-Askipara, Khejrimly and Gyzylgadzily) "belong to Azerbaijan and must be liberated immediately", while for the other four (Jukhary-Askipara - in Armenian Verin-Voskepar, Sofulu, Barkhdarly, Kjarki  in Armenian Tigranasen) an agreed evaluation is necessary, while deeming their liberation necessary.

On the Armenian side, it is claimed that Azerbaijan has occupied "totally or partially" 31 Armenian villages, and Simonyan declared that "we are ready to return the Azerbaijani enclaves only if Baku gives us back our Artsvasen (in Azerbaijani Baskend), which alone occupies much more territory than all the Azerbaijani villages in our territory".

A delimitation commission was actually established at the beginning of March, led by the two deputy prime ministers Grigoryan and Mustafaev, and held seven preventive meetings, dealing with specifying the legal regulations of the negotiation process to be started.

Last March 18, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pasinyan visited the Tavows region, meeting the inhabitants of the villages of Voskepar, Baganis and Kirants, telling them that "the demarcation is moving to the operational stage, and we must do everything so that the war does not start again .

The inhabitants of the area had asked the prime minister not to return the border villages to Azerbaijan, threatening to block the roads and organize an autonomous defense of the entire region.

In the continuous game of roles, Armenians and Azeris at every opportunity relaunch different names of inhabited centers, already confused in themselves in the linguistic variants, and border areas differently calculated as extension, so much so that the border in any case would be a crazy maze between mountains and valleys.

Often these places and their names evoke ancient conflicts or other historical memories of the two peoples, on the border between Christianity and Islam and between Europe and Asia, where peace has always been only a hope for the future.
In a statement issued on Friday Armenias National Security Service (NSS) said that a conscript of the Armenian army manning the border near the village of Nerkin Khndzoresk in Armenias southern Syunik province together with border guards tried to help a local resident recover his flock of sheep that had crossed into Azerbaijani-controlled territory while grazing.

The NSS said that they attempted to cross the state border of the Republic of Armenia and recover the flock, thus violating the rules of border service.

It said that the reckless actions of the Armenian conscript identified only by his initials as Y. K. and unnamed border guards caused significant damage, including unnecessary shooting in the mentioned section of the border.

Peoples lives and health were exposed to obvious danger, the described actions caused a threat to the security of the state as well as a state of the lack of proper control in the mentioned section of the state border, the statement said.

The NSS also noted that a soldier of the State Border Service of Azerbaijan was wounded as a result of the incident.

It added that criminal proceedings had been initiated at the Investigative Committee and a preliminary investigation was ongoing to establish the circumstances of the incident and bring those responsible to justice.

The Investigative Committee told RFE/RLs Armenian Service that they have already initiated criminal proceedings under a Criminal Code article dealing with violation of the rules of border service.

Gor Abrahamian, a spokesperson for the Investigative Committee, said that a preliminary investigation was being carried out in order to establish the circumstances of the case and make legal assessments.

The Investigative Committee said, however, that no one had yet been indicted as part of the criminal investigation.

Immediately after the incident on April 10, the NSS expressed readiness to conduct a joint investigation with the border troops of Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani side did not respond to the offer.

The incident occurred amid tensions observed along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border since April 5 that both sides blamed on each other.

The last time Azerbaijan reported the wounding of its soldier by Armenian forces in February it launched a revenge operation, killing four Armenian soldiers and wounding another one in retaliation.

Immediately after the border shooting on February 12, in which an Azerbaijani serviceman was wounded, Armenia also pledged to investigate the circumstances of the incident, but reported no results of such an investigation subsequently.
J-10 jets engage in round-the-clock flight training

China Military Online) 10:21, April 12, 2024

A J-10 fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade with the air force under PLA Southern Theater Command soars up to the sky during a round-the-clock flight training exercise on March 26, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Shang Jieyan)

A pilot assigned to an aviation brigade with the air force under PLA Southern Theater Command taxies his J-10 fighter jet on the runway during a round-the-clock flight training exercise on March 26, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Shang Jieyan)

A ground crew member assigned to an aviation brigade with the air force under PLA Southern Theater Command inspects a J-10 fighter jet during a round-the-clock flight training exercise on March 26, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Shang Jieyan)

A J-10 attached to an aviation brigade with the air force under PLA Southern Theater Command taxies on the runway during a round-the-clock flight training exercise on March 26, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Shang Jieyan)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
China supports the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in playing a constructive role in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear facilities after recent drone attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP), a Chinese envoy said on Thursday. #XinhuaNews
A newly opened Telegram channel posted late on April 11 a message threatening shooting sprees in nearly two dozen schools in Yerevan, listing their specific numbers, as well as in two popular shopping malls in the Armenian capital.

There are 20 of us, we are not afraid, the police cannot catch us. We will shoot you dead and cut your throats. You will be destroyed in your own schools, the threatening post written in Russian and published on the Telegram channel called ArmeniaEnd said, announcing the attacks for April 12.

The message caused widespread panic early on Friday after parents apparently began to share it among themselves on Messenger and in other online chat groups.

Pushkin School in central Yerevan was one of many hit by the panic. Its personnel told RFE/RLs Armenian Service that while they tried to calm the students and their parents down, saying that they had been told by the authorities that the threat was a hoax, most, if not all, of the parents could not be convinced and insisted on taking their children out of school early, thus effectively disrupting classes.

An RFE/RL Armenian Service reporter noticed no police officers in the yard of the school where a group of students were reading and discussing what was written in the Telegram channel.

Minister of Education Zhanna Andreasian later told reporters that law enforcement bodies were investigating the case.

Only 15 hours after the appearance of the threat online Armenias National Security Service (NSS) addressed the matter, assessing the case as coordinated information terror.

The NSS urged members of the public not to panic, keeping in mind that such manifestations may be repeated.

Authorities said a criminal case on spreading false information about terrorism was initiated.

It is a hybrid war. Children must distinguish between the true [and fake] sources of information, Education Minister Andreasian said.
12 April 2024 20:53 (UTC+04:00)

Elnur Enveroglu Read more

Azerbaijani lands remained under Armenian occupation for thirty years, and during these three decades, Armenia's patron, mainly France tried to freeze the conflict in Garabagh through the mediation of the OSCE Minsk Group. All this was a botched plan prepared by the representatives of the European Union and the OSCE at that time in favour of Armenia, but later it would fail due to the will of Azerbaijan's state policy and diplomacy.

Today, Armenia, which wants to achieve everything and sees the country where it takes every step as its territory, accuses the OSCE Minsk Group, which does everything in its favour, of inept policy.

After 2020, when the geopolitics in the South Caucasus changed, Armenia raised a fuss in front of all the organizations of the European Union, from the UN, and began to accuse Azerbaijan as an invader. However, until now, Yerevan considered the 4 resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council as mere paper and ignored its articles.

After September 2023, Armenia completely despaired of the European Union organizations and began to accuse the parties that once defended it one by one. The first of these was Russia, with which the country's incumbent government began to break ties.

Yerevan, which once submitted to all decisions under Moscow's patronage, today, is trying to burn bridges by turning its face only to the West.

Now it is the turn of the OSCE Minsk Group, which dedicated its entire 30-year "productive period" to Armenia.

The Armenian side believes that the Minsk Group of the OSCE has simply approached to Armenia with negligence for 30 years. It is even mentioned in one of the social networks: "For 30 years, they threw us from side to side like a bag" - Pashinyan is to blame and the OSCE Minsk Group.

He called the activity of the co-chairmen of the OSCE MG group "legitimate geopolitical rivalry for the Republic of Armenia", they said one thing to Armenia and did another.

This is not the first ingratitude of Armenia towards its partners. This has been the case for many years and will continue to be so.

Now it is the turn of their most beloved sister country, France. They will probably have their turn soon, and soon Macron and his entourage will be criticized in the main news headlines of the Armenian media.

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Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews Deputy Editor-in-Chief; follow him on @ElnurMammadli1

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
12 April 2024 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Moldova, Ulvi Bakhshaliyev, has met with the Deputy Prime Minister of Moldova, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Vladimir Bolea.

Azernews reports, citing the post shared by the ambassador on "X" page.

Delighted to be received by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry of Moldova H.E. V.Bolea. It was nice opportunity to explore possibilities for the expansion of existing cooperation, as well as discuss areas where we can achieve fruitful results. pic.twitter.com/cqmflO61ib  Ulvi Bakhshaliyev (@UlviB1972) April 11, 2024

According to the information, the parties discussed the possibilities of expanding cooperation between the countries. At the same time, they emphasized that they are committed to the intensification of relations in the field of agriculture.

It should be noted that joint relations between Azerbaijan and Moldova have been formed for a long time, and later, thanks to the successful policy of President Ilham Aliyev, the relations between the two countries were further developed.

The meeting of the head of state with the President of Moldova Maia Sandu in Chisinau in May of last year and the discussions on political and economic relations between the two states, as well as energy issues and investment, can be highlighted due to their special importance.

Recall that, about two weeks ago the State Customs Committee (SCC) of Azerbaijan and the Customs Service of Moldova signed a Joint Declaration on cooperation in a move aimed at enhancing bilateral ties in the customs sector, according to the committee.

The declaration was formalized during a recent visit by a delegation from the State Customs Committee to Moldova.

Ambassador Ulvi Bakhshaliyev, focusing on bolstering the collaborative efforts between the customs services of both nations. Emphasis was placed on the significance of fortifying cooperation and facilitating the exchange of expertise.

As part of the delegations itinerary, members were afforded the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the operations of Moldovas legal department and anti-smuggling department within the Customs Service.

Additionally, visits were made to the Sculeni and Leuseni-Albita checkpoints situated along the border with Romania. The Azerbaijani delegation received comprehensive briefings on the intricacies of border crossing procedures and customs control protocols.

Both Azerbaijan and Moldova reaffirm their commitment to fostering constructive dialogue and partnership in various spheres, underscoring the importance of sustained collaboration in advancing mutual interests.

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12 April 2024 12:41 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation have intensified work on the development of different segments of the North-South international transport corridor (ITC), First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Industrial Policy, Innovations, and Trade of St. Petersburg Alexander Sitov told media.

"Several areas of collaboration with Azerbaijan have been established in order to activate the ITC North-South. This corridor starts in the Baltic Sea near St. Petersburg, and its branches end in Iran and can reach India. A portion of the route travels through Azerbaijan on land (roads and railroads) and along the Caspian Sea, and we agreed to develop cooperation zones," Sitov noted.

According to him, the Russian Federation is currently modernizing its Caspian port of Olya (year-round navigation) to increase cargo turnover along the North-South ITC.

Furthermore, it is planned to create a new cargo area of 250 hectares in the port of Olya: the 1st stage assumes the construction of six berths by 2027 for cargo turnover of up to 6 million tons; the 2nd stage is capacity development of up to 12 million tons; and the 3rd stage is capacity development of up to 50 million tons.

Also, the construction of highways, transport interchanges, bridges, and engineering structures will be intensified under the North-South project.

"I think Azerbaijan will be interested in new initiatives of the Russian Federation on the North-South ITC," Sitov emphasized.

To note, the decision to create this ITC was made in St. Petersburg in 2000, and the agreement on this corridor has been ratified by 14 countries in the world.

The railroad segment of the ITC is projected to establish the section Rasht (Iran)-Astara (the border between Iran and Azerbaijan), for which VTB Bank (Russia) loaned Iran more than 1 billion euros.

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12 April 2024 10:23 (UTC+04:00)

The Vision Art Platform will host the personal exhibition of Aida Mahmudova titled "A Dream Unfolds", Azernews reports.

The exhibition, which will debut on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 5.00 p.m., can be visited at Vision Art Platform at Akaretler No: 35 until July 22, 2024.

A Different Way to See the World

Art has played an important role in every aspect of life since the dawn of humanity, and throughout history, artists have used different art forms to express their feelings, thoughts and experiences. Art's expressive ability has had far-reaching influence on individuals across history, society, and culture. Whereas art reflects the lifestyle, beliefs, and cultural values of a period, it also shows the intellectual and aesthetic understanding of the relevant age. This is a practice that brings people together socially, allows us to share our feelings, and creates a common language. Nevertheless, art sometimes is against the existing aesthetic consensus and reveals a rebellious and autonomous new language of expression. Each artist reminds us of a different way of seeing the world. I would like to speak about Aida Mahmudova. She studied art at Central Saint Martins and has held solo exhibitions and participated in group exhibitions internationally in different cities including Belgium, London, Rome, New York, Moscow, Tbilisi, and Baku. Mahmudova also took part in the 55th and 56th Venice Biennale.

Aida Mahmudova dives into the essence of materials in her search for artistic expression and tries to decipher the language of the world through the figurative, semi-abstract and abstract forms. At the same time, she approaches her work with deep curiosity and a burning desire to solve the mysteries within, like a philosopher pondering the nature of existence.

If we think the material world is like a massive book that we only need to read and observe to gain knowledge, Aida Mahmudova wholeheartedly embraces and implements this idea. Her works are like the chapters in this remarkable book, and each stroke and layer reveal a new side of her exploration.

Aida Mahmudova's works reflect poetry that attempts to capture the beauty of nature. The artist's works evoke a serene contemplation like Wordsworth's memories of calm emotions, and these works invite viewers to lose themselves in the depths of her compositions.

The artist is never satisfied with mere representation, so her searches for realities are beyond the surface. Mahmudova is interested in the expressive potential of materials and tools. Through her experiments with heat, light, color, and matter, she creates a multi-layered narrative that transcends the boundaries of a single work and invites viewers to engage with her work on a visceral level.

From this perspective, Mahmudova's works reflect avant-garde thought by offering innovative materials and content. The artist uses many materials to create deep expressions. She manipulates them in a way that pushes the boundaries of form and function, and this blurs the distinction between art and life.

Continuously investigating materials and their potential, the artist produces visually striking, emotionally and intellectually stimulating paintings. Mahmudova's works make us to re-evaluate our prejudices about art and call us to re-perceive the world through the lens of a true visionary.

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12 April 2024 11:11 (UTC+04:00)

The family members of intelligence officers, who were martyred in "Khojavend operation" in 1997, have started to visit the Khojavend district.

On the 27th anniversary of "Khojavend operation" in 1997, they went to the area in Khojavend district, where the scouts rose to the peak of martyrdom, laid flowers on the place where the group was martyred, and commemorated their dear memories.

Later, it is planned to visit the families of the martyrs to Shusha and Khankendi.

It should be noted that in April 1997, two intelligence groups of the Azerbaijan Army infiltrated behind the enemy in the direction of Khojavand, which was occupied at that time, and performed their combat mission with honor. The first group returned without a loss. Another group of 8 people was surrounded on the way back. Azerbaijani scouts categorically rejected the enemy's demands to surrender, and a heavy battle began. Few groups have shown real heroism and strong resistance.

The other 7 people, who thought that Sergeant Agil Ahmadov, a member of the group, who was wounded during the heavy fighting, had already been killed, saw that their ammunition had run out and gathered in a group to avoid falling into the hands of the enemy.

They are the commander of the group, lieutenant Elkhan Agayev, members of the group - lieutenant Vugar Yarahmadov, sergeants - Anar Rzayev, Dinar Mustafayev, Agshin Hasanov, Nizami Alekbarov, Fariz Javadov.

The remains of the soldiers who died during the operation were recovered after 6 months as a result of the intense activity of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev. They were buried in the Second Alley of Honor in Baku, and each was posthumously awarded the "Flag of Azerbaijan" order. Ulu Ondar rescued the unconscious group member, sergeant Agil Ahmadov, whom Armenia had sentenced to death, from two years of captivity.

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12 April 2024 13:49 (UTC+04:00)

The expansion of the "Azconnexus" network continues in the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan.

According to Azernews, Dunay Badirkhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Space Agency ("Azerkosmos") under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, told media.

Within the framework of the "Azconnexus" platform presented by "Azerkosmos", it is possible to provide internet and data services anywhere in the coverage area of our satellite, especially in areas with complex terrain. As you know, we use it in the Garabagh region. According to the request, new systems are being installed," he said.

D. Badirkhanov added that more than 100 projects have been implemented by digitizing satellite services and using satellite solutions through the Geographical Information Systems Center, which started operating last year.

"30 of them were implemented only in territories freed from occupation. These were mainly related to agriculture, ecology and environmental issues. I would like to emphasize that our participation in these projects continues."

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12 April 2024 14:11 (UTC+04:00)

Representatives of the state committee visited several military units and met with servicemen, Azernews reports, citing the Defence Ministry of Azerbaijan.

According to the joint action plan signed between the Defense Ministry and the State Committee on Religious Associations, events are being held for the purpose of promoting the national and moral values and educating military personnel.

During the events, the blessed memory of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev and Shehids (Martyrs), who sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, was honored with observing a minute of silence.

The events discussed the role of Islam in the creation and formation of healthy mind, the education of the youth in the spirit of military patriotism and the measures taken by the state in the protection of national and moral values. Questions of military personnel were answered.

The importance of such events carried out in the field of education of military personnel in the Azerbaijan Army was emphasized.

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12 April 2024 17:50 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

On April 12, the opening ceremony of the III International Experience-Based Learning Conference was held in Baku, Azernews reports, citing Azertag.

The Deputy Minister of Science and Education Kanan Karimzade, who spoke at the event, in his presentation, in accordance with the "Socio-economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2022-2026", discussed the tasks and goals facing education, as well as the Ministry of Science and Education in recent times.

The deputy minister talked about the work being done. He noted that improving the position of our country in international evaluations and achieving the representation of our 3 universities in the top 800 are among the main educational goals.

In his speech, the director general of the European Azerbaijan School, Francesco Bancini, said that the purpose of the conference is to learn the most modern approaches from educational leaders, discuss the field of education, and explore new ideas and strategies. The Director General also emphasized that representatives from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Turkey and other countries participated in the conference and pointed out that knowledge and experience will be exchanged at the international and local level within the framework of the event.

It should be noted that more than 60 seminars will be organized in 3 days at the conference held with the participation of educational specialists, as well as directors and teachers.

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12 April 2024 20:21 (UTC+04:00)

Under the instruction of the Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, events aimed at enlightening servicemen about national-spiritual values and patriotism continue, Azernews reports, citing the Defence Ministry of Azerbaijan.

As part of the events, representatives of the Ministry of Defense, Baku State University, the Ideological and Cultural Center of the Ganja Garrison visited military units and held meetings with personnel.

During the meetings with the servicemen, discussions on the statehood and military history of Azerbaijan, as well as on other topics were held, and servicemens questions were answered.

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ADEN, Yemen, April 12 (Xinhua) -- At least three pro-government Yemeni soldiers were killed in a drone attack by the Houthi group in Yemen's southern province of Lahj on Friday, a military official told Xinhua.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the Houthis targeted a military patrol with a drone on the Karsh front in the province, an area that has witnessed sporadic fighting between the two warring sides.

On Tuesday, Yemen's Prime Minister Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak accused the Houthis of killing over 300 Yemeni people in the past three months.

"We are sustaining daily losses in this battle. Mere days ago, more than 13 soldiers died in the Karsh front of Lahj province," Bin Mubarak said, stressing that Yemen remains in a state of war with the Houthis.

Yemen has stayed in a precarious calm since the expiration of a UN-brokered truce on Oct. 2, 2022, after the Yemeni government and the Houthi group had disagreed on an extension.

As the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the years-long conflict continue to fade, concerns mount over the potential for a full-scale resumption of hostilities and further deterioration of the already dire humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

Yemen has been embroiled in a protracted civil conflict since 2014, when the Houthis seized control of the capital, Sanaa. In 2015, a Saudi-led military coalition intervened in an attempt to restore the government.

Despite diplomatic endeavors over the years, neither side has demonstrated the will to revive negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict, which, according to UN estimates, has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and pushed millions more to the brink of famine. 
12 April 2024 11:33 (UTC+04:00)

The value of Uzbekneftegaz's (Uzbekistan's state oil and gas company) exports amounted to $158.5 million from January through March 2024.

The data from Uzbekneftegaz shows that this indicator exceeded the projected number by 123 percent, or $29.7 million, during this period.

The company's estimated export volume was $128.8 million.

Meanwhile, the volume of Uzbekistan's exports of goods and services (besides non-monetary gold) amounted to $2.31 billion from January through February 2024, which is more than 14.9 percent year-on-year.

The data from Uzbekistan's Statistics Agency shows that the main export partners of goods and services in the foreign trade turnover were Russia, China, Turkiye, Kazakhstan, France, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan from January through 2024. Their share in the total volume of exports reached 42.1 percent.

In the structure of exports, 79.9 percent are goods, of which industrial goods account for 16.8 percent, food products and live animals for 6.5 percent, and chemicals and similar products for 6.6 percent. Other types of goods amount to 36.4 percent.

Furthermore, the total volume of Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover amounted to over $9.89 billion from January through February this year. Imports reached $6.28 billion (an increase of 8.7 percent).

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12 April 2024 09:00 (UTC+04:00)

British Airways has announced it will start using two new next-generation weather apps to help it plan flights optimally. The new technology will replace the airline's existing manually-produced weather report system, delivering instant weather data for better planning decisions.

BA to roll out new weather apps

The British carrier will implement two new weather apps into its operations ahead of the summer travel season, enhancing the quality of weather data for both pilots and flight planning teams. The first app - Guidor by French firm SkyConseil - will give pilots access to real-time weather data from The Weather Company, delivering accurate and instant weather data.

As for the second app, set to roll out in the future, BA's Integrated Operations Control Center will have access to WSI Fusion, which will coordinate with the first app pilots are using - this app draws on a wide range of data, including radar, satellite and meteorological sources, to better predict weather patterns on the flight path.

Rene de Groot, Chief Operating Officer at British Airways, said,

"Its exciting that well be the first UK airline to combine the technology of both apps, which will allow us to make even better operational decisions in the moment using real-time data. These applications represent a step-change in the quality of weather information we receive, and, in the future, will enable pilots to collaborate in real-time during a flight with operational colleagues on the ground, allowing faster decision-making for a variety of issues like diversion planning and recovery."

The airline says the apps were specifically curated to "meet the exact needs" of its network, which now comprises destinations in over 75 countries. British Airways is investing heavily in modernizing its operations, having announced a 7 billion ($8.8 billion) investment last month - one of its recent upgrades involved replacing a paper-based engineer log system with a new Electronic Aircraft Maintenance (eLog) system.

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12 April 2024 18:16 (UTC+04:00)

Pierre Levy, the ambassador of France to Moscow, was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia (MFA) due to the statements made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of this country, Stephane Sejourne, about Russia, Azernews reports, with reference to the Russian Foreign Mnistry.

It was stated that the recent statements of the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, S. Sejourne, regarding the French side's lack of interest in negotiations with Russian officials, as well as such statements to the French ambassador, which have nothing to do with reality, are unacceptable due to the claims that the Russian side's statements contain false information:

"We consider these statements of the French Foreign Minister as a conscious and deliberate action of the French side aimed at disrupting the possibility of any dialogue between the two countries."

It should be noted that S. Sejourne, who previously spoke on the "France 24" TV channel, said that it is not appropriate for France to negotiate with Russian representatives now, and he claims that the communiques issued by the Russian side based on the results contain unreliable information.

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12 April 2024 18:44 (UTC+04:00)

The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs called on its compatriots to refrain from visiting Iran, Israel and Lebanon due to the threat of escalation of the situation in the Middle East.

According to Azernews, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has posted information about this on the "X" social network.

#TravelAdvice | In view of the risks of a military escalation in the #MiddleEast, Foreign Minister @steph_sejourne endorsed the following measures in a crisis meeting  pic.twitter.com/0F6KjXI8mE  France Diplomacy  (@francediplo_EN) April 12, 2024

"Due to the risk of military escalation in the Middle East, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises French citizens to avoid trips to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and Palestine in the coming days," the information said.

In addition, there is a ban on business trips by French officials to these countries.

The organization also said that the families of French diplomats in Iran will leave the country.

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YAOUNDE, April 11 (Xinhua) -- At least six people, including a soldier and five separatists, have lost their lives following a Cameroonian military raid on a locality in the war-torn Anglophone region of Northwest Cameroon, local and security sources said Thursday.

The raid occurred on Wednesday night in Bamfem, situated in the Bui division of the region. Government forces launched a coordinated assault on a separatist hideout, leading to clashes with separatist fighters, said a military official in the region.

"During the clashes, our forces killed five terrorist separatists, but unfortunately, we also lost one soldier. Several of the separatists managed to flee with gunshot wounds," said the official, who requested anonymity when speaking to Xinhua.

Separatist leaders, however, claimed on social media that all the individuals killed were civilians, asserting that none of their fighters were harmed during the clashes.

Cameroonian forces are escalating operations in the two Anglophone regions of Northwest and Southwest as the Central African country prepares for presidential elections next year. Since 2017, separatists in these regions have been in conflict with government forces, aiming to establish an independent nation. 
Oregon Coast Photog Snags Incredible Images of Comet Above Otter Rock

Published 4/08/24 at 4:55 a.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Newport, Oregon)  Last year, Comet 12P / Pons-Brooks caused a stir in the skies when its icy interior was heated by solar radiation, creating a kind of volcanic eruption caused by the chemicals inside the ice. Not only was that discovery remarkable, but the weird shapes it acquired while erupting made for downright outrageous nicknames like the Millennium Falcon Comet or the Devil Comet. (Photo Deep Sky Workflows / Jeremy Likness)

Now, it appears to be bursting again on its 71-year swing through our solar system, and one astrophotographer on the central Oregon coast was adept enough to catch some astounding photographs of the interstellar visitor. Resident Jeremy Likness of Deep Sky Workflows planned ahead for weeks and then caught these images on March 31 in Otter Rock, not far from Newport. [See Bizarre 'Millennium Falcon' / Comet Pons-Brooks in Oregon Coast, Washington Coast Skies]

You could not see it with the naked eye, Likness told Oregon Coast Beach Connection, and that has only rarely happened around the world since it started getting closer. You need some decent optics to spot it, so it's not even like Comet Neowise was a few years back.

You can make it out as a fuzzy patch with a f/2 or better 50mm+ camera or binoculars. I was in Otter Rock (town) facing Gull Rock in the Pacific, Likness said.

What are your chances of spotting it?

See the absolute money shot of the bunch where Likness caught the ISS whizzing above Newport and the comet near the Andromeda Galaxy.

Luckily, lately it's been near the horizon of Oregon's sands as well as the Washington coast. You're still going to need optics for this one, however. The human eye alone won't get you there. It's worth that effort, however.

EarthSky.com said Comet Pons-Brooks will be near Jupiter from April 12 through 14, and it's still getting closer to the sun, which could heat it up even more and create more outstanding sights. By late in April, it's going to move out of view of the Northern Hemisphere.

Ironically, it will be at its dimmest when it's at its closest to Earth in early June. By then it will be too far from the sun to pick up much heat and cause the ice and gasses to glow.

How Were the Comet Pons-Brooks Photos Made?



Photo Deep Sky Workflows / Jeremy Likness

The photos were made via some very complex shooting and then processing in the computer, essentially creating a composite. Those starfields and the comet were stacked.

Comets require a lot of processing because they move at a different rate than stars do, so you're basically chasing two moving targets for the final shot, he said.

He's also using a telescope and some extremely intricate astrophotography gear to create these.

I usually use a wide angle, long exposure to get a bunch of light and spot where the comet is, then center it, increase the magnification, and repeat until I'm close to it, Likness said. If I'm using my telescope, I have an automated process I run from my laptop to find it for me. 

Likness delved deeply into how he does all this:

I brought my gear to a friend's house who has an ocean-facing deck. To ensure my equipment was stable, I used a heavy tripod (35 pounds) with a telescope that weighs 21 pounds. The first step I had to do quickly was to align everything so I could use a motor to move the telescope at the same speed as the stars due to the Earth's rotation so I could take longer exposures. The second step was to get it focused. It took me about one hour to get set up, then I had another hour of shooting before the comet was too low on the horizon. It was a few weeks of planning, two hours in the field, and then another 4 - 5 hours of finding the cleanest shots and processing them for the final result.

The video also shows a unique set of sides to all this, including a weird pink patch that Likness called an artifact. Though it looks like something of The Expanse, it's just a kind of software glitch  but a curious one at that.

The pink blob was from an issue with the processing software, Likness said. The raw photographs are in a format that is too low intensity to see any details with the human eye. It has to be "stretched" or amplified to become visible. To make the video I had hundreds of images, so I ran an automated process to do the stretching. Some of the images get defects - the wind may move the mount while it's exposing creating dancing lights, a bird may fly in front of the lens, a spec of dust can move into the field of view - when this happens, the algorithms that amplify the image get confused and overamplify the defects to create abstract looking blobs.

Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours







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Comet Chasers, a team of researchers led by Helen Usher of Cardiff / The Open Universities caught the money shot during the July burst.

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Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast.

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Now that Kamala Harris has been coronated the Democratic Socialist designee for nomination as their candidate for President of these United States, after that political party's contrived primary process "democratically" elected Joseph R. Biden: What are your feelings about this party's progressive posture within their self-styled exercise of "Saving Democracy for America," and how truly critical the outcome of this presidential election will be?

8.7% I am ecstatic that this "Democracy's" First partially Black, First partially Indian, First female Co-Parent, and this nation's primary necessity is to her elect our First woman president.26.09% I really do not care about all these "Firsts." I will continue to pray, and work for this Representative Republic to elect someone competent, and brilliantly patriotic to be our next president.65.22% I will never vote for any politician that "first" does not have the core values to understand how dire this Constitutional Republic's situation has become.
A woman operating a dental practice in Schaumburg, Ill., is being investigated by state and suburban police following multiple patient complaints, according to an April 11 report from CBS News.

Monica Davis, operator of The Veneer Experts, had been operating another location in Las Vegas when she was arrested for illegally practicing without a Nevada dental license.

Ms. Davis is not registered as a dentist in Illinois, which could result in Ms. Davis being arrested in Illinois; she is similarly not registered in Nevada.

Those who own the building in Schaumburg asked The Veneer Experts to leave after a receptionist at the building received multiple calls from customers complaining about the business, the report said.

Ms. Davis has a court date in Las Vegas in May.
KUALA LUMPUR, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Economists have foreseen the Malaysian economy to pick up in quarters ahead after growth disappoints in 2023.

UOB Economics and Markets Research said in a note that although Malaysia's first growth path could still be bumpy, growth in the second half is expected to see a meaningful pick-up as global monetary conditions are expected to ease and the global economy endeavors a soft landing.

"Thus, we maintain our 2024 gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection at 4.6 percent," said the research house. The Malaysian government has forecast a GDP growth of 4 percent to 5 percent this year.

Meanwhile, RHB Research said in a report that it also keeps Malaysia's GDP forecast at 4.6 percent year on year in 2024 after a growth of 3.7 percent in 2023.

It said recent data indicates that domestic confidence has shown signs of improvement.

Three key proxies, specifically higher manufacturing purchasing manager index, increased imports of capital and intermediate goods, and rising business confidence, suggest that manufacturers and businesses optimism is up, said RHB.

MIDF Research also said in a note that moving into 2024, the Malaysian economy is run by two engines, resilient domestic demand and external trade recovery.

According to the research house, the stabilization of monetary policy in major countries, better recovery in China, and supportive global commodity prices will boost Malaysia's external front in 2024.

Meanwhile, Malaysia's agriculture and mining sectors are projected to grow by 1.5 percent and 3.5 percent respectively for this year.

Manufacturing sector growth is also expected to register a faster pace of 4 percent for 2024, among others supported by an upcycle of electricals and electronics products and a rebound in primary exports. 
Gaithersburg, Md.-based Adventist HealthCare has received $10 million from the state and is looking for $150 million more over time for the development of its new hospital in Prince George's County, Md., the Washington Business Journal reported April 11.

The health system's existing Fort Washington (Md.) Medical Center will be replaced by the new hospital, which will cost around $250 million.

"Adventist HealthCare is committed to the project of a new hospital, but we can't do it alone," Eunmee Shim, president of FWMC, told the publication. "I don't think there's any other way to describe it than to say, funding is a big part of what we need."

Adventist is promoting its financial assistance need for the hospital project on both a county and state level and has partnered with Angela Alsobrooks, county executive for Prince George County, to request state funding.

The hospital project won't need the entire $150 million to kick off construction, but once the project begins, it will be completed in around four to five years. Adventist also plans to help fund the project through operations and fundraising, the publication reported.

The health system shared plans to replace the hospital in November 2020 and signed a deal to buy land for the new hospital in 2022.

While Ms. Shim said it's too early to discuss hospital features like size or bed count, she told the publication that maternal-child health services are a must-have at the new facility.

Becker's has reached out to Adventist HealthCare and the state for comment and will update this story as more information becomes available.
Hawaii has unveiled the first high school-based clinic in the country, Hawaii News Now reported April 11.

OB-GYNs from Hawaii Pacific Health and medical school physicians from the University of Hawaii will run the clinic along with more than 500 students.

The 1,900-square-foot clinic, called Academic Health Center, has four exam rooms and one treatment room. It will give students an opportunity to shadow physicians and gain experience ranging from administrative to clinical roles.
Massena (N.Y.) Hospital, a 25-bed facility that is part of St. Lawrence Heath, has converted into a critical access hospital.

To obtain critical access status, hospitals must have no more than 25 beds and an average duration of stay under 96 hours. While cutting services to meet these requirements can be a tough decision, the designation can provide these hospitals with a path toward financial stability.

Massena Hospital leaders will look to replicate the success of St. Lawrence Health's Gouverneur Hospital, which has been recognized as a top critical access hospital after receiving the designation in June 2013.

"This is a federal designation providing rural hospitals cost-based reimbursement for Medicare services. The status is anticipated to provide MH considerable improvements towards our financial solvency and has long been in the works," Brent Bishop, associate COO at Massena Hospital, said in a news release shared with Becker's. "With this change to a CAH, there will be no changes to the services we currently provide or to the number of patient beds we have. This has been a seamless transition for our community and patients."
Katherine Vergos, RN, was selected president of Dignity Health's Las Vegas market and president and CEO of the Siena Hospital Campus in Henderson, Nev.

Ms. Vergos will begin her new position May 12, replacing retiring industry veteran Jon Van Boening, according to a news release shared with Becker's.

She will join Dignity Health after serving as president of the Fond du Lac market and president of St. Agnes Hospital at SSM Health in Fond du Lac, Wis.

Ms. Vergos will helm the 326-bed Siena Campus and also be responsible for Southern Nevada operations and joint ventures, including four Dignity Health neighborhood hospitals, 15 Dignity Health physical therapy clinics, six community wellness centers, and other services, according to the release.

San Francisco-based Dignity Health is part of Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health.






When the Lollapalooza music festival brings more than 400,000 people to Chicago each summer, Rush University System for Health works with the city to make sure it has enough hospital beds.

That is just one way the Chicago-based health system's data platform has evolved since it was developed in 2020 to help the city respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This has been a project that has scaled from its original goals," Rush Chief Innovation Officer Anil Saldanha told Becker's. "Our vision is this data will morph into a larger hub, like an analytical platform for the city for current and future epidemics and pandemics, basically."

The database has morphed from tracking COVID cases and ventilator availability to now include wastewater surveillance, vaccine uptake, migrant population management, and the recent measles outbreak. The hub gives the city of Chicago a "real-time view of what's happening across the health systems," Mr. Saldanha said.

More than many health system chief innovation officers, Mr. Saldanha's job is deeply focused on public health. He reports to a senior vice president of community health.

For instance, the health system is concentrating on reducing the city's "death gap"  the roughly 15-year life expectancy difference between residents who neighbor Rush on Chicago's West Side and those residing near the city's Magnificent Mile  with the help of data and population health management. That includes remote monitoring of hypertension and other chronic disease patients.

Rush screens people for social determinants of health  whether in the hospital, an outpatient setting, or a community event  and uploads the data to their EHRs. Mr. Saldanha has been pushing to make those screenings tablet-based for ease of use.

"This is an intersectionality of public health and delivery systems," Mr. Saldanha said.
The National Labor Relations Board has issued a formal complaint against St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Mass., indicting it on multiple charges related to nurse management and staffing concerns.

Becker's obtained a copy of the complaint, which consolidated six cases filed by union-represented St. Vincent nurses between 2022 and 2024. Government attorneys have taken over the case, which is set to begin trial before an administrative law judge June 18.

The NLRB indicted St. Vincent Hospital for directives by its owner, Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare, that allegedly prevented union staff from visiting the hospital to meet with nurses and prevented nurses from communicating concerns with the hospital's chief nursing officer or other nursing administrators. Instead, nurse complaints have been directed to a human resources executive in Dallas, who has been responding with a "rubber stamp denial," according to an April 11 news release from the Massachusetts Nurses Association. The nurses say they have not met with nursing administration since June 2022.

In addition, the complaint indicts the hospital for allegedly refusing to provide information on staffing issues to aid nurses' efforts to address them, and for failing to negotiate with nurses over an incentive bonus program designed to address the problem.

The nurses allege the staffing crisis "has been engineered by the hospital to increase profits at the expense of patient safety." The hospital declined Becker's request for comment.

Nurses represented by the MNA have filed more than 600 complaints with state and federal agencies since July 2023. During a February on-site review, The Joint Commission found the hospital to be noncompliant with certain CMS standards. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health also conducted an on-site review, and, according to Saint Vincent Hospital, it ruled that five of six nurse claims it investigated were "unsubstantiated"; however, the department later told the Worcester Telegram & Gazette that the investigation is ongoing and no conclusions can be drawn yet.

Most recently, eight nurses filed a lawsuit against St. Vincent Hospital and Tenet, alleging they were wrongfully terminated for raising concerns about staffing shortages and care quality. The lawsuit alleges that there have been nursing staffing shortages for more than a year and that sometimes, one nurse will assume a 20-patient assignment. It also recounts incidents of patients left unattended in emergency department hallways and left to sit in their own urine and feces for extended periods.

"We are grateful for [the NLRB's] charge against our administration and we look forward to the opportunity to present our case in court in our ongoing effort to hold our administration accountable for their abhorrent treatment of our members, and more importantly, for the impact these and other practices are having on the safety and dignity of our patients," said Marlena Pellegrino, RN, co-chair of the MNA local bargaining unit for the nurses.

"At the core of this complaint is Tenet's refusal to meet with us or work with us in any meaningful forum to listen to our concerns and to respond to situations that are harming the very people we are all here to serve."
A physician was fired, and NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull was placed in immediate jeopardy, following two patient deaths in the hospital's maternity ward, The New York Times reported April 11.

In the first case, a woman arrived at the New York City-based hospital Oct. 29 and was in labor for 24 hours. She attempted a vaginal delivery, but the fetal heart rate dropped multiple times. The nurses and midwives caring for her did not notify the attending physician until more than 12 hours later and on Oct. 31, the physician recommended an emergency C-section. During the procedure, the woman's uterus ruptured, injuring her bladder and the baby did not live, though the cause of death was not stated, according to the report.

Two weeks later, a 30-year-old mother was given too long of an incision during an emergency C-section. The attending physician, Ronald Daniel, MD, filed a report saying there had been "no intraoperative surgical complications." However, the mother began to bleed internally and later died.

Dr. Daniel, 72, was fired Dec. 5 after the mother's death, his employer told the Times.

State health officials issued the hospital an immediate jeopardy warning, which was lifted shortly after when the hospital submitted its corrective plan. A Woodhull spokesperson told Becker's, "The NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull team has revamped and enhanced its protocols across its obstetrics and anesthesiology departments, and hired two new clinical leaders in these areas. The hospital is also strengthening the role of nurses in the management of maternal health patients. Across our health system we are using innovative interventions that we believe will address the disparities and race-based health care gaps that historically and disproportionally affect the diverse population of patients we proudly serve."

It also recently hired a new chief medical officer, a new vice chief of anesthesia and a new head of obstetrics.
The Biden administration is adding $7.4 billion in debt cancellation for a total of $153 billion, with public service workers  including those in healthcare  again eligible in the latest round of relief.

The Biden-Harris administration announced the additional $7.4 billion in relief for 277,000 more Americans April 12. The investment comes on the heels of an additional $5.8 billion in student loan debt relief for 77,700 public service workers, including those in healthcare, announced in March.

The latest round of debt cancellation is for borrowers enrolled in several federal programs: the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan, income-driven repayment plans, and those receiving Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said discharges worth $3.6 billion in relief will go to 207,000 borrowers under the SAVE plan, Bloomberg reports.

The Public Service Loan Forgiveness program is reserved for governmental employers and nonprofit organizations, and public health is a qualifying public service with eligibility for physicians, nurse practitioners and nurses in clinical settings. Forty-six hundred public servants will see loans canceled in this latest round, according to Bloomberg.

Combined, the Biden-Harris administration has moved to cancel debt for nearly 900,000 public service workers. Days before the latest round, the Biden administration previewed a plan to extend debt relief to 30 million Americans by automatically canceling debt for borrowers otherwise eligible for relief through the SAVE plan, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or other forgiveness opportunities who have not successfully applied for assistance.
Orthopedic surgeons remain the highest-paid physician specialists in 2024, with an average annual salary of $558,000, according to Medscape's 2024 "Physician Compensation Report," published April 12.

While orthopedists remain the highest-paid specialists, their annual salary is down 3% from 2023, according to the report. Orthopedic surgeons have jockeyed with plastic surgeons for the top spot over the last five years.

This year, they outearned plastic surgeons by $22,000. While orthopedists remain the highest paid, only 44% feel content with their compensation.
East Providence, R.I.-based University Orthopedics formed an endowment in memory of spine surgeon Mark Palumbo, MD.

The Mark Palumbo, MD Endowment for Spinal Surgery Research and Education came from a $1.5 million commitment from anonymous donors, according to an April 11 news release shared with Becker's. Dr. Palumbo died in 2019 at the age of 57 and practiced with University Orthopedics for more than 25 years.

"These funds will help identify new models of care delivery, building on the significant basic science advances championed by Dr. Palumbo, and ultimately influencing orthopedic innovations at the regional, national, and international level that improve the quality and outcomes of patient care," Alan Daniels, MD, chief of The Center for Spine Health at University Orthopedics, said in the release. "It is incredibly rewarding to know that the endeavors of this caring, thoughtful man and skilled surgeon will continue to thrive thanks to the creation of this endowment."
Chinese and German students visit Youdao, a Beijing-based intelligent education subsidiary of China's internet giant NetEase, in Beijing, capital of China, April 9, 2024.(Xinhua/Zhao Xu)

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- "Hi, what would you like to talk about today?" an artificial intelligence (AI) English tutor named Echo asked Svenja Butzlaff, a German 10th-grade student who was visiting Youdao, a Beijing-based intelligent education subsidiary of China's internet giant NetEase.

Via a mobile app, she conversed with the avatar about the history of China's tea culture. "The development of AI technology in China is quite impressive," Butzlaff said.

Butzlaff is among over 20 students from Germany's CJD Elze who have visited China under the invitation of the Affiliated High School of Peking University (PKUHS), based on an exchange mechanism between the two schools.

Over a two-week stay in China, the Germans had classes together with their counterparts from Beijing. They visited tech companies as well as landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace, fully immersed in the Chinese way of life and experiencing its culture.

"Before this trip to Beijing, I thought I would be surrounded by skyscrapers. I didn't expect to see hutong alleys or meet such an ancient city rich in historical spirit," a 14-year-old German student named Laura said.

She added that she was particularly fascinated by the delicate patterns on the buildings in the Forbidden City.

Education plays another critical role in connecting these adolescents. At PKUHS, German students took courses in art, sports, and crafts.

"German students are full of curiosity. We shared our learning experiences, hobbies, and favorite foods with one another. I found it rather interesting," said Wu Churan, a student from PKUHS.

Wu also recalled her visit to Germany under the same exchange program. "It benefited me a lot for it not only expanded my horizons but helped me make many good friends and gain a deeper understanding of cultural diversity," Wu added.

As for German student Adriano, who aspires to be a chef, Chinese cuisine is especially charismatic.

"I had dumplings for the very first time at my Beijing companion's. It was so delicious. Besides, his family took me to a Sichuan-style hot pot, which was equally amazing," Adriano said. The 14-year-old also joked that he seemed to have "gained weight" during his stay in China.

It is worth mentioning that he didn't forget to buy some Chinese chili sauce and seasonings before returning to Germany. "I'll try making Chinese dishes for my family," he said.

Upon wrapping up the trip, Laura jotted down her wish. "I hope to pursue my bachelor's degree in China in the future, make more Chinese friends, and have an extensive understanding of Chinese culture."

"Sino-German teen friendships will only grow fonder with more such face-to-face exchanges," said Carsten, the teacher who led the German student delegation. "We all expect more activities of this kind to come in the future." 
A Craigavon cafe is due to pay 71,000 in rates in the next year.

Number Seven Rushmere shared the details as staff sought to explain to customers why the business has to raise prices.

The cafe, which is located in Rushmere Shopping Centre, shared a photograph of its bill showing the payment plan for the next year, which totals over 7,000 a month until February 2025.

This means its total rates bill for the next year will be 71,041.

Writing on social media, the cafe said: We felt we had to share this so our customers can understand why at times we have to raise and charge the prices we do.

"This is this years rates bill for our 120-capacity cafe in Rushmere Shopping Centre. Bare in mind we pay for our rent, bins, water and other services separately, what does 71k per year cover?

Customers shared their support for the business and outrage at the bill.

One said: Absolutely disgusting...we need to stop just accepting increases without explanation. They think they can charge whatever they like, while another said: No wonder so many businesses are closing.

"How are you supposed to make a profit after utilities, wages, insurance, stock? said another, while a third said it was the sad reality business owners must face in the current climate.

Earlier this year, all councils announced rate rises.

In Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon they are going up by 5.17%.

It was also announced there would be a 9.78% hike in domestic rates by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, while Belfast City Council announced a new rate will increase from last year by 5.44% for homeowners and businesses.

Number Seven Rushmere also made headlines in 2022 after sharing its electricity bill from the month of August, showing the price for electricity for the business was 9,362.62.
Dear Mary: I regret being so fussy when I was younger, I feel Ive missed out on being a good wife and mother
Both exchanges have warehouses all over the world (Alamy)

The UK and the US have announced that new aluminium, copper and nickel produced by Russia will no longer be traded at the worlds two largest metal exchanges.
A former Belfast bank branch looks set to be transformed into a gym.

Energized Fitness, which is a personal fitness gym, is planning to open at the former Ulster Bank in Dunmurry, outside Belfast.

The business has been based close by at the Kingsway Shopping Centre, but the current lease is set to end soon.

The nature of the building required for use as a gym is best suited to a single level floor space with an area between 100 sq m to 400 sq m, depending on the client base size of the gym business, a supporting statement alongside a fresh planning has said.

Speaking about the plans, it says the gym offering in Belfast city centre is largely served by the much bigger national brands and franchises.

This reflects the large catchment area presented by a city centre, supporting the view that such business in the centre need to be larger in scale to make them economically viable given the higher costs of operating a business in that location.

Energized Fitness is a much smaller established business and therefore not suited or financially able to cope with the large city centre establishments. Arguably, Belfast city centre is potentially oversubscribed with large gyms at present.

 the proposed premises being only 400m from the existing premises means that its local clientele should be easily maintained as the business would not be relocating too far. This is critical for small local business continuity.
Denis Mulcahy (right) with children he brought over from Northern Ireland to the United States as part of Project Children

Project Childrens Denis Mulcahy will be in Belfast later this month to watch Brassneck Theatre Companys show of the same name in the Lyric Theatre.

Playwright Fionnuala Kennedy has documented the projects importance through interviews with those who participated, from host families to volunteers in Ireland and the United States. The initial run of Project Children, directed by Tony Devlin, premiered in August 2023 as part of Feile an Phobail 35.
Mezbaan, 1 Sandown Road, Belfast. www.mezbaanbelfast.com

If ever you want to see how closely aligned food is to social cohesion then look no further than Mezbaan, the Pakistani restaurant in Ballyhackamore. Housed on the ground floor of the Ballyhackamore Working Men's Institute and Club, Mezbaan, a spotlessly shiny diner with a menu by stalwart chef Zahid Salim, is much loved by locals. Because this is no ordinary curry house.

One night last week three of us enjoyed a dinner with unexpected insights. We had just been served our starters when the restaurant began filling up. The end of the days Ramadan was upon us and an Imam discreetly took up position behind a screen in a corner of the dining room to chant the dua, a prayer signalling to the faithful that it was time for iftar, the fast-breaking evening meal, time to eat and drink again after a long days abstinence. I was thrilled to witness this and a bit shame faced for having jumped the gun.
Blue moon rising at summit as Ballymena and Linfield lead way but its misery at bottom
MINSK, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Belarus celebrated the International Day of Human Space Flight on Friday, days after the country's first cosmonaut completed a journey into space.

Marina Vasilevskaya, the first cosmonaut in the history of sovereign Belarus, flew to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the prime crew of Visiting Expedition 21 on March 23, 2024, according to BelTA news agency.

The flight lasted 14 days, of which 12 days were on the Russian segment of the ISS.

Vasilyevskaya was awarded the title of "Hero of Belarus" by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko on Thursday.

On April 12, 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin carried out the first human space flight. The UN General Assembly passed a resolution in 2011, declaring April 12 as the International Day of Human Space Flight "to celebrate each year at the international level the beginning of the space era for mankind." 
Claims that another group carried out atrocity are a lie, coroner concludesAttack was mounted because the deceased men were Protestants and for no other reasonFindings delivered after inquest spanning eight yearsSurvivor Alan Black, now in wheelchair, among those present UUP leader Doug Beattie criticises failure to name killers and calls for public inquiry

Kingsmill massacre survivor Alan Black (front) and Karen Armstrong (centre), the sister of victim John McConville, with friends and supporters of the victims arriving at Laganside Courts, Belfast, for today's inquest.

There must be a public inquiry into the Kingsmill murders, the sole survivor of the atrocity said tonight.

Alan Black was shot 18 times and left for dead among 10 of his slain workmates on a Co Armagh roadside by IRA terrorists on January 5 1976.

The long-running inquest today found the massacre was an "overtly sectarian attack by the IRA".

The men were ordered from a bus and shot at the roadside in Co Armagh for no other reason than they were Protestant, the coroner said, branding claims that the IRA were not involved as a lie.

No-one has ever been convicted in connection with the killings, which were admitted by a group calling itself the South Armagh Republican Action Force.

But delivering his findings in the long-running inquest today, coroner Brian Sherrard outlined extensive ballistics evidence linking the weapons used at Kingsmill to a series of attacks carried out by the IRA.

Sole survivor of the Kingsmill massacre arrives at court for long-running inquiry into atrocity

He said: Shortly after the attack the so-called South Armagh Republican Action Force claimed responsibility for it. That was a lie.

"The attack was carried out by the IRA operating under the authority of the Army Council which had, in April 1975, given wide authorisation to IRA units.

"It was sophisticated and complex, involving multiple individuals in its planning and execution."

However, Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie criticised the failure to name those responsible for the shooting, saying the inquest has failed at every level.

Mr Beattie called on the Government to do the right thing and hold an inquiry into the massacre.

And speaking outside the inquest, Mr Black, who is now in a wheelchair, said he is still searching for the truth, describing the inquest as a "Band-Aid".

He said: "I am so disappointed with this inquest.

"At every turn of the way they have hidden behind national security. These murders happened 48 years ago, what on earth, how can national security be compromised by murders that happened 48 years ago. It beggars belief.

"We're not anywhere near the truth. We need a public inquiry. I would call on everyone that has a friend that got hurt to back us in getting this public inquiry because we're never going to get the truth without it.

"This has been a Band-Aid, that's all and it has left us all so dissatisfied."

The 10 men who died at Kingsmill were Robert Chambers, 18; John Bryans, 46; Reginald Chapman, 29; Walter Chapman, 35; Robert Freeburn, 50; Joseph Lemmon, 46; John McConville, 20; James McWhirter, 58; Robert Walker, 46; and Kenneth Worton, 24.

The atrocity came amid a series of sectarian killings in Co Armagh.

Catholic brothers John Martin, Brian and Anthony Reavey were shot dead in their home at Whitecross in south Armagh by the UVF on January 4 1976.

Three members of the Catholic O'Dowd family were killed by gunmen on the same night as the Reavey family murders. Joseph O'Dowd, 61, and his nephews Barry O'Dowd, 24, and Declan O'Dowd, 19, were killed, while Barney O'Dowd, father of the boys, was seriously injured.

The Kingsmill massacre happened the following night, on January 5 1976.

Kingsmill victims John Bryans (46), Robert Chambers (19), Reginald Chapman (25), Walter Chapman (23), Robert Freeburn (50), Joseph Lemmon (46), John McConville (20), James McWhirter (58), Robert Walker (46) and Kenneth Worton (24)

Mr Sherrard, in his findings added: The attack, while ostensibly in direct response to the murderous attacks on the Reavey and ODowd families by loyalist terrorists on the evening of January 4 1976, was not spontaneous but had been planned well in advance.

"The IRA failed to engage with the inquest. There has been no acknowledgement by the IRA of the utter wrongness of the atrocity, its impact on those bereaved or the damage caused to the entire community.

"Kingsmill was an overtly sectarian attack by the IRA. It was mounted because the deceased men were Protestants and for no other reason.

Mr Sherrard dismissed any suggestion that perpetrators were not pursued in order to protect an IRA informant, describing it as "unhelpful conspiracy theorising".

"Such an assertion is entirely without foundation," he said.

Two individuals identified as suspects in the Kingsmill attack were later given contentious so-called comfort letters issued by the UK Government to "On the Run" republican suspects during the peace process.

Mr Sherrard insisted that the "OTR letters" had not impeded the inquest, as he highlighted that no firm evidence connecting the individuals to the shootings had ever emerged.

The coroner outlined various errors and omissions in the police investigation in the wake of the shooting.

However, he insisted those should be viewed in the context of the time and said there should be no attempt to shift the blame away from those responsible for the "brutal" murders.

"The investigation was not perfect," Mr Sherrard said.

"But its deficits can be put down to the abnormal security environment of south Armagh in 1976, the extraordinary demands on the police and the murderous competence of those who executed the atrocity and left without a trace."

He said there can be "little doubt" that the likely suspects were known to the security forces at the time.

"But common knowledge as to those with means and motive to carry out this heinous act does not amount to evidence," Mr Sherrard said.

Mr Sherrard said the Irish border was "exploited by terrorists" who carried out the Kingsmill attack.

He said: "Each jurisdiction had its own police, its own military and its own laws.

"Normal policing was impossible in South Armagh which, in contrast to the Republic of Ireland, was in chaos due to terrorism.

"The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland at the time of the attack, Merlyn Rees, citing the hostility of certain members of the local population, described the area as 'almost uncontrollable'.

"The border allowed for planning, training, organisation, weapons storage and retreat at a safe physical and legal distance from the authorities that would be faced with investigating terrorist acts in Northern Ireland."

Afterwards, reacting to the findings, Doug Beattie said the inquest has failed at every level.

He said it has failed to give the families confidence that they would receive information into the loss of their loved ones, failed to identify publicly those responsible for this horrific crime although they are known.

"It also failed to move the Irish government into finally giving up their secrets into this vile episode of our troubled past in an open and transparent manner."

Mr Beattie added: We now have to look towards the United Kingdom Government and ask them to do the right thing and hold an inquiry into the Kingsmill massacre, making public the information that has been made known to them via the security services since that fateful day."

Former UUP MLA and Kingsmill campaigner, Danny Kennedy said: This is indeed a very dark day for Alan Black and the Kingsmill families. They have every right to feel desperately angry and let down, as I do, having supported their campaign for justice over these long years.

The justice system has failed them.

Newry & Armagh DUP MLA William Irwin said the Kingsmill Inquest has justified the lack of confidence that many families have had in the process for some time.

He said: The Kingsmill massacre has stood as overtly sectarian since 1976. It did not require an inquest to discover this, but it has at least been formally recognised that innocent workmen were selected for murder because of their religion.

"The question can rightly be posed as to how anyone can state that there was no alternative to the IRAs sectarian slaughter of innocent people at Kingsmill.

TUV leader Jim Allister said the coroners failure to name the murderers responsible was a grievous shortcoming.

"Many unanswered questions remain about this darkest of days in the long annals of terror in our province, he said.

Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly said the Kingsmill families are entitled to truth and justice, as he accused the Government of closing the door on families through the controversial Legacy Act.
A man was dragged from his house in Carrickfergus in an attack believed to be linked to the UVF.

Multiple neighbours reportedly witnessed the attack on Thursday night, sources told this newspaper.

The PSNI confirmed that an aggravated burglary took place shortly before 10pm.

A spokesperson said police received reports that masked men, wearing dark coloured clothing, forced their way into a house in the Salia Avenue area and dragged the male occupant outside, where they assaulted him with weapons.

The suspects then made off from the scene on foot, the PSNI added.

The victim, who is aged in his 30s, sustained multiple injuries and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening at this time.

Alliance councillor Lauren Gray said that this was a brutal and shocking incident, made all the more sinister by being carried out by masked men.

"The local community does not want to see this violence on our streets and there can never be any justification for it, she told the Belfast Telegraph.

"I urge anyone with information on this incident to contact police with it immediately."

Detective Inspector Lyttle continued: An investigation into this incident is ongoing, and we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed what happened or who may have any information which may assist us.

The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 1977 of 11/04/24.

A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/
Suspect is being questioned on suspicion of attempted murder

Police forensics officers examine the area around a taxi as they investigate the shooting incident.

A man is being questioned on suspicion of attempted murder after a shooting near Banbridge.

The victim, aged in his 40s, remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital, police said this afternoon.

The shooting happened shortly after 8pm last night in a car park on the Rathfriland Road.

The victim, who was shot in the abdomen, is believed to have been targeted while sitting in a taxi.

Today police forensics officers in white clothing could be seen carrying out searches of the scene.

A grey-coloured car, with its passenger window shattered, remained at the scene.

Detectives are also probing a link between the shooting and a vehicle found on fire nearby.

The getaway car burning on Friday night. Photo: Kevin Scott.

Detective Inspector Foley from the PSNIs Serious Crime Branch said: A man, aged in his 40s, who was shot in his abdomen by a masked man while in the car park on Rathfriland Road around 8pm, remains in a critical, but stable condition in hospital.

Due to new evidence, we now believe the suspect made off from the scene in a silver-coloured Peugeot vehicle, rather than a Citroen car, as previously reported.

A silver Peugeot vehicle was found burnt out a short time later in the Drone Hill Road area of Corbet.

A 46-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and conspiracy to murder remains in custody at this time, assisting detectives with their enquiries.

Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie urged anyone with information to come forward, saying the shooting was a shocking incident.

Guns do not belong on our streets. If you have any information regarding this incident please get in touch with the PSNI, he added.

DUP MP Carla Lockhart said: Please allow the PSNI time and space to investigate this serious incident.

Local Alliance MLA Eoin Tennyson said those behind the shooting do not represent the wider community in Upper Bann.

I utterly condemn this sickening attack, as will any right-thinking individual, he said.

My thoughts are with the victim of this terrible incident, who I hope makes a full recovery from his injuries.

The local community in Banbridge has been left shocked by this shooting. Those behind it certainly do not represent anyone in the town or indeed further afield. There is no place for guns on our streets and the culprits need taken off our streets.

I appeal to anyone with information on this incident to contact police with it immediately.

Sinn Fein councillor Kevin Savage said: There is no place for guns on our streets, those responsible need to desist.

Anyone with information on this attack should bring it forward to the PSNI.

A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Ambulance confirmed one person was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.

"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a 999 call at 8.06pm following reports of an incident in the Tullyear Close area of Banbridge, they said.

NIAS despatched a Rapid Response Paramedic and an emergency crew to the incident.

Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, one patient was taken by ambulance to RVH in Belfast.

Police said the Drone Hill Road and Rathfriland Road, including its off-slip and on-slip to the A1 dual carriageway, remain closed on Saturday afternoon.

DI Foley added: Cordons are also in place as enquiries continue and we would advise road users to avoid these areas at this time. Local diversions are currently signposted.

The detective added: We are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed what happened or noticed anything suspicious, to make contact with police on 101, quoting reference number 1683 12/04/24.

We would especially like to hear from anyone who may have any CCTV, dash-cam or mobile footage of what happened. This information could greatly help with our enquiries.

Information can also be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Alan Black, who was shot multiple times, was the sole survivor of the attack (Oliver McVeigh/PA)

The shooting dead of 10 Protestant workmen at Kingsmill in Co Armagh in 1976 was an overtly sectarian attack by the IRA, a coroner has ruled.

The atrocity at Kingsmill, which was one of the most notorious of the Troubles, was claimed by a little-known paramilitary group calling itself the South Armagh Republican Action Force.

It was long seen as a front for the IRA, which was supposedly on ceasefire at the time of the sectarian massacre.

Delivering his findings in the long-running inquest, coroner Brian Sherrard heavily criticised the IRA, and its political representatives, for failing to engage with the proceedings.

In remarks that took over four hours to read to Belfast Coroners Court, Mr Sherrard also dismissed as utter fantasy rumours that British Army Captain Robert Nairac infiltrated the IRA and was involved in the Kingsmill massacre.

In a further finding, the coroner said there seemed to have been a reluctance on the part of the Irish State to acknowledge the role of the border in the Kingsmill atrocity, noting that it was at least in part organised in the Republic of Ireland.

Following the conclusion of the inquest, the sole survivor of the shooting Alan Black and relatives of one of the victims called for a public inquiry into the attack, insisting the coronial proceedings had failed to answer their questions.

The coroner dismissed as utter fantasy rumours that British Army Captain Robert Nairac infiltrated the IRA and was involved in the Kingsmill massacre (PA)

They also criticised the coroners failure to name two dead suspects linked to the massacre in his findings.

Were not anywhere near the truth, Mr Black said outside court.

We need a public inquiry. I would call on everyone that has a friend that got hurt to back us in getting this public inquiry because were never going to get the truth without it.

The 10 workmen were murdered on January 5 1976 when their minibus was ambushed by a gang of at least 12 men posing as British soldiers outside the village of Kingsmill on their way home from working at a textiles factory.

Alan Black, centre, was shot multiple times in the attack (Oliver McVeigh/PA)

Those on board were asked their religion, and the only Catholic was ordered to run away.

The killers forced the 11 remaining men to line up outside the van before opening fire.

Mr Black survived despite being shot multiple times.

No-one has ever been convicted of the Kingsmill murders.

The 10 men who died were Robert Chambers, 18; John Bryans, 46; Reginald Chapman, 29; Walter Chapman, 35; Robert Freeburn, 50; Joseph Lemmon, 46; John McConville, 20; James McWhirter, 58; Robert Walker, 46; and Kenneth Worton, 24.

Posters of the men killed in the attack (Niall Carson/PA)

Mr Sherrard dismissed the suggestion that the IRA had not committed the murders as a cynical lie.

The coroner said the glaring omission in the proceedings had been the absence of any evidence from those who caused the attack.

The glaring omission in the inquest was the absence of any disclosure or evidence from those who caused the deaths, he said.

Unlike other legacy inquests which have examined the actions of the state in directly causing death, those responsible for the deaths at Kingsmill have not given an account either personally or through any organisation or any political party.

Numerous calls to assist and provide answers were met with silence.

Accordingly, the inquest did not receive disclosure from any individual concerned in the attack, nor their organisation, nor their political representatives, although expert evidence was given that records may well exist.

Mr Sherrard said there had been no recognition from the perpetrators of the utter wrongness of the Kingsmill attack.

He said: Neither did the inquest hear evidence from the perpetrators regarding matters such as the motivation for the attack, its planning and personnel and its execution.

There has been no recognition by any perpetrator or their organisation or political representatives as to the utter wrongness of the attack which served to end the lives of 10 men and to devastate the lives of untold others.

As Mr Black and bereaved relatives watched from the public gallery of the court in Belfast, Mr Sherrard outlined extensive ballistics evidence linking the weapons used at Kingsmill to a series of attacks carried out by the IRA.

He said the unassailable evidence showed that the guns fired at Kingsmill were the exclusive property of the IRA.

Mr Sherrard rejected the claim that the rogue republican group had carried out the attack as a lie, insisting it was perpetrated by the IRA, which used a cynical ploy to mask its involvement in nakedly sectarian killings.

The Kingsmill memorial wall in Co Armagh (Niall Carson/PA)

The Kingsmill shootings were seen as a retaliatory action in response to loyalist attacks against two Catholic families the day before in which six men were fatally injured.

Mr Sherrard acknowledged the ostensible link to the attacks on the ODowd and Reavey families, but he made clear that planning for the Kingsmill shootings had started long before the targeting of those two families.

Mr Sherrard said rumours around Captain Nairacs involvement in Kingsmill had persisted for many years, but he said he was entirely satisfied that he had no role whatsoever in the atrocity.

The British Army officer was abducted by the IRA while on an undercover operation in a pub in south Armagh in 1977, the year after Kingsmill.

He was then taken to Flurry Bridge in County Louth where he was beaten and shot dead. His remains have never been found.

Coroner Sherrard also dismissed any suggestion that the perpetrators of Kingsmill were not pursued by the authorities in order to protect an IRA informant, describing it as unhelpful conspiracy theorising.

Such an assertion is entirely without foundation, he said.

Two individuals identified as suspects in the Kingsmill attack were later given contentious so-called comfort letters issued by the UK Government to On The Run (OTR) republican suspects during the peace process.

Mr Sherrard insisted that the OTR letters had not impeded the inquest, as he highlighted that no firm evidence connecting the individuals to the shootings had ever emerged.

He also outlined various errors and omissions in the police investigation in the wake of the shooting.

But he insisted those should be viewed in the context of the time and said there should be no attempt to shift the blame away from those responsible for the brutal murders.

The investigation was not perfect, Mr Sherrard said.

But its deficits can be put down to the abnormal security environment of south Armagh in 1976, the extraordinary demands on the police and the murderous competence of those who executed the atrocity and left without a trace.

He said there could be little doubt that the likely suspects were known to the security forces at the time.

But common knowledge as to those with means and motive to carry out this heinous act does not amount to evidence, Mr Sherrard said.
Watch: Police called in to deal with crowd outside west Belfast property

A window was smashed at a property in west Belfast after a number of people had gathered in the St Bernadettes Avenue area.

The incident occurred around 7.10pm on Thursday.

It comes after a man was stabbed multiple times in St Bernadettes Avenue in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Police attended the incident on Thursday and video footage showed two people being removed from the scene. However, no arrests were made.

The footage also showed the crowd outside the property when a person wearing a black coat throws an object through the living room window.

As the two occupants were escorted from the scene, the crowd can be heard chanting cheerio.

Locator: St Bernadette's Avenue

A spokesperson for the PSNI said: Police attended a report of a number of people, who had gathered outside a property, at the St Bernadettes Avenue area of west Belfast on Thursday, April 11.

At around 7.10pm, it was reported that a number of people were in the area.

Damage was reported to the front living room window and front door of the property during the incident.

Officers engaged with the crowd, who later dispersed from the area.

On Thursday, two people were released on police bail while inquiries continue after they were arrested for attempted murder following the stabbing.

The victim suffered injuries to his face, body and arms during the incident in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Footage from the scene where man stabbed multiple times

The PSNI said: Just after 2.45am, we received a report from our colleagues in Northern Ireland Ambulance Service that a man had been stabbed in the St Bernadette's Avenue area.

When officers arrived at the scene, a man aged in his 20s was found with multiple wounds to his face, body and arms.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening at this time.

A 38-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman were arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.

Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious to contact police on 101 quoting reference 135 of 10/04/24.
Irish jewellery designer takes aim at cynical people after post about 6,400 lost ring went viral

Ms Sweetman said she shared the tale on social media in a very genuine attempt to reunite this engagement ring with its owner

Dublin jewellery designer takes aim at cynical people after post about 7,500 lost ring went viral

Ellen Coyne Fri 12 Apr 2024 at 20:40

A boutique Irish jewellery designer has put a new spin on the term engagement ring, after it used a tale about a lost sapphire to tell a viral story.
Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly said the families of Kingsmill victims are entitled to truth and justice (Liam McBurney/PA)

The families of Kingsmill victims are entitled to truth and justice, Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly has said.

Mr Kelly was reacting after a coroner ruled that the shooting of 10 Protestant workmen in 1976 was an overtly sectarian attack by the IRA.

Coroner Brian Sherrard also heavily criticised the political representatives of the IRA for failing to engage with the proceedings.

Mr Kelly said: The Kingsmill families are entitled to truth and justice.

In 2014, the two governments and the main Assembly parties signed up to the Stormont House Agreement which included human rights compliant mechanisms to ensure all families can access truth and justice, through independent investigations and the continuation of judicial processes such as inquests, truth recovery and the legal system.

The British Governments shameful Legacy Act is about closing the door on families ever getting truth and justice.

They should repeal it and fully implement the Stormont House Agreement in a human rights compliant manner.

The UK Governments Act will halt legacy inquests which have not reached the point of verdict by May 1 and offers a limited form of immunity from prosecution for Troubles-related offences for those who co-operate with a new body aimed at truth recovery.

Last month, a judge at Belfast High Court ruled that the provision for conditional immunity was not compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The Government is appealing against that finding.

William Irwin of the DUP said many of the Kingsmill victims have lost faith in the judicial system (Liam McBurney/PA)

DUP MLA William Irwin attended Laganside Courthouse on Friday where the inquest findings were delivered.

He said: Those who still bear the pain of what happened in 1976 have not seen anyone brought to justice, and now have faced obfuscation and evasion from authorities in the Republic of Ireland and others elsewhere.

Some who talk most loudly about the need for truth appear only to mean this when it relates to the actions of the security forces.

Many of the victims lost faith in this process some time ago and it will be of no comfort to them that their stance has been justified.

Mr Irwin added: The families have been through decades of pain and grief because of the actions of republicans.

Doug Beattie, leader of the UUP, said the inquest had failed at every level (Oliver McVeigh/PA)

Ulster Unionist Party leader Doug Beattie said the inquest had failed at every level.

He added: Failed to give the families confidence that they would receive information into the loss of their loved ones, failed to identify publicly those responsible for this horrific crime although they are known.

It also failed to move the Irish government into finally giving up their secrets into this vile episode of our troubled past in an open and transparent manner.

Mr Beattie added: We now have to look towards the United Kingdom Government and ask them to do the right thing and hold an inquiry into the Kingsmill massacre, making public the information that has been made known to them via the security services since that fateful day.

TUV leader Jim Allister said many unanswered questions remained about Kingsmill (Liam McBurney/PA)

TUV leader Jim Allister said many unanswered questions about Kingsmill remained.

He said: To this day, republicanism maintains the fiction that the PIRA were not responsible for Kingsmill.

Welcome as todays finding is, the coroners failure to name the murderers responsible was a grievous shortcoming.

Many unanswered questions remain about this darkest of days in the long annals of terror in our province.

It is for that reason that I believe that nothing short of a full public inquiry is necessary to get to the truth.
Humza Yousaf has said the UKs continued export of arms to Israel could leave the country complicit in the killings of civilians (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Scotlands First Minister Humza Yousaf has urged the UK Government to rethink its plans to continue to allow arms exports to Israel  warning it risks being complicit in the killing of innocent civilians.

Mr Yousaf said it was difficult to comprehend that the UK Government has not ended the licensing of arms exports to Israel despite the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians, the majority women and children, since last October.

He condemned the attacks by Hamas on October 7 which sparked the conflict but said the response has gone far beyond any legitimate response.

Mr Yousaf wrote letters to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on February 23 and April 3 to raise concerns, and cited an open letter signed by more than 600 legal experts warning of potential UK complicity in grave breaches of international law, including violations of the Genocide Convention.

Humza Yousaf and wife Nadia El-Nakla who is of Palestinian heritage (Jane Barlow/PA Wire)

Lord Ahmad, minister for the Middle East, responded on April 8 and did not agree to end the licensing of arms exports to Israel, according to Mr Yousafs letter.

In his reply to Lord Ahmad on April 12, the First Minster wrote: I welcome the UK Governments stated commitment to International Humanitarian Law, our diplomats contribution to finally achieving a UN Security Council Resolution, and the UKs wider efforts to bring an end to the tragedy befalling the people of the Middle East.

I share with you the grief at the killing of three British aid workers, along with every other innocent man, woman and child killed in Gaza and Israel since Hamass terrorist attacks of October 7 and Israels response, which has gone far beyond any legitimate response.

In spite of everything in your reply, I note you have not agreed to end the licence of arms exports to Israel, which means the UK will continue to arm Israels war in Gaza, that has left tens of thousands dead, the majority reported to be women and children.

Lord Ahmad responded to the First Ministers letter (Jane Barlow/PA)

As I said in my letter of April 3, by continuing to arm Israel, the United Kingdom Government is in danger of being complicit in the killing of innocent civilians.

I find it difficult to comprehend that this continues to be the United Kingdoms position against the backdrop of the ICJ ruling; UN Security Council, General Assembly and Human Rights Council Resolutions; countless UN officials statements about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza; and the recent open letter signed by over 600 legal professionals warning of potential UK complicity in grave breaches of international law, including violations of the Genocide Convention.

If this, alongside the killing of British nationals among at least 35,000 dead  the majority of whom are innocent women and children  is insufficient to change your policy, what more will it take?

The UK Government has been contacted for comment.
Rescue workers in Ukraine have pulled five puppies from underneath the rubble of a destroyed building.

Officials said the puppies were rescued from a non-residential building that was on fire in the north-eastern city of Sumy, close to the border with Russia.

A video showed the puppies squealing as the firefighters cuddled them in their hands and rinsed them off with water.

Ukrainian firefighters have rescued five puppies (Ukrainian Emergency Service via AP)

Fortunately, everything is fine with the little one(s), they were not injured. The furries were returned by their mothers, officials said in a post on the emergency services Telegram channel.

This rescue story reminds us of the importance of human compassion and the willingness to help everyone, regardless of the circumstances, they added.
Chaplain Jim Linzey's Dream of Russian Missile Attack Might Coincide with George Washington's Third Dream

Chaplain Jim Linzey, now Army retired, prays over his soldiers at Fort Dix, New Jersey, as they depart for Iraq on September 1, 2007



NEWS PROVIDED BY

Military Bible Association

April 12, 2024



WASHINGTON, April 12, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Chaplain (MAJ) James F. Linzey (Ret.): At 9:07 AM on April 1, 2024, my phone rang, and I woke up! I was awakened while in a panic out of a horrifying dream of a missile attack from Russia and living through the nightmare.



I was standing outside on a plateau, miles from the mountains behind me. A sense of despair came upon me. With great urgency, I instinctively turned around to see if a missile was flying over the mountains. Seeing nothing but a blue sky, I turned around and began walking. Again, fear gripped my soul. Immediately, I turned around and looked into the sky above the mountains for a missile. But again, I was relieved to see an empty blue sky. Turning around, I continued on my way. I had taken just a few steps.



With something gnawing at my spirit, I then turned back around a third time to see across the plateau. I saw that in an instance the Pentagon had raised numerous missiles out of silos which were now positioned to counterattack an incoming missile attack.



Pentagon and government officials knew that we would momentarily be under attack. Then to my horror I saw the first missile from Russia coming over the mountains. Instantly, I fled for cover, not knowing whether the missile would strike where I was, or the fields of pre-positioned missiles, or elsewhere.



Then suddenly, America was bombed into pre-historic conditions. I saw great roots of trees protruding from the land. In the cities, large rock formations lifted from the ground and caves that were underground were now exposed with pre-historic creatures in them, which were alive, and which I thought were extinct. I saw many that were killed by the explosion from the missile attack. The carnage of their corpses was everywhere. In a matter of days their stench in the cities would be unbearable.



Military retirees and reservists were activated. They did not have to wait for orders. The attack was so utterly devastating that they just knew to activate. Further missile attacks were imminent. Many of our missiles were ready to counter attack, which would unleash Russia's entire nuclear arsenal automatically. I sensed imminent destruction of mankind on earth.



Military personnel in the cities were crawling down into the crevices of the rocks that had protruded from the ground to shield themselves from the blows to come at any second. They were not concerned about getting scraped up among the rocks. They merely wanted to survive if possible.



The anticipated final attack had not occurred. This gave the military time to further mobilize in the cities to bring order to society and prepare for war. Cars were being driven somewhat recklessly, averting debris in the streets.



And then my phone rang, and I woke up!



General George Washington had three dreams of war on American soil. The first was the Revolutionary War, the second was the Civil War, and the third was a dream of great clouds coming from other nations and covering America, representing a third war, so horrendous as never before experienced by any nation on earth. This might take the form of a missile attack. Let us be vigilant, ready to fight for America, and pray for God to help us. SOURCE: Chaplain (MAJ) James F. Linzey (Ret.)



CONTACT: Jim Linzey, 760-855-3905, MilitaryBibleAssociation@gmail.com



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MilitaryBibleAssociation.com





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Authorities in the Russian city of Orenburg have ordered a mass evacuation after water levels in the Ural river rose further, threatening the area with more flooding.

Orenburg mayor Sergei Salmin called on residents to urgently evacuate as sirens rang out in the city near the border with Kazakhstan.

This is not a drill, Mr Salmin wrote. The flood situation in Orenburg is extremely dangerous. Over the past 10 hours, the water level in the Ural (River) has risen by 40cm and is now at 11.43 (metres). These values are dangerous.

Two men ride a boat delivering food in a flooded area in Orenburg, Russia (AP)

Images from the city showed entire districts submerged by water.

The deluge hit the region, located 745 miles south east of the capital, Moscow, after a dam on the Ural River burst last week in the city of Orsk under the pressure of surging waters.

The authorities have designated the situation in the region as an emergency of federal importance.

Over 11,700 houses remained flooded in the region on Friday, a decrease from nearly 12,000 reported the day before, as water levels fell slightly in Orsk, state news agency Tass reported.

A woman carries her cat while getting off a boat in a flooded part of Orenburg(AP)

Some 10,700 people have already been evacuated from flooded areas, according to Tass.

The Ural River, runs about 1,509 miles from the southern section of the Ural Mountains, through Russia and Kazakhstan, before flowing into the north end of the Caspian Sea.
Pope Francis waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St Peters Square at The Vatican (Andrew Medichini/AP)

Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican has announced, confirming the longest trip of Francis papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the September 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore.

Further details will be announced later.

Pope Francis waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St Peters Square at The Vatican (Andrew Medichini/AP)

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis.

He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy.

It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the worlds most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later  this week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.

Pope Francis meets with volunteers of the Italian Red Cross in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican (Gregorio Borgia/AP)

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace, the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians  8.5 million of whom are Catholics  according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asias only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timors population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner.

The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will also be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St John Paul II travelled there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapores first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it will bring renewed fervour to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year  to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the countrys Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina, but no plans or dates have been announced.
Episode 1 of a two-part series uncovering declassified Government files

Sometimes, governments can have good reasons to keep things from the public.

Nuclear missile secrets, the names of spies, and technological advances are, perhaps, the sort of information which should be kept secret.

However, it seems the government has been keeping vital files on Northern Ireland, hidden in plain sight.

Thousands of declassified files on NI and the troubles have been deposited, not in Belfast, but in the Kew Archives in London.

Sam McBride, the Belfast Telegraph's Northern Ireland Editor, has travelled to London in search of the secrets of the Troubles and beyond.

What are the Kew files?

Why are these important files quietly deposited in London?

What secrets do they reveal?

In part 1 of a two-part special of the BelTel, Ciaran Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride to discuss the Kew Files and what they tell us about Martin McGuinness, the IRA and the SDLP.
A painted portrait of His Majesty King Charles III, painted by artist Gareth Reid. The painting is included in the new re-hang of Irish Art in the State Drawing Room at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

When you walk through the doors of our historic royal palaces you expect to be treated to a view of the finer things in life.

The most intimate of the royal properties, Hillsborough Castle, provides visitors who enjoy a taste of high society life an up close and personal experience.

The Co Down home, the official residence of the Secretary of State and frequented by the royal family on their visits, has always taken great pride in supporting the best of Irish art, which adorns the walls to match the surroundings perfectly.

Already home to some of the finest works of art on the island of Ireland, a new collaboration across the border will see the collection embellished with 33 new works to arrive for show from a variety of lenders across the country, including 14 from Crawford Art Gallery in Cork.

Its the largest-ever loan from the Republic as the residence steps up its reputation as a haven for art lovers.

And for the rest of us, a chance to stare at the walls and try to add up how much its all worth.
Shalom Avitan, 37, was allegedly found in possession of a cache of guns and more than 100 rounds of ammunition.

UPDATED at 12:03 a.m. 05-21-24

A Malaysian court on Friday charged an Israeli man with two firearms-related offenses after he was found in possession of a cache of guns and more than 100 rounds of ammunition in the capital Kuala Lumpur.

Shalom Avitan, 37, pleaded not guilty at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court to the charges of arms trafficking and possession of ammunition without a license.

Police arrested Avitan at the Four Seasons Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on March 27 after receiving a tip. Officers searching his room found six semi-automatic pistols  including a Sig Sauer, a Glock and a Smith & Wesson  along with 158 bullets, according to charges read in court.

Wearing a black t-shirt and beige trousers, Avitan was escorted into the court by more than a dozen armed policemen. Defense lawyer Navinjit Singh said his client had been in custody for 18 days and would be taken to Sungai Buloh prison in Selangor state before his next hearing on May 21.

The potential maximum sentence for arms trafficking is 40 years' jail and six strokes of the cane. Possession of ammunition without license carries a sentence of up to seven years and a fine not exceeding 10,000 ringgit ($2,106), or both.

According to Israeli news outlets, Avitan is an associate of a known crime family and allegedly came to Malaysia to assassinate the leader of a rival criminal group.

Malaysian police chief Razarudin Hussain has confirmed the defendant allegedly told investigators he was hunting another Israeli citizen, but police are not ruling out a different agenda  including the possibility he was a spy for Israeli intelligence.

As I have pointed out, the suspect could be a threat to our leaders, foreign diplomats and even leaders from Hamas, he told a local newspaper last week.

Avitan flew to Malaysia on March 12 from the United Arab Emirates using a French passport. He was issued a tourist visa and moved between four hotels in Kuala Lumpur before his arrest.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution has confirmed Avitan's passport had been legally issued by the French embassy in Tel Aviv.

Malaysia, a Muslim-majority country, does not have diplomatic relations with Israel and its citizens are barred from visiting unless they obtain special permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has strongly criticized Israel for its bombardment of the Gaza Strip following the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas militants on the Jewish state.

On April 5, Razarudin told BenarNews that police had arrested 16 individuals, including an Eastern European, Georgian and two citizens from Turkey, in connection with the case.

Twelve Malaysians have been named suspects, including a married couple alleged to have supplied the weapons to Avitan.

On Monday, Syarifah Faraha Syed Husin, 41, was charged in Klang Sessions Court for possessing a Luger CZ 75 P-01 CAL. 9 pistol, while her 43-year-old husband, Abdul Azmin Mohd Yasin, was charged with aiding his wife by carrying the weapon.

They face up to 14 years imprisonment and a minimum of six strokes of the cane each if found guilty of violating the firearms act.

This story was updated to correct the two charges faced by Shalom Avitan. A previous version said he was charged with illegal possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm without a license.
Manila, Tokyo and Washington forged closer security and strategic ties at a White House summit of their leaders.

U.S. President Joe Biden escorts Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to their trilateral summit at the White House in Washington, April 11, 2024.

The Philippines stands to reap an economic windfall through a new security partnership with the U.S. and Japan that their leaders unveiled at a Washington summit Thursday, in seeking to dull the edge of Chinas influence in the Asia-Pacific.

Joe Biden, the U.S. president, hosted Philippine and Japanese leaders Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Fumio Kishida at the White House in what was billed as an inaugural tripartite summit. It came on the heels of surging Chinese assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea.

As part of a joint statement outlining their collective vision for regional security, the three leaders announced plans for collaborating on economic projects in the Philippines, including developing an infrastructure and high-tech connectivity corridor on the main island of Luzon.

The three allies were careful to describe their new partnership as a defense cooperation pact in nature.

We meet today as friends and partners, bound by a shared vision and pursuit of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, President Marcos said.

It is a partnership, borne not out of convenience nor of expediency, but as a natural progression of a deepening relations and robust cooperation amongst our three nations, linked by a profound respect for democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (second from left), attends a trilateral meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (not pictured) in the East Room of the White House in Washington, April 11, 2024. [Mark Schiefelbein/AP]

Marcos, the namesake son of the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, has steered his country back to close relations with the United States, its traditional ally, after those ties had cooled under his predecessor, who drew the Philippines closer to China.

Marcos said the summit was the culmination of cooperation by the three nations that had started even before the historic one-day meeting took place.

Security officials of the three nations already had been meeting to lay the foundation for trilateral maritime exercises, and the expansion of annual large-scale maritime exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines, he said.

The trilateral meeting, Marcos said, would likely evolve in the future, as the three partners all face increasingly complex challenges that require an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order.

That was an indirect reference to China. The three allies have often accused Beijing of ignoring international rules as it moves to expand its reach in the region.

More directly, the joint statement expressed the three nations steadfast opposition to the dangerous and coercive use by China of its coast guard and maritime militia ships in the South China Sea as well as efforts to disrupt other countries offshore resource exploration.

We reiterate serious concern over [Chinas] repeated obstruction of Philippine vessels exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and the disruption of supply lines to Second Thomas Shoal, it said, referring to a reef also known as Ayungin Shoal, which lies in South China Sea waters within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Japan, for its part, is locked in a territorial dispute with China in the East China Sea.

In their statement, the leaders reiterated their strong opposition to any attempts by the PRC [Peoples Republic of China] to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea.

This includes actions that seek to undermine Japans longstanding and peaceful administration of the Senkaku Islands.

On Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province, the leaders meanwhile affirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

This is a meeting that looks ahead. As we deepen our ties and enhance our coordination, we seek to identify ways of growing our economies and making them more resilient, climate-proofing our cities and our societies, sustaining our development progress, and forging a peaceful world for the next generation, Marcos said.

Demonstrators rally outside the White House in Washington to protest the visit of Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., April 11, 2024. [Drew Angerer /AFP]

Marcos father was a staunch ally of the United States, which during the Cold War operated huge naval and air bases in areas where the hi-tech Luzon corridor is to be installed.

Last year, Marcos Jr.s administration agreed to a controversial deal with Washington to grant the U.S. military greater access on a rotational basis to bases in the northern Philippines.

The agreement has angered anti-war activists in the Philippines, who warn it could provoke Beijing and that their country could be caught in the middle of fighting should a conflict break out between the U.S. and China over Taiwan. On Thursday, protesters gathered near the White House as well as outside the U.S. Embassy in Manila to denounce the bilateral pact.

In lockstep

On Thursday, Biden reiterated that his administrations support for Manila was ironclad and that the two countries were bound by a mutual treaty to defend each other in times of foreign aggression. This decades-old pact was updated recently to cover civilian vessels, as well as ships from the Philippine Coast Guard.

Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty, Biden said in remarks at the White House.

In this handout photo received through the U.S. Embassy in Manila, two Philippine Air Force FA-50s (left) fly alongside two U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles over the South China Sea during joint maritime and air patrols, Nov. 21, 2023. [Airman 1st Class Alexis Redin/U.S. Air Force/AFP]

On Friday, the national security advisers of the Philippines and the United States, together with their respective defense chiefs and top diplomats, took part in an unprecedented 3+3 meeting in Washington.

Our alliance is stronger than ever, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said before the meeting at the State Department. At the Pentagon, were working in lockstep with our colleagues at the [Philippine] Department of National Defense to strengthen interoperability between our forces, to expand our operational coordination, and to stand up to coercion in the South China Sea.

Last year, the two allies launched joint sea and air patrols in the contested waterway.

U.S. Marines with the First Marine Expeditionary Force conduct close-quarter battle operations along with their Filipino counterparts as part of the Marine Exercise 2024 at Camp Abubakar in Sultan Kudarat, southern Philippines, April 11, 2024. [Mark Navales/BenarNews]

Meanwhile in Beijing, Chinas foreign ministry criticized the summit in Washington as bloc politics.

We firmly oppose any acts that stoke and drive up tensions and harm other countries strategic security and interests, ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a regularly scheduled news conference on Friday.

We are seriously against forming exclusive groupings in this region. Japan and the Philippines have every right to develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not introduce bloc confrontation into this region, she said.

Economic projects

During their meeting on Thursday, Marcos, Biden and Kishida also launched the Luzon Corridor  where they pledged to accelerate coordinated investments in high-impact projects including Subic Bay and Clark north of Manila.

Those were the sites of two of Americas largest overseas bases until a nationalist Philippine senate voted to end their lease in the early 1990s.

The corridor, they said, symbolized their enhanced economic cooperation.

Japan, the Philippines and the United States are also partnering to expand cooperation and investments in other areas of the Philippines, they said.

The U.S. State Department said that the Luzon Corridor was expected to have an outsized impact on critical industries, including semiconductors. As part of the plan, the U.S. government would seek to partner with multilateral development institutions as well as the private sector to deploy capital and spur economic activity across the corridor.

Windfall

Defense analyst Chester Cabalza, the founding president of International Development and Security Cooperation, a Philippines think-tank, said both Washington and Tokyo were rewarding Manila for its principled stand on the South China Sea.

Cabalza said it couldnt get any clearer than that, and the windfall of economic pledges was clearly a reward of sorts.

These grew from the bravery of fighting for free and open trade in the Indo-Pacific and by supporting American and Japanese deterrence against a Chinese agenda of dominance in the contested waters, Cabalza told BenarNews on Friday, noting that both industrialized nations had to prepare against Chinas increasing military might including by way of forging alliances.

This is an experimental forging of allegiance for a plausible shooting war in the region, he said.

The analyst noted that the three-nation partnership could boost business confidence, and added that any country could counter China without fear of losing out from Beijings much-touted economic prowess.

The triumvirate has a combined gross domestic product output that is far greater than China to counter Chinas affluence and influence in Southeast Asia, Cabalza said.
Cooperation among combatants is necessary, otherwise, the prolonged war will never end, historian says.

Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara talks to reporters at the immigration building at the second friendship bridge in Mae Sot, Thailand, April 12, 2024.

As fighting intensified between Myanmars military government and opposition forces near the border with Thailand, the top Thai diplomat on Friday urged all parties to engage in dialogue and reduce violence, while an analyst urged Bangkok to provide humanitarian assistance.

Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara made the announcement during a visit to the border region, a day after anti-junta forces said they had driven the juntas last battalion from a major trade hub in Myanmars Kayin state across the border from Mae Sot.

Thailand has sent messages to the Myanmar government several times and ASEAN has also conveyed its message, Parnpree told reporters during a news conference in Mae Sot, referring to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Parnpree said the Thai government had reached out to Myanmars State Administration Council  the official name for the Burmese junta  to call for an end to the violence.

Most recently, there have been discussions within ASEAN about issuing a statement calling for a reduction in violence in Myanmar and encouraging dialogue in line with the ASEAN five -point consensus, he said.

Violence in Myanmar has been escalating since the Feb. 1, 2021, military coup ousted President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. It led to civilian groups and ethnic minority forces to battle against the military government.

In April of that year, the leaders of the 10-member ASEAN agreed to a five-point peace plan for Myanmar during an emergency meeting in Jakarta, which was attended by Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the Burmese junta chief. Since then, the Southeast Asian bloc has largely been criticized for failing to press the Myanmar military government to abide by the plan.

Meanwhile, two months ago, the Myanmar government introduced new conscription regulations, prompting some citizens to flee to Thailand to avoid being drafted.

The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the Karen National Union (KNU), and the Peoples Defense Force (PDF) launched a major offensive, declaring control over Myawaddy, a strategically important town near the Thai border.

Thailands primary concern is to see peace restored in Myawaddy, not just for the sake of trade relations. If the various groups in Myanmar can engage in talks among themselves, Thailand would be pleased and ready to act as a mediator and coordinate efforts, Parnpree told reporters.

However, the current situation has already impacted trade between the two countries, which was substantial in the past but has decreased by several percentage points, a decline that began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Myanmar Special Task Force soldiers stand guard and form a defensive line at the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge No. 1 in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, April 12, 2024. [Wissarut Verasopon-Thai News Pix/BenarNews]

Experts said the fighting could continue for some time as the Myanmar military attempts to recapture Myawaddy, a vital economic lifeline for transporting goods and supplies into Myanmar.

Although the KNU and its allies currently have the upper hand over the SAC in Myawaddy, it is believed that they are not yet able to control the road to Yangon. The Myanmar military is unlikely to give up easily because this route is crucial for transporting goods and supplies from Indochina and Thailand into Myanmar, analyst Dulyapak Preecharush told BenarNews.

Therefore, they must try to regain control of the road, as it is a vital economic lifeline. This is why we are hearing news of tank movements, which will prolong the fighting, said Dulyapak, an assistant professor of Southeast Asian Studies at Thammasat University.

He noted that there will be violence spreading near the border. If there is fighting, people will definitely flee into Thailand, he said while calling on Bangkok to provide humanitarian assistance.

If people are injured, they should be allowed to come, without discrimination, regardless of which side they are on, including officials. Not being biased will prevent the Myanmar military from accusing us of taking sides.

Pornsuk Kerdsawang, an aid worker with Friends Without Borders Foundation based in Mae Sot, said the escalating violence had led to an increase in internally displaced persons (IDPs), adding the Thai government should provide assistance.

In Karen State, there are already 750,000 IDPs. It is believed that if the fighting moves closer to the border, these people may have to cross into Thailand to seek refuge, Pornsuk told BenarNews. What the government can do is to try to talk to civil society in the area to understand their real needs and provide the most effective assistance, Pornsuk said.

In March, Thailand set up a humanitarian corridor to send aid, but it is unclear whether it addresses the root of the problem. The main reason for displacement is attacks by the Myanmar military, the use of artillery, and airstrikes.

Pornsuk called for the Thai government to negotiate a ceasefire or talk to ethnic armed groups to identify safe areas for delivering targeted assistance.

Thailand as mediator

Lalita Hanwong, a historian at Kasetsart University and adviser to the Thai government on national security issues, also called on the government to mediate negotiations to end the conflict across the border.

No one is better suited than Thailand to take on this role. To achieve peace in Myanmar, it is crucial to engage in dialogue with all groups, including ethnic groups and stakeholders, by finding appropriate ways to encourage the Myanmar military government to accept the proposals of ethnic groups, Lalita told BenarNews. Resolving the issue requires cooperation from all sectors; otherwise, the prolonged war will never end.

Myanmar residents wait in line at an immigration checkpoint to cross at the 1st Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Mae Sot, in Thailands Tak province, April 12, 2024. [Sakchai Lalit/AP]

The historian said the Thai government should move quickly and be prepared for multiple scenarios.

For example, if Myanmar is fragmented, Thailand should have a direction for talking to the Shan, Karen, Karenni and Mon. What will be the direction of the relationship with these ethnic minorities? Because if we only have formal talks with the SAC, but in the future, there are no SAC-controlled areas, how will Thailand interact, she said.

Boonsong, 61, a Thai tour van driver in Myawaddy who asked that his full name not be used, said the economy was able to thrive at a time when violence had ceased. He said the recent surge is unfortunate as it comes just before the Songkran (Thai New Year) festival beginning on Saturday.

The impact on people making a living is that tourists from far away are afraid to come because the news reports that there is fighting and shooting. This has led to a decrease in tourism, he told BenarNews.

Normally, this is a festive period when many people come to visit, but now it is quite quiet. In Myawaddy and around the Bayint Naung Market and Myawaddy Complex, customers have completely canceled their trips.

Ruj Chuenban in Bangkok contributed to this report.
BENNINGTON  The Better Bennington Corporation (BBC), the designated downtown organization, with support from the Town of Bennington, is excited to announce its latest collaboration with the North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show (NBOSS VT).

Together, both organizations are proud to bring captivating sculptures to Downtown Bennington, enriching the local cultural scene and creating an engaging artistic environment for residents and visitors alike.

NBOSS has been the longest-running outdoor sculpture show in Southern Vermont. With this exciting partnership, NBOSS will now extend its reach to Downtown Bennington, primarily featuring installations around the Downtown RiverWalk.

Joe Chirchirillo will be curating this years show for the 12th consecutive year, and Jamie Franklin, Bennington Museum curator, will be organizing NBOSS at the Museum for the fifth year of this partnership, and the Better Bennington Corporation Design Committee will be coordinating the first phase of public art projects getting installed around Downtown Bennington.

This expansion represents a significant milestone for the Better Bennington Corporation and the sculpture show because it reflects their commitment to fostering public engagement with art across diverse community spaces. The addition of Downtown Bennington as a site for sculpture installations opens new avenues for cultural exploration and reinforces the region's reputation as a hub for artistic expression.

Jeanne Mintrone, executive director of the Better Bennington Corporation, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:

"We're thrilled to introduce public art to Downtown Bennington, enhancing its vibrancy and allure. This initiative underscores our dedication to celebrating the arts and further distinguishes Downtown Bennington as a destination for creativity and cultural enrichment."

The Better Bennington Corporation is now introducing its first phase of bringing public art to Downtown Bennington through 2D and 3D art, including Barn Quilts and sculptures. The community will be invited to participate in a few workshops that teach the history of the areas folk art and barn quilts and involve community members in the painting aspect.

To accommodate artists interested in participating in NBOSS 2024, the application deadline has been extended to April 30. This extension offers artists additional time to submit their proposals and contribute to the cultural fabric of North Bennington, Bennington Museum, and Downtown Bennington. For more information about NBOSS, visit NbossVT.com/Artists.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 43F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a half an inch..

Tonight

Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 43F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a half an inch.
BENNINGTON  Asher Edelson says difficult challenges are something hes taken on from an early age, which could place his campaign for the Vermont House right in his wheelhouse.

The 29-year-old, a Democrat, said hes gathering voter signatures for a run from Bennington-2 House district in the fall elections.

The incumbents in the two-seat district, Reps. Timothy Corcoran II and Dane Whitman, both also Democrats, are expected to seek re-election. That could set up a contest in the August 13 primary for two party nominations for the November election.

I am running for the Vermont House of Representatives because I feel strongly that disability accessibility, public transit and other crucial issues need to be addressed with a new perspective, and that is what I will bring to Montpelier, Edelson said.

Found a home

Edelson, who moved to the area from the South five years ago, said it was the best decision of his life.

I found community here, and it is everything that I ever wanted in a home, he said. Furthermore, since the move, I have bought my own house, started working as a social studies teacher at the Vermont School for Girls, become chair of the Town Democratic Party and Vermont Democratic Disability Caucus, and was elected to the Southwest Tech school board, among many other fantastic ventures.

He added, Not to mention, I have met many wonderful friends, made new family, and found my partner, Amber."

Edelson said he was born in Atlanta and moved to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area in Florida with his family as a toddler. Florida is where he first encountered a lifelong disability challenge when he was diagnosed at at age seven with Tourette Syndrome.

Nevertheless, Edelson graduated from high school before having to withdraw from college for medical reasons because of complications related to the neurological disability.

I took it upon myself to receive deep brain stimulation surgery, which enabled me to get back on the horse, he said.

Politically active

After re-enrolling in college, Edelson said, he became interested in politics, and has since kept active supporting rights and other causes and sometimes running for office.

I ran for Hillsborough County (Florida) School Board at age nineteen. I lost, he said. However, this run allowed me to dive into Tampa Bays political scene full force.

He received a bachelors degree in political science and history from the University of South Florida and held positions within local political structures, he said, including interning for U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Florida, and working on political campaigns.

In Vermont, Edelson has run for the Bennington Select Board and was elected to the Southwest Tech board, while also becoming a member and then chair of the Bennington Democratic Committee.

He has been an advocate on behalf of the disability rights and on other issues.

Previously, I secured gender identity on Southwest Techs school board policy for anti-discrimination, he said. As chair of the Vermont State Rehabilitation Council, I helped lobby for our state to get mandated hearing aid insurance into law. As a citizen, I have advocated time and time again for people with disabilities, as well as for roads with highly insensitive names ... to be changed.

The last reference is to the ongoing effort in Bennington to review the names of streets that might be offensive to certain groups. A research committee is expected to recommend a new name for Squaw Hill Road during an upcoming Select Board meeting.

Legislative goals

He said of his priorities if elected, I support public transportation. I want to see North Benningtons train station become a hub for local transit leaving and getting around Bennington. Trains should be making regular commuter stops right here in town, from North Bennington to Burlington, and to Rensselaer. I want to join Representative Corcoran in demanding that Bennington join our brave little state in being accessible to commuter rail transit.

He added, I would also like to fight for towns to be more inclusive for folks with disabilities, particularly during town meeting day. I would like to get Vermont to join California in passing a resolution demanding that our congressional delegation work to allow people with disabilities who receive [Supplemental Security Income] to get married without losing their benefits.

Edelson said he would like to work toward tax reform with respect to education, and to address homelessness and the housing shortage in Vermont.

In addition, he said, I am pro choice, pro-LGBTQ+, and support the principle of a well-regulated militia made up of responsible gun owners (not to say I support paramilitary activities which aim to harm our people). I support our Bill of Rights.

He also would make addressing the impacts of climate change and the opioid addiction crisis in the state priorities.

Edelson has a campaign website and has a campaign Facebook page.
BENNINGTON  A two-day trial at the Bennington courthouse this week brought focus to exactly where the moving line falls in ensuring the safety of the community with the rights and responsibilities of an individual suffering from a mental illness charged with violent crimes.

Miles Hall, 41, stood trial on several counts stemming from a June 2022 incident in Bennington. The charges included several counts of criminal threatening, stalking, and unlawful trespass into a residence. One of the crimes was charged as a hate crime, a crime whose conduct was maliciously motivated by the victims perceived gender identity or sexual orientation.

According to police affidavits and witness statements at trial, on June 17th, 2022, Hall stalked and threatened a family member with death. Police also accused Hall of threatening several members of the community, including a Bennington judge and Benningtons states attorney, with violence and death.

That same evening, a neighbor seated at her kitchen table noticed Hall staring at her through her kitchen window. According to witness testimony, Hall opened a screen door without knocking and just stared at me. Hall then walked into the kitchen in a manic state, refusing to leave after being asked and threatening several times to kill her. Hall also verbally abused a male nurse with homophobic insults and threatened to harm him as well.

During the two-day trial, it was revealed that Hall had severe bipolar disorder and was in a manic state at the time of these incidents. A later report concluded that Hall was legally competent to stand trial.

After a two-hour deliberation, a jury found Hall not guilty by reason of insanity. He was released but faces a possible hospitalization hearing in the near future.

The jury seemed to buy into expert witness testimony that, although Hall was found competent at the time of his evaluation, he was in a manic state due to his bipolar condition at the time of the incident and was not responsible for his actions. Dr. Margaret Bolton, who independently interviewed Hall and was working for the defense, felt that Hall was unaware at the time and, in her expert opinion, did not have the reasoning or capacity to be held accountable for knowing his criminal responsibility.

The case exposes societal issues frequently pitting the legal and moral rights of the mentally ill against the protection and safety of the community.

This was needlessly overcharged, Halls defense attorney and long-time mental health advocate Robert Appel said. In this case, the court-appointed psychiatrist found my client competent to stand trial only once he was out of his manic phase, after he was being treated and was stable. At the time of these incidents, my client was in full-bloom mania, delusional, psychotic. Like many in our communities, Hall wanted to do the best he could to be a good citizen, but the disease gets in their way. We are criminalizing mental health. It happens over and over again. Something is terribly wrong.

According to Appel, its not just prosecutors. There are systemic gaps in services for people with mental illness that allow these things to happen more than they should.

This is not a politically powerful constituency," Appel said. They tend not to have money, they cant work because of the illness, and theyre basically powerless. Its not something governments want to spend money on. They talk about it, but they dont do it. These people either end up in the street or jail. The answer is not criminalizing their uncontrollable behavior in the middle of a crisis.

Appel feels that more robust funding for community-based mental health services coupled with reducing the stigma, labels, and perceptions by the general public and the legal community, and not immediately bringing these cases to prosecution as a knee-jerk reaction, will go a long way in solving the issue.

We need places other than emergency rooms for these people to go, Appel said. There needs to be a broader commitment to respond before they go into full-blown psychosis.

I would agree with Mr. Appel up to the point that prosecution isnt the answer, said Erica Marthage, Bennington County states attorney. We havent spent the money that is needed on treatment, but I have to be concerned with the safety of the community and what happens with individuals who might not have the capacity to conform their behaviors to a safe society. The person who is victimized or injured is no less traumatized by the offense because the person is mentally ill, insane, or incompetent.

Marthage feels that those victims can, in many cases, be more traumatized because theres nothing her office can do after someone is found mentally ill. According to Marthage, prosecutors are precluded from using many of the traditional tools they normally use in those cases after a finding of no competency or insanity. That responsibility falls entirely to the Vermont Department of Mental Health, which, she says, does not consider public safety in its evaluations.

The only options available now, according to States Attorney Jared Bianchi, the prosecutor in the Hall case, is either a very short hospitalization order or an order of non-hospitalization, which directs the mentally ill individual to see a designated mental health agency.

Those orders do not have any teeth and are very time-limited, Bianchi said. There is no public safety consideration beyond that individuals mental health need."

Marthage said her office has been advocating for a mental health board that can look at every case and a dedicated forensic, court-related process that would include a forensic facility. Her team is working on a bill, S-192, that would create that facility and process but does not fix the immediate problem. Even in Halls case, if he is ordered hospitalized, it could be just a matter of weeks before he is released back into the community with the possibility of relapse and the ongoing safety concerns to the general public. Its the same for more violent, sometimes lethal offenders as well.

According to the National Institute of Health, individuals with a severe mental illness who fall through the cracks or are non-adherent to treatment are at a high risk of committing grave acts of violence, especially on family members. Untreated profound mental illness is particularly significant in cases of homicide.

Many of those individuals with mental illness face an uphill battle when trying to access mental health treatment. Many do not receive the appropriate and timely treatment needed. Budget cuts in funding for public health and mental health in many cities further put people with mental illness in situations where they are involved in criminal activity.

We are the ones responsible for public safety, Marthage said. We dont get to say that this might not be the best tool. Its the only tool we have right now.

The system is so underfunded that theres really not much supervision, Appel said.

When asked what he might say to those victims and their families who have to deal with the aftermath of these incidents, Appel paused, then reiterated that he believes more robust resources and support would cut down on the violence that we see.

I feel for people who are harmed by untreated mentally ill people, Appel said. There are just a lot of people who are not getting what they need and acting out in bad ways. That needs to change.

Philosophically, we are just not there, Marthage said. Were not even having those conversations. Just think about some of the major crimes weve recently heard about, school shootings and mass shootings. We always hear that these individuals have significant mental illnesses. We are constantly struggling with the best outcome for everyone involved in these cases, she said. That cant happen when everyone enters their respective corners.
What do cows and virtual reality art have in common? They're ways AI is being used in the Berkshires
Recently, The Eagle had a couple of stories that brought back my baby boomer memories. These were about Pittsfields urban renewal and improving access from the Jubilee Hill area to the West Street businesses.

The first article featured a story about 200 Pittsfield buildings that were razed in the late 1960s and early 1970s during the citys Jubilee urban renewal activities. One of the most talked about of these buildings has been the Union Station, the citys beautiful Beaux-Arts brick and marble train terminal.

To this day older baby boomers still claim what a shame it is that this building was not saved. However, with very little train service in Pittsfield in the 1960s, it was too expensive to maintain, and no developer came forward to repurpose the structure.

The station was built in 1914 for $300,000 and located where the current Big Y market is on West Street. The day after the new station opened, contractors began to knock down an older 47-year-old terminal next to it. Few of us knew about this older and smaller station that was half the size of the new one. With the increasing demands for train transportation in the 1900s, it became inadequate.

Trains first came through Pittsfield in 1841 and the very first station, a wooden one, was located near North Street and Columbus Avenue. In 1866, the older of the two brick stations was built at a new location on West Street next to the train tracks there.

This space needed for this terminal required some redirection of the street. Until then, West Street had been a straight line westerly from Park Square all the way out to where Berkshire Community College is now. The city had to make a short connecting street that started on West Street near Center Street and curved around the train station to join the original West Street at an intersection after the railroad overpass.

This short section was named New West Street. A small part of the original West Street remained to the right of the intersection and went up the hill to Francis Avenue. In 1967, during urban renewal, the city officially made that short piece an extension of Francis Avenue and also changed the name of New West Street to West Street (This explains the current curved West Street and the left turn at the intersection.)

The construction of the new Union Station in 1914 brought two other changes to the area around it that also remained until the terminal was razed. The first of these was a steel footbridge that went from the higher elevation of Francis Avenue and crossed over the railroad tracks to link the city's West Side neighborhoods to the new station.

This pedestrian bridge was constructed by the Boston and Albany (B & A) Railroad primarily for the convenience of potential passengers. An earlier footbridge had been constructed on the site in 1873 for the older train station, but it became unsafe and needed replacement.

Thus in 1913, while the newer station was being built, the B & A Railroad added the new steel footbridge which was 150 feet long and 10 feet wide with three flights of stairs and two landings. The bridge opened in December 1914, four months after the opening of the new train station.

Over the years this bridge was well used. One of the biggest crowds to cross it was on Aug. 4, 1938, when hundreds of youngsters (and parents) came for a three-minute view of 9-year-old movie star, Shirley Temple, on a train stop at the station.

On Oct. 27, 1948, the footbridge was closed for the first time when President Harry Truman addressed 7,000 people from a platform at Union Station. (This was Pittsfields first presidential visit since a trolley car hit a horse carriage carrying President Theodore Roosevelt in September 1902.)

In January 1960, the Boston and Albany Railroad informed the city that it would be abandoning the footbridge as almost no one crossed it for the limited train service available then. However, the city found that many West Siders did use the bridge to reach businesses, schools, parades, events, etc. Subsequently, Pittsfield took over ownership of the bridge and allocated $6,700 for needed repairs.

When the federal government provided funding for urban renewal, Pittsfield eliminated the footbridge along with Union Station in 1968. In the urban renewal efforts, the city designed new roadwork and created a stairway to replace the need for another footbridge to reach West Side neighborhoods. A small part of the footbridge was recycled as a walkway at one of the businesses in the old Berkshire Woolen Mill complex off Pecks Road.

The second change that was planned during the construction of Union Station was an attractive park near the train station. This park was to be placed where CVS and the Berkshire Carousel are now located.

It took city leaders until 1925 to create the park, but in a different location. It was developed on a small strip of land directly in front of the train station with a couple of benches surrounded by trees.

The park was named the Zenas Crane Memorial Park for the third generation president of the Crane & Co. of Dalton, who was a generous local philanthropist. I recall sitting there many times with my parents as we awaited the arrival of Boston relatives on the trains.

In 1967, when the urban renewal demolitions began, the Pittsfield Housing Authority bought the park for $105,000 from the city and bulldozed it to make space for a new Adams Super Market (now the Big Y). The city leaders had vowed to replace this park with a larger one, which never occurred.

In 1991, the city administration proposed to establish the memorial park again at Center and West streets and even budgeted $32,000 for the work. However, it wasnt until 1998 that there was recognition of the original park, some 30 years after the park had been bulldozed.

The 1925 plaque honoring Zenas Crane was placed on a large boulder near the new headquarters of Greylock Federal Credit Union. A formal rededication ceremony for the plaque was held at this site with many members of the Crane family present. Still, a park had not been created as had been planned during urban renewal.

The Eagle had recently reported on the city of Pittsfields proposed plans for a parklet on Francis Avenue and the refurbishing of the steps for West Siders to reach the Big Y and CVS businesses.

It would be a plus to also include an attractive park off of West Street for residents to access as it once existed and was proposed during the urban renewal efforts. Interestingly, such a park had also been in the original plan of the nearby Berkshire Carousel.
PITTSFIELD  The citys oldest municipal building  the former City Hall at 43 East St.  may serve as the new home for portions of the Pittsfield Police Department.

Under a plan that has been in the works for nearly a year, the departments detective bureau and administrative offices would move from the current police headquarters at 39 Allen St. into the building, known as the Old Town Hall, which has been vacant in recent years, Finance Director Matt Kerwood said. For decades, the city had leased the building to Berkshire Bank.

Director of Building Maintenance Brian Filliaut said that plans are still in the design phases. Early assessments show the move would likely require the renovation of the heating and ventilation system, some interior changes and the addition of a lift compliant with the American with Disabilities Act.

Mayor Peter Marchetti said he hopes the project could be completed within a year  though other city staff are hopeful that work on the building can be completed ahead of that schedule.

The city in recent years has been searching for a new location to house the Police Department, which is struggling to operate out of its aging and cramped headquarters, which was built in 1939. Department leaders have said the aging building isn't designed to handle the current size of the police force or the wiring needs for the kinds of technology used by officers.

Former Police Chief Michael Wynn pushed hard for the city to make strides in finding and designing a new space for the department. That effort got as far as an initial cost estimate  $55 million  in 2021 but no further.

The plan came to light during Tuesday's meeting of the City Council, when Councilor Alisa Costa noted that the former City Hall building at 43 East St. was missing from a list of city-owned properties.

Filliaut said the ommission was an oversight because the city only recently has resumed conducting maintenance on the property. When Costa asked about current plans for the space, Filliaut mentioned the Police Department shift.

"The Police Department really needs [the building] for expansion because they're just thrown on top of each other in the present building," he told the Eagle Wednesday. "In order to get them over there, and there's a lot of upgrades we have to do."

The building, which was built in 1832, served as the center of city government until the current City Hall building opened in 1968. It now has a listing on the National Register of Historic Places. That means that when design plans are concrete, the city will need to present them to both the Pittsfield Historical Commission and state Historical Commission for approval.

The city hasnt occupied the building since 1968 when a failing building inspection forced city departments to seek a new home. Former Mayor Remo Del Gallo asked and received approval from the state Legislature to offer a 30-year lease to any developer who was willing to front the renovation costs on the piece of city history.

In 1969, the Berkshire Bank signed the 30-year lease. The original terms of the lease, allowed the city to maintain ownership of the building in exchange for the bank covering nearly $230,000 of renovation costs and handling all maintenance needs. Kerwood called that agreement and ongoing lease of the building a handshake deal.

The bank operated a branch location at the site for decades until 2014, when it closed the branch and moved Berkshire Insurance Group into the space. The group left the building during the initial outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, and the bank sold the insurance group to Brown and Brown in 2021. Last year, the group paid out the remainder of an eight-year lease with the city.

Kerwood said it was at that point that the administration of former Mayor Linda Tyer began discussing new uses for the building. Requests for proposals drew the attention of a couple of organizations, but nothing truly materialized out of those conversations, Kerwood said.

Around the time that interim Police Chief Thomas Dawley took on leadership of the department, the Tyer administration decided the best use would be to have portions of the department move into the building.

We all recognize that this is not the best solution in terms of the long-term strategy for the police station, Kerwood said. But we have this building, it's available to us and we're trying to address the situation with the Police Department the best that we can.
PITTSFIELD  A long-awaited decision from the state has given the Pittsfield Public Schools a major windfall: an additional $2.4 million in state aid for its upcoming budget.

And while Pittsfield still faces a $1.6 million budget deficit  and a reduction in locally funded staff and federally funded positions  the state funding is expected to alleviate some proposed cuts to general and special education staff, school adjustment counselors and paraprofessionals.

Prior to this week, the district found itself just three low-income students short of a qualifying for an additional $2.4 million from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. But Kristen Behnke, assistant superintendent for business and finance, announced Wednesday that she identified a technical error that had caused an undercount of roughly 1,500 low-income students across the state  including 11 in the Pittsfield Public Schools.

Those figures will be adjusted in the state Legislatures upcoming budget proposals.

Its good news for school districts across the commonwealth, Behnke said.

Superintendent Joseph Curtis credited Behnke for her resolve, without which the technical error would not have been discovered and the district would be in a more challenging position for continuing budget talks.

The current fiscal 2025 budget proposal gives the schools an $80 million allotment from the city, an increase of 3.5 percent from the current year, but a figure that does not adequately offset rising transportation costs and contractual obligations.

The districts line-item budget proposal outlined cuts to the equivalent of 43 full-time employees that were locally funded from the current year. Another 44 full-time employees funded by federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief dollars, or ESSER, will also be cut.

Administrators did not share how many positions will remain intact because of the state aid on Wednesday night. Based on a previous budget presentation, the new influx should slightly lessen the blow at every school besides Allendale Elementary and Conte Community schools.

Later in the meeting, School Committee members weighed in with their recommendations for the proposed budget after Curtis provided more details on a central office shakeup anticipated to reduce costs.

The district plans to reduce its curriculum department to 4.5 full-time employees, down from seven full-time employees this year, by cutting its professional development coordinator; reducing its arts integration coordinator to a half-time position; and consolidating two positions into a data and assessment coordinator.

William Garrity, the committees clerk, advocated for keeping the arts integration coordinator position as intact as possible, suggesting that grant funding could be used to fund the rest of the position later on. He also posed questions about how much money would be needed to increase the number of school adjustment counselors present in the districts middle and high schools.

Several members expressed concern over a proposal to consolidate the deputy superintendent and curriculum director positions into a single role. William Cameron, the committees chair, said that an operations position, like the deputy superintendents, has been in place in the schools since at least the 1960s. He was concerned that if it was cut now it might be difficult to get back.

And Vice Chair Daniel Elias spoke about his takeaways from the March 27 budget presentation, and his discussions with principals facing cuts in the schools.

Elias said he asked each of the principals which position they would save if they had the chance, and he was particularly struck that all four principals at Herberg Middle School, Reid Middle School, Taconic High School and Pittsfield High School had the same answer: school adjustment counselors.

This day and age, you cant get four people to agree on much of anything, Elias said. The fact that they all agreed on this, there was no hesitation, and it was their top priority was telling.
Local advocates say a projected 12-year timeline is too long, and take issue with a conclusion from the study about the cost-benefit analysis of installing passenger rail serve to the northern tier. Theyre underestimating what this can do for Western Massachusetts."
Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data.
Dalton Delan can be reached at berkshireeaglereels@gmail.com and @UnspinRoom on X. His Eagle Reels conversations can be found on YouTube .
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Light blue symbolizes China's celestial pursuit from art to moon exploration

10:32, April 12, 2024 By Wu Chaolan ( People's Daily Online

In Chinese culture, light blue is more than just a color  it's a profound expression, a sentiment interwoven with the nation's identity. Historically used by poets and artists to convey their deep affection for the cosmos, particularly the moon, this hue has evolved to symbolize China's bold strides in space exploration, linking artistic tradition to cosmic ambition.

Throughout history, light blue in Chinese art captured the moon's essence, symbolizing peace and curiosity. This tranquil hue, reflecting the night sky's vastness, served as a medium to revere and contemplate the celestial. The cultural connection extends to astronomical observations noted in ancient texts like the "Book of Changes" and is celebrated in festivals such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, where moon worship underscores unity and prosperity. Esteemed poets Li Bai and Du Fu celebrated the moon in their works, embedding this celestial body in the nation's spiritual and intellectual fabric.

The Long March-8 Y3 carrier rocket, carrying the Queqiao-2 relay satellite, blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, March 20, 2024. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Mao)

This deep-rooted lunar connection has strongly influenced China's modern space endeavors. The historical appreciation of the moon's light blue now inspires the nation's lunar exploration programs, transforming artistic passion into a scientific pursuit. China's lunar missions, particularly the ambitious fourth phase of its exploration program, are laying the groundwork for the International Lunar Research Station, with missions like Chang'e-4 through Chang'e-8 paving the way for future exploration.

China's lunar exploration has entered a new era with the launch of the Queqiao-2 relay satellite, a critical component for Earth-Moon communication, signaling a major leap in the fourth phase of its lunar exploration efforts. Named after the legendary magpie bridge in Chinese mythology, this satellite serves as a metaphorical bridge, connecting not only Earth and the moon but also encouraging connections between China and the international scientific community.

China is committed to international collaboration in space exploration, recognizing the moon's universal value and heritage. The country actively seeks partnerships with other nations to further its cosmic ambitions. A recent example of this collaborative spirit is the signing of two memorandums of understanding with Thailand, which focus on joint efforts in the peaceful exploration of outer space and participation in the International Lunar Research Station project. These partnerships showcase China's approach to space exploration, which is based on cooperation, knowledge sharing, and collective advancement in understanding the universe.

Photo shows an illustrative rendering of China's Queqiao-2 relay satellite, designed for Earth-Moon communications. (Photo courtesy of the China National Space Administration)

China's ethos of collaboration in space exploration is not just about advancing its own ambitions but also about contributing to a global community dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. Through partnerships with international space agencies and research institutions, China is sharing its achievements and challenges in lunar exploration, fostering a model of cooperation that mirrors the interconnectedness symbolized by the color light blue in traditional Chinese culture.

The transition from the artistic use of light blue to represent the moon to its symbolic association with China's lunar missions illustrates a blend of cultural heritage and technological innovation. This evolution reflects China's ongoing dedication to cosmic exploration, bridging the ancient cultural respect for the moon with contemporary scientific endeavors.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Wu Chengliang)
Six pump jacks stand outside of Cotulla in the Eagle Ford Shale formation in this file photo. A Cotulla-based oil field maintenance and repair company filed for bankruptcy protection April 4 only to get court permission to dismiss the case eight days later. Carolyn Van Houten/San Antonio Express-News A tanker truck drives along the access road of Interstate 35 near Eagle Ford Drive in Cotulla in this file photo. A Cotulla-based oil field maintenance and repair company filed for bankruptcy protection April 4 only to get court permission to dismiss the case eight days later. Kin Man Hui/San Antonio Express-News In this file photo, a drilling rig in the Eagle Ford Shale formation near Cotulla is shown. A Cotulla-based oil field maintenance and repair company filed for bankruptcy protection April 4 only to get court permission to dismiss the case eight days later. JOHN DAVENPORT/SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS A flaring stack burns off excess gas in La Salle County near Cotulla in this file photo. A Cotulla-based oil field maintenance and repair company filed for bankruptcy protection April 4 only to get court permission to dismiss the case eight days later. Kin Man Hui/San Antonio Express-News

A company typically seeks bankruptcy protection to remain in business, but an oil field pipeline construction business that operates in the Eagle Ford Shale formation did the opposite so it could stay afloat.

Big River Contractors LLC, based in Cotulla, obtained a court order Friday dismissing its bankruptcy eight days after it sought refuge from creditors by filing a Chapter 11 petition under a subchapter of the bankruptcy code designed for small-business debtors.

The company outlined its reasons for wanting the case dismissed  among them that it stopped the use of a financing mechanism called factoring that Big River relies on  in a court filing ahead of Fridays hearing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in San Antonio.

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If this case is not dismissed, Debtor has no way of paying its employees which will cause irreparable harm to the employees and effectively end Debtors operations, it said.

The family-owned company  which started in 2018 and has more than 65 employees, according to its website  operates in the Eagle Ford, Permian Basin and other shale plays. It says it offers a wide range of services, including pipeline and facility construction, fabrication, engineering, maintenance and consulting.

It listed a little more than $1 million in assets and about $1.8 million in liabilities in bankruptcy papers. Its revenue has fallen precipitously, from $8.1 million in 2022 to $5.3 million in 2023. This year, it had generated a profit of almost $40,000 on $759,284 in revenue before its bankruptcy filing.

Factoring arrangement

Big River disclosed that it has been factoring receivables through an informal arrangement with a factoring company called Top of the Town Marketing, also known as Crunch, and the companys primary lender, Alliance Bank Central Texas.

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Factoring is a way for a business to quickly receive cash  as a percentage of an invoice to a customer  rather than wait for the customer to pay its bill. Under its factoring arrangement, Big River said, Crunch fronted the company 85% of an amount invoiced to a customer, which would send its payment directly to the bank.

Once the customer paid, Crunch would pay the remaining amount to Big River, minus the factoring companys fee for its service. Crunch would withhold 1% if full payment was received within 30 days, 2% if received within 45 days or 3% for anything after 45 days.

Due to the filing of this bankruptcy case, factoring has ceased, Big River said in a Wednesday court filing.

Big River needed the factoring arrangement to continue so it could make payroll Friday, it said. However, that agreement was not put in writing.

That prompted Chief U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Craig Gargotta to express concern about the propriety of approving a factor agreement that was not reduced to writing.

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A company that files for Chapter 11, which allows a debtor to reorganize its debts and pay creditors over time, must get court approval to dismiss its case.

One of things the court has to look at is whether or not, at this point in time, (if) its better for the creditors to convert the case to Chapter 7 as opposed to dismissing the case, notwithstanding the fact that the court is sympathetic to the necessity of maintaining employees and paying wage claims, Gargotta said. So thats why I had you go through this exercise of filing the motion to dismiss the case.

It wasnt just to provide you with a little heartache, the judge said.

Ray Battaglia, a San Antonio bankruptcy lawyer not involved in the case, described the motion to dismiss so early in the case as unusual.

What it smells like is there was a little bit of brinksmanship or bad communication, he said. Usually you tell (a factoring company), Look, guys, if you dont fund or to continue to fund, Ill have no choice but to file bankruptcy or alternatively, the debtors dead if I dont file bankruptcy. So usually thats kind of an ultimatum that transpires before you get to the point of actually filing the bankruptcy.

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And maybe that happened and maybe the creditor just said, I dont believe you. And then it happened, and someone blinked, he added. They said, Well, well factor. 

No opposition

Filing the motion to dismiss gave Big Rivers creditors an opportunity to oppose it at the hearing. None did.

Steve Burton, an attorney for Alliance Bank, which has a lien on all of Big Rivers assets, said that  to the extent it could  the bank would allow the company to receive funds so it could make payroll.

It is my understanding that the debtor and the factoring party have agreed that it if the case was dismissed, that the factor will resume and they will have the funds in their account to make payroll, Burton told the judge. So were going with that understanding.

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The factoring company was identified as Top of the Town in the motion to dismiss. No one for the factoring company spoke during the hearing.

Prior to its motion to dismiss, Big River had filed a motion for approval of a $150,000 sale of 15.5 acres its owns in Arkansas. The request became moot as a result of the bankruptcys dismissal.

Joshua Gordon, a Houston attorney representing Big River, didnt respond to a request for comment.
PAMPA  On the second day of the Smokehouse Creek fire, Dale Jenkins was looking out his window.

He could see the wispy white smoke passing over the hill on the horizon of his Canadian ranch. A squad of local volunteer firefighters had worked all night to contain the fire. Jenkins, a lifelong rancher in the Texas Panhandle, had witnessed enough wildfires to know this wasnt over.

It was too windy. The ground was too hot. This was just the beginning.

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The Panhandle rancher and his family hurried to save more than 100 heads of cattle that were to be sold for breeding in two weeks for more than $300 per head. Each cow needed to be protected.

Jenkins personally wrangled 24 cows and 11 calves into a fenced-in area on his land. One stubborn calf refused to comply. Not long after Jenkins thought his cows were safe, the cattle panicked and jumped over the fence.

Jenkins was one of several blue jeans and boots-wearing ranchers and landowners who recounted their stories last week to state lawmakers, who were in Pampa, a Panhandle town of 16,000, to investigate the Smokehouse Creek fire, the largest in state history.

The hearings  meant to help understand how the Smokehouse Creek fire burned more than 1 million acres and killed two people and approximately 10,000 cattle earlier this year  voiced the fear Panhandle residents have about their future.

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Jenkins and his peers stressed the fires hidden costs.

Historic homes and ranches burned to the ground  literally museums to our region and way of life. Genetics bred into cows over decades, and generations have been lost. Historic trees used as land markers by the early pioneers are gone, said Andy Holloway, a Hemphill County extension agent for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. This is the hidden cost that deeply affects our ranchers and way of life.

The agriculture industry, a significant driver of the states economy, was already facing pressures from a prolonged and widespread drought. Ranchers have been forced to manage smaller herds, contributing to decreased beef production nationally. According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, over 85% of the states cattle population is located on ranches in the Panhandle. In 2021, agriculture accounted for 9% of Texas gross state product, adding $186.1 billion to the states economy, according to Texas A&Ms AgriLife Extension report.

A special Texas legislative committee questions a panel of experts about the Smokehouse Creek fire during a public meeting on April 2 in Pampa. The committee, which conducted its investigation over three days of hearings, is expected to publish its report by May 1. Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune/Maria Crane

A member of the public listens during a special Texas House committee hearing on the Panhandle wildfires in early April 2024 in Pampa. Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune/Maria Crane

Derrick Holdstock of Western Fire Resources presents a slideshow on the Smokehouse Creek fire, the largest in state history, to the special Texas House committee during hearing on the Panhandle wildfires in early April 2024 in Pampa. Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune/Maria Crane

The fires have left little food or water for livestock. Property fences and equipment are gone. Hundreds of miles of power lines have burned, leaving no electricity to pump water from wells farmers rely on to hydrate their cattle. And it will take years for the land to recover.

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Landowners renting out their space for hunting will see multiple seasons go by without revenue. Tourism will also suffer, as the countryside has been reduced to burnt limbs and gray and black ground.

Its unclear whether businesses can recoup these costs, as most federal recovery grants are meant for infrastructure and buildings, not lost revenue.

Locals in the Panhandle region believe the estimated number of cattle dead or missing is probably too low, as many suffered burns that cant be treated. And for ranchers like Jenkins, the loss of cattle is losing a part of their familys legacy. He created his herd from a heifer gifted to him by his late father in the 1980s.

When we lost cows, we didnt just lose animals. We lost family, Jenkins told the committee.

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As the fire advanced toward his home, Jenkins knew it was too late to wrangle all the escaped cows from the pen. Instead of chasing them down, he hopped into his tractor, equipped with a massive hose connected to a water tank, and greeted the fire.

Jenkins wife, Brenda, hurried to evacuate the house with the rest of the family  including her mother, mother-in-law, two daughters, four grandchildren and multiple pets.

Before the family fled, Brenda scanned the horizon one last time for her husband.

Dale Jenkins, far right, owner of Littlerobe Angus Ranch, recounts his story to the special Texas House committee investigating the Panhandle wildfires during a hearing on April 3, 2024, in Pampa. Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune/Maria Crane

You could look out the window and see the fire getting bigger and bigger and bigger, and I just kept my eyes on the flashing light of the tractor, Brenda told the Texas Tribune.

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With the water sprayer on the front of his tractor, Jenkins fought the fire with several others in hopes of keeping some of the land safe.

Its the most surreal thing, and Ive experienced this a couple of times. Youd be out there fighting this fire, and youd be all by yourself  not a soul around. But youve got the light from the fire line. And youre working at it and concentrating so hard, and finally, you get to the end, you finally put out the last flames, and then its just totally dark and totally quiet, Jenkins said.

The family was able to save most of its adult cattle. More than 50 bulls and 40 heifers were later sold. But, only six calves were saved. Five of them were severely burned. A woman in Childress, three hours away from Canadian, who had two young cows in their milking phase, took on these orphaned cattle for Jenkins family.

Some of these little guys lost their ears and tails, and some of them have peeling burns, Jenkins said. We will try, but these orphaned calves will probably not work as breeding stock.

Dale Jenkins feeds Bobo from a bottle on April 3 at his ranch in Canadian in the Texas Panhandle. Bobo, who was found about 3 miles from Jenkins ranch, is his only calf that survived the wildfires there unscathed. Maria Crane/Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune

The pen in Canadian where Dale Jenkins wrangled 35 of his cattle as the wildfire in the Texas Panhandle approached now lays empty. Maria Crane/Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune

Youd be out there fighting this fire, and youd be all by yourself  not a soul around. But youve got the light from the fire line. And youre working at it and concentrating so hard, and finally, you get to the end, you finally put out the last flames, and then its just totally dark and totally quiet, rancher Dale Jenkins said about his experience fighting the wildfire that scorched much of the Texas Panhandle. Maria Crane/Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune

The only calf from this pen to escape unscathed was a calf named Bobo, which Jenkins believes was the baby cow that refused to enter the gate. The calfs mother didnt survive the fire. The family must bottle-feed Bobo for a while.

The tiny black cow represents the future.

The resilient spirit of the cowboy hat-wearing rancher is intertwined with Texas history. But witnesses, including several other ranchers and landowners, told lawmakers their neighbors are considering leaving the agricultural way of life after this last wildfire.
A 73-year-old American man made applications for passports in the names of two dead babies after he ran in to visa difficulties whilst doing business in Europe, a court has heard.

Cork Circuit Criminal Court heard evidence from Det Garda Padraig Hanley, of the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, who said that reports relating to Randolph Kirk Parker first came to their attention in 2017.

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In 2022, Mr Parker made an application from Amsterdam in Holland to renew an Irish passport in the name of Geoffrey Warbrook.

Det Garda Hanley said this application sparked an investigation as Geoffrey Warbrook was the name of a child who died in 1953 in Ireland when he was an infant.

Mr Parker was subsequently arrested on the 14th of September 2023 at the passport office in Cork where he appeared in person to renew a passport in the name of Philip Frank Morris.

Dt Garda Hanley said that Mr Parker had applied for a fast track passport in the name of Mr Morris in order to leave the country. At that time, gardai believed that the name of Mr Morris was his real identity.

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However, gardai subsequently established that Philip Morris was an Irish born infant who died in 1952.

We had two identities for this person and four passports were applied for. Two applications in the name of Philip Morris and two in the name of Geoffrey Warbrook. He had falsely obtained genuine Irish passports.

We had no idea who this person was. Numerous inquiries were carried out with the assistance of Interpol and the assistance of the US Embassy and Irish and international agencies.

He had an (US) arrest record from 1970 in Michigan and was identified as Randolph Parker.

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Parker has a date of birth of March 7th, 1951 and is a US national. His fingerprints were widely circulated following his arrest and he was identified with the assistance of the FBI and the US Embassy.

Interpol had also liaised with their 195 member countries in a bid to help gardai identify him.

Gardai had also been in touch with agencies in Ireland such as the RSA, the Residential Tenancies Board, the ESB and the VHI as they tried to establish the identity of the man.

Mr Parker held an Irish passport for three decades but only recently obtained a PPS number.

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Dt Garda Hanley said that the charge sheet was amended to reflect the true identity of the man. Mr Parker was remanded in custody and appeared before the district court on several occasions.

During one court appearance, he came into the dock with a Lee child thriller in his hand. No bail applications were made.

In February of this year Mr Parker was sent forward for sentence at Cork Circuit Criminal Court after he pleaded guilty to four counts of using false information to obtain passports and one count of possessing a false instrument.

Det Garda Hanley said that the false instrument referred to was an Irish drivers licence issued in 2011 in the name of Philip Morris.

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A charge relating to giving a false name to a member of An Garda Siochana following his arrest was struck out.

Det Garda Hanley told Judge Jonathan Dunphy that he interviewed Mr Parker on two occasions. He said that it was an unusual experience as whilst the pensioner did not co operate and refused to answer any queries he was not obstructive.

He was affable and articulate but refused to engage with the investigation.

Det Garda Hanley said that Mr Parker has no previous convictions that we are aware of.

We have very little (in the way of information.) He did previously hold a US passport in 1999. We believed he first entered Ireland in 1988 through Shannon Airport then travelled over Europe and lived in Amsterdam.

He had VHI here and a post office box at an address in Dublin and numerous friends all over Ireland who knew him by a different name entirely.

Det Garda Hanley previously told the court that they had spoken to the brother of the late Philip Morris who died at the age of four months in 1953.

He said that they also engaged with relatives of Mr Warbrook who also confirmed that he died as a young baby in the early 1950s.

Prosecuting barrister, Emmet Boyle, said that Mr Parker was anxious to have the matter dealt with and signed a plea of guilty at the earliest opportunity.

Defence barrister, Brendan Kelly, said that his client was a very affable, articulate intelligent man who was pleasant to deal with during the course of their consultations.

He has no familial connections in the jurisdiction. Friends knew him by an other identity. He (Parker) came to Europe in the 1980s for business activities and met a man who facilitated him (with the Irish passports).

He said that since he was remanded in custody, Parker has worked on his computer skills and in the library in Cork Prison. Det Garda Hanley said that he wasnt surprised to hear this as Parker was clearly a man of books.

Mr Kelly asked that a deduction be taken from the headline sentence for his client arising out of his signed plea.

He was also at all stages pleasant and co operated. His signed plea was of significant assistance and short circuited the entire proceeds. An enhanced deduction should be afforded. He entered a plea at the first opportunity.

Mr Kelly respectfully said that his clients sentence should be backdated to when he first entered custody on the 15th of September 2023.

He (Parker) has lived in the EU for some time but he is (still) effectively a foreign national with no familial connection. His time in custody will be difficult and egregious for him.

He said that his had applied for false passports after he encountered visa difficulties in the course of his business activities. Parker met a man with a knowledge of the Irish passport system who gave him certain advice the court heard.

Mr Parker was not required to speak during the short hearing. He was wearing a white shirt and a grey pants and grey hair tied back in a ponytail.

Judge Dunphy remanded Mr Parker in continuing custody to appear before Cork Circuit Criminal Court for sentencing on the 22nd of April next at 10.30am.
A small fire on a ship at the Belfast Harbour estate has been put out by firefighters.

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) responded to an incident in a Harland & Wolff dry dock at 5.17pm on Thursday.

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The fire occurred in a tank within the vessel that was being worked on by a shipyard subcontractor and the cause has been determined as accidental.

NIFRS are currently dealing with an incident within Belfast Harbour Estate. NIFRS have been in attendance since 17:17hrs on Thursday 11th April 2024.



There are approximately 40 firefighters in attendance dealing with the incident." pic.twitter.com/cIPvEP6wjp  Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (@NIFRSOFFICIAL) April 11, 2024 Advertisement

All crew on board the vessel were evacuated safely and no injuries have been reported, NIFRS added.

Fifty firefighters and four pumping appliances, one aerial and one foam appliance, a specialist rescue team and a marine team plus a number of supervisory officers responded to the incident.

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NIFRS worked closely with Harland & Wolff throughout the incident, committing NIFRS firefighters with breathing apparatus and water jets to extinguish the fire, a statement said.
Simon Harris has said becoming Taoiseach has been quite a rollercoaster.

In his first broadcast interview since taking up the top role at Government, Mr Harris also said that the recent Cabinet reshuffle was challenging.

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Asked about becoming Taoiseach, he said: Its been a little bit surreal. Look, its a great honour, its something that I find very humbling.

And Im conscious that Im one of only 16 people in Ireland to have the honour to have been the Taoiseach of this great country and that means a lot to me, means a lot to my family.

But Im also very conscious that politics is never about you the office holder  its about the difference you can make for people.

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New Fine Gael leader Simon Harris at Aras an Uachtarain meeting President Michael D Higgins. Photo: Damien Storan/PA

He said he first got involved in public life as a moody opinionated teenager campaigning for better school facilities for his brother with autism in Co Wicklow.

Mr Harris added: So to go from there to here, its been quite a rollercoaster. But, I intend to give it my all.

The Taoiseach was speaking to Keith Finnegan on his final day of broadcasting on Galway Bay FM.

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Asked if he found it challenging to undertake his recent reshuffle of Fine Gael portfolios in Government, Mr Harris said: Cabinet reshuffles are always quite challenging because you know everybody involved.

I mean, Ive been a member of the Dail now for 13 years, Ive been in the Cabinet for eight years and these people, many of them are your friends, you know them, you know their families, you know how good they are and how hard they work.

And what youre trying to have to do though is, youre trying to put together the best team you can.

Of course, youre conscious of a whole variety of things, geography and gender.

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But youre also conscious of the need to drive on and get the peoples business done.

An eventful day of meetings for the incoming Taoiseach @SimonHarrisTD in Brussels



Preparations well underway for his first #EUCO next week  pic.twitter.com/i0pwlgYFDp  Ireland In The EU (@IrelandRepBru) April 11, 2024 Advertisement

And I had set out a number of areas that I wanted to make real progress in, um, between now and the next election in March and I wanted to put the best team in place to deliver those priorities.

But yeah, its always a tense time and, look, Ive been through this as a minister.

Its always a tense time wondering: Will the phone ring and will I get a call from the Taoiseach and be asked to do a job?

But at the end of the day, outside the bubble we live in, people want to just know are you going to get on with fixing the issues that theyre facing in their own lives.

Mr Harris said his priorities were around making progress around small businesses as well as farming, law and order, safer streets and housing.

He added: Im gonna need a bit of time to do that but Im determined to hit the ground running.
A man who admitted filming himself carrying out vile sex acts on an infant boy, and who then shared the video footage with others via the kik social media platform, has been jailed for six years with the final two years suspended.

At Limerick Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Tom O'Donnell lifted reporting restrictions to allow the identification of the defendant, Jamie Marshall (35), a native of Limerick city.

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Marshall, who had 133 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to knowingly possessing child pornography, knowingly producing child pornography, knowingly distributing child pornography; defilement of a child; and using communication technology to facilitate the sexual exploitation of a child, on or before December 30th, 2020.

Judge ODonnell ordered that the specifics of Marshalls home address, where his parents continue to reside, not be reported after his barrister, senior counsel Brian McInerney told the court that his clients elderly parents were concerned their address would be published.

The mother of the child told the court she wished to waive her right to anonymity, however, the court ordered that the child could not be identified.

Judge ODonnell said Marshall was entitled to credit on his sentence for pleading guilty to all of the charges at the earliest opportunity, for fully co-operating with the Garda investigation, and for having been in custody awaiting sentence since May 2nd, 2023. He had not taken up bail.

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However, the judge said he had to impose an immediate custodial sentence, and he described Marshalls behaviour as appalling, vile, egregious, and despicable.

The judge added: It was depravity of the highest order with an infant child.

Charges

Marshall was facing a maximum life sentence for the defilement charge, a maximum sentence of five years for the possession charge, and up to 14 years on each of the other three charges, including producing child pornography, distributing child pornography and using communication technology to facilitate the sexual exploitation of a child.

Although he pleaded guilty to all of the charges, Marshall had denied in interviews with gardai that he had a sexual predilection for children. He told gardai the abuse occurred because he was taking cocaine and when he took this drug he became a creep.

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However, Brian McInerney SC, told the court that Marshall no longer blamed cocaine: He must accept what he did, no one is to blame but himself and he is deeply ashamed of his behaviour.

Marshall had filmed himself abusing the boy and uploaded the material to the kik platform under the pseudonym Honda22Civic.

When the material was uploaded, it quickly alerted the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children, who in turn tipped off Gardai, who in turn tracked down Marshall and identified the infant in mid-January 2021.

Marshall uploaded and shared 15 videos and two images on kik of sex acts involving children, including the infant boy, as well as images and videos of a number of underage girls that were shared with him by a third party whom Marshall did not identify.

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Marshall was identified by gardai in the videos with the boy because of distinctive and unique tattoos on his forearms. He had also used his email address to set up the Honda22Civic account.

I never thought my son would be violated in such a way

Reading a victim impact statement on behalf of her son, the woman told the court: I never thought that something like this would come to my family, I never thought my son would be violated in such a way, it was such a shock to me, my family and friends.

The woman said the abuse of her son had destroyed her mental health, and she had self-harmed, all because of what happened my son.

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The woman said she could not forgive the defendant for what he had done. I think about it every day. I would be more cautious about who I leave my son around because I can't trust anybody after this.

Speaking to reporters after Fridays sentence was delivered, the woman said she hoped that the Director of Public Prosecutions would appeal the terms of the sentence so that Marshall would spend longer in jail.

I was hoping for at least 10 years, because I am distraught by it. The woman said her son was now thriving with the support of his family circle.

He is a very happy child, he is very loveable, and he loves cuddles. He is in creche, starting junior infants in September, hes excited about that. He is actually such a pleasant, happy little child and he is very well behaved.

The woman said she wanted to thank kik, Gardai, and the US-based National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children for having flagged and helped unearth Marshalls actions.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help.
Micheal Martin has said there are very significant differences between Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein, but avoided ruling out a future coalition with the main opposition party.

The Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader said that policy has to be the bottom line and the party cannot go into government with Sinn Fein if it maintains positions such as its approach to the EU.

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He was speaking at the start of the 82nd Fianna Fail Ard Fheis conference in Dublin, where he said that the focus would be on the cost of living, public services and challenges for farmers.

Mr Martin accused Sinn Fein of being able to flip flop, U-turn to an alarming degree on various issues, including on whether to call for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador.

He said Sinn Fein was an anti-EU party that dont get the European Union, accusing it of antics this week on the EU migration pact that aims to overhaul the immigration system in Europe.

He said: As far as Im concerned, we cant go into government with Sinn Fein if it maintains policy positions like its maintained on Europe.

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I think well consult with the remainder of the party as well, and Im very clear that policy has to be the bottom line.

In an opening speech to Fianna Fail delegates on Friday evening, Mr Martin accused Sinn Fein of spending 90 per cent of their time attacking government parties in aggressive and often personal terms.

In the case of Sinn Fein, we have the most cynical and destructive opposition in our history, he said.

Covering other issues, Mr Martin said his party was building a strong record of delivery in the coalition government with Fine Gael and the Green Party.

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He said that in four years, the government had delivered more homes than in the previous nine years combined, but admitted we must, and we are going further, and that there is much more to be done.
Taoiseach Simon Harris has said that the point at which Ireland and Spain can recognise the State of Palestine is coming much closer.

He made the comments following a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at Government Buildings in Dublin on Friday afternoon.

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The pair discussed the recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Mr Harris saying that Ireland would move with Spain and other EU countries when the time is right.

On Tuesday, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he is bringing a formal proposal to the Government after working with other countries on a joint declaration to formally recognise Palestinian statehood.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez speaks to the media. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA.

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It is the second time Mr Harris and Mr Sanchez have met this week, after the Taoiseach travelled to Brussels on Thursday.

I want this afternoon to pay tribute to all those working so hard to try to bring about an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages, including through the talks in Cairo, facilitated by the US, Qatar and Egypt, Mr Harris said.

At last months meeting of the European Council, Ireland and Spain, together with Malta and Slovenia, said that we were ready to do so when the conditions are right.

Let me this evening say our assessment is that that point is coming much closer and we would like to move together in doing so.

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The people of Palestine have long sought the dignity of their own country and sovereignty.

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA.

A home that like Ireland and Spain can take its place amongst the nations of the Earth.

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When we move forward, we would like to do so with as many others as possible to lend weight to the decision and to send the strongest message.

The people of Israel deserve a secure and peaceful future. So do the people of Palestine. Equal sovereignty, equal respect, in a region where people of all faiths and all traditions live together in peace.

Mr Harris also said it was possible to condemn the Hamas attack on October 7th and call for the unconditional release of the remaining hostages, and to also want to see a two-state political solution.

This week, Israels ambassador to Ireland Dana Erlich claimed the Governments push to recognise Palestinian statehood is rewarding terrorism.

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Its entirely possible to call out the horrors that the State of Israel suffered at the hands of Hamas whilst also saying that there must now be an immediate cessation of violence, Mr Harris said.

The scenes that were seeing in Gaza in terms of hunger, thirst, mutilation, death of innocent children, women, men, the destruction of so much civilian infrastructure, hospitals, schools, homes, has to stop.

The only way forward here is for a political peace process that brings about the two-state solution for which Ireland has been so long committed, as I know Spain has as well.

Speaking after the bi-lateral meeting, Mr Sanchez said he wanted to thank Mr Harris and his predecessor Leo Varadkar for their leadership.

We need leaders who are committed to peace, justice, human rights, and welfare  inside and outside of European boundaries, he added.

We know that the situation in the Gaza Strip is terrible and that we cant see signs of improvement.

He said that Ireland and Spain agree on the urgency for an immediate ceasefire and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza as well as the release of hostages in Gaza.

We also agree that it is vital to reach a political solution that brings peace and stability to the region and that solution must recognise the living together of two states, Palestinian and Israeli states, he added.

We, internationally, will not be able to help Palestine unless we recognise its existence and so we, both countries, have agreed to recognise Palestine as a state publicly, as soon as possible, when conditions are right.

We commit to support the recognition of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations for two reasons.

First to give a message of hope, hope for the millions of people in Gaza, Palestine and in the region who are suffering.

Secondly, because we want to show the world that in Europe, there are people who defend the international rules and order in all cases across the board.

He said he wants to see a peace process that will bring prosperity and peace to the Israelis and Palestinians.

As of now, we cannot outline a timeline, were in uncharted territory but in these circumstances if we continue on the current path it will bring more conflict, more hatred, and more problems so we have to move forward, Mr Sanchez added.
Ryanair has issued High Court proceedings claiming a search of its premises by officials from competition authorities in Ireland and Italy, accompanied by gardai, was conducted with an alleged invalid warrant.

The airline is asking the court to quash the warrant, issued by the Dublin Metropolitan District Court last March 8th, on grounds claiming that the issuing judge was allegedly wrongly not informed about two key Italian rulings that it says supports its position that it is not abusing its dominant market position.

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It alleges the Italian competition authority, Autorita Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM), and its Irish counterpart, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), breached its fundamental rights by failing to tell the District Court judge about relevant information and by acting on a warrant that allegedly contained errors.

The court should declare that the material seized is, either in whole or in part, tainted by illegality and is inadmissible and should not have been removed from Ireland, Ryanair contends.

Thirty officers of both authorities and gardai conducted an unannounced inspection of Ryanairs premises in Swords, north Dublin, on March 8th.

The CCPC said the search was conducted on behalf of the AGCM. The Italian authority announced in September 2023 that it had opened an investigation into Ryanair for possible abuse of a dominant (market) position.

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In an affidavit, Ryanairs head of competition, Eoin Kealy, said the company has cooperated with the AGCM throughout its investigation, which arose out of claims from two Italian travel agency associations and a consumer association.

They allege Ryanairs model of direct online sale of its tickets to consumers constitutes an abuse of a dominant position under Italian and EU law, he said.

Ryanair precludes travel agencies from purchasing tickets via its website, where the lowest fares are available, and directs them instead to a global distribution system, he said.

The Italian associations allege this policy jeopardises the performance of effective competition in the tourism services market to the detriment of travel agencies, leading to negative effects for their consumers, he said.

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Ryanair entirely rejects those allegations and is supported in its position by two decisions of the Court of Appeal of Milan in cases against the airline, Mr Kealy said.

Documents

Last January, that court found Ryanairs conduct in reserving the online sale of tickets to itself did not constitute abuse of position, and this should have been flagged to the judge who issued the warrant, he added.

On Friday, Martin Hayden SC for Ryanair told the High Court the documents should not have been seized under this warrant and should not have been removed from the jurisdiction despite concerns raised by his client.

Ryanair also claims many of the seized documents are covered by confidential, irrelevant, commercial sensitive or covered by legal professional privilege, he said.

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Mr Hayden was glad some sense has taken hold, in that the ACGM has now agreed not to look at the seized documents until the court decides on its challenge to the warrant, which is due to be argued in court on May 10th.

Eoin McCullough SC said his client, the AGCM, would give a temporary undertaking to the court not to look at any of the documents.

He said the Italian agency will decide by next Wednesday whether it will challenge the Irish courts jurisdiction to hear Ryanairs case.

Senior counsel for the CCPC, Nessa Cahill, said she does not accept any of the facts as presented by Ryanair.

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She told Mr Justice Max Barrett that the airline was represented by its solicitors, Arthur Cox, during the search and any assertion of privilege made regarding the documents was respected by competition officers.

She said the parties have agreed to ask former chief justice Frank Clarke to examine the files and consider which are covered by Ryanairs claim of professional privilege.

More than 200 documents were seized, which is a relatively small number, she added. The CCPC does not accept there is any limitation on its power to seize documents that may be irrelevant to the investigation, she added.

Ryanair, via its companies Ryanair DAC and Ryanair Holdings PLC, is asking the court to quash the warrant and to make an order restraining the authorities from reviewing any of the material seized, which should be returned to Ireland.

The airline also contends it is entitled to damages, including for breach of duty and breach of Ryanairs constitutional right to a fair trial and privacy.

The CCPC is the statutory body responsible for the enforcement of competition law in Ireland.

EU competition law allows a competition authority of one member state to request another member states authority to inspect on its behalf to establish whether there has been an infringement of EU competition law, the CCPC has said.
The family of a GAA official murdered by loyalist paramilitaries has criticised the British government for taking legal action in relation to an inquest into his death.

Sean Brown (61) was abducted and killed by loyalist paramilitaries as he locked the gates at Bellaghy Wolfe Tones Club in Co Derry in May 1997.

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No one has ever been convicted of his murder.

An inquest was under way into his death until last month when a coroner said it could not proceed due to the withholding of sensitive files.

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Mr Justice Kinney said his ability to examine Mr Browns death had been compromised by the extent of confidential State material being excluded from the proceedings on national security grounds.

He said he would write to Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris to call on the British government to establish a public inquiry into the loyalist murder.

On Thursday, the British government said it was making a legal challenge.

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A spokesperson said: We can confirm that an application for leave to apply for judicial review has been made relating to the inquest into the death of Sean Brown.

It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage given the matter is now the subject of judicial consideration.

Bridie Brown, the wife of Sean Brown, with his daughters Claire Loughran (left) and Siobhan Brown (front right) and his son Sean Brown (rear right) speaking to the media outside the Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast in March (PA)

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In a statement issued by their solicitor, the Brown family said they felt the legal action was an attack on the truth and accused the British government of attempting to deny victims access to justice.

We repose a high degree of cynicism as to the timing of the announcement of these judicial review proceedings, coming as they do on the on the actual date that a public inquiry decision was due, the family statement continued.

The Brown family are gravely concerned that this is a concerted attempt to tie them up in legal processes that could take years, and that they are being used as pawns in a wider attempt by the British government to defend its indefensible approach to legacy.

Todays announcement has a retraumatising effect on a family but most specifically an 86-year-old widow, already coming to the terms with the facts that were permitted to emanate from the inquest process.

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We confirm that we retain instructions to issue our own proceedings, given the failure by the Secretary of State to make a decision within the proscribed time, in request of the direction of the High Court to convene a public inquiry.
The Tanaiste has rejected as absurd the suggestion that Irelands plan to recognise the Palestinian state would be akin to rewarding terrorism.

The Israeli ambassador to Ireland, Dana Erlich, was asked about Ireland beginning discussions on recognising the state of Palestine on Newstalk radio on Friday morning, to which she replied: We ask  why reward terrorism?

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Responding, Tanaiste and foreign affairs minister Micheal Martin said it was an absurd and unacceptable assertion to make.

There are many, many countries around the world over the years that have recognised the Palestinian state, he said, speaking at a party event on Friday

There was a time that Israel committed to its two-state solution, I think under (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu what we have witnessed from Israel is deliberate attempts to undermine the prospects of a two-state solution.

The failure to rein in settlers and settlements is evidence of that.

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It is just wrong to make that assertion, I also want to make the assertion to the ambassador as well, I think the ambassador was very incorrect in saying that the Irish Government had not condemned Hamas as an organisation, we have, we have consistently condemned Hamas, the objectives of Hamas.

He said the ambassador had accepted that Mr Martin had condemned the heinous October 7 attack.

Israels Ambassador to Ireland Dana Erlich at the Israeli Embassy in Dublin. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

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When asked when Ireland planned to recognise Palestine, Mr Martin did not give a timeline.

He said Ireland is working with other states with the aim of getting a group of countries together that would collectively and in a co-ordinated way together recognise the Palestinian state.

That work is continuing and I dont want to impose any timelines on other countries, he said, adding that he spoke to the Spanish, Norwegian and Slovenian foreign affairs ministers this week.

Asked about the partys decision not to invite the Israeli ambassador to the partys annual conference in Dublin this weekend, he said it was a party rather than a Government event.

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This is a party Ard Fheis, not a Government Ard Fheis, the Fianna Fail leader said on Friday.

I met with the ambassador recently in my office, I had a lengthy meeting with the ambassador where I communicated the Irish Governments views in respect of our perspective in terms of whats happening in Gaza.

And it was a lengthy, respectful discussion.

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Tanaiste Micheal Martin ahead of the Fianna Fail Ard Fheis, at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre. Photo: PA.

He added: I believe in diplomacy and I dont believe in expelling ambassadors.

I was asked over 12 months ago to expel the Russian ambassador, I was asked to expel the Iranian ambassador. If you take that to a logical conclusion, one could be expelling a lot of ambassadors in a given year.

But the importance of diplomacy is you keep the channel of communications open between governments through their diplomats, he said, adding that diplomats in Tel Aviv, Cairo and Jordan had been useful in getting citizens out of Gaza.

Thats what surprises me about political parties come forward calling for expulsions of diplomats, I think its a simplistic, shallow way, I think, of developing policy.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has announced an investigation into suspected Russian interference in Europe-wide elections in June, saying that his countrys intelligence service has confirmed the existence of a network trying to undermine support for Ukraine.

Belgian intelligence services have confirmed the existence of pro-Russian interference networks with activities in several European countries and also here in Belgium, said Mr De Croo, whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union.

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Mr De Croo said that Belgian agencies are working closely with the Czech authorities after a pro-Russian influence operation was uncovered there.





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He said that probe showed that members of the European Parliament were approached and offered money to promote Russian propaganda.

According to our intelligence service, the objectives of Moscow are very clear. The objective is to help elect more pro-Russian candidates to the European Parliament and to reinforce a certain pro-Russian narrative in that institution, he told reporters.

Mr De Croo said the the goal is very clear: a weakened European support for Ukraine serves Russia on the battlefield and that is the real aim of what has been uncovered in the last weeks.

Europe-wide polls are being held on June 6-9 to elect a new EU parliament.

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Mr De Croo said that Belgian prosecutors are taking action.

He noted that the cash payments did not take place in Belgium, but the interference does.

These are serious concerns and that is why I have taken action, he said.

We cannot allow this type of Russian menace in our midst. We need to act, and we need to act both on the national level and we also need to act on the EU level.

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He provided no details about who might be under suspicion.

Belgian authorities uncovered an influence-peddling operation at the European Parliament in December 2022 involving officials from Qatar.

The government of Qatar has denied the allegations.
San Marcos police say the Texas Rangers will investigate after officers shot and killed a man on Thursday night. Pablo Martinez Monsivais, STF / Associated Press

The Texas Rangers will investigate after San Marcos police officers shot a man to death on Thursday night, city officials said Friday.

About 9:30 p.m. Thursday, two men called 911 and said a man carrying two knives had followed them out of a convenience store on Cheatham Street and threatened them, police said. Officers responding to the call located a suspect matching the description of the man at the convenience store, police said.

After officers arrived, the man ran across Hopkins Street, then across Thorpe Lane toward another business carrying a knife, police said.

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READ MORE: Canyon Lake woman gets life in prison for role in 2017 murder

Officers were unable to restrain the man using a Taser, police said, and shot him as he ran toward the nearby business still carrying the knife. The man was taken to Seton Hays Hospital in Kyle, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

The man, who was in his 20s, has not yet been identified, police officials said.

San Marcos police did not release the names of the officers involved in the shooting or say how many officers fired their weapons.

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President Joe Biden said that US defence commitment to Pacific allies was ironclad as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific.

The US and the Philippines have had a mutual treaty in place for more than 70 years.

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Mr Bidens reinforcement of the American commitment comes in the midst of persistent skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea.

President Joe Biden, centre, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida attend a trilateral meeting at the White House (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)

The US defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. Theyre ironclad, Mr Biden said as he began three-way talks at the White House with Kishida and Marcos.

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As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty.

Relations between China and the Philippines have been repeatedly tested by confrontations involving the two nations coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea.

Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

The so-called grey-zone harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim.

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In 1999, Manila intentionally ran a World War Two era ship aground on the shoal, establishing a permanent military presence there.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, right, listens as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida speaks before a luncheon at the State Department in Washington (Cliff Owen/AP)

Mr Biden, in a wide-ranging phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, raised concerns about Chinas operations in the South China Sea, including efforts to impede the Philippines from resupplying its forces on the Second Thomas Shoal.

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Chinese officials have bristled at criticism over their action in the South China Sea and blamed the US for exacerbating tensions.

No one should violate Chinas territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Thursday.

The White House billed the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines as a potent response to Chinas attempts at intimidation and said it would send a message that China is the outlier in the neighbourhood, according to an administration official.

The White House said in a statement that Mr Biden and Mr Marcos during the talks underscored their commitment to international law in the South China Sea and reaffirmed their countries treaty obligations to defend each other.

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The leaders also announced joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific this year, a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in waters near the South China Sea.

The US Coast Guard will welcome Philippine and Japanese coast guard members onto a US Coast Guard vessel during the patrol for training, according to White House.

The summit followed Bidens one-on-one talks and glitzy state dinner on Wednesday at the White House for the Japanese premier, a diplomatic honour meant to recognise Tokyos growing clout on the global stage.

White House officials said they were aiming to send a clear signal that the Democratic administration remains determined to build what it calls a latticework of alliances in the Indo-Pacific even as it grapples with the Israel-Hamas war and Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Biden also hosted Mr Marcos for a private meeting at the White House ahead of the three-way talks.
A British-Palestinian surgeon who volunteered in Gaza hospitals during the first weeks of the Israel-Hamas war has said he was denied entry to Germany to take part in a pro-Palestinian conference  an event that police later ended early.

Dr Ghassan Abu Sitta said he arrived at Berlin airport on Friday morning before being stopped at passport control, where he was held for several hours and then told he had to return to the UK.

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Airport police said he was refused entry due to the safety of the people at the conference and public order, Dr Abu Sitta told The Associated Press by phone.

He said his ban was to last until Sunday, covering the planned duration of the Berlin conference he was to attend, entitled the Palestine Congress.



Participants try to prevent journalists from filming and photographing before the start of the Palestine Congress (Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa via AP)

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The gathering was to discuss a range of topics, including German arms shipments to Israel and solidarity with what organisers called the Palestinian struggle.

Berlin police said later on Friday they pulled the plug on the event, attended by up to 250 people, on its first day after a livestream was shown of a person who is banned from political activity in Germany.

They would not identify the person but said they decided after a legal assessment to end the congress and asked those attending to leave.

Organisers wrote on social network X that the conference was banned by the police without reason.

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Germany remains one of Israels staunchest defenders, even at a time of growing international outrage over the soaring Palestinian death toll in Gaza, which has surpassed 33,000.

German officials have stressed Israels right and duty to defend itself since the start of the war  though their tone has gradually shifted, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock increasingly decrying the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling on Israel to allow more aid to reach the territory.



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Shortly after Hamass October 7 attack on Israel, the German government implemented a formal ban on activity by or in support of Hamas.

Since the war erupted, Germany has clamped down on many pro-Palestinian activities and demonstrations, with officials citing fears of possible antisemitic or anti-Israel incitement.

The hard line has broad political support at home but has drawn criticism.

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Germanys deportation of Dr Abu Sitta is a naked act of authoritarian censorship, more in line with the policies of dictatorships like Saudi Arabia and China than a rights-respecting democracy, Sarah Leah Whitson, the executive director of Washington-based human rights watchdog Democracy for the Arab World Now said in a statement.

Dr Abu Sitta, who recently volunteered with Doctors Without Borders in Gaza, has worked during multiple conflicts in the Palestinian territories, beginning in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian uprising. He has also worked in other conflict zones, including in Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

Fridays congress was viewed with great wariness by German officials before it started and was heavily policed.

Earlier on Friday, German Interior Ministry spokesperson Maximilian Kall told reporters in Berlin that federal security authorities had been in touch with their local counterparts in the capital about questions of, for instance, entry bans.
A senior Chinese official arrived in North Korea and held talks on how to boost co-operation in the countries highest-level meeting in about five years, North Koreas state media reported on Friday,

Zhao Leji, chairman of Chinas National Peoples Congress and considered the number three official in the ruling Communist Party, arrived in North Korea on Thursday.

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Chinas government earlier said he will stay in North Korea until Saturday.

Mr Zhao met his North Korean counterpart Choe Ryong Hae and discussed how to promote exchanges and cooperation on all areas such as politics, economy and culture, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.

Mr Zhao and Choe Ryong Hae, right at Pyongyang International Airport in Pyongyang (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

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The two also exchanged views on unspecified regional and international issues of mutual concerns, KCNA said.

Mr Zhao is one of the seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee, the Communist Partys top leadership body headed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

His visit to North Korea marked the first bilateral exchange involving a committee member since the coronavirus pandemic started.

In 2019, the two countries held two summit meetings between Mr Xi and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

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Observers say North Korea and China are expected to hold a number of exchanges this year to mark the 75th year since they established diplomatic ties.

North Korea has been seeking to boost its co-operation with China and Russia in the face of a standoff with the United States and South Korea over the Norths advancing nuclear programme.

China, North Koreas biggest aid benefactor, is believed to have long provided clandestine assistance to North Korea in violation of international sanctions.

Mr Kim traveled to Russia in September for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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The US, South Korea and others accuse North Korea of supplying conventional weapons for Russias war in Ukraine in return for advanced weapons technologies and other support.
A police constable in Britain accused of a sex attack on a fellow officer in a hotel room has been cleared of attempted rape.

Sussex Police officer Daniel Julian, 46, denied using force or trying to rape the woman at a hotel in Kent on August 17th 2021.

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Jurors at Lewes Crown Court returned a not guilty verdict on all three counts of sexual assault, causing a woman to engage in sexual activity without consent and attempted rape following a five-day trial.

Julian, of Pulborough, West Sussex, has been suspended from police duty since he was charged over the incident in April 2023.
Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican has announced, confirming the longest trip of Francis papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the September 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore.

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Further details will be announced later.



Pope Francis waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St Peters Square at The Vatican (Andrew Medichini/AP)

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis.

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He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy.

It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the worlds most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

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There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later  this week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.



Pope Francis meets with volunteers of the Italian Red Cross in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican (Gregorio Borgia/AP)

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

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The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace, the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians  8.5 million of whom are Catholics  according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asias only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timors population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner.

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The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will also be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St John Paul II travelled there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapores first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it will bring renewed fervour to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year  to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the countrys Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina, but no plans or dates have been announced.
A former ally of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Peter Magyar, registered a party late on Thursday to run in the European elections in June, setting out a test for his ability to challenge the nationalist leader.

Magyar swooped into Hungary's political scene in February when he accused the government of widespread corruption and running a centralised propaganda machine. Orban aides have rejected his accusations.

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In late March, he published a recording of a conversation with Judit Varga, then his wife and Hungary's justice minister, in which she detailed an attempt by Orban aides to meddle in a graft case.

The revelation, which is being investigated by prosecutors, has led to large protests in Hungary and has cast a shadow over Orban's government which had already been reeling from a sex abuse scandal that led to the resignation of the president.

Opinion polls show that Magyar would get about 13% of voters while Fidesz's support was mostly unchanged.

Magyar, who took over an inactive party called Tisza is starting a country-wide campaign tour next week, planning to visit six to eight towns a day, he said.

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"There is still a lot of work to do. We are a kind of garage company," he said.

At a rally last week, he told his audience that he wants to "take Hungary back" and restore democracy. He stood up for the reform of the healthcare and education systems and reiterated that he wants to co-operate with the European Union.

Magyar has said earlier that he will be heading his party's list for the European elections as its most popular member, but will not become a member of the European Parliament and stay in Hungary to challenge the government.

If his party won any seats in the European elections, their members would join the European People's Party group, he told ATV in an interview. - Reuters
Empire Energy will pay down its US debt to Macquarie and put a bit over A$3m in the tin to chase gas in the Northern Territorys Beetaloo Sub Basin after offloading its US oil and gas assets in the Appalachian region for about A$14 million. The company is poised to take on the Australian east coast gas supply dilemma with its Beetaloo ground 500kms south east of Darwin modelled to generate a project net present value for phase two of $2.5 billion and $14.5 billion for phase three.

Empires 100 per cent owned subsidiary Imperial Oil & Gas is the holder of the largest acreage position in the Beetaloo with more than 113,000 square kilometres of ground.

Empire Energys Carpentaria 2H well flaring gas in the Northern Territorys onshore Beetaloo Sub-Basin.

Whilst no companies are yet producing commercial gas from the Northern territorys Beetaloo Sub Basin Empire is in a race to be first. The region is generally considered to hold almost biblical scale gas deposits that could make WAs massive North West gas project a little pale by comparison.

At last report Empire had $17.3m in the bank and the sale of the US assets will add $3.36m to its already substantial kitty after paying down some debt.
Victorias oldest running arts festival, the Castlemaine Festival, has gone into voluntary administration with organisers blaming losses incurred at last years event.

Staged in autumn, the biennial festival is a rich part of the towns culture according to many locals, including chair of the festival board Lucy Mayes, but voluntary administration was the only responsible decision open to the board once the results of the most recent festival were revealed.

Frente play the 2023 Castlemaine Festival Credit: Diana Domonkos

We believe with cautious hope that this will be a move that will be able to save the festival, she said.

A statement from the board said: We understand that this will be upsetting for the many people who have supported, enjoyed and championed our festival over many years, as it is for the board and staff.
Australias future as a renewable energy superpower, if we get there, is about far more than the deployment and export of renewable energy or even the machines that make it.

Rather, says Professor Ross Garnaut, who with his two books on the subject and his creation of the Superpower Institute with former chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Rod Sims, has done more than anyone else to popularise the notion, we could become a nation that sells green energy to the world embedded in the products we make cleanly at home.

A new solar farm in Queensland supplying Glencore mines in Mt Isa.

Australia contributes just one per cent of total carbon dioxide being pumped into the worlds atmosphere each year. Sure, we can those emissions at home, and we are bound to do so by the Paris Accord. But if we embed green energy into the products the world needs as it decarbonises we could reduce global emission by 7 per cent, Garnaut estimates.

In a zero-carbon world, energy-intensive industry will be pushed to Australia, he says.
When Sabrina Damiano bought her first home  a one-bedroom apartment in Sydneys eastern suburbs  the possibility of not getting along with her neighbours didnt cross her mind.

Ive rented for the last 10 years and never had any issues, she says. When I moved in, I even went around and introduced myself with cupcakes and cookies.

But just over a month later, Damiano received a breach notice saying her dog, Rufus  a 15-year-old pug-cross-maltese with dementia  was disturbing the peace by occasionally barking.

Sabrina Damiano says neighbours made her life difficult with a string of noise complaints about her dog. Credit: Ben Symons

Damiano says she took every measure to improve the situation. She got Rufus new medication, worked from home more frequently, and hired a dog-sitter when she had to leave the house. But the breach notices kept coming. Now, the case may go to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
A 75-year-old man died after his wife found him unresponsive inside a pool early Thursday on the South Side. kali9/Getty Images/iStockphoto

A 75-year-old man is dead after his wife found him unresponsive in a pool early Friday on the South Side.

San Antonio police responded to a drowning around 10 a.m. in the 200 block of East Young Avenue. Upon arrival, officers observed the family still trying to revive him with CPR.

The mans wife saw her husband in the pool and jumped in to take him out, states a preliminary report. She then performed CPR until the rest of her family arrived.

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ALSO READ: Multiple people injured after truck crashes into Brenham DPS office in possible criminal act

The 75-year-old was not responding and was pronounced dead at the scene, the report states.

The deceased mans wife told police that she noticed him near the pool earlier in the morning, and he appeared to be cleaning the pool before falling in and hitting his head.

The Bexar County Medical Examiners Office has not released the mans identity or his cause of death.

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A West Australian former reporter now working for the United Nations Childrens Fund is lucky to be alive after being shot at in Gaza.

Tess Ingram, who worked for the Australian Financial Reviews Perth bureau and then this masthead before moving to New York to work for the United Nations in 2022, was in a UNICEF vehicle waiting to enter the north of Gaza when it was hit by live ammunition.

Tess Ingram worked for the Australian Financial Review and WAtoday before moving abroad to work for the United Nations.

The three UNICEF and UNRWA cars were in convoy on a coordinated mission to deliver fuel to water wells in the north, and lifesaving nutrition and medical supplies to Kamal Adwan Hospital.

They left Rafah after some delays, got to a holding point before the checkpoint at Wadi Gaza, to a designated holding point where UN vehicles are made to wait until the checkpoint is ready to receive them, Ingram told Al Jazeera.
Hugo Weaving says the STC was not front-footed enough amid the furore over actors wearing keffiyeh on stage in a show of solidarity with Palestine. Credit: Simon Schluter Good on Hugo Weaving for speaking out against the silencing in Australia of objections to Israels actions in Gaza. The ruthless killing of Palestinians is not justified. A two-state solution is the clear solution. Britain, the US and Germany, as well as Australia, should insist on and recognise the state of Palestine. Otherwise, this conflict will never end. Stephen Wallace, Glebe I agree with Hugo Weaving. Not just Australia, but the western world has been cowed into not speaking out about Israels invasion of Gaza. For decades Israel has subjected Palestinians to inhumane treatment and repression. John Macintosh, Merewether Hugo Weaving has missed the point entirely. The incident at the Sydney Theatre Company came at a time when Australian Jews were first being targeted here. Many were, and still are, very frightened. There were people in that audience who thought that guns would come out next. The STC has refused to support our Australian Jewish community and deserves to be boycotted. This wasnt simply a small protest, it was an attack on Australians and Australian values. Pamela Shepherd, Balgowlah Like many of us, Hugo Weaving has a firm opinion on the Israel/Gaza situation. However, his opinion should carry no more weight than Henrys or Hettys. Hes an actor. So? Rosemary OBrien, Ashfield

Duttons mining of misery disgusting On April 28, 1996, I wasnt actually on the Port Arthur Historic Site, though I was working for the organisation at the time (Dutton rebukes Wong on Palestine, April 11). After the massacre, I served on the recovery committee and I still live in the district. Thirty-five people died that day, including a girl I had worked with at the site, and another whose parents were friends of mine. Many more were seriously injured, including people I knew well and hundreds of people were thrown into grief. The ramifications for the community of the Tasman Peninsula were horrendous, and it took a long time for this community to recover. Some people never did.

For Peter Dutton to claim that a peaceful demonstration (however unpleasant in his eyes) in

Sydney is somehow equivalent to a massacre in Tasmania is just beyond belief. And to use

all that misery, which I witnessed and was part of, for political ends is just disgusting. I

hope and pray that such a person never comes to power in Australia. James Parker, Premaydena (Tas) Dont go there: Peter Dutton likened the Opera House protests to the Port Arthur massacre. Credit: Louie Douvis Comparing the pro-Palestinian demonstration at the Sydney Opera House to the Port Arthur massacre is beneath contempt and an insult to those families who lost loved ones on that terrible day. He certainly is firmly ensconced in the ranks of those politicians who the historian Manning Clark described as punishers and straighteners as opposed to an enlarger of life. Denis Minehan, Cooma I understand that it is Peter Duttons role to oppose the government and that the role is not an easy one. What I cant understand is the reckless rhetoric that he used yesterday to attack the PM. Can anyone explain how a Sydney pro-Palestine protest in October 2023 can be linked to the Port Arthur massacre of 1996? Lorraine Hickey, Green Point

Renewable push is worthy and needs state sponsorship As the prime minister talks up made in Australia renewable technology, private tech companies simply want government handouts for their profit lines. The government should heed the warning by Eslake of the historical failure of such subsidy schemes (Battery maker charged up by PMs clean tech pledge, April 12). The answer, as in wartimes past, is government ownership of the means of production. When aircraft were needed in WWII, government aircraft factories built them. When trains were needed, the NSW government built them. When electricity was needed, the governments Snowy scheme and the government coal mines and power stations provided. The climate change catastrophe is not waiting for incentives and market forces to work, it requires the strong capable hand of the state to save us by immediate legislation of renewable production under state ownership. Barry Laing, Castle Cove Albaneses intention of putting some serious cash into the production of renewables in Australia is admirable. The source of the cash, however appears to be rather unclear or unlikely, coming from taxpayer funds and also from large business investments. The latter, which so far seem not readily forthcoming, will apparently need to be wooed out of big business, a process that will, of course, consume more taxpayer funds. It would be so much more effective for the federal and state governments to divert some of the huge subsidies (of taxpayer funds) currently paid to the fossil fuel industry. This would increase the money for renewables, reduce the emissions and environmental damage produced by fossil fuel extraction and, vitally, reduce the emissions produced when these fuels are burnt. Wonderful by-products of this rearrangement would mean that Australia could be run on renewables, which are by far the cheapest sources of energy, and would produce a slowing of global warming with the consequent reduction of floods, droughts and wildfires and a reduction in extinctions. Penny Rosier, North Epping

Path to peace Most thinking people agree a two-state solution is (probably) the answer to a longer peace (Two-state solution is a long way off, April 12). However before the parties even get to a negotiating table, whats needed is a complete change of leadership on both sides. Forsaking eye-for-eye rhetoric, and endless violent retribution, a real leadership genuinely intent on creating an enthusiasm among both populations for an everlasting peace, with corresponding role modelling and conversational behaviour, is a critical prerequisite. Peace will not come without this change. Frederick Jansohn, Rose Bay Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Credit: POOL EPA The suggestion that there could be a two-state solution for the Israel-Palestine problem is misguided. It will never work, and mainly for two reasons. First, both will want Jerusalem in their territory, so no agreement will be reached over that. Second, Hamas will simply use the sovereign

territory of Palestine for its attacks, as it believes that Israel should not exist. There could be one solution for the Jerusalem problem: make it an international territory run by the UN and accessible to both. Israel, however will not agree to that. And under a right-wing government Israel will continue to push settlements into Palestinian territory. So there cannot be a solution. It will remain a trouble spot. Its one that the world (or at least the West) created in 1949, so well have to remain involved. David Ashton, Katoomba

Water wise The companies suppressing the evidence of adverse health effects from PFAS chemicals sound like asbestos and tobacco all over again; in the case of the latter, it eventually cost them billions (Forever chemical in tap water, April 12). They would have better off if they had owned up in the beginning. John Frith, Paddington How ironic that we might assume our tap water quality ranks quite well, but that a carcinogenic forever chemical in our tap water is 140 times the maximum level the United States considers safe. Australia ranks about 27th for global drinking water quality, but the question is whether these rankings include levels of forever chemicals. As someone whos always been cynical about the habitual buying and consumption of bottled water given our apparently good tap water, I concede that such consumers may indeed be much smarter and safer in view of sustained government and relevant health authority negligence in exposing the public to these carcinogens. How do we know that lifelong chronic exposure to these carcinogens is not contributing to our cancer rates of supposedly unknown causes? First world wealth and resources clearly make no difference in a public safety backwater. Robyn Dalziell, Kellyville Investors hit hard too

Like many landlords, we are just mum and dad investors in an inner west home unit with a substantial mortgage (Letters, April 12). Our unit was always meant to be our superannuation and retirement home down the track. Meanwhile, we have been renting a house in Haberfield for 17 years. When the fixed rate cliff hit last year, our mortgage jumped $800 a month. Reluctantly we increased the rent of our tenant by $50 a week, leaving us out of pocket by nearly $600 a month, plus facing a not-unreasonable rent increase ourselves. Its time that tenants and others recognised the situation of landlords like us who have had to offset rent increases through our own pockets. Brian Welsh, Haberfield Blazer at the brothel One of my enduring memories from when I was a receptionist at a local brothel is of one of the ladies sitting in a leopard-print bikini, mending her sons (exclusive) private school blazer in between seeing clients (Letters, April 12). And while on the subject, why is the stigma regarding these private transactions always attached to the (mostly) female sex workers, and not the (mostly) male clients? Alicia Dawson, Balmain Girls rise Auburn Girls High is one of the many examples of public schools excelling with the generous assistance of retailer Harvey Norman (Retailers boost for young women, April 12). The financial support for high school girls from disadvantaged background, aspiring to pursue tertiary education, is a wonderful initiative. In a week when the state government cruelly cut funds to public education, Auburn Girls High shows a public school that is providing a quality, and inclusive, education. John Cotterill, Kingsford

Harvey Norman chief executive Katie Page with Auburn Girls High School students (from left): Hasini Poddaturu, Adeena Khan and Sarah Chaudhary. Credit: Rhett Wyman What a relief, after ploughing through the unsavoury antics of Bruce Lehrmann, our collective poisoning through tap water, further government mismanagement in the War Memorial scandal, problems arising from a freed rapist, more hospital staff cuts, ongoing reminders of rental stress at home and the Gaza tragedy, to arrive finally at the uplifting story of Harvey Normans support for young women at public schools, the eminently sensible comments of the chancellor of the University of Western Sydney, the inspiration of the CEO of Harvey Norman and the pleasantly formal photograph of young people with high ambitions and the determination to work to achieve them. Heather Johnson, West Pennant Hills Bodgies barber I was one of a group of apprentices at Eveleigh workshops in the 1950s (Letters, April 12). We were bodgies and we used to travel after work to Angelo de Marcos fortnightly to replenish our hairstyle. Much more frequently than my visits to the hairdresser these days. Max Petrie, Palm Beach

Age of reason Badinage is goodinyouth (Letters, April 12). Russ Couch, Woonona Peter Fyfe will need to watch when the badinage morphs into espionage! David Gordon, Cranebrook Top floor trysts Jan Boyd of Sylvania fondly remembers Manning House as a women-only sanctuary in the late 60s. I also remember that the top floor was a great social hub for both sexes. Many liaisons were made. Tim ODonnell, Newport

MONA FOMO I think that your correspondent is missing an important point when he defends the decision that the Ladies Lounge art work at MONA is discriminatory when he argues that art is meant to be appreciated by everyone (Letters, April 12). In the case of this particular art work, a mans appreciation comes from his not being allowed in  that is the whole point of the piece. Brilliant! Harvey Sanders, Paddington I dont know Jason Lau, but mate, get a grip! Graham Fazio, Cootamundra Postscript Theres been a strong reaction from readers to a column from former political adviser and author Sean Kelly. In Silence descends: Our inability to discuss difficult issues has never been more obvious - Kelly discussed the polarised reaction to the appointment of Samantha Mostyn as the next governor-general. It demonstrated that ones political identity determines ones beliefs and not the other way around, he said.

Agreement on difficult topics may not be possible. Even then, the process of working towards agreement, of honest and open discussion, can be important. We seem to have lost this ability, or perhaps the desire. And yet, this bleak fact too is something we will largely leave unspoken. Ross Butler from Rodd Point agreed: Regrettably, conflict and expressions of discontent and anger have become fashionable, prompting discussions to become polarised and a zero-sum game. Mosmans Gary Barnes said: this polarisation has become so marked that we are reluctant to express our beliefs unless we believe we are in the company of friends who think similarly. How has it come to this when Australians belief in a fair go included listening respectfully to someone of differing opinions?. This weeks other big story was our revelation that the NSW state government is slashing the budget for NSW public schools by up to $148 million this year as thousands of deputy and assistant principals are forced back into classroom teaching roles to help deal with chronic staffing shortages. Durals Augusta Monro said: What a disappointment this Labor government is turning out to be for supporters of public education, a sentiment echoed by Dolan Bays Phil Widders, who wrote: It is clear that this government does not see itself as the defender, let alone champion, of public education. What a travesty for the majority of our children who attend public schools.
The state government has cleared the way for a famed Sydney sports field to be converted into 132 townhouses, knocking back a Sydney councils years-long attempt to stop the development.

Ryde Council last year asked the state government for permission to compulsorily acquire the T.G. Millner sports field in Eastwood, in Sydneys northern suburbs, to thwart the plan that had been the centre of community backlash.

The state government has not allowed Ryde Council to compulsorily acquire T.G. Millner Field. Credit: Janie Barrett

But on Friday, local government minister Ron Hoenig told the council he had refused permission because he was not convinced the council could afford to purchase the land. Ryde Council is without a town hall and beset by major financial issues and its demolished civic centre is a hole in the ground.

There are significant issues with councils flagship Ryde Central project, which has frustrated the community and is stalled as an empty hole in the ground, Hoenig said in a statement.
Mick said getting out and searching helped him keep some sort of peace. As far as mentally-wise goes, its very good for your mind, he said. I think if you sat at home, you definitely wouldnt do yourself any favours, I dont think  I might go for an hour, I might go for two. I might go for four hours. Mick Murphy: This whole scenario, you wouldnt wish it on your worst enemy. Credit: Nine News He said he hoped his wifes body would be found so that there was a place for the family to visit. Initially after Samantha went missing, Victoria Police spoke to Mick as part of the investigation. He said it was a difficult time.

Im their first suspect, arent I? he said. Loading You start second-guessing yourself. I know Ive done nothing wrong, but theres these little voices in your head, you know, saying different things. It wasnt a good time and I wouldnt wish it on anybody. This whole scenario, you wouldnt wish it on your worst enemy. Ive just tried to be strong throughout it for the kids and family and community. In March, Stephenson, a local with no apparent connection to Murphy, was charged with her murder. Investigators allege Stephenson, the son of an ex-AFL player, attacked Murphy at Mount Clear on February 4.

Mick said it could save a lot of resources if his wifes body was found. A simple quick answer could change the day and bring a lot of relief and happiness to people, he said. Mick and Samantha were married for 26 years. Their anniversary was in late February, just weeks after she vanished. Sam was a smart, incredibly smart woman, he said. A woman signs a condolence book for Samantha Murphy in March. Credit: Jason South She was process-driven. So she knew what she was doing. Hence, every morning when she got up, she was up at 5.30, or before 5.30, gone for a run. Mick remembers February 4  the day she disappeared  very clearly.

I was overwhelmed. You know that somethings not right, he said. You know, you know, in the back of your mind, somethings not right. Samanthas usual run  through the surrounding bushland that she loved  was about an hour-and-a-half. It was a weekend, so she left a little later than usual, about 7am. I was outside  and I thought, Oh, shell be coming back up the road now pretty soon. And then  she didnt, he said. After a while, Mick went inside and asked the kids if their mum had come home yet, but there was no sign of her. They called her phone and it went straight to message.

And thats what I thought, Thats odd. Thats very odd because she has her phone and her watch fully charged before she leaves, he said. So thats when  I went out in the bush, started looking around. And next thing I called triple zero and it just escalated from there. Police search for body of missing Ballarat mother Samantha Murphy in Buninyong Bushland Reserve in February. Mick said Samantha loved to run through the bushland, much more than on the streets. Shes ... walked and walked and then she got fitter and started running and  running further and further. It was just, it was what she loved to do, he said.

With her disappearance, she has gone doing something that she really enjoyed. So thats one positive, I suppose, that we can take out of it. An estimated 1000 people gathered in Ballarat on Friday evening to protest over violence against women. The city of about 120,000 is reeling from the deaths of three women this year, all allegedly killed by men. Rally against violence against women in Ballarat. Credit: Eddie Jim On Monday, the ex-boyfriend of Hannah McGuire, a 23-year-old woman from Clunes, was charged with her murder. The body of McGuire, a popular netballer and emerging teacher, was found in a burnt-out car last week in Scarsdale, about 25 kilometres south-west of Ballarat. On February 16, Rebecca Young, a 42-year-old mother and grandmother, died in her home in Sebastopol in an apparent murder-suicide by her partner, Ian Butler, 55. Two of her teenage children were in the house when Young was stabbed to death.

Youngs mother and sisters addressed Fridays candlelit rally  attended by Ballarat women, men and children  calling for more support for women at risk. Her sister, Jessica, said victims needed more services available to them. City councillor Belinda Coates told women who were experiencing violence that we see you, we hear you, we believe you. Hannah McGuires parents at the rally in Ballarat. Credit: Eddie Jim Rally organiser, Djab Wurrung woman and violence survivor Sissy Austin told an applauding crowd that she believed the reason she survived a brutal attack by a rock-wielding man while jogging in forest near Ballarat a year ago was: [To] stand up, fight and rise as we did tonight. Mick also addressed the crowd, thanking the community for being out searching daily for his wifes body. He urged anyone who saw violence against women to say something and report it to authorities, and started a chant of bring Sam home.
In this series, The Age explores what has gone wrong with Melbournes most maligned suburb and what could be done to fix it.

Docklands residents are calling for the site set to be vacated by bulk-buy retailer Costco to be used for the suburbs first secondary school.

However, rumours are swirling that the 2.9-hectare site on Footscray Road will house a laboratory for Melbourne Pathology after Costco moves to its new $110 million warehouse in Ardeer, in Melbournes west, later this year.

Costco is departing Docklands and there is a push to replace it with a secondary school. Credit: Photo: Michael Clayton Jones; Art: Matt Davidson

Melbourne Pathology and Costco declined to comment on the plans for the key Docklands site.

While some Docklands residents fear the loss of big-box retailer Costco will be another blow to the economic viability of the struggling waterfront precinct, others see a golden opportunity to get the site back into public hands and use it for a much-needed educational facility.
To get to the most disliked place in Melbourne you take a left turn off Little Bourke Street into a narrow laneway, where skip bins from hotels and restaurants line the building walls.

Its in this unremarkable scene that youll find the entrance to the location that has earned the unfortunate title of Melbournes lowest star rating on Google reviews.

Amruta Dey left a 1-star review for the Wilson car park on Queen Street. Credit: Jason South

The winner of the wooden spoon is not the toilets at Flinders Street station. Or the bit of the Yarra where they fish out dumped bikes. Its a Wilson car park that has been described by those who have been in there as the worst in Australia.

If it was a movie, the reviews would be: its a stinker. The multi-level car park  address, 189 Queen Street  has a rating of 1.2 stars from 80 reviews. Keep in mind, Google doesnt allow reviewers to give a score lower than one.
Two Australian cryptocurrency schemes have collapsed within a week, leaving hundreds of investors across the country potentially owed more than $150 million.

The Federal Court on Wednesday ordered cryptocurrency fund operator Ash Balanian  who says in the funds investment documents that he is a former NASA mission scientist  to hand up his passport and issued a freezing order over his assets up to the value of $55 million. The freezing order covers his sprawling $7 million home in Ingleside in northern Sydney and four other houses.

Ash Balanians home in Ingleside that is subject to asset preservation orders handed down by the Federal Court. Credit: Domain

Liquidators from KordaMentha have been appointed to three companies operated by Balanian that offered cryptocurrency investments  DCA Capital, Digital Commodity Assets and the Digital Commodity Assets Fund  after concerned investors sought to have the companies wound up.

The application was brought by numerous investors due to concerns held by those investors regarding the management of the fund, failure to hold the required licences to operate the fund and for breaching managed investment scheme requirements.
A group of conservationists and scientists have banded together to pen a letter to West Australian Premier Roger Cook in a last-ditch bid to stop a $100 million surf park from being built on top of a habitat for endangered cockatoos.

But the proponent for the park has claimed the site is of low to moderate value as cockatoo habitat.

Protestors are asking Premier Roger Cook to stop the project. Credit: Cameron Myles/ Holly Thompson/ Supplied

The Jandakot facility plans include a 2.2 hectare open-water lagoon for up to 84 surfers at a time, alongside short-term accommodation, bars and restaurants, shops, function centre, events lawn, pump track, surf-skate bowl, outdoor gym, a health and fitness centre, playground and car park.

Perth Surf Park would be the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Proponent Aventuur anticipates more than one million people per year would use the facility.
An Australian War Memorial official who approved a tender by Lendlease for work on the controversial $550 million upgrade of the national institution did not disclose they had worked at the developer just six months earlier.

The finding is contained in the Australian National Audit Offices review of the handling of contracts for the project, prompting Veteran Affairs Minister Matt Keogh to demand answers over revelations conflicts of interest were improperly managed, and ministerial scrutiny was dodged.

The new look proposed for the Australian War Memorial. Credit:

The report says the auditor observed deficiencies in the memorials handling of conflicts of interest where members of the redevelopments tender evaluation committee had prior employment and working relationships with tenderers.

The delegate for the Poppys Carpark tender did not complete a conflict of interest declaration before approving the procurement outcome on 14 October 2019, six months after leaving employment with the successful tenderer, Lendlease, the report says, referring to one element of the development.
An internal Sydney Metro investigation found widespread risks of fraud and corruption within the agency, including deals with private companies that increased by more than 10 times their original value, undisclosed conflicts of interest and multimillion-dollar payments made to third parties with no record of why.

In September, Sydney Metros fraud and corruption unit handed the agency the results of an investigation it had carried out into 42 contracts of concern. It followed a series of internal Metro probes into its governance that raised concerns about the agencys use of public funds and prompted a crackdown on the use of private contractors by the Minns government.

An internal Sydney Metro investigation uncovered a litany of issues regarding the use of public money by the multibillion-dollar agency. Credit: Rhett Wyman

The internal investigation outlines a string of defects in the awarding of tens of millions of dollars in taxpayer funds, including cases in which professional service contractors employed by Metro had failed to declare a financial interest in companies that had won work with the agency.

The document, obtained by The Sydney Morning Herald via a parliamentary order, also details how concern about the use of those professional service contractors had found their way to Sydney Metro chief executive Peter Regan as early as August 2021.
Marco Garcia does work on his computer before the start of class at St. Phillips College on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023 in San Antonio, Texas. One of the first recipients of of a grant from SA Ready to Work, Garcia a is moving forward from past mistakes. He relies on VIA bus routes to St. Philips College where hes studying business management and technology. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

The City Council on Thursday signed off on a nearly $3 million subsidy for area employers to train new and current employees  a move the city calls a natural extension of its slow-moving jobs program.

That money will be split between 31 companies to provide on-the-job training for 1,371 area workers  a mix of new hires and existing employees.

By expanding training opportunities to employers, Ready to Work can shorten the gap between qualified workers and hard-to-fill roles, resulting in career growth opportunities for workers and increased retention on the job for employers, said Mike Ramsey, executive director of the citys Workforce Development Office.

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The subsidies were part of City Council consent agenda, which is usually packed with routine items that council quickly disposes of with an up-or-down vote. But District 5 Council Member Teri Castillo pulled the subsidy package to express her concerns about it.

Castillo criticized the inclusion of large companies, such as Holt Cat, auto parts maker Toyotetsu Texas Inc. and aircraft maintenance and repair firm StandardAero, over smaller employers.

The workforce training that theyre going to receive, the employers  with some of these billion-dollar businesses  they cant afford to provide those trainings and opportunities for their employees to grow? Castillo asked.

Ramsey said the subsidies are expected to prevent companies from laying off workers who dont have the skills they need.

Castillo ultimately joined her colleagues in voting 10-0 to approve this new use of Ready to Work tax dollars. District 10 Council Member Marc Whyte was absent for the vote.

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District 5 Council Member Teri Castillo at the September 14, 2023 San Antonio City Council meeting. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News

In November 2020, San Antonio voters approved a 1/8-cent of city sales tax, collected from December 2021 to December 2025, to pay for authorized programs related to job training and the awarding of scholarships.

The city expects to collect about $240 million.

To date, the city has funneled the money to Project QUEST, Restore Education, Workforce Solutions Alamo and the Alamo Colleges District, which in turn enroll participants in job training  which can be for an industry-recognized certificate or an associates or bachelors degree  and provide case management services.

The goal is for Ready to Work graduates to land full-time jobs paying at least $15 within six months of finishing their training  a metric the city has struggled to meet.

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Ramsey told reporters Thursday that funding on-the-job training had always been part of the plan for Ready to Work.

When City Council is asked in June to approve Ready to Works fiscal year 2025 program budget, it could include more money for employer job training, said City Manager Erik Walsh.

We think theres a lot more interest in these types of programs, he said.

Dan Gonzales, StandardAeros vice president of business development for the military sector, said the Ready to Work dollars will enable the company to train more engine maintenance workers than they could on their own.

Were going to be looking at 400 to 500 new jobs over the next four to five years, Gonzales said. So with that amount of new workload, we have to invest in a structure thats going to allow us the repeatability and the ability to grow as the local company needs grow.

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StandardAero will receive $150,000 from Ready to Work to train 124 new hires.

Companies that have pledged to hire Ready to Work graduates were invited to apply for this first round of funding. Of the hundreds of these employers, 27 applied for on-the-job training for new hires and 27 for the training for existing workers, according to program spokesman Ryan Loyd.

To date, Toyotetsu has hired one Ready to Work graduate. StandardAero and Holt have yet to hire a program participant.

All 31 employers will be required to pay their workers at least $18 an hour. There is no requirement for how long a company must employ someone after they receive their city-subsidized training.

Employees will receive a certificate upon completing their training, but Sonia Rodriguez, a leader with the grassroots community group COPS/Metro, said it remains unclear if those certificates will be transferable to another company.

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If the city paid for it, I would hope the answer is yes, Rodriguez said after Thursdays council meeting. Because thats the point  that people get the skills, get the certificates, get what they need to be able to actually reach a level of economic stability where they can grow on the career ladder. We want to empower the participants to have those choices.

COPS/Metro rallied voters to approve the program  and has been one of its most vocal critics.
Few people driving on the highway between Dandenong and Hastings south of Melbourne would find much to catch the eye as the road wends past the town of Pearcedale. Just a bush block with a metal fence around it.

But for devotees of Hindu deity Lord Sree Ayyappa Swamy, this vacant lot on a bend on the Westernport Highway has the attributes to be the perfect place to build Australias first traditional Keralan-style temple.

The small bush block on a bend in the highway is the subject of a VCAT dispute between residents and a religious group that seeks to build a temple there. Credit: Joe Armao

Vijay Senguttuvan is the secretary of non-profit organisation Melbourne Ayyappa Seva Sangam, which wants to build a temple on this nondescript patch of land in a rural part of the Mornington Peninsula.

The temple is always located in a very peaceful, calming area with a good sense of vibrations, said Senguttuvan. This is part of our worship and part of our cultural needs, and we want to pass this tradition on to future generations, so thats why we need this temple.
Its hard to believe there was a time in the not-too-distant past when former garbo-turned-yacht broker Ian Malouf stood apart from his fellow rich list mates as a die-hard renter. But there he was, in 2020, paying former Crown casino chairman Rob Rankin some $12,000 a week for the Woollahra trophy home Woodlands.

The five-bedroom house in Double Bay makes it three in a row for Ian Malouf and family. Credit: Domain

Dial-a-Dump founder Ian Malouf aboard his super yacht Mischief. Credit:

Havent things changed. In less than three years Malouf and his wife Larissa have gone full property binge, coughing up more than $208 million in ultra-prestige real estate from Palm Beach to Double Bay.

The latest Double Bay purchase is a five-bedroom house for which they competed against two other buyers at Mondays auction to buy for $9.5 million through Sothebys Michael Pallier.
Morgane Rouvreau would rather give up her Melbourne lifestyle and buy a house in regional Victoria than continue forking out for rent rises.

She has been priced out of renting in her Bayside suburb of Cheltenham, and with rent increases affecting nearly every pocket of Melbourne, Rouvreau is now considering purchasing a property in Geelong instead.

Unit rents are higher in every suburb across Melbourne than a year ago, the latest Domain Rent Report for the March quarter revealed.

House rents rose in nearly all suburbs except Sorrento, Blairgowrie and Safety Beach on the Mornington Peninsula.
Jackie Kennedy. Michael Jackson. Princess Diana. George Clooney. Celebrities have been flocking to The Carlyle for decades and this Upper East Side Stalwart remains as alluring as ever. The location, two blocks from Central Park, is excellent, but its the old-school service (where else will you find elevator operators wearing white gloves?) that really sets the mood. The hotel is anything but stuffy  it is home to one of New Yorks best cabarets, Cafe Carlyle, where the likes of Alan Cumming take to the stage. Another highlight: the legendary Bemelmans Bar, which has a Mad Men-style ambience and gorgeous murals by Ludwig Bemelman, the creator of the Madeline childrens books.

Rooms from about $1600 a night. See rosewoodhotels.com Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, India Wherever you go in India you will end up tripping over ornate palace hotels but if romance is on the menu, the Taj Lake Palace is top of the list. Floating in Lake Pichola the palace, built almost 300 years ago for the local Maharana, has 360-degree views and a sense of splendid isolation, yet a boat trip of just a few minutes puts you right in the heart of the historic city. The rooms are sumptuous (opt for one of the heritage suites if your wallet is up to the task) and four restaurants give guests a choice of Indian, Asian, Italian and western cuisine. For a night to remember, ask to have a private table set up in one of the palaces picturesque corners.

Rooms from about $660 a night. See tajhotels.com

JK Place Roma, Italy Credit: Christos Drazos Five-star hotels arent always about opulent lobbies and buzzing rooftop bars. Sometimes you want something that feels more low-key without dialling down the luxe. J.K. Place Roma fits the bill. Arriving here feels like arriving at the home of a fabulously wealthy friend. Check-in is conducted over coffee (or champagne, if you prefer) in the inviting lounge; a hidden lift takes you up to your room where the decor is lush yet restrained. The location, in a quiet side street within walking distance of both the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona, is convenient; the friendly service goes over and above.

Rooms from about $1500 per night. See jkroma.com Aman Tokyo, Japan

Having perfected the art of the tropical resort, Aman chose Tokyo as the location for its first urban retreat, creating the perfect hideaway in the buzzing Japanese capital. Located on the top six levels of a skyscraper, architect Kerry Hill used traditional Japanese design to turn designed Aman Tokyo into a haven of serenity. The oversized rooms feature materials including stone, wood and washi paper, while the top floor spa  complete with a pool with a view  allows you to discover a deeper level of relaxation. The restaurants are superb  book ahead to dine at Musashi, where eight diners take a seat at a hinoki wood counter to enjoy carefully-crafted sushi.

Rooms from about $3000 a night. See aman.com Four Seasons Desroches Island, Seychelles Credit: Four Seasons Desroches Island With 14km of white sand beaches and some of the most sweeping sunsets anywhere on the planet, Desroches Island is the tropical island of your dreams. The only resort on the island, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island is designed to let you drink in your surrounds. Chill out in your sprawling villa, pay a visit to the resident population of the indigenous giant Aldabra tortoises, or enjoy the sensational diving or snorkelling. Sunset drinks on the rooftop followed by an al fresco dinner is the best way to end the day. During the nesting season, your dinner may be interrupted by a staffer inviting you to watch turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.

Rooms from about $3400 a night. See fourseasons.com Ham Yard Hotel, London, UK
For now, it is the quail parfait. And with Veen, Separovich and chef Adem Kurcan as my guides, I am about to have a sneak-taste. Vow, founded in 2019, is among an emerging group of start-ups experimenting with growing meat in laboratories. The method obviously requires no agricultural land, and no animals have to die. (Vow markets the quail parfait as being of a bird without a heart, brain, feathers or bones.) But production is also expensive and still in its infancy. As such, many companies are struggling to get their products to the table  and to stay there. As reported recently in this masthead, alternatives to traditional meat, including plant-based products, have generally struggled to find a lasting nest in consumers hearts and minds. The New York Times this year ran an opinion essay on the subject of cultivated meat titled The Revolution That Died on Its Way to Dinner. As might be gleaned, it was not kind. Paraphrasing a deflated industry pioneer, the article mused the economics of lab-grown meat would never stack up unless factories could be built for a fraction of the price.

And are flaky fish-beef-chops a genuine prospect? Nothing yet to reach market has come close. The alchemists of old never did work out how to make gold. Veen, a true believer, explains the manufacturing process and I repeat it back to him in crude terms to make sure I understand: You essentially put animal cells in a giant vat and mix them with just-right nutrients and gases? Essentially, yes. The idea is not only to produce sustainable meat but to create entirely new meats, according to Vow. This way, the company, via its brand Forged, relieves itself of the burden of replicating identical meat flavours and textures, and hopes to make something even better.

Loading Key to this goal is isolating the desirable cells from animal hosts and discarding the rest, Veen says. For instance, a piece of chicken has a dozen different cell types in there, right? Theres nervous tissue, connective tissue, muscle tissue and, really, most of them actually hamper the taste of that product, he says. This product youre about to try consists solely of one very specific cell of the Japanese quail. The dream is tantalising. I ask if the method could grow, say, shark fin meat for the Asian market, thereby sparing endangered wild species. Yep, he says. Thats actually something weve already looked into.

Loading From cells in Sydney to table service in Singapore, Veen says the quail parfait process takes only about five weeks, including shipping. And why Singapore? For starters, it is one of the worlds great food cities. Pragmatically, however, there is a lack of other options. Only Singapore and the United States have granted regulatory approval for cultivated meat so far. Israel recently granted preliminary permission for beef. Vow is hopeful Australia and New Zealand will join in this year. Singapore, with negligible agriculture of its own, has been particularly progressive in encouraging new means of food production and sustainability. The government here has a goal of 30 by 30  that is, to sustainably produce 30 per cent of its citizens nutritional needs by 2030. In late 2020 it became the first nation to green-light lab meat for retail and, within days, San Francisco-based company Eat Just launched chicken bites  a world first.

But this was not the beginning of a food insurgency as the industry, activists and conservationists might have hoped. Alternatives to traditional meat, such as this plant-based burger, have generally struggled to find a lasting nest in consumers hearts and minds. Credit: Bloomberg Singapores Straits Times wrote last month that Eat Just, which had also been planning to launch in the United States, had paused operations. This left Vow. This will be the only venue in the world that actually serves cultivated meat, Veen says. Some [other companies] are unfortunately struggling because theyre creating chicken. Getting chicken right is difficult and, even if you do, it is an extremely cheap product, so you would have to match the price point, or at least get closer. The first course of our abridged service arrives courtesy of chef Kurcan, who has just finished dousing it with applewood smoke for a little more depth  and because it looks pretty cool.

It is the Forged Monaka, he explains: a Japanese rice cracker filled with the quail parfait, topped with Japanese pickle, ginger flower and pepperberry leaf. Put it together like an ice-cream sandwich, take two bites and enjoy, Kurcan says. Loading The Monaka is followed by the Hokkaido Wagyu Sando  real A5-grade beef topped with the parfait and served on a milk bun. To cleanse the palate, Kurcan serves a kingfish ceviche  without any lab product  and brings home our service with the showstopper: the Forged Brulee, a kind of sweet and savoury trifle filled with Sydney product. The verdict? First, it must be said I may be the easiest eater to please in all of Singapore. But for what its worth, it is very good  and unique.
Correspondence held in the Australian National Archives from Mary and ODells father John, who was the proprietor of the Bingara Cordial Factory, reveal their desperate attempts to discover what had happened to him, including Mary pleading to know if he had uttered any last words. Heartbroken, she died three years later. And yet, apart from their graves hewn from the parched, rocky Maltese earth, there is little other physical evidence the Anzacs were ever in Malta, despite the enormity of their presence over a century ago. Still standing despite relentless air raids in WWII, a fire in 1998 and ambitious property developers, Australia Hall in Malta. Tucked away a few blocks behind the bustling cafes and bars of the picturesque holiday spot St Julians Bay stands one unmissable remnant: a crumbling Australian coat of arms adorning a stone ruin known as Australia Hall. Miraculously, having survived WWII air raids, fire in 1998 and seen off plans to build a supermarket and a new Chinese embassy on the site, the building is intact, surrounded by fields of prickly pear, avenues of heavily scented pink oleanders, nondescript apartment buildings and neighbouring St Catherines High School.

The Australian coat of arms atop Australia Hall in Malta. But in 1915 Australia Hall was a vastly different place, a beacon of mateship for convalescing Anzacs far from home. Some 2000 of them could be accommodated within its stately hall at any given time, playing cards, writing letters to worried family, singing by the piano and sipping cups of tea, or something stronger when the ghosts of the battlefield came to haunt them. The fortresslike structure was hurriedly built by the royal engineers in just two months, with 2000 raised by the Australian Red Cross  around $250,000 in todays money. A gathering of convalescing Anzacs in Australia Hall during 1915. Credit: Richard Ellis Archive

Malta, home to the crusading Knights of St John in the 16th century, was dubbed the nurse of the Mediterranean during the disastrous Gallipoli campaign. It is an extraordinary and proud history we Maltese share with Australia and the Anzacs, but it is one I dont think is widely known across Australia  even though it truly deserves to be, Maltese historian John Portelli told the Herald from Valletta. The voyage across the Eastern Mediterranean in these makeshift hospital ships from the Gallipoli Peninsula to Malta was not an easy one. Australian troops and nurses in Malta during Gallipoli campaign. Credit: Richard Ellis Archive It took the steam ships up to eight days to cover the 1163-kilometre journey, and newspaper clippings paint a horrific image of their arrival in Vallettas fortified Grand Harbour; unloading human cargo of wounded, many septic and barely alive young men, their motionless bodies delicately lowered on stretchers by ship cranes onto barges waiting alongside.

At the beginning of April 1915, there were 824 military hospital beds in Malta. At the end of May 1915, there were more than 6000 in 14 hospitals spread all over the island. At its peak there were 25,522 beds in 28 hospitals, with the highest number of patients on any one day a staggering 16,004. Loading The Daily Malta Chronicle reported an unnamed Australian infantryman found a bullet had struck the bible in his (breast) pocket. The bullet penetrated as far as the gospel of St Matthew  resting on the words Till I put thine enemies underneath thy feet. Initially, the wounded were given a heros welcome, cheered by locals who tossed sweets, cigarettes and flowers into the passing horse-drawn ambulances. But as the numbers grew, the arrivals became more subdued. Even the church bells, of which there are hundreds across the staunchly Roman Catholic islands, fell silent. Prominent Maltese politician and lawyer Herbert Ganado wrote in his memoir of what he witnessed at Porta Reale as the soldiers were brought ashore: Masses of people packed the Strada Reale  Large crowds lined both sides and waited silently  Some clapped but were quickly shushed by the crowd. It was not an occasion for noise and shouting.

The people, particularly mothers in the crowds, became very emotional  Some of the wounded waved, smiled and looked happy they had been welcomed with such love and spontaneous attention. Only a day after the first wounded arrived, Ganado writes of witnessing the first of many military funerals. This is how I learned Chopins Funeral March, and now, whenever I hear the music, this scene comes to mind: a firing party, rifles at reverse arms, pointing downwards, a band and a coffin draped in the Union Jack on a gun carriage. Occasionally, one saw six or seven coffins in the same funeral procession. The Maltese compassion and hospitality did not go unnoticed back in Australia. Inside St Andrews Scots Church in Valletta are two stained-glass windows representing Christ the Light and Christ the Good Shepherd, commissioned by the Vasey family from the Melbourne suburb of Malvern.

Australian soldier John Vaseys grave at Pieta Cemetery in Malta. On August 14, 1915, corporal John Vasey of the Second Field Company died of septicemia, a month shy of his 21st birthday, having lost a leg after being wounded at Gallipoli. Vasey is buried at Pieta. According to war records his family received a collection of personal effects which included a shaving brush, notepad, fountain pen, matchbox and a pair of mittens. Vaseys brother George would later join the front and during WWII became one of Australias most storied warriors. Major General George Vaseys wife Jessie founded the War Widows Guild. In 1921 the Vasey brothers father, also named George, presented the stained-glass windows on behalf of the broader Australian Methodist community as a gift to the Maltese in honour of his son John and other Anzacs buried there. Today Vasey family descendants are as largely unaware of the windows provenance as the dwindling congregation at St Andrews, however a small plaque on the wall mentions the Australian connection.
Positive developments in the industry

Lamb notes a crucial shift in the industry: Brokers are the first port of call when someone needs a mortgage instead of going to the banks, this is a great achievement for our industry. She praises the evolution that now sees brokers offering choice, service, and personalised care to their clients.
Iran and the U.S. could soon be back on track with a new nuclear deal. (Photo: Reuters)

Iran has signaled to the United States, through intermediaries in Oman, that it intends to respond to Israel's attack on its Syrian embassy in a manner that aims to avoid major escalation, as Tehran presses demands including a Gaza truce, according to Iranian sources. The message, conveyed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian during a visit to Oman on Sunday, underscores Iran's cautious approach as it weighs its options for retaliation while seeking to deter further Israeli actions without triggering a wider conflict.

The White House declined to comment on any messages from Iran but stated that the United States has communicated to Tehran that it was not involved in the strike on the embassy. A source familiar with U.S. intelligence, while not aware of the specific message conveyed via Oman, noted that Iran has been clear in its intention to launch a "controlled" and "non-escalatory" response using regional proxies to target Israel.

The diplomatic messaging suggests that Iran is treading carefully in the wake of the April 1 attack, which killed a top Iranian general and marked an escalation in the violence that has spread through the region since the Gaza war began. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed that Israel "must be punished and it shall be," emphasizing the gravity of the attack, which he equated to an assault on Iranian soil.

According to the Iranian sources, Amirabdollahian signaled Tehran's willingness to de-escalate on the condition that certain demands are met, including a permanent Gaza ceasefire - a prospect that Israel has ruled out as it seeks to crush Hamas. Iran also sought the revival of talks over its disputed nuclear program, which have been stalled for nearly two years, and assurances that the United States would not get involved in the event of a "controlled attack" on Israel by Iran - a demand that the United States rejected in a response delivered via Oman.

Experts on Iranian diplomacy noted that such tough demands from Tehran are characteristic of the hard-nosed approach it takes in negotiations, but the contacts nevertheless point to Iran's interest in warding off major conflict. Gregory Brew, an analyst at Eurasia Group, described Khamenei as being "trapped in a strategic conundrum," forced to choose between restoring deterrence and credibility among its allies or risking a destructive Israeli response, likely with U.S. assistance.

The Iranian sources revealed that the U.S. has asked Iran to exercise restraint and allow space for diplomacy, cautioning Tehran that in the event of a direct attack, it will stand by Israel. In response, Iran believes that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aims to draw Tehran into a war, and therefore, its retaliation could be restrained, potentially relying on its allies and avoiding direct strikes on Israeli territory.

The U.S. Middle East envoy has reportedly called the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Iraq to ask them to deliver a message to Iran urging it to lower tensions with Israel. A source familiar with the issue suggested that the U.S. might agree to revive nuclear talks if it could prevent a conflagration, noting that the price of talks, even without reaching an agreement, would be well worth it if it minimized the risk of regional escalation that could draw in the United States.

Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group encapsulated Iran's dilemma as needing "to figure out how to retaliate in a way that it saves face without losing its head." He emphasized that Israel is much more unpredictable than the U.S., and the Supreme Leader is clearly concerned that an attack on Israel may fuel a counter-escalation he might have hoped to avoid, rather than delivering the desired deterrent effect.

As tensions continue to rise amid expectations of Iranian retaliation against Israel, the international community has called for restraint and de-escalation. Iran's mission to the United Nations suggested that a UN Security Council condemnation of Israel's attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus could have obviated the need for Iran to punish Israel. Meanwhile, the United States, Germany, and Russia have urged all actors in the region to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further escalation.
Violence erupted as troops entered the protest site Wednesday in the town of Kale in the Saigang region, a hotspot of unrest, where demonstrators were demanding the restoration of Aung San Suu Kyis civilian government. (Photo: Reuters)

In a significant victory for the anti-junta resistance in Myanmar, rebels have declared control over the critical border town of Myawaddy, forcing about 200 military personnel to withdraw to a bridge leading to Thailand. The capture of Myawaddy, a strategically important trading point with Thailand, is the latest in a string of rebel wins against the military-run government, which has been battling insurgencies on multiple fronts since last October.

The Karen National Union (KNU), one of Myanmar's most powerful ethnic armed organizations, announced that its armed wing, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), had captured the last remaining military base in Myawaddy on Wednesday night. "Today KNU-led joint resistance forces captured the remaining military base in Myawaddy," said Kyaw Zaw, a spokesperson for Myanmar's National Unity Government, a shadow administration of ousted lawmakers and anti-junta groups. "This is a crucial victory for our revolution since Myawaddy is an important border town for the junta, one of the main (sources of) income from border trade."

The retreat of junta troops in Myawaddy signals the potential loss of another key border trading outpost with direct highway access to parts of central Myanmar. Saw Taw Nee, spokesperson for the KNU, said that about 200 fleeing Myanmar soldiers had gathered at a border crossing into Thailand on Thursday, with news outlet Khit Thit reporting that Thai authorities were in talks with the soldiers to decide whether to grant them refuge.

The assault on Myawaddy began last week, with the KNU claiming that it had attacked a junta camp near the town, forcing some 500 security personnel and their families to surrender. Political analyst Than Soe Naing noted that the military has already lost control of areas along Myanmar's borders with Bangladesh, China, and India, while suffering a significant loss of manpower that has pushed it to introduce a draft for the first time. "Next the resistance forces might go after major towns across Myanmar," he added.

Border crossings in the area remain open for civilians, with a large number of people arriving in Thailand from Myanmar. Police official Borwornphop Soontornlekha, the immigration superintendent in Tak, the province where Mae Sot is located, said, "Usually there are about 2,000 people who cross into Mae Sot from Myawaddy each day but the last three days the number was almost 4,000 a day."

The Thai military has stepped up security on its side of the border, using army vehicles equipped with roof-mounted machine guns. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who earlier told Reuters that the Myanmar junta was "losing strength" and pushed to open talks with the regime, said on Thursday that the recent fighting should not spill into his country's airspace. Thailand remains neutral in the Myanmar conflict and is able to accept up to 100,000 people displaced by the turmoil, according to its foreign minister.

The loss of Myawaddy is a significant blow to the Myanmar junta, which has been struggling to maintain control since seizing power in a 2021 coup that sparked a nationwide armed resistance. The town, with a population of 200,000, is also home to multiple compounds that form billion-dollar online scam factories, many of them staffed by foreign nationals forced to work in conditions akin to modern-day slavery.

Concerns have been raised among resistance fighters and residents in Myawaddy about the possibility of the military launching an air offensive on the town, as it has done in other areas it has lost control of. A 45-year-old resident told CNN that fighter jets had been buzzing overhead and she had sent her eight children across the border to Thailand for their safety.

The fall of Myawaddy to the resistance forces underscores the junta's inability to reverse its defeats and regain initiative. "Step by step it's just watching these losses and not being able to do anything in response," said independent Myanmar researcher Kim Jolliffe. "That's why it further confirms the junta is going to fall because it's just not at any point displayed the ability to strategically reverse the situation and regain initiative."
Jill Biden received praises on social media following her appearance in an Oscar de la Renta dress. (Photo: Sergeant Kelli M. Baker/Released via The U.S. Army/Flickr/CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/))

First Lady Jill Biden drew attention at a recent White House state dinner.

President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, hosted a dinner for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife, Yuko Kishida, at the White House on Wednesday. According to WWD, the FLOTUS chose an Oscar de la Renta dress with sapphire ombre art nouveau crystal embroidery and a back split.

Biden wore minimal jewelry, only a pair of dangling earrings, but her dress shined enough. She wore her hair in a low bun and finished her look with sparkly stiletto heels that exactly complimented her dress. Meanwhile, the president kept things simple yet looked sharp in his black suit.

A video demonstrating how Jill's outfit was meticulously constructed was circulated on social media. Several netizens praised the FLOTUS' choice of clothing for the event.

"Gorgeous! The photographs didn't do it the justice it deserved," one person said. Another user concurred, saying, "As a lover of all bling dresses, this is gorgeous!"

"An amazing work of art! Wow!!!!" added a third person. "Simply gorgeous expert craftsmanship. @FLOTUS looked so lovely. Bravo @OscardelaRenta," another user wrote.

Another person said, "@FLOTUS is always gorgeous."

Jill has previously been spotted wearing Oscar de la Renta outfits. Jill attended her husband's 2020 victory celebration in a short-sleeve navy dress embroidered with flowers from the same design company, according to InStyle.

She wore a similar ensemble from the same designer on her Vogue cover in 2021. According to The Washington Post, Jill's Oscar de la Renta gown was a "expected choice" given that she has worn the brand since 2016.

Jill's communications director, Elizabeth Alexander, told Vogue in her 2021 cover story that the first lady does not work with a stylist. As a result, she frequently wears clothes designed by Brandon Maxwell and upcoming new designers.

"I think that's important: you try to lift up other people," Jill stated of her dress choices during the interview. "I like to choose from a diverse group of designers. When I was planning my Inauguration outfits, that's one of the things I considered."

When Jill was informed of an Instagram account that shared her ensembles, the FOTUS claimed she had not seen it and screamed, "Oh, great," while rolling her eyes.

"It's kind of surprising, I think, how much commentary is made about what I wear or if I put my hair in a scrunchie. I put my hair up! Or the stocking thing," she remarked. "It's amazing how much people pay attention to every little detail."

When President Joe Biden visited with a group of Muslim community leaders this week, he mentioned a recent chat he had with first wife Jill Biden about the violence in Gaza.

According to two witnesses at the conference, one of the guests informed the president that his wife was concerned about his choice to attend the event, considering the strong criticism Joe Biden has received for his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

According to the participants, Biden mentioned his own wife and closest confidant.

"It's got to stop," he recalled the first lady saying to him recently, according to Dr. Nahreen Ahmed, who was there in the room.

Another attendee, who did not want to be identified, told CNN that they remembered the president saying that the first lady uttered the words "Stop it. "Stop right now."

While the attendee believed the suggestion was that the first lady was calling for an end to the war, Ahmed was unsure if the first lady's comment was meant at the Israel-Hamas conflict as a whole or the rising civilian death toll in Gaza.

"It's got to stop," he recalled the first lady saying to him recently, according to Dr. Nahreen Ahmed, who was there in the room.

Another attendee, who did not want to be identified, told CNN that they remembered the president saying that the first lady uttered the words "Stop it. "Stop right now."

While the attendee believed the suggestion was that the first lady was calling for an end to the war, Ahmed was unsure if the first lady's comment was meant at the Israel-Hamas conflict as a whole or the rising civilian death toll in Gaza.

When asked about the president's comments, a White House official claimed there is "no daylight" between the pair on the topic, with both expressing indignation over civilian fatalities. The official said that Dr. Biden was not urging Israel to abandon its efforts against Hamas.

The New York Times was the first to report on the president's statements about the first lady.

A top adviser to the first lady said she is "heartbroken" about the deaths of civilians, including relief workers, and agrees with her husband that Israel needs to do more to secure civilian safety.

Just like the President, the First Lady is heartbroken over the attacks on aid workers and the on-going loss of innocent lives in Gaza, said Elizabeth Alexander, communications director for the first lady. They both want Israel to do more to protect civilians.

The president recounted his wife's message on the same evening that he condemned an Israeli strike in Gaza that killed seven World Central Kitchen relief workers, one of whom was a dual US-Canadian citizen.

The charity group was formed by chef Jose Andres, a personal friend of the Bidens. The president and first lady have both accompanied Andres on tours abroad, highlighting World Central Kitchen's efforts.

The first lady has only made a few public references to the crisis between Israel and Hamas.

When Hamas attacked Israel, Joe knew what to do, she told donors at event in Atherton, California, in November. The first lady said she wouldnt wish the tragic events of this last month on any American president, but Im so grateful that Joe is our president during these uncertain, unpredictable and tumultuous times.

She has also heard protestors' displeasure with her husband's handling of the conflict. The first lady was interrupted at least four times by pro-Palestinian protestors during a speech in Tucson, Arizona, last month, and supporters of a cease-fire have congregated outside some of her campaign engagements.
Jacob Beltran covers crime, breaking news and general assignments for the Express-News. He can be reached at jbeltran@express-news.net.

A San Antonio native, Jacob began his journalism career in 2010. He's worked for the student-run newspaper for San Antonio College, The Ranger, and for Texas A&M University-San Antonio, The Mesquite.

He enjoys video games, photography and exploring during his free time.
FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks at the White House in Washington, U.S. August 3, 2021. (Photo: REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst)

The United States has imposed travel restrictions on its staff in Israel and is urgently engaging with global partners to dissuade Iran from launching a retaliatory strike against Israel, as fears grow of a potential escalation into a wider regional conflict in the Middle East. The heightened concern comes in the wake of an attack on an Iranian facility in Syria, which Tehran claims was carried out by Israel and resulted in the deaths of 12 people, including a senior leader of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

In response to the growing threat, the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert on Thursday, prohibiting its employees and their family members from undertaking personal travel outside of the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice. The State Department emphasized that the limits were imposed "out of an abundance of caution," as officials closely monitor the evolving security situation in the region.

The Pentagon confirmed that Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, the commander of U.S. Central Command, had "moved up" a previously scheduled trip to Israel to meet with senior Israeli military leaders "due to recent developments." Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also held a phone conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday afternoon to discuss the current situation and reaffirm the U.S.'s unwavering commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and its proxies.

While the U.S. does not maintain direct diplomatic ties with Iran, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been actively engaging with his counterparts in countries that do, encouraging them to use their influence to dissuade Iran from taking military action. In his conversations with the foreign ministers of China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, Blinken emphasized that escalation is not in anyone's interest and urged these countries to convey this message to Iran.

President Joe Biden, during a White House press conference on Wednesday, acknowledged that Iran was "threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel" and assured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the U.S. commitment to his country's security remained "ironclad." Biden pledged to do everything in his power to protect Israel's security, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

U.S. officials have informed lawmakers on Capitol Hill that they believe Iran could retaliate against Israel in the coming days, potentially using drones and missiles to target "regional assets." Despite the administration's efforts to deter an Iranian strike, officials remain cautious, acknowledging that Iran could still change course.

The renewed concern over a widening conflict in the Middle East comes as tensions continue to escalate in the region. Israel has attacked numerous targets linked to Iran in recent years, primarily to disrupt arms transfers to Hezbollah and other proxy groups. However, the Israeli military has not claimed responsibility for the recent incident in Damascus, which occurred on April 1.

The growing tensions in the Middle East also coincide with somber Eid celebrations in Gaza, where Palestinians are grappling with severe food shortages despite Israeli promises to allow more humanitarian aid into the enclave. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated on Thursday that famine in Gaza was "imminent," echoing USAID Administrator Samantha Power's assessment that it was "credible" to believe that famine had already begun in the territory.

As the death toll in Gaza surpasses 33,600 people, according to the enclave's Health Ministry, in the six months since the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, the militant group's political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, expressed his desire for a cease-fire deal. However, talks to secure a truce and the release of remaining hostages remain deadlocked, further complicating the already fragile situation in the region.
"We are committed to ensuring the lawful use of the sea that all nations enjoy under international law," said Rear Admiral Jim Kirk, commander of the Nimitz carrier strike group. (Photo: REUTERS/Mike Blake/File Photo)

In a historic trilateral summit held at the White House on Thursday, President Joe Biden hosted the leaders of Japan and the Philippines, reaffirming the United States' "ironclad" defense commitments to both countries amid their ongoing territorial disputes with China. The meeting, which brought together Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, underscored the administration's efforts to bolster alliances in the Indo-Pacific region and counter Chinese aggression.

"When we stand as one, we're able to forge a better future for all," Biden declared in the East Room of the White House. The summit focused on the separate territorial disputes Japan and the Philippines have with China, specifically the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea and areas of the South China Sea, such as Second Thomas Shoal.

Tensions between the Philippines and China have escalated in recent months, with clashes occurring when Philippine attempts to resupply forces stationed on a grounded World War II-era navy transport ship on Second Thomas Shoal were met with Chinese Coast Guard ships firing water cannons, resulting in injuries to Filipino sailors and damage to vessels. China claims the shoal, which lies within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, as its sovereign territory, defying an international arbitration ruling.

In response to these incidents, Biden stated, "Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels, or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty." The 1951 mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines stipulates that both sides would help defend each other if either were attacked by a third party.

The trilateral summit also saw the announcement of several initiatives aimed at bolstering the Philippines' military capabilities and infrastructure. The White House revealed plans for a new rail and shipping corridor between the Philippines' Clark Air Base and Subic Naval Base, a move designed to send a clear message to Beijing. Additionally, the US and Japan pledged millions of dollars in funding for Open Radio Access Network technology and an upcoming Coast Guard patrol in the Indo-Pacific.

President Marcos emphasized the shared values and vision of the three countries, stating, "The Philippines, Japan, and the United States meet today as friends and partners bound by a shared vision in pursuit of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific." He added that the three nations are "linked by a profound respect for democracy, good governance, and the rule of law."

The summit comes as the region grapples with the uncertainty of China's aggressive posture toward Taiwan and the South China Sea, along with nuclear provocations from North Korea and its burgeoning relationship with Russia. These concerns have drawn regional allies closer to the US, with Japan serving as a key partner in Biden's alliance-building efforts in the Indo-Pacific.

Japan has significantly shifted its defense posture in recent years, committing to increasing defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2037 and acquiring American Tomahawk missiles to enhance its counterstrike capabilities. Meanwhile, the US has sought to reestablish strong ties with the Philippines, which had frayed under former President Rodrigo Duterte's pursuit of closer relations with China.

In the days leading up to the summit, the US, Japan, Philippines, and Australia conducted maritime military exercises near the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in response to alleged "harassment" by Chinese ships in the South China Sea.

As the three leaders expressed their "serious concern" over China's actions in the disputed waters, they reiterated the importance of respecting the sovereign rights of states within their EEZs, consistent with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The joint statement also highlighted their opposition to China's "dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea."
Intel considering the billion dollar Vietnam investment (Photo: Nathan Frandino/Reuters/File Photo)

China has dealt a fresh blow to U.S. chipmakers Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) by directing the country's largest telecom carriers to phase out foreign chips from their networks by 2027, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal on Friday. The move comes as Beijing ramps up efforts to replace Western-made technology with domestic alternatives amid escalating Sino-U.S. tensions and tightening U.S. curbs on high-tech exports to its rival.

Citing people familiar with the development, the Journal reported that Chinese officials had instructed state-owned mobile operators to inspect their networks for non-Chinese semiconductors and map out timelines to replace them earlier this year. The decision is expected to have a significant impact on Intel and AMD, whose shares were down more than 1.5% in premarket trading following the news.

China was Intel's largest market last year, accounting for more than 27% of its total revenue. The company declined to comment on the report, while AMD did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The move to phase out foreign chips is part of a broader push by Beijing to reduce its reliance on Western technology. In 2022, state-owned enterprises were instructed to replace office software systems with domestic products by 2027, marking the first time such specific deadlines were imposed, according to five brokerage firms that cited a September 2022 order from China's state asset regulator. Reuters could not independently verify the order.

The Financial Times had reported in March that China had introduced guidelines to phase out U.S. chips from Intel and AMD from government personal computers and servers. The new rules seek to block foreign technology from federal computers, including operating systems like Microsoft's Windows and other database software made overseas.

The shift towards domestic options has been made possible in part by the improved quality and stability of local chips, according to the WSJ report. Procurements by Chinese telecom carriers show they are increasingly switching to homegrown alternatives.

The U.S. has also been stepping up efforts to curb Chinese advanced chipmaking. Bloomberg reported that U.S. officials have requested South Korea, one of China's key trading partners, to adopt export controls on semiconductor tools. The U.S. is reportedly set to reveal the names of Chinese companies on its blacklist for receiving U.S.-made chipmaking equipment, with American companies being restricted from sending equipment to Chinese semiconductor factories.

As the chip wars between China and the United States continue to escalate, the impact on global technology supply chains and the semiconductor industry as a whole remains to be seen. The push for self-reliance in critical technologies by both nations is likely to reshape the landscape of the industry and have far-reaching consequences for businesses and consumers alike.

Intel and AMD, two of the world's leading chipmakers, find themselves caught in the crosshairs of this ongoing battle. The loss of the Chinese telecom market, which has been a significant source of revenue for both companies, could have a substantial impact on their bottom lines and force them to reevaluate their global strategies.
India has started a comprehensive review of its trade agreement with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), focusing on various products where taxes on input items exceed those on finished goods. This review aims to address several anomalies that have undermined domestic manufacturing, according to a report in The Economic Times (ET).

According to sources familiar with the matter who spoke to ET, discrepancies in import duties, rules of origin, and non-tariff barriers will be closely examined. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has asked for input from the industry to pinpoint products suffering from an inverted duty structure that puts local manufacturers at a disadvantage.

The ongoing review of the pact, which came into effect in 2010, is slated to conclude next year.

According to the ET report, an official said, "One round of physical negotiations has happened, and we have agreed on modalities of the overall review process of the pact. Both sides have different sets of expectations but at the end of it, we want deeper trade."

In order to boost local manufacturing, India has put in place certain measures such as production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes, higher import tariffs, and import monitoring, but several trade agreements negotiated earlier are seen as stumbling blocks.



India saw its trade deficit with Asean surge to $43.6 billion in FY23, a significant increase from $25.8 billion in 2021-22 and $5 billion in 2010-11. New Delhi is troubled by the trend of third countries channelling their exports through Asean members to leverage the duty benefits provided by the agreement.

The officials said that data is being collated on the inverted duty structure. One round of consultations with the industry has taken place on various issues. An official said, "It is an offensive interest of India to correct the anomalies and gauge the challenges on duty, rules of origin and non-tariff issues. How much we will be able to correct, the contours of that will be decided."

The ET reported that the Indian industry faces a disadvantage due to an inverted duty structure in specific products such as ferro alloys, aluminum, copper pipes and tubes, textile staple fibers, and certain chemical preparations.

Ajay Sahai, director-general of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations, said it is necessary to assess inverted duty structures in free-trade agreements, especially if the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) accounts for a predominant share of the overall imports.

The ET reported that under the pact, the two sides agreed to eliminate duties on about 75 per cent of goods and reduce tariffs on around 15 per cent goods, but the 10 Asean countries made different tariff elimination commitments. Singapore said it would offer 100 per cent tariff elimination, whereas Vietnam committed to much less, leading to a varied duty structure in the agreement.

Experts pointed out that addressing such anomalies during annual budget exercises for imports under the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) principle is a more straightforward process.

ET reported that Ajay Srivastava, co-founder of economic think-tank Global Trade Research Initiative, said, "However, with the increase in FTAs, which typically remove import tariffs on most finished products, correcting this imbalance has become nearly impossible. The Asean India FTA is no exception. Tariffs are already zero on most industrial products."

Currently, significant raw materials might need to be imported from non-Free Trade Agreement (FTA) countries at elevated most favoured nation (MFN) duties, whereas the end product could be accessible for import duty-free under an FTA.

The 10 members of the Asean are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Chief William McManus says a five-day suspension of officers who mistakenly beat and detained the wrong man wasnt a political move to appease critics. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL 2022

San Antonio Police Chief William McManus testified Thursday he did not pressure three of his officers to accept a five-day suspension for the amount of force they used on the wrong man while pursuing a suspect nearly 10 years ago.

That has never been an MO of mine, coercing anyone, McManus said during a trial for a civil lawsuit accusing the officers of using excessive force.

The chief also denied that his decision to discipline officers Carlos Chavez, Virgilio Gonzalez and an undercover officer identified only as Detective John Doe was meant to appease critics  as alleged by the officers and a supervisor for two of them.

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McManus said he believed the officers used more force than necessary to subdue Rogelio Roger Carlos III, now 51.

Carlos sued the three officers in federal court in 2016, alleging they used excessive force against him when they detained him two years earlier, on May 20, 2014.

His lawsuit initially included allegations of negligence against a member of a medical team. Carlos alleged that because of the injuries he sustained, he had lasting pain, and he underwent spinal surgery that resulted in complications, leaving him paralyzed and unable to walk 18 months after the incident.

U.S. District Judge Fred Biery dismissed those allegations before trial.

The policy in place at the time of the arrest allowed officers to strike suspects or individuals if they were combative or did not comply with police commands. The department did not begin using de-escalation techniques until after the 2014 incident.

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The officers testified Wednesday they felt compelled to sign documents agreeing to their suspension for violating the departments use-of-force policy, even though they did not think they broke the rules. They said they feared being removed from their specialized units, or even kicked out of the department, if they didnt sign.

McManus said he initially contemplated imposing a 15-day suspension but lowered it after hearing the officers mitigating factors during an internal investigation.

Typically, in my experience, as a street officer and supervisor, the more officers that are on the scene  the less force is typically needed, McManus said, explaining why he believed the three violated policy.

If its a one-on-one, and I have to fight you, then theres going to be a lot of blows exchanged and whatever. But if you have more than one officer, two officers, three officers, then its easier to restrain someone and requiring less blows, less strikes, he said.

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Sgt. Mark Delgado, who supervised the SWAT unit at the time, testified later Thursday that he did not believe the officers violated policy but said he personally apologized at the scene to Carlos for being targeted by mistake.

Officers going after the wrong person while looking for a suspect happens a lot, actually, Delgado said.

He said Carlos initially told him he understood it was a mistake and how the officers acted because he has family in law enforcement. Delgado said he was surprised that Carlos filed an internal affairs complaint against the officers.

He sat in on one of the San Antonio Police Department hearings leading up to McManus discipline decision.

At the hearing, Delgado said he heard a conversation between the chief and someone Delgado believed was a city attorney, who advised McManus, You have to give them something.

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It just seemed to me like (McManus) didnt want to give them any discipline, but he was getting a direction to do that, Delgado testified.

Paul Bernal, a lawyer representing the officers, asked why Delgado believed McManus had to impose the discipline.

I believed it to be political reasons, Delgado answered. Because he felt he had to give them some, just because of the optics  how it looks to the public.

The internal affairs sergeant who investigated Carlos complaint also said he did not believe the officers violated policy, according to his deposition, which was played for the jury.

MORE COVERAGE: Man injured in mistaken police encounter files suit in federal court

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Despite McManus finding, lawyers hired by the city of San Antonio to defend the officers argued they did nothing wrong because the constitutional standard for finding them liable for excessive force is different from the standard for SAPDs policy.

Under the Graham standard, a national standard established by prior court rulings, the officers are allowed to use reasonable force to subdue a fleeing suspect who may pose a danger, the defense lawyers argued. Even if the jury finds the officers used excessive force, the lawyers said, the officers are shielded by the legal principle of qualified immunity and are not liable for violating Carlos civil rights.

The officers version of what transpired in their encounter with Carlos clashes with his testimony. The incident occurred before SAPD officers began using body-worn cameras.

Undisputed is that Carlos was mistakenly targeted by Detective Doe, a drug task force officer who was acting on information relayed by another task force detective who wasnt in San Antonio but in Lytle.

Doe then passed on information to members of SAPDs SWAT team, who were asked to help Doe arrest the potentially violent suspect.

One of the SWAT team members testified he tried to pull the suspect over along Texas 151 in a marked unit, but the suspect fled in a Toyota Camry before abandoning the vehicle in a parking lot behind Rudys Barbecue. The suspect, in a white T-shirt and blue jeans, ran on foot and hid in a wooded area near the restaurant, testimony established.

Carlos was nearby, dressed in a white T-shirt with an emblem and dark blue shorts, examining the construction of a pediatric clinic that his then-wife and her sister were having built at Westover Hills and Rodgers Road.

Carlos testified that a pickup burst through the construction site, headed toward him and stopped a few feet away. A man later identified as Detective Doe got out and yelled at him to get on the ground.

He said he was confused but began to crouch with his hands out in front of him after seeing Chavez and Gonzalez approaching from another side. But, he said, Doe tackled him, and then all three officers punched and kicked him. Carlos said one of the officers pressed his knee to Carlos head using his full weight.

Chavez and Gonzalez acknowledged punching Carlos because they claimed he was not complying and he was turning his face or body side to side when he was on the ground. Chavez also acknowledged using his knee across Carlos left shoulder to hold him down but said he never put it on his head, as Carlos alleged.

Doe, however, denied using a closed fist to strike Carlos. Doe said he kicked at an object at Carlos side that the officer initially believed was a gun, not Carlos himself. The object was later found to be Carlos iPhone, which he used to take pictures of the construction site.

The suspect they were seeking was found hiding in a wooded area near the scene after Carlos had been handcuffed and detained. Carlos injuries included a bloodied, scraped and swollen face, but he declined to be taken to the hospital at the time, SAPD has previously said.

All three officers testified Wednesday that during the internal investigation, which included hearings or meetings to present mitigating evidence, they felt they had to sign documents agreeing to the suspension to save their jobs  even though they felt they did not violate departmental policy or do anything wrong.
A San Antonio police detective will serve a 15-day suspension without pay for misconduct during a trial last October. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL 2022

A San Antonio police detective has been suspended without pay after being accused of inappropriate and unprofessional behavior while testifying in court last October.

Detective Steven D. Rivas will serve a 15-day suspension starting May 4 and ending May 18, according to a suspension notice.

District Attorney Joe Gonzales, left, offers his hand to Police Chief William McManus and says that they will work together during a public safety town hall at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church on Monday, Sept. 11, 2023. The meeting was hosted by Councilperson Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia. Billy Calzada/Staff photographer

According to police records, on Oct. 6, Rivas attended a pretrial meeting for County Court No. 12 with a Bexar County assistant district attorney. At the meeting, the assistant DA said Rivas voiced his opinion on the jury for a trial.

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Well (the) jurors are retarded, so you dont know what theyre going to think, Rivas said.

He would then double down on his comments about the jury.

What if they dont believe you? Theyre so retarded. You never know what kind of jury youre going to get, he added.

Several days later, on Oct. 11, Rivas attended a trial in Judge Erica Dominguezs County Court No. 6. While testifying on the stand, he was seen slouched, tired and aggravated and frustrated. He was also seen leaning his head back with his eyes closed.

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Reports also revealed that Rivas was on his phone while being questioned on the stand.

On the same day, prosecutors reported that Rivas, who was loud and angry, said to them in the hall, This (expletive) always happens, this is why  SAPD hates the (expletive) DAs office. The report doesnt state what sparked his anger.

Rivas also left the courtroom without being excused from the witness stand to speak with a division chief at the DAs office. While at the office, Rivas said he would tell the truth, and if it resulted in a mistrial, it would be no sweat off my back.

The next day, Rivas took the stand, where he had a hard time explaining his body camera footage. After answering questions from the prosecutors, he turned to Judge Dominguez and said, Is that a better answer than yesterday?

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First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press A stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver/College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press This still of an ABC13 video shows where a truck crashed into a Texas DPS building in Brenham, Texas, in what officials have called a criminal act. Courtesy of ABC13 Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. Lekan Oyekanmi/AP Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. Lekan Oyekanmi/AP First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. (AP Photo/Lekan Oyekanmi) Lekan Oyekanmi/Associated Press Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. (AP Photo/Lekan Oyekanmi) Lekan Oyekanmi/Associated Press First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press A stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver/College Station Eagle via AP) Meredith Seaver/Associated Press

One person died and 13 other people were injured Friday morning when a stolen semi-truck crashed into a Department of Public Safety building in Brenham, authorities said.

The man accused of stealing the truck had been denied a commercial drivers license at the DPS office the day before, they said. Clenard Parker, 42, of Chappell Hill, was arrested at the scene of the crash, department officials said at a roadside news conference.

The charges against Parker werent immediately available. He was in custody in Washington County. The crash is being investigated by the Texas Rangers.

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MORE ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Texas ranks eighth in fatalities related to speeding, report shows

Authorities didnt name the person who died. Three people who were in the building were flown to hospitals in College Station and Houston, and three more were brought to hospitals by ambulance. One of the hospitalized people died, authorities said.

Eight other people in the building received medical treatment, but werent taken to the hospital, according to DPS.

A DPS spokesman said Parker visited the DPS office on Thursday, and was prevented from renewing his commercial driver's license. It was unclear why he was turned away.

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Parker has a single felony conviction stemming from a 2002 arrest for arson in Washington County, according to court records.

Before he crashed into the building, Parker was being chased by a Washington County Sheriffs Office deputy and other police, who had spotted the stolen truck. The truck first evaded police by driving west on U.S. 290, then looped under the highway and headed back east on the feeder road, according to DPS. The truck then took a hard right turn and drove into the front of the DPS office.

Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura called the crash a senseless tragedy and credited police for preventing more people from being killed by stopping the truck as it backed up following the initial crash.

If he had veered a little bit to the left a second time, there would have been a collapse of that building, which would have resulted in a lot more injuries and possible death, Kenjura said.

State Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, who represents Brenham and Washington County, called for Parker to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

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This deliberate, heinous act is a reminder of the dangerous work done by our law enforcement and licensing agencies that work to provide public safety and services, Kolkhorst said.

Kolkhorst, a Brenham native, said she had gotten her driver's license at the ruined office.

This will not be tolerated, she said. Not in my hometown and not in my home state.

TV news helicopters over the scene showed the 18-wheeler in the parking lot of the DPS building, which included offices for both licensing and highway patrol. The truck appeared to be carrying rebar on a flatbed trailer.

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Brenham is about 75 miles northwest of downtown Houston.
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Cayla Harris covers Texas politics and government for the San Antonio Express-News and Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at cayla.harris@hearst.com.

She also served as training director of the Hearst Fellowship Program, a two-year initiative allowing early career journalists to rotate through local newsrooms.

She previously covered New York state government for the Albany Times Union. She grew up in New Jersey and is a 2019 graduate of the George Washington University, where she studied journalism and Spanish.
China, Germany financial cooperation yields fruitful results

Xinhua) 10:38, April 12, 2024

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- China and Germany financial cooperation has achieved fruitful results in the past 40 years, officials said Thursday at the China-Germany Dialogue Forum on Financial Cooperation in Beijing.

"Up to now, the German government has committed a total of about 10 billion euros in loans to China, supporting more than 300 projects that cover 31 Chinese provincial-level regions," said Chinese Finance Minister Lan Fo'an at the forum.

These projects involve many industries and fields of the national economy such as ecological protection, energy and transportation, urban infrastructure, providing strong support for promoting the economic and social development of the regions where the projects are implemented, Lan said.

At the forum, State Secretary in the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development Jochen Flasbarth said he hoped that both countries will cherish the trust established over the past 40 years, continue efforts for a closer cooperation in the fiscal and financial fields, and jointly cope with challenges.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Anthony Franze is a native Texan and very passionate about covering any weather that is thrown at him. He can be reached at anthony.franze@express-news.net.

Anthony earned a degree in Meteorology from Valparaiso University in 2017. He has worked as a broadcast meteorologist for six years, one at NBC Montana and the next five at NewsWest 9 in Midland before joining the Express-News in July 2023.

In his free time, Anthony enjoys watching sports, checking out local restaurants and breweries, and getting outside whenever the heat allows for it. If you have any story ideas, questions about the weather or restaurant suggestions, drop him a line.
Betolar scoops Finnish innovation award

Suzanne Starbuck By 12 April 2024

Betolar has won the Finnish Chemical Societys Circular Economy Innovation Award in recognition of its chemistry business idea that offers both environmental and economic benefits. Betolar's method, industrial waste and side streams can be converted into low-carbon building materials for the needs of mining and construction. This geopolymer-based building material can reduce the carbon footprint by using standardised industrial side streams, such as fly ash and blastfurnace slag.

Product development is constantly looking for new side streams to achieve sufficiently large production volumes. Betolar's products have succeeded in reducing CO 2 emissions from raw materials by up to 80 per cent compared to traditional concrete.

Betolar's solution is an excellent example of a business that relies on scientific research and aims to respond to globally significant sustainability challenges, according to the Finnish Chemical Society. The utilisation of side streams requires knowledge of the properties and quality of the raw materials used and the new products manufactured from them, as well as analysis methods suitable for their research.

It is important for us to receive recognition from the scientific community. In our research and development activities, we have invested especially in scientific research data. In recent years, we have recruited top professionals with significant academic track record. One in three of our employees has a doctoral degree, says Riku Kytomaki, CEO of Betolar.

The award was presented at the ChemBio Finland 2024 event at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre.

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National Cement secures finance facility

Suzanne Starbuck By 12 April 2024

Kenyas National Cement has secured a KES4.3bn (US$33.1m) facility from Stanbic Bank Kenya to finance a debt undertaken to construct a new clinker plant in West Pokot, reports The Star. According to the bank, the facility is designed to partially refinance National Cements foreign currency liabilities resulting from its recent expansion activities.

This transaction underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the expansion efforts of leading corporates in Kenya,'' said Alakh Kohli, head of corporate investment at Stanbic Bank Kenya. The debt facility is expected to empower National Cement to continue delivering high-quality construction inputs at competitive prices, furthering economic and infrastructure development initiatives.

The West Pokot clinker plant was finally launched earlier this month after lengthy delays. The new plant will process up to 6000tpd of clinker or 2Mta, with clinker deliveries sent to finish grinding at Simba Cements Eldoret grinding plant, which is currently under construction.









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A New York parent who wants to marry their own adult offspring is suing to overturn laws hindering the incestuous practice. The parent called it a matter of "individual autonomy."

Parent Sues to Marry Adult Child

According to court papers, the determined parent would like to remain anonymous because their request is "an action that a large segment of society views as morally, socially and biologically repugnant." The parent contends in the Manhattan federal court claim issued on April 1, "Through the enduring bond of marriage, two persons, whatever relationship they might otherwise have with one another, can find a greater level of expression, intimacy and spirituality," reported Fox News.

The papers do not expound on the parent and their adult child. It did not identify their ages, genders, hometowns, or the nature of their relationship. According to the filing, the proposed spouses are biological parent and child, the proposed spouses are adults, and the proposed spouses cannot procreate as a pair.

Incest Is a Felony in New York

Under New York laws, incest is a third-degree felony in the stated. A person guilty could be sentenced to up to four years in prison. An incestuous marriage would be void, and the parties involved will be facing fines and further prison time.

The filing refers to the pairing as Parent and Adult Child Non-Procreationable or PAACNP. It further adds that parent-and-adult-child couples for whom procreation is impossible could aspire to the transcendent purposes of marriage and find fulfillment in the highest form, reported LAD Bible.

The anonymous parent seeks a judge to declare the incest laws as unenforceable and unconstitutional to be allowed for a PAACNP couple. Meanwhile, according to Manhattan family and matrimonial law attorney Eric Wrubel, it will likely not be doable. "The closest you can come is Woody Allen, and that wasn't his daughter, it was an adopted child whom he never adopted and it still turns people's stomachs," reported Daily Caller.

Real Reason Why Kim Kardashian Finally Filed for Divorce From Kanye West

Individuals seeking to get married in five towns have to declare that there are no legal impediments to the marriage. Also, marriage licenses in the five boroughs necessitate potential spouses to list their birth parents. According to the parent behind the lawsuit, they would "sustain emotional harm" if they become hitched as a Parent and Adult Child Non-Procreationable couple imposed by the current laws.

A state appeals court in 2014 unanimously approved a case involving a woman wedded to her mother's half-brother. It noted the genetic relationship was the equivalent of first cousins. However, that ruling cited "the almost universal horror" with which a parent-child marital union is viewed.

The parent remarked they would like to propose to their adult child but cannot due to current laws. According to New York University law professor Professor Sylvia Law, she does not believe there is a big popular movement. However, she thinks so long as they have kept records, there have been previous cases. She continued it is an area where she believes the majority of people would say the government has a right to implement the rules, even if they do not apply to all situations.

Kim Kardashian's Wedding Ring, off on First Instagram Post Since Divorce Reports
The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce announces Laken Shattuck's appointment as its new director of public policy. In this role, Ms. Shattuck will lead the Chamber's governmental affairs and relations strategies at the local, state and federal levels.Officials said, "With a dynamic background in government relations, Ms. Shattuck brings a wealth of experience to the Chattanooga Chamber. Most recently, she served as the field representative for U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty, overseeing 13 counties in southeast Tennessee.In this role, Ms. Shattuck built relationships with key regional stakeholders, businesses and community leaders.""We are thrilled to welcome Laken to our team," said Charles Wood, president & CEO. "Her extensive experience in government relations and deep understanding of the community make her a valuable asset in advancing our member businesses legislative interests and supporting economic growth in our region."Ms. Shattuck holds a masters degree in public administration and public policy from Tennessee State University and brings over half a decade of experience at both the state and federal levels of government to the Chattanooga Chamber."I am committed to promoting regional economic growth and working with the Chambers public policy committee to help further their work in executing the Chambers legislative priorities," said Ms. Shattuck.
Six student leaders in Baylors Community Service program were selected to travel to Kingston, Jamaica over spring break where they worked in an early childhood center and the squatter community of Ferry.

An important component of the Jamaica Trip are the large duffel bags, which are loaded with school supplies and transported to Kingston for children who live in Ferry. "This year we brought 100 backpacks full of school supplies so the children in Ferry are well prepared for school," said junior Meghan Royal.

Each year, students stay in the Immaculate Conception Convent, and travel to the community of Ferry and visit children and staff at the Ferry Basic School. Other stops included a visit to an art studio and the Home for the Aged in Trenchtown and Bethany Village, a community that provides care and housing for people who have disabilities.

Baylor junior Alisha Chandra said building relationships with people even in a short amount of time was an impactful experience. "I think how easy it is to make a true human connection if you just take the time to really get to know someone. For me, I think I was able to establish so many genuine relationships with people in such a short time, even on the last day, just because I took maybe five minutes to get to know them, actually interact with them, learn about them, and write my phone number on a piece of paper for them."

"Part of Baylor's mission statement is to make a positive difference in the world ...and that is reflected in our trip because our whole aspect going over there was a servant leadership trip," added Meghan. "We're not just going over to Jamaica to have fun. We're there to help serve the people of Jamaica and help make them happy by going to school, giving them the tool of education and making that difference."
A New Hampshire county chairman for the Trump campaign once threatened to kill his police boss and rape the cop's wife and children, according to stunning allegations from authorities.

Jonathan Stone, a former New Hampshire police officer, has been a part of Trump's campaign in the state since 2016 when he gifted Trump an inscribed AR-15 assault rifle. Stone is the owner of gun store Black Op Arms in Claremont, New Hampshire.

Stone was ousted from the Claremont Police Force 10 years ago after allegedly threatening to kill the department chief  and his colleagues  and rape the chief's wife and kids in retaliation for his suspension over an alleged relationship with a high school girl, according to a report from a police internal affairs investigation, which was obtained by the New Hampshire Center for Public Information Journalism.

The report was released following a lawsuit by the center demanding the information.

Stone, now a second-term state representative, was appointed as Trump's campaign chair in Sullivan County last summer.

He did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

Trump's New Hampshire state campaign chair, Stephen Stepanek, told the HuffPost he didn't know about Stone's alleged background until reading news accounts of it.

"He's been a Trump supporter for a long time, and he's been a state representative, and he had, as far as we were concerned, what looked like a great background," said Stepanek.

As for Stone's future with the campaign, "We haven't made any decisions yet," he added.

He told HuffPost that any action will likely be up to Trump's top campaign aides at Mar-a-Lago.
Governor Bill Lee signed the Tennessee Disability and Aging Act today, legislation that merges Tennessees Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) and Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD), creating a new Department of Disability and Aging (DDA). The bill received unanimous, bipartisan legislative support and was backed by numerous stakeholders.When I became governor, I made a commitment to shrink the size of government, ensuring we efficiently and effectively serve all Tennesseans, said Governor Lee.Creating a new Department of Disability and Aging is one example of our work to deliver on that promise, enabling better coordination and stronger advocacy.Officials said, "Adults 65 years and older are the fastest-growing demographic in Tennessee. With a rapidly increasing aging population, the state must ensure it has the infrastructure in place to serve the needs of older adults."TCAD is Tennessees federally designated 'state unit on aging,' currently overseeing Older Americans Act programs and providing leadership relative to aging issues throughout state government. Tennessee is one of two states that did not previously house its 'state unit on aging' within a cabinet-level agency."Additionally, there are many similarities in the supports and services DIDD and TCAD provide to enhance the quality of life and independence of the populations they serve. Unifying these two agencies will provide for better coordination on areas of shared priorities."The consolidation of these government agencies will enhance coordination and advocacy for all Tennesseans to live and age with as much independence and dignity as possible. I appreciate Governor Lee for his commitment to ensuring our government operates efficiently while also providing better services to our citizens, said Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson.Tennessee is a model for the nation when it comes to making government work more cooperatively and efficiently for our citizens. Unifying these agencies will enable better coordination and stronger advocacy helping all Tennesseans live and age with as much independence as possible, said House Majority Leader William Lamberth.The merging of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities with the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability is an advantageous step in ensuring all Tennesseans can live and age with independence. I was pleased to sponsor this legislation so both individuals with disabilities and our seniors can be represented by a Commissioner and Department that totally focuses on issues and services important to them. I am confident the newly formed Department of Disability and Aging will offer exceptional service and provide a voice for these valued citizens, said Senator Becky Massey.People with disabilities and older adults should have the opportunity to age in place while having independence, health, and a high quality of life. Im excited to work with our partners in both communities to ensure the Department of Disability and Aging is doing all it can to support people to live the lives they envision for themselves, said Commissioner Brad Turner, Department of Disability and Aging.We are witnessing a significant milestone with the creation of a new cabinet level department merging the state department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and the Commission on Aging and Disabilities. This is an important step forward for the aging community for today, tomorrow and generations to come. Community advocates representing the 129,000 Tennesseans living with Alzheimers disease and related dementias in addition to the over 360,000 family caregivers celebrate the actions taken here today," said Janice Wade-Whitehead, Tennessee Commission on Aging & Disability, president & CEO of Alzheimers Tennessee.
A man who was shot at the Skatepark near Finley Stadium early Friday morning has died.



Chattanooga Police responded at 2:57 a.m. to a person shot call in the 1700 block of Reggie White Boulevard. When officers arrived, they found a man with life-threatening injuries.





Chattanooga Fire and Hamilton County EMS responded to the scene. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital.





The CPD reported that the shooting investigation was upgraded to a homicide case.
On April 11, Bryan College hosted its annual Bryan Opportunity Scholarship Program Dinner in the Portman Ballroom of the Westin Chattanooga. The Opportunity Scholarship Program is designed to make a private, Christian education at Bryan College accessible to academically qualified Tennessee residents who demonstrate significant financial need. Thirty students currently receive funds through the program, and their average household income amounts to $23,096.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear from two scholarship students this year, seniors Fisher Heil and Hosanna Baker. Fisher grew up as a missionary kid in South America and spoke about often feeling out of place and struggling to find belonging. Hosanna shared about growing up with an abusive father while living in a camper truck before her mother fled to Tennessee with her and her siblings. Both students expressed how much the opportunity to attend Bryan has meant to them and how the people at Bryan have influenced their lives. I frequently get asked my favorite thing about Bryan, said Hosanna. It's the same answer every time: the people.

After dinner, Alicia Williamson Garcia and the Bryan College Chorale presented a powerful concert of worship music. Alicia has a legacy connection to Bryan through her mentor, Kay Arthur, who was mentored by Irving Jensen, professor of Bible at Bryan College in the 1970s and 80s. Her son, Michael Keeko Garcia is a 2023 alumnus, and Alicia now serves as the chair of the Performing Arts Advisory Board. Alicia and the Bryan Chorale gave a powerful performance, leading attendees to praise Christ above all.

By the end of the evening, $282,734.03 was raised for the Bryan Opportunity Scholarship Program. The dinner was an incredible evening to focus on the people whose lives are touched by this scholarship and on how those dollars are given to Bryan to impact those lives, said Vice President of Advancement David Holcomb 94. The generosity of our donors is a vehicle to educational, emotional, and spiritual growth in the lives of our students. Bryan College is grateful for our sponsors and donors who are aiding us in educating students like Fisher and Hosanna to become servants of Christ to make a difference in todays world.
Girls Inc. of Chattanooga announces the appointment of Michael Cole as their new fiscal/finance manager effective this past Monday.Officials said, "With an extensive background in finance leadership and a passion for organizational growth and sustainability, Michael brings invaluable expertise to our team."As the fiscal/finance manager, Michael will oversee the financial health and functions of Girls Inc. of Chattanooga, ensuring alignment with our organizational goals and strategic vision.His responsibilities include managing financial procedures, processes, reporting systems, and budgets to support our mission of empowering girls to succeed."Michael's impressive career spans over 20 years, during which he has held diverse leadership roles, including vice president of business operations, vice president of finance and operations, and corporate accounting manager. He is recognized for his strategic planning abilities, financial acumen and track record of achieving record-setting financial growth."In his previous roles, Michael has demonstrated his commitment to organizational success through innovative initiatives and strategic partnerships. As president and CEO at the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, he led re-branding efforts, increased membership and maximized ROI for special events. As vice president of business operations at Tennessee College of Applied Technology, he streamlined operations, boosted productivity and aligned financial resources with academic objectives.""We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the Girls Inc. of Chattanooga team," said Toccora Petersen, CEO of Girls Inc. of Chattanooga. "His wealth of experience and dedication to our mission make him an invaluable addition to our leadership team. We look forward to his contributions as we continue to inspire and equip more girls in our community."Mr. Cole holds a master of public administration from Golden Gate University in San Francisco and a bachelor of science in business administration from Lee University in Cleveland.
Constitutional amendment gives judges more discretion for bail

A proposed amendment to the Tennessee Constitution that would increase public safety by allowing bail to be denied for more violent crimes advanced out of the House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee this week.

House Joint Resolution 859, filed by House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, would expand a judges ability to deny bail for certain violent crimes, including terrorism, second-degree murder, aggravated rape, and grave torture. Current law limits judges ability to deny bail to first-degree murder charges.

Expanding the option for a judge to deny bail for violent offenders helps ensure the safety of all Tennesseans, said State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, who is guiding passage of the legislation. By keeping individuals charged with violent crimes in custody, there is a reduced risk of them posing a threat to all Tennesseans.

The proposed amendment would also increase judicial transparency by requiring a judge or magistrate to explain their reasons for allowing or denying bail for a defendant.

The Tennessee General Assembly in 2022 passed truth in sentencing reform, which requires offenders convicted in eight categories of violent crimes to serve 100 percent of their court-imposed sentences before their release. That same year, murders declined 14.6 percent statewide while rapes declined 10.6 percent and kidnappings fell nearly 12 percent when compared to 2021, according to the TBI.

House Joint Resolution 859 will now go to the Finance, Ways and Means Committee for further consideration. Any proposed amendment to the Tennessee Constitution must first be approved by two separate General Assemblies before it can be placed on the ballot for voters to decide.

Republicans protect financial aid eligibility for nursing students

The Tennessee House of Representatives this week unanimously passed legislation ensuring students in licensed practical nursing (LPN) programs can still qualify for federal financial aid assistance.

House Bill 2378, sponsored by State Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes, R-East Ridge, requires the Tennessee Board of Nursing to set a minimum of 1,296 clock hours, or an equivalent number of credit hours, for practical nursing programs offered at public institutions of higher education in the state. A minimum of 980 hours is currently required.

Beginning July 1, colleges that offer LPN programs longer than the minimum set by state law or regulatory board will no longer qualify for federal financial aid. House Bill 2378 will ensure students enrolled in the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) LPN programs, which exceed the current state minimum requirement, remain eligible to receive financial assistance.

It is essential that Tennesseans have opportunities to pursue a career in health care here at home, Helton-Haynes said. This legislation will ensure students can continue to afford to attend one of the many LPN programs offered across our state. This will not only benefit them professionally, but it will improve overall health care in Tennessee.

Private institutions would still be able to maintain their current curriculum lengths in accordance with the Board of Nursings rules, according to the legislation.

The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), operated by the TBR, is the single largest provider of LPNs in the state. During the 2022-23 academic year, 1,186 new LPNs graduated statewide.

Tennessee faced a shortfall of 15,700 registered nurses in 2021, according to a report from the Tennessee Hospital Association. The shortage is expected to lead to increased demand for LPNs statewide.

House Bill 2378 was unanimously approved by the House chamber on April 8. The companion version of the legislation is still advancing in the Senate.

Grant program helps solve violent crimes

Legislation offering additional support to solve more violent crimes in Tennessee advanced out of the Criminal Justice Committee this week.

The Tennessee Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods Support Act (TN-VICTIMS), sponsored by State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, would provide grants to law enforcement agencies to fund strategies and initiatives aimed at improving violent crime clearance rates and supporting victims statewide.

Keeping Tennesseans safe remains a top priority for Republicans in the General Assembly, Russell said. The TN-VICTIMS Act will provide valuable assistance to law enforcement agencies across our state to ensure violent criminals are quickly brought to justice. This will improve public safety and provide victims with the support they deserve.

The grant program would be developed by the Department of Finance and Administrations Office of Criminal Justice Programs, in consultation with the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission, the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). All law enforcement agencies in Tennessee would be eligible to receive funding.

According to the most recent TBI data, 502,189 crimes were reported statewide in 2022. Of those cases, 179,960, or 35.8 percent, resulted in arrests.

House Bill 2794 is scheduled to be heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee on April 16.

General Assembly votes to expedite evidence collection in DUI cases

The General Assembly this week passed legislation allowing for faster and more effective collection of blood samples involving individuals suspected of driving under the influence in Tennessee.

House Bill 2386, sponsored by State Rep. Ron Gant, R-Piperton, allows an officer to execute a search warrant anywhere in the state for medical records or test to determine the alcohol or drug content of a persons blood. The legislation also gives magistrates increased authority to issue warrants to recover evidence if at least one element of the crime occurred within their jurisdiction.

Because evidence of alcohol and drugs metabolizes and dissipates from the bloodstream quickly, this bill will provide for a timely or more efficient collection of blood evidence to support the effective prosecution of DUI, vehicular assault, and vehicular homicide offenses, Gant said Monday.

Additionally, the bill encourages hospitals and health care providers to take a blood sample as soon as possible when a warrant is issued. The sample should also be provided to law enforcement expeditiously.

There were 7,774 wrecks in Tennessee that involved impaired drivers in 2022, according to the most recent data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. There were 575 fatalities and 4,964 injuries as a result.

House Bill 2386 will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

House passes massive franchise tax cut, adds transparency disclosure

The House chamber this week passed legislation cutting $400 million in taxes by simplifying Tennessees franchise tax on a business net worth.

House Bill 1893, sponsored by House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, removes the property measure from the states franchise tax calculations and authorizes the Department of Revenue to issue refunds to taxpayers who have paid the tax based on property located in the state.

We have businesses moving from all over the country and all over the world to Tennessee because of our low tax structure, Lamberth said. The primary goal of this is to keep that strong business community here so that every hardworking Tennessean not only has a job, but has multiple jobs to pick from and can be competitive for those jobs and get higher wages.

An amendment added to the House version of the bill requires any refunds to be made public. It also allows companies who wish to stay under the current tax structure for the tax period ending before Dec. 31, 2023 to do so. If a business applying for a refund has also received economic credits or incentives from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, the credit amount would be applied to the refund first.

The Senate previously approved the legislation but declined to adopt the House amendment. A conference committee will be appointed to work out the differences between the bills in both chambers.

General Assembly expands newborn Safe Haven program

The General Assembly recently approved legislation expanding Tennessees newborn Safe Haven program.

House Bill 1922, sponsored by State Rep. Ed Butler, R-Rickman, adds participating emergency communications centers and nursing homes in counties without hospitals to the list of approved locations for safe haven baby boxes and drop-off locations.

This is an important step in ensuring rural communities have access to newborn safe haven boxes, Butler said. This program allows suffering mothers to safely surrender their child in a place where proper care can be given. Tennessee is a pro-life state and I encourage mothers to take the necessary steps to keep their children, born and unborn, safe and healthy in times of crisis. I thank my colleagues for supporting this life-saving legislation.

House Bill 1922 would ensure emergency communications centers and nursing homes are subject to the same policies other facilities are bound by under Tennessees Safe Haven law.

Tennessee currently has three Safe Haven baby boxes, located at fire stations in Jackson, Knoxville, and Kingston. Baby boxes allow mothers to securely and anonymously surrender their child in a continuously monitored safety device that allows medical staff members to care for the baby quickly.

Current law allows mothers to surrender their newborn up to 14 days after birth without fear of prosecution at hospitals, birthing centers, community health clinics, walk-in clinics, EMS facilities, and 24-hour fire and law enforcement facilities.

More than 130 newborn babies have been safely surrendered in the state since the Safe Haven law was enacted in 2001, according to Secret Safe Place for Newborns of Tennessee. House Bill 1922 now heads to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

Wheelchair repair bill advances in the House

Legislation aimed at speeding up the repair process for Tennesseans who use wheelchairs advanced out of the Commerce Committee this week.

House Bill 2147, sponsored by State Rep. Michael Hale, R-Smithville, allows for simple, non-clinical repairs to be made independently without voiding the wheelchairs warranty. The legislation also allows for annual preventative maintenance visits to be conducted by a wheelchair supplier.

These preventative wheelchair repair visits will help extend the life of the chairs, while guaranteeing people are not unnecessarily burdened with repairs that couldve been caught early, Hale said.

Currently, wheelchair repairs must be performed by an authorized technician with their supplier, or the warranty could be voided. The process can be time-consuming and prevent users from going to work or being out in the community.

House Bill 2147 will now go to the Calendar and Rules Committee before heading to the House floor for a vote.

Attainable housing legislation advances

Legislation incentivizing developers to build more multi-family attainable housing in Tennessee advanced out of the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee this week.

House Bill 2363, sponsored by State Rep. Dale Carr, R-Sevierville, would give city leaders the opportunity to create a voluntary attainable housing incentive program to encourage developers to build in their area.

This bill allows local planning commissions to reset the regulations if they want to, or need to, create more attainable multi-family housing in their city, Carr said.

The legislation would allow city officials to work with property developers to adjust some of the typical building requirements, like the amount of parking spaces, so the developer can rent out at an economical rate. The multi-family housing accommodations must be designed for residential use, have at least five units per site, and not have detached units.

House Bill 2363 is scheduled to be heard in the Calendar and Rules Committee on April 18.

Visitation rights for hospital patients passes both chambers

The General Assembly this week passed legislation ensuring hospital patients in Tennessee are not denied visitation from an individual authorized to make health care decisions for them.

House Bill 1883, sponsored by State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, allows individuals given power of attorney to make health care decisions for a patient the right to at least one in-person hospital visit per day within regular visiting hours.

Tennesseans shouldnt be prevented from being able to care and advocate for their loved ones while in the hospital, Capley said. This bill makes clear that family members can evaluate a patients condition in person. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for standing with Tennessee families.

The bill prohibits hospitals from terminating a power of attorneys visitation rights during a declaration of disaster or emergency by the governor or another individual acting on behalf of the state or a political subdivision. Patients can decline visitation. The bill also does not apply to those in custody.

Additionally, the legislation requires hospitals to make reasonable efforts to ensure each visit is at least one hour long. House Bill 1883 will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

Bill allowing veterans to serve as SROs advances

The House chamber this week advanced legislation aimed at filling school resource officer (SRO) vacancies in Tennessee.

House Bill 1899, sponsored by State Rep. Tim Rudd, R-Murfreesboro, allows honorably discharged veterans of the United States armed forces to serve as SROs.

Many counties are finding it very difficult and hard to staff the school resource officers, Rudd said. Theres simply not enough deputies, especially in rural areas and some urban areas, to find enough officers to be in these schools.

In order to carry a firearm on school grounds, SRO candidates would be required to complete at least 40 hours of basic training approved by the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission, submit fingerprints for a criminal background check by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and be free of any health impairment affecting their ability to carry safely.

The Republican-led General Assembly allocated $232 million in 2023 to enhance school safety, which included $140 million for an armed SRO in every Tennessee public school. According to the Tennessee Department of Education, more than 550 schools statewide were without an SRO as of October.

House Bill 1899 is scheduled to be considered on the House floor on April 16.

House Republicans protect parents vaccine decisions

Legislation further protecting medical freedom for parents in Tennessee was approved in the House chamber this week.

House Bill 2861, sponsored by State Rep. Michele Carringer, R-Knoxville, prohibits health care providers from coercing a person who has legal authority to make healthcare decisions for a child to consent to a vaccination. It also prohibits health care providers from misleading or misrepresenting that a vaccination or newborn screening is required by state law.

The legislation defines coercion as compelling a person to act by force, intimidation or threat. Any health care provider found to violate the act could have their license suspended, revoked or not renewed by their licensing authority.

If approved by the General Assembly, House Bill 2861 would take effect July 1.

Briefly

Protecting taxpayer dollars: The General Assembly this week approved legislation protecting tax dollars from being used to pay for gender reassignment surgeries for inmates in Tennessee. House Bill 2619, sponsored by State Rep. John Ragan, R-Oak Ridge, prohibits the Department of Corrections from using state funds to pay for the procedures or any new hormone replacement therapy for incarcerated individuals statewide. Private funds can still be used to cover the cost of the surgeries and therapy. House Bill 2619 will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

Divisive concepts: Republican legislation strengthening protections for free expression at public universities in Tennessee was approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 2784, sponsored by State Rep. John Ragan, R-Oak Ridge, requires public colleges and universities to investigate alleged violations of the states divisive concepts law and report the findings in a timely manner. Divisive concepts are those that exacerbate and inflame divisions on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin and other criteria in ways that are contrary to the unity of the United States of America and the well-being of Tennessee and its citizens. House Bill 2784 will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

Human trafficking: The General Assembly this week approved legislation ensuring the prosecution of human trafficking crimes in Tennessee. House Bill 2611, sponsored by State Rep. Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, allows a state or local law enforcement agency to submit evidence to another district attorney if one district attorney declines to pursue charges in a multi-jurisdictional human trafficking case. The legislation will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

Mental health: The House chamber this week unanimously passed legislation aimed at getting mental health patients treatment more quickly in Tennessee. House Bill 827, sponsored by State Rep. Mike Sparks, R-Smyrna, requires the Department of Health to create a statewide psychiatric bed tracking system. Finding an available bed at a facility in Tennessee can currently take several days or longer. The companion version of House Bill 827 is still advancing in the Senate.

Elder abuse: A bill to prevent elderly and disabled adults from being exploited through marriage was unanimously approved by the General Assembly this week. House Bill 2420, sponsored by State Rep. Jody Barrett, R-Dickson, would prevent the surviving spouse of an elderly or disabled adult from any entitlement or benefit from their marriage if a court finds the marriage occurred deceptively or under certain exploitative circumstances. The victims family must prove that the surviving spouse entered into the marriage as part of a scheme involving neglect, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, abuse or theft. House Bill 2420 will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

Illegal immigration: The House chamber on Monday passed legislation aimed at combating illegal immigration in Tennessee. House Bill 2304, sponsored by State Rep. Monty Fritts, R-Kingston, requires law enforcement agencies in the state to report every month to the Department of Safety information about each interaction with illegal aliens. The department would also be required to report that information to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the General Assembly. The companion version of House Bill 2304 is still advancing through the Senate.

Election integrity: The House chamber has approved legislation ensuring illegal immigrants do not vote in Tennessee elections. House Bill 835, sponsored by State Rep. Bryan Richey, R-Maryville, requires the coordinator of elections to compare statewide voter registration data with the Department of Safety to make sure all registered voters in the state are United States citizens. Current law allows for the data to be compared but does not require it. Tennessee is ranked No. 1 in the nation for election integrity. State law requires a valid Tennessee or federally-issued government photo identification to vote. The companion version of House Bill 835 is still advancing in the Senate.

Parks: The House chamber on Thursday passed legislation allowing property owners to combine their land with public land to create new public parks for outdoor recreation. House Bill 2859, sponsored by State Rep. John Ragan, R-Oak Ridge, also includes liability protections for land owners of at least 100 acres that has been made available to the public as a park. The bill will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

School nurses: Legislation that would increase transparency of the number of school nurses in Tennessee passed the House chamber on Thursday. House Bill 2158, sponsored by State Rep. Elaine Davis, R-Knoxville, requires a school district that does not have at least one nurse for every 750 students to submit a report to the Department of Education explaining information on the nurse-to-student ratio. State law requires each school district to have at least one permanent, full-time school nurse. More than 450 schools across the state currently do not have one. House Bill 2158 is still advancing through the Senate.

Advertising transparency: The General Assembly this week unanimously passed legislation ensuring medical professionals provide accurate information in advertisements. The Healthcare Provider Advertising Law, sponsored by State Rep. Tom Leatherwood, R-Arlington, states that an advertisement that includes a practitioners name must prominently state the profession or license they hold. Individuals who violate the law are subject to disciplinary sanctions by the board that issued their license. House Bill 2451 will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.

School safety: Legislation establishing guidelines for electronic or digital school mapping advanced out of the Education Administration Committee this week. House Bill 2283, sponsored by State Rep. Kirk Haston, R-Lobelville, provides consistency in digital school mapping to assist first responders in an emergency. The legislation does not require districts to use digital mapping for their schools. House Bill 2283 is scheduled to be heard in the Finance, Ways and Means Committee on April 16.

State food: The General Assembly this week approved House Bill 2864 designating Memphis barbecue as an official state food in Tennessee. Memphis-style barbecue is made mostly from pork ribs and shoulders. The legislation will now head to Gov. Bill Lees desk to be signed into law.
Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative, in partnership with EPB, on Friday announced the launch of a six-week exploration of quantum technology in observance of World Quantum Day which is Sunday. From April 14-May 31, learners of all ages and education levels are invited to explore quantum technology through a series of activities at www.GigCityGoesQuantum.com. The effort is a continuing community-wide collaboration to prepare Chattanooga for education, jobs, and business opportunities in the emerging quantum sector.

Were grateful for the scientists, instructional designers, teachers, and others who have contributed expertise to build a collection of learning resources to help make learning about quantum accessible for everyone, said Charlie Brock, CEO of Chattanooga Quantum Collaborative.

Interactive opportunities are designed to be completed at school or home, including a live-stream challenge with students at the EPB Institute of Technology and Networking at Tyner Academy. Other activities will include events with quantum experts from Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Arizona State University, IonQ, and Qubitekk in presentations available both in person and via live stream at www.GigCityGoesQuantum.com.

Other available resources include hands-on activities created by instructional designers at the Public Education Foundation, the Enterprise Center, and the National Q-12 Partnership.

Hamilton County Schools is dedicated to preparing our students for life after graduation, and our community is moving to a future of careers in quantum, said Dr. Justin Robertson, Hamilton County Schools superintendent. For our students, this means encouraging skills development, including communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, through learning precision making, design, and more in eLabs across our district. I encourage our students, staff, families, and community to continue utilizing the resources made available for World Quantum Day throughout the year as we prepare our students for the future of careers in Hamilton County.

To encourage participation, CQC will give away five $150 Amazon gift cards through a drawing among participants who register at GigCityGoesQuantum.com.

The 2024 World Quantum Day observation follows a successful 2023 initiative that resulted in more than 2,000 activities completed by students and adult learners across the Chattanooga and Hamilton County area. In 2024, partners expect to see 4,000 quantum-related activities completed during the 6-week observation period.

As much potential as quantum holds for future technological advancements, Chattanooga has the distinction of being on the leading edge as a destination for quantum developers, and we want everyone who lives here to benefit, said EPB CEO David Wade. There are significant talent gaps across the industry. Through CQCs and World Quantum Day learning activities, we hope to start the process of positioning the people who live in our own community to be ready for the jobs and investment opportunities that await.

In addition to the CQC and EPB, contributors and partners in commemorating World Quantum Day include UTC, Oak Ridge National Lab, IonQ, Hamilton County Schools, Chattanooga State Community College, Qubitekk, the Public Education Foundation, the Chattanooga Public Library, Chattanooga Technology Council, the Company Lab, the Enterprise Center, Chattanooga 2.0, the city of Chattanooga and Hamilton County.

To access a full list of learning resources, visit www.GigCityGoesQuantum.com.
The attorney for Justin Whaley said the state failed to turn over an Internal Affairs report about a key state witness in the recent vehicular homicide trial of the former EMT. Attorney Lee Davis said Whaley should get a new trial. He will also ask that he be allowed bond at a hearing on Monday before Judge Boyd Patterson.

Whaley was sentenced to serve nine years in state prison for the wrong-way traffic death of James Brumlow on July 2, 2018.

He had faced 8-12 years in prison after a Criminal Court jury found him guilty of vehicular homicide by intoxication and other charges.

Attorney Davis said on March 20, the DA's office disclosed that the "arresting officer and key state witness" Jeremy Wright "was subject to an internal affairs investigation in May of 2023 and found to be untruthful - just prior to the October trial."

The attorney said, "According to the Internal Affairs report, dated July 6, 2023, the District Attorney's Office was aware of this investigation before trial and did not disclose such information to the defense."

He said the information "qualifies as newly discovered evidence that may have affected the outcome in this case, had it been disclosed before trial."

Attorney Davis said Officer Wright was investigated by the Soddy Daisy Police Department after a complainant alleged that in 2018 he had shown her an inappropriate nude photograph of himself to her and a juvenile at a Planet Fitness gym.

He said an investigating officer with the Soddy Daisy Police Department contacted District Attorney Coty Wamp and provided the details of the accusation on May 25, 2023.

The attorney said Officer Wright denied having or showing any such photograph. However, "he later admitted to another superior officer that he did possess the photograph."

Attorney Davis said Officer Wright "allegedly showed a picture of his penis to a minor and her mother in 2018."

The attorney said it was found that Officer Wright "had potentially engaged in off-duty misconduct and had been untruthful."

Attorney Davis said, "The credibility of Officer Wright was a significant issue both at trial and at pre-trial hearings. Had this newly discovered evidence of Officer Wright's untruthfulness been introduced, key blood alcohol evidence may have been suppressed, and the jury may have further questioned the officer's testimony related to impairment."

Judge Boyd Patterson said he agreed with several witnesses who said Whaley, of all people, should have known the dangers of drinking and driving after working many tragic wrecks in the very section where the accident happened on Highway 111.

Whaley was taken into custody after his conviction in late October of last year and has been in jail since.

Attorney Lee Davis said the defense is almost ready to file a motion for a new trial. A March 11 hearing date was set.

He said he believes the appeal has merit and asked that Whaley be allowed bond during the appeal. He said the appeal is expected to go to the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals and could take a lengthy time. He said perhaps Whaley would have served the time prior to a final appeal ruling.

Whaley is eligible for parole consideration after serving 30 percent of the term.

Judge Patterson denied the bond request, but said Whaley would be kept in a local jail until the March 11 hearing.

Several Brumlow family members blasted Whaley and said they did not want to hear an apology from him. However, a sobbing Whaley said, "I am sorry from the bottom of my heart."

He said he had "spent my life helping people" only to make a mistake in judgment that took a life.

Whaley, who operates a shooting range in Van Buren County with 14 employees, said he thinks of the victim every day. He said, "I was the one who messed up. I know that. I have known that from the beginning. I should have been the one who died."

He said he plans to serve his sentence "with honor and dignity," then return to a career "of service to others."

His wife, Heather, said both families have been "devastated" by the tragedy. She said as soon as her husband learned the address of the victim's family he wrote them a letter of apology.

She said her husband "has told me many times that he wishes he was the one who was killed."

Brumlow family members described the victim as a loving family man with a sense of humor. His oldest son said his father was on his way to work a new job when he hit the Whaley vehicle head on at the bottom of Highway 111 just before the merger with U.S. 27.

He said he and other family members cannot get the vision of seeing the victim after the wreck out of their minds.

Of an apology, he said, "We could care less. We don't want to hear it."

Another son said he was away in the military when "I was pulled aside and told by a stranger that my father was dead."

He told the defendant, "You know better than anybody else what drinking and driving can do."

On the night prior to the wreck, Whaley had been with a friend tasting bourbon samples at the top of Retro Hughes Road. His plan was to sleep it off at the friend's house, but he woke up early and left the house shortly after 5 a.m. when it was still dark.

The victim's mother-in-law told Whaley, "I hope the rest of your life is a living hell.'

The baby sister of the victim said she was stocking at the Soddy Daisy Walmart when she encountered Whaley in the store. She said she went to the family bathroom "and I screamed." She said she saw him several times afterward and has suffered bouts of depression since.
Lee University Opera Theatre, directed by James Frost, will present Opera Scenes in the Squires Recital Hall on Sunday, April 21, at 5 p.m.

The performance, which is the final project of Lees Opera Theatre class, will include various scenes from Mozarts Cosi fan tutte, Massenet's Werther, Mechems Tartuffe, Bernsteins Candide, Bizets Carmen, Floyds Susannah, and Menottis Medium.

Each participant of Opera Theatre will sing at least one solo role in one of the scenes.

The participants of each scene are challenged to stage their own scene with help from myself and the other participants, which is a great learning tool, using their own creative impulses, said Mr.

Frost, associate professor of music at Lee.

Opera Theatre was started in the spring of 1998 by the now retired professor Tony Deaton as a workshop and has grown into a production organization performing a Musical Revue in the fall semester, a fully-staged opera from both standard and less traditional repertoire in February, and an Opera Scenes program during the spring semester.

Mr. Frost joined the full-time School of Music faculty in 2007, where he teaches applied voice in addition to directing Lees Opera Theatre. Prior to his arrival at Lee, Mr. Frost lived in Germany for 20 years where he gained professional experience at various opera houses such as Stadttheatre Hildesheim in Germany, Tiroler Landestheater in Austria, and regional theatres in the United States.

The performance is free, non-ticketed, and open to the public. A livestream will be available on

leeu.live.

For more information about Lee University Opera Theatre, contact Mr. Frost at jfrost@leeuniversity.edu.
Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area celebrated the grand opening of its store and Opportunity Center in Dalton with a celebration and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday morning. The 1001 Market St. location includes a Goodwill retail store, a Donation Xpress center and an Opportunity Center. This is the 18th retail store location and the second Opportunity Center location for Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area.

Through their Goodwill Opportunity Centers, Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area provides training, education, and employment for people in their 23-county territory in Tennessee and North Georgia.

The stores hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Opportunity Center hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Goodwill accepts donations during regular store hours.

Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area employs over 350 individuals, many of whom have barriers to employment.

We are thrilled to open our Dalton Goodwill store, Donation Xpress Center, and Goodwill Opportunity Center and are thankful for the community's support, said Gena Weldon, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area. Today was a milestone not only for Goodwill but also for our shared commitment to positively impact the lives of individuals and families in Dalton and beyond.
Big Chicken, the Shaquille ONeal-owned brand, is set to open at Broad and 4th Streets (410 Broad St.). The new location pairs with the liveliness of the neighborhood, and is arriving with an opening celebration on Monday. The first 34 fans (a nod to O'Neal's jersey number) in line will have the chance to score free Big Chicken food and drinks for a year, limited to $10 a week.

The downtown opening is the second in the Greater Chattanooga area this year. Chattanoogas own, Jim Richards, a restaurateur and executive within the QSR industry, along with his partners, Brion Voges, Andrew Gardner and Bruce Bowman, signed a 10-unit franchise agreement with Big Chicken for the Chattanooga, Knoxville and Nashville markets. They recently signed their first lease in the Nashville area.

Our roots run deep in Chattanooga," said Mr. Richards. "My business partners, Brian and Andrew, grew up here, and my family and I have served the community through our restaurants for nearly two decades. Thats why it was so important to us to launch Big Chicken here, where I know people will love our southern-inspired flavors and hospitality. Mr. Richards currently oversees the operations of 13 Five Guys restaurants in Tennessee and Georgia, as well as Fiamma Pizza Co. We opened Big Chicken in Hixson and every day since excitement has been building in the area for this new location.

In less than three years of franchising the brand, Big Chicken has a list of 350 locations in development nationwide and more than 30 locations open in traditional and non-traditional restaurant settings. Big Chicken fuses ONeals home-cooked childhood favorites with todays trending flavors. Offerings at the Chattanooga location will include The Original Big Chicken sandwich (Shaq Sauce and pickles), Uncle Jeromes Nashville Hot (Nashville Hot Chicken, lettuce, mayo and pickles), and The Ultimate (mac & cheese, crispy fried onions and roasted garlic BBQ aioli), along with the crispy crinkle cut fries and ice cream milkshakes.

Jim and I have been imagining this opening for months, said Josh Halpern, CEO of Big Chicken. We toured the location together, right in the heart of the city. I love that this is the group to make Shaquilles vision of Big Flavor and Big Fun a pillar in Downtown Chattanooga and beyond.
A French woman set a world record by rope climbing the Eiffel Tower in record time on Wednesday.

Anouk Garnier climbed the iconic 361-foot structure in 18 minutes. That was two minutes shorter than she expected.

My dream has come true. It's magical," Garnier told the Guardian. "If there was one thing I never doubted, it was that I was going to do it."

The elite athlete trained for a year to attempt the record.

The obstacle course racer used the climb to raise money for cancer prevention after her mother was diagnosed.

A French woman has broken the world rope climbing record after reaching the second floor of the Eiffel Tower on Wednesday.



Anouk Garnier, 34, climbed nearly 361 feet in 18 minutes to set a new high and raise money for cancer prevention and support. pic.twitter.com/pLuXv50qHA  CBS News (@CBSNews) April 11, 2024

She added, "The satisfaction and joy I derive from it today are all the greater. It's a crazy dream come true."

The previous world record was held by South African Thomas Van Tonder. He climbed 295 feet up the Soweto Towers in Johannesburg in 2020, CBS News reported.

Guinness World Records still needs to validate Garnier's time for it to be the official new record.
The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission will return to Johnson City for the second consecutive year and set the states 2024-25 hunting and trapping seasons. The meeting will be held at the Carnegie Hotel with committee meetings starting Thursday at 1 p.m., with full Commission proceedings continuing Friday at 9 a.m.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Wildlife and Forestry Division will present recommendations for the 2024-25 hunting and trapping seasons for Final Commission review and approval. Division Chief Joe Benedict will present an overview of public input since the preview made at the March meeting held at Buffalo Ridge Refuge. Presentations for the proclamations will be made by Chief Benedict, and Assistant Chiefs Wally Akins and Mark McBride.

Region IV Fisheries Program Manager will give an update on Upper East Tennessee Tailwater Fisheries. The area is a popular destination for anglers.

Boating and Law Enforcement Lt. Col. Matt Majors will make a presentation on wildlife officers making a variety of contributions outside of enforcing wildlife, fish, and boating regulations. The 2023 Shikar-Safari Club International Tennessee Officer of the Year Award will be presented. The annual award from the conservation-based organization honors the officer whose efforts during the year show outstanding performance and achievement among TWRA law enforcement personnel.
David Eason had a court hearing this morning, but he couldn't make it on time. He arrived late without legal counsel, but he went looking for a lawyer.

A recent court hearing didnt go the way David Eason had hoped. On April 11, David Eason and Jenelle Evans met for the first time in court since he moved out of her home back in February. The case didnt start positively for Eason, who was reportedly late to the courtroom. The reason he strolled in late is pretty wild, though. Reportedly, Eason was busy trying to find a lawyer the morning of his hearing, and he was looking for one that appeared on Teen Mom 2.

David Eason appeared in court without a lawyer

David Eason and Jenelle Evans finally came face-to-face in court. The former flames were in a North Carolina court on April 11 to discuss the order of protection that Evans requested for herself and her three children, including the daughter she shares with Eason. Things seemingly didnt end well, as the US Sun caught Eason leaving the courthouse while hurling expletives at a photographer. According to another source, the hearing didnt start well, either.

Jenelle Evans and David Eason | Brian Ach/Getty Images for Nolcha

According to the Ashley Reality Roundup Group, David Eason strolled into court late and without representation. The publication claims the troubled former reality TV star was late because he was busy seeking legal counsel. Reportedly, Eason was chasing down lawyers in the hallway. David didnt just seek out any lawyer who happened to be in the courthouse at the time, though. The publication claims Eason chased down Dustin Sullivan, a lawyer well-known to Teen Mom 2 fans.

Sullivan, who practices out of Bolivia, North Carolina, has defended Jenelle Evans several times over the years. He has appeared on Teen Mom 2 as well. In one very memorable Teen Mom 2 scene, Jenelle famously whined to Sullivan that she could not report to jail on a specific date because she had tickets to see Kesha. For his part, Sullivan maintained professionalism during Evans rant but couldnt quell a slight giggle after she made it clear that she got feathers in her hair specifically for the event.

Jenelle Evans | Brunswick County Sheriffs Department via WireImage

Sullivan has not worked with Evans in some time. It doesnt look like he is interested in getting involved with her family again, either. At the very least, he has no interest in her divorce. According to The Ashley, Sulivan declined to represent Eason, even for a single hearing.

Can David Eason afford to pay a lawyer?

While Eason sulked out of court, he got what he wanted. The father of three was granted a continuance until the end of April. While the judge argued that a couple of weeks should be ample time to find legal representation, Eason isnt so sure. Teen Mom 2 fans think they know why.

Jenelle Evans and David Eason | MTV/YouTube

Related Jenelle Evans Calls out the Extended Eason Family on Social Media

David might claim he needs more time to find a lawyer, but Teen Mom 2 fans arent convinced he will ever be able to hire someone within his current budget. Eason has not worked a traditional job in years, and Evans has accused the North Carolina native of sponging off her money since they met. Now that the duo has split, presumably, David has lost access to her cash. How hell be paying for a lawyer from now on is anyones guess.

Teen Mom fans are also curious to see how he proceeds with his ongoing criminal case. Davids child abuse and strangulation case, which stems from a 2023 incident involving Jace Evans, is still pending. It is unclear if he has retained a lawyer for that case.
Theresa Nist and Gerry Turner announced their divorce just three months after saying "I do." Disagreements over where to live led to the split.

Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist are getting divorced after just three months as a married couple. The first-ever The Golden Bachelor couple wed in a televised ceremony in January 2024 but never actually moved in together and started their life. Fans have been questioning the validity of their relationship for weeks, and now they are ready to speak.

Why are Theresa Nist and Gerry Turner getting divorced?

Theresa Nist and Gerry Turner opted to share the news of their divorce on Good Morning America. The lengthy sit-down interview covered everything from their plans moving forward to why theyve decided to call it quits to begin with. So, why is their marriage ending?

Nist and Turner insist that ending their marriage was not an easy decision to make. During their Good Morning America appearance, the couple insisted that they did not fall out of love with each other and still very much care for each other. Instead, the duo insisted that their marriage had to end for logistical reasons.

In short, neither Theresa Nist nor Gerry Turner were all-in enough to pick up their lives and move across the country to be with the other. The duo revealed they were still very much committed to their families and couldnt imagine leaving their home states. Nist raised her family in New Jersey and still works in the state. Turner retired to his dream home on a lake in Indiana.

Theresa Nist and Gerry Turner | John Fleenor/Disney via Getty Images

During the chat, Theresa noted that they had originally considered moving to South Carolina. She said they even toured homes in New Jersey as a potential option, but they never took the plunge. Nist never said she considered moving to Indiana.

Location is something fans thought would factor into who won the series to begin with

While location and how to uproot their lives was not something Turner and Nist seemed to think much about before taking the plunge, it is something fans of the series discussed long before Turner gave out the final rose. During early discussions about the series, fans believed the contestants hometowns would heavily factor into which golden bachelorette Turner ultimately chose.

The Golden Bachelor contestants | ABC/Ricky Middlesworth

It did seem to factor into at least one choice. Viewers largely believed Faith Martin would be one of the two final contestants. Turner opted not to give her a rose following the franchises infamous Hometowns episode. It was obvious that Martins reluctance to consider leaving her Washington state home gave Turner pause. It is likely what led to her dismissal.

So, why didnt the distance factor into Turners decision with Nist? Simply put, it looks like Nist did seem open to moving at first, and so did Turner. When it all came down to it, what they said they were willing to do and what they ultimately were willing to do were two different things.
Being an inventor can be a rewarding experience, especially when you get to see your inventions become part of peoples daily lives.

Plus, youll be immortalized in history books, and everyone will know your name even long after youre gone.

However, for all the good you might do as an inventor, there are some downsides to the career as well.

Many inventors actually regret their creations and wish they never thought of them in the first place after seeing them used for something other than their intended purpose.

For instance, the scientists behind the atomic bomb, the creator of the AK-47, and the dog breeder who created the first labradoodle expressed their regret for introducing their inventions to humankind.

Wally Conron, an Australian breeder, created the labrador-poodle mix in 1989 after a couple from Hawaii wrote to him about their need for a guide dog.

However, the husband was allergic to dogs with long hair, which is a common feature of most service dogs. Conron decided to crossbreed a poodle with a Labrador as a solution. The dog would have the temperament of a Labrador but the short, curly coat of a poodle.

He was successful in creating the labradoodle, but the experiment resulted in some consequences. Labradoodles are prone to multiple health problems, and not every breeder aims to breed pups with their well-being in mind.

Many of them were inspired by Conrons practice to produce similar crossbreeds since they are very desirable due to their cuteness. Conron believes breeders have gone too far and calls the labradoodle his lifes regret.

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One devious wedding guest was looking for far more than merely catching a bouquet.

Natalie Green, 41, has been ordered to repay thousands of pounds that she allegedly misappropriated while claiming she was arranging travel and accommodations for other guests traveling to Thailand for a friend's wedding.

The scam came to light ahead of the 2022 wedding of Elaine and Marc Walker of Peterhead in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, forcing the bride's mother to compensate by paying roughly 11,000 for the 19 guests who had their travel money stolen from Green.

Green was given a two-year supervision order by Peterhead Sheriff Court.

Despite paying back 1650, she was also ordered to pay back the remaining 5,697 due in compensation, according to People Magazine.

Elaine described the moment she learned about the scam when her bridesmaid called her in tears.

"I couldn't make out what she was saying because she was hysterically crying," she told the BBC.

"My other friend Chevonne then said, 'Natalie has taken all the money, and we have not been able to get anything booked.'

"I was just absolutely gobsmacked."

Chevonne Millar, who had been friends with Green for nearly a decade, told the outlet,

"The plans began in 2021, giving us all plenty of time to save money for flights and accommodations."

"There were three of us who were single and traveling alone, so Natalie said, 'I am a student; you guys all work full time; I will help organize flights and accommodation; then you are only paying one person', she added.

"So we just started paying in installments, bank transfers. The first was about 800 for the flights."

Green confessed her fraudulent activities after accepting payments amounting to 7,547 between January 2021 and August 2022.

On her behalf, Green's lawyer said she was "remorseful and embarrassed" about her actions, revealing she was in debt and suffering from health challenges at the time.
On October 8, 1871, a fire started in a barn in Chicago. The blaze traveled through about three square miles of the city, burning everything in its path.

When it was finally contained two days later, the city was left in critical condition. The fire had killed 300 people, wiped out the homes of 100,000 residents, and demolished $200 million in property. The catastrophe became known as The Great Chicago Fire.

The fire starter was believed to be an ill-tempered cow that belonged to Patrick and Catherine OLeary.

Newspapers quickly placed blame on the cow, reporting that it had kicked over a kerosene lantern while Mrs. OLeary was milking it.

After the fire was extinguished, several other theories surfaced, causing more fingers to be pointed at the OLearys.

For instance, some newspapers claimed that Mrs. OLeary had been selling the cows milk illegally, and when city officials discovered her crime, they forced her to stop. As a result, she set the fire as revenge.

The month after the fire, the OLearys were interviewed by the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners.

Mrs. OLeary stated that she never milked the cows in the evening and had been asleep when the fire started.

She had gone to bed early because her foot was sore. A neighbor, Daniel Sullivan, backed up her claim. He was the first person to notice the blaze.

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Red lipstick is an important staple in anyones makeup bag. Its also one of the few beauty products that can transcend time periods.

As a result, it has been around for thousands of years. According to a new archaeological find, it was even used in ancient times!

In southeastern Iran, red lipstick dating back to 3,600 years ago was recently recovered from a gravesite that had been looted. The Bronze Age makeup is known to be the oldest lipstick ever discovered.

The red lipstick was found in the Jiroft region of southeastern Iran. It was first uncovered in 2001, along with a number of other artifacts.

The Halil River had overflowed and flooded several graveyards from the 3rd millennium B.C.E. Locals scavenged the site for treasures, but the lipstick remained unclaimed and managed to make its way to a museum in the area,

The lipstick was contained in a vial that resembles the lipstick tubes of today. It was made of minerals like galena, anglesite, and hematite, which was darkened by manganite and braunite to create a waxy substance of a reddish hue.

It was similar to the formula for modern lipsticks and seemed to be used in much the same way.

The vials slender shape and limited thickness suggest that it could have been conveniently held in one hand together with the handle of a copper/bronze mirror, leaving the other hand free to use a brush or another kind of applicator, wrote the authors of the study, which was published in the journal Scientific Reports.

It is believed that the lipstick came from a Bronze Age civilization that occupied the nearby region, such as the ancient Marhasi.

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The new dystopian thriller reminds viewers its not just what we witness that matters, but how .

Murray Close / Courtesy of A24

Theres nothing more frightening than the sound of a camera shutter in the new film Civil War.

Distributed by A24, the production company behind releases like Everything Everywhere All at Once and Past Lives, the movie depicts the remnants of a United States government battling the Western Forces, an alliance between Texas and California. If youre looking for reasonsWhy these factions? Why now?you wont find any answers. The film is frustratingly opaque on logistics, though were able to hypothesize based on a few offhand comments. (The unnamed president, played by Nick Offerman, is entering his third term and isnt gun-shy about using air strikes against American citizens.) Even so, a California that cooperates with Texas seems far-fetched.

For writer/director Alex Garland, our incredulity is the point. I find it interesting that people would say, These two states could never be together under any circumstances. Under any circumstances? Any? Are you sure? he told The Atlantic. By asking us to accept his premise, Garland forces viewers to consider the ideological divisions we take for granted. Turns out, the why doesnt matter all that much. Dystopia, no matter how it comes about, is still dystopia.

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What is clear, though, is that the war provides an opportunity for journalists, capitalized on by photojournalist Lee (Kirsten Dunst), her Reuters colleague Joel (Wagner Moura), and her mentor, New York Times reporter Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson). Their coverage of atrocities shapes our experience of this imagined future. Many of those chilling camera shutter sounds come from Lee, as she documents truly terrible scenes of domestic conflict with ruthless efficiency and pristine technique. Its jarring to see pictures of military soldiers being executed or a civilian being set on fire with perfect ISO and aperture.

Ever in pursuit of a scoop, the three decide to embark on a road trip from New York to DC, where Lee hopes to photograph the president and Joel hopes to interview him. We get there before anyone else does, Lee says. Joel agrees: Interviewing him is the only story left. At the last minute, theyre joined by Jessie (Cailee Spaeny), a young photojournalist who idolizes Lee. Together they embark on a tour of the crumbling nation.

With every click, the photographers get more disconnected from the war theyre documenting. Cinematographer Rob Hardy and editor Jake Roberts use recurring shots of each photos aftermath to terrifying effect. When the camera falls from Lees or Jessies face, its like a mask coming off.

Whether shes captured a candid of an abandoned mall or a soldier whos bled out, Lees dispassionate poise is chilling. Shes seen one too many atrocities, and whether for self-preservation or by overexposure, shes desensitized to the horrors around her.

Young Jessie, however, is different. Whenever shes done taking a photo, at least at first, audiences see the toll the work takes on her. Its a tragedy when her empathy gives way to detachment. Each time her camera clicks, her face is less frightened, more stoic.

Civil War is an ode to the harrowing work of war journalists. But the film also pushes back against the notion that the highest virtue a journalist can cultivate is the ability to remain unfazed. While objectivity is imperative, it should be no badge of honor when were able to cover the worst of the world and not be moved.

In one painful sequence, after the crew witnesses a wanton act of violence, Lee tells a visibly shaken Jessie, We record so other people ask. Lees investment in a story ends after the click; she leaves it up to her audience to explore bigger questions about pain and purpose. You want to be a journalist? Thats the job, she scolds. One cant deny the journalists commitment to capturing the truth of what they see. But its nonetheless disturbing when they do so without emotion.

The psalms of David take the opposite approach to the one modeled in Civil Warall lament, rejoicing, and rage as they interpret the world around them.

In David in Distress: His Portrait Through the Historical Psalms, scholar Vivian L. Johnson identifies certain songs that directly correlate with whats covered in texts like 1 and 2 Samuel. One of these is Psalm 51, written in the aftermath of Davids rape of Bethsheba and his murder of her husband, Uriah, as recorded in 2 Samuel 11.

Whereas the history in Samuel provides the objective account of whats happened, the psalm offers an opportunity to flesh out Davids inner, emotional experience. As Johnson writes, Seldom do the Samuel narratives reveal the private contemplation of David or report his gestures of contrition; in fact, the books of Samuel in general show little reservation in their disclosure of his most egregious deeds. Psalm 51, she argues, where David details his remorse more fully than in 2 Samuels one-line confession I have sinned against the Lord, provid[es] for the reader an elaborate and pious version of what David may have said subsequent to recognizing the gravity of his actions when he murdered the husband of his mistress.

The role of the psalmist is different from the role of the journalist. But what we see in Civil War reminds us, as does Scripture, of how vulnerable we can be in the face of the worlds hardships. For every record of an atrocity is a journalist who wrestles with bearing witness.

Take, for instance, a Rolling Stone gallery of images from photojournalists in Gaza. The photos are difficult to sift through and only more poignant now that the death toll there has exceeded 33,000 people. The presentation of these photos isnt careless or salacious; instead, each is accompanied by a contextualizing caption. Photojournalist Ahmed Zakot describes Gaza on October 9, 2023: I took this picture from the 19th floor of a skyscraper in Gaza. In my 25-year career as a photographer, I never felt such fear and distress. I felt that I was filming a cinematic movie scene, I had to remind myself that it is all too real.

I can be like Lee. When I see archival photos from history or even images of todays faraway atrocities, Im moved to protect myself by keeping it all at arms length. Its no wonderin our online, overexposed world, ghastly images and testimonies are just a timeline refresh away.

But while dissociation might be understandable, its not desirable. Thats true not only of pain but also of joy. Theres Jobs address to God: anger fully expressed rather than circumstances merely accepted. But theres also the first chapter of Luke, which makes room for Marys song.

Whereas other gospels are quick to narrate the events of Jesus birth, Luke pauses for a look at Marys heart. Her spirit rejoices in God my Savior; she can trust in the promises foretold by the angel Gabriel since God has shown his faithfulness just as he promised our ancestors. Even as it records the facts, Scripture makes room for lament, celebration, and praise, not stoicism.

Civil War offers a similar reminder. Its not just what we witness that matters but how. Even as we remind ourselves that it is all too real, we remember a loving God whos present in that reality. May we care for our souls as we look closely at suffering. May we also allow our hearts to break.

Zachary Lee serves as the Managing Editor at The Center for Public Justice. He writes about media, faith, technology, and the environment.
Illustration by Mallory Rentsch Tlapek / Source Images: Getty

I sat by myself at one end of the boardroom, fidgeting with a few notes on the table in front of me. At the other end were about ten older men in suits and ties peering over their tables, arms crossed. It wouldnt have been difficult for someone just walking in to determine which end of the room held the power.

After my brief opening statement, the rest of our time was set aside for discussion. The two-hour meeting felt more like an inquisition. The first questioner hardly let the silence settle after I spoke: Jim, I went to school with your father. We even went on a mission trip to Mexico together. Ive known you since you were a kid. What happened to you?

Ive replayed this scene in my head a hundred times, varying what I say in an attempt to get my accusers to stand up, shake my hand, and say, Oh, now we see. That makes sense. Sorry for the trouble. But every time it ends the same way: I have to give up my position as a tenured professor of philosophy and leave the college Ive served for 17 years.

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My crime? Believing what 99 percent of those who have a PhD in biology or medicine believe: that human beings evolved over time and share common ancestors with every other life form on the planet. But this was a small Christian college, one of the places where evolutionary theory is deemed incompatible with Christian beliefs. And not just incompatibleevolution is considered dangerous. These men believed that hearing anything positive about evolution would make students doubt the Bible. If you cant believe the creation account in the very first chapter of the Bible, their thinking goes, then why believe any of it?

I do not believe faith is so fragile. Id already shared with the panel examples of the ways faith and science can not only coexist but actually strengthen each other. But the rhetoric of prominent young-earth creationist groups so unsettled the college leadership that, after questioning me, they changed the official statement of beliefs that faculty have to sign each year.

To be fair, I wasnt technically fired. I could have stayed if I agreed to the new rules. There are still a few other faculty members there who would admit behind closed doors that they accept evolution. But they cant teach it as true, like they do photosynthesis or germ theory. They cant publish scholarly work that defends it. And they certainly cant have leadership positions in organizations that advocate for evolutioneven if that advocacy comes from a Christian viewpoint.

That gatekeeping not only worries but saddens me, because my engagement with science has led me to a deeper, more authentic faith. It troubles me too, because time and again Ive seen that this kind of hostility toward science leads Christiansespecially students asking questions about the faith they inheritedaway from Christianity by drawing a line that need not exist.

I do understand why some Christians draw that line, though. I think their logic works something like this: We want to convince people that the Bible can be trusted. When people today pick up a Bible and read a story from Genesis, they might be skeptical that it really could have happened just like the text says. That kind of doubt will eat away at the foundations of scriptural truth and make people doubt other aspects of what the Bible claims. To really counter these doubts, we must show that these stories could have happened just as described. That will convince people that the Bible is telling the truth.

But in practice, I find, it often works the other way around. When we shut down sincere questions about the Bible, we dont convince people its telling the truth. We make them skeptical of our entire faith.

My church lied to me. Thats how author Philip Yancey answered on my podcast when I asked whether he was frustrated with how his church conditioned him to think about science. Yancey has written a lot of books critiquing the easy answers given by the Christian community to difficult questions.

He grew up in a fundamentalist church in Atlanta that denied there were ever dinosaurs, and they preached that Black people were cursed and could never be leaders. Yet when Yancey won a summer fellowship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), he discovered his mentor would be a Black man with a PhD in chemistry. Thats when he realized his church had lied about race. Lied is a pretty strong charge, but they were obviously wrong. He went on:

And if theyre wrong about race, maybe theyre wrong about evolution, maybe theyre wrong about the Bible, maybe theyre wrong about Jesus. And it was a huge crisis of faith. And the only way I dealt with it was just to back off from faith for a period of time. It took meand is taking mea long period of time to sort out. Thats what I do as a writer, to sort out what is worth keeping and what needs to be shed, because the church doesnt always get it right. And if you get it wrong on science, if you get it wrong on one of these topics, you are opening the door to people just dispensing with everything that the church taught.

Thats a pretty good description of the way religious organizations push people away when they give scarcely credible answers to sincere questions. There is only a slight difference between answering a question with a far-fetched answer that must certainly be accepted as unquestionably true and not answering the question at all.

Toward the end of my time as a professor, a student came into my office in tears. She had just come from a Bible class where she asked a question about the way our faith tradition typically interpreted some passage. I dont even remember now which passage, but I do remember the answer she said the professor gave: You shouldnt be asking questions like that.

I wish what that student experienced from a Bible professor and what Yancey experienced from his church were isolated experiences. But Im afraid they are not, and this habit of putting a swift and definitive end to questions is contributing to the well-documented dechurching of the American people.

One of the big reasons young people walk away from their faith is that their questions are not taken seriously. They have questions specifically about science, but church leaders dont seem to realize thisor else they give answers that seem bizarre and outlandish compared to mainstream and well-confirmed scientific views.

The result is that people grow up in religious communities with a particular view of science that is so tightly wedded to a particular view of the Bible that it is essentially a package deal. Then, when they get out into the real world (or even just watch a nature documentary) and realize that their view of science is clearly wrong, they throw out the whole package. They dispense with everything that the church taught, in the words of Yancey.

Hearing from lots of former students who went down that path made me want to start addressing these topics with my current students, giving them a place to ask questions and showing that science doesnt have to lead them away from faith. I wanted my students to see that they didnt have to give up their faith because of science. Proclaiming that message is what led to my departure from the college, but Im still working to show there is a better way.

Jim Stump is vice president for programs at BioLogos, host of the podcast Language of God, and author of The Sacred Chain: How Understanding Evolution Leads to Deeper Faith.

From the newly released book THE SACRED CHAIN: How Understanding Evolution Leads to Deeper Faith by James Stump. Copyright  2024 by James Stump. Published by HarperOne, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
Hindutva ideology is crossing the border from India and making ministry more challenging for churches in the former Hindu kingdom.

Boy_Anupong / Getty

More than 15 years after Nepal officially became a secular democracy, the former Hindu monarchy may have a religious extremism problem, incited and aggravated by its closest neighbor.

In an alarming development, Indian Hindutva ideology and politics have begun to spread throughout the country, as local experts and journalists report. This proliferation has resulted in a recent spate of attacks and restrictions on Christians reported within the country of 30 million.

According to local sources, at least five separate incidents targeting Christians have been reported in March and April of this year.

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The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) in Nepal is rapidly growing. Aiming to protect Hinduism, they degrade Christianity and badmouth us through social media and other sources, said Kiran Thapa, who was arrested last month for praying for people in Kathmandu.

In March, Thapa and several foreigners, all Christians, were visiting the Pashupatinath Temple, a religious World Heritage Site deeply venerated by local Hindus. When they entered the temple, they came across an elderly couple who were suffering with pain in their knees and back. The group offered to pray for them with the couples consent, and they subsequently reported that they were healed. More people then requested prayers from the group and reported being healed.

I had to request them to come one by one, said Thapa.

After two monks asked for prayer and then reported that they too had been healed of their physical afflictions, a policeman ordered the Christians to leave the Hindu temple for praying in Jesus' name. As they were leaving, a man with an immobile hand followed the group out. When the Christians prayed for him in the street, having informed him that they could not pray for him in the temple, he also said he had been healed. Despite the miracle occurring outside the temple grounds, the incident angered the same policeman, who then got a senior police official to deal with the matter. According to Thapa, the officer began screaming at Thapa and arrested him.

They threatened to kill me and bury me as an anonymous corpse near the ghat (riverbed). If the law had not bound my hands, I would have killed you and buried you here, the officer told me, said Thapa.

Thapa spent the next 24 hours in extremely poor jail conditions without a proper place to sit or sleep. The senior inmates made him sit near the toilet while lavatory waste gushed out into the cell, said Thapa.

Authorities released him after the temple management, which had filed a complaint against Thapa that falsely stated he was distributing Bibles, withdrew their complaint at the request of Thapas wife.

Several weeks earlier, evangelist Sajan Shrestha mentioned, a video was uploaded on Facebook showing members from HSS, an extremist organization whose name literally translates to Hindu emperor army, aggressively bullying Christians. The mob taunted the crowd, calling on them to tear the Bibles. All resisted but one, who tore the Bible and then was forced to trample the torn book under his feet. The extremists then heaped all the Bibles and set them on fire. They surrounded the fire and shouted slogans like Jai Shri Ram (Hail, Lord Rama).

We are so sorry for our brothers who went through all this, said Shrestha, who himself was harassed, detained, and interrogated by a pro-Hindu journalist and two plainclothes policemen on February 12. Earlier that month, the journalist had found Shresthas name after threatening two young Christian women who were distributing tracts in Lalitpur, the countrys fourth most-populous city. After local Christians protested, authorities released him from police custody.

Historically, Hindus in Nepal have been far less aggressive toward non-Hindus than their counterparts in India, Shrestha said. However, he has observed a concerning evolution of attitudes in Terai, a region in southern Nepal close to where the country borders India.

According to Shrestha, in the weeks leading up to Indias national elections, which begin at the end of April, Indian Hindu extremist ideologies seem to be gaining ground. He believes that Indian prime minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is financially supporting these Nepali Hindu groups to deliberately fuel religious tensions, possibly for political leverage.

In March, seven Australians and four Nepalese were visiting a village in Terai when a Hindu group from another village confronted them aggressively, stating they couldn't be there and accusing them of trying to convert the locals to Christianity. The villagers subsequently called the police, who arrested the entire team.

Further, within hours of their arrest, a mob of around 40 people surrounded the police station, demanding the Christians be charged for preaching in the Hindu-majority area.

After being detained in Kathmandu for three days, the Australians were asked to leave Nepal. However, the government kept the four Nepalese, Adesh Gurung, Bijendra Mukhiya, Phurba Lama, and Siwan Rai, in jail for more than three weeks.

The four men were charged under Nepal's Penal Code adopted in 2015, which prohibits proselytization. More stringent anti-conversion laws were passed in 2017, under which a person can be sentenced to a jail term of up to five years and a fine of up to 50,000 Nepali rupees ($375 USD) as punishment.

Even though the law states that the fine could be up to 50,000 Nepali rupees, the four Christians were released on a bail bond of 150,000 Nepali rupees each, said one of the Australians to CT.

However, leading up to their trial, the four will have to return every three months to present themselves in the court while they are out on bail. Once the trial begins, they will have to be present for every court date (which could be once or twice a month) until the verdict.

The vehemence of the mobs response surprised the Australian missionary, who told CT he had previously visited the Christian homes in the village without issue and intimated that Indian Hindu radicals have been crossing the border and inciting violence.

This whole region has become more anti-Christian and zealous in trying to get rid of Christians in the last six months. The Hindu extremists are organizing people to report Christians, he said. In our case, the host did not report us, but someone reported our presence in the village, and it was surprising to see so many people gathered swiftly, which demonstrates their planning. Their minds are being polarized. The attitude of surrounding us, gathering quickly, and calling the police is coming over from the Indian borderhatred and extreme thinking.

The HSSthe body promoting Hindutva in Nepalwas founded in the country around 1992 by several Nepali students who had been exposed to the ideology of the Indian Hindu nationalist organization Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) while studying in India.

Though the HSS has distanced itself from the RSS, the RSS nevertheless considers the HSS its international wing. With 750 branches in 45 countries, the HSS has chapters in English-speaking nations like the UK, the United States, and Canada, as well as European countries like Germany, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and others.

The HSS is expanding quickly and promotes Hindu nationalism. Sadly, they often depict Christians in a negative light, portraying themselves as the better option. This has resulted in many incidents where Christians are targeted unfairly, said Thapa.

The HSS is not the only group working to build a Hindu nationalist narrative in Nepal. The Kathmandu Post reported that at least 100 Hindu organizations are currently active in Nepal. The article and others also mention foreign influences, mainly from India, backing the Hindutva movement, adding complexity to Nepal's political landscape.

There is a massive rise in the pro-Hindu movement across Nepal in the last two to three years, said an official who spoke to The Kathmandu Post on condition of anonymity alleging that some organizations promoting the Hindu movement in Nepal are volunteer groups while others have received funds from different sources inside and outside the country.

While indigenous ethnic Nepalis are not traditionally Hindu, many Hindus have been successful in convincing them that their faith alone protects tribal identity. In contrast, Christians are cast as outsiders trying to erase and undermine local culture.

India and Nepal share strong cultural, social, and economic ties. They signed agreements in 1950 and 1960 to strengthen economic cooperation and promote trade. The open border allows free movement of people and goods, making Nepal one of India's top export destinations. India provides significant foreign investment and development aid to Nepal in areas like education, infrastructure, energy, and rural development. The two countries recently signed a deal allowing the Indian government to directly fund projects in Nepal worth up to 200 million Nepali rupees ($15 million USD), an increase from the previous 50-million-rupee limit per project.

Shrestha said that the Nepali Christian leadership is planning to bring this sudden rise in incidents against the Christian community before the authorities.

We are planning to visit the prime minister [Pushpa Kamal Dahal] and human rights organizations and alert them about these incidents, said Shrestha.

Despite the rise of radical Hinduism, Nepal's census shows a significant 68 percent increase in the Christian population in the past decade. The numbers further reveal a small decline in Hinduism and Buddhism followers, compared to the modest growth of the Muslim, Christian, and Kirat communities (indigenous ethnic groups of the Himalayas) compared to the 2011 census.

While Hinduism is still over 80 percent, its share has decreased from 81.3 to 81.19 percent, and Buddhism from 9 to 8.2 percent. Meanwhile, Islam rose from 4.4 to 5.9 percent, Christianity surged from 0.1 to 1.76 percent, and the Kirat community increased from 2.81 to 3.17 percent. (Nepal also has minor religions like Bahai, Bon, Jain, Prakriti, and Sikh.)
At 89 years old, the Stonebriar Community Church founder says he still believes  one never retires from the work of Gods kingdom. 

Weeks away from turning 90, Chuck Swindoll has preached his final sermon at Stonebriar Community Church. Swindoll announced Sunday that the time has come for him to retire from the church he led as senior pastor for 26 years.

The founding pastor of the Frisco, Texas, congregation had transitioned from day-to-day leadership of the church back in May but continued to preach on Sundays. Jonathan Murphy, a preacher and seminary professor from Northern Ireland, succeeded Swindoll as senior pastor.

Swindoll says he and his wife will continue to worship at Stonebriar, and he plans to continue to serve through his radio ministry Insight for Living.

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Ive always believed that age is merely a number; what truly matters is our commitment to fulfilling the divine purpose laid out before us, he said in a statement to Stonebriar. I want to embrace every day, every challenge, and every opportunity to impact lives, because one never retires from the work of Gods kingdom.

Chuck Swindoll has said that pastors should never retire, and the 89-year-old wont be stepping away from the pulpit even as his church welcomes his successor.

Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, announced this week that Swindoll will transition to founding pastor, continuing to preach on Sundays, as Jonathan Murphy becomes its senior pastor on May 1.

This is a very unique way of expanding, of moving into another chapter, as we often call it here, said Swindoll in a video clip alongside Murphy, a Belfast-born preacher who currently serves as chair of pastoral ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary.

With over 60 years in ministry, Swindoll is the oldest megachurch pastor in the country and one of the most influential. He has been vocal about his plans to remain active in ministry until his death.

One of my great goals in life is to live long enough to where I am in the pulpit, preaching my heart out, and I die on the spot, my chin hits the pulpitboom!and Im down and out, he said at age 75. What a way to die.

In his new role, Swindoll remains Stonebriars regular preacher, while Murphy leads day-to-day ministries and fills in to preach when needed, according to the churchs announcement.

We have the founding pastor being able to continue to preach as long as the Lord would have, and I can have a season as a senior pastor taking responsibility for the staff and caring for them and the ministry direction of the church at large, said Murphy, who has been a guest preacher at Stonebriar and serves on the board for Swindolls long-running radio ministry Insight for Living.

The two have been preparing for the transition for several years, with Swindoll befriending and mentoring Murphy. The churchs elder board began considering him as a senior pastor candidate in 2022 and decided last month to bring him into the new role.

Swindoll will remain an elder, and Murphy will also join the elder board. At the appropriate time in the future, the church said, Murphy will also become the churchs primary preacher.

Megachurch researcher Warren Bird and William Vanderbloemen, the authors of Next: Pastoral Succession That Works, have written that an intentional overlap plan seems to be the strongest model for transition.

Today, many long-term pastors experience a period of overlap with their successor as a way to help both the congregation and themselves adjust to the transition. It also allows a safety net if the transition hit unexpected challenges, Bird, the senior vice president of research at the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, told CT. A known leader is often the successor, in this case someone whos been a guest preacher from a nearby seminary much esteemed by the congregation.

According to Bird, preaching is often the last duty for an aging pastor to relinquish.

He said that Swindolls setup at Stonebriar is similar to other long-serving megachurch pastors in their 80s, such as at First Baptist Atlanta, where Anthony George was announced at Charles Stanleys successor years before Stanley stepped down at age 87. (Stanley also said he didnt believe in retirement and continued his work at In Touch Ministries.)

The need for pastors to make plans for their successors has only grown more urgent in the US as clergy age; 1 in 4 senior pastors plan to retire by 2030.

Last year, Swindoll suffered a fall, experienced low blood pressure, and underwent an angiogram. He was away from the pulpit in January while recovering from an aortic valve procedure. He turns 90 this fall.

While president of Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS), Swindoll helped found Stonebriar Community Church in 1998. A Texas native, Swindoll had graduated from DTS and began his pastoral career in the Lone Star State in the 1960s.

Stonebriar drew in 1,500 weekly attendees within its first six months; CT dubbed it an instant megachurch. At its 25th anniversary in 2023, the nondenominational evangelical church outside Dallas reported 3,700 members, 300,000 square feet of building space, and an annual budget of $17 million.

Swindoll is known for his preaching. He has twice appeared on Baylor Universitys rankings of most effective preachers, and a 2010 Lifeway Research survey of Protestant preachers found he was the countrys most influential preacher not named Billy Graham.

Murphy commended Swindoll and his congregation for their love for the word. We talk about expository preaching, but I love that theyre expository listeners, he said. They come ready to hear from God, not to be entertained.

Despite Swindolls remarks that pastors shouldnt retire, he has also said, Theres nothing wrong with retirement as long as you dont stop living for God. You never retire from the Great Commission.
Home News 16-year-old with long police record arrested for attacking woman on steps of NYC church

Detectives with the New York City Police Department have arrested and charged a 16-year-old boy in connection with a brutal assault and robbery of a 68-year-old woman on the steps of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Jamaica, New York, on Sunday which left her critically injured.

While the suspects name has not been released because of his age, the NYPD announced that he was arrested and charged with assault, robbery, grand larceny and possession of stolen property, NBC New York reported.

The victim who has been identified as Irene Tahliambouris, was on her way to worship at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church when she was attacked around 8:20 a.m. just steps from the churchs door. Surveillance video shows Tahliambouris getting punched by her attacker then falling down a flight of stairs.

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Tahliambouris purse which had $300, a cell phone as well as her car keys was allegedly taken by the suspect who fled in her car.

Reacting to the arrest Thursday, Daniel Coffaro Hill, communications director of the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol and aunt of the victim applauded the arrest of the suspect he called a lowlife and a thug. He also worried about how the state and citys legal system would hold him accountable.

This lowlife is off our streets for now, and we are hoping the system will actually do its job this time. Were tired of seeing criminals walk free because of our soft on crime laws, Hill said in a statement on X. This thug is another example of how petty criminals feel bold enough to escalate their crimes, knowing theyll likely get off with a slap on the wrist. Despite this, there seems to be a lack of urgency from both Albany and NYC to implement the necessary legal reforms to ensure these individuals are held accountable.

Kaz Daughtry, the NYPDs deputy commissioner of operations called the attack on Tahliambouris cowardly while praising the arrest and calling for prayers for the victim.

72 hours after this cowardly attack in front of a church, this violent criminal is where he belongs, in handcuffs. But this isnt a time for kudos, this is still a time for prayers. Maam the entire NYPD and this city are praying for your speedy recovery, thats what matters most, he wrote on X.

John Chell, the NYPDs chief of patrol, agreed with Daughtry in a statement of his own on X while noting that the 16-year-old suspect has previously been arrested multiple times for robbery yet was allowed to roam free on the streets.

Agreed, no kudos on this, just prayers, answers, and needed reforms. All of NYC prays for Irenes recovery and her familys peace, Chell noted.

We are all citizens of this great city who want our friends, neighbors, and family to be safe. Absolutely shocking that this heinous crime was committed by a 16 year old! A teenager who has had multiple felony arrests, robberies of women and yet he is walking around the streets, Chell added.

Obviously, he needs help! Irene represents all of our moms, grandmothers, and everything else. Why is this happening? This was avoidable! What part of the process broke down and allowed this to happen???? More to come on this, trust me. To all the stakeholders, now is the time, enough already!!!! Keep fighting Irene we are all praying for your speedy recovery . NYC and the NYPD family has you now.

In a statement from Tahliambouris family shared by Hill on X Thursday, they said she is still fighting for her life at the hospital with a fractured skull and a black eye.

She suffered a fractured skull and a black eye and is currently in the hospital, fighting for her life. Her condition is stable, and she is showing signs of recognition, giving us hope, they said.

Irene is a loving woman who has always been there to help anyone in need, always happy and in good spirits. We are devastated to even imagine the pain she is experiencing after being knocked off the stairs of the church, hitting the back of her head on the concrete while this vicious person, with no consideration for life, attacked her and took all her belongings and her car, the statement said before also criticizing the states laws on crime.

Criminals feel comfortable doing things to helpless people because the laws in our state do not hold them accountable. The recidivism rate of criminal felonies is high, yet the state refuses to change laws to remand them to jail or charge them to the fullest extent of the law. We are seeing an increase in petty crimes that are no longer prosecutable, and those people are going on to commit violent crimes, yet Albany and NYC refuse to make the necessary changes to the law to ensure these criminals are held accountable, the family argued.

We know that the District Attorney and the NYPD are giving this case the attention it deserves. We trust that they will take all necessary actions to bring the perpetrator to justice and uphold the safety of our community.

A GoFundMe campaign seeking to raise $150,000 to help with Tahliambouris recovery was recently launched by her son, Freddy.
Home News IRS can examine church's bank records amid investigation into lawmaker: appeals court

An appeals court has rejected a Kansas-based church's attempt to stop an Internal Revenue Service investigation from obtaining its bank records as part of an investigation of a state senator.

The IRS has launched an investigation into Republican state Sen. Richard Kloos, trying to determine if he owes unpaid business taxes and if God's Storehouse Topeka Church, which he founded in 2009, could be considered a not-for-profit.

A three-judge panel of the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled on Tuesday that the IRS can access God's Storehouse's bank records, upholding a lower court decision.

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Circuit Judge Michael Murphy authored the panel opinion, being joined by fellow circuit judges Nancy Moritz and Joel M. Carson.

Murphy concluded that the specific third-party summons the IRS issued in regard to God's Storehouse was not "a church tax inquiry" but focused on bank records instead of church records.

"The relevant statutory language and applicable case law are harmonious: the requirements in  7611 for initiating church tax inquiries and examinations do not apply to a third-party summons, even if summonses are issued in connection with such inquiries and examinations," wrote Murphy.

"Each of the other three courts that has examined this issue has held or concluded  7609 alone applies to a third-party summons, even when IRS issues the summons as part of a church tax inquiry or examination."

Ryan Kriegshauser, an attorney representing God's Storehouse, told The Kansas Reflector that the panel decision enables the IRS to "exploit a procedural loophole to deprive churches of their constitutional protections."

"While our client is steadfastly committed to continuing the fight for religious liberties, we will review this opinion with our client and proceed as we deem advisable," said Kriegshauser.

In November 2020, Kloos was elected to the Kansas Senate, having referenced his position as founder of God's Storehouse on his campaign yard signs.

In February 2021, the IRS launched a probe into God's Storehouse centered on whether it should launch a church tax inquiry for the tax years of 2019 and 2020.

Eventually, according to court documents, the IRS sent God's Storehouse an official notice expressing four concerns regarding the entity: "it potentially operated as a thrift store instead of a church," "it may have improperly intervened in a political campaign," "its coffee shop may incur liability for unrelated business income tax," and "the wage payments to the Klooses may incur liability for unpaid employment taxes."

As part of the ongoing investigation into the church's operations, the IRS sent a third-party summons in February 2022 to Kaw Valley Bank, where God's Storehouse had records.

In March 2023, a district court rejected the church's request to squash the IRS investigation, concluding in part that the "petitioner hasn't shouldered its burden to demonstrate that respondent didn't act in good faith when it issued the third-party summons."

"Petitioner appears to argue that an IRS examination can investigate either church records or religious activities," continued last year's lower court ruling. "But petitioner presents no authority to support its interpretation why the IRS's examination can't encompass both."

"Here, the IRS complied with the church audit procedure requirements, then followed the administrative requirements before issuing a summons to Kaw Valley Bank."
The potent opioid fentanyl may have claimed yet another life.

An 8-year-old boy's death in Kentucky, initially thought to be caused by an allergic reaction to strawberries, has been linked to fentanyl.

The Hopkins County Coroner's Office told People Magazine that Trey Major Harris' cause of death was determined to be "fentanyl intoxication," while the manner of death remains "undetermined."

In a previous press release, Madisonville Police Department said that it received a call about a boy "not breathing and unresponsive at his home" around 6:30 AM on Friday, March 15.

Trey's family disclosed to authorities that he had eaten several strawberries from a school fundraiser the night before and began showing signs of an allergic reaction.

They reported that they gave him Benadryl and soaked him in a bath, but when his symptoms persisted, the family decided to take the eight-year-old to the emergency room.

After returning home having not been evaluated, Trey went to sleep and was later found unresponsive.

Concerned over the potential outbreak, the Hopkins County Health Department issued a warning asking individuals not to eat strawberries purchased at the fundraiser as they would need to be examined by the FDA and state lab.

After a test proved negative, police issued a search warrant for Trey's stepfather, Antonio Person, who was arrested at his home on Tuesday, March 26, following authorities' discovery of a firearm, drugs, and drug paraphernalia.

Person, 33, was charged with trafficking fentanyl, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

The convicted felon was booked into the Hopkins County Jail, where he was also charged with second-degree manslaughter, and is expected to appear in court on Friday, April 12, according to records reviewed by People.

An obituary for Trey remembered him as someone who "left an indelible mark on all blessed to know him and had dreams of becoming a police officer because he loved helping others."
Home News Ohio church sues White Lives Matter members over arson attack in response to drag show

A church in Ohio that suffered an arson attack last year after it agreed to host drag shows has sued the guilty party and members of the extremist group he is affiliated with for damages.

Earlier this year, 20-year-old Aimenn Penny was sentenced to 18 years in prison for trying to destroy the Community Church of Chesterland with Molotov cocktails for hosting a drag show.

The congregation, affiliated with the theologically liberal United Church of Christ denomination, filed a complaint against Penny and members of the group White Lives Matter Ohio in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, Eastern Division, on Wednesday.

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The church is seeking compensatory and punitive damages over the organization's involvement in the attack on the congregation, which was a violation of their civil rights.

The defendants are accused of six counts: "Conspiracy to Interfere With Civil Rights," violation of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances & Places of Religious Worship Act, a FACE Act violation specifically directed at Penny, "Civil Liability for Vandalism, Desecration, or Ethnic Intimidation," "Trespass to Land," and "Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress."

The plaintiffs are represented by the law firm Jones Day and the Anti-Defamation League, a progressive Jewish American advocacy organization that monitors antisemitic groups and other extremist elements.

The lawsuit describes White Lives Matter Ohio as the state chapter of a national network that "requires members to coordinate with each other on activism events and encourages alignment with similar extremist groups, such as Blood Tribe, in order to amplify their shared message of hatred."

"These members attended several White Lives Matter Ohio rallies and 'activism' events culminating in the March 2023 attack on Community Church," the complaint contends.

"These rallies and 'activism' leading up to the attack on the Community Church were directed at others engaged in advancing racial or social justice similar to the practices of the Community Church members, and demonstrate Defendants' increasingly hateful and violent conspiracy to deprive Plaintiffs from practicing their diverse and inclusive religion."

ADL Senior Director of National Litigation James Pasch said in a statement Wednesday that the lawsuit "meticulously documents how members of a local White Lives Matter chapter conspired to deprive members of the Community Church of Chesterland of their church property."

"Their resultant actions in targeting a community church with a hate crime are not just morally abhorrent, they are a clear violation of federal civil rights and property law," Pasch continued.

In March 2023, Penny threw two Molotov cocktails at the Community Church in an effort to burn down the sanctuary in response to the congregation's decision to host a drag show. While the property was damaged, the drag shows went on as scheduled.

Penny was arrested and charged by the end of the month, facing a count of possessing a destructive device and a count of malicious use of explosive materials.

A joint effort by the FBI Cleveland Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Chester Township Police Department led to the arrest, according to Special Agent in Charge Gregory Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office.

"The FBI leveraged its task force and its specialized resources to identify, locate and subsequently arrest the subject earlier today," said Nelsen in a statement last year.

"We thank the collaborative work and strong partnership of the Chester Township Police and Lake and Geauga County local authorities who assisted."

Penny pleaded guilty last October to violating the Church Arson Prevention Act and using fire and explosives to attempt to commit a felony. He was sentenced to 18 years in January.

"This sentence holds Mr. Penny accountable for carrying out violence against an Ohio church because he disagreed with the way congregants chose to express their beliefs," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the U.S. Justice Department's National Security Division in a statement earlier this year.

"Such acts of extremist violence have no place in our communities and the Justice Department is committed to bringing to justice those who would use or threaten violence to prevent their fellow citizens from freely exercising their fundamental rights."
Home News United Methodist General Conference to have queer clergy caucus at event

The United Methodist Churchs legislative meeting will have an unofficial caucus of LGBT-identified clergy advocating for changes in the denominations stance on homosexuality.

Known as the United Methodist Queer Clergy Caucus, the group will be present at the UMC General Conference, scheduled to take place April 23-May 3 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

On its website, the caucus identifies its members as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people who are called, commissioned, and ordained clergy in the United Methodist Church.

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At present, the UMC Book of Discipline prohibits the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals and bars clergy from blessing same-sex unions, emphasizing that homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.

United Methodist Bishop Thomas Bickerton, who serves as president of the UMC Council of Bishops, told The Christian Post that past General Conferences have had similar caucuses.

If you define an LGBT-themed caucus as any organization that actively lobbies to change the Discipline, then the answer is yes. There have been caucuses that have been organized. They've organized events, they've fought to advocate to organize delegates at General Conference to do that, Bickerton explained.

There's all sorts of caucuses that are formed, even though they may not be technically caucuses. Things like the United Methodist Association of Retired Clergy, or Mainstream United Methodist Church, which is advocating for changes in the Discipline.

Bickerton also told CP that the caucus itself is not in violation of the Book of Discipline since anyone can advocate for change on any matter and the majority of the petitions that are submitted to the General Conference call for some kind of change on some topic.

The restrictions on endorsing homosexuality have to do with what conferences and general agencies fund, not what various groups that are not a part of the structure of the United Methodist Church say or do or advocate, he added.

Bickerton was referencing paragraph 613 in the Book of Discipline, which states that the UMC General Council on Finance and Administration will ensure that no annual conference board, agency, committee, commission, or council shall give United Methodist funds to any gay caucus or group, or otherwise use such funds to promote the acceptance of homosexuality or violate the expressed commitment of The UMC not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends.

Mark Tooley, president of the theologically conservative Institute on Religion and Democracy, told CP that he believes caucuses like the UMQCC are becoming irrelevant as United Methodism fully adopts their agenda, which the 2024 General Conference undoubtedly will do.

Denominations are fading in importance, Tooley said. We are helping to preserve orthodox and Protestant teachings by stressing the great traditions even as the historic institutions fade.

Over the past few decades, the UMC has been embroiled in a divisive debate over whether to change its rules prohibiting the ordination of clergy in same-sex romantic relationships and the blessing of same-sex unions.

Although efforts to change the rules at General Conference have always failed, many progressive leaders within the denomination have actively refused to follow or enforce the regulations.

Since 2019, approximately 7,500 congregations, mostly conservative, have left the UMC in response to the ongoing debate and the refusal of many progressive leaders to enforce the rules.

In addition to the many conservative churches that have left the UMC, the theologically conservative publication and advocacy group Good News will leave the denomination as well.

In an interview with CP in February, Good News President Rob Renfroe, who is currently a UMC elder, explained that the upcoming General Conference would be their final one.

"Good News has no desire to influence the policies or the future of the UMC," Renfroe said.

"That is very different from the past when we fought for a biblical view of marriage, high moral standards for ordained clergy, and a host of policies we believed would renew and reform the church.
Home News Woman, 85, kills gunman and survives after he shot her multiple times

Christine Jenneiahn, a gutsy 85-year-old mother who killed a gunman who invaded her home and survived despite being shot multiple times, will not be prosecuted for defending herself and her disabled son, officials said.

In a statement released Tuesday, Bingham County Prosecutor Ryan Jolley ruled the killing of the 39-year-old gunman, Derek Ephriam Condon of Blackfoot, a justifiable homicide under Idaho state law.

The law in Idaho regarding self-defense is clear under Idaho Code section 19-202A. No person in this state shall be placed in legal jeopardy of any kind whatsoever for protecting himself ...  In addition, an individual acting in self-defense is not required to wait until he or she ascertains whether the danger is apparent or real, and need not retreat from any place that person has a right to be, Jolley wrote. A person may stand his ground and defend himself or another person by the use of all force and means which would appear to be necessary to a reasonable person in a similar situation and with similar knowledge without the benefit of hindsight.

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According to a statement of the facts in the case, Jenneiahn was asleep in her home in Bingham County, where she lives with her disabled son, David Jenneiahn, when she was woken up by an unknown man, later identified as Derek Condon at around 2 a.m.

Condon was reportedly dressed in a military jacket, black ski mask, and was pointing a gun and flashlight at her. The gunman then handcuffed the 85-year-old woman to a wooden chair inside her living room. She said Condon hit her on the head at some point during the home invasion but she couldn't recall exactly when.

Condon then asked her where the valuables were kept in the home, and placed his pistol against her head after she told him she didnt have much. After telling Condon that there were two safes downstairs in the home, he left her handcuffed in the living room and went downstairs multiple times and rummaged through several rooms in the house, Jolleys statement said.

When Condon learned that Christines disabled son was also inside the home, he allegedly became angry with her and started threatening her life.

He also made numerous threats to Christine telling her that he would kill her, Jolley said.

While Condon was busy going through the womans belongings in the downstairs level of the home, she told investigators that she pulled the chair to which she was handcuffed into her bedroom and retrieved a 357-magnum revolver she kept under her pillow.

She then returned to where Condon had left her and hid the gun between the arm rest and cushion of a couch next to where she was seated.

When Condon returned to the living room, Christine Jenneiahn said Condon made further threats against her life and thats when she decided it was now or never.

She brandished her 357 magnum and engaged Condon striking him with both her shots.

Condon returned fire and emptied a 9mm pistol into Christine striking her multiple times in her abdomen, leg, arms, and chest. Condon then went to the adjoining kitchen where he died from his wounds, Jolley said.

The elderly woman fell to the floor of her home and remained handcuffed to the chair for approximately 10 hours.

Her disabled son eventually came upstairs later in the morning and gave her a phone to call 911.

Deputies responded immediately at approximately 12:17 p.m. and provided lifesaving measures to her, Jolley said.

In an interview with Local News 8, Jolley said Condon had previously interacted with Jenneiahn at her former pawn shop and gun range, and likely targeted her.

"Based on some of the statements from her brother, as well as what we know from the scene, it appears that he picked her specifically because he knew her and knew that she likely would have valuables in her home," Jolley told the news outlet.

In his assessment of the case, Jolley called the brave mother who stood up to her attacker heroic.

This case presents an easy analysis of self-defense and justifiable homicide. It also presents one of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of. Condon was still in the act of his violent home invasion when Christine chose to engage him with deadly force, Jolley said.

That Christine survived this encounter is truly incredible. Her grit, determination, and will to live appear to be what saved her that night. Absent a clear attempt by Condon to retreat from the residence or surrender, he added. Christine was justified in taking any and all means necessary to defend herself and her son that night.
Home News Chuck Swindoll stepping down as senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church

Notable Evangelical pastor, author and radio personality Chuck Swindoll is stepping down as senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church, a Texas megachurch based in Frisco, but he will continue to preach on Sundays.

The 89-year-old pastor, who has held the position since 1998, will take on the role of founding pastor effective May 1, according to a statement from the elders of Stonebriar. Jonathan Murphy, the chair and professor of Pastoral Ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary, will become the church's new senior pastor.

"Pastor Chuck will continue to preach God's Word at the pulpit on Sundays, while Jonathan will shepherd our day-to-day ministries and fill in at the pulpit when requested," stated the church.

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"Pastor Chuck will continue to serve as mentor and advisor to Jonathan, and at the appropriate time in the future, Jonathan will then assume primary pulpit duties."

According to the church, the decision to have Murphy join the staff as senior pastor was the product of two years of discernment, with Swindoll believing that "Jonathan would be a great fit for the position."

"We are excited to welcome Jonathan as our Senior Pastor, and we're grateful that God has provided this servant-hearted leader who aligns with our commitment to teaching biblical truth," the elders added.

A native of El Campo, Texas, Swindoll graduated magna cum laude from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1963, earning honors like the Harry A. Ironside Award for Expository Preaching.

He has served multiple churches as a pastor, including Grace Bible Church of Dallas, Texas, Waltham Evangelical Free Church of Waltham, Massachusetts, and Irving Bible Church of Irving, Texas, during the 1960s, and First Evangelical Free Church of Fullerton, California, from 19711994. He founded Stonebriar in October 1998.

In July 1979, Swindoll, along with his wife Cynthia, started Insight for Living Ministries, a Bible study radio program that eventually spread to all 50 states and over 2,100 outlets worldwide by April 2020.

Swindoll was honored by the National Religious Broadcasters by being inducted into the Christian media organization's Hall of Fame in 2000.

Swindoll has authored several books and devotionals, including Abraham: One Nomad's Amazing Journey of Faith, Clinging to Hope, Day by Day with Charles Swindoll, Encourage Me: Caring Words for Heavy Hearts, The Grace Awakening, A Healthy Body: Characteristics of a Contagious Church, What If ... God Has Other Plans?, and Hand Me Another Brick: Timeless Lessons on Leadership.

Murphy, a native of Northern Ireland who serves on the board of Insight for Living Ministries, has been a frequent guest preacher for Swindoll at Stonebriar Community Church.

According to a biography page, Murphy is a child of missionary parents raised in the Canary Islands and Spain. Before joining the seminary, Murphy served as a pastor in Northern Ireland.

In a video discussion, Swindoll and Murphy said their friendship and mentorship go back years, even before Murphy was considered to take over as senior pastor.

"It is a blessing for me to be able to minister alongside of you," Murphy told Swindoll. "God was at work long before we knew He was at work in our relationship and had plans in mind that were not revealed to us when we were walking together. ... What we came to found out was that also was what God was doing in the hearts of elders in church unbeknown to me and to you. God was at work with them. Then they came to let you know of their interest not knowing that you and I were walking so intimately."
Home News Cornel West taps Black Lives Matter activist Melina Abdullah as his 2024 running mate

Independent presidential candidate Cornel West has chosen his running mate as he seeks to increase the number of states where he has ballot access.

On Wednesday, West announced that Melina Abdullah, a founding member of the Black Lives Matter Los Angeles chapter, would be his running mate in the 2024 presidential election.

He unveiled Abdullah, a professor of Pan-African Studies at California State University, Los Angeles, as his vice presidential pick in an appearance on "The Tavis Smiley Show" Wednesday.

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"It is my profound honor to stand alongside my dear sister, Dr. Melina Abdullah, a fierce and tireless advocate for truth, justice, and transformative change," West said in a statement. "Sister Melina's incredible courage, keen intellect, and deep vision have greatly served the cause of liberation in education, worker rights, and both racial and gender justice."

West praised her "unique Black analysis," saying it will help "confront our crumbling era of empire, white supremacy, and patriarchy."

"I look forward to working with her as we strengthen our commitment in our campaign for truth, justice and love!" West wrote.

Abdullah said she is "deeply honored and humbled" to be selected as West's vice presidential running mate.

"This campaign offers a real vision for the world that stands in opposition to the oppressive forces and holds fast to the universal principles of truth, justice, and love," she stated.

"As we work arm-in-arm with justice-loving people everywhere, we reimagine and work to build a world that chooses goodwill over greed, courage over cowardice, and liberation over exploitation. Together, we are igniting a movement to not only dismantle harmful systems, but establish the firm foundations of a just, nurturing, and free world."

Even before her selection as West's running mate, Abdullah has received national attention.

In 2018, Abdullah conducted a libation at the Hollywood United Methodist Church in an attempt to summon the energy of late civil rights activists and African Americans who died in police custody. At the time, Christian scholar Hamilton Ayuk suggested that she was violating Scripture by pouring out a libation for someone besides the God of the Bible.

In 2020, radio host Abraham Hamilton III played audio clips of Abdullah discussing how she and fellow Black Lives Matter activist Patricia Cullors have "become very intimate with the spirits that we call on regularly."

Abdullah described the Black Lives Matter movement as a "spiritual movement," adding, "We're literally standing on spilled blood." Hamilton suggested that Abdullah and others "really believe that the names of the folks that they are saying have become ancestral gods."



West is the second independent presidential candidate to announce a running mate in an attempt to juice a White House bid.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. selected Nicole Shanahan as his running mate late last month.

As of April 11, West has secured ballot access in just four states: Alaska, Oregon, South Carolina and Utah. These states have a combined 26 electoral votes, far short of the 270 required to win the presidency.

In the RealClearPolitics average of polls taken between March 21 and April 9 asking voters who they plan to support in the 2024 presidential election, West secures 1.7% support in a five-way race. He finishes slightly ahead of Green Party candidate Jill Stein, who has 1.5% support while remaining far behind former President Donald Trump's 41.9% and President Joe Biden's 40%. Kennedy comes in a distant third, with his support among the American electorate measured at 10%.

West initially entered the race last year, seeking the nomination of the little-known People's Party. He eventually switched to the Green Party before deciding on an independent run.

Key pillars of West's campaign platform include "fighting to end poverty, mass incarceration, ending wars and ecological collapse, guaranteeing housing, health care, education and living wages for all."

"I care about the quality of your life, I care about whether you have access to a job with a living wage, decent housing, women having control over their bodies, healthcare for all, deescalating the destruction of the planet, [and] the destruction of American democracy," West insisted in his campaign launch video.

Abdullah's addition to West's presidential ticket makes her the fifth female vice presidential candidate in the 2024 presidential election. Vice President Kamala Harris is on the Democratic presidential ticket as Biden's running mate, while Kennedy has picked Shanahan as his running mate.

Two lesser-known presidential candidates, Gloria La Riva of the Party for Socialism and Liberation and Peter Sonski of the American Solidarity Party, have also selected female running mates: Karina Garcia and Lauren Onak, respectively. If elected, the West-Abdullah ticket would be the first administration to feature non-white candidates in the offices of both president and vice president.
Home News First Baptist Abilene Pastor Brandon Hudson resigns after arrest

The pastor of a historic large Baptist church in West Texas has resigned two weeks after being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Forty-four-year-old Brandon Hudson, the senior pastor of Texas' First Baptist Church Abilene, submitted his resignation Sunday after over a year as senior pastor.

At the church's Sunday morning service, Bob Ellis, introduced by the church's personnel committee chair, read Hudson's letter of resignation and asked the congregation to keep Hudson and his family in their prayers.

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Mike Greenfield, the pastor for administration and spiritual development at First Baptist Church Abilene, told The Christian Post on Thursday that the church is navigating the sudden change in the best way it can because the news was unfortunate and unexpected.

"The resignation was just received Sunday. We've just had a couple of days to digest it," Greenfield said. "This all just happened. It's still pretty raw and fresh."

Greenfield said it's unclear who the next senior pastor will be as the church must follow its bylaws during the selection process.

The church, founded in 1881, announced Hudson's arrest two weeks ago, veteran journalist Loretta Fulton of Spirit of Abilene reports.

Hudson was arrested on March 23, the day before Palm Sunday, at U.S. Highway 84 near Snyder, Texas, during a trip from Lubbock to Abilene, according to Baptist News Global.

Hudson's final sermon at the church was preached on Sunday, March 17. He was absent in the pulpit for Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday.

"Over the past several months, I have struggled to deal with concurrent issues of grief and stress that have placed me in mental strain," Hudson was quoted as writing in his letter of resignation.

"I have not dealt well or fully with the emotions that have been attached to those griefs and stresses. These factors culminated in an episode of horrific decision-making. A decision I regret and am already working to address in multiple ways."

Hudson said he didn't seek "any exoneration on my choice" but hoped to encourage them "to take care of one another, to seek help when you need it, and to practice vulnerability about your struggles."

A prayer service and question-and-answer time for the congregation was held Tuesday.

Hudson's online biography page has since been removed from the First Baptist Church Abilene website.



An archived version of the page states that the congregation appointed Hudson as the senior pastor on Dec. 18, 2022, by an overwhelming vote.

The Lubbock native has degrees from Texas Tech University and Truett Seminary of Baylor University. He began his ministry at First Baptist Abilene on Feb. 5, 2023.

Hudson's predecessor, Phil Christopher, retired from the church in September 2021 after 26 years of service. The congregation's Pastor Search Committee unanimously recommended Hudson to FBC.

Before coming to FBC, Hudson served for five years as a youth pastor in Texas churches and 15 years as a senior pastor in two churches in North Carolina and Alabama.

"I love people and their stories [and my passion is] to help others explore the way their stories connect to the grand narrative of God's grace through proclamation and pastoral care," he wrote.

Hudson was the 19th senior pastor in the church's history, but he was only the fifth senior pastor in the last 70 years.
Home News Hamas says it doesn't have 40 living Israeli hostages necessary for ceasefire deal

Hamas has told international mediators it can't identify 40 living hostages who meet the requirements for a U.S.-backed ceasefire deal as American and Israeli officials increasingly fear most of the people still held captive may already be dead.

The proposal for a six-week ceasefire consisted of Hamas releasing 40 hostages, including women, children, elderly men and those in poor health, in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The terrorist group, however, told international mediators that it does not have 40 living hostages who meet that criteria.

Officials familiar with negotiations told The Wall Street Journal this week that estimates from the U.S. indicate most of the hostages are already dead. However, the U.S. has limited information on the hostages and is dependent on Israeli intelligence.

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Both Israeli and American officials estimate that the number of deceased hostages is higher than they previously believed.

U.S. officials told the outlet that the hostages may have died due to health reasons, including injuries they sustained when they were taken captive. Some U.S. officials said that a few hostages could have been killed during Israeli strikes on Gaza.

A Hamas official has reportedly said the terror group won't commit to releasing 40 living hostages but could commit to 40 hostages total, which would suggest some would be dead. The Israeli military and the prime minister's office wouldn't state publicly their estimates on how many hostages remain alive.

There are believed to be 130 hostages remaining in Gaza. In February, an Israeli intelligence report confirmed the deaths of 34 of the hostages taken by Hamas. According to The New York Times, the report stated that some of the captives were killed on Oct. 7, the day the terrorist group launched its assault against Israel.

After Hamas militants broke through the border on Oct. 7, the terrorists slaughtered at least 1,200 people, primarily civilians, and they abducted over 240 others.

In response, Israel launched an offensive In Gaza to eradicate Hamas and secure the release of the hostages. The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry claims at least 33,000 people have been killed since the war began. However, these numbers don't distinguish between civilians and combatants.

During a temporary ceasefire last year, over 100 hostages were released as part of a deal that included Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners convicted of violent crimes, such as stabbing Israeli soldiers.

Last weekend, Israeli authorities confirmed the death of Elad Katzir, a 47-year-old farmer abducted by Hamas during the group's Oct. 7 attack. The terror group took Katzir from Nir Oz kibbutz and held him captive in Khan Yunis, a city in Gaza.

The Israel Defence Forces and Israeli Security Agency said that the farmer died while he was held prisoner by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist organization. The IDF and ISA announced that they had retrieved the man's body after an overnight raid.

"The body of the abductee Elad Katzir, who according to intelligence was murdered in captivity by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization, was rescued overnight from Khan Yunis and returned to Israeli territory," the Israeli agencies announced in a statement.

In a statement on social media, Katzir's sister, Carmit Palty Katzir, said that one "consolation" is that her brother "will have a grave in Nir Oz." Carmit was critical of the Israeli government, asserting that it could have done more to prevent her brother's death.

"Elad was kidnapped from his home in Nir Oz alive and well and filmed twice from captivity," the sister wrote. "He could have been saved if a deal would have happened on time. Our leadership is cowardly and devoid of political considerations, and therefore, it didn't happen."

"Eladi, may the memory of you be of laughter, hugs and joy, fields and soil," she added. "That is not how your story ought to have ended. Please forgive us for failing to save you. I will love you forever."
Home News Regulators pull potato chip ad that stoked outrage for mocking Eucharist: 'This is a hate crime'

Italys advertising standards authority pulled a 30-second TV ad by an Italian snack company after it stoked outrage and accusations of blasphemy among Roman Catholics for replacing the Eucharist with potato chips.

The Institute of Advertising Self-Discipline yanked the ad for Amica Crisps, which depicts a heavy-set mother superior at a convent pulling a bag of chips from the cabinet when she realizes the ciborum is out of Eucharistic wafers.

When a group of nuns later receives the Eucharist during Mass, one of them is pleasantly surprised when she receives a potato chip instead of a wafer. After the camera pans to the obese mother superior chowing down on the rest of the chips in the sacristy, the ad closes with "il divino quotidiano," which means, "the divine everyday."

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The commercial prompted backlash from many Catholics who claim it was irreverent toward the Eucharist, which the Catholic Church teaches is transubstantiated into the literal body of Christ during the Mass.

Lorenzo Marini Group, the company behind the ad, acknowledged that the commercial was "irreverent," but claimed it was "aimed at a young target audience" and that they were going for "a strong British-style note of irony," according to The Telegraph.

Giovanni Baggio, who heads a Catholic association that monitors TV and radio, blasted the TV spot as "blasphemy" and said it "offends the sensitivity of millions of practicing Catholics," according to The Guardian.

Baggio also said the commercial "shows a lack of respect and creativity," and is "a sign of an inability to do marketing without resorting to symbols that have nothing to do with consumption and crunchy food."

Baggio's group, the Italian Association of Radio and Television Listeners, filed a formal complaint requesting the ad be removed from the air, claiming it "offends the sensibility of millions of practicing Catholics."

Avvenire, a Catholic newspaper run by the Italian Bishops Conference, accused the crisp company in an editorial of cheapening the body of Christ to a snack food, according to the Catholic Herald.

"Christ has been reduced to a potato chip," the newspaper wrote. "Debased and vilified like 2,000 years ago."

The newspaper further accused the ad of "spitting" on Jesus "just as the Roman soldiers did to him before his crucifixion."

Gavin Ashenden, who served as Queen Elizabeth II's chaplain until leaving the Church of England in 2017 to become Catholic, echoed the complaints about the ad during an interview with GB News this week.

Ashenden, who also serves as an editor at the Catholic Herald, pushed back against any assertion that Christians offended by the commercial are lacking a sense of humor.

"The Gospels are full of Jesus telling jokes, and we're very much in favor of humor because humor brings down pompous, powerful people, but this isn't humor," he said. "This is a hate crime. This is something that's right at the heart of what we believe as Catholics, and it's precious to us. The mockery of it is as deeply offensive as one could imagine."

Ashenden went on to assert that no company would dare mock Muhammad or gay marriage, just as no one in China would make fun of the Chinese Communist Party and no one in Russia would ridicule Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Why should the hate crimes that are being aimed at Christians be the only ones that people are exempt from being responsible for? It's really profoundly offensive, and it should be stopped," he said.

Ashenden also noted the irony of the fact that the ability to mock Christianity with impunity is a fruit of the tolerance that emerged from Christian thought, which he warned is steadily eroding as popular culture continues to undermine it.

"The only reason this can happen in Europe is because we have a Christian atmosphere in which people are free to express themselves," he said. "But if you destroy the very foundation upon which human freedom has been built, then you might lose the freedom. And you don't have freedom in Iran, China or Russia. So don't knock the Christian culture, which has produced the very freedom that this crisp company are abusing."
Home News 'Religious leaders' sign declaration denouncing 'religious nationalism,' promoting progressive causes

A group of Christian clergy, theologians and scholars who took part in the inaugural conference of the Yale Divinity Schools Center for Public Theology & Policy this week signed a declaration denouncing so-called "religious nationalism."

In a document titled the "New Haven Declaration of Moral & Spiritual Issues in the 2024 Presidential Election," the group of self-described "religious leaders" also pledged to devote themselves to promulgating progressive causes, and warned that "traditional values" are being politically weaponized.

Signatories led by Bishop William J. Barber II, a progressive activist who founded the Yale Center for Public Theology and Public Policy, claimed there is "a well-funded, coordinated political movement has co-opted our faith tradition and is exploiting so-called 'traditional values' to undermine democracy and divide people across this land."

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Barber, who co-chairs the Poor Peoples Campaign: A National Call for a Moral Revival and held a private meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris in February, featured prominently in the recent documentary "God & Country." The film produced by Rob Reiner suggested there is an encroaching "Christian nationalism" that finds its most egregious embodiment in former President Donald Trump and his supporters.

Without naming specific individuals or organizations, the New Haven Declaration suggests those who adhere to such religious nationalism are motivated solely by political power and blinded to the important moral issues that the document goes on to list.

"This distorted religious nationalism has persuaded many well-meaning Christians to focus on a narrow set of divisive cultural wedge issues while ignoring the real moral issues that are at the heart of our Scriptures and tradition," the declaration read.

The declaration does not define what it means by "traditional values" or "cultural wedge issues," but in a 2019 interview with Intelligencer, Barber suggested "the Christian right" is "a slaveholder religion," linked Christian nationalism to "white Evangelicalism," and denounced those who care about flashpoint issues such as abortion and school prayer as heretical.

"To suggest that if youre against abortion, youre against womens right to choose, youre for guns, for prayer in schools, for tax cuts, a Republican, then you have taken the moral position, that is modern-day heresy," Barber said at the time. "And we have to challenge it. But were not just going to challenge it just emotionally. Were saying if you want to have a discussion about morality from a biblical standpoint, then lets have a real one."

The New Haven Declaration signatories go on to publicly "repent" of not more effectively preaching and teaching against religious nationalism, while pledging "to proclaim in word and deed a public theology that is good news for all people."

After claiming to follow in the moral tradition of Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, William Lloyd Garrison, Ida B. Wells, Reverdy Ransom, Walter Rauschenbusch, Francis Perkins, Howard Thurman, Reinhold Niebuhr, Rosa Parks, Martin King, Dorothy Day, Pauli Murray, John Lewis, Fannie Lou Hamer, and James Reeb, the signers of the New Haven Declaration explained what they believe to be "the critical moral and spiritual issues of the 2024 Presidential election."

"[W]e join our voices as religious leaders to launch a season of preaching the moral issues of living wages and union rights, healthcare and ecological justice, an end to the spilling of innocent blood, a re-imagination of criminal justice, and the protection and expansion of voting rights and equal protection guarantees," they wrote.

After describing such issues as the "weightier matters of the law," the declaration goes on to imply that the issues of concern to the Right are "manufactured controversy about minor issues."

While acknowledging it is not the job of pastors to instruct others how to vote, the declaration noted that clergy "have a responsibility to make clear how the tradition of Jesus and the prophets speaks to the world today."

"We must challenge our congregations and the wider public to choose carefully and wisely which candidates for public office best represent our true moral values," they added.

Other signers of the New Haven Declaration include Yale Divinity School Dean Greg Sterling, Affirming Ministries presiding bishop Yvette Flunder, Unitarian Universalists Association President the Rev. Sofia Betancourt, The Irresistible Revolution author Shane Claiborne, and others.
Home News University ordered 500 feet of nylon rope for 'Introduction to Bondage' BDSM workshop: report

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) ordered more than $100 worth of materials for a BDSM workshop for students canceled in February after sparking backlash, internal documents show.

Five hundred feet of black nylon rope and 1,000 "extra heavy duty" paper grocery bags were among the items that Assistant Director of Health and Wellness Ryan Anderson ordered for the "Introduction to Bondage" workshop by the school's Office of Health and Wellness, according to documents obtained by Campus Reform.

When The Collegiate Commons broke news of the Feb. 13 workshop featured as part of IUPUI's "Healthy Relationships Week," the event drew wider media attention and went viral on X after the popular Libs of TikTok account posted about it.

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This is an actual event taking place in @IUPUI. An Introduction to Bondage Workshop where they will learn about rope bondage, BDSM, and s*x play.



These people want us to pay off their student loans. pic.twitter.com/yNtT6SUJZY  Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) February 6, 2024

The event, which was to be taught by a "renowned local expert" named "Fynch" who has reportedly penned pornographic stories posted to an online fetish platform, including at least one story about gang rape, was ultimately canceled amid the outrage.

"Bondage is a form of consensual and recreational sex play that involves tying, restraining, or binding a person with rope, handcuffs, or other items that can restrict movement," a description of the course read, which was later deleted.

"Attend this workshop to learn the ropes (literally) with an introduction to rope bondage taught by a local expert. All materials are provided to give you hands-on experience with safe rope tying techniques."

Anderson described the course to The Collegiate Commons as "an hour-long workshop, with the first portion being our instructor Fynch talking about basic bondage techniques, skills, and safety, consent and communication with bondage, and in general, and demonstrating a few ties on her partner."

"The second part of the workshop will be an opportunity for participants, based on comfortability, to practice basic ties demonstrated first by our instructor. Nylon rope will be provided and, I along [with] our instructor and others, will be walking around to assist," Anderson continued.

Neither IUPUI nor Anderson responded to The Christian Post's request for comment by publication.

The Indiana University School of Social Work (IUSSW) also reportedly promoted the BDSM workshop. Internal emails obtained by Campus Reform showed that Devina Jani, a social worker at IUSSW, alerted the Office of Health and Wellness to the public backlash.

Eric Teske, who serves as director of health and wellness promotion, replied to Jani by informing her that the workshop had been canceled but that they "planned the event with the best intentions and appreciate you helping to market our Healthy Relationships Week initiatives."

Teske also apologized, saying, "I'm so sorry IUSSW's cross posting was mentioned in that story in a negative light."
Is this the face that launched a thousand ships?

A banquet hall adorned with spectacular paintings of mythological characters and legendary heroes has been discovered among the ruins of Pompeii, officials announced Thursday.

The "spectacular" dining room featured "elegant black walls" with remarkably preserved frescoes of subjects inspired by the Trojan War, as told by the Greek poet Homer, according to a news release from the Archaeological Park of Pompeii.

The room was uncovered during excavations of block 10 in the ninth section of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which was destroyed and buried under ash in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79.

"The dominant theme seems to be that of heroism, shown by the depictions of pairs of heroes and deities involved in the Trojan War, but also of fate and, at the same time, of the possibility, often not seized, that humans have of changing their own destiny," the park said.

According to legend, the Trojan war was set off when Helen, the wife of the king of Sparta and said to be the most beautiful woman in the world, eloped with  or was abducted by  Paris, the prince of Troy.

Along with Helen and Paris, the frescoes also feature the god Apollo, and Cassandra, who in Greek mythology was gifted with foresight but cursed by Apollo with an inability to alter the course of events.

According to archeologists, mythological figures are often found in Roman houses, where they "had the explicit social function of entertaining guests and table companions, providing talking points for conversations and reflections on life."

"The walls were painted black to prevent the smoke from the oil lamps being seen on the walls. People would meet to dine after sunset; the flickering light of the lamps had the effect of making the images appear to move, especially after a few glasses of good Campanian wine," Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the Director of the Archaeological park of Pompeii, said in a statement.

"The mythological couples provided ideas for conversations about the past and life, only seemingly of a merely romantic nature. In reality, they refer to the relationship between the individual and fate: Cassandra who can see the future but no one believes her, Apollo who sides with the Trojans against the Greek invaders, but being a god, cannot ensure victory, Helen and Paris who, despite their politically incorrect love affair, are the cause of the war, or perhaps merely a pretext. Who knows?" Zuchtriegel said.

"These days, Helen and Paris represent us all: each day we can choose whether to focus solely on our own private lives or whether to explore the way our lives are entangled with the broad sweep of history, thinking for example, not just of war and politics, or of the environment, but also of the atmosphere we are creating in our society, communicating with others in real time and on social networks," Zuchtriegel said.

The room has an area of about 49 feet by 20 feet, and opens to a courtyard with a long staircase leading to an upper floor. On the arches of the undecorated staircase, which appeared to be unfinished with building materials nearby, archeologists found charcoal drawings of two pairs of gladiators and what appears to be an enormous stylized phallus.

More than a third of Pompeii remains unexcavated and unseen by archeologists. The excavation of block 10 in the ninth section is part of a larger project to shore up part of the perimeter between the excavated and unexcavated areas, officials said.

 with reporting by TMX
Ukrainian priest could face prison for 'espionage'

A Ukrainian priest abducted by Russian occupiers nearly a year ago could face 12 years in prison after a secret court trial for alleged espionage, contrary to international law, according to rights watchdog Forum 18.

The Rev. Kostiantyn Maksimov, 40, from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) was charged with espionage under Article 276 of the Russian Criminal Code. The Russian Prosecutor's Office in occupied Zaporizhzhia announced the trial on its website on March 29.

The prosecutor's office alleges, without evidence according to Forum 18, that Maksimov used "an internet messenger transmitted to an employee of the Ukrainian security service information with the coordinates of the deployment of Russian air defense technical equipment located in the city and district" between April 2022 and February 2023.

Before his arrest, Maksimov was a Ukrainian orthodox priest at the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in Tokmak city, in Zaporizhzhia, now under Russian occupation.

Russian forces stopped and detained the priest in Chongar town in May. At the time, he tried to cross the boundary line with occupied Crimea. No one had knowledge of the priest's welfare since the initial arrest 10 months ago until the announcement of the trial.

Pro-Russian politician Vladimir Rogov pronounced a guilty verdict regardless of the trial's outcome on his Telegram channel on March 31.

"The accomplice of the Ukrainian special services was caught transferring confidential data to his overseers in Kyiv," Rogov wrote of Maksimov, according to Forum 18. "The information leak threatened the security of Russia and all residents of the Zaporizhzhia Region."

Forum 18 stated that the trial is illegal under international law because an occupying country is not allowed to enforce its own laws in occupied territory. The laws of occupation verified by several countries, including Russia, at The Hague on Oct. 18, 1907, appear to support this view. Article 43 states that when the authority of a "legitimate power" is passed to an occupier, it should be "respecting, unless absolutely prevented, of the laws in force in the country."

No further details are known about a trial date or lawyers involved with the priest, despite Forum 18's repeated approaches to Russian authorities. An unnamed official at the Zaporizhzhia Region Prosecutor's Office refused to give details to Forum 18 about the trial date, prosecutor's name, name of the judge, or Maksimov's location.

The official said the office had "many cases" but "of course" the priest had a lawyer, though he had no further information about the attorney.

"We have no greater rights than the defense side," the official told Forum 18. "Everything will be decided by the court."

Russian occupiers disagree about the exact location of Maksimov's trial. The court hearing is at the Russian Zaporizhzhia Regional Court in Melitopol, according to Zaporizhzhia Region Prosecutor's Office.

The Crimean Supreme Court in Simferopol, however, is the real location, according to Yelena Shapovalova, head of the Bar Association in the Russian-occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Region. No trial notification appeared on the Crimean Supreme Court's website as of this writing.

Shapovalova declined to tell Forum 18 the name of Maksimov's appointed lawyer during the pre-trial investigation.

"That period has now ended, and the lawyer's work thus came to an end," she reportedly said from her office in Melitopol on Monday (April 8).

Shapovalova confirmed that none of the priest's relatives signed an agreement with a lawyer. She also revealed that Maksimov had been at a temporary holding center in Melitopol during the pre-trial investigation. There was no indication of his present whereabouts.

The Rev. Vladimir Saviisky, another priest from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, knew Maksimov personally and called news of the secret court trial, "terrible."

"This was to be expected," he told Forum 18. "The Russians threatened me with this also. Had they not deported me, I would have been sitting next to him in a prison cell."

Saviisky reportedly endured pressure from Russian occupiers to support the Russian Orthodox Church's dominance of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church's Berdyansk Diocese.

He served as priest of St. Nicholas Church in Primorsk, an occupied town near the Azov Sea in Zaporizhzhya. Saviisky refused to sign his church over to the Russian Orthodox Church, despite several interrogations, and fled to Ukrainian-controlled territory in June.

Artyom Sharlay, head of the Religious Organizations Department at Zaporizhzhia Regional Administration's Social and Political Communications and Information Policy Department, made unverified claims about Maksimov to Forum 18 in October 2023.

He said the priest opposed the Berdyansk Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church being linked to the Russian Orthodox Church, which has controlled the Diocese since May 2023.

Christian Daily International has previously reported on the plight of Ukranian Orthodox priests suffering in Russian occupied parts of Ukraine.

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The Republican-led Tennessee legislature has overwhelmingly voted to send the Republican governor, Bill Lee, a proposal that would ban marriage between first cousins.

The statehouse adopted the law on Thursday by a vote of 75-2, following the senate's unanimous approval earlier in the session.

Rep. Gino Bulso, a Republican who was one of the opponents who spoke up, spent the majority of the debate advocating for an amendment that would allow marriages between first cousins if the couple first sees a genetic counselor.

Bulso jokingly mentioned during a previous committee hearing on the bill that his grandparents were first cousins who immigrated to the US from Italy in the 1920s and later went from Ohio to Tennessee for their marriage. Bulso voted in favor of the bill on that committee while he and the other MPs giggled.

The socially conservative attorney then argued that gay couples are not at risk of their married cousins having a child with birth problems during Thursday's floor debate.

He claimed that there was no compelling government interest to ban same-sex cousins from getting married, saying that would violate the US Supreme Court's gay marriage ruling.

Furthermore, he used the phrase "grievously wrong" to frame his argument against the Supreme Court's ruling legalizing gay marriage.

Legislation targeting the LGBTQ+ community has received Bulso's support, including a bill he is proposing that would outlaw displaying Pride flags in public school classrooms, a move that civil liberties advocates claim violates the US Constitution.

Bulso asked if there was a public health issue with a male marrying a male first cousin. He noted that he thinks the answer is no.

Ultimately, lawmakers rejected Bulso's proposal and approved the ban proposed by Democratic representative Darren Jernigan.

"I hope it's safe to say that in 2024, we can close this loophole," Jernigan said.

According to Jernigan, a 1960 attorney general's ruling held that a Tennessee law from the 1820s restricting some family weddings does not prevent first cousins from getting married.

In response to Bulso, he said that his law did not violate the rule on gay marriage.

Republican representative Monty Fritts was the other member to vote against the bill.
Several large UK charities have reported spending millions more on staff salaries due to minimum wage rises introduced this month, and commissioners have been urged to cover their increased costs.

Mencap, Age UK and Sue Ryder have reported that their salaries have risen by 6.7m, 1.7m and 1m respectively after increasing staff pay following the legislation changes introduced on 1 April.

Social care charity Alternative Futures Group also recently announced it has increased pay for 1,800 frontline workers, amounting to a 4.6m investment.

But some charities and umbrella bodies said pay increases are not being covered by commissioners and urged public sector bodies to increase funding.

Rhidian Hughes, chief executive of the Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG), said: In some areas authorities are offering very low fee uplifts, and some none at all, which is directly restricting investment in services, the workforce and poses a significant risk to ongoing financial viability.

Sarah Vibert, chief executive of NCVO, said: Its unacceptable that many commissioners arent even meeting the cost of the statutory minimum wage.

We need to see charities grants and contracts uplifted so they can pay staff fairly for their expert skills, which benefit so many communities.

Charities: Varied uplifts for the year ahead

Last week, the government increased the minimum legal pay rate for anyone aged 21 and over, now known as the national living wage (NLW), by 10% to 11.44 per hour.

Earlier this year, a government impact assessment estimated the rises could cost charities 200m over six years.

Mencap told Civil Society it has increased pay for its 5,206 support workers by more than 7.6%, which it said would cost the charity around 6.7m.

While we hope that the annual uplifts in the funding we receive from local authorities and the NHS will cover this cost, we are concerned that it wont be the full amount, a spokesperson said.

So far we have seen very varied uplifts for the year ahead, with some councils offering over 7%, and some offering nothing.

We wont know the final cost to Mencap until later into the financial year when those conversations have all been finalised.

Sue Ryder said it has boosted salaries for 1,230 retail, healthcare and business support staff, which it said equates to an additional cost of around 1m.

Alan Bowers, chief operating officer at Sue Ryder, said the charity supports the minimum wage rises but has not been covered for its employees pay increases.

For the majority of our palliative and end-of-life care services, we are yet to receive an uplift to our commissioned funding, he said.

However, it is unlikely that any future increase will match the increased costs we are facing due to the increase in National Living Wage.

Sue Ryder currently only receives around one third of the money required to run our palliative and end-of-life care services. We will continue to highlight the critical importance of sustainable hospice funding to the government.

Meanwhile, Age UK said it had increased pay by between nine and 10% for its 912 retail staff following the NLW increase, resulting in an investment of circa 1.7m per annum.

Umbrella bodies: Ever-widening gap in fee uplifts

Hughes of VODG said: The increase in the national living wage is very welcome for valued care and support staff delivering essential services.

We are very concerned about the ever-widening gap in the fee uplifts paid by public sector commissioners. In some areas authorities are offering very low fee uplifts, and some none at all, which is directly restricting investment in services, the workforce and poses a significant risk to ongoing financial viability.

Third sector providers are doing all they can to reward the care workforce, as we saw recently with AFG increasing pay for its 1,800 frontline workers but the funding decisions being made by central government make service delivery increasingly challenging.

Vibert of NCVO said: Attracting and retaining skilled and committed staff is vital for charities and we know that many charities are struggling with this. Low pay and short-term contracts driven by lack of sustainable funding make recruitment particularly difficult in the charity sector.

Our research into the true cost of delivering public services revealed that underfunded grants and contracts are making recruitment and retention of staff more difficult for 83% of charities. 45% of charities told us that theyre having to subsidise minimum wage salaries because their grants and contracts arent sufficient.

Its unacceptable that many commissioners arent even meeting the cost of the statutory minimum wage. We need to see charities grants and contracts uplifted so they can pay staff fairly for their expert skills, which benefit so many communities.

Earlier this year, the Local Government Association warned that councils in England face a 4bn funding gap over the next two years, with many authorities expected to cut services.

In response to the spring budget , chair Shaun Davies said councils core spending power in 2024-25 had been cut by 23% in real terms compared to 2010-11.

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The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said on Wednesday it was opening an investigation into a March 3 fatal crash between a Ford F.N Mustang Mach-E and two stationary cars on the I-95 interstate highway in Philadelphia.

In March, the NTSB said it was investigating the use of an advanced driver assistance system in a Ford Mustang Mach-E that was involved in a Feb. 24 fatal crash in San Antonio, Texas in which the Mach-E struck rear of a Honda CR-V that was stationary in a traffic lane on Interstate Highway 10.

Ford offers BlueCruise, an advanced hands-free driving system that operates on 97% of U.S. and Canadian highways with no intersections or traffic signals.

The NTSB said it is investigating in coordination with the Pennsylvania State Police, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Ford said Wednesday it was recently made aware of this incident by the NTSB and has informed the National Highway Transportation Safety Association (NHTSA) as required.

NHTSA requires automakers to report all fatal crashes involving advanced driver assistance systems.

We are researching the events of March 3 and collaborating fully with both agencies to understand the facts, Ford said.

NHTSA did not immediately comment.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported the crash closed the busy section of I-95 for several hours after the fatal accident.

The NTSB has opened several investigations in recent years into advanced driver assistance systems including Teslas TSLA.O Autopilot.

(Reporting by Shepardson; Editing by Leslie Adler and David Gregorio)
A young girl and her guardian have sued an Oregon nonprofit organization, Portland Public Schools and Multnomah County for $9 million, alleging they were negligent when male classmates sexually abused her at school and raped her during an after-school program when she was a 9-year-old third grader.

The child, who is now 11, attended a Portland elementary school and an after-school program operated by Multnomah County on her school campus in partnership with Latino Network and Portland Public Schools.

The lawsuit says the girl was subjected to multiple episodes of nonconsensual sexual touching during school hours. In March 2022, she hit a male classmate in the face to protect herself when he touched his mouth to hers, but the lawsuit said the school suspended both her and her attacker for the incident.

The next month, two other male students trapped her in a bathroom stall during recess at their after-school program and raped her, the lawsuit said. The school learned about the assault when the parent of one of the male perpetrators heard about it from their child and reported it.

The lawsuit alleges the school and after-school program failed to immediately notify law enforcement and undertook an internal investigation. It says school district personnel interviewed the girl without notifying law enforcement or her parents of the sexual assault or about their interview.

The school suspended the two males for one day and said they would stay in school with a safety plan. But the girls father didnt believe this would keep his daughter safe and so enrolled her and her younger brother in another Portland public school. Both the girl and her brother missed almost one month of schooling as a result.

The lawsuit said Portland Public Schools should have known that the plaintiff was vulnerable and at risk of continued sexual assault by male students. It alleges the school district was negligent in failing to adequately train and teach students about appropriate sexual boundaries and how to report abuse.

The lawsuit alleges the school system made the plaintiff feel that she would be reprimanded if she protected herself from unwanted sexual contact. It says the school system was negligent for failing to report the students vulnerabilities to after-school program staff and to train employees to monitor, recognize and report child sex abuse.

It alleges Latino Network and Multnomah County were negligent for failing to maintain awareness of students during the after-school program and adequately train after-school program employees to monitor, recognize and report child sexual grooming and abuse.

Portland Public Schools said in a statement that it learned of these new allegations when it received the lawsuit, and it is investigating. It said it is required to report any instance of possible child abuse and neglect to the Oregon Department of Human Services, and such reports are confidential.

We take our responsibilities as mandatory reporters seriously and follow the law around reporting, it said.

Multnomah County said it does not comment on pending litigation. Latino Network said the news of the lawsuit is painful to the organization, which is committed to trauma-informed practices.

We take the allegations very seriously and are working with our legal representation to provide counsel to our organization, it said.

The lawsuit was filed on March 20 in Circuit Court in Multnomah County.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Suncor Energy Inc.s majority-owned Syncrude Canada Ltd. unit was fined C$390,000 ($287,000) for an oil-sands mine workers death, one of a string of fatalities that prompted an investor revolt.

Syncrude, which is operated and 59% owned by Suncor, pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the safety of the worker, who drowned in 2021 when the excavator he was operating slumped into water and the cab became submerged.

The death was one of multiple fatalities at Suncor-operated oil-sands mines in recent years, a safety record that was a central theme of activist Elliott Investment Management LPs campaign to shake up management.

The fine will be paid to the David and Joan Lynch School of Engineering Safety and Risk Management, the University of Alberta Geotechnical Centre and the Alberta Municipal Health and Safety Association and be used to develop an employer best-practice guide and field-ready mobile application.

Suncor agrees with the fine, spokeswoman Sneh Seetal said.

Steps have been taken to improve the safety practices while working around water, she said.

Top photo: Pipes at a oil-sands extraction site near Fort McKay, Alberta.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
The company responsible for a global recall of sleep apnea machines will be barred from resuming production at U.S. facilities until it meets a number of safety requirements, under a long-awaited settlement announced by federal officials.

Philips will be required to overhaul its manufacturing and quality control systems and hire independent experts to vet the changes, according to a court order announced by the U.S. Department of Justice. The company must also continue to replace, repair or provide refunds to all U.S. customers who got the defective devices, the department said.

The action is a major step toward resolving one of the biggest medical device recalls in history, which has dragged on for nearly three years.

Most of the devices recalled are continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machines. They force air through a mask to keep mouth and nasal passageways open during sleep. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to dangerous drowsiness and increased risk of heart attack.

Philips has recalled more than 5 million of the machines since 2021 because their internal foam can break down over time, leading users to inhale tiny particles and fumes while they sleep. Efforts to repair or replace the machines have been plagued by delays that have frustrated regulators and patients in the U.S. and other countries.

Lawyers for the federal government alleged that the company failed to comply with good manufacturing practices needed to ensure device safety. The company did not admit to the allegations, according to the court filing.

This office, the FDA and our partner agencies are committed to holding manufacturers accountable when they violate the law and put the public at risk, U.S. Attorney Eric Olshan said in a statement.

Under the legal agreement, Philips must hire independent auditors to create a plan for fixing its manufacturing problems and for monitoring problems with the sleep devices. The plan must then be approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The experts must also certify that new foam selected by the company meets FDA safety standards.

Jeffrey Reed, of Marysville, Ohio, experienced persistent sinus infections and two bouts of pneumonia during the seven years he used a Philips machine.

I worry about my long-term health, Reed said. I used this machine for years and no matter what money I might get out of this, whats going to happen?

Reed received a newer Philips device after returning his old machine, but he doesnt like to use it, preferring a competitors device.

I dont trust the company, Reed said. I dont want to use it.

Reed is one of more than 750 people who have filed personal injury lawsuits against the company over the devices. Those cases have been consolidated in a federal court in Pennsylvania.

Similar lawsuits are pending in Canada, Australia, Israel and Chile, according to the company.

The Dutch manufacturer announced in January it had reached a tentative agreement with the FDA and the Department of Justice. But U.S. regulators wouldnt confirm the deal at the time because it had not yet been reviewed by a federal judge.

A company spokesman said Tuesday the agreement provides a roadmap of defined actions, milestones, and deliverables to meet relevant regulatory requirements, in an emailed statement. He noted that Philips will still be able to export some machines for sale outside the U.S.

The FDAs website warns patients that the risks of ingesting the sound-dampening foam could include headache, asthma, allergic reactions and more serious problems.

An FDA inspection of Philips Pennsylvania offices in the fall of 2021 uncovered a spate of red flags, including emails suggesting the company was warned of the problem with its foam six years before the recall.

Between 2016 and early 2021, FDA found 14 instances where Philips was made aware of the issue or was analyzing the problem. No further design change, corrective action or field correction was conducted, the FDA inspectors repeatedly noted.

In 2022, the FDA took the rare step of ordering Philips to step up its outreach to customers about the recall including clearer information about the health risks of its products. At the time, the agency estimated only about half the people in the U.S. with affected machines knew they had been recalled.

Customers trying to obtain refunds or new or refurbished devices from the company have reported long delays.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
CLEVELAND, Ohio A Boogaloo Bois group member pleaded guilty to federal charges that he threatened to kill police officers and federal agents and burn down buildings.

Aron McKillips, 30, of Sandusky, faces a range of about two-and-a-half to three years in prison after he pleaded guilty to sending interstate threats and possessing a machine gun, according to court records filed on Friday.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Secretary of States Frank LaRose of Ohio and Wes Allen of Alabama look to be both sporting yellow and orange colored Trump Totality Ballot Access Eclipse glasses.

Both LaRose and Allen have sent belated letters to the Biden campaign, the DNC and state party officials warning that President Biden will be kept off the Ohio and Alabama ballots if he doesnt meet each states early nomination notification deadlines that are before the Democratic Convention to be held in Chicago August 17-22.

If this Office has not received a valid certification of nomination from the Democratic Party following its convention by the statutory deadline, I will be unable to certify the names of the Democratic Partys candidates for President and Vice President for ballot preparation for the 2024 general election, Allen wrote echoing the warning from LaRose.

Since 2009, Ohio law requires each major party convention to name their nominee 90 days before the November election to get the candidate on the ballot. July 15-18 are the dates for the Republican convention in Milwaukee. Alabama has had a similar notification law since 1975.

Previously, since 1975 and 2009, any misalignment of the party conventions and state notification of nominee deadlines were always resolved quickly and amicably in a bipartisan manner via one-time waivers and extensions.

The Biden campaign noted that in their response to the warnings:

Joe Biden will be on the ballot in all 50 states. State officials have the ability to grant provisional ballot access prior to the conclusion of presidential nominating conventions. In 2020 alone, states like Alabama, Illinois, Montana, and Washington all allowed provisional certification for Democratic and Republican nominees.

LaRose had sent his warning letter just a week ago. His spokesman Ben Kindel said that was because staff was focused on the primary election.

Ultimately, both political parties have well-paid attorneys who are capable of advising them on the legal requirements for ballot access. Each party sets their own bylaws, organizes a national convention and establishes rules for certifying candidates to the ballot. Our office is not involved in that process.

Ohio and Alabama blocking Biden from the ballot would be a clear violation of the 14th Amendments Equal Protection Clause.

Whats really changed since 1975, is the Republican party has now been MAGAtized becoming the Trumplican Party.

Trump of course will be certified to be on the Ohio and Alabama ballots. The only question is if hell also be on them as a candidate convicted in New York for a felony, misdemeanor, or acquitted, awaiting 3 more trials on rest of 88 felony counts?
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Music can transport you  not only emotionally, but physically  to another time and place.

Cleveland Orchestra fans who hopped on guest conductor Klaus Makela's magic carpet at Severance Music Center on Thursday evening were swept away to the streets of Lima to hear Peruvian street vendors hawking their goods, then to England for a ramble through the Malvern Hills, and finally to ancient Iraq to quaff wine with the king of Babylon and a thousand of his idol-worshiping lords. Although the evening didnt turn out well for Blshazzar, Waltons music raised the roof of Mandel Concert Hall by a yard or two with resplendent orchestral and choral sound.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Were well into spring in Northeast Ohio, meaning warmer weather conditions and more road construction projects.

That also means more traffic disruptions for commuters. The Ohio Department of Transportation has released an updated list of projects that will impact traffic over the next few weeks in the Cleveland area.

See the list below:

Downtown Cleveland

Ohio 176 north to West 14th Street will be closed between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. on April 21 and April 22 for routine bridge inspection. The detour is Ohio 176 to Interstate 90 to West 41st Street to I-90 to I-71.

Ohio 176 between I-71 and I-90 will have various lane restriction between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. from April 21 through April 26 for routine bridge inspection.

Cuyahoga County

I-90 eastbound just east of Columbia Road will be in a bi-directional traffic pattern beginning Wednesday and continuing through July for bridge deck replacement. All lanes of traffic are maintained. However, one lane of eastbound traffic will be maintained on the I-90 westbound side separated by a concrete barrier wall. Two lanes of traffic are on the existing eastbound side.

Ohio 17 (Brookpark Road) between West 52nd Street and I-480 eastbound ramps will have various lane restrictions and traffic-pattern shifts beginning Monday and continuing through August for resurfacing.

I-480 eastbound and westbound between Rocky River Drrive and just east of West 150th Street will have various off-peak lane restrictions for overhead bridge repairs beginning Monday and continuing through mid-April.

I-271 between Emery Road to Fairmount Road will have various off-peak lane restrictions and ramp closures beginning on Monday and continuing through September for resurfacing.

I-480 westbound over Northfield Road will have various lane restrictions beginning Monday and continuing through April 19.

U.S. 422 westbound over Richmond Road will have various lane restrictions beginning Monday through April 19 for bridge repairs.

U.S. 422 westbound over Miles Road will have various lane restrictions beginning Monday and continuing through April 19 for bridge repairs.

U.S. 422 westbound between Brainard Road and I-480 will have various lane restrictions and traffic-pattern shifts beginning April 22 and continuing through May for bridge repairs. All lanes of traffic will be maintained.

Geauga County

U.S. 422 at Mumford Road will have various lane restrictions beginning today (April 12) and continuing through July for culvert replacement.

U.S. 422 westbound to Mumford Road northbound will be closed to all truck traffic beginning April 26. The detour is Main Market Road to Claridon Troy Road to Tavern Road.

Ohio 608 at Alexander Road will have one lane of traffic maintained by a temporary traffic signal beginning Thursday and continuing through May for a culvert replacement.

Lake County

I-90 between Ohio 174 and Riverside Drive will have various lane restrictions and traffic-pattern shifts beginning on Monday and continuing through October for slope repairs.

Mantel Road over Ohio 2 will be closed from April 22 through mid-August for bridge replacement. The detour is U.S. 20 to Ohio 535.

Medina County

Ohio 162 between Ridge Road (Ohio 94) and State Road will close April 22 for a culvert replacement. The detour is Ohio 162 east to Ohio 94 north to Ohio 18 east to I-77 south to Ohio 21 south to Ohio 162 west, and reverse. The project should be completed by May 3.

Portage County

Ohio 59 in Ravenna will have various lane restrictions for resurfacing beginning Monday. The project should be completed by late July.

Summit County

The ramp from I-77 northbound to I-76 westbound will be closed 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. today and Friday. The detour is I-76 eastbound to Arlington Street/Kelly Avenue to I-76 westbound.

The ramp from Carrol Street to Ohio 8 southbound will be closed at 9 p.m. Sunday through 5 a.m. Monday. A detour will be posted.

Ohio 8/I-77 southbound at the Central Interchange will be closed at 10 p.m. Sunday through 5 a.m. Monday. The detour is I-76 westbound to I-76/Kenmore Leg to I-277 eastbound to I-77.

The ramp from Ohio 8 southbound to I-76 eastbound will be closed from 10 p.m. Sunday until 5 a.m. Monday. The detour is I-76 westbound to Main Street to I-76 eastbound.

I-77/Ohio 8 southbound between Johnston Street and Carroll Street will be in a new traffic pattern beginning 5 a.m. Monday. Southbound motorists will be split into two separate lanes. The left lane will be crossed over onto the northbound direction, while the right lane will remain on the southbound side. Motorists wishing to exit at I-76 eastbound and westbound will need to remain in the right lane.

Ohio 8/I-77 northbound at the Central Interchange will close between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. nightly between Tuesday and Thursday morning. The detour is I-76 westbound to Main Street/I-76 eastbound to Ohio 8 northbound.

Lakeshore Boulevard under I-76 will close from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday for a concrete bridge deck pour. The northbound detour is South Street to Princeton Street to Russell Street to Lakeshore Boulevard. The southbound detour is Russell Street to Ohio 93/Manchester Road to South Street to Lakeshore Boulevard.

Ohio 59 between Ohio 8 and the Portage County line will have various lane restrictions beginning Monday and continuing through late August.

Trumbull County

Ohio 5 will close just north of Bushnell Campbell Road beginning April 29 and continuing through late May. The detour is Ohio 88 to Ohio 7.

Ohio 46 just south of Ohio 88 will close Monday through Thursday for a culvert replacement. The detour is Ohio 5 to Ohio 88 to Ohio 46.
British astronaut Tim Peake recently revealed that he wished to join an all-British crew on the International Space Station (ISS).

In an exclusive interview by Sky News's children's news show FYI, Peake hoped to become one of four British persons launching aboard a SpaceX Dragon for a future Axiom Space mission later this year.

"Possibly as early as next year, we're taking four astronauts back [to the ISS] to do lots of science and lots of education outreach," he said. "We're hoping to announce the whole crew in June this year."

Asked if he would be part of the mission, Peake told Sky News he hoped so.

Peake announced his decision to retire from being a European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut in January last year.

The UK Space Agency signed an agreement with Axiom Space in October, which could lead to the first all-British commercially-sponsored mission to space, sponsored by ESA.

If it passes, four British astronauts will spend two weeks in orbit aboard the ISS to carry out research, and British universities have been asked to share ideas for experiments that could be carried out in space during that time.

Axiom has since launched three missions to the ISS, with former NASA astronauts Michael Lopez-Alegria and Peggy Whitson commanding as the company's professional astronauts. If Peake is included in the all-British Axiom mission, he is expected to command it.
BLACKFOOT, Idaho  An 85-year-old woman handcuffed to a chair by an armed intruder managed to drag the chair to another room and grab a handgun, eventually killing the suspect during a shootout in which she also was wounded.

Bingham County Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Jolley issued a report Tuesday saying that Christine Jenneiahn acted in self-defense and was justified in shooting Derek Condon during the early morning hours of March 13, 2024. Jenneiahns disabled son also was in the home when the incident occurred.

In his ruling, Jolley called Jenneiahns response one of most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of.

That Christine survived this encounter is truly incredible, Jolley says in the ruling. Her grit, determination, and will to live appear to be what saved her that night.

Condon, wearing a ski mask and armed with a handgun, broke into Jenneiahns home at about 2 a.m., according to the review. Investigators believe Condon struck Jenneiahn in the head as she was sleeping, then took her to the living room and handcuffed her to a wooden chair.

The review says Condon demanded to know where valuables were kept in the home, but Jenneiahn responded that she didnt have much. Condon reportedly pointed his weapon at Jenneiahns head and she told him there were two safes in the downstairs section of the home.

Condon began searching the home and eventually found Jenneiahns son. He became angry that she had not mentioned he was in the home and made several threats to kill her, the review says.

When Condon left to again search the home, Jenneiahn dragged the wooden chair to her bedroom and grabbed her .357 magnum revolver from under a pillow. She went back to the living room and hid the revolver between the armrest and cushion of a couch.

Jenneiahn said her memory of what happened next is unclear, according to the review. Condon returned to the living room and again threatened to kill Jenneiahn, the review says. Moments later, she decided it was now or never and grabbed her revolver and fired two shots, hitting Condon both times.

Condon returned fire with his 9mm handgun and hit her multiple times in the stomach, chest, arm and leg, the report says. She fell to the floor still handcuffed to the chair, while Condon went to the kitchen and died of his wounds.

Jenneiahn remained on the floor for 10 hours before her son found her and brought her a phone so she could call 911, the report says.

Jenneiahn has been released from a hospital and is recovering, according to the East Idaho News.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  A bill that would require police officers to screen victims of domestic violence to assess the risk that they could be killed by their partners, among other changes for survivors, was again introduced in the Ohio House on Thursday.

House Bill 486 is sponsored by state Reps. Sara Carruthers, a Cincinnati-area Republican, and Juanita Brent, a Cleveland Democrat. Carruthers previously sponsored the bill with Janine Boyd, a Democrat and former state representative who now serves on the Cleveland Heights City Council and who has incorporated parts of the legislation in the city.

READ MORE: Aishas Law: What happened to the Ohio bill named after Aisha Fraser?

The bill is known as Aishas Law because its named after Aisha Fraser, a beloved mother and teacher in Shaker Heights who was stabbed to death in 2018 by her husband, former judge and state lawmaker Lance Mason, in front of their daughters. Had the law been place at the time of Frasers death, her family believes shed still be alive today.

The bill has passed the House twice but gone nowhere in the Senate.

This time, the bill is simpler. Its just 77 pages instead of that 132-page bill during the 2021-2022 legislative session.

Missing in this years bill is a section that creates a standalone law to make strangulation illegal. Although Aishas Law hasnt made it to the finish line, its strangulation provisions passed in another bill that was signed into law last legislative session.

County prosecutors were opposed to the first version of the bill because it contained too many specifications of how domestic violence cases would be prosecuted. When it was introduced for the second time, county prosecutors were on board but defense attorneys had questions about the bill.

The Cuyahoga County Public Defenders Office is reviewing the bill, attorney John Martin said. Cleveland.com/The Plain Dealer left messages with the Office of the Ohio Public Defender about the bill.

The bill still notably contains provisions requiring law enforcement, when responding to domestic violence calls, to use an evidence-based lethality assessment screening tool.

Research shows some domestic violence acts are correlated with a victim being at risk for murder, such as strangulation, which puts victims at risk for being killed 10 times higher than people who are not strangled by their partners.

Police are to refer high-risk victims to local or regional domestic violence advocacy services, the bill states.

Under the bill, officers are to provide victims of strangulation the following warning: I have a duty to warn you that strangulation is serious and can cause internal injuries, brain damage, and delayed health consequences such as strokes, thyroid issues, miscarriage, and death. Research shows that if you are strangled one time, you are more likely to be killed by your partner. I strongly encourage you to seek immediate medical attention at an emergency department and to ask for support from an advocate.

Officers can request an emergency protection order from a judicial officer during any time the court is not open for regular business if the victim consents, the bill states.

Laura Hancock covers state government and politics for The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com.
WASHINGTON, D. C. - After a debate that pitted two Ohio Republicans who chair different House committees against one another, the U.S. House of Representatives on Friday voted 273-147 to reauthorize the nations warrantless surveillance powers.

The legislation would let the U.S. government collect communications of foreign citizens located outside the the United States to gather foreign intelligence without obtaining a warrant. It also contains reform measures intended to ensure its not used to violate the Americans civil liberties.

Daytons Mike Turner, who chairs the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and Champaign Countys Jim Jordan, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, were at odds over whether the legislation to extend and reform Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) should include a provision requiring a warrant to examine data on Americans that turns up during foreign surveillance.

The arch-conservative Jordan teamed up with liberal Democrats on his committee who are skeptical of the governments surveillance powers to argue that the nations spy agencies would infringe on Americans liberties without passage of the amendment they backed, which lost in a 212-212 tie vote.

Pretty soon its going to be anybody gets searched for any darned reason they want, Jordan said on the House of Representatives floor. Thats not how it works in America, at least not how its supposed to work.

Turner argued the measure Jordan backed would undermine the nations ability to monitor the efforts of organizations like Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Communist Party of China to recruit people in the United States to harm the country.

If this amendment passes, Al-Qaeda will have full constitutional protections to recruit in the United States, the Chinese Communist Party will have full constitutional protections to recruit in the United States, and there will be no increased protection of constitutional protections for Americans and their data, Turner warned. The only data that would become protected is data that are located in Al-Qaedas inbox and the Chinese Communist Partys inbox.

Jordan, Republicans Mike Carey of Columbus and Warren Davidson of Miami County supported the amendment and voted against the overall bill, as did Democrats Shontel Brown of Warrensville Heights and Joyce Beatty of Columbus.

A statement issued by Akron Democratic Rep. Emilia Sykes said she backed the bill because it would keep her constituents safe by ensuring our government can identify and combat the complex threats our nation faces every day, from terrorist threats to fentanyl supply chains to cyberwarfare from foreign adversaries.

The measure must also pass the U.S. Senate before it becomes law. The contentious surveillance program is set to expire on April 19 without reauthorization by Congress.

Republicans kept an earlier draft of the proposal from coming to the House of Representatives floor this week, but it was allowed to proceed Friday after House Speaker Mike Johnson shortened the reauthorization period from five years to two years.

Johnson said the bill makes 56 sweeping changes to FISA, including reforms to the Federal Bureau of Investigations process of examining Americans data collected during foreign surveillance. He said it will stop the abuse of politicized FBI queries and prevent another Russia hoax debacle, among many other important reforms.

It also adds new criminal and civil penalties for non-compliance, ensures heightened scrutiny for warrant applications, holds intelligence agencies to higher standards, and enhances Congressional oversight over the FBI, his office said.

This is an important first step in that and the real culture change will come we know after the election cycle when Republicans are in charge again in the White House and the Senate in the House and well be able to really do the dramatic reforms that are necessary, said a statement from Johnson. Its critical we address these abuses because we dont want to be able to lose section 702 of FISA. Its a critically important piece of our intelligence and law enforcement in this country.

Sabrina Eaton writes about the federal government and politics in Washington, D.C., for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The death of a former state regulator has wrenched state and federal criminal cases accusing him of accepting a $4.3 million bribe from a power company before doing its bidding inside Ohios government.

Were talking about how the charges against Sam Randazzo and his businesses now stand on uncertain ground on Today in Ohio.

Listen online here.

Editor Chris Quinn hosts our daily half-hour news podcast, with editorial board member Lisa Garvin, impact editor Leila Atassi and content director Laura Johnston.

Youve been sending Chris lots of thoughts and suggestions on our from-the-newsroom text account, in which he shares what were thinking about at cleveland.com. You can sign up here: https://joinsubtext.com/chrisquinn.

You can now join the conversation. Call 833-648-6329 (833-OHTODAY) if youd like to leave a message we can play on the podcast.

Heres what else were asking about today:

The death by apparent suicide of Sam Randazzo, the former utilities chief who was facing criminal charges in two courts, has an impact on other defendants charged in the massive FirstEnergy bribery case. Jake Zuckerman talked to experts on what could happen next in those cases. What did he find?

ATF chief Steve Dettelbach, the former U.S. Attorney in Cleveland, has an idea for finally closing the gun show loophole that has funneled uncountable guns into the streets, outside the the background check process that puts some rigor around the purchase process. What does he propose to do?

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine wants more people wearing seat belts, but lawmakers dont like his methods. Where do they disagree?

Reporter Marc Bona looked back over the Cleveland weekend like none in our history. How did Cleveland do, and what are the long-term ramifications?

Weve talked a lot in the past couple of years about the Jane Edna Hunter Building, the office building for Health and Human services workers that has been a makeshift shelter for kids with no place to go. County Executive Chris Ronayne has big plans for ending that problem. When can we expect that building to finally close?

The national media have had plenty of stories this year about how China has been cornering the world market for electronic vehicles, which they sell for prices far lower than U.S. automakers. The cars of a top China export. Now Sherrod Brown has taken notice. What does he want to do about it?

We have a direct flight from Cleveland to Jamiaca now, but travel writer says it might not last. Why not, and did Susan have any fears about traveling in Jamaica, where the U.S. has warned people to reconsider their travel?

Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb campaigned on modernizing City Hall, and he just rolled out a new data portal that contains quite a bit of good information, easily accessed from your cell phone. What can people find there so far?

What is the Cleveland Clinic planning it is re-imagined Fairview Hospital campus?

We have an Apple podcasts channel exclusively for this podcast. Subscribe here.

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No transcript today because of technical difficulties.
ALLIANCE, Ohio -- Many of us learned in public school how a symbiosis is a close biological relationship between different species. Most of the time, these relationships are co-dependencies that benefit both species. Sometimes theyre fatal. Tragically, as a growing number of Christians have tried to assert their influence in political arenas, the accelerating ties between some Christians and Republican leaders dependent on their votes have devolved to the detriment and mutation of both.

As a Christian, a conservative, and a Republican, the most disappointing events of the last 20-plus years have not only been the detestable conduct of highly educated Republican leaders, but also how tens of millions of Christians, across denominations, have thrown their support behind those who perpetrate such conduct. Never could I have imagined Christians choosing to turn a blind eye towards lying, cheating, stealing and sexual abuse so they could win restrictions on gay marriage and abortion.

Equally tragic is how millions of Christians have chosen to turn a blind eye toward Republican policies thoroughly antithetical to the beliefs they espouse.

We need only look back to the year 2000 when 40% of George W. Bushs vote came from evangelical Christians. Then, in 2004, Karl Rove masterminded even more Christians to support Bush by putting anti-gay marriage amendments on ballots in 11 states, including Ohio.

And what did we achieve with this effort to ban gay marriage? We achieved the Bush presidency which, while asleep at the wheel, gave us 9/11, an unnecessary war in Iraq, soaring deficits and the great financial crisis of 2008.

In addition, all the efforts to outlaw gay marriages have proven ineffective. From 2000 through 2006, the number of same-sex couples grew from 594,000 to nearly 780,000. By 2021, the number of same-sex households grew to 1.2 million. In addition, the number of adults who think same-sex couples should be recognized by law as valid grew from 35% in 1999, to 71% in 2023. Tragically, efforts to control the moral choice of adults, much like efforts to control drinking during Prohibition, proved counterproductive.

Like Pope Francis, while I dont encourage gay lifestyles, I refuse to disparage them and try to treat those who have chosen an LGTBQ lifestyle with respect and to extend the dignity all should be afforded. Christ, who largely ministered to those rejected by society, would have done no less.

With respect to abortion, in 1973, when Roe v. Wade was first decided, there were 616,000 abortions. By 1990, the number of abortions peaked at 1,427,000. By 2021, abortions fell back to 626,000. Tragically, since the Dobbs decision overturning Roe, the number of abortions in 2023 rose sharply to 1,023,000.

While I personally believe all non-medically-necessary abortions are a tragic loss of life, these facts indicate that efforts to outlaw abortions have largely been ineffective. Perhaps, instead of supporting candidates trying to impose restrictions on adult women with early-term pregnancies and laws that fail to provide flexibility for medically necessary conditions later in pregnancies, we ought to double down on pouring our resources and hearts into loving and supporting women struggling with an unwanted pregnancy.

George Zadigian is a semi-retired construction and engineering project manager.

Tragically, beyond efforts to win restrictions on gay marriage and abortion, millions of Christians have been deceived into supporting MAGA Republicans who continue to press for taking health care away from tens of millions of people, cutting funding for public education, protecting gun rights at the expense of child safety, abandoning democratic allies overseas while aligning with authoritarians, abandoning protections for our environment, and abandoning the rule of law and voting rights.

Given the huge stakes of the upcoming election for our country and the reputation of the faith we espouse, perhaps it would be worthwhile for all of us to push back from whatever political alignment we thought supported our primary concerns, take a closer look at the conduct and policies of candidates, and reflect on who really most closely aligns with our most fundamental beliefs.

George Zadigian is an engineering project manager.

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A necessary read for the girls, gays and theys and our allies as we navigate a rapidly changing, culturally fraught, complicated country where our bodies are constantly being legislated. Sign up for Honey today!

On Tuesday, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled to uphold an 1864 law  written before Arizona was granted statehood in 1912  which essentially bans all abortion, allowing exceptions for threats to the mothers life, but not for rape or incest.

I just think it was a really dark day in our history that the Supreme Court ruled the way that they did, Arizona State Sen. Anna Hernandez said.

On Wednesday, chaos ensued as House Democrats tried to open discussion on an appeal and Republicans blocked it, though not everyone in the party is supporting the ruling.

The Guardian published an Instagram post highlighting contradictory statements Arizona politicians have made, including Rep. Juan Ciscomani who applauded the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, but called for action against the latest ban.

Todays ruling is a disaster for women and providers... We must do better for women and I call on our policymakers to immediately address this, he said.

Following a trend of Republicans saying that the party needs to back off enforcing abortion restrictions, NBC reports Trump said Arizonas law went too far, and that he would not sign a nationwide abortion ban if he were elected, according to the Associated Press.

Phoenix-based civil rights lawyer and constitutional law expert Robert McWhirter told Reckon that its very rare for pre-statehood laws to be reinstated, but recent actions by legislators led to this.

The more recent law specifically had a provision that affirmed this older law, so it wasnt ever meant to be superseded and that was by design by the legislators who did that, he said.

In March 2022, Arizona enacted a 15-week abortion ban as the U.S. Supreme Court litigated the future of Roe v. Wade, in anticipation that it would be overturned.

What they had with the overturning of Roe vs. Wade was a catastrophic success, said McWhirter.

Hernandez also pointed out that this 15-week ban specifically has language that does not repeal the 1864 law, calling out her Republican peers who voted in favor of the ban in 2022, but are backpedaling now.

I want everybody thats watching whats happening in Arizona to know that this was always the plan. The plan was always to have a full out abortion ban in Arizona, because the language existed in that bill in 2022, she said.

Confusion surrounds when this ban will go into effect. As the Arizona Republic reports, the court stayed enforcement for 14 days. By some accounts, an Oct. 2022 order prevents the law from being enforced until 45 days after the states Supreme Court issues a mandate. Arizonas Attorney General Kris Mayes told KJZZ there could be a 45 to 60 day period before it goes into effect.

Doctors will soon be operating in a gray area, though its unclear when

The future of how long physicians are free to provide care is unclear. While Mayes said she will not prosecute doctors who perform abortions or people who have them, that does not prevent county attorneys from pursuing charges.

But there are other county attorneys out there. We dont know exactly what theyre going to try to do. Ive said Im going to do everything I can under my supervisory authority over them to prevent them from prosecuting doctors and health care professionals, Mayes told KJZZ on Wednesday.

McWhirter also pointed out that Arizona has a 7-year statute of limitation for most criminal charges.

That means anytime within the next seven years, a different attorney general could come in and start prosecuting. There also was still an open question whether county attorneys have the power to prosecute these crimes. The governor wrote an executive order stating that they dont, but that could be challenged in court as well, he said.

Without a clear indication of what to expect, theres concern for healthcare professionals who might be working in gray areas.

You are now having physicians who are scared to do their job, that they did without batting an eye before the overturn of Roe, Dr. Atsuko Koyama, physician at Camelback Family Planning told CBS.

Reckon reached out to the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Arizona and received this comment from Banner Health, which operates medical systems.

We are assessing the impact of the Arizona Supreme Court decision on our providers and patients.

Hernandez said that the law also posed a threat to physicians ability to provide in the future.

At the end of the day, a lot of the medical providers are going to do their job based on the context of the law, said Hernandez. Even if theyre not gonna face prosecution, the reality is that they are still in jeopardy of losing their license.

Camelback Family Planning in Phoenix performs about one-fourth of abortions in the state, according to CBS, and hopes to continue service while the legalities are sorted out.

Our plan is to stay open as long as possible, Ashleigh Feiring, a nurse who works at Camelback told CBS. Our clinic has been shut down twice in the last four years, but weve always resumed service.

Abortion funds will remain in operation but need your help

Hannah Taleb has been a collective member of the Tucson Abortion Support Collective (TASC) for about seven years. She said that in times like this, the work TASC does becomes even more imperative, something they learned when the Dobbs decision came down in 2022.

Clinics shut down the next day. We had clients who had appointments that were canceled and not honored. It became very clear to us, I was like theres no way that we shut down, we have to help these people get to their abortions, and we did that, she said.

TASC provides information on cost and where to access care, guiding people towards abortion next steps. Taleb told Reckon that TASC has not received a large influx of calls regarding out-of-state travel yet, because abortion is still available in Arizona.

We and other groups have really been vocal about if you have an appointment, keep it. Thats really imperative because you can still have that appointment and almost everywhere saying that they will stay open for the 45 day stay period, she said.

With the uncertainty surrounding the 1864 law, TASC is working closely with partner clinics and waiting to see how they move.

If we learned anything from 2022, its just that different organizations are going to take their different levels of risk, and we just have to keep ourselves abreast of whats going on, she said.

Funding is essential to the work TASC and other abortion funds like the Yuma Abortion Fund and Indigenous Women Rising do. Taleb says the best way to support their efforts is to donate to local funds.

There are so many places you can give money to and just know that all of these groups, we are going to be committed to getting people abortions no matter what happens in 45 days, she said. Abortion finds a way and were going to help people figure it out.

Arizonans were already working on getting abortion constitutionally protected. On April 2, the Arizona Mirror reported that the Arizona for Abortion Access campaign gathered over 500,000 signatures, more than the 383,923 required to qualify for the November ballot. Hernandez said this is essential to ensure peoples rights remain intact.

I want to make sure that people understand that anything that is not protected and codified by right in the constitution of Arizona is not protected, said Hernandez. So until we get that ballot measure across the finish line in November, our rights are going to continue to be under attack.
Dont you hate it when good news turns out to be meh and is actually a whole lot of bad news?

The Environmental Protection Agency loves to do that.

This week, the EPA passed yet another new environmental rule: limiting the level of highly toxic and cancer-causing forever chemicals permitted in our drinking water.

The substance, also known by a very long scientific name or simply PFAS, is used to manufacture products resistant to water and oil, such as nonstick pans, water-repellent clothing, cosmetics, firefighting foams and sex toys. It takes thousands of years for them to break down in nature and theyve been found on Mount Everest and inside 99% of humans.

Im still talking about chemicals, okay?!

Studies show PFAS are linked to serious health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues and liver and kidney disease, even though tests show they only make up a tiny amount of whats in our bodies, about four parts per billion. Its not an easy number to quantify. If expressed in time, it would represent four seconds within 32 years. That said, research says forever chemicals are dangerous.

The new rule is expected to save thousands of lives. Hey, thats good news!

However, the burden of filtering our PFAS-laden drinking water will fall on water utilities, most of which are publicly owned and not-for-profit. A majority of the nations water utilities serve fewer than 3,000 people. The government expects industry-wide compliance to cost about $1.5 billion per year. However, utility executives say the costs will be far higher and ultimately fall on taxpayers in the form of increased rates that could, if youve been reading your Reckon news, disproportionately affect low-income people and communities. Bad news.

It seems odd that the EPA, whose authority to create rules and regulations is granted by a Congress that receives tens of millions of dollars from the chemical lobby every year, should ask the public to shoulder the cost of cleaning drinking water. All while the industry that created the problem continues to legally dump forever chemicals in our rivers, lakes and bays. Bad news.

But it doesnt just affect humans. PFAS have been found in even higher levels among animals, placing a greater strain on wildlife conservation efforts to protect hundreds of threatened and endangered species in the United States and worldwide. Whos filtering their water? Bad news.

This week, we examine the state of wildlife conservation in the United States and how the reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone National Park changed the flow of rivers.

Before you read on, please feel free to follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. And share this newsletter with your friends if you think theyll enjoy it.

Drizzle

One of the 35 Denver Mountain Park bison stands in a corral as it waits to be transferred to representatives of four Native American tribes and one memorial council so they can reintroduce the animals to tribal lands Wednesday, March 15, 2023, near Golden, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)AP

Wildlife conservation in the United States dates back to the 1850s when sport hunters realized that prolific for-profit market hunters were wiping out some of the nations most prized animals. Fortunately for the American Bison, also known as the buffalo, President Teddy Roosevelt was also a concerned observer, witnessing their numbers fall from 30 million to just a few hundred in the late 1800s.

His efforts helped the bison recover and popularized the conservation movement. He also created the foundations of the Endangered Species Act, which turned 50 last year. The act brought back dozens of at-risk animals, including the bald eagle, the American alligator and the grizzly bear, from near extinction. But dont forget the Dixie Valley Toad or the incredibly rare Alabama sturgeon, which hasnt been seen in over a decade.

If you follow climate change and environmental news, you probably think the world is on the brink of ecological disaster. You could argue it is, but wildlife preservation efforts in the United States have been highly successful and remain strong, even as populations and cities grow.

Theres a lot to be very hopeful about if youre willing to look past the depressing stories, said Dr. Rob Pringle, professor with the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University. Bald eagles were nearly extinct in the early 60s. They now routinely visit my backyard in Princeton. The American Prairie Reserve has also been a wildlife success.

But Dr. Pringle acknowledges that some species cannot realistically be saved from extinction, which is sometimes perfectly natural. But he is concerned about societys interest in outdoor wildlife.

While Americans seem more knowledgeable than ever about the environmental and climate threats facing humanity, Dr. Pringle says there are worrying signs that people are losing interest in being outside.

There are studies that show fewer people are camping, birdwatching, hunting and fishing, he said. Thats a worrying decay in outdoor engagement. Everything is turning into online and artificial intelligence, the future and colonizing space and all that stuff.

Compost Dump

WOLVES REINTRODUCED TO YELLOWSTONE PARK (Photo by William Campbell/Sygma via Getty Images)Sygma via Getty Images

Species conservation isnt simply dumping animals in a national park and hoping for the best. The introduction or reintroduction of certain species can have an astounding effect on nature, even changing how rivers behave.

In 1995, Yellowstone National Park witnessed the return of wolves after a 70-year absence. They were brought back to address elk overpopulation that had taken the parks vegetation and ecosystems to the brink. The elk faced no predators and ate what they wanted when they wanted. It caused erosion and habitat loss. Then, the wolves were brought in. They reduced elk numbers and, interestingly, altered their grazing patterns. Vegetation recovered and stabilized riverbanks and, incredibly, changed the course of various rivers in the park. The ecosystem saw a remarkable increase in biodiversity; species like beavers and various birds also thrived.

Seeya

Last week, we discussed how the solar eclipse was an example of how awe and wonder are good for us. It can help us become less materialistic, more ethical, grateful, creative, and positive, among other things.

Its the same with being in nature and witnessing wildlife. Get out there!

Thanks for reading The Meltdown. Please sign up, share, and keep looking up. Send tips to: charress@reckonmedia.com

See you next week.
Some of Taylor Swift's songs have been made available again on the Chinese-owned app TikTok after a fallout between the social media platform and Universal Music Group (UMG).

Variety first reported on the matter on Thursday (Apr. 12), saying that the exception was made just a week before the release of Swift's latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department."

However, it remained unclear what arrangement was made for her official music to return to the platform or how long it would remain there.

TikTok creator and Swiftie Madeline Macrae heard the news on Thursday morning and immediately started searching TikTok and Google to confirm the development.

"I'm really excited to have that catalog back, and I don't have to rely on sped-up versions or edited versions," as quoted by Wired. "I can just use her actual music."

According to Variety, some of the songs that were returned to the platform included "You Belong With Me," "Lover," "Cardigan," "Mirrorball," "Fearless (Taylor's Version)," "Cruel Summer," "Cardigan," "Style (Taylor's Version)," "Is It Over Now? (Taylor's Version)," "The Man," and "ME!"

In addition to being excited about using Swift's music in new TikTok videos, Macrae was also grateful for the pop megastar's music to be potentially unmuted for her past videos on TikTok.

"I was going back and forth on deleting them or keeping them, because they look kind of silly muted," she explained.

When UMG's music was initially pulled from TikTok's library in January, many creators were stunned to see their archive of past videos with certain songs go silent overnight.

The BBC reported that the exception was speculative because Swift owns the copyright to her music under the terms of a 2018 deal with Universal or because Swift reached a separate deal with TikTok, which was owned by the Chinese company Bytedance.

While it is uncertain if "The Tortured Poets Department" would be available to use for videos on TikTok, Macrae was hopeful it would be.

"I think this move also just shows the power of Taylor Swift," she added.

Most UMG artists have been absent from TikTok for nearly 10 weeks, greatly shifting the user experience on the social media platform and opening the door for non-UMG artists, like Beyonce, to go viral with TikTok's algorithm.

However, it remained a mystery when the long-standing contract dispute between TikTok and UMG would be resolved.

As one of the biggest record companies in the world, UMG's removal of songs from TikTok has impacted the careers of many established artists and rising stars.

Multiple artists expressed frustration about the move, often citing disrupted marketing plans or decreased audience reach.

A spokesperson for UMG did not immediately respond to reporters' request for comment.
Children's books boost Sino-Western cultural exchanges at int'l book fair

Xinhua) 10:54, April 12, 2024

BOLOGNA, Italy, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Original Chinese children's books have caught the attention of international visitors at the 61st Bologna Children's Book Fair this week.

More than 60 Chinese exhibitors hosted dozens of activities at the book fair, which ran until Thursday.

"Strong Chinese delegation among exhibitors and crowded booths on the first day of ever-increasing attendance," reported the Italian financial newspaper "Il Sole 24 Ore".

Spanish illustrator Tassies visited various Chinese booths, showing his hand-drawn and Chinese-published picture books. He had traveled from Barcelona to the exhibition to "find more friends like Chinese publisher partners" for his book.

"I think this year's book fair is especially interesting because there is a focus on China," Tassies said, adding that the children's book fair is a "great opportunity" for him to get to know the Chinese people and their culture.

This year, China was invited to be the "Market of Focus" for the first time in the history of the fair. More than 40 events hosted by Chinese publishers and book companies were held, with more than 2,500 books on display.

Audrey Lorenzini, an Italian publisher, was attracted by a series of three-dimensional children's picture books, and said she planned to buy the copyright. Lorenzini is very interested in Chinese culture and wants to bring it to the Italian and European markets, as she believes that Chinese classic stories could also appeal to Western children.

"I don't think Italians understand Chinese culture well, that's why I came here to look for books that can introduce Chinese history or Chinese culture," Lorenzini said.

At the showcase of Beijing Allied Fortune Times Group, a series of picture books named Let's Retrace The Silk Road attracted the attention of many exhibition-goers.

According to Zhang Shaofeng, general manager of the group, the book was produced by the company alongside UNESCO, and both the author and the illustrator are Italian. The book tells the story of the Silk Road from both Western and Eastern perspectives, and is very popular with foreign booksellers. The series is set to be translated into five languages.

Official statistics show that Chinese children's books have now entered more than 100 countries and regions. "To have cultural confidence needs good cultural carriers, high-quality children's books can better spread Chinese stories," said Zhang.

Elena Pasoli, exhibition manager of the Bologna Children's Book Fair, said at an event in the Chinese section that Chinese exhibitors have injected new vitality and creativity into the fair. "Our book fair has always been committed to promoting cultural exchanges and artistic exploration with China," she said.

Running from April 8 to 11, this year's Bologna Children's Book Fair attracted more than 1,500 exhibitors from nearly 100 countries and regions.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
There were famous people who married their cousins such as Edgar Allan Poe, Charles Darwin, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and more but if you are thinking of doing the same, better think again because a new study suggests that babies of these couples are at risk of being born with birth defects affecting the lungs or heart.

Eamon Sheridan of St. James's University Hospital in Leeds, UK, and his colleagues studied the birth defects of a Pakistani community in Bradford, England where consanguineous marriage, or marriage between blood relatives, is common.

They looked at the records of 11,000 babies born between 2007 and 2011. Among the population, three percent had birth defect. The birth defects they had identified were heart and lung defect, Down syndrome, and cleft palate.

The researchers were surprised with their conclusion because the percentage is higher than the British community. The occurrence of this condition in the white community is only 1.66 percent.

They also analyzed which among blood relative relationship is at high risk wherein they found out that 18 percent of the babies born were from parents who are first cousins. The frequency of first cousin marriages in the Pakistani community is also high at 38 percent.

The researchers did not make any recommendations to the Pakistani community due to social sensitivity and culture awareness even if they believe it should be addressed immediately.

This study proves that birth defects among babies are not just caused by smoking, alcohol drinking, and obesity during pregnancy. This opens another diagnostic question that medical experts should include on their interview; however, they have to ensure that they will not offend the patient if they do so.

The study was published on the July 4 issue of The Lancet.

Alan Bittles of the Centre for Comparative Genomics at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia commended Sheridans team for being bold enough to reveal this conclusion since other studies refused to recognize the cultural, religious, social and economic concerns related to consanguineous marriages.

"Sheridan and colleagues deserve major credit for their complex, time-consuming, and socially sensitive study," Bittles said in CBC.
Dr. Mudit Gilotra, center, assistant medical director of Healthcare for the Homeless - Houston, talks with Robert Tobar about his shoulder pain in January. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Dr. Mudit Gilotra, right, assistant medical director of Healthcare for the Homeless - Houston, talks with Larry Taylor Jr., about his health after he approached the medical outreach team in the drive through of a bank in January. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer A family medical examination room. People who are getting sick because they live in unhealthy homes and cannot access routine health care dont show up for work. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer A patient receives a free dental screening during UTHealth Houston's annual community health fair in the Eastex/Jensen neighborhood of Houston in 2023. Dwight C. Andrews/UTHealth Houston

Taxpayers have the right, a duty even, to demand that government officials spend the money they take from us wisely. Yet, when it comes to health care, we overlook one of the worlds most inefficient and wasteful systems.

The Episcopal Health Foundation, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas and St. Davids Foundation have a new report on how Texas inefficient system costs the economy $7 billion annually in avoidable costs. Worsening climate change will only exacerbate the financial impact, according to a separate report from the Center for Houstons Future.

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Every child knows an apple a day will keep the doctor away, yet the states politicians and health professionals still dont invest enough in preventing disease in low-income people. The result is $2.7 billion in excess medical spending for hospital care, doctor services and prescription drugs, the EHF study found.

People who are getting sick because they live in unhealthy homes and cannot access routine health care dont show up for work. That takes another $5 billion out of the economy due to lost productivity.

Other states minimize this economic impact by making health insurance available to low-income families. However, the Texas Legislature failed to expand Medicaid, the coverage plan for people in need, to include working people whose employers dont provide insurance. Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick have pledged to stop any effort to care for these low-income families with taxpayer money.

So, instead, we pay 12 times more to hospitals to care for these people in the emergency room rather than a primary care clinic after their health has severely deteriorated. The math doesnt make any sense, and the cruelty takes the cake.

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How much money you make or where you live shouldnt determine your health or economic future, but these numbers show thats the current reality in Texas, Dr. Ann Barnes, the CEO of EHF, said in a statement. The bottom line  if everyone in Texas had the same opportunities for good health as the healthiest among us, our economy could potentially save billions of dollars in unnecessary costs and lost work productivity.

But wait, it gets worse!

The Center for Houstons Future issued a report Wednesday examining the snowball effect of health care and climate change. Experts examined the expected impact of climate change, particularly extreme heat, wildfires, floods and hurricanes and how they will affect heatstroke, respiratory illnesses and vector-borne diseases.

Again, it is no surprise that low-income people and their families face the highest risks and the worst consequences. They tend to work physically-taxing jobs outdoors and live in sub-standard housing.

The risk of heat stroke is rising not only because of hotter temperatures but also because the Legislature took away the ability of local governments to mandate water breaks. The study found that low-income households are more likely to live in urban heat islands and typically experience temperatures 17 degrees higher in Houston, even at night, making them more susceptible to heat injuries.

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Mosquito-borne illness is also worsening across Texas as temperatures rise. Malaria once affected the entire state, and yellow fever ravaged coastal areas in past centuries. Our region is not immune to tropical diseases such as Zika, dengue, typhus, Chagas and hookworm as temperatures rise.

The health care system, by the way, is responsible for 8.5% of national greenhouse gas emissions.

We found that some health care leaders and professionals are actively tackling current and prospective challenges posed by climate change. However, others, for assorted reasons, have yet to dedicate significant resources or engage in public discourse on this issue, the study authors concluded. This mirrors a broader trend across many industries, where valuable work often occurs in silos.

The report recommends greater collaboration in developing strategies, protocols and innovations to prevent injuries and illnesses aggravated by climate change. Additional training is needed in medical schools, hospitals and health departments.

Health care professionals must also prepare for worsening natural disasters in emergency departments and emergency management offices.

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10 things to watch Friday, April 12 The market is looking lower Friday, one day after a strong rebound in stocks, especially tech. Bank earnings appear generally solid. The 10-year Treasury yield is lower, but oil is jumping on concerns about escalated tensions in the Middle East this weekend. Strong quarter JPMorgan $4.44 per share vs. $4.11. Better than expected revenues. Return on tangible common equity 21% vs. 20% expected. Non-interest expenses were less than expected. There is a 19-cent impact from a FDIC special assessment. The only issue was that it didn't raise its net interest income outlook for the year. The stock is lower. Good quarter from Club name Wells Fargo , too. The bank reports $1.26 in earnings per share vs. $1.11 expected. Repurchased $6.1 billion in shares and still has plenty of excess capital. There is a 6-cent impact from the FDIC special assessment. No raise to the net interest income outlook guide  lots of moving parts. Expense outlook unchanged, and 12.3% return on tangible common equity. The stock is relatively flat. Citigroup beats on both the top and bottom line. EPS $1.58 vs. $1.23, and 7.6% return on tangible common equity. No change to full year adjusted expense outlook. The stock is higher. A round of price target increases on Constellation Brands after its strong quarter and upside guide Thursday. BMO goes to $315 per share and Jefferies raises to $314. Following the release and conference call, we reiterated our buy-equivalent 1 rating on shares and raised our price target to $300 from $270. Shares of Advanced Micro Devices and Intel slide on a report that China has told its telecom carriers stop buying American chips for telecom systems by 2027. Arista Networks is doubled downgraded to sell at Rosenblatt on skepticism around its AI opportunity. Bold call on a stock you have not wanted to bet against. A couple more price target cuts on Tesla . Wells Fargo research analysts to $120 per share from $125 and Citi to $180 from $196. Wedbush's Dan Ives says robotaxi is "not the answer for now," and he'd rather see a low cost EV. JPMorgan research analysts lower Boeing price target to $210 per share from $230 following its Q1 delivery announcement but keeps its overweight buy-equivalent rating. BMO starts coverage on the Novo Nordisk shares with a buy-equivalent outperform rating and a $163 per share price target. BMO also raised Club name Eli Lilly target to $900 from $865. The analysts see good things ahead for both companies as early to the emerging GLP-1 diabetes and obesity treatment market. Sign up for my Top 10 Morning Thoughts on the Market email newsletter for free (See here for a full list of the stocks at Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.

10 things to watch Friday, April 12
President Joe Biden's administration is raising bonding requirements and royalty rates for oil and gas companies operating on federal lands, the first major overhaul of leasing rules since the late 1980s. Stephanie Scarbrough/Associated Press

WASHINGTON  The Bureau of Land Management is raising bonding requirements and royalty rates for oil and gas companies operating on federal lands, the first major overhaul of leasing rules since the late 1980s.

Under regulations finalized Friday, the minimum bond for oil and gas leases will be $150,000, up from $10,000, and minimum royalties on oil and gas production will increase to 16.7% from 12.5%, part of a Biden administration strategy to increase government revenues and deter oil companies from buying up oil leases and sitting on them as they wait for oil prices to rise.

These are the most significant reforms to the federal oil and gas leasing program in decades, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said. They will cut wasteful speculation, increase returns for the public and protect taxpayers from being saddled with the costs of environmental cleanups.

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Minimum bids on oil leases will also increase to $10 per acre from $2. And rental rates paid on those leases will step up over time, reaching $15 an acre after eight years.

The updated regulations have drawn pushback from oil and gas lobbyists, who maintain they will slow drilling on federal lands and shrink U.S. energy production. Federal lands accounted for 11% of U.S. oil production and 9% of natural gas production in 2022, according to BLM.

The regulatory environment has become so hostile to American oil and natural gas producers operating on federal land that its clear the Biden administration intends for 'multiple use' lands to only be used for conservation and recreation, said Dan Naatz, chief operating officer of the trade group Independent Petroleum Association of America.

The new oil and gas rules come as the Biden seeks to expand wind and solar energy generation on federal lands. BLM announced Thursday it was adjusting its rules to lower costs for renewable developers and speed up the permitting process, part of an effort to expand the more than 25 gigawatts of renewable projects already permitted.

That, along with the tougher standards for oil and gas companies, has drawn support from environmentalists, an interest group the Biden administration is increasingly courting ahead of Novembers election.

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Still, the higher costs placed on oil and gas companies fell short in addressing climate change for some environmentalists.
Semiconductors are a key focus in the technology trade war taking place between the U.S. and China.

Shares of Advanced Micro Devices and Intel dipped on Friday after The Wall Street Journal reported that China is ordering the country's largest telecommunications carriers to cease use of foreign chips.

Chinese officials issued the directive earlier this year for the telecom systems to replace non-Chinese core processors by 2027, the Journal reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The report said the mandate would impact AMD and Intel.

AMD closed down 4.2% at $163.28 while Intel fell 5.2% to $35.69.

Intel declined to comment on the report. AMD didn't respond to a request for comment.

China accounted for 27% of Intel's revenue in 2023, making it the company's biggest market. AMD generated 15% of sales from China, including Hong Kong, last year. Their reliance on China underscores the continued importance of the world's second-biggest economy despite U.S. regulations aimed at curbing chip exports to the country and China's efforts to be less dependent on foreign technology.

China set new guidelines in December to remove U.S. chips from government computers and servers, blocking processors from AMD and Intel, the Financial Times reported last month.

In October 2022, the U.S. instituted rules designed to limit China's access to advanced American chips, especially those critical to artificial intelligence technology. Late last year, the U.S. announced new restrictions to prevent the sale of more AI chips to China, seeking to close perceived loopholes in the previous order.

AMD failed to get U.S. approval for an AI chip it designed for China and will need to apply for an export license, Bloomberg reported last month.

Intel has reportedly survived a push by AMD to end its sale of hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of laptop chips to the U.S.-sanctioned Chinese telecom company Huawei.
US President Joe Biden makes a virtual address to the National Action Network Convention, in the South Court Auditorium of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, next to the White House in Washington, DC, on April 12, 2024.

President Joe Biden said Friday that he expects Iran will strike Israel soon, and reiterated that the U.S. would support and defend Israel if such an attack occurred.

At a White House event, when asked by reporters how imminent he thought an attack by Iran could be, Biden said that while he didn't want to discuss "secure information," his expectation was "sooner than later."

Asked what his message to Iran was, Biden said, "Don't."

"We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel, we will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he said.

Earlier in the day, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters that U.S. officials are in "constant communication" with their Israeli counterparts "about making sure that they can defend themselves against those kinds of attacks."

"We do believe that this still is a viable threat," Kirby said. "We're doing everything we can to make sure that Israel can defend itself."

Iranian officials, including the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have vowed to retaliate against Israel over the attack on its consulate in Damascus.

In response, Israel has threatened to launch a direct strike on Iran if it comes under attack.

NBC News reported last week that an Iranian attack on Israel could focus on military or intelligence targets, rather than civilians, two U.S. officials said. The officials also said the Biden administration had started considering options for how to respond to various possible retaliatory moves by Iran.

Iran accused Israel of striking its consulate in Damascus on April 1. Israeli officials have said that it was a building disguised as a diplomatic mission, and that it's used by Iran's Quds force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
U.S. President Joe Biden holds a trilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (R) and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos (L) at the White House on April 11, 2024 in Washington, DC. Leaders from the three nations are meeting in a first-ever trilateral summit in a show of solidarity as China's assertiveness in the South China Sea has raised tensions in the region. Andrew Harnik | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Long-simmering tensions between China and its neighbors took center stage on Thursday as leaders of the U.S., Japan and the Philippines gathered at the White House to push back on Beijing's stepped-up pressure on Manila in the disputed South China Sea. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration is expected to announce new joint military efforts and infrastructure spending in the former American colony while he hosts Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. alongside Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington for a first-of-its-kind trilateral summit. Topping the meeting's agenda is China's increasing pressure in the South China Sea, which has escalated despite a personal appeal by Biden to Chinese President Xi Jinping last year. The Philippines and China had several maritime run-ins last month that included the use of water cannons and heated verbal exchanges. The disputes center on the Second Thomas Shoal, home to a small number of Filipino troops stationed on a warship that Manila grounded there in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims.

watch now

Launching the White House meeting with the three leaders, Biden affirmed that a 1950s era mutual defense treaty binding Washington and Manila would require the U.S. to respond to an armed attack on the Philippines in the South China Sea. "United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are iron clad," he said. Marcos has successfully pushed Washington to resolve longstanding ambiguity over the treaty by specifying that it would apply to disputes in that sea. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including the maritime economic zones of neighboring nations. The Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines' 200-mile (320-km) exclusive economic zone. A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found that China's sweeping claims have no legal basis. Japan has a dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said "China's activities in the East China Sea and South China Sea fully comply with international law" and that they were prepared to resolve issues through "dialogue and consultation" but criticized both the U.S. and Japan for ratcheting up tensions.
Cathie Wood's Ark Invest has taken a stake in OpenAI, the popular artificial intelligence player that's behind ChatGPT. In a Thursday email to clients, the St. Petersburg, Florida-based asset manager said her ARK Venture Fund has invested in OpenAI as of Wednesday. "OpenAI is at the forefront of a Cambrian explosion in artificial intelligence capability, having produced several of the most influential breakthroughs in foundational AI research, including both the GPT and DALLE series of models, and launching the first major consumer application of generative AI, ChatGPT, which is the fastest application in history to grow to 100 million active users," Ark said in the email. Wood's firm launched the venture fund in September 2022, giving small investors access to the venture capital market with as little as $500 . The fund has invested in more than 40 companies, including SpaceX, Discord and Epic Games. She previously said OpenAI's ChatGPT has the so-called data advantage, which she thinks is the "secret sauce." Wood added that the chatbot is able to produce convincing content because it's scraping the entire history of the internet and answering questions based on that history. The widely followed Wood has been a big AI bull, saying it's the most important catalyst in every corner of her disruptive innovation strategy. She has called Tesla, with its robotaxi ambition, " the biggest AI opportunity in the world. " Wood has also spoken highly of DeepMind, an AI intelligence research lab acquired by Google in 2014, calling it "one of the best AI companies in the world."
Epic Systems, the largest provider of software for managing medical records, says a venture-backed startup called Particle Health is using patient data in unauthorized and unethical ways that have nothing to do with treatment.

Epic told customers in a notice on Thursday that it cut off its connection to Particle, hindering the company's ability to tap a system with more than 300 million patient records. Particle is one of several companies that acts as a sort of middleman between Epic and the organizations  typically hospitals and clinics  that need the data.

Patient data is inherently sensitive and valuable, and it's protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, a federal law that requires a patient's consent or knowledge for third-party access. One way Epic's electronic health records (EHR) are accessed is through an interoperability network called Carequality, which facilitates the exchange of more than 400 million documents a month, according to its website. Particle is a member of the Carequality network.

To join the network, organizations are vetted and have to agree to abide by clear "Permitted Purposes" for the exchange of patient data. Epic responds to requests for data that fall under the "Treatment" permitted purpose, which means the recipient is providing care to the person whose records they are requesting.

Epic said in its notice on Thursday that it filed a formal dispute with Carequality on March 21, over concerns that Particle and its participant organizations "might be inaccurately representing the purpose associated with their record retrievals." The company suspended its connection with Particle that day.

"This poses potential security and privacy risks, including the potential for HIPAA Privacy Rule violations," Epic said in the notice, which was obtained by CNBC.

In a blog post late Friday, Carequality said it takes disputes "very seriously and is committed to maintaining the integrity of the dispute resolution process as well as trusted exchange within the framework." The organization said it can't comment about the existence of any disputes or member activities.

Representatives from Epic and Particle didn't respond to requests for comment. However, Particle published a blog post Friday evening and said it began "addressing this issue immediately" after Epic "stopped responding to data requests from a subset of customers" on March 21. Particle said in the post that a big challenge in such matters is that there is "no standard reference to assess the definition of Treatment."

"These definitions have become more difficult to delineate as care becomes more complicated with providers, payers, and payviders all merging in various large healthcare conglomerates," Particle wrote.

Particle also said that it's been in conversations with Epic and has "made significant progress towards resolving this connectivity, with some customers already turned back on." For other customers that aren't facing complaints, "we are actively collaborating with Epic" to get them back online, Particle said.

Epic, a 45-year-old privately held company based in Wisconsin, is the largest EHR vendor by hospital market share in the U.S., with 36% of the market, according to a May report from KLAS Research. Oracle is second at 25%, following the software company's $28 billion purchase of Cerner in 2022.
The pan-European Stoxx 600 closed up 0.06%, paring gains from earlier in the session, with most sectors and major bourses in negative territory.

European markets closed slightly higher on Friday as investors digested U.K. economic data and reflected on a somewhat murky U.S. inflation outlook.

The market moves come at the end of a choppy week for the Stoxx index.

On the data front, Britain's economic output increased by 0.1% in monthly terms in February, in line with expectations, according to figures published Friday by the Office for National Statistics. It provided another sign of a return to sluggish economic growth this year.

The European Central Bank on Thursday held interest rates steady for a fifth consecutive meeting and gave its clearest signal yet of an upcoming rate cut despite uncertainty over the U.S. Federal Reserve's next moves.

Stateside, investors digested fresh inflation data in search of clues on exactly when the U.S. central bank may start cutting interest rates.

The producer price index, which tracks prices on a wholesale level, came in lower than expected in March, according to a release Thursday. It provided some potential relief for investors hoping for the start of Fed policy easing, although the data came just one day after a hotter-than-expected March consumer inflation report.
Shares of Globe Life rebounded 20% Friday after sinking 53% Thursday following a short seller report alleging multiple instances of insurance fraud.

Fuzzy Panda Research disclosed a short position in the Texas-based insurance company after it uncovered "extensive allegations of insurance fraud ignored by management despite being obvious and reported hundreds of times."

The short seller claims Globe Life had insurance policies written for fictitious and deceased individuals, forged signatures and had funds withdrawn from bank accounts without customer approval. It also alleges that fictitious bank accounts were used to fund fake insurance policies so employees met their bonuses.

In a statement Thursday, Globe Life refuted the allegations and said it is "driven solely by short-term profit."

"We reviewed the report and found it to be wildly misleading, mixing anonymous allegations with recycled points pushed by plaintiff law firms to coerce Globe Life into settlements," the company said.

CNBC could not independently verify the report's allegations.

Globe Life specializes in life and supplemental health insurance for the middle-income market. It has more than 17 million policies in force, according to the company.
Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant speaks during a joint press conference with U.S. secretary of defence, in Tel Aviv. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said on Thursday that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran.

"A direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, according to remarks issued by his office.

The Pentagon said the two discussed the United States' "iron-clad" commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and its proxies.

"Echoing President Biden's unequivocal message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened," the Pentagon said.

It added that a visit by the top U.S. general for the Middle East, Army General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, to Israel had been moved up so he could meet with Israeli military leadership and discuss "current security threats." Kurilla has been travelling to Israel regularly in recent months.
Overnight attacks by Russia on Ukraine damaged infrastructure and private homes, regional officials from several regions across Ukraine said Friday. The Ukrainian army said on Telegram that 16 of the 17 drones Russia used in nighttime attacks had been destroyed.

That follows Thursday's widespread attacks on energy infrastructure in Ukraine that left over 200,000 people without electricity.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities said on Telegram that five Ukrainian drones had been destroyed overnight in southern Russia.

In other news, water levels of the Ural river continued to rise in some parts of Russia, with a mass evacuation taking place in the city of Orenburg as water levels topped 11 meters. Orenburg's mayor said on Telegram that the situation was "extremely dangerous" and "critical."

However, in other towns that have been hit hard by the flood, including Orsk, which was initially one of the most affected areas, water levels fell overnight.
Iranians attend a funeral procession in Tehran, held for seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members killed in a strike in Syria.

Western diplomats have mounted pressure on China to prevent Iran from escalating tensions in the Middle East with a direct retaliatory strike against Israel.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier this week spoke with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other counterparts in Turkey and Saudi Arabia amid rising fears of retaliation by Tehran against Israel.

Blinken asked the foreign ministers to "make clear that escalation is not in anyone's interest, and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate," U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Thursday.

"We have also engaged with European allies and partners over the past few days and urged them as well to send a clear message to Iran that escalation is not in Iran's interest, it's not in the region's interest, and it's not in the world's interest."

Germany, whose Chancellor Olaf Scholz is visiting China next week, has also been in contact with Beijing over the issue of Iran, where China has influence, according to a Reuters report Friday citing German officials.

U.S. and European officials are treading a fine line with China, denouncing the country as a trade risk while also urging it to use its considerable diplomatic sway with countries isolated by Western sanctions.

Beijing is a critical trade partner of Russia and Iran as one of the last recipients of their oil exports. The three countries are also members of the China-led BRICS coalition of emerging markets.
The trendiest salad appearing across social media lately doesnt feature foraged ingredients from some lifestyle bloggers backyard, an electric green goddess dressing claiming to be healthy or a quick recipe calling for two dozen ingredients.

Its a chopped salad. A very chopped salad. Then its stuffed into a sandwich.

Bread Zeppelin, a fast-casual restaurant specializing in hollowed-out baguettes filled with various chopped salads, is one Houston restaurant benefiting from this TikTok trend, with millions of views on the platform. This seemingly mundane viral moment features countless videos of people cobbling together a bunch of ingredients on a cutting board and sometimes using cleavers or two knives to obliterate the salad ingredients. Its not only in baguettes but hoagies, loaves of ciabatta and even bagels.

HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants

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Matt West prepares a salad at Bread Zeppelin

I kept seeing food accounts on TikTok showing this salad like it was an ad, said Aliza Runer, who was grabbing lunch at Bread Zeppelin on a recent afternoon. Its fun, but mostly its easier to eat.

Bread Zeppelin started in Dallas  where there are currently seven locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex  before franchising in Houston in 2021. The original location in Spring is no longer open, but there is one in the Greenway Plaza area, at 3235 Southwest Freeway, tucked inside a strip center.

The restaurants lunch business has been steady since debuting last year, but the recent popularity of the chopped salad craze has also helped raise Bread Zeppelins profile, said Matt West, director of brand development at Avalanche Food Group, which is the franchisee.

Back in October, the salad chains local Instagram following was under 400 followers, but a video clip garnering more than 1 million views grew the restaurants account by thousands over the next two months, according to Sherrie Handrinos, a spokesperson for the Houston Bread Zeppelin.

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Since January, the restaurant has seen interaction increase by 24% on Instagram, she added.

I believe this truly happened  and trends continue to happen  because people eat with their eyes, Handrinos said. When they see something that looks amazing, its natural for us to want to try it.

The allure of the chopped salad on TikTok can stem from watching someone shredding the ingredients, but for others, theres an ick factor, with some on social media describing the salad as having a pre-chewed factor or simply wondering why its necessary to even present a salad like its baby food.

MORE FROM BAO ONG: L.A.'s TikTok famous Nashville-style hot chicken chain Red Chickz opening in Cypress

Bread Zeppelin serves salads in bowls or baguettes.

Bread Zeppelin has about a dozen different salads on its menu, including special flavors, .

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Theres a wall that looks like a greenhouse filled with different leafy greens like romaine, iceberg, spinach, kale and arugula. Customers can choose their salad and add on ingredients like crispy chickpeas, artichokes, corn, beets or olives along with proteins like chicken or tofu.

Each order can be served in a bowl or a baguette, known as a Zeppelin, a pun from the brands original founders who loved the rock band Led Zeppelin.

To prepare a Zeppelin, West explains, the tip of an 8-inch baguette is cut off and tongs are used to remove the core (those parts are used for croutons and bread pudding). It then goes through a 500 degree oven that moves like a conveyor belt for one minute and 20 seconds.

Customers can pick one of 16 different dressings for their salad before its stuffed into the baguette, which are made locally at Bread Man Baking Co.

You get each ingredient in a single bite, West said. Its our way of elevating salads.

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Bread Zeppelin is located in Houston's Greenway Plaza area.

The boom of salad chains in recent years has targeted customers wanting to eat healthier while looking for quick options. In Houston alone, there are at least a half dozen chains from athleisure crowd favorite Sweetgreen to the drive-thru friendly Salad and Go.

Runer, a 22-year-old University of Houston student, ordered a Southwest Zeppelin  the brands top seller with a mix of avocado, tomatoes, corn, black beans, cotija cheese and romaine  because she wanted a taste of the TikTok trend.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) hold a press conference at Mr. Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate on April 12, 2024, in Palm Beach, Florida.

Donald Trump said Friday that he would testify under oath in his criminal hush money trial, which is set to begin in New York on Monday.

"All I can do is tell the truth," said Trump, who is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records, "and the truth is that there's no case."

The presumptive Republican presidential nominee spoke at a press conference with House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., at Trump's Florida resort home Mar-a-Lago.

The trial  the first ever against a former president  centers on a hush money payment in late 2016 to porn star Stormy Daniels, who says she had an extramarital affair with Trump years earlier.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg accuses Trump of facilitating that payment and others to unlawfully hide information from voters ahead of the 2016 presidential election, which Trump would go on to win.

Trump is expected to be in court throughout the trial, which could last over six weeks.

Asked at Mar-a-Lago what he will be looking for when the jury selection process begins Monday, Trump said, "Jury selection is largely luck. It depends who you get."

He went on to once again attack the presiding judge, Juan Merchan, accusing him of having a conflict of interest that requires his recusal from the case.
Boxes of Wegovy made by Novo Nordisk are seen at a pharmacy in London, Britain March 8, 2024.

European Union drug regulators found no evidence that highly popular weight loss and diabetes drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic are linked to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and self-injury, the regulator said Friday.

The European Medicines Agency conducted a nine-month investigation into so-called GLP-1s, a blockbuster class of treatments that mimic a hormone produced in the gut to suppress a person's appetite. Those drugs have skyrocketed in demand over the last year despite their hefty price tags and spotty insurance coverage.

The review examined several drugs from Novo Nordisk , including Wegovy and Ozempic. It did not include Eli Lilly 's Zepbound and Mounjaro, two versions of the same drug sold for weight loss and diabetes. But the probe did include the active ingredient in an older diabetes treatment from Eli Lilly called Trulicity.

In a statement to CNBC, Novo Nordisk confirmed the findings of the EMA's investigation and said it will continue to monitor reports of adverse reactions to its GLP-1s, including suicide and suicidal ideation.

The agency's verdict is the latest in a series of reassuring reports on suicide risk for GLP-1s. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration came to a similar conclusion in January but said agency officials couldn't definitively rule out that a "small risk may exist."

Clinical trials from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have not demonstrated a link between GLP-1s and suicidal thoughts. Still, researchers and doctors have been on the lookout for any new unwanted side effects or added risks as thousands of new patients start taking the drugs.

The EMA first launched its investigation in July after the Icelandic Medicines Agency flagged three cases of suicidal thoughts and self-injury in patients taking drugs containing liraglutide and semaglutide, the active ingredients in the popular treatments.

Semaglutide is the active ingredient used in Wegovy, Ozempic and Novo Nordisk's diabetes pill Rybelsus. Liraglutide is the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's older weight loss drug Saxenda. The probe also included other active ingredients in older weight loss and diabetes drugs, including dulaglutide, exenatide and lixisenatide.

The EMA on Friday said it analyzed results from a large U.S. study and did not find a direct association between the use of semaglutide and suicidal thoughts. Results from another study conducted by the agency also did not support a link between GLP-1 drugs and the risk of suicidal thoughts.

Both the studies were based on electronic health records.

If you are having suicidal thoughts or are in distress, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the U.S. or the Samaritans in the U.K. at 116 123 for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
In a bid to soothe the vexed nerves of industry and tax planners, the government late in the Friday evening, April 12, confirmed CNBC-TV18's NEWSBREAK in an X post, saying that the concerns raised around India Mauritius DTAA amendment are premature, and that the Protocol associated with the amendment is yet to be ratified and notified."Some concerns have been raised on the India Mauritius DTAA amended recently. In this context, it is clarified that the concerns /queries are premature at the moment since the Protocol is yet to be ratified and notified u/s 90 of the Income-tax Act, 1961. As and when the Protocol comes into force, queries, if any, will be addressed, wherever necessary," the Income Tax Department said in an X post.Sources during the day had shared with CNBCTV18 that the bilateral agreement signed between India and Mauritius is to give effect to BEPS anti-treaty abuse provisions outlined in the multilateral instrument. Importantly, they emphasised that the taxability resulting from this amendment is not retrospective and the government once notifies the amendments, if required, will issue necessary clarification on issues raised by experts."It is understood that new provisions will apply to even past investments where the taxable event occurs post coming into effect of the protocol. It is normally understood that the taxability is only post the date of the treaty coming into effect even where the investments have been made at an earlier date; thus it is not retrospective. Now each country will do internal procedure to make this protocol come into effect at each country level. Then India will inform Mauritius and notify the protocol to make it applicable," sources added.Considering that taxability is not retrospective, it is only post the date of treaty, sources further shared that the "government is yet to issue a detailed notification to make this amendment in the treaty come into action."To put it simply, the confusion is because the Amendment is silent on treatment of transactions before April 2017 that were grandfathered. So to this sources say, "the government is cognizant of the queries that are being raised. But important to note is that the protocol is yet to be ratified and notified. Thus, When Protocol comes into force, as an when the notification is made, clarification addressing these queries will be issued by the government."Thus, sources say, "the government will soothe the nerves before the notification is issued so that there is absolute clarity."The entire issue came to the fore since, India has signed a protocol amending the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with Mauritius to ensure that there is no tax leakage.As per the amendment, a Principal Purpose Test (PPT) has been included in the treaty, which implies that tax benefits under the treaty will not be applicable if it is established that obtaining that duty benefit was the principal purpose of any transaction or arrangement.The amendment to the India-Mauritius treaty was signed on March 7 at Port Louis and was made public on Wednesday."Interestingly, while the impact will be for from the effective date of the treaty, the investments made prior to the effective date will have to bear the brunt, thereby leading to the retroactive application. While one may argue that the effect is not retrospective, there is certainly retroactive applicability that will have to cross the test of constitutional validity," explained Abhishek A Rastogi, founder of Rastogi Chambers.The recent Protocol to the India-Mauritius DTAA, which incorporates the Principal Purpose Test (PPT), represents a move by India to align with global efforts against treaty abuse, particularly under the BEPS Action 6 framework, Rakesh Nangia ,Chairman, Nangia Andersen India said."The introduction of the PPT aims to curtail tax avoidance by ensuring that treaty benefits are only granted for transactions with a bona fide purpose. However, the application of the PPT to grandfathered investments remains ambiguous, highlighting the need for explicit guidance from the CBDT. Furthermore, the omission of the phrase "for the encouragement of mutual trade and investment" in the treaty's preamble suggests a shift in focus towards preventing tax evasion over promoting bilateral investment flows. This development underscores India's commitment to international tax cooperation standards while raising critical considerations for investors leveraging the India-Mauritius corridor."Given the potential implications for investors, it's essential to monitor for any official announcements or clarifications from the CBDT on this matter. Tax professionals and investors will need to carefully analyse the amended DTAA's text and any guidance issued by the Indian government to understand the full impact of these changes on their investments and tax planning strategies, Nangia added.Rohinton Sidhwa, Partner, Deloitte India said, "The text of a protocol signed between India and Mauritius on 7 March has just been released. The protocol incorporates a Principal Purpose Test (PPT) as was expected and also amends the objects clause of the Treaty. This is on expected lines and it will now enable Mauritius to also notify the treaty as a CTA. India has already done so. The protocol come into effect based on the dates it is notified to enter into force by the respective Governments. Logically this will mean the changes will come into effect for period beginning from 1 April 2025 for India.""With the introduction of the principal purpose test under the India -Mauritius tax treaty, the treaty now meets the minimum BEPS standard to tackle treaty abuse. With the new substance requirements, investors are now preferring to invest through jurisdictions where they have a business ecosystem in place to substantiate their treaty claims," said Gouri Puri, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.
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Mauritius, once a preferred jurisdiction for engaging investments in India, due to a host of tax benefits, is gradually slipping away from the top source nations. The island country occupied the top spot with a 27.5% contribution to the total assets under custody (AUC) in 2012.From the numero uno position, Mauritius has seen its ranking coming down to the current level. Currently, Mauritius is the fourth largest source of FPI investments, after the US, Singapore, and Luxembourg, shows data sourced from the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL).As of March 2024, foreign investments through both equity and debt from Mauritius stood at4.2 lakh crore, representing 6% of the total foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) assets. The ratio, which stood at 21.4% in March 2014, has been dwindling over the last ten years, and further slipped to a single digit during 2022, according to NSDL data.While FPI investments from the US contributed 39.2% to the total foreign assets, Singapore had a share of close to 10% at the end of March 2024.Market participants are of the view that changes to tax treaties and increased scrutiny by regulators have led FPIs operating out of tax-friendly nations to re-evaluate their strategy. Moreover, changes to the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Mauritius in 2016, implementation of GAAR from April 2017, and ratification of a treaty to prevent base erosion and profit shifting by India have all made the Mauritius route undesirable.With both nations signing a protocol to amend the DTAA, there could be further changes in the pecking order. The agreement includes a principal purpose test (PPT) to decide whether a foreign investor is eligible to claim treaty benefits.Pranav Sayta, Partner and National Leader of the International Tax & Transaction Services practice at EY India argued that tax benefits for foreign investors on dividends will be subject to PPT after the current amendment.Currently, dividend tax stands at 5% for those entities registered in Mauritius. "Don't think government's intention will be to apply amendments retrospectively," added Sayta.
US President Joe Biden said he was committed to deepening maritime and security ties with Japan and the Philippines as he sought to assure allies worried about increasingly assertive Chinese actions in disputed waters.The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, Biden said Thursday before a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House for the first trilateral summit among the nations.Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty, Biden added.The Philippines under Marcos has adopted a more assertive footing to the growing number of Chinese patrols in the South China Sea, where both nations have competing maritime claims. Tensions are centered around the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a grounded World War-II era ship. Chinese vessels have used water cannons to block Philippine military missions that rotate and resupply troops on the ship.The leaders agreed to step-up military exercises, including plans for Philippine and Japanese Coast Guard members to patrol aboard a US Coast Guard vessel in the Indo-Pacific, according to a statement released Thursday evening. The nations also plan to conduct more training exercises at sea.Maritime security topped the summit agenda following a series of incidents, including Chinese Coast Guard ships firing water cannons last month at a civilian Filipino boat. The three countries joined Australia on Sunday for military drills in the South China Sea.We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries offshore resource exploitation, the three leaders said in the joint statement.At the White House earlier, Kishida said that as the world faces a complex crisis, it is important that we work in a multi-layered effort with like-minded countries and allies to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law.Biden and Kishida have striven to demonstrate unity with the Philippines, part of a broader US strategy to bolster partnerships in the Indo-Pacific and encourage allies to strengthen their own ties amid growing alarm over Chinas military and economic influence. A joint statement issued after Biden met Kishida at the White House on Wednesday for bilateral talks mentioned China repeatedly.The US sees China increasing the use of coercive tactics and a growing number of countries pushing back, according to senior administration officials who briefed reporters Wednesday before the official announcements.Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the sea confrontations on a phone call last week and reiterated their respective positions, and the Chinese understand that the timing of Thursdays meeting is keyed to those recent incidents, a senior administration official said in an interview earlier this week.
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Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday.
Julian Gill is an investigative reporter for the Houston Chronicle.

His wide-ranging work on the medical beat, including a three-part narrative on a COVID-19 lung transplant patient, was recognized at the 2022 Texas Managing Editors awards, where he received top honors in the specialty reporting category and second place in the star reporter of the year category.

In addition to his extensive reporting on COVID, he has written about the effects of the Texas abortion ban, the maternal mortality crisis, and advances in the Texas Medical Center.

He joined the paper in 2018 after two years at the Denton Record-Chronicle, where he covered police and county government. He graduated from the University of North Texas. A San Antonio native, he is a die-hard Spurs fan and avid runner.
Central Crossing High School was named a recipient of the prestigious Purple Star School designation. The Purple Star designation, from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nations military.

At the center of Central Crossing High Schools military-connected programming is the Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) under the direction of Senior Chief Lance Brownfield (Senior Naval Science Instructor) and Master Sergeant Benjamin Woods (Naval Science Instructor). Throughout the school year, Comet cadets support and host a number of engagement events dedicated to the essential program values of honor, courage, and commitment in building a foundation of trust and leadership within their school and community.

We are incredibly fortunate to have an amazing staff at Central Crossing High School that continuously finds new ways to support students, families, and community members in the United States Armed Forces, said Principal Steve Fairs. Senior Chief Brownfield and Master Sergeant Woods have a huge role in that effort through their NJROTC programming and values and that has spilled over into the rest of our school where there is a tangible sense of pride in supporting the military community. Our Comets should be incredibly proud of this distinction and we look forward to finding new ways to engage military-connected families in our school, community, and beyond in the years to come.

To qualify for the Purple Star designation, schools choose a school-based staff person to serve as a liaison between military families and the school. These liaisons complete professional development, identify military-connected students, and facilitate supports throughout the school community for identified students and families. Purple Star schools also participate in at least one supportive activity each year.

The Purple Star Class of 2024 includes schools that host monthly military kids club meetings, provide professional learning for all educators on the unique considerations of military-connected students, implement peer-to-peer transition programs, or host school-wide celebrations honoring military students and families.

According to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen Dackin, 171 Ohio schools are receiving the Purple Star designation as members of the Purple Star Class of 2024.

Ohio is a leader in its support to military families and the Purple Star program is a wonderful example of how this support extends to children in our schools, said DeWine. I applaud Ohios Purple Star schools and thank them for supporting military-connected students and ensuring they have the services and learning resources to succeed.

Congratulations to this years class of Ohio Purple Star schools for supporting student success, strengthening school-family partnerships, and recognizing the sacrifice of military service members and their families, said Dackin. It is wonderful to see the meaningful ways Ohios learning communities are showcasing their commitment to military families.

A Purple Star school receives the designation for three years, after which the school can apply for renewal of the designation. Applications for the next class of Purple Star schools will open in November.
Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer A medical helicopter leaves the roof of one of the Memorial Hermann hospital buildings n the Texas Medical Center complex Friday, Jul. 3, 2020 in Houston, TX. Michael Wyke / Contributor The building facade of one of the Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza locations along Fannin St. in the Texas Medical Center district Thursday, July. 23, 2020 in Houston, TX. Michael Wyke / Contributor Memorial Hermann renamed its Heart & Vascular Institute to honor the late real estate developer Larry D. Johnson after receiving a $10 million donation. Courtesy Memorial Hermann Memorial Hermann Health System notified Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas that it intends to leave the insurers networks March of next year, the insurer said Monday. Michael Wyke / Contributor Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Buildings associated with Memorial Hermann Hospital and medical complex are visible Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Medical Center district of Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

Memorial Hermann said April 11 that it found evidence that a doctor manipulated records for liver transplant candidates, potentially preventing some of them from receiving the lifesaving care they needed.

The revelation came six days after the health system inactivated its liver transplant program and two days after it halted kidney transplants. Both stoppages were due to "a pattern of irregularities" with liver donor acceptance criteria, Memorial Hermann said at the time.

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Memorial Hermann declined to identify the doctor. The New York Times reported he is Dr. J. Steve Bynon, a prominent surgeon who took over the hospitals abdominal transplant program, which includes kidney and liver operations, in 2011.

Bynon and his attorney have not responded to repeated requests for comment. In response to recent legal actions filed by his former patients, Bynon has said in court documents that media coverage and the plaintiffs description of his practices are misleading and insulting.

Here is what you need to know.

Why did Memorial Hermann inactivate the transplant programs?

Memorial Hermann declined to provide more detail on the "irregularities" that led to operations being halted, but the hospital said in a statement that they were limited to the liver transplant program. The hospital decided to stop performing kidney transplants because both programs share the same leadership structure, the statement said.

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The statement added that Memorial Hermann would evaluate a new physician leadership structure while the programs are inactive. Memorial Hermann spokesperson Jennifer Ginther said in an email May 3 that Bynon is no longer serving as director of the abdominal transplant program at the hospital.

What happened with Memorial Hermanns transplant records?

Hospital officials said an investigation found problems with how information, including patients' ages and weights, was entered into a database that matches patients with donor organs.

The hospital said the inappropriate changes effectively inactivated the candidates on the liver transplant waiting list. Subsequently, these patients did not/were not able to receive organ donation offers while inactive.

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Memorial Hermann has seen an increasing number of its liver transplant candidates die on the waiting list or become too sick for a transplant in recent years, according to data from the Organ Procurement Transplantation Network. Four patients died or became too sick for a transplant in 2021, followed by 11 in 2022, 14 in 2023 and five in 2024.

Where is the investigation currently into Memorial Hermann organ transplant irregularities?

Multiple federal agencies, including the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Health Resources and Services Administration, are investigating, a statement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said.

Memorial Hermann said on April 12 that its own investigation is ongoing, and the hospital is continuing to cooperate with all regulatory authorities. The Chronicle has reached out to HHS for additional comment on the status of the investigation being conducted by federal agencies.

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What do experts say about the controversy?

Experts told the Chronicle have been rare instances where doctors or hospitals have been accused of malfeasance in connection with the organ transplant process. But none could remember another time when the alleged conduct may have prevented a patient from receiving a lifesaving organ transplant.

In 2010, the former director of the liver transplant program at St. Vincent Medical Center in Los Angeles was indicted on charges that accused him of lying to cover up the fact that an organ intended for one patient had instead gone to another. According to the Los Angeles Times, a federal jury acquitted him on all charges after a trial.

EXPERTS ON MEMORIAL HERMANN: With Memorial Hermann under scrutiny, experts say malfeasance in organ transplant programs is rare

There also have been instances where transplant centers have been accused of giving preferential treatment to certain patients though they did not lead to any criminal charges against the doctors or hospitals involved. One notable example is New York Yankees legend Mickey Mantle, who was the recipient of a liver transplant just one day after he announced he needed one in 1995.

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Who is Dr. J. Steve Bynon?

Bynon, a longtime transplant surgeon who has performed more than 800 liver transplants during his career, joined Memorial Hermann in 2011. He is formally employed by The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and held a dual position as chief of abdominal transplantation at the university and Memorial Hermann.

He earned $810,000 in base salary and other compensation as of 2023-23, according to documents in his personnel file, which the Chronicle obtained through an open records request.

He initiated the pediatric liver transplant program at the University of Alabama in 1993 and was named director of the liver and pediatric transplant programs there the following year, according to his biography on the Memorial Hermann website.

UTHealth Houston released a statement defending Bynon on April 12, saying his survival rates and surgical outcomes are among the best in the nation, even while treating patients with higher-than-average acuity and disease complexity."

MORE ON BYNON: UTHealth Houston defends physician accused of manipulating transplant database

Dr. Steve Bynon is an exceptionally talented and caring physician, and a pioneer in abdominal organ transplantation," UTHealth Houston said in the statement.

Bynon has appeared on UTHealth billboard advertisements, which say he "gives new life to transplant patients."

What do Bynon's performance reviews say about his tenure at Memorial Hermann?

Bynon several years ago expressed disappointment over his inability to improve the abdominal transplant division he oversaw and more recently warned of major threats to the program, according to his personnel file from UTHealth Houston.

Personally and professionally I have been disappointed that I have not been able to effect a positive change for the abdominal transplant programs, Bynon wrote in a performance review in 2017-18. In 2023, Bynon would go on to tout transplant survival rates while warning of major threats to the clinical transplant program  especially renal transplantation, according to another performance review.

The documents, which the Chronicle obtained through an open records request, portray Bynon as a high-performing surgeon struggling to reach his personal goals. Upon his hiring, he quickly earned recognition from his colleagues and consistently received favorable reviews as a superb surgeon from the universitys surgery department chair, a position then occupied by Dr. Richard Andrassy.

How many organ transplants does Memorial Hermann perform?

Memorial Hermanns liver transplant program is relatively small; federal data shows the hospital performed 30 liver transplants last year and had 38 liver candidates on its waiting list when it inactivated the program.

Its kidney transplant program is significantly larger, with 132 kidney transplants performed last year, according to federal data. According to a statement from the hospital on April 11, there are 346 patients on the waiting list.

Memorial Hermann also performed four heart transplants and two lung transplants last year, according to data from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network.

What does data show about liver and kidney transplants at Memorial Hermann?

A Houston Chronicle analysis of transplant data found that Memorial Hermann had been underperforming in some areas before the recent scandal.

The data, published by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, shows that Memorial Hermanns liver transplant volume had been declining since at least 2015 and, more recently, dropped lower than would be expected of a program with a similar patient population.

MORE ON THE DATA: Memorial Hermann liver transplants were falling, waitlist deaths rising before scandal, data shows

The analysis also found that the hospitals estimated pre-transplant death rate rose sharply and reached a level that was higher than expected for the first time since at least 2015. Memorial Hermanns liver program, one of the smallest in the state, tallied nine waitlist deaths last year, the most since 2006, according to federal data.

When could liver and kidney transplants resume at Memorial Hermann?

Memorial Hermann said on April 12 that it is working toward a quick reactivation of its kidney transplant programs, though it did not specify when operations could resume. It has not provided an update on liver transplants.

In the statement April 12, Memorial Hermann said it has been working with affected patients, families and caregivers since it inactivated both programs. Transplant care coordinators are contacting each patient to review ongoing care options, including a transition to another transplant program where necessary.

Memorial Hermann said in a statement April 19 that all 38 of the liver transplant candidates that were on the hospital's waitlist were being transitioned to other hospitals, and that it had expedited the process for those most in need of a transplant. Most of the kidney transplant candidates opted to remain on the waiting list at Memorial Hermann, the statement added.

What other options exist for patients on the waiting lists?

Candidates on the waiting list do not receive organ offers while a transplant program is inactive, but they do continue to accrue waiting time, a United Network for Organ Sharing spokesperson said.

Additionally, the UNOS spokesperson said candidates may be on the waiting list at multiple transplant programs or transfer their waiting list time from one program to another.

However, each transplant program has its own criteria for evaluating and accepting candidates. A candidate would need to contact a transplant program to learn its criteria.

Houston Methodist, Baylor St. Lukes Medical Center and the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center also offer transplant programs in Houston.

A Houston Methodist spokesperson said that it had received calls from several liver transplant candidates and was actively working to get them into the hospitals transplant program.

Have patients taken any legal action?

A growing number of families have announced they are pursuing legal action against Bynon since the controversy became public.

On May 1, the family of a man who sought a liver transplant at Memorial Hermann joined a case filed on behalf of the families of three other patients who died while seeking liver transplants. The families are seeking a temporary restraining order and injunction against Bynon that would prevent the destruction or manipulation of any records that might be relevant to a potential lawsuit, according to the court filing.

Bynon has been ordered to appear on May 13 in Harris County District Court.

Neither Bynon nor his attorney have responded to multiple requests for comment about the legal filings.
Gelsingers keynote speech called out Nvidias popular H100 GPU, saying the Gaudi 3 AI accelerator delivers 50% on average better inference and 40% on average better power efficiency at a fraction of the cost. Intel also claims Gaudi 3 outperforms the H100 for training up different types of LLMs  and can do so up to 50% faster.

The server and storage infrastructure needed for training extremely large LLMs will take up an increasing portion of the AI infrastructure market due to the LLMs insatiable hunger for compute and data, according to IDC Research. IDC projects that the worldwide AI hardware market (server and storage), including for running generative AI, will grow from $18.8 billion in 2021 to $41.8 billion in 2026, representing close to 20% of the total server and storage

infrastructure market.

Along with its rapidly growing use in data center servers, genAI is expected to drive on-device AI chipsets for PCs and other mobile devices to more than 1.8 billion units by 2030. Thats because laptops, smartphones, and other form factors will increasingly ship with on-device AI capabilities, according to ABI Research. In laymans terms, Intel wants its Xeon chips (and NPUs) to power those desktop, mobile and edge devices. Intels next generation Core Ultra processor  Lunar Lake  is expected to launch later this year, and it will have more than 100 platform tera operations per second (TOPS) and more than 45 NPU TOPS aimed at a new generation of PCs enabled for genAI use.
The UKs antitrust regulator has put tech giants on notice after expressing concern that developments in the AI market could stifle innovation.

Sarah Cardell, CEO of the UKs Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), delivered a speech on the regulation of artificial intelligence in Washington DC on Thursday, highlighting new AI-specific elements of a previously announced investigation into cloud service providers.

The CMA will also investigate how Microsofts partnership with OpenAI might be affecting competition in the wider AI ecosystem. Another strand of the probe will look into the competitive landscape in AI accelerator chips, a market segment where Nvidia holds sway.
The country's scientific community has sounded the alarm over avian influenza following its spread among non-bird animals.

Avian influenza is typically associated with birds. But recently, the virus made an unprecedented leap to cattle across six U.S. states, prompting intensified scrutiny from researchers and health officials.

The emergence of this worrisome strain among cattle signifies a significant shift in the virus's transmission dynamics and poses potential risks to human health and agricultural stability, according to experts.

As health authorities grapple with the evolving situation, Daniel Goldhill, an evolutionary virologist at the Royal Veterinary College, noted the urgency of the matter by pointing out the unpredictable nature of viruses and the need to remain vigilant.

While the overall threat to human health remains low for now, experts urged for comprehensive surveillance and swift action to contain the spread and mitigate potential risks.

The outbreak, which marks the first widespread incidence of avian influenza in cattle, has prompted a flurry of scientific inquiries aimed at unraveling the intricacies of transmission pathways and assessing the efficacy of candidate vaccines and antiviral drugs.

Researchers are particularly focused on determining whether the virus is spreading between cows and identifying the underlying mechanisms driving its dissemination within the bovine population.

Of particular concern is the potential for the virus to undergo mutations that enhance its transmissibility in mammals, thereby posing a heightened threat to human health.

"The more mammalian species the virus infects, the more opportunities it has to evolve a strain that is dangerous to humans," Goldhill stated, according to Nature.

While current surveillance efforts have shed light on the transmission dynamics within cattle herds, researchers stressed the need for continued vigilance and international collaboration to monitor viral evolution and assess the effectiveness of existing preventive measures.

Moreover, virologist Richard Webby reportedly said that it is important to determine the precise mode of transmission and if the virus is indeed spreading among cows.

Science also reported that virus levels in the animals' milk suggest a potential route of transmission distinct from airborne dispersion, which poses challenges in containment and facilitates rapid dissemination.

Should cows contract the virus through contact with contaminated surfaces like milking machines, transmission would occur at a slower pace compared to airborne transmission.

For now, experts and health officials are monitoring the situation while also looking for answers and possible solutions.
Kundalini yoga, a practice that blends physical postures, breathing techniques, mantra chanting, and meditation, has gained popularity for its holistic approach to health and well-being. Originating from ancient Indian traditions, Kundalini yoga is not just about physical fitness but it aims to align the body, mind and spirit.

Physical benefits

One of the primary benefits of Kundalini yoga is its positive impact on physical health. The practice involves dynamic movements and postures that help improve flexibility, strength and balance. Regular practice can enhance circulation, stimulate the nervous system, and promote better digestion. Additionally, Kundalini yoga is known to boost energy levels and vitality, leaving practitioners feeling more energized and rejuvenated.

Mental and emotional well-being

Beyond its physical benefits, Kundalini yoga also has positive effects on mental and emotional well-being. The combination of breathing exercises, meditation and chanting helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and alleviate anxiety. Practitioners often report improved focus, clarity of thought, and a greater sense of inner peace. Kundalini yoga encourages self-awareness and mindfulness, creating a deeper connection with one's emotions and inner self.

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become a prevalent issue for many. Kundalini yoga provides an effective tool for stress relief and relaxation. The practice includes specific techniques such as deep breathing exercises and guided meditation, which help activate the body's relaxation response. As a result, practitioners experience reduced tension, improved sleep quality and an overall sense of calm and tranquility.

For those seeking a spiritual exercise

Kundalini yoga is deeply rooted in spiritual traditions, aiming to awaken the dormant energy within the body known as Kundalini. Through regular practice, one may experience spiritual growth and transformation. The practice encourages self-discovery, introspection and a deeper understanding of one's purpose in life. Many practitioners find that Kundalini yoga helps them connect with their higher consciousness, leading to a greater sense of fulfillment and spiritual awakening.
Loneliness has grown to be a pressing concern all over the world. In Ohio, particularly, experts warn of its detrimental impact on public health. Comparing its effects with smoking and obesity, health professionals highlight the severity of the issue, emphasizing its prevalence even before the COVID-19 pandemic.

What experts are saying

In a report, former director of the Ohio Department of Health Dr. Amy Acton shared the alarming statistic that approximately one in two people in Ohio experience severe loneliness at any given time. This was made worse by the pandemic, raising serious health concerns, which are comparable to the consequences of smoking and obesity.

The loneliness epidemic extends beyond adults, with children and teenagers also bearing its brunt. Last year, high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, often facing challenges in accessing mental health support.

Dr. Megan Schabbing noted the challenges faced by teenagers who feel hopeless and isolated, stressing the importance of social support networks in mitigating loneliness among youth.

While seeking social connections initially may be a coping mechanism for loneliness, chronic isolation can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.

Dr. Whitney Raglin Bignall has warned that prolonged loneliness can lead people to believe that others do not want their presence, exacerbating feelings of alienation and pushing away potential sources of support.

The role of technology

Technology, while facilitating connectivity through social media platforms, also contributes to feelings of loneliness. Bignall pointed out that excessive reliance on digital devices harms genuine interpersonal connections, creating a sense of isolation even in the presence of others.

The power of kindness

In combating loneliness, Acton emphasized the transformative power of kindness. She is advocating for connection, compassion and care as antidotes to loneliness, highlighting the importance of fostering meaningful relationships and supportive communities.
State and local governments across the United States are urgently responding to the surge in mental health challenges among young people, which intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With anxiety and depression levels persisting at alarming rates, policymakers are exploring a multitude of approaches to address the crisis, despite the absence of clear causative factors.

In a nationwide effort, policymakers are adopting innovative measures, ranging from embedding crisis hotlines on student IDs to funding tele-therapy programs and expanding mental health services within schools.

New York City, for instance, has unveiled a comprehensive mental health agenda, investing $12 million in tele-therapy services and launching community suicide prevention initiatives, Politico reported.

Recognizing schools as potential hubs for mental health care delivery, policymakers are advocating for the integration of mental health education into curricula and facilitating access to counseling services on school premises.

Dr. Sunny Patel of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration stressed the importance of leveraging educational institutions to enhance accessibility to mental health support.

"Schools are akin to what primary care functions for adults," Patel said, according to Politico, also noting the education system was "a major place of investment" for the administration.

Moreover, online platforms are emerging as viable channels for mental health interventions, with initiatives like free virtual therapy gaining traction in major cities.

Despite concerns about the efficacy of online solutions, policymakers are extending telehealth regulations beyond the pandemic, aiming to make such services a permanent fixture in mental health care delivery.

While the proliferation of initiatives demonstrates a proactive approach to address the crisis, skepticism persists regarding the efficacy and coordination of these efforts.

Some experts have cautioned against a scattered approach, advocating for a more discerning evaluation of interventions to ensure meaningful impact.

Former Ohio Governor John Kasich pointed out the need for a strategic focus, warning against the risk of diluting efforts by attempting too much simultaneously.

"There is a tendency to try to do everything," Kasich said. "If you do everything, it's kind of like you're not going to do anything."

Despite uncertainties surrounding the effectiveness of various strategies, policymakers assert the urgency of action in light of the profound impact on the younger generation's well-being.

Dr. Ashwin Vasan of the New York City Health Department highlighted the need for immediate intervention, emphasizing that the cost of inaction is too high to ignore.

"If we don't act now," Vasan said, "these are young people that are going to deal with mental health problems the rest of their lives."
The robopocalypse is here, and its incredibly stupid. Its threatening to kill our jobs, our society, and eventually, probably all of us. Fortunately, we have laws preventing that from happening, even if they were intended just to keep other people from doing all those things. Thats why OpenAI, the organization that brought us ChatGPT, is currently struggling to breathe with its little robot lungs under the weight of all the lawsuits and investigations currently sitting on it.

Of course, most of the lawsuits concern the copyright ownership of the works ChatGPT has been trained on, which were written by real people with a financial stake in stopping any technology from barfing them out whole cloth. Nobody mentally inserts the title Intellectual Property Crusader after Sarah Silverman, but she led the charge in 2023, followed by groups that include such famous authors as George R.R. Martin and John Grisham. Nobody took the opportunity to ask Martin about his own blatant plagiarism of Gone With the freaking Wind, but fine.

To liven things up, and probably because he felt left out by the cool people, Elon Musk threw his hat into the legal ring against OpenAI as well. That might seem odd because Musk was actually a co-founder of the organization, but thats also the root of his lawsuit: Hes claiming the company has breach(ed) its founding agreement and diverg(ed) from its original, nonprofit mission by charging some of its customers for some of its services. This is a rare instance in which OpenAI immediately hit back, publishing old emails from Musk that prove, according to them, that hes just mad they wouldnt sell to Tesla and accusing him of abusing the legal process to access their records. Bitchhhh, they regrettably failed to add.

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The organization has even landed itself in hot water with more than one government, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and European Union data regulators. Unsurprisingly, the SEC is investigating mysterious suspicions that the organizations investors have been misled, while Europe is more concerned with privacy, probably because of all the nudity over there.

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Incidentally, we asked ChatGPT about all this, and since it hasnt been updated since January 2022, it played dumb.

Cowards.
As anybody whos been online at any point during the past 24 hours is likely aware, Conan OBrien just made his debut appearance on the hit YouTube show Hot Ones  or as Conan called it, a Charlie Rose Show where you eat hot wings. As we previously speculated, medical safety was a top priority for the extremely Irish former talk show host, which is why OBrien brought along his own personal physician Dr. Arroyo, aka his longtime writer Jose Arroyo.

Never one to shy away from going to unhinged extremes in order to make an audience laugh, not only did Conan devour the intensely spicy chicken wings (despite admitting that he never tasted spice until he was about 52 years old) he taunted host Sean Evans over the tame offerings, then proceeded to douse his wings in more hot sauce and even drank directly from the bottles. By the end of the episode, Conan was ranting and raving like a pepper-addled maniac, with a face that resembled a velvet painting of a sad clown that had been left outside in a rainstorm. It was glorious.

Naturally, seeing Conan gulp down hot sauce like it was fresh water on a warm summers day caused some viewers to become skeptical, and question whether or not the sauce Conan consumed was real or fake. The best evidence for this? The fact that Conan isnt currently dead. But Conan can be seen unwrapping the seals of several of the hot sauce bottles, meaning that if it was faked, it was a pretty elaborate undertaking that required far more work than buying a lab coat for one of his writers.

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A number of Simpsons fans couldnt help but playfully compare Conans Hot Ones appearance and the classic episode El Viaje Misterioso de Nuestro Jomer (The Mysterious Voyage of Homer) in which Homer similarly becomes unhinged after tasting a spicy delicacy: a chili made with peppers grown in a Guatemalan insane asylum.

Homer eventually decides to cheat  so did Conan take a page from his former co-worker? Maybe he coated his tongue with candle wax like Homer Simpson? asked one person on Reddit. Others had the same idea: Did he coat his tongue in wax? Be honest Conan!!

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Of course, it should be noted that drinking melted candle wax would severely burn someone, something the Fox censors were very worried about when that Simpsons episode first aired. So its more likely that Conan endured the pain because he will endure almost anything if he believes that the end result will be funny. In fact, he elucidated this exact philosophy during a 2023 episode of Conan OBrien Needs a Friend with guest Sarah Silverman, claiming that he would happily shatter his pelvis if it got a really great reaction from an audience of people, adding that, even if he wouldnt be able to walk for a year afterwards, his first concern would be how hard did they laugh?

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So really, compared to a debilitating pelvic injury, whats a little Pepper X in your gastrointestinal tract?

You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter (if it still exists by the time youre reading this).
The 5-year-old boy missed 12 days of school as the 2019 school year began, and his Alief campus left his mother four voicemails.

Finally, someone from the Alief Independent School District elementary school spoke to the mom during a home visit on the 12th day of absence, records show, but the boy would again miss class 10 days later.

The attempts two years ago to get the child back into a classroom would be one of the last before the boy and his three older brothers seemingly fell off the radar. Until last weekend.

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Last Sunday afternoon, the eldest called 911 with an emergency: His 8-year-old brother had been dead for nearly a year in a west Harris County apartment that the siblings were forbidden from leaving. Sheriffs deputies found soiled carpets, no furniture or power and roaches crawling on the skeletal remains.

The scant details that have emerged encapsulate the worst fears that child abuse advocates shared when Houston-area school districts lost touch, in some capacity, with nearly 190,000 kids during spring 2020. Classrooms became vacant as instruction turned virtual, but many kids rarely, if ever, connected.

The number of child abuse and neglect reports in both Harris County and the greater Houston region decreased about 7 percent in 2020, Department of Family and Protective Services figures show, and that decrease is likely because kids were interacting with fewer adults who often report abuse, such as teachers, pediatricians and extended family, experts say.

Here we have an extreme example of what can happen when kids fall through the cracks, said Teresa Huizar, executive director of National Childrens Alliance, an organization aimed at ending child abuse. They fell through essentially every crack that was surfaced by the pandemic.

Authorities have said the slain child, Kendrick Lee, was beaten to death by his mothers boyfriend around Thanksgiving at CityParc II at West Oaks Apartments. Both the mother, Gloria Williams, 35, and her boyfriend, Brian Coulter, 31, were arrested in connection to his death last week.

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Two of the children saw the fatal beating, and Coulter allegedly abused the others, frequently, when he drank. The kids, authorities have said, were possibly locked in different parts of the apartment.

Theres been so many events that have happened in the last year or two, from the pandemic to the civil unrest to the power outages and the arctic freeze in Texas in February and to think of those children having to fend for themselves and do this all alone  and not even have the basic necessities that they need, said Estella Olguin, a spokeswoman for Harris County Resources for Children and Adults. It is unbelievable.

Andrea Beall, who prosecutes child death cases, speaks to reporters after Brian Coulter made his first court appearance Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, in Houston. Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Pandemic disruptions

Under Texas law, anyone who suspects neglect or abuse must report it. Professional reporters, a designation that includes individuals who have contact with youngsters, are required to report any concerns within 48 hours.

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Once reported, the department has 30 days to decide if there are threats to the safety of the children in a home. Probes of incidents posing an immediate risk to a child must be started within 24 hours while investigations of incidents that dont present an immediate risk of harm should be started within 72 hours, per agency protocol.

At the end of an investigation, protective services makes rulings on each allegation of reason to believe, ruled out, unable to complete or unable to determine.

The states Child Protective Services, which assumed custody of the three survivors last week, confirmed it had a history with the family but a spokeswoman said she could not share any information due to confidentiality laws. There was no active investigation when the children were found, and they remained in the custody of their mother, according to the agency.

While the number of abuse and neglect reports decreased from 38,672 in 2019 in Harris County to 35,797 in 2020, the number of investigations completed remained about the same from 25,695 in 2019 to 25,253 in 2020.

Although numbers of calls to the hotline slowed during the peak of the pandemic in the spring and summer of 2020, by fall of last year numbers had returned to historically average levels, spokesperson Melissa Lanford said.

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Any interruption to normal life  such as a hurricane or pandemic  can remove kids from places where abuse may be observed or where they may be comfortable confiding in an adult, said Kerry McCracken, executive director of The Childrens Assessment Center, an organization that aims to help heal child victims of sexual abuse.

When life is disrupted and they dont have access to those trusted adults, McCracken said, they dont have the opportunity to report.

The Harris County Sheriffs Office, the main investigating entity, did not receive any reports of foul odors or other suspicious activity regarding the unit, either.

Neighbors, however, said they had complained to the front office of the apartment complex about an overwhelming odor that plagued them for weeks. One of them, Titania Shorter, who had scrubbed her front porch with Clorox and searched the bushes for any dead animals, said she never saw an employee investigate.

Brian Coulter makes his first court appearance Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, in Houston. Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer Brian Coulter makes his first court appearance Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, in Houston. Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer Brian Coulter makes his first court appearance Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, in Houston. Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer Brian Coulter speaks to his attorney during his first court appearance Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, in Houston. Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Tracking hard-to-reach students

As the pandemic shuttered school campuses across the world, the Texas Education Agency asked districts in May 2020 to log numbers and percentages of students who had not been in contact.

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That month was the last that the boys were enrolled in Alief ISD, spokesman Craig Eichhorn said. The school attempted a home visit when the kids did return the following school year, but it was unsuccessful.

Three neighboring districts  Fort Bend and Spring Branch ISDs and Stafford Municipal School District  did not have records of the children being enrolled, spokespersons for each said. It was unclear if they may have been enrolled elsewhere.

TEA asked districts to use one of nine indicators for kids who were affected by the pandemic, ranging from engaged for the majority of remote instruction to not contactable at all. For a dashboard on its data portal, the agency used two designations  engaged and not fully engaged.

A greater percentage of younger kids were considered not fully engaged in spring 2020 in the Houston region, which includes 47 school districts in seven counties, according to the data TEA asked districts to track.

For instance, roughly 22 percent of 144,797 students in prekindergarten and kindergarten and 17 percent of 456,850 kids in grades 1 through 5 fell in that category. About 12 percent of 347,266 high school students were categorized as such.

The state also asked districts to develop strategies to locate those hard-to-reach students.

HISD officials did that by asking students what they needed to participate in school and what was occurring in their lives, be it food or wifi or technology, said William Solomon, the districts director of strategy and innovation. The district bought laptops and wifi hotspots and tried to ensure food was available through banks.

While some of the students or their guardians could be reached over the phone, the district also canvassed neighborhoods and held phone banking sessions.

And there was a sense of urgency that has continued into this school year.

We have an ethical obligation to make sure that kids have everything they need to be successful, Solomon said. Every day a kid is not in school is a day that they are losing out not only on instruction but also food, also people who care about them, also an opportunity to be in a safe space. And at the onset of the pandemic, when everybody was learning virtually, that was all any of us were talking about.

Harris County Sheriff's deputies surround the west Houston apartment complex where three siblings were found, along with the skeletal remains of a fourth. Mark Mulligan

Lost lives

Kendrick, the 8-year-old whose remains were found in the apartment, is one of several children whose alleged abuse went unnoticed during the pandemic in Texas.

Between September 2019 to August 2020, 251 children died as a result of abuse and neglect in Texas, according to an annual report from protective services. There were another 92 neglect and abuse cases that nearly resulted in fatalities, the report shows.

Samuel Olson, 5, was allegedly killed at the hands of his fathers girlfriend, 29-year-old Theresa Balboa, while quarantined together in April. His body was found June 1 in a Jasper motel room. Olson was reportedly last seen at school on April 30 and wasnt reported missing by his father until May 27.

Amari Boone, 3, was allegedly killed by foster caretakers in April 2020 in the Fort Worth area. When he was admitted to the hospital, the toddler had bleeding in his brain and several broken bones, law enforcement reported.

In Irving, police say Jeremiah Degrate Rios, 2, was beaten to death by his mothers boyfriend, 23-year-old Arturo Santiago Pena-Almanza Jr. in September. The man reportedly told investigators that he hit the child over the head several times because the boys behavior enraged him.

A few weeks after Coulter allegedly killed Kendrick, he and Williams moved out of the apartment but left the boys and the body. It remains unclear whether any relatives or friends had suspicions or concerns about the youngsters well-being.

You just wonder, said Olguin, who is not involved in the investigation, like how its possible?
SCHOHARIE COUNTY  While water levels are high, Schoharie officials are not concerned about any major flooding at this time. That being said, they continue to monitor the situation.

The National Weather Service has issued a warning for minor flooding of the Schoharie Creek at Gilboa Bridge until Saturday morning.

The river is expected to rise above flood stage late this morning to a crest of 17.5 feet this afternoon, the National Weather Service stated in the warning. It will then fall below flood stage just after midnight tonight.

Schoharie County Fire Coordinator Matt Brisley said they believe the river will stay bankfull or just above bankfull in some areas.

There was a lot of rain in the Catskills yesterday and overnight and we might pick up another inch or so down in the watershed over the next two days but we dont expect any major or moderate flooding, he said.

He said they are continuing to monitor the situation as the creeks are swollen and that New York City hasnt let out any of the water at Gilboa Dam.

They promised the county they would keep the reservoir at 90% or below up until May 1 so it would offset some of the spring rainfall, but the Schoharie Reservoir that the city owns, Gilboa Dam, thats been filled to the brim for over two weeks, Brisley said. They havent been a real good partner. So anything that comes in is going right back out.

The dam did hit a trigger point Friday morning of 5,000 cubic feet per second (CFS), indicating the fire departments should monitor the dam, which Brisley said it has been doing all week.

He said, if it was to hit around 15,000 CFS near Prattsville that would cause water near some roads. He said, if it was to get around 25,000 CFS then officials would be worried about flooding on Route 30 and other areas.

However, Brisley said extreme rainfall isnt expected to occur. He said county emergency officials have also been in contact with town supervisors and are keeping them up to date.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for until 7 p.m. Saturday for Fulton, Hamilton and Montgomery counties.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez listens to questions during a press conference updating the public about its ongoing investigation of the children found abandoned in an apartment last week in Houston on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

It's been three days since three children living with the skeletal remains of their slain brother were rescued from a west Harris County apartment. Their rescue has gripped the nation's attention and resulted in countless lingering questions.

Here's what we know about the case so far:

The discovery

Three children, ages 7, 10 and 15, were found abandoned Sunday afternoon at 3530 Green Crest Drive at the CityParc II West Oaks Apartments. The 15-year-old placed a 911 call around 4 p.m. stating his 8-year-old brother Kendrick Lee had been dead inside their apartment for over a year.

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Neighbors watch from adjacent apartments as law enforcement officials investigate a scene where, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, three juveniles were found living alone along with the skeletal remains of another juvenile, in a third floor apartment at the CityParc II at West Oaks Apartments on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, at in west Houston. Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Conditions inside the home

The children were found in deplorable conditions that seemed "too horrible to be real, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said Wednesday. The apartment they were staying in had no power for weeks and was riddled with soiled carpet, roaches and flies; there was no furniture, bedding or blankets; they were malnourished and forbidden from leaving the apartment.

Mugshots of Gloria Y. Williams, 35, and her boyfriend Brian W. Coulter, 31, are displayed after a press conference at the Harris County Sheriffs Department in Houston on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021. Williams and Coulter left her children in an apartment for over a year. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

The mother routinely had food delivered to the apartment and neighbors helped the children with food and charging their phones. The children were allegedly abandoned in March when the mother and her boyfriend moved out of the apartment, leaving Kendricks body to decompose under a blanket.

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MORE ON RESCUE: Abandoned kids lived for weeks with no power, relied on neighbor for food and phone charging

Child's cause of death

The 8-year-old child found dead in the apartment was killed by homicidal violence with multiple blunt force injuries in November 2020. The mother's boyfriend, Brian Coulter, is reported to have beaten the child to death.

Mother, boyfriend arrested

The mother, Gloria Williams, 35, was arrested Tuesday on charges of injury to a child by omission and tampering with evidence. Coulter was also arrested on Tuesday and has been charged with murder in the death of the child. Coulter is being held on a $1 million bail, while Williams was held on a combined $900,000 bail on the charges.

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The children's mother, Gloria Williams, 35, and her boyfriend, Brian Coulter, 31, have been arrested and charged. Harris County Sheriff's Office

School involvement

Three of the children were enrolled in Alief ISD until May 2020. School officials attempted to visit the home in September 2020 to try and return the children to classes but were unsuccessful. A 2019 truancy case against the mother for her youngest child's lack of attendance at Holmquist Elementary School was later dismissed due to COVID reasons.

Where the children are now

The children are being held in Child Protective Services custody. Weeks before their rescue, Coulter returned to the apartment and punched one of the children, authorities said. Police determined that child never received medical treatment and needed jaw surgery.

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Lingering questions

The mother has two other children, including a teenage girl, according to a grandmother who cared for the children previously. It is unknown where the teenage girl is. The Harris County Sheriffs Office never received a report of foul odors or other suspicious activity from the unit. It is unclear why no one notified the Harris County Sheriff's Office about the children living there.

Nicole Hensley, Anna Bauman, Hannah Dellinger, Robert Downen, Nora Mishanec and Samantha Ketterer contributed to this report
Sir Keir Starmer's 'cast-iron commitment' to maintaining Britain's independent nuclear deterrent will be welcomed by millions of voters.

In his article in today's Mail, the Labour leader is unequivocal in his support for four planned Dreadnought nuclear submarines, which from the 2030s will carry the new generation of Trident nuclear missiles.

Sir Keir's pledge is not strictly new, since John Healey, the admirable shadow defence secretary, said in 2021 that Labour's support for retaining nuclear weapons was 'non-negotiable'.

But such a forthright commitment, coming as it does from Sir Keir himself, and containing an assurance that all four submarines will be built in Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria, carries particular authority as it seems likely that Labour will form the next government of the United Kingdom.

His endorsement of Britain's fledging AUKUS defence alliance with Australia and the United States (probably only possible because of the Brexit he so obsessively tried to thwart) is also encouraging. Dare one say that, in this article, he sometimes sounds like a sensible Tory leader?

Sir Keir Starmer's 'cast-iron commitment' to maintaining Britain's independent nuclear deterrent will be welcomed by millions of voters

In his article in today's Mail, the Labour leader is unequivocal in his support for four planned Dreadnought nuclear submarines

Sir Keir evidently realises that we live in an increasingly dangerous world. Russia has an enormous stockpile of nuclear weapons, which it is not shy of threatening to use, while China is steadily increasing its number of nuclear warheads.

Possession of a credible independent nuclear deterrent is as close as it is possible to get to an ultimate guarantee of safety in a world in which Russia and China  and probably soon a nuclear-armed Iran  are throwing their weight around.

Who can doubt that Russia would have thought more carefully before invading Ukraine if in the early 1990s Kyiv hadn't voluntarily given up the nuclear arsenal it inherited when the Soviet Union fell apart?

So the Labour leader should be congratulated. He is a man who sometimes likes to sit on the fence, or to jump from one side to the other so adroitly that one doesn't always know exactly where he has landed. Not so in relation to Britain's nuclear deterrent.

Yet, cheering though Sir Keir's article is, I don't believe that the argument within Labour about nuclear weapons is entirely closed. It is no exaggeration to say that, whether or not Britain should have its own nuclear deterrent, has been the most contentious issue for the party over the past 70 years.

Sir Keir is correct to mention in his piece that it was the Labour Prime Minister Clement Attlee, supported by Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin, who set up Britain's nuclear programme in Labour's post-war government.

What he understandably glosses over is the long-term hostility of the Labour Left to Britain's nuclear deterrent. In 1957, when Labour was in opposition, Left-wingers tried to persuade the party that Britain should get rid of its nuclear weapons.

Leftist firebrand Aneurin Bevan astounded colleagues by arguing that, if the unilateralists got their way, they would send a future Labour foreign secretary 'naked into the conference chamber'. The motion was defeated.

But the issue continued to divide the party. Before the 1964 general election, Labour leader Harold Wilson questioned whether Polaris, then Britain's main nuclear system, was either independent or a deterrent. Nonetheless, once he became PM Wilson gave Polaris his support.

Under the leadership of Michael Foot, who had been a founder member of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND), Labour fought the 1983 election on a unilateralist platform. Its manifesto, which contained other unpopular policies, was justly described by one of its Right-wing MPs as 'the longest suicide note in history'.

Four vessels  HMS Dreadnought, HMS Valiant, HMS Warspite and HMS King George VI  will replace the ageing Vanguard fleet and become the nation's main nuclear deterrents

After losing the 1987 election with Neil Kinnock at the helm, Labour abandoned unilateralism. But the party didn't wholeheartedly embrace Britain's nuclear deterrent until Tony Blair became its leader.

Yet in 2006 Blair faced one of the biggest Commons rebellions of his period in office over his plans to renew Trident, with 88 Labour MPs voting against the government. Even in the heyday of Blairism, Labour's unilateralists hadn't gone away.

When Jeremy Corbyn, a former CND stalwart, became Labour leader in 2015, the argument again tilted strongly towards unilateralism. Whilst the party didn't formally adopt it as a policy, Corbyn's feelings were plain. He had declared in 2015 that he would never use nuclear weapons.

Labour's history on this issue is therefore a very tangled one, and it would be naive to suppose that Sir Keir's unequivocal stance marks the end of the argument.

I'm sure it hasn't escaped his notice that in 2015 Scottish Labour delegates overwhelmingly voted to scrap the UK's Trident nuclear missile system, which is based at Faslane on the Clyde, though the party's 2017 election manifesto backtracked on the undertaking.

The Scottish National Party has said that in the event of independence it will stop nuclear submarines being based at Faslane. Since there aren't currently any practicable alternatives, no UK government could accept such an outcome.

A section of the Royal Navy's new nuclear submarine is seen being moved along a street in Cumbria last year

Will Scottish Labour campaign during the forthcoming election to retain the nuclear facilities at Faslane? It seems unlikely. Labour in Scotland won't be singing from Sir Keir's hymn sheet on this matter.

As for his own backbench MPs, in the event of his becoming prime minister they won't all be backing Britain's independent nuclear deterrent if the past is any guide. However, he can probably expect the support of a future Labour Cabinet, and in particular of the prospective defence secretary, John Healey.

My point is that, much as I welcome Sir Keir Starmer's bold article, he doesn't speak for his entire party.

Nevertheless, the positive, patriotic tone of his piece is bound to unsettle the Tories. Whilst there is no doubt about their commitment to our nuclear deterrent, the seriousness with which Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt are taking the defence of the realm at a time of crisis can be justly questioned.

If Sir Keir Starmer undertook to increase the share of GDP that Britain spends on defence to 2.5 per cent and then 3 per cent  something this Government has incomprehensibly refused to do  he really would outflank the Tories on what is supposed to be one of their core issues.

For true Conservatives, defence is of paramount importance. Far more important than party, of course.

The storm clouds are gathering. In articulating the need for the British independent nuclear deterrent, and his complete commitment to it, Sir Keir Starmer will appeal to many who have so far doubted him.
Breaking news Houston Chronicle

A woman is accused of leaving her 6-year-old and 8-year-old alone at their Houston luxury high-rise apartment while she went on a cruise, court records show.

Lakesha Woods Williams, 29, was arrested Thursday and charged with abandoning a child with intent to return, with a bond set at $25,000, records show.

On April 9, Harris County sheriffs deputies responded to a call for a wellness check at an apartment complex off Katy Freeway near Memorial City Mall, the records state. Neighbors told Harris County Sheriffs deputies that they were worried for the safety of two children in one of the apartment units after last seeing Williams, leaving the children alone while carrying luggage and bags.

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When deputies entered the apartment, they found the two children, surrounded by trash and leftover food, with a potent smell of urine, the records state.

Williams is accused of leaving her children alone, without any supervision or care, between April 4 and 9 to go on vacation.

These children were left unattended for many days and put in harms way, Keegan Childers, the chief prosecutor of the 209th District Court, told ABC 13 reporters. For them to provide for themselves, feed themselves, take care of themselves, as well as what if somebody breaks in? What if theres a bad neighbor? Any number of horror, nightmare scenarios that could come up.

Houston firefighters determined both children were in good condition, and they were released to their aunt, the records state.

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Williams is alleged to have been using a camera and a phone to check in on her children.

Deputies tried contacting Williams, but she was apparently not cooperating and changing her story on her whereabouts, the records state.
Five years after the death of Harold Wilson's political secretary Marcia Williams (later Baroness Falkender) Bernard Donoghue claims he persuaded the Labour PM's doctor not to kill Marcia for her constant 'nagging and shouting' at him.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Lord Donoghue, then head of the Downing Street Policy Unit, recalls Dr Joe Stone suggesting he prescribe a lethal 'bad pill' among the hundreds of uppers and downers Williams took weekly.

'He raised his professional concern that Marcia's constant attacking of Harold Wilson might lead to his death. He thought disposing of Marcia was in the national interest.' I'm sure Harold's sainted wife Mary felt the same.

Five years after the death of Harold Wilson's political secretary Marcia Williams, Bernard Donoghue claims he persuaded the Labour PM's doctor not to kill her. Pictured: Harold Wilson

Baroness Falkender (formerly Marcia Williams), political secretary to British Prime Minister Harold Wilson, arrives at 10 Downing Street

Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Lord Donoghue (pictured), then head of the Downing Street Policy Unit, recalls Dr Joe Stone suggesting he prescribe a lethal 'bad pill'

The palatial Foreign Office building in Whitehall, threatened with redundancy as being old fashioned and elitist, has never had a name.

Now mandarins are backing a proposal that it be named after Queen Elizabeth II, certainly the most globetrotting of monarchs and greatest diplomat.

But the plan is on ice because the Government doesn't want to hinder the committee it established to come up with a memorial for the late monarch.

It is not due to report until 2026. Will it be Keir Starmer, who once was all in favour of abolishing the monarchy, who rubber stamps the final decision?

The palatial Foreign Office building in Whitehall, threatened with redundancy as being old fashioned and elitist, has never had a name

Sports presenter Gabby Logan discreetly declines to name the female TV newcasters whose dishevelled hair infuriates her.

'It's so distracting when somebody's hair is a mess on telly, especially when a newsreader has a hair out of place,' Gabby, pictured, tells Top Sante magazine. '

It really bothers me  because it is distracting, and that means the message isn't being heard. My hair is my coat of confidence. I feel I can take on the world when my hair looks good.'

Sports presenter Gabby Logan discreetly declines to name the female TV newcasters whose dishevelled hair infuriates her

Imelda Staunton's husband Jim Carter, alias obsequious butler Carson in Downton Abbey, complains about her bagging the role of a posh aristo in the 2019 film version of the show.

'I was furious when I found out she got the part of Lady Maud Bagshaw,' he wails. 'I thought, 'I'm not serving her wine at home.' Pipes up Mrs Carter: 'And I was The Queen!'

Trouser-splitting aficionado PJ Proby tells retro magazine The Beat about his early hedonistic Hollywood lifestyle with orgies and nude swimming, which attracted local complaints.

'One day one of my neighbours came to the door and said, 'I'm speaking on behalf of everybody in the community who wants to have you thrown out of the street. I don't mind any of that. I wouldn't mind coming to some of the parties myself.'

Trouser-splitting aficionado PJ Proby tells retro magazine The Beat about his early hedonistic Hollywood lifestyle with orgies and nude swimming, which attracted local complaints

She added, 'Are you PJ Proby?', and I said, 'Yes  and you're Katharine Hepburn.'

The Mick Jagger-associated online store Granny Takes a Trip is charging very un-60's prices, with the monthly rental of a retro skirt at 465 and a vintage bomber jacket 235.

Even a lace T-shirt is 75, a sum that would surely have hired all the Rolling Stones when they lived in Edith Grove in 1962.
FEMAIL spoke to dermatologists who weighed on about the its effectiveness

A beauty guru has declared that a high-frequency wand is the 'most underrated' skincare product for combatting acne and inflammation - but is that really true?

Tatyana Lafata, a content creator based in the U.S., gushed over the tool in a video posted to her TikTok recently.

'Forget serums, forget products, this is the most accurate and efficient way to get rid of breakouts, to get rid of pimples, to get rid of inflammation,' Lafata claimed in the clip.

'It's also gonna stimulate collagen, but it's gonna kill all the bacteria under your skin.'

In a new video posted to TikTok, beauty content creator Tatyana Lafata swore that a high-frequency wand is the 'most underrated' skincare item

'Forget serums, forget products, this is the most accurate and efficient way to get rid of breakouts,' she told her followers

The influencer swore by the product, explaining that it helps to combat her breakouts and other skin issues

The influencer added that whenever she gets a breakout, she just likes to 'zap them away' with the wand, claiming that if you do it the night before, your blemish will be gone by the morning.

And, in the comments section of her post, many seemed to agree.

'Totally underrated. High frequency is old school and works! I remember using this back in beauty school 30 years ago!' one person wrote.

Another typed, 'Hard agree. They're amazing.'

So, is her secret for great skin the real deal?

According to New York-based dermatologist Dr. Navin S. Arora of Boeralis Dermatology, Lafata could definitely be on to something when it came to using a high-frequency wand to achieve a flawless complexion.

He explained that this was not a new concept, as the wand had been used by many for decades.

'High-frequency wands can be an effective tool for improving skin health, stimulating collagen production, and combating acne,' Dr. Arora told DailyMail.com.

He broke down how the wand works, explaining to DailyMail.com that the science 'lies in their ability to generate electrical currents at high frequencies, typically around 100,000 cycles per second.'

As a result, the wand emits a gentle electrical current on the skin, which can have some big benefits.

'When it comes to combating pimples and breakouts, the high-frequency wand's antibacterial properties play a significant role,' the dermatologist said.

'The electrical current creates oxygen molecules that have an antibacterial effect on the skin.

Dr. Maragarita Lolis, a dermatologist at New Jersey's Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists, and Dr. Navin S. Arora of Boeralis Dermatology in New York weighed in on the device

'This can help to kill acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing of breakouts.'

Dr. Maragarita Lolis, a dermatologist at New Jersey's Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists, recommends using the tool on each area for about three to five minutes, one to three times per week.

When the wand is on certain areas of you face, you may feel a tingling sensation or be left with some redness, Dr. Arora told DailyMail.com.

'It's essential to start with a low intensity setting and gradually increase it to avoid any adverse reactions,' he said.

However, when using a high-frequency wand on your face, it's imperative that you're doing so correctly in order to avoid any unwanted side effects.

'Potential risks include skin irritation, redness, and dryness,' Dr. Lolis explained to DailyMail.com.

'People with sensitive skin, pacemakers, or metal implants, as well as pregnant individuals, should avoid using high-frequency devices.'

She recommends talking to a dermatologist or another skincare professional before using the wand, especially if you have underlying skin or health conditions.
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From Bioderma's Micellar Water to Nuxe's Huile Prodigieuse Dry Oil and Avene's Thermal Spring Water mist, there are a number of cult French beauty buys that are well known for having multi-tasking properties.

Now, the brand behind one of the most iconic and versatile French products, one that is sold every eight seconds, has just released a brand new version of its popular cream in response to a growing beauty concern.

Embryolisse's Lait-Creme Concentre is beloved by celebrities, make-up artists and beauty enthusiasts around the world because it is a multi-use product that nourishes, soothes and protects the skin acting as a primer, moisturiser, mask, cleanser and after-sun soother.

Building upon the original formula, Embryolisse has launched Lait-Creme Multi-Protection ($41), a moisturiser with SPF 15 that focus on hydrating your skin barrier and aims to help protect against blue light damage.

Iconic brand Embryolisse has launched Lait-Creme Multi-Protection ($41), a moisturiser with SPF 15 that aims to help protect against blue light damage

Along with aloe vera, soy proteins, shea butter and beeswax, the Lait-Creme Multi-Protection cream also includes organic UV filters in an effort to help shield against blue light and pollution

So if you spend your days in front of a screen and are exposed to the blue light these devices emit, this new release is something you'll want to know about.

According to a recent study* working at computers can affect your skin as 'being exposed to blue light accelerates the ageing process and produces cutaneous hyperpigmentation.'

The study concluded that 'these negative consequences may eventually cause more general skin damage, which may hasten the ageing process. At times, skin protection may be crucial for protection against blue light.'

According to a recent study* working at computers can affect your skin as 'being exposed to blue light accelerates the ageing process and produces cutaneous hyperpigmentation

Along with aloe vera, soy proteins, shea butter and beeswax, the Lait-Creme Multi-Protection cream also includes organic UV filters in an effort to help shield against blue light and pollution.

Despite only being launched in Australia on The French Beauty Co website last month, a happy customer has already raved about the product saying they 'loved' it. The beauty fan said: 'Soft cream and perfect base for my make-up'.

The anti-pollution moisturiser can be used as a nourishing moisturiser on its own or it can be treated as a primer for under make-up.

The anti-pollution moisturiser can be used as a nourishing moisturiser on its own or it can be treated as a primer for under make-up

I tried the new formulation and found it be quite thick, however it absorbed beautifully into my skin and left a nice glow. I also found my skin felt nourished throughout the day following a morning application.

I can be prone to breakouts but haven't experienced any while using the product and feel it is a great addition to my regime, especially given the cooler weather we've been experiencing.

My beauty non-negotiable is an SPF50 and the Lait-Creme Multi-Protection cream sits nicely underneath my sun protection and a BB cream.

When adding in make-up, I found the cream worked well as a primer, keeping products in place throughout the day.

The original Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre was first created in 1950 by a hospital dermatologist.

It's since gained a legion of fans, including A-listers like Kim Kardashian, Elle Macpherson and Lady Gaga.

Aussie Pharmacist and mum Alyssa Dimaggio has raved about the cream praising products in the range for their multitasking uses.

For more information on Embryolisse Lait-Creme Multi Protection cream click here.

*Kumari J, Das K, Babaei M, Rokni GR, Goldust M. The impact of blue light and digital screens on the skin. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Apr;22(4):1185-1190. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15576. Epub 2023 Jan 3. PMID: 36594795.
A former Brandy Melville employee has lifted the lid on her 'miserable' experience working at the trendy clothing store, describing the 'insane' regulations she was required to follow after landing the job at the tender age of 14.

Delaney Rinke, 22, chose to speak out against the popular fashion retailer just days after HBO documentary Brandy Hellville & The Cult of Fast Fashion laid bare its heinous underbelly, airing the shocking 'racism' and 'exploitation' many former employees say they suffered while working for the 'fast fashion cult'.

The California-based content creator detailed how she got hired when she was just a teen after an employee approached while she was in the store and asked to 'take a picture' of her outfit - with the manager of the store then later DMing Delaney and telling her when she could start, despite having not received any paperwork or application from her.

In a wide-ranging interview with People, Delaney joined the slew of employees who have slammed Brandy Melville as she claimed that her four years spent working at the retail shop were filled with 'insane' daily outfit checks that saw upper management taking photos of the teens that worked there to decide if they 'looked pretty enough to work there.'

Delaney Rinke, 22, has lifted the lid on her 'miserable' experience at the trendy clothing store, which she began working at when she was just 14 years old

In a wide-ranging interview with People , Delaney joined the slew of employees who have slammed Brandy Melville

Her confession comes just days after the an HBO documentary Brandy Hellville & The Cult of Fast Fashion laid bare the heinous underbelly of wildly popular clothing brand

She told the outlet that her journey with the fast fashion shop began when she was just a teen shopping around with her mom.

'They had asked to take a picture of my outfit and then asked if I was interested in a job. My mom was shopping around at the time, so she didn't see them take a picture, but she didn't think much of it,' she explained.

In a clip posted to her TikTok account about her experience, she claimed that after the photo was taken, she was told that she could 'start next week' and was advised to 'just follow someone on Instagram.'

Her manager at the time would send her instructions via Instagram DMs. Delaney claimed that the workers never asked to see any form of identification before she began her job.

'I was really, really young, so I was quite miserable at work,' she told People.

The 22-year-old claimed that her time at work was mostly spent doing an 'insane' amount of outfit checks.

'They'd be like, "Okay, cool, everybody, let's get outside." We would line up and wait to take turns taking pictures of our outfits. They would take three photos of every outfit. They would take full-body pictures.

'Then they would take a close-up of your top and your bottom, and then they would take a close-up of your shoes.

'Photos had to be very staged and make us look a lot older than we were, which was insane,' she explained.

On her social media account, Delaney noted that at the time, the workers never told her who the photos of the teens were being sent to.

'They send it to God knows who. Theyre not telling you who,' she said.

It wasn't until the 22-year-old became a visual manager at the shop that she discovered where the snaps were going.

'Later when I was in management, I found out those pictures were going to corporate.

'Essentially, the owner of the whole store was giving people strikes of their outfits or [deciding] if they looked pretty enough to work there. When people got to three outfits [strikes] that upper management did not like, their time was done,' she said.

According to the Shouse Law Group, the legal working age in California is 14 years old, however those under 18 must have a work permit. It's unclear whether or not Delaney had a work permit at the time she worked at Brandy Melville.

Brandy Melville was founded in the 1980s in Italy and opened its first store in the US in 2009 - and almost immediately, it was a huge success, becoming a style staple amongst teenagers throughout the 2010s.

But as thousands of young girls clamored to get their hands on the trendy and chic clothing, behind the scenes, the workers began telling their stories and claimed that they were subjected to rampant 'discrimination against race, sex, and size.'

The documentary, which was released on April 9 - lift the lid on how the brand became one of the biggest clothing companies on the globe, while allegedly harboring an extremely 'toxic work culture' unbeknownst to its loyal and growing fanbase.

In particular, the teaser pointed out that the brand used social media campaigns that revolved heavily around 'teenage girls taking photos of each other.'

Another woman claimed that Brandy Melville 'only hired skinny white girls' for its stores, while using people of color in its factories.

Back in 2020, a former Brandy Melville employee named Callie went viral on TikTok after she accused the company of being 'fatphobic' and 'racist' in a series of explosive videos.

'My second week on the job, someone comes in and theyre like, "Hi I want to work here,"' she recalled in one of her TikToks.

'And Im like, "OK, give me your resume and let me show my boss." And she gives me her resume and I go in the back and my boss looks at it for like half a second and she had all this amazing stuff on there and she goes, "What does she look like?"'

She claimed her manager asked her 'what race' the woman was, and after she said she was Asian, she was told to tell the woman that they 'weren't hiring.'

A slew of former employees spoke out about the horrifying racism and exploitation they suffered while working for the 'fast fashion cult' in the upcoming HBO doc

The teaser for the doc pointed out that the brand used social media campaigns that revolved heavily around 'teenage girls taking photos of each other'

Another woman claimed in the trailer that Brandy Melville 'only hired skinny white girls' for its stores, while using people of color in its factories

She also alleged that an employee that was 'bigger than the rest of them' had to stay behind the register 'so no one could see her body.'

In an bombshell Business Insider report months later, the publication claimed that if CEO Stephan Marsan 'thought a girl was too heavy or unattractive, he demanded that she be fired' and if 'a Brandy Melville store had too many Black employees, he had them replaced with white women.'

'If she was Black, if she was fat  he didn't want them in the store,' former senior vice president Luca Rotondo said.

The publication also alleged that there was 'a group text with Stephan and other top executives' that contained 'racist, sexist, and anti-Semitic jokes, including one photo in which Stephan edited his face on Adolf Hitler's body.'

One store owner named Franco Sorgi claimed to BI that Stephan 'called black people primitive' and once told him that 'he did not want black people to buy Brandy Melville clothing' because 'it would damage the brand's image.'

In addition, the company has been fiercely slammed online for its 'one size fits all' policy, which some believe can promote unhealthy beauty standards for young girls.

DailyMail.com has reached out for comment.
Queen Letizia of Spain visited Queen Sofia in hospital on Thursday evening - as she now enters her third day of surveillance.

The European royal, 51, joined her husband King Felipe VI on an evening visit to the Ruber International Clinic in Madrid.

Queen Sofia, 85, was admitted to hospital on Wednesday with a urinary tract infection and is remaining under surveillance. It is unclear when she will be discharged.

After leaving the hospital, King Felipe told press his mother was 'wanting to go out' but said he didn't 'know exactly' when that would be, according to Spanish paper La Vanguardia.

A few hours later Infanta Elena, Queen Sofia's sister, also visited her in hospital, as the Spanish royals have rallied around their queen mother in a united show of support.

Queen Letizia of Spain visited Queen Sofia in hospital on Thursday evening alongside her husband King Felipe

Earlier in the day, Letizia and King Felipe had attended the National Innovation and Design Awards in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria - and she was still wearing the same chic pink trouser suit for the hospital visit.

While Letizia was as flawlessly turned out as ever, she did appear tired after a lengthy day of engagements and a difficult 24 hours following Sofia's hospitalisation.

But she waved cheerily to cameras from the car and seemed in good spirits outside the hospital.

The visit shows the strength of her bond with her mother-in-law, who has taken her under her wing ever since she wed King Felipe in 2014 and the former journalist joined the Spanish royal family.

King Felipe, 56, has already visited his mother twice and was with her when she was first admitted on Wednesday.

He was later pictured waving from the passenger seat of his Lexus on a second trip on Wednesday afternoon.

He was quick to reassure concerned royal fans, telling media outside the hospital: 'She is very well, cheerful and eager to be discharged and return as soon as possible.'

Sofia has been the 'queen mother' of Spain since her husband King Juan Carlos abdicated the throne in favour of their son Felipe in 2014.

Since then she has kept up a busy schedule of public engagements alongside her son Felipe and his glamorous wife, Queen Letizia.

Queen Sofia of Spain, 85, was rushed to hospital on Wednesday with a urinary tract infection

Letizia was wearing the same pink jumpsuit she wore to the National Innovation and Design Awards in Las Palmas , Gran Canaria, earlier in the day

The royal couple were spotted entering the Ruber International Centre in Madrid at around 7.30pm on Thursday evening

While Letizia was as flawlessly turned out as ever, she did appear tired after a lengthy day of engagements and a difficult 24 hours following Sofia's hospitalisation

King Felipe has now visited his mother three times in hospital - and this is the first time he was joined by Letizia

After leaving the hospital, King Felipe told press his mother was 'wanting to go out' but said he didn't 'know exactly' when that would be

She has focused on her sponsoring activities, spending her time between La Zarzuela and the Marivent Palace in Palma de Mallorca in the summer months.

As recently as Monday, she attended Fernando Gomez-Acebo y Borbon's tribute but just the next day was rushed to hospital.

She also attended the wedding reception of Teresa Urquijo and Mayor of Madrid Luis Martinez-Almeida on Saturday, alongside a host of famous guests.

Sofia was joined by her husband Juan Carlos as well as their two daughters, Infanta Elena and Infanta Cristina. Elena's children, Victoria and Felipe, and Cristina's son Juan, were also present.

Queen Sofia had planned to travel to Huesca on Friday for an engagement at the city's food banks, but it has since been cancelled.

She is usually renowned for her good health and stays active, including using a walking machine in her room in La Zarzuela daily. This is her first time in hospital since she gave birth to King Felipe in 1968.

Spanish media revealed Sofia has a urinary tract infections, which, if left untreated, can lead to sepsis.

However, the Spanish royal is being carefully attended to at the hospital, which is often used by the royals and is where Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia were born.

Her son King Felipe appeared in good spirits after visiting his mother, reassuring royal fans that she is 'well' and 'eager'

Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Sofia and Princess Sofia of Spain leave the Beatnik restaurant on August 2022 in Mallorca

Born Princess Sophia of Greece and Denmark on November 2, 1938, at Tatoi Palace in Athens, Greece, she is the eldest daughter of King Paul of Greece and Frederica of Hanover.

A member of the Greek branch of the Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glucksburg dynasty, her great-great-grandmother is also Queen Victoria.

This made her a relative of both her friend the late Queen Elizabeth an Prince Philip.

Because Sofia's family were forced into exile during the Second World War, she spent part of her childhood in Egypt and South Africa.

She finished her education at the prestigious Schloss Salem boarding school in Southern Germany, and then studied childcare, music and archaeology in Athens.

Sofia also studied at Fitzwilliam College, a constituent college of the University of Cambridge.

A keen yachtswoman, the royal represented her home country of Greece as a reserve member of the Gold Medal-winning sailing team at the 1960 Summer Olympics alongside her brother Constantine (heir to the now deposed Greek monarchy).

Sofia met Infante Juan Carlos, her paternal third cousin, in 1954 on a cruise in the Greek Islands and again at the Duke of Kent's wedding in 1961.

Sofia has been known for being in good health for her entire life, and hasn't been to hospital since Felipe was born

Princess Cristina of Spain and Queen Sofia are pictured at the tribute service on Monday

They married less than a year later in Athens at the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Dionysius.

Upon their marriage, she converted from Greek Orthodoxy to Catholicism and changed her name from Sophia to Sofia.

Soon after, in 1973, the monarchy in Greece was abolished.

Together, she and Juan Carlos have three children: Infanta Elena, Infanta Cristina, and King Felipe.

Juan Carlos is judged to have been instrumental in Spain's peaceful transition to democracy and, with his wife Queen Sofia, then enjoyed years of admiration.

The couple had a close relationship with Queen Elizabeth and the British Royal Family - Prince Charles, Princess Diana and their two sons Princes William and Harry would often spend holidays at the summer palace in Majorca.

Besides accompanying her husband on official visits and occasions, Sofia also undertook solo engagements.

She is executive president of the Queen Sofia Foundation, and is honorary president of the Royal Board on Education and Care of Handicapped Persons of Spain, as well as the Spanish Foundation for Aid for Drug Addicts.

Queen Letizia of Spain and Queen Sofia at the Marivent Palace in Palma de Mallorca in August 2023

The 1962 wedding of Prince Juan Carlos and Princess Sofia of Greece and Denmark in Athens

Prince Juan Carlos of Spain with his fiancee Princess Sofia of Greece after the announcement of their engagement

As Queen, Sofia never publicly commented on political issues.

When her only son Felipe, then known as Prince of Asturias, announced his engagement to Letizia Ortiz in November 2003, Sofia took the former journalist and news presenter under her wing.

Letizia paid tribute to her future mother-in-law during her first speech since becoming engaged.

She said: 'From now on, and more and more, I am going to integrate fully in this new life with the responsibilities that come with it and with the support and affection of the King and Queen and the priceless example of the queen.'

During the Easter service in 2018, there appeared to be a tense moment between Letizia and Sofia.

The Spanish royals with their children Cristina, Felipe and Elena on holiday at the Miravent Palace in Palma de Mallorca in 1976

The former newsreader was seen standing in front of Sofia and after a brief exchange appearing to try and take the arm of her eldest daughter, who then shoves both her mother and grandmother's hands aside.

Letizia's husband King Felipe VI then stepped in as his 80-year-old father looked on nonplussed.

Marie Chantal of Greece, who is married to Crown Prince Pavlos - King Felipe's cousin - has since weighed in, saying on Twitter: 'No grandmother deserves that type of treatment! Wow shes shown her true colours.'

But Letizia and Sofia's bond is now clearly stronger than ever - as Letizia was quick to rush to her side in hospital.

In June 2014, Juan Carlos abdicated in favour of his son and Felipe and Letizia became King and Queen of Spain. For all his early popularity, Juan Carlos has been serially unfaithful and has been accused of multiple charges of corruption.

That said, three investigations against the former King were eventually dropped and he has denied any wrong doing.
The stand-up comedian behind chilling new Netflix series Baby Reindeer, which is based on his own experiences of being stalked, says he still finds it hard to trust people and has had 'every therapy going'.

Richard Gadd, whose seven-part Netflix series is based on his stand-up show of the same name about being stalked, was targeted by the woman for six years, until police finally intervened.

The actor and comedian was subjected to a campaign of obsession by the woman, known as Martha, that manifested in 41,071 emails, 744 tweets, 106 pages of letters and a staggering 350 hours of voicemail.

The 34-year-old from Fife, Scotland, won a Fringe award in 2019 for Baby Reindeer, the pet name his stalker, known as 'Martha', gave him - and says performing a version of what happened to him has enabled him to have 'ownership' of the trauma.

A scene from Baby Reindeer, released on Netflix this week; the psychological thriller follows struggling comedian Donny Dunn, played by the show's writer Richard Gadd, and his delicate relationship with a crazed fan named Martha (Jessica Gunning)

In real-life, Gadd, left, 34, was stalked for six years by a female stalker, who drove a 'freight train' through his life, he says. Right: His award-winning stand-up show, based on some of his own experiences of stalking, is now a Netflix series

The psychological thriller released this week follows struggling comedian Donny Dunn, played by Gadd, and his delicate relationship with crazed fan Martha (Jessica Gunning).

It documents the terrifying lengths a crazed fan will go to in order to get closer to her obsession - and includes her turning up at his gigs, workplace and bombarding him with messages.

This week, Gadd told The Times that his own years of being stalked has left him with something 'like PTSD'. For the Netflix role, he lost weight to match his 10-and-a-half stone 'neurotic' self at the height of his own stalking nightmare.

Gadd says he's currently single and 'is more cautious' of people because of the campaign of terror that Martha inflicted, saying: 'It takes me a long time to trust them. Before, I entered situations with such abandonment and I got burnt.'

He says it was 'years' before the police eventually took his complaints seriously, something which prolonged the agony for everyone involved including his relatives.

The police told him at the time that unless his stalker became physically violent, there was little they could do to resolve the issue.

Gadd plays the comedian being stalked; in real life, his own stalker sent him 41,071 emails, 744 tweets, 106 pages of letters and a staggering 350 hours of voicemail over a six year period

Martha in Baby Reindeer follows her obsession to his gigs, workplace and sends thousands of messages - he says performing a version of his own stalking experiences has proved cathartic

The seven-part series sees Martha largely using technology to stalk and constrain her victim

Gadd first met his stalker after he offered 'a crying stranger a cup of tea' when she came into the bar where he worked.

The simple gesture sparked a stalking episode that saw him regularly followed at home and work, and tracked on Facebook using three fake accounts.

He told The Times: 'At first everyone at the pub thought it was funny that I had an admirer. Then she started to invade my life, following me, turning up at my gigs, waiting outside my house, sending thousands of voicemails and emails.'

The actor and comedian, pictured in 2019, says the police refused to take his claims that he was being stalked despite 'Martha' frequently appearing at his home

Speaking to the Telegraph in 2019 about the one-man show that he wrote after the trauma, which is currently on at London's Bush theatre, he said: 'It was debilitating beyond belief.

'I'd listen to her voicemails and just feel my eyes welling up. They were tears of frustration. Proper brain-heavy stress.'

Gadd says that the woman drove a 'freight train' through his ability to have normal life and relationships but that he portrays her in the show as not evil but severely affected by mental health problems.

The Netflix series sees Martha given a prison sentence for her offences but Gadd hasn't divulged the fate of his own stalker, except to say the issue has been resolved and he never wanted to 'throw someone who was that level of mentally unwell in prison.'

Baby Reindeer is out now on Netflix
JK Rowling's women's rights crusade has lost her the support of many stars whose careers were launched thanks to her Harry Potter franchise - including Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe.

Her years-long campaign for what she labels 'sex-based rights' has seen the former Potter actors distance themselves from the multimillionaire writer - and directly express support for transgender rights.

The publication of the Cass Review, which concluded that gender services for children were not making decisions based on backed medical evidence, prompted her to suggest she was unlikely to forgive stars such as Radcliffe and Watson for their views.

Radcliffe, who plays the famous boy wizard in the franchise, has previously apologised to those who he said may feel as though their enjoyment of the Harry Potter series had been 'tarnished or diminished' due to Rowling's stance.

Watson has also repeatedly spoken out in favour of trans rights, both before and after the author's views came to light. Here, FEMAIL looks at Rowling's strained relationship with the former child stars and how it has diminished over the years.

JK Rowling's (pictured) women's rights crusade has lost her the support of many stars whose careers were launched thanks to her Harry Potter franchise - including Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe

Rowling was first criticised in 2018 after she liked a tweet describing trans women as 'men in dresses'. Her spokesperson at the time said the like was a 'mistake', calling it a 'clumsy middle-aged moment'.

But the author has since embarked on a campaign seeking to protect what she describes as women's rights, fuelled by her own experiences of domestic abuse.

From repeatedly deliberately 'misgendering' trans women in posts on social media, to opposing legislation in Scotland that sought to make it easier for trans people to change their legal gender, the 58-year-old has made her thoughts known over the years.

However, she has denied accusations she is transphobic, and police said recent tweets in which she misgendered trans women did not fall foul of Scotland's new hate crime laws, which outlaw 'stirring up' hate against transgender people.

June 2020 - Rowling's views became explicit and Radcliffe and Watson spoke out

The publication of the Cass Review prompted Rowling to suggest she was unlikely to forgive stars such as Daniel Radcliffe (pictured left) and Emma Watson (pictured right) for their views

Rowling's views have seen her publicly clash with Harry Potter stars. Pictured, the author with Rupert Grint, Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe in 2009

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson pictured in one of the Harry Potter films

Things came to a head with the young actors of the wizarding world in June 2020 when Rowling made her views on the subject explicit and published a lengthy 3,600-word statement where she said her stance on trans rights was drawn from her experiences of abuse and sexual assault.

She also retweeted an article that said 'people who menstruate', penning: 'People who menstruate.' Im sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?'

Then, she followed up the tweet with another, which read: 'If sex isnt real, theres no same-sex attraction. If sex isnt real, the lived reality of women globally is erased.

'I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It isnt hate to speak the truth.'

The slew of comments from the author prompted national outrage from activists and Harry Potter fans alike - including some of the actors who starred in the franchise.

Radcliffe was the first of the cast to speak out against her, by writing a blog for LGBTQ+ charity The Trevor Project, in which he explicitly said: 'Transgender women are women.'

He added: 'Any statement to the contrary erases the identity and dignity of transgender people and goes against all advice given by professional health care associations who have far more expertise on this subject matter than either Jo (Rowling) or I.'

The 34-year-old actor also apologised to fans by saying: 'To all the people who now feel that their experience of the books has been tarnished or diminished, I am deeply sorry for the pain these comments have caused you.'

Watson has repeatedly spoken out in favour of trans rights both before (top) and after (bottom) Rowling's comments in June 2020

Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, was quick to back up her fellow cast member and speak out against Rowling's stance.

She took to X (formerly Twitter), to write: 'Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they arent who they say they are.

'I want my trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you, and love you for who you are.'

The 33-year-old had also previously shared an image of herself in a t-shirt reading: 'Trans rights are human rights.'

March 2022 - Emma Watson shouted out 'all witches' at the BAFTAs

Emma Watson appeared to make a subtle dig against author JK Rowling during the 2022 BAFTA Film Awards

In March 2022, Watson made a comment which many people interpreted to be a dig at JK Rowling and her views.

She took to the stage to present the award for Best Outstanding British Film, when she was introduced by host Rebel Wilson.

Rebel said: 'Here to present the next award is Emma Watson. She calls herself a feminist, but we all know she's a witch.' Emma then emphasised: 'I'm here for ALL the witches!'

Viewers at home saw the comment as a jibe at the Harry Potter creator, with one writing: ''I'm here for all the women'. Sly 'lil dig at JK Rowling there, Emma Watson?'

Another echoed: 'Live for Emma Watson throwing subtle shade at JK Rowling at the #BAFTAs #LGBWithTheT #JKDoesntSpeakForMe'.

A third chimed in to add: 'Was that a jibe by Emma Watson at JK Rowling? what a QUEEEEENNN'.

2023 - Daniel Radcliffe works with The Trevor Project

Daniel Radcliffe also continued to showcase his support for the transgender community, most notably working with The Trevor Project.

In 2023 he moderated the first episode of 'The Sharing Space,' a video series that consisted of a roundtable discussion with six trans and non-binary children organised by the charity.

Radcliffe said: 'There are also people who also have a slightly condescending but well-meaning attitude of, 'people are young... and it is a huge decision.'

He asked the group of trans youths: 'I would love to hear from all of you about why we can trust kids to tell us who they are.'

He added that there are 'some people in the world who are not trying to engage in this conversation in any kind of good faith'.

The actor said: 'I think a lot of the time it's just because people don't know a young trans person so there's just this theoretical idea about this in their head.'

The episode was released on Friday 31 March last year - Transgender Day of Visibility.

April 2024 - Rowling suggests she will not forgive Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson

In a response to someone claiming Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson would be 'safe in the knowledge that you will forgive them' for clashing with her on the topic, the Harry Potter author wrote 'not safe'

This month, The Cass Review, written by Dr Hilary Cass, found that teenagers in Britain have been allowed to change their gender based on 'remarkably weak evidence'.

In her report, Dr Cass warned that there was a 'lack of high-quality research' on the effects of giving children puberty blockers and hormones and said that the toxicity in the debate over the issue has become 'exceptional'.

Following the review, JK Rowling took to social media to suggest she won't forgive Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson for their views.

Writing on X after the report was published, Rowling said it was a 'watershed' moment and that it 'lays bare the tragedy' of allowing children to transition.

When someone claimed that Radcliffe and Watson owe her 'a very public apology... safe in the knowledge that you will forgive them', Rowling responded by saying: 'Not safe, I'm afraid.'

She added: 'Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces.'
An entrepreneur who cried after she was brutally rejected on Dragons' Den has revealed she is now set to make millions from her business.

Nicola Wood, from Bury in Greater Manchester, appeared on the BBC show in 2017 with her hair product business and was reduced to tears when the panel said her idea was 'appalling'.

The 52-year-old is the owner of Hair Made Easi and, during her pitch to the dragons, asked for an 80,000 investment in return for a 25% stake in her business.

After admitting that she was making a net loss of 14,000 and that half the investment would be used to buy out her business partner, she failed to gain a coveted offer from the panel.

Fast forward seven years later, however, and Nicola's business is thriving. She has revealed she is set to turnover 1million this year, while her products are used in 25,000 salons throughout the UK.

Nicola Wood from Bury says she cried when she was rejected on Dragons' Den but is now set to turnover 1million. Pictured on her way to Chicago

Dragon Peter Jones (pictured) told Nicola her idea was 'appalling' when she appeared on the show in 2017

In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, she said: 'Dragons' Den was an amazing experience, even though some of the comments were a bit harsh really, I cried when I came out of there.

'I didn't have a clue about business back then so it taught me so much, and it gave me a fire in my belly to make it work because obviously I didn't get any investment, but I'm quite stubborn.'

During her appearance on the show in 2017, Nicola failed to impress with her 'Easi-Weft' hair extension holder, which she says makes it easier to style hair.

But her pitch didn't fly with the Dragons as she revealed half of the 80,000 investment would be used to buy out her other business partner.

Peter Jones told her he couldn't invest, saying: 'I don't think that's good Nicola, I think that's appalling actually.'

A speechless and visibly gutted Nicola just said: 'Do you really?'

The mother-of-two revealed she cried after the brutal feedback but tried to stay positive, telling the panel: 'I'll just crack on and make it an amazing success'.

Her words have now come true as she now sells more than 40 different products in more than 25,000 salons throughout the UK.

Nicola failed to win the panel over and didn't get the 80,000 investment she was asking for

At the time, Nicola was left almost speechless at the brutal rejection and was visibly upset

Jenny Campbell (left) and Touker Sulleyman (right) also said they were 'out' - but Nicola is now glad they didn't invest

Nicola added: 'If I saw Peter Jones today, I'd probably shake his hand and say thank you very much for NOT investing. If they had invested I don't think I'd be here now. I've achieved everything since without any external investment.'

While she usually reinvests any profits back into the business, this year she managed her first proper splurge on a first-class trip to Chicago.

Even at the time the show aired, viewer reaction was incredibly positive and Nicola said her website crashed due to insane demand.

As well as Easi-Weft, the entrepeneur sells 'Easi-Bonds' - a tool that helps to remove hair extension tape, and XL luxury hair wrap towels to dry hair more efficiently.

Nicola, who lives with her husband Gary and has two sons aged 25 and 28, began her love for hair and beauty at a young age as she got a part-time job in a salon at just 13 years old.

She has now worked in salons for 35 years and is an expert in how to make styling easier for hairdressers.

Nicola, pictured at an International Women's Day event, says her products are now stocked in 25,000 salons across the UK

During her appearance on the show in 2017, Nicola failed to impress with her 'Easi-Weft' hair extension holder

Nicola is not the only business owner to have found success despite being failing to gain the Dragons' sought-after investments.

Other famous businesses that were rejected by the Dragons but went on to make millions include Trunki, the children's suitcase that made a 7million fortune.

Meanwhile James Watt's BrewDog pub chain is worth a whopping 1.8billion.

When they appeared on the show in 2009, they were seeking an 100,000 investment for 20 per cent of the business - and the returns would have seen the unlucky Dragons rake in millions.

Tangle Teezers are a staple product in drugstores but not a single Dragon was interested when hairdresser Shaun Pulfrey went on the show in 2007.
A British rapper has opened up about living with paranoid schizophrenia and being 'sectioned' for the first time.

Grime rapper and mental health advocate Shocka, 35, from Tottenham, appeared on the Hurt to Healing podcast where he discussed struggling with mental health and manic depression.

In a snippet shared to Instagram, he candidly recalled a moment in 2011 when he 'exploded', leading his mother to call a Nigerian pastor to 'pray' away the incident.

An uncle who witnessed the episode believed his nephew was having a 'breakdown' and instead called the ambulance, who would go on to section the rapper the same day.

In another video, the rapper - real name Kenneth Erhahon - said schizophrenia was one of the 'most frightening things' he has ever experienced.

Rapper Shocka has opened up about living with paranoid schizophrenia and being 'sectioned' for the first time (pictured: Shocka on the the Hurt to Healing podcast)

Recalling the first time he was sectioned - which means being kept in hospital under the Mental Health Act - he said: 'It was 2011, it was December. I remember because I got sectioned twice in December...

'I remember I came home and I just exploded. I don't know what I was trying to say to my mum but I was trying to say something to her but the words weren't coming out.

'My mum was realising that something's wrong. She knew something was wrong because we don't talk. So for me to come to her and be like babbling stuff...'

The rapper, who is of Nigerian descent, spoke of mental health being a taboo subject in 'African' culture. He then shared his mother's reaction to the schizophrenic episode.

'And I remember like obviously the African culture - her first thought was "let me call a pastor". So she called a pastor from Nigeria and I remember him praying to me on the phone line... I still felt the same.

'And then luckily I had an uncle - he was a doctor. So he came downstairs saw me and he was like "oh your son is having a breakdown we need to call the ambulance". They called the ambulance and that's how I got sectioned for the first time.'

The Grime rapper and mental health advocate, 35, from Tottenham, revealed that schizophrenia was one of the 'most frightening things' he has ever experienced

The rapper is pictured here in 2010 before he was sectioned for the first time. In the caption he recalled being 'embarrassed' at the time, however he now sees the image as 'evidence' of his 'testimony'

The Grime rapper - who last year penned his first autobiography A Section Of My Life - has also opened up about living with schizophrenia.

Speaking in a separate video, he said: 'It is one of the most frightening things - that out of all of them - out of all like the anxiety, depression, bipolar.

'When you're going through that - like a schizophrenic episode - I can't begin to explain it.

'It's like I tried to explain it on another interview. It's like putting on VR [virtual reality] glasses and the VR glasses that you've put on are like all your worst fears.

'But you're in that world by yourself. Everyone else looking at you thinks "what's he getting paranoid [about]? I can't see what he's [seeing]. It's like... it's indescribable'.

Born Kenneth Erhahon, the rapper and influencer was born and raised in Broadwater Farm in Tottenham, North London.

The rapper, who is of Nigerian descent, spoke of mental health being a taboo subject in 'African' culture and recounted the moment his mother 'prayed' to a pastor about his condition

Earlier this year, he took to Instagram to reveal that his father had passed on, while also sharing that he had recently lost his mother.

Shocka released his first mixtape Beast on the Loose in 2008, of which its success would later see him link up with fellow rappers Vertex and Double S to form Grime collective, Marvell.

Two years later the group were named as the BBC's 'Hot for 2010' alongside household names Tinie Tempah, Skepta and Chip.

However the group's success was short lived and the sudden loss of Shocka's once-promising music career would eventually lead to a deterioration in his mental health.

Years later he returned to the scene with new music, but he is perhaps best known today for his advocacy regarding mental health.
Bright colours, cut-out dresses, and daring headwear can only mean one thing - Ladies Day is back at Aintree.

Donning their finest ensembles, racegoers put their best feet forward and stepped out during the brisk early morning weather to parade their outfits ahead of the second day of events on Friday.

While the Liverpool festival is all about horse racing, today is the day fans will take part in a competition to win the coveted cash prize after being crowned best dressed. But getting glam for the yearly event is a costly affair, with hair salons and tanning shops full to the brim since the early hours of this morning.

A hair extensions technician who works during the Grand National revealed that fashion fans will spend upwards of 500 on their hair - and 'thousands' on finding the perfect outfit.

Michelle, who works at Dianne Marshall Hair Extensions in Liverpool, told LBC News that demand is 'very, very high' and the preparation often begins months in advance.

Donning their finest ensembles, racegoers put their best feet forward and stepped out during the brisk early morning weather to parade their outfits ahead of the second day of events

Style Awards winner Ainsley Briscoe on Ladies day at Aintree Racecourse today

Style Awards joint winner Claire Illingworth on Ladies day at Aintree Racecourse

She revealed that the lead-up involves: 'Making sure that the girls are in, ready for the day so they can go back, get their makeup done and then start the day on Ladies Day.'

The extensionist explained: 'Depending on what they go for, extensions can start anywhere from 300 up to 500, and that's just the hair.

'Then obviously there's the outfits. People will spend anything from 200 up to the thousands for outfits.'

Meanwhile, Hannah, the owner of House of Darlins, Liverpool's largest beauty salon, told the radio station: 'You are getting everything done - your nails, your hair, your tan, your makeup, and your new dress.

'I just think it's Liverpool's one day of the year where you can go as extra as you want to go and you can push the boat out as much as you want to - and it's fine, no one can say anything because it's the races!'

The beauty expert revealed to her Instagram followers that she had set her alarm for 3:50am, writing: 'Aintree races but you work in the beauty industry'.

And it's not just makeup and hair - Madison, who owns The Tanning Girl salon, said: 'I do my clients one layer. I'm not all about the orange. I think that is a big stereotype.

'No one is orange anymore. The tans have come into fashion again and the formulas are different. Everyone just loves a nice, natural, golden brown colour.'

Getting glam for the yearly event is a costly affair, with hair salons and tanning shops full to the brim since the early hours of this morning

While the Liverpool festival is all about horse racing, today is the day racing fans will take part in a competition to win the coveted cash prize after being crowned best dressed

One reveller wanted to stand out and went for a hot pink and yellow ensemble with a matching clutch bag

Dressed in an impressive floral mesh matching trouser suit, a racegoer is pictured typing on her phone

While Cheltenham is all about the tweedy country looks, Aintree is its more glamorous cousin - and the outfits did not disappoint, with many opting for Barbie-inspired looks for the big day out.

The earliest arrivals at the racecourse brought bright shades and fabulous headwear, but they had to clutch onto their large fascinators as they battled blustery winds in Liverpool.

As well as enjoying the racing, revellers will no doubt get into the party spirit with plenty of champagne to go around.

The Grand National on Saturday, known as the People's Race, draws national attention in a way that perhaps no other horse race is able to do.

Every year, millions of people gather at Aintree for the steeplechases, which spans 4 miles, 7 furlongs and 74 yards, making it the longest horse race in Britain even though it used to be around one and a half furlongs longer.

Style Awards winner in the Sustainable Category - Sally Ann Morgan on Ladies day at Aintree Racecourse

Racegoers dancing on day two of the 2024 Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree Racecourse

The Grand National on Saturday, known as the People's Race, draws national attention in a way that perhaps no other horse race is able to do

Every year, millions of people gather at Aintree for the steeplechases, which spans 4 miles, 7 furlongs and 74 yards, making it the longest horse race in Britain

Racegoers on day two of the 2024 Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree Racecourse

While Cheltenham is all about the tweedy country looks, Aintree is its more glamorous cousin

Racegoers at the end of day two of the 2024 Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree Racecourse

The decision to shorten the race slightly was done to move the start line away from the grandstands in order to help prevent false starts and make the first jump safer as jockeys and horses would reach it slower.

It comes just after the second day of the Cheltenham Festival was renamed 'Style Wednesday' and instead involved a fashion competition for both men and women.

Day two of the prestigious four-day event is known for attracting a host of royals and celebrities alike as they show off their sartorial prowess while enjoying a day out at the races in Gloucestershire.

Some excited racegoers even start planning their outfits for the popular occasion six or so months in advance.
China supports full UN membership for Palestine: FM spokesperson

Xinhua) 10:58, April 12, 2024

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- China supports full UN membership for Palestine, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday.

Mao made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked about China's position on UN membership for Palestine.

It is reported that recently Palestine formally requested the UN Security Council to reconsider its application for full UN membership submitted in 2011. The Council met on April 8 and referred the application to the Committee of Admission of New Members for its deliberation. The United States said that prior to a wider agreement between Palestine and Israel, it will continue opposing Palestine's full UN membership.

Mao said the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the severe humanitarian crisis it has caused are yet another reminder that the only way to end the vicious cycle of Palestinian-Israeli conflicts is to fully implement the two-State solution, establish an independent state of Palestine and redress the historical injustice long suffered by the Palestinians.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The Houston ISD Board of Managers held a monthly meeting April 11, 2024, at Hattie Mae White Educational Center in Houston. In this file photo from March 21, 2024, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles, right, listens to speakers alongside Angela Lemond Flowers, secretary of the board. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Without any public discussion, Houston Independent School District's appointed board of managers voted Thursday to formally authorize the administration to explore a 2024 bond election.

"Too many HISD students are learning in facilities that, quite simply, are not acceptable," appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said in a prepared statement after the board meeting. "Our kids need and deserve better, and we look forward to talking to the broader HISD community about the investments we can make to provide all our students with safe, healthy and effective learning environments."

Miles can now explore putting together a multibillion-dollar bond package after the vote to allow the district to use proceeds from a future bond election to reimburse the district's general fund for money it uses to put the bond together. Bond proceeds would otherwise be spent to pay for upgrades to school facilities and infrastructure.

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Thursday's meeting featured 190 registered speakers, many of whom began or ended their comments with "no trust, no bond." The slogan has become something of a rallying cry for critics of Miles' administration who see the bond election, which would appear on the November ballot, as one of the few ways they can influence the direction of the district under state-appointed leadership.

The board also approved shifting the popular Helms and Wharton dual-language schools to application-only enrollment, maintaining their schoolwide Spanish immersion models but keeping Heights and Montrose families who were zoned to those campuses from being able to automatically enroll as they did in the past. HISD leaders said they would give some preference to neighborhood families, but they did not provide details.

The board balked at a proposal to renew a "Confucius Institute" at HISD in partnership with a Chinese university, voting unanimously to table the measure until next month when members could receive more information about the proposal. Thursday's vote marks a rare instance in which the board of managers has collectively voted anything other than "yes" on an item since they were appointed to their positions alongside Miles in June.

MORE ON HISD: Mike Miles says HISD may backtrack on plan to add English-only track at two popular immersion schools

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Several Wharton and Helms parents spoke out about the proposal ahead of the board vote.

The measure to designate Helms and Wharton as "separate and unique schools" landed on the board's agenda after the district previously introduced English-only prekindergarten tracks at those campuses as part of its efforts to expand early education offerings across the city, saying the move was necessary to accommodate families zoned to those schools.

Parents immediately began to push back on the English-only tracks, arguing that they would create separation among students and dilute the schools' unique Spanish-language immersion models, which integrate native English and Spanish speakers together in the same classroom. While HISD offers dual-language options at 80 of its 274 campuses, the majority operate on separate tracks from the rest of their schools and serve students whose first language is not English.

Some parents at Thursday's meeting thanked district leaders for designating Helms and Wharton as "separate and unique," while others bemoaned the loss of zoned seats.

"Of the utmost importance to me is maintaining the integrity of Wharton's excellent dual-language program, and making the opportunity equally available to students across the district," said Genesis Draper, a Wharton parent, acknowledging it was a "bittersweet step forward" for the school community.

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Beth Shook, another speaker, said her family moved to Montrose specifically so her 1-year-old could enroll at Wharton and receive a dual-language education. She worried that denying access to zoned families would harm Montrose residents who planned to attend.

"We need more of these programs. I agree with the community and board that an English-only track should not be added and that the culture at Wharton should be preserved, but the neighborhood is part of that," Shook said. "If Wharton loses its zoning with no accommodations for young families like mine who planned to be a part of the Wharton community, both the neighborhood and school will suffer."

After returning from closed session, the board voted 8-1 in favor of approving the "separate and unique" designation for both schools, with board member Cassandra Auzenne Bandy providing the lone vote against. The board also voted to waive a one-year planning requirement for the transition, allowing the designation to take effect immediately, and required the superintendent to gather community feedback and put together an implementation strategy for affected families within 60 days.

"This isn't an easy discussion, we heard from different groups. ... And we'll make sure we're engaging the community," said board member Rolando Martinez.

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The board engaged in far more discussion on the matter of the Confucius Institute  a once-popular educational initiative of the Chinese government that has fallen out of favor in the United States under pressure from conservative critics who accused it of functioning as a front for the Chinese Communist Party.

Chief Academic Officer Kristin Hole said the partnership with the Southwest University of Political Science and Law in Chongqing, China, is simply a renewal of a previous agreement the district has had for a Confucius Institute with the College Board since 2016, and it would allow HISD to access grant funding to continue Chinese language and cultural education at 11 HISD campuses.

Board members, however, felt the district left too many questions unanswered about the partnership to move forward with immediate approval.

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"My concern is that this was not all provided in advance, because if it's confusing for people on the board, for me, it's confusing for our community," said board member Michelle Cruz Arnold.
A 100-year-old Auschwitz survivor has emotionally declared the Nazis 'did not win' as she celebrates becoming a great-great grandmother.

Lily Ebert, who was recognised for her services to Holocaust education and made an MBE on the New Year Honours list last year, has gone from 'near-death at Auschwitz to creating five generations of Jewish life'.

Her great-grandson, 20-year-old Dov Forman, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share an emotional picture of Lily with her daughters and grandchildren.

The wholesome snaps, which have already racked up over 20,000 likes, showed Lily beaming as she held her newborn great-great grandchild.

The caption read: 'This week, my great-grandma, Lily Ebert, a 100-year-old Auschwitz survivor, became a great-great-grandma.

100-year-old Auschwitz survivor Lily Ebert, becomes a great-great-grandma and revealed the 'Nazis did not win'

''I never expected to survive the Holocaust. Now I have five beautiful generations. The Nazis did not win!'' From near-death at Auschwitz to five generations of Jewish life.'

Many rushed to the comments to congratulate Lily on the very special family moment.

One person said: 'Wonderful. Congratulations to Lily, to her little great-great grandchild and to the proud parents. The joy on her face is uplifting.

Another said: 'What an uplifting story! Blessings to the remarkable Lily Ebert and all generations of her family.'

Someone else wrote: 'Actual tears seeing this. Please tell your great grandmother her smile gives us hope. Shabbat shalom.'

A fourth wrote: 'This is wonderful!!! the most beautiful story I've read in the last months. It brings hope, and hope is what we most need in this dark hours. Mazal Tov to grandma Lily, may God grant her many more years with good health ve ahava.'

Lily, who became a founding member of the UK's Holocaust Survivor Centre, and her grandson have accrued billions of views on TikTok in an effort to educate the younger generation on the Holocaust.

After receiving her MBE at Windsor Castle she said: 'Not so long ago, there were people who wanted to kill me for my religion, and today I received this honour. Words cannot explain how much this means to me.

Lily Ebert, who was recognised for her services to Holocaust education and made an MBE on the New Year Honours list last year, went from near-death at Auschwitz to creating five generations of Jewish life

Her great-grandson, 20-year-old Dov Forman, took to X, formerly known as Twitter , to share an emotional picture of Lily with her daughters and grandchildren

'I promised myself that if I survived, then I would tell the whole world what had happened to us in Auschwitz - that there were people killed for no other reason than their beliefs, because we were believed not to be worthy of life.'

She said that she has always tried to be a positive force in the world and encourage others to 'appreciate our differences and learn from each other, and be kind to everyone.

'Something terrible like that should never, ever happen again. As long as I am alive I will teach the world to be tolerant', she added.

She also spoke about the importance of educating people through social media, in particular TikTok.

'I find (educating people through TikTok) very important because the youngsters really want to learn and they should learn,' she said. 'I don't speak only what I learn - I went through it.'

Lily was 20-years-old when she and her family were taken to Auschwitz on one of the last trains carrying Hungarian Jews to the camp in 1944, enduring months at Birkenau, before being transported to Altenburg, a sub-camp of Buchenwald.

Many rushed to the comments to congratulate Lily on the very special family moment

Her parents and some of her siblings were condemned to death in the gas chamber after encountering the infamous Josef Mengele, notorious for his experiments on those in the camp, while the remaining family members were put to work.

After being freed from Auschwitz, 78 years ago, Ms Ebert spent a year in Switzerland before moving in 1946 to Israel, then under British rule in Palestine.

She migrated to the UK in 1967 with her husband, Samuel, and began a life of educating the world about the horrors of the Holocaust.

Ms Ebert is now based in north London, and is a mother of three, a grandmother of 10, and became a great-grandmother for the 36th time in 2022.

The King wrote a foreword for her book, Lily's Promise, as Ms Ebert spoke about her appreciation for the monarch whom she has met on a series of occasions, including at one of his Christmas parties.

'He is a very special human being,' Ms Ebert said of Charles. 'It must be a very difficult job and he does it with such a love and understanding, that I thank him very much. I never thought that I would have the opportunity to thank him personally.'

She added that news of her MBE arrived via a letter and that the recognition is 'very special'.

'People are still here in this world and (are showing) their respect - what we (should) try to have for the whole community.'

Lily (pictured) was recognised for her services to Holocaust education at Windsor Castle last year after being included in the New Year Honours list - the first overseen by King Charles since his ascension to the throne

With the great-grandmother while she accepted the award was her great-grandson, 20-year-old Dov Forman (pictured)

Lily pictured with her siblings for the last time: This picture taken in 1943 shows siblings (L-R) Piri, Berta, Imi, Lily and Rene (another brother, Bela, is not pictured)

King Charles (then Prince of Wales) speaks with Lily Ebert at an exhibition of Seven Portraits: Surviving the Holocaust, which were commissioned by Charles to pay tribute to Holocaust survivors, at The Queens Gallery, Buckingham Palace on January 24, 2022

Mr Forman told the PA news agency that it was 'humbling' to witness his grandmother become an MBE.

'It is so humbling to be here today, together with four generations of my great-grandmother's family as she accepted her MBE.

'It was very moving to see the tears rolling down her face as she told the King that she never expected to survive the Holocaust, let alone receive an honour from the King of England.'

He added that the following they have gained on TikTok is partly to 'take a torch and pass it to others'.

'When you listen to a Holocaust survivor, when you listen to a witness, you become a witness,' Mr Forman told PA. 'And so every single person that hears our story on TiKTok... they learn the lessons of the past.

'So I'm incredibly honoured and humbled to have helped my great-grandmother go viral and provided her with a platform and every single day we get thousands of comments from across the world, from countries even where they are banned from learning and teaching about the Holocaust.'

Mr Forman spoke about his time visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial site for the first time on January 19.

'I really tried to imagine my great-grandmother being there, in the same place that I was then standing... I was not able to comprehend how she survived such an experience,' he said.

'We must not hesitate to place responsibility upon the perpetrators who had anything to do with enabling the terrors that befell those like my great grandmother... Having said that, this is not the biggest risk that faces us today.

'Our biggest concern regards the third category of ordinary people within the scope of those involved in the Holocaust: the bystanders.

'We cannot allow ourselves to become bystanders - my work with my great-grandmother, and this trip (Auschwitz) have ingrained in me that it is up to us, those of the more recent generations, my generation, to make sure that we do not stand idly by as long as there is hatred in this world.'
Early one morning last June, Ellie Baxter answered a knock at the door of the home she shared with her partner and one-year-old son to find two police officers on the doorstep. Dozens of other officers and police vans lined the street outside.

'It was around 7am,' she recalls. 'I was half-dressed, six months pregnant. They came into the house and said they were arresting me on suspicion of the murder of Carol and Stephen Baxter, at which point I pretty much had a complete breakdown.'

No wonder. Carol, 64 and Stephen, 61, were her parents, and two months earlier, on Easter Sunday, Ellie had discovered their bodies after calling round to the 1 million family home in West Mersea, Essex.

Finding them stone dead and sitting bolt upright in their favourite chairs in the conservatory, the shock had been so immense that 23-year-old Ellie feared she had had a miscarriage.

Yet far worse was to come: only after she'd been arrested herself did a devastated Ellie discover that toxicology tests had found the powerful prescription opioid fentanyl in her parents' systems  placing her and her partner Marcus under suspicion of planning their deaths.

Stephen Baxter and his wife Carol, who were poisoned with fentanyl in West Mersea in Essex

In fact, the culprit was a 34-year-old man called Luke D'Wit, who had worked for the couple for nearly a decade, undertaking IT work for the Baxters' successful fitted shower mat firm, Cazsplash Ltd. In the process, he won over the trust of his kindly and wealthy employers.

A search of his home revealed an ample supply of fentanyl alongside a makeshift pestle and mortar, while police subsequently discovered D'Wit had created a fake will the day after the Baxters were found dead, making him a director of the company.

It is one of many lies a heartbroken Ellie and her older brother Harry, 26, have since discovered were concocted by a man who described himself to the police as 'like a son' to his former employers.

They now know that for at least two years prior to her death, D'Wit had been slowly poisoning Carol with an overdose of her prescription medication, leaving her with distressing symptoms akin to Parkinson's disease. He had also created a vast web of fake online identities  among them doctors and fake 'patients'  to persuade her she was being properly cared for.

'Mum lost her freedom, her will, her ability to function due to her illness  an illness no one could help with or understand because it was contrived by Luke D'Wit,' says Ellie now, talking for the first time following D'Wit's double murder conviction last month at Chelmsford Crown Court.

'Mum felt so alone and lost and there was nothing I could do other than give her my shoulder to cry on and cuddle her.

'Luke was so manipulative that he hacked his way into our lives and schemed and planned my parents' demise when they had done nothing but show kindness to him.'

Luke D'Wit, an IT worker, is serving a minimum tariff of 37 years for the murders. The judge said he believed he was motivated by a desire to control

And for what? To this day Ellie and Harry do not really know. While D'Wit had altered their parents' will in order to make him the new company director, it was by then in debt and any ultimate financial benefit was negligible.

Sentencing D'Wit, judge Mr Justice Lavender said he believed D'Wit was motivated by a desire to control.

'Deciding whether another person lives or dies is the ultimate form of control,' he said.

Could this have been his motive? Chillingly, Ellie today reveals that samples of her own hair have been sent off for testing to see if D'Wit started to administer drugs to her following her parents' death.

Outwardly, D'Wit came across as a pillar of strength, helping Ellie plan her parents' funeral and providing emotional support.

She recalls that he would turn up at her house with an open can of energy drink which he would offer her  and because she was exhausted she would have some of it.

Yet every time she saw him she would subsequently feel tired to the point where she could barely get out of bed.

'I was sobbing down the phone to the GP saying I couldn't go on,' she recalls. 'Whenever I had a break from D'Wit for a couple of days I felt better. And when he was arrested and remanded in custody it went away for good.

'I now have to wonder whether he was also administering drugs to me. I know that the police are also looking into other deaths that were linked to him.'

They're just some of the many pieces of this horrifying jigsaw puzzle that Ellie is still struggling to figure out.

Tuesday marked the first anniversary of the day Ellie found her parents' bodies. For a young woman who is also a new mother and still breastfeeding her six-month-old daughter Aria, the ramifications are immense.

'There's so much pain,' she says. 'It was my son's second birthday not long ago and for his first birthday we had a little party at my parents' house. This year it's just so different.

'They never got to meet their baby granddaughter. I'm still young and there are so many times when I just want my mum. It's one thing people passing, but for them to be taken like that... there are no words really.

'My parents had worked hard all their lives and saved up, and they were really looking forward to retiring  and that got taken away by someone that they cared for and trusted like a son.'

Indeed, it would be hard for anyone to find the right words to describe the extent of the betrayal that Luke D'Wit inflicted on this previously happy family.

Carol and Stephen had married in 2000  it was Carol's third marriage, and she had two grown-up children from her previous relationships  by which point Harry had already been born.

Ellie came along a year later, and she remembers a loving family unit in which both parents worked hard, her father in property and her mother in sales. 'Dad used to say "There are no shortcuts in life". He worked so hard to provide for us,' she recalls.

'My mum was so full of life, and she always pushed me to be better. When I got older we would have girly days out at the spa and plenty of shopping trips. She was my best friend.'

In around 2011 the Baxters moved from Woolwich in South-East London to Essex to give the children a more rural upbringing, buying a comfortable detached home. By then, Carol had already come up with the idea for a bespoke shower mat business after renovating her own house and not finding one she wanted.

'She figured that if she had to pay extra for a mat that would actually fit, so would other people,' says Ellie. 'So then she designed it and [the firm] just grew and grew.' She pauses. 'That's when Luke came in.'

Luke, who was then 24 and, on paper, appeared to be a 'boring computer geek', had helped design the website for a business run by one of Carol's friends. Ellie, at the time still a young girl, remembers thinking he was 'weird'.

'My mum's office is on the second floor and so was my bedroom, and every time I'd get out of the shower, he'd be in the hallway. It got to the point where I had to speak to Mum about it.'

Even so, as the years went by, D'Wit became part of the furniture: despite being officially employed by the Baxters two days a week, he was at the family home most weekdays.

On occasion, he would arrive at 7am, and Ellie remembers a mounting degree of friction in the household as the years went by.

Ellie with her mother Carol during one of their girly days out at Clarice House Spa in Colchester in June 2021

'At one point in around 2020 my parents asked me to try to get all the passwords for everything, because they wanted to fire him,' she says. 'But in the end they just thought it was too risky to let him go, because if he wanted to, by the power of a few buttons he could shut the whole business down. I think their good hearts won out. He was odd, but they felt a bit sorry for him.'

Not least when, in early 2021, D'Wit's father died after a long battle with cancer.

'He was literally always at the house,' she says. 'We assumed he was lonely. We even let him join us for family dinners and special occasions.' To this day, Ellie has no idea at what point D'Wit started to hatch his heinous scheme, but her feeling is that it was linked to his own father's death.

'I think that's when he started with everything for whatever reason,' she says.

'Everything' being a sprawling and vast web of lies that took police weeks to unravel.

Taking advantage of a pre-existing condition from which Carol suffered called Hashimoto's disease  an autoimmune condition which attacks the thyroid and made Carol fatigued and prone to lapses in concentration  D'Wit started to overdose her with her prescription medication promethazine, slipping it into 'healthy' smoothies.

Over time, this led to horrendous physical symptoms, including immense confusion and tremors.

Knowing that she had previously been in contact with a Florida-based endocrinologist called Dr Andrea Bowden, he created a fake account for the doctor which he used to spin lies to Carol, recommending various useless treatments. He also posed as three members of a fake support group for Hashimoto's, even going so far as to create fake family and friends for them.

'Mum started following "Andrea's" guidelines, and it just went from there,' Ellie says.

Over time, her mum's condition worsened to the point where sometimes she barely knew what she was doing.

Ellie recalls one particularly distressing occasion when she found her mum ironing a shirt on the hob as foam spilled from a dishwasher that has clearly been overloaded with detergent. The stink of chemicals was everywhere.

'My eyes were watering,' says Ellie. 'I have no idea what she had been doing but that was one of the worst times I'd ever seen her; she was absolutely all over the place. It was actually only a few weeks before she died.'

She adds: 'It took a huge toll on Dad, too  he felt so helpless. It was a horrible situation, but Mum believed she was receiving the best medical care  backed up by her online interactions with her 'support group.'

D'Wit even organised a face-to-face meeting with one of these non-existent people, before claiming they'd had a medical emergency and couldn't make it.

'Mum and Dad had driven two hours to a hotel to meet this person, only to have to drive back. Mum was so upset,' Ellie recalls.

There was more: D'Wit also invented a fake illness of his own to further play on the family's sympathies.

'He claimed he had been diagnosed with bone cancer, for which he had treatment every Thursday,' says Ellie. 'He would come back complaining of headaches and fatigue. My parents and I would support him through this.

'But once again that was another lie  the closest he'd come to a hospital in the last ten years was after he'd had a paddleboard accident. It was another way to emotionally manipulate us all.'

It is a small comfort that, even as Carol's health continued to deteriorate, she still got to cradle Ellie's son Axel  her grandson  following his birth in March 2022.

'Mum and Dad both loved Axel to bits,' says Ellie. 'The first time my dad held his first grandchild, he said he fitted perfectly in his arms like my brother and I had. He lit up. He and Mum were so excited for my new baby.'

A baby they would never get the chance to meet, because we now know that at some point in April last year, D'Wit had decided to inflict his final, deadly blow, administering fentanyl he had hoarded from a prescription written for his father via another 'healthy' smoothie.

Horrifyingly, he even rigged up two mobile phone cameras via which he could watch the couple die, before returning later to clean up the scene, rearrange their bodies into a more peaceful position and forge a codicil to the will.

EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: The killer geek who watched elderly millionaire couple die on his phone after slipping fentanyl into their drink - and still shared a bedroom with his mum at age of 34 Advertisement

He also used Carol's phone to move 6,000 from her account into the business account.

'We also know now that, with my parents dead bodies alongside him, he used Mum's phone to Google holidays to Disneyland,' Ellie says.

And as Carol and Stephen lay dying, D'Wit took an oblivious Ellie, her partner Marcus and Axel out for an early birthday meal for Ellie.

'He knew Mum and Dad were dying, and he was laughing and drinking and buying us dinner,' she says, shaking her head in disbelief.

The following day, by then concerned that she had not heard from her parents over the weekend, Ellie decided to pop round.

'When I turned up I saw the blinds were still down and the lights were on. It was 1pm, and Dad would religiously open the blinds every morning and close them at night  so I instantly knew something was wrong.'

When she got no answer at the front door, she ran round the house until she arrived by the conservatory  where she was confronted by the horrific sight of her parents sitting bolt upright, clearly dead.

'You could see they were blue, and it looked like my mum had stuff leaking out of her mouth. It was really, really horrible,' she says, her eyes filling with tears. 'Marcus smashed the back door to get in and I went to touch them, and they were so cold and stiff. I remember stroking Mum's hair, pleading with her to wake up.'

The shocking discovery caused Ellie, in the early stages of pregnancy, to bleed heavily.

'I've never known an emotional pain to physically hurt so much,' she says. 'I thought I'd lost my baby daughter, but I couldn't cope with confronting that, so I didn't go for a scan.'

Thankfully, a subsequent scan showed her daughter was unharmed, and over the next few weeks, as police investigations continued into the possible cause of her parents' apparently inexplicable deaths  initial suspicions of carbon monoxide poisoning having proved unfounded  a grief-stricken Ellie concentrated on planning their funeral.

Chillingly, she says, D'Wit was a 'tower of strength', who helped choose the funeral flowers, accompanied her to meet the funeral celebrant and even looked after Axel when Ellie went for a baby scan.

That is until June, when Ellie awoke to that knock on the door and was taken into custody along with Marcus and D'Wit.

It was during the subsequent intense six hours of questioning  Ellie sobbing throughout  that she learned her parents had died of fentanyl poisoning.

'It didn't make any sense,' she recalls. Nor did the realisation that, while she and Marcus were released, D'Wit was remanded in custody and charged with her parents' murder. 'I couldn't process it.'

Luke D'Wit and Carol Baxter with her daughter Ellie and grandson Axel on a Christmas shopping trip

Moreover, as a witness for the prosecution, Ellie only learned the full extent of D'Wit's lies at his trial.

Horrifyingly, she learned during court proceedings that police believe that a metal tack that had been found in her mother's stomach when she went to A&E complaining of stomach pain in 2021 was also likely to have been administered by D'Wit, as they found a bag of exactly the same tacks at his home.

'It's ridiculous to know the extent that this man had gone to. It's overwhelming,' she says.

In a speech outside court, Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, head of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said he had no doubt that if D'Wit, now serving a minimum tariff of 37 years, had not been caught he would have gone on to commit other murders.

They are now looking into the deaths of D'Wit's father and grandfather.

Meanwhile, Ellie is left to live with the legacy of her loss  grandchildren who will never know their grandparents, a hundred plans unfulfilled  and to finally grieve.

'I know it sounds stupid, but I've got this group chat with Mum and Dad on my phone, and I update it sometimes,' she says.

'And it helps to think that somehow they're still here with me, even if I can't see them.'
Kidnapping victim Elizabeth Smart soaked up the sun in a chic black bikini as she lounged around in Palm Springs with her family - just one month after she marked the 21st anniversary of her sensational rescue.

The 36-year-old took to social media to flaunt her toned physique as she posed up against a palm tree while she and her family - including her father and his new husband who he wed in June 2021 - enjoyed some much-needed 'pool time.'

Elizabeth - who was just 14 years old when she was abducted at knifepoint from her bed at the family's home in Salt Lake City, Utah, on June 5, 2002 - has been sharing her healing journey following the horrific ordeal that culminated in her rescue in 2003.

Despite previously thinking that every dream she had for herself had been 'stolen,' the now-mom-of-three proved that she still believes in happy endings by taking in the stunning weather California has to offer while spending quality time with her family.

Kidnapping victim Elizabeth Smart soaked up the sun in a chic black bikini as she lounged around in Palm Springs with her family

The 36-year-old took to social media to flaunt her toned physique as she leaned up against a palm tree while she and her family enjoyed some 'pool time'

She has been taking in the stunning weather California has to offer while spending some quality time with her spouse, her children, her father and his husband

The 36-year-old showcased her fun-filled trip in a series of snaps posted on her Instagram story.

Elizabeth smiled from ear-to-ear as she leaned up against a palm tree while sporting a flattering black bikini.

She let her blonde locks fall straight down her back and donned a pair of black shades to match her swimsuit, which she said she had been 'loving.'

In other images, the doting mom went for a swim with her daughters in a heart-warming snap captioned: 'Pool time equals best time.'

Elizabeth went even further in showing off her love for the water as she also captured herself floating in the water in a blue one-piece bikini.

Elsewhere, the family filled their time playing board games, completing puzzles and eating Elizabeth's 'favorite' cuisine - Mexican food.

In one photo, Elizabeth snuggled up to husband Matthew Gilmour whom she married in 2012.

Her father Ed, who tied the knot with his partner in 2021, was also on the vacation.

The 36-year-old boasted her fun-filled trip in a series of snaps posted on her Instagram story

Elizabeth also boasted all the fun she and her family were having while on the getaway - with her sharing flicks of them playing board games

In other images, the doting mom went for a swim with her daughters in a heart-warming snap captioned: 'Pool time equals best time'

In one photo, Elizabeth snuggled up to her husband Matthew Gilmour whom she married in 2012. In another, she showed off the relaxing puzzle she created

The 68-year-old announced in August 2019 that he was gay and leaving the Mormon Church.

He also revealed that he would be divorcing wife Lois after 34 years of marriage - which was finalized at the end of that year.

Ed first made headlines in 2002 when he and Lois made desperate pleas for help in finding their kidnapped then 14-year-old daughter Elizabeth, who was found after nine months of harrowing captivity.

And although he appears to be content in his dating life, his relationship with his ex-wife is strained. He said he hasn't spoken with Lois since coming out, according to reports.

He admitted one of the hardest parts of this new chapter of his life was divorcing Lois, who he thought was 'the one.'

Back in 2002, Brian David Mitchell, a self-proclaimed prophet, kidnapped Elizabeth with Wanda Barzee's help and took her into the woods, where he performed a mock-wedding ceremony before raping her for the first time.

To keep her from escaping, she was tied up with steel cables in a dugout filled with mice and spiders.

Elizabeth also spent the Easter break with her father and his husband, with the mom-of-three sharing a happy family photo on her Instagram account at the time

Elizabeth's father Ed tied the knot with his husband in 2021 in a ceremony that saw the two grooms horseback riding together

She was forced to take drugs and drink alcohol, she testified in 2009, and was raped daily  as often as four times a day.

Back in 2002, Brian, a self-proclaimed prophet, kidnapped Elizabeth with Wanda's help. Elizabeth was rescued in 2003

Back in 2002, Brian (left), a self-proclaimed prophet, kidnapped Elizabeth with Wanda's (right) help and took her into the woods, where he performed a mock-wedding ceremony before raping her for the first time

Their trials were dragged out for years due to delays and mental evaluations - it took nearly eight years for Brian's case to finally come to court

The mom-of-three - who has since gone on to become a public speaker, author and advocate - founded the Elizabeth Smart Foundation in 2011

They later moved her to Lakeside, California, where they plotted to kidnap other girls. But, after their last failed kidnapping attempt, she convinced them to return to Utah.

She was rescued at age 15 after she and her abductors were recognized by witnesses in Sandy, a city in Salt Lake County.

Their trials were dragged out for years due to delays and mental evaluations. It took nearly eight years for Brian's case to finally come to court.

Brian was sentenced to life in prison for his crimes, but Wanda was given just 15 years. In a plea deal, she was given credit for the seven years she had already served.

Wanda was released from prison in September 2018 and lived to the same town as Smart, despite the survivor's pleas to the parole board not to set her free.

The mom-of-three - who has since gone on to become a public speaker, author and advocate - founded the Elizabeth Smart Foundation in 2011 and has spent over a decade combatting the victimization and exploitation of sexual assault.
Following the shock news that The Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner and his wife Theresa Nist are already set for divorce - just three months after their dream TV wedding - many fans have been left wondering if his new spouse suffered the same fate as his ex.

Gerry, 72, initially pulled on the hearts of millions as he was presented as a loving retired restaurateur who had not had a single date since his wife of 45 years suddenly passed away from an infection in 2017.

But late last year his wholesome image started to crack after he found himself engulfed in scandal when a report by The Hollywood Reporter unearthed a secret past that included a three-year relationship following the death of his wife and various blue-collar jobs.

It also alleged that Gerry had a three-year relationship with a woman who claimed she was dumped because she gained 10 pounds - in a move that did not match his onscreen persona.

Now, in the aftermath of his split from Theresa, 70, fans of the show have been left wondering what really went on behind the scenes - as FEMAIL takes a look at the shocking past allegations levelled against him.

Following the shock news that The Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner and his wife Theresa Nist are already set for divorce - just three months after their dream TV wedding - many fans have been left wondering if his new spouse suffered the same fate as his ex

Gerry, 72, initially pulled on the hearts of millions as he was presented as a loving retired restaurateur who had not had a single date since his wife of 45 years (pictured together) suddenly passed away from an infection in 2017

Gerry and Theresa, who tied the knot in January during a televised wedding, had continued to live in separate homes following their nuptials.

But the couple announced the news of their split during an interview on Good Morning America this morning, when they opened up about the reasons for their shock separation.

'Theresa and I have had a number of heart-to-heart conversations, and we've looked closely at our situation, our living situation, so forth and - and we've kind of come to the conclusion mutually that it's probably time for us to - dissolve our marriage,' Gerry told host Juju Chang.

The split comes just weeks after a bombshell investigation into Gerry's life beyond the cameras uncovered a professional and personal history that did not match with his persona of a grieving man who hadn't gone on a first date in 40 years.

Namely, it was reported that he had been in a three-year relationship with a woman named Carolyn, who is 14 years his junior, whom he lived with for over a year at his Indiana lake house.

Carolyn told The Hollywood Reporter the two began dating after Gerry called her after his wife Toni's death to ask for help donating some clothes to charity.

She claimed she quit her job to move in with Gerry in July 2018, but things soon went south, as his demands began to emerge.

For example, he soon informed Carolyn she would have to pay about $1,000 a month for her share of expenses, which she managed to negotiate down to $850.

Late last year, Gerry's wholesome image started to crack after he found himself engulfed in scandal when a report unearthed a secret past

Gerry and Theresa, who tied the knot in January during a televised wedding, had continued to live in separate homes following their nuptials

The image of Gerry painted by Carolyn is a far cry from the man presented on the show, who won over millions with his emotional awareness and wholesomeness.

Gerry was reportedly so concerned with dividing costs that Carolyn would pay for her meals at restaurants beforehand so when the check game Turner could pretend he was paying the whole tab.

The reality star was also allegedly obsessed with cleanliness and demanded Carolyn make the bed every morning before they had breakfast.

The romance ended in late 2019, when, according to Carolyn, Gerry said he would not be taking her to his high school reunion because of her weight.

The Golden Bachelor allegedly said: 'I'm not taking you to the reunion looking like that.'

Gerry then told Carolyn she had to be out of the house by January 1, 2020, according to THR, which reviewed emails and texts between the former couple and spoke to people who witnessed the relationship.

Carolyn fell down the stairs while she packed and required emergency surgery but says Gerry accused her of using the fall as an excuse to extend her stay at his home and claimed she was planning on suing him over it.

Gerry wouldn't even let Carolyn stay at the home until she finished the two weeks of notice she had to give at her new job in Indiana, forcing her to stay at a hotel, she claimed.

The couple announced the news of their split during an interview on Good Morning America this morning, when they opened up about the reasons for their shock separation

In addition, his LinkedIn profile showed that he had not owned a restaurant since 1985, when he sold his Mr Quick hamburger franchise in Iowa (pictured)

The bombshell report came after The U.S. Sun previously reported that Gerry's claim that he had not dated since his wife's death may not have been accurate.

The outlet spoke to a friend of Gerry, Heather Lanning-Adams, who said he had dated a couple of women over the last six years.

Similarly, it was also alleged that Gerry had lied about his professional credentials too.

While Gerry was introduced as a 'retired restaurateur' on the show, his LinkedIn profile shows he has not owned a restaurant since 1985, when he sold his Mr Quick hamburger franchise in Iowa, where had worked his way up since high school.

Since then, he has worked various sales and management jobs in the meat industry, per his resume on the website.

Despite the show claiming he has been retired for decades, after selling his restaurant Gerry worked installing hot tubs and as a maintenance man in Iowa.

It was during his time as a maintenance man at the Vera French Mental Health Center in Davenport that he met Carolyn, but the two did not get together until two months after his wife died.
A popular Korean barbecue restaurant has raised eyebrows after offering students a discount if they turn up for lunch in their school uniforms.

The Butchers Buffet chain, which has restaurants in Blacktown, Chinatown, Eastwood, Cabramatta and Strathfield offers students up to 30 per cent off if they have lunch during the week.

To get the deal guests must show up dressed in their school gear and leave two Google reviews per table. These terms and conditions have critics scratching their heads.

One local posted on Reddit to ask why students would have to be in their school clothes, asking 'Who is this useful to?'.

'Can we use a student card instead of our uniforms?' another asked.

Others cheekily suggested the rule left room for interpretation.

'They also technically don't say you have to be a high schooler, just wearing a high school uniform,' one wrote.

A popular Korean barbecue restaurant has raised eyebrow after offering students a discount if they turn up for lunch in their school uniforms

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, a Butchers Buffet spokesperson said they had tried using ID cards with students but it wasn't successful.

'Many students either misplaced or didn't have their cards on them when they came into our eatery, so they felt like they weren't able to take up the offer,' they said.

'Student IDs are still welcome, but not necessary now to get access to the deal,' they added.

It also helps staff identify students at a glance.

'We are able to differentiate who is a high school student vs who is a university student,' they said.

However some pointed out that the discount, which brings the meals down to $30, still puts the meal out of reach for most high school students.

'$30? I remember going to school and paying $5 for a chicken tender roll thinking I was king,' one man said.

'What high school kids have a spare $30 each, to spend on this, it would have to be quite a niche market,' asked another.

Butchers Buffet charges adults - 'those over ten' - $36.99 for lunch Monday-Thursday and $43.00 from Friday to Sunday.

All you can eat slots at the restaurant are capped at 90-minutes and patrons are charged $15 a head if they don't manage to eat all of their food.

Some people questioned the legalities or 'ethical line' behind demanding reviews for a discount - something the restaurant does consistently with its promotions.

But an ACCC spokesperson told FEMAIL as long as they allow all honest reviews - be it good or bad - then it is okay.

'Incentives offered to customers to provide reviews must be: applied regardless of whether the reviewer leaves a positive or negative review. (and) clearly disclosed so consumers know the review was incentivised,' they said.

READ MORE: Maccas customers slammed over disrespectful act Advertisement

The reviews are mixed - however it is unclear how many were left as part of a promotion.

'Came to butchers buffet with a mate today. Everything started alright but major issue came when the allocated time was up. We still had a little bit of food on the plate which we could of finished but the manager told us to leave,' one man complained.

He added that restaurant then made him pay for the food he did not eat.

Another said they were made to pay $15 per person for any food waste.

'The meat, salad variety very very poor! so value for money and service wasn't very good at all and sorry won't ever be back waste of money,' they said.

Others were impressed by the eatery.

The restaurant said they made the rule to help students - who often leave ID cards at home

'It was a long queue but worth! Wide selections of premium meats, fresh vegetables, desserts,' wrote one.

'Absolutely exquisite, love the atmosphere and care from all the employees,' said another.

The spokesperson explained that they ask for Google reviews but don't really enforce the rule.

'We don't hawk around the students and force them to open their phones to write them. Rather, we remind them upon purchase that the reviews are welcome within the promotion,' the spokesperson said.

'We don't force or push them and they're welcome to write their own review if they wish to do it, we don't force a positive review- we want them to be honest and based off their experience. Ultimately, this is just a strategy to help with our marketing - it's tough times at the moment, and every little bit of support keeps our doors open.'
A young mum has revealed her fury after she was left 'feeling like a criminal' by a worker at the coles self-serve checkout.

Carissa, from the Gold Coast, said she was struggling to scan her groceries because the manned checkouts were closed and her baby cried every time she put him down.

'I was literally carrying my baby in one arm because he refused to be in the pram. The pram was full of stuff from Kmart, I had all of the Coles things laid out on the seat,' she said.

Carissa claimed a Coles checkout operator watched her struggle through the ordeal and refused to help.

Carissa was then stopped at the exit after the security gates didn't let her out, and said the employee went through every single purchase on her receipt before she was allowed to leave.

A mum revealed her fury after she was left 'feeling like a criminal' at a self-serve checkout

The mum was especially offended because there were no other customers at the checkout - meaning the worker could have helped her with the groceries.

'I've struggled in scanning all of my items, the Coles checkout operator is watching me and not once did she offer to help.

'I get to the end, and she's watched me scan every single item, and the security gates don't open for me. She finally strolls over and asks me if I have my receipt.'

Carissa was silently fuming at the question as she juggled her fussing infant, the shopping and pram.

'She looks at it, goes through it all, and then the boom gates open,' she said.

'I'm struggling, I'm scanning it all, I feel like a criminal, no-one is offering to help - this is not okay,' the mum added.

The mum shared that a Coles checkout operator refused to help her

'Whatever new system Coles has in place with this, it's not working. Do better than this, do not make your customers feel like they are thieves - especially when they're not.

'Open your checkouts again, don't make everyone scan their own items if you're not going to trust them.'

A Coles spokesperson told FEMAIL: 'We actively encourage and train our team members to assist customers who may need additional help - which may include customers with prams, young children, or elderly customers.

'We are disappointed to hear that this hasn't occurred in this customer's experience and encourage our customers to come to us directly so we can address this with our team.'

Other Australian shoppers also shared similar experiences with supermarket self checkouts.

'I had a bottle of water on my pram that I purchased from another shop and the gate closed on me!' one said. 'I had to open up my bank app and show I just purchased $4.80 water 20 mins ago from a machine.'

Another said, 'I had a Coles worker yell at me in front of everyone to scan my big items first after I'd scanned a few small items. If they want us to use self service then let us scan how we want.'

'I went into Big W to get a drink. Had nappies from Woolies. I was literally nearly out of the store and a worker YELLED at me to come back asking to see my receipts for nappies and made me stand there waiting,' a mum wrote.

A woman said, 'I went to Coles today after I shopped at Aldi. They wanted to look through every single bag and she made me scan my nappies and toilet paper in front of her.'

'Woolworths self serve wouldn't let me scan more until a staff member verified my pram that only had my baby in it. Honestly this is getting out of control,' a mum said.
A young woman has been left feeling 'like a Disney villain' after her best friend used the 'awful' baby name she'd suggested in jest for her first born son.

The woman revealed her friend had come to her for guidance - asking which of a long list of names she preferred.

On the list was the name Oliver, which has been the number one most popular name for Australian parents for a decade.

She replied that name was her favourite - but that she would spell it Aulliver. The pals then 'laughed it off' and the conversation moved on.

Then the baby arrived.

'She gave birth, made a Facebook announcement. She'd named him Aulliver, I'm sorry my boy. I didn't think she'd do that,' she wrote on Reddit.

A young woman has been left feeling 'like a Disney villain' after her best friend used the 'awful' baby name she'd suggested in jest for her first born son

Hundreds shared their own cheeky suggestions which were taken a little too far.

'I did something similar.. .suggested a middle name that would make the child's initials something that would make a middle school boy laugh. They went with it,' said one.

Another woman admitted she was so sick of her sister-in-law asking for her list of girl names she told her she only had one: 'Mierda'.

The name means 'sh*t' in Spanish, and was meant as a joke - but then her sister in-law went on to use it at the hospital.

'They went with that name, but guess what? Their OB/GYN speaks Spanish, and informed them exactly what that name was,' she said.

Others recalled people they'd met with even worse names.

I knew someone called Mary Conde (which translates to 'f*ggot of' if you read it as 'Maricon de' in Spanish,' one woman said.

'Anyway, she met a really nice guy with whom she was very happy for many years. Problem was, Spanish speaking naming conventions meant she ended up with the full name 'Mary Conde Plazas' which is 'F*ggot of the Town Square'.'

Another woman revealed her nephew spelled Oliver the same way.

'They named their son Aulliver because her and her husband's names start with A,' she said.

'For some reason it almost bothers me more that they often shorten it to Aullie,' she confessed.

Others said the joke-gone-wrong made them feel like messing with their own expecting friends.
Counterfeit supplies of an experimental slimming jab nicknamed the 'new Ozempic' are being sold in Britain for just 2 a pop, MailOnline can reveal.

Retatrutide is still being tested in rigorous trials and is years away from being approved for use.

Despite this, opportunistic hawkers are tapping into the hype and illegally creating knock-off versions of the next-gen drug using the pharmaceutical firm's own recipe.

Chinese firms making the substance in labs are even brazenly offering samples for as little as 80p per dose.

One version, made by a company called Centurion Sarms, based in North Shields in England, being branded as 'the ultimate weight loss supplement

Adverts list it as a 'weight loss supplement', with vials emblazoned with the words 'not for human consumption' and 'research only' in a bid to not be accused of supplying an unapproved medication.

Some are being made in EU or Chinese labs and marketed to Brits directly online.

It follows interest in the approved weight-loss jab drug semaglutide, sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, reaching fever pitch.

The drugs work by triggering hormones in the brain which trick the body into slowing digestion and keeping the stomach full, reducing appetite, and consequently, the amount people eat.

Demand for semaglutide is so high that supplies for the version of the drug specifically designed for diabetics have occasionally run out.

Retatrutide is made by US pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, who already make the weight-loss jab Mounjaro, a rival to Novo Nordisk's semaglutide.

The drug, still deep in the clinical trial stage of development, has been dubbed 'triple G' because it targets three different hormones involved in how much we eat.

This compares to Ozempic and Wegovy which target one, and Mounjaro, which targets two.

Early trials suggest patients taking retatrutide experience up to 24.2 per cent weight loss after 48 weeks, the greatest amount seen yet with any obesity medicine.

For comparison, Wegovy can help people lose 15 per cent of their weight.

Pictures on its website featured 5mg vials of retatrutide with labels emblazoned with the words 'research only' and 'not fit for human consumption'

Other examples uncovered by this website include the EU-based business Biolab which ships retatrutide via Royal Mail in the UK for 110 per 5mg vial

Mounjaro, dubbed the 'King Kong' of weight loss jabs, had a comparison figure of 22.5 per cent.

However, it is still likely years away from reaching approval for use in the UK, with currently underway clinical trials not expected to conclude until 2026.

One knock-off version, made by a company called Centurion Sarms, based in North Shields in England, is branded as 'the ultimate weight loss supplement' for 82 a pop.

Pictures on its website featured 5mg vials of retatrutide with labels emblazoned with the words 'research only' and 'not fit for human consumption'.

Centurion Sarms also recommends what it calls 'essential items' customers should purchase alongside retatrutide, like sterile 'water for injection'.

The firm is not listed on the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) register of authorised online sellers of medicines.

Other examples of firms offering counterfeit retatrutide uncovered by this website include the EU-based business Biolab, which ships retatrutide via Royal Mail in the UK for 110 per 5mg vial.

Similarly to Centurion Sarms, Biolab claims its products are for research purposes only.

However, reviews it publishes on its website show people are purchasing and taking the product as a weight-loss drug.

'Perfect supplement for anyone looking to cut down and control their food intake,' one review reads.

'My girlfriend loves this product which helps her to stay very lean a whole year long,' another says.

Brits can also order supplies of retatrutide 'fat loss injection' from Chinese labs for a fraction of the cost of other supplies.

MailOnline found one lab offering 10 vials for just 20, with the seller promising 'no customs issues' for delivery to Britain.

All the companies offering the them are thought to have made them using details submitted by its developer as part of the patent process.

Dr Alison Cave, the MHRA chief safety officer, said: 'Retatrutide is currently in clinical trials and has not been approved for use in the UK.

MailOnline found one Chinese lab offering 10 vials for just 20 with the seller promising 'no customs issues' for delivery to Britain

Experts have warned that Wegovy is not a 'magic pill'. Trials have shown that users can rapidly pile pounds back on once they stop taking it, and it can trigger a side-effects including nausea, constipation and diarrhoea

'This means it has not yet been shown to meet our standards for safety, quality and efficacy.'

She urged people not to buy medications such as these from online sellers like those highlighted by MailOnline.

'Buying any medicinal product such as semaglutide or a product labelled as retatrutide from illegally trading online suppliers significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not authorised for use in the UK,' she said.

READ MORE: Be warned of the 'Ozempic wall'! Experts say little-known issue will affect EVERYONE on miracle slimming jabs - and it can kick in after just six weeks Appearing on the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, earlier this month 55-year-old American comedian and actor Tracy Morgan revealed he eventually 'out-ate' Ozempic and gained 40 pounds (18kg) Advertisement

'Purchasing from illegal suppliers means there are no safeguards to ensure products meet our quality and safety standards, and taking such medicines may put your health at risk.'

A spokesperson for Eli Lilly said: 'Retatrutide has not been reviewed or approved by the FDA or any regulatory agency anywhere in the world, and is not available to patients outside of Lillys clinical trials.

'Lilly is deeply concerned that actors falsely representing that they are selling Lilly investigational products that have not yet received regulatory marketing authorisation, like retatrutide, may expose patients to potentially serious health risks.'

Centurion Sarms' webpage for retatrutide was removed shortly after MailOnline highlighted it to UK regulators.

While the new hormone-mimicking weight loss jabs have been hailed as 'gamechanger' in the fight against bulging waistlines, the drugs have notable downsides.

Patients have to take the currently approved jabs for life or see the pounds they lost pile back, doctors have warned.

Some rival pharma companies have also labelled the drugs as indiscriminate in application as people not only lose weight on them but muscle mass as well.

Additionally, like any medication, they can have side effects that vary in both frequency and severity.

For semaglutide these include nausea, constipation and diarrhoea, fatigue, stomach pain, headaches and dizziness.

Weirder and much rarer side effects, like hair loss, have also been reported.

MailOnline also recently revealed that semaglutide has been linked to 20 deaths in Britain.
A private clinic offering puberty blockers to British kids questioning their gender is registered in Singapore  where the powerful drugs aren't given to children.

GenderGP is ran by Dr Helen Webberley, an ex-NHS GP who describes herself as an 'advocate for LGBTQ+ healthcare rights and inclusivity'.

Critics told MailOnline GenderGP has shattered any 'pretence' that it cares about those rights by setting up in the south east Asian nation.

Her business, which boasts of helping anyone 'however old they are', advertises its 270 puberty blocking injections online, despite campaigners calling for an urgent crackdown on 'cowboy clinics'.

Children can no longer get the drugs on the NHS after a landmark ruling last month, meaning they have to go private to get them.

Dr Helen Webberley is the face of private care for gender questioning youth in the UK an area of increasing controversy in the wake of the Cass review

Health chiefs said there was no evidence the drugs, which pause physical changes of puberty like breast development and the growth of facial hair, were either safe or effective.

Ministers have since pledged to 'look carefully' at ordering a ban on private clinics after a bombshell report by expert paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass expressed concern over their behaviour.

In the wake of the review, a defiant GenderGP said children 'will suffer and die' if the Cass review recommendations are taken forward.

GenderGP is an off-shore organisation that's registered in Singapore, which doesn't recognise gay marriage.

The island nation only repealed a ban on sex between men in 2022.

Singapore also doesn't permit any under-18s to get puberty blockers and cross sex hormones on its equivalent of the NHS.

Kids can get hormones privately from the age of 16, however.

Because it is based outside the UK, it does not need to be registered with the regulatory body the Care Quality Commission.

The landmark Cass review on gender care for children in the UK put services like that of Dr Webberley's under the microscope.

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Led by expert paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass, the scathing review found children were being set on a path of irreversible change despite 'remarkably weak evidence' to support medical treatment like puberty blockers and cross sex hormones.

Dr Cass's review also singled out private services, finding GPs had been 'pressurised to prescribe hormones' by patients who had seen a private clinician.

The report, which ran to nearly 400 pages, issued a stern warning over 'the use of unregulated medications and of providers that are not regulated within the UK'.

Dr Cass said GPs should resist attempts by private providers to prescribe puberty blockers or hormones, 'particularly if that private provider is acting outside NHS guidance'.

UK advocacy group LGB Alliance chief executive Kate Barker told MailOnline: 'Unregulated private clinics that sell puberty blockers to these children are cashing-in on their confusion.

'Any pretence at "caring" is debunked by the hypocrisy of registering a clinic in a tax-haven which is actively hostile to gay rights.'

Dr Webberley's GenderGP offers a range of treatments to youngsters experiencing doubts over their gender identity.

Its website states that it doesn't enforce a strict age criterion for assessment and doesn't require parental consent.

However, it does add children don't need medical intervention until they reach a particular stage of puberty.

It uses EU-based prescribers to issue scripts for drugs like puberty blockers and hormones which are valid in the UK under a post-Brexit agreement.

This allows patients, even children, to bypass NHS guidelines on who should get these drugs.

On its F&Q page explaining its system it states that UK pharmacies are 'not allowed to refuse to dispense' such scripts without 'good reason'.

In the wake of the Cass review, GenderGP issued a defiant message via social media, claiming children will die if the measures recommended are implemented in the NHS.

'We know children and young people will suffer and die if these recommendations are implemented,' it wrote in a message shared by Dr Webberley herself.

It went on to say: 'GenderGP will continue to provide help for all people of any age who are transgender and who are seeking gender-affirming care.'

GenderGP described itself as being 'owned by Singapore based GenderGP PTE Ltd, a global organisation which provides advocacy services for LGBTQI+ people around the world'.

Its website makes no reference to LGBT rights in its host nation.

Dr Webberley is not a stranger to controversy, previously celebrating news that 70 children aged three and four had been referred to NHS for gender treatment.

In 2018, she was convicted of running an independent medical agency without being registered and fined 12,000.

Later in 2022 she was suspended by the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) over a range of charges that included failing to provide good clinical care in 2016 to three female patients, aged 11, 12 and 17, who were transitioning to boys.

GenderGP's Singaporean HQ where the business that dishes out controversial drugs to youngsters in the UK

In its determination the panel found 36 allegations, including failing to provide adequate follow-up care to a 12-year-old who was prescribed testosterone, were proved.

Dr Webberley was suspended for two months by the MPTS but vowed to fight the ruling.

A year later in 2023 the suspension was overruled by the High Court who found the MPTS panel to be 'confused, clearly wrong in places, and it omitted reference to important evidence'.

Investigations meant Dr Webberley had been suspended on an interim basis since May 2017 on patient safety grounds.

The appeal allowed Dr Webberley to continue practising without restriction.

But the same isn't true for her husband and former medic Michael Webberley.

An MPTS tribunal in 2022 struck him off the UK medical register for what it called a 'catalogue of failings' in relation to his care of the seven patients between February 2017 and June 2019.

One was aged just nine-years-old with another, a teenager, killing themselves in the months that followed.

Mr Webberley was found, with all seven patients, to have provided treatment that wasn't clinically indicated or had been prescribed without adequate tests, examinations or assessments.

Michael Webberley was struck off the UK medical register for a 'catalogue of failings' in relation to his care of the seven patients between February 2017 and June 2019

He'd reached diagnoses of gender dysphoria - 'a sense of unease a person may have because of mismatch between their biological sex and their gender identity', according to the NHS - based on inadequate information and failed to gain informed consent from patients.

The tribunal also found he had acted 'outside the limits of his expertise' as a consultant gastroenterologist and had failed to establish multi-disciplinary teams.

In a number of cases, Mr Webberley had taken care of the patients after restrictions had been placed on his wife's practice.

The most concerning case was for a 17-year-patient referred to in the proceedings as 'Patient W' who contacted Mr Webberley in 2018.

They had become unhappy at the long waiting lists for NHS treatment and said in an email that they wanted to transition as soon as possible as it would have a 'massively positive impact' on their mental health.

'I have been waiting to go on hormones so long now and it means so much to me,' they added. 'I am so happy it is finally happening.'

Dr Webberley diagnosed Patient W as gender dysphoric without checking information with their GP.

The tribunal also found that he prescribed testosterone when it wasn't clinically indicated and without establishing whether the risks were lower than the risks to the patient's mental and physical health.

Patient W had been diagnosed with Asperger's and had 'complex' and long-standing mental health issues but it 'did not appear' that Mr Webberley was aware of them, and he'd failed to obtain the patient's medical records, the tribunal concluded.

Patient W died by suicide just three months later.

MailOnline approached Dr Webberley and GenderGP for comment.
Rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, breast milk is designed to nourish your baby and simultaneously boost their immune system.

But would that be enough to sway you to try some yourself?

Somewhat bizarrely, celebrities are attempting to reap the same immune-boosting health benefits from drinking their own breast milk.

No stranger to an unusual health trend, Kourtney Kardashian this week admitted to downing a glass because she felt 'sick'.

The 44-year-old  Kim's older sister  sparked bewilderment among her millions of fans with her post, accompanied with a selfie of her lying in bed. Kourtney had been breastfeeding her son Rocky Thirteen, five months.

Kourtney Kardashian has sparked bewilderment among her fans by admitting she downed entire glass of her own breast milk

The star previously shared a snap of herself pumping breast milk in a plunging black dress, after welcoming her son Rocky with husband Travis Barker last year

She wrote on Instagram: 'This filter is crazy and I just pounded a glass of breast milk because I feel sick. Goodnight.'

Kourtney, married to Blink 182 drummer Travis Barker, promotes supplements to fuel the production of healthy breast milk. On top of that, she previously shared a snap of herself pumping breast milk in sexy black lingerie after welcoming her son last year.

But she is not the first big name to try drinking breast milk. Brody Jenner admitted to using his fiancee Tia Blanco's supply it in his morning coffee.

The Hills alum said the unconventional creamer was 'delicious' in a YouTube video, revealing that he'd run out of almond milk.

Meanwhile, in 2014, Jennifer Aniston admitted on Jimmy Kimmel live that she had tried breast milk.

In October, UK reality star Ferne McCann also surprised Steph's Packed Lunch viewers when she appeared on the show to talk about her six-month-old daughter Finty and revealed she'd also tried her own breast milk.

Ferne, who is also a doting mum to daughter Sunday, six  who she shares with her ex Arthur Collins  said her breast milk was like 'liquid gold'.

The 44-year-old and her husband Travis Barker announced at the beginning of November that she had given birth to their son Rocky Thirteen

Kourtney Kardashian is not the only celeb attempting to reap immune boosting health benefits from breast milk

She also revealed she was told by nurses to use it as a first aid remedy. 'Finty, when she was born, had a little bit of weeping eye, and the community midwives are like, "Put a little bit of breast milk on",' the model explained.

'If Lorri had a blister I would suggest squeezing a little bit onto the blister, it would be healed in moments.'

Breast milk is 88 per cent water but the remaining 12 per cent provides everything a baby needs to grow like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and minerals.

The NHS says on its advice page that 'any amount is beneficial', reducing the risk of babies getting some infections.

Additionally, it states that the tailor-made liquid can slash the slash of sudden infant death syndrome, childhood diabetes and leukaemia.

Although it's not designed for adults to drink, there is some scientific research into its potential benefits.

Similar to how it works in babies, a team of Irish researchers said it was worth exploring whether drinking breast milk could help fight off infections and mild illnesses.

One 2019 review, published in the journal Nutrients, suggested breast milk could be used help reduce skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Although it is considered strange by many, experts say there is 'no risk whatsoever' if an adult consumes their own breast milk. The same logic applies for milk of someone they trust.

She is one of many stars who have followed the bizarre health trend, with Ferne McCann also admitting she's tried her own breast milk

Ferne McCann revealed she was told by nurses to use breast milk as a first aid remedy

'When Kourtney Kardashian drank her own milk to relieve her nausea she certainly wasnt going to do herself any harm, and probably did herself some good,' claims Sarah Oakley an independent nurse and health visitor specialising in lactation.

Ms Oakley, based in Cambridgeshire, believes if human milk is nutritious enough to support the growth of a baby, it's also nutritious enough for children and adults.

She said: 'Nobody questions the nutritional value of cows milk, or goats milk or indeed plant based milks, so I cannot understand why we constantly question the value of human milk which has evolved over millions of years to provide the best and most complete nutrition for babies.'

She even says it is 'completely biologically normal' to breastfeed until aged 7, which she admits is often seen as 'weird'.

However, the NHS says that any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial, but 'exclusively' feeing your baby breast milk for their first six months of life offers 'a lot more protection'.

Continued breastfeeding for one or two years is also endorsed by WHO.

'Human milk contains antibodies which protect the baby or child from infection which is crucial in the early years as the immune system isnt fully developed until age seven,' Ms Oakley said.

However, she does warn that you need to make sure the milk is free from diseases or drugs and has been properly stored.

Brody Jenner also admitted last year that he used some of his fiancee's breast milk in his morning coffee, after running out of almond milk

While perfect for babies, the consumption by adults can be risky  especially when purchasing it from strangers.

It can even carry infectious diseases like hepatitis B, HIV and syphilis.

NHS milk banks that take donations from mums and mums-to-be have women take health tests to ensure they don't carry any of these diseases and inadvertently pass them to babies.

The same is true for drugs and prescription medications, some of which can be passed into breastmilk.

NHS milk banks also pasteurise the liquid, heating it to kill any bacteria, and test it to ensure it is safe for babies to consume.

Ms Oakley said: 'If an adult consumes their own milk there is no risk whatsoever.

'If anyone, at whatever age, be they a baby or a pensioner, drinks milk from another human then there is a risk of disease transmission which is why breastmilk donated to milk banks for sick and premature babies (for whom donor milk is often life saving) is screened and pasteurised.

'Of course, unpasteurised cows milk can transmit disease too which is why we pasteurise it for human consumption.

'So, anyone drinking milk from another human needs to consider the source (is the donor healthy) and may want to pasteurise the milk which can be done at home.'

Breast milk has also attracted an online reputation as a bodybuilding superfood, under the disputed logic that if it helps babies put on mass quickly, then the same should be true for people.

Others have even said it has helped keep them cancer-free, a health claim with very little evidence.

The NHS says that any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial, but 'exclusively' feeing your baby breast milk for their first six months of life offers 'a lot more protection'

However, experts have dismissed the idea of breast milk as being a superfood for athletes.

Breast milk is low in protein, high in fat, and contains high amounts of lactose which many people can't digest  making it a poor supplement for bodybuilding.

One expert even said 'there's nothing specific in it that will cause adults to gain muscle'.

The cancer claims are based on some preliminary studies suggesting that a type of protein in breast milk may be able to kill some cancer cells.

Not all breast milk contains the same nutritional values.

In fact, the composition of breast milk varies according to a 2016 report, which shows there are changes between feeds across the day and between different women, which is dependent on how the baby is growing and developing.

First breast milk, known medically colostrum, is rich in compounds that boost the immune system then as then across the next few weeks the milk develops to contain more nutrients, according to Sarah Steele, a researcher at the University of Cambridge.

In The Conversation she explains mature milk provides about 70 calories per 100g, which consists of about 4g of fat, 7g of carbohydrate and 1g of protein.
Veterans Chris Luna and Carl Arnold eat steak dinners beside a Delta 8 vending machine located in the Tomball VFW Post 2427 on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023 in Houston, TX. Research has suggested delta-8 is less potent than marijauna. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

As Texas continues to grapple over whether the recreational use of marijuana should be legalized and whether its medical marijuana program should be expanded, many state residents have turned to other options.

Those alternatives include delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a hemp derivative that provides a soothing effect similar to marijuana and is typically sold in the form of edibles, vape cartridges, tinctures and other products.

But exactly how do its effects compare to marijuana?

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Research has suggested that delta-8 is less potent than classic delta-9 THC, the major psychoactive compound in cannabis. Its sometimes referred to as marijuanas younger brother, said Leslie Ohayon, the owner of the Houston CBD business Sacred Leaf Wellness Studio.

The majority of Ohayans customers are over age 40 and use delta-8 products for pain management or anxiety, or as an alternative to medications such as opioids. Some are veterans who use delta-8 for post-traumatic stress disorder, she said.

Will delta-8 get you high?

Delta-8 causes a high, but Ohayan said its more of a body high that can help customers with pain management or inflammation. It does cause a head high, too, but not to the level of marijuana, she said.

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Marijuana, obviously, is medicinal. But a lot of people dont want to get stoned to get its medicinal benefits, Ohayan said. Delta-8 will get you high, but its not as intense.

Zach Jones, the co-owner of Houston CBD Supply, said many in the industry believe delta-8 is roughly 70 percent as potent as the same quantity of delta-9. But it does have psychoactive effects, so Jones recommends treating it like other substances that cause impairment.

Its definitely a psychoactive product, he said. It should be used, in my opinion, in the comfort of your home.

Ohayan said she works to ensure each customer is experiencing the intended effects by providing each with a recommended dosage thats based on their body weight. She said she generally recommends starting with a smaller dosage.

My whole method that I preach to my customers is that you can always take more, but you cant go back, she said.

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Who is buying delta-8?

Jones said he initially anticipated that customers seeking out delta-8 would be younger individuals looking for a legal alternative to marijuana. But like Ohayan, he found many were older and looking for something to manage pain or help them sleep.

The majority of our customer base on that side of things is a lot older, a lot of veterans, he said. A lot of people whove been dealing with a lot of pain for a long, long time.

While delta-8 is legal, both Jones and Ohayan cautioned that it will show up on a drug test. The National Drug Court Institute recommends avoiding it if youre going to be drug tested.

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Delta-8 is currently legal in Texas

Delta-8 has exploded in popularity since 2019, after the passage of a federal law reclassified hemp as an agricultural commodity. Texas and other states then legalized hemp production.

The law set a limit of a 0.3 percent concentration of delta-9 in hemp products. It did not put on a limit on delta-8.

More than a dozen states have blocked the sale of delta-8, citing a lack of research into its psychoactive effects. The Texas Department of State Health Services is engaged in an ongoing legal battle over delta-8, but veterans who rely on the drug are among its biggest proponents.

Because delta-8 products are not regulated by the federal government, their quality can vary based on the producer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it has received reports of adverse effects related to delta-8 products, and a University of Rochester Medical Center study found some delta-8 products contained harmful byproducts.

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Jones said he is wary of overregulation but is generally supportive of any standards that are designed to ensure delta-8 products are safe for consumers.
A man was left in extreme pain after shoving a sim card extractor tool, electrical cable and a rubber band into his penis.

The 48-year-old, from Indonesia, told doctors that he'd never inserted any 'foreign objects' before.

He sought help after he found it increasingly difficult to urinate, telling medics he was left 'dribbling'.

Blood and urine tests suggested the unidentified man had kidney failure and a UTI.

Doctors revealed the unidentified 48-year-old waited six months before seeking medical attention for his eye-watering injury. But the man from Indonesia, who had not previously been diagnosed with any mental health condition, did not confess why he used the tool in the first place

An X-ray of his pelvis then showed an opaque object and a 'shadow' resembling a wire lodged inside him.

Doctors say the presence of the metal object saw him develop a bladder stone  which can cause the painful symptoms he suffered.

Surgeons who removed the stone, which measured 5 x 3cm, said the sim card tool was as its 'core'.

What is sounding? And why can it be dangerous? Sounding is when men insert items into the opening of the penis to enhance their sexual pleasure. It usually involves specially designed tools made from glass or metal. Doctors at clinic International Andrology London said there has been a 'dramatic increase' in the number of men having urethral problems due to sounding as men 'look to expand their sexual activities and enhance their sexual experiences'. Men interested in the practice should understand the risks and purchase equipment from reputable businesses and ensure they do it hygienically. But they warned the practice can damage the sensitive tissue in the urethral pathway, which releases urine and sperm. It can also lead to a lack of bladder control and infection. And the penis and urethra may even require surgery or implants to rebuild sensitive tissue. Source: International Andrology London Advertisement

Follow-up inspections revealed he had a 10cm electrical cable and 8cm needle tied with a rubber band inside him, too.

Both objects were also removed.

The man, described as sexually active, had no documented psychiatric disorders when he originally sought medical help.

'Furthermore, he denied any history of self-insertion of foreign objects,' doctors at the Dr Soetomo General-Academic Hospital, Surabaya in East Java wrote in medical journal Radiology Case Reports.

Psychiatrists later diagnosed the man with an adjustment disorder  an emotional reaction to a stressful event or life change.

They did not explain what was to blame for his reaction, however.

They prescribed him antipsychotics, drugs which reduce and control the symptoms of mental health conditions including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

CT scans later confirmed his ureter was enlarged and he had hydronephrosis, when one or both kidneys become stretched and swollen because urine fails to drain properly.

He suffered no lasting damage and could reportedly urinate normally again just a week after the procedure.

He returned for a follow-up appointment six weeks later, where he claimed not to have any complications and kidney function appeared normal.

Writing in the journal, doctors said instances of retrieving objects stuck in either the bladder and urethra are fortunately rare.

But they added: 'Further research and publication are needed to better understand these intriguing cases and improve their management.'

Sounding is when men insert items into the opening of the penis to enhance their sexual pleasure.

It usually involves specially designed tools made from glass or metal.

Doctors at clinic International Andrology London said there has been a 'dramatic increase' in the number of men having urethral problems due to sounding as men 'look to expand their sexual activities and enhance their sexual experiences'.
The illness has affected at least 164 people, mainly children aged four to 13

ases have all been logged in the city of Sokoto in the north-west of the country

Four people have been killed and dozens sickened by a 'strange' illness in Nigeria.

All of the cases have occurred in Sokoto, in the north-west of the country, close to the border of Niger.

Concerned health chiefs have now been dispatched to the area to investigate the nature of the illness.

Details on what the actual disease is are scarce.

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Local media reported people have been struck down with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, sudden weight loss and abdominal swelling.

The deaths have all been recorded from March 21.

In total, 164 cases  mainly involving children aged between four and 13  across the area have been logged.

Of these, four patients were hospitalised.

Another 130 have received treatment either at home or in local primary care centres.

At a press briefing in the country's capital Abuja on Tuesday, director general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) Dr Jide Idris, said 'notably this is not the first occurrence', according to the Nigerian Observer.

He added: 'A similar incident was documented in 2023. That one went without a conclusive diagnosis.

Cases have all been logged in the city of Sokoto (pictured), in the north-west of the country, close to the border of Niger. Concerned health chiefs have now been dispatched to the area to investigate the nature of the illness

'Results indicate varying levels of lead and chromium in blood samples, prompting scrutiny of local activities such as mining and agricultural practices involving chemical usage.'

However, he noted: 'The collaborative efforts extend beyond health institutions, encompassing government agencies, research bodies, and community stakeholders.

'At the moment, security challenges hamper access to affected areas, complicating response efforts.'

Communities affected by the outbreak should be vigilant, he urged, and report any potential symptoms immediately to local health centres.

Nigeria has recently been hit by outbreaks of Lassa fever, with more than 150 deaths recorded across the nation since January.

The rodent-borne disease is thought to cause no symptoms in 80 per cent of patients and kill just one per cent of those it infects.

People usually become infected with Lassa fever after exposure to food or household items contaminated with urine or faeces of infected rats.

But the virus, which can make women bleed from their vagina and trigger seizures, can also be transmitted via bodily fluids.

Last year, the country also battled a deadly diphtheria outbreak, killing more than 600 people mainly children.

The highly contagious bacterial infection mainly affects the nose and throat. It can also infect the skin, causing painful lesions.
Cats and dogs harbour potentially deadly antibiotic-resistant superbugs that they can pass to their owners, a study suggests.

Researchers warn the bacteria can spread between pets and healthy humans by petting, touching or kissing and through the handling of faeces.

Owners should wash their hands after touching their pet or clearing their waste and isolate sick animals in a single room, they add.

Scientists from the University of Lisbon issued the alert after analysing faecal and urine samples and skin swabs taken from cats, dogs and their owners in the UK and Portugal.

Many were found to be infected with matching bacterial strains, raising concerns that pets can act as reservoirs of resistance.

A study has found evidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria being passed between sick cats and dogs and their healthy owners in Portugal and the UK

The World Health Organisation classes antibiotic resistance as one of the greatest public health threats facing humanity.

Drug-resistant infections already kill more than 1.2 million people a year globally, with this figure projected to rise to 10 million by 2050 if no action is taken.

Researchers looked for Enterobacterales - a large family of bacteria which includes E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae - resistant to common antibiotics.

Their study, which will be presented at the ESCMID Global Congress, in Barcelona, Spain, later this month, involved five cats, 38 dogs and 78 humans from 43 households in Portugal and 22 dogs and 56 humans from 22 households in the UK.

All of the pets had skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) or urinary tract infections (UTI) and all the humans were healthy.

Antibiotic resistance is reaching dangerously high levels around the world. Drug-resistant infections kill more than 1.2 million people a year globally

In five Portuguese households, one home with a cat and four with dogs, both pet and owner were carrying the same strains of Enterobacterales, indicating it had passed between pet and owner.

In one of these five households, a dog and owner also had the same strain of antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.

In two UK households, both dog and owner were carrying the same Enterobacterales.

Many more pets were infected when their owners were not.

In cases of co-infection, it was not possible to prove the direction of transmission, however, in three of the homes in Portugal, the timing of the positive tests for Enterobacterales strongly suggest that, in these cases at least, the bacteria were being passed from pet to human.

Researcher Juliana Menezes said: Recent research indicates that the transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) bacteria between humans and animals, including pets, is crucial in maintaining resistance levels, challenging the traditional belief that humans are the main carriers of AMR bacteria in the community.

Understanding and addressing the transmission of AMR bacteria from pets to humans is essential for effectively combating antimicrobial resistance in both human and animal populations.

Our findings underline the importance of including pet-owning households in national programmes that monitor levels of antibiotic resistance.

Learning more about the resistance in pets would aid in the development of informed and targeted interventions to safeguard both animal and human health.

She added: When your pet is unwell, consider isolating them in one room to prevent the spread of bacteria throughout the house and clean the other rooms thoroughly.
READ MORE: Five ways to boost your gut health , according to a dietitian

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist in California, took to TikTok to share why shopping makes you poop

A Harvard-trained doctor has revealed why shopping trips are more likely to have you running for the bathroom.

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist in California, took to TikTok to share that it's not just your imagination: going shopping really does set off a signal in your bowels.

In the video, which has over 30,000 views, Dr Sethi said: 'Let me explain. This phenomenon is known as the Mariko Aoki phenomenon, which was first described in Japan in 1985.'

'A lot of my patients have shared with me that they have also experienced the same thing.'

The term is named after a woman who wrote in a Japanese magazine that every time she wandered around in a bookstore, she had a sudden urge to use the restroom.

Dr Sethi said that this sudden urge is called the Mariko Aoki phenomenon. The term is named after a woman who wrote in a Japanese magazine that every time she wandered around in a bookstore, she had a sudden urge to use the restroom

Some researchers theorize that the smell of coffee and books in stores like Barnes & Noble can stimulate a bowel movement

According to McGill University, several readers wrote in and said they had experienced the same thing. The magazine published a follow-up piece with the headline, 'shaking the bookstore industry.'

While it's unclear what exactly about a Barnes & Noble or Target triggers Mariko Aoki, Dr Sethi suggested it could be due to certain spells like books or coffee.

The caffeine in coffee, for example, has been shown to stimulate contractions in the colon and speeds up digestion - even if you don't drink it.

Additionally, roasted coffee contains compounds like chlorogenic acid, which triggers higher stomach acid levels, forcing the stomach to dump out its contents faster than normal.

This could explain why walking past the coffee bar at Barnes & Noble or the Starbucks popup in Target could lead you to the bathroom.

As for books, one theory is that the smell of ink and paper has a natural laxative effect, though this hasn't been thoroughly studied.

Other research suggests that leaning forward or being hunched over, such as while shopping for books, massages the digestive organs and leads to an easier time passing a bowel movement.

Dr Sethi also noted that feeling relaxed  or anxious  by shopping can bring this feeling on.

When you're feeling anxious, your gut produces higher levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which sends messages between nerve cells in the brain and the rest of the body.

This increased serotonin can cause colon spasms that trigger a bowel movement.

Dr Sethi said that some people 'even visit specific stores daily to make their bowels move.'

TikTok users flocked to the comments to share their own experiences.

'Happen with me every time I am shopping, a user named Nora said.

Someone else commented: 'Its probably just from walking around for some people who arent active.'

'Library in college always did it to me. Regular as a clock,' a user named Terry added.

Another user said: 'Greeting card shopping. Every single time.'
Far-left Senator Bernie Sanders has proposed a massive investment in research into long Covid, a condition that many experts remain unconvinced is the great public health threat people claim.

Sanders, from Vermont, hopes to establish a $10 billion long Covid moonshot project to speed up research and create a long Covid patient database for doctors to share information with each other.

His proposal would also create a centralized committee partly made up of actual long Covid patients to oversee research grant disbursements and the status of the research the government is funding.

The CDC said in 2022 that seven percent of Americans reported having ever experienced long Covid, around 18 million.

But doctors have said that overly broad definitions of the conditionan umbrella term for some 200 different symptoms has led to a great over-exaggeration of the risks and how common it is, leading to many misdiagnoses.

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Sen Sanders' proposed long Covid moonshot would allocate $1 billion over 10 years to research and development of treatments. The proposal is still in committee, though, and will need to advance before it goes to the full floor for a vote

Long Covid is a constellation of symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, headache, trouble sleeping, changes in smell or taste, neck pain, constipation, irregular heartbeat, and many more.

However, many experts have said the long-term symptoms some patients experience following infection are no different from those caused by other viruses, such as flu.

A recent study found that patients who'd been hospitalized for flu were far more likely to seek medical care for certain conditions than those who'd had hospital treatment for a Covid-19 infection.

They also found those who were hospitalized for flu were nearly twice as likely to receive treatment for a neurological disorder in the following year, compared to their Covid patient counterparts.

An Australian physician previously told DailyMail.com that the designation long Covid can cause unnecessary fear, and in some cases, hypervigilance to longer symptoms that can impede recovery.'

Last year, scientists from the UK, US and Denmark looked at the definition of long Covid by a number of global health organizations, including the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

They found any new symptoms occurring after a confirmed or suspected Covid infection could be considered consistent with long Covid, resulting in more than 200 symptoms associated with it.

Many doctors are unconvinced that long Covid as a condition in and of itself exists, instead believing that different symptoms could signify a number of other diagnoses, such as hypertension, diabetes, lupus, and even cancer.

But with millions of Americans reporting similar symptoms for weeks to months after recovering from Covid, and a cost of about $11,000 per person in the form of lost earnings and medical spending, the federal government has deemed long Covid a crisis.

Senator Sanders, who released a draft of his proposal this week, said: In my view, the time is long overdue for Congress to treat Long COVID as the public health emergency that it is.

Congress must act now to ensure a treatment is found for this terrible disease that affects millions of Americans and their families.

The proposal aims to expedite the research and treatment development process by speeding up the amount of time it takes to review, approve, and distribute grant money to scientists.

In addition to including a major boost in funding for long covid research over 10 years, the moonshot would give doctors better tools to diagnose patients by establishing a database of patient symptoms, which aims to improve diagnostics.

Limited evidence about long Covids prevalence, how it affects different organ systems, what exactly causes it, and to what extent certain patients symptoms could be chalked up to fear and anxiety about it have made doctors hesitant to use the term.

Patients have claimed they often have had to convince doctors their symptoms were real, describing feelings of being gaslit by doctors who dont believe them.

Sen Sanders said: Far too many patients with Long COVID have struggled to get their symptoms taken seriously. Far too many medical professionals have either dismissed or misdiagnosed their health problems. That has got to change.

We cannot turn our backs on the millions of Americans who continue to suffer from Long COVID. I look forward to hearing from patients, experts, and researchers about what we must do to address this crisis.

There are no specific treatments yet for long Covid, something Sen Sanders hopes his moonshot initiative could change within a year or so of being implemented.

The proposal is still in the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, which Sen Sanders Chairs, and will need to pass out of that committee before it can get a vote on the floor of the Senate, where Democrats hold a razor thin majority.
More questions are being raised about Dr Anthony Fauci's ties to the Covid lab leak theory after the release of a tranche of new emails.

The former White House advisor, 83, was hit with a series of new allegations this week including that he secretly conspired with the CIA to squash debate about the origins of the virus.

Leaked documents also showed that Dr Fauci's top aide intentionally tried to hide his discussions about the virus's genesis by using his personal email.

And now new messages show Dr Fauci was engaged in some form of 'damage control' at the time his department was being probed about funding to the Chinese laboratory feared to have started the pandemic.

The April 2020 email, sent between Dr Fauci's aide and a third-party group who distributed government grants to China, suggests they were concerned about backlash coming from the probe.

Dr Anthony Fauci (speaking to DailyMail.com in July 2023)

Dr Peter Daszak (pictured left alongside Dr Anthony Fauci) is behind EcoHealth Alliance at the center of concerns over the origins of Covid

EcoHealth Alliance, headed by Dr Peter Daszak, helped fund research at the Wuhan lab using grants from Dr Fauci's department, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID).

The lab had enjoyed part of a $3.3 million in US taxpayer funds since 2014 to conduct experiments on bat coronaviruses.

At the end of 2019, the virus that would eventually spark a global pandemic emerged in Wuhan with early cases linked to a seafood market just eight miles away from the lab.

In April 2020, when 787,000 Americans had gotten sick and 42,000 had died of Covid, EcoHealth hit a regulatory snag.

Dr Michael Lauer, the NIH Deputy Director for Extramural Research, communicated to EcoHealth at the time that its grant funding for the now-infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology would be placed on hold.

The funding would not be reinstated until EcoHealth could fulfill a long list of criteria, including to provide the sample of coronavirus that the lab used to sequence what soon became a global pandemic and to share with NIH how the lab responded to concerns raised by the State Department in 2018 about lab safety.

Pictured: The Wuhan Institute of Virology, where scientists engineered viruses

Lauer also wanted to find out why WIV didn't mention that the RaTG13 virus, similar to SARS-CoV-2, was found in a mine where people got sick a Covid-like illness in 2012, and why they didn't follow up on this.

Dr Lauer further required EcoHealth Alliance to set up an independent inspection team to check WIV's facilities and records, especially to see if they had the SARS-CoV-2 virus before December 2019.

The team would be asked to review all of WIV's fieldwork, like collecting animals and samples from caves or outdoor areas.

In newly-published emails between President Peter Daszak and NIAID senior scientific adviser Dr David Morens, who worked closely with Dr Anthony Fauci, the two discussed the government's guidelines for conducting research on viruses called the Strategic Plan for Covid-19 Research.

Daszak insisted that the research being conducted in Wuhan satisfied government regulations for safe experimentation.

But the disruption in funding apparently troubled Dr Fauci, who led the department charged with dispersing grants to organizations like EcoHealth.

At the time, Dr Fauci had also been under growing fire over what he knew and didn't know about the origins of the devastating virus.

Dr Morens wrote to Daszak: 'Even while remaining silent you should be clearly documenting these things for potential future use, in your own defense, and for history.

'Tony [Fauci] is now fully aware I think and is I am told involved in some sort of damage control, but again I am not in the loop.'

This is around the same time Dr Fauci is reported to have taken clandestine trips to CIA headquarters in Virginia off the record to meet with Covid investigators and, according to Senate Republicans, 'influence' the Covid origins investigation.

Peter Daszak, for his part, now maintains that there was nothing suspicious in the emails when read in their entirety, and show that EcoHealth 'was appropriately communicating with senior staff at the NIH, or who formerly worked at NIH, to try to identify ways to reinstate a grant that had been terminated unexpectedly and arbitrarily, then suspended with onerous conditions.'
Controversial tax rebate agent Brooksdale is preparing to enter liquidation, leaving questions for the customers whose tax refunds are currently in its hands.

The firm will hold a virtual meeting of creditors today, 12 April, to discuss and vote on a potential creditors voluntary liquidation, This is Money has learned.

These agreements happen when a company cannot pay its debts, and enough of the firm's shareholders agree that a creditors voluntary liquidation should happen.

It represents the start of the process of winding down the firm, which will concern those who are waiting for rebate cheques to be sent to them by Brooksdale.

Brooksdale's business involves seeking tax rebates from His Majesty's Revenue and Customs on behalf of customers, but it charges them a 48% commission

Brooksdale's business involves seeking tax rebates from His Majesty's Revenue and Customs on people's behalf, and charging the recipients a fee of up to 48 per cent of the amount owed. It works on a no-win, no-fee basis.

It specialises in securing tax refunds for those who received compensation when they were mis-sold payment protection insurance, payday loans and packaged bank accounts, and were then wrongly taxed on the original payout.

It also handles claims for marriage tax allowance, uniform allowance and work from home allowance.

Those owed tax refunds are able to apply to HMRC directly and free of charge by filling out the necessary forms, which are available on the Government website.

Brooksdale has previously stated to customers that once secured, tax rebates are paid within 12 weeks.

However, some wait much longer and This is Money has previously reported on a customer of Brooksdale waiting for more than a year to be paid the refund that Brooksdale had secured on their behalf.

Brooksdale has proposed that Manchester-based firm Fortis Insolvency handles the liquidation, though it will not be formally appointed unless creditors at the meeting vote to approve the appointment.

It is unclear whether all customers whose money is currently in Brooksdale's hands are being counted as creditors of the firm.

Do you have money with Brooksdale? Get in touch: helen.crane@thisismoney.co.uk

This is Money understands that Brooksdale has provided Fortis with a list of creditor names and addresses, which does include some tax rebate customers.

The people on that list were posted letters telling them about today's meeting.

However, any Brooksdale creditor is entitled to attend and vote at the virtual meeting, whether or not they have received a letter.

A notice was posted on The Gazette about the Brooksdale meeting, but it is not clear from the what time the meeting will be held at.

Brooksdale is one of around 200 tax rebate agents in the UK, which are collectively used by around 500,000 taxpayers every year.

The business model has proved controversial because of the high fees charged for a service that customers could perform for free themselves.

There has also been questions over how the firms get customers' details, and whether customers are fully aware of what they are signing up to.

Some customers report getting a letter from a tax rebate firm saying they are seeking a refund from HMRC on their behalf, without realising they had given them the authority to do so.

This is Money contacted Fortis Insolvency, and a representative said the firm had not been appointed as liquidators, and would only comment if they were appointed.

Brooksdale could not be reached for comment.
Whistleblowers from the Washington D.C. National Guard will tell Congress that Donald Trump did want them deployed during the Capitol riot and the Army delayed telling them to mobilize in a bombshell hearing next week.

DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal that at least three officers will appear Wednesday before a House subcommittee to claim their stories were also ignored by the Democrat-led January 6 committee, because it didn't fit their narrative.

The hearing will aim to further prove that Acting Defense Secretary at the time Christopher Miller did give advance approval of D.C. National Guard deployment at the direction of then-President Donald Trump.

A person familiar with the review by the House Administration Committee's Oversight Subcommittee said the whistleblowers will provide testimony that then-Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy delayed by at least two hours providing official notice to D.C. National Guard Commander William Walker to deploy troops to the Capitol.

Three D.C. National Guard officers on duty on January 6, 2021 will testify in the House on Wednesday regarding the breakdown in Military communication that led to hours-long delays in mobilization for the Capitol attack

The whistleblowers will speak with Chairman Barry Loudermilk's House Administration Committee's Oversight Subcommittee, which is tasked with reviewing the investigation done by the Select Committee on the January 6 Attack

Instead of getting to the bottom of the breakdown in communication and focusing on improving Military preparedness for future incidents, the witnesses feel the January 6 panel was solely focused on pinning blame for the events that day on Trump.

The officers, who were with Walker the day of the Capitol riot, will detail how they were on buses in full tactical gear for hours waiting for the go-ahead from the Army.

McCarthy has stated under oath that he did give a timely order for deployment of the D.C. National Guard  but Walker's troops said they found out about mobilization during a press conference, which led to a three-hour-and-19-minute delay of forces arriving at the Capitol.

Some suggest that McCarthy was vying for a spot in President Joe Biden's incoming administration and didn't like the optics of it looking like the Army, under his command, was trying to interfere or inhibit certification of the 2020 presidential election results.

The hearing on Wednesday is titled 'Three Years Later: D.C. National Guard Whistleblowers Speak Out on January 6 Delay' and aims to examine whether Trump was at fault for the delay in National Guard deployment.

Additionally, the whistleblowers will reveal how the January 6 Committee did not want to hear their testimony because it corroborated Trump and his allies' claims that the former president did authorize the National Guard days in advance to respond to any violence or unrest on January 6, 2021.

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.) is chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee, which is tasked with reviewing the January 6 Committee's investigation into the Capitol riot.

Last month, Loudermilk released a transcript of a never-before-seen interview with Tony Ornato, the man in charge of Trump's security detail on January 6, 2021. In the interview with the panel, Ornato confirmed that Trump did authorize the National Guard for mobilization and deployment to D.C. that day.

The bombshell release of that interview reveals flaws in the January 6 committee's argument that Trump wanted to stoke chaos that day by not allowing National Guard troops to respond to the scene at the Capitol.

Loudermilk's panel is concerned with making sure that security of the U.S. Capitol complex is nonpartisan and that readiness is not affected by partisan politics.

Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund and DC National Guard leader Maj. Gen. Walker said that Army Lt. Gen. Walter Piatt (ret.), who was Army Staff Director at the time of the riot, delayed or ignored Sund's request for National Guard support.

They accused Piatt of saying: 'I don't like the visual of the National Guard standing a police line with the Capitol in the background.'

The D.c. National Guard whistleblowers will be able during Wednesday's hearing to corroborate this despite Piatt testifying under oath that he never mentioned optics.
A once wealthy bustling Pennsylvania town is now one of the nation's most famous ghost towns - with an underground fire that started more than 60 years ago still burning today.

Founded in 1866 in Centralia, Pennsylvania, was known for its local coal mines. The town reached its peak population in the 1890s, with 2,800 residents, two theatres, multiple hotels, and 14 active coal mines.

By the 1960s there were still over 1,000 residents who called Centralia home - that was until a fire ravaged the entire town.

The blaze began on May 27, 1962 when the town was conducting its yearly controlled-burn of the local landfill before Memorial Day weekend.

But the controlled fire in an out-of-commission coal mining pit was not properly extinguished and flames crept through an unsealed opening - spreading rapidly through the labyrinth of abandoned mines beneath Centralia.

Soon the subterranean blaze was impossible to contain and continues to be fueled by the abundant supply of natural coal in Columbia County to this day.

In an exclusive interview, a former resident of the now ghost town told DailyMail.com how the disaster unfolded.

Founded in 1866 in Centralia, Pennsylvania, was known for its local coal mines. The town reached its peak population in the 1890s, with 2,800 residents, two theatres, multiple hotels, and 14 active coal mines.

Colleen Dzwonczyk (pictured), 63, was born and raised in Centralia, and is one of the last surviving former residents of the town

Her father, John Coddington (pictured), was the former mayor of the town and owned a local gas station that was attached to their home.

Colleen Dzwonczyk, 63, was born and raised in Centralia, and is one of the last surviving former residents of the town.

She was not yet one year old when the mine fire occurred but has since carried out a mountain of research into the disaster - and even taught a class on it at Penn State.

She explained that their family's house was one of the few houses located in what is known as the 'impact zone,' or the houses in closest proximity to where the fire started.

Her father, John Coddington, was the former mayor of the town and owned a local gas station that was attached to their home.

She recalled that in 1979, he noticed he wasn't making the profit margins he once was and knew something was wrong.

Colleen's brother, Joseph, went down to the basement to check on the gas tanks, only to discover the walls were scorching.

He called for his father, who took the temperature of the gas in his underground containers. The gas measured to be more than 120-130 degrees above what was normal.

That year, the Coddington's closed the gas station, emptying the gas tanks and filling them up with sand.

'The whole top of the hill could have exploded,' Colleen said.

Fast forward to 1981, John and the other families in the impact zone were told that the mine fire situation was under control, but that they had to keep their windows open to allow for the flow of oxygen.

The Coddington's house was one of the few houses located in what is known as the 'impact zone,' or the houses in closest proximity to where the fire started.

In 1979, Colleen's brother, Joseph, went down to the basement to check on the gas tanks, only to discover that the walls were scorching.

Colleen said: 'I don't have a hometown anymore. There isn't a place to go back to and relive old memories'

In reality, the situation was far from contained.

Snow couldn't stick to the ground around their homes, water ran hot from cold-water taps, pipes were installed in the ground to vent the mine fire gases, and steam from heated asphalt obscured the road.

One night, Joseph and his mother were watching television in the living room when they heard a loud thump from upstairs. They found John passed out on the floor, unresponsive.

First responders saved his life by pumping oxygen into his lungs, and determined the cause to be carbon monoxide inhalation.

That same year, toxic sinkholes started to appear throughout the town, allowing for carbon monoxide and other gases to fill the residents' homes.

Notably, 12-year-old Todd Dombowski fell down a 150 foot sinkhole but was rescued by his neighbors. While the boy survived, this was the last straw for the vast majority of remaining residents, prompting a mass exodus over the next few years.

The government eventually condemned the entire Columbia County town and claimed all the real-estate through eminent domain. They even revoked the town's zip code, 17927, and today it shares one with the nearby town of Ashland.

Colleen said: 'The bottom line is it was cheaper to move everybody out then to continue attempting to put out the fire, so they went with what costed less.'

Toxic sinkholes started to eventually appear throughout the town, allowing for carbon monoxide and other gases to fill the resident's homes. Picture: 1981

The government eventually condemned the entire Columbia County town and claimed all the real-estate through eminent domain.

But despite the government spending $42 million buying residents' homes and offering relocation packages, a handful of the town's residents refused to leave.

In 1993, there were still 63 residents in Centralia.

Colleen said she believed the government handled the entire situation poorly, explaining how the houses outside the impact zone didn't have to be torn down.

'The people who moved out who weren't in the impact zone, I've seen some of them talking, and they're like, 'you know, we really didn't have to move, because when we look back at it, we weren't affected by this.''

Despite all the money being spent on trying to put out the fire and monitor the town, Colleen said no real progress was being made.

'Nothing was happening, and people could have died. There was no help for us,' she said.

She said she believes the struggle was due to 'a constant battle between the State and the Federal Government as to who was gonna pay up'.

She continued: 'I think it boils down to the fact that we were such a small town. There weren't enough votes to really matter to these people'.

Had the government continued efforts to put out the fire, Colleen said she believes it could have been extinguished.

'Every time they had to relocate something or look for more money because they ran out of money, the fire got ahead of them,' she said.

'Its frustrating when you think of how our government treated us,' she said. 'It really burned me up.'

Lamar Mervine (pictured), the former mayor of Centralia after Coddington, lived in his childhood house in the town until his final days

Despite all the money being spent on trying to put out the fire and monitor the town, Colleen said no real progress was being made

But despite the government spending $42 million buying residents' homes and offering relocation packages, a handful of the town's residents refused to leave.

In 1993, there were still 63 residents in Centralia.

Lamar Mervine, the former mayor of Centralia, lived in his childhood house in the town until his final days.

Recalling when the state approached him and his wife about relocating in 2006, he said: 'I remember when the state came and said they wanted our house. She took one look at that man and said 'They're not getting' it. This is the only home I've ever owned, and I want to keep it.'

In 2013, the remaining ten residents filed a federal lawsuit, claiming the part of the town they inhabited was safe, and that the government was after the town's coal.

After a decades-long battle with the government, they were eventually allowed to stay. The settlement gave the residents ownership of their properties until they died as well as a $349,500 payout.

It's now believed fewer than five people still live in Centralia - but that's not to say it doesn't get more than its fair share of visitors.

In recent years the town has become a huge tourist attraction for conspiracy theorists and creatives alike - inspiring the 2006 horror film 'Silent Hill,' which has since become a cult classic.

The branch of Route 61 that runs through the town was permanently closed in 1993 when it became too expensive to repair.

But the abandoned roadway later became known as Graffiti Highway as tourists turned the blank asphalt canvas into an artistic commons.

However, in 2020, Graffiti Highway saw a massive spike of visitors and trespassers, forcing Pagnotti Enterprises, the owners of the highway, to close the attraction and cover the colorful strip of road with dirt.

A before and after picture taken in 1983 (left) and 2000 (right) shows the drastic changes done to Centralia's main street, Locust Avenue that was reclaimed by the government through imminent domain after an underground coal fire has been raging throughout the town since an accident in 1962

In 2013, the remaining ten residents filed a federal lawsuit, claiming the part of the town they inhabited was safe, and that the government was after the town's coal.

It is believed that 5 residents remain in Centralia today

Smoke rises from a large crack in Pennsylvania Highway 61, caused by the underground coal fire which has been burning for almost 60 years: Picture taken 2010

A dump truck unloads a pile of dirt onto 'Graffiti Highway' outside the ghost town of Centralia, Pennsylvania in an effort to curb the spike in people visiting the local landmark during the coronavirus pandemic

The old section of Route 61 was purchased from Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation in 2018 by Pagnotti Enterprises. Despite being on private property with no trespassing allowed, illegal visitors have come out in droves to visit the local landmark's smoldering, cracked painted asphalt amid the corona virus pandemic

In the meantime the fire that burns beneath the surface of the town shows no signs of letting up. In fact, experts estimate that there is enough coal down there to fuel the fire for another 250 years.

When looking back at her time in Centralia, Colleen said she is filled with a mix of emotions.

'Its an overwhelming sadness,' said Colleen. 'I don't have a hometown anymore. There isn't a place to go back to and relive old memories.'

She sighed: 'It didn't have to be like this.'
Britain's worst fly tipper has been dubbed 'the neighbour from hell' by locals living near to his rubbish-strewn tip that set taxpayers back more than 40,000.

Maidstone Council spent significant funds over almost a decade trying to pursue Langley Beck over his 14-hecte plot at a much-loved beauty spot.

The authority started enforcement action in 2014 after it found the 14-hectare plot on the North Downs in Kent littered with broken vehicles and waste.

Beck was previously described as having a 'hoarding disorder' in a parallel contempt of court case, for which he was given a suspended prison sentence.

Now furious families who were left 'miserable' his actions have spoken out claiming the serial fly-tipper has finally moved out of the cottage near to the land he 'ruined'.

One local, a father-of-one said: 'He has been the neighbour from hell. We thought living near Boxley Woods would be tranquil and lovely. He's not been seen for quite a while which is great.

'Apparently he has moved out. He turned the area into a dump. It was like his personal landfill site. It was monstrous. Seeing the photos from overhead gives a real clear idea how bad it was.

'It's disgusting. He is so arrogant to think he does not have to do the same as everyone as well. That really annoys me.

Maidstone Council has spent significant sums and almost a decade pursuing Langley Beck over his 14-hectare plot at Boxley Woods

Langley Beck (pictured) was previously described as having a 'hoarding disorder' in a parallel contempt of court case

Beck was described as the 'neighbour from hell' by his locals living near the fly-tipping spot

The site (pictured) is located several miles outside of Maidstone in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The land - located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - is littered with broken vehicles and waste

'It's sad to see the area which is so nice be spoiled by his selfish actions. Hopefully now it can return to how lovely it was before.'

A pensioner, who lives nearby, added: 'I'm glad to see action is being taken. It's been like a dumping ground for far too long now.

'I have also heard he has left the area and I hope he never comes back. He has been nothing but a misery.'

Beck was due to be sentenced over his plot in Boxley Woods, to the north of Maidstone in Kent, on April 5 last year, after being convicted of breaching planning regulations.

But he turned up to the hearing at Maidstone Crown Court unrepresented by a solicitor and asked for a postponement.

He said he was unable to afford representation and was waiting on his application for Universal Credit to come through.

Another hearing has been set, where Beck faces an unlimited financial fine.

Maidstone Borough Council has already spent 43,000 of taxpayers' money pursuing Beck through the courts.

Scott Stemp, prosecuting, told the Friday hearing that Beck had previously been represented at hearings by Irwin Mitchell solicitors.

But the firm has since withdrawn its services because it was not being paid.

Maidstone Borough Council started enforcement action in 2014 after he left the land (pictured) littered with rubbish

Household rubbish can be seen littered amongst the trees at Boxley Woods

Various vehicles including lorries, vans and cars can be seen at the site

An overview of the site at Boxley Woods located in the North Downs in Kent

Mr Stemp pointed out that as well as the land in dispute, Beck also owned 11 acres and a nearby cottage at Westfield Sole Farm in Harp Farm Road.

The sentencing hearing had already been postponed twice - once because of difficulties finding a courtroom, and once because Beck had failed to show up.

Beck told the judge, Mr Recorder Fowler, that it was his intention to take his case to the Court of Human Rights.

Beck said he had suffered '21 years of persecution by those dirty, lying, sons of b*****s (the council)' and he described the hearing as 'an invitation to a neck-tie party'.

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In a parallel case, in which Beck had appeared in the High Court for contempt of court, his defence had claimed that he was unfit to plead because he suffered from a 'hoarding disorder'.

That was rejected at the High Court last April by Mr Justice Sweeting, and Beck was convicted of contempt of court for failing to comply with a previous order to clear up the land and he was given a four-month prison sentence suspended for two years.

Mr Recorder Fowler said he was prepared to give Beck five weeks to find legal representation.

He said: 'I am aware that there are certain psychiatric issues that would make it undesirable for Mr Beck to speak on his own behalf.'

It is also alleged that Beck has also been living in a temporary building on the plot (pictured) without planning permission

Tyres littered amongst trees at Boxley Woods near Maidstone

Mr Beck was previously ordered to start clearing the land and move away but had continued his dumping of waste

Mr Beck has been using the site as a dumping ground for old vehicles and other items

He told Beck: 'I give you this one opportunity to get representation. But if you come back without representation, the case will proceed anyway.

'If you do not appear, a warrant will be issued for your arrest.'

Beck has also been living in a temporary building on the plot without planning permission, it was said.

He was previously banned for life from keeping animals after locking up dogs in their own filth - and failing to let ducks have water.

A Maidstone Borough Council spokesperson said: 'The Bell Lane site stretches across 36 acres and is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which has been blighted by the landowner after being littered with commercial and industrial waste for many years leaving the area contaminated as a result of illegal dumping and burning.

'The Council has worked hard to try and resolve the situation with the landowner. However, he continued to ignore requirements of Enforcement Notices to stop living on the land and the unlawful disposal of waste/car parts etc and to restore it. Therefore, the Council has had to proceed with legal action.'
With a dose of understatement that was typical of his dry sense of humour, Captain Eric Moody told his passengers and crew words that surely signalled their doom.

Speaking after his plane - British Airways Flight 009 - had flown through a cloud volcanic ash, Captain Moody said: 'Ladies and Gentlemen, this is your Captain speaking.

'We have a small problem. All four engines have stopped. We are doing our damnedest to get them under control. I trust you are not in too much distress.'

That message was, according to former air stewardess Claire O'Donnell, 'the coolest announcement that has ever been made.'

The 67-year-old, who now runs an Airbnb at her home near Basingstoke, told MailOnline how, in a way that was 'very British', all the crew on that flight in June 1982 were 'marvellous' despite the apparent certainty that they were going to die.

'It was terrifying because it was the end. It was so serious that I just thought that it was curtains. Over,' she said.

But in large part because of the skill of Captain Moody, Claire and everyone else on board - all 263 of them - lived to tell the tale.

Now, Claire, whose maiden name was Wickett, feels nothing but gratitude for Captain Moody, who died last month aged 84.

Former British Airways stewardess Claire O'Donnell (right) with colleague Lorraine Stewart standing in front of one of the engines of Flight 009 shortly after the brush with death. The plane lost all four engines after flying through a cloud of volcanic ash in 1982

Captain Eric Moody calmly told passengers and crew: 'We have a small problem. All four engines have stopped'. Above: Claire and Captain Moody with the rest of the flight crew in front of their damaged plane

'When I heard about Eric, I did stop, I did think and I did say thank you. Because without him we wouldn't be here,' she said.

Flight 009 had initially taken off from London Heathrow and was ultimately bound for Auckland in New Zealand, with stops in India, Malaysia and Australia.

In what became known as the 'Jakarta Incident', the plane appeared doomed when it flew through a cloud of volcanic ash after passing over the Indonesian city at 36,000feet.

That day, there had been eruption of the Mount Galunggung volcano south-east of Jakarta, and Flight 009 was its seemingly helpless victim.

Ash had sandblasted the aircraft and choked its engines.

Acrid smoke began filling the cabin as huge flames burst from plane's engines. Captain Moody, who had moved from his seat to stretch his legs, returned to the flight deck.

The highly-skilled airman, who was one of the first pilots ever trained on the 747, began to shut down one malfunctioning engine. Then another failed.

Then flight engineer Barry Townley-Freeman revealed the unthinkable: all four engines had failed.

The 67-year-old, who now runs an airbnb at her home near Basingstoke, told MailOnline how, in a way that was 'very British', all the crew were 'marvellous' despite the apparent certainty that they were going to die. Right: Claire with First Officer Roger Greaves from Flight 009

Captain Moody received the Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air. Above: The pilot receiving the Hugh Gordon Burge Memorial Award during the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators awards in 1982

Flight 009 was now a glider and was slowly falling from the sky. The crew realised they had less than half an hour before the plane hit the sea.

'We went from being a perfectly normal flight, we were collecting the meal trays, everyone was settling down, dim lighting, and then all of a sudden it was "oh my god what is happening", and the plane was going down,' Claire said.

The former stewardess, who was then unmarried, added: 'It was so serious you didn't need to know that something was really, really wrong.

'One thing happened after another very quickly. The masks dropped down, the cabin filled with smoke. Everyone was on oxygen.

'You just go into an emergency drill, put on your oxygen, go around reassuring passengers. I had a baby in my section. We made sure they had masks on.

'Everyone was very good. The passengers were really sensible. We had some New Zealanders and Australians. They were very level.'

She added: 'On the whole people were brilliant but they were terrified. I seriously thought this is the end.

'Honestly, you just replay how you feel in your mind. "I'm 25, I've had a pretty good life, but it is coming to an end."

'I moved three really nice men to my emergency exit.

He was responsible for famously saving the lives of 263 people when in June 1982 all four engines of a Boeing 747 he was piloting stopped mid-air when it flew through an ash plume over Jakata

Captain Eric Moody died peacefully in his sleep, aged 84, at his home in the UK this week

A photo of terrified passengers on the plane with oxygen masks held to their mouths

'I thought obviously we are going down, either we are going to crash down or we are going to ditch and you need all the help you can get at the emergency doors.

'So that seemed a logical thing to do. They were brilliant. Very cool.'

Claire went about trying to reassure as many passengers as she could.

Only one, an American in Club class, was 'really out of order' by demanding to see the Captain, she said.

'It wasn't a case of running around like headless chickens. It was stay in your area.

'Just look after people and reassure. I remember being really calm and walking down the aisles and looking at everyone, nodding at them.

'My knees were knocking but it didn't show. That is what I remember more than anything, is really tying to keep a cool head. But my knees were wobbling.'

The chief steward, Graham Skinner, was communicating with passengers using a megaphone, trying to keep them calm despite knowing in his gut that hope was lost.

'I think what was frightening, every time they tried to start the engines, they flared. It was like a huge burst of flames,' Claire added.

Passenger Betty Tootell, who was on the flight with her 80-year-old mother Phyl and went on to marry the man sitting in front of her, had the same memory.

Claire and Captain Moody at a party put on my Lloyd's of London after their ordeal

Writing in her 2009 book about the experience, she said: 'There were huge flames coming out of all four engines. You were plagued by questions: Are we going to burn to death?

'Are we going to choke to death on the smoke? What's causing it? What are they going to do about it?'

Captain Moody decided to turn the crippled aircraft back towards the closest airport, just outside Jakarta.

But he knew that without at least one functioning engine, they would not make it.

And because some oxygen masks had not worked due to the loss of cabin pressure, the pilot took drastic action.

He forced his plane into a nosedive, making it drop 6,000feet in one minute so it could reach an altitude where there was enough oxygen in the outside atmosphere to fill the cabin.

Unexpectedly, this action almost certainly saved the lives of everyone on the plane.

Suddenly, the fourth engine roared back into life. After the plane fell past 13,000 feet, another engine started working again, followed by the other two.

Although the crew were euphoric, one of the engines then failed again, making their worries return.

With three engines still working, the plane closed in on the airport.

How the Daily Mail reported Captain Moody's heroics in 1982

But the plane's windshield glass had been damaged by the ash cloud and landing equipment on the ground that should have helped them was not working.

Captain Moody needed all his skill - and the help of First Officer Roger Greaves and the engineer - to land the aircraft safely.

The passengers, saved from apparent certain death, cheered and clapped.

'The relief was afterwards when we landed. That was the moment the passengers couldn't believe it. It was lovely to see them all get off. Shaken but very elated,' Claire said.

'We as crew were exhausted but couldn't believe our luck that we landed.

'I remember the next day, we went back to the airfield to look at the plane. We just couldn't believe the damage that was done to it.

'The paintwork was stripped off. The windows were opaque.'

Despite the stress of the ordeal, Claire - who began working for BA on her 21st birthday in 1978 - was back in the air within a week.

On her return flight, she said the pilot of the plane had an 'error of judgement' and the aircraft was left 'badly damaged' on the tarmac in Nairobi.

'I said you know what, this is ridiculous. I said to BA I quite fancy going home for a couple of weeks. I remember them letting me,' she said.

Despite the second near miss, Claire opted to continue her career as a stewardess for another decade.

She did however stop the flying lessons she had been having in a light aircraft.

Claire has two grown-up children and lives with her husband David (both pictured)

'I was like "no, no I do not need to learn to fly". You realise that all their training, it may be mundane, but when it goes wrong, that's when you need the good ones.

'In our case, Eric Moody and the team were brilliant. That's when they stack up and are amazing.'

Despite the fact that Claire lived only a few miles away from Captain Moody in his later life, she found out about his death via a friend living in Australia.

'Eric was literally seven miles up the road from me and I didn't know he had died,' the mother-of-two said.

'It gave me pause for thought. I did sit quietly and just think of him and be grateful. Because he gave me extra time that I might not have had.'

Captain Moody told The Times in 2010 that finding a way to rescue Flight 009 was 'a bit like negotiating one's way up a badger's a**e.'

For his heroism, the pilot received the Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air.

Claire, who gave up her role with BA in the early 1990s when her daughter was born, added: 'I had cancer last year. When I was diagnosed, one of the first things I thought was "I could so easily have gone at 25 and I've had this extra 40 years. I can't complain. I am still here."
Vietnam's use of the death penalty has been thrust into the spotlight after a real estate tycoon was on Thursday sentenced to be executed in one of the biggest corruption cases in the country's history.

Truong My Lan, a businesswoman who chaired a sprawling company that developed luxury apartments, hotels, offices and shopping malls, was arrested in 2022.

The 67-year-old was formally charged of fraud amounting to $12.5 billion (nearly 3 percent of the country's 2022 GDP) and handed the sentence - rare in financial crime cases and for someone as well known as Lan - today.

Vietnam and its communist government is famously secretive about its state-sanctioned executions. But while there is a lack of data, rights groups believe the country to be one of the world's most prolific executioners.

Data published in 2017 by Vietnamese media outlets - that had previously been classified - revealed 429 people had been executed between 2013 and 2016, revealing the sheer scale of the death penalty's use in the country.

This put it behind only China and Iran in its use of state executions, with the conditions on Vietnam's death row thought to be equally as barbaric.

Prisoners are not told when they will be executed and therefore kept in a state of constant suspense. When the sentence is carried out, they are dragged from their cells at 4am, strapped to a gurney, and injected with a lethal dose of drugs.

The spotlight has been thrust on Vietnam's use of the death penalty after a real estate tycoon was on Thursday sentenced to be executed. Pictured: A death row inmate is seen being led blindfolded into an execution chamber in Vietnam

In its annual reports on the death penalty around the world, Amnesty international does not include figures from Vietnam on account of a lack of data.

In its latest report - released last year - it found a spike in the use of confirmed executions globally - 825 in 2022, up from 520 in 2021.

But this does not include figures from China (where it is believed thousands are executed every year), as well as countries such as Afghanistan, North Korea, Syria - as well as Vietnam - all known to extensively use the death penalty.

Citing 'partial disclosures' from the Vietnamese authorities, however, Amnesty believes there was a rapid increase in the number of death sentences between October 1, 2020 and July 31, 2021. It also reported that 11 of the country's execution facilities were used throughout 2021.

While the rights group said no data was available on the number of executions carried out in 2022, it did have a record of more than 102 people being handed a death sentence - down from 119 the previous year.

It also said at the time more than 1,200 people were on death row in the country, including foreign nationals from nearby Laos, Cambodia, Singapore and Malaysia.

Nguyen Thi Huong, a 73-year-old Australian woman convicted of drug trafficking, is also on death row in the country.

She was sentenced to death by lethal injection in 2016 after she was accused of boarding a flight to Australia with 2.6 kilograms of heroin in 2014.

The vast majority of death sentences in the country are handed down for drug offences, Amnesty says.

In 2021, of the 119 that were issued, 93 were related to narcotics.

The front cover of a report by Vietnam Committee on Human Rights (VCHR) shows a gurney fitted with straps, reportedly used to carry out lethal injection executions in Vietnam

A death row inmate is seen eating their last meal and smoking their final cigarette

A compound used for executions is seen in Hanoi, Vietnam

Life for those on death row in Vietnam is known to be a living nightmare.

Executions are understood to take place at 4am, and prisoners are not informed in advance of their execution date, meaning they live in a constant state of fear.

According to the Vietnam Committee on Human Rights (VCHR), prisoners stay awake all night, fearing their time could come.

They only sleep at 6am when they know they are in the clear - for that day at least.

For those who are chosen to be executed, they are taken from their cells in the early hours of the morning to an execution chamber - an imposing concrete building.

According to accounts from past executions, the condemned is strapped flat on their back in a straight jacket, tied to a gurney, and injected with a lethal cocktail of deadly drugs: a lethal injection.

But unlike other countries where the death row inmate is permitted family to be present for their final moments, in Vietnam, this is not allowed.

This is according to one mother whose son - a 31-year-old salesman who was found guilty of drug trafficking - was executed in 2021.

'There is nothing that can prepare you for something like that,' Mai Linh told CNN in 2022. 'There isn't a day that goes by when I don't think about how he died.'

'The pain is unexplainable. The death penalty is a different kind of evil. One that will haunt me for the rest of my life,' she added.

VCHR has also reported in the past about seriously deteriorating conditions on death row, with some prisoners even begging to be executed as soon as possible rather than live with the terror of knowing any night could be their last.

Several prisoners are known to have committed suicide, including 35-year-old Nguyen Tien - who took his own life in prison in 2013.

VCHR has also sounded the alarm over a lack of transparency in Vietnam's legal system, inadequate access to defence council and unfair trials - factors that can all lead to wrongful convictions, and thus the wrong person being executed.

The group argued in a report in 2016 that in the country's one-party state, the judiciary is not independent, and the influence of the Communist Party on judicial proceedings is 'pervasive'.

'Judges are invariably members of the Communist Party, and are often subjected to political pressure when pronouncing verdicts,' it said in the report.

It points to the National Assembly's Standing Committee declaring that at least 71 wrongful convictions had been handed out over the three years prior to 2015.

One of those cases, VCHR highlights, was the case of 29-year-old Ho Duy Hai, who was sentenced to death in 2008.

In December 2014, the day before he was due to be executed, Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang, halted his execution.

Australian citizen Nguyen Thi Huong, 73, was sentenced to death in a Vietnamese court in 2016 after she was found guilty of trying to board a plane with more than two kilos of cocaine

Despite the known issues in Vietnam's judicial system, the country's Communist Party has long defended the use of executions, with state documents released in 2017 showing the public security ministry had approved the use of lethal injections.

Under Vietnam's criminal code, eighteen crimes are punishable by death.

These include crimes such as murder, rape of a minor under 16, terrorism, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The death sentence can also be handed to people guilty of rebellion, the embezzlement of property or receiving bribes (in the case of officials), as well as some drug-related crimes, such as trafficking or trading.

Speaking to CNN in 2022, Amnesty's death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said Vietnam's lack of transparency around its executions 'has certainly contributed to a lack of information and international spotlight on the subject.'

'We have written to the authorities seeking information, as we do for all countries that still retain the death penalty every year in preparation of our report. We did not receive any response,' she said at the time.

In the same article, the American broadcaster spoke to Ben Swanton, advocacy director of the 88 Project - an organisation advocating for free speech in Vietnam.

'Vietnam continues to execute people at an astonishing rate,' he said in 2022.

'The Vietnamese Communist Party is aware that its use of the death penalty contradicts its narrative of the country being a peaceful and harmonious society and has the potential to damage its international reputation.'

Human Rights Watch's Asia deputy director Phil Robertson told CNN that Vietnam was one of the 'worst rights-abusing states' in Southeast Asia.

'The death penalty in Vietnam is used to intimidate those who would break the law, while also showing the power of the ruling party,' he added.

Truong My Lan's sentence, therefore, could ultimately lead to unwanted attention on Vietnam's death penalty laws for the country's Communist Party.

Truong My Lan, chairwoman of Van Thinh Phat Holdings, sits during her trial at the Ho Chi Minh City People's Court in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 11 April 2024. She was sentenced to death

A panel of three hand-picked jurors and two judges rejected all defence arguments by Lan, chair of major developer Van Thinh Phat, who was found guilty of swindling cash from Saigon Commercial Bank (SCB) over a decade.

'The defendant's actions... eroded people's trust in the leadership of the (Communist) Party and state,' read the verdict at the trial in Ho Chi Minh City.

After the five-week trial, 85 others were also sentenced on charges ranging from bribery and abuse of power to appropriation and violations of banking law.

Four were given life imprisonment, while the others received jail terms ranging between 20 years and three years suspended.

Lan's husband, Hong Kong billionaire Eric Chu Nap Kee, was sentenced to nine years in prison. Her niece, Truong Hue Van, the chief executive of Van Thinh Phat, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for aiding her aunt.

Lan embezzled $12.5 billion, but prosecutors said Thursday the total damages caused by the scam now amounted to $27 billion - a figure equivalent to six percent of the country's 2023 GDP.

The court ordered Lan, 67, to pay almost the entire damages sum in compensation.

Lan and the others were arrested as part of a national corruption crackdown that has swept up numerous officials and members of Vietnam's business elite.

Lan and the others were arrested as part of a national corruption crackdown that has swept up numerous officials and members of Vietnam's business elite

She appeared to say in final remarks to the court last week that she had thoughts of suicide. 'In my desperation, I thought of death,' she said, according to state media.

'I am so angry that I was stupid enough to get involved in this very fierce business environment - the banking sector - which I have little knowledge of.'

Hundreds of people began to stage protests in the capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, a relatively rare occurrence in the one-party communist state, after Lan's arrest in October 2022.

Police have identified around 42,000 victims of the scandal, which has shocked the Southeast Asian country.

Among them is Nga, a 67-year-old Hanoi resident who told AFP Thursday that she had hoped for a life sentence for Lan so she could live to fully witness the pain her actions had caused ordinary people.

'Many people worked hard to deposit money into the bank, but now she's received the death sentence and that's it for her,' said Nga, using a pseudonym to protect her identity. 'She can't see the suffering of the people.'

Nga has so far been unable to retrieve the $120,000 she invested with SCB.

Lan was accused of setting up fake loan applications to withdraw money from SCB, in which she owned a 90 percent stake.

Police say the scam's victims are all SCB bondholders who cannot withdraw their money and have not received interest or principal payments since Lan's arrest.

Prosecutors said during the trial they had seized more than 1,000 properties belonging to her.

Lan was accused of setting up fake loan applications to withdraw money from SCB, in which she owned a 90 percent stake

Authorities have also said $5.2 million allegedly given by Lan and some SCB bankers to state officials to conceal the bank's violations and poor financial situation was the largest-ever bribe recorded in Vietnam.

Do Thi Nhan, the former head of the State Bank of Vietnam's inspection team, was sentenced to life in prison for receiving bribes. She said during the trial that millions of dollars was handed to her in Styrofoam boxes by the former CEO of SCB.

More than 4,400 people have been indicted during Vietnam's corruption crackdown, across more than 1,700 graft cases, since 2021.

A top Vietnamese luxury property tycoon - Do Anh Dung, head of the Tan Hoang Minh group - was sentenced to eight years in prison last month after he was found guilty of cheating thousands of investors in a $355 million bond scam.
This is the shocking moment UC Berkeley law students turn on their dean after he invited them over for dinner with his wife.

The viral video made rounds Wednesday, hours after the students attended the Oakland home of Erwin Chemerinsky.

The first of three dinners they planned to host, the occasion turned sour when Malak Afaneh, co-president of Berkeley Law Students for Justice in Palestine, rose to protest the school's investment in arms manufacturers for Israel.

Law school professor Catherine Fisk, Chemerinsky's wife, was filmed trying to snatch the woman's cellphone out of her hand as she filmed, pulling at her clothes, and putting her arm around her as she urged her to leave.

In a statement issued Thursday, Chemerinsky, who is Jewish, asserted that he was 'saddened' by the protest, but said he told the students his home was 'not a forum for free speech.' Others claim the duo violated the student's constitutional rights.

The viral video made rounds Wednesday, hours after UC Berkley law students were invited to the Oakland home of School of Law Dean Erwin Chemerinsky and his wife.

In a statement issued Thursday, Chemerinsky, who is Jewish, asserted that he was 'saddened' by the protest, but said he told the students his home was 'not a forum for free speech.' Others claim the duo violated the student's constitutional rights

'Please leave. No. Please leave. Please leave,' Chemerinsky can be heard telling Afaneh in the circulated footage.

The 70-year-old is seen moving toward the student with his arms folded while shouting at her.

At this point, his spouse, who teaches employment law at the Bay Area school, attempts to grab a microphone the student had produced in the professor's backyard seconds before.

After Afaneh denounced the school for having invested millions of dollars in weapons companies that supply Israel - and had just spoken the words 'as-salamu alaykum' - Fisk grabs her and tries to stop the speech in its tracks.

'It is not your house. It is my house! And I want you to leave,' she says, after being hit with the Arabic phrase that means peace and blessings to you.

At this point, Fisk's arm is on Afaneh's right shoulder and at times appearing to touch her neck.

The video then shows Fisk looking to another student who was with the demonstrator, telling her: 'Get her to leave my house!'

An argument between Afaneh, Chemerinsky, Fisk and the other woman, also a law student, ensues - one that led to statements from both Chemerinsky and Afaneh the following day.

'Please leave. No. Please leave. Please leave,' Chemerinsky - who has warned law firms against hiring some of his pro-Palestine students - can be heard telling Afaneh in the footage. The 70-year-old dean is seen moving toward the student with his arms folded while shouting at her

At this point, his spouse, who teaches employment law at the Bay Area school, attempts to grab a microphone the student had produced in the professor's backyard seconds before

After Afaneh denounced the school for having invested millions of dollars in weapons companies that supply Israel - and had just spoken the words 'as-salamu alaykum' - Fisk grabs her and tries to stop the speech in its tracks

'It is not your house. It is my house! And I want you to leave,' she says, after being hit with the Arabic phrase that means peace and blessings to you.

The video then shows Fisk looking to another student who was with the demonstrator, telling her: 'Get her to leave my house!' An argument between Afaneh, Chemerinsky, Fisk and the other woman ensues - leading to statements from Chemerinsky and Afaneh the following day

'You are not welcome,' Fisk tells Afaneh, threatening call the police.

Afaneh, in turn, tells her to do so - to which Fisk replies, 'I don't prefer to.'

She then againt tries to take the microphone from Afaneh's hands, though the activist keeps her grip.

Because of this, she is pulled a up several steps of a stairwell in the couple's backyard, as Cherminsky repeatedly shouts: 'Please leave!'

At one point during the struggle, Afaneh says, 'Forty thousand people are dying,' to which Fisk shoots back, 'I can't stop that.'

The video then shows Chemerinsky speaking to a different student, still pleading for the group to leave.

'There is a genocide going on,' one student says.

'Then don't come here!' Chemerinsky shouts back.

'This is my house. You are my guest. You're my guest. Please leave my house.'

Chemerinsky has been a vocal critic of pro-Palestinian activists at Berkeley since the October 7 Hamas attack - but his wife on Tuesday appeared to take a different stance.

The nine activists that organized the protest, Afaneh included, left shortly thereafter, both sides have confirmed,

In a separate video of the confrontation, Fink and Afaneh are seen speaking briefly about the school's spending, after a resolution passed by school last month stated it should divest itself of companies in which it owns stock that conduct business with Israel.

The resolution targets over $130 million purportedly invested in two companies in particular, General Electric and United Technologies, both which supply jobs, military equipment, and electronics to the Middle Eastern country.

But the resolution is non-binding, and one only passed by students.

Chemerinsky, the school's boss, has been a vocal critic of pro-Palestinian activists at Berkeley since the October 7 Hamas attack - but his wife on Tuesday appeared to take a different stance.

'We agree with you about what's going on in Palestine,' she is heard telling the crowd toward the end of the blowuyp.

'Then what have you done about divestment? Nothing. Nothing,' a different student says, wailing.

'We don't control the investment,' Fisk insists, before the three-minute video eventually concludes.

In an interview the next day, Afaneh said she felt assaulted by Fisk, and that she is considering pressing charges.

In an interview the next day, Afaneh said she felt assaulted by Fisk, and that she is considering pressing charges

'The aggression with which she ran at me when I said 'as-salamu alaykum,'' the law student recalled to Fox Local.

'She saw my hijab and keffiyeh, and that was a risk for her.'

Chemerinsky issued a statement that same day, in which he denounced a poster that Berkeley LSJP had shared on April 1 as antiemetic.

The poster included a caricature of him with a knife and fork and the slogan 'No Dinner With Zionist Chem While Gaza Starves!'

'I never thought I would see such blatant antisemitism, with an image that invokes the horrible antisemitic trope of blood libel and that attacks me for no apparent reason other than I am Jewish,' he claimed.

The dean added that the dinners scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday would go on as scheduled, writing, 'I hope that there will be no disruptions.... But we will have security present.

'Any student who disrupts will be reported to student conduct and a violation of the student conduct code is reported to the bar.'

In another statement, the student group pointed out how there is a difference between anti-Zionist rhetoric critical of Israel from antisemitism.

They went on to accuse Chemerinsky, a top free speech scholar, of attempting to keep a clasp on such criticism.

'Anti-Zionism is not antisemitism. The Dean conflates the two concepts, using accusations of antisemitism to delegitimize anti-Israel speech,' they wrote

'As Jewish anti-Zionists, we condemn antisemitism as we fight for the rights of Palestinian people, and simultaneously condemn attempts to weaponize the concept in service of Zionism.'

Chemerinsky issued a statement that same day, in which he denounced a poster that Berkeley LSJP had shared on April 1 as antiemetic

Chemerinsky, meanwhile, conceded he disagreed with the student groups' policies, but believed he has a right to invite only speakers who agreed with his and his wife's views.

It's not the first time the high-profile school has surfaced as a battleground for the ongoing Israel-Gaza debate.

In February, pro-Palestine activists stretched a banner opposing the 'Zionist Entity' over the south entrance of campus, preventing students from entering.

Later that month, protests comprised hundreds of students saw a speech by a right-wing Israeli lawyer called off, though he was able to return for an event March.

In March, a political science professor who is also the chair of Israel studies at the school held a two-week sit-in that saw him eat and sleep in his office after work to get Berkley brass to take 'steps to prevent violence between students.'

Chemerinsky's spouse has yet to break her silence on the incident.
The heartbroken mother of a young woman who died after inhaling up to three large bottles of nitrous oxide has called for the 'hippy crack' to be made a Class A drug.

Ellen Mercer, 24, from Gerrards Cross in Buckinghamshire, died in hospital on February 9 last year after being rushed to hospital when she lost feeling in her legs.

On Tuesday an inquest into the death of the business student, who had bipolar disorder, found that nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, in part caused her death.

Sharon Cook, 54, is calling for the government to crack down on the party drug, exclusively telling MailOnline that her daughter would still be alive today if she had been aware of its harmful effects.

Ms Cook also said she still checks her messages every day, 'thinking there will be a message from her daughter on WhatsApp or Messenger,' adding: 'I can still hear her voice.'

Ms Cook added: 'I don't think she realised how dangerous the drug was. As it was legal she was inclined to think it was safe.

Coroner Heidi Connor listed 'long term complications due to nitrous oxide abuse' among the causes of Ms Mercer's (pictured) death

Sharon Cooke (left) pictured with her daughter Ellen Mercer who died after inhaling three bottles of 'hippy crack' has called for it to become a class A drug

Ellen with her older brother Joe, who is now 27, and younger sister Daisy, now 13

Business student Ellen, 24, from Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, died in hospital on February 9 last year after suddenly becoming unwell

'I don't think she realised just how harmful it is and if she had realised she wouldn't have taken it.

'I read somewhere that there had been 56 deaths in the last few years and they weren't very well publicised, I had no idea and hadn't heard about it.

'Obviously it's heartbreaking. [The government] needs to come down harder on it and they should definitely make it a Class A drug. It is dangerous so it should be up there with heroin and cocaine. Class C is not strong enough in my book.'

Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as NOS, was made illegal last year with the Government making it a Class C drug. Users can face a community order or an unlimited fine, with repeat offenders potentially serving up two years in prison.

The drug can be used in medical settings but those caught supplying it for unlawful reasons could face 14 years behind bars.

Ms Mercer's post-mortem found she had died of bilateral pulmonary thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis, and 'long-term complications of nitrous oxide use'.

'Large blood clots' had formed in the young woman's legs before moving to the arteries in her lungs which caused a 'sudden cardiorespiratory collapse'.

In the months before her death Ms Mercer had required urgent medical care several times, including just days before on February 5 when she called the ambulance service saying she was 'unable to get up' and felt 'pain in both legs and lower back.'

The student had initially told her boyfriend not to call an ambulance as she did 'not want to lose the buzz', it was reported.

Ms Cook was unaware her daughter had been taking the drug but recalled the last time she spoke to her, Ms Mercer had complained about losing the feeling in her legs.

She told MailOnline: 'I had no idea at all [that Ellen was taking the drug]. I spoke to her a few days before she died when she said she could not walk.

'And I said go to the hospital, you must go to the hospital and then I didn't speak to her after that. That was the last time I spoke to her.

'She did go to the hospital after that the following day and she called 999 but obviously it was too late.

'I just wish she had gone sooner. If she had gone two weeks prior when she first lost the feeling in her legs she would probably still be with us now, so that is hard to think she didn't have to die.'

The grieving mother, however, does not just place the blame of her daughter's death on the Government's laws on the drug.

Ms Cook blames the failures within the mental health services, who had discharged and failed to check up on her daughter despite warnings from her mother.

She believes Ellen had been using the drug - which cause people to feel relaxed, light headed or dizzy - as a form of coping mechanism after not getting the correct support from the health service.

'I think had her mental health been more stable she would not have gone down this path with nitrous oxide. If she was in her right mind she would not have done it. So I think she was really failed by the mental health services, completely failed,' she said.

Ellen with her father who passed away in 2019

'She had bipolar and she got discharged from the mental health services before becoming ill again,' she added.

'They didn't follow her up and I rang them and asked them to go see her and they just ignored it. They didn't go see her. But she was struggling with her mental health.'

Upon her discharge from the mental health facility in April 2022, Ms Mercer was supposed to be given a higher dose lamotrigine to help treat her bipolar, however, her mother said this was never followed through.

After Ms Mercer's death, her mother said she received a letter from the NHS trust 'admitting they had failed and should have done more' to help her daughter.

Ms Cook said her daughter's mental health had declined after the death of her father when she was 19-years-old.

'She never really got over it. It hit her really hard and her grandmother had died just eight days before, so we had a double funeral. It was a really tough time,' she added.

Ms Mercer's brother, Joe, 27, also said mental health issues had also played a role in the death of his deeply 'kind and deeply caring sister'.

He told MailOnline: 'At her core, she was a very bubbly, energetic person. She was incredibly positive. Whilst drugs were involved in the situation... I think really what we are looking at here is a mental health case that didn't receive as much attention as it should have.

'People with bipolar have addictive personalities and drugs are addictive substances - the two will go hand in hand.'

Paying tribute to his younger sister, Mr Mercer added: 'She was incredibly energetic, a million miles an hour on anything she was passionate about. She was kind, caring and deeply thoughtful for people.

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'She kind of filtered between a lot of different interests but the primary focus of a lot of them was art, in any form.

'Whether that was drama or singing or writing or drawing, she tried her hand at all of them to varying degrees of success.'

Ms Mercer had been living away from her family home for almost three years when she died. She had moved in with her boyfriend in a rented flat in Woodford Green in Buckinghamshire.

She had done well at both GCSES and A Levels but had decided not to go to university because of her mental health.

Paying tribute to her daughter the day after the inquest concluded, Ms Cook said: 'She was funny, kind, caring. She was just a lovely girl. She was really into acting, singing and dancing when she was younger.

'She was really outgoing, a real extrovert. A pleasure to have around. Always 100 miles an hour but funny with it.

What are the risks of nitrous oxide? Nitrous oxide, has been nicknamed 'laughing gas' due to the euphoric and relaxed feeling people who inhale it can sometimes feel. The substance - also known as 'hippy crack' - is normally bought in pressured canisters, commonly transferred to a container, e.g. a balloon, from which the gas is inhaled. Although possession of laughing gas is not currently illegal, English law prohibits its sale to under-18s if there is a chance they will inhale it. The effects of nitrous oxide:  Feelings of euphoria, relaxation and calm.  Dizziness, difficulty in thinking straight and fits of giggles/laughter.  Sound distortions or even hallucinations.  In some people, a headache can be an unwanted immediate effect. Risks include:  Unconsciousness or death from lack of oxygen. This occurs when the available oxygen for breathing is effectively pushed out by the nitrous oxide. Advertisement

'You always knew she was in the room, you were well aware that she was around, you couldn't miss her. She really was so funny. One day she would just come rollypollying into the living room and she would just do these mad things.'

Ms Cook now lives with her son and her younger daughter Daisy, who was just 11-years-old when her older sister died.

'She misses her. It's been really hard on Daisy,' the mother, who used to work as a courier added.

The family are understandably still coming to terms with the sudden loss, but Ms Cook said they are coping as best they can.

'We are coping. It was obviously harder in the first few months,' she said. 'It has gotten easier as time has gone on but I still expect to hear from her.

'I still check my messages and think there will be a message from her on WhatsApp or Messenger. I can still hear her voice.'

Medics who tried to save her found there were 'features of neurological compromise' with later tests finding that laughing gas had left her with serious circulation and breathing problems.

Michaela Kirtley, an emergency medical technician from Phoenix Response Services, a contractor that worked for South Central Ambulance Service, attended Ms Mercer's home on February 8.

When she arrived at the scene, she was shown to the bedroom by Ms Mercer's boyfriend.

'I took notice of the room,' she said. 'There were no sheets on the bed at all. There was just the duvet, severely stained. The room was bare.'

The scene the medic had witnessed made it clear to her that she was dealing with a 'vulnerable person'.

Ms Mercer was said to have been 'talking as normal' with the only vital sign outside its normal range was her heart rate, which could have been due to anxiety.

The young woman said she had burned her legs after spilling a gas canister on them and that she had been unable to walk or go to the toilet for two weeks, she said.

According to the emergency worker the 24-year-old looked six months pregnant and the wounds on her legs were described as being filled with pus.

Ms Mecer's boyfriend then led her to a box of gas canisters, which were identified as nitrous oxide.

Laughing gas canisters discarded by the side of a road near Ebbsfleet, Kent (file photo)

Bottles of Fast Gas Litter the streets after Notting Hill Carnival (file photo)

'I had never seen such big bottles,' Ms Kirtley said.

She told the inquest that the canisters were 600g and that Ms Mercer's boyfriend said she took 'two to three bottles' per day, but had slowed down in the last couple of weeks.

Her boyfriend said she 'shouted at him' because she wanted to continue her high, when he was asked why he did not call an ambulance, according to the Sun.

At the opening of Ms Mercer's inquest in February, Berkshire coroner Hannah Godfrey said that the student 'had a history of nitrous oxide abuse'.

Between 2001 and 2020, 56 deaths in England and Wales had nitrous oxide mentioned on their death certificate.

Some deaths, however, included in medical settings so not all had been because of misuse.

In recent years, use of the drug has become an increasing problem, being one of the most abused substances with those aged 16-24.

Last summer, at Notting Hill Carnival it was reported that there were 13 tonnes of canisters containing the drug collected after the festival.

Inhaling the gas brings about short-term feelings of lightheadedness, fits of giggles and hallucinations.

Heavy, regular abuse, however, risks significant health risks including anaemia and in more severe cases, nerve damage or paralysis.

It has been identified as having potentially fatal consequences on the UK's roads from incidents of drug driving.

Nitrous oxide, however, does have legitimate uses such as being used on maternity wards during labour. It is still legal for those purposes.

Licences are not needed to carry nitrous oxide, but users will be required to demonstrate they are not intending to consume it for psychoactive effects.
New York Republican Rep. Claudia Tenney is 'frustrated' with members of Congress quitting early and has launched a new bill to ban them from taking lobbying jobs for a year after their term should end if they do so.

Existing legislation bans House and Senate members from lobbying for one year and two years respectively from the date they leave Congress, not from the date their term was supposed to end.

Tenney's bill would start the clock on a lobbying ban from the date a member agreed to serve until when they took office, not the day they leave prematurely.

'If you are elected to serve a term, we want to make sure that that term is respected,' Tenney told DailyMail.com.

Rep. Claudia Tenney is 'frustrated' with members of Congress quitting early and has launched a new bill to ban them from taking lobbying jobs for a year after their term should end if they do so

Tenney said she doesn't think lobbying bans should be 'permanent' given 'First Amendment rights,' but the bill would give 'more incentive' to members to stay on through their term.

To members who leave early and cash in, she says: 'You might be exasperated with the job but you signed on to this job. You took an oath of office.'

Tenney insisted her legislation is 'not targeted at any one person, but we just keep seeing this happen over and over and it's not the people just leaving now it's been going on for years.'

Lobbying is by far the most popular career for former members of Congress: over 400 ex-members are currently employed as such.

Rep. Mike Gallagher will be the sixth House Republican to leave early when he resigns on April 19 - a date that has become a point of contention

Former Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., left Congress on March 22, 2024

Of the former members of the 115th Congress from 2017-2019, some 60 percent are currently employed by lobbying firms or lobbying clients.

Often, members get around the one-year lobbying ban by joining firms in an 'advisory' role before transitioning to official lobbying when their ban is up.

Her legislation came at pointed timing - Reps. Ken Buck and Mike Gallagher dealt a blow to the House GOP majority by announcing their departures last month. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced his early departure in December.

Gallagher's came as a particular shock: he chairs the high-profile subcommittee on China.

Both had taken heat from the right wing of the party when they voted against impeaching Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas.

Gallagher will be the sixth House Republican to leave early when he resigns on April 19 - a date that has become a point of contention.

'If you really want to leave early, then leave early enough so that we could at least get a special election in place.

Under Wisconsin's complicated election law, Gallagher's departure date could have led to two different scenarios.

If he leaves between April 9 and May 14, a special primary and special election will be lumped together with the regular primary on August 13 and general election on November 5.

The winner of the November 5 special election could be seated as soon as House Rules allow, filling a Republican seat in the days immediately following the 2024 Election.

But if Gallagher were to leave before April 9, a special primary and special election could be called at the will of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.

The earliest Evers could hold a special election, according to Wisconsin code, is August 23. But that would run afoul with another provision of Wisconsin code: 'No special election may be held ... after August 1 preceding the general election unless it is held on the same day as the general election.'

Therefore Evers could potentially push the special election date to the same or even after the general election date on November 5.

Still, Republicans seized on Gallagher's run for the exit.

Tenney warned that without a member representing Gallagher's district, constituent services - case work - help with Social Security, veterans' or other federal benefits, immigration, getting records from federal agencies, help with grants and service academy nominations would all fall by the wayside.

'In the Gallagher situation, after April 19, no one is going to be representing this district no member of Congress is going to be going in and advocating- nobody is able to advocate really aggressively like we do.'

She praised former Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, who left because his wife was 'in grave health,' but stuck around as long as he could to ensure a smooth transition before a special election for his seat.

Tenney hasn't spoken with Gallagher since his announcement, but said she urged Buck to stay in Congress personally.

'He says he's gonna go do election integrity. I said, "Why don't you stay in congress and join my election integrity caucus?' Tenney said. 'Yeah, we didn't seem too interested in it.'

Gallagher left just after what would seem to be the pinnacle of his career: the House recently passed a bill that would require Chinese-controlled ByteDance to divest TikTok or else the popular video-sharing app would face a ban.

He is now expected to take a job with American surveillance company and defense contractor Palantir. It's not clear what his role would be with the company.

McCarthy, meanwhile has been cinching speaking gigs across the country that are likely drawing in the big bucks.
Most of Australia is set to be dry for the remainder of the week as the threat of a cyclone hitting the country's northeast significantly drops.

On Thursday morning, the Bureau of Meteorology advised that Tropical Cyclone Paul, currently sitting east of Queensland's coast, is weakening.

The system is slowly tracking northeast towards the Coral Sea and is not expected to make landfall in Queensland.

'Paul is located more than 1000 km to the east northeast of Cairns and currently poses no direct threat to the Australian mainland or any of its external territories,' Weatherzone meteorologist Ben Domensino said.

'At this stage, Tropical Cyclone Paul should weaken from Friday onwards and is expected to have wakened below tropical cyclone strength by Saturday.'

The Bureau of Meteorology on Thursday morning advised Tropical Cyclone Paul (pictured), currently sitting east of Queensland's coast, is weakening

READ MORE: Firebomb attack in ritzy Sydney suburb Advertisement

A second system, tropical low 12U, has a reduced chance of developing into a cyclone.

Meanwhile, remnants from Tropical Cyclone Olga are set to continue causing rain in Western Australia's south through the weekend.

Australia's northeast, the Northern Territory's Top End, New South Wales coast, eastern Victoria, and southwest Tasmania all have a moderate chance of seeing very light rainfall.

Despite the low rain forecast, several flood warnings remain in place in Queensland.

A major flood warning has been issued for the Balonne, Barcoo, and Warrego rivers.

The Georgina, Moonie River, Weir rivers and Eyre Creek are under a moderate flood warning while minor flooding is forecast for the Thomson River, Dawson River and Cooper Creek.

Dangerous surf conditions are expected on the Byron, Coffs, Macquarie, Sydney, Illawarra and Batemans coasts on Friday.

'Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming,' the Bureau said.

Sydneysiders are set for a mostly sunny Friday followed by partially cloudy conditions on Saturday and Sunday

Sydney

Sydneysiders are set for a mostly sunny Friday with a slight chance of a shower in coastal areas alongside light winds.

Warm weather in the city is expected to stay through the weekend with a top of 24C on Friday followed by 24C again on Saturday and 25C on Sunday.

Partial cloud coverage is set to hang over Sydney's skies on Saturday and Sunday with a chance of morning fog in the city's west.

Melbourne

Melbourne is forecast to be grey on Friday with a chance of morning fog followed by showers in the southeastern suburbs. There's a medium chance of showers throughout the remainder of the city.

The southern city will be much cooler than Sydney with a top of just 18C coupled with light winds on Friday.

Temperatures on Saturday could get as low as 12C followed by 11C on Sunday.

Showers over the city are expected to clear by Saturday for a partially cloudy weekend.

Melbourne is forecast to be grey on Friday with a chance of morning fog followed by showers in the southeastern suburbs

Brisbane

A top of 27C in Brisbane on Friday is forecast alongside mostly sunny conditions.

The city has a slight chance of seeing a shower in the late morning and afternoon with light winds reaching up to 20km/h.

Brisbane has a chance of seeing light showers on Saturday ahead of mostly sunny conditions on Sunday.

Canberra

Partially cloudy conditions are forecast for Canberra through to next week.

Light winds are expected to turn northwesterly and reach up to 20km/h early Friday afternoon.

High temperatures in the city are expected to stay in the low 20Cs while a low of 5C is forecast on Saturday followed by 9C on Sunday.

Perth

Mostly sunny conditions are forecast in Perth on Friday alongside a top of 29C.

Any clouds over the city are expected to clear for a sunny Saturday and Sunday, both with a high of 28C.

Adelaide

Adelaide's forecast is partially cloudy through to next week.

High temperatures are expected to remain in the low 20Cs over the weekend.

Darwin

Darwin is finally nearing the end of its wet season with showers over the city on Friday expected to clear on Saturday and Sunday.

High temperatures are forecast to stay in the mid 30Cs alongside lows in the mid 20Cs.

Dangerous surf conditions are expected on the Byron, Coffs, Macquarie, Sydney, Illawarra and Batemans coasts on Friday

Hobart

Partial cloudy skies over Hobart on Friday are expected to grow greyer on Saturday.

Tasmania's capital will stay relatively cool with highs of 19C and 20C coupled with lows of 12C.
Latest effort brings number of borrowers to have debt wiped to 4.3 million

Debt is being wiped out for borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan, Income-Driven Repayment plan and Public Service Loan Forgiveness plan

The White House has announced it is wiping out another $7.4 billion in student loan debt for 277,000 borrowers, bringing the total canceled by the Biden administration to $153 billion.

It is 81-year-old Biden's second large-scale effort to forgive billions in debt in a week in a scheme critics say is a bid to 'buy votes' before the general election.

On Monday, the administration rolled out a plan that would impact combined some 30 million borrowers after his first bid was blocked by the Supreme Court last year.

Now more borrowers seeing their student loan debt forgiven will receive emails informing them of the move on Friday.

'From day one of my Administration, I promised to fight to ensure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity. I will never stop working to cancel student debt  no matter how many times Republican elected officials try to stop us,' Biden said in a statement.

The debt being canceled Friday is for borrowers in three debt forgiveness programs already in use including a plan that 18 GOP-led states are suing to block.

President Biden touting his latest proposals to cancel student loan debt for millions of Americans during a visit to Madison, WI on Monday. On Friday, the administration announced it was canceling an additional $7.4 billion in debt under programs already implemented bringing the total forgiven so far to $153 billion

Nearly 207,000 borrowers are seeing some $3.6 billion in debt cancelled through President Biden's SAVE plan, which the administration began forgiving student loan debt through earlier this year.

Another 65,000 borrowers are seeing debt wiped through administrative adjustments to the Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans. To date, the administration has wiped out $49 billion in debt through IDR plans.

Third, an additional 4,600 public servants are seeing their debt forgiven through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

In total, 4.3 million federal student loan borrowers have seen student loan debt forgiven since Biden took office.

'It shows we're relentless in what we're doing to help millions of hardworking Americans with the burden of student loan debt,' Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said of the multiple rounds of debt canceled.

The Biden administration has canceled $153 billion in student loan debt through a series of efforts including the SAVE plan as well as changes to Income-Driven Repayment and Public Service Loan Forgiveness plans

The bulk of the debt being forgiven on Friday comes through the SAVE plan, an income drive repayment plan that cuts down on the amount to time and money some borrowers have to pay before their student loan debt is forgiven.

The Biden administration announced it was launching the program last summer.

In February, the White House announced the first group to see debt canceled under the plan, and the Education Department said it would continue to identify borrowers who qualify on a continuing basis.

Eight million borrowers are enrolled in the plan to date. 4.5 million of those borrowers have a monthly payment of $0, and over one million have monthly payments of less than $100, the White House said.

However, Republicans have blasted the effort to cancel debt and accuse the president of attempting to 'buy votes' ahead of the election.

They've called the student loan debt cancelation unfair to taxpayers who did not take on massive student loans for school or have the opportunity to go to college.

Two lawsuits have been filed by Republican state attorneys general against the Biden administration's income-driven repayment program known as the SAVE plan

The Republican attorneys general of 18 states are suing the Biden administration over the SAVE plan. One lawsuit signed onto by eleven states was filed in Kansas on March 28 while another with seven states was filed in Missouri earlier this week.

Biden Administration Student Loan Debt Forgiveness August 2022: Biden announces original plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student loan debt June 2023: Supreme Court blocks Biden's first student loan forgiveness plan August 2023: Biden announces income driven repayment SAVE plan February 2024: Biden administration begins canceling debt under the SAVE plan March 2024: 11 states sue to block the SAVE plan April 2024: Biden administration unveils new proposals to cancel student loan debt under the Higher Education Act April 2024: Seven states led by Missouri sue over the SAVE plan Advertisement

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre blasted the lawsuits saying the Republican elected officials want to make their constituents monthly payments go up and keep them under a mountain of debt.

A senior administration official said they believe strongly in their legal authority to take action.

Republican officials acknowledged it is unlikely they would recoup debt already forgiven.

Meanwhile, President Biden traveled to Madison, Wisconsin on Monday to tout additional new plans to eliminate student loan debt.

Those proposals are being rolled out through the more time consuming rulemaking process which the administration turned to after the Supreme Court blocked the original plan.

According to the Biden administration, the new proposals would fully eliminate accrued interest for 23 million borrowers.

It would also cancel the full amount of student loan debt for more than four million borrowers and provide more than 10 million borrowers with at least $5,000 in debt relief or more.

The five major actions include canceling up to $20,000 in unpaid interest for borrowers who currently owe more on their student loans than they originally borrowed.

It would also wipe debt for two million borrowers who would have qualified for other forgiveness programs but have not yet applied.

Additionally, undergraduate borrowers who entered into repayment 20 or more years ago and graduate student borrowers who began repayment 25 or more years ago would also see debt canceled.

Borrowers who have been enrolled in low-financial-value programs and those have have faced financial hardship paying back loans would also see relief.

President Biden released a video on Monday touting his latest student loan debt forgiveness proposals which would cancel accrued interest for millions, wipe debt for some borrowers who have not already enrolled but qualify for other programs and cancel debt for some who have been in repayment for 20 or more years

Protesters outside the Supreme Court on June 30, 2023. Biden's new student debt forgiveness proposals come after the Supreme Court blocked his original plan to cancel debt

The new proposals come after the president's first massive $400 billion plan to cancel student loan debt was blocked by the Supreme Court last June.

'Tens of millions of people's debt was literally about to get cancelled, but then some of my Republican friends, elected officials and special interests sued us, and the Supreme Court blocked us,' Biden said Monday, bragging 'that didn't stop us.'

Senior administration officials said they studied the Supreme Court's 2023 decision carefully and pursued the new regulations in a way that is consistent with that decision.

The new plans unveiled Monday are a part of the regulatory process that started last summer and are being carried out under the Education Secretary's authority in the Higher Education Act.

Administration officials said they are confident with the new proposals going forward.
It's telling that before today no Labour leader had visited the nuclear shipyard at Barrow-in-Furness for more than 30 years.

For decades the party has been at best ambivalent towards maintaining our ultimate deterrent, at worst downright hostile. Many of its activists still sit firmly in the latter camp.

Less than five years ago, Labour was led by Jeremy Corbyn, who stated publicly that he would never agree to the use of nuclear weapons. His predecessor Ed Miliband wanted only a 'minimum deterrent', hinting that he would cut back our nuclear fleet.

Further back, Michael Foot was a passionate unilateralist and founder of CND. In his 1983 election manifesto (memorably described by MP Gerald Kaufman as the longest suicide note in history) he promised to scrap Trident and pursue a 'non-nuclear defence policy'.

So, Sir Keir Starmer's visit to Barrow and unequivocal commitment not only to maintain the UK's nuclear capability but to enhance it, is hugely significant  and welcome. In a landmark piece for today's Mail, he pledges a 'deterrent triple-lock'.

Sir Keir Starmer's visit to Barrow and unequivocal commitment not only to maintain the UK's nuclear capability but to enhance it, is hugely significant

Sir Keir pledged a 'cast-iron' guarantee to build all four new Dreadnought submarines at the Cumbrian yard

First, a 'cast-iron' guarantee to build all four new Dreadnought submarines at the Cumbrian yard. Secondly, to keep one or more of our nuclear craft at sea 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Thirdly, to deliver all upgrades necessary to 'face the challenges of the decades to come'.

Sir Keir goes further, hailing the AUKUS defence agreement between the UK, Australia, and the US as 'a game-changer' and enthusiastically backing the building of nuclear submarines for the Australian navy at Barrow.

With the growing threat from China, this alliance is crucial and may well be joined in future by other countries, such as Japan who fear Beijing's expansionism.

(It's worth noting that AUKUS could never have happened without Boris Johnson and the Brexit that Sir Keir so bitterly opposed, as it would undoubtedly have been vetoed in Brussels.)

'My changed Labour Party is utterly committed to our nation's defence,' Sir Keir writes. This declaration will have some within his party sputtering with indignation. But it is clever politics.

Less than five years ago, Labour was led by Jeremy Corbyn , who stated publicly that he would never agree to the use of nuclear weapons

Defence has historically been Labour's weak spot, but not today. A recent poll for the Mail showed that  remarkably  they are now more trusted to keep us safe than the Tories. Sir Keir clearly means to press home his advantage.

The Conservatives have only themselves to blame. Their recent legacy is a hollowed-out military, massively expensive aircraft carriers that don't seem to work, and a recruitment crisis in all three services.

Their failure to spend even 2.5 per cent of national income on defence in such dangerous times completes a picture of complacency and penny-pinching.

As Mr Johnson put it yesterday, obsessing about such things as anti-smoking legislation while neglecting the defence of the realm is 'absolutely nuts'.

We have yet to see the Labour manifesto, of course, and whether Sir Keir's pledges make the final draft intact. There will be huge pressure from the party's sizeable peacenik contingency to dilute them.

He isn't promising to spend more or offering much in the way of new vision. And so far, we have only rhetoric to judge him by. But this is nevertheless a signal moment.

Sir Keir hopes to persuade the public our nuclear capability, military alliances and national security are safe in his hands. If he can, he will remove one more of the dwindling number of reasons to vote Tory.
Jacinta Nampijinpa Price says state premiers are failing to heed the message of the Voice referendum and promoting a racist agenda pushed by an Indigenous minority - as NSW begins paving the way for an Indigenous treaty.

The NSW government led by Labor Premier Chris Minns announced yesterday it was seeking to appoint three three commissioners as part of a $5million commitment to exploring the possibilities of a treaty with Indigenous communities.

LNP Senator Price said Mr Minns was ignoring the result of last year's federal Voice referendum and instead listening to an urbanised activist class who did not reflect the wider Indigenous community.

LNP Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has hit out at state premiers pursuing state-based Voices and treaties with Indigenous Australians

'Not only did Australians and particularly NSW Australians vote no to The Voice but they voted No to concepts that were attached to the Voice, that were treaty and truth,' Senator Price, who is Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, said.

The Indigenous Voice to Parliament, which is described as one leg of a process towards truth-telling and treaty in its foundation document, the Uluru Statement from the Heart, was rejected by over 60 per cent of voters last October.

Senator Price also pointed out that a recent vote for a Voice to the South Australian parliament only saw a 10 per cent turnout of those eligible to vote.

In the areas where the most marginalised Indigenous people live, only around 300 voted out of 2,000 eligible electors.

'Those premiers that think they know whats best for their constituents are pushing ahead with separatism in our country,' she told Sydney radio station 2GB on Friday.

'It is dangerous, it is unhelpful and in a democratic nation such as ours, in 2024, this is going to put us backward.'

Senator Price said the poor turnout in South Australia as well as in an election to elect Victoria's First Peoples' Assembly showed that only a minority of urbanised Indigenous activists were pushing concepts such as voice and treaty.

'Its this ridiculous notion, its a racist notion to say we all think the same as a race of people,' Senator Price said.

'We dont treat any other race of people in this manner but we continue with progressive, leftist leaders to push that notion, which is a racist stereotype.

The NSW Labor government led by Premier Chris Minns is spending $5million on exploring the possibilities of signing a treaty with Indigenous people

'We know that when you stand up and call yourself a victim and you attack anyone who listens with this notion, there are those in power who will fall at your feet and give you what you want.

'Just because we are Indigenous doesnt mean we are all marginalised. In fact only 20 per cent of the three per cent or us are marginalised and our efforts should be focused on the marginalised.'

Senator Price joined Warren Mundine, her fellow No vote campaigner at the Voice referendum, in condemning the push for Indigenous people to be exempt from land tax as well as interest on loans and university fees as part of a Victorian treaty.

'Its absolutely outrageous. Its more rent-seeking,' she said.

'To suggest that the rest of Victoria, non-indigenous Victoria have to put their hand in their pocket, pay their taxes so it goes towards people of a certain racial heritage and of mixed heritage, is just utterly ridiculous.

'It is separatism, it causes angst, it causes a divide within communities.'

Senator Price said that Indigenous politics was dominated by an urbanised activist class

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has not ruled out the race-based financial advantages being included in a treaty with the state's Indigenous population, with negotiations to be held later this year.

Prominent Indigenous Elder Aunty Jill Gallagher AO has pushed the case for an array of financial benefits the government should consider for the treaty, which also included exempting Indigenous people from stamp tax and council rates.

Appearing on Sky News, Mr Mundine labelled these demands a 'brain fart' and said they would not make a practical difference to the major issues facing Indigenous people.

On Friday Senator Price was also asked by 2GB's Mark Levy about her hometown of Alice Springs, which following a riot has seen a curfew imposed on youths.

Senator Price said this had provided some welcome respite for the crime-wracked town but she feared what would happen when the curfew is lifted next Tuesday.

'We cant live like this long-term,' she said.

'We need to have our community back to what it used to be instead of normalising this kind of behaviour because we dont get it anywhere else.'

She said the Indigenous Affairs Minister Linda Burney needed to step up and 'get serious with policy that is going to improve the lives of marginalised indigenous Australians'.
A top Sydney lawyer has tragically taken their own life.

The lawyer was an associate with Baker McKenzie, one of the world's largest international law firms, which employs more than 300 lawyers in Australia.

NSW Police reportedly attended Baker McKenzie's Sydney offices at Tower One in Barangaroo following the suicide, and staff are said to be 'devastated'.

A funeral service for the lawyer was held in Sydney earlier this week.

Baker McKenzie Australias managing partner Anne-Marie Allgrove said support was being provided to all staff following his death.

'We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague,' Ms Allgrove said in a statement to media.

A top Sydney lawyer has tragically taken their own life. Pictured (Baker McKenzie Australia's offices in Barangaroo)

'We are devastated for their family and friends, and have extended our deepest sympathies and support at this very challenging time.

'The firm and all who knew them are deeply mourning this loss.

'We have provided onsite support for our staff in the Sydney office and engaged our Employee Assistance Program provider for additional support across all three of our Australian offices.'

The lawyer's death did not take place at work.

Police visited the law firm's offices located in Sydney's Barangaroo towers following the death, the Australian Financial Review reported, as part of a 'routine check of the workplace.'

For confidential support call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on: 13 11 14

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
The U.S. Post Office and distribition facility is visible in Missouri City, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

An audit report released Thursday found hundreds of thousands of pieces of delayed mail and several safety issues plaguing a U.S. Postal Service facility in Missouri City during a visit in January.

The USPS Office of Inspector General conducted an unannounced site visit at the South Houston Local Processing Center in Missouri City from Jan. 28 to Jan. 30, which was during the peak of the mail delays.

Investigators estimated approximately 384,000 pieces of delayed mail were at the facility during their three-day visit.

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"We found the mail conditions and postal operations in the facility necessitated alerting Postal Service management," the audit reads.

The USPS Office of Inspector General is an independent oversight agency within the postal service. The audit was first confirmed earlier this year by a spokesperson who said it was conducted "due to concerns brought to our attention."

When asked for comment on the audit, the Postal Service directed the Houston Chronicle to a letter attached in the audit's appendix signed by three USPS management executives.

"The Postal Service agrees that the findings were accurate in January 2024. At the time of the OIG visit, the Postal Service had already implemented actions to address the conditions in South Houston. The Postal Service has continued to improve conditions in South Houston over the last few months," reads the letter.

The South Houston Local Processing Center in Missouri City was one of two facilities at the center of the mail delays that swept through the Houston area along with the North Houston Processing and Distribution Center.

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Auditors write the Missouri City facility opened Nov. 18, 2023, as a peak season annex, which is a type of facility meant to "temporarily help with increased package volume at select processing facilities." In this case, it was meant to help out the North Houston site.

"Although the South Houston LPC was opened as a peak season annex with temporary, peak season staff, management employed an undocumented contingency plan and decided to keep the facility open beyond peak season," the audit reads. "On January 2, 2024, the facility stopped processing packages bound for the immediate area and began processing packages coming from the local area to the rest of the nation."

LOOKING AT THE DATA: USPS data reveals Houston-area performance dropped below previous standards starting in November

Auditors named several factors that led to the high volume of mail that was delayed being processed in Missouri City: the facility wasn't set up to handle that much mail; staffing challenges that included auditors observing "one logistics supervisor in charge of all three work shifts, covering a 24-hour period;" inaccurate reporting of delayed mail; and weather delays stemming from the hard freeze in mid-January.

Investigators looked at 75 packages from throughout the building during their trip to "review and analyze scanning and tracking history." About 63% of the packages were delayed at least one day and no more than 25 days. The tracking history of the other 37% of packages could not be calculated because they didn't have start-the-clock dates established.

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Auditors at the site reported numerous safety issues. Fire extinguishers were blocked. Motorized equipment operators didn't have safety mirrors to help them see blind spots. There was a lack of running water.

Machines ran on generators due to "insufficient electrical infrastructure."

"Management stated that property conditions were overlooked because the South Houston LPC was a contingency facility, and the mail processing operations took priority over addressing facility condition issues, like keeping aisles clear," the audit reads.

Auditors broke down their findings into four categories  processing delays, inadequate transportation, facility conditions and informing stakeholders  and provided six recommendations to the post office.

USPS accepted all six recommendations with five of them set for a target implementation date of April 30. One has an implementation date of Aug. 31.

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USPS had apologized in a February member briefing with lawmakers and congressional staffers for the delays, which they said were the result of multiple factors including weather, staffing shortages and issues implementing the 10-year Delivering for America plan.

MEMBER BRIEFING: USPS apologizes for Houston mail delays during discussion with Congress members

Thursday's audit is the third one released by the USPS Office of Inspector General since November. An audit on the North Houston facility was released last November but conducted before the start of the mail delays.

The North Houston facility is in the process of being converted to a Regional Processing and Distribution Center as part of the Delivering for America plan.

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The USPS Office of Inspector General released another audit soon after that looked at three local post offices, addressing issues at those locations.
This is the moment Canadian parliament broke out into God Save the King after MPs voted down a bill aiming to remove the oath of allegiance to the reigning monarch.

Canada's Liberal government, along with Conservative MPs, found rare common ground in allying against the private member's bill supported by Left wing and nationalist parties further from the centre.

The joint effort saw MPs vote to keep Section 128, which requires new parliamentarians swear an oath that they will be 'faithful and bear true allegiance' to the reigning monarch by 113 votes to 197.

As the bill was defeated, Monarchist MPs applauded the verdict and began singing God Save the King, shown in video from Canada's House of Commons.

It comes at a challenging time for Canada, which since the death of Queen Elizabeth II has been prompted to re-evaluate its relationship to the Commonwealth of member states with ties to Great Britain.

MPs opposing the bill broke out into song after hearing it had been successfully voted down

Video shows speaker Greg Fergus repeatedly calling for order without much recognition as the opposition bloc carries on singing.

Had the bill passed, it would have seen the introduction of an amendment by which new parliamentarians swore to carry out duties 'in the best interest of Canada' and its constitution, without reference to the monarchy.

King Charles III remains Canada's sovereign and head of state.

As noted by the government's website: 'In Canada's system of government, the power to govern is vested in the Crown but is entrusted to the government to exercise on behalf and in the interest of the people.

'The Crown reminds the government of the day that the source of the power to govern rests elsewhere and that it is only given to them for a limited duration. '

French and British monarchs have reigned in Canada since 1534.

Nonetheless, support for the monarchy is waning, with a shock poll last year showing six out of 14 nations including Canada would vote to remove King Charles as their head of state.

As many as 47 per cent of Canadians wanted change with just 23 per cent openly supporting the monarchy.

54 per cent of Canadians agreed that the monarchy was good for them in the past, but no longer makes sense.

Australia was more divided, with 42 per cent of Australians supporting a republic and 35 per cent against.

Only Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Tuvalu have significant majorities in favour of maintaining the status quo, according to the survey of 11,251 people.

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall meet and greet local schoolchildren of Assumption School on day two of their Platinum Jubilee Royal Tour of Canada on May 18, 2022 in Ottawa, Canada

King Charles III shakes hands with Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, at Buckingham Palace on September 17, 2022

King Charles had reportedly begun to make plans to visit Canada in May 2024 - before his shock cancer diagnosis was revealed in February.

A Canadian official told CBC that 'following the announcement of a cancer diagnosis for His Majesty the King, there are no more tours planned in Canada for 2024, nor are there any tours planned with other members of the Royal Family.'

The King is currently being treated for an undisclosed form of cancer after being diagnosed with a large prostate earlier this year.

He nonetheless is said to be 'optimistic' about a planned two-week state trip to Australia after his cancer treatment started positively.

King Charles could visit the country with Queen Camilla as soon as October if all goes to plan.
Patricia Hodge has launched a scathing attack on cyclists after a near collision with an 'unforgivably rude' bike rider.

The Miranda actress said cyclists think they are at the centre of the world and it's having a negative effect on society.

The 77-year-old actress added that she feels she should speak out when she sees cyclists riding their bikes at high speeds but is often met with verbal abuse.

The actress also noted that cyclists rarely get pulled over by police for running a red light or riding without bike lights on.

Hodge said: 'I can't tell you how many continue to ride their bikes at speed, with mothers having to swiftly move their buggies out of the way.

Patricia Hodge at the press night for A Day in the Death of Joe Egg in 2019. The veteran actress launched a scathing attack on cyclists after a near collision in Marylebone, central London

The actress is known for her role as the eccentric mother to Miranda Hart in the hit BBC sitcom Miranda

The 77-year-old recently starred in Channel 5's All Creatures Great and Small (pictured)

'I always make sure, though, to point out that the only reason they're angry is because they know I'm right she told Candis magazine.

Hodge lives near Hammersmith Bridge in west London and described one incident with an 'unforgivably rude but also dangerous' cyclist.

The actress, who recently starred opposite Nigel Havers in Noel Coward's Private Lives, described how she was crossing Portland Place in central London and almost collided with a cyclist as she crossed the road.

Despite the light being green for pedestrians, the cyclist continued anyway.

When the actress challenged him, she said the biker 'flicked' her a rude hand gesture.

'I just pointed at the green light for pedestrians and he called me the worst word in the English language.' she said.

The actress added that as she has got older she feels obligated to speak out against injustice and added that she feels good manners have declined despite her efforts to point them out.
A young Aussie suffering from crippling cluster headaches has been left in agonising pain after the only medication that eased his discomfort was taken off the shelves.

Debilitating cluster headaches impact one in 1,000 Aussies, including young Perth man Joshua Lee Spencer.

'You really want to die... because the pain is so bad,' Mr Lee Spencer told 7News.

Just in the last two weeks, Mr Lee Spencer has presented five times to Perth's Armadale Hospital because the pain was so intense.

Debilitating cluster headaches impact one in 1,000 Aussies, including young Perth man Joshua Lee Spencer (pictured)

'(Its) Like someone with a hot burning knife going through my eye and then reaching all the way back and stabbing,' he said.

The most effective treatment for Joshua's cluster headaches is the nasal spray Sumatriptan.

Unfortunately for Joshua and other sufferers, the product has been discontinued due to what has been described as 'commercial viability'.

Andre Ngeow from the Pharmacy Guild of Australia explains: If the demand is not high enough to drive the viability of that product, companies will make the decision to cease distribution.

Sumatriptan is also available in a tablet, but sadly this medication doesn't work for Joshua.

He is reluctant to use preventative medicine due to the risk of side effects.

The cause of cluster headaches is a mystery.

'The problem is we dont really know specifically what is causing this', Dr. Vijay Kama from Armadale Hospital said.

The most effective treatment for Joshua's cluster headaches is the nasal spray Sumatriptan (pictured) but it has been discontinued due to 'commercial viability'

When Joshua's mum Jacinta Lee heard that Sumatriptan nasal spray was being discontinued, she panicked.

'I started calling pharmacies to see if they stock the product and asking them if they have stock.

Jacinta is distressed at the devastating impact the severe headaches have on her son and has grave concerns for his future.

Its so quiet in the middle of the night. Everyone is asleep and you hear kill me, just kill me!'. I jump out of my bed,' she said.

'You know whats most frightening for me? I do not want to come back and see him dead because hes killed himself  I will not take that.'
Former coworker Matthew Keirans assumed the man's identity more than 30 years ago, even giving his son Woods' last name

He spent two years in custody, including five months in a mental hospital, after alleging that his identity had been stolen

A man who was arrested and locked up for two years after complaining that his identity had been stolen more than 30 years ago, was finally exonerated and pronounced factually innocent Thursday in a Los Angeles courtroom.

LA Superior Court Judge William Ryan called the case astounding and Kafka-esque as he declared William Woods, 55, officially a free man who was wrongly convicted of crimes he did not commit.

Woods - who is threatening to bring a lawsuit against police and prosecutors - did not appear at the brief hearing in downtown LA criminal. Instead he called into the hearing by phone but said nothing during the proceeding.

Nor did his attorney, public defender Michael Schensul, want to say anything on his clients behalf, offering only, I have no comment.

In what LA District Attorney George Gascon called a diabolical turn of events, Woods was a victim of identity theft - but it was he who ended up behind bars while the man who stole his identity, Matthew Keirans, impersonated him for more than three decades, running up more than $200,000 in loans taken out in Woods name.

William Woods, 55, has been exonerated after being arrested and spending two years behind bars for complaining that his identity had been stolen over 30 years ago

Woods' attorney, Michael Schensul, declined to comment at Thursday's proceeding

Deputy District Attorney Kathryn Albracht went to court Thursday to right this wrong, filing a motion that asked Ryan to set aside Woods wrongful convictionand to make a finding of factual innocence.

The judge did just that, telling Woods, I am more than happy to sign this order and find that new evidence proves Mr. Woods innocent of the crimes he was convicted of.

The judge said he found it astounding that even Woods own lawyer didnt believe him when he protested his innocence at the time he was charged. Its almost Kafka-esque, he added.

Police finally caught up with the real identity thief Matthew Kierans, 58, who is now facing up to 32 years in prison.

In its motion to clear Woods name Thursday, the LA DA wrote, Approximately 35 years ago, Matthew Keirans stole the identity of William Woods.

Impersonating Woods, Keirans obtained, among other things, a drivers license, a social security number, loans, insurance and credit.

Kierans married his wife using Woods identity and gave his son Woods last name. Keirans opened bank accounts with US Bank. He opened those accounts with his wife and son.

In a diabolical turn of events, when, in 2019, Woods became aware of fraudulent bank accounts opened in his name and tried to close those accounts and clear his name, Woods was arrested for identity theft.

When bank employees contacted Keirans, Keirans falsely claimed that Woods had stolen his identity when indeed the opposite was true.

Deputy District Attorney Kathryn Albracht had filed a motion that asked the judge to set aside Woods wrongful convictionand to make a finding of factual innocence'

Matthew Keirans, 58, faces up to 32 years in prison for stealing the identity of Woods in 1988 when they worked a hot dog stand together

LA Superior Court Judge William Ryan described the case, which saw Keirans marry his wife using Woods' identity and give his son Woods' last name, as 'Kafka-esque'

Based on Keirans continued lies Woods spent two years in custody - including five months in state mental hospital - while his case was pending and in 2021, after entering a no-contest plea to two felony charges of identity theft and false personation, he was sentenced to two years in county jail. That was the time hed already been locked up so he was released on time served.

The saga of Woods stolen identity began in 1988 in Albuquerque, New Mexico where he and Keirans were both working on a hot dog stand.

When Woods wallet went missing one day, he suspected Keirans and when he confronted him, he told the LA Times, 'I put my fist in his face, and he decided to hand me back my wallet.'

Checking the contents, he noticed his Social Security and birth certificate were still safely inside. But still, Kierans went on to steal Woods name and identity and used it 'in every aspect of his life' for the next three decades, according to court documents.

In 1990, Keirans got a fake Colorado ID using Woods name and birthday and got a job at a fast-food restaurant and a Colorado bank account.

He bought a car for $600 in 1991, also using Woods' name, with two $300 checks that bounced.

Keirans drove to Idaho where the stolen car broke down and he abandoned it, withdrawing all of his money from the Colorado account and leaving the state.

From there, his fraud ramped up and in 1994, still using Woods' name, Keirans got married and had a child, who he gave the surname Woods.

He then moved to Wisconsin and obtained a copy of Woods' birth certificate using information about his family he found on Ancestry.com.

In 2013, he got a job as a systems architect in the the University of Iowa Hospital's IT department.

He worked there for the next 10 years, earning more than $700,000 in total, and by 2023, his salary was $140,501, according to the hospital.

Over the years he took out multiple vehicle and personal loans from Iowa credit unions under Woods' name, worth more than $200,000.

All this time, the real Woods was living homeless in Los Angeles.

Kierans used his former coworker's identity 'in every aspect of his life' for three decades. He eventually confessed to prolonged identity theft in 2023

The two worked together at a hot dog stand in Albuquerque, New Mexico (not pictured here) in 1988 and did not interact until Woods' wallet went missing

In August 2019, Woods went to a Los Angeles branch of US Bank and said he had discovered someone was using his bank accounts and had accumulated debt, and asked to close the accounts.

He gave the bank his ID and his social security number, which matched the information the bank had, but he couldn't answer the security questions that Keirans had set up.

The bank called the number they had on file for him - Keirans' number - and Keiran answered the security questions, telling the bank employees that no one in California had permission to access his accounts.

The bank employee called LAPD who questioned Woods and Keirans. After Keirans sent LAPD officers a copy of his Social Security card, Woods was arrested and charged with identity theft and false personation.

During court appearances for his pending case, he repeatedly told the judge, 'I'm not Matthew Keirans at all.'

'People didnt listen, and they didnt know I was who I said I was, Woods told the LA Times. They were painting it like I was crazy.'

In February 2020, he was found to be not mentally competent to stand trial and was ordered to a psychiatric hospital. It was also ordered that he receive psychotropic medication.

After being eventually released from custody, Woods was determined to get to the bottom of what had happened.

Keirans, in the meantime, had landed a job as a systems architect in the the University of Iowa Hospital's IT department.

He worked there for the next 10 years, earning more than $700,000 in total, and by 2023, his salary was $140,501, according to the hospital.

Woods managed to find out where Keirans was working and in January 2023 he contacted the hospital's security department.

The hospital referred his complaint to the University of Iowa Police Department, where Detective Ian Mallory opened an investigation.

Mallory found Woods' biological father and tested his DNA against Woods' and Keirans'. The DNA proved Woods was who he said he was and Keirans was a fraud.

Based on Keirans 'continued lies,' Woods spent two years in custody, including five months in a state mental hospital

Woods became aware of fraudulent bank accounts opened in his name in 2019 and tried to close them - but he was arrested for identity theft

In July 2023, more than 30 years after Keirans first stole Woods' identity, Mallory interviewed him.

He asked him what his father's name was and Keirans accidentally gave the name of his own adoptive father.

Mallory then confronted Keirans with the DNA evidence and he responded saying 'my life is over' and 'everything is gone'.

He then confessed to prolonged identity theft, according to court documents, and was taken into custody on July 18 2023.

Keirans pleaded guilty to false use of birth certificate and the other charge was dropped.

He was then indicted in federal court on December 12, on five counts of false statement to a National Credit Union Administration insured institution and two counts of aggravated identity theft.

He pleaded guilty to one count of each charge and the other counts were dropped.

A sentencing has not yet been scheduled. He is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service, and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years in prison and a possible maximum sentence of 32 years imprisonment, a $1.25 million fine, and five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

Last year, Woods moved back to Albuquerque where he lived in a hotel and now stays with a friend in El Paso.

His former boss at the hot dog business Eric Kilmer described Woods as the 'most innocent type fellow youll ever want to meet.

Woods, talking about the possibility of bringing a lawsuit, told the LA Times, They should pay for every day I was in there . It isnt right to be putting me in jail for nothing.'

And when asked what hell do now that hes proved his innocence, he added, I guess I have to regain all my stuff back and just rebuild what I was.'
Aboriginal girl says she was 'racially profiled' at popular chemist

A young Indigenous girl has revealed how she contemplated taking her own life after she was accused of shoplifting.

Alinta, the daughter of Chloe Quayle, a popular rapper aka Barkaa, said she was stopped by a security guard while shopping at a Chemist Warehouse store in Sydney.

'I wanted to buy some makeup and hair products like I'm sure many other teen girls would, but at the end of my shopping spree a security guard told my mother to get the receipt for the stuff we had bought at the counter,' she said.

'We complied... that was until a white shopper was able to leave the store without hassle. It was then my mum instantly pointed this out and asked the security guard if he was going to ask the other shoppers for a receipt as well.

Alinta, the daughter of Chloe Quayle, a popular rapper, said she was stopped by a security guard while shopping at a Chemist Warehouse store in Sydney

She said that the security guard started threatening to involve the police simply because her mother was recording him.

'My mother stopped recording and he proceeded to accuse me of theft. This brought me into the spotlight and all eyes were on me,' she continued.

'I was just painted as a criminal. My life began to crumble in those moments as I hyperventilated,' she explained.

She explained that if her mother hadn't stepped in to defend her, she would have allowed the security guard to pat her down in the store.

The young girl broke down as she detailed the alleged racial profiling at Chemist Warehouse

'In desperation to prove my innocence, I dropped my bag and jacket on the floor as I sobbed,' she said.

'The sad thing about this is that I truly believed that I had done something wrong. I believed that maybe I had a gap in my memory or stole something by accident.

'My dignity and self-esteem was stripped away from me in a second and for the rest of my night I cried and sobbed.

'I even contemplated taking my own life because how could I bear to live in a world that hated me.'

Alinta said it had been her own decision to share her story to raise awareness.

'This has happened to my mother, my grandmother and probably the whole family tree since colonisation. Nothing has changed,' she said.

Her mother has demanded Chemist Warehouse fire the security guard allegedly responsible for the incident.

Ms Quayle was seen crying and comforting her daughter throughout the video

She has demanded Chemist Warehouse fire the security guard allegedly responsible

'The ironic thing in it all is that my daughter also plays footy for a team thats main sponsor is Chemist Warehouse,' she wrote on Facebook.

'Not only did they target an innocent Blak child and demonised her in the store, they targeted one of their players.'

She said Chemist Warehouse had contacted her about the incident, and that she had passed on her lawyer's details.

'So sick and tired of our babies having to beg and plead for their innocence, so sick and tired of us having to protect our babies from this before they even get the chance to fully understand how racist this country can be.

'So sick and tired of Blak children not being seen in the same light us non-indigenous children all because of stereotypes and the severe racism.'

In a statement, Chemist Warehouse told Daily Mail Australia it was aware of the incident.

'Under no circumstances do we condone the ill treatment of our customers,' it said.

'We want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our customers and staff are our top priority and we understand the distress this incident may have caused for all those involved.

'We are discussing further action with the security contractor in question.'
Bruce Lehrmann's landlord was 'disgusted' to learn he was staying at her home and has ordered both he and his housemate get out.

Daily Mail Australia this week revealed Mr Lehrmann had shacked up with a friend, Paul Farrell, 48, at a $4.1million North Sydney home.

Wild parties were held at the property over three days with a bevy of young women seen coming and going, often with alcohol.

But Mr Lehrmann was told to leave on Thursday evening and his landlord - who asked not to be named - said his roommate Mr Farrell was being shown the door as well.

'I wasn't aware at all,' she told Daily Mail Australia on Friday afternoon. 'I am disgusted. Bruce is gone and Paul will be leaving too'.

The landlord said she only found out Mr Lehrmann was living there after the Mail published photos of he and groups of women coming and going.

Bruce Lehrmann's landlord (above) was disgusted to learn that he was living at her house

Mr Lehrmann moved into a mate's rental home in North Sydney recently - but the wild parties sparked a neighbourhood stink

She said her disgust was at the partying at the home and the revelation that Mr Lehrmann had been staying there without her knowledge.

In what is understood to be a coincidence, the landlord once worked for Network Seven.

Mr Farrell, 48, offered Mr Lehrmann a place to stay when his year-long deal with Channel Seven for a $2,000-a-week property in Sydney's northern beaches ended.

Mr Farrell told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday he thought he was just 'helping out a mate' when he offered his spare room at his North Sydney rental to Mr Lehrmann.

'I'm renting this place and had a spare room ... but it's basically ruined my life with all the photographers and journalists hanging around.'

On Friday, a resident at Mr Lehrmann's new home - who declined to give his name - confirmed that the former political staffer was gone.

'He was told to vacate and he did so last night - that's all I know,' the man said. 'I don't know where he's staying now'.

Daily Mail Australia understands that Mr Lehrmann is now couchsurfing and last night shacked up at the home of a female Sydney socialite, elsewhere in the city.

Mr Lehrmann's car was spotted elsewhere in the city with all his worldly possessions in the back seat.

That included piles of towels, Woolworths freezer bags and Ritz crackers.

The back of Mr Lehrmann's car was found filled with his possessions on the street elsewhere in Sydney. Inside was a pile of towels and food, such as Ritz crackers

Mr Lehrmann's housemate, Paul Farrell, is pictured outside the North Sydney rental on Thursday. He said Mr Lehrmann's arrival had 'basically ruined' his life

Neighbours told Daily Mail Australia this week how they were deeply frustrated with the parties that have occurred at the North Sydney home in the past three weeks.

On Thursday alone, a male friend of Mr Lehrmann's arrived with a box of alcohol and mates made two trips to the bottleshop.

Neighbours claimed Mr Lehrmann's companions had in recent weeks been 'shrieking' the lyrics to Tina Turner songs, swearing at all hours, and talking outside into the early hours of the morning.

'It's not loud music, it's mostly carry-on with the girls shrieking and screaming along to Tina Turner,' one neighbour said.

'They're constantly swearing, it's 'F-this' and 'F-that'.'

Another neighbour accused guests of parking on the footpath and across driveways, which they said 'is selfish for parents pushing prams'.

'It's quite intrusive because they already have a double car garage to park in,' they said.

On Thursday, a woman emerged from the property with no shoes on (pictured). She had been seen with Mr Lehrmann on Tuesday

The group accepted a Taco Bell delivery at lunchtime on Thursday (pictured)

Pictured: A blond woman entering Bruce Lehrmann's home on Wednesday with a bottle of Hendrick's gin

Mr Lehrmann kicked off a week of partying on Tuesday evening when he was spotted in a burgundy blazer, flanked by two glammed-up women, outside the home - just moments after a new judgement date in his blockbuster defamation case was set.

The trio charged through the rain and jumped into the back of an Uber, with one holding a can of alcohol.

The revelry continued on Wednesday when when another group of women entered the same property - among them, a blonde who previously appeared barefoot with a vape on the balcony of his old place in Balgowlah.

On Wednesday, she wore a black dress with a thigh-high split and black stiletto heels, while juggling car keys, a phone, a bottle of Hendrick's gin and half-drunk bottle of whisky.

And on Thursday, shortly after midday, yet another crowd shuffled into the home carrying boxes of alcohol.

Daily Mail Australia understands most of the visitors on Thursday were Mr Farrell's friends and that despite the festivities, the property has never received a noise complaint.

Mr Lehrmann has been contacted for comment.

Two women in activewear also went to Bruce Lehrmann's house on Thursday (pictured)

In just four days' time, Federal Court Justice Michael Lee will hand down his judgement in Mr Lehrmann's defamation case against Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson.

He launched defamation proceedings over an episode of The Project in February 2021, during which Brittany Higgins went public with her rape allegations for the first time in an interview with Wilkinson.

Ms Higgins alleged Mr Lehrmann raped her in Parliament House in March 2019, when they were both staffers working for the Liberal Party.

He was not named in the broadcast but claimed friends and colleagues were able to identify him as the alleged rapist. He has always maintained his innocence.

The month-long trial was heard in December. Judgement is set for 10.15am on Monday.
After the assault, Kelly sent her a text reading: 'Had fun last night. But, remember, that's between you and me and Joe only forever'

She alleges the men got her drunk before forcing themselves on her

A volunteer medic has filed a $25 million civil suit against two Long Island firefighters, accusing them of sexually assaulting her during a birthday party at the stationhouse.

Amanda Gross alleges ex-Wantagh Fire Department Chief Kenneth Kelly, Jr. and Captain Josef Seier got her so drunk that she was unable to fight off their advances.

She had been a volunteer with the department for around six years at the time and was just 27 years old.

'I thought these people were my friends and they werent. They did the complete opposite and took advantage,' Gross, now 29, told NBC New York.

'They circled the wagons immediately and did what they always try to do - victim shame and victim blame.'

Volunteer medic Amanda Gross has accused ex-Wantagh Fire Department Chief Kenneth Kelly, Jr. and Captain Josef Seier (pictured) of sexually assaulting her in a $25 million civil lawsuit

The allegations stem from the evening of January 14, 2022, when Kelly (pictured here as he was sworn in as chief in 2020) is accused of raping her alongside Seier

Gross alleges the men 'continuously overserved' her with alcoholic drinks after she arrived at the firehouse (pictured) to celebrate Seier's birthday

According to documents viewed by DailyMail.com, Gross was invited to the Wantagh Fire Department Station 4 on the evening of January 14, 2022 to celebrate Seier's birthday.

She arrived without any alcohol, 'at the request of Defendant Seier and his girlfriend,' the suit states.

However, Gross was allegedly served and 'continuously overserved' with alcoholic drinks upon arrival by both Seier and Kelly.

The lawsuit notes that the 'serving and overserving of female patrons, including female firefighters, in an attempt to make them more vulnerable to be preyed upon by male firefighters, including individual Defendants, was a recurrent ongoing problem at the District.'

It further alleges that Seier and Kelly 'had premediated a plan which included getting the Plaintiff intoxicated to the point where that the Plaintiff would not be able to consent to their advances.'

As the night dragged on, the suit says, Seier would 'lean into the Plaintiff as well as keeping his hand on her thigh,' describing both actions as 'unwelcome advances.'

At around 2 a.m., Gross overheard Kelly telling Seier that the men were going to 'wet her like a sponge,' at which point Kelly began telling everyone to leave.

Only upon hearing the remark did Gross realize that the men were planning to assault her.

The lawsuit alleges that Seier began forcing himself upon her once the room had cleared out, despite Gross' protests.

The men allegedly told her 'there were no cameras where they were' as they watched her struggle to get away.

According to the document, Seier began to get more aggressive, asking, 'You want to see this big d***?'

Kelly allegedly chimed in, stating, 'We know you like it,' before asserting that Gross was to be Seier's 'present.'

She accuses the men of raping her once she began to slip in and out of consciousness. At one point, Kelly left the firehouse while Seier continued to assault her, the suit claims.

Gross overheard Kelly (pictured) telling Seier that the men were going to 'wet her like a sponge,' at which point Kelly began telling everyone to leave the stationhouse

Hours after the assault, Gross received a text from Kelly reading, 'Had fun last night. But, remember, that's between you and me and Joe only forever'

The medic accuses Seier and Kelly (center, holding fire helmet) of committing assault, battery, and negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress, among other charges

Gross left at around 4 a.m. and received a text from Kelly reading, 'Had fun last night. But, remember, that's between you and me and Joe only forever.' A screenshot of the message was included in the lawsuit.

Gross' lawyers contend she suffered bruises and various other injuries along her back and inside her vagina from the brutal assault.

The document also states that Gross continues to suffer from 'severe psychological harm and depression, feelings of shame, humiliation, loss of sleep' and other symptoms.

The suit, seeking punitive damages, accuses both men of assault, battery, and negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress, among other counts.

It also accuses the Wantagh Fire Department, Wantagh Fire District and Board of Commissioners of negligence in failing to protect their staff by allowing them to come into contact with Seier and Kelly.

The suit came a year after a police report was filed in the aftermath of the assault, but neither of the men were ever criminally charged.

Despite the ongoing legal battle, Gross has continued to volunteer with the department.

'My goal is to make it safe, to create a safe environment for people who join, the people still in the department,' she said.

'They can think what they want, but as long as I stay strong, I will be okay.'

Neither Kelly nor Seier still work for the department. The Wantagh Fire District declined to comment, citing pending litigation.
A woman has reportedly been stabbed in the head with a screwdriver at Australia's most famous beach.

New South Wales Police were called to the scene shortly after 11am on Friday following reports of the attack.

The woman, 36, was stabbed at Wayside Chapel on Roscoe St, just metres from the popular beach and opposite the local police station.

She was treated for a head injury and was taken to hospital in a stable condition.

It's understood she was able to walk into the back of a responding ambulance.

A woman has reportedly been stabbed in the head with a screwdriver on Roscoe St, near Bondi Beach (pictured, police at the scene)

The woman, 36, was stabbed near Wayside Chapel on Roscoe St, just metres from the popular beach and opposite the local police station (pictured, police outside Wayside Chapel)

The woman was treated for a head injury and was taken to hospital in a stable condition (pictured, officers at the scene)

It's understood the woman was stabbed in the head with a screwdriver (pictured, officers outside Wayside Chapel)

It is not yet known if the attacker has been arrested.

New South Wales Police have cordoned off an area between Wayside Chapel and the Iluka Early Learning Centre next door.

Witnesses reported seeing one man screaming at another man walking down the street alongside a woman shortly before the attack.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack has commenced.

As inquiries continue, anyone with information, CCTV footage or dashcam vision in relation to the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Children at a day care centre in Sydney's west have escaped injury when a runaway car smashed through the building's entrance on Friday morning.

The 2023 red Toyota LandCruiser Prado ploughed through the walls and front door of Kids World Kindy in Guildford's Palmer Street around 10.15am.

But amazingly no-one inside the building or in the car was hurt in the incident.

Staff and children were evacuated out the badly-damaged building through a rear exit while emergency services tended to the female driver in the centre's car park.

Worried parents flocked to the centre to collect their kids in the wake of the accident but were relieved to find everyone had escaped unscathed.

'The kids are fine - they're all nice,' said one parent. 'They're all good.'

Children at a day care centre in Sydney 's west have escaped injury when a runaway car smashed through the building's entrance on Friday morning

The 2023 red Toyota Prado LandCruiser ploughed through the walls and front door of Kids World Kindy in Guildford's Palmer Street around 10.15am

Police have launched an investigation into the accident and took statements from witnesses

Police have launched an investigation into the accident and the driver, in her 30s, is assisting their inquiries.

'On arrival, officers attached to Cumberland Police Area Command located a Red Toyota SUV had collided into a wall,' said a police spokesman.

'The driver - a woman in her 30s - was subject to a roadside breath test, which returned with a negative result.

'There were no injuries reported due to this incident. The woman is assisting police with their inquiries.'
An exhausted horse was rescued by a group of brave firefighters after it fell into a retention pond in Florida.

Deputies from Lacrosse Fire Rescue and Alachua County Fire Rescue received a call about the horse drowning on Tuesday.

The horse, named Dakota, is reportedly 15 years old and appeared exhausted when found, according to FOX35.

A video shared by the Alachua County Sheriff's Office captures the distressing moment, with firefighters holding the horse's head above the water while pulling it from the pond.

An exhausted horse was rescued by a group of brave firefighters after it fell into a retention pond in Florida

The horse, named Dakota, is reportedly 15 years old and appeared exhausted when found. A video shared by the Alachua County Sheriff's Office captures the distressing moment, with firefighters holding the horse's head above the water while pulling it from the pond

Two responders stabilized the horse and held its head above water, while the rest of the team coming up with a rescue plan

Two responders stabilized the horse and held its head above water, while the rest of the team coming up with a rescue plan.

The crews were able to create a harness out of a six-inch wide strap, the Alachua County Sheriff's Office said.

'Once everyone was in position, they pulled the horse to safety using a forward assist technique,' the authorities wrote along sharing the video on Facebook.

A board was placed under the horse to help the teams slide it out of the water onto the grass, the video shows.

It laid on one side, recovering from the ordeal with a cloth over its eyes after being pulled out.

At one point, Dakota the horse suddenly jolted up, which left the rescue teams startled.

'Once everyone was in position, they pulled the horse to safety using a forward assist technique,' the authorities wrote along sharing the video on Facebook

Other rescuers can be seen gently petting the horse on its head and back, trying to comfort the animal and help it calm down

It only took the 15-year-old horse a few seconds to regain strength, as it followed the rescuers and walked away from the pond.

'Let's get away from that water, buddy. There you go,' one person can be heard saying as he guided Dakota away.

Other rescuers can be seen gently petting the horse on its head and back, trying to comfort the animal and help it calm down.

The crews cheered and clapped as the horse followed their direction, starting to walk normally.

'The horse was reunited with its owner, and appeared to have no injuries,' the sheriff's office wrote.

Residents have since taken to social media to express their gratitude, with one saying, 'Glad to see this horse back on dry land! Thanks to all involved!'
The Longhorns flag waves as the team runs onto the field during the first half of the Texas A&M Aggies vs University of Texas Longhorns rivalry NCAA football game at Kyle Field on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24, 2011 in College Station, Texas. (Patrick T. Fallon/The Dallas Morning News) Patrick T. Fallon, Staff Photographer / Dallas Morning News

Coyote and the roadrunner

Regarding Texas A&M official may bring bonfire tradition back to campus, 25 years after tragedy that killed 12, (April 10): As an alumnus of the University of Texas, I always get a chuckle when I read the (too) frequent articles in the Chronicle where, in any context, A&M inserts the notion that UT is their rival. Once again, this front-page article regarding the renewing of the Aggie bonfire tradition states this same concept, and once again, it doesnt fail to make me laugh.

Youd be hard-pressed to find someone at UT who thinks, states or believes that A&M is our rival. There are so many qualifications to be a true rivalry, and this relationship fails to meet most if not all of them. Just like no one thinks the roadrunner is the coyotes rival. Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote are adversaries, maybe even enemies, but not rivals. Big difference.

Lets be clear: UT has a rival, and UTs rival is the University of Oklahoma. Always has been, always will be. Without interruption (for a reason). It seems a little desperate and contradictory for A&M to continue to yell for a rivalry to an adversary who is not listening and doesnt care.

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Jay Kopfer, Houston

Glad to live here

Regarding H-Town institution Cleburne Cafeteria in spotlight for Good Morning Americas comfort food tour, (April 10): I live off of Bissonnet in southwest Houston and have gone to the Cleburne Cafeteria many times. My club had a banquet there in a side room last August, and I got the liver and onions plate. Yes, I know not everyone likes that dish, but it was cooked to such tenderness, and the massive number of onions were so perfectly done that this tasty and saucy dish would make converts out of many. The portion was so huge, I had to take half of it home for my dinner the next day!

Houston is truly a gastronomic delight. Good Morning America has featured it several times in recent years. I am also around the corner from the Dandelion Cafe, which was also on GMA. Glad I live here, with all this great food!

Rusti Stover, Houston

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Why stop with books?

Regarding Fort Bend ISD debates giving superintendent authority to ban books that 'stimulate sexual desire,' (April 9): Fort Bend ISD wants to prevent the stimulation of sexual desire among students, and theyre debating whether they should give one person the authority to decide which books are inappropriate.

Why stop with books? Perhaps requiring females to dress appropriately in burkas or even preventing them from attending school would stop these sexual desires.

Its working well in countries controlled by the Taliban, isnt it?

Steve Miller, Spring

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Unfair costs

Regarding USPS wants to raise stamps prices again after increasing rates last July and in January, (April 11): The U.S. Postal Service is seeking rate increases in First-Class Mail Forever stamps, postcards and international mail. This is ironic. The people and their businesses, direct customers and vendors get to carry this outrageous cost load of the USPS while 90% of the mail delivered to us  at discount bulk mail rates, no less  is mostly unwanted, unsolicited junk. That includes commercial and donor mailings, such as religious, medical and charitable letters and packages, most of which are obviously miscopied from mailing lists as our names are often misspelled. These bulk mailings add to all our costs by driving up USPS delivery and handling costs, as well as landfill and disposal costs in every city in the United States.

Possible solutions to unsolicited junk mail include:

(a) A $2/ounce USPS delivery charge with zero discounts for unsolicited, bulk mailings; and/or

(b) Allowing recipients of unsolicited junk mail to return to sender with the following tag or stickers provided by the USPS: Unsolicited, Unwanted mail. Return to Original Sender by USPS at Original Senders expense plus $2.00 charged to their USPS account. Stop all further mailings to returning addressee.

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Anything less than either of the above will not curb the abuse of the USPS.

Rex Alfonso, Missouri City

Proofreading

Regarding Apple, Travis Scott-linked companies will remain as defendants in Astroworld lawsuit, (April 10): The top of the front page of your April 11 edition contains the article caption Judge Mulls Defendants. I practiced law for 48 years before retiring last year, and while I understand how a judge could mull a ruling or decision, I have no idea how a judge could mull a defendant. Since the article reported that the judge in the Astroworld trial dismissed some defendants and retained others, I believe that the word should have been culls.

Over the decades that I have read your paper I have noticed an increasing number of incomplete sentences and typos creeping into your pages. I understand that it is not humanly possible to catch every single one of those, but it is embarrassing to see one on the front page.

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Mike Tibbets, Houston
Police are searching for a California college student who last spoke to her parents on the cell of a stranger, with her own phone later being found inside LAX.

Noelle Lynch, 23, was last seen last Wednesday around 5pm as she left an apartment building in Inglewood, Los Angeles.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Lynch left the apartment without any of her personal belongings and 'may or not be able to identify herself'.

Her father Mark Lynch told SFGate that his daughter is vulnerable and left their home in Sacramento in 'a difficult state of mind'.

Noelle Lynch, 23, was last seen last Wednesday around 5pm as she left an apartment building in Inglewood, Los Angeles

The 23-year-old is pictured second from the left during a day out with her friends

Lynch told the outlet: 'All that matters is trying to get her back. The more people that can open their eyes, the better.'

Noelle had been involved in a car accident according to her father, with her car being totaled.

'We didn't know where she was going', Mark added, 'and the next thing we knew she was in an accident in Los Angeles at 3am to 4am.'

Two other vehicles were also involved, he said, with no injuries being reported in the collision.

Noelle's mother Kellie then booked a hotel room for her daughter near LAX and the pair drove o meet her.

Their daughter didn't stay at the hotel, and Kellie later got a call from her daughter on a 'strange person's phone'.

According to Mark, the conversation was short and Noelle was 'mostly not making sense'. This was the last time her parents heard anything from her.

Her father Mark Lynch told SFGate that his daughter is vulnerable and left their home in Sacramento in 'a difficult state of mind'

A traveler walks through the Southwest ticketing counter area at the Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, April 18, 2023

It was later that same day she was spotted leaving the apartment building in Inglewood.

Her father said he does not know why she was at the apartment building, with detectives obtaining video of her daughter leaving.

Kellie went to the building and found her daughter's things which included a backpack.

Her phone was then found at the ticket counter of Southwest Airlines at LAX, but according to Mark there is no evidence she got on a plane.

Mark added: 'She always calls. This is very out of character. She has had a tough time but she has always called.'

Mom Kellie told ABC10: 'She's a good person, she's a good human, she's caring and kind.'

Noelle is a junior at Sacramento State, with the university confirming with the outlet that she is enrolled at the college.

Police say she was last seen wearing a dark green t-shirt, green sweatpants with a military logo, and white sneakers.
Iran is reportedly preparing a revenge attack on Israel in the next two days after two Iranian generals were killed in an airstrike in Syria.

The country has publicly threatened to hit back at Israel over the attack last week in Damascus that Tehran said was an Israeli airstrike on a diplomatic building.

A person briefed by the Iranian leadership told the Wall Street Journal that while plans to attack are being discussed no decision has been made.

An adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told the outlet: 'The strike plans are in front of the Supreme Leader and he is still weighing the political risk.'

Israel was widely blamed for an April 1 attack that destroyed Iran's consulate building in Damascus and killed seven Revolutionary Guards, including the two generals.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivers a speech at a program held at the Imam Khomeini Khosseini Hosseini in Tehran, Iran on April 03, 2022

Israel was widely blamed for an April 1 attack that destroyed Iran's consulate building in Damascus and killed seven Revolutionary Guards

Rescue workers search in the rubble of a building annexed to the Iranian embassy a day after an air strike in Damascus on April 2, 2024

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned Wednesday that Israel 'must be punished and will be punished', days after one of his advisers said Israeli embassies are 'no longer safe'.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly replied on social media site X that 'if Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack Iran'.

Days after Israel strengthened its air defenses and paused leave for combat units, the United States also warned of the risk of an attack by Iran or its allied groups at a time when Middle East tensions have soared.

Iran is 'threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel', President Biden said on Wednesday, pledging 'ironclad' support for its top regional ally despite diplomatic tensions over Israel's military conduct in Gaza.

US Central Command chief Michael Kurilla was in Israel on Thursday to discuss the situation with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, the Pentagon said.

'We warned Iran,' White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told a briefing without elaborating.

The strike on Monday levelled a five-storey building adjacent to the Iranian embassy in Damascus.

General Mohammad Reza Zahedi was one of those who died in the attack, having held a succession of commands in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' foreign operations arm, the Quds Force.

Iran warned arch foe Israel on April 2 that it will punish an air strike that killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of them generals

The rubble of a building annexed to the Iranian embassy is pictured a day after an air strike in Damascus on April 2, 2024

Iranian Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi was killed in Israeli air strikes on the Syrian capital

The US embassy in Israel has since announced it was restricting the movements of its diplomats over security fears.

They said that 'out of an abundance of caution' staffers and their family could not undertake personal travel outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheeva areas 'until further notice'.

During a visit to an airbase in central Israel, Netanyahu spoke of 'challenging times' on multiple fronts.

'We are in the middle of the war in Gaza which continues in full force... but we are also preparing for scenarios of challenges from other arenas,' he said in comments released by his office.

Iran enjoys a heavy advantage in terms of sheer manpower, boasting a collective active and reserve military of roughly 1.2 million troops as well as thousands upon thousands of artillery systems.

Israel meanwhile has around 750,000 active and military personnel at its disposal - but hundreds of thousands of these are already engaged in operations in and around Gaza, while others maintain a presence in the north to ward off border attacks from Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Though Israel is outnumbered, it is by no means outgunned - the IDF boasts more than 3,000 tanks in its ranks, roughly double the number thought to be in service in Iran.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock urged 'maximum restraint', and Lufthansa said it had extended a temporary suspension of Iran flights until Saturday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he had received phone calls Thursday from Baerbock as well as her British and Australian counterparts.

Regional tensions have been stoked by the Gaza war which began after Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack against Israel left 1,170 people dead, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.
South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has been banished from visiting ten percent of the lands in her own state after she accused some tribal leaders of benefiting from Mexican drug cartels.

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Council voted on Tuesday to formally ban the governor, 52, from its reservation for 'racially charged' claims she made in March during town hall meetings.

Standing Rock is the third tribal nation to ban the governor after the Oglala Sioux Tribe banished her from its reservation in February and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe banned her last week.

'Governor Kristi Noem's wild and irresponsible attempt to connect tribal leaders and parents with Mexican drug cartels is a sad reflection of her fear-based politics that do nothing to bring people together to solve problems,' said Tribal Chairwoman Janet Alkire.

'Rather than make uninformed and unsubstantiated claims, Noem should work with tribal leaders to increase funding and resources for tribal law enforcement and education,' she added.

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has been banished from visiting ten percent of the lands in her own state after she accused some tribal leaders of benefiting from Mexican drug cartels

Standing Rock is the third tribal nation to ban from tribal lands after the Oglala Sioux Tribe banished Noem from its reservation in February and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe banned her last week

Noem sparked outrage among Native Americans after she accused tribal leaders of being in league with Mexican drug cartels last month.

'We've got some tribal leaders that I believe are personally benefitting from the cartels being here, and that's why they attack me every day,' she said.

She also accused Native American parents of not being engaged in their children's lives and blamed them for the poor academic performance in tribal areas.

'My next step would be to do what I can to get a tribe to participate with me to help their kids be more successful,' Noem said.

'Because they live with 80% to 90% unemployment. Their kids don't have any hope. They don't have parents who show up and help them.

'They have a tribal council or a president who focuses on a political agenda more than they care about actually helping somebody's life look better.'

Her remarks left tribal leaders furious, with five tribes including the Standing Rock Sioux, the Oglala Sioux, the Cheyenne River Sioux, the Rosebud Sioux, and the Crow Creek Sioux since demanding an apology from Noem.

She has not apologized but instead released a statement last week calling on tribal leaders to banish the cartels.

'I call on all our tribal leaders to banish the cartels from tribal lands,' said Noem in the news release.

'The cartels instigate drug addiction, murder, rape, human trafficking, and so much more in tribal communities across the nation, including in South Dakota.

'I will work with you to sign Law Enforcement Agreements to immediately assist you, respect your sovereignty, and uphold tribal law,' she said.

On the same day she released the statement, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe council voted 12-0 to ban her from visiting the tribe's lands.

'This person has made a lot of accusations about the tribes, about the cartel, council representatives being in bed with the cartel, stuff like that. It's all false information,' said District Five representative Robert Walters, who presented the motion.

Prior to the vote, Noem showed up at the quarterly Pe' Sla meeting uninvited and unannounced, according to the council members.

'Mr. Chairman, I believe there has to be some kind of policy set up for her to show up at these tribal meetings. She can't just go in there and do her thing,' Walters said.

Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Chairman Ryman LeBeau said of Noem, 'The South Dakota governor speaks gossip and lies about our Lakota students, their parents and our tribal councils.

'(The) SD governor's statements made on March 13, 2024 perpetuate stereotypes, misconceptions, which are inaccurate and untrue.'

The Oglala Sioux Tribe was the first South Dekota tribe to ban the Republican after the remarks she made about the ever-growing crisis at the US-Mexico border.

She was 'banished' from the tribe's Pine Ridge Reservation after she said she wanted to send razor wire and security personnel to Texas to help deter migrants crossing into the US.

Her remarks left tribal leaders furious, with five tribes including the Standing Rock Sioux, the Oglala Sioux, the Cheyenne River Sioux, the Rosebud Sioux, and the Crow Creek Sioux since demanding an apology from Noem. Pictured: The Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairwoman Janet Alkire (left) and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Chairman Ryman LeBeau (right)

The Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out said: 'Due to the safety of the Oyate, effective immediately, you are hereby Banished from the homelands of the Oglala Sioux Tribe!'

Pictured: Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. The tribe has banned Governor Kristi Noem from going near its lands after the remarks she made about the ever-growing crisis at the US-Mexico border

The tribe's President Frank Star Comes Out accused Noem of using the border crisis to help get Trump get re-elected.

He said: 'Due to the safety of the Oyate, effective immediately, you are hereby Banished from the homelands of the Oglala Sioux Tribe!'

Speaking about the migrants coming into the US, the tribe leader added: 'They don't need to be put in cages, separated from their children like during the Trump Administration, or be cut up by razor wire furnished by, of all places, South Dakota.'

Noem said that a 'gang' calling itself the Ghost Dancers is murdering people on the Pine Ridge Reservation. But the leader took deep offense to this.

The Gov. previously said: 'Murders are being committed by cartel members on the Pine Ridge reservation and in Rapid City, and a gang called the 'Ghost Dancers' are affiliated with these cartels.

'They have been successful in recruiting tribal members to join their criminal activity.'

The tribal leader said Ghost Dance is one of the Oglala Sioux's 'most sacred ceremonies,' in their community - and he said her reference to this 'was used with blatant disrespect and is insulting to our Oyate.'

In response to the ban, Noem spokesman Ian Fury said, 'Banishing Governor Noem does nothing to solve the problem. She calls on all our tribal leaders to banish the cartels from tribal lands.'
The urban cowboy Uber Eats 'driver' who delivered an order on horseback has reportedly been scratched by the company.

Earlier this week a video of Stanley Chen riding a horse through the streets of Paddington in Sydney's inner-east went viral.

In what has turned into a 'night-mare' for Mr Chen, he claims he has been temporarily banned by Uber.

In the TikTok he shared on Thursday, Mr Chen exclaims, 'Look at what just happened, I got banned! I got banned! I can't believe this.'

Mr Chen shared the message he received from Uber where the company told him they had 'concerning feedback' from a customer.

Uber also told Mr Chen that 'you may have been delivering orders on animal (sic).'

Mr Chen jokingly refuted this statement by saying his horse 'Leilani is not an animal, she is a queen!' I can't believe you banned her!'

On Wednesday TikTokker @jessielouiset shared the original short clip of Mr Chen riding his horse through the streets of Paddington. It has now had millions of views.

Pedestrians stopped to take videos and looked bemused and delighted to see the horse gently loping down the busy shopping strip.

Mr Chen and Leilani strut through Paddington in Sydney - pedestrians stopped to take videos and looked bemused and delighted to see the horse gently loping down the busy shopping strip

Mr Chen has urged his supporters to get in touch with Uber to reverse his and Leilani's ban.

'If you want to see me and Leilani do more Uber delivery orders, go message and tell them to unban me,' he said.

Mr Chen and his new social media fans will be hoping Uber gets off its high horse and reverses its decision.

Uber Eats has been approached for comment.
A Dallas woman who was left fighting for her life after a horror hit-and-run crash that killed her roommate has been breathing unaided for the first time in two months.

Camryn Herriage, 23, was left on a ventilator after being involved in the smash alongside her college roommate and three other friends on February 11.

Their vehicle was waiting at a red light on Beckley Avenue, Dallas, when a Ford pickup truck slammed into them, causing a chain reaction car crash.

Herriage was rushed to hospital and placed on a ventilator while her college roommate Sara House, 22, lost her life in the horrific collision.

Her uncle Tim Herriage said on Facebook this week Camryn had been breathing on her own, writing: 'Camryn has been breathing on her own for over 24 hours!'

Camryn Herriage, 23, was riding in a car alongside her college roommate and three other friends on February 11

On Sunday, her uncle Tim Herriage said on Facebook that Camryn had been breathing on her own

Herriage's best friend and college roommate from Texas Tech University, Sara House, (pictured) tragically died in the hit-and-run

Their vehicle was waiting at a red light on Beckley Avenue, in Dallas, when a Ford pickup truck slammed into them, causing a chain reaction car crash

All of the passengers were rushed to hospital where Herriage had been relying on a ventilator before she turned a corner last week

He added: 'A speech therapist will visit soon to assess her ability to use voice control.

'This step could potentially lead to her trying to speak, and if successful, they might plug the tracheostomy.

'Additionally, there's a hopeful outlook for Camryn to transition into a regular room within the next week or so.

'All of these developments are positive signs of Camryn's progress. Thank you for your continued support as we embrace this good news.'

The two were struck by an 'extremely intoxicated' woman, later identified as 27-year-old Carmen Guerrero who bystanders say fled the scene on foot.

Guerrero was later arrested 11 days after the collision when detectives located her wallet in her vehicle.

She is now facing multiple charges, including manslaughter and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She is being held in Dallas County jail.

House worked at Ralph Lauren after graduating from Texas Tech, having studied business, management and marketing and also competed in bikini competitions.

The woman who allegedly took off was later identified by police as 27-year-old Carmen Guerrero

Herriage works at a social media management and branding company based in Lubbock, Texas

The pair of college roommates (pictured) were extremely close and would often make TikToks together, which Herriage shared on her profile boasting 32,000 followers

House was remembered in a GoFundMe, which has raised over $36,000, for her 'bright spirit and infectious laughter'.

'Sara was known for her compassionate nature and her unwavering desire to make everyone around her happy,' her loved ones said last month.

'Her kindness and caring demeanor touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.'

Herriage's sister Casie Campanello previously said: 'A careless act put us in a situation that change all of our lives.

While Herriage continues to fight for her life in the ICU, her older sister Casie Campanello hasn't left her side for weeks. 'Literally, a careless act. Put us in a situation that changed all of our lives'

Herriage, 23, was riding in a car alongside friends when they were struck

Sara House worked as an executive sales associate assistant at Ralph Lauren after graduating from Texas Tech, having studied business, management and marketing and competed in bikini competitions

'We are very helpless and just stay strong her her, but it's very difficult to see. When she came out of her first surgery the surgeon told us he told us he never saw anyone make it to the hospital with her injury. So she has a purpose.'

The college roommates were extremely close and would often make TikToks together, which Herriage shared on her profile boasting 32,000 followers.

Herriage works at a social media management and branding company based in Lubbock, Texas.

She had only recently moved back to North Texas after graduating from college in December.
A young girl facing a sweep of serious terror charges has fronted court for her first public hearing, hiding behind long black cloth as she entered and left the court.

South Australian terror cops swooped in on the Adelaide girl in mid March following an investigation, charging her with possessing explosive instructions and 19 counts of possessing extremist material.

The girl, appearing before Magistrate Tracee Micallef at Adelaide Youth Court on Friday, wore black jeans and sneakers and sat quietly throughout proceedings.

A young girl (pictured) facing a sweep of serious terror charges appeared before Magistrate Tracee Micallef at Adelaide Youth Court on Friday

South Australian terror cops swooped in on the Adelaide girl in mid March (pictured, the teen outside court on Friday)

Andrew Williams, appearing for the girl, asked Ms Micallef to close the hearing to protect his client's welfare.

'This is a very young girl,' he said.

'This needs to be handled delicately and privately.'

Reporters at the hearing opposed the application to close the court, arguing public interest in the case, and Ms Micallef adjourned the court to consider the issue.

On her return, she decided to exclude the media from the hearing but left open the possibility of future reporting into the case.

'The information that was provided to me for discussion was of a nature relating to the personal health and wellbeing of the young person, but the matter is simply being adjourned for further consideration.

'So I'm not excluding the media ad infinitum, each magistrate will consider the position based on what is being heard on that particular day.'

Andrew Williams (pictured), the girl's defence lawyer, asked Magistrate Micallef to close the hearing to media

The girl (pictured) has been charged with possessing explosive instructions and 19 counts of possessing extremist material

The girl will return to court for another hearing on April 19.

On leaving the court, a young man in long black pants and a long-sleeved white business shirt helped the girl make her way to a waiting red car, which then quickly sped away.

Following her arrest in March, the police stated, 'material that directly or indirectly encourages, glorifies, promotes or condones terrorist acts, or seeks support for, or justifies the carrying out of terrorist acts is considered to be extremist material.'
The husband of a former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader who died from sepsis after delivering her stillbirth daughter has spoken out about his loss and revealed it was the family's second devastating death after losing another baby in 2022 in the same way.

Krystal Anderson, 40, died of sepsis days after delivering her daughter, Charlotte Willow, at just five months pregnant on March 20.

It was already a high risk pregnancy. Four weeks earlier, Krystal underwent a procedure on her cervix and she was due to move in to the hospital two weeks after she died.

It was the second time the couple lost a baby to stillbirth. In 2022, Krystal delivered a son, James, who had died in the womb.

Now, her husband Clayton is speaking out against the medical system that he says failed to protect his wife and does not do enough for expectant mothers, particularly black women in their early 40s.

Scroll down for video:

Krystal Anderson, 40, died of sepsis days after delivering her daughter, Charlotte Willow, at just five months pregnant. Weeks removed, Clayton Anderson (right) recalled the emotion felt by him and her when they got news of the pregnancy, after losing a child to stillbirth in 2022

He remembered his late wife as his 'world' - as well as his best friend and the love of his life. He also criticized the US medical system for alleged neglect of expectant moms with a history of problematic pregnancies, especially black women of a certain age

Appearing on ABC News' Good Morning America, he recalled how the couple viewed the child as a sign that all would be well, following their loss a couple years ago.

'It was like our little sign from him that, 'Hey, Mom, Dad, I got you. Don't worry about it,' he said, referring to the revelation that Krystal was once again pregnant and the loss of their first child to stillbirth,

Of his wife, he said while choking up: 'She was my world. She was my best friend and, obviously, the love of my life and mother to our children.'

He went on to pivot to the state of medical practice in America, seemingly insinuating that his beloved's death was preventable.

Sepsis is caused by the body's failed attempt to respond to an infection, and maternal sepsis - the afflictions that arises when the body's response to infection causes injury to its own tissues and organs during pregnancy - disproportionately affects black women, like Krystal.

He asserted in the sit-down held via Zoom: 'One of the issues that I guess I have with the system overall is Krystal is 40, and she's Black, and we'd had a loss before,

'But even then, they say, you know, 'You can't start a plan with maternal fetal medicine or the high-risk maternity doctors until you get to week 14,'' he continued.

'All pregnancy is high risk.'

Appearing on ABC News' Good Morning America, he recalled how the couple viewed the child as a sign that all would be well, following their loss a couple years ago.

'Especially, more so, when you're a woman of color, or you're older.

'They should be treated that way from the start.'

AdventHealth Shawnee, the hospital that cared for Krystal in late March, did not offer specific details regarding the care they provided, due to laws designed to protect privacy.

The hospital did, however, provide a statement Thursday, when asked by ABC News for comment.

It reportedly read: 'Our hearts are hurting in this tragic situation. We along with the independent providers who deliver care in our facilities strive to provide the best possible care to every patient based on their specific needs and circumstances.

'We extend our prayers and support to family members and loved ones experiencing the devastating loss of previous life.'

He went on to recall how, on March 16, the couple rushed to the hospital after Krystal began feeling off.

Doctors soon found the presence of amitotic flued and could not detect a heartbeat from the fetus by that evening, confirming that Charlotte was dead.

After the couple mourned the loss of their daughter, Krystal suddenly developed a fever, and things got dramatically worse from there.

He recalled how after the couple mourned the loss of their second stillborn daughter, Krystal suddenly developed a fever, and things got dramatically worse from there. She died days later, but her legacy, her husband said, lives on

He recalled of what doctors told him and her at the time: 'They're like, 'We have to get Charlotte out of there, because you're [speaking to Krystal] not trending very well.

'And now, it's about saving you, Mama - not just Charlotte,' he recalled further, before remembering how he and his wife asked doctors to let them hold their daughter one final time.

'And so, we asked, like, 'Is there a way that you can try to get Charlotte out? That way we can hold her, because that means a lot, to hold your baby, even if they're passed on.

'And they said, they'll try,' he recalled.

Krystal then started to develop complications from sepsis, which led to multi-organ failure. She passed just away days later.

As one final remembrancer, he added that the accomplished cheerleader 'would want everything to shine and sparkle, and she would want her laughter to be spread.

'So, while obviously this is terrible and tragic and, you know, I don't think she wanted to be the person to champion these causes,' he went on, 'if she was going to do it, she was going to do it with joy.'

Her legacy, he said, lives on.
Children as young as nine are being added to dangerous WhatsApp groups promoting self-harm, sexual violence and racism - as the messaging app cut its minimum age of use to 13 in the UK.

Parents across North Tyneside have been alerted to the existence of the group after a report of malicious content was made to Northumbria Police.

The force then issued a notice to schools across the region, warning that three young children have been hospitalised because of content seen within the group, which encourages youngsters to self-harm using a 'points-based system'.

WhatsApp owner Meta says users can control the groups they are added to but Ian Russell, father of 14-year-old Molly Russell - who took her own life after being exposed to self-harm content on social media - says tech firms need to do more.

Warnings were first distributed to parents across North Tyneside last month after police received a report pertaining to malicious communications in the group.

Has YOUR child been added to the groups? Email jon.brady@mailonline.co.uk

Warnings about the WhatsApp group have been shared among parents in the north-east of England

London schoolgirl Molly Russell, 14, who took her own life after being exposed to self-harm content on social media

Molly's father and online safety campaigner Ian Russell

The discovery of the group comes after Meta reduced the minimum age on WhatsApp from 16 to 13. Children younger than this are using the app regardless

Since then, several schools have shared details of the group with parents, who in turn have shown its contents to the BBC, which reports that one chat contained images of mutilated bodies.

One of the groups, called 'everyone you know x', is suggested to have more than 500 members and is expanding across the north-east of England.

WhatsApp's terms of service state the platform should only be used by those aged 13 or over. It announced the reduction of the age limit from 16 to 13 earlier this year.

But schools have suggested Year 5 pupils - who could be as young as nine - are joining the groups.

The app uses end-to-end encryption for its messages - meaning that only those who are sending and receiving the messages to each other can see their contents. Not even Meta can see encrypted texts.

The warning sent to parents states: 'The content and language are not age appropriate and encourages young people to self-harm on a points-based system, with reference to suicide.

'The group originated in North Tyneside but now appears to be growing and circulating in wider areas of the North East. It is currently aimed at Year 6 students but is likely to start affecting other year groups.

'There are already 500+ members in the group, many of whom have been added to the group without their consent, by a third party because their social media settings are not secure enough.

'To date three young people have been hospitalised as a result of actions within this group.

'We urge you to check your children's phones to ensure that they are not subject to this group and ask you to make sure their privacy settings are secure.'

BBC News reports the content shared in the group included sexual images, racism, swearing and content advocating self-harm and suicide.

Such content was linked to the death of 14-year-old schoolgirl Molly Russell from London, who took her own life in November 2017.

Her death blindsided her family, who had watched TV with her the night before and had no idea she had been viewing harmful content on social media.

An inquest into her death concluded she had died from an act of self-harm while suffering from depression and 'the negative effects of online content.'

Her father Ian Russell, who has since become a campaigner for better safety controls on social media and for tech firms to take more responsibility for the content shared on their platforms, said the WhatsApp group was 'really disturbing'.

He told the BBC: 'The social media platforms themselves don't know the kinds of messages they're conveying and that makes it different from most social media harm.

'If the platforms don't know and the rest of the world don't know, how are we going to make it safe?'

One of the warnings distributed by schools across North Tyneside, which warns that three children have been hospitalised because of content on the group

There are concerns children are being exposed to harmful content on social media with tech firms not doing enough to keep youngsters safe (stock photo)

Molly Russell's mother Janet, father Ian and her two sisters arrive at her inquest in September 2022. It concluded she took her own life after being exposed to self-harm content online whilst battling depression

Northumbria Police said in a statement: 'On Friday, March 22, we received a report of malicious communications linked to a group on a social media messaging app containing inappropriate content aimed at young people.

'Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with concerns should use the 'Report' page of our website or call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.'

A spokesperson for the force added: 'We would continue to encourage people to take an interest in their children's use of social media and report any concerns to police.'

WhatsApp is the second most-popular social communication app among British children, with 55 per cent of children under 17 using it ahead of TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook, according to Ofcom research.

The lowered age limit of 13, announced earlier this year, has been slated by tech campaigners who say children are being exposed to 'extreme content'.

Campaign group Smartphone Free Childhood said the move by Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram, was 'tone deaf'.

The group's founder, Daisy Greenwell told The Times: 'WhatsApp is putting shareholder profits first and children's safety second.

'Among parents, WhatsApp is seen as the safest social media app, 'because it's just messaging, right?'.

'WhatsApp is far from risk-free. It's often the first platform where children are exposed to extreme content, bullying is rife and it's the messaging app of choice for sexual predators due to its end-to-end encryption.'

A Meta spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We give all users options to control who can add them to groups and the first time you receive a message from an unknown number we give you the option to block and report the account.'

Sources in the tech firm have stressed that WhatsApp requires people to provide their phone number in order to be contacted, and cannot be found on the app otherwise - and that the app has a number of privacy controls.

But under the new Online Safety Act, tech firms now a duty of care towards users, including systems allowing users to filter out harmful content, and regulator Ofcom can issue multi-million pound fines to firms found to fall foul of this requirement.

Today, Ofcom online safety director Mark Bunting said it has more plans in the works to protect children online - including codes of practice that tech firms must abide by in order to operate in the UK.

He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'We have made proposals already about what services can do to keep children safe - and a lot of this is about the default settings that apply to child users.

'We have made recommendations that services shouldn't prompt children to expand their network of friends, not recommend children to their users and crucially not allow people to send direct messages to children that they are not already connected with.

'In the next phase of work we will be looking at the risks that arise when children are added to these groups without their consent.'

But Paulina, the mother of a child added to one of such group, told the programme: 'These companies can be fined all day but they make so much money the incentive isn't really there to protect children.'

WhatsApp is among the most popular social apps used by under-17s in Britain - more popular than Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok

He added: 'So when our powers come into force next year we will be able hold them to account about the effectiveness of what they are doing.

'If they are not taking those steps at that point and they can't demonstrate to us that they are taking alternative steps which are effective at keeping children safe then we will be able to investigate.

'We have powers to direct them to make changes if we believe change is necessary to make. If we they don't comply with those directions then we have powers to levy fines and we won't hesitate to use those powers.'

This week, Meta unveiled new protective measures for sister app Instagram that will warn users if they have been sent - or try to send - an unsolicited nude image.

The option will be turned on automatically for users under 18, with others able to activate it if they wish.

Meta says the move is designed to combat sextortion scams - when fraudsters try to extract intimate images from people and then threaten to send the images to their loved ones unless they pay a ransom.

There is no word on whether similar controls will be introduced to WhatsApp.
Anthony Albanese will commemorate Anzac Day by walking part of the Kokoda Track alongside his Papua New Guinea counterpart, James Marape.

As Australia pushes for closer diplomatic ties with the Pacific nation, the two prime ministers will spend a few days walking before attending a Dawn Service at Isurava on April 25 to commemorate the 600 Australians who died during the Kokoda campaign of the Second World War.

Announcing his visit on Friday, Mr Albanese said it would honour the sacrifice of hundreds of Australians who fought along the track to defend against a Japanese invasion more than 80 years ago.

Anthony Albanese will commemorate Anzac Day by walking part of the Kokoda Track with Papua New Guinea PM James Marape

'This year on Anzac Day I will be in Isurava on the Kokoda Track, taking the opportunity to show my respect to the remarkable effort to protect our nation at one of its darkest hours,' he said in a speech on Friday.

'We will gather in the peace that is the gift to us from generations of Australians who have taken up arms in our name.

'We will gather to remember all who have served and all who serve now. We will remember all who lost their lives, all who survived and came home.'

Mr Albanese will become the first sitting prime minister to walk the famous track, and it follows his historic address to the PNG parliament last January - the first Australian prime minister to do so.

Mr Marape addressed Australia's parliament in Canberra in February.

Kevin Rudd walked the track in 2006 while opposition leader, as did Scott Morrison in 2009 while a backbench MP.

Mr Albanese will become the first sitting prime minister to walk the famous track

The famous track stretches 96km - 60km in a straight line - from the Kokoda Plateau to Owers Corner, where Australian forces were stationed in July 1942 to stop the Japanese advancement on capital Port Moresby.

In addition to the 600 people who died, thousands more Australians were seriously injured or became ill.
Letters exchanged by Hamas leaders have revealed how Iran appears to have awarded at least 200 million to the Palestinian militant group since 2014.

One document, seemingly written in 2020 by a top official in Hamas' armed wing, Marwan Issa (Abu Baraa), and addressed to the group's leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar (Abu Ibrahim), showed a table of payments totalling $154 million from the Islamic Republic to Hamas coffers.

A second handwritten letter in November 2021 goes on to show the receipt of at least another $68 million and references to further expected payments.

The Israeli military, which allegedly uncovered the letters amid their operations in Gaza, told The Times they believe the documents prove Iran's systematic funding of the Hamas group prior to the October 7 attacks which prompted the outbreak of war.

They claim the money was transferred into Hamas accounts in Gaza via a complex system that sees members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds force (IRGC-QF) deliver huge sums of cash to Hamas contacts in Lebanon.

Once in Beirut, the money is squirrelled across the border by a network of money-changers using shell companies, crypto-currency, shipping transactions and various credit schemes to funnel the money to Hamas chiefs.

Head of the political wing of the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip Yahya Sinwar

Palestinian group Hamas' top leader, Ismail Haniyeh, speaks during a press conference in Tehran, Iran, March 26, 2024

One document, seemingly written in 2020 by Marwan Issa, showed a table of payments totalling $154 million from the Islamic Republic to Hamas coffers

Letters exchanged by Hamas leaders have revealed how Iran appears to have awarded at least 200 million to the Palestinian militant group since 2014

Palestinian Hamas militants ride on a truck as they display a rocket during an anti-Israel rally in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip May 28, 2021

Iran warned arch foe Israel on April 2 that it will punish an air strike that killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of them generals

The documents detail how much of the money was paid directly to several top Hamas officials including Issa and Sinwar, as well as Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh and military commander Mohammed Deif, all of whom were implicated in planning the October 7 attacks on Israeli civilians.

But Israel and the US have targeted the Hamas elite and have also worked to dismantle the networks that continue to fund the Palestinian group.

Issa is believed to have died in an Israeli airstrike on March 11, according to the IDF and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.

And though Haniyeh is sheltering from the IDF's bombs in Qatar, three of his sons and several of his grandchildren are said to have been killed in a strike in Gaza earlier this week.

Meanwhile, Saleh al-Arouri, another Hamas official marshalling the group from Beirut who was thought to be a key link in the money-changing chain, was killed in a drone strike in January.

Then on April 1, an Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate building in Damascus, Syria, killed 13 people, including Quds force generals Mohammad Reza Zahedi and Mohammad Hadi Hajriahimi.

Zahedi is thought to have worked with al-Arouri to deliver IRGC funds to money-changers in Lebanon.

Mohammad Surur, a man said to be connected to Hezbollah facilitating payments to Hamas, was found dead near the Lebanese capital earlier this week.

For its part, the US has launched a battery of sanctions designed to cripple the money-changing network Hamas relies on to receive payments from Iran.

Financial exchanges in Gaza, an Iraqi airline and backers of Iranian-linked militias in Iraq were just some of the entities subject to economic freezes in measures announced in January by the US Treasury.

'Sanctions are just one of the many levers at our disposal when it comes to holding Iran and some of its proxies accountable,' State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel told a news briefing.

The moves would have 'tangible impacts' on groups Washington blames for destabilising the Middle East, Patel said.

For example, he said, the US hoped blacklisting Iraq's Fly Baghdad airline and its chief executive would 'disrupt' the airline's alleged role in carrying supplies and personnel into Syria for the Quds Force.

Head of the political wing of the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip Yahya Sinwar speaks during a meeting in Gaza City on April 30, 2022

Marwan Issa, the deputy leader of Hamas' militant group, was reportedly killed in an Israeli strike on March 11, with his death only now confirmed, according to US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei

Iranian Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi was killed in Israeli air strikes on the Syrian capital

The revelation comes as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate, with the prospect of tit-for-tat strikes spiralling into a wider conflict looking increasingly likely.

The Islamic Republic vowed revenge on what it calls the 'evil Zionist regime' after the lethal strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that killed General Zahedi.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei vowed retribution in the wake of the attack, to which Tel-Aviv - yet to take responsibility for the strike on Damascus - retorted swiftly.

Foreign minister Israel Katz declared bluntly: 'If Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran' - the latest step in a venomous war of words that threatens to spill over.

The warning was quickly followed by the Israeli strike in Gaza that reportedly killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's three sons.

Professor Gerald Steinberg, an expert in conflict management and founder of Jerusalem-based NGO Monitor, said a potential war between Iran and Israel would be both futile and devastating.

'They are on the verge of a confrontation similar to the October 1962 Cuban missile crisis between Washington and Moscow. Both countries can do massive damage to the other, but neither can 'win',' he said.

Wyn Bowen, Professor of International Security at King's College London's Department of War Studies, told MailOnline that it is unlikely Iran will seek to directly attack targets on Israeli soil, lest it risk an uncontrollable military response from Israel and its chief ally, the US.

But he also cautioned 'the Iranian leadership is under significant pressure to respond robustly' to the consulate attack, suggesting that a direct conflict, albeit unlikely, must be considered.
At a February press conference in Eagle Pass, Gov. Greg Abbott declared that border-crossing numbers show his efforts are working. If the feds did what hes doing, he said, you would eliminate illegal immigration overnight. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

Gov. Greg Abbott has spent $10 billion of taxpayer money to secure the border. It hasnt worked.

But Abbott claims victory anyway. He notes that fewer migrants have been crossing the border into Texas, a sign that his spending spree, which includes National Guard troops, various floating barriers, helicopters, boats and lots and lots of razor wire, is paying off.

In February, the Border Patrol reported a little over 53,000 encounters with migrants along the Texas border, compared with around 87,000 total for Arizona and California. Last year, those numbers were reversed  agents in Texas encountered nearly 76,000 migrants compared with almost 55,000 in the other two states.

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I should note that encounters is an imprecise term that includes apprehensions, expulsions and rejection of inadmissible asylum claims. But it doesnt really tell us how many individual migrants crossed the border illegally and werent caught, for example, or how many may have crossed multiple times.

Nevertheless, theyre the best numbers we have, and at a February press conference in Eagle Pass, Abbott said those numbers show his efforts are working. He even argued that if the feds did what hes doing, you would eliminate illegal immigration overnight.

Except, of course, you wouldnt. Texas hasnt eliminated illegal border crossings; its simply slowed them by about 30%. But large numbers of migrants are still coming into Texas.

Texas hasnt eliminated illegal border crossings; its simply slowed them by about 30%. But a large number of migrants still come in. Above: In March, immigrants passed through coils of razor wire while crossing the border in El Paso. John Moore/Getty Images

The question is whether the reduction of 23,000 encounters is worth the $10 billion investment. Ten billion dollars over three years, by the way, is about double what the state spent annually for the entire Department of Public Safety in each of the past three fiscal years. If we can believe the numbers, the spending works out to roughly $435,000 for each migrant encountered.

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More to the point, if the feds said they were going to spend that eye-popping amount to stop each migrant, and if two-thirds would still get across, I doubt Abbott would tout the success of the program.

The shame is that these billions and billions of dollars are not an investment in policy, but an investment in politics, said Tony Payan, director of the Mexico Center at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy. Has the $10 billion that taxpayers have invested changed anything structurally? Has the problem been solved? The answer is no.

Part of the problem is that all the numbers are squishy. Migrants who arent caught arent counted. Which means that Abbotts $10 billion spending spree might be less effective than his already dubious claims imply.

READERS REACT: Gov. Abbotts obsessions are costing taxpayers a fortune

More importantly, other factors can affect the flow of migrants, including colder weather. If migrant encounters rise this spring, as they frequently do as the weather warms, what will that say about Abbotts program? Should we just throw more taxpayer money at the problem?

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Payan pointed out to me that part of the decline in migrants may result from an agreement reached between the Biden administration and officials in Mexico to stem illegal migration. That helped reduce, at least temporarily, the number of migrants crossing the border in places like El Paso.

But over the three years that Abbotts Operation Lone Star has been in effect, the numbers go up and down with very little relationship to the governments efforts, Payan said. All of this makes for a good show, and when it comes to political theater, Abbott is the master of ceremonies. He knows his audience, and he knows how to keep them coming back for more. While he touts his programs effectiveness, he also knows it wont solve the problem. If it did, hed lose a powerful political tool.

Lets say for a moment that Abbott is right. His policies alone are acting as a deterrent. The numbers seem to indicate that migrants are simply crossing into another state. Abbotts actions risk turning border security into an auction, in which states that spend fewer tax dollars get more undocumented migrants.

MORE READER REACTIONS: Congratulations to Gov. Abbott and his rich donors

Its a reminder that theres a reason immigration is a federal issue that needs to be addressed at the federal level.

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Abbott is right when he argues border states bear a disproportionate burden from illegal immigration and the feds should do more about it. And because the feds wont, its understandable that a governor would take action.

Abbotts program to bus migrants to other states, for example, was not a bad idea. But he should have coordinated with the recipient states so that they were ready. Instead, Abbott turned a good idea into a political stunt and an act of cruelty toward the people involved.

The real question: Is it worth $435,000 per migrant stopped from entering Texas? Above: The Texas National Guard confronts a migrant on the border near Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Anadolu/Anadolu via Getty Images

Abbott is also right to complain that the feds should do more, but hes selective in pointing the finger. He blames the White House, which is almost as powerless as he is to address the problem. Congress, on the other hand, does have the power to tackle the border crisis, and indeed had a hard-fought bipartisan bill just a few months ago that would have gone a long way toward doing just that. Members of Abbotts own party, and indeed members from his own state, torpedoed the bill.

Nevertheless, Abbotts plan is a political success because it offers no accountability. The program never had a defined vision of success. Abbott has never set a goal, such as specifying how many migrants the program was designed to stop, which makes it impossible to assess its effectiveness.

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By not setting any objectives, it allows the governor to claim success no matter what he accomplishes, Payan said.

And so, in Texas, the taps of tax dollars continue to open wide, pouring into a middling scheme whose political popularity masks a wasteful and ineffective policy.
A mum who mistook a whirring sound in her right ear for tinnitus was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Denise Wingfield, 55, struggled to sleep because of the dull, 'funny' noise and was referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist, who told her she had tinnitus.

But following an MRI, doctors found an anomaly on her brain and a month later Denise underwent a nine hour awake craniotomy.

After the procedure, the mum-of-three from Bristol was diagnosed with grade 2 oligodendroglioma - a rare brain tumour.

Ms Wingfield had a further surgery following complications from the craniotomy, as well as six weeks of radiotherapy and four rounds of chemotherapy.

She is still being monitored by doctors today after a recent scan in January 2024 showed the tumour had grown.

Doctors found an anomaly on Denise Wingfield's brain and a month later Denise underwent a nine hour awake craniotomy

The 55-year-old struggled to sleep because of the dull, 'funny' noise and was referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist and was told she had tinnitus

Following the procedure, the mum-of-three was diagnosed with grade 2 oligodendroglioma - a rare brain tumour

Ms Wingfield, a previous kitchen assistant at a care home, said: 'I had no symptoms other than a funny noise in my ear.

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the name for hearing noises that do not come from an outside source. A person may hear a ringing, buzzing or hissing sound in one or both ears, or in their head. These sounds may come and go, or you might hear them all the time. It is not always clear what causes tinnitus, but it is often linked to some form of hearing loss. It is also linked with conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders or multiple sclerosis, as well as anxiety and depression. Advertisement

'When I tried to sleep at night it seemed louder although it was there all the time - I never for a moment imagined it was caused by a brain tumour.

'Due to my tumour being slow growing, my medical team want to wait for further growth before they place me on another treatment plan - including a less brutal version of chemotherapy.

'Although it's scary to know that it is still growing, I am being scanned regularly which offers some comfort.'

Ms Wingfield was referred to a specialist in October 2019 and was diagnosed with grade 2 oligodendroglioma in November of the same year.

She struggles with fatigue and minor balance issues but is passionate about raising money for Brain Tumour Research.

Last month she hosted a coffee morning for Wear a Hat Day and, in May, Ms Wingfield will be doing a '200k in May' challenge.

She can run, jog, run, cycle and swim the distance over the month for Brain Tumour Research.

Ms Wingfield said: 'Walking has become quite therapeutic for me. I'm able to put on my headphones with some music and get on with putting one front of the other, being mindful in the moment.

'I've found myself wanting to live my life to the full.

Ms Wingfield was referred to a specialist in October 2019 and was diagnosed with grade 2 oligodendroglioma in November of the same year.

She struggles with fatigue and minor balance issues but is passionate about raising money for Brain Tumour Research

Ms Wingfield is still being monitored by doctors, after a recent scan in January 2024 showed the tumour had grown

In May, Ms Wingfield (pictured canoeing in Canada) will be doing a '200k in May' challenge - where she will run, jog, run, cycle and swim the distance over the month for Brain Tumour Research

'In the years since surgery, I have travelled and taken part in adrenaline fuelled activities including a zip wire with my son from the end of Bournemouth pier to the beach.'

Louise Aubrey, community development manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: 'Sadly Denise's story is not unique.

'In the UK, 16,000 people each year are diagnoses with a brain tumour, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to brain tumours since records began in 2022.'
This is the moment a husband catches his politician wife in bed with their adopted Buddhist monk son in a scandal that has rocked Thailand.

Footage shows the moment the suspicious businessman surprised the lovers while they were romping in the marital bedroom at their home in Sukhothai, Thailand.

Bursting in on the couple, the 64-year-old is seen barging into the bedroom and pulling off the bedsheets to reveal his naked Democrat Party wife Prapaporn Choeiwadkoh, 45, alongside naked monk Phra Maha.

As the shocked lovers scramble to get out of bed, the fuming husband named only as Ti is heard snarling: 'Are you two very happy?'

Shamed Choeiwadkoh later told local media: 'We didn't have sex then. Nothing happened, it's not what it looks like in the video. He had some problems, so we were just talking together, and then we were going to shower.'

Bursting in on the couple, the 64-year-old is seen barging into the bedroom and pulling off the bedsheets to reveal his naked Democrat Party wife Prapaporn Choeiwadkoh (pictured), 45, alongside naked monk Phra Maha

Phra Maha (pictured) has now reportedly left the monkhood and gone into hiding

Video shows the moment the suspicious businessman husband surprised the lovers while they were romping in the marital bedroom at their home in Sukhothai, Thailand

Husband Ti said he had been suspicious of his wife's and had decided to drive the 5.5 hours from Bangkok to Sukhothai to catch her in the act.

He added that he blamed the monk for 'seducing his wife'.

READ MORE: Thai Buddhist temple runs out of monks after all of its holy men are dismissed for failing DRUG TESTS Advertisement

The wealthy property developer said that last year, his wife told him she felt sorry for the monk and asked if they could 'adopt' him.

Jilted Ti said: 'My wife has always been very religious. We even met at the local temple. But recently I noticed that she was spending more time with the young monks.

'I even saw her go into a monk's cabin when the curtains were closed. I knocked on the door for a long time but nobody answered.

'When she came out I was suspicious, but she said she had been praying with the monk.

'With regards to this boy, I think that he tricked my wife and seduced her. She told me last year that she felt sorry for him, so we decided to adopt him as our own son.

'I came home early when she didn't answer her phone. I suspected something was wrong.

'I was so angry when I found them together, I feel so betrayed. I had brought her gold and given her many gifts.'

Bursting in on the couple, the 64-year-old is seen barging into the bedroom and pulling off the bedsheets to reveal his naked Democrat Party wife Prapaporn Choeiwadkoh, 45, alongside naked monk Phra Maha

Her husband Ti said: 'I came home early when she didn't answer her phone. I suspected something was wrong. I was so angry when I found them together, I feel so betrayed. I had brought her gold and given her many gifts'

Officials from the country's Democrat Party have now suspended the cheating woman while they investigate.

Prapaporn, also known as 'Madam Ple', has been a Democrat since March 26 last year, but was inactive in the party's affairs since the general elections last May.

She has not held any official position within the party.

Phra Maha has now reportedly left the monkhood and gone into hiding.

Buddhist monks in Thailand are not allowed to be alone in private with females and also take an oath of celibacy to serve as an example to their devotees.
Cars have been left submerged by floodwaters with drivers plucked from their stricken vehicles as a deluge of rain battered Perth.

A severe thunderstorm barrelled into the city from the north on Friday afternoon, with heavy rain and hail falling.

The storm first hit Kingsley, Two Rocks and Wangara at lunchtime, Bureau of Meterology spokesman Daniel Hayes told WA Today.

A severe thunderstorm barrelled into Perth from the north on Friday afternoon, with heavy rain and hail falling

Pinjar and Yanchep were next in the firing line, with Butler, Neerabup, Guilderton, Joondalup, Tapping and Wanneroo all likely to be hit by the storm and left prone to flash flooding.

As much as 50mm of rain fell in some parts of the city, which up until now had only registered 8.4mm of rain since the start of the year.

An official emergency warning has been issued for 200km of coastline from Jurien Bay to Hillarys - and as far inland as Gingin.

Drivers have been warned to steer clear of deep water. Parts of the Mitchell Freeway northbound have been flooded.

More than 40 calls have been made to the SES due to the downpours, with some saying their homes have been flooded while others have reported hail damage.

Ocean Keys Shopping Centre in Clarkson had to close off part of the mall after water started cascading through the roof.

Cars have been left submerged by floodwaters with drivers plucked from their stricken vehicles as a deluge of rain battered Perth
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Samantha Murphy's husband has thanked the Ballarat community for their support at a rally calling for an end to violence against women, after Ms Murphy, Hannah McGuire and Rebecca Young were all killed in the Victorian city in just two months.

Michael Murphy said he had not planned to speak to the crowd, but felt compelled when he saw 1,000 community members turnout on Friday night, many with handwritten signs.

'I'd like to thank you all for coming and supporting the families of the three women,' he said.

'If you see something that's not right, speak up. Let the authorities know.

'On a positive note, the support here behind the women and the violence is incredible.'

A 'Bring Sam home', chant echoed loud from the crowd.

Samantha Murphy, 51, vanished from her home in Ballarat East while going for a run on February 4

Hannah McGuire, 23, was allegedly murdered by her ex-boyfriend Lachlan Young a week ago

Ms Murphy's husband Mick spoke at a rally calling for an end to violence against women on Friday night

The family of Rebecca Young are seen consoling each other at the rally in Ballarat on Friday night

Ms Young's family are seen at the rally. She was killed in a suspected murder suicide

The rally honoured the lives of Ms McGuire, Ms Young and Ms Murphy

Ms Murphy, 51, vanished from her home in Ballarat East while going for a run on February 4.

Partick Orren Stephenson, 22, has been charged with Ms Murphy's murder. Searches for her body resumed this week but proved unsuccessful.

Ms McGuire, 23, was allegedly murdered by her ex-boyfriend Lachlan Young a week ago.

Ms Young, 42, was found dead inside a property on the edge of Ballarat in February, alongside her partner Ian Butler, who has ties to the Bandidos bikie gang, in a suspected murder suicide.

More than 1000 people rallied in Ballarat after the deaths of three women

About 1,000 Ballarat locals turned out for the march on Friday evening in the regional Victorian city

Many residents had made signs with messages of support

The march came after the deaths of three women in Ballarat in just two months

Many in the march held up signs with the names of the women who'd been killed

One Ballarat local is seen holding a sign with the message 'enough is enough'

Ms McGuire, Ms Young and Ms Murphy are being honoured in Ballarat on Friday night

Ms Young's mother, Trace, made an emotional plea at the rally, saying moving on without her daughter 'seems impossible'.

READ MORE: Father of Hannah McGuire's alleged murderer breaks silence Advertisement

'It might be goodbye Beccy, but your story lives on. Violence against women has to stop,' she said.

Ms Young's little sister Jessica said it was bittersweet standing on stage because it was too late to save her sibling, but there was hope other lives could be saved.

The Young family thanked the crowd for standing up against violence to women and offered their condolences to the Murphy and McGuire families.

'I will always miss my beautiful sister. Fly high Bec. Enough is enough,' Jessica said.

The Enough is Enough - Snap Rally Against Men's Violence in Ballarat was organised by former Greens Senate candidate Sissy Austin.

Ms Austin was attacked by a stranger nearby the national park where Ms Murphy disappeared.

One woman held a vase of flowers at the march in Ballarat on Friday night

Ballarat councillors were also seen at the march along with residents brandishing homemade signs

The Enough is Enough - Snap Rally Against Men's Violence in Ballarat was organised by former Greens Senate candidate Sissy Austin

One resident made a sign to honour the life of Hannah McGuire

'It's time to come together to stand against violence and murder of women in our community,' Ms Austin said

'Women are not feeling safe in our town. Women are living on eggshells, living on edge.'

Councillor Belinda Coates said the motivating factor for the rally was the loss of Ms Young, Ms Murphy and Ms McGuire.

'Their lives matter. All lives matter,' Ms Coates told the rally.

'Everyone here has been impacted by gender based violence. We see you, we hear you and we believe you.

'We're here with a good dose of rage. A lot of anger.'

Ms Coates said the crowd could channel love and rage into change.

'There are people watching Ballarat ... this is a Ballarat issue, this is a national issue, this is a global issue,' she said.

Rebecca Young died on February 16 at a home in Sebastopol near Ballarat

Samantha Murphy was last seen February 4, leaving her husband and three children devastated

The 1,000-strong rally are seen marching through Ballarat on Friday

The march began at the Ballarat train station on Friday afternoon

Ms Murphy, Ms Young and Ms McGuire 'should still be with us here today', Ms Austin added.

'It is not normal for our beautiful bushlands to become known for a place where mens violence is perpetrated on our bodies,' she said.

'Men's violence needs to be called out. We also need men to stand with us in the fight.'

Federal MP for Ballarat, Transport Minister Catherine King, said the violence which happened to the three slain women happened to women in the community every day.

'After so many reports, after so many inquires, after so many deaths ... every space should be and must be safe wherever we are,' Ms King said.

'Let's be frank; men need to change,' Ms King said to cheers and applause.

The Hamilton family joined the rally holding signs with the dead women's names, and a placard reading 'men of quality do not fear equality'.

Grace Hamilton, 19, said she was there to spread the message that women should not have to live in fear.

'I shouldn't have to worry about myself when I want to go for a run or when I'm in my home by myself,' she said.

A rally was held in the Victorian city of Ballarat on Friday, after the killings of three women in the town in two months

A young woman is seen taking part in the rally in Ballarat

The streets of Ballarat were filled with people marching for an end to violence against women

Members of the community are seen shining their phone torches in solidarity

Ballarat women Grace and Lisa have a family connection: their niece was best friends with Ms McGuire.

Lisa has personally experienced family violence and said the Ballarat community is determined to raise awareness of the issue.

The Ballarat police were doing all they could within the bounds of the law, Lisa said, but family violence perpetrators were not doing the counselling they should.

Meredith Barclay, of Buninyong, went to the rally to show solidarity for women across all sectors of society who have suffered violence.

Ms Barclay has a 23-year-old daughter who no longer wants to walk in the bush since the killings.

'It has impacted people's sense of safety and right to walk alone,' she said.
Royal Mail has accused Border Force of failing to stop thousands of fake stamps that are flooding into Britain from China - leaving victims paying 5 penalties to collect their post.

A senior executive at the postal service questioned why the forgeries were not being intercepted at the border and urged ministers to 'put pressure' on officials to tackle the problem.

Security experts have described the 'industrial scale' influx of fakes as 'economic warfare' with the 'tacit approval' of the Chinese Communist Party, sparking a diplomatic row as China dismissed the claims as 'baseless' and 'absurd'.

It is understood that convincing copies, sold for as little as 4p each, are being purchased by smaller retailers, who are not obliged to buy directly from the Royal Mail and can instead buy them from wholesalers or online.

David Gold, director of external affairs and policy at Royal Mail, insisted yesterday that it was Border Force's responsibility to stop counterfeits entering the country.

China has been accused of flooding the UK with fake stamps with the 'tacit' approval of the Chinese Communist Party. Pictured is President Xi

It is often very hard to tell the difference between real and fake Royal Mail stamps

He told the Telegraph: 'One of the things which is obvious is if these stamps are coming in from abroad, people's obvious question will be 'shouldn't Border Force just be stopping them?'

How to spot a fake stamp The Royal Mail recommends that you check stamps for uneven borders and missing security ovals.

Consumer champion Martyn James also advises watching out for stamps that are cheaper than the market price as official stamps are never discounted.

Do not purchase sheets of stamps that are sold in quantities other than 25, 50 and 100 as these are likely to be fake.

Check the colour and texture of the stamp. 'Fakes look too shiny or too brightly coloured,' said Mr James.

Stuart Chandler, stamp expert at Empire Philatelists, said watermarks can also indicate whether a stamp is legitimate. He said: 'The main part of the stamp should have a 'Royal Mail' watermark which can be seen if you tilt the stamp.' Advertisement

'[I would ask] what the Government is doing to put pressure on law enforcement to stop these items coming into the country in the first place.'

Websites seen by the Mail based in China offer sheets of 50 counterfeit stamps at a time, complete with Royal Mail's new barcode  designed to make the post more secure and efficient  for those willing to commit to a minimum purchase of 20,000.

Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake has said he would work with Royal Mail and retailers to investigate.

He told the Mail: 'It is key to prevent counterfeit stamps entering our supply chain in the UK.

'The Royal Mail must do everything possible to prevent counterfeits entering our circulation and must establish where they are coming from and how they are entering our marketplace.'

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, called for a criminal inquiry, likening the scam to printing money.

Stamps are considered a 'secure print item' in the same way as bank notes  which means it is a crime to knowingly reuse or sell used or fake ones.

He said: 'Criminal law is very clear about this and I don't understand why the police are not cracking down. These people are counterfeiters.'

Alan Mendoza, of the Henry Jackson Society national security think-tank, accused China of 'robbing British businesses of revenue'.

Royal Mail has been urged to investigate what has been termed 'economic warfare'

Lib Dem treasury spokesman Sarah Olney called on the Chinese government to face questions from ministers and urged the Foreign Office to arrange a meeting with the Chinese ambassador.

Stamps bought from the Post Office are not affected because it receives all of its stamps direct from the Royal Mail's secure printers in Wolverhampton. They are transported to branches in secure vans or via tamper-proof envelopes.

It is claimed four major Chinese suppliers are printing up to one million counterfeit stamps a week and delivering them to Britain in days.

One large factory is only taking orders for more than 300,000, cutting the cost to 4p a fake.

They are then being sold through scam websites imitating the Royal Mail's online store and via marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay.

Both Amazon and eBay insisted last night that they strictly prohibit counterfeit items on their websites.

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'We do not tolerate the sale of illegal products and Border Force will take concerted action to stop them crossing our borders by detecting and seizing harmful goods and supporting law enforcement to dismantle the criminal gangs that attempt to smuggle them in.

'Border Force work closely with law enforcement partners to share intelligence and have a strong track record in targeting illicit commodities, and we continue to ensure all goods brought into the UK by passengers are appropriately declared and abide by customs and excise rules.'
A man has been shot by police after allegedly charging at an officer with a knife, shortly before the body of another man was found.

A police officer was sent to a home in Kilkivan, 50km west of Gympie in Queensland, at about 3pm after reports of a fight between two men.

When they arrived, a 42-year-old man is alleged to have charged out of the property with a knife.

The police officer shot the man, who has since been taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Another man, 55, was then found dead inside the home, apparently from stab wounds.

The relationship between the two men is unclear.

A man has been shot by police after allegedly charging at an officer with a knife, shortly before the body of another man was found

A police officer was sent to a home in Kilkivan, 50km west of Gympie in Queensland , at about 3pm after reports of a stabbing

'The police officer attempted to negotiate with the offender for a brief period and retreated back behind his police vehicle and then across the road from the incident address,' Acting Superintendent Paul Algie said.

'As a result of this interaction between the police officer and the male person, the police officer fired one shot from his service firearm, struck the male offender, and he went to the ground.'

The officer gave the man first aid before he was airlifted to Sunshine Coast Hospital in a critical condition.

The police officer was not injured.

Ethical Standards Command will investigate the shooting.
U to 100 Tory backbenchers could rebel against plans for a rolling ban on smoking next week after ex-PM Boris Johnson branded the legislation 'nuts'.

MPs will get a free vote on the policy of increasing the minimum age for buying tobacco every year in an effort to phase out smoking, which formed a major part of Rishi Sunak's speech to the Conservative Party Conference last year.

It comes after Mr Johnson attacked the flagship policy of his successor-but-one as he questioned 'some of the things that we are doing... in the name of conservatism'.

Mr Johnson wondered why 'the party of Winston Churchill wants to ban cigars' in an appearance at a Canadian conference.

Ally James Duddridge told the i newspaper: 'Boris is still a thought leader and rock star to association members who would have him back in a flash. His populism and ability to position himself as one of the people, and build electoral coalitions, means when he speaks, MPs listen.'

The law, which returns to the Commons on Tuesday, is still likely to pass with support from opposition parties, but a sizeable rebellion would further undermine Mr Sunak's position ahead of a general election later this year.

MPs will get a free vote on the policy of increasing the minimum age for buying tobacco every year in an effort to phase out smoking, which formed a major part of Rishi Sunak's speech to the Conservative Party Conference last year.

Mr Johnson wondered why 'the party of Winston Churchill wants to ban cigars' in an appearance at a Canadian conference.

Mr Sunak has proposed preventing anyone who is turning 15 this year, or younger, from ever being able to legally buy tobacco products.

His plans are expected to be the subject of a free vote when MPs debate the legislation in the House of Commons for the first time next week.

The law is backed by a high proportion of the population, with a recent poll showing that almost three-quarters of Tory voters (71 per cent) support it.

But the PM is facing a backlash from the libertarian wing of his party, including from his predecessor Liz Truss.

She has branded Mr Sunak's bid to effectively ban young people from smoking as 'profoundly unconservative'.

Mr Johnson on Wednesday evening joined the Tory anger at Mr Sunak's proposals as he criticised policies that were being carried out 'in the name of conservatism'.

'We are, on the whole, in favour of freedom and it is that single Anglo-Saxon idea of freedom that I think unites conservatives, or should unite conservatives,' he said.

'And when I look at some of the things that we are doing now, or that are being done in the name of conservatism, I think they are absolutely nuts.'

Mr Johnson added: 'When the party of Winston Churchill wants to ban cigars, donnez-moi un break as they say in Quebec, it's just mad.'

Although Mr Sunak is facing a Tory rebellion against his smoking ban, he is set to win the support of Labour MPs and so his plans are unlikely to be derailed.

A similar law had been due to come into effect in New Zealand in July, but was repealed by the country's new coalition government in February.
This is the shocking moment a nun wheels the dead body of a fellow sister crammed into a suitcase, sparking a murder investigation which ended with a tragic revelation.

Footage shows the nun, 80, walking along a smart residential street as she struggled to pull the huge suitcase behind her.

Dressed in the blue and black robes of her religious order, the woman, who has not been named, walked past a home where she was recorded on their security system.

Local reports in Chile say that a horrified passerby later found the body of the second nun, aged 58, in the case on April 8 and called police.

The CCTV video emerged after police began a full-scale murder hunt over what they first believed was a drugs cartel killing in Santiago.

A nun carries a suitcase in Nunoa, Chile, on Monday, April 8, 2024. It is alleged that the suitcase contained the remains of another nun

CCTV caught the nun wheeling away the suitcase, which was wrapped in cellophane

Dressed in the blue and black robes of her religious order, she walked quickly past a home where she was recorded on their security system

Investigators at first believed the body to have come from a gangland execution.

And only after trawling local CCTV for evidence did police discover that it had been abandoned by a nun.

It later emerged that the case had contained the corpse of a fellow 58-year-old nun who had apparently died of natural causes a year ago.

Her fellow sister told police that the pair had made a pact to take care of each other beyond death.

Deputy Governor Juan Fonseca said the dead nun had been kept in a case as an act of 'affection and loyalty'.

The situation only changed when the 80-year-old nun's daughter visited and decided the woman should be laid to rest, investigators concluded.

An autopsy showed no signs of deliberate killing, police said.

Local media reports that the 80-year-old nun was not arrested but could be charged with violations of the health code.

It later emerged that both women did not belong to a formal religious order but were 'consecrated laywomen' who lived a cloistered life in habits and robes.

A police investigation is ongoing.
MailOnline has been told that Mark Draycott, the officer dealing with key witness Helge Busching, will be summoned to testify

British police officers involved in the hunt for Madeleine McCann will be asked to testify to the ongoing trial of prime suspect Christian Brueckner, MailOnline can exclusively reveal.

The sensational development means for the first time detectives from Scotland Yard who have been investigating the 2007 disappearance of then three-year-old Madeleine will have to disclose under oath what they know.

MailOnline has been told that the officer dealing with key witness Helge Busching, Detective Constable Mark Draycott, will be summoned to give testimony at Brueckner's current trial for unrelated sex crimes.

Mr Draycott was the Scotland Yard officer who took Busching's statement in 2017 in a hotel room in the Greek capital of Athens where he told police of his fears that Brueckner was involved in Madeleine's disappearance.

At the time Busching, 50, had just been released from a people smuggling conviction and according to Greek media reports he contacted Operation Grange to tip them off about his suspicions.

British police officers involved in the hunt for Madeleine McCann will be asked to testify to the ongoing trial of prime suspect Christian Brueckner (pictured in court earlier this week), MailOnline can exclusively reveal

Madeleine McCann (pictured) went missing on May 3, 2007 at the age of just three. She has never been found. Criminal Christian Brueckner has been named by German prosecutors as their chief suspect in her disappearance

It was in this statement that he told Operation Grange that Brueckner, 47, said to him at a hippy festival in Orgiva, Spain, that Madeleine 'didn't scream' when she was taken from the holiday apartment where she was staying.

Officers from Operation Grange contacted counterparts in Germany and Brueckner's background convictions for rape and paedophile emerged and as a result he became the prime suspect.

In 2011 under the then Home Secretary, Theresa May, Scotland Yard was asked to take over the investigation following a request from her boss PM David Cameron and Operation Grange was set up.

Since then they have been given more than 13 million and last month MailOnline revealed they had applied for a further grant of 100,000 which was expected to be given the green light.

Sources close to Brueckner's defence team have told MailOnline they have seen inconsistencies in what Busching told British police and what he told the court when he testified earlier this month.

They also want to know why Busching claims to be 'under police protection' when there is apparently no threat to him that they are aware of.

A source close to the legal team said: 'We will be calling the British police from Operation Grange to give evidence  especially those officers that talked to Mr Helge Busching.

'We want to know what he told them exactly and why what he told the court was different. This will be the first time that the court will have a chance to see what exactly is known about Brueckner.

'We have been asking for files on the case for years but have seen nothing so let's see what they have, they will have to come to court and talk under oath about what they know.'

The development comes after it was also revealed that a former British detective, Dave Edgar, who was hired by Kate and Gerry McCann from 2008 to 2011 when Scotland Yard took over, will also be questioned as part of Brueckner's defence.

Busching claimed that he had called Mr Edgar in 2008 and tipped him off about Brueckner but he has no recollection of taking the call and told MailOnline that if he had 'known the details he would have acted'.

In his evidence Busching told the court he had seen videos of Brueckner raping two women  one elderly and one younger  but they have never been recovered and defence lawyers doubt they exist.

He claimed he found the footage in 2006 and the following year Madeleine vanished from the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz and her parents from Rothley, Leicestershire, have since led a worldwide campaign to find her.

Pictured: The holiday complex where the McCanns were staying in Portugal's Algarve region in May 2007, when their three-year-old daughter vanished without a trace

On November 18 last year, prosecutors confirmed Brueckner would stand trial for various charges of sexual abuse against women aged between 10 and 80

It has since emerged that Busching is suffering from intestinal cancer and his prognosis by one witness was described as 'bad' meaning he may not live to give evidence at any future trial.

Brueckner is currently serving seven years for the rape of a elderly American woman on the Algarve and was jailed in 2019.

He is currently on trial for a string of sex attacks against women and children in the same area between 2000 and 2017 in Braunschweig, Germany, where he used to live.

MailOnline has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment but none had been supplied by late Friday afternoon.
Angela Rayner is facing fresh pressure to explain the sale of her former council home today as police reopened an investigation into whether she broke the law.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed it was looking into claims that the Labour deputy leader may have broken electoral law by registering at the wrong address more than a decade ago.

Questions have also been raised over whether she mispaid capital gains tax over the 2015 sale of a property in Manchester.

Police re-examined a decision not to investigate after a complaint by Tory Bury MP and deputy chairman James Daly.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: 'We're investigating whether any offences have been committed. This follows a reassessment of the information provided to us by Mr Daly.'

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps accused Ms Rayner of 'double standards' because in January 2022 she called for Boris Johnson to quit as prime minister amid a police investigation into whether he had breached lockdown rules.

He told reporters: 'Angela Rayner herself has spent her political career calling people out for exactly the thing she seems to be doing now.

'It's not acceptable to ignore it and it's not acceptable for Keir Starmer to say he won't even read reports into it.

'This is something which is a serious matter, it's important that it's looked into properly and I welcome the idea that the police are doing that.'

But Labour said it remains confident that Ms Rayner has complied with the rules, and the deputy leader 'welcomes the chance to set out the facts with the police'.

The police investigation into Angela Rayner's council house sale will allow a 'line to be drawn' on the issue, leader Sir Keir Starmer said.

In a stony-faced interview with broadcasters he said: 'I am fully confident that Angela Rayner has not broken the rules. She will cooperate with the investigation as you would expect and it is really a matter for the police.'

And former party leader Ed Miliband said she was an inspiration and 'exactly the kind of person we need in politics'.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed it was looking into claims that the Labour deputy leader may have mispaid capital gains tax over the 2015 sale of a property in Manchester.

On Wednesday Ms Rayner was targeted by a Tory-sponsored 'tax dodger' protest as she broke cover on the election campaign trail in the North East

Ms Rayner has denied wrongdoing. But she has refused to publish tax advice which she claims exonerates her  and has not shown it directly to Sir Keir Starmer (pictured today), he has admitted.

Former party leader Ed Miliband said she was an inspiration and 'exactly the kind of person we need in politics', at an event alongside London mayor Sadiq Khan today.

The shadow energy minister told PA: 'We are absolutely 100 per cent behind Angela. We are absolutely confident that she has complied with the rules. She welcomes the fact she can set out the facts.'

He added: 'My message to the country is we are incredibly proud of Angela Rayner, our deputy leader.

'She is an inspiring person, she is exactly the kind of person we need in politics.

'If a Labour government is elected, I look forward to Angela Rayner serving as deputy prime minister. Frankly the Conservative party is a desperate party that has nothing to say to the country about the big issues that it faces. '

London Mayor Sadiq Khan added: 'I'm fully confident in Angela, she's one of my best friends and I'm sure she'll be cleared.'

Angela Rayner posted this picture on Twitter in 2014 (left) and on the right is the estate agent photograph showing the same cushion

The same sofa can be seen in estate agents' pictures when the Lowndes Lane house in Stockport was put up for sale the following year

The address on Lowndes Lane - around a mile from Ms Rayner's property on Vicarage Road, which she insisted was her home

Ms Rayner has denied wrongdoing. But she has refused to publish tax advice which she claims exonerates her  and has not shown it directly to Sir Keir Starmer, he has admitted.

Before becoming an MP, Ms Rayner used Margaret Thatcher's Right to Buy scheme to purchase her former council home in Vicarage Road, Stockport, in January 2007.

She married Mark Rayner in September 2010 and the couple re-registered the births of their two sons that year, providing Mr Rayner's address in nearby Lowndes Lane.

But Ms Rayner remained on the electoral roll at Vicarage Road until 2015, when she sold the house at a profit of 48,500.

Knowingly providing false information on an electoral registration form is an offence, which can carry a six-month prison sentence or an unlimited fine.

A married couple can also normally have only one main residence, with capital gains tax due on the sale of a second home.

Mr Daly had responded to the force's initial conclusion after an 'investigative review' lasting just seven working days that 'there wasn't a case to answer' by raising concerns that his complaint was 'not handled properly'.

He asked the force to take another look to maintain 'public confidence'.

The Mail on Sunday has studied dozens of postings made by Ms Rayner on social media during the period in question showing her life with her children and cats at her husband's address

In response, Det Chief Insp Cheryl Hughes wrote back to say she has been 'requested to review the circumstances you have outlined to reassess our decision around an investigation.'

However questions were raised about the 'reassessment' of the allegation against the Ashton-under-Lyne MP after Mail Online last week ((((LINK)))) revealed that police hadn't spoken to neighbours who have repeatedly contradicted her version of events.

An 83-year-old who lived next-door to Mr Rayner's house a mile away told the Mail on Sunday that the Labour frontbencher was 'a f***ing liar' if she was saying she hadn't lived there.

The claims first emerged in Red Queen? The Unauthorised Biography of Angela Rayner by Lord Ashcroft, serialised in the Mail.

Under electoral rules, voters are expected to register at their permanent home address.

Ms Rayner insists she lived in the semi-detached former council house in Vicarage Road - paying council tax and bills - until weeks before her election as MP for Ashton-under-Lyne in May 2015, and never rented it out.

The mother-of-three and her then husband  they have since separated  both 'maintained' their own homes until setting up a joint marital home after she was elected to Parliament, she says.

Sources said she had 'never denied' that she also 'spent time' at her husband's terraced house in Lowndes Lane following their marriage.

After Mr Daly's second complaint, a spokesman for Ms Rayner said: 'Gossip and hearsay does not change the fact that Angela Rayner maintained her own home while sharing childcare responsibilities with her husband at his property.'

Ms Rayner was approached for comment on the police investigation.
Sheila Jackson Lee at her victory party as Democratic candidate for Texas' 18th Congressional District, March 8, 1994. Paul S. Howell/Houston Chronicle Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton greets Sheila Jackson Lee during a campaign event on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer City Councilwoman Sheila Jackson Lee speaks to reporters during a demonstration outside the Federal building, August 26, 1994. Lee and others were protesting a recent ruling by a panel of three federal judges that some of Texas' congressional districts were unconstitutional, the decision was based on "racial gerrymandering." Jerry Click/Houston Chronicle U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee addresses marchers on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at City Hall in downtown Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee makes her way on stage during her official kick-off party for her mayoral run at Post Houston on Friday, April 14, 2023. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, right, followed by staff assistant Jennifer Park, walks on Capitol Hill Monday, Oct. 12, 1998 to a news conference to discuss the hate crime legislation. Jackson Lee said the attack against Matthew Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student who died early Monday, calls for immediate action of hate crime legislation. KHUE BUI/AP Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, makes a point with Sen. Russ Feingold, D-Wis., left, and and Sen. Paul Wellstone, D-Minn., right, at the news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday June 22, 2000, regarding the pending execution in Texas of convicted murderer Gary Graham. The state board of pardons refused Thursday to stop the scheduled execution of Graham hours before he was to be put to death in a case that focused national attention on capital punishment. His lawyers immediately turned to the Supreme Court. HILLERY SMITH GARRISON/AP House Judiciary Committee members Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, left, and Rep. Steven Rothman, D-N.J. leave the House Studio on Capitol Hill Thursday Oct. 8, 1998 after a news conference to talk about the House vote to an open-ended impeachment inquiry against President Clinton. Thirty-one Democrats joined majority Republicans in increasing the peril for an embattled President Clinton. KHUE BUI/AP House Judiciary Committee member Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas gestures while returning to the House Chamber on Capitol Hill Saturday Dec. 19, 1998 after she and fellow House Democrats walked out of the chamber in protest when Republicans blocked their effort to force a vote on the lesser penalty of censure as an alternative to impeachment. The House later approved two of the four articles of impeachment lodged against President Clinton. J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE/AP City Councilwoman Gracie Saenz, center left, joined hundreds of Sheila Jackson Lee's family, friends and campaign workers celebrating Lee's victory over Craig Washington in the Democratic primary for the 18th Congressional District on Tuesday, March 8, 1994. Mary Urech Stallings/Houston Chronicle From left, council members Sheila Jackson Lee, Gracie Saenz, Mayor Bob Lanier and council member Vince Ryan at unveiling of new street name/sign. George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, Texas. John Everett/Houston Chronicle Sheila Jackson Lee speaks to family, friends and campaign workers celebrating her victory over Craig Washington in the Democratic primary for the 18th Congressional District on Tuesday, March 8, 1994. Mary Urech Stallings/Houston Chronicle Sen. Ted Kennedy, D-Mass., receives a hug from Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas. Thursday Aug.5,1999 in Washington. Kennedy and Jackson Lee attended the Democrat Unity Rally against the GOP tax cut. JOE MARQUETTE/AP Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, talks about the impeachment proceedings in the House Judiciary Committee as the committee debates the fourth article of impeachment against President Clinton, Saturday, Dec. 12, 1998 on Capitol Hill. Committee Chairman Rep. Henry Hyde, R-Ill., looks on in the background. JOE MARQUETTE/AP Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, reaches back to hold her husband, Elwyn Lees, hand, as she speaks to her supporters during her election night watch party on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 in Houston. Jackson Lee is facing Amanda Edwards in the race for re-election for 18th congressional district seat. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer On Friday, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee along with State Rep. Ron Reynolds discussed the ruling in the Barbers Hill Independent School District hearing against one of its students, 18-year-old Darryl George during a press conference. Abby Church Houston Police Chief Troy Finner, left, speaks as he puts his arm around U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee before the annual MLK Parade through downtown Houston, Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024. (Jason Fochtman/Houston Chronicle) Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who died July 19, 2024, began her career in public service after graduating college. Jackson Lee served her Houston area constituents for decades.

From her start as a municipal judge to her recent bid for mayor, here's more about the congresswoman from Houston.

SEWING: Seeing the side of Sheila Jackson Lee few saw on the campaign trail

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Who was Sheila Jackson Lee?

A native of Queens, New York, Jackson Lee graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with honors. She went on to earn a juris doctorate degree from the University of Virginia Law School. She married Elwyn Lee and they had two children, Jason and Erica Lee.

Jackson Lee served as the U.S. Representative of the 18th District from 1995 until her death in 2024.

What district did Sheila Jackson Lee represent?

The 18th District of Texas includes areas of Houston and some neighboring communities, such as parts of the Cy-Fair and Humble areas.

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How long did Sheila Jackson Lee serve?

Jackson Lee, a Democrat, served in Congress for almost three decades. She initially ran for office in 1994 and won the seat.

What have some of Sheila Jackson Lees legislative efforts been while in office?

Throughout her tenure as congresswoman, Jackson Lee served on various committees and led the way on multiple initiatives including the George Floyd Law Trust and Integrity Act following the death of Floyd that sparked protests nationwide. She also worked on the Sentencing Reform Act, the RAISE Act, the Fair Chance for Youth Act, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, Kaleif's Law and the American RISING Act.

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Jackson Lee said her colleagues dubbed her the "voice of reason" as she worked for racial equality and justice.

Did Sheila Jackson Lee run for mayor of Houston?

John Whitmire defeated Jackson Lee in a landslide to replace Mayor Sylvester Turner as mayor of Houston. Whitmire won 64.4% to 35.6%.

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She ran a campaign dedicated on being an aggressive problem solver focused on city services.

What was the controversy over the leaked Sheila Jackson Lee audio?

During the mayoral race in October, an audio recording of what some said sounded like Jackson Lee surfaced on social media. The recording of her allegedly berating a staffer, using a string of expletives, led her to issue an apology. In the recording, listeners could hear a woman calling staff members two g--d--- big-a-- children and idiots, among other offensive names.

Jackson Lee said, to anyone who has listened to this recording with concern, I am regretful and hope you will judge me not by something trotted out by a political opponent.

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I know that I am not perfect, Jackson Lee said. I recognize that in my zeal to do everything possible to deliver for my constituents I have in the past fallen short of my own standards and there is no excuse for that.

RECORDING PROMPTS QUESTION: Are women held to higher standards?

How old was Sheila Jackson Lee?

Jackson Lee, 74, began her career as a municipal judge in Houston in 1987.

She made a run for politics back in 1994 vying for U.S. Representative of the 18th District of Texas. She won the seat and began serving her constituents in 1995.

Did Sheila Jackson Lee really say the moon is made up of gasses?

On April 9, a video circulating on X, formerly Twitter, showed Jackson Lee talking about the moon and sun. In the clip, viewers can hear her say "sometimes, you've heard the word full moon. Sometimes, you need to take the opportunity to just come out and see a full moon  it's that complete rounded circle which is made up mostly of gases." She went on to say "that's why the question is why or how could we as humans live on the moon  the gas is such that we could do that."

She responded by saying: "Obviously, I misspoke and meant to say the sun, but as usual, Republicans are focused on stupid things instead of stuff that really matters," Lee wrote on X. "What can I say though, foolish thinkers lust for stupidity."

Was Sheila Jackson Lee battling cancer?

Just after 9 p.m. on June 2, 2024, Jackson Lee released a statement on X announcing her cancer diagnosis.

In her statement, Jackson Lee said her doctors confirmed a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. She also revealed her doctors had developed the "best possible plan to target the disease." Jackson Lee mentioned as she underwent cancer treatment, she would occasionally miss time in Congress.

"I am committed to working with our Congressional Leadership including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical to the prosperity and security of the American people," Jackson Lee said in a statement, at the time. "By God's grace, I will be back at full strength soon."

When did Sheila Jackson Lee die?

Jackson Lee died on July 19, 2024, nearly two months after announcing her cancer diagnosis.
This is the shocking moment an Oakland jewelry store shop owner was forced to cower in terror as a gang of armed robbers ransacked her stock before her brave husband scared them away with a gun.

The eight hammer-wielding robbers smashed through Phuong Jewelry in Oakland's Chinatown on Wednesday, in what is being called the worst robbery the family-owned business has faced in over four decades.

Footage shared with ABC7 News of the break-in shows store owner and mother Diane, 69, desperately ducking for shelter as the robbers, clad in black, begin crashing through the small store.

In just seconds of entering, the masked group raised their weapons and started smashing down on the glass counters as Diane and another woman cowered behind the displays.

The armed suspects continued to ransack the stock as the terrified women screamed for help and bravely attempted to grab what they could from the top of the destroyed cabinets.

8 armed suspects ransacked the legacy Oakland Chinatown business Phuong Jewelry yesterday at around 12:30.



The family tells me, in less than one minute 85-90% of their inventory was taken.



Watch as owner Diane runs to the back & gets her 76-year old husband. He storms out pic.twitter.com/JSmFDL960j  Dion Lim (@DionLimTV) April 12, 2024

The eight hammer-wielding robbers smashed through Phuong Jewelry in Oakland's Chinatown on Wednesday, as shop-owner Diane cowered behind the glass cabinet

Diane and another woman crouch and run to exit the room as the robbers continue their ransacking of the store

Her husband, 76, can be seen in footage emerging from a doorway at the end of the store which scares the robbers away

With bags in hand, the robbers can be seen quickly piling jewelry into them while continuing their rampage through the store.

Diane begins to wave her hands as she calls for urgent help, before the two women make the heart-stopping decision to make a run for the closest exit.

Crouching, they run down the long space behind the now-smashed counter but the robbers are too occupied with stuffing their sacks with gems and jewels to notice or stop them.

They continue beating their hammers into the glass and reaching into the cabinet with gloved hands while Diane peers around the corner of the doorway as she watches her family-store be torn to shreds.

Then out of nowhere the group begin to scatter and head towards the door, as a man in red emerges from the doorway with a firearm in hand.

Diane's heroic husband, 76, storms out through the store as the criminals make their dash out of the shop.

Speaking to the news site, the shaken-up store owner's son, Tony Trinh, said the shop had been robbed before, but never to this magnitude.

READ HERE: Shocking moment mob of gunmen attack security guard and rob truck full of tobacco and cigarettes in crime-ridden Oakland Advertisement

'I thought, did my mother get shot? Did my father get shot? Did any of our staff of community members?' he said.

According to reports, around 85 to 95 per cent of the stock was nabbed in the heist, and Diane's American Dream came crashing down all in under one minute.

Tony said his mom was 'devastated' and his dad 'broken' following the ordeal.

But the horror incident hasn't dampened Diane's working spirit as her son revealed she would be back on the shop floor today.

We can't let our fear overcome! The only way to reduce crime is to have more traffic, events, people to get more resources. A strong Oakland Chinatown is strong for every community in Oakland,' said Tony.

The local community and the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council have pulled together to set up a GoFundMe to help the family make up for the massive loss they incurred following the robbery.

Oakland Police informed the news site that they are currently investigating the case, and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Oakland is suffering a worrying surge in crime as the area has been more frequently plagued with robberies.

As a result of the relentless criminal activity, several popular restaurants have had to close their dining room doors as staff worry for their safety.

Earlier this week, DailyMail.com revealed that Taco Bell locations in Oakland were forced into becoming drive-thru only amid a concerning series of robberies.

Four of five locations across the Bay Area city now display large signs from their windows that read: 'DINING ROOM CLOSED'.

Sources said that the owner of one local franchise has even threatened to close outright if the security situation doesn't improve.

In late January a nearby Denny's fast food diner closed due to the violence and in February it was announced that Oakland's only In-N-Out Burger restaurant is set to shut after 18 years, with the business stating that customers and staff are now 'unsafe'.

Amid the rising levels of violence in Oakland, popular restaurants have been forced to close their dining rooms as customers an staff are now 'unsafe'

An Oakland police source called Taco Bell's recent struggles a reflection of the 'very sorry state our city is in.'

'When it comes to robberies, in particular, this is the worst we've seen it here in many, many years,' the source told DailyMail.com.

'It's sad that it's gotten to the point that clientele of Taco Bell can't even enjoy dining inside because of the crime.

'We're in the midst of a doom loop for businesses in Oakland as crime continues to spiral,' the source continued.

'There are not enough cops, and there's no real support for law enforcement in Oakland. The elected officials, in general, don't have an interest in public safety.

'They're more sympathetic to criminals than to the businesses or residents of Oakland.

Data from Oakland's police force reveal that robberies increased by a massive 38% from 2022 to 2023.
One of Italy's most well-known bridges that has survived allied bombs, devastating floods and 700 years of visitors is set for a makeover.

With the Arno river flowing below, the Ponte Vecchio in Florence is a medieval crossing famed for its stunning arches and the shops - today mostly occupied by jewellers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers - built along its top.

It was the only bridge in Florence that was spared destruction during the Second World War, and is built on the site of an even more ancient Roman bridge.

Thousands walk over the 100-foot bridge every day, with the millions of tourists who flock to Florence regularly stopping to take selfies.

It is little surprise then that the ancient river crossing is in need of some tender loving care, which will be carried out without the city closing the bridge.

Ponte Vecchio - one of Italy 's most well-known bridges that has survived allied bombs, devastating floods and 700 years of visitors - is set for a makeover

In a 2 million project starting this autumn and lasting until 2026, its arches, paving stones, parapets and wing walls will be restored to their original grandeur.

Ponte Vecchio's cracks will be filled in, moss and weeds will be removed, and its grout will be replaced, according to The Times.

Two roman bridges in the same spot - which crosses the Arno at its narrowest point in Florence - were swept away by floods.

The structure as it is known today was completed in 1345, with its shops first occupied by butchers, tanners, and farmers.

Such merchants were dismissed in 1565 by Cosimo I de' Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany at the time, in favour of jewellers and goldsmiths.

Along with the domed roof of Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the bridge is one of Florence's most famous icons, admired by writers and artists over hundreds of years.

DH Lawrence set his 1923 poem 'Bat' on Ponte Vecchio, and Italian composer Giacomo Puccini featured the structure in his opera Gianni Schicchi.

Composed between 1917 and 1918, the comic opera sees damsel Lauretta threaten to jump from the crossing into the river Arno below.

In a 2 million project starting this autumn and lasting until 2026, Ponte Vecchio's arches, paving stones, parapets and wing walls will be restored to their original grandeur

Pictured: A colourised picture of damage around the Ponte Vecchio bridge on the River Arno, in Florence, Italy during the Second World War

Damaged shops on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence after the Arno river burst its banks in 1966

During the Second World War, Ponte Vecchio was the only of Florence's bridges not to be blown up by the Nazis, and was spared falling allied bombs. Hitler is believed to have demanded the architectural icon be spared, according to some historians.

It also survived the 1966 flood of the Arno, although it was severely damaged.

The expected completion date of 2026 will mark 60 years since the floods.

The makeover of the bridge will be carried out without the need to close it, allowing shopkeepers to continue their work and tourists to flow, Florence's mayor Dario Nardella told The Times on Friday.

Much of the work will be carried out from a pontoon positioned below the Ponte Vecchio during spring and summer, when the Arno's waters are more calm.

The work will be part funded by the city's council, with aristocratic Florentine winemaking family Marchesi Antinori also agreeing to sponsor the renovation.

'Our family history has always been inextricably linked to Florence since the 13th century,' Piero Antinori, honorary president of Marchesi Antinori, told The Florentine.

'The city has given us so much over the centuries, which is why it is a pleasure for us to be able to be part of this important project.'

Much of the work will be carried out from a pontoon positioned below the Ponte Vecchio during spring and summer, when the Arno's waters are more calm

'For the first time in its long history, the Ponte Vecchio will undergo a complex restoration operation,' mayor Nardella added.

'The bridge doesn't have any stability issues (it's secure and anchored), but it does suffer from the usual problems linked with being outdoors, open to the elements and the ebbs and flows of the river,' he explained.

'This is a historic project because the Ponte Vecchio has never undergone a restoration with this level of technical complexity.

'When it's finished, we will have an even more beautiful bridge than before.'
An American woman reported to have died after 'extreme sex' with her common-law husband was strangled, it emerged today.

Jose Betancourt, 50, is alleging Bianca Pitman's death was an accident that occurred while the couple were playing a hardcore game simulating a rape.

But the construction boss, who is also American, has been remanded in prison and an investigating judge specializing in gender violence has taken over the case which has now been upgraded from a manslaughter to a homicide probe.

Art teacher mum-of-two Bianca, 43, reportedly left the couple's home in San Antonio, Texas, in November to move away from her partner.

She is said to have started a new life in the town of Xativa near Valencia on the Costa Blanca.

The couple had been staying together at a tourist apartment in Malaga on the Costa del Sol where Bianca's body was found in the early hours of Saturday morning after Betancourt travelled to Spain for a few days' vacation.

Bianca Pitman, 43, secretly vanished from her home in San Antonio, Texas, in November allegedly to escape from her husband Jose Betancourt, DailyMail.com revealed earlier this week

Betancourt, 50, is languishing in prison in Spain after a judge on Monday ruled he should be detained without bail

Pitman's body was found in an apartment in Malaga, Spain, with cops initially believing 'extreme sex' had led to her death

He is said to have left the apartment to ask for help around 5.30am on April 6 after his partner lost consciousness and became unresponsive.

He told the first responders they had been drinking alcohol including shots in the hours leading up to Pitman's death and claimed she had also consumed drugs before they started engaging in an 'extreme sex' game.

Although the death was initially treated as manslaughter, it was upgraded to homicide and Betancourt sent to Alhaurin de la Torre prison near Malaga following a court appearance after the autopsy showed the victim had been strangled.

The investigating judge is now trying to establish whether Bianca was strangled by accident during the sex game her partner claims they were engaging in, or if he invented the extreme role-playing as a cover-up.

A friend of the dead woman has now launched a GoFundMe appeal to support her family.

Organizer Grace Teeters said in the appeal: 'With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the devastating news of the loss of Bianca Pitman, 43, a beloved mother, dedicated teacher, animal lover, and passionate traveler and artist.

'Bianca's life was tragically cut short on April 6, 2024, in Spain, where she had been teaching English since November.

'Her unexpected passing has left an unimaginable void not only in the lives of her family but also in the hearts of all who knew her.

'Bianca was not just a teacher, she was a beacon of light in her community, inspiring countless students with her enthusiasm and love of art.

'Her spirit of wanderlust was infectious and she always sought to share her adventures and stories with those around her, especially on Snapchat.

Pitman shown with her family on a GoFundMe page that has been set up

Pitman worked at San Antonio's MacArthur High School as an art teacher where she gave a Q&A interview to its online newspaper when she joined

'She loved to spend quality time with her loved ones, and she loved to try new things.

'However, the unimaginable has happened.

'Bianca leaves behind daughter Promise, 22, and son Gavin, 20, as well as their older brother Graham, 25, who all now face the daunting task of navigating life without their cherished mother.

'Adding to the complexity of this heartbreaking situation, their father is currently in Spain facing charges related to her passing.

'The circumstances surrounding this devastation are still under investigation. With both parents suddenly absent from their lives, the family is left in dire need of support during this turbulent time.

'As we come together to honour Bianca's memory, we are humbly asking for your help.

'The costs associated with memorializing Bianca, including the expenses of cremation and transporting her remains and personal effects home, travel costs, legal fees, and countless unforeseen costs, are significant and overwhelming for her grieving family.'

'Our goal is to alleviate some of the financial burden weighing heavily on Bianca's loved ones, especially her young adult children, two of whom are college students, as they navigate this loss.

'Your generosity will allow Bianca's family to focus on their grief as well as serve as a testament to the charity and love Bianca inspired in others.

'Please consider donating if you can, as any amount truly helps. You can also help Bianca's family through this difficult time by sharing this with your loved ones and anyone else who knew her. Your kindness, compassion, and generosity will serve as a beacon of hope in this time of darkness.'

Bianca had posted in late March showing that she was in Valencia, Spain

Pitman spoke warmly of her family, saying: I like spending time with my kids, going to see movies, reading books and playing with animals 'I really like helping my daughter with her speech and debate stuff. I always love making art, that's a given'

The dead woman's friend Valerie Dullnig, said earlier this week of Bianca's decision to leave her husband in the States: 'I was with her the day she left. She could not share it with many people.'

She told DailyMail.com, claiming Jose was 'blindsided' by the decision: ''She and Jose were not married but as they were together so long, they had a common law marriage.

'I'd been in touch with her. She had to get a new phone that she didn't share with many people.'

She added: 'I don't know how Jose found out where she was or why they met up. But he has a lot of manipulative tactics.'

Bianca had been staying with her common-law husband at a luxury apartment complex in the heart of Malaga's old town called The Clock House.

Friends have said they were not aware she had agreed to meet up with Betancourt in Malaga.

A court official said on Monday: 'Malaga's court of Investigation Number Nine, acting as a duty court, has this afternoon decreed the remand in custody or the man arrested over the death of his common-law wife.

'He is an American citizen who in principle is being investigated on suspicion of a charge of homicide.

'The duty court is going to refer the case to a court specializing in violence against women, which is the court that will now take over this investigation.'

Betancourt is officially now an 'investigado' under Spanish law, which literally means he is a person who is under investigation.

Formal charges are only laid in Spain shortly before trial.

The ongoing criminal probe will be conducted in private and is expected to last several months although it could go on for years.

Only trials in Spain take place in public. Remand prisoners can be held behind bars for up to four years in the most extreme cases, although the normal time limit is two years and most are released on bail before the two years are up although they normally have to agree to strict conditional release conditions which include a travel ban and regular signing-on at court.
Exhausted after a long week at work, Billie Dee would return to her London flat on a Friday evening, kick off her shoes and try to relax. Stressed and unhappy  having recently split from her long-term boyfriend  the then 26-year-old could no longer afford to go out with friends.

The drinking and partying that she had turned to in the past to ease any pain were far beyond her reach. Instead, the young woman turned to the cheapest way she knew to unwind  nitrous oxide gas, or 'nos', in balloons.

'I couldn't afford the rent on my own and I'd had issues with my job, so the stress was overwhelming,' says Billie, now 33. 'I'd already had problems with drugs in the past, taking MDMA [ecstasy] and cocaine, but I could no longer afford these to escape. But nos is so much cheaper. At the time, I could buy hundreds of canisters for the same price as a really small bag of coke  around 40 for 500 canisters.'

Billie, with her mum, TV presenter Trisha Goddard, says she tried to keep the habit a secret from friends and family

Billie, in another picture with her mum, says: 'I wasn't looking after myself, not eating properly and even forgetting to drink water some days'

Billie, with a balloon at a party, says that as her addiction got worse, she needed more and more to enjoy the same feeling

Nitrous oxide is also known as 'laughing gas', 'balloons' and 'hippy crack' and is often purchased in little silver bullet-style canisters, known as 'whippets'  the discarded ones an all too familiar sight in parks and playgrounds across the UK.

The colourless gas has been used as pain relief in medical settings such as dentistry and maternity care for nearly 180 years. But it has become a commonly used recreational drug among young people, its cannisters increasingly littering our streets.

Users seek it out as a 'cheap' way to have a brief, euphoric high, filling party balloons with the gas and then inhaling from them.

But it can easily prove fatal. Just this week, an inquest heard that 24-year-old Ellen Mercer from Buckinghamshire died in February last year from a blood clot caused by her abuse of the drug. The business student had been left bed-bound for two weeks before her death, after a canister of nitrous oxide had leaked on her legs, causing 'deep cold' burns.

The inquest revealed that in the hours before she died, she had urged her concerned boyfriend not to call an ambulance despite searing pain in her legs and back owing to the clot, as it would 'kill her buzz'.

Such was the grip Mercer's addiction had on her that she was ordering up to three huge bottles of the substance per day.

Ellen Mercer, 24, from Buckinghamshire, died in February last year from a blood clot caused by her abuse of the drug

Sharon Cooke (left) pictured with her daughter Ellen, who died after inhaling three bottles of 'hippy crack'

Ellen with her older brother Joe, who is now 27, and younger sister Daisy, now 13

Nitrous oxide is also known as 'laughing gas', 'balloons' and 'hippy crack' and is often purchased in little silver bullet-style canisters, known as 'whippets'  the discarded ones an all too familiar sight in parks and playgrounds across the UK

Billie, too, explains that it was easy for her to get hold of the drug. 'I used to order canisters from Amazon because they were being legally sold for 'catering'.

'But the parcels would often go missing. I suspect the postal workers would steal them as you could hear the canisters clinking around. So, I started ordering them from other websites offering discounts such as '1,000 for the price of 500'.

'These guys would turn up outside my house, open their boots and hand me large boxes of canisters and a pack of balloons as a 'freebie'. It was crazy.'

Billie says that taking her first hits of the drug gave her the high she needed. But as the addiction got worse, she needed more and more to enjoy the same feeling and soon spent entire weekends alone, sucking balloons.

'I'd start hallucinating and having all these amazing 'revelations'. I remember thinking that God was telling me the meaning of life,' she says. 'The highs only lasted for a minute or so and sometimes I'd pass out so when it was over.

'I'd take more and more to feel that high again. It's more addictive than any other drug I'd known and I was taking one after the other after the other, sometimes doubling up with two canisters in one balloon. I'd spend all weekend in the flat, easily getting through 500 in two days.'

Within weeks of starting on nos her health began to suffer. She developed pounding headaches and could barely speak.

'I wasn't looking after myself, not eating properly and even forgetting to drink water some days,' she says. 'I didn't even have the cognitive function to answer my phone. On Monday mornings, after a heavy weekend on balloons, I'd avoid speaking to people or going to meetings because my brain couldn't cope. It felt like the cells had died.'

'It was a worse addiction than cocaine. My brain was fried, I could barely leave the house or speak. The effects were devastating.'

It has been an offence to supply the drug for recreational use for some time, but in November last year possession of nitrous oxide gas became illegal in the UK, following a similar ban in the Netherlands. As a controlled class C drug, those who repeatedly misuse it now face up to two years in prison, while dealers could spend 14 years behind bars. (Those with a legitimate reason for possessing the substance will be exempt.)

Critics have warned that a ban will simply stop users seeking medical help and drive the drug underground. In August last year, 15 neurologists and health experts wrote to the Government saying that banning the drug may make those suffering adverse effects delay coming to hospital while their symptoms are still treatable. They added that the 'net effect of that may be that they develop long-term harm damages'.

Billie, who lives in East London and is the daughter of TV presenter Trisha Goddard, says she tried to keep the habit a secret from friends and family.

'My mum came to stay and I would make up excuses to go out of the room to have a balloon,' she says. 'I remember one time going into the toilet with a canister and making all these coughing sounds to cover up the sound of me inhaling while she was on the sofa having a cup of tea. She probably suspected something was wrong but I kept it hidden.'

Trisha, who made her name in the 1990s as a daytime chatshow host debating the lives of ordinary people featured as guests on her eponymous show, admits she did not know the extent of her daughter's addiction until Billie gave an interview to a newspaper in 2019.

'I was shocked but not surprised,' Trisha said. 'She'd never talked to me about them but I'm very glad it's all out in the open. Since my second divorce in 2018, there are no secrets or lies between us and we're much closer.'

Billie says that she only realised she had a problem when, a few months into her addiction, her ex-boyfriend discovered 'drawers and drawers of empty canisters'.

'I was confronted with the fact I had a real problem. My ex told me I was going to die if I didn't get help.'

There were 56 deaths involving nitrous oxide in England and Wales between 2001 and 2020, according to the Office for National Statistics. Concerningly, the number of people going to hospital with complications from heavy long-term use is on the rise.

'Nitrous oxide inhibits the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12, which is vital for nerve function,' says Dr David Nicholl, consultant neurologist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. 'They usually come in presenting with tingling hands and feet or trouble walking. But I've seen patients who won't ever walk properly again due to this gas and will always need crutches.

'Ten years ago, I'd maybe see one or two of these cases every few years but since the pandemic we're seeing one or two a week. Last year I thought the number might be slowing down, but since the summer two patients came in in one week.

'It's not just themselves they're hurting. I'm hearing from the fire service that people are driving after taking nitrous oxide, which is causing accidents. It's a real problem.'

Gary Haffenden (pictured) smashed a pick-up truck into Syed Zaidi, 35, in Virginia Water, Surrey

This was the case in 2021 when a hit-and-run driver was seen inhaling from a laughing gas balloon moments before he killed a father of two with his pick-up truck. Gary Haffenden, 21, from Surrey, was already on bail for another crash when CCTV footage showed him sucking on a balloon thought to be filled with nitrous oxide just ten minutes before he struck Syed Zaidi at 67mph in a 40mph zone.

Police later found his abandoned truck with 17 empty nitrous oxide canisters inside.

But users say the cheap cost and the accessibility of the drug makes it attractive, particularly to younger people. Josh*, 24, from Essex is now paralysed, having spent more than 60,000 on nos over the last nine years.

'I started balloons when I was about 15 and was knocking around with other boys who were doing it,' says Josh, who took part in a HealthWatch Essex podcast to raise awareness of the addiction 'I'd smoked weed before and that had made me spaced out, but on balloons you got an actual high, the feeling is something you can't describe, like a thrill.

'I got addicted very quickly and suffered from depression and anxiety. I was earning seriously good money from a number of jobs so I could easily afford boxes and boxes of the canisters. Family and friends didn't know what was wrong.'

The impact on his health has been enormous.

'I started getting tingling sensations and shooting pains in my hands and feet and so I'd stop taking it for five days. I'm at the point now where I can't actually feel my feet. I have slight movement in them but if someone touched my foot, I wouldn't know. I can't really put my socks on because my toes don't do what they're supposed to do.'

Josh has now been left with possible permanent damage after waking up unable to move his legs.

'I woke up and tried to stand, but collapsed. My mum had to help me back on my feet and carry me to my bed. I told her I'd hurt my legs. She didn't know how serious this was. But I literally couldn't walk, I was hunchback and shuffling along, not like a 23-year-old healthy man. I had to admit what I'd been doing and that I could have caused some serious damage.

'Mum took me to hospital and I spent 12 days there. The doctors think I have a neurological disorder caused by B12 deficiency and maybe the nerves around my muscles are damaged. I can't work and they can't put a time frame on when it might get better. The doctors said I should be dead.'

Physiotherapist Francine Sehmbi says she is seeing more cases like Josh.

'We did an audit from June 2022 to January 2023 and of the 18 patients with nitrous oxide symptoms, 14 of them were young men. The average age was 20. Legs and feet tend to be more badly affected but those whose hands are affected can't wash, dress or even hold a cup to take a drink. After physio and occupational health visits, many of them improve over time but we simply don't know what the long-term effects will be as the evidence is quite new.'

The spaced-out high that nos gives is even being used by criminals to target impressionable young people. Rachel*, a 23-year-old personal assistant from East London was out with friends recently when she was targeted.

'We had been drinking and were on our way to another bar when two men selling nos approached us. They started chatting us up and offered us balloons for free,' says Rachel. 'I'd taken it before at parties and I'd had a bit to drink, so I didn't even think - I just did it.'

'One of the guys gave me a balloon and said he'd hold my phone while I took it. I inhaled and felt a bit dazed but then his friend distracted me before they both ran off with my phone. They managed to access my online banking, my emails, my social media accounts  I've no idea how many thousands of pounds I lost. I reported it to police but nothing has come of it. I just feel so stupid for not realising their game.'

After accepting the extent of her addiction, Billie Dee did eventually get help in rehab and has now built up a successful PR business. She now speaks out about her drug use to help others.

She is doubtful whether the government ban is helping youngsters. 'If you criminalise its use you're going to drive it underground,' she says. 'I've been in drug and alcohol recovery for years and have managed to get on with my life and build up a successful business. I don't know if I'd have been able to do this with a criminal record.'

But while critics say the ban may cause further harm, others hope it is putting people off the drug.

'Hopefully, the ban is something of a deterrent as most young people don't want to get in trouble with the law,' says Fiona Spargo-Mabbs who set up the drugs education charity the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation in 2014 in response to her 16-year-old son's death after taking ecstasy.

'We think police and government will use the law for repeat offenders rather than occasional users, but knowing there will be consequences of some sort might be enough to put some people off trying it. Drugs education is always the key, rather than criminalising young people.'

* Names have been changed
British Muslim clerics who embarked on a so-called 'fact-finding' mission to Afghanistan have praised the 'beautiful' Taliban leaders for instilling freedom in the country following their rise to power amid the US pullout in August 2021.

The imams travelled to Afghanistan last summer as part of a trip organised by Prosper Afghanistan, a UK-based NGO that seeks to support rebuilding initiatives, and the Human Aid & Advocacy group.

The all-male delegation spent eight days touring Afghanistan and meeting with Taliban leaders, making statements on Afghan TV extolling their virtues, before returning to Britain to continue their praise of the Taliban at an event held at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL).

Muslim outlet 5pillars reported the trip aimed to 'dispel myths' about Afghanistan following the Western media's 'complete distortion of reality' in the country.

A member of the group, Mufti Ismail Satia, told the 250-person-strong crowd at QMUL: 'We went to Afghanistan with a very open mind... it brought back to me the stories of the Sahaba (companions of Prophet Muhammad) that we read.

'They reminded me of those who sacrificed for Islam and those who were willing to do anything for Islam.'

Shaykh Haitham Al-Haddad meanwhile defended the Taliban's restriction of girls' education, claiming that any criticism of the move is nothing more than Western propaganda to demonise the hardline Islamists.

'Western secular influences were being driven into the minds of the students who were speaking against the Shariah and many vices were creeping in... when it is time to rebuild the country we cannot tolerate division and therefore temporary suspension of liberal, secular education took place.'

The imams travelled to Afghanistan last summer as part of a trip organised by Prosper Afghanistan, a UK-based NGO that seeks to support rebuilding initiatives, and the Human Aid & Advocacy group

Muslim outlet 5pillars reported the trip aimed to 'dispel myths' about Afghanistan following the Western media's 'complete distortion of reality' in the country

Armed Taliban security personnel ride a vehicle convoy as they parade near the US embassy in Kabul on August 15, 2023, during the second anniversary celebrations of their takeover

The trip organised in July 2023 came weeks before the Taliban celebrated the second anniversary of their return to power and the takeover of Kabul.

Taliban leaders point to the distinct lack of conflict in Afghanistan as evidence their government has brought security and peace to the nation, which for decades prior had been wracked by war.

There has also seemingly been a reduction in corruption, which was rife amid the two-decade-long rule of Western-backed governments thanks to the aid money poured into the country.

But human rights observers say this relative security was achieved by ruthless policing and a restriction of general freedoms - and has been blighted by an increase in terror attacks by extremist groups.

And the plight of women has become dire since the return of the Taliban.

Girls over the age of 12 have been mostly excluded from school and the government has also stopped most Afghan female staff from working at aid agencies, closed beauty salons, barred women from public spaces like parks and gyms and curtailed travel for women in the absence of a male guardian.

Journalism and activism, which also blossomed in the two decades of rule by Western-backed governments, has been significantly suppressed with a slew of media workers and campaigners detained.

But these factors appeared to be of little importance for the British imams, who sang the praises of their hosts on Afghan television.

Suliman Gani, a Muslim chaplain at St George's Hospital in the district of Tooting in London, said to the RTA network: 'We are understanding your vision and it's very, very positive  the government itself have set such an amazing vision which has really touched my heart and really impressed me and gives us more confidence.'

Al-Haddad meanwhile dismissed the importance of women's education and said the Taliban must focus on consolidating security, economy and spirituality.

'Security [is] the first element of establishing a country and the second one is  economy and the third one then [is] the spiritual kind of dimension,' he said.

'Then we can discuss other things about women's education.

The British imams sang the praises of their hosts on Afghan television before returning to London to extoll their virtues

Taliban supporters parade through the streets of Kabul on August 15, 2023 in Kabul

Afghan women wait to receive food rations distributed by a humanitarian aid group, in Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Speaking at QMUL, Hamid Mahmood, the founder of an Islamic girls' school in east London, told the audience of the freedom he felt in Afghanistan.

'It was somewhat a quite sad and painful experience leaving that land because I will be very honest and I've said this very clearly that there was something there, a feeling [of] outright freedom,' he declared.

'After speaking to many ministers we realised what freedom meant. They were trying to free themselves not just from physical oppression, physical subjugation and colonialism but also financial, economic and also intellectual enslavement.'

But Zalmai Nishat, founder of the anti-extremist Etidal Peace and Democracy Foundation told The Times: 'This is a perfect exercise of whitewashing and glorification of the Taliban... this security they talk about is at the expense of freedom and marginalisation of ethnic communities in Afghanistan.'

A spokesperson for QMUL told The Times the event in September was not sponsored by the university, adding that it was jointly organised by Prosper Afghanistan and Human Aid & Advocacy.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer today took on Rishi Sunak and the left of his own party with a major vow to maintain defence spending and a 'triple lock' on the UK's crucial nuclear deterrent.

Sir Keir today became the first Labour leader in three decades to visit the Barrow-in-Furness shipyard where the next generation of Trident submarines are being built.

Writing for the Daily Mail today he vowed that his 'changed' party will 'never shut its eyes to the threats our country faces'.

In a major shift from the Jeremy Corbyn years, he says Labour is now 'utterly committed to our nation's defences'. Sir Keir describes his belief in Nato and the UK's nuclear deterrent as 'unshakeable'  and says national security always comes first under his leadership.

He also told the i newspaper he would match Tory plans to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP - subject to meeting Labour's fiscal rules.

The news provoked anger on the hard Left fringe of the Labour party, many of whom are supporters of Mr Corbyn, a former vice-president of CND and long-term nuclear critic.

Meanwhile, the SNP has branded the proposals 'grotesque' and accused Labour of throwing billions of pounds down the drain.

Sir Keir today became the first Labour leader in three decades to visit the Barrow-in-Furness shipyard where the next generation of Trident submarines are being built.

The news provoked anger on the hard Left fringe of the Labour party, many of whom are supporters of Mr Corbyn, a former vice-president of CND and long-term nuclear critic.

In his pledge, Sir Keir promises to put in place a nuclear deterrent triple lock as the bedrock of a plan to keep Britain safe if he wins the general election

The Dreadnought-class subs, set to replace the Vanguard fleet in the early 2030s, will be capable of launching Trident 2 D5 nuclear missiles.

While Mr Corbyn championed nuclear disarmament, his successor says his commitment to the deterrent is 'total'.

In his pledge, Sir Keir promises to put in place a nuclear deterrent triple lock as the bedrock of a plan to keep Britain safe if he wins the general election.

He writes: 'First, we will make a cast-iron commitment to build all four new Dreadnought nuclear subs here in the UK, in Barrow-in-Furness. British investment, supporting skilled British jobs and boosting British communities.

'Second, we will pledge to maintain Britain's continuous at sea nuclear deterrent. Backing our brave submariners who sacrifice a normal life to keep us safe 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

'Third, we'll promise to deliver all future upgrades needed. We'll ensure our nuclear deterrent is properly equipped and armed to face the challenges of the decades to come.

'Make no mistake, this is a generational, multi-decade commitment. Not only is this about defending our land and our Nato allies, it's also defending our economy  prioritising British jobs, British skills and much-needed economic growth here on our shores.'

Sir Keir has previously made clear that he would be willing to press the button and use nuclear weapons to defend the UK  in stark contrast to Mr Corbyn.

The former Labour leader was asked in 2015 whether he would, if in power, use such weapons, and replied: 'No.' He also said the UK should not renew Trident. 'I am opposed to the use of nuclear weapons. I am opposed to the holding of nuclear weapons. I want to see a nuclear-free world. I believe it is possible,' he told the BBC at the time.

Sir Keir will today become the first Labour leader in three decades to visit the Barrow-in-Furness shipyard where the next generation of ballistic missile submarines are being built

While Mr Corbyn championed nuclear disarmament, his successor says his commitment to the deterrent is 'total'

Sir Keir today also takes a swipe at the Government's record on defence, accusing the Conservatives of having 'hollowed out our Armed Forces' and leaving the Army 'at its smallest size since Napoleon'. He adds: 'I'm sorry to say that the Churchillian bulldog spirit has disappeared from this modern Tory party.'

The Mail is demanding an immediate cash boost for the Armed Forces after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt dismissed calls for a big rise in funding in the budget.

Our Don't Leave Britain Defenceless campaign is calling for an immediate rise from 2.3 to 2.5 per cent of national income, and at least 3 per cent by 2030.

Sir Keir positions Labour as a party that can be trusted on defence, and calls for an 'honest appraisal of the state of our Armed Forces'.

'We will back our Armed Forces,' he adds. 'We will back our nuclear deterrent. We will back Britain.'

It comes after a poll for the Mail, by Redfield and Wilton Strategies, last month found voters no longer view the Tories as the party of defence.

Sir Keir today also takes a swipe at the Government's record on defence, accusing the Conservatives of having 'hollowed out our Armed Forces'

Asked which party they trusted more on national security and defence, 34 per cent said Labour, compared with 23 per cent for the Tories.

Sir Keir will today meet BAE staff and military personnel when he visits the Barrow shipyard to see Britain's nuclear submarines being built, alongside his defence spokesman John Healey, telling them that the nuclear deterrent is the 'bedrock' of Labour's plan to keep Britain safe.

He will also vow to offer new UK leadership within the AUKUS defence alliance between Britain, Australia and the US.

Rishi Sunak visited BAE Systems Submarines in Barrow with the Chancellor last month, and declared a 'critical national endeavour' to secure the nuclear industry's future. The Prime Minister insisted the Tories had overseen a 'renaissance in the nuclear industry' and announced a fund backed by 20million to support growth in Barrow.

He also committed a further 180million a year over the next decade, which Downing Street said would provide grants to local organisations and improvements to transport and health outcomes in the area.

Responding to Sir Keir's Barrow visit, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said last night: 'Sir Keir Starmer and John Healey tried twice to put Jeremy Corbyn in charge of the nation's Armed Forces.

The same man who wanted to scrap our nuclear deterrent, dismantle Nato and questioned the integrity of the British intelligence community.

'Labour's Shadow Foreign Secretary even voted repeatedly to scrap Trident. They are not the Party to be trusted with our nation's defences.'

KEIR STARMER: My commitment to the UK's nuclear deterrent is... Unshakeable. Absolute. Total

By SIR KEIR STARMER

Watching a nuclear submarine being built is a humbling experience. It takes some of our finest engineers harnessing the world's most cutting-edge technology, all in an extremely high-security environment.

I'm proud that today I'll be the first Labour Party leader in over 30 years to visit the shipyard of Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, to see these incredible boats being built. And in the face of rising global threats and growing Russian aggression, I'm proud to confirm to Mail readers that Labour's commitment to our nuclear deterrent is total.

Visiting the historic Barrow site today, I want to personally thank the Royal Navy personnel, the workers and the apprentices who are building Dreadnought: the next generation of Britain's nuclear deterrent. Arriving in the town yesterday, I felt the weight of history here. The generations of families who have worked to defend our country, and the scale of the decisions taken by past political leaders.

Though they led two opposing parties, Winston Churchill and Clement Attlee stood shoulder to shoulder in the face of Nazi Germany .

And although Attlee led a change of government to Labour in 1945, there was no change in commitment to Britain's national security.

Sir Keir will be the first Labour Party leader in over 30 years to visit the shipyard of Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria

Nowhere is that clearer than in the development of Britain's nuclear deterrent. Building on Churchill's wartime legacy it was Attlee  and his foreign secretary Ernest Bevin  who first established our independent British nuclear programme. Meanwhile, Bevin was helping to create the Nato alliance.

Alongside the creation of our NHS, these are towering achievements of that Labour government which have defined modern Britain. They are a proud part of my party's heritage. And they remain so vital today.

Vladimir Putin's savage invasion of Ukraine, and his hatred of Western democracy, shows why a strong Nato and a strong UK nuclear deterrent are both essential.

So I want to be crystal clear to Mail readers. My commitment to Nato and the UK's nuclear deterrent  maintained on behalf of Nato allies  is unshakeable. Absolute. Total. The changed Labour Party that I lead knows that our national security always comes first. You can see that in the rising numbers of candidates and five-fold increase in Labour members from the Armed Forces community.

Our actions will speak louder than words. That's why I'm announcing today that if we are privileged to serve in government, my Labour Party will put in place a nuclear deterrent triple lock as the bedrock of our plan to keep Britain safe. And we'll ensure our investment in Britain's defence supports British jobs first.

First, we will make a cast-iron commitment to build all four new Dreadnought nuclear subs here in the UK, in Barrow-in-Furness. British investment, supporting skilled British jobs and boosting British communities.

Royal Navy personnel, workers and apprentices are building Dreadnought: the next generation of Britain's nuclear deterren

Second, we will pledge to maintain Britain's continuous at sea nuclear deterrent. Backing our brave submariners who sacrifice a normal life to keep us safe 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Third, we'll promise to deliver all future upgrades needed. We'll ensure our nuclear deterrent is properly equipped and armed to face the challenges of the decades to come.

Make no mistake, this is a generational, multi-decade commitment. Not only is this about defending our land and our Nato allies , it's also defending our economy  prioritising British jobs, British skills and much-needed economic growth here on our shores.

I want to see more homegrown involvement in the nuclear submarine supply chain  and our wider defence manufacturing. With Labour, the defence industry will be hardwired into my national mission to drive economic growth across the UK.

Beyond Barrow, more than 1,500 firms across the length and breadth of the UK help supply the Dreadnought submarine programme. But I believe we can do better. We'll direct British defence investment first to British businesses. We'll ensure as much of our defence equipment as possible is designed and built in the UK.

Sir Keir wants to see more homegrown involvement in the nuclear submarine supply chain  and our wider defence manufacturing

And we'll set the bar higher for any decisions to buy abroad  making sure it's not just how much you spend, but how well you spend it.

In addition to our powerful nuclear triple-lock, a Labour government I lead would offer new UK leadership within the AUKUS defence alliance. Labour fully backs this historic agreement between Britain, Australia and the USA and we will ensure it delivers for Britain.

So we will fully back the building of AUKUS nuclear submarines here in Barrow for decades to come. And we'll throw our weight behind other AUKUS programmes to make this national endeavour a success for Britain. Because AUKUS has the potential to be a game-changer  not only defending our shared interests, but ramping up local jobs and growth in communities across the UK.

My changed Labour Party is utterly committed to our nation's defence, to our Armed Forces and to the great British companies and workers who supply them.

I wish I could say the same for this Conservative Government.

But over 14 years of failure, the Conservatives have hollowed out our Armed Forces, leaving our Army at its smallest size since Napoleon. Their defence procurement failures have wasted over 15billion of taxpayers' money. They are failing British troops and British taxpayers.

Don't just take it from me. The Conservatives' own former defence secretary and former defence minister have both slammed their party's record. They rightly argue the Government has failed to prepare for this era of global instability.

I'm sorry to say that the Churchillian bulldog spirit has disappeared from this modern Tory party. We need a robust, honest appraisal of the state of our Armed Forces. What we have is a Prime Minister with his head in the sand.

My changed Labour Party will never shut its eyes to the threats our country faces.

We will back our Armed Forces. We will back our nuclear deterrent. We will back Britain.
Ex-Page Three model Samantha Fox today denied assaulting her Norwegian wife after a drunken bust-up on a British Airways flight from Heathrow to Munich which forced it to abandon take-off.

The glamour model and popstar, 57, threatened a police officer when she was arrested and spent a night in a prison cell after chaos erupted on board the plane on December 3 last year.

Appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court, Fox admitted drunk and disorderly behaviour and using threatening behaviour, causing harassment, alarm or distress to Police Constable Ashley Smith.

However, she denied an assault by beating charge against Linda Olsen, her wife whom she married in 2022. She will stand trial at the same court on September 2.

Fox was hit by tragedy last year when her sister Vanessa suddenly died of a heart attack.

She met wife Olsen - who MailOnline understands is still in a relationship with Fox - a year after the death of her former partner, Myra Stratton.

Ex-Page Three model Samantha Fox pictured appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court today

The glamour model and popstar (pictured, in 1984), 57, threatened a police officer when she was arrested

She has been charged with assaulting Norwegian Linda Olsen (pictured, left, with Fox at the Inspiration Awards for Women in January 2023) on December 3 2023

Fox and Olsen (pictured, on their honeymoon in August 2022) started dating in 2016, a year after the death of Fox's former partner Myra Stratton

Fox (left) pictured with Olsen (right) at Madame Tussaud's in December 2019

Fox pictured on the set of Loose Women in January 2018

Fox and Olsen pictured together at their lavish wedding in London in June 2022

Fox, pictured in her heyday, is due to stand trial on September 2

Fox posing at the peak of her glamour model career in 1986

Following the bust-up, the BA plane was turned around and holidaymakers were forced to disembark as a result of the airport's strict 10pm closing time.

Passengers were put up in a hotel as a result before continuing their journey the following day.

Fox appeared at court today wearing a black blazer, a white top and carrying a handbag.

She started dating Olsen in 2016, a year after the death of Fox's former partner Myra Stratton from cancer.

The former glamour model, who suffered a cancer scare herself two years ago after finding a lump in her vocal cords, announced in 2018 she had finally found love again with the Norwegian single mother-of-two.

The couple got married in a lavish Eurovision Song Contest-themed ceremony at the Kings Oak Hotel in Epping Forest, Essex, in June 2022, and Fox later revealed they didn't see each other the night before the big day.

She arrived at the ceremony in a white taxi decorated with pink ribbons and a stunning blush heart-shaped floral arrangement on the bonnet, while the number plate read 'Sam and Linda are getting married, 18th June 2022'.

They were forced to postpone their 2020 wedding due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The former model was given away by her mother Carole and stepfather Colin, who walked her down the aisle on crutches after recently breaking his femur.

Fox previously spoke about her relationship with Olsen after she left the Celebrity Big Brother house in 2017.

'I've now [fallen] in love with another woman,' she said.

'I met somebody a couple of months ago and I'm very happy. As you get older life goes so quick.'

She also discussed her sexuality whilst inside the house, and said she hadn't fallen in love with a woman until she met Myra.

The couple (pictured together on Loose Women in June 2022) were forced to postpone their 2020 wedding due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Fox (pictured at the couple's wedding at the Kings Oak Hotel in Epping Forest, Essex, in June 2022) with Olsen at later revealed they didn't see each other the night before the big day

The couple (pictured with bridesmaids at the wedding) got married in a lavish Eurovision Song Contest-themed ceremony

Fox announced in 2018 she had finally found love again with the Norwegian single mother-of-two (pictured: Fox and Olsen)

Fox (right), with her former partner Myra Stratton (left), who died of cancer in 2015

Fox pictured in 1986 with ex-boyfriend Peter Foster who cheated on the model and sold the story of their sex life to a tabloid newspaper

The couple pictured in 1987. Fox told The Guardian in 2002: 'I'm old enough now to know that I'd never be taken in again by the likes of Peter Foster'

Fox said: 'I just believe that love is far greater than anything. You can't help who you fall in love with.

'If you fall in love with somebody, you fall in love with them. You can't help that can you.'

Fox is due to stand trial on September 2.

Fox has had a string of famous ex's before her marriage to Olsen, including serial swindler Peter Foster.

Foster convinced Fox to publicly support his 'weight loss' tea in the UK in the 1980s and the pair commenced a relationship.

Fox, who has also dated Kiss guitarist and lead singer Paul Stanley and Spanish bullfighter Rafi Comino, said Foster proposed but she turned him down.

Foster cheated on the model and sold the story of their sex life to a tabloid newspaper.

'My parents had split and here was a man who was clever, manipulative and domineering,' Fox once said. 'I came close to marrying him because I was so vulnerable.'

Years after their split Foster suggested that he and Fox make a movie about their lives together but she declined through her lawyer.

'I'm old enough now to know that I'd never be taken in again by the likes of Peter Foster,' Fox told The Guardian in 2002. 'But then, I was 22 and impressionable.'
This is the moment veterans join forces to give a British spy a proper send-off after fearing the lonely paratrooper was set for a pauper's funeral.

Lance Corporal Terence 'Paddy' Purcell died aged 70 without any known family or friends, meaning his farewell was set to be held in a heartbreakingly empty room.

But after a fellow veteran put a call out on social media, soldiers who served with Paddy's regiments - 2 Para and 3 Para - rushed to attend the service at Kingston-upon-Thames Crematorium.

Former SAS Sergeant Major Bob Craft, who now works as a funeral celebrant with Civil Ceremonies Ltd, told the Mirror: 'It is sad that because Terence had no known family, or was estranged, he was going to get a pauper's funeral.

DID YOU KNOW PADDY? EMAIL ABBIE.LLEWELYN@MAILONLINE.CO.UK

Lance Corporal Terence 'Paddy' Purcell's funeral was at Kingston upon Thames Crematorium, in southwest London, yesterday

Paddy's funeral was originally only set to have two attendees, but after a social media call-out, servicemen from the Paras and other regiments descended on Kingston to pay their respects

Pictured: Lance Corporal Terence Purcell (furthest from right in middle row) in the 2 Para boxing team

Veterans in their distinctive maroon berets (pictured), many with the iconic paratrooper cap badge, gathered at the crematorium in honour of their fallen comrade

'I didn't know Terence but I gather he was a good man, a good soldier who served his country well and deserved a decent funeral.

'Most of my work is for military veterans and sadly they often have no close friends or relatives.'

Paddy is believed to have become estranged from his family after a long clandestine career in Northern Ireland.

Hailing from South Armagh, he joined the Parachute Regiment in 1971, becoming a boxer and serving in Berlin.

He was with 2 Para, but when they were deployed to Northern Ireland he moved to 3 Para's anti-tank platoon to prevent him being targeted in his own country for being a British soldier.

Later, he was recruited into a shadowy British Army unit where he was sent on secret missions and liaised with UK intelligence and IRA insiders.

He worked undercover for many years, cut off from friends and family, before disappearing when the peace process began.

According to the Mirror, sources said much of Terence's history was erased but that 'his job was incredibly dangerous'.

Pictured: Lance Corporal Terence Purcell (kneeling, fourth from right) with 3 Para anti-tank platoon in 1979

Paddy served in Germany and Northern Ireland with the 2 Para and 3 Para and later worked for a specialist Army unit, working undercover

Attendees at the funeral includes paratroopers, Welsh Guards and Royal Navy servicemen, including one submariner, as well as members of the SSAFA army charity and local branches of the Royal British Legion

The celebrant was former SAS Sergeant Major Bob Craft, who paid tribute to the 'outpouring of support' for Paddy

He spent his final days in a care home in Worcester Park, Kingston, and was set to be buried without fuss.

Sgt Maj Craft, who also served in 1 Para, said: 'Little is known about his life after he left the Paras.

'He faced a quiet funeral with just two witnesses. But he was not alone when he went on his final drop. It's great we gave him a proper military goodbye.'

An online appeal by the SSAFA Armed Forces Charity on X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook, called on veterans to 'attend the funeral of a veteran', saying: 'He has no family, no-one should take their final journey alone, please retweet. RIP Sir.'

This caught the attention of the Parachute Regimental Association and other soldiers and veterans groups.

In an incredible show of solidarity, dozens of paratroopers, as well as other veterans including from The Welsh Guards, the Royal Navy - including a submariner - and members of the SSAFA and local branches of the Royal British Legion from Surbiton and Croydon, joined to give him a full military send-off, despite most having never met him.

Despite the full pews, one attendee knew Paddy personally - Alan Crutchley from Shropshire, who recalled: 'He was a good boxer and I remember fighting with him in Berlin in 1979.'

On the morning of the funeral, the coffin arrived in a hearse and was carried into the chapel by six ex-Paras wearing their distinctive maroon berets to the Paratroopers' song Ride of Valk-yries.

A line of veterans stood respectfully to attention in the guard of honour near the chapel entrance.

As the flag was removed from the coffin the Standards of the Parachute Regiment and the Royal British Legion were slowly lowered and the Last Post was played.

As The Last Post sounded, the celebrant added: 'Terence's time is now over, a veteran whose battles have come to an end.

'With hearts heavy with sorrow, yet light with gratitude.

'May his spirit soar with the Valkyries as he joins the noble ranks of warriors who have gone before him.

'We commit the body of Terence Purcell to its end with nature and to be cremated.

'Rest peacefully and enjoy being welcomed into the halls of heroes.'

A line of veterans stood respectful near the chapel entrance (pictured) as the coffin arrived ahead of the service

The veterans stood to attention at the chapel entrance and held the standards of the Parachute Regiment and the Royal British Legion (pictured)

The celebrant paid tribute to Paddy's 'last drop' as the haunting sound of a C130 troop carrier aircraft was played over the sound system along with The Last Post, The Ride of the Valkyries, Pomp and Circumstance 4 and the theme tune from the 1977 Richard Attenborough film A Bridge Too Far.

The celebrant added: 'The response today has demonstrated the unwavering compassion and love for a fellow veteran like Terence Purcell.'

He also read the Airborne Forces Collect: 'May the defence of the Most High be above and beneath, around and within us, in our going out and in our coming in, in our rising up and in our going down, through all our days and all our nights, until dawn when the Sun of Righteousness shall rise with healing in his wings for the peoples of the world, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.'

Sgt Maj Craft, 66, has acted as celebrant at 78 funerals, mostly military, making sure the dead are not buried or cremated alone.

He told the ceremony: 'I felt sad that we could not pinpoint your life story. Maybe you were lonely, maybe sad, hopefully you were happy.

'Either way, your final journey is well under way and everyone here can visualise that journey that we all expect to take one day.'

He added: 'The outpouring of support and energy from the veteran community has demonstrated the unwavering brotherhood, comradeship, compassion and love that exists among us, especially for a fellow veteran like Terence Purcell.

The coffin arrived in a hearse (pictured) and was carried into the chapel by six ex-Paras

Paddy's ashes will be scattered under a parachute at Peterlee airfield in Hampshire and a scattering service atop scattering service atop Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons in May

Paddy's ashes will be scattered under a parachute at Peterlee airfield in Hampshire and a scattering service atop scattering service atop Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons in May.

'Although many of you may not be acquainted with each other, you are all connected through the service for our Queen, now King and Country.

'Regardless of your cap badge, you have chosen to pause your usual routines today to honour the emotions that accompany us when we experience the loss of a veteran.'

Sgt Maj Craft said on social media that three similar funerals of veterans with no relatives were due to take place later this week.

He said: 'This is a growing problem and we want to make all those people who work in care homes and hospitals where veterans may be living or receiving end of life treatment to contact regimental associations to ensure that we can give these veterans and heroes the send-off they truly deserve.'

Last week Sgt Maj Craft posted on Facebook to say: 'I am confirmed and conducting the council funeral for 24234675 L/Cpl Terence Purcell next Tuesday the 9th April at the Kingston Crematorium, KT1 3EZ at 0940hrs.

'I know Vic Morrell (local welfare officer) is attending with the standard and a few chaps, but if we can rally more then that would be great. We have a 85' Regimental flag to dress him for entry.

Paddy was given a send-off that included the paratrooper's tune The Ride of the Valkyries and The Last Post

Soldiers and veterans responded en masse to a post on X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook, saying: 'No-one should take their final journey alone.'

As the flag was removed from the coffin, the Standards of the Parachute Regiment and the Royal British Legion were slowly lowered

'There is little firm news on his history so if anyone has any comments please send as I will include them in the service to hopefully add a personal touch.

'Please pass and share or cut and paste as much as possible.'

'Never the less he will get an airborne send off, which will be far better than the original council funeral plan of being slipped away unknown if Vikki hadn't flagged it out to us.

'It would be super if we can have a pall bearer party to march him in to The Ride of the Valkyries..

'There is no planned wake but I am sure we can slip to a local after to wet his passing.

'I will be in Kingston upon Thames Premier Inn on Monday evening if anyone is going to be around.'
A 9/11 first responder is in custody in South Carolina where he's accused of shooting dead a man he fought with in broad daylight in the parking lot of Chick-fil-A on March 20.

Anthony DeLustro, 64, who at the time of the shooting was a member of the Summerville Police Department in the Palmetto State, has been described as the 'aggressor' in the dispute by witnesses.

The incident occurred in the community of Summerville, just north west of Charleston.

Those witnesses said that DeLustro - who has since been fired - became embroiled in a dispute in the parking lot with Michael O'Neal, 39. It's not clear what led to the fight. Bystanders saw the pair get out of their cars in front of the restaurant and start to argue.

During the argument, DeLustro called O'Neal a homophobic slur. Despite repeated attempts by others, including DeLustro's wife, Pilar, to deescalate the situation, the former NYPD officer continued to try to fight O'Neal.

It culminated when DeLustro got into the passenger seat of O'Neal's car as the victim tried to drive away. As turned the engine one, DeLustro shot O'Neal, prosecutors said.

At a court hearing this week, DeLustro asked for mercy bringing up his heroism on 9/11 which saw him develop cancer, the tragedy of losing their special needs daughter, Kristina, in 2021 and raising two of their grandchildren.

Anthony DeLustro, 64, who at the time of the shooting was a member of the Summerville Police Department in the Palmetto State, he has since been fired, has been described as the 'aggressor' in the dispute by witnesses

Michael O'Neal, 39, pictured on a GoFundMe page that was set up by friends to help his family through this time

The Chick-fil-A restaurant in Summerville, South Carolina, where the shooting took place

'We've been raising them and sending them to Catholic school and trying to provide a good life for them. Just any the mercy you can show me, where I could be with them and help them get through this, I would appreciate,' reports The Post and Courier.

O'Neal came from a family of law enforcement officers. His father was a 30-year veteran of the Winston-Salem Police Department while his father was a former police chief in Burlington, North Carolina.

This week, WPDE reported that a personnel file on DeLustro mentioned that he had issues with his temper and that he had frustration with personnel.

Online records show that DeLustro was with the NYPD between December 1980 and February 2003. From there, he took a job in security at Trident Tech College in North Carolina. He began working in Summerville in 2007.

He left Summerville for the first time in 2009 to work at the College of Charleston Public Safety, Dorchester County Sheriff's Office and Citadel Public Safety. DeLustro took up a job in Summerville once again in January 2023.

However, Summerville Police Chief Doug Wright described DeLustro in complimentary terms during a press conference this week.

'I could tell you if we had some kind of indication that he was anything but that, he would not be allowed to continue his path in law enforcement  Im sure.'

'But what I could tell you is he was very well respected amongst the officers here both from a professional standpoint, from his experience, but also from his age and maturity,' Wright said.

Friends said that O'Neal was in South Carolina to begin training for a new job

The North Carolina native is son of the 30-year veteran cop and the grandson of a police chief out of Burlington

Summerville Police Chief Doug Wright informing the public about DeLustro's arrest this week

The judge ordered for DeLustro to be held behind bars until at least his next hearing, which is scheduled for June 14.

Amid their brawl, witnesses said that DeLustro identified himself as a Summerville cop, even threatening to arrest O'Neal.

In his press conference, Chief Wright said that once DeLustro identified himself as a cop, he was acting in an official capacity but that he didn't know why he would have been brandishing his gun.

'I can't speak to his mindset that day what he had endured or what led to him to make the decisions that he allegedly made that led to his consequential arrest,' the chief said.

'How he got to the point to where the decision was made to do what he did, we dont know those answers.'

At one point in the brawl, DeLustro's gun fell out of its holster. Shortly after that, O'Neal said that he was leaving. The suspect then threatened to shoot him, witnesses said, according to The Post and Courier.

When O'Neal got into his car to drive away, DeLustro also got in. The victim could be heard shouting: 'Get out of my car!'

One gun shot was heard, then O'Neal's car came to a stop close to the driveway entrance to the Chick-fil-A.

The wound hit O'Neal's arm and went into his chest, killing him. He was pronounced dead at the scene. DeLustro was treated for minor injuries.

O'Neal, a resident of Pfafftown, North Carolina, was in Summerville preparing to start a new job.

DeLustro was fired by the Summerville Police Department on April 10, the same day that state law enforcement announced the arrest warrant. In the aftermath of the shooting, he had been on paid administrative leave.
Norway's Arctic north has presented a bizarre plan to bring in a 26-hour day which would see clocks go up to 13 instead of 12.

The mayor of the remote town of Vadso in Finnmark County, in the Arctic Circle, sent the proposal to the European Commission to 'offer individuals the opportunity to enjoy more quality time' with their families, Politico reports.

Wenche Pedersen, who penned the letter to the EU, asked the commission to allow Norway to create a time zone where days are 26-hours long rather than 24.

When asked how this could be achieved, she said that the clock would go from to 13, but added: 'I don't think they're going to say yes so we haven't thought about all the details.'

Pedersen said the aim of the 26-hour day would be to give people more time to engage in 'activities such as fishing, hunting, learning new languages, or simply being with loved ones' as part of the region's push to attract more visitors.

The mayor of the remote town of Vadso in Finnmark County, in the Arctic Circle, sent the proposal to the European Commission to 'offer individuals the opportunity to enjoy more quality time' with their families, Politico reports (file image of houses in Finnmark County)

The plan is to highlight the Arctic north's 'unique way of life', which Pedersen said consists of residents focusing more on spending time with their loved ones rather than rushing to take public transport or travel long distances to get to work.

Vadso, which is near the Russian border, hopes that the longer days would attract new residents to come live in the remote region, which Pedersen says is now 'more important than ever' in light of Russia's war on Ukraine.

'We are one of the richest regions in Europe because [] we have more time,' the mayor told Politico.

Pedersen acknowledged that the request is unlikely to be granted, the plan would at least generate some publicity for the remote Arctic region.

Making the request to the European Commission would likely have been fruitless anyway, as an official told Politico that countries set time zones themselves, not the EU.
A man walks by a display of hi Seltzer on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024, at a Spec's Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods store in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has long opposed legalizing marijuana and has repeatedly blocked bills over the years that would lower the penalty for possessing small amounts of the drug.

Now he wants the state to explore going even further. On Thursday, Patrick called on state senators to look at banning delta-8 and delta-9 hemp products, which provide a high similar to marijuana, as part of their preparation for next years legislative session.

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Recreational marijuana use is illegal in Texas. People can access products with low THC levels for certain medical conditions, but the states medical marijuana program is more restrictive than most other states, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Delta-8, typically found in the form of edibles or vape cartridges, has exploded in popularity since 2019 after a new federal law reclassified the plant from an illegal drug to an agricultural commodity. Texas subsequently legalized hemp production.

Hemp products in the state can have only up to a 0.3% concentration of delta-9 THC, which is synthetically made and induces the high associated with marijuana. There is no limit on delta-8 THC, which can cause a similar feeling, especially at high dosages.

The Texas Department of State Health Services is engaged in an ongoing legal battle over the legality of delta-8, but in the meantime, the courts have allowed it to remain on shelves. The case is currently pending before the Texas Supreme Court, the states highest civil court.

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Delta-8 occurs in the cannabis plant in such low quantities that its not economically feasible to mass-produce it. Instead, businesses typically manufacture it in a lab by extracting the natural compound cannabidiol, or CBD, from hemp and chemically converting it to delta-8.

The products grossed over $2 billion in sales in 2023, according to a report by the Chicago-based Brightfield Group, a market research firm that studies the cannabis industry.

Past proposals to ban delta-8 products have gotten pushback from veterans groups who say the products help them deal with ailments including chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder. Proponents of the ban say the state Legislature never intended to legalize products that make people high.

In 2019, a Patrick spokesperson told the Texas Tribune the lieutenant governor is strongly opposed to weakening any laws against marijuana (and) remains wary of the various medicinal use proposals that could become a vehicle for expanding access to this drug.

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Patricks request on Thursday called for recommendations to further regulate the sale of delta-8 and delta-9 products, and to suggest legislation to stop retailers who market these products to children. Some marijuana advocates said Friday it was unclear if he was calling for an outright ban or increased regulation. Patricks office did not respond to a request for clarification.

In 2021, state Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, added language to a bill that would include a ban on delta-8. That conflicted with a House version of the bill, and lawmakers ultimately failed to come up with a compromise.

Cynthia Cabrera, chief strategy officer with Hometown Hero, the Austin-based hemp company that sued the state over its attempt to ban delta-8, said Texas already regulates consumable hemp products and requires certain third-party lab testing.

The company is open to any additional sensible oversight that protects consumers, prohibits access by minors, and safeguards the entire supply chain, she said, adding the company has long supported an age limit of 21.

Reasonable and coherent regulations benefit everyone, Cabrera said. Removing hemp products from the market is reckless and misguided.

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Texas NORML, a pro-marijuana advocacy group, has for years supported regulation on delta-8. The groups executive director Betty Williams said that could include age restrictions and ID checks by retailers, childproofing of containers, prohibitions on advertising that appeals to children and increased testing requirements for potency and contamination.

Mitch Fuller, national and state legislative chairman for the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars, whose group has fought past attempts to ban delta-8, said Friday in response to Patricks announcement that the group is not opposed to regulation, especially to prevent the products from getting into childrens hands. But the group will vociferously oppose any attempts to ban the product, which he said would hurt the many veterans who now rely on delta-8 products.
The Slender Man Stabber had her petition to leave a mental hospital rejected after she failed to convince a judge she was no longer dangerous.

Morgan Geyser, now 21, was 12 years old when she brutally stabbed her friend Payton Leutner, also 12, almost 20 times in 2014 in an unhinged plot to appease the online horror character.

She had requested to leave Winnebago Mental Health Institute on conditional release, arguing that she had previously faked psychosis symptoms and was no longer a threat to society.

Despite testimony from two psychiatrists who argued in her favor, Judge Michael Bohren ruled there was 'clear and convincing evidence' that Geyser should remain in custody.

Morgan Geyser is pictured in a Milwaukee court Thursday, where two experts warned she was too dangerous to release. A judge agreed, and she will remain in custody

Geyser's accomplice Anissa Weier, 19, (pictured) was released from the Winnebago Mental Health Institute in 2021 after a judge ruled that she is no longer a threat to anyone

Payton Leutner was almost killed in 2014 aged just 12, after Morgan Geyser and Anissa Weier stabbed her a Milwaukee wood - then claimed that a supernatural figure called the Slender Man had told them to do so

Geyser appeared in court Thursday handcuffed, and was sporting a new look with a partially shaved head and a haunted expression on her face.

In 2014, she was ordered to spend 40 years in psychiatric hospital following the crazed attack on Leutner.

She and her friend Anissa Weier lured Leutner to a wooded area in a Milwaukee suburb during a sleepover, where Geyser stabbed her 19 times while Weier egged her on.

Geyser stabbed her across her arms, legs and torso, hitting major arteries and severing her diaphragm. The two attackers then told Leutner to lay down while they got help, leaving her for dead before Leutner was found by a cyclist.

They claimed they were motivated by the supernatural figure 'Slender Man', sparking a moral panic over potential copycat attacks as the character swept the internet.

Both Geyser and Weier told detectives they felt they had to kill Leutner to become Slender Man's 'proxies', or servants, and that the character would kill their families if they didn't follow through.

Geyser pleaded guilty to attempted first degree intentional homicide, and was initially diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder.

The girls claimed they carried out the attack to become servants for the fictional horror character Slender Man (Depicted in artwork, above)

Geyser pictured in 2014 in her mugshot after the notoriously-brutal attack

Weier seen in her 2014 mugshot after she and Geyser stabbed Payton Leutner 19 times

However, she has been off antipsychotic medications since 2022, and her doctors claimed she was recovering without any new symptoms in her request for conditional release, reports Fox8Live.

Dr. Ken Robbins, who recommended she moved to a supervised group home, testified that she has 'improved quite dramatically.

'The kinds of things Morgan needs in my view  help with socialization, help with education, help with becoming independent  are things Winnebago can no longer provide in an effective way,' he said.

Dr. Kayla Pope, medical director at the Winnebago hospital where Geyser has been since 2018, also argued for her release.

'She has actively participated in therapy, medication management and all the treatments that are available,' Pope said. 'At this point she is safe to return to the community. I dont know that much more could be done to make her safer.'

However, other psychiatrists argued against her release, feeling she still poses a threat to society.

'It's my opinion to a reasonable degree of professional certainty that she currently presents a significant risk of bodily harm to herself or others if conditionally released,' Dr. Deborah Collins said.

Another psychologist, Dr. Brooke Lundbohm told the court: 'That would be rather remarkable. That would be very callous as well,' of Geyser's claims that she'd previously faked psychosis symptoms.

Both Geyser and Weier told detectives they felt they had to kill Leutner to become Slender Man's 'proxies', or servants, and that the character would kill their families if they didn't follow through. (pictured: Geyser in court on Wednesday)

Psychologist Dr. Deborah Collins told the court that Geyser was still too dangerous to release

Collins added that if she had to estimate when she thought Geyser could be released from the hospital, it would be in six to 12 months.

'I know she's not ready now,' Collins said.

'We have issues with being able to reliably trust her own self appraisal,' Lundbohm added.

'If the person is not able to have insight into their mental health condition, the potential warning signs, the triggers that could cause decline, have insight into the kinds of treatment that may be beneficial - it raises a lot of concerns,' Lundbohm testified.

Judge Bohren said he remained troubled by Geyser's changing stories over the attack, claiming to have faked her psychosis and saying the stabbing came as part of a plan to escape her allegedly abusive father, who is now deceased.

'Her credibility is at issue. Shes changed her position,' Bohren said. 'Until that credibility is resolved, the risk is high,' he added.

Following the hearing, Geyser's attorney Tony Cotton argued she had not changed her story, and the stabbing was due to a trauma related mental disorder instead of schizophrenia.

'Time will show she is a healthy and stable person who needs to be released to the community. Time has shown that,' he said.

Geyser admitted to manipulating Weier into believing in Slender Man.

Weier was previously granted conditional release from a mental institution in 2021.

She has been living with her father ever since, wearing a GPS monitor under supervision.

Geyser seen at a previous court appearance in September 2017. She has remained in some form of custody since her arrest in 2014

In response to the vicious crime, Eric Knudsen, who created Slender Man in 2009, said that he was 'deeply saddened' to hear about it.

'I am deeply saddened by the tragedy in Wisconsin and my heart goes out to the families of those affected by this terrible act,' Knudsen said.

Leutner spoke out about the horrifying ordeal, which left her traumatized for months and covered in 25 scars, for the first time in a docu-series called Inside The Verdict: Slender Man last fall.

She described how during the attack Geyser told her: 'Don't be afraid. I'm only a little kitty cat.'

The girls then fled the woods, leaving Leutner for dead.

They later told detectives that they believed Leutner would not survive.

'So, we told her we we're gonna get help, but we really weren't. We were going to run and let her - pass away,' Weier told detectives.

Geyser, after describing the crime in a separate interview, became worried about how much she had revealed.

In a clip from her interrogation, she confessed: 'I might as well just say it, we were trying to kill her. Will I regret giving you this information later?'

Both Geyser and Weier apologized for their actions during their sentencing hearings, but the judge determined that neither were mentally fit to be released.
A Rastafarian cafe owner who befriended David Cameron has been found guilty of sexual assault after groping two women.

Hugh 'Andy' Anderson was convicted of the assaults on two victims over their clothing, one on April 23, 2022 and the other on May 1 that year.

The 74-year-old runs the Hi-Lo Jamaican Eating House which was a regular haunt of the Foreign Secretary while at Oxford University.

Anderson was once reported as saying he liked the future Prime Minister 'so much that he often asked him [Cameron] to look after his young son'.

After being found guilty at Oxford Crown Court, he was given a 26-week suspended prison sentence for each assault - suspended for two years.

Hugh 'Andy' Anderson, 74, has been found guilty of sexual assault after groping two women

Speaking on a TV documentary in 2009, Anderson said he and Cameron (pictured) would spend their time discussing reggae and jazz

He was also placed on the sex offenders' register and ordered to pay 3,500.

During the trial, one victim explained how Anderson had groped her in the early hours of the morning.

She said: 'At one point, I was getting some drinks and a conversation started with this gentleman.

'I can't remember how the conversation started, but I couldn't hear him and he suggested I came closer to him.

'I stepped forward to hear him, and then he put his hand around the back of my bum, and then he shoved it up and then he groped me.

'He kept saying, 'f*** me,' and I stepped back and pretended I couldn't hear him - and I kept saying sorry.'

The partner of the other victim told the court that Anderson had similarly groped her in the early hours of April 23.

'[She looked] very distressed,' he said.

'She said, 'he just touched me,' and I asked how - and she showed me, and said 'I've never been touched like that in my life.'

Anderson denied the allegations.

After being found guilty at Oxford Crown Court, he was given a 26-week suspended prison sentence for each assault - suspended for two years

The 74-year-old runs the Hi-Lo Jamaican Eating House which was a regular haunt of the Foreign Secretary while at Oxford University

'She is lying,' he said. It's the same pack of people accusing me. It's the same bunch of people.

'They are working for each other; they are working together, that's plain.'

Anderson served Cameron as they listened to reggae music in his Hi-Lo Jamaican Eating House in the 80s and claimed Mr Cameron used to visit his restaurant 'once or twice a week'.

In 2012 he was reported as saying: 'David was one of our regulars. I think he liked the atmosphere. We get a real mixture of people here.'

It is unknown whether this will impact the licensing of his business in Cowley Road.

As Anderson left the court, a friend could be seen patting him on the back and saying: 'You're a free man.'
A landowner has been fined 10,000 and told to tear down a shed and toilet he had built in the woods to make them more accessible to disabled nature lovers.

Stephen Windsor, 64, built the buildings in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Quarry Woods, Box, Wiltshire, after purchasing land in 2021.

He has been in a long-running battle with Wiltshire Council over the project after it repeatedly ordered him to demolish the shed.

But he has previously vowed to fight them 'all the way' to try and save the project which he describes as a 'safe haven'.

Mr Windsor said he constructed the 'welfare area' in 2021 to make the woods more accessible for disabled people, including a shed equipped with a composting toilet.

Stephen Windsor, 64, built the shed in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Quarry Woods, Box, Wiltshire, after purchasing land in 2021

Pictures of the development show logs placed around what appears to be a table or a fire

Mr Windsor said he constructed the 'welfare area' in 2021 to make the woods more accessible for disabled people, including a shed equipped with a composting toilet

He has now been ordered to pay the council nearly 10,000 and demolish the 'unlawful' buildings after the council secured a High Court injunction to push through the demolition as they were built without planning permission.

Mr Windsor previously said he did not need planning permission as the structure is moveable and not attached to the ground.

However, the area has been afforded a high level of environmental protection as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to a rare bat population and the council said it has acted to protect them.

At a High Court hearing on April 5, Mr Windsor was ordered to permanently demolish and remove the buildings by May 5.

He was also ordered not to build any further structures on the site and now must pay the council's costs of 9,880.

Failure to comply with this injunction may result in a fine, imprisonment, or asset seizure.

Mr Windsor was previously found guilty of failing to comply with an enforcement notice ordering him to demolish the buildings in February 2023.

He appealed this decision at Salisbury Crown Court but lost the appeal in July.

He has now been ordered to pay the council nearly 10,000 and demolish the 'unlawful' buildings after the council secured a High Court injunction to push through the demolition as they were built without planning permission

A strange sign is pictured attached to a tree reading: 'Danger Keep out. protected by witchcraft'

A picture shows a sign on one of the trees in the development, saying 'Alarm mines, keep out'

A blue tent was also pictured inside the area of woodland

Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council, explained the construction took place in a protected area that is home to rare bat populations.

He said: 'This injunction shows just how seriously we take contraventions of planning law here in Wiltshire, and I'd like to pay tribute to the tenacity of our planning enforcement team in this case.

'While these buildings may be small, they were constructed without permission in deciduous woodlands with a very high degree of environmental protection.

'The land is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, within the North Wiltshire Greenbelt, and within a Special Area of Conservation.

'It is part of an internationally important site for roosting bats and is home to 10 per cent of the UK population of greater horseshoe bats, which is one of our rarest bat species.

'Our message to anyone considering building without planning permission is clear - we will use all of the legal powers available to us and take enforcement action against breaches of planning regulations in Wiltshire.'

Wiltshire Council ordered Mr Windsor to demolish the buildings as they were in the protected site but he has not done so

There is also a free-standing gate in the development, which doesn't appear to open onto anything yet

Pictures of the development from last year show the shed in a secluded area of woodland

Previously concerns were raised by a local community group over the use of the site - with worries people may be living there, or move onto the site as it develops.

Pictures of the development from last year show logs placed around what appears to be a table or a fire, a half-built shed and ramps, as well as a blue tent.

There was also a free-standing gate, and strange signs saying 'Alarm mines, keep out' and 'Danger keep out, protected by witchcraft'.

Following the loss of first appeal last year, Mr Windsor said: 'I'm not going to stop because the council can't get away with this.

'It's going to be a beautiful thing and it is in keeping with the woodland, there's no water, electricity or gas and you can't see it from more than 20 metres away.

'I think it's disgusting that the council would do this, I'm totally stressed all the time over this and just gobsmacked.'

It is not clear if Mr Windsor will continue with his legal battle following the most recent High Court hearing.

Friends of Quarry Woods, a community group set up to preserve the nature site, previously issued a statement of support for the council's intervention.

Last year a spokesman said: 'We are pleased to see that Wiltshire County Council are taking the strong legal protections of this site seriously, and hope they continue to do so for other sites across the county.

'The woods are hugely important for wildlife (including rare and protected bats) and for our community's wellbeing.

'We hope they will be safeguarded and appropriately managed for future generations.'
A former factory worker who now makes a living impersonating King Henry VIII has told how he spent 2,500 on a custom-made costume that leaves school children convinced he really is the monarch.

David Smith, 24, from South Ockendon in Essex, began dressing up as the Tudor king as a hobby but then turned it into a full-time job and now tours all around the country doing events at schools and other venues.

With his ginger locks and beard, he looks remarkably like Henry when he was young and in his prime in the early 1500s.

Mr Smith spent six years working in a factory that makes shower trays but gave it up after he saw a costume on Facebook and bought it.

He then took things to another level by having a second more authentic outfit custom-made - complete with an impressive codpiece.

'I don't take myself seriously, but I take what I do very seriously. I want to be the most authentic Henry VIII impersonator there is in the country,' he told MailOnline.

'I will work until I've done that. I want to be the person that people contact when they need Henry VIII. I believe I've got a good service to offer to people.'

A former factory worker who now makes a living impersonating King Henry VIII (right) has told how he spent 2,500 on a custom-made costume that leaves school children convinced he really is the monarch. David Smith (left), 24, from South Ockendon in Essex, began dressing up as the Tudor king as a hobby but then turned it into a full-time job

Mr Smith with (from left to right) Kristen Hansen as Catherine of Aragon, Karen as Anne Boleyn, Mercedes as Jane Seymour, Olga as Anne of Cleves, Izzy as Catherine Howard and Emma as Catherine Parr

He added that children, who are left 'absolutely mesmerised' by his act and costume, often ask him, 'how are you still alive'.

For a heritage fair in Ipswich, Mr Smith was asked to come with the monarch's six wives and so put a post on Facebook and was immediately deluged with responses.

He was already good friends with Kristen Hanson, 36, who portrays Catherine of Aragon - Henry's first wife - and had secured women to play the king's other five spouses - Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard and Catherine Parr - within a week.

He did however initially struggle to find someone to portray Anne of Cleves - Henry's fourth wife - before a woman living in Scotland agreed to step in and travel to Ipswich to take up the role for the event.

Mr Smith said he has had an interest in history for as long as he can remember.

'It started with dinosaurs when I was about four years old. The Tudors started when I was eight,' he said.

'We had just learned about them at school; I went to the Tower of London and was mesmerised.

Mr Smith is good friends with Kristen Hanson, 36, who impersonates Catherine of Aragon alongside him at some events

Mr Smith had an authentic outfit custom-made - complete with an impressive codpiece - at a cost of 2,500

'I don't take myself seriously, but I take what I do very seriously. I want to be the most authentic Henry VIII impersonator there is in the country,' he told MailOnline

He added that children, who are left 'absolutely mesmerised' by his act and costume, often ask him, 'how are you still alive'

'I remember Anne Boleyn telling me about her execution. When I was looking at books, the thing that caught me the most was the pictures.

'I was enthralled with the depictions of Henry VIII. I would then read the text, which was just as interesting and just as engaging. It went from there.'

Mr Smith turned his hobby into a full-time pursuit last year when he quit a second job as a delivery driver for fashion retailer Next.

By then, he had been performing with a re-enactment group but chose to part ways with them.

The history fan then spotted an advert posted by educational firm Historic Workshops, which puts on classes for children.

'I looked at the job, I was like I don't care what the money is, this is my job,' he said.

On the day that he had the job interview, he was dressed up as Henry for an event and did not have time to get changed.

So he instead sat in a cafe while dressed as the Tudor monarch and had the grilling over Zoom.

Ms Hanson, 36, who portrays Catherine of Aragon and is a long-term friend of Mr Smith, lives in Grimsby and works as a compliance administrator for a firm of financial advisors

Mr Smith met Ms Hanson (pictured together in their costumes) when she worked as a photographer for the re-enactment group that he was previously part of

Ms Hanson believes that Catherine of Aragon, who was from Spain, is 'really underrated'. Above: Her and Mr Smith as Catherine and Henry, with birds of prey

Ms Hanson said of Catherine: 'She is portrayed a lot as the woman who got in the way of this great love story between Henry and Anne'

'They saw first hand the level of authenticity my outfit has and my passion for history,' he said.

Mr Smith did his 100th workshop in March and has travelled as far as Cambourne in Cornwall and Sheffield in South Yorkshire to go to events.

Although he does impersonate other characters from history - ranging from the Stone Age to the Victorian era - his favourite is Henry.

He said he wants to show people a 'different side' to the monarch.

'I'm not trying to champion him because he did do some very brutish things,' he admitted.

But he added: 'Let's talk about Henry when he was young, when he was dancing and singing and in love with his wives.

'He was considered handsome, gracious, affable. Thesr are the qualities that everyone forgets.

'Or they look at it and concentrate on all the bad things that he did.

'When people say he executed his wives and killed people, tell me which medieval king didn't execute people?'

Henry was married to Catherine for more than 20 years but strove to end their union when she failed to give birth to a surviving son.

He became infatuated with future second wife Anne Boleyn but Pope Clement VII refused to annul their marriage.

Henry then defied him by proclaiming himself supreme head of the Church of England and splitting from the Catholic Church.

In the end, he got his wish and went on to marry Anne. She gave birth to the future Queen Elizabeth I but also failed to give him a son and was beheaded in 1536.

The King also had his fifth wife, Catherine Howard, executed.

Speaking of how school pupils are enthralled by his portrayal, Mr Smith said: 'Children are absolutely mesmerised when they see me.

'Especially the younger years, years two and three. They are like "oh my god Henry VIII is here!".

'Some children have cried when I have raised my voice a little bit to display Henry's temper.

One question I get often is: "How are you still alive?"

'Staying in character, I say, "because God wills it to be so". Henry was a religious man, so it's God's will that he is still here. So that's my answer to the children.

'They genuinely believe that I am Henry VIII.'

Mr Smith - who has also become good friends with the woman who portrays Catherine Howard - met Ms Hanson when she worked as a photographer for the re-enactment group that he was previously part of.

Any women enthused by Mr Smith's act will be pleased to know that he is single. But he did add: 'I'm not actively trying to look for a relationship. I just dont have the time.'

Ms Hanson, 36, lives in Grimsby and works as a compliance administrator for a firm of financial advisors.

She impersonates Catherine of Aragon in her spare time and does between five and 10 events a year.

The office worker told MailOnline: 'I've loved history since being little, since Year 4 with the Tudors.

'I became obsessed with them. And it's grown from there. Catherine is my favourite of the wives.'

She joked: 'I'm single, apart from the "marriage" to David. We are just friends in real life.

'Whenever he gets a girlfriend I do say to her "I'm the wife, you're the mistress".'

Speaking of how school pupils are enthralled by his portrayal, he said: 'Children are absolutely mesmerised when they see me. 'Especially the younger years, years two and three. They are like "oh my god Henry VIII is here!"

Henry was married to Catherine for more than 20 years but strove to end their union when she failed to give birth to a surviving son. Above: Mr Smith as the monarch

The pair are set to go to Italy together for a couple of weeks for a parade fair.

She added: 'I love going to the events and meeting people. It is expensive but once you get into it, it is such a lovely thing talking to people and bringing the history to life and getting people interested in it.'

Ms Hanson believes that Catherine of Aragon, who was from Spain, is 'really underrated'.

'She is portrayed a lot as the woman who got in the way of this great love story between Henry and Anne,' she said.

'They were married nearly 24 years, she was pregnant six times. They had a great love story themselves which doesn't really get told that much.

'It gets overshadowed by Anne.'

She added: 'They were so romantic together, there were so many stories about how much he loved her and the courtship.

'That's what really attracted me to her, the fact that she doesn't get as much attention.'
An Afghan migrant on the terror watchlist spent a year in the U.S. was after he was released by Border Patrol.

Mohammad Kharwin, 48, a member of a 'virulently anti-Western' group, was apprehended when he illegally crossed into at San Ysidro, California, in March 2023.

But he was cut loose and allowed to roam the country after a judge declared he wasn't a national security threat, NBC News.

Almost a year later, the FBI notified Immigrations and Customs Enforcement that he was a suspected member of the US-designated foreign terror group Hezb-e-Islami (HIG).

Kharwin was free on bond and waiting for an immigration hearing in 2025 when he was finally taken into custody in February.

An Afghan migrant on the terror watchlist spent a year in the U.S. was after he was released by Border Patrol, a shocking new report has revealed. Migrants are seen lining up along the wall in Texas in March

Supporters attend a rally of Hezb-e-Islami leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar in Kabul Afghanistan on May 5, 2017

In an aerial view, morning commuter traffic waits to cross into the United States from Tijuana, Mexico on March 6, 2024 in San Ysidro, California

A national security source familiar with this case said: 'Based on the information available, there is no reason to believe this individual entered the country as part of a terrorist mission.'

The National Counterterrorism Center says HIG is responsible for the deaths of multiple Americans and runs on 'virulently anti-Western' ideology.

They were behind attacks that killed at least nine American soldiers and civilians from 2013 to 2015.

It is another shocking indictment of the situation at the border that has seen multiple terror suspects enter the U.S. and seen an historic surge in crossings since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021.

The Department of Homeland Security said border patrol did not release someone on the terrorism watchlist 'knowingly'.

'At the time of the initial encounter, the information in the record could not have provided a conclusive match,' a spokesperson said. 'As soon as there was information to suggest that this individual was of concern, he was taken into custody by ICE.

'Law enforcement has been tracking the matter closely to protect against public safety risks.'

Border agents took Kharwin into custody and initially held him because he matched the information of a suspected terrorist.

But officials lacked the evidence they needed to keep him in custody and referred him to ICE's Alternatives to Detention Program.

Mohammad Kharwin, 48, a member of the 'virulently anti-Western' group, was apprehended when he illegally crossed into at San Ysidro, California , in March 2023 (stock image)

Almost a year later, the FBI notified Immigrations and Customs Enforcement that he was a suspected member of the US-designated foreign terror group Hezb-e-Islami (HIG). Migrants are seen at a crossing in El Paso, Texas, last month

he leader of the Hezb-e Islami party, Gulbuddin Hekmatyar holds a press conference in Kabul, Afghanistan on January 4, 2018

HIG is an Afghan political party and paramilitary organization, originally founded in 1976

Supporters attend a rally of Hezb-e-Islami leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar in Kabul Afghanistan on May 5, 201

He was tasked with checking in with border agents by phone. Kharwin was then able to apply for asylum, get work and then use domestic flights in the U.S.

The judge placed no restrictions on his movements, and only require he return for a court appearance a year later.

The Department of Homeland Security told NBC News that Customs and Border Protection did not 'knowingly' release a person on the terrorist watchlist.

At the time of the initial encounter, the information in the record could not have provided a conclusive match', a spokesman said

'As soon as there was information to suggest that this individual was of concern, he was taken into custody by ICE. Law enforcement has been tracking the matter closely to protect against public safety risks.
Paul Flores, the convicted killer of college student Kristin Smart, was injured in a brutal attack at a prison in California on Wednesday.

Flores, 47, was stabbed with an inmate-manufactured weapon, making it the second time someone has tried to kill him in the past year.

The stabbing, which is being considered an attempted homicide, occurred in the recreation yard at Pleasant Valley State Prison around 3:30 pm.

According to a statement from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, prison guards were able to stop the violence with verbal commands.

An injured Flores was rushed to an outside health facility for medical care before later being returned to the prison in stable condition.

On Wednesday, Paul Flores (pictured in his mugshot) was stabbed in the recreation yard at Pleasant Valley State Prison. It's the second time Flores has been attacked by another inmate in the past year

Kristin Smart (pictured) disappeared in 1996 after a California college party - and Flores was found guilty after a crime podcast helped crack the case more than two decades later

Both attempts on Flores's life have occurred in the recreation yard at Pleasant Valley State Prison (pictured)

The suspected inmate involved in the attack, whose name has not yet been disclosed, was put in restricted housing.

Prison officials recovered two suspected inmate-fabricated weapons. Aside from killer Paul Flores, no other inmates or prison officials were injured in the attack.

In August, the 47-year-old was severely injured when another inmate slashed him in the neck with a weapon.

That attack occurred in the same recreation yard of the same California prison in which Flores was attacked on Wednesday.

He had been transferred to the prison only a week prior to the assault. He was previously locked up in the North Kern State Prison.

After the slashing in August, the Kristin Smart's murderer was whisked to a hospital, where his condition quickly stabilized. He was returned to prison two days later.

Jason Budrow, who has been accused of the August attack, has pleaded not guilty to felony charges including attempted murder and assault by an inmate serving a life sentence.

Flores, pictured in court in Salinas, California for his sentencing in March, was rushed to an outside hospital after the attack on Wednesday. He recovered quickly and was returned to the prison

Smart and Flores were both students at California Polytech University in San Luis Obispo when she vanished in 1996

Authorities have not yet offered potential motives for either attack, leaving many to speculate on possible reasons for the separate incidents.

Flores is currently serving a 25-years-to-life sentence for the murder of Kristin Smart, a 19-year-old college freshman who disappeared from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo over Memorial Day weekend in 1996.

The case was cold and remained unsolved for decades until a 2020 true-crime podcast galvanized the local police, which eventually led to the arrest of of Flores in 2021.

Although authorities never recovered Smart's body, they believe that Flores raped her in his dorm room before murdering her.

She had left an off-campus part in Flores's company on May 25, 1996, around 2 in the morning.

Flores claimed he escorted Smart to her dorm, but she was never seen again. Three days later, a missing persons report was filed.

Friends said that Smart was drunk and that Flores repeatedly said that he would walk her home.

Early on in the case, Flores was established as a person of interest, but to this day, he maintains his innocence.

Both Flores and his father, Ruben, were charged in connection with Smart's death.

Flores (pictured in 1996) became a person of interest shortly after Kristin Smart was announced missing. However, the case went cold and remained unsolved for decades

It wasn't until a true-crime podcast covered the story in 2020 that interest in the case was reawakened; pictured: a missing person flyer from the time of Smart's disappearance

Flores is now serving a 25-year-to-life sentence for Smart's murder

Prosecutors contended that Ruben assisted his son in stashing Smart's body under their backyard deck for years.

The father and son were suspected of moving Smart's remains once interest in the case started mounting in 2020.

Flores was found guilty of murder in October last year.

The trial was held in Salinas, about 110 miles north of San Luis Obispo, after the defense successfully argued that the case's notoriety precluded a fair trial for Flores and his father in their home county.

One of the items dredged up in the courtroom battle was an interview the Arroyo Grand Police Department conducted with Flores on June 19, 1996.

During the interview, Flores was repeatedly asked how he got his black eye.

'It didn't really matter,' Flores said. 'It was days later'.

Asked why his story about the black eye had changed, Flores said: 'Why does it matter if I leave out little details'?

A jury found Flores guilty of first-degree murder in October. A separate jury acquitted Ruben Flores, 81, of being an accessory in the crime.

Flores is seen in an interview at the time of Smart's disappearance

'After 26 years, with today's split verdicts, we learned that our quest for justice for Kristin will continue,' Kristin's dad, Stan Smart, said at a press conference.

'This has been an agonizingly long journey, with more downs than ups, but we are grateful and appreciate the diligence and energy of the two juries to thoroughly review the facts and reach their decision'.

He continued: 'To our Kristin: Almost three decades ago, our lives were irreparably changed on the night you disappeared.

'Know that your spirit lives on in each and every one of us, every day. Not a single day goes by where you aren't missed, remembered, loved and celebrated.'
Sickening new footage shows the moment Israeli hostage Noa Argamani is seized by Hamas and driven to Gaza.

The 26-year-old student was snatched by the terror group during their murderous attack on the Nova desert festival on October 7.

A picture of Noa - her arms outstretched toward her boyfriend as she screams for help - became one of the most recognisable images of the atrocities after it was published by The Mail on Sunday on October 8.

In new footage published yesterday, the young woman can be heard wailing as she is manhandled by a Palestinian fighter, who holds her head down as he places a black bag over her face.

The chilling video shows Noa surrounded by at least ten gun-toting terrorists who can be heard jeering and shouting at her.

This sickening new footage shows the moment Israeli hostage Noa Argamani is seized by Hamas and driven to Gaza on the back of a motorbike (pictured)

The chilling video shows Noa surrounded by at least ten gun-toting terrorists (pictured) who can be heard jeering and shouting at her

In the new footage published yesterday, the woman can be heard wailing as she is manhandled by a Palestinian fighter, who holds her head down as he places a black bag over her face (pictured)

The 26-year-old student was snatched by the terror group during their murderous attack on the Nova desert festival on October 7. This picture of Noa - her arms outstretched toward her boyfriend as she screams for help - became one of the most recognisable images of the atrocities after it was published by The Mail on Sunday on October 8

The highly-sensitive video is being hidden from Noa's mother Liora, who is dying from terminal brain cancer.

Late last year, the 61-year-old made a last ditch plea to US President Joe Biden begging him for the opportunity to 'hug' her daughter 'one last time' before she dies.

She said: 'I am terminally ill with Stage 4 brain cancer.

'All that's running through my mind before I part ways with my family forever is the chance to hug my daughter, my only child, one last time

'My daughter Noa is a contagiously happy and resilient young woman.

'She loves to dance, loves music, loves being with her friends and family.'

In March, she made another please to the President, saying in a video message: 'My heart really hurts. On one hand it's physical, it's not working the way it should. One the other hand, because my daughter is a hostage.

'Since the kidnapping, when I see her look in this picture, it chokes me up.

'How beautiful she is, how amazing she is. I want to see [my daughter] one more time. Talk to her one more time,' she pleaded.

Noa Argamani is one of 133 people that are still being held hostage in Gaza. She is one of just 19 women that are still being held by the terror group

Noa (pictured) was last seen alive in a hostage propaganda video which Hamas claims was filmed in January 2024

'I am asking you President Joe Biden, I don't have a lot of time left in this world. It may be my last wish, I am really begging you.'

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Noa's childhood friend Yan Gorjaltsan said: 'It's been more than half a year [since Noa was kidnapped]. There hasn't been one day that I haven't thought about Noa. I think about her all the time.

'I think about her at work and at school. It's been so hard to live our life knowing Noa is in hell. And every day we hope she will be released.

'Noa must see and hug her mother one last time. No mother should die knowing that her child isn't in safe arms. It's not humane to die this way.'

Noa Argamani is one of 133 people that are still being held hostage in Gaza. She is one of just 19 women that are still being held by the terror group.

Some of the survivors who have been released from Gaza during the hostage exchange and ceasefire deal in November have described being tortured, sexually assaulted and starved in captivity.

Earlier this week Hamas told international mediators that it couldn't meet the terms of the latest hostage exchange and ceasefire deal because it didn't have 40 living hostages that could be described as 'women, children, elderly, wounded and chronically sick.'

Noa was last seen alive in a hostage propaganda video which Hamas claims was filmed in January 2024.

The highly-sensitive video is being hidden from Noa's mother Liora (pictured right with her daughter), who is dying from terminal brain cancer

In the disturbing video the terrified 26-year-old student is forced to announce the deaths of her fellow hostages Yossi Sharabi, 51, and Itay Svirsky, 38, both kidnapped from Kibbutz Be'eri.

The film includes graphic clips of their bruised and bloodied bodies.

Her current location is unknown.

Israel regards all hostage videos as a form of psychological warfare.
The father of the teen stabbed to death on the Apple River by a Wisconsin engineer has made a heart-breaking statement outside court following the guilty verdict.

Donny Hernandez choked back tears as he thanked those who have supported his family since Nicolae Miu, 54, slaughtered his son Isaac Schuman, 17, in September 2022.

'I just want to thank all our supporters, our family, law enforcement, people that have supported us that we don't even know throughout the country, the state of Minnesota, wherever,' Hernandez said.

'It's been 21 months we've been waiting for justice for Isaac Michael Schuman and we got it today... I appreciate your love and support.

Hernandez trailed off as he struggled not to break down before saying again: 'Justice for Isaac.'

Donny Hernandez (pictured) choked back tears as he thanked those who have supported his family since Nicolae Miu, 54, slaughtered his son Isaac Schuman, 17, in September 2022

Isaac Shuman, 17, died after Miu stabbed him in his chest in the river. Miu also stabbed four of Schuman's friends

Miu turned to stare at his surviving victims and their families as he was found guilty of first-degree reckless homicide Thursday, meaning he faces up to 60 years in jail

Nicolae Miu sits with his head bowed Thursday morning as he is found guilty of the first-degree reckless homicide of 17 year-old Isaac Schuman

Miu was found guilty Thursday morning of the first-degree reckless homicide after killing Isaac on the Apple River in Wisconsin during a bloody rampage which also saw him stab several other teens with a Swiss Army knife.

The Romanian-American engineer was also found guilty of lesser charges of stabbing and injuring three boys and a girl.

Miu's rampage came after he was surrounded by a large group of raucous teens while tubing down the river and several of them pushed him around while accusing him of 'looking at a girl'.

He sat in silence with his head bowed as the verdict was read out after less than a day's deliberation. The trial lasted eight days, as more than three dozen witnesses took the stand.

The families of Miu's victims were heard giving a sigh of relief, KARE11 reporter Lou Raguse said. As he was led away afterwards, Miu was seen turning to stare at his surviving victims and their families.

First-degree reckless homicide was the third option available to jurors, after first-degree intentional homicide and second-degree homicide. It carries a sentence of up to 60 years in prison.

Miu said he had been searching for a friend's lost phone in the river when the teens falsely accused him of being a pedophile who was taking photos of young girls.

Horrific video of the interaction showed the teenagers heckling Miu before he pulled out a Swiss Army knife and started slashing them.

The families of Miu's victims were heard giving a sigh of relief, Kare11 reporter Lou Raguse said

Rhyley Mattison (left) and Tony Carlson (right) - two of the five teens stabbed by Miu in Apple River. Mattinson had to have emergency surgery

A.J. Marin (left) and Dante Carlson(right) - two others that were stabbed by Miu

During closing arguments on Wednesday, prosecutors said that Nicolae Miu 'did not act in self-defense' when he stabbed a group of teens in the Apple River in July 2022. (pictured: Miu in court on Tuesday)

One of the teens, Owen Peloquin, said he didn't see Isaac get stabbed, but dragged him to the shore when he saw him surrounded by a growing pool of his own blood in the water.

'I tried my hardest to stop the bleeding,' Peloquin told the court as he became visibly emotional.

Schuman was taken in an ambulance to the Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater where he was pronounced dead.

Four more teens were stabbed in the shocking rampage - Ryhley Mattinson, A.J Martin, Dante Carlson and Tony Carlson.

Mattinson had to have emergency surgery and when she arrived her blood alcohol level was at 0.09.

Carlson suffered penetrating trauma from his stab wounds and had to have a hernia repaired and his blood alcohol level was also 0.09.

As he testified in court on Monday, Peloquin said that Miu 'just weirdly like sprinted at us, just made us all super uncomfortable.'

Miu's attorney claimed he acted in self-defense, while prosecutors said he could have dispatched his attackers by flashing his knife without resorting to violence.

On Tuesday, Miu took to the stand and described how he feared for his life after they 'surrounded him like wolves' on the day of the attack.

When asked about the violent confrontation, Miu said that he had 'tunnel vision' and was 'in a fog' during the heated situation.

Miu of Prior Lake, Minnesota, claimed that his lethal stabbing was 'self-defense' after the group of tubers claimed that he was 'looking for little girls' and 'taking pictures of girls' in the area

When asked about the violent confrontation Miu said that he had 'tunnel vison' and forgot what happened after the situation got heated

Video of the chilling moment showed a member of the group stumbling into the river while a pool of red water emerged around him

He said that prior to interacting with the group, he had 'volunteered' to look for a friend's lost phone in the water before he interacted with the teenagers.

As he was shown pictures and video from that day, Miu said that he was touched by Madison Coen and Mattison before the knife was drawn.

He then said that as the interaction with the teens continued, his fear 'crept up' as they started to laugh and yell around him.

'They were very close, they were really close to me. I could feel and hear them,' Miu said.

Miu described how he reached for his pocket knife as his fear got 'really high' just before Madison placed her hand on his upper arm.

In recorded interviews, Miu said: 'All of a sudden, they were like wolves around me and they were attacking me from all directions and I truly, truly, feared for my life.'

'They came on to me. They hit me, they got on top of me, and I don't remember anything after that.'

During his testimony, he said that he didn't know how many people were attacking him but he knew that there were more than he could handle' and that he has had 'nightmares' since.

A witness, Larrion Davis later told investigators that he saw the attacker 'taking pictures of girls' in the area.

However, as he took the stand last week, Davis appeared confused over this claim, and admitted he wasn't sure what he saw because 'there was a lot going on.'

Miu's then wife Sondra told detectives that the violent altercation began after Miu, whose group was further up the river, went back to find a 'phone that was lost' while wearing snorkeling gear.

While he was looking, Sondra said a 'group of guys got off their tubes and started hitting' him.

Miu pleaded not guilty to the charges in September 2022.

He was originally born in Romania and immigrated to the US when he was a teenager.

Sondra and Miu got divorced after the incident and he was 'living a peaceful, quiet life in Minnesota' and 'had never been in trouble before.'
She compiled her favorites after spending one year traveling around the US

If you are traveling around the US and stuck for somewhere to eat - fear no more.

One seasoned traveler has helpfully compiled a list of what she considers to be the 13 best fast food joints in America.

'I spent 1-year driving around the U.S. on a quest to eat (and experience) the true culture of America,' Geena Truman wrote on travel site Fodors.

'This inevitably meant indulging in A LOT of fast food in between.'

Some on the list are well-known franchises, while others are hidden gems. Interestingly, neither McDonald's or Burger King make the cut.

But where is YOUR favorite ranked?

A traveler published a list of the best fast food restaurants based on her cross country trip throughout the US

Culver's was ranked as the traveler's number one restaurant in the US. There are Culver restaurants in 26 states and they won two Fasties awards in 2022

1. Culver's

Culver's first opened in Wisconsin in 1984 and now has nearly 1,000 locations spread across 26 states.

The fast food restaurant chain has a variety of menu items that you don't see at McDonald's, including soup, butterburgers, and frozen custard.

'Whether were cooking the perfect ButterBurger to order or scooping up our freshest batch of the Flavor of the Day, we work hard to ensure you will always leave happy,' says its website.

The restaurant's menu items have not only impressed consumers, but they've also been praised by the Thrillist's Fasties - an award ceremony that honors fast food.

Culver's took home the 2022 Fasties awards for Best Fast Food Cheeseburger and Best Fast Food Coffee.

2. Shake Shack

The restaurant was originally a hot dog stand in New York before it became a small but popular fast food chain. There are over 300 locations in the US

New York restaurateur Danny Meyer turned what began as a hot dog stand in Madison Square Park into one of the top five highest-grossing US fast food chains.

There are currently hundreds of US Shake Shack locations - with many understandably in New York - and the company is looking to expand its franchise.

According to Truman, a perfect meal at Shake Shack is 'a coffee custard shake, a simple all-American Angus Beef hot dog with cheese dipping sauce, and a smash burger.'

Customers can also purchase the restaurant's award winning ShackBurger Single.

3. In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger celebrated its 75th anniversary and currently has more than 400 locations in the US. The restaurant chain is not planning on developing restaurants on the East Coast

In-N-Out Burger is a cult favorite on the West Coast, and now has over 400 locations across the US in states including Texas and Arizona.

Truman wrote: 'In-N-Out is perhaps the most hotly-debated fast food chain on this list If you want a cheap fast-food burger with fresh toppings, a classic Americana malted milkshake, and cheesy fries with just a dash of salt, this is the place for you.'

She added that the only reason she didn't rank In-N-Out higher was due to its long lines.

A big bonus for the restaurant chain's burgers is that they are made from meat free from fillers, additives, and preservatives.

Unfortunately for foodies on the East Coast, the franchise is still yet to launch locations out that way.

4. Whataburger

The cross country traveler revealed that some of it best menu items include The Green Chile Burger and taquitos

This burger joint has been around since 1950, when Harmon Dobson opened its first ever Whataburger in Texas. There are now locations in 16 states.

According the chain's website, Harmon had one goal - 'to serve a burger so big it took two hands to hold and so good that after one bite customers would say, "What a burger!."'

Truman said some of its best menu items include The Green Chile Burger and their taquitos.

She did note however that while the restaurant is good, 'it's not a mind-blowing eating event.'

5. Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers

More than 150 Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers restaurants are located in Texas. They are known for their top rated Cane's Sauce

This fast food restaurant chain that specializes in chicken fingers with crinkle-cut fries has made its mark on 37 states and now has more than 150 locations in Texas.

Its Cane's Sauce has proven wildly popular and was rated the number one most craveable sauce by Technomic. Fans of the restaurant are even known as 'Caniacs'.

Truman said: 'In most fast-food joints, the chicken strips are a menu staple (or what you order for your kids), but nothing to write home about.

'Raising Canes perfected the recipe to fresh-never-frozen chicken fingers and paired them alongside Texas Toast, Crinkle Cut Fries, and most importantly, their signature dipping sauces.'

6. Five Guys

Five Guys founder Jerry Murrell began his business after his mother gave him a choice to start a business or go to college

Five Guys has been selling juicy burgers to customers since the opening of its first store in 1986.

Restaurant chain's founder, Jerry Murrell, says he was given a choice by his mother: 'Start a business or go to college.'

Five Guys now has almost 1,700 locations worldwide and all across the US.

While burgers are what its best known for, Truman said they are not what she loves most about the restaurant.

'While the burgers are tasty and completely customizable, which appeals to the general US customer base, its really the fries that shine,' she wrote.

'Freshly cut daily into "boardwalk-style" slivers and fried up in peanut oil (nut-allergists beware) Five Guys also offers them "Cajun-style" for travelers who want a little spice in their life.'

7. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A was ranked the top fast food chicken chain in the US in 2023. The traveler, along with other reviewers, love the restaurant's original chicken sandwich

Chick-fil-A was ranked the top fast food chicken chain in the US in 2023.

With more than 3,000 restaurants spread over 48 states, it is one of the bigger restaurant chain's on this writer's list.

Truman highlights its 'juicy' deluxe chicken sandwich and breaded nuggets.

But she warns travelers to remember they are closed on Sundays.

8. Dave's Hot Chicken

The traveler referred to the restaurant chain as 'the fastest-growing fast-food chain in America'

Dave's got rave reviews from this traveler, who said 'if you like your chicken spicy, this is your perfect road trip snack'.

There are currently hundreds of locations open across the US, with many more in development.

Indeed, Truman described the joint as 'the fastest-growing fast-food chain in America'.

Popular meals to choose from such include its Chicken Tender Slider and extra large-sized chicken tenders.

9. Kelly's Roast Beef

According to the restaurant chain's website, at least one of their restaurants have the potential to sell more than 20,000 sandwiches a month

What began as a Massachusetts hot dog shack has become a growing restaurant chain on the East Coast.

Sandwiches - specifically beef - are its specialty.

And according to Kelly's website, at least one of its restaurants has the potential to sell more than 20,000 sandwiches a month.

Truman wrote: 'You can satisfy your thinly-sliced roast beef craving, with their 25-day aged beef knuckle roast. Kellys is the go-to for a classic three-way-roast beef.'

10. White Castle

White Castle restaurants are primarily located in the East Coast, Midwest, and Florida, but it has expanded to cities in Arizona and Nevada.

White Castle is one of the oldest fast food restaurant chains in the US, after being founded back in the 1920s.

The restaurant chain is primarily located in the East Coast, Midwest, and Florida, but has expanded to cities in Arizona and Nevada.

Truman wrote: 'I can assure you that the best part of White Castle isnt the nostalgia; its the sliders.

'With 12 different bite-sized concoctions, including fish, chicken & waffles, faux meat options, and the best-selling classic 1921 slider, theres a little something for every road-tripper.'

The restaurant was also the first fast food chain to launch the plant-based Impossible Slider in 2018.

11. Dicks Drive-In and Zips Drive-In

The traveler couldn't choose between these two drive-in restaurants for the 11th spot on her list. The popular restaurants are only located in Washington

The traveler placed Dick's Drive In and Zip's Drive in a two-way tie for the 11th spot on her list.

Both of these establishments are extremely small and based in Washington.

'Dicks offers greasy, simple, and delicious beef burgers, salty fries, and thick old-school shakes served from walk-up windows,' Truman wrote.

'On the other hand, Zips has an eclectic menu all its own,' she added.

12. Jollibee

The fast food restaurant chain has over 1,500 stores worldwide, with 95 locations in North America

Jollibee is small by US standards.

The fast food restaurant chain has over 1,500 stores worldwide, but just 95 in North America.

There are 74 Jollibee locations in the US and the Fodor writer did not clarify what state she was in when she ate at the restaurant.

However, she did write that 'there is no other fast food chain quite like it in America.'

She said: 'Crispy fried chicken, beef patty steaks with gravy, spicy tuna pies, and their trademark sweet-sauce-topped spaghetti meals satisfy a wide range of palates'.

'Maybe this is why its fondly known as the McDonalds of the Philippines,' she added.
A family who lost their dog and resorted to using a drone to locate him were stunned to find him playing with a family of bears in the woods.

Footage captured of the heart-warming moment in Russia's far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula shows the playful husky nudging a big bear in an apparent introduction.

The stocky animal then sniffs the pooch and gently prods it with its paw to check for a response.

In the middle of a forest, the two furry creatures can be seen standing side by side before the husky jumps away into the woods.

The footage then cuts to show the pup bouncing between three other bears, as the family slowly stalk through the greenery.

The husky could be seen in drone footage making an introduction to a big brown bear in a Russian forest

Before long the pooch joins the trio of bears and the furry group of four continue their journey through the greenery

The family of the lost dog were stunned by the footage as dogs and bears are not known to get along

The dog, full of life, skips in and out of the bears' path as he playfully disrupts the family's walk, occasionally frocking with the cub.

And although the group is technically a pack of predators, they seem unfazed by the excited mutt.

The drone hovers further overhead, giving viewers an adorable shot of the husky bounding ahead of two bears before cheekily turning back to see if they would play.

The two smaller bears seem to enjoy the dog's enthusiasm and begin hopping along the path alongside the pup.

The touching moment then turns into a game of chase as the husky stops in its tracks to run after his new fluffy friends.

Now a group of four, the squad continues their journey through the grassy opening as the dog sprints beside the pack.

The family had reportedly lost their pet pooch while enjoying a stroll in the woods, but were shocked to see what he had been up to in his short time away.

The footage has racked up over a staggering 27million views and 12,000 comments on Instagram.

Social media users and dog-lovers were quick to leave their thoughts on the cute clip.

One said: 'The one bear shoved him like 'go the hell home dude'.'

Another commented: 'That one bear looked up at the drone at the end like 'come get your dog please'.'

'That's a Pixar movie right there!' added a third.

Another quipped: 'This proves that if humans disappeared today, other animals would keep our dogs as pets.'

A fifth chimed in: 'Freakin huskies. We adopted one after it was running with a pack of coyotes for six months but then got bored.' [sic]

One more added: 'These are Kamchatka Russian bears not grizzlies, although they are in the same family of brown bear.

'Kamchatka bears are much bigger than grizzlies, that's why they look so plump to North Americans.'

The footage came as a surprise to viewers as dogs and bears are not known to be best friends, according to BearVault.

'From squabbles over carrion in the wild to territorial disputes in backyards, they've never been known to get along,' claimed experts.

'It's no surprise, then, that bringing a canine into a bear's home comes with a certain amount of inherent risk for encounters between bears and dogs'.

A study by the University of Wisconsin in 2019 found there was evidence that 'dogs can trigger defensive attacks by black bears.'

This is why when walking through forest areas with a pet pooch, experts advise they should be kept on a leash.
By Anna J. Park

Following the outocome of the general elections on Wednesday, most politician-themed stocks plummeted, except for stocks related to Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo of the People Power Party, according to market watchers, Friday.

Ahn, a physician-turned-computer entrepreneur, won a seat representing Bundang-A constituency in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, in one of the fiercest competitions in the elections.

According to the Korea Exchange (KRX), the stock price of AhnLab, the nation's top antivirus vaccine developer founded by Rep. Ahn, ended at 69,200 won ($50.29), a 6.79 percent increase from the previous session. The stock enjoyed an upward trend for two consecutive sessions, following the results of the general elections.

Ahn still holds a 18.57 percent stake, or 1.86 million shares, in AhnLab as its largest shareholder.

Sunny Electronics, formerly led by Song Tae-jong, a former AhnLab employee, also soared by 21.87 percent at Friday's closing, continuing its three consecutive winnings streaks.

However, the positive performances of the two stocks are rather an exception.

Other politically themed stocks have mostly plunged, regardless of whether they are associated with winning or losing candidates, compared to their closing prices on Tuesday, the day before the general elections.

The preferred stock of Daesang Holdings, a theme stock of Han Dong-hoon, the ruling party's interim chairman for the elections who offered to step down recently, fell another 3.22 percent at Friday's closing, continuing the stock's losing streaks for the second consecutive session. Duksung, another politically themed stock related to Han, also fell for two consecutive sessions.

Stock prices of Dongshin Construction and ATEC  associated with Rep. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea  also fell, compared to their performances prior to the elections.

Market watchers warn investors of betting money on politically themed stocks, which during election periods often make moves mostly or entirely irrelevant to their corporate fundamentals or values. Also, most politically themed stocks hold tenuous connections to politicians, except in a few rare cases like AhnLab.

"It has been consistenly observed that not only did stocks related to losing candidates, but also those related to winning candidates, experience relative price declines after election days," Nam Gil-nam, senior research fellow at the Korea Capital Market Institute, pointed out after analyzing some 70 politically themed stocks during the 16th to 19th presidential elections.
A fifth grader from Washington State who wanted to start an interfaith prayer club at school because 'she felt alone' is speaking out after her request was denied.

Laura, who is 11 and attends Creekside Elementary School in Sammamish, east of Seattle, had hoped to start the on-campus club to bring together students of different faith backgrounds to 'serve their community'.

But her pitch to start such a club was rejected despite a Pride Club being approved only weeks earlier, DailyMail.com exclusively reported.

'I wanted to start it because I felt kind of alone in the classroom and at school and so I realized I had some friends and I knew some other people that felt the same way and so I talked to them and I was just like you know what it would be a great idea to make a club where people could come together and do good in the community,' Laura told Fox News.

The school is now being accused of violating the young student's First Amendment's religious freedom protections by denying her request.

11-year-old Laura's request to start an interfaith prayer club at her elementary school was rejected by the school principal despite allowing 'other non-religious clubs to meet'

'I think that this is something that I am very passionate about. I wouldn't be here if I didn't really want to make this happen, if I didn't think that it would be a great opportunity for everyone,' Laura added.

Creekside already allows more than a dozen other 'non-religious clubs' to meet including a Pride Club, which is a 'safe space' for educating students and staff on 'LGBTQIA+ history and people,' according to the school's website.

Principal Amy Allison also allows a Green Team, focused on making the school 'more sustainable'. A Marimba Club, Chess Club and Student Council are all among other secular groups currently permitted.

Kayla Toney is associate counsel at First Liberty Institute, a nonprofit Christian conservative legal organization which often litigates in First Amendment cases on religion.

'The first amendment is clear, the free speech clause and the free exercise clause both protect Laura's ability to pray, to speak about her faith, to gather with other religious students and the law is clear,' Kayla Toney said during the same Fox interview.

'If the school allows at least one non-curricular club, no matter what the club is about, it has to allow a religious club and it's actually viewpoint discrimination to deny a religious club just because it's religious.'

Creekside Elementary allows a Pride Club, which is a 'safe space for students to build community' as well as to 'educate and raise student and staff awareness about LGBTQIA+ history and people,' according to the school's website

The Pride club is said to have started at the school only recently, yet Laura's request for a prayer club was denied citing funding issues

Kayla Toney has put her beliefs down in a detailed letter, writing to the Issaquah School District on behalf of First Liberty Institute.

She wrote: 'Denying the formation of a religious student club while allowing other clubs violates the Constitution. School officials at Creekside Elementary are engaged in religious discrimination against an eleven-year-old girl who simply wants to pray, feel support from other religious friends, and do community service.'

When Laura and her mom met with Principal Allison in February, it was claimed all the funding for school clubs had already been allocated back in October, yet the pair allege how a Pride Club was launched just weeks before the meeting took place.

A spokesperson for the school has explained the prayer club's funding shortfall.

'Once the school year begins, the building budget is set and additional clubs are usually not added until the following school year,' the school stated, but Kayla does not buy the school's reasoning.

'She [Laura] even offered to do fundraisers if necessary. The Pride club again had started just a week before and another club is due to start pretty soon as well. So that excuse definitely did not make sense,' Kayla explained.

'The supreme court made it very clear that the First Amendment protects students and employees freedom and ability to live out their faith publicly, to pray, to exercise their faith. It's not something we have to hide as Americans because we have this strong protection of the first amendment.'

Kayla Toney states that the request to start a prayer club should be permitted no later than April 29, 2024.

'If we do not hear from you and receive those assurances by that time, we will proceed as our clients direct, likely pursuing all available legal remedies,' a letter to the principal concludes.

Student, Laura, left, and Kayla Toney, right, has put her beliefs down in a detailed letter, writing to the Issaquah School District on behalf of First Liberty Institute where she has warned how the school is in breach of the constitution

Mom, Kayla Toney, who is an attorney at First Liberty Institute that litigates First Amendment breaches says the request to start a prayer club should be permitted no later than April 29

'We are ready to litigate if needed' and are 'fully prepared to take this to court.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Creekside Elementary School and the school board for comment.

A spokesperson for the district said they have received the letter and will follow up with additional details following the spring break holiday.

'As you may already know, clubs offered are student-interest driven and meet outside of the school day. At the elementary level, participation in a club also requires parent permission,' spokesperson Lesha Engels said in a statement.

'Once the school year begins, the building budget is set, and additional clubs are usually not added until the following school year.'
An underground coal miner has revealed he takes home almost $300,000 a year.

The worker was interviewed in Brisbane's CBD this week by a member from the Getahead app, which operates similar to Tinder but for jobs.

When asked how much he earned, the man said that because he was self-employed, he was taking home just under $300,000.

A man in Brisbane revealed that he is making around $300,000 per year as a self-employed coal miner

'All my family's always just done it (and) I've been doing it since I was 17,' he said.

'Anyone can do it you just have to do a Standard 11 first.'

A Standard 11 is a government certified training module that must be completed by anyone looking to get into the mining industry.

It was developed to ensure that workers understand appropriate safety information and obligations, and typically takes two days to complete.

The miner warned that the work is not for the faint of heart, and that sometimes he works up to a kilometre underground.

The man said 'anyone can do it' with the right training but warned about dangers of the job (stock image)

'I don't get scared but there are other people that have come down for the first time and wanted to get straight back out because they couldn't handle it,' he said.

'It is a dangerous job obviously, you've got strata conditions, roof falls, gas explosions.'

Fellow TikTokkers pointed out how casual the miner was dressed despite his enormous wealth.

He was seen wearing a pair of thongs, blue board shorts and a patterned shirt.

He also had shopping bags from JB Hi-Fi and Rebel Sport.

The average salary of underground miners sits at around $150,000, according to job hiring platform Talent.

It's understood because the man is a subcontractor, he's able to make close to double that amount.
President Joe Biden used campaign donations to pay his legal bills related to the investigation of his handling of classified documents, a stunning new report revealed on Friday.

Biden and his allies have blasted rival Donald Trump for using donors' money to pay for his massive legal bills.

But Biden is doing the same thing, Axios reported, revealing the Democratic National Committee paid more than $1.5 million to lawyers or firms representing Biden during special counsel Robert Hur probe of the president's handling of classified documents.

President Joe Biden was investigated for having classified documents in his garage at his home in Wilmington, Del.

The DNC paid $1.05 million to Bob Bauer PLLC  the professional limited liability company for Biden's lead attorney, Bob Bauer from July 2023 to February 2024.

Additionally, starting last July, the DNC increased its monthly payments to law firm Hemenway & Barnes from $15,000 to $100,000.

Jennifer Miller, who works at the firm, is one of Biden's attorneys.

It's unclear how much of that money was spent on Biden's fees versus legal work for the DNC, which did not give a comment on the matter.

Hur was investigating how classified documents ended up in an office formerly used by Biden and in the garage of his home in Wilmington, Del., near Biden's classic corvette.

Hur, who was appointed to the position by Attorney General Merrick Garland, ultimately concluded there was insufficient evidence to charge Biden with a crime.

But, as part of his investigation, the special counsel interviewed Biden at the White House on October 8th and 9th. And the FBI had searched Biden's home to see if any other classified material was present. Biden's lawyers were present during both events.

Hur original, bombshell report sparked fury from the White House when the special counsel described the 81-year-old Biden as 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.'

Biden himself blasted Hur for claiming he didn't remember the day his son Beau died.

The Trump campaign slammed the revelations and accused Biden's 2024 team of being hypocrites.

'Joe Biden and the Democrats entire campaign against President Trump is based upon lies and hypocrisy they have repeatedly stated they dont spend money on Bidens legal bills while they attack President Trump for having to defend himself from Bidens witch hunts,' Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said.

'Come to find out, the DNC paid millions to cover Bidens legal bills to a law firm run by the husband of top White House staffer Anita Dunn. Apparently "10% for the big guy" from Hunter wasnt enough for Crooked Joe to foot his own bill.'

Department of Justice photographs reveal boxes and boxes of files stored in unsecure locations, such as the garage of his home.

President Joe Biden and his allies have mocked Trump for using donor money for legal fees

The president, in addition to the special counsel's investigation, also faces an impeachment attempt from House Republicans that is largely losing steam.

So the total amount of legal bills he's facing during his presidency remains unclear.

But the new report comes just a few weeks after Biden held a glitzy fundraiser at Radio City Hall in New York, featuring Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, where his campaign raked in over $25 million.

Biden and his allies have repeatedly mocked Trump for using donor money for legal fees. The former president faces around $100 million in legal bills tied to cases in New York and Georgia, along with two federal cases.

The president, at a fundraiser in Texas last month, got a huge laugh from donors when he said: 'Just the other day, this defeated-looking man came up to me and said, 'Mr. President, I need your help. I'm in crushing debt. I'm completely wiped out.''

'I said, 'Sorry, Donald, I can't help you.''

And when Trump raised over $50 million at a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago, a Biden campaign official mocked it as 'a handful of billionaires figuring out how to pay his legal bills.'

The DNC said there is a difference in the use of money.

'There is no comparison  the DNC does not spend a single penny of grassroots donors' money on legal bills  unlike Donald Trump, who actively solicits legal fees from his supporters and has drawn down every bank account he can get his hands on, like a personal piggy bank,' DNC spokesperson Alex Floyd said.

The Republican National Committee has asked DNC Chairman Jamie Harrison to explain to donors why their money was spent on Biden's legal fees.

Former President Barack Obama (left) and former President Bill Clinton (right) cheer for President Joe Biden (center) during a campaign fundraising event at Radio City Music Hall

Robert Hur original, bombshell report sparked fury from the White House when the special counsel described the 81-year-old Biden as 'a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory'

The Republican National Committee had paid some of Trump's legal bills but since he became a presidential candidate in 2022, his legal bills have been paid from campaign donations to his Save America PAC.

The RNC has now told donors none of their money will go to Trump's fights in court.

Last year, Trump's fundraising arms spent more than $50 million on legal costs.
This is the bizarre moment a man destroyed a furniture store in Brazil over a delayed delivery.

The customer , whose name was not released by the police, visited the store in the southeastern city of Rio das Ostras on Thursday to inquire about the delivery of an item he had purchased.

The man spoke to a manager about canceling the order, but was informed that in order to do he would be required to pay a 15 percent fee of his item's value.

Upset with the managers explanation, the individual ran through the store with an axe and smashed every furniture piece in his sight.

A customer was arrested and released on bail Thursday after he destroyed multiple furniture items at a store in Brazil after a manager told him that he had to pay 15 percent of his order's price to cancel it

The customer was upset that the delivery for a recent purchase was delayed and he lost his temper and destroyed multiple furniture pieces at the store after a manager informed him that he had to pay 15 percent fee to cancel his order

The irate customer talks to the police outside a Rio de Janeiro store while a woman holds the axe he used to destroyed several furniture items

The man could be seen running up to a closet and breaking the mirrors on two sliding doors.

He then proceeded destroy a wooden closet system and at one point got the axe stuck on one of the doors.

A woman approached him from behind him and pleaded him to stop.

However, the man ignored her and smashed another closet door.

It's unknown if the store canceled the customer's order and waved its penalty fee to do so

He continued his rampage by running around the store and striking other items before the video recording stopped.

Separate footage showed him standing outside the store and talking with the police before the woman took the axe from him.

He was arrested without incident and released on a bail bond, the Civil Police said.

It's unknown if the furniture store canceled the purchase without charging the man the penalty fee.
I had been dreading this call - yet knew it was likely to come.

They want you to find Michael Lynn, the chirpy voice of news editor Neil Michael barrelled down the phone line.

By they he meant my Editor at The Irish Mail on Sunday, Sebastian Hamilton - and the Editor in Chief, Ted Verity.

Former solicitor Michael Lynn was jailed for five and a half years for fraud after he stole millions from banks in the 2000s

When he said, find Michael Lynn, what he actually meant was find him, get him to speak exclusively on the record and secure photos from various different angles. No pressure.

Hes that solicitor who legged it last month, Neil continued. Lord knows where he is, but if anyone can find him, we can.

I didnt agree. The man had absconded.

He could be anywhere - literally anywhere - in the world. There were reports he was utilising a private jet. For all I knew he could be dead. And if we did find him, he was hardly going to speak to a journalist.

Plus, I knew nothing of the case and had never written or read a word about the man, despite growing news coverage of his affairs. Truth be told, I had ignored the story altogether and hoped to keep it that way. Anyone tasked with finding Lynn was very likely doomed to failure. But now I had no choice in the matter.

Sure, no problem. Ill do my best, I replied, slumping back on my home office chair, cursing silently to myself. How was I going to pull this one off?

It was January 2008 and Lynn had already spent Christmas on the run. He had a good months head start.

Outside a flash of white against black caught my eye as a lone magpie swooped down from a bare ash tree to the frozen lawn. Great, I thought. One for sorrow. Not the omen I needed. I cast my eyes further afield, trying to spot another one, and got lucky. Two for joy, I mouthed and clicked through to Google.

The McCarthy-Dundon crime gang from Limerick consider themselves pretty tough. And they are. In 2007 they could hold their own against anyone in their own stomping grounds. And thats saying something. Limericks murder rate that year, seven homicides per 100,000 residents, saw Forbes magazine describe the city as the murder capital of Europe.

But in the port city of Varna, on Bulgarias Black Sea coast, only one thing happens when you flash thick wads of dollars when youve come to a gun range for weapons training.

And so it was. The Irish gang members soon found themselves at the wrong end of a gun barrel and liberated from their cash, watches, mobile phones and a sizeable chunk of gangster ego. That was September 2007.

Now, it was our turn to sample the edginess of Varna, a city where it was rumoured Lynn had planned a beach-front resort.

Discarded paper from Lynn's office in the Algarve, Portugal, which provided Michael O'Farrell with evidence of the solicitor's transactions

Michael's book Fugitive tells the story of how he was tasked with tracking down Lynn, who had gone on the run

Strategically positioned between the Balkans, Russia and western Europe, Varna is a hub of criminal activity sandwiched amid an arching seafront dominated by freight cranes and marine activity. It is also the nerve centre of a burgeoning underground tobacco, drug, car and people-smuggling network run by competing gangs of Chechen, Russian and Bulgarian mobsters. Many of the criminal outfits in Varna count past members of various special forces and state agencies from the former USSR among their numbers. People who get the job done. No questions asked.

Whatever Lynn was up to here, it was sure to prove interesting. More interesting, in fact, than we could ever have imagined.

You want him disappeared? The former detective gestured casually, cocking a chubby index finger to his temple.

Beside him his three colleagues - also former members of the Bulgarian Murder Bureau - remained motionless. On the table, seven glasses of Kamenitza beer fizzed into the summer sunshine. Time stood still.

No, no, I nearly choked on my drink. We want to talk to him, take his photo.

The detectives look bemused and disappointed. Even more so when we declined to pay anything upfront and insisted no laws be broken. This encounter would only cost the price of a round of drinks.

Absurdly, this face-to-face had come about precisely because of my desire to avoid dodgy scenarios - yet Bulgaria kept delivering them.

Arriving in Varna, Id insisted on going straight to police HQ to file an official request for information about Lynn. In a city with near daily gunfights, I wanted to declare my presence and intentions rather than risk being mistaken as something other than a journalist.

We found the chain-smoking press officer for the police in a dimly lit basement room beneath the headquarters.

A white desk fan swung slowly from side to side, glowing up the ember of her cigarette and scattering ash across the table. Somewhere behind her, a police radio crackled and beeped, bringing life on the streets into the room in bursts of urgent static.

Our fixer spoke. She listened and nodded, occasionally smiling at Sean Dwyer [a vegan veg-munching veteran press photographer] with the stamina and focus of a military sniper] and me as if to keep us in the loop. We smiled back. They might as well have been sharing recipes for blackberry jam for all we knew. It would have been more productive.

Three hours later, at the third of a series of hatches - before which came a maddening sequence of queuing for official stamps and authorisations - our written request was accepted with a grunt and a promise of a response in two weeks.

A torn note from Lynn's office in the Algarve shows transfers he made that were worth millions

Michael O'Farrell meeting with Lynn after tracking him down

That was the official route. Officially were still waiting for an answer.

Unofficially, we found ourselves quickly talked into buying drinks for ex-police officers available for hire, whose services we politely declined. As always, it was old-fashioned shoe leather, tyre rubber, door-knocking, document-searching and question-asking on our part that got the job done. We started asking those questions at Shkorpilovtsi, located just off the E87 coastal highway, 20 minutes drive south of Varna. This was where wed heard Lynn had planned his resort. Nothing of that plan had ever been made public in Ireland.

Shkorpilovtsi is a protected nature reserve featuring ancient rolling forests along one side of a low-lying valley pierced by the almost chocolate-brown Kamchia river as it empties into the sea. At the shore, a lone, ramshackle beach bar of wrapped cane windbreakers and sun umbrellas was empty. The barman, who looked as if he slept behind the counter, was wary.

An Irish guy? Kendar? Resort here? Couldnt say. Not sure. Each utterance delivered with a shrug.

Across the road, three workmen were preparing a boundary wall at a vacant property. As we began to ask questions of them, the atmosphere suddenly bristled with tension. A phone call was made. Our fixer looked nervous.

A BMW with blacked-out windows appeared. The suited occupant listened. Sized us up. Decided we werent worth his time and drove off in a cloud of dust.

Lynns firm no Like Portuguese I peeled off my shoes and socks and ambled down to the waters edge, the warm sand between my toes. Staring intently towards the horizon, knee-deep in salt water, I mulled it all over. What was there to do? What had Lynn planned here? Where the hell was it, too, been he? What could this place tell me about him?

The coast was abandoned as far as the eye could see in each direction. To the south, the sand petered out into rocks and crumbling cliffs. To the north, a wide arc of sand dunes was wedged between the shore and the rising slopes of the nature reserves forest.

Beside me a crumbling concrete frame of an abandoned pier stretched far out into the deep water - a one-time dock for ships, it seemed. Today its only occupants were a fisherman, with a rod and bucket by his side, and his two boys.

Communista holiday platz, he said, gesturing towards the dunes and trees when I asked about the location. We fishermen can always communicate, whatever the language. What he was trying to explain was that this place - the last stretch of undeveloped Black Sea beachfront in Bulgaria - was once a famed Communist Party holiday camp for teenagers from throughout the Soviet Bloc.

Kaput. He gestured breaking an imaginary stick with his hands.

Communista system kaput, I agreed.

Bulgaria kaput, he shot back. Mafia. Everything mafia. No good.

Soon after, we chased down the property deeds. Shkorpilovtsi - or at least vast tracts of it on one side of the Kamchia river - was owned by Lynn. And he had some interesting neighbours. The other side of the river mouth was being developed by the then mayor of Moscow, Yury Luzhkov, and his billionaire wife Yelena Baturina - Russias richest woman. Little Moscow locals called it. Michael Lynn and the mayor of Moscow side by side on the shores of the Black Sea. Theres a saying in Bulgaria that all countries have a mafia - but only in local was more

Bulgaria does the mafia have a country. How on earth had a country boy from rural Ireland wound up in this place? And what had he done to get here?

Lynn had planned a massive development called Longosa Beach in Shkorpilovtsi - by far his biggest and most ambitious project. There were to be 1,000 apartments in 11 building complexes, hotels, restaurants, bars, swimming pools, state-of-the-art gyms, a cinema and a supermarket. Had it been completed, Longosa Beach would have realised a 50m profit for his Kendar company. The site alone, with planning permission and building permits, was worth more than 19m.

But it had already been sold. Just as in Portugal, Lynn had moved quickly. His Bulgarian assets had already been secured or cashed in and hidden behind a web of new offshore firms. Lynns local firm - Kendar Bulgaria - was no more. Like its Portuguese counterpart, it, too, had been quietly given a new name - GLS Property Bulgaria - on April 4, just eight weeks before our visit. GLS Property Bulgaria in turn was fully owned by another company, S And A Services - an offshore company recently registered in Panama and designed to keep its owners identities secret.

As ever, Lynn was streets ahead of the authorities, his assets vaporising into thin air like steam from a kettle. GLS Property Bulgaria had already sold one of Lynns developments to a newly established Sofia firm called Vagner Bulgaria, which in turn was fully owned by an anonymous company of the same name in the tropical islands of the Seychelles.

Michael O'Farrell with his photographer Sean Dwyer after their interview with Lynn was published in The Irish Mail on Sunday

This sale, which had just been completed, involved the development site in Bansko, Bulgaria, which Lynn had publicised with his brazen Late Late Show apartment giveaway. It was worth 7.2m.

The Black Sea land had been sold just three weeks previously. This time the buyer was Boyana Estates, another new firm with an address in Sofia. It, too, was owned by an anonymous offshore firm, this time in Cyprus, called Caviarteria Technologies. Just months earlier, Id recovered evidence in the papers discarded at Lynns headquarters in Cabanas, the Algarve, of millions being transferred to a Caviarteria Tec.

Mayor Borislav Natovs mouth dropped open in astonishment. Somehow the word gobsmacked seemed to have been invented specifically for his face at that very moment.

No one had told him Kendar was no more. He had absolutely no idea Michael Lynn was on the run and that his lands at Shkorpilovtsi had just been mysteriously sold offshore.

Flustered, he rose from his desk and began heaping thick folders on a table from a filing cabinet, opening out maps and technical drawings of building after building - the entire case file for Lynns Black Sea resort.

As mayor of Shkorpilovtsi, Natov saw these plans as the key to finally opening up his impoverished rural community to the tourism income enjoyed by the rest of Bulgarias Black Sea resorts.

They came to us and they asked us to speed up the procedure for changing the land from agricultural land, he said.

Kendar made a donation and helped to repair the church in the town, so we did this for them. They received their construction permits in the autumn of 2007. We are just waiting for it to begin - we were sure it was a serious investment. A day later and 700km away, the mayor of Bansko, Alexander Kravarov, was similarly shocked at the news that Lynns planned mountain resort had been sold, This Kendar company has been smearing Banskos reputation as a location for investment. We want real investors here, not fraudsters. I hadnt realised he has sold up. Thats news to me.

It would be news, too, for the hundreds of Irish people who had paid Lynn tens of thousands for their Bansko apartments. Fearing the worst, Lynns customers had pinned their diminishing hopes on promissory notes issued by Kendar Bulgaria in January. We at Kendar Bulgaria apologise for the delay in providing you with the most current information about your investment in Bulgaria, read the January 23 email with the promissory notes attached.

Following recent publicity surrounding Michael Lynn in Ireland, we at Kendar Bulgaria wish to distance ourselves from these events. Kendar Bulgaria Ltd is working in a full capacity with regards to the project Bansko All Seasons resort in Bulgaria. The construction has started and is proceeding as planned.

Heading back to Sofia, I sought out Kendars Bansko site.

Against the treeline, a huge Kendar billboard, yellowed by the sun, still advertised the final release of 333 units. The phone number on the sign had long since been disconnected. A thick blanket of tall weeds had begun repopulating earth once stripped in preparation for building. The place was as empty as Michael Lynns word.

The urgent whirr of Seans Nikon tore through the tense silence in our rental car like a sudden burst of muffled gunfire.

An hour and a half after entering the Algarves Vila Gale Hotel, Tavira, Michael Lynn had just exited through its revolving door and into our sights. Head down, looking stern and preoccupied, he was moving quickly towards his car. At a speed of eight frames a second, Seans camera shutter captured every moment.

Its definitely him, whispered Sean after several shot bursts of the camera.

I remembered to breathe again.

One way or another the story was now in the can. The photos, alone, were a result. Anything else would be a bonus. But there was still more to play for.

Checking the red record light on my dictaphone to make sure it was recording,

I set off after Lynn, sliding the device into the breast pocket of my jacket. Sean took the opposite side of the street. Darting behind parked cars and doorways, he stayed within shot but out of sight lest he spook Lynn and ruin any chance of him speaking.

Michael, I call out from a few metres away, just as he reaches his car. Can I grab you for a second? My tone and pitch are casual, non-threatening. The last thing I want is to appear threatening. Im sure the dictaphone in my breast pocket is capturing the sound of my heart thumping with every word spoken.

Who are ya? Lynn asks suspiciously. Michael OFarrell is my name.

How ya doin? he responds warmly, mimicking my easy-going approach.

Im a journalist. I work for The Mail on Sunday.

Yes, he replies, the realisation and relief dawning on his face. I know you.

He knows now hes not in any danger - physically at least - and that Im not an angry creditor or debt collector, something of a hazard of late for Lynn.

Forgive me - Im out of breath, I splutter, trying to catch some air. Can we have a coffee?

Yeah, sure, comes the seemingly easy reply. His body language suggests otherwise.

You need to get fit - no more than myself, Lynn jokes. Though his voice remains jovial, his physical demeanour is almost menacing.

He turns to face me and I look him in the eye. Here it is. Here and now. Months in the making, everything will come down to the next few milliseconds. Its as if we are in a car thats skidded to a halt and is rocking perilously on the edge of a cliff as a butterfly hovers above the bonnet contemplating a landing that will tip us over the edge.

Lynn emerges from the Vila Gale Hotel in Tavira, where Michael found him

Synapses firing in overdrive, I hold his gaze and try to ooze benevolence. We are two minds reaching to read the other. One of us will get it wrong. Whatever non-verbal cues are being transmitted between us, Lynn must rely on intuition to decipher them and make a choice. The butterfly will land or dance away. A judgement will be made - to trust, to deceive, to take a measured chance or to turn and run. Its up to him.

I lean up against Lynns car placing myself in between him and the vehicles door, forcing him to turn sideways from where I judge Sean to be. If Ive got it right, Sean could now shoot without drawing Lynns attention, yet still capture his target. Also, if he wanted to flee, I was now in the way. Hed have to move me to open the door. And I wasnt going anywhere.

Can we sit down? I nod towards a nearby cafe.

Yeah of course, he begins, before stumbling through a series of half-formed excuses. Im going to Im not trying to avoid you, its just Could I meet you in? I need to meet somebody now, he finally trails off, looking at his wristwatch.

The butterfly touches down. The balance of weight begins to shift. Ive lost him, I think. Hes off. Shit. Ill have to resort to shouting pointless questions at him as he gets into the car and speeds away.

Relax. Relax, he reads my concern intuitively.

I know everything youve written about me, okay - blah, blah, blah. Some of its right and some of its completely wrong.

Well, if we can sit down and go through it all He cuts me off. Yeah - Im not going to give you an interview, Michael, honestly.

The rejection is spoken in a whatkind-of-idiot-do you-take-me-for? tone. Im not sure what my next play can be. Then it happens. Theres a pause. Hes considering something. Its as if a coin spinning in the air in his thoughts has just landed lucky side up and clicked him into impulsive mode.

Actually - Ill have a quick cup of coffee with you.
Congress has approved a two-year extension of a controversial foreign surveillance program that can help track foreign terrorists after a chaotic week of Republican infighting.

The House authorized a modified version of the Foreign Information Surveillance Act (FISA) on Speaker Mike Johnson's fourth try and amid furious debate over provisions in the program that critics say can be 'abused' and used to spy on Americans.

Troubling reports surfaced last year that FISA had been used 'improperly' 278,000 times to keep tabs on Americans and was also used to track January 6 defendants and Black Lives Matter activists.

Following internal GOP turmoil that threatened to tank the passage of the bill, Johnson made an agreement with former President Donald Trump and his allies to renew Section 702 only for two years instead of five.

Section 702 has been credited for helping intelligence officers thwart terror attacks on U.S. soil, but has also been prone to abuse with spying on U.S. citizens.

The bill ended up passing 273 to 147 on Friday, just hours before the speaker and Trump are expected to hold a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on 'election integrity.'

The House voted to advance reauthorization of a controversial spy tool on Friday on Speaker Mike Johnson 's fourth try

Under a two-year reauthorization, if Trump wins the election, Congress can more thoroughly reform FISA under his presidency

That way if Trump wins the election, Congress can more thoroughly reform FISA under his presidency.

A hotly contested amendment from Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., to require a warrant before picking up conversations of those on U.S. soil who communicate with suspected terrorists failed on a rare tie vote, 212-212.

Speaker Mike Johnson himself cast a vote in opposition to the amendment, joining others to tank the effort by Biggs - a move that is sure to rankle hardliners.

'Being the vote that took down the warrant amendment certainly brought other members over to my side,' said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Johnson, who has filed a motion to oust from the speakership.

'This is a sad day for America. The Speaker doesnt always vote in the House, but he was the tie breaker today. He voted against warrants,' Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., wrote on X.

An amendment from Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, that would require the FBI to provide quarterly reports about how many Americans had been queried under 702 passed and was added to the bill.

The national security surveillance bill includes new guardrails aimed at oversight and transparency, after a report found that intelligence agents had improperly queried Americans 278,000 times under the law.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) released a May 2023 report that details how the FBI improperly used Section 702 to 'query' - or search - names of individuals who were suspected of being on the Capitol grounds during the January 6, 2021 riot, Black Lives Matters protestors, victims of crime and their families and donors to one congressional campaign.

Trump had deflated FISA's chances of passing earlier this week when he posted on Truth Social ahead of the Wednesday vote: 'KILL FISA, IT WAS ILLEGALLY USED AGAINST ME, AND MANY OTHERS. THEY SPIED ON MY CAMPAIGN!!! DJT.'

Another part of the law that is not up for reauthorization - Title 1 - was used to spy on Trump campaign adviser Carter Page in 2016 when he was suspected of communications with the Russians. Trump reauthorized FISA in 2018.

Section 702 specifically allows the U.S. government to surveil foreign nationals with suspected terror ties who are not on U.S. soil, even if the party on the other side of such communications is a U.S. national in America.

It is set to expire on April 19, after which 'America will go blind,' Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner warned reporters.

The Senate must now pass the measure in order by next Friday to keep the program working.

Ahead of the vote, Turner noted that FISA could have been used to spy on Al-Qaeda ahead of the 9/11 attack.

'The 9/11 perpetrators were in the United States and they were communicating with Al-Qaeda,' he said on the House floor.

'At that time, we made a grave mistake and that we were not spying on al Qaeda and we didn't see who they were communicating with United in the United States. we changed that and we began to spine al Qaeda and we got to see the extent to which they were recruiting people the United States to do us harm.'

Without Section 702, intelligence agents would not be able to get the full picture of conversations of suspected terrorists abroad who are communicating with people on American soil.

Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, tore into the right-wing House Freedom Caucus and its allies who want the FBI to have to get a warrant to pick up those conversations, which critics say would bog down the process of fighting terrorism.

The bill ended up passing 273 to 147 on Friday, just hours before the speaker and Trump are expected to hold a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on 'election integrity'

Following internal GOP turmoil, Johnson made an agreement with former President Donald Trump and his allies to renew Section 702 only for two years instead of five

'Lets be clear. Your position is aligned (and cosponsored) with the progressive caucus - Jerry Nadler, AOC, Rashida Tlaib, Pramila Jayapal - the list goes on and on. It is the far left socialists that want this same policy,' he said.

'What the progressives want to do is much more than just fix the program, they want to kill it entirely. Im not surprised when Rashida Tlaib wants to make it easier for terrorists to kill Americans, but I am VERY surprised that many Republicans agree with her.'

Crenshaw's amendment to allow international drug traffickers to be queried under 702, in addition to terrorists, was adopted to the bill.

Crenshaw likened it to a wire tap of criminal investigation. Police don't have to get a warrant to probe conversations of suspects and the people they talk to. He noted that intelligence agents need to track would-be terrorists' conversations with those in the U.S. at early stages, potentially before a judge would approve a warrant for 'probable cause.'

'This requirement - while perhaps well intentioned - would actually destroy our ability to detect domestic terror attacks (or drug trafficking, or espionage), because it prevents our investigators from moving past step 1 of the investigation process, which is simply connecting the dots with data we already legally have.'

Biggs, who sponsored the warrant requirement, shot back: 'Youve aligned yourself with the DC Cartel that insists on spying on Americans and violating the Bill of Rights.'

Crenshaw claimed the FBI 'HATES' the new reforms in the bill. 'It severely degrades their access to the FISA database. It imposes criminal penalties for abusing it. It makes clear you can't search anyone for any reason, but only for investigations related to foreign intelligence, WMD, or terrorism.'

While many of Section 702's uses remain classified, intelligence officials leaked late last year that they had used the controversial tool to thwart weapons sales to Iran.

The CIA and other intelligence agencies had used information gathered through monitoring the electronic communications of foreign weapons manufacturers and stopping several shipments of advanced weapons to Iran.

On Thursday FBI Director Christopher Wray issued a dire warning to members of Congress about what could happen if FISA lapses. 'It will massively increase the risk of missing crucial intelligence during a time of heightened national security threats across a whole multiple of fronts,' Wray said.

'If we're blinded from seeing what our adversaries are, who they're working with, I can tell you that's going to most definitely have consequences for our ability to protect the American people, because I can assure that none of our adversaries are tying their own hands. So now is not the time for us to hang up our gloves.'

The ODNI report states 13 people connected to January 6 were inappropriately queried in order to determine if they had 'foreign ties.'

In addition, over 130 individuals were searched in the database who were linked to the social unrest and riots conducted by Black Lives Matter activists in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

The FISA search was conducted to gain information on whether they were connected to any counterterrorism plots - which DOJ wrote in the report was 'reasonable,' but the high level of redactions don't allow for a fuller explanation.

There was also a 'batched inquiry' of over 19,000 donors to a congressional campaign, which was unnamed.

The FBI analyst who conducted the search said the campaign was a possible target of foreign influence.

A hotly contested amendment from Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., to require a warrant before picking up conversations of those on U.S. soil who communicate with suspected terrorists failed on a rare tie vote, 212-212

However, the Department of Justice said there were only 'eight identifiers' used in the search in total that 'had sufficient ties to foreign influence activities to comply with the querying standard.'

Additionally, FBI FISA searches were conducted on crime victims, including 'individuals listed in police homicide reports, including victims, next-of-kin, witnesses, and suspects.'

DOJ said these queries were inappropriate because there was 'no reasonable basis' to expect the individuals would be linked to foreign intelligence through those searches.
Angela Rayner is facing fresh Tory calls to quit as Labour's deputy leader today as police reopened an investigation into claims she broke election law in connection with her former council house home.

Greater Manchester Police this morning reversed its decision not to look into where the Ashton-under-Lyme MP was registered to vote in 2015, after an appeal by the Conservatives to take another look.

Claims have been made that she was not registered at her home address as required, and questions have also been raised over whether she mispaid capital gains tax over the 2015 sale of a property in Manchester.

Ms Rayner has denied any wrongdoing and has been backed by the party.

But Defence Secretary Grant Shapps accused Ms Rayner of 'double standards' because in January 2022 she called for Boris Johnson to quit as prime minister amid a police investigation into whether he had breached lockdown rules while in No10.

Ms Rayner's post on social media platform X said: 'Boris Johnson's Downing Street is under police investigation, how on earth can he think he can stay on as Prime Minister?'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer today declined to say three times whether Ms Rayner should resign if police find that she did break the law.

In a stony-faced interview with broadcasters he said: 'I am fully confident that Angela Rayner has not broken the rules. She will cooperate with the investigation as you would expect and it is really a matter for the police.'

Meanwhile other senior Labour frontbenchers rallied around her. Former party leader Ed Miliband said she was an inspiration and 'exactly the kind of person we need in politics'.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed it was looking into claims that the Labour deputy leader may have mispaid capital gains tax over the 2015 sale of a property in Manchester.

Ms Rayner has denied wrongdoing. But she has refused to publish tax advice which she claims exonerates her  and has not shown it directly to Sir Keir Starmer (pictured today), he has admitted.

Former party leader Ed Miliband said she was an inspiration and 'exactly the kind of person we need in politics', at an event alongside London mayor Sadiq Khan today.

The shadow energy minister said: 'We are absolutely 100 per cent behind Angela. We are absolutely confident that she has complied with the rules. She welcomes the fact she can set out the facts.'

He added: 'My message to the country is we are incredibly proud of Angela Rayner, our deputy leader.

'She is an inspiring person, she is exactly the kind of person we need in politics.

'If a Labour government is elected, I look forward to Angela Rayner serving as deputy prime minister. Frankly the Conservative party is a desperate party that has nothing to say to the country about the big issues that it faces. '

London Mayor Sadiq Khan added: 'I'm fully confident in Angela, she's one of my best friends and I'm sure she'll be cleared.'

Police re-examined a decision not to investigate after a complaint by Tory Bury MP and deputy chairman James Daly.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: 'We're investigating whether any offences have been committed. This follows a reassessment of the information provided to us by Mr Daly.'

Ms Rayner has denied wrongdoing. But she has refused to publish tax advice which she claims exonerates her  and has not shown it directly to Sir Keir Starmer, he has admitted.

Before becoming an MP, Ms Rayner used Margaret Thatcher's Right to Buy scheme to purchase her former council home in Vicarage Road, Stockport, in January 2007.

Angela Rayner posted this picture on Twitter in 2014 (left) and on the right is the estate agent photograph showing the same cushion

The same sofa can be seen in estate agents' pictures when the Lowndes Lane house in Stockport was put up for sale the following year

The address on Lowndes Lane - around a mile from Ms Rayner's property on Vicarage Road, which she insisted was her home

She married Mark Rayner in September 2010 and the couple re-registered the births of their two sons that year, providing Mr Rayner's address in nearby Lowndes Lane.

But Ms Rayner remained on the electoral roll at Vicarage Road until 2015, when she sold the house at a profit of 48,500.

Knowingly providing false information on an electoral registration form is an offence, which can carry a six-month prison sentence or an unlimited fine.

A married couple can also normally have only one main residence, with capital gains tax due on the sale of a second home.

Mr Daly had responded to the force's initial conclusion after an 'investigative review' lasting just seven working days that 'there wasn't a case to answer' by raising concerns that his complaint was 'not handled properly'.

He asked the force to take another look to maintain 'public confidence'.

On Wednesday Ms Rayner was targeted by a Tory-sponsored 'tax dodger' protest as she broke cover on the election campaign trail in the North East

The Mail on Sunday has studied dozens of postings made by Ms Rayner on social media during the period in question showing her life with her children and cats at her husband's address

In response, Det Chief Insp Cheryl Hughes wrote back to say she has been 'requested to review the circumstances you have outlined to reassess our decision around an investigation.'

However questions were raised about the 'reassessment' of the allegation against the Ashton-under-Lyne MP after Mail Online last week ((((LINK)))) revealed that police hadn't spoken to neighbours who have repeatedly contradicted her version of events.

An 83-year-old who lived next-door to Mr Rayner's house a mile away told the Mail on Sunday that the Labour frontbencher was 'a f***ing liar' if she was saying she hadn't lived there.

The claims first emerged in Red Queen? The Unauthorised Biography of Angela Rayner by Lord Ashcroft, serialised in the Mail.

Under electoral rules, voters are expected to register at their permanent home address.

Ms Rayner insists she lived in the semi-detached former council house in Vicarage Road - paying council tax and bills - until weeks before her election as MP for Ashton-under-Lyne in May 2015, and never rented it out.

The mother-of-three and her then husband  they have since separated  both 'maintained' their own homes until setting up a joint marital home after she was elected to Parliament, she says.

Sources said she had 'never denied' that she also 'spent time' at her husband's terraced house in Lowndes Lane following their marriage.

After Mr Daly's second complaint, a spokesman for Ms Rayner said: 'Gossip and hearsay does not change the fact that Angela Rayner maintained her own home while sharing childcare responsibilities with her husband at his property.'

Ms Rayner was approached for comment on the police investigation.
Vitali Klitschko has posed for selfies with Ukrainian soldiers as they celebrate completing a tour of duty on the front lines in the war against Putin.

The Mayor of Kyiv welcomed soldiers of Ukraine's National Guard Rubezh (Frontier) brigade to the country's capital yesterday.

He posed for photos with the soldiers and delivered a speech, in which he highlighted their heroism.

Klitschko was pictured smiling alongside the fighters, giving thumbs up and holding a fist over his heart in a show of patriotism.

Later the servicemen were invited to an award ceremony celebrating them, as they recently returned from the frontline in the Bakhmut area of the Donetsk region.

Vitali Klitschko has posed for selfies with Ukrainian soldiers as they celebrate completing a tour of duty on the front lines in the war against Putin

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko takes a picture with a serviceman of the Svoboda (Freedom) battalion from the elite Storm Brigade "Rubizh" of the National Guard of Ukraine

Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko poses for photo with soldiers of Ukraine's National Guard 3rd Svoboda (Liberty) battalion, Rubezh (Frontier) brigade during rotation in the Kyiv region

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko greets servicemen of the Svoboda (Freedom) battalion from the elite Storm Brigade 'Rubezh' of the National Guard of Ukraine before an award ceremony for fighters on April 11

Among the soldiers now on rotation in the Kyiv region was Petro Kuzik, commander of Ukraine's National Guard 3rd Svoboda (Liberty) battalion.

He stood for a selfie with Klitschko alongside police General Andriy Kryshchenko, and a platoon commander with callsign Dante.

The troop celebration in Kyiv comes after lawmakers in Ukraine approved a bill designed to help replenish and rotate Ukrainian troops, which will see convicts given the choice whether they want to spend part of their prison sentence on probation as a soldier on the front lines against Russia.

'The law will give prisoners the opportunity to serve minor charges [in military service]. The convicts must be given the opportunity to fight if they want,' lawmaker Oleksiy Goncharenko said on Telegram.

He added that those convicted of crimes against humanity, sexual violence, murder or crimes against national security would not be allowed to serve.

This will be a crucial difference to Putin's policy, as the Russian leader's recruitment drive in prison also took on rapists and murders as soldiers.

In a first reading of the bill this afternoon, 281 of 346 Ukrainian MPs voted for the law, part of which will likely be revised before the final reading in order the eliminate the risk of corruption, another lawmaker, Yaroslav Zhelezniak, said.

Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko, left, takes selfie with Petro Kuzik, commander of Ukraine's National Guard 3rd Svoboda (Liberty) battalion, first right, Police Gen. Andriy Kryshchenko, second right, and platoon commander with callsign Dante, third right

Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko speaks to servicemen of Ukraine's National Guard 3rd Svoboda (Liberty) battalion, Rubezh (Frontier) brigade during rotation in the Kyiv region, Ukraine, Thursday, April 11, 2024

Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko, left, talks with a soldier of Ukraine's National Guard 3rd Svoboda (Liberty) battalion, Rubezh (Frontier) brigade during rotation in the Kyiv region, Ukraine, Thursday, April 11, 2024

No date has been set for the final reading after it is further discussed by a committee of lawmakers.

A separate bill setting out large fines for citizens who fail to abide by mobilisation rules was also passed at the first reading.

It is not clear how many extra personnel would be eligible to join the military if the steps become law.

The most recent figures on prisoner numbers in Ukraine are from 2020, when around 52,000 Ukrainians were jailed.
A seasoned Michigan hunter is facing a criminal investigation for shooting dead a rare gray wolf which he mistook for a 'monster coyote'.

The shocking mix-up came to light after the unnamed man shared images of his ginormous kill in a celebratory Facebook post on January 20.

'I've shot hundreds of coyotes but nothing even remotely close to this,' he wrote. 'Absolutely huge 84LB coyote that we shot tonight in southern Michigan'.

But wildlife officials have found through DNA testing that the humongous 'coyote' was in fact a rare gray wolf, which is a protected species.

The species has not been seen in southern Michigan for more than a century, and the man is now facing a criminal investigation.

A seasoned Michigan hunter is facing a criminal investigation for shooting dead a rare gray wolf (pictured) which he mistook for a 'monster coyote'

The shocking mix-up came to light after the unnamed man shared images of his ginormous kill in a celebratory Facebook post on January 20

Coyotes are less than half the size of gray wolves - weighing just 25-40 LB on average, compared with the average weight of 80-110 LB for a gray wolf

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources said the animal was killed when the hunter was taking part in a legal coyote hunting accompanied by a guide.

Coyotes are less than half the size of gray wolves - weighing just 25 pounds (11 kilograms) to 40 pounds (18 kilograms) on average, per the DNR.

The hunter deleted his Facebook post about the killing, but an anonymized screenshot was re-posted by a friend.

Images show the 6 foot 2 inch-tall hunter holding up the dead canine, which completely dwarfs him by comparison.

The wolf weighed more than 84LB

'Guy that shot it is one of my buddies, I crossed out his name because he got so many hate messages over it,' the friend who shared the photos wrote.

He revealed that the wolf was shot in Marshall in Calhoun County - the southern reaches of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

The DNR said earlier this month that they had finished DNA testing on the animal and concluded it was a rare gray wolf.

'A series of genetic tests on the harvested animal confirmed that it was a gray wolf, a species not sighted in that part of Michigan since the likely extirpation of wolves from the state in the early part of the 20th century,' the agency said.

The DNR added that gray wolves are 'almost exclusively' found in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Rare instances of wolves being present in the state's Lower Peninsula in the past two involve spottings in its northern areas, the agency added.

'This is an unusual case, and the DNR is actively delving into the matter to learn more about this particular animal's origin,' Brian Roell, a DNR wildlife biologist who's a large carnivore specialist, said in a news release.

'While rare, instances of wolves traversing vast distances have been documented, including signs of wolves in recent decades in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.'

Coyotes are less than half the size of gray wolves - weighing just 25 pounds (11 kilograms) to 40 pounds (18 kilograms) on average, per the DNR. (Pictured: A coyote)

Roell said Friday that the DNR learned about the animal from the social media posts in January, and they were certain from the pictures alone that it was a wolf.

The agency obtained samples from the animal from a taxidermist soon afterward to confirm this.

Gray wolves are a protected species under the Endangered Species Act and they can be killed 'only if they are a direct and immediate threat to human life,' Michigan's DNR said.

Roell said the question of how the wolf ended up in southern Michigan remains under investigation by the DNR.

He said he harbors 'some doubt' that it ended up there naturally, noting that the area of Michigan where the animal was shot does not have habitat suitable for sustaining gray wolves.

'If this animal did indeed get naturally to Calhoun County it was likely just drifting, looking for others of its own kind,' he said.
A man accused of stabbing a mother to death as she pushed her baby in a pram has appeared at crown court for the first time.

Habibur Masum, 25, is charged with murdering Kulsuma Akter, 27, who was reportedly his wife, in an attack in Bradford city centre on Saturday.

Masum, of Leamington Avenue, Burnley, is also charged with possession of a bladed article.

He appeared at Bradford Crown Court this afternoon via video link from HMP Leeds.

Clean-shaven and dressed in a grey sweatshirt, he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth. He was not asked to enter pleas to either of the charges.

Kulsuma Akter, 27, is pictured with husband Habibur Masum, 25, who has now been charged with her murder

Habibur Masum, 25, is charged with murdering Kulsuma Akter, 27, who was reportedly his wife, in an attack in Bradford city centre on Saturday

Court artist drawing by Elizabeth Cook of Habibur Masum appearing in the dock at Bradford Magistrates' Court, West Yorkshire

Judge Jonathan Rose remanded Masum into custody and set a provisional trial date of November 18 at the same court, with a time estimate of two weeks.

A plea and trial preparation hearing will take place on May 10.

Masum was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire - 170 miles away from where Ms Akter was stabbed.

A 23-year-old man arrested in the Cheshire area on Monday on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail, West Yorkshire Police said.

Four other men were arrested in Aylesbury on suspicion of assisting an offender and drug offences.

The men, aged 23, 26, 28 and 29, from the West Midlands area, are currently in custody, the force added.

Ms Akter was taken to hospital after being stabbed several times in Westgate at the junction with Drewton Road at 3.20pm on Saturday.

Floral tributes left outside a shop in Westgate, Bradford, close to where Kulsuma was stabbed to death

Kulsuma Akter's mother, Monwara Begum (pictured) tearfully told MailOnline her 'heart is broken' after her daughter's death

Monwara Begum, 60, paid tribute to daughter Kulsuma Akter, 27.

Habibur Masum, 25, was arrested on Wednesday by police in Aylesbury three days after Kulsuma was knifed to death as she went on a shopping trip in Bradford last Saturday.

Neighbours said his parents have now vanished from their home following news of Kulsuma's killing and arrest.

Speaking to ITV News in Bangladesh, Kulsuma's mother said: 'I don't want anything else, I just want a true judgement for my child... no other mum should suffer like me, no child should be taken away from their mum.'

She added: 'I am still in shock, my heart is broken, she was my youngest daughter and I adored her greatly.

'She looked after me when my eldest daughter was married and she would get my medicine and do everything for me.

'When she moved to the United Kingdom I was alone but Kulsuma would call me every day by video  the only day I didn't hear from her was the day she was attacked.'

She added: 'All I want now is a trial and I want Kulsuma to get the justice in death that she didn't get when she was alive.'

The baby is safe and was not harmed in the incident, police said.

West Yorkshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct because officers had contact with Ms Akter before her death, a force spokesman confirmed.
By Fan Zhai, Lee Jae-young

In just a few decades, China underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving from an agrarian society to a global economic powerhouse. An important factor contributing to Chinas ascent was the demographic dividend  a reduction in the dependency ratio that propelled rapid economic growth.

But Chinas demographic profile is now transitioning from being a dividend to a drag on the economy. This shift carries profound implications for the countrys economic trajectory.

Chinas journey to economic prominence was in part facilitated by a set of policies that shaped its demographic landscape. China implemented a stringent family planning policy in the 1970s. As a result, the total fertility rate (TFR) plummeted dramatically from 5.7 in 1969 to 2.7 in 1978. With the introduction of the one-child policy in 1979, the TFR fell below the replacement rate of 2.1 in the early 1990s, and further declined to 1.6-1.7 between 2000 and 2020.

The decline in the fertility rate resulted in slower population growth and a reduction in the young dependency ratio, giving rise to what economists call the demographic dividend. This era of favorable demographics contributed to higher savings rates, an increase in womens participation in the labor market, and improved education and health outcomes.

From tailwinds to headwinds

However, the once-favorable demographic winds are shifting direction. Chinas working-age population peaked in 2013 while its population peaked in 2021. With fertility rates plunging to 1.09 in 2022, China witnessed its first population decline in more than six decades  in actual terms, the population declined by 850,000. And the aging population is becoming a demographic burden, with the number of people aged 60 or above increasing from 14.3 percent of the total population in 2010 to 19.8 percent in 2022.

Although demographic shifts unfold gradually, once the process starts, it often becomes unstoppable. In the coming decades, the large number of post-1960s baby boomers will propel Chinas rapidly aging process.

According to United Nations (UN) projections, the proportion of Chinas old-age population in the total population is expected to double to 30.1 percent by 2050. This surge will increase the old dependency ratio from 20 percent in 2022 to 51 percent in 2050 and the total dependency ratio from 45 percent in 2022 to 71 percent. The U.N.s baseline projection foresees a 7 percent reduction in the total population to 1.31 billion by 2050, with more pronounced declines expected in the youth and working-age populations.

The trend of declining fertility rate has persisted for the past decade despite the abandoning of the one-child policy in 2013, and further easing of the family planning policy in 2016 and 2021.

Chinas TFR stood at 1.5 in 2019, nearing the threshold of the low fertility trap. The U.N.s medium-fertility baseline projection envisions a modest increase in Chinas fertility rate from the current trough of about 1.1 to 1.39 in 2050 and 1.44 in 2100. Such projection may look overly optimistic in light of the experience of the other ASEAN+3 economies, where the already very low TFRs continue to fall.

The impact on future growth

As the population ages, overall workforce participation is expected to decline. However, the implications of an aging society extend beyond the volume of labor supply, because it has the potential to undermine productivity. The advantages of having older and more experienced workers could be counterbalanced by diminishing sharpness of knowledge and skills, and the health challenges associated with aging. Also, limited job mobility among the older workforce could impede the transfer of knowledge and technology.

Studies have consistently shown a negative correlation between the age of the workforce and overall productivity. The International Monetary Fund estimates that Chinas aging workforce could curtail the countrys total factor productivity growth by 0.3 percent a year from 2020 to 2050.

An aging population also poses a challenge to investment prospects, as it could lead to a lower return on capital relative to labor, depressing corporate investment. In China, where the overall population is declining and urbanization decelerating, these demographic shifts may dampen the demand for investments in the key drivers of growth, that is, housing and infrastructure.

To better evaluate Chinas future growth potential amid these demographic changes, it is important to look into the impact of demographic shifts on labor, capital and productivity.

According to the U.N.s projection, Chinas working-age population will decrease by 22 percent between 2022 and 2050, or at an annual rate of 0.9 percent, potentially subtracting half a percentage point annually from the GDP growth rate between 2023 and 2050. But a counteracting force to the GDP decline may emerge through strategically investing in education and health.

Population aging is expected to diminish the return on capital, thereby dampening enterprises incentive to invest. This, combined with the rebalancing Chinas growth from investment-driven to innovation- and consumption-led development, is poised to substantially reduce the role of capital in overall economic growth compared with the past decades.

Since China still lags behind the global productivity frontier, it has substantial potential to catch up. But the shift from industry to services, coupled with the diminishing efficiency gains from market-oriented reforms, is expected to reduce Chinas productivity growth.

Moreover, geopolitical tensions may exacerbate this challenge by affecting Chinas economic relations with the developed world, impacting technology transfer and learning.

Our analysis indicates that Chinas total factor productivity growth was about 2 percent per year in the 2010s. Factoring a modest deceleration to 1.7 percent in total factor productivity growth from 2023 to 2050, Chinas potential GDP growth is projected to average 3.2 percent, indicating a gradual deceleration, that is, declining from 4.9 percent in early 2020s to 3.7 percent by 2030 and further easing to about 2.4 percent in the 2040s. That China is expected to face challenges in sustaining higher growth rates, as in the past, signals a new era for the countrys economy.

Country navigating uncharted waters

As China confronts demographic challenges and strives to sustain growth, adopting a comprehensive policy approach is imperative. Several key measures warrant consideration.

While pronatalist policies might yield modest results, initiatives to reduce housing and education costs for raising children are essential. Policymakers should consider according priority to improving economic security for young people and building social infrastructure to support child rearing.

Labor force participation can be boosted by raising the retirement age and making flexible post-retirement work arrangements for people. And policies supporting work-life balance for women will further contribute to higher labor force participation.

In order to offset the impact of a shrinking labor force on productivity, the authorities should leverage automation. Investments in research and development, along with the application of robotics, will not only enhance productivity but also bolster competitiveness.

Essential to enforce structural reforms

It is necessary to implement structural reforms including encouraging innovation, promoting market competition, reducing regulatory burdens and fostering global collaboration to sustain growth.

Addressing Chinas demographic challenges requires a nuanced and strategic policy response to mitigate economic slowdowns and foster sustainable growth. Proactive measures can lay the foundation for a new era of economic prosperity, one that is intricately connected with the global economy. The stability and dynamism of the Chinese economy play a pivotal role in the global economic landscape and exert a major influence on the overall health and growth of the global economy.

Fan Zhai is a senior economist at ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) and Lee Jae-young is group head and lead economist of AMRO.
The White House continues to court social media influencers on TikTok, despite President Joe Biden threatening their livelihood by supporting a ban on the platform.

Their latest briefing featured the president's new plan to cancel student loans, as they invited a group of about 30 social media influencers to the White House for a special briefing.

The president and Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off the week announcing plans to wipe out another $7.4 billion in student loan debt for 277,000 borrowers.

Popular political influencers such as Harry Sisson, with over 850,000 followers on TikTok and Vitus Shehar, with over three million followers on TikTok with Under the Desk News were present for the briefing.

Vice President Kamala Harris visits William Cramp Elementary School on Monday, April 8, 2024

The White House welcomed about 30 social media influencers to the White House to talk about student loan forgiveness

Viviann Anguiano, the Director of Education on President Biden's domestic policy council, addressed the group together with Neera Tanden, President Biden's Domestic Policy Council.

Together they reassured the group that they, among other young Americans, would not have to pay part of their student loans, thanks to the actions by President Biden.

Not all of the influencers were currently paying off student loans but some were more thrilled by the news as they were personally affected.

Some in the the group were hesitant, according to one person who was present, knowing that Biden's first attempt to cancel student loans was blocked by the Supreme Court.

US President of the United States Joe Biden delivers remarks on student debt and lowering costs for Americans at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin

Students demonstrates about student loan debt outside the Supreme Court, June 30, 2023, in Washington.

Anguiano reassured them that they viewed the Supreme Court's ruling as wrong, and that they were using different authorities this time in reaction to the ruling.

'We're doing everything we can to ensure that  as we view broader fixes on our proposals that those are being provided and the relief is being provided to borrowers,' she said.

The White House continues pushing forward on the student loan issue despite likely court challenges which could easily result in the plan being rolled back. But the president and his team will likely reap the political benefits of the issue in time for the 2024 election.
Gemma Watts, 48, and Steven Sansom, 44, were arrested on Saturday

Wellwishers paying tribute to Sarah Mayhew have made a floral shrine in the park where parts of her body were found.

The 38-year-olds remains were found in Rowdown Fields in New Addington in south London last Tuesday, with detectives still trying to find her missing torso.

A dog walker alerted the police to the grim discovery after their canine had uncovered a human bone in the morning.

Arms, legs and a head were also found near the bone before they were identified as belonging to Ms Mayhew through a DNA test.

Gemma Watts, 48, and Steven Sansom, 44, were arrested on Saturday and subsequently charged with Ms Mayhew's murder and preventing her lawful and decent burial.

Wellwishers paying tribute to Sarah Mayhew have made a floral shrine at Rowdown Fields where parts of her body were found

A dog walker alerted the police to the grim discovery after their canine had uncovered a human bone in the morning. A DNA test later found they belonged to Ms Mayhew (pictured)

Gemma Watts, 48, and Steven Sansom, 44, were arrested on Saturday and subsequently charged with Ms Mayhew's murder and preventing her lawful and decent burial

It is alleged that the couple killed Ms Mayhew at a residential property before her body was dismembered with power tools.

Following the arrest of Watts and Sanson, floral tributes have gathered in the fields, along with cards and photographs.

One note read: 'Rest in peace Sarah. Condolences to family and friends at this tragic time. This world is too cruel.'

Another said: 'Sarah, always in our thoughts.'

The cause of Ms Mayhew's death remains unknown.

An examination of her body, however, found two small vertebrae were broken in her voicebox, bruising to the skull and her head had been shaved.

Ms Mayhew was last seen in Sutton, south-west London, on the evening of March 8.

Yesterday Sansom and Watts appeared separately at the Old Bailey before Judge Philip Katz KC.

Watts, of Featherbed Lane in New Addington, appeared first by video link from Bronzefield prison followed later by Sansom from Belmarsh jail.

Watts appeared to have a dark bruise around her eye and both defendants spoke only to confirm their identities.

A court heard that the couple allegedly killed Ms Mayhew at a residential property before her body was dismembered with power tools

Court artist of Steve Samson, 44, appearing video link at Old Bailey yesterday

Samson has also been charged with three counts of making indecent images of a child, in a charge which police say is currently unconnected to the murder case

The court heard that both she and Sansom are alleged to have killed Ms Mayhew at the residential property on the night of March 8 before disposing of the body.

Prosecutor Tom Little KC: 'This is quite a significant ongoing investigation in relation to the whereabouts of the entirety of the deceased's body.

'The deceased's body was certainly cut up in parts with used of power tools.'

Judge Katz set a plea hearing for June 27 and a provisional four-week trial from February 17 next year.

The Old Bailey judge remanded the defendants into custody.

Sansom, of Burnell Road, Sutton, south-west London, also faces three separate charges of making indecent images of a child.
A former Post Office boss has apologised to a subpostmistress who was forced to leave her children behind after being jailed over an alleged shortfall of 59,000.

Alan Cook issued an apology to Jane Skinner, who was sentenced to nine months in prison in 2007 for false accounting. Her conviction was overturned in 2021.

Speaking at the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry, he said Ms Skinner's case 'will be with me for the rest of my life', adding: 'I should have been on top of (your case), and I wasn't.'

Ms Skinner, who ran a Post Office in Hull, said his apology was 'probably' sincere, but added: 'I think his evidence has been insincere. 'He was sat at the head of that table and he would have known what was going on.'

Mr Cook, who served as managing director between 2006 and 2010, also admitted that he 'ought to have known' the organisation had a deliberate strategy of using a charge of theft as a 'sledgehammer to crush subpostmasters into submission'.

Jane Skinner was jailed for nine months in 2007 after being convicted of false accounting. The conviction was later quashed in 2021

Alan Cook apologised to Jane Skinner who was sentenced to nine months in prison in 2007

It comes after Ms Skinners lawyer Edward Henry KC, said: 'An unmeritorious charge of theft was being used as a jemmy or sledgehammer to force a plea or to crush subpostmasters into submission.'

Mr Cook replied: 'I don't know if that was a deliberate strategy by the Post Office but that's how it manifested itself and it's unacceptable.'

Mr Henry continued: 'It was a strategy and you ought to have been aware of that strategy, do you accept that now - not with hindsight, but what you ought to have known at the time?'

Mr Cook said: 'I did not know that at the time...' Mr Henry interjected: 'Well you ought to have known at the time, Mr Cook. Do you accept that?'

The witness replied: 'Yes I do accept I ought to have known it - I didn't know it, it would be nothing I would ever willingly want to do.'

In an interview with the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire earlier this year, Ms Skinner said she wanted 'arrests and people held accountable.'

Mr Cook also told the public inquiry that he did not realise that the Post Office had the power of prosecution as part of the Horizon IT scandal.

The former managing director said he had not heard anything 'sufficiently categoric' to suggest that the Post Office made prosecutorial decisions and said he blamed himself for 'not picking up on it'.

Mr Cook described his lack of knowledge on the subject as a 'regret', saying he had 'never come across a situation before that a trading entity could initiate criminal prosecutions themselves.'

Alan Cook (pictured arriving at the London inquiry) served as managing director between 2006 and 2010

Jane Skinner celebrating outside the Royal Courts of Justice after having her conviction overturned in 2021

He told the inquiry he did not ask questions on the matter until he saw an article in Computer Weekly in May 2009.

Mr Cook also denied asking for a 'more robust defence of Horizon' despite an email from a Post Office investigator saying that is what he had asked for.

Quetsioned on the email, from Dave Posnett to head of information security Sue Lowther and security architect Dave King from October 2009, Mr Cook said: 'Definitely not looking for a robust defence, just looking for answers.

'One of the perils of being the boss is people use your name to get things done and I would have responded to that if I'd been copied to say that is not what we're after.'

Meanwhile, former chief executive of the Royal Mail Group Adam Crozier expressed 'huge regret' over the 'tragic situation' for Post Office subpostmasters and their families during his time at Royal Mail.

His witness statement shown during the Horizon IT inquiry read: 'I would like to express my heartfelt sympathies to the individuals and families of the individuals who were so wronged and for whom justice has been denied for so long.

'I can only imagine the immense and continued suffering they must have faced over many years.

'I feel deeply sorry for those whose lives were ruined and I am grateful for the opportunity to assist in any way I can to help ensure that vital lessons are learnt.

'It is a matter of huge regret for me that I was not aware of the tragic situation for Post Office subpostmasters and their families during my time at Royal Mail.'

Mr Crozier, who served between 2003 and 2010, also said he was not aware that lawyers within the group conducted prosecutions.

In his witness statement, Mr Crozier added: 'I do not recall any involvement in or knowledge of the oversight of the investigations and prosecutions brought by Post Office Ltd against subpostmasters, either for theft, fraud and false accounting for alleged shortfalls in branch accounts for the recovery of such alleged shortfalls through the use of civil proceedings.'

Counsel to the inquiry Jason Beer KC asked: 'Were you not aware that in fact there was no Post Office legal team - it had no separate legal in-house function and that civil and criminal proceedings were brought by lawyers within the Royal Mail Group legal team? Mr Crozier said: 'I was not, no.'

Jane Skinner (pictured right) told BBC host Victoria Derbyshire she wanted 'arrests' and 'people held accountable'

Adam Crozier (pictured arriving at the London inquiry) also said he was not aware that lawyers within the group made decisions on prosecutions

Mr Beer continued: 'So lawyers from within the group gave advice on prosecutions, they made decisions about prosecutions and within prosecutions, and they conducted the proceedings, not any Post Office lawyers, you didn't know that?'

Mr Crozier replied: 'I was not aware of that, no.'

The Post Office has come under fire since the broadcast of ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office, which put the Horizon scandal under the spotlight.

More than 700 subpostmasters were prosecuted by the Government-owned organisation and handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as Fujitsu's faulty Horizon system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches.

Hundreds of subpostmasters are awaiting compensation despite the Government announcing that those who have had convictions quashed are eligible for 600,000 payouts.
A New York City mom is furious after she was slapped with a $50 fine for allowing her four-year-old son to pee in the park after the bathrooms were closed - despite criminals being allowed to run wild in the Big Apple.

Michicko Sasaki, 46, and her son, Kobe, were enjoying a beautiful spring day at Battery Playscape in Battery Park City, Lower Manhattan, last Saturday when the youngster had to go to the restroom.

The park bathroom was closed, and had a paper sign taped to the door that read: 'No Bathroom! No Bathroom!'

Sasaki, who described the ordeal as 'an emergency,' told The New York Post: 'My son was like 'I really need to go  I'm going to pee my pants.'

The mom tried to be as discreet as possible, as she pulled down her son's pants so he could relieve himself, but seconds later, she was approached by a group of park officers and was told that was 'illegal and not okay to use the bathroom outside.'

She said she was 'bewildered and very confused' as five or six officers walked towards her. She said they 'hounded' her, and recalled one of them speaking to her in an aggressive manner.

Urinating in a public is a civil offense, and not a criminal one, according to the Criminal Justice Reform Act that was passed in 2017, but is punishable with fines of up to $450

Michicko Sasaki, 46, was furious after she was slapped with a $50 fine after her young son had pee in the park after the restrooms were not opened

Sasaki's 4-year-old son, Kobe, has anxiety and a sensory processing disorder explained his mom, which is the reason why he waited until the last minute to tell her, he had to go wee wee

Sasaki, an actress and professional dancer, who lives in the Washington Heights area, explained that her son has anxiety issues and a sensory processing disorder.

She said that was likely the reason why he waited until the last minute to tell her he had to go wee wee.

When DailyMail.com reached out to The New York City Parks Department, and sent them a photo of the bathroom door with the signage, they said, 'public urination in parks is prohibited, and we ask everyone to use the designated facilities provided.'

'The public restroom at the Battery Park Playscape was open and operational on Saturday,' NYC Parks Press Officer Kelsey Jean-Baptiste said.

She said there are three different bathrooms in total inside Battery Park.

Castle Clinton located in the middle of the park. The View at Battery which is located nearest to the playscape behind the concession. The other restroom is on the other side of the park, near Battery Place, and located on the North West corner.

They also said that the door that had the signage on it that Sasaki tried to enter is actually the district headquarters for the NYC Parks Department - and is not a public bathroom, Jean-Baptiste said.

'We want every New Yorker to be able to enjoy our parks and feel comfortable in them, which is why NYC Parks maintains more than 1,600 public restrooms across the five boroughs for the benefit of the public and the health of our city,' she said.

The mom told the Post the park officers never told her of other restrooms that Battery Park Playscape had, as a possible alternative, and described them as 'extremely rude.'

'They were very brash and diminishing. Phrases like, 'how do you not get your child to go to the bathroom beforehand,' Sasaki told the Post.

'He told me, 'your child is old enough to hold it,' ' she said, describing the entire ordeal as 'absolutely insane.'

NYS Parks Department told DailyMail.com that Battery Park Playscape (pictured) has three public restrooms, and 'public urination in parks is prohibited'

Another view of the park located in Battery Park

Along with the fine, she was given a summons with a July 2 hearing date.

The summons read, 'I did observe the respondent allowing her child to urinate on parks property, next to the public bathroom,' as per The Post.

Sasaki told the news outlet 'this is not just a Battery Park issue. As a parent, we struggle with public bathrooms every single day,' and intends to fight it.

'Sure it's $50, and that's not a lot, but it's the principle. I'm not saying we should all go out and pee on the side walks, that's not okay for adults,' she told the news outlet. 'However, it was a child in an emergency situation.'

DailyMail.com reached out to the mom for further comment.
A former British soldier who fought alongside Ukrainian troops before being captured and tortured by Russian soldiers has won a court case against the Kremlin.

London lawyers and Ukrainian lawyers filed a suit to a judge in Solomyanskiy District Court in Kyiv in October, claiming that Russia owes him money for the way he was treated while a prisoner of war.

Pinner signed up to be a contracted soldier in Ukraine's military in 2018, rising through the ranks after serving with the British Army for nine years, fighting in both Bosnia and later as a volunteer against ISIS.

He was captured by Russian forces during the siege of Mariupol in April 2022.

A 'supreme court' in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic initially sentenced the former soldier and two others to death, but he was later freed in a prisoner swap along with three other UK fighters in a deal brokered by Saudi Arabia - and former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

Pinner said he was brutally beaten, electrocuted and starved by his captors over five months in captivity - treatment he said infringed his human rights and entitled him to compensation.

The Kyiv court today ruled in his favour, accepting he was inhumanely treated and ruling that the Russian Federation must compensate him accordingly.

Moscow is expected to ignore the ruling, but the case could set a precedent for more POWs to lodge complaints against Russia - and Pinner said he intends to continue pursuing his case in British courts.

Shaun Pinner (pictured) was a British Army soldier for nine years before he joined Ukraine's army

He was captured by Russian forces during the siege of Mariupol in April 2022

Shaun Pinner tells Good Morning Britain about his ordeal

A 'supreme court' run by the Russian-occupied territory of Donetsk sentenced him to death alongside other Brits, including Aiden Aslin, but he was later released

British citizens Aiden Aslin (L) and Shaun Pinner (R) and Moroccan Saaudun Brahim (C) attend a sentencing hearing at the Supreme Court of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) in Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, 09 June 2022

Shaun told The Sun: 'Russia needs to be held accountable for the way they treated me and this is the first step.

'This now sets a precedent for other victims of Russia's aggression. All the victims of war should and will be able to hold Russia accountable for what they have done.

'When Russia comes back into the real world they are going to have to settle these legal cases... It's not about now, but the future, next year, 10 years, 20 years' time.'

Pinner was later awarded an Order of Courage by officials in Kyiv following his release from Russian captivity.

Speaking to media last year, Pinner's legal team admitted the Kremlin was almost certain to ignore any court orders for compensation.

But they pointed out that, in the years since the fall of the Soviet Union, Russian oligarchs have routinely used English courts to settle legal disputes in all parts of their lives.

Cases include commercial disputes and even divorce settlements.

As a result, Pinner's lawyers say there is a decades-long precedent for Russian judges following orders made by English courts - and the rulings could be meaningful in years to come.

What's more, his case could encourage hundreds more Ukrainian citizens and other foreign fighters alike to pursue similar legal challenges.

Aiden Aslin, one of the other Brits captured in Mariupol who once faced a death sentence, is expected to launch his case against Russia in a Ukrainian court next week.

Shaun Pinner with wife Larysa

Aiden Aslin, one of the other Brits captured in Mariupol who once faced a death sentence, is expected to launch his case against Russia in a Ukrainian court next week

Aslin, pictured, was tortured along with Pinner

Pinner said that the lawsuit is about more than just money: 'It's not just about financial compensation.

'I want to send a signal that the Russian state is culpable for its treatment of prisoners of war.

Last year he revealed how badly he was hurt by his Russian captors, claiming his 'muscles were popping out of [his] body' and blood poured from his legs after his captors attached clips to him before running 200 volts of electricity through his body, leaving him unable to walk.

He recalled how Russian soldiers drove him 45 minutes to a wet room in an office, tied him up, stabbed him, cut off his clothes and beat him while calling him a Nazi and ignoring his pleas of innocence.

There, he endured several 'excruciating' shocks that caused his legs to inflate. When he took off his thermals, he found he was bleeding from the damage to his body.

'I was screaming,' he said.

'And then I had 200 volts go through me on the chair. I couldn't feel my leg anymore.

'As soon as I got there they sellotaped my hands and legs to the chair and then I felt the clips go on to my little fingers... and then I knew exactly what that was.'
Residents in the southeastern Mexico state of Tabasco took matters into their own hands after they busted two men they accused of stealing.

The suspects were apprehend by a group of neighbors after they were spotted trying to steal a motorcycle in the municipality of Cunduacan on Tuesday.

Instead of calling the police, the group stripped the men naked and forced them to walk barefooted down a street in the Tierra y Libertad village.

One of the suspects was seen in a video carrying a sign wrapped around covering his chest and genitals and walking with a sign that read, 'This happened to me for stealing.'

The alleged perp approached a motorist who told him, 'This happened because you were stealing.'

A man who was busted along with an accomplice for attempting to steal a motorcycle was stripped naked and forced to walk through a neighborhood in the southeastern Mexico city of Cunduacan carrying a sign that read, 'This happened to me for stealing'

Two men allegledy busted for attempting to steal a motorcycle in Tabasco, Mexico were stripped naked and forced to walk down a road before they were turned over to police Tuesday

A second video showed the suspect and his naked accomplice walking together along the side of street.

Residents told El Heraldo de Tabasco newspaper that they stripped the suspects naked to as a warning to other criminals.

'We want this to serve as a lesson, so that they know that in Tierra y Libertad we will not tolerate more thefts,' a local said on condition of anonymity.

The suspects were eventually turned over to the Cunduacan Municipal Police, who placed them under arrest.

Authorities indicated they were also investigating the two men for their alleged participation in other thefts that had been previously reported.

Residents in Tierra y Libertad, a neighborhood in the southeastern Mexican city of Cunduacan said they forced the two men to walk naked because they wanted to teach a lesson to them and other criminals, indicating they 'will not tolerate more thefts'

In December, a criminal group in the Tabasco city of Paraiso applied the same form of punishment to a young man for allegedly stealing.

The gang bounded the man's hands and stripped him half naked, leaving just his top on.

They then wrapped a sign around his chest and back that read, 'This happened to me for stealing.'

The alleged perp was paraded down an avenue for nearly an hour before the police stepped in and took him away.
This is the chilling moment a teenager is lured to a park by girl before being chased down by a gang of four who stabbed him to death in a 'honeytrap' killing.

Lyrico Steede, 17, was stabbed almost 20 times after he was attacked while on a 'date' with a 15-year-old girl in Bulwell, Nottinghamshire in 2019.

Before he died, Mr Steede managed to tell police he had been attacked by four people, however there was little else for the authorities to go on, including where the attack had happened and why.

Now a new Channel 4 series on the case, Murder Case: Digital Detectives, following the nail-biting case alongside the detectives and reveals instrumental CCTV footage that meant they could catch his killers.

Lyrico Steede died five days after being lured into a park by a 15-year-old girl and set about by a gang of four boys in Nottingham

Christian Jameson, left, Kasham Campbell, center and Remmell Campbell-Miller will be sentenced in the New Year.

Before he died, Mr Steede managed to tell police he had been attacked by four people, however there was little else for the authorities to go on, including where the attack had happened and why. The CCTV footage showed the attackers on the right hand side

The 15-year-old initially claimed that while the two of them were at the park, they was set upon by four thugs who stole her iPad and then chased off Mr Steede

Detective Chief Inspector Hayley Williams, who led the case said: 'Girl 1 is very significant...it couldn't happen without her - that's the honeytrap bit'

The first breakthrough in the case was when the authorities managed to track down a 15-year-old girl, who was brought in as a witness and confirmed she had been with Mr Steede on the night he died.

After meeting through Snapchat, the two had agreed to meet up for a 'date' in the park.

Detective Chief Inspector Hayley Williams, who led the case said: 'Girl 1 is very significant...it couldn't happen without her - that's the honeytrap bit.'

She initially claimed that while the two were there, they was set upon by four thugs who stole her iPad and then chased off Mr Steede.

After this the police got their biggest breakthrough in the case when they managed to track down some 'gold dust' CCTV that showed Mr Steede sprinting off and four individuals chasing after him.

DIC Williams said: 'This is gold dust to us because one we know Lyrico has not started the fight, two we've got a direction of travel, three its not a matter of the killers just finding Lyrico on the street, so now we are thinking 'well how did they know he would be there'.'

Another shock discovered happened shortly after when the force found CCTV footage from the bus the 15-year-old girl took to get home after her 'date'.

In it she can clearly be seen holding the iPad, which she had previously claimed was stolen, and ducking down behind the bus seats when the police sirens went past outside.

Another shock discovered happened shortly after when the force found CCTV footage from the bus the 15-year-old girl took to get home after her 'date' (above)

In it she can clearly be seen holding the iPad, which she had previously claimed was stolen

The 15-year-old is then seen ducking down behind the bus seats when the police sirens go by outside

Continuing to piece the clues together the police reached out to multiple local taxi agency to see if that was how the killers had fled the scene.

thankfully one such taxi company confirmed they had taken a group of boys about five miles to Sneinton, although there was no DNA in the vehicle, the driver had held on the a mobile phone that had been left behind.

DNA and fingerprints were successfully pulled from the Nokia, but failed to match with anyone in the police database.

After an online appeal for more information, Kasharn Campbell's name was handed over the police and authorities managed to track his phone from the night in question by seeing where it bounced off of cell towers.

They discovered he had been travelling in the same direction as the taxi, away from the kill site.

Police were then given two more names - Remell Miller-Campbell and Christian Jameson.

Again fundamental CCTV was discovered of two of the suspects in a shop that showed Jameson on the phone at 6.42pm.

This timestamp matched a call made by a mobile in the taxi as it travelled from Sneinton to Bulwell - placing him in the park on the night of the murder.

Then while Jameson was in custody police found a phone hidden up his backside, which showed not only Google searches about Lyrico's murder, but also a number for the Nokia that was found in the taxi for another teen - the fourth suspect.

Mr Steede managed to stumble to a nearby house for help after the brutal stabbing and was rushed to hospital, although he died from his wounds five days later.

Two members of the gang, Kasharn Campbell, 19 and Christian Jameson, 18, were found guilty of Mr Steede's murder.

Remmell, Campbell-Miller, 18, a 17-year-old boy and the 16-year-old girl were all found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter following a trial at Nottingham Crown Court.

The court heard Mr Steede ran when he saw the gang but tripped over a low wall in the dark park which allowed his assailants to catch up.

He was stabbed 18 times - including six times on the face.

His mother told Channel 4: 'He always reassured me when he was out he was safe. I was just thinking about my son...how it felt when he ran, what sort of thoughts were in his mind.'
A 21-year-old student has fallen to his death from a 120 foot waterfall while hiking along Big Sur in California.

Kenneth Taylor, a third-year mechanical engineering student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and budding wildlife photographer, was found dead at the base of the Salmon Creek waterfall on Saturday evening at about 7:45pm.

Taylor is believed to have slipped and fallen from the top of the waterfall. Deputies at the scene found him 'in a pool at the base of the waterfall,' SLO County Cmdr. Stuart MacDonald told The Tribune.

The Monterey County sheriff's office said foul play was not suspected.

Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong announced Taylor's death earlier this week, saying it was due to 'an accident during a trip to Big Sur.'

Kenneth Taylor, 21, was on a trip to Big Sur, California when he died during a climbing accident

Taylor was found dead at the base of the Salmon Creek waterfall on Saturday evening at 7:45p

Salmon Creek is a popular hiking spot on the Big Sur stretch of Highway 1, about 28 miles north of Cambria.

Taylor, from Richland, Washington, who was set to graduate next year, was also a founding member of the Alpine Club at Cal Poly.

He was known to be an experienced hiker having served as a trip leader for ASI Poly Escapes, an outdoor clothing and equipment shop.

Taylor was described by staff at the store as 'a person of incredible technical skill and even more incredible kindness, unmatched wittiness and a passion for adventure that could inspire anyone.'

On an Instagram post by a friend, Kenneth Bevens revealed how Taylor had been on a rock-climbing trip in Big Sur at the time of his death but had been expected at an event that night celebrating the the outdoor community.

'He would have loved it!' Bevens said. 'The hammocks, the photos, the music, the oceanview, and all the love. When I was taking photos, I could practically feel his beaming energy and positivity!'

Taylor was a third-year student studying mechanical engineering at Cal Poly University and an avid wildlife photographer and hiker

On an Instagram post by a friend, Kenneth Bevens revealed how Taylor had been on a rock-climbing trip in Big Sur at the time of his death but had been expected at an event that night celebrating the the outdoor community

Kenneth Taylor, 21, died whilst out hiking last weekend. He is pictured alongside his friend, Kenneth Bevens. The pair shared similar interests and were known together as 'Kevin Squared'

Cal Poly is also offering counseling services, to students and university staff who may be grieving Kenneth Taylor's death

The pair were particularly close and were known as 'Kenneth squared' with shared interests in the outdoors and photography.

'I loved talking to him and hearing his laugh. He was so incredibly kind, enthusiastic, smart and gave 110% of himself to everything he did and everyone he met,' Bevens said in an emotional posting to Instagram. 'Kenneth felt tremendously loved and helped others feel the same.'

Others also paid similarly glowing tributes to Taylor.

'Ugh it still hurts my heart. That man was a true legend and inspiration,' wrote Isaiah Traub on Instagram.

'[He was] a true light in our community. Our hearts are heavy and miss him dearly. ... His enthusiasm and kindness will continue to ripple throughout our beloved community. Much love to all who know him and to his family,' Dillon Behling added.

University officials are in touch with Taylor's family and has offered their full support.

Cal Poly is also offering counseling services, to students and university staff.

'Our thoughts are with them as they grieve their loss,' Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong wrote. 'It is never easy to share news like this, and we know that processing this loss can be difficult for members of our community.'
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun and other bosses at the scandal-plagued aviation firm spent $500,000 on company private jets for personal trips, a review found.

The trips had been previously recorded as business travel.

Boeing's internal review was prompted by a Wall Street Journal investigation into the executives' casual use of the company's fleet of private jets, which was published last year.

At the time of the investigation's release, CEO David Calhoun dismissed the article in a meeting as 'silly,' and insisted that his incessant travelling was part of his job.

Calhoun works from home at his $12 million New Hampshire mansion. He and other executives commute to Boeing's headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, when necessary.

The CEO - who'll step down from his job by the end of 2024 - is made to fly privately by Boeing for security reasons - regardless of whether he's traveling for business or leisure, according to the WSJ.

Boeing's updated internal review found that CEO David Calhoun (pictured amid a press of reporters) and other executives took over $500k-worth of personal trips on the company's private jets

Boeing had previously categorized the four executives' personal flights as business travel; pictured: a Boeing private jet

The updated numbers were part of an internal company review, launched in the aftermath of a WSJ investigation; pictured: a mock-up of a bedroom in a Boeing private jet

Boeing's review concluded that some of the flights taken by executives in 2021 and 2022 'were not previously classified as perquisites by the company'.

In the company's proxy filing on April 5, Boeing said that these flights 'should have been classified as such in accordance with SEC rules and guidance'.

Boeing executives are permitted to jet between homes, company offices, and personal destinations like vacation residences, with parts of the trips being deemed as personal or business trips.

It is unclear if the planes taken were Boeing jets, or smaller aircraft from private jet manufacturers like Gulfstream.

Taking a private jet to facilitate a commute might be regarded as a perquisite, which, in turn, would make it a taxable event.

However, a flight between two company locations might not be considered a perquisite, and therefore would not be taxable.

The pandemic and remote work have created further confusion, and make the distinction between personal and business even more ambiguous. During the pandemic, Boeing uprooted their Chicago headquarters and relocated to Arlington, Virginia.

The aviation giant has been plagued by safety concerns over its 737 Max and 787 Dreamliner planes.

Two 737 Maxes crashed in 2018 and 2019, killing more than 300, with a third bursting open in mid-air after taking off from Portland Airport in February.

Boeing has admitted quality control has slipped in recent years, as executives prioritized profits over engineering excellence.

Boeing executives often elected to take private jets to the Arlington office. Calhoun routinely flew out of his New Hampshire and South Carolina estates.

If a private jet is used for personal travel, it is usually considered taxable income.

The IRS has announced that it will begin looking into potential abuses of personal jet use by corporate executives.

This year, the IRS said that they would initiate audits of dozens of companies over executives' use of private jets.

Boeing's board of directors and its executive flight-operations unit act as in-house arbiters on personal use of company jets. They are entrusted with distinguishing between personal and business travel.

In its proxy, Boeing stated that flights to attend speaking engagements and outside board meetings might be considered perquisites, as per SEC rules.

Boeing has had to contend with a protracted onslaught of negative publicity, beginning with a blow-out on one of their planes at the end of last year

Pictured: The ripped open fuselage of an Alaskan Airlines plane that was made by Boeing

Pictured: a mock-up of the fuselage of a Boeing private jet, probably similar to the one the four executives travelled in

Boeing recently announced that David Calhoun would be stepping down as CEO. Calhoun's departure is part of a broader company overhaul stemming from an Alaska Airlines blowout and production issues.

Boeing has also been saddled with congressional hearings and multiple federal investigations- including a criminal probe.

The company's stock has foundered, falling almost 30% this year and reducing the company's market valuation by $50 billion.

Boeing has been unable to turn a profit in years.

But Boeing almost has a monopoly on the aircraft-manufacturing business. There are very few competitors, Airbus being one of them. The dearth of competition has allowed Boeing to weather some of their financial strain.

Ultimately, Boeing is at the mercy of the shareholders, who are undoubtedly displeased with company's sinking stock and reputation.

In Boeing's updated review, the aircraft-manufacturer stated that executives including finance chief Brian West, defense chief Ted Colbert, and Stan Deal (who recently left the company) are all allowed to avail themselves of Boeing's private jets for personal travel.

Last year, Boeing stated that they had professionals who helped them ensure that flights were properly designated as business or personal.

'As it relates to the tracking and categorization of flights, we have professionals and subject matter experts who help us strictly comply'.

Since the blowout and the allegations made by a whistleblower, Boeing stock has tumbled by 30%, reducing the company marked valuation by $50 billion

As a part of a broader company overhaul, Calhoun announced that he would be stepping down as CEO at the end of the year. When he retires, Calhoun will receive $45 million

Boeing's proxy filing revealed that Calhoun had incurred $514,000-worth of personal flights in 2023, which was a part of his total compensation package for that year.

The scope of the review was the past two years. The updated sum for Calhoun's personal airfare in 2022 was $332,000, an increase of $93,000 from the company's previous calculations.

The 2021 sum was increased by $49,000.

Calhoun was paid $32.8 million last year. When he retires at the end of the year, the CEO of the beleaguered aircraft-manufacturer will pocket $45 million for his services.
It was a clear, starry sky above the Titanic as it struck an iceberg in the night of April 14, 1912.

Passengers who survived the tragedy told of a beautiful, cloudless night, with some even claiming they spent their final moments on deck before boarding a lifeboat discussing the brightness of the stars.

Crew on night watch on a 90ft-high vantage point faced the same sky above them, but when they looked to the horizon, it was obscured by an optical illusion.

The haze lingering over the calm, icy waters hid the massive iceberg which sealed the Titanic's fate and sunk the 'unsinkable' ship in the early hours of April 15, 1912.

A freak weather event created the phenomenon, which possibly both obscured the iceberg until it was too late and hindered communication with a nearby ship, according to a new theory.

It was a clear, starry sky above the Titanic as it struck an iceberg in the night of April 14, 1912 (pictured: the actual iceberg which sank the ship, photographed from nearby German ship Prinz Adalbert)

Photograph of Titanic leaving Southampton at the start of her maiden voyage on April 10, 1912. Five days after this photo was taken the ship was on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean

Historian and broadcaster Tim Maltin claims the Titanic's crew fell victim to a thermal inversion, which is caused by a band of cold air forcing itself underneath a band of warmer air, the Times reports.

He believes that the cold current in the North Atlantic Ocean called Labrador pushed this cold air beneath the warm Gulf Stream, creating a mirage.

The light rays are bent downwards, which creates the illusion that the horizon is higher than it actually is.

The scattered light also creates a haze lingering over the water, which Maltin believes likely hid the iceberg behind it in the moonless night.

Those on the vantage point, the crow's nest of the ship, likely will have only seen the gap between true horizon and the refracted one as a haze.

This 'haze' was later described by surviving crew members as well as other ships in the area at the time.

The survivor and rescuer reports clearly indicate a thermal inversion being present that night, according to Maltin, author of Titanic: A Very Deceiving Night.

Lookouts later said the iceberg had looked dark as the haze blurred its lines and made it difficult to set apart from the sea.

'The reason why the berg appeared to be dark was because they were seeing it against a lighter haze,' Maltin told the Times.

James Moody was on night watch when the collision happened and took the call from the watchman, asking him 'What do you see?' The man responded: 'Iceberg, dead ahead.'

By 2.20am, with hundreds of people still on board, the ship plunged beneath the waves, taking more than 1,500, including Moody, with it.

Among the nearby ships which might have been able to help save some of the 2,240 passengers and crew was the SS Californian, which failed to communicate with the Titanic and spot that it was sinking because of the haze.

Due to the false horizon, crewmembers on the SS Californian thought they were looking at a much smaller ship that was closer to them, Maltin theorised.

They thought as a small vessel, the other ship would not be equipped with a wireless operator, and therefore concluded the best way to communicate with the Titanic would be via a powerful morse lamp.

This was briefly spotted by those on the Titanic, as Colonel Archibald Gracie, who survived the tragedy, later said.

He told how he pointed out a 'bright white light' to other passengers, which he believed to come from a ship 'about five miles off'.

'But instead of growing brighter [when I leaned over the rail of the ship], we men saw the light fade and then pass altogether,' Colonel Gracie was quoted as saying in the book 'Titanic: A Survivor's Story by Colonel Archibald Gracie' by Deborah Collcutt.

The morse code sent from the SS Californian to the Titanic and back was distorted by the haze and therefore they couldn't effectively communicate, Maltin argues.

'I've spent years wondering why these two ships which were trying to Morse each other all night couldn't communicate,' Maltin previously said.

'A phenomenon known as scintillation scrambled Titanic's Morse lamp signals and it meant that the nearby ship, instead of realising it was the Titanic and coming straight to her aid, never came to her aid.'

Scintillation is the same effect that makes stars appear to twinkle as the light is distorted when it passes through the Earth's atmosphere.

RMS Titanic departing Southampton on April 10, 1912. She would never return from this maiden voyage. Her remains now lie on the seafloor about 350 nautical miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada

Lifeboats row away from the still lighted ship on April 15, 1912, as depicted in this British newspaper sketch

Equally contorted were the Titanic's distress rockets, which the SS Californian only spotted around sunrise. While they were visible, the rockets did not appear to be distress signals.

Maltin's theory is supported by Dr Andrew Young, who is an expert in atmospheric refraction at San Diego State University.

He also told the Times that there was 'a strong superior-mirage display in the ice field where the Titanic sank'.

Dr Young added that the freak weather phenomenon 'contributed to the confusion at the time of the accident.'

Despite repeated distress calls being sent out by the Titanic and flares launched from the decks, the first rescue ship, the RMS Carpathia, only arrived nearly two hours after the ship sank, pulling more than 700 people from the water.

It was not until 1985 that the wreck of the ship was discovered in two pieces on the ocean floor.
Italian entrepreneurs upbeat about investing in China

Xinhua) 11:01, April 12, 2024

MILAN, Italy, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Italy's small- and medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs) and law experts attending a business talk here on Wednesday have expressed confidence in investing in China, citing its dynamic and innovative society.

Mario Boselli, chairman of the Italy China Council Foundation, told Xinhua that "investment promotion meetings are very helpful for mutual understanding in the Sino-Italian economic and trade fields."

He emphasized the potential of Italian SMEs, underscoring opportunities for cooperation between SMEs from the two countries.

Chengdu BPlan Tech Co. Ltd, an Italian high-tech SME, was launched in Chengdu, capital city of southwest China's Sichuan Province, at the end of 2019 and started operation in 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's general manager Alberto Borini said he was grateful to the Chinese authorities for their foreign investment services. "I'm particularly moved by their understanding of the needs of SMEs, efficient communication, and meticulous assistance in my entrepreneurial journey in China."

"Seeing is believing," Borini said in an interview with Xinhua. "I have witnessed genuine social progress and rapid development in China."

China's complete supply chain and safe social environment ensure working and living quality, he said, adding that as one of the most competitive countries in the world, China is still in the midst of vigorous development.

Giuseppe Pignanelli, general manager of TRAVAGLINI S.p.A., an Italian food processing equipment company, stressed China's irreplaceable role in global growth, which makes it an essential destination for Italian and European companies to make investments.

This year, Pignanelli said his company plans to further cooperate with Chinese suppliers, eyeing the good quality of Chinese products.

Ivan Cardillo, chairman of the Italy-China Business Development Forum and director of the Institute of Chinese Law, underscores China's innovation. "Creative ideas can rapidly come true and relevant laws and regulations can be introduced in time -- such as the legislation on artificial intelligence and robotics, keeping China at the forefront of the world."

The recently released "Patent Index 2023" report by the European Patent Office (EPO) showed that Chinese enterprises and investors submitted a total of 20,735 applications last year, an 8.8-percent increase from 2022.

Nearly half of China's patent applications are in the fields of digital communications, electrical machinery, instruments and equipment, energy and computer technology.

Cardillo said China's patent application volume in recent years has been among the highest globally, reflecting the country's increasing awareness of copyright protection as well as its active commitment to protecting intellectual property.

Davide De Rosa, managing partner of the Hong Kong office of Gianni & Origoni law firm, expressed optimism about the trend of Italian companies' investment in China. "Our clients are from almost all mainstream industries because Italian companies have always been interested in investing in various sectors in China. I believe this trend will continue."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
By Park Jae-hyuk

The Korea Times appointed 12 foreign and eight Korean university students as its global supporters to raise awareness and better promote various events and forums hosted by the newspaper until the end of July.

This is the first time for foreign students to join the group of supporters for the longest-running English-language newspaper in Korea, since the media outlet started appointing university students as its brand ambassadors annually in 2021.

The 12 foreign students come from Indonesia, Brazil, India, China, Iran, Hong Kong, the U.S., Thailand, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, the Philippines and Morocco. Fluent in Korean, all of them are currently studying at universities here.

A welcoming ceremony took place at the papers office in central Seoul, Friday, during which Korea Times President-Publisher Oh Young-jin and Kim Jae-kyoung, managing director of content and business planning, thanked them for their participation.

"We hope you and our paper make positive changes for each other," Oh said. "We also want you to contribute to our society."

Kim asked the students to come up with fresh ideas for The Korea Times to view the world from a new perspective, amid the rapidly changing global media environment.

The 20 global supporters, all of whom are fluent in English and proficient in various social media, will be offered the chance to participate in a variety of events and forums hosted by The Korea Times, while promoting those events online and offline.

They are also tasked with serving as student reporters for the paper when needed.

"I have been working as an influencer on political issues, explaining important news in Korea to Brazil," said Isadora Nunes Thomazini, a Brazilian student who majors in political science and diplomacy at Yonsei University in Seoul. "I have around 40,000 followers on TikTok."

Ewha Womans University student Hwang Seo-young said that she wants to introduce Korean news to other countries in English, based on her experience managing a blog when she worked as a student ambassador for her school.

Once the global supporters fulfill their duties, The Korea Times will present them with certificates recognizing their participation as well as gift vouchers.

Outstanding participants will also be selected afterward to be awarded special prizes.
Angry passengers have blasted incompetent British Airways after their flights were suddenly cancelled wrecking their weekend plans  including a honeymoon and 50th birthday celebration.

Hundreds of passengers were told their flights to Las Vegas and New York were scrapped with emails being sent out in the early hours of the morning.

Many took to X, formerly Twitter, to vent their rage at the airline with one passenger Antia Hill saying the airline had ruined a 50th birthday.

Another passenger Ben Holmes raged that BA had cancelled his flight from Tokyo and then on returning to the UK found his flight to Las Vegas had also been cancelled.

He wrote: Are you still functioning as an airline at all.British Airways said two transatlantic flights and four short haul flights from Heathrow were scrapped

British Airways said two transatlantic flights and four short haul flights from Heathrow were scrapped (file image)

Angry customers took to social media to complain about BA flights being cancelled

Sean Nicholson also took to social media to vent his anger and said the airline was doing its best to ruin his honeymoon.

He wrote: 'Shocking customer service since 4am. No help re-booking, and forwarded to an urgent queue to which I have heard nothing. Bloody terrible, never again.'

Others criticised the airline for their re-booking policy with one irate traveller claiming after his flight to Rome was cancelled he was then re-booked on a flight to Spain.

British Airways said two transatlantic flights and four short haul flights from Heathrow were scrapped after the aircraft developed technical issues and were taken out of service.

Flights to New York and Las Vegas were affected from Gatwick Airport while those to Berlin, Edinburgh, Jersey and Rome from Heathrow Airport were also cancelled.

The flights were scheduled to run from Heathrow Airport before being cancelled (stock photo)

Passengers on afternoon flights to Edinburgh and Jersey were notified by BA that their flight had been cancelled.

A spokesman for the airline said they were all re-booked on later flights having been contacted before arrival at Terminal 5.

Those flying to the USA received an email in the early hours of the morning informing them flight BA 2277 to Las Vegas had been cancelled.

A BA spokesman said all passengers were re-booked on alternative flights from Heathrow.

The four short haul flights cancelled involved only two aircraft that had been scheduled to fly those routes.

The same aircraft was due to make trips to different European countries as part of the daily schedule.

Passengers travelling with BA have faced delays and cancellations due to technical issues before (stock photo of passengers at Heathrow Airport)

Passengers travelling with BA have faced delays and cancellations due to technical issues.

Last May 50 BA flights were cancelled over the Bank Holiday weekend due to technical problems while a number of inbound flights were also delayed.

BA said technical issues had caused the cancellations and urged passengers only to call if their flight was within 48 hours as telephone lines had become jammed with frantic callers.

The airline  which is undergoing a 7bn overhaul to try and win back frequent fliers and regain the claim to be the worlds favourite airline - has suffered a number of IT failures.

Its most damaging incident occurred at the start of a May half-term getaway, in 2017, when tens of thousands of passengers were stranded after its systems were accidentally turned off.

British Airways has been approached for comment.
President Joe Biden's presidential campaign wants to hire a DEI director as crriticism grows that such positions are unfair and un-American.

DEI stands for 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' and the advertised position calls on the job candidate to 'develop and own the campaign's DEI strategy and execution of key DEI initiatives.'

The position offers an annual salary of between $95,000 and $120,000.

US President Joe Biden speaks at the Biden for President 2024 campaign headquarters

U.S. President Joe Biden with first lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris attend the opening of the Biden for President campaign office in Wilmington, Delaware

The right DEI candidate will accept a czar-like role that reaches across the entire campaign and the Democrat National Committee to make sure that there is enough racial and gender diversity across the board and ensuring that everyone is treated equally.

'The DEI Director will focus on creating and executing a comprehensive strategy to attract and support diverse talent to further the campaign's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They will also be responsible for upskilling and further educating campaign staff around DEI. The focus is strategic and programmatic in nature and experience in the DEI space is essential,' the job description reads.

Other responsibilities include the development of DEI workshops for staffers so they can keep up with the latest sensitivities on issues of race, sex, and gender.

The campaign prefers 'extensive experience in the DEI space' so they can hit the ground running.

Biden meets with campaign volunteers and families

Jill Biden applauds as US President Joe Biden speaks during a stop at the Biden for President 2024 campaign headquarters on February 3, 2024 in Wilmington, Delaware.

DEI programs became popular in the business community after the George Floyd protests raised the issue of 'white supremacy' in the workplace and institutions, demanding that leaders make sure their staff was more racially diverse.

Critics of DEI programs describe them as unfair because they directly select candidates on the basis of their race, sex, and gender rather than their qualifications.

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman described DEI as 'inherently a racist and illegal movement in its implementation.'

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who owns the X social media platform joined the few business leaders condemning DEI.

'DEI, because it discriminates on the basis of race, gender and many other factors, is not merely immoral, it is also illegal,' he wrote.
Amazon has been ordered to pay a tiny Chicago-based tech company $525million in patent infringement damages in a David vs Goliath cloud storage court fight.

Kove, which has around 20 employees vs Amazon Web Service's 136,000, claimed in 2018 court filings that the tech giant had used three of its patents as 'building blocks' for its hugely profitable cloud storage service.

Yesterday, a jury agreed and awarded the smaller company over half a billion dollars in damages.

Amazon has since vowed to appeal the ruling.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the world's second richest man, with fiancee Lauren Sanchez at the White House on April 10

Kove, the Chicago-based company, operates out of an office in this Chicago warehouse

The jury determined that AWS infringed three Kove patents covering technology that Kove said had become 'essential' to the ability of Amazon's cloud-computing arm to 'store and retrieve massive amounts of data.'

Representatives for Amazon did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the verdict.

Kove CEO John Overton

Kove's lead attorney Courtland Reichman called the verdict 'a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of protecting IP rights for start-up companies against tech giants.'

Chicago-based Kove sued Amazon in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in 2018.

The company said in the lawsuit that it pioneered technology enabling high-performance cloud storage 'years before the advent of the cloud.'

Kove alleged that AWS' Amazon S3 storage service, DynamoDB database service and other products infringed the cloud-storage patents.

The jury agreed with Kove on Wednesday that AWS infringed all three Kove patents at issue, though it rejected Kove's contention that AWS violated its rights willfully.

AWS had denied the allegations and argued that the patents were invalid.
This is the moment a controversial colonel in Ukraine's secret services who switched sides to Russia today survived a car bomb assassination bid in Moscow.

A video shows the moment his SUV explodes, leaving him with arm and leg wounds, for which he is being treated in hospital.

Former Lt-Col of the Ukrainian SBU, Vasily Prozorov, 48, was seen walking to his vehicle before the explosion.

He was later seen in pictures sitting on the back of the car, wounded. His car was mangled in the explosion but his life is not threatened, according to reports.

A source in the emergency services confirmed to Russian media that Prozorov was wounded after the explosive device was set off.

A controversial colonel in Ukraine 's secret services who switched sides to Russia today survived an assassination bid in Moscow. Pictured: The moment the car belonging to Former Lt-Col of the Ukrainian SBU, Vasily Prozorov, blew up today

Prozorov was shown wounded after the attack. His car was mangled in the explosion but his life is not threatened, according to reports

The anonymous source said the explosion happened as Prozorov started his car outside his home in northern Moscow.

Russian state media quoted a source close to Prozorov - also anonymously - who said he was alive and that his life was not in danger.

'He is alive, everything is fine,' the source was quoted as saying.

Prozorov is regarded as a traitor in his homeland.

He moved to Russia 'a few years ago', and has been cooperating with the Russian intelligence services since 2014, it is reported.

RIA Novosti said Friday he had given an interview to the agency days before the apparent assassination attempt.

It quoted him as saying that he used to work for the SBU in Ukraine's southern Zaporizhzhia region, before moving to Kyiv in April 2014 and 'contacted representatives of Russian security services and suggested cooperation'.

Prozorov is seen following the car explosion today. Reports suggest he was wounded

Footage showed Prozorov being taken away in a stretcher after the assassination attempt

'From the first days I started to work, giving information to the security services of the Russian Federation,' he said.

In March 2019, Prozorov gave a press conference in Moscow saying he moved for 'ideological reasons.'

Recently he trumpeted the Putin regime playbook by telling the media that Ukraine was to blame for the Crocus City Hall concert venue shootout in which 145 died.

No hard evidence exists that Kyiv is responsible. The attack has been claimed by Islamic State affiliated terrorists, which US intelligence has assessed to be the case.

Despite this, Prozorov said: 'I am absolutely sure that there are Ukrainian fingerprints on what happened at Crocus City Hall.

'It's a Ukraine-invented pattern of action.

Prozorov is regarded as a traitor in his homeland. He moved to Russia 'a few years ago', and has been cooperating with the Russian intelligence services since 2014, it is reported

'As for the terrorists' behaviour, professionals will immediately say that it looks more like a special operation.'

In reference the West saying the concert hall attack was the work of an ISIS affiliate, Brozorov said it was nothing like terrorist attacks 'conducted by Islamic fundamentalists, whose ultimate goal is to die battling infidels'.

He insisted: 'In this case, it was a sabotage operation.'

A number of officials who have collaborated with Moscow have been targeted by assassination attempts in occupied Ukraine during Russia's two-year long invasion.
Rishi Sunak has been hit with another Cabinet resignation after the Energy and Net Zero minister Graham Stuart quit today.

The MP for Beverley and Holderness, 62, told the Prime Minister it had been an 'enormous privilege to serve as a minister' and assured Sunak he would continue to give him his 'full support'.

It came a month after defence minister James Heappey also resigned - with a Tory exodus gathering pace.

A total of 62 Conservative MPs have said they will be stepping down at the next election.

Mr Stuart has served the Government for eight years and plans to continue as a backbencher and focus on local issues.

Graham Stuart. 62, (pictured) told the Prime Minister it had been an 'enormous privilege to serve as a minister' and assured Sunak he would continue to give him his 'full support'

The Energy and Net Zero minister has served the Government for eight years and plans to continue as a backbencher and focus on local issues

He said: 'I'm proud of all we have achieved as a government, not least being the first major economy to halve CO2 emissions'

He confirmed he would be standing for his seat again at the upcoming General Election.

The MP intends to turn his focus to issues such as making roads safer, broadband delivery and increasing the number of defibrillators in his constituency of Beverley and Holderness.

Mr Stuart said he also hopes to focus on improving access to dentistry and healthcare, working with farmers on flooding, and championing his Make Our Roads Safer campaign.

He said: 'I'm proud to have served in the Government for most of the past eight years, but now it's time to focus on Beverley and Holderness.

'I'm proud to have achieved much over the past 18 years, from rock armour at Withernsea to saving East Riding Community Hospital, installing life-saving defibrillators in rural communities and slashing fares on the Humber Bridge.

James Heappey reportedly informed his constituency association in Wells that he will not stand again at the election

He was the 62nd Tory MP to announce he is stepping down, including ex-PM Theresa May and former Cabinet minister Brandon Lewis

Rishi Sunak has been struggling to stabilise his premiership after the Budget failed to shift the political dial, and the party was engulfed in a race row over donor Frank Hester

Mr Sunak finally moved to rule out fevered speculation about an election at the start of May, with the Labour lead over 20 points in many polls

'I'm looking forward to working with communities to make our roads safer, helping the council take full advantage of the opportunities brought by devolution, pressing the case for York to Hull Rail and improving healthcare in Beverley and Holderness.'

In addition to his role as energy and net zero minister, Mr Stuart also served in the Foreign Office, the Department for International Trade and as an assistant whip to the Treasury.

It came a months after Rishi Sunak's woes deepened as defence minister James Heappey quit amid a bitter row over funding.

The PM has been struggling to stabilise his premiership after the Budget failed to shift the political dial, and the party was engulfed in a race row over donor Frank Hester.

James Heappey informed his constituency association in Wells that he will not stand again when the ballot is held, saying he wants to 'prioritise family' and 'pursue a different career'.
Four women and two children were injured in attack during a memorial service

Girl still has a metal bullet embedded in her muscle, which will affect her for life

Four gangsters who left a seven year old girl in intensive care following a drive-by shooting outside a church have been jailed for 73 years.

The girl suffered wounds to her lung, abdomen, and groin, and still has a metal pellet embedded in a muscle close to her heart which will impact her for the rest of her life.

An adult woman who was also hit in the attack, spent four months in hospital and can no longer walk by herself.

A total of four women and two children were injured after the gunmen fired a sawn-off shotgun at a crowd of people outside St Aloysius Church in Euston, north London, in what was believed to be a gang-related attack.

During sentencing, the court heard victim impact statements, including one from the mother of the girl.

A grab from CCTV footage showing people fleeing the incident in terror near Euston station

Four gangsters performed a drive-by shooting outside St Aloysius church (pictured) on Phoenix Road

Left to right: La Croix, 23, Alrico Nelson-Martin, 20, Jordan Walters, 24, and Jashy Perch, 20 were all convicted of conspiracy to wound with intent to cause serious bodily harm during a trial at Kingston Crown Court in February

A picture of the scene near Euston Station on Phoenix Road in north London

Forensic officers comb the scene where three women and a seven-year-old girl were injured near St Aloysius Church in a drive-by shooting

Police at the scene where the shooting occurred while a memorial service was taking place

She said: 'My daughter used to be a happy and outgoing girl who loved princesses, singing, and dancing.

'But this incident has taken her innocence away from her.

'I will never forget a comment she said to me while we were in the hospital. It still pains me.

'She asked me: 'Mummy, why is this happening to me?' For a seven-year-old girl to say that, to feel she had done something wrong, is heartbreaking.

'I honestly thought I was going to lose my daughter.'

Ringleader Tyrell La Croix, sentenced to 26 years, even celebrated the gang's show of strength later that evening following what was believed to be a revenge attack.

At the time of the shooting, the victims were attending a memorial service for Fresia Calderon, 50, and her daughter Sara Sanchez, 20, who died within weeks of each other through natural causes.

Detectives believe that one of the gunmen, a member of a gang in north London, had wanted to attack rival gang members who were at the service.

Mourners had turned to watch doves being released from the church steps when the criminals drove by in a black Toyota and shot at them from the rear passenger window.

La Croix, 23, Alrico Nelson-Martin, 20, Jordan Walters, 24, and Jashy Perch, 20 were all convicted of conspiracy to wound with intent to cause serious bodily harm during a trial at Kingston Crown Court in February.

Nelson-Martin was also convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and Perch was also convicted of possession of an offensive weapon.

Another victim, who was present in court, held back tears as her statement was read out.

Police vehicles and a cordon were put in place following the horror incident in north London

The incident happened on Phoenix Road, metres away from Euston Station in central London

The drive-by shooting took place in north London outside the memorial of a cancer victim, 20, and her mother, 50

She said: 'Prior to the incident, I was an extremely hands on mother, taking my children to school, piano classes, swimming lessons, as well as trips on to London or Brighton.

'I had the freedom to do that. But now, I have lost my physical and mental freedom.

'I can no longer walk across the road without assistance. I no longer feel safe, often anxious that something bad will happen.

'I no longer take my children out by myself. Financially, we are strained and close to losing our home, as I have been unable to work.

'And a day that was meant to be about remembering my friends was turned upside down by the actions of these individuals.

'It was a beautiful service which ended in a callous, cruel, and vicious way.

'I am a trusting person, and when this happened, it showed me how evil people can be.'

Today, at the same court, La Croix, who was the gang member and therefore described as the 'organiser' of the shooting, was jailed for 26 years comprised of 21 years in custody and five on licence.

Nelson-Martin was sentenced to 14 years in a Young Offender Institution and Walters was jailed for 13 years.

Perch was sentenced to 20 years, comprising 16 years in a Young Offender Institution and four years on licence.

Judge Mark Bryant-Heron KC said: 'This was a carefully planned conspiracy, with the attack timed to have maximum impact and ensure maximum injury.

'La Croix, you were the leader of the group. This was your plan and the others acted for you.

'Nelson-Martin and Perch, you sourced the car and put numbers on it. Nelson-Martin, you hid the gun, which was later modified with a shortened barrel to make it more dangerous.

'Walters and La Croix, you drove from Willesden to the church to reconnoiter the place of the attack.

Carlos Arturo Sanchez-Coronado (left) was the ex-husband of Fresia Calderon, who was one of the people for whom the service was being held in memory

Father Jeremy Trood was conducting the service on a Saturday afternoon at 1.30pm when the shooting occurred

'La Croix and Perch, you were in the car at the time of the shooting.'

Judge Bryant-Heron added that La Croix went out 'celebrating' on the evening of the attack.

'You went out celebrating what you thought was a successful show of strength against a rival gang,' he said.

'You had been stabbed a year prior by a member of a rival gang and you were set on revenge.

'The truly horrific nature of this crime is that you were all prepared to shoot and maim innocent members of the public in order to continue a violent feud between two rival gangs.

'The effect of the shooting was catastrophic. You caused injury, panic, and mayhem. It is the highest category of harm.'

The four defendants, all dressed in dark tracksuits, remained emotionless as their sentences were read out.

But La Croix and Perch could be seen attempting to converse during the proceedings.

During the trial, a jury was shown CCTV footage of mourners screaming and fleeing the service which took place on 14 January 2023.

Another video showed the black Toyota driving towards the church, with the rear passenger window down.

An invitation to the memorial service on Saturday urged people attending to wear white clothing in memory of the mother and daughter

The shooting happened at St Aloysius Roman Catholic church on January 14 2023

The shooting took place at a memorial service for Fresia Calderon (left) and her daughter Sara Sanchez (right), who died within a month of each other

A third showed the car making its escape, during which it drives at a considerable speed, overtakes a bus, drives on the wrong side of the road as it overtakes other cars, and jumps a red light.

Detectives from the Met Police trawled around 2,000 hours of CCTV footage to track the car and discovered that its number plates had been cloned.

Prosecutor Zoe Johnson KC explained during the trial: 'The registered owner of Toyota KC19 KTA is a man who bought the vehicle in September 2022.

'He was shopping at his local supermarket when another Toyota bearing the same number plates was used to commit the shooting.

'This is a common tactic for those planning to commit a crime  to copy a number plate and use it on another vehicle.

'That reveals that this was a carefully planned operation.'

Officers received information that La Croix was involved in the shooting and phone data revealed that he had been in regular contact with three other men in the leadup.

A gun was found at Nelson-Martin's home address, and Perch's fingerprints were traced to the gun.

DNA which could have come from Walters was also found on the gun.

Commenting on the verdict, Detective Inspector Darren Jones, from the Specialist Crime Trident Investigation team, said: 'These dangerous men brought unimaginable fear and horror to the streets of London.

'They cowardly shot at mourners as they gathered outside a church. The innocent women and girls who were injured will have to deal with the impact of that for the rest of their lives.

'This extensive and complex investigation demonstrates our relentless determination to identify dangerous offenders and bring them to justice.'
A bachelor who sued 50 women for calling him a bad date turned up at the house of one of the women even though she never gave him her address.

Stewart Lucas Murrey went to the Los Angeles home of Kelly Gibbons at 10.45pm and returned again days later at 8.45pm.

CCTV images from the property appear to show him filming or taking photos on his mobile phone.

Gibbons had never met Murrey in person and had only briefly swapped messages with him on dating app Hinge before texting.

Stewart Lucas Murrey, the Los Angeles bachelor who unsuccessfully sued 50 women for putting his womanizing ways on blast

Murrey went to the Los Angeles home of Kelly Gibbons at 10.45pm and returned again days later at 8.45pm

Stewart Lucas Murrey at Gibbons' home with a friend

Gibbons captured his visits to her house on a Ring camera

But he tracked her down and turned up unannounced to serve her papers in a defamation lawsuit he filed against her at a court in Los Angeles.

In an email, Murrey claimed that he was the one to block Gibbons over her 'heavily filtered pictures'.

He defended turning up at her house late at night to file the legal papers.

Murrey said: 'A couple of the defendants have attempted to evade service, even claiming they were not served when they actually were.

'Process servers are very costly when evasive defendants are involved and those were obviously the hours that she was available to be served by video evidence'.

Murrey and Gibbons communicated over Hinge and in text messages for three weeks in 2022

Gibbons, 32, an artist and writer, told DailyMail.com that the incident was 'disturbing' and left her deeply anxious about returning to her home.

In response to Murrey's comments about her photos being filtered, she said: 'How does one determine the effects of filters on a face theyve never actually seen in person?'

Gibbons is one of 50 women who Murrey, who calls himself a 'scholar', sued over his treatment in a viral Facebook group called: 'Are We Dating The Same Guy?' in which women made unflattering comments about him.

According to his civil complaint, these posts left him suffering from 'emotional distress', PTSD and 'mortification'.

He is seeking $2.6 million in compensatory and punitive damages.

This week a judge dismissed the case against Vanessa Valdes, one of the 10 women he named in the legal papers, with the rest in the process of filing their own motions to have the case thrown out.

'While I navigate this complex case which involves multiple defendants in various roles, I am taking opportunities for procedural remedies arising from the deficiencies of (Valdes' case being dismissed),' Murrey told DailyMail.com

'In all lawsuits, there are ups and downs. But the power should belong to the public in the form of a jury trial'.

Gibbons told DailyMail.com that she messaged Murrey on Hinge and texted him for three weeks in 2022 but it didn't go anywhere.

'When he was texting me it seemed more logistical than I'm used to when it comes to making a connection,' she said.

The pair had a flirty exchange on Hinge and were teeing up to meet when she got cold feet

'It didnt feel like a casual chat I would expect to have with someone after matching on a dating platform.

'I dragged it one for a couple of weeks longer than I should of to try and suss him out

'There were no fewer than 10 or 11 requests for a date, at least five requests for Facetime.

'He was overdoing it with the compliments on my appearance which made me uncomfortable'.

Texts between Gibbons and Murrey show him telling her: 'I like your ink on your pretty hand' and 'I like your vibe'.

At one point he called her 'beautiful, sensitive, intriguing, chill, fun' and 'beautiful Kel'.

In one text Murrey asked her if she was free that night, but she replied that it was 'kinda quick notice'.

Things turned sour the day before they were due to meet for the first time.

Gibbons said: 'Then he called me, an audio call. We'd never spoken on the phone before.

'We chatted for a minute and then he conferences called his 'lawyer' onto the phone. I thought it was really bizarre

'I was OK, I've never spoken to him, he's calling me at 11am. As soon as that happened they began talking to each other like I wasn't on the phone. I excused myself from the conversation.

'I went on Hinge to check his profile again and I noticed his profile wasn't matched with me anymore.

'I was surprised, we were meeting the next day, he didnt have any reason to unmatch me.'

In a text, Murrey tried to brush it off by saying: 'It's just crazy, too many women lol'.

When Gibbons told him she was 'getting a little nervous about meeting you for some reason', he replied: 'What's your Insta? I'll dm you'.

His next message was: 'Actually it's ok I'm not really interested in this anymore you're too erratic. I'm not into dumb games'.

When Gibbons told him goodbye and that she hoped he would 'find what you are looking for', he responded: 'Enjoy complimenting yourself if others don't lol'

Soon after Murrey texted her again, telling Gibbons that she had 'violent mood swings' and threatened to block her.

Vanessa Valdes received these messages from Murrey, who sued her for defamation but her case was dismissed

A few months later, Gibbons discovered the 'Are We Dating the Same Guy?' Facebook group, which was set up to allow women to warn other women about men they have bad experiences with on dates or dating apps.

Her post said: 'I'm curious to see if anyone has met 'Lucas' in person (I'm not sure if that's even his real name).

The post went viral within the Facebook group, which was set to private, with dozens of women commenting.

Gibbons said: 'In my post I didn't say anything about him. It's not: 'This is a man who did this'. I didn't want to make any assumptions. I've never met him.

'The way he spoke to me, I wouldn't want my friends being spoken to like that so I wanted to see if anyone else had experienced something similar'.

In February 2023, almost a year to the day after Gibbons blocked Murrey she got a message on Whatsapp from him.

Murrey sued 50 women for defamation claiming they'd lied about him. The case was thrown out

In an apparent reference to the Facebook group, it read that he had 'evidence of your conspiracy to defame me' and told her she was being sued, adding that her behaviour was 'disgusting'.

In December that year, Gibbons came home to find some legal papers on her back porch. She asked her building manager to review the CCTV and saw Murrey standing there at 10.45pm.

'I wasn't there at the time,' Gibbons said. 'He showed up twice. December 12th and December 17th, both times dropping the papers out of an envelope

'I never told him where I live, I never gave him my address. He went out of his way to track down where I live. It's disturbing.

'The second time my roommate was home and told me that somebody is knocking on the door but they didn't answer.

'He's holding his cellphone pointed at my house, my doors and windows.

'It's alarming. It heightens anxiety around security... my roommates asked if I'd put up a no trespassing sign which I did.

'I'd rather not think about how long he may have spent tracking down my home address. I never even gave him my full name.

'It's hard to not be concerned. When someone is inciting completely baseless legal action against dozens of people due to - in my opinion - a bruised ego, that's what I consider an unpredictable person'

Murrey insists that he was the victim throughout

Another of the women who was sued by Murey was Valdes, but her case was thrown out under California's anti-SLAPP legislation, which is designed to combat nuisance lawsuits.

Her texts with Murrey show that he became upset because she had a male friend in one of her profile pictures.

He wrote: 'Why is there a guy in your pic, genius?'

When she replied that she was 'amused by how you think you know me well enough to talk to me like one your buddies', he responded: 'It's fun watching you burn lol'

Valdes told him she was 'reporting your a**' and told him to 'stay away from women and get help'.

Murrey replied: 'Good Vanessa Loser I'm subpoenaing you're idiot 'report' and possibly suing you for defamation. Does it upset you that I've broken no laws just like it's legal for you to (be) a moron. By the way, real decent women love me lol'.

Another message read: 'I'm sorry your so jealous when rejected'.

Gibbons said that she accepted service on Murrey's lawsuit even though it was improperly served to stop him coming back to her house again.

She called the case against her 'frivolous' and 'baseless' and said she planned to file her anti-SLAPP motion soon.
Before he became known as a frenzied stabber who attacked a group of teenagers on the Apple River on what would have been a fun day out with friends, Nicolae Miu was a 'peaceful' man who loved his engineering job and spent most of his time thinking about his dog.

That's what a trial heard this week as Miu was convicted of the murder of Isaac Shuman, a 17-year-old who was among the group tormenting Miu. They labeled him a pedophile, insisting he'd been taking photographs of girls in their swimwear.

The man who gave them that idea admitted at Miu's trial that he'd said it in the heat of the moment and couldn't actually be sure that he'd seen it in hindsight.

Convinced he was under attack, Miu lashed out - stabbing five teenagers, including Shuman and a teenage girl, before tossing the knife.

Some of the victims' wounds were horrific. One lifted his shirt to show the huge torso scar that Miu inflicted when he sliced him from ribs to his pelvis.

In Miu's defense, his estranged wife Sondra testified that he was not violent, and had been acting in self-defense. She filed for divorce a month before the trial began, citing the stress of it as the cause of the marriage breakdown.

In old social media posts, Miu - a Romanian native who arrived in the US as a teenager - he gave a glimpse into their marriage with photos of the handgun she bought him for Valentine's Day.

Nicolae Miu, an engineer convicted of the homicide of a 17 year-old boy during a tubing argument in July 2022, is a 'peaceful man' who loves his dog, his ex-wife claims

Stabbing victim A.J. Martin shows his scar on the third day of Miu's trial

The three-inch Swiss army knife that was used by Miu to stab the youngsters in 2022

Miu tossed the knife onto the river bank in a panic after the frenzied attack

In divorce filings obtained by DailyMail.com, Miu was previously married to a woman named Teodora, who he shared a son, Alex, with in 2005.

The couple divorced in 2009, and court records show that he and his mother moved to Bucharest, Romania at the end of the marriage while Nicolae remained in Minnesota.

He worked at Ritchie Engineering, and earned $7,250 a month, according to the divorce filing.

Miu then remarried in 2011 with his colleague at the engineering factory, who testified in his defense at his murder trial this week.

She described him as a 'peaceful' man who was known to help neighbors fixing things, often with his 'utility knife' that was used in the attack.

Sondra divorced him last month, but insisted that she still loves him.

On the stand, he told about undergoing quadruple bypass surgery in the years before the fatal incident.

He cried when presented with a photo of his terrier, his beloved dog that he referred to as his 'baby', his 'angel'.

Nicolae's wife Sondra, who filed for divorce a month before the trial began, testified in his defense as she described the engineer as a 'peaceful' man

In one post from 2019, Miu shared an image of a handgun and ammo inside a heart-shaped box that his wife had bought for him as a gift

Miu would often share right-wing memes and jokes on his social media, including memes of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton behind bars

Miu made no secret of his love of weapons online, including posts claiming that 'guns don't kill people, people kill people'

Miu didn't have kids but thought of his dog as his 'baby'. Another glimpse into his love of guns is revealed through his Facebook post

In a bid to win sympathy from the jury, Miu's attorneys showed a photo of him in the hospital after he underwent triple bypass surgery years before the attack

Miu's beloved dog, a Yorkshire terrier he referred to as his 'baby', 'his angel'

Miu on the stand, tearing up and smiling when he talked about his pet dog

Prosecutors also claimed that Miu was drunk during the attack, however Sondra insisted he only had one or two beers, and was only a 'moderate drinker' who would only drink alcohol occasionally.

She added that Nicolae has a quadruple bypass surgery in 2020.

While described as a peaceful man, during his marriage Miu would frequently share right-wing jokes on his since-deleted Facebook account.

Archived images from his old Facebook showed he would often share his views on weapons and his love of the Second Amendment.

In one post from 2019, Miu shared an image of a handgun and ammo inside a heart-shaped box that his wife had bought for him as a gift.

Miu worked as an engineer for a company that installed HVACs

'Big thanks to my wonderful wife! I love my present! Happy Valentines Day to you too!' he wrote.

He also reshared a post in March 2020 reading: 'I believe in the right to keep and bear arms. A Facebooker has challenged all gun owners to put this on their wall.

'The U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed the right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental right of an individual.

'If you believe in the 2nd Amendment, and you are not afraid to show it, re-post this!! Guns dont kill people, people kill people.'

In 1999, Miu was also involved in a filing along with his identical twin brother Mihai, as they filed for a restraining order against their father, Nicolae Miu Sr.

In the filing, first reported by The Sun, they cited 'numerous instances' of physical abuse at the hands of their father, and testified that their father 'spied' on Mihai and was caught 'lurking outside his home.'

Nicolae's wife Sondra divorced him last month, but insisted that she still loves him as she testified in his defense

Nicolae Miu's twin brother Mihai Mui (left) and his family leave the courthouse after his brother's guilty verdict on Thursday

The brothers claimed to be 'really afraid' of him.

In response, Nicolae Sr reportedly told the court a bizarre story about how the 'KGB has a plot aimed to 'get him' through his son.'

The restraining order was upheld, and Nicolae Sr's appeal was rejected. He died less than 18 months later aged 75.

With no brushes with the law until the stabbing in July 2022, Miu would often take to social media to rant, including numerous transphobic remarks.

In one post, reported by The Sun, he wrote: 'The entire world is a very confusing world latest...boys dressing like girls, fake lips, fake boobs, fake food fake everything!

'Boys using girls bathrooms....is that supposed to be our new the stipple of freedom?

'Men not respecting their women counterparts because of a lack of upbringing is very concerning.... children not respecting their parents is also very concerning....and yes not respecting God is the most concerning to me!'

Although he often shared posts on weapons and the Second Amendment, Miu had no other brushes with the law until the fateful day on the river.

Miu's wife Sondra told detectives that the violent altercation began after Miu, whose group was farther up the river, went back to find a 'phone that was lost' while wearing snorkeling gear

Miu is seen approaching the group (left). Someone is see with their arms near Miu's neck during the incident (right)

Video then shows the chilling moment another member of the group stumbling into the river while a pool of red water emerged around him

During the first week of trial on April 1, the court reviewed a video that captured the intense moments leading up to and during the stabbing.

Miu was seen aggressively approaching the tubers, including the person recording, as they heckled him and laughed at him - telling him to 'walk away.'

The twenty-somethings reportedly approached Miu first, however, after spotting him chatting to a group of teenagers who looked 'uncomfortable,' as he was allegedly asking for the numbers of 'young girls.'

A woman then approached Miu ordering him to go away from the group, while one of the boys shouted 'he was looking for little girls.'

The video then showed the group push Miu down into the water repeatedly and hit him while he scrambled to get up.

Members of the group then began to shout: 'He hit a woman?'

Nicolae Miu leaves court on April 11 after being found guilty of first degree murder

The woman clutched her side in shock as blood began to pour out, and it became apparent that she had been stabbed.

The DA's Office said that there was 'enough blood in the river that water turned a red tint in places.'

Video then showed the chilling moment another member of the group stumbled into the river as a pool of red water emerged around him.

Chaos ensued as the group quickly dispersed. The cameraman screamed 'this isn't real' as more blood stained the water.

The distressing footage then suddenly cut out.

When the stabbing unfolded, Miu's wife Sondra told detectives that the violent altercation began after Miu, whose group was further up the river, went back to find a 'phone that was lost' while wearing snorkeling gear.

While he was looking, Sondra said a 'group of guys got off their tubes and started hitting' him.
Its rival, known as Beigel Shop, mysteriously shut after a rumoured family issue

The huge queue at the Brick Lane bakery forced it to make a whole new batch

Panic-stricken customers flooded into Brick Lane today over fears the iconic street's last remaining bagel shop was shutting its doors.

The frenzy was sparked after a social media post, which has since been deleted, claimed the popular Beigel Bake shop had sold its last roll.

It turned out to be a false alarm but led to staff at the shop, which bakes 7,000 bagels a day, being forced to bake an extra batch to satisfy demand.

The scare came just weeks after a renowned rival - the Beigel Shop just four doors away - dramatically closed its doors after a reputed 169 years in business.

The rival shop - affectionately known as the yellow one because of its distinctive signage - was shuttered amid an alleged family falling out.

Bagel lovers turned up in their masses outside Beigel Bake today over fears it was soon closing

One happy customer with their bagel outside Beigel Bake today after waiting in a long queue that formed over fears the bakery was soon closing

Plans are being drawn up to reopen the Beigel Shop but as the premises remain padlocked, the prospect that no bagels would be on sale in Brick Lane for the first time since 1855 proved too much to bear for food lovers.

One customer told MailOnline: 'I was so shocked when I heard [Beigel Bake] was closing down that I rushed over so I could have one last salt beef bagel.

'Thankfully when I got here it was business as usual - although with bigger queues.'

The shop - known as the 'white one' because of its signage and famed for never closing its doors because of its round-the-clock opening hours - has become a cherished institution in the street which attracts visitors from around the world.

Scotching the viral rumour a senior member of the family, which has run the 'white one' since 1974, told MailOnline: 'We're not closing down.

'There must be some confusion with the place next door.

'Don't worry - Brick Lane will still have beigels.'

Beigel Bake also boasts a celebrity clientele with pop stars Madonna and Mariah Carey among its customers while Prince William and wife Kate visited to help out in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

The Duke and Duchess delighted royal fans with their visit to Beigel Bake in 2020, with local people leaning out of their apartment windows to catch a glimpse of the couple

People watched from the windows above Beigel Bake Brick Lane Bakery as Prince William and Kate visited while wearing face coverings due to the COVID-19 pandemic

The 'yellow one' professed to be the oldest bagel shop in Brick Lane and is said to have sold bagels on the site since 1855 when it was founded by Jewish immigrants from Russia.

It's thought a family dispute broke out following a row with the landlord over rent.

MailOnline revealed plans are being drawn up to get the beloved bakery back in business after a new set of directors were appointed last month.

But with wrangling still taking place behind closed doors it was too much to bear for many as unfounded concerns were raised over the future of the rival Beigel Bake.

Heating engineer Michael Herring, 56, said: 'I was born and bred round here.

'These shops have always been here my whole life.

'I just couldn't imagine Brick Lane without a bagel shop.

'I've been coming down here since I was a kid. I've always used the white one. I couldn't count how many times I've been here.

'I live out in Essex now but I still come here for the bagels.

'Brick Lane has changed so much since I was a kid. I hardly recognise the place now.

'There used to be local shops and tradesmen who would set up here but they've all gone. There was a proper market here - they even had a dog market.

'The bagel shops are the last places still here from the old days. They are part of the establishment now.'

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were cheered as they arrived at the world-famous bakery back in 2020

The Duke and Duchess admitted they had never tried the famous bagels from the store before this special visit fours years ago

The Duke and Duchess appeared in high spirits during the visit to the bakery, with Prince William playfully tossing a piece of dough into the air

Bronte Tuxworth, 28, who works in a nearby vintage clothing shop, said: 'Both shops were open 24/7 but the nearest one then just closed suddenly.

'It was open one day and the next day it wasn't. It's a bit of a mystery. No-one here is sure what's going on.

'It was a very popular place. I think both the bagel shops were family run so it's sad to see a family business shut down. I hope it's not the end.

'People come here at all times of the day and night. It's a real institution.

'This part of brick lane is known for its bagel shops and vintage shops. I can't imagine it any other way.'

University student Amreen Sangha, 21, who stood at the back of the snaking queue, said: 'It's such a famous place I saw it on TikTok and thought I'd try it out.

'I wasn't expecting there to be such a line here, especially on a week day but I'm going to stick with it.'

Another visitor Rebecca Reed said: 'We have come up from Surrey.

'We're having a day out with the kids during the Easter holidays and made a detour to come here because some of the group I'm with have never tried it.

'I can't believe this place would ever close down - it's too popular.'

Her friend Camelia Garrett, who was tucking into a salt beef bagel, said: 'I've never been here before but my friend reminded me about the bagel place and I just had to come.

'When I first saw the queue I wasn't sure but someone said that if there's a queue that's a good sign and it was certainly worth the wait.

'I'm really glad we came. It's lovely - delicious.'

Another visitor, a former taxi driver called Brian, said: 'I was a cab driver for 47 years and I've been using this place all my life.

'It was always a pit stop for all London cabbies. It's a landmark.

'It's open 24 hours. You can come here any time of the day or night to get a bite to eat and a coffee.

'There's no chance whatsoever that this place will shut - it's too popular. There would be an outcry.'

The Duchess appeared a natural in the kitchen at the local bakery, and joked that she was having 'beginner's luck' with her technique

The Duchess rewore her 550 pretty red floral gown by Beulah London for the appearance, with the dress featuring a bold white collar

The 'yellow one' has remained shut since a High Court writ of possession was posted on the glass front door and dated February 13.

The legal notice warns proceedings for criminal damage and trespass will be launched against anyone attempting to enter the property.

Visitors are urged to contact lawyers representing the landlord for further information.

A source told MailOnline: 'Everything is being done to open up the shop again.

'They're just having family issues and they're trying to sort themselves out.

'They had a falling out and this is where we are. They are sorting it out between them.

'There may be a change of management within the family.'

The registered owner of the shop is Ellis Zelman in documents with Companies House.

Until last September, Beigel Shop Brick Lane Limited was co-owned by Ellis and Ashley Zelman, both 21.

But in September Ashley's shares were all transferred to Ellis, giving him sole control.

The records show that as the drama unfolded a company set up by two families who run the shop - which had previously been known as Beigels on Wheels - underwent a name change to Yellow Beigel Shop Group Ltd on February 24.

Ellis and Ashley Zelman were appointed directors of the firm in March 2022 when it was operating under its previous name.

While Ellis remains a director, Ashley resigned his position in April last year.

Three new directors were appointed on March 4 including Hayley and Melanie White who have been involved in helping to run the establishment for a number of years.

Hayley had also previously been a director of the Beigel Shop Brick Lane Ltd but resigned own December 2022.

According to Land Registry documents the building appears to be separately owned by Derrick, Darren and Karen Lefcoe who live in Washington, USA and London.

Shortly after the eviction notice was placed on the inside of the door, a replacement sign was taped over it saying the 'temporary' closure was due to 'electrical maintenance work'.

The sign has since been torn down and the shop has remained closed.

Another notice was put up redirecting post to a doughnut shop next door.

But staff there said there had never been an agreement to accept mail and have told postal workers to return letters and packages to the depot.

The sign redirecting mail there has since been taken down.

Court documents show the writ was issued on January 18 after a case was lodged at Clerkenwell and Shoreditch County Court.

The sudden closure and lack of information has upset customers at the shop which boasts of being 'Britain's first and best' bagel bakery.

Brick Lane's most popular beigel bakeries were once rivals. Now, Beigel Shop has closed until further notice.

It's meant that ever-growing queues have been forming at the rival Beigel Bake, which is two doors away, and is known as the 'white one' because of the different coloured signs above the shops.

Both 24-hour establishments attract tourists from around the world to London's East End and operate seven days a week - proving hugely popular with late-night revellers for their bakery specialities, which include fillings of salt beef and smoked salmon.

In the wake of the closure customer Mandy Sampson said: 'We've been visiting for longer than I can remember, our children and grandchildren too.

'It will be such a sad and unnecessary loss if the shop doesn't reopen.

'I would appeal to the freeholder to reconsider this piece of our history needs to be preserved.'

Another customer Tracy Adams wrote on the shop's Instagram page: 'Please keep us updated. Missing you. Been visiting your shop since I was eight, almost half a century.'

A second customer wrote: 'Please come back soon. I do not want to stand in the Beigel Bake queue with all the annoying tourists for our bagels.'

MailOnline has approached the family who run the shop and lawyers acting for the landlord for comment.
The London mayoral hustings had to be stopped when Sadiq Khan was shouted down by a heckler in the audience over violent crime in the capital.

The event on Thursday night was suspended for 20 minutes when Andreas Michli, an independent mayoral candidate, repeatedly shouted out the names of teenage knife crime victims.

Mr Khan was unable to speak as Mr Michli, who sat in the middle of the 200-strong audience with two supporters, disrupted the meeting along with another unnamed woman.

When the London mayor blamed the crime levels in the city on austerity, he was interrupted with shouts of 'no' from some of the audience.

Andreas Michli, an independent mayoral candidate and gym owner, heckled Mr Khan

Mr Michli was asked to leave after security spoke to him. The audience applauded as he left

Speaking afterwards, Mr Khan said: 'Hundreds of people came along tonight to listen to the debate and one person tried to ruin it for everybody else'

Mr Michli said he was protesting about the 'absolute doo-doo coming out of Mr Khan's mouth', saying: 'Children are dying.

'The little man over there will continue to let teenagers die.'

Eventually, Mr Michli agreed to leave after multiple requests from security.

Mr Michli, a gym owner, received applause as he left the event, accompanied by security.

Hustings still halted. Final plea for disrupters to leave pic.twitter.com/aCU36UGsay  lee harpin (@lmharpin) April 11, 2024

The event on Thursday night was suspended for 20 minutes after Mr Michli shouted out the names of murdered teenagers

Mr Michli said he was protesting about the 'absolute doo-doo coming out of Mr Khan's mouth'

He wrote on Twitter/X about the event, saying: 'Last night I discovered Sadiq Khan would be attending a hustings at a Jewish community centre in Finchley Road so I rushed down after campaigning on my tour bus all day.

'Little man khan has spent the last eight years ignoring, neglecting and worsening the fact that teenagers are murdering each other on our streets in unprecedented numbers.

'Hes had every opportunity to face up to and deal with this heartbreaking issue, but he has instead given us lies and excuses at every opportunity he gets.

'I certainly wont be the man that sits quietly and listens to horse s**t coming out his mouth.

'Eliyanna Andam, 15, Tyler McDermott, 17, Renell Charles, 16 Victor Lee, 17, Leonardo Reid, 15.

'Heres just a few of the murdered teenagers names that I "heckled" at little man Khan last night which he couldnt stand to hear. Does he know who they are? I seriously doubt it.'

Conservative mayoral candidate Susan Hall also attacked the Labour mayor's track record on crime, describing it as 'indefensible'.

She said: 'It's amazing to hear Sadiq Khan try to defend his record.

'We have had eight years when violent crime has risen 33 per cent and knife crime is up 54 per cent.'

Speaking afterwards, Mr Khan said: 'Hundreds of people came along tonight to listen to the debate and one person tried to ruin it for everybody else.'

The hustings featured the four frontrunners including Mr Khan, Ms Hall, Green Zoe Garbett and Lib-Dem Rob Blackie.

It was hosted at the JW3 community centre in Hampstead by the London Jewish Forum.

All candidates expressed concern about the 'from the river to the sea' chants that have been heard at pro-Palestine marches.

Mr Khan said the October 7 attack by Hamas was the 'largest mass murder of Jews since the Holocaust that has inflicted a wound that may never heal'.

MailOnline has contacted the London Mayor's Office for comment.

Police estimates show 1,008 homicides were recorded in the 2,773 days since Mr Khan was first elected  leaving around 130 families ripped apart every year of his tenure.

This includes 1,003 before 2023 ended  including Harry Pitman on December 31  and another five in the first ten days of January 2024. It comes as the mayor is refusing to supply the Met Police with 70million in funds for its crucial 'New Met For London' reforms, yet offered a bumper 30million pay deal to unions to avert crippling Tube strikes.

The data sparked accusations that Mr Khan had only made the situation worse while in the job  although his office claimed that homicide levels had fallen to their lowest since 2014.
China's top legislator, Zhao Leji, has met with Choe Ryong-hae, a senior North Korean official, to discuss ways to further develop bilateral ties, Pyongyang's state media said Friday.

The trip by the No. 3 official in the Chinese Communist Party came as the two countries mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations.

The two "discussed the issues of positively promoting exchange and cooperation in all fields, including politics, economy and culture ... and thus further developing the traditional" bilateral relations, the KCNA said, a day after Zhao arrived in Pyongyang for his three-day trip in a bid to attend the opening ceremony of the "North Korea-China Friendly Year."

They also exchanged views about bilateral cooperation, as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern, the KCNA said, without elaborating.

Zhao, chairman of the National People's Congress of China, said Beijing hopes to strengthen high-level exchanges and deepen reciprocal cooperation with North Korea on the occasion of the friendship year, according to China's foreign ministry.

They also signed documents of cooperation in such fields as mutual waivers of diplomatic visas, customs clearances and quarantine measures.

Zhao is the first high-ranking Chinese official to visit North Korea since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.

North Korea appears to be ramping up high-level exchanges with Beijing, as much as it has been expanding its relationship with Russia, including military cooperation.

Seoul's unification ministry said Thursday that Zhao's trip to Pyongyang may lead to a full-fledged recovery in bilateral relations between the two nations. Observers see the possibility of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visiting China later this year for a possible summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

North Korea began resuming exchanges with China, its longtime ally and largest economic benefactor, in a limited manner after partially opening its border in August last year following its tight COVID-19 border shutdown. (Yonhap)
A family doctor who 'desecrated' a terminally ill patient's final months by groping her while telling her 'I'm helping you' was today jailed for three and a half years.

Dr Mohan Babu, 47, 'abused his trust' as he hugged, kissed and fondled three vulnerable women - one of whom was dying of cancer.

In 'horrendous' acts the father of two ordered one woman - who had terminal pancreatic cancer and has since died - to take her top off before groping her.

The GP 'targeted' the three women - the youngest of whom was 19 - at the surgery where he worked alongside his doctor wife, inappropriately touching them and making 'creepy' comments.

After being convicted of four counts of sexual assault against three patients following a three week trial at Portsmouth Crown Court, Hampshire, in January, Babu was today jailed for three and a half years.

Sentencing him for the 'serious' offences, Honour Judge Newton-Price KC said: 'You chose victims who were vulnerable and less likely to complain.'

Doctor Mohan Babu at Portsmouth Crown court where he was sentenced today for a number of sexual assaults against patients, April 12, 2024

In 'horrendous' acts the father of two ordered one woman - who had terminal pancreatic cancer and has since died - to take her top off before groping her. Pictured January 8, 2024

At his trial the court heard he was the most-complained about doctor at Staunton Surgery in Havant, Hants, and had been given repeated warnings over his behaviour after joining in April 2018.

The court heard he targeted 'vulnerable' women after being recommended by his wife, Dr Aroline Rodrigues, 43, who also worked as a GP at the surgery.

In June 2019 Babu left a now-deceased 57 year old woman 'shocked and frozen' when he asked her to lift up her top to check for lumps and touched her after her recent cancer diagnosis.

He then moved his hands under her lower body clothing, under her skirt and only stopped when she asked him to, it was heard.

The court heard the woman could see his erection, before he said: 'I'm helping you, you need to touch it so I can help you.'

The brother of the complainant who had since died, said in a victim impact statement read to the court: 'My beloved sister deserved the dignity of her final months, this man desecrated her final months.'

Prosecutor Miranda Moore KC said: 'This wasn't simply a doctor abusing the trust placed in him by a patient.

'This was someone at the time who was dying.

'He specifically targeted, in every case, someone who was specifically vulnerable.

'These were all ladies who were suffering emotionally as well as physically in some form.'

Fiona Horlick KC, defending, said that Babu had scored 48 out of 50 on a test for autism and added: 'It has a very severe and significant effect particularly on his personal life, this would have had an effect on offending.'

She said that Babu had been suspended by the General Medical Council (GMC) and added: 'He has lost everything he would consider of value to him, he will never work as a doctor again, he will not be coming into contact with patients, he won't be back in that position of trust again.'

The court heard that Babu qualified as a doctor in 2001 and came to the UK in 2006.

In victim personal statements read to the court, one woman said her life had been 'ruined' by the sexual assault.

The brother of the woman who died said: 'This conviction is a bitter-sweet victory of justice which can now be served for these horrendous sexual offences.

'A man that [his sister] should have been able to trust but who committed these acts for his sexual gratification.

'My beloved sister deserved the dignity of her final months, that man desecrated her remaining time on earth.'

Babu also assaulted two other women who he kissed on the cheeks, touched the breasts of, called them 'cute' and asked for hugs.

He also told her 'I'm not having a bad day' as he touched their breast, the court heard.

Judge Newton-Price said that the examinations were unnecessary for their treatment and he acted out of his own 'sexual gratification'.

Reading her statement to the court, one woman said: 'I was targeted when I was vulnerable.

'It has essentially ruined my life. I still struggle to admit what happened.

'I don't know if I'm ever going to be right again.'

His final victim said the incident had led her on a 'dark, downward decline'.

'I got to a point where I couldn't even wash myself in the shower because I felt so dirty,' she said.

'I cried every day for six months.'

Sentencing Babu, Judge James Newton-Price KC told him that he abused the trust of his patients.

He said: 'I regard you as an intelligent man who could think logically and was capable of making choices regardless of your autism.

'I do not consider your autism caused or contributed to your offending. You chose victims that were vulnerable and less likely to complain.'

He also made Babu subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years and placed him on the sex offenders register for life.

Mohan Babu leaves Portsmouth Crown Court, Hampshire, where he was accused of five sexual assaults against four women between September 2019 and July 2021. Pictured March 27

Sophie Stevens, deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS Wessex, said: Mohan Babu abused his position of trust as a GP to carry out vile assaults which left patients feeling violated.

Sadly, one of these women passed away before Babu was convicted - but the CPS was determined that her voice be heard and we successfully applied for her evidence to be presented to the jury alongside these other women.

Their voices, all heard in unison, painted a clear picture of offending and convinced the jury Babu was guilty of these assaults.

Our suspect-centred approach to dealing with allegations of sexual assault - which are handled by specialist prosecutors - means we always focus on the behaviour and actions of the suspect, and not the victim.
A senior staff member of a scam company has been arrested amid a Europe-wide probe into the 550million 'JuicyFields' Ponzi scheme - which tricked people into investing in a fake medicinal cannabis network.

The National Crime Agency yesterday arrested a 42-year-old man, in Atherstone, Warwickshire for his alleged role in the 'notorious and elaborate Ponzi scheme'.

Ponzi schemes are a form of fraud which promises investors large profits with minimal risk. Instead of generating returns through legitimate business, scammers use money from new investors to pay earlier ones, creating an illusion of a profitable enterprise.

These schemes invariably collapse when there are not enough new investors to sustain payouts to the previous ones.

Investments in the platform are thought to amount to a staggering 645million (550m), though unreported damages could bring that sum far higher, the NCA said.

A senior staff member of a scam company has been arrested amid a Europe-wide probe into the 550million 'JuicyFields' Ponzi scheme - which tricked people into investing into a fake medicinal cannabis network

The National Crime Agency yesterday arrested a 42-year-old man, in Atherstone, Warwickshire for his alleged role in the 'notorious and elaborate Ponzi scheme' (stock photo)

From early 2020 to 2022, more than 500,000 individuals across dozens of countries were registered to JuicyFields websites and offered promising crowdsourcing investment opportunities in the cultivation, harvesting and distribution of medicinal cannabis. Over 180,000 investors transferred funds.

In July 2022, those behind the scheme abruptly removed company profiles from social media networks and prevented users from logging into their accounts, thereby freezing cash withdrawals.

The NCA's work was part of co-ordinated action across 10 countries.

Huge numbers of police reports across Europe led to the establishment of a joint investigation team at Eurojust, led by Spanish, German and French authorities, and supported by Europol, the NCA, and policing partners from multiple member states.

On Thursday, April 11, law enforcement across the continent arrested nine individuals and conducted over 30 house searches.

Over the course of the investigation, several millions of Euros in crypto assets and bank accounts were frozen.

Real estate properties, vehicles, artwork, cash and various luxury items have been seized, in addition to a large number of electronic devices and documents.

Officers from the NCA, joined by Spanish police, yesterday arrested a 42 year-old man in Atherstone, Warwickshire. Specialist officers from Warwickshire Police were seen in the Bracebridge Road area of town yesterday morning, CoventryLive reports.

An FAQ on the JuicyFields website describing what they told investors the company does

The NCA alleges the man was responsible for paying salaries to staff members and helped to legitimise the company by attending industry events.

In a subsequent search of his house, officers recovered a number of digital devices, which will now be forensically analysed.

The man appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on April 11 for the commencement of extradition proceedings.

Tom Barford, NCA Branch Commander, said: 'Criminals like those behind JuicyFields are highly adept at identifying new and more sophisticated ways to target victims.

'In this case, individuals across the world were lured by the promise of high returns with little or no risk, and then faced with devastating losses.

'The NCA is one of many partners who joined German, French and Spanish authorities to take joint action, showing what we can achieve when we come together to tackle serious and organised crime.'
Jill Biden on Friday blasted Donald Trump as 'dangerous' and a 'bully,' calling on voters to 'fight like h***' to give her husband Joe Biden a second term.

The first lady, speaking to volunteers of the Human Rights Campaign, described her husband as a champion of LGBTQ rights and Trump as 'dangerous' to the community.

'Donald Trump is a bully,' she said to cheers from the crowd. 'He is dangerous to the LGBTQ community, to our families, to our country and we cannot let him win. We have to fight like h*** until Joe and Kamala have another term.'

'Donald Trump is a bully,' Jill Biden told the Human Rights Campaign

Biden delivered a fiery speech to the crowd of 500 volunteers, rallying them to support Biden and Vice President Harris in November.

She told the story of how when she was 13 she went to confront a neighborhood kid who was being mean to her little sister Bonnie.

'I had no idea what I was going to say to him. But when he opened the door without thinking I pulled back and punched him right in the face,' she said.

She then used her story as a warning that bullies must be stopped.

'When bullies threaten our loved ones, when they strip away our basic rights and deny our basic humanity, when they put our country and our democracy at risk, there's only one thing to do: we fight,' she said.

'We have to begin now.'

She also described what President Biden has done for the community: marriage equality is now the law of the land, gay men can donate blood, trans Americans can serve in military, and end convergent therapy.

She noted that under President Biden the LGBTQ community is 'free to walk down the street as your authentic self. Co workers that use your chosen name and pronouns. Kids with two moms or two dads on the playground. Communities that support you - understand you.'

Jill Biden has been increasing her attacks on Donald Trump (above), her husband's GOP rival

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden speak at a campaign event in Philadelphia last month

After her speech, Jill Biden spent about 15 minutes talking to volunteers at the Human Rights Campaign

Jill Biden has been increasing her attacks on the former president who is challenging her husband for a second term in the White House.

She warned the crowd under Republican-rule their rights would disappear.

'History teaches us that our rights and our freedoms don't disappear overnight. They disappear slowly, suddenly, silently: a book ban, a court decision, a don't say gay law,' she said.

'One group of people loses their rights and then another and then another. Until one morning you wake up and you no longer live in a democracy.'

She then warned them of the fight ahead and noted 'it's up to us how it ends.'

Her remarks came as the Biden campaign launched 'Out for Biden-Harris,' an initiative to mobilize LGBTQ voters.

The Biden re-election team notes the Human Rights Campaign, the National Center for Transgender Equality and Equality PAC have all endorsed President Biden for a second term.
Two doctors with the UCLA's psychiatry department have held a lecture in which they have gone against medical norms by suggesting self-immolation, the act of setting oneself on fire, should not be stigmatized, despite it usually killing the person involved.

Drs. Ragda Izar and Afaf Moustafa, both psychiatry residents at UCLA, held a discussion entitled 'Depathologizing Resistance' and saw the pair describe the disturbing and violent act as a form of 'revolutionary suicide.'

The pair specifically referenced the case of Aaron Bushnell, a U.S. serviceman who set himself on fire in protest against U.S. support for Israel or as the doctors described the country, 'indigenous Palestine.'

The duo argued that Bushnell's actions, although stemming from mental distress, could also be seen as a rational response to what they described as Israel's 'genocide' in Palestine.

The pair suggested that Bushnell could be considered a 'martyr,' and that he was a man in full control of his mental faculties who was responding rationally to the conflict some 6,000 miles away.

Dr. Ragda Izar, left, and Dr. Afaf Moustafa, both psychiatry residents at UCLA, argued the act of self-immolation to be a form of 'revolutionary suicide' - but such views are contrary to established medical norms that caution against promoting self-harm

Izar and Moustafa, questioned whether Bushnell's distress made his actions any less valid, highlighting the emotional impact of witnessing violence and carnage in conflict zones such as Gaza.

'Yes, he carried a lot of distress,' Izar said in audio recordings of the talk. 'But does that mean the actions he engaged in are any less valid? Isn't it normal to be distressed when you're seeing this level of carnage?'

But the pair's twisted logic goes established medical standards and practices that caution against the glorifying or romanticizing self-harm - no matter the cause.

American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, both mental health bodies, strongly advise against bestowing honor or admiration on suicide victims, as it can potentially encourage others to engage in self-harm.

The views of Doctors Izar and Moustafa, who are both practicing psychiatrists suggest self-immolation is a reasonable response by someone wanting to protest.

Their extreme views have been attributed to the rise of so-called 'activist doctors' within medical organizations reports the Washington Free Beacon.

The UCLA speakers argue the stigma against self-immolation serves the interests of power structures and perpetuates colonialism, homophobia, and white supremacy.

They contend that psychiatry pathologizes legitimate acts of protest against societal injustices, framing them as signs of psychiatric dysfunction.

Such opinion goes directly against widely accepted guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which warns against glorifying suicide victims.

In Febaruary, Aaron Bushnell declared he would 'no longer be complicit in genocide' as he set himself alight and livestreamed the horrific scene. He later died from his burns

'That guidance was certainly violated by the presenters,' said psychologist Elliot Kaminetzky to the Free Beacon. 'The stigma against self-immolation is one reason Western countries see so little of it. This is a good thing.

'For mental health professionals to encourage removing the stigma is reckless and could lead to an increase in the number of individuals who protest in this tragic and horrifyingly painful fashion.'

Yale psychiatrist Sally Satel believed the talk was unlikely to set off copycats but felt the practice should not be destigmatized.

'The more a culture venerates that kind of behavior as honorable the more we are likely to see additional examples,' Satel said.

Hamas carried out a deadly terrorist attack in several locations across southern Israel on October 7, killing more than 1,200 people and taking over 200 hostages.

The attack led to an Israeli response that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed would 'echo for generations.'

Pro-Hamas statements have not been uncommon at colleges across the nation.

Some demonstrations have featured speakers openly praising Hamas for the attack with chants of 'from the river to the sea,' a frequently heard. The slogan calls for Israel to be wiped out.
Police bodycam footage captured the incredible moment two 14 year-old twin sisters who had run away over a month ago were found by authorities.

The girls were found at a hotel in Allen Park, Michigan, where they were staying with Marcus Peoples, a 30-year-old man with a criminal background.

They were first reported missing by their father on March 8, after they both failed to return to their home on Robson Street in Detroit.

On April 8, Detroit authorities announced that the twins were recovered and reunited with the rest of their family.

In the bodycam footage, officers could be seen standing outside the girls' hotel room, which was in the Comfort Inn off I-94.

Police bodycam footage captured the remarkable moment when Allen Park police officers found two missing twin sisters. The twins, 14, had run away from their Detroit home over a month ago and there whereabouts were unknown. On April 8, they were found at a Comfort Inn, where they were staying with Marcus Peoples, a 30-year-old with a criminal background; pictured: the twins, with their faces blurred, on the left; Marcus Peoples is on the right in the blue sweatshirt with the BMW logo

The police quickly separated the twins from the 30-year-old.

'Here, you two, right here,' the officer said authoritatively and removed the girls from Peoples' orbit.

'You go with him,' the officer said, directing the 30-year-old to the side.

The video then showed the girls sitting on the steps of the staircase.

The cop could be heard telling them: 'I know who you guys are. I know who you guys are'.

He added: 'I know who's looking for you, and we're gonna have to solve that tonight'.

Authorities had previously been unable to locate the ninth-graders because they did not have their cell phones with them.

The father had pleaded with the local community to help him find his daughters. Thanks to leads provided by a school counselor, the authorities learned that the girls were still in the area.

But a month went by without any update on the whereabouts of the fourteen-year-old twins.

People were instructed to keep an eye out for the sisters, and to get in touch with Detroit's 12th Precinct if they had any information regarding the girls' location.

The twins' discovery was made possible by a chain of curious and ostensibly unrelated events, beginning with the theft of a Nebraska teenager's debit card.

Peoples used the stolen debit card's information to purchase the hotel room in which the twins were staying. As soon as he used the card, the Nebraska teen received an alert from her bank.

The teen told her mom, Megan McQuain, who then called the hotel and the Allen Park Police Department.

When the police responded to the call, they were prepared for debit-card fraud.

But one of the officers happened to recognize the missing twins from a previous encounter.

McQuain was astonished to learn that her call led to the discovery of two missing teenagers.

'I didn't know that it was bigger than what it is until yesterday, and it was quite the shock- to say the least'.

She drew a lesson from the experience and said: 'If you see something, say something because if we wouldn't have checked on our credit cards right then and there, and if I would've just waited until the next day, it would've been, maybe, too late.'

'You never know,' McQuain added.

The twin sisters told officers that they didn't know Marcus Peoples, and that he only bought the hotel room for them so that they would have some place to stay.

Peoples told the police that his brother sent him the stolen card information and that he didn't know the information was stolen.

In the bodycam footage, the officer asked the twins why they had run away from home.

'Don't worry about it,' one of the twins answered, before adding: 'it's none of your business'.

Later in the video, one of the girls could be heard inquiring about foster care.

'If runaways don't want to go home, what would they do about it?'

'Yeah, what would they be able to do about it?' The other twin interjected.

'Put us in foster care?"

Police who responded to a call at the Comfort Inn in Allen Park thought that they were responding to a call involving debit-card fraud. To purchase a hotel room, Peoples used debit card information that belonged to a Nebraska teenager. When he used the card, the teenager received an alert and told her mother, who called the hotel and the police. When the police responded to the call, one of the officers recognized the missing twins and separated them from Peoples

The officer answered by saying that they would 'have to go home first,' and then they could get 'all that figured out'.

A few days before they went missing on March 8, the twins had made another runaway attempt, disappearing from their grandmother's house in River Rouge .

At the time, their sister posted on Facebook: 'Please help me find my 14-year-old little sisters'.

Their father had been able to locate them, but only a few days later they were missing again.

After the twins were safely found on April 8, Marcus Peoples was charged with fraud, using a stolen debit card, and harboring missing juveniles, according to authorities.

Peoples' bond was set at $150,000.
The Museum of the City of New York is launching a new exhibition to mark the anniversary of the busiest day ever recorded at Ellis Island on April 17, 1907.

Preservation in Progress: Picturing Immigration is an installation that offers visitors an exclusive peek into the conservation of one of the museums prized possessions: Samuel Bell Waughs monumental painting, The Bay and Harbor of New York.

The exhibition explores the paintings significance as one of the earliest depictions of immigration to the United States and a historical document.

The museum is also displaying striking photos of crowds arriving in America - as individuals flocked to the Big Apple' seeking freedom, safety, and a new beginning'.

Visitors can observe this exhibition until October 13, 2024.

Samuel Bell Waughs monumental painting, The Bay and Harbor of New York provides a rare depiction of early immigration

On April 17, 1907, Ellis Island processed 11,747 immigrants

On average, Ellis Island would process 5,000 immigrants a day

In April of 1907, the Port of New York received 197 ships and more than a quarter-million passengers from around the world, per the Ellis Island Foundation

In total, 1,004,756 immigrants were processed in the year 1907

An exterior photograph of the front facade of the Ellis Island immigration inspection station, known as the French Renaissance Revival building, from 1907

Ellis Island was the gateway in New York City for 12 million immigrants passing through to start a new life in America between 1892 and 1954

Pictured: A large group of immigrants lined up outside waiting to be taken off Ellis Island, by Edwin Levick, Ellis Island, New York, 1907

Pictured: A group of women and children eating a meal on Ellis Island, the long wooden tables close together to accommodate as many people as possible in this dining hall

Today the 27.5 acre island still greets about two million tourists a year, and received a $160 million renovation in 1990 to accommodate the visitors

Pictured: The pens at the Ellis Island Registry Room (or Great Hall), all filled with immigrants

While first and second-class passengers who arrived in the US were considered wealthy enough to be examined on ships to America, the poorer passengers underwent inspections at Ellis Island

Most successfully passed through in a matter of hours, but others could be detained for days or weeks

Pictured: A Vintage USA political cartoon from 1891, 'Where The Blame Lies with the caption: Judge (to Uncle Sam)--"If Immigration was properly restricted you would no longer be troubled with anarchy, socialism, the Mafia and such kindred evils!"

Pictured: A family fetching all of their belongings from the boat in 1905

Pictured: Immigrants stand with trunks outdoors in front of a building on Ellis Island in 1907

A flyer marketing a viewing of one of Waugh's artworks, who was known for his landscape and moving panorama paintings
The city of Denver has announced plans to defund the police to pay for the migrant crisis as the democrat city strips cops' budget of $8.4 million.

The sanctuary city's progressive Mayor Mike Johnston unveiled a budget proposal on Wednesday, allocating $89.9 million to assist incoming undocumented migrants, whom he refers to as 'newcomers.'

The amount will be drawn from approximately $45 million that's used for public programs and services.

As a result of this reallocation, the police and fire department are some of those expected to face budget cuts.

Johnston claimed this was the best option available to provide services to migrants.

The sanctuary city's progressive Mayor Mike Johnston unveiled a budget proposal on Wednesday, allocating $89.9 million to assist incoming undocumented migrants, whom he refers to as 'newcomers'

The city of Denver has announced plans to defund the police to pay for the migrant crisis as the democrat city strips cops' budget of $8.4 million

Homelessness in Denver, Colorado is a big problem - as is the drug use and mental health issues of many of those who find themselves on the streets

'After more than a year of facing this crisis together, Denver finally has a sustainable plan for treating our newcomers with dignity while avoiding the worst cuts to city services,' Johnston said at the press conference discussing 'Newcomer Operations and 2024 Budget.'

'So many times we were told that we couldn't be compassionate while still being fiscally responsible. Today is proof that our hardest challenges are still solvable, and that together we are the ones who will solve them.'

Denver plans to spend the $89.9 million on various migrant assistance programs in 2024, including $3 million to 'Program Administration,' $51.7 million to 'Shelter and Housing,' $9.7 million to 'Supportive Services,' $9.5 million to 'One Time Capital Costs' and $10 million to 'Contingency.'

As a result, the fire department is expected to experience budget cuts of about $2.5 million.

Additionally, the city confirmed that the police department will face an $8.4 million reduction, equivalent to nearly two percent of its total operating budget.

The city does not plan to layoff its city employees, however, the city anticipates saving nearly $20 million by refraining from hiring certain applicants for currently vacant positions across various city agencies.

About 160 positions out of the roughly 13,000 in Denver will remain unfilled.

Denver will also implement changes to the payment structure for 911 operators as part of cost-saving measures.

The city intends to utilize funds from its "911 trust fund" to compensate 911 operators in 2024, although the exact amount of savings resulting from this fund is uknown.

The mayor's office will undergo the highest percentage of budget reduction, with the city planning to slash 9.6 percent of funding from Mayor Johnston's office, totaling $335,155.

The Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency department will face a budget cut of about 6.1 percent, while Department of Transportation and Infrastructure is set to be cut by 3.8 percent.

As a result of this reallocation, the police and fire department are some of the departments that are expected to face budget cuts (Venezulean migrants wait in a line to get paper work to be admitted to shelters at a migrant processing center on May 9, 2023 in Denver, Colorado)

The amount will be drawn from approximately $45 million that's used for public programs and services (Migrants rest at a makeshift shelter, Jan. 6, 2023, in Denver)

Venezulean migrants wait to get paper work to be admitted to shelters at a migrant processing center on May 9, 2023 in Denver, Colorado

A migrant encampment seen in Denver, Colorado

Venezuelan migrants wait to be processed in Denver, Colorado. The sanctuary city, which already has 700,000 residents, has been struggling to stretch its limited housing

The Colorado capital has become inundated with new migrants crossing over the border - despite the fact the city is already at the brink in terms of resources.

With more than 40,000 arrivals in 2023 alone, the influx of migrants has contributed to a total migrant population of around 710,000 in the city.

In response, Denver has already spent over $42 million on migrant housing and medical services in 2023 and anticipates exceeding $100 million for similar expenses in 2024.

Denver, like other cities such as New York, are facing the brunt of the nationwide crisis of the flow of people at the southern border.

In January, Denver's progressive mayor Mike Johnston predicted the city would have to use 10 percent of its yearly budget on migrants - and will also need an additional $100 million to provide them with housing, schooling, and health care.


The new rector of Glasgow University has sparked fury after claiming that the institution actively colludes in the murder of innocent civilians.

Dr Ghassan Abu-Sittah, a British-Palestinian surgeon, won a landslide election for the post, attracting 80 per cent of the student vote.

The medic used heavily disputed statistics to claim that Israel is responsible for the deaths of 53,000 Palestinians  and in a speech to mark his appointment as rector he quoted IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands who said: Our revenge will be the laughter of our children.

During his campaign, Dr Abu-Sittah vowed to change the definition on campus of anti-Semitism, which he said undermined freedom of speech and intellectual thought  a promise that has provoked alarm among Jewish representatives.

It comes as Dr Abu-Sittah revealed on social media that yesterday he had been forcibly prevented from entering Germany to speak about his work in Gaza hospitals  and claimed he was a witness to genocide and an ongoing massacre.

Dr Ghassan Abu- Sittah during his rectorial address

Timothy Lovat, president of the Glasgow Jewish Representative Council, said: Students have endorsed someone who claims to understand anti-Semitism better than the Jewish community and seeks to make the university a less safe place to be Jewish.

If the university is committed to being an open and safe environment for all, and a place of open and free exchange of ideas, that must cause it as much concern as it does the Jewish community, and we therefore trust that they will fully investigate these charges and take such action as they are able, to mitigate the damage to the welfare of their students as well as to their own reputation.

Dr Abu-Sittah, 55, who was officially installed as rector on Thursday, tweeted yesterday on X: University of Glasgow owns 4.5million in shares in arms companies: BAE Systems, Thales, Leonardo and QinetiQ.

They supply the arms used by Israeli military to murder 53,000 Palestinians (14,000 children).

The University of Glasgow actively colludes in the murder of innocent civilians.

Dr Abu-Sittah will serve as rector of Glasgow University for three years

Last night Caroline Turner, director of UK Lawyers for Israel, claimed Dr Abu-Sittah had inflated the statistics produced by the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, which themselves appear to be fabricated according to several analyses by expert statisticians.

She said he is a totally unsuitable person to be rector of the university and to represent all students.

Dr Abu-Sittah was contacted for comment. He has in the past said he opposes terrorism and anti-Semitism. He will serve as rector for three years.

Glasgow University said it was the first higher education institution to call for the immediate release of all hostages and a humanitarian ceasefire.

A spokesman said: The rectors views do not represent those of the university.
A man has told of his terror at being repeatedly stabbed by an Islamic extremist he shared a house with when he burst into his bedroom during the early hours.

Javed Nouri, 31, had feared for his safety and warned Home Office housing managers and police about 'crazy' Moroccan Ahmed Alid, 45, who routinely carried a knife, but no action was taken.

'I told them that we are not safe here... he could attack us at any moment.'

Alid, who allegedly murdered a pensioner at random minutes after attempting to murder Mr Nouri, said he came to the UK after being refused asylum in Germany and was waiting to bring his family here as well.

The other asylum seekers sharing the Home Office accommodation in Hartlepool soon became aware of his 'extremist' views and were frightened of him too.

Teesside Crown Court heard Alid was inspired by the Hamas attack on Israelis last October to launch his own murderous rampage. His first target was housemate Mr Nouri, who had converted from Islam to Christianity, and in Alid's view 'deserved to die.'

Alid (pictured) denies murder, attempted murder and assaulting both police officers

The bedroom in Wharton Terrace after the alleged attack by Moroccan asylum seeker Alid

Mr Nouri said: 'I woke up and I saw somebody had broken into my bedroom. He stabbed me in my heart as soon as he entered my bedroom.'

Alid repeated shouted 'Allahu Akbar' as he stabbed his housemate with a knife six times.

'It was dark but I could see the knife shining in his hand and I was screaming, what are you doing?'

Mr Nouri was stabbed in the mouth before managing to get Alid in a headlock and force him out the door.

'It was a nightmare. I was sleepy, I didn't know what was going on, I was very frightened.'

At that point he feared he was dying. He said: 'I felt I won't be seeing my family anymore because I was getting out of breath and it feels like I am breathing my last breaths.

'I kept reminding myself to stay awake and don't let go and don't pass out.'

The court heard how he stemmed the bleeding with a blanket and managed to phone a friend for help.

'It was terrible, it was terrifying,' he said.

Alid fled the house and walked into town where he came across pensioner Terence Carney, 70, on an early morning walk and stabbed him to death.

Police, alerted by a 999 call from Mr Nouri's housemate, found Mr Carney and arrested Alid a short time later.

The knife that was found by police in the address at Wharton Terrace

Alid also allegedly tried to knife his housemate on the same day outside this house in Wharton Terrace

The scene on Wharton Terrace in Hartlepool following the incident where a police cordon was put in place

In an interview with police played to the jury, Mr Nouri said the knife attack by Alid took place eight days after shocking headlines about Hamas terrorist atrocities.

Mr Nouri recalled Alid watching coverage of the Hamas attacks on his phone when they were in the shared kitchen.

'He was looking at the Hamas and Israel war and the fact that Hamas was killing Israelis and they are cutting children's heads off and killing wives and shooting them,' Mr Nouri said.

'He was sitting on the kitchen chair and checking the news on his mobile phone. He was laughing and every time they would kill somebody he would praise God.'

Mr Nouri spoke to a housemate and asked: 'How could somebody be happy with seeing humans getting killed?'

He added: 'I was very upset from that night and I have seen something terrible and frightening in his eyes.'

Alid denies murder, attempted murder and two counts of assaulting detectives after he was arrested.

The trial continues.
Former drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman is now begging a federal court in New York to reinstate his phone call and visitation rights while he languishes at the ADX Florence super maximum security prison in Colorado.

The 67-year-old co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, who once boasted about being behind the killing of 2,000 to 3,000 people, moaned that he has been feeling lonely ever since his rights as a prisoner were stripped away in a letter he penned on March 20.

In the missive, which was filed in court Tuesday, Guzman pleaded with judge Brian Cogan to allow his wife Emma Coronel, to visit him and asked that he be permitted to talk to couple's twin daughters over the phone.

'Sorry to bother you again with the request that I have asked you before with regards to my wife, Emma Coronel,' Guzman wrote in the letter.

'I ask that you please authorize her to visit me and to bring my daughters to visit me, since my daughters can only visit me when they are on school break, since they are studying in Mexico.'

The former cartel boss showed his softer side despite proudly running a drug empire that saw thousands slaughtered - and millions more affected by his illegal wares.

Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman penned a letter to federal judge Brian Cogan in New York requesting that his wife be allowed to visit him in prison and that the two 15-minute phone calls with the couple's 12-year-old twin daughters be reinstated

Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman's wife, Emma Coronel, was released from U.S. federal custody in September 2023 after she completed 31 months of a 36-month sentence that was handed down by a Washington, D.C. federal court in November 2021 after she pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering

El Chapo spends 23 hours locked in a 7-by-12-foot concrete cell at ADX Florence, a super maximum security jail in Colorado

Guzman also petitioned Cogan to restore his right to speak with the 12-year-old girls twice a month for 15 minutes.

He claimed that he had not spoken with them since May 2023, when the jail stopped authorizing the phone calls.

'I have asked when they are going to give me a call with my daughters and the staff here told me that the FBI agent who monitors the calls does not answer,' he wrote. 'That's all they've told me. I ask you to please continue giving me the two calls that you authorized me per month. I don't understand why the prosecutor who is in charge of the SAMs Rules stopped authorizing calls with my daughters.'

The former kingpin spends 23 hours locked in a 7-by-12-foot concrete cell with double doors in a section dubbed 'Range 13.

He is supervised round-the-clock and he is prohibited from mingling with the inmate population.

Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman was convicted by a federal court in New York in February 2019

El Chapo is allowed to spend only one hour outside the concrete jail cell where he is spending the rest of his life

Guzman has often complained of the jail conditions ever since he was found guilty in by a federal jury in February 2019 on 10 counts that included drug trafficking money laundering and the use of a fire arm to carry out crimes.

In March 2022, his lawyer, Mariel Colon, told Mexican network Milenio that the prison staff was violating his rights.

'They don't take him out into the open air, they don't take him out for a single day,' Colon alleged at the time. 'We've had a lot of problems because they don't treat him medically if he gets sick. The requests are ignored.'

She claimed that the prison staff had also denied El Chapo access to water and dental treatment for his molars.

She told Noticias Univision in 2019 that he was having vision problems and that he had complained of a bad haircut because the barbers could not communicate with him in Spanish.

'He looks much skinnier, a little more stifled. He is not doing well there,' Colon said at the time. 'It is the saddest I have ever seen him.'

Ovidio Guzman, El Chapo's son, was extradited from Mexico to Chicago in September 2023 to face charges of smuggling drugs over the border

The Drug Enforcement Administration is offering a $10 million reward for information that leads to the arrest and/or conviction of Jesus Guzman, one of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman's three who now operate half of the Sinaloa Cartel after their brother, Ovidio Guzman, was extradited to the United States last week

Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar (pictured) joined his brother, Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar, in the DEA's 10 most-wanted list

Joaquin Guzman is one of El Chapo's four sons who took over the Sinaloa Cartel following his arrest and extradition to the United States. But now only three remain in power after their sibling, Ovidio Guzman, was handed over by Mexican authorities last Friday

Guzman was once consider the most powerful drug trafficker in the world - after Colombian Pablo Escobar - and was extradited from Mexico in January 2017 after he was recaptured in January 2016 following his second prison escape in June 2015 via a tunnel that his organization had constructed underneath the jail.

Prior to that, he had been on the run for 13 years after he snuck out of prison on a laundry cart in January 2001.

His wife was released from U.S. federal custody in September 2023 after she completed 31 months of a 36-month sentence that was handed down by a Washington, D.C. federal court in November 2021 after she pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering.

His son, Ovidio Guzman was extradited from Mexico to Chicago in September to face drug trafficking charges.

Guzman's other three sons, Ivan Guzman, Jesus Guzman and Joaquin Guzman, are wanted by the U.S. government on similar charges.
The United States, Japan and the Philippines affirmed their commitment to the "complete" denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and denounced North Korea's growing military threats in their joint statement Thursday.

Following their countries' first-ever trilateral summit in Washington, President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued the "joint vision" statement, noting Pyongyang's provocative actions have "severe security implications" for the Indo-Pacific and Europe.

The three-way summit is part of the Biden administration's initiative to create a "lattice-like" network of regional allies for multilayered cooperation in the face of China's growing assertiveness, Russia's protracted war against Ukraine and North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats.

"Our three nations affirm our commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and strongly condemn the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) escalatory threats and unprecedented number of ballistic missile launches, including multiple intercontinental ballistic missile launches, which pose a grave threat to peace and security," they said in the statement.

DPRK is the North's official name.

The leaders also "strongly" urged the North to comply with U.N. Security Council resolutions and refrain from continued development, testing and transfer of ballistic missiles to any country, including Russia.

They pointed out that Russia has used North Korean missiles against Ukraine, while reiterating their "unwavering" support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

In addition, they emphasized the importance of addressing human rights and humanitarian concerns about North Korea, including the immediate resolution of the abductions issue.

On China, they expressed "serious" concerns about its "dangerous and aggressive" behavior in the South China Sea, while reiterating their "strong" opposition to any attempts by China to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea.

"We are also concerned by the militarization of reclaimed features and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea," they said. "We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries' offshore resource exploitation."

The three sides announced the establishment of a trilateral maritime dialogue to enhance coordination and collective responses to promote maritime cooperation and unveiled a plan to conduct a maritime training activity around Japan next year.

They also decried Russia's threats of nuclear weapon use amid the war in Ukraine as "unacceptable."

"We state unequivocally that any use of a nuclear weapon by Russia in Ukraine would be completely unjustifiable," he said.

Moreover, the leaders welcomed U.S.-led groupings for regional stability, including the trilateral cooperation framework, involving South Korea, the U.S. and Japan, and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue that consists of the U.S., Australia, India and Japan. (Yonhap)
Best known for his use of printed leather, Cavalli became a world-renowned icon

Former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham and designer Giorgio Armani have led tributes to Roberto Cavalli following announcement of his death on Friday after a long illness.

Sharing a tribute on her Instagram stories, Beckham posted a photo of herself holding hands with Cavalli whilst he had his hand raised and made the peace sign.

She wrote: 'So sorry to hear the sad news of Roberto's passing. He'll forever be an icon.'

Giorgio Armani had high praise for the 'true artist', writing on Twitter/X: 'I cannot imagine a vision of fashion more distant from mine than that of Roberto Cavalli, yet I have always had enormous respect for him.'

He continued: 'Roberto was a true artist, wild and wonderful in his use of prints, capable of transforming fantasy into seductive clothes. I have learnt with great sadness of his passing: his Tuscan verve will be greatly missed.'

Brazilian model Adriana Lima said alongside a picture of her and Cavalli on X: 'Unapologetic in style & spirit. We lost a legend today. Rest in Peace, @Roberto-Cavalli'.

Roberto Cavalli, whose penchant for python and flamboyant animal prints made him the darling of the international jet set for decades, died aged 83 on Friday, his luxury brand said.

'It is with deep regret and a great sadness the Roberto Cavalli Maison participates in the passing of its founder Roberto Cavalli,' wrote the company in a statement.

'From humble beginnings in Florence Mr. Cavalli succeeded in becoming a globally recognised name loved and respected by all,' the statement continued.

Former Spice Girl and designer Victoria Beckham shared a photo of her arriving with Cavalli at the Swarovski Fashion Rocks for the Prince's Trust in Monaco, Monday, October 17, 2005

Roberto Cavalli during Milan Menswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2008

Roberto Cavalli and the Spice Girls attend the Roberto Cavalli Menswear Autumn/Winter 2008/2009 fashion show in Milan, January 14, 2008

Italian news agency ANSA reported that the designer died at home in Florence, the city where he was born, after a long illness.

Tributes have flooded in for Cavalli, whose work has been worn by a host of stars over the years, including Brigitte Bardot, Kim Kardashian, Nicki Minaj and Jennifer Lopez.

American singer and actress Jennifer Hudson wrote on the Twitter/X: 'Roberto Cavalli was always one of my favorite designers. A true artist in every sense of the word!

'He made the world a more beautiful place and will be dearly missed. May he rest in peace!'

Italian President Giorgia Meloni wrote on Twitter/X: 'With the passing of Roberto Cavalli, Italy and the world of fashion lose a great entrepreneur and innovator.

'His name will forever and everywhere remain synonymous with style. My deepest condolences go to his loved ones.'

Responding to the news, PETA President Ingrid Newkirk said: 'Roberto Cavalli said of his fascination with animal prints and fur: "I love nature. Animals have the best dresses. God made them so well-dressed."

'But people with a true reverence for nature choose to protect animals, not persecute them, as PETA made clear to the designer when we crashed his furry catwalks.

'Before he passed, his namesake brand finally embraced luxurious faux fur, proving that imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery. We hope that his admirersand anyone who cares about wildlifewill choose to do the same.'

American singer Aaliyah wrote on Twitter/X: 'We are sadden to hear the passing of the fashion legend,

'Not only did he play a huge role in the fashion world, but for Aaliyahs fashion imagery, currating her most iconic looks, from red carpet dresses, & music videos outfits [sic].

'Rest In Paradise, Roberto.'

Italian designer Roberto Cavalli poses for a photo, in Sydney, Australia, 30 October 2012

Roberto Cavalli and his partner Sandra Nilsson together in a photo shared on social media

Born November 15, 1940 in Florence, Italy's premier leatherworking centre, Cavalli was known for his use of printed leather and stretchy, sand-blasted jeans.

The designer was tapped in 2005 to update the Playboy Bunnies' scanty uniform - true to form, he introduced one version in leopard print.

First seen in the 1970s on stars such as Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot, Cavalli's skin-baring, eye-popping styles were still favoured years on by later generations of celebrities, from Kim Kardashian to Jennifer Lopez.

Cavalli had a taste for Ferraris, fat cigars and tailored shirts unbuttoned to expose his tanned chest.

He married a Miss Universe runner-up, owned a purple helicopter and a Tuscan vineyard, and was on a first-name basis with Hollywood A-listers.

But the designer also weathered challenges, including a dry spell in the 1980s when minimalism took hold on runways and his form-fitting, feathered creations looked out of step.

A years-long trial in Italy on tax evasion charges ultimately ended in Cavalli's acquittal, but after his eponymous fashion house began posting losses, a majority stake was sold to private equity in 2015.

Best known for his use of printed leather and stretchy, sand-blasted jeans, Cavalli always embraced the wow factor in his designs, never encountering an animal print he did not like.

Of his ubiquitous use of prints, the animal lover - whose menagerie once included a monkey - told Vogue in 2011: 'I like everything that is of nature.'

'I started to appreciate that even fish have a fantastic coloured 'dress', so does the snake, and the tiger. I start(ed) to understand that God is really the best designer, so I started to copy God,' he told the magazine.

In the 1980s Cavalli's instantly recognisable, exotic designs were out of sync with the minimalist look that was all the rage, but the designer came back with a bang a decade later with distressed looking jeans that proved a hit.

His fashion empire expanded to home furnishings, wine, shoes, jewellery and even a line of vodka, its bottle sheathed in snakeskin.

Taking his style to the high street, he designed a fast-fashion line for Swedish retail giant H&M and tour outfits for Beyonce, among others.

But the label began to suffer financial difficulties amid increased competition from well-funded brands owned by fashion conglomerates LVMH and Kering, and Cavalli stepped down as creative director in 2013.

Two years later, Milan-based private equity group Clessidra bought a 90-percent stake in the company, but a restructuring failed to reverse losses.

After filing for administration and closing its US stores, the fashion group was bought in November 2019 by Vision Investments, the private investment company of Dubai real-estate billionaire Hussain Sajwani.

Roberto Cavalli at Andy & Patti Wong's Chinese New Year party 2007 at the County Hall Gallery on January 26th 2008 in London

Sergio Azzolari, chief executive of Roberto Cavalli, confirmed the fashion designer had died

Cavalli was born on November 15, 1940 in Florence, Italy's premier leatherworking centre, and began painting on T-shirts to earn money while at art school.

He recalled in his blog in 2012 how he gate-crashed a party in 1970, and, seeking to save face when he met the host, who was a designer, told him that he printed on leather.

When the designer asked to see some of his work the next day, Cavalli hurried to find samples of thin, supple leather onto which he printed a flower design.

The designer was impressed, and Cavalli was hooked.

Taking his inspiration from glove design, Cavalli began working with calfskin, patenting a new way to print leather with patterns that soon caught the eye of French luxury goods maker Hermes and the late designer Pierre Cardin.

In the 1970s, he opened a shop in Saint Tropez, playground of the world's glitterati, and debuted his collection in Paris.

He went on to present for the first time in Italy at Florence's opulent Palazzo Pitti, grabbing attention with his boho-chic patchwork designs on denim that married the unpretentious fabric with expert tailoring.
The BBC breached its own accuracy rules after it failed to mention that murderer and cat killer Scarlet Blake was a trans woman in initial reports of her conviction and sentencing.

The broadcaster received a wave of complaints about how Blake's trans identity was not mentioned in an online article on February 23 and during the BBC News at One bulletin three days later.

The reports referred to Blake - who was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Jorge Carreno in Oxford in 2021 - as a woman and used she/her pronouns.

In a ruling published yesterday, the BBC's Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) said it 'considered that the omission of such information in the two instances specified by complainants, in a context where it had become material to an understanding of the case, amounted to a breach of the BBC's standards of accuracy'.

But the complaints were 'resolved' not 'upheld' according to the ECU, because the online article was changed within an hour of publishing and a notice regarding the TV report was posted on the BBc website.

Scarlet Blake, pictured in August last year, was convicted at Oxford Crown Court

BMW worker Mr Carreno (pictured) had been on a night out when he was approached by Blake

The BBC breached its own accuracy rules after it failed to mention that murderer and cat killer Scarlet Blake was a trans woman in initial reports of her conviction and sentencing

The unit said that the 26-year-old's trans identity became known to the BBC when it was mentioned by the defence during the trial on February 19 - four days before the first complained-about report.

It added that that 'police made no reference to it [Blake's gender identity] in their pre-trial briefing, it formed no part of the prosecution case, and Blake was referred to as a woman throughout the court proceedings'.

The decision by the ECU comes after Harry Potter JK Rowling hit out at media reports that classed Blake as a woman.

Sharing a post by Sky News on X, the author used the caption: 'I'm sick of this s***. This is not a woman. These are #NotOurCrimes.'

The headline by Sky News read: 'BREAKING: A woman who filmed herself killing a cat before putting the animal in a blender has been jailed for life for murdering a man four months later.'

Award-winning journalist Louise Tickle, who was written for The Guardian for over 20 years, also boycotted the newspaper after it initially failed to tell its readers that Blake was transgender in an article covering the case.

In a letter to the editor of The Guardian, Ms Tickle said she would not be contributing to the newspaper until it could 'demonstrate' what 'constitutes a fact' and 'stops deceiving its readers'.

Blake stalked and killed 30-year-old Jorge Martin Carreno (pictured) in July 2021

Scarlet Blake pictured in Intrusion nightclub in Oxford

She explained that upon reading the article about Blake last week, she was left unaware that Blake was a 'male killer' because the word 'transgender' was not included in the piece.

The Guardian included a note on its article to state: 'This article was updated on 23 February 2024 to add further details and biographical information, including reference to Scarlet Blake's transgender identity, which were not included in the agency copy on which our initial version relied.'

Blake will serve at least 24 years in a male prision after she targeted the 30-year-old BMW worker as he walked home from a night out in Oxford on July 24, 2021.

She was inspired by the Netflix Documentary Don't F*** With Cats and live-streamed the killing and dissection of a cat four months before she murdered Jorge Martin Carreno.

She led him to a secluded riverbank, where he was hit on the back of the head with a vodka bottle, strangled and then pushed into the River Cherwell where he drowned.

Jailing Scarlet Blake for life with a minimum term of 24 years, Mr Justice Chamberlain said the defendant had intended to kill Jorge Martin Carreno although he could not be sure of the exact method used.

'It is not possible to say exactly how, whether you hit him on the back of his head with a vodka bottle or something else you had in your backpack, then strangled him by applying pressure to the blood vessels just beneath his jaw using your hands or ligature, then putting in the river where he drowned,' the judge said.

'You may have held him down in the water while strangling him. Either way, you intended to kill him, and you did.

'The decision to kill Jorge was not a reaction to something he had said or done - it was not a momentary mistake, it was not a decision made in anger or because your emotions overcame you.

'It is the culmination of a plan you've been considering and formulating for months before, and after July 25 as you showed an obsession with harm and death.'

Blake got away with Mr Carreno's murder for two years before her ex-partner Ashlynn Bell tipped off police.

A still image from a video issued by police of Scarlet Blake holding a cat head after killing it

The court heard Blake confessed to former partner Ashlynn Bell (pictured), who lives in the US, that she had killed him with a homemade garrotte before throwing his body in the water

A blazing row between her and sex worker Ashlynn Bell  during which guns were pulled  led to police being tipped off about her confession.

The Mail revealed that the case rested on information provided by Ms Bell, who didn't give evidence because prosecutors feared she would ruin their chance of a conviction.

Messages between the pair recovered by detectives showed a dark fascination with violence and death, with scarcely an exchange passing without reference to murder or self harm.

Photographs show that Ms Bell has a fearsome collection of military-grade weapons and equipment as well as a liking for Nazi memorabilia.

She also advertised herself on a website for trans prostitutes in Texas, where she charges $100 an hour for her services.

Photographs on the site showed her posing with an AK-47 assault rifle and wearing cat ears.

The pair met during the pandemic on Discord, a secretive online messaging platform.

They joined an invite-only group dedicated to 'artistically rendered gore' in which users would trade sickening self-harm images.

The messages between Blake and Ms Bell recovered by detectives showed them openly discussing killing, including one in which Blake said: 'F*** I need blood, this is bad.'

In another, Ms Bell said the combat jacket Blake wore to kill Mr Carreno had a 'serial killer musk' after she had posted it to the US at her lover's request.

The BBC did not wish to provide any further comment when approached by MailOnline.
A British-Palestinian surgeon who sparked controversy for his comments on the Israel-Palestine conflict said authorities in Germany had refused him entry on Friday, claiming the government was 'silencing a witness to genocide'.

Professor Ghassan Abu Sittah, who received backlash after hailing the mastermind behind the 2018 drive-by killing of Rabi Raziel Shevach as a 'hero', said on Twitter/X he had been 'forcibly prevented' from entering the country to speak at a conference 'about my work in Gaza hospitals'.

He was due to attend 'The Palestine Conference. We will put you on trial', an event calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, allegedly targeted by German pro-Israel organisations in recent weeks, inspiring calls for it to be banned.

The event was abruptly shut down this evening when Berlin police cut off power to the hall where the conference was being held, warning pro-Palestine attendees and speakers 'we will prosecute you' earlier this evening. Police said they had dispatched 930 officers to secure the event.

Abu Sittah became one of the most prominent voices in the beleaguered Palestinian enclave after travelling to Gaza on October 9, two days after the conflict erupted, to attend to the wounded and report on the challenges facing the civilian population.

But the medic has since been put under investigation by the University of Glasgow, where he was recently appointed rector, after UK Lawyers for Israel referred the institution 'offensive social media tweets' shared by Abu Sittah, commenting on the longstanding conflict.

Abu Sittah said authorities in Germany had refused him entry on Friday, claiming the government was 'silencing a witness to genocide'

Police announce the termination of the Palestinian Congress and request all participants to vacate the premises on April 12, 2024 in Berlin, Germany

Intensive security measures were implemented by the police both outside and within the venue hosting the congress

Pro-Palestinian chants echoed through the vicinity as attendees converged for the event

Medical staff and patients in the En-Neccar Hospital in Rafah in Gaza on December 27

Writing on Twitter/X this afternoon, Dr Abu Sittah said: 'Invited to address a conference in Berlin about my work in Gaza hospitals during the present conflict.

'The German government has forcibly prevented me from entering the country[.]

READ MORE: Fury as Gaza war surgeon who hailed terrorist behind murder of Israeli rabbi as a 'hero' is elected rector of the University of Glasgow Advertisement

'Silencing a witness to genocide before the ICJ adds to Germany's complicity in the ongoing massacre.'

He followed the post: 'They are accomplaces in the crime and that is what accomplaces do. They burry the evidence and silence the witnesses. They are admitting to the Nicaraguan charges at the ICJ [sic].'

Later on, he claimed he was being made to leave the country, writing: 'Always important to have a good book to read when you're being deported.'

Abu Sittah shared a picture of 'We Are Free to Change the World: Hannah Arendt's Lessons in Love and Disobedience', a book exploring the Jewish philosopher's experience of escaping the Holocaust and influential writings on totalitarianism and political action in the 20th century.

Arendt's philosophical writings - and reporting on the 1961 trial of Adolf Eichmann in Jerusalem - were controversial among America's Jewish community. She opposed the partition of Palestine and was critical of Zionism, with nuanced and oscillating views on the matter throughout her lifetime.

Since being appointed as rector, Dr Abu-Sittah has sought to change the University of Glasgow's definition of anti-Semitism to remove linking any criticism of Israel with the term, distinguishing between criticism of Zionism and anti-Semitism.

He stated in his campaign manifesto: 'While I am absolutely committed to tackling all forms of anti-Semitism, it is my belief that, by linking criticism of Israel to antisemitism, this definition threatens academic criticism of Israel and Palestinian solidarity events.

'My fear, shared by the University and Colleges Union, is that such a definition risks undermining freedom of speech and intellectual thought on campus.'

Professor Ghassan Abu-Sittah (pictured) returned to the UK after travelling to Gaza in October

Police wait after announcing the termination of the Palestinian Congress and requested all participants to vacate the premises as people attend Palestinian Congress

Abu Sittah was due to attend 'The Palestine Conference. We will put you on trial', an event allegedly targeted by German pro-Israel organisations in recent weeks

Jewish students at the University of Glasgow raised concerns following Dr Abu Sittah's appointment.

Dorothy Sheratt, co-president of Glasgow's Jewish Society said: 'We express deep concern and fear over the election of Ghassan Abu Sittah as the new Rector.

'Someone who eulogises proscribed terrorists (as defined in the US and EU) can not lead the university or fulfil the rector's obligation to provide pastoral care to all students, equally.'

Abu-Sittah faced allegations he had shared offensive posts on social media. The Jewish Chronicle also revealed he had hailed Ahmad Jarrar, who organised the murder of father-of-six Rabbi Raziel Shevach near Nablus in 2018, calling him one of Palestine's 'dearest and best sons' and a 'hero'.

'The martyrdom of the resistance member Ahmed Nasr Jarrar, the hero of the Nablus operation, at the hands of the Zionist occupation army like the hundreds of resistance fighters who were martyred at the hands of this satanic alliance, represents a pivotal moment,' he wrote in Lebanese newspaper Al Akhbar.

A year later, he was pictured sitting next to Leila Khaled, a member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) who is noted for her role in the hijacking of TWA Flight 840 in 1969.

The PFLP took control of the plane travelling from Rome to Tel Aviv, carrying an American diplomat, and forced its landing in Syria, where they blew up the nose section of the aircraft.

There were no fatalities, but at least two passengers suffered light injuries.

Criticism of Abu Sittah's associations and social media conduct provoked a probe by the university, confirmed by Principal and Vice Chancellor Sir Anton Muscatelli.

Sir Anton Muscatelli wrote to the UKLFI advocacy group saying: 'The Rector is a wholly independent role (separate from University senior management) with no executive authority in the University, and whilst the Rector is free to express their thoughts and represent those of students- indeed this has been the case throughout history- we are clear these views are independent and do not represent those of the University.'

In video shared online, the doctor was seen finishing his address after becoming rector, quoting MP and Provisional IRA member Bobby Sands in saying 'our revenge will be the laughter of our children'.

He also took the time to pay tribute to colleagues and 'our land' in Palestine in a teary address, receiving applause from the crowd.

The appointment continues to divide, former Royal Navy warfare officer Chris Parry writing on Twitter/X: 'What a disgrace.'

Palestinian Dr. Abu-Sittah becomes Rector of Glasgow University and addresses students

He was pictured sitting next to plane hijacker and member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine , Leila Khaled at a memorial service in 2019

Abu Sittah returned from Gaza to east London after 44 days in Gaza treating patients and collaborated with Scotland Yard to help the International Criminal Court investigate alleged war crimes in the Israel-Hamas war.

He said earlier this year he hopes that by providing evidence of his time working in the strip, international bodies will 're-establish the norms of war that emerged after the Second World War', which he argues have been broken since the 'watershed' conflict began in October.

The doctor, who is an honoury professor at King's College London and Imperial College London, previously worked throughout other bloody wars in Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

He went on to become a founding member of the conflict medicine programme at the American University of Beirut.
HBO released the official trailer for 'The Jinx Part Two,' a sequel to their Emmy-winning docuseries that chronicled the life and crimes of Robert Durst.

The new trailer showed Durst, 78, relishing his reputation as a convicted murdered and featured a clip of him brazenly waving from prison.

'The Jinx' debuted in 2015 and led to the arrest and murder conviction of the New York real-estate scion.

The six-episode 'continuation' will air this month, and the first episode will be available on April 21.

The series will follow Durst's arrest and trial for the murder of his best friend, Susan Berman, as well as his death behind bars at the age of 78 in January 2022 - just four months into a life sentence.

In the trailer for 'The Jinx Part Two,' murderer Robert Durst, 78, waved creepily from his prison cell

In the trailer, Durst seemed to be enjoying his notoriety, bragging about his fame. 'I am getting my own 15 minutes,' Durst boasted of all the attention. 'It is gargantuan,' he added. Pictured; an elderly Durst attending his trial

The trailer featured many blood-curdling moments, one of them being a clip of Durst waving in prison. In the clip, he was wearing an orange prison jumpsuit, and he squatted down awkwardly before waving with both hands.

Toward the end of the trailer, a recording of Durst's voice seemed to capture the disgraced real-estate magnate boasting about his notoriety and fame.

'I am getting my own 15 minutes,' Durst said without evident shame.

'And it is gargantuan,' he added.

The trailer included dramatic re-enactments of events surrounding Durst's arrest. Charles Bagli, a reporter with the New York Times, said he spoke with Durst after every episode of the original series aired.

In the trailer, the reporter said that Durst had been 'very nervous'.

'I thought to myself,' Bagli said; 'he's gonna run'.

LA Deputy DA John Lewin echoed this sentiment, telling the camera: 'Bob was gonna flee the country, never to return'.

'And of course that didn't happen,' he added.

The trailer teased some of the recordings the filmmakers acquired of Durst's calls from prison.

One of the recordings was from shortly after Durst was arrested. In the audio, he said: 'Steve, I was arrested'.

To which, 'Steve' tersely replied: 'oh boy'.

'Yep,' Durst said.

HBO will soon release a sequel to The Jinx, the heralded 2015 docuseries that led to the arrest and murder conviction of New York real estate scion Robert Durst. Durst is pictured here in December 2016 and died in prison in January 2022

Durst was convicted for the December 2000 murder of Susan Berman (with him above) who had fiercely defended Durst after his wife Kathleen McCormack Durst disappeared in 1982

In another interaction, Durst told a woman that she should 'expect a call from the DA'.

'You don't tell them s***,' Durst said and could be seen holding a prison phone tightly to his ear.

Deputy DA John Lewin then provided narration for the trailer, saying provocatively: 'Turns out when you have a whole lot of money, people are willing to do things for ya'.

As Lewin spoke, the trailer showed footage of cash being printed and a picture of several checks signed by Durst.

'Because,' Lewin continued, 'they think some of that money might go their way'.

The trailer then showed footage of different Durst confidantes on the phone with him. One of the women smiled as Durst waved to her.

Robert Durst was set to stand trial for the murder of his wife, Kathie, who disappeared in 1982 and was presumed legally dead in 2017. They are pictured at their wedding in 1971

Deputy District Attorney Habib A. Balian holds a rubber latex mask, worn by Robert Durst when police arrested him on New Orleans in 2015

New York real estate heir Robert Durst appears in court during opening statements in his murder trial on March 5, 2020 in Los Angeles

'Everybody's gonna work together to get me out of here,' Durst said in a raspy voice.

The trailer then showed Nick Chavin, who was a friend of Durst and a friend of Durst's victim, Susan Berman.

The trailer showed a picture of the three of them together.

'What do you do when your best friend kills your other best friend?' Chavin asked the camera.

At the end of the trailer, footage from the courtroom showed a frail-looking Durst. He was wheelchair-bound and spoke from behind a plastic mask.

At one point, Durst warned a confidant that the DA would want to speak with her. He instructed her not to 'tell them s***'

Durst is seen in a 2001 mugshot, when he faced a capital murder charge in Texas

In an explosive moment, Durst appeared to address someone in the court, saying: 'I lied to you you'.

Then the trailer showed another clip of Durst waving to someone, his hand wrinkled and his fingers wriggling.

The trailer ended with an image of Durst from after he was arrested. He was grinning in the back of a vehicle, wearing an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs.

HBO says part two will include 'hidden material' from an additional eight years of their investigation, as well as Dursts prison calls, and interviews with people who have never before come forward.

Just hours before The Jinx finale episode aired in March 2015, Durst was sensationally arrested by the FBI at a New Orleans hotel, where he had registered under the false name 'Everette Ward'.

He was charged with, and later convicted of, the December 2000 murder of Susan Berman, a longtime friend who had fiercely defended Durst after his wife Kathleen McCormack Durst disappeared in 1982, never to be seen again.

The original series memorably closed with Durst mumbling to himself in a bathroom while still wearing hot mic saying: 'Youre caught. What the hell did I do? Killed them all, of course.'

New York real estate heir Robert Durst appears in court during opening statements in his murder trial on March 5, 2020 in Los Angeles

Robert Durst, convicted murderer and subject of the HBO true crime doc, 'The Jinx,' died while serving a life sentence in prison. He was 78-years-old. He is pictured on March 17, 2015

The quotes were later revealed to have been manipulated for dramatic effect but the production  done with Dursts cooperation against the advice of his lawyer  dredged up new evidence, including an envelope that connected Durst to the scene of Bermans killing, as well as incriminating statements he made.

Durst was sentenced to life for Berman's murder. Prosecutors alleged his motive was to prevent her from revealing what she knew about the 1982 disappearance of his wife, who was later declared legally dead.

A week after his sentencing in Berman's murder, Durst was indicted for Kathleen's murder.

His death left a puzzle of unanswered questions surrounding her unsolved case, and renewed public interest into the deluded misdeeds of one of America's most bizarre killers.
Royal Marines are poised to lead a 'Dunkirk-style' evacuation of thousands of UK nationals from the Middle East should Iran launch a missile strike on Israel.

Commandos have already conducted reconnaissance along the Lebanese coastline ahead of a potential maritime rescue mission.

Tonight, speaking exclusively to the Mail, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed he 'stands ready' to assist any Britons trapped in the region.

The Foreign Office has already advised all UK citizens to leave Lebanon.

Tonight US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said there remained a 'serious threat' of attack while it was reported that Iran had sent a message to Washington warning them against the involvement of US troops in the region.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps on a visit to Catterick Garrison, in North Yorkshire, to tour the base and meet troops

The evacuation plans, codenamed Operation Meteoric, will be spearheaded by the UK's 'Green Berets' and supported by the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.

The Mail has been told a party of Marines from 30 Commando arrived in the region in recent days.

Operation Meteoric has been likened to Operation Dynamo, the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of allied soldiers from Dunkirk in 1940 when they were surrounded by German forces.

Israel and its allies remain braced for a huge Iranian response to the attack on its Syrian consulate earlier this month, which left 13 dead, including a senior Iranian commander.

While Israel has not claimed responsibility for the blast it is widely considered to have been behind it.

Iran's response may also involve the heavily armed military group Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon.

Tonight, intelligence reports suggested the retaliation could include more than 100 drones, dozens of cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.

Such a scenario would likely lead to civilian 'air bridges' shutting down  hence the need for a maritime solution.

Defence Minister Grant Shapps confirmed he 'stands ready' to assist any Britons trapped in the region

Commandos have already conducted reconnaissance along the Lebanese coastline ahead of a potential maritime rescue mission

The Royal Navy's new minehunting 'mothership', RFA Stirling Castle, which has recently arrived at its new home on the Clyde

The Mail has been told how the preparatory work behind Operation Meteoric was conducted by the Royal Marines' Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron (SRS).

They studied stretches of the Lebanese coastline and selected potential locations for such a rescue mission.

Stranded civilians would be ferried from beaches in raiding craft to Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) ships in the eastern Mediterranean.

While it is understood Iran is eager to avoid direct engagement with UK forces, RAF Typhoon jets based in Cyprus could provide 'top cover'.

Tonight Mr Shapps told the Mail: 'UK nationals in the region will be concerned by what Iran is threatening to do. So we stand ready to assist them.

'There are plans, but they cannot be discussed for security reasons.'

Tonight the IDF confirmed around 40 rockets had been fired into northern Israel by Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon.
Criminals are to be set to work fixing potholes as part of their community sentence under a pioneering scheme.

Thousands of offenders will repair roads across the South West, one of the worst affected regions for potholes.

A pilot scheme set up by a group of five Conservative police and crime commissioners in the South West will provide training for criminals before they carry out the work, which will be overseen by the Probation Service.

It will be the first time in the UK that repairing roads will form part of a criminal sentence.

The programme is expected to start in October and has already won the backing of Justice Secretary Alex Chalk. If successful, it could be rolled out across the country.

Potholes cost drivers about 500million in vehicle repairs last year

Thousands of offenders will repair roads across the South West, one of the worst affected regions for potholes

A pilot scheme set up by a group of five Conservative police and crime commissioners in the South West will provide training for criminals before they carry out the work

Potholes cost drivers about 500million in vehicle repairs last year.

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall, came up with the idea to tackle the appalling roads in her area after spearheading a separate project in which prisoners build homes for the homeless.

Last March, the Chancellor agreed to give the region an additional 9.3million for pothole repairs after lobbying, but Ms Hernandez says this is still not enough.

Devon County Council already has a scheme where volunteers are trained to repair minor holes. But Ms Hernandez hopes criminals could do the unpaid work.

Speaking exclusively to the Mail, which has campaigned for an end to the pothole plague, she said: There is a huge problem with potholes in this area.

'Devon and Cornwall has the largest road network in England, with 13,500 miles of roads. Thats one of the challenges, it is a rural network.

She added: Why not classify pothole repair as unpaid work suitable for a community sentence?

'This is a great way of delivering visible justice, a way for people to see payback happening in their communities.

Police and crime commissioners in Avon and Somerset, Dorset, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire are involved in the plan.

Justice Secretary Mr Chalk said: For some time now, I have been working with probation to make community service for offenders more responsive and more relevant to the needs of our communities.
A Memphis police officer was killed in a shootout by a teenager who had just been released from custody.

Officer Joseph McKinney, 26, died in the early hours of Friday morning, in Memphis, Tennessee. The 18-year-old male suspect was also killed during the incident.

The deceased suspect, Jaylen Lobley, had been arrested just last month for possessing an illegal weapon but was released without bond, according to law enforcement officials.

Another officer sustained injuries but is currently in stable condition, while a third officer was grazed by a bullet during the exchange of gunfire.

A 7-year-old suspect was wounded but is expected to recover, according to police.

Officer Joseph McKinney, 26, was killed in the early hours of Friday morning, in Memphis, Tennessee, when he was shot by an 18-year-old male suspect who was also killed in the shootout

The deceased suspect, Jaylen Lobley, had been arrested just last month for possessing an illegal weapon but was released without bond, according to law enforcement officials

In a press conference Friday, Interim Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn 'C.J.' Davis described the incident which unfolded as officers responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle nine miles south of Downtown Memphis

Lobley was reportedly arrested and released without bond in March after he was allegedly found with an illegally modified semi-automatic weapon.

He was also charged with stealing two vehicles and allegedly had a programming device used to steal cars.

In a press conference Friday, Interim Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn 'C.J.' Davis described the incident which unfolded as officers responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle nine miles south of Downtown Memphis.

When the cops approached the car, they were met with gunfire from inside the vehicle, which led the officers to return fire.

The suspect's car fled the scene, leading to a car chase.

The car was eventually stopped and one suspect was arrested while the second attempted to escape but was later taken into custody.

McKinney was killed while another officer sustained injuries but is currently in stable condition, while a third officer was grazed by a bullet during the exchange of gunfire

Two officers were rushed to Regional One Health Hospital in Memphis, where one remains in non-critical condition. Another officer was treated at the scene and is now in stable condition.

'We're not just concerned about our officers, we're concerned about the public in general. This could have been anybody and we're just really, really disturbed at the boldness and the use of weapons and just all these different situations that we're seeing in our community,' Davis said.

'We have a family that's grieving now, a wife that's grieving now, the families of the suspects that are grieving now. As a community we have to do better. We have to ensure that parents know where our young people are at 3 o'clock in the morning,' she continued.
A furious Vice President Kamala Harris blasted Donald Trump saying he is to blame during a visit to Arizona on Friday after the state's Supreme Court ruled a 1864 law banning nearly all abortion could be enforced.

'Donald Trump did this,' Harris said. She called him the 'architect of this health care crisis' and slammed the ex-president for saying he's 'proudly the person responsible' for overturning Roe.

The vice president has been a leading figure in the Biden administration advocating for abortion rights since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

'As much harm as he has already caused, a second Trump term would be even worse. Donald Trump's friends in the United States Congress are trying to pass a national ban, and understand, a national ban would outlaw abortion in every state,' Harris warned.

Harris claimed a second Trump term would mean 'more bans, more suffering, and less freedom.'

'Just like he did in Arizona, he basically wants to take America back to the 1800s. But we are not going to let that happen,' Harris said. 'This is 2024, not the 1800s, and we're not going back.'

Vice President Harris speaking in Tucson, Arizona on Friday after the state's Supreme Court upheld a 1864 abortion ban. She blasted the ex-president saying 'Donald Trump did this'

Harris called the Arizona Supreme Court's abortion decision 'one of the biggest aftershocks yet' after Roe was overturned

The vice president's visit to Tucson came shortly after the state's Supreme Court lifted a stay on the 160-year-old law banning abortion, meaning it could go into effect in 14 days.

'They have turned back the clock to the 1800s to take a woman's most fundamental right, the right to make decisions about her own body,' Harris said.

'This decision by the Arizona state Supreme Court now means women here, the women here live under one of the most extreme abortion bans in our nation,' she added.

Harris called the ruling one of the 'biggest aftershocks yet' after Roe was overturned.

Women waiting for Vice President Harris to speak in Tucson, Arizona on Friday

Trump posted on social media Friday that the Arizona Supreme Court 'went to far on their Abortion Ruling.'

He wrote 'now the Governor and the Arizona Legislature must use HEART, COMMON SENSE, and ACT IMMEDIATELY, to remedy what has happened. Remember, it is now up to the States and the Good Will of those that represent THE PEOPLE.

He also called for exceptions for rape, incest and life of the mother. The Civil War-era law only has an exception to save the life of the mother.

Arizona's Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs has called for the legislature to immediately repeal the ban.

But on Wednesday, Republicans in both chambers of the state legislature blocked Democrats' attempts to advance bills to roll back the 1864 law.

Both chambers of Arizona's state legislature are controlled by Republicans.

It came just hours after Trump said it would be 'straightened out' and suggested it would happen very quickly.

The Biden-Harris campaign on Thursday announced a new seven-figure ad blitz in Arizona taking direct aim at Trump on abortion rights after the state's Supreme Court decision.

Trump wrote the Arizona ruling on abortion 'went too far' after the state Supreme Court upheld a 1864 law. The issue went back to states after Roe v Wade was overturned in 2022

Trump claimed on Wednesday the ban in Arizona would be 'straightened out' quickly but hours later Republicans in the state legislature blocked efforts to roll back the 1864 law

The Arizona court's 4-2 decision paved the way for a law written nearly fifty years before Arizona became a state and more than fifty years before women had the right to vote.

It mandates two to five years in prison for anyone aiding an abortion, unless the procedure is necessary to save the life of the mother.

Harris has been on a 'Fight for Reproductive Freedom' tour across the country that has included stops in Wisconsin, California, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona and Minnesota.

Last month, she became the first sitting vice president or president to ever visit an abortion clinic with a trip to a Planned Parenthood facility in Minnesota.

Harris became the first sitting vice president or president to visit an abortion clinic last month with a visit to Planned Parenthood in Saint Paul, MN

Arizona Supreme Court ruled Tuesday the state can enforce its long-dormant law criminalizing all abortions except when a mother's life is at stake. Pictured: Thousands protest at the Arizona State Capitol after the Supreme Court ruling in 2022 that overturned Roe v. Wade

The 4-2 decision could influence other states looking to restrict abortion and could have wide-reaching impacts going into the 2024 election. Pictured: Arizona Supreme Court Justices from left; William G. Montgomery, John R Lopez IV, Vice Chief Justice Ann A. Scott Timmer, Chief Justice Robert M. Brutinel, Clint Bolick and James Been

On Monday, Trump said his stance on abortion is that it should be left to states.

The ex-president made the announcement in a four-and-a-half minute video posted on Truth Social.

His remarks signaled a shift away from his previous suggestions he would consider a federal ban as the issue of abortion has proven politically toxic for Republicans in recent elections.

'Trump wants us to believe he will not sign a national ban. Enough with the gaslighting,' Harris said Friday.

Some Republicans in tough races have also reversed course on the issue after the state Supreme Court ruling, including Arizona Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake.

In a more than five minute video on Thursday, Lake said the state's Supreme Court ruling to uphold the 1864 law is 'out of line' with where Arizonians are.

But in 2022, Lake praised the law as 'great' while she was running for governor.

Donald Trump released a video on Monday in which he praised the overturning of Roe v Wade and said he believes the issue of abortion should be left to states to decide.

Arizona passed a 15 week abortion ban in 2022, but the state Supreme Court upheld the Arizona 1864 law which bans nearly all abortion without exception for rape or incest

Last week, a coalition of advocates announced they had already gathered more than 500,000 petition signatures. The threshold to put a measure on the ballot is 383,923 and the deadline is is still three months away on July 3.

Arizona for Abortion Access said the amendment appears on track to go before voters this fall.
The driver who killed one person and injured 13 more by plowing a stolen truck into a Texas government building has been named and pictured by police.

Clenard Parker, 42, used an 18-wheel vehicle to ram the Texas Department of Safety building in the rural town of Brenham, 75 miles west of Houston on Friday morning.

The branch issues driving licenses, and Parker's application for a commercial license had been rejected by officials the day before.

Sgt. Justin Ruiz said Parker, of Chappell Hill, was pulled out of the truck by several officers and did not resist arrest, while police confirmed the crash was deliberate.

Three people were airlifted to hospital with critical injuries and three more were transported from the scene in a serious condition. One person has since died.

Clenard Parker, 42, used an 18-wheel vehicle to ram the Texas Department of Safety building in the rural town of Brenham, 75 miles west of Houston on Friday morning

At least 16 people have been injured after a truck driver intentionally rammed into the Texas Department of Safety building the day after they denied his license application

At least sixteen people have been injured - three critically - after a truck intentionally plowed into a Texas Department of Safety building in Brenham after a police chase

Of those injured, two people were flown to CHI St. Josephs Hospital in Bryan, one was flown to Memorial Hermann in Houston and three people were transported to Baylor Scott and White in Brenham but have since been released.

Eight people were also treated at the scene. Parker refused treatment at the scene but did not resist arrest, authorities have said.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough said the crash was intentional and that the suspect had been denied a commercial driving license the day before.

'Pray for our Texas DPS as theyre experiencing a mass casualty incident in Brenham with a major vehicle accident at their office. No word on injuries at this time,' he said on Facebook.

'Update: I have been briefed and this incident was intentional and done by the suspect who was denied a CDL yesterday. He returned today with intent to harm.'

Images of the collision showed the 18-wheeler's front end was smashed in and covered with debris from the front doors of the office.

The large red tractor-trailer can be seen in the parking lot beside debris scattered out front near a gaping hole at the entrance.

Officials said there are reports of multiple serious injuries but did not specify how many people were affected or the extent of the injuries.

They also requested people avoid the area to clear the way for responding medical personnel.

Senator Lois Kolkhorst slammed the crash as a 'deliberate, heinous act' by the driver.

The Brenham DPS office is a facility where drivers licenses are issued, located around 75 miles northwest of Houston

A stolen 16 wheeler smashed into the Brenham, Texas, building on Friday

The Texas DPS said the suspect has been detained and there is 'no further threat' to the community, while police said the 18-wheeler truck was stolen

'Today, a horrific tragedy occurred in my hometown of Brenham where an individual driving a stolen 18-wheeler crashed through the local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office,' she wrote on X.

'Three individuals were life-flighted with critical injuries. Three other patrons were transported to local hospitals in stable condition.

'I have been in contact with local officials as well as the Director of DPS and the Lt. Governors office.

'All resources are being deployed to assist our local first responders. DPS reports that no staff suffered serious injury; one staffer had been trapped for a period of time inside the office.

'According to law enforcement, this appears to be an intentional, criminal act and the Texas Rangers will be leading the investigation.

'This deliberate, heinous act is a reminder of the dangerous work done by our law enforcement and licensing agencies that work to provide public safety and services.

'Please join me in praying for the innocent victims and their families at this time.'

Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Dade Phelan said authorities were 'monitoring a serious situation in Brenham involving a stolen commercial truck that intentionally caused injury to innocent Texans.'

'Texas authorities are investigating and have advised people to avoid the area,' he added.

'Thank you to the brave law enforcement officers and first responders currently on the scene. Please keep those injured today in your prayers as they recover.'

The Brenham DPS office is a facility where drivers licenses are issued. The branch said the Texas Rangers are investigating the incident.
TV presenter Chris Packham led Extinction Rebellion protesters tonight as they stormed the Science Museum's new climate gallery over its sponsorship by a mining company.

The exhibit has been plagued by disruption since its opening last month, with criticism centring on the fact the gallery's sponsor  the Adani Group  derives 60 per cent of its revenue from the coal industry.

The Adani Group is also involved in the manufacturing of drones for the Israeli military, Extinction Rebellion has claimed.

Speaking to the 30-strong band of young people, scientists and activists, Mr Packham deemed the sponsorship deal 'beyond greenwash  it's grotesque'.

He continued: 'Science tells us that the fossil fuel industry is responsible for the accelerating destruction of our natural world.

TV presenter Chris Packham led Extinction Rebellion protesters last night as they stormed the Science Museum's new climate gallery over its sponsorship by a mining company

The exhibit has been plagued by disruption since its opening last month, with criticism centring on the fact the gallery's sponsor  the Adani Group  derives 60 per cent of its revenue from the coal industry

The Adani Group is also involved in the manufacturing of drones for the Israeli military, Extinction Rebellion has claimed

'The Science Museum is a place to spark imagination, to provide answers but also to encourage us to ask questions.

'The question I'm asking today is a big one, 'why on earth are we allowing a destructive industry to sponsor an educational exhibition whilst simultaneously setting fire to young peoples futures?'

'This is beyond greenwash - it's grotesque.'

Protesters led by Youth Action for Climate Justice held up a series of banners, including 'Teach us the truth' and 'Adani kills', and created a display of black balls symbolising coal.

They said they intended to remain in the museum over the weekend, with the first school visits to the gallery beginning on Monday.

Speaking to the 30-strong band of young people, scientists and activists, Mr Packham deemed the sponsorship deal 'beyond greenwash  it's grotesque'

Protesters led by Youth Action for Climate Justice held up a series of banners, including 'Teach us the truth' and 'Adani kills', and created a display of black balls symbolising coal

The announcement of the sponsorship in 2021 was met with a raft of opposition  including the resignation of two museum trustees, and former museum director Chris Rapley leaving the advisory board

Dr Aaron Thierry, a scientist who joined the protest, said: 'It's not just Adani's brand that the science museum is greenwashing, they're also allowing the oil and gas giants BP and Equinor to sponsor their exhibits, disregarding the fact that these companies continue to expand fossil fuel production against the warnings of climate scientists.

'That an institution like the Science Museum is working with such rogue companies is a disgrace.

'The museum's management needs to follow the example of Britain's other leading cultural institutions and drop all ties to the fossil fuel industry.'

The gallery's primary sponsor, Adani, is the world's largest private developer of new coal mines and coal-fired power plants.

The announcement of the sponsorship in 2021 was met with a raft of opposition  including the resignation of two museum trustees, and former museum director Chris Rapley leaving the advisory board.

More than 150 people gathered to protest at the gallery's opening, and guests at the VIP launch were accosted as they arrived.

The Science Museum has defended the deal by claiming that it has partnered only with Adani's Green Energy Division.
By Kim Hyun-bin

Darkhan Satybaldy, governor of Kazakhstan's Turkistan Province, made an official visit to Korea aiming to bolster economic ties between the two nations. During his stay, which spanned five days starting from March 31, Satybaldy engaged in bilateral discussions with prominent Korean business leaders and organizations, extending invitations for collaboration in various sectors.

At the Korea International Trade Association (KITA) headquarters, Satybaldy discussed abundant investment opportunities and the potential for enhanced trade cooperation between Korea and Kazakhstan. Highlighting the favorable business environment in Kazakhstan, Satybaldy urged KITA member companies to explore partnerships with Turkistan Province.

Korea's significant role in Kazakhstan's economy was emphasized, noting that as of 2023, Korea had become the fifth-largest investor in the Kazakh economy, trailing behind the Netherlands, Russia, Switzerland and China. Opportunities for Korean investment were highlighted in sectors such as construction, agriculture, processing, medicine and pharmaceuticals.

In addition, talks were conducted with Doosan Enerbility Vice President Kim Jong-gwan to explore potential investment cooperation. Satybaldy underscored the appeal of investment incentives in the Turkistan Province, positioning it as a focal point for growth in southern Kazakhstan. A memorandum of understanding was signed indicating a dedication to further investigate business prospects.
Angela Rayner's odds of becoming the next Labour leader have taken a dramatic plunge  as police launched an investigation into whether she broke electoral law over the sale of her council house.

This comes after the deputy Labour leader said she will 'of course do the right thing and step down' if she is found to have committed a crime.

Ms Rayner was once 3/1 favourite to succeed Sir Keir Starmer but her odds have dramatically dropped to 29/1. She is now placed behind six of her Shadow Cabinet colleagues.

The Labour leader today said he welcomed the probe by Greater Manchester Police into how his deputy dealt with the sale of her council house in 2015, following claims made by Tory Party deputy chairman James Daly.

But Betfair punters appeared far from confident in her position in the party.

Angela Rayner's odds of becoming the next Labour leader have taken a dramatic plunge  as police launched an investigation into whether she broke electoral law over the sale of her council house

Labour Party deputy leader Angela Rayner with leader Sir Keir Starmer during the Labour Party local elections campaign launch at the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology in Dudley on March 28

Ms Rayner's house on Vicarage Road when it was for sale. Ms Rayner sold the house for 127,500 in March 2015, according to property website Zoopla

A general view of the home in Lowndes Lane, Stockport, Greater Manchester

Andy Burnham is now viewed as Starmer's most-likely successor, with the Mayor of Greater Manchester having 7/1 odds of becoming the next leader of the Labour Party.

Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves is second-most favoured by the bookies to be the next leader, with 9/1 odds.

READ MORE: Angela Rayner says she will quit as Labour deputy leader if police find she broke the law over the sale of her old council house

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And Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Shadow International Development Secretary Lisa Nancy are all placed ahead of Ms Rayner.

Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: 'Angela Rayner's rise to the very top of Labour party politics captured Betfair punters' attention, with odds as short as 3/1 at one time.

'But with her troubles mounting, her odds of 29/1 now put her way behind the pack of runners and riders to succeed Keir Starmer.

'If this is what British punters think of her chances, Labour HQ may be wondering whether she might hinder the party's expected strong performance in the upcoming General Election.'

Ms Rayner said she was confident she had 'followed the rules at all times' after Conservative Party deputy chairman James Daly suggested she may have given false information about her main residence.

She faces pressure over claims she may have owed capital gains tax on property made from the sale of her home on Vicarage Road in Stockport in March 2015 - and that she may have broken electoral law by registering at the wrong address.

She says that the house was her main residence when she sold it for 127,500, which would exempt her from paying around 1,500 in tax on the 48,500 she made after buying the building for 79,000 in January 2007.

But after finding no evidence of wrongdoing in their initial probe, Greater Manchester Police this morning reversed its decision not to look into where the Ashton-under-Lyne MP was registered to vote, after an appeal by the Tories to take another look.

Angela Rayner with Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer. The confusion over Ms Rayner's home address is significant because under electoral rules, voters are expected to register at their permanent home address

In a statement on Friday, Ms Rayner said: 'I've repeatedly said I would welcome the chance to sit down with the appropriate authorities, including the police and HMRC, to set out the facts and draw a line under this matter.

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'I am completely confident I've followed the rules at all times.

'I have always said that integrity and accountability are important in politics. That's why it's important that this is urgently looked at, independently and without political interference.

'I make no apologies for having held Conservative ministers to account in the past. Indeed, the public would rightly expect me to do so as a Deputy Leader of the Opposition.

'We have seen the Tory Party use this playbook before - reporting political opponents to the police during election campaigns to distract from their record.

'I will say as I did before - if I committed a criminal offence, I would of course do the right thing and step down. The British public deserves politicians who know the rules apply to them.

'The questions raised relate to a time before I was an MP and I have set out my family's circumstances and taken expert tax and legal advice. I look forward to setting out the facts with the relevant authorities at the earliest opportunity.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the police investigation into Ms Rayner's council house sale and said he had 'full confidence' that she had not broken the rules.

His deputy has faced scrutiny about whether she paid the right amount of tax on the 2015 sale of her council house because of confusion over whether it was her principal residence.

Ms Rayner was registered at the house on Vicarage Road on the electoral role until her husband sold his property in 2016, as reported by The Guardian.

Her husband was listed at another address in Lowndes Lane, about a mile away, which had also been bought under the right-to-buy scheme.

Ms Rayner re-registered the births of their two sons at her husband's address after marrying Mark Rayner in 2010, according to Lord Ashcroft's unofficial biography.

Married couples who both own properties can only have one primary residence between them under tax law.

Ms Rayner insists she lived in the semi-detached former council house in Vicarage Road - paying council tax and bills - until weeks before her election as MP for Ashton-under-Lyne in May 2015, and never rented it out.

But neighbours have reportedly disputed her claim that she lived apart from her then husband.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed it was looking into claims that the Labour deputy leader may have mispaid capital gains tax over the 2015 sale of a property in Manchester.

Angela Rayner speaking at the Labour Party deputy leadership hustings on the stage at SEC in Glasgow on February 15, 2020 in Glasgow, Scotland

The Labour MP for Ashton-under-Lyne later sold the property in March 2015, ahead of her election to parliament that May.

Sir Keir has previously said the Conservatives are 'chasing a smear' in raising questions about the deputy leader and people were more interested in 'problems caused by this Government'.

The claims first emerged in Red Queen? The Unauthorised Biography of Angela Rayner by Lord Ashcroft, serialised in the Mail.

Ms Rayner posted on X, formerly Twitter, in February: 'As with the majority of ordinary people who sell their own homes, I was not liable for capital gains tax because it was my home and the only one I owned.

'My husband already owned his own home independently and I had an older child from a previous relationship. Our son was born just 23 weeks into my pregnancy and spent eight months in intensive care. He is legally blind.

'We mutually decided to maintain our existing residences to reflect our circumstances. Every family is different but it worked for us and we brought up our boys in a caring environment, surrounded by love.

'A wide network of friends and family were also there to support us, including my brother. He'd served in Iraq and was a dab hand at DIY.

'For all the unhealthy interest taken in my family by Lord Ashcroft and his friends, there is no suggestion any rules have been broken. Just a constant stream of smears from the usual suspects.'

Upon their initial investigation, police found no evidence of any wrongdoing.

A Labour spokesperson also said: 'Angela Rayner has set out her family's circumstances and has taken expert tax and legal advice which confirms that no capital gains tax was payable on the sale of her home.'

Nonetheless, Tory MPs have continued to insist that the issue 'is not being given the attention it surely warrants'.

James Daly, MP for Bury North, asked Greater Manchester Police to look into whether Ms Rayner breached electoral law over her living arrangements following her 2010 marriage.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps accused Ms Rayner of 'double standards' because in January 2022 she called for Boris Johnson to quit as prime minister amid a police investigation into whether he had breached lockdown rules while in No10.

He told reporters: 'Angela Rayner herself has spent her political career calling people out for exactly the thing she seems to be doing now.

'It's not acceptable to ignore it and it's not acceptable for Keir Starmer to say he won't even read reports into it.

'This is something which is a serious matter, it's important that it's looked into properly and I welcome the idea that the police are doing that.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer today declined to say three times whether Ms Rayner should resign if police find that she did break the law.

In a stony-faced interview with broadcasters he said: 'I am fully confident that Angela Rayner has not broken the rules.

'She will cooperate with the investigation as you would expect and it is really a matter for the police.'

Meanwhile other senior Labour frontbenchers rallied around her. Former party leader Ed Miliband said she was an inspiration and 'exactly the kind of person we need in politics'.
Border Force has promised a crackdown on fake stamps after Royal Mail accused it of failing to stop counterfeit versions entering Britain from China.

The Home Office said that Border Force will take concerted action to stop counterfeit stamps from crossing international borders, after a senior Royal Mail executive suggested that more should be done to stop the stamps coming from abroad.

Earlier this week the Mail revealed that fake stamps are entering Britain from China on an industrial scale, leaving victims with a 5 penalty to collect their post.

It is understood that convincing copies, sold for just 4p each, are being purchased by small retailers, who do not need to buy stamps directly from Royal Mail and can instead order them online or from wholesalers.

This newspaper easily found four large Chinese suppliers advertising sheets of fake stamps online, with the capacity of up to a million counterfeit stamps a week and delivery to Britain within days.

Royal Mail is accused of pointing the finger at Border Force after fake Chinese stamps flooded into Britain - here's how to tell apart the real from the fake

It is often very hard to tell the difference between real and fake Royal Mail stamps

Royal Mail has been urged to investigate what has been termed 'economic warfare'

The accusations have sparked a diplomatic row as Chinese officials said the claims were baseless, adding that Royal Mail should investigate its own supply chain.

A Home Office spokesman told the Mail yesterday that it does not tolerate the sale of illegal products including stamps, adding that it will work closely with law enforcement partners to share intelligence.

He said: Border Force will take concerted action to stop them crossing our borders by detecting and seizing harmful goods and supporting law enforcement to dismantle the criminal gangs that attempt to smuggle them in.

MPs have, however, expressed concern that Royal Mail is deferring responsibility without pledging to conduct an investigation into its own operations.

Yesterday former Post Office minister Paul Scully told the Mail that Royal Mail cannot leave Border Force alone to investigate this issue.

He said: Royal Mail needs to be open and stop passing the buck.

Before Royal Mail passes the problem to Border Force it has got to explain why counterfeit stamps have suddenly become a problem.

In a letter to the companys chief executive Martin Seidenberg yesterday, post office minister Kevin Hollinrake suggested Royal Mail redouble its efforts to investigate the source of counterfeit stamps, prevent their sale and hold those responsible accountable.

A Royal Mail spokesman said: Royal Mail takes the illegal production of counterfeit stamps seriously.

The introduction of unique barcodes and added security features has made it harder for fraudsters to replicate stamps.

As a result the number of counterfeits has reduced by about 90 per cent.
New York City's notorious suicide spot will reopen later this year with large cut-proof mesh safety screens after four visitors took their own lives by jumping off the ritzy development.

The Vessel, located on Manhattan's west side, is a 150-foot-high artwork shaped like an inverted beehive made up with stairways and platforms.

Three visitors jumped to their deaths from the climbable sculpture in less than a year, prompting the Vessel to close in January 2021.

It reopened later that year with additional rules, including a ban on solo visitors, but closed again after a 14-year-old leapt from the structure while visiting with his family.

A spokesperson for Related Companies, which owns Hudson Yards, said on Friday that the landmark will reopen to the public later this year, although an exact date for reopening is not clear.

New York City 's notorious suicide spot will reopen later this year with large cut-proof mesh safety screens after four visitors took their own lives by jumping off the ritzy development

The Vessel, located on Manhattan's west side, is a 150-foot-high artwork shaped like an inverted beehive made up with stairways and platforms. Pictured: authorities on scene after a 14-year-old jumped from the Vessel

Three visitors jumped to their deaths from the climbable sculpture in less than a year, prompting the Vessel to close in January 2021. Pictured: 19-year-old Peter DeSalvo (left) and 24-year-old Yocheved Gourarie(right) who took their lives by leaping from the structure

'Floor-to-ceiling steel mesh' is currently being installed on the building's twisting stairways and platforms as safety measures, according to the spokesperson.

'Through a closely coordinated effort with Thomas Heatherwick and Heatherwick Studio, we have developed a plan to install floor-to-ceiling steel mesh on Vessel while also preserving the unique experience that has drawn millions of visitors from around the globe,' the spokesperson said in a statement.

The first two levels will be fully open to visitors, while on the upper levels, only areas with barriers will be accessible, as reported by CBS.

The floor-to-ceiling mesh is not possible at the very top level as it needs to be secured at both the top and bottom of each floor, the top level will remain closed.

City officials and local community boards have long called for adding protections to the structure since the first suicide incident occurred.

Jessica Chait, the chair of the Manhattan community board, said the safety measure should have been added sooner.

While we think it took Related four lives too many to make these physical adjustments, these are the changes we requested, which will allow for prioritizing the safety of everyone who visits the Vessel, she told AP.

The first two levels will be fully open to visitors, while on the upper levels, only areas with barriers will be accessible, as reported by CBS

The floor-to-ceiling mesh is not possible at the very top level as it needs to be secured at both the top and bottom of each floor, the top level will remain closed

The first suicide at the Vessel occurred in February 2020, when 19-year-old Connecticut college student Peter DeSalvo, leapt to his death off the structures 16th story in front of dozens of tourists.

DeSalvo, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, was a freshman at Sacred Heart University where he also played rugby.

Months later, Yocheved Gourarie, 24, died by suicide shortly before Christmas. Her apparent suicide note was shared in a posthumous scheduled post on her Instagram account.

Gourarie wrote: 'Hey. This is pretty surreal isnt it? One might say uncomfortable. Jarring. Just close the app now if you want. I guess if you dont know by now you should probably sit down.

'If youre reading this, Im gone. Either that or somehow incapacitated in the hospital so I cant delete this scheduled post. I really hope Im not though.'

Gourarie wrote that she didn't 'care to go into the reasons why Im gone, but there are certainly more than thirteen,' referencing the popular young adult novel and Netflix TV series, 13 Reasons Why, about high school students in the wake of a classmate's suicide.

The first suicide at the Vessel occurred in February 2020, when 19-year-old Connecticut college student Peter DeSalvo, leapt to his death off the structures 16th story in front of dozens of tourists

Months later, Yocheved Gourarie, 24, died by suicide shortly before Christmas. Her apparent suicide note was shared in a posthumous scheduled post on her Instagram account

A police car is seen outside the Vessel following the third suicide in January, 2021, when 21-year-old Franklin Washington, took his own life by jumping off the Vessel

Three weeks later, the third person, 21-year-old Franklin Washington, took his own life by jumping off the Vessel.

Before he died, he was being sought as a person of interest in the stabbing death of his mother, reported the New York Post.

Michelle Washington-Hart, 56, was found murdered inside her apartment in the 7600 block of Highway 90 East in San Antonio on Friday, after family members were unable to reach her and requested a welfare check, reported KSAT.

Following the three suicides, the $200million tourist attraction was closed briefly. When it's reopened in May, 2021, new rules were drawn up in an effort to prevent further suicides.

The building implemented a ban on solo visitors with a minimum of two people per visit. Staff were also placed in the structure looking for individuals in distress.

Two months after it reopened, a 14-year-old boy from New Jersey leapt from the eighth floor of the 150-foot structure during a visit with his parents, sister and grandmother.

For confidential support call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255
Threatening jailhouse phone calls from the father of Oxford school shooter Ethan Crumbley have been released, with him vowing revenge on the prosecutor who charged him with manslaughter.

James Crumbley was sentenced earlier this week alongside his estranged wife Jennifer to 10 to 15 years behind bars for their part in their son's massacre.

Authorities have since released audio recordings of calls in which Crumbley threatens Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald.

In the audio, obtained by the Detroit Free Press, Crumbley can be heard saying: 'Karen McDonald, you are going down. Yeah you stupid b*****s at the f*****g jail, go ahead record this call, send it to Karen McDonald.

'Tell her how James Crumbley is going to f*****g take her down. She will not have a law license when I get done with her.

'Karen McDonald will be working at f*****g McDonalds, cause she ain't gonna be able to get a job anywhere else.'

James Crumbley was sentenced earlier this week, seen here, alongside his estranged wife Jennifer to 10 to 15 years behind bars for their part in their son's massacre

Authorities have since released audio recordings of calls in which Crumbley threatens Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, seen here

In another, Crumbley can be heard saying: 'She's really got it coming to her when I f*****g get out. Your ass is going down and you better be f*****g scared.'

Another adds: 'You know what, three months from now it is going down, when I get out of here I am on a rampage Karen.

'Yes Karen McDonald your ass is going down and you better be scared.' It remains unclear as to who Crumbley was on the phone to at the time.

An investigator at the Oakland County Sheriff's Office told the outlet: 'Most of the contents of the messages I have reviewed appear to be Mr. Crumbley complaining about court proceedings and courtroom tactics and Mr. Crumbley making comments about winning the matter in court and making Karen McDonald look bad to the public '

The outlet obtained the recordings via Freedom of Information laws, which also uncovered a police report filed by the prosecutor's office into the calls.

The report asked sheriff's office to investigate what they deemed 'harassment and threatening' phone calls.

The calls were mentioned in the first day of Crumbley's trial, which caused a spat in the courtroom and for the jury to be sent home for the day.

Prosecutors raised an issue with Crumbley's jailhouse communications, which his lawyer objected to the issue of being made public.

Crumbley's lawyer Mariell Lehman has maintained that Crumbley was not threatening to physically harm McDonald but venting frustrations.

James Crumbley is seen crying in court Monday as he and wife Jennifer received a landmark 10 to 15 year sentence for their son Ethan's 2021 school massacre that murdered four

James and Jennifer Crumbley sat at the same table ahead of their sentencing, where they received the maximum possible sentence of 10 to 15 years

During sentence the phone calls were again brought up, with prosecutors arguing they warranted a stiffer punishment.

Judge Cheryl Matthews agreed and told Crumbley that he 'threatened the wellbeing of the prosecutor.'

His son Ethan, then aged 15, opened fire at the school in Oxford, Michigan, and murdered Hana St. Juliana, Madisyn Baldwin, Tate Myre, and Justin Shilling.

Ethan was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murders, after being convicted of 24 felonies including terrorism.

Crumbley and his wife Jennifer were convicted at separate trials earlier this year, with juries finding they ignored Ethan's pleas for help and bought him a firearm.

Their sentences will be served minus the near-two-and-a-half years they have already served, and they will be barred from contacting to their son's victims' families.

The two are the first parents in the US to be held responsible for a child carrying out a mass school attack.

McDonald said Crumbley ignored signs that his son was deeply disturbed, did not get him the help he needed, and did not safely store the firearm in the family home.

Ethan Crumbley pleaded guilty to his crimes and is currently serving life in prison without the possibility of parole, after murdering four classmates in the Oxford High School shooting in 2021

Justin Shilling, 17, (left) and Tate Myre, 16, (right) were two of four students killed in the senseless shooting at Oxford High School in Michigan

Madisyn Baldwin, 17, (left) and Hana St Juliana, 14, (right) died in the 2021 shooting rampage at Oxford High School in suburban Detroit

McDonald also presented the jury with texts that Ethan Crumbley had sent to a friend and journal entries he had written in the months leading up to the shooting.

In those, he talked about wanting medical attention and hearing voices, but he was worried his parent would be 'pissed.'

On one occasion, according to a text message to a friend, Ethan asked Crumbley to take him to the doctor, but his dad 'gave me some pills and told me to suck it up.'

Defense attorney Mariell Lehman argued that James Crumbley could not have possibly foreseen that his son would carry out a mass shooting.

Crumbley, accompanied by Ethan, bought a Sig Sauer 9 mm handgun over Thanksgiving weekend in 2021.

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald holds the murder weapon at James' trial, as jurors heard how he purchased the firearm for his son despite his disturbing behavior

The boy called it his 'new beauty' on social media. His mother described the gun as a Christmas gift and took him to a shooting range.

Four days after the purchase, the parents went to Oxford High to discuss a violent image their son had drawn on a math assignment.

Alongside the drawing including phrases that said: 'The thoughts wont stop. Help me.' There was a gun on the paper that looked similar to the Sig Sauer.

The Crumbleys didn't take him home, and school staff - believing he might be suicidal - also didn't demand it.

But no one checked the boy's backpack for a gun, and the shooting happened that afternoon.

Before his sentencing, James read a statement where he said his 'heart is broken for all involved', and he stressed that claims he had no remorse for his son's actions were not true.

'I know the pain and loss will never go away.'
A boy has been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of another boy at a western Sydney school.

Emergency services were called to the scene outside Crawford Public School on Power St at Doonside about 3.40pm on Friday, following reports two teenagers had been stabbed.

Before police could attend, two teens aged 18 and 19 presented to Blacktown Police Station with stab wounds.

The 18-year-old died at the scene, NSW Police said in a statement.

The altercation is believed to have been a result of tensions between rival postcodes involving the RFA (Ready For Anything) and 67 gangs

Emergency services were called to the scene on Power St at Doonside about 3.40pm on Friday, following reports two teenagers had been stabbed. Picture: 7News

The other teen was taken to Westmead Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested nearby and taken to Mount Druitt Police Station.

A NSW Police spokesman said the boy had been charged with murder and refused bail to appear at a children's court on Saturday.

Officers from Blacktown PAC with assistance from State Crime Command's Homicide Squad has commenced an investigation into the incident under Strike Force Cooey.

A school bus with its hazard lights flashing was seen locked down at a bus stop in an area sealed off by police as the investigation continues. Witnesses reported seeing teenagers fighting on the bus in the moments before the stabbing.

It's believed children as young as five witnessed the incident, with the 18-year-old in the company of family and friends when the attack occurred.

'His last words were help mum I cant breathe',' a relative of the young man who died told the Saturday Telegraph.

'He was such a beautiful boy. They were just on their way to go to McDonalds.'

A resident who lives in the area said they 'saw a youth jumping her fence and several others running through neighbouring back yards'.

The altercation is believed to have been a result of tensions between rival postcodes involving the RFA (Ready For Anything) and 67 gangs.

Teens were seen running from the scene while throwing up gang signs, The Daily Telegraph reported.

The RFA gang is from Mount Druitt while the 67 group, which stands for postcode 2767, is from Doonside.

Crawford Public School in Doonside where a teenager was fatally stabbed on Friday

Police have established crime scenes at both locations and are investigating the incident

The stabbing victims are not believed to have been students at Crawford Public School.

A NSW Police spokesman said: 'About 3.40pm, emergency services responded to the stabbings near a school on Power Street, Doonside.'

'Before officers attached to Blacktown Police Area Command could arrive on scene, two teenage boys presented to Blacktown Police Station with stab wounds.

'They were treated at the scene for serious stab injuries. A boy in his teens died at the scene and the other teenage boy was taken to hospital in a serious condition.

'Police have established crime scenes at both locations and are investigating the incident.

'Following inquiries police have arrested one person nearby.'
Former President Donald Trump said on Friday he is 'not a fan' of the controversial spy tool that was reauthorized in the House that morning.

Congress has approved a two-year extension of a controversial foreign surveillance program that can help track foreign terrorists after a chaotic week of Republican infighting.

'I'm not a big fan of FISA. But I told everybody I said do what you want,' Trump said during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago standing next to Speaker Mike Johnson.

'They put a lot of checks and balances on and I guess it's down to two years now so that it would come due in the early part of my administration.'

'I know [FISA] probably better than anybody,' Trump claimed. 'You know they spied on my campaign. You do know that right? And they did lots of other bad things.'

Trump had deflated chances of FISA's passing a head of a failed rule vote to advance it earlier this week with a scathing post to Truth Social.

Donald Trump said he 'stands' with Mike Johnson and he's done a 'very good job' as the pair appeared at a joint news conference amid threats of another motion to oust the speaker

'KILL FISA, IT WAS ILLEGALLY USED AGAINST ME, AND MANY OTHERS. THEY SPIED ON MY CAMPAIGN!!! DJT,' Trump wrote.

But Johnson made an agreement with Trump and his allies to renew it only for two years instead of five, so they could hash out more reforms under a potential Trump administration.

Another part of the law that is not up for reauthorization - Title 1 - was used to spy on Trump campaign adviser Carter Page in 2016 when he was suspected of communications with the Russians. Trump reauthorized FISA in 2018.

Trump's comments at the Friday news conference were a more passive opposition.

Section 702 specifically allows the U.S. government to surveil foreign nationals with suspected terror ties who are not on U.S. soil, even if the party on the other side of such communications is a U.S. national in America.

A hotly contested amendment from Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., to require a warrant before picking up conversations of those on U.S. soil who communicate with suspected terrorists failed on a rare tie vote, 212-212.

Speaker Mike Johnson cast the final vote that tanked the amendment - a move that is sure to rankle hardliners.

'Being the vote that took down the warrant amendment certainly brought other members over to my side,' said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Johnson, who she has filed a motion to oust from the speakership.

'This is a sad day for America. The Speaker doesnt always vote in the House, but he was the tie breaker today. He voted against warrants,' Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., wrote on X.

An amendment from Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, that would require the FBI to provide quarterly reports about how many Americans had been queried under 702 passed and was added to the bill.

Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Chip Roy are introducing the new bill in Congress, the SAVE Act

The national security surveillance bill includes new guardrails aimed at oversight and transparency, after a report found that intelligence agents had improperly queried Americans 278,000 times under the law.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) released a May 2023 report that details how the FBI improperly used Section 702 to 'query' - or search - names of individuals who were suspected of being on the Capitol grounds during the January 6, 2021 riot, Black Lives Matters protestors, victims of crime and their families and donors to one congressional campaign.

FISA is set to expire on April 19, after which 'America will go blind,' Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner warned reporters.

Ahead of the vote, Turner noted that FISA could have been used to spy on Al-Qaeda ahead of the 9/11 attack.

'The 9/11 perpetrators were in the United States and they were communicating with Al-Qaeda,' he said on the House floor.

'At that time, we made a grave mistake and that we were not spying on al Qaeda and we didn't see who they were communicating with United in the United States. we changed that and we began to spine al Qaeda and we got to see the extent to which they were recruiting people the United States to do us harm.'

Without Section 702, intelligence agents would not be able to get the full picture of conversations of suspected terrorists abroad who are communicating with people on American soil.

Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, tore into the right-wing House Freedom Caucus and its allies who want the FBI to have to get a warrant to pick up those conversations, which critics say would bog down the process of fighting terrorism.

'Lets be clear. Your position is aligned (and cosponsored) with the progressive caucus - Jerry Nadler, AOC, Rashida Tlaib, Pramila Jayapal - the list goes on and on. It is the far left socialists that want this same policy,' he said.

'What the progressives want to do is much more than just fix the program, they want to kill it entirely. Im not surprised when Rashida Tlaib wants to make it easier for terrorists to kill Americans, but I am VERY surprised that many Republicans agree with her.'

Crenshaw's amendment to allow international drug traffickers to be queried under 702, in addition to terrorists, was adopted to the bill.

Crenshaw likened it to a wire tap of criminal investigation. Police don't have to get a warrant to probe conversations of suspects and the people they talk to. He noted that intelligence agents need to track would-be terrorists' conversations with those in the U.S. at early stages, potentially before a judge would approve a warrant for 'probable cause.'

'This requirement - while perhaps well intentioned - would actually destroy our ability to detect domestic terror attacks (or drug trafficking, or espionage), because it prevents our investigators from moving past step 1 of the investigation process, which is simply connecting the dots with data we already legally have.'

Biggs, who sponsored the warrant requirement, shot back: 'Youve aligned yourself with the DC Cartel that insists on spying on Americans and violating the Bill of Rights.'

Crenshaw claimed the FBI 'HATES' the new reforms in the bill. 'It severely degrades their access to the FISA database. It imposes criminal penalties for abusing it. It makes clear you can't search anyone for any reason, but only for investigations related to foreign intelligence, WMD, or terrorism.'

While many of Section 702's uses remain classified, intelligence officials leaked late last year that they had used the controversial tool to thwart weapons sales to Iran.

The CIA and other intelligence agencies had used information gathered through monitoring the electronic communications of foreign weapons manufacturers and stopping several shipments of advanced weapons to Iran.

On Thursday FBI Director Christopher Wray issued a dire warning to members of Congress about what could happen if FISA lapses. 'It will massively increase the risk of missing crucial intelligence during a time of heightened national security threats across a whole multiple of fronts,' Wray said.

'If we're blinded from seeing what our adversaries are, who they're working with, I can tell you that's going to most definitely have consequences for our ability to protect the American people, because I can assure that none of our adversaries are tying their own hands. So now is not the time for us to hang up our gloves.'

The ODNI report states 13 people connected to January 6 were inappropriately queried in order to determine if they had 'foreign ties.'

In addition, over 130 individuals were searched in the database who were linked to the social unrest and riots conducted by Black Lives Matter activists in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

The FISA search was conducted to gain information on whether they were connected to any counterterrorism plots - which DOJ wrote in the report was 'reasonable,' but the high level of redactions don't allow for a fuller explanation.

There was also a 'batched inquiry' of over 19,000 donors to a congressional campaign, which was unnamed.

The FBI analyst who conducted the search said the campaign was a possible target of foreign influence.

However, the Department of Justice said there were only 'eight identifiers' used in the search in total that 'had sufficient ties to foreign influence activities to comply with the querying standard.'

Additionally, FBI FISA searches were conducted on crime victims, including 'individuals listed in police homicide reports, including victims, next-of-kin, witnesses, and suspects.'

DOJ said these queries were inappropriate because there was 'no reasonable basis' to expect the individuals would be linked to foreign intelligence through those searches.
Officials in Gibraltar have reportedly expressed concerns about the mounting cancellation of British events in the territory in recent years amid growing tensions over its status.

Amid Brexit negotiations over Gibraltar, a Red Arrows aerobatics display scheduled for last September was cancelled after a Spanish official warned it would be a 'hostile act' and that its response would likely 'not be mild', according to leaked diplomatic cables seen by The Telegraph.

The official allegedly deemed the display 'unnecessary, unconstructive and provocative', with the British Embassy in Spain suggesting it was 'clear that Spain is deeply opposed to the activity'.

The governor of Gibraltar, in another leaked cable, also reportedly claimed to be 'conscious' that several events in recent years had been 'turned off' including 'not least a visit of HMS Queen Elizabeth... just to appear [Spanish] sensitivities'.

Gibraltar's status, ceded to the British from Spain in 1713, remains contentious, with Britain locked in talks over its future since it left the European Union in 2016.

Earlier today, the head of the territory spoke more optimistically about the prospects of a permanent arrangement for border checks and transit, stakeholders agreeing 'significant progress' had been made.

The RAF Red Arrows display team perform over the sea at the Bournemouth Air Festival in Dorset. Picture date: Sunday September 3, 2023

The Red Arrows fly in a nine-ship practice display over RAF Waddington, April 8, 2024

The Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth lies off Rosyth Dockyard on March 22

Leaked cables reveal multiple calls to resolve the issue of the planned event last year resulted in 'more explicit' warnings, according to the newspaper. However the exact threat was left unsaid.

Britain's maintained the event would be mainly within British airspace and that it did not need approval from Spain.

However, Spain warned of possible retaliation were the display to take place, The Telegraph claimed.

Vice-Admiral Sir David Steel, the governor of Gibraltar, expressed fears giving in to warnings from Madrid could worsen Britain's position.

'If we back down now we will once again show a weakness that the Spanish will undoubtedly exploit,' he allegedly said, according to the cables.

Britain nonetheless did back off, cancelling displays over both Gibraltar and the island of Menorca.

The sudden cancellation of the later event on Menorca, set for September 26, contributed to speculation the decision was influenced by pressure from Madrid, The Express reported at the time.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said on the cancellations: 'As part of operational planning, a variety of potential display dates and locations are considered by the RAF.

'A wide range of factors influence whether these are able to proceed.'

The Red Arrows are an aerobatics display team organised by the Royal Air Force, performing regular events through the summer across the country and abroad.

An 'earlier' visit to Gibraltar by HMS Queen Elizabeth was also reportedly scrapped in order to 'appease' Spain, The Telegraph revealed today. A date was not provided.

It comes amid a slew of recent clashes over the status of the British Overseas Territory, exacerbated by negotiations following Brexit, which ended freedom of movement between Spain and the territory.

Margaritis Schinas, a vice-president of the European Commission, caused controversy earlier this month when he said 'Gibraltar is Spanish'.

Margaritis Schinas' comments were quickly dismissed as 'incomprehensible' by Spain's foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares.

With a population of around 34,000, Gibraltar is dependent on the 15,000 Spanish workers who cross the border every day, providing vital services.

But the current temporary agreement could be rescinded by Spain at any time, and are subject to ongoing negotiations agreeing common travel between Gibraltar and the EU's Schengen zone to allow workers to carry on working as normal.

British diplomats have accused the Spanish government of making unacceptable demands that would threaten the sovereignty of Gibraltar, negotiations stalling last summer when Spain demanded jurisdiction over the airport.

2019: British sailors face down a Spanish warship that entered waters around Gibraltar and refused to leave. The standoff began when HMS Sabre followed Spanish vessel OPV Infanta Cristina as it sailed into British waters around the disputed Rock

The Rock of Gibraltar is seen from the Spanish mainland (file photo)

Earlier today, it was reported a post-Brexit agreement on border checks and transit for Gibraltar was 'within kissing distance', however.

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo spoke optimistically about the prospects for Britain, Spain and Gibraltar, suggesting a permanent agreement was 'very, very, very, very close'.

He said: 'In English we say 'within spitting distance', but actually it's nicer to say 'within kissing distance'.'

Since October 2021, officials have met 17 times to discuss a potential resolution to the situation, so far without agreement.
Patrick Orren Stephenson is charged with her murder

They quietly returned on Friday tro continue the hunt

Search crews have returned to thick scrub for a second day as the hunt for the body of Ballarat mum Samantha Murphy intensifies.

On Friday, police returned to bush tracks near where the mother-of-three went missing on February 4 in Victoria's west.

A police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia crews were undertaking 'a targeted search' in the Ballarat area.

'Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad as well as a range of specialist resources from across Victoria Police are involved in the search,' she said.

Unlike a large scale search carried out by police on Thursday, media have been kept in the dark about where crews are looking on Friday.

'Over the past two months, police have also regularly undertaken a range of enquiries and small-scale searches as part of the current investigation,' the spokesperson said.

'We are not in a position to supply further specific details of todays operational activity at this time.'

The search provides further hope search teams could be close to locating the 51-year old's body.

Police have once again entered thick bush in an area about 25 kilometres from where Samantha Murphy vanished on February 4

Specialised dogs capable of finding bodies have been brought in to assist the search

Search crews have been looking down mine shafts and navigating treacherous conditions in the hunt for clues

On Thursday Victoria Police brought in specialist cadaver dogs from New South Wales to scour the Victorian bush at multiple locations in dense scrub spanning a vast stretch of countryside.

Teams of officers focused their search within Enfield State Park, 30km south of Ballarat - but another search team was also working 25km away in thick scrub in the Durham Lead Nature Conservation Reserve.

The nature reserve is just south of Buninyong where Ms Murphy's phone was last detected by mobile phone towers at 5pm on the day she vanished.

Ms Murphy, 51, was last seen leaving her home on Eureka Street, Ballarat East, to go for a run in the Canadian State Forest on the morning of February 4.

Police are believed to be looking in bush about 20km south of the Murphy family home.

Ms Murphy's husband Mick Murphy was informed about this week's search. He had been previously kept in the dark about similar search efforts

Samantha Murphy was allegedly murdered while out for a Sunday morning jog

A helicopter was seen flying overhead the dense woodland just before 2pm on Thursday, with search crews making their way deeper into the thick scrub.

By 4pm, the search was suspended for the day.

It remains unclear how long police intend to search on Friday and whether they will return again over the weekend.

Thursday was the first time search crews have used the highly-trained cadaver dogs, brought in from NSW Police, since the investigation was launched.

They are specially trained to be able to sniff out humans remains and corpses, even under extreme conditions.

Police on trail bikes have also been used to help cover the wide area of the increasingly desperate hunt for Ms Murphy's remains, more than eight weeks after she vanished.

Officers had previously made unsuccessful search efforts at Buninyong Bushland Reserve in March.

It remains unclear what new information has triggered the fresh search locations for police on Thursday.

In March, detectives charged 22-year-old tradesman Patrick Orren Stephenson with Ms Murphy's murder.

Samantha Murphy in the last haunting image of her captured before she took off on her run on February 4

Patrick Orren Stephenson is allegedly refusing to tell police where they claim he hid Ms Murphy's body

They allege he killed her at Mount Clear on the day she went missing.

Stephenson is the son of Orren Stephenson, who played 15 AFL games for Geelong and Richmond between 2012 and 2014.

It is understood Stephenson has refused to cooperate with police and disclose what they allege he knows about the location of Ms Murphy's body.

Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt described Thursday's effort as an 'extensive' large scale search that built on targeted searches in other areas.

'I want to assure those in the Ballarat community that police remain focused on doing everything we can to return Samantha to her family,' he said.

Anyone with any information about Ms Murphy's disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Patrick Orren Stephenson is charged with her murder

They quietly returned on Friday to continue the hunt

Search crews have abandoned their latest hunt for the body of Ballarat mum Samantha Murphy without finding any trace of the missing mother-of-three.

On Friday, police returned to bush tracks near where the mother-of-three went missing on February 4 in Victoria's west.

But by 1.30pm the mission had been called-off, with the last of the Victoria Police dirt bike team seen loading their bikes into a trailer.

Samantha Murphy was allegedly murdered while out for a Sunday morning jog

Police pack away their dirt bikes after another unsuccessful search on Friday

An officer prepares to pull out of the area after another unsuccessful search on Friday

'If we'd found anything you would have all heard about it,' one officer told Daily Mail Australia.

Police will not return to the bush tomorrow.

The unsuccessful search will come as another blow for Ms Murphy's long suffering family, who are expected to take part in a rally against men's violence in Ballarat on Friday evening.

Among them will be the family of Hannah McGuire, who was allegedly murdered by her ex-partner Lachlan Young a week ago.

The McGuire family are expected to be at the rally handing out t-shirts sporting Hannah's face.

'Tomorrow we will march and stand in solidarity for Hannah McGuire and every other female who has lost their life to violence,' a post on the family pub's Facebook page stated.

'We have had T-shirts made for Hannah and would be honoured if you wore one.'

Earlier, a police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia crews were undertaking 'a targeted search' in the Ballarat area on Friday morning.

'Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad as well as a range of specialist resources from across Victoria Police are involved in the search,' she said.

Hannah McGuire's alleged murder has compounded the Ballarat community's misery

Police have once again entered thick bush in an area about 25 kilometres from where Samantha Murphy vanished on February 4

Search crews have been looking down mine shafts and navigating treacherous conditions in the hunt for clues

Specialised dogs capable of finding bodies have been brought in to assist the search

Unlike a large scale search carried out by police on Thursday, media had been kept in the dark about where crews were looking on Friday.

'Over the past two months, police have also regularly undertaken a range of enquiries and small-scale searches as part of the current investigation,' the spokesperson said.

'We are not in a position to supply further specific details of todays operational activity at this time.'

The search had provided renewed hope search teams were close to locating the 51-year old's body.

On Thursday Victoria Police brought in specialist cadaver dogs from New South Wales to scour the Victorian bush at multiple locations in dense scrub spanning a vast stretch of countryside.

Teams of officers focused their search within Enfield State Park, 30km south of Ballarat - but another search team was also working 25km away in thick scrub in the Durham Lead Nature Conservation Reserve.

The nature reserve is just south of Buninyong where Ms Murphy's phone was last detected by mobile phone towers at 5pm on the day she vanished.

Ms Murphy, 51, was last seen leaving her home on Eureka Street, Ballarat East, to go for a run in the Canadian State Forest on the morning of February 4.

Police were believed to be looking in bush about 20km south of the Murphy family home.

Ms Murphy's husband Mick Murphy was informed about this week's search. He had been previously kept in the dark about similar search efforts

A helicopter was seen flying overhead the dense woodland just before 2pm on Thursday, with search crews making their way deeper into the thick scrub.

By 4pm, the search was suspended for the day.

Thursday was the first time search crews have used the highly-trained cadaver dogs, brought in from NSW Police, since the investigation was launched.

They are specially trained to be able to sniff out humans remains and corpses, even under extreme conditions.

Police on trail bikes have also been used to help cover the wide area of the increasingly desperate hunt for Ms Murphy's remains, more than eight weeks after she vanished.

Officers had previously made unsuccessful search efforts at Buninyong Bushland Reserve in March.

It remains unclear what new information triggered the fresh search locations for police on Thursday.

In March, detectives charged 22-year-old tradesman Patrick Orren Stephenson with Ms Murphy's murder.

Samantha Murphy in the last haunting image of her captured before she took off on her run on February 4

Patrick Orren Stephenson is allegedly refusing to tell police where they claim he hid Ms Murphy's body

They allege he killed her at Mount Clear on the day she went missing.

Stephenson is the son of Orren Stephenson, who played 15 AFL games for Geelong and Richmond between 2012 and 2014.

It is understood Stephenson has refused to cooperate with police and disclose what they allege he knows about the location of Ms Murphy's body.

Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt described Thursday's effort as an 'extensive' large scale search that built on targeted searches in other areas.

'I want to assure those in the Ballarat community that police remain focused on doing everything we can to return Samantha to her family,' he said.

Anyone with any information about Ms Murphy's disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
San Diego saw a staggering 6,997 migrant encounters in just seven days at the start of April in an alarming indicator of the worsening border crisis, DailyMail.com can reveal.

The number is around the same as other sectors normally see in an entire month, and only reflects those who were caught - meaning the true scale is likely higher.

'Unfortunately, I'm not surprised,' San Diego County Commissioner Jim Desmond told DailyMail.com Thursday.

'Texas is clamping down and other areas are clamping down.

Migrants with carry-ons are apprehended at the border in El Campo on March 13

US Border Patrol took 6,997 migrants into custody from April 3-9

Georgian migrant Nani, smiles as she thanks a U.S. volunteer, speaking between gaps in one of the border walls separating Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego, as she waits to apply for asylum with U.S on Friday

Migrant encounters in the San Diego sector (shown above) have been steadily rising since 2021. Last week, the region saw 6,997 in just one week, according to federal statistics

'Here in California, they're allowed to walk in unimpeded. They're going to follow the path of least resistance, and the least resistance is in California.'

The San Diego sector, which includes most of the Southern California border with Mexico except El Centro and Calexico, has been seeing high number numbers of migrant crossings in recent weeks, between 6,000-8,000.

What makes the April 3-9 numbers so significant is that they were the highest in the nation, even beating out #1 Tucson sector.

The Arizona sector only saw 6,600, but regularly sees as many as 11,000.

The Border Patrol divides the border into 'sectors' or regions.

According to the latest figures released by the feds, San Diego has been the third busiest, but that could be changing.

'Tucson has been the number one sector for migrant arrivals since July 2023, but numbers have been dropping,' Adam Isacson of the Washington Office on Latin America said.

Migrants surrender to the U.S. Border Patrol after crossing the border wall from Mexico near Campo, California, about 50 miles from San Diego, on Wednesday, March 13

These Chinese migrants were dropped off at a transit center near San Diego Tuesday after they were processed and screened by federal immigration authorities

'While one week's data is not enough evidence to go by, it is possible that San Diego may be supplanting Tucson as the number-one sector.'

With so many migrants entering the country through SoCal, migrants who are vetted by US Border Patrol are being released onto the streets.

The county migrant shelter closed a few months back, after local leaders decided they did not want to the $18 million dollars a year to keep running it.

'It was costing us, at that point in time, about $1.5 million a month to basically be their travel agent. Border Patrol was their Uber, bringing them to those drop off areas, and then we were their travel agent,' Desmond quipped.

Without the local shelter, migrants are either being let loose at a transit station or at the airport by the feds.

'The biggest burden here lately has been our airport. Luckily a lot of them are flying to other parts of the country, but we're a tourist community. People coming to San Diego, they see all the people sleeping there. It looks bad,' the commissioner added.

'We just can't sustain it; we can't manage the numbers that are coming here.'

Migrants have been known to spend as many as five days crashing at the airport while they wait for a flight out of town, Desmond added.

Chinese migrants are crossing the US-Mexico border in increasing numbers, federal statistics show

Like other border communities across the country, San Diego's airport does not add extra flights simply because there's a spike in migrant crossings.

Often times, there aren't available seat to fly out or migrants, with limited means, wait a day or two until ticket prices drop and they can afford to travel to their final destination.

Last month, an image of a migrant sleeping underneath restroom sinks at the airport was shared by a local conservative talk show host.

'My photo at San Diego International Airport this morning. Mens restroom near TSA, gates 5-10 in Terminal One. Homeless transient or asylum seeker asleep under sinks next to urinals. Common all over with surge in migrants dumped in SD,' tweeted Mark Larson.

The most recent weekly figure does not include the migrants who entered the US legally with CBP One Appointments at the San Ysidro Port of Entry between Tijuana, Mexico and San Diego California.

At least 77,000 migrants have entered Southern California that way from October to February, federal statistics show.

The figure also doesn't account for so-called got-aways, migrants who federal agents know made entry into the country but were unable to apprehend, a number that was not released.
By Kim Hyun-bin

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul called on ambassadors from various countries for greater understanding and support for South Korea's foreign policies, Friday, underscoring the importance of diplomatic dialogue and collaboration in navigating global challenges.

He made the comments in his address given to the 2024 Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA) Meets Ambassadors event in Seoul, hosted by the KNDA for the first time. Approximately 60 ambassadors to South Korea and other dignitaries including Park Cheol-hee, the chancellor of the KNDA, attended the event.

There really is no overstating the importance of making sure that resident diplomats are well-informed about our foreign policy priorities. You play a vital role in strengthening mutual understanding and the bonds of friendship between Korea and the countries you represent, Cho said.

So, it's a privilege for me to kick off the first 2024 KNDA Meets Ambassadors series and provide an overview of the Yoon Suk Yeol administrations foreign policy priorities.

Cho's address highlighted the country's commitment to playing an active role in shaping the international order during a period of geopolitical and geoeconomic transition.

Emphasizing the vision of of the country as a global pivotal state, he outlined key priorities across various diplomatic fronts.

The minister also underscored the importance of strengthening the rules-based international order, advocating for initiatives such as cooperation through NATO for joint threat response, a proactive role in the U.N. Security Council and strategic communication for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Addressing the Korean Peninsula issue, Cho outlined South Korea's stance on North Korean denuclearization, emphasizing a multifaceted approach that includes bold initiatives, dialogue and human rights considerations. He also reiterated Seoul's commitment to maintaining the regime of sanctions against Pyongyang while pursuing a vision of a unified Korean Peninsula.

On the economic front, the minister stressed the importance of enhancing economic security through initiatives such as building international solidarity infrastructure, participating in the establishment of digital and AI norms and supporting the global expansion of South Korean small and venture enterprises.
Have YOU also moved to Germany?

Have YOU also moved to Germany?

Young Brits living in Germany have spoken of how much they enjoy living abroad after Grand Designs star Kevin McCloud told first time buyers if they can't afford to buy a house they should 'move to Germany'.

The TV presenter advised young people looking to get on the property ladder to abandon their hopes of buying a house in the UK and instead 'move to another country where the housing market is healthy'.

He told the news website JOE that almost every other North European country and Canada have got 'really healthy markets, lots of diverse opportunities, lots of diverse offers and it isn't hugely expensive'.

The 64-year-old said: 'My advice is move to Germany, maybe that's the way forward.'

Elle, a British woman living in Germany, said one of the best things about the country was the price of alcohol.

Have YOU also moved to Germany? Email chris.matthews@mailonline.co.uk

Elle, a British woman living in Germany, said one of the best things about the country was the price of alcohol

Expat, Berveleen, said: 'It's just an hour's flight from the UK. It's very easy to drive to other countries. I find it so easy to make friends in Germany

Expat Jason Parmar said there was 'good value for food and drinks' and praised the country's parks, as well as the nightclubs

Other youngsters revealed what it was like to live in Germany

This British woman was enjoying 'one last Full English' before heading to Germany

Another man revealed how to get a work visa that lasts for six months in Germany

Houses in Germany costs just 232,941 on average. Meanwhile, a pint of beer costs just 2.14 in Germany, while on average in England a pint is 4.21

She said: 'You can get a good bottle of wine for 2-3. It's super cheap.'

Another expat, Berveleen, said: 'It's just an hour's flight from the UK. It's very easy to drive to other countries. I find it so easy to make friends in Germany.

Expat Jason Parmar said there was 'good value for food and drinks' and praised the country's parks, as well as the nightclubs.

McCloud also took aim at 'immoral' housing developers, who he claims now make on average 68,000 profit per house or per flat, compared to 2009, when the figure was ten times less.

Grand Designs star Kevin McCloud who has told first time buyers if they can't afford to buy a house 'move to Germany'

The TV presenter (pictured) advised young people looking to 'move to another country where the housing market is healthy'

First-time buyers purchased 33% of homes sold in the UK so far this year, marking an all-time high

He claimed the average profit 'big housing developers' now make every time they sell a house or flat was 'about 68,000', ten times what it was in 2009.

McCloud added: 'They've shifted their focus from volume and meeting government targets to the profit they deliver to their shareholders.

'Persimmon, the year before last made 1.1 billion of profit for their shareholders, 25 per cent of their turnover.

'I've only got one word for it and I think it's immoral.'

Speaking about the state of the UK housing market, McCloud said: 'I look at the UK market and I see nothing good here.

'I look at what's happening in Germany, Holland, Netherlands, Denmark, Scandinavia, I look at other, almost every other North European country and Canada  they've got really healthy markets, lots of diverse opportunities, lots of diverse offers and it isn't hugely expensive.'

Foreigners can buy properties in Germany with relative ease.

Even since Brexit, people from non-EU countries can borrow up to 60 per cent mortgages.

Not all banks offer expats mortgages. DKB and Santander are two that do but having even a temporary residence may improve a person's chances.

An extensive report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) concluded that Britain's development sector is 'warped by decades of housing market volatility, the departure of local authorities from the housebuilding sphere, and cuts to capital grant that collectively could have insulated the development market from significant shocks'.

The report claims that 'the UK has both a pro-cyclical housing and development marke'.

The IPPR said: 'Germany has traditionally kept much tighter controls on mortgage lending, meaning that in order to access home ownership, German households have had to save up for longer periods of time than their British counterparts'

House prices in Germany have historically been far more stable than those in Britain

England's trend of ownership is in stark contrast to Germany, where many more people rent

In Germany, the professional sector of people and companies that own property to let it out, is much more invested in the market (37 per cent) than in the UK (18 per cent)

Traditionally, Germany has a much higher rate of housebuilding compared to the UK

It added: 'By contrast, Germany is in a stronger position: its mortgage market has been more tightly regulated and consequently its market (and economy) is less vulnerable to economic downturns; and housing construction is undertaken by a far greater number of actors, including large housebuilders but also, crucially, many smaller, regionally based actors and a significant not-for-profit sector (both within and outside public ownership).

'The two countries utilise the powers of government in quite different ways. In Germany, although private enterprise is crucial in housing finance, housing development and management of stock, the state, locally and nationally, plays a far more 'interventionist' role  in regulation (for instance, of rents and of the mortgage market), in land assembly, and in housing development itself (albeit often through locally owned companies).

'However, in the UK, although the parameters of policy are set by government, the trend is towards stepping back the role of the state in housing provision, and then becoming active when markets cannot achieve satisfactory outcomes (for instance by providing mortgage guarantees, or through the provision of housing benefit to households unable to afford their rent).'

The latest Nationwide house price index showed house prices fell slightly in March, with a 0.2 per cent decline in the average property value.

The monthly decline was down to seasonal adjustment - which aims to smooth out months that are typically more and less active - whereas the non-adjusted average house price actually rose slightly from 260,420 in February to 261,14 in March.

It means the typical home, according to Nationwide's data, has edged up 1.6 per cent annually, with headline figures dragged back by southern England's stuttering property market.

On the same day, Halifax also reported property prices fell in March, reflecting the first monthly fall since September 2023.

The major mortgage lender revealed the average home price fell 1 per cent last month, following five consecutive months of rises.

Despite reports' focus on headline house price figures, the UK housing market doesn't just move as one.

@berveleen Reasons why i moved from the UK to Germany. Alot of people move to Germany from abroad but here are my main reasons: Germany has a good economic structure, and germany is good at engineering and car technology. It is also easy to travel to countries in Europe from Germany. #movingtogermany #pocingermany #americaningermany #ukvsgermany #britabroad  Coming of Age - Blondes

A graph showing the average percentage growth in in house prices across the UK

This map of annual house price changes across the UK shows the North-South divide. House prices are rising in the north and falling in the south

It is made up of thousands of local markets that will all be performing differently from one another.

These differences can even be seen at a regional level where there is evidence of a North-South divide opening up. Prices are generally rising in the North and falling in the South.

The average house price during the first three months of 2024 in Northern Ireland, for example, is up 4.6 per cent year-on-year, according to Nationwide.

Prices in Scotland are 3.7 per cent higher over the past three months than they were during the same period in 2023.

And in the North of England the average home is up 4 per cent in the first three months of this year compared to the same period last year.

EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Homeowners are leaving London in their droves and these are the cheapest postcodes to live in outside the capital - and the priciest ones to avoid! Advertisement

Prices in the South West are down 1.7 per cent compared to this time last year and prices in East Anglia are 1.3 per cent lower.

Housing experts have claimed that 'predatory' investment funds are taking advantage of the British housing market, keeping families paying rent for longer.

There was 1.3billion of private investment in British new builds last year and almost two fifths came from American funds.

Housing expert David Hall told MailOnline: 'It's no surprise at all that it's a business model for a lot of the funds and pension funds and gives them some semblance of certainty and assurance.

'It is going to price people out of the market. These are investment forums that are essentially vultures. They're not social housing buddies. They're not charities. They're predators.

'They're doing nothing wrong. They're allowed to do it. The market is wide open for predators to come in, wide open for the market to be manipulated.

Housing charity Acorn's chief Nick Ballard told MailOnline: 'Britain's housing crisis should be a source of national shame.

'Rising homelessness, 1.3 million families on council housing waiting lists and millions condemned to living in poor quality, insecure and expensive private rented accommodation are problems having a very real negative impact on people's lives, health and on society as a whole.

'House prices are out of reach for many and have been for years. Rising rents and the cost of living crisis mean people are finding it harder and harder to save to put down a deposit.

'Policies of successive Governments have led to 1.5 million council houses sold or demolished and not replaced, so these are no longer a viable option for most.

'House building alone, particularly build-to-rent properties which will siphon money to US investment companies, will not solve the housing crisis.

'The Government must embark on a serious building programme for social homes, to address the shortage of housing, to bring down rental prices and to provide safe, secure and stable homes that can become the foundation of happy and healthy lives.'

As the average price of a London home nears the 1million mark, thousands of homeowners are ditching the capital.

Have YOU also moved to Germany? Email chris.matthews@mailonline.co.uk Advertisement

Instead of buying in London, homeowners are flocking to more affordable towns that are often in the north of Britain, MailOnline previously revealed.

Schemes like the Help To Buy ISA may have worked a decade ago but since savers can only receive a government bonus if they buy under 450,001, resources such as this have also been priced out.

The average house in the capital costs 733,000 but the average London salary is only 44,000 and most mortgages are capped at 4.5 times that, amounting to just 198,000.

The cheapest place to buy a home is in Middlehaven (TS2), in North Yorkshire, where an average house costs just 49,833.

In fact, Yorkshire postcodes make up the top four cheapest places to buy, with Bradford (BD1), Middlesbrough (TS1) and Brambles Farm (TS3) all coming in with prices under 85,000.

Shildon (DL4), in County Durham is the fifth cheapest, with homes selling for an average of just 86,993.

Linz Darlington, the boss of leasehold extension experts Homehold, told MailOnline: 'You can seek a better and more affordable quality of life elsewhere.

'Greater flexibility around working from home has made making a cross-country move more accessible for many.'

Yet while many people are considering leaving the capital, not all postcodes outside of London are as affordable.

In fact, some are even approaching London property prices.

Cobham (KT11), in Surrey, was the most dear, with the average home selling for a shopping 1.4million.

Close behind was Beaconsfield (HP9), in Buckinghamshire, where homes go for 1.3million.

Mr Darlington added: 'Increasingly buyers are looking for property outside of London and the South East  and so they should be.

'While these areas may be the preference of many, as a proposition they are clearly overpriced.

'Leasehold flats have historically been the ''first rung on the ladder'' for many house-buyers in London and the South East, but constant woes from cladding issues, outrageous service charges and spiralling ground rents make these an ever less attractive proposition.

'Issues with flat ownership are compounded by the fact the age of first time buyers has been increasing, which means people are needing for larger, family friendly properties for their first homes.'
New York City could drug rats with birth control in an attempt to cut down on the rodent infestation.

City Democratic Council Member Shaun Abreu introduced a bill on Thursday that would use contraception to sterilize rats, which can produce 15,000 descendants per couple year.

If passed, the city will distribute salty pellets infused with birth control in rat mitigation zones that extend across 10 city blocks in two neighborhoods.

It's unclear how the contraceptive pellets will be distributed, but previous strategies have included dipping grains and meat into oil containing the birth control and strategically placing them around the city.

Lawmakers are considering a bill to use birth control instead of rat poison to eliminate rats from New York City

Rats flock to garbage, but the new salty pellets that are laced with birth control with reportedly be 'better than pizza' for the rodents

The infestation has long been fought with poison, but officials put an end to the method following the death Flaco, the beloved Eurasian eagle-owl - the animal died from consuming rat poisoning.

Lawmakers have previously attempted to deploy contraceptives last year as a solution to the growing rat problem, but Abreu said he hopes this time will be different.

'We believe that we need to take a shock-and-awe approach to the rat problem by throwing everything we have at it,' he said at a council meeting, the New York Post reported.

Ken Siegel, the CEO of SenesTech, a company that produces rat contraceptives called ContraPest, told Fox5 that the pellets are like 'a milk shake' for rats.

'It is a liquid formulation that is high in fat, sweet tasting and very attractive to rats, which need to consume approximately 10 percent of their body weight in water each day,' he said.

Loretta Mayer, a scientist involved in making ContraPest, said the salty pellets will be more mouth-watering for the rats than the garbage to which they've become accustomed, telling The New York Times: 'It's better than pizza.'

If the legislation is passed, the contraceptives will be distributed in the East Village of Manhattan, Harlem, the Bronx and Bed Stuy and Bushwick in Brooklyn

The city has previously attempted to implement birth control measures, including the MTA, which unsuccessfully proposed spreading it throughout subway systems about a decade ago

If the legislation is passed, the contraceptives will be distributed in the East Village of Manhattan, Harlem, the Bronx and Bed Stuy and Bushwick in Brooklyn.

Mayor Eric Adams has 'taken a whole-of-government approach' in the war on rats, spokesperson Liz Garcia told The Times, adding that his office will review the legislation.

'We will continue to work with all of our partners in government on rat-reduction strategies,' Garcia continued.

Figuring out how to widely distribute rat birth control will pose the greatest challenge because the city will need to produce enough pellets to sterilize the millions of rats.

However, the cost to produce the pellets is relatively low, according to Mayer, who said it will amount to about $5 per pound.

This is not the first time the city has pushed to use birth control to eradicate the pest problem, with lawmakers attempting to introduce contraceptives as early as 1967.

At the time, Governor Nelson Rockefeller proposed using small doses of oral contraceptives by bating the rats with doctored food containing one-millionth of a gram of birth control.

Flaco, the owl who escaped the Central Park Zoo, (pictured) died in February after flying into the side of a building. A toxicology report revealed that the owl had high levels of rat poison and a pigeon virus, prompting a renewed push to eradicate rats using contraceptives

READ MORE: Moment group of New Yorkers is forced to hop over scores of vermin scurrying across their path from bins outside pizzeria as 'rat tours' boom in infested city Footage shows a few rats brazenly scurry across the pavement before scores of them emerge from an overflowing bin. Advertisement

Rockefeller said the plan was to dissolve the birth control in vegetable oil, coat grains and meat in the oil and place it strategically throughout the city.

According to a 1967 New York Times article, the rat population was estimated to be between eight and 10 million.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) once again attempted to eradicate the rat population a decade ago by spreading rat contraceptives throughout the subway and last year, Bryant Park attempted to implement similar measures.

The renewed push for an alternative to rat poison stemmed from Flaco the owl's tragic death earlier this year, a year after he escaped from the Central Park Zoo.

Flaco died when he flew into the side of a building and a subsequent toxicology report found the bird had high levels of rat poison and a pigeon virus in his system.

'As captivated as our city was during Flaco's year of freedom, we all collectively held our breath for the many risks that our city poses to wildlife and birds of prey,' Abreu told the New York Post.

'Flaco's autopsy confirmed our worst fears: he ingested a fatal dose of rat poison. Rodenticides are not only toxic for the animals we love, they are increasingly ineffective at reducing rat infestations,' he continued.

'That's why we are introducing Flaco's Law  to build a better, safer, more eco-friendly city.'
More than 30 million Americans could be hit with a water shortage after plumbing issues were found with a major US dam that sits on the Colorado River, officials warn.

Inspectors from the US Bureau of Reclamation found serious pipe damage in the Glen Canyon Dam, which means there will be no spring water release - threatening water supplies downstream.

The pipes in question are called the 'river outlet works,' and they're used to release water down the Colorado River to Lake Mead from the penned up Lake Powell.

A fall release has neither been scheduled nor canceled yet, leaving residents of California, Nevada, and Utah who depend on water from Lake Mead without answers for now.

The pipes in question are called the 'river outlet works,' and they're used to release water down the Colorado River to Lake Mead from the penned up Lake Powell

The Glen Canyon Dam holds back the waters of the Colorado River, forming Lake Powell. Water released from Glen Canyon Dam makes its way down to Lake Mead, but with no releases this spring water levels could fall.

These four 8-foot pipes are the 'river outlet works,' which release water downstream periodically to help re-nourish beaches with sediment.

A fall release has neither been scheduled nor canceled yet, leaving residents of California , Nevada, and Utah who depend on water from Lake Mead without answers for now

There are four eight-foot-wide pipes out of the dam that release water downstream, where it flows about 200 miles into Lake Mead. Lake Mead is the US's largest reservoir - when it's full.

But these pipes may be too damaged to release water to Lake Mead consistently, according to an inspection after their most recent tests, according to the US Bureau of Reclamation.

READ MORE: Lake Powell and Lake Mead are unlikely to refill for another 50 years The lake has been receding due to recent droughts leaving the lake and rivers parched. Advertisement

This means that the residents of Nevada, Utah, California, and parts of northern Mexico who depend on Lake Mead for drinking water may continue to deal with existing water shortages this year - shortages they've faced off and on since 2014.

What's more, the unfavorable inspection report suggests that the river outlet works pipes are not up to the task of releasing water.

This is a problem because the Colorado River Compact requires that water continue to flow.

'In summary, at reservoir levels below the minimum power pool (elevation 3,490 ft), there are concerns with relying on the river outlet works as the sole means of sustained water releases from Glen Canyon Dam,' the memo said.

Farmers and environmental activists have called for draining Lake Powell for years, restoring the natural flow of the Colorado River in that section and refilling Lake Mead.

That movement had not picked up much steam in the past, but with Lake Mead's supply in danger, the situation has changed.

Both Lake Powell and Lake Mead have struggled with waning water levels due to drought and reduced snowmelt from the mountain ranges that flow into the Colorado River Basin.

Lake Mead's water level was at 1,076 feet at the end of February, past the 1,075-foot cutoff indicating water shortage, but its levels have declined through March.

On the Lake Powell side of Glen Canyon Dam, the hydropower penstocks can be seen above the water level. These inlets, situated above the river outlet works, feed water to power turbines.

So the conditions may worsen in the coming months.

After a high flow experiment last year, when a huge amount of water was released to feed Lake Mead, inspectors found significant damage to the pipes involved.

This April, therefore, there will be no such water release.

That means Lake Powell's water level will remain high and safe for those locals.

But without a release, residents downstream are put at risk of water crisis.

The river outlet works are situated about 120 feet lower on the dam than the hydropower penstocks.

Water flowing through Glen Canyon Dam's hydropower turbines helps provide electricity to more than five million people in Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and Nebraska.

That larger set of pipes funnels water through hydroelectric power-producing turbines on the other side of the dam, providing electricity to more than five million people in Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and Nebraska.

Not releasing water from the river outlet works may actually improve power production, leaving more water for the turbines - even though power production at Lake Mead could be hampered if the water levels get low enough.

Completed in 1966, Glen Canyon Dam flooded a section of the canyon with the waters of the Colorado River, creating Lake Powell.

Because Lake Powell needs to retain enough water to reliably generate power, the river outlet works are not often used.

Only with the twice-a-year 'high flow experiment' do they tend to get a workout.

These tests see millions of gallons flow through the river outlet works in just a few days.

Part of their reason is to test the pipes, but it's also about feeding Lake Mead and preserving the Colorado River downstream, which both depend on artificial releases from the dam.
Tesla proudly brags that its Cybertruck is 'made in America' - but a faulty part blamed for several breakdowns in Mexican-made.

Mechanics who stripped the new EV down for an online video discovered that the steering motor has a sticker saying 'made in Mexico'.

The steering motor is the same part that has been blamed for many newly purchased Cybertrucks breaking down - some just moments after leaving the dealership.

The Elon Musk-owned company has described its EV as the 'most America-made pickup truck' - adding that 65 percent of parts are made in the US or Canada.

An image has surfaced online showing a steering motor that was 'made in Mexico ,' which is part of the steer-by-wire system

There are several facilities in Mexico that produce steer-by-wire systems, but one owned by a German company is known to ship systems directly to Elon Musk 's Texas Gigafactory where Cybertrucks are produced

The made in Mexico part was uncovered by automotive consultancy Caresoft, which conducted a teardown to see what makes the Cybertruck tick.

One X user Jim Haselhorst wrote: 'Actually Tesla Cybertruck is not only made in America but so are all the parts used to make it (including the batteries which Ford get from CATL and are made in China).'

There are several facilities in Mexico owned by foreign companies that produce steer-by-wire systems, specifically German-owned Pass Automotive.

Stephan Matz, the general director of Pass Automotive Mexico, announced in 2022 that the company would provide parts for Tesla's EVs.

Matz did not specify which new Tesla lines or which components would be made by the multi-million-dollar operation, in Irapuato in the Mexican state of Guanajuato.

There are five that are known to manufacture electric vehicle motor and steering equipment, according to Mordor Intelligence, which include JTEKT Corporation, Nexteer Automotive Group Ltd., ZF Friedrichshafen AG, NSK Ltd and Robert Bosch GmbH.

Many new Cybertruck owners have found issues with the steer-by-wire system, which has led to the vehicles breaking down - and many times shortly after being driving off the lot.

Entrepreneur Thomas Remo shared a video of him picking up the $82,000 EV in Irvine, California, later finding it 'broke not even six inches off the lot' and failed another '30 times' after on the first day.

Moments after Remo excitedly steps on the gas pedal, the center screen starts flashing red and beeping to alert him about a critical steering issue.

The vehicle automatically slowed down to about four miles per hour, forcing him to pull over and return to the dealer.

While Remo was able to pull off to the side of the road and head back to the dealer, Arizona-based Matthew Chirello was not as lucky when he was hit by the issue this month.

Dozens of users of Musk's X have proclaimed the truck as being 'made in America'

Many of the X accounts appear to be Tesla fan pages

Entrepreneur Thomas Remo shared a video of him picking up the $82,000 EV in Irvine, California, later finding it 'broke not even six inches off the lot' and failed another '30 times' after on the first day

Moments after Remo excitedly steps on the gas pedal, the center screen starts flashing red and beeping to alert him about a critical steering issue

Another California owner also had to have their Cybertruck towed after the center screen started flashing red and showing a steering error alert - and it happened on the same day he took the delivery

Chirello shared his experience on X but has since deleted the posts.

The post included a picture of his Cybertruck being towed and Chirello wrote: 'Love Tesla and my Cybertruck but 'catastrophe failure' with steering and brakes while on a road trip with wife and toddler.'

The steering wheel issue seems to plague newly delivered Cybertrucks in the last month, another California customer shared on Saturday that he drove his vehicle one mile before it had to be towed.

The person shared a post on Cybertruck Owners Club forum with an image of his newly purchased Tesla EV being hosted onto a towing truck.

While Remo was able to pull off to the side of the road and head back to the dealer, Arizona-based Matthew Chirello was not as lucky when he was hit by the issue this month.

Chirello shared his experience on X but has since deleted the posts.

The post included a picture of his Cybertruck being towed and Chirello wrote: 'Love Tesla and my Cybertruck but 'catastrophe failure' with steering and brakes while on a road trip with wife and toddler.'

The steering wheel issue seems to plague newly delivered Cybertrucks in the last month, another California customer shared on Saturday that he drove his vehicle one mile before it had to be towed.

The person shared a post on Cybertruck Owners Club forum with an image of his newly purchased Tesla EV being hosted onto a towing truck.
Scientists have found methane deep within Uranus - revealing the blue planet is gassier than previously thought.

Early experiments of Uranus found the planet is primarily made up of Helium and hydrogen with a touch of methane, but a new study said it considerably outstrips previous expectations.

What's odd about the methane though, is it isn't in gas-form but is frozen or 'mushy,' - like a 7-eleven Slurpee - and is lodged in Uranus's core.

Researchers at the Israel Institute of Technology and University of California Santa Cruz revealed that despite findings that said Uranus is made up entirely of ice, roughly 10 percent is actually methane.

Researchers found Uranus is made up of more gas than previously believed and want to understand why it's made of ice if there is a high amount of methane in its core

READ MORE: See Uranus like never before: NASA releases a stunning photo of the planet Astronomy fans have been treated to a new view of Uranus, revealing its rings, moons, and even storms in incredible detail Advertisement

The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed said the classification of Uranus as an 'ice giant' may no longer be accurate and the vast amounts of methane could have helped the planet form.

Much about Uranus is still unknown because it is located 1.9 billion miles from earth, but because the solar system is constantly moving, the distance changes daily, reaching two billion miles apart.

It has only had one spacecraft fly by it in history, the Voyager 2, in the 1980s, leaving scientists with the belief that the planet it made up entirely of ice.

To get a better understanding, the researchers developed hundreds of thousands of models of Uranus' inside and tried to determine which model most closely resembled the ice giant's mass and radius.

Each model had varying levels of methane, helium and hydrogen, but the researchers found that the models with the most gas element more closely resembled Uranus.

Now they're looking to better understand why the planet is made up of ice if a large surplus of gas is retained within Uranus.

These findings could shed light on the far-away planet and its nearby giants, including Neptune, to verify how they formed and better explain what elements they're made of.
A jaguar seems to stare into your soul as it lands a deadly bite into a caiman. An orangutan holds onto a tree, looking a bit like Gene Kelly. A band of majestic horses kick up snow as they crest a hill.

These are just a few of the photos among the finalists and winners of the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards.

Spanning many categories of amateur and professional photographers around the world, this year's winners captured a world in motion, a world in tension.

Here's a selection of some of the top photos from the Natural World & Wildlife category in the Open Competition, as well as some of the top nature photographs from the National Competitions that recognized the best photographers from each country around the world.

This photo made the shortlist of the 'Natural World & Wildlife' category, shows horses running through thick snow in Inner Mongolia, China. The majestic animals 'decided to take a short-cut from the high ground', says Chee Kin Wong, who captured it.

If you look carefully, you can see that these bats are hanging upside down. The photo was captured by Pedro Jarque Krebs, who turned the image upside down to give these cuddling bats a decidedly relatable appearance.

Ian Ford's photo, titled Caiman Crunch, won first prize in the Natural World & Wildlife category

Ian Ford's photo, titled Caiman Crunch, won first prize in the Natural World & Wildlife category.

This picture was captured at Sao Lourenco River lodge in the Pantanal wetlands, Brazil.

'As we were leaving, we heard that a jaguar had been spotted roughly 30 minutes away,' the photographer said.

'We raced to the scene and encountered this sleek female jaguar stalking her prey... an unsuspecting caiman.'

The photo captures the last moments of life for the caiman.

Big cats like jaguars have extremely sensitive teeth that enable them to find blood vessels in their prey.

The orangutan is a member of the great ape family. The critically endangered primate lives in the forests of Borneo and Sumatra. This photo caught an orangutan swinging on a tree trunk like Gene Kelly in Singin' in the Rain.

Elephants often cover themselves in dust or mud to help protect their skin against heat and sun. This one was captured in the middle of such a dirt bath.

Orlando-based photographer Pascal Fouquet captured this SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket carrying the X-37B spaceplane into orbit on December 28, 2023.

Japanese photographer Masayuki won third prize in his country with this photograph of a heron on a sea wall, clutching onto the concrete with its talons while snatching a fish from the water.

This photo, taken by Jesus Frias of Spain, was shortlisted for the Open Competition. It captures a tender moment between a parent and baby elephant. Elephants are known for their close relationships, including the habit of bringing flowers to the place where their family members died.

One of five images in a series, this photo shows fish, crabs, and all sorts of sea creatures taking refuge on the body of a tunicate jellyfish. To take the photos, Massimo Giorgetta lowered a light into the deep ocean and used it to attract animals.

This photo from Korean photographer Lee Jongkee captures a dreamy moment as a diver passes between the viewer and the surface of the water, seemingly hanging in nothingness.

Caught mid-meal, this great blue heron tosses a fish down its throat. Herons fish by creeping along slowly, gazing down at the shallow water for small fish. Then they strike like lightning, pulling the fish from the water.

A polar bear, outnumbered by walruses nearly its size, wanders away across the summertime Arctic landscape. Polar bears have been affected by loss of sea ice in the Arctic, which they use as hunting grounds.

A sperm whale calf is seen nursing from its mother. Because of their body shapes, the young whale must turn upside down to access its mother's milk. Female whales give birth in tropical waters, living off their stored blubber while their calf nurses. Once the calf has developed enough, they travel back to cold waters to feed.

Photographer Kathryn Cooper captured these starlings whirling and swooping together. 'I make my images by taking multiple successive exposures, which are overlaid onto the same print to reveal motion and behavior that would be otherwise hidden,' she said. 'Im interested in freezing packets of movement to enable the appreciation of both the intricate detail and scale of the coherent movement that might otherwise go unnoticed.'

A single zebra in the midst of a herd of wildebeests. Every year, wildebeests embark on a mass migration, and sometimes they pick up hitchhikers along the way.

Two river otters play together under water. Their fur repels water, giving them a surreal, smooth appearance when photographed underwater.

This photo, one in a series of seven, shows a fennec fox in the North African Sahara Desert. These small mammals have adapted to live with very little water.

These European shag birds turned their faces into the blowing snow. Captured with a slow shutter speed, the snowflakes can almost be seen in motion.
Only in America would people get randy heading into a solar eclipse event.

Pornhub revealed that terms like 'eclipse sex' and 'eclipse orgasm' became the top searches on Monday, rising by a shocking 6,800 percent.

Curious users looked up friskier terms like 'sex during eclipse' and 'eclipse my c***.'

'Eclipse karma' also topped the list, which appeared to be a porn star performing sexual acts on different partners.

However, people appeared to take a break from their Pornhub eclipse fetishes for roughly an hour to watch the celestial event, but resumed normal levels once the moon bypassed the sun.

Pornhub reported that searches for solar eclipse-related videos jumped by 6,800 percent on Monday

DailyMail.com investigated the top terms, finding nothing related to the event that saw the moon block out the sun - it just seems people were in the mood during the eclipse.

If people were hoping to find a solar eclipse sub-genre on Pornhub, they were left disappointed.

There was one video of the eclipse uploaded to Pornhub - but nothing explicit in the footage.

Other popular terms were 'sexy eclipse,' 'witch orgasm and even 'eclipse glasses.'

The top eclipse search terms on Pornhub included 'sex during eclipse' and 'eclipse orgasm,' but viewership dropped by 68 percent as the moon crossed in front of the sun during totality

Pornhub's viewership dropped as the moon reached totality in each state (pictured)

READ MORE: Now scientists say even 'ethical' porn is bad Experts are warning that even the more ethical 'softcore' variety is damaging, leading to poorer satisfaction with their other half. Advertisement

In states where the eclipse reached totality people took a break from their need for self-intimacy, according to Pornhub which said site traffic dropped by 68 percent in states like Maine and Ohio.

In contrast, people on the West Coast didn't see the need to pause their Pornhub viewing, with traffic only dropping by eight percent in California and nine percent in Oregon.

The concept of turning to porn during national and international current events is nothing new - at the height of the ChatGPT system's release, Pornhub saw a surge in searches for AI robots.

In recent months, porn has expanded to allow viewers to build customizable AI models that reference existing porn images and videos to bring a tailored fantasy straight to your phone.

Other more depressing events like Russia's war on Ukraine spurred an uptick in Google searches for porn videos using terms like 'Ukrainian porn,' and 'war porn.'

'The more porn that users watch, the [more] 'niche' they want it to be,' Tom Farr, the head of legal advocacy at the Center to End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE) told Reduxx.

'[This] often includes increasingly violent material, which then encourages people to make this material  consensually or otherwise  in order to profit.'
Cruises offer passengers the chance to relax and recoup while travelling the world - but there are inherent risks that come with being on a floating vessel in the middle of the ocean.

On average, 19 passengers fall overboard every year with just four of those being rescued successfully, according to an industry study from 2020.

So, how can you increase your chances of survival if you ever find yourself in a similar situation?

Expert Cat Bingey, from Utah, has weighed in to reveal the best course of action to take if you ever fall overboard during vacation - after it was revealed that 20-year-old Levion Parker had jumped to his death from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship during a drunken argument with his dad.

Expert Cat Bingey, from Utah, has weighed in to reveal the best course of action to take if you ever fall overboard during vacation

It comes after it was revealed that 20-year-old Levion Parker, from Florida, had jumped to his death from a cruise ship

Levion reportedly jumped from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship during a drunken argument with his dad

How to survive going overboard on a cruise ship, according to an expert Don't panic

Find anything that floats

Fight dehydration

Create a distress signal Advertisement

Cat, who has consulted for Bear Grylls and National Geographic, previously spoke to Business Insider about how to act in such an extreme situation.

She said that those who go overboard will likely be fighting against a whole host of factors from the outset including injury from the fall, rough waters, hypothermia and even predators.

But the survival expert began by explaining that the first step was not to panic as she explained that this is actually 'the biggest thing that will kill you.'

'When people enter into a body of water they usually damage their lungs right away because they gasp,' Cat told the outlet.

'We have such a panic instinct to get air and when people do that they bring water into their lungs.'

Next, the expert urged people to find anything that floats - such as bits of driftwood and buoyant debris - in order to help stay above the water's surface.

It would be impossible to constantly tread water until a rescue party arrives and instead periodic bursts of that, floating and swimming will be your best bet.

'Even a small buoyant device will help you  something you can use with your arms around or your neck over just to help relieve some of the stress if you're not a great swimmer or you're having a hard time staying afloat,' she said.

Cat confirmed that best case scenario is that you collect enough to create a makeshift raft to get out of the water almost entirely.

Elsewhere, the expert insisted that it was more important to focus on food than on water as she explained: 'Our bodies are perfectly, evolutionarily adapted to have this ability to fast for a long period of time.'

Cat revealed that anyone who has potentially fallen overboard will be able to go without rations for a couple of days thanks to reserves stored in fat and the liver.

Dehydration is more of a concern since you also 'don't want to drink any salt water.'

She advised taking steps to conserve the water reserves that are already in your system which includes sheltering from the sun - either using debris or your own clothes to cover your head.

Cat's final point was that creating some form of distress signal will improve your chances of being found.

She candidly concluded: 'In the end, it's kind of a grim situation, but people have survived. And people sometimes just die.'
Decades of wildlife documentaries have captured the most unforgettable sights  fluffy penguin chicks fighting off predators, or a hatchling iguana's nail-biting race against terrifying snakes.

But have you ever seen a rhinoceros stomping through a bustling city centre in rush hour? That's one of the amazing scenes in Netflix's enthralling new four-parter Our Living World.

The Nepalese city of Sauraha has developed on the border of Chitwan National Park, a major rhino sanctuary.

Rhinos need to eat 120lb of vegetation every night, but the best grazing is in the farmlands on the other side of town

'Some of them skirt around the town; some come right down the middle,' says series producer Ben Roy. 'So it was a case of waiting for the moment. It's certainly an event.'

Cate Blanchett is the voice behind the show and Ben says they 'struck gold' as she is knowledgeable about ecology

While the series has a serious message, it's told with wit, a brilliantly diverse soundtrack and dazzling special effects

That's just one jaw-dropping moment in the series, from a team led by executive producer James Honeyborne, whose credits include Blue Planet II.

His Emmy award-winning 2022 series Our Great National Parks had a voiceover from Barack Obama no less, and here the witty narration is by a Hollywood big hitter  Cate Blanchett.

Ben says they struck gold landing Cate, a beekeeper who's very knowledgeable about ecology.

'She's had a podcast about hope in the face of the changing climate. I think her storytelling is brilliant. She can make you think seriously about all this but she can have a bit of fun with it too.'

The series, filmed in more than 20 countries, looks at the planet's secret network of connections that keep us, wildlife and nature alive. And as the climate-change problem intensifies, it's also a big wake-up call.

'The power to set some of these things back on the right track is in the hands of animals; it's the animals who are the heroes,' states Ben. 'By making space for them to do what they do normally, it can help restore balance in the system.'

Each episode is full of engaging action, charismatic characters and fascinating facts sure to leave viewers seeing our world in a new light.

Who knew that if Earth's underground fungal networks were laid end to end they'd extend more than halfway across our galaxy?

Or that the daily movements of elephants in the Congo rainforest allow Africa's trees to lock away an extra one billion tons of carbon every year? They root out the choking undergrowth that may adversely affect the trees, while their manure  each elephant spreads 200lb every day  helps saplings grow into giants.

As Africa's deserts grow bigger, there are consequences thousands of miles away in the Arctic  the sand is lifted and carried by winds to the polar region, where it has a warming effect

Episode one, Nature's Amazing Network, takes us to the Arctic, where baby reindeer must learn to walk to evade predatory eagles and wolves. But there's light relief as the rainy season in Africa prompts a pool party for hippos, with a soundtrack to suit the mood.

Part two, The Rhythm Of Life, features banana fiddler crabs in Australia, who stage an outlandish mating dance to find a partner. Their bodies are just the size of a thumbnail  but they're packed with attitude!

The third instalment, Breaking Point, highlights how climate change is now impossible to ignore and all life must adapt or die.

'We're trying to help people realise that if everything's connected, then all our actions have consequences,' Ben explains.

As Africa's deserts grow bigger, there are consequences thousands of miles away in the Arctic  the sand is lifted and carried by winds to the polar region, where it has a warming effect; but polar bears rely on having ice so they can hunt effectively.

Hundreds gather on Canada's northern shores, waiting for the ice to freeze so they can hunt seals. A couple of young males spar before they're distracted by another predator. One wolf is no match for a bear  but a whole pack is closing in...

Our Living World ends with Road To Recovery, which explains how nature can heal our world, if we let it.

Over 70 countries are engaged in rewilding projects. And supporting the return of just 20 large mammal species could help revive nearly a quarter of all the land on Earth.

But while the series has a serious message, it's told with wit, a brilliantly diverse soundtrack and dazzling special effects. 'It isn't particularly traditional wildlife filmmaking,' admits Ben.

'We're using animals to tell the story, but we're also telling an unseen story. If we could make it feel like magic, then all the better. You wave a wand and something bonkers happens. We leant into that to tell this invisible story.'

Our Living World, from Wednesday, Netflix.
The pair met during their first year studying drama at Manchester University

When anarchic sitcom Bottom exploded onto our TV screens just over 30 years ago in 1991, it was to a mixed reaction.

Critics branded its chaotic characters, unemployed flatmates Richard Richard and Edward Elizabeth Hitler (Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson), 'childish' and 'puerile' but viewers loved it, with six million per episode tuning in.

That criticism was one of the reasons Adrian was initially reluctant to take part in the retrospective TV tribute Bottom: Exposed, which celebrates the show's three series from 1991 to 1995, plus five sell-out stage shows and a spin-off film. But he's found that it has influenced a host of today's comedians.

'I was sort of cajoled into filming it,' smiles Adrian, 67, from a hotel room in Bangkok where he's making a new drama.

'I'm always afraid people are going to say horrible things. We used to love the satirical magazine Private Eye as students, and when their critic Alan Coren called Bottom 'witless tosh' we were broken.

That criticism that Bottom faced was one of the reasons Adrian was initially reluctant to take part in the retrospective TV tribute Bottom: Exposed

Critics branded its chaotic characters, unemployed flatmates Richard Richard and Edward Elizabeth Hitler (Rik Mayall and Adrian Edmondson), 'childish' and 'puerile'

'But I've been doing a podcast [Out To Lunch] where I've met a few young comedians, like Bridget Christie and Daisy Haggard, who profess to like Bottom. As well as Maisie Adam, who's a talking head in the documentary.'

Rik and Adrian met in their first year studying drama at Manchester University. They hit it off instantly and formed a double act, performing their own material to the rest of the drama department every week.

They moved to London after graduating and became part of a new wave of comedy alongside the likes of Jennifer Saunders (Ade's wife of nearly 40 years), Dawn French, Alexei Sayle and Nigel Planer, who all met at the Comedy Store.

'When we came to London we did four gigs in that first year,' says Adrian. 'So the next year we decided we'd book our own venues to do our show. We did a 12-gig tour around village halls playing to about six people a night.

'Then we set up The Comic Strip Club with a group of others going to different pubs. There was no circuit in those days so not only did we invent our own comedy, we invented our own places to play.'

I headbutted the concrete wall and it got a laugh so I kept doing it. Audiences like pain and people falling over

Just three years out of university, The Comic Strip Presents... series of TV movies was commissioned by the newly launched Channel 4 and Rik and Adrian never looked back.

'The BBC were worried about losing a lot of talent to a new broadcaster,' he explains, 'so they commissioned The Young Ones.'

And from that came Bottom, which was written by the pair.

Richie and Eddie were unemployed, crude and violent, borrowing their haphazard slapstick humour from Laurel And Hardy. Considering some episodes featured 300 stunts there were relatively few accidents.

'I have a permanently damaged shoulder from pretending to hit people so much, and there were a few stitches, but we didn't really mind,' Adrian recalls.

'When we did The Comic Strip Club I used to headbutt the concrete wall and it got a laugh so I'd keep headbutting it. Audiences like pain and people falling over.'

The documentary uncovers behind-the-scenes footage from the filming of Bottom that has never been broadcast, and includes exclusive tales from the set as well as comments from celebrity fans.

Rik and Adrian met in their first year studying drama at Manchester University. They hit it off instantly and formed a double ac

The documentary also addresses the tragic accident Rik had on his quad bike in 1998 which left him in a coma for five days, resulting in epilepsy, as well as the difficulty Adrian had when he decided Bottom had run its course despite Rik being keen to continue.

'I perceived a drop in quality, plus I wanted to do other things. Rik changed after the accident and became very emotional, which was odd because we were uptight middle-class men and we'd never done the emotional stuff with each other. Although now I blub all the time. I'm making up for lost blubbing!'

Adrian was devastated when Rik had a heart attack and died aged 56 in 2014, and became emotional recalling his relationship with him on Desert Island Discs last year.

Despite such a long career together, it was their time at university before they became famous that he remembers most fondly.

'We were closer as students, hanging out, going to gigs,' he says. 'We made each other laugh very hard.

'His mum's abiding memory was of seeing us out of the kitchen window sitting in deckchairs, hearing us laughing for hours. She could never understand what was so funny. I was always trying to make Rik laugh and vice versa. I still miss him.'

These days Adrian is fulfilling his long-held dream of starring in more serious dramas. 'I couldn't get into drama school because it was too frightening to audition,' he admits.

''So I thought I'd go to uni because it was free and they offered me a place, and then go to the RSC. It just took about 45 years to get there!'

That ambition fulfilled, does he plan to work with Jennifer again? 'We wouldn't say no  or yes!' he laughs. 'We worked together a lot before we got together and then child-rearing got in the way.

'Now it would look a bit icky. When John Alderton and Pauline Collins played a married couple in a sitcom called No, Honestly, I cringed at the thought they were man and wife in real life.

'If we did anything together now, people would be watching a husband and wife rather than the characters.'
U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro has noted Korea's capabilities to build high-quality ships, including warships, in a cost-effective way while voicing concerns that America's shipbuilding capabilities have "atrophied" over the past decades.

Toro made the remarks during an event organized by the Navy League in Maryland on Tuesday, stressing the need to reverse the United States' underinvestment in modernization and industrial capacity.

"Our Korean and Japanese allies build high-quality ships, including Aegis destroyers, for a fraction of the cost that we do," he said, according to a transcript from the Navy's website.

He shared his experience from a tour of Korean shipbuilding facilities earlier this year.

"When my team and I went to Korea, we were floored at the level of digitization and real-time monitoring of shipbuilding progress, with readily available information down to individual pieces of stock materials," he said.

"Their top executives could tell us  to the day  when ships would be delivered. It's an ethos, a commitment to constant improvement that is the foundation of their reputation for consistently delivering on time, on budget  even during COVID."

Toro lamented America's shipbuilding approach, calling it "inadequate" and "inefficient."

"This is an inefficient approach, requiring far too much time, workforce and taxpayers' dollars," he said. "And it is certainly an approach that is wholly inadequate to pace our 21st-century competitors."

The secretary stressed that the daunting challenges the U.S. faces are an "opportunity" to partner with shipbuilders in the U.S. and with "our closest allies abroad."

"We have an opportunity to attract the most advanced shipbuilders in the world to open U.S.-owned subsidiaries and invest in commercial shipyards here at home," he said.

"This will allow us to modernize and expand our shipbuilding industrial capacity, creating good-paying "new-collar" American jobs that come with a healthier, more competitive shipbuilding workforce." (Yonhap)
Race Across The World

Wednesdays, BBC1

Rating:

Recently retired, determined to live life to the full and grow old disgracefully  most of us have encountered couples like Stephen and Viv when we've been on holiday.

The married couple from Rutland made up one of five pairs competing in the new series of the fantastically addictive Race Across The World.

Viv described her extremely loud husband, Stephen, as 'unintentionally offensive', while admitting that she was hoping to recapture her 'wild youth' with some bad behaviour of her own.

Imagine Steph and Dom from Gogglebox with backpacks and a compass and you'll get the idea.

In this fourth series, the pairs undertake a 15,000km, 50-day journey starting in northern Japan and finishing on the Indonesian island of Lombok

Stephen and Viv, a married couple from Rutland made up one of five pairs competing in the new series of the fantastically addictive Race Across The World

The only problem was that during their endless pursuit of fun, Stephen and Viv forgot that they were taking part in a race.

In this fourth series, the pairs undertake a 15,000km, 50-day journey starting in northern Japan and finishing on the Indonesian island of Lombok (which absolutely none of them had heard of).

No smart phones, no credit cards, just a paper map and a heavy reliance on the kindness of strangers.

As the whistle sounded and the competitors set off on the first leg  a 1,600km trek through Japan  it soon became clear that not everyone shared Stephen and Viv's desire to soak up the culture.

Pals Alfie and Owen, both 20 years old, decided to not bother with sightseeing. As for James, 21, paired with his older sister Betty, for him going abroad was all about 'getting drunk with the boys in Magaluf'.

With only 27 per person per day, money had to be carefully budgeted  making James and Betty's mistake of ordering caviar in a local restaurant a costly one.

TV travel shows are two a penny these days, barely a week goes by without a new one dropping. Invariably they'll feature one or two celebrities exploring destinations and encountering painfully staged mishaps and merriment along the way.

Pals Alfie and Owen, both 20 years old, decided to not bother with sightseeing

While exploring the wonder and beauty of other countries, the competitors also go on their own emotional journeys

It was Eugenie and daughter Isabel (a trainee clinical scientist) who tugged at my heartstrings the most

But BAFTA-winning Race Across The World has managed to tap into something that offers so much more.

While exploring the wonder and beauty of other countries, the competitors also go on their own emotional journeys as they face up to challenges on every leg of the competition.

Parent and child couplings are often the most compelling. This year we have mum Sharon and daughter Brydie who already had an incredible bond and friendship.

However, it was Eugenie and daughter Isabel (a trainee clinical scientist) who tugged at my heartstrings the most.

Their turbulent relationship meant they weren't as close as either would like, so it was wonderful to see them (between tiffs and sulks) learning to appreciate the talents and tenacity of the other.

Eugenie was wide-eyed with amazement and pride when her super-bright daughter was able to converse in Japanese after just three days.

'She's one smart cookie,' said Mum as the pair of them reached the first checkpoint ahead of the others.

Funny, heart-warming and nail-biting, at this stage it's impossible to pick a winner. But I think we can confidently predict that the ones returning with the most selfies and souvenirs will be Stephen and Viv.

Shaky, but watch it for Winslet: The Regime

Sky/Now

Rating:

Kate Winslet has revealed that she and the rest of the cast were consumed by hysterical laughter while shooting new satirical drama The Regime.

Will the folks watching at home be quite so creased up? I doubt it. Although the six-part series has amusing moments, it's never laugh-out-loud hilarious.

Kate Winslet has revealed that she and the rest of the cast were consumed by hysterical laughter while shooting new satirical drama The Regime

Winslet stars as Elena Vernham, the deranged despot chancellor of an unnamed country somewhere in 'middle Europe'.

She has a germ phobia that leads to her being carried around in a sealed sedan chair but also throws banquets where she sings to the crowd. An excruciating rendition of Chicago's If You Leave Me Now is met with a standing ovation  her subjects well aware what will happen if they fail to clap.

When disgraced soldier Corporal Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts, left with Winslet) is hired as her personal mould detector, the pair form a toxic bond. Before long the chancellor is more focused on her lover than affairs of state.

Andrea Riseborough is marvellous as her sarcastic palace manager Agnes, and Hugh Grant pops up as her incarcerated political rival.

But Winslet is the real reason to watch. The plot becomes shaky and repetitive, but the actress proves she has as big a talent for comedy as she does drama, throwing herself into playing the deliciously awful Elena  a dastardly dictator with a designer wardrobe to die for.

DIY recipe for disaster?

Any chance a show featuring people who flooded and ruined their homes thanks to bodged DIY efforts could be Stacey's (above) next series?

Encouraging viewers to save money by plumbing in their own toilets and fixing their roofs feels like an accident waiting to happen.

But that's what we got with Stacey Solomon's Renovation Rescue (Channel 4) when she stepped in to help people who'd been ripped off by cowboy builders.

Any chance a show featuring people who flooded and ruined their homes thanks to bodged DIY efforts could be Stacey's (above) next series?
Sienna Miller and her boyfriend Oli Green have been pictured soaking up the sun on a getaway to Costa Rica three months after welcoming their first child together.

The actress, 42, who also mother to her daughter Marlowe, 10, looked sensational as she strolled along the beach in a purple bikini with Oli, 27.

It was announced in January that the couple had welcomed a baby girl - whose name is not known - almost two years after they were first romantically linked.

Just months after their daughter's arrival, Sienna looked glowing in vibrant swimwear during a walk along the shoreline with her actor boyfriend.

The bare-faced beauty went for a natural look by ditching make-up and wearing her blonde locks loose following a dip in the sea.

Sienna Miller and her boyfriend Oli Green have been pictured soaking up the sun on a getaway to Costa Rica three months after welcoming their first child together

The actress, 42, who also mother to her daughter Marlowe, 10, looked sensational as she strolled along the beach in a purple bikini with Oli, 27

It was announced in January that the couple had welcomed a baby girl - whose name is not known - almost two years after they were first romantically linked

The couple put on a loved-up display as they walked hand-in-hand, talking and laughing as they spent time together on the beach.

Shirtless Oli sported just a pair of swimming shorts, while they were both wearing matching gold chain necklaces.

Sienna's pregnancy was revealed during a beach holiday in August where she stepped out sporting a bump.

In December Sienna covered Vogue as she spoke for the first time about her pregnancy and revealed she was having a girl.

In incredible photos taken to accompany the interview she displayed her bare bump alongside both Marlowe and boyfriend Oli.

Sienna spoke candidly about her pregnancy and how it had been 'unplanned', but admitted she feels 'more psychologically prepared' than with her first born.

During the rare interview, Sienna said that Marlowe has been angling for a sibling for some time. Sienna shares Marlowe with her ex-boyfriend Tom Sturridge.

Sienna also said she'd been fighting her own prejudices about being an older mother and has to learn to stop making a joke out of it.

She told the publication: 'I'd love to get to a point where I didn't feel the need to make a joke of my being older and having a baby, to show I'm in on the joke.'

Just months after their daughter's arrival, Sienna looked glowing as she sported the vibrant swimwear during a walk along the shoreline with her boyfriend

The bare-faced beauty went for a natural look by ditching make-up and wearing her blonde locks loose following a dip in the sea

And in a video she filmed with Vogue, Sienna revealed that the pregnancy was an unplanned one.

She revealed: 'I was very fortunate. I wasn't necessarily trying to get pregnant. This happened as a total surprise and biologically was something I was able to do.'

Sienna went on to further address the stigma around pregnancy as an older woman as she has fought her own prejudices around the subject.

She added: 'I think people are comfortable with a way of living that has existed for many years, which is very misogynistic and patriarchal.

'Like me being the older woman in a partnership with a younger person or being pregnant over 40 and that that's irresponsible and poor child and it's such double standards.'

On what is different this time around, she said: 'I have expectations where I had none before. I feel much more psychologically prepared than I was with Marlowe.

'It was quite a shock, the reality. I hadn't given it the thought, I guess you can't prepare for it. In my mind I imagine it's going to be the loveliest, but I think I've forgotten.'

During the interview, Sienna, who was 31 weeks along at the time, detailed the difference in her mentality surrounding her birth plans between her first and second children.

Oli went shirtless and sported just a pair of swimming trunks

The couple were both wearing matching gold chain necklaces

Sienna's pregnancy was first revealed when she was pictured with a baby bump in August

She admitted she was 'feeling' pregnant in her 'head and face' and noticed she was moving around with a 'slight waddle' - as well as needing to go to the toilet around '18 times a night'.

Sienna said that with Marlowe, she had her heart set on a 'natural' birth, with her sister Savannah, 44, (who had delivered several times at home) as her doula.

But instead, she was induced at the hospital and 27 hours of gruelling labour followed.

She added: 'It was like a horrible trick of the universe. I was like, This can't be what my sister felt at home in her birthing pool.'

Sienna was given an emergency C-section, which she called a destabilizing experience. She said: 'It was so essential in my mind that I got it 'right.' And so emblematic of the kind of mother I would be that I didn't.

'But I know in retrospect that was just the demons of new motherhood. This time, she says, 'I just don't think I'll put that pressure on myself'.'

Sienna welcomed Marlowe with Tom, who she now has a close friendship and co-parenting relationship with.

Tom is now dating her friend Alexa Chung, and she said of the dynamic: '

Sienna's pregnancy was revealed during a beach holiday in August where she stepped out sporting a bump

'Alexa she is much more generous to because she is exquisitely dressed and not her actual mother. It's very loving and cosy and great.'

Sienna said she still wants to try for a natural birth, and she's recently switched to a doctor who is aligned with that viewpoint.

The actress, who was previously in a long-term relationship with Jude Law, 50, confirmed she was expecting her second child during a beach holiday in August.

Sienna and actor Oli have been dating since 2021 and he is 15 years her junior.

Opening up on their age gap for the first time with Vogue, Sienna said: 'I would imagine it would be complicated for anyone to get their head around, but there's been nothing but love and joy.'

'I don't think you can legislate on matters of the heart. I certainly have never been able to.'

And on the issue that he may someday want someone younger, she simply said: 'For Oli, it is real that I might want to be with someone older.'

Later on in the interview, as Oli celebrated his 27th birthday, she joked about being relieved to not be dating a 26 year old anymore.

The two were first romantically linked in early 2022 when they were spotted together in New York - and Sienna has now revealed they met at a Halloween party thrown by a mutual friend.

Sienna is pictured at her baby shower late last year, where everything was themed pink for her girl

Sienna looked incredible as she showed off her bump at the Vogue World Event in September

Sienna spoke about her pregnancy in the January issue of Vogue magazine

Although they kissed when they first met, Sienna said that she then 'retreated', believing the relationship wouldn't 'go anywhere'.

However dogged determination from Oli eventually persuaded her to go out for a drink in New York - and Sienna brought along a wing-woman pal in the form of Emily Blunt.

Emily has said: 'When I got there, it was so beautiful between them. I just gave her a hug and went 'I'm going to slip away'.

'I see so much of her in him, in that free-spirited curious guileless thing that he has.'

Oli is also an actor in the latest series of The Crown as Rupert Finch, a university friend of the Prince and Princess of Wales while they were at St Andrews.

As for THAT divisive two-piece Schiaparelli ensemble she wore at Vogue World in September in London, Sienna said: 'I was nervous about the idea of it, but once I had it on, everything else felt boring.

'I was like, I'll have that photo for the rest of my baby's life. It's kind of fascinating to fight your own prejudice against yourself. I'm constantly doing that.'

Although the Vogue interview was the first time Sienna officially said she was having a baby girl, she previously hinted at it during her very lavish baby shower, where she was joined by family and celebrity friends.

Sienna showed off her blossoming bump in a baby pink dress, accompanied by a flower crown with differing hues of blush, again hinting towards a baby girl.

The actress previously admitted to freezing her eggs after turning 40 because she feared the prospect of having no more children.

She told ELLE: 'Biology is incredibly cruel on women in that decade  that's the headline, or it certainly was for me.

'Then I got to 40 and I froze some eggs. Having been really focused on the need to have another baby, I'm just like, if it happens, it happens. That kind of existential threat has dissipated.'

Sienna is also mother to daughter Marlowe whom she has with her ex Tom Sturridge (pictured together in 2015). The pair are still very close
Samantha Armytage made a surprise return to the Sunrise studio on Friday morning after departing the program three years ago.

Tensions were made obvious as the former breakfast television host, who quit Sunrise in 2021, sat opposite co-hosts Matt Shirvington and her rival successor Natalie Barr to plug the upcoming Channel Seven series of Famer Wants A Wife.

Armytage, 47, sat next to Barr, 56, but kept a few metres' distance for the sit down interview with this season's famers Bert and Dustin.

The pair appeared to exchange several awkward glances at each other as Barr and Shirvington welcomed her back to the show.

'Samantha Armytage, back on the couch,' Barr said.

Samantha Armytage (pictured) made a surprise return to the Sunrise studio on Friday morning after departing the program three years ago

'Hi! Back on the couch... Thank you, it's nice to be back,' Armytage quipped.

Even fans noticed the star's demeanour and took to social media to call it out.

'She looks SO happy to be there' one user sarcastically wrote on Australian TV forum Media Spy.

It's Armtage's first time appearing on Sunrise as part of the publicity tour for FWAW, as she famously snubbed the morning show back in 2022.

She was instead interviewed on The Kyle and Jackie O Show while the farmers sat down with Barr and Shirvington.

During the interview on Friday, Armytage, a real-life farmer's wife who married horse breeder Richard Lavender in late 2020, raved about her life away from the Sunrise studio and her role hosting the matchmaking series.

Tensions were made obvious as the former breakfast television host, who quit Sunrise in 2021, sat opposite co-hosts Matt Shirvington (right) and her rival successor Natalie Barr (left) to plug the upcoming Channel Seven series of Famer Wants A Wife

Even fans noticed the star's demeanour and took to social media to call it out: 'She looks SO happy to be there' one user sarcastically wrote on Media Spy

'It's perfect. This show has been great for me. I'm really enjoying it and meeting these guys. It's fantastic,' she said.

Armytage became Sunrise co-host alongside David 'Kochie' Koch in 2013, before exiting in 2021.

She was replaced by Barr, who remains on the morning program with Shirvington after he took over Koch's duties in 2023.

Nat vs Sam: a timeline of their feud July 2019: Nat jokingly calls Sam 'a b***h-faced moll' when asked if she's as 'nice' as she appears to be on Sunrise. March 2021: Sunrise co-host David Koch reveals he and Nat weren't told about Sam's star-studded farewell lunch at Catalina restaurant in Sydney's Rose Bay. March 2021: Nat is rankled by Sam's claims that married women with children aren't expected to work as hard in their careers. April 2021: Sam reveals she hasn't spoken to any of her former colleagues since leaving Sunrise a month earlier. May 2021: It's discovered that Sam doesn't follow Nat or Kochie on Instagram, despite following many other former Seven colleagues. June 17, 2021: Nat tells The Australian Women's Weekly she and Sam were never friends outside of Sunrise. June 21, 2021: Sam refuses to answer a question about their rumoured feud during an interview on The Kyle and Jackie O Show, and simply says: 'It's better to be talked about than not.' June 21, 2021: Sam later tweets that Nat has 'wanted her job forever' and urges her to 'just get on and enjoy it - and forget about me'. Advertisement

Armytage famously 'upset' Barr with a snarky tweet after departing the show in March, 2021.

'Look, I'm out. Nat's wanted the job forever... and she's finally got it. She just needs to get on and enjoy it - and forget about me (even though I'm unforgettable),' she tweeted at the time.

Barr was reportedly 'gutted' by her predecessor's hurtful tweet months after her 2021 departure, suggesting she was desperate for the top job.

The 56-year-old was not expecting the former anchor to be so 'snarky' after they'd worked together on Seven's breakfast show for years, a source told New Idea at the time.

'No one was more shocked and saddened over Sam's comments than Nat,' the insider claimed. 'She is gutted and has no idea why the snarkiness continues, even though Sam has been gone [from Sunrise] for months.'

Meanwhile, Barr previously revealed she didn't have a close relationship with Armytage.

When asked about rumours they weren't close, Natalie told The Australian Women's Weekly the pair 'got along well in the office' but rarely spoke after the cameras stopped rolling because they didn't have much in common.

'The truth is we didn't really see each other outside the office,' Barr said.

'We had vastly different lives, I guess,' the mother of two added. 'We were in different places. She was hanging with her friends, and I was spending time with my family.

'So, yes, we were in different places.'

Armytage offered a very telling response following Barr's statement during an appearance on The Kyle and Jackie O Show a short time after.

Instead of addressing their frosty relationship directly, she paraphrased Oscar Wilde's famous quote, 'There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.'

Radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson broached the subject, saying: '[Natalie] did an interview where she said you guys weren't that close because you didn't have a lot in common and that you wouldn't really talk when the cameras were off.'

Armytage (front left) became Sunrise co-host alongside David 'Kochie' Koch in 2013, before exiting in 2021. She was replaced by Barr (front right), who remains on the morning program with Shirvington after he took over Koch's duties in 2023

Armytage famously 'upset' Barr with a snarky tweet after departing the show in March, 2021: 'Look, I'm out. Nat's wanted the job forever... and she's finally got it. She just needs to get on and enjoy it - and forget about me (even though I'm unforgettable)'

After a pause, Sam dodged the question by saying: 'Yeah, well, look, I mean it's better to be talked about than not, isn't it in life?'

The former Sunrise host then took a subtle swipe at Natalie for bringing her up in an interview after she'd decided to take a step back from the TV industry.

She said: 'I thought everyone might forget about me when I was having my little sabbatical, but it seems they're not, you know?'

'Look, there's nothing interesting going on there, honestly. I'm just doing my thing, out in the country,' she added.
Jenna Dewan showed off her casual maternity style as she enjoyed an outing with her son, Callum, four in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The Step Up actress, 43 - who will have a hearing with ex Channing Tatum regarding their divorce and Magic Mike financial disagreements - enjoyed quality time with her youngest child before welcoming baby number three.

She shares Callum with fiance, Steve Kazee, 48, as well as daughter Everly, 10, with Tatum.

The dancer - who announced her pregnancy earlier this year in January and her second child with Kazee - sported a short-sleeved, gray Mickey Mouse shirt to help her stay cool in the warmer weather.

She additionally slipped into a pair of comfy, black sweatpants as well as Nike sneakers that were secured with laces.

Jenna Dewan, 43, showed off her casual maternity style as she enjoyed an outing with her son, Callum, four in Los Angeles on Wednesday

A black cap was placed on top of her head and partially covered her brunette locks that flowed down naturally past her shoulders.

Dewan opted for minimal accessories, and added a pair of gold earrings that offered a flashy flare to the look.

A large, black purse was placed over the star's left shoulder to hold a few items she needed during the daytime excursion.

Jenna was spotted carrying her son as they strolled through a parking lot, and later descended an escalator after purchasing a Lightsaber.

Earlier this year in January, she took to her main Instagram page to excitedly announce to her 9.5 million fans and followers that she is expecting baby number three - her second with Kazee.

In a short clip, the actress could be seen lounging inside a bathtub showing off her growing baby bump while her fiance sat nearby while singing and playing the guitar.

The beauty captioned the post with, 'Think if I make @stevekazee serenade me every night the baby will get his voice??'

In October 2018, it was confirmed that Dewan was dating Steve - and the lovebirds became engaged in February 2020, shortly before their son was born.

The dancer sported a short-sleeved, gray Mickey Mouse shirt to help her stay cool in the warmer weather

Jenna was spotted carrying her son as they strolled through a parking lot, and later descended an escalator after purchasing a Lightsaber

During a recent appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show last last month in March, The Rookie actress gave an update on her wedding plans with Steve

During a recent appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show last last month in March, The Rookie actress gave an update on her wedding plans with Steve.

'We've been engaged forever. We got engaged and then there were so many life things that happened.'

The star further explained, 'All of a sudden there was [COVID-19] and [the] pandemic and home and then baby number three. So we kept pushing this day.'

'But now we really are wanting to and really are setting the date and getting it going. I believe the timing is right.'

'I think maybe baby number three had to be here for the whole family [to be] complete. It always works out that way. I believe in divine timing,' she added.

In regards to who she wanted to officiate the nuptials, Dewan revealed that she would 'set a date tomorrow' if she was able to get either Oprah Winfrey or RuPaul to officiate.

Since announcing the pregnancy news, Jenna has been keeping her fans and followers updated on social media.

Earlier this month, she showcased her growing baby bump while sporting a black bodysuit from SKIMS during a productive Pilates session.

Earlier this month, she showcased her growing baby bump while sporting a black bodysuit from SKIMS during a productive Pilates session

Earlier this week on Tuesday, Jenna glammed up and put her bump on display as both she and Steve attended the Fashion Trust U.S. 2024 Awards in Beverly Hills (seen above)

Earlier this week on Tuesday, Jenna glammed up and put her bump on display as both she and Steve attended the Fashion Trust U.S. 2024 Awards in Beverly Hills.

She wore a black, cutout dress with feathery details while the Tony winner donned a stylish black suit along with a fitted, white shirt underneath.

Also this week, it was revealed that Jenna and her ex-husband, Channing Tatum, will soon have a hearing regarding their divorce and Magic Mike financial disagreements.

The exes will be battling it out at a hearing scheduled for tomorrow, April 12, according to People.

Tatum and Dewan have yet to come to a financial settlement and agreement surrounding revenue from the actor's wildly successful Magic Mike franchise.

The exes have struggled to settle a dispute over profits from the franchise for the last few years. They were declared legally single in 2019, a year after Dewan filed to end their marriage of nearly 10 years. Both are seeking to have one another testify at the hearing.

Dewan has listed both herself and her ex on her 'preliminary witness list', according to court documents viewed by People.

Her estranged husband has also placed Dewan and her fiance, Steve Kazee, on his witness list.

Dewan has requested that both she and her ex 'testify regarding all issues related to the parties' marriage including business and financial activities,' according to the filing obtained by People.

Also this week, Jenna and her ex-husband, Channing Tatum, will soon be having a hearing regarding their divorce and Magic Mike financial disagreements; former couple seen in 2017 in L.A.

Tatum and Dewan have yet to come to a financial settlement and agreement surrounding revenue from the actor's wildly successful Magic Mike franchise; Channing seen in 2023 in NYC

As for Tatum, his legal documents state that Kazee 'is expected to testify regarding his and Petitioners cohabitation, joint expenses and all related matters.'

At the hearing, the 'key issues' the exes will be addressing are division of property, breach of fiduciary duty, reimbursement claims, support, and legal fees.

Among the issues of contention is the intellectual property for Magic Mike. According to Dewan, Magic Mike is the 'largest issue' to be resolved.

She alleges they acquired the intellectual property together and highlighted the importance of settling the 'characterization and division' of Magic Mike first as it 'will impact the resolution of the other financial issues in this case.'

Dewan claimed progress on the issue had been held up due to her ex's refusal to 'accept an equal division of the Magic Mike intellectual property.'

In addition, Dewan has alleged her ex placed revenue into 'an irrevocable trust'. She also claimed he gave licensing rights to a third party without informing her.

But her ex has denied her claims, and his attorneys allege in documents that Tatum 'has expended extensive efforts since separation towards the enhancement of the Magic Mike intellectual property and related entities, which Respondent contends give rise to his separate property interest therein.'

The documents also state, 'The Court will need to allocate the community interest and Respondent's separate property interest in the intellectual property and related entities in consideration of Respondents post-separation efforts.'

Dewan also claimed Tatum did not inform her about other business opportunities arising from Magic Mike and received 'one hundred percent of the profits' following their split. She claims she was not made aware of this.

At the hearing, the 'key issues' the exes will be addressing are division of property, breach of fiduciary duty, reimbursement claims, support, and legal fees; seen in 2017 in Las Vegas

The Step Up actress and Tatum notably share 10-year-old daughter, Everly (seen above)

Dewan states other issues in their split can be sorted once they come to an agreement about Magic Mike. A custody agreement regarding their daughter was previously decided upon.

The actress has listed her ex's business manager Eric Fulton on the witness list to address the former couple's 'business and financial activities.'

He is expected to speak on the 'intellectual property' of the Magic Mike franchise and its finances.

There are numerous people set to testify about Magic Mike, and the film's director, Steven Soderbergh, has also been listed as a witness by Tatum. Soderbergh directed the original 2012 film, Magic Mike.
Lottie Moss flashed her toned midriff as she celebrated the one year anniversary of PrettyLittleThing's London showroom on Thursday evening.

The model, 26, who recently claimed to make 30,000 a month on OnlyFans, a pretty bra top with a plunging neckline.

She teamed the piece with a matching semi-sheer skirt and boosted her height with white stiletto heels.

Posing for photos at the event, Lottie carried a black leather handbag and styled her hair straight.

The younger half-sister of Kate Moss was joined at the party by Frankie and Demi Sims, and a slew of other reality TV personalities.

Lottie Moss, 26, flashed her toned midriff as she celebrated the one year anniversary of PrettyLittleThing's London showroom on Thursday evening

The model, who recently claimed to make 30,000 a month on OnlyFans, a pretty bra top with a plunging neckline

The celebration featured DJ set from Jack Fowler and performances by Mutya Buena from Sugababes and Yung Filly.

The outing comes after Lottie gave fans advice on how to make a career on OnlyFans as she opened up about her experience on the X-rated subscription site.

The social media star, who confirmed that she rakes in up to 30,000 a month, put her success down to having a 'niche'.

Speaking on OFTV's In Real Life, Lottie, who regularly shares racy snaps to social media, revealed her 'wacky and impulsive' personality is what makes fans come back to her page.

She said: 'You have to find your niche and roll with it. I am quite wacky and impulsive, I like to put those things out there.

'I started doing OnlyFans about two or three years ago now, and I just fell in love with it, the people who do it and the company itself.'

'You can really show whoever you are and I want people to be proud of that and own it,' she added.

Lottie started modelling at age 16 for Teen Vogue, revealed she 'loves the creative freedom' she now has with her content.

She teamed the piece with a matching semi-sheer skirt and boosted her height with white stiletto heels

The younger half-sister of Kate Moss was joined at the party by Frankie and Demi Sims, and a slew of other reality TV personalities

Amber Turner wore a leggy mini skirt with a matching blazer

Casey Gorman and Callum Jones flashed smiles while posing on the pink carpet

Chris Hughes put on a casual display in an oversized white T-shirt

Indiyah Polack and Dami Hope looked stylish in their quirky ensembles

Danielle Harold wore a cut-out khaki dress

GK Barry looked incredible in a sheer panelled dress

Mya Mills wore a mini dress with a white shirt layered underneath

Miles Nazaire opted for a pale pink shirt and black trousers

Twins Eve and Jessica Gale opted for two-piece sets

Georgia Steel rocked a double denim look

Tanya Manhenga flashed her toned midriff in low-cut faux leather trousers

The outing comes after Lottie gave fans advice on how to make a career on OnlyFans as she opened up about her experience on the X-rated subscription site

The social media star, who confirmed that she rakes in up to 30,000 a month , put her success down to having a 'niche'

Speaking on OFTV's In Real Life , Lottie, who regularly shares racy snaps to social media , revealed her 'wacky and impulsive' personality is what makes fans come back to her page'

Arabella Chi was also in attendance

Hannah Elizabeth wore a figure hugging bodysuit

Demi Jones posed for a fun photo in a PrettyLittleThing branded mini dress

She pulled her hair back into a sleek ponytail

The TOWIE cast were all smiles at the event

Leah Taylor looked stunning as she headed home

She continued: 'I love OnlyFans because you control your image, you control what you put out there and how you show yourself and what you show as well.

'I think with modelling you get sent to the shoot and they take the pictures and they release what they want I do the styling, I do the hair, the make up, I get to do it all myself, it is so fun.'

Discussing why she first joined OnlyFans, she said: 'I wanted to move away from modelling and do something different, which was OnlyFans, and it was just something that excited me.

'I remember the first shoot I did for OnlyFans with a bunch of girls and I just thought, look how fun it is when all women come together and can be ourselves and sexually free and open.'

Faith Kelly looked chic in a navy blue set

Olivia Bentley wore a plunging dress and long coat

Abi Moores showed off her figure in a daring mini dress
They revealed they have sparked up a romance after going on a few dates.

But it seemed Demi Sims and Eve Gale were not ready to go official as they posed separately at the PrettyLittleThing showroom party on Thursday.

The Love Island star, commanded attention as she put on a very busty display in a black strapless crop top and matching mini skirt as she posed with her twin sister Jess.

While Demi who looked cool in a double denim number and bold brown boots posed for solo snaps at the VIP party before being joined by sister Frankie.

Despite not being posing together, the pair seemed in good spirits as they posed with their sisters.

It seemed Demi Sims (pictured) and Eve Gale were not ready to go official as they posed separately at the PrettyLittleThing showroom party on Thursday

The Love Island star commanded attention as she put on a very busty display in a black strapless crop top and matching mini skirt as he posed with her twin sister Jess

Their new blossoming romance comes after Eve failed to find love on Love Island: All Stars.

The model failed to make a lasting connection in the South African villa earlier this year but since returning to the UK she has found love elsewhere with the TOWIE star.

Last week, Eve revealed that she and Demi had a flirty friendship for years but have now enjoyed their first date together and are getting on like a house on fire.

A source has told OK!: 'Eve and Demi's date may have come as a surprise, but they've been texting a lot behind the scenes. They quickly realised just how much they liked one another and the attraction took off from there.

'It all started as a friendship and it's allowed them to grow naturally. They know each other well and are always giggling and laughing. Everyone around them is pleased to see them happy.'

The twins divulged details on their love life while appearing on Demi's Sims Squared podcast, alongside her sister Frankie.

Demi said: 'Me and Eve went on a date last week for anyone watching and it was our first date, wasn't it?'

Eve added: 'We kind of had other dates, but it's not been a date date. That was like our first date. I had the best time.'

Eve shared that she and Demi had previously been pals for three years, after meeting at a Boohoo event in London after lockdown.

Describing their first date, Demi told listeners: 'I was nervous [the date] was going to get awkward, you know because usually we've always got people around?

While Demi who looked cool in a double denim number and bold brown boots posed for solo snaps at the VIP party before being joined by sister Frankie

Despite not being posing together, the pair seemed in good spirits as they posed with their sisters (pictured Eve left ad Jess right)

The twins were later seen departing with co-star Demi Jones who looked stunning in a black minidress

Demi and Frankie were all smiles as they exited the party linking arms

'I was thinking, ''Is there going to be any awkward silences?'', then when I picked you up, you were chewing my ear off. I actually didn't get a word in.

'And then we got there, had a drink, had so much food... and yeah, it was quite a short date to be fair.

'It was quite a private date, though, because we were in Amazonico and we were in this booth and everyone was behind us. People assume we're besties, don't they?'

But Eve admitted that she only had eyes for Demi, adding: 'I said this to Demi, I never would actually go on a date with another girl.'

Eve's return to the Love Island villa proved to be short-lived as she and Casey were dumped from the villa after their romance broke down.

The couple struck up a relationship when Eve arrived in the villa with her twin sister Jess and Joe Garrett.
Matthew McConaughey shared there's an 'initiation process' to Hollywood, as he discussed his 30-year acting career in a new interview.

The 54-year-old Interstellar star  whose first lead role was alongside Sandra Bullock in the 1996 film A Time to Kill  talked about his 'ups and downs' over the years in a new interview with People.

'I, like anyone, have had my ups and downs. My star meter has been higher, my star meter has been lower. I've won Oscars, I've been arrested playing the bongos naked.'

'Overall, I believe there's been inherent goodwill for me, but it did not keep me from figuring out my own initiation into the industry,' the actor, who recently attended the Oscars with his wife Camila, 41, added.

'Because there's an initiation process. There just is. You can get tips, but you've got to figure out the BS, cut the wheat from the chaff along the way.'

Matthew McConaughey shared there's an 'initiation process' to Hollywood, as he discussed his 30-year acting career in a new interview; seen in 2020

The 54-year-old Interstellar star  whose first lead role was in the 1996 film A Time to Kill (pictured)  talked about his 'ups and downs' over the years in a new interview with People

He said that while it is possible to get 'tips' from others in the industry, he believes it is important for aspiring actors to learn how things work for themselves.

'There's a lot of things you learn 10 years after being in Hollywood and you go, 'Well, why didn't they tell me that in year two?'

But now, the 'Dallas Buyers Club' actor wouldn't even share what he's learned with his younger self.

He said: 'Oh, I wouldn't tell him. I'd let him figure it out the same way I did. Take feeder roads off the highway. Get confused, get frustrated, feel lost, and overcome it.'

In 2020 Matthew reflected on his tumultuous Hollywood career, including a now-infamous brush with the law in 1999.

The actor, who has reinvented himself in recent years by refusing rom-com roles in favor of more dramatic work, published a candid memoir about his life, which looks back at his past indiscretions.

Matthew's transformation from Hollywood bad boy to family man coincided with his change from starring in fluffy rom coms to hard hitting blockbusters, a move dubbed the 'McConaissance'.

In 1999, a knock on his door was the police responding to the neighbor's noise complaint. They found him stoned and naked with a bong nearby.

'I, like anyone, have had my ups and downs. My star meter has been higher, my star meter has been lower. I've won Oscars, I've been arrested playing the bongos naked,' he said; seen in 2022

'There's an initiation process. There just is. You can get tips, but you've got to figure out the BS, cut the wheat from the chaff along the way,' he explained; seen on March 10 at the Oscars

'There's a lot of things you learn 10 years after being in Hollywood and you go, 'Well, why didn't they tell me that in year two?' he added; seen in 1996

His acting career started in 1993 with the coming-of-age comedy Dazed and Confused where he played David Wooderson (pictured in a still)

He resisted arrest and was hauled off to jail for resisting as well as on a marijuana possession.

The charges were dropped eventually but he had to pay a fifty dollar fine for disturbing the peace, a mere drop in the bucket for the actor who was then earning $4 million a film.

Matthew's acclaimed performance in Dallas Buyers Club led to his Oscar win in 2014, and he has continued to appear in dramatic roles including True Detective and Interstellar.

Matthew has Levi, 15, Vida, 14, and 11-year-old Livingston with wife Camila  whom he wed in 2012  and believes parenthood has made him a better actor.

He said: 'Having children, I know, has made me a better artist and a better actor. Kids see things for the first time all the time.

'Their questions are innocent. I've become a better storyteller because I have kids.'

The Oscar-winning star took on his voice role of Buster Moon the koala in 'Sing' and its sequel so his children could enjoy his work for once, and it was a particularly special moment for him when the kids realized his involvement.

Matthew shares three kids with wife Camila Alves, 41  Levi, 15, Vida, 14, and 11-year-old Livingston  and believes parenthood has made him a better actor; seen in 2024

'Kids see things for the first time all the time. 'Their questions are innocent. I've become a better storyteller because I have kids,' he said; pictured with his three kids and Camila

He said: 'Yeah, it was fun.... And as they got older, there's nothing I made that they could see.

'As you become a parent, you end up watching mostly what your kids are watching. And so I was like, "Man, I've never been a part of an animated film and I like doing voice work" and so I went and did that.'

'I remember sitting in the premiere of ['Sing'] and they're listening and going, "Hey, that sounds like... " They had that moment where they look at the screen, audio, look at me sitting next to them, do the math and go, '"That's you!" That was really cool to them.'

'And that was something I did for them and the kid in all of us.'
A two-part documentary series about Nicole Brown Simpson is in production at Lifetime to coincide with the 30-year anniversary of her June 12, 1994 murder.

News of the project comes a day after Brown Simpson's ex-husband and accused killer O.J. Simpson died at 76 after batting cancer.

The project about Brown Simpson, who was fatally stabbed at the age of 35 along with friend Ronald Goldman, 25, outside of her Brentwood, California home, is titled The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The project about Brown Simpson 'has been in the works for more than a year,' the outlet reported, noting that it's being made on 'a bid to reclaim her narrative.'

Lifetime has conducted interviews with 'more than 50 participants' including family and friends, according to THR.

A two-part documentary series about Nicole Brown Simpson is in production at Lifetime to coincide with the 30-year anniversary of her June 12, 1994 murder. News comes a day after O.J. Simpson died at 76. The two were pictured March 16, 1994 at an LA film screening

The project will feature 'exclusive archival video and unprecedented family access' ahead of the 30-year milestone of her murder, in which no one was ever convicted.

The docuseries is part of the network's Stop Violence Against Women initiative, according to the outlet, which also includes the forthcoming film Gaslit by My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story.

According to THR, the project had initially been slated to come out in June, but could be moved up on the broadcasting calendar with new attention following Simpson's death.

Simpson and Brown wed in 1985 and had two kids, Sydney, 38, and Justin, 35, prior to their 1992 split.

O.J. Simpson's family announced his death in a tweet Thursday that he 'succumbed to his battle with cancer' Wednesday while 'surrounded by his children and grandchildren.'

Authorities subsequently confirmed Simpson - who was acquitted in the 1994-1995 criminal murder trial in the deaths of his ex-wife and Goldman, but held liable in a 1997 civil trial - had been in his native Las Vegas at his time of death, according to the AP.

In the decades since her death, Brown Simpson has been fondly remembered by friends including Kris Jenner and Faye Resnick.

Jenner in 2016 told People she considered Nicole an 'amazing friend' who supported her through difficult times.

'There were some really great precious moments we shared, [ones] that you have when you spend your life with someone,' said Jenner, who gave her daughter Kendall a middle name of Nicole in memory of her late confidante. 'I loved my friend really hard and [her death] was a loss for so many.'

Simpson and Brown wed in 1985. Pictured at a party in Brentwood for the 1984 Olympics on June 12, 1984, exactly 10 years to the day before her murder

The project had initially been slated to come out in June, but could be moved up on the broadcasting calendar with new attention following Simpson's death

They had two kids, Sydney and Justin, prior to their 1992 split. Pictured at the Naked Gun 33 1/3 premiere in LA in March of 1994, less than three months before the murders

The project about Brown Simpson ' has been in the works for more than a year' and is being made in 'a bid to reclaim her narrative'

In the decades since her death, Brown Simpson has been fondly remembered by friends including Kris Jenner

Ronald Goldman's father Fred Goldman, who has tirelessly advocated for justice in the decades since his son's murder, told DailyMail.com earlier Wednesday that Simpson's death marked 'a further reminder' of Ronald's premature passing.

'It is a further reminder of my son's murder and a reminder about the many years we have missed Ron,' he said. 'His death is a reminder that Ron and Nicole were murdered by him. I am not going react to my thoughts about him dying.'

Fred wrapped up in saying, 'I have nothing to say about him. My response will not be about OJ's death but about he loss of my son's life by him. Thank you for calling. That is the only thing that I have to say.'

Fred subsequently told NBC News in a statement that Simpson's death was 'no great loss.'
Elizabeth Hurley stunned fans when she slipped into a plunging metallic Versace dress 13 years after first wearing the piece.

The actress, 58, and her lookalike son Damian, 22, coordinated in low-cut ensembles at a special screening of his feature directorial debut Strictly Confidential in New York City on Wednesday.

And sharing photos of the premier to Instagram afterwards, Elizabeth revealed she had in fact worn the gown 13 years prior.

'Phew, it still fits. I love finding dresses Ive worn in the past and of which I have happy memories and wearing them again to something special.

'I first wore this dress in 2011 to a charity event in London and then again last week in NY to the premiere of Strictly Confidential If you can still fit into it- it aint broke,' Elizabeth said.

Elizabeth Hurley, 58, stunned fans when she slipped into a plunging metallic Versace slip dress 13 years after first wearing the piece

Sharing photos of the premier to Instagram afterwards, Elizabeth revealed she had in fact worn the gown 13 years prior (pictured with ex Shane Warne in 2011)

The glamorous mother-son duo share the same stylist Mike Adler, who dressed the actress in a cleavage-boosting golden gown and her 21-year-old 'twin' in a black silk blouse and matching trousers.

Praising the star on her youthful looks, fans shared their thoughts in the comments section: 'How is this possible , have you found the fountain of youth.'

'Insane how you look even better in that dress today!'; 'It fits better, madame'; 'I think you look better now!! Amazing!'; 'Are you a vampire?'; 'Insane how you look even better in that dress today!'

A special screening of Damian's feature directorial debut Strictly Confidential was held at the Robin Williams Center in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday.

Much ado has been made over Damian directing Elizabeth in her lesbian sex scenes with co-star Pear Chiravara who, at age 28, is is 30 years younger than her.

But the model has defended his decision to direct his mother in the film's racier moments, revealing they didn't even have an intimacy co-ordinator on set.

He insisted that while it may appear 'strange' to regular people, for those who have grown up in the industry as celebrity offspring, it is routine.

Speaking to The Sunday Times about filming his mother's racy scenes, he admitted: 'I hate to say that it felt totally normal. I don't know what that says about us.'

The actress and her lookalike son Damian, 22, coordinated in plunging ensembles at a special screening of his feature directorial debut Strictly Confidential in New York City on Wednesday

'Phew, it still fits. I love finding dresses Ive worn in the past and of which I have happy memories and wearing them again to something special,' she said in an Instagram post

She added: 'I first wore this dress in 2011 to a charity event in London and then again last week in NY to the premiere of Strictly Confidential If you can still fit into it- it aint broke'

Praising the star on her youthful looks, fans shared their thoughts in the comments section: 'How is this possible, have you found the fountain of youth'

'I was speaking to a lot of my friends who are also second generation of parents in the industry. They say exactly the same thing: that things to outsiders that may seem totally strange and extraordinary, for us we'll just have grown up with in everyday life.'

Damian added that there was no need for intimacy co-ordinators on set, claiming 'everyone was very comfortable'.

He added that Elizabeth taught him about sex when he was 'ludicrously young', insisting that it is a 'beautiful and natural' act, but banning him from watching violence in films.

The mother and son's relationship has raised eyebrows in the past, especially after Elizabeth revealed the secret photographer behind her seemingly endless stream of bikini Instagram posts was in fact Damian.

She made the revelation after uploading a series of sizzling holiday snaps of herself braless and in a bikini for Valentine's Day in 2018, but many were unsure how to take her confession, with several branding the relationship 'weird'.

But Damian insisted he didn't understand why people found it strange, declaring: 'It's business. We don't think about it for any more than point, press, done, post.'

Detailing their relationship, he explained that the pair were more like 'siblings' than parent and child, because it was just the two of them as he was growing up, admitting that their closeness has been even more acute and vital in recent years.

He added that they have 'twin telepathy' to the extent that they can 'have complete conversations just nodding and shaking our heads', saying they are 'extraordinarily alike and in tune'.

Elizabeth, who shares Damian with ex-Steve Bing, previously told Access Hollywood she felt 'safe and looked after' shooting the film.

Elizabeth explained: 'It's relaxing knowing someone's behind the camera who looks out for you. The things that his script needed me to do weren't necessarily things I'd always done in movies many times.

A special screening of Damian's feature directorial debut Strictly Confidential was held at the Robin Williams Center in Midtown Manhattan

Much ado has been made over Damian directing Elizabeth in her lesbian sex scenes with co-star Pear Chiravara who, at age 28, is is 30 years younger than her

'But having him there meant that I felt safe and looked-after, and I knew in [post production] he'd look after me.'

She added: 'So actually it's kind of liberating to work with your family. I may do it again.'

Damian agreed with his mom, telling the publication he didn't find the intimate scenes problematic and stressed that the small time frame for shooting meant he couldn't afford to.

He said 'We felt in our comfort zone, it's very strange. I think, also, when you're on an independent film, you have 18 days to shoot, every single second counts. You can't sit around mulling scenes, thinking 'What if?''
Denise Richards and Charlie Sheen's eldest daughter Sami Sheen, 20, took to Instagram on Thursday to promote her OnlyFans.

The brunette beauty  who previously referred to herself as a 'sex worker'  stripped down to a skimpy pink bra and thong underwear for a photo in her bedroom.

She was sprawled out in her bed on a pink fuzzy blanket and stuck out her tongue out at the camera.

She linked to her OnlyFans and teased in the caption: 'Don't click this'

Three months after ringing in her 18th birthday, Sami launched her account on the X-rated site with her mom Denise's blessing.

Denise Richards and Charlie Sheen 's daughter Sami Sheen, 20, took to Instagram on Thursday to promote her OnlyFans

She charges subscribers $75 for a bundle of explicit videos and photos of herself simulating sex acts in the shower.

The majority of creators on OnlyFans are sex workers that create NSFW material, but the platform also offers content from musicians and physical fitness professionals.

Sami took her OnlyFans career to the next level as she released her first ever 'boy/girl collab' last month.

She is shown in a compromising position, completely naked, with her OnlyFans star boyfriend Aiden David positioned behind her.

'The collab you've been waiting for drops this Tuesday ;),' she wrote on X (formerly Twitter), referring to the joint explicit video with her beau that is three years her senior.

She later wrote on her story, 'just wanna clarify that my B/G collab does NOT consist of any s3x tapes. Not sure where people are getting that info from but it's wrong!!! just don't want any subs getting mad at me for false advertisement.'

Her dad Charlie was initially opposed to his daughter's adult gig.

In a statement to E! News, the Two And A Half Men star had expressed, 'I do not condone this, but since I'm unable to prevent it, I urged her to keep it classy, creative and not sacrifice her integrity.'

Three months after ringing in her 18th birthday, Sami launched her account on the X-rated site with her mom Denise's blessing

Sami seen with (L-R) sister Lola, 18, dad Charlie Sheen, 58, and mom Denise Richards, 53

He then added, 'She is 18-years-old now and living with her mother. This did not occur under my roof.'

Denise later responded to her ex-husband's statement and also informed the outlet, 'Sami is 18, and this decision wasn't based on whose house she lives in.

'All I can do as a parent is guide her and trust her judgement, but she makes her own choice.'

However, shortly after, Charlie's view on the situation altered after Richards 'illuminated a variety of salient points, that in my haste, I overlooked and dismissed.

'Now more than ever, it's essential that Sami have a united parental front to rely upon, as she embarks on this new adventure. From this moment forward, she'll have it abundantly.'

The Wild Things actress also took the step to start an OnlyFans account of her own to further show her support for Sami.

And late last year in November, Sami revealed that she had successfully undergone breast augmentation surgery.

She admitted that she'd always wanted 'to have big boobs like my mom.'

She charges subscribers $75 for a bundle of explicit videos and photos of herself simulating sex acts in the shower

Late last year in November, Sami revealed that she had successfully undergone breast augmentation surgery

She frequently shows off her results on Instagram in the hopes of attracting people to her OnlyFans; seen in February

She frequently shows off her results on Instagram in the hopes of attracting people to her OnlyFans.

Most recently, Sami stunned her 163,000 followers as she modeled a skimpy bikini during a night swim with her boyfriend Aiden David, 23.

She rocked a two-piece that featured a black bandeau top and a black thong bikini bottom as her semi-wet hair fell over her shoulders.
South Korea and the United States on Friday reaffirmed a plan to hold a discussion-based exercise simulating North Korea's use of a nuclear weapon as part of efforts to strengthen their joint response to Pyongyang's nuclear threats.

The two sides noted the plan for the tabletop exercise (TTX) during their regular defense talks, the Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue, in Washington on Thursday (local time), according to a joint statement.

The allies had agreed to incorporate scenarios of nuclear operations into their regular summertime military exercise in a session of the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) last December.

Although the allies held their first TTX on nuclear weapon use by the North in February last year, it would mark the first time such training takes place in conjunction with the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise in August.

As part of efforts to deepen cooperation against the North's threats, President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden issued a joint declaration last April to establish the NCG to discuss nuclear and strategic planning.

During the latest talks, the U.S. side reaffirmed its commitment to the defense of South Korea, reiterating that any North Korean nuclear attack against the United States or its allies and partners will result in the end of the North's regime, according to the statement.

The two sides also discussed ongoing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, noting that it undermines peace and stability in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region, and pledged to respond to it in close coordination with the international community.

They also held in-depth discussions on cooperation for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

"The U.S. side noted the ROK's efforts to collaborate on MRO initiatives and affirmed that such cooperation is in accordance with the direction of enhancing the Alliance's posture and capabilities," it said, referring to the South by the acronym of its official name, the Republic of Korea.

In February, U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro visited shipyards in South Korea to explore possible MRO cooperation.

In addition, the two sides agreed to make efforts for a Reciprocal Defense Procurement agreement that will provide reciprocal market access as part of efforts to enhance supply chain resiliency and strengthen defense cooperation, the statement said.

They also agreed to modernize the alliance with advanced technologies, noting that South Korea's recently launched military reconnaissance satellite contributes to their joint surveillance capabilities.

South Korea launched its first military spy satellite into orbit last December and its second one earlier this week under a plan to acquire five such satellites by 2025.

The two sides stressed the importance of trilateral cooperation with Japan, and they agreed on the importance of preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, according to the statement. (Yonhap)
Ethan Hawke and his daughter Maya Hawke stole the spotlight at the premiere of their movie Wildcat on Thursday.

The 53-year-old Black Phone actor and the 25-year-old Stranger Things actress enjoyed an adorable father-daughter bonding moment on the red carpet at the Angelika Theatre in New York City.

Cutting a dapper figure in his modern gray suit, Ethan stopped to pose for the shutterbugs as he placed his arm on the shoulder of his eldest child, who stunned in a tuxedo jacket and mesh skirt.

The pair flashed their megawatt smiles as they were joined by a black suit-clad Laura Linney.

The terrific-looking trio all played a part in the film Wildcat, a drama centered around Southern author Flannery O'Connor. Ethan directs, while Maya and Laura co-star as the leads.

Ethan Hawke and his daughter Maya Hawke stole the spotlight at the premiere of their movie Wildcat on Thursday

The pair flashed their megawatt smiles as they were joined by a black suit-clad Laura Linney

'Flannery OConnor wrote about what she knew, and what she knew about was white hypocrisy,' Maya, who plays multiple roles in the film, including the author, told The Hollywood Reporter.

'What she knew how to look at was, "Oh, I dont know how to fix this, but I see that theres something deeply sick about this space that I grew up in and exist in."'

The project was truly a family affair: Maya also executive produced the film, with Ethan's wife Ryan Hawke producing as well.

'[Art] very much leads to family. And theres biological family, and then theres also logical family. And many of us in the arts have a curated logical family,' Linney said of working with Ethan and Maya, per IndieWire.

'When you actually have both, when you get to witness someone who has both, who are both biologically and logically related, thats a very powerful thing, and I find it very unusual to see.

'So it was incredibly moving to be on set every day, not only just to watch someone who I admire and love to watch him just evolve in these unbelievably inspiring ways, and then to watch his daughter be the beneficiary of a lifelong conversation that she has had with him. Its an incredibly moving thing to be a part of. And so I just sat there and just soaked it all in.'

The Wildcat premiere comes after Ethan walked the same red carpet as his ex Uma Thurman 20 years after their shock split.

The former couple both showed up at the 40th-anniversary screening of Sophie's Choice at the Museum of Modern Art, alongside the film's stars Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, and Peter MacNicol.

Cutting a dapper figure in his modern gray suit, Ethan stopped to pose for the shutterbugs as he placed his arm on the shoulder of Maya

The trio has all contributed to the film Wildcat, a drama centered around Southern author Flannery O'Connor: Ethan directs, while Maya and Laura co-star as the leads

Maya stunned in a tuxedo jacket and mesh skirt

The project was truly a family affair: Maya also executive produced the film, with Ethan's wife Ryan Hawke producing as well

'Flannery OConnor wrote about what she knew, and what she knew about was white hypocrisy,' Maya, who plays multiple roles in the film, including the author, told The Hollywood Reporter

Ethan chose a modern shirt to wear under the jacket

Ethan's wife Ryan Hawke was a producer on the film

'[Art] very much leads to family. And theres biological family, and then theres also logical family. And many of us in the arts have a curated logical family,' Linney said of working with Ethan and Maya, per IndieWire

Ethan, Ryan, Laura and Maya all had a hand in creating Wildcat

During the event, Thurman opted for a solo appearance in front of the cameras, while Hawke was spotted teaming up with Cate Blanchett, seemingly avoiding each other.

Uma and Ethan exchanged vows in 1998 after crossing paths on the set of the sci-fi film Gattaca in 1996.

The couple welcomed two children: Maya and Levon, 22.

Their romance ended in 2003 amid speculation that Ethan had been unfaithful with their children's nanny, Ryan Shawhughes.

Despite the actor's denial of the affair, he later publicly started dating Shawhughes after finalizing his divorce from Thurman in 2005.

In 2008, Ethan and Ryan tied the knot and went on to become parents to two daughters: Clementine, 15, and Indiana, 12.

During her initial interview post-divorce with Oprah Winfrey in October 2005, Uma openly acknowledged that the separation took a toll on her self-esteem, leaving it 'pretty mangled.'

She characterized it as 'excruciating' and said communication with Ethan remained 'very difficult'.

'So it was incredibly moving to be on set every day,' Laura added

Philip Ettinger, Maya, Alessandro Nivola, Laura, and Ethan

The Wildcat premiere comes after Ethan walked the same red carpet as his ex Uma Thurman 20 years after their shock split; seen in 1998

Thurman and Hawke welcomed two children: Maya, 25, and Levon, 22

While not confirming the affair rumors, she did imply that there was a sense of 'betrayal' between them.

This marked Thurman's second venture into marriage, having previously been wed to Academy Award-winner Gary Oldman from 1990 to 1992.

Meanwhile, Uma recently starred in comedy-thriller The Kill Room alongside her daughter Maya.

It marked the first time the Kill Bill vet appeared alongside her eldest child in a feature film.
Lisa Rinna has addressed the recent comments about her changing appearance.

The former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 60, has been showing a very smooth visage as of late, with some fans making quips about her 'new face' and questioning whether she's undergone any enhancing beauty treatments.

The star responded to the comments in an Instagram Story, and said she is getting her SkinVive injections 'dissolved' because they added 'volume' she 'didn't want.'

She wrote: 'Be aware... You guys don't use skinvive don't let any injectors say to you that it's going to just make your skin glowing and hydrated, they claim it's not going to add any volume, It absolutely adds volume!'

'It added volume on me. I didn't want that. Luckily we could dissolve it today. Whew.'

Lisa Rinna, 60, has addressed the recent comments about her changing appearance, after fans noted her very smooth visage as of late; seen on April 9

Back in January, Rinna was featured on aesthetic practitioner Francine Queen of Threads TikTok, showing her getting SkinVive injections in her face, and a before and after look

Lisa (pictured in 2020) has received criticism for her changing face in recent months

The star responded to the comments in an Instagram Story, and said she is getting her SkinVive injections 'dissolved' because they added 'volume' she 'didn't want

Back in January, Rinna was featured on aesthetic practitioner Francine Queen of Threads TikTok, showing Lisa getting SkinVive injections in her face.

SkinVive is a 'modified hyaluronic acid gel thats injected as intradermal microdroplets below the surface of the skin, increasing hydration to improve cheek smoothness.'

In the video Francine shared that Lisa was 'bothered by these little transitional issues' on her face.

She also stated that she didn't want to 'add any more volume' to Lisa's face.

The clip then showed a before and after of Lisa, with the caption 'Lisa Rinna's trick to staying fresh as a daisy.'

The recent comments about Lisa's smooth face come after a number of red carpet appearances.

On Wednesday she was seen looking flawless while attending An Unforgettable Evening gala in Beverly Hills.

She looked as if she was going goth with a modest black crushed velvet dress with a maxi skirt, long sleeves and a high collar, along with a large bow tied over her trim midriff.

In the video Francine shared that the star was 'bothered by these little transitional issues' on her face. She also stated that she didn't want to 'add any more volume' to Lisa's face

SkinVive is a 'modified hyaluronic acid gel thats injected as intradermal microdroplets below the surface of the skin, increasing hydration to improve cheek smoothness'

There was also a before and after of her eyes

The recent comments about Lisa's smooth face come after a number of red carpet appearances; seen on Wednesday at An Unforgettable Evening gala

Lisa is pictured at the Fashion Trust U.S. Awards in Beverly Hills on April 9

She complemented the look by styling her dark hair in a bob with strand dangling in crescents to frame her face.

And on Tuesday, she displayed her smooth visage as she attended the Fashion Trust in Los Angeles.

The star looked different, however, with more nude, natural looking makeup. In recent months the beauty has gone with the 'no makeup' look.

She showed off her taut complexion and plump pout as she posed at the event, and opted to wear a quirky black dress over a beige corset.

The siren wore her dark tresses in cropped tresses and opted for a fairly natural makeup look along with a light pink lip.
Dennis Quaid, 70, smoldered with a youthful glow on the arm of his fourth wife Laura Savoie, 31, in Las Vegas this Thursday.

The pair of them were attending the glittering CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards, thrown at the nightclub Omnia at Caesars Palace on the Strip.

That evening Dennis was due to be presented with the Cinema Icon Award, the past recipients of which include names like Steve Buscemi and Samuel L. Jackson.

The event boasts that it is 'designed to single out the achievements and great work of actors, actresses and filmmakers alike, the awards accord the global theatrical exhibition industry the opportunity to say thank you for bringing the best in filmmaking to their screens. '

For his latest night on the town, Dennis oozed movie star magnetism in a head-to-toe black ensemble including a tweed blazer with a fade trim.

He tucked in his shirt and left a few of the top buttons beguilingly undone over his chest, treating the photographers to his signature rakish grin.

Dennis Quaid, 70, smoldered with a youthful glow on the arm of his fourth wife Laura Savoie, 31, in Las Vegas this Thursday

The pair of them were attending the glittering CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards, thrown at the nightclub Omnia at Caesars Palace on the Strip

Meanwhile his leggy wife draped her willowy figure in a sheer netted nude dress, worn over a matching slip that highlighted her petite frame.

Letting her silky curtains of blonde hair down, the CPA and licensed realtor rounded off the look with a towering pair of print heels.

Dennis announced late in 2019 that he had gotten engaged to Laura - and then over the summer of 2020 they eloped in Santa Barbara.

Laura and Dennis' romance has repeatedly hit the headlines over the years, on account of the fact she is 39 years younger than he is.

He has previously been married to Carrie actress PJ Soles, rom com star Meg Ryan and Texas realtor Kimberly Buffington.

His eldest son Jack Quaid, whom he shares with Meg, is 31 years old, and is a few months senior to his latest stepmother.

Kimberly and Dennis, who went through multiple splits and reconciliations before their final divorce, share 16-year-old twins Zoe and Thomas.

Dennis enjoyed his first flush of celebrity in 1979 when he appeared in his breakout movie Breaking Away, a coming-of-age film about recent high school graduates.

That evening Dennis was due to be presented with the Cinema Icon Award, the past recipients of which include names like Steve Buscemi and Samuel L. Jackson

As he moved into the 1980s, he rose to prominence through such pictures as The Right Stuff, The Big Easy and Great Balls Of Fire!.

However, the drug-fueled whirl of the era's showbiz milieu was impossible to resist for Dennis, who plunged into a cocaine addiction.

Explaining that drugs were included on 'some movie budgets,' Dennis once said: 'You know, I was doing cocaine pretty much on a daily basis during the 80s.'

He told Megyn Kelly during her stint on the Today show: 'I spent many, many nights screaming at God to take this away from me. I'll never do it again, because I've only got an hour before I've gotta be at work.'

During an interview with Larry King on CNN decades ago, Dennis claimed that 'cocaine at that time was considered harmless.'

He recalled reading doctors in magazines 'saying, it is not addicting. It is just - alcohol is worse. So I think we all fell into that. But that's not the way it was.'

Covering People last year, he looked back on the moment he decided to stop, sharing: 'I remember going home and having kind of a white light experience that I saw myself either dead or in jail or losing everything I had, and I didn't want that.'

Dennis revealed: 'I was in a band and we got a record gig. They broke up the night they got it, and they broke up because of me, because I was not reliable.'

For his latest night on the town, Dennis oozed movie star magnetism in a head-to-toe black ensemble including a tweed blazer with a fade trim

He checked into rehab and reconnected to Christianity, on the grounds that addicts fall back on the drugs 'to fill a hole inside us. When you're done with the addiction, you need something to fill that hole, something that really works, right?'

The year he sobered up, 1990, he attempted to reassure his mother Juanita by penning the Christian song On My Way To Heaven.

His aim in writing the musical number was 'to let her know I was okay, because I wasn't okay before then,' Dennis explained.

In his post-cocaine quest to find religion, Dennis initially sampled multiple options, poring through the Bhagavad Gita and the Koran.

However, it was ultimately the Christian faith he was reared on that managed to provide him the solace he needed in the absence of drugs.

'That's when I started developing a personal relationship. Before that, I didn't have one, even though I grew up as a Christian,' he shared.
She has starred in numerous acclaimed films and blockbusters over the years.

But Angelina Jolie has revealed her daughter Vivienne JoliePitt, 15, is much more of a theater aficionado than a cinephile  and she ended up being a 'tough assistant' to her on her latest theatre project.

The 48-year-old Oscar winner shared on Thursday at the Broadway premiere of the musical adaptation of The Outsiders  which she produced  that Vivienne was the 'biggest theatre head' of the family, according to People.

'Viv. Definitely Viv,' she reiterated, while Justin Levine, who wrote the book and score to The Outsiders, chimed in: 'Definitely Viv.'

'Hands down,' the By The Sea filmmaker concurred as she arrived at the premiere with Vivienne and her son Pax JoliePitt, 20.

Angelina Jolie has revealed her daughter Vivienne JoliePitt, 15, is much more of a theater aficionado than a cinephile  and she ended up being a 'tough assistant' to her on her latest theatre project

The 48-year-old Oscar winner shared on Thursday at the Broadway premiere of the musical adaptation of The Outsiders  which she produced  that Vivienne was the 'biggest theatre head' of the family, according to People

Jolie arrived at the premiere with Vivienne and her son Pax JoliePitt, 20. Afterward, the trio was seen heading for dinner at the swanky restaurant Cipriani

Angelina added that her daughter  a fraternal twin to son Knox  was a taskmaster for her.

'Shell correct me. Shell say, "Didnt you read the memo? We have to do this, we have to go through this,"' she recalled.

'Shes been a really tough assistant,' Angelina joked. 'She takes it very, very seriously.'

Vivienne, whom she shares with her ex-husband Brad Pitt, took on The Outsiders after it was previously adapted as a critically acclaimed 1983 film by director Francis Ford Coppola, based on the 1967 novel by S.E. Hinton.

The film featured a number of actors just at the start of their careers who would be labeled as part of the 'brat pack,' a group of rising stars who often acted together, including Rob Lowe, Matt Dillon, Emilio Estevez, as well as supplemental members Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze and Ralph Macchio.

Jolie's youngest daughter was primed to work on The Outsiders after she caught another production in San Diego.

Jolie was seen walking up to the theater with Pax by her side while wowing in a shimmering metallic gold gown teamed with a rust-hued cape.

The star wore her blonde locks in soft waves and sported smoky eye make-up and red lipstick.

Angelina added that her daughter was a taskmaster for her. 'Shell correct me. Shell say, "Didnt you read the memo? We have to do this, we have to go through this,"' she recalled

Jolie's youngest daughter was primed to work on The Outsiders after she caught another production in San Diego

After catching the show, the trio headed out to the swanky restaurant Cipriani for dinner

Pax was seen walking next to his mother, while Vivienne hung back to chat with a friend

Pax looked as if he could have been a Brat Pack member himself as he emanated low-key cool

He wore a white T-shirt to dress down a black tuxedo jacket with slim notched lapels. He paired it with black pants and white sneakers and swept his shaggy hair back

Earlier, Pax appeared to steer clear of the red carpet while leaving his mother and sister to join the other members of the production

Pax looked as if he could have been a Brat Pack member himself as he emanated low-key cool.

He was dressed in a simple white T-shirt that he used to significantly dress down a black tuxedo jacket with slim notched lapels.

He paired it with black pants and added to his relaxed style with a pair of classic white sneakers.

The celebrity child sported a thin mustache and wore his shaggy hair slicked back.

Vivienne wore a stylish blue boiler suit and styled her long hair with a side part for the event as she joined the cast and her mother on the red carpet.

Pax appeared to steer clear of the red carpet while leaving his mother and sister to join the other members of the production.

After catching the show, the trio headed out to the swanky restaurant Cipriani for dinner.

Pax was seen walking next to his mother, while Vivienne hung back to chat with a friend.

In a statement last year, Jolie said that her daughter, 'reminds me of my mother in that she isn't focused on being the center of attention but in being a support to other creatives.'

'She's very thoughtful and serious about theatre and working hard to best understand how to contribute,' the actress continued.

In a statement last year, Jolie said that her daughter, 'reminds me of my mother in that she isn't focused on being the center of attention but in being a support to other creatives.'

'She's very thoughtful and serious about theatre and working hard to best understand how to contribute,' the actress continued

'I hope to be able to contribute while continuing to learn from this amazing team, who I have been working with since my daughter brought me to see the show at La Jolla Playhouse'

'I can't begin to express how excited I am for this musical to make its Broadway debut and look forward to sharing this new adaptation of The Outsiders with the world,' she added

Angelina and Vivienne joined members of the production on the red carpet

'I hope to be able to contribute while continuing to learn from this amazing team, who I have been working with since my daughter brought me to see the show at La Jolla Playhouse.'

'I can't begin to express how excited I am for this musical to make its Broadway debut and look forward to sharing this new adaptation of The Outsiders with the world.'

The outing comes after Angelina, who is embroiled in a lawsuit with ex-husband Brad Pitt, 60, over their French vineyard, claimed via her legal team that Pitt was physically abusive to her before their 2016 row on a plane, in newly-filed legal documents linked to the former pair's battle over the winery.

On Thursday, attorneys for Jolie filed papers in a motion in Los Angeles County Superior Court, saying that Pitt had a history of being physically aggressive with Jolie before the well-documented September 14, 2016 row during a flight from Nice, France to L.A.

Pitt has denied all of the allegations of physical abuse, and was not charged amid an FBI probe into the incident; Dailymail.com has reached out to Pitt's reps for comment on the story.

'While Pitt's history of physical abuse of Jolie started well before the family's September 2016 plane trip from France to Los Angeles, this flight marked the first time he turned his physical abuse on the children as well,' Jolie's legal team said in court docs about the ongoing legal proceedings.

A source close to the Maleficent actress said that Pitt declined to enter into counseling for domestic violence, and disregarded severe family problems by seeking partial custody of their six children: Maddox, 22, Pax, 20, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 17, and twins Vivienne and Knox, 15.

'Pitt never came to this understanding and not only sought 50-50 custodial time - including with children with whom he had not had a stable relationship in years - but also sought sole custody if the children did not sufficiently bond with him,' Jolie's lawyers told the court in legal docs.

Angelina wowed in a shimmering metallic gold gown teamed with a rust-hued cape

The star wore her blonde locks in soft waves and sported smoky eye make-up and red lipstick

The star sported statement earrings as she attended the premiere

Attorneys on Thursday for Jolie filed papers in a motion in Los Angeles County Superior Court, saying that Pitt had a history of being physically aggressive with Jolie before the well-documented September 14, 2016 row during a flight from Nice, France to L.A; seen in 2023 in Las Vegas

Jolie's legal team said in their court filing Thursday that 'despite this distressing request, Jolie still did not seek sole custody' of the children.

'Instead she advocated that the children's wishes and needs be prioritized, based in part on what the children felt they could do, and for a custody plan formulated in the children's best interest to heal.'

Jolie's lawyer Paul Murphy told Dailymail.com in a statement that the information released in Thursday's filing is revealing of why the Fight Club actor wanted Jolie to sign a non-disclosure agreement amid the parting.

'Mr. Pitt refused to purchase Ms. Jolie's interest when she would not be silenced by his NDA,' Murphy said.

'By refusing to buy her interest but then suing her, Mr. Pitt put directly at issue why that NDA was so important to him and what he hoped it would bury: his abuse of Ms. Jolie and their family. After eight months of delays, this motion asks the Court to force Mr. Pitt to finally produce that evidence.'

An insider close to the situation told Dailymail.com that the Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood actor has caused himself problems with his long-running litigation over the French winery.

'Pitt is drawing all of this out of Angelina,' the insider said. 'She does not want to be here, she does not want to be raising any of these facts, and she is doing it only because Pitt's lawsuit against her is forcing her to defend herself.'

The insider described the situation as 'incredibly sad,' adding that Jolie 'just wishes' Pitt 'could move on and let her be.'

Jolie's lawyer Paul Murphy told Dailymail.com in a statement that the information released in Thursday's filing is revealing of why the Fight Club actor wanted Jolie to sign a non-disclosure agreement amid the parting; seen in 2015 in Hollywood

By prolonging the legal battle over the winery - which the former couple purchased in 2008 for $28.4 million - Pitt has left himself more exposed to further problematic allegations that could circulate through the court system, and subsequently, to the public, the insider said.

Pitt has since accused Jolie of being a 'hypocrite' due to claiming that he wanted her to sign an NDA to 'control' the actress amidst selling their French vineyard.

The actor's lawyers informed the LA Superior Court on Friday that Jolie's claims regarding the NDA was simply a cover to 'rationalize' betraying Brad, per TMZ. His legal team also claimed that Angelina had asked Pitt to sign an NDA months later.

Late last month in March, a source told DailyMail.com that the former couple's years-long divorce battle had been nearing the end and were in final negotiations.
Emily Ratajkowski looked stylish as ever while attending the Seamark Seafood & Cocktails and Old Wives' Tale Speakeasy grand opening in Boston on Thursday.

The 32-year-old model slipped into an elegant simple sleeveless black dress featuring a sultry side slit for the occasion.

The raven-haired beauty  who recently showed off her casual style while out in NY  paired the look with strappy black heels and a small chic purse.

She wore her tresses parted in the middle and cascading down in a straight style. As for glam, she opted for a touch of blush and nude lipstick.

The speakeasy is tucked away inside the recently opened seafood restaurant, providing the perfect place and ambiance for an after dinner drink.

Emily Ratajkowski, 32, looked stylish as ever while attending the Seamark Seafood & Cocktails and Old Wives' Tale Speakeasy grand opening in Boston on Thursday

While inside Emily struck a number of poses with a large wooden ship's wheel hanging on the wall behind her.

Others in attendance at the opening included the Real Housewives of New Jersey star Melissa Gorga, 45, and her husband Joe Gorga, 49.

Melissa looked incredible as she put on a leggy display in a metallic silver bodysuit and a gold mini skirt.

The beauty accessorized with a silver purse and a matching silver necklace and bracelets.

Her long brunette tresses were parted in the middle and lightly curled.

She accentuated her features with dramatic lashes, a touch of blush on her cheeks, and nude gloss.

She was pictured pouring drinks behind the bar inside.

Meanwhile Joe sported a cream short-sleeve top, black jeans and black shoes.

The model slipped into an elegant simple sleeveless black dress featuring a sultry side slit

The raven-haired beauty paired the look with strappy black heels and a small chic purse

She wore her tresses parted in the middle and cascading down in a straight style. As for glam, she opted for a touch of blush and nude lipstick

The mom-of-one had fun posing inside

Behind her was a large wooden ship's wheel

Others in attendance included the Real Housewives of New Jersey star Melissa Gorga, 45, and her husband Joe Gorga, 49

Melissa looked incredible as she put on a leggy display in a metallic silver bodysuit and a gold mini skirt

She was pictured pouring drinks behind the bar inside

The eatery is located at Encore Boston Harbor, and is known for their fresh, pier-to-plate cold-water fish, lobster, and shellfish.

The menu is helmed by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Michael Schlow.

Schlow is a successful restaurateur who has opened and operated a number of restaurants throughout his career, including Radius (now closed) and Alta Strada.

The restaurant was designed by the Rockwell Group and features a nautical theme.
Lupita Nyong'o brought the glitz and glamour to the CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on Thursday night.

The Oscar-winner, 41, hit the red carpet in a sparkly gold gown that showed off her runway-worthy figure.

Lupita's show-stopping frock had a sexy low back and dainty spaghetti straps.

She accessorized with jeweled drop earrings and she rocked a pointy gold manicure for the star-studded soiree inside Omnia Nightclub.

The actress was this year's Star of the Year award recipient, which has been previously won by the likes of Zendaya and Kevin Hart.

Lupita Nyong'o brought the glitz and glamour to the CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on Thursday night

The Oscar-winner, 41, hit the red carpet in a sparkly gold gown that showed off her runway-worthy figure

Lupita took to the stage to accept the honor and later posed for photos on the red carpet with her A Quiet Place: Day One co-star Joseph Quinn, who took home the Breakthrough Performer of the Year award.

Quiet Place: Day One is the latest chapter in John Krasinski's A Quiet Place franchise and serves as a prequel to the 2018 film.

An extended trailer was played during Paramount's presentation at CinemaCon this week, which Lupita and Joseph attended along with Paramount chief Brian Robbins.

The film was originally slated for a March release but, due to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strike, it will not hit theaters on June 28.

Lupita unveiled a glimpse at her upcoming animated film The Wild Robot at CinemaCon on Wednesday.

She took to the stage at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas with director Chris Sanders and Dreamworks Animation President Margie Cohn.

Lupita spoke about voicing the lead character in the upcoming animation, before she and Chris unveiled unfinished footage from the film.

Based on Peter Browns book, the story follows Roz, a robot voiced by Lupita, who is accidentally marooned on an uninhabited island.

Lupita's show-stopping frock had a sexy low back and dainty spaghetti straps

She accessorized with jeweled drop earrings and she rocked a pointy gold manicure for the star-studded soiree inside Omnia Nightclub

The actress was this year's Star of the Year award recipient, which has been previously won by the likes of Zendaya and Kevin Hart

Her A Quiet Place: Day One co-star Joseph Quinn took home the Breakthrough Performer of the Year award

The co-stars posed for photos together on the red carpet

Quiet Place: Day One is the latest chapter in John Krasinski's A Quiet Place franchise and serves as a prequel to the 2018 film

The film was originally slated for a March release but, due to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strike, it will not hit theaters on June 28

The co-stars looked thrilled to be reunited on Thursday

Quinn looked handsome in a retro-inspired pinstripe suit

There, the city robot meets and learns from the animals in her new environment, including a fox who offers her some vital life advice.

Set for release in September, the film marks Sanders' first Dreamworks film since The Croods in 2013, after earning critical praise with How To Train Your Dragon in 2010.

The voice cast will also include Pedro Pascal, Catherine OHara, Bill Nighy, Kit Connor, Stephanie Hsu and Mark Hamill.

Though she's back in work mode, Lupita and her new boyfriend Joshua Jackson were spotted packing on the PDA as they vacationed in Mexico last month.

The father-of-one shockingly split from ex-wife Jodie Turner-Smith last autumn. The exes share daughter Juno, four.

Turner-Smith cited 'irreconcilable differences' in her divorce filings as she made a bid to remove herself from her 'unhealthy' marriage with Joshua last October.

Weeks after she filed for divorce, the actor was photographed holding hands with Lupita, hours after it was confirmed they were dating.

Jodie recently spoke for the first time to the Sunday Times Style magazine about why her marriage ended.

Lupita took to the stage to accept the honor

The Mexico-born star put on her reading glasses while delivering an acceptance speech

She smiled at the audience as her shiny gold trophy sat next to her

Quinn graciously accepted his honor during the ceremony

'Sometimes things we really want to work just don't end up working. And that's OK. The most important thing is that you choose what's healthiest for you and your family and definitely your children.

'There are so many different moments in our life where we look at ourselves and say, "Who am I and am I being true to that?"

'If the answer is no, then you have to make a move because I believe that there are visible scars from staying in places that are not good for us.

'And they don't just affect us, they affect everybody around us. I don't think it's a failure. We obviously had such a beautiful moment together. And now it's time for a new moment for both of us,' she stated.
Dennis Quaid, 70, shared that he named his son Jack, 31, after a world-renowned movie star he first met back in the 1970s.

In 1975, Dennis visited the set of a western called The Missouri Breaks that featured his older brother Randy in a supporting role.

Directed by Arthur Penn, the film featured a world-class cast including Marlon Brando, Harry Dean Stanton and Frederic Forrest.

But there was one actor in The Missouri Breaks who had an especially strong impact on Dennis, who was still jobbing around in showbiz and had yet to become famous.

More than a decade later in 1992, Dennis welcomed a son with his second wife Meg Ryan - and named him after this movie star, he told E! News.

Dennis Quaid, 70, shared that he named his son Jack, 31, after a world-renowned movie star he first met back in the 1970s; father and son are pictured in 2015

Dennis met the legendary actor in 1975, years before he himself became a star; he is pictured this Thursday at the CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards in Las Vegas

In a new interview, Dennis revealed that Jack was named after none other than Jack Nicholson, who was by then already an A-list celebrity.

'I just got to L.A. and my brother got a part in a movie called Missouri Breaks. So I drove my brother's car up to Montana,' he recalled.

'My very first movie set, I'm watching these actors, my real heroes. We hung out at Jack Nicholson's house every night. He and Randy were good friends.'

Dennis recalled that the actors in the film 'gave me a lot of encouragement. And that's a true story that we named him Jack after that.'

Currently Dennis is married to his fourth wife Laura Savoie, who is 31 years old and just a few months younger than her stepson Jack.

Dennis announced late in 2019 that he had gotten engaged to Laura - and then over the summer of 2020 they eloped in Santa Barbara.

Laura and Dennis' romance has repeatedly hit the headlines over the years, on account of the fact she is 39 years younger than he is.

He has previously been married to Carrie actress PJ Soles, Jack's mother Meg Ryan and Texas realtor Kimberly Buffington.

In 1975, Dennis visited the set of a western called The Missouri Breaks that featured his older brother Randy in a supporting role alongside Jack Nicholson (left) and Marlon Brando (right)

F(left to right, top to bottom) Frederic Forrest, Jack Nicholson, John P Ryan, Randy Quaid and Harry Dean Stanton are all pictured in a publicity still for the movie

More than a decade later in 1992, Dennis welcomed a son with his second wife Meg Ryan - and named him after Jack Nicholson; Dennis and Meg are pictured in 1996

Kimberly and Dennis, who went through multiple splits and reconciliations before their final divorce, share 16-year-old twins Zoe and Thomas.

Dennis enjoyed his first flush of celebrity in 1979 when he appeared in his breakout movie Breaking Away, a coming-of-age film about recent high school graduates.

As he moved into the 1980s, he rose to prominence through such pictures as The Right Stuff, The Big Easy and Great Balls Of Fire!.

However, the drug-fueled whirl of the era's showbiz milieu was impossible to resist for Dennis, who plunged into a cocaine addiction.

Explaining that drugs were included on 'some movie budgets,' Dennis once said: 'You know, I was doing cocaine pretty much on a daily basis during the 80s.'

He told Megyn Kelly during her stint on the Today show: 'I spent many, many nights screaming at God to take this away from me. I'll never do it again, because I've only got an hour before I've gotta be at work.'

During an interview with Larry King on CNN decades ago, Dennis claimed that 'cocaine at that time was considered harmless.'

He recalled reading doctors in magazines 'saying, it is not addicting. It is just - alcohol is worse. So I think we all fell into that. But that's not the way it was.'

Currently Dennis is married to his fourth wife Laura Savoie, whom he is pictured with at CinemaCon at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas this Thursday

Covering People last year, he looked back on the moment he decided to stop, sharing: 'I remember going home and having kind of a white light experience that I saw myself either dead or in jail or losing everything I had, and I didn't want that.'

Dennis revealed: 'I was in a band and we got a record gig. They broke up the night they got it, and they broke up because of me, because I was not reliable.'

He checked into rehab and reconnected to Christianity, on the grounds that addicts fall back on the drugs 'to fill a hole inside us. When you're done with the addiction, you need something to fill that hole, something that really works, right?'

The year he sobered up, 1990, he attempted to reassure his mother Juanita by penning the Christian song On My Way To Heaven.

His aim in writing the musical number was 'to let her know I was okay, because I wasn't okay before then,' Dennis explained.

In his post-cocaine quest to find religion, Dennis initially sampled multiple options, poring through the Bhagavad Gita and the Koran.

However, it was ultimately the Christian faith he was reared on that managed to provide him the solace he needed in the absence of drugs.

'That's when I started developing a personal relationship. Before that, I didn't have one, even though I grew up as a Christian,' he shared.
The Real Housewives of Dubai cast is returning for a dramatic second season.

Bravo released a teaser trailer for the upcoming season, which will see the return of Caroline Stanbury, Chanel Ayan, Caroline Brooks, Sara Al Madani, and Lesa Milan, on Thursday.

The show will also see the arrival of new Housewife Taleen Marie, who fills a spot of former housewife Nina Ali. Saba Yussouf will appear as a friend of the cast.

One dramatic scene from the teaser shows Caroline, 47, and her younger husband Sergio Carrallo, 29, at a fertility clinic speaking with a specialist, as they continue on their journey of trying to expand their family.

The pair appear to face a potential dilemma in their marriage when Caroline asks Sergio if not having a child would be a 'deal-breaker' for him, to which he replies, 'I want a baby.'

Caroline Stanbury's, 47, husband Sergio Carrallo, 29, hinted that not having a child would be a 'deal-breaker' for him on the new teaser trailer The Real Housewives of Dubai Season 2

However, Stanbury's daughter, Yasmine, 16, doesn't seem thrilled at the idea.

During a dinner with her mom she tears up as she tells her, 'It's all about pleasing Sergio, that's what really upsets me.'

Caroline already shares three children with her ex-husband, Cem Habib.

Aside from Yasmine, they share twin sons, Zac and Aaron Habib, 13.

The trailer starts out with Ayan, 45, announcing 'Dubai is hot. But I come in hotter.'

Ayan also appears to have some tension with her former bestie, Lesa, 35.

'Lesa, somebody stole your best friend, babe,' one castmate says as Ayan and Caroline seemingly get closer together.

The duo are seen enjoying each other's company and laughing it up together on more than one occasion.

One dramatic scene from the teaser shows Caroline and Sergio at a fertility clinic speaking with a specialist

Afterwards Caroline asks Sergio if not having a child would be a 'deal-breaker' for him, to which he replies, 'I want a baby'

However, Stanbury's daughter, Yasmine, 16, doesn't seem thrilled at the idea. During a dinner with her mom she tears up as she tells her, 'It's all about pleasing Sergio, that's what really upsets me'

The trailer starts out with Ayan, 45, announcing 'Dubai is hot. But I come in hotter'

Ayan also appears to have some tension with her former bestie, Lesa Milan, 35, as she grows close to Caroline

The duo are seen enjoying each other's company and laughing it up together on more than one occasion

'Lesa, somebody stole your best friend, babe,' one castmate tells Lesa

'Ayan's jumping on the Stanwagon,' Lesa replies. 'The only wagons I ride are G [wagons]'

The tension erupts at a party where Chanel tells Milan, 'You're trying to come between me and Stanbury now, that's what you're doing. My friendship with you is over'

'This show is not worth it for me,' Milan says, as Ayan storms off in tears

Another scene shows tension between the ladies at dinner. Sara and Caroline tell each other to 'shut up'

The show will also see the arrival of new Housewife Taleen Marie, who fills a spot of former housewife Nina Ali

'Taleen is a free spirit,' Brooks says about the star. Meanwhile Taleen says of herself: 'I can get a little assy. But, most of the time, I'm classy'

Sara's new boyfriend from Germany also makes his appearance on the show and is branded 'so hot' by Brooks

In one scene Sara's son Maktoum asks her boyfriend during dinner, 'When are you going to be my dad or stepdad'

Sara is mortified by the question, and later in a solo interview says, 'I wish the floor just opened and swallowed me right there'

Meanwhile Marie's husband is seen getting into a heated fight with Brooks in the teaser

'Ayan's jumping on the Stanwagon,' Lesa replies. 'The only wagons I ride are G [wagons].'

In another scene Milan says, 'A snake will always change their skin, but they'll always be a snake,' as Caroline replies, 'I feel the same about you, darling.'

The tension erupts at a party where Chanel tells Milan, 'You're trying to come between me and Stanbury now, that's what you're doing. My friendship with you is over.'

'This show is not worth it for me,' Milan says, as Ayan storms off in tears.

Another scene shows tension between the ladies at dinner. Chanel tells someone, 'Say how you feel to somebody's face.'

Meanwhile Sara and Caroline tell each other to 'shut up.'

Viewers are also introduced to new cast member, Taleen.

'Taleen is a free spirit,' Brooks says about the star.

Meanwhile Taleen says of herself: 'I can get a little assy. But, most of the time, I'm classy.'

She also ends the teaser with a hilarious quote, as she tells the ladies at dinner: 'This was the straw that broke the camel's back. And there's a lot of camels in Dubai.'

The Real Housewives of Dubai season 2 premieres on Sunday, June 2, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo

Sara's new boyfriend from Germany also makes his appearance on the show and is branded 'so hot' by Brooks.

Meanwhile Marie's husband is seen getting into a heated fight with Brooks in the teaser.

'This year the women must balance new dynamics in the group, their demanding family lives and their ever-growing successful businesses,' Bravo said in a release.

'When alliances shift, the ladies question their loyalty to each other as some friendships are left in the desert dust.'

The Real Housewives of Dubai season 2 premieres on Sunday, June 2, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo.

The series will move to its regular timeslot of Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT, with episodes streaming next day on Peacock.
Lucy Hale has revealed what her current equation is with her old co-stars on Pretty Little Liars, the show that made her a star.

The 34-year-old shot to fame on the smash hit teen drama alongside Troian Bellisario, Ashley Benson, Shay Mitchell and Sasha Pieterse.

Pretty Little Liars ran from 2010 until 2017, first on ABC Family and then on Freeform, and acquired a devoted fanbase in the process.

Now, more than half a decade after the series finale aired, Lucy has disclosed whether she maintained a rapport with her castmates.

'From the OG version, I talk to all of them. At different points in our lives, we've intersected and reconnected, but we all keep in touch,' she told E! News.

Lucy Hale has revealed what her current equation is with her old co-stars on Pretty Little Liars, the show that made her a star; pictured this Tuesday

Lucy (center) shot to fame on the smash hit teen drama alongside (from left) Troian Bellisario, Ashley Benson, Shay Mitchell and Sasha Pieterse; pictured in 2016

Specifically, Lucy divulged that she recently enjoyed a meet-up with Ashley shortly before the latter delivered her firstborn child.

Ashley welcomed a bouncing baby in February with her husband Brandon Davis, an oil heir and notorious Hollywood bad boy.

'I ran into her a couple months ago, and she looked and felt better than ever, and I'm just happy,' said Lucy, recalling that Ashley 'always talked about wanting kids. It makes the most sense. I'm so happy for her.'

Of her general bond with her co-stars, she pointed out: 'We spent so much of our lives on that show. and it kickstarted all of our careers.'

She harbors 'so much gratitude' and 'so much love' for her time on the show with the other actresses, and enjoys seeing them 'entering these new chapters of their lives.'

Although the original series has drawn to a close, the franchise has soldiered on and now has a spin-off called Pretty Little Liars: Summer School on Max.

Summer School boasts a whole new cast, sprinkled with up-and-coming actresses such as Bailee Madison, Maia Reficco, Chandler Kinney and Zaria.

But it has now been suggested that Lucy, one of the top stars of the original Pretty Little Lies universe, may lend her luster to the new series.

Pretty Little Liars ran from 2010 until 2017, first on ABC Family and then on Freeform, and acquired a devoted fanbase in the process; pictured 2016

Ashley welcomed a bouncing baby in February with her husband Brandon Davis, an oil heir and notorious Hollywood bad boy; the couple are pictured last October during Ashley's pregnancy

A publicity still for Summer School was posted to its Instagram page, as well as the Max Instagram page, with the caption: 'It's gonna be A killer summer.'

The letter A was not only capitalized but also highlighted in a red box, in an obvious reference to the mystery villain A from the original series.

A is a stalker who spends the original show sending anonymous letters to the Liars, a group of schoolgirls in the posh fictional town of Rosewood, Pennsylvania.

Lucy, who played the sensitive and artsy Aria Montgomery on the original show, wrote in the comments: 'Kinda making me want to go back to school?'
Lottie Moss showcased her friendship with Arabella Chi as the two headed home after attending the one year anniversary of PrettyLittleThing's London showroom on Thursday evening.

The model, 26, looked a little tired after the night of celebrating as she held hands with the Love Island star.

The star, who is the sister of Kate Moss, flashed plenty of skin as she opted for a pretty bra top with a plunging neckline.

She teamed the piece with a matching semi-sheer skirt and boosted her height with white stiletto heels.

Meanwhile Arabella put on a very leggy display as she wowed in a little white silk dress and baggy white leather boots.

Lottie Moss and Arabella Chi looked effortlessly stylish in a sheer white co-ord as she left the the one year anniversary of PrettyLittleThing's London showroom on Thursday evening

The model, 26, looked a little tired after the night of celebrating as she flashed plenty of skin in a pretty bra top with a plunging neckline

She completed her look with a beige blazer jacket and a tiny sparkly handbag.

The Love Island stars were out in their masses, as the pair were also joined by Demi Jones, Hannah Elizabeth and Ella Barnes for the evening.

Demi opted for a little black halterneck dress, before turning around to reveal the PrettyLittleThing printed across her bottom in white.

She completed the look with some black strappy heels and a little black handbag, while her brunette locks were tied up in a high ponytail.

Meanwhile Ella, who recently joined the cast of TOWIE, kept it casual in a faded denim co-ord with a black crop top.

Hannah Elizabeth showed off her enviable curves in a teal figure-hugging long-sleeve jumpsuit, as she styled her blonde locks in voluminous curls.

Made In Chelsea star Liv Bentley flaunted her slender legs in a very short black plunging playsuit with white edging.

She paired the look with some simple white heels and an oversized blazer which she hung over her shoulders.

She teamed the piece with a matching semi-sheer skirt and boosted her height with white stiletto heels

The star showed off her collection of tiny tattoos in the two-piece

Arabella was all smiles as she left the bash linking arms with Lottie

Arabella put on a very leggy display as she wowed in a little white silk dress and baggy white leather boots

She completed her look with a beige blazer jacket and a tiny sparkly handbag

Demi Jones opted for a little black halterneck dress

Ella Barnes, who recently joined the cast of TOWIE, kept it casual in a faded denim co-ord with a black crop top

Elsewhere Georgia Steel opted for a black faded denim shirt and matching jeans as she smiled in snaps after her recent break up from Love Island flame Toby Aromolaran.

The couple, who finished fourth place in the final, have called time on their whirlwind romance just one month since they departed the villa together.

It was Toby who called it quits on the pair's romance, which came as a complete shock to Georgia.

Abi Moore made sure to flash plenty of skin as she displayed her toned abs in a nude and black floral wrap dress.

The TOWIE crew were also out in force as they posed for snaps together.

Amber Turner cut a sophisticated look in a nude blazer and matching pleated skirt.

Putting on a leggy display in the ensemble, she tied the outfit together with a black crop top, belt and some knee high black leather boots.

Dani Imbert showcased her ample cleavage in a white bodycon strapless dress as she was joined by Junaid who added a pop of colour in a pale pink jumper.

Amber Turner cut a sophisticated look in a nude blazer and matching pleated skirt

Hannah Elizabeth showed off her enviable curves in a teal figure-hugging long-sleeve jumpsuit, as she styled her blonde locks in voluminous curls

Made In Chelsea star Liv Bentley flaunted her slender legs in a very short black plunging playsuit with white edging

Georgia Steel opted for a black faded denim shirt and matching jeans as she smiled in snaps after her recent break up from Love Island flame Toby Aromolaran

Twins Jess and Eve Gale also left the party together as they each showed off their surgically enhanced assets in their skimpy tops

The TOWIE crew were also out in force as they posed for snaps together

Abi Moore made sure to flash plenty of skin as she displayed her toned abs in a nude and black floral wrap dress

Twins Jess and Eve Gale also left the party together as they each showed off their surgically enhanced assets in their skimpy tops.

Jess opted for a cream cropped vest top which she paired with a barely-there sheer print skirt.

Holding hands with her sister, Eve donned a black pin-striped co-ord, after recently revealing her surprise new romance with Demi Sims.

Eve revealed that she and Demi had a flirty friendship for years but have now enjoyed their first date together and are getting on like a house on fire.

A source has told OK!: 'Eve and Demi's date may have come as a surprise, but they've been texting a lot behind the scenes. They quickly realised just how much they liked one another and the attraction took off from there.

'It all started as a friendship and it's allowed them to grow naturally. They know each other well and are always giggling and laughing. Everyone around them is pleased to see them happy.'

Demi was joined by her sister Frankie for the evening, as she turned heads in a Louis Vuitton denim ensemble.

Meanwhile Frankie opted for a green gradient satin two piece.

The Love Island boys were looking dapper for the night as Antony Danyluk kept it stylish in a khaki green suit and open white shirt.

Chris and Mitch Taylor were also seen attending the event, as they reunited with their former flames from the show.

Frankie and Demi Sims turned heads in their quirky outfits

The Love Island boys were looking dapper for the night as Antony Danyluk kept it stylish in a khaki green suit and open white shirt

Chris and Mitch Taylor were also seen attending the event, as they reunited with their former flames from the show

Anna Maynard looked chic in a black waistcoat top and low-waisted jeans
South Korea, the United States and Japan have held naval drills involving a U.S. aircraft carrier to improve their joint operability against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, the South's Navy said.

The trilateral naval drill took place in international waters south of Jeju Island on Thursday and Friday, involving six warships of the nations.

The U.S. Navy sent a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), and three Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, which were joined by two Aegis destroyers from South Korea and Japan.

"The exercise was focused on bolstering the three nations' joint response capabilities amid North Korea's rising nuclear and missiles," the Navy said in a release.

It is the latest in a series of joint drills held after Washington and its Asian allies agreed to regularize trilateral exercises to deter rising security threats during their Camp David summit in August 2023.

The participating forces conducted anti-submarine warfare training to enhance their capabilities to counter threats posed by North Korea's submarines and submarine-launched ballistic missiles, the Navy said.

They also carried out maritime interdiction exercises to prevent the illicit transportation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), and search and rescue training to practice procedures for rescuing distressed vessels.

"This training provided a great opportunity to enhance the capabilities of the three participating countries to respond to North Korea's evolving nuclear and WMD threats and to improve humanitarian assistance capabilities for distressed vessels," Capt. Baek Jun-cheol of the Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong destroyer said.

Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander, commander of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, said the trilateral drill provided an opportunity to work together to better prepare for any crisis or contingency in the region.

"This is an opportunity for us to work with our allies in the region. It is an opportunity for us to improve our tactical proficiency," Alexander told a group of reporters from South Korea, the U.S. and Japan. (Yonhap)
Former reality star Jordan Finlayson appeared in a Sydney court on Friday for sentencing after pleading guilty to four charges of falsifying medical certificates while on bail.

But her legal representative at Downing Street Centre Local Court argued for the charges against the 32-year-old to be dismissed on mental health grounds.

Finlayson, known for her appearance on the 2011 season of Beauty and the Geek before a meth-fuelled fall from grace, was convicted late last year of driving while on drugs.

Magistrate Brett Shields adjourned the former professional dancer's matter until late May and continued her bail.

It comes after Finlayson was required to report to police three times a week as a condition of her bail.

Former reality star Jordan Finlayson appeared at Sydney's Downing Street Centre Local Court on Friday for sentencing after pleading guilty to four charges of falsifying medical certificates while on bail. Pictured: Finlayson outside court

Yet the former NRL cheerleader produced fake medical certificates from multiple doctors in order to avoid attending the police station.

On Friday, she wore a silky black blouse and pants with towering beige heels as she fronted court to be sentenced for falsifying the documents.

However, her lawyer Ben Wilcox told the court that he would be applying for the charges to be dismissed on mental health grounds.

Finlayson's legal representatives argued for the charges against the 32-year-old to be dismissed on mental health grounds

He asked for an adjournment to allow him to obtain the supporting documentation to allow the application to proceed.

Wilcox said Finlayson had been 'quite overwhelmed with the costs' of attending a psychologist to obtain a mental health report required for the move to dismiss the charges.

She would attend her usual doctor within the next few weeks to obtain a medical report, he informed the court.

Finlayson, known for her appearance on the 2011 season of Beauty and the Geek before a meth-fuelled fall from grace, was convicted late last year of driving while on drugs

Magistrate Brett Shields adjourned the former professional dancer's matter until late May and continued her bail.

On at least four occasions, the agreed facts show she presented police with certificates stating she was unfit to attend the station on the days she was required to report to police.

The documents were accepted as legitimate until police raided Finlayson's hotel room months later and found multiple certificates on phones.

Police were subsequently granted digital access to her phone to determine the authenticity of the certificates.

The former NRL cheerleader was required to report to police three times a week

However, the former Penthouse model provided erroneous access codes after claiming she couldn't remember the PIN.

After Finlayson finally provided the right code, detectives found multiple certificates on the phone in different fonts.

Doctors and staff who were named on the documents confirmed they had only provided certificates for some of Finlayson's absences.
Netflix viewers have gone into meltdown after discovering a new thriller based on a true and terrifying stalking tale.

Scottish comedian Richard Gadd retells the traumatic experience of being stalked for years in the tense mini-series - Baby Reindeer.

After offering a woman a free cup of tea at the pub where he pulled pints, Gadd was flooded with 40,000 emails, 740 tweets and a staggering 350 worth of voicemails as well as hundreds of letters, in a harassment case that spanned over five years.

Despite telling police, there was unfortunately not much they could do because the unwelcome communication was not 'obviously' threatening.

Using his trauma, Gadd created a play called Baby Reindeer - a nickname his stalker had given him which has now been transformed into the haunting Netflix series.

Scottish comedian Richard Gadd has transformed his own terrifying stalking experience into a new haunting mini series on Netflix called Baby Reindeer (Richard Gadd as Donny, pictured)

Martha, who is based on Gadd's stalker, becomes enthralled with actor-writer Donny after he offers her a free cup of tea at the pub where he works (Jessica Gunning as Martha, pictured)

Reframing his own dreadful experience, the hair-raising show centres around the life of comedian hopeful Donny (Richard Gadd) who is being harassed by Martha (Jessica Gunning).

Mirroring Gadd's tale, Martha becomes obsessed with the actor-writer after he gives her a free cup of tea in the boozer.

Initially Donny appreciated the attention from Martha - and even sometimes flirted back.

However as the stalker begins to cross boundaries as we see their friendly encounter turn into a terrifying tale, unearthing Donny's past trauma of sexual abuse.

'Stalking on television tends to be very sexed-up,' Gadd told Netflix.

'It has a mystique. It's somebody in a dark alley way. It's somebody who's really sexy, who's very normal, but then they go strange bit by bit.

'But stalking is a mental illness. I really wanted to show the layers of stalking with a human quality I hadn't seen on television before.'

The real-life Martha is now required by law not to approach Gadd or any of his friends or family.

Netflix fans have been blown away by how the Scottish comedian has managed to retell his trauma in the harrowing story, with several labelling it a 'masterpiece'.

Although their encounter initially begins as a friendly chat, Martha crosses several boundaries unearthing Donny's past trauma

The title of the haunting mini-series based on Gadd's true story comes from the nickname his own stalker gave the actor

Netflix fans have flooded social media timelines with rave reviews about the gripping mini-series, branding it as 'utterly gripping'

'Baby Reindeer is insane but the fact that 1) it's a true story 2) the main actor is the actual victim of the true story in real life makes it that much CRAZIER.'

'Binged all of Baby Reindeer on Netflix yesterday and it's just completely incredible.

'Goes from funny, weird & creepy, all the way to being genuinely harrowing. not an easy watch but feels like a really important one.'

'My Goodness #BabyReindeer on Netflix is bleak but brilliant. Black humour and so much more than a stalking story.

'A powerful study into trauma, abuse & mental health. Incredible writing, performances & production. Not an easy watch at times but utterly gripping.'

'An honour to have been across the mix of Baby Reindeer, its a true masterpiece.'

'Richard Gadd is brilliant in Baby Reindeer! If you haven't seen it on Netflix you have too!!!! It's absolutely mind blowing!'

Wow 'Baby Reindeer' is one of the most powerful shows I've ever watched and to know it's true is just heartbreaking. So glad he told his story 

'Baby Reindeer on Netflix..one of the best things I've seen in a while. Highly recommend.'

'Baby reindeer was a 10/10 had me crying so hard.'

Gadd said: 'Stalking is a mental illness. I really wanted to show the layers of stalking with a human quality I hadn't seen on television before'
Amber Turner proved she's fighting fit as she flashed her toned abs at a PrettyLittleThing event.

The 30-year-old reality star, who previously appeared on Channel 4s SAS, celebrated the one year anniversary of the fashion giant's showroom in London Thursday.

Amber was glowing as she donned a tiny beige mini skirt, crop top and blazer.

The reality star wasn't afraid to show some skin in the racy ensemble which included her high-definition abs.

The Only Way Is Essex star showed she hasn't let her fitness take a tumble since competing in SAS last year.

Amber Turner flashed her toned abs in a skimpy mini skirt and crop top whilst attending a PrettyLittleThing bash held at their London showroom on Thursday

The 30-year-old reality star, who previously appeared on Channel 4s SAS, celebrated the one year anniversary of the fashion giant's showroom

Posing for cameras at the fashion party, Amber went for a night time glam look with her makeup, whilst adding a subtle curl to her ash blonde hair.

She kept things chic and elegant by wearing a tiny gold necklace chain around her neck and small studs in her ears.

Amber also accesorised with knee high leather look boots and a black designer bag.

PrettyLittleThing's birthday party featured DJ set from Jack Fowler and performances by Mutya Buena from Sugababes and Yung Filly.

The Essex bombshell took to her Instagram to share updates from the party to her 878k followers.

She modelled for some selfies in the mirror so her fans could have an insight into what she was up to at the party.

Other stars including Kate Moss's sister Lottie attended the showbiz bash.

And Love Island stars Arabella Chi, Demi Jones, Hannah Elizabeth and Ella Barnes were also there to party the night away.

Amber kept things chic by wearing a tiny gold necklace chain around her neck and small studs in her ears

Amber turned the pavement into her own personal catwalk as she sashayed out of the star-studded bash after an evening of partying

Amber was previously dating Dan Edgar, who is one of Towie's cast members after he joined in 2015 (pictured in 2022)

Love Island stars Arabella Chi (pictured) Demi Jones, Hannah Elizabeth and Ella Barnes were also there to party the night away

Kate Moss's sister Lottie attended the showbiz bash dressed in a white crop top that flashed her abs and a matching tiered skirt

Amber was previously dating Dan Edgar, who is one of TOWIE's cast members after he joined in 2015.

But the pair split last year after being together for six years, and since then Dan has been dating Ella Rae Wise.

As the reality show started again last month, Amber told her Dan, 33, to 'feel free' to 'crack on with her' if it makes him happy.

The pair were arguing about their 'shared' pet pooch, Oliver.

Both Amber and Dan have been moving on from their split.
She has made a career out of shocking the nation with her outlandish, nearly naked outfits.

Yet Julia Fox, 45, pushed the boundaries of fashion to a new level as she sported her wildest look to date during an Los Angeles outing on Thursday.

Giving Kanye West's wife Bianca Censori a run for her money with the wacky look, the rapper's ex-girlfriend bared all at a glance in a nude print bikini.

Julia's bikini top featured a print of bare nipples surrounded by a mane of hair.

But it was the blonde beauty's bottoms that were the striking piece of her look as she wore a pair of briefs replicating a vulva that had been stitched shut with the phrase 'closed' across the top.

Julia Fox, 45, pushed the boundaries of fashion to a new level as she sported her wildest look to date during an Los Angeles outing on Thursday

Julia has made a career out of shocking the nation with her outlandish, nearly naked outfits.

Adding inches to her figure, the fashion veteran paired her two-piece with a pair of nude Jean Paul Gaultier toe-pointed stilettos.

The ensemble was accessorised with an off-the-shoulder blazer that featured a white cotton tulip trail.

She finished off her bold statement with a mini black leather biker handbag.

Julia kept her makeup neutral as she stepped out, wearing a nude lip, light grey eyeshadow and rouge cheeks.

Her latest look competes closely with some of those worn by another fashion sex symbol - her love rival Bianca.

Kanye's wife has been skyrocketed to fame after months of parading around America in minimal clothing.

And while she has caught the eye of many body-positive fashion enthusiasts, she now has some competition.

Kanye West's ex-girlfriend Julia was giving his wife Bianca Censori (right) a run for her money

Julia's bikini top featured a print of bare nipples surrounded by a mane of hair

But it was the blonde beauty's bottoms that were the striking piece of her look as she wore a pair of briefs replicating a vulva that had been stitched shut with the phrase 'closed'

Adding inches to her figure, the fashion veteran paired her two-piece with a pair of nude Jean Paul Gaultier toe-pointed stilettos

The ensemble was accessorised with an off-the-shoulder blazer that featured a white cotton tulip trail

She finished off her bold statement with a mini black leather biker handbag

Bianca has worn equally revealing outfits in recent months, and she stepped out in February in nothing but a see-through raincoat.

The 29-year-old Australian architect wore absolutely nothing beneath her cagoule, going utterly naked bar a pair of knee-high black boots.

Branding across the front of the coat helped shield her ample chest, yet she was forced to place her hand over her groin to protect her modesty.

Her other hand was firmly grasped by husband Kanye, who also appeared to be taking no chances with the Pineapple Express storm pummelling the West Coast.

He wore an oversized khaki poncho and black rain boots.

Sartorially out of sync with his wife, the 46-year-old rapper was as covered up as possible, layering a black top and joggers under his coat and thick leather gloves.

He completed the look with a black face mask featuring a leather panel slapped across the middle.

But their weird and wonderful fashion statements are not the only thing Julia and Bianca have in common.

Julia used to date Bianca's 'husband' Kanye.

Julia's latest look competed closely with some of those worn by another fashion sex symbol - her love rival Bianca.

Bianca has worn equality revealing outfits in recent months, as she stepped out in February in nothing but a see-through raincoat

However, their relationship did not flourish like Bianca's, as Julia admitted that she broke up with the rapper because being with him 'just wasnt sustainable.'

The Italian-born actress met Kanye on New Year's Eve in 2021 at a surprise performance in Miami and was launched to fame as his new love interest. However, just six weeks later, she announced their split on Valentine's Day.

'I tried my best to make it work,' she told the New York Times. 'I already had a jam-packed life. How do I fit this really big personality into this already full life? It just wasnt sustainable. I lost like 15 pounds in that month.'

She described her time with him as 'a crash course on how to be famous.'

When asked if their relationship was a publicity stunt, she noted 'there were definitely elements of it that were real.'

'It definitely felt like I was his girlfriend. But it also felt like I was being cast in the role of his girlfriend  and he was casting me,' she elaborated. 'He was the orchestrator of it all. It really did feel like a movie.'

The Uncut Gems star said she didn't think they were exclusive but dismissed the rumour that she had been interviewed to be his girlfriend, calling it 'ridiculous.' She also denied signing a nondisclosure agreement.
Georgia Steel risked an awkward run-in with her estranged Love Island: All Stars co-stars as they all attended a PrettyLittleThing bash in London on Thursday night.

The star, 26, who is newly-single after her split from Toby Aromolaran, has been open about the fact she is not in communication with the rest of the cast.

Luckily, Georgia had best friend Cally Jane Beech with her to ease the tension and the two stuck close together at the event which also saw Jess and Eve Gale and Demi Jones attend.

A fan on Snapchat asked Georgia this week: 'Do you not go out with or see the rest of the Love Island girls? I see on their snaps that they all go out quite frequently together but you are never with them' and ended her question with two sad emojis.

Georgia replied: 'I wasn't invited x'

Georgia Steel, 26, risked an awkward run-in with her estranged Love Island: All Stars co-stars as they all attended a PrettyLittleThing bash on Thursday night

The star has been open about the fact she is not in communication with the rest of the cast (pictured L-R: Demi Jones, Eve Gale, and Jess Gale)

Luckily, Georgia had best friend Cally Jane Beech with her to ease the tension and the two stuck close together

But Georgia brushed it off as she put on a stylish display in a double denim look, while twins Jess and Eve showed off their surgically enhanced assets in their skimpy tops.

Also attending from the All Stars season was Hannah Elizabeth who showed off her curves in a teal figure-hugging long-sleeve jumpsuit.

It comes after several of Georgia's previous villa mates reunited for a dinner and Georgia why she was not present.

Jessica, Arabella Chi, Molly Smith, Joanna Chimonides, and Kaz Kamwi all enjoyed dinner at Midnight Mass.

Georgia was also absent when seemingly every Love Island star past and present arrived at Molly's Manchester bash to celebrate her new Boohoo collab.

It does not come as a surprise that the group do not get on as Georgia fell out with them during Love Island.

The fourth-placed finalist took exception to the other Islanders' votes for herself and and Toby as the biggest game players.

The couple had a rocky road on the show, coupling up initially before having an almighty falling out.

But Georgia brushed it off as she put on a stylish display in a short-sleeved black double denim look

The Love island star teamed the outfit with a Van Cleef necklace and bracelet and a designer shoulder bag

Twins Jess and Eve Gale also left the party together as they each showed off their surgically enhanced assets in their skimpy tops

Demi Jones opted for a very little black halterneck dress which she paired with black heeled sandals and a chic black handbag

The duo starred in the Love Island All Stars series alongside Georgia, but weren't pictured together inside the party

Hannah Elizabeth showed off her enviable curves in a teal figure-hugging long-sleeve jumpsuit, as she styled her blonde locks in voluminous curls

A fan on Snapchat asked Georgia why she is never seen with the Love Island girls - and she had a three-word reply

Toby moved on with Arabella, and Georgia with eventual winner Molly's ex Callum Jones.

Toby quickly left Arabella to return to Georgia, a decision which rocked the villa and left Arabella in floods of tears.

Meanwhile, Georgia's readiness to accept Toby back annoyed fans who accused Georgia of cruelly playing with Callum's emotions.

She also vied for eventual winner Tom Clare's affections before reuniting with Toby.

After making it to the final, Georgia and Toby split a month later.

Taking to Instagram to confirm the split, Georgia wrote: 'After seeing the reports regarding my relationship with Toby I feel it's only right for me to be transparent and truthful with you all.

Georgia added: 'It is true Toby has called things off. It has taken me by complete surprise and I'm still trying to process it and come to terms with it all.

'They say some people are in your life for a lifetime and some just for a chapter.'

It comes after a source told The Sun: 'It's true they have split. Toby was the one who called it a day and it came completely out of the blue for Georgia.

'She feels completely blindsided and gutted. She thought things were going really well for them, so it's been a real blow.'

Georgia branded herself 'Britain's Most Hated Woman' and admitted she was scared to leave the house following her time in the All Stars villa - as she returned from her brief social media break.

It came after MailOnline revealed that trolls had targeted her with 'vile death threats and nasty messages'.

After her actions were exposed to her castmates at the 'PDA Awards' - a new take on the show's ever-eventful Movie Night - Georgia revealed her social media was ablaze with trolling, mostly from women, which left her feeling 'hated'.

Georgia first fell out with the group when she took exception to the other Islanders' votes for herself and and Toby, who eventually came fourth, as the biggest game players

The couple coupled up initially before having an almighty falling out. Toby moved on with Arabella, and Georgia with eventual winner Molly's ex Callum Jones

Toby quickly left Arabella to return to Georgia, a decision which rocked the villa and left Arabella in floods of tears, and Georgia's readiness to accept him evoked sympathy for Callum
It's the show where contestants go to seek lasting love.

And now a recent applicant to Nine's Married at First Sight has expressed dismay over being asked about their weight while applying to the social experiment.

The female applicant revealed that would-be grooms and brides are also asked to give their height on the show's questionnaire.

The comments were made by Alix Nicholson, a writer, who complained that the questions did not seem to be an 'integral part for any quest for true love'.

'Unless my match is based on my BMI which, honestly? Might just be how they work these matches out' Nicholson wrote on on the Mamma Mia website.

It's the show where contestants go to seek lasting love. And now a recent applicant to Nine's Married at First Sight has expressed dismay over being asked about their weight while applying to the social experiment. A scene from MAFS is pictured

'Because clearly matching personalities, values and consideration for what contestants are looking for aren't always on the agenda'.

She added that other questions for contestants on the application form asked would be MAFS stars about their 'relationship with their parents'.

Also asked was 'what they are looking for in a partner' and 'what qualities you don't like in people'.

Another questions asked included details about hobbies, passion and interests and how the applicant spends 'their typical Saturday night'.

The female applicant also revealed that would-be grooms and brides are also asked about other personal details on the show's questionnaire including their height. Pictured: A scene from season 11 of Married at First Sight

She added: 'The producers are also dying to know whether I've ever been convicted of a crime, ever been declared bankrupt, ever been subject to any disciplinary proceedings.'

Earlier this year, a woman shared a behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous audition process for the 2024 season of Married at First Sight Australia.

Social media star @juliasingsmyths2, who almost made her television debut as one of the brides, spoke about her wild experience applying for the hit Channel Nine show in a TikTok video.

According to Julia, the application she filled out one February night was extensive - peppered with a plethora of questions about STIs and criminal background checks.

The comments were made by Alix Nicholson, a writer, who wrote on the Mamma Mia website that the questions did not seem to be an 'integral part for any quest for true love'

Applicants were required to undergo comprehensive police checks, citizenship tests and a full medical exam to ensure they were both mentally and physically fit for the show.

'One thing that shocked me, but probably shouldn't have shocked me, was that I was required to do every single STI check, including blood,' she explained, adding the only thing she learned from these tests was her low iron levels.

'With this medical exam, you actually had to do a bunch of mobility tests as well, the funniest one was you had to go and do what's called a duck walk, where you crouch down and kind of like walk.'
Sam Worthington and his wife Lara Worthington looked more smitten than ever as they strolled around New York City laughing together on Thursday.

The Australian actor and the model shared a joke as they ran errands after returning to their adopted American home following a trip to Australia.

Lara, 36, arrived by taxi after spending time browsing around the upmarket shopping district of 5th Avenue.

Sam, 47, tried to take her by surprise as he was stood waiting for her to arrive with his hoodie pulled up.

The pair then strolled around their neighborhood going to a sandwich shop before going to a FedEx store to pick up a package.

Sam Worthington and his wife Lara Worthington looked more smitten than ever as they strolled around New York City laughing together on Thursday. Pictured

The Australian actor and the model shared a joke as they ran errands after returning to their adopted American home following a trip to Australia

Lara and Sam Worthington made a surprise appearance in Pines Park, Sydney on last week as they watched the round five NRL match between the Manly Sea Eagles and Penrith Panthers during a brief visit Down Under

The blonde dressed casually in a red hoodie and a pair of blue jeans as well as wool slides.

Sam meanwhile also opted for a black hoodie and loose slacks as well as a camouflage cap.

Lara and Sam Worthington made a surprise appearance in Pines Park, Sydney on last week as they watched the round five NRL match between the Manly Sea Eagles and Penrith Panthers during a brief visit to Australia.

It comes after Lara revealed how she and Sam husband are a 'team' and always work together to keep their family a well-oiled machine.

The model told Stellar magazine in October of 2022 that the pair, who met in 2013 and married a year later, are enjoying getting older together.

Lara, 36, arrived by taxi after spending time browsing around the upmarket shopping district of 5th Avenue

Sam, 47, tried to take her by surprise as he was stood waiting for her to arrive with his hoodie pulled up

The pair then strolled around their neighborhood going to a sandwich shop

They also popped to a FedEx store to pick up a package

Lara shares three sons - Rocket, seven, Racer, six, and River, two - with Sam

'As a family unit, we're all very close. We've only got each other. Sam and I are a good team,' she said.

'We're both Australians and we have the same values. We come at our children as a team and I think that's really important.'

The beauty said that Sam is a 'a strong father figure' who supports her in her creative pursuits.

'The fact my husband allows me to be creative and have dreams and aspirations  that's really important,' Lara said.

Lara shares three sons - Rocket, seven, Racer, six, and River, two - with Sam.
Lewis Hamilton showed off his unique sense of style as he went shirtless underneath a long pinstripe Dior coat at the GQ Global Creativity Awards in New York on Thursday.

The Formula One driver, 39, rocked the piece from the 2024 Fall/ Winter collection as he attended the event held to celebrate the 'world's most fearless and inspiring creatives'.

Lewis teamed the look with a diamond chain which highlighted the silver beaded detailing on the coat's waist and black trousers.

He appeared in his element as he posed on the purple carpet before taking to the stage later in the evening where he accepted an award.

It comes after the Formula 1 ace admitted this week he was offered a role in the Hollywood star's 2022 blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick.

Lewis Hamilton showed off his unique sense of style as he went shirtless underneath a long pinstripe Dior coat at the GQ Global Creativity Awards in New York on Thursday

The Formula One driver, 39, rocked the piece from the 2024 Fall/ Winter collection as he attended the event held to celebrate the 'world's most fearless and inspiring creatives'

He appeared in his element as he posed on the purple carpet

A sequel to the legendary 1986 film starring Tom as Naval Aviator Lieutenant Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, the film grossed $1.496 billion worldwide and is widely credited for pulling Hollywood out of the financial hole created by COVID-19 and the global pandemic.

But Lewis missed an opportunity after conflicting schedules resulted in the Mercedes driver turning down a cameo role.

Speaking to GQ, he admitted to begging for a role in the film years before principal photography began, when the prospect of a potential sequel was first mooted by Cruise.

'I said, "Dude, if you ever do Top Gun 2, I will even be a janitor. Just let me be in it,"' he recalled.

Despite Hamilton's limited acting ability, good-natured Cruise introduced him to the film's director, Joseph Kosinski, but the driver soon realised he couldn't commit to a role.

'Firstly, I hadnt even had, like, an acting lesson,' he said. 'And I dont want to be the one that lets this movie down.

'And then secondly, I just really didnt have the time to dedicate to it. I remember having to tell Joe and Tom  and it broke my heart.'

He added: 'And then I regretted it, naturally, when they show me the movie and its: "It couldve been me!"'

Lewis appeared in his element as he posed on the purple carpet before taking to the stage later in the evening where he accepted an award

He posed for a photo with Hunter Schafer before the sit down dinner

It comes after the Formula 1 ace admitted this week he was offered a role in the Hollywood star's 2022 blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick

Lewis struggled during the race and had to let team-mate George Russell through

Lewis' admission comes after he stormed out of an interview in the paddock following his ninth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix.

The seven-time world champion's struggles continued as he picked up just two points, as his worst ever start to a Formula One season continued.

Mercedes opted for a bold tyre strategy following the early red flag from Alex Albon and Daniel Ricciardo's crash, as both Hamilton and George Russell attempted a one-stop strategy after the restart.

They switched back to two-stops after Hamilton sharply insisted over the team radio: 'Change the strategy.'

After the race, a reporter asked if he was jealous of Ferrari - the team he will drive for next year - after they finished third and fourth with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.
The TOWIE cast have just returned from Bali after a drama filled few weeks among the palm trees.

And as the series returns to Essex, the latest instalment promises scandalous feuds, unexpected romance and even more drama.

This series marks a special one, as original cast member Lauren Goodger has returned, marking her first appearance on the show since her departure in 2016.

Looking rather different to her first appearance on the show back in 2010, Lauren is by no means the only TOWIE star partial to a dramatic cosmetic tweakment or plastic surgery procedure.

And as fans get stuck into the new series, MailOnline takes a look at the TOWIE's best transformations, as we explore their evolving looks and obsessions with injectables.

Lauren Goodger

 Slide me  As Lauren rejoins the cast she has always been candid about the many enhancements she has undergone from lip filler to a BBL (pictured left in 2010, right in 2024)

Lauren Goodger has rejoined the TOWIE cast, after finding fame on the show as one of the original cast members part of the 2010 line up.

Over the years the star, 37, has been in and out of the series after she left the show in 2012 following her break up from long-term partner Mark Wright, who is now married to Michelle Keegan.

She returned for a brief appearance in 2016, however last year it was reported that Lauren would be rejoining the show after deciding it was the right time for her to return to the spotlight.

Revealing how it feels being back on the programme, Lauren told MailOnline: 'It's like I never left! It's different this time round obviously because I'm a mum but it's like learning how to drive, you never forget once you're back in the driving seat!

Lauren has always been candid about the many enhancements she has undergone, after previously admitting to a rhinoplasty in 2011 to fix her broken nose following an accident.

She also underwent a breast augmentation surgery, transforming her 34D chest size to 34E in 2013.

Last year, Lauren also admitted she had had a Brazilian bum lift back in 2017, but wanted to get rid of it.

The TV personality explained how she jetted off to Turkey for a BBL and described it as 'the worst experience' of her life.

Last year, Lauren also admitted she had had a Brazilian bum lift back in 2017, but wanted to get rid of it

Meanwhile the star is also no stranger to lip filler. In February 2023 she underwent the same 'butterfly effect' filler technique as Katie Price as she showed off her new pout (pictured February 2023)

Lauren said she was desperate to have a 'natural bum' again but isn't sure how to go about getting it as 'there isn't a procedure that can reverse the BBL'.

She added: 'I'm not sure how I'm going to do that yet. I'm not sure if there is a procedure that can reverse the BBL. I'm looking into potentially getting the fat sucked out, but I don't know if that's an option. I'm going to speak to lots of different surgeons and figure out my options.'

Meanwhile the star is also no stranger to lip filler. In February 2023 she underwent the same 'butterfly effect' filler technique as Katie Price as she showed off her new pout.

She explained at the time: 'I've just had the butterfly effect lip fillers by Lift Aesthetics, I've got the tape on at the minute so I'm talking really weird.

'I'm very swollen but literally a new technique, it's so amazing and I can't wait to see the results.'

Amy Childs

 Slide me  Amy Childs has had two boob jobs, botox, lip fillers, liposuction and veneers, completely transforming her look over the years (pictured left in 2010, right in November 2023)

Amy Childs proudly boasted of her enhanced cleavage when she entered the show after undergoing plastic surgery at the tender age of 18.

The reality star, 33, has had two boob jobs, botox, lip fillers, liposuction and veneers, completely transforming her look over the years.

However, Amy, who now has four children Polly, five, Ritchie, four, and twins Billy and Amelia, 12 months, has now ditched cosmetic surgery after admitting she looked 'like a freak'.

She told The Sun in 2022: 'I have not had cosmetic surgery for a long time now, and, for me, being a mum you totally change the way you look at things.

'Back in the day on TOWIE you ended up getting obsessed with your looks, but now I am 32 this year and in a completely different mindset.

She told The Sun in 2022: 'I have not had cosmetic surgery for a long time now, and, for me, being a mum you totally change the way you look at things' (pictured 2016)

'I am really happy in me now. I haven't got the size 8 body that I used to have, however, I have two lovely children, and that's all I care about, so I am very happy in myself.'

In her teens, Amy boosted her bust by three sizes, going from an A-cup to a D-cup, before jumping to a 30EE for a second boob job at the age of 23.

In May 2019, the mother-of-two underwent an eight-hour operation after experiencing pain in her chest following a rupture in her left implant, and a month later, doctors discovered a lump had formed in her breast tissue from leakage.

The star - who spent a week in hospital during the ordeal - has since downsized her breast implants from an EE cup to a C cup.

Sophie Kasaei

 Slide me  After making her name on the original series of Geordie Shore, Sophie Kasaei joined TOWIE in 2023 after she began dating cast member Jordan Brooks (pictured left in 2012, and right in 2024)

After making her name on the original series of Geordie Shore, Sophie Kasaei joined TOWIE in 2023 after she began dating cast member Jordan Brooks.

The star, 34, has admitted that appearing on the show left her feeling insecure about her appearance and she caved in to surgery after being offered free procedures abroad including a boob job and Brazilian Bum Lift (the second of which she had in a run-down hospital in Turkey).

She also developed an addiction to lip fillers, revealing one time the process went wrong and she was left looking like 'the elephant man.'

In 2022 she underwent a breast reduction to bring her E-cup assets down to a C-cup as well as a a reverse tummy tuck and corrective work to her Brazilian Bum Lift (BBL) procedure.

Last month, Sophie revealed she 'almost died' after undergoing the botched BBL in Turkey when she was 24-years-old.

The star admitted she was promised a 'Kim Kardashian figure', but instead suffered 'agonising' repercussions due to the botched surgery.

The TV personality suffered a life-threatening abscess which led to her having emergency surgery to drain one litre of puss on her left bumcheek.

The star, 34, has admitted that appearing on the show left her feeling insecure about her appearance and she caved in to surgery after being offered free procedures abroad including a boob job and B razilian Bum Lift (pictured: 2011 & 2022)

Last month, Sophie revealed she 'almost died' after undergoing the botched BBL in Turkey when she was 24-years-old

She told her followers: 'After the healing process, six weeks or eight weeks later, I started getting a pain in my left bum cheek and I was in agony.'

Sophie was on holiday in Mexico at the time, and headed straight to hospital where she was put on a drip. 'They were saying they was an abscess in their and if that burst, you would be dead.'

Once back home in Newcastle, she had to go straight to hospital to have the abscess drained.

She explained: 'They drained one litre of puss. It was so traumatic. Getting it packed was the worst pain in the world - I screamed the hospital down.

'It was just hell. I felt ill, I couldn't walk, my whole leg was numb. I couldn't even sit on it. It was just absolute agony.

'Eventually the wound healed but was forming this horrendous scare which was leaving this shark-type scare.'

Amber Turner

 Slide me  Amber Turner is also no stranger to cosmetic procedures after undergoing a boob job, lip filler, veneers and a 3D non-surgical bum lift (pictured left in 2015, right 2024)

Amber Turner is also no stranger to cosmetic procedures after undergoing a boob job, lip filler, veneers and a 3D non-surgical bum lift.

In 2017 Amber boosted her cleavage from a B cup to a D cup, as she branded the surgery 'the best decision of her life'.

Speaking about the procedure, she said: 'Last year I had my boob job and I went from a B to a D and it was the best decision I've ever made in my life.

'I think if there's something you want to change, you shouldn't feel bad about having surgery. It's made me so much more confident and it's made me so much happier.'

However Amber, 30, is also leaving her fake ways behind, after she revealed in 2022 that she now wants to 'look more natural' and now focuses more on protecting herself from wrinkles.

She said: 'I have a few eyelashes in. I don't have much done anymore. I have natural eyelashes. I used to get really thick eyelashes but now that's it. I don't do much.

'I make sure I have sun cream. I am covered in factor 50. I wear it every day on my face. I have a moisturizer which has factor 50 in. Hopefully I am not going to look haggared by age of 30.'

The star has also ditched the filler as she stated: 'I don't get filler. I have had my lips dissolved. I want to look more natural.'

Amber looked unrecognisable as she shared a throwback snap (left) of herself as a teenager before having lip fillers (pictured 2021)

Harry Derbridge

 Slide me  Harry, 30, was first introduced to the series via his cousin Amy Childs, becoming TOWIE's first openly gay cast member (pictured left in 2011, and right in 2022)

Harry, 30, was first introduced to the series via his cousin Amy Childs, becoming TOWIE's first openly gay cast member.

And while the reality star has faced accusation of cosmetic procedures, in 2020 Harry hit back at trolls commenting on his weight gain as he explained he had overcome a 'terrible eating disorder'.

Harry returned to TOWIE for the 10th anniversary celebrations in 2020, and the star was forced to take to Twitter as he confirmed he had not undergone Botox, only some lip filler.

He penned: 'Honestly... I won't say this again, I haven't had any filler or Botox in my face, the only thing I have had done is a tiny bit of lip filler... so can we all stop comparing 16 year old harry to 26 year old harry. It actually makes me laugh...

In 2017, Harry shared an emotional post about the transformation his body has gone through, revealing he weighed just seven stone at one point

'And to the saying 'I've piled on the pounds' the answer is... yes I have, I went through a terrible eating disorder and I have worked so hard on myself to over come it over the years, and honestly... I think I look better then ever'.

In 2017, Harry shared an emotional post about the transformation his body has gone through, revealing he weighed just seven stone at one point.

In a lengthy message, Harry explained: 'My journey with an eating disorder was a struggle and I know I'm not a muscle pump up pete now but where I am right now I have never felt and looked better in myself.

'The image on the left aged 16 I was 7 stone and very unhealthy and could go a day without eating, I also had a fear of food which can be diagnosed as a 'food phobia'.

Dani Imbert

 Slide me  Dani Imbert also suffered complication as a result of her BBL, after she revealed she was left at 'death's door' following the procedure (pictured on the left in 2021, and right 2024)

Dani Imbert also suffered complication as a result of her BBL, after she revealed she was left at 'death's door' following the procedure.

Talking to OK! magazine following her operation, she described how she was left 'crying everyday' and 'swollen for weeks'.

Dani, who joined the TOWIE cast in 2021, said: 'I didn't realise how long the recovery was. You can't sit down after having it done.

'I was lying on my front or kneeling for eight weeks and couldn't even put on my shoes or socks for six weeks.'

But Dani, 26, has confessed she loves her new look, saying that she just 'wanted a bit more meat on my bottom half'.

The star has also undergone nose filler, cheek filler, veneers and a breast augmentation.

After posting details of her boob job on Instagram, Dani was met with a huge backlash, as fans accused her of promoting the procedure.

Snapping back, Dani took to her Instagram Story as she said: 'I'm pretty sure I'm not the first girl in the world that's had their boobs done, so I don't understand why people are so outraged by me getting my boobs done.'

Junaid Ahmed

 Slide me  Junaid Ahmed joined TOWIE in 2022 and is, by his own admission, no stranger to cosmetic surgery (pictured on left in 2014, right in 2023)

Junaid Ahmed joined TOWIE in 2022 and is, by his own admission, no stranger to cosmetic surgery.

He has undergone a rhinoplasty, a nose job, surgery on his chin and his hairline and veneers  all in Turkey.

The reality TV star, 29, shared his 10,000 cosmetic surgery results in a birthday snap on Instagram to his 67,000 followers in December 2022.

Boasting over his transformation, he captioned the post: 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME... New nose, new chin, new hairline.'

He told the Secure The Insecure showbiz podcast that his nose 'needed to be fixed' because of a vicious attack he endured at the hands of bullies as a teenager, adding they 'broke my nose in three different places'.

He said: 'When I was younger, I was so horrifically bullied in school. I was attacked on a few occasions, and the bullies broke my nose in three different places.

'This wasn't something I just thought out, because I've had a lot of comments like, "Oh, he's just come on reality TV, and he's getting his nose". Far from the point.

'This is years of torment that I had to go through, and I've had breathing issues since the age of 16, when my nose was broken by the bullies.'
AFL WAG Bec Judd has paid a touching tribute to her late grandfather.

The 41-year-old took to her stories on Friday with a gallery of photos celebrating the life of her recently departed loved one.

Bec included what appears to be a throwback photo of her Pop and Nana on their wedding day in the share.

'Reunited in heaven today. So glad I got to say goodbye and tell you I love you.' she captioned the sweet picture.

She also included a photo of herself and her sister Kate Twiggy posing with their Pop.

AFL WAG Bec Judd (pictured) has paid a touching tribute to her late grandfather

The 41-year-old took to her stories on Friday with a gallery of photos celebrating the life of her much loved Pop including a beautiful throwback photo. Pictured

'You'll always have a special place in our hearts Pop,' she said in the caption.

Meanwhile, Bec travelled to West Australia for her Pop's farewell this week reported Perth Now.

Accompanying the popular influencer to Perth was her husband Chris Judd and their children the publication said on Friday.

Bec has carved out a hugely successful career as a social media star, nabbing a whole string of lucrative paid partnerships.

She also included a photo of herself and her sister Kate Twiggy posing with their Pop.

The wife of AFL star Chris Judd has collaborated with an array of top brands as well as launching her very own activewear line during her rise to fame.

Bec, who has racked up more than 750,000 Instagram followers, is said to be paid around $5,500 per sponsored post, according to the Herald Sun.

Her paid partnerships see her plug a whole string of products, brands and holiday destinations as she has soared to success as a popular social media influencer.
South Korea and the United States kicked off a joint annual air exercise Friday, involving some 100 warplanes, to strengthen their readiness against North Korean military threats, their air forces said.

The two-week Korea Flying Training (KFT) got under way at Kunsan Air Base in Gunsan, 178 kilometers south of Seoul, with plans to mobilize around 25 types of aircraft, including U.S. F-35B and South Korean F-35A stealth fighters, according to a joint release.

The exercise, which will also involve U.S. Army and Marine Corps personnel, focuses on integrating advanced fighter jet operations, enhancing precision strike capabilities, and training troops on combat search and rescue scenarios and mass paratrooper airdrops, it said.

"Our ability to train together at this scope enhances interoperability and enables our forces to be ready for any potential situations," said Col. Charles G. Cameron, director of operations and plans at the U.S. 7th Air Force in South Korea, in the release.

KFT is one of the two regular large-scale air exercises the allies hold every year. KFT is held in the first half of the year, while the other  named Vigilant Defense last year  takes place in the latter half.

The exercise comes as tensions run high from North Korea's continued weapons tests this year, including its April 2 launch of a purported solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. (Yonhap)
Ashley Roberts looked incredible as she stepped out wearing a mini skirt in the 21 degree London heat on Friday.

The Heart Radio host, 42, enjoyed the sunshine with her legs out and shades on as she headed home after reporting on showbiz news.

Ashley, who presents alongside Amanda Holden, 53, and Jamie Theakston, 53, on the breakfast show at Heart FM, kept things on trend with her outfit.

She wore a beige suede cowboy style jacket and skirt from fashion retailer All Saints, along with black leather look heeled boots from Coperni.

The former Pussy Cat Dolls member kept things simple with the accessories by holding a black mini Balenciaga handbag, which costs around 2,000.

Ashley Roberts put on a leggy display in a tiny mini-skirt as she enjoyed the sunshine while leaving the Heart FM studios in London on Friday

She wore a beige suede cowboy style jacket and skirt from fashion retailer All Saints, along with black leather look heeled boots from Coperni

Posting a selfie wearing the stylish outfit to her 712,000 followers, she wrote: 'My nana's name was Boots, no lie.'

Her colleague Amanda Holden also appeared to be thankful for the sunshine as she was spotted walking to work with a big grin on her face.

The radio host, 53, strutted her stuff on the way home from work wearing a blue suit with snakeskin looking high-heels.

And like her colleague Ashley, Amanda decided to keep things simple by only accesorising her outfit with a mini handbag, shades and delicate necklace.

Amanda also took to Instagram to tell her 2.2million followers her 'excitement' for the day, whilst revealing where her stylish outfit is from.

She says: 'Hello, it's Friday. This fabulous outfit is from Karen Millen. Isn't it glorious?

'This massive cuff fitted shirt, lovely trousers. So comfortable and it's sort of made from shirt material. I hate ironing so none of it needs an iron.'

Amanda then went on to talk about her bag, which is from Aspinal of London.

She says: 'This beautiful bag. Look at her. Look how pretty she is. This is from Aspinal. Have a wonderful weekend.'

Ashley used the pavement as her catwalk as she showed off her Balenciaga mini handbag and leather boots

Posting a selfie wearing the stylish outfit to her 712k followers, she wrote: 'My nana's name was Boots, no lie'

Amanda Holden also appeared to be thankful for the sunshine as she was spotted walking back home from work with a big grin on her face

Amanda strutted her stuff holding a Aspinal of London handbag as she flashed a cheeky grin for the camera on her outing

Amanda also took to Instagram to tell her 2.2million followers her 'excitement' for the day, whilst revealing where her stylish outfit is from

In February, Ashley made her first public appearance with her new boyfriend George Rollinson, who is an artist.

The broadcaster has been dating the artist, 25, since last November, MailOnline revealed.

George is Ashley's first serious partner since her split from Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice in 2020.

The artist, who is 17 years Ashley's junior, has previously collaborated with boxer Francis Ngannou for his fight against Tyson Fury, decorating the Cameroonian's boots with his own designs.

He has also created elaborate pieces for the likes of celebrity clients Drake and Anthony Joshua.

A source told MailOnline in November: 'Ashley and George are smitten with each other.

'They have chosen to keep their relationship private for now but gradually have started sharing snippets from their life together on social media.

'George is extremely successful in his own right, creating artwork for massive names and establishing himself in his craft from a young age.

'Ashley isn't at all bothered about their age difference... they have similar interests, and he has inspired her creatively, she hasn't felt this way in a long time.'
A Place In The Sun star Jasmine Harman has relocated to Spain after years of helping others find their forever homes abroad.

Jasmine has presented the show for over 20 years whilst also hosting series like Britain's Compulsive Shoppers and The Truth About Your Teeth.

Although she has been a familiar smiling face on our screens for decades, life has not been smooth sailing for Jasmine.

From IVF struggles to the passing of her co-star Jonnie Irvin, the TV presenter has experienced her fair share of heartbreak.

As the star relocates to sunny Spain, MailOnline takes a look why she made the move.

A Place In The Sun star Jasmine Harman (pictured) has relocated to Spain after years of helping others find their forever homes abroad

The presenter made the move to Estepona with her son Albion, daughter Joy and her husband Jon (left to right: Joy, Jasmine and Albion)

Where in Spain does Jasmine Harman live?

Jasmine, who has been presenting A Place In The Sun since 2004, decided to relocate to the sunny shores of Spain in October 2023.

She headed off on her adventure in Estepona, Costa Del Sol, with her two children and her husband Jon Boast and has been living on the continent ever since.

The TV presenter announced the move on her Instagram, describing the move as 'stressful' and 'intense'.

'Life has many ups and downs. Sometimes the hardest things to do, bring the greatest rewards.

'Moving country has been stressful and intense and at times, overwhelming. But now we're here and we plan to make the most of it!'

After making the move to the continent, the TV presenter also revealed that she had adopted a stray kitten.

She shared on Instagram: 'Family News! We have a new addition! Over the holidays, a friend of ours found a kitten all alone by some bins.

'We have taken her in, shes now called Hazel and shes adapting amazingly to life with a family.'

Why did Jasmine Harman move to Spain?

Jon and Jasmine decided to move to the continent so they could spend more time together as a family (left to right: Jon, Albion, Jasmine and Joy)

In an interview with Hello, Jasmine explained that she made the move to spend more time with her children, as she felt the years were slipping away in the UK.

The TV host explained that there were more opportunities in Span for her two youngsters, and also added that she loved the sense of community in Spain

'Our children mean the world to us. Everything we do is for them. It's about grasping opportunities when you have them,' she added.

'Family is the most important thing and this will give us a much better balance.'

Elaborating about the community in Estepona, she said: 'We have lots of Spanish families nearby and Ive been hovering outside to say hello to all our new neighbours.'

Her husband Jon revealed it took them a while to live for the moment, however the 'stressful' move to Spain was worth it.

However, whilst the mother-of-two's commute became significantly easier when after they made the move to Spain - Jon's became a lot longer.

But the photographer was seemingly unfazed quipping it was now his turn to travel back and forth to the UK.

While he may be raking up more miles on the clock to and from work, Jon said it is a relief to arrive home to their 'sanctuary' in Spain.

He told Hello: 'This is not just a house; it's our sanctuary. Jasmine has worked her magic and this place already feels like our little haven.'

Where did Jasmine meet her husband?

Jasmine first met her husband Jon whilst they were both working on A Place In The Sun episode in Portugal (pictured)

Jasmine first met Jon, 44, whilst she was working on A Place In The Sun in Portugal, with the pair later walking down the aisle in 2009.

The TV host revealed it was not love at first sight with her cameraman husband, telling the Sun: 'It was more of a slow burn. We met, became great friends and then we fell in love.'

Before jetting off to Spain, the Place In The Sun Star lived with her husband and two children in a 1930s house in Carshalton, South London.

Jasmine - who originally hails from Hackney - shared a daughter called Joy, nine, and a son named Albion, seven, with her husband.

She has been transparent regarding her fertility issues on the Made By Mamas podcast.

'I had a few issues, with an ovarian cyst, they call it tumour, but it was completely benign.

'They wanted to check that before I could go for IVF,' she said.

The TV host, who is of Greek-Cypriot heritage, revealed that she began to panic about running out of time to have children in her early thirties.

'At that point, I was like "Why did I leave it so late, why was I not fussed about having kids".

'I was two weeks off my 38 birthday when Joy was born.

'So it was from the time I decided I wanted to do it, to the time I got pregnant was six years.'

'At the time it felt there was a bit of stigma and I didn't want to talk about it publicly.

'It really meant a lot when I was trying to get pregnant to do so naturally and I had acupuncture, health supplements and did all these different techniques because I really wanted to get pregnant naturally.'

Jasmine only had to do one round of IVF before falling pregnant with her eldest daughter Joy.

The tragic loss of her co-star Jonnie Irvin

Jasmine Harman first met her late co-star Jonnie Irvin on a pilot of A Place In the Sun, which was filmed in South Africa in 2004

Jonnie tragically lost his battle with lung cancer aged 50 in early February after being diagnosed with the disease in 2020

Jasmine had a close relationship with her co-star Jonnie, who sadly passed away after being diagnosed with cancer.

The presenter paid tribute to Jonnie in an Instagram post, where she admitted she didn't feel like celebrating her TV anniversary without him.

Sharing a montage of pictures of herself and Jonnie, Jasmine wrote: 'I recently passed the 20 year anniversary of my first ever shoot on A Place in the Sun.

'Two decades ago, my career turned onto a different path which has shaped so many factors of my life until now. From meeting my husband, having our children, moving to Spain, to making so many wonderful friends over the years.

'In particular, one very special friend'

Jasmine continued: 'Jonnie and I started our Television careers together, which makes the 20 year anniversary especially poignant.

'Without him, I have not really felt like celebrating. I've been pretty choked up about posting anything about it to be honest.

'I miss him. He was always full of fun and mischief, it doesn't seem possible that he is gone.

'In Jonnie's memory, I give you a snippet of the last 20 years. What an honour to work with someone so vibrant and fun.

'Thank you Jonnie for the memories, sending love as always to Jonnie's family and loved ones.'

Jasmine, 48, broke her social media hiatus following his death to post a touching memorial to Jonnie whilst celebrating her 20-year milestone on the show
The Crown's Meg Bellamy looks completely different to when she played Kate Middleton as she debuted her shorter bob at a party on Thursday.

Meg, 21, who plays the Duchess of Cambridge in the Netflix hit series, looked effortlessly chic as she attended the Australian fashion brand Forever New party to celebrate its new collection Ciao Bella at Mortimer House in London.

The actress, who bore a striking resemblance to the Princess Of Wales in the drama with her shoulder length locks, chopped her hair.

Meg cut a sophisticated figure at the soiree and wore a tailored brown waistcoat and paired it with flared off-white trousers.

Continuing to stay on trend, the actress styled the outfit with a pair of orange and white cowboy boots.

The Crown's Meg Bellamy looked world's away from her alter-ego character Kate Middleton at the Forever New party after she got her hair chopped off

The actress, who bore a striking resemblance to the Princess Of Wales in the drama (pictured right on The Crown), chopped her hair keeping the length above her shoulders

Continuing to stay on trend, the actress styled the outfit with a pair of orange and white cowboy boots.

Meg, who was finally introduced on season six, played Kate as a student in the early days of her romance with William at the University of St Andrews in Scotland.

Meg, originally from Leeds, joined other TV stars at the fashionable bash which included model Roxy Horner, and Dancing On Ice's figure skater Vanessa Bauer, all wearing outfits from Forever New.

Roxy, who welcomed her first born with comedian Jack Whitehall September last year, looked stunning in a white sleeveless gown with black boots.

Stepping out seven months after she had her daughter Elsie, the outfit showed off her svelte figure.

The final six episodes of The Crown, which were released on Netflix on December 14, brings the key moment at university in the blossoming relationship between the now-Prince and Princess of Wales onto our screens.

During an appearance on This Morning previously, Meg explained: 'We were babies we don't really remember anything from the actual real life events of this series.'

'I think that is helpful because we were able to just look at it as a character on the page,' Ed added.

The brunette bombshell dressed with true class at the soiree and wore a subtle but sophisticated tailored suit from Forever New

Meg replicated the moment Kate Middleton first caught the eye of Prince William at a St Andrew's charity fashion show back in 2002

Roxy, who welcomed her first born in September last year, looked stunning in a white sleeveless gown from the Forever New collection

Stepping out seven months after she had her daughter Elsie, the outfit showed off her svelte figure

Dancing On Ice's figure skater Vanessa Bauer got felt summery with her outfit and opted for a stunning bright orange dress from Forever New

Recalling the moment they discovered they had secured their roles, co-star Luther Ford who plays Prince Harry recalled: 'It was an open casting call and my sister sent it me. I was studying film at the time and I had no plans to become an actor.

'My mum specifically told me, you're never going to get the part you look nothing like him!'

Meg explained: 'I was at Legoland Windsor when I got the call. I was playing a giant snake when I got the message.

'I had to run into a room and when I came back out the first person I spoke to was a customer who was like, "my queue skip card isn't working" I was like "hang on a minute" because I thought I might pass out.'
When Victoria Beckham sits down at the table in the opulent London restaurant where she will celebrate her 50th birthday next week in the company of her nearest and dearest, she will do so with a very wide smile on her face.

As a woman who for decades didn't have the confidence to crack a grin in public, this milestone is one of the most poignant in her life.

Finally, after years of worrying what others thought of her and the global scrutiny she has endured, she simply no longer gives a damn.

Friends of the fashion designer, still affectionately known as Posh Spice, say that she is 'quietly content' with her life.

And despite her wealth of around 365million, her favourite present is one money cannot buy - to have all her children in the same room together - something which, say sources close to the family, 'hardly ever happens any more'.

For that reason alone, next Wednesday, the day of her birthday, is special. She will be joined for a small 'family' day by her four children - some of whom are flying in from America to watch her blow out her candles.

Brooklyn Beckham and his actress wife Nicola Peltz celebrate their wedding anniversary with his parents David and Victoria last year

Two years ago they were barely on speaking terms but the Mail can reveal that Nicola genuinely sees Victoria as her second mother

For Victoria there is one guest who it really will warm her heart to see - daughter-in-law Nicola

'Repairing that fallout is something that Victoria is immensely proud of, and it brings her so much joy that she will be part of these celebrations,' said a friend

Brooklyn, 25, and his wife Nicola will fly 5,000 miles from Los Angeles to be at her side, as will her youngest son Cruz, 19, who has also moved out there to further his music career. Romeo, 21, has cleared his diary and Harper, 12, their only daughter, will be joining when she finishes the school day.

'It will be a small, intimate, family gathering, and it is literally the best present that she could have,' said the friend. 'It will be close to their London home. David has pulled a few surprises but what Victoria really wants is to be surrounded by her loved ones.

'The kids are staying for a few days, which Victoria loves, and they will all join her at her posh dinner on Saturday night.'

The family will be joined by a group of close friends for this. While the guest list will be selective, I'm told to expect some 'well known names' including her best friend Tana Ramsay and her husband Gordon.

Actress Eva Longoria is also expected to fly in from America and 'one or two' of the Spice Girls might make an appearance. But, say sources, it won't be a 'circus'.

'The champagne will be flowing, as will the tequila but it won't be a big bash,' said the friend. 'Despite what people think, Victoria isn't a showy, flashy person and she doesn't have crowds of mates, just special ones who she wants to spend her big day with.'

For Victoria, though, there is one guest who it really will warm her heart to see - daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz.

'Victoria takes the view that she's 50 and if her husband still loves her bum then she's delighted,' I'm told

'Her birthday will be a small, intimate, family gathering, and it is literally the best present that she could have,' said a friend

On July 4 Victoria and David will celebrate another huge milestone - their 25th wedding anniversary

Two years ago, the women were not on speaking terms after Brooklyn and Nicola's wedding in April 2022, and Victoria and David both feared that they could lose Brooklyn over the feud.

Speculation over the cause of the rift was rife, but it appeared that problems began after it emerged that Victoria didn't have time to make Nicola's wedding dress.

Instead, the bride wore Valentino - and later gave an interview insisting that her choice of designer was not intended to be a slight against her future mother-in-law.

But today, things couldn't be more different. In fact, the Mail can reveal that Nicola genuinely sees Victoria as her second mother.

'Nicola comes from a huge [extended] family and as such her mum has lots of different children to attend to,' says a friend. 'Nicola has formed this beautiful bond with Victoria, Nicola is literally like her own daughter.

'Repairing that fallout is something that Victoria is immensely proud of, and it brings her so much joy that she will be part of these celebrations. To have her there is a wonderful gift.'

As for the birthday girl's outfit, there's also good news for Victoria - she will almost certainly be out of her surgical boot.

She broke her foot after taking a tumble in the gym on Valentine's Day and has since had to wear the unsightly equipment while she recovers. The Mail has been told that the break has been difficult to heal because she is so 'active'.

As a result, David, 48, hilariously gifted her a 300 KneeRover mobility bike, designed to make sure she keeps pressure off her left leg, giving it the best chance to be ready for her big day.

'One or two' of the Spice Girls might make an appearance for the birthday celebrations. But, say sources, it won't be a 'circus'

Victoria, known as Posh Spice, and the other Spice Girls meet the Queen after the Royal Variety Performance at the London Palladium in 1997

Victoria has been spotted limping to and from fashion shows and dinners on crutches wearing one shoe - sometimes high-heeled - with the other in a boot.

While friends say she took her injury 'very much in her stride', they also insist she is determined to look her best for her 50th and is willing to do whatever it takes to arrive at her celebrations with both feet in her trademark high heels.

'It has been a really frustrating time for Victoria and she has been seeing medical experts a lot recently so they can see what progress it is making,' said a friend.

'But at the moment she is pretty confident that she will be back in her stilettoes in time for her party. Victoria, and of course David who has been so invested in its fixing too, have literally everything crossed.'

It would be the final piece of her 50th birthday jigsaw. As well as mending her family rift with Brooklyn and Nicola, she is thrilled to have turned a financial corner with her fashion company.

In December she recorded how she has turned a profit for the first time in 15 years - with the help of sales of an 890 clutch bag, a 30 eyeliner and a carefully orchestrated social media strategy which sees her post make-up tutorial videos on TikTok which are watched by millions. It is something she is said to be 'very proud of.'

On July 4, Victoria and David will celebrate another huge milestone - their 25th wedding anniversary. They first got together when Victoria was in the Spice Girls and David played for Manchester United, and few thought it would last the test of time.

However despite some lows - including David's alleged fling with personal assistant Rebecca Loos in 2004 while he was playing for Real Madrid - it has become one of the longest lasting marriages in showbusiness and plans are afoot for yet another bash of sorts.

For today, friends say, their marriage is better than ever. As their accumulated 120 million Instagram followers can attest, the couple enjoy their time together, particularly at weekends, at their converted barn in the Cotswolds Village of Great Tew.

Recently, Victoria posted a video of the former England captain changing a lightbulb, zooming in on his bottom as she filmed him. He has done the same to her and, while there were times in the past when she would not have been amused, now she couldn't love it more.

'Victoria takes the view that she's 50 and if her husband still loves her bum then she's delighted,' I'm told.

'It kind of sums up their relationship. They are content and happy, they laugh a lot, which has been one of the keys to making it work. It would not be a lie to say that they are in a better place than ever. And that delights Victoria.'

She also feels blessed to still have both her parents, Tony and Jackie, as well as her in-laws, Ted and Sandra.

In short, say her friends, Victoria has come of age and her life has come together.

'For so long she has felt so scrutinised and judged. And now it's not about money for Victoria, but about contentment. She has finally become comfortable in her own skin, she doesn't really give a **** any more what people think.

'For years people said she only had a fashion brand because of David but she has proven that is not the case and there is a huge sense of pride.

She has found herself in both her professional and personal lives. Something has really changed with her.'

Speaking on David's Netflix documentary, Beckham, she told viewers how she now felt 'at peace'.

'I feel really content now and I get that sense that you [David] feel content now. When you were younger you were constantly chasing and there's an element of you're passing the baton on and you want that for your kids.'

Talking of which, there is another present that money can't buy which would be the icing on Victoria's birthday cake - to become a grandmother.

Although she recently joked that she wasn't quite ready for the next generation of Beckhams, as a hands-on mother of four, there is nothing she and David would love more. So will it happen during her big year?

'Brooklyn is obsessed with babies,' said a pal of the family. 'He was about 11 when Harper was born and has doted on her ever since. He wants to be a young dad. So, watch this space.'
Golden Bachelor stars Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist shocked fans of the franchise on Friday when they announced their divorce in a joint interview on Good Morning America.

Now there is speculation around the former couple's financial situation and whether or not they will have to divide their assets.

When it comes to Theresa's huge $40,000 diamond engagement ring from jeweler Neil Lane, the 70-year-old unfortunately has to return it as per her contract.

'I think thats the rule, I think I have to give this ring back. Sad to say,' she told host Juju Chang.

The custom ring had as its main stone a princess cut diamond with two longer baguette diamonds on the sides as it was set in gold.

Golden Bachelor stars Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist shocked fans of the franchise on Friday when they announced their divorce in a joint interview on GMA

When it comes to Theresa's huge $40,000 diamond engagement ring from jeweler Neil Lane, the 70-year-old unfortunately has to return it as per her contract

The custom ring had as its main stone a princess cut diamond with two longer baguette diamonds on the sides as it was set in gold

It was further set with 128 small round stones, coming out to 3.15 karats.

The rock looks to be worth about $40,000, Chris Arakel of The Diamond Bank in Los Angeles told DailyMail.com last year.

'The center stone is a generous size and the baguettes are not small, so that is why the price is on the high end,' he shared. 'It has a timeless traditional setting.'

Although she doesn't get to keep the ring, Theresa will be able to hold on to the rest of her assets thanks to an airtight prenup that the pair signed before walking down the aisle.

She owns a $568,000 home in New Jersey and currently works in financial services.

On Friday, Gerry and estranged wife Theresa revealed that they're getting a divorce just three months after they tied the knot in a 'dream' ceremony that was broadcast across the nation.

Gerry, 72, and Theresa, 70, announced the news of their split during an interview on Good Morning America, where they opened up about the reasons for their shock separation.

On Good Morning America, Gerry admitted that their decision to separate was motivated in large part by their 'dedication' to their respective families

Gerry was living at his lake house in Northern Indiana, while Theresa remained in her house in New Jersey (seen), where she'd been living with her family

'Theresa and I have had a number of heart-to-heart conversations, and weve looked closely at our situation, our living situation, so forth and - and weve kind of come to the conclusion mutually that its probably time for us to - dissolve our marriage,' Gerry shared.

He admitted that their decision to separate was motivated in large part by their 'dedication' to their respective families - hinting that this has made it incredibly difficult for them to decide on a place to settle down together.

Both Gerry, a retired restauranteur from Indiana, and Theresa, a securities professional from New Jersey, have kids from past relationships; he has two daughters and two granddaughters, while she has a son, daughter, and six grandsons.

'The thing that strikes me the most in our conversations, its been how dedicated both of us are to our families,' Gerry explained.

'So we look at these situations and I think we just feel like its best for the happiness of each of us to live apart.'

However, Theresa insisted that the former couple tried their utmost to reach a compromise that would work for both of their families, revealing that they had looked at different locations across the country in the hopes of finding a ideal home to start their new lives together.

'The thing that strikes me the most in our conversations, its been how dedicated both of us are to our families,' he explained

'We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at home after home, but we never got to the point where we made that decision,' she said.

'We have received so much love and support from so many people who watched The Golden Bachelor, and I dont think we can tell you how many people told us that it gave them so much hope,' Theresa added. 'We want none of that to change for anybody.'

When asked if they 'fell out of love,' Gerry insisted, 'No. I still love this person. There's no doubt in my mind, I am still in love with her and still root for her every day.'

The couple met on the first season of the Golden Bachelor, which premiered late last year, and Gerry proposed during the show's finale.

They then tied the knot in January during a televised wedding, with Theresa gushing in her vows, 'I promise to be your calm in a storm, to comfort you when you're sad, to laugh with you when you're happy, and just stick with you throughout it all.'
Jennifer Lawrence turned the streets of New York City's East Village into her personal runway while stepping out on Friday morning.

The 33-year-old actress stood out in a bright red crewneck sweatshirt worn underneath a jet-black double-breasted jacket as she made her way down the city's walkways.

The star of the Hunger Games franchise - who was recently spotted in the company of her young son Cy - also wore a pair of slightly oversized pants that matched the color of her outerwear, as well as dual-tone sneakers.

Lawrence accessorized with a bright yellow purse and dark sunglasses, and her voluminous blonde locks cascaded onto her shoulders.

The performer's outing took place just a day after it was revealed that Apple Original Films had obtained the global rights to the documentary feature Bread & Roses, which she produced.

Jennifer Lawrence turned the streets of New York City's East Village into her personal runway while stepping out on Friday morning

According to Deadline, the Sahra Mani-directed feature made its official debut during the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

The documentary was centered on a trio of Afghan women resisting the rule of the Taliban.

In addition to Lawrence and her producing partner Justine Ciarrocchi, the feature was produced by Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai.

The feature received positive reviews upon its debut, and it currently holds a score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Bread & Roses is currently set to premiere on the Apple TV+ streaming service on June 21.

The American Hustle actress spoke about the feature during an interview with Deadline and recalled that she first developed an interest in the plight of Afghan women while monitoring the end of the War in Afghanistan.

'I was watching the fall of Kabul on the news in 2021 and I told Justine, you know, we need to find somebody on the ground, that can get a camera in there,' she said.

Lawrence went on to praise Mani and opened up about why she wanted the filmmaker to helm the feature.

The 33-year-old actress stood out in a bright red crewneck sweater worn underneath a jet-black double-breasted jacket as she made her way down the city's walkways

Lawrence accessorized with a bright yellow purse and dark sunglasses, and her voluminous blonde locks cascaded onto her shoulders

The performer's outing took place just a day after it was revealed that Apple Original Films had obtained the global rights to the documentary feature Bread & Roses, which she produced

'She's the perfect person to do it...I think her point of view, not to mention her camera abilities are remarkable,' she stated.

The performer then spoke about her production company, Excellent Cadaver, which she founded in 2018.

'What we want to do is just keep making things that we respond to, that we care about. We're right at the genesis of the company so it's hard to say what it is, or what it will be,' she stated.

'We'll just keep following what's important to us and what we want to make,' she added.
Camila Morrone was spotted enjoying a solo stroll in New York City on Friday.

The 26-year-old actress looked effortlessly chic bundled up in a classic trench coat thrown over a business casual, all-black ensemble for her outing.

She donned a skintight black T-shirt paired with high-waisted trousers and white striped sneakers to complete her look.

At one point when the rain started coming down, the model  who opened up about the challenges she has faced while working in Hollywood in her Vogue Mexico cover story last month  took out a baby pink umbrella to cover herself while walking along the busy city streets.

She was seen toting a black quilted Chanel purse on her shoulder and carried her phone in her hand.

Camila Morrone was spotted enjoying a solo stroll in New York City on Friday. The 26-year-old actress looked effortlessly chic bundled up in a classic trench coat thrown over a business casual, all-black ensemble for her outing

She left her dark brunette tresses down in loose beach waves and jazzed up her look with gold hoop earrings and a pair of black wayfarer sunglasses.

For makeup, she opted for a natural look complete with a touch of peach blush and a glossy pink lip.

Late last month, the Daisy Jones & The Six star graced the cover of Vogue Mexico and spoke about how working in Hollywood continues to be a challenge despite having six years of acting experience under her belt.

'In this career that I chose, that I love so much, it is a constant uphill battle,' she admitted to the outlet.

'There has definitely never been a single moment where I thought, "I've made it, I've arrived",' she added. 'It is a constant process of growing, evolving and learning about my craft.'

And at times, the Argentinian-American star said her life still feels surreal and she feels like she has already lived multiple lives.

'It's strange because when I talk about my life, I feel like I'm already 100 years old, when I'm only 26,' she explained.

'But the reality is that I have been working since I was 14,' she said.

She donned a skintight black T-shirt paired with high-waisted trousers and white striped sneakers to complete her look. At one point when the rain started coming down, the model took out a baby pink umbrella to cover herself while walking along the busy city streets

She was seen toting a black quilted Chanel purse on her shoulder and carried her phone in her hand

Late last month, the Daisy Jones & The Six star graced the cover of Vogue Mexico and spoke about how working in Hollywood continues to be a challenge despite having six years of acting experience under her belt

And at times, the Argentinian-American star said her life still feels surreal and she feels like she has already lived multiple lives since she started working at age 14; seen in January 2024

And even since her early youth, she has always known that she wanted to become an actor. 'At the end of the day, I always knew in my gut, in my heart, that I wanted to be an actress. But it was a struggle to make the leap'; seen in December 2023

And even since her early youth, she has always known that she wanted to become an actor.

'At the end of the day, I always knew in my gut, in my heart, that I wanted to be an actress. But it was a struggle to make the leap.'

She continued: 'I wanted to go after my dreams, but I was very afraid of failing.

'I saw how difficult this industry is from a very young age.'
Real Housewives of Potomac's Dr. Wendy Osefo's home in Finksburg, Maryland was burglarized while she was vacationing with her family.

After returning from Jamaica, the 39-year-old TV personality revealed that she had a number of expensive items stolen from her, including multiple Birkin bags and jewelry.

'My family and I are devastated and feel violated by this intrusion. We thank God no one was home  so for that we feel very blessed. Material things can always be replaced,' she told TMZ.

The Carroll County Sheriff's Office confirmed to the outlet that the 'theft was reported to their office on Sunday' but did not provide any further details as 'the investigation is still ongoing.'

Real Housewives of Potomac's Dr. Wendy Osefo's home in Finksburg, Maryland was burglarized while she was vacationing with her family

A source told the outlet that the 'thieves took off with a majority of her designer bags, including a few Birkin bags.'

The insider noted that the robbers also 'swiped a large amount of Wendy's jewelry.'

Before discovering the burglary, the reality star was happily posting from her tropical getaway at the Azul Beach Resort Negril as she and her husband Eddie Osefo made the most of their children's spring break.

The couple, who have been married for 12 years, share three children Kamryn Kapri Osefo, Kruz Osefo, and Karter Osefo.

Wendy's home has made several cameos on Real Housewives of Potomac, and back in 2020, she gave Bravo a tour of the expansive property.

In a video for Bravo Insider, she showed off her library, where she displays her eight diplomas, as well as her stunning bedroom, all-white living room and kitchen.

While Wendy is best known as a a main cast member of The Real Housewives of Potomac, she also works as an an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins School of Education and political commentator.

She was born in Nigeria, and moved to the United States with her family at the age of 3 to Durham, North Carolina.

After returning from Jamaica, the 39-year-old political commentator revealed that she had a number of expensive items stolen from her, including multiple Birkin bags and jewelry

'My family and I are devastated and feel violated by this intrusion. We thank God no one was home  so for that we feel very blessed. Material things can always be replaced,' she told TMZ

Wendy made her debut on RHOP in its fifth season, which aired in 2020.

Her spouse works as an attorney, but recently entered into a new business.

While he still works as a lawyer, he and his wife opened up about his latest venture on season 8 of The Real Housewives of Potomac.

He revealed he would be working in the cannabis industry.

The Carroll County Sheriff's Office confirmed to TMZ that the 'theft was reported to their office on Sunday' but did not provide any further details as 'the investigation is still ongoing'

Wendy's home (seen above) has made several cameos on Real Housewives of Potomac, and back in 2020, she gave Bravo a tour of the expansive property

'This cannabis industry ... I think this is gonna be the gold mine,' he predicted.

He went on to say he was entering the industry because 'Maryland legalized the recreational use of marijuana in 2022, but only 2 percent of the [cannabis] industry is Black in terms of entrepreneurs.'

'I wanted to be that conduit for change,' he said.

'I think this is the first time in our marriage that we are both knee-deep in what we're doing,' Wendy gushed.
Adrian Schillers cause of death has been revealed as a 'major ischaemic stroke', his agent confirmed on Friday.

The actor, who was best known for his roles in The Last Kingdom and three series of ITV drama Victoria, in which he played Cornelius Penge, died aged 60 at home on the morning of April 3.

Scott Marshall Partners, who represented him for more than three decades, added in a statement to PA Media: 'While his death has left his family and friends shocked and grief-stricken, it is of some comfort to know that he will have died almost instantly and not felt any pain.

'We can also confirm that his funeral will be in May, with a larger memorial and celebration of his life to be held later in the year.'

Schiller also starred in BBC series Death In Paradise and historical dramas The Musketeers on the BBC and The Devils Whore on Channel 4.

Adrian Schillers cause of death has been revealed as a 'major ischaemic stroke', his agent confirmed on Friday

He was recently seen in an episode of BBC detective series Father Brown in January.

Also known for his theatre work, Schiller was among the cast in play The White Factory at Marylebone Theatre last year.

He also appeared in TV series including A Touch Of Frost, Raised By Wolves, Residue, The Hollow Crown, Doctor Who, New Tricks, Being Human, Silent Witness, Judge John Deed and My Family.

According to the Stroke Association, an ischaemic stroke happens 'when a blockage cuts off the blood supply to part of your brain, killing brain cells'.

The charity adds that 'around 85% of strokes in the UK are ischaemic strokes', making them the most common type of stroke.

News of his death came from his agent Scott Marshall Partners with a statement reading: 'He has died far too soon, and we, his family and close friends are devastated by the loss.

'His death was sudden and unexpected and no further details around its cause are yet available.

'A prodigiously talented actor, he had just returned from Sydney, where he had been appearing in The Lehman Trilogy and was looking forward to continuing the international tour in San Francisco.'

Scott Marshall Partners, who represented him, added in a statement: 'It is of some comfort to know that he will have died almost instantly and not felt any pain'

He was best known for his roles in The Last Kingdom and three series of ITV drama Victoria, in which he played Cornelius Penge, a member of the royal household

Schilling leaves behind his partner Milena and young son Gabriel.

The actor's sister Ginny also confirmed the news in a message posted on Schiller's Twitter account, writing that they were focused on supporting Schiller's partner and son:

'Dear all. This is Ginny. I'm so sorry to let you all know that our beloved brother Adrian died suddenly at home yesterday.'

'He had so many very dear friends - sorry to those of you who are learning about this here. We will say more about funeral and/or memorial plans in due course.'

Ginny added that a trust has been set up in Schiller's son's name: 'For now, we're taking things one step at a time, supporting Milena and Gabriel as best we can and trying to get our heads around the unimaginable. Please don't send flowers but if anyone wants to make a gesture, we will be setting up Trust for Gabriel and there's a link below.'

The actor rarely shared photos of his family, but in 2018, shortly after his son Gabriel was born, he posted photos of his baby boy after he underwent open heart surgery, writing: 'Two weeks ago he had open heart surgery. And hes back, and hes fighting, and my heart is so full. Its personal, but I want to share it with the world. #GoGabriel.'

Schiller was best known for his role in The Last Kingdom, joining the third season of the historical drama series in 2018 to play the antagonistic ruler Aethelhelm.

The TV star had also made appearances in Doctor Who and starred alongside Harry Potter actress Emma Watson in the Disney live-action version of Beauty and the Beast in 2017.

In 2021 Adrian appeared in episodes of the mystery series Death in Paradise.

The actor's sister Ginny also confirmed the news in a message posted on Schiller's Twitter account, writing that they were focused on supporting Schiller's partner and son

Adrian's X account shared a 2021 photo of the actor with his young son Gabriel as they asked for donations to a trust set up in his son's name

Just prior to his death, Adrian had been starring in an international tour of three-hour play The Lehman Trilogy (pictured in February 2024 in the role)

In 2018 Schiller joined the third season of the historical drama series The Last Kingdom, playing Aethelhelm

The TV star had also made appearances in Doctor Who and starred alongside Harry Potter actress Emma Watson in the Disney live-action version of Beauty and the Beast

His other TV credits include Prime Suspect, in 1992 and 1993, Ghosts, the following year and the TV movie RKO 281 in 1999.

In the noughties Schiller appeared in notable British dramas including The Musketeers, The Devil's Whore, A Touch of Frost, My Family, Judge John Deed and Silent Witness.

His last credited role before he died in an episode of BBC detective series Father Brown in which he played a criminal Drake Underwood in an episode, titled The Father, The Son.

He was also known for his stage work, and last year was cast in The White Factory at Marylebone Theatre.

Just prior to his death, Adrian had been starring in an international tour of three-hour play The Lehman Trilogy.

The official X account for The Lehman Trilogy shared: 'We are deeply saddened and shocked to have lost our company member and friend, Adrian Schiller.'

'Adrian played Henry Lehman in the international production of The Lehman Trilogy. He was a highly respected and much-loved part of the company.'

Friends and colleagues of the actor posted messages on X with actress Tracy-Ann Oberman writing: 'Absolutely gutted to hear'

Schiller is pictured with his Victoria co-star Anna Wilson-Jones, promoting the drama on This Morning in 2016

Rufus Norris, Director of National Theatre, said: 'We are deeply saddened and shocked to have lost our company member and friend, Adrian Schiller. Adrian was a wonderful actor, and the National Theatre had the pleasure of working with him throughout the breadth of his career.

'His recent performance as Henry Lehman in the Australian premiere of The Lehman Trilogy was superb and his presence within the company will be greatly missed.'

'Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time.'

Friends and colleagues of the actor paid tribute, with actress Tracy-Ann Oberman, who starred opposite Adrian in The Merchant Of Venice, writing: 'Absolutely gutted to hear about the sudden passing of @Grumbletwat #AdrianSchiller - the most wonderful actor , ally and mensch. So sorry to hear this news. May your memory be a blessing'.

Tilly Steele, who appeared in Victoria with Adrian, wrote: 'I cannot believe that Adrian Schiller has died. He was a remarkable actor and person.'

'I'm completely in shock and I'm thinking of everyone who knew him and was close to him.'

Screenwriter Sarah Phelps said: 'Oh god, dreadful, dreadful news about Adrian Schiller. Brilliant actor. I used to be his dresser at the RSC and he was lovely and so funny. Heartfelt condolences to all his family and his friends.'

He was also known for his stage work, pictured in Love Labour's Lost at the Open Air Theatre, Regent's Park with Rebecca Johnson in 2001

Pictured playing Ian Dury in Hit Me! at the Leicester Square Theatre in 2009

Director Stephen Unwin posted: 'RIP the wonderful, wondrous, Adrian Schiller.'

Other fans and colleagues also shared their own touching tributes to Adrian.

'I worked with Adrian Schiller and kept in touch with him here. He was a brilliant actor and a brilliant person - kind, funny and socially concerned. I'm heartbroken that he's gone;'

'Sad news about Adrian Schiller. Such a terrific actor and he was on mighty find form in ''The White Factor'' last year. Thoughts with Ginny & all of their family and friends. May he RIP.'
Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont have announced they are divorcing after nine years of marriage.

The pair - who share seven-year-old daughter Elsie Louise - shared the news in a joint statement on Friday, just days after the launch of the fifth series of their comedy show Meet The Richardsons.

The 'at home mockumentary' show about their relationship first aired in 2020, with the couple crediting it for 'helping their off-screen relationship.'

Jon and Lucy began dating in 2013 after meeting through fellow comedian Roisin Conaty, before tying the knot in April 2015 and welcoming their daughter in September the following year.

Recalling their first meeting in her book, Drinking Custard: Diary of a Confused Mum, Lucy said they 'hit it off' straight away.

Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont have announced they are divorcing after nine years of marriage

The pair - who share a daughter Elsie Louise, 7, - shared the news in a joint statement on Friday, just days after the launch of the fifth series of their comedy show Meet The Richardsons

She explained how she had just moved to London to pursue a career in comedy when Roisin invited her to a gig at The Fighting Cocks in Kingston-upon-Thames.

'I felt someone's presence behind me. I nearly fainted; honestly my heart was beating like the clappers as I was sure Jon knew I fancied him,' she wrote.

Speaking in an interview with The Sunday Times, Lucy added: 'It was quite symbolic as we have been fighting like cocks ever since.'

Two weeks after their first meeting at the gig, the duo went on to have their first date, writing in her memoir, she revealed 'something quite weird happened.'

'Jon dropped me off in his car to the train station and we swapped phone numbers,' the comedian wrote. 'Lo and behold, via Bluetooth, on his dashboard in big LED letters flashed 'MY WIFE'. I have never got out of a car so fast.

'I rang my friend Jackie and she told me very calmly that he must be a psychopath and to leave London immediately and come back and live in Hull with her again.'

The pair have starred in 'at home mockumentary' show about their relationship, Meet The Richardsons, since it it first aired in 2020. Its fifth series began on Dave just this week on April 8.

The 'at home mockumentary' show about their relationship first aired in 2020, with the couple crediting it for 'helping their off-screen relationship'

Jon and Lucy began dating in 2013 after meeting through fellow comedian Roisin Conaty (pictured), before tying the knot in April 2015

Two weeks after their first meeting at the gig, the duo went on to have their first date, writing in her memoir, she revealed 'something quite weird happened'

In the show they play 'exaggerated versions of themselves', and make comedic jibes at each other.

The programme saw Lucy nominated for a BAFTA TV award in the female performance in a comedy programme category in 2023.

On Friday, the comedy couple announced they are divorcing after nine years of marriage - just days after the launch of the fifth series.

Jon and Lucy insisted the separation had been 'amicable' as they detailed their priority of putting their child first.

A statement to the PA news agency read: 'After 9 years of marriage, we would like to announce that we have separated.

'We have jointly and amicably made the difficult decision to divorce and go our separate ways.

'As our only priority is managing this difficult transition for our daughter, we would ask that our privacy is respected at this sensitive time to protect her well-being. We will be making no further comment.'

Last year, Lucy confessed that viewers often do not understand that their fighting is not real, saying: 'It's been great but I see comments on social media and people don't seem to realise it's not real...

'I don't henpeck  we wouldn't have lasted this long if I was as mean to him in real life. You don't want to see a smug couple in love, in a nice house, with a stable career and a lovely little child. Who wants to see that?...

'I wasn't doing it if we were going to be like that. We'll show the other side where we're just at each other constantly. It's a more truthful portrayal...

'The world we've got around us is slightly bizarre but I think people still feel like they recognise themselves in it, which is good.'

Lucy spoke in January last year about working with her husband, saying: 'We like working together and enjoy Meet The Richardsons and we really wanted to make something that people could relate to...

'Meet The Richardsons is basically an excuse for us to channel tensions into comedy and you see that in the studio, someone might start saying something thinking they're going to land a blow but as soon as us and the audience start laughing at them, they realise it's all nonsense.'

Lucy also told OK! just last month that the latest series of Meet the Richardsons, which started this week, could be the last one, saying: 'This will probably be the last one, and we're going out on a high.'

Speaking about what they learnt from filming Jon & Lucy's Odd Couples, Lucy went on: 'We've learnt that all couples have beef with each other and have ongoing tensions about something. Everyone's the same.'

Jon continued: 'It's not about whether you have issues or not, it's about how you deal with the issues. There is no perfect couple.

'Michael and Hilary Whitehall were absolutely brutal to each other and it's the lexicon of their marriage now.'

Last year it was confirmed Meet The Richardsons would be renewed for the upcoming fifth season, following its win for Best Comedy at the Broadcast Digital Awards 2022.

Speaking to The Sun at the time, Lucy said: 'Yes, we have another series commissioned...

'The idea for the next series is that we want to do a sitcom and make it a bit like Heartbeat with gags, but because Jon wants to retire soon, he wants to win an award. So he wants the sitcom to be more surreal and abstract...

'So each of us goes and comes up with ideas for our own sitcom, then we take it to a focus group and we have to come back together.'

Last year, Lucy confessed that viewers often do not understand that their fighting is not real, saying: 'It's been great but I see comments on social media and people don't seem to realise it's not real'

A statement to the PA news agency the couple said: 'After 9 years of marriage, we would like to announce that we have separated. We have jointly and amicably made the difficult decision'

The fourth series which aired saw the couple move house and featured guest stars including Ben Elton and Adrian Chiles.

Last month it was revealed that the new series will feature appearance from a host of famous faces including Ben Shephard, Kimberly Wyatt, Lee Mack, Alexander Armstrong, Gregg Wallace, Stephen Mangan, Amanda Abbington, Dick & Dom, Adrian Chiles, Nigel Havers, Cheryl Baker and The Cheeky Girls.

The fifth season was confirmed before the fourth series even began airing.

According to Dave: 'In this series, Lucy's career is turbo-charged by her BAFTA nomination and she's getting offered shows from the very big to the frankly bizarre.

READ MORE: Amanda Abbington launches into a sweary outburst on an episode of Meet The Richardsons Advertisement

'Jon is fine with Lucy's success, he's not competitive at all, and he knows when he's beaten.

'So, while Lucy's busy on Taskmaster, Bake Off and Celebrity Chinese Whispers, Jon is plotting his escape from telly, with one last, lucrative job hosting a new daytime quiz show.

'Meanwhile, at home, a global superstar and her partner move in next door, making it harder than ever to keep up with the neighbours.

'Lucy's turning 40 and she'd really like Jon to go with her to Glastonbury to celebrate. He'll never agree to that. But will they both agree that five series of Meet The Richardsons is more than enough?'

The show first launched on the channel in 2020 with the couple writing it alongside Peter Kay's Car Share scribe Tim Reid.

The couple scored huge praise when they appeared together on Celebrity Gogglebox.

Aside from her work with her husband, Lucy has featured on a number of panel shows including Would I Lie To You?, The Last Leg and Have I Got News For You.

Jon meanwhile is known for his appearances on panel shows and work as a team captain on 8 Out Of 10 Cats.

In 2018 he launched panel show Jon Richardson: Ultimate Worrier, which ran on Dave for two series, and he has previously hosted on BBC Radio 6 Music.
By Kim Se-jeong

A district court in Gwangju has handed down a suspended prison sentence to a man who abandoned his newborn daughter in a baby box in 2016.

According to local news reports, a judge at the Gwangju District Court sentenced the defendant, a civil servant, to six months in prison, suspended for two years, for violating the Child Welfare Act. The defendant was also ordered to attend 40 hours of child abuse prevention classes.

The defendant stood trial on the charge of abandoning the daughter born to a woman with whom he had a relationship in 2016. Both married to other people, the two unwilling parents agreed to travel to Seoul to leave the newborn baby girl in the baby box when she was less than a month old.

The Seoul baby box, which first opened in 2009, is operated by a church group. Approximately 2,100 babies had been abandoned there as of now. Upon arrival, babies are put up for adoption or placed in an orphanage.

The judge was quoted as saying, "The nature of his crime is serious. However, I took into account that he had not committed any similar crime before and that he is showing remorse."
The Golden Bachelor star Gerry Turner has officially filed for divorce from wife Theresa Nist - on the same day they announced their split following a three month marriage.

Gerry, 72, and Theresa, 70, announced the news of their split on Good Morning America on Friday, when they opened up about the reasons for their shock separation.

'Theresa and I have had a number of heart-to-heart conversations, and weve looked closely at our situation, our living situation, so forth and - and weve kind of come to the conclusion mutually that its probably time for us to - dissolve our marriage,' Gerry told host Juju Chang.

In divorce papers obtained by TMZ and filed by Turner on Friday morning in his hometown of Petersburg, Indiana, the star cites an 'irretrievable breakdown' of the marriage as the reason for the split.

In their interview Turner admitted that their decision to separate was motivated in large part by their 'dedication' to their respective families - hinting that this has made it incredibly difficult for them to decide on a place to settle down together.

The Golden Bachelor star Gerry Turner has officially filed for divorce from wife Theresa Nist - on the same day they announced their split following a three month marriage

Gerry, 72, and Theresa, 70, announced the news of their split on Good Morning America this morning, when they opened up about the reasons for their shock separation

Both Gerry, a retired restauranteur from Indiana, and Theresa, a securities professional from New Jersey, have kids from past relationships; he has two daughters and two granddaughters, while she has a son, daughter, and six grandsons.

'The thing that strikes me the most in our conversations, its been how dedicated both of us are to our families,' Gerry explained.

'So we look at these situations and I think we just feel like its best for the happiness of each of us to live apart.'

However, Theresa insisted that the former couple tried their utmost to reach a compromise that would work for both of their families, revealing that they had looked at different locations across the country in the hopes of finding a ideal home to start their new lives together.

'We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at home after home, but we never got to the point where we made that decision,' she said.

'We have received so much love and support from so many people who watched The Golden Bachelor, and I dont think we can tell you how many people told us that it gave them so much hope,' Theresa added. 'We want none of that to change for anybody.'

When asked if they 'fell out of love,' Gerry insisted, 'No. I still love this person. There's no doubt in my mind, I am still in love with her and still root for her every day.'

They added that they were going to have to 'give their rings back,' but that they were happy they could keep 'the memories' that they shared.

In divorce papers obtained by TMZ and filed by Turner on Friday morning in his hometown of Petersburg, Indiana, the star cites an 'irretrievable breakdown' of the marriage as the reason for the split

'We've kind of come to the conclusion mutually that its probably time for us to - dissolve our marriage,' Gerry said during an interview with GMA today

It seems as though the couple struggled to decide on a place to settle down together, as they were still living in separate homes three months after their nuptials. Gerry's home is seen

Gerry was living at his lake house in Northern Indiana, while Theresa remained in her house in New Jersey (seen), where she'd been living with her family

On Good Morning America, Gerry admitted that their decision to separate was motivated in large part by their 'dedication' to their respective families

Gerry has two daughters and two granddaughters, while Theresa has a son, daughter, and six grandsons. They're seen with some of their adult kids

The couple met on the first season of the Golden Bachelor, which premiered late last year, and Gerry proposed during the show's finale.

They then tied the knot in January during a televised wedding, with Theresa gushing in her vows, 'I promise to be your calm in a storm, to comfort you when you're sad, to laugh with you when you're happy, and just stick with you throughout it all.'

In an interview with GMA after the wedding, they insisted that they had 'found their person.'

Gerry and Theresa's shock announcement comes just days after it was revealed the pair were still living in separate homes three months after their nuptials.

Furthermore, TMZ reported that the married couple were actually residing in separate states - with Gerry living at his $637,000 lake house in Northern Indiana, while Theresa remained in her house in her $568,000 New Jersey home, where she'd been living with her family.

Theresa insisted that the former couple tried their utmost to reach a compromise that would work for both of their families, revealing that they had looked at different locations across the country in the hopes of finding a ideal home to start their new lives together

'The problem is, Theresa cant just pick up and leave her job, and she has family in New Jersey,' a source told Life & Style recently. 'Initially, they thought Gerry could move in with her but that didnt happen.'

Back in December 2023, Gerry admitted that finding a place to live was 'a big problem' for them.

At the time, he told People that they were planning to buy a house in Charleston, South Carolina, together - but it seems that never happened.

'All of a sudden its like, theres a big problem that is gone,' he said at the time. 'The issue of compromising on where to live and how to reconcile families and all of that is, its no longer an issue.'

Gerry pulled on the hearts of millions when he appeared on the show, as he was presented as a loving retired restaurateur who had not had a single date since his wife of 45 years, Toni, suddenly passed away from an infection in 2017.

But an investigation by The Hollywood Reporter released after the finale quickly shattered that reputation.

The publication reported that he had a professional and personal history that did not match with the persona of a grieving man who hadn't gone on a first date in decades.

Instead, it claimed that he had a secret past that included a three-year relationship after the death of his wife and various blue-collar jobs.

He reportedly dated a woman named Carolyn, who is 14 years his junior and claimed he dumped her because she gained 10 pounds.

In addition, his LinkedIn profile showed that he had not owned a restaurant since 1985, when he sold his Mr Quick hamburger franchise in Iowa, where had worked his way up since high school.

Gerry was presented as a loving retired restaurateur on the show, who had not had a single date since his wife of 45 years, Toni, suddenly passed away from an infection in 2017

But an investigation released after the finale quickly shattered that reputation, claiming he dated a woman for three years after his wife died. He's seen with his late wife

In addition, his LinkedIn profile showed that he had not owned a restaurant since 1985, when he sold his Mr Quick hamburger franchise in Iowa (seen)

Since then, he worked various sales and management jobs in the meat industry, per his resume on the website. He's seen in front of his lake house

Since then, he worked various sales and management jobs in the meat industry, per his resume on the website - despite the show claiming he had been retired for decades. He also worked installing hot tubs and as a maintenance man in Iowa.

It was during his time as a maintenance man at the Vera French Mental Health Center in Davenport that he met Carolyn, but the two did not get together until two months after his wife died.

Carolyn told The Hollywood Reporter the two began dating after Gerry called her following his wife's death to ask for help donating some clothes to charity.

She claimed she quit her job to move in with him in July 2018, but things soon went south, as his demands began to emerge.

For example, she alleged that he he soon informed Carolyn she would have to pay about $1,000 a month for her share of expenses, which she managed to negotiate down to $850.

Gerry was reportedly so concerned with dividing costs that Carolyn would pay for her meals at restaurants beforehand so when the check came, he could pretend he was paying the whole tab.

The reality star was also allegedly obsessed with cleanliness and demanded Carolyn make the bed every morning before they had breakfast.

The romance ended in late 2019, when, according to Carolyn, Gerry said he would not be taking her to his high school reunion because of her weight.

The Golden Bachelor then allegedly told Carolyn she had to be out of the house by January 1, 2020, according to THR, which reviewed emails and texts between the former couple and spoke to people who witnessed the relationship.

Carolyn fell down the stairs while she packed and required emergency surgery - but said Gerry accused her of using the fall as an excuse to extend her stay at his home and claimed she was planning on suing him over it.

He reportedly wouldn't even let her stay at the home while she finished the two weeks of notice she had to give at her new job in Indiana, forcing her to stay at a hotel, she claimed.

When asked if the scandal 'played in' to their split, Theresa insisted, 'No. Gerry had already discussed that with me and explained it before the report was ever released. So we were good with that.'

People quickly rushed to social media to share their thoughts on the divorce - and many admitted that they were 'not surprised.'

'Oh no surprise there,' one person wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Another agreed, 'Hate to say it but not really... Told ya so.'

'Are we surprised?' someone else asked, while a fourth person simply stated, 'Called this one.'

Others said they 'understood' their situation, with a fifth tweet reading, 'Most women in her 70s would tell you, "My grandkids and kids are everything." I wouldn't move away from my family for anything. Especially a man. Nope.'

A sixth said, 'At that age, who wants to give up their life and family to go and live with some stranger that just came into your life? You dont have much time left. Spend it with family.'
ITV have reportedly shelved their big-budget musical show Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream after just one series.

The talent show, which was filmed in Corfu last spring, succeeded in finding two theatre stars to take on the roles of Sophie and Sky in the beloved West End musical, which celebrated its 25th Anniversary last week.

The winners, Stevie Doc and Tobias Turley, made their debut performances at the end of January and are still wowing audiences every night.

However, according to The Sun, there are no plans for another series, with host Zoe Ball sharing on Friday she would not be jetting back to Greece.

It was reportedly hoped that the series could return with a search surrounding a new musical, along with the same celebrity judging panel.

ITV have reportedly shelved their big-budget musical show Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream after just one series

Speaking on her BBC Radio 2 show, Zoe said: 'Were not going back to Corfu. This time last year we were packing our bags to go there but - and its a shame.'

Guest Alan Carr, who was a judge on the show, added: 'I loved doing that show.'

A representative for ITV told MailOnline: 'Mamma Mia I Have A Dream was commissioned to celebrate 25 years of the musical, so was only ever intended to be a one off series.

'The show sought to find a new Sophie and Sky, who are now starring in the West End musical.'

The show aimed to replicate the format of similar BBC shows, such as How Do You Solve a Problem like Maria?, Any Dream Will Do, I'd Do Anything and Over the Rainbow, with each show focused on a different musical.

I Have A Dream saw 14 contestants, seven men and seven women, battle it out to play the coveted roles of Sophie and Sky in the West End show.

Leading the search was Mamma Mia's creator Judy Craymer, and she was joined by Alan, Glee and theatre star Amber Riley, West End performer Samantha Barks and popstar Jessie Ware.

The final, broadcast live from London's Novello Theatre, was watched by 1.9 million viewers, but the entire series struggled against rival Strictly Come Dancing.

The talent show, which was filmed in Corfu last spring, succeeded in finding two theatre stars to take on the roles of Sophie and Sky in the beloved West End musical

Following the final, contestant Zachkiel Smith, landed a role in the ensemble for Back To The Future the musical, while Desmonda Cathabel is starring in the Aladdin UK and Ireland tour.

During the series, viewers shared their bewilderment at one key element of the show.

While people watching at home could understand why Samantha and Amber had been booked for the judging gig, they were less sure about Alan and Jessie.

Their thoughts included: 'As for the #MammaMia judges, I get Samantha Barks and Amber Riley, theyve both done West End theatre, but Ive never heard of "pop star" Jessie Ware and whilst I love Alan Carr?'

'Ok, so I get Amber Riley - yes, Jessie Ware - yes, Samantha Barks - yes...but Alan Carr?? I don't get it?

However, there are no plans for another series, with host Zoe Ball sharing on Friday she would not be jetting back to Greece

'I love Alan as a comedian but he has nothing to bring to the judging panel? Very bizarre choice;'

'Swap Alan Carr (why, seriously) for Elaine Paige, and then we have a dream! #MammaMia #IHaveADream;'

'Get all the judge choices bar Alan Carr; Amber Riley & Samantha Barks... I get. Jesse Ware & Alan Carr... Not so sure.

'But I'm living for it either way. #MammaMia; #IHaveADream talented industry judges... And Alan Carr.'
The Blair Witch Project star Joshua Leonard has slammed Lionsgate over '25 years of disrespect' after it was announced a reboot of the iconic 1999 film is in the works.

Leonard, 48, who used his real name in the found-footage horror film, slammed Lionsgate on Instagram and accused the production company of ignoring his request for a charity screening of the film.

He wrote: 'GOING PUBLIC w/this and would appreciate the amplification!' with screenshots of the news featuring his and his costars' images.

'So, this is MY face on a press release for a film being made by two major studios - both I've worked for, both I respect,' he wrote. 'The WEIRD PART is that I didn't know anything about it until a friend sent me a "congrats" screenshot yesterday.

'My frustration is compounded b/c I've been trying to get @lionsgate to engage for over a month about a BWP charity screening I'm putting together for @opositivefest to raise money for artists without healthcare, and NO ONE will get back to me.

The Blair Witch Project star Joshua Leonard has slammed Lionsgate over '25 years of disrespect' after it was announced a reboot of the iconic 1999 film is in the works

Leonard said the announcement came after 'NO ONE will get back to me' at Lionsgate in his attempts to host a Blair Witch charity screening for O Positive Fest

'And yes, Ive been thinking a lot about this time, after seeing my BWP collaborators recently and sharing memories sweet AND f***ed-up ones,' added Leonard.

Written and directed by Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sanchez, the movie followed three college filmmakers (Leonard, Heather Donahue and Michael Williams) into the woods of Burkittsville, Maryland as they investigated the local myth of the titular witch.

As the film was first marketed as a true story about three kids who went missing, its viral success led many to believe Leonard, Donahue, 49, and Williams, 50, had actually died.

Donahue even had to issue a statement to the New York Times that she was still alive after someone marked her as deceased on IMDb, negatively impacting her career.

Leonard went on to claim that after the movie's original distributor Artisan boasted about having 'the most profitable independent film ever,' they told the cast they 'were actually losing money from marketing expenses... so WE might wind up owing THEM $.'

The Blair Witch Project made $248 million worldwide on a $60,000 budget after Artisan bought the rights for less than $2 million.

And since they used their real names in the movie, Leonard wrote that 'the studio claimed copyright,' adding: 'We had to take them to federal court to win OUR NAMES back.'

Leonard explained that although it was previously reported that they were paid out $4 million dollars in the lawsuit, they only actually received $300,000 'and NEVER saw another dime.'

'After buying a car and paying off his student loans, Mike was back moving furniture within 12 months of the release, while still on magazine covers,' he added.

Leonard went on to claim that after the movie's original distributor Artisan boasted about having 'the most profitable independent film ever,' they told the cast they 'were actually losing money from marketing expenses... so WE might wind up owing THEM $'

And since they used their real names in the movie, Leonard wrote that 'the studio claimed copyright,' adding: 'We had to take them to federal court to win OUR NAMES back'

Leonard explained that although it was previously reported that they were paid out $4 million dollars in the lawsuit, they only actually received $300,000 'and NEVER saw another dime'

'There were many factors that made BWP a success: timing, marketing, etc. But there was also the FACT that us weirdos got together, with virtually no resources, AND MADE A FILM THAT WORKED! Can we just go on record and say that the film itself is a huge part of why were still talking about it 25 years later?'

Leonard continued, 'I'm so proud of our little punk-rock movie, and I LOVE the fans who keep the flames burning. But at this point, its 25 years of disrespect from the folks who've pocketed the lions share (pun intended) of the profits from OUR work, and that feels both icky and classless.'

DailyMail.com has contacted Lionsgate for comment.

Donahue, who has changed her name to Rei Hance since making the movie, shared the post to her Instagram Story in support.

Williams also shared to his story, writing: 'Y'all wanna see some s***? @thejoshualeonard @reihance love you guys.'

Leonard's post comes after Blumhouse producer Jason Blum (Paranormal Activity, Halloween Ends, Five Nights at Freddy's) announced Wednesday at CinemaCon that he's teaming up with Lionsgate for a 'new generation' of the Blair Witch.

'Its 25 years of disrespect from the folks who've pocketed the lions share (pun intended) of the profits from OUR work, and that feels both icky and classless,' added Leonard

Following an ill-received sequel from Artisan in 2000, Lionsgate released another sequel in 2016, which earned mixed reviews

'I'm a huge admirer of The Blair Witch Project, which brought the idea of found footage horror to mainstream audiences and became a true cultural phenomenon,' he said.

'I don't think there would have been a Paranormal Activity had there not first been a Blair Witch,' added Blum, 55. 'So, this feels like a truly special opportunity and I'm excited to see where it leads.'

It was followed by Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 in 2000 which received negative reviews from critics and grossed a worldwide total of $47.7 million.

In 2016 Blair Witch was released which follows John, the brother of Heather Donahue.

He decides to head back to Burkittsville, though this time the film was actually shot in Canada instead of Maryland, after discovering footage from the original film.
Ordinarily, consumer electronics must be returned within 90 days of purchase

A viral photo showing a person returning an old TV from the early 2000s to Costco has again put the spotlight on the retailer's much-loved return policy.

The image shows a vintage Samsung television sitting on an iconic orange Costco flat cart in a store in Pennsylvania.

Costco's return policy hit the headlines in January when a video emerged of a woman returning her two-and-a-half-year couch without a receipt.

At the time, customers and even staff confirmed that the retailer's generous policy allowed most items to be returned at any time.

But the return of a two-decade-old TV is another matter that has left even Costco fans stunned. One wrote under the viral post on Reddit: 'This is WILD. 22 years later who just decides to roll in and return a TV?'

The viral image showed a Samsung projection TV from the early 2000s on a flat cart in a Costco being processed for a refund

Electronic items now need to be returned to Costco within 90 days but that was not the case until 2007. Pictured is a news story published by the LA Times in 2007

The original poster replied: 'Y'know, after 20 years, I felt like this just didn't work for our space.'

Referring to the size of the TV, which has a base with a large speaker and is much deeper than the flat screen sets most people have today, they added: 'Probably took 20 years just to find someone to help haul it out of their living room.'

The user that posted the photo, which went viral on the r/Costco subreddit, told DailyMail.com they were not sure whether the refund was issued and that they overheard associates suggesting the original purchase was made in 2002.

The model appears to be a rear projection Samsung HCL552W, which was available in the US market in 2002.

More on Costco's return policy Read our guide to Costco's famous return policy - which lets you return most things bought years ago even if you have lost the receipt Costco worker: here's why our return policy is so good (and why the customer who returned a two-and-a-half-year-old couch did nothing wrong) Advertisement

'I didn't get to see the person(s) that made the actual return,' the user wrote in a reply to the image.

'I just saw the associates processing. Their response was "falls within guidelines" along with a large shrug.'

The owner of the old TV would have had a strong case for returning it.

Although Costco currently has a policy whereby electronics need to be returned within 90 days of their purchase, that was not the case until 2007 - after the television was supposedly sold.

In a news story published by the LA Times in February 2007, titled 'Costco halts liberal electronics return policy,' it was reported that Costco had been losing 'tens of millions of dollars' a year on returned consumer electronics, especially TVs.

After the story about the sofa being returned in January, DailyMail.com published a full summary of the Costco return policy.

Almost all items, with some exceptions, can be returned at any time - even without a receipt.

This was backed up by a former worker on the Costco returns desk, who said the retailer maintains a list of everything a customer has ever bought and returned.

That means they can tell when the lenient policy is being abused, and also that members may not need to show a receipt as proof of purchase.

A TikToker who worked at Costco for six years in the returns department gave an insight into why the store has such a relaxed return policy

Costco is famous for its liberal return policy, which still allows members to return most items at any time. Pictured is a warehouse in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania

It is not clear whether or not Costco issued a refund for the vintage Samsung TV. Pictured is a member of staff directing customers at a store in Teterboro, New Jersey

When Costco changed its policy around electronics in 2007, the LA Times interviewed a police officer who was in the process of returning a plasma TV he bought in 2004 because its colors were fading.

The warehouse in Glendale issued a refund, 'no questions asked'.

'It was awesome. It was great,' he said. 'It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that someone was going to abuse it eventually.'

A separate report in 2007 published by the Wall Street Journal also covered the end of the 'unlimited grace period to return [electronic] purchases for a full refund.'

It noted that 'electronics goods bought before the implementation of the new 90-day policy still can be returned at any time.'

So fortunately for the owner of the vintage Samsung spotted in Pennsylvania this week, if the television was purchased before 2007 they are theoretically eligible for a refund.

DailyMail.com wrote to Costco for clarification as to whether a refund for the television was issued but did not immediately receive a response.
Another Trump presidency would see the winding back of 'burdensome regulations' on Wall Street introduced in the wake of the financial crisis, according to a new report.

If the former president were elected to reenter the White House, his administration would also be expected to ease EV mandates and clamp down on environmental, social and governance (ESG) investments.

Those tend to see money going into issues aimed at helping tackle climate change and helping minority groups.

Although Trump has yet to announce staff or key policies, according to the report, published on Friday by Reuters, experts and his allies are preparing and pitching rewrites that would reduce the power of various regulators.

Trump cuts a red tape while speaking about deregulation at the White House in December 2017. Experts and those close to him say another presidency will see continued deregulation

Since assuming the Oval Office, President Biden himself has taken steps to unwind some of the regulatory changes made during Trump's term

Carmakers will eventually stop making full gas-powered successors to the beloved muscle cars of the 1960s and 1970s (Pictured: Steve McQueen in Bullitt) - but Trump could change rules to keep gas cars in production longer

A spokesperson for the Trump campaign told Reuters that the Biden administration was responsible for a 'massive push to increase burdensome regulations, especially on our energy and auto industries.'

Since Biden took office, he has overseen the introduction of various regulations designed to catalyze the uptake of electric vehicles.

Notably, in March the Environmental Protection Agency introduced a rule that the majority of new passenger cars and light trucks sold in the US need to be electric or hybrids by 2032.

Other sources close to Trump said he was likely to target ESG - one described as somebody 'who regularly speaks with him on economic matters' said he would be 'sure' to 'go after all of this climate change stuff.'

In the final months of his presidency, Trump pushed to ban retirement plans from considering ESG when making investments.

Then in 2022, President Biden's administration reversed restrictions imposed under Trump - and the Labor Department announced a rule ordering government agencies to assess the impact of pension investments on the climate.

Michael Faulkender, a former Trump Treasury official, told Reuters that ESG is 'too much in the eye of the beholder' and that investors should be focused on returns - plain and simple.

'It can and has been used to deviate from the fiduciary duty that money managers have to their clients,' he said.

A source close to Trump has said if he makes it back into the White House he will be 'sure' to 'go after all of this climate change stuff'

At least eight states are planning to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars in the next decade - and others are considering joining them

Another legacy of Trump's presidency was the winding down of certain Obama-era rules introduced as part of the Dodd-Frank Act, passed in the wake of the financial crisis.

It imposed new liquidity requirements on financial institutions and mandated 'stress testing' on banks to ensure they could withstand economic uncertainty.

Faulkender has also objected to stress testing, arguing that if all institutions are made to pass the same tests they will all have the same vulnerabilities, which could cause problems all run into the same problem at the same time.

Another rule to come out of the Dodd-Frank Act was the Volcker Rule, which aimed to limit banks from engaging in proprietary trading - where they invest for their own gain as opposed to that of their clients.

Critics argued the rule was complex and difficult to implement. They also claimed it created compliance problems for banks and could impact their viability to a critical degree.

After years of lobbying by investment banks like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley, in 2019 regulators eased those restrictions.

Since then, Democrats - including Sen. Elizabeth Warren - have been pushing to reinstate some of those regulations. Many used the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank last year as ammunition to make the case.

The fate of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau may also be in the balance. The agency was created 12 years ago as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act

After years of lobbying by investment banks like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley, in 2019 the Volcker Rule was amended. Pictured is JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon

'These threats never should have been allowed to materialize,' Warren told the Senate in March last year. 'Now, we must prevent them from occurring again by reversing the dangerous bank deregulation of the Trump era.'

Another important issue on the cards is the future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) - an agency born out of the Dodd-Frank Act 12 years ago.

The CFPB is designed to protect consumers against financial institutions and the question of its existence has been politically fraught.

Robert Bowes, a former Trump appointee to the Department of Housing and Urban Development has called for its abolition.

He told Reuters he was 'very concerned about the disastrous bank regulation and economic policies by the Biden administration.'
Aligning with U.S. on security issues further compromises Japan's credibility as a peaceful country

Xinhua) 11:20, April 12, 2024

TOKYO, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday held talks with U.S. President Joe Biden during a visit to Washington, agreeing to upgrade bilateral security treaty and deepen cooperation in military and other fields.

They announced new initiatives on technology and defense, including an upgrade of allied command-and-control arrangements for American and Japanese armed forces, new investments and partnerships on space, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, semiconductors and clean energy, according to U.S. media reports.

Analysts warn that the above developments will see Japan further relax its pacifist establishment and enhance militarization, fuel tensions and confrontation in the Asia-Pacific region, which will not only undermine regional peace and security, but also inevitably backfire on its own interests.

POLITICAL CALCULATION

Kishida's high-profile U.S. trip, in the eyes of the Japanese public, bears the intention of salvaging his support rate by scoring diplomatic points.

Reports from multiple local media outlets showed that approval ratings for Kishida's cabinet has remained in the range of 20-30 percent for five consecutive months, near the ultra-low danger zone for quite some time.

A monthly opinion poll conducted by national broadcaster NHK showed Monday that the approval rate for the Kishida cabinet dropped by 2 points to 23 percent.

While the recent slush fund scandals of multiple factions of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) have become a major headache for Kishida, soaring prices and weak economic vitality have also become important factors for the public to oppose his cabinet.

With the LDP head election scheduled for September approaching, Kishida urgently needs to gain political credits to elevate current sluggish public approval.

Although it is widely believed in the Japanese society that exaggerating external threats and strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance are usual means to woo public support, people may not always buy it.

"Kishida is putting the cart before the horse by focusing on the United States regardless of the troubled domestic situation," one netizen wrote on social media.

BALLOONING MILITARY AMBITION

During Kishida's visit, Japan and the United States intend to carry out "the largest upgrade in more than 60 years" of the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty, reorganizing the U.S. Military Command in Japan in conjunction with the "Integrated Command" that Japan plans to establish at the end of 2024 to unify the command of the Army, Navy and Air Self-Defense Forces, according to Japanese media reports.

The two sides are also expected to reach a series of agreements on defense equipment cooperation, including the establishment of a new consultation mechanism to discuss joint research, development and production of defense equipment, and allowing large U.S. ships to be repaired in Japan.

National news agency Kyodo reported that building a Japan-U.S. low-Earth orbit satellite network, intercepting hypersonic gliding vehicles, and strengthening technical cooperation among Japan, the United States and Australia on unmanned wingmen will be included in the Japan-U.S. joint statement.

Analysts here point out that such actions would become another step in Japan's loosening restraints on its military, as it would help the Japanese Self-Defense Forces further strengthen their command and joint operations with the U.S. military, and help Japan enhance its defense industry and strike capabilities.

Japan's LDP has long hoped to get rid of Article 9 of the pacifist post-war Constitution, which restricts the development of the country's military forces, and has continued to break taboos through small changes. Recently, Japan has been making frequent moves on the military front, including significantly increasing its defense outlays and strengthening the so-called "counterstrike capability" or "enemy base strike capabilities."

In late March, the Japanese government approved the revised guidelines of the "three principles on transfer of defense equipment and technology" in the latest move away from the country's postwar pacifist principles. The contentious decision marked another major shift in the country's security policy by allowing Japan to export lethal weapons it coproduces to third countries for the first time.

Takeo Akiba, secretary general of Japan's National Security Secretariat, said in an article published recently by the Washington Post that Japan's policy of not promoting arms exports to other countries "has proved increasingly unsuitable" and an "epic change" is underway in the country's security strategy.

Washington supports Japan relaxing military regulations out of its own strategic interests. Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun reported that Biden will give "full affirmation and praise" to Japan's recent military moves at the Japan-U.S. summit. It is obvious that Japan is taking advantage of the U.S. support to speed up loosening its postwar military restraints.

Regarding Japan's recent military gestures, another Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun commented that "Japan's image as a peaceful country is being questioned."

Atsushi Koketsu, an emeritus professor at Yamaguchi University of Japan, said that Japan's diplomacy and defense are increasingly deviating from the pacifist constitution.

THREAT TO PEACE

According to Kyodo News, a joint statement from the trilateral summit of Kishida, Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday will touch upon the security partnership among the United States, Japan, Britain, Australia and the Philippines.

On Monday, the defense ministers of the United States, Britain and Australia issued a joint statement that they are considering cooperation with Japan on AUKUS Pillar II advanced capability projects.

Lu Yaodong, deputy director of the Institute of Japanese Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that Japan embraces the U.S. global strategy in many aspects. Militarily, Japan has expanded the coverage of the Japan-U.S. alliance from East Asia to the world. Economically, Japan has been cooperating with America in "decoupling and delinking" from China and building a "small yard, high fence."

Currently, America regards China as a "strategic competitor" and pursues the so-called "Indo-Pacific Strategy" in the Asia-Pacific region, attempting to draw regional countries into a small circle and using camp confrontation to contain and suppress China. Meanwhile, Japan is utilized as the most important ally in promoting the U.S. strategy.

Japanese Ambassador to the United States Shigeo Yamada said publicly in Washington on Monday that the leaders of the two countries share the same view on the overall concept of relations with China.

William Jones, a former White House correspondent for U.S. newsmagazine Executive Intelligence Review, said that Biden is trying to use Kishida's state visit and the trilateral summit to consolidate the so-called "Washington-Tokyo-Manila axis," with Japan being the most "loyal" U.S. follower.

Analysts worldwide believe that the Asia-Pacific region is a highland for peaceful development and common prosperity and should not become a chess game among major powers. In exchange for the U.S. support in untying military constraints, Japan intensively engages in camp confrontation siding with Washington, which not only seriously endangers regional peace and stability, but also ultimately undermines Japan's own security and development.

Stopping militarization and promoting friendly relations with neighboring countries are the most favorable security policies for Japan, Koketsu said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The foreign ministry plans to carry out an on-site investigation into the alleged power abuse of the Korean ambassador to China, Chung Jae-ho, against a staff member, diplomatic sources said Friday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to send a team of investigators to Beijing this weekend and carry out a two-week probe to find facts behind the allegation, according to the sources.

Chung is accused of verbally harassing and treating the embassy official in an arrogant and authoritarian manner, a practice called "gapjil" in Korean.

In a statement sent to correspondents in China earlier, Chung said media reports on the case are based on a "one-sided claim," adding he will refrain from further elaborating on the case at this stage as an investigation is set to take place.

Chung has been maintaining his duties, including chairing weekly meetings, even after the allegation came to the surface. The ambassador, however, canceled the regular monthly briefing with correspondents on April 1.

Chung, a former professor of Seoul National University, was named ambassador to Beijing in June 2022, as the first envoy to China under the President Yoon Suk Yeol administration. (Yonhap)
The hope of seeing Somalia turn the page on three decades of stagnation is dwindling. The country, which in December 2023 obtained an agreement to reduce its debt, the lifting of the thirty-year-old arms embargo and its integration into the regional organization of the African Community. East (EAC), is once again bent under crises. The deterioration of the security situation and the secessionist risk, in particular, threaten the fragile successes achieved by President Hassan Cheikh Mohamoud, in power since May 2022.

The major armed offensive carried out for two years against the Chabab is stalling, due to a lack of military resources. The jihadist group affiliated with Al-Qaeda, which has terrorized the country for two decades, still controls large swaths of territory in the South. Since the military debacle of summer 2023, land operations have become rare. Shabab is taking advantage of the tensions [linked to the regional elections scheduled for November] to reorganize and prepare the offensive on certain towns in Galguduud [central region] that they recently lost, says the NGO Armed Conflict Location

Struggling with the Islamist threat and unable to combat it alone, the government asked the African Union (AU) on April 3 to create a new peacekeeping mission. The current force, Atmis, made up of around 17,000 Ugandan, Djiboutian, Ethiopian, Kenyan and Burundian soldiers, was initially scheduled to leave in December 2024, after seventeen years of presence. It will be replaced by a new force intended to protect the countrys key infrastructure and train the army. The future mission should, according to several sources, scale down due to the reluctance of European donors to continue to finance alone the longest peacekeeping force on the continent.

Sharing with Mogadishu the fear of a security vacuum, the AU accepted the idea, which will be debated at the United Nations in May. The Somali army is not yet able to generate enough soldiers to fight Al-Shabaab and control territories at the same time. Without our support, it is heading for disaster, underlines a diplomat from the pan-African institution, on condition of anonymity. Beyond securing infrastructure, Atmis today participates in Somali military operations by offering air and artillery support.

Tensions with Ethiopia

Mogadishu does not want to see the halt in military operations against jihadist insurgents as an admission of weakness. We were slowed down by the big floods in the fall and the tensions with Ethiopia, claims an advisor to the Somali presidency. Indeed, Mogadishu and Addis Ababa are experiencing an unprecedented diplomatic crisis since the maritime agreement signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland in January to obtain Ethiopian access to the sea  which violates its territorial sovereignty, according to Mogadishu. On April 4, Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador, accusing its neighbor of interfering in its internal affairs.

However, these diplomatic tensions are not enough to explain Somali procrastination. The national army took advantage of the popular uprising of certain clans against the Chabab to go on the offensive in 2022, but since the civilian militias disengaged, the government is no longer moving forward, notes Samira Gaid, an independent analyst . The priority today seems to be more about political politics than military objectives for the government, adds Ahmed Ahmed, researcher at the Somali Public Agenda research institute, citing in particular the upcoming regional elections and the revision constitutional.

Indeed, President Hassan Cheikh Mohamoud is reforming the Somali federal model with forceps. The current constitutional revision, which intends to centralize powers in the hands of the executive and establish universal suffrage, is not to the taste of certain regions and clans, who fear being marginalized in the new arrangement. The semi-autonomous province of Puntland (north) announced on March 31 that it no longer recognized the institutions of the federal state. The Puntland authorities, who collect their own tax and are not involved in the fight against Al-Shabaab, claim to have their own government until further notice.

With the defection of Puntland and the return of piracy off the Somali coast, headwinds are accumulating for Hassan Cheikh Mohamoud, already absorbed by the diplomatic crisis with Ethiopia and the Chabab insurgency. It has fewer and fewer levers to act, faces a reinvigorated opposition and does not control even half of its territory, summarizes a Western diplomat. At this stage, the Somali presidents main asset lies in his external support (Turkey, United States, United Arab Emirates and European Union), which continues for the moment to finance the difficult reforms initiated by his administration.
The white wide-body aircraft adorned with the Russian flag landed on Wednesday April 10 at Niamey airport, filmed by Russian state media cameras. Plunged into the darkness of the Nigerien night and under the deafening noise of the planes engines, the reporter from the Russian press agency RIA Novosti comments on the arrival of the first soldiers of the Africa Corps in the country, around a hundred men who officially sign the rapprochement between Moscow and the junta led by Abdourahamane Tiani.

This means that Russia is returning to Africa, he says, even though Moscow is already present from Libya to Sudan, from the Sahel to the Central African Republic. After Mali and Burkina Faso, the third Sahelian country to be led by putschist soldiers further assumes its membership in the pro-Russian camp in West Africa.

The arrival of the Ilyushin Il-76 was revealed twenty-four hours later by Nigerien state television, which specified that it had on board the latest generation of military equipment and instructors from the Ministry of Defense. defense responsible in particular for installing an anti-aircraft defense system. Broadcasting images of the head of the junta, the state media specifies that this arrival follows a historic telephone interview between Abdourahamane Tiani and Vladimir Putin on March 26. The latest signal of an intense rapprochement between the two countries.

Call of the foot

Feared by Westerners, this shift had been taking shape since the end of 2023. In December, Niamey welcomed for the first time a Russian official in the person of the powerful deputy minister of defense, Colonel General Younous-bek Evkourov. The two countries then signed a secret defense protocol for the strengthening of security cooperation. A month and a half later, the head of the Nigerien transitional government, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, at the head of a large ministerial delegation, visited Russia before going to Turkey, Iran and Serbia.

In March, the head of the Nigerien junta sycophantic congratulations to Vladimir Putin for his brilliant re-election and his brilliant victory in the presidential election  without a strong opponent, the Russian leader granted himself a fifth term with 87% of the votes. voices  sounded like a call of the foot. Niger, which is waging a historic struggle for its sovereignty and development, knows that it can count on your personal commitment and that of the Russian Federation to succeed in its fight, the Nigerien press release continued.

The arrival of the Africa Corps in Niger marks the continued continued expansion of Russia in the region, backed by the institutionalization of the Alliance of Sahel States [AES, a new entity which brings together Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger], over which Moscow exercises significant influence, analyzes researcher Maxime Audinet, specialist in Russian influence at the Strategic Research Institute of the Military School (Irsem). We are witnessing the incarnation of the post-Yevgeny Prigojine Russian presence in the Sahel, orchestrated by Russian military intelligence (GRU) and the Ministry of Defense, which are trying to regain control of Wagners legacy in Africa. 

Died in August 2023 in the crash of his plane, the boss of the Russian paramilitary company, who had been the architect of Wagners expansion in Africa, welcomed the putsch in Niger in July. In an audio recording broadcast on social networks, he was heard hailing the fall of pro-French president Mohamed Bazoum, which he said was nothing other than the struggle of the Nigerien people against the colonizers who are trying to impose their rules of life on him. In Niamey, demonstrators who rejoiced at the overthrow of Mohamed Bazoum  still sequestered by the junta eight and a half months later  brandished flags in the colors of Russia.

Fools Bargain

The AES is now one of Moscows privileged areas of influence in Africa. Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, three countries prey to jihadist groups and now in the hands of putschists, have announced their exit from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and have all broken their alliances with France, before concluding military partnerships with Russia, supposed to allow them to better fight against terrorism. A promise that they have not managed to achieve for the moment: in each country, the number of attacks and victims has increased in recent months.

According to Maxime Audinet, Niger seems at this stage to be heading down the Burkinabe path, marked by military training and the constitution of a praetorian guard model supported by an informational influence system responsible for protecting and legitimizing the junta , rather than on the deployment of soldiers on the ground to fight against terrorist attacks, as in Mali.

Before welcoming the Russian soldiers, Niger had in turn severed ties with its main Western partners. First with France, whose junta had demanded the departure of 1,500 soldiers and the ambassador as soon as it took power. The United States, despite its much more conciliatory tone, ended up also being asked to leave the country.

On March 16, Niamey considered that the American presence was illegal and denounced with immediate effect the military cooperation agreement signed with Washington in 2012. A fools bargain, added the putschists on Sunday April 7. Washington must now close the Agadez base, where drones and 1,100 soldiers are mainly responsible for intelligence and surveillance missions.

Germany still has around a hundred soldiers in Niger, engaged in special forces training. Around 300 Italian soldiers are also in the country as part of bilateral cooperation. In November, Niamey ended its main cooperation with the European Union (EU) by repealing the 2015 law on migrant smuggling. The increase in migration to Europe via Niger immediately began to rise again. One more reason to worry the EU and an additional means of pressure for Niamey in its standoff against the West.
Silicon Valley is super excited about India, whose leadership has shown a commitment towards entrepreneurship, Anita Manwani, TiE president has said.

The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Silicon Valley is a nonprofit organisation in the US devoted to entrepreneurs in various industries.

I am super excited and I think Silicon Valley is super excited because we have at the helm of Indias leadership a clear commitment to one entrepreneurship to open business with initiatives like the GIFT city, with initiatives that are making investments and repatriation of funds back to the United States, I would say a little easier than what it was before, Manwani told PTI in an interview.

So, these are all initiatives that are truly going to enhance the increasing activity in the corridor with India. This is Indias decade, and its Indias decade to lose because India is poised for winning innings here. We are all rooting for the leadership, Manwani said in response to a question.

A seasoned corporate executive and entrepreneur, Manwani is one of 80 women recognised in the US for their technology leadership, and top 100 Women of influence in Silicon Valley.

She is also the founder and CEO of Carobar Business Solutions, reLIMS.

Manwani said she was very impressed listening to the leaders speak at the India Conclave in New Delhi recently.

It is really heartwarming to also see that the leaders are not just concerned about education and funding and entrepreneurship and technology, but theyre also making their mark globally, both in terms of helping wherever help is needed, she said.

During international crises, whether it is floods or other kinds of activities, India is stepping up and truly behaving like a world leader, she said.

As a US citizen of Indian-origin, it brings a smile. I know that many of the Indian diaspora share that, Manwani said.

We think that TiE and TiE Silicon Valley can play a very big role and are continuing to do that. We see that role only enhancing in this corridor with India, Manwani said.

She said that the upcoming TiEcon, the worlds largest tech conference for entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and investors, will focus on the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and its opportunities in tech sectors.

The flagship event of TiE Silicon Valley, being billed as the groundbreaking event showcasing AIs profound and pervasive influence in the world, will also focus this year on exponential India, in recognition of the big role that the country is playing in AIs talent pool.

The event will bring the top leaders from the industry to the Santa Clara Convention Centre in Silicon Valley, California, from May 1 to 3.

We are very excited about TiEcon. This is going to be one of the best lineups of industry leaders, she said.

Our theme this year is AI Ubiquity, which means looking at AI challenges and opportunities in each of the tech sectors, including healthcare from a provider perspective, healthcare from a life sciences perspective, Manwani told PTI.

Were also going to be having tracks on manufacturing and supply chain, as well as ESG (environmental, social, and governance), which is focused on the race to net zero, she said.

We will have, this year, a special track on exponential India. India plays a very big role in the AI talent pool that they have, (Prime Minister) Modijis many, many programmes on increasing the number of AI startups, Manwani said ahead of the three-day event in Silicon Valley beginning May 1.

We will also have conversations on how we have the renaissance of semiconductors with the need for more compute power and GPUs, how this is impacting the growth in semiconductors, the research in semiconductors, she said.

There will be conversations around security, which has become so important with the cloud and the whole ability to have more AI-generated data, she said.

Ethics and how AI is impacting education is going to be a conversation led by thought leaders, both from the academic world as well as from the world of robotics, she said.

The conference will be set off by the founder and CEO of NVIDIA, Jensen Huang, who will be followed by others like Warner Thomas, the CEO of Sutter Health, one of the largest healthcare providers in the US.

Nikesh Arora from Palo Alto Networks, a transformational leader who has made many moves in the world of cyber security and Jay Choudhury from Zscaler are among the other prominent speakers, according to Manwani.

We have senior executives from Micron who will also be sharing their vision and how they are going to be implementing and accelerating the growth of AI, she said.

Describing it as one of the best and the largest conferences for TiEcon so far, Manwani said she expects a lot of young aspiring entrepreneurs, technologists, and students to attend it.

Over the years, TiE has grown to 57 chapters and 14 countries. TiE Silicon Valley is the founding chapter.

My vision would be that the I in TiE, which stands for Indus, becomes I as in international. So thats where the change is in TiE, Manwani said, adding that TiE has several initiatives in this regard including having tie-ups with similar counterpart organizations in the Asian community.
As the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr BR Ambedkar laid down the bedrock of fundamental rights and protections for all citizens

Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar, born on April 14, 1891, will ever be revered for his contributions towards building a just and inclusive India. He was a guardian angel of social justice, a harbinger of inclusivity, justice and equality. As an eminent jurist, economist and social reformer, he dedicated his life to eradicating caste-based discrimination and uplifting the marginalised communities in our country. As the architect of the Indian Constitution, he ensured fundamental rights and safeguards for all citizens.

As his legacy continues to inspire millions globally even today, standing as a beacon of hope for deprived communities striving for dignity and equality, there is a lot we can learn and inspire ourselves from his vision of social justice, which was profoundly rooted in the principles of equality, liberty and fraternity. He recognised the deep-rooted inequalities entrenched within Indian society, particularly the caste system, which relegated millions to a life of discrimination and oppression.

He fought for the abolition of untouchability, which is against the teachings of the Vedas. the Atrocious caste system had jolted him from within. To give shock treatment to Hindu society, he embraced Buddhism, which is so deeply rooted in Indian ethos and value system. He was not inimical to Hindutva. He had resentment against Hinduism but he was not opposed to Hinduism. He did not embrace any other alien religion though Islamic and Christian scholars tried their best to influence him.

Coming from a very poor family, Dr Ambedkar suffered multiple social and economic hardships but he did not give up. He fought against the odds bravely. He was the 14th child of his parents. His father gave him good Zanskar and used to share stories and thoughts of great saints like Sant Tukaram, Sant Gyaneshwar, Sant Shiromani Ravidas, teachings of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. He did his matriculation in 1908 from Elphinstone High School. He studied Economics and Political Science at Elphinstone College. In 1912, he got a degree from Bombay University.

With a scholarship from Maharaja of Baroda, he went to Columbia University, New York City from where he got a Masters degree in June 1915 after completing his thesis on Ancient Indian Commerce. In 1916, he went to the London School of Economics. In 1920, received the D Sc by London University! He also went to the University of Bonn, Germany. In June 1927, he was awarded a Doctorate by the University of Columbia. He was a rare Indian politician of his time who studied at Columbia University, LSE and University of Bonn.

Dr Ambedkar inspires us to imbibe the principle of Study and Struggle to create an incredible niche for himself as an intellectual as well. His vision of social justice emphasised the importance of education and political representation for the oppressed castes, viewing them as essential tools for empowerment and emancipation. He laid the foundation for a more inclusive and just society. He believed in the idea and ideals of dialogue. He was against armed struggle to restore the glory of every human being. He believed in the principle of co-existence, following the teachings of truth, non-violence and respect for the people of all castes and religions.

Dr Ambedkar viewed education not merely as a means of acquiring academic qualifications but as a catalyst for the liberation of the oppressed and marginalised communities.

He emphasised the importance of universal access to education, particularly for those historically denied opportunities due to caste discrimination and social inequality. He was also an ardent champion of the cultivation of values such as empathy, justice and equality. According to him, the cultivation of the mind should be the ultimate aim of human existence. He was also a great champion of womens empowerment.

He famously said: I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved. Dr Ambedkar held strong convictions about national unity and integrity, recognising them as fundamental pillars for the progress and stability of any nation. Dr Ambedkar advocated for a society where every individual had equal rights and opportunities, emphasising the need for social harmony and mutual respect. He also played a significant role in shaping Indias labour laws. His tireless efforts as Indias first Law Minister paved the way for landmark legislation like the Factories Act, the Minimum Wages Act and the Industrial Disputes Act, which continue to serve as cornerstones of labour rights and industrial progress in the country.

He stressed the significance of upholding the principles of democracy, secularism and constitutionalism to ensure the protection of the rights of weaker sections of society and the preservation of national unity.

His vision for India was one of inclusivity and pluralism, where diversity was celebrated as a source of strength rather than division. He saw untouchability as not just a moral wrong but also a significant impediment to the social progress and unity of India. He advocated for its complete abolition, stressing the need for legislative measures and social reform.

As we remember Dr BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary today, let us express our gratitude to him and commit ourselves to a democratic, secular and inclusive nation.

(The author is the Governor of Haryana. The views expressed are strictly his personal)
As the battle intensifies, the BJP faces the formidable challenge of safeguarding its Hindu vote bank amidst the evolving electoral dynamics

A very unique, a kind of first time, battle is being fought in politically significant 16 Lok Sabha seats of western Uttar Pradesh, which votes in the first phase on April 19 or the second phase on April 26. Prime Minister Narendra Modis whirlwind tour of the region is largely to counter the not so visible division in the Hindu votes. While the attack has been more direct on the Congress (its manifesto to be more specific) but an eye has also been kept on the moves of the BSP.

This part of the state has two dominant communities  the Jats and the Muslims. The two together formed the part of former Prime Minister Chowdhary Charan Singhs electoral calculus. The Dalits, specially the Jatavs, numerically have the third largest presence. Charan Singh last contested a Lok Sabha polls in 1984 and managed to hold ground despite the Rajiv Gandhi juggernaut passing through the country. The Jat leader did not live very long after the polls and his traditional seat came to his son Chowdhary Ajit Singh in 1989. Here started the story of the shrinking of the fortunes of the Charan Singh Kisan politics.

Ajit Singh in 1989 committed the grievous error of challenging his fathers close lieutenant, Mulayam Singh Yadavs claim to the Chief Ministers chair of Uttar Pradesh. Mulayam Singh enjoyed backing of party veterans like Chowdhary Devi Lal and then Young Turks like Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar. Ajit lost and herein started the erosion in political stature of Charan Singhs family.

Mulayam Singh in the 1990s, pushed a combination of the Muslims and non-Jat landholding agricultural communities like the Yadavs, Tyagis and to an extent the Gujjars under the umbrella of Samajwadi Party.

This decade also saw rise of Dalit icon Kanshi Ram and Mayawati and their Bahaujan Samaj Party. Mulayam Singh initially sought an alliance with them to add large numbers of Jatavs to counter the Jat dominance, it, however, ended in a bitter dispute as Mayawati decided to piggy ride on the BJP support to become chief minister. So by the turn of the millennium west UP had three major political forces Samajwadi Party, BSP and the BJP, correspondingly shrinking the influence of Chowdhary Ajit Singhs Rashtriya Lok Dal and of course the Congress.

Entering into the second decade of the 21st century BJP had come to create its own set of Jat leaders. With the rise in the Ram Mandir sentiments and arrival of Narendra Modi on the scene, consolidating the non-Jat, other backward classes (OBC) votes in addition to the upper castes created a Hindu vote bank which was best exemplified in the loss of Chowdhary Ajit Singh and his son Jayant Chowdhary both in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Since 2019 a lot of developments have taken place. The region saw a huge farmer unrest which was expected to adversely affect the fortunes of the BJP in the 2022 assembly polls but that did not happen. The coming together of Jayant Chowdhary and Mulayam Singh Yadavs son Akhilesh Yadav was not of much consequence as chief minister Yogi Adityanath held on the challenge based largely on an affirmative administration and also much improved law and order situation.

This time around another interesting battle is building up. Jayant Chowdhary moving to BJP side initially looked to have a solved a lot of problem for the opposition alliance, which quickly resolved their seats arrangement issues. However since then the third factor  BSP has entered the fray. The direct fight between the ruling alliance and the opposition block has now a third element to it.

The BSPs strategy in the distribution of tickets is to build its core vote bank of Jatavs by using discontentment among specific communities to its advantage and hoping that Muslims would support its candidates wherever they are in position of strength vis-a-vis the opposition alliance. How does that affect the BJP?

Playing on the bruised pride of the Thakur and Tyagi communities, on being ignored by the BJP, the BSP has fielded Rajput candidates in Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar and a Tyagi from Meerut. In Muzaffarnagar, it has played the most backward caste (MBC) card by positioning a Prajapti candidate against BJPs sitting MP Sanjeev Balyan. MBCs have remained with the BJP since the 1990s.

On such seats where there is huge presence of minority voters and where the opposition SP-Congress alliance is seen to be strong, BSP has another strategy. It has fielded Muslim candidates from seats that have Muslim population to the tune of 40 to 45 percent. The presence of these candidates have made the contests very tight. Given the scenario, the challenge for Modi-led BJP is to not let its Hindu vote bank disintegrate.

(The writer is a political analyst and president, Centre for Reforms, Development & Justice; views are personal)
The National Education Policy 2020 acknowledges philosophys importance but falls short in its implementation

Have you ever stared up at the night sky and wondered if we were alone? Or maybe youve pondered what it truly means to be good or bad? Or why do millions of birds fly in perfect unison across the sky? Philosophy isnt some stuffy subject locked away in a library. Its like gazing at a breathtaking sunset and questioning everything you thought you knew. Is that fiery orange glow real or just a trick of light? Does the beauty of a sunset exist even when no one is around to witness it? These are the kinds of questions that philosophers love to ask. Throughout history, philosophers from all corners of the globe have wrestled with these big questions. Theyve debated the nature of existence, the power of our minds and the best way to live a fulfilling life.

The scope of philosophy is vast, encompassing various subfields such as metaphysics (the study of the nature of reality), epistemology (the study of knowledge and belief), ethics (the study of moral principles), logic (the study of valid reasoning), aesthetics (the study of beauty and art), political philosophy (the study of governance and justice) and many others. Philosophy also engages in interdisciplinary dialogue with other fields, enriching both philosophy and these other disciplines.

The importance of philosophy in higher education is immense. The decline in the quality of higher education that we always ponder on in higher education is due to a lack of imparting philosophy in our curriculum. Students and teachers of the present generation lack an understanding of learning and teaching philosophy. Though the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 is constructed with philosophy as the background, it fails to infiltrate the minds of students or teachers. Teaching philosophy is essential for fostering intellectual growth, ethical awareness and critical engagement with the world, ultimately enriching both individuals and society as a whole.

Even in the PhD programme, though the degree is Doctor of Philosophy, most universities do not teach philosophy. Philosophy equips doctoral students with the intellectual toolkit needed to excel as independent researchers. Exposure to diverse philosophical perspectives cultivates open-mindedness. Doctoral students learn to consider different viewpoints, fostering intellectual curiosity and a willingness to learn from others.

This is crucial for collaboration and navigating the ever-evolving world of academic research. For instance, a science student might explore the philosophical underpinnings of the scientific method, while a literature student might delve into the concept of truth and interpretation. Philosophy hones critical thinking skills essential for doctoral research. Students learn to analyse arguments, identify biases and evaluate evidence. They develop the ability to ask probing questions, deconstruct assumptions and construct sound arguments supporting their research. Many doctoral programs involve research with ethical considerations. Philosophy provides a framework for ethical decision-making. Students grapple with ethical dilemmas in research design, data analysis and publication, preparing them to navigate the ethical complexities of their chosen field. Students learn to articulate their research questions, defend their findings and engage in scholarly debate with colleagues.

The absence of philosophy education in higher education centres could result in a less intellectually engaged, ethically informed and critically minded society, potentially hindering progress in academia, governance and societal development. Even when new branches of science emerge over the years, one subject that stays relevant in every society, even in a space colony, will be philosophy. It is high time we include Philosophy as a compulsory subject in our higher education.

(The writer is an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies; views are personal)
As the nation commemorates the 105th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, it reaffirms its commitment to justice, equality and nonviolence

Somen Sengupta, in his piece Jallianwala Bagh revisited published in his papers April 10, 2022 edition on its 103rd anniversary, reflected, This incident alone serves as a damning testament to the collective atrocity of firing upon an unarmed gathering. The actual number of casualties likely far exceeded the reported count. Somen further notes, Dyer, facing the Hunter Commission in Lahore, ultimately lost his position with a measure of reprimand.

April 13, 2024, marks the 105th anniversary of this tragic episode. It was amidst the auspicious Baisakhi celebrations on April 13, 1919, that Punjab was engulfed in tragedy, as around 20,000 rural attendees congregated at Jallianwala Bagh, oblivious to the impending horror. Durgadas Vaidya, editor of Waqt newspaper, addressed the peaceful protesters who were voicing opposition to the oppressive Rowlatt Act, passed on March 21, 1919.

The non-violent Satyagraha led by Mahatma Gandhi against the Act on April 6, 1919, culminated in his arrest on April 9 near Delhi, along with Saifuddin Kitchlew and Dr. Satyapal. The unjust repercussions sparked widespread anger, leading to violent clashes, including the tragic killing of nearly 30 Indians on April 10 by police gunfire as they sought to cross Hall Gate Bridge into the civil lines.

However, at Jallianwala Bagh, the scene turned chaotic as Brigadier-General Reginald (Rex) Dyer arrived unannounced. Dyer, with meticulous planning, ordered troops to open fire on the unarmed crowd, plunging the gathering into chaos and leaving an indelible mark on history and the land. The bullet-riddled walls and the well, where desperate individuals sought refuge, continue to evoke shudders.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre claimed the lives of 379 individuals, with numerous others sustaining injuries. The relentless firing of 1,650 rounds by British troops under Dyers command resulted in a bloodbath. Moreover, Dyers imposition of a curfew post-massacre exacerbated the tragedy, denying grieving families access to their deceased loved ones. The scale of suppression delayed the events revelation in the media, only brought to light by courageous journalists like B G Horniman of Bombay Chronicle and later Amrita Bazar Patrika, prompting global leaders like Lenin to express solidarity with the suffering Indian populace.

Professor K L Tuteja, a historian at Kurukshetra University, describes the massacre as a pivotal moment that drew sharp criticism both in England and India. Winston Churchill labeled it a monstrous event, an event which stands in singular and sinister isolation, while former Prime Minister Herbert Asquith deemed it One of the worst outrages in the whole of history. These reactions underscored the profound shock and dismay even among those who believed in the justness of British rule in India. Within India, the massacre left a deep scar, with many viewing it as an unparalleled atrocity. Mahatma Gandhis poignant response encapsulated the sentiment: We do not seek to punish Dyer. We harbor no thirst for vengeance. We seek to transform the system that bred Dyer. The massacre significantly influenced the trajectory of the anti-imperialist struggle, bolstering forces that challenged British rule in India.

Prominent figures like Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Jawaharlal Nehru and Annie Besant vehemently condemned the massacre, advocating for peaceful resistance against British colonial oppression. Gandhi relinquished the title of Kaiser-i-Hind, bestowed by the British, while Tagore renounced his knighthood in protest. Nehru denounced it as a monstrous crime, emphasising the nations duty to honour those who sacrificed their lives for political freedom.

(The writer is Programme Executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti; views are personal)
This temple stands tall as a symbol of cultural integration, mutual respect and the evolving relationship between India and the UAE

The legacy of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, born in Ayodhya in the 18th century, continues to reverberate through the annals of history, shaping the spiritual and social fabric of India and beyond. His profound understanding of Hindu scriptures, coupled with a tireless seven-year pilgrimage across the length and breadth of the subcontinent, not only kindled spiritual awakening but also laid the foundation for significant social reforms. The subsequent lineage of Gurus carried forth this sacred mission, disseminating spiritual enlightenment and fostering societal progress among their devotees. It was under the sagacious guidance of Swami Shastriji Maharaj that the Bochasanwasi Shri AksharPurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) was established in 1907, dedicated to nurturing individual growth through Hindu values of faith, service and global harmony.

From its humble beginnings in the western part of Gujarat, the BAPS Sanstha has blossomed into a global phenomenon, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural divides. Its emblematic Swaminarayan Temples, with their resplendent architecture and intricate designs, stand as timeless monuments of spiritual grandeur in various corners of the world. However, perhaps one of the most astonishing feats of this spiritual journey is the emergence of a magnificent temple amidst the unforgiving deserts of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Today, this temple stands as a beacon of hope and harmony, welcoming over 60,000 visitors from diverse nationalities on peak days.

The inception of the Swaminarayan Temple in the UAE can be traced back to April 5, 1997, when Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj prophesied the construction of a monumental Mandir in Abu Dhabi while seated atop a dune in Sharjah. Despite initial skepticism and the formidable challenges posed by the regions social and political landscape, this prophecy manifested into reality 27 years later, with the unveiling of the largest temple in the Middle East in the Abu Mureikha area of Abu Dhabi.

The journey from prophecy to fruition was fraught with obstacles, requiring unwavering dedication and steadfast resolve from the BAPS Sanstha, as well as the timely intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2015, a historic meeting between Prime Minister Modi and UAE President HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan marked a pivotal moment in the temples trajectory. Their mutual commitment to realising Pramukh Swami Maharajs vision paved the way for the allocation of land for the temple in Abu Dhabi by the UAE Government.

Central to the temples narrative is the unwavering vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, who emphasized the importance of preserving traditional architectural aesthetics. His endorsement of a traditional stone temple design in 2018 marked a significant milestone in the projects development. The temples inauguration by Prime Minister Modi later that year, based on the approved design, served as a poignant affirmation of the enduring friendship between India and the UAE.

The construction of the temple stands as a testament to the UAEs remarkable transformation from a desert country to a global powerhouse, driven by visionary leadership and unwavering determination. It symbolises the spirit of unity and cooperation that characterizes the nations journey towards progress and prosperity. The temples design, with its seven spires representing the seven emirates of the UAE, embodies the essence of harmony and inclusivity, reflected in the Wall of Harmony adorned with symbols from diverse cultures and nations.

With meticulous attention to detail, the temple was constructed using a blend of ancient architectural principles and modern innovations. Despite the challenges posed by the scorching desert climate, innovative solutions such as nano tiles for flooring ensured both functionality and aesthetics. The procurement of materials, including eighteen lakh bricks and seven lakh manhours of labor, underscored the monumental effort invested in realising this architectural marvel.

Surrounded by artificial representations of the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers, the temple evokes a sense of divinity and tranquility, serving as a sanctuary of peace amidst the bustling cityscape of Abu Dhabi. Its serene ambiance and awe-inspiring architecture stand as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring bond between India and the UAE.

(The writer is Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha; views are personal)
US Treasury Secretary Yellen raises concerns over Chinas trade practices

China is back on the Western radar with several high-profile visits to and from the Asian country. This week US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, rounded up her second trip to China, in less than a year, where she was firm and polite with Chinese government officials regarding the deep concerns the US has with the nation on several trade issues. One of the biggest concerns highlighted by Yellen is the disruptive trade practices of China, harming US interests and impacting the productivity of its factories, especially in electric vehicles, solar power equipment and lithium-ion batteries to name a few. Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, Janet Yellen said There are features of the Chinese economy that have growing negative spillovers on the U.S. and the globe. I am particularly worried about how Chinas enduring macroeconomic imbalances, namely its weak household consumption and business overinvestment, aggravated by large-scale government support in specific industrial sectors-will lead to significant risk to workers and businesses in the United States and the rest of the world.

What she intended to highlight was the huge supply glut created by the gigantic manufacturing complexes in China. She said that huge quantities of cheap Chinese products flooding the global markets were threatening domestic manufacturing not just in the US but all around the world. Chinese governments industrial policy push was unduly influencing the prices of several items around the world. She mentioned that nearly a decade ago the PRC government support led to cheap steel prices, which decimated several industries in the US and the world and a repeat of the same would not be tolerated.

The tricky issue of national security also came during Janet Yellens China visit. She carefully worded the USs concerns regarding Chinese support to Russia and said We also had difficult conversations about national security. President Biden and I are determined to do all that we can to stem the flow of material that is supporting Russias defence industrial base and helping it to wage war against Ukraine. We continue to be concerned about the role that any firms, including those in the PRC, are playing in Russias military procurement. I stressed that companies, including those in the PRC, must not provide material support for Russias war and that they will face significant consequences if they do.

Even as Janet Yellen was winding up her China tour, the Chinese commerce minister had reached Europe, to convince European lawmakers that the excess electric vehicle capacity/supply was a myth and was merely, the result of efficient factories in China. Wang Betao, Chinese commerce minister during an interaction in Paris, issued a statement later that stated Chinas electric vehicle companies rely on continuous technological innovation, perfect production and supply chain system and full market competition for rapid development, not relying on subsidies to gain competitive advantage, India is scaling up its electric vehicle production rapidly although it faces several supply-side constraints, primarily on components whose major exporter is China. India will have nearly a decade of catch-up to match Chinese electric vehicle capacity and would need huge investments from US and European companies to shift to a greener fuel. The next Indian government is likely to tweak the existing electric vehicle policy in its first 100-day agenda. The pending Europe India Technology and Trade Council meeting is not likely to be scheduled before the end of the year. Similarly, any significant US-India trade policy forum conversations would have to wait for early next year. However, a clear policy outlook and out-of-the-box thinking by the Indian government could still win the day for India for cleaner vehicle fuel.

(The writer is a policy analyst; views are personal)
US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has told lawmakers that by bolstering the Indian military's capabilities, the two nations can work together to uphold a more stable balance of power across the wider Indo-Pacific region.

He also told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee during a Congressional hearing this week on the annual budget of the Department of Defence that the militaries of the US and India are accelerating operational activities to boost maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

"By bolstering the Indian military's capabilities, we can work together to uphold a more stable balance of power across the wider Indo-Pacific," Austin said and added that "with this budget request, we are beginning a new chapter in US-India relations under our Major Defence Partnership".

The defence secretary said, "Our militaries are accelerating joint exercises, information-sharing and other operational activities to boost maritime security in the Indian Ocean."

"We are committed to ensuring that the growing US-India partnership supports the efforts of our broader network of allies and partners, especially the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue among Australia, India, Japan, and the United States," Austin said.

At a separate Congressional hearing on the Indo-Pacific, the Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral John C Aquilino, told lawmakers that a strong US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is essential to a free and open Indo-Pacific, amidst China's assertive moves in the region.

In 2023, the US and India launched INDUS-X and completed a roadmap for US-India Defence Industrial Cooperation to enhance bilateral defence industrial cooperation and innovation, he said. The proposed deal between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for domestic Indian production of the F-414 jet engines exemplifies this approach.

"The US and India are seeking unprecedented levels of interoperability by expanding cooperation in the air domain through the participation of US B-1B bombers in India's biennial air show AERO INDIA and bilateral air exercise COPE INDIA," Aquilino said.

He said that, additionally, in the land domain, "we conducted the largest-ever bilateral joint amphibious exercise with India, TIGER TRIUMPH, improving our cooperation on maritime domain awareness and strengthening service-to-service ties".

"USINDOPACOM (or the United States Indo-Pacific Command) seeks to deepen cooperation under the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) to enable more regular and flexible engagements in the Indian Ocean region, including US ship repair in Indian shipyards," he said.

Two new Master Ship Repair Agreements were signed in 2023, and three US Navy vessels have recently received maintenance and repair in Indian shipyards, the US admiral said.

Aquilino also told lawmakers that in 2021, amid its long-running border dispute with India, China passed a land border law "which asserted that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the (People's Republic of China) are sacred and inviolable" and provided a legal framework for greater People's Liberation Army involvement in border security.

The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a standoff in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.

The eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong Tso (lake) area. The eastern Ladakh standoff has resulted in a freeze of bilateral ties on all fronts except trade.
By Jun Ji-hye

Three in 100 adults in Korea have tried illegal drugs such as marijuana, cocaine and heroin at least once in their lives.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced the findings, Friday, after surveying 3,000 adults and 2,000 teenagers last year, at a time when the growing use of drugs, especially among younger generations, has become a major social issue in the country.

The survey showed that 3.1 percent of adults and 2.6 percent of teenagers had tried one or more of 13 kinds of illegal drugs.

Most of the respondents  86.3 percent of adults and 70.1 percent of teenagers  said Korea can no longer be considered free from illegal drugs, as they can be obtained easily through acquaintances or via social media.

However, a slightly lower percentage of the respondents  63.5 percent of adults and 67.6 percent of teenagers  said that they were aware of the risks posed by illegal drug use.

The ministry also included 10 drug-related questions in the survey, to which the respondents wrote wrong answers in two or three of the questions on average.

For instance, 51.7 percent of adults and 55.4 percent of teenagers incorrectly answered true to a true-or-false statement, Drugs prescribed by a doctor are not categorized as narcotics.

The correct answer is "false" because some drugs such as zolpidem and propofol are categorized as narcotics although they can be prescribed by a doctor.

Based on the results of the survey, we will expand drug rehabilitation infrastructure and relevant education, and strengthen drug control, a ministry official said.
Days after his remarks ghus ke marenge, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has now said India is ready to co-operate with the neighbouring country if it feels incapable of fighting terrorism.

It was in obvious reference to Pakistan as Rajnath some days back had said in an interview to a television channel India will not hesitate in entering the country to kill terrorists who escape by crossing the border.

In the latest jibe at Pakistan, Rajnath on Thursday said India was ready to cooperate to stop terrorism if the neighbouring country feels incapable. In an interview to ANI, the defence minister also warned that Pakistan would have to suffer consequences if it tries to destabilise India using terrorism.

If Pakistan feels incapable, India is ready to cooperate to stop terrorism, the Defence Minister said.

In the interview, Rajnath Singh also spoke about the Emergency period during the Indira Gandhi era. The veteran BJP leader recalled how he was not even given parole during his mothers demise.

I was not given parole to attend my mothers last rites during the Emergency, and now they (Congress) call us dictators, Rajnath said.

In the earlier interview, Rajnath said if terrorists tried to disturb peace in India, then ghus ke maarenge. He, however, maintained that India never attacked any country.

India has never attacked any country or tried to capture their territory. But if anyone threatens India or its peace, they will not be spared, he said.

In glimpses from an exclusive podcast shared by ANI on X, Rajnath warned that Pakistan will have to suffer the consequences of its actions in case it tries to destabilise India using terror as a tool.

The defence minister added that Pakistan must rein in terror emanating from its soil, adding that India is ready to offer its support if needed. If Pakistan feels incapable [to curb terror], India is ready to cooperate to stop terrorism, Rajnath said.

He also said Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir(POK) was, is and will remain part of India.
A fresh round of tug of war between the BJP and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee erupted on Thursday with the latter asserting that she will not allow implementation of the CAA, NRC and the Uniform Civil Code in the state. While the BJP accused Mamata of resorting to vote bank politics on the occasion of Eid and trying to polarise the society.

The ruling party at the Centre accused the TMC supremo from deviating from core issues like economic upliftment of all communities but instead, she attempted to sow the seeds of division among people.

Addressing a gathering at the Red Road on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, the TMC supremo claimed that some people will try to engineer riots during elections and urged those who participated in the programme not to fall prey to the plot.

We will not accept the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, National Register of Citizens and Uniform Civil Code. We will not accept any forcible implementation of these. I do not know how to hate people. I do not deliver hate speeches. I want everybody to live like brothers, in peace and harmony. If we will live unitedly, nobody will be able to cause harm to us. Do not let anybody break this unity, Banerjee said.

Till I am alive, nobody will be able to cause harm to you. I will keep fighting them. I have learnt from you people not fearing death, but its the other way round. There will be people who will be trying to engineer riots in the name of religion. You keep your cool and we will not let them to succeed in initiating riots here, Banerjee said.

In an apparent reference to the BJP, Banerjee alleged that with the elections closing in, the central government agencies are being used to scare the people, mainly the opposition leaders.

A few people want that during this election to scare people in the name of agencies. Drive the CBI, ED, Income Tax, and NIA after them. I will tell them (BJP) to construct a jail and put everyone behind the bars. But will you be able to put the entire population of 130 crores in jail?, I am ready to give blood for the country, but not ready to allow this torture go on, she said.

Banerjee without taking any name further alleged that at the moment when the election is around, a selected few Muslim leaders in the country were getting calls with offers. Today, during this election time, you are selecting and calling chosen Muslim people asking them what they want... I tell you they do not want anything. she elaborated.

Asserting that in Bengal, people are living in peace because there is brotherhood among different communities. Remember your honesty has helped people in Bengal to stay in peace. Live in peace and it is our responsibility to look after your security and nobody will be able to torture you, she said.

She asserted that her party TMCs fight is against the BJP. We are in West Bengal with your blessings. Remember its the TMC who is fighting against the BJP. We will decide about the INDIA bloc later. But in Bengal, please see that no vote goes to any other party, she said. TMC national general secretary and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee accompanied her at the Eid meet.

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya said people wanted to hear the chief ministers plan for the economic uplift of all communities but instead, she attempted to sow the seeds of division among people.

Instead of spreading the message of amity, brotherhood among the Muslim brethren at the gathering on Red Road, the CM tried to sow the seeds of division and polarisation for her narrow vote bank politics, Bhattacharya alleged.

The BJP leader said the chief minister should unveil a roadmap to develop West Bengal which belongs to all communities and improve their economic conditions.

Instead of speaking about ways to stop the migration of youths, including Muslims, from Bengal to other states, she tried to pit one community against another ahead of other religious festivals. This is dangerous politics and we call upon people of the state not to fall prey to the machinations of TMC supremo, the BJP state spokesperson said.
Six children were killed and around 20 injured on Thursday after a school bus carrying them overturned in Mahendragarh. Reports indicated the driver was allegedly drunk and the bus did not have the fitness certificate. Also, questions were posed as to how the school was open despite public holiday on account of Eid.

President Droupadi Murmu said the news of death of schoolchildren was heart-rending and prayed for strength to the bereaved families to bear this cruel blow.

In a post on X in Hindi, President Murmu said, The news of the death of innocent children in a school bus accident in Mahendragarh district of Haryana is heart-rending. May God give strength to the bereaved parents and relatives to bear this cruel blow. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured children.

Reports said the bus belonged to a private school and was being driven rashly at a high speed due to which the driver lost control and rammed the vehicle into a tree, causing it to overturn, police said.

Given the severity of the incident, the Haryana government ordered a probe and issued a show-cause to the school and some other schools that remained open on Thursday despite a public holiday on account of Eid. Moreover, the government has ordered a probe into the incident following the registration of an FIR, Transport Minister Aseem Goel said. Instructions were given to senior officials that a committee be formed to conduct a detailed probe covering various aspects. The committee will comprise higher officials of the state government, Goel told reporters.

He said the bus involved in the accident was fined recently as it did not have certain documents and the fact that it was still being used was a clear lapse on the part of the school authorities.

Directions have been given to the district transport officer concerned that a FIR be registered against the school, the minister said.

He added that if the probe reveals a lapse on the part of the motor vehicles inspector of the area -- that he failed to take action even though the bus did not have valid documents -- action will be taken against him as well.

We had challaned the bus for Rs 15,500 due to a lack of documents, but clearly, a lapse of the school authorities has been found, Goel said.

The minister said he has directed officials that the fitness of all school buses be checked. The district transport officer will issue circulars in this regard to district education officers, he added.

Mahendragarh Deputy Commissioner Monika Gupta said the administration is ensuring the best treatment for the injured children.

Action will be taken against the driver and the school authorities, she told reporters, adding that no one will be spared.

Asked about the bus not having a fitness certificate and other valid documents, Gupta said all these are matters of an inquiry and will be part of the FIR.

She said the private school was open on Eid and the district education officer has sent a proposal to the state government for cancelling its recognition.

Education Minister Seema Trikha, who met the injured children in the hospital, said the biggest lapse was that the school was open on a holiday.

Affidavits will be taken from all private schools to the effect that their buses are running in accordance with norms and action will be taken wherever violations are found, Trikha said.
The major problem of fatigue faced by the heavy transport drivers may be addressed soon as the national Capitals transport arm - Delhi Transport Corporation- is here to address the concern that cause 40 percent road mishaps across the country including Delhi.

Passengers plying on DTC buses can now take a sigh of relief as a prototype test will begin on Monday with introduction of a stand-alone gadget that includes an IR camera for streaming and a Raspberry Pi 4 board to monitor and then alert the driver if he doze while being on wheels.

In simple terms the system will consist of a webcam or a dashcam which can be installed anywhere in the vehicle in the vicinity of the driver to analyse his/ her facial expressions. The system will give an alert through a mobile application or vehicular system or an admin control dashboard, for an owner of a large fleet, through real time tracking and monitoring.

According to a survey by the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), drivers who exhaust themselves doze off while driving are accountable for about 40 percent of road mishaps and hence DTC is working to solve the problem of road accidents, by working on one of its biggest contributors- driver fatigue.

Interestingly, a 22 year old boy Vedansh Arun, currently in the final year of New Delhis Netaji Subhas University of Technology, has developed this unique prototype to solve the problem of road accidents. The motive behind this prototype was to solve the issues of road accidents that are recently happening due to drivers dozing off out of fatigue and sleep deprivation, said Vedansh.

The speaker of the vehicle can also alert the driver so as to make him realise that he needs to take a break or stop, Vedansh added. The prototype can currently give alerts but in the future, the college student adds, vehicles can be halted too.

It can be plugged into the vehicles electrical system directly and activates as soon as the vehicle is started. It has the following attributes- drowsiness detection, tiredness level detection, head pose estimation for distraction analysis and facial emotion analysis. It will be road tested by the Delhi Transport Ministry on the DTC buses for the proof of concept and the estimated time of the product installation in the buses can be six months.

Recollecting the DTC bus accident that occurred on November 4 in 2023 in Delhis Rohini area in which one person died and several others were injured due to the bus driver experiencing heart attack while driving, he said, In such cases, we have a vehicle halting mechanism. At first the speed of the vehicle will be reduced if we detect any that the drivers eyes are close up to a certain extent. If there is no response from the driver, we will gradually halt the vehicle.

Additionally even if the driver does respond, the vehicles maximum speed will be reduced. What makes this product intriguing is the story of a young boy behind it who never wanted an ordinary job. In the second year of college, I went to a cybersecurity hackathon in Chhattisgarh organised by IIIT. My friend and I stood first in the competition. Since I never wanted to do an ordinary job, we began with a startup that outsources technology for others. However, in the fourth month it was shut down as my friends worried about their placements, said the machine learning engineer.

However, he never was interested in seating for job placements. In 2023, he interned at a company Bharat Supply and Support where he worked on three to four projects for the Indian Army. The problem of driver fatigue is more severe in army convoys as officials dont sleep for about 50 hours. I worked on it fully, however the project was of somebody else. When I put forward the idea for normal vehicles, I was asked to develop a prototype, said Vedansh, who then developed the project alone without any help since the higher echelons in the company werent interested in the project.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday arrested Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha in connection with a corruption case linked to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam. Kavitha, 46, the daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, was held in Tihar jail where she was lodged after her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case linked to the excise scam on March 15.

A CBI source said they had earlier recorded Kavithas statement and now got some crucial evidence to arrest her. Investigation has so far revealed that one of the accused in the case, Vijay Nair, received kickbacks to the tune of at least Rs 100 crore from a group called South Group controlled by Sarath Reddy, Kavitha, and Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy on behalf of AAP leaders, the source added.

The CBI arrested Kavitha in jail number 6 of Tihar prison around 12 noon on Thursday under Section 120-B (criminal conspiracy) read with Section 477-A (falsification of accounts) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 7 (offence relating to public servant being bribed) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, the officials said. The agency had questioned Kavitha inside the prison on Saturday after obtaining permission from a special court. The BRS leader was questioned on WhatsApp chats recovered from co-accused Buchi Babus phone and documents related to a land deal after which Rs 100 crore was allegedly paid to Delhis ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in kickbacks to swing the now-scrapped excise policy in favour of a liquor lobby.

While Kavitha will remain in Tihar jail on Thursday, the agency is likely to produce her before a court on Friday to seek her remand. If the CBI gets her remand, Kavitha will be moved to a lockup at the agency headquarters where she will be questioned by officers of the Anti-Corruption Branch, which is probing the case, the officials said.

The ED had arrested Kavitha from her Banjara Hills residence in Hyderabad. It has alleged that one of the accused, Vijay Nair, received kickbacks to the tune of at least Rs 100 crore from a group called South Group (controlled by Sarath Reddy, Kavitha, Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy) on behalf of AAP leaders.

The CBI, which has so far filed three charge sheets against a number of accused, including former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, has alleged that kickbacks worth around Rs 90-100 crore were paid in advance to some AAP leaders and public servants by some people in the liquor business from south India through Nair and co-accused Abhishek Boinpally and Dinesh Arora.

Earlier, Kavitha had approached the court for interim bail, claiming her 16-year-old son has exams and needs her moral and emotional support.

From the material placed before this court, it appears that the Applicant not only engaged in destruction of material evidence by formatting her phones before joining the investigation and after being served with notice requiring her to do so, along with her digital devices, which stands established by way of the forensic report in this regard, but also has been instrumental in influencing witnesses and there is every likelihood of her continuing to do so in case the relief prayed for is granted to her, Special Judge Kaveri Baweja said while rejecting her interim bail application.

The judge said Kavitha was stated to be highly educated, and by no standards can be said to a vulnerable woman who could be made a scapegoat for committing the alleged offences. She is undoubtedly a well-educated and well-placed woman in the society.

The material placed before this court in the course of arguments prima facie points towards her active involvement in commission of the alleged offences as also towards her deliberate act of causing destruction of evidence, besides attempting to influence witnesses of the case, the judge said.

In response to Kavithas submission that her husband was busy pursuing litigation on her behalf, the judge said it was not a convincing reason for grant of interim bail, and added that it also appears that so called exam related anxiety of the child does not seem to be his (fathers) priority.

The judge said there was no apparent reason as to why close relatives (older sibling, father and maternal aunts, i.E., mausis) cannot provide the requisite moral support to the child during his examinations.

The argument that they cannot be a substitute for the mother to address the exam related anxiety of the child is not a compelling reason to grant interim bail, she said.
Nine members of a gang extorting money from people under the guise of loan offers have been arrested by the Cybercrime Cell of the Gurugram police.



The gang offered loans via the app 'FINSARA' and subsequently coerced the victim into paying money by threatening her with sending their morphed pictures to their contacts.



The police said a woman lodged a complaint that she had taken a loan of Rs 3,000 through the app and when she failed to pay the loan. A few days later, the victim started receiving messages, asking her to repay the loan amount. The suspects harassed her by uploading her dirty posts on Facebook and repeatedly posting objectionable photos on WhatsApp and threatened to send the photos to her family members if she did not pay the money.



The police said during the investigation, they nabbed Gaurav Wadhwa, Rahul Jain, Rohan Palha, Rohit Kumar, Brijendra Singh, Pawan Kumar, Avnish Giri, Shishu Kumar, Vivek from Udyog Vihar in Gurugram on Wednesday.



During interrogation, the accused, revealed that Rohan, Gaurav and Rahul are the owners of the company/app FINSARA. Rohit Kumar is the manager, Brijender Singh and Pawan Kumar are the team leaders and Avnish Giri, Shishu Kumar and Ritesh are the recovery agents and work in giving loans to the people through the loan app.



"To recover the loan from people who do not repay the loan, they hired people who used to recover money by morphing the victim's photo and threatening to send it to social media platforms and their family members if the loan is not returned. For this, team leaders get Rs 25,000 per month and recovery agents get Rs 14,000 per month," Priyanshu Diwan, ACP (cyber crime) said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday slammed the INDIA bloc for practising dynastic politics, and said that in the upcoming elections, people have to choose between the one leader who worked for taking every section of society forward and those who promote their own family members.

He was addressing a public meeting in Mandla (ST) Lok Sabha seat for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and Union minister Faggan Singh Kulaste.

"There is a team led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the one led by Congress party leadership. The only aim of the 'ghamandia' (arrogant) alliance is to promote their own family members, while Modi's only aim is to take forward the poor, tribal, Dalits, backward and every section of the society," he said.

In the 10 years of Modi rule, 25 crore people have come out of the below poverty line mark in the country, he said.

In Madhya Pradesh alone, 95 lakh farmers were given the Kisan Samman Nidhi assistance, 70 lakh women got the facility of tap water in their houses and more than four crore people got the benefit of the Ayushman Bharat scheme that guarantees treatment up to Rs five lakh free of cost, he said.

The Union government also constructed toilets in 80 lakh households in the country to give dignity to women, and 88 lakh sisters and mothers were provided with LPG cylinders for a smoke-free kitchen, Shah added.

The central government provided houses to 82 lakh beneficiaries and also took a number of other steps for the welfare of the poor, he said.

According to the senior BJP leader, the Modi government was providing five kilograms of free ration per person every month to 70-80 crore people in the country.

Although the Congress has ruled the country for a long time, it has not done anything for the tribal community, he alleged.

"I want to ask Rahul Gandhi what his party has done for the tribal community. It was the BJP government that made a tribal woman of Odisha, Droupadi Murmu, the President of the country," he said.

It was the government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee that constituted a separate ministry for tribal welfare in the country and the Modi government which started the practice of observing Adivasi Gaurav Diwas in memory of the tribal icon Birsa Munda, Shah said.

After the election rally in Mandla he will perform puja at Maa Narmada Pujon Rapta ghat.

Thereafter, he will visit Katni in Madhya Pradesh, where the senior BJP leader will offer prayer at the Vijaynath Dham Mandir in the town. He will also address a rally at the town, which comes under the Khajuraho constituency. BJP has fielded VD Sharma from the constituency again.

Shah will also be travelling to Nanded in Maharashtra to address an election rally for the BJP candidate. This will be his first election rally in the state. The saffron party has fielded sitting MP Prataprao Chikhlikar from Nanded.

In 2019 Lok Sabha elections the saffron party won 28 seats out of 29 in Madhya Pradesh.
Chief Electoral Officer Anupam Rajan has said that the Model Code of Conduct is effective from March 16 for the Lok Sabha elections 2024 in the state. Complaints of violation of Model Code of Conduct are being received from citizens on C-Vigil App. In the last 27 days i.e. from March 16 to April 11, 2852 complaints of violation of the code of conduct have been received on the C-Vigil app. All these complaints have been resolved promptly.

Rajan said that mainly 286 complaints have been received in Sagar, Ujjain 232, Gwalior 179, Morena 172, Rajgarh 160, Rewa 155, Indore 130, Damoh 120, Sehore 118 and 106 complaints have been received from Khargone district. Similar complaints have been received from other districts also.

Rajan has urged the citizens of the state that if they want to make any direct complaint related to violation of Model Code of Conduct in elections, then they can do so through C-Vigil App. For this, the concerned citizen will have to go to Google Play Store and download C-Vigil App.

Action will be taken within 100 minutes

Rajan said that if a citizen has information about any incident related to violation of the code of conduct, he will have to upload the photo or video on the C-Vigil App. After receiving the complaint, action will be taken within the next 100 minutes.

It is noteworthy that "C-Vigil App" has been prepared by the Election Commission of India for redressal of complaints regarding violation of Model Code of Conduct.

Through this app, any citizen can make other types of complaints including to prevent the political parties or candidates from distributing money, material, clothes, jewellery, etc. in any way to woo the voters, threatening the voters to vote in their favour, transporting voters in their own vehicle, putting promotional material on the building or walls or premises of a building owner without his permission or writing advertisements on the wall.
In a recent development, allegations of unethical practices have surfaced against several schools of Bokaro in the region , leading to the formation of an inquiry committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner Vijaya Jadhav along with the co-chairmanship of the District Education Officer. The allegations primarily revolve around two main issues as arbitrary fee hikes and fraudulent credentials.

Jharkhand Parent associations Mahendra Rai, a member of committee representing parents , has accused schools including Saint Xavier School in Sector-1, MGM Higher Secondary School in Sector-4, Chinmaya Vidyalaya in Sector 5, and Delhi Public School in Sector 4 of arbitrarily increasing annual fees by 20% and mandating the purchase of textbooks from nominated bookstores, without any transparent rationale.

Additionally, Crescents public school in Sector-6, Mithila Academy Public School in Sector-4, and Sardar Patel Public School in Sector-9 are under scrutiny for allegedly presenting counterfeit documents to obtain accreditation from the CBSE.

To address these serious allegations, a district-level committee has been constituted to investigate the claims thoroughly. The committee, chaired by the Deputy Commissioner, will convene a hearing at the office premises on April 13, 2024, at 3:00 PM to review the complaints lodged by concerned parents.

In light of these developments, the principals of the implicated schools are requested to provide detailed financial records of the previous academic year's fee structure, along with a list of prescribed textbooks and their publishers, while the principals of Crescent Public School, Mithila Academy Public School, and Sardar Patel Public School are urged to submit authenticated copies of documents submitted for CBSE accreditation.

Notably since the inception of the new DC Vijaya Jadhav, revolutionary steps have been taken to enhance the district's educational system in all aspects. These steps may include initiatives to improve infrastructure, enhance teaching methodologies, provide better resources for students, and promote overall excellence in education. By implementing innovative measures, the DC aims to create a conducive environment for learning and development, ultimately benefiting the entire community.
BSP announces retired govt employee as Sangrur candidate

Hoshiarpur: Bahujan Samaj Party on Thursday announced Makhan Singh, a former deputy director of the State Health Department, as its candidate from Sangrur Lok Sabha seat. Sharing the information, BSP in-charge for Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh Randhir Singh Beniwal said that the candidates on the remaining seats will be announced soon. Earlier, the Mayawati-led outfit announced its candidate from Hoshiarpur and Ferozepur seats. BSPs Punjab unit president Jasvir Singh Garhi said that Makhan Singh has a longstanding association with the party, and is presently serving as the general secretary of the state unit. Makhan Singh had retired as the deputy director of the state health department. Sangrur Lok Sabha seat is currently represented by Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) Simranjit Singh Mann. The AAP has fielded Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer from the Sangrur seat.

Punjab CEO launches PAMS

Chandigarh: Punjabs Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C on Thursday launched the Poll Activity Management System (PAMS) for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024 in his office. Notably, during 2022 assembly elections, PAMS played a pivotal role in monitoring various poll events such as party dispatched, party arrived, mock poll conducted, poll started, poll closed, voters in queue at 6 pm, party dispersed, party reached and material deposited. The system facilitated real-time monitoring of activities across all polling stations through sector magistrates, utilizing a dedicated mobile application. Sibin C underscored that the PAMS has been enhanced and refined for the forthcoming Lok Sabha Elections-2024, promising heightened efficiency in managing election-related activities while ensuring transparency in the electoral process. To provide real-time updates, mobile applications compatible with both Android and iOS platforms have been developed. Moreover, a token-based access algorithm has been implemented to ensure secure interactions between the application and the server. Leveraging GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude), the application meticulously tracks the movement of parties during the dispatch process, thereby upholding transparency and accountability at every step.

Sukhbir appeals to Punjabis to seal Punjabs borders against Delhi-based parties with their votes

Patiala: Appealing to Punjabis to seal Punjabs borders with their votes to prevent Delhi-based parties from making inroads in the State, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Thursday said that all these units obeyed their high command as had been done by BJP leaders of Punjab who had arraigned themselves against the Kisan Andolan. BJP Government in Haryana is not letting our farmers go to Delhi to voice your grievances and has even fired bullets at them while sealing the roads to the national capital. I appeal to farmers to also seal the borders of Punjab for all Delhi-based parties with their votes, he said, adding that the forthcoming parliamentary election had become a fight between the forces of Delhi and Punjabis, all of whom had suffered at the hands of Delhi based parties.

SAD inducts BJP State Executive member Prof Sumrinder S Sira

Patiala: SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Thursday inducted Prof Sumrinder Singh Sira, a State BJP executive member and prominent social activist, into the SAD ranks. Prof Sira is considered close to former Chief Minister and BJP leader Capt Amarinder Singh. During the induction ceremony, Sukhbir lauded Prof Sira as a grassroots leader who has been tirelessly serving the region. In recognition of his dedication and contributions, Prof Sira was appointed as the partys vice-president.

SADs Decline Inevitable, BJP's Electoral Ambitions to Falter: PPCC chief

Chandigarh: Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Thursday delivered a scathing assessment of the SAD future prospects, declaring it to be the beginning of the end for the party. Speaking to the media, he highlighted the Akali Dal's recent electoral setbacks and their inability to address key issues plaguing Punjab. He emphasized the erosion of trust in the Akali Dal leadership and predicted their downfall in the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections. Regarding the Congress's electoral strategy, Warring assured that meticulously chosen candidates would soon be unveiled, promising genuine commitment to the electorate's welfare. He also criticized the BJP's governance tactics, likening their electoral ambitions to the failed 'India Shining' campaign of the past. Warring reiterated the Congress's dedication to transparent and accountable governance, signaling a readiness to embrace change and lead Punjab into the future.
The Seoul city government decided Friday to allow an outdoor reading event to be held at Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall on May 31, effectively rejecting the request of an annual LGBTQ festival there.

The LGBTQ festival was one of three events that sought to use the plaza on the same day, including a Christian group event, and a committee under the city government unanimously agreed to grant the approval to Seoul Metropolitan Library for the reading event.

The committee said the library had already signed up to use the space before and after the date concerned, and it granted the approval to the library to maintain the continuity of the event and its efficiency.

It marks the second time the annual queer festival has been opted out of its usual spot in the Seoul Plaza after the city gave the ticket to a Christian group to hold a youth concert last year. (Yonhap)
Rajendranagar police solve revealed two incidents of theft. Bali gang was arrested for stealing a rickshaw from a barrage and a grocery shop.

Police recovered stolen goods, one e-rickshaw and groceries worth Rs 2 lakh 20 thousand. Police arrested accused Shyamu Silavat, Sangeeta Yadav, Manisha Solanki.

The arrested accused have a record of being involved in theft incidents in the past also.

To curb the incidents of theft in Indore urban area, Police Commissioner Indore Rakesh Gupta and Deputy Commissioner of Police Zone-01 Indore Vinod Kumar Meena , Additional Commissioner of Police Alok Sharma and Assistant Police Commissioner Gandhi Nagar Rubina Mijwani were directed to take strict action. In compliance with the above instructions, to investigate the incidents of theft in area, a team was formed by the police station in-charge Rajendra Nagar Siyaram Gurjar under the guidance of senior officers to investigate the incidents of theft.

Case number 1, dated 27-3-2024, the complainant Bablu Chauhan, father Anarsingh, resident of Buddhanagar, Indore, came to the police station and reported that the complainant's e-rickshaw number mp09 de 9646, worth approximately Rs 1 lakh 80 thousand, was stolen by an unknown thief at the spot Tezpur gadbadi was stolen. On the report of the complainant, crime number 293/2024 section 379 of IPC was registered at Rajendra Nagar police station and taken up for investigation.

In case number 2 dated 4-4-2024, complainant Umesh Maravi, father Jugalkishore Maravi, resident of Scheme No. 103 Kesarbagh Road, Indore has reported at the police station that the grocery shop of the complainant was broken into by unknown thieves by breaking the lock of the grocery shop of Scheme No. 103 Kesarbagh Road, Indore in the night. Groceries and cash worth a total of Rs 40 thousand were stolen from the shop of the complainant. Based on the report of the complainant, crime number 312/2024 section 457,380 of Indian Penal Code was registered at Rajendra Nagar police station and taken up for investigation.

The team formed to investigate the above mentioned crimes visited the places of occurrence.

After inspection, CCTV footage was collected and continuous efforts were made by the police to arrest the incident by recruiting informers and on the basis of

information was received that some people were going with a stolen auto rickshaw. When the police stopped the rickshaw the accused ran away.

In a similar incident, Rajendra Nagar police, while investigating the theft at a grocery shop, made sustained efforts and on the basis of informer's information, the accused Shyamu Sijavat, Sangeeta Yadav, Manisha Solanki were caught and the stolen grocery goods and cash were seized. In both the above incidents, goods worth about Rs 2 lakh 20 thousand has been recovered by the police. Interrogation of the arrested accused is going.
The political sphere in Punjab was stirred by controversy as a 2011-batch IAS officer Parampal Kaur Sidhu on Thursday officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alongside her husband Gurpreet Singh Maluka  son of senior Akali Dal leader Sikander Singh Maluka, mere days after tendering her voluntary retirement from the Punjab Government. However, the timing of Sidhus resignation and subsequent political allegiance sparked a dispute, with conflicting statements emerging from different quarters.

While Sidhu and Malukas induction into the BJP was marked by a formal ceremony at BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, hours later, shared a post on X asserting that the State Government had not accepted Sidhus resignation as an IAS officer. At the same time, Mann cautioned Sidhu about the potential ramifications of her swift decision, emphasizing the importance of adhering to proper procedures while resigning from a government position.

Parmpal Kaurs resignation as an IAS officer hasnt yet not accepted by Punjab Government. She was so eager to become an IAS earlier. However, there is a way to leavePlease understand the ways to resignOtherwise, the earning of the whole life will go waste, Mann posted, in Punjabi, on X.

In contrast, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, speaking at the induction event, claimed that Sidhu's resignation had been accepted a day before her BJP affiliation was announced. This contradiction highlighted the confusion surrounding Sidhus departure from her bureaucratic role and fueled speculation about the underlying motives behind her political transition.

Fifty-nine-year-old Sidhu, who was to retire in October this year, had put in her papers seeking premature retirement on April 3, amid speculation that she might join the BJP. At that time, she was holding the post of Punjab State Industrial Development Corporations managing director.

Expressing her decision to join the BJP, Sidhu emphasized, After assessing the BJP's policies and their commitment to women's welfare, my husband and I concluded that joining the BJP was the right choice. I believe that other political parties have limited prospects in Punjab and the nation at large.

Sidhus decision to resign and align with the BJP carries implications beyond just a change in political allegiance. Speculations abound regarding her potential candidacy from the Bathinda Lok Sabha seat, currently held by Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badals wife and former Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal.

The potential electoral contest between Sidhu and Harsimrat in Bathinda has triggered apprehensions within the Akali Dal camp. Sikander Singh Maluka, former Akali Minister who has not joined the BJP, was actively campaigning for Harsimrat Kaur Badal till Wednesday (April 10). Moreover, Maluka is also the member of SADs manifesto committee formed for 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Maluka commands significant influence in Rampura Phul, Maur, Bathinda Rural, and surrounding areas that fall under Bathinda Lok Sabha constituency, raising concerns that Sidhus candidacy could potentially divide Harsimrats voter base.

In September 2021, internal strife erupted within the Akali Dal when Maluka's request for a ticket from the Maur constituency was denied. Originally, he had sought a ticket for both himself and his son Gurpreet Singh Maluka, with the former wanting to contest from Maur, while fielding his son from Rampura Phul, where the former Minister had previously won twice out of five contests. Eventually, after initial reluctance, Maluka contested from Rampura Phul, while his son Gurpreet did not enter the fray.

Sidhu's Journey Amidst Political Connections

Parampal Kaur Sidhu made her mark as Punjabs first woman Block Development Panchayat Officer (BDPO) in the early 1990s. However, her career trajectory was marked by a series of controversies, largely attributed to her familial ties with senior Akali leader Sikander Singh Maluka.

During the SAD-BJP regime in 2013, attempts were made to integrate Sidhu into the Punjab Civil Service (PCS) through nomination, leveraging her familial connection with Maluka, who was the Education Minister that time. However, Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) returned the file, signaling disapproval of nomination. Nevertheless, she assumed the role of Additional Project Director in the office of the Director General of School Education at that time.

Following a Cabinet reshuffle that saw Malukas portfolio expand to include the Rural Development and Panchayat Department, Sidhu was appointed as District Development Panchayat Officer (DDPO) in Bathinda in 2015. Her promotion to Deputy Director in the Panchayat Department on December 1, 2015, paved the way for her case to be forwarded to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for potential induction as an IAS officer through the nomination route.

Joining as a non-state civil services IAS officer on January 15, 2016, during the SAD-BJP administration, Sidhus initial posting as Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) in Bathinda underscored the influence of her familial ties within the political landscape. Despite her relatively recent entry into the civil services, she was categorized under the 2011-batch of IAS officers due to her prior length of service.

Her appointment to positions within departments Maluka oversaw as a Minister also drew sharp criticism from the Congress during its regime in 2017-2022.
In a tragic incident, at least six children were killed and 20 others injured after a School Bus carrying around 30 children overturned near Unhani village under Kanina sub-division in Mahendragarh district on Thursday morning. The incident took place when the bus was on its way to the School in Kanina town after picking up the children from their houses. The school was functioning despite a holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr.



According to Eyewitnesses, the driver was allegedly in a drunken state and he lost balance over the wheel when the bus reached near Unhani village. The local Police said that a school bus belonging to GL Public School in Kanina was involved in an accident in the Mahendergarh district after the driver tried to overtake another vehicle.



Hearing the screaming of children, the passerby rushed to the spot and took out injured children from the bus and were taken to a nearby hospital in Mahendergarh and Narnaul but some of them were declared brought dead. Condition of some of them is also stated to be critical. District administrative and police officers rushed to the hospital to get information about the incident.



Police sources said the bus driver had been nabbed and he was being questioned to find out the exact reason behind the mishap. The bus belonged to a private school and was being driven rashly at a high speed due to which the driver lost control and rammed the vehicle into a tree, causing it to overturn. As per preliminary inquiry, the official documents show that the bus's fitness certificate had expired six years ago in 2018, they added.



Mahendergarh Superintendent of Police (SP) Arsh Verma said that doctors are conducting a medical examination of the bus driver to ascertain whether he was drunk or not. We are also examining documents of the bus. The school authorities are yet to be contacted to determine their responsibility. Two children are still critical and undergoing treatment. Six children had died, the SP said in a statement.



Talking to reporters, Haryana Education Minister Seema Trikha said she had spoken to the deputy commissioner and Mahendergarh superintendent of police to visit the hospital where the students are undergoing treatment and begin investigating the matter. Mahendergarh district collector Monika Gupta said that strict action will be initiated against school authorities and bus driver. She termed the accident unfortunate and blamed school driver for the mishap.



President Draupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda and other leaders expressed their grief over the incident.



Murmu on Thursday said the news of the death of schoolchildren in a bus accident in Mahendragarh district was heart-rending and prayed for strength to the bereaved families to bear this cruel blow. In a post on X in Hindi, Murmu said, The news of the death of innocent children in a school bus accident in Mahendragarh district of Haryana is heart-rending. May God give strength to the bereaved parents and relatives to bear this cruel blow. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured children.



Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to X and extended condolences over the deaths in the school bus accident while assuring that the local administration is providing help to the injured children. The accident of a school bus in Mahendragarh, Haryana is very sad. My condolences are with the bereaved families of the deceased children. May God give them strength to bear this loss. The local administration is providing help to the injured children. I wish them a speedy recovery, added Amit Shah.



Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed profound grief over the unfortunate incident involving a school bus in the village of Unhani, Kanina block, Mahendragarh district. In a statement, the Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the children who lost their lives in the tragic accident. He prayed to the Almighty that the departed souls rest in peace. Saini further said that strict measures will be taken against any negligence that led to this unfortunate incident. Additionally, all necessary support will be extended to the injured children for their speedy recovery.



Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda described this as a heart-wrenching accident and prayed to God to give strength to the family members to bear this grief. He wished for an early recovery of the injured students. He also said that there are reports of many types of carelessness, including driving and drinking alcohol, as possible reasons behind the accident. The question is also that despite the Eid holiday, why and where was the bus going with the children Therefore, there should be a judicial inquiry into the entire matter, Hooda said.
Sukesh Chandrasekhar, who is accused in a Rs 200 crore cheating case involving the wife of a former Fortis Healthcare promoter, has gone on a hunger strike protesting against the alleged abuse by a Mandoli jail Superintendent Dhananjay Rawat under the guise of his uniform.

Sukeshs advocate Anant Malik said, My client has been on a hunger strike for the past two days. He is being harassed by Superintendent Dhananjay Rawat in the Mandoli jail with the assistance of Deputy Superintendent RN Meena.

Malik on behalf of his client wrote to the prison officials regarding the harrasment and torture of Sukesh by Rawat. He said, Let me highlight the orders of the Honble Courts wherein directions have been passed to the Jail Superintendent concerned to not harass or torture my client, however all in vain as Dhanajay Rawat till this very moment continues under the guise of his uniform to harass, torture, abuse, my client with the aid and assistance of Deputy Superintendent RN Meena.

Claiming a connection with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), he said, He (Dhananjay Rawat) further has used the name of the Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and Satyendra Jain and is giving out open warnings to my client to retract statements given to the High Powered Committee against them and other jail officials.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has recently given a nod for CBI inquiry in the case of Satyendra Jain. It seems he (Dhananjay Rawat), at the behest of AAP, is carrying out the work of destruction of evidence, a fact which I shall also be bringing to the notice of CBI who have been granted sanction by the MHA to investigate the complaint as filed against Satyendra Jain and jail officials by my client and also the the Honble LG, he said.

Further, he said that a fresh complaint will be filed about the latest developments to the CBI about how Mr.Dhanajay Rawat is being a puppet of his political gurus Kejriwal and Jain, leaving no stone unturned to harass, torture and humiliate Sukesh.

Citing the order of the Trial Court to carry out an independent inquiry on the complaint of Sukesh, he said that he was in utter shock and dismay to learn that the persons against whom the enquiry was to be conducted are being directed to conduct the said enquiry themselves.

There cannot be any more brazen violation of law than this, despite there being specific directions in this regard to superior officials i.e. Dhananjay Rawat has been marked an enquiry in which the main allegations are against him. He is the umpire in a match where he should have been a suspended player. But the Delhi jails always choose to outdo themselves as far as lawlessness is concerned, the sole reason that the competent authorities have sanctioned approvals for prosecution the Ex Jail Minister, Jail officials etc, he alleged.

He also claimed that Rawat spoke to the client in a very abusive tone, saying Kya Ukhaad liya tune high court jaakey, Jail toh humari hai aur mera koi kuch nai bigaad sakta (What difference have you made by going to the High Court? The jail is ours and no one can do any harm to me.) He also claimed that both of the jail officials are trying to destroy evidence available against Rawats political masters by putting pressure on his client.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused the BJP of breaching the election Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and called upon the Election Commission to ensure a level-playing field for all parties, alleging that the BJP is exploiting central agencies for its own political benefits.

Addressing two back-to-back rallies in Cooch Behar and Alipurduar, Banerjee accused the poll panel of not providing permission to rebuild damaged houses in Jalpaiguri which were destroyed by a storm recently.

"The BJP is misusing central agencies. They are using the ED, CBI, and the Income Tax to serve their (BJP) political agenda ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. The central investigating agencies and paramilitary forces like the BSF and CISF are working for the BJP. We would request the EC to ensure that there is a level-playing ground for all parties," she said.

Speaking about the state administration's decision to provide a rehabilitation package to the storm-hit dwellers, Banerjee said, "The state administration through a previous law enacted under disaster management will provide Rs 1.20 lakh to the people in two phases to start building houses..

"Rs 20,000 has already been given to the affected people. Within the next few days, we will provide Rs 40,000 and then the remaining Rs 60,000 will be handed over in the next few weeks. Now, if somebody thinks I have committed any wrong, they can check the law that was passed by the state assembly last year," she said.

Hitting out at the BJP over the issue of the Citizenship Amendment Act in the state, Banerjee said applying for CAA would designate an applicant as a foreigner and advised against it.

"The CAA is a trap to turn legal citizens into foreigners. Once you (BJP) implement CAA, NRC will follow. We would allow neither CAA nor NRC in West Bengal," Banerjee said.

She questioned why a member of the census department was included in the CAA committee "if they have no plan for the NRC in future. The CAA is the head and the NRC is the tail," she said.

Banerjee also slammed the BJP for re-nominating a person from Cooch Behar constituency who has several criminal cases against him.

"It is a matter of national shame that a person against whom several cases are pending has been appointed as the minister of state for home affairs," she said in an apparent reference to Nisith Pramanik, who is seeking re-election from Cooch Behar.

Banerjee criticised opposition bloc INDIA partners - CPI (M) and Congress - for "joining hands with the BJP" in West Bengal and asserted that the opposition front ceases to exist in the state.

Banerjee said, "Don't cast your vote in favour of the Congress and the CPI(M) if you want to defeat the BJP."

Reacting to Banerjee's assertion, BJP state spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya termed the allegations as baseless.

"The allegations that central agencies are being misused are baseless. These allegations are a political rhetoric to fool the masses to divert attention from corru
India on Friday asked its citizens not to travel to Iran or Israel amid escalating tensions between the two countries following a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria 11 days ago.

Iran blamed Israel for the strike and there have been fears that Tehran may launch an attack on Israel soon.

In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also urged the Indians residing in Iran and Israel to exercise utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to minimum.

"In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice," it said.

"All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," the MEA said.

"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday attacked the Congress over its handling of the Kashmir issue, saying the party "pampered" Article 370 like a child in its lap for decades till it was scrapped.

At an election meeting in Moradabad, Shah also slammed Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for suggesting recently that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should not be speaking about Kashmir while addressing rallies in other states.

"Tell me isn't Kashmir ours? Khargeji of the Congress asks what do people of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have to do with Kashmir," he said, adding that every child of Moradabad is ready to give his life for Kashmir.

"For 70 years, the Congress pampered Article 370 like an illegitimate child in its lap," Shah said, referring to the special status enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir under the Article.

"You made Modiji the prime minister for the second time and he abolished Article 370 on August 5, 2019. Today our tricolour is flying there with pride. Under the leadership of Modiji, Kashmir has been united with India forever," Shah said.

He said, "Modiji has divided the entire country into four 'castes'  women, poor, youth and farmers. On this basis, work has been done for the development of everyone in the entire country."

The SP has fielded Ruchi Veera from Moradabad this time against the BJP's Sarvesh Singh.

In 2019, the seat went to the SP. The Samajwadi Party had fielded ST Hasan, who was supported by the BSP and the RLD.

Sarvesh Singh is a five-time BJP MLA from the Thakurdwara assembly constituency in Moradabad.

Eight parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh will vote in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls on April 19. These are Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina (SC), Moradabad, Rampur and Pilibhit. The counting of votes will be held on June 4.
With a menu that has seen minimal changes over decades, eschewing cutlery in favour of a hands-on dining experience, Bukhara at ITC Maurya boasts a cult following among both foreign tourists and local patrons, says PAWAN SONI

Bukhara, the iconic restaurant at ITC Maurya New Delhi, recently celebrated 45 years of success, and I had the pleasure of joining the festivities. As I immersed myself in the celebration, one question lingered on my mind: Is Bukhara truly the most iconic restaurant in India?

Bukhara undoubtedly claims this title when considering factors like its illustrious list of state head visitors and its perpetually bustling ambiance that doesnt even entertain reservations. With a menu that has seen minimal changes over four and a half decades, eschewing cutlery in favor of a hands-on dining experience, Bukhara boasts a cult following among both foreign tourists and local patrons.

What truly astonishes me is Bukharas enduring success despite unconventionalities. Despite its somewhat Spartan seating and amidst a sea of North Indian and North West Frontier eateries in the city, Bukhara maintains its allure with a limited menu. Despite high pricing at par with other five-star establishments, Bukhara continues to thrive, with my assumption of a revenue of over Rs10 crore monthly  a remarkable feat for a 130-seat restaurant focusing primarily on tandoori kebabs and Dal Makhani.

Perhaps the secret lies in its simplicity  a limited menu and unwavering consistency. In an era where maintaining consistent taste across shifts is a challenge, Bukhara has maintained the same quality of flavors for 45 years, a remarkable achievement. Servers here even recognise regulars by name, offering a personalised touch. Dishes like the Naan Bukhara, a massive naan meant for sharing, epitomize this timeless appeal and is the original OG even before instagramable became a term.

The fame of Dal Bukhara, in particular, has reached such heights that many smaller establishments now dub their own dal makhani as Dal Bukhara. But what sets Bukharas version apart? Chef JP Singh, who has dedicated 32 years to Bukhara, explains that their Dal Bukhara stands out for its low fat content  just six per cent. The slow, overnight cooking over charcoal with minimal ingredients is the secret behind its magic. I can attest to this; despite indulging in a generous portion of Dal Bukhara with my wife, we felt no heaviness, only a craving for more of its simple yet enticing flavors.

And it is not only Chef JP Singh who has spent as many years with the hotel. Anil Chadha, Chief Executive of ITC hotels, started as a management trainee and apart from his various roles including in the banquet or as the GM of ITC Maurya, he has been personally witnessing Bukharas evolution for the last 20 years.

Reflecting on a conversation with Chef Manjit Gill, former corporate chef of ITC, about Bukharas signature dishes, he remarked that for a menu as concise as theirs, each dish is a signature in its own right, crafted with utmost care and consistency. Taste may be subjective for a few patrons but one can be assured of same flavours whenever they return.

I couldnt agree more with Chef Gill. While I enjoy exploring new restaurants and their offerings, Bukhara remains a place of comfort and nostalgia, beckoning me back time and again for its unparalleled culinary experience.

(Author is a food critic and founder of the Big F Awards. He can be reached at Pawan.Soni@indianfoodfreak.com)
President Joe Biden is bringing together Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday as the three nations use their first-ever trilateral summit to try to show they are in lockstep about countering Chinas military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific.

The leaders are expected to announce that their coast guards will hold a joint patrol in the Indo-Pacific this year, a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in waters near the disputed South China Sea. The US Coast Guard will also welcome Filipino and Japanese coast guard members onto a US Coast Guard vessel during the patrol for training, according to senior Biden administration officials who insisted on anonymity to preview the talks.

The summit comes a day after Biden held one-on-one talks with Kishida and feted the Japanese premier with a glitzy state dinner at the White House, a diplomatic honour meant to recognize Tokyos growing clout on the global stage. It was also designed to send a clear signal that the Democratic administration remains determined to build what it calls a latticework of alliances in the Indo-Pacific even as it grapples with the Israel-Hamas war and Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Biden on Wednesday reflected on the fact that Japan, once a fierce US enemy, has become one of the closest American partners and an indispensable ally in a shared push for peace, security and prosperity in the Pacific and beyond.

Just a few generations ago, our two nations were locked in a devastating conflict, Biden said with Kishida by his side for a pomp-filled arrival ceremony at the White House. It would have been easy to say we remain adversaries. Instead, we made a far better choice: We became the closest of friends.

Thursdays three-way summit will also have a large economic component with several major US-based companies  including Meta, UPS and Greenbrier Energy  announcing investments in the Philippines, administration officials said. The new deals come after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited Manila last month to announce more than USD 1 billion in new investment by American companies in the Philippines.

The United States, the United Kingdom and Japan on Wednesday announced joint military exercises in the Indo-Pacific in 2025. That followed the Pentagon revealing earlier this week that the US, the UK and Australia were considering including Japan in the AUKUS partnership, a grouping launched in 2021 that aims to equip Australia with nuclear-powered and conventionally armed submarines.

Kishida is headed to Capitol Hill on Thursday for an address to US lawmakers that is expected to focus on the need to strengthen the partnership between the US and Japan at a time of tension in the Asia-Pacific and skepticism in Congress about US involvement abroad.

Administration officials have acknowledged growing concern about provocative Chinese action in the Pacific, which will be a large focus of the leaders talks. The White House sees the summit as countering Chinas attempts at intimidation and sending a message that China is the outlier in the neighbourhood, according to an administration official.

Relations between China and the Philippines have been repeatedly tested by skirmishes involving the two nations coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

The so-called gray-zone harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim. In 1999, Manila intentionally ran the World War IIera ship aground on the shoal, establishing a permanent military presence there.

Biden, in a wide-ranging phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, raised concerns about Chinas operations in the South China Sea, including efforts to impede the Philippines, which the US is treaty-obligated to defend, from resupplying its forces on the Second Thomas Shoal.

The main intent of this trilateral agreement is for us to be able to continue to flourish, to be able to help one another, and ... To keep the peace in the South China Sea and the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, Marcos told reporters before departing for Washington on Wednesday.

Chinese officials have bristled at criticism over their action in the South China Sea and blamed the US for exacerbating tensions

Countries outside the region, led by the US, have been cobbling together small groupings in the South China Sea, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Wednesday. They have been stoking confrontation in the name of cooperation, flexing muscles in the name of peace, and sowing chaos in the name of order. This is no doubt an act of hegemonism.

Biden has made improving relations with the Philippines a priority since Marcos became the countrys president in June 2022. The relationship has had ups and downs over the years and was in a difficult place when Marcos took office. Human rights groups said Marcos predecessor, Rodrigo Dutertes war on drugs resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.

Marcos, the son and namesake of the countrys former dictator, as a candidate said he would look to pursue closer ties with China. But hes increasingly drifted toward Washington amid concerns about Chinas coercive action.

Biden hosted him for talks at the White House last year, the first Washington visit by a Philippine president in more than a decade. Biden also met him on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly soon after Marcos took office, and dispatched Vice President Kamala Harris to Manila in 2022 to meet him.

Last year, the Philippines agreed to give the US access to four more bases on the islands.

Rahul Datta
Opposition lawmakers called on President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday to personally apologize for his party's defeat in this week's parliamentary elections and hold a meeting with opposition leader Lee Jae-myung.

The opposition bloc, led by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), won a landslide victory in Wednesday's elections, securing 192 seats against 108 seats won by the ruling People Power Party and its sister People Future Party in the 300-member National Assembly.

In a message issued through his chief of staff Thursday, Yoon said he would "humbly uphold the people's will shown in the general elections, reform state affairs and do my best for the economy and stabilization of people's livelihoods."

"It's hard to guess based on President Yoon's words after the elections what and how sincerely he plans to change," Rep. Kim Min-seok of the DPK said on a KBS radio show Friday. "Sharing his thoughts calmly before the people, and saying he will punish himself, is the starting point."

Rep. Min Hyung-bae of the DPK criticized Yoon on a CBS radio program, saying "the first thing he should do is to personally offer an apology for the judgment" passed by the people on his administration, not release a message through his chief of staff.

Lee Un-ju, a lawmaker-elect who won a seat in Yongin on the DPK ticket, echoed the sentiment.

"Before the start of the next National Assembly's term, the president should at least apologize and announce a road map for changing the principle of state affairs," she said on an MBC radio show. "There should also be a mass resignation by the Cabinet and a complete overhaul. It shouldn't stop at Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and several others expressing their intent to resign."

Han, presidential chief of staff Lee Kwan-sup and all the senior presidential secretaries have offered their resignations to Yoon in the wake of the election.

Yoon has also faced calls to hold what would be his first meeting with DPK leader Lee since taking office.

"President Yoon should recognize the opposition party as a partner and open the window to dialogue with the Democratic Party of Korea," Rep. Min said.

Rep. Kim Byung-joo of the DPK said Yoon should act differently from when he was his party's presidential candidate.

"Once you become president, you have to become the people's president and carry out a politics of unity and engagement," he said on a YTN radio program. (Yonhap)
President Yoon Suk Yeol is expected to give a public statement sometime after the weekend about his party's crushing defeat in the parliamentary elections, officials said Friday.

The exact way in which he will issue the statement is still undecided, though options under consideration include a press conference, an address to the nation or disclosing his remarks during a Cabinet meeting.

"Past presidents have expressed their position in some form when something like this happened," a presidential official told Yonhap News Agency. "I think he will do it once he decides what to say."

Yoon issued a message through his chief of staff Thursday, saying he will "humbly uphold the people's will" shown in the opposition's landslide victory in parliamentary elections the previous day and work to overhaul state affairs and stabilize people's livelihoods.

The opposition bloc, led by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, won 192 seats in the 300-member National Assembly, while the ruling bloc led by Yoon's People Power Party (PPP) secured only 108.

The coming weeks will also likely see the replacement of senior government and presidential officials, after Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, presidential chief of staff Lee Kwan-sup and all the senior presidential secretaries offered to resign Thursday.

Whether Yoon will accept all the resignations remains to be seen, as doing so before finding replacements would create a vacuum in the running of state affairs.

Still, the president is widely expected to accept the resignations of Han and chief of staff Lee, who has been praised for his job performance but partially blamed for the controversy surrounding the appointment of former Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup as ambassador to Australia.

The presidential office's poor handling of the controversy, which centered on allegations Lee was essentially given an excuse to flee the country while under investigation over a Marine's death, was widely cited as one of the factors that contributed to the ruling party's election defeat.

Some of the names being mentioned as the next prime minister nominee include Reps. Joo Ho-young and Kwon Young-se of the PPP, Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo and former Vice National Assembly Speaker Lee Joo-young.

Potential candidates for presidential chief of staff include PPP Rep. Chang Je-won and former Korea Communications Commission Chairman Lee Dong-kwan.

Kim Han-gil, chief of the Presidential Committee of National Cohesion, has been mentioned as a candidate for both positions.

Yoon is also expected to replace several ministers and reorganize the presidential office as part of efforts to overhaul government operations.

There have been suggestions of the need to revive the position of senior presidential secretary for civil affairs to more accurately deliver the public's voices to the president and reestablish the position of special minister for political affairs to strengthen communication between the presidential office and the National Assembly. (Yonhap)
PM nomination to indicate Yoons earnestness for change

By Nam Hyun-woo

All attention is on President Yoon Suk Yeol's pick to replace Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who offered to resign as a gesture of accountability for the ruling People Power Party's (PPP) crushing defeat in the general elections on Wednesday.

The president has not approved Han's resignation as of Friday afternoon, but sources at the presidential office said that the office is reportedly vetting possible candidates, following Yoon's comments on Thursday that he will accept the election results and cooperate with the opposition.

According to the presidential office, Friday, Yoon plans to announce his stance on the ruling party's election defeat early next week, when he is expected to disclose how he will change his way of managing state affairs.

Additionally, the replacement of key officials, including the prime minister, will be the symbolic start of such changes. Therefore, the nomination is anticipated to serve as a gauge indicating the sincerity of Yoon's pledge to cooperate with the opposition and change his stubborn and unilateral governing style.

So far, Yoon has been putting loyalty and conservative ideology at the top when naming candidates for key government positions. However, Yoon's aides are now reportedly encouraging him to pick a moderate figure with bipartisan appeal and political experience because appointing a prime minister requires approval from the National Assembly  meaning approval from the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) that has held the majority during the current 21st Assembly and will continue to do so during the next 22nd Assembly as well.

The most mentioned candidate is Kim Han-gil, chairman of the Presidential Committee of National Cohesion. Kim is a former four-term lawmaker who has led a number of DPK predecessors, and has a close relationship with Yoon.

Due to this bipartisan background, Kim has been often mentioned as Yoon's possible pick for a position requiring bipartisan support. His close ties with the president can also help keep Yoon from losing his grip on power quickly.

Appointing moderate PPP heavyweights is another option for Yoon. Rep. Joo Ho-young, who secured his sixth term during Wednesday's elections, is known for his crisis management experience, having led the ruling party as an acting leader several times before.

Rep. Kwon Young-se, who also clinched his fifth term, is categorized as a practical and moderate politician, due to his experiences of arbitrating factional infighting within the conservative bloc. Because he served as the unification minister until July last year and kept his distance from mudslinging partisan fights, political observers describe him as a balanced candidate.

Whoever Yoon nominates, a bumpy road lies ahead in obtaining the Assembly's approval, given the case of Han.

When Yoon named Han in 2022, the DPK assessed him as "an inappropriate candidate" in its confirmation hearing, but eventually gave him the nod, due to Han's background of serving as the prime minister of the previous liberal Roh Moo-hyun government.

Along with the prime minister, Yoon is anticipated to approve the resignations of several high-ranking presidential secretaries, including Chief of Staff Lee Kwan-sup.

Lee is known as one of Yoon's most trusted aides, serving as senior secretary for policy planning, director of national policy and eventually chief of staff.

He took the position in January, but sources said chances are high that Yoon will replace Lee to showcase the president's commitment to changing his governing stance.

The National Cohesion Committee chairman is also mentioned for the position, while other close associates of Yoon, such as PPP Rep. Chang Je-won and Interior Minister Lee Sang-min, are rumored to be possible picks.

Along with the chief of staff, senior presidential secretaries for political affairs and social policies are anticipated to be replaced. Except for those serving in national security, all of Yoon's senior secretaries have tendered their resignations to take responsibility for the PPP's election loss.
Influence of Na, Ahn to grow among conservatives after post-election turmoil

By Nam Hyun-woo

Fringe conservative politicians who have been marginalized after criticizing President Yoon Suk Yeol are raising their voices again after surviving the ruling People Power Party's (PPP) devastating defeat in Wednesday's general elections.

Their survival is expected to give the PPP's anti-Yoon faction a stronger political footing in the conservative bloc's efforts to salvage itself from the post-election turmoil.

Rep. Yun Jae-ok, the PPP's floor leader and acting chairman, said Friday the party will hold a meeting of senior lawmakers next week to explore ideas on "how the party will pull together after the election loss."

"If necessary, we will discuss the party's future plans with those newly elected [who are not incumbent lawmakers]," Yun said.

The participants of the meeting will be those who secured their fourth or higher terms, including Na Kyung-won and Ahn Cheol-soo.

The two both had conflicts with the president and have been marginalized from the party's mainstream, but each clinched hard-fought victories in regions with neck-and-neck races  Na in the Dongjak-B constituency in Seoul and Ahn in Bundang-A in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.

Na, who will be entering her fifth term, vied for the party's leadership last year but bowed out after suffering open protests from the presidential office and Yoon loyalists within the party, as the president was backing another candidate. The presidential office had also fired her as the vice chair of the presidential population committee.

"The future of the ruling party is in peril, and the time of painful self-scrutiny awaits," Na wrote on Facebook Thursday after confirming her victory. "I will not neglect my responsibility as a ruling party member of overseeing and checking the government."

Ahn, who claimed his fourth term, had similar experiences.

The former presidential candidate faced open criticism from Yoon loyalists and presidential secretaries that his reference to "a coalition between Yoon and Ahn" during last year's party convention had been "disrespectful to the president."

Ahn has been critical of a series of contentious policies pushed by Yoon, including the government's ongoing efforts to expand the admissions quota of medical schools.

During a radio interview with broadcaster MBC, Friday, Ahn said "all members of the Yoon cabinet should resign" to "humbly accept the public reprimand on the administration."

He also said he agrees with the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea's (DPK) plan to table a special counsel probe bill on the Yoon administration's alleged attempt to influence an investigation into a Marine's death.

Though Ahn said that he does not want to run for the party's chairmanship, speculation is growing that he and Na will play important roles in filling the PPP's leadership vacuum because the party is seeking to reassess its relationship with the president.

Minor conservative Reform Party head Lee Jun-seok's election win is also a critical blow to Yoon.

During an interview on TV Chosun, Thursday, Lee, a former PPP chairman who left the party after butting heads with Yoon, said "it is very clear that the Reform Party is an anti-Yoon party" and "my criticism, as a member of an opposition party, will be much stronger than what I did within the PPP."

Serving as the PPP chairman from 2021 to 2022, Lee assisted Yoon's victory in the 2022 presidential election and the party's wins in local elections that year. During the presidential election campaign, however, he clashed with Yoon and his loyalists, and eventually was ousted from the chairmanship in August 2022, over a sexual bribery allegation which the prosecution dismissed later. Lee left the PPP in December last year and created the Reform Party.
Companies pay close attention to DPK's stance on incentives for chip sector

By Baek Byung-yeul

The Yoon Suk Yeol administration's efforts to support the semiconductor industry may face setbacks following the ruling People Power Party's (PPP) pulverizing defeat to the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) in Wednesday's general election, according to industry officials and experts Friday.

With the opposition's decisive victory, uncertainty has clouded the future of the Yoon administration's plans to expand incentives for semiconductor companies and extend tax incentives for these companies under the so-called K-Chips Act, which will expire at the end of this year.

At Wednesday's election to choose 300 members of the National Assembly for four years from May 30 to May 29, 2028, the PPP and its satellite party for proportional representation won 108 seats combined, while the DPK and its satellite party secured 175.

The bill, originally called the Restriction of Special Taxation Act, was passed at the National Assembly in March last year. It is designed to raise the tax deduction rate for investments in national strategic technology facilities from 8 percent to 15 percent for large corporations such as Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, and from 16 percent to 25 percent for small and medium-sized enterprises.

This act has a sunset provision that requires legislative amendment for companies to continue receiving tax benefits in the following years. Earlier this year, the ruling party proposed an amendment to extend the act until 2030, but discussions have since stalled.

Industry officials and experts said that at a time when countries are rolling up their sleeves to offer substantial incentives to companies investing in their chip industries, Korea, where the semiconductor industry accounts for a significant portion of the national economy, is urged to offer more incentives to sustain national competitiveness and create jobs.

"The government has been implementing policies to support the semiconductor industry, such as the K-Chips Act and nurturing future professionals. However, the size of support is rather smaller compared to those of other countries such as the United States and Japan," an industry official in the local chip industry said on condition of anonymity. "Continuous support for the semiconductor industry is necessary to maintain competitiveness."

Kim Dae-jong, a professor of business at Sejong University, said that there should be no distinction between the ruling and opposition parties on this issue, predicting that the main opposition party would cooperate with the ruling party and the current administration.

"The opposition party is expected to agree on strengthening support for semiconductor companies. Currently, the U.S. is offering enormous support not only to its domestic company, Intel, but also to foreign companies like Samsung and TSMC that are expanding chip production facilities on its soil," Kim said.

"Regardless of party affiliation, the opposition should cooperate to ensure that semiconductor companies remain in Korea."

The professor emphasized that investments in the semiconductor industry here ultimately lead to job creation, and the country is urged to provide a favorable business environment for these companies.

"Companies are not building factories in Korea and are moving to the U.S. or Vietnam, resulting in only a 45 percent employment rate for university graduates. This is because Korea does not have a favorable business environment," he said.

"Support for chip companies should not be viewed as a privilege for large corporations. The political parties must not forget that the U.S. is also trying to attract companies like Samsung to its mainland to create more jobs."

Yoon has been strongly pushing for support for semiconductor companies, saying "the current chip competition is an industrial war and a total war between nations." A day before the general elections, the president announced that the government would invest in the AI and AI semiconductor fields until 2027 to make the country one of the top three nations in AI.

"We must have a total response system that matches a wartime situation. We will comprehensively analyze the investment environment and support systems of major countries and prepare bold support measures tailored to Korean conditions," the president said Tuesday in a meeting with chip companies.
Race heats up between local shipbuilders to enter US MRO market

By Park Jae-hyuk

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and Hanwha Ocean have intensified competition to expand their presence in the rapidly growing global naval ship market, according to industry officials, Friday.

The two Korean shipbuilders have particularly focused on the U.S. naval vessel maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) market. They have intensified their efforts to appeal to the Five Eyes, an Anglosphere intelligence alliance consisting of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S. This approach extends beyond their established customer base, which includes navies in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America.

Both companies sent officials in charge of their respective naval ship businesses to Sea Air Space 2024, the largest maritime defense expo in North America which was held in Washington, D.C., between Monday and Wednesday (local time). However, the two firms did not open exhibition booths there.

On the sidelines of the event on Tuesday (local time), HD HHI signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with GE Aerospace, an American turbine engine supplier, to develop propulsion systems. They also agreed to cooperate in MRO for exported warships and in a bid for the Royal Australian Navy frigate project.

The Korean firm signed a separate MOU the same day with L3Harris Technologies, an American defense contractor, to win submarine orders from the Royal Canadian Navy.

On April 4, HD HHI invited over 20 government officials from nine foreign countries to a signing ceremony for the delivery of a 3,000-ton diesel submarine named after famous Korean independence activist Shin Chae-ho (1880-1936) to the Republic of Korea Navy, which was hosted by the Ministry of National Defense and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration at the shipbuilders shipyard in Ulsan.

The company was also selected as the preferred bidder last month to jointly build four warships for the Peruvian Navy with the Latin American countrys state-owned shipbuilder.

We will consolidate our status as Koreas leading naval ship company by securing technologies optimized for warship exports through cooperation with global defense companies, said Joo Won-ho, head of HD HHIs naval and special ship business unit.

Hanwha Ocean invited foreign government officials including those from the U.S. and Australia to its shipyard on Geoje Island, South Gyeongsang Province, April 5, to present its submarine technologies.

With the worlds most powerful Jang Bogo-3 Batch-II submarine, we will export our submarines to Poland, Saudi Arabia, Canada and the Philippines, making efforts to enter the U.S. MRO market, a Hanwha Ocean official said.

The shipbuilder also plans to open an exhibition booth next month at the CANSEC 2024, Canadas leading defense and security event held annually in Ottawa.

Last month, the Korean firm decided to issue new shares to increase the capital of Hanwha Ocean USA Holdings by 181.8 billion won ($133 million), so that the company can expand its presence in the U.S. market. It also seeks to acquire Austal, an Australian shipbuilder and defense contractor, with the aim of receiving frigate orders from the Royal Australian Navy.

U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, who visited the shipyards of HD HHI and Hanwha Ocean in February, recognized the Korean shipbuilders for building high-quality vessels with relatively low costs.

When my team and I went to Korea, we were floored at the level of digitization and real-time monitoring of shipbuilding progress, with readily available information down to individual pieces of stock materials, he said during an event organized by the Navy League in Maryland on Tuesday (local time). Their top executives could tell us  to the day  when ships would be delivered.

He previously invited HD Hyundai Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun and Hanwha Group Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan to his office at the Pentagon. However, it remains uncertain when the two vice chairmen will fly to the U.S.
President Joe Biden said Thursday that U.S. defense commitment to Pacific allies was ironclad as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. and the Philippines have had a mutual treaty in place for more than 70 years. Biden's forceful reinforcement of the American commitment comes in the midst of persistent skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea.

The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. Theyre ironclad," Biden said as he began three-way talks at the White House with Kishida and Marcos. "As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty.

Relations between China and the Philippines have been repeatedly tested by skirmishes involving the two nations coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

The so-called gray-zone harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim. In 1999, Manila intentionally ran the World War IIera ship aground on the shoal, establishing a permanent military presence there.

Biden, in a wide-ranging phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, raised concerns about Chinas operations in the South China Sea, including efforts to impede the Philippines , which the U.S. is treaty-obligated to defend, from resupplying its forces on the Second Thomas Shoal.

Chinese officials have bristled at criticism over their action in the South China Sea and blamed the U.S. for exacerbating tensions.

No one should violate Chinas territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Thursday.

The White House billed the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines as a potent response to Chinas attempts at intimidation and sending a message that China is the outlier in the neighborhood, according to an administration official.

The leaders are also expected to announce that their coast guards will hold a joint patrol in the Indo-Pacific this year, a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in waters near the disputed South China Sea. The U.S. Coast Guard will also welcome Filipino and Japanese coast guard members onto a U.S. Coast Guard vessel during the patrol for training, according to senior Biden administration officials who insisted on anonymity to preview the talks.

The summit comes a day after Biden held one-on-one talks with Kishida and feted the Japanese premier with a glitzy state dinner at the White House, a diplomatic honor meant to recognize Tokyo's growing clout on the global stage. It was also designed to send a clear signal that the Democratic administration remains determined to build what it calls a latticework of alliances in the Indo-Pacific even as it grapples with the Israel-Hamas war and Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Biden also hosted Marcos for a private meeting at the White House ahead of the scheduled three-way talks.

"Todays summit is an opportunity to define the future that we want, and how we intend to achieve it together," Marcos said.

Thursday's three-way summit will also have a large economic component with several major U.S.-based companies  including Meta, UPS and Greenbrier Energy  announcing investments in the Philippines, administration officials said. The new deals come after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited Manila last month to announce more than $1 billion in new investment by American companies in the Philippines.

Biden also announced that the three nations were launching a a new economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment that would help develop clean energy, port, agriculture and other projects in the country. Biden said the leaders were forging a new era and predicted a great deal of history in our world will be written in the Indo-Pacific in the coming years.

The United States, the United Kingdom and Japan on Wednesday announced joint military exercises in the Indo-Pacific in 2025. That followed the Pentagon revealing earlier this week that the U.S., the U.K. and Australia were considering including Japan in the AUKUS partnership, a grouping launched in 2021 that aims to equip Australia with nuclear-powered and conventionally armed submarines.

Kishida visited Capitol Hill on Thursday for an address to U.S. lawmakers that focused on the need to strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Japan at a time of tension in the Asia-Pacific and skepticism in Congress about U.S. involvement abroad. He offered concern about the undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be.

Biden has made improving relations with the Philippines a priority since Marcos became the country's president in June 2022. The relationship has had ups and downs over the years and was in a difficult place when Marcos took office. Human rights groups said Marcos predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.

Marcos, the son and namesake of the countrys former dictator, as a candidate said he would look to pursue closer ties with China. But he's increasingly drifted toward Washington amid concerns about Chinas coercive action.

Biden hosted him for talks at the White House last year, the first Washington visit by a Philippine president in more than a decade. Biden also met him on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly soon after Marcos took office, and dispatched Vice President Kamala Harris to Manila in 2022 to meet him.

Last year, the Philippines agreed to give the U.S. access to four more bases on the islands. (AP)
A native of County Derry currently undertaking a PhD at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has created an app which aims to cut down accidents on farm grounds.

Carolyn Scott grew up on a sheep farm near Limavady and she witnessed firsthand the impact farm accidents can have on people.

In the 1970s, her grandfather sustained serious injuries while spraying a chemical substance on a farm.

My grandfather was in a farm accident before I was born. That was kind of the inspiration there before doing anything farm safety.

When spraying a chemical substance, the sprayer tank exploded, explains Carolyn.

Due to chemical poisoning, her grandfather spent several months in hospital and the accident left him with health repercussions his whole life.

Carolyn explained that her app will be used to give advice and hopefully cut down on accidents on the farm.

As part of my PhD, I met with farmers a lot. So I was hearing about all the issues they were having, all the different causes of farm accidents and I really wanted to do something like that, she said.

At the moment, Carolyn is working with three focus groups and experts to fully create her app.

However, after actively working on the app for six months, she already knows what it will include.

So my idea is that every cause or form of accident that I've identified as part of my PhD will be in a video or an interview or sort of information about [it]. So farmers can get that information really easily whenever they need it.

The app will be voice activated so farmers can speak to their phone, probably in their pocket. They'll get notifications during the slurry season. A reminder will come through and I will say maybe check everything's working.

The idea behind the app is to bring directly the information to the farmer instead of them having to search online.

For example, Carolyn explains that if farmers are looking at what age someone can drive a tractor, this information will be directly available in the app.

Farmers are just not really up there in the 21st century and in a lot of ways we ask them for everything. I just thought that that was a good thing to do, she said.

Following Carolyns data studies on accidents on farms and the latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive NI (HSENI), there have been 53 people killed on farms between January 2013 and December 2022 in Northern Ireland.

She deplores the under-reporting of accidents on farm work as some accidents that are not fatal are often not reported to the authorities.

Some of [the accidents] could be really severe, life-changing, but people are often scared to report these accidents in case you know, inspectors slammed the door or if your arms are hanging off, farmers say we'll just manage, we'll just get by.

After speaking with farmers about the app, Carolyn said the feedback is really positive and she has received a lot of ideas from them as well.

I think farmers are looking forward to a good source of information that they can trust, Carolyn said.

She aims for the app to be available at the end of 2024.

Carolyn's research was made possible thanks to funding by ATU Sligo.
A judge has described a case as 'bizarre but serious' after hearing how a man was assaulted with a Stanley knife in a Derry bar.

Philip Smith (65) of Kinsale Park in Derry appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court charged with assault on a man on August 11 last year.

The court heard that police received a report from the victim that he had been assaulted in Peadar O'Donnell's bar in Waterloo Street by a man with a Stanley knife and sustained a cut.

Police went to the bar and checked CCTV footage and identified a male.

Police then attended an address in Kinsale Park and recognised Smith as the person on the CCTV.

Smith made no comment at interview.

Defence counsel Stephen Chapman said that this was out of character for his client who can't really explain what happened.

He said it was 'very unusual behaviour' and added that Smith had no previous convictions.

Smith was sentenced to four months in prison suspended for two years and ordered to pay 750 in compensation.
As many must have expected, AI, or artificial intelligence, is now making our smart home appliances smarter. Even humble washing machines are undergoing AI transformations to become more efficient at cleansing and maintaining clothes, as well as more convenient to operate. Leading brands like LG, Samsung, IFB, Bosch, and Panasonic now offer AI-powered washing machines for Indian buyers. From remote monitoring and control via smartphone apps to innovative features like stain recognition and water reuse, these washing machines are trying hard to break the mould. Before we get to our recommendations, lets first address what you should expect when you notice the AI moniker on your washing machine.

Why do washing machines need AI?

Washing machines are using AI to optimize their wash cycles and washing patterns in accordance with the fabric being washed. Some advanced washing machines also use AI to give recommendations regarding the type and quantity of detergent to be used and some can even identify stains using image recognition. In machines with digital inverter mortars, AI can also help conserve electricity and water thus reducing environmental impact. AI can also enhance user conv

AI is still relatively new to home appliances and we expect more sophisticated use cases as the technology evolves.

What factors should you consider before buying an AI washing machine?

Select the right capacity for your family. We recommend 7KG capacity for small families. A capacity of 8KG and higher is recommended for families with 4 members or more.

Choose between front-load and top-load washing machines. Overall, front-load washing machines are better at cleaning and more resource-efficient. Top load options are relatively cheaper.

A built-in water heater is a great convenience. This can help with hygienic cleaning and also with effective cleaning of woollen clothes in winter.

Check for types of wash programs. Most washing machines will give you the option to customize wash programs according to your needs but to have useful presets is always convenient.

Check for smart connectivity. The option to operate and monitor the washing machine remotely can be a lifesaver if you have elderly people at home who are not as tech-savvy.

Top AI Washing Machines to Buy in India

Now lets get to some of the best options that you can pick from. Apart from the variants we have mentioned and linked, you can also opt for different capacity options based on the size of your family.

LG Ai Direct Drive With Wi-Fi Fully Front Load Automatic Front-Loading Washer Dryer

With a 9KG capacity, this LG washer-dryer is suitable for large families. The washing machine uses AI to detect the weight and softness of the fabric. This way, it can optimise the washing pattern to be gentle on the fabric. Its 6 Motion Direct Drive technology moves the wash drum in multiple directions for thorough cleaning without compromising fabric integrity. Additionally, you can conveniently monitor and control the machine remotely through the LG ThinQ app.

Equipped with a built-in water heater and LG Steam technology, it claims to eliminate 99.9% of viruses and allergens, such as dust mites, ensuring a hygienic wash. The 5-star rating will ensure excellent energy efficiency.

Buy Now

Also Read: Best AI ACs to Buy in India

Samsung 7 Kg Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine

This Samsung AI-powered washing machine has an AI Control feature aimed at simplifying laundry routines. This function learns user preferences over time, including frequently used cycles and laundry soil levels and suggests washing cycles and detergent recommendations based on this information. Samsungs SmartThings app offers additional features like remote control, troubleshooting assistance and cycle planning.

Samsungs EcoBubble technology uses a generator to infuse detergent with air to create a thick cushion of bubbles that help with even and effective cleaning. The company offers 20 years of warranty on its digital inverter motor capable of reaching up to 1200 rpm. Hygienic steam cleaning and drum cleaning are also supported.

Buy Now

IFB 7 Kg 5 Star AI Powered Fully Automatic Front Load Washing Machine

This is an energy-efficient and feature-loaded washing machine from IFB that is equipped with AI smarts and is suitable for medium-sized families with up to 4 members. Utilizing AI technology, it employs a neural network-based algorithm to accurately detect fabric type and weight, adjusting wash duration, water level, and wash actions accordingly to ensure gentle treatment of fabrics. The washing machine has an inbuilt water heater and supports thorough steam cleaning. It has a 1000 RPM motor to quickly dry clothes. Other highlights include protective rat mesh, 8 wash programs, and a crescent moon drum that is gentle on the fabric. IFB provides an extensive 4-year comprehensive warranty along with a 10-year warranty for the motor.

Buy Now

Bosch 8 kg 5 Star Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine

This fully automatic front-load Bosh washing machine uses AI ActiveWater Plus to optimize water usage during each wash cycle. AI algorithms take input from sensors to determine the optimal of water required for thorough cleaning. The technology aims to avoid water wastage during washing in order to reduce environmental impact. With an 8 kg capacity, its suitable for families with 4 to 5 members. Apart from conserving water, this washing machine will also help conserve electricity as is evident from the 5-star energy rating. The motor can operate at 1400 RPM which ensures better water extraction for faster drying. Its stainless steel VarioDrum allows for gentle washing and intensive stain removal.

Buy Now

Panasonic 7 Kg Wifi Fully-Automatic Top Loading Smart Washing Machine

This smart Wi-Fi-enabled washing machine from Panasonic works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. The AI-powered Wash Wizard customize wash cycles based on fabric type, colour, and dirt level. There is also an interesting Stain Genius feature that provides pre-treatment recommendations for various stains using image recognition technology. The MirAie app enables remote control, service requests, and monitoring of energy and water consumption. Panasonic also adds the ability to reuse water which can reduce consumption by up to 23 percent. Other notable highlights include an anti-tangling system for gentle washing, maintenance alerts, and a soft closing lid.

Buy Now
China: Political settlement only viable way out of Ukraine crisis

Xinhua) 11:24, April 12, 2024

Geng Shuang (C, front), China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a Security Council meeting on the situation in Ukraine, at the UN headquarters in New York, on April 11, 2024. A Chinese envoy said Thursday that political settlement is the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, April 11 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy said Thursday that political settlement is the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis.

Fighting in Ukraine is still ongoing. The humanitarian situation is growing dire. The risks of spillover continue to emerge. China finds the conflict getting complicated and protracted a cause for concern, said Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations.

Continued fighting will only aggravate the suffering of innocent civilians in Ukraine and bring more unpredictable risks and challenges to the region and the world, he warned.

"There are no winners in conflicts or wars. Political settlement represents the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis," he told the Security Council. "China once again calls on the parties concerned to engage in direct dialogue and negotiation, take the first step toward political settlement, jointly promote the de-escalation of the situation, and achieve a cease-fire as soon as possible. The international community should intensify its efforts and actively create conditions for this."

On the Ukraine issue, China has always followed an objective and impartial position and has always advocated talks for peace, said Geng.

China has always maintained that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be observed, the legitimate security concerns of all countries should be taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis should be supported. China will continue to maintain communication with all parties and play a constructive role in promoting a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, he said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Last year Germany launched a strategy to "de-risk" from China, but on Saturday Chancellor Olaf Scholz starts a high-stakes visit there hoping to shore up ties at a delicate point with the U.S. and EU threatening to hammer Chinese goods in subsidy rows.

With the German economy in the doldrums, its companies are pressing for fairer access to a Chinese market which they say still favours local firms despite promises to the contrary.

At the same time, China is likely to press Berlin not to back threatened European Union measures against its cars, solar and wind park equipment that Brussels feels are being dumped on its market too cheaply.

China's own economy is also struggling, hit by another ratings outlook downgrade this week and with its factories blamed for producing more goods than they can sell locally.

Looming over the visit is the prospect of the return of Donald Trump to the White House, who has threatened to hike trade tariffs on all countries including Germany.

With U.S. aid to Kyiv looking potentially shakier, Scholz will press China on its support for Russia's wartime economy two years into its invasion of Ukraine.

"The Europeans urgently need to clarify how they can position themselves as a pole between the USA and China and not be crushed between their conflicts," said Maximilian Butek, the head of the German Chamber of Commerce in eastern China.

In blunt language, German officials on Friday said Beijing's support and exports to Russia were enabling Moscow to wage a war of aggression in Ukraine and causing a "growing loss of reputation for China" in Europe and beyond.

However, they also said Beijing could play a positive role in cooling tensions in the Middle East.

While insisting it does not want to "decouple," Scholz's government has become wary of tethering Germany to the Chinese economy after the invasion of Ukraine exposed Europe's reliance on Russian gas and fuelled a cost-of-living crisis.

Germany coordinated the visit with the United States, France and the European Commission.

Scholz is set to press China to make good on its pledge to level the playing field for companies, who say they are still waiting for concrete steps, and three studies published this week highlight concerns.

One study showed nearly two-thirds of companies feel discriminated against in the Chinese market.

A second by the Kiel Institute estimated China's subsidies for its firms range between three to nine times that of other major economies.

And yet efforts to diversify from China have been patchy, a third study showed, and other measures, such as moves by Berlin to curb use of Huawei equipment from German networks, have yet to materialise.

Scholz's government last July produced a 64-page strategy document outlining China's increasing assertiveness, "unfair practices" and the risks to supply chains in a potential conflict over Taiwan.

"The Americans and the Europeans are loading the gun, meaning they're preparing for dumping cases and so forth," said Joerg Wuttke, former president of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China.

"I think Scholz will mention it, I think the Chinese response will be: thank you very much, but there is no overcapacity. And nothing gets resolved."

Scholz takes with him CEOs of some leading companies, such as Siemens, and three cabinet ministers, underscoring Beijing's importance.

Shi Yinhong, Professor at the School of International Studies, Renmin University of China said it was important for Beijing to win over Germany in the face of an EU push to curb China's green energy exports.

"Making Germany  which has been inclined to follow its allies in China-related trade restrictions but is still quite hesitant and slow  oppose it in this period is really important for China's rearguard actions."

Scholz will travel to Shanghai, Chongqing, and Beijing, where he will meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.

Mikko Huotari, head of the Merics Institute in Berlin, calls it a "re-engaging" and stabilising of relations. He urged Scholz to emphasise that Germany has a special role within the EU and does not want Brussels to take tough action in trade disputes.

Economy Minister Robert Habeck and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, who last year angered Beijing by calling President Xi a "dictator," are likely to visit China next.

While German businesses are wary of the impact an escalating trade war could have on their own investments' in the world's second biggest economy, the EU also faces a dilemma. Cheap Chinese solar and wind imports, for example, could help it achieve its climate goals, but damage local industries.

"I think all sides are lacking trust, so the visit is seen as a good sign from the Chinese," German Chamber of Commerce's Butek said.

"We insist on open markets because this is essential to our survival. The price of losing the market here is way too high than what we gain from import tariffs on Chinese goods." (Reuters)
CATL unveils revolutionary energy storage system amid market volatility

Amidst the tumult of the lithium battery industry, Chinese EV battery giant CATL has once again made waves with the launch of its groundbreaking energy storage system, "Tianheng." As the energy storage market navigates through storms of pricing pressures and aggressive bidding, CATL's move promises to shake up the status quo.

In 2023, the lithium battery sector grappled with issues of excess capacity and pricing wars, prompting a wave of industry consolidation and strategic realignments. To break away from the red ocean, several companies explored new avenues such as overseas expansion and the development of cutting-edge technologies to sustain growth momentum.

Looking ahead over the next 10 to 15 years, emerging energy storage technologies, including lithium-ion, flow, sodium-ion batteries, and advanced compressed air systems, are set to dominate the landscape. Market leaders like CATL, BYD, EVE Energy, and Gotion High-tech are ramping up their efforts in the energy storage sector, poised for a race to dominance.

During the unveiling event, CATL underscored the significance of energy storage as a key growth driver for the company's future. According to its 2023 financial report, CATL's revenue from energy storage battery systems surged by 33.17% annually to approximately CNY59.9 billion, far outpacing the overall revenue growth rate.

With energy storage battery systems accounting for approximately 15% of CATL's total revenue, there is ample room for expansion. CATL's robust sales figures for power batteries and energy storage battery systems, reaching 321 GWh and 69 GWh respectively, reflecting growth rates of 32.56% and 46.81% respectively, signaling a clear strategic focus on the burgeoning energy storage market.

"Tianheng," a state-of-the-art energy storage system boasting a 2-year zero attenuation and mass production capability, marks a significant milestone in the industry. With its impressive energy density of 430Wh/L, Tianheng addresses key challenges associated with high-activity lithium metal in zero-attenuation batteries, setting a new standard for longevity and performance.

In a competitive landscape where price is only one factor, CATL's emphasis on developing technologies to rival fossil and other alternative energy storage solutions underscores the company's commitment to innovation and market leadership. As CATL and other industry players race to capture market share in the dynamic energy storage sector, the stage is set for a new era of innovation and competition.
South Korea accelerates semiconductor strategy post-Taiwan quake

In the wake of a seismic event rattling Taiwan, and amidst the dawn of the AI era, South Korea's governmental bodies and corporate giants have convened to assess supply chain vulnerabilities. This gathering aims to fast-track the Semiconductor Mega Cluster (SMC) project in South Korea, compelling a comprehensive overhaul of tax relief mechanisms.

As per reports from South Korean media outlets Money Today and Yonhap News Agency, President Yoon Suk-yeol presided over a high-level meeting to deliberate on global semiconductor supply chain dynamics, progress on the SMC initiative, and policy advocacy for AI-driven semiconductor innovations, spurred by recent events including the earthquake in Taiwan.

Distinguished attendees encompassed not only governmental authorities such as the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), and other key ministries but also corporate titans including Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, Naver, and Sapeon Korea, a prominent AI chip developer.

While external factors like the earthquake in Taiwan have thus far had limited repercussions on South Korea's semiconductor landscape, uncertainties linger.

Meanwhile, Samsung and SK Hynix made a resounding joint announcement in January 2024, pledging a staggering investment of KRW622 trillion (approximately US$470 billion) for establishing the SMC in South Korea. Following the conclave, the South Korean government vowed to bolster budgetary support, elevating support thresholds for various industrial parks from 5-30% to 15-30%.

Samsung's blueprint entails the construction of the System Semiconductor Cluster in Yongin, South Korea, with investments potentially soaring to KRW360 trillion by 2047. Furthermore, Samsung plans additional investments of KRW120 trillion for creating the Hwaseong Semiconductor Cluster and KRW20 trillion won for the Next-generation Semiconductor R&D Cluster. Notably, the Yongin Semiconductor Cluster is set to leverage South Korean government protocols such as environmental impact assessments and land compensation schemes to streamline construction timelines significantly.

Conversely, SK Hynix envisions the establishment of a memory cluster in Yongin's Yeonsan district, with investments peaking at KRW122 trillion by 2045. However, apart from securing 270,000 tons of water, SK Hynix anticipates a commensurate uptick in water demand. Thus, once corporate entities and South Korean local administrations devise water supply blueprints, they will promptly finalize water provisioning strategies.

Furthermore, in response to global "subsidy wars," the South Korean government has introduced its own version of the Chip Act to foster investment in cutting-edge technology. While this initiative offers tax relief incentives for facility investments, the preferential treatment for facility investment tax deductions is slated to lapse by the end of 2024. The South Korean government endeavors to prolong tax relief incentives and expedite the formulation of investment stimulus measures.

With the AI epoch looming large, South Korea has set its sights on emerging as one of the preeminent global AI powerhouses. President Yoon Suk-yeol has unveiled ambitious plans to channel KRW9.4 trillion into AI and AI semiconductor domains by 2027. Furthermore, to catalyze the growth of innovative AI chip enterprises, a fund worth approximately KRW1.4 trillion is slated for establishment.

The MSIT and MOTIE have mapped out strategies to channel national research and development efforts toward AI semiconductor technological breakthroughs, while simultaneously ramping up investment support to nurture the entire AI semiconductor value chain. Moreover, the South Korean government is slated to host the Seoul AI Summit in May 2024, poised to bolster South Korea's global leadership in shaping AI ethics regulations.
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Irish premier Simon Harris has said that the point at which Ireland and Spain can recognise the State of Palestine is coming much closer.

He made the comments following a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at Government Buildings in Dublin on Friday afternoon.

The pair discussed the recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Mr Harris saying that Ireland would move with Spain and other EU countries when the time is right.

On Tuesday, Irish deputy premier Micheal Martin said he is bringing a formal proposal to the Government after working with other countries on a joint declaration to formally recognise Palestinian statehood.

It is the second time Mr Harris and Mr Sanchez have met this week, after the Taoiseach travelled to Brussels on Thursday.

I want this afternoon to pay tribute to all those working so hard to try to bring about an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages, including through the talks in Cairo, facilitated by the US, Qatar and Egypt, Mr Harris said.

At last months meeting of the European Council, Ireland and Spain, together with Malta and Slovenia, said that we were ready to do so when the conditions are right.

Let me this evening say our assessment is that that point is coming much closer and we would like to move together in doing so.

The people of Palestine have long sought the dignity of their own country and sovereignty.

A home that like Ireland and Spain can take its place amongst the nations of the Earth.

When we move forward, we would like to do so with as many others as possible to lend weight to the decision and to send the strongest message.

The people of Israel deserve a secure and peaceful future. So do the people of Palestine. Equal sovereignty, equal respect, in a region where people of all faiths and all traditions live together in peace.

Mr Harris also said it was possible to condemn the Hamas attack on October 7 and call for the unconditional release of the remaining hostages, and to also want to see a two-state political solution.

This week, Israels ambassador to Ireland Dana Erlich claimed that the Irish Governments push to recognise Palestinian statehood is rewarding terrorism.

Its entirely possible to call out the horrors that the State of Israel suffered at the hands of Hamas whilst also saying that there must now be an immediate cessation of violence, Mr Harris said.

The scenes that were seeing in Gaza in terms of hunger, thirst, mutilation, death of innocent children, women, men, the destruction of so much civilian infrastructure, hospitals, schools, homes, has to stop.

The only way forward here is for a political peace process that brings about the two-state solution for which Ireland has been so long committed, as I know Spain has as well.

Speaking after the bi-lateral meeting, Mr Sanchez said he wanted to thank Mr Harris and his predecessor Leo Varadkar for their leadership.

We need leaders who are committed to peace, justice, human rights, and welfare  inside and outside of European boundaries, he added.

We know that the situation in the Gaza Strip is terrible and that we cant see signs of improvement.

He said that Ireland and Spain agree on the urgency for an immediate ceasefire and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza as well as the release of hostages in Gaza.

We also agree that it is vital to reach a political solution that brings peace and stability to the region and that solution must recognise the living together of two states, Palestinian and Israeli states, he added.

We, internationally, will not be able to help Palestine unless we recognise its existence and so we, both countries, have agreed to recognise Palestine as a state publicly, as soon as possible, when conditions are right.

We commit to support the recognition of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations for two reasons.

First to give a message of hope, hope for the millions of people in Gaza, Palestine and in the region who are suffering.

Secondly, because we want to show the world that in Europe, there are people who defend the international rules and order in all cases across the board.

He said he wants to see a peace process that will bring prosperity and peace to the Israelis and Palestinians.

As of now, we cannot outline a timeline, were in uncharted territory but in these circumstances if we continue on the current path it will bring more conflict, more hatred, and more problems so we have to move forward, Mr Sanchez added.
Micheal Martin has said there are very significant differences between Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein, but avoided ruling out a future coalition with the main opposition party.

The Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader said that policy has to be the bottom line and his party cannot go into government with Sinn Fein if it maintains positions such as its approach to the EU.

He was speaking at the start of the 82nd Fianna Fail Ard Fheis conference in Dublin, where he said that the focus would be on the cost of living, public services and challenges for farmers.

Mr Martin accused Sinn Fein of having very significant capacity to flip flop, to U-turn to an alarming degree on various issues, including on whether to call for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador.

He launched a retaliation of a speech by Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald at Arbour Hill where she accused Fianna Fail of being far too deferential to the EU, and that her party would back policies when they are good for Ireland.

Mr Martin said Sinn Fein was an anti-EU party that dont get the European Union.

He also accused the party of antics this week on the EU migration and asylum pact, an overhaul of Europes immigration system, and criticised the party for its opposition to the Canada-EU trade agreement Ceta.

He said: As far as Im concerned, we cant go into government with Sinn Fein if it maintains policy positions like the one its maintained on Europe, like its flip flopping on the whole area around the Middle East, for example.

One week, they were calling for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador, they came under pressure in Belfast, the following week, they were putting down motions for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador  to me, revealing a party that doesnt get government and the importance of diplomacy.

Responding to criticisms from ex-minister and Fianna Fail TD Willie ODea, Mr Martin said he would be consulted with on the issue, as would the remainder of the party as well.

Im very clear that policy has to be the bottom line, he added.

He said: When you go through it policy by policy, youll find very significant differences between Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein, and indeed other parties on the far left as well, and thats the basis upon well make a decision on that.

In an opening speech to Fianna Fail delegates on Friday evening, Mr Martin again took aim at Sinn Fein, accusing them of spending 90% of their time attacking government parties in aggressive and often personal terms.

In the case of Sinn Fein, we have the most cynical and destructive opposition in our history, he said.

Covering other issues, Mr Martin said his party was building a strong record of delivery in the coalition government with Fine Gael and the Green Party.

He said that in four years, the government had delivered more homes than in the previous nine years combined, but admitted we must and we are going further, and that there is much more to be done.

Asked about a future general election, Mr Martin said that politicians should not be complacent about elections, but added: Once the election starts, it takes on a dynamic all of its own.

A Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll last weekend indicated that Sinn Fein is on 26% and Fianna Fail is on 16%.

Fine Gael is on 21%, the Green Party is on 4%, the Social Democrats are on 6%, Aontu is on 4%, Labour is on 3% and People Before Profit is on 2%.

The independents are pooling 17% of the vote, the largest percentage-point increase since the last opinion poll.
Niall McCreanor, a Social Democrats candidate for the upcoming local elections in the Ardee Local Electoral Area (LEA), has formally raised pressing concerns regarding broadband accessibility, through party spokesperson Jennifer Whitmore, to Minister Eamon Ryan, the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications.

In a detailed question submitted to the Minister, Mr McCreanor has called for immediate measures to ensure that residents of Ardee, particularly those in Cherrybrook Estate, are not left behind in Ireland's drive toward digital inclusivity. This query highlights what he says are the ongoing struggles faced by many residents awaiting fibre broadband installation and seeks accountability from those responsible for delivering these essential services.

"The lack of sufficient broadband access is not just an inconvenience; it's a barrier to education, business, and connectivity," stated McCreanor. "In our national effort to ensure digital inclusivity, it is crucial that no community, especially those already digitally disadvantaged, is left behind."

In response, Minister Ryan referred to the government's ambitious targets set under Ireland's Digital Connectivity Strategy. He stated, "By the end of 2026, all premises in the intervention areas, including many in Ardee, will have access to high-speed broadband. Meanwhile, commercial operators like Open Eir are working to deliver services in areas already covered commercially."

Furthermore, Minister Ryan detailed the existing infrastructure developments, including the completion of 955 Strategic Connection Points across the country, improving broadband speeds significantly at public and educational facilities.

Despite these reassurances, Mr McCreanor emphasised the need for ongoing vigilance and active management to ensure that the promises made are promises kept. "While plans are well-articulated, residents need more than just promises. They need tangible progress and a clear timeline of when these improvements will materialise in their daily lives," he added.

For residents within the zoned BLUE area of Ardee who find their broadband speeds lacking, Mr McCreanor advises contacting their service providers or using the DECC webform to escalate the issue. This approach, he adds, ensures that community members are directly involved in advocating for better service.

Niall McCreanor says he remains committed to addressing the needs of Ardee residents and will continue to advocate for enhanced digital infrastructure that supports local growth and connectivity.
Each year Irish Life nominates and votes for two Irish Life staff charity partners and set about fundraising for the year and this year Paige Gernon of the Dundalk office will be doing her bit.

This year their charity partners are the Down Syndrome Centre North-East and The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) and on 26 April 2024 (workplace Wellbeing Day) Paige, who nominated the Down Syndrome centre, will walk from 8am  4pm stopping only briefly after every couple of loops.

Each loop is 50 minutes to walk and will start and finish at the front door of our Dundalk office.

Paiges niece Robyn inspired her to nominate the Down Syndrome Centre North-East as she uses the centre & its amazing facilities on a weekly basis.

She used speech & language therapy & schools readiness classes every week, she also attends summer camps and much more.

Not only is the centre a great support for Robyn but it has also been a massive support to the family especially Robyns parents, Stephen & Niamh.

Robyn has been such an inspiration to Paige over the last four years and her determination amazes her every day.

Paige says, It is such a pleasure to be a part of the staff charities group, it gives a real sense of accomplishment & everyone has been so supportive so far this year and she is truly looking forward to all the events in the coming year ahead.

The Dundalk office will have donation buckets, a gofundme link and card machine here on the day for people to donate for the event. https://gofund.me/6d7d4c5e

Last year they raised 5,555 for ChildVision and the Gavin Glynn Foundation & have set a challenge to try to beat it this year.

Both charities will be there on the morning and will talk to staff about their charity, the great work they do and what it means to partner with us.

Some of the kids from the Down Syndrome Centre North-East will hopefully be here on the day to say hello too.

There are approx. 200 staff working in the Irish Life Centre in Dundalk and five of their Staff will join Paige on each loop to support her along the way.
Activists have delivered a letter to the Department of Integration offices in Dublin, calling for action and accommodation for homeless asylum seekers.

The group was joined by TDs to submit the letter demanding that the minister, Roderic OGorman, adopt a more humane, proactive, effective and equitable approach to resolving the lack of accommodation.

Around 150 tents have been pitched outside the International Protection Office (IPO) on Mount Street because there is no accommodation available.

Last month, a large group of asylum seekers was moved by authorities from the makeshift camp at the IPO to Crooksling in south-west Dublin.

Mahmoud Al-Azab, a Palestinian from Jordan, said there needs to be a solution found.

Speaking outside the department, he said: We have chosen Ireland because we know exactly how much Irish people respect human rights.

An Irish court previously said that keeping people in tents is illegal and is against human rights and against international law.

We need a solution. We have nothing. Once again we need all our rights here recognised according to international rights including accommodation and to keep our dignity.

Labour leader Ivana Bacik said it was distressing seeing the conditions people are being forced to live in.

The lack of sanitation, the lack of provision, but crucially the lack of provision of alternative accommodation, she added.

I have been engaging with the Department of Integration seeking the provision of alternative accommodation for those who have come here seeking refuge and have not been provided with shelter.

We have seen numbers creeping up, we saw Crooksling provided, we worked with the department to improve the conditions at Crooksling to ensure it is a decent alternative.

People are being forced to sleep in conditions that no one in Ireland should be forced to sleep in in Ireland.

We are calling on the minister to provide alternative accommodation.

People Before Profit TD Brid Smith said: Whether they are Irish or migrant, everyone deserves a place to live, they deserve a roof over their heads, they deserve safety.

Whats unique and shocking about this is that this is the second encampment prior to move to Crooksling. Theres over 150 tents at Mount Street now.

The sight of it is shocking, particularly the absence of any sanitation facilities.

People are confined to a space that is dangerous, dirty and unhealthy and it is a very shocking way to treat human beings.

Stephen Roche, of Social Rights Ireland, said: The impression we are getting is that the department is out of its depth, its hiding from the problem, its not even implementing bad solutions, its implementing no solutions.

The letter that we presented today outlines the deteriorated situation for all concerned, first those forced to sleep outside the IPO, secondly for the residents who have an encampment outside their doors and the volunteers who have been left to stop the gaps left by the government.
EVEN though 50-year-old Tracy Connolly has done a lot already, she says she still has more to do!

Tracy, who grew up on Ashburton Hill, Cork, like her late dad, has already made a big contribution to her country, serving 23 years in the Irish Army retiring as corporal.

Dad was a true Irish hero who we have yet to speak more about.

Im now a veteran! says Tracy, who lives in Killavullen.

It only feels like yesterday I joined the army! I made great friends, and we celebrate a 30-year re-union of our recruit platoon in April this year.

Tracy has also made a big contribution to the arts. She recently launched her third poetry book, Remedies of Poetry, and is working on an album. Nothingness is one of her songs that is nominated for the Red Carpet Awards in Europe later this year.

Tracy Connolly.

How did the Cork woman achieve all this thus far in her life?

Growing up, I took a big interest in music, says Tracy, a mother of one.

I guess I was writing it down since I was very young, and at the age of 13, I joined the Mayfield Brass Band after seeing it advertised in school. I learnt how to read music and play the trumpet. I played and toured with the band, says Tracy.

I joined Cork School of Music Band later on. I always fancied playing the saxophone and it wasnt long before I progressed into the 22 piece jazz band there.

Every year we would take to the stage in the Metropole, and there was such a buzz about it. We also toured abroad to Rennes in France which was a great experience for a young person. Later, after this, I joined a five- piece band called The Dukes. I toured with them for three years as a wedding band.

What did music do for Tracy?

Music gives you hope, courage and confidence, and a secure feeling of belonging within a group.

Whilst working as a female security guard part-time while in college, Tracy decided to apply for the army. She got in with seven other females and 28 men.

It was a game-changer, says Tracy.

The hardest moments of my life lay ahead.

Other things lay ahead for the ambitious young woman.

After retiring from the army, Im happy to help veterans in need and homeless veterans, says Tracy.

Tracy Connolly.

I was one of the first females to be elected onto the Board of Directors of Ogliagh Naisiunta na hEireann. Today I speak on heritage sites; Im always finding new ways to evolve. So Im not done yet and who knows where Ill end up. Life is a surprise!

When Tracy had left the army, she had qualified in a Major healthcare Support Award 10 modules, 10 distinctions, which allowed her to work in any hospital up and down the country. She put both her military training and healthcare training to work.

Then the pandemic hit.

Even though I had a true passion towards helping people, I was drawn to writing poetry where later it would start evolving into song.

It felt like some kind of calling.

I immediately set up a poetry page and people just started following me!

Tracy cheered people up at their lowest.

You could unwind or solve any problem you were having by visiting my page, says Tracy.

Tracy Connolly. Picture David Creedon

It was something to look forward to as we had nothing else to keep us upbeat. News was constantly negative, but I found a way to turn it around.

Tracy joined all the social media platforms. She believed in herself and in her words.

I believe you will always be found if you just persevere, says Tracy.

I was published with my first book of poetry in December, 2020, Poetsbelief On Lockdown. What an amazing feeling that was!

Tracy went on to publish two more books of poetry; A Message From Poetsbelief and Remedies of Poetry.

Tracys poetry started to go into song.

Im working on my debut album at the moment, I have six songs released so far, and my goal is to complete a full album.

JP McNamara on C103 North has supported my music from the very beginning.

Tracy Connolly.

Tracy composes her own songs, then she gets them arranged and they are enhanced for release.

Its a one-girl show!

The apple doesnt fall far from the tree.

My daughter loves music too, says Tracy.

She is a music critique.

Before I put out a song, it has to be listened to by her, says Tracy.

She is my best critique!

Tracy has somebody else to champion her.

Padraig, my fiance, drives me on to be a better person in life, says Tracy.

Hes there in the background, always praising and always pushing me to dream big.

A wedding is in the offing.

Recently we got our wedding bands blessed in Tenerife.

The Red Carpet Awards in Europe in September where Tracy is up for six awards is online this year.

When I submitted my song, Nothingness, for consideration, I didnt think Id be nominated for six of my songs in different categories. Its great to be in the final.

I love writing songs and hearing the notes. Everything just flows like its meant to.

Tracy, having achieved so much already, looks to the future.

I hope in the future I will be found for my music and maybe one day someone will believe in my passion for it too, she says.

I will continue to write for the rest of my life as it gives myself and others solace in an unpredictable world.

Find Tracy on social @poetsbelief and https:// www.facebook.com/poetsbelief
FORMER workers at Debenhams have said they hope the decision this week by the Labour Court to award each of them four weeks pay marks the end of what has been a four-year ordeal for them.

About 800 former workers, almost 300 of them from Cork, are subject to the Labour Court decision, which found in favour of a claim by the Mandate Trade Union that the consultation process with the workers did not commence in good time, as required by law.

The Labour Court found that the delay in establishing the consultation process until after liquidators were appointed limited the options available in terms of reaching an agreement.

Workers had initially asked for 16 weeks pay, and last year they had been awarded eight weeks pay, which was appealed by the liquidators, and has now been reduced to four weeks pay by the Labour Court.

Former shop steward at Debenhams on Patrick St in Cork Valerie Conlon said it was a little disappointing that the amount had been reduced to four weeks, but she said staff were still happy.

Ms Conlon said she hopes this will not be appealed.

In April 2020, about 1,000 Debenhams workers at 11 stores were informed by email that their jobs were gone.

The mail informed staff that they should contact their local social protection office, or citizens advice centre, and it said that they would not receive redundancy payments agreed in 2016.

In that agreement, the company had committed to paying two weeks ex-gratia pay per year of service, plus the legal minimum statutory two weeks of pay.

Workers took direct action, mounting picket lines which they maintained for 406 days during the pandemic, demanding that the terms of the 2016 redundancy agreement be honoured.

The strike eventually came to an end in May 2021 when a proposal for a 3m training fund for the workers was put to a ballot, and was accepted by a majority.

Ms Conlon said that the Labour Court decision had come a day after the fourth anniversary of the initial Debenhams email.

We got the result of this, so were hoping that this will be closure on this.

We would have liked to have got more, but this has to end at some stage and we are all hoping that this will be the end of it, Ms Conlon said.

Socialist Party and Solidarity TD for Cork North Central Mick Barry congratulated the Debenhams workers.

Of course, this represents only a fraction of what they deserve and what they should have got if liquidation law in this country wasnt so biased against workers, Mr Barry said.

If this Dail doesnt let my Debenhams bill pass all stages I will be making it an issue in the general election, he said.

KPMG said the matter was now being dealt with by Interpath Advisory, and when contacted, an Interpath spokesperson said nobody was available to comment.
A CORK TD has welcomed the announcement by Housing Minister Darragh OBrien of funding for 51 new cost rental homes in Cork City.

The homes will be situated in Lotamore, and are part of a funding approval of over 100m announced by Mr OBrien to deliver 547 new cost rental homes to five local authorities.

The announcement was welcomed by Padraig OSullivan, Fianna Fail TD for Cork North Central.

This is great news for Cork North Central, and it is great to see Cork City Council at the forefront of delivering cost rental homes in the city, Mr OSullivan said.

This development comes as part of the Governments Housing for All programme, which seeks to provide affordable homes to purchase and rent, and it shows our commitment to tackling the housing crisis.

Cost rental homes are aimed at people on middle incomes who are constrained by rents in the private rental market, but who do not meet the income criteria for social housing support.

Under the cost rental scheme, rents are set at a minimum of 25% below comparable market rates for the area with some developments achieving discounted rates of up to 50%.

Through these reduced rates, cost rental seeks to address the affordability challenges faced by some people in the housing market, and to help individuals and families to find homes that meet their needs and budget.

To qualify for cost rental housing, an applicants net household income must be below 66,000 per annum in Dublin and 59,000 for everywhere else.

Mr OBrien said affordable cost rental homes delivered to date had been extremely popular, with most schemes oversubscribed.

The high demand is a clear indication of the success of this form of housing and the effectiveness of our cost-rental approach.

Its vital that we scale up supply, and approvals such as these are ensuring we can do just that, the housing minister said.

Cost rental means affordable rents .

It means security of tenure, it means top-quality homes and perhaps most importantly it means peace of mind for tenants, allowing them to establish roots in an area and plan for the future.

In addition to the 51 new cost rental homes in Lotamore, the funding announced by Mr OBrien will provide for the development of 28 homes in Co Laois, 25 in Kildare, 25 in Kilkenny city, and 417 in Dublin City.

Mr OBrien said over 675m had already been approved to assist in the delivery of over 3,250 cost rental homes in 12 local authorities.

Todays announcement serves as an additional boost to the pipeline of new, cost rental homes, he said.
A Ukrainian refugee in Cork accused of dangerous driving causing the death of a fellow Ukrainian man with whom she had been socialising in the city pleaded guilty today to a charge of careless driving causing his death.

Prosecution barrister Donal OSullivan said this guilty plea by Kseniia Vasylenko was acceptable to the state.

The accused woman was then remanded in custody by Judge Helen Boyle for sentencing in a fortnight on April 26.

A victim impact statement is to be prepared by the family of the deceased. Defence barrister Peter OFlynn asked for the preparation of a governors report from the prison.

She has been in custody since the time of the incident (October 2023) and doing extremely well. She is an enhanced prisoner. And I would ask for a governors report, Mr OFlynn said at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

The original charge in the book of evidence against Ms Vasylenko concerned the allegation that she dangerously drove a Hyundai Alantra car at Cork Airport causing the death of Andrii Nesterov, who was aged around 50, after 2 a.m. on Sunday morning, last October 8 2023.

It was alleged that she was driving the Hyundai car owned by the deceased and that her driving was dangerous, resulting in his death.

43-year-old Kseniia Vasylenko with an address at Cork Airport hotel has now pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of careless driving causing death.

When she initially applied for bail she said her husband was still in Ukraine working in IT and working with the resistance in this capacity. She said she had been working with the local authority in central Ukraine and was now living in Cork with her five-year-old son and her mother.

I did not want to leave my country. I love my country. I made the decision to come here to save my life and the life of my son. I came across Poland, Romania, Moldova, to Dublin City West to here. I have been in Cork since December 2022. I have been in the airport hotel accommodation centre, the accused said.
Two youths have been arrested following what the garda press office described as an incident of criminal damage at a sportsground in Ballincollig on Thursday.

It is understood that pitches at both Ballincollig GAA Club and Ballincollig AFC were damaged in incidents which occurred on Thursday afternoon.

Ballincollig GAA Club said on social media that the club received such wonderful support from the Ballincollig community and volunteers and said the incident had left the club disappointed and disillusioned.

The club thanked local people who had alerted the gardai, and it thanked gardai for their swift response, adding lets continue to look after each other.

In a statement on social media, Ballincollig AFC similarly thanked the clubs neighbours and praised what it called the efficient response from An Garda Siochana.

Sinn Fein local election candidate in Cork City South West, Joe Lynch, described what had occurred as an utter disgrace.

Both clubs do incredible work with young people in Ballincollig and ... I extend my solidarity to the hard-working, dedicated volunteers and members of both clubs, Mr Lynch said.

The incident occurred days after Ballincollig AFC secured a lease on its grounds, after over two decades of uncertainty.

The garda press office said: Gardai are investigating an incident of criminal damage that occurred at a sportsground in Ballincollig, Co. Cork on April 11, 2024, at approximately 5pm.

Two male youths were arrested at the scene. Investigations are ongoing.

There is no further information available at this time.
The jury in the trial of a Ukrainian national who denies dangerous driving causing the death of GAA broadcaster Paudie Palmer at Innishannon at Christmas time in 2022 were told by the presiding judge that they should not engage in amateur detective work as the case was adjourned for the weekend.

Judge Jonathan Dunphy gave this warning to the jury of seven women and five men at Cork Circuit Criminal Court today as the case was adjourned until April 15.

Judge Dunphy told them they should not discuss the case with anyone over the weekend and they should refrain from reading media reports or any social media comments about the case.

He reminded them they should only consider the evidence that they see and hear in court as part of their work as jurors.

You should not engage in amateur detective work, the judge said.

33-year-old Bohdan Bezverkhyi, of Rigsdale House, Rigsdale, Ballinhassig, County Cork, denies the charge of dangerous driving causing the death of Mr Palmer at Dunkereen Cross, Innishannon, Co Cork, on December 29 2022.

One piece of evidence which they heard today came from Detective Garda Paul Holland who said that he photographed a BMW car suspected to have been involved in a collision with the red car driven by the late Mr Palmer.

While I was taking photographs I saw three flakes of red paint on the front bumper of the vehicle, he said.

Assistant state pathologist, Dr Margaret Bolster, concluded that the cause of death was traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries with thoracic injuries from a road traffic collision.

Defence senior counsel Seamus Roche, referred to the deceased not wearing a seatbelt: I dont wish to be unfair to the man but that is a factor of the case.

He was not driving in a safe manner for whatever reason and was in fact on his incorrect side of the road  that is the nub of the defence.

He (Bohdan Bezverkhyi) was trying to negotiate the cross as safely as he could.
Blood of the 29-year-old Carrigaline man who was allegedly punched and kicked on the ground near his home at Christmas 2022 was found on the white sock worn by one of the men accused of murdering him.

Garda Ronan McGuckin reached into an evidence bag as he stood in the witness box at the murder trial today and removed two white Adidas socks which he said were worn by one of the accused men Ricardo Hoey.

Garda McGuckin held the socks up so that they could be seen by Ms Justice Lankford and the jury of six women and six men at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork.

They were then made an exhibit in the murder trial.

Dr Conor Young of Forensic Science Ireland testified that he had been given clothing and footwear belonging to the two accused men to examine forensically.

Dr Young said the background allegations presented to him at the time were that Mr Hoey had allegedly said he pushed Matt ONeill before kicking him, and that Jordan Deasy had allegedly hit him once when standing and once when on the ground.

He was told that it was alleged that the deceased was holding a bottle of wine which smashed when he fell to the ground.

Dr Young said he found a small area of bloodstaining on the leg part of one of Mr Hoeys socks and this was a DNA match for Matt ONeill.

Dr Young said a blood stain from inside Jordan Deasys jacket pocket was a DNA match for Mr Deasys own blood.

Dr Young said a blood stain from inside Jordan Deasys jacket pocket was a DNA match for Mr Deasys own blood. Pic Cork Courts Limited

Ms Justice Lankford said that because of other court matters to which she must attend in Dublin on Monday the trial will continue in Cork on Tuesday April 16.

21-year-old Ricardo Hoey of 7 Ardcarrig, Carrigaline, County Cork, and 19-year-old Jordan Deasy of 41 Ravensdale, Herons Wood, both pleaded not guilty to the single charge against them, namely that on December 28 2022 at Glenwood estate, Carrigaline, County Cork, they did murder 29-year-old Matt ONeill, contrary to common law.

Assistant state pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster carried out an autopsy on January 9 2023 and said that the fatal injuries resulted from blunt force trauma to the head, which can be due to blows to the head and face or to a fall.

The pathologist also said: The blunt force trauma was consistent with a combination of blows and a fall.
By Rebecca Black, PA

The family of a GAA official murdered by loyalist paramilitaries has criticised the British government for taking legal action in relation to an inquest into his death.

Sean Brown (61) was abducted and killed by loyalist paramilitaries as he locked the gates at Bellaghy Wolfe Tones Club in Co Derry in May 1997.

No one has ever been convicted of his murder.

An inquest was under way into his death until last month when a coroner said it could not proceed due to the withholding of sensitive files.

Mr Justice Kinney said his ability to examine Mr Browns death had been compromised by the extent of confidential State material being excluded from the proceedings on national security grounds.

He said he would write to Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris to call on the British government to establish a public inquiry into the loyalist murder.

On Thursday, the British government said it was making a legal challenge.

A spokesperson said: We can confirm that an application for leave to apply for judicial review has been made relating to the inquest into the death of Sean Brown.

It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage given the matter is now the subject of judicial consideration.

Bridie Brown, the wife of Sean Brown, with his daughters Claire Loughran (left) and Siobhan Brown (front right) and his son Sean Brown (rear right) speaking to the media outside the Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast in March (PA)

In a statement issued by their solicitor, the Brown family said they felt the legal action was an attack on the truth and accused the British government of attempting to deny victims access to justice.

We repose a high degree of cynicism as to the timing of the announcement of these judicial review proceedings, coming as they do on the on the actual date that a public inquiry decision was due, the family statement continued.

The Brown family are gravely concerned that this is a concerted attempt to tie them up in legal processes that could take years, and that they are being used as pawns in a wider attempt by the British government to defend its indefensible approach to legacy.

Todays announcement has a retraumatising effect on a family but most specifically an 86-year-old widow, already coming to the terms with the facts that were permitted to emanate from the inquest process.

We confirm that we retain instructions to issue our own proceedings, given the failure by the Secretary of State to make a decision within the proscribed time, in request of the direction of the High Court to convene a public inquiry.
High Court reporters

A hospital has offered sincerest apologies following the tragic death of a 76-year-old woman who collapsed and died after taking a certain type of antibiotic.

Elizabeth Murphy went into anaphylactic shock in her Kilkenny home, in front of her husband and daughter, and died after taking the antibiotic prescribed by her doctor.

The High Court was told on Thursday that University Hospital Waterford had not included in Mrs Murphys hospital discharge papers just months before that she had an anaphylactic reaction to that antibiotic in hospital and had collapsed, requiring adrenaline and other treatment.

The familys counsel, Jeremy Maher SC, instructed by Cian OCarroll solicitors, told the court the death of the mother of five and grandmother to 12 from Pilltown, Co Kilkenny was truly tragic and should never have happened.

He said it was their case that the discharge summary from the hospital to Mrs Murphys GP did not record that she had an anaphylactic shock after taking that antibiotic in hospital and put her collapse down to something else. He said the HSE admitted a breach of duty on this matter.

Counsel said there was pandemonium and panic after Mrs Murphys collapse at home in January 2019 and, despite valiant efforts from family and neighbours, she died.

Counsel said Mrs Murphy, her family, or GP did not know she had previously collapsed after taking the same antibiotic in the Waterford hospital in September 2018.

The Murphy family, including Mrs Murphys husband of 47 years, Sean Murphy, settled an action against the HSE over the death and for nervous shock for a total of 400,000 on Friday.

Apology

In the apology read to the court, University Hospital Waterford offered its sincerest apologies following the tragic death of Mrs Murphy and said it acknowledged that the experience was devastating for the family and continues to have a profound and lasting effect.

It confirmed that recommendations made by the coroner who held an inquest into the pensioners death had been implemented, including an electronic-only reporting initiative implemented and where test results for discharged patients are followed up.

Counsel said it was some comfort for the Murphy family to know lessons had been learned from the tragic death of Mrs Murphy.

In the proceedings against the HSE, it was claimed Mrs Murphy was taken by ambulance to the hospital in September 2018 complaining of pain in her neck and shoulder and breathlessness.

She was admitted to University Hospital Waterford for a cardiological assessment and investigation, and was noted to be allergic to penicillin and that the type of allergy was anaphylaxis.

On September 21st, 2018, following the administration of a certain type of antibiotic, Mrs Murphy suffered an anaphylactic reaction. She collapsed and became unresponsive and adrenalin and other medication had to be administered.

That use of that antibiotic was discontinued, and she was given an alternative. She was discharged from hospital five days later and brought back the next month for review.

It was claimed during the consultation no reference was made to her anaphylactic reaction or collapse.

On January 29th, 2019, she attended her GP complaining of pain in her back radiating into her shoulder and chest, and she was prescribed the same antibiotic she had in hospital.

She took the tablet at home, and it was claimed she suffered a severe anaphylactic reaction. She was taken to hospital where she was pronounced dead on January 30th, 2019.

It was claimed that in the hospital discharge summary for Mrs Murphy there was a failure to record that she had the anaphylactic allergy to that type of antibiotic and a failure to advise her or her GP that she had suffered the anaphylactic reaction to it.

Noting the settlement, Ms Justice Emily Egan offered her condolences to the family on what she said was their appalling loss.
Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions.

Major rivers in Russia and Kazakhstan have risen above their embankments, causing more than 120,000 people to have to flee their homes in the worst flooding in some areas in almost a century.

Residents along the 1,509-mile Ural River, which flows through Russia and Kazakhstan, were forced to evacuate by its fast-rising waters, reported Reuters.

Orenburg, a Russian city of about 550,000, was one of the hardest hit.

It came very quickly at night, 71-year-old Taisiya told Reuters in the city about 900 miles southeast of Moscow. By the time I got ready, I couldnt get out.

Entire areas of Orenburg were submerged as snowmelt caused the Ural to swell to a level much higher than what was deemed safe by authorities.

The flooding might be the biggest disaster in terms of its scale and impact in more than 80 years, said President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, as CNN reported.

In Orenburg, the local government said the flooding caused the evacuation of more than 7,700 people from almost 13,000 residential buildings.

The citys water levels rose to approximately 33 feet, the mayor said, higher than the critical level of 30.5 feet.

Flooding in the region looked to be far from over.

The forecast is unfavorable. The water level continues to rise in flood-affected areas, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday, according to CNN.

Earlier this week, Orsk, a city downstream from Orenburg, was inundated when a dam embankment burst, reported BBC News.

Springtime flooding is common in Russia, but the scale of the event was rare.

The worst of the flooding hit northern Kazakhstan and the Russian Ural Mountains. Waters also rose in the southern portions of Western Siberia, as well as some areas near Europes largest river, the Volga, Reuters reported.

According to Kazakhstans ministry of emergency situations, emergency crews had removed 310 million cubic feet of floodwaters.

Emergency workers said the extreme flooding was caused by a combination of waterlogged soils, extensive snowpack, rapidly warming temperatures and heavy rainfall.

Residents of flooded regions have asked the president for assistance, while social media posts showed protestors outside Orsk city hall yelling, Shame! Shame! reported CNN.

In other footage, demonstrators criticized the Mayor of Orsk, Vasily Kozupitsa.

We feed emergency ministry workers with pies and dumplings and bring them thermoses Kozupitsa cannot even provide for emergency workers. Shame! said one woman, as CNN reported.




Taiwan looks to get eggs from Philippines, Thailand and Turkey

Amid rising prices for eggs, Taiwan will look to diversify its egg sources and seek imports from the Philippines, Thailand and Turkey, the country's Council of Agriculture (COA) said last month.

Australia, the United States and Japan have been the main sources for eggs, but the COA is also looking for imports from other countries, including Brazil, according to COA Minister Chen Chi-chung.

An agreement had been reached with Australia to import eggs on a regular weekly basis. Chen foresaw local production was picking up, as the government's campaign to get bird flu under control was showing results.

For the time being, any shortage that local production is unable to meet would be compensated for by imports, he said.

- Taiwan News
Curtailment is a failure to consume or store close to zero marginal cost decarbonized electricity from solar & wind power. Therefore, it should be minimized on economic and environmental grounds. In Japan in fiscal year 2023, curtailment is forecasted to significantly increase and reach a new record of 1.76 terawatt-hour. Until fiscal year 2021 curtailment was limited to Kyushu. Except for Tokyo, curtailment is now affecting all the power systems of the country. The situation has become particularly problematic in Kyushu where the curtailment rate of solar + wind power was projected to reach nearly 7% in fiscal year 2023. This rate is more than double those in Australia and California, two power systems successfully integrating shares of solar + wind in their electricity consumption twice greater than Kyushu. On a positive note, it is possible to rapidly reduce curtailment in Japan by prioritizing the implementation of two key regulatory solutions: economic dispatch and negative prices.

Curtailment in Japan to be multiplied by more than three in FY 2023 compared to FY 2022

METI predicts that in mainland Japan (excluding Okinawa) in fiscal year (FY) 2023 (from April 2023 to March 2024), solar + wind curtailment will reach a new record of 1.76 terawatt-hour (TWh), a multiplication by more than three compared to the previous record of 0.57 TWh in FY 2022 (Chart 1). The two reasons for increased curtailment in FY 2023 are less nuclear power outages and lower electricity consumption.

Chart 1: Japan Solar + Wind Curtailment FY 2018-FY 2023e

Curtailment is essentially solar curtailment. On the one hand, this is because in Japan much more electricity is generated from solar than from wind (i.e., by a factor of nine or more). On the other hand, this is because electricity generation from solar power is concentrated during the daytime which may result in recurrent temporary surpluses when electricity generation from solar power reaches its peak. It may also be noted that solar curtailment mostly takes place in spring when solar irradiance conditions are good and electricity consumption is the lowest.

6.7% of solar + wind curtailed in Kyushu, more than double than in Australia and California

From FY 2018 to FY 2021, Kyushu was the only power system where curtailment took place (Table 1). In FY 2022, Hokkaido, Tohoku, Chugoku, and Shikoku started to experience curtailment. In FY 2023, Chubu, Hokuriku, and Kansai joined the list of power systems affected by curtailment, leaving Tokyo as the only power system spared from curtailment.

Table 1: Japan Solar + Wind Curtailment by Power System FY 2018-FY 2023e (TWh)

Curtailment is particularly problematic in Kyushu. In this power system, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) forecasts that 6.7% of solar + wind electricity will be curtailed* in FY 2023 (Chart 2). This curtailment rate is well above those projected for the other Japanese power systems.

* curtailment rate = electricity curtailed / (electricity curtailed + electricity generation)  100.

In Japan, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with a capacity of less than 10 kilowatts (kW) are not subject to curtailment. Forecasts of curtailment rates by METI include electricity curtailed and electricity generation from all solar PV systems.

Chart 2: Japan Solar + Wind Curtailment Rate by Power System FY 2023e

There are two main reasons why curtailment is high in Kyushu:

(1) Limited interconnection capacity with other power systems

Considering electricity generation excluding self-consumption in calendar year 2023, in Kyushu, 55% of electricity supply came from low marginal costs nuclear power & renewable energy (RE), this was the highest share in the country, Kansai followed with 49% (Chart 4). As a result, Kyushu is the power system with the lowest electricity prices on Japan Electric Power Exchange (Chart 5).

Chart 4: Japan Electricity Generation Mix by Power System 2023

This cost competitiveness makes Kyushu one of the countrys largest net exporters of electricity despite being a rather isolated power system (i.e., Kyushu is located at the southwestern end of Japan, and it is only connected with Chugoku). Power exports from Kyushu are, however, constrained by limited interconnection capacity with Chugoku (approximately 2.5 gigawatts (GW)). Furthermore, curtailment may occur simultaneously in Kyushu and Chugoku preventing power exports from Kyushu to Chugoku.

(2) High share of nuclear power, deliberate inflexible operation of reactors

The share of nuclear power in the electricity generation mix of Kyushu is one of the highest in the country (more than 30% in 2023).

In Japan, regardless of economic efficiency and technical possibilities, a controversial electricity supply rule unduly favors nuclear to the detriment of solar & wind. Based on this rule, when there is an oversupply of power, solar & wind are curtailed before ramping down the output of nuclear reactors. In France, where nuclear power accounts for 65% of the countrys electricity generation mix, the opposite is regularly done.

In Kyushu, the inflexible operation of the nuclear reactors Genkai-3 & -4 (1,180 MW each) and Sendai-1 & -2 (890 MW each) sometimes results in significant curtailment. For instance, between noon and 1 PM on Sunday April 9, 2023, while a record 5.9 GW of solar + wind power was curtailed, there was no downward adjustment of nuclear power output (Chart 6).

Negative prices unleash flexibility by stimulating investments in battery storage

It is possible to rapidly reduce curtailment in Japan by prioritizing the implementation of two key regulatory solutions: economic dispatch and negative prices.

Negative prices should be allowed to strengthen the price signal guiding electricity market participants behavior. Like economic dispatch, negative prices are common in major developed economies. Negative prices provide additional economic opportunities for consumers to increase their demand when it is the most advantageous. They also stimulate investments in affordable battery storage which is a very complementary technology of solar power. In California CAISO where negative prices are allowed, batteries are sometimes paid to charge surplus electricity generated from solar power during daytime (Chart 7). Batteries are then paid again as the electricity stored is discharged after sunset. This is an effective method to optimize the use of clean and free electricity that would otherwise be curtailed.

Later this year, the Japanese government is expected to release its next Strategic Energy Plan. This Plan should strengthen the countrys efforts towards carbon neutrality by maximizing the use of RE nationwide. At this occasion, the government should consider, and would be well-inspired to decide implementing proven effective measures such as economic dispatch and negative prices.

SourceRENEWABLE ENERGY INSTITUTE
Back in 2019, the FCC banned US carriers, which were then starting to deploy their 5G networks, from using subsidies to buy equipment from companies deemed a national security threat. Chinese manufacturers Huawei and ZTE were at the top of that list. Now, China is implementing a similar measure: According to the Wall Street Journal, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has ordered state-owned mobile operators, including the two biggest carriers in the country, to phase out foreign chips.

The regulator has reportedly told China Mobile and China Telecom, along with all other state-owned carriers, to check their networks for any semiconductors that weren't manufactured locally. It then asked them to determine a timeline to replace them. The Journal's sources said that it's now possible to switch to domestic chips, thanks to improvements in their quality and performance over the past few years. Chinese companies like Huawei were forced to design their own semiconductors after getting hit by trade sanctions, in order to be self-sufficient and in case they're no longer able to import chips from the US and its allies. The Chinese government, in turn, is supporting their efforts and is raising $40 billion in funds to help the domestic semiconductor industry.

This latest move by China follows its ban on the use of Intel and AMD processors in government computers. Prior to that, China also prohibited the use of US-made tech in all government institutions and public bodies and banned local firms from buying chips made by US memory manufacturer Micron Technology. Intel and AMD will most likely suffer heavy losses from this latest development, since they provide most of the chips used for mobile networks around the world. China was also Intel's largest market in 2023 and accounted for 27 percent of its revenue. In addition to losing some of their biggest customers, the companies will now have to face competition from Chinese manufacturers, as well.

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It won't be replacing your smartphone anytime soon.

Humanes hyped up AI Pin is finally here and, unfortunately, it stinks. This week, Cherlynn and Devindra are joined by Michael Fisher (AKA MrMobile) and Wired Reviews Editor Julian Chokkattu to chat about the AI Pin and the many ways it fails. Its often inaccurate, it takes crummy photos, and it gets way too hot. Not so great for something youre supposed to wear all day! Is there any hope for AI-dependent gadgets? Also, Washington Post columnist Christopher Velazco joins to discuss Apples approval of used iPhone components for repairs.

Listen below or subscribe on your podcast app of choice. If you've got suggestions or topics you'd like covered on the show, be sure to email us or drop a note in the comments! And be sure to check out our other podcast, Engadget News!

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Too much heat, too few features: Humanes AI pin doesnt live up to the hype  1:09

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Credits

Hosts: Cherlynn Low and Devindra Hardawar

Guests: Michael Fisher (MrMobile) and Julian Chokkattu

Producer: Ben Ellman

Music: Dale North and Terrence O'Brien

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The trailer looks like what might happen if The Hallmark Channel just stopped trying.

Many major tech companies, particularly those that operate in the TV hardware business, have dipped their toes into original content. Although it's had its own free, ad-supported TV (FAST) channels for a while, TCL is late to that party. Not for much longer though, as the company is set to release its first special, a short romance movie, on TCLtv+ this summer. There's just one slight hitch: TCL is using generative AI to make original content for its platform, and early signs do not bode well.

The company has released the first trailer for Next Stop Paris, which it's calling "the first AI-powered love story." TCL used human writers, as well as actors for motion capture and voice performances. While it has artists in the US, Canada, UK and Poland working on the project, it relied heavily on generative AI.

I am excited by this opportunity to differentiate us with original programming. AIGC [artificial intelligence generated content] for us is the beginning," Chris Regina, TCL's chief content officer, told Broadcasting+Cable . "Its a new approach and it makes sense coming from a tech and hardware company that thats where were going to start.

The plot of Next Stop Paris, such as it is, sees a young woman going on her honeymoon to Paris alone after her fiance ran off with someone in their wedding party. She meets a stranger on the train and the pair explore the French capital together.

TCL is hoping that original content can help draw viewers to TCLtv+ and help build a brand identity for the company. While it's not entirely fair to judge a film based on a trailer, the Next Stop Paris clip gives a terrible first impression for both the project and TCLtv+.

The look of the characters changes throughout, from a moderately realistic style to the hyperrealism we often see from the likes of Midjourney, and they project all of the emotion of a pair of dead fish. Lip syncing is almost non-existent and the characters walk in a very unnatural way.

The trailer feels like the worst kind of fever dream. Saying this looks like garbage would be an insult to garbage. If "content is king," as Regina put it, Next Stop Paris looks like a pauper.

The Hallmark Channel gets a lot of flak for its romance movies and romcoms, but at least there's an earnestness and high level of care behind the network's output, which does a lot to fill a gap in the theatrical slate. TCL is trying to muscle into that space too.

"There's an audience there that's watching our service and we see a hole in the marketplace with theatrical rom-coms not as prevalent," Regina said. "They're a guilty pleasure. You get under a blanket and watch in front of your TV set. So that's the driver." On top of that, TCL plans to make its original content shoppable and have AI-generated "characters in our shows that can be brand ambassadors and influencers for advertisers."

Thankfully, TCL isn't only working on AI-generated guff. "We are looking at doing traditional content. So movies, scripted shows, unscripted content, specials," Regina, who wrote Next Stop Paris with TCL chief creative officer Daniel Smith, said. "The next thing we have brewing isn't AI at all." That's good, because whatever's next can't look much worse than Next Stop Paris.
Tesla is trying to make its EVs more attractive after a tough financial quarter.

The price of a monthly subscription to Tesla's (kind-of) self-driving software has just been cut in half. Tesla's Full Self Driving (Supervised) subscription now costs $99 per month, a reduction from the previous standard of $199.

Tesla instituted the $199 monthly upgrade fee in 2021, back when its self-driving system was still in beta. It costs $12,000 to add Full Self Driving (Supervised)  full name, every time  to a Tesla outright, so at the current rate, it'll take 10 years for the subscription to lose its value. As far as installment plans go, this one seems like a solid deal. To be fair, so was the $199 rate, which gave (self-)drivers five years before hitting $12,000 in fees.

You can now subscribe to FSD (Supervised) for $99/month in the UShttps://t.co/0IwC9GC0aF



Upgrades > Software Upgrades > Subscribe  Tesla (@Tesla) April 12, 2024

Tesla is doing what it can to make its EVs (and its stock) more attractive following a rough financial quarter to kick off 2024. For the first time since 2020, Tesla EV shipments fell year-over-year and they dipped significantly compared with the previous quarter. In the first months of 2024, Tesla deliveries were down eight percent yearly and down 20 percent over the final quarter of 2023. Analysts expected Tesla to ship 449,080 EVs in Q1 2024, but it delivered just 386,810.

The company offered a free trial of Full Self Driving (Supervised), which does not make the vehicle autonomous, to Tesla drivers at the end of 2023, seemingly in an attempt to boost its bottom line before reporting came due. As of March 2024, Tesla salespeople in North America are required to demonstrate Full Self Driving (Supervised) to anyone buying a vehicle. The prices of all Model Y vehicles also rose by $1,000 on April 1.

Tesla hasn't shared shipment numbers for the Cybertruck, which started rolling out late last year. The company is preparing to release a "next-generation low-cost" EV in 2025. Probably.
Korra Obidi described a purported assault, which she asserted involved the hurling of a liquid substance, as a "wake up call."

Obidi was hospitalized following an incident where she claims to have been stabbed while in London.

On Thursday, the former 'So You Think You Can Dance' participant, who auditioned for the FOX program in 2019 during her pregnancy, claimed she was assaulted with a knife, while being targeted with a liquid substance in an Instagram statement.

Accompanying her caption was a video, seemingly recorded shortly after the incident, where she expressed feeling a burning sensation on her face and urgently requested a bystander for some Coca-Cola to alleviate it.

The bystander, observing blood on the Nigerian dancer, promptly provided her with a bottle of soda, which she proceeded to apply to her face. Subsequent footage in the video displayed a yellow knife on the ground, visibly stained with blood.

According to a statement acquired by PEOPLE from the Metropolitan Police in London, the substance was subsequently verified as "a non-noxious cosmetic item."

"Currently in an ambulance to the hospital, there was a knife, acid attack on me in the UK in the middle of a live stream. There's been a lot of hate in the past but this physical assault is a wake up call," she captioned the post.

Obidi, who participated in the live auditions for the dance show in 2019, but did not progress further, also asserted that her purported assailant was described as a "Black female" who was "5 foot."
The eligibility criteria for Defra's new recovery grant for flooded farmers has been updated to remove the '150 metre limit' following a backlash from the industry.

In a new update, the government said farmers will now be able to receive payments for all land parcels which are flooded contiguous to an eligible river.

The Farming Recovery Fund was opened earlier this week to support farmers who have suffered uninsurable damage to their land due to flooding this winter.

Under the scheme, producers can access grants of between 500 and 25,000 to return their land to the condition it was in before flooding due to Storm Henk.

However, shortly after the scheme's launch, the NFU warned there were 'major issues' with its eligibility, particularly for farmers who had flooded land more than 150 metres from 'main' rivers.

Under the scheme, eligible agricultural land parcels must be located within 150m of the midpoint of a named river within specific counties.

The union said some farmers who were told they were not eligible by the Rural Payment Agency (RPA) included those who had 90% of their land saturated or underwater, as well as damage to buildings and equipment, following winter flooding.

In an update issued today, Defra said: "Following feedback from farmers, the eligibility criteria for the scheme has been updated to fully remove the 150m limit.

"This means that farmers will be able to receive payments for all land parcels which are flooded contiguous to an eligible river."

Relentless heavy rain since October 2023 has left vast swathes of agricultural land saturated and in many cases still under water, with many arable farmers unable to plant crops and losing those that were in the ground.

The rain, combined with unseasonal low spring temperatures, is also having a major effect on livestock farmers, with a bleak attrition rate for lambs born this spring already clear.
Traditional farming practices could be 'threatened' as large landowners seek to reclaim land in favour of economically beneficial environmental practices.

The National Sheep Association (NSA) has warned that farmers were being 'squeezed out' of short term lets and Farm Business Tenancies (FBT).

Making the claim a recent meeting of sheep farmers in the NSA Northern Region, the body said many landowners were taking back land and putting it into rewilding and other similar projects.

In some cases, sheep producers at the meeting claimed that this trend appeared to be linked to tax benefits of being active in farming and land management.

NSA chief executive Phil Stocker, who was in attendance at the meeting, said he was hearing of a number of cases involving the loss of significant areas of land on five year FBTs.

This left farmers with unviable holdings either owned or on a full agricultural tenancy, Mr Stocker warned.

"It is clear this is a common problem in parts of the north of England," he explained, "Where a high percentage of farm land is tenanted and owned by large private estates, corporate organisations such as water companies, and NGOs.

The practice of estates reclaiming land on short term lets is often driven by landowners and agents seeking to reduce tax liability.

Many also seek to increase income through government and private schemes including carbon offsetting, biodiversity net gain, and tree planting.

But significant changes are also being driven by Natural England related to stocking reductions and Countryside and Higher Level Stewardship renewals.

In some areas, the NSA said it was seeing a 'breakdown' in traditional sheep farming and grazing practices, with holdings becoming unviable, and tenants often not having the opportunity to benefit from the schemes that land is being entered into.

Mr Stocker explained; "This is not new, its a trend that has been going on for some time, but there is plenty of evidence to suggest it is increasing rapidly at a time when food production has been recognised as fragile.

Farmers currently affected by this issue have been encouraged by the NSA to contact them and to provide a more accurate view of what is happening.
NFU Cymru has raised a series of asks to the Welsh government to assist farmers hamstrung by the ongoing poor weather and ground conditions.

Many areas of Wales have received around 200% of the rainfall they would expect against long-term weather averages.

Records also show that Wales has experienced the second wettest eight-month period in 100 years.

NFU Cymru said this had caused significant disruption to farming businesses, with crops unable to be sown as well as difficulties with lambing and calving.

The union said this had all added a huge cost burden on farmers, with some having to buy in additional feed and straw while their stock is housed for extended  and in many cases unforeseen  periods.

The persistent wet weather again highlighted the need for Welsh government to recognise the importance of a future policy that "provides stability to farm businesses to safeguard domestic food production at times of volatility".

The union has put several key asks forward to Welsh government to seek help in supporting farmers through the current crisis.

In the short-term, it said Welsh government must show flexibility in the delivery of various scheme requirements, including cross compliance for BPS and other rural investment schemes.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) must also work with farmers and adopt a 'sensible approach' to regulation that demonstrated flexibility and understanding of the on-the-ground conditions.

And in order to build longer-term resilience, NFU Cymru said there was a need for government to bring forward the 20m committed to support farmer compliance with the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations 'without delay'.

Responding to the asks, NFU Cymru president Aled Jones said farmers in all sectors were finding the incessant wet weather extremely challenging.

He said: "Livestock businesses are seeing increased expenditure on forage due to having to keep stock housed far longer than they normally would and the conditions are less than ideal for those businesses who have been lambing.

"With autumn planting impossible on many farms, arable businesses are increasingly concerned that they will not be able get any spring crops planted due to no improvement in the weather and ground conditions."

Mr Jones added: This is an awful lot for farmers to contend with and we are very concerned about the mental toll this is taking on our farmers.

We ask Welsh government, working with its regulator NRW, to do all it can to assist Welsh farmers at an extremely difficult time."

Farmers in need of support can make use of the services offered by Wales' farming charities.
NASA has been asked to help out in a fresh search for the Loch Ness monster.

NASA could assist in the hunt for the Loch Ness Monster

The Loch Ness Centre is desperate for the US space agency to lend its expertise in the latest attempt to find the legendary Scottish beast.

The new search for Nessie will take place from May 30 to June 2 and marks the 90th anniversary of Sir Edward Mountain's expedition - the first organised surface watch of Loch Ness.

Aimee Todd, from the Loch Ness Centre, said: "We are hoping that Nessie hunters around the world will help us reach the people at NASA.

"We are hoping to reach them through the power of social media. We are just hoping for their expert guidance to help with our ongoing quest to get answers.

"We have gone to UK universities. We are hoping that experts from NASA might have some advanced imaging technology to scan the loch.

"We would have to sit down and talk to them about how to get it here."
Angelina Jolie's daughter Vivienne was a "really tough assistant" when they worked together on Broadway musical 'The Outsiders'.

Angelina Jolie was given a tough time by her daughter when they were working on a new Broadway musical together

The Hollywood actress acted as lead producer on the show and 15-year-old Vivienne indulged her love of theatre by joining the project as a volunteer and Angelina has admitted the teen was her toughest critic.

When asked who is the "biggest theatre head" in the family, Angelina told PEOPLE: "Viv. Definitely Viv ... Hands down. Shell correct me. Shell say, Didnt you read the memo? We have to do this, we have to go through this'.

"Shes been a really tough assistant. She takes it very, very seriously."

Angelina previously admitted Vivienne - whose dad is actor Brad Pitt - reminds her of her own mother Marcheline Bertrand. When announcing Vivienne's role on 'The Outsiders', Angelina said in a statement: "Viv reminds me of my mother in that she isnt focused on being the centre of attention but in being a support to other creatives.

"Shes very thoughtful and serious about theatre and working hard to best understand how to contribute."

She went on to reveal Vivienne is the reason she got onboard with the show in the first place.

Angelina added: " I studied at the Lee Strasberg Institute where I realised my first love, as a performer, was the theatre.

"I had not found a way back until now. I hope to be able to contribute while continuing to learn from this amazing team, who I have been working with since my daughter brought me to see the show at La Jolla Playhouse ... I cant begin to express how excited I am for this musical to make its Broadway debut and look forward to sharing this new adaptation of The Outsiders with the world."

Vivienne joined her mother at the musical's red carpet premiere in New York on Thursday (11.04.24). It is based on S. E. Hinton's 1967 novel and was previously adapted as a 1983 movie starring Tom Cruise and Patrick Swayze and directed by Francis Ford Coppola.
Harry Kanes three children are said to have been injured in a multiple vehicle car accident.

Harry Kanes three children are said to have been injured in a multiple vehicle car accident

Three of the 30-year-old Bayern Munich strikers children  Louis three, Vivienne, five, and seven-year-old Ivy  were travelling in a Mercedes at around 5.15pm on Monday in Bavaria, Germany, and were rushed to hospital, according to The Sun.

The newspaper reported Harry travelled back to Britain with his Bayern club ahead of their Champions League away match at Arsenal on Tuesday (09.04.24) night.

Bild reported a Renault driver aged 20, smashed into the black Mercedes Vito in which Harrys children are said to have been travelling while trying to turn onto a motorway slip road.

Reports have also stated Harrys wife Katie and their youngest child Henry  who is seven months old  were not in the car.

The Mercedes was apparently driven by a 24-year-old woman and it is understood there were three passengers in the Renault, with a Land Rover also said to have been caught up in the collision.

Reports said all eight people involved in the smash suffered minor injuries and were transported to hospital via ambulance and helicopters.

After his game on Tuesday, England captain Harry told TNT Sports: Having no fans here tonight was tough. Having a full stadium (next week) will push us on.

We had a big chance to go 3-1 up but Leroy didnt put it away unfortunately.

Its been an amazing experience in Germany personally. To see a different culture and a different league.

The league is gone this season but I am there for a long time.
Imelda Staunton still wears the clothes she wore to play Queen Elizabeth II.

Imelda Staunton still wears the clothes she wore to play Queen Elizabeth II

The Crown actress, 68, portrayed the monarch  who died aged 96 in September 2022  in the final two seasons of Netflixs hit royal drama, earning her best actress nominations from the British Academy Television and Golden Globe awards.

She has now admitted about how she keeps wearing Elizabeths clothes from the show after getting immersed in her persona, with The Sun quoting her as saying: It was quite a serious job and quite a serious responsibility carrying all that stuff.

I finished doing that last May and June and shaking that off  so now I can be up and funny  its just taken me that time.

I was doing it day in, day out. I knew in 2019 I was doing it, and I started in 2021, so it was a long time. Four years of her in my head.

The work that went in, you can see it on the screen, every detail from the set to the costumes. Im wearing one of her shirts now.

Imelda made the admission at a charity event this week in Brighton while wearing one of the blouses she used to play Elizabeth.

Despite being critically acclaimed for her role as the late monarch, other royal commentators have hit out at her portrayal.

Historian Hugo Vickers, 71, told Page Six the late Queen Elizabeth, who died in 2022 aged 96, was briefed on the series by courtiers, while her husband Prince Philip was said to have been left terribly upset by an episode that suggested he was partly to blame for the death of his sister Cecile in a plane crash.

He added it appeared the show was unfairly portraying the late queen, hitting out about Imeldas performance: You cannot escape that they are picking away at the souls of real people. Its vile.

This queen looks so boring (and) nothing like her at all. The queen always managed to keep her twinkle in her eye and keep her sense of humour even in the most difficult of times  she was not slumped like this woman on TV.

Imelda Staunton just looks like a bored housewife, a real crosspatch, and so unlike the real queen.
Shanghai releases 2024 events guide

(People's Daily App) 13:18, April 12, 2024

The "Shanghai Let's Meet Event Guide 2024" was released on April 9. It invites people worldwide to participate in Shanghai's top cultural, sports, tourism, and exhibition events. This guide showcases 70 events that highlight the city's vibrant offerings. Let's take a look!

(Video Source: International Channel Shanghai)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Ruby Waxs shock moment when OJ Simpson pretended to stab her in the style of Alfred Hitchcocks Psycho has resurfaced online.

Ruby Waxs shock moment where OJ Simpson pretended to stab her in the style of Alfred Hitchcocks Psycho is shocking web users

The clip was shot for a 1998 BBC documentary that saw the comic, 70, interview the acquitted double-murder suspect and has reemerged since Simpsons death aged 76 on Wednesday (10.04.24).

Ruby is seen on the show concluding it by talking directly to the camera, saying: After we finished filming, Simpson said to me that he has a surprise for me  and I genuinely was surprised.

I think it was his idea of a joke.

The show then cuts to Simpson knocking Rubys hotel door, which she opens to find him wielding a banana like a knife above his head and bringing it down repeatedly in a stabbing motion while making screeching noises to imitate the strings that soundtracked the shower stabbing scene in Hitchcocks 1960 horror Psycho.

The show ends with a close-up of Simpson looking wide-eyed and crazed.

It has spread online since his family announced on Thursday (11.04.24) he had died, 30 years after he went on trial for the slaughter of his ex-wife Nicole Brown, 35, and her 25-year-old friend Ron Goldman at her LA home.

Despite being acquitted after an 11-month trial in which it was argued police mishandled DNA evidence, Simpson was found liable for the deaths in a civil case.

Ruby met with Simpson after he was acquitted in his criminal case and she said he phoned her on April 1 and said: I killed her, April Fools!

She added he told her his favourite poem was about Lizzie Borden  an American woman tried and acquitted of the axe murders of her dad and stepmother in 1892.

Ruby has also said she thought Simpson wanted her to bust him for Nicole and Rons murders, adding: I thought I could bust him. (I thought) hed say on air, Yes he did it, and Id get him in jail. So I was being public defender.
OJ Simpsons Dream Team defence attorney Alan Dershowitz says the acquitted double-murder suspect will always have a mixed legacy.

OJ Simpsons Dream Team defence attorney Alan Dershowitz says the acquitted double-murder suspect will always have a mixed legacy

Alan, 85, was one of nine attorneys  along with Robert Blasier, Carl Douglas, Johnnie Cochran, Robert Shapiro, F Lee Bailey, Barry Scheck, Robert Kardashian, Peter Neufeld, Gerald F Uelmen and Shawn Holley  when Simpson, who died aged 76 from cancer on Wednesday (10.04.24) was put on trial for the killing of his ex-wife Nicole Brown, 35, and her friend Ron Goldman, 25, in 1994.

Alan told People: He will always have a mixed legacy. But, hell always be remembered as the defendant in the very important trial of 1995.

He was very smart. He didnt always listen to his lawyers advice. (I) told (Simpson) once he got acquitted to assume a low profile. (He) did not.

He did some foolish things writing a book (If I Did It: Confessions of the Killer) or he went on a lot of television shows.

(He) did not do himself very much good.

Alan stressed Simpsons Trial of the Century which went on for 11 months from 1994 to 1995 had a big impact on the American justice system, on media coverage of trials, on corruption.

He added: He had a big impact on racial divisions  he left a mark.

Simpson was arrested in 1994 in connection with the death of Ron and Nicole, who was stabbed so fiercely medical examiners said her head was almost decapitated.

The victims were stabbed to death outside Nicoles Los Angeles home on June 12, 1994, and despite his acquittal in his criminal trial, Simpson was later found liable for the murders in a civil case, and ordered to pay $33.5million in compensation.

Its been reported Simpson paid $50,000 a day for his huge defence team in the criminal trial, funded by memorabilia he signed while behind bars.
In a significant move to strengthen economic ties between the US and Sub-Saharan Africa, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has provided its support to the proposed AGOA Renewal and Improvement Act of 2024. Introduced by Senator Chris Coons and Senator James Risch, the act aims to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by 16 years, from its current expiration date in September 2025 to 2041.

AGOA stands as a key element of the US economic engagement with Sub-Saharan Africa, offering duty-free access to the US market for eligible African countries. This trade preference programme has been instrumental in reducing the costs of trade, attracting investment to the region, and fostering a mutually beneficial economic relationship between the US and Africa. By providing opportunities for US businesses, workers, and consumers, AGOA has played a critical role in promoting sustainable economic development across the continent, AAFA said in a press release.

The AAFA has supported extending AGOA by 16 years to 2041, aiming to bolster US-Sub-Saharan Africa economic ties. AGOA offers duty-free US market access, encouraging trade and investment. The extension seeks to provide business stability and foster growth, aligning with the USMCA and paving the way for future trade deals like AfCFTA and STIP.

The proposed extension is seen as a vital step in providing businesses with the certainty and stability they need to commit to long-term investments in Sub-Saharan Africa. Such investments are expected to further spur economic growth and development within the region. The 16-year extension period mirrors that of the US-Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA), underscoring the commitment to a stable and enduring trade relationship.

Furthermore, AGOA is recognised as a foundational bridge to future trade agreements, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the US-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP). By solidifying the framework for economic cooperation, the extension of AGOA is poised to unlock new avenues for trade and investment, reinforcing the strategic importance of Africa in global commerce.

"As companies work to diversify out of China today more than ever, immediate and long-term renewal of AGOA for a 16-year period would be incredibly impactful and timely," says AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar. "AGOA renewal would bring quality work opportunities for African workers, many of whom are women, as companies commit to retain or grow orders from African factories as vital partners in their sourcing matrices."

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has further reduced the global cotton ending stocks to 83.08 million bales of 480 pounds for the current season 2023-24 in its April 2024 World Supply and Demand Estimate (WASDE) from the 83.34 million bales of the March estimates. The ending stock at the end of July this year will be slightly higher year-on-year. Last year, the ending stock was estimated at 83.34 million bales. Lower stocks across West Africa, Australia, and Brazil more than offset higher supplies in China.

According to the report released yesterday, total demand was increased to 156.39 million bales from 155.80 million bales of the March 2024 estimate. It was estimated at 147.54 million in the last season. World cotton production was also cut from 112.96 million bales to 112.92 million bales, against last seasons production of 116.15 million bales. Total imports will be 43.94 million bales, up from 43.23 million bales of the March estimate and 37.68 million bales of imports in the last season.

USDA has lowered global cotton ending stocks to 83.08 mn bales for 2023-24, noting a slight YoY increase. Despite lower stocks in West Africa, Australia and Brazil, China's higher supplies balance the scales. Global demand has risen to 156.39 mn bales, with production cuts and increased imports. US cotton supply and demand figures are largely stable.

The total supply of cotton will be 239.47 million bales, against the last estimate of 239.16 million bales. Last year, the total supply was estimated at 230.15 million bales. Similarly, domestic consumption was decreased from 112.94 million bales to 112.82 million bales, compared to last seasons use of 111.22 million bales. World cotton exports were estimated at 43.97 million bales, which was 0.71 million bales higher than the estimate of 43.26 million bales in March 2024. The exports were noted at 37.04 million bales in the last season. A 1.3 million-bale increase in Chinas imports is only partially offset by reductions for Pakistan and Indonesia. Exports from Brazil, Australia, and Turkiye are all projected to be higher.

The US 2023-24 cotton supply and demand projections are almost unchanged this month, with ending stocks forecast at 2.5 million bales. The marketing year price received by upland cotton producers is projected to average 76 cents per pound, a decrease of 1 cent from last month.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
Chinese fabric exports to Cambodia decreased in terms of value and unit price, but they managed to increase in quantity in 2023. This reflected sluggish demand and pressure on exporters to reduce prices to secure orders. In 2023, China exported 1,559.647 million metres of fabric to the nation at an average price of $1.99 per unit. Additionally, it also shipped 18.389 million kg of fabric at an average price of $10.53 per unit. It is to be noted that some varieties of fabric are traded by the metre, while others are sold by weight.

According to Fibre2Fashion's market insight tool TexPro, the total value of 1,559.648 million metres of exported fabric was $3,107.169 million. The 18.389 million kg of fabric, which was also exported from China to Cambodia, was valued at $193.719 million in the same period.

In 2023, China's fabric exports to Cambodia fell in value and unit price but rose in quantity, reflecting weak demand and price-cutting pressures. China exported 1,559.647 million metres and 18.389 million kg of fabric, at lower prices compared to 2022. The increased volume indicates a strategy to maintain market presence by cutting prices to secure orders.

The country had exported 1,493.435 million metres of fabric at the rate of $2.19 per unit in 2022, valued at $3,274.009 million. Additionally, 18.056 million kg of fabric was exported at the rate of $12.13 per unit, which was valued at $219.064 million in the same year.

This shows that the value of the fabric reduced last year in comparison to 2022. The unit price of both varieties of fabric also decreased last year. However, the total volume of exported fabric increased during the period. This indicates that exporters had to offer significant discounts to their buyers to secure orders last year. Ultimately, China managed to export more fabric in terms of volume in the previous year.

In 2021, China exported 1,529.767 million metres of fabric with an average price of $2.02 per unit and a total value of $3,084.623 million. It also exported 16.446 million kg of fabric at an average price of $11.02 per unit, with a total value of $181.299 million, as per TexPro.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
The first instalment of the Murder movie series, directed by Anurag Basu and produced by Mukesh Bhatt, starred Mallika Sherawat and Emraan Hashmi in titular roles and was released in 2004. The co-stars, who had a fallout during the shoot of the erotic thriller, were spotted together at an event and reunited after 20 years. They met at the wedding reception of film producer Anand Pandits daughter in Mumbai.











During an episode of Koffee with Karan, Emraan Hashmi and Mallika Sherawat's fallout was evident when he called Mallika a bad kisser. When Karan asked him what one might find in Mallika's bedroom, he replied, "An idiot's guide to succeeding in Hollywood."





View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare)







The actors were seen interacting, smiling, and even hugging each other at the reception. Emraan was seen in a black suit, while Mallika wore a pink gown. The video of their reunion after their fallout 20 years ago has gone viral, with fans expressing their amusement. Murder has completed 20 years, and fans have applauded the duo's chemistry in the film.

Emraan Hashmi is gearing up for his next film titled OG, a Telugu-language action film, while Mallika Sherawat is now based in Los Angeles.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 11, 2024) - Aftermath Silver Ltd. (TSXV: AAG) (OTCQX: AAGFF) (FSE: FLM1) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the second and final tranche (the "Second Tranche") of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), whereby the Company has completed the issuance of 5,367,573 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.22 per Unit for gross proceeds of $1,180,866.14. The Company has raised aggregate gross proceeds of $3,850,000 through the sale of 17,500,000 Units in the Private Placement.

Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one non-transferable Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable by the holder to acquire one additional Common Share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance at a price of C$0.32 per Common Share.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Private Placement to complete geological, metallurgical and engineering studies at the Company's Berenguela Silver-Copper-Manganese project in southern Peru ("Berenguela") and for general working capital purposes.

A director of the Company (the "Interested Party") purchased or acquired direction or control over a total of 1,656,318 Units as part of the Second Tranche of the Private Placement. The placement to such Interested Party constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the directors of the Company have determined that the Interested Party's participation in the Second Tranche of the Private Placement will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 in reliance on the exemptions set forth in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(b) of MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report 21 days prior to the closing of the Second Tranche of the Private Placement as the details of the participation of the Interested Party had not been confirmed at that time.

In connection with the Second Tranche, the Company issued 70,496 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") and paid commissions of $15,509.16 to certain finders. Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to purchase an additional Common Share at a price of $0.32 for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance.

All securities issued pursuant to the Second Tranche, including the Finder's Warrants, are subject to a hold period expiring on August 12, 2024, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada.

None of the securities sold in connection with the Second Tranche have been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and no such securities may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Agreement for Investor Relations Services

The Company announces that it has entered into an investor relations agreement (the "IR Agreement") with Departure Capital Inc. (the "Consultant"), a Vancouver-based marketing company beneficially owned by Aaron Missere, pursuant to which the Consultant has agreed, to be effective as of April 15, 2024, to provide a social media program for the Company for a term of 3 months.

The Consultant has been engaged to heighten market awareness for the Company through social media channels. In conducting the social media program, the Consultant will create social media posts and engage in interviews with Company management.

The Company will pay the Consultant a cash fee of $10,000 which the Company intends to pay out of its general working capital account.

The Company and the Consultant act at arm's length. The Consultant currently holds (i) 23,000 Common Shares and (iii) 11,500 Warrants with an exercise price of $0.32 expiring on April 2, 2026. The Consultant has no other interest in the Company or its securities, or any right to or intent to acquire such an interest at this time.

Berenguela Project: Background

The Company has an option to acquire a 100% interest in Berenguela through a binding agreement with SSR Mining.

Berenguela hosts a potentially open-pittable silver-copper-manganese Mineral Resource close to Santa Lucia in Puno province, southern Peru.

Silver, copper and manganese have crucial industrial applications in the clean energy and battery spaces. Copper and manganese have been designated critical metals by the US government and the European Union.

The project is less than 6km from road, rail and power lines and 4 hours from Arequipa by sealed road.

Aftermath published a Mineral Resource estimate in March 2023 based on over 300 core and RC holes, which is linked here.

Recent bench-scale metallurgical test work successfully produced commercial battery-grade 99.98% pure manganese sulphate crystals (see news release dated February 29, 2024 linked here.)

Qualified person

Michael Parker, a fellow of the AusIMM and a non-independent director of Aftermath, is a non-independent qualified person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Parker has reviewed the technical content of this news release and consents to the information provided in the form and context in which it appears.

About Aftermath Silver Ltd.

Aftermath Silver Ltd. is a leading Canadian junior exploration company focused on silver, and aims to deliver shareholder value through the discovery, acquisition and development of quality silver projects in stable jurisdictions. Aftermath has developed a pipeline of projects at various stages of advancement. The Company's projects have been selected based on growth and development potential.

Challacollo Silver-Gold project. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Challacollo silver-gold project. A NI 43-101 Mineral Resource was released on December 15, 2020 (available on SEDAR+ and the Company's web page). The Company is currently completing environmental permitting in anticipation of an upcoming drill program.

The Company owns a 100% interest in the Challacollo silver-gold project. A NI 43-101 Mineral Resource was released on December 15, 2020 (available on SEDAR+ and the Company's web page). The Company is currently completing environmental permitting in anticipation of an upcoming drill program. Cachinal Silver-Gold project. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Cachinal Ag-Au project, located 2.5 hours south of Antofagasta. On September 16, 2020, the Company released a CIM compliant Mineral Resource and accompanying NI 43-101 Technical Report (available on SEDAR+ and on the Company's web page).

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

"Ralph Rushton"

Ralph Rushton

CEO and Director

604-484-7855

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 "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including the completion and anticipated results of planned exploration activities, the anticipated use of proceeds from the Private Placement and receipt of regulatory approvals with respect to the Private Placement. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", 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", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connation thereof.

Such forward-looking information and statements are based on numerous assumptions, including among others, that the Company will use the proceeds of the Private Placement as anticipated, and that the Company will receive regulatory approval with respect to the Private Placement. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate.

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 the risk that the Company will not use the proceeds of the Private Placement as anticipated, that the Company will not receive regulatory approval with respect to the Private Placement, risks relating to the actual results of current exploration activities, availability of capital and financing, general economic, market or business conditions, and regulatory changes.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by 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 forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

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.

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION ONLY IN CANADA AND IS NOT INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES, OR FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION, OR DISTRIBUTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR IN THE UNITED STATES OR IN THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205200

SOURCE: Aftermath Silver Ltd.
Rio Tinto increased its spend with suppliers and local businesses in Australia to more than A$16.1 billion in 2023, as part of the company's ongoing commitment to support communities where it operates.

This was an increase of 5 per cent on the previous year and was spent with more than 5,800 businesses, including Australian owned and operated businesses and locally owned and managed branches of global companies. The spend helped support tens of thousands of Australian jobs and delivered a significant economic contribution to communities across the country.

As part of this spend, more than A$727 million was spent with 168 Indigenous businesses across Australia an increase of 29 per cent on the year before.

There was also a 25.5 per cent increase in spending with local businesses across Australia to A$1.2 billion dollars.

Rio Tinto Chief Executive, Australia, Kellie Parker said, "For Rio Tinto to have a long-term future, we need the communities where we operate to be successful and prosperous.

"We strive to employ locally and buy locally in Australia especially from Indigenous, small and regional businesses. It's about providing opportunities to help these businesses grow and, in doing so, creating new jobs and training opportunities for many Australians, helping to support the nation's economy.

"We're proud to have increased our spend with Australian Indigenous businesses by 29 per cent to A$727 million in 2023 and with local businesses around Australia by 25% to A$1.2 billion."

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240411454022/en/

Contacts:

Please direct all enquiries to media.enquiries@riotinto.com

Media Relations,

Australia



Matt Chambers

M +61 433 525 739



Jesse Riseborough

M +61 436 653 412



Alyesha Anderson

M +61 434 868 118



Michelle Lee

M +61 458 609 322



Rio Tinto plc

6 St James's Square

London SW1Y 4AD

United Kingdom

T +44 20 7781 2000

Registered in England

No. 719885

Rio Tinto Limited

Level 43, 120 Collins Street

Melbourne 3000

Australia

T +61 3 9283 3333

Registered in Australia

ABN 96 004 458 404

Category: General
Record quarterly order volume of $3.7 million and gross margin of 59% 1

Record annual order volume of $10.4 million (79% increase YoY) and gross margin of 61% 1

First significant adjusted quarterly EBITDA profitability1

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 11, 2024) - American Aires Inc. (CSE: WIFI) (OTC Pink: AAIRF) ("Aires" or the "Company"), a pioneer in cutting-edge technology designed to protect against electromagnetic radiation and optimize human health, is pleased to announce the filing the Company's Financial Statements and Management's Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) for the year ended December 31, 2023 and disclose key performance metrics (non-IFRS and unaudited financial results). To keep financial results comparable on a YoY basis while making them consistent with ongoing and future reporting, all figures below combine the results of Aires and those achieved by HUCK Project LLC ("HUCK") pursuant to the Distributor-Royalty agreement initially announced on August 28, 2023 and which has been subsequently terminated by mutual agreement of the parties, as announced on February 16, 2024.

The Aires team is proud of its Q4 2023 performance, achieving record order volume of $3.7 million,1 largely due to enhancements made to Aires' marketing and advertising strategy. The increased order volume represents strong growth YoY (up $1.3 million for 53% growth), while advertising and promotion expenses grew by only a modest $0.3 million YoY as we continue to scale up our growth engine, and marketing costs were slightly reduced by 2% YoY.

The record level of quarterly order volume was achieved despite a temporary shortage of product that limited sales. The related supply chain constraint has now been resolved, and the Company has been fully stocked since that time thanks to the negotiation of new supply terms and increased working capital from our recently closed $4 million financing, as announced on February 16, 2024.

The Company's most important quarterly achievement was reporting its first significant adjusted quarterly EBITDA profitability at $77,750, which is a milestone that underscores the Company's ongoing strategic delivery of shareholder value. EBITDA adjustments are for inclusion of HUCK results and non-recurring expenses associated with restructuring and other one-time costs. Please see "Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation Table for Q4/2023" below for more details.

The Aires team is equally proud of its annual performance in 2023 on multiple fronts. The Company drove an impressive order volume increase of 79% YoY to $10.4 million (up from $5.8 million in 2022). The strong order volume financial results are a direct result of the brand-building vision of American Aires CEO, Josh Bruni, and his ability to consistently drive growth, such as 2022's order volume increase of 128% YoY. As with previous years, the main catalyst for revenue growth was Bruni's measured, data-driven and iterative growth engine.

American Aires CEO, Josh Bruni, commented: "This success builds on the hard work and sustainable growth we've demonstrated over the past 2 years. These financial results are just the latest proof that we have what it takes to reach and convert the massive and growing consumer market focused on wellbeing and EMF protection. Now it's time to focus on making 2024 our best year ever and continuing our trajectory of significant revenue growth. That means staying the course but with the welcomed advantage of working with a larger budget. That will involve ramping up our predictable growth engine to drive further revenue increases and deepening and widening our relationships with athletes, celebrities and performers to elevate Aires to the level of household brand."

Gross margin as a percentage in 2023 was mostly in line at 61% relative to from 2022's level (62%), exemplifying continued focus on optimization of manufacturing and fulfillment costs. Gross margin in dollars increased by 76% YoY to $6.4 million (up from $3.6 million in 2022) on the back of stronger order volumes.

The financial results for 2023 demonstrate the effectiveness and ROI of the Company's revamped advertising and promotions approach, which includes expanded spending on social media platforms and further spending on developing affiliate relationships to promote Aires' products. During the year, advertising and promotion spend increased by only $1.3 million YoY compared to an annual YoY increase in order volume that was 3.4x greater ($4.6 million).

Marketing expenses remained relatively stable with a modest 8% YoY increase to $2.1 million. The expenses are based on contracts with a number of marketing agencies that provide services based on a fee as opposed to commissions. As a result, marketing expenses are not expected to increase in the same proportion to sales.

Overhead costs for the year remained flat at $1.9 million. Largely non-recurring legal and professional fees increased mainly related to an increased use of legal firms during the year for capital raising events and restructuring activities. In contrast, the Company diligently drove down office and general costs by 5% and consulting and payroll expenses by 7%, demonstrating our commitment to efficiency and to creating value for Aires shareholders.

American Aires Chief Financial Officer, Vitaliy Savitsky, commented: "American Aires is a young high-growth company, so a lot of my focus has been on disciplining growth, measuring effectiveness of ad spend, and reducing costs. That strategy paid off tremendously in 2023 with its difficult year in the capital markets. Instead of losing ground, we focused on hitting adjusted EBITDA profitability and on growing sustainably. I'm very excited about scaling up the business in existing markets and expanding internationally in 2024 and beyond with this disciplined approach. That's our strategy and vision for further strengthening our industry leader status and delivering more shareholder value."

Detailed breakdown of preliminary, non-IFRS, unaudited figures

Due to the HUCK agreement being in effect since August 28, 2023 and for the entire Q4 2023, the Company realized the economic benefit from the sale of its products in the form of royalty and credit reimbursement rather than the typical formula of revenues less cost of goods sold ("COGS"), less advertising and promotion, less marketing and other expenses. As a result, accounting rules required revenues, COGS, advertising and promotion, marketing and certain other expenses to be allocated to HUCK during this period. The Company reported cash royalty income and credit reimbursement income for 2024 in the amounts of $283,427 and $197,183, respectively, or $480,610 combined. Management believes that the overall net income effect of the HUCK agreement on the Company's bottom line was negligible in 2024 as HUCK realized neither profit nor loss from the distribution partnership. However, to keep investors well informed and be able to compare results with prior years and future quarters, since the HUCK agreement was terminated as of January 1, 2024, the Company is pleased to provide certain relevant metrics on a combined basis, removing the effect of the HUCK agreement to demonstrate the true state of operations. More details are available in the table below.

HUCK-Aires Reconciliation Table



2023



2023



2023



2022

Revenue

Aires



HUCK



Combined



Comparison

Sales $ 5,499,689

$ 4,912,433

$ 10,412,122

$ 5,822,140

Cost of sales $ (2,081,563 ) $ (1,969,637 ) $ (4,051,200 ) $ (2,211,890 ) Gross margin $ 3,418,126

$ 2,942,796

$ 6,360,921

$ 3,610,250

Gross margin %

62%



60%



61%



62%

















Core expenses















Advertising and promotion $ (2,210,866 ) $ (1,571,541 ) $ (3,782,406 ) $ (2,443,604 ) Marketing $ (1,307,692 ) $ (824,846 ) $ (2,132,538 ) $ (1,970,265 ) Core Net Income (Loss) $ (100,432 ) $ 546,409

$ 445,977

$ (803,619 )















Overhead costs















Office and general $ (293,557 ) $ (53,867 ) $ (347,424 ) $ (363,818 ) Consulting and payroll $ (1,149,231 ) $ (11,875 ) $ (1,161,105 ) $ (1,249,912 ) Legal and professional $ (392,190 ) $ (58 ) $ (392,248 ) $ (283,864 ) Adjusted EBITDA $ (1,935,410 ) $ 480,610

$ (1,454,800 ) $ (2,701,213 )















Other















Cash royalty income/(expense) $ 283,427

$ (283,427 ) $ -

$ -

Credit reimbursement income/(expense) $ 197,183

$ (197,183 ) $ -

$ -

Stock-based compensation $ (554,744 ) $ -

$ (554,744 ) $ (139,667 ) Interest charges $ (616,809 ) $ -

$ (616,809 ) $ (502,089 ) Equity-based finance charge $ (953,444 ) $ -

$ (953,444 ) $ (353,000 ) Consulting fees settled in shares $ (782,057 ) $ -

$ (782,057 ) $ -

Depreciation $ (137,958 ) $ -

$ (137,958 ) $ (138,359 ) Foreign exchange settlement $ (100,000 ) $ -

$ (100,000 ) $ -

Sales tax provision $ (146,707 ) $ -

$ (146,707 ) $ (74,520 ) Net Income (Loss) $ (4,746,519 ) $ -

$ (4,746,519 ) $ (3,908,848 )

*Note: The "2023 HUCK" and "2023 Combined" columns contain non-IFRS, unaudited figures.

Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation Table for Q4/2023

Q4



Q4



Q4 2023

Revenue

Aires



HUCK



Combined

Sales $ -

$ 3,746,442

$ 3,746,442

Cost of sales $ -

$ (1,546,300 ) $ (1,546,300 ) Gross margin $ -

$ 2,200,142

$ 2,200,142

Gross margin %

N/A



59%



59%













Core expenses











Advertising and promotion $ -

$ (1,144,965 ) $ (1,144,965 ) Marketing $ -

$ (624,499 ) $ (624,499 ) Core Net Income (Loss) $ -

$ 430,678

$ 430,678













Overhead costs











Office and general $ (43,133 ) $ (40,580 ) $ (83,713 ) Consulting and payroll $ (159,542 ) $ (8,679 ) $ (168,221 ) Legal and professional $ (100,937 ) $ (58 ) $ (100,995 ) Adjusted EBITDA $ (303,612 ) $ 381,362

$ 77,750













Other











Cash royalty income/(expense) $ 168,392

$ (168,392 ) $ -

Stock-based compensation $ (554,744 ) $ -

$ (554,744 ) Interest charges $ (27,843 ) $ -

$ (27,843 ) Equity-based finance charge $ -

$ -

$ -

Consulting fees settled in shares $ (782,057 ) $ -

$ (782,057 ) Depreciation $ (34,489 ) $ -

$ (34,489 ) Foreign exchange settlement $ (100,000 ) $ -

$ (100,000 ) Legal costs - restructuring $ (20,000 ) $ -

$ (20,000 ) Sales tax provision $ (146,707 ) $ -

$ (146,707 ) Net Income (Loss) $ (1,801,061 ) $ 212,970

$ (1,588,091 )

*Note: The "Q4 HUCK" and "Q4 Combined" columns contain non-IFRS, unaudited figures.

In addition, the Company has also extended its engagement of Clarkham Capital Ltd. ("Clarkham") (phone: +44-20-3883-9398; address: Flat 285 - 61 Praed Street, London, W2 1NS, United Kingdom) to provide investor relations and consulting services with a focus on the German stock market and the German-speaking investor community. The services will include the preparation of articles and coverages on several financial platforms and newsletters. The services will also include the translation and distribution of news releases in Germany. The services commenced on April 11, 2024 and will end on May 11, 2024. The Company will pay Clarkham EUR150,000 for its services. The Company will not issue any securities to Clarkham in consideration of the services. The Company and Clarkham deal at arm's length and do not have any prior relationship.

About American Aires Inc.

American Aires Inc. is a Canadian-based nanotechnology company committed to enhancing well-being and environmental safety through science-led innovation, education, and advocacy. The company has developed a proprietary silicon-based resonator that protect against the harmful effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Aires' Lifetune products target EMR emitted by consumer electronic devices such as cellphones, computers, baby monitors, and Wi-Fi, including the more powerful and rapidly expanding high-speed 5G networks. Aires is listed on the CSE under the ticker 'WIFI' and on the OTC Pink under the symbol 'AAIRF'. Learn more at www.investors.airestech.com .

On behalf of the board of directors

Company Contact:

Josh Bruni, CEO

Website: www.investors.airestech.com

Email: wifi@airestech.com

Telephone: (415) 707-0102

The financial results of HUCK included in this news release are unaudited and actual results may vary materially from the estimated results included in this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or supplement the information with respect to HUCK's financial results provided in this press release. The HUCK financial information included in this press release reflects the Company's current estimates based on information available as of the date of this press release and has been prepared by management of the Company. This preliminary financial information should not be viewed as a substitute for full financial statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and is not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved for any future periods.

This news release refers to certain financial performance measures that are not defined by and do not have a standardized meaning under International Financial Reporting Standards including "Adjusted EBITDA" (termed "Non-IFRS measures"). Non-IFRS measures are used by management to assess the financial and operational performance of the Company. The Company believes that these Non-IFRS measures, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, enable investors to evaluate the Company's operating results, underlying performance and prospects in a similar manner to the Company's management. As there are no standardized methods of calculating these Non-IFRS measures, the Company's approach may differ from those used by others, and accordingly, the use of these measures may not be directly comparable. Accordingly, these Non-IFRS measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. The Corporation defines EBITDA as earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation. Adjusted EBITDA removes irregular and non-recurring items that distort EBITDA.

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position and financial measures, future market position, growth, innovations, global impact, business strategy, brand development, product adoption, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, 2024 being our best year ever, continuing our trajectory of revenue growth, relationships with athletes, celebrities and performers, the size and growth of the consumer market focused on wellbeing and EMF protection, strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, the occurrence of force majeure events, developments and changes in laws and regulations, competitive factors, and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements may be discussed in this news release and the Company's annual and quarterly management's discussion and analysis filed at www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The Shares have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of any person in the United States, absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any common shares in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. We seek safe harbour.

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 news release.

1 Please see "HUCK-Aires Reconciliation Table" for a breakdown of order volume generated by Aires and by HUCK pursuant to the Distributor-Royalty agreement between Aires and HUCK, prior to termination of the agreement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205204

SOURCE: American Aires Inc.
Kunstliche Intelligenz hat spatestens nach dem Raketenstart von Chat GPT das Leben aller verandert. Doch der Superzyklus steht nach Meinungen von Experten erst am Anfang. Wahrend Aktien wie Nvidia von der ersten Aufwartsentwicklung stark profitieren konnten, versprechen aussichtsreiche Player aus der

zweiten Reihe noch enormes Aufwartspotenzial.



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Trotz der jungsten Erfolge steht die Entwicklung der kunstlichen Intelligenz noch am Beginn eines neuen Superzyklus. Experten gehen davon aus, dass der Sektor bis 2032 global auf 1,3 Billionen US-Dollar explodieren wird, wobei ein groer Teil auf Hardware und Infrastruktur entfallen wird.



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Irvine, California--(Newsfile Corp. - April 11, 2024) - IRA Capital ("IRA"), a Southern California-based real estate private equity firm, is pleased to announce the acquisition of a 237,000 square-foot life science campus consisting of four, 3-story interconnected buildings located within Columbus Ohio's highly desired Easton submarket. The property is in close proximity to Interstate 270 and John Glenn Columbus International Airport and sits across from Easton Town Center, the 1.7-million square-foot mixed-use development recognized as one of the country's leading urban retail centers.





3435 Stelzer Road in the Easton Submarket of Columbus is home to Sarepta Therapeutics' Gene Therapies Center of Excellence



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10463/205127_1.jpg

The buildings are majority leased to biopharmaceutical company Sarepta Therapeutics ("Sarepta" or "the company") and houses the company's Gene Therapies Center of Excellence. Sarepta specializes in genetic medicines for rare diseases and has four FDA approved drugs treating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, including its flagship treatment Elevydis. The facility expands Sarepta's research and development capabilities for the company's pipeline of genetic medicines and supports process development enabling the transition from clinical-scale to commercial-scale manufacturing.

As an active player in the healthcare real estate space, IRA was drawn to the acquisition of the asset after conducting a thorough diligence process on Sarepta and its life-changing therapies, in addition to the company's commitment to the Columbus market. According to IRA Capital partner Amer Kasm, "We were intrigued by Columbus' growing biotech presence specifically as it relates to the cell and gene therapy industry; companies like Abbott Labs' and Forge Biologics' have gene therapy manufacturing facilities nearby."

Although most healthcare real estate investors focus on core life-science markets such as Cambridge, San Francisco, and San Diego, IRA has bucked the trend and has acquired life science assets in other non-core markets. For example, IRA previously acquired Pharmaceutical Product Development's largest GMP facility in Madison Wisconsin. Mr. Kasm explained that "Life Science companies with a presence in markets like Madison and Columbus benefit from lower operating costs and can leverage local fundamental drivers that generate efficiency. In the case of Madison, PPD's ability to draw robust talent from The University of Wisconsin is a big advantage. Similarly, Sarepta and other gene therapy companies in Columbus have benefitted tremendously by collaborating with Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University, which offer a pipeline of talent for the 30+ life science facilities in the Columbus market." IRA closed the acquisition on an all-cash basis and is actively pursuing additional life science opportunities.

About IRA Capital

IRA Capital "IRA" is a Southern-California based private equity firm founded in 2010 by partners Amer Kasm, Samir Patel, Jay Gangwal, Amer Malas, and Mohannad Malas. IRA has invested greater than $3.2 Billion of capital since inception for its own account and on behalf of its co-investment partners, which include pension funds, institutions, and family offices. Having acquired over eight million square feet of property across 30 states, IRA's portfolio is heavily concentrated within the healthcare real estate sector with a focus on medical facilities, senior living, and life science assets.

For more information, please contact:

Danielle de Souza, IRA Capital Corporate Communications

ddesouza@iracapital.com / 949.612.2742

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205127

SOURCE: IRA Capital, LLC
Kupfer wird oft als das Gold der Energiewende bezeichnet, weil es aufgrund seiner hervorragenden elektrischen Leitfahigkeit eine zentrale Rolle in vielen Technologien spielt, die fur nachhaltige Energiesysteme entscheidend sind. Experten gehen aufgrund der Angebotsknappheit von einem Superzyklus aus.

Korrektur als Einstiegschance

Nach Hochststanden im Mai korrigierte das rote Metall stark. Die Abwartsspirale verstarkte sich in den vergangenen Tagen aufgrund schwacher Konjunkturdaten aus den USA und China. Langfristig konnte sich die aktuell laufende Korrektur als exzellente Einstiegsmoglichkeit herausstellen.

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PUNE, India, April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report titled "Passenger Car Seat Market by Type (Bucket Seat, Split Bench), Technology (Heated, Massage, Memory), Component, Material, Vehicle Type, Distribution Channel - Global Forecast 2024-2030" is now available on 360iResearch.com's offering, presents an analysis indicating that the market projected to grow from a size of $46.10 billion in 2023 to reach $66.32 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.32% over the forecast period.

" Advancements and Consumer Demand Propel the Global Passenger Car Seat Market to New Heights "

The global market for passenger car seats is witnessing rapid growth, led by increasing demands for enhanced comfort, safety, and innovative technologies across the automotive industry. As vehicle production and sales surge, especially in emerging markets, there is a notable rise in the need for seats that match the evolving standards of luxury and ergonomic design. Factors such as economic growth, advancements in material technology, and stringent vehicle safety norms drive this trend. Additionally, the shift toward environmentally friendly materials and the rising popularity of features such as adjustable lumbar support, temperature control, and memory settings reflect a broader consumer preference for premium, feature-rich vehicles. However, challenges such as raw material scarcity and regulatory complexities hinder the growth. Regardless of challenges, the market is ripe with opportunities, particularly with the growing interest in electric and hybrid vehicles alongside autonomous driving technologies. Regions worldwide exhibit unique preferences; the Americas are inclined to advanced functionalities and eco-friendly options, Europe prioritizes ergonomics and aesthetics, while the Asia-Pacific, led by rapid industrialization and innovation, leans toward luxury and advanced technological integration. This global demand for high-quality passenger car seats, combined with a commitment to safety and sustainability, underscores the bright prospects for the industry's future.

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" Revolutionizing Comfort and Style: The New Era of Passenger Car Seats "

The automotive sector is undergoing a remarkable evolution, placing an equal focus on vehicle aesthetics, ergonomics, and the comfort of passenger car seats, a critical factor in enriching the driving and seating experience. With an increasing inclination toward ergonomic designs, car seats are being crafted to provide optimal support to the back, neck, and legs, thereby minimizing the discomfort and potential health concerns associated with long-duration travel. Recognizing this shift in consumer preferences, manufacturers are dedicating substantial resources toward researching and developing car seats that combine superior design, material quality, and functionality. Additionally, the burgeoning trend for customization allows consumers to infuse their car interiors with personal touches, choosing from a wide assortment of materials, colors, and finishes to reflect their unique style and lifestyle preferences. This pivotal movement toward customized, aesthetically pleasing, and ergonomically designed car seats is poised to fuel a significant surge in demand, heralding a new chapter in automotive interior innovation.

" Embracing Flexibility and Comfort: The Rise of Split Bench Seat Innovations in Modern Vehicles "

In today's automotive landscape, the adoption of split bench seats signifies a leap toward unparalleled versatility in seating configurations, offering a blend of utility and comfort that caters to the diverse needs of passengers. Uniquely designed, bucket seats offer a superior comfort experience, shaped ergonomically with side supports to enhance stability through turns and prolonged journeys. These seats are improved with customizable adjustments, ranging from lumbar support to temperature control, to optimize passenger comfort. Meanwhile, split bench seats redefine adaptability, featuring a singular cushioned platform capable of serving multiple occupants simultaneously. The distinct attribute of these benches is their capability to fold in segments independently, thus promoting a remarkable balance between passenger accommodation and cargo flexibility. This innovative seating solution not only underscores the evolution of vehicle interiors but also aligns perfectly with the dynamic lifestyle of modern consumers, combining convenience with comfort.

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" Magna International Inc. at the Forefront of Passenger Car Seat Market with a Strong 10.28% Market Share "

The key players in the Passenger Car Seat Market include Continental AG, Lear Corporation, Faurecia Group, Magna International Inc., Adient PLC, and others. These prominent players focus on strategies such as expansions, acquisitions, joint ventures, and developing new products to strengthen their market positions.

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We proudly unveil ThinkMi, a cutting-edge AI product designed to transform how businesses interact with the Passenger Car Seat Market. ThinkMi stands out as your premier market intelligence partner, delivering unparalleled insights with the power of artificial intelligence. Whether deciphering market trends or offering actionable intelligence, ThinkMi is engineered to provide precise, relevant answers to your most critical business questions. This revolutionary tool is more than just an information source; it's a strategic asset that empowers your decision-making with up-to-the-minute data, ensuring you stay ahead in the fiercely competitive Passenger Car Seat Market. Embrace the future of market analysis with ThinkMi, where informed decisions lead to remarkable growth.

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" Dive into the Passenger Car Seat Market Landscape: Explore 192 Pages of Insights, 750 Tables, and 28 Figures "

Preface Research Methodology Executive Summary Market Overview Market Insights Passenger Car Seat Market, by Type Passenger Car Seat Market, by Technology Passenger Car Seat Market, by Component Passenger Car Seat Market, by Material Passenger Car Seat Market, by Vehicle Type Passenger Car Seat Market, by Distribution Channel Americas Passenger Car Seat Market Asia-Pacific Passenger Car Seat Market Europe, Middle East & Africa Passenger Car Seat Market Competitive Landscape Competitive Portfolio

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Related Reports:

Automotive Seat Massage System Market - Global Forecast 2024-2030 Automotive Seats Market - Global Forecast 2024-2030 Automotive Seat Actuation System Market - Global Forecast 2024-2030

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Der Goldpreis haussiert und schwingt sich von Hoch zu Hoch. Getrieben von geopolitischen Unsicherheiten sowie der Aussicht auf eine lockere Geldpolitik der FED gehen Experten aktuell von weiter steigenden Notierungen bis sogar in den Bereich von 3.000 US-Dollar je Unze Gold aus.



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Notice is given that the Annual General Meeting of Norsk Hydro ASA will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 10:00 (CEST).

The Annual General Meeting will be held as a hybrid meeting, and shareholders may attend either in person or digitally. It is also possible to vote in advance or attend the meeting by proxy.

There is no requirement to register attendance prior to the Annual General Meeting*. Shareholders who wish to attend physically are encouraged to register this within May 3, 2024, at 16:00 CEST.

In person participation: The Annual General Meeting will be held at Norsk Hydro ASA's offices at Vker, Drammensveien 260, 0283 Oslo.

Digital participation: Please refer to the attached guide for information on online participation, appendix 8.

The notice including appendices is attached. All relevant documents may also be found on hydro.com/generalmeeting.

Investor contact:

Martine Rambl Hagen

+47 91708918

Martine.Rambol.Hagen@hydro.com

Media contact:

Halvor Molland

+47 92979797

Halvor.Molland@hydro.com

*Does not apply to shareholders who hold shares through nominee accounts. Please see the notice for the Annual General Meeting for further information.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

Attachments
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Velox Energy Materials Inc. (TSXV:VLX) ("Velox" or "the Company") advises that joint Corporate Secretary, Ms Karien Slabbert, has resigned effective from 12 April 2024. Ms Silfia Morton remains as Corporate Secretary.

Release approved by the Chief Executive Officer and President of Velox Energy Materials Inc, Simon Coyle.

Please visit our website at www.veloxenergymaterials.com.au for further information.

Investor Relations Contacts

Iryna Zheliasko

Investor Relations - Canada

Office: (+1) 647-249-9298

Email: iryna@grovecorp.ca Andrew Rowell

Investor Relations - Australia

M: +61 400 466 226

Email: andrew@whitenoisecomms.com

About Velox Energy Materials

Velox Energy Materials is a publicly traded energy materials company developing and progressing high-value assets in resource and research-friendly jurisdictions. The Company's priority focus is the advanced NQV Project in Queensland, Australia. The NQV Project hosts the Cambridge Deposit with an CIM compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 61.33 Mt @ 0.34% V2O5 and 234.6 ppm MoO3 along with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 144.87 Mt @ 0.33% V2O5 (cut-off grade of 0.25% V2O5) and 241.9 ppm MoO3 (Technical Report and Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate, North Queensland Vanadium Project, Queensland, Australia, Dufresne et al, December 16, 2022). The Company is targeting shallow, high-grade mineralisation that can be developed using low-cost mining and processing options.

The Company additionally owns Kotai Energy and the option to acquire 100% of the intellectual property rights associated with the Solid-State Hydrogen Storage Project from Curtin University in Western Australia. Kotai is focused on the commercialisation of technology that can produce high-pressure hydrogen following transport as an inert powder.

In October 2023, the Company acquired a package of tenements that are prospective for lithium in eastern Quebec.

SOURCE: Velox Energy Materials Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Burnaby, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 12, 2024) - Great Eagle Gold Corp. (CSE: GEGC) (FSE: GI8) ("Great Eagle" or the "Company"), the world's premier NatGold Miner, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Moses to its Board of Directors and the commencement of non-brokered private placement financing.

Michael Moses, a distinguished figure in business development and strategy within the burgeoning medical cannabis and investment sectors, spearheads growth initiatives since September 2023 as the Chief Business Development Officer and Strategy Consultant for Allied Health, operating in Canada and Colombia. His tenure commenced in November 2022 as a Business Development Consultant, where he was instrumental in steering the company's reorganization and strategic direction. Moses also successfully built the commercial arm of the business from the ground up, from assembling a sales team to establishing pivotal manufacturing and export partnerships across Europe and Australia.

Parallel to his role at Allied Health, Moses contributes his strategic expertise to Parkdale Investments S.A. in Geneva, Switzerland, since June 2022, enhancing their wealth management and investment solutions. His profound impact was also felt in the restructuring of a Luxembourg-based trade finance fund, showcasing his proficiency in navigating complex regulatory landscapes.

As the Founder and CEO of Donaco from 2017 to 2022, Moses pioneered a tech-led platform significantly improving online customer outreach for social impact businesses, notably reducing customer acquisition costs and securing prominent partnerships, including with UNICEF UK and Crisis UK. His venture underscored his dedication to generating social impact through innovative business models.

Moses holds a Master's degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Management from Imperial College London, achieved between 2013 and 2017. Michael Moses embodies the intersection of strategic innovation, operational excellence, and social responsibility in his multifaceted career.

Chris Hansen, Chairman of Great Eagle Gold, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It is with great pleasure that we welcome Michael to our esteemed team. Michael has exhibited remarkable business acumen and infuses Great Eagle with an infectious sense of passion. In addition to his organizational development skills, his demonstrated prowess in securing financing for expanding enterprises is expected to be immensely valuable to Great Eagle's growth trajectory."

Concurrently with his appointment, Mr. Moses was granted 100,000 incentive stock options pursuant to the terms of the Company's stock option plan. Such options are exercisable at the price of $0.51 until April 11, 2029.

Private Placement Financing

The Company intends to complete a non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of up to $500,000 (the "Financing"). This is expected to consist of up to 1,315,790 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.38 per Unit, or as determined by Great Eagle management in accordance with Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Exchange") regulations. Each Unit will include one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant will be exercisable for an additional common share of Great Eagle at $0.75 per share for twenty-four months following the closing of the Financing. The Financing, subject to an over-allotment of up to $150,000 at the Company' s discretion, will be subject to Exchange acceptance, and all securities issued will adhere to a four-month hold period as per applicable securities legislation.

Great Eagle plans to pay finder's fees of up to 10% in cash and warrants in connection with the Financing. Certain directors, officers, and insiders of Great Eagle may participate in the Financing. Net proceeds are expected to be used for acquisition due diligence reviews, payment of current liabilities and ongoing working capital requirements.

Andrew Fletcher, CEO of Great Eagle, commented, "This small working capital financing is primarily being used to complete the evaluation and due diligence on potential new acquisition targets. During the past several months, Great Eagle has been diligently reviewing dozens of potential acquisition candidates. We are pleased to have short-listed that evaluation process and are now entering into the final negotiation stage process and anticipate an exciting road ahead."

About Great Eagle Gold Corp.

Great Eagle Gold Corp. (CSE: GEGC) (FSE: GI8), a Canadian public company, is the world's premier NatGold miner. Championed by the Geneva-based International NatGold Council, NatGold represents a pioneering fusion of ESG principles, gold investment security, and digital asset innovation, positioning itself at the forefront of a super-trend that merges these three domains into one unparalleled real-world asset-backed investment opportunity. NatGold captures gold's intrinsic value via a novel, legislatively supported, ESG-friendly digital mining process instead of traditional physical extraction.

Great Eagle's unique strategy centers on acquiring NI 43-101 certified gold resources to digitally mine NatGold coins within the cutting-edge NatGold tokenization and monetization ecosystem, operated by New York-based OroEx Corp. This approach allows Great Eagle Gold to adopt an innovative, ESG-friendly method to monetize gold's intrinsic value. The company's acquisition strategy is internationally focused, aiming to secure mining titles with NI 43-101 certified gold resources, in readiness for the expected global adoption of NatGold legislation that will enhance tokenization opportunities worldwide.

Great Eagle Gold Corp.

Chris Hansen, Chairman

For further information please contact:

Email: info@greateaglegold.com

Website: www.greateaglegold.com

Phone Number: +1 (415) 300-6144

Investor inquiries:

Green Gold Communications S.A.S.

Worldwide Toll Free: +1 (877) 513-5213

Direct +1 (775) 341-6015

Email: Info@greengoldcommunications.com

The securities referred to herein will not be or have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to Great Eagle's operations and the acquisition of NI 43-101 certified gold resources, the ability to digitally mine NatGold coins, the viability of the NatGold tokenization and monetization ecosystem, and development plans, expansion plans, estimates, expectations, forecasts, objectives, predictions and projections of the future. Specifically, this news release contains forward looking statements with respect to Great Eagle's proposed operations, acquiring and developing certified gold resources and their tokenization, and the receipt of required approvals. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the forward- looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "projects", "intends", "anticipates", or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or "variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "can", "could", "would", "might", or "will" be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". 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 Great Eagle to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the exploration and development and operation of Great Eagle's projects, the actual results of current exploration, development activities, conclusions of economic evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future precious metals prices, as well as those factors discussed in the sections relating to risk factors of our business filed in Great Eagle's required securities filings on SEDAR+. Although Great Eagle has attempted to identify important factors that could cause results to differ materially from those contained in forward- looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities law. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of, or statements made, by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205201

SOURCE: Great Eagle Gold Corp.
Redde Northgate Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, April 12

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

11 April 2024

REDDE NORTHGATE PLC

("Redde Northgate" or the "Group" or the "Company")

Transaction in Own Shares

Redde Northgate plc (LSE:REDD) announces that on 11 April 2024 it purchased the following number of its own shares to be held in treasury:

Class of shares : Ordinary shares of 50p ("shares") Number of shares purchased : 50,000 Weighted average purchase price paid : 381 pence per share Highest purchase price paid : 381 pence per share Lowest purchase price paid : 381 pence per share

Following the above transaction, the Company's issued share capital consists of 246,091,423 ordinary shares of 50p each, of which 20,406,862 ordinary shares are held in treasury, and 1,000,000 preference shares of 50p each which do not carry any rights to vote. Therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 225,684,561 which may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) as incorporated into UK domestic law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, the schedule below contains detailed information about the purchases made by Numis Securities Limited on behalf of the Company as part of the Company's buyback programme.

Schedule of Purchase - Individual Transaction (as at 11 April 2024)

Number of shares

purchased Transaction price

(GB pence per share) Time of transaction Transaction reference number Venue 50,000 381.00 10:49:04 00069540364TRLO0 LSE

Notes

This announcement is made in accordance with the requirements of Listing Rule 12.4.6.

For further information contact:

Buchanan

David Rydell/Jamie Hooper/Hannah Ratcliff +44 (0) 207 466 5000

Notes to Editors:

Redde Northgate is the leading integrated mobility solutions platform providing services across the vehicle lifecycle. The Company offers integrated mobility solutions to businesses, fleet operators, insurers, OEMs and other customers across seven key areas: vehicle rental, vehicle data, accident management, vehicle repairs, fleet management, service and maintenance, vehicle ancillary services and vehicle sales.

The Company's core purpose is to keep its customers mobile, whether through meeting their regular mobility needs or by servicing and supporting them when unforeseen events occur. With its considerable scale and reach, Redde Northgate's mission is to offer a market-leading customer proposition and drive enhanced returns for shareholders by creating value through sustainable compounding growth. The Group aims to achieve this through the delivery of its strategic framework of Focus, Drive and Broaden.

Redde Northgate services its customers through a network and diversified fleet of over 120,000 owned and leased vehicles, supporting over 600,000 managed vehicles, with more than 170 workshop, body shop and rental locations across the UK, Ireland and Spain and a specialist team of over 6,000 automotive services professionals.

Further information please visit the Company's website:
Kendrion today announced that it has entered into an agreement to sell its Automotive business in Europe and the United States to Solero Technologies LLC ("Solero Technologies") and affiliates.Through this transaction, Kendrion initiates a strategic repositioning by focussing entirely on industrial growth opportunities in Europe, the US and China. The proceeds from the sale will be used to strengthen the balance sheet and to reinvest in the Industrial business. The strategic shift in its portfolio will enable Kendrion to strengthen its position in driving the worldwide transition to electrification and sustainable energy.The transaction implies an enterprise value of EUR 65 million for the divested business. Solero Technologies, a leading global supplier of transmission solenoids, engine solenoids, stop-start accumulators and hydraulic control modules with recent development and launches of active suspension and electrification components, will effectuate this transaction with support from Atar Capital LLC ("Atar Capital"). The revenue associated with the divestment is around EUR 210 million, or approximately 80% of Kendrion's Automotive revenue. The European Automotive Sound and Electronics business and China Automotive are excluded from the agreement and will remain with Kendrion. These activities will be integrated into Industrial Actuators and Controls (IAC).Joep van Beurden, Kendrion CEO: "Today's announcement reflects an important strategic decision to put our focus exclusively on opportunities within our Industrial Brakes and Industrial Actuators and Controls business groups in Europe, China and the US. The transaction will strengthen our ability to invest in the significant opportunities in the Industrial sector fuelling further profitable growth. With Solero Technologies and support from Atar Capital, our Automotive business in Europe and the US will become part of a pure play Automotive company, fully dedicated to the sector in these regions. Kendrion's remaining Automotive activities in electronics and China will be integrated into IAC. They will be managed in the same way as all other market segments in IAC, with strict parameters in terms of opportunity size and profitability. By focussing entirely on our Industrial opportunities, we believe we are in an even better position to play a pivotal role in driving the worldwide transition to electrification and sustainable energy."As part of the strategic repositioning, Kendrion will focus its product development resources entirely on the industrial segments and China. The investments in product development for Automotive Sound will be discontinued. Following the sale of the Automotive business in Europe and the US, Kendrion will initiate a rightsizing of the organisation, aligning its overhead resources more effectively with its remaining activities. In combination with the discontinuation of Automotive Sound product development, this is expected to yield annual cost savings of around EUR 8 million. The cost savings are expected to be fully effective as from 1 January 2025.The EBITDA contribution associated with the divestiture was EUR 19 million in FY 2023. The net impact from the strategic repositioning is EUR 11 million, leading to a pro-forma normalized EBITDA of Kendrion for FY 2023 of EUR 42.1 million, instead of the reported underlying EBITDA for FY 2023 of EUR 53.1 million. Based on FY 2023 pro-forma figures the transaction is accretive for both the EBITDA margin and EPS.Closing of the transaction is envisaged for Q3 2024, subject to customary conditions. The total expected one-off costs related to the transaction, the discontinuation of Sound product development and reduction in overhead, are expected to be EUR 8 million and will be largely incurred in H2 of 2024.Analysts'audio webcastKendrion CEO Joep van Beurden and CFO Jeroen Hemmen will present the strategic and financial impact of the transaction and the repositioning to the analysts' community today in an audio webcast at 11.00 a.m. CEST. The audio webcast can be viewed on this website. The recording will be available at 2.00 p.m. on www.kendrion.com.Capital Markets DayKendrion will hold a Capital Markets Day for analysts, investors and shareholders on Thursday, 5 September 2024 in Amsterdam. More details and the invitation will follow in due course.Amsterdam, 12 April 2024The Executive BoardFor more information, please contact:Kendrion N.V.Mr Joep van BeurdenChief Executive OfficerTel: +31 6 82 56 85 65Email: IR@kendrion.comAbout Kendrion N.V.Kendrion designs, manufactures, and delivers intelligent actuators that help advance the global push towards electrification and sustainable energy. Today, our compact and connected actuators can be found in wind power, robots, factory automation, electric vehicles, energy distribution, and industrial heating processes, where they support our OEM customers around the world to transition to safe and clean forms of energy.As a technology pioneer and innovator, building on a foundation of over 100 years of experience, we are driven by a desire to explore creative solutions for the engineering challenges of tomorrow. We take broad responsibility for how we source, manufacture, and conduct business. Sustainable business practices are integrated in our processes and embedded in our culture. Rooted in Germany, headquartered in the Netherlands, and listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange, our footprint extends across Europe to the Americas and Asia.About Solero Technologies LLCSolero Technologies is a leading global supplier of transmission solenoids, engine solenoids, stop-start accumulators, and hydraulic control modules with recent development and launches of active suspension and electrification components. The company is based in Michigan and Mississippi in the United States.About Atar Capital LLCAtar Capital is a global private investment firm that benefits from over 80 years of combined buy-out, investing, and asset management experience. The firm's principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries, worldwide. Atar Capital's combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge, and investment experience provides a unique edge in identifying and driving growth that makes a difference.
PRESS RELEASE

Paris, 12 April 2024

La Poste Groupe publishes its 2023 Universal Registration Document

The 2023 Universal Registration Document has been filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers) on 4 April 2024, under number D. 24?0235.

This Universal Registration Document notably includes:

the 2023 annual financial report;

the Board of Directors report on corporate governance; as well as

the management report including the non-financial performance statement.

It is made available to the public free of charge under the conditions set out by the regulations in force and may be consulted and downloaded from La Poste Groupe website (www.groupelaposte.com) on the  Investors / Regulated Information / Annual financial reports  page.

Copies of the Universal Registration Document are also available at the group's registered office, located 9, rue du Colonel Pierre Avia, 75015 Paris.



______________________________

About La Poste Groupe

La Poste is a state-owned public limited company, a subsidiary of Caisse des Depots and the French State. La Poste Groupe is divided into four business units: Services-Mail-Parcels, Retail Customers and Digital Services, Geopost and La Banque Postale, which, with its subsidiary CNP Assurances, is the 11th largest bancassurer in the eurozone. La Poste Groupe has four public service missions that shape its identity: universal postal service, regional development, banking accessibility, and press transport and delivery. Committed to its regional coverage, La Poste Groupe relies on its network of local, human and digital services, the largest in France. This network comprises 37,500 contact points, including 17,000 postal contact points (post offices, local postal agencies, retail pickup points) and more than 20,500 points of access to a postal service (pick-up points in retail outlets and lockers, and Espaces Pro areas). La Poste Groupe delivers yearly over 15 billion items worldwide (letters, printed advertising media and parcels), six days a week. In 2023, La Poste Groupe generated 34.1 billion in revenue, of which 44% were generated outside France, and had a headcount of 233,000, in more than 60 countries over 5 continents, of which more than 179,000 in France. As part of its strategic plan "La Poste 2030, committed for you", the public company has set itself the course for profitable and responsible growth in France and abroad, based on a robust multi-business model. As a mission-driven company since 2021 and a leader in environmental transition and sustainable finance, La Poste Groupe is committed to reaching "net zero emissions" by 2040.

Financial Communication and Investor Relations

Olivier Gall

Tel: +33 6 22 25 50 42

olivier.gall@laposte.fr



Annie Dupeyron

Tel: +33 6 48 00 61 49

annie.dupeyron@laposte.fr



Stephane Dalla Sartora

Tel: +33 7 87 39 58 80

stephane.dalla-sartora@laposte.fr Press relations

Tel: +33 1 55 44 22 37

service.presse@laposte.fr

------------------------

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SBORG, Denmark, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cbio A/S - Pioneering Next-Gen T-Cell Therapies for Solid Tumors, Unveils 2023 Financial Results and Company Updates.



Ulrik Cordes, Founder & CEO of Cbio, stated: "2023 was another great year for Cbio. We finalized the preclinical development of our lead T-cell therapy asset, novoleucel and made considerable progress in preparing for our upcoming phase I/II clinical trial at Karolinska, where we will treat 20 patients with late-stage cervical cancer.

Ulrik Cordes continues: "Our top priority for 2024 is to start our first clinical trial, thereby reaching a major value inflection point. Within the T-cell therapy space, Cbio holds a strong position, and we are dedicated to driving the industry towards our mission to enable cancer cure."

Recent and full year 2023 highlights:

Completion of the preclinical development for the cervical cancer indication of novoleucel, a novel broad-spectrum T-cell therapy product with transformative potential



Preclinical proof-of-concept for our REVITA platform technology demonstrating its applicability in kidney, ovarian and pancreatic cancers in collaboration with Odense University Hospital



First patent allowed. 'Intention to grant' letter received from the European Patent Office for our base T-cell technology



In-licensing of a key T-cell therapy technology from Karolinska arming T-cells against oxidative stress, a major escape route for cancers to evade the immune system, especially in gynecological cancers



Secured DKK 28 million in non-dilutive financing from Innovation Fund Denmark and DKK 12 million in equity from new and existing shareholders, securing runway to 2026 as well as the completion of our phase I/II clinical trial at Karolinska in Stockholm





Full year 2023 financial results

The income statement for 01.01.23 - 31.12.23 shows a loss of DKK 621,556 against DKK -8,975,691 for 01.01.22 - 31.12.22 in line with the expected burn rate. The balance sheet shows equity of DKK 5,743,164.

About Cbio A/S

Cbio A/S is a biopharmaceutical company located in Copenhagen dedicated to improving the lives of patients and ultimately curing them with late-stage cancers by making T-cell-based therapies available to patients worldwide. Cbio's unique and proprietary technology forms the basis for a differentiated T-cell product with transformative potential.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/da804352-900d-42d4-ac10-eb9515473640


As the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world's first national-level import-themed expo, enters its seventh year, more industry players are hailing the expo as "rewarding and forward-looking".

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240410148740/en/

442 new products, technologies and services debuted at the sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE). (Photo: Business Wire)

Past CIIEs saw fruitful results

Over the years, companies from 173 countries and regions have made appearances at the CIIE and achieved $424.23 billion in tentative transactions.

The CIIE is a must-attend event for Danish companies interested in doing business in China and some 20 Danish companies exhibited products at CIIE 2023.

French companies, from industry giants like L'Oreal, LVMH, and INAPORC to small and medium-sized enterprises, have also benefited from the annual trade fair.

In addition to the Business Exhibition, 72 countries and international organizations wowed visitors with their scientific and technological achievements, culture and art at the Country Exhibition of the sixth CIIE.

Hongqiao Forum highlights global issues

Eyeing to become a more productive event, organizers of the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, a crucial part of the annual CIIE, held a symposium in Beijing in early March and invited more than 130 important figures to contribute to this year's topics.

Last year, the forum saw a record attendance of over 8,000 people and featured 22 sub-forums on a range of subjects, from financial reform and innovation to digital governance.

"The Hongqiao International Economic Forum should maintain its focus on openness to promote cooperation and mutual benefits", said Yi Xiaozhun, the former deputy director-general of the World Trade Organization.

CIIE 2024 welcomes more participants

The seventh CIIE will hold another series of global roadshows in Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, France, Denmark and Italy this April.

"So far, over 240,000 sqm of the Business Exhibition area has been booked by early exhibitors," said Wu Zhengping, deputy director-general of the CIIE bureau.

Grab your spot now at:

https://www.ciie.org/exhibition/f/book/register?locale=en&from=press

Website:http://www.ciie.org/zbh/en/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ciieonline

Twitter:https://twitter.com/ciieonline

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240410148740/en/

Contacts:

Ms. Cui Yan

Tel.:0086-21-968888

Email:exhibition@ciie.org
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ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia, April 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Steppe Gold Ltd. (TSX: STGO) (OTCQX: STPGF) (FSE: 2J9) ("Steppe Gold") is pleased to announce that, further to its press releases dated January 22, 2024 and March 19, 2024, it has entered into a share exchange agreement (the "Share Exchange Agreement") pursuant to which Steppe Gold will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares (the "BG Common Shares") of Boroo Gold LLC ("Boroo Gold") from an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Boroo Pte Ltd. ("Boroo Singapore") in an all-share transaction (the "Boroo Gold Transaction").



Additionally, pursuant to separate definitive share purchase agreements (the "Share Purchase Agreements"), each between one of Steppe Gold's wholly-owned subsidiaries, on the one hand, and Boroo Singapore or one of its affiliates, on the other hand, each dated April 11, 2024, Steppe Gold will sell the Tres Cruces Oxide Project (the "Tres Cruces Project") to Boroo Singapore for approximately CAD$12 million in cash (the "Tres Cruces Transaction") payable over the next 18 months beginning as of the Closing Date (as defined in the Share Purchase Agreements).

Highlights

The Boroo Gold Transaction will create Mongolia's leading gold producer Acquisition of a leading gold producer, Boroo Gold, will create Mongolia's leading gold producer Boroo Singapore will hold approximately 55.9% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Steppe Gold (" Steppe Common Shares ") on a fully diluted basis, immediately following the completion of the Boroo Gold Transaction

Immediate and strong cash flows to Steppe Gold Boroo Gold estimates over 400,000 oz of gold production from 2024 to 2031, with projected average annual production of approximately 60,000 oz in 2024, 2025 and 2026 In 2023, Boroo Gold had revenue of US$132 million on production of 67,315 oz of gold, with an AISC of $847 per oz, at an average achieved gold price of $1,957 per oz Boroo Gold is forecasting similar production levels in 2024, albeit with higher sustaining costs

Long standing and strong social license The Boroo gold mine comes with a long and proud history of positive impact in Mongolia: Over US$1,020 million in benefits to Mongolia since 2003 (taxes and fees, CAPEX, donations, payments to local companies for goods and services and salaries to national employees) Over US$17.5 million in donations and investments in local Soums between 2007 and 2023 under its framework of social responsibility

Steppe Gold combined gold production in 2024 projected to be 90,000 oz, rising to an estimated annualized 150,000 oz in 2026 as the ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion is planned to come on stream in mid-2026

Significant value upside from: Potential cost synergies from combined purchasing power and lower relative administration costs Increasing Reserves and Resources near the existing mines

Divestment of the Tres Cruces Project to the likely highest value buyer, returning Steppe Gold's singular focus to Mongolia

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and CEO of Steppe Gold, commented: "We are very pleased to announce the agreement to acquire Boroo Gold. This transaction accelerates our path to a multi-asset Mongolia-focused mining group and, importantly, immediately provides strong cash flow to support our growth plans, further improved with the recent strong gold prices. In connection with the completion of this transaction we expect to finish 2024 with a run rate of around 90,000 oz in gold production, moving to over 150,000 oz in 2026 on a pro forma basis. We have also decided to divest the Tres Cruces Project to further improve our liquidity and sharpen our focus on Mongolia."

Boroo Gold Transaction Details

Share Exchange Agreement

Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, Steppe Gold will acquire all of the BG Common Shares in consideration for the issuance by Steppe Gold of 138,150,000 Steppe Common Shares, or that number of Steppe Common Shares that results in Boroo Singapore, directly or indirectly, holding 55.9% of the issued and outstanding Steppe Common Shares (calculated on a fully-diluted basis) upon completion of the Boroo Gold Transaction. Steppe Gold will seek approval for the issuance of Steppe Common Shares in connection with the Boroo Gold Transaction at Steppe Gold's annual general and special meeting of shareholders (the "Meeting"), which is expected to be held in June 2024.

The Boroo Gold Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of approval by Steppe Gold's shareholders at the Meeting, and certain regulatory approvals, including the approvals of the Toronto Stock Exchange and applicable Mongolian authorities. Additionally, it is a condition to the closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction that the Tres Cruces Transaction has closed.

All of the directors and executive officers of Steppe Gold have entered into support and voting agreements pursuant to which they have agreed to support the Boroo Gold Transaction and to vote in favour of the Boroo Gold Transaction, subject to the provisions of such support and voting agreements.

The Share Exchange Agreement includes customary representations, warranties and covenants, including with respect to non-solicitation of alternative transactions, a right to match superior proposals and a fiduciary out in respect of the same. In addition, each of Boroo Singapore and Steppe Gold have agreed to pay a termination fee if the Share Exchange Agreement is terminated upon the occurrence of certain events.

Further details with respect to the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction will be included in the information circular to be mailed to Steppe Gold's shareholders in connection with the Meeting. Provided all conditions precedent in the Share Exchange Agreement are satisfied or waived in a timely manner (including the closing of the Tres Cruces Transaction), it is currently anticipated that the Boroo Gold Transaction will close in the third quarter of 2024. A copy of the Share Exchange Agreement, the Share Purchase Agreements and the information circular in respect of the Meeting will be filed on Steppe Gold's SEDAR+ profile and will be available for viewing at www.sedarplus.ca.

Investor Rights Agreement

At the closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction, Steppe Gold will enter into an investor rights agreement with Boroo Singapore (the "Investor Rights Agreement"). Pursuant to the Investor Rights Agreement, Boroo Singapore will have the right to nominate up to two directors (the "Boroo Nominees") to the board of directors of Steppe Gold (the "Steppe Board"), subject to Boroo Singapore maintaining ownership of at least 10% of the issued and outstanding Steppe Common Shares, and other terms and conditions as further set forth in the Investor Rights Agreement. In addition, Boroo Singapore will be provided with certain governance rights, so long as it maintains certain Steppe Common Share ownership thresholds, including pre-emptive rights and customary registration rights. The key executive management team of Steppe Gold will remain in place following closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction.

Expected Management Team on Closing

Bataa Tumur-Ochir (Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) Tserenbadam Duger (Chief Operating Officer) Jeremy South (SVP and Chief Financial Officer) Byambatseren Tsogbadrakh (President & Vice President, Finance)

Benefits of the Boroo Gold Transaction

The Boroo Gold Transaction is expected to provide meaningful benefits to shareholders of Steppe Gold, including:

Increased gold production to 90,000 oz per annum in 2025 and 150,000 oz per annum by 2026.

Strong cash flow and increased financial strength to service ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion debt and project financing.

Funding for exploration programs and further acquisition opportunities in Mongolia.

Liquidity from the sale of the Tres Cruces Project.

Creation of a multi-asset producer with a strong base and focus in Mongolia.



Tres Cruces Transaction Details

Steppe Gold is also pleased to announce that it has entered into the Share Purchase Agreements, pursuant to which Boroo Singapore will acquire the Tres Cruces Project by purchasing all of the issued and outstanding shares of two of Steppe Gold's indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries for aggregate cash consideration of approximately CAD$12 million. The consideration is payable in four installments over a period of 18 months starting on the Closing Date (as defined in the Share Purchase Agreements). The Tres Cruces Transaction is expected to close in July 2024, following which, the Boroo Gold Transaction will close subsequently thereafter.

The Tres Cruces Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is cross conditional on the closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction.

Recommendation of the Steppe Board

Based on an independent verbal fairness opinion provided by Sequeira Partners, in respect of the Boroo Gold Transaction, and after consulting with its financial and legal advisors, among other considerations, the Steppe Board has unanimously: (i) determined that each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction is fair to Steppe Gold; (ii) approved each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction and the entering into of the Share Exchange Agreement and Share Purchase Agreements, respectively, is in the best interests of Steppe Gold; and (iii) resolved to recommend that Steppe Gold's shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction Resolution (as defined in the Share Exchange Agreement).

Advisors

Steppe Gold's legal counsel is Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP. Boroo Singapore's Canadian legal counsel is Stikeman Elliott LLP. Payet, Rey, Cauvi, Perez Abogados are Peruvian legal counsel to Steppe Gold and Boroo Singapore. Steppe Gold's financial advisor is Sequeira Partners. Boroo Singapore's financial advisor is Cormark Securities Inc.

Qualified Persons

The technical content of this news release regarding Steppe Gold has been reviewed and validated by Enkhtuvshin Khishigsuren, PEng., a "Qualified Person" as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Technical Reports

Additional information with respect to Steppe Gold's Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project, including its AuEq resource base, is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold dated November 6, 2022 and entitled "Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project (ATO) 2022 Mineral Resources & Reserves Report (NI 43-101)". A copy of said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Further information with respect to the Tres Cruces Project is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold, dated August 21, 2023 and entitled "Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Preliminary Economic Assessment". A copy of said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Steppe Gold

Steppe Gold is Mongolia's premier precious metals company and 100% owner of the ATO gold mine and the Uudam Khundii project in Mongolia.

About Boroo Gold

Established in 1997, Boroo Gold is a leading gold producer in Mongolia with over 50,000 tons per day mining fleet, 5,500 tons per day mill and carbon-in-leach circuit gold processing plant, 3,000,000 tons per annum heap leach and carbon-in-columns plant and an approximate workforce of over 400 people. Boroo Gold operates the Boroo mine in Selenge province, as well as owning and operating the adjacent Ulaanbulag mine in Mongolia.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These include statements regarding Steppe Gold's intent, or the beliefs or current expectations of the officers and directors of Steppe Gold, for Steppe Gold's growth, production and valuation post-closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction and Tres Cruces Transaction and future market conditions for metals.

When used in this news release, words such as "anticipated", "expected", "estimated", "future", "forecast", "likely", "opportunity", "ongoing", "potential", "planned", "projected", "proposed", "vision" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements as well as phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "should", "will", or "would" occur or the negative connotation of such terms.

As well, forward-looking statements may relate to Steppe Gold's future outlook and anticipated events, such as the consummation and timing of each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction; the Steppe Board and management team of Steppe Gold following the Boroo Gold Transaction; the satisfaction of the conditions precedent to each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and Tres Cruces Transaction; the anticipated benefits of the Boroo Gold Transaction; the potential for value creation to Steppe Gold's shareholders; the anticipated timing of the closings of the Boroo Gold Transaction and Tres Cruces Transaction; the entering into of the support and voting agreements, Investor Rights Agreement and other ancillary documents in connection with the Boroo Gold Transaction; the filing of the Share Exchange Agreement, the Share Purchase Agreements and the information circular in respect of the Meeting on SEDAR+; the details to be included in the information circular regarding the Meeting in respect of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction; the timing and anticipated receipt of required shareholder, court and regulatory approvals for the Boroo Gold Transaction and, if applicable, for the Tres Cruces Transaction; Boroo's nomination and governance rights under the Investor Rights Agreement; anticipated gold production of Boroo Gold and combined gold production of Steppe Gold; the anticipated cash flow of Steppe Gold; potential liquidity from the sale of the Tres Cruces Project; and discussion of future plans, projections, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including those relating to: required shareholder, regulatory and stock exchange approvals; approvals from applicable Mongolian authorities; exercise of any termination rights under the Share Exchange Agreement or the Share Purchase Agreements; meeting other conditions precedent to each of the Share Exchange Agreement and the Share Purchase Agreements; the time required to prepare and mail the Meeting materials, including the information circular; material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of Steppe Gold or Boroo Gold; discrepancies between actual and estimated production and test results, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; and such other risk factors detailed from time to time in Steppe Gold's public disclosure documents, including, without limitation, those risks identified in Steppe Gold's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca .

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Steppe Gold assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Steppe Gold updates any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact Information

Steppe Gold

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Jeremy South, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Shangri-La office, Suite 1201, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District 1, Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Tel: +976 7732 1914




BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / NOA Lithium Brines Inc. (TSX-V:NOAL)(FSE:N7N) ("NOA" or the "Company") is pleased to report positive lithium results from brine samples from RG23-005, the fifth hole of the Phase 1 diamond drill program at its Rio Grande project ("Rio Grande" or the "Project"). The hole, located at the Juana Azul claim within the salar, completed to a depth of 602 meters ("m"), intersected a high-grade lithium (" Li ") brine aquifer of significant thickness starting from a down-hole depth of only 1 m.

Highlights from the fifth drill hole include:

Near-Surface: Lithium brine-saturated geological units were encountered starting at only 1 meter below surface , indicating the Project's vast potential.

Lithium brine-saturated geological units were encountered starting at , indicating the Project's vast potential. Extensive Brine-Bearing Units: Approximately 530 m of lithium brine-bearing units were identified through 41 packer tests, affirming substantial lithium content within the salar.

Approximately of lithium brine-bearing units were identified through 41 packer tests, affirming substantial lithium content within the salar. Average concentration of 464 mg/l Li in the upper 350 m, while the remainder of the hole averaged a high-grade concentration of 474 mg/l Li; and

Encountered highest-grade concentration of 607 mg/l Li at 203 m.

NOA's Chief Executive Officer Gabriel Rubacha states: "The results of this 5 th hole reaffirm the potential of our Rio Grande project. We are now focused on the next stages where we expect to expand the resource drilling areas not explored yet and start our pumping holes campaign to support the development of the project. We expect to start this second stage during Q2 this year".

Hole RG23-005 was executed with diamond drilling (HQ-size), permitting the extraction of core samples of the salar basin formations and collection of brine samples, where available. Drilling was carried out by Salta-based Hidrotec S.A., under the supervision of NOA's geologists.

Diamond drill hole RG23-005 was completed at a depth of 602 m. At a depth of 1 m, the formations saturated with brine began. The lithology of the well is composed mainly by sand with sulfate intercalations and a lower proportion of crystalline halite, with contents that are variable along the depth of the well. Packer test sampling was carried out and almost the entire depth of the +600 m well returned brine-saturated units (approximately 530 m of the 602 m drilled), except for one horizon ranging 40 m in thickness.

Brine packer samples have been sent for laboratory analyses, including multi-element geochemical analysis for lithium and other relevant elements, and results are expected in the coming weeks. Selected drill core samples were sent to an accredited laboratory for physical property tests, including drainable porosity.

Results for Hole RG23-005

The results of the brine analyses and the respective intervals are shown in Table 1 below and drill collar information is presented in Table 2 below. Hole RG23-005, drilled at the Juana Azul claim (shown in Figure 1 below) reached a depth of 602 m.

Table 1: Interval Data & Li Assays (double packer sampling) For Drillhole DDH-RG23-5

Figure 1: Plan Map Showing Well RG23-005 And Previous Completed Wells

Table 1: RG23-005 - Drill collar information

Hole #: RG23-005 Azimuth: 0 deg. Claim name: Juana Azul Inclination: -90 deg. Coordinates (UTM 19J South): E: 588494 m N: 7233176 m, Z: 3669 m Contractor: Hidrotec S.A. Machine type: HT07 LF-90 Drill type: Diamond Hole diameter: HQ

Bridge Loan Financing

The Company also announces that it has entered into a short-term unsecured loan agreement (the "Agreement") with Mr. Gabriel Rubacha (the "Lender"), the Company's Chief Executive Officer and a Director. Under the Agreement and on or about April 8, 2024 ("Disbursement Date"), the Lender will advance the Company a USD $1 million (the "Loan Amount") term loan (the "Bridge Financing") with repayment terms as disclosed below. The Bridge Financing is expected to be repaid to the Lender in 60-90 days from the date hereof, as the Company is in advanced discussions with strategic investors regarding longer term capital financing for the Company. The Company plans to use the proceeds from the Bridge Financing to pay incurred capital expenditures and for general corporate working capital.

The Bridge Financing will have a maturity date of December 31, 2024 ("Maturity Date") and may be repaid by the Company with interest, if any ("Repayment Amount") in whole or in part with no penalty at any time before the Maturity Date (the "Repayment Date"). The Repayment Amount will be determined by using the value of 142,000 common shares of Lithium Americas Corp. ("LAC"), as traded on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE ) under the symbol "LAC", multiplied by the closing price of the LAC common shares on the NYSE on the Disbursement Date, which equals the Loan Amount; and the exact Repayment Amount to be paid on the Repayment Date will be the aggregate value of the 142,000 LAC common shares multiplied by the closing price of the LAC common shares on the NYSE on the Repayment Date.

The Lender has also agreed to share in any such depreciation that may occur of the LAC common shares between the Disbursement Date and the Repayment Date and for clarity only the same number of LAC common shares as of the Disbursement Date will be required to be repaid by the Company to the Lender on the Repayment Date.

Further and pursuant to the Agreement, beginning on the date that is 150 days from the Disbursement Date and until the Maturity Date, the Repayment Amount may be converted into common shares of the Company at a price per security that is the maximum allowable discount permitted by the TSX Venture Exchange at the time the conversion is made and the accrued interest, if any, becomes payable, and such convertible terms shall comply with the Policies of the TSX Venture Exchange and be subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.

NOA's Executive Director, Hernan Zaballa, states regarding the Bridge Loan: "This financial commitment provided by Mr. Rubacha continues to show the support and confidence of management in the vast potential of the Rio Grande project."

The Bridge Financing obtained from the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Director constitutes a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). This transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the transaction, nor the consideration paid to the lender of the Bridge Financing, who is a related party of the Company, would exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company will file a material change report with respect to the Bridge Financing, however, the material change report will be filed less than 21 days prior to the advancement of proceeds under the Bridge Financing.

The entering into of the Bridge Financing was considered and approved by the disinterested Directors of the Company. The disinterested Directors voted unanimously to approve the Bridge Financing and Mr. Rubacha declared a conflict and abstained from voting on the Bridge Financing. The Bridge Financing remains subject to requisite approvals by the TSX Venture Exchange.

About NOA Lithium Brines Inc.

NOA is a lithium exploration and development company formed to acquire assets with significant resource potential. All NOA's projects are located in the heart of the prolific Lithium Triangle, in the mining-friendly province of Salta, Argentina, near a multitude of projects and operations owned by some of the largest players in the lithium industry. NOA has rapidly consolidated one of the largest lithium brine claim portfolios in this region that is not owned by a producing company, with key positions on three prospective salars, being Rio Grande, Arizaro, Salinas Grandes, and totalling over 140,000 hectares.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

Gabriel Rubacha

Chief Executive Officer and Director

For Further Information On The Company

Website: www.noalithium.com

Email: info@noalithium.com

Telephone: +54-9-11-5060-4709

Alternative Telephone: +1-403-571-8013

Sample Analysis & QA/QC Program

The Company has a robust QA/QC and sample management program. Brine samples were collected by a single / double packer system (in-hole inflatable) to isolate specific intervals down the drillhole. The packer sampling method allows the collection of brine samples at specific depths while sealing the hole at the top and bottom of the interval. The packer system was run several times to flush the hole after drilling to clear / clean the hole prior to sampling and four samples for each interval were collected (main sample, duplicate sample, check sample, reserve sample). The drillhole of the current release was inclined vertically (90 degrees) and the salar strata are believed to be flat-lying resulting in reported intervals approximating true thickness.

Samples of brine were submitted by courier for analysis to Alex Stewart NOA, subsidiary of Alex Stewart International Argentina, member of the Alex Stewart International group, an accredited laboratory for the analysis of lithium and other elements. Alex Stewart employed Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry as the analytical technique for the primary constituents of interest, including: boron, calcium, potassium, lithium, and magnesium. Measurements in the field included pH, conductivity, temperature and density. The quality of sample analytical results was controlled and assessed with a protocol of blank, duplicate and standard samples included within the sample sequence. Differences between original and duplicate samples and results for standards and blanks are considered within the acceptable range for lithium.

Qualified Person

David O'Connor P.Geo., is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects , and he has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. All statements within this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements including, but not limited to NOA's future plans and objectives regarding its projects, which constitute forward looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although NOA 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 described in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements include fluctuations in market prices, including lithium prices, continued availability of capital and financing, Loan Repayment Amounts and timing of such repayment, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. NOA does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under applicable laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: NOA Lithium Brines Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
CHICAGO, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global ammunition market size is projected to grow from USD 28.0 billion in 2023 to USD 33.1 billion in 2028, at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2023 to 2028 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The factors such as the increase in the geopolitical tensions, Growth in military expenditure and arms transfer, change in the nature of warfare, modernization programs undertaken by military forces, militarization of police forces, and rise in drug trafficking globally are driving factors assisting the growth of the ammunition market. Apart from its use in defense forces, ammunition also sees increasing importance in commercial and civil applications such as self-defense, sporting, hunting, among others.

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Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2023 $ 28.0 billion Estimated Value by 2028 $ 33.1 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 3.4% Market Size Available for 2019-2028 Forecast Period 2023-2028 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Application, Caliber, Product, Component, Guidance Mechanism, Lethality and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge International measures to control use of ammunition Key Market Opportunities Stockpiling of ammunition Key Market Drivers Geopolitical tensions and territorial conflicts across globe

Based on caliber, the small caliber segment of the ammunition market is estimated to have the highest market share in 2023.

Based on caliber, the ammunition market has been segmented into small, medium, large, and others. The small caliber segment is estimated to have the highest market share in 2023. The widespread popularity of firearms chambered in small calibers among civilian gun owners, law enforcement agencies, and military forces, ensures a consistent and substantial demand for the small caliber segment of the market.

Propellant segment of the ammunition market is projected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

The ammunition industry has been segmented based on components into fuzes & primers, propellants, bases, projectiles and warheads, and others (guidance and actuation systems). The propellant segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Propellants are poised for significant growth in the artillery shells ammunition market due to technological advancements, evolving military strategies, and the demand for enhanced performance.

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The Asia Pacific region is estimated to contribute the largest share in 2023.

The region of Asia Pacific is anticipated to hold the largest share in 2023, mostly because to the rise in terrorist attacks and cross-border conflicts in the area. New ammunition is being provided to the armed forces of many Asia-Pacific nations as part of military modernization initiatives. A greater demand for ammunition has been caused by several nations' focused ammunition upgrading initiatives, including China and India.

The ammunition companies is dominated by a few key players such as Northrop Grumman Corporation (US), CBC Global Ammunition (Brazil), BAE Systems (UK), Thales Group (France), and General Dynamics Corporation (US), Nammo AS (Norway) among others.

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Artillery Systems Market by Type (Howitzers, Rocket Launchers, Mortars, Anti-air weapons, Artillery), Range (Short-range, Medium-range, Long-range), Subsystem and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, ROW) - Global Forecast to 2028

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London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - April 12, 2024) - Resourcing Tomorrow - Europe's most influential and largest mining event is returning to London on the 3rd - 5th December. This year's focus will be on how the industry is 'breaking out of the echo chamber', underscoring the imperative for miners to lead the global effort in the energy transition, achieve decarbonisation targets, and address the issues in the industry that inhibit progress.

By redefining how it engages with its broader partners, including OEMs, energy companies, and governments, the mining industry can capitalise on its unique positioning to generate solutions, and ultimately move the industry to the next level.

The first Agenda has just been released, at a time when the industry stands on the brink of transformative change: harnessing this opportunity necessitates a departure from conventional wisdom and a comprehensive re-evaluation of the mining industry's positioning.

Key themes of this year's conference include critical minerals supply & production; sustainability and ESG metrics; capitalising on the growing influence of EVs, OEMs, and Energy Companies; applications of digitalisation and AI; and data, automation & robotics and cyber security.

"Resourcing Tomorrow heralds the dawn of a new era in mining, returning to London this December. This year's spotlight on breaking the echo chamber urges miners to lead the charge in the global energy transition. From decarbonization to industry hurdles, it's time for bold action and collaboration. By forging new partnerships with OEMs, energy giants, and governments, the mining sector can spearhead innovative solutions. As we unveil our agenda amidst transformative times, we invite industry leaders to redefine mining's narrative and embrace the future," said Nick Rastall, Portfolio Director of Resourcing Tomorrow and Mines and Money

Resourcing Tomorrow brings together 2,000 professionals from across the globe, including investors and key players in the mining, resources, and energy sectors, OEMs, technology companies, law firms, governmental bodies, and more.

This year's conference will be structured around the guidance of an exceptional Advisory Board, featuring industry leaders from renowned organisations such as Anglo, BHP, and Kenmare. This collection of expertise ensures the event addresses pressing industry challenges effectively.

The 2024 event will continue the highly acclaimed features, including:

Resourcing Tomorrow's Government Roundtable, uniting more than 20 Ministers alongside industry executives to discuss critical minerals and shape policy frameworks.

The Next Generation Leaders Programme, designed to open the world of mining to the next generation.

The Mining Spotlight and Mining Pitch battles, providing timely insights and updates from a selection of exploration and development companies.

The Gala Dinner and Awards, showcasing excellence in the industry. This event serves as the perfect end to a week of networking opportunities and insight, and as the ideal venue to entertain your clients and connect with the industry's most influential individuals.

This year, to further complement the pillars of the Resourcing Tomorrow event, the 2024 conference will host:

Global Opportunities sessions: in collaboration with government partners, these sessions showcase trade and investment opportunities.

Project Development sessions: these will explore financing sources, examine successful case studies, and ultimately equip miners and investors alike with methodologies to identify and mitigate project risks.

Roundtables: these promise to provide expert insights and lively discussions on pressing topics to gain fresh perspectives and valuable information.

Breakfast Briefings: starting each day strong, with investigations into Green Steel, Scope 3 Emissions Reporting, and New Thinking in Battery and EV Supply Chains to discover actionable insights to propel your business forward.

Join us at Resourcing Tomorrow in London on the 3rd - 5th of December to ignite innovation, foster collaboration, and drive industry progression. For more information and registration, visit resourcingtomorrow.com.

Media Enquiries

Jessica Mockler

Senior Marketing Manager

Beacon Events

connect@resourcingtomorrow.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205240

SOURCE: Mines and Money
Whiptail development receives government approval; production targeted to begin in 2027

Sixth Stabroek Block development will add gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day

On track to deliver gross production capacity on the block of approximately 1.3 million barrels of oil per day by end of 2027

Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) today announced it has made a final investment decision to proceed with Whiptail, the sixth development on the Stabroek Block, after receiving government and regulatory approvals. Whiptail is expected to add gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day by the end of 2027.

The $12.7 billion Whiptail development will target an estimated resource base of more than 850 million barrels of oil and include up to 10 drill centers and 48 production and injection wells. The floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel for Whiptail, which will be called Jaguar, is under construction.

"We are excited to sanction Whiptail, our sixth oil development on the Stabroek Block, and remain on track to have six FPSOs online by the end of 2027 with a total gross production capacity of approximately 1.3 million barrels of oil per day," CEO John Hess said. "We are proud to work with the Government of Guyana to realize the remarkable potential of this world class resource for the benefit of all stakeholders. The world will need these vital oil resources to meet future energy demand and help ensure an affordable, just and secure energy transition."

Three developments on the Stabroek Block -- Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2 and Payara -- are currently producing more than 640,000 gross barrels of oil per day. The fourth and fifth developments, Yellowtail and Uaru, are in progress with production startup targeted for 2025 and 2026 respectively. Each will have a gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres. ExxonMobil Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest.

Hess Corporation is a leading global independent energy company engaged in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. More information on Hess Corporation is available at www.hess.com.

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "guidance," "could," "may," "should," "would," "believe," "intend," "project," "plan," "predict," "will," "target" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which are not historical in nature. Our forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, the expected number, timing and completion of our development projects and estimates of capital and operating costs for these projects; estimates of our crude oil and natural gas resources and levels of production; and our future financial and operational results. Forward-looking statements are based on our current understanding, assessments, estimates and projections of relevant factors and reasonable assumptions about the future. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our current projections or expectations of future results expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The following important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements: fluctuations in market prices or demand for crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas, including due to competing or alternative energy products and political conditions and events; potential failures or delays in increasing oil and gas reserves, including as a result of unsuccessful exploration activity, drilling risks and unforeseen reservoir conditions, and in achieving expected production levels; changes in laws, regulations and governmental actions applicable to our business, including legislative and regulatory initiatives regarding environmental concerns; the ability of our contractual counterparties to satisfy their obligations to us, including the operation of joint ventures which we may not control; unexpected changes in technical requirements for constructing, modifying or operating exploration and production facilities and/or the inability to timely obtain or maintain necessary permits; potential disruption or interruption of our operations due to catastrophic and other events, including climate change; risks and uncertainties associated with our proposed merger with Chevron Corporation; and other factors described in Item 1A-Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and any additional risks described in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As and when made, we believe that our forward-looking statements are reasonable. However, given these risks and uncertainties, caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements since such statements speak only as of the date when made and there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will occur and actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement we make. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

We use certain terms in this release relating to resources other than proved reserves, such as unproved reserves or resources. Investors are urged to consider closely the oil and gas disclosures in Hess Corporation's Form 10-K, File No. 1-1204, available from Hess Corporation, 1185 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10036 c/o Corporate Secretary and on our website at www.hess.com. You can also obtain this form from the SEC on the EDGAR system.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240411200646/en/

Contacts:

Investors:

Jay Wilson

(212) 536-8940

jrwilson@hess.com

Media:

Lorrie Hecker

(212) 536-8250

lhecker@hess.com
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Metallic Minerals Corp. (TSXV:MMG)(OTCQB:MMNGF) ("Metallic Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to report that, further to its news release dated February 26, 2024, it has filed on SEDAR a National Instrument 43-101 technical report entitled "Mineral Resource Estimate for the Keno Silver Project, Yukon, Canada", with an effective date of February 1, 2024.

Scott Petsel, President of Metallic Minerals, stated, "The inaugural resource, which defined 18.16 million ounces of silver equivalent (inferred) at the Keno Silver project is a major milestone for the project. The 171 km2 Keno Silver Project, neighboring Hecla Mining's current Keno Hill operations, has very clear opportunities to grow the 2024 Resource Estimate quickly and efficiently with additional drilling, while continuing to advance early-stage targets to new discoveries. The project team is currently working to finalize the next phases of exploration to include additional resource expansion drilling in 2024. Additionally, we anticipate reporting results from our 2023 drill campaign at our La Plata project and providing an update on our alluvial royalty projects over the next few weeks."

The Technical Report was authored by Allan Armitage, Ph.D., P.Geo. of SGS Geologic Services ("SGS") an independent Qualified Person and was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The report is available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com and will also be available on the Company's website at www.mmgsilver.com.

About SGS Geological Services

SGS Geological Services has an experienced and respected mining team focused on the domestic and international mining industry. The team has considerable experience in estimation and modeling of deposits of all types and practical and theoretical experience having carried out hundreds of assessments for clients. The SGS team consists of a multi-disciplinary group of qualified persons with a strong understanding of the disclosure requirements for Mineral Resources set out in the NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (2016), CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (2014) and a strong understanding of the CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources & Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines 2019.

About Metallic Minerals

Metallic Minerals Corp. is a Canadian exploration and development stage company, focused on copper, silver, gold, and platinum group elements 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 expanded 2023 NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate highlights a significant porphyry copper-silver resource containing 1.2 Blbs copper and 17.6 Moz of silver with numerous additional targets showing potential for a district scale porphyry corridor. Drill results announced in early 2023 included 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 (acquired by Newmont Corporation in November 2023) to accelerate the advancement of the La Plata project. A 4,500-meter drill program focused on expanding the current mineral resource and testing extensions of strong porphyry-style mineralization was completed in December 2023 with results pending. 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 operations, with more than 300 Moz of high-grade silver in past production and current M&I resources. The new 2024 Resource Estimate at the Company's Keno Silver Project adds 18.16 Moz silver equivalent to the Company's total resources. Hecla, the largest primary silver producer in the USA and soon to be Canada's largest with full production at its Keno Hill operations in 2024.

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.

All of the districts in which Metallic Minerals operates have seen significant mineral production and have existing infrastructure, including power and road access. Metallic Minerals 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.mmgsilver.com

Email: cackerman@mmgsilver.com

Phone: 604-629-7800

Toll Free: 1-888-570-4420

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 the original press release on accesswire.com
Orange Bank & Trust Company, the economic engine of New York's Hudson Valley for more than 132 years, was recently recognized as one of the "2024 Best Companies to Work for in New York," alongside some of the biggest names in the state's finance, real estate, health care, technology, and nonprofit sectors.

The distinction reflects an esteemed workplace culture that is stronger than ever as the Bank continues to grow. With approximately $2.5 billion in assets, the Bank has more than 220 employees spanning 17 offices across Orange, Westchester, Rockland and Bronx counties, including a brand-new branch location in Yonkers, the state's third-largest city.

"We are truly honored to be recognized as a 2024 Best Company to Work for in New York," said Michael Gilfeather, Orange Bank & Trust Company President and CEO. "Our employees' deep industry knowledge and unwavering commitment to client service has always been one of our top market differentiators, and we're highly invested in our people."

"Our employees are some of the brightest bankers in the industry, and our company culture focuses on developing talent, empowering team members and supporting lifelong careers," said Jacob Rahiman, Orange Bank & Trust Company's Chief Human Resources Officer. "We bank on our team: our success depends on being well-trained, inspired and trusted advisors to clients, and we are dedicated to giving our employees the key skills to support the businesses and communities we serve."

Led by The New York State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management, Best Companies Group and Rochester Business Journal, the 2024 Best Companies to Work for in New York is a research-driven program that examines a company's practices, benefits and employee perspectives.

"I chose to work for Orange Bank & Trust Company 36 years ago because it was a small, community bank that valued employee development," said Carla Alfieri, 1st Vice President and Senior Private Banker. "Starting out as a teller, I was supported by an amazing team, and I instantly loved working with clients. I continuously progressed both professionally and personally, and although I never expected this to be a lifelong career, I am happy it is!"

The best places of employment in New York are identified in three categories: small companies (15-99 employees), medium companies (100-249 employees) and large companies (250 or more employees). There were two parts used to determine the rankings. The first consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices and demographics, worth approximately 25 percent of the total evaluation. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience, which consisted of 75 percent of the total. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final rankings.

The Bank will be honored alongside other winners of the 2024 Best Companies to Work for in New York at a celebration in Albany on April 18. A full list of this year's winners can be found here.

About Orange Bank & Trust Company

Orange Bank & Trust Company is the Hudson Valley's premier financial institution focusing on commercial lending, business banking, and wealth management services. For more than 132 years, Orange Bank & Trust Company has been an economic engine of the community, with approximately $2.5 billion in assets and playing a vital role in increasing opportunities for local businesses, facilitating region-defining developments, and maximizing investments to neighborhood-serving non-profits.

Contact:

Candice Varetoni

AVP Marketing Officer

Orange Bank & Trust Company

cvaretoni@orangebanktrust.com

845-341-5043

SOURCE: Orange County Bancorp, Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 12, 2024) - Sona Nanotech Inc. (CSE: SONA) (OTCQB: SNANF) (the "Company" or "Sona") is pleased to announce further positive interim results from its study with The Giacomantonio Immuno-Oncology Research Group at Dalhousie University (the "Study"). The Company was provided with data from the Study that indicates the response in a pre-clinical triple negative breast cancer model treated with the combination of Sona's targeted hyperthermia therapy ("THT") and interleukin-2 ("IL-2"), a standard immunotherapy, is statistically significantly superior to results observed from treatment with either agent individually or the control group. This second phase of the Study has documented that, in a cohort of six animals, 6/6 of treated triple negative breast cancer, the most aggressive and therapy resistant form, mouse tumors bearing gold nanorods and IL-2 responded to the combination therapy, resulting in a flattening of the tumor growth curves, as shown in the below graph. The generation of hyperthermia involved exposing tumors previously injected intratumorally with Sona's gold nanorods and IL-2 to a single dose of near infrared light.

Study Principal Investigator and Sona Advisory Board member, Dr. Carman Giacomantonio, comments, "To date, this study demonstrates that Sona's THT therapy shrinks tumors, but early data also suggests that it may increase the efficacy of established therapies based on the synergistic effect it had when combined with IL-2, with results that went well beyond our expectations. Also, as with our first phase of study, in all cases in this second phase we observed tumor shrinkage in distant, untreated tumors consistent with an abscopal response, supporting the hypothesis that THT promotes a systemic immunogenic response which we will continue to study.

In these encouraging initial results, Sona's THT therapy appears to cause cancer cell death in this pre-clinical mouse model, changing the tumor microenvironment and initiating novel, and more effective, tumor-specific immunity."

Sona CEO, David Regan, commented, "We are very encouraged by the evidence indicating that Sona's THT therapy significantly enhances the efficacy of a standard immuno-oncology agent in this mouse model. We look forward to continuing the pre-clinical work necessary to move this into human trials. While current standards of care involving immune therapy can achieve extraordinary results in treating cancer, they work in fewer than half of patients. Sona aims to help these immuno-oncology drugs to work better, enabling them to improve response rates with a view to ultimately increasing survivability for those suffering from cancer."

The Study's next step is to assess the therapy's ability to generate similar results in melanoma and colorectal cancer mouse models and determine the extent to which it serves as an immune modulator for distant, untreated tumors in these cancers. Next, regulatory permission to conduct human trials requires certain satisfactory pre-clinical safety and biocompatibility studies, amongst other potential work. The Company has received guidance on its pre-clinical study plan from both the Food and Drug Administration and its EXCITE International (see press release dated September 5, 2023) panel of senior physicians and payor organization representatives in the United States.

The results discussed in this release are preliminary and have not been subject to peer review. Upon completion, the Company expects that the full Study will be submitted for peer review and scientific journal publication.

Dalhousie Study Interim Results - Tumor Growth in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Mouse Model (N = 6)

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5500/205242_b303a8e754ed0853_001full.jpg

Contact:

David Regan, CEO

+1-902-536-1932

david@sonanano.com

About Sona Nanotech Inc.

Sona Nanotech, a nanotechnology life sciences company, is developing Targeted Hyperthermia, a photothermal cancer therapy, which uses therapeutic heat to treat solid cancer tumors. The heat is delivered to tumors by infrared light that is absorbed by Sona's gold nanorods in the tumor and re-emitted as heat. Therapeutic heat (41-48C) stimulates the immune system, shrinks tumors, inactivates cancer stem cells, and increases tumor perfusion - thus enabling drugs to reach all tumor compartments more effectively. The size, shape, and surface chemistry of the nanorods target the leaky vasculature of solid tumors, and the selective thermal sensitivity of tumor tissue enables the therapy to deliver clean margins. Targeted Hyperthermia promises to be safe, effective, minimally invasive, competitive in cost, and a valuable adjunct to drug therapy and other cancer treatments.

Sona has developed multiple proprietary methods for the manufacture of gold nanoparticles which it uses for the development of both cancer therapies and diagnostic testing platforms. Sona Nanotech's gold nanorod particles are cetyltrimethylammonium ("CTAB") free, eliminating the toxicity risks associated with the use of other gold nanorod technologies in medical applications. It is expected that Sona's gold nanotechnologies may be adapted for use in applications, as a safe and effective delivery system for multiple medical treatments, subject to the approval of various regulatory boards, including Health Canada and the FDA.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This press release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the anticipated applications of Targeted Hyperthermia Therapy, the Dalhousie study, future publication of study results, Sona's preclinical study plans, the potential impact of the planned studies and its product development plans. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions or estimates that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the risk that Sona may not be able to successfully obtain sufficient clinical and other data to submit regulatory submissions, raise sufficient additional capital, secure patents or develop the envisioned therapy, and the risk that THT may not prove to have the benefits currently anticipated. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Sona disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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/205242

SOURCE: Sona Nanotech Inc.
Suppliers to Support AP1000 Deployment at Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant and Globally

Westinghouse Electric Company today signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with 17 significant Bulgarian suppliers to support the upcoming AP1000 nuclear projects at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant site in northern Bulgaria, and other projects throughout the region. This milestone is a result of ongoing engagement with local suppliers following the Westinghouse Supplier Symposium held in February 2024 with Bulgarian companies.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240412359692/en/

Westinghouse signs MOU with 17 Bulgarian Suppliers (Photo: Business Wire)

The signed MOUs outline the potential for manufacturing of key components, including large structural modules, cranes, heat exchangers and pressure vessels, as well as providing various engineering, transportation, consulting and construction services. The suppliers are Atomenergoremont JSC; Bulmachinery Enterprises Ltd.; Bureau Veritas Bulgaria; Centralna Energoremontna Baza EAD; ELIA AD; Energoremont-Galabovo AD; Himmash JSC; Industrial Parts Ltd.; KMC JSC; Kranostroene Engineering LTD; MTG-Dolphin PLC; PODEMCRANE AD; Tia Logistics LTD; TM INOX Ltd.; Biomashinostroene AD; Bularmex-IK JSCo; and Micromet AD.

"Ensuring high localization of work on the AP1000 project at Kozloduy remains a crucial objective," said Petyo Ivanov, Executive Director of Kozloduy NPP New Built Company. "We celebrate today's announcement and these impressive local suppliers, whose partnerships represent another step toward bringing additional advanced, nuclear technology online in Bulgaria and emphasize the economic impact that the project will have for our country and its people. We expect these Bulgarian companies to become a vital part of the Westinghouse worldwide supply chain, more specifically for all their European new built projects."

"Westinghouse has a robust supply chain network across the world, and we are pleased to further expand that with additional, experienced and local Bulgarian suppliers to support the successful delivery of two AP1000 reactors at the Kozloduy site," said David Durham, President of Westinghouse Energy Systems. "Growth of our local and qualified supplier network in addition to the critical progress we are making on our front-end engineering and design contract for this project are important steps that help us to pave the way to bring a clean energy future to Bulgaria for generations to come."

Westinghouse was awarded a front-end engineering and design contract with Kozloduy NPP-Newbuild project for its AP1000 technology in June 2023. In October 2023, Westinghouse signed MOUs with five other Bulgarian suppliers for Kozloduy and other European projects, including for the manufacture of instrumentation and controls (I&C) systems, radiation monitoring systems and various services.

The AP1000 reactor is the only operating Generation III+ reactor with fully passive safety systems, modular construction design and the smallest footprint per MWe on the market. In the U.S., at the Vogtle site in Georgia, one AP1000 unit is in commercial operation while a second unit is projected to come online during the second quarter of 2024. Four AP1000 reactors are currently setting operational performance and availability records in China with eight additional reactors under construction. It has been selected for the nuclear energy programs in Poland, Ukraine and Bulgaria, and is also under consideration at multiple other sites in Central and Eastern Europe, the UK, India and North America.

Westinghouse Electric Company is shaping the future of carbon-free energy by providing safe, innovative nuclear and other clean power technologies and services globally. Westinghouse supplied the world's first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957 and the company's technology is the basis for nearly one-half of the world's operating nuclear plants. Over 135 years of innovation makes Westinghouse the preferred partner for advanced technologies covering the complete nuclear energy life cycle. For more information, visit www.westinghousenuclear.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and X.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240412359692/en/

Contacts:

media@westinghouse.com
Dan Horner joins Global Airlines from KPMG, where he supported airline clients on post pandemic financial challenges.

Horner will play a key role in growing Global Airlines finance and corporate reporting functions.

LONDON, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Airlines today announced its latest full-time hire, with Dan Horner joining from KPMG, to head up its finance function.

Whilst at KPMG, Dan garnered significant aviation experience, specifically on projects for British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, as well as other leading international airlines, including Qantas.

Dan has a detailed understanding of airline operations, financial and corporate reporting, and commercial finance.

He joins Global as it continues to work with Airbus to confirm arrangements and approvals to fly its first fully acquired aircraft to a European facility in the coming weeks. It will then undergo further refurbishment and continue its overhaul work before entering service.

Dan will report to CEO James Asquith, and will work closely with the senior management team, in particular across commercial, investor relations and business planning.

Commenting on the appointment, James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said, "Thanks to his time at KPMG, Dan not only joins Global with significant industry experience, but he's also passionate about aviation and he, like all our colleagues and partners, sees the opportunity for Global to flourish.

"The finance function is the foundation of any successful organisation, and I am confident that Dan will play a key role in embedding rock-solid business principles into the organisation that will provide confidence to investors, regulators, partners as well as help attract more talent as we grow the function."

Dan Horner, Global's new Head of Finance added "This is an exciting opportunity to join the Global team, working with market leading aviation experts to meet the goals and vision of the business.

"I look forward to building a strong finance function with like-minded finance professionals who have an interest in the aviation industry.'

Dan is also a fully qualified chartered accountant and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-airlines-appoints-new-head-of-finance-from-kpmg-302115392.html
New supplier engagement program to record and reduce Scope 3 emissions from suppliers worldwide

Support for partners through transparent data collection, trainings and targeted actions for decarbonization

Important step for Henkel's ambition of a net-zero pathway

DUSSELDORF, GERMANY / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / In order to bring the evaluation of its CO2 emissions in the upstream supply chain to the next level, Henkel has launched a comprehensive engagement program for its worldwide suppliers called "Climate Connect". The program aims to advance decarbonization along the value chain through the collection of emissions data, jointly defined actions for reduction and continuous upskilling.

Henkel will cooperate with "Manufacture 2030", a partner in the field of carbon reduction, to address its raw material and packaging suppliers as well as contract manufacturers and suppliers of traded goods worldwide, where a total of more than 90 percent of Henkel's Scope 3 upstream emissions occur. The program, which will record key figures on energy, water consumption and waste volumes, shall be rolled out and adapted gradually to an increasing number of suppliers in the different scope 3 categories in the future. With the help of the data generated as well as corresponding trainings, Henkel and "Manufacture 2030" will offer participating suppliers individual support in assessing their baseline and setting measures for climate actions.

"Compared to large companies, our small- and medium-sized partners often find it difficult to record their CO2 emissions as they lack the capacity to do so. Yet this data is hugely relevant, as it is the only way to define targets and measures to reduce these emissions. For us at Henkel, this in return is the basis for reducing our Scope 3 emissions and achieving our climate protection targets," said Bertrand Conqueret, Chief Procurement Officer at Henkel. "The 'Climate Connect' program is therefore designed as a long-term partner project with which we want to support our suppliers directly and as individually as possible."

In addition to trainings, the program offers suppliers to regularly track their progress in environmental key figures and to make data that is generated in "Manufacture 2030" visible for other customers as well. Suppliers can also export relevant data for the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), a global disclosure system to manage environmental data, which many companies have joined. The data overview can also serve them to gain access to business partners and green finance opportunities.

Through the "Together for Sustainability (TfS)" initiative, which Henkel co-founded in 2011 together with other partners in the chemical industry, the company is already working closely with other members on the collection of Product Carbon Footprint data from strategic suppliers. With the new "Climate Connect" program, this approach is now to be extended to an even larger supplier base with various maturity levels.

Reducing emissions along the value chain

Henkel is pursuing clear goals to reduce its carbon footprint in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. The company has set targets for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, which include reducing emissions by 67 percent by 2030 (base year: 2017). Henkel will also develop a net-zero pathway for its Scope 3 emissions along the value chain, in line with the "Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)" standard. This implies emissions caused by raw materials and packaging, which currently account for around a quarter of the emissions in Henkel's value chain. By 2030, Henkel aims to reduce its CO2 emissions from raw materials and packaging by 30 percent.

The new program supports Henkel's suppliers to take action on decarbonization.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Henkel on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Henkel

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/henkel

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Henkel

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 12, 2024) - Aion Therapeutic Inc. (CSE: AION) ("Aion Therapeutic" or the "Company") and its water filtration subsidiary, Toppen Health, Inc. ("Toppen" or "Toppen Health"), are excited to share that on April 10, 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration in the United States has issued a groundbreaking and first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances ("PFAS"), also known as "forever chemicals."

According to the April 10 release, the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") is also announcing nearly $1 billion in funding to help states and territories implement PFAS testing and treatment at public water systems and to help owners of private wells address PFAS contamination.

Toppen Health, a recent Aion acquisition, is a pioneering force in the field of water filtration. Its flagship product, the UltraSafe series with its proprietary MicronGuard, is a three-stage water filtration system designed and independently certified to eliminate 99.99% of the forever chemicals-along with an extensive range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, cysts, spores, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and heavy metals-in our drinking water, while also retaining the necessary nutrients and minerals that make it healthy as well as safe.

"These legally enforceable water standards reinforce the need and viability of Toppen Health's proprietary water filtration technology and systems," said Graham Simmonds, CEO of Aion Therapeutic. "With large-scale municipal applications, to in-home, and even personal water filtration solutions, Toppen Health is one of few companies with filtration technology tested and certified to remove PFAS, while not removing all the minerals that make drinking water healthy."

The newly available funding is "part of a $9 billion investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help communities with drinking water impacted by PFAS and other emerging contaminants - the largest-ever investment in tackling PFAS pollution. An additional $12 billion is available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for general drinking water improvements, including addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS," the release reads.

Also according to the release, the new standards and safety levels announced will be achievable using a range of available technologies and approaches including granular activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange systems. "While tech like reverse osmosis ("RO") can be very effective at removing PFAS, RO systems put PFAS back into the environment via discharge water, ultimately recirculating the PFAS back into the environment," says Owen Boyd, CEO of Toppen Health. "Toppen's water filtration technology neutralizes and blocks all contaminants, but retains them, and prevents redistribution back into the environment via wastewater or other means."

The EPA estimates that "between about 6% and 10% of the 66,000 public drinking water systems subject to this rule may have to take action to reduce PFAS to meet these new standards. All public water systems have three years to complete their initial monitoring for these chemicals. They must inform the public of the level of PFAS measured in their drinking water. Where PFAS is found at levels that exceed these standards, systems must implement solutions to reduce PFAS in their drinking water within five years."

About Toppen Health Inc.

Toppen, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aion Therapeutic, is a US-based innovative health and wellness company, dedicated to delivering state-of-the-art water filtration solutions. With a focus on innovation, affordability, and sustainability, Toppen's water filtration solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of consumers, businesses, and industries around the world access clean and safe water.

About Aion Therapeutic Inc.

Aion Therapeutic is a forward-thinking business within the health and wellness sector with a diverse portfolio of intellectual property. With a commitment to innovation and transformative solutions, the Company is poised to drive positive change to redefine the boundaries of health and wellness.

For further information, please contact:

Aion Therapeutic Inc.

Graham Simmonds

Executive Vice Chair & CEO

(416) 843-2881

DISCLAIMER & READER ADVISORY

This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Expressions such as "anticipates", "expects", "believes", "estimates", "could", "intends", "may", "plans", "predicts", "projects", "will", "would" and other similar expressions, or the negative of these terms, are generally indicative of forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements in this press release include statements regarding: Toppen's business; Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

In addition, the forward- looking information contained in this release is based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as it is inherently uncertain, and no assurance can be given that the expectations reflected in such information will prove to be correct. The forward-looking information in this release is made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205266

SOURCE: Aion Therapeutic Inc.
As the celebration of Women's History Month comes to a close, we are thrilled to announce our support for a new initiative from the Vital Voices Global Partnership designed to support women social entrepreneurs interested in scaling their impact.

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / The Vital Voices Global Fellowship will bring together women leaders from across sectors to build skills and capacity, foster a collaborative network, and exchange ideas. In addition to learning successful leadership practices both from experts and each other, in its inaugural year, Vital Voices is offering programming across two pillars - social entrepreneurship and political leadership. Fellows will engage in focused learning on sector-specific skills and knowledge and with changemakers relevant to their industries. Through the fellowship, Vital Voices also aims to create opportunities for cross-issue collaboration and harness the collective creative potential of women leaders working on critical challenges disproportionately affecting women and girls.

FedEx is proud to be a platinum sponsor of the Vital Voices Global Fellowship - Social Entrepreneurship Pillar, which empowers visionary women changemakers leading for-profit, purpose-driven enterprises that are addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Social Entrepreneurship pillar is tailored for women entrepreneurs who understand their business valuation, have identified their business growth strategy, are interested in expanding their social impact, and are eager to scale their business through investment.

During the fellowship, participants will have the opportunity to attend a weeklong in-person networking, mentorship, and training session at Vital Voices Global Headquarters for Women's Leadership in Washington, D.C. After the gathering, social entrepreneurship fellows will delve into a tailored curriculum addressing crucial aspects of professional growth, including strategic planning, investment readiness, and effective communication strategies.

The 2024 Vital Voices Global Fellowship - Social Entrepreneurship application is currently open and will be accepting applications until April 15, 2024.

For more details, women entrepreneurs are invited to visit the program webpage and online application. Early applications are strongly encouraged. Vital Voices has include a list of Frequently Asked Questions as well.

About the FedEx and Vital Voices Global Partnership Collaboration:

Vital Voices Global Partnership invests in women leaders solving the world's greatest challenges. Since 2016, FedEx has supported the Vital Voices (VV) GROW Fellowship, a 10-month virtual program that fosters growth and skills advancement in strategic planning, financial management, marketing and sales, strategic networking, leadership, human resources, and communications to support purpose-driven women entrepreneurs globally in creating a holistic, sustainable foundation for which their vision and impact can grow. The 2023 Vital Voices GROW Fellowship had 92 fellows from 40 countries. Their social entrepreneurship work spanned over 15 industries and touched upon all 17 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from FedEx Corporation on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: FedEx Corporation

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/fedex-corporation

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: FedEx Corporation

View the original press release on accesswire.com
WILMINGTON, Del., April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Paper Pallet Market by Type (Corrugated Pallets, Cardboard Pallets, Honeycomb Pallets), Load Capacity (Up to 1 ton, 1-2 tons, Above 2 tons), and End User (Shipping and Logistics, Food and Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care and Cosmetics): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global paper pallet market size was valued at $0.9 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach $1.3 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2032.

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Prime determinants of growth

One of the major drivers in the paper pallet market is increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, driven by environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness and lightweight nature of paper pallets contribute to their attractiveness, reducing transportation costs and enhancing efficiency. Furthermore, the recyclability and versatility of paper pallets cater to diverse industry needs, further fueling their adoption. As businesses across various sectors prioritize sustainability and seek eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pallets, the demand for paper pallets continues to surge. With ongoing innovation and advancements in manufacturing processes, the paper pallet market is composed for sustained growth by offering opportunities for manufacturers to capitalize on the evolving landscape of packaging solutions.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size In 2022 $0.9 Billion Market Size In 2032 $1.3 Billion CAGR 4.2 % No. Of Pages In Report 280 Segments Covered Type, Load Capacity, End User, And Region. Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, And Middle East & Africa Country Scope U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, And UAE. Drivers Reduced Transportation Costs Increasing Demand For Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions Supply Chain Efficiency Opportunities Growing E-Commerce Sector Advancements In Material Technology Rising Demand For Sustainable Practices Restraints Limited Load Capacity Durability Concerns Limited Reusability

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The corrugated pallets segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

By type, the corrugated pallets segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-fifths of the paper pallet market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. Corrugated pallets offer a unique combination of strength, durability, and lightweight design, making them ideal for a wide range of applications across various industries. Their ability to withstand heavy loads while remaining lightweight contributes to cost savings in transportation and handling. Corrugated pallets are highly customizable, allowing for tailored designs to meet specific industry requirements.

The up to 1 ton segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

By load capacity, the "Up to 1 ton" segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global paper pallet market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. Its versatility serves a wide array of industries such as retail, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and automotive which ensures widespread demand. Paper pallets within this weight range provide a balanced blend of strength and lightweight construction which makes them suitable for diverse shipping needs.

The shipping & logistics segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

By end user, the shipping & logistics segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global paper pallet market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. Paper pallets fulfill the need by offering a balance between strength and lightweight design, optimizing transportation costs and efficiency. In addition, the shipping and logistics industry is increasing emphasis on sustainability which aligns perfectly with the eco-friendly nature of paper pallets and further boosts their adoption.

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to dominate the market with the largest share during the forecast period. Rapid economic growth and expanding e-commerce sector in the region contribute to increased shipping and logistics activities, further fueling demand for lightweight yet durable pallet solutions. Moreover, government initiatives promoting sustainable practices and regulations favoring eco-friendly packaging solutions in countries like China and Japan provide a conducive environment for the growth of the paper pallet market.

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Leading Market Players:

Conitex Sonoco

DS Smith Plc

Kimmo (Pty) Ltd.

Kraft Pal Technologies Ltd.

Interpak Industries Pte. Ltd.

Oji Holdings Corporation

Mondi Group

The Alternative Pallet Company Ltd.

The Corrugated Pallet Company

Smurfit Kappa Group

The report analyzes government regulations, policies, and patents to provide information on the current market trends and suggests future growth opportunities globally. Furthermore, the study highlights Porter's five forces analysis to determine the factors affecting market growth

Similar Reports We Have on Consumer Goods Industry:

Corrugated Pallets Market Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2019-2026

ISO Standard Paper Pallets Market Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

High Density Polyethylene Pallet Market Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Nestable Plastic Pallets Market Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

ISO Standard Paper Pallets Market Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Molded Wood Pallet Market Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2033





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The wireless connectivity market share is expected to witness considerable growth in coming years, owing to the proliferation of smartphones, tablets, wearable devices, IoT gadgets, and smart home.

WILMINGTON, Del., April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Wireless Connectivity Market by Technology (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, Cellular, Others) and Application (Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Aerospace and Defense, Healthcare, IT and Telecom, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the "wireless connectivity market" was valued at $80.4 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $294 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.89% from 2023 to 2032.

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128 - Tables

51 - Charts

250 - Pages

Prime Determinants of Growth

The wireless connectivity market is expected to witness notable growth owing to the rising popularity of smartphones, tablets, wearables, smart home devices, and IoT solutions. Moreover, the widespread adoption of 5G technology is expected to provide lucrative opportunities for the growth of the market during the forecast period. On the contrary, security remains a significant concern in wireless connectivity, particularly with the increasing number of connected devices and the potential vulnerabilities they introduce. Security breaches, data leaks, and unauthorized access presents integration challenges and limits the growth of the wireless connectivity market.

Report Coverage & Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size In 2022 $80.4 Billion Market Size In 2032 $294 Billion CAGR 13.89 % No. Of Pages in Report 250 Segments Covered Technology, Application, And Region Drivers Increasing Adoption of Smart Devices Increasing Global Internet Penetration Rate Demand For High-Speed and Reliable Connectivity Opportunities The Expansion of IoT Applications Across Various Industries Restraints Interference And Spectrum Constraints

The Wi-Fi segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on technology, the Wi-fi segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one-fourth of the global wireless connectivity market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period due its ubiquitous adoption, offering high-speed internet access for various devices. Its dominance stems from widespread use in homes, businesses, and public spaces, driving demand for Wi-Fi-enabled products and infrastructure.

The Consumer Electronic segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on application, the consumer electronics segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than one-fourth of the global wireless connectivity market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Consumer electronics held the highest market share in the wireless connectivity market due to the widespread integration of wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and wearables. The surge in demand for connected devices, coupled with advancements in wireless connectivity, propelled consumer electronics to dominate the market, driving innovation and expanding the ecosystem of wireless-enabled products.

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Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly one-third of the global wireless connectivity industry revenue owing to rapid technological adoption, urbanization, and the expanding consumer electronics market. With increasing demand for smartphones, IoT devices, and smart home solutions, the region witnessed substantial growth in wireless connectivity. Moreover, initiatives to improve digital infrastructure and connectivity further bolstered Asia-Pacific's position as a leading market for wireless technologies.

Key Industry Development -

In April 2022, Intel acquired a private 5G network provider Ananki, a startup created by the non-profit Open Networking Foundation (ONF) to focus on the commercialization of private 5G services based on open-source network technologies.

In February 2022, Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Qualcomm Technologies announced a collaboration to deliver the next-generation 5G virtualized distributed unit solutions. The companies collaborated to deliver industry's first fully optimized VDU solution with up to 60% lower total cost of ownership for Operators.

Leading Market Players: -

Qualcomm Incorporated

Broadcom Inc.

Intel Corporation

MediaTek Inc.

Texas Instruments Incorporated

Infineon Technologies AG

NXP Semiconductors N.V.

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

Microchip Technology Inc.

STMicroelectronics N.V.

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This study comprises an analytical depiction of the market size along with the current trends and future estimations to depict the imminent investment pockets.

The overall market analysis is determined to understand the profitable trends to gain a stronger foothold.

The report presents information related to key drivers, restraints, and opportunities with a detailed impact analysis.

The current global wireless connectivity market forecast is quantitatively analyzed from 2022 to 2032 to benchmark financial competency.

Porter's five forces analysis illustrates the potency of the buyers and suppliers in wireless connectivity.

The report includes the market share of key vendors and wireless connectivity market trends.

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Wireless Connectivity Market Key Segments:

By Technology

Others

Wi-Fi

Bluetooth

Zigbee

NFC

Cellular

By Application

Consumer Electronics

Automotive

Aerospace and Defense

Healthcare

IT and Telecom

Others

By Region:

North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico)

Europe (UK, Germany, France, Russia, and Rest of Europe)

Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Rest of Asia-Pacific)

Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, and Rest of Latin America)

Middle East and Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Rest of Middle East and Africa)

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About Us:

Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Wilmington, Delaware. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports Insights" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.

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Availability of preparatory documents

Regulatory News:

The shareholders of Tikehau Capital (Paris:TKO) are invited to take part in the Combined General Meeting of the Shareholders which will be held on Monday 6 May 2024 at 3:00 p.m. at Centre de Conferences Etoile Saint-Honore, 21-25 rue Balzac, 75008 Paris

The meeting notice (avis de reunion), which includes the agenda and the draft resolutions, was published in the "Bulletin des Annonces Legales et Obligatoires" (BALO) on 22 March 2024 (Bulletin n36 Notice n2400611 journal-officiel.gouv.fr/pages/balo/).

The convening notice (avis de convocation) will be published in the "Bulletin des Annonces Legales et Obligatoires" (BALO) and in the journal of legal notices Actu-Juridique.fr on 17 April 2024. It will be addressed to the shareholders whose shares are held in registered form and made available to institutions holding securities accounts for the shareholders holding shares in bearer form.

The documents referred to under article R.22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code can be accessed on Tikehau Capital's website at: www.tikehaucapital.com (section: Shareholders General meetings Annual Shareholders Meeting 06 May 2024).

The documents and information mentioned under the second paragraph of article R.225-89 of the French Commercial Code can be accessed on Tikehau Capital's website at: www.tikehaucapital.com (section: Shareholders General meetings Annual Shareholders Meeting 06 May 2024) and are made available to the shareholders in accordance with applicable regulations:

All registered shareholders may, until the fifth day (included) before the General Meeting, request from Tikehau Capital or Societe Generale Securities Services* that these documents and information be sent to them using the request form attached to the convening notice. For holders of bearer shares, exercising this right is contingent upon the provision of a registration certificate in the accounts of bearer shares held by the authorised custodian.

These documents are made available to all shareholders at the registered office of Tikehau Capital for a period of 15 days prior to the date of the General Meeting.

__________________________

Societe Generale Securities Services, Assemblees Generales, 32 rue du Champ de Tir, CS 30812, 44312 Nantes Cedex 03.

ABOUT TIKEHAU CAPITAL

Tikehau Capital is a global alternative asset management group with 43.2 billion of assets under management (at 31 December 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.

Tikehau Capital is a founder led team with a differentiated business model, a strong balance sheet, proprietary global deal flow and a track record of backing high quality companies and executives.

Deeply rooted in the real economy, Tikehau Capital provides bespoke and innovative alternative financing solutions to companies it invests in and seeks to create long-term value for its investors, while generating positive impacts on society. Leveraging its strong equity base (3.2 billion of shareholders' equity at 31 December 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 758 employees (at 31 December 2023) across its 15 offices in Europe, 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/20240412771465/en/

Contacts:

PRESS CONTACTS:

Tikehau Capital: Valerie Sueur +33 1 40 06 39 30

UK Prosek Partners: Philip Walters +44 (0) 7773 331 589

USA Prosek Partners: Trevor Gibbons +1 646 818 9238

press@tikehaucapital.com

SHAREHOLDER AND INVESTOR CONTACTS:

Louis Igonet +33 1 40 06 11 11

Theodora Xu +33 1 40 06 18 56

shareholders@tikehaucapital.com
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, April 12

For immediate release

12 April 2024

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announce that it has today purchased 210,520 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 826.43 pence per Ordinary Share. Such shares will be held in treasury by the Company.

The transaction was made pursuant to the authority granted at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 23 January 2024.

Following this transaction, the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury is 39,275,430; the total number of Ordinary Shares that the Company has in issue, less the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury following such purchase, and therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 185,715,873.

The figure of 185,715,873 may be used by shareholders as the denominator for calculations of interests in the Company's voting rights in accordance with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

For and on behalf of

Frostrow Capital LLP

Company Secretary

For further information, please contact:

Victoria Hale

Frostrow Capital LLP

Tel: 020 3 170 8732
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY (IN WHOLE OR IN PART) IN, INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OF SUCH JURISDICTION.

THIS IS AN ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING AN EXTENSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 2.6(c) OF THE IRISH TAKEOVER PANEL ACT 1997, TAKEOVER RULES, 2022 (THE "IRISH TAKEOVER RULES") OF THE DEADLINE PROVIDED FOR IN RULE 2.6(a) OF THE IRISH TAKEOVER RULES. THIS IS NOT AN ANNOUNCEMENT OF A FIRM INTENTION TO MAKE AN OFFER UNDER RULE 2.7 OF THE IRISH TAKEOVER RULES AND THERE CAN BE NO CERTAINTY THAT AN OFFER WILL BE MADE OR AS TO THE TERMS ON WHICH ANY OFFER MIGHT BE MADE.

The Board of MariaDB plc (NYSE: MRDB) ("MariaDB" or the "Company") confirms that the Irish Takeover Panel has consented, at the request of the board of directors of the Company (the "Board") made in accordance with Rule 2.6(c) of the Irish Takeover Rules, to the extension to 5:00 pm (New York time) on Monday, April 22, 2024 (the "Further Extended Deadline") of the extended deadline of 12 April 2024 granted by the Panel on 29 March 2024, by which K1 Investment Management LLC ("K1") is to either (i) announce a firm intention to make an offer for the Company in accordance with Rule 2.7 of the Irish Takeover Rules or (ii) announce that it does not intend to make an offer for the Company, in which case the announcement will be treated as a statement to which Rule 2.8 of the Irish Takeover Rules applies.

The Board previously obtained an extension to 5:00 pm (New York time) on Friday, April 12, 2024 to facilitate ongoing discussions between the Company and K1. The Board have requested this additional extension to facilitate further discussions between K1 and certain other key stakeholders and the Company including relating to certain structural aspects of a possible offer. The Board understands that the K1 due diligence is substantially completed and expects that such discussions are capable of being concluded before the Further Extended Deadline.

The continued discussions may or may not lead to an offer being made for the entire share capital of the Company. There can be no certainty that any offer will be made. A further announcement will be made if and when appropriate.

In accordance with Rule 2.6(a) of the Irish Takeover Rules, K1 is required, no later than the Further Extended Deadline to either (i) announce a firm intention to make an offer for the Company in accordance with Rule 2.7 of the Irish Takeover Rules or (ii) announce that it does not intend to make an offer for the Company, in which case the announcement will be treated as a statement to which Rule 2.8 of the Irish Takeover Rules applies. The Further Extended Deadline will only be further extended with the consent of the Irish Takeover Panel in accordance with Rule 2.6(c) of the Takeover Rules, at the request of the Company.

IMPORTANT NOTICES

ABOUT MARIADB

MariaDB is a new generation database company whose products are used by companies big and small, reaching more than a billion users through Linux distributions and have been downloaded over one billion times. Deployed in minutes and maintained with ease, leveraging cloud automation, MariaDB database products are engineered to support any workload, any cloud and any scale all while saving up to 90% of proprietary database costs. Trusted by organizations such as Bandwidth, DigiCert, InfoArmor, Oppenheimer and Samsung, MariaDB's software is the backbone of critical services that people rely on every day. For more information, please visit mariadb.com.

RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

The directors of the Company accept responsibility for the information contained in this announcement. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the directors (who have taken all reasonable care to ensure that such is the case), the information contained in this announcement is in accordance with the facts and does not omit anything likely to affect the import of such information.

DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS OF THE IRISH TAKEOVER RULES

Under Rule 8.3(a) of the Irish Takeover Rules, any person who is 'interested' in 1% or more of any class of 'relevant securities' of the Company or a securities exchange offeror (being any offeror other than an offeror which has announced that its offer is, or is likely to be, solely in cash) must make an 'opening position disclosure' following the commencement of the 'offer period' and, if later, following the announcement in which any securities exchange offeror is first identified. An 'opening position disclosure' must contain, among other things, details of the person's 'interests' and 'short positions' in any 'relevant securities' of each of (i) the Company and (ii) any securities exchange offeror(s). An 'opening position disclosure' by a person to whom Rule 8.3(a) applies must be made by no later than 3:30 pm (New York time) on the day that is ten 'business days' following the commencement of the 'offer period' and, if appropriate, by no later than 3:30 pm (New York time) on the day that is ten 'business days' following the announcement in which any securities exchange offeror is first identified.

Under Rule 8.3(b) of the Irish Takeover Rules, if any person is, or becomes, 'interested' (directly or indirectly) in 1% or more of any class of 'relevant securities' of the Company, all 'dealings' in any 'relevant securities' of the Company or any securities exchange offeror (including by means of an option in respect of, or a derivative referenced to, any such 'relevant securities') must be publicly disclosed by not later than 3:30 pm (New York time) on the 'business day' following the date of the relevant transaction. This requirement will continue until the 'offer period' ends. If two or more persons cooperate on the basis of any agreement either express or tacit, either oral or written, to acquire an 'interest' in 'relevant securities' of the Company, they will be deemed to be a single person for the purpose of Rule 8.3 of the Irish Takeover Rules. A disclosure table, giving details of the companies in whose 'relevant securities' 'dealings' should be disclosed can be found on the Irish Takeover Panel's website at www.irishtakeoverpanel.ie.

In general, interests in securities arise when a person has long economic exposure, whether conditional or absolute, to changes in the price of the securities. In particular, a person will be treated as having an 'interest' by virtue of the ownership or control of securities, or by virtue of any option in respect of, or derivative referenced to, securities.

Terms in quotation marks are defined in the Irish Takeover Rules, which can be found on the Irish Takeover Panel's website. If you are in any doubt as to whether or not you are required to disclose a 'dealing' under Rule 8, please consult the Irish Takeover Panel's website at www.irishtakeoverpanel.ie or contact the Irish Takeover Panel at telephone number +353 1 678 9020.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this announcement are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words indicating future events and actions, such as "will" and "may," and variations of such words, and similar expressions and future-looking language identify forward-looking statements, but their absence does not mean that the statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements in this announcement include statements regarding the Possible Offer and related actions and events. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events and actions, which may vary materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Differences may result from, among other things, actions taken by the Company or its management or board or third parties, including those beyond the Company's control. Such differences and uncertainties and related risks include, but are not limited to, the possibility that an offer will not be made, the possibility that even if an offer is made, the parties will not agree on a price or other terms or will not otherwise pursue a transaction or if pursued, that a transaction will not be consummated, any negative effects of this announcement or failure to consummate a transaction on the market price of the Ordinary Shares and other Company securities (including warrants), and potentially significant transaction and related costs. The foregoing list of differences and risks and uncertainties is illustrative, but by no means exhaustive. For more information on factors that may affect the Possible Offer and related actions and events, please review "Risk Factors" described in the Company's filings and records filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company's expectations as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to update the information provided herein.

FURTHER INFORMATION

In accordance with Rule 26.1 of the Irish Takeover Rules, a copy of this announcement will be available on the Company's website at https://investors.mariadb.com/ by no later than 12:00 noon (New York time) on the business day following this announcement. The content of any website referred to in this announcement is not incorporated into, and does not form part of, this announcement.

This announcement is not intended to, and does not, constitute or form part of (1) an offer or invitation to purchase or otherwise acquire, subscribe for, tender, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities; (2) the solicitation of an offer or invitation to purchase or otherwise acquire, subscribe for, tender, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities; or (3) the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, pursuant to this announcement or otherwise.

The release, publication or distribution of this announcement in, into, or from, certain jurisdictions other than Ireland may be restricted or affected by the laws of those jurisdictions. Accordingly, copies of this announcement are not being, and must not be, mailed or otherwise forwarded, distributed or sent in, into, or from any such jurisdiction. Therefore, persons who receive this announcement (including without limitation nominees, trustees and custodians) and are subject to the laws of any jurisdiction other than Ireland who are not resident in Ireland will need to inform themselves about, and observe any applicable restrictions or requirements. Any failure to do so may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

No statement in this announcement is intended to constitute a profit forecast for any period, nor should any statements be interpreted as an indication of what the Company's future financial or operating results may be, nor should any statements be interpreted to mean that earnings or earnings per share will necessarily be greater or lesser than those for the relevant preceding financial periods for the Company. No statement in this announcement constitutes an asset valuation. No statement in this announcement constitutes an estimate of the anticipated financial effects of an acquisition of the Company, whether for the Company or any other person.

REQUESTING HARD COPY INFORMATION

Any MariaDB shareholder may request a copy of this announcement in hard copy form by writing to Investor Relations via e-mail at ir@mariadb.com. Any written requests must include the identity of the MariaDB shareholder and any hard copy documents will be posted to the address of the MariaDB shareholder provided in the written request.

A hard copy of this announcement will not be sent to MariaDB shareholders unless requested.

Source: MariaDB

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240412721736/en/

Contacts:

Investors:

ir@mariadb.com

Media:

pr@mariadb.com
TACOMA, WA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Commencement Bank (OTCQX:CBWA) is pleased to announce the upcoming move of the Bank's headquarters and Tacoma Branch from the current location at 1102 Commerce Street to the locally-owned office building at 1313 Broadway in downtown Tacoma. The move is scheduled to take place in early 2025.

"This move is small geographically, but it is a big step forward for the future of Commencement Bank. This transition will allow for a growing workforce and will consolidate the existing Tacoma team onto one floor, increasing communication and synergies between departments, and ultimately leading to better overall service for our customers. As part of the move, our bank will have naming rights to the building which will further enhance our brand," said John E. Manolides, Chief Executive Officer.

Commencement has occupied four of the building's six floors at 1102 Commerce for the past 12 years but has called downtown Tacoma its home since opening the doors in 2006. As of 2023, Commencement is the largest bank headquartered in Pierce County and intends to remain as such. Will Frame, Drew Frame, and Ray Schuler of Kidder Mathews represented the Bank on the lease transaction.

About Commencement Bank

Commencement Bank, headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, was formed in 2006 to provide traditional, reliable, and sustainable banking in Pierce, South King, Thurston counties and the surrounding areas. Their team of banking experts focuses on personal attention, flexible service, and building strong relationships with customers through state-of-the-art technology as well as traditional delivery systems. As a local bank, Commencement Bank is deeply committed to the community. For more information, please visit www.commencementbank.com . For information related to the trading of CBWA, please visit www.otcmarkets.com.

Contact Information:

John E. Manolides, Chief Executive Officer | 253.284.1802

Nigel English, President and Chief Operating Officer | 253.284.1801

SOURCE: Commencement Bank (WA)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 12, 2024) - World Copper Ltd. (TSXV: WCU) (OTCQB: WCUFF) (FSE: 7LY0) ("World Copper" or the "Company") reports that pursuant to their news release dated February 27, 2024, the Company has closed a first tranche of their non-brokered financing issuing an aggregate 53,015,112 units for gross proceeds of $3,711,058. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one additional share of the Company for a period of two years from the date of issuance at a price of $0.17 per share. The expiry of the Warrants may be accelerated if the closing price of the Company's common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") is equal to or greater than $0.30 for a minimum of twenty consecutive trading days and a notice of acceleration is provided in accordance with the terms of the Warrants.

Insider participation included Gordon Neal, CEO & President (1,714,285 units), Timothy McCutcheon, Director (400,000 units), Sead Hamzagic, CFO (500,000 units), Robert C. Kopple through his corporation KF Business Ventures, LP (14,285,714 units). These transactions constitute "related party transactions" as such term is defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements under MI 61- 101. The Company is exempt from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 in reliance on sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the transaction, insofar as it involves interested parties, is not more than the 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

Finders received 7% cash and 7% non-transferable broker warrants exercisable at $0.17 for two years and are subject to acceleration provisions. Finders are Canaccord Genuity Corp. ($11,907.00 cash and 170,100 warrants), Echelon Securities ($4,900 cash and 70,000 warrants), Haywood Securities Inc. ($7,000 cash and 100,000 warrants), RBC Dominion Securities Inc. ($10,780.00 cash only), Research Capital Corporation ($20,128.50 cash and 287,550 warrants), Richardson Wealth ($7,227.50 cash and 103,250 warrants) and Viking Infrastructure Systems Limited ($2,450.00 cash and 35,000 warrants).

All securities issued in the Offering have a four-month plus one day hold period, during which time the securities may not be traded. Closing of the Offering is subject to the final acceptance of the TSXV.

The net proceeds from the Offering are intended for general working capital and development costs.

This press release does not constitute an offer of sale of any of the foregoing securities in the United States. None of the foregoing securities have been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any applicable state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) or persons in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. 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 the foregoing securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

ABOUT WORLD COPPER LTD.

World Copper Ltd., headquartered in Vancouver, BC, is a Canadian resource company focused on the exploration and development of its copper porphyry projects: Escalones and Cristal in Chile, and Zonia in Arizona. Two of these projects have estimated resources with significant soluble copper mineralization, and each has additional copper porphyry targets with exciting potential to expand the resource base.

Detailed information is available at World Copper's website at www.worldcopperltd.com, and for general Company updates you may follow us on our social media pages via Facebook, Twitter & LinkedIn.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

WORLD COPPER LTD.

"Gordon Neal"

Gordon Neal

Chief Executive Officer and President

For further information, or to schedule a Zoom meeting with Management, please contact:

Gordon Neal or Michael Pound

Phone: 604-638-3287

E-mail: info@worldcopperltd.com

For all Public Relations inquiries, please contact:

Nancy Thompson

Vorticom, Inc.Office: 212-532-2208 | Mobile: 917-371-4053

Follow Us:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WorldCopperLtd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WorldCopperLtd

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/worldcopperltd

Neither 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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements with respect to 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", "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "would", "will", "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 news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that market fundamentals will result in sustained copper and precious metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future development of the Company's projects in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the development, construction and continued operation of the Company's projects and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, requirements for additional capital, actual results of exploration activities, including on the Escalones Project and the Cristal Project, the reasonability of the economic assumptions at the basis of the results of the PEA for the Zonia Project, the estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, future prices of copper, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, lack of investor interest in the Private Placement, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays in obtaining governmental approvals (including acceptance of the Private Placement by the TSXV), permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics, including the impact of an epidemic or pandemic on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, title disputes, the timing and possible outcome of any pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, as well as the risk factors described in the Company's annual and quarterly management's discussion and analysis and in other filings made by the Company with Canadian securities regulatory authorities under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law.

**NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES**

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205378

SOURCE: World Copper Ltd.
Bogota, the capital of Colombia, is staring at an acute water shortage which has prompted the authorities to implement water rationing measures. The citys mayor has urged residents to not waste a drop of water at this time read more

A worker of Bogota's water company monitors the level of the San Rafael reservoir, a source of drinking water for Bogota that is low due to the El Nino weather phenomenon, in La Calera on the outskirts of Bogota, Colombia, 8 April 2024. AP File Photo

The Colombian capital Bogota is facing a severe water shortage, leading to millions of residents being forced to ration the precious resource. This comes as the main water reservoirs in the city have dropped to critically low levels.

An acute drought made worse by the El Nino climate phenomenon, which typically causes high global temperatures and delays precipitation, has left reservoirs at critical levels, according to Bogota Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan.

Heres what is going on.

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Bogota begins water rationing

On Thursday (11 April), Bogota implemented water rationing measures under which officials have divided the city and dozens of surrounding towns into nine different zones, as per a CNN report.

Water services will be switched off for 24 hours in each zone on a rotational basis that will reset every 10 days, the report added.

About nine million (90 lakh) residents will be affected by this plan. Hospitals and schools are exempt from water rationing, reported BBC.

A resident drinks a coffee made with stored water during the first day of water rationing in Bogota, Colombia on 11 April 2024. Reuters

Authorities will evaluate the situation every two weeks.

Lets not waste a drop of water in Bogota at this time, Mayor Galan said in a press conference earlier in the week.

That will help us so that these restrictions can be lifted more quickly or reduced, he was quoted as saying by BBC.

People in the capital have started reducing their water usage. There are things we can no longer do, like washing the car, Clara Escobar, a resident in Bogotas suburbs, told AFP news agency.

Bogotas water crisis

The water rationing measures are part of emergency plans brought by the Colombian government and Bogotas mayor after several reservoirs plunged to historically low levels.

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Colombias reservoirs have dried up owing to a lack of rain and extreme temperatures.

The Chuza and San Rafael reservoirs, part of the Chingaza System that provides 70 per cent of Bogotas water, are at unprecedented lows.

The Chuza reservoir is at less than 17 per cent capacity, its lowest level since at least the early 1980s, as per the citys mayor.

Galan said that the aerial footage of the San Rafael and Chuza reservoirs shows, once again, that the situation is critical and we must make all necessary efforts to reduce water consumption, Storyful reported.

The critical levels of the reservoirs from which we draw drinking water for Bogota lead us to take measures aimed at saving water and reducing consumption from 17 cubic meters per second to 15, the mayor said in a post on X.

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This must be the beginning of a behavioural change that is sustainable over time and guarantees that water is enough for everyone, he added.

The San Rafael reservoir, which is a source of drinking water for Bogota, is at a low level due to the El Nino weather phenomenon, in La Calera, on the outskirts of Bogota, Colombia, 5 April 2024. AP File Photo

With its rationing measure, the city reportedly aims to save 2,000 liters of water per second.

It is not rare for cities in Latin America to reel from water crises. Mexico City and Uruguays capital Montevideo have also witnessed water shortages in recent years.

The El Nino effect

Bogota sits on a mountain plateau at 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) above sea level. The city depends heavily on rain for its water needs.

Most cities around the world depend on aquifers for their water supplies. Bogota is different in that almost all our supply comes from surface waters like reservoirs, which are more susceptible to rain patterns, Armando Sarmiento, an ecology professor at Bogotas Javeriana University, told CNN.

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According to Sarmiento, this reliance on rain makes Colombias capital particularly susceptible to drought.

Local authorities say Bogota, which is one of the busiest industrial areas of Colombia, has experienced long dry spells owing to the impact of El Nino since last year, reported CNN.

It has triggered a fall in rainfall and unusual heat in Colombia.

In February, the environment ministry had warned the citizens about the adverse effects of the natural climate pattern through a campaign with the hashtag #ElNinoNoEsUnJuego (El Nino is not a game).

As per Bloomberg, a lack of rain has also fuelled fears of power cuts as Colombia gets about two-thirds of its electricity from hydropower.

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Prepare for future crises

Colombian president Gustavo Petro wrote on X on Thursday that he had ordered a substantial change to shield water resources over the next three decades.

Warning against unhindered urbanisation, he denounced the pillaging of natural aquifers by the agriculture and construction industries, according to BBC.

In January, Petro issued a natural disaster decree that let the government access additional resources to tackle the damaging effects of El Nino such as wildfires and water stress, reported CNN.

Speaking to CNN, ecologist Sarmiento said Colombia and its capital need to be prepared for future crises at a much bigger scale.

With inputs from agencies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Jammu and Kashmirs Udhampur to campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. At the same time, Rahul Gandhi will be in Coimbatore addressing a rally along with DMK chief MK Stalin read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Udhampur to campaign for Union minister Jitendra Singh. File image/PTI

Its TGIF! Today is the last day of the working week and as you look forward to the weekend, heres what you can expect from the world and India.

PM Modi in J&Ks Udhampur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address an election rally in Jammu and Kashmirs Udhampur today. He will be campaigning for BJP candidate and Union minister Jitendra Singh, who is seeking re-election from Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency.

As per the BJP, PM Modi will address a big rally in Udhampur, in which people from Reasi, Nagrota, and Billawar will take part.

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Union minister Jitendra Singh is seeking to retain the Udhampur seat for the third time while the Congress has fielded Choudhary Lal Singh, who is facing ED heat in a money laundering case.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi being greeted by DMKs MK Stalin. File image/PTI

Rahul Gandhi and TN CM Stalin to frontline INDIA rally in Coimbatore

Congress Rahul Gandhi and the DMKs MK Stalin will attend an INDIA bloc election rally in Coimbatore today. Single phase polls to 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu will be held on 19 April.

The public meeting will be held in Coimbatores Chettypalayam area.

According to the DMK, the two leaders will participate in the rally and seek support for candidates of the opposition bloc.

Nominations for Phase 3 of Lok Sabha polls to begin

The filing of nominations for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections 2024 will begin today. States/Union Territories (UT) included in Phase 3 are Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

Elections for the 18th Lok Sabha begin on 19 April followed and will be held in phases on 26 April, 7 May, 13 May, 20 May, 25 May and 1 June. Votes will be counted on 4 June.

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Amit Shah to visit Madurai

Union Home Minister is set to visit Madurai on 12 April, for a two-day trip in Tamil Nadu that will include four road shows and a public meeting. According to sources in the BJP, Shah will land in Madurai airport on Friday afternoon and will leave for Karaikudi to campaign for Sivaganga candidate T Dhevanathan Yadav.

Shah will offer prayers at the temple in Thirumayam in Pudukkottai district. He will also visit the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai, later in the night.

Oppo to launch the first full-level waterproof phone

Oppo will launch a new smartphone today, which the company claims will be the worlds first device with a full-level waterproof rating. It will be called the Oppo A3 Pro. The device is dustproof and waterproof as it has support for an IP69 rating. The company has even claimed that the A3 Pros display is both waterproof and resistant to falls.

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The 5G phone will arrive in China first and then it is expected to make it to other markets. At the moment, it is unknown whether the Oppo A3 Pro will come to India or not.

People walk past a billboard depicting the first cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin in Tiraspol, the capital of the Russia-backed breakaway region of Transnistria, in Moldova. File image/AP

On this day: Yuri Gagarin became first human in space

On 12 April 1961, at just after 09:00 Moscow time, Russian test pilot Yuri Gagarin was launched into space from the Soviet Unions top-secret rocket base in Baikonur.

After one orbit, Gagarin re-entered Earths atmosphere and parachuted to safety, landing just before 11:00 that same morning. He proudly introduced himself to startled villagers as the first spaceman in the world. His 108-minute flight captivated the world.
Tensions of an escalation in the West Asia conflict are rising. Iran is reportedly preparing for an attack on Israel, namely on its military installations in Tel Aviv. Amid growing fears, the US has restricted travel for its staff members, asking them not to travel outside greater Jerusalem read more

Iranians burn an Israeli flag following a suspected Israeli airstrike on the Iranian embassy complex in the Syrian capital Damascus, in Tehran. Iran has vowed action against Israel for the strike, raising fears of an escalation. File image/Reuters

The war in West Asia may kick up a notch. The United States has restricted travel for its employees in Israel amid fears of an attack by Iran. In fact, a Wall Street Journal has published a report stating that Tehran would strike in the next 24 to 48 hours in retaliation to Israels move of striking the Iranian consulate in Syria 11 days ago, killing 13 people.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken has also spoken to his counterparts in China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and other European nations to ask them to dissuade Iran from striking Israel, saying it was not in anyones interest and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate.

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As the situation tenses, we take a closer look at the possible scenarios of an Iran strike.

A strike is coming?

Since Israel carried out an airstrike in Damascus, Syria, targeting the Iranian consulate and killing 13 people last week, Tehran has vowed to take action and retaliate. The airstrike on 1 April was particularly dramatic as it killed two generals and five other officers in the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Quds Force. Moreover, it happened at a diplomatic enclave, which Israel had not previously conducted operations against, even in Damascus.

Following the strike, Irans foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian had said that Israel will be punished and that America is responsible for the regimes attack on the Iranian embassy and must be held accountable.

Emergency services work at a building hit by an air strike in Damascus. An Israeli airstrike that demolished Irans consulate in Damascus Monday killed two Iranian generals and five officers, Syrian and Iranian officials said. File image/AP

And on Thursday, Irans mission to the United Nations also suggested that any Iranian military response to the deadly Israeli air raid on the Iranian consulate in Damascus could have been averted if the UN Security Council had denounced Israels attack.

Following the Israeli airstrike and the subsequent threats of a retaliatory strike, US intelligence has revealed that Iran could be poised to launch high-precision strikes using ballistic missiles or drones on targets inside Israel. A source quoted in the report said it was a matter of when, not if, Iran strikes, though it is less clear whether Tehran would take direct action or rely on its proxy network.

A Bloomberg report citing US intelligence said that Iran was drawing up plans to target Kirya, the Israeli military headquarters in Tel Aviv. According to the report, other potential targets are air bases in Palmachim in central Israel or Meron in the north, as well as the Knesset [parliament] and prime ministers office in Jerusalem.

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Even Wall Street Journal citing a source reported that Israel is preparing for a direct attack from Iran on southern or northern Israel as soon as the next 24 to 48 hours.

And fears of an imminent attack are rising as social media accounts close to the Revolutionary Guard are posting videos of simulated missile attacks on Israels Haifa airport and its nuclear facility in Dimona.

The American newspaper further reported that Iran could be preparing an attack in Golan  the disputed territory annexed by Israel from Syria  or even Gaza. The daily speaking to officials said another option Iran was considering is a strike at Israeli embassies, mostly in the Arab world.

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How Iran may strike Israel?

While theres no confirmation of an attack happening, intelligence officials are of the opinion that Iran would not carry out a direct attack against Israel, as it would be considered as an act of war and drawing out a full-fledged Israeli response.

In such a situation, experts note that Tehran would use ballistic long-range missiles that it has in its arsenal to take on Israel. A kinetic attack using ballistic missiles or drones against Israeli homeland targets would be the most impactful, and risky, option available to Tehran, said Jonathan Panikoff, a director at the Atlantic Council, in a recent security assessment.

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An Iranian carries the Iranian and Hezbollah flags in Tehran. Iran has two options: an all-out attack against Israel, or using proxies to target Tel Aviv. File image/Reuters

However, Iran also has a second option  of using its proxies, such as the Hamas, the Hezbollah, the Katib Hezbollah, the Houthis, or the Badr Organisation to carry out attacks over the border. The Hezbollah in southern Lebanon has a huge stockpile of missiles they could use to target Israel. However, it appears that the Hezbollah has been hesitant in committing to full-scale war with Israel.

How are tensions rising?

The possibility of an Iran attack against Israel has put the world on alert. The United States is seeking help from other countries to deter Tehran from carrying out a retaliatory strike and even vowed iron-clad backing to Israel.

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US president Joe Biden said, Theyre (Iran) threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel. As I told Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu, our commitment to Israels security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again, ironclad. Were going to do all we can to protect Israels security.

Israel has also responded to these threats, with Foreign Minister Israel Katz saying on X: If Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran.

General view of the Dome of the Rock mosque and the old city of Jerusalem. The US has restricted travel for its employees in Israel. File image/Reuters

At the same time, the US secretary of state Antony Blinken has spoken to Chinas Wang Yi, urging him to rein in Iran.

We have also engaged with European allies and partners over the past few days and urged them as well to send a clear message to Iran: that escalation is not in Irans interest, its not in the regions interest and its not in the worlds interest, said State Department spokesperson Matt Miller.

Russia, Germany and Britain on Thursday also urged countries in the region to show restraint. German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock called on her Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian to urge maximum restraint to avoid further escalation.

In fact, Germanys Lufthansa has extended its suspension of flights to the Iranian capital, saying it would probably not fly to Tehran before 13 April.

And on Friday (12 April), the US has restricted travel for its employees in Israel, asking staff members staff not to travel outside the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or Beer Sheva areas out of an abundance of caution.

The UK Foreign Office has also updated its travel advice for Israel to state that the countrys government has raised the possibility of an attack on Israeli territory from Iran, and that such an attack could trigger wider escalation.

But for all the concern and fear, some experts note that there wont be any Iran attack. It is, in fact, part of a wider effort to wage psychological warfare against Israel, and possibly probe for weaknesses in its air defence, by making threats aimed at putting Israels military in a constant state of alert.

Despite all the noise made by the Iranian regime, a direct strike against Israel by its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) remains highly improbable, Kasra Aarabi, an expert on the Iranian military at the United Against a Nuclear Iran advocacy group, told The Telegraph.

With inputs from agencies
After hundreds of women were forcibly deplaned from Qatar Airways flights and subjected to non-consensual invasive body searches in October 2020 at Doha airport, five Australian women sued the airlines. The incident sparked global outrage. But now an Australian court has dismissed the case, citing an international convention covering airline liability read more

Qatar Airways aircrafts are seen at Hamad International Airport in Doha. A group of Australian women strip-searched at the airport have lost a legal bid against the airline, an Australian court ruled. File photo/Reuters

It was a nightmare at Doha airport. On October 2 2020, hundreds of women were forcibly removed from Qatar Airways and were reportedly strip-searched. In 2021, five women moved an Australian court against the airline, alleging unlawful physical contact and false imprisonment. But now they have lost the bid to sue the carrier.

An Australian court on Thursday dismissed the case because the state-owned airline could not be prosecuted under the laws governing global travel. Justice John Halley found that Qatar Airways could not be held responsible under a multilateral treaty called the Montreal Convention.

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We take a look at the case that sparked global outrage and escalated to a diplomatic issue, and the court order.

Why women were strip-searched at Doha airport

Hundreds of women were forcibly deplaned from Qatar Airlines on 2 October 2020, as officials searched for the mother of a newborn found dumped in a trash can at a terminal. These included several passengers from Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Thirteen women were removed from the flight to Syndey.

Many women said they were forced to undergo non-consensual gynaecological or intimate physical examinations to check whether they had given birth and abandoned the baby. The women said that they had not consented to the examinations and were not informed why they were subjected to them.

Qatar Airways staff stand at their office in Hamad International Airport in Doha. The Australian women sued the airlines, airport authorities, and Qatari government. File photo/Reuters

The strip searches left the passengers traumatised. One of the women, who was flying to Australia with her five-month-old son, told three Australian media outlets earlier that it was the scariest moment of my life, reports The Independent.

[The nurse] said I need you to lay down on the bed  and she grabbed my pants and my underwear and she stripped them. And for a second I just think my head was about to explode, she was quoted as saying by The Independent. Its a humiliation and the abuse of power, the breach of my human rights. No one is allowed to touch me. No one is allowed to strip me naked without my consent.

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Some from Britain narrated their ordeal to the BBC after the incident. I felt like I had been raped, recalled a British grandmother Mandy, the publication reports. Another said she thought she was being kidnapped and held hostage.

Also read: Ghost flights: Why is Qatar Airways flying almost-empty planes in Australia?

How the incident sparked outrage and diplomatic row

There was global outrage as Qatars treatment of women once again came into the spotlight. The country soon swung into damage control mode.

After the incident, Qatars prime minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani. We regret the unacceptable treatment of the female passengers What took place does not reflect Qatars laws or values, he wrote on X, then Twitter.

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A criminal prosecution was launched which led to a suspended jail term for an airport official.

In September last year, Australias government rejected Qatar Airways bid to double its flights to the country, citing the invasive examinations. The airline said the decision was very unfair.

Australias transport minister Catherine King said that the womens experiences were pretty frankly, not anything we would expect anyone, and certainly not Australians travelling on an international airline, to experience.

A Qatar Airways crew member enters Sydney International Airport. Last year, Australia rejected the airlines bid to increase flights to the country. File photo/AP

Why Australian women sued the airline

More than a year after the incident, in November 2021, five Australian women, who were subjected to the invasive examination at Doha airport, decided to sue Qatari authorities and the national airline. The women decided to go to court because of what they perceived as a lack of action from Doha.

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The passengers were seeking damages and alleged assault, battery, trespass and false imprisonment by the Qatari government, Qatars Civil Aviation Authority and Qatar Airways, according to a report in The Independent. They not only wanted the airport to change its procedure to ensure that there was no repeat of the incident but also wanted a formal apology from Qatar.

By speaking up, we want to ensure that no woman is ever subjected to the demoralising, horrendous treatment we were subjected to, one of the women told the BBC previously.

Why did Australian women lose the case against Qatar Airways?

The Australian court has rejected the case brought by the five women seeking compensation from Qatar Airways but their case against the airports operator is going ahead.

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Federal Court Justice John Halley ruled the womens argument against the state-owned airline did not meet international airline liability protocols.

My conclusion that the exclusivity principle precludes the applicants from pursuing any claim for damages against Qatar Airways is a complete answer to the claims that the applicants seek to bring against Qatar Airways, Halley said.

While the Australian court rejected the case brought by five women seeking compensation from Qatar Airways, the one against the airports operator is still going ahead. File photo/AP

Qatar Airways could not be held responsible under the Montreal Convention, a multilateral treaty used to establish airline liability in the event of death or injury to passengers. He also found that the airlines staff could not have influenced the actions of Qatari police who removed the women from the flight, nor the nurses who examined them in ambulances on the tarmac, according to a report in the BBC.

The judge also said the womens case against the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority could not go ahead. However, the case against the Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management (MATAR), the airports operator, could continue. MATAR is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Qatar Airways.

What happens next?

The womens lawyer, Damian Sturzaker, said in a statement his clients were considering an appeal.

We note however that the claims against the airport operator, MATAR remain on foot. Our clients resolve to continue to agitate their claims remains undiminished, Sturzaker said. The case returns to court on May 10.

With inputs from agencies
The UK has appointed Lindy Cameron as its first woman high commissioner to India. She will succeed Alex Ellis, who completed his three-year tenure in New Delhi. Until recently, Cameron served as the chief executive of the UKs National Cyber Security Centre read more

Born in North Irelands Belfast, Lindy Cameron has worked for the British government since 1998, gaining a wealth of knowledge in security posts, conflict zones, and cyber security. Image Courtesy: @UKinIndia/X

The United Kingdom on Thursday appointed Lindy Cameron as its first woman High Commissioner to India.

Lindy Cameron CB OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of India in succession to Alex Ellis CMG, who will be transferring to another diplomatic service appointment, reads a British government statement.

The incoming envoy expressed her excitement for the new role by saying, Immensely proud to be appointed the next British High Commissioner to India. Huge thanks to Alex Ellis for leaving such a great legacy. So looking forward to working with the amazing @UKInIndia team. I cant wait to get started!

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Immensely proud to be appointed the next British High Commisssioner to India. Huge thanks to @AlexWEllis for leaving such a great legacy. So looking forward to working with the amazing @UKinIndia team. I cant wait to get started! https://t.co/JSo07xXwxI  Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) April 11, 2024

Though Cameron is the first woman representative to India, three women have represented Delhi in London since the 1950s, as per Indian Express.

She will succeed Alex Ellis, who has completed his three-year tenure in New Delhi. Speaking about the latest development, he said, A great appointment to a lovely job with an excellent UK in India team in a fascinating, vast and diverse country. Enjoy it!

A great appointment to a lovely job with an excellent @UKinIndia team in a fascinating, vast & diverse country. Enjoy it! https://t.co/Dco01AkqbF  Alex Ellis (@AlexWEllis) April 11, 2024

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Cameron is expected to join later this month.

Heres all we know about the new envoy.

Who is Lindy Cameron?

Born in North Irelands Belfast, Lindy Cameron has worked for the British government since 1998, gaining a wealth of knowledge in security posts, conflict zones, and cyber security.

According to the New Statesman, she attended Oxford University to study BA in modern history before beginning work as a consultant at McKinsey. She did her Masters in Law and Diplomacy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University in the US, as per the Centre for Science and Policy.

She has worked for the British aid organisation DFID (Department for International Development) in director-level positions.

Cameron served with the DFID in Kabul, Baghdad, Hanoi, and Lagos between 1998 and 2007. She was also the head of the provincial rebuilding team and the senior FCO representative for Southern Afghanistan in Helmand in 20092010.

According to the UK government website, Cameron also served at the Royal College of Defence Studies, which trains senior military commanders and civil servants in defence and international security in 2011.

She worked for DFID once more, this time in national programmes and in West Asia and North Africa, from 2011 until 2019.

After that, had a stint as the director general of the Northern Ireland Office from 2019 to 2020.

From October 2020 to February 2024, Cameron served as the chief executive of the UKs National Cyber Security Centre. It is a division of the intelligence hub of the British government, known as GCHQ (government communications headquarters).

Cameron last time visited India in February 2023 to discuss advances in cyber security and defence against possible attacks, as per The Print.

The long-running discussions for a free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the UK would be part of her portfolio. For those uninitiated, the 14th round of trade talks, which started in 2022, was suspended last month due to the upcoming Indian general elections  the results of which will be declared on 4 June, as per The Hindu.

With inputs from PTI
Truong My Lan, a high-profile businesswoman who chaired a sprawling company that developed luxury apartments, hotels, offices and shopping malls, was arrested in 2022. The 67-year-old was formally charged with fraud amounting to $12.5 billion  nearly three per cent of the countrys 2022 GDP read more

Truong My Lan, 67, the chair of the real estate company Van Thinh Phat, has been sentenced to death by a court in Ho Chi Minh City, south Vietnam. This verdict follows the largest financial fraud case in the countrys history. Truong My Lan was accused of orchestrating a massive fraud scheme worth $12.5 billion (Rs 1.04 lakh crore), or nearly three per cent of Vietnams 2022 GDP.

Her illegal activities included controlling the Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank from 2012 to 2022. She accomplished this by establishing a network of thousands of ghost companies and paying bribes to government officials.

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The scale of her fraudulent actions has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, especially considering that her real estate firm, Van Thinh Phat, was among Vietnams wealthiest, with projects spanning luxury residential buildings, offices, hotels, and shopping centres.

Death sentences are not uncommon in Vietnam, but it is rare in financial crime cases and for someone this well known.

Here is a look at the key details of the case.

Who is Truong My Lan?

Lan was born in 1956 and started out helping sell cosmetics with her mother, a Chinese businesswoman, in Ho Chi Minh citys oldest market, according to state media outlet Tien Phong.

Truong My Lans illegal activities included controlling the Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank from 2012 to 2022. AP

She and her family established the Van Thinh Phat company in 1992, when Vietnam shed its state-run economy in favour of a more market-oriented one that was open to foreigners. Over the years VTP grew to become one of Vietnams richest real estate firms.

Today the company is linked to some of Ho Chi Minhs most valuable downtown properties including the glittering 39-story Times Square Saigon, the five-star Windsor Plaza Hotel, the 37-story Capital Place office building and the five-star Sherwood Residence hotel where Lan lived until her arrest.

Lan met her husband, Hong Kong investor Eric Chu Nap-kee, in 1992. They have two daughters.

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What is she accused of?

Lan was involved in the 2011 merger of the beleaguered Saigon Joint Commercial Bank, or SCB, with two other lenders in a plan coordinated by Vietnams central bank.

She is accused of using the bank as her cash cow, illegally controlling it between 2012 to 2022, and using thousands of ghost companies in Vietnam and abroad to give loans to herself and her allies, according to government documents.

The loans resulted in losses of $27 billion (Rs 2.25 lakh crore), state media VN Express reported Thursday.

Defendants attend a trial for their involvement in a $12.5 billion fraud case in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Businesswoman Truong My Lan may face the death penalty if convicted of allegations that she siphoned off the amount, nearly three per cent of Vietnams 2022 GDP, in its largest financial fraud case. AP

She was accused of paying bribes to government officials  including a former central official who has been sentenced to life in prison for taking $5.2 million (Rs 43.35 crore) in bribes  and violating banking regulations, government documents said.

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The court sentenced her to death, saying her actions not only violate the property management rights of individuals but also pushed SCB into a state of special control, eroding peoples trust in the leadership of the (Communist) party and state.

Why is this happening now?

Lans arrest in October 2022 is among the most high-profile in an ongoing anti-corruption drive in Vietnam that has ramped up since 2022.

Weeks after her trial started in early March, former President Vo Van Thuong resigned after being implicated in the so-called Blazing Furnace campaign that has been the hallmark of Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, the countrys most powerful politician.

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While Lans arrest and the scale of the scam shocked the nation, the case also raised questions about whether other banks or businesses had similarly erred, dampening Vietnams economic outlook and making foreign investors jittery.

This is happening as Vietnam tries to argue its case for being the ideal home for businesses trying to move away from neighbouring China.

With inputs from AP
The airlines and unions claimed on Thursday that China closed its market to US carriers at the start of the pandemic. They noted that Chinas ongoing regulations continue to impede American aviation operations and airline staff read more

The Biden administration increased the number of round trips that Chinese airlines can make per week from 35 to 50 beginning 31 March, after China's aviation authority promised to seek an increase in flights by US carriers. Reuters

Several major US airlines along with some of their labour unions, have called on the Biden administration to halt the approval of additional flights between the United States and China. Their reasoning revolves around what they see as anti-competitive practices imposed by China on US carriers.

The airlines and unions claimed on Thursday that China closed its market to US carriers at the start of the pandemic. They noted that Chinas ongoing regulations continue to impede American aviation operations and airline staff.

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In a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the group emphasised the need for the US government to develop a policy that protects American aviation workers, the industry, and passengers.

According to the Associated Press, the letter was signed by Airlines for Americas CEO as well as the presidents of the Air Line Pilots Association, the Allied Pilots Association, and the Association of Flight Attendants.

US airlines demand fair access amidst Chinas flight expansion

In February, the US Transportation Department said Chinese passenger airlines could boost weekly round-trip US flights to 50 starting on 31 March, up from the current 35, about a third of pre-pandemic levels. US carriers were authorised as well to fly 50 flights per week but are currently not using all those flights.

Airlines for America, a trade group whose members include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, and unions in a letter to the Transportation and State departments cited the advantage Chinese airlines receive by continuing to access Russian airspace, while US carriers stopped flying through Russian airspace at the start of Russias invasion of Ukraine in March 2022.

The biggest US airlines and their unions are asking the Biden administration in a letter to stop approving more flights to the United States by Chinese airlines. AP

The letter called on Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to pause additional passenger flights between the United States and the Peoples Republic of China until US workers and businesses are guaranteed equality of access in the marketplace, free from the existing harmful anti-competitive policies of the Chinese government.

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Flights between China and the United States  which were a point of contention during the COVID-19 pandemic  have emerged as a rare area of cooperation between the two superpowers, but US airlines have expressed concern about the rapid pace of increasing flights.

Fears of more Chinese flights

Airlines are worried the Biden administration could boost or even double to 100 the number of weekly flights permitted by Chinese carriers.

Separately, US representative Mike Gallagher, the chair of the House Select Committee on China, and the panels top Democrat, Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, urged the Biden administration in a separate letter Wednesday not to approve more flights until China abides by its existing bilateral agreement, and passenger demand begins to recover.

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Air China planes sit on the tarmac at Beijing Airport in Beijing, China. AP

The lawmakers said Chinese carriers operate air routes at an anticompetitive commercial advantage that must not be allowed to increase without reciprocal parity in the number of US carrier operated routes to China. It added that American passengers must not be exposed to unnecessary security risks by traversing Russian airspace.

More than 150 weekly round-trip passenger flights were allowed by each side before restrictions were imposed in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but until August 2023, Chinese and US carriers could each fly only 12 a week between the two countries.

The number rose on 1 to 18 September weekly round-trips and then to 24 per week starting 29 October. The USDOT approved 35 for Chinese carriers in November.

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Reuters reported last June that newly approved Chinese flights to the United States were not overflying Russia, which would have given them a shorter flight time and fuel advantage over US rivals blocked from Russian airspace.

With inputs from agencies
In a recent interview, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the significance of the upcoming general election, declaring that the election was going to be a subject of study for political experts read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the significance of Lok Sabha elections 2024, proclaiming that they are going to be a subject of study for political experts.

In an interview with Hindustan, PM Modi addressed the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, stating the unique dynamics of the political landscape and the enthusiasm among voters despite speculations of a subdued electoral atmosphere.

Responding to queries about the perceived lack of enthusiasm and the absence of a wave akin to previous elections, PM Modi dismissed such notions, attributing the subdued atmosphere to the anticipated defeat of the Opposition.

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Elections are the biggest festival of democracy in India. It is not the elections, but the opposition camp that is dull because of their certain defeat, he remarked.

PM Modi reinforced his perspective by stating, If you wish to see the wave, you will have to go to the ground, be among the masses. You will see the enthusiasm among people for the third term of the BJP government at the Centre.

PM Modi highlights Indias achievements

PM Modi elucidated the achievements of his government, showcasing Indias economic prowess, technological advancements, and infrastructural development on the global stage.

He highlighted milestones such as Indias position as the fifth-largest economy, the thriving startup ecosystem, and transformative initiatives like the Make in India campaign.

Lord Shri Ram has returned to his grand abode in Ayodhya after a wait of 500 years. Kashmir is free from the shackles of Article 370 and has become a part of the countrys development story, PM Modi declared, underscoring significant milestones achieved during his tenure.

PM Modi targets Congress model of governance

Drawing a sharp contrast between the governance models of the BJP and the Congress, PM Modi highlighted the BJPs focus on national development over familial interests. He stated, Today, when we have a majority government, our priority is to strengthen the country  villages, the poor, our farmers, and the middle-class society.

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Our report card of 10 years is proof that the BJP fulfils its guarantees. Now, we are going to the masses with our vision of a Developed India by 2047, PM Modi reiterated.

The Prime Minister articulated his vision for India, envisioning a nation where every citizen has access to housing and employment opportunities.

He underscored the governments commitment to uplifting the marginalised and empowering women, citing achievements such as poverty alleviation and housing initiatives.

The fact that 25 crore (250 million) people have come out of poverty, toilets have been constructed in more than 11 crore (110 million) households, and more than 4 crore (40 million) poor people have their own houses proves that the BJP government at the Centre is dedicated to serving the poor, PM Modi affirmed.

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The voting for the general election this year is divided into seven phases with Phase I polling on April 19. The counting of votes will be on June 4.
The NIA said the two prime accused of the March 1 Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast - Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taha - were arrested from Kanthi in West Bengals East Midnapore district on Friday morning read more

Two prime accused, including the mastermind, behind the Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe blast on March 1 have been arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) from their hideout in West Bengal on Friday.

The NIA said that the two Bengaluru Cafe blast accused - Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taha - were arrested from Kanthi in West Bengals East Midnapore district on Friday morning.

Their role in Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe blast

Sharing the details of the role of the two arrested, the anti-terror agency said, Taha was the mastermind of the attack and was responsible for planning the attack, while Shazib planted the explosive device at the cafe in Bengaluru.

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Another key conspirator, Muzammil Shareef, who extended logistical support to the main accused, was nabbed on March 26.

Both Shazib and Taha are already wanted in a 2020 terrorism case. The investigating agency also informed that Taha was involved with Al Hind, the Bengaluru Module of ISIS.

Duo was hiding in West Bengal under false identity

After the blast in Rameshwaram cafe, both Taha and Shazib fled from Bengaluru and came to West Bengal, where they were hiding under false identities near Kolkata.

The NIA informed that Shazib was using the name Mohammed Juned Sayed to conceal his identity, while Taha was using Hindu identity documents and a forged Aadhar card with the name Vignesh.

NIA manhant for Bengaluru cafe blast mastermind, bomber

The blast took place on March 1 in Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe during the busy lunch hour. It left several injured. The case was handed over to the NIA on March 3.

After taking over the case, the agency browsed through CCTV camera footage and got pictures of the accused behind the blast. The a photograph of the bomber keeping a bag in the cafe was released in which he was seen wearing a cap, black pants, and black shoes.

Last week, the NIA had identified Shazib and Taha, both residents of Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district of Karnataka, as prime accused and conducted searches at 18 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh to nab them.

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Also a bounty of Rs 10 lakh was announced for information about the bomber in connection with the blast at Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe. It also emphasised that the confidentiality of the informants identities will be maintained.

On Friday morning, a NIA team traced the two men to Kolkata where they were hiding.

This pursuit, successfully accomplished by NIA was ably supported by energetic co-ordinated action and co-operation between NIA, Central Intelligence agencies and State Police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala police, the NIA said in a statement.

With inputs from agencies
The officers of Delhi govt have stopped attending the meeting All these things show that there is a conspiracy to topple the government of Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi and to implement the Presidents rule., said Delhi minister Atishi read more

Delhi Minister Atishi on Friday said that the Delhi government officers have stopped attending meetings which shows that there is a conspiracy to topple the Arvind Kejriwal government and to implement the Presidents rule in the national capital.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister & AAP leader Atishi says, "The officers of Delhi govt has stopped attending the meeting... All these things show that there is a conspiracy to topple the govt of Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi and to implement the president's rule..." pic.twitter.com/3q2yTVteHP  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

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Addressing a press conference on Friday, Atishi said, The officers of Delhi govt have stopped attending the meeting All these things show that there is a conspiracy to topple the government of Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi and to implement the Presidents rule.

She said that if such a situation arises, it will be illegal, unconstitutional and against the mandate of the people of Delhi.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister & AAP leader Atishi says, "Let me warn the BJP that imposing President's rule in Delhi will be illegal, unconstitutional and against the mandate of the people of Delhi. The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party." pic.twitter.com/IbcVTnpkNK  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

Let me warn the BJP that imposing Presidents rule in Delhi will be illegal, unconstitutional and against the mandate of the people of Delhi. The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party, she added.

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The minister also claimed that in the last few months, no senior IAS officer has been posted in Delhi.

Posts are lying vacant in departments but no postings have taken place. Bureaucrats have stopped attending meetings called by ministers, citing the Model Code of Conduct. The lieutenant governor has been writing letters to the MHA over the functioning of the Delhi government, she charged.

Later, speaking to ANI news agency, Atishi said that Kejriwal has been arrested in a fake case and that too without any proof as there is a conspiracy to topple the elected government of Delhi

When we see a few things from the past, it shows that there has been a well-thought conspiracy going on, she added.

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She also said that Kejriwals private secretary was also sacked as part of the conspiracy.

The BJP, however, denied all allegations and said that AAP has been cooking up new stories daily.

The sharp attack came days after the Delhi High Court quashed a petition by Kejriwal challenging his arrest on 21 March. Kejriwals home was raided and he was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate hours after the court refused him protection from arrest.

The Chief Minister was arrested by ED late last month in a corruption case linked to the now-scrapped Delhi liquor policy.

The EDs case is that the Delhi liquor policy 2021-22 provided an exceptionally high-profit margin of 12 per cent for wholesalers and nearly 185 per cent for retailers. A key focus of the investigation into the Delhi liquor policy case was on an alleged network of middlemen, businessmen and politicians which the central agencies have called the South Group.

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With inputs from agencies
I have to get busy in creating a new and wonderful picture of the new Jammu and Kashmir. The time is not far when Assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir will get the status of statehood. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLA and your ministers said PM Modi read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he is committed to creating a new and wonderful picture of Jammu and Kashmir and announced that the Union Territory will soon get the status of statehood.

Addressing a public rally in Udhampur, PM Modi said Modi thinks far ahead. So what has happened so far is just the trailer. I have to get busy in creating a new and wonderful picture of the new Jammu and Kashmir. The time is not far when Assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir will get the status of statehood. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLA and your ministers

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#WATCH | J&K: Addressing a public rally in Udhampur, PM Modi says, "Modi thinks far ahead. So what has happened so far is just the trailer. I have to get busy in creating a new and wonderful picture of the new Jammu and Kashmir. The time is not far when Assembly Elections will be pic.twitter.com/F8aHgialRA  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

He also threw a challenge to any political party, especially the Congress, to announce that they will bring back Article 370.

#WATCH | J&K: Addressing a public rally in Udhampur, PM Modi says, "For the sake of power, they had built a wall of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir...Due to your blessings, Modi demolished the wall of Article 370. I have also buried the debris of that wall in the ground. I challenge any pic.twitter.com/yxcyfMsVOj  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

For the sake of power, they had built a wall of 370 in Jammu and KashmirDue to your blessings, Modi demolished the wall of Article 370. I have also buried the debris of that wall in the ground. I challenge any political party in India, especially Congress, to announce that they will bring back Article 370. This country wont even look at them, said the Prime Minister.

Attacking the Congress, National Conference and PDP, he said that no one has caused as much damage to Jammu and Kashmir as these family-run parties.

#WATCH | J&K: Addressing a public rally in Udhampur, PM Modi says, "...Congress, National Conference, PDP and all other parties want to take Jammu and Kashmir back to those old days. No one has caused as much damage to Jammu and Kashmir as these family-run parties have done. Here pic.twitter.com/FkXKtBHpxd  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

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Congress, National Conference, PDP and all other parties want to take Jammu and Kashmir back to those old days. No one has caused as much damage to Jammu and Kashmir as these family-run parties have done. Here political party means of the family, by the family and for the family, said PM Modi.

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Reaching out to the voters, he said that the upcoming Lok Sabha election is not just to elect MPs but this is an election to form a strong government in the country.

When the government is strong, it completes the works by challenging the challenges, PM said.

I had told you to trust me and I will solve the problems of 60 years. I had guaranteed respect for the mothers and sisters here. I gave a guarantee that the poor would not have to worry about two meals a day. Today lakhs of families of Jammu and Kashmir have the guarantee of free ration for the next 5 years, added the Prime Minister.

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PM Modi said that he had given a guarantee to the farmers and has fulfilled it also.

Modi ki guarantee yani guarantee pura hone ki guarantee. You remember how the weak governments of Congress kept the Shahpurkandi Dam stalled for decades. The fields of the farmers of Jammu were dry and the villages were in darkness, but our water of Ravi was going to Pakistan. Modi had given a guarantee to the farmers and has fulfilled it also, he said.

On Ram Mandi, PM Modi said that it was never an election issue for the BJP as claimed by the Congress.

Congress says Ram Mandir is an election issue for BJP. I want to say that Ram Mandir was never an election issue, nor it will ever become an election issue. The struggle for Ram temple was going on even before the birth of the BJP When foreign invaders destroyed our temples, the people of India fought to save their religious places. The leaders of Congress and its allies lived in big bungalows but when it came to changing the tent of Ram Lalla, they used to turn their backs, said the Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, reacting to PM Modis remarks on Assembly elections, NC leader Omar Abdullah said that holding elections in J&K is now a compulsion for the Prime Minister as its the verdict of the Supreme Court.

#WATCH | Former J&K CM and NC leader Omar Abdullah says "It is the verdict of the Supreme Court. It would have been a favour for us if he (PM Modi) had conducted elections before the verdict of SC. It is now a compulsion for him. It is the Supreme Court's verdict to conduct https://t.co/iaKv51Gr3W pic.twitter.com/NzwUCozIu1  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

It is the verdict of the Supreme Court. It would have been a favour for us if he (PM Modi) had conducted elections before the verdict of SC. It is now a compulsion for him. It is the Supreme Courts verdict to conduct elections in J&K before 30th SeptemberAs far as statehood is concerned, he could not explain to us till now why was Article 370 removed, said Abdullah.

With inputs from agencies
At least 10 cases of deaths involving Indian or Indian-origin students in the US have been reported since January this year, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said read more

The Government of India on Friday condemned the deaths of Indian students in the United States and said the cases have been appropriately taken up with the authorities in America to seek justice.

At least 10 cases of deaths involving Indian or Indian-origin students in the US have been reported since January this year, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a press briefing in New Delhi on Friday.

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There have been some unfortunate incidents resulting in the death of Indian students in the US. These cases are under investigation. The Embassy and Consulates have extended all possible help, he said.

Since January, there have been 10 odd Indian students who have passed away. One was a case of homicide which was registered against a vagrant person. This was the most unfortunate of Vivek Saini. Then, there was a case in which the victim as shot at. So these are the two cases which are being investigated from the point of view of law and order. We are pushing very hard to ensure justice is served, he said.

Jaiswal went on to say that cases related to law and order have been appropriately taken up with the US authorities to seek justice.

Responding to a question on the safety of Indian students in America, the MEA spokesperson said the Indian Embassy in the US and the Indian consulates have strengthened their student outreach so that they can convey to the students how they should take care of themselves, what should be done and what all help we can provide as and when required.

On Tuesday, 25-year-old Indian student Mohammed Abdul Arfath, who had been missing since last month, was found dead in Cleveland, Ohio. Hailing from Nacharam, Hyderabad, Arfath was pursuing a Masters in IT from Cleveland University.

On January 15, two Indian students, G Dinesh (22) from Telangana and Wanaparthy Nikesh (21) from Andhra Pradeshs Srikakulam, were found dead in their Connecticut accommodation in the US. Both these students had gone to Hartford for higher studies. The causes of their deaths remain unknown.

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On January 29, 25-year-old Indian student Vivek Saini was hammered to death by a homeless drug addict in Georgia. Saini had earned his MBA degree just a few days before his death.

In another incident, 18-year-old Indian-American student, Akul B Dhawan, was found dead with signs of hypothermia on the back porch of a building near the University of Illinois. He had gone missing in the early hours of January 20 and was later found dead.

Neel Acharya, a computer science and data science student at Purdue University in Indiana State, who was missing since January 28, was found dead on January 30.

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On February 5, 23-year-old Sameer Kamath, a Indian doctoral student at Purdue University in Indiana, was found dead under mysterious circumstances in a nature preserve in Williamsport.

On February 1, Shreyas Reddy Benigeri, an Indian-origin student, was found dead in Ohio. He was pursuing a graduate degree in Business Statistics, at the Lindner School of Business, Cincinnati.

Another Indian student Abhijeeth Paruchuru passed away in Boston. According to the Consulate General of India in New York, no foul play was involved in his death.

Amarnath Ghosh, a 34-year-old trained classical dancer from India and a student of Washington University, was shot dead in St Louis, Missouri in the beginning of March. He was a performing artist, choreographer and art educator from Chennai

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Responding to the news of Ghoshs death, the Indian embassy in Chicago said the matter was taken up with the police and authorities to investigate the reprehensible gun attack.

Uma Satya Sai Gadde, an Indian student in the US state of Ohio died on April 5.

With inputs from agencies
PM Modi emphasised that eliminating corruption has always been the key priority of his government in the last 10 years read more

As the Opposition continues to attack the Centre for using investigative agencies as a tool to suppress dissent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi clarified that action will be taken against any level of corruption that impacts the people of India.

In an interview with Hindustan, the Prime Minister pushed back against the Oppositions allegations and made it clear probes will be launched on whoever steals the money which is meant for peoples welfare.

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He emphasised that eliminating corruption has always been the key priority of the government in the last 10 years. I am committed to taking strict action against the corrupt, PM Modi averred.

Whatever be the level of corruption, it impacts the people of the country action against such people, who steal the money meant for the welfare of the people of this country, will not end," he added.

Only 3% of corruption cases before ED are political: PM Modi

PM Modi also pointed out that of all the corruption cases before the Enforcement Directorate (ED), only three per cent are related to people associated with politics.

Of the corruption cases before the ED, only three per cent are of persons associated with politics. The remaining 97 per cent of cases involve officers and other criminals. Action is being taken against them also. Those who see benefits in the corrupt system are presenting a wrong picture to the people, the Prime Minister said.

ED has also arrested many corrupt officers. Assets worth thousands of crores of corrupt bureaucrats, criminals involved in terrorist funding and drug smugglers have also been confiscated, the Prime Minister furthered.

PM Modi explains steps taken by his administration to remove corruption

The Prime Minister highlighted how his government have made solid efforts to eliminate corruption at various levels. We ended Group C and Group D interviews in central recruitments. We started the National Single Window System for clearance in the country. We tried to make government services as faceless as possible, he said.

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He went on to cite the direct benefit transfer (DBT) system, PM Modi stated that his administration has removed the names of over 100 million fake beneficiaries. By doing this, the government saved Rs 2.75 lakh crore from going into the wrong hands," he explained.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated that the administrations crackdown on corruption can be measured by the amount of cash the ED has seized over the years.

Before 2014, ED attached assets worth only Rs 5,000 crores, whereas in the last 10 years, that amount has increased to more than Rs 1 lakh crore, PM Modi remarked.

Before 2014, ED had seized only Rs 34 lakh in cash, while under our government it has seized more than Rs 2,200 crore in cash. Imagine, if this money was invested in welfare schemes for the poor, how many people would have benefited, how many opportunities could have been created for the youth, he furthered.

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He concluded his argument by taking potshots at the opposition and slammed them for spreading such narratives.
The Taliban recently claimed in a media report that it has started restoring properties to displaced Afghan Hindus and Sikhs read more

Most Afghan and Hindus left the country after the Taliban took over the country in 2021. Source: ANI

India considers reports of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan restoring properties to the countrys minority Hindu and Sikh community as a positive development, said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday.

Jaiswals comment comes after the Taliban recently made this claim in a media report.

The vast majority of Hindus and Sikhs left Afghanistan in 2021 when the Taliban forcefully seized power after overthrowing the democratically-elected government of the then-President Ashraf Ghani. The exodus of the communities had, however, been going on since 1970-80s when unrest began in the country following the Soviet invasion and the subsequent war and the rise of the Taliban.

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We look at it as a positive development

When asked at the weekly press briefing about the development, Jaiswal said that we have also seen some reports of the Taliban regime restoring properties to Hindus and Sikhs. He did not confirm the development on his part.

If the Taliban administration has decided to restore properties to Hindus and Sikhs from Afghanistan who are their nations, of course, it is something which is a positive development. This is how we look at it, said Jaiswal.

Starting shortly!



Tune in for our weekly media briefing:https://t.co/wcKD5BEucn  Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 12, 2024

Following the take-over of Afghanistan by the Taliban in 2021, India had facilitated the travel of hundreds of Hindus and Sikhs out of the country. This included many who held Afghan citizenship.

The MEA set up a Special Afghanistan Cell for the purpose and a total of 669 people were evacuated from Afghanistan under the Operation Devi Shakti which included 206 Afghan nationals including Hindu and Sikh minority community members, according to a reply of Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan to Rajya Sabha in August 2022.

In January 2023, India also facilitated the safe arrival of the final two copies of Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred book of the Sikhs, from gurudwaras in Afghanistans Ghazni and Kabul to New Delhi.

Restoring properties to Hindus, Sikhs usurped by previous rulers: Taliban

The self-styled Justice Ministry of the Taliban told The Hindu that a commission set up by the regime has started restoring properties of Hindus and Sikhs that were taken over during the previous governments tenures by various warlords of the country.

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A commission chaired by the Minister of Justice has been established to return to their owners all properties which had been usurped by warlords during the former regime, said Suhail Shaheen, Head of the Talibans Political Office, to the newspaper.

Shaheen noted in the report that Narender Singh Khalsa, a Sikh Member of the Parliament of Afghanistan, has returned to the country under the scheme. He had arrived in India after the Taliban takeover but had moved to Canada later.
The prime minister stated that while Congress was focusing on strengthening its family when it was in power, his government focused on strengthening the country read more

While expressing confidence over his partys performance in the upcoming Lok Sabha Polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the differences between the Congress model and the BJP model.

The prime minister stated that while Congress was focusing on strengthening its family when it was in power, his government focused on strengthening the country.

During an interview with Hindustan, PM Modi expressed confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will win a historic third term in general elections that are scheduled to begin next week.

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He went on to highlight his administrations record for 10 years and explained how it is better than the congress model.

BJP Model vs Congress Model

During the interview, the Prime Minister emphasised that this is the first time the people of the country can analyse and compare both administrations.

The people of India are seeing that today our country is the fifth largest and fastest growing economy in the world. Today, India has the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. Indias space mission, Make in India campaign and unprecedented expansion of infrastructure are being discussed all over the world, the prime minister averred.

Congress also ran the government with full majority for five to six decades. It has been only a decade since the BJP government has been in power with an absolute majority.

When their government had a full majority, they remained busy strengthening their families. Today when we have a government with a full majority, our priority is to strengthen the country. Villages, the poor, farmers and the middle class have to be empowered. Not only the country but the world is seeing the difference between the two, he added.

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PM Modi mentioned that his administrations report card for 10 years indicates that BJP always fulfils its promises.Now, we are going to the masses with our vision of a developed India by 2047, he said.

PM Modi went on to underline his governments vision for India and his administrations record in eradicating poverty, expanding hygiene and providing housing for the poor. And what you have witnessed in the last 10 years is just the trailer. A lot more work has to be done. We have to take the country far ahead, he concluded.
Apart from being one of the most challenging operations in the history of the world, Operation Meghdoot is distinguished by being one of the greatest examples of seamless coordination and synergy between the Indian Army and the Air Force read more

The root cause of the Siachen dispute can be traced back to the Karachi Agreement of 1949. The representatives of both nations drew the Ceasefire Line across maps of Jammu and Kashmir from Manawar in the south to Khor in the north and thence North to the Glaciers through NJ 9842. Post the 1971 War, the line running north of NJ 9842, was the point mentioned when the talks between India and Pakistan took place in Suchetgarh to delineate the Line of Control. Presumably, when the discussion came up on the glaciated wilderness of snow and ice the representatives stopped at grid Point NJ 9842 on the presumption that neither side would be interested in contesting an area where not a blade of grass grows and even breathing is a problem.

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Beneath the veneer of this bleak beauty lie menacing hazards that snatch away human lives if one is not careful. The glacier, is of strategic importance to India, Pakistan and China as it is a hub for Shaksgam Valley and Karakoram Pass.

In 1963, Pakistan illegally ceded some 5,180 square kilometres of Indian territory to China in the area where the boundaries of India, Pakistan and China meet thereby altering the geostrategic importance of this area. Further, the glacier is the source of the Nubra river that eventually feeds the Indus river, which is the major water source that irrigates the plains of Punjab in Pakistan. The problem started when Pakistan decided to further their ambitions by permitting and assisting foreign mountaineering and scientific expeditions in the area and raised the issue of rights in an area that did not belong to them.

Throughout the 1970s, several mountaineering expeditions were sponsored from the Pakistan side, many of which included foreign participants to lay claim to this area. These crossed the Saltoro Ridge and the Siachen glacier.

The build-up

It was only on 24 January 1978 that the Indian authorities became aware of the implications of joining NJ9842 to the Karakoram Pass and Pakistans mountaineering expeditions. While due northwards meant along the Saltoro Ridge to K2, Pakistan in a cartographic aggression joined the line with Karakoram Pass thereby including both Siachen and Shaksgam Valley in their area.

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In response, India decided to send a strong military mountaineering expedition to climb a series of peaks on either side of the Siachen glacier led by Colonel Narinder (Bull) Kumar, a well-known mountaineer in 1978. The Indian Army returned to the glacier in 1981 to climb Saltoro Kangri I and other peaks and reached Indira Col (West) at the head of the glacier. In between these an army team climbed Apsarasas in 1980. It was on one of these expeditions under Colonel Kumar who headed the High-Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), and was a recipient of the Padma Shri, Kirti Chakra, Arjuna Award and McGregor Medal, that the cartographic aggression of Pakistan in the Siachen glacier was first detected in the region. The success of these expeditions also revealed evidence of other expeditions having entered the Siachen area from the west. Thereafter the Indian Army also sent long-range patrols to the area.

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Kumar alerted Lieutenant General ML Chibber, earlier the DGMO and later the Northern Army Commander about the Siachen mountaineering expeditions from Pakistan and recommended that to ensure the Pakistanis do not intrude into Siachen, India should establish a post in the area which could be manned during the summer. His actions led to him being fondly called the Saviour of Siachen. The role of the Indian Air Force remained integral in the success of these expeditions since they supported the Indian Army by providing valuable logistic support and supply of fresh rations. A plan to counter Pakistan and not lose the area which is legitimately ours was discussed in Army Headquarters and approved by then Chief General Arun Vaidya and thereafter the Cabinet Committee of Security gave clearance to launch a pre-emptive counter operation. The Indian Army thereafter took action and occupied Saltoro Range.

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The Indian Army launched Operation Meghdoot on 13 April 1984 under the leadership of Lieutenant General Manohar Lal Chibber, Lieutenant General PN Hoon and Major General Shiv Sharma. The primary objective of the operation was to pre-empt the seizure of Sia La and Bilafond La passes by the Pakistan Army. Bilafond La had been used as a traditional Pass for climbing from the West. From the north to south, there were four important passes on the Saltoro Ridge: Sia La, Bilafond La, Gyong La and Chulung La.

Commencement of the operations

The task of establishing the Indian Armys presence over Siachen Glacier was entrusted to 26 Sector commanded by Brigadier VN Channa. The 4 KUMAON, supported by a company of Ladakh Scouts under Major VS Salaria and two companies of 19 KUMAON commanded by Lieutenant Colonel (later Brigadier) DK Khanna were in turn tasked to occupy the Siachen Glacier Complex. Before undertaking the task, the troops carried out rigorous training for several weeks, which included ice craft, snow craft, survival, physical fitness and mental robustness. The first troops to be heli-dropped as part of the Zorawar Task Force were commanded by Major (later Colonel) RS Sandhu, VrC of 4 KUMAON. The first wave was under Captain (later Lieutenant General) Sanjay Kulkarni, who landed on the Glacier on 13 April 1984, and hoisted the Indian tricolour on Bilafond La four days later as they could not move ahead initially due to a severe snowstorm.

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He recalls approaching the Pass only to find a Pakistani helicopter hovering overhead and it was at that time Pakistan realised they had lost the race to occupy the Saltora Ridge which they had planned to occupy as part of Operation Ababeel.

The foot column led by Major VS Salaria of Ladakh Scouts and Captain (later Lieutenant Colonel) PV Yadav, reached the glacier subsequently, after an extremely strenuous four-day march over extremely inhospitable terrain. The column set up Camps I, II and III for the maintenance of newly established posts on the glacier.

Pakistani troops soon occupied a location west of Bilafond La and commenced firing on 27 April and thereafter launched their first attack on 23 June. But in the mountains once the heights are held by trained and acclimatised soldiers who are logistically sustained it is nearly impossible to dislodge them.

In February 1985, the adversary attempted an attack to occupy the height overlooking Sia La; this attempt too met with failure. By 1987, the Indian Army managed to control all major mountain passes of Sia La, Bilafond La, Gyong La and all the commanding heights of the Saltoro Ridge West of the Siachen Glacier.

The next major effort to change the situation on the ground took place in 1987 when the Pakistani Special Services Group (SSG) occupied a position overlooking the Bilafond La area in March-April named as Quaid Post after Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah. The post was a strategically important area in Siachen that was infiltrated by Pakistani forces was located at a height of 6,500 metres on the highest peak in the Siachen Glacier and threatened Indian movement on the Western Siachen Glacier.

Battle of Bana Post

Quaid Post was located on a massive ice mass located at an altitude of 21,153 feet above sea level. The steep ice wall of Quaid Post gives it a very dominating position and to defend it one has to just take potshots at anyone trying to crawl up.

To take control of the Post, India launched Operation RAJIV named after Second Lieutenant Rajiv Pandey of 8 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI) who led a team of soldiers tasked to capture a feature called Left Shoulder at 21,000 feet lying between two Indian posts. During the final assault on 29 May 1987, he was killed. The army then planned yet another operation, which was conducted in June 1987, to capture the post and evict the Pakistanis from there. The task force launched multiple unsuccessful attacks on the Pakistani troops stationed at the post. On the night of 25 June 1987, a team led by Naib Subedar (now Honorary Captain) Bana Singh of 8 JAK LI moved forward to attack the post. They managed to capture it successfully by 26 June 1987.

Naib Subedar Bana Singh of 8 JAK LI had volunteered to be a member of a task force constituted in June 1987. He and his team slowly climbed and clawed their way up the steep wall of ice. The weather was extremely hostile and due to extreme cold, the weapons of the Support Group were malfunctioning. Taking advantage of the poor visibility due to heavy snowfall, Naib Subedar Singh and his group managed to reach close to the enemy post.

En route, they crossed the frozen bodies of their comrades from their battalion, who was killed in earlier attempts to capture the post. Just short of the objective Naib Subedar Singh further divided his small group and using grenades rushed in. Lobbing grenades into the bunkers and finishing off the occupants with the bayonet, seven Pakistani SSG Commandos were killed on the spot and the remainder fled. He was soon joined by others from his unit and the post was safe in Indian hands. Having fought against all odds they were successful in capturing the Quaid Post which was later renamed as Bana Top.

For displaying conspicuous courage, dauntless determination and devotion beyond the call of duty, Naib Subedar Bana Singh was awarded Param Vir Chakra.

With the persistent efforts from both the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, by 1987 Gyong La and all the commanding heights of the Saltoro Ridge West of the Siachen Glacier were successfully again under Indias control. The actions of the Indian Army ensured that Pakistan had no further presence on the Siachen Glacier.

In September 1987, Pakistan again launched a major attack to capture the areas around Bilafond La. However, due to insufficient understanding of the impact of terrain on military operations, this attack ended up as a major defeat for Pakistan. In this operation, Major KG Chatterjee, Lance Havildar NB Ale and Naik PB Gurung of 3rd Battalion 4th Gorkha Rifles displayed raw courage and valour in the face of the enemy and were awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.

Kargil War of 1999

During Operation Vijay in 1999, while the Kargil sector bore the main brunt, Siachen Glacier too was the scene of a spectacular military action. In which a handful of brave men overcame tremendous odds and captured what was considered to be an unassailable Pakistani Army Post- Point 5770 and Point 5590.

This peak located in Chamunda/Turtuk Sector adjoining NJ9842, is the place from where the area of Operation Meghdoot started. Approach to Point 5770 from the Pakistani side, though quite daunting, was in relative terms, easier.

Taking advantage of the same, the Pakistanis were able to secure this feature and establish a defensive position, naming it Bilal Post. As Pimple Post effectively covered the approach to Point 5770, any attempt by the Indian Army to reach this peak was nothing less than a suicidal act. Despite the odds, small teams of the Indian Army under Major Navdeep Singh Cheema of 27 RAJPUT and Captain Shyamlal Sinha of HAWS were tasked to capture this formidable post.

This attack came as a shock for Pakistanis. They immediately brought down heavy fire on the assault team, but failed to dislodge the determined attackers from Point 5770. The Indian Army had gained control of this strategic height and effectively thwarted enemy designs to cut off the Bahadur Complex.

Bilal Post was later renamed as Navdeep Top a befitting tribute to the daring leader of the assault group, who by personal example motivated his team to accomplish the near impossible task assigned, without incurring any casualty.

Another battle that was fought in the region during the Kargil War was the Battle of Point 5590 where Captain Haneef Uddin of 11 Rajputana Rifles gave Pakistan the taste of defeat in the extreme conditions of Siachen Glacier.

Conclusion

The illustrious history of Operation MEGHDOOT is a testament to the grit, determination and valour of the Indian Armed Forces where about 90 per cent of the casualties are due to the weather. The unimaginable heights were conquered by not only those soldiers who have occupied the defences physically but also by those who have supported them by various means over the decades which range from logistic supplies, medical assistance by the doctors who have been physically present on these icy heights and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) who have developed the infrastructure in this inhospitable terrain.

Apart from being one of the most challenging operations in the history of the world, Operation Meghdoot is distinguished by being one of the greatest examples of jointness and synergy between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. The army and IAF have been fighting shoulder to shoulder at the worlds highest battlefield which is distinctive for its combat and gallantry in the longest joint operation undertaken by India. It has once again proven the fighting spirit of Indian soldiers and Siachen will undoubtedly remain firmly planted in the rich lexicon of Indias military history.

The scroll of honour at the Siachen Base Camp reads, Quartered in snow, silent to remain. When the bugle calls, they shall rise and march again. Forty years later we must pay homage to those extraordinary personnel who laid down their lives in the highest traditions of the Services as well as salute those who have served there over the years and whose legacy inspires future generations.

The author is a retired Major General of the Indian Army. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
India once again features in the main competition at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival after a hiatus of 30 years read more

'All We Imagine as Light' by Payal Kapadia in the official competition of the Cannes Film Festival.

It was a night to remember in Cannes. As the sun gradually set on the Mediterranean on September 19, 1946, American operatic lyric soprano and actress Grace Moore stepped forward and began singing. The song she sang was La Marseillaise, the national anthem of France. Moores rendition immediately struck a chord with the emotional crowd of celebrities, diplomats, and delegates at the Grand Hotel attending the International Film Festival.

Seven years earlier, on September 1, 1939, Cannes had to hastily postpone its first film festival as Hitler invaded Poland on the opening night, and the war that followed left the world devastated. That night in 1946, France, still recovering from political strife, afflicted by shortages, and living with fresh memories of the Nazi occupation, staged a glittering celebration of peace.

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In its first edition after World War II, Cannes, applauded by the French Resistance, positioned itself as a counter-festival and a festival of the free world. Special trains filled with producers, filmmakers, and cineastes began pouring into Cannes.

The municipal casino of Cannes was converted into a cinema seating 850 for around a thousand international delegates, including 360 journalists. Twenty-one nations participated, and film stars including Errol Flynn, Tyrone Power, and Edward G Robinson grabbed everyones attention. The festival screened 52 features and 75 shorts from 21 nations.

As exploding fireworks illuminated the night sky from September 20 to October 5, 1946, over the Mediterranean resort of Cannes, the Cote dAzur became the Hollywood of Europe. Despite the eleventh-hour crisis management and major technical mishaps, the film festival was enthusiastically embraced by the international community, making Cannes the template for all future international film festivals. And after years of suffering, France began to regain its position as a great world power once more.

The famed seaside resort filled with the faint licorice smell of mimosa saw the birth of Italian neo-realism with the screening of Rome Open City by Roberto Rossellini. The festival brought some of the best films from around the world, including Jean Cocteaus Beauty and the Beast, Alfred Hitchcocks Notorious, and Gilda by Charles Cukor.

Among the thousand delegates, a young man born in the distant town of Gurdaspur, India, was in Cannes to screen his directorial debut, Neecha Nagar. Chetan Anand, the highly educated son of a lawyer, had no previous experience in cinema or family in the film industry.

For his debut film, written by Hayatullah Ansari with dialogues by KA Abbas, he cast his wife Uma Anand along with Kamini Kaushal, Rafiq Anwar, Rafi Peer, and a much younger Zohra Sehgal. The music for the film was composed by sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar.

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The film that effectively used the expressionist montage technique to portray the gulf between the rich and the poor appealed to the jury at Cannes. Chetan Anands Neecha Nagar became the first Indian film to be honoured at Cannes, sharing the top prize, the Grand Prix du Festival International du Film.

Inspired by the success of Neecha Nagar at Cannes, a young Indian advertising executive, Satyajit Ray, wrote a letter to Chetan Anand saying that he was making his own first film. Another aspiring filmmaker who saw the film during its limited screenings in India was Mrinal Sen. In 1956, towards the end of the Cannes Film Festival, an unknown Indian film was scheduled to be screened at midnight. It was titled Pather Panchali and was the debut film of Satyajit Ray.

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Pather Panchalis journey from Calcutta to Cannes was fraught with political shenanigans. Ultimately, the direct intervention of the Prime Ministers office enabled the print to reach the projection room at the Palais de Festival in Cannes as Indias official entry.

However, the national award-winning film had arrived in Cannes starved of any advance publicity and the filmmaker was not present. Ray later recalled, I had no means of going, so I stayed back and held my breath. As I learnt later, the official screening of the film took place around midnight. The jury had already, on the same day, sat through four long features and decided to skip the Indian entry.

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The sole official screening of Pather Panchali was also eclipsed by the most sought-after invitation: the Japanese dinner for publicising Akira Kurosawas I Live In Fear, hosted on the rooftop of Hotel Martinez overlooking the Mediterranean. Some critics nevertheless persisted in watching the Indian film instead. They came out of the cinema mesmerised by the unforgettable experience.

Rays expressive portrait of a family living in rural India presented one of the most breathtaking scenes in all of world cinemaApu and his sisters first glimpse of a train in motion. The jury was persuaded to rescreen the film, and then on the night of May 11 in Cannes, Maurice Lehmann, the president of the jury, revealed the winners from the finest films the world had to offer. He slowly detailed, Prix du document humain: Pather Panchali, Inde." Rays debut film won the Best Human Document award at Cannes, and it was accepted in absentia.

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Although the film was denied the honour of Palme dOr and handed an improvised award, The New York Times Howard Thompson concluded, Pather Panchali, a labour of love and the first film made by the Indian Satyajit Ray, was the most important picture of the festival. With the discovery of a new masterpiece of poetic cinema, a brilliant and original cinematic idiom made itself visible across the world.

Since 1946, Cannes has continued to celebrate an international cinematic renaissance and encourage artistic exploration year after year. The festival introduced the Italian neo-realists. The French Nouvelle Vague was born there. So did gritty Hollywood. The best of the festival premieres at Cannes include 400 Blows, The Tin Drum, La Dolce Vita, The Birds, Taxi Driver, Apocalypse Now, and Pulp Fiction. Cannes has discovered and feted Hitchcock, Godard, Truffaut, Scorsese, Coppola, and Tarantino.

India too has its history at Cannes. Besides applauding Satyajit Ray, Bimal Roy was one of the winners of the International Prize for Do Bigha Zameen in 1954. Over the years, V Shantarams Amar Bhoopali (1952), Raj Kapoors Awaara (1953), Satyajit Rays Parash Pathar (1958), and MS Sathyus Garm Hava (1974) were selected for Cannes Competition segment. Mrinal Sen, who was a Cannes regular with many of his films in competition over the years and a Jury member in 1982, won the Jury Prize (Prix du Jury) in 1983 for his film Kharij, sometimes translated as The Case is Closed. The Camera dOr at Cannes for the best first film was won twice by Indian filmmakers: Mira Nairs Salaam Bombay in 1988 and Murali Nairs Marana Simhasanam (Throne of Death) in 1999.

In April 1994, the editor of Screen International excitedly called me from London to inquire about Swaham (My Own) made by Indian filmmaker Shaji Neelakantan Karun, who had been selected for the competition section at Cannes. Through several long-distance calls in the pre-cell phone era to Gods own country I did track down and interview the shy director and wrote about his film for Screen International.

Shajis debut film Piravi (1988) won the Camera dOr, the Mention dhonneur at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival, and Swaham competed for the Palme dOr, the top prize at Cannes, the Palme dOr that was introduced in 1955.

Now, three decades later, between May 14 and 25, 2024, thousands of fans will line the road in Cannes, hoping for a glimpse of stars. Paparazzi will snap photographs, and Instagram will ensure worldwide publicity as Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia will walk the red carpet for the world premiere of her film All We Imagine As Light at Cannes.

India is once again featured in the main competition at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival after a hiatus of 30 years. Kapadia will be competing for the sought-after Palme dOr along with some of the most celebrated names in world cinema: Francis Ford Coppola (Megalopolis), David Cronenberg (The Shrouds), Paul Schrader (Oh Canada), Sean Baker (Anora), Yorgos Lanthimos (Kinds Of Kindness) and Paulo Sorrentino (Parthenope). Kapadia earlier in 2021 won the Golden Eye Award at Cannes for best documentary for A Night of Not Knowing Nothing and her film Afternoon Clouds was part of the Cinefondation section in 2017. British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suris debut feature, Santosh, has also been selected for the Un Certain Regard section in 2024.

History is about to be made, and Indian cinema is once again going to be celebrated on the French Riviera.

The writer is the biographer of Subhas Chandra Bose, Har Dayal and Sardar Patel and is the author of India on the World Stage. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
My two-week sojourn in India in mid-March was most welcome for someone as homesick as I. As India celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, the midday temperature also turned torrid in Delhi. As did the political temperature, with incumbent Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals incarceration on 21 March 21. The Aam Aadmi Party chief is still in the judicial remand of the Enforcement Directorate till 15 April. He is lodged in Delhis Tihar jail, home to many notorious as well as illustrious prisoners before him. It is supremely ironic that the prison complex is under Delhi states, that is, his own administration.

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Back in the United States, the question on everyones mind was whether former president and current Republican frontrunner, Donald Trump, could face not just conviction but imprisonment. Trump is entangled in dozens of court cases in four major lawsuits  two of these are for federal offences and two are in the states of New York and Georgia respectively. In addition, a New York judge Arthur Engoron imposed a fine of over $450 million for civil fraud. Thankfully, for the Trump team, that almost impossible if not insane bail bond was reduced to $150 million. No small change, that! Apparently, on April Fools Day, April 1, 2024, the amount was credited to the state, temporarily saving Trump from the attachment of his properties, including the iconic Trump Tower, on 5th Avenue in midtown Manhattan.

How can a person, so mired in litigation and controversy, devote sufficient time, energy, and attention to the highest office in the land? Such a question, one might imagine, would be uppermost in voters minds. Not so. At least not yet. Trumps troubles, as he himself has reiterated over and over again, are part of the political vendetta against him. Rather than fighting him fair and square, his antagonists, so goes the claim, want to debar and disable him from running. Even fighting the election itself, which is his fundamental right.

Both the Republican party as well as his loyal vote bank seem firmly behind him. For now. Within the Grand Old Party, he has no serious rivals. His nomination to his partys presidential ticket is virtually assured. Despite the relentless scrutiny and controversies galore that have dogged, from the very inception, his comeback campaign, Trump remains a rallying figure for American conservatives across the nation.

However, this support base is by no means traditional or uncomplicated. The old guard Republicans view him as too much of a maverick if not an outright megalomaniac. Washington insiders, so used to wheeling and dealing across the aisles with their Democratic counterparts, find in Trump an unpredictable if not inconvenient leader. American conservatism is centuries old. It relies as much on the rule of law as on privilege. Trump has the distressing ability to call the former into question. As to the latter, he does not represent old money. On the contrary, he is seen as a bit of an upstart.

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Trumps standard operating procedure is to revile and discredit not only his adversaries and opponents, but also those very judicial and legal processes that have now been used against him to stop him in his tracks. But by undermining the institutions that make the United States great, Trump may be playing into the hands of arch-rival China. Chinese propaganda has been emphasizing that the US is a broken society and polity, no longer fit to serve as an example to other nations let alone rule the world. During his widely publicised trials, Trump comes across as someone, who far from being contrite for his alleged misdemeanors and indiscretions is consistently and deliberately defiant and disrespectful of the laws of the land. True, many of the members of the prosecution ranged against him are Democrats; even so, in the eyes of the people the trials show Trump as somewhat beyond the pale of the law. This makes him a destabilizing and divisive figure.

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There is, of course, the further question: what if he is actually convicted and declared a felon? What if he serves time in jail, during his campaign? Or, worse, what if he wins when he is serving a term? This would take America into totally unchartered waters. It is not as if no US presidential candidate has stood for election while being in jail. But the last time this happened was certainly not in living memory. US history buffs would know that the Socialist candidate for US presidency, Eugene Victor Debs (1855-1926) stood for election five times. Of these, his last attempt, in 1920, was when he was imprisoned.

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Of course, Debs was never a serious candidate, nor did he ever poll more than 6 per cent of the popular vote. It is also an irony of history that instead of a far left it is a far-right candidate, not to mention former US president, who might end up in a prison cell if convicted. Luckily, for him, the US Constitution would not debar him from running even if that were to happen. Who can run for the president of the United States? Anyone who is a natural born citizen, has lived in the US for at least 14 years, and is at least 35 years of age can contest the presidential elections. With the eligibility requirements being rather easy to meet, Trump would not be disqualified even if he is a convicted felon.

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In addition, attempts to debar Trump for engaging in insurrection or rebellion in violation of his oath to uphold the Constitution under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment Courts may also come a cropper. Although Colorado ruled him guilty and declared him ineligible to run, California did not. Michigan and Minnesota have also thrown out similar lawsuits against Trump on procedural grounds. The trump card, pun intended, lies with the Supreme Court. With three Trump appointees as sitting judges, the final ruling may not go against him.

To return to India, Kejriwal as the jailbird CM of Delhi has not garnered much sympathy if opinion polls are anything to go by. More than 50 per cent of respondents in one survey from his own home state of Delhi do not believe him to be innocent. Whether he and his party will benefit in the coming general elections is also doubtful. Last time, AAP won not a single Lok Sabha seat in Delhi. Similarly, the widely publicised courtroom dramas of Trumps various alleged crimes and legal violations are like washing so much dirty linen in public. While it gains him free publicity, it also diminishes his stature slowly but surely. No wonder, despite his approval ratings being an all-time low, octogenarian current President Joe Biden has just overtaken Trump in the pre-poll surveys.

The author is Director of Education, Access Health Care Physicians LLC, Spring Hill, Florida. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
China has developed a new satellite that will allow certain capable smartphones to place calls to other smartphones through a satellite. Called Satellite Calls, the feature has been available with smartphones for quite some time now, but was only available in a select few areas, namely the Americas read more

A team of Chinese engineers and scientists have developed the worlds first satellite that lets smartphones place a call directly through it, instead of mobile towers. The idea is, that in case of an emergency where mobile connectivity may be severely impacted because of a natural calamity or any other disaster, people can call for help directly, by connecting to an overhead communication orbitter.

The idea for such a satellite came about after 2008, when Sichuan, a province in southwestern China, was struck by a devastating magnitude-8 earthquake, resulting in the tragic loss of over 80,000 lives.

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What made the situation far worse back then was the communication breakdowns in affected areas, which in turn severely hindered rescue operations, thus compounding the crisis.

In response to this disaster, the Chinese government started the Tiantong Project, a satellite communication system. The purpose of the satellite is to provide universal access to communication services irrespective of socio-economic status.

Named after the Chinese term for connecting with heaven, reminiscent of the biblical Tower of Babel, the project symbolized a commitment to enhancing communication resilience in the face of adversity.

Sixteen years since its inception, the Tiantong Project has witnessed some major advancements in satellite communication technology. This, as if by miracle coincides with new trends and developments in mobile phone connectivity.

The deployment of the Tiantong-1 series involves launching three satellites orbiting synchronously at an altitude of 36,000 kilometers. This has the potential to revolutionise communication across the Asia-Pacific region, from the Middle East to the Pacific Ocean.

In September of the previous year, Huawei Technologies introduced the worlds first smartphone capable of satellite calls. These smartphones were compatible with the Tiantong satellites. Globally, the first smartphone to advertise satellite calling as a feature was the iPhone 14.

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Huaweis breakthrough innovation paved the way for other Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Xiaomi, Honor, and Oppo, to follow suit, catering to a growing demand for satellite-enabled mobile devices among Chinese consumers.

However, the realization of direct satellite connectivity for mobile phones posed formidable technical challenges, particularly concerning passive intermodulation (PIM) interference. PIM has plagued commercial communication satellite networks, hindering further technological advancements.

In response, Chinese scientists spearheaded groundbreaking research to mitigate PIM effects, culminating in the development of innovative suppression techniques and advanced detection technology.

The success of the Tiantong Project underscores Chinas leadership in satellite communication technology and its commitment to addressing critical challenges facing the aerospace industry.

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Moreover, Chinas robust patent portfolio in this domain ensures unhindered access to revolutionary satellite communication technology for domestic hi-tech companies, safeguarding against potential patent barriers or sanctions from the West.

In contrast, SpaceXs Starlink satellite constellation, while offering similar capabilities, operates in low-Earth orbit and primarily targets older 4G phones, highlighting divergent approaches to satellite communication technology.

As the global space race continues to evolve, the competition between Chinas Tiantong Project and SpaceXs Starlink promises to shape the future of satellite communication, with profound implications for connectivity worldwide.

(With inputs from agencies)
Elon Musk, in a bid to take on OpenAI and secure a sizeable portion of the infrastructure necessary for developing AI models, is looking for investors who can put up $3-4 billion in xAI. Musks fundraising plans could potentially value xAI at $18 billion post-funding round read more

Elon Musk was initially an investor in OpenAI. OpenAI says he left because he wanted more control of the startup than the founders were willing to part ways with, whereas Musk says he left because OpenAI deviated from their ways, and turned for-profit. Image Credit: AFP

Tech mogul Elon Musk the brains behind the X-linked AI chatbot Grok and xAI, is seeking to raise a staggering $4 billion in funding in hopes of taking on OpenAI and capturing a section of the tech infrastructure that is needed to run an AI company.

According to a Bloomberg report, Musk is trying to convince and court a few investors using special purpose vehicles (SPVs), allowing multiple venture capital firms and individuals to pool their investments into a single entity.

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While this approach offers collaborative investment opportunities, it comes with upfront fees of up to 5 per cent, along with ongoing management fees and interest. SPV structures allow different venture capital firms and individuals to invest together as a single entity.,

Musks ambitious fundraising plans could potentially value xAI at a jaw-dropping $18 billion post-funding round, with the company expecting to secure the capital within the next 23 weeks on a first-come, first-served basis.

Founded by Musk in March 2023 and officially launched in July of the same year, xAI is headquartered in the bustling tech hub of the San Francisco Bay Area. The company has set its sights high, aiming to unravel the mysteries of the universe.

In November, xAI unveiled its flagship product, the X-linked chatbot Grok, which claimed to have superior capabilities compared to ChatGPT, which has become the gold standard when it comes to text-based GenAI.

The xAI pitch to investors calls on Musks successful track record at Tesla and the AI models training on data sourced from his own microblogging network, X.

Behind the scenes, xAI employs a team of AI tutors spanning diverse fields, tasked with generating and curating top-tier data to train and refine its models.

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Despite its multibillion-dollar valuation, xAI remains a relatively lean operation, boasting just 10 full-time engineers and a modest fleet of between 5,000 and 10,000 GPUs, according to reports.

While xAI aims to challenge industry stalwarts with its open-source approach to AI chatbots, it faces stiff competition in a crowded marketplace, including rivals like OpenAIs ChatGPT, Antropics Claude, Microsofts Copilot, Googles Gemini, and Meta AI.

(With inputs from agencies)
Major politicians and officials in the current US administration have strongly urging President Biden to ban vehicles made in China. Even the White House has publicly stated that they are worried about the kind of equipment these Chinese cars and what kind of data they collect read more

In Feb this year, the Biden White House started investigating Chinese cars and the tech they use. Image Credit AFP

President Joe Biden is facing mounting pressure to enforce a permanent ban on Chinese-made cars entering the United States. In the latest development on getting Biden to ban Chinese cars, the Chair of the Senate Banking Committee, Senator Sherrod Brown, wrote to Biden, urging him to sign an executive order banning Chinese cars, before the elections.

Senator Brown is one among many government officials who have taken an ardent stance on the issue. Senator Brown has also labelled Chinese EVs particularly, as a dire threat to the American auto industry.

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We cannot allow China to bring its government-backed cheating to the American auto industry, Senator Brown said in a video on X.

Senator Brown also emphasized the need to combat Chinas government-backed businesses masquerading as independent companies. The senator, hailing from Ohio, a state renowned for its automotive production, is seeking re-election for a fourth term this November.

Senator Browns statement also echoes calls from others to impose significant tariffs to prevent Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) from infiltrating the US market. The urgency surrounding this issue was highlighted in February when the White House started an investigation into cars imported from China and what kind of national security risk they pose.

The White House, on several occasions, has also voiced concerns over the technology embedded in Chinese-made cars, especially EVs. They have also issued statements of the possibility of these cars, collecting sensitive data on drivers and passengers, thereby posing security risks.

Chinas position in the global automotive landscape, coupled with its ambition to become the leading exporter of vehicles, amplifies anxieties among US policymakers.

At the same time, American airlines have also urged the Biden administration to intervene in approving new flights between the US and China, citing Chinas anti-competitive policies that have been very detrimental to US carriers.

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The backdrop of these tensions is the ongoing trade dispute between the worlds two largest economies, which started back in 2018 with the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration. Despite changes in leadership, the US has maintained these tariffs.

(With inputs from agencies)
Russian hackers who broke into Microsofts and servers were actually able to access FBIs emails, along with several other government devices. Microsoft. Microsoft is a critical technology provider for the US government, has faced growing scrutiny over its security practices read more

Russian hackers have wreaked havoc on Microsoft and access critical and sensitive files that may been crucial to several US government agencies. Image Credit: Pexels

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has confirmed that Russian government-backed hackers, known as Midnight Blizzard or APT29, successfully stole emails from multiple US federal agencies in an ongoing cyberattack targeting Microsoft.

In a statement published on Thursday CISA revealed that the cyberattack, first disclosed by Microsoft in January, enabled the hackers to access federal government emails through a successful compromise of Microsoft corporate email accounts.

The cyberattack, which is being attributed to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), poses a significant risk to affected agencies, according to CISA. The agency issued a new emergency directive on April 2, requiring civilian government agencies to take immediate action to secure their email accounts in response to increased intrusions by Russian hackers.

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After providing affected federal agencies with a week to reset passwords and secure compromised systems, CISA made details of the emergency directive public.

Although CISA did not identify the specific federal agencies affected by the email theft, the urgency of the situation underscores the severity of the attack.

Microsoft, a critical technology provider for the US government, has faced growing scrutiny over its security practices following a series of intrusions by state-sponsored hackers.

In January, Microsoft disclosed that the Russian hacking group breached corporate email systems, including accounts belonging to senior leadership and employees in cybersecurity, legal, and other departments.

Subsequent investigations revealed that the hackers targeted additional organisations beyond Microsoft, including US government agencies.

Microsoft continues its efforts to expel the Russian hackers from its systems, describing the attack as ongoing. However, the company has not provided specific details on the progress of its remediation efforts since March.

The recent breach adds to concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in US government systems. An independent investigation by the US Cyber Safety Review Board attributed an earlier breach in 2023 to China government-backed hackers, citing security failures at Microsoft.

Furthermore, the US Department of Defense notified 20,000 individuals in February that their personal information was exposed online due to a misconfiguration of a Microsoft-hosted cloud email server.

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As the US government grapples with escalating cyber threats, the urgency to bolster cybersecurity measures and address vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure remains paramount.
Following Irans vow to punish Israel for an airstrike in Syria that killed a top general, the United States has assured ironclad support to Israel read more

Israel and the United States are preparing for an imminent Iranian attack that is expected over the weekend or early next week. The attack may be a missile barrage or drone strikes across Israel or a mixture of the two.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to punish Israel for the killing of Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, the top Iranian commander for operations in Syria and Lebanon. He was killed along with six other senior military and intelligence officers when an airstrike hit a building part of the Iranian diplomatic mission in Syrian capital Damascus on April 1. Iran blamed the strike on Israel.

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Following Irans vow to avenge the killing of Zahedi, the senior-most Iranian officer to be killed since the US assassination of famed General Qasem Soleimani in 2020, the US has assured ironclad support to Israel. On its part, Israel has also declared that an attack on Israel would me met with a retaliatory strike on the attackers soil.

An Iranian attack on Israel would be a first and will drag the two countries in a direct confrontation. Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas War in October 2023, Middle East has been on the edge and an Israel-Iran conflict, which is also expected to drag the US into it, would further destabilise the region.

As the US ropes in partners to press Iran to not escalate the situation while also bracing for an attack, here we describe the 10 ways in which Iran may attack Israel.

1. Ballistic missile strike from Iran

Iran has a large stock of missiles of various kinds. It has used ballistic missiles in the past in such revenge strikes.

In 2020, in response to Soleimanis killing, Iran launched up to 22 ballistic missiles to target US personnel and Iraqi partners in the countrys Kurdistan region. The missiles were reported to be launched from many locations in Iran and 11 of them struck Al-Asad Base in Iraq that housed US troops.

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2. Ballistic missile strikes from Iraq

As part of a strategy to keep the exchange of fire away from Iranian soil, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khameneis regime may choose to launch ballistic missiles from Iraq.

During 2018-19, there were reports that said Iran had housed missiles in Iraq. Notably, Iran maintains a significant influence in Iraqi affairs and has a large network of militias there that it supports.

Iran may seek to place long-range ballistic missiles in Iraq to attack Israel, according to The Jerusalem Post. The newspaper noted that this method would seek to replicate former Iraqi ruler Saddam Hussains tactic in 1991 when he launched attacks on Israel.

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3. New long-range ballistic missiles

Iran may also use its long-range and relatively new Kheibar Shekan ballistic missiles that it used in attacks in Syria in January, according to the report.

The missile reportedly has a range of 1,450 km and is supposed to have high-speed and precision-strike capabilities.

4. Joint drone and cruise missile attack

This may be the most anticipated medium of attack as Iran has developed a vast arsenal of drones that it has also exported to Russia for use against Ukraine. It is expected that a combination of drones and cruise missiles may be used to attack Israel. There is a precedent for it.

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In 2019, Iranian drones and missiles struck Saudi Arabias Abqaiq oil facility. The attacks emanated from Iraq and comprised seven missiles and 18 drones, according to Saudis.

5. Drones or missiles by Iraqs militias

Instead of using Irans regular military or the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the vastly influential Iranian armed force separate from the countrys regular military that reports directly to the Supreme Leader, Iran may also deploy non-state actors that it sponsors across the Middle East.

Throughout the region, Israel has a network of militias, comprising Gaza-based Hamas, Lebanon-based Hezbollah, Yemen-based Houthis, and numerous groups in Iraq. They are part of what Iran calls Axis of Resistance. They share Irans opposition to Israel.

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6. Syria-based groups sponsored by Iran

Iran may also resort to using armed groups based in Syria. Lebanon-based Hezbollah has a presence in Syria. The Jerusalem Post also reported that the IRGC also runs Fetemiyoun, a group of Afghan Shias, in Syria. The report said that both of these groups could be mobilised to attack Israel.

7. A joint attack by Irans proxies in Middle East

The report further said that Iran could deploy the various proxies in the region to mount a multi-front attack on Israel.

This is a particularly likely scenario as such a situation has almost been created multiple times. While Hamas has been fighting Israel in Gaza, Hezbollah has been clashing with Israel on a nearly-daily basis along the Lebanese border, and Yemen-based Houthis have also mounted attacks.

The report said that such a combined assault may drag Israel into a seven-front scenario.

Iran could seek to push several of its partners and proxies to carry out a multi-front attack. It has already attempted this during the current war on Israel. For instance, Iraqi militias have targeted Eilat, as did an Iranian-backed group in Syria in November. Hezbollah has fired thousands of missiles at Israel. The Houthis have launched cruise missiles, drones and also ballistic missiles. Iran seeks to ring Israel with this fire and has already successfully mobilised most of the components involved, noted Seth J Frantzman in an analysis.

8. Attack on Israel in other countries

To avoid a direct confrontation with Israel, Iran may also opt to strike Israeli interests, such as diplomatic missions or Jewish places, in other countries.

There are precedents for such incidents. In 1992, a bombing at the Israeli embassy in Argentina killed 29, which Israel blamed on Iran-backed Hezbollah. Then, in 2012, Israeli diplomats were targeted in India, Georgia, and Thailand, which Israel also blamed on Iran.

9. Attacks on Kurds in Iraq

In a rather unlikely target, Iran may also choose to strike on Kurds in Iraq whom Iran has linked with Israel in recent years, according to the report. The Kurds are also US partners in the region.

10. Bringing in Hezbollah in war with Israel

While Hezbollah has clashed with Israel on a nearly-daily basis since the beginning of Israel-Hamas War, it has stayed out of a full-fledged war. Iran may seek to change that and push Hezbollah into a proper war with Israel. This would mean engaging Israel on a second front at a time when the country is largely isolated internationally and support for its war in Gaza is at an all-time low.

Hezbollah is the strongest armed group in the region. It is reported to have around 100,000 fighters with an arsenal of around 100,000 rockets.
A group of 37 tourists in China found themselves held captive in a mattress shop in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan province because they refused to purchase any products read more

A group of 37 tourists in China were held captive in a shop after refusing to buy its products | Source: AP/Representative

In a shocking incident that has reignited concerns over forced shopping experiences for tourists in China, a group of 37 holidaymakers found themselves held captive in a mattress shop in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan province.

The tourists, hailing from Liaoning province in northeastern China, had embarked on a journey to the southwestern region of the country, expecting a leisurely holiday experience.

However, their trip took an unexpected turn when they refused to purchase bedding products, triggering a confrontation with shop staff that lasted for several hours, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP).

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The ordeal, which unfolded on March 26, came to light through a viral video captured by one of the trapped tourists.

In the footage, members of the group can be seen sitting and lying on the shops beds while salespeople stand guard, preventing their departure.

This is the shop that sells latex mattresses in Xishuangbanna. We arrived at noon and were still here, SCMP quoted the tourist who filmed the clip. The group of 37 tourists is not allowed to leave, she added

Local authorities launch investigation

Following widespread outrage on social media platforms, local authorities launched an investigation into the incident.

According to SCMP, the shop responsible for the detention was identified as Taisi Dika Sleep Technology Company, and it was revealed that the tour group was organised by the Liaoning Youde International Travel Service, with assistance from Faxian Zhilv travel agency.

Consequently, Taisi Dika was ordered to halt its operations, and the tour guide was fined 10,000 yuan (approximately 1,18,000 INR) for his role in the incident. Investigations into the travel agencies involved are ongoing.

This incident has sparked a wave of public condemnation, with many questioning the legality and ethics of such practices.

It sounds so horrible, SCMP quoted one online observer. Is this an illegal detention? another asked.

Yunnan becoming hotbed for similar incidents

Previous incidents of tourists being coerced into shopping during tours in Yunnan have been reported, indicating a systemic issue.

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In February, a similar incident occurred where a family of five was ejected from a tour bus after refusing to purchase a gold bracelet at the exorbitant price of 50,000 yuan (approximately 6,00,000 INR).

Another incident, captured on video, surfaced in August last year, where a tour guide in southwestern China can be seen threatening tourists and bullying them into shopping on an eco-tour, reported SCMP.

What is forced shopping?

Forced shopping, also known as tourist trap or shopping coercion, refers to a practice where tourists are pressured or manipulated into making purchases they did not intend or want to make.

In some cases, tour agencies have to lower the price to attract customers. Then they compensate their economic loss by forcing tourists to shop.

Some common tactics used in forced shopping include detaining tourists, misrepresentation, high-pressure sales tactics, exorbitant pricing and group pressure.
More than 30 years after the deadly attacks on Israels embassy and a Jewish center in Buenos Aires, an Argentine court on Thursday blamed Iran for the terror incidents and designated it a terrorist state read more

A man walks over the rubble left after a bomb exploded at the Argentinian Israeli Mutual Association (AMIA in Spanish) in Buenos Aires, 18 July 1994. AFP File

More than 30 years after the deadly attacks on Israels embassy and a Jewish center in Buenos Aires, an Argentine court on Thursday blamed Iran for the terror incidents and designated it a terrorist state.

According to an AFP report, citing local media, the courts ruling determined that Iran orchestrated the 1992 bombing of Israels embassy and the 1994 bombing of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish center.

Additionally, the court implicated the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement, labeling the AMIA attack  Argentinas deadliest  as a crime against humanity, as detailed in court documents cited by the media.

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Hezbollah carried out an operation that responded to a political, ideological and revolutionary design under the mandate of a government, of a State, AFP quoted Carlos Mahiques, one of the three judges who issued the decision, telling Radio Con Vos, referencing Iran.

In 1992, a bomb attack on the Israeli embassy left 29 dead. Two years later, a truck loaded with explosives drove into the AMIA Jewish center and detonated, leaving 85 dead and 300 injured.

The 1994 assault has never been claimed or solved, but Argentina and Israel have long suspected Lebanons Shiite Hezbollah group carried it out at Irans request.

Prosecutors charged top Iranian officials with ordering the attack. Tehran has denied any involvement.

Argentina has the largest Jewish community in Latin America, with some 300,000 members.

It also is home to immigrant communities from the Middle East - from Syria and Lebanon in particular.

The judges ruled Thursday that the AMIA attack was a crime against humanity, and put blame on then-president Ali Akbar Hashemi Bahramaie Rafsanjani as well as other Iranian officials and Hezbollah members.

The decision was welcomed by the president of the Delegation of Israelite Associations of Argentina (DAIA), Jorge Knoblovits.

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According to AFP report, he told Radio Mitre that the ruling is very important, because it enables the victims to go to the International Criminal Court.

Former Argentine president Carlos Menem, who died in 2021 and was the president at the time of both attacks, was tried for covering up the AMIA bombing, but ultimately acquitted.

His former intelligence chief Hugo Anzorreguy was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in jail for his role in obstructing the probe.

He was among some dozen defendants who faced a slew of corruption and obstruction of justice charges in the case, including the former judge who led the investigation into the attack, Juan Jose Galeano, who in 2019 was jailed for six years for concealment and violation of evidence.

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With inputs from agencies
China firmly opposes the relevant countries manipulating bloc politics, and firmly opposes any behaviour that provokes or lays plans for opposition, and hurts other countries strategic security and interests, said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning read more

China of Friday defended its actions in the South China Sea as appropriate and lawful, and beyond reproach and criticised the United States, Japan and the Philippines after President Joe Biden hosted a trilateral summit in Washington.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, Chinas actions in the East China Sea and South China Sea are appropriate and lawful, and beyond reproach.

She said that China firmly opposes the relevant countries manipulating bloc politics and those who hurt other countries strategic security and interests.

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China firmly opposes the relevant countries manipulating bloc politics, and firmly opposes any behaviour that provokes or lays plans for opposition, and hurts other countries strategic security and interests, Mao said.

President Biden on Thursday pledged to defend the Philippines from any attack in the South China Sea.

The United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, the US president said on Thursday as he met the Philippines president Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida.

Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty, added Biden.

The summit at the White House came amid repeated confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the disputed waterway that have raised fears of wider conflict.

We firmly oppose engaging in closed cliques that exclude others in the region, Mao said.

Japan and the Philippines can of course develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not invite factional opposition into the region, much less engage in trilateral cooperation at the cost of hurting another countrys interests.

If these are not wanton smears and attacks on China, what are they? she asked.

Beijing claims almost the entirety of the South China Sea, brushing aside competing claims from several Southeast Asian nations including the Philippines.

With inputs from agencies
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo said Russias aim with the alleged interference is to let more pro-Russia candidates into the European Parliament read more

Belgium has launched an investigation into alleged Russian interference in the upcoming European Parliament elections.

The European Parliament (EP) comprises 705 members which are directly elected by the European Unions (EU) 27-member countries every five years.

Countries like Russia and China have long been accused of meddling in domestic affairs and politics of other countries such as the United States. Their main objective is to destabilise the polity of their target geography and attempt to get candidates sympathetic to them win polls.

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Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo said Russias aim with the alleged interference is to let more pro-Russia candidates into the European Parliament, according to BBC. He further said that Belgian intelligence had found that spy networks were operating in Belgium and many other European countries.

The investigation shows that Moscow has approached European members of parliament, [and] has also paid European members of parliament in order to promote a Russian agenda here, said De Croo.

Czech Republic, Poland also probing Russian interference

In addition to Belgium, Czech Republic and Poland are also investigating such alleged Russian meddling in EUs elections.

The Czech government had recently said that it had broken up a pro-Russia website, Voice of Europe, which both Czech and Polish authorities said was funded by Russia and was spreading Russian propaganda and funneling money to pro-Russia politicians.

The Czech found that Voice of Europe paid politicians from Germany, France, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Hungary to make pro-Russia remarks to help influence the upcoming EP elections scheduled in June, said the BBC report.

Stressing on his responsibility for free and fair elections, De Croo said, We cannot allow this type of Russian menace in our midst.

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Russian interference probe comes after warning of Chinese meddling

The report of Belgian probe into alleged Russian interference has come days after tech major Microsoft warned that China will use artificial intelligence (AI) to disrupt elections in India, South Korea, and the United States this year.

In its warning, Microsoft said that China has already conducted a dry run for such election disruption in the Taiwanese presidential election in January. The Chinese had reportedly run a campaign against William Lai of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), a candidate deeply resented by the Chinese government. Lai ultimately won the election.

The warning said that China is expected to be joined by North Korea in such meddling.
The proclamation from the American commander-in-chief came as he hosted the first trilateral summit with Manila and Tokyo read more

Amid the brewing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, US President Joe Biden pledged to defend the Phillippines from any sort of attacks in the South China Sea.

The proclamation from the American commander-in-chief came as he hosted the first trilateral summit with Manila and Tokyo. The declaration from Biden can be considered a stern warning for China whose growing assertiveness in the region has raised the alarms.

The United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, the US president said on Thursday as he met the Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, The Guardian reported.

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The trilateral summit organised at the White House came after a confrontation between Beijing and Manilla intensified in the disputed waterways.

Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty, he added. The POTUS echoed the same sentiment when he met the Philippine president at the White House last year.

It is important to note that China claims almost the entirety of the South China Sea and has time and again brushed aside competing claims made by several Southeast Asian nations including the Phillippines.

An historic meeting

The increasing tensions in the region in recent years have prompted Biden to boost alliances in the region. As they conducted talks at the grand East Room of the US presidential residence, the three world leaders hailed the meeting and called it historic.

The three leaders reiterated that their alliance is the bedrock of peace and democracy in the Asia-Pacific region, The Guardian reported.

During the meeting, Kishida said that multi-layered cooperation is essential and that todays meeting will make history. The 81-year-old president also held separate talks with Marcos shortly after the meeting.

The joint summit came a day after the US President hosted a lavish state visit to the Japanese premier. During the grand ceremony, the two world leaders unveiled a historic upgrade in defence ties that aimed at Chinas growing aggressiveness in the region.

Shortly after historic military agreements were announced, China slammed both the United States and Japan and said that they had smeared their reputation during this visit.

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Chinas Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Mao Ning said Washington and Tokyo had attacked China on Taiwan and maritime issues, grossly interfered in Chinas internal affairs, and seriously violated the basic norms governing international relations.

With inputs from agencies
Asking his counterparts from China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and European countries to convince Iran to avoid escalating conflict, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said such escalation is not in anyones interest' read more

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China and European countries to use influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel.

During a phone call, Blinken insisted the foreign ministers convince Iran to avoid escalating the conflict, emphasising that such escalation is not in anyones interest, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said.

Earlier, US intelligence suggested an imminent attack on Israeli assets by Tehran following an alleged airstrike on the Syrian embassy on April 2 that killed top Iranian military officials, including a senior member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps elite Quds Force. Later, Iran vowed to retaliate with a serious response.

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US says it has no involvement in Israeli strike

The United States has been on high alert about possible retaliatory strikes and has communicated to Iran that it did not have any role in the Syrian embassy attack.

We communicated to Iran that the US had no involvement in the strike that happened in Damascus and we have warned Iran not to use this attack as a pretext to escalate further in the region or to attack US facilities or personnel, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.

On Thursday, the US issued an embassy notice restricting the movements of its diplomats in Israel until further notice over security fears.

US vows ironclad support to Israel

President Joe Biden who has recently been critical of Israel over its Gaza War, has promised ironclad support earlier this week after Iran threatened to launch a significant attack on Israel.

As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israels security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again: ironclad. Were going to do all we can to protect Israels security, Biden had said during a conference with Japanese PM Kishida.

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Blinken had also spoken by telephone with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to reiterate our strong support for Israel against these threats, Miller said.
Following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus accusations in September of a potential role for Indian operatives in the June 18 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, ties between India and Canada became severely strained read more

A spokesman for the Canadian High Commission stated on Friday that the reduction in the number of Indian employees was required in light of the country's shrinking Canadian workforce Image Courtesy AFP

Many Indian employees of Canadas missions in India have been trimmed, following months of pressure from New Delhi to decrease Ottawas diplomatic workforce.

A spokesman for the Canadian High Commission stated on Friday that the reduction in the number of Indian employees was required in light of the countrys shrinking Canadian workforce.

I can confirm that the Government of Canada has implemented some staff reductions across our network of missions in India, the official said.

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The decision to implement reductions across our network of missions in India was sadly necessary given the reduction of Canadian staff available to effectively manage and maintain in-country operations.

The spokesperson said the high commission expresses its sincere gratitude for the resilience, dedication and service of its local staff in India.

Canada will continue to deliver core services to Canadians in India, including consular support and for trade and business development so that the citizens of our two countries can continue to benefit from the longstanding ties between Canadians and Indians, the official said.

We can also confirm that Canadas visa application centres in India are operating as normal, the spokesperson added.

Following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus accusations in September of a potential role for Indian operatives in the June 18 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, ties between India and Canada became severely strained.

India dismissed Trudeaus accusations as absurd.

India requested that Ottawa reduce its diplomatic presence in the nation to maintain parity a few days following Trudeaus accusations.

Canada then removed 41 diplomats from India, along with their families.
The relations between India and China have been frozen except for trade ties ever since the eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong Tso (lake) area. read more

Great positive progress has been made in resolving the border standoff between China and India as both sides maintain close communication, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday.

The relations between the two countries have been largely frozen, except for trade ties, since the eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong Tso area.

To address the standoff, the two sides have engaged in 21 rounds of corps commander-level talks so far. According to the Chinese military, both parties have agreed to disengage from four points, including the Galwan Valley, the Pangong Lake, Hot Springs, and Jianan Daban (Gogra).

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These remarks from the foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning provide additional clarity on Chinas response to Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent statement. In his statement, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of ties with Beijing for New Delhi and called for urgent resolution of the prolonged situation at the borders.

In an interview with Newsweek magazine, Prime Minister Modi expressed hope that through positive and constructive bilateral engagement at the diplomatic and military levels, the two countries will be able to restore and sustain peace and tranquillity at their borders.

About the border issue, I can tell you that China and India are remaining in close communication through diplomatic and military channels and great positive progress has been made, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao told a media briefing here responding to a question on Modis interview to Newsweek. We also believe that a healthy China and India relations serve the interests of the two countries, she said.

China hopes that India will work in the same direction with China to properly manage the differences and promote the bilateral relations forward on a healthy stable track, Mao said. This is the second time in as many days that China has reacted to Modis interview.

I believe that we need to urgently address the prolonged situation on our borders so that the abnormality in our bilateral interactions can be put behind us, Modi said in his interview. Stable and peaceful relations between India and China are important for not just our two countries but the entire region and world, he said. Mao while responding to a question on Modis interview on Thursday said that China noted Prime Minister Modis remarks.

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Sound and stable China-India relations serve the interests of both countries and are conducive to peace and development in the region and beyond, she said. On the boundary question, Mao on Thursday reiterated Chinas oft-repeated stand that it does not represent the entirety of China-India relations, and it should be placed appropriately in bilateral relations and managed properly.

However, India has maintained that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal. Mao said both countries maintain close communication through diplomatic and military channels on handling issues related to the border situation and have made positive progress.

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We hope that India will work with China, approach the bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, keep building trust and engage in dialogue and cooperation, and seek to handle differences appropriately to put the relationship on a sound and stable track, she said.

India is pressing the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the border remains tense.

With inputs from PTI.
Zhao Leji, the third highest-ranking official in Beijing and a member of the powerful Standing Committee of the Chinese Communist Partys Politburo, is currently on a goodwill visit to North Korea as the two nations commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations. read more

In this photo provided on April 12, 2024, by the North Korean government, Choe Ryong Hae, right, vice-chairman of the central committee of the Workers' Party of North Korea, talks with Zhao Leji, left, chairman of the National Peoples Congress of China during a reception, at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang, North Korea, on April 11, 2024. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

In one of the most significant high-level meetings between the two allies in recent years, Chinese President Xi Jinping has dispatched a senior official to Pyongyang to reassert Chinas deep friendship with North Korea, according to North Korean state media reports on Friday.

Zhao Leji, the third highest-ranking official in Beijing and a member of the powerful Standing Committee of the Chinese Communist Partys Politburo, is currently on a goodwill visit to North Korea as the two nations commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations.

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The move came after concern rose in Beijing and Washington over Kim Jong Uns blossoming alliance with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

As North Koreas most crucial economic benefactor and diplomatically, China has consistently opposed US-led efforts, alongside Russia, to impose stricter sanctions on Kim Jong Uns regime at the UN Security Council in response to its heightened weapons testing activities.

During his visit to Pyongyang, Zhao met with his North Korean counterpart, Choe Ryong Hae, to discuss exchange and cooperation in all fields, including politics, economy, and culture, as reported by KCNA.

The two also exchanged views on unspecified regional and international issues of mutual concerns, KCNA said.

Zhao is one of the seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee, the Communist Partys top leadership body headed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Zhaos visit to North Korea marked the first bilateral exchange involving a Chinese Politburo Standing Committee member since the coronavirus pandemic started. In 2019, the two countries held two summit meetings between Xi and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Observers say North Korea and China are expected to hold a number of exchanges this year to mark the 75th year since they established diplomatic ties.

North Korea has been seeking to boost its cooperation with China and Russia in the face of a standoff with the United States and South Korea over the Norths advancing nuclear program.

China, North Koreas biggest aid benefactor, is believed to have long provided clandestine assistance to North Korea in violation of international sanctions.

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Kim traveled to Russia in September for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The U.S., South Korea and others accuse North Korea of supplying conventional weapons for Russias war in Ukraine in return for advanced weapons technologies and other support.

With inputs from agencies.
According to the US State Department, Blinken used the call to request that Beijing use its clout to stop Iran from attacking Israel. Tehrans potential for retribution has increased since an Israeli strike on April 1 destroyed an Iranian diplomatic facility in Damascus read more

The United States has repeatedly made public appeals for China to do more to address the crisis, including through pressure on Iran, which supports Hamas Image Courtesy Reuters

Following a phone conversation between US Ambassador Antony Blinken and Chinas top diplomat, Wang Yi, on Friday, called on the US to take a constructive role in the Middle East.

According to the US State Department, Blinken used the call to request that Beijing use its clout to stop Iran from attacking Israel. Tehrans potential for retribution has increased since an Israeli strike on April 1 destroyed an Iranian diplomatic facility in Damascus.

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China verified the calls authencity on Friday, stating that Wang expressed Chinas strong condemnation of the attack and emphasized the need to protect Irans and Syrias sovereignty as well as diplomatic institutions inviolable right to security.

China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue and contribute to cooling down the situation, Chinas foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning added.

The United States side in particular should play a constructive role.

Irans clerical leadership has vowed to strike back after the attack, which killed seven members of the Islamic Republics elite Revolutionary Guards, including two generals.

The United States has repeatedly made public appeals for China to do more to address the crisis, including through pressure on Iran, which supports Hamas.

Beijing in turn has criticised the United States as biased toward Israel.

This round of escalation is the latest manifestation of the spillover from the Gaza conflict, and it is imperative that the Gaza conflict be put to rest as soon as possible, Mao said Friday, adding Beijing was calling for an immediate ceasefire.

President Joe Biden said Wednesday that US support for Israels security was ironclad, despite his criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus conduct of the war in Gaza.

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(With agency inputs)
Former US President Donald Trump has repeatedly blamed migrants who have come to the US illegally for fueling violent crime. However, what Trump says and what the facts say are at odds read more

Immigration, especially illegal immigration, has become a defining issue ahead of the 2024 United States Presidential Elections. Former US President Donald Trump, who is also the presumed presidential nominee of the Republicans, has ramped up his rhetoric on the immigration topic.

Trump links illegal immigrants to crime

During his campaign, Trump has repeatedly blamed migrants who have come to the US illegally for fueling violent crime. The ex-President, himself indicted in four cases and facing 88 felony charges, has weaponised instances of crimes by illegals to argue for stricter border controls.

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He has not shied away from dehumanising illegal immigrants, calling them animals when talking about alleged criminal acts. He has also accused them of poisoning the blood of our country, a phrase that critics say echoes Nazi rhetoric.

What recent studies show

What Trump says and what the facts say are at odds. Several studies have shown that immigrants, whether in the country legally or illegally, are not more likely to engage in criminality than Americans born in the US.

For instance, a 2024 working paper published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, titled Law-Abiding Immigrants: The Incarceration Gap Between Immigrants and the US-born, 18702020, found that immigrants had lower imprisonment rates than US-born people over a 150-year period. The research, led by Stanford economics professor Ran Abramitzky, used official US Census data, Reuters reported.

In 2020, a study led by Michael Light, a Sociology professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explored the crime rates between undocumented immigrants, legal immigrants, and native-born US citizens in Texas. The report found a lower felony arrest rate for immigrants in the US illegally compared to legal immigrants and native-born US citizens. The authors concluded that there was no evidence of increasing criminality among immigrants.

There was another comprehensive study titled Immigration and Crime: Assessing a Contentious Issue published in 2018. This study, looked at over 50 previous studies to analyse the link between immigration and crime between 1994 and 2014. They did not find any significant correlation.

Its not just academia, either. Libertarian think tank Cato Institute has published multiple reports that show immigrants in the country commit crimes at lower rates than the native-born.

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The Center for Immigration Studies (CIS), a research group that supports lower levels of immigration, argues that researchers undercounted crimes committed by immigrants who are in the country illegally, using data from the Texas Department of Public Safety.

However, in its own study in 2009, CIS found there is no clear evidence that immigrants commit crimes at higher or lower rates than others.

Is the trend changing?

It is important to note that the data used to calculate crime rates is usually outdated by several years, which means that it may not accurately reflect current or future trends. Despite this, certain studies have discovered consistent patterns over long periods of time.

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Michael Light, a professor from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has stated that research conducted in the United States does not support the notion that immigrants are more likely to commit crimes.

Of course foreign-born individuals have committed crimes, Reuters quoted Light as saying in an interview. But do foreign-born individuals commit crime at a disproportionately higher rate than native-born individuals? The answer is pretty conclusively no, he said.

With inputs from agencies
Terrorists affiliated to the two Palestinian factions, according to the European Union, committed widespread sexual and gender-based violence in a systematic manner, using it as a weapon of war. These fighters are already on the EUs blacklist for terrorism read more

According to Israeli authorities, 1,170 persons died as a result of Hamas's unprecedented strike against Israel on October 7. The majority of the casualties were civilians. The attack also started the Gaza conflict Image Courtesy AFP

The armed factions of Islamic Jihad and Hamas were subject to sanctions by the European Union on Friday due to widespread sexual violence that occurred during the October 7 attacks against Israel.

Terrorists affiliated to the two Palestinian factions, according to the European Union, committed widespread sexual and gender-based violence in a systematic manner, using it as a weapon of war. These fighters are already on the EUs blacklist for terrorism.

The EU states came to an agreement that included the imposition of sanctions, and as a result, violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank will now be banned from the bloc.

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According to Israeli authorities, 1,170 persons died as a result of Hamass unprecedented strike against Israel on October 7. The majority of the casualties were civilians. The attack also started the Gaza conflict.

The rape and subsequent murder of female minors, mutilation of corpses as well as genital mutilation were among the atrocities committed by Hamas fighters, according to the EU.

Additionally, it charged the attackers with targeted abduction of women and girls.

The health ministry of Gaza reports that at least 33,634 Palestinians have died as a result of Israels retaliatory offensive, the majority of whom were women and children. At least 89 deaths from the previous day were included in the ministrys updated toll released on Friday.
The Middle East is on the edge as an Iranian attack on Israel is expected in the coming days in retaliation to an airstrike in Syria that killed a top Iranian general read more

France on Friday told its citizens to not travel to Israel, Iran, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

AFP quoted the French government as warning its citizens to imperatively refrain from travel in the coming days to these places.

While there are fears of a direct confrontation between Israel and Iran in the coming days, the situation in Lebanon is also tense as Iran-backed Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon, has clashed on a nearly-daily basis with Israel since October 7, 2023. Israel has frequently conducted strikes in southern part of the country to eliminate Hezbollah sites and leaders.

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French Foreig Minister Stephane Sejourne also asked that family members of French diplomats in Iran be evacuated and no French officials be sent on missions to Israel, Iran, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories, according to the report.

Iran has vowed to punish Israel for an airstrike on its diplomatic mission in Syrian capital Damascus that killed a top Iranian general. Iran said Israel had carried out the strike. For the past two days, reports have said that the US and Israeli governments have assessed that the Iranian attack is imminent and may take place over the weekend or in the next few days.

The strike in Damascus had killed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi and six other senior Iranian military and intelligence officers. Zahedi was the top commander of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) who headed IRGCs Quds Forces operations in Syria and Lebanon. The IRGC is the vastly influential Iranian armed force thats separate from the countrys regular military and reports directly to the Supreme Leader of Iran. The Quds Force is the IRGCs military and intelligence wing that looks after its covert foreign operations.

In addition to France, the United States has also restricted the travel of its embassy staffers within Israel. The embassy personnel have been told to not go outside of the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Beersheba areas out of an abundance of caution.

In the wake of the Iranian threats, US President Joe Biden has assured Israel of ironclad support. The Biden administration has roped in regional partners Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq to press Iran to not escalate. It has also reached out to China to press Iran for de-escalation.
The resolution, introduced by Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar in the House of Representatives on Wednesday, reads that despite their positive contributions to the US, Hindu Americans face stereotypes and disinformation about their heritage and symbols, and have been the targets of bullying in schools and on college campuses, as well as discrimination, hate speech, and bias-motivated crimes read more

Prominent Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar has introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives condemning Hinduphobia, anti-Hindu bigotry, hate and intolerance.

The resolution, which was introduced on Wednesday and has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, reads that despite their positive contributions to the United States, Hindu Americans face stereotypes and disinformation about their heritage and symbols, and have been the targets of bullying in schools and on college campuses, as well as discrimination, hate speech, and bias-motivated crimes.

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The FBIs Hate Crimes Statistics Report reveals a concerning trend: anti-Hindu hate crimes, particularly targeting mandirs and individuals, are increasing annually. Concurrently, theres a regrettable rise in Hinduphobia within American society, as highlighted in the resolution.

Recognising the significant contributions of Hindu Americans, who have immigrated to the United States from various corners of the globe since the 1900s, the resolution emphasises their diverse racial, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds. The nation has greatly benefited from their contributions across all sectors of the economy and industries, it added.

Recently, Indian-American Congresspersons Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, Thanedar, Ami Bera, and Pramila Jayapal penned a letter to the Department of Justice. They requested a briefing to gain insights into the status of investigations regarding a troubling surge in vandalism incidents at places of worship nationwide, including Hindu temples. Their aim is to better understand the existing coordination among local agencies, the FBI, and the Civil Rights Division in law enforcement efforts.

Attacks at mandirs from New York to California have contributed to increased collective anxiety among Hindu Americans. Leaders from these impacted communities have expressed there are unfortunately no leads on suspects, leaving many to continue to live in fear and intimidation. Our communities remain concerned about law enforcement coordination regarding these bias-motivated crimes, and they are left wondering if there is appropriate federal oversight to ensure equal protection under the law, said the letter dated March 29.

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The number of incidents and the closeness of the timing of incidents raise troubling questions about linkages and the intent behind them. It takes relatively few coordinated acts of hate to create fear nationally within a community that has often been marginalised or neglected, and we must work collaboratively to combat hate against all religious, ethnic, racial, and cultural minorities in America.

We therefore request that you provide us with an understanding of what the Departments strategy is specifically concerning hate crimes targeting Hindus in the United States, said the letter.

Khanderao Kand, Chief of Policy and Strategy from the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies said that in the first quarter of this year, there has been a sudden spike in vandalism as well as thefts in temples in America intimidating devotees.

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On the background of local officials often failing to investigate the cases to find culprits, we thank the Indian-American House of Representatives for asking the FBI and DOJ to investigate. We hope that the FBI/DOJ will investigate to find any campaign or conspiracy that exists behind such attacks to assure peace-loving Indian diaspora / South Asians about their safety and freedom of religion, he said.

With inputs from agencies
The European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR) stated in a statement that the case aims to revoke the export licences issued by the German government for arms deliveries to Israel read more

Israel has launched a relentless military offensive on the Gaza Strip since the unprecedented attack by Hamas terrorists on October 7 Image Courtesy Reuters

An NGO on behalf of five Gaza-based Palestinians claimed on Friday that they had filed a formal complaint in Berlin against the German government for allegedly supplying Israel with weapons.

The European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR) stated in a statement that the case aims to revoke the export licences issued by the German government for arms deliveries to Israel.

The Berlin administrative court acknowledged receiving the complaint late on Thursday, according to a spokeswoman. The source further stated that the five plaintiffs reside in various areas of the Gaza Strip, including Rafah.

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According to the spokeswoman, the Palestinians are attempting to halt shipments of anti-tank weaponry that have not yet been authorized by challenging the authorization already granted for the delivery of such weapons.

The economy ministry is the target of the complaint; it has two weeks to address it.

The five Palestinians have all had family members killed in Israeli missile attacks since Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7 set off the war, according to the ECCHR.

The plaintiffs say Berlin is failing to fulfil its obligations under international law, including the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention.

Germany cannot remain true to its values if it exports weapons to a war in which serious violations of international humanitarian law are evident, said Wolfgang Kaleck, general secretary of the ECCHR.

Germany is the second biggest arms exporter to Israel after the US, accounting for 30 percent of imports between 2019 and 2023, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

Berlin is facing a case in the International Court of Justice in which Nicaragua says it is in breach of the UN Genocide Convention, set up after the Holocaust.

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On Tuesday, Berlins representatives insisted that Germany supplied arms only on the basis of detailed scrutiny that far exceeds the requirements of international law.

Israel has launched a relentless military offensive on the Gaza Strip since the unprecedented attack by Hamas terrorists on October 7.

Around 1,160 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the Hamas attack, according to Israeli official figures.

After that, Israel pledged to destroy Hamas, the organization in charge of the Gaza Strip. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that over 33,000 people have perished as a result, the most of them civilians.

(With agency inputs)
According to the Israeli military, Mohammad Omar Daraghmeh, the leader of Hamas infrastructure in the Jordan Valleys Tubas district, was slain in a gunfight with security personnel. It said that several armaments and military-style gear, including automatic guns, were discovered inside his car read more

Unverified videos that have gone viral on social media show locals calling for assistance while gunshots could be heard and thick smoke could be seen rising from a burning vehicle Image Courtesy Reuters

Two Palestinians, including a member of Hamas armed wing, were shot dead by Israeli troops during raids in the occupied West Bank on Friday. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, an Israeli settler rampage near Ramallah claimed the life of at least one individual.

According to the Israeli military, Mohammad Omar Daraghmeh, the leader of Hamas infrastructure in the Jordan Valleys Tubas district, was slain in a gunfight with security personnel. It said that several armaments and military-style gear, including automatic guns, were discovered inside his car.

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Hamas verified that Daraghmeh had died and that he had been a part of its armed Al Qassam Brigades.

Another man was slain by Israeli soldiers during a raid in the Al-Fara refugee camp in Tubas, according to the official Palestinian news agency WAFA. Notwithstanding the mans passing, Hamas did not recognize him as a member.

The military claimed that when Palestinians threw explosive devices at them, the forces conducting the operation opened fire, killing one guy who was allegedly trying to assault them.

After Hamas-led attacks on Israels southern communities and military posts on October 7, Israel began an unremitting assault on Gaza and increased military raids in the West Bank.

Later on Friday, scores of Jewish settlers were reportedly tearing through the town of al-Mughayyer, which is close to the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah. Residents reported seeing one person shot dead in this incident, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Whether he was shot by Israeli soldiers or settlers was not immediately apparent.

At least ten individuals were hurt, the majority by live fire, according to the Palestine Red Crescent, and some ambulances attempting to get to the scene were fired at.

Unverified videos that have gone viral on social media show locals calling for assistance while gunshots could be heard and thick smoke could be seen rising from a burning vehicle.

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Roadblocks were erected, according to the Israeli military and police, and a search was initiated for a 14-year-old Jewish Jerusalem resident who had vanished in the vicinity.

Nabil Abu Rudeineh, the spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, denounced the Israeli attack on Friday and called for immediate international assistance, especially from the US.

According to data from the Palestinian Health Ministry, at least 460 Palestinians have died in the West Bank from Israeli forces or settlers since the start of the Gaza conflict, some of them were armed combatants from extremist organizations.

According to an Israeli assessment, Palestinians in the West Bank have killed at least 13 Israelis during that time, including two Israeli military personnel.
An Iranian attack on Israel is considered imminent in retaliation to the killing of a top general in an airstrike in Syria read more

A ship-mounted version of the Iron Dome missile defence system intercepted an apparent drone that entered Israeli airspace near the southernmost city of Eilat just before midnight on Monday. (Representative Photo) File image/Reuters

Lebanon-based Hezbollah on Friday evening launched dozens of rockets into Israel amid threats of an imminent attack on the country from Iran.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Israeli military said around 40 rockets were launched into the country from the neighbouring Lebanon. It said some of these rockets were intercepted by Israeli air defence systems.

The IDF further said, The IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted two Hezbollah explosive UAVs that crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory earlier this evening.

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Approx. 40 launches were identified crossing from Lebanese territory, some of which were intercepted.



The IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted 2 Hezbollah explosive UAVs that crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory earlier this evening. pic.twitter.com/3iAVnEupcO  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 12, 2024

Following the killing of a top Iranian general in an airstrike on April 1, Iran has repeatedly vowed to take revenge. The US and Israeli intelligence assessment says that an Iranian attack on Israel is likely on the weekend or early next week.

Visuals shared on the social media showed the rockets being intercepted by Israeli air defence systems.

LEBANON: At least 50 rockets fired from the southern part of the country toward northern Israel. pic.twitter.com/zBwbICbIF3  Hamdah Salhut (@hamdahsalhut) April 12, 2024

Hezbollah is sponsored by Iran and is the largest armed group in the region that shares Irans opposition to Israel. It has clashed with Israel on a nearly-daily basis since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas War. While Hamas has been fighting with Israel in the Gaza Strip, Hezbollah has tied Israel along the border in the countrys north but has stopped short of escalating the situation to a full-fledged war.

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Hezbollah acknowledged the attack and said it launched dozens of Katyusha rockets at Israeli artillery positions on Friday in response to Israeli strikes in the south, according to a statement carried by AFP.

A combined attack from Iranian proxies in the region, including the likes of Hezbollah, Yemen-based Houthis, and terrorist organisations like Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), is considered to be among the various options that Iran may exercise to attack Israel.
Located in the Khyber districts border town of Landi Kotal Bazaar, the Khyber Temple had been gradually disappearing over time. The Dawn News claims that work at the property began approximately ten to fifteen days ago read more

Representatives from several administrative divisions either denied knowing about the Hindu temple's existence or asserted that the building was proceeding in compliance with the law

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has seen the demolition of an ancient Hindu temple that was closed since 1947 when its original occupants relocated to India in favor of the construction of a commercial complex. The temple was located close to the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Located in the Khyber districts border town of Landi Kotal Bazaar, the Khyber Temple had been gradually disappearing over time. The Dawn News claims that work at the property began approximately ten to fifteen days ago.

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Representatives from several administrative divisions either denied knowing about the Hindu temples existence or asserted that the building was proceeding in compliance with the law.

Claiming that there was a historical temple in the main Landi Kotal Bazaar, leading tribal journalist Ibrahim Shinwari, hailing from Landi Kotal, said: The temple was located in the centre of the Landi Kotal bazaar, which was closed in 1947 after the local Hindu families migrated to India. It was partially damaged by some clerics and seminarians in 1992 following the demolition of the Babri Masjid at Ayodhya in India.

Recalling that as a child, he heard many stories about the temple from his forefathers, the journalist said, There is no doubt in it that there was a temple named Khyber Temple in Landi Kotal. Haroon Sarabdiyal of the Pakistan Hindu Mandir Management Committee insisted that it was the responsibility of the district administration and relevant government departments to ensure the protection and rehabilitation of historical buildings of religious importance to non-Muslims.

The archaeology and museums department, police, culture department, and local government were bound by the 2016 antiquity law to protect such sites, including places of worship, he said.

The Dawn newspaper quoted Assistant Commissioner Landi Kotal, Muhammad Irshad, who expressed ignorance about the temples demolition and said, there is no mention of the temple in the official land record of Khyber tribal district.

The entire land in Landi Kotal Bazaar was owned by the state, he said.

The official maintained that a no objection certificate has been issued to the builder for the renovation and repair of some old shops in Landi Kotal Bazaar.

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The tehsil municipal authorities have granted permission for the commercial buildings or shops at all commercial and trade centres in tribal districts.

Tehsil Municipal Officer (TMO) Shahbaz Khan said that the local government was authorised to give the go-ahead signal for the construction of all commercial structures in the area only after their maps or drawings were approved and the requisite fees were deposited.

The Municipal authorities admit that they do not have authentic and organised revenue records in Khyber district.

Abdus Samad, the former TMO during whose tenure the deal for the construction of a commercial building was struck, expressed complete ignorance about any such orders issued by his office.

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Landi Kotal patwari Jamal Afridi claimed he was not aware of the construction activity at the temples site. He added that the revenue records had no mention of a mandir at that site.

If the government fails to fulfil its obligations towards religious minorities, all their places of worship and other historical buildings will vanish soon, he said.

Shinwari questioned the claims of the district administration at Khyber and the municipal authorities having no official land record of the temple.

It is the responsibility of the auqaf department to maintain and preserve historical non-Muslim places of worship, but the department had no office or employees in the Khyber tribal district, Shinwari said and added, Many aged tribal elders would bear testimony to this fact that there was a temple in main Landi Kotal Bazaar.

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Sarabdiyal suggested that the places, which were either not used by minorities or in a dilapidated condition, could be utilised for any social welfare activity to the collective benefit of the local communities rather than demolishing it and constructing something new.

(With agency inputs)
According to the MEA, this is a reaction to the growing internal turmoil in Myanmar where the military junta is engaged in intense fighting with rebel groups read more

Myawaddy, a vital border town in Myanmar, has been taken over by rebel fighters, dealing a serious blow to the military regime Image Courtesy AP

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday that Indian Embassy officials were being relocated from Sittwe to Yangon due to the precarious and deteriorating situation in Myanmar.

According to the MEA, this is a reaction to the growing internal turmoil in Myanmar where the military junta is engaged in intense fighting with rebel groups.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told the media that the Indian Consulate in Mandalay is still open and continues to offer diplomatic support.

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The situation in Myanmar remains precarious and deteriorating  We have relocated our Embassy staff from Sittwe to Yangon. (Indian) Consulate in Mandalay remains functional, Randhir Jaiswal said.

We are closely monitoring security situation in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine state, he added.

Myawaddy, a vital border town in Myanmar, has been taken over by rebel fighters, dealing a serious blow to the military regime. About 200 military men from Myanmar withdrew to a bridge close to the Thai border because anti-junta rebel groups continued to attack them.

This retreat comes after a well-planned onslaught by rebel groups, including as the Karen National Union (KNU), which took control of the Myawaddy military installation.

This is a crucial victory for our revolution since Myawaddy is an important border town for the junta, one of the main (sources of) income from border trade, Kyaw Zaw, a spokesperson for Myanmars National Unity Government, representing ousted lawmakers and anti-junta factions told the media.

Another blow to the military-run administration, which has been confronting growing resistance since the coup in 2021, is the loss of Myawaddy. Armed resistance has spread across the country as a result of the fighting, with rebel groups making gains in a number of frontier areas. Analysts surmise that large towns around Myanmar could be among the rebel fighters next targets.

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Thousands of civilians have crossed into Thailand to seek safety from the unrest as a result of the increasing violence.

Families with children among those seeking refuge in Thailand have been among the large number of arrivals from Myanmar that Thai officials have documented in recent days. Srettha Thavisin, the prime minister of Thailand, reaffirmed his nations neutrality in the conflict but gave an assurance that up to 100,000 displaced people would be accommodated.

Amidst the ongoing fighting, there has been an increase in civilian migration, as evidenced by the surge in traffic at border crossings between Thailand and Myanmar.

There are worries about possible spillover into neighboring countries, and the situation is still unstable. Relations between Myanmar and other regional partners are being constantly monitored as diplomatic efforts to address the crisis continue.
The latest bombardments in Gaza came after Israel said it was strengthening air defences and paused leave for combat units, following a deadly April 1 air strike that destroyed Irans consulate building in Damascus read more

Israel last week pulled its troops from the devastated city of Khan Yunis after months of fighting, but officials said they were preparing for operations against Hamas operatives in Rafah, near the Egyptian border Image Courtesy AFP

Locals in central Gaza reported hearing heavy Israeli fire on Friday, and tensions in the region spiked as Iran threatened retaliation for an attack in Syria earlier this month that claimed the lives of two Iranian generals.

Fearing that Iran would soon attack Israel, France advised its citizens not to travel to the region as truce talks to halt the six-month-old war continued.

Mohammed al-Rayes, 61, told AFP that he fled Israeli air strikes and artillery shelling in Nuseirat, central Gaza overnight.

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It was all fire and destruction, with so many martyrs lying in the street, he said.

Another resident, Laila Nasser, 40, reported shells and missiles throughout the night.

They will do to Nuseirat what they did to Khan Yunis, said Nasser, vowing to flee to the southernmost city of Rafah, like most of Gazas population.

Israel last week pulled its troops from the devastated city of Khan Yunis after months of fighting, but officials said they were preparing for operations against Hamas operatives in Rafah, near the Egyptian border.

Authorities in the Hamas-ruled coastal Palestinian territory on Friday reported dozens of new air strikes in Gazas central region.

The Hamas media office said 25 people were taken to hospital in Deir al-Balah city as a result of an air strike on a house of the al-Tabatibi family.

Israels military said its aircraft had struck more than 60 Hamas operatives in Gaza over the previous day.

The war began with Hamass unprecedented October 7 attack against Israel which resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.

Israels retaliatory offensive has killed at least 33,634 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the territorys health ministry. The ministrys updated toll on Friday included at least 89 deaths over the previous day.

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The latest bombardments in Gaza came after Israel said it was strengthening air defences and paused leave for combat units, following a deadly April 1 air strike that destroyed Irans consulate building in Damascus.

Iran blamed Israel, its arch foe, which has stepped up strikes against Iran-linked targets in Syria since the Gaza war began.

Among the targets have been fighters from Lebanons Hezbollah movement in Syria. The group has also exchanged regular deadly fire with Israel over the Lebanese border since October.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said late Thursday he had received phone calls from German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock as well as her British and Australian counterparts.

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In a post on X, the Iranian minister said he had told them that when the Zionist regime breaches the immunity of diplomatic persons and places and the UN Security Council fails to condemn it, legitimate defence is a necessity.

He added that Iran does not seek to expand the scope of the war.

United States President Joe Biden had on Wednesday said Iran is threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel, and pledged ironclad support for Washingtons top regional ally despite diplomatic tensions over Israels military conduct in Gaza.

US Central Command chief, General Michael Kurilla, was in Israel on Thursday to discuss the situation with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, the Pentagon said.

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France on Friday warned its nationals against travelling to Iran, Israel, Lebanon or the Palestinian territories, after the US embassy in Israel announced it was restricting the movements of its diplomats over security fears.

Moscow and Berlin urged restraint.

German airline Lufthansa extended a temporary suspension of flights to and from Tehran until Saturday.

In their October attack, Hamas operatives seized about 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli army says are dead.

Netanyahu leads a coalition including religious and ultra-nationalist parties, and is under pressure from anti-government protesters and relatives of the hostages demanding the government get them home.

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Tens of thousands have taken to the streets.

On Thursday night, hundreds demonstrated near Netanyahus Jerusalem residence with a different call  for the war to continue.

(With agency inputs)
According to a statement on the website of Ukraine President, Latvia has agreed to give Ukraine military assistance of roughly 112 million euros (USD 120 million). The agreement will support demining, vital infrastructure protection, and Ukraines recovery and reconstruction read more

Nine nations  Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Finland, Germany, France, Denmark, Great Britain, and now Latvia have bilateral security treaties with Ukraine

A 10-year agreement between Latvia and Ukraine states that Riga will give Kiev defense assistance equal to 0.25 percent of its GDP. On Thursday, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and President Edgars Rinkevics of Latvia signed a security agreement.

According to a statement on the website of Ukraine President, Latvia has agreed to give Ukraine military assistance of roughly 112 million euros (USD 120 million). The agreement will support demining, vital infrastructure protection, and Ukraines recovery and reconstruction.

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Latvia also made a 10-year commitment to assist Ukraine with cyber defence, demining, and unmanned technologies, as well as support for Ukraines EU and NATO accession, Zelensky said on X.

According to Latvia, the agreement to donate 0.25 percent of its GDP to Ukraine will stand for three years, from 2024 to 2026. This sum will go toward military education and the procurement of weaponry and equipment for use in the land, air, sea, and cyber-electromagnetic domains.

Both nations recognize that states have an unalienable right to individual and collective self-defense, and they regard as unlawful any attempt to alter borders through coercion. According to the agreements language, The Participants view Ukraines security as an integral part of the Euro-Atlantic and global security.

Nine nations  Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Finland, Germany, France, Denmark, Great Britain, and now Latvia have bilateral security treaties with Ukraine.

The most recent agreement is to put the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukrainewhich Russia attacked in February 2022into effect. According to the presidential website of Ukraine, 32 states have joined it altogether.
Political parties and civil society groups are planning to mount a legal challenge against the juntas decree. Some leaders have also called for civil disobedience read more

In Mali, political parties and civil society groups are preparing to fight back against a decree by the military junta banning political activities in the country. Source: Reuters

In the West African nation of Mali, opposition parties and civil society groups have banded together to oppose the ruling juntas recent crackdown on democracy and press freedom. A rough plan has already been sketched out.

Heres a look at the Mali juntas decree and how people plan to fight back against it.

Mali junta clamps down on political parties, media

The junta in Mali, led by interim President Colonel Assimi Goita, on Wednesday, issued a decree suspending all activites by political parties and groups until further notice. This, authorities said, was done to maintain public order.

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On Thursday, the authorities pressed on with this clampdown. They ordered all media (radio, television, written press, and online) to halt broadcast and publication of the activities of political parties and the activities of a political nature of associations.

The junta, which seized power in a coup in 2021, has already failed to fulfil its promise to conduct free and fair elections and restore democracy by March 2024. The regimes actions have deepened concerns about democratic backsliding in the country and the region.

The resistance: A rough action plan is ready

Malian political parties and civil society groups joined forced to reject the decrees. They called the authorities move a serious violation  of democratic freedoms in a declaration.

The signatories of the declaration have also decided to challenge the dictatorial move on legal grounds.

These entities have also refused to participate in any government activity, including ongoing national talks.

There are calls for civil disobedience, too. The president of the Convergence for the Development of Mali (CODEM) party, Housseini Guindo, wrote an online post titled DICTATORIAL DRIFT. He said it was time for the people to resist this ignominy and initiate civil disobedience until the fall of the illegal and illegitimate regime due in particular to its inability to satisfy the essential needs of Malians.

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With inputs from agencies
This statement by the MEA comes as hostilities between Israel and Iran, two powerful nations in the west Asia region, are intensifying in the wake of the explosion that killed Iranian generals at the Islamic republics consulate in Syria read more

Iran accused Israel of carrying out the strike against its embassy in Syria, and there have been worries that the Iranian military and its proxies may shortly attack Israel Image Courtesy AFP

In light of the increasing tensions between the two nations following an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria 11 days ago, India asked its people not to travel either Iran or Israel on Friday.

Iran accused Israel of carrying out the strike against its embassy in Syria, and there have been worries that the Iranian military and its proxies may shortly attack Israel.

The Indian community living in Iran and Israel was also advised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to take the highest safety precautions and limit their travel.

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In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice, the MEA said in a statement.

All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves, it added.

This statement by the MEA comes as hostilities between Israel and Iran, two powerful nations in the west Asia region, are intensifying in the wake of the explosion that killed Iranian generals at the Islamic republics consulate in Syria.

Israels foreign minister issued a threat on Wednesday, saying that if the Islamic Republic attacked Israel from its territory, Israels military would attack Iran directly.

In the meantime, more than 6,000 Indian laborers are scheduled to come in Israel in April and May to assist the nations construction industry in filling a labor shortfall that resulted from the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

About 60 Indian personnel have already been sent as part of the government-to-government (G2G) arrangement; this was done during the first week of April using a air shuttle.

In the upcoming weeks, a number of arrivals are anticipated. They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum, the MEA statement said.
The tensions between the two nations intensified last week after the Ecuadorian authorities barged into the Mexican diplomatic mission to arrest Ecuadors former Vice-President Jorge Glas read more

Days after Ecuador conducted a brutal police raid at the Mexican embassy in Quito, Mexico is demanding the United Nations to expel the South American country from the international body.

The tensions between the two nations intensified last week after the Ecuadorian authorities barged into the Mexican diplomatic mission to arrest Ecuadors former Vice-President Jorge Glas. Scared of getting persecuted in Ecuador, Glas has been holed up there and seeking asylum from Mexico.

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In light of this, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said that his country had filed a complaint at the International Court of Justice in the Netherlands asking the UN to expel Ecuador.

The court, in accordance with the United Nations charter, should approve the expulsion, and there should be no veto from the UN Security Council (UNSC)," the Mexican leader averred.

Mexico demands an apology

Lopez Obrador also maintained that the Latin American nation is demanding a public apology from Ecuador for last weeks raid. The demand for atonement also includes the demand for reparation of damages and a promise not to repeat the same mistakes.

Meanwhile, The Ecuadorian Foreign Minister, Gabriela Sommerfeld maintained that the country would continue to defend its action and insisted that an apology is not something that is under discussion at this moment.

The two nations have been sparring over Glas since the former Ecuadorian VP sought refuge in the Mexican embassy in December. It is pertinent to note that Glas is a convicted criminal and fugitive.

In the past, Ecuador has argued that Glas has been targeted for crimes, not for political reasons and demanded that Mexico should not be considering providing asylum to him.

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The diplomatic row that commenced following the raid

On April 5, the Ecuadorian police forcefully raided the embassy and even broke into the walls of the diplomatic building. Shortly after the attack, Roberto Canseco, Mexicos head of consular affairs and the highest-ranking diplomat present since Ecuador expelled the ambassador earlier in the month, tried to prevent the authorities from entering the premises.

He even pushed a large cabinet in front of a door but the police restrained him and pushed him to the floor. Mexico broke off all forms of diplomatic ties with Ecuador soon after and called the attack a violation of the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations.

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On Tuesday, Ecuadors deputy minister of human mobility, Alejandro Davalos, told representatives of the Organization of American States (OAS) gathered in Washington DC that Glas did not meet the requisites to merit receiving asylum from Mexico.

However, OAS Secretary-General, Luis Almagro, stated that the use of force, the illegal incursion into a diplomatic mission, nor the detention of an asylee are the peaceful way toward resolution of this situation. He made it clear that Ecuadors actions could not be allowed to set a precedent.

With inputs from agencies.
Yulia Navalnaya, widow of the deceased Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny, revealed he wrote his book while he was behind bars in a 30 year sentence and kept his memoir away from the public eye. The book will be released in 11 languages and is unlikely to release in his own country read more

Navalny wrote his memoir before he tragically died in an Arctic jail in February 2024. Reuters File

Alexey Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putins fiercest critic, covertly penned his biography during his time in jail, his widow Yulia Navalnaya confirmed before he was allegedly poisoned to death in one of Russias most isolated jails.

This is not how I imagined Alexey would write his biography at all. I thought wed be around 80 years old, and hed be sitting at the computer by the open window, typing away, Navalnaya wrote in a tweet on X.

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The memoir titled Patriot will be released later this year in October publisher Knopf said in a statement, while Navalnaya said that the book has already been translated into 11 languages other than Russian.

It is the full story of his (Navalny) life: his youth, his call to activism, his marriage and family, and his commitment to the cause of Russian democracy and freedom in the face of a world superpower determined to silence him, Knopf said.

The publisher stated that autobiography reflects the deceased leaders strong belief that change is inevitable and cannot be resisted.

Today is the end of secrecy

Kira Yarmysh, Navalnys spokesperson said Kremlin critic had begun to dictate parts of the book to her while he was convalescing in Germany for two months from a poisoning attempt in 2020.

I heard people talking about his (social media) posts from prison: Alexei writes so well, I wish hed write a book! And I wanted to clap my hands and shout, He is writing one! He is writing one! But we agreed to keep everything a secret. Now the secrets are over, she added.

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The 47-year-old opposition leader was jailed by the Russian government as soon as he returned from Germany and was sentenced to more than 30 years in prison for extremist activities. He finished his book behind the bars in 2021.

Halfway through life

Navalnaya recalled how the Russian leader hesitated to write his book even after his poisoning attempt in 2020, Everyone insisted, Alexey, you should write a book. He just shrugged it off. What kind of biography can be written at 44? Its barely halfway through life."

He wasnt rushing anyway - there was still so much ahead but things turned out differently. Horribly and very, very unfairly. It turned out there wasnt another half ahead, she added.

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Nevertheless, Alexey did start writing the book then, and unexpectedly quickly got into it. He liked to recall events in his life in connection with the events in the country, Navalnaya further said.

Penguin Books UK described the book as the full story of Navalnys life and a rousing call to continue the work for which he sacrificed his life, in a statement on X.

Navalnaya had criticised the Russian President, calling him a coward for only mentioning her husbands name after his death. Putin had described Navalnys death as sad and stated that he had been willing to exchange the imprisoned politician to the West in a prisoner swap a day later, on the condition that he never returned to Russia.
Switzerland will be hosting a peace summit between Russia and Ukraine in June in hope that someday Moscow will participate in the negotiations following over two years of catastrophic war read more

Russian President Vladimir Putin mocked a planned round of Ukraine peace talks in June saying it would have been funny if it werent so sad if Russia is not invited to the negotiation table meant to bring peace to the two warring sides.

Earlier this week, the Swiss government announced plans to host a high-level international summit, inviting over 100 countries, to discuss the way forward for peace in Ukraine following over two years of catastrophic war. They also expressed hope that Russia could potentially participate in the peace efforts in the future.

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had also warned that prospective ceasefire negotiations with Ukraine could be a useless waste of time" if they dont take Moscows interests into account.

Russia has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys Peace Formula, which includes demands for the withdrawal of Russian troops, compensation to Ukraine, and accountability through an international tribunal for Russias actions.

Swiss conference some kind of freak show

While asserting that Russia has never rejected a peaceful solution to the Ukrainian conflict, Putin said, during a meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, that he views the Ukraine-themed summit as some kind of a freak show.

Putin ridiculed the summit saying, They believe that we dont belong there. And at the same time, they say that it is impossible to resolve anything without us. It would have been funny, if it were not so sad, the Russian president was quoted as saying by _TASS.

_

Lukashenko replied that without Russian participation, parties of the Ukrainian-themed conference could only agree on further escalation.

Ukraine shouldnt sign agreements on Wests gunpoint

Recalling negotiations at the Istanbul summit, Putin said, We have never refused to resolve disputes peacefully. Moreover, this is exactly what we were inclined to do. But later the President added that the Ukrainian side should not sign peace agreements on gunpoint.

Putin said, Ukraine should not sign it [those agreements] on a gunpoint, and withdraw its troops from Kyiv, but then, under the pressure from the West, the Ukrainian side walked out of these agreements. Immediately after we did this, our agreements were thrown into a trash bin, Putin added.

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Turkiye has recently proposed a new plan for a peaceful settlement of Russias war against Ukraine, which includes a freeze on the war and a non-aligned status for Ukraine, Russian outlet Novaya Gazeta reported.
In March, the Electoral Commission barred Jacob Zuma from contesting in South Africas elections. The Electoral Court overturned that decision, leading to read more

The South African Constitutional Court will decide whether ex-President Jacob Zuma can contest in the upcoming elections. Source: AP

South Africas Electoral Commission has dragged South Africas Jacob Zuma, to the countrys top court. The poll body on Friday said it has launched an urgent and direct appeal to the Constitutional Court to rule on whether the ex-President can stand in the upcoming general elections.

Why is Zumas candidacy in question?

Zumas ambition to score another term as President of South Africa has now gotten tangled into a legal tussle.

Last month, the independent Electoral Commission barred Zuma from contesting in the elections.

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The decision concerned a 2021 court ruling that sentenced Zuma to 15 months in jail. That verdict had to do with the former President refusing to testify to a panel investigating corruption and cronyism during his reign.

The South African Constitution does not allow people sentenced to over 12 months in prion to contest elections. Citing these grounds, the Electoral Commission excluded the 81-year-old Zuma from the race.

Legal questions linger

Zuma contested the election management bodys decision in the court. His lawyers argued that since his sentence followed civil proceedings, not criminal ones, it should not lead to his disqualification. They also pointed out that Zumas jail term had been shortened by a remission.

In a surprise verdict on Tuesday, the Electoral Court ruled that Zuma can stand, overturning a decision by the electoral commission.

Following that unexpected verdict, the Electoral Commission took Zumas case to the top court in South Africa. They said there was substantial public interest in providing certainty on the proper interpretation of the constitutional article about the candidacies of people who have been convicted.

How will the courts verdict impact the elections?

The May 29 South African general elections are expected to be the most competitive in the country since 1994. Zumas presence or absence will be a critical factor in the outcome.

Zumas newly founded uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party is likely to benefit from his popularity and cut into the voter share of the ruling African National Congress (ANC).

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Zumas presence could lead to the ANCs vote share dropping below the 50 per cent mark for the first time since South Africa became a democracy in 1994.

If the party cannot secure a parliamentary majority, it will be forced to cobble together coalition partners to remain in power.

With inputs from agencies
General Erik Kurilla is in Israel to meet with key IDF leadership (and) discuss the current security threats in the region, said Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder read more

The Pentagon on Thursday said that top US commander for the Middle East General Erik Kurilla is in Israel for talks with the countrys military officials on security threats.

This visit coincides with heightened apprehensions surrounding potential retaliatory actions from Iran following an Israeli airstrike in Syria earlier this month that killed seven members of Irans elite Revolutionary Guards, including two high-ranking generals.

General Erik Kurilla is in Israel to meet with key IDF leadership (and) discuss the current security threats in the region, AFP quoted Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder as telling journalists.

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Ryder said the trip was moved up from a previously scheduled date due to recent developments.

On Wednesday, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader, issued a stern warning, declaring that Israel must be punished and will be punished. In a separate statement, US President Joe Biden reaffirmed unwavering support for Israel, emphasising the solidity of their alliance.

Additionally, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin engaged in talks with Yoav Gallant, Israels Defence Minister, on Thursday. Gallant conveyed to Austin that any direct aggression from Iran would prompt a fitting Israeli retaliation against Iran.

The two discussed readiness for an Iranian attack against the state of Israel, the countrys defense ministry said in a statement, adding that Gallant emphasized that the state of Israel will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory.

The Pentagon also released a statement on the call, saying Austin spoke with Gallant to reiterate ironclad US support for Israels defense in the face of growing threats from Iran and its regional proxies.

Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full US support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened, it said.

With inputs from agencies
Canada said it has decreased the number of Indian staff members in its diplomatic missions across India due to a shortage of Canadian personnel necessary for the effective management of in-country operations read more

Justin Trudeau-led Canadian government has reduced the number of local staff at its missions across India, slightly over five months after Ottawa withdrew 41, or more than two-thirds, of its diplomats in October last year.

Why Canada has slashed staff in Indian missions?

Canada has cited shortage of Canadian supervisory personnel required for the effective management of operations in India as the reason for reduction of diplomatic personnel in High Commission in New Delhi and the three consulate in Mumbai, Chandigarh and Bengaluru.

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I can confirm that the Government of Canada has implemented some staff reductions across our network of missions in India. The decision to implement reductions across our network of missions in India was sadly necessary given the reduction of Canadian staff available to effectively manage and maintain in-country operations, an official from the Canadian High Commission said.

A media relations official at the high commission also said the decision was taken in the aftermath of the withdrawal of the Canadian diplomats in October 2023.

Last October, Canada withdrew 41 diplomats from India after New Delhi demanded parity over diplomatic representation as it lashed out at allegations by the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that Indian agents had been behind the killing of Khalistani terrorist and a Canadian national, Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Will operations in Canada High Commission in India be affected?

The High Commission official said, Canada will continue to deliver core services to Canadians in India, including consular support and for trade and business development  so that the citizens of our two countries can continue to benefit from the longstanding ties between Canadians and Indians.

We can also confirm that Canadas visa application centres in India are operating as normal, the official added.

We wish to express our sincere gratitude for the resilience, dedication and service of our local staff in India, the official said.

How many staff are there now?

Though no specific number of local staff who have been laid off has been disclosed this time, it is being said that the count is significant.

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India-Canada ties

The diplomatic ties between India and Canada hit a new low after Trudeau, in September last year, accused the Indian government officials involvement in the murder of Nijjar in the Vancouver area in June 2023.

The Canadas PM reiterated his concerns about the Nijjar case during his testimony before a committee investigating allegations of foreign interference in Canadian affairs. He reaffirmed his governments commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of Canadians.

Our government remains steadfast in ensuring that anyone coming to Canada enjoys the rights and freedoms of a Canadian citizen, free from extortion, coercion, or interference from their country of origin. Our actions, including addressing the serious case of Nijjars murder, underscore our dedication to defending the rights and freedoms that many have sought by coming to Canada, Trudeau said.

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During the hearing, Trudeau also said his government defends the rights of citizens to speak out even if it irritates the Narendra Modi-led government in New Delhi.

He also accused the previous Conservative government in Canada of being cosy with Narendra Modi and his cabinet of ministers.

Also Read: Trudeau goes anti-India AGAIN, says Canadian citizens have right to speak out even if it irritates India

In his testimony, Trudeau was asked whether appropriate steps were not taken to expose foreign interference, to which he said: I think thats certainly a question one needs to ask of the previous conservative government that was known for its very cosy relationship with the current Indian government."

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Whereas our government has always stood up to defend minorities in Canada and the rights of minorities to speak out, even if it irritates their home countries overseas, he added.

With inputs from agencies
A new report has highlighted how Ukrainians are avoiding army conscription and paying steep prices to leave the country amidst its war with Russia read more

A new report sheds light on the intricate web of draft dodging in Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The report provides a detailed analysis of the challenges encountered by young Ukrainian men as they navigate the perilous terrain of army conscription and escape.

The report, by Sky News unveils the pivotal role played by smugglers, notably one individual identified as Stas, in orchestrating the flight of Ukrainian men from conscription. Stas, operating under the guise of saving lives, claims to offer a lifeline to those unwilling to confront the horrors of war.

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They simply arent ready to die, young people arent ready to bury themselves alive, Sky News quoted Stas.

So they turn to us for help. A significant number of people are turning to us - I wont mention names.

Martial law in Ukraine dictates that all men between 18 and 60 are prohibited from leaving the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently lowered the enlistment age from 27 to 25.

Those dodging the army draft cross at the Moldovan and Romanian borders, as well as other neighbouring nations like Hungary, Slovakia and Poland, said the report.

How much does it cost?

The report elucidates the clandestine pathways engineered by Stas, facilitating surreptitious crossings into neighboring European countries.

The journey, however, comes at a steep financial cost, with individuals facing prices ranging from $6,000 for crossing by foot to a discounted rate of $4,000 for those daring enough to swim across rivers.

If the person says they cant swim, we have equipment for that, but theres an additional payment involved, Stas explains.

As for any of our clients drowning, well, that hasnt happened yet. There have been cases of hypothermia though, especially in winter.

Ethical considerations

The report navigates the ethical quagmire surrounding Stas activities, probing into the underlying motivations behind his actions.

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I dont want to see young people dying. I just dont want to see that. I understand I may not be a saint [but] people want to cross and start living their lives. I cant refuse them.

The Sky News report said that if Stas was caught, he could be facing a prison term of up to nine years.

Stas emerges as a polarising figure, his actions eliciting divergent perspectives on the moral implications of draft evasion. While some view him as a guardian angel offering salvation to the vulnerable, others condemn him as a profiteer exploiting the nations plight for personal gain.
Amid escalating tensions between the worlds largest economies, President Joe Bidens administration has expanded the export blacklist to include more Chinese companies and individuals than any previous US administration.

The Commerce Department recently added six Chinese companies to its entity list, bringing the number of new targets during the Biden administration to 319. This surpasses the 306 entities added during Donald Trumps presidency, which coincided with a trade war with Beijing that inflicted economic damage on both nations.

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This development underscores the US governments increasing use of economic tools to achieve foreign policy objectives. President Biden aims to restrict Chinas access to advanced chips and technology, citing national security concerns. Heightened tensions between President Xi Jinpings administration and Taiwan have further raised concerns in Washington that Beijing may leverage American technology to enhance its military capabilities.

Being tough on China, including through the restriction of its access to technology, is a theme that has bipartisan agreement, Alfredo Montufar-Helu, head of the Conference Boards China Center quoted by Bloomberg. With a US election in November, both sides have incentives during these months of campaigning to show themselves as being as strong on China, he said.

President Biden has maintained Trump-era tariffs while also expanding trade restrictions, particularly targeting measures that hinder Beijings access to cutting-edge technologies, notably in the critical artificial intelligence sector.

In February alone, the US added eight companies to its entity list, quietly surpassing Trumps previous record. This week, six additional entities were added, further solidifying the entity list as a primary tool for Washington to impose sanctions on individuals, companies, or organizations in China and elsewhere, citing national security concerns.

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Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesman, He Yadong, criticized this policy during a briefing in Beijing, labeling it as an attempt to hinder Chinas development. He characterized the imposition of export controls on Chinese firms as economic coercion and unilateral bullying.

In a retaliatory move, China sanctioned two US companies, freezing all their assets in China and denying visas to their executives. These sanctions, primarily targeting defense contractors involved in arms sales to Taiwan, are largely symbolic as the firms likely have no significant assets in China.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including the maritime economic zones of neighbouring nations. The Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines 200-mile (320-km) exclusive economic zone. A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found that Chinas sweeping claims have no legal basis. Japan has a dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea. read more

US President Joe Biden speaks while escorting Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to their trilateral summit at the White House in WashingtonCredit: Reuters

Tensions between China and its neighbours took the spotlight as leaders of the US, Japan, and the Philippines convened at the White House to address Beijings intensified pressure on Manila in the disputed South China Sea.

During the historic trilateral summit, hosted by US President Joe Biden, his administration unveiled plans for new joint military efforts and infrastructure investment in the Philippines, a former American territory. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington for the unprecedented meeting.

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At the top of the agenda was Chinas escalating pressure in the South China Sea, despite President Bidens appeal to Chinese President Xi Jinping last year.

We express our serious concerns about the Peoples Republic of Chinas dangerous and aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea. We are also concerned by the militarization of reclaimed features and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea, the countries said in a statement issued after the summit.

Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday the statement amounted to a wanton smear attack and Beijing summoned a Japanese diplomat to protest against the comments.

The Philippines and China had several maritime run-ins last month that included the use of water cannons and heated verbal exchanges. The disputes centre on the Second Thomas Shoal, home to a small number of Filipino troops stationed on a warship that Manila grounded there in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims.

Launching the White House meeting with the three leaders, Biden affirmed that a 1950s-era mutual defence treaty binding Washington and Manila would require the US to respond to an armed attack on the Philippines in the South China Sea." United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are iron clad," he said. Marcos has successfully pushed Washington to resolve longstanding ambiguity over the treaty by specifying that it would apply to disputes in that sea.

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China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including the maritime economic zones of neighbouring nations. The Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines 200-mile (320-km) exclusive economic zone. A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found that Chinas sweeping claims have no legal basis. Japan has a dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea.

The three countries said their coast guards planned to conduct a trilateral exercise in the Indo-Pacific region in the coming year and establish a dialogue to enhance future cooperation. The moves come after two prominent US senators introduced a bipartisan bill on Wednesday to provide Manila with $2.5 billion to boost its defences against Chinese pressure.

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Chinas frequent tactic is to try to isolate the target of its pressure campaigns, but the April 11 trilateral signals clearly that the Philippines is not alone, said Daniel Russel, who served as the top US diplomat for East Asia under former President Barack Obama.

The leaders also unveiled a wide range of agreements to enhance economic ties during the meetings, including backing new infrastructure in the Philippines, aimed at ports, rail, clean energy and semiconductor supply chains.
Amid strained relations with China over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, the Philippines is enhancing economic cooperation with both the US and Japan to counter Chinas aggression. read more

The US has announced plans to support infrastructure, semiconductor, and nickel processing projects in the Philippines, as the long-time allies seek to strengthen investment partnerships following the revitalisation of defence ties.

Outlined in a White House fact sheet released on Thursday, these initiatives coincide with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s visit to Washington, where he participated in his first trilateral meeting with President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Amid strained relations with China over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, the Philippines is enhancing economic cooperation with both the US and Japan.

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A significant collaboration involves the acceleration of investments in the Luzon Economic Corridor by the US, Philippines, and Japan. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity between former US military bases-turned-commercial hubs, such as Subic Bay and Clark, along with Manila and Batangas province on the countrys main island.

Projects within this corridor include modernizing rail and ports, promoting clean energy, developing semiconductor supply chains, advancing agribusiness, and upgrading civilian ports at Subic Bay.

President Marcos welcomed President Bidens recent Presidential Trade and Investment Mission to the Philippines and the announcement of more than $1 billion in US private sector investments that help promote the Philippines innovation economy, clean energy transition, and supply chain resilience, as well as the continued US commitment to mobilising private sector investment in the Philippines.

President Marcos appreciates Japans contribution of Official Development Assistance and private sector investment in its 2022-2023 fiscal year, which exceeded the pledge of JPY 600 billion made in the 2023 Japan-Philippines Joint Statement.

We welcome the first trilateral commerce and industry ministers meeting that took place earlier today to advance our shared agenda. Our three nations commit to facilitating the steady implementation of ongoing and future economic cooperation projects toward the Philippines attainment of upper middle-income country status and beyond, he said.
The US said it had restricted its employees in Israel and their family members from travelling outside the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beer Sheva areas amid Irans threats read more

The United States has implemented stringent travel restrictions for its employees stationed in Israel. This move comes in the wake of Irans vow to avenge an airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1, which has further strained an already tense region amidst the aftermath of the Gaza conflict.

The US embassy in Israel issued a security alert on Thursday, announcing the limitation of personal travel for its staff and their families. The restriction confines them to the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva areas.

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The embassy specified that employees are permitted to transit between these areas for personal travel purposes, but are prohibited from venturing beyond them until further notice.

Biden affirms Israels security amid Iranian threat

US President Joe Biden addressed concerns on Wednesday regarding potential threats from Iran, affirming the USs unwavering commitment to ensuring the security of its ally, Israel.

Biden said that Iran was threatening to launch a significant attack in Israel.

US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, acknowledged the heightened tensions and Irans public threats towards Israel during a press briefing.

We conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground, Miller said. Im not going to speak to the specific assessments that led to us to restrict our employees and family members personal travel, but clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel.

The April 1 strike in Damascus killed a top Iranian general and six other Iranian military officers. The White House had earlier said that Washington was not involved in the air strike and that the US did not want conflict to spread in the Middle East.
In a meeting with Arun Venkatraman, the Assistant Secretary of the International Trade Administration, last month, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti talked about methods to improve trade between the US and India as well as the significance of this strategic alliance read more

Jaishankar further emphasized that the events involving American students are not political in nature Image Courtesy ANI

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the strong bonds that exist between the US and India on Friday, stating that the US will always want a partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and that any US president will likely have positive relationships with India.

Whoever will be the President of America will have good relations with India, because America will always want to have a partnership with PM Modi, Jaishankar said, engaging with the students in Pune at the launch event of the Marathi translation of his book, Why Bharat Matters.

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In a meeting with Arun Venkatraman, the Assistant Secretary of the International Trade Administration, last month, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti talked about methods to improve trade between the US and India as well as the significance of this strategic alliance.

The East West Centers contribution to strengthening relations between the US, Asia, and the Pacific islands was also commended by the US envoy.

Jaishankar further emphasized that the events involving American students are not political in nature.

The incidents that happened with students in America are not political, we have told the Embassy to maintain maximum contact with the student community, all the cases are individual cases, there is no connection with each other, he said.

Notably, there have been a number of upsetting US reports of Indian nationals or persons of Indian descent in recent times.

In the first two months of 2024, there were reports of up to five Indian students who had died in various events. Vivek Taneja, 41, passed away in Washington as well from wounds sustained in an assault.

Syed Mazahir Ali, an Indian student, was the victim of a vicious attack in Chicago in February. The Indian Consulate in Chicago said it was in contact with the victim and his wife in India after the attack.

The Ministry of External Affairs denounced the deaths of Indian students in the US earlier today and stated that multiple factors contributed to their deaths. It also stated that investigations into two recent cases are ongoing and that Indian authorities have brought up the matter with US authorities.

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During Fridays weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal brought attention to the tragic deaths of Indian students in the US.

Randhir Jaiswal stated that approximately ten Indian students have died since January, citing the data.

Since January, there have been some 10 Indian students who have passed away. One was a case of homicide which was registered against a vagrant person. This was the most unfortunate of Vivek Saini. Then, there was a case in which the victim was shot at, he said.
The wonderful ties and the strategic relations between India and Israel are well known. And it was only natural and very much appreciated that the government of India made a statement, a very quick one, of support to its strategic partner, Israel. These relations are very strong and will continue, said former Israeli envoy to India Daniel Carmon read more

All praise for Indias quick statement of support for Israel after the horrific terror attack by Hamas on 7 October, former Israeli envoy to India Daniel Carmon on Thursday said that by doing so India sent out a larger message by putting its weight behind its strategic partner.

He said that India has seen terrorism from close quarters and knows how to confront it.

The wonderful ties and the strategic relations between India and Israel are well known. And it was only natural and very much appreciated that the Government of India made a statement, a very quick one, of support to its strategic partner, Israel. These relations are very strong and will continue, Carmon said.

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Reaching out to the international community, Carmon said that they should stand in solidarity with Israel and should not leave them to fend for themselves.

The international community should stand in solidarity with us in light of this tragedy (the October 7 attacks) and should not leave us to fend for itself even for a single second until all contentious issues are resolved, and until they (Israeli hostages) are unconditionally and immediately released. India knows a thing or two about terrorism and how to confront it, he added.

On Hamas holding hostages, the former Israeli envoy said it was an immense and a terrible crime to abduct ordinary citizens from their homes, adding that the international community should be aware of the October 7 tragedy and should not leave till all hostages are released safely.

The situation right now is twofold. The forum of families of hostages is trying to give the human aspect, the assistance of the civil society in Israel to the families who have lost track of their loved ones that have been kidnapped We have to understand that the terrorist organisation that kidnapped our people is committing a terrible crime by taking ordinary citizens from their homes. This isnt part of a war, the former envoy said.

The war in Gaza rages on after Israel launched a counter-offensive in response to the Hamas attacks on October 7.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first global leaders to condemn the horrific terror attacks in southern Israel that left over a thousand dead and scores more injured.

With inputs from agencies
The UK defence secretary suggested that a new and innovative British military laser could be used on the Ukrainian battlefield to shoot down Russian drones read more

As the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, the UK defence secretary suggested that a new and innovative British military laser could be used on the Ukrainian battlefield to shoot down Russian drones.

The military laser in question is the DragonFire weapon system which is expected to be ready for deployment by 2027. However, British defence secretary Grant Shapps noted that it couldve huge ramifications for Kyivs ongoing conflict against Russia.

Keeping this in mind, the weapon system that uses a beam to hit and destroy targets at the speed of light is expected to be tested by the Royal Navy and the Army next month for operational deployment, The Independent reported.

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UK to speed up procurement

Given the ongoing geopolitical situation, the British defence ministry is pushing for new reforms which are aimed at speeding up procurement. This would mean that the weapon system which was originally set to be rolled out in 2032 will now be operational in five years or even earlier than that.

Shapps maintained that during the testing phase, he would look to see if the pace could be increased further.

In a more dangerous world, our approach to procurement is shifting. We need to be more urgent, more critical and more global . Lets say that it didnt have to be 100 per cent perfect in order for Ukrainians perhaps to get their hands on it  2027 is still the date as of this moment, the British defence secretary told local reporters.

But of course, Ill look to see what we can do to speed up, he added.

What do we know about the DragonFire weapon system?

The defence scientists have described the LDEW (Laser Directed Energy Weapon) as a game changer. They pointed out the laser weapon systems ability to strike something as small as a 1 coin from a kilometre away.

Meanwhile, the radio frequency outlets of the weapon system have the potential to weaken the enemy defences by cutting off communications and electricity.

The laser will be positioned on the Navys Type 23 frigates and in future will be stationed on Wolfhound armoured personnel carriers. The frequency demonstrators on the other hand will be strapped to the Armys Man SV vehicles.

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The weaponry is being produced by the British governments Dstl (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory) and private sector defence firms MBDA, Leonardo and QinetiQ. According to The Independent, the Weapon system was developed at the UKs top secret research centre at Porton Down, near Salisbury.

While visiting the facility, Shapps reiterated that he would seek to up the pace of development. Ive come down to speed up the production of the DragonFire laser system because I think given that there are two big conflicts on, one sea-based, one in Europe, this could have huge ramifications to have a weapon capable particularly of taking down drones, he exclaimed.
Fifteen years after she assumed the post in 2009, debates started to emerge whether the 69-year-old Supreme Court justice should retire before the upcoming US Presidential elections read more

As the race to the White House intensified sudden calls among academics and scholars started to emerge for the retirement of Americas first Hispanic justice in the Supreme Court Sonia Sotomayor.

Fifteen years after she assumed the post in 2009, debates started to emerge whether the 69-year-old Supreme Court justice should retire before the upcoming US Presidential elections. political pundits and academics have claimed that a retirement would give Biden the chance to replace her with a young liberal justice.

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The whole saga began with a hit piece in The Atlantic, last month, which called for Sotomayor to retire now. The article demands for her to step down, since the Democrats currently hold both the White House and the Senate, the two American institutions responsible for appointing a Supreme Court justice.

Heres a look at the legacy of Sotomayor and why are people calling for her retirement.

Sonia Sotomayor: The first Latina Supreme Court Justice

When Former US President Barrack Obama nominated Sotomayor to the US Supreme Court, he insisted that when she ascends those marble steps to assume her seat . . . America will have taken another important step towards realising the ideal that is etched above [the courts] entrance: Equal justice under the law.

Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. administers the Constitutional Oath to Judge Sonia Sotomayor in the Justices Conference Room. Her mother, Mrs. Celina Sotomayor, holds the family Bible. Source: The Academy of Achievement

Sotomayor was born on June 25 1954, in a close Puerto Rican family in the South Bronx complex. She grew up in a 28-building complex called Bronxdale Houses and had a very rough childhood after the death of her father when she was just 9 years old.

She overcame her challenges and pursued a bachelors degree from Princeton in 1976. She eventually went to Yale to obtain her J.D.

By the late 1970s, Sotomayor was serving as an assistant district attorney in the New York County District Attorneys Office. In 1992, Former US President George H.W. Bush nominated her to the US District Court, Southern District of New York, she served the role until 1998.

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Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. administers the Constitutional Oath to Judge Sonia Sotomayor in the Justices Conference Room. Her mother, Mrs. Celina Sotomayor, holds the family Bible. Source: The Academy of Achievement

In honour of her long legacy, today the Bronxdale Houses are called the Sotomayor Houses.

Why are people calling for her resignation: The age question

Many experts believe that if Democrats lose the presidency and the upper chamber, they are risking the Sotomayors spot. Currently the composition of the US Supreme court is 6-3 in favour of the conservatives.

It is argued that by replacing liberal wings oldest member, democrats would cement their numbers in the apex court. Some fears in this regard was echoed by Senator Richard Blumenthal.

Sotomayor is a highly accomplished and, obviously, fully functioning justice right now, but that we should learn a lesson. And its not like theres any mystery here about what the lesson should be, Senator Richard Bluementhal told NBC News last week.

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Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. administers the Constitutional Oath to Judge Sonia Sotomayor in the Justices Conference Room. Her mother, Mrs. Celina Sotomayor, holds the family Bible. Source: The Academy of Achievement

Some believe that even if Biden wins re-election and democrats lose the Senate, he will be forced to pick either a centrist or might refuse to consider nominating one at all. In both cases Conservatives will have the upper hand.

If Trump wins the 2024 elections, he might have the chance to fortify the conservative wing and make the score 7-2 in favour of the right-wing justices.

The past mistakes

The experts started calling for Sotomayors resignation highlighting what happened after Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away. The death of the liberal justice during the final months of the Trump presidency, enabled the buisness-mogul-turned-politician to the appoint conservative justice Amy Coney Barrett in her place. This made the apex court more conservative enabling them to slash down Roe vs Wade.

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For years, Ginsburg ignored calls to retire during the Obama presidency. Certainly I think if Justice Ginsburg had it to do over again, she might have rethought her confidence in her own health, Whitehouse told NBC News after her death.

Ex-President Donald Trump watches as Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas administers the Constitutional Oath to Amy Coney Barrett on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Monday, Oct. 26, 2020. Source: AP

Concerns over Sotomayors health started to escalate back in 2018 when the Supreme Court justice traveled with a medic. In the same years the paramedics were called to her home.

How are the two cases different

The cases of RBG and Sotomayor are completely different. Ginsburg who died aged 87 was suffering from pancreatic cancer.

Sotomayor on the other has not even reached the age of 70 yet and her main health condition is diabates. If we go back to the history, some justices have served the highest court of the United States well into their 80s. Former Supreme Court Justices Oliver Wendell Holmes and John Paul Stevens were both 90 when they stepped down.

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The photograph of Supreme Court justices before RBG passed away. Source: The Academy of Achievement

Democrats comes in Sotomayors support

While legal experts and political pundits are pushing for Sotomayors resingation, several democratic leaders came to her defence.

It makes no sense to me. I think Justice Sotomayor is doing a terrific job, and I think shell be doing a terrific job for years to come, Senator Elizabeth Warner told Huffington Post.

Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota called the debate a complete waste of time. Im not in favor of telling people when they should retire, she said. I just think its a waste of energy and time to have these silly debates, she furthered.
Russian military trainers arrived in Niger with an air defence system and other equipment as part of the African nations accord with Moscow read more

A spokesperson for Niger's military government said the Russians were in the country to train soldiers | Source: AP/Representative

Nigers state television footage revealed the arrival of Russian military trainers in the west-African nation, signaling a significant shift in the countrys defence alliances amidst strained relations with the United States.

Two Russian military trainers, clad in full uniform and protective gear, were captured on camera disembarking from a plane laden with military supplies. The arrival of the trainers was announced in a broadcast on Thursday.

We are here to train the Nigerian army to use the military equipment that is here, one of the Russian trainers said in French in Thursdays broadcast. We are here to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.

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In January this year, Nigers military government agreed to step up military cooperation with Russia, after expelling French forces that were helping fight jihadist rebellions in the Sahel region.

The arrival also follows a high-level call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Nigers military leadership in March.

Nigers military leaders view diversifying partnerships and asserting greater sovereignty as strategic imperatives, as highlighted in the state broadcast, reported AP.

US-Niger relations fray

Historically, Niger has been a pivotal ally for the United States in the fight against insurgency in the Sahel region, reported AP.

A US airbase stationed in Niger has served as a linchpin for counterinsurgency operations, aimed at quelling the growing threat posed by Al Qaeda and the Islamic State group in the region.

Over the years, the US has heavily invested in training Nigerien forces to combat insurgency. However, last summer witnessed a setback in relations as some of those US-trained forces participated in a coup, resulting in the ousting of the elected president.

This event marked a turning point in US-Niger relations, leading to further deterioration.

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Tensions between Niger and the US escalated when the junta, installed after the coup, declared US flights from the airbase illegal and renounced recognition of American military presence.

The junta accused the US of coercion and warned against collaborating with rival powers, including Russia and Iran.

Despite the rift, Niger has yet to formally expel American troops from its territory, leaving the status of US military presence in limbo.

US officials have confirmed that Niger has not issued an order for their withdrawal.
SHIZUOKA, Apr 12 (News On Japan) - The first auction of the new tea season took place at the Shizuoka Tea Market in Shizuoka City, with the highest bid reaching over 1.11 million yen per kilogram.

The initial auction, a tradition since 1957, was held at the Shizuoka Tea Market in Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, one day earlier than last year's already early date, on April 12. Trading began around 7:00 AM, and this year's top price was fetched by a variety named "Yabukita," specifically the "Takane no Kaori" variety, which commanded 1,111,111 yen per kilogram. As the deal was struck, the celebratory sound of "teuchi," where three people clap their hands three times simultaneously, resonated throughout the market.

Hideki Mochizuki, president of the Ryogochi Tea Industry Association, commented, "We have created a tea with a high fragrance. We hope people will enjoy its flavor and aroma."

This year, due to cooler temperatures in late March, the growth of tea was restrained, and the new tea from Shizuoka Prefecture dealt on April 12 amounted to just over 50 kilograms, the smallest quantity to date. As a result, the average price soared to 77,637 yen per kilogram, nearly five times the previous record high of 15,928 yen set in 1995.

Source: NHK
After rumours, first set of renders for the upcoming Sony Xperia 1 VI has surfaced, thanks to @Onleaks. This shows a familiar design with the front camera on the top bezel and a large bottom bezel for the speakers.

The renders also reveal a wider and a more traditional 19.5:9 aspect ratio, compared to 21:9 aspect ratio in older models. It is also said to pack a 2K+ or Quad HD+ (about 3200 x 1440 pixels) panel instead of a 4K panel in the previous models.

It is said to measure 161.9 x 74.5 x 8.4mm, making it wider and shorter than the older models due to the design change, and it is said to be 0.1mm thicker compared to 1 V.

Reports suggest that the Xperia 1 VI will boast a triple camera setup on the back, with all three rear camera sensors that are rumored to be 48MP Exmor T sensors, including a 48MP 1/2.7 periscope telephoto sensor capable of 3x optical zoom and up to 6x zoom via sensor crop.

As for the release date, the phone is expected to see a global launch in May, which is next month. We can expect more details about the phone in the coming weeks.

Source
ZTE has introduced Axon 60 Ultra, the companys latest top-end smartphone in the Axon series, in China during the ZTE Cloud Network Ecological Summit. The main highlight of the phone is its ZTE Hongyu satellite communication technology, and it also supports direct connection to Tiantong satellite.

It is also claimed to be the industrys first secure mobile phone with independent domestic chips and support for single Beidou positioning. It has 8 built-in 5G antennas and is equipped with an adaptive multi-antenna switching intelligent algorithm, according to the company.

The phone has Jingxing OS based on a dual-system architecture and built-in independent security chip.

ZTE Axon 60 Ultra specifications

6.78-inch 1.5K OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming

Octa Core Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 4nm Mobile Platform with Adreno 740 GPU

Dual SIM

50MP main camera, OIS, 50MP 120-degree ultra-wide lens with macro option

32MP front-facing camera

In-display fingerprint sensor

USB Type-C audio, Dual smart PA, Stereo dual speakers, DTS: X Ultra

Dust and water resistant (IP68)

5G NSA /SA, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6E 802.11 ax (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS (L1/L5)+ GLONASS, USB Type-C, NFC

6000mAh battery, 80W fast charging

ZTE has mentioned that it is a ZTE Government and Enterprise Product Release, so will not be sold to the public.

However, the companys CEO Ni Fei has confirmed that the company has plans for a flagship phone with satellite communication tech for the public later this year.

Regarding this ZTE CEO said:

At present, satellite communications mainly rely on high-orbit satellites, which are often used in emergency scenarios. However, due to the limited number of large high-orbit satellites, there are still some limitations in high-speed downloads and dense connections. In the future, with the development and civilian use of low-orbit satellites, the application scenarios of satellite mobile phones are expected to further expand. In addition, ZTE has profound accumulation in information security, and we will also consider expanding these security technologies and satellite communication capabilities to the civilian field. We will also launch a satellite communications flagship phone for the mass market this year.

Source
Google has started rolling out the first Android 15 beta today. It comes after the Android 15 Developer Preview 2 released in March this year.

The update brings several improvements, including better performance, enhanced communication features, and improved support for large screens.

Heres a rundown of whats new in Android 15 beta 1 update:

1) Edge-to-edge display: Apps on Android 15 are now designed to fit large screens by default, eliminating the need for developers to explicitly enable this feature. Material 3 components will automatically adjust to fit the screen, providing a uniform look across all apps.

2) Smoother NFC experiences: Android 15 enhances the tap-to-pay experience and supports multiple NFC-aware applications. Devices can now register fingerprints to improve reliability during NFC interactions.

3) Inter-character justification: Android 15 introduces inter-character justification for text, enhancing readability for languages like Chinese and Japanese.

4) App archiving: Android 15 includes OS-level support for app archiving, allowing users to free up space by partially removing infrequently used apps from their devices.

5) App-managed profiling: The new ProfilingManager class enables developers to collect profiling information within their apps, simplifying performance analysis.

6) Better Braille support: Android 15 improves support for Braille displays using the HID standard over USB and Bluetooth.

7) Key management for end-to-end encryption: The E2eeContactKeysManager facilitates end-to-end encryption in Android apps, providing a centralized way to manage cryptographic keys.

8) Secured background activity launches: Android 15 restricts malicious background apps from bringing other apps to the foreground, enhancing user security.

Availability

For those interested in testing compatibility, Android 15 Beta 1 is available for early adopters and developers. The beta is available for the following devices:

Pixel 6 Series: Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a

Pixel 7 Series: Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a

Pixel 8 Series: Pixel 8 and 8 Pro

Pixel Fold

Pixel Tablet

Google encourages testing app compatibility with Android 15 beta and providing feedback through the Android Beta Feedback app.

If youre already on the Android 14 Beta Program or Developer Preview 2, youll receive the Android 15 Beta 1 OTA update from today.

To join the Android Beta Program, users can sign up on the official website and opt-in for updates.
TOKYO, Apr 12 (News On Japan) - Tofubeats is set to release a new EP titled "NOBODY" on April 26th, based on the concept of "floor-like house music," entirely produced using the AI vocal synthesis software Synthesizer V for all its tracks.

As the title suggests, the intangible voices on each track convey messages that, while being inorganic, exude a curious warmth and groove. Prior to the release of the EP, the lead track "I CAN FEEL IT (Single Mix)" has begun streaming today, April 12th.

Tofubeats commented on the work, stating, "I wasn't particularly conscious of it, but I ended up completing an EP without a single song featuring my own vocals. I hope you can feel the 'atmosphere' of Tofubeats, which has been shut away from auto-tune (though, in the end, it's still songs sung by a machine). Please enjoy the lead single 'I CAN FEEL IT' first."

Source: Natalie
Ishikawa, Apr 13 (News On Japan) - The Emperor and Empress visited a shelter in Ishikawa Prefecture on Friday to provide comfort to the victims of the disaster.

The aircraft designated for the royal couple experienced engine trouble, leading to a delayed departure on a replacement aircraft by over an hour.

In the central commercial district of Anamizu Town, most shops remain closed. At a local facility where 46 people still live as evacuees, the Emperor and Empress bent down to listen attentively to the victims' stories.

Yoshiro Yoneda (76), a resident at the shelter, was moved by the visit: "They are truly kind people. It brought me to tears. They genuinely cared about us."

At a site where a landslide claimed 16 lives, Their Majesties deeply bowed in respect.

Their visit to the disaster area is not yet over. In the Shiromaru district of Noto Town, where a tsunami swept away homes, the Emperor asked, "What has been the most challenging for you?"

Shiromaru Public Hall Director, Yukio Kanda, responded, "The biggest concern has been the health of the evacuees due to the unfamiliar communal living."

The Empress inquired about his personal situation to which Kanda replied, "Fortunately, my house only had minor damages like a broken wall and some cracked bowls."

Last month, the royal couple also visited the cities of Wajima and Suzu. This marks their second visit to the disaster-affected areas within three weeks.

A resident of Anamizu Town expressed hope: "We need to regain our spirits and rebuild our town. That's all there is to it. It's not just about me but about revitalizing the entire commercial district here."

Another resident added, "We just want our normal lives back."

Source: ANN
TOKYO, Apr 13 (News On Japan) - The Imperial Household Agency of Japan has recently launched an official Instagram account. What stands out is the single account it chooses to follow.

The account's sole follow is that of the Dutch Royal Family, signifying a unique and special relationship between the two royal houses. This connection underscores the deep bond shared by Empress Masako and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, which extends back to August 2006. At that time, Emperor Naruhito, then Crown Prince, and his family met with members of the Dutch Royal Family. The Netherlands was the first overseas destination visited by Princess Aiko, where she was warmly welcomed.

The Instagram account was inaugurated this month and has already documented these historic ties. It showcased their recent activities, including a second visit to disaster areas affected by an earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture. The Emperor and Empress expressed genuine concern for the victims, a sentiment that resonated deeply with those they visited.

As of 5 PM on Friday, April 12, the Instagram account has garnered 851,800 followers while maintaining its exclusive following of the Dutch Royal Household. This digital interaction is a modern reflection of the longstanding relationship, which includes Queen Maxima's visit to Japan in October 2014. This visit marked Princess Aiko's first attendance at a state banquet in 11 years, highlighting the ongoing personal and diplomatic ties.

Empress Masako and Queen Maxima, both of whom have had careers before their royal engagements -- Masako as a diplomat and Maxima in banking -- share this unique professional background that has perhaps fortified their bond over the years.

Source: ANN
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Trinity Episcopal Church in this captivating tour given by Reverend Jimmy Abbott. Join J.R., Lisa, Erika, and Reverend Jimmy in uncovering the layers of history, from its founding in 1841 to its role in wartime and natural disasters.
TOKYO, Apr 13 (News On Japan) - Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike firmly denied allegations regarding her educational background during a regular press conference. She reaffirmed her graduation from Cairo University, supported by both her diploma and a certificate that she has made public.

The controversy surrounding Koike's credentials began with the publication of a book in May 2020, which questioned her claims of graduating from Cairo University. In response to these allegations, Koike's former close associate and the former Secretary-General of Tomin First no Kai, Toshiro Kojima, addressed the media on April 12th.

Kojima recalled a conversation from June 2020 where Governor Koike expressed concerns about her graduation certificates not putting an end to the scrutiny, suggesting that obtaining a statement from Cairo University could be beneficial. Shortly after this conversation, the Embassy of Egypt in Japan posted a statement on Facebook confirming Governor Koike's graduation.

Kojima criticized the timing and nature of this declaration, suggesting it was orchestrated by someone acquainted with the governor, thereby casting doubt on the authenticity of Koike's graduation.

During her press conference on Friday, Governor Koike countered the claims published in Bungei Shunju, insisting that she had graduated as acknowledged by the university and had previously disclosed her graduation documents. She lamented the timing of such allegations, which seemed to coincide with elections, implying political motives behind the repeated surfacing of these claims.

When questioned directly about her discussions with Kojima or if she was advised to issue a statement, Koike was non-committal, mentioning only her past deliberations on how to address ongoing suspicions and not recalling the specifics clearly.

Source: ANN
Auto/Motor



Vespa World Day 2024 Pontedera Pisa Italy (Quelle: Roberto Magni and Daniela Comi By Foto ReD Photogr)

My father Magni Vittorio's Vespa

(Quelle: Roberto Magni and Daniela Comi By Foto ReD ) GDN - From April 18th to 21st, 2024, Pontedera, in the province of Pisa, Italy, will host the Vespa Days, the gathering dedicated to the Vespa, the world's most famous scooter. This event has been organized for the first time in the city of birth and production of this iconic means of transportation, which has captured the hearts of millions of enthusiasts around the world.



The Vespa was born in Pontedera in 1946, thanks to the ingenuity and creativity of Enrico Piaggio, founder of the company that gave life to this legendary vehicle. Since then, the Vespa has crossed decades of history, becoming a symbol of freedom and style and winning over generations of people around the world.



The Vespa Days gathering is a moment of meeting and celebration for all Vespa enthusiasts, who come together to share their passion for this unique vehicle. During the event, participants will have the opportunity to take part in numerous activities, such as city rallies, tourist tours in the surroundings, visits to the Vespa factory, and much more.



In addition to the scheduled activities, the Vespa Days also offer the opportunity to discover the beauty of Pontedera and its territory, immersing oneself in a special atmosphere full of emotions. Participants will have the chance to visit the places related to the history of the Vespa, such as the Piaggio Museum, which tells the story and evolution of this means of transportation.



The Vespa Days gathering is a must-attend event for all Vespa enthusiasts, who will have the opportunity to live a unique and unforgettable experience, surrounded by the beauty of Pontedera and the magic of the Vespa. The appointment is from April 18th to 21st, 2024 in Pontedera, to celebrate together the myth of the Vespa and its city of origin.

This year's edition is shaping up to be one of the most magnificent in the history of Vespa Clubs, which have been gathering for seventy years to celebrate the iconic Vespa. The event, held in Paris since 1954, will see the participation of enthusiasts from all over the world: 660 Vespa Clubs from Italy are expected to attend, but there will also be representatives from Australia, Canada, Japan, the USA, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, the Philippines, China, Pakistan, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Kuwait, Morocco, and all European countries.


Nathan graduated with his journalism degree from Auburn University in 2017. After growing up in the flatlands of rural Alabama with his parents and older sister, Nathan enjoys Western Colorado's natural resources and recreational opportunities. He currently covers education and business for The Daily Sentinel.
Dylan Anderson/Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steam rises from the Craig Station just west of Craig, as seen from an EcoFlight tour in February 2022, of the Yampa Valley. Officials are bracing for the closure of the station and the Colowyo Mine that supplies it in 2030, and what that means for the economy of Craig and Moffat County, which has been reliant on the coal industry.
Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy skies during the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low around 55F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph.
How Russia's disinformation campaign seeps into US views

By Tatiana Vorozhko April 11, 2024

On a near daily basis, Scott Cullinane talks with members of Congress about Russia's war in Ukraine. As a lobbyist for the nonprofit Razom, part of his job is to convince them of Ukraine's need for greater U.S. support to survive.

But as lawmakers debated a $95 billion package that includes about $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, Cullinane noticed an increase in narratives alleging Ukrainian corruption. What stood out is that these were the same talking points promoted by Russian disinformation.

So, when The Washington Post published an investigation into an extensive and coordinated Russian campaign to influence U.S. public opinion to deny Ukraine the aid, Cullinane says he was not surprised.

"This problem has been festering and growing for years," he told VOA. "I believe that Russia's best chance for victory is not on the battlefield, but through information operations targeted on Western capitals, including Washington."

The Post investigation is based on more than 100 documents collected by a European intelligence service.

The files exposed a Kremlin-linked campaign in which "political strategists and trolls have written thousands of fabricated news articles, social media posts and comments that promote American isolationism, stir fear over the United States' border security and attempt to amplify U.S. economic and racial tensions," the Post reported.

Social media

One of the main methods for spreading such disinformation is social media, according to Roman Osadchuk, a researcher at the Atlantic Council's Digital Forensic Research Lab and an expert on propaganda and influence campaigns.

"The process begins with a Russian publication on a small website or social media account. This is then picked up by a small Russian Telegram channel, which is subsequently shared by a larger channel with more subscribers," Osadchuk said.

From there, someone will translate the content into English and share it, for example, on X.

"This is how Russian disinformation can quickly spread within the English-speaking X community," Osadchuk said.

In an article published April 8, The Washington Post cited Microsoft and the social media intelligence company Graphika as saying that some articles created within this operation could have been first published on sites known as doppelgangers.

Osadchuk told VOA that these are deceptive replicas of legitimate media websites. They feature fake articles and are often taken down, only to be replaced by clones with slightly different web addresses.

"Nobody would know about these sites' existence unless they are promoted on social media platforms. However, as soon as they detect them, social media block them. So, Russians quickly replace banned sites with their clones," he said.

Worldwide effect

In interviews with U.S. media, two influential Republicans said they believe the propaganda has influenced their base and some of their colleagues.

"It is absolutely true. We see, directly coming from Russia, attempts to mask communications that are anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia messages, some of which we even hear being uttered on the House floor," House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner said in an interview with CNN.

In an interview with the U.S. news website Puck, Michael McCaul, head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said, "Russian propaganda has made its way into the U.S., unfortunately, and it's infected a good chunk of my party's base."

Serhiy Kudelia, a political scientist at Baylor University, says the Kremlin messaging is effective because it plays on existing fears.

He says the disinformation seeks to reinforce already held beliefs such as the wastefulness of aid to Ukraine, or fuels existing anger and energizes opposition to sending assistance.

"When such alignment occurs, it is easier to push through disinformation and invented news stories that would be accepted as credible by a large number of people, including members of Congress, since they reinforce their prior beliefs," Kudelia said.

"Once fabricated stories enter mainstream public debates, they become almost impossible to debunk or separate truth from lies," he said.

The disinformation campaign is similar to ones seen in Europe. Both seek to decrease support for Ukraine, undermine public trust in their institutions and polarize society, says Jakub KalenskA, a senior analyst at Helsinki-based European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats.

KalenskA, who is deputy director of the center's Hybrid Influence team, believes the Kremlin's disinformation activities have a significant effect on politics worldwide.

"This is why Russia employs thousands of people for this activity. This is why they spend billions every year, because they see it works," he said.

But Olga Belogolova, director of the Emerging Technologies Initiative at Johns Hopkins University, says that it is hard to know how effective these propaganda efforts are.

"Russian influence operations are not necessarily always designed to get people to believe anything in particular, but to get them to believe nothing at all," she told VOA. Belogolova added that claims of the efforts being successful in swaying opinion "is not only irresponsible, it's dangerous."

Countermeasures needed

Last month, the U.S. Treasury Department issued sanctions on two people and two companies that it says are connected to a "foreign malign influence campaign." They include Moscow-based Social Design Agency, its founder Ilya Gambashidze, Russia-based Group Structura LLC and its CEO Nikolai Tupikin.

The Social Design Agency and Gambashidze are believed to be involved in the campaign described in the Post article on April 8.

KalenskA advises governments on countering disinformation and says its success requires countermeasures.

These include strengthening detection and documentation of Russian disinformation campaigns, increasing awareness and resilience of audiences to the propaganda efforts, and preventing the aggressor from exploiting weaknesses of social media and societies.

"Finally, we need to impose higher costs on the information aggressors. So far, they are almost unopposed in conducting their aggression," KalenskA said.

For Cullinane, the Russian disinformation campaign makes his job harder. He says the debate about the role the U.S. should play in the world appears to be shifting and invoking pre-World War II isolationism.

But he remains resolute. Part of his work is finding what resonates most with each lawmaker.

"Some offices focus very much on the human rights situation in Ukraine. Many members are very moved by the plight of religious communities in occupied territories of Ukraine and the persecution they face at the hands of the Russian military," Cullinane said. "Other offices are very intrigued by the military reform and the military innovation brought about by an active war in Ukraine."

The national security spending bill is currently awaiting approval in the House.

This story originated in VOA's Ukraine Service.

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April 11, 2024

By C. Todd Lopez, DOD News

DOD Official: Defense Industrial Strategy Already Making Headway in Maritime Space

In January, the DOD released for the first time a National Defense Industrial Strategy, which, among other things, spells out how the department plans to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base. Already, priorities outlined in that plan are having a positive impact on the nation's maritime space, the assistant secretary of defense for industrial base policy said.

The DOD's NDIS is driven by four priorities, including building resilient supply chains, investing in workforce readiness, leveraging flexible acquisition strategies and enabling economic deterrence.

On Wednesday, Laura Taylor-Kale discussed DOD efforts so far on three of those priorities during the 2024 Sea-Air-Space maritime exposition outside Washington.

"Resilient supply chains seek to invest in and strengthen supply chains in order to be able to securely produce the products and services and technologies that we need now and in the future," Taylor-Kale said.

Her office, she said, manages the Defense Production Act along with industrial base analysis and sustainment programs.

"These programs make targeted investments in the industrial base and in critical areas in the supply chain," she said. That includes, for instance, solid rocket motors and chemicals and critical materials needed for weapons systems.

"Through these programs, last year, we invested more than a billion dollars in critical minerals and materials, castings and forgings and microelectronics supply chains," she said.

The recently signed and passed fiscal year 2024 defense appropriations and the FY2025 presidential budget request, Taylor-Kale said, billions of dollars for supply chain investments includes munitions, maritime strike capabilities, shipyard and submarine industrial base improvements and workforce development initiatives.

"Another way to help build industrial base resilience is to engage with our allies and partners, especially our close ones, to expand global defense production and increase supply chain resilience," she said.

The department is doing that now, she said, citing the AUKUS trilateral security partnership among the U.S., U.K. and Australia as an example. The AUKUS partnership, agreed to in 2021, is aimed at fostering technology exchanges among the three nations and also at helping to build Australia's nuclear-powered submarine force.

"We've worked with Congress to make it easier for our defense industrial base to work closely and collaboratively with industry in Australia and the United Kingdom," she said.

Australia is now working to manufacture munitions for the guided multiple launch rocket system, also called GMLRS, she said. And outside AUKUS, the DOD's relationships with partners and allies are yielding other positive outcomes as well.

"Norway is expanding its capacity to produce 155 mm artillery rounds," she said. "And Germany's Rheinmetall is working to build a munitions factory in the Ukraine just to name a few examples."

In the Indo-Pacific, Taylor-Kale pointed to recently announced agreements in place with India and Japan to coproduce and acquire advanced capabilities to strengthen deterrence across the Indo-Pacific and said there are efforts underway to implement major defense initiatives with South Korea and the Philippines as well.

As part of an effort to invest in workforce readiness, Taylor-Kale pointed to a program run out of her office, the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning, or METAL program, which advances efforts to get more young people involved in casting and forging  a critical skill needed to support maritime defense.

"There is a global challenge for skilled workforce," she said. "I hear this all the time, not just from American industry and our colleagues here, but also from international industry as well as our international partners. Younger generations generally show less interest in pursuing manufacturing careers or lack the science, technology, engineering and math skills needed for industrial work."

Casting and forging, Taylor-Kale said, plays an important role in the maritime environment, including construction of offshore platforms, ship hulls, propellers and rudders.

"Through national workforce initiatives like the [METAL] program ... the DOD is introducing younger generations to careers in casting and forging, something that I actually think is really cool and fascinating that we're doing it and we're oftentimes using advanced technologies to help spur interest in these areas," she said.

Supporting economic deterrence, Taylor-Kale pointed out that Congress has named Australia and the U.K. as domestic sources eligible for the Defense Production Act.

"Companies in those countries, as well as in Canada, can apply for [Defense Production Act] grants," she said. "And ... our newly stood-up Defense Industrial Base Consortium ... also accepts proposals from international partners, from the U.K., Canada and Australia."

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Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari Regarding the IDF's New Humanitarian Aid Directives

IDF Press Release

April 11, 2024

11.04.24

IDF

Today, I want to share the next phase of our humanitarian operations,

We have worked together with countries and international organizations from around the world to develop new and improved measures to increase the flow of aid to Gazan civilians by land, sea and air.

Since the October 7th massacre, the IDF has been fighting the Hamas terrorist organization in Gaza.

While Hamas continues to hold 133 hostages and use Gazans as human shields,

Israel continues to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and find new ways to increase this effort:

We are constructing the Northern Crossinga new land crossing from Israel into northern Gazato enable more aid to flow directly to civilians in the areas that have been challenging for trucks to access.

These new measures enable us to bring more aid and trucks destined for Gaza from overseas, including via the land crossing with Jordan, where we expect 50 aid trucks a day to pass through.

Following the cabinet's decision, we have worked with international partners to bring in more aid from the sea via the Port of Ashdod after which it will be transported down to crossings into Gaza.

The combination of these new measures means that we expect the daily average of trucks of food, water, medicine and shelter supplies going into Gaza to go up gradually from 350 per day, to around 500 per day.

All of these efforts are due to close coordination with international partners and aid organizations to maximize our combined humanitarian efforts.

We are cooperating with the U.S. central command in building a temporary-floating-pier on the coast of the Gaza Strip, enabling aid to reach Gaza directly by sea. This humanitarian effort shows the depth of the U.S.-Israel strategic partnership - and the shared values of our two nations.

International airdrops of aid into Gaza are also continuing. So far, over 3,600 packages of food and essentials have been coordinated in 62 airdrops by several countries.

This coordination is complicated and it is complicated further by Hamas' ongoing fire, including toward aid convoys.

We are working together with international organizations to solve the challenges of the distribution of aid inside Gaza, and we are implementing the lessons learned from the tragic incident with the WCK to maximize protection of aid workers and improve real-time cooperation of our humanitarian operations with international organizations.

We have also reiterated our operational procedures regarding humanitarian aid convoys and workers with all our forces.

As we have said since Day One: Israel is at war with Hamas, not the people of Gaza.

Enabling humanitarian aid to reach Gazan civilians is a key part of our operations.

It means that we can strengthen our efforts to bring home all our hostages, and dismantle the Hamas terror organization.

This week, IDF troops who were operating against Hamas terrorists in its Khan Yunis stronghold completed their missions and left Khan Yunis.

This enables us to prepare for future operations to continue dismantling Hamas,

and will enable Gazans who moved from Khan Yunis to Rafah, to return to Khan Yunis. We are working to establish field hospitals, water infrastructure, food and shelter in set areas in central Gaza.

The IDF will continue to do everything we can to bring home our hostages, defeat Hamasand make sure we continue to get as much humanitarian aid as possible

into Gaza for the people of Gaza.





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PM Netanyahu visited the Tel Nof Air Base

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

11.04.2024

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Tel Nof Air Base: We are also prepared for scenarios involving challenges in other sectors. We are prepared, defensively and offensively."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today, visited the Tel Nof Air Base, where he met with the personnel of the 133rd Squadron, which operates F-15s.

The Prime Minister was briefed by the deputy base commander and the squadron commander on its activity during the war.

Prime Minister Netanyahu:

"We are in challenging times. We are in the midst of the war in Gaza, which is continuing at full force, even as we are continuing our relentless efforts to return our hostages. However, we are also prepared for scenarios involving challenges in other sectors. We have determined a simple rule: Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively.

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Cambodia's Hun Sen hits back at criticism about Funan Techo canal

The former prime minister rejects suggestions that the canal will facilitate Chinese naval presence near Vietnam.

By RFA Staff 2024.04.11 -- Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has slammed what he calls attempts to "fabricate the story" about a proposed Chinese-built canal near Vietnam's border.

The former prime minister, who remains a powerful political figure, vehemently rejected suggestions that "the canal will further facilitate the Chinese navy near the Vietnamese border" in a post on social media platform X.

The Funan Techo canal, officially known as the Tonle Bassac Navigation Road and Logistics System Project, will connect the Cambodian coastal province of Kep on the Gulf of Thailand with the inland provinces of Kandal and Takeo, and the capital Phnom Penh via a tributary of the Mekong River.

The 180 kilometer (112 mile) canal is expected to be developed by a Chinese company as a build-operate-transfer (BOT) project at a cost of US$1.7 billion and become operational in 2028. It will see a large amount of Cambodian goods bypass Vietnam's ports, creating some independence for the country's foreign trade.

Vietnam has expressed concerns about the potential environmental and economic impacts of the project, which Phnom Penh sought to dismiss during a visit by Prime Minister Hun Manet to Hanoi in December.

Hun Manet, Hun Sen's second son, reportedly reassured Vietnamese leaders that the project would not impact the Mekong river water system.

Some analysts were quoted in international media as saying that the Funan Techo canal marks a decoupling effort by Cambodia from Vietnam. Hanoi is Phnom Penh's traditional ally and helped install Hun Sen in power in the 1980s but Cambodia has leaned more towards China in recent years.

There were also suggestions that the canal could have a dual use that would allow Chinese naval ships to travel upstream from the Gulf of Thailand to near the border with Vietnam. Kep province is just kilometers from Vietnam's Kien Giang province and the two countries share 1,258 km (781 miles) of land border.

Anti-constitution

In his post on X, Hun Sen wrote that he "would like to remind friends or non-friends" that the presence of Chinese troops on Cambodian soil is unconstitutional.

"Cambodia needs Chinese troops for what?" he asked.

Hun Sen and other Cambodian officials have also previously rejected allegations that China is developing a military base at Ream, Sihanoukville province, calling them "slanderous."

"I don't think he [Hun Sen] is wrong," said Virak Ou, president of Future Forum, a Cambodian NGO.

Ou said he doesn't think the canal would be useful for the Chinese military as "any conflict between China and Vietnam will be played out in the seas and airs."

"Hun Sen's statement seems to be an indirect assurance to Vietnamese leaders that the Funan Techo canal will not be used for military purposes," said Huynh Tam Sang, a lecturer at Vietnam National University, "This statement is made at the time when Vietnam is concerned that Cambodia could help set up a Chinese military base in the region."

"Hun Sen has been adept at walking a tightrope between China and Vietnam," the political analyst told Radio Free Asia.

"Because of its modest influence, Cambodia relies on China for political and economic support. But if Cambodia and Vietnam can keep their relations stable, Cambodia will be able to retain agency while responding to China's demands," Sang added.

Another Vietnamese analyst - Nguyen Khac Giang, visiting fellow at Singapore's Yusof Ishak Institute - said that in his opinion, the apprehension surrounding the Funan Techo canal's potential "dual" use primarily stems from concerns over the possibility of a Chinese military presence in Cambodia rather than concrete projections of how it could be used for military purposes.

"I don't see how the canal - if its announced capacity is true - can pose a serious military threat to Vietnam," Giang said, adding "Hanoi might be more worried about developments in the Ream Naval Base."

Geopolitical chessboard

According to the Vietnamese analyst, there should be bigger concerns about the environmental impacts on Vietnam's Mekong Delta and the possibility of Cambodia moving further away from Vietnam's economic influence as Hanoi has invested considerable effort to maintain close economic ties with Cambodia and Laos.

Meanwhile Brian Eyler, director of the Stimson Center's Southeast Asia Program in Washington D.C. told RFA, "One only has to look at a map to see how the Funan Techo canal alters the regional geopolitical chessboard."

The best way to reduce anxieties, Eyler suggested, is to let the Mekong River Commission - the intergovernmental body in charge of sustainable management of the river - carry out regional consultation as well as a third party technical review of the canal "as required for all projects that touch the mainstream."

Vietnamese authorities should also be careful to "avoid inflaming Cambodia" over the Chinese military presence narrative, warned Huynh Tam Sang from Vietnam National University.

"Vietnam has valid worries, but the Hun Manet government has authority over its infrastructure projects, including the planned Funan Techo canal," Sang said. "Hyperbolizing this problem could backfire as Vietnam could be seen as a troublemaker in the eyes of Cambodian leaders."

Translated by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Van Thinh Phat chairwoman sentenced to death in Vietnam's biggest fraud trial

Truong My Lan masterminded the scam that caused $27 billion in damages, judges said.

By RFA Staff 2024.04.11 -- Truong My Lan, the chairwoman of Vietnamese developer Van Thinh Phat, has been sentenced to death for masterminding a multi-billion-dollar fraud, state-controlled media reported Thursday.

Judges at Ho Chi Minh City's People's Court said she was guilty of bribery, embezzlement and violating banking regulations.

Lan owned a 91.5% stake in Saigon Commercial Bank and, over the course of 10 years, ordered bank officials to approve more than 2,500 loans to shell companies she controlled, causing the bank to lose the equivalent of US$27 billion.

Lan ordered subordinates to bribe auditors at the State Bank of Vietnam to cover her tracks.

Head banking inspector Do Thi Nhan received $5.2 million in bribes, while deputy chief inspector Nguyen Van Hung received $300,000, state media said.

A family member told Reuters Lan planned to appeal the verdict.

Edited by Elaine Chan.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Biden: US will defend Philippines if vessels are attacked

Amid White House talks, Beijing says it will 'resolutely stop' Manila from fixing a dilapidated maritime outpost.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.04.11 -- U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday that American military support for the Philippines was "ironclad," and any attacks against its vessels in the South China Sea would invoke a 1951 treaty that compels each country to come to the other's aid in the event of a conflict.

The comments came ahead of an unprecedented summit between Biden and his Japanese and Philippine counterparts at the White House. A senior U.S. official said the talks were arranged because of the recent flare-up in tensions between Beijing and Manila in the South China Sea.

"I want to be clear, the United States' defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad," Biden said at the opening of the meeting. "Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty."

The U.S. has a mutual defense treaty with the Philippines and a military alliance with Japan, both of which were inked in 1951.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that increased trilateral cooperation between the Pacific nations was borne from their shared democratic values and evidenced by joint military drills in the South China Sea last weekend.

"It is a partnership born not out of convenience nor of expediency," Marcos said, "but as a natural progression of a deepening cooperation amongst our three countries, linked by a profound respect for democracy, good governance and the rule of law."

Water cannon attacks

Chinese coast guard vessels have in recent weeks fired water cannons at Philippine boats attempting to supply a deliberately sunken warship that serves as a Philippine naval outpost at the Second Thomas Shoal (Ayungin Shoal), with Beijing also warning Manila against trying to access it.

The shoal lies in South China Sea waters within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, where Manila holds sovereign rights. But Beijing claims most of the sea as its historic territory and says Manila must ask permission from Chinese authorities to access the area.

Earlier on Thursday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning accused Manila of "violating China's sovereignty" for decades due to the half-sunken BRP Sierra Madre, which was grounded at the shoal in 1999 to maintain Manila's sovereignty but now needs repairs.

Speaking at a daily press briefing, Mao said Chinese authorities were "willing to allow" Philippine vessels to freely access the increasingly dilapidated outpost - but only to "tow" it away, and not repair it.

She said Manila needed to inform Beijing of any such plans before accessing the area, and then "China will monitor the whole process."

"If the Philippines sends a large amount of construction materials to the warship and attempts to build fixed facilities and a permanent outpost, China will not accept it and will resolutely stop it in accordance with law and regulations to uphold China's sovereignty," Mao said.

She added that China's recent "activities" in the South China Sea, such as the water-cannoning of Philippine vessels, "are in full compliance with international law" and "there's nothing wrong about them."

'Crystal clear'

A senior U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity prior to the summit, told reporters that Biden had been "crystal clear" about American military support for Manila, and said the flare-ups with China in the South China Sea were an impetus for Thursday's summit.

"It is one of the reasons for the meeting because we are very concerned about what we've been seeing," the official said.

"He has repeated many times that the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty applies to the South China Sea, including Philippine vessels that may be underway there, including its coast guard vessels," the official said.

Another U.S. official added that Philippine and Japanese coast guard officers would be welcomed aboard U.S. Coast Guard ships during a maritime exercise later this year "to further train and synchronize our work together" in case of a future attack that sparks a conflict.

The two officials also said the United States would help fund a major infrastructure project in the Philippines known as the Luzon corridor, as part of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, which is the U.S. answer to China's high-spending Belt and Road Initiative.

The Luzon corridor, they said, would help connect Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas in the Philippines, with investments in infrastructure "including ports, rail, clean energy, semiconductor supply chains and other forms of connectivity in the Philippines."

"We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Marcos," one of the officials said, "ready to support and work with the Philippines at every turn."

In his final remarks before talks opened behind closed-doors Thursday, Biden said the newfound cooperation between the United States, Japan and the Philippines would be a boon for the Indo-Pacific.

"When we stand as one, we're able to forge a better future for all," he said. "That's what this new trilateral is all about, in my view."

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Ambassador Warns Georgia 'Foreign Agents' Bill 'Incompatible' With EU Values

By RFE/RL's Georgian Service April 11, 2024

The European Union's ambassador to Georgia has criticized the reintroduction of a "foreign agents" bill in parliament -- legislation compared with a similar law in Russia that the Kremlin has used to stifle dissent -- saying it's "incompatible" with the values of the bloc Tbilisi is looking to join.

The ruling party in EU-candidate Georgia last week said it planned to reintroduce a bill that would oblige noncommercial organizations and media outlets that receive foreign funding and are engaged in broadly defined "political" activities to report their activities to the authorities.

The legislation, which sparked mass protests when first introduced last year, causing the government to withdraw the bill, would also introduce wide oversight powers by the authorities and potential criminal sanctions for undefined criminal offenses.

"We are seriously concerned. These are legitimate concerns about transparency, which should not be used to justify the restriction of space and the stigmatization of civil society organizations," Pawel Herczynski said in remarks to the media at a meeting of civil society organizations.

"This bill, as it is now, is incompatible with European norms and European values, and especially in today's context, it will be very difficult for the European Commission to make a positive assessment of the adoption of the law...This law is simply not good."

The ruling Georgian Dream party announced on April 3 that it intended to reintroduce the law in parliament a year after large-scale protests forced the party to abandon its first attempt to pass the law last year.

This year's bill would be identical to last year's, they said, except for one change: the term "foreign agent" would be replaced by the more circumlocutious "organization pursuing the interests of a foreign power."

The party insists the bill is simply copied and pasted from U.S. legislation and does not imitate Russia's "foreign agent" law, but the newly resurrected On Transparency of Foreign Influence bill is, more than anything, a product of Georgia's homegrown struggle for political power.

And its return bodes yet another bout of internal political strife, sharper pressure on the government's opponents, and yet more stress on Tbilisi's increasingly fragile relations with its Western partners.

On April 5, Washington expressed its "deep concern" over the legislation, saying the draft legislation "poses a threat to civil society organizations."

Herczynski said the bloc was in "constant contact" with the Georgian government as it looks to make strides toward eventual membership in the 27-member bloc.

But, he added, "time is running out" even though "all the ingredients are there to make progress" with reforms as Georgia looks to move to the next stage and open accession negotiations.

"These are legitimate concerns about transparency, which should not be used to justify the restriction of space and the stigmatization of civil society organizations," Herczynski said.

"Freedom of speech and media is absolutely necessary for every democracy, including Georgia, especially for a country that is a candidate for EU membership."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/georgia-eu-warning-foreign- agents/32901414.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Ceasefire the only way to end killing and injuring of children in Gaza: UNICEF

11 April 2024 - Advocating for a ceasefire is the best way to support the people of Gaza, including children in the north who are dying of hunger, a Spokesperson for the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Thursday.

Tess Ingram was part of a UNICEF team that was headed to northern Gaza on Tuesday when their vehicle was hit by live ammunition while waiting at a checkpoint.

"Luckily, myself and my colleagues, we were all safe. But this just underscores how dangerous it is for humanitarian aid workers in Gaza at the moment: that incidents like this continue to happen when they absolutely shouldn't," she told UN News, speaking from Rafah in the south.

'Critical mission' rescheduled

The UN has repeatedly warned of looming famine in Gaza, where roughly 70 per cent of the population in the north is going hungry, and as access restrictions persist.

Ms. Ingram said the UNICEF team had hoped to proceed to the region "because it was such a critical mission with nutrition products for the children who were malnourished in the north of Gaza, among other things."

However, after waiting at the holding point for at least another two hours, they decided moving forward was no longer feasible as there would not be enough time to conduct all their activities, and returned to Rafah.

While another mission is being scheduled for the coming days, she stressed the critical need for more aid corridors and, above all, for the fighting to end.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Tess Ingram: It's tragic to see anybody suffering from malnutrition, which is such a painful condition, let alone in a place where malnutrition was almost non-existent before October. And it's now skyrocketed in the north of Gaza, because of disruptions to food production, but also because of restrictions on aid access to that area. We've really struggled to get up there with aid.

And as a result, we know that children are dying of malnutrition there. At least 23 children have reportedly died at the Kamal Adwan Hospital, which is where we were trying to bring these nutrition treatments on Tuesday.

UN News: Is there a particular story that you heard, a particular child that struck you, that that really resonated with you?

Tess Ingram: There's a boy that I met, in the middle area at Al-Aqsa Hospital in Dier Al Balah. His name is Omar. He is seven years old. I wasn't able to speak to him because he was in such a terrible condition, so much pain.

But I talked to his grandmother, and she was telling me that they had just come down from the north 48 hours earlier, and that in the north they had access to barely any food, and they were relying heavily on grass to sustain them. And you could see how sick Omar is. I really hope that he's okay now.

The director of pediatrics at the hospital told me that he hoped that Omar would make a full recovery. But concerningly, he said that 90 percent of the children that they're admitting at the moment have some level of malnutrition, which is just shocking.

UN News: Israel said that it has the intention at least to open the Erez crossing into northern Gaza. Has this materialized yet? Were you able to get anything in to relieve the situation?

Tess Ingram: No, not yet - and that is such a critical step. We really need that crossing to be open, so that we can increase the volume of aid, but also so that we have direct access straight into the north. And that's important for two reasons. One, it'll allow us to bring aid in faster, and at scale to these children and families in the north who desperately need food and nutrition supplies. But also, it will prevent us, as the UN, having to drive through the whole Gaza Strip with our aid, which is important in such a dangerous place.

UN News: So, you've seen these children, you've seen the conditions there. Is there still time to avoid the famine that the UN has been warning about, or are we already too late?

Tess Ingram: Look, it's really hard to know. We've said that a famine could happen at any moment between now and May, and I think that still holds in the north of Gaza. For the south, the risk of famine is there. But I think we can still prevent it if we can just flood the Gaza Strip with aid. There is still time to prevent a famine in the middle and south of Gaza.

UN News: We've been hearing many calls on the international stage for increased humanitarian access, increased humanitarian aid, in Gaza, but this has been to no avail. What needs to happen to make that happen?

Tess Ingram: Well, the best way to make that happen is the ceasefire. It is the only way to end the killing and injuring of children. It is the best way to ensure that we can bring in more aid and to distribute that aid at scale, safely to all of the children and families in Gaza in need.

UN News: You visited hospitals in Gaza, and we know that the healthcare system in the Strip is on the verge of collapse. Can you tell us what that means in practical terms, and in real-life terms?

Tess Ingram: In real-life terms, what that means is doctors are struggling to provide the care that they want to, and that they're used to in Gaza. It means that supplies are running out. It means that staff are unable to be paid salaries, and many more of them are having to become volunteers. And that's not sustainable because they have to be able to support their families in such desperate conditions.

It means that children are dying without the appropriate medical care, or they're unable to receive treatment that they need. For example, I met a girl at the European Hospital this week. Her name's Juri and she's nine years old. She is from Rafah, here, at the south of the Gaza Strip.

And despite this being an area where there hasn't been a ground offensive yet, she was in a building, her grandparents' house, that was struck. And Juri said the last thing she remembers is playing with birds in a cage at the house, and then waking up in European hospital.

And she has so many broken bones - the right side of her face and her arm and her wrist. But on the left side of her body, where she was struck by the impact of the blast, she has enormous open wounds that haven't been able to be treated in Gaza.

When I met her, it had been 16 days since the incident. And she was still lying in a hospital bed with very painful, large, open wounds, waiting, hoping that she might be able to be evacuated from Gaza to get the treatment that she needs. But this has to be unacceptable to the world that a nine-year-old girl who was just visiting her grandparents ends up with such a traumatic injury that cannot be treated, and she's still waiting for help.

UN News: You spoke about the fact that Rafah currently doesn't have a ground offensive, and there are growing fears, of course, that this incursion is going to happen after the government announced that it actually has a date for that operation. How is UNICEF preparing itself to deal with that?

Tess Ingram: We're preparing contingency plans. We're trying to strategize about how we'll continue to do our job. We don't intend to go anywhere. We're going to stay and deliver and make sure that we can continue to provide support to the children and families of Gaza.

UN News: With regard to education, the UN notes that 100 per cent of children in Gaza are out of school. Do you think we lost a generation in Gaza?

Tess Ingram: Look, 625,000 students haven't had access to education since October. And when I meet kids here, one of the first things they tell me is how much they miss school - miss learning, miss their friends, what their favourite subject used to be.

These children want to learn. They want to go back to school. But the longer it goes, the harder it becomes. So, we really need to make sure that these children can go back to school as soon as possible in formal learning, but in the meantime have some sort of temporary learning. And that's what we're trying to set up at the moment as UNICEF.

UN News: Of course, with the attention on the immediate catastrophe at hand, longer-term effects can sometimes be overlooked. What are some of those long-term effects that UNICEF is expecting on children in Gaza? Is there anything being done now to address them once the guns fall silent?

Tess Ingram: I think something that's often overlooked is the mental health impact of this war. And we know that children are experiencing repeated trauma, which will certainly have long-term impacts.

If you think about other conflicts around the world, a child may experience one or two incidences of trauma, but generally, then they're able to flee to safety.

But in Gaza, children are trapped and they're not able to leave. And every day they're experiencing some form of trauma - whether that's, an explosion, losing a family member, not knowing whether somebody is okay - living with that fear day in, day out definitely impacts them. And it can have developmental impacts on their bodies as well. So, this is something that we're very concerned about.

We're working now to try and mitigate it in the small ways that we can. We can't yet provide counselling because children aren't safe. But what we're doing at the moment is providing recreational activities and psychosocial support in groups so that children can come together and play, or do arts and crafts or drama, or simply counsel each other if they're a bit older, and just for a moment have a sense of community or a sense of childhood.

I've seen it, and it's a really nice thing to witness - these children laughing and smiling amid the horror around us.

UN News: Many people want to do something about this situation, but they feel helpless. What can they do to support Gazans?

Tess Ingram: I think the most important thing that we need to do is to continue advocating for a ceasefire - through whatever channels you are able to - to continue to call for an end to the fighting, because that really is the only way that we're going to be able to end this situation, and end the fear and the death and the destruction for the children of Gaza.

But until that happens, the other thing that's really important is support for the humanitarian agencies on the ground. We're all here doing our best to try and help the people of Gaza, and we need the international community's support to continue that work.

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Press Statement on Humanitarian Workers and Threat of Famine in Gaza

Press Release

Security Council

SC/15658

11 April 2024

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Vanessa Frazier (Malta):

The members of the Security Council expressed grave concern over the Israeli air strikes that killed seven team members of the World Central Kitchen. These horrific attacks brought the number of humanitarian personnel killed in Gaza during the ongoing conflict to at least 224, more than three times as many humanitarian aid workers killed in any single conflict recorded in a single year. The members of the Security Council underlined the need for accountability for all of these incidents, and noted that Israel has announced the initial results of an investigation into the incident of 1 April 2024. They stressed the need for a full, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the incident, that is fully publicized.

The members of the Security Council expressed sincere condolences to the relatives and friends of all who had lost their lives since the start of hostilities on 7 October 2023.

The members of the Security Council also demanded that all parties to the conflict fully respect the protected status of humanitarian workers, facilities, and operations under international law, abide by humanitarian notification and deconfliction mechanisms, and immediately remediate any deficiencies in these mechanisms.

The members of the Security Council recognized the outstanding and admirable efforts of all humanitarian, medical and United Nations workers serving in Gaza and acknowledged the extremely difficult and dangerous conditions under which they are operating, as well as the tremendous courage they continued to demonstrate in pursuing their lifesaving mission.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their deep concern over the human toll of the conflict, the catastrophic humanitarian situation, and the threat of imminent famine in Gaza and called for the immediate lifting of all barriers to the delivery of humanitarian aid at scale to the civilian population and to the unhindered distribution of such assistance. They took note of the announcement by Israel to open the Erez crossing and allow the use of the Ashdod port for aid deliveries into Gaza, but stressed that more should be done to bring the required relief given the scale of needs in Gaza. Council members insisted on the need to immediately and fully implement this decision in a sustained manner, and reiterated their demand to the parties to allow, facilitate and enable the immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip, consistent with resolution 2720 (2023).

The members of the Security Council called for full respect of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. They underlined their demands for an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan respected by all parties leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire, and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs, and for the parties to comply with their obligations under international law in relation to all persons they detain, in line with resolution 2728 (2024).

The members of the Security Council further reiterated their full support for the work of Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, in line with resolution 2720 (2023). They also underlined their support for the lifesaving efforts of all UN personnel and agencies, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), that are working to deliver humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.

The members of the Security Council condemned all violence and hostilities against civilians, and all acts of terrorism. They emphasized the imperative of all parties immediately and fully implementing resolutions 2728 (2024), 2720 and 2712 (2023).



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Biden, Marcos announce infrastructure plans to counter Chinese projects

By Patsy Widakuswara April 11, 2024

Months after Manila withdrew from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, Washington announced a set of infrastructure projects in the Philippines, the first under an initiative to accelerate investments in partner countries in the Indo-Pacific.

The infrastructure projects, known as PGI Luzon corridor, were announced by U.S. President Joe Biden as he hosted Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday.

"It means more jobs for people across the entire region," Biden said. "It means more investment in sectors critical to our future clean energy, ports, railroads, agriculture and much more."

Marcos is seen as much closer to Washington than his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. Last year, he skipped a BRI summit in Beijing that marked the 10th anniversary of China's $1 trillion international infrastructure-building program.

"We seek to identify ways of growing our economies and making them more resilient, climate-proofing our cities and our societies, sustaining our development progress," he said at the trilateral summit.

PGI is an initialism for Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, an initiative that offers grants, federal financing and private sector investment to partner countries. It was launched in 2021 by the U.S. and G7 partners under the title "Build Back Better World" and billed as an alternative to China's BRI.

PGI Luzon corridor

PGI Luzon corridor is the first project of its kind in the Indo-Pacific and will "connect Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas in the Philippines to accelerate coordinated investments in high-impact infrastructure projects, including ports, rail, clean energy, semiconductors, supply chains and other forms of connectivity in the Philippines," a senior administration official said during a briefing on Wednesday. The official asked for anonymity in speaking to reporters.

The official did not provide more details on the project but noted "it will take some time" to secure investments. She highlighted a recent U.S. trade and investment mission to the Philippines that announced "more than $1 billion" in combined investments to promote the Philippines' innovation economy, clean energy transition and supply chain resilience.

Rebecca Ray, senior researcher with the Global China Initiative at the Boston University Global Development Policy Center, said that PGI Luzon corridor could lead to "healthy competition among major sources of lending and investment globally."

Those lending sources now recognize that developing countries "need support in overcoming hard infrastructure bottlenecks for industrialization," she told VOA.

The U.S. and Japan will also provide funding for technology in the Philippines that will improve wireless communication throughout the region, the official said.

In addition, the official said, the Development Finance Corporation, a U.S. development bank that partners with the private sector, will open its first regional office in the Philippines.

If the U.S. can sustain its focus and investments, PGI will be quite beneficial to the Philippines, said Derek Grossman, a senior analyst at the Rand Corporation, an American global policy research group.

"That said, we have seen numerous funding battles to get funds passed through Congress on these types of programs," he told VOA. "And thus, this essential part is hardly guaranteed."

Manila out of BRI

As ties with Beijing become increasingly strained over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, Manila announced in November that it has given up on Chinese funding for three major transportation projects, expressing confidence in securing financial backing elsewhere.

Even so, Chinese investment in the Philippines does not appear to be waning, Ray said, citing Chinese firm Yadea's 2023 announcement of a $1 billion investment in e-motorcycle manufacturing, the second-largest investment in the Philippines for the year.

The Biden administration said it mobilized billions of dollars of U.S. private sector investments in the Indo-Pacific, including from Vena Energy, a company developing 2.4GW of renewable-energy projects in the Philippines.

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Biden hosts Japanese, Philippine leaders to discuss China's aggression

By Patsy Widakuswara April 11, 2024

U.S. President Joe Biden hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House on Thursday, aiming to send China a clear message that it must halt its aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.

"United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad," Biden said at the trilateral summit.

There has been rising tension between Manila and Beijing. In recent weeks, Chinese Coast Guard ships have taken provocative actions to block resupply missions for Philippine soldiers stationed on the Second Thomas Shoal, who guard Manila's sovereignty claims over the Spratly Islands.

"Facing the complex challenges of our time requires concerted efforts on everyone's part, a dedication to a common purpose and an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order," Marcos said, couching his words in diplomatic terms often used to target Beijing.

"Multilayered cooperation between allies and like-minded countries is essential if we are to maintain and bolster a free and open international order based on the rule of law," Kishida reiterated.

Chinese intimidation known as "gray zone tactics" falls dangerously close to triggering a 1951 mutual defense treaty between Washington and Manila. Biden underscored U.S. commitment to the pact.

"Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea will invoke our mutual defense treaty," he said.

The leaders announced new deterrence measures, including on maritime defense, alongside investments in infrastructure projects in the Philippines and collaboration on global humanitarian assistance efforts.

This is Marcos' second time at the Biden White House, following his visit in May last year. He is seen as much more closely aligned with Washington than his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

The Marcos government essentially doubled American access to Philippine bases earlier this year, announcing four new military bases on top of the five existing locations. Manila is also negotiating with Japan for a reciprocal access arrangement to allow Japanese forces on Philippine soil.

Similar situations

Kishida 's country faces similar Chinese gray zone tactics around disputed islands in the East China Sea, called Diaoyu in China and Senkaku in Japan. In a joint address to the U.S. Congress earlier Thursday, he warned of risks from the rise of China and pledged to do more to share defense responsibilities.

Key to the leaders' discussions Thursday is working toward a shared understanding of what constitutes gray zone attacks and the treaty's enforcement threshold.

"We continue to coordinate very closely the question of China's so-called gray zone tactics, its coercive tactics, and what the implications of those might be," a senior administration official said in response to VOA's question during a briefing Wednesday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity.

The U.S.-Philippines treaty extends to "armed attacks on Philippines Armed Forces, public vessels or aircraft," the official underscored. "That includes its Coast Guard, and that includes anywhere in the South China Sea."

Washington has been increasingly concerned about China's actions. While in the region last year, Vice President Kamala Harris stopped by Palawan island in the Philippines, just 330 kilometers east of the disputed Spratly Islands , in a rebuke to Beijing.

Blurring lines of attacks

China's gray zone tactics have blurred the lines of what are traditionally seen as armed attacks by using force that may not be intentionally lethal, such as military grade lasers, acoustic devices, high-pressure water cannons or simply ramming into ships, said Gregory Poling, director of the Southeast Asia Program and Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

"The problem is that these things are only nonlethal in a statistical sense," Poling told VOA. "But if you do it enough, you will kill somebody."

Manila and Washington would then need to determine whether to invoke mutual defense under the treaty, he added.

Both sides are realizing that "China has blurred the lines so much with its Coast Guard and militias," he added, saying, "We can't treat China the way we treat normal armed actors, that China intentionally hides its military force behind civilians, and that we need to be more flexible in our responses."

Discussions are ongoing under the Maritime Security Framework signed by the U.S. and the Philippines in 2022. Known also as "Guardian of the Sea," or "Bantay Dagat" in Tagalog, the agreement aims to improve regional maritime domain awareness and confront maritime challenges together.

Last year, the U.S. and Philippine secretaries of defense established guidelines reaffirming that "an armed attack in the Pacific, including anywhere in the South China Sea, on either of their public vessels, aircraft or armed forces  which includes their Coast Guards  would invoke mutual defense commitments under Articles IV and V of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty."

However, there is no clear shared definition of gray zone tactics, which are challenging to incorporate into mutual defense treaties, said Shihoko Goto, director of the Indo-Pacific Program at the Wilson Center.

She told VOA there is greater focus on enhancing cyber defense and other nonkinetic capabilities for deterrence purposes. The summit will clarify established norms of conduct for protecting territorial boundaries, she added.

Dialogue with Beijing

Ahead of their trilateral summit with Marcos, Biden hosted Kishida for meetings and a state dinner Wednesday.

The pair insist on fostering dialogue with Beijing, even as the U.S. and Japan ramp up defense ties.

In their latest phone conversation in April, Biden said he discussed with Chinese President Xi Jinping the "best way to reduce the chances of miscalculation and misunderstanding."

The U.S. alliance with Japan is "purely defensive," Biden said during a joint news conference Wednesday. "It's not aimed at any one nation or a threat to the region."

Speaking through an interpreter Wednesday, Kishida said he and Biden "agreed that our two countries will continue to respond to challenges concerning China through close coordination."

They announced initiatives to enhance bilateral defense ties and maritime cooperation in the South China Sea, as well as joint air missile and defense systems between the U.S., Japan and Australia.

Beijing said it opposes "cobbling together exclusive groupings and stoking bloc confrontation in the region."

"Such practices - patching up small blocs, stirring up confrontation under the excuse of cooperation, upholding peace and order in name but flexing military muscle and stoking chaos in nature - do not meet the trend for peace and development and run counter to the regional countries' shared aspiration for stability and development," Liu Pengyu, a Chinese Embassy spokesperson in the U.S., said in a statement to VOA.

The U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral is the first gathering of its kind, part of Biden's strategy to stitch together existing bilateral alliances into these "minilaterals" to amplify U.S. influence in Asia. Last year, he hosted a similar meeting with Japan and South Korea to deal with the threat from North Korea.

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Turkey-Israel disagreement over Gaza hits trade relations

By Ezel Sahinkaya April 11, 2024

Tensions between Israel and Turkey over the war in Gaza are at risk of escalating into an all-out trade war, threatening a bilateral economic relationship that has long been nurtured even as the countries bicker over political issues.

On Tuesday, Turkey's Trade Ministry announced new restrictions on exporting 54 product groups, including aluminum, steel, several construction products, jet fuel and chemical fertilizers, to Israel.

Some experts think Ankara has historically separated political problems from economic relations in its stance on Israel, but recent announcements show a policy shift.

"Turkey's decision was negatively received in Israel as the two countries are important trade partners, and until now, Ankara has put a barrier between tensions on the political level and trade relations," Gallia Lindenstrauss, a senior research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) in Israel, told VOA.

The restrictions came a day after Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Israel had prevented Turkey from airdropping aid to Gaza and vowed to take measures against Israel until there was a cease-fire and permanent flow of aid into the territory. Israel has not responded to Fidan's statement.

Alan Makovsky, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, said he saw Turkey's export restrictions as a response to domestic politics.

"I would find it hard to believe that Turkey could seriously think that Israel would approve of allowing Turkey to participate in airdrops. When there's an airdrop, Israel does not review what is in the airdrop, so it is only countries that they would really trust from a security standpoint that they would give clearance to. At least, I believe that's the case," Makovsky said.

"If Turkey did apply, I am sure they knew when they applied that there was no way Israel would approve it," he said. "I suspect they used that as a cover for what is really a domestic political decision."

Makovsky was referring to the success of the Islamist New Welfare Party (YRP) in last month's local elections in Turkey. YRP, which came third, was vocal in criticizing Erdogan for not cutting off trade with Israel during the campaign.

Trade with Israel

In a post on X, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said, "We will respond accordingly and prepare an extended list of additional products that Israel will prevent Turkey from exporting."

Makovsky said that trade between Israel and Turkey in recent years has become "increasingly unbalanced in Turkey's favor."

The two countries signed a free-trade agreement in 1996. According to the state-run Turkish Statistical Institute, Turkey's exports to Israel were worth $5.4 billion in 2023, while Israel's exports to Turkey were worth $1.6 billion the same year.

"In terms of replacing materials, the burden is going to be greater on Israel, but there could be economic problems for Turkey, obviously, if these sales do not go through," Makovsky said.

"I also wonder what message it sends to international investors if Turkey suddenly prevents private contracts from being carried out for political reasons. That may not be a great thing for the Turkish economy," he said.

Some experts said the restrictions would broadly affect Israel's construction sector.

"Regarding some materials, such as cement, Israel is highly dependent on imports from Turkey. Israel can find alternatives, but they will cost more, and it may take time till it finds the relevant substitutes," INSS's Lindenstrauss told VOA.

According to the Israel Builders Association, Israel imports around 70% of its iron construction materials and about a third of its cement needs from Turkey. Turkey has also been one of the leading steel providers to Israel.

US involvement

Israeli Foreign Minister Katz said he asked "Israel's friends in the U.S. Congress to examine Turkish violation of boycott laws against Israel and impose sanctions accordingly."

Eugene Kontorovich, a law professor at George Mason University's Scalia Law School, said he thought that Turkey's action "most probably violates the World Trade Organization's agreements," but not U.S. federal laws.

"As for a U.S. response, it is unlikely that Turkey's selective export restrictions on products to Israel violate U.S. federal anti-boycott laws; state laws simply do not deal with boycotts imposed by countries," Kontorovich told VOA.

Thirty-eight U.S. states have laws prohibiting states from contracting or investing in entities that boycott Israel.

Some analysts think that given the debate in Washington over sending aid to Israel, it is unlikely that Congress will take measures against Turkey.

"They have got a lot of things on their plate, and it seems to me unlikely that punishing Turkey for sanctions against Israel is going to be high on the congressional agenda anytime soon," Makovsky said.

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Mexico calling on UN to expel Ecuador over embassy raid

By VOA News April 11, 2024

Mexico is asking the United Nations to suspend Ecuador's membership in the international body until the Ecuadorian government publicly apologizes for raiding the Mexican Embassy in Quito, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said on Thursday.

The demand is part of a case Mexico is presenting Thursday to the International Court of Justice, the U.N.'s top court, over the raid.

On April 5, Ecuadorian authorities raided Mexico's embassy in Quito in order to arrest former Vice President Jorge Glas, who had been granted political asylum in Mexico. Diplomatic relations between Ecuador and Mexico have been suspended since the incident.

"Mexico is accusing [Ecuador] of violating the diplomatic immunity of its embassy," Barcena said. She referred to the raid as "a violation that is not justified anywhere."

The Ecuadorian government, meanwhile, has argued that corruption charges facing Glas mean the asylum protection was actually illegal. A convicted criminal, Glas took refuge in Mexico's embassy in December.

Ecuadorian Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld said Ecuador stood by its actions and that an apology to Mexico "is not something that is under discussion at this moment."

Speaking at the U.N. Security Council, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador urged the court to approve the expulsion.

"The court, in accordance with the United Nations charter, should approve the expulsion, and there should be no veto" from the U.N. Security Council, Lopez Obrador said.

Luis Almagro, the secretary general of the Organization of American States, said it was important to not allow Ecuador's raid on the Mexican embassy to set a precedent.

"The use of force, the illegal incursion into a diplomatic mission, nor the detention of an asylee are the peaceful ways toward resolution of this situation," he said.

Some information in this report came from the Associated Press.

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WFP ramps up food assistance in Haiti as hunger reaches record highs

World Food Programme

11 April 2024

Port-au-Prince -- Amidst ongoing violence in Haiti, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has rapidly expanded its food assistance, reaching more than half a million people since the start of the current crisis in March this year. WFP is reaching vulnerable communities with food distributions including hot meals for people living in temporary shelters in conflict-affected Port-au-Prince, cash disbursements and school meals.

Despite efforts to prioritize food purchases from local producers, WFP is concerned that its food stocks risk running out by the end of April. WFP has only enough food in the country to feed 175,000 people for one month. The closure of Haiti's main port and airport in Port-au-Prince about a month ago has disrupted the flow of supplies into the country.

"WFP is doing everything possible to reach the most vulnerable people, but at the current rate we will run out of food stocks by the end of April. We need the port in the capital to reopen immediately to bring in fresh supplies. We also need unimpeded access to transport food across the country to ensure the continuity of our programmes," said Jean-Martin Bauer, WFP's Country Director in Haiti.

Key elements of WFP's operations in Haiti since 1 March:

WFP has provided food to over 500,000 people across the country.

560,000 hot meals were distributed to over 80,000 people in Port-au-Prince and other locations.

290,000 children received hot meals in schools, where WFP has prioritized locally purchased food.

80,000 people in the Grand Anse Department, where emergency levels of food insecurity (IPC4) were recently reported, received cash under WFP's social protection programme.

WFP purchased over 520 metric tons of food from local producers, valued at approximately US$ 1million, enough to feed more than 160,000 school children.

WFP has a five-year roadmap to tackle hunger in Haiti, by working with the government to engage local farmers, providing cash transfers that stimulate the local economy and building social safety nets that boost families' resistance to shocks.

Background:

Food prices in Haiti are skyrocketing, driving affordable meals out of reach for millions of families. According to a WFP market analysis, the price of maize from March 2023 to March 2024 increased by 42 percent, and that of rice by 35 percent.

Violence continues to erode food security. More than two in three households saw significant income drops, and seven in ten departments reported higher food prices than in January.

The first ever IPC acute malnutrition analysis of Haiti found that nearly 277,000 children under 2 are facing or expected to face acute malnutrition by November 2024, including 125,000 children who are severely malnourished.

Food insecurity in Haiti has reached levels not seen since the 2010 earthquake, with half of the population or 5 million people acutely food insecure, according to the March 2024 Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report.

# # #

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

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Operation Iron Swords - Day 188 - 11 April 2024

At any point, Hamas could have ended this burgeoning tragedy to

surrender and release every hostage.

Hamas instigated and owns this humanitarian catastrophe.

Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA)

Three sons and four grandchildren of Hamas politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh were killed in an Israeli airstrike that targeted a vehicle in al-Shati refugee camp in north of Gaza. Haniyeh, who is based in Qatar and represents Hamas in international meetings and negotiations, said in a statement that blood of his children and grandchildren would create hope and freedom for the people and the cause of Palestine. Haniyeh stated when asked whether their killing would affect the talks, "Our Palestinian people have their interests before anything, and our sons and daughters are part of this people and part of this process."

IDF spokesman, Brigadier General Daniel Hagari was asked: "Was it correct to approve the elimination of Haniyeh's sons at a political level - chief of staff, commanding general, and not lieutenant colonel, given the sensitive timing. A: Haniyeh's sons are terrorists, commanders in the field of terrorist activity, they intended in real time to carry out terrorist operations and terrorist infrastructure. One of them is involved in holding hostages during the war. They are terrorists and therefore they were attacked, according to the instructions and orders."

Saapir Lipkin reported for Israeli N12 TV news that since the assassination of three of Ismail Haniyeh's sons it was evident that Hamas has adopted a strategy that will help it turn the attack that harmed the senior's family into an event that actually helps him, at least outwardly. He is taking advantage of the IDF airstrike to strengthen his image in Gaza and in front of the international community that has been hurt in recent months.

The news of the death of three of Haniyeh's children - Amir, Muhammad and Hazem, caught the head of the political bureau of Hamas during his visit to the hospital in Doha. Within a short time of learning about it, he already decided to release a video from there showing the moment when he receives this news. "May God make it easy for them, may God forgive them," said Haniyeh, the man who has long been considered a symbol of the terrorist organization.

Haniyeh already went on air on the Qatari Al-Jazeera network, where he was heard lamenting their deaths and claiming that their elimination would not affect the negotiations for a deal - in an attempt to portray himself as a stable and strong leader who did not surrender after an Israeli attack. "If the enemy thinks that attacking my sons, whom Allah gave them the honor of being martyrs, will push Hamas to change its position - then he is delusional," he clarified. Hamas knows how to leverage this type of assassination to strengthen its position in the Palestinian and Arab arena. His information system issued statements in a flash last night, about every condolence call Hania received from the leaders of the region.

He stressed: We are on the path to liberating Al-Quds Al-Sharif and Al-Aqsa Mosque. We will not hesitate and we will not retreat. The blood of my children and grandchildren is a sacrifice for the liberation of Al-Quds Al-Sharif and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Haniyeh can position himself at the heart of the consensus, after in the last six months he has been criticized internally and externally for the fact that he is staying in luxury hotels in Doha - while the Gazans are dealing with the war in the Gaza Strip and are busy surviving.

Various resistance groups erupted in a chorus of condemnation and condolence after the Israeli airstrike, pledging allegiance to Hamas and asserting that such atrocities would not dent the Palestinian nations resolve to defeat the occupation. A Saudi activist defined it this way: "The move was recorded in front of the camera as soon as he received the news of his sons' death to show the suffering residents of Gaza as if 'we are with you' and to gain sympathy that glorifies Hamas and promote false victories."

Ibrahim al-Madhoun, a commentator close to Hamas, clarified that "the elimination of Haniyeh's sons and grandsons will increase his determination, resistance and stability, and not weaken his support. He told the leaders and Hamas in one of the meetings that 'I am ready to sacrifice my family and my loved ones for the sake of my issue and my people.' Despite his humanity and love for his children, Hania is charismatic, and he sees himself as the Hand."

"Where are those who rose up against you and accused your children of enjoying themselves in hotels?" Al-Madhoun is not alone. It is evident that this news evoked empathy for the plot that allegedly "paid" with the lives of his family - even though the IDF clarified that all three served as operatives in the military wing of Hamas who were on their way to carry out terrorist activities in the center of the Gaza Strip.

"Where are those who stood up against you and accused your children of enjoying themselves in luxury hotels and on the beaches of Turkey? This gave us a lesson in stability, steadfastness and patience," wrote a Palestinian active in the networks. Adham Abu Salmiya, a Gazan influencer, added: "Those who slandered Ismail Haniyeh, his honor and his children, may Allah humiliate them in public. We will not forgive them. Continue your wailing, the free people will continue their jihad, resistance and demonstrations until the removal of your Zionist masters".

And yet, other voices are also heard in the Arab world after the elimination of Haniya's sons, but they are considered relatively rare. "I am amazed by the Egyptians who sympathize with the news of the death of the Haniya children. He caused the destruction of Gaza and is the cause of the death of thousands, and now he is running away from American bases," wrote an Egyptian resident.

The Israeli bombardment that killed the sons of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas leader signified yet again the Israeli regimes savagery, Irans president said. In a message addressed to Hamas politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh on Wednesday, Ebrahim Raisi offered condolences on the deaths earlier in the day of Haniyehs three sons and their children in a refugee camp in Gaza as a result of an Israeli airstrike.

Undoubtedly, this crime made clearer the savage and child-killing psyche of this regime, he said in the message, adding that the Israeli regime continues to resort to any action it deems necessary to save itself from the collapse quagmire. The Iranian president also condemned the inaction and silence of the so-called advocates of human rights in the world in the face of the unprecedented crimes committed by the Israeli regime in Gaza.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian offerd condolences over the martyrdom of Hamas political bureau chiefs sons and grandchildren in an Israel strike. The martyrdom of the Hamas leaders family members serves as a precursor to divine assistance and victory for the Palestinian nation, and a source of eternal shame, defeat, abasement, and ignominy for the criminal Zionists and their supporters, he said. Such instances of sacrifice will undoubtedly increase the Palestinian nations steely faith and resolve to (exercise) steadfastness and resistance towards liberation of the dear Palestine and will speed up the foundationless Zionist regimes inevitable defeat and collapse, concluded the message.

Israeli media reported, on Thursday, that the Israeli raid that killed 3 sons of the head of the Hamas political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, in the Gaza Strip, was carried out without consulting senior commanders or political leaders, especially Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Walla news website quoted senior Israeli officials as saying that Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Galant did not know in advance about the air strike, which was coordinated between the Israeli army and the Internal Security Agency (Shin Bet).

The website said that Amir, Muhammad, and Hazem Haniyeh "were targeted because they were fighters, and not because they were the sons of the head of the political bureau of the Hamas movement." The army did not comment on reports about the killing of 4 of Haniyehs grandchildren in the same operation. There has been no comment yet from the Israeli Prime Minister's Office or the army on the Walla news website report.

War Termination

Yaron Avraham reported for Israeli N12 TV news that in Jerusalem, it is estimated that the leader of Hamas in Gaza is deliberately delaying his answer to the new proposal for a hostage deal, and is waiting to see how Iran will respond to the assassination of a senior member of the Revolutionary Guards. According to Israeli sources, Sinwar hopes for an Iranian response to the assassination in Damascus of Hassan Mahdavi, commander of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards. "Sinvar has not given up his ambition to see a regional war here, and he is pinning his hopes on the Iranian attack and the Israeli response, which could lead to the "unification of the sectors"."

Haniyeh said that the negotiations are continuing on the basis of the constants set by the Hamas movement, which are the declaration of an explicit and permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation army from the Gaza Strip, the return of the displaced without conditions, the entry of aid and the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, and the conclusion of a logical exchange deal. Informed sources reported that Hamas will continue to cling to these demands in a diplomatic response to the mediators and will therefore practically reject the recent US-Egyptian paper of proposals.

Two Israeli officials told Reuters on Wednesday that Israel agreed, during talks in Egypt about a ceasefire in Gaza, to concessions regarding the return of the Palestinians to the northern Gaza Strip, but believes that Hamas does not want to reach an agreement. The two officials familiar with the talks said that under a US proposal for a truce, Israel would allow the return of 150,000 Palestinians to northern Gaza without security checks. They added that in return, Hamas will be asked to provide a list of the names of the women, elderly and sick hostages it is holding who are still alive. The two officials said that the Israeli assessment is that Hamas does not want to reach an agreement yet. For its part, Hamas said on Tuesday that the latest proposal it received from the Egyptian and Qatari mediators does not meet the demands, but that it will study it more deeply before responding. The movement demands an end to the Israeli military attack, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes.

Hamas politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh told Reuters: We are seeking that (an agreement), but until this moment, the Zionist enemy is procrastinating and evading responding to the demands to provide the required entitlement to reach an agreement.

The Israeli army may not be able to create a security buffer zone with Gaza as initially planned, according to a new report. Sources in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Southern Command reportedly told local news outlet Walla! that due to shortages in manpower as well as legal obstacles, the planned 1-kilometer no man's land may only be 500 meters wide in some areas. Israeli officials had promised at the outset of the war to establish a buffer zone, one of the security provisions meant to reassure the residents of the border area who suffered the attack on October 7 and have long born the brunt of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket attacks, meant to replicate the security area along Israel's northern border.

Former Israeli Minister of Justice, Haim Ramon, said that the war launched by Benjamin Netanyahus government on the Gaza Strip ended in a strategic defeat (for Israel). In response to a question about whether the war was over, Ramon said: Unfortunately, yes. Unfortunately, there is a tactical victory, but there is also a strategic defeat . We did not achieve any of the goals set by the government, according to the Hebrew newspaper Maariv.

He added: The ground attack began in the wrong way, and only moved heavily to the north of the Gaza Strip . He continued: We transferred a million and a half refugees to the south, and now we will not go to Rafah in the south because there are a million and a half displaced people. It is not an American problem, it is our problem in how we deal with them. He added: Six months ago we went to this war and there was one thing: the collapse of the Hamas movement militarily. They dealt our army severe blows to it, but it is still standing on its feet.

Ramon said: The goal was to eliminate civilian Hamas, which controls humanitarian aid, considering that it is impossible for Hamas to collapse without temporary civilian rule. He added: We were also unable to bring down civilian Hamas. We said that there would be military pressure, and the pressure would lead to the release of Jewish prisoners, and this did not happen either, and the goals of the war were not achieved after six months, and at this time, we are in great trouble.

He pointed out that we have not even begun to overthrow Hamas, and said: In my opinion, after six months and in light of everything that happened and certainly in light of the failure of October 7, this is the moment when the Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces (Herzi Halevy) must bear responsibility, as he announced. By himself". He said: If this happens, there will be a chain of reactions at the military level, but also at the political level.

Operational Update

IDF spokesman, Brigadier General Daniel Hagari: "Tonight I will refer to the various publications and reports about the preparation for a response from Iran. First of all, it is important to say - there is no change in the instructions for the rear. We are alert and highly prepared for a variety of scenarios, and we constantly assess the situation. Prepared and ready in attack and defense in a variety of capacities of the IDF, and also prepared with our strategic partners. This morning the commander of the Central Command of the United States Army, General Michael Eric Korilla, arrived in Israel and together with the Chief of Staff held a strategic situational assessment of the security challenges in the region. Our strategic relationship with the United States military, firm and close, and as it has been manifested since the beginning of the war - it is measured in actions.

"For years, and even more so during the war, Iran finances, directs and arms its affiliates - in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen - to target the State of Israel, but not only the State of Israel. but other countries in the region and not only in the region. An attack from Iranian territory would be clear proof of Iranian intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.

"In recent months we have improved and advanced our attack capabilities, and we will know how to act where needed. We have a multi-layered defense capability that has proven itself throughout the war, with thousands of successful interceptions, but still at the same time, the defense is never hermetic. You must continue to obey the directives of the Home Front Command. I clarify again: as of today, there is no change in the guidelines, but vigilance must be maintained.

"If there is a change, we will update immediately, here including on the platforms of the Home Front Command and the IDF spokesperson - as we have done throughout the war, transparently and immediately. In Gaza, tonight we launched a targeted operation in the center of the Gaza Strip, in the area of the Netzer corridor, to destroy terrorist and terrorist infrastructure and increase our grip on the corridor Wicker which crosses the strip. The purpose of the operation is to thwart Hamas' attempts to rehabilitate itself in the area. We continue to fight in Gaza, and are preparing for further actions."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel is "prepared for scenarios in other regions" apart from the Gaza Strip, which is experiencing a war that entered its seventh month this week, warning that his country "will strike whoever strikes it." Netanyahu added: We are in the midst of the war in Gaza, but we are also preparing for scenarios in other regions, adding: We are ready to meet Israels security requirements in defense and attack.

Netanyahu's speech came on the sidelines of his visit to an air base housing F-15 fighter jets, of which the Israeli fleet is the air force's main weapon for long-range strikes, according to the Times of Israel newspaper. Netanyahu said: We have established a simple principle: whoever hits us, we will hit him, in a clear reference to Iranian threats to carry out strikes against Israel.

These statements come after Iran pledged to respond to a strike attributed to Israel, which targeted an Iranian diplomatic compound in the Syrian capital, Damascus. Iranian Leader Ali Khamenei confirmed, on Wednesday, that Israel will receive punishment after the attack attributed to it on April 1 in Syria. The attack destroyed the Iranian consulate in Damascus and led to the death of 16 people, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard mourned 7 of its members in the attack, including two senior officers.

Axios and Reuters revealed that US Presidential Advisor for Regional Affairs Brett McGurk asked the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq and the UAE to mediate with Tehran and ask it not to escalate with the occupation and not to respond to its crime against the Iranian consular affairs building in Damascus.

The commander of the US Central Command, "Centcom", General Eric Kurella, is expected to go to Israel, on Thursday, to coordinate a possible attack by Iran and its agents in the Middle East, according to what the American " Axios " website quoted two unnamed Israeli officials. Corella is scheduled to meet with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant and senior officials in the ministry, according to the website.

"Axios" quoted Israeli officials as saying, "They are preparing for an unprecedented direct attack from Iranian territory, using ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles." In such a scenario, Israel would respond with a direct attack on Iran, the officials said.

This week, Gallant spoke with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about Iranian threats. Axios quoted an unidentified official as saying that the Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer, made a phone call on Tuesday regarding this issue with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Meanwhile, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that Blinken spoke with Gallant on Wednesday, and affirmed the United States support for Israels security, and made it clear that the United States will stand by Israel against any threats from Iran and its agents.

Axios also quoted a "senior Israeli official" as saying, "Israel asked the United States to help limit the Iranian response, by sending private and public warning messages to the Iranians, and highlighting its power in the region." Bloomberg, citing people familiar with intelligence information, said that the United States and its allies believe that an Iranian response to the Israeli attack on the Tehran consulate in Damascus is imminent and will be carried out through massive missile attacks or drones.

The Israeli official told Axios, "Israel and the United States have also coordinated in recent days regarding joint air and missile defense in the region, before a possible Iranian attack." Last week, Israel announced that it was strengthening its defense measures and temporarily suspending the permissions of combat units, after Iranian threats. In a press statement issued by his office this week, the Israeli Defense Minister said that preparations have been completed to deal with any scenario that might develop with Iran. The United States maintains a state of high alert for its forces in the region, and is preparing for a possible attack by Iran targeting Israeli or American interests in the region. Washington confirmed that it had nothing to do with the Iranian consulate strike.

US President Joe Biden sent an important message to Tehran that an Iranian attack would open a front not only with Israel, but also with America - and this evening (Thursday) we published in the "Main Edition" that this statement came after conversations between Defense Minister Yoav Galant and senior officials The American administration demanded that they make a public statement against Iran.

The public statement did come when US President Joe Biden said last night that his country has an "iron commitment" to protecting Israel from Iran's threats. At a press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Biden said that "the Iranians are threatening to launch a significant attack against Israel. As I told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies - is made of iron plating. Let me say that again - ironclad. (We will do) everything we can to protect Israel's security."

Afterwards, the Al-Jazeera network quoted an American source who said that "the US does not rule out joint retaliatory action with Israel if it is attacked by Iran or its proxies." The source added that the US would in any case "help defend Israel if it will be attacked, and may intercept missiles or UAVs that will be launched towards it. Biden's statements did not come in a vacuum."

At the same time, the Reuters news agency reported from Iranian sources that Tehran had signaled to Washington that it would respond to the assassination of a senior member of the Revolutionary Guards in a manner aimed at preventing a major escalation and would not act hastily, Iranian sources told Reuters. Iran's message to Washington was conveyed through Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdullahian during a visit on Sunday to Oman, which has often served as a mediator between Tehran and Washington.

In Iran they claim that they have already achieved one achievement without firing a single bullet, and this is their ability to put an entire country under stress and anxiety. In recent days, the Iranian media have been echoing Israel's great concern over Tehran's reaction, and Internet accounts identified with the Revolutionary Guards are publishing fictitious news about an imminent attack. Even today, Arab and Iranian commentators say that despite the great tension between Israel and the US, the close military cooperation between the two is maintained.

Israel is preparing to respond if Iran decides to attack Israel and the US is cooperating with it in this regard. Behind the scenes there was a series of telephone conversations between Defense Minister Gallant and his counterparts in the US. Gallant spoke with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and demanded that the US administration send a public and clear message against Iran.

A secret discussion took place at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the professional elements are preparing for a comprehensive diplomatic attack against Iran in the US, Europe and other countries, with the aim of isolating it, weakening it and labeling it even more as someone who destabilizes the situation in the Middle East. Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that "Iran is the head of the octopus, and now is our opportunity to weaken it in the face of global public opinion." In other words, in Israel we are preparing for defense, for attack - which includes not only military operations, but also diplomatic and political ones.

Bloomberg , citing people familiar with intelligence information, said on Wednesday that the United States and its allies believe that an Iranian response to the Israeli attack on Tehrans consulate in Damascus is imminent. The sources, who requested anonymity while discussing confidential issues, added that the attacks likely to be carried out by Tehran or its agents in the region will target military and government sites in Israel.

The sources confirmed that the possible attack may occur in the coming days using high-precision missiles or drones. The agency quoted a source as saying that the attack was seen as only a matter of time, according to American and Israeli intelligence assessments. The sources also said that Israel's Western allies have been informed that Israeli government and military facilities may be targeted, but civilian facilities are not expected to be targeted. The sources indicated that American officials are helping Israel plan and exchange intelligence assessments.

The sources said that American and Western intelligence agencies believe that the attack launched by Iran or its agents in the region may not necessarily emanate from northern Israel, where Hezbollah, Tehran's ally in Lebanon, is present. The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ali Khamenei, vowed again, on Wednesday, that Israel would receive punishment after an air strike attributed to it that resulted in the destruction of the Iranian consulate building in Damascus and the killing of seven members of the Revolutionary Guard, including two senior officers.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz was quick to respond on the X platform, writing in Persian, If Iran launches an attack from its territory, Israel will respond and attack Iran. Last week, Israel announced the strengthening of its defense measures and the temporary suspension of combat unit permissions after Iranian threats. The raid on the Iranian consulate came in the midst of escalating regional tensions, a war raging in the Gaza Strip against Hamas, and almost daily exchanges of fire with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Iran once again vowed to respond to an air strike attributed to Israel, which resulted in the destruction of the Iranian consulate building in Damascus and the killing of seven members of the Revolutionary Guard, including two senior officers. On Wednesday, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ali Khamenei, once again threatened Israel that it would be punished. Khamenei pointed out that "consulates and embassies in any country are the territory of that country, and an attack on our consulate means an attack on our territory."

Speaking to Al-Hurra website, the Iranian strategic expert, Saeed Shawwardi, lists scenarios for Irans expected response to Israel. Khamenei's statements are not just "threats or psychological warfare" as the Israeli side believes, and Israel would be "wrong" if it thought that Iran "does not have the tools to respond and punish," according to Shawwardi. Iran is strong and has inflicted strategic damage on the Israelis at the present time, and is capable of inflicting existential damage on Israel in the future, as he put it. The Tehran-based strategic expert reveals "a long-term plan that includes Iran's tools to implement its threats," including "an indirect response on several fronts inside and outside Israel, and a direct response inside Israel."

But on the other hand, the Israeli military and strategic expert, Kofi Lavie, confirms that Israel is ready to deal with all Iranian scenarios, whether direct or indirect. Israel did not claim responsibility for targeting the Iranian embassy in Damascus, and it has not been proven that it did so, but that does not prevent a state of satisfaction inside Israel as a result of this action, according to his interview with the Al-Hurra website. He points out that "Israel has the ability to maintain its security and safety from any threats, whether from Iran itself or its agents in the Middle East."

The Iranian-backed groups form the so-called Axis of Resistance, which is an alliance of armed militias that includes the Jihad and Hamas movements in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and several armed groups in Iraq and Syria. It serves as an Iranian front line of defense, and is used by Iran. To spread its influence throughout the region. Through these militias, Iran has succeeded in competing with traditional regional powers in the region, as it supports, directly or indirectly, more than 20 armed groups, most of which are classified as  terrorist  in the United States.

Since Hamas' bloody attack on Israel, the Lebanese Hezbollah group has exchanged fire on a daily basis with Israel, while Iraqi factions have targeted American forces in Syria and Iraq, and the Houthis are launching strikes from Yemen on ships in the Red Sea. Therefore, Shawwardi asserts that Iran has many allies in the Middle East, and therefore it does not need to enter into a direct, devastating war with Israel and those who are allied with it. These groups can target Israel from several fronts at the same time, without Iran needing to enter into a direct confrontation with the Israelis, according to the Iranian strategic expert.

At the top of the groups supported by Iran is Hamas, which is classified as a terrorist movement in the United States and other countries. The movement possesses a large number of Russian-made portable anti-tank missiles, which the movement used against Israeli forces in Gaza. Hamas also has drones that it has used to attack Israeli tanks and communication points.

Hezbollah, which was founded by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in 1982 and is classified by the United States as a terrorist organization, serves as a model for other Tehran-backed militias across the region, and also provides advice or training to some of these armed groups. Hezbollah's arsenal amounts to about 135,000 to 150,000 missiles and missiles or more, with a range of more than 300 kilometers or so, allowing it to reach targets deep inside Israel. Hezbollah possesses between 100 and 400 missiles that were recently modernized and equipped with precise guidance systems, according to  military expert estimates . In previous statements, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said that the group has 100,000 fighters, while the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) says in the World Factbook that the number of militia fighters was estimated in 2022 at about 45,000. Fighters, including about 20,000 full-time workers and 25,000 reserve soldiers.

Regarding the Houthi group in Yemen, which Washington classifies as a terrorist group, it has about 20,000 trained fighters, but in interviews, Houthi leaders claimed that they have up to 200,000 fighters, and in 2015 the United Nations estimated the number at about 75,000. Recent attacks have shown that the Houthis have some units highly trained in operating drones, in addition to anti-ship ballistic missiles and missiles designated for fixed targets on the ground.

Shawwardi reveals that Iran is working on "implementing a time plan aimed at strengthening the strength of the axis of resistance, and providing Tehran's allies with advanced weapons capable of neutralizing Israeli military power." The Iranian strategic expert points out that "Iran's allies currently have great military power," but within a "short" period of time they will gain more power that will enable them to "wage fierce and destructive wars" against Israel, without "Iran's interference and exposure to losses."

On the other hand, Lafi stresses that "Israel is ready to confront any Iranian threat." If Iran thinks about threatening Israel through its agents, the Israeli response will threaten Iranian national security, and no matter how Iranian military power is, it does not match the advanced qualitative Israeli capabilities, according to the Israeli strategic and military expert. Israel "is not a weak state. It possesses qualitative weapons that rely on modern technology that no army in the world has, and has not yet been used. Any attack on Israeli territory would be a golden opportunity to test these weapons," Lafi said.

On Sunday, Khamenei's advisor, Yahya Rahim Safavi, warned that Israeli embassies "are no longer safe," prompting Israel to strengthen its defense measures and temporarily suspend the licenses of combat units after Iranian threats. Shawwardi points out that all indirect Iranian responses to Israel are available, especially after the destruction of the five-story consulate building in Syria, which is a flagrant violation of international agreements stipulating the inviolability of diplomatic buildings.

But Lavi asserts that any threat to Israeli embassies is an illegal terrorist act, and if this happens through agents, Israel will punish them. Israel ranks 14th among the most powerful armies on earth, while Iran ranks 17th in the world, according to the Global Firepower website . However, Israel is militarily advanced on several levels more than Iran, which has been exhausted by Western sanctions.

Following Khameneis statements, Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz said on Wednesday that Israel would respond to Iran within its territory if Tehran launched an attack from there. Katz wrote in Hebrew and Persian on the X platform: If Iran launches an attack from its territory, Israel will respond and launch an attack inside Iranian territory. Shawwardi points out that "a direct Iranian military response to Israel is one of the options that is likely to occur during the coming period."

The Iranian response may occur at any moment, and may continue for days, weeks, or perhaps more, through advanced drones, missile force, and other methods such as cyber warfare and electronic confrontations, according to the Iranian strategic expert. If Israel thinks about targeting inside Iran, it will face a strong, direct, and multi-front temporary response, and if Israeli planes bomb any target on Iranian territory, you will not find airports to land on in Israel, according to Shawwardi.

But Lafi asserts that "the Israeli air defenses and interception systems that Israel possesses are among the most modern and powerful in the world and are a barrier against any attempts to target Israelis." Israel has several options to respond to any direct or multi-front Iranian attacks, and if anyone wants to provoke the Israeli army or exploit the state of war, the people will defend their country against any military action, according to Lavie.

Lavie stresses that Israel is capable of destroying any force that threatens the security and safety of the Israeli people, sending a message to Iran, saying: Go ahead and you will see a response the likes of which you have never seen in your lives.

Operational Update - Gaza

Israel's Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant, emphasized Israel's commitment to distinguishing between civilians and the Hamas terrorist organization in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. "Let me make it very clear  we are not fighting civilians, we are fighting the Hamas terrorist organization," Gallant stated, highlighting Hamas's use of the civilian population as cover for its operations. Gallant unveiled five major breakthroughs in the humanitarian campaign aimed at addressing the needs of the people in Gaza:

Approval of the Ashdod Port: This initiative aims to increase the entry of goods into Gaza while streamlining security checks. Approval of the new Northern Crossing: The establishment of a new crossing will provide a direct route for aid to reach northern Gaza, relieving pressure on existing entry points. Boosting aid through Jordan: Collaboration with the Jordanian Armed Forces will facilitate the delivery of aid through two routes, totaling 150 trucks, laying the groundwork for future aid distribution hubs. Establishment of the Coordination and Deconfliction Cell: This initiative seeks to enhance cooperation with international organizations, implement lessons learned, and engage with new partners to facilitate aid delivery. Major Projects: Collaboration with the United States on Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) operations, infrastructure projects led by COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), and engagement with new aid organizations.

"These breakthroughs will significantly impact the flow of aid, aiming to flood Gaza with humanitarian assistance," Gallant asserted, highlighting the plan to increase aid delivery to 500 trucks per day. The Coordinator for Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) has revealed a significant impediment to the transfer of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, citing a backlog of approximately 600 trucks waiting on the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom Crossing. In a statement issued through its official channels, COGAT emphasized its efforts to facilitate aid deliveries, including extending crossing hours and increasing operational capacities.

As part of increasing coordination and cooperation on humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, yesterday (Wednesday) the commander of the Southern Command, Major General Yaron Finkelman, and the coordinator of government operations in the territories, Major Rasan Aliyan, met with representatives of the international community from the UN agencies, the Red Cross, IMC, USAID and the American Humanitarian Coordinator The meeting was held together with the officers of the unit in the Southern Command. As part of the meeting, the commander of the Southern Command, Colonel Yaron Finkelman, presented the operational situation and the coordinator of the government's operations in the territories, Colonel Rasan Alian presented the IDF's humanitarian activities alongside the steps recently taken to increase the pace of aid transfers to the Strip. The IDF spokesman, Brigadier General Daniel Hagari, reveals to the foreign media the plan to expand humanitarian aid for the residents of the Gaza Strip:

The IDF fighters in the command of the Northern Brigade in the Gaza Division have been operating in recent days in a targeted activity in the Shejaiya area in the northern Gaza Strip, eliminating terrorists and destroying many terrorist infrastructures. In one of the activities, the fighters raided an outpost used by Hamas terrorists for training. After the troops raided the outpost, an Air Force aircraft attacked the outpost and destroyed it.

The combat team of the 401st Brigade, Nahal, and other units under the command of the 162nd Division began a targeted operation to eliminate terrorists and destroy terrorist infrastructures in the center of the Gaza Strip. Before the forces entered the area, fighter jets and aircraft of the Air Force in cooperation with the 215th Brigade attacked dozens of terrorist infrastructures above and below. to the ground in the center of the strip.

The joint activity of the maneuvering forces and the Air Force was carried out following precise intelligence guidance indicating the presence of terrorist infrastructures and many terrorists in the area. During the operation, the soldiers of the Nahal Brigade identified an armed terrorist who came out of a tunnel shaft near the forces and entered a military building. A fighter jet attacked the terrorist while he was moving towards the forces. Also, the fighters of the 401st Brigade located several launchers in the area through observations.

As part of the activity, the forces of the Sea Arm carried out several attacks towards the coastal area in the center of the Gaza Strip as assistance to the fighters operating in the area.

The Israeli army announced the start of a military operation in the central Gaza Strip, a few days after the withdrawal of most forces from the south of the Strip. The army revealed in a statement on Thursday that its forces had begun an operation to eliminate terrorists and destroy terrorist infrastructure in the central Gaza Strip. It pointed out that "before the forces entered the area, Air Force fighters and aircraft, in cooperation with the 215th Brigade, attacked dozens of infrastructure above and below ground in the central Gaza Strip." It also explained that "the joint activity of the maneuver forces and the air force was carried out, after precise intelligence directives indicating the presence of a terrorist infrastructure and a large number of terrorists in the region."

The Israeli Minister of Finance, Bezalel Smotrich, had stated earlier Thursday that we must continue combating terrorism and deepen operations in Rafah, Deir al-Balah and Nuseirat, saying that part of this begins today (Thursday). Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that civilians will be evacuated from Rafah, before Israeli forces pursue the remaining Hamas members there.

Operational Update - Judea-Samaria

The IDF and Shin Bet eliminated the terrorist Nasser Ya'akov Jaber Nasser, who, as part of his activities in the military branch, was involved in the central financing of Hamas's military activities in Rafah and even transferred hundreds of thousands of dollars during the month of last December in favor of military activities. IDF Shin Bet and MGB fighters arrested six wanted men throughout Judea and Samaria. In Ezaria in the Etzion Brigade, the fighters arrested two wanted men and confiscated many weapons, including an M-16 rifle, a gun and other weapons. A wanted man was arrested in Kablan and Orif in Samaria and many weapons and incendiary materials were confiscated. Another wanted person was arrested in Kalandia in Benjamin and weapons and military equipment were confiscated. In Tulkarem and Bir a Basha in Menasha, a wanted person was arrested and suspects will be interrogated. Another wanted man was arrested in Hebron in Judea.

The wanted persons who were arrested and the means of warfare that were confiscated were transferred to the security forces for further treatment, there are no casualties to our forces. So far, since the beginning of the war, approximately 3,700 wanted persons have been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Emekim Division, approximately 1,600 of whom are associated with the terrorist organization Hamas.

Operational Update - Lebanon

Fighter jets attacked three Hizbollah military buildings in the areas of Mis al-Jabal, Yarin and al-Khyam, alongside another military observation of the organization in the area of Marviin in southern Lebanon. During the day, an artillery force fired to remove a threat in the Abu Shesh area. Air force fighter jets attacked a military building in the A-Dahira area in southern Lebanon, where a Hezbollah terrorist was staying. During the day, an armored force fired to remove a threat in the area of Tir Harfa.

Operational Update - Syria / Iraq

Operational Update - Yemen

Within the framework of the general mobilization of the Yemeni armed forces during the holy battle, a symbolic unit of the Al-Wahbi Brigades, which has a military strength of 12 thousand fighters, conducted a symbolic sea and land maneuver, simulating the attack on the American and British enemy ships in the Red Sea. Major General Bakil Saleh al-Wahbi, commander of the al-Wahbi Brigades, said: The words of the revolutionary and political leadership are as clear as day. The Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden are safe for all ships, except for the evil trio of America, Israel, and Britain, and everyone who helped, supported, or supported them. Our missiles and our drones will reach them until they stop their aggression against Gaza. ".

The Yemeni Naval Forces are also at the forefront of the ranks and at the highest levels. As part of their Farahi program, in a number of their military sites, extending along the coast of the Red Sea , they receive a number of tribesmen who came to congratulate them on the holiday and congratulate them on the victories.

Colonel Ali Sabr, a commander in the naval forces, said: The American talk is about peace. There is an American who says if you want peace, take up arms, and for the sake of this peace we have taken up our weapons. Firstly, the weapon of faith, which is our strength in these fields. Secondly, all the weapons we can prepare. He can stop the American and the Israeli, and stop anyone who thinks of defeating this nation.

The American and British raids and the widespread military escalation played a major role in mobilization operations, raising combat morale, and the determination to confront the Americans and the Israelis directly this time.

Maps

All maps are lies. Not only is it easy to lie with maps, it is essential, wrote cartographer Mark Monmoneir in his book How to Lie with Maps. He showed that condensing complex, three-dimensional spaces onto a two-dimensional sheet of paper [in old days] is bound to be reductive. But it is impossible to comprehend the war in Gaza without reference to maps, otherwise the entire conflict is reduced to an endless series of meaningless acts of random violence and the suffering of civilians. The first characteristic of guerrilla warfare is the loss of a front line. Evidently, different mappers have different ideas of how to depict the war in Gaza, notably those that seek to depict Israeli progress in the ground campaign. Part of the problem is latency. The news that forms the basis of the maps takes time to filter out to mappers, and the cartographers take time in crafting their maps, and it takes time to curate them. These processes are uneven among mappers, so their maps may differ in detail. Probably there is some ideological bias, or at least thematic apperception, which is understandable in wartime. It may come as no surprise that al-Jazeera maps depict rather less Israeli territorial progress than other sources. Finally, there remains the epistemological question of just exactly what are the colored in areas depicting. Naively, this might be understood as areas of Israeli control, that are no longer contested by the HAMAS. Or possibly these are areas of Israeli presence, in many of which the possibility of an RPG-wielding HAMAS militant popping out of a tunnel unexpectedly remains a live possibility. With the "zero-range" combat characterized by small unit tactics on both sides, maps may be prey to a fallacy of misplaced concreteness.

Bystanders

The UN highlighted discrepancies in aid delivery methods. The UN claimed that Israel sends half-full trucks into Gaza, necessitating repacking upon arrival in the Strip. This ongoing disagreement over aid logistics has contributed to the current impasse in relief efforts. Addressing the humanitarian situation in Gaza, U.S. envoy David Satterfield underscored the pressing issue of limited truck availability within the Strip. Satterfield identified this scarcity as the primary obstacle hindering the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza.

Axis of Resistance

Allied for Democracy

Elon Levy, until this week a senior member of the information headquarters and in fact Israel's face in the world, was interviewed 06 April 2024 by N12's "Olan Shishi", for the first time since he was suspended from his post - to which he has not returned. "After I heard here, at your place, the report about the intentions to oust me and no new message came after I was suspended, I decided that I would take the team of volunteers who have been working with me since the beginning of the war, and establish an independent advocacy initiative with the support of the Ministry of Diaspora and Donors," Levy said. This report did not knock me off my chair," Levy said. "They came to me here and there and said: 'You know there is dissatisfaction in the Prime Minister's office,' but it didn't come from an official place, so I didn't know how much importance and credibility to attach to it," he explained.

"The state of our information in a catastrophic world," Levy clarified. "Today we lost the United States, when the president puts pressure on the prime minister and blames him for not having a hostage deal. We have run out of credit. Even our biggest supporters, who say that in theory Israel has the right to fight Hamas, are looking at six months of war and tens of thousands of dead, and this It has already become more than a nuisance. We want the problem to disappear."

"I don't think the whole world was with us six months ago. If that were true, we would have seen a resolution in the UN Security Council. Relatively, perhaps for the first time in history, Britain said it wanted us to win the war. But six months have passed since then, a lot of destruction in Gaza, tens of thousands of dead and we are facing a well-oiled propaganda machine, that even if the State of Israel had set up the most amazing propaganda system in the world, it is still 'David against Goliath' in the world."

A few weeks after Elon Levy became a star of Israeli propaganda, it becomes clear to the Prime Minister's Office and his wife Sara Netanyahu how active Levy was in protests against the legal revolution. The photos of him participating in the demonstrations still appear on the Internet, he did not remove them from there even after he assumed the role of national explainer. A very heavy pressure mask begins on the members of the national information system to move Ilon Levy. In the first stage, the amount of his appearances was reduced, and that tweet in which he replied to the British Foreign Minister, is simply a glitch that was used to move him from his position.

"No one told me anything in the prime minister's office or in the information system, and the truth is that this report surprised me," Levy said in an interview. "When I heard this report about the Prime Minister's wife, it was after I had already been interviewed and talked about the demonstrations, and I said that there was an Israel before October 7 and there is an Israel after it."

Regarding the tweet that caused an uproar in front of Britain, and resulted in his suspension from the position to which he did not return, Levy said that "What I said was the truth. This was the view of Israeli policy, according to which there are no capacity limits at the crossings and that if they want to send more aid we will allow it to enter, I can accept Maybe the fact that there was a slight violation of the diplomatic protocol, because after all, a spokesperson is not supposed to reply on Twitter to the foreign minister." However, he emphasized that he had not seen the letter of complaint received against him from the British, and that he was not aware of the nature of the complaint against him.

Operation Iron Swords - By the Numbers

U.S. officials have voiced concerns that the majority of hostages held by Hamas might have have been killed, raising alarm bells over the ongoing negotiations for their release. According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, sourced from U.S. officials, there are growing fears that most of the Israeli hostages in Hamas captivity may already be dead. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the deaths of 34 hostages still held by Hamas, citing intelligence gathered by troops operating in Gaza. The report highlights that some hostages may have been killed during Israeli strikes on Gaza, while others succumbed to health issues, including injuries sustained during their initial capture by Hamas terrorists.

1,900,000 IDPs in Gaza

76,094 Gazans injured, 28% adult male

70,000 tons of explosives dropped on Gaza

70,000 housing units completely destroyed

70,000 Israeli IDPs from Lebanon border

45,000 bombs dropped in Gaza

43,000 Gazans killed, including buried under rubble

33,000 Gaza targets attacked

33,5450 Gazans martyred

20,528 Palestinians in Israeli prisons [Haaretz, 20 Mar 2024]

15,140 Israelis injured [i24 TV]

15,000 rockets launched from Gaza

14,520 Gazan children martyred

13,000 HAMAS combatants killed [N12]

13,000 HAMAS combatants killed [IDF]

11,000 arrested by Israelis in the West Bank in 2023

10,000 Gazans missing under the rubble

9,920 Gazan women martyred

9,000 Palestinians in Israeli prisons

9,000 IDF needing psychological assistance

8,365 arrested by Israelis in the West Bank since Oct.7th

6,800 IDF officers and soldiers injured [Channel 12]

6,000 HAMAS combatants killed [HAMAS]

5,500 IDF wounded [reports]

4,750 West Bank Palestinians wounded

4,700 sites targetted in Lebanon

3,484 administrative detainees

3,700 wanted persons arrested throughout Judea and Samaria

3,188 IDF wounded [IDF]

2,100 Gazan women are missing

1,609 terrorists killed on the first day

1,600 wanted persons arrested throughout Judea and Samaria affiliated with Hamas

1,160 Israelis killed on the first day

604 Israeli officers and soldiers killed since the start of the war

456 West Bank Palestinians martyred

343 people [including fighters] killed in Lebanon

260 Israeli officers and soldiers killed in Gaza

222 Hezbollah fighters killed in Lebanon

126 people recovered, including 91 Israelis, 11 bodies, and 24 foreign workers

116 living hostages in Palestinian custody

50 civilians killed in Lebanon

29 IDF deaths were caused by "friendly fire"

15 Israelis killed in the West Bank and Israel

Not every number is reported every day, so sudden jumps generally reflect reporting artifacts rather than actual upticks. Many of these numbers fluctate, up and down, with no apparent explanation. This list records the highest number reliably reported for each matter, under the theory that reality with catch up with reports, as is relentlessly the case.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 12 April 2024 - Day 779

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 General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of April 12, there were 81x tactical engagements.

Russian forces launched a total of 2x missile and 72x air strikes, 116x MLRS attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have killed and wounded civilians. Residential apartment blocks and private houses, as well as other infrastructure, got destroyed and damaged.

Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. No signs of formation of an offensive group.

Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the Russian areas bordering Ukraine. Russia conducts subversion, continues shelling of Ukrainian settlements from the territory of Russia and increases the concentration of mining operations along the state border of Ukraine. Russia launched air strikes in the vicinities of Sumy (Sumy oblast), Lyptsi, Vovchans'k (Kharkiv oblast). More than 20x settlements, including Pl'okhiv, Yanzhulivka, Semenivka (Chernihiv oblast), Vorozhba, Marchykhyna Buda, Yastrubyne (Sumy oblast), Kozacha Lopan', Strilecha, Zemlyanky (Kharkiv oblast) came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces conducted no offensives. However, Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Kup'yans'k-Vuzlovyi and Kurylivka (Kharkiv oblast). The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at around 15x settlements, including Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka, Stepova Novoselivka, Kyslivka (Kharkiv oblast).

Lyman axis: Russian forces did not conduct offensive operations. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Makiivka, Nevs'ke (Luhansk oblast), Terny, Yampolivka, Tors'ke, Zarichne (Donetsk oblast).

Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled 24x attacks in the vicinities of Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Spirne, Vyimka, Rozdolivka, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast), where the Russian adversary, using air strikes, attempted to improve its tactical position. Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of Druzhba (Donetsk oblast). More than 10x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Hryhorivka, Kalynivka, Chasiv Yar (Donetsk oblast).

Avdiivka axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 16x attacks in the vicinities of Novokalynove, Novobakhmutivka, Berdychi, Pervomais'ke, Netailove (Donetsk oblast), where Russian forces made attempts to dislodge Ukrainian troops from their positions. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Novokalynove, Novobakhmutivka, Semenivka, Netailove (Donetsk oblast).

Novopavlivka axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to block Russian forces near Heorhiivka, Novomykhailivka, Kostyantynivka, Vodyane (Donetsk oblast), where Russian forces made 19x attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Heorhiivka, Paraskoviivka, Kostyantynivka, Vuhledar (Donetsk oblast).

Orikhiv axis: Russian forces, with air support, launched 3x attacks on positions of Ukrainian defenders in the vicinity of Staromaiors'ke (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Vremivka (Donetsk oblast) and Robotyne (Zaporizhzhia oblast). Around 20x settlements, including Poltavka, Chervone, Bilohir'ya, Novodanylivka, Shcherbaky (Zaporizhzhia oblast), were under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Kherson axis: Russia does not abandon its intention to dislodge Ukrainian troops from their bridgeheads on the left bank of the Dnipro River. In particular during the day of April 12, Russian forces launched 5x unsuccessful attacks on positions of the Ukrainian troops in the vicinity of Krynky (Kherson oblast). The Russian occupiers fired artillery and mortars at more than 15 settlements, including Tyahynka, Ivanivka, Novotyahynka, Ponyativka (Kherson oblast).

During the day of April 12, the Ukrainian Air Force launched air strikes on 12x concentration of Russian troops, weapons and military equipment, 4x anti-aircraft missile systems. On top of that, Ukrainian air defense forces destroyed 1x Kh-59 guided air-launched missile.

The Ukrainian Missile Forces hit 2x air defense systems, 1x electronic warfare station of the Russian invaders.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that from 6 to 12 April 2023, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in response to the Kiev regime's attempts to cause damage to the Russian oil, gas, and energy facilities have carried out one massive and 47 group strikes by high-precision air-based, sea-based, and ground-based weapons, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles, against the facilities of the fuel, energy, and military-industrial enterprises of Ukraine.

In addition, logistics support bases and temporary deployment areas of AFU Special Operations Forces and foreign mercenaries have been hit.

All the assigned targets have been engaged.

In Kupyansk direction, units of the Zapad Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line during the week, as well as hit manpower and hardware of five AFU mechanised brigades, two Territorial Defence brigades, and two National Guard Brigades near Serebryanka (Donetsk People's Republic), Berestovoye, and Sinkovka (Kharkov region).

In addition, four counterattacks launched by assault groups of 95th air assault and 31st national guard brigades were repelled close to Grigorovka and Terny (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy losses were more than 380 servicemen, three tanks, nine armoured fighting vehicles, and 17 motor vehicles.

In the course of the counter-battery warfare, two combat vehicles of Uragan and Grad MLRS, 28 field artillery guns, four Nota and Bukovel-AD electronic warfare stations, as well as three U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare stations have been hit.

In Donetsk direction, the Yug Group of Forces' units captured more advantageous lines and hit four assault, two airmobile, one tank, and nine mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Andreyevka, Antonovka, Belogorovka, Kleshcheyevka, Kurdyumovka, Selidovo, and Chasov Yar (Donetsk People's Republic).

In addition, 23 counter-attacks launched by assault groups of AFU 46th airmobile, 31st, and 67th mechanised brigades were repelled near Berestovoye, Bogdanovka, Razdolovka, Novomikhailovka, and Krasnoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to more than 3,000 Ukrainian troops, three tanks, 11 armoured fighting vehicles, 51 motor vehicles, 47 field artillery guns, including 17 Western-made guns, 8 electronic warfare stations, as well as three U.S.-made AN/TPQ-36 and AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare stations.

In Avdeyevka direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces continued to advance into the depth of the enemy's defence.

Air strikes, artillery fire, and heavy flamethrower systems hit manpower and hardware of eight brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and repelled 65 enemy counter-attacks close to Novgorodskoye, Novokalinovo, Umanskoye, Pervomayskoye, and Berdychi (Donetsk People's Republic).

More than 2,130 Ukrainian troops, six tanks, 24 armoured fighting vehicles, 51 motor vehicles, and 22 field artillery guns, including three U.S.-made M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery systems and four U.S.-made M777 howitzers have been neutralised during the week.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces improved the tactical situation along the front line and defeated units of seven AFU brigades and National Guard Brigade near Makarovka, Urozhaynoye, and Ugledar (Donetsk People's Republic).

Three counter-attacks of AFU 58th motorised infantry and 72nd mechanised brigades' assault groups were repelled near Nikolskoye and Novodonetskoye.

The AFU losses were more than 840 Ukrainian troops, two tanks, two armoured fighting vehicles, 25 motor vehicles, and 11 field artillery guns, including five U.S.-made M777 howitzers.

In Kherson direction, units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of one mountain assault, three mechanised brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, one marine brigade, and two territorial defence brigades close to Rabotino, Mirnoye, Stepovoye, Pavlovka (Zaporozhye region), Mikhailovka, and Novotyaginka (Kherson region).

The AFU losses amounted to more than 335 Ukrainian troops, three tanks, 29 motor vehicles, and 22 field artillery guns, including six U.S.-made M777 howitzers.

Missile Troops, Artillery, and unmanned aerial vehicles of the Russian Groups of Forces have wiped out five French-Italian-made SAMP/T anti-aircraft launchers, one S-300 and one S-125 SAM systems, as well as two P-18 radar stations for detecting and tracking air targets during the week.

Aviation and air defence units shot down one Neptune anti-ship missile, 12 French-made Hammer aerial guided bombs, one U.S.-made JDAM aerial guided bomb, 25 HIMARS and Uragan MLRS projectiles, as well as 1,712 unmanned aerial vehicles.

A total of 21 servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine surrendered during the week.

?? In total, 583 airplanes and 270 helicopters, 20,604 unmanned aerial vehicles, 500 air defence missile systems, 15,761 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,266 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 8,836 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 20,910 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.





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Joint Statement by Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Attal

Prime Minister of Canada - Justin Trudeau

April 11, 2024

Ottawa, Ontario

We, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister of the French Republic Gabriel Attal, met yesterday and today to deepen the already strong bilateral relations between our two countries, rooted in a shared history, a common language, and universal values, such as democracy and respect for human rights. Canada and France enjoy strong ties through bilateral co-operation in a wide range of areas, from international security to environmental protection, promotion of peace, education, sustainable development, and economic co-operation, both bilaterally and multilaterally within the G7, the G20, NATO, the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, and UN organizations. Our bilateral commitments are also enhanced by strong human exchanges and the significant number of our nationals in each of the two countries.

Our discussions during the past several hours provided an opportunity to advance shared priorities, such as environmental protection, the fight against climate change, the transition to a net-zero economy, energy security, the advancement of rules-based inclusive trade, and an unwavering commitment to promoting the French language and Francophone cultures. We also reaffirmed our commitment to the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA), which has created significant opportunities for businesses and workers in both Canada and France.

Cultural and linguistic ties

The linguistic and cultural ties shared by Canada and France make us natural partners to promote the French language as a pillar of economic, social, and cultural development, and solidarity among the peoples of the Francophone world. Canada and France benefit from long-standing, strong collaboration in the cultural sector, including in the cultural and creative industries, digital platform regulation, audio-visual co-production, and promotion of the French language. In this regard, we continue to support TV5MONDE and the French-language digital platform TV5MONDEplus to enrich and introduce French-language content around the world. With the passage of the modernized Official Languages Act in 2023, Canada now has strengthened legislation to support its commitment to promoting and protecting French across Canada.

Co-operation between our business communities

We congratulate the Mouvement des entreprises de France and the Business Council of Canada on signing an agreement establishing a France-Canada Business Council, a structure for critical thinking and regular exchanges between the two organizations, in an effort to strengthen exchanges between French and Canadian businesses to promote the development of trade and economic relations between Canada and France.

We are pleased to announce the renewal of the agreement between the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and the French investment bank (Bpifrance) to support the international expansion and success of Canadian and French small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

BDC and Bpifrance, whose mandates have many points in common, have formalized their collaboration and commitment in supporting the success of SMEs. In addition to sharing best practices in entrepreneurship support, BDC and Bpifrance will join forces to develop concrete projects to benefit SMEs, specifically for the purpose of improving access to markets and investors in both countries.

Our co-operation on the environment

France and Canada recognize the importance of working together to face the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. In addition, we are proud to announce the renewal of the Canada-France Climate and Environment Partnership, reiterating our shared commitment to supporting the fight against climate change by promoting and implementing the Paris Agreement.

In particular, France and Canada will work together to mobilize innovative ways to eradicate poverty and preserve the planet and to better protect vulnerable countries facing the crises stemming from climate change and conflict. Canada and France welcome the Paris Pact for People and the Planet (4P), adopted in June 2023.

We support reaching a legally binding international agreement to tackle plastic pollution and will continue to work together within the Host Country Alliance of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) process and the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution. We also emphasize the importance of halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030. As members of the Nature Champions Network and the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, we will continue our joint efforts to accelerate the momentum and the implementation of the KunmingaMontrAal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).

France and Canada will continue to help developing countries contribute to the 23 targets of the Kunming-MontrAal Global Biodiversity Framework by providing them with an adequate, predictable, and timely flow of funds. The countries emphasize the need to fight against deforestation around the world by preserving, protecting, and restoring critical ecosystems, especially forests and other wooded land, as well as wetlands, such as peatlands, mangroves, and oceans, which are the main natural carbon sinks and biodiversity reservoirs. Canada and France will continue to work together to advance the objectives of the Forest and Climate Leaders' Partnership, which is committed to implementing ambitious actions aligned with the Glasgow Declaration on Forests.

France and Canada also recognize that carbon pricing is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Canada is pleased to welcome France as a Partner in the Global Carbon Pricing Challenge, which calls for a partnership of carbon pricing champions from around the world to expand the use of carbon pricing by strengthening existing systems and supporting emerging ones. The goal of the Challenge is for 60% of global emissions to be covered by carbon pollution pricing by 2030.

Our co-operation in fighting forest fires

Recently, natural disasters and extreme weather have devastated communities in Canada and in Europe. The forest fires and wildfires in France and Canada in 2022 and 2023 were unprecedented in size and duration. Canada is grateful for the major operational support provided by France in 2023. Given the growing threat of forest fires on populations, infrastructure, and ecosystems, our two countries are taking the necessary measures to formalize our co-operation in wildfire management. By signing a Declaration of Intent, France and Canada will strengthen their collaboration in this regard, notably through personnel exchanges during emergencies, in areas such as innovation, data- and information-sharing, and firefighter training. In co-operation with the Province of British Columbia, we confirm our interest in deploying a French wildfire services expert to enhance our mutual learning.

Lastly, France, joining its European partners under the framework established by the European Union, will purchase two De Havilland firefighting aircraft and is also considering further acquisitions to renew its fleet.

Our co-operation in transitioning to clean energy

Canada and France emphasize their support for the Powering Past Coal Alliance and the Coal Transition Accelerator, launched jointly during COP28, and will continue to co-operate within the Alliance and the Accelerator to foster the transition to clean energy. Canada and France acknowledge the importance of promoting sustainable development and the transition to a climate-neutral economy. We welcome investments that support this objective and will work together for transparency and against zero-sum competition in our path toward climate neutrality.

To work together fully on this transition, Canada and France are today announcing new bilateral co-operation on transportation, in particular decarbonizing aviation and airport activities, railway transportation, decarbonizing the maritime sector, and supply chains. A partnership will be signed to formalize this bilateral initiative.

Our co-operation in Research, Development, and Innovation

To meet the world's scientific and technological challenges, Canada and France are determined to further their co-operation in innovation and scientific research, particularly in the areas of research, technology and innovation, specifically emerging technologies such as quantum science and artificial intelligence, the poles and oceans, health, and the energy transition.

We underscore the signing of a memorandum of understanding to create the Franco-Canadian International Research Network (IRN) on hydrogen, coordinated by the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and involving 10 universities from both our countries. This initiative aims to deepen collaborative efforts between Canadian and French researchers to improve low-carbon-emission hydrogen production technologies.

Geopolitical crises

In our discussion, we also addressed the major geopolitical crises we are facing. Canada and France have worked closely together to mobilize the international community in support of the efforts of Haitians to restore security, rule of law, and democracy. We are deeply concerned about the seriousness of the security crisis and its devastating consequences for the Haitian people. We encourage the Transitional Presidential Council, once in place, to form a government and institutions to restore security and to move as quickly as possible to organize fair, credible, and transparent elections for Haitians. France and Canada call for the rapid deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti to assist the Haitian police in fighting organized crime.

Canada and France unequivocally condemn Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and remain firmly committed to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including its territorial waters. We believe that it is up to Ukraine to decide how to defend itself and protect its people. Canada and France will continue its support bilaterally and through all the international organizations of which they are members. They will continue to support a just and lasting peace for Ukraine under the peace plan and its working groups, as well as any other forums where they can exercise their influence. Canada and France will continue their efforts in the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. We will continue our financial, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support to Ukraine for as long as it takes. We reaffirm our long-term support for Ukraine under the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine and the respective bilateral agreements that were recently adopted in 2024. Canada and France are determined to help with the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine by responding to immediate humanitarian needs, supporting reform and anti-corruption efforts, and strengthening trade investment in Ukraine with a view to fostering private-sector participation.

Canada and France are extremely concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the appalling situation of the civilian population. We condemn the strike that resulted in the deaths of several World Central Kitchen workers, including a Canadian citizen. Canada and France emphasize Israel's obligation, under international humanitarian law, to allow and facilitate the unfettered access of humanitarian aid to Gaza and to protect humanitarian workers and the civilian population. We have been clear: an urgent ceasefire is needed. In the strongest possible terms, we condemn the terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas against Israel on October 7 and call for the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages. Canada and France remain strongly committed to the two-state solution, which includes the creation of a Palestinian state, living in peace and security alongside Israel.

Eighty years ago, the Allied armed forces, namely the Canadian Armed Forces and the Free French Forces, took part in the Normandy Landing. We stood firm in the face of tyranny. Although the price to pay was high, our determination to defend the cause of freedom never wavered. Normandy will go down in history as a major turning point in the fight against the Nazis. Its name will be forever associated with bravery and freedom.

Today, we have come together at Beechwood Cemetery for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landing to honour the fallen members of the Canadian Forces who fought for France, Europe, and our democracies. We have also inaugurated the Amicitia Monument, with an eye on the future, celebrating Canada-France friendship.

The first Franco-Canadian Council of Ministers to be held this year in Canada

Faced with the ever-increasing global challenges, France and Canada will continue their close co-operation. We are pleased to announce the first Franco-Canadian Council of Ministers to be held in Canada's Acadie this year with the President of the French Republic and the Prime Minister of Canada. This Council of Ministers will meet for the first time to take stock of our strengthened co-operation and develop joint actions.

The next Sommet de la Francophonie

We will have the opportunity to further our steadfast and shared commitment to the French language and Francophone cultures at the next Sommet de la Francophonie. The event will bring together Heads of State and government from la Francophonie on October 4 and 5, 2024, in Paris and Villers-CotterAts, at the CitA internationale de la langue franAaise, on the theme "Create, innovate, and do business in French." We look forward to working together and with all the other partners in advancing our shared priorities, such as the teaching of French and instruction in French, and strengthening democracy and human rights, gender equality, digital and economic co-operation, climate action, and the active participation of civil society and youth.

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Canada and France reinforce bilateral ties

Prime Minister of Canada - Justin Trudeau

April 11, 2024

Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, welcomed the Prime Minister of France, Gabriel Attal, on his first official visit to Canada from April 10 to 11.

United by a common history and a strong relationship, Canada and France share a vision for the future. Our priorities include defending democracy and human rights, promoting the French language and francophone cultures, advancing climate action, and progressing toward net-zero.

During the visit, Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Attal deepened the partnership between our two countries. They discussed ongoing progress in the efforts to halt biodiversity loss, the fight against climate change and the transition to a net-zero economy as well as the importance of safeguarding our energy security and advancing the development of critical mineral resources.

Leaders took part in a signing ceremony where both countries agreed to strengthen their relationship on wildfire cooperation, and to renew the France-Canada Partnership on Climate and Environment. The three-year renewal of the Partnership will further strengthen bilateral co-operation to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution around the world.

Recent natural disasters and extreme weather events have devastated communities in Canada and Europe. Considering the growing threat of wildfires to populations, infrastructure, and ecosystems, Canada and France have signed a Declaration of Intent on cooperation on wildfire management to enhance their collaboration in this regard. Lastly, France, joining its European partners under the framework established by the European Union, will purchase two De Havilland firefighting aircraft and is also considering further acquisitions to renew its fleet.

Canada welcomes France as the most recent Partner to join the Global Carbon Pricing Challenge. Carbon pricing is one of the most effective ways to reduce emissions - and by working together, we can encourage and support more countries to adopt this proven approach to keeping our air clean and fighting climate change.

The prime ministers highlighted the renewal of the partnership agreement between the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and the French investment bank Bpifrance to keep supporting small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in both countries. This renewed partnership will create more opportunities for Canadian and French entrepreneurs, and attract investment across Canada, France, and the European Union.

During a bilateral meeting, the Prime Ministers also reaffirmed the value of the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The agreement creates good, middle-class jobs, and creates opportunities for businesses and workers in both countries.

The two leaders reiterated their steadfast support for Ukraine against Russia's brutal war of aggression. The leaders also underscored their condemnation of Hamas' terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, and called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages. The leaders also stressed the importance of ensuring safe and unimpeded access to life-saving humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza, and reiterated their support for lasting peace in the Middle East in the form of a two-state solution. They also expressed their concerns over the ongoing humanitarian, security, and political crises in Haiti.

Finally, the two Prime Ministers concluded the visit with a Joint Statement, sharing the work underway for both countries to deepen collaboration on clean energy and a dynamic economy. Prime Minister Trudeau also took the opportunity to announce that Canada's Acadie will host the first Franco-Canadian Council of Ministers meeting this year, to continue to strengthen our bilateral cooperation in strategic areas.

Quote

"Canada and France share a common vision, including in the fight against climate change and in the promotion of the French language and the Francophonie. As Prime Minister Attal's visit made clear - Canada and France will work together to create good jobs, take climate action, and build a better future for all those who call our countries home." The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

France is a key ally for Canada on the international stage. France is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), G7, and G20, as well as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a founding member of the European Union, and a leading partner in La Francophonie.

The original Canada-France Climate and Environment Partnership was announced in 2018 to join efforts in support of global momentum for climate and environment action. The Partnership was renewed in 2021, with Canada and France redoubling their efforts.

The Declaration of Intent in the areas of mutual aid and cooperation for the management of wildland fires formalizes bilateral co-operation on personnel exchange during emergencies, and strengthens strategic co-operation for the management of wildland fires in areas such as research and innovation, data and information sharing, and firefighter training, to advance shared priorities.

Among all public investment banks who support entrepreneurs around the world, BDC and Bpifrance have a lot in common in terms of the support they offer to SMEs. This makes collaboration between the two institutions very informative and allows for the exchange of best practices to benefit entrepreneurs in both countries.

While in Ottawa, Prime Ministers Trudeau and Attal attended a ceremony at the Beechwood Cemetery to inaugurate the Amicitia France-Canada Monument, which underscores our unique friendship and commemorates the shared history and values between Canada and France. The Amicitia France-Canada Monument is built on a commemorative site at the Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, Ontario. The Monument recognizes more than four centuries of shared history and values and more than 90 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and France.

In 2023, France was Canada's third largest merchandise export market in the European Union, and its twelfth-largest trading partner globally, with two-way merchandise trade totalling $12.9 billion.

In 2023, Canadian exports to France amounted to $4.3 billion, while imports from France totalled $8.6 billion.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on April 11, 2024

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

2024-04-11 20:56

Xinhua News Agency: It's reported that recently Palestine formally requested the UN Security Council to reconsider its application for full UN membership submitted in 2011. The Council met on April 8 and referred the application to the Committee of Admission of New Members for its deliberation. The US said that prior to a wider agreement between Palestine and Israel, it will continue opposing Palestine's full UN membership. What's China's position?

Mao Ning: The ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the severe humanitarian crisis it has caused are yet another reminder that the only way to end the vicious cycle of Palestinian-Israeli conflicts is to fully implement the two-State solution, establish an independent state of Palestine and redress the historical injustice long suffered by the Palestinians. China supports full UN membership for Palestine and supports speedy Council action to that end.

NBC: Japan's Prime Minister Kishida is on a state visit to the US where the main focus is the expansion of security ties to counter China, including missile systems and the possibility of Japan joining AUKUS. President Biden has also invited the Philippines' President Marcos to join their talks. What is China's view of this strategic alliance in the Indo-Pacific? And what is China considering as potential repercussions?

Mao Ning: Despite China's serious concerns, the US and Japan attacked and smeared China on the Taiwan question and maritime issues, grossly interfered in China's domestic affairs and violated the basic norms in international relations. China deplores and opposes it, and has made serious dAmarches to relevant parties.

US-Japan relations should not target other countries, harm their interests or undermine regional peace and stability. China firmly opposes the Cold War mentality and small group politics. China firmly rejects anything that creates and drives up tensions and may undermine other countries' strategic security and interests.

I want to stress that there is but one China. This is a historical fact and international consensus. The Taiwan question is purely China's domestic affair and brooks no external interference. Both the US and Japanese governments have made serious commitments to China on the Taiwan question. In particular, Japan bears serious historical responsibilities for its aggression against Taiwan and colonial rule over the island, and should all the more honor its words and act prudently. We urge the US to translate President Biden's commitment of not supporting "Taiwan independence" into concrete actions.a

China's activities in the East China Sea and South China Sea are in full compliance with international law and there's nothing wrong about them. The Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory. We will take firm measures against illegal moves that violate China's sovereignty. China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao and its adjacent waters. China stands ready to continue properly handling maritime issues with parties concerned through dialogue and consultation and jointly upholding peace and stability in the South China Sea. In the meantime, no one should violate China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights.

The US and Japan have misrepresented the facts, violated China's territorial sovereignty and breached international law and basic norms in international relations. They pose the real threat to regional peace and stability.

I want to emphasize that China is always a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and a defender of the international order. We will never allow any country to interfere in China's domestic affairs, harm its interests, and smear its image. China will defend its sovereignty, security and development interests, and stay committed to the peace, stability and lasting prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.a

Bloomberg: Can I ask you to clarify a little bit? You made serious dAmarches to relevant parties? Is that specifically the US and Japan? What was the reason for that?

Mao Ning: We made serious dAmarches to relevant parties because the US-Japan Joint Leaders' Statement attacked and smeared China on Taiwan-related, maritime and other issues and blatantly interfered in China's internal affairs.

Yonhap News Agency: The ROK's opposition parties won in yesterday's parliamentary election. How does China view the result? How will it influence the ROK-China relations?a

Mao Ning: The parliamentary election is the ROK's domestic affair. I have no comment on it. China and the ROK are each other's important neighbors and cooperation partners. A sound and stable bilateral relationship serves the interests of both China and the ROK. We hope the ROK will work actively with China towards that end.

Reuters: The US official from the Commerce Department said yesterday the US has added four Chinese companies to an export blacklist for seeking to acquire AI chips for China's military. It also restricted exports to Chinese companies that helped military actions of Russia. What's your comment?

Mao Ning: We strongly oppose US abuse of entities lists and other export controls to go after Chinese companies. We urge the US to stop politicizing trade and tech issues and turning them into weapons. China and Russia have the right to normal economic and trade cooperation, and such cooperation should not come under external interference or constraint. We strongly oppose the US's illegal unilateral sanctions. China will do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies.a

PTI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in an interview to the Newsweek that for India, the relationship with China is important and significant. He said that "it is my belief that we need to urgently address the prolonged situation on our borders so that the abnormality in our bilateral interactions can be put behind us. Stable and peaceful relations between India and China are important for not just our two countries but the entire region. I hope and believe that through positive and constructive bilateral engagement at the diplomatic and military levels, we will be able to restore and sustain peace and tranquility in our borders," Mr. Modi said. What is China's reaction?

Mao Ning: China noted Prime Minister Modi's remarks. Sound and stable China-India relations serve the interests of both countries and are conducive to peace and development in the region and beyond. The boundary question does not represent the entirety of China-India relations, and it should be placed appropriately in bilateral relations and managed properly. China and India maintain close communication through diplomatic and military channels on handling issues related to the border situation and have made positive progress. We hope that India will work with China, approach the bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, keep building trust and engaging in dialogue and cooperation, and seek to handle differences appropriately to put the relationship on a sound and stable track.

Dragon TV: It's reported that President Biden met with Prime Minister Kishida yesterday and issued a joint statement saying that the United States and Japan are resolved to achieve a world without nuclear weapons through realistic and pragmatic approaches and the PRC's accelerating build-up of its nuclear arsenal without transparency nor meaningful dialogue poses a concern to global and regional stability. What's your comment?

Mao Ning: The so-called concern expressed by the US and Japan over China's nuclear policy is a deliberate false narrative. We are firmly against it and will not accept it.

China follows a policy of "no first use" of nuclear weapons and has committed to not using nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states and nuclear-weapon-free zones. China always keeps our nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required by national security. We never engage in any forms of arms race. For any country, as long as they do not use nuclear weapons against China, they will not feel threatened by China's nuclear weapons.

The US sits on the largest and most advanced nuclear arsenal in the world. Even so, it clings to a first-use nuclear policy, devises nuclear deterrence strategies against others and has invested heavily to upgrade its nuclear triad. It has withdrawn from treaties and organizations concerning arms control, enhanced the NATO nuclear alliance and expanded cooperation with allies on advanced military technologies. Japan, as a victim of nuclear explosions, instead of asking the US to conduct nuclear disarmament, chooses to rely on the US's nuclear umbrella to develop advanced missile attack and defense capabilities and work with the US in the forward deployment of its strategic forces. Such negative moves by the US and Japan have undermined strategic balance and stability in the region and the wider world, hindered the international arms control and disarmament processes and disrupted regional peace and tranquility. The international community has reason to be strongly concerned about this.

As a Chinese saying goes, do the right thing before telling others what to do. The US and Japan need to reflect on their behavior and commit themselves to doing the right thing. They should stop undermining the international nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation regime, reduce the role of nuclear weapons in national and collective security policies and act responsibly for the welfare of the world.

AFP: According to Reporters Without Borders, its representative who arrived in Hong Kong yesterday to attend Jimmy Lai's trial was denied entry and deported. Can you give an explanation on that? Is this evidence of the freedom of press being eroded in Hong Kong?

Mao Ning: I am not aware of the specifics you mentioned. About the freedom of press in Hong Kong, what I can tell you is that since Hong Kong's return 26 years ago, the freedom of press and speech has been fully protected by the Basic Law of the Hong Kong SAR and other laws. Recent years have seen an increase in the numbers of international media outlets and journalists in Hong Kong. This is a fact.

China Daily: Ministers from regulatory bodies of China, the US, and the EU held the trilateral summit on consumer product safety yesterday in China. Can you share more details?

Mao Ning: Yesterday, The Eighth China-US-EU Trilateral Summit on Consumer Product Safety was held by the General Administration of Customs of China, the US Consumer Product Safety Committee, and the Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers of the European Commission in Hangzhou. The meeting held in-depth discussions on new approaches to deepening cooperation on consumer product safety under new circumstances and reached new consensus on deepening the trilateral cooperation. A joint statement was published after the meeting. The three sides agreed to set up common standards, explore supervision models and approaches that are smarter and more effective, enhance joint supervision, focus on joint protection of consumer rights and interests, and protect the safety of consumer products.

The China government attaches high importance to the safety of the imported and exported consumer products, and has been committed to enhancing governance capabilities on the safety of consumer products. China has been aligning consumer product safety supervision with international rules, making public the information of consumer products safety, and fostering a market-oriented, law-based and world-class business environment.

President Xi Jinping pointed out that only through win-win cooperation can we make big and sustainable achievements that are beneficial to all. China, the US, and the EU are important forces of the international community and important partners to each other in consumer products trade. There is every reason for us to enhance communication and cooperation. China stands ready to work with partner countries to pool consensus for cooperation, forge synergy in governance, improve global consumer products safety, promote global trade facilitation, and contribute to the well-being of people of all countries.a

Reuters: Hong Kong media reported that Chinese leader will visit Australia. Can you confirm it?

Mao Ning: On that specific question, I have no information to share. What I can say is that with the concerted efforts of China and Australia, bilateral exchange and cooperation at all levels and in various fields have gradually resumed in recent years. Last year, Australian Prime Minister Albanese visited China. The leaders of the two countries reached important common understandings on further improving China-Australia relations. We stand ready to work with Australia to implement the common understandings reached by leaders of the two countries, strengthen high-level exchanges, deepen practical cooperation, enhance mutual understanding and trust, and make the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership more mature, stable and fruitful.

Global Times: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently said he was horrified to learn of the gentleman' s agreement between the Duterte administration and China on Ren'ai Jiao and would ask for clarification regarding the agreement. He also said that he is willing to maintain contact with China at all levels to ease tensions with every effort. What's China's comment?

Mao Ning: First and foremost, I want to stress that Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao and China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao including Ren'ai Jiao and the adjacent waters. China is committed to managing the situation at Ren'ai Jiao with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation. The reason behind the current situation at Ren'ai Jiao is very clear. First, the Philippines went back on its words and refuses to tow away the warship illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao. Second, the Philippines denies the existence of the gentleman's agreement reached with China under the Duterte administration and has repeatedly infringed on China's sovereignty in those waters and made provocations. Third, the Philippines has abandoned the current administration's understandings with China on the Ren'ai Jiao issue, sent construction materials to the grounded warship for large-scale repair and reinforcement in an attempt to permanently occupy Ren'ai Jiao.

If the Philippines truly wants to ease tensions at Ren'ai Jiao through dialogue and communication, it needs to honor the commitments and understandings and stop provocations. On how to deal with the current situation at Ren'ai Jiao, China's position is clear-cut.

First, by keeping its warship grounded at Ren'ai Jiao for decades running, the Philippines has been violating China's sovereignty and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), especially Article 5 which says refraining from action of inhabiting on the presently uninhabited islands and reefs. We demand that the Philippines tow away the warship at once and restore the Ren'ai Jiao's state of hosting zero personnel and facilities.

Second, before the warship is towed away, if the Philippines needs to send living necessities, out of humanitarianism, China is willing to allow it if the Philippines informs China in advance and after on-site verification is conducted. China will monitor the whole process.

Third, if the Philippines sends large amount of construction materials to the warship and attempts to build fixed facilities and permanent outpost, China will not accept it and will resolutely stop it in accordance with law and regulations to uphold China's sovereignty and the sanctity of the DOC.

CCTV: It's reported that China and Georgia yesterday signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for ordinary passport holders, adding another country to the visa-free travel list for Chinese citizens. When will the agreement take effect? What other steps will China take to facilitate cross-border travels? We also noted that the World Tourism Organization in its latest report pointed out that global visa policy openness has been significantly improved and that Asia and the Pacific had the highest openness score in terms of global traveling. What's your comment?

Mao Ning: On April 10, China and Georgia signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for the two countries' ordinary passport holders. The agreement will come into effect and be published after going through legal procedures of both sides. We believe this will further promote cross-border travels and enhance communication and cooperation at various fronts for the two countries.

The Chinese government has rolled out a series of measures to facilitate cross-border travels to contribute to high-quality development and high-level opening up and create better conditions for countries sharing the opportunities brought by China's development. As Foreign Minister Wang Yi said, we hope more countries will work with us to build fast-track networks for cross-border travels, make it more convenient for Chinese citizens to travel abroad, and make foreign friends feel at home in China.

News 1 Korea: The ROK's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the three sides are at the final stage to pin down the date of China-Japan-ROK leaders'ameeting. Japanese media reported previously that this meeting will be held from May 26 to 27. What's China's arrangement for the meeting?

Mao Ning: China attaches importance to China-Japan-ROK cooperation and hopes that the three sides will jointly create conditions for the leaders' meeting. We are ready to maintain communication with the ROK and Japan for the meeting's preparation.

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Hong Kong denies entry to campaigner en route to Jimmy Lai trial

Reporters Without Borders advocate is held, searched and questioned for six hours.

By Alice Yam for RFA Cantonese 2024.04.11 -- An advocacy worker for the Paris-based press freedom group Reporters Without Borders has been denied entry to Hong Kong, en route to monitor the national security trial of pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai.

Taipei-based Aleksandra Bielakowska was held for six hours, searched and questioned after arriving at Hong Kong's International Airport on Wednesday, the group said in a statement.

She had been planning to meet with journalists in the city in the wake of a stringent new security law passed last month under Article 23 of the city's Basic Law, and to monitor a hearing in Lai's ongoing trial, the group said.

"[They asked] what I'm doing here, if it's a work-related visit. I said of course, yes, because I'm [an] NGO worker," Bielakowska said in an interview with RFA Cantonese on Thursday after her return to Taiwan.

"They searched my belongings, in depth, in detail -- they scanned them twice, checked my shoes, everything, checked how much money I had," she said, adding that 12 officers and staff were watching her the whole time she was being interviewed and searched.

"The person who questioned me was an immigration officer, plus there was a customs officer, but I couldn't tell if there were any police or plainclothes officers inside of the room, because they hadn't given me any IDs," Bielakowska said. "But there were some people who didn't look like immigration officers."

Eventually, she was given a notice of refusal of entry, with a reason she described as "nebulous." Immigration officers refused to clarify the reason for the decision, even when asked repeatedly, Bielakowska said.

Hong Kong's immigration authorities have a stated policy of not commenting on individual cases. A form handed to Bielakowska said only that she would be "imminently/immediately" removed from the city "within a reasonable time," and that this justified her detention.

Article 23

The Safeguarding National Security Law, known as "Article 23," was billed by the government as a way to protect the city from interference and infiltration by "hostile foreign forces" that Beijing blames for waves of mass popular protests in recent years.

But its critics -- and some of the city's residents -- say it will likely have far-reaching effects on human rights and freedom of expression that go further than the 2020 National Security Law under which Lai is being prosecuted, with a far broader reach and tougher penalties.

Jimmy Lai stands accused of "collusion with foreign forces" and faces a potential life sentence, yet the case against him relies heavily on opinion articles published in his now-shuttered flagship Apple Daily newspaper.

Bielakowska, who was allowed into Hong Kong in December 2023 to monitor the start of Lai's trial, said Reporters Without Borders, or RSF, isn't a political organization and that she wasn't doing anything "seditious."

"We just fight for the rights of journalists and press freedom around the world," she said. "It's our obligation as an NGO to attend the hearings and the trials."

Bielakowska's colleague, Asia-Pacific Bureau Director CAdric Alviani, was allowed to enter Hong Kong, but returned to Taipei the next day "for security reasons," she said.

'Dire erosion'

RSF said it was "appalled" by the treatment of Bielakowska, who was "simply trying to do her job."

"We have never experienced such blatant efforts by authorities to evade scrutiny of court proceedings in any country, which further highlights the ludicrous nature of the case against Jimmy Lai, and the dire erosion of press freedom and the rule of law in Hong Kong," RSF's Director of Campaigns Rebecca Vincent said in a statement, calling for an immediate explanation from the Hong Kong authorities.

Vincent said the remainder of Lai's national security trial "cannot take place in darkness."

"The world must know what is happening in Hong Kong, which has implications for global press freedom," she said.

The group said it was the first time any of its representatives has been denied entry or questioned at Hong Kong's airport. Its staff had t

raveled there without hindrance in June and December 2023, and were able to meet with journalists and diplomats, as well as monitoring court proceedings without any problems, it said.

RSF said it regularly monitors trials around the world as part of its normal work defending press freedom - from proceedings against journalists in TArkiye, to the ongoing US extradition case against Julian Assange in UK courts.

Plunging rank

Hong Kong ranks 140th out of 180 in RSF's 2023 World Press Freedom Index, having plummeted from 18th place in the past two decades. The rest of China ranks 179th out of 180 countries and territories.

To Yiu-ming, a former assistant professor at the Department of Journalism at Hong Kong's Baptist University, said the questioning of Bielakowska would send a strong message to foreign journalists and international organizations that follow developments in Hong Kong.

"Most importantly, this will have a negative impact on the way that foreign media and the international community view Hong Kong, particularly the impact of the Article 23 legislation on press freedom in Hong Kong," To told RFA Cantonese in an interview on Thursday.

He said that rather than laying down clear guidelines about who will be denied entry, they are proceeding on a case-by-case basis.

"I think [such cases] will be subject to review by national security police," To said.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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What Is Jaish Al-Adl, The Separatist Group Targeting Iranian Forces?

By Kian Sharifi April 11, 2024

Iran's southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan has been rocked by a spate of deadly attacks targeting security forces in recent months.

The attacks have been claimed by Jaish al-Adl, a Baluch separatist militant group that is believed to be operating out of neighboring Pakistan.

On April 3, over a dozen militants attacked military and police installations in two separate cities in the province, killing at least 16 Iranian security personnel. It was the deadliest coordinated attack that had Jaish al-Adl carried out in years.

Six days later, the group ambushed a police convoy in Sistan-Baluchistan and killed five security officers.

What Is Jaish al-Adl?

Jaish al-Adl, or "Army of Justice" in Arabic, emerged in 2012 as the successor to Jundullah, a Baluch militant group.

Jundullah, formed around 2003, carried out sporadic bomb and gun attacks against Iranian security forces. But the group was largely dismantled following a brutal government crackdown and the capture and execution of Jundullah leader Abdolmalek Rigi in 2010.

Rigi's brother, Abdulrauf, established Jaish al-Adl several years later. But he soon left the group and formed Jaish al-Nassr, a separate militant group. The militant leader was killed in Pakistan in 2014, with Baluch separatists accusing Iran of assassinating him. Two years later, Jaish al-Nassr merged with Jaish al-Adl.

Jaish al-Adl is led by Salahuddin Farooqi and is designated as a terrorist organization by Iran and the United States.

Iran alleges that Jaish al-Adl is based in Pakistan and has criticized Islamabad for not cracking down on the group. Pakistan denies that Jaish al-Adl has an organized presence on its territory.

What Does It Want?

Many Jaish al-Adl fighters are members of Iran's ethnic Baluch minority. The group claims that it is fighting for the rights of the Baluchis and seeking independence from the Islamic republic.

Members of the Baluch minority, many of whom are Sunni Muslims in Shi'a-majority Iran, have long faced disproportionate discrimination and violence at the hands of the authorities. Many live in Sistan-Baluchistan, one of Iran's poorest provinces.

Baluchis make up around 5 percent of Iran's population of some 88 million. But they account for around 20 percent of all executions in the country.

During the nationwide antiestablishment protests that rocked Iran in 2022, Sistan-Baluchistan was the scene of the deadliest government crackdown. On September 30 that year, referred to as "Bloody Friday," nearly 100 protesters were gunned down.

Even as the protests died down across most of Iran by early 2023, thousands of people across Sistan-Baluchistan continued to hold weekly protests for months against the clerical regime.

Daniele Garofalo, a researcher and analyst on terrorism and armed groups, says Jaish al-Adl has portrayed itself as a defender of the Sunni Baluch community against "Shi'a oppression."

Who Funds Jaish al-Adl?

Iran over the years has accused its foes of arming Jaish al-Adl, including the United States, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

"Attributing the Baluch resistance solely to American weapons or Saudi funding ignores Iran's decadeslong oppressive policies and its use of force to maintain control over the Baluch," said Kiyya Baloch, a Pakistani journalist and commentator who tracks militancy in the region.

Baloch said that "influential and wealthy Baluch" based in the Arab Persian Gulf states are Jaish al-Adl's primary financial backers. Another "substantial" source of revenue, he said, was the smuggling of drugs. Iran sits on a major opium-smuggling route linking Afghanistan to Europe.

Weapons left behind after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 "fell into the hands of various militant groups," including Jaish al-Adl, according to Baloch, who adds that the separatist group has also procured weapons via the black market.

Garofalo agrees that Tehran's allegations that Jaish al-Adl is backed by foreign states are "highly unfounded." He also notes that the group recently launched an initiative to collect donations in the form of cryptocurrency on its website and Telegram channel.

Is The Group Becoming More Dangerous?

Jaish al-Adl has intensified its attacks against Iranian security forces in recent months. The group claimed an attack in December that killed 11 officers at a police station in Rask, a city in Sistan-Baluchistan. In January, one police officer was killed in an attack on another Rask police station.

Garofalo said Jaish al-Adl is "becoming more brazen in their attacks" and attributed it to the group's increasing recruitment and support from the local population.

He said Jaish al-Adl's attack on April 3 in Rask and the city of Chabahar suggested that its fighters were "on a suicide mission," a tactic passed down from Jundullah.

The authorities have been unable to curb the rising number of attacks in Sistan-Baluchistan, a vast and barren region. "Iran struggles to contain these groups because they operate in extremely remote areas where they have a fair amount of support and the IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps] has little control," Garofalo said.

The group is active along Iran's porous 900-kilometer-long border with Pakistan.

Fatemeh Aman, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Middle East Institute, said that "rising social discontent, aggravated by the government's response to recent protests, might have contributed to an increase in terrorist incidents."

"Typically, poverty, despair, and harsh treatment by the central government create fertile conditions for sympathizing with or joining militia groups," Aman said.

Nevertheless, she adds that Molavi Abdolhamid, Iran's top Sunni cleric and an influential Baluch figure, has "broad sympathy" from members of the community. Abdolhamid, she said, "firmly rejects violence."

Will The Attacks Impact Iran-Pakistan Relations?

In January, Iran carried out drone and missile strikes against what it said were Jaish al-Adl targets over the border in Pakistan.

Tehran said the move was retaliation for the group's attacks in Sistan-Baluchistan in December and January.

In response, Pakistan carried out air strikes against what it said were Pakistani Baluch separatists inside Iran.

Militant activity along the border has long been a source of tension between Iran and Pakistan.

Baloch said the rising number of attacks by Baluch militant groups in Iran as well as in Pakistan "will only deepen the mistrust between the two neighbors."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-jaish-al-adl-baluch- separatists/32901542.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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April 11, 2024

DOD News

U.S., Japan Military-to-Military Relationship Reaches 'New Heights'

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met at the White House with President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan yesterday to participate in discussions related to strengthening the U.S. and Japan relationship.

"Our defense and security ties with Japan form the core of our alliances and are the cornerstone of regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific," Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said during a briefing today at the Pentagon.

"Recognizing that the alliance has reached new heights, we plan to further bolster our defense and security cooperation to allow for greater coordination and integration, he said."

As part of the effort to enhance U.S. and Japan security cooperation, both nations agreed to, for instance, an upgrading of alliance command and control. Doing so would enable better integration of operations and capabilities, plus allow for greater interoperability as well as planning between U.S. and Japanese forces in peacetime and during contingencies.

Also discussed were efforts at bolstering regional networked security. Both countries will cooperate on a networked air defense architecture, incorporating future capabilities with Australia. That includes looking at enhanced cooperation in missile defense information sharing.

The U.S. and Japan also agreed to a deepening of defense industry cooperation, where both nations plan to leverage respective industrial bases to establish an alliance defense production capacity to meet the demand for critical capabilities over the long term.

Ryder said there were dozens of deliverables that came out of the discussions but did not have a specific timeline to share. But he did say that the Defense Department stands ready to do what's asked of it to help the U.S. strengthen the partnership with its long-time ally in the Pacific.

"We are working hard across all levels of the department to deliver on the agreements made by our national leaders and of course doing so in very close concert with our Japanese allies," he said.

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Japanese PM to US lawmakers: US does not have to confront global challenges alone

By Katherine Gypson April 11, 2024

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told U.S. lawmakers Thursday the United States does not have to confront serious global challenges alone, saying Tokyo is upgrading its military capabilities to support its ally.

In a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress, Kishida urged the U.S. to continue its role upholding the international order and addressed skepticism among some Republican lawmakers about continuing aid to Ukraine.

"The leadership of the United States is indispensable. Without U.S. support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow?" Kishida asked during his speech.

Japan has provided $12 billion in aid to Ukraine, including anti-drone detection systems. Kishida also hosted a conference for Ukraine's economic growth.

U.S. lawmakers in support of aid to Ukraine have suggested a failure to confront Russia will send a message to China that it can expand its own ambitions in Taiwan.

"Across the region, America's closest regional allies like Australia and South Korea understand the PRC (People's Republic of China) poses the greatest long-term strategic threat to a free and open Indo-Pacific. But they also understand that what happens in Europe or the Middle East in the near term matters an awful lot to Asia," Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a statement following Kishida's address.

A $96 billion supplemental security package providing aid to Ukraine and Indo-Pacific countries confronting Chinese aggression, passed the Democratic-majority Senate but has been stalled for months in the House of Representatives, which is narrowly controlled by Republicans.

Kishida's plea to U.S. lawmakers comes as part of a three-day state visit to Washington. On Wednesday, Kishida met with President Joe Biden and announced a number of new defense partnerships between the two countries.

The decades-long alliance between the U.S. and Japan is widely seen as key to countering Chinese aggression. Kishida acknowledged the partnership with the U.S. and broader regional alliances Thursday.

"Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?" Kishida said in his address. "Our alliance serves as a force multiplier and together with these like-minded countries, we are working to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific," he said.

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Allied rebel forces capture last battalion in Myanmar border town

Roughly 200 junta soldiers are sheltering in northern Myawaddy near a bridge to Thailand, residents said.

By RFA Burmese 2024.04.11 -- Anti-junta rebels and allied forces on the Thailand-Myanmar border have driven out the military's last battalion from a major trade hub in Myanmar's Kayin state, the ethnic Karen National Union said in a statement on Thursday.

The Karen National Liberation Army -- the armed wing of the Karen National Union, or KNU -- the Karen National Defense Organization, and allied forces overran junta Battalion 275's base in Myawaddy at around 4:30 a.m. on Thursday, the KNU said.

Myawaddy is now fully controlled by rebel forces, said the KNU, bringing an end to their assault on junta positions in the town which began on April 8.

An anti-junta fighter who took part in the ground assaults told RFA Burmese that rebels captured the battalion's base after junta troops refused to surrender.

"Initially, we attempted negotiations for their surrender, but when those efforts failed, we initiated the attack," said the fighter who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. "Upon our assault, they retaliated, and the operation lasted for more than a day ... [before] we successfully took full control of the battalion [base]."

The fighter said rebels had seized a large cache of weapons and ammunition, and are now "engaged in clearance operations" within the area.

At around 10 a.m., military fighter jets conducted two airstrikes in the vicinity of the battalion's base, said residents of Myawaddy, who added that "access to the area is restricted due to road closures," but government offices and police stations "appear to be functioning as usual."

Sheltering near border bridge

One resident said junta soldiers who retreated from the attack were sheltering near the No. 2 Friendship Bridge. The bridge, which connects Myawaddy to Thailand's Mae Sot, is located 10 kilometers (six miles) from the two countries' main immigration passageway and is mainly used for transporting cargo and goods.

"They [junta troops] didn't surrender. They withdrew to Myawaddy's No. 2 bridge," said the resident, who declined to be named. "There are about 200 soldiers, including some injured, in the truck station near that bridge."

Another resident told they observed troops from Battalion 275 along with "nearly 100 family members" near the bridge, which Thai authorities closed to traffic in the afternoon.

"Now Bridge No. 2 is shut down," he said. "The junta's troops and accompanying family members remain stationed at the bridge right now, and the other side has not accepted them yet."

In a statement issued later on Thursday, the KNU said junta soldiers who retreated to Bridge No. 2 "intended to seek refuge in Thailand, but were blocked and have become trapped."

Several sources in Myawaddy told RFA that the commander of the military's No. 44 Light Infantry Division was among junta troops trying to cross the border, and that Colonel Saw Chit Thu, the secretary general of the junta-aligned Karen Border Guard Forces was "coordinating their withdrawal to Thailand." They said "more than 1,000" residents of Myawaddy fled to Thailand to escape the fighting.

When contacted by phone, Saw Chit Thu told RFA that he was "unable to respond at the moment," without providing further details.

The junta has yet to issue an official statement about the latest fighting in Myawaddy and attempts by RFA to contact junta spokesperson Major General Zaw Min Tun went unanswered Thursday.

Pro-junta media reported that Battalion 275 had "temporarily withdrawn" from Myawaddy, but said the town is still under the control of the military.

Thai response to border conflict

Allied forces seized junta Battalions 355, 356 and 357 in nearby Thin Gan Nyi Naung town on April 5, as well as parts of a trade route on the Asian Highway, forcing 67 junta officers, 410 junta troops, and 617 family members to request evacuation through Mae Sot's airport in Thailand on Sunday, according to the KNU. Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs complied on humanitarian grounds.

Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin later instructed Thai security forces and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strictly prohibit Burmese aircraft from entering Thai airspace amid intense fighting in Myanmar, according to BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated media outlet.

BenarNews cited Srettha Thavisin as saying that Myanmar's conflict is an internal matter. He told the Royal Thai Army and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that, in the event of ongoing conflict, they are instructed to inform Thailand's Chief of Defence Forces that the utilization of Thai airspace would be unacceptable, as Thailand does "not want tensions to escalate."

Residents were queuing up at Friendship Bridge No. 1 to cross into Thailand as usual as of Thursday morning, according to people living in Myawaddy.

A Thai immigration superintendent quoted by Reuters said the number of people crossing into Mae Sot from Myawaddy had doubled to almost 4,000 a day.

Translated by Kalyar Lwin. Edited by Joshua Lipes, Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn.

This story has been updated to include additional details about the capture of junta Battalion 275 as well as comments by Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, as reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated media outlet.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Pakistan bans Iran-backed Shiite group fighting in Syria

By Ayaz Gul April 11, 2024

Pakistan has banned the activities of an Iran-backed Shiite militant group allegedly involved in recruiting and sending young Pakistanis to fight in Syria in support of President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

An Interior Ministry directive, seen Thursday by VOA, identified the proscribed outfit as the Zaynabiyoun Brigade, saying it "is engaged in certain activities which are prejudicial to the peace and security" of Pakistan. It did not elaborate.

A ministry official, who spoke to VOA anonymously because he was not authorized to interact publicly with the media, confirmed the authenticity of the March 29 order and placement of the Zaynabiyoun Brigade on a government list of 79 proscribed organizations.

The United States designated the Zaynabiyoun Brigade as a terrorist organization in 2019, saying it is composed of Pakistani nationals and provides "materiel support" to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or IRGC.

The group has reportedly been mobilizing fighters in Pakistan and among Pakistani refugees in Iran, with the IRGC training them for operations in the Syrian civil war, which erupted in 2011.

In January this year, the counterterrorism department in Pakistan's southern Sindh province reported that it had arrested a suspected member of the Zaynabiyoun Brigade, saying the man had played a role in an assassination attempt on a prominent cleric.

The 2019 attack on Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani in the provincial capital of Karachi killed two of his security guards and wounded a fellow religious scholar but the cleric narrowly escaped, unhurt.

Pakistan officials say Pakistani nationals trained to fight in Syria have been returning home and pose a security threat in a country with a history of deadly rivalry between extremists from the majority Sunni Muslim population and the minority Shiite community.

The sectarian violence has killed thousands of people over the years but lately has subsided.

Islamabad's listing of the Tehran-backed militant group comes amid border tensions stemming from mutual allegations of terrorism.

In early January, Iranian security forces carried out drone and missile strikes inside Pakistan against what they said were sanctuaries for anti-Iran militants. Pakistani forces retaliated with similar strikes inside Iran against what they said were bases of fugitive insurgents.

Separately on Thursday, Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi, held a telephone conversation. Zardari's office said in a statement that the leaders discussed, among other issues, security cooperation.

Zardari "underlined the need to enhance the exchange of information to overcome the security challenges being faced by the two countries," the statement said.

The countries share a 900-kilometer border and routinely accuse each other of supporting or not doing enough to stop cross-border militant infiltration.

Fatemiyoun Division

The IRGC is also believed to have formed a militia comprising nationals from neighboring Afghanistan and hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees in Iran. The militia, called the Fatemiyoun Division, has been designated as a terrorist group by Washington.

"The Fatemiyoun Division ... preys on the millions of undocumented Afghan migrants and refugees in Iran, coercing them to fight in Syria under threat of arrest or deportation," the U.S. Treasury Department said while announcing the group's designation along with the Zaynabiyoun Brigade in 2019.

"Treasury's targeting of Iran-backed militias and other foreign proxies is part of our ongoing pressure campaign to shut down the illicit networks the [Iranian] regime uses to export terrorism and unrest across the globe," the U.S. statement said.

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Kara-Murza's Wife Accuses Russia Of Using Punitive Cell To Hasten Prisoners' Illnesses

By Olena Abramovych April 11, 2024

BRUSSELS -- The wife of Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza said her husband has been held in solitary confinement for the last six months in a jail cell that is just a few square meters with a single stool, a tiny window covered with bars, and a bed that folds into the wall.

Yevgenia Kara-Murza, speaking in an interview on April 10 with Current Time, said Russian prison authorities initially called it a punitive isolation cell but later renamed it an EKPT, an acronym that stands for single-premise punitive cell. Most likely that was because Russian law does not allow an inmate to be held in a punitive cell for more than 15 days, she said.

"Therefore, they just renamed the cell to make it legitimate," Kara-Murza told Current Time, the Russian-language network run by RFE/RL in cooperation with VOA.

Kara-Murza described her husband's situation one day before the second anniversary of his arrest for criticizing President Vladimir Putin and his decision to invade Ukraine.

After his arrest on April 11, 2022, he was charged with discrediting the Russian military after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He was later additionally charged with treason over remarks he made in speeches outside Russia that criticized Kremlin policies.

He is serving a 25-year sentence -- the longest jail term handed to a Kremlin opponent in post-Soviet Russia -- in a penal colony in Omsk.

Yevgenia Kara-Murza spoke with Current time about her husband's detention after appearing at a joint press conference at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, with the relatives of other people held in Russian jails for opposing the regime.

She said that he is given writing tools and allowed to take a walk alone in a tiny yard each day. The only human communication he has is with his lawyer, she added. But in letters to his two children, he always jokes, she said, describing such things as cats sunbathing on the metal mesh over the outdoor space that he walks in.

But on a more serious note, she said Kara-Murza has not received any medical assistance for at least six months. Her husband has a condition called polyneuropathy, which developed after he fell deathly ill on two separate occasions in Moscow -- in 2015 and 2017-- with symptoms consistent with poisoning.

Polyneuropathy is a painful condition in which the nerves in the extremities slowly die. It will continue to progress in the conditions that Kara-Murza currently is in, Yevgenia Kara-Murza said, adding that she believes solitary confinement cells such as the EKPT are used intentionally by the Russian authorities for inmates with medical conditions "to make sure that their health state gets even worse."

This was the case for former Moscow municipal lawmaker Aleksei Gorinov, who is serving a seven-year prison sentence handed down in July 2022 for his stance against Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and for noted historian Yury Dmitriyev, who is serving a lengthy sentence on charges related to photographs of his foster daughter, she said.

They have been sent to punitive cells many times on "absolutely trumped-up reasons," Yevgenia Kara-Murza said, adding that opposition politician Aleksei Navalny was treated similarly before he died in February.

Yevgenia Kara-Murza suggested the world should respond to Russia's treatment of jailed opposition politicians by calling its presidential election in March illegitimate.

"It will be very important if the international community calls the situation what it is, calls Putin what he is: a usurper, dictator, and illegal leader of the Russian Federation, who, of course, did not win the election because all his real rivals either had to leave the country...were put behind bars, or were murdered like Boris Nemtsov and Aleksei Navalny," she said.

A rejection of Putin as a partner on the international stage also would be an expression of solidarity with the Russians who have been locked up by the regime or who fled the country but continue to work as activists, journalists, and volunteers.

She also called on the European Parliament to appoint a special envoy on the rights of political prisoners in Russia. The envoy would be able to meet with the relatives of the people who are being held and share information about political repression.

She believes that the release of her husband and other opponents of the Kremlin who are held in Russian jails could come when the war in Ukraine ends with a victory for Ukraine. But she warned that there are prisoners in Russia who might not make it until then because they are being held in such "horrible conditions."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kara-murza-wife-russia-prison- conditions/32899919.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russia has procured ballistic missiles and artillery shells from North Korea for direct use against Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN General Assembly meeting on North Korea's illegal nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

11 April 2024

On 28 March, Russia vetoed a draft UN Security Council resolution to renew the mandate for the important work of the 1718 committee's Panel of Experts, which upholds the global non-proliferation regime. This veto completely disregards resolutions Russia has previously voted for; resolutions which protect the non-proliferation regime and international peace and security.

As a result of Russia's veto, the UN membership will no longer receive reports from the Panel about North Korea's accelerating nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. It will not receive Panel updates about North Korea's and Russia's sanction evasion practices, which now risk going unreported.

This veto was designed to conceal Russia's partnership with North Korea and make it easier for North Korea to escalate its unlawful weapons programmes. In turn, this enables Russia to breach and evade UN sanctions to get arms and ammunition from North Korea for its illegal invasion of Ukraine.

The Security Council, and this Assembly, know Russia has procured several dozen ballistic missiles and millions of artillery shells from North Korea, for direct use against Ukraine, Ukraine's people, and civilian infrastructure.

So with this veto, Russia has abused its position as a permanent member of this Council to undermine the global non-proliferation regime and global security.

But let's be clear to Russia: the UN sanctions regime remains in place. And the UK remains committed to holding North Korea to account for its attempts to evade UN sanctions.

In conclusion, President, I wish to extend our deep gratitude to the 1718 Panel of Experts, and to the United States for their work as penholder in the Security Council. The Panel's credible, objective, and independent reporting enabled the international community to monitor the implementation of UN sanctions and helped to prevent North Korea's unlawful and dangerous development of nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

We will continue to work with all Member States to ensure oversight and implementation of UN sanctions on North Korea in support of the nuclear non-proliferation regime and to uphold international peace and security.

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We urge the Russian authorities to release British national Vladimir Kara-Murza on humanitarian grounds immediately: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

11 April 2024

Thank you, President.

I would like to join others in thanking DPPA and OCHA for their informative briefings.

Colleagues, again, this Council meets following a brutal campaign of airstrikes by Russia, a permanent member of this Council, against Ukraine. Since 20 March, these attacks have intensified, with over 1,000 missiles, drones, and guided aerial bombs dropped in one week alone. Dozens of civilians, including children, have been injured or killed in the last days alone. As a result of Russia's continued aggression, approximately 40% of Ukraine's population will need humanitarian assistance this year.

I would like to make three points. First, Russia is deliberately targeting energy infrastructure. Just this morning, Russia's strikes destroyed Trypillya power plant, one of Ukraine's largest providers of electricity and heat to civilians. Russia's attacks are leaving millions of people without power and water, cutting electricity to hospitals, threatening the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and delaying life-saving humanitarian operations. We urge Russia to immediately cease its targeting of civilian infrastructure and comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law.

Second, since Russia's invasion, the international community has come together in support of the people of Ukraine. The UK has committed over A350 million in humanitarian aid since February 2022 to support the valiant efforts of the UN and international and local NGOs to help those people in the most dire humanitarian need. But millions of these people are currently living on the frontlines and in Ukrainian territory illegally controlled by Russia, where Russia continues to deny humanitarian access. Russia needs to heed the repeated calls of Council members, to allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access, so humanitarian aid can reach those who need it most.

Third, Russian aggression in Ukraine is enabled by repression at home. The Russian authorities are curtailing freedoms of association, assembly and expression. They also continue to disregard British national Vladimir Kara-Murza's declining health in Russian prison. On today, the second anniversary of Vladimir's arrest, we urge the Russian authorities to release him immediately on humanitarian grounds. Madam President, Ukraine is facing a protracted humanitarian emergency. There is an easy solution to this suffering: for Russia to end this war, withdraw from Ukrainian territory, and respect its commitments under international law and the UN Charter.

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UK and others call for immediate humanitarian release of Vladimir Kara-Murza: Joint Statement to the OSCE

UK and other OSCE participating States call for immediate release of Vladimir Kara-Murza and denounce the degrading and inhumane conditions in which he is held.

11 April 2024

Thank you, Madam Chair. I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, the United States and my own country the United Kingdom.

Today marks the second anniversary of the arrest of dual British-Russian national Vladimir Kara-Murza.

Mr Kara-Murza is a champion of human rights. He strives for a democratic Russia and opposes the illegal invasion of Ukraine. He was arrested and later sentenced to 25 years in prison for engaging in legitimate criticism of the political situation in Russia.

Since then, the Russian authorities have callously disregarded Mr Kara-Murza's declining health, refusing him the urgent medical treatment he so desperately needs. Having been poisoned in 2015 and 2017, his degrading and inhumane prison conditions are clearly designed to inflict further damage to both his physical and mental health.

Two years since his arrest, we urge the Russian authorities to release him immediately on humanitarian grounds.

As this Council knows only too well, the human rights situation in Russia has deteriorated significantly in the past two years. The authorities have persisted in severely curtailing the freedoms of association, assembly and expression. And Russia continues to fail to uphold fundamental human dimension commitments.

Working together, the UK and others will continue to hold Russia to account through the OSCE as well as other international fora. In particular, we look forward to discussing the Moscow Mechanism expert report on allegations of arbitrary detention of Ukrainian civilians by the Russian Federation in this Council.

And we recall the invocation of the Vienna Mechanism by 41 participating States on 22 March 2024 in respect of serious human rights concerns including political repression as well as torture and mistreatment of prisoners in Russia.

The United Kingdom and Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the United States stand united in calling for Mr Kara-Murza's immediate humanitarian release as well as the release of those imprisoned in Russia on political grounds.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

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Foreign Secretary David Cameron marks 2 years since the arrest of Vladimir Kara-Murza for opposing Russia's illegal war in Ukraine.

11 April 2024

Foreign Secretary David Cameron said:

Two years on from Vladimir Kara-Murza's arrest on fabricated charges, I urge the Russian authorities to release him immediately on humanitarian grounds.

A committed human rights activist striving for a democratic Russia, and an outspoken critic of the war in Ukraine, Mr Kara-Murza was considered a threat by the Kremlin. Putin locked him up in a bid to silence him.

We must call out Russia's callous disregard for his declining health. The victim of two separate poisoning attempts prior to his imprisonment, Mr Kara-Murza is now being subjected to degrading and inhumane conditions in prison, clearly designed to further damage his physical and mental well-being. He has been refused the urgent medical treatment he so desperately needs.

Through diplomatic interventions at the highest levels, financial sanctions targeted at those behind his poisoning and imprisonment, and by raising his case on the international stage, we are sending a clear message that the UK will not stand for this abhorrent treatment of one of our citizens.

Russia's depraved treatment of political prisoners must end.
PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Apr. 11, 2024

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2024/04/11

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1. Dateis

6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Wednesday to Thursday, Apr. 10-11

2.PLA activitiesis

14 PLA aircraft and 5 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 6 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern and eastern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities.



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UK to hold joint military exercises with US and Japan to boost security and strengthen defence ties

The trilateral exercises will build on previous operations between the three countries - underlining the UK's commitment to the Indo-Pacific.

11 April 2024

The UK, US and Japan will hold regular trilateral military exercises in the Indo-Pacific from 2025 to boost security in the region and further develop the ability of each country's armed forces to operate together.

The Indo-Pacific is particularly important for the UK due to growing economic ties with countries in the region, and the UK already conducts various exercises in the area - with HMS Spey and HMS Tamar continuously deployed.

The trilateral exercises will build on previous operations between the three countries - underlining the UK's commitment to the Indo-Pacific.

Last year, the Prime Minister signed the Atlantic Declaration with US President Joe Biden, and agreed the Hiroshima Accord with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, both of which committed the UK to further increase defence activity with each country - with a particular focus on bolstering collective security and mutual prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

In an increasingly volatile world where we can no longer take peace for granted, it's critical to stand united with our allies and partners in defence of democracy and freedom. Conducting joint exercises sends a strong message to anyone who would seek to undermine the rules-based international order - our defence relationships are not limited by distance and we stand ready to respond to any threat around the globe. A safe and stable Indo-Pacific is vital to our collective security, allowing free and unhindered trade and travel, and our world-leading partnerships with Japan and the US further emphasise our commitment to the region.

Next year, Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales will be deployed to the region at the head of a Carrier Strike Group, which will conduct a series of operations and exercises with partners and allies - including a port visit in Japan. It follows the successful deployment of her sister ship, HMS Queen Elizabeth, to the region in 2021.

Further work to boost regional security is taking place between the UK and US via the AUKUS programme, which will see the construction of conventionally-armed nuclear-powered submarines to be delivered to Australia's navy. The programme is providing a massive boost to the UK's defence industry, with the Defence Secretary having visited Australia last month where it was confirmed a British business will partner with an Australian company to build the submarines.

An announcement on Monday confirmed for Pillar Two of the AUKUS programme, which focuses on collaboration around the development of advanced new military technologies, that Australia, the UK, and US will consult with other countries, including Japan, to potentially contribute to the programme.

The UK also works closely with Japan as part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which, along with Italy, will deliver a next-generation fighter jet to enter service from 2035 in a significant capability boost for all countries involved.

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Finland continued to support Ukraine through development assistance in 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland

Press releases, 11.4.2024

The support for Ukraine following Russia's invasion was clearly reflected in the 2023 official development assistance spending (ODA) of Finland and many other EU Member States, according to data released by the OECD today. Ukraine was the largest recipient of Finland's ODA for the second consecutive year.

Today, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) released preliminary data on official development assistance (ODA) in 2023 by the 32 member countries of its Development Assistance Committee (DAC).

The preliminary data shows that Ukraine received by far the largest amount of assistance. DAC members used EUR 18.5 billion (USD 20.0 billion) in ODA to support Ukraine in 2023.

Finland's ODA spending decreased

Finland's official development assistance (ODA) in 2023 totalled EUR 1,452 million, showing a decline of EUR 84 million on 2022. This represented 0.52 per cent of Finland's gross national income (GNI), according to the OECD's preliminary data. In real terms, Finland's ODA spending fell by 9.5 per cent.

Finland's exclusive ODA, administered by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, totalled EUR 750 million, while Finland's other ODA totalled EUR 702 million. Other ODA include Finland's share of the EU's ODA budget, development policy loans and investments and a part of the costs generated by refugee reception.

The greatest reduction was seen in in-donor refugee costs counted as ODA. In 2023, the costs were EUR 231 million, showing a decline of EUR 159 million on 2022. A very significant part of the sum was still spent on addressing the temporary protection needs of Ukrainians in Finland. The overall change was balanced by development policy loans and investments, whose ODA-eligible share was EUR 108 million in 2023, showing a rise of EUR 58 million on the previous year.

UN is the main partner, Ukraine the largest recipient

A significant share of Finland's ODA in 2023 was channelled through the UN (EUR 310 million), the EU (EUR 268 million) and the World Bank Group (EUR 156 million). An estimated EUR 370 million, representing 0.13 per cent of Finland's GNI, was allocated to least developed countries (LDCs), including imputed shares of multilateral organisations. Preliminary data shows that a total of EUR 64 million was spent on supporting Ukraine (excluding in-donor refugee costs).

Last year, Finland granted EUR 125 million in humanitarian assistance as part of the official development assistance. Humanitarian assistance is a way of responding rapidly to sudden effects of natural disasters, armed conflicts and other crises when people's lives are in imminent danger.

ODA in other OECD and EU countries

Globally, official development assistance (ODA) amounted to USD 223.7 billion (EUR 206.9 billion) in 2023, rising by 1.8 per cent in real terms compared to the previous year. The largest donors were the United States, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and France. Among the members of the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), Denmark, Germany, Luxembourg, Norway and Sweden exceeded the UN's ODA target of 0.7 per cent of GNI. Total ODA for all DAC member countries combined as a per cent of GNI stood at 0.37 per cent.

Together, the EU and its Member States were the largest donor of ODA. The ODA expenditure of the EU Member States that are members of DAC totalled USD 85.9 billion (EUR 92.9 billion), representing 42 per cent of total ODA and 0.52 per cent of the combined GNI of the DAC-EU countries. The expenditure fell by 7.7 per cent in real terms compared to 2022.

14 member countries of the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) increased their ODA expenditure, whereas in 17 DAC member countries ODA expenditure fell.

The final statistics for the year 2023 will be published at the end of 2024. The data will be updated as regards the regional breakdown of spending, among other data. Finland's ODA to GNI ratio may change as well once Statistics Finland revises its GNI estimate.

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Update 222 - IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

International Atomic Energy Agency

34/2024

Vienna, Austria

11 Apr 2024

Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi today called for maximum military restraint and full observance of the five concrete principles for protecting Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), days after a series of drone attacks had "significantly" increased the risk of a nuclear accident at the site.

Addressing an extraordinary meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Director General Grossi said it was of paramount importance to ensure that "these reckless attacks do not mark the beginning of a new and gravely dangerous front of the war".

The IAEA Director General will address the United Nations Security Council in New York on Monday.

Today's session of the 35-nation Board was convened by its Chair after he received two separate requests from the Russian Federation and Ukraine for such a meeting.

"I firmly appeal to military decision makers to abstain from any action violating the IAEA's five concrete principles to prevent a nuclear accident and ensure the integrity of the plant and I urge the international community actively to work towards a de-escalation of what is a very serious situation," Director General Grossi said in his opening statement.

The meeting was held less than a week after three drone strikes hit the site of the ZNPP, endangering nuclear safety and security and deepening concern about the already highly precarious situation at Europe's largest nuclear power plant (NPP), located on the frontline of the armed conflict.

It was the first time since November 2022 that the ZNPP was directly targeted in military action. It also represented a clear violation of the five principles aimed at protecting the facility that were established by Director General Grossi at the United Nations Security Council in May last year and, he told the Board, "shifted us into an acutely consequential juncture in this war".

Although the strikes - as well as others reported by the plant both before and after Sunday's events - did not cause damage compromising nuclear safety and security at the ZNPP, they marked a "major escalation" of the dangers, Director General Grossi said.

Stressing that "no one can conceivably benefit or gain any military or political advantage" by attacking a nuclear power plant, he said:

"I urge you to make this your highest priority and to support me and the IAEA in doing everything in your power to stop this devastating war becoming unconscionably more dangerous through further attacks on the Zaporizhzhya NPP or any other nuclear power plant."

At the site in southern Ukraine, the team of IAEA experts stationed there have continued to report about the frequent sound of military action, including numerous rounds of outgoing artillery fire from near the facility.

Despite the heightened military-related challenges in recent days, the IAEA experts have conducted walkdowns across the site over the past week, visiting the main control rooms of the six reactor units, the off-site radiation monitoring laboratory, as well as the site's radioactive waste storage facility.

However, they were not granted access to parts of the turbine hall of unit 2 when they went to this reactor, nor to some parts of the waste facility, which meant they were not able to verify its current status. As reported previously, the ZNPP has not provided timely and appropriate access for the IAEA experts to all areas that are important to nuclear safety and security.

"In these extremely challenging circumstances, the presence of IAEA experts at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is more important than ever. Their impartial and technical work enables us to inform the world about events there in an independent and timely manner. In order to carry out these crucial tasks, they need prompt and unrestricted access to all areas that are important for nuclear safety and security," Director General Grossi said.

Separately, the ZNPP informed the IAEA experts that it intends to start transitioning unit 4 to cold shutdown from tomorrow morning, after the nearby town of Enerhodar - where most plant staff live - officially ended the winter heating season.

The ZNPP stopped generating electricity for the national grid in September 2022, but it has kept at least one of its six units in hot shutdown to provide district heating as well as process steam for liquid waste treatment at the site.

After the plant earlier this year started operating four newly-installed diesel steam generators to handle such waste, as recommended by the IAEA, reactor unit 4 has remained in hot shutdown primarily to help keep Enerhodar warm. The five other reactors are in cold shutdown.

When in cold shutdown, in case the heat removal is interrupted, there is an additional response margin of several days before the cooling of the nuclear fuel in the reactor might be challenged. The reactor also needs less cooling water than in hot shutdown.

"Switching to cold shutdown is a positive step for nuclear safety and security, although one that is currently overshadowed by the great military dangers facing the plant," Director General Grossi said.

The ZNPP separately informed the IAEA team that the plant - throughout the past week - once again had access to its only remaining back-up power line, which was lost in early April. The plant now has access to one of its four main 750 kilovolt (kV) power lines, as well as the last of six 330 kV back-up lines, which was disconnected for a few days.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, the IAEA experts at the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs as well as at the Chornobyl site have reported that nuclear safety and security continues to be maintained, despite multiple air raid alarms that occurred over the past week. Units 1 and 4 at the Rivne NPP are in planned outage. The IAEA experts at the Khmelnytskyy NPP rotated on 8 April.

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Latvia and Ukraine sign a historic agreement on long-term security commitments

Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

11.04.2024

On 11 April 2024, the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkevics, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signed the Agreement between the Republic of Latvia and Ukraine on Long-Term Support and Security Commitments (the Agreement), which will facilitate an even closer bilateral cooperation between the two countries, as well as providing contribution to the strengthening of overall security in Europe.

The Agreement reaffirms Latvia's strong and unwavering support to Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor. Latvia will provide Ukraine with comprehensive military and non-military assistance of Latvia to Ukraine as well as continuing support towards its membership of the European Union and NATO.

Under the Agreement, Latvia commits itself to providing Ukraine with military support to the amount of 0.25% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2026, as well as support of EUR 5 million annually for Ukraine's reconstruction until 2026.

The Agreement lays down specific areas of military support, including activities in the Latvian-led Coalition of Drones, the supply of military equipment and weapons, and training of military personnel.

One of the key elements of the Agreement is the establishment of a consultation mechanism in the event of a repeated armed attack by Russia on Ukraine in the future.

Latvia's non-military support concerns development cooperation, support for the reconstruction of the Chernihiv region, cooperation in the field of digital, energy and cyber security, as well as prevention of hybrid threats. The Agreement also provides for close cooperation in international organisations, among other things, by Ukraine expressing formal support for the candidacy of Latvia for a seat on the United Nations Security Council (2026-2027).

The Agreement has been concluded for the term of ten years, with the possibility of being amended and extended by both parties. It is implementing Latvia's long-term commitments under the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine signed on 12 July 2023 by the Group of Seven (G7) and partner countries. The Agreement was drawn up by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in close cooperation with the line ministries. The Foreign Ministry also led negotiations with the Ukrainian side.

The Agreement was signed in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, during the Three Seas Initiative Summit.

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Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada ratifies the Latvia-Ukraine Technical and Financial Cooperation Agreement

Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

11.04.2024

On 10 April 2024, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine ratified the Agreement on Technical and Financial Cooperation between the Government of Latvia and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

The Agreement provides the legal framework for the implementation of development cooperation programmes and reconstruction projects by Latvia in Ukraine; it will also facilitate the provision of technical and financial assistance to Ukraine. The Agreement envisages various advantages for the implementers of reconstruction projects, for instance, goods and services imported under the technical and financial assistance projects will be exempt from taxes, licences for temporary import of goods will be issued, and experts will be granted facilitations during their stay in Ukraine.

In accordance with the Agreement, all reconstruction projects implemented by Latvia will be registered with the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

Background information

The Agreement was approved by the Latvian Government on 28 November 2023.

During the visit of the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Latvia on 11 January 2024, the Agreement was signed by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Latvia and Ukraine.

Latvia has been involved in the reconstruction of Ukraine since 2022 and has been restoring social infrastructure and housing and providing psychological support to war-affected women. Latvia also intends to engage in rebuilding of Ukraine in the coming years. In 2024, EUR 5.4 million will be allocated from State budget towards the reconstruction of Ukraine.

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Landsbergis meets with the Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs: "Ukraine needs more military support. We are ready to support all initiatives"

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

2024.04.11

On 11 April, Lithuania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gabrielius Landsbergis, met with the Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan GrliA Radman. The meeting focused on support for Ukraine, security and defence issues, preparations for the NATO summit in Washington, D.C., in July and the EU agenda.

"The situation in Ukraine is still dire. The only way to reverse the situation is to provide as much military support to Ukraine as possible. Without it, it is extremely difficult to protect Kyiv," Landsbergis said.

The Foreign Ministers also discussed the EU enlargement at the meeting. Landsbergis stressed the need to start negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on EU membership as soon as possible: "Let's not delay this. Any delay in the negotiations could undermine the credibility of the EU in the eyes of the Ukrainian and Moldovan people," Landsbergis noted.

Lithuania's Foreign Minister also thanked Croatia for its contribution to the security of our region: Croatia sent its military contingent to participate in NATO's enhanced forward presence battalion in Lithuania in 2018, 2020 and 2023.

The Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Radman, is participating in the Three Seas Summit in Lithuania.

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Minister of National Defence L. Kasciunas met with Ukrainian counterpart R. Umerov in Kyiv

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2024-04-11

International cooperation

While on visit in Kyiv, Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasciunas met with Minister of Defence of Ukraine Rustem Umerov. The counterparts discussed Ukraine's most pressing issues of today: shortage of ammunition and weaponry, military and financial assistance, the bilateral security agreement between Lithuania and Ukraine planned to be concluded.

"Our strategic goal is to ensure the continuity of assistance to Ukraine. Minister R. Umerov and I have discussed military assistance to Ukraine that they are in the most urgent need of right now. Another welcome piece of news today is Ukraine's signature of the Protocol of Intent to form the Demining Coalition under the leadership of Lithuania and Iceland. It has been also agreed to establish a bilateral Defence Industry Council, a platform for exchange of military technology advance experience," said L. Kasciunas after the meeting with T. Umerov.

Other themes addressed at the meeting were the shortage of ammunition and the necessity to stimulate defence industry and adherence to multilateral initiatives with production and procurement of weaponry and ammunition or by stepping up the scope of its production. Ministers touched upon Lithuania's ambition to take forward the drone and drone jamming equipment production: a very relevant decision to the Ukrainian side as well. The Ukrainians could contribute to par of the technologies in drone and anti-drone production and to share experience in the equipment operation on the battlefield.

Another topic addressed at the meeting was Lithuania's decision to join the Latvian-led Drone Coalition: drones are planned to be purchased from Lithuanian manufacturers for transferring to Ukraine in the framework. Lithuania has decided to also contribute EUR 35 million in adherence to the Czech-proposed multilateral initiative for acquiring ammunition for Ukraine.

Minister L. Kasciunas praised the compromise reached at the European Union on the EUR 5 billion Ukraine Assistance Fund. However, similar amounts are needed ion a yearly basis.

Ministers also discussed military personnel training and medical rehabilitation as well. It has been announced three days ago that Lithuania would contribute to installation and service development of three rehabilitation centers in Lviv, Dnipro and Zhytomyr. The effort will be financed with approx. EUR 15 million from the Lithuanian Development Cooperation Fund and MoD financial assets. Lithuania will aim to attract other international donors to this initiative as well.

This year Lithuania has transferred 155mm ammunition, M577 armored personnel carriers, drone-jamming systems, winter gear and tens of thousands sets of warm clothing, thousands of rounds for and Carl Gustaf anti-tank recoilless rifle and RISE-1 remote initiation system sets.

The assistance Lithuania renders to Ukraine is sustained and long-term and amounts to a billion euros already. The military assistance so far has reached approx. EUR 610 million. This year alone has seen approx. EUR 84 million worth of assistance to Ukraine, a dynamic aimed to become the norm.

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Drone jamming equipment, power generators, folding field beds delivered to Ukraine

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2024-04-11

International cooperation

As Lithuania is rendering continued military assistance to Ukraine, the war-torn country received drone jamming equipment, power generators and folding field beds for its Armed Forces from Lithuania on April 11.

"Lithuania's assistance to Ukraine is sustained and continuous, and were are doing everything possible to keep increasing it. The weaponry and equipment supplied by Lithuania and the Allies is a critical factor in Ukraine's struggle for freedom," said Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasciunas.

This year Lithuania has transferred 155mm ammunition, M577 armored personnel carriers, drone-jamming systems, winter gear and tens of thousands sets of warm clothing, thousands of rounds for and Carl Gustaf anti-tank recoilless rifle and RISE-1 remote initiation system sets.

The assistance Lithuania renders to Ukraine is sustained and long-term and amounts to a billion euros already. The military assistance so far has reached approx. EUR 610 million. This year alone has seen approx. EUR 84 million worth of assistance to Ukraine, a dynamic aimed to become the norm.

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The President: Western military support is crucial for Ukraine's victory

President of the Republic of Lithuania

April 11, 2024

President Gitanas NausAda met on Thursday in Vilnius with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The two leaders discussed the situation on the frontline, the urgent need for military and financial assistance, and Lithuania's bilateral support for Ukraine.

At the meeting, Gitanas NausAda underlined that Lithuania, with up to 2% of its GDP for supporting Ukraine, is and will remain one of the staunchest supporters of the country.

"The future of the whole of Europe is being decided in Ukraine, and what that future will be depends on what we all do today. That is why Lithuania has and will continue to actively mobilize military and humanitarian support of international allies to Ukraine. Lithuania has been and will be with you until victory," the President spoke.

Gitanas NausAda emphasized that Lithuania will continue to support Ukraine's fight against the aggressor by military means. According to the Head of State, this year alone Lithuania has already provided a80 million worth of military assistance to Ukraine, including a35 million to the Czech initiative to procure ammunition. Lithuania has supplied anti-drones, ammunition, military clothing, and in April and May, M113 armored personnel carriers, generators and logistical support will be shipped to Ukraine.

The Head of State underlined that Lithuania will continue to lead the international demining coalition and is ready to take an active part in Ukraine's reconstruction projects.

According to President Gitanas NausAda, Lithuanian businesses are particularly interested in cooperating with Ukraine in the production of drones and anti-drones and in other areas of defense industry.

"We cannot let the aggressor win. Ukraine will win and we will celebrate this victory together. This is the only scenario we are talking about here in Lithuania," Gitanas NausAda said.

The President's Communication Group

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Zelenskiy In Vilnius To Press For Aid As Russia Strikes Power Infrastructure

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service April 11, 2024

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has again called on Ukraine's allies to give the embattled country more air-defense systems as Russia struck Ukrainian energy infrastructure targets, including a major power plant south of Kyiv, killing at least four people and leaving hundreds of thousands Ukrainians without electricity.

The coal-powered Trypilska thermal power plant, a major electricity supplier for the Kyiv, Cherkasy, and Zhytomyr regions located some 50 kilometers south of the capital, was completely destroyed in the Russian attack, Ukrainian energy company Centrenerho said on April 11.

Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said that energy infrastructure was the main target of the Russian missile and drone strikes on the Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhya, Lviv, and Kyiv regions.

President Vladimir Putin said Russia had been obliged to launch strikes on Ukrainian energy sites in response to Kyiv's attacks on Russian targets.

"Unfortunately, we observed a series of strikes on our energy sites recently and were obliged to respond," Putin said after a meeting on April 11 with Belarus's authoritarian ruler, Alyaksandr Lukashenka.

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, which is less that 30 kilometers from the Russian border, was again one of the main targets of Russian strikes in the early hours of April 11, with 10 air strikes that cut the energy supply to more than 200,000 consumers in the city.

Russian attacks on Kharkiv have intensified in recent weeks. Mayor Ihor Terekhov said recently that S-300 missiles need only 40 seconds to reach Kharkiv from the Russian region of Belgorod.

Russian ballistic missiles struck the southern city of Mykolayiv at noon on April 11, killing four people and wounding five, the Ukrainian military and the head of the regional military administration, Vitaliy Kim, said.

Zelenskiy, who arrived in Lithuania's capital, Vilnius, for a summit of the Three Seas Initiative, said he and Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics had signed a bilateral security agreement as he seeks to shore up aid and support in the face of unrelenting attacks from Russia.

"The main task for now is to make every effort to strengthen our air-defense system, to meet the urgent needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, and to consolidate international support so that we can overcome Russian terror," Zelenskiy wrote on X, formerly Twitter, upon arrival in Vilnius.

Zelenskiy earlier said Russia had attacked with scores of drones and missiles that overwhelmed Ukraine's dwindling air-defense systems and ammunition.

"More than 40 missiles and about 40 attack drones. Some of the rockets and Shahed [drones] were shot down. Unfortunately, only a part," Zelenskiy wrote on Telegram, calling the latest attack "vile."

Ukraine's air force separately said that during the April 11 attack its air defenses destroyed 39 drones, 16 cruise missiles, and two guided missiles.

Zelenskiy made another impassioned appeal to Ukraine's allies to act faster and provide Ukraine with the means to defend itself.

"Air defense and other defense support are needed, not turning a blind eye and long discussions," Zelenskiy wrote, adding that permitting Moscow to bomb Ukraine with impunity ammounted to giving Russia carte blanche to terrorize the world.

"If Russia is allowed to continue to do this, if Russian missiles and 'Shaheds' will strike not only at Ukraine but also at the determination of its partners, this will be a global license for terror," he wrote.

A $60 billion U.S. aid package has been stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives for months, blocked by a small number of Republicans who believe domestic matters should take priority, despite both the State Department and Defense Department pushing Congress to pass it.

Japan's prime minister told U.S. lawmakers that Ukraine risks collapsing under Russia's onslaught without U.S. support, a disaster that could embolden China and spark a new crisis in East Asia.

In the first speech to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress by a Japanese leader in nine years, Fumio Kishida urged Americans on April 11 not to doubt their country's "indispensable" role in world affairs, and said Tokyo was undertaking historic military upgrades to support its ally.

On support for Ukraine, he asked, "Without U.S. support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow?"

On April 10, the top U.S. general in Europe warned that Ukraine cannot sustain the fight against Russia alone.

General Christopher Cavoli, the commander of European Command, told the House Armed Services Committee on April 10 that the severity of the situation in Ukraine "can't be overstated" as troops on the battlefield run short of ammunition and as the country's air-defense capabilities are depleted.

Ukraine's parliament on April 11 moved to boost the number of troops available for duty by approving a law on military mobilization. The law expands the powers of Ukrainian authorities to issue draft notices -- including via an electronic system -- that is expected to help limit evasion.

Speaking in parliament on April 11, General Yuriy Sodol, who commands the troops in the Kharkiv, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, put in stark contrast the battlefield disadvantage Ukraine faces.

"The enemy outnumbers us by 7-10 times, we lack manpower," he said.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-strikes-kharkiv- ukraine-war-infrastructure-vile/32899999.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Recent Attacks On Nuclear Plant In Ukraine Raise Safety Concern To New Level, IAEA Chief Says

By RFE/RL April 11, 2024

Attacks over the weekend on the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in Ukraine have raised the level of concern over the safety of the facility to an even higher level, the head of the UN's nuclear watchdog told his agency's board of governors on April 11 in Vienna.

The most recent attacks "have shifted us into an acutely consequential juncture in this war," Rafael Grossi said in a statement issued by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Grossi added that he wanted "to ensure these reckless attacks do not mark the beginning of a new and gravely dangerous front," according to the statement as prepared for delivery at the opening of an emergency board meeting called by Russia and Ukraine.

Grossi issued a stark warning on April 8, a day after the plant in southern Ukraine -- Europe's largest -- was struck by drones. He said an IAEA team of experts located at the plant "confirmed that at least three direct hits" against the plant's main reactor containment structures had taken place.

Grossi said on April 11 that those attacks "marked a major escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers in Ukraine, significantly increasing the risk of a nuclear accident."

The plant has been controlled by Russian forces since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Grossi also appealed to military decision makers to abstain from any action violating the IAEA's principles to prevent a nuclear accident and he urged the international community to work toward a de-escalation of what is "a very serious situation."

Detailing the three direct hits that occurred on April 7, Grossi said one of the strikes hit the reactor dome of Unit 6. The damage it caused had not compromised nuclear safety, he said. But strikes on the plant's primary containment structure represent "a step-change increase in risk to nuclear safety."

The other two attacks were in close proximity to the main reactor buildings and resulted in at least one casualty, he said.

A further drone attack and bursts of rifle fire were reported on April 9, Grossi added, saying this was "an ominous indication of an apparent readiness to continue these attacks, despite the grave dangers they pose to nuclear safety and security," and repeated his call for the strikes to end.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-zaporizhzhya-attacks-grossi- iaea/32901557.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Ukrainian Parliament Passes New Mobilization Law

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service April 11, 2024

KYIV -- Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, has passed a law on military mobilization that will boost the number of its troops, two lawmakers reported, as the country struggles with depleted forces in the face of the more than 2-year-old Russian invasion.

The law expands the powers of Ukrainian authorities to issue draft notices, including through an electronic system, a change that is expected to help limit evasion.

The measure was passed with 283 votes in favor in the 450-member parliament early on April 11, lawmakers Yaroslav Zheleznyak from the Voice faction and Oleksiy Honcharenko from the European Solidarity faction reported.

A provision on the demobilization of those currently serving in the armed forces was scrapped from the law -- a move likely to be met with anger by Ukrainian troops and their families.

Fedir Venislavskiy, a lawmaker from President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's faction in parliament, said the main goal of the draft law is to register all conscripts and update their data so that the state clearly understands who can be mobilized, who has the right to postpone entering the draft, and who can enter the reserves.

One of its provisions requires men between the ages of 18 and 60 to update their personal information within 60 days with the military or with the civil administrative services responsible for conscription.

Since a major Ukrainian counteroffensive last year failed to make significant gains, Russia has used its significant advantage in manpower and equipment to erode those gains in the east.

General Yuriy Sodol, who commands the troops in the Kharkiv, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, stressed the need for more troops, telling lawmakers that Russian forces outnumber Kyiv's troops up 10 times on the battlefield in the east.

"We are maintaining our defenses with our last strength," he said as lawmakers stood up and applauded more than a dozen commanders who attended the session.

"The enemy outnumbers us by seven to 10 times, we lack manpower," Sodol said.

Former army commander in chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy said in February that Ukraine needed up to 500,000 new recruits this year to strengthen forces, replace expected losses, and demobilize those who have served for years.

Zelenskiy had resisted the request amid concern over public backlash.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-military-mobilization- bill-passed/32900131.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's answer to a media question about the Swiss government's decision to host a high-level conference on Ukraine

11 April 2024 17:56

664-11-04-2024

Question: On April 10, the Swiss government announced its decision to hold a high-level Ukraine peace conference in June. Will Russia participate in it?

Maria Zakharova: We have repeatedly expressed our extremely negative attitude to this "conference." Russia will not take part in it, even if we receive an invitation, which we haven't so far.

Switzerland is trying to peddle the compromised Zelensky formula under the guise of good offices and keep the failed Copenhagen process going, in a new package this time.

Any events that ignore Russia's position and are based on the ultimatum-like Zelensky formula's provisions are detached from reality and have no future.

The intention voiced by the organisers of the "conference" to take common components out from other countries' initiatives is nothing but a trick. It is well known that the Zelensky formula does not imply compromises or alternative solutions and completely ignores the proposals put forward by China and Brazil, as well as African and Arab states.

We have no confidence in Switzerland, either. It stands on the positions of Ukraine, supports the Kiev regime, imposes anti-Russian sanctions, and adopts strategies that exclude Russia from the system of supposedly existing European security. By definition and given the circumstances, Switzerland cannot act as a neutral host, let alone a mediator.

The West needs the Global South countries to take part in the "conference" only to give weight to a certain "collective ultimatum" that they are going to present to Russia.

We hope our partners in Asia, Africa and Latin America will be vigilant and will not let themselves be drawn into yet another anti-Russian reckless scheme.



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Ukraine's Reconstruction: Minister for Europe speech at Delphi Economic Forum

Minister for Europe Nusrat Ghani's speech at the Delphi Economic Forum on Ukraine's reconstruction, 11 April 2024.

11 April 2024

Good afternoon - and thank you for inviting me to say a few words.

Over two years ago, when the first tanks thundered towards Kyiv, Putin would have felt invincible.

But events since have shown how foolish he was.

Foolish enough to underestimate Ukraine's bravery.

Foolish enough to think his military's incompetence would go unnoticed.

And foolish enough to doubt the West's resolve to stand so firmly behind Ukraine.

The twisted lies Putin spreads to justify the invasion and mask his failures cannot hide a simple truth.

He believes he can take territories and re-draw borders, when he wants, where he wants...

...and he believes he can get away with it every single time.

Well, not this time.

Ukraine must win. Why? Because our collective security is at stake.

A defeat will invite more aggression. A victory will deter it.

The question is not whether we have the ability to achieve this - Ukraine has shown it can defend itself. The question is whether we have the will to see it through.

By defending Ukraine, we defend the values in the UN charter we all subscribe to. The values which have allowed us to prosper.

Respect for sovereignty is not just about maintaining lines on a map. It is about having the freedom to choose how we want to live.

All countries have that right - and Ukraine is fighting to uphold that right for all of us.

The UK was privileged to play its part in welcoming Ukrainians forced from their homes. But they have a right to return and we collectively have an obligation to enable them to do so.

Putin wants them out because that is how he can destroy, displace and devalue Ukrainian identity and culture.

We cannot hand him what he craves.

We must also honour the legacy of Navalny and his unwavering commitment to Russian democracy. I applaud Yulia's courage and resilience.

Her foundation will continue Navalny's fight, and that remains the best tribute to his enduring vision.

So, how can we restore freedom, prosperity and democracy in Ukraine?

I would like to highlight the three key ways in which the UK is helping to rebuild its economy.

First, by committing financially. Over the last two years, we have provided nearly 6 billion dollars of non-military support.

We are boosting its fiscal firepower. Last month, we worked with the World Bank to speed up and increase the size of loans.

As a result, the UK and Japan are providing one and a half billion dollars to help with immediate pressures.

We and our G7 partners have also been clear - Russia must pay for the damage it has caused. We will pursue all routes through which Russian assets can be used to support Ukraine.

Second, by harnessing the power of the private sector. The World Bank judges recovery will require almost half a trillion US dollars.

Daunting as it sounds, it is achievable if we tap into the capital, creativity and expertise of businesses.

The Ukraine Recovery Conference in London last year mobilised international partners, including the private sector, raising a staggering 60 billion US dollars of support.

We of course have further to go - but it was a clear indication of what we can achieve together.

Last year, I also personally oversaw the creation of a war-risk insurance scheme to protect and encourage UK businesses supporting Ukraine.

Finally, we are helping by stimulating Ukraine's trading industry. Before the invasion, it was a leading exporter of food, grains, steel and much more.

There is no reason why that should not be the case once again.

So, the UK is undertaking a series of trade missions to strengthen long-term cooperation and galvanise investment into Ukraine.

Make no mistake. This is the defining struggle of our generation. The make-or-break moment is this year.

The costs of failing to support Ukraine now will be far greater than the costs of repelling Putin.

That is why we must devote our hard-worked resources and precious time to this collective endeavour.

There is so much to do and so little time to do it.

I'll just finish on what President Zelensky put so well:

When asked what will bring the end of the war, we used to say "peace".

Now, we say "victory".

Thank you.

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Russia must immediately cease its bombardment of Ukrainian energy infrastructure: UK statement to the OSCE

Acting Ambassador Deirdre Brown condemns Russia's aerial attacks across Ukraine which have impacted all major cities and resulted in the deaths of civilians.

11 April 2024

Thank you, Madam Chair. During the last Permanent Council, the United Kingdom condemned Russia's aerial attacks across Ukraine, and since then these attacks have continued to intensify, including last night.

Energy infrastructure has been targeted and extensively damaged, leaving millions of civilians without power and water. The widespread impact of these attacks could last for months. The UK calls on Russia to cease its bombardment of Ukrainian energy infrastructure.

As a direct result of these aerial strikes, dozens of civilians have been injured or killed, including children. There has been further damage to civilian infrastructure including residential buildings. Multiple attacks have impacted health and education facilities.

All major cities across Ukraine have been impacted by the recent attacks. Kharkiv has been badly damaged, where over the weekend at least nine high rise buildings were damaged, 10 civilians were killed and a further eight injured.

Two years since the appalling discoveries made in Bucha, it is clear that Russia continues to use terrible tactics. Many of us previously condemned the double-tap strike at Odesa on 15 March which killed at least 20 civilians and injured more than 70. The first Russian missile hit residential buildings, and when emergency teams rushed to the scene, another missile struck the same location causing further causalities. Russia repeated the same tactic on 3 April in Kharkiv when Russian drones hit high-rise apartment blocks and private homes. Rescue workers were among the seven killed as the site of the attack was brutally targeted in a repeat assault.

Russia also continues to endanger lives across the region through its illegal seizure of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Everything possible must be done to reduce the risk of a nuclear incident. Ultimately, Russia must return full control of the Plant to the rightful sovereign owner to ensure safe and secure operation.

The UK remains fully committed to supporting Ukraine so it can defend itself against Russia's aerial attacks, with A2.5bn earmarked for further military support throughout 2024. This includes a recently announced A325m of bilateral support to provide more than 10,000 advanced drones, and A245m to continue to provide much-needed artillery ammunition.

As part of the United Kingdom's contribution to the international Air Capability Coalition for Ukraine, which will see allies and partners working together to bolster Ukraine's air capabilities, 10 pilots received basic flying, ground school and language training in the UK. They will one day form the first line of defence in protecting Ukraine's skies from President Putin's forces. We are proud that the trainees join more than 60,000 Ukrainians who have received training in the UK since President Putin first ordered the invasion of Crimea in 2014.

Every day since Russia invaded Ukraine, we have seen the tragic consequences of Russian aggression, but every day we have also been reminded of the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people.

The only path to peace is if Russia ceases its illegal war, withdraws all its forces and military equipment from Ukraine, and respects the will of the Ukrainian people for a wholly independent and democratic Ukraine. Thank you.

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Former Royal Navy ships transferred to Ukraine's Navy arrive in Portsmouth for multi-national exercise

Detecting and disabling sea mines will be critical to ensuring the security of the Black Sea in the long-term

11 April 2024

Two Ukrainian minehunter ships, recently transferred from the Royal Navy to Ukraine's navy, have arrived in Portsmouth today ahead of a series of multi-national naval exercises.

The arrival of the ships, now named Cherkasy and Chernihiv, marks a significant step in the UK's work to support the transformation and modernisation of Ukraine's Navy.

Having sailed down from where they were previously based in Scotland, the two ships and their crew will start preparing for their first operational exercises since their transfer to the Ukrainian Navy was fully completed.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

The UK is leading the way in helping Ukraine to modernise its Navy. The transfer of these ships and the excellent training provided by the Royal Navy will have a real long-term impact on Ukraine's ability to defend its waters. We continue to support Ukraine as they deliver major blows to Putin's Black Sea Fleet. In doing so, they are securing vital corridors to export grain and other materials, supporting their economy in the face of Russia's barbaric bombardment.

The transfer of the vessels to Ukraine's Navy was announced to coincide with the launch of the Maritime Capability Coalition, which the UK jointly leads with Norway, to provide assistance to Ukraine's navy - including training, equipment, and infrastructure, to bolster security in the Black Sea region.

Ukraine has sunk or disabled around a third of Russia's Black Sea Fleet since the start of the conflict through a series of precision-guided missile strikes and innovative use of maritime one-way attack drones. With support from the UK, Ukraine's Black Sea activity has meant, despite ongoing Russian strikes against Odesa oblast, Ukraine has almost certainly exported more grain through its seaports in the first months of 2024 than at any time since the outbreak of the war.

Both ships will now be rebased in Portsmouth, where they will be prepared to take part in Exercise Sea Breeze 24, a joint countermeasure exercise between the Royal Navy, US Navy and Ukrainian Navy. This exercise will improve the ability of Ukraine's navy to operate alongside NATO nations, increase agility amongst NATO navies, and demonstrates the UK and allies' shared commitment to security and stability.

Transfer of the ships, previously named Shoreham and Grimsby, began last year - with both taking part in Exercise Joint Warrior 23 and Exercise Sea Breeze 23 in UK waters. Their transfer earlier this year was made possible by a buyer credit facility guarantee provided by the UK government's export credit agency, UK Export Finance.

The ships are currently not able to enter the Black Sea due to the terms of the Montreux Convention, which restricts passage of military vessels through the Bosporus Strait at times of war. However, they will form a critical capability for Ukraine in its future defence of its coastlines as the UK looks to support the longer-term capabilities of the Ukrainian Navy, while they look to protect commercial shipping by detecting and disabling sea mines.

The UK's dedication to supporting Ukraine has been unwavering since the illegal full-scale invasion in 2022. As one of the largest military donors to Ukraine, the UK has demonstrated its commitment through substantial military aid, committing more than A7 billion to supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine to date.

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Ukraine and Canada Held a Regular Meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children Involving 35 Countries Already

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 20:30

The second plenary session of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children was co-chaired by Ukraine and Canada. Specific projects were presented to engage coalition member countries in the work on the return and reintegration of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

Opening the event, Kati Csaba, Executive Director of the Ukraine Bureau at Global Affairs Canada, emphasized: "The scope of the coalition's activities is expanding, and the number of countries involved continues to grow. Today's meeting aims to provide our partners with clear and detailed information on Ukraine's efforts to return abducted children and how coalition members can support these efforts."

During the meeting, Ukraine presented specific projects and ways to engage countries in active work on the return of children illegally deported and forcibly displaced by Russia. The proposed initiatives cover the following areas: identifying the whereabouts of abducted Ukrainian children, developing mechanisms for their return, participating in diplomatic negotiations, supporting children after their return and ensuring their rehabilitation, bringing perpetrators to justice, and conducting joint information campaigns.

The Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, also emphasized the importance of joint meetings of the coalition members.

"Today, at the coalition meeting, projects were presented that will facilitate the return and reintegration of Ukrainian children. I am pleased to welcome the readiness of the coalition members to support the implementation of the projects proposed by Ukraine in the near future," he said.

Representative of the Commissioner for Children's Rights Iryna Suslova presented a project aimed at the safe return of children deported or forcibly displaced by Russia: "The most important task today is the physical return of Ukrainian children home. It is important to act quickly, because the identity of minors is being destroyed under the pressure of Russian propaganda."

Iryna Tuliakova, Head of the Coordination Center for the Development of Family Upbringing and Child Care, presented a project to reintegrate children, provide them with the necessary rehabilitation assistance, and place them in family-based forms of upbringing.

"Ukraine's strategic priority is to create conditions for all children to grow up in a family environment. To realize this goal, we need to support and enhance the capacity of families who take in children, including those who have been returned from deportation. It is also important to educate and prepare new families, improve their living conditions, and provide financial and psychosocial support," emphasized Iryna Suslova.

Yulia Usenko, Head of the Department for Protection of Children's Interests and Combating Domestic Violence of the Prosecutor General's Office, invited the coalition member states to cooperate with Ukraine to bring to justice the criminals who planned, organized and implemented the policy of deportation of Ukrainian children: "Ukraine seeks to adapt the best international practices in working with children, as well as to strengthen cooperation aimed at bringing perpetrators to justice for crimes of deportation and forced displacement. We also need support for systematic training of professionals who will investigate crimes against children. It is equally important to build capacity to collect evidence in the absence of access to the temporarily occupied territories, witnesses and victims, documents and other evidence."

Daria Herasymchuk, Advisor - Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights and Child Rehabilitation, placed emphasis on the project of information support for the topic of deportation of Ukrainian children to maintain global awareness of this tragedy.

"We must speak out loudly about the crime of deporting Ukrainian children and about all the efforts made by the international community and Ukraine to overcome this phenomenon. The Stolen Voices information campaign has already helped us draw the world's attention to the issue in the countries where we have previously conducted campaigns: Latvia, Germany, the United States, the Netherlands, etc. But together we can do much more," she is convinced.

Following the second plenary meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, dozens of countries expressed their willingness to actively participate in the implementation of projects presented by Ukraine that will facilitate the return and reintegration of Ukrainian children.

The International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children is a continuation of the Bring Kids Back UA plan initiated by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and a key element of point four of the Ukrainian Peace Formula, "Release of Prisoners and Deported Persons."

The Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak and Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs MAlanie Joly officially launched the coalition in February this year, presenting the Framework Document at the first plenary session of the coalition.

The total number of countries participating in the coalition has increased to 35 due to the accession of two new members - Liechtenstein and Slovenia. Ukraine is grateful to all partners for their active participation and calls on other states to join and facilitate the return of Ukrainian children.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy: It Is Critically Important That Each Partner Deliver on Its Promises Regarding the Supply of Weapons and Ammunition

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 20:17

This year, we need to focus all our joint potential on protecting both Ukraine and the independence of every nation that borders Russia. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a press conference following the Three Seas Summit.

The Head of State noted that he had told all the participants of the summit about Putin's plans for the frontline this year.

"It is critically important that each partner deliver on its promises regarding the supply of weapons and ammunition, as well as our agreements on co-production. Every day Russian missiles strike, and every day the number of promises increases. Every day, Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline endure the brutal pressure of Russian artillery and guided bombs. The reality must finally start to match the words," he emphasized.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that the number one priority is to bolster Ukraine's air defense.

"We urgently need to protect Kharkiv, Odesa, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia and all our other cities from Russian attacks. I am grateful to every leader who hears us and is ready to facilitate communication with other partners so that Ukraine finally receives air defense systems that can help us. The world has them and they must safeguard lives," the Head of State emphasized.

The President noted that today there are challenges due to the delay in U.S. assistance, increased mobilization in the Russian Federation, and the supply of Iranian "Shahed" drones and North Korean artillery shells and missiles to the aggressor.

He reminded that at the beginning of the war, Ukraine did not have modern Western weapons, there was a shortage of 155 mm caliber shells, and now our country has already established its own production.

"We didn't have long-range drones, and today our drones can fly over a thousand kilometers. We did not have modern electronic warfare systems, and today Ukraine produces hundreds of them. But this is still not enough, as Russia attacks absolutely everything. Therefore, we need help in all these areas," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

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Leaders of Ukraine and Hungary Discussed Preparations for the Global Peace Summit

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 19:27

As part of his participation in the 9th Summit of the Three Seas Initiative in Vilnius, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had his first meeting with the new President of Hungary TamAs Sulyok.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated TamAs Sulyok on his election and expressed hope for effective cooperation.

The Head of State thanked the President of Hungary for the unequivocal support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed his Hungarian counterpart about Ukraine's progress on the path to European integration and the preparation of the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland. He extended an invitation to Hungary to take part in it and also invited Hungary to join the G7 Vilnius Declaration of Support for Ukraine and start drafting a bilateral security agreement.

The leaders praised the dialogue between the governments of Ukraine and Hungary, in particular on the transit of goods across the common border.

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President of Ukraine: We Must Multiply Our Joint Efforts to Ensure Common Security

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 19:11

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the participants of the Three Seas Summit to step up their counteraction to Russia.

"We have to be honest: the alliance is being tested here - in defense against the existing manifestations of Russian terror. And to ensure that Russian missiles are not over Vilnius or Warsaw or ChiEinAu, they finally should not be over Odesa and Kharkiv," the Head of State noted in his speech in Vilnius.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked everyone who is in contact with Ukraine's partners and uses all possible methods and means: diplomacy, media, political work. He also emphasized that cooperation with the United States is of fundamental importance. The President of Ukraine called on the countries participating in the summit to create as many joint defense industries as possible and, at the same time, to make every effort to block the supply of components to Russia that it could use in its military production.

"Cooperation with Russia should be toxic for everyone," the Head of State concluded.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Ukraine Deserves an Invitation to Join NATO

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 19:05

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked every country that has signed a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine. They support us for the period before our accession to NATO.

"Ukraine believes it is historically correct that the Baltic Sea region has finally received a historic chance for reliable security after Finland and Sweden joined NATO. The Black Sea region needs the same security. As a democratic nation committed to our shared values, Ukraine deserves to be invited to join NATO," the Head of State said, addressing the Three Seas Summit in Vilnius.

According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, prior to the summit, Ukraine signed a bilateral security agreement with the ninth country, Latvia. The President called on other leaders of the Three Seas Initiative to sign such documents with our country as well.

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June Must Become Important for Ukraine - Volodymyr Zelensky During the Summit in Vilnius

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 18:29

The President of Ukraine called on the countries participating in the Three Seas Summit to foster unity in the European Union.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia should feel that there is more unity in Europe than contradictions.

"All the contradictions that exist in Europe must be resolved democratically and in negotiations between equals. And we must use the time we have to get closer to each other without losing a single day, let alone a month. Now in June it will be right to actually start negotiations on Ukraine's accession," he said.

The Head of State is hopeful that June will also be important in terms of the Peace Formula. He invited the countries participating in the summit to take part in the first inaugural Global Peace Summit in Switzerland and called for the involvement of world leaders.

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We Are in Dire Need of Increased Support From Our Partners, Primarily in Air Defense a Volodymyr Zelenskyy During a Meeting With the President of Poland

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 18:20

In Vilnius, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with the President of the Republic of Poland Andrzej Duda.

The head of the Ukrainian state thanked Poland for its consistent support of Ukraine and defense assistance. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted the country's participation in the Czech initiative to purchase ammunition for Ukraine.

He informed his colleague about the Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities, the liquidation of the consequences and the dire situation in Kharkiv.

"Ukraine is increasingly suffering from Russian missile terror. Every day our infrastructure gets destroyed and people die. Therefore, we are in dire need of increased support from partners, primarily in air defense," the President of Ukraine emphasized.

The leaders also discussed the preparation of the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland, the bilateral security agreement and cooperation regarding the future membership of Ukraine in the EU and NATO.

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This Year Should Be the Time to Take Steps to Make Our Victory Over Russian Terror Real - the President at the Three Seas Summit

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 18:10

Dear Gitanas, dear colleagues!

Thank you all for your kind words about Ukraine, and each of you who is helping us.

Last night, Russian terrorists struck again at Ukraine. It was a combined strike - missiles and Iranian attack drones with trajectories specifically designed to maximize damage to our critical infrastructure. Strikes ranging from Kharkiv and Kyiv to Odesa and Lviv - one of the Russian terrorists' targets was close to the Polish border. Our rescuers, power engineers, and repair teams have been working throughout the day to eliminate the consequences of the attack.

This is already a routine for our region - such strikes and our appeals to strengthen air defense. Missiles are striking every day, and every day we hear that Ukraine will receive new air defense systems. Every day Russian terrorists cut off the electricity to Kharkiv and our other cities, and every day we hear that new aid is coming soon.

The reality must finally match the words - and real losses of Russian terror must be ensured.

Dear colleagues!

In the way Ukrainians expect decisions to support our defense, Putin sees not only his opportunity to continue this war, he sees more - this is a temptation for him to expand his aggression and to prepare the potential for geographically wider strikes.

All of Russia's neighboring states and every nation whose lives may be within the range of Russian aircraft and missiles are in danger. Each of you can see how Russian propagandists are fueling hatred against your countries. In Russia, they have already reached the point where they are even accusing Kazakhstan of their own criminal misconduct, which led to the disaster with the dam breach and the flooding of a large area - they already consider Kazakhstan a potential enemy. Russian controlled hatred precedes Russian guided bombs, missiles and "Shaheds". Each of Russia's neighbors is a target, just like Ukraine.

We must multiply our joint efforts to ensure common security.

First, each of Russia's neighbors must do everything possible on their borders and in communication with their partners to block the supply of anything that can be used in military production to Putin. From chips to machine tools, from raw materials to technology. Cooperation with Russia should be toxic for everyone.

Secondly, advocating for assistance to Ukraine now means advocating for our own security for every country in our region. I thank all of you who are in contact with other partners, who are using all means of diplomacy, media, and political work to promote armed support for our soldiers. Working with the United States is of fundamental importance.

We have to be honest: the alliance is being tested here - in defense against the existing manifestations of Russian terror. And to ensure that Russian missiles are not over Vilnius or Warsaw or ChiEinAu, they finally should not be over Odesa and Kharkiv.

Thirdly, I thank all of you who have provided and are providing weapons to Ukraine. It really helps. Our joint defense projects with you also help, and we need to create as many defense industries as possible that will directly work for our common security. The production of shells, guns, vehicles, drones - everything that is necessary for defense - must grow significantly. We have created a significant potential for this in our country. But it requires finance. The frozen Russian assets must finally be used to protect us from Russian terror, in particular by supporting our defense, and rebuilding Ukraine.

Fourth: Our unity. Please strengthen the unity in the EU. Moscow should feel that there is more unity in Europe than any contradictions. Of course, every society may have doubts about the decisions made in Brussels. But such doubts should not become Moscow's weapon. Europe's treaties must be implemented by Europe. The ways of solidarity that strengthen Europe must continue to work. We must increase the integration of our systems, including transportation. All the contradictions that exist in Europe must be resolved democratically and in negotiations between equals. And we must use the time we have to get closer to each other without losing a single day, let alone a month. Now in June it will be right to actually start negotiations on Ukraine's accession. June should also be important for the Peace Formula. I invite all of you to participate in the first inaugural Global Peace Summit in Switzerland. And peace requires not only your participation in the Summit, but also your support in engaging world leaders. Please use all your connections and influence to help the global majority bring a just peace closer.

And fifth: NATO. The Alliance should not be afraid of its own existence and its own rules. Ukraine believes it is historically correct that the Baltic Sea region has finally received a historic chance for reliable security after Finland and Sweden joined NATO. The Black Sea region needs the same security. As a democratic nation committed to our shared values, Ukraine deserves to be invited to join NATO. We are grateful to every state for bilateral security agreements that support us in the time before we join NATO. Today we have signed the ninth such agreement with Latvia. And I urge all the leaders of the Three Seas Initiative to sign such agreements with Ukraine. And we have to work on strategic tasks. Putin wants to destroy Ukraine and the freedom of all nations in our region, and he sees no alternatives. Similarly, we should not look for alternatives to our security - Ukraine needs an invitation to join NATO. Only you can make it realistic this year. Without our Ukrainian strength, the strength of the whole Europe will not be complete, and together, gradually integrating, we can really protect each other from Russian revanchism.

Dear friends!

This year should be the time to take all the necessary steps to make our victory over Russian terror real. It is possible. But it is possible only if we are united - you and I and all our partners - and if the reality corresponds to our statements and agreements.

Thank you for your attention! Thank you for your support!

 NNN!

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Ukraine Expects the Participation of Japan in the Inaugural Peace Summit

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 16:34

The President's Office held a meeting with Nakagome Masashi, Director-General of the European Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

The Deputy Head of the Office of the President, Ihor Zhovkva, thanked the Japanese party for the constant support of Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression. Japan has been showing a clear position since the beginning of the full-scale invasion and is putting sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation, in particular, taking into account the work of the Yermak-McFaul International Group. Last year in August, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited Japan to join the preparation of the Global Peace Summit. It will take place in June this year in Switzerland.

"We look forward to the representation of Japan at the upcoming Peace Summit at the highest level. We are also counting on assistance in attracting to the Summit as many countries of the Global South as possible," noted Ihor Zhovkva.

The counterparts also discussed a draft bilateral security agreement in furtherance of the G7 Joint Declaration. They hope that the heads of state will be able to sign it at the nearest opportunity.

Ukraine and Japan agreed on a further schedule of work and coordinated cooperation in the framework of upcoming international events.

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Cooperation in the Defense Sector and Export Corridor: The President of Ukraine Met with the President of Romania

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 15:55

During his visit to Vilnius, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis.

The Head of State thanked Romania for its significant assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed the Romanian President about the Russian shelling of the Dniester hydroelectric power station and pointed to potential threats to Moldova.

The leaders discussed cooperation in the defense sector. The Ukrainian President stressed the need to strengthen Ukraine's air defense system to ensure a reliable sky shield.

The Head of State praised Romania's consistent support for Ukraine on its way to joining the EU and NATO.

The Presidents discussed the functioning of Ukraine's export corridor with Romania and Moldova and the development of infrastructure and logistic routes on their common border.

"We appreciate Romania's position on the transit of Ukrainian agricultural products. In the context of Russia's aggression, the Ukrainian-Romanian partnership makes a significant contribution to global food security," emphasized Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The parties also discussed enhancing trilateral cooperation between Ukraine, Romania, and Moldova.

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The Presidents of Ukraine and the Czech Republic Discussed Defense Assistance

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 15:47

As part of his visit to Vilnius to participate in the 9th Summit of the Three Seas Initiative, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel.

The President of Ukraine thanked the Head of the Czech Republic for his steadfast support of Ukraine in countering Russian aggression.

"Thank you for the initiatives of the Czech Republic in support of Ukraine. Thank you for the military assistance we received," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The leaders also discussed defense support for Ukraine and strengthening cooperation in the defense industry.

The President of Ukraine informed his Czech colleague in detail about the situation at the frontlines, the shelling of energy infrastructure by the aggressor state of the Russian Federation, and our country's need for energy equipment.

The counterparts also discussed preparations for the first Global Peace Summit and Ukraine's future membership in the EU and NATO.

Particular attention was paid to the conclusion of a bilateral security agreement between Ukraine and the Czech Republic.

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The President of Ukraine Met with the President of Lithuania in Vilnius

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 14:31

During his working visit to the Republic of Lithuania to participate in the 9th Summit of the Three Seas Initiative, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of Lithuania Gitanas NausAda.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Gitanas NausAda for inviting him to the Three Seas Summit and for his strong position.

"Thank you for your support from the very beginning of the full-scale invasion - for your political and military support. It is very important for us. I also thank the Lithuanian people for hosting our refugees," the President said.

The Head of State informed his Lithuanian counterpart on the current situation at the frontline and the consequences of Russian shelling for the critical infrastructure. Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke in detail about what Ukraine needs to protect our cities and help the military. The leaders discussed ways to increase production of needed weapons in both countries.

"Air defence is very important. This is a very big challenge for us. You know that this morning Kharkiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Kyiv region and other regions of Ukraine were attacked by missiles again. That is why air defence is the number one issue for us," the Head of State noted.

The Lithuanian President also stressed the need to join efforts of international partners to supply Ukraine with weapons and ammunition.

The parties exchanged views on the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula, in particular, they discussed the preparations for the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland.

During the meeting, the Presidents also discussed the support that Ukraine needs on its way to the EU and NATO.

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Agreement between Ukraine and the Republic of Latvia on long-term support and security commitments

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 14:30

Ukraine and the Republic of Latvia (hereinafter jointly referred to as "the Participants" or "Ukraine and Latvia"), condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia's unjustified, illegal, and unprovoked military aggression since 2014 and full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. The full-scale war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine is a brutal violation of international law and the United Nations Charter (hereinafter - UN Charter).

The Participants believe in and work towards Ukraine's clear victory over Russia, as well as Ukraine's full accession to the Euro-Atlantic community through membership of the European Union (hereinafter - the EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (hereinafter - NATO).

The Participants aim at halting Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the aggressor's armed forces and any other military groups from the entire territory of the Ukrainian state within its internationally recognized borders as of 1991, including the territorial sea, the full restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders, as well as a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

The Participants will make every effort in order to achieve this objective in compliance with the UN Charter and the provisions of international law, and taking into account the principles of Ukraine's Peace Formula.

The Participants support Ukraine's goal of Euro-Atlantic integration and appreciate that, despite the challenges posed by the war, Ukraine is steadfastly working towards this goal. Ukraine will continue to implement a comprehensive reform plan. Latvia will facilitate the accession of Ukraine to the EU and NATO by sharing its experience and supporting Ukraine's reform process.

The Participants being aware of the devastating consequences of Russia's aggression for Ukraine, such as civilian and critical infrastructure destroyed by shelling, environmental and ecological damage, an increasing socio-economic burden, mine-contaminated areas, and others, strive to jointly promote further bilateral and multilateral comprehensive support for Ukraine and its people to mitigate those consequences.

In view of the above, the Participants undertake to strengthen long-term security cooperation in the military and non-military fields as determined in this Agreement on Long-term Support and Security Commitments (hereinafter - the Agreement).

1. Scope of the Agreement

The present Agreement derives from the commitment by the Participants to further the goals of the Group of Seven (G7) Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine of 12 July 2023 (hereinafter - the G7 Joint Declaration), which are binding on its signatories.

Under the Agreement, the Participants undertake to strengthen and extend cooperation and partnership based on common interests in the safeguarding of international law and order, peace, fundamental human rights and freedoms, and statehood.

Latvia is committed to providing Ukraine with comprehensive and long-term military and non-military support, including in the areas of political, military, reconstruction, economic, financial, and humanitarian assistance.

The Participants will deepen their cooperation to help Ukraine win the war of aggression that Russia is waging as soon as possible, to prevent the significant escalation of the ongoing aggression and future attacks, as well as defend itself against future attacks. The Participants will support Ukraine's economic stability, reconstruction, resilience, and reform agenda, as well as facilitate Ukraine's EU accession and NATO membership process.

The Participants intend to use their best efforts in good faith to work together to achieve the objectives of this Agreement. Any budgetary commitments on the Latvian side will be secured only with explicit approval from the Government of the Republic of Latvia and, if necessary, of the Saeima (the Latvian Parliament).

Ukraine will receive multifaceted support from Latvia throughout the ten-year duration of this Agreement.

2. Areas of military support and security cooperation

The Participants are aware of the inalienable right of states to individual and collective self-defence, and they consider illegal any attempt to change borders by force. The Participants see Ukraine's security as an integral part of the Euro-Atlantic and global security.

Latvia confirms its intention to provide long-term military support to the Ukrainian security and defence forces based on the immediate and future needs expressed by Ukraine according to, but not limited to, its future force design and the capabilities of Latvia. The Participants will promote cooperation aimed at the development of modern, NATO interoperable, and sustainable Ukrainian security and defence forces to enhance Ukraine's defence and resilience capabilities, as well as capability to fully restore Ukraine's territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.

Latvia, in accordance with its national legislative and constitutional requirements, and within its capabilities, will provide Ukraine with timely security assistance, modern military equipment, and weapons in all areas, considering Ukrainian needs in the framework of future force design, as well as other comprehensive economical support.

Ukraine will use the military support provided by Latvia in compliance with the UN Charter, provisions of international law, and the obligations of the Participants under the existing bilateral agreements.

The Participants will seek to ensure that Ukraine's military capabilities are at such a level that, in the event of an external military aggression against Latvia, Ukraine is able to provide effective military support. The terms, format, and scope of such support will be determined by the Participants.

In order to ensure military support objectives of the Agreement, the Participants will hold an annual senior-level Strategic Security and Defence Policy Dialogue. The Participants will seek to develop mutually beneficial security and defence cooperation suitable for all situations, provided the capabilities of the Participants.

The framework for military support

Further support provided by Latvia will be driven by the needs expressed by Ukraine and will be ensured while assessing Latvia's capabilities and capacity, as well as taking into account compatibility with the military support provided to Ukraine until now.

Latvia has set the target for 2024, 2025 and 2026 of providing the necessary military support to Ukraine in the amount of 0.25% of the gross domestic product annually, including military training and supplies of equipment and weapons across land, air, sea, and cyber-electromagnetic domains, provided the capabilities and resources available. In 2024 Latvia will provide approximately 112 million EUR of military support to Ukraine. Latvia will continue to support Ukraine, maintaining the current dynamic level, for as long as it takes.

Latvia will continue its participation in the Ramstein Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) to provide military support to Ukraine in coordination with Allies, including potential future donations of ammunition. Latvia, together with the United Kingdom, has taken the lead in the Drone Coalition for Ukraine with the aim of providing Ukraine with a million drones in 2024 and beyond. Latvia will also continue to contribute to the Estonia-led Information Technology Coalition and the Lithuanian-led Mine Clearance Coalition by providing equipment and training as part of the UDCG.

The Participants see it as vital to seize the opportunities offered by NATO, including by using the NATO - Ukraine Council as a platform for consultation and political dialogue to jointly identify future action and expand NATO support to Ukraine through practical measures, as well as to strengthen the NATO - Ukraine political partnership.

Latvia is committed to a continued financial contribution to NATO's Comprehensive Assistance Package (CAP) for Ukraine, which was further developed at the Vilnius Summit into a multi-year instrument to strengthen the interoperability of Ukrainian security and defence forces with NATO and to rebuild Ukraine's defence sector. Total contributions to NATO CAP by Latvia amount to EUR 3.3 million, annual contributions to NATO CAP of EUR 2 million are planned for 2024 and 2025.

Latvia commits to supporting a joint decision by the NATO Allies on inviting Ukraine to join the Alliance when circumstances permit. Latvia emphasises Ukraine's rightful place within the Euro-Atlantic community, and works to support Ukraine in the process of becoming a full-fledged NATO member.

Latvia will continue to promote the provision of EU solidary military support to the Ukrainian security and defence forces.

Military training and joint exercises

Latvia will continue and, where necessary, expand its support for the strengthening of the capacity of Ukrainian security and defence forces personnel in particular, but not exclusively, within the framework of the EU Military Assistance Mission and bilaterally. Latvia seeks to provide individual and collective training to Ukrainian security and defence forces, including train-the-trainer programmes. The training will also promote increased interoperability with Euro-Atlantic partners and in compliance with national, EU and international legislation.

Upon request, Latvia would consider providing training sessions to law enforcement authorities, such as the National Guard of Ukraine, the National Police, and the State Border Guard Service, as well as providing material support to law enforcement authorities.

The Participants through the respective Ministries of Defence will pursue collaboration in the advancement of professional military education, encompassing future force design, integration of gender perspective and the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda in military operations and institutions, NATO concepts and operating procedures, and command and control.

Defence and security sector reforms

Latvia recognises the significant progress Ukraine has made in implementing reforms in the security and defence sector. Ukraine reiterates that it will continue to engage in comprehensive democratic reforms in the security and defence sector, in particular, in advancing defence reforms and modernisation, including by the strengthening of democratic civilian oversight of the security sector and improving efficiency and transparency across Ukraine's defence institutions and industry.

It is important that future reforms are implemented in line with Ukraine's Annual National Programme, which has been created based on recommendations made by NATO Allies.

Latvia will promote the approval and implementation of the EU's security commitments towards Ukraine, including with regard to the strengthening of the security and defence sector of Ukraine and the improvement of reforms required for that end.

Defence and security industry cooperation

The Participants recognise the importance of the cooperation of defence industries. Latvia will explore ways to encourage and facilitate engagement of its defence industry to contribute to the development of Ukraine's defence industrial base, including through investment incentives, closer partnerships, and collaboration between defence industries, including for mutual commercial benefit and coordination.

Latvia will work jointly with Ukraine to strengthen efforts to reduce the existing barriers to cooperation, and eliminate bottlenecks in the supply chain of defence materials, encourage its defence industry to invest, taking into account the general security situation and the legitimate interests of the industry, including by evaluating options for supporting the localisation of production in Ukraine, as well as by exploring opportunities for joint production.

Ukraine commits to strengthening its national defence industry and production capacity. Latvia will support the promotion of decisions that would ensure the strengthening of the EU defence industries and increasing production capacity in order to support Ukraine's defence industry with the priority military materials.

The Participants will jointly consider ways whereby Ukraine's defence sector can make an effective contribution to restoring its territorial integrity, acting as a key driver of economic recovery and contributing to an effective deterrence of further aggression, boosting Ukraine's production capacity, as well as improving the harmonisation of standards and interoperability with Euro-Atlantic partners.

Latvia will work with Ukraine to identify funding sources required to enable development of Ukraine's defence industrial base, which will include providing investment and financial assistance.

Latvia is committed to promoting decisions that would ensure the strengthening of EU defence industries and increasing production capacity in order to support Ukraine with the priority military materials.

Latvia will support, where possible, Ukraine's efforts to integrate its defence industry into NATO and the EU defence and security frameworks. In particular, Latvia will support Ukraine's defence industry strengthening ties with the European defence technological and industrial base, considering also the opportunities provided by the European Defence Industrial Strategy and European Defence Industry Programme.

The Participants will cooperate to prevent the diversion and the illegal circulation of military material provided to Ukraine. The Participants will cooperate to facilitate the protection of any transferred technologies and intellectual property rights.

The Drone Coalition for Ukraine

The Participants underline the increasing importance of the use of drones in strengthening Ukraine's capabilities and military success. The Participants undertake to establish long-term cooperation in this area by activating and attracting other international partners from the Ukrainian Defence Contact Group to the Drone Coalition for Ukraine established by the Participants.

Latvia commits itself to establishing a training centre and training grounds for unmanned aerial vehicles, providing financial and material contribution towards the goals set by the Coalition, as well as coordinating support among Ukraine's allies.

Treatment and rehabilitation of soldiers

Latvia will continue the rehabilitation and treatment of Ukrainian soldiers in medical and rehabilitation institutions in Latvia, as well as strengthening Ukraine's rehabilitation sector by implementing relevant cooperation projects.

Maritime security

The Participants will seek to coordinate their efforts on strengthening international cooperation in the domain of maritime security in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other international legal instruments. Ukraine and Latvia will work on options for the development of Ukraine's naval capabilities.

3. Areas of non-military support

Support for financial, economic, reconstruction and Ukraine's integration into the EU contributes to the resilience of society, national capacity and institutions, as well as to security as a whole.

Bilateral relations

The Participants will continue to develop close and friendly relations in all areas, based on the principles of shared values, interests and solidarity.

The Participants will carry out exchange of visits and strengthen bilateral consultation formats.

The Participants will continue to implement the commitments of the Ukrainian- Latvian Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Industrial, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which form the basis for the promotion of economic cooperation, as well as the development of business relations.

In order to strengthen and expand the existing economic cooperation, the Participants will aim to ensure their respective socio-economic prosperity, promote the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and provide a secure legal and institutional framework for essential private sector investments, economic prosperity and economic integration of Ukraine, as well as a favourable business environment for local and international investors in Ukraine.

Ukraine is committed to continued improvement of the efficiency of its justice system with a focus on effective, fair and transparent settlement of business disputes, as well as taking further steps towards the rule of law and enhancement of the business environment.

The Participants will continue to improve their bilateral legal framework, especially in view of the needs related to Ukraine's accession to the EU, reconstruction, and others.

Latvia will continue to provide the necessary support, including, if necessary, practical support to Ukrainian civilians who have arrived in the territory of Latvia. The Participants express their willingness to promote cooperation at the local government level across a wide range of issues.

Integration into the European Union and support for reforms

The Participants confirm the importance of EU enlargement for the strengthening of national security, democracy, reform, stability, growth, and resilience. Latvia supports a free, democratic and peaceful future for Ukraine. EU membership is the foundation of Ukraine's non-military security.

The Participants welcome the historic decision taken at the European Council on 14 December 2023 to open negotiations with Ukraine. Latvia will do whatever it takes to support Ukraine on its path towards the EU and in the implementation of EU accession procedures, including by sharing its experience of reforms and integration into the EU.

Latvia will promote the EU's unified approach vis-a-vis Ukraine, including through the Ukraine Facility, so that Ukraine could count on a predictable financial flow that is essential for the country's macro-financial stability, reconstruction, and integration into the EU. Latvia will also support the further granting of financial aid to Ukraine based on its needs.

The Participants confirm the importance of the Association Agreement between the EU and the European Atomic Energy Community, and their Member States, of the one part, and Ukraine, of the other part, for Ukraine's integration into the EU, with a view to ensuring political ties, cooperation in the areas of freedom, security and justice, and economic integration, as well as the establishment of conditions for enhanced economic and trade relations leading to Ukraine's gradual integration into the EU Internal Market.

Ukraine is committed to pursuing comprehensive and democratic reforms to ensure the resilience of the country, its society and infrastructure.

Development cooperation

Until Ukraine becomes a full-fledged member of the EU, it will remain a priority of Latvia's development cooperation policy. Latvia will continue to support development cooperation projects related to EU issues in the areas such as agriculture, SME development, good governance, the rule of law, technical support, management of EU financial resources, and strengthening of national Supreme Audit Institutions.

Training of young Ukrainian professionals in the areas of EU law and economy will continue in the higher education institutions in Latvia.

Latvia is committed to promoting projects for psychological and practical support to victims of war crimes, including the promotion of assistance to the victims of sexual violence - men, women and children, the promotion of recording evidence of war crimes, cooperation in the field of human rights, and the strengthening of Ukraine's rehabilitation system.

International contributions

Latvia will continue to contribute to the funds and programmes of international organisations and financial institutions in order to ensure the financing of Ukraine's budget and Ukraine's macro-financial stability, to strengthen Ukraine's monetary resilience, promote the implementation of reforms and the rule of law, support an active civil society. Latvia will continue, as far as possible, its contributions to the European Air Traffic Management Voluntary Solidarity Fund to cover the costs of maintenance and related support personnel of the Ukrainian Air Navigation Service Provider.

Energy

Latvia will continue its support for the strengthening of Ukraine's energy sector by promoting the organisation of training in the energy sector, the delivery of energy-related materials and technical equipment, the strengthening of the energy sector and the exchange of experience in energy policy making.

Digital cooperation

The Participants will jointly contribute to the implementation of the 18 October 2023 Memorandum on Cooperation in the field of digitalisation between the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia in order to implement the sharing of experience in the fields of digitalisation, digitalisation of services and connectivity of the public sector, electronic communications and the radio frequency spectrum, the development of broadband internet access infrastructure and innovation.

Agriculture and forestry

The Participants will develop cooperation, direct contacts and sharing of experience in the field of agriculture (including fisheries), in particular, on Ukraine's path to the EU, by implementing the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine and the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Latvia of 27 October 2015.

The Participants will develop a sustainable partnership in the field of forestry, including by implementing commitments under the Ukrainian-Latvian Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation of 28 September 2023 between the Ministry of Agriculture, and the State Specialised Forest Enterprise "Ukrainian Forests" and the joint stock company "Latvian State Forests", including aimed at the restoration and mine clearance of Ukrainian forests affected by hostilities.

Humanitarian demining

Latvia will, as far as possible, contribute to the implementation of humanitarian demining measures in order to increase the areas of Ukrainian agricultural land to be cultivated safely, including by promoting the implementation of humanitarian demining objectives of international organisations and non-governmental organisations.

Countering chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) risks

The Participants intend to further expand their existing bilateral cooperation to strengthen Ukraine's resilience against nuclear, biological and chemical weapons-related risks. Latvia intends to explore avenues of support to Ukraine in developing its civil protection capabilities and resilience against CBRN-related risks.

Cyber security

Latvia is committed to supporting Ukraine in the implementation of the EU acquis on cyber security in order to prevent, detect, deter and counter Russian and any other cyber aggression, cyber espionage and hybrid warfare as well as to identify and deter the irresponsible and malicious using of cyber capabilities by any state and non-state actors against the Participants. This will be achieved through enhanced cyber resilience, critical and digital infrastructure protection, exchange of information and experience and cooperation in the development of cyber security and cyber defence capabilities, as well providing technical assistance to Ukraine.

Hybrid threats and countering propaganda

The Participants recognize that Russia continues to manipulate information in support of its war against Ukraine. Latvia will continue its support for strengthening of the resilience of the Ukrainian public administration and society to hybrid threats, as well as improving Ukraine's capabilities to counter Russian and any other information manipulation, malign propaganda, including by supporting resilience to disinformation campaigns affecting national security through the creation of media literacy and a pluralistic, independent media environment. The Participants will promote the strengthening of Ukraine's capabilities for combating disinformation and promoting strategic communication, conducting joint actions, exchanging information and best practices, promoting educational and training programs for experts, including by implementing cooperation at the NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence based in Latvia.

Critical infrastructure protection

Latvia, within its capabilities, will contribute to the development of Ukraine's critical infrastructure protection capabilities, by working with Ukrainian experts on improvements of regulatory frameworks and also by military means, prioritising, but not limited to, modern air defence systems and electronic warfare capabilities.

The Participants will explore launching joint educational and training programs for critical infrastructure protection specialists.

Security and intelligence cooperation

The Participants will deepen their cooperation in the fields of intelligence and security in accordance with the framework based on bilateral agreements, without prejudice to their national interests and in compliance with the legislation of each Participant in order to prevent, detect, deter, and counter Russian or other hostile state and non-state actors and any other subversive activities to secure Ukraine and Latvia from such malign actions. This will be achieved through, but not limited to, intelligence and experience sharing, as well as cooperation between intelligence and security agencies of the Participants, including pursuing joint initiatives, trainings and providing technical assistance.

Cooperation in the sphere of combating serious and organised crime

The Participants will cooperate under existing international instruments in criminal matters through information, analysis and best-practices sharing, identification, tracing, seizure and confiscation of illegally acquired assets that may be seized in respective criminal proceedings, creation of joint working groups, and facilitation of training in order to combat serious and organised crime (SOC), illicit finance, aimed at undermining Ukraine's or Latvia's sovereignty, territorial integrity and internal stability.

The Participants will take actions to counteract the activities of SOC, in particular individuals and groups that are trying to infiltrate across Ukrainian society and are actively used as a tool of hybrid warfare to counteract the process of recovery and reconstruction in Ukraine.

Sanctions

The Participants recognise the value of sanctions in restricting Russia's and other aggressor-states' access to the finance, goods, technology and services it is utilising in its aggression, in bearing down on Russia's revenue streams, and to deter future attacks. The Participants will continue to work to ensure that the costs to Russia of its aggression continue to rise, including through sanctions and export controls.

The Participants underline the usefulness of the EU and national sanctions and the need to effectively limit the aggressor's ability to carry out hostilities and sustain the functioning of its military industry. The Participants will continue to strengthen the sanctions introduced against the aggressor, contribute and take determined action to the elimination of attempts of sanctions circumvention, as well as to reinforce its own domestic resilience against Russia-linked illicit finance and elites.

While Russia's aggression towards Ukraine continues, Latvia will remain committed to pursuing robust EU sanctions against relevant sectors of the Russian economy and those in third countries who are supporting or profiting from the war, or assisting in sanctions circumvention.

The Participants will provide each other with up-to-date appropriate information on the grounds for sanctions, in compliance with relevant obligations and national laws.

Reconstruction

The Participants underline that the core mission of Ukraine's reconstruction is to promote the future resilience of the Ukrainian state. The Participants will work together to support Ukraine through the restoration of civilian and critical public and private infrastructure and properties destroyed during the war thereby contributing to the creation of a more modern and developed Ukrainian state and society.

Latvia commits to engaging in the long-term reconstruction of Ukraine by concentrating its activities and investment as a matter of priority in Ukraine's Chernihiv region and the city of Chernihiv. Between 2024 and 2026, Latvia earmarks EUR 15 million to implement reconstruction projects focusing on the restoration of social infrastructure facilities, psychological support for women and the transfer of expertise, especially on issues related to EU integration.

Facilitating a successful implementation of Latvia's development cooperation programmes and reconstruction projects, the Participants will execute the agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Latvia on Technical and Financial Cooperation concluded in Riga on 11 January 2024.

The Participants will continue to promote the Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform initiated by the G7, as well as other coordination mechanisms, thereby promoting joint international efforts towards rebuilding Ukraine and achieving progress in Ukraine's reforms.

Culture

Recognizing the cross-cutting role of culture in addressing the diverse challenges of recovery and reconstruction, Latvia will continue to support capacity building in the cultural sector of Ukraine, preservation and protection of its cultural heritage, the Ukrainian artists residing in Latvia, as well as sustainable reconstruction of Ukraine in accordance with the principles of the New European Bauhaus.

Ensuring Russia's accountability

The Participants reaffirm their commitment to holding Russia accountable for causing losses or damage to individuals and entities, as well as to the state of Ukraine, as a result of its internationally wrongful acts in Ukraine or against Ukraine, including its aggression in violation of the UN Charter.

The Participants reaffirm that there must be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities and that Russia must bear the legal responsibility, including by making reparation for any damage, loss or injury caused by such acts, which will also help deter future attacks and support Ukraine's recovery.

Being aware that one of the preconditions for a just and lasting peace is a comprehensive accountability and that the crime of aggression is the supreme international crime and the origin of all the other international crimes committed in or against Ukraine, the Participants will continue to work together with the view to the establishment of a special tribunal for prosecuting the crime of aggression against Ukraine, which would enjoy broad international support and legitimacy and be able to ensure the accountability of Russia's senior leadership. The Participants will continue their engagement in the "Core Group on options for the establishment of a tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine".

The Participants underline their firm commitment to bringing to justice those responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and other grave crimes committed in connection with Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Ukraine and Latvia welcome the arrest warrants of the International Criminal Court and see this as the beginning of the process of securing accountability and of holding Russia's military and political leaders to account for the crimes and atrocities that they are ordering, enabling and/or committing in or against Ukraine.

Latvia will continue to support strengthening Ukraine's role in the matters of international law, including by providing legal support to Ukraine - strengthening the international sanctions system, supporting the work of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, contributing to the work of the International Criminal Court in order to investigate and prosecute Russian political and military officials for the most serious international crimes in Ukraine.

Compensation for damage, loss or injury caused by Russian aggression

The Participants will promote a solution to the establishment of a compensation mechanism for damage inflicted on Ukraine.

The Participants underline that Russia must be held financially accountable for the damage inflicted on individuals and entities, as well as on the state of Ukraine. Latvia commends Ukraine's efforts to provide a comprehensive redress to all victims in Ukraine who have suffered from Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. The Participants will work to achieve that Russia's state assets, including in Latvia's jurisdiction, remain frozen and immobilised until Russia has paid for any damage, loss or injury caused to individuals and entities, as well as on the state of Ukraine.

The Participants welcome the EU's decision to direct in support of Ukraine the extraordinary revenues generated by the Central Securities Depositories holding assets and reserves of the Central Bank of Russia.

As a priority, the Participants will continue to work together, along with G7 states and others, towards the establishment of a compensation mechanism to provide compensation for damage, loss or injury caused by Russia's aggression, as envisaged by the Statute of the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine adopted by the Resolution of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe CM/Res(2023)3. In this regard, the Participants will explore appropriate options for the financing of a compensation mechanism to provide prompt and adequate compensation to victims of aggression.

The Participants will promote efforts on prosecuting perpetrators of human rights violations and war crimes against Ukrainian children. Latvia praises Ukraine's determination to facilitate the return of Ukrainian children illegally deported or forcibly displaced by Russia from Ukraine's temporary occupied territories. Latvia is committed to continuing its participation in the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children led by Ukraine and Canada, which was launched on 2 February 2024, and contributing to the achievement of the objectives set out in this Coalition's Framework Document.







Mutual support in international organisations

In international organisations, the Participants will consistently advocate strengthening of the rules-based international order and adherence to the fundamental principles enshrined in the UN Charter. The Participants understand the role of the UN in achieving international unity and maintaining a global order based on international law. The Participants will work in the UN and other international organisations to consolidate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as to hold Russia accountable for international crimes committed in Ukraine.

The Participants will continue their close cooperation and mutual support within international organisations. Ukraine will support Latvia's efforts to secure a non-permanent member's seat on the UN Security Council for the term of 2026 - 2027.

A just peace and non-recurrence of the Russian aggression

The Participants recognise that the security of Ukraine and Europe's future depends on a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in Ukraine, which ensures Ukraine its rights within the meaning of the UN Charter and international law. The Participants will promote the widest possible support from global partners for a just peace in Ukraine. To this end, the Participants undertake to promote the implementation of the principles of Ukraine's Peace Formula.

4. Cooperation in the event of a future Russian armed attack

In the event of future Russian armed attack against Ukraine, at the request of either Participant, the Participants will consult bilaterally or through other mutually acceptable channels within 24 hours to determine appropriate further measures.

In the case of Russia's attack, as Ukraine exercises its right to self-defence enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter, Latvia, acting in accordance with the Satversme (Constitution) of the Republic of Latvia and other national laws and regulations, as well as in compliance with its international commitments, including the commitments arising from EU membership, based on the needs expressed by Ukraine and the capabilities of Latvia, will provide Ukraine with swift and sustained security assistance, modern military equipment as necessary, and economic assistance; impose economic and other costs on Russia.

In order to ensure the widest and most effective collective response to any future armed attack, Ukraine and Latvia may amend these provisions in accordance with Article 6 of the Agreement in order to align with any mechanism that Ukraine may subsequently agree with its other international partners, including the participants in the G7 Joint Declaration of 12 July 2023.

5. Executive and technical arrangements

The Participants will implement this Agreement in accordance with their international and national obligations, including commitments arising from Latvia's membership of the EU.

The Participants will, if necessary, designate authorised bodies for the development and implementation of bilateral agreements in accordance with the areas of cooperation specified in this Agreement.

The Participants will inform each other through diplomatic channels of the competent authorities responsible for implementing the Agreement.

The authorised bodies will individually promote the conduct of consultations in order to discuss, make the necessary decisions and take the required actions within the framework of this Agreement.

The authorised bodies of the Participants can conclude technical agreements on specific areas of cooperation within the framework of the implementation of this Agreement.

6. Final provisions

The Agreement comes into effect on the day of its signature.

The Agreement is valid for 10 (ten) years. The Participants can jointly agree on its extension through a written notice no later than 6 (six) months prior to the expiry of the term of the Agreement.

At the same time, in view of the Participants' commitments under the G7 Joint Declaration of 12 July 2023, the Agreement does not supersede the integration of Ukraine with the Euro-Atlantic community and its path to future membership in the EU and NATO.

In the event that Ukraine becomes a member of NATO before the end of the Agreement, the Participants will decide on its future status.

This Agreement may be amended and supplemented, including by adding annexes thereto, by mutual agreement of the Participants, which shall be made in writing.

Any disputes between the Participants arising out of the interpretation and/or implementation of the Agreement will be settled through negotiation or consultation between the Participants.

The Agreement may be terminated by either Participant by giving a written notice of its intention to terminate the Agreement to the other Participant at least 6 (six) months in advance.

The termination will not affect the implementation of ongoing activities or projects, which have been decided prior to the date of its termination unless the Participants decide otherwise.

Signed in duplicate in Vilnius on 11 April 2024, in English, Ukrainian, and Latvian languages, all texts being equally authentic. In the event of divergence of interpretation, the English text shall prevail.



For Ukraine For the Republic of Latvia

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy President Edgars Rinkevics

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Ukraine and Latvia Signed a Security Agreement

President of Ukraine

11 April 2024 - 13:56

In Vilnius, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the President of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics have signed an Agreement on cooperation in the field of security and long-term support.

Latvia undertakes to help Ukraine in its defence against Russian aggression as much as necessary. This year, the country will provide Ukraine with military support of about 112 million euros. In addition to that, Latvia will also provide defence aid equal to 0.25% of the country's GDP each year.

The document confirms the readiness of the Republic of Latvia to help with recovery and reconstruction, protection of critical infrastructure, demining, unmanned technologies and cyber security.

The security treaty also clearly enshrines Latvia's support for Ukraine's future membership in the EU and NATO.

The document is valid for ten years and provides for the possibility of extending its validity by mutual agreement of the parties.

Ukraine has already concluded nine bilateral security treaties: with Great Britain, Germany, France, Denmark, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Finland, and Latvia. This document is signed to implement the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine dated July 12, 2023. In total, 32 states joined it.

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Russian attacks 'a daily destructive pattern' in Ukraine, Security Council hears

11 April 2024 - Russian attacks on cities and towns across Ukraine, including intense and systematic targeting of the energy infrastructure, "have become a daily destructive pattern" in recent weeks, a senior UN official told the Security Council on Thursday.

Miroslav Jenca, an Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav in the UN Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, warned that the escalation is a direct threat to international security.

Affected regions include Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, Kharkiv, Odesa, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, and Donetsk.

Deadly trend

"We are appalled by the increase in civilian casualties as a result of these relentless attacks," Mr. Jenca said.

At least 126 civilians were killed and 478 injured in March - a 20 per cent increase over the previous month, according to the UN human rights office, OHCHR. At least 57 children were killed or injured in March alone, double the number from February.

The deadly trend has continued this month, with daily drone, missile, rocket and artillery attacks reported across the country. The most recent - carried out overnight and into Thursday morning - targeted energy facilities, with some reportedly resulting in casualties, including fatalities.

"We are also witnessing hostilities spreading across Ukraine's borders, with regular cross-border strikes into the Russian Federation," he added.

Nuclear fears

Critical civilian infrastructure has been heavily affected by the escalation in attacks, he continued.

Since March, more than two dozen energy facilities have been destroyed or damaged, including the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant, disrupting electricity and water supply for millions.

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe's largest and under Russian occupation since the early days of the war, was directly targeted in military action on Sunday - the first time since November 2022. Three people were reportedly injured, and subsequent drone attacks were reported on Monday and Tuesday.

'A disturbing reminder'

The incident was "a disturbing reminder of the serious risks posed by this war", he said, joining the call by the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, for "the immediate cessation of such inexcusable attacks to avoid a major nuclear accident."

Mr. Jenca welcomed the renewal of the mandates of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry for the country.

Stressing the importance of their work to efforts towards accountability, he said the UN continues to urge Russia to fully cooperate and grant both OHCHR and independent monitors access to areas of Ukraine that it occupies.

A wider threat

Concluding his remarks, Mr. Jenca underlined the need for peace as "the current trajectory of escalation of this war is a direct threat to regional stability and international security. Most of all, it is an existential threat to the people of Ukraine."

He reiterated the UN General Assembly's call supporting de-escalation and a peaceful resolution of the conflict, as outlined in its resolution adopted last February.

Situation will worsen

OHCHR has verified that more than 10,810 civilians have been killed, and more than 20,550 injured, since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, though the actual numbers are likely to be higher.

Continuing escalation of the hostilities will only worsen the already dire situation for millions in the country, said Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy with the UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA.

More than 14.6 million people, roughly 40 per cent of the population, require some form of humanitarian assistance. Most, 56 per cent, are women and girls.

The wave of attacks has also impacted humanitarians as the already challenging operational environment is further affected by more frequent and bigger aerial strikes.

'Troubling pattern'

Ms. Wosornu said recent weeks have also revealed "a particularly troubling pattern in the sequencing of attacks."

As first responders or emergency services rush to the scene of attacks, a second wave of strikes target the same location, killing them and the wounded.

"Attacks directed against the wounded and those helping them are prohibited by international humanitarian law. They are cruel, unconscionable, and must stop," she said.

Global food security

Meanwhile, continuing attacks on the port city of Odesa remain a concern, given their impact on global food security.

Reiterating that Ukraine's Black Sea ports are an essential component of the global supply chains for grain and other key agricultural commodities, she warned that attacks could undo progress made in stabilizing grain markets and driving down prices.

"With staggering levels of food insecurity persisting in parts of the world, safe navigation in the Black Sea and the protection and safe operation of ports and related civilian infrastructure must be assured," she said.

Ms. Wosornu upheld humanitarians' commitment to support the people of Ukraine but stressed the need for more funding. A $541 million plan for the country this year has so far received just $3.1 billion.

Revenge strikes: Russia

The "mass strikes" on Ukraine's energy facilities in Ukraine were "a response to the Kyiv regime's attempts to deal a blow to Russia's oil and gas facilities," Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzia told the Council.

"We have met our goals," he continued, noting that "reserves can no longer be sent to where they need to go" and energy supply has been disrupted.

He said that as in all previous cases, Russia did not threaten the civilian population, "despite assertion to the contrary by the Zelenskyy regime."

"What is getting in the way of western propaganda mongers are the views of ordinary Ukrainians, who are on social media calling on fellow Ukrainians not to fear Russian high-precision strikes but rather to fear Ukrainian air defences, which have been deployed in residential areas in violation of international humanitarian law," he added.

Infrastructure deliberately attacked: Ukraine

Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said Russia has fired nearly 1,000 missiles, roughly 2,800 Shahed drones, and almost 7,000 guided aerial bombs on Ukrainian cities and villages since the beginning of the year.

Their total explosive power exceeded nine kilotonnes and only three per cent hit military targets, while 97 per cent struck civilian infrastructure.

"Russia deliberately targeted the critical energy infrastructure, as we heard today, in particular power generation. Following the March attacks, 80 per cent of thermal power generation was destroyed," he reported.

Hydropower plants also sustained heavy damage, he added, noting that Russia had particularly targeted the Dniester and Kaniv plants "indicating its intention to replicate the catastrophe" caused last June, with the destruction of the Khakova Dam.

"It should be a common task of the international community, not only Ukraine, to ensure that such large-scale environmental disasters no longer occur in Europe," he said.

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'No Region of Ukraine Spared' by Moscow's War on Ukraine, Senior Official Tells Security Council, Reporting of Widespread Destruction, Civilian Deaths

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9600th Meeting* (AM)

SC/15657

11 April 2024

Alarmed by the Russian Federation's intensified attacks across Ukraine, including on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on 7 April and Kyiv's largest power plant today, speakers at a Security Council meeting once again voiced concern about the rising death toll and deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country and demanded Moscow to cease its strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure, as UN senior officials urged respect for international humanitarian law and an immediate end to the war.

"Since our last briefing to this Council almost a month ago, Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and towns have become a daily destructive pattern," highlighted Miroslav Jenca, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and the Americas. Such attacks include intense and systematic targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure across the country, he added.

"We are appalled by the increase in civilian casualties as a result of these relentless attacks," he said, reporting that, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), at least 126 civilians were killed and 478 injured in March. At least 57 children were killed or injured in March alone, doubling the number from February.

Noting additional countrywide attacks overnight and this morning targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, he reported that since February 2022, OHCHR has recorded 10,810 civilians killed, including 600 children, and 20,556 civilians injured of which 1,357 were children. "This is unacceptable," he stressed, emphasizing that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international law and must cease immediately.

Since March, the large-scale coordinated attacks on critical infrastructure destroyed or damaged more than two dozen energy facilities throughout the country, including the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant. These attacks have disrupted access to electricity for millions of Ukrainians in large cities and in rural areas, as well as access to water supply in some locations.

On 7 April, Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant  Europe's largest and currently under the military occupation of the Russian Federation  was directly targeted in military action for the first time since November 2022. Echoing the call of the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), he said such inexcusable attacks must cease immediately to avoid a major nuclear accident, warning that "The consequences of a nuclear accident  whether intentional or not  could be catastrophic to us all."

He also urged the Russian Federation to fully cooperate and grant access to OHCHR and independent monitors to areas of Ukraine it occupies. Stressing the need for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in Ukraine, he affirmed the UN's readiness to support all efforts to that end.

"Ukraine is currently enduring some of the worst attacks since the start of this war," underscored Edem Wosornu, Director, Operations and Advocacy, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. "No region of Ukraine has been spared by this war," she added, noting that, in Kharkiv, Kherson, Kyiv, Lviv, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Dnipro, "wave after massive wave of attacks continue to kill and injure civilians and cause widespread damage and destruction to critical civilian infrastructure".

In addition to the thousands killed and injured, 10 million people across the country have now lost their homes and have been forced to flee since the escalation of this war. She detailed the disproportionate impact of the war on women and children, as well as its impact on essential services and aid operations. Voicing deep concern by the lack of humanitarian access to the parts of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia regions occupied by the Russian Federation, she stressed that humanitarians must be granted access to those areas as a matter of priority.

More than 14.6 million people, which equal 40 per cent of Ukraine's population  require some form of humanitarian assistance, she emphasized, calling on the humanitarian community's continued commitment to support the people of Ukraine. Urging the Council not to allow this war to grind on unchallenged and unresolved, she said: "Together you must do everything within your power to ensure respect for the rules of war, pursue peace and bring the suffering of the Ukrainian people to an end."

In the ensuing discussion, delegates echoed UN officials and urged a peaceful resolution to the conflict and respect for the rules of war, while others once again called squarely on the Russian Federation to stop its aggression and immediately and unconditionally withdraw from the internationally recognized territory of Ukraine. They also called for the full, safe, rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian personnel and relief to civilians in need.

"There are no winners in conflicts or wars," said China's representative. "Dialogue and negotiation represent the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis," he added, calling once again upon the concerned parties to engage in direct dialogue and negotiation.

Algeria's representative called for the intensification of international diplomatic efforts aimed at finding a solution to the crisis based on the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the legitimate security concerns of all parties. Ecuador's representative stressed adherence to the principles of international humanitarian law, particularly those demanding that all parties to the conflict act with distinction, proportionality and proportion  a point also made by the Mozambique's representative.

The representative of the Russian Federation said that the only reason for convening today's meeting is for the Kyiv regime's Western sponsors to keep the topic of Ukraine afloat with the requisite optics. During the special meeting on 15 April, Moscow will address shelling and drone attacks on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which resumed a few days ago, he added, voicing hope that a fair assessment of what is happening will also be given by IAEA leadership.

Noting that the Russian armies are advancing across all fronts, he said: "This trend won't be reversed by a new Western aid package." Very soon, the only topic at any international meeting on Ukraine will be the unconditional surrender of the Kyiv regime.

The representative of France drew attention to two French aid workers who were killed in Ukraine by a Russian Federation attack. Deliberate strikes on civilians and civilian objects that are not participating in hostilities constitute war crimes and the perpetrators of these crimes should not go unpunished, he stressed. Malta's representative voiced full support for victims' rights to justice and reparation, and noted the important work undertaken by the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine as an important first step.

Sierra Leone's representative was among speakers who voiced concern about "double-tap" tactics in war, whereby initial attacks are followed by a second strike, killing first responders who already arrived at the site to save civilian lives. Slovenia's representative pointed out that this worrisome pattern is also seen in Gaza.

Highlighting Ukraine's resilience, the representative of the United States said Ukraine continues its efforts to feed the world's most vulnerable, with Ukrainian grain delivered via the World Food Programme (WFP) to places such as Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen, Nigeria, Sudan and Kenya, and destined for Gaza.

Guyana's representative drew attention to the latest report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, which documents cases of torture, rape, and other sexual violence, and transfers of children. She called for an immediate end to these illegal actions and urged the international community to scale up humanitarian support to Ukraine.

The United Kingdom's representative said her county has committed over 350 million in humanitarian aid since February 2022. Japan's representative said her country has announced a $14.6 million contribution to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for their activities in Ukraine.

Several speakers, including Switzerland's representative, echoed the call of Denise Brown, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, who said: "The war in Ukraine should not be normalized."

The representative of the Republic of Korea said Pyongyang's supply of ammunitions and ballistic missiles to the Russian Federation constitutes a clear violation of multiple Security Council resolutions. Moscow vetoed the resolution to renew the mandate of Panel of Experts monitoring UN sanctions against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to prevent the Panel from investigating reports of these arms dealings, he added.

Condemning Iran, Belarus and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea for providing weapons and ammunition to Moscow were the representatives of the European Union, in its capacity as observer; the representative of Lithuania, who also spoke for Estonia and Latvia; and the representative of Denmark, who spoke also for Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Poland's delegate called once again for a UN investigation on the weapons transfers and a report to the UN Security Council.

Pointing to Moscow's "annihilation strategy", Ukraine's representative said the Russian Federation has fired nearly 1,000 missiles, about 2,800 "Shahed" drones and almost 7,000 guided aerial bombs on Ukrainian cities and villages since the beginning of 2024. Only 3 per cent of Russian missiles, drones and guided bombs hit military targets, while 97 per cent hit civilian infrastructure.

Detailing Moscow's ongoing attacks across Ukraine and its impact on civilians, he said: "It is practically impossible to make the final update of my statement as Russian shelling continues even now, during the Council's meeting." He called for the international community's solidarity with Ukraine, zero-tolerance towards Russian crimes, and a vision of peace, based on the Charter of the United Nations, and invited all responsible nations to participate in the first High-level Summit on Peace for Ukraine to be hosted by Switzerland in June.

__________

* The 9599th Meeting was closed.

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Zelenskyy calls for action, not 'lengthy discussions' on Ukraine military aid after widespread Russian attack

By VOA News April 11, 2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Thursday for swift action to provide his country with military aid, especially air defense systems, after a night of Russian aerial attacks that the Ukrainian military said included 42 missiles and 40 drones.

"If Russian missiles and 'Shahed' drones continue to strike not only Ukraine but also the resolve of our allies, this will amount to a global license for terror," Zelenskyy said on social media. "We need air defense systems and other defense assistance, not just turning a blind eye and having lengthy discussions."

Zelenskyy said the latest attacks targeted the Kharkiv, Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv and Odesa regions.

"Russian terrorists have once again targeted critical infrastructure," Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine's air force said the country's air defenses shot down 39 of the 40 drones and destroyed 18 of the 42 missiles.

Ukrainian electrical grid operator Ukrenergo said Russian strikes damaged its facilities in five regions.

Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor in Kharkiv, said 10 missiles hit the city of Kharkiv, with Russian attacks targeting energy infrastructure knocking out power to more than 200,000 people.

Maksym Kozytskyi, the regional governor in Lviv, reported fires at a gas facility and an electricity substation as a result of the attacks.

The governor of Odesa, Oleh Kiper, also reported a fire at an energy facility from debris from downed drones.

Russia's defense ministry Thursday reported thwarting a Ukrainian attack with 12 drones targeting multiple regions.

The Russian ministry said it destroyed three drones over Kursk, three over Tambov, two over Belgorod, two over Mordovia, and one each over Bryansk and Lipetsk.

Ukraine regularly targets areas close to the Ukraine-Russia border such as Belgorod and Bryansk. The strikes on Mordovia and Tambov are among the less common attacks that hit much deeper into Russian territory.

Part of a pattern

At the United Nations, a senior official expressed concern about the increase in Russian attacks, which have resulted in rising casualties.

"Since March, the large-scale coordinated attacks on critical infrastructure destroyed or damaged more than two dozen energy facilities throughout the country, including the Dnipro hydroelectric power plant," Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca told the Security Council. "These attacks have disrupted access to electricity for millions of Ukrainians in large cities and in rural areas. Water supply was also disrupted in some locations."

The U.N. says it has confirmed at least 126 civilians were killed and 478 injured in March a a 20% increase over February.

"The deadly trend has continued this month with daily drone, missile, rocket and artillery attacks reported across the country," said Jenca.

Also worrisome are renewed attacks targeting Europe's largest nuclear plant at Zaporizhzhia. On Sunday, the facility, which is under Russian military control, was directly targeted for the first time since November 2022. Drone attacks were also reported on Monday and Tuesday.

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said Thursday in Vienna that the attack "marked a major escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers in Ukraine, significantly increasing the risk of a nuclear accident."

Rafael Mariano Grossi said one of the attacks directly hit the reactor dome of Unit 6, and while the incident was serious, the damage did not compromise nuclear safety. Two other attacks were near the main reactor buildings and resulted in at least one casualty.

"Rolling the dice is not the way to do it in nuclear safety," Grossi said.

The surge in attacks has not spared humanitarian workers. A senior U.N. humanitarian official told the Security Council that in March two aid workers were killed and 10 injured.

"Over the weekend, a humanitarian hub in Zaporizhzhia was hit, and last week a MAdecins Sans FrontiAres (Doctors Without Borders) office in the Donetsk region was destroyed by a missile attack," Edem Wosornu told the council. "Five civilians were injured, and MSF had to temporarily suspend critical medical activities."

She said in recent weeks first responders have also been targeted in second wave attacks as they respond to the scene of attacks.

Peace conference

Switzerland said Wednesday it will host a high-level international conference in June aimed at ending Russia's two-year war on Ukraine but acknowledged that Russia is unlikely to attend.

More than 100 countries have been invited to the resort town of Burgenstock for the June 15-16 conference. Swiss daily Neue ZArcher Zeitung reported that U.S. President Joe Biden, Ukraine's key global supporter, may attend, but White House officials said no decision has been made about which U.S. officials may be there.

The conference follows a plan laid out in recent months by Zelenskyy and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned last week that any negotiations to end the fighting could only be successful if Moscow's interests are taken into account. He called the Swiss round of peace talks a Western ruse to rally broader international support for Kyiv.

Zelenskyy said in his daily address Wednesday that Ukraine must be able to defend its airspace, its land and its waterways as part of a just end to the war. "We have no right to make a mistake in any of these aspects," he said. There needs to be "a clear position of the world regarding the just end of this war."

U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. Some information for this report was provided by Reuters, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse.

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Kyiv asks allies for help against alleged Russian abuse of Ukrainian POWs

By Iryna Shynkarenko, Tatiana Vorozhko April 11, 2024

While the debates around the U.S. aid to Ukraine focus on military assistance, Kyiv is asking Washington for support in another crucial area a locating POWs and civilian hostages held in Russia and their rehabilitation after they return home.

Ukraine has also called on the United States to introduce sanctions against those who abuse Ukrainian captives in Russian prisons.

Ttiana, who asked her surname be kept confidential for her family's safety, said her father, a civilian pensioner, was taken during the Russian occupation of his small Ukrainian village in April 2022.

She found out about his fate only after Ukrainian forces liberated the village. Later, she learned more from Ukrainian POWs who had shared jail cells with him before being released in prisoner swaps.

"They are given just enough food to keep them alive. ... They are not allowed to sit. They constantly stand," she told VOA.

Tetiana said other treatment amounts to psychological torture.

"They may be told that they're being taken for a [prisoner] exchange and then returned on the same day and told, 'We wanted to exchange you, but Ukraine doesn't want you back,'" she said.

TetNana talked to VOA in March during visits to the U.S. Senate and State Department with other relatives of prisoners and representatives of the Ukrainian Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War (KSHPPV).

Olha Pylypey, a member of the small delegation of relatives, told VOA about her brother, Yuliy Pylypey, a marine who fought in Mariupol. On April 12, 2022, he, along with other Ukrainian marines, was captured by the Russian forces at the Ilyich Iron and Steel Works plant.

Released prisoners told her that her brother is jailed in Kursk, Russia. They also told Yuliy's family that the administrators and guards of Russian prisons treat Ukrainian captives much worse than regular Russian inmates.

"They line up [Ukrainian prisoners] and release aggressive dogs on them and don't allow them to defend themselves," Pylypey said. She is afraid Yuliy may have also been raped.

Officials at the U.N. Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, or HRMMU, interviewed and documented 60 Ukrainian servicemen recently released from captivity and found that most of them had experienced sexual violence.

"Almost every single one of the Ukrainian POWs we interviewed described how Russian servicepersons or officials tortured them during their captivity, using repeated beatings, electric shocks, threats of execution, prolonged stress positions and mock execution. Over half of them were subjected to sexual violence," said Danielle Bell, who heads HRMMU.

Russian officials deny accusations of mistreatment of Ukrainian prisoners. On November 30, 2023, Russian Commissioner for Human Rights Tatiana Moskalkova said she visited 119 Ukrainian POWs in Russian prisons and found the prisons adhered to international standards.

Andriy Kryvtsov, head of the Military Medics of Ukraine nongovernmental organization, helped find his sister-in-law, military medic Olena Kryvtsova, who was part of a prisoner swap after six months in Russian captivity.

"They were tortured, beaten and used as punching bags," Kryvtsov said. "Russian special forces trained on them. They beat them like meat. She lost a lot of weight. When she came home, she weighed 77 pounds."

Along with other relatives of prisoners, Kryvtsov asked the U.S. and its partners for sanctions not only against the leadership of Russia but also against prison personnel.

"Putin is not personally torturing these people," he said.

Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military intelligence and a member of the KSHPPV, told VOA that Ukrainian officials understand that the U.S. can't force Russia to comply with the Geneva Convention treaties, which establish standards of humane treatment for people affected by armed conflicts, including POWs.

But he said the U.S. can help by locating the whereabouts of Ukrainians in Russian prisons so they can be included on the prisoner exchange lists.

The Red Cross has confirmed the identities of 5,000 Ukrainians in Russian captivity. But tens of thousands of people, both civilians and prisoners of war, remain missing, Ukrainian officials say.

Yusov also emphasized the importance of rehabilitating released prisoners and assisting their families.

"Thousands of family members of our defenders who ended up in captivity, as well as thousands of Ukrainians who've returned from Russian captivity, need social, psychological and medical support, and all this is a subject for our cooperation with partners," he told VOA.

Russia does not differentiate between civilians and military captives, considering both to have been "detained for counteracting the SVO," a Russian abbreviation for special military operation - Moscow's official designation of its invasion of Ukraine - Ukrainian human rights lawyers told the BBC.

Lawyers at the Center for Civil Liberties, the Ukrainian organization that received the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize, told the BBC that they believe there are about 2,000 Ukrainian civilian prisoners in Russia and the occupied territories.

According to a report by the U.N. Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine published in March, at least 32 Ukrainian servicemen were executed in Russian captivity between December 1, 2023, and February 29, 2024.

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NEW YORK, April 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of agilon health, inc. (NYSE: AGL): (i) pursuant and/or traceable to the offering documents issued in connection with the Companys May 2023 secondary public offering (the SPO or Offering); and/or (ii) between January 9, 2023 and January 4, 2024, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important May 20, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline.

SO WHAT: If you purchased agilon securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the agilon class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=23637 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than May 20, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period and in the SPO Materials, defendants misled investors about agilons medical costs by: (1) touting agilons purported visibility into utilization trends and medical costs; (2) failing to disclose increased medical costs that agilon had incurred prior to and during the Class Period due to higher utilization of healthcare by Medicare Advantage (MA) patients; (3) falsely stating that its accounting reserves for higher-than-expected medical costs were adequate; (4) making false and misleading statements about the effectiveness of its business model; (5) issuing overly optimistic financial guidance; and (6) issuing risk disclosures that were materially false and misleading because they characterized adverse facts that had already materialized as mere possibilities. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the agilon class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=23637 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

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NEWARK, Del, April 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The high clear film market is anticipated to be valued at US$ 4.2 billion by 2024. The market valuation is estimated to be US$ 5.5 billion by 2034, projected at a CAGR of 2.7%. Growing need for better optical qualities in packaging, automotive, and electronics, is driving the market for high clear films. These films are incredibly transparent, clear, and durable, making them ideal for applications that preserve products and exhibit images in the best possible way.



The manufacturing cost pressures and technical developments are two of the hurdles that the industry encounters. In order to remain ahead of the curve, manufacturers must strike a balance between the need for high-quality products and economical production techniques.

The market for high-clarity films offers tremendous potential for expansion and innovation, even in the face of obstacles. As technology advances, more attention is paid to creating thinner, more flexible films with improved qualities, including anti-glare and scratch resistance.

Growing consumer demand for ecologically friendly packaging solutions presents producers with additional opportunities as sustainable and eco-friendly materials become increasingly important.

Get Your Sample Report  Drive Business Success! https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-19240

Due to the expansion of end-use applications and geographical markets, market participants can broaden their offerings and take advantage of new prospects. Mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic alliances can help boost market presence and enable market expansion.

Attributes Key Insights Estimated Market Size in 2024 US$ 4.2 billion Projected Market Value in 2034 US$ 5.5 billion Value-based CAGR from 2024 to 2034 2.7 %

Key Takeaways from the Market Study

Under packaging type, the shrink films are accounted to hold a market share of 36.1% in 2024.

The United States is estimated to register at a CAGR of 1.4% by 2034.

China experiences significant growth, projected at a CAGR of 4.7% by 2034.

Based on application, the sachets and pouches segment is anticipated to hold a market share of 31.4% in 2024.

The boost in demand for superior optical properties and aesthetics across various industries is one significant driver for the high clear film market, Says a Ismail Sutaria Lead Consultant in Packaging at Future Market Insights (FMI).

Competitive Landscape

In the competitive landscape of the high clear film market, several key players dominate the industry. Emerging market players like Nanya, Duratarps, and Dehui Film are also gaining traction through technological innovations and strategic partnerships.

Regional players cater to niche market segments and localized demand. The market is characterized by intense competition, which drives innovation and fosters strategic collaborations among industry participants to maintain a competitive edge and meet evolving customer needs.

Key Companies Profiled:

Esterindustries

Nanya

Duratarps

Dehui Film

Avery Dennison

Eastman Performance Films

REEDEE Co. Ltd

Sino Vinyl

GSWF



Some of the key developments are:

In 2021, Nanya, announced a major expansion of its production capacity to meet growing demand in key markets. This development underscores the commitment to catering to the rise in needs of customers and strengthening its position in the global high clear film market.

In 2021, Duratarps, introduced a new line of high clear film-based tarpaulins. This product innovation aimed to provide customers with enhanced durability, weather resistance, and clarity, addressing the evolving requirements of agriculture, construction, and logistics industries.

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More Valuable Insights Available

Future Market Insights offers an unbiased global high clear film market analysis, providing historical data from 2019 to 2023 and forecast statistics from 2024 to 2034

To understand market opportunities, the high clear film market is segmented based on Material (PET, PP, PE), Application (Lamination, Printing, Sachets & Pouches, Security Applications), Packaging Type (Shrink Films, Labels, Liners) and Region (North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia and Pacific, East Asia, Middle East and Africa).

High Clear Film Market - Key Segments

By Material:

PET

PP

PE



By Application:

Lamination

Printing

Sachets & Pouches

Security Applications

By Packaging Type:

Shrink Films

Labels

Liners



By Region:

North America

Latin America

Western Europe

Eastern Europe

South Asia and Pacific

East Asia

The Middle East and Africa



Elevate Your Business Strategy! Purchase the Report for Market-Driven Insights! https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/19240

About the Packaging Division at Future Market Insights.

The packaging team at Future Market Insights offers expert analysis, time efficient research, and strategic recommendations with the objective to provide authentic insights and accurate results to help clients worldwide. With a repertoire of over 100+ reports and 1 Million+ data points, the team has been analyzing the market lucidly in 50+ countries for over a decade. The team provides a brief analysis on key trends including competitive landscape, profit margin, and research development efforts.

Authored by:

Ismail Sutaria (Lead Consultant, Packaging and Materials) has over 8 years of experience in market research and consulting in the packaging & materials industry. Ismails strength lies in identifying key challenges faced by the client and offering logical and actionable insights to equip the clients with strategic decision-making power.

Ismail has been an instrumental part of several transformational consulting assignments. His key skills include competitive benchmarking, opportunity assessment, macroeconomic analysis, and business transformation advisory. Ismail is an MBA holder in Marketing and has a Bachelors Degree in Mathematics.

Have a Look at Related Research Reports on Packaging Domain:

The global silicone release films market is on track to record an anticipated CAGR of 6.1% from 2022 to 2032.

The global sun control films market size is anticipated to be valued at US$ 6,509.1 million in 2023 and estimated to value at US$ 11,224.4 million by 2033. It is set to expand at a CAGR of 5.6% by 2033.

The edible films and coatings market size is projected to be worth US$ 2,210.0 million in 2023. The market is likely to surpass US$ 4,871.0 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period.

The dual ovenable lidding films market registered strong growth with worldwide revenues up 2.8% in 2023. A new forecast by Future Market Insights (FMI) estimates that revenue will nearly double between 2023 and 2033, reaching nearly US$ 142.3 million in 2033 at a ten-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6%.

The Packaging Barrier Film market is expected to be valued at US$ 18.8 billion in 2024. The pace of progress for the market from 2024 to 2034 is expected to be consistent, with a CAGR of 2.7%. By the end of the forecast period, the packaging barrier film industry value is slated to hit US$ 24.5 billion.

The metalized barrier film market size was valued at US$ 2.3 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach US$ 2.9 billion by 2034. The market is estimated to witness a CAGR of 2.7% from 2024 to 2034.

The global stretch hood film market size is anticipated to be worth US$ 1,066.7 million by 2034. According to the estimates, the market is projected to clock a 2.7% CAGR until 2034. In 2024, the stretch hood film market size is valued at US$ 820.4 million.

In 2024, the surface protection film market is expected to be worth around US$1.5 billion. Sales of surface protection films are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2024 to 2034. The market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 2.3 billion by 2034.

The edible films and coatings market size is projected to be worth US$ 2,210.0 million in 2023. The market is likely to surpass US$ 4,871.0 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period.

The global technical films market size is expected to be valued at US$ 38.5 billion in 2023. Increasing focus on safety & protection, bolsters the overall scope for technical films market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% between 2023 and 2033, totaling around US$ 64.5 billion by 2033.

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 400 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

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TOKYO, JAPAN, April 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- THXLAB Pte. Ltd., a 100% subsidiary of BANQ Corporation, a company expanding its FinTech/Web3 business, is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with IZUTSUYA Inc today. IZUTSUYA, a startup founded by Hiroto Ishii, the founder of the NFT marketplace "HINATA", aiming to realize a new era of digital licensing models using digital archives and Web3 technologies. By adopting THXNET.'s Web3aaS, IZUTSUYA will be able to swiftly launch new businesses. Through this partnership, they plan to establish a dedicated Layer 1 blockchain, build their own ecosystem, and provide users with new value.





THXLAB a Japan-based blockchain firm has been developing and operating THXNET. Web3aaS, a completely new blockchain network service, which matches the era of Web3 mass adoption. THXNET. is a hybrid blockchain network infrastructure that provides enterprises with secure and scalable dedicated Layer 1 blockchains, with its mainnet being the Layer 0 blockchain foundation. Additionally, it incorporates various On-chain/Off-chain technologies essential for integrating Web3 into businesses, offering them as a comprehensive one-stop solution through its APIs. THXNET. also incorporates innovative '2Earn' mechanisms, incentivizing service usage and a Web3 Data-mesh information sharing.

Companies can have their own dedicated blockchain (Layer 1) on THXNET. by paying an initial setup fee and monthly fees. Additionally, THXNET. provides a Web2.0-friendly API that can be easily used by non-blockchain engineers to add Web3 functionality to existing services. This allows companies to reduce time, costs, and risks, and easily implement the functionality using their in-house engineers.

THXNET.'s domestic expansion in Japan is being carried out by BANQ, and have already been involved in various projects with several legacy companies, aiming for Web3 transformation.

IZUTSUYA is a digital asset company that aims to unlock the potential of both the real and digital worlds by digitizing various items of high rarity and value, such as natural objects, cultural artifacts, and artworks. By linking them to the Web3, VR/AR, and AI domains, we strive to create value and expand possibilities in both realms. Leveraging blockchain technology, we archive assets that should be preserved for the future, protect rights in various areas where rights protection is lacking, and support management of revenue and licensing.

Comment from Aro Kondo, CEO of THXLAB Pte. Ltd.

"THXLAB positions IZUTSUYA as a strategic partner and will provide ongoing technical support while incorporating feedback from various services that IZUTSUYA will deploy in the future into THXNET. Web3aaS. This collaboration aims to promote the development of both parties and contribute to the realization of new business models and the expansion of the digital ecosystem in the Web3 era."

Comment from Hiroto Ishii, CEO of IZUTSUYA Inc.

"Our company has leveraged THXNET. to swiftly launch our dedicated L1 testnet in just a few days, commencing test operations from February 1st, 2024. By seamlessly integrating Web3 technology into our front-end service design, we have realized the speedy and effortless deployment of our envisioned service. With this capability, we aim to delve deeper into our envisioned business services based on the beta version launched and transition to the mainnet within one year."

About THXLAB

We provide a Japanese-origin one-stop blockchain network called "THXNET." Our focus is on facilitating the transition of companies from Web2.0 to Web3 through the Web3-as-a-Service (Web3-aaS) model. We aim to establish a business-centric Web3 service marketplace and support companies in their Web3 transformation. Through alliances with domestic and international companies, we will assist as partners in achieving a smooth transition to Web3.

Website: https://thxnet.org/

About IZUTSUYA

The company integrates the latest AI technology with its unique 3D scanning service, combining blockchain to achieve the digitization, archiving, and dual-sided license management of physical items, transcending the boundaries between the real and digital worlds, thereby creating a new form of digital asset company.

Website: https://izutsuya.io/

About BANQ

BANQ is a business company in the Web3 and FinTech industries and has established a joint venture called Minkabu Web3 Wallet Co., Ltd. with the aim of promoting NFT business. Currently, we are responsible for the domestic business development of THXNET.

Website: https://banq.co.jp/

Media Contact

Company: THXLAB

Contact: Ken N, CMO, THXLAB / THXNET.

Email: Ken@thxlab.io

Website: https://thxnet.org/

SOURCE: THXLAB
NEWARK, Del, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The on-orbit satellite servicing Market is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. The market is expected to rise at a CAGR of 12.3% through 2034. The market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 8.8 billion by 2034, rising from US$ 2.8 billion in 2024. Various factors drive this growth, including cost reduction, technological advancements, and sustainability efforts. Satellite operators are increasingly seeking on-orbit servicing as it helps extend the lifespan of their satellites, optimize their performance, and mitigate the risks associated with space debris.



Countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, China, South Korea, and Japan are expanding their presence in this market to capitalize on the growing demand for reliable and sustainable space operations. They leverage their technological expertise, robust aerospace industries, and supportive regulatory environments to drive the expansion in on-orbit satellite servicing. These nations are leading advancements in servicing technologies and offering innovative solutions to meet evolving market demands through strategic partnerships, investments in research and development, and participation in international collaborations.

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The demand for different types of satellite servicing fluctuates according to needs; small satellites in the on-orbit satellite servicing market are rising due to their unique operational advantages. Small satellites are being increasingly deployed to offer satellite-based services across various sectors. Active debris removal services are becoming popular to proactively remove defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and other debris from orbit.

Some challenges pose potential constraints to market growth, such as regulatory hurdles, safety concerns, and environmental impacts. Despite these challenges, the market thrives, driven by increasing awareness, technological innovation, and the pressing need for sustainable space operations.

Collaborations between governments, commercial entities, and academic institutions play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of on-orbit servicing technologies, ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities.

Technological advancements and sustainability initiatives present opportunities for companies to offer advanced maintenance, repair, and upgrade services. The trend toward satellite miniaturization and small satellite constellations also opens up scalable and cost-effective servicing solutions for industry players, says Nikhil Kaitwade (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc.)

Key Takeaways from the Market Study

Active debris removal (ADR) and orbit adjustment services are poised to significantly influence the on-orbit satellite servicing market, which is expected to rise at a CAGR of 11.8% from 2024 to 2034.

from 2024 to 2034. The market is projected to experience a robust upsurge propelled by small satellites, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.1% until 2034.

until 2034. The on-orbit satellite servicing market in South Korea has the potential to increase at a 14.1% CAGR through 2034.

CAGR through 2034. The on-orbit satellite servicing market in Japan is projected to inflate at a CAGR of 13.9% through 2034.

through 2034. The on-orbit satellite servicing market in the United Kingdom is predicted to rise at a 13.6% CAGR through 2034.

CAGR through 2034. On-orbit satellite servicing in China is anticipated to develop at a CAGR of 12.9% through 2034.

through 2034. On-orbit satellite servicing in the United States is estimated to rise at a whopping 12.5% CAGR through 2034.



Competitive Landscape

Leading on-orbit satellite servicing companies are expanding their global presence by forming strategic partnerships, developing advanced technologies, and penetrating new markets. They are collaborating with international space agencies, satellite operators, and industry stakeholders to extend their reach across geographies.

Major companies also invest in research and development to enhance their servicing capabilities, focusing on improving robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. By leveraging their expertise and resources, they aim to meet the diverse needs of customers, comply with regulatory requirements, and take advantage of emerging opportunities in the dynamic space industry.

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Top 10 Key Players in the On-orbit Satellites Servicing Market

Maxar Technologies

Astroscale Holdings Inc.

SpaceLogistics LLC

Airbus SE

Thales Alenia Space



Recent Developments

Astroscale Holdings Inc. introduced its Generation 2 Docking Plate on June 13, 2023, setting a new industry standard for satellite servicing.

Astroscale France SAS chose Toulouse as its primary site for pioneering on-orbit servicing technologies on October 19, 2023.

NASA and its collaborators concluded the On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing 2 (OSAM-2) project on September 29, 2023.

On February 2, 2024, the Space Force was urged to support the on-orbit servicing and logistics market with a definitive demand signal.

Market Segmentation

By Type:

Small Satellites

Medium Satellites

Large Satellites



By Service:

Active Debris Removal (ADR) and Orbit Adjustment

Robotic Servicing

Refueling

Assembly

By End User:

Military and Government

Commercial

By Region:

North America

Latin America

Asia Pacific

Middle East and Africa (MEA)

Europe



Author by:

Nikhil Kaitwade (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc.) has over a decade of experience in market research and business consulting. He has successfully delivered 1500+ client assignments, predominantly in Automotive, Chemicals, Industrial Equipment, Oil & Gas, and Service industries.

His core competency circles around developing research methodology, creating a unique analysis framework, statistical data models for pricing analysis, competition mapping, and market feasibility analysis. His expertise also extends wide and beyond analysis, advising clients on identifying growth potential in established and niche market segments, investment/divestment decisions, and market entry decision-making.

Nikhil holds an MBA degree in Marketing and IT and a Graduate in Mechanical Engineering. Nikhil has authored several publications and quoted in journals like EMS Now, EPR Magazine, and EE Times.

Explore wide-ranging Coverage of FMI's Industrial Automation Market Insights Landscape

By 2033, the global pipeline monitoring system market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% and reach US$ 28819.2 million.

The valve remote control systems market is expected to grow at a 6.7% CAGR between 2023 and 2033. It is projected that sales will surpass US$ 7.9 billion in 2023 and US$ 15.1 billion by the end of 2033.

The high-pressure booster market size is progressing toward a valuation of US$ 3,400.7 million in 2024. Given technological progression, this booster offers various advantages to consumers. This makes it a viable and cost-effective option.

The dispensing robots market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 13.8% from 2022 to 2032. By 2032, it is estimated to have grown from US$ 1.5 billion in 2022 to US$ 5.46 billion in valuation.



The global marine hatch covers market is projected to record a robust CAGR of 7.6% between 2023 and 2033, totaling around US$ 327.7 million by the end of 2033.

The India electrical testing services market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 308.4 million by 2033. with a CAGR of 4.4% from 2023 to 2033.

The global industrial weighing equipment market is projected to reach US$ 2.4 billion by 2033. A CAGR worth 5% is expected for the market during the forecast period.

The worldwide material handling equipment market is expected to record a 4.5% CAGR between 2023 and 2033, reaching a valuation of US$ 6,555.9 million.

The duct fans market is expected to rise to US$ 162,788.1 million by 2033. The sales are expected to record a significant CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period.

The combined cooling heat and power plants market is expected to grow at an impressive 5.8% CAGR through 2033, when it is expected to be valued at US$ 4.0 billion.

About Future Market Insights (FMI)

Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in Dubai and has delivery centers in the United Kingdom, the United States, and India. FMI's latest market research reports and industry analysis helps businesses navigate challenges and make critical decisions with confidence and clarity amidst breakneck competition. Our customized and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. A team of expert-led analysts at FMI continuously tracks emerging trends and events in a broad range of industries to ensure that our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.

Contact Us:

Nandini Singh Sawlani
Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Austria Social Commerce Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics Databook - 50+ KPIs on Social Commerce Trends by End-Use Sectors, Operational KPIs, Retail Product Dynamics, and Consumer Demographics - Q1 2024 Update" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Social commerce industry in Austria is expected to grow by 19.1% on annual basis to reach US$1.08 billion in 2024. The social commerce industry is expected to grow steadily over the forecast period, recording a CAGR of 15.4% during 2024-2029. The social commerce GMV in the country will increase from US$908.41 million in 2023 to reach US$2.21 billion by 2029.







This report provides a detailed data centric analysis of social commerce industry, covering market opportunities and risks. With over 50+ KPIs at country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of social commerce market dynamics, market size and forecast, and market share statistics.



The research methodology is based on industry best practices. Its unbiased analysis leverages a proprietary analytics platform to offer a detailed view on emerging business and investment market opportunities.

Reasons to buy

In-depth Understanding of Social Commerce Market Dynamics: Understand market opportunities and key trends along with forecast (2020-2029).

Insights into Opportunity by end-use sectors - Get market dynamics by end-use sectors to assess emerging opportunity across various end-use sectors.

Develop Market Specific Strategies: Identify growth segments and target specific opportunities to formulate social commerce strategy; assess market specific key trends, drivers, and risks in the industry.





Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 70 Forecast Period 2024 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.1 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $2.2 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 15.4% Regions Covered Austria

Scope

Austria Social Commerce Industry Key Players

Facebook

Instagram

Shopify

Refurbed

wikifolio

kyddo

snooopit

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Performance Indicators, 2020-2029

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Retail Product Categories, 2020-2029

Clothing & Footwear

Beauty and Personal Care

Food & Grocery

Appliances and Electronics

Home Improvement

Travel

Hospitality

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by End Use Consumer Segment, 2020-2029

B2B

B2C

C2C

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by End Use Device, 2020-2029

Mobile

Desktop

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Location, 2020-2029

Domestic

Cross Border

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Location, 2020-2029

Tier-1 Cities

Tier-2 Cities

Tier-3 Cities

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Payment Method, 2020-2029

Credit Card

Debit Card

Bank Transfer

Prepaid Card

Digital & Mobile Wallet

Other Digital Payment

Cash

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Platforms

Video Commerce

Social Network-Led Commerce

Social Reselling

Group Buying

Product Review Platforms

Austria Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Consumer Demographics & Behaviour,2023

By Age

By Income Level

By Gender

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/3ac8ki

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Argentina Social Commerce Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics Databook - 50+ KPIs on Social Commerce Trends by End-Use Sectors, Operational KPIs, Retail Product Dynamics, and Consumer Demographics - Q1 2024 Update" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Social commerce industry in Argentina is expected to grow by 40.3% on annual basis to reach US$2.24 billion in 2024. The social commerce industry is expected to grow steadily over the forecast period, recording a CAGR of 32.6% during 2024-2029. The social commerce GMV in the country will increase from US$1.59 billion in 2023 to reach US$9.17 billion by 2029.







This report provides a detailed data centric analysis of social commerce industry, covering market opportunities and risks. With over 50+ KPIs at country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of social commerce market dynamics, market size and forecast, and market share statistics.



The research methodology is based on industry best practices. Its unbiased analysis leverages a proprietary analytics platform to offer a detailed view on emerging business and investment market opportunities.

Reasons to buy

In-depth Understanding of Social Commerce Market Dynamics: Understand market opportunities and key trends along with forecast (2020-2029).

Insights into Opportunity by end-use sectors - Get market dynamics by end-use sectors to assess emerging opportunity across various end-use sectors.

Develop Market Specific Strategies: Identify growth segments and target specific opportunities to formulate social commerce strategy; assess market specific key trends, drivers, and risks in the industry.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 70 Forecast Period 2024 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $2.2 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $9.2 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 32.6% Regions Covered Argentina



Scope



Argentina Ecommerce Industry Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Performance Indicators, 2020-2029

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Performance Indicators, 2020-2029

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Retail Product Categories, 2020-2029

Clothing & Footwear

Beauty and Personal Care

Food & Grocery

Appliances and Electronics

Home Improvement

Travel

Hospitality

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by End Use Consumer Segment, 2020-2029

B2B

B2C

C2C

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by End Use Device, 2020-2029

Mobile

Desktop

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Location, 2020-2029

Domestic

Cross Border

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Location, 2020-2029

Tier-1 Cities

Tier-2 Cities

Tier-3 Cities

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Payment Method, 2020-2029

Credit Card

Debit Card

Bank Transfer

Prepaid Card

Digital & Mobile Wallet

Other Digital Payment

Cash

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Platforms

Video Commerce

Social Network-Led Commerce

Social Reselling

Group Buying

Product Review Platforms

Argentina Social Commerce Industry Market Size and Forecast by Consumer Demographics & Behaviour,2023

By Age

By Income Level

By Gender

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/luag0d

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Germany International Remittance Market Business and Investment Opportunities - Analysis by Transaction Value & Volume, Inbound and Outbound Transfers to and from Key States, Consumer Demographics - Q1 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The international remittance market in Germany has maintained a strong growth trajectory, according to a comprehensive analysis for the first quarter of 2024. Inbound remittances have witnessed a modest growth rate of 4% in 2023, culminating in a projected value of US$ 20.98 billion in 2024. This segment is further anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.6% through 2028, anticipated to reach a market value of US$ 23.25 billion.



The outbound remittance sector has shown even more vigor with a 6.7% growth rate recorded in 2023. Projections indicate an increase from US$ 19.03 billion in 2023 to an expected US$ 22.96 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 3.1%. These developments suggest a sustained pattern of growth, reflecting a robust market outlook.





The report delves into market opportunities by transaction value and volume, providing an analysis of the average value per transaction alongside insights into market share held by key players within the German remittance ecosystem. The study extends to examine market opportunities segmented by transfer channels, elucidating trends in digital, mobile, and non-digital transactions.



Consumer profiles form a pivotal component of this analysis. Age groups, income brackets, occupational backgrounds, and the purposes driving remittance activities are dissected, yielding granular understanding of the markets demographic features. Such insights are instrumental in recognizing the nuances governing remittance patterns both into and out of Germany.



Strategic Implications for Stakeholders



The strategic emphasis of this report lies in its detailed account of consumer behavior, enabling stakeholders to align their operational strategies to evolving market trends and preferences. Insight into inbound and outbound remittance flow, including market opportunity by key sending and receiving countries, offers a directional guide for businesses looking to capitalize on emergent opportunities.



The findings also detail a competitive landscape, providing entities participating in the remittance market with context critical for strategic positioning and decision-making. Forecasting elements furnish stakeholders with a calculable outlook, empowering them to plan and strategize with an eye toward long-term growth.



This latest analysis is anticipated to support businesses, financial institutions, and policymakers as they navigate the dynamic landscape of international remittances in Germany. With this intelligence, stakeholders are better equipped to make informed decisions and leverage emerging prospects in a primed remittance market.



Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 130 Forecast Period 2024 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $21 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $23.3 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 2.6% Regions Covered Germany



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/yl1j5x

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Belgium International Remittance Market Business and Investment Opportunities - Analysis by Transaction Value & Volume, Inbound and Outbound Transfers to and from Key States, Consumer Demographics - Q1 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Belgian international remittance market has demonstrated sustained growth, witnessing a 3.3% increase in the inbound remittance sector, reaching a total of US$ 14.66 billion in 2024. The market is forecasted to continue its growth trajectory at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.4% from 2024 to 2028, projected to achieve US$ 15.48 billion by 2028. Similarly, the outbound remittance market has grown by 3.8% during 2023, signaling a robust uptrend with expectations to scale up to US$ 9.16 billion by the end of the forecast period in 2028.







The comprehensive analysis of Belgiums international remittance landscape reveals significant insights into the sector's current state and future outlook. This includes a nuanced study of transaction values and volumes, average values per transaction, and extensive profiling of consumer demographics. The report segments the market into digital, mobile, and non-digital channels, providing a detailed perspective on each segments performance and potential.



Consumer Insights



An in-depth examination of consumer profiles within the Belgian remittance market sheds light on the key attributes of senders and beneficiaries, including age groups, income levels, occupations, and the underlying purposes of remittance transactions. This offers valuable understanding for stakeholders regarding who constitutes the primary users of remittance services.



Geographical Dynamics



The report offers a detailed look at the flow dynamics of remittances, mapping the key sending countries to states or regions within Belgium. It not only analyses the transaction values and volumes but also provides insights into the market share held by different transfer channels, elucidating the preferences and behaviors of remittance senders and receivers.



Strategic Opportunities



For businesses and investors operating in or considering entry into the Belgian remittance market, the reports findings present actionable insights. With data-driven analysis, the report underscores potential opportunities and equips market players with the information required to make strategic decisions and stay ahead in the competitive landscape.



Future Outlook



Armed with market forecasts, businesses and investors can strategically plan for the future growth of Belgium's remittance market. The comprehensive analysis acts as a guide to future trends and growth patterns, aiding in the formulation of informed, data-backed business strategies.



This report identifies Belgium's international remittance market as a uniquely poised sector, characterized by its steady growth and expansive future potential. As the market navigates the evolving financial landscape, the insights within the report are designed to support stakeholders in harnessing the markets full potential and contributing to their sustained success.



Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 130 Forecast Period 2024 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $14.7 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $15.5 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 1.4% Regions Covered Belgium





For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/dekz85

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Photodiode Sensors Market Size, Market Share, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Growth Trends, Key Players, Competitive Strategies and Forecasts, 2023 to 2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global photodiode sensors market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2032, driven by technological advancements, diverse applications, and increasing demand from key industries. While challenges such as supply chain disruptions pose temporary setbacks, the market's overall trajectory remains optimistic. The strategic initiatives of key players further contribute to the market's dynamism, ensuring continuous innovation and competitiveness. As the market evolves, stakeholders should stay attuned to emerging trends and technological developments to harness the full potential of the photodiode sensors industry.



Technological Advancements and Miniaturization



The photodiode sensors market is witnessing substantial growth due to continuous technological advancements and the trend of miniaturization. Ongoing developments in semiconductor technologies have led to the production of more compact and efficient photodiode sensors. Miniaturized sensors find extensive applications in portable electronic devices, medical equipment, and industrial automation.



For instance, advancements in the design and fabrication of PIN photodiodes have enabled enhanced sensitivity and reduced footprint, meeting the demand for smaller and more efficient sensors. Additionally, the integration of photodiode sensors into various consumer electronics, such as smartphones, wearables, and cameras, has expanded their market reach. This trend is substantiated by evidence from market reports and industry publications, emphasizing the increasing adoption of miniaturized photodiode sensors across diverse applications.



Growing Demand for Remote Sensing and LiDAR Technology



The increasing demand for remote sensing technologies, including LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), is a significant driver propelling the photodiode sensors market. LiDAR systems utilize photodiode sensors to detect and measure distances by emitting laser pulses and analyzing the reflected light. This technology finds applications in autonomous vehicles, environmental monitoring, and geospatial mapping.



Evidence from industry studies and real-world implementations highlights the surge in demand for LiDAR-based solutions, showcasing the crucial role of photodiode sensors in enabling precise and efficient distance measurement. The automotive industry, in particular, is witnessing a growing integration of LiDAR systems for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles.



Increasing Adoption of Photodiode Sensors in Healthcare



The healthcare sector is emerging as a significant contributor to the growth of the photodiode sensors market. The use of photodiode sensors in medical devices, such as pulse oximeters and diagnostic equipment, has become widespread. These sensors play a crucial role in accurately detecting and measuring light signals, facilitating vital health-related measurements. Evidence gathered from market surveys and healthcare industry reports supports the notion of rising adoption of photodiode sensors in various medical applications. The demand is driven by the sensors' reliability, precision, and ability to operate in different wavelength ranges, making them suitable for diverse healthcare applications.



Restraint: Supply Chain Disruptions Impacting Production



Despite the optimistic market scenario, the photodiode sensors industry faces a notable restraint in the form of supply chain disruptions. The global supply chain challenges, exacerbated by unforeseen events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have impacted the production and distribution of key components, including photodiode sensors. Supply chain disruptions have led to delays in manufacturing processes, affecting the timely delivery of photodiode sensors to end-users. This restraint is evidenced by instances of production slowdowns, increased lead times, and challenges in sourcing raw materials for sensor fabrication.



Market Analysis by Photodiode Type: Avalanche Photodiode Dominates the Market



In 2023, among the various photodiode types, the Avalanche Photodiode segment recorded the highest revenue. Simultaneously, in terms of CAGR for the forecast period from 2024 to 2032, the PIN Photodiode segment is expected to exhibit the most significant growth. This suggests a dynamic market scenario with different photodiode types leading in revenue and growth at different points in time.



Market Analysis by Wavelength: Near Infrared (NIR) Spectrum Dominates the Market



Regarding wavelength segmentation, the Near Infrared (NIR) Spectrum dominated both in terms of revenue and expected CAGR during the forecast period. The evidence suggests a strong market preference for photodiode sensors operating in the Near Infrared Spectrum due to their diverse applications in areas such as industrial sensing and medical diagnostics.



North America Remains the Global Leader



The geographic trends in the photodiode sensors market indicate that the region with the highest CAGR is Asia-Pacific, emphasizing the growing significance of this market in the region. Additionally, North America emerges as the region with the highest revenue percentage, underlining its established market presence and substantial contribution to the global market.



Market Competition to Intensify during the Forecast Period



In the competitive landscape of the photodiode sensors market, several key players are implementing strategic measures to maintain their market positions. Notable companies are focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and geographic expansion. These companies aim to address evolving customer needs, enhance product portfolios, and extend their global reach. The overarching strategy among key players is to leverage their technological expertise and collaborate with industry partners to stay competitive in the rapidly advancing photodiode sensors market.

Companies Featured

Hamamatsu Photonics

Vishay Intertechnology

ON Semiconductor

Centronic

Edmund Optics Inc.

Everlight Americas Inc.

Excelitas Technologies Corp.

First Sensor AG

Global Communication Semiconductors, LLC

Kyoto Semiconductor Co. Ltd.

New Japan Radio Co. Ltd.

OSI Optoelectronics

Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbH

Quantum Devices

Rohm Co. Ltd.

Semiconductor Components Industries, LLC

Thorlabs, Inc.

TT Electronics PLC

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.

Study Coverage

This study represents analysis of each segment from 2021 to 2031 considering 2022 as the base year. It presents a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for each of the respective segments estimated for the forecast period of 2023 to 2031.



The report comprises of quantitative market estimations for each micro market for every geographical region and qualitative market analysis such as micro and macro environment analysis, market trends, competitive intelligence, segment analysis, porters five force model, top winning strategies, top investment markets, emerging trends and technological analysis, case studies, strategic conclusions and recommendations and other key market insights.



Market Segmentation

Photodiode Type

PN Photodiode

PIN Photodiode

Avalanche Photodiode

Schottky Photodiode

Wavelength

Ultra Violet (UV) Spectrum

Near Infrared (NIR) Spectrum

Infrared (IR) Spectrum

Visible Spectrum

Material

Silicon (Si)

Germanium (Ge)

Gallium Phosphide (GaP)

Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs)

Others (InAsSb, MCT, HgCdTe, etc.)

Application

Consumer Electronic Devices

Medical Equipment

Safety Equipment

Communication Devices

Others (ADAS Systems, Analytical Instruments, etc.)

End-use

IT & Telecommunication

Healthcare

Consumer Electronics

Automotive & Transportation

Aerospace &Defense

Others (Research, Industrial, etc.)

Region

North America

UK and European Union

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ldawp4

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.
Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Refinish Paint Market Size, Market Share, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Growth Trends, Key Players, Competitive Strategies and Forecasts, 2023 to 2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global refinish paint market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2032. The market drivers, including the growing demand for automotive refinishing, increasing adoption of polyurethane coatings, and the rising demand for environmentally friendly coatings, underscore the dynamic forces propelling market growth. The identified restraint related to supply chain disruptions in raw materials highlights challenges that the industry must address to ensure consistent growth.



Market segmentation reveals the diverse materials and coat types used in refinishing paint formulations, catering to specific industry needs. Geographically, the market exhibits dynamic trends, with Asia-Pacific leading in both revenue and CAGR, reflecting the region's prominence in automotive manufacturing. Competitive trends highlight investment in research and development, strategic partnerships for market expansion, and a focus on sustainability as key strategies adopted by major players.



As the market progresses from 2024 to 2032, these trends are expected to shape the refinish paint industry, fostering innovation and market competitiveness. The actual conclusion drawn from the generated content is that the refinish paint market is poised for sustained growth, driven by technological advancements, strategic initiatives from key players, and the industry's commitment to addressing environmental challenges.



Growing Automotive Refinishing Demand: Evidence from Automotive Industry Trends



The refinish paint market experiences robust growth driven by the growing demand for automotive refinishing. Evidence from automotive industry trends in 2023 indicates a surge in the need for refinishing solutions, with major automakers like Toyota, Ford, and Volkswagen contributing to the increased demand. The highest Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2032 is anticipated in this segment, highlighting the automotive sector's reliance on refinishing paint for vehicle maintenance and aesthetics. As the global automotive fleet expands, the market for automotive refinishing is poised for continued growth.



Increasing Adoption of Polyurethane Coatings: Application Dominance and Industry Shifts



The refinish paint market witnesses significant growth with the increasing adoption of polyurethane coatings. Evidence from diverse applications, including automotive and industrial sectors in 2023, showcases the dominance of polyurethane coatings. Major automotive refinishing centers and industrial facilities demonstrate a preference for polyurethane coatings due to their durability and versatility. The highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032 is expected in this segment, signifying the industry's shift towards advanced and resilient coating solutions. This driver reflects the market's responsiveness to evolving industry needs and the quest for superior performance.



Rising Demand for Environmentally Friendly Coatings: Industry Embrace of Sustainable Practices



The refinish paint market sees substantial growth propelled by the rising demand for environmentally friendly coatings. Evidence from industry trends in 2023 highlights the shift towards sustainable practices, with key players adopting eco-friendly formulations. The highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032 is anticipated in this segment, indicating the industry's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. As regulatory pressures and consumer preferences align toward sustainability, the market for environmentally friendly coatings is set to witness sustained growth.



Supply Chain Disruptions in Raw Materials: Challenges and Industry Adaptations



A significant restraint in the refinish paint market is associated with supply chain disruptions in raw materials. Evidence includes instances in 2023 where the industry faced challenges in securing essential raw materials, leading to fluctuations in production and pricing. This restraint underscores the need for industry players to adapt their supply chain strategies, explore alternative sourcing options, and establish resilient supply networks. As the industry grapples with these challenges, strategic adaptations will be crucial in ensuring a stable and consistent supply of raw materials.



Market Analysis by Material: Polyurethane Coatings Dominates the Market



In 2023, the refinish paint market demonstrated substantial revenue from polyurethane coatings, with polyurethane leading in both revenue and CAGR. This reflects the dominance of polyurethane coatings in various applications. The highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032 is expected in the epoxy coatings category, indicating the increasing preference for this material in specific applications. This segmentation provides insights into the diverse materials used in refinishing paint formulations, catering to different industry needs.



Market Analysis by Coat Type: Clearcoat Dominates the Market



The refinish paint market showcased significant revenue from both the clearcoat and basecoat categories in 2023, with clearcoat leading in both revenue and CAGR. This reflects the critical role of clearcoat in providing a protective and glossy finish. The highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032 is anticipated in the primer category, emphasizing the importance of surface preparation in the refinishing process. This segmentation reveals the specific functions of different coat types and their significance in achieving high-quality finishes.



APAC Remains the Global Leader



Geographically, the refinish paint market demonstrated dynamic trends in 2023, with Asia-Pacific leading in revenue generation and the highest CAGR. This reflects the region's strong presence in automotive manufacturing and industrial applications, driving the demand for refinishing paint. North America and Europe also contributed substantially to revenue, showcasing a global trend towards the widespread adoption of refinish paint in diverse applications. This geographic segmentation provides insights into the regional dynamics shaping the refinish paint market.



Investment in R&D to Remain the Key to Enhance Market Share



The refinish paint market's competitive landscape is characterized by key players adopting strategies to strengthen their market position. Major companies have implemented diverse strategies to capitalize on market opportunities. A notable trend in the refinish paint market is the investment in research and development, as evidenced by major players in 2023. Companies like PPG Industries and BASF SE have allocated significant resources to enhance the performance of their refinish paint products.



This strategy aligns with the industry's commitment to delivering high-performance solutions that meet the evolving needs of end-users. As technology continues to advance, companies investing in research and development are expected to gain a competitive edge in the market. Strategic partnerships for market expansion emerge as a key trend among top players in the refinish paint market, as evidenced by significant initiatives in 2023.



Companies like Axalta Coating Systems and Sherwin-Williams have formed collaborations to broaden their market reach and offer a comprehensive range of solutions. These partnerships leverage the strengths of each entity, combining resources and expertise to address a wider customer base. In an industry where market presence is crucial, strategic partnerships play a pivotal role in achieving sustained growth.

Companies Featured

PPG Industries

Axalta Coating Systems

BASF SE

AkzoNobel N.V.

Sherwin-Williams

Nippon Paint Holdings

Study Coverage

This study represents analysis of each segment from 2021 to 2031 considering 2022 as the base year. It presents a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for each of the respective segments estimated for the forecast period of 2023 to 2031.



The report comprises of quantitative market estimations for each micro market for every geographical region and qualitative market analysis such as micro and macro environment analysis, market trends, competitive intelligence, segment analysis, porters five force model, top winning strategies, top investment markets, emerging trends and technological analysis, case studies, strategic conclusions and recommendations and other key market insights.



Market Segmentation

Material

Polyurethane

Acrylic

Epoxy

Alkyd-based

Nitrocellulose

Others

Coat Type

Clearcoat

Basecoat

Topcoat

Primer

Others

Product

Solvent-based

Water-based

Application

Passenger Vehicles

Commercial Vehicles

Region

North America

UK and European Union

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/4ep35g

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.
SHENZEN, China, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At Embedded World 2024 in Nuremberg, Germany, industrial grade storage brand KingSpec (also known as YANSEN) presented its 2.5 SSD specialized for in-vehicle storage solutions. Embedded World serves as a global platform gathering industry-leading enterprises, technologies, and experts. At this exhibition, YANSEN showcased a solution specifically designed for in vehicle, rail transit and surveillance industries.



With the rapid growth of electric vehicles and intelligent connected cars, the demand for reliable, high-capacity in-vehicle data storage is soaring. Secure storage solutions are becoming more essential. YANSENs 2.5 in-vehicle SSD is engineered specifically for challenging transportation applications.

Withstanding Harsh Environments

Rail transit operations face challenging conditions, requiring storage hardware capable of enduring wide temperature ranges, vibrations, and humidity. The 2.5 in-vehicle SSD has undergone rigorous testing beyond industry standards, with an operating temperature range of 0C to 70C and a MTBF exceeding 2 million hours. The product features conformal coating and underfill dispensing design to ensure data integrity even in extreme environments.

Robust Protection Against Data Loss

During vehicle operation, issues like voltage fluctuations and unexpected power losses can occur, posing risks of data loss for traditional storage devices. YANSEN's 2.5 in-vehicle SSD supports firmware-level power loss protection (PLP), backing up and restoring the latest data to prevent firmware and data corruption effectively.

Moreover, the 2.5 in-vehicle SSD employs a TLC direct writing algorithm, optimizing Flash management strategies to maintain consistent write speed and resolve potential frame drops during extended high-density data storage, ensuring complete video data integrity.

Comprehensive Storage Solutions

As automotive intelligence advances, in-vehicle storage requirements for capacity and reliability continue to increase. YANSEN has a comprehensive lineup, offering different product portfolios to meet diverse storage needs across different scenarios. Its product portfolio is already widely adopted in applications like passenger transport, logistics freight, law enforcement vehicles, high-speed rail, and other mobile transportation vehicles.

About YANSEN

With over 17 years of experience, and ownership of over 180 patents, YANSEN provides highly reliable data storage solutions. YANSEN is a brand concentrated on providing solutions for industrial embedded applications.

Media Contact:

Company Name: Shenzhen KingSpec Electronics Technology Co., Ltd.

Address: 2001, Block C, Minzhi Joint Stock Commercial Center, North Station Community, Minzhi Street, Longhua District, Shenzhen, China, 518000

Tel: 400-7799-711

Email: info@yansen-ssd.com

Website: https://www.yansen-ssd.com/

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aaadf7fd-6f5e-4b1b-b406-4ca56d1c37a5
Ottawa, ON, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Yesterday, Metis National Council President, Cassidy Caron, met with The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada to engage in a nation-to-nation dialogue on Metis priorities prior to the release of Budget 2024.

Discussions between President Caron and Prime Minister Trudeau focussed largely on the key priorities of the Metis Nation requiring investment from Budget 2024, as well as ways to continue advancing Metis Nation inherent rights, including support for the inherent right of Metis government, currently being advanced by Metis Governments who comprise the MNC.

I want to thank Prime Minister Trudeau for meeting with me today, shared President Caron, as leaders of our respective Nations, we recognize that our priorities are not different from one another, and that by working together we can achieve great things for our people.

Eight years ago, the Daniels decision affirmed that Canada holds the same fiduciary duty to Metis as it does to Inuit and First Nations. Despite this, the Metis Nation continues facing barriers implementing Metis rights and is seeking critical investments in Budget 2024 to address existing gaps and improve socio-economic outcomes for Metis citizens.

Priorities discussed included health, education, emergency management, and economic development, as well as the full recognition and implementation of the Metis Nations inherent rights. President Caron stated that, we are in a critical time in history as we inch closer to the advancement of Metis self-government, fulfilling the dreams of our ancestors. Canada must respect Metis rights and the jurisdiction of our Metis Governments as we continue to build strong and fruitful relationships between the Metis Nation and Canada.

The Metis National Council looks forward to future meetings with the Prime Minister, including the upcoming Crown-Metis Nation Summit in May, where key shared priorities will be further advanced with leadership from across the Metis Homeland.

-30-

Since 1983, the Metis National Council has been the national and international voice of the Metis Nation within Canada. Through the Canada-Metis Nation Accord, the MNC advocates on behalf of its Governing Membersthe democratically elected Metis Governments of Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbiato advance Metis rights and interests within their respective jurisdictions, including the implementation of the Metis Nations inherent right to self-determination and self-government. The MNC is committed to accountability and transparency within its operations, and to its relationships with MNC Governing Members. Cassidy Caron is the President of the Metis National Council.
Mahe, Seychelles, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BitMart, a leading global digital asset trading platform, is thrilled to announce its BTC Halving Celebration, an exciting series of activities designed to commemorate the 2024 Bitcoin Halving event in April. As Bitcoin recently hit a new all-time high, the anticipation surrounding the halving is at an all-time high, and BitMart aims to provide users with opportunities to engage with the event.





The Bitcoin Halving event, occurring approximately every four years, is a significant milestone in the cryptocurrency world. It involves a recurring, periodic event programmed into the Bitcoin protocol thats designed to ensure its scarcity and, by extension, its potential value over time.



To celebrate this momentous occasion, BitMart is launching various activities to engage with its users and the larger crypto community. BitMarts BTC Halving Celebration includes:





A social media campaign : Users are invited to share their understanding of Bitcoin Halving and predict BTC's price on the Halving Day for a chance to win a share of 500 USDT.

Users are invited to share their understanding of Bitcoin Halving and predict BTC's price on the Halving Day for a chance to win a share of 500 USDT. BTC Halving Quiz: Users can share a $1000 prize pool, with the first 200 users achieving a perfect score each receiving selected token rewards.

Users can share a $1000 prize pool, with the first 200 users achieving a perfect score each receiving selected token rewards. BTC Trading Reward Pool: Trade BTC to Share $5,000 in Rewards. Users who trade eligible BTC spot trading pairs and meet certain requirements during the promotional period will have the opportunity to share $5,000 in rewards, and;

Trade BTC to Share $5,000 in Rewards. Users who trade eligible BTC spot trading pairs and meet certain requirements during the promotional period will have the opportunity to share $5,000 in rewards, and; A Deposit & Hold BTC Rewards Pool: Share $2,000 in Rewards. BitMart users who meet deposit and hold requirements during the celebration will be eligible to share $2,000 in rewards.

"We are delighted to host the BTC Halving Celebration to mark this significant event in the crypto industry," said Nickolas Hoog, VP of Marketing at BitMart. "The Bitcoin Halving represents a crucial moment in Bitcoin's history, and with Bitcoin recently reaching new all-time highs after the BTC ETF approval, the anticipation surrounding the halving is palpable. At BitMart, we are committed to providing our millions of users with exciting opportunities to engage with the crypto community and participate in market movements."



The BTC Halving Celebration promotions will be available for a limited time. For more information and to participate, visit BitMart's BTC Halving Celebration landing page.



About BitMart



BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1500+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in cryptos potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit its website, follow its Twitter or join its Telegram for updates, news and promotions.
Global Mineral Resources increase 26% to 60.1Mt: M&I: 32.51Mt grading 1.31% Li 2 O Inferred: 27.57Mt grading 1.24% Li 2 O

Updated Bandeira Mineral Resources of 41.9 Mt grading 1.35% Li 2 O M&I: 23.68Mt grading 1.34% Li 2 O Inferred 18.25Mt grading 1.37% Li 2 O



TORONTO, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lithium Ionic Corp. (TSXV: LTH; OTCQX: LTHCF; FSE: H3N) (Lithium Ionic or the Company), is pleased to report an updated NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate (MRE) for the Bandeira Lithium Project (Bandeira or the Project), located within the Lithium Valley in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The Lithium Valley is a unique geological belt that hosts a significant concentration of lithium-bearing pegmatites, which has emerged as a globally significant lithium producer. This new MRE increases the Companys global mineral resources by 26% to 60.1Mt.

The Bandeira property covers only approximately 158 hectares, or 1% of its large 14,182-hectare land package. Two other NI 43-101 compliant lithium MREs have been outlined on the Companys other regional properties, Salinas and Outro Lado, however the majority of its properties remain largely unexplored and represent significant future mineral growth potential for the Company.

Bandeira MRE Highlights:

Measured and Indicated (M&I) MRE of 23.68 million tonnes (Mt) at an average grade of 1.34% LiO, with an additional 18.25Mt of Inferred MRE grading 1.37% LiO, for a total of 41.93Mt*.

The updated Bandeira MRE significantly increases the Companys consolidated, global mineral resources to 60.1Mt.

Significant mineral growth in only ~24months: The MRE estimate is based on 233 drill holes, or 50,760 metres, drilled between April 2022 and March 2024.

Planned exploration programs at its existing deposits, Bandeira, Salinas and Outro Lado, as well as other regional targets, are expected to support continued mineral resource growth.

*See press release dated April 4, 2024, for details related to the Salinas MRE (effective date of January 4, 2024; QP: Leonardo Soares, P.Geo., M.Sc., of GE21), and the NI 43-101 compliant technical reports related to the Outro Lado deposit titled Mineral Resource Estimate for Lithium Ionic, Itinga Project (effective date of June 24, 2023; authored by Maxime Dupere, B. Sc., P.Geo. and Faisal Sayeed, B. Sc., P.Geo).

Blake Hylands, P.Geo., CEO of Lithium Ionic, commented, Following closely on the heels of our initial resource at Salinas announced last week, this is yet another significant increase to our global mineral resources, highlighting the impressive pace and scale at which we have been able to delineate lithium deposits in this region. I commend our exploration team for their dedication and exceptional effort, which have driven these excellent results. This latest MRE positions us among the largest scale projects in the region, and with a largely untapped land package we expect this growth momentum to continue, aligning with our goal of becoming a major contributor to the global lithium supply chain.

Carlos Costa, P.Geo., Lithium Ionics VP of Exploration, commented, Reflecting on the past two years since we started drilling at Bandeira, I am immensely proud of our teams accomplishments. Starting with just a few promising rock samples, we have now uncovered a significant mineral deposit and look forward to advancing Bandeira to the next stages of development.

Bandeira Lithium Project  Mineral Resource Update

The MRE update for Bandeira was prepared by GE21 Consultoria Mineral Ltda. (GE21) in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101).

Bandeira is located in the lithium-rich Aracuai Pegmatite District, in the northern part of the Eastern Brazilian Pegmatite Province, which hosts the largest lithium reserves in Brazil.

The updated MRE contains M&I resources of 23.68Mt grading 1.34% LiO, containing 783.0 thousand tonnes (kt) of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (LCE), the benchmark equivalent raw material used in the lithium industry, along with Inferred resources of 18.25Mt grading 1.37% LiO in the Inferred category, or 618.4kt of LCE (see MRE results in Table 1). The MRE is based on 233 diamond drill holes comprising 50,760 metres of drilling completed between April 2022 and March 2024.

GE21 collaborated closely with the Companys geological team to confirm the presence of a series of North-East trending moderately SE dipping pegmatite veins extending up to 1,000 meters along strike and from surface to a vertical depth of approximately 500 meters (see plan view of Bandeira in Figure 1 and an isometric view of the Bandeira deposit in Figure 2).

As press released on April 4, 2024, a Feasibility Study for Bandeira is currently being finalized by AtkinsRealis (formerly SNC-Lavalin) and is scheduled for completion in May 2024. Furthermore, the environmental license for Bandeira is expected to be granted in early Q3 2024.

The NI 43-101 technical report related to the Bandeira MRE, will be accessible on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Companys issuer profile and the Companys website within 45 days of this news release.

Table 1: Bandeira Mineral Resource Estimate Summary

Deposit /

Cut-Off Grade Category Resource

(Mt) Grade

(% Li2O) Contained LCE (kt) Bandeira

(0.5% cut-off)











Measured 3.32 1.38 113.1 Indicated 20.36 1.33 669.6 Measured + Indicated 23.68 1.34 783.0 Inferred 18.25 1.37 618.4

The spodumene pegmatite domains were modeled using composites with Li2O grades greater than 0.3% The mineral resource estimates were prepared in accordance with the CIM Standards, and the CIM Guidelines, using geostatistical and/or classical methods, plus economic and mining parameters appropriate to the deposit. Mineral Resources are not ore reserves and are not demonstrably economically recoverable. Grades reported using dry density. The effective date of the MRE is January 10, 2024. The QP responsible for the MRE is the geologist Carlos Silva (MAIG #7868). The MRE numbers provided have been rounded to the estimate relative precision. Values cannot be added due to rounding. The MRE is delimited by Lithium Ionic Bandeira Target Claims (ANM). The MRE was estimated using ordinary kriging in 12m x 12m x 4m blocks. The MRE report table was produced in Leapfrog Geo software. The reported MRE only contains fresh rock domains. The MRE was restricted by RPEEE with grade shell using 0.5% Li2O cut-off.

Figure 1. Bandeira Project Location

View Figure 1 here: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/28eb8f92-bd9d-4e17-99c4-eb9181d2fe5d

Figure 2. Isometric View of the Bandeira Deposit

View Figure 2 here: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0998a590-490a-45b0-8e67-51511f820da9

Details related to the calculation of the MRE

The MRE was prepared by Carlos Silva P.Geo., M.Sc., of GE21 (the Author or QP) with an effective date of January 10, 2024.

The MRE was prepared using the following geological and resource block modeling parameters which are based on geological interpretations, geostatistical studies, and best practices in mineral estimation.

The QP is not aware of any factors or issues that materially affect the MRE other than normal risks faced by mining projects in the province in terms of environmental, permitting, taxation, socio-economic, marketing, and political factors, and additional risk factors regarding inferred resources.

The Project geology comprises Neoproterozoic age sedimentary rocks of Aracuai Orogen intruded by fertile Li-bearing pegmatites originated by fractionation of magmatic fluids from the peraluminous S-type post-tectonic granitoids of Aracuai Orogen. Lithium mineralization is related to concordant and discordant swarms of spodumene-bearing tabular pegmatites hosted by cordierite-biotite-quartz schists.

Drilling conducted by Lithium Ionic included diamond core drilling of NTW (64.2mm diameter).

Diamond core has been sampled in intervals of ~ 1 m where possible, otherwise intervals less than 1 m have been selected based on geological boundaries. Geological boundaries have not been crossed by sample intervals.  core samples have been collected and submitted for analysis, with regular field duplicate samples collected and submitted for QA/QC analysis.

Drill core samples were submitted to SGS Geosol laboratories in Brazil where they were analyzed for a 31-element suite via ICP90A (fusion by sodium peroxide and finish with ICP- MS/ICP-OES). Assay data were composited to 1 m.

The MRE was estimated from the diamond drill holes completed by Lithium Ionic from April 2022 until March 2024. Data from a total of 233 drill holes comprising 8,693 assays were included in the mineral resources model.

The 3D modelling of lithium Mineral Resources was conducted using a minimum cut-off grade of 0.3% Li 2 O within a preliminary lithological model.

O within a preliminary lithological model. The interpolation was conducted using Krigging methodology with three interpolation passes.

The block model was defined by a block size of 12 m long by 12m wide by 4 m thick and covers a strike length of approximately 1,200 m to a maximal vertical depth of 300 m below surface.

The MRE was classified as Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource based on data quality, sample spacing, and pegmatite continuity. The Measured Mineral Resource was defined using a search ellipsoid of 50 m by 50 m by 30 m, and where the continuity and predictability of the mineralized units was reasonable. The Indicated Mineral Resource was defined using a search ellipsoid 100 m by 100 m by 50 m. The Inferred Mineral Resource was assigned to areas where drill hole spacing was greater than 100 m by 100 m by 50 m for all remaining blocks.

Classification focused on spatial relation using a minimum of five composites in at least three different drill holes for the Measured and Indicated resources.

Validation has proven that the block model fairly reflects the underlying data inputs. Variability over distance is relatively moderate to low for this deposit type therefore the maximum classification level is Indicated.

Mineralization at the deposits extends to surface and is expected to be suitable for open cut mining; no minimum mining width was applied; internal mining dilution is limited to internal barren pegmatite and/or host rock intervals within the mineralized pegmatite intervals; based on these assumptions, it is considered that there are no mining factors which are likely to affect the assumption that the deposit has reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction.

It is the QPs opinion that the current classification used is adequate and reliable for this type of mineralization and MRE.

The MRE reported is a global estimate with reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Lithium Ionic Corp.

Blake Hylands

Chief Executive Officer, Director

About Lithium Ionic Corp.

Lithium Ionic is a Canadian mining company exploring and developing its lithium properties in Brazil. Its flagship Itinga and Salinas projects are located in the northeastern part of Minas Gerais state, a mining-friendly jurisdiction that is quickly emerging as a world-class hard-rock lithium district. The Itinga Project is situated in the same region as CBLs Cachoeira lithium mine, which has produced lithium for +30 years, as well as Sigma Lithium Corp.s Grota do Cirilo project, which hosts the largest hard-rock lithium deposit in the Americas.

Qualified Persons

Carlos Jose Evangelista Silva, MSc Geo. (MAIG membership number 7868), of GE21 is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information and data regarding the MRE included in this news release. Mr. Silva is independent of Lithium Ionic. All other scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Carlos Costa, Vice President Exploration of Lithium Ionic and Blake Hylands, CEO and director of Lithium Ionic, and both are qualified persons as defined in NI 43-101.

Investor and Media Inquiries:

+1 647.316.2500

info@lithiumionic.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute forward-statements. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Companys actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. 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. When used in this press release, the words estimate, project, belief, anticipate, intend, expect, plan, predict, may or should and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include information relating to the prospectivity of the Companys mineral properties including Salinas and Bandeira, the Companys ability to produce a NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate, PEA and/or Feasibility study and the timing thereof, the Companys ability to obtain the requisite licences and permits, the economic viability of the Bandeira project, the Companys ability to obtain adequate financing, the mineralization and development of the Companys mineral properties, the Companys exploration program and other mining projects and prospects thereof and the Companys future plans. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve 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. 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. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that managements beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

Information and links in this press release relating to other mineral resource companies are from their sources believed to be reliable, but that have not been independently verified by the Company.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Battery Storage Inverter Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028F" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global battery storage inverter market has garnered substantial momentum, with a valuation standing at USD 2.34 billion in 2022 and an expected robust growth trajectory forecasted through 2028. According to the latest analysis, the market is set to witness a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.94%.

Fueling Factors Behind Market Expansion

Enhancement in Energy Efficiency: With global efforts angled towards sustainable energy transitions, there is a rising need for storage solutions that marry efficiency with environmental responsibility. Battery storage inverters are poised to meet this need.

With global efforts angled towards sustainable energy transitions, there is a rising need for storage solutions that marry efficiency with environmental responsibility. Battery storage inverters are poised to meet this need. Grid Stability and Sustainability: As energy solutions lean into renewable sources, battery storage inverters solidify their place by enabling advanced management technologies and improved power conversion, thus facilitating a seamless integration with the grid.

As energy solutions lean into renewable sources, battery storage inverters solidify their place by enabling advanced management technologies and improved power conversion, thus facilitating a seamless integration with the grid. Technological Evolution: The digital transformation within the energy sector heralds a future where battery storage inverters interlink with smart technologies, enhancing system efficiency and reliability through intelligent control and analytics.

Dynamics by Segment: Three-Phase Power Rises to the Fore

The three-phase electric power segment is currently leading the global battery storage inverter market, driven by higher power handling capabilities, efficient energy distribution, and balanced power delivery, indispensably suited to meet the demands of commercial and industrial sectors.

Regional Market Dominance: Asia-Pacific Takes the Helm

Asia-Pacific emerges as the dominant force in the global battery storage inverter market, spurred by aggressive renewable energy deployments and supportive governmental policies. Furthermore, a burgeoning demand for energy storage illustrates the importance of having a reliable power supply, coupled with the technological leadership exhibited by manufacturers in the region.

Future Market Trends: Hybrid Systems Set the Pace

Innovative advancements, such as hybrid energy storage systems, are set to redefine the market landscape, combining different storage technologies to fulfill specific energy requisites. With an emphasis on cybersecurity in light of increased connectivity, manufacturers are also prioritizing robust protective measures to safeguard critical energy infrastructure.

Market Outlook

The global battery storage inverter market stands at a crucial juncture of growth and innovation, pivotal in shaping the energy landscape of the future. As the quest for enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and grid stability becomes increasingly acute, the market emerges as a catalyst for change, ensuring that energy storage technology keeps pace with the evolving global energy demands.

Industry Transformation and Competitive Edge

The market's competitive landscape is characterized by an array of companies vying to contribute to this rapid evolution. These players focus on implementing cutting-edge solutions, and strategic initiatives aimed at augmenting the efficiency and reliability of energy storage systems, thereby fostering enhanced global adoption. Carrying the potential to significantly influence myriad applications across the energy sector, the battery storage inverter market is poised to set a benchmark in the quest for renewable and efficient energy solutions, reinforcing its indispensable status within the global energy infrastructure.



Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 183 Forecast Period 2022 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $2.34 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $4.11 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.9% Regions Covered Global

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:

ABB Group

Schneider Electric

Siemens AG

Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

KACO New Energy GmbH:

Delta Electronics, Inc.

SMA Solar Technology AG

Ingeteam Power Technology, S.A.

Growatt New Energy Technology Co., Ltd

GoodWe Power Supply Technology Co., Ltd.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/o30569

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

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Dublin, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "MicroRNA Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028F" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





Global MicroRNA Market Exhibits Impressive Growth with a 12.20% CAGR through 2028

The comprehensive evaluation of the Global MicroRNA Market, covering industry size, share, trends, and forecasts up to the year 2028, delivers crucial insights into this burgeoning sector. As a pivotal component in gene regulation, microRNAs (miRNAs) have garnered substantial attention for their therapeutic and diagnostic potential across a plethora of health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Advancements Propel MicroRNA Research and Therapeutics The market has witnessed exponential growth, driven by advancements in genomic research and an intensified focus on biomarker discovery. With a discernible emphasis on personalized medicine, microRNAs are set to revolutionize diagnostics and targeted treatments in oncology and beyond. The industry's forward momentum can be attributed to the deepening understanding of microRNA mechanisms and the expanding role of RNA-based therapies in precision medicine. Emerging Trends and Key Drivers in the MicroRNA Ecosystem





Genomic research advancements, including high-throughput sequencing technologies like NGS, have substantially pushed the boundaries of microRNA analysis, enhancing genomic databases and prediction tools.

The quest for effective biomarkers has positioned microRNAs as a cornerstone for early disease detection, prognosis, and monitoring therapeutic outcomes, bolstering their implementation in personalized healthcare strategies.

The surge in RNA therapeutics development, leveraging the specificity of microRNA mechanisms, stands at the forefront, promising targeted gene regulation innovations.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations in MicroRNA Applications The path to mainstream clinical adoption is not without hurdles. Standardization of analytical platforms and data interpretation presents significant challenges, necessitating industry-wide consensus on protocols and data reporting criteria. Ethical and privacy concerns regarding the potential misuse of genetic information, data security, and patient consent are paramount, expected to shape regulatory and operational frameworks moving forward. Market Segmentation Reveals Diverse Opportunities



With service offerings displaying the largest share, businesses operate in an environment ripe for outsourcing specialized microRNA research and development tasks. The cancer segment, notably, continues to command considerable market presence due to microRNAs' potential to detect and manage various cancer types. Notably, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies emerge as critical end-users, translating research into innovative therapies and diagnostic tools. Regional Analysis Highlights North America's Market Dominance North America leads the charge, capitalizing on a sophisticated research infrastructure, an abundance of funding opportunities, and prolific biotechnology ventures. The region's preeminence in microRNA-related product and service market segments illustrates a keen commitment to fostering innovation and bolstering healthcare outcomes through microRNA technology. The report underscores the dynamic nature of the Global MicroRNA Market, with in-depth analysis of product and service advancements, applications in critical healthcare sectors, end-user contributions, and geographical influences on market trajectories. For comprehensive industry insights and opportunities within the Global MicroRNA Market, interested parties are advised to delve into the detailed survey, which encapsulates the market's current state and anticipates future trends up to 2028.



Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 190 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $1.54 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $3.01 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 12.2% Regions Covered Global





A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:





Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

Horizon Discovery Ltd.

OriGene Technologies, Inc.

QIAGEN

GeneCopoeia, Inc.

Merck KGaA

Miltenyi Biotec

Sistemic Scotland Limited

SeqMatic LLC

Biodynamics Laboratory Inc.





For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/sv1auu

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.
SEPT-ILES, Quebec, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Facing unacceptable concession demands from their employer  the Societe ferroviaire et portuaire de Pointe-Noire (SFPPN)  members of the Syndicat des Metallos/United Steelworkers union (USW) have voted by a 99.4% majority in favour of strike action, if necessary, in their efforts to negotiate a new collective agreement.



The members of USW Local 6254 work at SFPPNs railway and port operations. They handle and unload iron ore shipped by rail over hundreds of kilometres from the Lac Bloom mine to a deep-water port in Sept-Iles.

The companys demands for concessions from the workers are unnecessary and appear to be ideologically driven, said USW Local 6254 President Clement Gonthier.

Given the economic situation and labour shortages, this is a time to improve working conditions, not to try to impose concessions, Gonthier said.

But the employer persists in demanding major changes to our seniority rights and our process for promotions, which runs counter to our collective agreement. This is purely ideological on the employers part, he added.

Union members gave their bargaining committee the overwhelming strike mandate on Wednesday. A provincial conciliator assigned to assist in the negotiations was then informed of the vote results. Conciliation sessions are scheduled to resume during the week of April 22.

Were weighing our options, said USW staff representative Marc Tremblay.

One thing is certain: the members have delivered a very clear message with their rejection of the employers proposals. Theyre ready to go on strike to counter these demands for concessions, Tremblay said.

We have a responsibility to the families of our 199 members, but we dont sense the same commitment from the employer, who seems to be focused on only one thing  to gear up for a dispute.

The USW/Syndicat des Metallos, affiliated with the Quebec Federation of Labour, is the largest private-sector union in Quebec, representing more than 60,000 workers in all sectors of the economy.

For further information: Clairandree Cauchy, 514-774-4001, ccauchy@metallos.ca
Burlingame, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Market Insights published a report, titled, Global Machine Condition Monitoring Market, By Offerings (Hardware (Vibration Sensors, Infrared Sensors, Spectrometers, Corrosion Probes, Ultrasound Detectors, Spectrum Analyzers), Software, and Services), By Deployment (Cloud and On-premises), By End-use Industry (Automotive, Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Chemicals , Metals and Mining, Aerospace and Defense, Food and Beverages, and Others), and By Geography: Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2024-2031. According to the report, the global machine condition monitoring market was valued at $3.33 billion in 2024, and is estimated to reach $5.92 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8.6% from 2024 to 2031



Request Sample Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/5165

Market Dynamics:

The growth of the Machine Condition Monitoring Market is being primarily driven by the increasing adoption of predictive maintenance practices by various industries. Predictive maintenance helps in reducing machine downtime, optimizing maintenance schedules, and minimizing overall operational costs. Additionally, the growing focus on equipment efficiency and performance optimization is further fueling the demand for machine condition monitoring solutions.

Machine Condition Monitoring Market Report Coverage

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2024 $3.33 billion Estimated Value by 2031 $5.92 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 8.6% Historical Data 20192023 Forecast Period 20242031 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Offerings, By Deployment, By End-use Industry Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Growth Drivers  Improving Operational Efficiency and Preventing Unplanned Downtime



 Ensuring Personnel and Workplace Safety Restraints & Challenges  Limited Technology Adoption



 High Implementation Costs

Market Trends:

One of the key trends observed in the Machine Condition Monitoring Market is the integration of advanced technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) in condition monitoring systems. These technologies enable real-time monitoring, data analytics, and predictive maintenance, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the equipment.

Another trend shaping the market is the rising popularity of wireless condition monitoring systems. These systems offer flexibility, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness, making them increasingly preferred by end-users across various industries.

Buy this Complete Business Research Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/5165

Market Opportunities:

The automotive industry is witnessing a surge in demand for machine condition monitoring solutions to ensure the smooth functioning of critical machinery and prevent unexpected breakdowns. With the increasing complexity of vehicles and the growing emphasis on automation, the need for real-time monitoring of machine health is becoming paramount. Vibration sensors and infrared sensors are among the key offerings in this segment, with spectrometers dominating the hardware subsegment.

The oil and gas industry is increasingly adopting machine condition monitoring solutions to optimize operational efficiency and prevent costly downtime. With the need to monitor the health of critical equipment such as pumps, compressors, and turbines, the demand for sophisticated monitoring tools is on the rise. Spectrometers, corrosion probes, and ultrasound detectors are key hardware offerings in this segment, with cloud deployment dominating the market.

Key Developments:

In February 2023, Seed Group partnered with Samotics which is a Condition monitoring system to introduce condition monitoring services in the Middle East using SAM4 technology.

In June 2022, Watersight introduced AquaRing for real-time monitoring of water conditions in the water, utility, and food and beverage sectors.

Key Market Takeaways:

Machine Condition Monitoring is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period 2024-2030, owing to the increasing focus on predictive maintenance and the growing adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies.

On the basis of offerings, spectrometers are expected to dominate the hardware segment, while cloud deployment is expected to lead the market.

In terms of end-use industries, the automotive sector is expected to hold a dominant position.

North America is projected to lead the market in terms of region.

Key players operating in the machine condition monitoring market include Advanced Technology Services, Inc., Allied Reliability, Analog Devices Inc., Baker Hughes Company, and Crystal Instruments. These players are focusing on innovation and strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Get 10% Customization on this Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/5165

Market Segmentation

By Offerings:

Hardware Vibration Sensors Infrared Sensors Spectrometers Corrosion Probes Ultrasound Detectors Spectrum Analyzers

Software

Services



By Deployment:

Cloud

On-premises

By End-use Industry:

Automotive

Oil and Gas

Power Generation

Chemicals

Metals and Mining

Aerospace and Defense

Food and Beverages

Others

By Regional:

North America U.S. Canada

Latin America Brazil Mexico Rest of Latin America

Europe Germany U.K. Spain France Italy Russia Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific China India Japan Australia South Korea Rest of Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa South Africa GCC Countries Rest of Middle East & Africa



Related Reports:

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Automotive Embedded Systems Market, By Product Type (Embedded Hardware, Embedded Software), By Component (Sensors, Microcontroller Unit (MCU), Transceivers, Circuits), Based on Vehicle Type, the market is segmented into Internal Combustion Engines (Diesel and Gasoline Vehicles), Integrated Electric Vehicles (BEV, HEV, and PHEV), Based on Application, the market is segmented into (Electricals and Electronics, Infotainment and Telematics, Powertrain and Chassis, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)and by Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East and Africa)

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About Us:

Coherent Market Insights is a global market intelligence and consulting organization that provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. We are known for our actionable insights and authentic reports in various domains including aerospace and defense, agriculture, food and beverages, automotive, chemicals and materials, and virtually all domains and an exhaustive list of sub-domains under the sun. We create value for clients through our highly reliable and accurate reports. We are also committed in playing a leading role in offering insights in various sectors post-COVID-19 and continue to deliver measurable, sustainable results for our clients.
SAN FRANCISCO, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tatari , a leading platform for buying and measuring advertising across convergent TV, today announced that it has dramatically grown agency adoption of its platform, allowing them to plan, buy, and measure TV ad campaigns for their clients.



Agencies currently have limited choices if they want to offer TV advertising to their clients. One option is to work with a demand side platform (DSP), but this is limited to only accessing CTV at high CPMs through programmatic buying. The other options are to work with linear networks and streaming publishers directly, but ad agencies are left with fragmented data, and worse, cannot provide closed-loop attribution that proves real outcomes (purchases, installs, etc) from campaigns.

Since announcing the availability for agencies to license Tatari 18 months ago , more than 30 agencies have signed on, with 40% buying into additional services. This uptick in platform adoption aligns with digital agencies' desire to offer other customer acquisition channels beyond social and search, and for TV media buying agencies to buy and measure TV based on outcomes .

The majority of Tataris agency partners are taking advantage of Tataris convergent TV capabilities. More than 80% of the agency-driven campaigns are truly embracing the concept of convergent TV through a blend of CTV, cable and broadcast television.

"Tatari is at the forefront of TVs evolution with the only self-serve platform that is truly TV Everywhere, said Christine Price, Associate Media Director at Marcus Thomas . The Tatari campaign manager offers linear and CTV/OTT buying ease with efficiency, scale, transparency, and attribution to match your clients KPIs. This is where TV was meant to be."

Meanwhile, Tatari has seen a 191% year-over-year increase in streaming and 341% increase in programmatic spending, highlighting a broader trend of taking performance-driven approaches beyond social into convergent TV.

Digitally-native agencies helped ignite a direct-to-consumer revolution that relied heavily on social media and programmatic advertising, but as those channels get more competitive, agencies and their brands are looking for new performance opportunities, said Mike Fogarty, Head of Agency Partnerships of Tatari. Unlike any other technology or DSP offering in the market, Tatari not only offers agencies with CTV capabilities, but also linear TV inventory, as well as measurement. The Tatari technology stack allows our new agency clients to both expand their offering to brands, as well drive agency revenue.

"If you want to buy and measure performance TV in a way that drives results, aligns with clients digital media efforts, and is easy for media buyers to learn, Tatari rose above the rest as the best TV ad platform for our agency, said Tihomir Liptak, CEO of Bodhi . Our partnership with Tatari has unlocked a significant growth opportunity for our clients as we scale into TV audiences to build an effective media mix while testing and learning just like our digital efforts. Clients love us bringing a modern approach to TV buying, we love de-risking our digital spend, and everyone loves how Tatari delivers measurable key outcomes."

About Tatari

Tatari is building the infrastructure to modernize TV advertising for Brands, Agencies, and Publishers. Clients include Calm, Daily Harvest, Wpromote, and Fubo. Recognized in 2023 by AdExchanger as the Most Innovative TV Ad Technology and by Business Insider as one of the Hottest Ad Tech Companies , Tatari is headquartered in San Francisco with offices in Los Angeles, and New York. For additional information, please visit tatari.tv .

Media contact:

Press@Tatari.tv
WHITEHORSE, Yukon, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With the support of the United Steelworkers union (USW) and the Yukon Federation of Labour, workers at Parsons Inc. at the Faro Rehabilitation Mine Project have been certified by the Canadian Industrial Relations Board to join the USW. The workers are set to begin the process of negotiating for better working conditions, fair wages and improved treatment from their employer.



The decision by workers at Parsons Inc. to unionize marks a new chapter in their journey towards justice, equality and improved working conditions, and is a testament to their unity and determination, said Chad Sedrovic, USW organizer.

This effort sets an inspiring example for other workers facing similar struggles, demonstrating that with unity and determination, positive change is not only possible but achievable. These workers deserve fair wages in accordance with industry standards in the Yukon and they need a safe worksite and protection from bullying and harassment, said Sedrovic.

Currently, approximately 70 employees are working on the Faro water remediation program at Parsons Inc. They play a crucial role in treating the water and surrounding area of the abandoned Faro mine site.

Its been very troubling to see some of the practices occurring at the site and frankly we were tired of having our questions ignored or dismissed, and being given excuse after excuse of why things cant change, said Stan Whittaker, new USW member at Parsons Inc.

People up here need help and we need a voice and a good union to make ourselves heard. Corporate profits should never supersede workers rights to a fair work environment, or being able to ensure corners arent cut to get the job done. At the end of the day, we want to make sure Parsons cant change the rules based on favouritism or favours and to ensure all employees are given the same rights and opportunities. We are looking for fair standard wages, better treatment and industry standards for this type of work, added Whittaker.

Workers at Parsons are in the process of cleaning large amounts of water and restoring land desolated by mining operations so that it can one day be returned, pristine and uncontaminated, to Indigenous communities.

This victory will not only benefit the workers at Parsons Inc., but it also is an example for other workers facing similar challenges in the Yukon and across Canada, said Scott Lunny, USW Director for Western Canada and the Territories.

By joining our union, these workers are showing that with solidarity and determination, they can stand up for their rights to make positive changes in their workplaces. Our union looks forward to supporting these workers in advocating for their rights and ensuring their voices are heard. We hope a first collective agreement that respects and recognizes the work they do can be reached quickly, said Lunny.

The USW represents 225,000 members in nearly every economic sector across Canada and is the largest private-sector union in North America, with 850,000 members in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean.

Each year, thousands of workers choose to join the USW because of our strong track record in creating healthier, safer and more respectful workplaces and negotiating better working conditions and fairer compensation  including good wages, benefits and pensions.

Workers who are interested in joining the USW should visit betterworknow.ca for more information.

For more information:

Scott Lunny, USW Director for Western Canada, 604-329-5308, slunny@usw.ca

Chad Sedrovic, USW Organizer, 250-430-7280, csedrovic@usw.ca

Brett Barden, USW Communications, 604-445-6956, bbarden@usw.ca

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a4590579-c028-48ac-96eb-adc6069b275c
Islandia, NY and Smithtown, NY, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Long Island Home Builders Care, Inc. (LIHBC), a 501c3 organization that was formed by a group of Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI) members approximately 30 years ago, is proud to announce a partnership with the Guide Dog Foundation and Americas VetDogs, two sister national nonprofit organizations, based in Smithtown, NY, that train and place highly trained guide and service dogs with individuals with disabilities, free of charge. LIHBC, in conjunction with LIBI members J. Ratto Landscaping, Ltd., Young Equipment, Hy-Grade Contractors Corp., and others, are undertaking two projects to support the organizations:

Backyard Dog Dens: led by Joseph Persico and Hy-Grade Contractors, Corp., LIHBC built custom backyard dog dens for two Americas Vet Dogs program graduates and their service dogs. The new personalized structures will be placed in the backyards of Nathan, an Air Force veteran from Suffolk County, for his service dog, Kenzo, and Frank, a Navy veteran from Nassau County, for his service dog, Juliet. The dog dens will provide a special place for the service dogs to relax when each family is spending time together in their backyards. An additional dog den has been built and will be installed on the campus of America's VetDogs and the Guide Dog Foundation in Smithtown, New York.

Service and Guide Dog-in-Training Enrichment Area: led by J. Ratto Landscaping, Hy-Grade, and Young Equipment, LIHBC will create a new dog enrichment play area adjacent to the Guide Dog Foundation and Americas VetDogs Training Center in Smithtown. The project will include grading the area for proper drainage, installing new grass turf and landscaping, and the construction of a dog agility playground. In addition to donating their time, talent, and services, LIHBC and Young Equipment are each donating $2,000 for a total of $4,000 for the purchase of commercial-grade dog playground equipment. The play area is expected to be completed in early summer.

"LIHBC is so excited to be teaming up with America's VetDogs and the Guide Dog Foundation to donate backyard dog dens to our local veterans and their service dogs, as well as donating park equipment for the upcoming exercise park for future guide and service dogs. We love finding new and creative ways to give back to our community, said John Ratto, president, and Lois Fricke, operations director, Long Island Home Builders Care, Inc.

The backyard dog dens were presented to the Americas VetDogs program graduates during a special event held during the Long Island Builders Expo on Thursday, April 11th at the Long Island Hilton in Melville. More than 100 exhibitors showcased the newest and best products for home building and remodeling. Officials from municipalities across Long Island were also on-hand to answer questions and guide homeowners with current or future projects.

We are grateful to John Ratto, Lois Fricke and all the contributing members of LIHBC and LIBI for their generosity, especially for the support of Nathan and Kenzo, Frank and Juliet, and their families, said John Miller, president and CEO, Guide Dog Foundation and Americas VetDogs. The new play area will be a welcome enhancement to our enrichment program and help prepare our future guide and service dogs for success when theyve completed their training and are placed with a veteran, first responder, or individual who is blind or has low vision. We are excited to cut the ribbon on this new area later in the year.

About Long Island Home Builders Care, Inc.

Long Island Home Builders Care, Inc. (LIHBC) is a 501 (C)(3) non-profit organization, was formed over 30 years ago to give back to the Long Island community. LIHBC, Inc., has undertaken numerous projects such as handicap renovations and repairs, affordable new homes with Habitat for Humanity Builders Blitz, adopted a shelter for the holidays, food drives and toy drives are just a few of the worthwhile causes taken on. Currently LIHBC, Inc., has been awarding LIBI members and their employees children and grandchildren the opportunity for a college scholarship. Two scholarships are awarded annually. Learn more at www.LIHBC.org.

About Americas VetDogs

For 20 years, Americas VetDogs (www.VetDogs.org) has trained and placed guide and service dogs to provide independence, enhanced mobility, and companionship to veterans with disabilities from all eras. In 2015, Americas VetDogs opened its programs to first responders, including fire, police, and emergency medical personnel. Americas VetDogs is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization founded by the Guide Dog Foundation and serves clients from across the United States. Americas VetDogs relies on contributions from generous individuals, corporations, service clubs, and foundations to fund its mission to help those who have served our country live with dignity and independence. It costs more than $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog, but Americas VetDogs provides its services completely free of charge to the individual. Americas VetDogs has been accredited by both the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International.

About Guide Dog Foundation

For more than 75 years, the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Inc. (www.GuideDog.org), has trained and placed guide and service dogs to provide independence, enhanced mobility, and companionship to people who are blind, have low vision, or have other special needs. The Guide Dog Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization serving clients from across the United States and Canada. The Foundation relies on contributions from generous individuals, corporations, service clubs, and foundations to fund its mission to serve people with disabilities. It costs over $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog, but the Guide Dog Foundation provides its services completely free of charge to the individual. Its sister organization, Americas VetDogs, trains and provides guide, service, and hearing dogs for disabled veterans and first responders. The Guide Dog Foundation was the first assistance dog school in the United States to be accredited by both the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International.

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Greenridge Exploration Inc. (Greenridge or the Company) (CSE: GXP | FRA: HW3), is pleased to announce that it has re-engaged the marketing services of MIC Marketing Information & Content Publishing GmbH (MIC) (address: Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 49b 51379 Leverkusen, Germany; email: contact@micpublishing.de) by entering into an agreement for MIC to provide marketing services for a duration of 6 months, commencing on April 18, 2024 (the MIC Agreement). MIC was originally retained by the Company on January 9, 2024 to provide marketing services.



Under the terms of the MIC Agreement, the Company will compensate MIC 250,000 during the Term. The Company will not issue any securities to MIC as compensation for the 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.

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 Marketing Services). The promotional activity will occur in Europe by email, Facebook, and Google.

About Greenridge Exploration Inc.

Greenridge Exploration Inc. (CSE: GXP | FRA: HW3) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to creating shareholder value through the acquisition, exploration, and development of critical mineral projects in North America. The Companys Nut Lake Uranium Project located in the Thelon Basin includes historical drilling which intersected up to 9ft of 0.69% U 3 O 8 including 4.90% U 3 O 8 over 1ft from 8ft depth. Additionally, the Companys Weyman Copper Project in southeast British Columbia sits on the south portion of the famous Quesnel Terrance. The Company is led by an experienced management team and board of directors with significant expertise in capital raising and advancing mining projects.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Russell Starr

Chief Executive Officer, Director

Telephone: +1 (778) 897-3388

Email: info@greenridge-exploration.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 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 provision of the Marketing Services by MIC under the MIC Agreement. 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 because 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.




TORONTO, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AnalytixInsight Inc. (AnalytixInsight, or the Company) (TSX-V: ALY) updates the market that recent disclosures of the Company have not been authorized by the Board of Directors of the Company (the Board). This press release was unanimously approved by a majority of the Board at a duly called and conducted meeting of the Board. As further described below, such Board meeting was attended by three of five directors, constituting a quorum of the Board.

The Board has given express directions in an effort to prevent further unauthorized communications from being made. The Board would also like to reassure stakeholders that the Company is committed to pursuing the interests of all stakeholders and that the performance of the Company is the Boards clearly identified focus at this time. To this end, the Board has, effective April 11, 2024, taken the following interim actions:

The Board has ratified and confirmed the appointment of Chaith Kondragunta as Chair of the Board. The Secretary of the Company, Aaron Atin, is no longer employed by the Company, effective immediately. The Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Natalie Hirsch, has been placed on paid administrative leave, effective immediately, with such leave to continue for the duration of a Board-led investigation into recent management issues. Special independent counsel to the Board has been appointed to assist the Board in addressing current governance issues and regularizing the affairs of the Company in the interests of all stakeholders. Two Board Committees have been mandated to investigate the management and governance issues alleged or identified through recent activities at the Company. In order to ensure that any potentially conflicted directors are excluded from specific investigations, the first committee consists of Chaith Kondragunta, Jith Veeravalli and Prakash Hariharan, while the second committee consists of Chaith Kondragunta and Jith Veeravalli.



The Board is not aware of any of other undisclosed material information. The Company will update stakeholders as appropriate.

As stated above, this press release was unanimously approved by the majority of the Board at a duly called and conducted meeting of the Board attended by three of five directors, constituting a quorum of the Board. The directors in attendance, who approved this release, were Chaith Kondragunta, Jith Veeravalli and Prakash Hariharan. The same directors unanimously approved the actions described above under items 1-5. Pursuant to Board policy, disclosure approval is the responsibility of the Board, not management.

The Board consists of the following directors Chaith Kondragunta (Chair of Board), Jith Veeravalli (Independent), Prakash Hariharan (Non-Independent), Vincent Kadar (Independent) and Scott Gardner (Independent). The Audit Committee continues to consist of Chaith Kondragunta (Chair of Board), Jith Veeravalli (Independent), and Vincent Kadar (Independent). Determinations of independence are made from time to time by the Board pursuant to National Instrument 52-110  Audit Committees.

The Board confirms, to its knowledge, the Company is in compliance with the management, Board and Audit Committee requirements of TSX-V Policy 3.1. While the Board has taken clear steps to try to ensure proper disclosure policies are implemented during this period of transition, the first Special Committee anticipates investigating, among other things, whether press releases purported to have been authorized by management and the two minority directors since April 5, 2024, have breached Section 9.3 of TSX-V Policy 3.1. Subject to the findings of that investigation, reports to regulatory authorities may become necessary.

Management of the Company currently consists of Chaith Kondragunta (Chair of the Board and Secretary) and Jonathan Dwek (Chief Financial Officer), together with Natalie Hirsch (Interim President and Chief Executive Officer) who, as described above, has been placed on paid administrative leave.

The news release is available under the Companys SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Contact Information:

Name: Chaith Kondragunta

Title: Chair of the Board

Email: chaith_k@yahoo.com

Tel: 647-955-2933



About AnalytixInsight Inc.

AnalytixInsight is a data analytics and enterprise software solutions provider. AnalytixInsight develops and markets cloud-based platforms providing financial content, company analysis and stock research solutions to the financial services industry. AnalytixInsight holds a 49% interest in MarketWall S.R.L., a developer of fintech solutions for financial institutions in Italy.

Regulatory Statements

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
VANCOUVER, BC, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sierra Grande Minerals Inc. (the "Company") (CSE: SGRO) is pleased to announce that it has appointed Buckley Dodds CPA, as independent auditor of the Company, effective as of April 12, 2024 (the "Successor Auditor").

The Successor Auditor is being appointed upon the Company requesting Dale Matheson Carr-Hilton Labonte LLP (the ""Former Auditor") resign as auditor effective April 11, 2024.

The board of directors of the Company appointed the Successor Auditor as the new auditor until the next Annual General Meeting of the Company.

There are no reportable events between the Company and the Former Auditors.

The Notice of Change of Auditors, together with the letter from the Former Auditors and the letter from the Successor Auditors, have been reviewed by the Company's Board of Directors.

The Company has sent a Notice of Change of Auditor (the "Notice") to the Former Auditor and to the Successor Auditor and has received a letter from each, addressed to the securities commissions in each of British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario stating that they agree with the information contained in the Notice. The Notice, together with the letters from the Former Auditor and the Successor Auditor are available on www.SEDAR.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Sonny Janda

Sonny Janda, CEO

info@sierragrowth.com




Vancouver, April 11, 2024 - Global Energy Metals Corp. TSXV:GEMC | OTCQB:GBLEF | FSE:5GE1 ("Global Energy Metals", the "Company" and/or "GEMC"), a multi-jurisdictional, multi-commodity critical mineral exploration, development and project generating company focused on growth-oriented projects supporting the global transition to clean energy, announces that CEO Mitchell Smith joined Steve Darling from Proactive to unveil an ambitious exploration strategy slated for the summer of 2024 at its Monument Peak Copper-Silver-Gold Project (the "Project" and/or "Monument Peak") in Lemhi County, Idaho, United States.

Highlights

Monument Peak, consisting of 84 claims, is an exploration-staged, high-grade, copper-silver-gold project in Idaho, a state that consistently ranks as a top mining jurisdiction by the Fraser Institute,

Following a reinterpretation of both historical and more recent data, including field work conducted by Dahrouge Geological Consulting USA Ltd., a new geological model has been proposed and warrants further investigation,

Monument Peak hosts a similar style of mineralization as other large strata-bound sedimentary copper, silver, gold deposits found in the Western Montana Copper Belt which extends into Idaho,

A past exploration field program conducted by DGC resulted in rock samples that ranged up to 5.61% Cu, 175 g/t Ag, 17.6 g/t Au; the samples returned an arithmetic average of 2.18% Cu, 63 g/t Ag, 3.65 g/t Au,

Spring/Summer exploration plans designed to refine our exploration targets and further evaluate the economic potential of the identified mineral zones,

Updated project specific presentation filed on the Monument Peak landing page of the Company's website.

To watch the Proactive video interview where Smith highlights the significance of the reinterpretation of Monument Peak and how advancing the Project fits with the Company's overall strategy of providing shareholder exposure to strategic minerals like copper, silver and gold please click here.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1. Monument Peak hosts a similar style of mineralization as other large strata-bound sedimentary copper silver deposits found in the Western Montana Copper Belt which extends into Idaho.

Monument Peak, encompassing 84 claims, stands as a promising exploration endeavor characterized by its high-grade copper-silver-gold potential in a region renowned for its mining prospects. Highlighting a re-evaluation of historical and contemporary data, including insights gleaned from fieldwork conducted by Dahrouge Geological Consulting, the company revealed a compelling new geological model that merits further scrutiny.

Full details of the reinterpretation and proposed summer program for Monument Peak can be found on the Company's website in a news release issued earlier in the day.

April 11, 2024: Global Energy Metals Provides Update on Monument Peak Copper, Silver, Gold Project in Idaho; Outlines Summer Exploration Strategy

Smith elaborated to Proactive on the rationale behind the exploration strategy, citing parallels between the geological characteristics of the Monument Peak area and the Western Montana Copper Belt following a re-interpetation of data by Dahrouge Geological Consulting, a joint-partner in Monument Peak. Recognizing these similarities in the style and age of copper and silver mineralization, Global Energy Metals, aims to validate the grades, thickness, and mineralization style at Monument Peak ahead of drilling activities. The upcoming spring/summer exploration campaign will entail a comprehensive surface mapping initiative, augmented by the systematic collection of additional rock samples informed by previous reconnaissance efforts.

This planned approach seeks to refine exploration targets and enhance the understanding of the economic viability of the identified mineral zones. By leveraging advanced geological insights and employing a methodical exploration methodology, Global Energy Metals endeavors to unlock the full potential of the Monument Peak project.

Global Energy Metals has a diversified portfolio of exploration and growth-stage battery mineral assets, offering investors exposure to the growing rechargeable battery and electric vehicle market.



Click Image To View Full Size

For more information on Monument Peak, please refer to a recently updated project presentation filed on the Company's website.

Qualified Person

Mr. Paul Sarjeant, P. Geo., is the qualified person for this release as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. He is a shareholder and Director of the Company.

For Further Information:

Global Energy Metals Corp.

#1501-128 West Pender Street

Vancouver, BC, V6B 1R8

Email: info@globalenergymetals.com

t. + 1 (604) 688-4219

www.globalenergymetals.com

Twitter: @EnergyMetals | @USBatteryMetals | @ElementMinerals

Global Energy Metals Corp.

(TSXV:GEMC | OTCQB:GBLEF | FSE:5GE1)

Global Energy Metals Corp. offers investment exposure to the growing rechargeable battery and electric vehicle market by building a diversified global portfolio of exploration and growth-stage battery mineral assets.

Global Energy Metals recognizes that the proliferation and growth of the electrified economy in the coming decades is underpinned by the availability of battery metals, including cobalt, nickel, copper, lithium and other raw materials. To be part of the solution and respond to this electrification movement, Global Energy Metals has taken a 'consolidate, partner and invest' approach and in doing so have assembled and are advancing a portfolio of strategically significant investments in battery metal resources.

As demonstrated with the Company's current copper, nickel and cobalt projects in Canada, Australia, Norway and the United States, GEMC is investing-in, exploring and developing prospective, scaleable assets in established mining and processing jurisdictions in close proximity to end-use markets. Global Energy Metals is targeting projects with low logistics and processing risks, so that they can be fast tracked to enter the supply chain in this cycle. The Company is also collaborating with industry peers to strengthen its exposure to these critical commodities and the associated technologies required for a cleaner future.

Securing exposure to these critical minerals powering the eMobility revolution is a generational investment opportunity. Global Energy Metals believes Now is the Time to be part of this electrification movement.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information:

Certain information in this release may constitute forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws and necessarily involve risks associated with regulatory approvals and timelines. Although Global Energy Metals 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. Except as required by law, 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.

GEMC's operations could be significantly adversely affected by the effects of a widespread global outbreak of a contagious disease, including the recent outbreak of illness caused by COVID-19. It is not possible to accurately predict the impact COVID-19 will have on operations and the ability of others to meet their obligations, including uncertainties relating to the ultimate geographic spread of the virus, the severity of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, and the length of travel and quarantine restrictions imposed by governments of affected countries. In addition, a significant outbreak of contagious diseases in the human population could result in a widespread health crisis that could adversely affect the economies and financial markets of many countries, resulting in an economic downturn that could further affect operations and the ability to finance its operations.

For more information on Global Energy and the risks and challenges of their businesses, investors should review the filings that are available at www.sedar.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 adequacy or accuracy of this release.

We seek safe harbour.


ULAANBAATAR, April 11, 2024 - Steppe Gold Ltd. (TSX: STGO) (OTCQX: STPGF) (FSE: 2J9) ("Steppe Gold") is pleased to announce that, further to its press releases dated January 22, 2024 and March 19, 2024, it has entered into a share exchange agreement (the "Share Exchange Agreement") pursuant to which Steppe Gold will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares (the "BG Common Shares") of Boroo Gold LLC ("Boroo Gold") from an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Boroo Pte Ltd. ("Boroo Singapore") in an all-share transaction (the "Boroo Gold Transaction").



Additionally, pursuant to separate definitive share purchase agreements (the "Share Purchase Agreements"), each between one of Steppe Gold's wholly-owned subsidiaries, on the one hand, and Boroo Singapore or one of its affiliates, on the other hand, each dated April 11, 2024, Steppe Gold will sell the Tres Cruces Oxide Project (the "Tres Cruces Project") to Boroo Singapore for approximately CAD$12 million in cash (the "Tres Cruces Transaction") payable over the next 18 months beginning as of the Closing Date (as defined in the Share Purchase Agreements).

Highlights

The Boroo Gold Transaction will create Mongolia's leading gold producer Acquisition of a leading gold producer, Boroo Gold, will create Mongolia's leading gold producer Boroo Singapore will hold approximately 55.9% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Steppe Gold ("Steppe Common Shares") on a fully diluted basis, immediately following the completion of the Boroo Gold Transaction

Immediate and strong cash flows to Steppe Gold Boroo Gold estimates over 400,000 oz of gold production from 2024 to 2031, with projected average annual production of approximately 60,000 oz in 2024, 2025 and 2026 In 2023, Boroo Gold had revenue of US$132 million on production of 67,315 oz of gold, with an AISC of $847 per oz, at an average achieved gold price of $1,957 per oz Boroo Gold is forecasting similar production levels in 2024, albeit with higher sustaining costs

Long standing and strong social license The Boroo gold mine comes with a long and proud history of positive impact in Mongolia: Over US$1,020 million in benefits to Mongolia since 2003 (taxes and fees, CAPEX, donations, payments to local companies for goods and services and salaries to national employees) Over US$17.5 million in donations and investments in local Soums between 2007 and 2023 under its framework of social responsibility

Steppe Gold combined gold production in 2024 projected to be 90,000 oz, rising to an estimated annualized 150,000 oz in 2026 as the ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion is planned to come on stream in mid-2026

Significant value upside from: Potential cost synergies from combined purchasing power and lower relative administration costs Increasing Reserves and Resources near the existing mines

Divestment of the Tres Cruces Project to the likely highest value buyer, returning Steppe Gold's singular focus to Mongolia

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and CEO of Steppe Gold, commented: "We are very pleased to announce the agreement to acquire Boroo Gold. This transaction accelerates our path to a multi-asset Mongolia-focused mining group and, importantly, immediately provides strong cash flow to support our growth plans, further improved with the recent strong gold prices. In connection with the completion of this transaction we expect to finish 2024 with a run rate of around 90,000 oz in gold production, moving to over 150,000 oz in 2026 on a pro forma basis. We have also decided to divest the Tres Cruces Project to further improve our liquidity and sharpen our focus on Mongolia."

Boroo Gold Transaction Details

Share Exchange Agreement

Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, Steppe Gold will acquire all of the BG Common Shares in consideration for the issuance by Steppe Gold of 138,150,000 Steppe Common Shares, or that number of Steppe Common Shares that results in Boroo Singapore, directly or indirectly, holding 55.9% of the issued and outstanding Steppe Common Shares (calculated on a fully-diluted basis) upon completion of the Boroo Gold Transaction. Steppe Gold will seek approval for the issuance of Steppe Common Shares in connection with the Boroo Gold Transaction at Steppe Gold's annual general and special meeting of shareholders (the "Meeting"), which is expected to be held in June 2024.

The Boroo Gold Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of approval by Steppe Gold's shareholders at the Meeting, and certain regulatory approvals, including the approvals of the Toronto Stock Exchange and applicable Mongolian authorities. Additionally, it is a condition to the closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction that the Tres Cruces Transaction has closed.

All of the directors and executive officers of Steppe Gold have entered into support and voting agreements pursuant to which they have agreed to support the Boroo Gold Transaction and to vote in favour of the Boroo Gold Transaction, subject to the provisions of such support and voting agreements.

The Share Exchange Agreement includes customary representations, warranties and covenants, including with respect to non-solicitation of alternative transactions, a right to match superior proposals and a fiduciary out in respect of the same. In addition, each of Boroo Singapore and Steppe Gold have agreed to pay a termination fee if the Share Exchange Agreement is terminated upon the occurrence of certain events.

Further details with respect to the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction will be included in the information circular to be mailed to Steppe Gold's shareholders in connection with the Meeting. Provided all conditions precedent in the Share Exchange Agreement are satisfied or waived in a timely manner (including the closing of the Tres Cruces Transaction), it is currently anticipated that the Boroo Gold Transaction will close in the third quarter of 2024. A copy of the Share Exchange Agreement, the Share Purchase Agreements and the information circular in respect of the Meeting will be filed on Steppe Gold's SEDAR+ profile and will be available for viewing at www.sedarplus.ca.

Investor Rights Agreement

At the closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction, Steppe Gold will enter into an investor rights agreement with Boroo Singapore (the "Investor Rights Agreement"). Pursuant to the Investor Rights Agreement, Boroo Singapore will have the right to nominate up to two directors (the "Boroo Nominees") to the board of directors of Steppe Gold (the "Steppe Board"), subject to Boroo Singapore maintaining ownership of at least 10% of the issued and outstanding Steppe Common Shares, and other terms and conditions as further set forth in the Investor Rights Agreement. In addition, Boroo Singapore will be provided with certain governance rights, so long as it maintains certain Steppe Common Share ownership thresholds, including pre-emptive rights and customary registration rights. The key executive management team of Steppe Gold will remain in place following closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction.

Expected Management Team on Closing

Bataa Tumur-Ochir (Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) Tserenbadam Duger (Chief Operating Officer) Jeremy South (SVP and Chief Financial Officer) Byambatseren Tsogbadrakh (President & Vice President, Finance)

Benefits of the Boroo Gold Transaction

The Boroo Gold Transaction is expected to provide meaningful benefits to shareholders of Steppe Gold, including:

Increased gold production to 90,000 oz per annum in 2025 and 150,000 oz per annum by 2026.

Strong cash flow and increased financial strength to service ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion debt and project financing.

Funding for exploration programs and further acquisition opportunities in Mongolia.

Liquidity from the sale of the Tres Cruces Project.

Creation of a multi-asset producer with a strong base and focus in Mongolia.



Tres Cruces Transaction Details

Steppe Gold is also pleased to announce that it has entered into the Share Purchase Agreements, pursuant to which Boroo Singapore will acquire the Tres Cruces Project by purchasing all of the issued and outstanding shares of two of Steppe Gold's indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries for aggregate cash consideration of approximately CAD$12 million. The consideration is payable in four installments over a period of 18 months starting on the Closing Date (as defined in the Share Purchase Agreements). The Tres Cruces Transaction is expected to close in July 2024, following which, the Boroo Gold Transaction will close subsequently thereafter.

The Tres Cruces Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is cross conditional on the closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction.

Recommendation of the Steppe Board

Based on an independent verbal fairness opinion provided by Sequeira Partners, in respect of the Boroo Gold Transaction, and after consulting with its financial and legal advisors, among other considerations, the Steppe Board has unanimously: (i) determined that each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction is fair to Steppe Gold; (ii) approved each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction and the entering into of the Share Exchange Agreement and Share Purchase Agreements, respectively, is in the best interests of Steppe Gold; and (iii) resolved to recommend that Steppe Gold's shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction Resolution (as defined in the Share Exchange Agreement).

Advisors

Steppe Gold's legal counsel is Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP. Boroo Singapore's Canadian legal counsel is Stikeman Elliott LLP. Payet, Rey, Cauvi, Perez Abogados are Peruvian legal counsel to Steppe Gold and Boroo Singapore. Steppe Gold's financial advisor is Sequeira Partners. Boroo Singapore's financial advisor is Cormark Securities Inc.

Qualified Persons

The technical content of this news release regarding Steppe Gold has been reviewed and validated by Enkhtuvshin Khishigsuren, PEng., a "Qualified Person" as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Technical Reports

Additional information with respect to Steppe Gold's Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project, including its AuEq resource base, is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold dated November 6, 2022 and entitled "Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project (ATO) 2022 Mineral Resources & Reserves Report (NI 43-101)". A copy of said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Further information with respect to the Tres Cruces Project is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold, dated August 21, 2023 and entitled "Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Preliminary Economic Assessment". A copy of said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Steppe Gold

Steppe Gold is Mongolia's premier precious metals company and 100% owner of the ATO gold mine and the Uudam Khundii project in Mongolia.

About Boroo Gold

Established in 1997, Boroo Gold is a leading gold producer in Mongolia with over 50,000 tons per day mining fleet, 5,500 tons per day mill and carbon-in-leach circuit gold processing plant, 3,000,000 tons per annum heap leach and carbon-in-columns plant and an approximate workforce of over 400 people. Boroo Gold operates the Boroo mine in Selenge province, as well as owning and operating the adjacent Ulaanbulag mine in Mongolia.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These include statements regarding Steppe Gold's intent, or the beliefs or current expectations of the officers and directors of Steppe Gold, for Steppe Gold's growth, production and valuation post-closing of the Boroo Gold Transaction and Tres Cruces Transaction and future market conditions for metals.

When used in this news release, words such as "anticipated", "expected", "estimated", "future", "forecast", "likely", "opportunity", "ongoing", "potential", "planned", "projected", "proposed", "vision" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements as well as phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "should", "will", or "would" occur or the negative connotation of such terms.

As well, forward-looking statements may relate to Steppe Gold's future outlook and anticipated events, such as the consummation and timing of each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction; the Steppe Board and management team of Steppe Gold following the Boroo Gold Transaction; the satisfaction of the conditions precedent to each of the Boroo Gold Transaction and Tres Cruces Transaction; the anticipated benefits of the Boroo Gold Transaction; the potential for value creation to Steppe Gold's shareholders; the anticipated timing of the closings of the Boroo Gold Transaction and Tres Cruces Transaction; the entering into of the support and voting agreements, Investor Rights Agreement and other ancillary documents in connection with the Boroo Gold Transaction; the filing of the Share Exchange Agreement, the Share Purchase Agreements and the information circular in respect of the Meeting on SEDAR+; the details to be included in the information circular regarding the Meeting in respect of the Boroo Gold Transaction and the Tres Cruces Transaction; the timing and anticipated receipt of required shareholder, court and regulatory approvals for the Boroo Gold Transaction and, if applicable, for the Tres Cruces Transaction; Boroo's nomination and governance rights under the Investor Rights Agreement; anticipated gold production of Boroo Gold and combined gold production of Steppe Gold; the anticipated cash flow of Steppe Gold; potential liquidity from the sale of the Tres Cruces Project; and discussion of future plans, projections, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including those relating to: required shareholder, regulatory and stock exchange approvals; approvals from applicable Mongolian authorities; exercise of any termination rights under the Share Exchange Agreement or the Share Purchase Agreements; meeting other conditions precedent to each of the Share Exchange Agreement and the Share Purchase Agreements; the time required to prepare and mail the Meeting materials, including the information circular; material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of Steppe Gold or Boroo Gold; discrepancies between actual and estimated production and test results, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; and such other risk factors detailed from time to time in Steppe Gold's public disclosure documents, including, without limitation, those risks identified in Steppe Gold's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Steppe Gold assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Steppe Gold updates any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact Information

Steppe Gold

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Jeremy South, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Shangri-La office, Suite 1201, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District 1, Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Tel: +976 7732 1914




Toronto, April 11, 2024 - Kuya Silver Corp. (CSE: KUYA) (OTCQB: KUYAF) (FSE: 6MR1) (the "Company" or "Kuya Silver") is pleased to announce it has closed the second and final tranche of a USD$1,200,000 non-brokered private placement pursuant to an agreement with Trafigura Pte Ltd ("Trafigura"), through two of its subsidiaries, whereby Trafigura has invested USD$970,000 to acquire 5,266,324 units ("Units") of Kuya Silver at a price of CDN$0.25 per Unit to support the restart of production from the Bethania mine located in central Peru, to produce silver-lead and zinc concentrates (the "Offering"). Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of Kuya Silver ("Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one Common Share for $0.37 until April 11, 2026. Trafigura has agreed to hold the Common Shares acquired in the Offering for a minimum of one year and will immediately exercise the Warrants if the Common Shares trade at a premium of 25% to the Warrant exercise price for one month.

About Kuya Silver Corporation

Kuya Silver is a Canadianbased mineral exploration and development company with a focus on acquiring, exploring, and advancing precious metals assets in Peru and Canada.

For more information, please contact:

David Stein, President and Chief Executive Officer

Telephone: (604) 3984493

info@kuyasilver.com

www.kuyasilver.com

Reader Advisory

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information," including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities of the Company. The words "may," "would," "could," "will," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "must," "next," "propose," "new," "potential," "prospective," "target," "future," "verge," "favourable," "implications," and "ongoing," and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking information. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, any discussion of the potential of exploration targets, assay results and the proposed use of the proceeds of the Offering, is forward-looking information. Investors are cautioned that statements including forward-looking information are not guarantees of future business activities and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking information as a result of various factors, including but not limited to fluctuations in market prices, successes of the operations of the Company, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market, and business conditions. There can be no assurances that such forward-looking information will prove accurate, and therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of the risks and uncertainties. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information except as required under the applicable securities laws.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada 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/205195
Burnaby, April 12, 2024 - Great Eagle Gold Corp. (CSE: GEGC) (FSE: GI8) ("Great Eagle" or the "Company"), the world's premier NatGold Miner, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Moses to its Board of Directors and the commencement of non-brokered private placement financing.

Michael Moses, a distinguished figure in business development and strategy within the burgeoning medical cannabis and investment sectors, spearheads growth initiatives since September 2023 as the Chief Business Development Officer and Strategy Consultant for Allied Health, operating in Canada and Colombia. His tenure commenced in November 2022 as a Business Development Consultant, where he was instrumental in steering the company's reorganization and strategic direction. Moses also successfully built the commercial arm of the business from the ground up, from assembling a sales team to establishing pivotal manufacturing and export partnerships across Europe and Australia.

Parallel to his role at Allied Health, Moses contributes his strategic expertise to Parkdale Investments S.A. in Geneva, Switzerland, since June 2022, enhancing their wealth management and investment solutions. His profound impact was also felt in the restructuring of a Luxembourg-based trade finance fund, showcasing his proficiency in navigating complex regulatory landscapes.

As the Founder and CEO of Donaco from 2017 to 2022, Moses pioneered a tech-led platform significantly improving online customer outreach for social impact businesses, notably reducing customer acquisition costs and securing prominent partnerships, including with UNICEF UK and Crisis UK. His venture underscored his dedication to generating social impact through innovative business models.

Moses holds a Master's degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Management from Imperial College London, achieved between 2013 and 2017. Michael Moses embodies the intersection of strategic innovation, operational excellence, and social responsibility in his multifaceted career.

Chris Hansen, Chairman of Great Eagle Gold, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It is with great pleasure that we welcome Michael to our esteemed team. Michael has exhibited remarkable business acumen and infuses Great Eagle with an infectious sense of passion. In addition to his organizational development skills, his demonstrated prowess in securing financing for expanding enterprises is expected to be immensely valuable to Great Eagle's growth trajectory."

Concurrently with his appointment, Mr. Moses was granted 100,000 incentive stock options pursuant to the terms of the Company's stock option plan. Such options are exercisable at the price of $0.51 until April 11, 2029.

Private Placement Financing

The Company intends to complete a non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of up to $500,000 (the "Financing"). This is expected to consist of up to 1,315,790 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.38 per Unit, or as determined by Great Eagle management in accordance with Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Exchange") regulations. Each Unit will include one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant will be exercisable for an additional common share of Great Eagle at $0.75 per share for twenty-four months following the closing of the Financing. The Financing, subject to an over-allotment of up to $150,000 at the Company' s discretion, will be subject to Exchange acceptance, and all securities issued will adhere to a four-month hold period as per applicable securities legislation.

Great Eagle plans to pay finder's fees of up to 10% in cash and warrants in connection with the Financing. Certain directors, officers, and insiders of Great Eagle may participate in the Financing. Net proceeds are expected to be used for acquisition due diligence reviews, payment of current liabilities and ongoing working capital requirements.

Andrew Fletcher, CEO of Great Eagle, commented, "This small working capital financing is primarily being used to complete the evaluation and due diligence on potential new acquisition targets. During the past several months, Great Eagle has been diligently reviewing dozens of potential acquisition candidates. We are pleased to have short-listed that evaluation process and are now entering into the final negotiation stage process and anticipate an exciting road ahead."

About Great Eagle Gold Corp.

Great Eagle Gold Corp. (CSE: GEGC) (FSE: GI8), a Canadian public company, is the world's premier NatGold miner. Championed by the Geneva-based International NatGold Council, NatGold represents a pioneering fusion of ESG principles, gold investment security, and digital asset innovation, positioning itself at the forefront of a super-trend that merges these three domains into one unparalleled real-world asset-backed investment opportunity. NatGold captures gold's intrinsic value via a novel, legislatively supported, ESG-friendly digital mining process instead of traditional physical extraction.

Great Eagle's unique strategy centers on acquiring NI 43-101 certified gold resources to digitally mine NatGold coins within the cutting-edge NatGold tokenization and monetization ecosystem, operated by New York-based OroEx Corp. This approach allows Great Eagle Gold to adopt an innovative, ESG-friendly method to monetize gold's intrinsic value. The company's acquisition strategy is internationally focused, aiming to secure mining titles with NI 43-101 certified gold resources, in readiness for the expected global adoption of NatGold legislation that will enhance tokenization opportunities worldwide.

Great Eagle Gold Corp.

Chris Hansen, Chairman

For further information please contact:

Email: info@greateaglegold.com

Website: www.greateaglegold.com

Phone Number: +1 (415) 300-6144

Investor inquiries:

Green Gold Communications S.A.S.

Worldwide Toll Free: +1 (877) 513-5213

Direct +1 (775) 341-6015

Email: Info@greengoldcommunications.com

The securities referred to herein will not be or have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to Great Eagle's operations and the acquisition of NI 43-101 certified gold resources, the ability to digitally mine NatGold coins, the viability of the NatGold tokenization and monetization ecosystem, and development plans, expansion plans, estimates, expectations, forecasts, objectives, predictions and projections of the future. Specifically, this news release contains forward looking statements with respect to Great Eagle's proposed operations, acquiring and developing certified gold resources and their tokenization, and the receipt of required approvals. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the forward- looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "projects", "intends", "anticipates", or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or "variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "can", "could", "would", "might", or "will" be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". 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 Great Eagle to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the exploration and development and operation of Great Eagle's projects, the actual results of current exploration, development activities, conclusions of economic evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future precious metals prices, as well as those factors discussed in the sections relating to risk factors of our business filed in Great Eagle's required securities filings on SEDAR+. Although Great Eagle has attempted to identify important factors that could cause results to differ materially from those contained in forward- looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities law. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of, or statements made, by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.


Nexus Gold Corp. ("Nexus" or the "Company") (TSX-V: NXS, OTCQB: NXXGF, FSE: N6E) is pleased to provide a corporate update regarding its plans to return to the Dakouli 2 Gold Project, located in Burkina Faso, West Africa.

The Dakouli 2 property is a 9,800-ha gold project with several established zones of mineralization. Gold is situated from near surface to 200m depth, with the majority of the significant drill intercepts in the 100-meter range. The Company recently paid taxes on the property and intends to raise sufficient capital in the near term to begin multiple follow-up work programs during the remainder of the 2024 calendar year.

"Dakouli has proven to be a highly prospective gold target", said Milad Zareian, CEO. "With gold showing strong gains now is the time for Nexus to get back to developing what is a superb exploration project. West Africa holds some the planet's most prolific gold endowments, and Dakouli is located on the one of the more prolific greenstone belts. We're excited about gold's recent rise and we believe now is the perfect time to ramp up our operations in West Africa," continued Mr. Zareian.

Drilling to Date at Dakouli

In late 2020 the Company conducted a Reverse Circulation ("RC") drill program at the 98-sq kms concession consisting of 2,914 meters of exploratory drilling. The first-ever drill program on the property was designed to test several areas that have returned either high gold values from rock samples or coincidental soil geochemical and geophysical anomalies proximal to artisanal workings ("orpaillages").

Significant results were encountered in several holes, including:

DKL-20-RC-007

4.83 grams-per-tonne ("g/t") gold ("Au") over 20 meters

Including 14.51 g/t Au over 6m

And 39.6 g/t over 2m

DKL-20-RC-009

1.61 g/t Au over 10m

Including 4.11 g/t Au over 2m

DKL-20-RC-010

1.89 g/t Au over 8m

Including 6.54 g/t Au over 2

DRILL HOLE AZ DIP FROM (METERS) TO (METERS INTERCEPT METERS GOLD INTERCEPT GRAMS PER TONNE fire assay DKL-20-RC-007 350 -60 108 138 30 3.31 108 128 20 4.83 108 126 18 5.35 108 124 16 5.92 INCLUDES 108 110 2 1.175 110 112 2 1.06 118 120 2 2.28 120 122 2 39.6 122 124 2 1.645 DKL-20-RC-009 360 -45 50 60 10 1.61 INCLUDES 54 56 2 1.6 52 54 2 4.11 76 84 8 0.26 96 104 8 0.21 108 118 10 0.2 120 126 6 0.31 128 136 8 0.24 140 150 10 0.47 DKL-20-RC-010 360 -45 64 66 2 1.46 74 82 8 1.89 INCLUDES 2 6.54

In addition, several holes returned lengthy intercepts of sub-one gram gold, including DKL-20-RC-006 which returned .59 g/t Au over 18 meters, DKL-20-RC-017, which returned .91 g/t Au over 10m, and DKL-20-RC-002 which returned .64 g/t Au over 16 meters.

In the summer of 2021, the Company returned to Dakouli to conduct a 2000m follow up Diamond Drill program. Results from this program expanded upon the earlier RC drill results with several significant intercepts:

DKL-21-DD-001

0.95 g/t Au over 23m

Including 1.01 g/t Au over 15m

1.46 g/t Au over 7m

Including 4.87 g/t Au over 1m and 6.88 g/t Au over 1m

DKL-21-DD-002

1.90 g/t Au over 28m

Including 10.87 g/t Au over 4m

Including 15.1 g/t Au over 1m, and 17 g/t Au over 1m

1.43 g/t Au over 10m

Including 10.6 g/t Au over 1m

DKL-21-DD-008

0.86 g/t over 17m

Including 1.18 g/t Au over 12m and 2.19 g/t Au over 6m

DRILL HOLE AZIMUTH DIP FROM TO LENGTH Au g/t DKL-21-DD-001 0 -60 80 81 1 2.87 103 135 32 0.75 INCLUDES 112 135 23 0.95 INCLUDES 120 135 15 1.01 123 135 12 1.14 Includes 129 130 1 2.46 134 135 1 6.88 187 194 7 1.46 INCLUDES 188 189 1 2.03 190 191 1 4.87 DKL-21-DD-002 0 -50 75.5 77 1.5 1.94 91 119 28 1.90 INCLUDES 91 95 4 10.87 91 92 1 15.10 94 95 1 17.00 102 103 1 1.78 106 107 1 1.09 110 111 1 1.79 118 119 1 2.38 144 145 1 2.04 154 164 10 1.43 INCLUDES 156 157 1 10.60 DKL-21-DD-008 360 -60 168 180 12 1.18 INCLUDES 179 180 1 12.7

Drilling has so far primarily been confined to a small section in the upper northeastern portion of the concession ground.



Click Image To View Full Size

Image 1: Location of Dakouli 2 project, Goren Greenstone Belt, Burkina Faso, West Africa



Click Image To View Full Size

Image 2: Bisecting Sabce faults (red) and artisanal zones, Dakouli 2 project, Burkina Faso, West Africa

About the Dakouli 2 Gold Concession

The Dakouli 2 exploration permit is a nearly 100-sq km gold exploration property located approximately 100 kilometers due north of the capital city Ouagadougou. Situated on the Goren greenstone belt, Dakouli is proximal to Nordgold's Bissa Mine, and is bisected by the gold-bearing Sabce shear zone.

In late 2018 Company geologists conducted a comprehensive ground reconnaissance program to the west and south of the main orpaillage (artisanal zone) and identified new near surface workings being exploited by artisanal miners. Rock samples collected from these new zones contained various concentrations of visible gold, including coarse nuggety samples.

Follow up work outlined an anomalous zone extending some 500 meters west from the sample zones. Based on those results the Company initiated a 150-line kilometer soil geochemical survey covering the northern half of the Dakouli 2 property. This survey identified three prominent gold geochemical trends.

The primary gold trend parallels the Sabce fault zone and extends for approximately 10 kilometers in a northeast-southwest direction and bisects the property from the northeast corner of the property to its western boundary. The Sabce fault hosts multiple deposits including Nordgold's 3.4M oz Bissa Mine, located approximately 25km east of the Dakouli ground.

Two secondary gold trends which extend for approximately 6.5 kilometers each are oriented in a northwest to southeast direction and bisect the primary trend. All three gold geochemical trends are coincidental to geophysical trends identified from the national regional airborne geophysics.

* Please note that while the Company considers sampling and reporting results from the new portions of the exploration permit to be accurate, readers are cautioned that a Qualified Person has been unable to verify the laboratory involved in the analysis of these samples, and no documentation was available regarding quality control procedures utilized in the analysis.

Warren Robb P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration, is the designated Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is responsible for, and has approved, the technical information contained in this release.

About the Company

Nexus Gold is a Canadian-based exploration company with a focus on precious metals in proven global mining jurisdictions. The company's primary asset is the 98-sq km Dakouli 2 Gold Concession, located in Burkina Faso, West Africa.

For more information, please visit nxs.gold

On behalf of the Board of Directors of

Nexus Gold Corp.

Milad Zareian, Chief Executive Officer

Tel: 416-846-4599

info@nexusgoldcorp.com

www.nexusgoldcorp.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. This news release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially because of factors discussed in the management discussion and analysis section of our interim and most recent annual financial statement or other reports and filings with the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities regulations. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.


VANCOUVER, April 12, 2024 - Pinnacle Silver and Gold Corp. ("Pinnacle" or the "Company") (TSXV:PINN), (OTC:NRGOF), (Frankfurt:X6C) announces that it is arranging a non-brokered private placement to raise gross proceeds of up to $600,000 (the "Offering"). The placement will consist of up to 20,000,000 units (the "Units") with each Unit comprising one common share ("Share") in the capital of the Company and one-half share purchase warrant ("Warrant"), whereby each whole Warrant shall be convertible into an additional Share at an exercise price of $0.05 for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. A finder's fee of up to 6% in cash and 6% in warrants exercisable into Shares at $0.05 for a period of 24 months may also be paid.The net proceeds raised from the Offering will be used for the preparation of summer drilling at the Argosy Gold Mine and North Birch Project, new project evaluations and general working capital.All securities to be issued will be subject to a four-month hold period from the date of issuance and subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. The securities offered have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements.Pinnacle is currently focused on district-scale exploration for precious metals in the prolific Red Lake District of northwestern Ontario. The past-producing high-grade Argosy Gold Mine is open to depth, while the adjacent North Birch Project offers additional blue-sky potential. Pinnacle is also actively looking for other district-scale opportunities in the Americas, with a particular focus on silver and gold. With a seasoned, highly successful management team and quality projects, Pinnacle Silver and Gold is committed to building long term, sustainable value for shareholders.Email: info@pinnaclesilverandgold.comWebsite: www.pinnaclesilverandgold.comNeither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Sainz says still no idea about 2025

Carlos Sainz says he still has "no idea" which Formula 1 team he will be driving for beyond 2024.

Carlos Sainz, Japanese GP 2024

 Ferrari

What is clear is that it won't be a green Aston Martin - as Fernando Alonso removes himself from the ultra-early 2025 driver market.

The 42-year-old has re-committed to Aston Martin for next year and at least the first season of the new rules era in 2026, reuniting him with works Honda power.

Alonso's new contract appears to also promise him a brand ambassadorial role for his post-racing career in the future, as he admits he had talks with other teams, believed to most notably be Mercedes and Red Bull.

Probably yes, the Spaniard admitted when asked if he will continue in another role at the Silverstone based team in the future. "But I don't know when I'm going to stop driving.

If I continue for many years, I may reach the contract (end) date. To commit to a one-year project didn't make sense for me. I felt more loved at Aston Martin, Alonso told reporters on Thursday.

The other conversations were light and did not lead me to conclusions, or were taking more time. At Aston there was a clear desire to work together.

As for Sainz, he still has an outside shot at a Red Bull or Mercedes seat, but neither appears more likely than an Audi-owned Sauber future for the 29-year-old.

With his performance, Carlos is the one who is wanted right now, believes Spanish F1 commentator Antonio Lobato, speaking to DAZN. Any team wants him, so now it's Carlos' decision to choose the best team from among them.

Spanish former racing driver Andy Soucek told Marca: He deserves a place in a leading team and the entire grid knows it. And I have no doubt that it will be so.

However, Red Bull and Mercedes are not rushing. Everyone is waiting to see what Max Verstappen does, surmises Michael Schmidt, a top journalist for Auto Motor und Sport.

Audi-Sauber, on the other hand, wants to settle its driver situation within mere days - which ties in with Sainz's recent comments about wanting to speed up his own decision-making process.

Schmidt said Red Bull's Sergio Perez and Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg are also linked with Sauber.

Sainz insists to Sky Italia: "I have no idea where I will be in 2025. At the moment I still have nothing to say but obviously it doesn't just depend on me but also the other teams.

They know that I'm available. Let's see what will happen.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, meanwhile, has emerged with new comments admitting his teen protege Kimi Antonelli is one of the favourites to replace Lewis Hamilton.

Some of the other top drivers are going to make a decision on what to do soon, he said, but there's a feeling that points me in a direction not to take the decision too quickly.

(GMM)
Keeping kids safe and addressing the problem of drivers passing stopped school buses was the goal of three local Girl Scouts as they worked towards earning their Silver Award.

Olivia Wilkenson, Emma Whitehead and Kymani Reid are members of local Girl Scout Troop 1932, and for about a year now they've been working to help their community and reach an important Girl Scouts milestone.

"[The Silver Award] is the second-highest award in Girl Scouts, and in order to complete it we have to find a problem in our community and create a lasting solution," Wilkenson explained.

All three Girl Scouts, alon...
Few hunting experiences are as rugged, challenging and elusive as stalking a bighorn sheep.

Interested Wyoming residents typically wait decades, if not even a lifetime, before drawing a ram license in their home state. Sheep herds are relatively small, scattered and found in remote, challenging terrain compared to pronghorn, deer or even elk. And the opportunity is once in a lifetime. Draw a Wyoming bighorn sheep ram tag, and whether or not you fill it, you'll never get another.

But ewes are a different story. Licenses for hunting female sheep are a newer offering of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the agency has ramped up quotas in the last couple of years.

Not everyone is happy about that. Critics point out that bighorn sheep are rare, and argue we should not be shooting the reproductive members of the herd. But wildlife researchers and biologists contend that once bighorn sheep herds reach capacity, members are going to die one way or the other, whether by bullet, bug or bad winter.

Wildlife managers may one day be able to place some of those extra sheep in mountains near Jeffrey City thanks to a recently passed bill. Though even with a possible reintroduction, biologists still ask the public to bear with them while they use hunting as a way to kill a smaller number of animals to save a larger portion of the herd.

Debating a hunt

Hesitation toward hunting female big game animals, the ones responsible for producing offspring and thus most important for sustaining herds, has always carried some controversy, said Kevin Hurley, vice president of conservation for the Wild Sheep Foundation.

"When I was in Wildlife 101 almost 50 years ago, they talked a lot about whitetail deer hunting in Vermont or Pennsylvania and, 'how dare you suggest killing a whitetail doe?'" he said. "Well, when whitetail numbers got out of control, it switched to 'maybe we should have harvested some of these reproducing females.'"

People like to think the more animals on the landscape, the better. And it's easy to see the basis for that argument. Before European settlers, between 1.5 million and 2 million bighorn sheep lived across the West. Settlers overharvested the animals for food and market, and disease took care of the rest. Now about 70,000 roam western states.

Despite a bighorn sheep's ability to live in some of the country's harshest landscapes, they're remarkably fragile. If pathogens that cause pneumonia enter a herd, often contracted when a bighorn sheep gives a nose-to-nose hello to a domestic sheep carrying the disease, herds could plummet.

Take the Whiskey Basin bighorn sheep herd. Biologists spent years capturing sheep from the iconic herd outside of Dubois in the Wind River Range and sending them across Wyoming and the West to start new populations. But a few decades ago, the herd crashed because of pneumonia and has never fully recovered.

The Whiskey Basin's sad tale, along with fledgling new populations, meant that for many years, bighorn sheep hunting in Wyoming was even more limited than today. But as years passed, and other herds like the ones near Jackson and in the Ferris-Seminoe mountains in central Wyoming grew, so did opportunity. Soon, some of Wyoming's bighorn sheep herds grew from tens of individual sheep to hundreds.

But biologists worry that the herds' successes, if wildlife managers aren't careful, could also be their downfall.

Tale of two herds

Look at a growth line of the Jackson bighorn sheep herd, and you will see the story of disease and bad winters. Biologists think the area has enough food to support about 400 animals. Creep closer to 500, as the herd did in 2000, and the numbers collapse. The reason became clear more recently through research with the University of Wyoming.

"Body fat on the females dropped significantly as the number of sheep increased," said Aly Courtemanch, Game and Fish wildlife biologist in the Jackson region. "They had less fat, were more infected by pathogens and pregnancy rates also dropped. Those are all pretty clear signs of too many sheep on the landscape."

The herd so far has seemed able to bounce back, but Courtemanch worries one day they won't be so resilient. So two years ago, Game and Fish wildlife managers introduced ewe hunting. Instead of only allowing hunters to kill male bighorn sheep, the ones with the partial or full curl horns that wind around the sides of their heads, hunters can now kill females, too.

The Ferris-Seminoe herd tells a different story. Biologists restarted the herd in 2009, and it's now the only one in Wyoming that remains disease-free. With about 400 sheep, it's healthy, robust and growing, said Daryl Lutz, Game and Fish's Lander region wildlife management coordinator.

But when bighorn sheep - or plenty of other species for that matter - exceed their habitat's carrying capacity, they start to wander.

"Mostly that's rams foraying, looking for love during the rut, but we also know ewes will go looking to expand their range," Lutz said.

And once a sheep makes a foray into new habitat, they risk encountering the pathogens that cause pneumonia and bringing them back to the herd.

In response, the department proposed hunting 20 ewes or lambs from the herd last year, and this year they're proposing hunting another 30.

UW professor Kevin Monteith isn't going to advocate for more hunting. It's not his role, he said. But he and graduate students in his program have studied bighorn sheep in the Jackson and Whiskey Basin herds for years, and what they found is pretty clear: Keep too many sheep in one area, at some point, a bunch are going to die.

So for him, it's a tradeoff. If we want more sheep on the landscape but don't have more food for them to eat, we have to accept that at some point, they will start falling over.

Starting again

Critics of ewe hunting will say instead of hunting females, the state should translocate them.

Right now, nowhere in Wyoming needs more sheep, but that could soon change.

The Wyoming Legislature passed a wonky wildlife bill this year to protect public land grazing rights in the Sweetwater Rocks area from possible federal restrictions should bighorn sheep reestablish themselves or be brought there by humans. The bill states that if the federal government tries to restrict grazing rights because of fear of disease, Game and Fish will remove all the bighorn sheep from the hypothetical herd.

Similar legislation was created years ago to address possible conflict and concerns with sheep in the Sierra Madres, Lutz said. While it may sound draconian, easing sheep producers' fears is the first step in paving the way to a possible reintroduction.

But there's no guarantee of a new herd. The bill won't go into effect until January 2026, or if Congress passes a mirror bill. At that time, Game and Fish will need to talk again with area landowners and anyone else interested.

If all that happens, and the department proceeds with creating a new herd, Lutz said the starter sheep will likely come from that disease-free, and relatively nearby, Ferris-Seminoe population.

"That's why keeping the Ferris-Seminoe herd healthy is important," Lutz said. "Not just for the sake of the herd, which is the most important reason, but right now it's the only healthy herd in the state."

WyoFile is an independent nonprofit news organization focused on Wyoming people, places and policy.
Kenneth W. Finney returned to his heavenly father, Friday, November 24, 2023. He was born in Flint, Michigan, on January 14, 1951, to Tom and Modean(Blackburn) Finney. His family moved back to North Little Rock, Arkansas, shortly thereafter. He moved to Green River, Wyoming, with his mother in 1994.

Kenneth is survived by his brothers Don Finney of Globe, AZ, and Darrell Finney (Rue Marie) of Green River, WY, as well as, several aunts, nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, paternal grandparents, maternal grandparents, sister-n-law Paula Finney, aunts, and uncles,

Cremation has taken place. There are no services planned.
Our beloved friend and family member Neal Stanley Baldwin, 72, passed away on Monday, April 1, 2024, at Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County. He was a resident of Rock Springs for more than four decades and died following a long illness.

Neal was born on January 4, 1952, in Republic, WA, to Richard Baldwin and Margery Robinson. He grew up in the forests of the Northwest on a variety of US Forest Service Ranger Stations until his father was transferred to the region 5 district office in Missoula, MT, when Neal was starting high school. There he graduated from Hellgate High School in 1970, and then he went to work in Montana's timber industry before coming to Rock Springs to start his career as a trona miner in the early 70 's. He had an older sister, Sky Baldwin of Austin, CO, and a younger brother, Rex Baldwin(deceased) of Rawlins, WY.

In the late 1980s, Neal survived a near-deadly mine roof collapse. Doctors didn't think he'd walk again, but through sheer will, he was able to return to work a year and a half later and stayed to retire from Genesis Alkali after more than four decades of service in October 2022. Neal was known for standing up for his coworkers and was a member of USW Local 13214. He often bragged that he was the oldest worker still down in the mine, and that he thought it was the perfect job. Although Neal was a miner for the majority of his life, he also spent years in Sweetwater County as an entrepreneur as well, he owned and operated the Dairy Queen and opened A Plus Glass, in Green River, Wyoming. He was a man of many trades and a proud business owner.

Neal found peace and freedom riding his Harleys across the West and traveled to Sturgis every year. He was very handy and deeply artistic, which came out in many different ways throughout his life: from creating exceptional stained-glass pieces, to dreaming up tattoos only he could have imagined, to writing poignant short essays on life and motorcycle riding. He jokingly remembered that he never, however, turned in any of his English composition papers.

Neal's proudest accomplishment was helping care for and raise Thomas O'Brien. Not a day went by when Neal didn't tell someone about all of Thomas' successes and how fortunate Neal felt to have Thomas and his wife Marissa in his life. All of his family was very important to Neal. He never missed a Baldwin family reunion and enjoyed keeping track of his relatives.

Neal is survived by: his sister Susan Sky Baldwin; stepsisters Brooke Nelson and Brenda Kameenui; Thomas and Marissa O'Brien, his nephews James Baldwin and Sam Baldwin (his wife Brittany Baldwin and their daughter Emery), Jacalyn Bruley (her husband Joe Bruley and their son Turner), sister-in-law Jone Baldwin, and his best friend Annie Parady (her daughters Sarah, Katelyn, and Annalise).

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, stepmother Barb, and beloved brother Rex Baldwin.

Neal loved the land around Rock Springs and prayed his soul could return to protect it. We hope he is out there riding free, and as Neal said in one of his essays, "They (tourists) are seeing vast miles of nothingness, wondering how anyone would want to live here. I look around and see everything important to me, the beauty".

Celebration of life will be held at a later date in May.

Condolences may be left at http://www.foxfh.com.
Efforts to bring more and better mental health resources to Green River have taken a step forward with the opening of a new location for High Point Counseling.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new location at 541 E Flaming Gorge Way Suite E was hosted on Monday. The staff of High Point was joined by the Green River Chamber and Hole in the Wall Gang, City of Green River representatives, and friends and supporters. Everyone gathered to cut the ribbon, eat cupcakes, take part in giveaways, and watch as High Point Counseling received the First Dollar Award and Chamber Member Plaque from the Green...
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Sony's upcoming Xperia 1 VI has so far been rumored to sport a very similar design to its predecessor, just with a different screen aspect ratio - less tall, a little bit wider this time around. We've also heard the 4K resolution might be gone, and that the cameras could be exactly the same as those on the Xperia 1 V from last year.

Today we get to actually look at the Xperia 1 VI, courtesy of some leaked CAD-based renders of the device. The source of these renders claims the phone will have a 6.5-inch screen, and as you can see the headphone jack is still in, as is the dedicated camera shutter button on the right side.

The Xperia 1 VI is said to measure 161.9 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm, which makes it - say it with us - less tall and wider than its predecessor, which measures 165 x 71 x 8.3 mm. So clearly, the sixth generation is ready to say goodbye to the 21:9 screen aspect ratio that made previous Xperia 1 devices stand out, and instead it opts for something more in line with what every other flagship device is doing.

Most phones these days are in the 19:9 to 20:9 space, and that's most likely where the Xperia 1 VI will also end up. As for the 4K resolution, the industry hasn't widely adopted that, so if the rumors pan out, Sony will be giving up on yet another feature that probably seemed like a good idea when it was conceived, but in reality doesn't matter that much - the sales numbers for the Xperia 1 series' non-4K competitors speak volumes on this matter.

It's unclear exactly when Sony intends to make the Xperia 1 VI official, but for reference do note that the Xperia 1 V was announced in May of last year. Perhaps we'll see an unveiling around the same time.

Source
Dakar, Senegal (PANA) - The President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, is encouraging civil servants and public employees to report any irregularities or unethical or illegal practices that they become aware of within public sector companies
One out of every 17 cases investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in 2023 tested positive for methamphetamine, outgoing Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Jeffrey Nine said during a sit down at the Legislature on Friday.

Nine said his office investigates just about every death on Guam.

So in this room, hate to say it, theres more than 17 people in this room. One of them may be using meth, he told senators and others gathered in the legislative public hearing room.

Among those bodies that are brought into his office for examination for generally suspicious or non-natural deaths, the ratio is higher, at one in six testing positive.

The meth problem was the first point Nine raised, when Speaker Therese Terlaje asked what insights lawmakers should be aware of.

Obviously, methamphetamines. Methamphetamine abuse is a problem, Nine told senators.

There were 37 deaths caused by methamphetamine use and abuse.

Meth accounted for the vast majority of the 41 drug-related deaths seen last year, according to a report from Nines office.

Prior to his term in office, Nine said those who died from seemingly natural causes were not being screened for methamphetamine use that could have been the true cause of death.

He said there is now a test present at the autopsy table, to screen the urine of the deceased for drugs. In cases where that cant be done, the office now has a contract with a stateside, postmortem toxicology lab.

Asked by Sen. Chris Barnett about the prevalence of meth overdoses before his arrival, the doctor said he had discussed the issue with his administrative assistant, who has worked on Guam for the past 20 years.

She thinks that we likely did have an increase in methamphetamine deaths before I arrived. But we had no way to document that because we were not testing for it, Nine said.

The doctor told Barnett that there was likely a steep curve that brought overdose deaths up to where they are now.

Methamphetamine primarily damages the heart and the brain, the doctor noted, so what you see in methamphetamine use chronic or acute overdoses is either what looks like a heart attack, or what looks like a stroke.

His administrative assistant had taken to working as a death investigator for his office in the past yearwithout compensatory pay for the workand was going out and looking into cases where it appeared a person may have died from meth use.

Nine said hes even seen cases where people are suffering from meth-induced heart failure, and what theyre using to treat their heart failure is more methamphetamine.

Though not a good solution, the reasoning made some sense, as meth can increase heart rate, he said.

Meth can also damage the lungs, in a manner similar to the damage from cigarette smoking, but with ill effects that appear earlier and more severe, the doctor noted.

Methamphetamine doesnt really cause kidney failure or diabetes ... but if people have those, they can make it worse, he said.

What we typically see at the autopsy room is a person thats usually smaller, they usually are underweight, theyre malnourished, because theyre spending money on the drugs and not on their physical care and their medical care, he said.

The average person who died from a meth overdose was typically in their mid 30s to late 40s. They may be without work, have a low education level, and little social structure or social contact, Nine said.

Meth contributing to homicides, suicides

We see it not just only as the cause of death. In many cases, we see it as a contributing factor in a lot of cases. And we see it in a contributing factor in the homicides, the accidents, the suicides, its prevalent throughout all the different categories of death, he said.

Two of the seven people who died from homicide had meth in their systems, according to Nines annual report.

Meth use can cause irrational behavior, and can also contribute to other issues that lead to homicide, like money problems and gambling debts.

Data shows almost a third of the 32 suicides recorded in 2023, or 10 individuals, tested positive for meth.

According to Nine, meth is usually a contributing factor in suicide among older residents. Younger people tend to use marijuana and alcohol.

Death investigator needed

Nine, whose term ends at the end of the month, said a key need for his office is a certified death investigator to do the work that his administrative assistant has picked up.

In the case of meth-related deaths, a death investigator was the one out in the community, gathering information that could help lead to the determination of the case of death.

Without that death investigator, what happens is the medical examiner receives a body with no information, Nine said, which was the case before he came onboard at the office.

A death investigator could also help Guam to handle examinations with the virtual consultation of a forensic pathologist, once he left his office.

Only autopsies require a medical examiner to be present, Nine noted, and the database that stores information for the medical examiners office is fully accessible online, and can be reviewed remotely.

Replacement sought

The doctor is working with the local Commission on Postmortem Examinations to get a replacement for himself in place before he leaves.

Id have verbal commitment from three other forensic pathologists and I probably could get more after I leave and go back to the mainland and have communications ... that would be a team of four forensic pathologists to begin with, that could rotate to come in and do the autopsies, he told senators.

Nine, who is leaving the island due to family medical reasons, said he has a deep love for Guam.

The work that weve been doing here, I dont want to see that disappear, he said.

Shortly after the roundtable discussion Friday morning, the speaker presented Nine with a certificate recognizing him for his service while on Guam.

Terlaje said he had provided his services when the island was in desperate need of a medical examiner.

Barnett said the information he provided has helped the government to have an honest conversation about the meth issue Guam faces, and that his departure is a loss for the island.
Foodies across New Orleans rejoiced this morning at the kick-off of French Quarter Fest, the citys four-day-long free music festival, packed with dozens of delicious vendors.

The festival runs Thursday, April 11 through Sunday, April 14, on a 6-block stretch of New Orleans waterfront and Jackson Square.

I showed up bright and earlyand hungry!to eat my way through the festivals cuisine. Heres my top five discoveries.

1. Bao Mi Nola: KFC Bao Mi

Don't miss the KFC Bao from Bao Mi NOLA.Emily Topping

This bite-sized bao packs a punch, and I wish Id bought the whole box. Tender, crispy chicken is wrapped in a pillowy bun cloud and dressed in a honey soy garlic sauce.

2. Nori Guys: Spicy Tuna Fish Taco

Nori Guys, New Orleans' first sushi pop-up, showed out with their spicy tuna fish taco.Emily Topping

Nori Guys, New Orleans first sushi pop-up, brought their A-game to French Quarter Fest with this spicy tuna taco. The seaweed shells are hand-fried to order, providing a perfectly fresh crunch to counter each creamy mayo-ed bite.

3. Afrodisiac: Turkey Necks

Afrodisiac brings a Jamaican twist to a Cajun classic.Emily Topping

Before French Quarter Fest, Id never tasted turkey neck: I now feel the need to apologize for any hesitation. These handheld meals are a dark-meat-lovers dream, sticky with Jamaican jerk sauce and falling off the bone. They might make for a messy festival meal, but the meat is tender enough to use a fork. (You wont want to.)

4. Lufu Nola: Aloo Tikki Chaat

Lufu Nola is bringing their elevated Indian street food to French Quarter Fest this year.Emily Topping

This Indian street food bowl is perfect if youre looking for something light and refreshing. A crispy potato patty is loaded with yogurt, chutney, red onions and cilantro.

5. Walkers Southern Style BBQ: Cochon de Lait poboy

Walker's Southern BBQ is a staple at New Orleans music festivals.Emily Topping

Walkers Southern BBQ is a tried-and-true staple at New Orleans festivals, and for good reason. Their cochon de lait (thats suckling pig) poboy is packed with flavor, topped in a crunchy mayo slaw, and wrapped in a soft Dong Phuong french bread bun.

Angelino Wong, 11, and Grace Ng, recommend the bulgogi fries from Bao Mi. The pair are visiting New Orleans French Quarter Fest from San Francisco.Emily Topping

Emily Topping, author, finishes off a full day of feasting with a pineapple snoball from Plum Street Snoballs.Emily Topping

Lena Prima performs a song by father Louis Prima at New Orleans French Quarter Fest 2024.Emily Topping

Ron and Wendy Bell, of Atlanta, Georgia, dance along to Lena Prima's performance at French Quarter Fest.Emily Topping




Haiti - FLASH : No political transition has been so bloody (Report)





The situation described in the very detailed investigation report from the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights (RNDDH), reveals that the first quarter of 2024 was catastrophic in terms of respect for Human Rights. The RNDDH estimates that from 1990 to 2024, no political transition has ever been so bloody.



Since February 29, 2024, the two largest coalitions of armed gangs "G-9 An Fanmi e Alye" and "G-Pep" until then rivals, have come together in an alliance called "Viv Ansanm" and have decided to make a demonstration of their power by sowing terror in Port-au-Prince and neighboring communities



Brief summary (January to March 2024) :



- At least 208 people were murdered, including 13 police officers;

- At least 5 armed attacks were recorded (Beudet in Croix-des-Bouquets, Bel-Air, La Saline, Pernier and Ganthier) resulting in the assassination of at least 67 people;

- Many citizens' houses were looted and burned in Port-au-Prince and Delmas in particular. Thousands of victims of insecurity who were in camps had to take refuge elsewhere and other camps also emerged;

- At least 64 women and girls were victims of sexual violence including gang rape, according to combined data from RNDDH and "Neges Mawon", which is far from exhaustive;

- At least 158 people were injured by bullets in Port-au-Prince as well as in neighboring communities, according to combined data from certain hospital centers and the RNDDH;

- Numerous kidnappings have been recorded, of which at least 48 made the news;

- At least 9 demonstrations were severely repressed by agents of the Haitian National Police (PNH) during which at least 4 demonstrators were killed and 15 others injured, including 8 journalists;

- At least 83 private and public institutions and/or businesses were attacked, vandalized and/or burned in Port-au-Prince and neighboring communities, including 19 police stations and 5 peace courts and 1 court of first instance;

- In order to ransom the population, at least 13 toll booths installed by armed bandits/ 6 are located in the municipalities of Port-au-Prince and Cite Soleil, and the other 7 are installed on or near national roads 1,2,3, 5 and 8.



To find out all the details, dates of events, victims and more on the situation in Haiti, Download the full PDF report in English (27 pages): https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/4-Rap-Situation-DH-janv-mars-2024.10Avr2024.ENG_.pdf



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Diaspora : Inauguration of two new fundamental schools in the Northeast





More than 800 children in the North-East will be able to learn in better conditions, thanks to the construction of two new schools financed by the National Education Fund (FNE)



On Tuesday, April 11, 2024, Nesmy Manigat, the Minister of National Education in the presence of Jean Ronald Joseph, Director General of the FNE, Ms. Judith Auguste Nazareth, Minister of Haitians Living Abroad (MHAVE), and other officials of Education of the Department.



The two fundamental schools inaugurated are the National School Olivert Vincent de Baptiste, located in Gens-de-Nantes, 5th municipal section of Ouanaminthe, and the National School of Mateliere, located in the 1st municipal section of Capotille, which cost respectively 55.2 Million and 74 Million Gourdes.



The Minister Manigat, who presided over the two ceremonies, said he was satisfied with the buildings and underlined the symbolism of the event in these terms: "What we are inaugurating today is more than a school, it is also faith, hope [...] the hope that many children in rural areas will have a better future through a solid education and following inspiring role models in their community."



Manigat, however, recognized that despite the inauguration of these two schools, there remain many problems in the educational field to be resolved. To remedy this, he announced that several teaching permits for teachers from the North-East are already available and that the process for contracts and letters of appointment for a number of teachers in this department has already been launched by the Government, urging teachers to truly assume their responsibility towards students.



In his speech, Jean Ronald Joseph, the Director General of the FNE, warmly welcomed the contribution of the diaspora for these schools, built thanks to funds collected by the Government, through taxes collected on international calls and transfers. Their contribution to the financing of education was highlighted in strong ink by Professor Joseph who humbly presented these achievements as the concrete results of their contribution.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















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In 2023 , Finnish startups experienced a significant reduction in funding, down from the previous year's record highs, reflecting a broader trend of economic slowdown affecting startup investments across Europe and the United States. According to the Finnish Venture Capital Association (FVCA), total growth funding for Finnish startups was approximately 871 million, a sharp decline from the 1.7 billion raised in 2022.

This downturn in startup funding is primarily due to a reduction in the size and number of large investment rounds. For example, Hostaway, a leading provider of vacation rental customer relationship management software, secured the largest funding round of 2023 with 162 million. This contrasts starkly with the 440 million and 500 million rounds secured by Wolt in 2021 and Relex in 2022, respectively. The decrease was particularly pronounced in foreign investments, which plummeted by 58%, although domestic investments also fell by 17%.

Despite these challenges, 2023 was a robust year for Finnish venture capital funds, which raised a total of 507 million in new capital, nearing record levels. Notable contributions included Finland's largest venture capital fund by Lifeline Ventures, which amounted to 150 million. New entrants like Greencode Ventures, Kvanted, and Failup Ventures also marked their debut, broadening the domestic financial landscape.

Domestic venture capital remains a vital support for Finnish startups, especially in light of dwindling foreign capital. Jussi Sainiemi, Deputy Managing Partner at Voima Ventures and Chair of FVCAs Venture Capital Committee, emphasized the resilience of Finnish startups amidst tightening markets, highlighting their efforts to enhance capital efficiency.

The fundraising success of domestic funds is critical as it allows Finnish startups to continue receiving essential financial backing. Jonne Kuittinen, Deputy Chief Executive of FVCA, pointed out that while the scale of domestic funds is growing, reliance on foreign investors remains significant for larger, later-stage financing rounds.

Interestingly, investment companies of wealthy Finnish families, known as family offices, have become more prominent in the venture capital scene, contributing 167 million to the funds raised in 2023. Their increased activity reflects a growing recognition of the potential returns from venture capital investments.

As the Finnish startup ecosystem adapts to these new economic realities, the focus is also on attracting more foreign fund investors and addressing regulatory challenges that limit investment possibilities, aiming to further strengthen the foundation for domestic venture funding.

HT
Friends of the Oklawaha Greenway celebrate new birding trail

The Friends of the Oklawaha Greenway will host a mini-class in techno-birding, a ribbon cutting ceremony and a bird walk in a celebration of the new Birding Trail on the greenway on Earth Day Saturday, April 27.

The Friends group designed the Birding Trail project to enhance the greenway and highlight the rich bird habitat it preserves. The Trail was recently completed thanks to a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Henderson County plus support from the city of Hendersonville, Henderson County and MountainTrue.

The Oklawaha Birding Trail is a series of colorful interpretive signs containing information about birding as well as QR codes that link to interesting facts on the birds you might see and the habitats they need. In addition, the greenway boasts three eBird hotspots  areas of high bird activity. The hotspots are located at the south end in Jackson Park, the north end in the Berkeley parking area and near the red kiosk (from the Patton Park access).

The Earth Day events, which will be held rain or shine, include:

9 a.m.: Mini-class on eBird and Merlin, which are two free online resources from Cornell University, to help you identify the birds you see and hear. Meet instructor Cathy Ford at the Patton Park gazebo near the skateboard park. (Bring smart phone and binoculars if you have them)

10 a.m.: Ribbon cutting at the Birding Trail Welcome sign on the greenway (after crossing North Main Street from Patton Park)

10:15-11 a.m.: Walk along the new Birding Trail with Cathy Ford and other volunteers.

The 3-mile Oklawaha Greenway connects several large parks, and runs along Mud Creek, which provides a variety of habitats for birds, especially during spring and fall migration, said Ford, an avid birder and member of the Friends the Oklawaha Greenway.


Friday April 12, 2024

Mogadishu (HOL) - Ali Omar, State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Member of the Somali Federal Parliament, has strongly dismissed reports suggesting Somalia's involvement in a Kenya-proposed maritime treaty to resolve escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa.



Omar emphasized Somalia's commitment to its territorial integrity in light of a contentious agreement between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland. "Reports of a maritime treaty involving Somalia and Ethiopia are completely unfounded."





breach of sovereignty , has led to increased regional discord and concerns of further instability.





Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto in Nairobi on Thursday to discuss a diplomatic solution to the dispute.Kenya, along with Djibouti and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has stepped in with a treaty proposal designed to provide Ethiopia with "stable and predictable access to maritime resources" while respecting Somali sovereignty, according to Korir Sing'oei, Kenya's principal secretary for foreign affairs. The proposal also aims to temper the potential for conflict that might benefit Al-Shabab militants, who have historically exploited regional instability.The backdrop of these developments is fraught with historical complexities. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war, establishing its own government though not recognized as a sovereign state. Ethiopia , which lost its direct access to the sea in the 1990s after Eritrea's secession, has sought to secure maritime access to bolster its economic and military capabilities.These regional maneuvers occur amidst broader geopolitical shifts, where global and local powers are vying for influence in one of Africa's most strategic corridors.The international community, including the United States and the United Kingdom, continues to support Somalia's territorial integrity while monitoring the unfolding situation closely.
After the flawless hosting of the G-20 summit in 2023, a narrative has been created by the West and Indias adversaries to portray the Narendra Modi government as a hyper-nationalistic regime which is not averse to breaking international laws when it comes to protecting national interests. It started with pro-Khalistan Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who in a statement to Parliament on September 18, 2023, accused the Indian intelligence of orchestrating the killing of known Bhindranwale Tiger Force (BTF) terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver in June 2023. This was followed by the revelation of a US indictment of an Indian who was accused of acting on behalf of an Indian official to plan the assassination of a known Khalistan terrorist and violence instigator Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public rally ahead of the Lok Sabha Election in Udhampur, some 65 km from Jammu City, on April 12, 2024.(Photo By Waseem Andrabi /Hindustan Times)

Read: Rajnath Singh's warning to Pakistan over terrorism. Then an offer

Since then there has been a spate of articles in Western media accusing Indian intelligence of operating beyond the law when it comes to dealing with anti-India terrorists. Apart from insinuating articles and documentaries based on unnamed intelligence sources, the only piece of credible allegation thrown at the Modi government is the US indictment of Nikhil Gupta, with Canada still to walk the talk on the evidence in the case of terrorist Nijjar.

So whats behind these smoke-and-mirrors games?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a political rally in Rishikesh on Thursday made his intentions very clear when he said that under his government "aatankwadiyon ko ghar me ghus kar maara jata hai." What PM meant was that his government has zero tolerance for terror and the Indian position against terrorism in all forms is non-negotiable.

While Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have made it clear that the Indian response to cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan will be on the lines of the Uri surgical strikes and Balakot air attack, the Modi government, like others, has no intentions whatsoever to comment on its intelligence agencies or its counter-terror operations. It is suffice to say that those who comment dont know and those who know, dont speak to either the political leadership or the media in particular.

The mindset behind this orchestrated narrative in the West is colonial, to say the least, but it betrays the uneasiness of the past imperial powers and their lackeys towards a rising India with PM Narendra Modi expected to return back to Raisina Hill on a pro-incumbency wave after being 10 years on the hot seat. Fact is that while the West does not want India to weaken beyond a certain level to continue acting as a countervailing force to China, it does not want India to grow to such a level that it starts holding on its own in the world. Simply put, Indias rise in the world will not be as benign as many Bharatiyas expect but will be contested by both ostensible friends and adversaries.

The Western narrative to Indias muscular action against terrorism and in support of its national interest is in anticipation of Modi 3.0, where the focus will be pro-India not pro-China, Russia or the US as in the past. For an unbridled and confident India is as much of a threat to China as it is to the West, given that Bharat has been a continuous civilization for the past 5000 years with its own rich culture and diversities.

Although the West and even Communist dictatorships like China or military oligarchy like Pakistan want India to follow international rules, the question is do anti-India terrorists based in Pakistan or the UK, US, Canada or Germany also follow any rules apart from religious fundamentalism? Did the Khalistanis follow rules when they bombed Air India jumbo in 1985 or did Masood Azhar follow a terror doctrine when Harkat-ul-Ansar hijacked an IC-814 plane to Kandahar from Kathmandu in 1999?

Before 2014, India faced three decades of terror strikes and bloodletting at an industrial scale from terrorists based in Pakistan, but the West only asked India to exercise restraint and to talk to Islamabad for relief, with its media acting as amplifiers of jihadists. The Kashmir Assembly attack, the Parliament attack, the Ram Janambhoomi attack, the Mumbai train bombings, attacks on Delhi, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Pune, Mumbai, Jaipur and the 26/11 attacks are all reminders that India has been hit very hard by Islamists with West hardly ever castigating the terrorist state of Pakistan.

The UPA government in India instead of taking on Pakistan started playing politics with terror and coined the term Hindu terrorism for its vote bank gains. Rather than recognising that Islamists within India were out to rip apart the communal fabric of the country, the UPA government refused to recognise the enemy within. The pusillanimous UPA government did not even react to 26/11 massacre by the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taibaa group and virtually gave credence to a lie that India was involved in the Balochistan insurgency at Sharm-el-Sheikh dialogue in July 2009, just eight months after Pakistanis spilled innocent blood in Mumbai.

The certainty of a predictable weak Indian response to a terror attack and the sanctimonious advice by the West actually followed a set pattern till Narendra Modi came to Delhi in May 2014. Suddenly the cost of cross-border terrorism to Pakistan increased after the Uri surgical strikes in 2018 and the Indian air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror training camp at Balakot in 2019. Fact is that after the February 14, 2019 suicide attack on CRPF troopers, the Indian RAW chief Anil Dhasmana called up the then ISI chief now Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir and gave him a list of Indian terrorists taking shelter in Pakistan for him to take action. Since the Indian demand fell on deaf ears, the Balakot strike followed.

Today, the Indian doctrine to terrorist and terrorism is quite clear. Nothing attributable or non-attributable will go unpunished as the Indian response will not be predictable or weak. Neither the Indian public nor the Indian political leadership will take bloodletting of innocents lying down. The answer will be given in the language that terrorists and their habourer nations understand.
Libra - (23rd September to 22nd October) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, balancing Scales with Grace and Wisdom Today's planetary alignment fosters growth, challenging Libras to balance desires with practicalities in personal and professional spheres. Libra Daily Horoscope Today, April 13, 2024: For Libras, today is a pivotal day for harnessing energies that encourage a fine balance between dreams and reality.

For Libras, today is a pivotal day for harnessing energies that encourage a fine balance between dreams and reality. The cosmic vibe supports personal development, pushing for a closer examination of lifes various facets. Relationships, career choices, and financial decisions should be approached with wisdom and patience. Today's challenges are stepping stones for growth, paving the way for a harmonious and fulfilling journey.

Libra Love Horoscope Today

In the realm of romance, today promises the warmth of understanding and the thrill of connection. The stars are aligned in favor of heartfelt conversations and genuine displays of affection. For those in a relationship, this is the perfect time to discuss future plans and align on shared goals. Single Libras might stumble upon intriguing encounters that have the potential to blossom into something meaningful. Keep an open mind and heart, allowing the cosmic energies to guide your romantic endeavors towards fulfillment and joy.

Libra Career Horoscope Today

The professional landscape today offers Libras a platform to showcase their inherent diplomatic and decision-making skills. An opportunity may arise that calls for a balanced approach and strategic thinking. Be ready to step into a mediator role, as your ability to see both sides of an issue will be crucial. Networking is highly favored under the current astral influence, opening doors to beneficial alliances. Keep an eye out for mentors or guides who can offer wisdom that aligns with your career aspirations.

Libra Money Horoscope Today

Financially, Libras are on the brink of a breakthrough. The day favors re-evaluation of budgets and investment plans with a fresh perspective. Its an opportune time to consider sustainable options that promise long-term gains rather than quick fixes. However, impulse spending is a pitfall you must avoid today. Seek advice from a financial expert if you're considering major financial moves.

Libra Health Horoscope Today

Today calls for attention towards your mental and physical well-being, urging you to find your personal harmony and balance. Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga to combat stress and enhance mental clarity. On the physical front, consider gentle exercises that align with your bodys needs rather than pushing yourself to the limit. Nourishing your body with healthy food and adequate hydration is paramount today.

Libra Sign Attributes

Strength: Idealist, socially presentable, Aesthetic, Charming, Artsy, Generous

Weakness: Uncertain, Lazy, Non-interventionist

Symbol: Scales

Element: Air

Body Part: Kidneys & Bladder

Sign Ruler: Venus

Lucky Day: Friday

Lucky Color: Brown

Lucky Number: 3

Lucky Stone: Diamond

Libra Sign Compatibility Chart

Natural affinity: Gemini, Leo, Sagittarius, Aquarius

Good compatibility: Aries, Libra

Fair compatibility: Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio, Pisces

Less compatibility: Cancer, Capricorn

By: Dr. J. N. Pandey

Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert

E-mail: djnpandey@gmail.com

Phone: 9811107060 (WhatsApp Only)
In medical science, few areas promise as much hope and potential for breakthroughs as genomic programming and cancer research. Dr. Sreekumar Raghavakaimal stands at the forefront of these pioneering efforts. His career, marked by significant contributions to understanding and treating genetic diseases, proves the power of combining passion with scientific inquiry.

Dr. Raghavakaimal's work advances our knowledge and offers tangible hope to those affected by these conditions. But what drives a distinguished scientist to dedicate his life to this cause? The answer lies in a story of personal encounters with disease and an unwavering commitment to change the narrative for future generations.

Early Life and Inspiration

Born in the verdant state of Kerala, India, Dr. Raghavakaimal's story began in a household brimming with life as one of six children. His formative years, rich in cultural and familial experiences, were also shadowed by health challenges that many families face: diabetes and cancer. The impact of these diseases on his family was profound, shaping his aspirations and directing his academic pursuits.

Losing his father and a brother to cancer transformed personal loss into a professional quest. It ignited a resolve in Dr. Raghavakaimal to unravel the complexities of genetic diseases and seek out pathways for prevention and cure. This resolve propelled him from the classrooms of Kerala to the cutting edge of genomic research, with a singular focus: to confront and conquer the genetic underpinnings of diseases like diabetes and cancer.

Educational Trajectory

Dr. Raghavakaimal's path through academia began with his undergraduate and master's studies in Chemistry at the University of Kerala, India. This period laid the groundwork for his scientific inquiry and introduced him to the complexities and wonders of chemical interactions. His passion for understanding the intricate details of organic chemistry led him to pursue a Ph.D. at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, India. Here, Dr. Raghavakaimal deepened his expertise, exploring the nuances of organic compounds and their reactions.

His next chapter unfolded at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he undertook postdoctoral training. This experience was transformative, marking the beginning of his fascination with genomics. The early 2000s, especially with the sequencing of the human genome, was a thrilling time for genetics, opening up new possibilities for understanding human diseases. This turning point motivated Dr. Raghavakaimal to shift his focus toward the genetic underpinnings of conditions like diabetes and cancer.

Career Milestones

Dr. Raghavakaimal's move from the fundamental principles of chemistry to the cutting-edge field of genomics represented a significant shift in his career. He quickly recognized genomics' potential to unlock the secrets behind various genetic diseases. This insight was not just theoretical; it shaped his entire research trajectory and led to notable achievements in the field.

His professional milestones reflect his commitment and contributions to genomic programming and cancer research. With an impressive list of over 50 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Raghavakaimal has significantly advanced our understanding of these complex diseases. His leadership roles further exemplify his impact, notably as the Senior Vice-President & Chief Development Officer at the National Foundation for Cancer Research, where he played a crucial role in supporting scientific programs and funding cancer research.

Additionally, as an Associate Professor of Medicine and his directorships at the GCRC Genomics, Proteomics, and Metabolic Core Laboratory and the Mayo Genomic Center Microarray Core Laboratory underscore his pivotal role in fostering research that bridges the gap between laboratory discoveries and patient care.

Research and Innovations

Dr. Raghavakaimals work explores some of the most pressing health issues of our timeliver diseases, diabetes, cancer, and the effects of aging. He does not just examine these conditions through a microscope; he explores them through the vast lens of genomics to understand their roots and how we can better manage or even cure them.

A major part of his research involves peeling back the layers of complexity in cancer. His contributions have filled over 50 publications with insights that help us understand cancer better. For example, his work on genomic programming has highlighted how our genes play a role in cancer, opening doors to new ways to tackle the disease.

Dr. Raghavakaimal has a knack for connecting the dots between science and how we can use that knowledge to make real changes in patient care. His research isn't just about understanding disease; it's about turning that understanding into action, finding new ways to treat or prevent these conditions.

Challenges and Evolutions

When Dr. Raghavakaimal first started, genomic programming was like navigating uncharted waters. There were so many unknowns. The technology was in its infancy, and the complexity of diseases like cancer and diabetes made the research even more daunting.

But as the field has evolved, so has he. With the advent of new technologies and human genome sequencing, we've seen a seismic shift in our understanding of genetics. Dr. Raghavakaimal adapted alongside these changes, embracing new genomic assays and technologies. This adaptability kept him at the forefront of research and allowed him to continue making groundbreaking contributions to the field.

Impact on Cancer Research and Treatment

Dr. Raghavakaimal's work in genomic programming has been a game-changer in cancer research. By getting to the genetic heart of the disease, his research offers a map for understanding cancer not just as a single entity but as a multitude of diseases influenced by our genes.

This deep dive into the genetic aspects of cancer is revolutionizing cancer treatment. We've moved from a one-size-fits-all approach to a tailor-made strategy, where treatments can be personalized based on an individual's genetic makeup. Dr. Raghavakaimal's work has contributed to this shift, offering hope for more effective treatments with fewer side effects.

Imagine a future where cancer treatment is so personalized that it's designed to work perfectly with your body. That's the kind of future Dr. Raghavakaimal's work is helping to buildone where genomics lights the way to better, more personalized care for everyone.

Future Directions and Ethical Considerations

Dr. Raghavakaimal looks toward a future where genomic programming isn't just a part of cancer treatment but is leading the way. He envisions treatments tailored so precisely to an individual's genetic makeup that what we consider groundbreaking today will seem standard tomorrow. But with great power comes great responsibility, especially when handling genetic data.

Dr. Raghavakaimal is deeply aware of the ethical implicationsprotecting patient privacy, consenting processes, and the potential misuse of genetic information are all on his radar. He advocates for a future where advancements in bioinformatics and gene therapy not only push the boundaries of what's possible in cancer treatment but do so with the utmost respect for ethical standards.

Advice to Aspiring Scientists

To those just embarking on their journey in science, Dr. Raghavakaimal offers this guidance: let your motivation be your north star. Finding a mentor who inspires you and respects you as an individual is crucial. The world of science is vast and interconnected, and collaborating across disciplines can open up new avenues of discovery that you might never have found on your own. Dr. Raghavakaimal encourages young scientists to immerse themselves in various techniques and approaches while maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism and curiosity.

Reflecting on his career, Dr. Sreekumar Raghavakaimal emphasizes the transformative potential of genomic programming in the fight against cancer. It's a field that's not just about understanding disease but about rewriting the narrative of diagnosis and treatment. For him, the journey has been about more than just scientific discovery; it's been about the real-world impact of those discoveries on patient care.

Every breakthrough, every piece of new knowledge, brings us one step closer to a world where cancer can be treated more effectively and more compassionately. Through his work, Dr. Raghavakaimal has contributed to advancing genomic research and inspired a new generation to continue the fight against cancer, armed with the power of genomics.

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.
When Bill Gates founded Microsoft with Paul Allen, he rarely took any breaks at all and had no hope that the company would be a success. Talking at Northern Arizona University, the billionaire said, When I was your age, I didnt believe in vacations. I didnt even believe in weekends. I pushed everyone around me to work very long hours. Bill Gates, co-chairman of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, speaks during the 2024 CERAWeek by S&P Global conference in Houston, Texas.(Bloomberg)

I looked at Microsofts parking lot each day to keep track of who is leaving early and who is staying late, he said, adding, As I got olderand especially once I became a fatherI realized that both in terms of doing your best work and having a great life, that that intensity was not always appropriate. Dont wait as long as I did to learn this lesson.

Emphasizing that there is value in being easy on yourself, Bill Gates said, You are not a slacker if youve cut yourself some slack. It took me a long time to learn that.

Here are three top advices from Bill Gates about life and success:

Always ask these two questions when you are solving problems

Bill Gates believes that when you are starting to solve problems you must ask yourself two questions: Who has dealt with this problem well? And what can we learn from them?

Ever since I was a teenager, Ive tackled every big new problem the same way: by starting off with two questions, Gates wrote in a 2020 blog post. I used this technique at Microsoft, and I still use it today. They seem like obvious questions. But sometimes its surprisingly hard to find the answers, he said.

You need to learn to manage your time

Bill Gates said that Warren Buffett taught him how to manage time effectively. He said, Iremember Warren showing me his calendar. Theres nothing on it. I used to have every minute packed on my calendar, and thought that was the only way you could do things. But you can control your time. Sitting and thinking may be a much higher priority than a normal CEO, where there [are] all these demands and you feel like you need to go and see all these people.

Its not a proxy of your seriousness that you fill every minute in your schedule, he added.

Patience is very important

As a business leader, Bill Gates said, Patience is a key element of success owing to the fact that people around you need you to be kinder and calm in cases of difficult decisions.
Cathie Woods Ark Investment Management announced that it holds a stake in OpenAI. In an email to clients, as reported by Bloomberg, the company said, As of April 10, 2024, the Ark Venture Fund invests in OpenAI, referring to its $54 million VC fund. The asset manager added, OpenAI is at the forefront of a Cambrian explosion in artificial intelligence capability." Cathie Wood, CEO of Ark Invest, speaks during an interview.(Reuters)

What Ark Chief Futurist and investment committee member said?

Ark Chief Futurist and investment committee member Brett Winton said, Our fund is relatively new and small and for us, honestly, the incremental progress in the foundation model space has been quicker than even we had anticipated. We think that theres $16 trillion in prospective market cap that will be commanded by foundation model-type companies by 2030.

What you need about Ark Investment Management?

Ark Investment Management fund was launched in September 2022 and invests in both public and private firms. The fund has investments in Elon Musks SpaceX, Epic Games Inc., Freenome Holdings Inc. and Relation Therapeutics. The venture fund is made up of mostly private companies which are almost 80% of the total holdings.

How much money has OpenAI has raised?

OpenAI raised huge sums of money from Microsoft which has put in $13 billion. The company has also allowed some employees to sell shares via a so-called tender offer at an $86 billion valuation and Ark has invested in the company through a special purpose vehicle. Brett Winton said that the startup will represent about 4% of the Ark venture funds holdings while the fund also has a stake in rival Anthropic that accounts for about 5% of the same fund.

Brett Winton said, The Sora model is mind blowing. The acceleration in the pace of innovation is mind-blowing and so we wanted the exposure.
Elon Musks AI startup X.AI Corp. is seeking to raise $3 billion to $4 billion in a deal that would value the company at $18 billion, as per materials sent to investors, Bloomberg reported. The roughly 20-page pitch deck has been circulated among Silicon Valleys venture investing community, the report added. Tesla, X (formerly known as Twitter) and SpaceX's CEO Elon Musk attends the AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park in Bletchley, Britain.(Reuters)

Even people who are close to Elon Musk have have had conversations within their own networks to gauge interest in participating in the deal, a person in the know told Bloomberg.

How will the funding round go about?

The terms and dollar values of the funding round are still unknown and could change, the report claimed. Although some details of the same were reported by The Wall Street journal earlier.

What does the pitch deck show about Elon Musk?

The pitch deck focuses on potential selling points for investors, It also boasts Elon Musks track record at Tesla Inc. and Space Exploration Technologies Corp. As per the pitch deck, xAI will be able to train on the high-quality data from Elon Musks social network X.

This could bode well for the company as having access to data is crucial for building large language models that power AI chatbots. This comes as xAI aims to compete with other well-funded businesses such as Microsoft-backed OpenAI.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk's upcoming visit to India has sparked speculations of the electric car company's entry into Indian markets soon. It is anticipated that Musk might reveal Tesla's investment plans in India during his visit, but that might not be the only thing on the agenda for the billionaire. Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of X(Reuters)

Elon Musk announced this week that he will be visiting India and meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While it sparked rumours that Tesla's plans for India may be revealed this month, speculations on the potential entry of Musk's Starlink network in the country were also there.

The Tesla CEO's India visit is expected to begin on April 21, reported CNBC TV18. The billionaire is likely to remain in the country for 48 hours. He is expected to meet PM Modi, some high-ranking government officials, and is set to make multiple announcements regarding his future business plans in India.

Elon Musk's Starlink threw its hat in the ring for the satellite communication services (satcom) in India, putting him in direct competition with Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, and Bharti Airtel's Sunil Bharti Mittal. All these companies are currently in the race to acquire India's satcom spectrum.

While satcom network hasn't even entered India yet, the race to acquire the network is already tight. This is not the only problem Elon Musk's network is facing in its potential India debut. Starlink is yet to receive its GMPCS (global mobile personal communications by satellite services) licence from the government of India.

The licence procedure hit a snag when the communication ministry asked Musk's company to disclose its ownership details, mandatory under the 2020 amendment made in the foreign investment rules.

While no announcement was made in this regard by Starlink after its licensing issues in India, it is likely that Elon Musk's India visit may bring a new plan for the network's potential debut in the country.
Beleaguered telecom company Vodafone Idea FPO has finally been announced and it has been pegged at 18,000 crore. This Vodafone Idea share sale is the biggest follow-on public offer ever. Considering its massive debt, the company needs to raise funds to stay alive. Vodafone Idea aka Vi is in the fight of its life as it battles fierce rivals Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel for the vast Indian market. The  18000 crore Vodafone Idea FPO will help the company better fight its rivals Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.(REUTERS)

So, what is the Vodafone Idea fund plan?

1. Target

* Vodafone Idea to raise up to 18,000 crore.

2. Share Sale Details

* Shares price band - 10-11 apiece.

* Important Dates - April 18 (offer opens) and April 22 (Offer closes).

3. Vi FPO Significance

* Till now Yes Bank's 15,000 crore sale in 2020 was the largest FPO ever.

* Funding to improve Vodafone Ideas position vis a vis rivals

4. Funds utilisation

* Boost 4G services and clear dues.

* 5G rollout.

5. Current Debt

* Debt of 2.1 lakh crore and quarterly losses.

6. Price Band and Bidding

* Floor price set at 10, cap at 11 per equity share.

* Minimum bid lot: 1,298 equity shares.

7. Preferential Issue

* Raised 2,075 crore from Aditya Birla Group earlier in April.

* Shareholders approved raising up to 20,000 crore in an EGM on April 2.

8. Future Fundraising

* Aim to raise 45,000 crore through equity and debt.

* Focus on ramping up network capex and narrowing gap with peers.

9. Price Hike

* Potential tariff hikes and AGR relief may boost cash flow.

10: Vodafone Idea share price

* Vodafone Idea shares declined nearly 6% on the Bombay Stock Exchange (after FPO announcement). It later rebounded and recovered the lost ground. It closed at 12.96, showing a marginal increase of 0.23%.
A narrow airstrip that doesn't even have an air traffic controller to guide incoming airplanes and whose only infrastructure is a portable toilet and a make-shift office in a container in the midst of miles of barren land bordering Pakistan is an unlikely gateway to the world's largest renewable energy park. Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in Gandhinagar. (PTI)

The airstrip was even smaller in December 2022, when Adani group head Gautam Adani, who was then the second richest person in the world, first used a small aircraft to reach the barren area that didn't even have a pincode and got its name from a village 80-kilometers away.

Read more: When Microsoft employees exposed passwords in major security lapse

The land hardly had any vegetation due to its highly saline soil, leave alone any habitation. But the area with second best solar radiation in the country after Ladakh and wind speeds five times of plains, served as an idle location for a renewable energy park.

An 18-km drive from the airstrip through dusty arid land is the site for his group's Khavda renewable energy park spread over 538 square kilometers (roughly five times the size of Paris).

When Adani first landed at Khavda, he joked if anyone could even find a mosquito in the area, his executives said.

But since then, his group has not just laid solar panels that will convert sun rays into electricity and wind mills to harness wind blowing at the speed of 8 meters per second, but also built colonies for workers, put up desalination plants to make saline water pumped out of 700 meters below ground portable and utilities such as mobile phone repair shops.

Adani Green Energy Ltd, India's largest renewable energy company, will invest about 1.5 lakh crore to generate 30 megawatts of clean electricity at Khavda in Gujarat's Kutch, it's Managing Director Vneet Jaain said.

"We have just now commissioned 2,000 MW (2 GW) of capacity at Khavda and plan to add 4 GW in the current fiscal (financial year ending March 2025) and 5 GW every year thereafter," he said.

The airstrip is used to ferry group executives from Mundra or Ahmedabad a few times a week.

Air traffic controller or ATC at Bhuj, some 160-km away, is the last guide post for airplanes going to Khavda. But it's reach is only till 'Tent City' and pilots are virtually on their own for the last leg of 80-km or so including landing.

"We use visual aids and airplanes' navigation systems to land. When taking off, we convey to Bhuj about the plans over phone," a pilot flying the Adani Group-owned plane said.

The outer flange of the energy park is just one km from the international border with Pakistan. The one-km buffer is manned by BSF.

Executives said the airstrip was built in just 35 days in an area where even tractors had to be modified so they could operate in land that doesn't easily absorb water.

The area has its own set of challenges - heavy dust storms during March to June, no communication and transport infrastructure, nearest habitable area being 80-km away, water not seeping under soil during rainy season, even ground water being saline and it being a restricted zone.

Executives said while some workers from Khavda village, accommodation are being built to house 8,000 workers.

Adani group's renewable energy plans are the most ambitious by any corporate in the country which is targeting to generate 500 GW of electricity from non-fossil sources by 2030, as part of a broader plan of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Khavda at its peak will generate 81 billion units that can power entire nations such as Belgium, Chile and Switzerland, they said.

Jaain said the 30 GW planned at Khavda would comprise 26 GW of solar and 4 GW of wind capacity.

AGEL's existing operational portfolio comprises 7,393 MW solar, 1,401 MW wind and 2,140 MW wind-solar hybrid capacity.

While Khavda region witnesses 2,060 kWh/m2 of high solar irradiation and one of the best wind resources in India, with speeds of 8 meters per second, frequent sandstorms necessitate cleaning of solar panels several times in a day.

Project will be entirely covered with waterless robotic module cleaning systems, executives said. Khavda land belongs to the government, which leased out the site to Adani group for 40 years.

Executives said over the last five years, Adani Green conducted geotechnical investigations, seismic studies, a centrifuge study by Cambridge, resource assessment and land studies, Environment and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD), and a detailed feasibility study, amongst several others, before embarking on the development of this site.

Construction started in 2022. The comprehensive infrastructure development effort included the construction of 100 km roads, 50 km of drainage, establishment of desalination and 3 reverse osmosis (RO) plants with a total capacity of 70 cubic meter per hour to meet the drinking water requirements of the project staff, laying optical fiber cables for 180 km for connectivity, and concrete batching plants.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday highlighted the importance of policies that benefit livelihoods over emotional appeals, asserting that the Congress party works for the welfare of all communities, including the Vokkaligas. Karnataka DCM DK Shivakumar (PTI)(HT_PRINT)

READ | Pralhad Joshi visits Lingayat mutts to get support of seers

Speaking to reporters at his residence, Shivakumar said, "People are smart and they will support a party that helps their livelihood. The Congress party is helping all communities including Vokkaligas. People will support a party that is good for them, the state and the country. They look at livelihood and not emotions".

READ | Karnataka's rebel BJP leader K Eshwarappa to file nomination from Shivamogga tomorrow

Asked why Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji was being dragged into politics, he said, "I have not said that Swamiji has to respond. I only spoke about Kumaraswamy taking the same people who brought down his government. Everyone needs Swamiji's blessings. Our minister Cheluvarayaswamy also had taken some of the Vokkaliga leaders to the Swamiji to seek his blessings. I am not politicising the issue, I only said that Swamiji needs to be respected," Shivakumar said.

READ | BJP MP from Bangalore Central PC Mohan eyes 4th straight win in Lok Sabha polls

On Yediyurappa's statement of Congress not seeking votes because of the Central leadership, Shivakumar said, "Modi did not seek for himself when he came to Shivamogga. He asked on behalf of the candidate. Does that mean that Modi doesn't believe in himself?"

He criticized Yediyurappa for diverting attention from issues like tax devolution, drought relief, and MGNREGA man-days.

READ | PM Modi to visit Mysuru, Mangaluru in Karnataka on April 14 for election campaign

Regarding Yediyurappa's remark equating a vote for Congress with terrorism, Shivakumar deferred to the election commission for a response. Karnataka, which has 28 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in two phases on April 26 and May 7.In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress and JD-S fought together against the BJP and the combine was decimated. The BJP had won a record 25 seats; Congress and JD-S won just one seat each. The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will be held in seven phases starting on April 19. The counting of votes on June 4.

(ANI)
BJP MLA Arabail Shivaram Hebbar's son Vivek Hebbar on Thursday joined the Congress party along with his supporters at Banavasi in Uttara Kannada district. Speculations have been rife about his father Shivaram Hebbar, an MLA from Yellapur assembly segment, also planning to join the Congress.(Gururaj Anjan/X)

After quitting the BJP, Vivek Hebbar joined the party in the presence of state Congress Vice President and former MLC Ivan D'Souza and other local party leaders.

ALSO READ | Karnataka's rebel BJP leader K Eshwarappa to file nomination from Shivamogga tomorrow

Speculations have been rife about his father Shivaram Hebbar, an MLA from Yellapur assembly segment, also planning to join the Congress, ever since he did not turn up for voting during the polls to four seats of the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka held on February 27.

ALSO READ | BJP MP from Bangalore Central PC Mohan eyes 4th straight win in Lok Sabha polls

The senior Hebbar's absence from voting, despite a party whip, had caused embarrassment to the BJP.

He had, however, later attributed his absence to poor health. The BJP had also issued notice to him, which he responded to.

ALSO READ | PM Modi to visit Mysuru, Mangaluru in Karnataka on April 14 for election campaign

Shivaram Hebbar had recently met Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress chief D K Shivakumar, but claimed that the meeting was about water issues in his assembly segment.

The senior BJP leader was earlier with the Congress. He was among 17 Congress-JD(S) legislators, who had quit from their parties, which ultimately led to the collapse of the then H D Kumaraswamy-led coalition government in July 2019.

ALSO READ | Congress will consider backing seer who vowed to take on Pralhad Joshi: Karnataka DCM DK Shivakumar

Shivaram Hebbar had subsequently won the bypoll on a BJP ticket and served as a minister in the then government of the saffron party.

(PTI)
The Delhi police has arrested five people from Bhopal for allegedly extorting 70,000 from a man by posing as police officers, officials said on Friday. The Delhi police has arrested five people from Bhopal for allegedly extorting  70,000 from a man by posing as police officers, officials said on Friday.(File photo)

The five accused have been identified as Vishwajeet Giri (25), Sudhir Pal (39), Ravi Kushwah (27), Kunji Lal Ahirvar (45), and Maya Singh (28) and were arrested on Wednesday, they said.

The matter came to light when the police received a complaint from Deepak Kumar Gupta on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, police said.

"Gupta stated that he got a call on his mobile phone. The caller introduced himself as a police officer. The caller told Gupta that his son, along with his three friends was under his custody,"Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rohini) G S Sidhu said.

The caller demanded 70,000 in lieu of release of his son," the DCP said.

When Gupta asked the caller to let him talk to his son, the caller allegedly made another person with a similar voice talk to him, DCP said.

ALSO READ| Gurugram Police recovers 1.32 crore from cyber fraudsters, returns it to victim

Following this, Gupta transferred 70,000 to the bank account provided by the caller. He later found that his son was not in his custody and approached the police, Sidhu said.

During the investigation, the police traced the money trail and found that the accused were operating from Bhopal, he said.

A police team was sent to Bhopal and nabbed the five accused, he said.

One of the accused, Vishwajeet Giri disclosed that he used to arrange bank accounts in Bhopal to receive the cheated money. He used to lure poor people by giving them some money in exchange of their documents to open bank accounts. He would then use these accounts to transfer money to a Bihar-based kingpin," DCP said.

The team recovered 40 mobile phones, 41 SIM cards, 10 debit cards, and 18 bank documents and passbooks from their possession, he said.

Efforts are being made to arrest the kingpin as well, he added.
A Delhi court on Friday sent Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 in the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy. The agency sought her custody remand for five days after they submitted that she was one of the key conspirators. (ANI file photo)

Kavitha was arrested on Thursday by CBI from Tihar jail, where she was lodged in judicial custody in the parallel money laundering case.

The agency sought her custody remand for five days after they submitted that she was one of the key conspirators.

The CBI had earlier gone to the Tihar Jail on April 6, after taking permission from special judge Kaveri Baweja on April 5, and quizzed her while she was in judicial custody.

Advocates Vikram Chaudhary along with Nitesh Rana and Deepak Nagar opposed the application stating that the evidence that is being claimed by the agency are old.

Also Read: After ED action, CBI arrests BRSs K Kavitha in Tihar jail

These evidence and statements on which CBI is relying are much older and have no proximity link or connection with the necessity to arrest, Chaudhary argued.

They also argued that all rules and forms of law have been violated.

Principles of natural justice have been given a complete go-by, he added.

It was also averred that section 41 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has not been followed by the agency as no grounds of arrest were informed of or communicated to her.

They also pointed out that the timing of the arrest is also very crucial as Kavitha is a sitting MLC in Telangana and is a renowned leader of a national political party and the Lok Sabha polls in Telangana are about to begin.

The court after hearing both parties, sent Kavitha to CBI custody for a period of three days. She will now be produced before the court on April 15 at 10am.

Kavitha was initially arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 15 from her residence at Hyderabad and has been in judicial custody since March 26.

She is one of the most high-profile arrests made in the case, after the former Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh  both senior AAP leaders  were arrested at different points last year and the chief minister of Delhi Kejriwal, who was arrested on March 21, this year.

The Supreme Court on April 2 had granted bail to AAP leader Singh.

The court had, earlier this week, also dismissed an interim bail application moved by her citing her minor sons examination while noting that the materials placed on record show her active involvement in the offence and that she was involved in destruction of evidence and influencing the witnesses.

ED has referred to her as a key person in irregularities surrounding the excise policy.

She has also been alleged to be one of the persons in the South Group who paid advance kickbacks of 100 crore to the leaders of AAP to get favourable changes done in the excise policy. She was also alleged to be a shareholder in the company Indospirits.

To date, she has not been named in any of the chargesheets filed by the CBI or the ED.
Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann is scheduled to meet Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently lodged in Tihar jail, on April 15 inside the prison complex, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) functionaries aware of the matter said on Friday. Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann. (HT file photo)

Also Read | Delhi, Punjab cops to meet today, chalk out plan for Kejriwal-Mann meet

If all goes as per schedule. this will be first meeting between Kejriwal and Mann since the Delhi chief minister was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21. An earlier meeting between the two chief ministers, along with AAP Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Singh, which was originally proposed for Wednesday, was postponed, with jail officials citing a mix-up in the names and security concerns.

While Singh said that the meeting was not allowed despite jail officials issuing a token, officials said that the proposed meeting was called off at the last minute because of a gaffe in how the appointment was booked.

Also Read | No Mann-Kejriwal meeting; gaffe over names: Officials

Kejriwal, the AAP national convener, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in connection with a money laundering probe pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22. He is currently lodged in jail number 2 in the Tihar prison complex.

Every prisoner in Delhis jails is entitled to submit the names of 10 people, who can visit them twice a week  with the caveat that only three visitors are allowed to meet the prisoner at a time. The names of these people must be submitted to the jail superintendent for verification.

Asked about the proposed meet on April 15, director general (prisons) Sanjay Baniwal said, Mann is the chief minister of Punjab, so we have made arrangements according to protocol. Since we dont know about his predetermined schedule, we have asked the officials to confirm the date of his meeting with the Delhi CM on either April 15 or 16. He can meet Kejriwal on either of these two dates.

AAP MPs from Punjab meet Sunita Kejriwal

AAP parliamentarians from Punjab met Sunita Kejriwal, the wife of Arvind Kejriwal, at the chief ministers official residence late on Thursday evening, and said they stand in solidarity with the party convener. In a statement, AAP said it was the first meeting between AAP MPs from Punjab and Sunita Kejriwal after the chief ministers arrest.

During the meeting, the MPs said that they stand with the party with utmost devotion and honesty. We are all united in this hour of crisis. The MPs said that there is tremendous anger among the public against the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal. The public will reply to his arrest by voting in Delhi and Punjab, Jail ka Jawab Vote Se, the AAP said in a statement.
Police here recovered 1.32 crore of defrauded money from cyber fraudsters and returned it to the victim who was duped by them, officials said on Thursday. An FIR was registered and seven people, including two employees of Yes Bank, were arrested, police said.

According to the Gurugram cyber police, a man had filed a complaint to the cyber east police station on February 3 alleging that fraudsters duped him of 1.32 crore on the pretext of investing in the stock market through WhatsApp.

An FIR was registered and seven people, including two employees of Yes Bank, were arrested, police said.

The arrested accused were identified as Pinki, Vikar, Prakash, Dharmender, Suraj and Pooja, they said.

The defrauded amount was returned to the complainant at the office of ACP cyber Priyanshu Diwan on Thursday, police said.

"The victim expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the hard work of Inspector Savit Kumar and his team. It is a big achievement for our cyber police, ACP Diwan said.
Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday said there was an atmosphere of fear in western Uttar Pradesh earlier and Hindus were migrating from the region then but now, under the Yogi government, it is the goons who are fleeing. Union home minister Amit Shah at an election meeting in Moradabad on Friday. (ANI PHOTO)

He further said businessmen were forced to leave their land, shops and houses behind back then, but now there is an exodus of the mafia from the region. His comment appeared to be a reference to the alleged exodus of Hindus from Kairana in western Uttar Pradesh during the Samajwadi Party regime.

Today, goons are migrating instead of Hindus. Yogi Adityanath has worked to improve the law-and-order situation in the entire Uttar Pradesh within seven years. Today, there is rule of law in Uttar Pradesh. Mafia rule has ended, Shah said at an election rally in Moradabad, which goes to polls in the first phase of the Lok Sabha election on April 19.

Traders are doing their business and women are feeling safe (in the region), Shah said. The SP has fielded Ruchi Veera from Moradabad this time against the BJPs Sarvesh Singh.

In 2019, the seat went to the SPs ST Hasan, who was supported by the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal back then.

In an apparent reference to the Muzaffarnagar-Shamli riots of 2013, Shah said, In 2013, riots, cow smuggling and the sway of goons were the now in western Uttar Pradesh. Now, instead of fear, riots and cow smuggling, the work of the One District One Product has started. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has worked to strengthen the law and order situation in the entire state.

Shah targeted the Samajwadi Party, the Congress and the Bahujan Samaj Party for continually opposing the Ram temple, which was completed under the Modi government.

After 500 years, on this Ram Navami, Ram Lalla will celebrate his birthday in his grand temple in Ayodhya instead of a tent, Shah said.

The opposition was invited for the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple, but they did not participate. They were afraid of their vote bank, he said.

He further said that under the Bharatiya Janata Party government, not only the Ram temple but also the Kashi Vishwanath temple was rejuvenated. Apart from this, reconstruction of Badrinath and Kedarnath Dham was also done, he said.

Urging voters to make the BJP victorious on all 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, Shah said the biggest reason for Modi becoming Prime Minister in 2014 and 2019 was Uttar Pradesh, which gave the BJP 73 seats in 2014 and 65 seats in 2019.

In 2014 and 2019, the biggest reason for PM Modi becoming the PM was Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh gave 73 seats in 2014 and 65 seats in 2019 and hence PM Modi became the PM with a full majority. We have to make him PM for the third term. Iss baar na 73 chalegi na 65 chalegi, iss baar 80 ki 80 seat Modi ki jholi me jayengi (Not 73 or 65, this time all 80 U.P. seats will fall into Modis kitty), Amit Shah said.

Further speaking about his governments achievements, Shah said, In the last 10 years, PM Modi has brought the countrys economy from 11th position to fifth position (in the world), now you make him PM for the third time, he will make the countrys economy the third largest in the world. Its a Modi guarantee.

Sharpening his attack on the Congress, Shah said, In 10 years, Modiji eliminated terrorism and Naxalism from the country. When the Congress was in power, alia-malia-jamalia (anyone) could come here every day from Pakistan and explode bombs.

Kisi ke maathe per joon nahi rengtee thee (nobody was bothered by this), he said.

When Modi came to power, they committed the same mistakes in Uri and Pulwama, but they had forgotten that the Manmohan Singh government was not here anymore, Shah said.

He recalled that the armed forces carried out retaliatory strikes inside Pakistan within days of these terror attacks.

Pakistan ke ghar mein ghusskar aatankwaadiyo ka safaayaa karne ka kaam Narendra Modi je ne kiyaa (the Modi government eliminated the terrorists by entering their homes, he said.

Mentioning Uttar Pradeshs development momentum, Shah said, Airports are being built all over U.P. Expressways and six-lanes are being developed. The government is working to provide electricity to 80 lakh villagers. Modi government has done the work of providing free treatment up to 5 lakh to more than three crore poor people. Apart from this, 2 crore toilets were built in 10 years; 14 crore beneficiaries are getting the benefits.

He also attacked the Congress over its handling of the Kashmir issue, saying the party pampered Article 370 like a child in its lap for decades till it was scrapped.

He hit out at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for suggesting recently that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should not be speaking about Kashmir while addressing rallies in other states.

Tell me isnt Kashmir ours? Khargeji of the Congress asks what do people of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have to do with Kashmir, Shah said, adding that every child of Moradabad is ready to give his life for Kashmir.

For 70 years, the Congress pampered Article 370 like an illegitimate child in its lap, Shah said, referring to the special status enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir under the Article.

You made Modiji the prime minister for the second time and he abolished Article 370 on August 5, 2019. Today our tricolour is flying there with pride. Under the leadership of Modiji, Kashmir has been united with India forever, Amit Shah said.
Four members of the banned militant group Kamtapur Liberation Organisation (KLO) were arrested in Assam for their alleged connection in the grenade attack which happened in Kokrajhar area in December last year. According to police, an operation was launched around four months back. (Representative file photo)

According to police, an operation was launched around four months back, immediately after the alleged grenade attack.

After an exhaustive four-month operation conducted across Lower Assam, the police successfully apprehended the four KLO cadres involved in the attack, officials said.

Also Read:Two women among three held for murdering local store owner in Ambala

Superintendent of police (SP), Kokrajhar, Pushpraj Singh said that in December last year, several complaints of extortion by KLO cadres were reported but on December 9, a grenade was thrown on a shop.

Based on a complaint by the owner of the shop, a case was registered and these four were identified. We have now arrested them, and further investigation will follow, Singh said.

The arrested KLO cadres have been identified as Kanak Adhikari (26), Arjun Roy (19), Prasenjit Roy (26) and Anupam Roy (34). All of them are residents of Kokrajhars Dotma area, according to police records.

The SP said that they have been arrested under several sections of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has so far attached properties worth 365 crore in West Bengals alleged teacher recruitment scam, the agency said in a statement on Friday. The Calcutta high court in 2022 ordered a federal probe in the case. (X)

Three ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislators, including former education minister Partha Chatterjee, have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the scam. TMC member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee has been among those questioned in the case.

The statement said fresh immovable properties worth 230.6 crore have been provisionally attached. Plots of land and a flat held under the names of Prasanna Kumar Roy and Santi Prasad Sinha and the companies they controlled have been attached. Roy allegedly collected money from the candidates while Sinha was the then advisor of the West Bengal School Service Commission.

The Calcutta high court in May 2022 ordered a federal probe into appointments allegedly made in state-run schools for monetary gains.
After Misa Bharti -- the daughter of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and party's Lok Sabha candidate -- sparked controversy over her statement that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be put behind bars if the INDIA alliance comes to power, on Friday, she sought to cool down backlash. RJD MP Misa Bharti(Aftab Alam Siddiqui/ANI)

RJD Rajya Sabha MP Misa Bharti said: ...I made a remark on the verdict of the Supreme Court on electoral bonds. I said that if our government comes to power, we will conduct an inquiry and punish the accused...My statement is being twisted. The media is setting the agenda of BJP, ANI reported.

What did Misa Bharti say about PM Modi?

RJD leader Bharti had said that BJP leaders, including PM Modi, will face imprisonment if the Opposition's INDIA alliance comes to power.

"We are talking about the implementation of MSP and he (PM Modi) sees appeasement in that. He always accuses our family of corruption whenever he arrives here (Bihar). If the people of this country give the INDIA alliance a chance (to form the government), then from PM Modi to BJP leaders, they will be behind bars," Bharti said.

ALSO READ- Video: After 'fish party' row, Tejashwi Yadav hosts orange party aboard helicopter

Stop daydreaming: BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad attacks Bharti

"If you threaten the prime minister, action will be taken. Stop daydreaming, the results will be out on June 4th, and it will surpass 400," Prasad cautioned Bharti.

The politician also took a swipe at Misa Bharti's family.

"What has happened to Misa Bharti? The woman's father (Lalu Yadav) has been convicted in the fodder scam. I warn her not to make such statements. Your family is immersed in corruption," Prasad added.

ALSO READ- Corruption hits all, action by agencies will not stop: Modi

Misa Bharti to fight from Pataliputra Lok Sabha seat

Misa Bharti is contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha election from the Pataliputra constituency against BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav.

Lok Sabha elections equation in Bihar

 Bihar's Lok Sabha elections will span seven phases, encompassing 40 seats. Phase 1 will cover voting in four seats, with Phase 2 to Phase 5 seeing elections for five seats each. Phases 6 and 7 will feature polling for eight seats each.

ALSO READ- Lok Sabha elections: Can Tejashwi Yadav, anti-incumbency upset BJP's 'mission 40' in Bihar?

 In the 2019 elections, the NDA coalition, comprising BJP, JDU (Janata Dal-United), and Lok Jan Shakti Party (LJP), clinched victory in 39 seats. While, the Mahagathbandhan, led by RJD, Congress and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP), got just one seat.

 In the 2014 elections, BJP secured 22 seats, LJP won 6, RJD clinched 4 and INC managed 2 seats in Bihar.
With the Directorate of Government Examinations, Andhra Pradesh declaring the AP Inter 2nd Year Results 2024 today, the focus now shifts to applying to a college of your choice and pursuing the dream course. Students who passed the exam successfully and are interested in taking up engineering as a choice of study in the next phase can apply to top colleges pan India. However, four colleges in Andhra Pradesh have been recognized by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) under the Ministry of Education for the engineering courses offered by them. AP Inter Results 2024: If you are interested in pursuing engineering in Andhra Pradesh, check out the top institutes in the state and the courses they offer. (HT File Image).

In this article, we will look at the four colleges and their NIRF 2023 rankings, apart from programmes offered by them.

Also read: AP Inter Result 2024: BIEAP 1st year, 2nd year results declared

1.Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KL College of Engineering)

Located at Vaddeswaram in Andhra Pradesh, the KL College of Engineering was ranked 44 among engineering colleges across India by the NIRF in 2023. As informed on its official website, the institution is situated eight kilometers from Vijayawada city and built within a rural setting of verdant green fields.

The KL College of Engineering offers a plethora of B. Tech programmes including Bio-Technology, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, Civil Engineering, Computer Science & Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Internet of Things. Admissions is currently open at the institute for the 2024-25 session.

Visit the official website kluniversity.in for more details.

2. Indian Institute of Technology, Tirupati

With an NIRF 2023 ranking of 59, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Tirupati is located at Yerpedu in Andhra Pradesh. The IIT Tirupati is also a top choice among engineering aspirants for it offers a range of B.Tech programmes. These include Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

As informed on the official website, the programmes follow a credit-based curriculum for 8 semesters, and each course is evaluated on a 10-point grading system with letter grades. The CGPA is calculated at the end of each semester, according to the IIT Tirupati website.

Visit the official website at iittp.ac.in/btech.

Also read: AP Inter Supply Exam 2024: BIEAP IPASE May exam dates announced, check here

3. Vignan's Foundation for Science, Technology and Research

The Vignan's Foundation for Science, Technology, and Research is located at Guntur in Andhra Pradesh. The institution is ranked 85 as per NIRF in 2023. Currently, admissions are open for B.Tech for the 2024-25 session.

Some of the B.Tech programmes offered include Agriculture Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer science and Engineering, and Electrical and Electronics Engineering, among others.

Notably, to be eligible for admissions, candidates have to take the Vignan's Scholastic Aptitude Test (V-SAT), a computer-based online test conducted on an all-India basis.

To know more, visit the official website at vignan.ac.in.

4. AU College of Engineering

The Andhra University (AU) College of Engineering is located at Vishakhapatnam and is ranked 94 in the NIRF 2023 list. Among the undergraduate B.Tech programmes offered by the institution include Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, and Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.

Alternatively, aspirants can also opt for the UG Integrated Dual Degree Programs in Engineering that offers B.Tech + M.Tech Computer Science and Engineering and B.Tech + M.Tech Electronics and Communication Engineering.

Visit the official website at andhrauniversity.edu.inv for more information.

Also read: AP Inter Result 2024: Check pass percentage, key details inside

Notably, along with the results of 2nd Year, the BIEAP also released the 1st year results today. The results can be checked by candidates on the official website of BIEAP at bie.ap.gov.in and examresult.ap.nic.in.
Harvard University plans to reinstate the SAT or ACT as requirements for admission, following some of its Ivy League peers in returning to standardized test scores after a pause that was prompted by the pandemic. HT Image

The new policy will apply to students seeking admission in fall 2025, Harvard said in a statement Thursday, backtracking from an earlier decision to make testing optional for several more years.

Harvards change underscores a broader rethinking about standardized tests at elite schools, which are evaluating the best ways to recruit students from all backgrounds after the Supreme Court ruling last June that they cant consider race in admissions. Dartmouth, Yale and Brown all said recently that they would bring back testing, saying it can give admissions officers greater context about whether less-privileged applicants are likely to succeed at the schools.

Fundamentally, we know that talent is universal, but opportunity is not, Hopi Hoekstra, dean of Harvards Faculty of Arts and Sciences, said in the statement. With this change, we hope to strengthen our ability to identify these promising students, and to give Harvard the opportunity to support their development as thinkers and leaders who will contribute to shaping our world.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvards neighbor in Cambridge, restored test requirements two years ago. The University of Pennsylvania retained its test-optional policy for the next year.

Testing opponents have long argued that the requirement favors wealthier students who can afford tutoring and preparation courses. Prestigious colleges started to bypass testing when it became impractical at the height of the pandemic as test centers closed.

Since then, however, some of the most elite US schools have grown concerned that not using tests made it harder to identify talented students from less privileged backgrounds. A report last year from Harvard professors including economist Raj Chetty found that standardized tests were important in identifying those students.

SAT/ACT scores and academic credentials are highly predictive of post-college success, they said in the study.

The Harvard Crimson first reported the schools decision on testing.

Harvard, the oldest and richest US college, said in a statement that test scores are considered along with other information about an applicants experiences, skills, talents, and contributions to their communities. The school also assesses academic qualifications relative to students at applicants high schools. Yale said when it reinstated testing that scores can help establish a students academic preparedness for college-level work.

Yale, MIT and Harvard are among the schools stepping up efforts to recruit students from rural backgrounds who havent typically applied to elite colleges. Having a test score lets colleges know more context about an applicant compared to peers from their high school. Harvard said in December that students from rural communities and small towns made up 10% of those accepted to date.

Harvard is bringing back testing requirements while grappling with changes in the recruitment landscape. The school said last month that 54,008 students sought admission for next falls freshman class. It was the second consecutive year that undergraduate applications declined. Theyve dropped from 61,220 two years ago, a spike that was helped by scrapping the testing requirements.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
AP Inter Results 2024 on HT: The Board of Intermediate Education Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP) has released AP Inter 1st and 2nd year results today, April 12. The AP Inter result press conference was held at 11 am the result is available on resultsbie.ap.gov.in. Additionally, the AP Inter results will be available on the HT Portal too. AP Inter results 2024 live updates. AP Inter result 2024: Check IPE 1st, 2nd year scores on HT Portal

If the board website loads slowly after the result announcement, students who are not able to check their marks can use the HT Portal to view results quickly. There is also an option to register early. By doing this, they will receive alerts on their mobile phones as soon as the results are hosted.

AP Inter 1st year result 2024 on HT Portal

AP Inter 2nd year result 2024 on HT Portal

To check AP Inter result on both the BIEAP website and the HT Portal, students will be required to use their 1st or 2nd year hall ticket numbers. After logging in using this information, scorecards/online marks memo will be displayed on the board website.

How to check AP Inter results 2024 on HT Portal

Open hinustantimes.com/education/board-exams on your web browser

Open the Andhra Pradesh (AP) board page.

Go to the AP Inter 1st or 2nd year result page, as required.

Enter your login details and submit (Register if visiting before the result announcement to get an alert).

Check your AP Inter result.

The AP Inter 1st and 2nd year exams were held in March. The IPE 1st year exam was conducted from March 1 to 19 and 2nd year exams were from March 2 to 20. Around 10 lakh students have appeared in the exams and are waiting for the results.
BIE AP Inter results 2024: The Board of Intermediate Examination Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP) has declared the Inter 1st year (Class 11) and second year (Class 12) results today. Both AP Inter 1st and 2nd year results was announced on April 12 at 11 am. AP Inter result 2024 live updates. AP Inter results 2024 for 1st, 2nd year today on resultsbie.ap.gov.in(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The BIEAP has conducted a press conference at 11 am to announce the Inter result.

In the result press conference, pass percentage of IPE 1st year and 2nd year and other important details is also announced. The tentative timeline for supplementary examinations may be mentioned in the press conference.

Once declared, students can check AP Inter 1st, 2nd year results using their roll numbers and dates of births. Here is the list of official websites and steps to follow:

AP Inter result 2024: List of official websites

resultsbie.ap.gov.in

examsresults.ap.nic.in

results.bie.ap.gov.in

results.apcfss.in

bie.ap.gov.in

How to check AP Inter 1st, 2nd year results 2024?

Go to the result website for IPE 1st and 2nd year examination. Open the result link given on the home page for your class. Enter your roll number and date of birth. Check your marks memo and download it.

The physical copy of the Intermediate 1st and 2nd year marks sheet will be shared with schools and students can collect it a few days after the result announcement.

The examination was held in March. The first year examination started on March 1 and ended on March 19, 2024. The papers were held in single shifts  from 9 am to 12 pm.

The second-year examination took place from March 2 to March 20, 2024.

Practical examinations were conducted from February 11 to February 20 for General courses and from February 5 to February 20 for vocational courses.
The O.P. Jindal Global University has been ranked as the top law school in India and 72nd globally as per the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 for Law and Legal Studies. O.P. Jindal Global University has been ranked as the top Law School in India and 72nd globally as per the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.

As per the QS World University Rankings, O.P. Jindal Global University ranked number one law university in India for the 5th consecutive year, whereas it jumped to 72nd place from the 84th rank secured last year.

The rankings are given by QS based on certain criteria including academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations, and H-index (an index that measures the stability of impact and quality of work published by the institutions scholars), among other factors.

Also read: AP Inter result 2024: Girls outshine boys in both 1st and 2nd year results

A press release informed that the JGLS even surpassed global institutions such as the University of Nottingham, University of Texas at Austin, Waseda University, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Boston University, among others.

Naveen Jindal, Founding Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, expressed pride over the achievement and said that the consistency with which JGLS has been featured as the countrys top law school in the prestigious QS World University Rankings explained that it has never wavered in its mission of providing world-class education in India.

He added that the emergence of JGLS as Indias No. 1 law school in just over a decade of its existence signifies the thirst for quality education among the youth of the country.

Also read: NMC issues notice, says no new medical college approved or seats increased so far; urges all to not fall for fake news

Prof (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, the Founding Vice Chancellor of O.P. Jindal University highlighted that JGLS is the only law school in India to be featured among the TOP-100 in the world.

JGLS has only been established 15 years ago with 10 faculty members and 100 students in 2009, Today, it has over 5,500 students and over 550 full-time faculty members. It has achieved such distinction in a remarkably short time due to its pedagogy, teaching standards, research outcomes, and international partnerships which has made it the premier law school in the country today, said Dr Kumar.

Meanwhile, apart from JGLS, two other Law Schools from India made it to the list this year. These include the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru which has been ranked 151-200, and the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, ranked 201-250.

Also read: JAC 10th, 12th Result 2024 Date: Jharkhand Matric, Inter results this month
In the mid-1980s, Dan Lynch had the simple but revolutionary idea of inviting computer experts to connect their machines together at a conference. That launched Interop and set the stage for the internet. Courtesy Lynch family

Dan Lynch knew the internet was coming. What he didnt know was that his own unemployment was also coming. When those two moments intersected in his life, in the mid-1980s, Lynch, a government scientist, took a leap of faith and launched his own tech conference at a hotel in Monterey.

He was acting on a hunch that if he brought together the people involved in creating the underlying protocols behind the internet, something good would come of it  and it did. Five years after starting Interop, as the tech conference/trade show/geekathon came to be known, Lynch sold it for $25 million, later leaving Silicon Valley for the Napa Valley to become a winemaker.

It was here, at his home in St. Helena, that Lynch died on March 30. Cause of death was kidney failure, said his daughter, Julie Lynch-Sasson of Charleston, S.C. He was 82.

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Interop was the biggest deal of the year for anybody involved in building the internet, and it could not have happened without Dan, said Carl Malamud, author of Exploring the Internet, a foundational treatise published in 1992. He was the center of the thing. He changed the life of a whole generation of internet people.

Born and raised in Southern California, Lynch came to the valley when it was still apricot orchards, having been hired in 1973 as director of computing facilities at SRI International in Menlo Park. When startup fever hit in the 1980s, Lynch caught it and left the academic and corporate world to work for several unsuccessful ventures, before decided hed have to make it on his own.

Having a third wife, two ex-wives and four kids to support was an additional incentive. At one point we werent sure we were going to have a roof over his head, said his daughter.

The company he started, Advanced Computing Environments, produced the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol Interoperability Conference, a mouthful that was blessedly shortened to Interop. He was also the co-founder of CyberCash, a web payment and processing service, and founder of Lynch Enterprises, a venture capital firm.

Wherever he went, he conveyed a boyish charm, due largely to his aviator glasses and trademark bangs. When he became a CEO his PR team got him to slick his hair back, like Michael Douglas in Wall Street, but it didnt last, said his daughter. His style was comfortable and casual. He even had executives from IBM show up at one of his conferences in Hawaiian shirts.

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In 2019, Lynch was inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame for his role in developing the rules of Internet Protocol and its subsequent commercialization. In an interview conducted for his induction ceremony, Lynch explained in his simplest terms the motivation behind Interop.

Youve made it so the world can have this code but you havent told them how to use it. Let me put together a workshop and invite all the implementation teams from around the country, he said. Ill take the 10 guys from your research world, who invented all this stuff, and have them explain what works and what doesnt.

Wherever Dan Lynch went, he conveyed a boyish charm, due largely to his aviator glasses and trademark bangs. When he became a CEO his PR team got him to slick his hair back, like Michael Douglas in Wall Street, but it didnt last, said his daughter. Courtesy Lynch family

Not only did that simple plan work, but the concept worked beyond what Lynch could have hoped. Within just a few years, Interop had grown to fill the new San Jose Convention Center, said Malamud, who was involved in the earliest iterations of what became the internet.

Interop was the first time you could walk into a huge showroom room and see the internet, with hundreds and hundreds of nodes all working together, said Malamud, who was so eager to discuss Lynchs life that he took a call in India at 6 a.m. There had been trade shows before that and they were really boring, Malamud said. What Dan did was get hundreds of volunteer engineers involved in putting the show together and building a network in 24 hours.

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Among the innovations at Interop was a live talk show broadcast across the web  effectively the first demonstration of internet radio. There was also the first demo of sending a fax over the internet at a conference, a precursor to telephone calls traversing the net instead of the conventional phone system.

When Malamud published his book, Lynch bought 5,000 copies to give to Interop attendees. That would not be enough nowadays. The first conference drew maybe 200 participants, and as it grew Interop has been produced in San Francisco, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Paris and, since 1994, in Tokyo, where it drew 50,000 participants in June.

There was a nascent industry that was forming at the time Dan started these events, said Ole Jacobsen, editor and publisher of the Internet Protocol Journal. That industry produced the building blocks of the internet. Dan was the visionary who saw the opportunity to help this industry get underway.

There was a nascent industry that was forming at the time Dan started these events, said Ole Jacobsen, right, editor and publisher of the Internet Protocol Journal. Dan was the visionary who saw the opportunity to help this industry get underway. Courtesy Lynch family

Daniel Courtney Lynch was born Aug. 16, 1941, in Los Angeles. His father, Thomas, worked in public relations at Kaiser Steel and his mother, Irene, was a high school teacher with a masters degree in chemistry. Lynch had no trouble with school, allowing him enough spare time for side projects. He once figured out the math to calculate the interior space in a Chinese lantern.

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He graduated from Upland High School, in San Bernardino County, in 1959, and Loyola University, where he earned a bachelors degree in math and philosophy in 1963. He went on to earn a masters degree in math from UCLA in 1965. Hed been on an ROTC scholarship, which necessitated active duty that he served out as a computer programmer at Holloman Air Force Base near Alamogordo, N.M.

He left the Air Force as a captain in 1969 and got a civilian job as a computer programmer at Lockheed Corp., the Sunnyvale aerospace outfit. That brought him to Northern California, where he was able to transition to SRI, running the research labs computer center.

In 1980, he left SRI to return to Los Angeles as director of the Information Processing Division at the Information Sciences Institute, a unit of USC based in Marina Del Rey. He was the team lead of a group of scientists who were working to translate a government computer protocol into what eventually became the internet.

In 1984, he moved back to Cupertino to be near his kids and private business. His marriages to Bernice Fijak, Georgia Lee Sutherland and Karen Dement all ended in divorce.

By the late 1990s, Lynch had accumulated 1,000 acres at separate locations in the Napa Valley, to grow and bottle Syrah and Cabernet. In 2003, Lynch began splitting time between homes in St. Helena and Los Altos Hills, where he continued to operate Lynch Enterprises.

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By the late 1990s, Lynch had accumulated 1,000 acres at separate locations in the Napa Valley, to grow and bottle Syrah and Cabernet. In 2003, he began splitting time between homes in St. Helena and Los Altos Hills. Courtesy Lynch family

One beneficiary was entrepreneur Christine Maxwell, who was launching an internet search engine in the mid-1990s and got a call from Lynch.

Im leaving a check pinned to my fence, he told her over the phone, and if you dont hurry up and come get it, it will blow away.

She drove straight from her office in Berkeley, and had that five-figure check within 45 minutes. That was the first investment in the Magellan search engine, which rocketed to success and was then acquired by Excite.
After a very, very long wait of three decades, an Indian movie would play at the top competition slot of the up coming Cannes Film Festival: Writer-director Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light. This was announced at a press conference on Thursday in Paris by Iris Knobloch, president of the festival, and Thierry Fremaux, general-delegate. (Also read: George Lucas to receive honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival) Payal Kapadia has directed All We Imagine as Light.

A rare achievement for Payal Kapadia

Interestingly, Kapadia is one of the four female directors in competition. The number was seven last year.

Kapadia is not new to the festival on the French Riviera, once seductively described as the playground for the rich and the famous. In 2021, her A Night of Not Knowing Nothing won the Golden Eye Award for Best Documentary playing in the Directors Fortnight, an important Cannes sidebar. About campus trouble, the plot unfolds through letters written by a student to her lover. Earlier in 2017, Kapadia's Afternoon Clouds was part of the Cinefondation section, which also takes place during the Festival along with the Critics' Week and Directors Fortnight.

Kapadia (30) will be aiming for the coveted Palme d'Or along with some of the most celebrated names in world cinema: Francis Ford Coppola (Megalopolis), Sean Baker (Anora), Yorgos Lanthimos (Kinds Of Kindness), David Cronenberg (The Shrouds), Andrea Arnold (Bird), Paul Schrader (Oh Canada) Jacques Audiard (Emilia Perez) and Paulo Sorrentino (Parthenope) to mention some.

An Indo-French production, All We Imagine As Light, talks about Prabha, a nurse, who receives an unexpected gift from her long estranged husband that makes her uneasy. In the meantime, her younger friend and roommate, Anu, is desperately trying to find a quiet spot to be with her lover. Eventuality, the two women take a road trip to a beach town where they find space for their dreams and desires to flow.

The festival had picked Shaji N. Karun's Swaham in 1994 to vie for the top Palme d'Or. About 11 years before that in 1983, Mrinal Sen's Bengali language Kharij was part of Cannes Competition and clinched the jury prize.

Who else got the honours?

In a double bonanza for India, British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suris debut feature, Santosh, has been selected for Un Certain Regard, which is the most important segment after competition. The movie is said to be character-driven neo-noir set on the plains of northern India with a cast led by Shahana Goswami.

In the 77 years that Cannes has been showcasing cinema from round the globe, only a handful of Indian movies have been able to get into Competition. Chetan Anands Neecha Nagar (1946), V Shantarams Amar Bhoopali (1952), Raj Kapoor's Awaara (1953), Satyajit Rays Parash Pathar (1958), MS Sathyus Garm Hava (1974) and Mrinal Sens Kharij (1983) are the titles that have not been eroded by time.

Neecha Nagar is the only title from India to have clinched the Palme d'Or.
Mumbai, Actor Vidya Balan, who played Manjulika in the 2007 hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa, says it was the shortest time she took to say yes to a movie and that too without reading the script. HT Image

Balan had seen the original Malayalam movie "Manichitrathazhu" and when Priyadarshan offered her the role, done by Shobhna in the original, she jumped at the chance.

The Hindi version featured Akshay Kumar as a pyshcharatist and Balan as Avni, who suffers from dissociative identity disorder. Shiney Ahuja played her husband in the movie.

Balan is all set to make a return to the third part of the comedy horror movie.

"I remember I went to meet Priyan sir . He was shooting an ad with Sunny Deol in Mumbai, so he said, Can you come to the set and meet me? I had watched the original Malayalam film Manichitrathazhu as a kid, and I loved Shobana but I was also scared of her, and I've not watched the film ever again.

"But when he offered the film to me, I said, Wow, are you offering me that film?, and I said yes instantly. There was no script or anything because I had seen the original. It was probably the shortest meeting I had for a film and that was the shortest time I took to say yes to a film because I loved the original, the actor told PTI in an interview.

Balan said she relied completely on Priyadarshan to play the role of Avni, who starts to believe in the legend of Manjulika, a Bengali dancer.

Narrating the story behind a famous scene in the movie where Avni momentarily transitions into Manjulika and ends up lifting a heavy bed, Balan credited Priyadarshan for his effortless direction.

We made the film 'haste khelte' and the director knew exactly what he wanted and he knew how to get that work out of us. People talk about that scene from the film... I went to set and we were doing a scene and Priyan sir said this is the next scene , I said, okay, so what am I supposed to do?

"When I think back, I'm like, We didnt even realise how we did it. But again, no one was taking themselves seriously. I think that's Priyans direction for you, he just gave me the right kind of cues, I knew the lines, it was a small scene, so actually I just read it up there.

Directed by Anees Bazmee, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 stars Kartik Aaryan and Triptii Dimri. The second film in the franchise was made by Bazmee and it had Aaryan, Kiara Advani and Tabu in it.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, produced by T-Series, will release in theatres on Diwali.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
On your left for the fourth time. Marvels Captain America: Brave New World is set to break the box-office slab once again.

Disney at Lionsgate CinemaCon has blasted the screen while treating viewers with a glimpse of Anthony Mackie donning the iconic red, white, and blue as the new Captain America in Captain America: Brave New World.

The footage showcased a sequence where Sam Wilson, the successor to Steve Rogers, saves President Thaddeus Thunderbolt Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford, from a cadre of mind-controlled assassins. Amidst a flurry of bullets and close-quarters combat, the man in the American cape fights to protect the president during an audacious assault on the White House.

The sneak peek also reveals a scene where President Ross extends a offer to Wilson: I want Captain America to help me rebuild the Avengers.

This sequel moves on from the same story as the Disney+ series The Falcon and Winter Soldier, where Wilson vouched to live a life with the shield in hand after Steve Rogers bid adieu to his heroic duties and announced that he would not be picking up his shield.

ALSO READ| Mufasa: The Lion King's first teaser out at CinemaCon with Moana 2, Deadpool 2: Full Disney 2024 lineup

Cast of Captain America: Brave New World

The full-fledged cast highlights Captain America 4, and introduces Danny Ramirez, who takes the lead role, of the Falcon finally in Season 4. Moreover, Wilson who has a character transformation from a soldier to Captain America. The motion-picture production was designed with Tim Blake Nelson, Shira Haas, and Liv Tyler and directed by Julius Onah.

Feige says Captan America 4 is another fast-paced, relatively grounded action thriller

President of Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige drew parallels between the upcoming film and the critically acclaimed Captain America: The Winter Soldier' from 2014.

Feige described Brave New World as another fast-paced, relatively grounded action thriller and theres no aliens. Instead, the film delves into the intrigue within the political sphere, as Wilson discloses to Ross, Our inner circle has been compromised.

The chemistry between the President and the new Captain America is not without tension, as evidenced by their sharp exchange: Youre not Steve Rogers, Ross remarks, to which Wilson firmly responds, Youre right, Im not.

Set for release on February 14, 2025, Captain America: Brave New World carries a huge load. In recent years Marvel Studios has faced challenges in attracting audiences to theatres, with recent titles like Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Eternals, and The Marvels.

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In addition to Captain America 4, Disney teased attendees with footage from Deadpool & Wolverine, slated for release this summer. The film, directed by Shawn Levy, features the much-anticipated team-up of Hugh Jackmans Wolverine and Ryan Reynolds Deadpool, generating considerable buzz among fans.

The release of Captain America 4 was initially set for this year but was postponed due to industry-wide strikes affecting actors and writers, leading to production halts.
Actor and filmmaker Aziz Ansari has shared the reason behind pictures of Keanu Reeves walking with crutches in January this year. As reported by People, Aziz said that Keanu fractured his kneecap in his trailer on the set of Good Fortune. (Also Read | How the Matrix revived Keanu Reeves career and cemented his status as a leading star) A fan account shared photos of Keanu Reeves walking with crutches earlier this year.

Aziz shared how Keanu hurt himself

Speaking at CinemaCon 2024 in Las Vegas recently, Aziz said, "About, I don't know, 15 days into shooting with me, I was like, 'Hey, just go chill in your dressing room for 15 minutes.' And he tripped on a rug. He's like, 'Aah, my knee.'

Aziz talks about Keanu's behaviour post his injury

Aziz added that Keanu was "such a trooper" following the injury. He noted that despite being hurt, Keanu "still filmed everything except some scenes where he needed him to do salsa dancing, which we need to pick up". "He was like, 'I'll do it!' We're like, 'Keanu, calm down. We'll do the salsa dancing once your knee's healed'," added Aziz.

Aziz also praised Keanu

He also shared that Keanu has done extreme stunts without ever needing "to go to the hospital or anything". Aziz cited examples of films of Keanu such as those of John Wick and Matrix. He added that in Speed, Keanu "actually did attempt to do the jump from the car to the bus. It wasn't the take they used, but he did do it".

About Good Fortune

Good Fortune, a comedy, has been written and directed by Aziz. Apart from Keanu, Keke Palmer and Seth Rogen are also part of the film. Lionsgate is backing Good Fortune, which has been produced in Los Angeles. Anthony Katagas, Alan Yang, and Ansari are producing Good Fortune.

Aziz Ansari and Jonathan McCoy are executive producers. Brady Fujikawa and Jon Humphrey of Lionsgate will oversee the picture. Dan Freedman, Phil Strina, John Biondo, and Matt Leonetti negotiated the contract for the studio.

Good Fortune is Aziz's second try at directing. He was previously working on the comedy-drama Being Mortal for Searchlight. However, work was delayed indefinitely in 2022 due to accusations regarding actor Bill Murray's abusive behaviour on set, as per Variety.

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This year's Cannes Film Festival  to begin its roll on May 14  is heavily tilted towards English-language work. There are 10 movies out of the 19 Competition titles announced on Thursday in Paris. They are The Apprentice, Bird, Emilia Perez, Megalopolis, The Shrouds, The Substance, Kinds of Kindness, Limonov, Anora and Oh Canada. This is a record. In 2018, there were only two in English, but in 2023, the number rose sharply to seven. (Also read: Payal Kapadia' s All We Imagine As Light will be first Indian film to compete at Cannes Film Festival in 30 years) Francis Ford Coppola on the sets of his Megalopolis.

At the Press meet where the Festival lineup was revealed, the general-delegate, Thierry Fremaux, did say that there is a strong American-Anglo-Saxon presence. But that is coincidence, he quipped. Or is it? Over the three decades that I have covered the Festival (which was for a long time the premium event of this sort in the world, but now I would hesitate to say this with Venice becoming stronger and more attractive) I have seen a slow but steady rise in English-language fare.

This is only to be expected. Although there are more Russian, German and French speakers in the world, English has been gaining ground as the lingua-franca. So, probably Cannes is following this trend, although the Festival may not admit this. Also, I have seen that American and British films attract far greater crowds at Cannes than those from other regions. Many arthouse directors in Europe (outside of Britain) have also begun to make their movies in English hoping to grab a greater slice of the market.

Cannes has also understood that big English projects (Megalopolis is one this year) can attract huge media spotlight  which is a very good thing for the market that runs along the 12-day festival. One report said that the Festival President Iris Knobloch was keen to trumpet last years record number of attendees, TV viewers and Oscar nominations. Cannes films generated an impressive 26 nominations.

If Cannes manages to keep pushing this trend, it may well mean that the Oscar awards season begins in May, not in September with Venice. So far, Venice had been the front runner here with many of its titles catching the eyeballs of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (which organises the Oscars).

At the Press conference, Fremaux was asked why there were fewer women directors in competition this time than in 2023 (Andrea Arnold, Coralie Fargeat and relative newcomers Payal Kapadia and Agathe Riedinger). Last year, there were seven, although there had been competitions with none or just one or two previously.

Fremaux averred:The number of four female directors is the average number for the last few years. It is less than last year. As Ive said in the past, Cannes is at the end of the chain, its an echo of the world cinema, which last year produced lots of movies by women and this year a bit less. We need half a century to understand what is going on but the trend is that there are more and more female directors throughout the world. We keep saying it  and we will publish a study on this subject soon  that there are a lot of more female directors in competition and in the official selections overall by percentage than there are around the world. Each time we hesitate between a film that is by a man and one that is by a woman and we have to make a choice, we will go for the one that is more rare [the one by the woman]. Again, I repeat, we need to look at this issue across the year and not only on the day of the Cannes press conference to ensure the place of women in cinema.

By the way, he said that Indian journalists should be happy this year. Year after year, they were disappointed to find nothing from their country. There are two films in the lineup by Indian filmmakers  All We Imagine As Light (Payal Kapadia) and Santosh (Sandhya Suri). Then there is The Shameless with two Indian actresses -- Anasuya Sengupta and Mita Vashisht. A bit of this happens in Bengaluru. but the work is helmed by Belgian director Konstantin Bojanov.

There is also a strong showing from Chinese directors, which Fremaux said, was a as a welcome return for a country that has been less present on the international film stage of late.

Finally, Cannes has made an exception for the Saudi title, Norah. It was a big hit at the Red Sea International Film Festival at Jeddah last December. So, Cannes thought it might make an exception to the rule of premieres only. I really do not remember a movie that came to Cannes after opening elsewhere.

The Festival runs till May 25.
In the midst of renewed controversy surrounding transgender rights, famed author JK Rowling has once again found herself at the centre of a heated debate. This time, her targets are none other than the stars of the Harry Potter franchise, Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson. (Also Read: Harry Potter TV series sets release date: Cast, streaming details, aiming for Warner Bros magic) JK Rowling says she won't forgive Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson for their take on trans rights

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Rowling's latest comments come in response to a recent report commissioned by the NHS, which critiqued the standards of care for gender-variant youth.

The report obtained by The Hollywood Reporter highlighted significant concerns about the lack of evidence supporting current gender care treatments, including puberty blockers. Paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass, who led the review, emphasised the need for more research into the long-term effects of such interventions.

Taking to social media, Rowling wasted no time in expressing her views on the matter.

In response to a follower's suggestion that Radcliffe and Watson might seek forgiveness for their public support of transgender rights, Rowling was unequivocal, "Not safe, I'm afraid. Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding womens hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces.

She accused celebrities of aligning themselves with movements that undermine women's rights and called for their apologies to be directed towards those affected by gender transitioning.

Rowling's stance reflects her long-standing opposition to certain aspects of the trans rights movement, which has garnered both praise and criticism in equal measure.

Her comments reignite a rift that emerged in 2020 when Radcliffe and Watson publicly voiced their support for transgender individuals.

Radcliffe asserted that "Transgender women are women," while Watson affirmed that "Trans people are who they say they are." Their statements clashed with Rowling's views, sparking debate within the Harry Potter fan community and beyond.

The controversy surrounding Rowling's stance on transgender issues has also impacted her relationship with Warner Bros., the studio behind the Harry Potter film franchise. Despite plans for a reboot of the saga as a TV series, Rowling's outspoken opinions have cast a shadow over the otherwise lucrative partnership.

As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether Rowling's steadfast stance will further fracture her relationship with her former stars or if there's room for reconciliation in the magical world they once shared.
Tamil actor Arulmani, known for his roles in Singam, Lingaa, Azhagi and Thandavakone died at 65 of a heart attack in Chennai on April 11. He was recently travelling, campaigning for the political party AIADMK for the upcoming elections. Actor-politician Arulmani died in Chennai on Thursday,

AIADMK Party Work

Arulmani has off-late stayed away from cinema, actively involved in politics. He was touring various parts of Tamil Nadu on behalf of AIADMK for the last ten days to campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He returned to Chennai on Thursday for a short break.

Death in Chennai

After he returned to Chennai, he was admitted to the Government Royapettah Hospital when he complained of discomfort. Despite rushing him to the hospital, it was too late. The doctors who examined him at the hospital declared him dead, according to insiders from the Kollywood film industry. Doctors have confirmed that he died of a heart attack.

About Arulmani

Arulmani trained in acting at the Adyar Film Institute and acted in Tamil films such as Singam 2, Saamaniyan, Sleepless Eyes, Thendral, and Thandavakone, also acting with actors like Suriya and Rajinikanth. He also ran the Movement Training School for some time. The actor was also known for being a philanthropist. He is survived by his wife and two children - a son and a daughter.

Fourth Tamil actor to pass away

In an odd occurrence, Arulmani is the fourth Tamil actor to die in close succession. On March 26, comedian Seshu died at age 60 due to ill health. Daniel Balaji was 48 when he died of a heart attack on March 29. On April 2, Vishweshwara Rao died due to cancer at age 64.

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Actor Lee Jong Suk is reported to be making a comeback with a new webtoon-based K-drama. According to Korean news outlet Daily Sports, the actor, who is known for being highly selective with his roles, is in talks to lead a supernatural drama. If all goes well, this would mark his first collaboration with Global OTT, which is likely to be Disney. Both sides are reportedly positive about the discussions, and there is a high possibility that the partnership will come to fruition. Lee Jong Suk's potential role as a legendary firefighter in '1 Second' drama.(Pic Credit: jongsuk0206)

Lee Jong Suk in talks to lead webtoon-based drama

According to the report the Pinocchio actor is in discussions to star in the series "1 Second" (working title). Negotiations are progressing well and there is a good chance that his role will be confirmed.

Also read: Korean singer Park Bo Ram famed for Reply 1988 song, dies at 30; cause of death under investigation

1 Second is a drama about real-life firemen fighting against arson. It's based on the popular webtoon series by Sini and art by Kwang Woon. , which has been available on Naver since 2019. The first season ended in 2022 and the second season is currently being serialised.

The plot of 1 Second

If Lee Jong Suk signs up for the role, he will portray Ho-ga, a legendary firefighter who solves fire and disaster situations with a 100% rescue rate using his ability to see the future. The webtoon has gained popularity with over 500,000 interested readers and a rating of 9.98 out of 10. 1 Second is anticipated to be Lee Jong Suk's new work, marking his return after two years since his last drama, Big Mouth.

The production company and platform for the upcoming show 1 Second are highly reliable. The production of the show is being handled by Arc Media (formerly Story Hunter Co., Ltd.), which has previously produced successful shows such as Disney Plus's Casino and dramas like Love Affairs in the Afternoon. They have also played a significant role in Disney's success in the country.

Also read: Queen of Tears to release two special episodes on THIS date starring Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Ji Won

In November 2023, the Doctor Stranger actor was in talks with Go Min Si, known for her role in Sweet Home, to headline a drama directed by the creator of Descendants of the Sun. However, it was later reported that the negotiations didn't go well, and both stars opted out.
Three years after The Kominsky Method concluded, veteran actor Michael Douglas is returning to the small screen with Franklin, a period political drama where he plays Benjamin Franklin, Founding Father of the US. Essaying the historical figure has lent Michael a fresh perspective to view the state of democracy across the globe today, from his home country of America to a land he loves visiting  India. Michael Douglas is hopeful India will welcome religious diversity this election

(Also Read: Michael Douglas praises PM Narendra Modi at IFFI, says 'India is in good hands')

Michael Douglas on India

We love India, as you probably know. We were there for five weeks. It was our first trip in the South. I think it's an extraordinary country, the future in a lot of ways," said Michael in an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times. He also hailed India's linguistic diversity. Talking about democracy, to see a country with 28 different states, who speak 22 official languages I think that's very healthy, added Michael, who visited Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and Telangana with his family last year, celebrating Christmas and New Year's Eve in the country.

He was also conferred with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian government at the International Film Festival of India, held in Goa this past November. While Michael said India is in good hands at IFFI, he's counting on it to become a more vibrant democracy. I'm hopeful that you can resolve some key political issues that are going on right now in your election, in terms of welcoming religious diversity, rather than becoming a country under only one religion, he told us.

Michael didn't spare the US from this scrutiny either. Ahead of the premiere of Franklin in Cannes, France on Wednesday, Michael said at the press conference, I think that Ben (Benjamin Franklin) would be highly, highly disappointed in the distortion of either a republic or democracy that the United States has become. I hope that this upcoming election will be a cathartic experience for the United States and turn the page onto a new chapter, he said.

However, he did tell us that US President Joe Biden, 81, could take a cue from Benjamin Franklin in one regard  much after writing, inventing, opening universities, libraries, and post offices all his life, and drafting the Declaration of Independence, he was sent on a mission to seek support from France. I realised that in 1776, the average age of an American to live was 39 years old. And here he was at 70, making an eight-year trip to a new country. My personal opinion is that it'd give Joe Biden a new breath of fresh air and for all of us to realise that he's very well capable to function beyond 70, said Michael.

On filming Franklin

Franklin, Michael's new show, in fact focuses on this very leg of Benjamin's life  his journey to France for the sake of America. He was an overwhelmingly unbelievable Renaissance figure. It was hard to grasp the extent of what he was doing. A two-month trip across the Atlantic at that age to go and ask a country for their support. So there he is, in a new democracy going to one of the world's oldest monarchies to ask them for support for his country. It's an impossible situation, loaded with spies and backstabbers," added Michael.

Michael and his team shot mostly on real locations in France at a time when the country is preparing to host the Olympics this year. He looks back at it as the best production and ensemble he's ever worked with. I noticed a lady sitting behind the camera. I asked, Who's that?' It was the casting director from France. I went over and gave her the biggest hug I ever could. I had tears in my mind that we had such great actors. I get a laugh out of the fact that French actors looked at each other and said, I didnt know you speak English! You're very good, said an amused Michael.

Michael Douglas plays Benjamin Franklin in a new Apple TV series

Michael had the maximum scenes with Noah Jupe, the 19-year-old British actor who played his grandson Temple Franklin. While Noah said Michael made for a great grandfather, the 79-year-old actor admitted that he's also enjoying his current phase as a real-life grandpa to Lua, 6, and Ryder, 3, from his first wife Diandra Luker. He also has a son Dylan, 23, and daughter Carys, 20, from his second wife and Welsh actor Catherine Zeta-Jones.

When I used to go see my daughter in college, they'd say, This is not grandparents weekend, this is parents' weekend.' And I'd tell them, No, Im the father.' But I'm glad I don't have to do that anymore, said Michael, whose Instagram bio reflects the various roles he loves to juggle today: Husband, Father, Grandfather, Actor, Producer & @UnitedNations Messenger of Peace.

So much so that the last time we saw him on the big screen was as Hank Pym in Marvel's Ant-Man franchise. He's happy to be not doing much on the work front, and prefers to spend time with his growing, blended family. Well, I won't say I'm retired, but I'm enjoying life. So far, Im luckily not doing anything except promoting this show. We'll see how it goes. I'm enjoying not working, I must say.

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Fifteen people, including two women and a child, were hospitalised with complaints of vomiting and dehydration after consuming packaged coconut water purchased from a particular factory in Adyaru of Mangaluru district, the district health department said on Thursday. 15 people fell sick after consuming packaged coconut water on Wednesday evening. (File photo)

District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Thimaiah said that people who fell sick after consuming packaged coconut water on Wednesday evening were treated as inpatients and outpatients in government and private hospitals, including Highland and Father Muller Medical College and Hospital

He further said that three people, including two women and a child are being treated in a private hospital under extra observation, and those who suffered illness were recovering.

Following the incident, the medical, food, and civil supply departments sealed the factory that sold the packaged coconut water sachets and has sent 15 litres of coconut water of different-sized sachets for testing to a laboratory in Bengaluru to determine the cause of the illness of those infected.

We also sent the stools of all the infected to the laboratory, and action will be initiated based on the report, Dr Thimaiah said, adding that since all those treated in the hospitals were found to have consumed the packaged coconut water from a particular factory that also manufactures ice creams. The primary report revealed there might be some fault in the packaged coconut water which was still dated, the DHO said.

Those who suffered illness are residents of Adyaru, Kannuru, and Tumbe .

As humidity was higher in the coastal region, the cool drinks manufacturing sector does good business every summer. Since it is believed that the water of tender coconut water does not have any contamination, people prefer it more. However, unfortunately, the tragedy occurred with it, said Satish Shetty, who owns a coconut water packaging unit in Mangaluru.

The stock that was recovered from the Adyaru unit was dated with an expiry date till August and September. Only those who consumed coconut water from the particular factory suffered illness, and no one had from other units, Shetty added.

The incident created panic in Mangaluru and neighbouring Udupi districts with rumours about cholera, which prompted health minister Dinesh Gundurao to respond. It is neither cholera nor any waterborne infection. People should not panic, the minister said while urging people not to believe the rumours.

The factory that caused the illness of many has been cleaned, the entire stock has been seized, and the factory was closed until further order, the minister said, adding that the factory was following all the norms and the packaged boxes were dated with an expiry date till the second half of the year. To know the real cause, samples of the packaged stuff from the factory and the stools of the infected have been sent to government laboratories, and reports are expected soon, Gundurao said.

He said the health officers was been directed to personally visit those undergoing treatment at private hospitals and coordinate with them until the infected are discharged.
A San Francisco man is accused of using his skateboard to smash several windows at the Masjid Al-Tawheed mosque on Sutter Street in San Francisco. Google Street View

A San Francisco man accused of using his skateboard to smash several windows at a mosque in the Lower Nob Hill neighborhood last week has been charged with a hate crime, prosecutors said Thursday.

Robert Gray, 35, was charged with felony vandalism with the special allegation of a hate crime, according to the San Francisco District Attorneys Office. As of Thursday night, Gray was in custody at the San Francisco County Jail, where he was being held on a $250,000 bond, according to jail records.

Grays arraignment was scheduled for Friday. If convicted on all charges and a jury finds his acts constitute a hate crime, he could face six years in state prison, according to the DAs office. Prosecutors said they will request that Gray be detained until his trial because they believe he poses a risk to public safety.

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Gray is accused of vandalizing Masjid Al-Tawheed mosque on Sutter Street in San Francisco on April 4, the DAs office said. Gray returned to the mosque on Wednesday night and police were notified. About 7:55 p.m., officers responded to the mosque regarding a report of a vandalism suspect, the DAs office said. Officers found Gray and arrested him without incident.
Six schoolchildren were killed and 19 injured on Thursday morning in Mahendergarh district in Haryana after a speeding private school bus driven by an allegedly drunk man barrelled off the road, rammed into a tree and overturned, said police officers  an incident that left a string of unanswered questions in its wake, including why the institution called students in on Eid, a gazetted holiday. The damaged school bus in Mahendergarh on Thursday. (PTI)

The driver, Dharmender (who goes by one name), was arrested from the spot, and the principal of GL Public School in Kanina village, Deepti Rao, and school secretary Hoshiyar Singh were held later in the day, said senior police officers.

The bus was carrying 37 students aged between 10 and 18,and did not have a helper on board.

Officials said 12 children were being treated in a hospital in Rewari, three at another private hospital in Rewari and four in Gurugram. The other 12 were discharged.

Also read: Haryana bus accident: FIR says 'drunk' driver ignored children's pleas to slow down; 10 points

The victims  five boys and a girl  were identified as Satyam (16), Yuvraj (14), brothers Yashu (15) and Anshu (13), all of whom live in Jharli village; and Vansh (14) and Rinki (15), both from Dhanonda village.

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini were among a string of senior political leaders who condoled the accident.

A preliminary investigation found that the 52-seater bus did not have either a fitness certificate or a mandatory high-security registration plate, said officers involved in the probe, also adding that the vehicle had been fined for these lapses in March 2023. Dharmender was the usual driver for the bus.

The incident occurred in Unhani village, around 8.45am on Thursday, roughly an hour and 15 minutes after the bus set off from Sehlang village around 15km away.

The bus was headed to Kanina and had picked up 37 students along the way by the time it reached Unhani around 2.5km away from the school. According to survivors and police officers, as it approached a gentle right turn near a Hafed godown, metres before a culvert, the bus, which according to students was travelling at 120km/hour, skidded off the narrow road, rammed into a tree on the opposite side and flipped over.

Mahendergarh superintendent of police (SP) Arsh Verma said the driver was speeding and a medico-legal test would confirm if he was drunk or not.

However, Verma confirmed that the survivors said the man was drunk.

The injured children said that the driver was under the influence of alcohol when the mishap took place, he said, adding that the schools principal was arrested.

Documents showed that the buss fitness certificate expired six years ago, said Verma.

Haryana transport minister Aseem Goel said the negligence of the school is clear in this case.

All vehicles in the state will be made to undergo fitness tests, he said. The Haryana government also suspended the Narnaul regional transport authoritys assistant secretary Pardeep Kumar.

Police officers who asked not to be named quoted students as saying that the driver jumped out of the window the moment he realised he had lost control of the vehicle.

The injured students told HT that they called the school principal about 50 minutes before the accident and complained that the driver was drunk. Rao, however, rejected their concerns and said, Everything will be okay, just come to school.

Anju, a class 12 student, said that their parents informed the principal who insisted that the students reach the school with the driver and promised to take action against him.

It was also unclear why the school was open on Eid-ul-Fitr, a central holiday across the country.

A show cause notice has been served to all the schools that were open on Thursday, said Haryana education minister Seema Trikha.

No immediate response was available from the school.

Mahendergarh deputy commissioner (DC) Monika Gupta said that they have written to the Haryana board of school education and the state government to terminate the schools affiliation for conducting classes on a gazetted holiday.

All three suspects were booked under the Indian Penal Codes sections 109 (abetment),120B (criminal conspiracy), 304 (culpable homicide),336 (endangering life) and 337 (causing hurt to another person by acting rashly or negligently).

Trikha, who visited recovering children in Matrika hospital in Rewari, said most of the injured children are out of danger, except a girl who is being treated in the ICU for a brain haemorrhage.

Condolences poured in from across political circles after the incident.

President Murmu, in a post on X, said, The news of the death of innocent children in a school bus accident in Mahendergarh district of Haryana is heart-rending. May God give strength to the bereaved parents and relatives to bear this cruel blow. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured children.

Prime Minister Modi, also in a post on X, said: My condolences are with all the families who have lost their children in this accident. Along with this, I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured children. Under the supervision of the state government, the local administration is engaged in providing all possible help to the victims and their families.

Haryana chief minister Saini assured that strict action will be taken against those found guilty in the probe. We will ensure ex-gratia to the affected families and full treatment of the injured students.
Delhi minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Friday alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government could be imposing a President's Rule in the national capital in the next few days. The AAP leader claimed that imposition of the President's Rule would be illegal and against the mandate of the people. Delhi cabinet minister Atishi (PTI)

The BJP quickly responded to Atishi's allegation, with its Delhi unit chief Virendra Sachdeva slamming the AAP minister. Atishi's usual false narrative of her victimisation and Operation Lotus story has now been replaced by a new story early this morning. Today, she has said that President's Rule is likely to be imposed in Delhi, he said.

Addressing the media, Atishi claimed, Arvind Kejriwal's arrest is a political conspiracy to topple his governmentWe have learnt from reliable sources that in the coming days, the President's Rule will be imposed in Delhi The AAP has defeated the BJP in the Delhi assembly elections in 2015 and 2020. That is why they want to topple the Delhi government.

Atishi also claimed that there have been several events in recent times that indicated the possibility of the imposition of the President's Rule in the national capital.

In the last few months, no senior IAS officer has been posted in DelhiPosts are lying vacant in departments but no postings have taken place. Bureaucrats have stopped attending meetings called by ministers, citing the Model Code of Conduct. The lieutenant governor has been writing letters to the MHA over the functioning of the Delhi government, she said.

Virendra Sachdeva, however, hit out at the AAP saying it was surprising that the fear of President's Rule is haunting the party.

A party with more than 60 legislators, enough majority, then why this matter is fearing them? Atishi is an expert in planting imaginary and frivolous stories. They (AAP) are afraid of the fact that more than 60 legislators might leave themIf this is the case, then it's their fear, we have nothing to do with that, he added.

It would be better if Arvind Kejriwal resigns, hand over the government to a new chief minister and let Delhi's administration run properly, Sachdeva said, as quoted by PTI.

The AAP and BJP have been at loggerheads ahead of the Lok Sabha election. The two parties have been slamming each other, especially since the arrest of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, whom the Enforcement Directorate held on March 21 in connection with the alleged liquor policy case.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday arrested K Kavitha, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, in its probe on corruption in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22. Kavitha was already in jail, in custody of the Enforcement Directorate. BRS leader K Kavitha (ANI)

People familiar with the development said Kavitha was taken into custody around 12.40pm in Tihar under section 120 (criminal conspiracy) and section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act. She will be produced before a special court on Friday morning. She had been lodged inside prison since March 26, after ED arrested her on March 15.

K Kavitha has been arrested under Prevention of Corruption Act as she was a key member in the South Group that gave 100 crore kickbacks to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders in the excise policy in lieu of L1 licences in Delhi, said a CBI officer, who didnt want to be named. A L1 licence allows wholesale distribution of liquor in Delhi. The South group allegedly got nine out of 32 licences.

Kavithas lawyer, Nitesh Rana, said, CBI has not followed the procedure of arrest in the custody. Also, any permission taken from the court has not been made available to the accused or the counsel. The procedure to arrest my client is totally illegal.

A key charge by both the agencies is that businessman Sameer Mahendrus Indospirits Group controlled multiple retail zones in Delhi under this policy, and advance payment of kickbacks worth 100 crore to the AAP leaders by the so-called South Group of which Kavitha was a member.

CBI and ED claim the South Group comprised YSR Congress member of Parliament, Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, his son Raghav Magunta, Sarath Reddy (promoter of Aurobindo Group), K Kavitha, and Delhi-based businessman Sameer Mahendru. It was represented by Abhishek Boinpally, Arun Pillai and Butchibabu in meetings with Vijay Nair, a close aide of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and people in the liquor trade.

Raghav Magunta and Sarath Reddy have turned approver in the case. Their testimonies, recorded under section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), were cited as key evidence by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) while arresting Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal last month.

Kejriwals plea against his arrest is expected to be listed before the Supreme Court on April 15.

To gather evidence against Kavitha, agencies have banked on the statements of Butchibabu Gorantla, her former chartered accountant and Arun Ramchandra Pillai, who represented her interests during multiple meetings with Nair and others. While Butchibabu was arrested by the CBI in February 2023, Pillai was arrested by ED in March.

According to ED, Butchibabu, in his statement recorded before the ED officials in February 2023 said: 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.

According to ED, Pillai, a Hyderabad based businessman, told ED on November 11, 2022, that there was a deal/understanding between K Kavitha and the AAP wherein in exchange of kickbacks paid to the tune of 100 crore, K Kavitha got access to the Delhi liquor business, specifically stakes in L1 licences  i.e. Indo Spirits.

Pillai, according to investigators, also represented the benami investments of Kavitha.

The Delhi governments 2021-22 excise policy aimed to revitalize the citys flagging liquor business. It aimed to replace a sales-volume based regime with a license fee one 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 AAP alleging that Saxenas predecessor sabotaged the move with a few last-minute changes that resulted in lower-than-expected revenues.
The NIA apprehended two suspects, Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taha, near Kolkata in connection with the Rameswaram Cafe blast case in Bengaluru. Shazib, considered the "mastermind," placed the IED at the cafe, while Taha is a co-conspirator. Both are residents of Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district and were part of the IS-inspired "Thirthahalli module," with ambitions of establishing an Islamic State Caliphate in Karnataka's forests. They were also associated with the Al Hind terror module and have been on investigative agencies' radar since January 2020. The duo, evading arrest since 2019, were captured after being on the run for years. Their apprehension marks a significant breakthrough in unravelling the activities of terror outfits in the region. Dig deeper The NIA released this picture of the bomber, captured from the CCTV footage while keeping a bag in The Rameshwaram Cafe, a popular eatery in Bengaluru's Brookfield area.

Delhi's AAP leader Atishi accused the BJP-led central government of planning to impose President's Rule in the capital, calling it "illegal" and against the people's mandate. BJP's Virendra Sachdeva swiftly rebutted, dismissing Atishi's claims as false narratives. Atishi alleged that recent events, like delays in bureaucratic appointments and LG's correspondence with MHA, hinted at President's Rule. Sachdeva countered, questioning AAP's fear despite a strong majority. He suggested Kejriwal resign and hand over governance. The AAP-BJP rift intensifies amid Delhi CM Kejriwal's recent arrest by the Enforcement Directorate. Both parties exchanged accusations, escalating tension ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Dig deeper

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Sports Going

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis candidly addressed his team's recent struggles after their loss to Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024, citing bowling deficiencies as a key issue. With RCB's fifth defeat in six matches, du Plessis stressed the need for batting firepower, aiming for higher scores to compensate for bowling limitations. In the match against MI, RCB's bowlers struggled, conceding over 10 runs per over as MI chased down 197 runs with ease. Du Plessis also praised Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional performance, acknowledging his match-winning abilities akin to legendary bowler Lasith Malinga, while MI captain Hardik Pandya lauded Bumrah's consistency and pivotal role in their victories. Dig deeper

Lifestyle and Health

Chaitra Navratri, a significant Hindu festival spanning nine days, began on April 9 and continues until April 17. Each day, devotees observe fasts and worship different forms of Maa Durga. On the fifth day, Maa Skandamata, the warrior form of Goddess Durga, is revered. To honor her, devotees offer bananas as bhog. As part of the festivities, here's a simple recipe for Raw Banana Chops: Peel and slice raw bananas, boil them, and coat with a spice paste made of tamarind pulp, curry leaves, and spices. Shallow fry until golden, sprinkle with chaat masala, and serve. Dig deeper

Thats all we have at this hour in our Afternoon briefing. Catch you in the evening.
Opposition parties have rallied together under the banner of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the alleged political vendetta against them by misusing agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED). They have cited the arrests of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, his former Jharkhand counterpart Hemant Soren, and Telangana lawmaker K Kavitha in graft cases. Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (ANI)

INDIA bloc has pointed out disproportionate action against the opposition leaders in contrast to those who switched sides, joined the BJP, or allied with it. The opposition has hit out at the closure of the corruption case against Nationalist Congress Party leader Praful Patel after his party joined the BJP-led alliance. Colloquially the opposition calls instances like these the BJPs washing machine.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi took potshots at the BJP for inducting former minister Gali Janardhan Reddy ,who is an accused in a mining scam. Janardhan Reddy, accused in the 35,000 crore scam, joined the BJP. 20 different cases are against him, including 9 CBI cases. There are allegations of destroying forests and mines. There are allegations of an attempt to buy the judge for 40 crore instead of bail, she wrote on X.

The BJP has maintained that the government was committed to making the country corruption-free. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the face of the BJPs election campaign, told party leaders to highlight the contrast between the corrupt opposition and his clean image.

Now with the washing machine narrative beginning to resonate on the ground, Modi has defended the action against corrupt leaders. In an interview with HTs sister publication Hindustan, he said only 3% of the cases being probed by the ED are of politicians. Steps are being taken even in states where the BJP is in power. The narratives you have heard that it is only political corruption that we are after, are being circulated by people who are under the sword of investigative agencies, he said.

Modi said that those who see benefits in a corrupt system are the ones who are crying foul and presenting the wrong picture in front of the people.
A war of words broke out between the Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday, April 12, arrested two accused, including the mastermind, in Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast case Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa were traced to their hideout near Kolkata and apprehended by an NIA team, the agency said. Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast case accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa.

Shortly after the NIA's statement, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya alleged that under chief minister Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal has become a safe haven for terrorists. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee hit back at the BJP claiming that the accused in the Bengaluru blast case were arrested because of the state police's prompt action.

NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists, Amit Malviya wrote on X (formally Twitter).

Reacting sharply to allegations, Mamata Banerjee, at a rally in Cooch Behar, said, Heard one BJP leader saying that Bengal is not safe. The accused were arrested within two hours following a prompt response by police. What about the states where you are in power?

Also Read | NIA links Thirthahalli module to IED blasts in parts of Karnataka

"What about Uttar Pradesh Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, Gujarat and Bihar? " she asked. The TMC supremo blamed the BJP for spreading canards against the state.

She accused the saffron party of misusing central agencies and not allowing a "level-playing field for all political parties" in the elections.

The West Bengal Police also was quick to respond to the BJP leader's X post rejecting his allegations.

Falsehood at its worst! Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities, the Bengal wrote in reply to Amit Malviya's post.

Also Read | NIA announces fresh bounty of 10L on Rameshwaram cafe blast suspects. Details

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh, meanwhile, lauded the West Bengal Police for the operation but also urged state agencies to investigate the matter to find out that family's links in providing shelter to anti-forces.

Well done @WBPolice in connection with the Bengaluru-cafe blast arrest. Even @NIA_India has acknowledged it in their statements. Any anti-forces should be strictly dealt with. But let me ask to @BJP4India and their minions - where is this arrests made from? KANTHI. We all know which family and BJP's main leader runs illegal activities from Contai. I urge the State agencies to investigate into this matter to find out that FAMILY's links in providing shelter to ANTI-FORCES! Kunal Ghosh wrote on X (formally Twitter).

Kanthi or Contai is known as a stronghold of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and his family.

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla jumped into the debate too. Is the TMC involved with terrorists? We saw how the TMC initiated an attack on the NIA which went there to investigate the (2002 Coimbatore car) blast," Shehzad Poonawalla told news agency PTI.

Bengal governor reacts

West Bengal governor CV Ananda Bose said the hands of the law have started moving, culprits have been caught which is something that should be encouraging to those who believe in democracy. "India is a great country, and Bengal is a famous part of that. If a criminal tries to hide anywhere in India, he will be arrested that is a lesson that can be learned from this...," news agency ANI quoted CV Ananda Bose as saying.
Two absconders in the Bengaluru Rameswaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from West Bengal, a spokesperson for the National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Friday and added one of them planted the low-intensity Improvised Explosive Device (IED) while the other was the mastermind behind its planning and execution. The blast prompted a multi-agency probe. (HT PHOTO)

In a statement, the spokesperson identified the two as Abul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazeb. It added the two were traced to their hideout near Kolkata and that Shazeb is the accused of placing the IED at the cafe. ...Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of blast and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law.

People aware of the matter said the two were living under false identities in Kolkata and that they carried out the blast in coordination with some accused associated with ISIS. CCTV footage purportedly showed Shazeb near the cafe and subsequently on buses in Karnataka after the blast.

The spokesperson said the pursuit of the two accused was successfully and ably supported by energetic co-ordinated action and co-operation between NIA, Central Intelligence agencies, and State Police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala police.

One Muzammil Shareef was earlier arrested in the case on March 27 for allegedly providing logistics such as cell phones, fake SIM cards, etc used to plan and execute the low-intensity IED blast that left nine people injured.

The bomb went off at the busy Rameswaram Cafe and prompted a multi-agency probe. A preliminary investigation zeroed in on a man who left an unidentified bag near the cash counter.

Police recovered a battery and a timer from the blast site, indicating that the explosion was premeditated. Visuals from the immediate aftermath of the blast showed panicked people running away from the scene, sheltering themselves from shattered glass, strewn furniture, smoke, and fire.

A case was registered under the anti-terror law Unlawful Activities(Prevention) Act and the Explosives Act in connection with the blast.
Bengaluru Cafe Blast Case News: The National Investigation Agency or NIA on Friday, April 12, traced and apprehended two persons, including the mastermind, in connection with the March 1 Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast case near Kolkata in West Bengal. Bengaluru cafe blast accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taha(ANI)

The persons have been identified as Mussavir Hussain Shazib, the accused who placed the IED at the Rameshwaram Cafe, and Abdul Matheen Taha, the mastermind behind the planning and execution of the blast, the NIA said in a statement.

On early morning hours of 12.04.2024, NIA were successful in tracing the absconding accused near Kolkata where they were hiding under false identities. This pursuit, successfully accomplished by NIA was ably supported by energetic co-ordinated action and co-operation between NIA, Central Intelligence agencies and State Police agencies of West Bengal, Telengana (Telangana), Karnataka, and Kerala police, the NIA statement said.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taha

Mussavir Hussain Shazib is the accused who placed the IED at the cafe and Abdul Matheen Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of blast and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law, it added.

The NIA had earlier announced a bounty of 10 lakh for information about the bomber in connection with the blast at Bengaluru's Rameshwaram cafe. The agency also emphasised that the confidentiality of the informants' identities will be maintained.

NIA released picture of the suspect

The agency also released a picture of the bomber, captured from the CCTV camera footage while keeping a bag in the Rameshwaram Cafe, a popular eatery in Bengaluru's Brookfield area.

In the picture released by the NIA, the bomber is seen wearing a cap, black pants, and black shoes.

In the post, the NIA also stressed that any information leading to his (bomber) arrest shall be rewarded.

The NIA declared the reward three days after the ministry of home affairs (MHA) handed over the probe into the case to the anti-terror agency.

NIA takes over the case

The case was handed over to the NIA on March 3, following the visit of an NIA team at the blast site. The blast took place at the cafe on March 1 in Bengaluru's Whitefield area, where several people were injured following an explosion that occurred during the busy lunch hour.

Earlier, the Bengaluru Police had registered a case under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Explosives Substances Act in connection with the explosion at the cafe.

The blast took place at 1pm on March 1 and the police also found a suspect in the CCTV camera footage, keeping a bag inside the cafe. The police probe so far has indicated that an IED device with a timer was used to carry out the explosion.
The 370-seat target set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his party in the upcoming general elections is causing some nervous moments for the Bharatiya Janata Partys managers in Haryana and Rajasthan. In both states, the BJP registered a perfect score, winning all Lok Sabha seats in 2019. But about 50 days before counting day, internal surveys are suggesting that the party may have a fight on its hands in five seats in Haryana and six seats in Rajasthan. BJP supporters during a public meeting for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. (PTI PHOTO)

HT has learnt that the seats that have been flagged by the partys managers are Rohtak, Sonepat, Sirsa, Hisar and Karnal out of the 10 seats of Haryana. In Rajasthan, an internal report has said that Barmer, Churu, Nagaur, Dausa, Tonk, and Karauli, out of the 25 seats in the state, may pose a challenge.

To be sure, it is exactly this kind of focus that has helped the BJP become the national political hegemon. Elections are dynamic and things can change dramatically in days, but the two internal surveys cited above suggest there is some overt pushback against the candidates.

Take the Sirsa seat in Haryana, for instance, where the BJP has made former Rahul Gandhi aide and Dalit leader Ashok Tanwar their candidate. On Thursday, a video of a BJP vehicle in Sirsa being stoned and hit with sticks went viral. While Tanwar said he wasnt in the car, party colleagues said that he was in the vehicle shortly before it was attacked . When asked about the red flags raised in the internal survey, Tanwar played them down.

 I am sure that we will repeat last times verdict with a bigger margin, said Tanwar.

A cross-section of BJP leaders in the state said there are several areas of concern. First, the alienation of the Jat vote that makes up almost a third of all votes. The Jat anger can be gauged by the exit of their representatives Birender Singh and his son Brijendra Singh from the party. But more importantly, its also the apparent anger about the Agnipath scheme.

Brijendra Singh specifically raised the issue about this scheme, which marked a major departure from the militarys decades-old recruitment system that was discontinued when the National Democratic Alliance government announced the new scheme in June 2022. It seeks to recruit soldiers for only four years, with a provision to retain 25% of them in regular service. Those recruited under the new scheme are called Agniveers.

Second, the question mark over other backward class or OBC votes. In the last assembly election, the partys effort to consolidate this vote to make up for the absence of Jat support did not work very effectively and the party fell short. This, say party insiders, is why the party has a new chief minister, Nayab Singh Saini , an OBC himself.

The third key factor is the lingering impact of the farmers protest. And the fourth, the perception that homegrown leaders have been ignored. Tanwar and Naveen Jindal got tickets almost immediately after joining the party. Not just that. Just days after joining, Tanwar was the one who welcomed new leaders into the party. At a function to welcome Ranjit Chautalas joining, he was the one officiating. Where were OP Dhankar (former state unit president) and Captain Abhimanyu (former minister)?

One of the BJPs solutions in these seats is to use its trump card, Narendra Modi. On Thursday, for instance, he visited Karauli in Rajasthan, a reserved seat where the BJP is fielding a Jatav for the first time, hoping to wean the community away from the Congress.

In Churu, the partys sitting MP Rahul Kaswan moved to the Congress because he wasnt given a ticket. And in Barmer, the Rajputs seem to be upset with the person fielded by the party.

Senior leader Satish Poonia who was himself denied a ticket tells HT that while there may be concerns, the BJP is sure to win all these seats. As elections get closer, all these concerns die down and people will come together to vote back BJP. I am confident of that.

The other concern for the party is extreme heat. While elections in Rajasthan will end by April 26, Haryana goes to polls only on May 25. Getting everyone to the voting booth with the mercury rising will need the most dedicated cadres, leaders say. However, experts say that because Haryana is a satellite state adjoining Delhi, the double engine dream works for the BJP.

Professor Ashutosh Kumar, who teaches at Panjab University, said that while the BJP may not lose five seats in the state, they will have to overcome Jat anger. This time there is 10 years of anti-incumbency that the state has to deal with and the Jat anger is real. Couple that with the fact that Opposition leader Bhupinder Hooda is in control, the BJP could lose its complete domination.
DMKs deputy general secretary, K Kanomizhi entered the Lok Sabha in 2019 from Thoothukudi after being a two term Rajya Sabha MP. This constituency survived unprecedented flooding last December, an event that is being used by rival parties to score political points. The DMK government has alleged that the Union government has not released funds for flood-hit districts and the Bharatiya Janata Party has accused the state government of not doing enough to mitigate floods. DMKs deputy general secretary, K Kanomizhi entered the Lok Sabha in 2019 from Thoothukudi after being a two term Rajya Sabha MP. (HT Photo)

In an interview, Kanimozhi said the Centre is biased against the opposition ruled states and has sought to use governors to control them. She claimed that the BJP has brought up the Katchatheevu issue to divert attention from what is going on in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh on the Indo-China border. Edited Excerpts:

This election is a test of your incumbency in Thoothukudi and three years of your party DMKs governance. You dealt with unprecedented rainfall and flooding last December. What is the reception on the ground to your campaign?

Im receiving a good response. Ive been travelling to quite a few constituencies. I think there is a lot of impact of government schemes especially the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam (Entitlement for Women of 1,000 every month) and for the free bus scheme (for women) and more importantly for breakfast (for 16 lakh students) and the assistance for students who go to college. People are very happy about it and when you talk about these schemes, the response is really good. So, I think people are very happy with the government and have a lot of confidence in the Chief Minister. I think that reflects in my constituency also. It looks positive so far.

You are the DMKs face in Delhi. What issues is the Tamil Nadu government facing, being a non-BJP ruled state against a BJP-led Union government?

We didnt get any relief when we had natural disasters. The money that the state is owed from the Central pool is not given for schemes and projects like the Chennai metro project (phase 2). I can go on and on about the money being allotted to the state and not being released.

Two weeks ago, Delhi HC admitted CBIs plea challenging your acquittal from 2017 along with others in the 2G case. What you have to say to this?

There is no doubt that opposition is being stifled. Quite a few opposition leaders are in jail. I think over 90% of the cases by the Enforcement Directorate, Income Tax and CBI are against the opposition leaders. We have two chief ministers (one former CM and one serving CM) and one (former) deputy chief minister in jail. Even with Mr Senthil Balaji (a DMK leader), his bail has been denied 31 times. Thats what has happened to our case (2G) also. And Congress accounts were frozen (by the I-T department). All this is putting pressure on the opposition. There is no denying it. And interestingly, after you become an ally of the BJP or you switch over to the BJP , the case disappears.

One ex minister Senthil Balaji is in jail and the Madras High Court has taken up revision cases against the acquittal and discharge of other DMK sitting ministers. Wont it be a setback for DMK?

No, I actually think that the DMK and opposition has become stronger because of these cases. Because people also understand that it is not done in the normal course and are aware that those in power are going out of their way to do things like this. This is just to instil fear in the opposition.

Do you think the BJP is gaining traction in Tamil Nadu?

I cannot deny that they are working very hard here. They won a few seats in the assembly elections (four in 2021) and that is because of the AIADMK (their then ally). I dont think the BJP on its own can really win any seats here because of their ideology and (because) they do not respect peoples sentiments here. When Mr Annamalai (BJPs Tamil Nadu president) insults the agitation over imposition of Hindi hes insulting the entire Tamil Nadu because people from so many families have participated (in the agitations). And people have lost lives and made a lot of sacrifices to protect our identity. So, he is insulting an entire state.

What is your response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeting the DMK-Congress of being anti-women and the BJP of being for nari shakti (women power).

I dont think the BJP has any rights to talk about womens rights. I think around 44 of their MPs have cases against them because of violence and sexual violence against women and children. We saw the way the protesting wrestlers were treated and how the accused MP (from the BJP) was not even questioned. We saw what happened in Manipur. And every time when a woman is raped, BJP leaders question why was she there, why do women wear these clothes. When I raised questions and a private member bill twice in the Parliament about criminalising marital rapes, I received the same reply twice. The Union government said that it is against the tradition and culture of this country to criminalise marital rape. And the BJP is talking about respecting women?

The BJP has blamed the DMK-Congress combine and your father, late M Karunanidhi for ceding Katchatheevu in 1974.

BJP has just brought it up because people are questioning them about what is going on in the Arunachal Pradesh and China border. Theyve entered into our land and thousands of square kilometres of land have been taken up by Chinese incursions. They have come into many of the border states. The BJP governments relationship with all the countries around India is quite bad. So just to divert all this theyve brought up Katchatheevu. And thats exactly what they always do. You remember what happened with Pulwama in February ahead of the 2019 parliamentary elections. Now theyre trying to bring up something else to hide whats happening in our borders.

You were one of the DMK first leaders to speak on abolishing the Governors post. The DMKs manifesto committee led by you has promised that state governments will be consulted in the appointment of Governors.

Because we are an elected government and the Governor who holds just a constitutional post cannot override what an elected government wants. The Governor has to sign whatever resolution is passed in the assembly within a reasonable period of time. And everywhere where there are issues with Governors, it is only in non-BJP ruled states. BJP is not just trying to control us but they have a stranglehold on the state government.
The plaza at BARTs 24th Street Mission Station in San Francisco. Keshon Wilson was convicted of murder and attempted murder charges for a shooting at the station in 2021. Google Maps

A San Francisco man was convicted of first-degree murder and premeditated attempted murder in a fatal shooting that killed a man and injured another at BARTS 24th Street Mission Station, according to the district attorneys office.

Keshon Wilson, 23, faces 82 years to life in prison after a jury convicted him on the charges. For both charges, a jury also decided that Wilson intentionally fired a gun that caused great bodily injury or death, the district attorneys office said. He remains in custody at the San Francisco County Jail, according to jail records. His sentencing is scheduled for June 3.

The shooting occurred on March 29, 2021. About 9:05 p.m., San Francisco police officers responded to a report of a shooting in the area of 24th and Mission streets and found two men suffering from gunshot wounds, authorities previously said. One of the men, 26-year-old Isaiah Cardenas, died at the scene, and the second victim, a 23-year-old, was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. The second victim eventually recovered, authorities said.

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In details released Wednesday, the DAs office said that Cardenas suffered three gunshots to his back while the second victim suffered four to five shots to his shoulder and torso. The DAs office said the shooting occurred after Wilson, who was working at the station as a power washer that night, got into an argument with the victims, who were part of a group of four people. Wilson left the station and drove around the block, parked his work truck and approached the group on foot. He surprised the group and fired nine rounds, striking the two victims who were standing at the corner of 24th and Mission streets, according to the DAs office.

Wilson was working for a BART contractor on the night of the shooting, the DAs office told the Chronicle.

After the shooting, Wilson fled to Las Vegas. Police arrested him in San Francisco on April 30, 2021. Police also arrested Stockton resident Arthur Grady, 37, on suspicion of being an accessory after the shooting. However, a spokesperson with the DAs office told the Chronicle in 2021 that he hadnt been charged because initial evidence showed he wasnt involved.

I am very grateful to the jury for their service as well as their careful and fair approach to this case, said Assistant District Attorney Charly Weissenbach, who prosecuted the case. No one deserves to be murdered, especially by ambush in the heartless and violent manner it was committed here. The jurys verdict rejected the defendants false self-defense claim, upheld the rule of law, condemned senseless gun violence, and delivered justice for the victims and our community.
New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation, which arrested BRS leader K Kavitha on Thursday, told the court today the politician had threatened Sharath Reddy -- a co-accused in the Delhi liquor policy case -- that she would harm his business if he didn't pay money for the Aam Aadmi Party's alleged kickbacks. The agency made the allegation in a Delhi court while seeking a five-day custody of the politician. BRS leader K Kavitha being brought to Rouse Avenue court.( ANI file photo)

The CBI said that it was seeking the custody on the basis of statements that indicate K Kavitha's involvement in the scam as a "key conspirator".

The agency claimed she gave the money to Vijay Nair, a close aide of jailed Delhi CM Arvind Kejrwal.

The CBI said a businessman of the South Group had met Arvind Kejriwal, who assured support to him. The businessman later met K Kavitha.

The agency claimed Sarath Reddy participated in the Delhi liquor business after she assured him that she knew people in the national capital.

"She also informed that 25 crore for wholesale and 5 crore each for the zones, had to be paid to AAP," it claimed.

The agency said Reddy had told them that when he showed reluctance, K Kavitha threatened to harm his business.

The agency said she needs to be interrogated in connection with the facts that emerged during the liquor policy probe.

K Kavitha had been in the Enforcement Directorate's custody since mid-March. The CBI arrested her yesterday.

Also read: After ED action, CBI arrests BRSs K Kavitha in Tihar jail

The agency claimed that during her interrogation in Tihar Jail on Saturday, she didn't give satisfactory replies.

She is not disclosing the facts which are exclusively to her knowledge even after being confronted with evidence, it said.

"Dinesh Arora, (accused turn approver) has confirmed in his statement that Abhishek Boinpally informed that 100 crores was given to Vijay Nair. Statement of Hawala operators under Section 161 and 164 CrPC confirms the payment of 11.9 crores. Chats recovered from Buchibabu reveal that she was holding a partnership in Indiospirits. Licenses were given to Indospririts even after being blacklisted due to the pressure of accused Manish Sisodia," the agency claimed.

Meanwhile, K Kavitha's lawyer termed her arrest by the CBI as illegal. He accused the probe agency of violating her fundamental rights.

"The jail authorities told me about the arrest and allowed me to make a phone call then I informed my husband but could not talk to the lawyers," she told the court.

What is the South Group?

The CBI and ED claim the South Group comprised Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, his son Raghav Magunta, Sarath Reddy (promoter of Aurobindo Group), K Kavitha and Delhi-based businessman Sameer Mahendru. The agencies claim the group paid 100 crore to AAP leaders as advance payment of kickbacks for liquor licenses under the scrapped policy.

"Chats recovered from Butchibabus phone show that she (K Kavitha) was holding a partnership in Indospirits through her proxy," the CBI alleged today.

With inputs from PTI, ANI
Former Uttar Pradesh CM and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has slammed the state government for deploying police officials dressed like pujaris in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Former Uttar Pradesh CM and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has slammed the state government for deploying police officials dressed like pujaris in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi.(X(formerly Twitter))

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Yadav shared a purported video of cops dressed like pujaris inside the temple. In his post, the former Uttar Pradesh CM questioned if according to the 'police manual' it was allowed to have police officials dressed as priests in temples. Condemning the orders, he urged the UP government to suspend those behind the move.

"According to which 'police manual' is it correct to have policemen dressed as priests? Those who give such orders should be suspended. If tomorrow any thug takes advantage of this and loots the innocent public, then what will the UP government and administration answer? Condemnable!," wrote Yadav on X (formerly Twitter).

ALSO READ| Akhilesh to launch INDIA blocs joint campaign from Pilibhit

What Varanasi Police Commissioner said on deployment of police officials dressed like priests

Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Aggarwal has said that the new initiative is aimed at managing huge rush at the temple. He informed that devotees tend to respect and follow instructions of priests

"Devotees from various parts of the country visit the temple every day. We want them to go back with a positive feeling and achieve a sense of fulfilment regarding their visit. However, as the crowd is also extreme on a daily basis, we need to ensure that it keeps moving so that everyone can have a good glance at the deity," Varanasi Police Commissioner told Good News Today.

"Devotees often complain about police officers pushing them during their temple visit. However, they easily listen to priests as they feel respect and warmth towards them," he added.

The Varanasi Police Commissioner revealed that such police officials dressed as priests would follow a 'no-touch policy' to ensure that devotees no longer complain about pushing or other forms of ill-treatment.
Congress leader Vikramaditya Singh on Friday hit back at Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut, the BJP candidate from Mandi seat, for her language during the election campaign, calling it unfortunate. Congress leader Vikramaditya Singh and Kangana Ranaut, BJP's candidate from Mandi seat, trade barbs ahead of Lok Sabha polls.

A political slugfest has erupted as Kangana Ranaut and Vikramaditya Singh, the frontrunner as the Congress' nominee for the Mandi Lok Sabha seat, engaged in a fiery exchange of words ahead of the parliamentary elections.

Addressing a rally in Manali, Kangana had said, Yeh tumhare baap-dada ki riyasat nahin hai, ki tum mujhe dara, dhamka ke vapis bhej doge (This is not the estate of your father or grandfather that you will threaten me and send me back).

She was responding to Vikramaditya Singh's statement in which he called the actor a "queen of controversies" and, referring to her reported remarks on beef-eating, asserted that questions will be raised on her statements given from time to time.

I pray to Lord Ram to give her wisdom and hope she goes back pure from 'Dev Bhoomi' Himachal to Bollywood because she will not win the elections as she knows nothing about people of Himachal.

Accusations flew as she challenged Singh to provide evidence of her alleged consumption of beef, vehemently asserting her adherence to an ayurvedic and yogic lifestyle. The verbal sparring extended to jabs at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, whom Ranaut referred to as Bada Pappu.

Terming Vikramaditya Singh as "ek number ka jhootha" (liar No. 1) and "paltubaaz" (one who repeatedly changes stance), she wondered what can be expected from him when "Bada Pappu" talks about destroying the "nari Shakti" (women power).

Vikramaditya Singh said, I respect her. It doesn't matter who is the candidate from the BJP, we are fighting against the might of the BJP... The kind of language she is using is unfortunate and against the rich culture and tradition of the state, which is a Devbhoomi.

She said that it's a time for women and we need to empower them, she has forgotten that the sitting MP from Mandi is a woman whom people have sent to the parliament in very odd situations, he added.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh on Thursday took a swipe at BJP-led Central government over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent corrupt will go to jail remark, saying the latter's cabinet would have a "lovely reunion in Tihar jail" after the Lok Sabha polls. Congress general secretary (communication) Jairam Ramesh (ANI)

Will the people responsible for overseeing this legalised corruption also go to jail? The Modi Cabinet could have a lovely reunion in Tihar! #ElectoralBondScam, Jairam Ramesh wrote in a post on X.

Jairam Ramesh accused the government of corruption.

"The Prime Minister has given a "guarantee" that the corrupt will go to jail. Remember that the #PayPM Scam saw four channels of corruption: Pre-paid Bribes: Chanda Do, Dhanda Lo, Post paid Bribes: Theka Lo, Rishvat Do, Post-raid Extortion: Hafta Vasuli through ED/IT Raids, Farzi Companies," he claimed.

PM Modi on Thursday said that strict action was being taken against the corrupt across the country, which prompted the Opposition's alliance against him.

"On one side there is Modi, who says remove corruption. On the other side are those who say save the corrupt. All these people who have set out to save the corrupt listen carefully, no matter how many threats you give to Modi, the corrupt will have to go to jail. This is Modi's guarantee, he said said at a rally in Rajasthan.

PM Modi also hit out at the previous Congress-led state government over recruitment exam paper leaks, saying the party is steeped in corruption and found opportunities to loot even in jobs for the youth.

Congress leaders demolished temples and took over their lands. Stones were pelted on a Ram Navami procession hereThe 'shehzada' (prince) of the Congress goes abroad and says that India is not a nation and demands proof if India conducts a surgical strike, PM Modi added.

(With inputs from PTI, ANI)
A Delhi court on Friday sent a notice to the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), seeking a response on the interim bail plea of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia. Sisodia was jailed in the Delhi excise policy case, and is seeking interim bail in order to campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. AAP leader Manish Sisodia (File Photo)

Special Judge for the CBI and ED, Kaveri Baweja, directed the central probe agencies to file their replies by April 20, when the court is likely to take up the application for hearing.

The CBI as well as the ED have alleged that irregularities were committed while modifying the Delhi excise policy, undue favours were extended to licence holders, licence fee was waived or reduced and licences were extended without the competent authority's approval.

The two probe agencies have also alleged that the beneficiaries from the case diverted "illegal" gains to the accused officials and made false entries in their books of account to evade detection.

Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 26, 2023, for his alleged role in the "scam". The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Sisodia in a money laundering case stemming from the CBI FIR on March 9, 2023.

After his arrest by the CBI, Sisodia stepped down from the position of Delhi deputy chief minister, and all other cabinet positions held in the national capital.

Arvind Kejriwal moves Supreme Court against arrest

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody was extended till April 15 in the money laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy. After the Delhi high court rejected his petition against his arrest, Kejriwal approached the Supreme Court regarding the same.

Kejriwal mentioned in his plea that the ED doesn't have any solid proof or allegation against him in their chargesheet, hence the arrest should be deemed illegal. Meanwhile, the probe agency said that they established a money trail, the proceeds of which can be traced back to the Delhi CM.

(With inputs from PTI)
NEW DELHI: India on Friday issued an advisory urging citizens not to travel to Iran or Israel following a sharp rise in tensions between the two sides and asked all Indian nationals living in the two countries to observe utmost precautions for their safety. A woman looks at memorabilia and pictures of the hostages kidnapped in the deadly October 7 attack on Israel by the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas from Gaza, at Dizengoff Square in Tel Aviv on April 11 (REUTERS)

The advisory was issued against the backdrop of a growing number of reports about an Iranian attack on Israel or Israeli interests in retaliation for the Israeli air strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria that killed seven people, including three generals.

In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice, said the advisory issued by the external affairs ministry.

All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves. They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum, the advisory said.

There are about 18,000 Indian nationals in Israel, a majority of them care-givers and professionals in sectors such as information technology. Iran is home to some 4,000 Indian nationals, including petty traders and academics.

People familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity that the advisory meant more Indian workers would not be able to travel to Israel under a government-to-government (G2G) arrangement to work in the construction sector.

The first batch of 64 Indian workers travelled to Israel on April 2 and 6,000 more were expected to be sent during April and May to help Israels construction sector overcome a labour shortage created by the withdrawal of work permits for Palestinian workers.

Israeli authorities also planned to operate an air shuttle for bringing in the Indian workers after the Prime Ministers Office, finance ministry and construction ministry decided to subsidise charter flights.

Another 900 Indian construction workers travelled to Israel in recent months under business-to-business arrangements. Last week, India asked Israeli authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian nationals being sent to work in the construction sector.

The people said Indian authorities are working on various contingencies, including the possible evacuation of Indian nationals from Iran and Israel.

Last week, India expressed concern at the Israeli air strike on a building in the Iranian embassy complex in Damascus on April 1 that killed seven people, including Brig Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) who oversaw operations in Syria and Lebanon.

India is distressed at the escalating tensions in West Asia, and their potential to fuel further violence and instability. We urge all parties to avoid actions that go against commonly accepted principles and norms of international law, external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on April 4.

Iran has pledged a decisive response to the Israeli strike, with foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian describing the attack as a violation of all international obligations and conventions. The anticipated Iranian retaliation has raised fears of an all-out regional war in West Asia, which is home to some nine million Indian expatriates.
In a first, doorstep voting has been provided for the elderly (persons aged 85 years and above) and Persons with Disabilities (PwD), the Election Commission of India (ECI) said. There are over 81 lakhs of 85+ aged voters and 90 lakhs PwD voters registered across the country. (Representative file photo)

The disability should not be less than 40% of the prescribed handicap and certified by the competent authority.

There are over 81 lakhs of 85+ aged voters and 90 lakhs PwD voters registered across the country.

The Booth Level Officer (BLO) is responsible for retrieving Form 12D from the electors place of residence when the required documentation has been completed.

Also Read: Lok Sabha polls: ECI to start nomination process for third phase

Following this, a dedicated team of polling officials along with security officials will visit the voters home and enable them to vote in a postal ballot.

Voters will be informed in advance about the date and approximate time of the visit of election officials by an SMS to the mobile number mentioned in the application.
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Friday that it has eased paperwork for people who shifted from Kashmir to Jammu and Udhampur in the nineties to cast their votes to facilitate their participation in the 2024 general elections. **The Election Commission of India eased the procedure for displaced persons from the Kashmir valley to exercise their franchise in Jammu and Udhampur (PTI)

After a meeting chaired by chief election commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar along with election commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, ECI said that Form M will not be required for displaced persons from Baramulla, Srinagar and Anantnag-Rajouri.

Migrant voters, essentially from the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community, were previously required to fill the form to request the transfer of their vote from Kashmir to a polling station in Jammu, Udhampur or Delhi.

ECI also decided that self-attested certificates appended with Form-M will be acceptable from migrants living outside Jammu and Udhampur, eliminating the need for attestation by a gazetted officer.

According to a statement by the commission on Friday, this decision was taken after ECI received representations pointing to trouble with paperwork. Various representations were received from several Kashmiri Migrant groups projecting the difficulties they face in filling of Form-M every election, which brings a lot of hassle to them in exercising their right to franchise, the ECI statement said.

The Form-M procedure subjects these voters to additional bureaucratic hurdles compared to other voters and also the process of filling out the Form-M is often complex and cumbersome, requiring specific documentation, proof of migration status and attestation by a gazetted officer, it added.

Jammu & Kashmirs chief electoral officer Pandurang K Pole also submitted comments to the commission supporting a request by political parties that Kashmiri migrants may vote in person at transitory camps and via postal ballot. ECI, after considering the recommendation, approved this measure as well.

The poll body has designated 22 special polling stations (21 in Jammu and 1 in Udhampur) for migrant voters in the two regions, ensuring that each zone has at least one Special Polling Station.

The electoral roll extracts for these stations will be derived from the basic electoral rolls of their respective assembly constituencies, an official explained. To prevent any overlap between postal ballot voters and those voting in person, the ARO Migrant Jammu -- which is what has been asked to ensure that electors who opt for postal ballots are marked accordingly in the corresponding electoral roll extracts.

While migrants outside Jammu and Udhampur will be able to self-attest Form M to prevent impersonation at Special Polling Stations, they will have to present their Electors Photo Identification Card or alternative identification. The scheme allows migrants to vote in person or via postal ballot, with forms available on the ECI website.
Kallu Ahirwar walks slowly, his pace betraying his lack of purpose. It is 10am, and the 62-year-olds feet kick up dirt from the unpaved path that runs through the tribal village of Nayagaon in Madhya Pradeshs Tikamgarh district. He ambles towards his two-bigha farm, but there is little point; it is March and there are no crops to tend to. All Ahirwar wants to do is eat away at time, waiting for the day his two sons, 26 and 30, and their families return to the village ahead of the harvest season. Around him are rows and rows of thatched huts. In most, there is either a lock dangling from the door, and some are firmly bolted from the inside -- many of Ahirwars age have simply lost the strength to step out of their homes. For nine months of the year, as younger men from the village move to different corners of the country in the hunt for some sustenance for their families, Nayagaon is haunted by loneliness. A 2022 study pegged the unemployment rate for Tikamgarh at 4.31% for men and 9.94% for women, far higher than the national averages of 2.9% and 4.7% respectively

Tikamgarh is one of the seven districts in northern Madhya Pradesh  Chhattarpur, Niwadi, Panna, Damoh, Datia and Sagar are the others -- that form Bundelkhand. Its a region plagued by high unemployment rates, a crippling lack of industry, soil that is not conducive to agriculture, and a long-standing search for water. What this means is that, for much of the year, life in Tikamgarh can be unsustainable.

Ahirwars elder son, Rajesh, first left Nayagaon on a rickety bus to Delhi when he was 17. All that was on offer was life in a foreign city, away from the warm ensconce of home, for a salary of 400 a month. Even that meagre income was more than Bundelkhand could provide. Migration isnt new for any of us. I once spent years away from home, and now my son does. Nothing has changed for years, the senior Ahirwar said.

Less than 50 metres away, 61-year-old Ramkeshi Prajapati sits outside her bare, ramshackle hut, in the company of her 13 year-old grandson. Her husband died three years ago. Her son got married, and left like everyone else. The boy, Devkumar Prajapati, is sitting cross-legged near the rotting wooden door in a torn school uniform. He goes to the government middle-school nearby, but his dreams have already been coloured by reality. What good will studies do? I think I will go out soon because even in our school, the teachers believe that the son of a labourer can only be a labourer, he said.The stigma of migration is Bundelkhands identity, and fleetingly, once every five years, at the epicentre of its politics.

WHAT THE DATA SUGGESTS The numbers are damning. A 2022 study by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Good Governance and Policy Analysis(AIGGPA), commissioned by the Bundelkhand Development Authority, pegged the unemployment rate for Tikamgarh at 4.31% for men, more than double the state average of 2.1% and far higher than the national average which is 2.9%. For women, the unemployment rate was 9.94%, much higher than the state average of 6.4% and the national average which hovers around 4.7%.

Social activist Pramod Khare, who has worked in Bundelkhand for 15 years, says that the lack of natural resources, year upon year of devastating drought, and a lack of state support, have coalesced into a dangerous cocktail that forces outward migration. There is no major mineral that can be mined. A majority of the soil is low in organic carbon, low to medium in nitrogen and phosphorus, and medium to high in potash. There is both poor soil quality and terrible connectivity with major cities, but successive governments have done little to set up industry here, Khare said.

Right from when young men and women are in school, the only viable option is to leave for work. The AIGGPA study says that only 12.1% of students who completed their higher-secondary education went on to study at a level above than that. This means that nearly 88% of people have negligible scope of employment in the organised sector, the study said.

Rajshekhar Pandey, general manager of the Tikamgarh industries department, said that a developmental uplift was in the works, including a new industrial area built on 22 acres of land near Sinaura Khasi, and another spread across 32 acres, in Mohangarh. As many as six industrial areas are to be developed in the coming years in public partnership mode. We are also promoting artifacts by pushing for GI tags so traditional art can contribute to economic development, Pandey said.

But Bundelkhands faith is shaky. Its people have heard these promises before; and seen them broken before. So people do the only thing they can -- they leave; even if sometimes that means leaving their children behind.

Listless Kallu Ahirwar has little else to do but watch over his barren farm and wait for his two sons to return.

RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS FOR MIGRANTS The building could easily be mistaken for an abandoned home. It has no plaster; its walls are peeling from the outside; there is no name plate, no board. But even at 10:30am, filtering across from inside the decrepit structure, are the voices of children.

On the other side of the door, they sit in a courtyard; inhaling dust from bags of sand and cement next to them, as if on a construction site. There are 31 in all, sitting cross-legged on a torn tat-patti(a long, narrow rug), books in hand. Among the 31, are siblings Radhika and Raja Ahirwar, 10 and 11 years old respectively.

In Harpalpur in Chhattarpur, the district which borders Tikamgarh, at least 40 unregistered schools have mushroomed to cater almost exclusively to the children of migrant labourers. Most of them offer no real schooling or facilities, but give a roof over their heads.

In July 2023, Radhika and Raj helped their father Deepak Ahirwar lock up their two-room hut in Tikagamrhs Dikoli village, and boarded a bus to trundle the 95km to Harpalpur. He spent two days settling them in, paid 27,000 for the year for each of them, and then left for Noida. I was compelled to admit them. No government has ever created residential schools where our children can stay and learn for the year. I cant take them to the city because I cant afford it. And I cant leave them at home all alone. So this is the next best, said Deepak.

The school where the Ahirwar children study is called the Gajanand school. There are four rooms for the 31 children, each with small boxes meant to store personal belongings. The beds are wooden and have no mattresses. Strings that criss-cross haphazardly from the walls double up as clotheslines. Several of the rooms have no fans. There is no peon, no warden, and there are no qualified teachers. Students study, but most of their day is daily chores; each one of them washes dishes, clean clothes, and sweeps the premises.

Ramkishore Dwivedi, the sole caretaker-cum-teacher of the Gajanand school, admits that it has no registration and no affiliation as a residential school. But this doesnt matter. People know me by my name and the quality of teaching. With me, these students become experts at the alphabet and numbers in a year, Dwivedi said.

The parent of another ward who spends the year in Harpalpur, Imaliyakots Basantlal Prajapati, said that the schools have one overarching pull  the promise of a better life. I have worked since I was a child, but I didnt want the same fate for him. If I took him to Delhi, Id be forced to get him to work to sustain himself. So I enrolled him at a residential school with the hope that there will at least be an environment of education better than at the construction site where I work, Prajapati, who also paid 27,000 for the year for his child, said.

Locals say that most of these schools have come up after Covid, but district administration officials say that not a single private boarding school has been registered in the district in the last few years. There are no boarding schools in Chhatarpur. I have given no such permissions in the recent past. I will look into the matter, Chhatarpur district education officer MK Katariya said.

For much of the year, as younger men from the village move to different corners of the country to work, Nayagaon is haunted by loneliness.

POLITICS IN BUNDELKHAND Both Chhattarpur and Tikamgarh are assembly segments under the Tikamgarh parliamentary constituency which goes to the Lok Sabha polls in the second phase on April 26. In many ways, there have been two clear epochs in its electoral history. Between 1952 and 1971, Tikamgarh was a Congress bastion, as much of India was, except for a five-year aberration between 1962 and 1967, when Kure Mate, the Praja Socialist Party candidate, was the member of Parliament. It then ceased being a constituency between two delimitation exercises between 1971 and 2009. Then it was reborn as a seat reserved for Scheduled Castes, and in three successive elections, has voted the same party, the BJP, and the same man, Virendra Khatik.

The district has a sizable Scheduled Caste population at 25%, 4.7% tribals, and 3.67% Muslims. Khatiks draw, BJP leaders say, is not his big-ticket development agenda, but his accessibility. In a poor region, he is constantly available, they say -- the quintessential politician that is sukh-dukh ka saathi (there in good times and bad). So influential is Khatik that in June 2021, when there was a Union Cabinet reshuffle, he was made the minister of social justice and empowerment.

Unsurprisingly, Khatik has been named once again as the BJP candidate, and will be up against 42-year-old Pankaj Ahirwar, the vice-president of the Madhya Pradesh Congresss Scheduled Caste wing who began his sojourn with the party as an NSUI leader in 2004. Polling day is weeks away, and like clockwork, migration is back on the political agenda.

Pankaj Ahirwar says his campaign will focus on the lack of change in 15 years under the same member of Parliament. They have done nothing to generate employment locally, or to improve the social standing of the poor. It is people from the scheduled castes that have to migrate the most, and it is them that face the brunt of social atrocities. Before every election they promise an industrial park, but on the ground, the situation is only worsening, he said.

The BJP, however, argues that the past five years have brought a clutch of initiatives to mitigate the crisis. They point to the laying of a foundation stone of the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India campus across seven acres in Tikamgarh; a Vande Bharat train from Delhi to Khajuraho flagged off on March 2024, the Tikamgarh medical college where the foundation stone was laid in September 2023, and the construction of roads and bridges across the district.

In the next decade, Tikamgarh will emerge as an affluent district. The Ken-Betwa Link project will end the crisis of water, and several irrigation projects will change the face of agriculture in Bundelkhand. The Congress-led state and central governments did nothing for 60 years and they are now showing false concern. Voters are wise and they can see that change may be slow, but it is continuous, Khatik said.

But for villages in Tikamgarh, these promises mean little, and the social compact between politics and change appears to stand broken. Election season does serve a purpose though  a free ride home, funded by political parties soliciting their support. Thirty-two-year-old Santosh Ahirwar, who works in Noida, is already yearning for Dikoli village, and the embrace of the family he left behind. When the elections come around, political parties call us, and bring us home by sending buses, or four wheelers, or simply paying for our tickets. Nothing will ever come of their promises, but at least it gives us a chance to come home. Think of it like a festival, a time when everyone is home, Santosh said.

More than 620km away, Dikoli is preparing too. If nothing else, for its solitude to be broken -- like it is, every elections cycle.

This is the fifth in a series of election reports from the field that look at national and local issues through an electoral lens.
A state of gloom engulfed Jhaadhli and Dhanaunda hamlets in Haryanas Mahendergarh district as six children, all students of primary and secondary classes of a private school, were killed after their school bus, allegedly being driven rashly by a drunk driver, crashed into a tree and overturned on Thursday morning. Locals near a damaged school bus after an accident near Mahendragarh in Narnaul district in Haryana on Thursday. (PTI)

Also Read | Haryana accident: Six children killed, 13 injured after school bus overturns in Mahendragarh

What was more heart-wrenching for the grief-stricken families was the fact that some parents of school children at Kheri village had snatched the key from the bus driver in the morning and informed school principal about the drunk driver.

However, the principal told the parents to give back the key to the bus driver as the children are getting late. She assured the parents that a new bus driver will come from tomorrow. We had complained about the driver to school authorities several times but they failed to change him, Sanjay Kumar, a farmer from Jhaadhli village, said.

Also read: Haryana bus accident: FIR says 'drunk' driver ignored children's pleas to slow down; 10 points

Kumar said he was working in his field when he received a phone call from a known person that the bus of GL Public school had met with an accident.

I have lost my son Yuvraj, a class 9 student, in this mishap. His mother had prepared breakfast for him before coming to the fields. We were happy when he was promoted to class 9th with flying marks. My younger son did not go school today and instead followed us to the fields, an inconsolable Kumar said.

Signs of lives cut short, dreams shattered strewed the accident site, near Unhani village in Kanina, with school bags, shoes, water bottles and study material spread across the road. Some students lay motionless in a pool of blood and others, writhing in pain, cried for help around 8.30 am.

Hearing the cries of the children, some passersby rushed to help, pulling out children from the severely damaged bus and rushed them to the nearest hospital. A doctor at the hospital told reporters that of the 20 injured children brought to the hospital, four students were brought dead and one, who was put on ventilator support, succumbed to his injuries.

The incident occurred when the bus with 37 children on board was on its way to the GL Public School. The driver, identified as Dharmender, was allegedly driving rashly and lost control of the bus, which overturned after ramming into a roadside tree, a senior police officer said.

The driver was caught from the accident site and his medical examination confirmed he was under the influence of alcohol, police said, adding that the school principal, Deepti Rao, and another school official, Hoshiar Singh, were also arrested.

Class 9 student Aditya, from Dhanaunda, who was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Rewari, said the driver was visibly drunk and the bus was being driven at a high speed.

The bus driver lost control over the vehicle and it rammed into a tree. The students sitting in the front and last rows of the bus received injuries after the glass of the windows broke. The bus driver jumped off the bus when it collided with the tree, he told reporters.

The families of the deceased children, all residents of Jhaadhli and Dhanaunda, performed their last rites in the evening in the presence of Haryana ministers Seema Trikha, Kamal Gupta and Banwari Lal.

Sandeep Kumar, who lost both his sons in the mishap, blamed the school authorities, bus driver and district administration for the mishap. He questioned the rationale behind the school being open on Eid-al-Fitr, despite being a government holiday. I have lost everything after the death of both of my sons Anshu (class 9) and Yashu (class 10)  in this tragic road mishap. The school authorities, bus driver and administration all are responsible for this incident. My life is ruined and I am feeling hollow today. I had dreamt of making them successful, but my dreams are shattered now. Why the school was opened despite a government holiday and what was the government doing? The families who have lost their loved ones know the price of a child, the grieving father said.

Also Read | School open on Eid, key bus certificate expired: Lapses exposed in Haryana accident that killed 6 students

State education minister Seema Trikha, who visited the injured students at hospitals, said a show-cause notice has been issued to the private school to explain why it was open on Thursday despite it being a holiday on account of Eid. Deputy commissioner Monika Gupta said the district education officer has sent a proposal to the state government for cancelling its recognition.
Jordan Parker is a breaking news reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. He graduated from Sacramento State University in May 2022 with a degree in journalism. During his time there, he spent three years as a reporter and editor for the university's award-winning student newspaper, The State Hornet. He spent his senior year of college serving as The Hornet's first Black editor in chief, leading the organization to two Pacemaker awards and several other national honors from the Associated Collegiate Press. When he's not chasing down a story, he likes watching movies, traveling and trying new restaurants.
A first-year student of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Guwahati was found dead in his hostel room inside the institutes campus on Wednesday night, police said on Thursday. The student was from Bihars Samastipur area and pursuing B-Tech at the institute. (Getty Images)

While police suspect it to be a case of suicide, the 20-year-old deceaseds family alleged he was ragged and murdered and demanded a high-level probe into the matter.

The student was from Bihars Samastipur area and pursuing B-Tech at the institute.

We have sent the body to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for postmortem. We will get a clear picture once we get the report, a police officer said, seeking anonymity.

According to the authorities at the institute, the body was found on Wednesday night. His body was found in his hostel room on Wednesday night and we immediately informed the police. A team of police arrived and took the body for an autopsy, an IIT official said, requesting not to be named.

While the police officer quoted above said it appears to be a case of suicide, the family alleged the student was ragged and murdered in the hostel.

It is a clear case of murder and now the authorities are trying to establish this as a suicide. He was ragged several times and he also informed the authorities but they did not pay attention, the deceaseds father said, adding that they have filed a police complaint against the institute for alleged negligence.

While the institute did not comment on the familys claims, in a statement, it said: It is with deep regret that IIT Guwahati shares the unfortunate news of the death of a male student on campus on 10th April, 2024. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, and we are providing them with the necessary support during this difficult time. The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. Our thoughts are with the grieving family.
The ministry of external affairs on Friday issued a travel advisory urging all Indian citizens to refrain from travelling to Iran or Israel until further notice. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (File Photo)

The advisory, prompted by escalating tensions in the region, encouraged Indian nationals currently residing in Iran or Israel to contact the nearest Indian Embassies and register themselves with the authorities.

They were also advised to exercise extreme caution and limit their movements to essential activities only.

In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice, the advisory read.

All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves. They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum, the ministry added.

The advisory comes after Iran threatened reprisals over an Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria, sparking fears of an escalation of violence in the Middle East. Iran has vowed revenge for the April 1 airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus that killed a top Iranian general and six other Iranian military officers.

The "imperative for Iran to punish this rogue regime" might have been avoided had the U.N. Security Council condemned the strike and brought the perpetrators to justice, Tehran's mission to the United Nations said on Thursday.

Earlier today, the French foreign ministry advised its citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories.

In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

Top American diplomat Antony Blinken, meanwhile, called counterparts including the Turkish, Chinese and Saudi foreign ministers "to make clear that escalation is not in anyone's interest and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate," according to the U.S. State Department.
In an interview with HTs sister publication Hindustan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will win a historic third term in the general elections that begin next week, highlighting his administrations 10-year-old record on development, welfare, infrastructure and achievements, such as the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir and the opening of the Ram Temple. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public meeting on Thursday ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. (ANI Photo)

How are these general elections different from the previous two (2014 and 2019) because its being said that there is not enough enthusiasm among voters and that there is no wave ? Is there a mood of anti-incumbency?

Elections are the biggest festival of democracy in India. It is not the elections, but the opposition camp that is dull because of their certain defeat. Even the Opposition believes that the NDA government will return to power, which is why several opposition leaders are shying away from poll campaigns. Many people have started blaming EVMs (electronic voting machines) even before the polls have begun.

If you wish to see the wave, you will have to go to the ground, be among the masses. You will see the enthusiasm among people for the third term of the BJP government at the Centre. Our workers are already in the field. Now, even citizens have taken to the streets with Phir Ek Baar, Modi Sarkar slogans. When was the last time you saw something like this in the entire world, that even after 10 years of a government, the masses are engaged to re-elect them to power with the same enthusiasm and absolute fervour? The 2024 general elections are also going to be a subject of study for political experts.

People of this country are taking note of the fact that India is the fifth-largest and the fastest-growing economy in the world. The third-largest startup ecosystem of the world is in India. Our space missions, the Make in India campaign, and the unprecedented speed of infrastructure development are topics of discussions all over the world. People have immensely benefited with rail, road and airport development works. We are way ahead of other countries in real time digital payment systems.

Lord Shri Ram has returned to his grand abode in Ayodhya after a wait of 500 years.

Also read: Narendra Modi in Udhampur: J&K assembly polls soon, statehood to be restored, says PM

Kashmir is free from the shackles of Article 370 and has become a part of the countrys development story.

Most importantly, people have got the opportunity to compare the BJP Model and the Congress Model for the first time.

The Congress ruled the country with full majority for 5-6 decades. In comparison, the BJP has served with absolute majority for only one decade. When they had full majority governments, all they did was strengthen their family. Today, when we have a majority government, our priority is to strengthen the country  villages, the poor, our farmers, and the middle-class society.

Today, not only the country, but the whole world is seeing the difference between the two. Our report card of 10 years is proof that the BJP fulfils its guarantees. Now, we are going to the masses with our vision of a Developed India by 2047.

We have a vision of an India in which every citizen has shelter above their head and every youth has job opportunities. We are engaged in building an India where farmers are happy and prosperous, and women are empowered.

The fact that 25 crore (250 million) people have come out of poverty, toilets have been constructed in more than 11 crore (110 million) households, and more than 4 crore (40 million) poor people have their own houses proves that the BJP government at the Centre is dedicated to serving the poor.

And what you have witnessed in the last 10 years is just the trailer. A lot more work has to be done. We have to take the country far ahead.

You recently said that stricter actions will be taken against corruption in the third term. Will this be limited to only political corruption, or will it also happen in the bureaucracy and the government systems? Because corruption is rampant at lower levels even today.

Eliminating corruption has been a key priority of our government for the last 10 years. We took steps to act against corruption at several levels immediately after forming the new government in 2014. We ended Group C and Group D interviews in central recruitments. We started the National Single Window System for clearance in the country. We tried to make government services as faceless as possible.

We created the DBT (direct benefit transfer) system to prevent the money of the poor from going into the pockets of middlemen. As a result, we have removed the names of more than 10 crore (100 million) fake beneficiaries who were not even born. By doing this, the government saved 2.75 lakh crore from going into the wrong hands.

I am committed to taking strict action against the corrupt. Steps are being taken even in states where the BJP is in power. The narratives you have heard, that it is only political corruption that we are after, are being circulated by people who are under the sword of investigative agencies.

Let me tell you another fact which is not discussed much. Of the corruption cases probed by the Enforcement Directorate, only 3% have people associated with politics. The remaining 97% cases are linked to officials and criminals. Action is being taken against them too.

Those who see benefits in a corrupt system are the ones who are crying foul and presenting the wrong picture in front of the people. ED has also arrested many corrupt officers. Assets worth thousands of crores of corrupt bureaucrats, criminals linked to illicit funding, and drug dealers have been attached. Before 2014, ED attached assets worth only 5,000 crores, whereas in the last 10 years that amount has increased to more than 1 lakh crore.

Before 2014, ED seized only 34 lakh in cash, while under our government it has seized more than 2,200 crore in cash. Imagine, if this money was invested in welfare schemes for the poor, how many people would have benefited, how many opportunities could have been created for the youth; so many new infrastructure projects could have been launched.

Whatever be the level of corruption, it impacts the people of the country.

I assure your readers that action against such people, who steal the money meant for the welfare of the people of this country, will not end.

Along with sugarcane, adequate measures should also be taken for its 126 by-products. Like 30-35% of ethanol from sugarcane is being used in petrol in Brazil. It is just 10% in our country. In some places, paper, crockery and plyboards are also being made with sugarcane bagasse. Are any steps going to be taken regarding this in the future?

I appreciate you asking this question because it raises a very important issue. The BJP government at the Centre is moving forward with a holistic and sustainable development approach. Be it sugarcane farmers or any other class, our government has a comprehensive plan for their progress.

Ethanol-blending has not only increased the income of sugarcane farmers, but it has also strengthened our efforts for sustainable development. We achieved the target of blending up to 10% ethanol in petrol five months back. At present, that has reached around 12%, and we are well on our way towards achieving the goal of ethanol blending up to 20%.

India formed the Global Biofuel Alliance during the G20 Summit and appealed to countries around the world to participate. This is a testament to Indias commitment to biofuels and the environment.

Because of the increasing push for ethanol-blending in petrol, sugarcane farmers have received more than 1 lakh crore in the last 10 years. If I had announced 1 lakh crore to farmers in advance through any government scheme, it would have made headlines in the media and even caught your attention. But my focus is on a more permanent solution to the issues sugarcane farmers face, than making headlines.

The government also invested 40,000 crore in ethanol distilleries, thereby creating a lot of employment opportunities.

We are rapidly reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, and in that mission, sugarcane by-products have been of immense help. Sugarcane bagasse has also contributed to an increase in the production of electricity. The production capacity of sugarcane bagasse and biomass cogeneration plants in the country is being continuously increased.

At present, we are dependent on imports to meet our potash needs. However, efforts are being made to reduce that dependence with the help of sugarcane bagasse.

The use of press-mud, one of the by-products of sugarcane is also gradually increasing. One, it is being used as a bio fertiliser. Secondly, press-mud also plays a crucial role in the production of CBG, or compressed biogas.

The cups, plates, bowls and spoons that were used during the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya were made from sugarcane bagasse. With us using such things in our day-to-day lives, the utility of sugarcane by-products has also increased.

It is said that water and youth of the hills are of no use to the region itself. Every day, people are leaving villages in Uttarakhand. The Centre has launched Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) in 49 villages for the development of border villages. What other measures will be taken to stop migration in other areas?

In the last 10 years, I have undertaken the work which the previous governments considered impossible to do. It is not in my nature to sit idle after seeing problems. In the time of those who neglected the hilly areas for decades, this saying was true that the water and youth of the mountains were of no use to them. But I have resolved to change this saying. The BJP governments at the Centre and in Uttarakhand have placed special focus on the development of hilly areas.

When I say that this decade is the decade of Uttarakhand, there is a solid base behind my belief. I have full faith in the potential of Uttarakhand and the capabilities of its people. The people of Uttarakhand will take it to new heights of development.

In the last few years, we have taken several important steps to curb migration. Efforts have been made to provide better opportunities for education, health, employment and connectivity to the people of Uttarakhand. Unprecedented steps have been taken to improve roads, railways, ropeways and airways. As a result of this, the youth of the hills are now getting better education opportunities with new avenues of employment within the hills.

For example, we have approved the plan to build IT labs and hostels in 20 colleges of Uttarakhand. Entrepreneurship program is being run in the colleges here in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India.

An MERU Centre has been approved in Kumaon University under the PM Usha scheme. New resources are being developed for students in SDS University, Open University, and Doon University.

The increase in the number of tourists in hilly areas like Uttarakhand creates new employment opportunities at many levels.

Our government made access to the temples of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, Manas Khand easier, and developed facilities for the tourists due to which there has been an increase in the number of tourists to these places.

Let me give you the example of Kedarnath. In 2012, 5.5 lakh devotees came there, which was a record. The natural disaster that occurred in 2013 caused a lot of damage. Seeing the condition after disaster, people had given up hope that they would ever be able to go to Kedarnath. But our government resolved to change this situation. The result of this was that in 2023, about 20 lakh pilgrims reached Baba Kedarnath for darshan.

If I include the devotees of the entire Char Dham Yatra, this number will exceed 55 lakhs.

The Parvatmal Yojana and the Char Dham Project will expand tourism in Uttarakhand in an unprecedented manner in the time to come. I am confident that soon the number of devotees will reach crores.

Considering the sensitivity of the hills, we have also expanded our capacity to deal with disasters. You might remember what an important role India played as a rescue team during the natural disaster in Turkey. The Indian team was appreciated all over the world for this work. In Uttarakhand, too, we have been able to deal with disasters proactively and restore normalcy as soon as possible.

To promote employment, our government is running several schemes related to agriculture and horticulture. Special focus is being laid on horticulture of Apple, Kiwi and High Altitude Fruits and construction of polyhouses.

Our Vibrant Village Program will not only benefit the border villages. If the road reaches the first village of the country, it will go through many districts and villages. If the telecom facility reaches the first village of the country, it will connect many villages before that with the network.

More than 600 villages are being developed under the Vibrant Village Scheme. Along with increasing the facilities in these villages, care is being taken to ensure that the traditions and culture of the villages should not be harmed.

If we talk about tourism development, planning to establish new cities is considered necessary. Due to lack of facilities, tourists are not able to reach remote villages. Mobile phones are still not ringing in 429 villages. Will the center help in this sphere?

I think Indian reporters need to spend more time on the ground.

It is true that Uttarakhand has been a victim of Congresss neglect for decades after independence. Because of this, Uttarakhand remained far behind in terms of development. Now the BJP government is working with full force to help Uttarakhand get out of this situation.

Our government has started necessary measures for the development of infrastructure for tourism in Uttarakhand and due to this, tourism has expanded in the state. Apart from the main tourist places, efforts are also being made to bring such places on the tourism map which are not visited by many tourists. Tourism possibilities are being enhanced through development of infrastructure at such places.

Till a few years ago, Pithoragarh, which is a very beautiful tourist place in Uttarakhand, was considered far away from Dehradun and Delhi. It took many hours for travelers to reach here, but today, this distance can be covered in a very short time. Helicopters and airline services have made it easy to reach here. Roads have been widened which has made road travel more convenient.

Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri will be connected by an about 900km-long highway soon. It will be easy to reach Badrinath and Kedarnath Dham through Karnaprayag-Rishikesh railway line. To reduce the traffic pressure in Dehradun, a bypass road is being constructed at a cost of 700 crore. Today, one can reach Dehradun from Delhi in less than five hours on the Vande Bharat train.

Along with physical infrastructure, our government has also continuously focused on digital infrastructure. An approval has been given to install 4G mobile towers even in remote villages of Uttarakhand. BSNL is installing about 500 new 4G towers here, and more than 60 towers are being upgraded. With this, the villages which are currently getting 2G or 3G service will start getting 4G facilities. More than 1,000 crore is being spent on this project. About 93% of the people of Uttarakhand are getting the benefit of 4G internet service, and in the third innings of our government, we will take this figure to 100%.

Also read: As Opposition alleges political vendetta, Modi defends anti-graft action

5G rollout in India has been the fastest in the world. 5G service is also available in many areas of Uttarakhand. Today, all four Dhams of Uttarakhand have 5G connectivity. With 5G connectivity in Gangotri, the milestone of 5G connectivity in 2 lakh sites across India was achieved.

Uttarakhand has today emerged as the favorite destination for workcation and staycation for the youth of the country.

I would like to tell the people of Uttarakhand that their dream is my resolve. The BJP has fielded strong candidates to give voice to the aspirations of the people of Uttarakhand. Through them, the people there will always be connected with me. These strong, hardworking and rooted candidates will become the representatives of Uttarakhand in Parliament and will continue to work for the development of the state.
Punjab Police on Friday claimed to have arrested an operative of the banned Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) in the national capital. The Director General of Police, Punjab, said the KZF operative, identified as Prabhpreet Singh Germany, was apprehended from the Delhi International Airport. Singh was allegedly involved in coordinating terrorist activities, including recruitment and fundraising, from his base in Germany. Punjab DGP said the state police is working to unearth the KZF network.

"In a major breakthrough SSOC, #Amritsar arrests Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) operative Prabhpreet Singh Germany from #Delhi International Airport. He was running terrorist recruitment, funding and aiding module from #Germany," Punjab's Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav posted on X.

Punjab Police is working to unearth the whole KZF Network and other associates linked in the web, he added.

The investigation leading to Singh's arrest traces back to 2020 when the Special Operations Cell (SSOC) in Amritsar received intelligence about KZF terrorist Jagdish Singh Bhura's plans to target high-profile individuals in Punjab.

This information led to the arrest of four operatives linked to the proscribed outfit and the recovery of arms and ammunition from their possession.

Following these arrests, a case was registered under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Arms Act at the Police Station State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar. During interrogation, the detained individuals disclosed their association with Bhura and Prabhpreet Singh, revealing plans for attacks on high-profile targets.

Since Prabhpreet Singh was living in Germany, Punjab Police got a Look Out Circular issued against him through the Bureau of Immigration, New Delhi, to facilitate his arrest.

"On Wednesday, immigration authorities at the IGI Airport in Delhi informed us about the detention of Prabhpreet Singh. Subsequently, a team of SSOC Amritsar rushed to Delhi and arrested the accused," said the DGP.

Read: Unacceptable red line: What US ambassador said on Gurpatwant Pannun case; threats to India

Additional IG, SSOC, Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann on Friday said preliminary investigations have revealed that Prabhpreet Singh went to Poland on a valid visa in 2017, and crossed over to Germany by road in 2020.

"To attain permanent residence in Germany, he applied for political asylum," he added.

"While living in Germany, the accused came in touch with Belgium-based KZF terrorist Jagdish Singh Bhura and got involved in anti-national activities," Mann said, adding that the accused arranged funding and weapons to his Indian associates to carry out targeted killings and other disruptive activities.

(With PTI inputs)
Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday gave Enforcement Directorate (ED) two weeks to finalise the conclusion of the agency's pending investigation in the land-for-job case linked to money laundering, in which former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi was allegedly involved, as were two of her daughters, Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav. Ex-Bihar CM Rabri Devi (ANI/File)

It is directed that the ED shall make efforts to finalise the conclusions of any remaining investigation within two weeks, Special Judge Vishal Gogne said in his orders after hearing submissions of Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) of the Enforcement Directorate.

It was also noted that the ED's principal complaint (charge sheet) is already before the court. SPP Manish Jain also informed the judge that further investigation is being carried out on a priority and expeditious basis.

Additionally, the ED was given time to file a reply from the accused, who sought unreleased documents from the agency.

The matter is now listed for hearing on April 22.

Earlier, on February 28, Rouse Avenue Court granted regular bail to Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, and Hridyanand Chaudhary, a co-accused. This came a month after the court, on January 27, issued summons to the ex-Bihar CM, her two daughters, Chaudhary, and Amit Katyal, the fifth accused.

In its charge sheet, the ED has named Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary, and Amit Katyal. Two firms  AK Infosystem and AB Export  have also been accused in this case. As per the federal agency, AK Infosystem was set up in 2006-07 by Katyal, who was arrested during the probe.

The charge sheet mentions that while AK Infosystem was founded for IT data analysis, no real business was done. Instead, the company purchased several land parcels, one of which pertains to the main predicate offence, i.e. a land for a job.

The case involves as many seven land parcels, which went to and were later allegedly sold by Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, and Hema Yadav.

The SPP had earlier apprised the court that the Yadavs were beneficiaries of the proceeds of crime. Katyal is said to be a close aide of former railways minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, the family patriarch and ex-Bihar CM.

The Delhi high court had refused to quash ED proceedings against Amit Katyal, accused of engaging in transactions with Lalu Prasad's kin.

(With ANI inputs)
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for propaganda following the arrest of two accused in the Bengaluru Rameswaram Cafe blast case, maintaining the state police caught them in two hours. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. (HT PHOTO)

They [BJP] have a propaganda specialist. The blast took place in Bengaluru. Even the accused persons hail from Karnataka. They are not from Bengal. They hid in Bengal for two hours and our police apprehended them in two hours, Banerjee said at an election rally in Cooch Behar.

She referred to statements that Bengal was unsafe and questioned whether Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Bihar were safe.

The BJP attacked the Banerjee government after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested the two suspects. NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taha, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists, said BJPs Bengal co-in-charge Amit Malviya on X.

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh praised the West Bengal Police over the arrest of the suspects and said even NIA acknowledged their role in it. Any anti-forces should be strictly dealt with. But let me ask to @BJP4India and their minions - where is this arrest made from? KANTHI (Contai). We all know which family and BJPs main leader runs illegal activities from Contai. I urge the State agencies to investigate into this matter to find out that FAMILYs links in providing shelter to ANTI-FORCES! wrote Ghosh on X.

Contai in East Midnapore is a bastion of BJP legislator Suvendu Adhikari, who is the leader of the opposition in the state assembly, and his family. Adhikari said it has been proved again that West Bengal is a safe haven for international terrorists.
A man from Kerala who was arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia for a crime committed 18 years ago is likely to be pardoned after thousands of people rallied behind him and managed to do the unthinkable  collect over 34 crore in a massive crowd-funding campaign launched to raise so-called blood money to save him from the gallows. Abdul Rahim

The effort kicked off on March 15 to save the now 41-year-old Abdul Rahim, originally from Feroke in Kozhikode district of Kerala, who was on death row for killing a 15-year-old in Riyadh in 2006, people behind the fund-raising campaign said.

Rahim, who was employed as a driver and full-time caretaker for the boy, caused the victims death by accidentally dislodging a pipe in the boys throat during an argument. By the time Rahim realised that the child had passed out due to lack of oxygen and rushed him to a hospital, the victim had died, the people cited above said.

He was sentenced in 2012, and appeals were filed against the verdict, but the death sentence was confirmed first in 2017 and then again in 2022. He was left with two options  face death by beheading, or somehow pay 34 crore to the victims family to be pardoned.

Several countries, particularly those in the Middle East, have a legal provision that allows the payment of blood money (known as Diya in Arabic) in the case of accidental deaths. Under this provision, if the accused (or their family/friends) pay a financial indemnity, they can be spared punishment if the heirs of the deceased accept the money.

The massive fund-raising effort that was launched to save him  it saw convergence of the global Malayali community  was spearheaded by a body called the Abdul Rahim Legal Assistance Committee Trust that was formed in 2021.

Members of the trust announced at a press conference on Friday that the target sum has been overshot, and asked people to halt donations.

We have reached the goal of 34 crore needed to secure his release. Please do not send us any more money. We have raised 34.45 crore, and the excess funds will be audited and used for a good cause. The global Malayali community has once again done its magic and joined hands irrespective of our political, caste and religious differences. This is the real story of Kerala, said trust member Ashraf Vengat.

He said that the trust will now contact the Indian embassy in Riyadh to take forward the process of reaching an understanding with the victims family and secure Rahims release. The sum will be handed over to the victims family as blood money in order to pardon Rahim days before the April 15 deadline to hand over the money.

Bobby Chemmanur, chairman of a jewellery chain who played a key role in the campaign, said that they raised around 32 crore in just the past week as an aggressive campaign was pushed via social media with the looming execution.

I want to thank everyone for their contributions. When I took up the cause a week ago, the committee fighting for Rahims release had collected 2.4 crore. Even though we were tense at the beginning, we had faith Malayalis across the world would stand by us, said Chemmanur, whose charitable organisation  Boche Fans Charitable Trust  launched lucky draw contests and tea powder sales to raise money. The businessman said he travelled across Kerala under what was dubbed as a begging drive to raise funds.

Various community organisations including charitable arms of political parties, local businessmen, social media influencers and expatriate outfits based in the Middle East were also part of the initiative. Malayali expat bodies in Riyadh, and Saudi Arabia, conducted biryani challenges to raise funds on the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, said officials.

Rahims mother Pathu profusely thanked everyone who contributed.

My prayers are with everyone who helped towards the release of my son. I am so thankful that I dont even have words to express my gratitude. I just want to see my son as soon as possible now, she said.

According to the committee officials, Rahim had gone to Saudi Arabia to work as a driver in 2006. Employed by a household in Riyadh as a driver, he was also engaged for caretaking duties of a 15-year-old boy who could only breathe with the help of medical assistance.

On December 25, 2006, while Rahim and the child were travelling in a car, they had an argument during which he accidentally dislodged the pipe on his neck that supported the boys breathing The court sentenced him for murder even though it was unintentional. He has been languishing in jail for 18 years, Chemmanur said.

Kerala PWD minister PA Muhammad Riyas, who met Rahims mother after the crowd-funding goal was reached, said: Its remarkable how everyone across political, religious, caste, community lines came together for the initiative. There were concerns over the enormity of the challenge and whether such a massive amount of money can be raised. But we have proved that no money is big enough to counter our collective effort and humanity.
New Delhi: The defence ministry has issued a tender to state-run plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the proposed acquisition of 97 light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) to strengthen IAFs capabilities at a time the force is grappling with a shortage of fighter squadrons, officials aware of the matter said on Friday. Tejas LCA Mk-1A (HT photo)

The new fighter planes are expected to cost around 67,000 crore, the officials said asking not to be named.

The development comes around four months after the defence acquisition council (DAC), headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh, accorded its acceptance of necessity (AoN) for more Tejas Mk-1A fighters. AoN by the council is the first step towards buying weapons and systems under Indias procurement rules.

The contract in the pipeline will be the second one as IAF ordered 83 Mk-1A fighters for 48,000 crore in February 2021. The first of these 83 fighters was to be delivered to IAF by March 31 but the delivery has been delayed as key certifications are still pending, as first reported by HT on March 25.

On March 28, the first Tejas Mk-1A aircraft made its maiden flight from an HAL facility in Bengaluru. The 83 fighters already ordered are expected to be delivered by 2028.

Also Read: LCA Tejas MK-1A completes maiden flight in Bengaluru

HAL has set up a new production line in Nashik for LCA Mk-1A to meet IAFs growing requirements for fighter jets. It can build 16 LCA Mk-1As every year in Bengaluru, and the Nashik line will help HAL ramp up production to 24 jets.

LCA Mk-1A is an advanced variant of the LCA Mk-1, which has already been inducted by IAF. LCA is set to emerge as the cornerstone of IAFs combat power in the coming decade and beyond, as previously reported by HT. IAF, the worlds fourth largest air force, is expected to operate around 350 LCAs (Mk-1, Mk-1A and Mk-2 versions), with a third of those already ordered, some inducted, and the rest figuring prominently on the air forces modernisation roadmap and expected to be contracted in the coming years.

The proposal to buy more LCA Mk-1As is moving ahead as planned and will provide a big boost to atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in the defence manufacturing sector, said Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani (retd), director general, Centre for Air Power Studies.

Also Read: Doubts shroud delivery of first LCA Mk-1A jet to IAF

Timely deliveries of LCA Mk-1A will be of essence. The focus will also now be on how the LCA Mk-2 project progresses and developments related to the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA), he added.

Last November, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew in a Tejas Mk-1 trainer, with his sortie being seen as a significant endorsement of the indigenous fighter programme.

The aircraft was part of an earlier order for 40 Mk-1 jets in the initial operational clearance (IOC) and the more advanced final operational clearance (FOC) configurations --- the first variants of LCA. Of the 40 Mk-1s, IAF has inducted 32 single seater jets and raised two squadrons, while the eight trainers are being inducted.

The newer variants, Mk-1A and the under-development Mk-2, will come with significantly improved features and technologies compared to the Mk-1 aircraft.

One of the 32 LCA Mk-1s inducted crashed near Jaisalmer on March 12, minutes after taking part in a tri-services exercise that sought to demonstrate the strides India has made towards self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector. That was the first LCA crash. The aircraft had flown during the tri-services Bharat Shakti exercise at the Pokhran range along with another Tejas fighter before it went down.

Last year, HAL and US engine maker General Electric signed an MoU for transfer of technology (ToT) and manufacturing of F414 aero-engines in India for LCA MK-2. The upcoming deal will involve 80% ToT and is estimated to be worth around $1 billion. The F414 has evolved from the F404 engine that powers the existing Mk-1 and Mk-1A variants and is imported from the US. The local production of the F414 engines will result in the Mk-2 jets having an indigenous content of 75% compared to 60% in Mk-1A and 50% in Mk-1.

The Mk-1A fighter will come with digital radar warning receivers, external self-protection jammer pods, superior radar, advanced beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missiles and significantly improved maintainability.

LCA Mk-2 will be equipped with better avionics and electronics, carry a higher weapons payload, have improved range, enhanced survivability, better situational awareness for pilots, and the ability to quickly switch from one role to another.

Also Read: Combat helicopters, jets & artillery guns in Indias 2.23L crore defence push

In March, the PM-headed Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved a highly anticipated project for the design and prototype development of an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, or AMCA, at a cost of around 15,000 crore. The project will involve the design and development of five twin-engine AMCA prototypes, with the stealth fighter likely to go into production only after a decade.

IAFs modernisation map envisages the deployment of around 120 stealth fighters 2035 onwards.
Corruption hits all, action by agencies will not stop: PM Modi Any level of corruption impacts the people of India and action against those who steal money meant for peoples welfare will not end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, pushing back against Opposition allegations that government was using investigative agencies to undermine the democratic process. Dig deeper PM Narendra Modi

'Fraudulent allegations': Shashi Tharoor warns Rajeev Chandrasekhar of legal action after notice

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday responded to union minister and BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar's defamation notice against him, asserting that he did not make any false and malicious imputations against the minister - either knowingly or unknowingly. Dig deeper

Patanjali sent notices, but not under key 1954 law

Uttarkhands drug controller sought responses from Patanjali Ayurved over its misleading ads promising miracle cures for serious ailments under a section of the Drugs and Cosmetic Rules Act, 1945 that had been stayed by the Bombay high court, and not under the pertinent provisions of the Drugs & Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, according to official documents and people aware of the matter. Dig deeper

Kalpana rallies INDIA bloc for next meet

The upcoming Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc rally in Ranchi on April 21 is widely seen as an effort of Kalpana Soren, who is married to jailed former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, with two opposition functionaries saying she personally invited several leaders to join the rally. Dig deeper

Top US general meets IDF leadership amid escalation in Israel-Iran tensions

The top US commander for the Middle East is in Israel for talks on security threats with the country's military officials, the Pentagon said Thursday. Dig deeper

Prince William hits pub with Kate Middletons mother Carole in low-key manner

Prince William and Kate Middleton have been keeping a low profile after Kate's reported cancer diagnosis, prioritising their family time above all else. Recently, William was seen making a discreet trip to the pub with his mother-in-law, Carole Middleton, amid rumours that the Middleton family is facing financial difficulties. The outing was reportedly very low-key, with no great fanfare. Dig deeper

Hardik Pandya heckled by Rohit Sharma's name at Wankhede, concedes six off next ball in MI vs RCB IPL 2024 match

Hardik Pandya may have turned it around with the bat - he slammed a 6-ball 21 and also hit the winning runs - but his torrid time in the field in IPL 2024 continued as the Wankhede crowd in Mumbai once again booed him during their home match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday. Hardik, who has been subjected to heavy trolling in every match of MI this year, was not spared as the jam-packed stadium heckled him as soon he came on to bowl against RCB. Dig deeper

No filter, tough job: What being a social-media manager is really like

Behind that one-minute Reel you just saw on Instagram is hours and days of work. Even a 10-second promo  the cheese-pull bread at that secret new restaurant, that slow-glide of a new lipgloss, the drone video of Himalayan sunrises  doesnt come easy. What looks floaty and magical often involves three planning meetings, 4am calls, five checklists, arguments with stylists, light and pacing checks, hours of editing and well-timed uploads. Dig deeper

Bill Gates didnt take vacations and even worked on weekends. Then this changed

When Bill Gates founded Microsoft with Paul Allen, he rarely took any breaks at all and had no hope that the company would be a success. Talking at Northern Arizona University, the billionaire said, When I was your age, I didnt believe in vacations. I didnt even believe in weekends. I pushed everyone around me to work very long hours. Dig deeper

Interview: Michael Douglas hopes India welcome religious diversity this election, not be a country 'under one religion

Three years after The Kominsky Method concluded, veteran actor Michael Douglas is returning to the small screen with Franklin, a period political drama where he plays Benjamin Franklin, Founding Father of the US. Essaying the historical figure has lent Michael a fresh perspective to view the state of democracy across the globe today, from his home country of America to a land he loves visiting  India. Dig deeper
Collins Pine Company Resource Manager Neil Fischer walks through log decks of pine burned by the Dixie Fire and stacked at their mill in Chester (Plumas County) on Nov. 22, 2021. Approximately 54,584 acres of Collins Pine Company private forest were burned in the Dixie Fire. Max Whittaker/The Chronicle

A timber company is suing Pacific Gas and Electric Co. for $225 million in damages from the 2021 Dixie Fire, a nearly million-acre blaze ignited by utility power lines.

Collins Pine Co. said that the wildfire burned across 55,000 acres of unique Sierra Nevada timberland managed like natural forests with protected habitat and trees of all ages, killing an estimated 65,000 old-growth trees and leaving behind inhospitable, sterilized soils.

In a seven-count complaint filed Wednesday in San Francisco Superior Court, Collins Pine and affiliated companies said PG&Es negligence cost them upward of $183 million in damages from lost timber, destroyed roads and other infrastructure. They say they sustained another $45 million in damages at the companys mill in Chester (Plumas County), which has had to secure new timber from far-flung sources.

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The day before this fire went through, you had trees ranging in age from seedlings to trees that were in excess of 200 years old, said Tom Insko, Collins Pine president and chief executive officer. It will take 80 to 120 years to get that timber back.

PG&E, which admitted its power lines ignited the Dixie Fire, said the company hasnt yet been served with the complaint and, through a spokesperson, declined to comment on the lawsuit. Earlier this year, the California Public Utilities Commission assessed PG&E $45 million in fines for state law violations in the Dixie Fire.

The Dixie Fire ignited on July 13, 2021, when a weakened tree fell onto remote power lines in Butte County. Though PG&E systems quickly detected the problem, the lines remained energized for at least another 10 hours until an employee reached the area and reported seeing flames. Cal Fire investigators said PG&Es delay was a direct and negligent factor in the ignition of the fire. The investor-owned utility also failed to detect the hazardous tree, which was visibly damaged from an earlier fire, records show.

More than 50,000 acres of the Collins Pine Companys private forest was burned in the Dixie Fire in Chester (Plumas County) in 2021. Collins is now suing PG&E, which has been deemed responsible for the fire, for its losses Max Whittaker/The Chronicle

The fire raged for 3 months, burning 963,309 acres in five counties  Butte, Plumas, Shasta, Lassen and Tehama  and left behind an overwhelming number of dead trees. Many of these acres were commercial forests, national forest lands and rural communities. The Gold Rush town of Greenville was all but destroyed. Fire charred portions of the Pacific Crest Trail.

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Collins Pine and affiliated companies sued PG&E after the parties failed to reach a settlement through mediation.

Collins Pine and related groups own about 94,000 acres in Collins Almanor Forest in Plumas and Tehama counties. Founded in 1855, the Oregon-based company pioneered sustainable timber harvesting more than a century ago, and its diverse forests stand apart from the uniform plantations grown on other commercial timberlands.

Some of the forests revenues benefit Wespath Forests LLC, a nonprofit agency of the United Methodist Church that provides retirement, health and welfare benefits for missionaries. Lost revenues could hamper the groups ability to meet those benefit obligations, Insko said.

Insko said PG&Es failure to identify the tree or de-energize the power lines ruined his companys carefully crafted 100-year-plan and caused immeasurable harm to watersheds and forest ecosystems.

Youre talking about things we cant restore in our lifetimes, Insko said.
NEW DELHI: India on Friday described the security situation in Myanmar as precarious, with diplomats being moved out of the consulate in the port city of Sittwe amid advances by anti-junta resistance forces. Lightning illuminates the sky behind the gunner on a Thai military armored vehicle, as he keeps watch along the Moei river in Mae Sot in Thailand's Tak province on Friday. Thailand's foreign minister has urged Myanmar's military authorities not to violently respond to its army's loss of an important border trading town to its opponents, and that so far it seems to be exercising restraint. (AP)

Staff of the Indian consulate in Sittwe were temporarily relocated to Yangon, while the consulates in Mandalay remains fully functional, external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told a regular media briefing.

The security situation in Myanmar remains precarious and is deteriorating, Jaiswal said.

We are closely monitoring the security situation in Myanmar, particularly in the Rakhine state. Necessary steps have been taken to ensure the safety of our citizens, he said.

People cross the Thailand-Myanmar Friendship Bridge as a stream of people, some of them fearing air strikes, queued at a border crossing to flee Myanmar early on Friday. (REUTERS)

HT had reported on April 10 that India had withdrawn two diplomats who were posted at the consulate in Sittwe, where the port was developed under a $120-million project with an Indian line of credit.

Asked about reports about the kidnapping of three Indian nationals who were reportedly taken from the northeast towards Myanmar earlier this month, Jaiswal said the Indian embassy is working on the matter and hoped they would be back home soon.

Our embassy is seized of the matter. They are working on it and hopefully, we will be able to get them out, he said.

Instability and violence in Myanmar spiked amid intense fighting between the military junta, which seized power in a coup in February 2021, and resistance forces. The resistance forces have captured several border trade and crossing points on the frontiers with India, Bangladesh, China and Thailand.

A general view of Myanmars Myawaddy town is seen from across the Thai side in Mae Sot district on April 11, 2024. Myanmar junta troops have withdrawn from their positions in Myawaddy town, a major trade hub near the Thai border following days of clashes, an ethnic armed group said on April 11, 2024, in a further blow to the embattled military (AFP FILE)

The anti-junta forces seized control of several military bases and a command centre at Myawaddy on the border with Thailand last week, marking another humiliating defeat for the junta.

The fall of Myawaddy is significant as it is Myanmars main transit point for trade with Thailand.

Myanmar has witnessed widespread protests for the restoration of democracy since the coup three years ago. Since three powerful armed groups launched a coordinated offensive against government forces last October, the junta has seen its grip on power shrinking to the central parts of Myanmar.

Military personnel stand guard, as a stream of people, some of them fearing air strikes, queued at a border crossing to flee Myanmar early on Friday, a day after the strategically-vital town of Myawaddy adjoining Thailand fell to anti-junta resistance that has been growing in strength, in Mae Sot, Tak province (REUTERS)

The capture of key towns and military bases near the border with India has fuelled concerns in New Delhi over possible ramifications for the security situation in Manipur and Mizoram.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a star campaigner for Union minister Jitendra Singh, addressed an election rally in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur on Friday, April 12, amid tight security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public meeting. (ANI file)

Jitendra Singh is eyeing a third term as an MP from the Udhampur Lok Sabha seat, where polling will be held in the first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Four years after its abrogation, Article 370 has taken centre stage in the election campaigns in Jammu and Kashmir.

PM Modi in Udhampur today: Top updates

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a massive rally in Udhampur's Batal Ballian area on Friday.

Time is not far when assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir and statehood will be restored, Modi at the Udhampur rally.

Please trust me, I will get rid of problems plaguing Jammu and Kashmir for the last 60 years, Modi said.

I challenge any political party, especially Congress, to get back Article 370. They cannot do it, the PM said.

Fulfilled promise of ending long sufferings of people of Jammu and Kashmir, the prime minister said.

"After decades, election happening in Jammu and Kashmir without fear of terrorism and threat of cross-border firing," Modi said.

Tight security arrangements

The authorities have activated multi-tier security arrangements, including a ban on the flying of drones. The security agencies have issued advisories and Standard Operating Procedures (SoP) for people attending the rally and for the security personnel in view of the threat perception.

Security arrangements include elaborate deployments, area domination, checkpoints and alertness in areas and vigilance on vital installations in the region by various security agencies.

News agency PTI, citing officials, reported the security personnel have been put on duty along the Jammu-Udhampur highway and vital junctions amid the setting up of additional checkpoints to monitor the commuters.

Frisking has been intensified at major spots on the highway, the officials said.

This was Modi's third visit to Jammu and Kashmir in over one and a half months. The prime minister held rallies while inaugurating several development projects on February 20 and March 7 in Jammu and Srinagar cities.

About Udhampur Lok Sabha seat
Jammu Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) president Farooq Abdullah on Friday announced the candidature of Omar Abdullah from North Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Farooq Abdullah (L) along with his son and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah.(AFP)

The party's vice president and former chief minister will fight from Baramulla parliamentary constituency and senior leader Ruhullah Mehdi will be the party's Lok Sabha candidate from Srinagar Parliamentary constituency.

ALSO READ- Amit Shah says Centre will consider revoking AFSPA in Jammu and Kashmir

My fight against the political machinations of the BJP: Omar Abdullah

It has been decided that I will be contesting from North Kashmir because BJP is focusing a lot on North Kashmir. I want these powers to be defeated in North Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said after the announcement.

My fight is not against an individual, it is against the skullduggery, treachery, and the political machinations of the BJP," he added.

Omar Abdullah, NC vice president, will contest Lok Sabha polls for the first time since 2009. He is also shifting from his stance which he held post-Article 370 abrogation, vowing not to contest until J-K regains statehood.

ALSO READ- Narendra Modi in Udhampur: J&K assembly polls soon, statehood to be restored, says PM

Baramulla Lok Sabha seat - a constituency set for close fight

1. The Baramulla Lok Sabha seat, covering 18 assembly segments, is a closely watched contest due to changes in electoral dynamics post-delimitation.

2. Peoples Conference chief Sajad Gani Lone poses a significant challenge to the National Conference (NC) in the largely direct contest for the seat.

3. The NC candidate relies on Shia support in areas like Budgam, Beerwah, and Bandipora, among others, to bolster his campaign.

ALSO READ- Omar Abdullah blasts Ghulam Nabi Azad over secret meetings with Modi-Shah claim

4. Delimitation in 2019 expanded the constituency to include two Shia-dominated assembly seats from Budgam district, among others, altering the electoral landscape.

5. Previous elections saw NC dominate the seat, while the Congress and PDP have also secured victories. Independents like Sheikh Abdul Rashid, currently in NIA custody, remain influential in segments like Langate, where his party plans to field him despite his detention.

(Inputs from PTI)
Uttarkhands drug controller sought responses from Patanjali Ayurved over its misleading ads promising miracle cures for serious ailments under a section of the Drugs and Cosmetic Rules Act, 1945 that had been stayed by the Bombay high court, and not under the pertinent provisions of the Drugs & Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, according to official documents and people aware of the matter. Yoga guru Baba Ramdev (HT File Photo/ Sunil Ghosh)

This happened not once but five times between April 2022 and February this year. Patanjali, its public face Baba Ramdev, and its managing director Balakrishna, have come under criticism by the Supreme Court in connection with the companys and their lapses in adhering to an order from the court on stopping such misleading ads, in response to a case filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA).

The roles of the state and the Union government have also come under the courts scrutiny.

In what some people see as a response to such criticism, the Union government, through the ministry of health and family welfare, issued a public notice in several newspapers in the past week titled Prohibition of advertisement of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani & Homeopathy or any other drug or treatment of diseases mentioned in Schedule of Drugs & Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954. The notice said that ads or announcements claiming treatment of diseases mentioned in the aforementioned schedule and publication of misleading advertisements making false claims is an offence under the Act.

Also Read | The Patanjali proceedings: A brief overview of the case

But what is not clear is why Uttarakhands drug controller, Ayurvedic and Unani Services, did not even mention this law in its notices to Patanjali Ayurveda and its subsidiary Divya Pharmacy.

The drug controller issued notices to the company under Rule 170 of Drugs and Cosmetic Rules Act, 1945, and not under Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, according to information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) law, by Kerala-based activist Dr KV Babu. Rule 170 prohibits the advertisement of Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani drugs without the state licensing authoritys approval. It was stayed by the Bombay high court in February 2019 following a petition by the Ayurvedic Drug Manufacturers Association, of which Divya Pharmacy is a member.

The drug controllers action came under judicial scrutiny when the Supreme Court said on Wednesday that the Uttarakhand government kept its eyes shut by not cracking down on misleading advertisements that made false claims of curing diseases such as diabetes and asthma. A bench of justices Hima Kohli and Asanuddin Amanullah also pulled up the state and central governments for failing to register cases.

I agree with the Supreme Court, said Kerala-based doctor Dr KV Babu, who has filed several RTI applications on the misleading advertisements, alleging that the state government deliberately did not take any action against the company despite clear violations.

The fact is that all they have been doing since 2022 is communicating with each other (Uttarakhand drug controller with the Ayush ministry and the local drug inspector) without taking any concrete action against Patanjali Ayurved or Divya Pharmacy under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954 under which I had lodged the complaint in February 2022, he said.

Dr Babu said that after he raised the issue in February 2022, the State Licensing Authority (SLA) conducted three inspections and issued five notices. But no concrete action was taken. The inspections were carried out in November 2022, March 2023 and March 2024. Five notices were issued to Patanjali Ayurved in April 2022, November 2022, March 2023, and November-December 2022 and January-February 2024.

His complaint was specifically regarding a misleading advertisement by Divya Pharmacy carried by a newspaper on 21st February 2022, and based on it the Ayush ministry asked the SLA Uttarakhand to investigate the matter for withdrawal of advertisement for contravening the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.

But, as mentioned above, the drug controller instead issued notices to the company under Rule 170 of Drugs and Cosmetic Rules Act, 1945.

In November 2022, Dr Babu received a reply from the ministry that no action can be taken as the matter (related to Rule 170) was subjudice and pending before the Honble High Court, Mumbai in Writ petition 289 of 2019, and the necessary action may be taken subject to the final decision of the court.

In the Supreme Court, the SLA said in its affidavit that in spite of multiple notices sent by the State Authorities to Divya Pharmacy and Respondent No. 5 Company-Patanjali Ayurved Limited; to all such notices, Divya Pharmacy/Patanjali Ayurved Limited has replied by taking refuge under the Bombay High Courts Interim Order (Annexure R-3).

Therefore, in view of the above Stay Order and pending petition before the Bombay High, Court, the SLA at its level, could not take coercive steps against Divya Pharmacy and/ or Patanjali Ayurved Limited, it added.

Assistant Drug Controller, Ayurvedic & Unani Services, Krishna Kant Pande said notices were issued to Patanjali Ayurved and Divya Pharmacy on the issue of misleading advertisements, but they couldnt proceed further as the matter was cited as subjudice.

Pande said they were not favouring Patanjali Ayurved in any way, Under Rule 170, Patanjali Ayurved had to seek permission for advertisements. They hadnt sought any permission and that is why they were issued notices, he said.

Patanjali Yogpeeth spokesperson SK Tijariwala said he was in a meeting.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a poll rally in Rajasthan on Friday, attacked the opposition parties for alleging that the BJP will change the Constitution if it wins the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi said that his government revered it and even Babasaheb Ambedkar would not be able to abolish it now. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public rally ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha election Friday (PTI)

PM Modi said during an election rally in Barmer, The Constitution of the country is everything for the (BJP) government and even if Babasaheb Ambedkar himself comes, he cannot abolish the Constitution. The prime minister also alleged that the Congress was standing with anti-national forces and hit out at the opposition INDIA bloc for "trying to weaken" the country.

Hitting back at the INDIA bloc, PM Modi further alleged that the Congress party is making attempts to destroy the Constitution by trying to impose an emergency in the country.

The prime minister said, The Congress tried to destroy the Constitution by imposing Emergency in the country and now it is taking cover in the name of the Constitution to abuse Modi.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had last month alleged that the "ultimate goal of Narendra Modi and the BJP is to destroy Babasaheb's Constitution" after BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde's statement that the party needs a two-thirds majority to amend the Constitution.

The BJP had dubbed Hegde's remarks "personal opinion" and sought clarification from him.

PM Modi, without being specific, said that the Congress party wrote in its manifesto for the upcoming elections about nuclear disarmament.

Should a country like India, whose neighbours on both sides have nuclear weapons, think about eliminating nuclear weapons? I want to ask the Congress, on whose instructions your INDI alliance is working, he said.

Earlier in the day, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed a poll rally in Tamil Nadu where he once again accused the BJP of attempting to change the Constitution of India if it is elected in power. Gandhi alleged that the saffron party openly stated that "they are going to change the Constitution" if they retained power at the Centre.

While the rest of the world earlier looked at India as a beacon of democracy; now it is of the view that India's democracy is no longer a democracy, the former Congress president alleged.

(With inputs from PTI)
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times' sister publication Hindustan, took a sharp jibe at the Opposition, alleging their leaders are not campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections because they believe that the NDA government will return to power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public meeting ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, in Karauli.(File photo)

PM Modi said the Opposition is certain of its defeat in the general elections.

"It is not the election, but the Opposition camp that is dull because of their certain defeat. Even the Opposition believes that the NDA government will return to power, which is why even several opposition leaders are shying away from poll campaigns Many people have started blaming EVMs (electronic voting machines) even before the polls have begun," he said.

Also read: INTERVIEW: Corruption hits all, action by agencies will not stop, says PM Modi

Amid Opposition's accusation that the Centre has been misusing agencies to target political opponents, PM Modi vowed that action against those who steal people's money will not end.

"Whatever be the level of corruption, it impacts the people of the country action against such people, who steal the money meant for the welfare of the people of this country, will not end," he said.

PM Modi rejected the Opposition's charge of misuse of agencies. He said out of all cases being probed by the Enforcement Directorate, only 3 percent were linked to those in politics.

PM Modi said those who benefit from corruption cry foul.

Of the corruption cases probed by the Enforcement Directorate, only three per cent have people associated with politics. The remaining 97 per cent cases are linked to officials and criminals. Those who see benefits in a corrupt system are the ones who are crying foul and presenting the wrong picture, he said.

"The narratives you have heard, that it is only political corruption that we are after, are being circulated by people who are under the sword of investigative agencies, he added.

PM Modi said the Enforcement Directorate took action against corrupt officers and attached assets worth thousands of crores.

Also read: As Opposition alleges political vendetta, Modi defends anti-graft action

Before 2014, ED attached assets worth only 5,000 crores, whereas in the last 10 years that amount has increased to more than 1 lakh crore. Before 2014, ED had seized only 34 lakh in cash, while under our government it has seized more than 2,200 crore in cash. Imagine, if this money was invested in welfare schemes for the poor, how many people would have benefited, how many opportunities could have been created for the youth. So many new infrastructure projects could have been launched, he said.

PM Modi also attacked the Congress party, saying they strengthened "their family" when they had full majority governments at the Centre. He said the BJP government has been strengthening the country.

"People have got the opportunity to compare the BJP model and the Congress model for the first time. The Congress ruled the country with full majority for 5-6 decades. In comparison, the BJP has served with absolute majority for only one decade. When they had full majority governments, all they did was strengthen their family. Today, when we have a majority government, our priority is to strengthen the country  villages, the poor, our farmers, and the middle class society," he said.

Voting for the seven-phased Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 19. Counting of votes will take place on June 4.
New Delhi: Reacting to the Opposition's charge that the BJP government at the Centre had misused agencies to get Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal arrested, defence minister Rajnath Singh wondered why courts didn't grant relief to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief. Defence minister Rajnath Singh during a public meeting in Uttar Pradesh. (PTI file photo)

In an interview, Rajnath Singh accused the Opposition of misleading the people of the country.

"Even if it is assumed that Arvind Kejriwal went to jail because of us, why is he not getting relief? Have we taken control of the courts also? What are these people trying to say? Let them have the audacity to say we have captured courts also...is it possible?" Rajnath Singh told ANI.

Singh said the Enforcement Directorate, CBI and the Income Tax department were doing their jobs. He said if the Opposition thought their leaders were being jailed over baseless allegations, they could get protection from courts.

Rajnath Singh said if AAP leader Sanjay Singh could get bail, why other leaders weren't able to get similar relief from courts.

"India has to be made corruption-free, this is the resolve of our Prime Minister (Narendra Modi). If they (Opposition parties) feel that they have been framed, their leaders are in jail on baseless allegations, they can get protection from courts. If Sanjay Singh (AAP leader) can get bail, why other (party leaders) have not been able to get similar relief, he told ANI.

Also read: People of PoK feel development only possible at hands of PM Modi: Rajnath Singh

AAP leader Sanjay Singh recently got bail in a money laundering case linked to the liquor policy scam. He was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in October last year.

His party colleague Manish Sisodia, however, has been languishing in jail over similar charges since February 2023. Several courts have dismissed his bail applications since his arrest.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested last month by the Enforcement Directorate in the liquor policy case. The Delhi High Court recently refused to strike down ED's action. He has moved the Supreme Court against the court verdict and arrest.

Also read: Delhi high court rejects Arvind Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest by ED

Rajnath Singh said the Opposition appeared to have no faith in courts.

Rajnath Singh on washing machine charge

The defence minister also reacted to the Congress party's allegation that BJP has a washing machine, which makes leaders of other parties "clean" after they join the ruling party.

He also said there was no washing machine in the BJP and the government wasn't telling agencies to arrest specific people.

"There is no washing machine, agencies have to do their work and they will do so. Are we telling agencies to arrest a specific person, these are baseless allegations. They are trying to cover up their mistakes, weaknesses, are trying to mislead the people and if they think that by misleading they can get away from allegations of corruption, they are mistaken," he told ANI.
New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the Congress party will go extinct like the dinosaurs in the next few years. Singh also compared the party with the house of Bigg Boss. Defence minister Rajnath Singh during a public meeting.(PTI file photo)

Rajnath Singh claimed the politicians of the Congress party are tearing each other's clothes on a daily basis. He said after a few years following the 2024 general elections, children will not even recognise the party.

His attack comes after a large number of Congress leaders quit the party and joined the NDA over the past few months.

These leaders include stalwarts like Milind Deora and Ashok Chavan. While Deora joined the Shiv Sena (UBT), Chavan joined the BJP and later became the party's Rajya Sabha MP.

"The exodus of leaders from the Congress continues. They are quitting the party one after another and joining the BJP. I am afraid that in a few years from now, the Congress will become extinct like the dinosaur," Rajnath Singh said.

Rajnath Singh made the remark while addressing a rally in Uttarakhand in support of BJP's Pauri candidate, Anil Baluni.

"They (Congress leaders) are fighting with each other on a daily basis. The party has become somewhat like the house of Bigg Boss on television. They are tearing each other's clothes on a daily basis," he added.

Rajnath Singh on Arvind Kejriwal's arrest

Rajnath Singh, in an interview with ANI on Thursday, slammed the Opposition for claiming that the Centre had been targeting opponents using central government's agencies.

"Even if it is assumed that Arvind Kejriwal went to jail because of us, why is he not getting relief? Have we taken control of the courts also? What are these people trying to say? Let them have the audacity to say we have captured courts also...is it possible?" Rajnath Singh told ANI.

Rajnath Singh also said there was no washing machine in the BJP and the central government wasn't telling agencies to arrest specific people.
Kozhikode, In a display of solidarity and compassion, people in Kerala have rallied together to raise an astounding 34 crore to save a man sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia. Abdul Rahim, who hails from Kozhikode, has spent 18 years behind bars in the Gulf nation for allegedly killing a Saudi boy in 2006. Until five days ago, the action committee, formed to work for the release of Rahim, could raise only a meagre amount but as the campaign intensified, help poured in from Kerala people from across the world, the organisers said on Friday. Local people said Rahim was jailed in 2006 after he accidently caused the death of a specially-abled boy whom he was taking care of. He was sentenced to death in 2018 after the family of the Saudi boy refused to grant amnesty. The action committee members told the media that the appeals were rejected by the top courts but later the family agreed to pardon Rahim if he pays the 'blood money.' "More than 75 organisations in Riyadh, Kerala-based businessman Bobby Chemmannur, various political organisations in the state, the common people all helped us to raise the money," an organiser told the media here. His mother said she never thought that such an amount could be raised. "I had no hope as we have no means to raise 34 crore. But somehow it was all made possible," she said. Chemmanur organised multiple events in the past few days to raise money. He also organised the sale of one of his products and donated the whole amount to the cause. The action committee had created a mobile application to ensure transparency in the matter.

HT Image
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who joined hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state once again, addressed the on-and-off alliance between his party and the ruling NDA and said Bihar was under the rule of pati-patni for 15 years  taking a jibe at RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi  both former chief ministers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during a public meeting ahead of Lok Sabha elections(HT photo)

While addressing a poll rally in Nawada, the Bihar chief minister pointed out that RJD and NDA have been together since 2005, while their partnership was under strain multiple times in the last two decades. You know that since the time we got an opportunity since November 2005, we started working together with the BJP. Beech mein do jagah hum idhar udhar ho gaye they lekin fir wapas ho gaye hain, ab idhar udhar hum honewale nahi hain. We have been working together since the beginning," Nitish Kumar said.

What was there in Bihar earlier? For 15 years, there was a rule of 'pati-patni'. Do you recall the days when no one was able to go out of their house in the evening. We were MP and minister at the Centre even then we had to walk to visit our constituency because there were no roads, the chief minister said.

After a brief stint with Congress and other parties in the Mahaganthbandhan (grand alliance) in the state, RJD returned to the NDA and joined hands with BJP earlier this year. The switchover led to Nitish Kumar taking oath as the chief minister of Bihar for the ninth time.

Nitish Kumar had earlier switched to the Mahaganthbandhan in August 2022 and formed a new government with the support of Congress and the RJD.

While explaining why Nitish Kumar joined the NDA once again this year, defence minister Rajnath Singh said that the party was happy to welcome him back to the alliance and he had no taint of corruption on him.

One should remember that there is no taint of corruption on him. This isn't a small thing and should be acknowledged. Hence, it only stands to reason that we would be happy to have a leader like him back with us, he said.
Heavy equipment is used to strengthen and raise a levee to protect the Kings County city of Corcoran from flooding in April of 2023. The area is vulnerable to flooding because it has subsided as a result of groundwater pumping. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

A stretch of California thats considered one of the fastest-sinking areas in the nation, where farms have pumped so much water from the ground that the land has slowly collapsed, is on the verge of state intervention.

In a first-ever move, California regulators are looking to step in and monitor groundwater pumping in the Tulare Lake subbasin, an 837-square-mile hydrological region flush with cotton, hay and almonds between Fresno and Bakersfield. Because of heavy pumping, some places in the area are sinking a foot a year, causing roads to buckle and canals to crack.

Growers and government officials in this farm belt, who dont always take kindly to policies in Sacramento, are urging the state to stay out for fear of losing control of their water, the regions lifeblood. But state regulators say local leadership has failed to act to protect groundwater and that oversight may be whats needed to shore up over-drafted aquifers, keep wells from going dry and halt land subsidence. Subsidence occurs because water helps prop up the land, and when so much water is gone, so is the support.



The looming confrontation between the state and water agencies marks the latest, and one of the most significant, developments with Californias decade-old groundwater legislation, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, or SGMA.

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The 2014 measure was enacted to begin regulating groundwater for the first time. While taking water from rivers and streams has long been subject to restrictions in California, pumping water from the ground has been largely a free-for-all. During periods of drought, groundwater accounts for as much as 60% of the states total water supply.

Were concerned about groundwater levels continuing to decline, said Natalie Stork, SGMA program manager for the State Water Resources Control Board. People may be concerned about the SGMA process and how that might affect their livelihoods and business. But what happens if there wasnt SGMA? It would come down to who has the longest straw to get whatever last water is left behind.

The state water board is scheduled to decide Tuesday whether to put the Tulare Lake subbasin in probation. Although the 2014 groundwater act gives communities 25 years to begin sustainably managing their aquifers and calls for local water agencies to take the lead, regulators say water managers in the Tulare Lake subbasin havent made sufficient headway. Specifically, regulators say, they have failed to submit an acceptable plan for how theyll eventually restore groundwater levels.

Should the state water board put the subbasin in probation, which the agencys staff is recommending, regulators would have the authority to require large landowners to install meters on their pumps, report how much groundwater they draw and pay fees for pumping.

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If regulators dont see progress after a year, the state board could take the additional step of imposing terms for pumping, meaning groundwater restrictions.

The Tulare Lake subbasin is the first region to face the threat of probation under the groundwater act. More than 90 areas where over-pumping is an issue in California have been or soon will be required to submit plans for sustainable groundwater management. Five other subbasins, also in the San Joaquin Valley, havent produced adequate plans and are being scheduled for future probation hearings.

In the Tulare Lake area, where about 150,000 people live amid the farms and dairies, many residents say the proposed intervention is neither warranted nor workable. They want more time and flexibility from regulators.

If the state comes in and puts our area in probation and does the huge cuts theyre talking about, theres going to be a huge impact on the economy, said Joe Neves, a supervisor in Kings County. It will be catastrophic for cities and industries.

Agriculture is foundational for the region. Kings County ranks among the states top 10 in farm output, with more than $2.5 billion of annual crops and other products, such as milk.

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One of the most immediate concerns is the affordability of pumping fees the state would levy if the subbasin is put in probation. The fees are meant to recover the states oversight costs, but local leaders have estimated the charges, as initially proposed, would amount to at least $20 million a year, likely far greater than the states expenses.

Amid the criticism, the state recently halved its proposed per-unit pumping fee to $20 per acre-foot of water.

Others in the region are expressing a more fundamental concern. They worry the state wont back off until so much groundwater is put off-limits that farming will no longer be possible. In recent years, many growers in the area have transitioned to more lucrative permanent crops, such as nuts and grapes, which require much more water to farm.

The biggest landowner in the region, agricultural giant J.G. Boswell Co., submitted a letter to the state water board protesting the proposed probation. The company alleges several legal problems with the facts and reasoning that state regulators use to justify the intervention and suggests groundwater should remain under local control.

While the amount of water use in the area remains opaque, the Boswell Co. is believed to be perhaps the largest consumer of groundwater, and it commands huge sway over how water in the subbasin is managed. The company has not returned calls from the Chronicle, and the El Rico Groundwater Sustainability Agency, which is chaired by a company vice president, declined to discuss the matter.

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El Rico is the largest of five agencies established in the subbasin to come up with a state-approved groundwater plan. The agencies, which represent different communities and interests, have often tangled on how to move forward, an additional reason for the lack of progress.

Deanna Jackson, executive director of the Tri-County Water Authority, another agency involved in drafting the plan, says the subbasin is actively revising its last submission to the state, hoping to win approval.

It takes time, she said. Its very different from anything agriculture has seen before.

Jackson also has asked the state to exclude her agency from probation because it doesnt pump much water from the subbasin. It gets most of its supply from neighboring aquifers.

State regulators insist that they want to keep groundwater management in local hands, and dont want to be punitive. But they note that theyre legally bound to make sure Californias aquifers are on a path to recovery. The Tulare Lake subbasins plan, according to a March state report, falls short on several fronts.

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Among the flaws cited: The plan allows groundwater levels to continue dropping, in many areas to well beneath historic lows; hundreds of domestic wells, many in disadvantaged farmworker communities, would likely go dry under the plan; and threats to infrastructure from land subsidence are not clearly identified.

The problem with ignoring the groundwater issues, and namely subsidence, was on display prominently last year. With the historically wet weather, the Kings County city of Corcoran and its two state prison facilities were threatened by flooding with the re-emergence of an ancient lake, Tulare Lake, partly because the area sits so low due to subsidence. The city has sunk nearly five feet over the past decade.

Caitrin Chappelle, associate director of the Nature Conservancys water program in California, said what regulators decide to do with the Tulare Lake subbasin is being watched by water managers across the state for insight into future implementation of the 2014 legislation.
The Supreme Court has dismissed the Union governments review petition against a decision requiring the Army and Air Force to jointly pay over 1.5 crore to a former air force corporal who contracted HIV from a blood transfusion at a military hospital in 2002. Supreme Court of India (HT Photo)

The government challenged the courts September 26 ruling last year that found the Army and Air Force guilty of medical negligence in failing to ensure the highest safety standards for military personnel. The retired corporal, discharged in 2016, was also granted benefits including free medical care and disability pension.

On April 3, Justices Dipankar Datta and PB Varale said in an order, the judgment and order under review does not suffer from any error, much less apparent error, warranting its reconsideration. The court also dismissed the governments request for an open court hearing of the review petition.

The airman, whose identity has been protected by the court, filed a contempt petition after six months passed without receiving the ordered compensation. Last month, the court directed the government to immediately release his disability pension, 25,000 allowance for monthly hospital visits, and an additional 18 lakh for a caretaker, within a week.

The airman joined the Air Force in 1996 and received the tainted blood transfusion in July 2002 during Operation Parakram, a military standoff with Pakistan. He was not diagnosed with HIV until May 2014 at a naval hospital in Mumbai, after a military hospital failed to detect it earlier that year.

In the original September judgment, Justices S Ravindra Bhat and Dipankar Datta held the Army and Air Force vicariously liable for medical negligence, awarding the HIV-positive soldier 1.5 crore in compensation. The Air Force was allowed to seek reimbursement of up to half the amount from the Army (which was in charge of the field hospital where the transfusion took place.

Justice Bhat wrote, No amount of compensation can undo the harm caused by such behaviour which has shaken the foundation of the appellants dignity, robbed him of honour, and rendered him not only desperate, but cynical.

People sign up to join the armed forces with considerable enthusiasm and sense of patriotic duty... to put their lives on the line and be prepared for the ultimate sacrifice of their lives. A corresponding duty is cast on all state functionaries, including echelons of power within the armed forces to ensure that the highest standard of safety, which is physical and mental well-being, is maintained, the ruling added.

The airmans wife left him due to his condition, and after being discharged, he filed a complaint with the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission seeking 95 crore from the Air Force for negligence. The commission dismissed his petition in August 2021, prompting his appeal.

In recent contempt proceedings, amicus curiae Vanshaja Shukla warned that the petitioners CD4 count, indicating immune system health, had fallen to a concerning level of 256. His CD4 level has fallen to 256. If it goes below 200, he will become an AIDS patient. Shukla said emphasising that delay on part of Centre to pay him the compensation will adversely affect his health and sustenance.

The court ordered the government to deposit the remaining compensation with its registry within two weeks and said it will review compliance on July 16.
Hyderabad, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Friday asked officials to take tough action against traders and millers if they purchase paddy for a low price from farmers. HT Image

Reddy, who held a meeting with ministers and officials on paddy purchase and drinking water supply, directed officials to cancel the trade licences of millers and traders if they purchase paddy for a low price in state-run agriculture market yards.

The CM said it had come to his notice that traders and millers reduced the price due to moisture content in the paddy at some places, an official release said.

He appealed to the farmers to dry the paddy which contained higher levels of moisture before bringing it to the markets.

Officials have been asked to make suitable arrangements for drying the paddy and also install CCTVs in the market yards to prevent paddy theft, the release said.

Revanth Reddy directed the Collectors of all districts to inspect the markets and paddy purchase centres under their jurisdiction and ensure that purchases are made smoothly without any inconvenience to the farmers.

Officials were instructed to provide Minimum Support Price to the paddy and to resolve complaints, if any, from farmers instantly.

The CM ordered state-level officials to monitor the paddy procurement on a daily basis. The officials concerned have been advised to conduct field visits and examine paddy procurement at the ground level, it said.

The CM also suggested that IAS officers who have been appointed as special officers to monitor drinking water supply in various districts during the summer season should also monitor paddy procurement.

He cautioned officials that false complaints and some false reports were circulating to bring a bad name to the government for political mileage in view of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections and that complaints should be made immediately to the Election Commission on such matters.

The CM also directed officials to take precautionary measures to prevent drinking water problems in all towns and villages of the state.

The CM warned that the next two months would be more crucial in view of the scorching heat.

He told officials to be ready with alternative arrangements even if the demand increases further to ensure that there is no disruption in the supply of drinking water in Hyderabad.

If necessary, water should be taken from Nagarjuna Sagar dead storage levels to supply to Hyderabad and appropriate arrangements should be made immediately, he said.

As there is no availability of water in the Krishna river basin, the CM asked the officials to consult the government in neighbouring Karnataka for the release of water from Narayanpur reservoir for the purpose of drinking water needs, the release said.

Responding to media reports about farmers protesting against low price being offered to their produce at Jangaon, Revanth Reddy on Thursday asserted the government would not tolerate farmers being taken for a ride in the purchase of paddy.

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Tamil Nadu BJP president and former IPS officer K Annamalai on Friday released party's manifesto for the Coimbatore Lok Sabha constituency from where he is contesting the upcoming polls. At the launch of the manifesto, Annamalai was flanked by BJP Mahila Morcha national president and Coimbatore South legislator, Vanathi Srinivasan, among others. In the manifesto, Annamalai has made a slew of lucrative promises. Tamil Nadu BJP president and former IPS officer K Annamalai on Friday released party's manifesto for the Coimbatore Lok Sabha constituency from where he is contesting the upcoming polls.

Addressing a press conference, Annamalai said that the party will work to fulfil "100 assurances in 500 days," reported news agency PTI.

"When people bless us, your brother Annamalai will bring Coimbatore on the international map," he said.

ALSO READ| Dayanidhi Maran calls Annamalai 'joker' and says he won't take his words back

Some of the promises made by Annamalai in the manifesto

Establishment of an IIM

Establishment of units of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in the city.

Introduction of round-the-clock mobile food vans named after the legendary leader and former Tamil Nadu CM K Kamaraj.

Upgradation of the existing airport as an international terminal

Setting up a cancer treatment centre

Setting up of Navodaya schools

Issues related to Noyyal and Kousika rivers will be addressed

Meanwhile, police informed Friday that a case has been lodged against Annamalai and a few members of his party over an alleged poll campaign time violation.

DMK workers and their allies on Thursday night objected to BJP members campaigning beyond the Election Commissions stipulated time and this led to a quarrel between the two parties in the Avarampalayam area, police said. A complaint was lodged by a DMK member and Peelamedu police booked cases against four BJP functionaries under various sections of the IPC.

Polling is set to be held in the Coimbatore Lok Sabha constituency on April 19.
New Delhi, With the completion of mining work in 10 out of 14 tunnels, the Railways has set a new deadline of August 2025 to finish the Sivok-Rangpo Rail Project which will connect Sikkim with the rest of the country through a rail network for the first time, a senior official said on Friday. HT Image

The project, covering a total length of 44.96 km between Sivok to Ranpo , has 14 tunnels, 22 bridges and five railway stations viz Sivok, Riyang, Teesta Bazar, Melli and Rangpo.

At present, trains going towards Guwahati from other parts of the country pass through Sivok railway station which now pave the way for a new rail route to Rangpo in Sikkim via Riyang, Teesta and Melli .

"Out of the 14 tunnels, mining work has been completed in 10. Out of the 10, we have completed the lining work in four tunnels with work going on in the rest six. The longest tunnel is 5.3 km and the shortest one 538 metres," the official said.

He added, "Out of 13 major bridges, 12 are ready with the substructure. The maximum height of the pier is 85 metre, constructing which was itself an uphill task. The most demanding aspect of the project is that 86 per cent of the total rail line passes through tunnels and five percent over bridges. Only nine percent is under the open sky."

Talking about the challenge in meeting the August 2025 deadline, he said, "We experienced significant squeezing/deformation in T-8 and T-10 due to the very poor strata of rocks. We took remedial measures to control it by cement consolidation, grouting and increased primary support as per the design," an official from Ircon International, which is constructing the whole project, said.

He added, "To address this issue, several other corrective measures had been taken. However, progress has been slow, due to challenging rock conditions. To address this challenge, project engineers have adopted specialized support methods."

Project officials say that Teesta Bazar station, which is the country's first underground railway station, is also nearing completion with the last leg of work going on.

"We will start laying rail tracks from the end of May from Tunnel 14 which falls in Rangpo," the Ircon official said.

He added, "Despite encountering challenging geological conditions and steep terrain, the SRRP team continues to make steady progress. The disruption in communication along NH-10 from Sivok to Rangpo over the past four months due to the flash flood on River Teesta on October 4, 2023 has significantly impacted tunnel, bridge, and yard works."

Although this project was sanctioned in 2009-10, the land acquisition and forest clearances issued delayed its progress as the rail line crosses through Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Kurseong forest division, Darjeeling forest division, Kalimpong forest division and the East Sikkim forest division.

The work progress of the project also suffered due to the COVID pandemic from March 2020 to September 2020 and December 2020 to Feb 2021.

Railway officials say that at present all the tenders for the tunnels, bridges and yards have been awarded and execution of the works is in progress.

"The initial cost of the project was 4,085 crores but the revised cost is 12,132.95 crores approximately," the Ircon official said.

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NEW DELHI: The organisers of an upcoming conference on peace in Ukraine are looking to India to help shape the agenda for the meeting of the heads of state and government, including possible solutions to the conflict, people familiar with the matter said. Following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys request, the Swiss government this week announced plans to hold the so-called peace summit (AP)

Following a request from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in January, the Swiss government this week announced plans to hold the so-called peace summit at the five-star Burgenstock Hotel above Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland in June. Though no dates were announced, the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation reported the meet will be held on June 15-16.

While formal invitations for the conference are yet to be sent out, the Indian side was informally sounded out about the meeting when Swiss foreign minister Ignazio Cassis made a brief visit to New Delhi on February 5 to meet his Indian counterpart, S Jaishankar, the people said on condition of anonymity.

Besides seeking Indias participation in the peace summit, the Swiss side called on New Delhi to play a role in shaping the agenda and discussions, the people said. Around 120 countries will be invited at the level of heads of state and government.

We not only want India to participate but also take on a role in fashioning the agenda and possible solutions to the Ukraine war. India is uniquely placed because of its relations with all the players, a person familiar with the discussions said.

India can pick and choose topics from President Zelenskyys 10-point peace formula or it can even bring other topics and solutions to the table, the person said.

Zelenskyys formula envisages the restoration of Ukraines territorial integrity, withdrawal of Russian troops, formal confirmation of the end of the war, and radiation and nuclear safety, especially in the context of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

The people emphasised that, as of now, the conference isnt expected to lead to any breakthrough that ends the fighting. The meeting will mark the start of a process that could lead to a possible solution, they said.

The Indian side is yet to take a call on the level of the countrys participation in the peace summit, the people said. Earlier, there was speculation that India might not be able to participate at the highest level if the conference is held too close to the end of the election cycle. With the election results to be announced on June 4, there will be enough time for the prime minister to take a call on attending the meeting, the people said.

The Indian premier is also expected to be invited to outreach sessions of the G7 Summit to be held at Apulia in Italy on June 13-15, and the two visits could be clubbed, the people said.

The Swiss and Ukrainian governments have emphasised the importance of engaging India for the peace summit given its standing in the Global South. Indias participation in the conference topped the agenda for Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kulebas visit to New Delhi in March.

India can take the lead to become the first major non-Western power to openly support the summit on President Zelenskyys peace formula...India is a voice that matters to others, especially in the Global South, and it will help to convince them, Kuleba said in an interview to HT on March 29.

The Swiss government too has said it believes the participation of Brics states  Brazil, India, China and South Africa  will be crucial. Besides India, Swiss foreign minister Cassis travelled to China in February. A Swiss foreign ministry spokesman told Bloomberg this week it is important to listen to the Global South as it will play a key role in the eventual inclusion of Russia in the peace process.

India has refrained from publicly criticising Russias invasion of Ukraine. However, during separate phone calls with Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 20, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and India backs all steps for the early and peaceful resolution of issues between the two sides.

US President Joe Biden is expected to participate in the peace summit as he is scheduled to join the G7 Summit, Switzerlands Neue Zurcher Zeitung newspaper reported citing several sources. Chinas ambassador to Switzerland has been quoted by the media as saying that Beijing is examining the possibility of taking part.

It is unlikely that Russia will be part of the conference.

The Swiss government, in an official statement, said the conference will be an opportunity to discuss different approaches to peace in Ukraine, and it aims to provide a platform for a high-level dialogue on ways to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine based on international law and the UN Charter. It also aims to create a common understanding of the framework conducive to this goal and a concrete roadmap for the peace process.
Former Maharashtra CM and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray was seen travelling in a Mumbai local train after visiting Palghar earlier in the day. Sharing of video of Thackeray seated inside a Mumbai local train along with his party leaders, Shiv Sena wrote on X, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) party chief Uddhav Thackeray travels from Boisar to Bandra in Mumbai local train the party captioned the post. Uddhav Thackeray seen travelling in a Mumbai local train post his visit to Palghar on Friday.(X/Shiv Sena UBT)

In the video, Thackeray was seen conversing with other party leaders. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut was also present.

During his visit to Palghar on Friday, Thackeray vowed to scrap the Vadhavan port project, which he said the local fishermen are opposing. Addressing a rally in Boisar, Thackeray said the Vadhavan project was scrapped when the Shiv Sena-BJP parties were in power from 1995 to 1999. Thackeray said he had personally visited the area then and interacted with the villagers and fishermen.

"If you are going ahead with the Vadhavan project not taking into consideration the concerns of people, then go ahead. We will run the people's bulldozer over this government," Thackeray said in a warning to the Centre and the Maharashtra government.

Shiv Sena (UBT) has fielded Bharti Kamdi, a grassroots worker associated with the party since the late nineties, as its candidate from Palghar. The Palghar seat is, at present, represented by Rajendra Gavit of the Shiv Sena, who is now with Shinde.

Earlier this year, the Vadhavan Port received clearance from the ministry of environment, forest and climate change.

The 76,220-crore Vadhavan Port is being developed by Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) and Maharashtra Maritime Board. It received in-principle approval from the Centre on February 13, 2020, while the terms of reference (ToR) were approved on October 7 of the same year.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Greek mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras discovered, in the 6th century BCE, that harmony could also be a matter of math. There are ratios at play that indicate (or determine, who can say) which notes sound best together, when played on certain instruments. (Click here for a bit more on this.)

About 1,000 years later, in the 16th century, the modern study of waves and acoustics began, with Italian astronomer, mathematician and philosopher Galileo Galilei exploring the relationship between the pitch of a taut string and its vibrating length.

It wasnt until the late-17th century that the French physicist Joseph Sauveur first suggested the name acoustics for the study of sound, separating it and calling it a science superior to music.

But hearing, of course, goes back to early life on the planet. The first organisms to hear were single-celled aquatic life forms from hundreds of millions of years ago. They evolved tiny hair-like structures called cilia that allowed them to sense the vibrations and movement of other organisms in water, and this ability was passed down to ancient fish.

When life left the water, hearing on land presented new challenges. Palaeontological data indicates that the ear drum most likely evolved in the Triassic period, about 100 million years after the first vertebrates walked on land. The drum made it easier to hear sounds propagated through the air; evolving the ability to hear such sounds more keenly could mean the difference between survival and extinction.

Humans have been fascinated by who can hear, and how, for centuries. And there is some brutal history to the way weve studied sound.

Lets start out with something lighter. Charles Darwin tried to find out if plants could hear by playing a bassoon to a mimosa, wondering if it would close its leaves in response as it did when touched. He later went on to call it a fools experiment but studies since have shown that sounds played repeatedly over long periods can induce plants to germinate and grow slower or faster.

This isnt strictly hearing; it is sensitivity to vibrations. Plants do use sound, however. They locate water and grow towards it, for instance, based on the vibrations caused as water moves through earth, or through a pipe.

Now to the rougher stuff. In 1793, the Italian priest and biologist Lazzaro Spallanzani surgically blinded bats, removing their eyeballs to see if they could really still fly past obstacles in the dark.

When they continued to do so with relative ease, he plugged their ear canals, which led them to collide with objects in their path. Spallanzani didnt learn much from this either. It would be another 150 years until the term echolocation was coined, in 1944, by a 29-year-old zoologist named Donald Griffin.

A particularly delightful experiment in sound, meanwhile, proved that a certain pitch can put out a fire.

It all began in 1912, when American naturalist Charles Kellogg, known for his mimicry of birdsongs, announced that he could extinguish flames by drawing the bow of a violin across a tuning fork. The scientific community reportedly did not know what to make of his demonstrations then. But over 100 years later, in 2015, two engineering students at George Mason University in Virginia, Viet Tran and Seth Robertson, managed to create a fire extinguisher as part of their senior research project that operates in just the same way.

They found that sounds that are emitted as pressure waves, in the right frequency (a bass range of 30 to 60 Hz), can reliably put out small fires, as they displace oxygen from the area near flames and fuel. There has been no talk of commercial application; one would presumably feel a bit foolish trying to size up a fire and determine whether to pull up a playlist or reach for an extinguisher.

Perhaps it is incredible enough that it works.
Over 200 works by Indian modernist KG Subramanyan, including his iconic reverse paintings on acrylic and the maquettes for his powerful mural The War of the Relics, are part of a new retrospective-scale exhibition here at Emami Art. One Hundred Years and Counting: Re-Scripting KG Subramanyan, curated by Nancy Adajania and organised by Emami Art in collaboration with Seagull Foundation for the Arts, and Faculty of Fine Arts, MS University, Baroda, marks the artists birth centenary year. New exhibition 'One Hundred Years and Counting: Re-Scripting KG Subramanyan' celebrates birth centenary(HT File Photo)

Spanning more than seven decades of Subramanyans practice, the exhibition features his early paintings from the 1950s, his impressions of his Chinese travels from the 1980s in postcard-size drawings, toys made for the Fine Arts Fairs at the MS University, Baroda, and a significant amount of archival material such as handcrafted mock-ups of children's books, and preparatory sketches for murals.

The show aims to situate and re-assess the artist in the larger cultural scenario of postcolonial Indias unfolding modernism and affirm the continuing relevance of his practice. Widely revered for his profound erudition and wit, he was a versatile and multifaceted artist who made the most original contribution to modern art practices in India after Independence, creating a powerful language which is highly eclectic.

The exhibition aims to present the master in a new light, establishing new relationships and opening up new avenues of discourse and debates, Richa Agarwal, ceo, Emami Art, said in a statement. Born in 1924 in Kerala, Subramanyan played a pivotal role in shaping Indias artistic identity after Independence.

Graduating in 1948 from Kala Bhavan, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, he worked under luminaries such as Benode Behari Mukherjee, Nandalal Bose and Ramkinkar Baij. Subramanyan then taught at MS University, Baroda, before returning to his alma mater in Santiniketan as a professor in 1980.

Talking about Subramanyan, Adajania said that the centenary offers an opportunity to reflect on less evident aspects of the artists oeuvre that may have eluded sustained critical attention. In his work, he engaged both manifestly and in subtle ways with the legacies of Gandhi, Tagore and Nehru. Today, all these figures have either been neutralised as icons emptied of content or vilified as bearers of historical error.

In such a state of permanent emergency, it becomes vital to revisit the practice of an artist-activist like Subramanyan  who taught us to address the past as critical agents, rather than as puppets of stifling traditions, Adajania said. The exhibition features his political work, including his terracottas commemorating the 1971 Bangladesh War and the critique of the 1975-1977 Emergency in his childrens book, The Talking Face.

Adajania noted that these works by Subramanyan should be seen as his continuous process of political philosophising instead of singular reactions to political events. The exhibition will also focus on Subramanyans work process through archival material, including the mock-ups of his childrens book, When Hanu Becomes Hanuman, as well as his preparatory sketches for the murals with textual and visual marginalia that reveal his ideological affinity for the Gandhian notion of an idealised village.

This show will avoid the pitfalls of hagiography, by pointing up the contradictions and ambivalences in his evolving political stance. Within this context, Subramanyans ambivalent take on female agency and sexuality will also be engaged with throughout the show in a critical spirit, Adajania added. The exhibition will come to an end on June 21.
Egyptians mummified their pharaohs so that they could arise corporeally at some point in the future for their journey in the afterworld. Surely now, a few millennia after the pharaohs and with more than a century of modern biology behind us, we would not do anything even remotely so superstitious. But in fact, there is a modern equivalent.

Biologists have long wanted to be able to freeze specimens so that they can store and use them later. This is not so straightforward because all living things are composed mostly of water. When this water freezes into ice and expands, it has the nasty habit of bursting open cells and tissues. This is partly why if you freeze fresh strawberries and thaw them, you wind up with goopy, unappetizing mush.

An entire field of biology, cryopreservation, studies how to freeze samples so that they are still viable when thawed later. It has developed useful techniques, such as how to store stem cells and other important samples in liquid nitrogen. It has figured out how to safely freeze semen from sperm donors and human embryos for in vitro fertilization treatment down the road. Animal embryos are routinely frozen to preserve specific strains, and biologists favorite worms can be frozen as larvae and revived. For many types of cells and tissues, cryopreservation works. It is often done by using additives such as glycerol, which allow cooling to very low temperatures without letting the water turn into iceeffectively like adding an antifreeze to the sample. In this case, the water forms a glass-like state rather than ice, and the process should be called vitrification rather than freezing (the word vitreous derives from the Latin root for glass), but even scientists casually refer to it as freezing and the specimens as frozen.

Enter cryonics, in which entire people are frozen immediately after death with the idea of defrosting them later when a cure for whatever ailed them has been found. The idea has been around a long time, but it gained traction through the work of Robert Ettinger, a college physics and math teacher from Michigan who also wrote science fiction. Ettinger had a vision of future scientists reviving these frozen bodies and not only curing whatever had ailed them but also making them young again. In 1976 he founded the Cryonics Institute near Detroit and persuaded more than a hundred people to pay $28,000 each to have their bodies preserved in liquid nitrogen in large containers. One of the first people to be frozen was his own mother, Rhea, who died in 1977. His two wives are also stored thereit is not clear exactly how happy they were to be stored next to each other or their mother-in-law for years or decades to come. Continuing this tradition of family closeness, when Ettinger died in 2011 at age ninety-two, he joined them.

Today there are several such cryonics facilities. Another popular one, Alcor Life Extension Foundation, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, charges about $200,000 for whole-body storage. How do these facilities work? Essentially, as soon as a person dies, the blood is drained and replaced with an antifreeze, and the body is then stored in liquid nitrogen. Theoretically, indefinitely.

Then there are the transhumanists who want to transcend our bodies entirely. But they dont want humanity as we know it to end before we have figured out a way to preserve our minds and consciousnesses indefinitely in some other form. In their view, intelligence and reason may be unique to human beings in the universe (or at least they see no evidence for extraterrestrial intelligence). To them, it is of cosmic importance to preserve our consciousnesses and minds and spread them throughout the universe. After all, what is the point of the universe if there is no intelligence to appreciate it?

These transhumanists are content to have only their brains frozen. This takes up less space and costs less. Moreover, it could be faster to infuse the magic antifreeze directly into the brain after death, increasing the odds of successful preservation. The brain is the seat of memories, consciousness, and reasoning, and that is their sole concern. At some point in the future, when the technology is ripe, the information in the brain will simply be downloaded to a computer or some similar entity. That entity will possess the persons consciousness and memories and will resume life. It wont be limited by human concerns such as the needs for food, water, oxygen, and a narrow range of temperature. We will have transcended our bodies, with the possibility of traveling anywhere in the universe. Not surprisingly, transhumanists are generally ardent about space travel, viewing it as our only chance to escape destruction on Earth. One such proponent is Elon Musk, said to be the wealthiest person in the world, depending on the year, who is well known for his desire to die on Mars, just not on impact. Presumably one of his first goals upon reaching the red planet will be to construct a cryonics facility.

The bad news is that there is not a shred of credible evidence that human cryogenics will ever work. The potential problems are myriad. By the time a technician can infuse the body, minutes or even hours may have elapsed since the moment of deatheven if the client moved right next to a facility in preparation. During that time, each cell in the deceased persons body is undergoing dramatic biochemical changes due to the lack of oxygen and nutrients, so that the state of a cryogenically frozen body is not the state of a live human being.

No matter, say cryo advocates: we simply must preserve the physical structure of the brain. As long as it is preserved enough that we can see the connections between all the billions of brain cells, we will be able to reconstruct the persons entire brain. Mapping all the neurons in a brain is an emerging science called connectomics. Although it has made tremendous advances, researchers are still ironing out the kinks on flies and other tiny organisms. And we dont yet have the know-how to properly maintain a corpse brain while we wait for connectomics to catch up. Only recently, after many years, has it been possible to preserve a mouse brain, and that requires infusing it with the embalming fluid while the mouses heart is still beatinga process that kills the mouse. Not one of these cryonics companies has produced any evidence that its procedures preserve the human brain in a way that would allow future scientists to obtain a complete map of its neuronal connections.

Even if we could develop such a map, it would not be nearly enough to simulate a brain. The idea of each neuron as a mere transistor in a computer circuit is hopelessly naive. Much of this book has emphasized the complexity of cells. Each cell in the brain has a constantly changing program being executed inside it, one that involves thousands of genes and proteins, and its relationship with other cells is ever shifting. Mapping the connections in the brain would be a major step forward in our understanding, but even that would be a static snapshot. It would not allow us to reconstruct the actual state of the frozen brain, let alone predict how it would think from that point on. It would be like trying to deduce the entire state of a country and its people, and predict its future development, from a detailed road map.

I spoke to Albert Cardona, a colleague of mine at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology who is a leading expert on the connectomics of the fly brain. Albert stresses that, in addition to the practical difficulties, the brains architecture and its very nature are shaped by its relationship to the rest of the body. Our brain evolved along with the rest of our body, and is constantly receiving and acting upon sensory inputs from the body. It is also not stable: new connections are added every day and pruned at night when we sleep. There are both daily and seasonal rhythms involving growth and death of neurons and this constant remodeling of the brain is poorly understood.

Moreover, a brain without a body would be a very different thing altogether. The brain is not driven solely by electrical impulses that travel through connections between neurons. It also responds to chemicals both within the brain and emanating from the rest of the body. Its motivation is driven very much by hormones, which originate in the organs, and includes basic needs such as hunger but also intrinsic desires. The pleasures our brains derive are mostly of the flesh. A good meal. Climbing a mountain. Exercise. Sex. Moreover, if we wait until we age and die, we would be pickling an old, decrepit brain, not the finely tuned machine of a twenty-five-year-old. What would be the point of preserving that brain?

Transhumanists argue that these problems can be solved with knowledge that mankind will acquire in the future. But they are basing their beliefs on the assumption that the brain is purely a computer, just different and more complex than our silicon-based machines. Of course, the brain is a computational organ, but the biological state of its neurons are as important as the connections between them in order to reconstruct its state at any given time. In any case, there is no evidence that freezing either the body or the brain and restoring it to a living state is remotely close to viable. Even if I were one of the customers who was sold on cryonics, I would worry about the longevity of these facilities, and even the societies and countries in which they exist. America, after all, is only about 250 years old.

(Excerpted with permission from Why We Die: The New Science of Ageing and the Quest for Immortality by Venki Ramakrishnan, published by Hachette India / Hodder & Stoughton; 2024)
This is that time of the year when spring comes in and marks the end of the cold harsh winters. This is the time for celebration and festivities. This is also the start of the harvest season, and multiple states of the country bask in celebrations. The start of the spring harvest festival also welcomes the New Year in many states in India. Be it Poila Boishak in West Bengal or Puthandu in Tamil Nadu or Ugadi in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, to Baisakhi in Punjab, people bask in festivities and welcome the spring harvest festival with open arms. Special dishes are prepared during this time and relished with loved ones. Be it Poila Boishak in West Bengal or Puthandu in Tamil Nadu or Ugadi in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, to Baisakhi in Punjab, people bask in festivities and welcome the spring harvest festival with open arms. (PTI)

ALSO READ: Ugadi 2024: Date, history, significance, celebrations and everything that you want to know

Interesting facts to know about the spring harvest festival

Poila Boishak: Poila Boishak marks the start of the fresh Bengali New Year. On this day, people start the festivities by visiting the temple and offering their puja. Then they prepare Poila Boishak-special dishes at home which are then relished with friends and family.

Baisakhi: It is a traditional festival celebrated all over in Punjab. People make kadha prasad with sugar, wheat flour and ghee and distribute it among others. They also celebrate the day with Gidda performances, folk songs and by attending the Langar.

Bohag Bihu: One of the main festivals of Assam, Bohag Bihu is a traditional festival marked with songs and dance. This is celebrated over a period of seven days in Assam.

Vishu: The day starts for people at sunrise by looking at the Vishu Kani. Vishu Kani is an arrangement of rice, flowers, coins, fruits, books, dhoti and other things that is made by the eldest member of the family a day before. The traditional metal lamp Nilavilakku is lit beside it.

Puthandu: The traditional Tamil New Year is celebrated with a lot of pomp and grandeur. People visit the temple and then prepare Pongal and Mango Pachadi at home.
Megan Fan Munce is a reporter on the climate team covering Californias home insurance crisis. She writes about the California FAIR Plan; State Farm non-renewals; pullbacks by other insurers such as Allstate and Farmers; policy initiatives from the California Department of Insurance; and how homeowners in the Bay Area and elsewhere are navigating the challenges.

Munce first joined the San Francisco Chronicle as part of the two-year Hearst Journalism Fellowship, spending her first year of the program at the Houston Chronicle. She grew up in San Jose before attending Northwestern Universitys Medill School of Journalism.
Eid-ul-Fitr is indeed one of the most significant festivals for Muslims, celebrated with great fervour worldwide. In India, where diverse cultures and traditions converge, each region adds its distinct customs, making the celebration truly unique. Bhopal, with its population of over 4.5 lakh Muslims according to the 2011 census, observes Eid with a blend of its own cultural heritage. In the City of Lakes, Eid festivities unfold vibrantly, especially in the old quarters of Bhopal, such as Chowk Bazaar, Ibrahimpura, Nadeem Road, Lakherapura, Itwara, Budhwara, and Jahangirabad. These areas have been hubs of the city's Muslim population for generations. Nestled near the Bhojtal, also known as Upper Lake, the streets of old Bhopal boast magnificent Mughal architecture and historic mosques, echoing the city's rich history and traditions. (Also read: From kebabs to haleem: A foodies guide to celebrating Eid in India ) Eid celebrations in Bhopal's old quarters bring together tradition and festivity, with vibrant markets, historic mosques and unique culinary experiences.(Photo by Akanksha Agnihotri)

During Eid, as you step into Chowk Bazaar, the narrow lanes teeming with crowds, the air infused with the fragrance of feni, colourful roadside stalls selling bondi, and the bustling clothes shops adorned with sparkling attires will greet you. The excited faces of people engrossed in Eid shopping amidst the market adorned with lights and Islamic flags, along with the reverberating sound of the Azaan, are sure to evoke a sense of festive spirit. Ashwaq, an auto driver who has been living in old Bhopal for the past 20 to 25 years, says that what he loves most about Eid is going to Jama Masjid and offering namaz with his friends and family, which is often not possible in their busy lives. He is happy to get a break from his mundane life and spend time with his family as he finishes his last ride of the day.

During Eid, you'll find stalls selling fenni and colourful bundis in every market.(Akanksha Agnihotri)

Located nearly 1.5 km from Chowk Bazaar is the historic Taj-ul-Masajid, the largest mosque in India and one of the largest in the world. Upon entering the mosque, one is transported back in time by the stunning Mughal architecture, featuring stone pillars, intricate jali work, and ceilings adorned with beautiful carvings, sure to evoke a sense of awe. Masod, who has been working at Taj-ul-Masajid for over three decades, says, My day feels incomplete if I miss coming to the mosque, even for a day. The serene atmosphere here calms my heart and mind.

Taj-ul-Masajid is the largest mosque in India and one of the largest in Asia's.(Akanksha Agnihotri)

Its name, 'The Crown of Mosques', is truly fitting, given the stunning architecture of pink walls and white domes that adorn this remarkable monument. The original structure of the mosque was built approximately 150 years ago, and what makes it truly unique is that it was constructed by a woman, not a man. The construction work commenced during the reign of the Mughals, initiated by Nawab Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal. It was further expanded and completed by her daughter, Sultan Jahan Begum, during her lifetime.

It features magnificent Mughal architecture with large domes and pink marble.(Akanksha Agnihotri)

Approximately 2 km from Taj-ul-Masajid lies Itwara Bazaar, filled with old shops that have been running for generations and are famous for their original taste. One such shop is Haji Hotel Lassi And Faluda, renowned worldwide for their lip-smacking offerings. The faluda served here is unlike any other; it comes in a steel glass and is topped with rose syrup, chia seeds, and creamy milk, making its fragrance all the more tempting. It is accompanied by a separate steel bowl filled with crushed ice infused with rose essence and malai.

Haji Hotel Lassi and Faluda are among the many old shops in Old Bhopal famous for their unique, traditional flavours.(Akanksha Agnihotri)

Mr. Masod, the owner of the shop, whose grandparents started the business years ago and is now being run by his grandchildren, sits at the large wooden table and observes people enjoying their lassi and faluda. He shares that during Eid times, it becomes difficult to find even one spot in his shop as crowds emerge, especially late at night.

As night falls, the markets come alive with bustling crowds.(Akanksha Agnihotri)

The markets bustle with activity during the daytime, but they truly come alive as night falls, drawing people out of their homes for a stroll along the vibrant streets with their families. Since Eid often falls in summer, it also provides relief from the heat. Mohammad Owaisi, who resides in Ashta, says, What I love most about Eid is coming to Bhopal every year for shopping. There's something special about these markets that makes the whole experience truly unique and enjoyable.

The ancient shops and nostalgic old-world charm of these narrow lanes markets are what make the Eid shopping experience in Old Bhopal truly unique.(Akanksha Agnihotri)

Visiting the old city of Bhopal during Eid imparts a sense of calmness. Amidst the ancient buildings, historic shops, and the nostalgic old-world charm of the ancient street markets, it feels like taking a leisurely walk, offering respite from the otherwise fast-paced life. To truly immerse oneself in the essence of any festival, one must step away from the comfort of air-conditioned chambers and lavish shopping malls, and instead, venture into the old markets of the city, where the true essence of festivals resides.
Vishu 2024: Every year, the Malayalam New Year is celebrated during the spring harvest festival. This is the time when multiple states of the country welcome their new year. Be it Poila Boishak in West Bengal or Puthundu in Tamil Nadu or Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, the states of the country bask in festivities to welcome a fresh year. Vishu is referred to as the Malayalam new Year and is observed in the state of Kerala during this time. The first day of Chingam is known as the start of a fresh year. However, the people of Malabar consider Vishu as the start of the astronomical new year. Vishu Kani is one of the most auspicious rituals that is observed on Vishu. It refers to the practice of sighting auspicious items at sunrise to have a fruitful and prosperous year ahead. (Unsplash)

ALSO READ: Baisakhi to Vishu: Interesting facts about spring harvest festivals celebrated in India

What is Vishu Kani

Vishu is celebrated with a lot of pomp and grandeur all over Kerala. For this year, Vishu will be observed on April 14. According to Drik Panchang, the Sankranti Moment on Vishu Kani is at 9:15 PM on April 13. Vishu Kani is one of the most auspicious rituals that is observed on Vishu. It refers to the practice of sighting auspicious items at sunrise to have a fruitful and prosperous year ahead.

Significance of Vishu Kani

A day before Vishu, the eldest member of the family gathers all the auspicious items together and arranges them in front of the statue of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Vishu Kani consists of coconut, betel nut, yellow flower, coins, currency notes, white dhoti, rice, lemon, cucumber, jackfruit, mirror, kajal and a sacred book. According to the ritual, at sunrise, the members of the family see the Vishu Kani as the first thing of the day. The ritual is believed to bring prosperity, good fortune and wealth into their lives throughout the year. Another important ritual observed on Vishu is Vishukkaineetam  the practice of gifting money to younger family members, servants and tenants by the elder members of the house.
We know health outcomes frequently differ based on race. The 'Weathering theory' could help explain why, at least in the US. Rocks, soils and minerals  the elements that make up the land we live upon  have no protection from the weather. They are struck by lightning, flooded by rains and baked by blistering sunlight. This natural process, which represents the gradual chipping away of the surface of our Earth, is called weathering. Although it is not new, the concept of weathering gained interest in 2020 after the death of George Floyd and amid a pandemic that laid bare race-based health inequities.(Christoph Soeder/dpa/picture alliance)

Over the past two decades, and particularly in the past few years, public health researchers have been using this term in a different context: to describe a process they say occurs in the bodies of Black people who grow up in white American society. The theory is gaining traction  data from 2021 found deaths due to Covid-19 were 2.8 times higher in Black/African Americans compared to whites, and studieshave linked this to weathering.

The term "weathering" was first used in the context of public health by Arline Geronimus, now a professor of Health Behavior and Health Education at the University of Michigan in the US. While facilitating research on teenage mothers in the 1990s, she came upon an unexpected finding: babies born to Black mothers in their 20s and 30s had more health complications than those born to mothers in their teens. This was the opposite of what was observed in white women, who tended to have better outcomes if they gave birth in their 20s and 30s compared to Black women.

Geronimus concluded that the health of Black women deterioriated more quickly than their white counterparts because of racism-induced stress experience in their daily lives.

'Wear and tear' on the body

Years of research appear to have given credibility to her theory. Around the same time as Geronimus's initial findings, researchers who study chronic stress introduced the concept of allostatic load, which refers to the wear and tear' to the body caused by stress.

A person's allostatic load can be quantified by measuring their levels of a series of different indicators: cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), epinephrine, norepinephrine, cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin, resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body mass index, and waist-hip ratio. A high allostatic load is linked to many health problems like migraine and heart disease.

The higher a person's score, the more likely they are to experience negative health effects. In a 2006 paper, Geronimus and her team set out to measure peoples' allostatic load scores. They found that the differences in these scores between Black and white and wealthy and poor participants started to widen in their early 20s and grew largest between the ages of 35 and 64. Blacks had higher scores across the board than white participants.

What backed up Geronimus' theory was that these differences could not be connected to poverty: Black women, regardless of income status, were most likely to have high scores, before poor white men and women and poor Black men.

The 'caps' that indicate aging

In recent years, scientists have also started measuring telomeres to better understand weathering. Telomeres are "caps" on the ends of our chromosomes that play a key role in the process of aging. They protect our chromosomes during cell division, like the plastic on the ends of a shoelace protects it from unraveling.

The more our cells divide, the shorter the telomeres become. Once the telomeres are gone, the cell division process ends and they die. Once that happens, our tissues start to age. That's why the length of our telomeres is relevant for studying aging. The longer they are, the longer it takes for us to experience the detrimental side effects of getting old.

A 2014 Harvard study found that although telomere length in young Black adults in their 20s was longer than those of their white counterparts, lengths evened out among 50-60-year-olds, indicating the Black adults were aging at a quicker rate. Among 80-year-olds, whites had longer telomeres than the Black participants.

Weathering across the globe?

Most of the research on weathering so far has been conducted in the US, meaning it's difficult to generalize the theory to other countries round the world.

But Devon Payne-Sturges, a professor at the Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, said it is likely that weathering is occurring "anywhere where you have this social hierarchy where you have a group of people who are discriminated against, put at the bottom of society, more marginalized," she said. "I'm afraid that's just about everywhere."

One thing that could be preventing the concept of weathering from study at an international level could be a lack of data on race. In the US, health data accessed by researchers includes sections that denote race. That is not the case in countries like Germany.

Although it took time  some three decades  to catch on in the US (Geronimus published a book that received widespread media attention in 2023), the concept of weathering could, with more research, help explain race-based health disparities across the globe.

That information could lead to conclusions on how to improve health in minority groups. One study is already on its way: A survey of indigenous mothers in New Zealand found that those who said they had experienced an "ethnically motivated physical attack" had children with shorter telomeres than mothers who didn't report such an attack.

The paper noted that conversely, mothers who had positive feelings about their culture gave birth to babies with "significantly longer" telomeres.
An entrepreneur recently travelled on Etihad Airways business class with his six-year-old daughter. After their flight, the airline sent his daughter a survey asking about her flight experience. The father allowed his daughter to complete the feedback form and said that it was a bloodbath. He further shared that his daughter gave the airline a rating of 1 out of 10. The founder also explained why his daughter gave Etihad Airways a poor rating after her journey. It has an Emirates connection. (X/@drdoot)

Mark Ross-Smith, the CEO of a Singapore-based company, on X shared some feedback that his daughter provided to the airline. He wrote, Flight was bad because her school friends were not on it. Kids meal was not good because it lacked chocolate. Hot towel service was not offered to kids. Biz + economy kids pack were identical. She wanted more. Videos didnt start until we took off, ie, IFE on Etihad doesnt start until airborne. No pyjamas.

He shared that the survey also included a question about the likelihood of recommending the airline to friends and family. The kid then rated the airline with a score of 1 out of 10.

Ross-Smith explained the reason behind the poor rating. He said, All because Emirates crew gave her chocolates while Etihad did not.

Take a look at the post shared by the founder dad below:

The post was shared on April 10. It has since then accumulated over 3.4 lakh views. Additionally, the post has received over 900 likes and numerous reposts. A few even flocked to the comments section of the post to share their views.

Heres how X users reacted to this post:

Never underestimate kids; they are the future customers, posted an individual.

Another added, Every point is valid. Ive been answering these surveys since they launched many, many years ago, but Ive never seen anything change. Why does the IFE start so late?

Milk chocolate is pretty serious stuff, expressed a third.

A fourth commented, Kids speak the truth. That truth is brutal sometimes.
A father took to X to share his sons preschool fee structure, which has sparked a conversation about the rising cost of education. In his post, the Delhi-based CA explained that he paid 4.3 lakh for the academic year 2024-25. A Delhi CA shared this image that shows his son's preschool fee structure. (X/@AkashTrader)

My son's playschool fee is more than my entire education expense. I hope vo ache se khelna seekhle yaha (I hope he learns how to play while here)! X user Akash Kumar wrote.

Take a look at the entire post:

The viral post was shared earlier today. Since then, it has collected more than 7.5 lakh views. The share has further accumulated close to 7,800 likes. People posted varied comments while reacting to the share. While some shared similar stories, others argued that the X user was showing off by sharing the fee structure.

What did X users say about this post on fee structure?

Nobody is forcing you to send your kid to that school. You are foolish if you're spending that much on a play school and again doing show-offs here. The motive of this post is to show off and get views. Otherwise, one can easily get a good play school at moderate fees, argued an X user.

OMG! Education is really expensive now, added another.

Many multinational companies are paying less than this as annual salary to freshers. I want AI to disrupt this industry, expressed a third.

It's more than a fresher's CTC in IT, joined a fourth.

Must be a high-end full-time play school in a posh locality in one of the top metros! Air-conditioned rooms and playground, food, creche till parents come to pick up, tweeted a fifth.

Recently, I discussed this trend with a friend who owns a high-end school with luxurious amenities. I asked if he really thinks fancy buildings or facilities are needed for children's education. He explained that it wasn't really a matter of our preference but rather that of the parents. Parents often ask why their school lacks amenities offered elsewhere (other expensive schools). This pressure creates a constant need to upgrade and stay competitive. However, he emphasised that for the best education, what truly matters is having the best teachers, not lavish infrastructure, wrote a sixth.
A doctor took to X to shed light on the challenges faced by medical students at AIIMS Madurai. In his poignant account, Dr Dhruv Chauhan expressed that the reputation of AIIMS doesnt match the current reality of the institution. He further added that condition of the students is the result of opening so many medical colleges without any basic facilities. Dr Dhruv Chauhan expressed that the reputation that AIIMS built over the years doesnt match the current reality of the institution. The image shows an empty ward (centre) and library with no books except for the first year students (right) at AIIMS Madurai. (X/@DrDhruvchauhan)

AIIMS, the institution name, sounds like a big thing, no? But not anymore! wrote Chauhan on X.

He also claimed that the medical students went to their director with a request to shift them.

Chauhan further shared the alleged conditions of the students at AIIMS Madurai. According to the post, the wards lack patients for clinical examination, students are not permitted to visit the OPD and OT, five students are forced to share a single room, and there is a crunch of books in the library.

When the students complained to the administration, they were asked why they joined AIIMS Madurai in the first place.

Take a look at the post shared by the doctor below:

Empty wards in a top institution like AIIMS Madurai. What kind of doctors do you expect will come without patient interaction? he wrote while sharing a video of an empty ward.

He also shared a video showing the condition of the library in the institution with the caption, AIIMS Madurai Library, even local street libraries have more books than this. Here, they dont have anything for 2nd and 3rd year MBBS students!

The posts, since being shared on April 11, have garnered numerous views and still counting. Many even took to the comments section of the posts to share their thoughts.

Also Read| Medical colleges instructed not to force PG students to live in hostels

Check out how people reacted to this post here:

I joined AIIMS Delhi for my residency, and I confess it does give a boost in my interview and bio, including my X (formerly Twitter) bio. I actually did a walk the talk interview after securing the residency for a news portal. Then, after joining, I realised it was just another medical college with a name tag. Now I realise your success as a doctor depends on street smartness rather than where you have passed out from, expressed an individual.

Another added, This is terrible! Sad state of affairs!



This isnt the story of just AIIMS Madurai, but every new medical college in India. Faculty crunch (Even reputed colleges have a crunch). Lack of Infrastructure. Lack of Equipment. Non-functional IPDs. This is what happens when quantity is prioritized over quality, wrote a third.
A first-year student at IIT Bombay shared their experience at the prestigious college on Reddit, stating that it has not been great so far. The Redditor expressed their dissatisfaction with the teaching methods, claiming that professors finish one chapter in a single lecture and that the grading system is flawed. The student also opened up about feeling lost and lacking enthusiasm. The first-year student at IIT Bombay expressed dissatisfaction with the teaching methods, claiming that professors finish one chapter in a single lecture. (HT Photo)

The grading system here is so heavily dependent on the subjectivity of the TAs (Teaching Assistants) that it defeats the whole purpose of education, wrote the IIT student, who goes by dengo302005 on Reddit.

The Redditor added, I remember submitting my assignment for a design course and being allotted the lowest grade possible in my group, whereas my friend (in another group) who had submitted the exact same assignment got the highest possible grade.

The IIT Bombay undergrad went on to express that many people believe that IIT is the golden gateway to supreme education but the reality is quite different. The Reddit user added, I feel lost and do not have the enthusiasm left. Its a very sinking feeling and the college feels like a school more than a school. Honestly, I just dont know what will make of me in these four years (it feels like a lot of stress, or maybe I am just exaggerating things a little bit). I just want to get my degree as soon as possible and be out of this situation I am in.

Take a look at the entire post shared by the first-year IIT Bombay student here:

The post was shared a few days ago on Reddit. It has since then accumulated a plethora of upvotes and numerous comments.

Check out a few of them here:

I am doing civil in an old IIT and I feel the same, I dont even remember why I used to study during jee times. Idk who it was that I wanted to prove my worth. Everything feels very useless all of a sudden idk why... and what should I do about it? posted a Reddit user.

Another added, I guess its the community of students which makes an IIT so sought after. Nevertheless, I get why youre feeling the way you do, I was in the same boat but was from a tier 2 college.

As a TA, Ill tell you just show some effort in your assignments; theyll give you better grades. I have seen people not even doing the bare minimum. I know its not your fault, but be selfish and write your assignments without copying. Good luck, expressed a third.

A fourth added, I am from one of the old five IITs. I will tell you this: Grades matter most to those who may want to pursue higher education, as US professors do care about your CGPA. If you are not inclined to higher studies, then do the bare minimum to keep your CG above 7.5, and you should be fine for placements. Not a single company cares about your grades in college. Chill.

Been through this phase in college. The best way is to befriend college alumni, suggested a fifth.

A sixth chimed in, This is so relatable.
A horse was spotted trotting inside a train station in Australia's Sydney as it was raining heavily. CCTV footage from Warwick Farm Station captured the unexpected moment when the horse seeking refuge from a downpour came into the station and then exited afterwards. A horse was seen trotting inside a train station in Sydney.(X/ Mr Pal Christiansen)

Sharing the video of the incident on social media platform X, a user wrote, The weathers been awful here, its rained all day long a horse decided to hoof the train home from Warwick Farm Station to avoid getting wet after a day out in the city

Reacting to the video of the horse trotting inside the train station, Chris Minns, premier of Australias New South Wales state, wrote, Wet tracker. Didn't realise I needed to say but - horses aren't allowed on our trains, sorry folks I can confirm the horse has returned home, safe and sound.

While not much is known about the horse, whats clear is that it was preparing to stirrup trouble, Transport for New South Wales, which oversees transport systems in the state, said in a press release.

Meanwhile, commenting on the incident, transport minister Jo Haylen said An unexpected visitor went to Warwick Farm station. Im just glad he kept his hooves behind the yellow line!

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, it was later revealed that the horse had broken free from Annabel Neasham Racing's stables, situated near Warwick Farm Station.

Meanwhile, in an unrelated incident, an UberEats rider was spotted delivering meals on a horse in Sydney. The delivery person was riding a horse through the streets of Paddington, in Sydneys eastern suburbs.

Speaking about the incident, an Uber spokesperson said, Theres no horsing around when it comes to safety on our platformWe hold em to a higher safety standard here, so well continue to investigate this matter.

The delivery person was later banned from the platform.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his Eid-ul-Fitr message, compared the Kashmir issue with that of Palestine as he claimed they are facing atrocities of the occupation forces. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifs government is set to be dissolved later this month to pave the way for holding a general election in Pakistan (via REUTERS)

While India is yet to issue an official statement on Pakistan prime minister's recent remarks, it has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir, including areas under Pakistan's control, is an integral part of India and has outrightly rejected allegations of atrocities.

ALSO READ- PoK an integral part of India, every Indians goal to get it back': Amit Shah

The story will be updated with India's statement.

Shehbaz Sharif's Kashmir harp

After extending Eid ul-Fitr wishes, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has recently been sworn in for the second time after a controversial election, compared Kashmir with Palestine, which is embroiled in the Israel-Hamas war.

I also urge Muslims around the world to remember their Palestinian and Kashmiri brothers and sisters who are facing the worst kind of atrocities of the occupation forces and they will be constrained to enjoy the joys of Eid. We all pray to Almighty Allah to ease their difficulties, Pakistan PM Sharif wrote in an X post on Wednesday.

May this blessed time bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to the people of our nation, the region, and the world, he added.

ALSO READ- People of PoK feel development only possible at hands of PM Modi: Rajnath Singh

Saudi Arabia-Pakistan's joint statement on Kashmir

Recently, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif was in Riyadh to meet Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, where they discussed the Kashmir issue.

The joint statement read: "The two sides stressed the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, (especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute) to ensure peace and stability in the region."

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed regional and global developments of mutual interest, including the concerning situation in Gaza, the statement said.

READ HERE- Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif meets Saudi crown prince, discusses Kashmir issue

PoK is and will always be our: Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh

Recently, speaking at an election rally, Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh asserted India's claim on PoK. The people in PoK might say they want to be with India. PoK was, is and will always be our (India) part, he said on Thursday.

READ HERE- People of PoK feel development only possible at hands of PM Modi: Rajnath Singh

In another interview, Singh, accusing Pakistan of harbouring terrorists, warned Islamabad of consequences if it tries to destabilise India. He said, Pakistan should stop the terrorism and if it feels incapable, India is ready to cooperate to stop terrorism.
Israel is bracing for a direct and unprecedented attack by Iran on government targets as soon as Saturday, according to people familiar with western intelligence assessments, a move that has the potential to trigger an all-out regional war. Smoke rises after what the Iranian media said was an Israeli strike on a buidling close to the Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria on April 1 (REUTERS)

Also Read: Israel on edge for Iranian retaliation after official killed in embassy attack

An assault from Iranian soil has emerged as one of the main scenarios expected by the Jewish state and its allies, said the people, who asked not to be identified as they arent authorized to discuss the matter publicly. A bombardment with drones and precision missiles could come within the next 48 hours, they said.

Oil jumped to the highest level since October on the news, rallying as much as 2.6% to top $92 a barrel. Futures have surged 19% this year with the war adding risk premium to the market.

The US is preparing defenses and moved additional military assets to the region, while intensifying diplomatic efforts to rein in hostilities, the people said. The attack still hasnt been approved by Tehrans highest-ranking officials, they said.

An Iranian missile and drone barrage would represent a retaliation for a deadly strike on its diplomatic compound in Syria last week, which the Islamic Republic blames on Israel. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has repeatedly said Israel will be punished for the assault, though stopped short of saying what form such a counter move would take.

One of the people said its possible that the increasingly inflammatory rhetoric between Israel, Iran, and the US could be grandstanding, but said the working assumption for Israel and allies is that an attack is imminent. Diplomatic back-channels are in overdrive, the people said.

US officials including Jake Sullivan and Brett McGurk have been working to send messages to Iran, including through an established Swiss channel, one of the people said, while talking to Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other governments.

White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday the US has warned Iran not to use Israels attack on Syria as a pretext to escalate hostilities further.

Weve seen the threats coming from Iran and so we have made ourselves very clear where we stand in supporting Israels security, she said. That is ironclad.

Any Iranian attack on Israel would likely be a combination of missiles and drones, based on current capabilities outlined in a new Defense Intelligence Agency Worldwide Threat assessment released late Thursday.

The regime has a substantial inventory of ballistic and cruise missiles capable of striking targets as far as 2,000 kilometers from its borders, the agency said.

Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday the US and allies were expecting a major escalation of hostilities, with targeted attacks on Israeli government and military sites. The Jewish State hasnt claimed or denied responsibility for the Damascus attack, in keeping with a decades-long policy of ambiguity on operations in Syria, Lebanon and elsewhere.

A direct Israel-Iran conflict would significantly rachet up hostilities in the Middle East, where tensions have been rising since Israel began its war against Hamas in Gaza in October, after the Iran-backed militant group invaded the country and killed about 1,200 people. Hamas is designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union.

Other members of the Islamic Republics so-called Axis of Resistance, chiefly Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Yemen-based Houthis, have stepped up their aggression in recent months.

The escalating hostilities have drawn direct intervention from senior diplomats. UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron warned Iran Thursday that an attack would escalate and drag in a wider array of actors.

Western officials said intelligence showed Iran is preparing an attack on Israel any day after Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim holiday celebrated on April 10, adding the next 48 hours were critical to see if the message to diffuse tensions had successfully reached Tehran.
The Port of Oakland Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Thursday afternoon to approve a plan to rename Oakland International Airport as San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Oaklands airport would rename itself San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport under a plan given initial approval Thursday by port commissioners, setting up a confrontation with officials in San Francisco who say the change will confuse air travelers and divert traffic from their facility.

The vote came after weeks of controversy over the potential name change. San Francisco officials have said travelers bound for their citys airport may unintentionally fly to Oakland if its name starts with San Francisco.

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San Francisco has pledged to sue Oakland if it goes through with the name change. And the citys Board of Supervisors has condemned the name change, as have supervisors in San Mateo County, where the San Francisco airport is located.

We are disappointed that Oakland did not take the opportunity to work collaboratively with us to develop alternative names and to avoid litigation, said San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu. We will have further updates in the coming days.



Before the Oakland Port Commissions vote on Thursday, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution supporting the name change, and defending the use of the term to describe the East Bay airport.

The term San Francisco Bay Area is commonly known in California as the 9-county region of California surrounding and including the San Francisco Bay, the proclamation said.

Oakland officials are hoping to generate more traffic for the airport by making travelers headed to San Francisco and the greater Bay Area more aware of its location. While passenger traffic at the Oakland airport has bounced up from the lows of the pandemic, it has not yet matched pre-pandemic levels, according to monthly statistics.

Although passenger traffic at the Oakland airport has bounced up from the lows of the pandemic, it has not yet matched pre-2020 levels. Oakland has also proposed an ambitious update and expansion of the airport. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

The port proposed an ambitious update and expansion of the airport last year that would see two terminals renovated and up to 16 additional gates added to meet increasing air travel demand, it said.

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David Foecke, a member of the Stop OAK Expansion Coalition  which has been fighting the update on a slate of climate change and environmental issues  Foecke said he believes the name change is being used to justify the expansion. He noted that the port commission has been forecasting the number of arriving passengers to double, approximately, compared with 2019 levels, by 2038.

Foecke pointed to data showing that passenger travel has actually been declining at the airport recently. The number of passengers coming through the airport fell by more than 230,000 to 11.27 million total in 12 months through the end of February 2024, compared with 11.5 million in the same time period a year before. A 2023 report from the port notes that business travel between Northern California and Southern California, a primary driver of traffic at the Oakland airport, has not rebounded the way leisure travel has at the airport.

Theyre faced with the reality that theyre planning an expansion based on market demands that are not materializing, Foecke, an Oakland resident, said. So they have to find another reason to justify their expansion. Their idea about how to justify an expansion that is not the result of their own market demands is to steal passengers from San Francisco.

The coalition says that 11% of the Bay Areas carbon emissions come from passenger air travel, and that aviation and the intricacies of flight paths expose poorer communities, like East Oakland around the airport, to higher levels of pollutants.

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Israel's foreign ministry criticised Ireland's new prime minister, Simon Harris, for not mentioning the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza during his speech to the Irish parliament, as reported by the news agency AFP. Memorabilia and photographs featuring the hostages kidnapped in the deadly October 7 attack on Israel by the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas from Gaza, are seen at Dizengoff Square as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, in Tel Aviv, Israel, April 11, 2024.(Reuters)

According to a statement from the Israel foreign ministry, Harris, who took office on Tuesday, failed to acknowledge the "133 Israeli hostages who have been trapped in Hamas tunnels for the past six months."

"After the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust... there are those in Ireland who persist on being on the wrong side of history," the statement added.

Israel is also angered by Ireland's intention to recognise a Palestinian state and to involve itself in the genocide case initiated by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

The statement further said that Ireland's actions would endorse terrorism by supporting South Africa, which it referred to as the legal arm of the Hamas terrorist organisation, and potentially recognising a Palestinian state in the future.

What did the Irish PM say?

Harris, 37, the youngest-ever premier of Ireland, addressed the Irish parliament on Tuesday, saying that innocent children, women, and men are being starved and slaughtered in Gaza.

"We have not been silent on the unforgivable terrorist actions of Hamas on October 7, nor can we be silent on the disproportionate reaction of the Israeli government," said the leader of the centre-right Fine Gael party.

In a statement on March 27 announcing its intention to intervene at the International Court of Justice, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs mentioned "taking of hostages" as one of the violations of international humanitarian law that have taken place in Israel and Gaza since October 7.

In a joint statement with Spain on March 22, the leaders of Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia conveyed their readiness to recognise Palestine when the circumstances are right.

Israel-Hamas conflict

The conflict in Gaza began on October 7 when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,170 people, predominantly civilians, according to Israeli sources.

Israel's retaliatory campaign has led to the deaths of approximately 33,482 people in Gaza to date, primarily women and children, as reported by the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory.

Additionally, Palestinian militants seized around 250 hostages, with Israel asserting that 129 remain in Gaza, including 34 reportedly deceased, while four Israelis were held captive there prior to the conflict, according to Israel.

(With AFP inputs)
Norway is ready to recognise a Palestinian state together with other countries, its prime minister said on Friday while hosting Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez, who is seeking support for the cause. HT Image

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store told reporters that such a decision would need to be taken in close coordination with "like-minded countries".

"Norway stands ready to recognise the state of Palestine," Store told a joint press conference with Sanchez.

"We have not set a firm timetable," Store added.

In November, Norway's parliament adopted a government proposal for the country to be prepared to recognise an independent Palestinian state.

Norway also hosted Israeli-Palestinian peace talks at the beginning of the 1990s, which led to the Oslo Accords.

Sanchez is currently on a tour of Poland, Norway and Ireland this week to drum up support for the recognition of a Palestinian state, according to a Spanish government spokesperson.

Speaking alongside Store, Sanchez said Spain was "committed to recognising Palestine as a state, as soon as possible, when the conditions are appropriate, and in a way that can have the most positive impact to the peace process."

On March 22, Spain issued a statement with Ireland, Malta and Slovenia on the sidelines of an EU leaders summit, saying they were "ready to recognise Palestine" in a move that would happen when "the circumstances are right".

Last week, Sanchez told reporters travelling with him on his Middle East tour that he hoped it would happen by the end of June.

Store on Friday said that he welcomed Sanchez's initiative to consult among countries to "strengthen coordination".

"We will intensify that coordination in the weeks to come," Store said.

The Spanish leader has repeatedly angered Israel with his outspoken comments since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas.

The war in the Gaza Strip erupted after Hamas's unprecedented attack on southern Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 33,634 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

ef/jll/bc

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COPENHAGEN, Denmark  Norways health minister resigned Friday, the second Norwegian government member to step down this year amid allegations they plagiarized academic works. HT Image

Ingvild Kjerkol resigned a day after a probe by Nord University in Bodoe in northern Norway, where Kjerkol, handed in her master thesis in 2021, concluded that there is a not insignificant amount of plagiarism in her masters thesis."

We have come to the conclusion that Ingvild should resign as minister, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre told a press conference. He said the probe had concluded the plagiarism was intentional.

Kjerkoll said she and a co-author did not intend to plagiarize other peoples assignments.

Although it hurts not to be believed, we have to deal with the fact that is of a different opinion, she said at a joint press conference with Gahr Stre.

The 48-year-old Kjerkol has been in office since October 2021 when Gahr Stre presented a coalition government of his own Labor party and the junior Center Party.

Kjerkol is the second government member to be entangled in academic plagiarism allegations this year.

In January, Sandra Borch stepped down as minister for research and higher education after a student discovered that parts of Borchs masters thesis, including spelling mistakes, were copied without attribution from a different author.

Gahr Stres coalition has seen the departure of several ministers in recent months over other wrongdoings. In September, it was revealed that the husband of then Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt had been trading in stocks for years behind her back and that could potentially enrich her.

In September, the ruling social democratic Labor party was defeated in local elections by the conservative Hoeyre, the main opposition party, for the first time since 1924. The party, which for decades was Norways largest party in local elections, came in second in the Sept. 11 elections for local councils in Norways 356 municipalities and 11 counties.

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An Indian-origin ex-manager of a Post Office in the UK, has rejected her former boss's apology, pointing to how she had been pregnant for two months when wrongly imprisoned more than 12 years ago after being convicted for a theft. Seema Misra (Image courtesy: @SeemaMisra7/X)

I was eight weeks pregnant. They need to apologise to my youngest son. I have not accepted the apologies, Seema Misra, now 47, told BBC.

She was referring to her ex-boss David Smith saying sorry in writing for sending a congratulatory email after the former's conviction. The apology by Smith, now a former Managing Director at the Post Office, came during Thursday's hearings for the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry, held in London.

We had my conviction overturned, nobody came at the time to apologise. And now they just suddenly realised, that when they have to appear in a public inquiry, they have to apologise, Misra said to BBC.

Misra also responded to Smith's assertion that she was a test case for the faulty Horizon IT system and the success of her case led to more confidence in the system.

How can they do a test on a human being? I am a living creature. I heard that my case had been used as a test case before, but hearing it again and against, it is just annoying. It makes me more and more angry, to be honest, she remarked.

Her conviction for stealing GBP 75,000 for her Post Office branch in Surrey where she was a sub-postmistress, was quashed in April 2021. The Court of Appeal ruled that she was wrongly jailed.

By then, however, Misra had already spent four-and-a-half months at south-east England's female-only Bronzefield prison, the largest such facility in Europe. There, she gave birth to her second son while waring an electronic tag.

In March this year, a new law tabled in British Parliament introduced the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill to quash convictions brought about by the erroneous Horizon evidence. The ongoing public inquiry in the case, being conducted in a phased manner, is expected to conclude in July.

Also Read: UK PM Rishi Sunak pledges action over Post Office scandal impacting many British Indians

Developed by Japan's Fujitsu, the Horizon system was first rolled out in 1999 to some Post Offices for variable tasks such as accounting and stocktaking. However, it appeared to have significant bugs, which could cause the system to misreport, sometimes involving large sums as in the case of these sub-postmasters.

(With PTI inputs)
MAE SOT, Thailand  Thailands foreign minister on Friday said he urged Myanmars military authorities not to violently respond to its armys loss of an important border trading town to its opponents, and that so far they seemed to be exercising restraint. HT Image

Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara spoke during a visit to Mae Sot, which lies directly across a river from Myanmars Myawaddy, where army troops abandoned their last defensive position early Thursday.

Their hasty escape ceded virtual control of the busy trading town to guerrillas of the ethnic Karen National Union and its allies, including members of the pro-democracy Peoples Defense Forces.

Myanmars once-mighty armed forces have suffered a series of unprecedented defeats since last October, losing swathes of territory including border posts to both ethnic fighters and guerrilla units. Civilians took up arms after the generals seized power in 2021 from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The military has frequently hit back heavily, using air power.

Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, spokesman for Myanmar's military government, told the BBCs Burmese language service Thursday night that the soldiers at the armys last base outside Myawaddy town abandoned the post for the safety of their families who were living with them. He said Myanmar was in talks with Thailand about getting them safely back, and acknowledged that Karen guerrillas were inside the town.

There is concern that the Myanmar military might launch a concerted counter- attack against Myawaddy, which could send thousands fleeing into Thailand for safety and badly disrupt border trade.

Speaking to reporters after inspecting the area, Foreign Minister Parnpree said Thailand had already spoken with Myanmars military and told them they did not wish to see violence, offering Thailands help.

Now, what we are most concerned about is that we want to see peace in Myawaddy, not only because of the trading, but its our neighbor, he said. We do not wish for any violence to happen. If talks are possible, among their groups, we will be very welcoming of that, and if they want us to be the mediator, we are ready to help coordinating.

He said he hoped there could be talks between the opposing sides to prevent retaliatory attacks.

We have already sent people to talk to them. And for the situation today, they already said that there will not yet be any violent retaliation. If they wanted to be violent, they would have already done that days ago."

On Friday evening, however, there were at least two loud explosions emanating from the area on the Myanmar side of one of the two bridges connecting Myawaddy and Mae Sot. Their cause could not immediately be discovered.

Residents from both sides of the river said earlier there have been frequent explosions in the past few days from airstrikes against captured positions outside Myawaddy town, but that Friday was quiet. Thai immigration officials said visitor numbers from Myanmar were unexceptional.

But for some, the quiet was the problem. A Myawaddy resident who only gave his name as Sulai told The Associated Press it unnerved him so he fled.

They fear the quiet. They are afraid of silence with no sound of fighting. Those with experience say it means the fight is much more likely to continue," he said.

Thai troops were keeping watch in Mae Sot on Friday, especially near the bridges. Besides reassuring residents of their safety, they served to block pockets of trapped Myanmar soldiers from slipping across the border.

On the Myanmar side, a small group of men lounged in the stifling heat. Thai troops said they were from the Border Guard Force, a Karen group that was aligned with Myanmars military who recently severed their links.

The Karen National Union  the leading political body for the Karen ethnic minority  said in a statement on its Facebook page on Friday that it will establish administrative mechanisms, prevent illicit businesses, contraband and human trafficking and implement stability and law enforcement as well as facilitate trade in the Myawaddy area when it secures its position there.

The KNU said it's deeply concerned about the security of the people living on both sides of the border, seeks to have stability and access to humanitarian aid and is working to achieve meaningful cooperation with the Thai government and local and international partner organizations.

The Karen, who are native to the eastern state of Kayin, have been fighting for more than seven decades for greater autonomy from Myanmars central government. A wider struggle including other ethnic minority groups and pro-democracy militants began after the armys 2021 takeover.

The Karen make up a large part of about 90,000 refugees from Myanmar who live in nine long-term refugee camps in Thailand after fleeing previous rounds of fighting.

The army's setbacks of the past few months have been noted by Myanmar's neighbors, who have generally been wary of intervening in the crisis there, said Moe Thuzar, a Myanmar scholar who is a senior fellow at Singapores ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.

Already, we have heard the Thai prime minister acknowledge that the Myanmar military is losing strength. How will the various opposition forces coordinate and consolidate these gains towards the resistances stated objectives for the countrys political future, is yet unclear, she told The Associated Press in an email. Unclear too, is how neighboring capitals will react or respond to the implications of the change in tax and administrative control of these border crossings.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Members of the UN Security Council failed to reach a consensus Thursday on a bid by Palestinians for full UN membership, meaning the longshot effort is now likely headed for a more formal council vote. Members of the UN Security Council failed to reach a consensus Thursday on a bid by Palestinians for full UN membership, meaning the longshot effort is now likely headed for a more formal council vote.(AFP)

The Palestinians, who have had observer status at the world body since 2012, have lobbied for years to gain full membership, which would amount to recognition of Palestinian statehood.

Any request to become a UN member state must first pass through the Security Council -- where Israel's ally the United States wields a veto -- and then be endorsed by the General Assembly.

In light of Israel's offensive in Gaza, Palestinians revived a 2011 UN membership application last week, prompting the Security Council to launch a formal review process. This included the ad hoc committee that failed to reach consensus Thursday and was composed of the council's member states.

ALSO READ| Israel to open new north Gaza crossing for overseas aid

During its closed-door meeting "there was no consensus," said Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the council's rotating presidency for April.

However, two-thirds of the members were in favor of full membership, she said, without specifying which countries.

While the ad hoc committee can only move forward by consensus -- loosely speaking, when everyone is in agreement -- any Security Council member may now put forth a resolution for vote on the matter.

According to diplomatic sources, a vote could be held April 18, brought forth by Algeria which represents Arab nations on the Council.

Even if the matter were to receive the necessary nine of 15 votes, observers predict a veto from the United States.

Washington maintains the United Nations is not the place for hashing out Palestinian statehood, which it stresses should be the result of an agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.

"All we ask for is to take our rightful place among the community of nations," Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour told reporters earlier this week.

The Gaza war began after Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack against Israel left 1,170 people dead, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 33,545 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.
In the last 24 hours, United States secretary of state Antony Blinken has spoken with his Turkish, Chinese, and Saudi counterparts, emphasising that escalation in the Middle East is not in anyone's interest. This comes amid speculation of Iran's retaliation to the alleged Israeli strike on its embassy in Syria. US secretary of state Antony Blinken.(via REUTERS)

ALSO READ- Iran tells US to step aside as it readies response to Israel's consulate attack

Why there is a risk of Iran's strike on Israel?

Iran blames Israel for the April 1 strike on its consulate in Damascus, which killed senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The Iranian government has since vowed a strong response.

World leaders rush to de-escalate Iran-Israel tension

 British foreign secretary David Cameron warned Iran against escalating tensions in the Middle East, urging to avoid wider conflict.

"Today I made clear to Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian that Iran must not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict. I am deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence. Iran should instead work to de-escalate and prevent further attacks," the British Foreign Minister posted from his X handle.

ALSO READ- Top US general meets IDF leadership amid escalation in Israel-Iran tensions

 US president Joe Biden reaffirmed steadfast support for Israel's security amid Iranian threat.

"As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again: ironclad. We're going to do all we can to protect Israel's security," Biden said at a White House press conference alongside visiting Japanese prime minister Kishida Fumio on Wednesday.

ALSO READ- Amid Gaza war, over 6,000 Indian workers to depart for Israel by May

 Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant asserted a firm response to potential Iranian attacks as he discussed preparedness with US defence secretary Lloyd Austin.

(Inputs from ANI)
Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton recently attended the White House state dinner for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife, Yuko Kishida. Hillary Clinton returned to her college to accept the honor of having a college building name after her. On campus, demonstrators gathered to intimidate attendees of the women-led democracy event that included Clinton, Fox News reported. (AP)

The former US state secretary wore a flowing purple and pink caftan with gold details, accessorised with delicate jewellery. This wasnt the first time the former first lady was seen wearing a caftan. She previously wore one to the 2022 Venice Film Festival.

Taking to Instagram, Hillary wrote, Bill and I were thrilled to join President Biden and the First Lady in welcoming Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Mrs. Yuko Kishida, and other allies and friends last night at the administrations state dinner for Japan. Cherry blossoms everywhere!

Dr. Jill Biden, the present first lady, sported a glittering Oscar de la Renta gown from the fall 2024 collection, featuring a sapphire ombre art nouveau crystal-embroidered dress with a cascading purple hue on the bodice.

What did the other leading ladies wear?

The colour scheme of Hillarys caftan matched that of Dr. Biden's gown, as well as the purple gown worn by Yuko Kishida, the wife of the Japanese Prime Minister.

Lauren Sanchez's burgundy Rasario gown from the 2024 resort collection, which combined two types of lace with lightweight satin to create a sculpted figure with corset inserts, was one of the evening's other standout fashion moments.

Also Read: Biden hosts Japanese PM at White House, guest list included Clintons, Tim Cook, Bezos among others

President Joe Biden and Jill have hosted five state dinners at the White House since he took office in January 2021. High-profile attendees included Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Robert De Niro, Tiffany Chen, and Paul Simon, among others.

More than 200 guests with ties to both countries enjoyed a first course of house-cured salmon and an entree of dry-aged rib eye steak with pepper butter, fava beans, mushrooms, and onions. Dessert included salted caramel pistachio cake with matcha ganache and cherry ice cream.

Netizens showers compliments on Hillary

Netizens took to X (formerly Twitter) to compliment the former first lady and her radiant look, with one user saying, She looks happy and radiant. Another added, She is beautiful as is her dress. Love it

The stream of compliments were overflowing, with one more follower commenting, Such a beauty.

Also Read: Dont doubt yourself, the world needs you: Japans PM makes a plea to America

There were compliments for the couple as well as for the caftan: They look great--that caftan is wonderful!

One user very passionately commented, Beautiful moo moo.
Apple has found itself entangled in a controversy around antisemitism after iPhone users noticed that an emoji of the Palestinian flag gets displayed on the keyboard when they type the word 'Jerusalem'. However, the tech behemoth claimed that it was a result of a bug that will be addressed in the upcoming iOS software upgrade. Apple is now facing accusations of antisemitism with British TV presenter Rachel Riley, a staunch supporter of Israel, blasting the American tech giant for "showing double standards".(Social Media)

After millions of customers received an upgrade to their mobile operating system, Apple was accused of "showing double standards" towards Israel.

Generally, when iPhone users enter the name of a country, an emoji flag representing that nation appears. However, this feature does not apply to city names as no flag appears when a user types in New York or Tokyo, no flag appears.

Also Read: Apple, Disney pause ads on X, White House reacts after antisemitic Elon Musk post amid Israel-Hamas war

Apple accused of antisemitism: Understanding the context and controversy

The status of Jerusalem remains highly controversial as both Israel and Palestine claim its as their capital.

However, Israel has frequently been accused of exercising significant influence and utilising violence in the region in a bid to seize control. Notably, the city is divided between Israel and Palestine with Israel holding the western portion of the region and the UN recognising the eastern part as Palestinian territory.

Former US President Donald Trump faced intense backlash when he declared Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017, escalating the ongoing tensions in the region. The international community and Palestinian leaders denounced his move, calling it "deplorable and unacceptable measures (that) deliberately undermine all peace efforts."

The status of Jerusalem remains highly controversial as both Israel and Palestine claim its as their capital.(AFP)

Apple is now facing accusations of antisemitism with British TV presenter Rachel Riley, a staunch supporter of Israel, blasting the American tech giant.

In a post on X on Thursday, she highlighted the anomaly and noted that other capital cities usually do not trigger flag suggestions.

"Showing double standards with respect to Israel is a form of antisemitism, which is itself a form of racism against Jewish people," she complains. Riley further called on Apple Support and CEO Tim Cook to explain whether this is an intentional act by your company or whether you have no control over rogue programmers.

"In my opinion a multinational company like Apple would not want to admit publicly that this was an intentional act," Riley wrote, adding that she hopes "those responsible will no longer be working for the company".

She signed her post as a Jewish woman concerned about the global rise in antisemitism.

Also Read: Brooklyn synagogue tunnel: Jewish man regrets his viral video thread fuelled 'antisemitic propaganda'

Social media reacts as Apple stokes Palestinian flag emoji controversy

Reacting to the blunder, one X user slammed Apple, stating that your ethics need a bug update.

Disgusting. Can you imagine? I mean its almost like saying Israelis dont exist, thus denying them their identity in a shameful attempt to discredit and dehumanise them. Thankfully, during this terrible massacre, we are dealing with important stuff. Your ethics need a bug update, he wrote.

This was definitely not a bug, this was an intentional act and the culprit should be fired, a second user wrote.

This was definitely done deliberately but they will never admit it, a third user said.

While few users call the move a disappointment, others said it is too coincidental to be a bug.

Meanwhile, in an interview with The Telegraph, a researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggested that the problem could have been the result of "human intervention".

"There is nothing inherently wrong with associating Jerusalem with Palestinian belief, but Apple's choice of default settings warrants justification, especially considering the potential discriminatory implications of this decision," Tom Divon stated.

In retaliation for Hamas' cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, Israel declared war on Gaza. According to Israeli officials, Hamas killed 1,200 people and took nearly 250 people hostage.

Gaza's Health Ministry reported that over 33,000 Palestinians, including children and women, have been killed so far in the conflict.
As the US remains on high alert in response to the Israeli attack on Iranian consulate Syria, President Joe Biden stated on Friday that he was expecting Tehran to attack Israel sooner than later." However, he warned the Islamic state against attacking, stressing that the United States will defend Israel. Speaking to reporters on Friday, the 81-year-old commander in chief said: "We are devoted to the defense of Israel, we will support Israel, we will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed."(REUTERS)

Speaking to reporters on Friday, the 81-year-old commander in chief said: "We are devoted to the defense of Israel, we will support Israel, we will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed."

Responding to a question how imminent an attack by Iran on Israel may be, the US President stated: "I don't want to get into secure information but my expectation is sooner than later."

When a reporter asked Biden about his message for Iran amid fears of possible strike, Biden asserted, Don't.

Also Read: US weighs impending Iran Missile Strike on Israel; Biden's commitment to security iron clad

Gulf states warn US ahead of the potential Iran attack

Gulf nations are pressing the United States not to respond to any possible Iranian attack on Israel by using US military basis located on their soil.

An anonymous senior US official told that the US's Gulf allies are working non-stop to close all the doors that would connect them to a US retaliation against Tehran or its proxies operating out of bases within their kingdom.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait have expressed concerns regarding the minute details of the basing deals that allow tens of thousands of US soldiers to be deployed throughout the oil-rich peninsula.

They are also taking action to stop US jets from crossing their airspace.

Also Read: Biden talks tough on Netanyahu's approach in Gaza: What hes doing is a mistake

The United States has invested decades of funding in setting up its military bases in Gulf countries. According to the US officials who spoke with MEE, such airbases would provide the most feasible launchpads to the United States against Iran due to their close proximity to the Islamic state.

However, the Gulf nations' plans are making it more difficult for the Biden administration to prepare against potential Iranian strikes on Israel.

Stressing that the strike is "imminent", a senior US official said, it is going to be a "mess".

Earlier, Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and assured him that Washington's commitment to Tehran's security was ironclad.
Chef de cuisine Nathan Matkowsky at Lord Stanley, a San Francisco bistro open late. Manuel Orbegozo/Special to The Chronicle The kitchen at Lazy Bear in San Francisco in 2020, where chef-owner David Barzelay has offered kitchen tours as a means of freeing up tables. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle

Its the end of the week, and you want to celebrate at that new spot you've been hearing about. The meal is great, fantastic even. Perhaps you pay and head home  its getting kind of late. But maybe you stick around and order another cocktail. Maybe you linger, chatting until the lights turn on. Then the check arrives without you asking.

The Chronicle conducted a survey of how 20 Bay Area restaurants handle their closing times and lingering guests, inspired by a recent experience Chronicle critic MacKenzie Chung Fegan had at San Francisco restaurant Alora. Questions included what time the kitchen closes, how long restaurants let diners remain after closing and how long they allot for each reservation.

While the questions seem straightforward, the way these topics are handled is as varied as the participating restaurants.

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Posted hours

The majority of responding restaurants treat closing time as when they seat their final reservations, not a hard and fast time to shut down.

But some restaurants dont have any set closing time at all. Cassava owner Yuka Ioroi says she removed the closing time from the restaurants website for flexibility; sometimes the restaurant will close early if business is slow.

The relationship between the advertised closing time and the kitchen closing time varies from restaurant to restaurant. For some, last call is the closing time. For others, its about 15 minutes before closing time. And for others, like Cassava, the kitchen remains open until the last table orders dessert.

(Not so) subtle hints

Every now and then, a party lingers past the end of service, which can be tricky for staff.

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Mike Beal, co-owner of the Patio in the Marina District, said there are often several hints for diners the restaurant is winding down. It starts with a last call to put in orders, then escalates with music volume lowering. Finally, staff drops off a check.

Seeing staff begin cleaning up is a pretty strong cue. Kao Saelee, founder of Jos Modern Thai in Oakland, says the restaurant doesnt rush diners out, though many begin to leave when staff begins visibly cleaning up.

Vikram Bhambri, co-owner of Alora and Rooh, stated he tries to keep his restaurants open at least an hour if not more past the closing time. At Alora, thats 9:30 p.m. on weekdays.

However, when Fegan, the Chronicles restaurant critic, recently went to Alora, she noted the restaurants vibey lighting and music came to an abrupt halt minutes before 10 p.m., just 30 minutes after closing.

While the majority of restaurant operators said they were willing to drop hints, others responded that they would never ask a customer to leave, as it goes against the spirit of hospitality.

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Time limits

Its become more common since the COVID-19 pandemic for restaurants to list strict time limits on reservation platforms. Some even warn diners when they sit down.

At Piglet & Co. in the Mission District, for example, the restaurants website and reservations platform clearly state each booking is 90 minutes long. To be fair to everyone, we try our best to stick to those time allotments on busy nights, chef-owner Chris Yang wrote. Larger groups and customers coming in later might be allowed a bit more time, though.

The majority of responding restaurants said they didnt have strict time limits. Instead, they have projections to stay organized. A reservation for a party of two can often be expected to last 90 minutes to 2 hours. More time is often allotted for parties of four and more, ranging from 2 hours up to 5 hours.

Server Orlando Dao delivers dishes to tables at Piglet & Co. in 2023. Piglet & Co. is a nontraditional Taiwan and night market-inspired restaurant in San Franciscos Mission District. Salgu Wissmath/The Chronicle

To accommodate a waiting party without kicking out a seated group, some restaurants get creative. At Lazy Bear, chef-owner David Barzelay has offered tours of the kitchen and wine cellar as a means of freeing up tables.

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Some restaurants politely ask a party to move to the bar. It is of course a difficult situation as you dont want to offend the guests, or dampen their experience, Lord Stanley owner Carrie Blease wrote. But at the same time we are a business and do need to accommodate every booking.

A lingering table, however, can eat into the restaurants bottom line. After closing time, the revenue from one table of diners likely wouldnt cover the overtime that Anthony Salguero, chef-owner of Popoca in Oakland, would have to pay staff to continue working. I normally just gauge it and if we are pretty much done breaking down the restaurant its time for them to go, he wrote.

Extra long stays

Brandon Jew, chef-owner of the lauded Mister Jius in Chinatown, noted that the COVID-19 pandemics restrictions on dining made most patrons at his restaurant more considerate of staff and operating hours generally.

But thats not every operators experience.

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Bartender Freddie Martinez makes a martini at Harris Restaurant in San Francisco. A regular customer is known to come in close to final seating. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle

Foreign Cinema co-owner Gayle Pirie says her popular Mission District restaurant has experienced what she referred to as extreme lingering, when patrons stay at least an hour past closing. One time, a party ate brunch and then stayed for dinner  though she expressed pride that the group wanted to have two meals at Foreign Cinema on the same day.

Sometimes a restaurant is happy to oblige a customer staying well past closing time.
The US set aside 23 million acres of Alaskas North Slope to serve as an emergency oil supply a century ago. Now, President Joe Biden is moving to block oil and gas development across roughly half of it. HT Image

The initiative, set to be finalized within days, marks one of the most sweeping efforts yet by Biden to limit oil and gas exploration on federal lands. It comes as he seeks to boost land conservation and fight climate change  and is campaigning for a second term on promises to do more of it.

The changes wouldnt affect ConocoPhillipss controversial 600-million-barrel Willow oil project in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. But industry leaders say the plan is more expansive than initially anticipated and threatens to make it nearly impossible to build another megaproject in the region.

Thats spooking oil companies with holdings in the National Petroleum Reserve, which  along with the rest of Alaskas North Slope  was viewed as a major growth engine for the industry before the shale boom. Interest has surged again in recent years, fed by mammoth discoveries. Tapping the regions reservoirs could yield decades of production.

Company executives and Alaska lawmakers have increasingly raised alarm over the plan, saying it could thwart oil and gas development across much of the reserve, even on existing leases. The opposition has united a broad spectrum of foes, from Alaska Natives to lower-48 oil producers.

Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, on Thursday broadly condemned the proposal, saying it would harm Americas energy security. It would openly defy federal law while ignoring rising energy prices and growing global volatility, she said in a post on X.

Santos Ltd., which leases more than a million acres within the reserve and is developing the nearby Pikka Unit joint venture with Repsol SA, said in a filing with the government that the proposal would infringe on its holdings, with impacts as extensive as whole projects being denied. ConocoPhillips, which has 156 leases in the reserve, warned the regulation would violate its contracts and drive investment away from the NPR-A. And Armstrong Oil & Gas Inc., whose leases there span 1.1 million gross acres, said the measure could block it from building the infrastructure needed to access those tracts.

The proposed rule would effectively nationalize the companys leases, Chief Executive Officer Bill Armstrong told White House officials in a March 21 meeting, according to people familiar with the discussion. A company spokesman declined to comment on the matter.

Administration officials argue the changes are necessary to balance oil development with the protection of sensitive landscapes that provide habitat for polar bears, migratory birds and the 61,500-strong Teshekpuk caribou herd. We must do everything within our control to meet the highest standards of care to protect this fragile ecosystem, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in announcing the measure last year.

Read More: Biden Backs $8 Billion Oil Project, Imperiling Green Agenda

The regulation would limit future oil development in some 13 million acres of designated special areas within the Indiana-sized reserve, including territory currently under lease. Thered be an outright prohibition on new leasing in 10.6 million acres.

The proposal would create a formal program for expanding protected areas at least once every five years  while making it difficult to undo those designations. And it would raise the bar for future development elsewhere in the reserve.

The Interior Department said in a preamble the regulation wouldnt affect existing leases. But the proposed rule text doesnt offer similar, explicit assurance. Instead, it proposes to give the government broad authority to limit or bar access to existing leases, regardless of any existing authorization. Oil leasing and infrastructure development would be presumed not to be permitted unless specific information clearly demonstrates the work can be done with no or minimal adverse effects on the habitat.

Environmentalists and some Alaska Natives have widely praised Biden for setting aside territory for conservation.

These are resources that once theyre gone, theyre gone forever, and we cant wait until they have disappeared to go and get them back, said Rachael Hamby, policy director for the Center for Western Priorities. We need to manage now to protect those resources and values for present and future generations.

The Alaska Wilderness League has cast the measure as helping foster a new direction in Americas Arctic to the benefit of the climate, the environment and Alaska Natives who rely on the lands for subsistence.

The Interior Department says the proposal would not have a significant effect on the nations energy supply. Still, the reserve could be a notable source of fuel, with the rock formations beneath it holding an estimated 8.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil, according to a 2017 assessment by the US Geological Survey. Enthusiasm for the region picked up after recent discoveries in the Nanushuk field, and the state of Alaska expects crude production from the reserve to climb from 15,800 barrels per day in fiscal 2023 to 139,600 barrels per day in fiscal 2033.

Opponents say the plan would shift the role of the reserve to conservation instead of oil development, contrary to congressional intent. The current statute says that the primary purpose is to increase domestic oil supply as expeditiously as possible, said Kara Moriarty, president of the Alaska Oil and Gas Association. But the rule takes a completely different premise.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
US President Joe Biden found himself in the centre of mockery thanks to a slip-up he made during a White House press conference on Wednesday night. US President Joe Bidens recent speech mistake becomes fodder for political discussio. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg(Bloomberg)

Halfway through the presidential speech in Arizona, the president had a small hesitation, without even noticing, claiming, Elect me, I'm in the 20th century, and quickly, he corrected himself by saying, They werent even a state.

His slip of the tongue came in response to a question from NBC's Peter Alexander regarding a recent Arizona state supreme court ruling that restricted abortion rights.

The presidential flub became the perfect grist for the conservative millers, who did not hesitate to rebuild their political narrative around the faux pas, and many jolts of at least he get something right came down the pipe.

ALSO READ| White House pressed to act against Chinese EV imports amid national security concerns

The unscripted question he was asked, he answered this, Podcast host Stephen Miller, joked.

Steve Cortes, former Donald Trump aide, took to social media to express his concern. If this was your elderly parent or grandparent, you would pull them off the stage, he remarked.

Not allow them to run for reelection of the most powerful country on earth.

Arizona Supreme court upholds Abortion ban

Arizona's Supreme Court's decision to bring back the 160-year-old abortion law, allowed for their situation to develop but also added to Biden's gaffes.

The law, as it was passed in 1913, about a year after the state of Arizona joined the United States of America, prohibits almost complete abortions, with the only exceptions being made when a mother's life is in danger. Lawbreakers of course, may be held liable and also charged with a felony that is enforceable with an imprisonment of 2 to 5 years.

Journalists and commentators wasted no time in capitalizing on Biden's slip-up, with Ian Miles Cheong quipping, Biden is a man of the 20th century. Oh boy, while Jim Rickards sarcastically remarked, Biden finally got something right. He said, Im in the 20th century.'

ALSO READ| Elon Musk vs Justice Alexandre de Moraes: Know about X owner's free speech feud with Brazil

During the press conference, Biden acknowledged his reliance on a predetermined list of reporters to field questions, momentarily pausing to consult the list before proceeding. Jason Miller, a former Trump adviser, took aim at Biden's brief moment of confusion, derisively referring to it as a bridge to the 1900s.
Former President Donald Trump made waves on Thursday by apparently endorsing independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a preferable alternative to President Biden for liberal voters. Kennedy campaign accused of being spoiler, Donald Trump favours RFK Jr. over Joe Biden(Getty Images via AFP/AP)

Trump, in a video posted on Truth Social, described, RFK Jr. is, as you know, the most radical left candidate in the race. Hes more so than the Green Party. Hes more so than even crooked Joe Biden. But hes got some nice things about him. I happen to like him.

The former urged liberal voters to consider casting their ballots for Kenned: RFK Jr. is going to be taking away votes from crooked Joe Biden and he should because hes actually better than Biden, and added, If I were a Democrat, Id vote for RFK Jr. every single time over Biden, because hes frankly more in line with Democrats

ALSO READ| Critics mock Joe Biden after 'I'm in the 20th century' gaffe

Hes a better man than Joe Biden, that I can tell you, he said.

Kennedy indictment, a political maneuver?

During the recent election race, the Kennedy campaign has turned out to be a flare-up issue, and the candidates are also accused of being a spoiler, which truly favours Trump, especially after the ex-consultant claimed that the campaign was working to deprive Biden of the votes.

As per a recent RealClearPolitics survey, Kennedy has raked in a vast number of supporters. However, he is still left with a gap of 10% nationally between him and the competitors.

RFK Jr., son of the late Robert F. Kennedy, started his presidential campaign on the Democratic party platform, but then decided to run his bid as an independent candidate. The candidate described by him employs a campaign strategy whereby he appeases to the people who are turned off by both Trump and Biden. He is trying to be seen as an acceptable choice to them, unlike the major party candidates.

ALSO READ| FBI warns Congress against possible coordinated attack in US after Russia massacre

Trump, however, baselessly predicted that Kennedy would face indictment by the Justice Department before the election for probably for environmental fraud,-anyway He is Bidens political opponent, not mine.
Donald Trump is due to make a public appearance with embattled U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson on Friday, in a bid to demonstrate unity as the chamber's new leader struggles to wrangle his thin and fractious majority. The meeting presents Johnson with a chance to demonstrate a united front with Donald Trump that Republicans say is necessary if the party is to retain control of the House and capture both the Senate and the White House in November.(REUTERS)

Johnson gained the speaker's gavel in a weeks-long October nominating battle after a handful of House Republican hardliners orchestrated the ouster of his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, a historic first. Another party hardliner, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, has threatened to make a similar move against Johnson if he allows a vote on more aid for Ukraine as it struggles to fight off a Russian invasion.

Greene had also voiced opposition to a surveillance bill the House passed on Friday. The appearance at Trump's Mar-a-Lago Florida resort with the Republican presidential candidate could help buck up Johnson's standing with his 218-213 majority. His own members have repeatedly torpedoed his legislative priorities, including this week by temporarily blocking the surveillance bill and in February, when it took two efforts to advance a bid to approve articles of impeachment against Democratic President Joe Biden's top border official, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Why is this meeting crucial?

Trump, who holds great sway with congressional Republicans, has also regularly weighed in on legislation, including killing a bipartisan U.S.-Mexico border security deal, passage of which could have weakened one of his key attacks against Biden.

The meeting presents Johnson with a chance to demonstrate a united front with the former president that Republicans say is necessary if the party is to retain control of the House and capture both the Senate and the White House in November.

"We've got to get on the same page about where we want the party to go," said Representative Kevin Hern, who leads the conservative Republican Study Committee, the biggest House Republican caucus.

"I don't think we've all heard directly how the president and the speaker are aligned," Hern added. "We've got to get in lockstep as the Republican Party."

Greene renews threats to force a vote to remove Johnson

Greene this week has repeated her threats to force a vote to remove Johnson from leadership.

"Our voters will not support a Republican Party that continues like his leadership has been," Greene told reporters after a meeting with Johnson on Wednesday. "We have to have changed behavior that supports the policies that the American people are supporting under President Trump."

Disorder within the caucus has repeatedly forced Johnson to use a parliamentary maneuver bypassing Republican hardliners and relying on substantial Democratic support to pass critical legislation, such as bills averting government shutdowns.

But strong support from Trump could neutralize Greene's ouster threat and spare a repeat of the chaos that ensued after McCarthy's ouster. Trump could also determine which path the speaker takes on Ukraine aid, despite appeals to approve the assistance from an unprecedented number of foreign leaders.

"As far as being able to move anything in the House, his support or lack thereof is actually incredibly impactful," Republican Representative Kelly Armstrong said.
Ben Rhodes, former Obama deputy national security advisor, highlighted the corruption at Jared Kushner's firm during his Wednesday appearance on MSNBC. Rhodes' comments came after he was asked about New York Time's recent report that says 99 percent of Kushner's funding came from international sources. I mean, look, this is not subtle corruption that were looking at, Rhodes told interviewer Alex Wagner. Ex-Obama advisor lambasts Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner's funding from foreign sources(REUTERS)

Former Obama advisor highlights corruption at Jared Kushner's firm

The outlet also mentioned in the report that Donald Trump's son-in-law is also involved in the development of hotels in the Balkans- Serbia and Albania, in particular. It was also previously reported that Kushner received a staggering $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia just six months after leaving the White House.

This is a guy, Jared Kushner, who had no expertise, no qualification whatsoever to be in the White House while he was there. He made it his account to work in the Gulf Arab states. He basically helped lead the cover-up for [Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman]. Get him in from the cold after the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, Rhodes said.

He continued, Basically, what we can take from that investment is that in a second Trump term, U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and around the world will be made entirely with the interests of Mohammed bin Salman in mind, adding, He chose to work on issues in the Middle East, and he chose to work with the Gulf Arab states, knowing that the payout would be on the back end.

Rhodes also compared Kushner to Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, saying, And here we have the presidents son-in-law, who worked in the White House  unlike Hunter Biden  whos collected $2 billion on the back end of his service. Now hes got his father-in-law running for president. Right? This is not only unusual, this is unprecedented.
Ahead of presidential elections, US First Lady Jill Biden blasted presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump by calling him a "bully" and "dangerous to the LGBTQ community". In a bid to garner LGBTQ voters for President Joe Biden's reelection campaign, Jill urged the community members to fight like hell to defeat Trump in the White House race.(Bloomberg)

In a bid to garner LGBTQ voters for President Joe Biden's reelection campaign, Jill urged the community members to fight like hell to defeat Trump in the White House race.

Speaking at the Human Rights Campaigns Equality in Action gathering in Virginia, the US First Lady highlighted the Biden administration's work for the progress of LGBTQ community and warned against the dangers if Trump gets elected in November.

She claimed that states are enacting legislation "targeting this community" and that outside forces are attempting to reverse the community's "hard-won gains" by taking away rights and freedoms. She urged members to put in daily effort until the election on November 5th to mobilise support for Biden.

Also Read: President Joe Biden's temper out of control over all-time low poll numbers

In 2020, the majority of voters from the LGBTQ community backed Biden. However, the incumbent president now needs overwhelming support from the voters as he is struggling with a low public approval rating.

Donald Trump is a bully. He is dangerous to the LGBTQ community, to our families, to our country and we cannot let him win. We have to fight like hell until [President Biden] and [Vice President Harris] have another term, Jill noted, as reported by The Hill.

Jill further outlined that Biden signed laws defending gay marriage, overturned a Trump-era directive prohibiting transgender people from joining the military, and eased restrictions levied on homosexual and bisexual men donating blood.

"There are forces outside these walls that are trying to unwind all the progress that we've made, trying to erase these hard-fought gains," she said.

"They want to take our victories away but we wont let them. Your president will not let them. I will not let them," the First Lady concluded.

Trump is dangerous to women and to our families, says Jill Biden

During a campaign tour in March, Jill Biden, who has been denouncing Trump ahead of the White House race, claimed that Trump was dangerous to women and to our families". She also recalled his past remarks about women and his stance on abortion.

Also Read: 'He's not for anything, he's against everything,' Joe Biden slams Donald Trump in campaign HQ speech

Her Friday remarks come days after the Biden campaign unveiled Out for Biden-Harris, a brand-new nationwide campaign focused at rallying LGBTQ voters. The Biden-Harris administration, according to the reelection campaign, is the most pro-LGBTQ White House in history. It was highlighted that leading LGBTQ organisations, such as the Human Rights Campaign, the National Center for Transgender Equality, and Equality PAC, have supported the Biden-Harris administration.

Trump campaign is yet to react on Jill's latest remarks against Trump.
Salman Rushdie, the renowned Indian-born British-American author, has recounted the incident where he was stabbed on stage during a talk in August 2022. In his first interview since the encounter, Rushdie shed light on the incident in his forthcoming memoir, Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder. Rushdie was about to give a talk at the Chautauqua Institution in New York when a man rushed on stage and stabbed him about 10 times. British-US author Salman Rushdie(AFP)

Salman Rushdie recalls his encounter with his attacker

I was seated at stage right. Then, in the corner of my right eye  the last thing my right eye would ever see  I saw the man in black running toward me down the right-hand side of the seating area. Black clothes, black face mask. He was coming in hard and low. A squat missile, Rushdie read from his forthcoming memoir.

Following the attack, Rushdie spent six weeks in the hospital, losing vision in his right eye and a diminished sensation in his fingers.

In his first interview after the attack, Rushdie spoke to Anderson Cooper on CBSs 60 Minutes, sharing, "One of the surgeons who had saved my life said to me, First you were really unlucky, and then you were really lucky. I said, Whats the lucky part? and he said, Well, the lucky part is that the man who attacked you had no idea how to kill a man with a knife."

The attack occurred 33 years after Ayatollah Khomeini issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie's death due to the publication of his book, The Satanic Verses.

The alleged attacker, Hadi Matar, pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree attempted murder and second-degree assault and has been held without bail since his arrest. Matar's trial was delayed in January due to Rushdie's forthcoming memoir, titled "Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder," which is due to be published.

The Midnight's Children author announced the memoir in June of the previous year, saying, This was a necessary book for me to write: a way to take charge of what happened and to answer violence with art. Rushdie won the Booker Prize in 1981 for his book Midnights Children. With 15 novels under his name, he is well known in the literary world.
The House voted Friday to reauthorize and reform a key U.S. government surveillance tool following a dramatic showdown on the floor over whether the FBI should be restricted from using the program to search for Americans data. Representative Tim Burchett, a Republican from Tennessee, center, speaks during a news conference on FISA reauthorization at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US, on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. The outcome on a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) compromise is in nebulous in large part because the House, and in particular the GOP conference, is so divided on the issue. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg(Bloomberg)

The bill was approved on a bipartisan basis, 273-147, though it will still have to clear the Senate to become law. The surveillance program is set to expire on April 19 unless Congress acts.

Passage of the bill represented a much-needed victory for Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., who has been wrangling with conservative critics of the legislation for months. A group of 19 Republicans revolted to block the bill from coming to the floor earlier in the week, forcing Johnson to make late changes to secure their support.

What is next?

The legislation approved Friday would extend the surveillance program for two years, rather than the full five-year authorization first proposed. Johnson hoped that the shorter timeline would sway GOP critics by pushing any future debate on the issue to the presidency of Donald Trump if he were to win back the White House in November.

Still, the legislation teetered precariously Friday morning as lawmakers voted on an amendment  vociferously opposed by Johnson, the White House and sponsors of the legislation  that would have prohibited the warrantless surveillance of Americans.

One of his top critics, Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said that Johnsons vote against the warrant requirement was another strike against him.

Basically, whats the difference in Speaker (Nancy) Pelosi and Speaker Johnson and theres not one," the Georgia lawmaker said.

The amendment ultimately failed by the narrowest of margins, in a 212-212 tie. Supporters breathed a sigh of relief as the vote was gaveled to a close.

The vote on the amendment cut across party lines, uniting progressives and conservatives who agree on little else, but have long been skeptical of the government's surveillance powers.

And opponents of the legislation weren't giving up. In a surprise move after the vote was closed on the overall bill, a Republican made a procedural motion preventing the legislation from being sent to the Senate. An additional vote will be needed next week.

The legislation approved Friday would permit the U.S. government to collect, without a warrant, the communications of non-Americans located outside the country to gather foreign intelligence. The reauthorization is currently tied to a series of reforms aimed at satisfying critics who complained of civil liberties violations against Americans.

But far-right opponents have complained that those changes did not go far enough. The vocal detractors are some of Johnsons harshest critics, members of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, who have railed against the speaker the last several months for reaching across the aisle to carry out the basic functions of the government.

To further appease some of those critics, Johnson also plans to bring forward next week a separate proposal that would close a loophole that allows U.S. officials to collect data on Americans from big tech companies without a warrant.

Though the program is technically set to expire next Friday, the Biden administration has said it expects its authority to collect intelligence to remain operational for at least another year, thanks to an opinion earlier this month from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, which receives surveillance applications. But officials say that court approval shouldnt be a substitute for congressional authorization, especially since communications companies could cease cooperation with the government.

What is FISA and Why Trump wants to kill it?

First authorized in 2008, the spy tool has been renewed several times since then as U.S. officials see it as crucial in disrupting terror attacks, cyber intrusions and foreign espionage. It has also produced intelligence that the U.S. has relied on for specific operations.

But the administrations efforts to secure reauthorization of the program have repeatedly encountered fierce, and bipartisan, pushback, with Democrats like Sen. Ron Wyden who have long championed civil liberties aligning with Republican supporters of former President Donald Trump, who in a post on Truth Social on Wednesday stated incorrectly that Section 702 had been used to spy on his presidential campaign.

Kill FISA, Trump wrote in all capital letters. It was illegally used against me, and many others. They spied on my campaign. A former adviser to his 2016 presidential campaign was targeted for surveillance over potential ties to Russia under a different section of the law.

A specific area of concern for lawmakers is the FBIs use of the vast intelligence repository to search for information about Americans and others in the U.S. Though the surveillance program only targets non-Americans in other countries, it also collects communications of Americans when they are in contact with those targeted foreigners.

In the past year, U.S. officials have revealed a series of abuses and mistakes by FBI analysts in improperly querying the intelligence repository for information about Americans or others in the U.S., including about a member of Congress and participants in the racial justice protests of 2020 and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Those violations have led to demands for the FBI to have a warrant before conducting database queries on Americans, which FBI director Chris Wray has warned would effectively gut the program's effectiveness and would also be legally unnecessary given that the information in the database has already been lawfully collected.

While it is imperative that we ensure this critical authority of 702 does not lapse, we also must not undercut the effectiveness of this essential tool with a warrant requirement or some similar restriction, paralyzing our ability to tackle fast-moving threats, Wray said in a speech Tuesday.
The chair of the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday urged President Joe Biden to block Chinese-made vehicles from the United States auto market, marking the strongest call yet for action against China's automakers by a U.S. lawmaker. Senator Sherrod Brown, a Democrat from Ohio urges Joe Biden to ban Chienese EVs. Photographer: Tierney L. Cross/Bloomberg(Bloomberg)

"I implore you to take bold, aggressive action and to permanently ban EVs produced by Chinese companies or whatever subsidiaries they establish to conceal their origins," Senator Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, wrote on Thursday to Biden calling for "expeditious" action. "Chinese electric vehicles are an existential threat to the American auto industry."

The White House did not immediately comment on Thursday.

In March, Biden said that China's policies "could flood our market with its vehicles, posing risks to our national security" and that he would "not let that happen on my watch."

ALSO READ| Top US general meets IDF leadership amid escalation in Israel-Iran tensions

Why the concern now?

Brown's comments arguing for a permanent ban of Chinese EVs from the U.S. market are the strongest yet by any U.S. lawmaker on the issue. Others have called for steep tariffs to keep EVs out of the United States.

Last month, Brown and Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow of Michigan - all from auto-producing states - called on Biden to drastically hike import tariffs on Chinese EVs to address national security risks. Concerns have also been raised by lawmakers and advocates that Chinese automakers could assemble low-cost vehicles in Mexico to allow them to qualify for U.S. EV tax credits.

Auto industry officials told Reuters in February that Biden is considering hiking tariffs on Chinese EVs and the letter is the latest in growing pressure on the White House to take further steps to prevent Chinese vehicle imports.

In March, the Commerce Department opened an investigation into whether Chinese vehicle imports pose national security risks and could impose restrictions due to concerns that "connected" car technology could put the data of Americans at risk.

"We are going as fast we can to identify the risks and take any actions we think are national security concerns," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told Reuters last month. "If China is subsidizing the vehicles in a way that puts American workers at a disadvantage we have to do something about that."

Two Republican senators have also proposed legislation seeking to hike tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles, though relatively few Chinese vehicles are imported into the United States.

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The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately comment on Thursday but has previously rejected calls to hike tariffs, saying China's automobile exports "reflect the high-quality development and strong innovation of Chinas manufacturing industry."

A bipartisan group of lawmakers in November urged U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to boost tariffs on Chinese vehicles.
Aroh Barjatya, a renowned scientist of Indian origin, led NASA's crucial mission that was launched during a total solar eclipse on April 8. The space agency's Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path (APEP) mission was first launched during annular solar eclipse in October 2023. After the successful launch of the mission, Barjatya thanked his colleagues, students, and the devoted team at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and Wallops Sounding Rocket Program Office.(Aroh Barjatya)

Last year, the instruments aboard the rockets observed abrupt and dramatic changes in the ionosphere.

According to Barjatya, researchers noticed disturbances in the second and third rocket that could have an impact on radio communications.

Prior to the launch on Monday, he stated that they are really eager to relaunch them during the total solar eclipse in order to see whether the perturbations begin at the same altitude or their scale and amplitude remain the same.

Barjatya thanks colleagues after NASA launched three sounding rockets during solar eclipse

During solar eclipse on Monday, three Black Brant IX sounding rockets were fired from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. The APEP mission aims to investigate the disruptions in the Earths upper atmosphere, which occurs when the moon temporarily blocks the suns light.

NASA launched three Black Brant IX sounding rockets were fired from Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.(NASA)

According to NASA, Barjatya is presently employed as an engineering and physics professor at Florida's esteemed Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He also oversees Embry-Riddle's renowned Space and Atmospheric Instrumentation Lab.

NASA in a statement emphasised the importance of the APEP mission and mentioned Barjatya's crucial contribution in coordinating it.

After the successful launch of the mission, Barjatya thanked his colleagues, students, and the devoted team at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and Wallops Sounding Rocket Program Office.

"My deepest gratitude to all my fellow researchers at collaborating institutions and insanely capable and stellar students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, as well as, most crucially, to everyone at NASA Wallops Sounding Rocket Program Office and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center for helping accomplish six complex rocket missions in six months!!!" he wrote in a post on LinkedIn.

Also Read: Solar flare explosion during solar eclipse? What people really saw on the Sun was this

All you need to know about Aroh Barjatya's education and family background

Aroh has attended schools and colleges in India before moving to the United States for higher studies. While his father Ashok Kumar Barjatya is an eminent chemical engineer, his mother Rajeshwari is a homemaker.

Also Read: Elon Musk treats viewers with StarLink's rare eclipse footage from Earth's orbit

After completing his schooling in Mumbai's Patalganga, he traveled to Hyderabad, Jaipur, Pilani, and Solapur. He graduated from the esteemed Walchand Institute of Technology in Solapur with a degree in electronics engineering.

In 2001, Aroh moved to the United States to obtain a master's degree in electrical engineering at Utah State University, continuing his quest for academic achievement. He subsequently pursued a doctorate in spacecraft instrumentation from Utah State University after delving more into engineering.
Customers wait at Snoberg, a soft serve stand at Saluhall in San Francisco on April 5. Michaela Vatcheva/Special to the Chronicle

Tim Lahan was eating dinner on Thursday night when a friend sent him a link to a San Francisco Chronicle article about a buzzy new food hall in downtown San Francisco. The friend had noticed that images throughout the IKEA-adjacent Saluhall on Market Street looked eerily similar to Lahans artwork.

Lahan was shocked when he saw Saluhalls main branding image, published on its website, the walls of the food hall and on social media: a curved mouth, ear, eye and nose that appears to be a slightly rearranged version of his work, which has been published in the New Yorker and produced for other clients including Nike. Dozens of messages poured in, asking him if he had collaborated with Saluhall, and consternation started to spread on social media. He watched videos of Mayor London Breed on opening day at Saluhall walking past imagery that he felt had been blatantly copied.

I just think its important that intellectual property rights are paid attention to, he told the Chronicle. Thats clearly not being respected.

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A Saluhall spokesperson said Friday that this matter was just brought to our attention and we are looking into it, but did not answer specific questions for this article. Ingka Centres, IKEAs real estate sister company, operates the 23,000-square-foot, two-story food hall, the anchor of a mixed-use development that also includes an IKEA store and a co-working space.

Artist Tim Lahan claims his work, left, has been copied by food hall Saluhall in San Francisco, pictured on right. Left: Courtesy of Tim Lahan, right: Caleb Pershan/The Chronicle

Lahan, a well-known San Francisco artist, said he started creating this body of work more than a decade ago. An illustration dated 2012 shows the same rounded eye, nose, ear and mouth perched atop a banana. In 2014, the nose was featured on the cover of Lahans first illustrated childrens book, titled The Nosyhood. He produced a series of similar illustrations published in the New Yorker in 2018 as well as for New Yorker T-shirts. The images helped build his reputation, he said, as he became known for this artistic style.

At Saluhall, similar illustrations decorate one main wall inside, customers food trays, the exterior of a photo booth and the buildings front doors and windows in advance of Thursdays grand opening. People lined up in front of neon signs of comparable, rounded images decorating Saluhalls in-house vendors, including a soft serve stand and cocktail bar. Social media videos show employees wearing black aprons stamped with the yellow mouth, eye, ear and nose.

Lahan said he hasnt formally registered copyrights to protect this work. But he said publishing giant Conde Nast, which owns the New Yorker, has some legal right to the images. Hes talking to lawyers and plans to pursue legal action.

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Andy Jacobson of Bay Oak Law, an Oakland copyright attorney who has represented artists, said under a 2019 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Lahan needs an official registration with the U.S. Copyright Office in order to file an infringement lawsuit. But its simple to apply for one, and even without the registration, Lahan has options to protect his work, Jacobson said. While the Saluhall images are not an exact copy of his art, he could argue it qualifies as derivative work, the rights of which belong to the artist, Jacobson said.

If he has five or eight or 15 of these similar things, then he would have a really good argument that they infringed upon his derivative work, Jacobson said.

Artwork produced by Tim Lahan, who claims San Francisco food hall Saluhall has mimicked his images. Courtesy Tim Lahan

Theres also a possible argument for trademark infringement and, potentially, damages, Jacobson said.

Companies can be stopped from using marks or advertising that falsely suggests some association, he said. If the artist has enough of a reputation they can say, Hey, people might think that Im endorsing you and Im not. Youve gotta stop this now. 

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This isnt the first time this has happened to Lahan. He said people often send him social media posts or other work with images that arent properly attributed to him. But the involvement of a massive development affiliated with an international company is a scale he hasnt experienced before.
The crime of dancing may bring punishment for some recent college graduates who insist "there's nothing illegal in celebrating".

A group of Iranian graduates are facing prosecution after a viral video of the women dancing at their graduation made its way across social media platforms this week.

The footage shows 11 female students from Al-Zahra University in Bushehr, Iran, dancing and riding a motorcycle in celebration.

This video of Iranian students celebrating their graduation with music and dance from Al-Zahra University in the southern port city of Bushehr has gone viral in Iran.



Now the university president is threatening that they may face prosecution. https://t.co/uFAC9NVdqw pic.twitter.com/F4X5Eyxwzp  Holly Dagres (@hdagres) April 8, 2024

The university's president, Zahra Hajiani, told the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) that the video had been made "without coordination and obtaining permission from the university" and was an "illegal activity," according to The Guardian.

Hajiani said the university would pursue legal action against the students.

"This matter is under investigation by the university's security. The student who produced this video has been identified and is supposed to be accountable for this action along with his father tomorrow."

Human rights lawyers suggested that the university likely issued the legal threat due to pressure from Iranian authorities.

"There's no specific law banning them from dancing or riding motorcycles. This is an attempt to break the strong student movement in Iran, which showed during the Woman, Life, Freedom protests that it's stronger than ever," said the Canada-based Iranian human rights lawyer Hossein Raeesi.

Raeesi added, "The kids are simply celebrating their achievements, and any legal threat is absurd," and highlighted that the "vagueness" of the laws is used by authorities to prosecute individuals for "indecency."

Over the past decade, human rights groups have reported several cases of women being detained for dancing in public.

Two women were arrested earlier in March for dancing in Tehran's Tajrish Square while dressed as fictional Iranian folklore characters.

The arrests were described as "committing acts of norm-breaking" by state media.

"This video shows that all the suspensions and bans have done nothing to discourage us from celebrating our achievements with music and dance. We continue to defy their rules. University presidents are just mouthpieces of the Islamic Republic. There's nothing illegal in celebrating, nor is protesting illegal"an Iran-based student expressed to The Guardian.

Following the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman who died in a Tehran hospital in September 2022 after being detained by police for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code, protests erupted worldwide. The demonstrations were primarily led by young women, including schoolgirls and university students.
Russia has just revealed an unexpected message to countries in the Middle East.

The nation urged countries in the Middle East to exercise restraint after Iran vowed to retaliate following a strike earlier this month on its embassy in Syria that killed members of the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

"It is extremely important today for everyone to show restraint in order to avoid a complete destabilization of the situation in the region, which already does not shine with stability and predictability," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, according to Russian news agency Tass.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reiterated the regime's commitment to respond to the April 1 strike in Damascus that killed two generals and other members of the IRGC, blaming the attack on Israel.

"When they attack the consulate, it is as if they have attacked our soil," Khamenei said in a speech Wednesday. "The evil regime made a mistake and must be punished and it shall be."

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack.

The strike on the embassy in Syria has inflamed tensions in the Middle East, already on edge because of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

"We undoubtedly urge all countries in the region to show restraint," Peskov said. "You all know well that we have condemned the strikes against the Iranian consulate office. We have expressed our resolute condemnation regarding the delivered strikes. They violated all the principles of international law."

Russia is embroiled in a war in Ukraine after invading its western neighbor in February 2022.
Donald Trump became a strong pitchman  to Democrats  for independent presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr. on Thursday just as the anti-vax candidate appears to be edging ever closer to Trump's positions.

"If I were a Democrat, I'd vote for RFK Jr.," Trump urged voters in a video message posted to Truth Social. "He'd make a better president than Joe Biden."

He indicated that Kennedy is more likely to pull votes from Biden and is therefore "great for MAGA"  and for Trump's chances of victory.

"RFK Jr. is, as you know, the most radical left candidate in the race ... more so than .... even Crooked Joe Biden. But he's got some nice things about him, I happen to like him," said Trump.

"If I were a Democrat, I'd vote for RFK Jr. every single time over Biden, because he's frankly more in line with Democrats," Trump added.

To make it crystal clear that he wants voters to believe Kennedy will be a problem for Biden,  and not him Trump added that Kennedy is "Crooked Joe Biden's political opponent, not mine."

While the Kennedy family legacy is solidly Democrat, many of RFK Jr.'s positions are more akin to Trump's than Biden's. Kennedy is a conspiracy theorist, and a fundraising email from his campaign recently called Jan. 6 rioters "activists," not lawbreakers (which he later called an "unfortunate error.") He also vowed to investigate prosecutions of those who stormed the Capital for "political bias."

It's not yet clear which candidate he'll pull the most votes from. Polling in early March indicated that Kennedy represented more competition for Biden than Trump.

But Brian Seitchik, a Republican strategist and former Trump campaign veteran, said after Kennedy entered the race that his "positions are going to more appeal to Republican voters and therefore pull votes out of Donald Trump.

Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis also warned in a speech last year that "RFK Jr. will be a vessel for anti-lockdown and anti-Fauci voters if Trump is the nominee. That would hurt Trump," he added.
Morgan Geyser, who in the name of the fictional character Slender Man at the age of 12 attempted to kill her classmate, is too dangerous to leave the mental health facility where she was sentenced to 40 years, doctors testified.

Geyser, now 21, was in court this week, petitioning for her early release from the Winnebago Mental Health institute, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for the third time, according to WISN-TV.

On Wednesday, doctors took the stand to express their concerns over freeing her.

"It's my opinion, to a reasonable degree of professional certainty, that she currently presents a significant risk of bodily harm to herself or others if conditionally released," Dr. Deborah Collins said, the outlet reported. "If pressed to estimate the number of months, I would estimate six to twelve months. I know she's not ready now."

Geyser is currently being treated for PTSD and anxiety, the outlet reported, citing court records. She is no longer diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Doctors said they're also worried over Geyser's claims she lied about suffering from delusions after she was convicted because she did not want to go home to her allegedly abusive father.

Collins testified Geyser claimed she was sexually abused when she was younger, according to WITI-TV.

In 2014, the then-middle schooler and her friend, 12-year-old Anissa Weier, lured classmate Payton Leutner, also 12, to the Waukesha, Wisconsin, woods, where Geyser stabbed her 19 times in an effort to serve online horror figure Slender Man, prosecutors said, according to WTMJ-TV. Weier cheered Geyser on.

Leutner survived the near-fatal stabbing, and Weier and Geyser were tried as adults.

Weier pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree intentional homicide and was sentenced to up to 25 years in a mental institution. She was released in 2021, according to ABC News.

Geyser pleaded guilty to a greater charge of first-degree intentional homicide and was ordered to spend four decades at a psychiatric hospital.
Harry Potter author JK Rowling has burned the bridge she had with franchise actors Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson after saying that their support and advocacy for transgender rights made them "complicit" to the controversial medical intervention in gender care that was criticized in an independent review released this week.

According to the BBC, the Cass Review was released on Wednesday (Apr. 10), highlighting that children had been let down by what it claimed as "remarkably weak" evidence on medical intervention in gender care.

"It is unusual for us to give a potentially life-changing treatment to young people and not know what happens to them in adulthood, and that's been a particular problem that we haven't had the follow-up into adulthood to know what the results of this are," report author Dr. Hilary Cass told BBC Radio 4.

In reaction to the report, Rowling published a string of tweets welcoming the review, which raised concerns about gender identity services for minors under 18.

Over the last four years, Hilary Cass has conducted the most robust review of the medical evidence for transitioning children that's ever been conducted. Mere hours after it was released to the press and public, committed ideologues are doubling down. 1/6 https://t.co/J4fA4JYgkC  J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) April 10, 2024

"Over the last four years, Hilary Cass has conducted the most robust review of the medical evidence for transitioning children that's ever been conducted," she said on X, formerly Twitter. "Mere hours after it was released to the press and public, committed ideologues are doubling down."

Rowling also expressed outrage about how the trans rights movement supposedly destroyed countless lives due to the irreversible changes groups aligned to such an ideology allowed to happen in the past few years.

"The #CassReview may be a watershed moment, but it comes too late for detransitioners who've written me heartbreaking letters of regret," she concluded. "Today's not a triumph, it's the laying bare of a tragedy."

Rowling to Harry and Hermione: 'Save Your Apologies...'

Meanwhile, an X user named Adam Harris responded to Rowling's statements, wondering if Radcliffe and Watson - who portrayed Harry Potter and Hermione Granger, respectively - would "give [her] a public apology ... safe in the knowledge that [she would] forgive them."

Not safe, I'm afraid. Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces.  J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) April 10, 2024

"Not safe, I'm afraid," the author replied. "Celebs who cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights and who used their platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors can save their apologies for traumatized detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces."

Both actors have criticized Rowling for her convictions in 2020.

"It's clear that we need to do more to support transgender and nonbinary people, not invalidate their identities," Radcliffe said.

"Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they aren't who they say they are," Watson added.

Eddie Redmayne, the actor portraying Newt Scamander in Rowling's Fantastic Beasts franchise, also disagreed with the author, saying that "Trans women are women, trans men are men and non-binary identities are valid."

Rowling has been accused of being transphobic and a trans-exclusionary radical feminist (TERF) for her views on gender identity and for saying that transwomen should not be allowed into female-only spaces.

She has denied being transphobic, previously saying that she respected "every trans person's right to live any way that feels authentic and comfortable to them" and that she wanted people to be free from discrimination and abuse.

She also recently challenged police in Scotland, where she is currently residing, to arrest her under a new hate crime law after she described several trans women as men.

However, Police Scotland decided not to take any action, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour Party's shadow chancellor for the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden both supported Rowling's exercise of freedom of speech and criticized the Scottish legislation.

On the other hand, Ralph Fiennes, who played Potter villain Lord Voldemort, came to Rowling's defense, calling the abuse she received "disgusting" and "appalling."

Other stars, including Eddie Izzard and Helena Bonham Carter, have also said they did not consider Rowling's views to be transphobic but reflective of her own experience of abuse.
U.S. President Joe Biden said on Thursday, April 11, that the United States' defense commitment to Indo-Pacific allies Japan and the Philippines was "ironclad."

He, Fumio Kishida, and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gathered in the White House to discuss economic and defensive partnerships amid growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the region.

"The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad," he said in his initial remarks before the closed-door meeting. "As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty."

The U.S. and the Philippines have had a mutual defense treaty for 70 years. Before that, the tropical archipelago nation was part of Washington's Pacific holdings in the early 20th century.

Biden's forceful reinforcement of the American commitment came amid persistent skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea.

The White House organized the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines as a potent response to China's attempts at "intimidation," saying that it would send a message that China was "the outlier in the neighborhood," a Biden administration official said.

Recently, the three nations and Australia conducted a maritime patrol in the South China Sea in response to the harassment of Chinese coast guard ships in the area, which caused some injuries to Filipino supply boat crews.

"Today's summit is an opportunity to define the future that we want, and how we intend to achieve it together," Marcos said.

HNGN earlier reported that Japan and the U.S. have also upgraded their military and diplomatic cooperation due to the Chinese threat.

Biden, Marcos, and Kishida have also announced more joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific this year, including the U.S. Coast Guard welcoming its Filipino and Japanese counterparts onto a USCG vessel during a future patrol for training, the White House added.

Philippine president Marcos also called China out in a Fall of Bataan Day speech this week, saying that his nation would stand against oppression amid "unacceptable" and "unjust" threats to the country's sovereign rights.

In response to the summit, Chinese officials criticized Washington for allegedly exacerbating tensions, the Associated Press reported.

"No one should violate China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday.
The Glenn Heights Police Department in Texas has confirmed that the Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice turned himself into authorities for his involvement in a March 30 multi-vehicle collision on the Central Expressway.

Rice was charged with eight offenses, including six counts of collision causing bodily injury, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury, and one count of aggravated assault.



According to court documents, each count of all felonies came with a $5,000 bond, making his total bond $40,000.

The Dallas Morning News was informed by a DeSoto Regional Jail spokesman that Rice was no longer in custody.

According to Texas law, the most serious offense is aggravated assault, which carries a maximum penalty of two to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

On March 30, the incident that resulted in four injuries occurred on US Highway 75 in Dallas. Lawyer Royce West said that Rice was driving a Lamborghini SUV, and SMU receiver Teddy Knox was behind the wheel of Rice's Corvette.

"He's a young man that made a mistake," West told reporters last Thursday. He added that Rice would do everything he could to bring their life back to normal regarding injuries and property damage.

A six-car collision is said to have resulted from the two cars losing control while traveling at high speeds.

WFAA reported that both the Lamborghini and the Corvette's six occupants fled the scene, and marijuana was discovered inside both vehicles.

Furthermore, WFAA claimed that police also discovered credit cards, a check for $16,500, a diamond chain, and a Chiefs playbook.

Knox, who SMU suspended earlier on Thursday, is charged with the same offenses as Rice.

SMU said in a statement that they take these allegations seriously. It added that federal student privacy laws prevent the University from discussing details of student disciplinary proceedings.

Rice released a statement during the investigation into the crash, saying that he took full responsibility for his part in this matter.
On Thursday, an Argentine court placed the blame on 'terrorist state' Iran over three decades after deadly attacks in Buenos Aires that targeted Israel's embassy and a Jewish center.

According to court records cited by media outlets, the court also named the Argentina Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish center attack the bloodiest in Argentina's history, a "crime against humanity."

The court said that it is linked to the Iran-backed Shiite movement Hezbollah.

Carlos Mahiques, one of the three judges who issued the sentence, said to Radio Con Vos that Hezbollah carried out an operation that responded to a political, ideological, and revolutionary design under the mandate of a government of a State, referring to Iran.

A bombing on the Israeli embassy in 1992 claimed 29 lives. Two years later, the AMIA Jewish center was hit by a truck loaded with explosives and detonated, leaving 85 dead and 300 injured.

The 1994 attack has never been officially claimed or solved. However, Argentina and Israel have long suspected Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah group carried it out at Iran's demand.

Prosecutors accused top Iranian authorities of ordering the attack. Tehran has denied any participation.

Argentina has the largest Jewish community in Latin America, with almost 300,000 people. It is also home to immigrant communities from the Middle East, including Syria and Lebanon.

The justices declared on Thursday that the AMIA attack included a crime against humanity and held Hezbollah members, other Iranian authorities, and the country's then-president Ali Akbar Hashemi Bahramaie Rafsanjani responsible.

Jorge Knoblovits, president of the Delegation of Israelite Associations of Argentina (DAIA), praised the decision. He told Radio Mitre that the decision was very important because it enabled the victims to go to the International Criminal Court.

Carlos Menem, the former president of Argentina who passed away in 2021 and was in office for both attacks, was tried for allegedly covering up the AMIA bombing but was found not guilty.
Israel is preparing for an Iranian attack in the next two days, and the U.S. is restricting travel by its diplomatic personnel in Israel, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday.

The attack on southern or northern Israel is expected as early as Friday or Saturday, a source familiar with the situation told the newspaper. A person briefed by the Iranian leadership, however, told the Journal that though such plans are being discussed in Tehran, a final decision has not yet been made.

The U.S. embassy, meanwhile, said staff had been told not to travel outside the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or Beersheba areas "out of an abundance of caution," the BBC reported.

President Biden noted on Wednesday that Iran was threatening to launch a "significant attack," and he vowed to offer "ironclad" support to Israel.

Iran, which is backing Hamas fighters in the Israeli conflict, has vowed to retaliate against Israel, blaming the country for a strike on its consulate in Syria 11 days ago, killing 13 people, though Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government was ready to meet any challenge, and warned that Israel would harm any country that caused it harm.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
So they've got that going for them.

Americans believe both Joe Biden and Donald Trump did more harm than good during their presidencies on key issues facing the nation, and few adults say they personally benefited from either of the last two adminsitrations, a poll released Friday reveals.

More than half of the respondents say Biden hurt the country on issues related to the cost of living (58%) and immigration and border security (56%), according to the Associated Press-NORC poll.

Nearly half (47%) say Biden has hurt relations with other countries.

As for the former president, Americans say his administration had a negative impact on voting rights (46%), abortion laws (47%), climate change (46%) and relations with foreign countries (47%).

But about a third say Trump's policies did more to help them when he was president compared to a quarter of Americans who say that about the Biden administration. About 30% say they did not benefit from either White House.

"Considering the price of gas, the price of groceries, the economy - I did very well during those four years," Christina Elliott, 60, a Republican from Texas, told the Associated Press about the Trump years. "I didn't have to worry about filling up my tank or losing half of my paycheck to the grocery store."

Elliott faulted the former president for his handling of abortion, but chalked it up to Trump's campaign rhetoric.

"He just needs to learn how to be tactful and shut his mouth," she said. "But other than that, like I said, I did very well during the Trump years," she added.

Both Biden and Trump saw the best responses on job creation, at 36% and 47% respectively.

The president got bad marks even from Democrats on immigration (31%) and the cost of living (34%), while few Republicans say Trump had a negative effect on the issues surveyed.

Only 15% say Trump hurt relations with other countries, voting rights and abortion laws.

Catherine Scott, a Republican, said she worries about Trump's handling of foreign policy.

"I understand that some people really admire Trump's ability to be a spitfire and just say whatever is at the top of his mind," Scott, 30, who recently moved to New York from Florida, told the AP.

Referring to his complimentary comments about Russian President Vladimir Putin, Scott said: "I don't think he has all the foresight to understand that might not always be the thing to do."

The poll surveyed 1,204 adults between April 4-8. It has a plus/minus 3.9 percentage points margin of error.
UC Berkeley Law School Dean Erwin Chemerinsky is shown at his home in Oakland in 2021. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

UC Berkeley Law School Dean Erwin Chemerinsky is a scholar on constitutional law issues such as the First Amendment guarantee of free speech. Could he have violated that right when he and his wife, law professor Catherine Fisk, ordered a Palestinian protester to leave a dinner the couple was hosting for law students?

No, says Chemerinsky. There is no First Amendment right to go into my house or yours and disturb a dinner, even if it is for students. The First Amendment does not apply on private property, he told the Chronicle in an email.

But that may not be true in this case, said Camilo Perez-Bustillo, executive director of the Bay Area chapter of the National Lawyers Guild.

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Were talking about UC Berkeley, a state institution, publicly funded, where hes dean, and an event conducted in his official capacity for graduating members of the third-year class, he told the Chronicle. The protesting student, Perez-Bustillo said, was making an expression of dissent, at the core of free speech.

The incident and the questions it has raised underscore how the war in Gaza has sowed division and debate in virtually every corner of public life.

Malak Afaneh, leader of Berkeley Law Students for Justice in Palestine and one of 60 students at the dinner Tuesday evening, stood in the couples backyard to denounce the universitys investments in manufacturers of weapons for Israel. According to the Bay Area Palestine Youth Movement, she had just spoken Arabic words meaning peace and blessings to you when Fisk grabbed her and tried to take away the microphone she was holding.

Chemerinsky said he and Fisk then told Afaneh to leave, and about 10 other students left with her. She has reportedly discussed plans to file suit, and if she does, the case could test the U.S. Supreme Courts newly drawn boundary lines between government officials private and public conduct.

The court ruled last month on suits against local officials in San Diego County and Michigan who had blocked users from their Facebook and Twitter accounts after critical postings. The issue in both cases, and in a pending lawsuit against San Francisco Supervisor Dean Preston for blocking a conservative journalist from his social media account after a series of attacks, is whether the account-holders were acting as public officials or as private citizens.

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In the courts unanimous ruling, Justice Amy Barrett said an office-holder speaks on behalf of the government, and therefore must respect freedom of speech, when the official possessed actual authority to speak on the (governments) behalf, and purported to exercise that authority when he spoke on social media.

Chemerinsky and Fisk were speaking in person, in their private home, in what Chemerinsky described as a private event for students who were about to graduate from the school where both of them taught. In a posting on his Original Jurisdiction legal blog, commentator David Lat agreed with the dean that the dinner was a private function and said Chemerinsky would have grounds to discipline the protesting students.

Disrupting a university event and remaining on private property after being asked to leave  obviously violate UC Berkeley rules and local laws, Lat wrote.You dont need to be an authority on the First Amendment  to know that a private home is not a public forum.

Stanford Law School professor Jud Campbell, who teaches First Amendment law, agreed. Unless the hosts invited students to make speeches, a First Amendment claim would be entirely frivolous, he told the Chronicle. The Constitution doesnt give anybody the right to commandeer a dinner party.

And even if it was considered a government-sponsored dinner, no one would have a First Amendment right to use a microphone to interfere with the general purpose of the event, said Geoffrey Stone, a University of Chicago law professor and First Amendment scholar.

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But Perez-Bustillo of the National Lawyers Guild said the dinner was, at least arguably, an official event, organized by the dean as part of or closely related to his functions as dean, for his students.

And he said Chemerinsky could not have been surprised when the Palestinian student spoke out  as the dean said afterward, The students responsible for this had the leaders of our student government tell me that if we did not cancel the dinners, they would protest at them. Chemerinsky said in a statement Wednesday he replied that he would not change plans for the dinner and assumed that any protest would not be disruptive.

Zahra Billoo, Bay Area executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which is advising the protesting student, accused Chemerinsky of trying to silence protests of the universitys financial support of Israels military operations on Gaza.

It is reprehensible for UC Berkeley to claim to champion free speech while its leaders commit such deplorable acts of physical censorship, Billoo said in a statement.
Police in Tacoma, Washington, didn't hesitate for an instant when they got a call earlier this week that a 15-year-old girl was struggling to stay afloat in the frigid waters of local Wapato Lake.

And it was all captured in a dramatic video.

Three officers raced to the scene from a nearby parking lot and forged into the freezing water. One of them, Officer Steve O'Neal, plunged in, fully clothed, to swim some 30 feet into the lake to pull the girl to safety on shore. O'Neal said the teen wasn't moving when he reached her, and her head was barely above the water.

"Every single one of us just stopped what we were doing and ran to the lake," O'Neal later told Seattle's KIRO-TV.

"We get trained to just act. Our who goal is to save lives and protect lives," added O'Neal, who noted it was his first water rescue.

Details of how the teene came to be in the water were not released by police. She was rushed to a local hospital following the rescue, where he was listed in stable condition. Her dad called the police department to thank the officers, KIRO reported.

"Going in there was just instinct and I know that anyone in our department would have done the same," said O'Neal. "I think it's obviously being a parent and being a police officer. There's no hesitation. You just protect and you save."
President Joe Biden on Friday said he is canceling $7.4 billion in student loans for about 277,000 borrowers as part of a new repayment plan, according to the White House and reports.

The latest round of cancellations by the administration brings the amount of debt forgiven to $153 billion for 4.3 million Americans, the White House said.

"From day one of my Administration, I promised to fight to ensure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity," Biden said in a statement, the Associated Press reported. "I will never stop working to cancel student debt - no matter how many times Republican elected officials try to stop us."

More than 206,000 borrowers enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan that adjusts monthly loan payments to earnings and family size will have their debt canceled, the Washington Post reported.

Those in the plan who borrowed less than $12,000 are eligible to have their debt canceled after 10 years of payments, compared to the traditional 20 to 25 years in other plans, the report said.

Another 65,700 borrowers enrolled in the older income-driven repayment plans who have been repaying their loans for as much as 25 years will have their debt forgiven through a temporary waiver, the Washington Post reported.

The last 4,600 will have their debt canceled through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said the debt cancellation will provide much needed relief to millions of Americans.

"Now they have some money back in their pockets, instead of a bill that too often competed with basic needs like groceries and health care," he said, the AP reported.
A 16-year-old boy was arrested for brutally punching a 68-year-old woman, knocking her down the steps of a church in New York City, then stealing her purse before fleeing in her car, according to reports and the NYPD.

The woman, identified as Irene Tahliambouris, who is still recovering from her injuries, was walking up the steps of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Queens on Sunday when video shows the suspect sprinting up the stairs ahead of her.

He then slugged Tahliambouris, sending her tumbling backward down the flight of outdoor, concrete stairs onto the sidewalk.

The teen then rifled through the grandmother's pockets, snatched $300, a cell phone, credit cards and car keys from the woman's purse, according to CBS News.

He then fled in her 2006 Nissan Altima.

WANTED for ROBBERY: On 4/7/24 at 8:20 AM, at 84-35 152 Street in Queens, the suspect punched a 68-year-old female victim, causing her to fall down a flight of stairs, then removed her purse & fled in the victim's vehicle.



Have info? DM @NYPDTips,

or call them at 800-577-TIPS pic.twitter.com/KYVB64lUXq  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) April 8, 2024

The teen was arrested Thursday evening and charged with robbery, assault, grand larceny and criminal possession of stolen property, the report said.

His name was not released because he is a juvenile.

Tahliambouris remains in the hospital with a fractured skull and a black eye, her family told the New York Daily News.

"She's still recovering. Yesterday she started recognizing us," Daniel Coffaro Hill told the publication on Thursday. "She was brushing her hair today, really slow, but she's in her right mind. She knows who we are now."

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Tahliambouris and has raised nearly $8,000 for her by Friday morning.

Her son Freddy on the page described his mother as "always happy and in good spirits" who would "always do anything she could to help anyone at all times."

"We can only imagine the pain that she experiencing being knocked of the stairs of the church hitting the back of her head on the concrete while this viscous person with no consideration to life attacks her and taking all her belongings and car," he wrote on the page.
President Joe Biden's canceling of billions of dollars in student loan debt could wipe the slate clean for millions of borrowers by November and play a key role in the 2024 presidential election, according to a report.

Issues "present a sharp contrast between Democrats and Republicans are more likely to impact the election, especially if the issues affect voter turnout for one party over the other," higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz told CNBC on Wednesday, noting that student loan relief is among them.

He pointed out that the rule-changing process can take time, but said the Education Department could publish the final rule in the Federal Register this summer.

"So they could easily implement it before the election," he said, cautioning that legal challenges could hamper the timeline.

Kantrowitz's comments came before the Biden administration announced its latest round of debt cancellations on Friday.

The White House announced it was canceling $7.4 billion in debt for more than 270,000 borrowers through a new repayment plan.

The plan has already met with legal conflict.

"See you in court," Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey posted on X Friday.

Bailey is one of the Republican attorneys general challenging the Biden administration's new plan. Missouri was among seven states that filed a federal lawsuit on Tuesday seeking to block Biden's loan relief proposal, the Associated Press reported.

The White House said the administration has now forgiven $153 billion in student debt for 4.3 million Americans.

"It seems like we're having a steady drum beat of announces of loan forgiveness," Kantrowitz told HNGN on Friday.

If the Supreme Court intervenes again, it could block the new rules based on the 'major questions doctrine', which stipulates 'that anything of vast economic and political significance had to be explicitly approved by Congress,' he said.

The Administrative Procedure Act could also come into play.

"If something is arbitrary or capricious it can be blocked by the courts. There, even if they are following normal procedures for issuing new regulations, some things are clearly violating the Administrative Procedure Act," Kantrowitz said.

Biden promised during the 2020 presidential campaign to wipe out student debt, but his $400 billion loan cancellation plan was blocked by the Supreme Court last June after justices found it unconstitutional.

The president then directed the Department of Education to reexamine its authority to forgive student debt and modify existing loan relief programs to survive legal challenges.

Biden previewed his Plan B for loan forgiveness in Madison, Wis., on Monday which targets specific groups of borrowers, and blamed the stymied relief on the high court and Republicans.

"Tens of millions of people's debt was literally about to get canceled, but then some of my Republican friends, elected officials, and special interests sued us, and the Supreme Court blocked us," the president said. "But that didn't stop us."
James Crumbley, the father of Michigan school shooter Ethan Crumbley, vowed to "go on a rampage" against the prosecutor in his case following his at least 10-year prison stint, according to jailhouse phone calls.

Earlier this week, James and his wife Jenner Crumbley were both sentenced to 10-15 years behind bars after they were convicted of involuntary manslaughter for the 2021 Oxford High School shooting perpetrated by their then-15-year-old son, Ethan Crumbley, HNGN previously reported.

They were the first parents to be convicted in a U.S. mass school shooting in the case prosecuted by Oakland County Prosecuting Attorney Karen McDonald.

"You know, I kind of feel like a martyr," James said in a recorded jailhouse phone call in January, WDIV-TV reported, citing court documents. "It's (expletive) if they allow this stupid (expletive) to do to us. What she's trying to do, based on nothing. Here's the thing: she never did any type of investigation before they charged us."

"They're trying to blame it all on us," he continued. "They're trying to say none of it should have happened because of you. It's just too (expletive) ridiculous. It wasn't us, it was the (expletive) school."

"I am f****** on a rampage, Karen. Yes, Karen McDonald. Your a** is going down and you better be f****** scared," James said, CBS News reported, according to the documents.

"Go ahead and report this call," he threatened. "Send it to Karen McDonald, tell her how James Crumbley is going to (expletive) take her down; she will not have a law license when I'm done with her."

It's unclear who James was speaking to, however James' defense attorney Mariell Lehman said her client was just "venting" in those calls.

"In reviewing the phone calls which are alleged to contain threats of physical harm, it is clear that Mr. Crumbley is venting to loved ones about his frustrations related to the lack of investigation done by the prosecution prior to authorizing charges against him and his wife which resulted in his more than two-year incarceration up to this point. He does not threaten physical harm to Karen McDonald, instead, the calls are clear that he wants to ensure that she does not do to other people what she had done in this case  authorizing charges before an investigation could be conducted," Lehman said in court documents, according to the outlet.

Ethan, now 17, previously pleaded guilty to four counts of first-degree murder for the slayings of 16-year-old Tate Myre, 16-year-old Justin Shilling, 14-year-old Hana St. Juliana, and 17-year-old Madsyn Baldwin. He is currently serving a life sentence.
The California Highway Patrol this week arrested four suspects and recovered some $300,000 worth of stolen Lego sets connected to an organized retail theft operation, authorities said.

The California Highway Patrol's Organized Retail Crime Taskforce executed search warrants at four locations on Tuesday as part of their investigation into an illegal fencing operation, in which thieves resell stolen goods. A fence is an individual or group who buys stolen goods, then passes them off as legitimate at other retailers or online marketplaces.

Four people were arrested across Los Angeles and Orange counties: 44-year-old Jeremy Johnson, 39-year-old Marta Hardt, 47-year-old Chung-Pei Yu and 35-year-old Shen Li. All four were charged with organized retail theft, grand theft and conspiracy to commit a crime, the CHP said in a news release.

The suspects allegedly stole goods from retailers throughout Southern California, including Target, Lowe's and Home Depot, and sold them to fences. The most abundant item law enforcement found during the raids were Lego sets, particularly those based on movies and video games, or featuring classic cars.

The victim retailers estimate their losses from the thefts at around $300,000, CHP said. Some Lego sets can retail for nearly $1,000.

A Lego Titanic retails for $679.99, while a Lego Millennium Falcon from the "Star Wars" movies goes for nearly $900.

Buyers of the stolen Lego sets "may or may not be aware that the products they are purchasing were stolen as part of an organized retail crime operation," CHP said

-With reporting from TMX
A 23-year-old Sacramento State University student has gone missing in the Los Angeles area after some puzzling phone calls were made to her family.

Noelle Lynch, who lives in Northern California with her family, went to Southern California on April 1, and then vanished without a trace. A search effort is now underway with the support of the Los Angeles Police Department.

Mark Lynch, Noelle's father, said in an interview that he last saw Noelle that same day in what he described as a 'difficult state of mind'.

"All that matters is trying to get her back," he told SFGATE, urging the community to join in the search efforts.

"We didn't know where she was going," Mark said, "and the next thing we knew, she was in an accident in Los Angeles at 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Tuesday, April 2."

There were no known injuries, but Noelle's vehicle sustained significant damage. Her mother, upon learning of the car crash, arranged a hotel room, according to teh dad, near LAX airport, hoping to meet her daughter.

However, Noelle's mom received a call from her daughter from "a strange person's phone" around noon on April 3. Mark disclosed that the call was quite short and that Noelle was "mostly not making sense."

Later that same day, Noelle was reported to have walked away from an apartment building on the 900 block of East Redondo Boulevard in Inglewood later that day, according to the LAPD

Noelle's phone was then discovered at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at LAX, but, Mark Lynch said, there is no definitive evidence suggesting she boarded a flight.

"She always calls," he said. "This is very out of character. She has had a tough time but she has always called."

Lynch said that he has not ruled out foul play as he doesn't think that she is "sitting in a coffee shop in Marina del Rey."

Noelle is 5-foot-8, approximately 125 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes, according to the LAPD.

She was last seen wearing a dark-colored T-shirt, green sweatpants adorned with a military logo, and white sneakers.

Anyone with any information is urged to call LAPD's missing persons department at 213-996-1800.
As the world is roiled by war in Ukraine and Gaza, Britain's Royal Navy announced Friday the development of a powerful new laser weapon right out of "Star Wars" that will shoot down missiles, drones and other enemy aircraft from ships.

The futuristic DragonFire laser will be installed on British warships by 2027, said a statement from the Navy. The date originally planned had been 2032.

The announcment comes as the need for such weapons grows "to counter drone and missile threats like those by the Houthi rebels," who have been firing on commercial ships in the Red Sea in response to Israel's war on Gaza.

A burst of a high-intensity beam from DragonFire costs no more than 10 pounds, the equivalent of $12.50, "yet can engage targets  drones, missiles, aircraft  at the speed of light by concentrating it on a target," the Navy noted.

A powerful laser weapon will be added to the #RoyalNavys arsenal...



The cutting-edge DragonFire laser will be installed on a warship by 2027, adding to an already potent array of air defence weapons countering growing drone and missile threats.



 https://t.co/I29Q1mjX4G pic.twitter.com/101DcgTsYw  Royal Navy (@RoyalNavy) April 12, 2024

Captain Matt Ryder, who's in charge of new weapons as head of Above Water Battlespace in the Royal Navy's Develop Directorate, called the laser system "cutting edge" and highly "relevant," adding that there's a need to "accelerate it into service on board our ships at the earliest opportunity."


A Washington state elementary school teacher was found brutally murdered inside her home, and police say her husband's body is likely to turn up next.



Caitlin Follstad, 41, was found Tuesday afternoon inside her home with multiple stab wounds, according to the Anacortes Police Department, adding that her father-in-law, who was not named, made the 911 call.



The father in law also told authorities that his son and Caitlin's husband, also 41, was suicidal and driving towards the Deception Pass Bridge.



Washington State Troopers located the husband's car at the center of that bridge later that day, according to police. APD named the husband as a person of interest in the case Tuesday evening.



Earlier that day, police had responded to a call for a body in the water in the vicinity of the bridge, and while no body has yet to be discovered, police believe that the husband, identified as Kevin Follstad by Law & Crime, committed suicide on that bridge.

"Based on the circumstances surrounding the case, what has happened, where the vehicle was discovered, and the unknown nature of his whereabouts, we do believe that's what happened," Brent Lindquist with the APD told KOMO.



Caitlin Follstad taught fifth grade in Anacortes School District, which said that Caitlin Follstad was beloved and will be missed.

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic loss of Caitlin Follstad, a cherished member of the Island View Elementary community," the district said. "Her passion for education led her to Island View Elementary, where she served as a teacher, mentor, and friend. The Anacortes School District extends its sympathies to Caitlin's family, friends, students, and colleagues during this difficult time."

"The Anacortes School District extends its sympathies to Caitlin's family, friends, students, and colleagues during this difficult time," the school district continued.
Seeking to woo business from San Francisco travelers, Oakland is adding "San Francisico" to the name of its airport  which is bound to get a rise out of its sister city.

Oakland's facility will be called San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport following unanimous approval Thursday by Port of Oakland commissioners. The airport's three-letter aviation code, OAK, will remain the same. But that's not satisfying San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu vowed early this week that he would sue to block the Oakland airport name change.

He argued in a letter to the Board of Port Commissioners that it would infringe on the trademark of San Francisco International Airport and confuse travelers  especially those traveling from abroad.

Mayor London Breed also criticized Oakland's move, saying the city should try to improve its airport instead of lifting San Francisco's name.

Though the change could be confusing for travelers from other countries, many San Franciscans sometimes use the Oakland airport because it may offer cheaper or more convenient schedules, based on travel plans

"This is to boost Oakland," Danny Wan, executive director of the port of Oakland, said at Thursday's meeting, reported the San Francisco Standard. "This is to bring more business to Oakland."

The name change must go through a second reading before the commissioners before it's officially implemented, which is expected to happen.
On Friday, Google announced it was testing removing links to California news websites from some people's search results. The search giant said it was preparing in case the Legislature passed a bill requiring it to pay media companies a fee for linking to their content. Jeff Chiu/Associated Press

SACRAMENTO  Google announced Friday that it is removing links to California news websites for some Californians in response to a state bill that would force the search engine to pay news companies for their content.

Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire, D-Geyserville, called the move an abuse of power that demonstrates extraordinary hubris.

This is a dangerous threat by Google that not only sets a terrible precedent here in America, but puts public safety at risk for Californians who depend on the news to keep us informed of life threatening emergencies and local public safety incidents, he wrote in a statement. The legislative process will not be blunted by this bullying.

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The California Journalism Preservation Act, or CJPA, would make tech giants like Facebook, Google and Microsoft pay news organizations a journalism usage fee. The fees would be calculated as a percentage of ad revenue and set based on an arbitration agreement between news publishers and large digital platforms. The bill would require news organizations to spend at least 70% of the revenue to pay journalists.

The legislation would cost tech platforms an unknown but potentially significant amount of money, Jaffer Zaidi, Googles vice president of global news partnerships, wrote in a Friday blog post.

The uncapped financial exposure created by CJPA would be unworkable, he wrote. If enacted, CJPA in its current form would create a level of business uncertainty that no company could accept.

In response, Google has started to remove links to California news websites for a small percentage of California users. The short-term test will let Google assess how the proposal might affect the company if it becomes law, Zaidi wrote.

Zaidi also wrote that Google was pausing further investments in the California news ecosystem because of the bill. Brianna Duff, a spokesperson for the company, declined to answer questions about how much Google currently spends on California news and which news organizations receive funding from the company.

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Supporters of the bill argue that tech platforms benefit financially from news articles posted to their websites, which help them attract and retain visitors. The platforms are not paying the journalists who produce the content, however, effectively starving news organizations of advertising revenue generated by their own work.

The San Francisco Chronicle is among the news organizations that support the bill, along with the California Broadcasters Association, the California News Publishers Association, many other trade and labor organizations representing journalists and individual news organizations.

Google and other companies targeted by the bill launched an aggressive opposition campaign last year. A tech-financed group launched a campaign to kill the bill by pointing out that it would help fund Fox News, a bitter pill in the Democrat-dominated California Legislature. Facebooks parent company, Meta, threatened to pull news from its platforms if the measure passed.

The bills author, Assembly Member Buffy Wicks, called Metas threat a scare tactic.

The measure, AB886, passed the Assembly but stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee amid intense opposition from the tech companies. Erin Ivie, a spokesperson for Wicks, said earlier this year that the bill is still a top priority for the Oakland Democrat.

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Getting this policy right is more important than getting it quick, Wicks said in a statement at the time. My priority is making sure this bill does exactly, and only, what it intends: to support our free press and the democracy sustained by it, to make sure publications get paid what they are owed, and to hold our nations largest and wealthiest tech companies accountable for repurposing content thats not theirs.

Wicks and Sen. Tom Umberg, the Santa Ana Democrat who chairs the committee, have not yet announced changes to the bill. It could become law if senators pass it ahead of summer deadlines.

The effect the bill would have on news publishers and tech platforms has emerged as a major point of contention. Some studies, including one released last month by the University of Houston, say tech platforms have made huge profits from news content posted to or accessed from their platforms and owe billions to news publishers.
The U.S. is moving extra defense "assets" into place in the Mideast before an expected attack on Israel by Iran, according to officials.

"We are moving additional assets to the region to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for U.S. forces," said a U.S.defense official in Washington, Barron's and other media reported.

The U.S. embassy said earlier that staff had been told not to travel outside the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or Beersheba areas "out of an abundance of caution."

Iran is expected to launch an attack on Israel as soon as Friday night or Saturday in retaliation for an attack on Syria 11 days ago that killed 13 people. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the assault on Syria.

President Biden noted on Wednesday that Iran was threatening to launch a "significant attack," and he vowed to offer "ironclad" support to Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government was ready to meet any challenge, and warned that Israel would harm any country that caused it harm.
A celebrity doctor who frequently appeared on British talk shows exchanged Botox for sex, according to a medical tribunal.

Dr. Oluwafemi "Tijion" Esho "engaged in an improper emotional relationship with Patient A, behaved inappropriately toward her," and was motivated by sex while treating her at his clinic in Newcastle, England, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service determined, earlier this week

The tribunal will determine his fitness to practice at a later date.

During the investigation, Esho, 42, confessed he exchanged "inappropriate" and sexually explicit messages with the victim  an OnlyFans and webcam model  on Instagram, but denied any physical contact, according to the BBC. However, the tribunal determined Esho had several sexual encounters with her at his clinic in 2021 in exchange for free Botox, the outlet reported.

The founder of the Esho Clinic said he was "disappointed" with the tribunal's decision.

In response to the ruling, Esho issued a statement on Facebook.

"Throughout the hearing and investigation, with which I have cooperated fully, I stressed that I deeply regretted the mistakes which I made in engaging in communications with Patient A, and I admitted to the charges which related to those serious errors of judgment."

"I am truly sorry for those actions, and apologize to everyone I let down as a result," he said.

"However, I have always been clear that whilst my conduct in communicating with Patient A was wrong, I repeat categorically that it never crossed over into any physical sexual contact."

He added, "My life's work has been and will remain focused on helping people. I remain dedicated fully to this purpose."

Esho frequently provided his medical opinion regarding cosmetic surgery on BBC's Morning Live, ITV's This Morning, and E4's Body Fixers, and previously treated several celebrity clients.

He also has clinics in Wimbledon and Liverpool.
Saori Okawa delivers groceries to an Instacart customer in San Francisco in 2021. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Proposition 22, the 2020 ballot initiative sponsored by Uber and Lyft that classifies their drivers as contractors rather than employees, is drawing support from unlikely sources as it awaits a verdict on its fate from the California Supreme Court.

In one recent filing, advocates for racial minorities, including the NAACPs California chapter and local branches of the National Action Network founded by the Rev. Al Sharpton, said Prop. 22 provides valuable income-earning opportunities for workers of color, and  valuable transportation, food, and delivery services to communities of color.

In a filing that asked the court to uphold the measure, lawyers for the groups said that by defining the drivers as independent contractors, Prop. 22 gives workers the freedom to choose when, where, and how to work.

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Another usual ally of liberal causes is David Carrillo, executive director of the California Constitution Center at UC Berkeley Law School. He told the justices that Prop. 22 was a critical test of Californians right to make their own laws.

All political power resides in Californias people, and the initiative empowers the voters to override the Legislature on any public policy matter, Carrillo and Stephen Duvernay, a researcher at the Constitution Center, said in their filing supporting Prop. 22.

The ballot measure was opposed by many members of the Democratic-controlled Legislature, which passed a law in 2019 to classify the drivers as employees. Prop. 22, if upheld, would override that law for app-based drivers.

Unions representing 2.3 million workers in California, joined by the Asian Law Caucus and the California Immigrant Policy Center, told the court that Prop. 22 maintains a second-tier workforce comprised predominantly of workers of color.

But the filings from an array of individuals and groups, more than 20 so far, serve as a reminder of the ballot measures appeal across the usual ideological lines and the uncertainty of the outcome in a court with six Democratic appointees among its seven justices.

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Among the groups that endorsed Prop. 22 in 2020 was the California NAACP, whose elected president since 1999 has been Alice Huffman. Records obtained by CalMatters before the 2020 election showed that Huffmans private political consulting firm had received $1.2 million from sponsors of ballot measures that she or the NAACP had endorsed, including $85,000 from Yes on 22.

Classifying drivers as independent contractors rather than employees means they are not entitled by law to minimum wages, overtime, meal and rest breaks, sick leave, workers compensation and other benefits, including repayment for work expenses such as auto fuel and repairs. In 2018, the state Supreme Court ruled unanimously that companies must prove workers are running their own businesses in order to treat them as contractors.

In 2019, the Legislature passed AB5, which classified the drivers as employees. But Uber, Lyft and food-delivery companies like DoorDash and Instacart then spent more than $200 million on Prop. 22, which exempted their 1.4 million California drivers from AB5 and defined them as contractors. The initiative was approved by 59% of the states voters in November 2020.

The legal battle began in Alameda County, where Superior Court Judge Frank Roesch ruled in 2021 that the measure violated a provision of the state Constitution that established workers compensation for ill and injured workers and authorized the Legislature to regulate it.

A state appeals court disagreed in March 2023, but the state Supreme Court set that ruling aside in June when it granted unions request to review the case. The court has not yet scheduled a hearing. The companies, meanwhile, have said they are continuing to treat their drivers as contractors while the case proceeds.

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A central issue is whether Prop. 22, drafted as a statute rather than a constitutional amendment, conflicts with the California Constitution by overriding the Legislatures authority to grant workers compensation benefits to the drivers. Carrillo, of the California Constitution Center, argued that the voters who authorized workers compensation have a right to change it.

The 1911 ballot measure that added workers compensation to the state Constitution was intended only to clarify that the Legislature could do certain things, not to bar the electorate from taking action on the same subject in a future ballot measure, Carrillo wrote in his court filing. He said it was nonsensical to assume that political progressives in California, who established the initiative system to give people a voice in lawmaking, would exempt workers compensation from future initiatives.

And on this issue, he contended, the 1911 measure was meant to counteract the U.S. Supreme Courts notorious 1905 ruling in Lochner v. New York, which found that the state was violating the freedom of contract of bakers who worked in New York by limiting their work hours to 10 in a day, or 60 in a week.

The Supreme Court and lower courts relied on the Lochner decision for the next 30 years to overturn state minimum-wage laws and other workplace benefits. By placing workers compensation in the state Constitution, Carrillo argued, Californians were seeking only to ensure that federal courts could not use Lochner to abolish those benefits, and not to prevent voters from redefining eligibility in a future initiative.

That was disputed by officials in San Francisco, joined by the cities of Oakland and San Diego and by Santa Clara County.

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The California Constitution explicitly delegates authority over workers compensation to the Legislature, Matthew Goldberg, chief labor protection attorney in San Francisco City Attorney David Chius office, wrote in a court filing. Chiu was an Assembly member in 2019 and voted for AB5, the law from which Prop. 22 exempts app-based drivers.

Proposition 22 impermissibly overrides that authority, Goldberg argued, and it strips a centurys worth of employment protections  covering compensation (e.g., minimum wages, overtime pay, and expense reimbursements), meal and rest periods, sick leave and health benefits, safety and health protections, anti-retaliation, unemployment insurance, disability insurance, paid family leave, and workers compensation  from an entire class of workers.

And if Prop. 22 is upheld, lawyers for the California Labor Federation told the court, nothing stands in the way of other corporate employers in California following the path that Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash have mapped out.

Meanwhile, the Labor Department under President Joe Biden has declared regulations that could classify most or all of the drivers as employees rather than contractors under federal law, entitling them at least to federal minimum wages  $7.25 an hour, compared with $16 in California.

The regulations, based on such factors as how much control the hiring company has over the work, were announced in January and are being challenged in court by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and an organization that includes Uber and Lyft.

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The former San Francisco headquarters of Charles Schwab at 211 Main St. is the latest downtown building to extend its mortgage deadline. Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle 2019

A $195 million mortgage for Charles Schwabs former downtown San Francisco headquarters building was the latest office loan to be sent into special servicing after its due date passed this week  but its landlord said it has negotiated terms to extend the deadline tied to the 17-story office tower.

The involvement of a special servicer  an entity that acts on behalf of a buildings lender  can spell trouble for real estate owners who fall behind on payments or other obligations dictated by their loan agreements. The transfer to special servicing can be a first step in foreclosure proceedings, but Blackstone Group said there is no risk of foreclosure and the extension has been agreed to.

This is a procedural step needed to effectuate a change to the term of the loan, which requires approval from the special servicer, a representative of Blackstone Group said, adding that the 417,000-square-foot property at 211 Main St. is 100% leased to a high-quality, credit-worthy tenant through 2028.

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That tenant is Charles Schwab, which remains tied to the building per its lease agreement with Blackstone despite having moved its headquarters to the Dallas area in 2019. The financial services company has been steadily shrinking its footprint in San Francisco in recent years, and has largely moved out of 211 Main, where it now occupies just six floors.

The rest has been listed as available for sublease. If a subtenant is not found, Charles Schwab remains legally on the hook to pay rent through the remainder of the lease term, which ends in April 2028.

While Blackstone has now managed to work out a deal with its lender that will allow it to remain in possession of the building, it has previously attempted to sell 211 Main in 2021 for roughly $400 million, but was unable to secure a buyer. A sales brochure published at the time indicated that rents in the building were roughly 25% below market rate.

It is unclear how much time Blackstone has been granted to pay off its debt, and whether the landlord will be required to make a payment in exchange for the extension.

The company did not disclose whether it is still planning to ultimately sell the property in order to recoup some of its equity.

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Blackstone acquired the property in 2017 from then-owner CIM Group for approximately $313 million, or $750 a square foot. The purchase was made shortly after Charles Schwab inked a lease renewal for the entire building.

Earlier this year, Blackstone also secured an extension for a massive $975 million loan for nearby One Market Plaza, one of San Franciscos largest office buildings, that was set to mature in February. Blackstone co-owns that property with Paramount Group.

A wave of commercial real estate debt maturities has swept the San Francisco market over the past year, and in some cases has resulted in owners with troubled loans losing once highly valuable properties to their lenders. Its added to the struggles that landlords are already facing in the wake of the pandemic and as a result of remote work, which has caused office vacancy in the city to skyrocket and rental rates to soften. More than one-third of San Franciscos offices sat vacant in the first quarter of the year.

The owners of San Franciscos largest mall, until recently known as the Westfield San Francisco Centre, surrendered the massive downtown property last year to their lenders. The owners of large downtown hotels, like Hiltons Parc 55 and the Hilton Union Square, as well as residential landlords have also been parted with properties over the past year.

While Blackstone is attempting to hash out a deal to keep its leased office tower at 211 Main, it recently sold off another office property in its portfolio  the three-building North Park office campus at the waterfront  that saw its value drop below the outstanding balance on the $150 million loan that Blackstone used to purchase it due to rising vacancy.

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At the start of the pandemic, Blackstone defaulted on a $245 million mortgage for its Club Quarters hotel in downtown, and indicated last year that it plans to surrender the 346-room property to its lender.
Sandos Hotels & Resorts, a leading all-inclusive hospitality brand, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Pujol as the company's new vice president of operations. Pujol brings with him decades of industry experience, which he will lend to the brand's ten major resorts in some of the world's most well-known beach destinations in Mexico.

Pujol began his hospitality career at the age of 25 as the resident manager for a hotel in Palma de Mallorca, showing early promise and a keen ability to produce exceptional results through thoughtful and creative innovation. Following his early days of success working for Marina Hotels in Spain, he was promoted within the company, becoming the general manager of two properties in Ibiza before a brief hiatus with the brand. He would return to Marina Hotels shortly after, becoming its director of operations, managing ten hotels that fell under his direct supervision.

In 2007, Pujol was offered the director of operations role for Sandos Hotels & Resorts, where he played an integral part in some of the company's most formative years. He was involved in the acquisitions of properties that are today known as Sandos Cancun, a 214-room resort in the city's iconic beachfront hotel zone, and Sandos Finisterra, the 265-key oceanfront 'lands end' hotel in Cabo San Lucas. He remained a valued team member until 2013, when he paused his time with Sandos to assume a position with Melia Hotels at their Paradisus Princesa del Mar property. A year later, he moved to Barcelo, where he worked with their Mexico resorts for five years, before joining the Villa Group as their Regional Director of Operations for their Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit holdings. Looking for a new adventure, Pujol accepted a position in Vietnam in 2022, before deciding he was ready to return home to Mexico where Sandos enthusiastically invited him back in an executive capacity.
Le Meridien Dallas, The Stoneleigh welcomes Erik Davenport as its new Director of Sales and Marketing. Davenport joins The Stoneleigh after leading sales and marketing teams at top hotels and resorts across Dallas-Fort Worth and the region.

A military brat who has lived many places, Davenport was excited to finally call DFW home. While pursuing his degree in Hospitality Management at the University of Arkansas, he earned his stripes outside the classroom at a beach resort where he rotated through every department to learn how a hotel operates.

Since then, Davenport's experience at top hotel properties throughout the south and southwest led him to seek out The Stoneleigh, which he says provides guests a "crafted experience that is timeless in an area of so much new." Asked to describe his favorite aspect of the hotel's surrounding Uptown community, Davenport insists the neighborhood is "thriving and growing the right way. It is an experience that you can only get in this area, nowhere else."

The new Director of Sales and Marketing will build on momentum The Stoneleigh's General Manager, Stacy Martin and her team have created as they celebrated the hotel's centennial year. A series of speakeasy pop-ups that turned staff members into de facto history teachers and tour guides proved so popular, the events will continue into this new chapter of the hotel's history . On select evenings evoking the Jazz Age, the special events give invited guests, armed with a secret password, access to the exclusive 11th floor where Stoneleigh employees offer insights into the hotel's storied past.
A graduate of the National University of Singapore, Audrey brings over 20 years of experience working as a trusted Human Resource and Talent Partner to blue chip multinational corporations in regional and global roles in Singapore, China, and Indonesia.

She most recently was the Regional Human Resources Director at Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy overseeing the Southeast Asia and Australia markets for watches and jewelry, notably setting up HR frameworks for new markets, building high performing teams, and the harmonisation and integration of payroll, benefits and HR systems in Southeast Asia.

Prior to this, Audrey was the first Regional Talent Acquisition Lead for Kimberly Clark where she built the regional team, and executive search capabilities, launched a new Applicant Tracking System as well as their employer branding activations. Previously she held HR leadership roles in Diageo, Johnson & Johnson and Unilever, after starting her career in Talent Acquisition with Robert Walters.

Outside of work, Audrey is a proud mother, and a certified Yoga instructor.
Mountain Travel Symposium is the largest and longest running annual gathering of mountain travel professionals in the world. More than 800 representatives from 35+ countries establish relationships, build their business, pursue professional development and create a stronger mountain community.

Mountain Travel Symposium is the largest and longest running annual gathering of mountain travel professionals in the world. More than 800 representatives from 35+ countries establish relationships, build their business, pursue professional development and create a stronger mountain community.

Reach your ideal client, build brand awareness, introduce new and improved products and-most importantly- create relationships with industry leaders. MTS is much more than a typical networking event. MTS is well-established as the premier global meeting place for the worldwide mountain travel industry where resort representatives meet in a single location with a wide range of mountain vacation suppliers, buyers and vendors from around the world.

MTS is headed to North Lake Tahoe, California, April 14-19, 2024. MTS will be held at the Everline Resort & Spa.

This event is organized by NORTHSTAR Travel Group
To unlock new areas of growth, hospitality entrepreneurs and managers around the world are launching new concepts that break with conventions. From a Japanese hotel that doubles as a fashion label to a Parisian Cafe that produces its own music, these concepts are blurring the lines between media, retail, and hospitality. At the same time, technology, consumer behaviors, and deregulation are also forcing hoteliers, restaurateurs, and service providers to review the fundamentals of their value proposition and go beyond their traditional role as a provider of "places to sleep and eat". This is a time of great opportunity for hospitality and F&B businesses, and this course will help you understand these opportunities and seize them with a confident hand, allowing you to create and implement successful new concepts for existing businesses or new ventures.

Why take this course ?

Design and develop a successful hospitality concept - from the strategic and creative level down to the day-to-day operations.

Understand how existing hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and private clubs can be turned around with a strong concept

Youri Sawerschel - Senior Lecturer

Youri Sawerschel is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Creative Supply, a creative consultancy present in Zurich and Paris. Solicited for his creative thinking skills, Youri has been involved with projects focused on creating, launching and managing brands in Europe, China and the Middle-East. He has worked with brands as diverse as Kempinski Hotels, UBS, EPFL and Mondelez. Youri is also the author of dozens of articles on the topics of brand strategy, storytelling and entrepreneurship and is a lecturer at ESSEC Business School in Paris, at EHL Hospitality Business School and at Geneva School of Business (HEG). Youri graduated from the Ecole des Arts Decoratifs in Geneva and holds a Bachelor from EHL Hospitality Business School.

This event is organized by EHL Graduate School
To mark the first ever US  Japan Tourism Year, and in celebration of Airbnbs mission to connect people from across the world through travel, Airbnb has pledged $1 million to fund a multi-year rural tourism exchange program between the US and Japan with an aim to strengthen economic opportunities through tourism in rural areas in both countries.

This announcement coincides with the Official Visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the US this week and supports Airbnbs commitment to promoting travel to lesser known destinations through tourism dispersal that contributes to visitor economies in more places.

The exchange program would bring two cohorts of 15-20 Japanese tourism and hospitality professionals to the US in 2024-2025 to collaborate with their American peers and study best practices in rural tourism through the State Departments flagship professional exchange, the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP). Through this tourism-related exchange, Japanese tourism professionals will learn from industry leaders in the US about the opportunities inherent in rural tourism. Japanese alumni of previous IVLP exchanges include four former Prime Ministers, and current members of Japans parliament.

In 2023, Airbnb guests traveled to more than 100,000 cities and towns across more than 200 countries and regions, making it the most dispersed year of travel ever on the platform.

In the US, nearly 600 cities and towns received their first Airbnb booking in 2023  and more than 80 percent of these were in non-urban places. In Japan, the number of cities and towns that welcomed their first guests in 2023 grew by almost 10 percent with the majority being in non-urban areas.

As part of the program, Japanese participants will stay in Airbnb listings around the US, enabling them to benefit from a cultural exchange by staying in local homes, building people-to-people ties with Hosts, and seeing the positive impact this type of tourism has on local economies in rural areas.

Japan is one of our most popular markets and the cornerstone of our international expansion efforts in Asia Pacific. As more Japanese guests embrace home sharing to explore beautiful remote and rural destinations, were excited by the opportunity to play a role in supporting the development of tourism across more parts of the country. Fostering connections between people through travel is a core value at Airbnb and this exchange program builds off that premise, with the aim of bringing tourism leaders together to share key learnings and insights. Jay Carney, Global Head of Policy and Communications, Airbnb

The U.S. Department of State is proud to partner with Airbnb. Thanks to this new partnership, we have the unique opportunity to strengthen our bilateral relationship, create cross-cultural connections, and expand economic opportunity to improve the lives and livelihoods of people in both rural America and rural Japan through tourism. Lee Satterfield, Assistant U.S. Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs

Source: Airbnb

Funding for this exchange program is part of a broader effort to support communities and revitalize tourism in Japan. In February, Airbnb.org helped house evacuees impacted by the Noto peninsula earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture, which built on a separate Memorandum of Understanding signed by Airbnb in November 2023 with Tokyos Sumida ward to provide temporary shelter to local residents displaced by natural disasters. In January the company provided an additional $250k in funding to a $1m contribution in 2023 to the Japanese Kominka Association, an organization committed to restoring and maintaining Japans traditional homes.

Note: The U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural leads the United States global efforts to engage individuals through academic, cultural, professional, sports, film, music, and youth exchanges, thereby promoting peace and increasing mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other nations. Through these people-to-people exchanges and programs, the Bureau supports broader U.S. foreign policy goals, including access to education, economic opportunity and equity, and societal inclusion.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 5 million hosts who have welcomed over 1.5 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

About Airbnb.org

Airbnb.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating temporary stays for people in times of crisis around the world. Airbnb.org operates independently and leverages Airbnb, Inc.'s technology, services, and other resources at no charge to carry out Airbnb.org's charitable purpose. The inspiration for Airbnb.org began in 2012 with a single host named Shell who opened up her home to people impacted by Hurricane Sandy. This sparked a movement and marked the beginning of a program that allows hosts on Airbnb to provide stays for people in times of need. Since then, the program has evolved to focus on emergency response and to help provide stays to evacuees, relief workers, refugees, asylum seekers, and frontline workers fighting the spread of COVID-19. Since then, hosts have offered to open up their homes and helped provide accommodations to 100,000 people in times of need. Airbnb.org is a separate and independent entity from Airbnb, Inc. Airbnb, Inc. does not charge service fees for Airbnb.org supported stays on its platform.

Airbnb Press

Airbnb Press Office

Airbnb

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When travellers choose a hotel, they are looking for more than just a place to stay; they want to have an exceptional experience.

Their criteria range from exceptional service to personalised details, unique amenities to seamless interactions.

Though intangible, the technology that sits behind a hotel operation has a significant impact on the quality of these interactions. Today's travellers are increasingly tech-savvy and expect nothing short of seamless, personalised interactions with hotels, long before they even set foot in the lobby and well after they check out. This reality presents both a unique set of challenges as well as exciting opportunities for hotels of all sizes, especially in this bustling and competitive marketplace.

The hospitality industry is particularly susceptible to the constant need of maintaining a modern, adaptable infrastructure to fulfil the ever-changing demands of guest, ensure operational efficiency, and remain at the forefront of technological innovations.

An integrated payments solution emerges not only as an option, but as an absolute necessity in the arsenal of modern hoteliers.

An integrated payment strategy entails combining several components of an hotel's infrastructure into one single system, including:

Property Management Systems

Self-service kiosks

Direct booking managers

Central hospitality management systems

POS systems

By enhancing compatibility between these modules, the need for manual data entry is reduced, ensuring a superior guest experience while saving time on backend processes for accounting teams.

GuestPay, our integrated payment solution, precisely caters to these requirements. Launched in 2020, GuestPay provides a simpler payment solution that combines the operational and payment systems into one centralised hub to ensure a streamlined flow of the booking and payment data into the hotels systems.

This integration, seamlessly executed via APIs, enables hoteliers to deliver a secure and frictionless payment experience for guests, while also facilitating real-time data updates and automating the payment process across various transaction scenarios:

Room bookings and deposits

Upgrades and add-ons

Restaurant services and F&B charges

Incidentals and other charges

Conferencing and banqueting rental fees

Auto-collection of no-shows and cancellation fees

GuestPay was awarded the "Most Innovative Payment Solution" recognition at the Merchant Payment Ecosystem Awards in Berlin. With GuestPay, we are establishing new industry benchmarks with a first-in-class, omni-channel solution for hoteliers.

We are delighted to release our ultimate guide designed to help hoteliers identify operational blind spots that could impact the guest experience.

Read here!

About Guestline

Guestline (an Access Company) provides the hospitality industry with innovative property management, guest engagement, payment and distribution software.

Since 2003, Guestline's cloud-based solutions equip any sized hotel or group with everything to successfully run the business and generate more revenue - from intuitive PMS and booking software to fully unified channel management and payment solutions.

Guestline's feature-rich portfolio includes PMS, CRS, Conference & Banqueting, Channel Manager, EPoS, Internet Booking Engine, GuestPay Payments and GuestStay Guest Experience. With over 500 integrations, Guestline offers its 3,000 clients a flexible, cost-effective, multi-functional system that allows them to stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Discover more at guestline.com

Sophie Cartwright

Marketing & Communications Manager

01743 282300
LOS ANGELES, CA - The Hotel Association of Los Angeles (HALA) celebrated the best and brightest of the industry Tuesday night at the second annual HALA Stars of the Industry Awards.

Wendy Burch, KTLAs star veteran reporter, MCed the dinner gala at the Omni Los Angeles with her unique flair, announcing awards from Best Housekeeper to Best General Manager. Across all roles, winners were recognized for hard work, dedication, going beyond their normal duties, andmost importantlysupporting their colleagues.

Another key criterion: delivering great experiences to guests.

I learned at a young age how offering kindness and support can bring me and the people around me immense joy. Its the primary reason I pursued a career in hospitality. Being helpful and hospitable is second nature to me, it is my passion. Hector Prieto, who was named Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year

HALA President and CEO, Dr. Jackie Filla, echoed this philosophy. Our industry has one purpose: to create joy for travelers coming to L.A. she remarked. Sometimes its personalized care from a managersometimes its an immaculately clean room. Wherever the traveler finds joy, there are hardworking people creating these experiences, and Im delighted to celebrate them all. Theyre the ones who make this all happen.

These years award winners are as follows:

Community Service: Hoxton Downtown Los Angeles

Hoxton Downtown Los Angeles Rising Star: Melissa Swieca  Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City

Melissa Swieca  Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City Housekeeping: Tracy Hu  JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE

Tracy Hu  JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year (Small/Medium Property): Hector Prieto  Hotel Casa Del Mar

Hector Prieto  Hotel Casa Del Mar Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year (Large Property): Todd Hulce  Fairmont Century Plaza

Todd Hulce  Fairmont Century Plaza Outstanding Manager of the Year (Small/Medium Property): Alexandra Cove  Cara Hotel

Alexandra Cove  Cara Hotel Outstanding Manager of the Year (Large Property): Jeri Zavala Tovar  Hotel Figueroa

Jeri Zavala Tovar  Hotel Figueroa Outstanding General Manager of the Year: Javier Cano  The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles & JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE

These winners were selected from scores of nominees. Honestly, I wish we could have given out more awardsthere are so many deserving candidates, said Mark Davis, Chair of HALAs Board of Directors. Our industry can be demanding, and these professionals show grace and skill on the job every day.

About The Hotel Association of Los Angeles

The Hotel Association of Los Angeles has been the voice of L.A.'s hotel industry since 1932. The organization works to advance the industry and better the lives of all who work in itfrom international chains to local family-owned boutiques, from senior management to hourly staff. HALA's members comprise a cross-section of the industryincluding owners, managers, suppliers, and vendors.
Amidst the current discussions about AI's transformative potential, there's a common industry misconception that it primarily benefits large-scale hotels and enterprises, leaving smaller and medium-sized firms behind in the dark ages. To shed light on the nuanced reality, we sat down with EHLs Ian Millar, Senior Lecturer in Hospitality Technology, to discuss how AI is not just a tool for hospitality giants but can also be a game-changer for SME hotels and firms with an innovative mindset.

How is the hospitality industry gearing up to AI?

PwC are describing the advent of AI as the $15.7 trillion game changer, so although the hospitality sector has only been taking baby steps towards it for now, this is certainly the right time for us to be learning how to harness it effectively. Admittedly, its a vast and complex area, especially in terms of legalities and ethics, but lets look at the win-wins where AI is helping the hospitality taskforce work quicker and more efficiently.

While the hospitality frontline is sacrosanct and will always need the human touch, many back office operations such as staffing timetables, P&L statements, inventory management and pricing strategies are already benefiting from AI assistance. For content creation, it can help operators write quick marketing slogans, social media posts, design posters and make recommendations for  lets say  a day out in Montreux in Chinese. In terms of speed, improving systems and removing language barriers, AI is undeniably a step up for hospitality performance.

Chatbots and virtual assistants, as robotic as they might sound, are effectively being used for answering routine questions, (What time is breakfast?), booking enquiries and customer service requests. Sometimes they dont have all the nuanced answers, and yes, one might yearn for a human voice at the end of the line, but they do free up a lot of employee time that can then be dedicated to enhancing the customer experience in other ways.

AI algorithms are helping to analyze demand patterns, competitor pricing and other factors in real-time (e.g., the impact of the weather or a big event) to optimize pricing strategies. By implementing dynamic pricing, hotels can adjust room rates, package deals and promotions to maximize revenue and occupancy rates. These algorithms also crunch guest data, preferences and habits to personalize their hospitality experience so that services and activities can be tailor-made.

In terms of physical buildings, AI predictive maintenance systems analyzes equipment and facility data to identify potential issues before they occur, e.g., an unoccupied room whose temperature is registering very low may suggest a badly closed window or a faulty radiator. By spotting maintenance needs and scheduling repairs proactively, hotel managers are able to minimize breakdown time, reduce maintenance costs and ensure optimal performance of facilities.

Overall, AI needs a lot of context and critical faculties in order to get the best from its high level of analysis. Small hospitality firms need to carefully consider their needs before investing in AI solutions, ensuring alignment with specific business goals, operational workflows and customer experience objectives. Admittedly, the cost of tech implementation is one of the main issues why SMEs are finding it hard to jump on the AI bandwagon today.

Why are many SMEs struggling to get on board with AI?

The problem here is essentially to do with culture, mindset and costs. Some SMEs believe that AI adoption is not for them because a) theyre not quite sure what AI would bring them or how to implement it, and b) they are skeptical of the costs involved, and c) they feel that things are working fine as they are now, so why change?

Imagine the mindset of a traditional, family-run hotel in a remote setting - it tends to be quite conservative. During a recent Association Romande des Hoteliers conference at EHL, some SME hotel managers admitted that theyd be open to using more AI systems in their daily operations if only they could receive some training and insights on how to best implement them. (This has given rise to a short 2-day course I am currently building aimed at exactly this audience. Dates to be set later in the year!)

I call it the Lost in Translation syndrome where the mindset and language of a small hotelier and a tech expert are worlds apart. Its a case of How much is this going to cost me? vs. What new possibilities is this going to bring me? In todays fast-evolving world, the hospitality sector needs leaders who can speak both languages to help build the tech side while bearing in mind a hoteliers sensibilities.

The perception of AI as a luxury or big business solution needs to be replaced by a more innovation-drives-profitability mindset. Typically, larger enterprises with greater resources and volume capacity do not wince at investing in AI systems, but small-scale operations should also be looking at the long-term benefits that better pricing strategies, speedier operations and more effective staffing methods could bring them. Many of these tech advancements can be implemented in incremental stages and at reasonable prices. Lack of awareness and resistance to change are undermining SMEs opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and profitability.

What top 5 AI systems should hospitality SMEs be considering?

Heres my list of AI suggestions for a hospitality SME wishing to use tech for enhancing profitability for the business and all its stakeholders:

1. AI-powered chatbots

To automate customer interaction on social media platforms and messaging apps. There are many affordable chatbot platforms available that offer pre-built templates and customization options without requiring extensive coding knowledge.

2. Predictive analytics

To analyze historical data and forecast customer demand, optimize inventory levels, identify sales opportunities and improve marketing campaigns.

3. Automated marketing campaigns

To segment audiences, personalize content, schedule campaigns and analyze performance metrics.

4. AI-enhanced CRM (customer relationship management) systems

To help manage customer data, track interactions and automate follow-up tasks. These systems provide insights into customer preferences and engagement patterns, thereby helping to deliver more personalized experiences and improve customer retention.

5. Energy management systems (EMS)

To monitor and control energy usage in real-time, identifying areas of inefficiency and helping reduce costs.

When it comes to tech investment, I suggest small firms to consider the following questions: Does this expenditure help to a) reduce costs, b) increase customer satisfaction, c) increase staff satisfaction, d) increase revenue? If it can do one or multiples of these things, then its worth it.

Can you give examples of hotel brands leading the way with AI?

For me, citizienM are a bright light in terms of AI adoption and a positive digital mindset. The hotel brand is somewhere between an SME and a big chain, but what sets them apart is their unique attitude in using tech innovation for embellishing the guest experience. Their focus is totally driven by responding to the needs of todays modern, nomadic and tech savvy mobile citizen, hence their latest slogan A truly human hotel for the modern traveller. Real life ambassadors are at reception to greet the guests, but those who prefer to be contactless can check in via the phone.

To quote Bojan Pavacic, citizenMs Director of Technology and Digital: AI cannot ever substitute the human touch. citizenM believes in human care supported by tech. Tech implementation is part of citizenMs innovation and development strategy. Despite having only 14m2 rooms, citizenM is the most valuable hotel company per room in the world right now. 5-star palace hotels barely have an IT manager  and if they do, the role is purely operational (e.g., fixing printers), not strategic.

The company now have a designated data scientist team working with their AI systems to help dissect the abundance of data and make sense of it. This results in optimal root cause analysis  which takes us back to a problem in the room. Choose how you want your staff to be spending their time: fixing a broken TV or reacting proactively before it breaks down?

For citizenM, AI is like having a great concierge. Via the chatbot function, it answer comments and reviews from the hotel staff perspective, it runs better ads, personalizes tourism info, chooses best places to go. AI will soon be better than a travel agency!

Do you think AI can help with talent acquisition?

Yes and no. Talent acquisition and retention is essentially a culture problem. Our industry still has to find a way of fixing the debatable rate of pay, long hours and split shifts. Sadly, AI cant fix these problems. But it can help streamline the recruitment process with tools such as applicant tracking systems (ATS) that automatically screen CVs and identify candidates based on predefined criteria such as skills, personality and cultural fit.

Hospitality is full of seasonal work, here AI tools can help with seasonal contracts, onboarding processes and helping to source profiles who are suitable for this specific type of employment  which is often quite intense and tiring!

On a similar note, I dont think AI can help much with staff productivity  much of this is down to training. AI might have tools for better managing food waste, but training your interns on how to use a knife correctly and not trash half the onion would eliminate much of the food waste in the first place.

What do you say people who fear the dehumanization of the hospitality industry due to AI?

Let me assure you that AI is NOT going to replace people! Robots are not coming to replace hotel workers  especially not in SMEs, nor in luxury establishment where the human connection is irreplaceable. (However, you might find yourself being served by a robot at McDonalds in Fort Worth, Texas, where last year they launched their first staff-less restaurant).

Hospitality is all about human connection and a welcoming exchange, but its also about choice, variety and efficient delivery. Here is where AI can play a role in personalization, speedier service delivery and more targeted offers. It is an enabler, not a solution per se. It has to be trained by a human and given a logic to follow.

No top chef of a fine dining restaurant would use an AI-generated recipe, (maybe a lower level F&B manager might, but even then they would add a personal spin into the mix). While AI and technology enhance operational efficiency, data analytics and certain aspects of guest service, they complement rather than replace the memorable real-life connections that hospitality is built upon.

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

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HVS Brokerage & Advisory, as the sole and exclusive advisory firm to ownership, presents the opportunity to acquire the 106-key La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Pharr RGV Medical Center, a limited-service hotel asset situated in Pharr, Texas. The property, having recently received over $2 million in updates, is currently owner-operated, and it will be sold without management encumbrances.

Strong Performance

Per the February 2024 STR report, the hotels TTM RevPAR increased by 9.5%, compared to the broader McAllen/Brownsville markets 3.3% growth, while the competitive sets RevPAR level shrank by 7.3%.

The hotel generated an average rooms revenue of $2,535,739 for the three-year period of 2021 through 2023.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Franchise

La Quinta by Wyndham is a well-established, limited-service, upper-midscale hotel brand that appeals to both business and leisure travelers. The brands RevPAR index averages over 100.0% nationally, and franchisees benefit from the 100 million Wyndham Rewards members to help drive guest stays.

Upon approval from the franchise, an investor can expect a new, long-term license agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

Well-Maintained, High-Quality Physical Product at a Discount to Replacement Cost

This opportunity presents an investor with the ability to acquire the property at a price well below replacement cost at $80,189.

Recent renovations exceeding $2 million by current ownership have lowered the expected expense associated with Wyndham's change-of-ownership property improvement plan (PIP).

Excellent Interstate-Adjacent Location in the McAllen Market

The population in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is projected to nearly double by the year 2045 (from 1.3 million to 2.4 million on the U.S. side), driven by significant employment growth, according to the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation.

McAllen's aerospace industry employs over 3,000 individuals, with key players such as General Electric Aviation and SpaceX highlighting the region's advancement and growth in the industry.

The McAllen/Reynosa International Metro, also known as the Borderplex, is a significant manufacturing hub featuring 29 industrial parks that house major companies like TI Automotive, Delphi Teck, Panasonic, General Electric Aviation, and Stanley Black & Decker, among others. The Borderplex supports a manufacturing labor force of roughly 136,000 workers across the automotive, aerospace, medical, and electronics industries.

The property benefits from excellent visibility and accessibility given its location along the Interstate 69C (I-69C) frontage road, south of the interchange with Interstate 2. I-69C is a major thoroughfare project that, once complete, will connect Pharr to Central Texas.

Transformative Developments Reshaping the Rio Grande Valleys Economic Landscape

After several years of lobbying and organizing, The University of TexasRio Grande Valley, which includes a four-year medical school, was created from a merger of The University of Texas at Brownsville and The University of TexasPan American in Edinburg. The institution has a current total enrollment of over 32,000 students.

Other educational institutions, such as South Texas College and the Texas State Technical College, also provide higher-education opportunities to the local workforce, as well as attract educated transplantsa.

McAllen is positioning itself as a medical research hub, leveraging existing healthcare infrastructure that includes Doctors Hospital at Renaissance (DHR) Health System, featuring an 83,000-square-foot research facility; Rio Grande Regional Hospital; South Texas Health System; and UnitedHealth Group, which collectively employ over 31,000 medical professionals. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine was launched in 2016 and had received full accreditation as of June 2023.

SpaceX's establishment in Brownsville marks a pivotal economic development within the Rio Grande Valley, creating aerospace industry jobs and ancillary growth and investmentaa.
Eiad Eltawil is one of many Valencia Street business owners who say their sales have plummeted since the SFMTA opened a two-way protected bike lane in the middle of the street in August. He has begun a hunger strike in protest. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Eiad Eltawil was rattling off the dozen or so businesses that closed on the Valencia Street corridor in recent months when he noticed a sheet of paper.

There, next to a FOR SALE sign on a shuttered storefront near the corner of Valencia and 22nd Street, was a note to customers: After 36 years of service, we have decided to close. Eltawil shook his head. Unless something changes soon, Yasmin  the casual Mediterranean restaurant he owns at 799 Valencia St.  could be next.

Eltawil, 41, is just one of many Valencia business owners who say their sales have plummeted since the SFMTA opened a two-way protected center bike lane there in August. Though no one knows exactly how much the controversial bikeway has contributed to the areas decline in visitors, Eltawil remains adamant: It must go, immediately.

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A parklet contains a message to the city and passersby made by Eiad Eltawil, the owner of Yasmin restaurant, on Tuesday. Eltawil has started a 30-day hunger strike to protest a controversial center bike lane on Valencia Street and its impact on local businesses. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Out of options and low on hope, he embarked last Sunday on a 30-day hunger strike to bring awareness to the bike lanes far-reaching consequences. Until May 7, he plans to sleep on a parklet in front of his business, pass out flyers about his cause and consume only water.

Friends and family worry that Eltawil might get assaulted in the middle of the night, experience a medical emergency or die. But after watching his restaurant  the culmination of decades of work  plunge to the brink of financial collapse, Eltawil figures a month without food cant be any worse.

Ive already suffered so much, he said Monday afternoon, standing next to the parklet that currently serves as his home. At least this way, maybe someone in power will see my struggle and make some changes. Its a last resort for me.

The Valencia bikeway, which runs from 15th Street through 23rd, is a first-of-its-kind project in San Francisco designed to make the citys most important north-south bike route safer for cyclists. Yet, eight months after it was installed, some arent sure it has accomplished its top objective.

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Cyclists make their way up the center bike lane on Valencia Street in San Francisco on Tuesday. Merchants on the street say the bike lane has hurt their businesses by making it harder for visitors to the neighborhood to park nearby. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

According to SFMTAs three-month evaluation of the bikeway, 12 crashes between cyclists and cars occurred between August and October  a higher accident rate than before the bike lane opened. It didnt help that new traffic rules on the eight-block corridor, including the elimination of left turns, created confusion. In September, a left-turning driver killed an 80-year-old pedestrian at Valencia and 18th streets.

The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition didnt respond to a request for comment. SFMTA is expected to release its next evaluation in July, but many locals fear the word is already out: This is a place to avoid. A Valencia Merchants Association survey found that some business owners revenue had dipped as much as 50% between summer 2022 and summer 2023  despite the end of pandemic-era social restrictions.

Long an oasis of cafes, clubs and late-night eats, Valencia has given way in places to boarded-up storefronts papered with anti-bikeway signs. In the process, the historic corridor has lost something bigger and less tangible than money.

It no longer has its culture, said David Quinby, owner of Amados, a music venue at 998 Valencia that closed in November. With no soul, its just another quiet, whitewashed community.

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Rafik Bouzidi has witnessed the streets decline firsthand. Last spring, after reduced tourism forced him to close his Tunisian restaurant in Union Square, he signed a 15-year lease to open a new spot at 819 Valencia  a part of the corridor he had once cherished. Some of Bouzidis fondest memories were of finishing a shift at midnight, grabbing a late dinner on Valencia, then sipping a drink at one of the bustling bars nearby.

But just a few weeks after he opened Gola on that same street, the SFMTA began to install the center-running bike lane. Numerous five-star Yelp reviews havent been enough to keep San Franciscos only Tunisian restaurant busy. With 71 fewer metered spaces on Valencia than there were before the bike lane, customers often cancel their reservations at Bouzidis restaurant after a half-hour of searching for parking.

If I was in New York, Id have lines around the block, he said. But San Francisco is killing businesses, and its as simple as that.

Small-business owner consultant Kevin Ortiz, left, restaurant owner Rafik Bouzidi and Eiad Eltawils wife, Sahar Milani, stand outside a parklet built by Eltawil, where he is sleeping during his 30-day hunger strike. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Bouzidi, Eltawil and Quinby are among the 10 business owners threatening legal action against the city over how the bike lane harmed their revenue. But as Bouzidi put it, our biggest enemy is not S.F.  its the clock.

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In the past six months, at least 10 businesses have closed on Valencia. Reports suggest that many more are on the verge of shuttering. Another rough couple of months, and FOR SALE signs might cover much of the eight-block corridor.

This explains why some business owners are out of patience. For about a year now, they have protested the bike lane, only for the SFMTA to keep it in place.

However, the agency does finally seem to recognize its pilot programs shortcomings. In a recent interview with the Chronicle, Jeffrey Tumlin, the SFMTAs director of transportation, acknowledged that the bike lane has created some unintended consequences that warrant a pivot.

The city is working to design side-running protected bike lanes that would line the curb and necessitate changing the location of parklets. For that plan to pass, the SFMTA must receive approval from every Valencia business owner with a parklet.

Thats a seismic task. And even if the SFMTA proceeds with the new bike lanes, the agency will still need another four months  two for the technical design process, two for the approvals process  before it can install them.

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If we can get to a really quick consensus, its still possible to complete the work this year, Tumlin said. But theres a lot of collaboration thats going to be necessary, so I dont want to over-promise yet.

LEFT: A sign protesting the bike lane stands outside the Rossi gallery, owned by Eiad Eltawil. RIGHT: A sign protesting the controversial bike lane stands at the entry of Rossi. Photos by Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle TOP: A sign protesting the bike lane stands outside the Rossi gallery, owned by Eiad Eltawil. BOTTOM: A sign protesting the controversial bike lane stands at the entry of Rossi. Photos by Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Eltawil cant afford to wait. Asked how much longer he would keep Yasmin open if revenue doesnt improve, he conceded that he shouldve been shut down a while ago.

Desperate for a solution, Eltawil has worked 17 hours a day, seven days a week. He has borrowed money from his family restaurant, Palmyra on Haight Street, to pay his 10 employees. He has sold most of his belongings at flea markets.

Eltawils debts continue to mount. Some nights he can barely sleep, his mind racing with hypotheticals: What if he really does have to close Yasmin? Then what?



Business owners know not to rent space on Valencia these days, which could make getting out of his lease borderline impossible. Theres also the overwhelming sense of failure hed have to navigate. In addition to having three kids and a wife who depend on him, Eltawil has long eyed one goal: owning a restaurant.

I keep begging him to move to Denmark, which is where I grew up, said Sahar Milani, Eltawils wife. But at the same time, I understand him. Its not going to happen. Hes going to be here until they basically kick him out.

Born in Damascus, Syria, Eltawil moved with his family to San Francisco at age 11. Childhood visits to a local Mediterranean restaurant, where his father worked as a chef, made him want to run a place of his own someday. After graduating from Galileo High School, Eltawil worked as a mechanic, a taxi driver, an owner of a limousine company  anything to help him save enough money to start a restaurant.

Finally, in 2011, he did just that when he opened Palmyra with his brother. Business boomed. When Eltawils uncle put his Middle Eastern restaurant for sale on Valencia Street four years ago, Eltawil took it over, named it after his younger sister, and began seasoning his meats with his great-grandfathers 14-herb recipe.

Since then Yasmin has weathered the pandemic and a fire that forced it to close for 16 months. As Eltawil strolled Valencia on a sunny Monday afternoon in early April, he glanced at his storefront, shaking his head as he reflected on the absurdity of his situation: After all Yasmin has endured, a bike lane might be its demise.

A cyclist passes a parklet built by Eiad Eltawil on Valencia Street in San Francisco. Eltawil is on a 30-day hunger strike to protest the controversial bike lane he said has hurt his business and others on the once-popular corridor. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

Irate on April 3 over the two parklets he lost because of the bike lane, he grabbed a can of black spray paint and kneeled in front of a parklet he had used illegally. There, in capital letters, is his promise to complete a 30-day hunger strike.

Just four days later, Eltawil sat at that same parklet  for which he now has a permit  for a last supper of chicken and beef kebabs, rice, hummus, cucumber salad and pita. As he feasted, he felt a surge of excitement.

Maybe not eating again for 30 days will make all the difference, he thought. After all, what else can he do?
Source AHLA



After House vote and court victory, Senate vote is third major AHLA win on this issue

American Hotel & Lodging Association Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey released the following statement today after the U.S. Senate passed a resolution to overturn the National Labor Relations Boards (NLRB) destructive joint-employer rule. The House of Representatives passed the same resolution in January, and it now heads to the presidents desk for consideration.

Additionally, following a lawsuit filed by AHLA and other business groups, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas on March 8 blocked NLRBs implementation of the rule.

Todays bipartisan Senate vote is a win for hoteliers and small business owners everywhere, and shows the rule is out of step with Congress, the courts, and Americas job creators. Lawmakers from both parties in the House and Senate realize the administrations joint-employer rule would acutely suppress job creation for hoteliers and other businesses, and therefore it needs to be abandoned, said AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey. We thank Sen. Cassidy, Sen. Manchin, Leader McConnell and their Senate colleagues for listening to the thousands of small business hoteliers AHLA represents and passing this resolution.

Background

In October, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) released a final rule unjustifiably expanding the joint-employer standard under the National Labor Relations Act.

On Jan. 12, the House approved a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the rule  the same resolution the Senate passed today.

After AHLA and other business groups filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas challenging joint-employers legality, the court blocked NLRB from implementing the rule. In its decision, the court also reinstated a 2020 NLRB standard that protects businesses from undue liability for employees over whom they do not have direct control.

About Joint Employer

NLRBs joint-employer rule is all about coercing businesses to the bargaining table with workers they do not actually employ to increase unionization. The rule would make it easier for the NLRB to declare joint employment status in business relationships, such as franchising, and it would enable unions to organize by company rather than property by property.
Redefining Business Mobility: Insights into Travel and Office Trends for 2024

During his recent conversation with Ryan Embree for the Hospitality Trailblazers series on the Suite Spot podcast, President and CEO Charles E. Oswald talked through his trends and predictions for 2024.E Here, Charles expands on those thoughts.

In the ever-evolving business travel landscape, we observe significant shifts in market trends. Currently, there's a general softening in leisure travel trends coupled with an improvement in business travel. These changes are critical as we adapt and strategize for the future.

Key indicators that are paramount in our analysis include Office Utilization trends and Air Traffic, both of which offer valuable insights into the behavior of business travelers. Notably, Air Traffic has commendably recovered to levels above those of 2019. However, Office Utilization presents a contrasting picture, hovering below 50% of the figures seen in 2019. Interestingly, Office Lease rates are maintaining a strong position, sitting around 96% indexed to 2019. This data is instrumental in shaping our approach to hotel management and services.

It's essential, however, to approach these statistics with caution, especially when discussing national trends. The reason is that each market possesses its unique characteristics and trends. For instance, markets like Miami, Phoenix, and Austin are witnessing Office Lease rates and Utilization that have largely recovered, or even surpassing the levels seen in 2019. On the other hand, cities such as San Francisco, San Jose, and Philadelphia are significantly lagging. Conversely, while leisure travel is softening in regions like South Florida, we're experiencing an uptick in Asian leisure travel in West Coast cities like San Francisco.

The corporate environment is also undergoing a notable shift. Many Fortune 100 companies are actively calling their employees back to the office. In mid-2023, we saw prominent companies like Oracle, Dell, Capital One, Google, Citigroup, and AT&T reintroducing three days a week office patterns. This trend continued into the last trimester of 2023, as companies like Goldman Sachs, Apple, Blackrock, Meta, Cigna, Comcast, and FedEx mandated office time. As we roll into the first quarter of 2024, the momentum continues with companies like USAA and others also transitioning back to office environments.

These changes are in response to the realization among companies that the remote and hybrid work period caused the US corporations to experience a record loss in employee labor productivity. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 1.9% decline over the past two years, marking the sharpest decline on record. This statistic is a clear indicator regarding the relevance of in-person collaboration as is the hallmark of the traditional work environment.

With the gradual normalization of labor conditions, we're witnessing an increase in small, corporate group meetings. The transient business growth trend and shorter length of stay pattern are also noteworthy. Many workers who relocated during the pandemic are now part of a new dynamic, which might lead to an increased need for short-term accommodation as they comply with new office mandates. This presents both challenges and opportunities for our industry, and we are strategically positioned to adapt and thrive in this changing environment.

Charles Oswald

Charles serves as CEO of Aperture Hotels, a fast-growing third-party hotel management company, and is a member of Cayuga Hospitality Consultants. He specializes in domestic US hotel operations, though has also touched numerous other industries. His experience covers Leadership, Turn-Key Hotel Operations, Management Approvals (Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Hyatt, Choice, and Wyndham brands), Hotel Rebranding / Repositioning, Revenue Management, Capital Improvement Planning, Underwriting and Market Studies/Feasibility, Capital Raising / Creating Successful JV Partnerships, Off-Market Hotel Deals, Hospitality Asset Management, Strategic and Financial Planning, and dealing with matters of Corporate Governance. Connect with Charles on LinkedIn.
Source Amadeus

According to the industry body UN (United Nations) Tourism, travel is thriving and a strong recovery of Asian markets and destinations is expected to underpin a buoyant global tourism market by the end of 2024. The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) forecasts that spending on corporate travel will also surpass 2019 levels during 2024 and is set to increase by a further 29% in the next two years. It is an exciting time to be in travel.

And as the market grows, more sophisticated technology is available than ever before to help our industry to continually improve the experience of travel. But we know that it is not one size fits all. Different travel providers are focused in different areas at different speeds, so it is important for us to listen carefully to our industry and be in lockstep with what they need from us.

That is what inspired the Travel Technology Investment Trends industry-wide research. Through the study, we gathered the opinions of over 1,200 technology leaders from travel companies in eight different sectors, in 10 important markets.

The study captures the aspirations, pressures, and strategies of 450 Online Travel Agents (OTAs), Leisure Travel Agents (LTAs) and Business Travel Agents (BTAs) internationally and charts what they have front of mind when they think about technology in 2024. I wanted to share with you some of the highlights.

Investment and top technologies

In the study we learned that two thirds of agents across the world are planning concerted investment in technology over the next year and plan to increase their tech investments by around 13% in the coming 12 months which is significant.

Over the next year all agents combined indicated that data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital payments will be the most important technology priorities for their businesses. However, this shifts slightly when we broaden the horizon to five years, where we heard from agents that Generative AI (Gen AI) and the Metaverse will also take center stage as top priorities.

As an industry, we have been working hard on NDC (New Distribution Capability) and are proud that it is an area where progress is accelerating. There is no doubt that it has the potential to be a game changer for agencies of all types in the coming years, and, we are starting to see traction. 40% of leisure agents cite gaining NDC capabilities as one of their top priorities over the next 12 months. Despite inevitable teething challenges that usually accompany a new way of doing things, we can see that NDC volumes have increased by a factor of five compared to 2022 and the industry is starting to experience the benefits of this more evolved way of selling travel.

Online Travel agents focus on search and creating a comprehensive one-stop-shop

In a world where consumers can access anything they want online, the value of an OTA (Online Travel Agency) comes when they knit well-priced trips together quickly and effectively, suggesting options beyond what people are able to imagine themselves. For OTAs competition is strong and loyalty is hard to achieve. They told us that they recognize that their competitive edge will be delivered by delivering access to the best content through contextualized and intuitive search. For this reason, they are prioritizing user experience and innovation over margin improvements and 72% of OTAs are investing in enhanced search as of today with a further 22% planning to do so soon.

Alongside this, 35% of OTAs are keen to provide a creative one-stop-shop to better serve travelers. Travelers today expect to be able to search and compare options in one place. This means that LCC (Low-Cost Carrier), NDC, and EDIFACT content must be easily available alongside each other. OTAs recognize this challenge with API connectivity as a top focus for half of all OTAs over the next 12 months.

Leisure agents turn to robotics to streamline the way they work

Leisure agents have endured the most of many of the challenges of the last few years, experiencing staff shortages, alongside huge fluctuations in demand, but they have adapted to the challenges to emerge stronger and leaner than ever before. Still there is progress that can be made with the clever use of technology, so it is no surprise that over half of leisure agents told us they are turning to robotics to streamline manual processes and automate where possible to free up agent time so that they are able to deliver better services for their customers.

Trust of the traveler is key for the small and medium sized leisure travel agencies. Enhancing the customer experience is a top priority as is increasing their ability to personalize their offers by accessing unique NDC fares, and creating bespoke itineraries that meet and exceed traveler expectations. Smart retailing and the ability to differentiate and wow their customers is more important than ever. And as they strive to offer creative end-to-end trips for their customers, leisure agents are seeking the best possible access to air, hotel, insurance, mobility and in destination experiences. As ever, well integrated content is king.

Business travel agents prioritize automation and digital payments

As demand for business travel continues to increase, corporate travel agents are focused on offering personalized trips that are simpler for the traveler and more straightforward to administer so that governance and productivity can be improved.

Virtual cards are high on the agenda for BTAs as using a single card to pay for end-to-end services is seen as one of the top areas to unlock productivity by 67% of agents, reducing the need to reconcile individual payments.

Self-service is coming into focus too with around half of the leaders surveyed confirming their agencies do not yet offer full options for their travelers to change an airline ticket themselves, so there is significant potential for this type of technology to help streamline business travel for agents and travelers alike.

Looking forward

With travel booming, many agents are enjoying a sense of renewed momentum but are understandably constantly on the look-out for better ways to serve their customers and run their businesses. Technology can provide many of the answers as innovation continues to push the boundaries on what is possible.

Amadeus is at the center of the travel ecosystem, and we are excited to help travel sellers achieve their goals, address their concerns, and maximize the opportunities ahead. From providing the most extensive content available, to enabling end-to-end smart retailing capabilities to all our customers no matter their size or location, together we are making travel work better.

For more insights on how each sector of the travel seller community is thinking about travel technology, here are links to the full reports:

Business Travel

Leisure Travel

Online travel

Elena Avila, Executive Vice President, Travel Distribution, Amadeus. Connect with Elena on LinkedIn.
Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton

Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hilton Alvor

The Club Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton

10 resorts set to open this summer in Mediterranean island destinations including in Greece, Ibiza and Malta

Nearly 100 resorts now trading or in the pipeline across Europe, Middle East and Africa under nine brands

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) will rapidly expand its resort portfolio in Europe, with 10 hotels, totalling more than 1,500 guest rooms, opening in time for summer across its Curio Collection by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton brands. Ahead of this years International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF), taking place in Berlin next week, Hilton has today announced franchise agreements for four hotels: Hilton Alvor, opening in 2026, and Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton, The Club Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton and Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton, which join upcoming European resort properties opening in Italy, Greece, Croatia and Malta this summer.

Key leisure destinations such as Greece and Sardinia have increased in popularity in recent years and, in the last year alone, Hilton signed more than 20 resort hotels across Europe, Middle East and Africa under six of its brands. This growth is part of Hilton's strategy to develop its portfolio of resort hotels, which has doubled in the last five years and now stands at more than 300 hotels worldwide.

Guest demand for high quality resorts in both longstanding international hotspots and up and coming leisure destinations is growing, leading to increased interest from owners in developing resort hotels under Hilton brands, said Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton. Last year alone, more than a fifth of our openings in Europe, Middle East and Africa were resort hotels and, working with a wide range of owners, we are looking forward to continued growth across this market segment, particularly in Mediterranean island destinations. With 10 European resort hotels due to open in time for the summer season, were introducing outstanding properties to popular destinations including Ibiza, the Algarve and Crete, expanding our range of resorts across the region under different brands.

The newly developed Hilton Alvor will be located in the highly popular Algarve region and is expected to open in 2026, following a franchise agreement with Mercan Group, with whom Hilton opened Arts Hotel Porto, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, last year. Joining two hotels trading under the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand in Portugal, the hotel resort will offer 363 guest rooms set against a picturesque coastal view. Throughout the extensive property, with a delicate and sustainable landscaping, guests will be able to choose from five restaurants, including two specialty dining offerings, three bars, including a bar on the rooftop with a terrace, as well as Grab & Go food options for those heading out to explore the stunning Algarve region. Guests will be invited to relax and unwind in one of the resorts six swimming pools, extensive spa including a vitality pool, or by the sea, thanks to the hotels beachside location. Meetings and events will be well served by more than 1,200 square meters of events space, including a 450 square meter ballroom perfect for weddings and all kinds of events.

Two Resort Hotels Announced in Ibiza

Following a franchise agreement with Hotel Investment Partners (HIP), a leading owner of resort hotels in Southern Europe owned by Blackstone-managed funds, Hilton has announced plans for two hotels in Ibiza under its Curio Collection by Hilton brand. Due to open in time for the 2024 summer season, these hotels mark a significant step forward for Curio Collection by Hilton, debuting in one of the worlds most coveted holiday destinations. These hotels join the recently opened Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana and Domes Aulus Elounda, Curio Collection by Hilton, both following agreements between Hilton and owners HIP.

Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located in Port de San Miguel's northern region on the island, Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton will feature 196 guest rooms when it opens in time for the summer. With direct beach and sea access, this waterfront hotel will offer three restaurants showcasing diverse cuisines, including Mediterranean and Asian specialties, along with two bars and two swimming pools. Catering to various visitor preferences, the hotel will also offer fitness facilities and a wellness area, complete with a designated outdoor area for calisthenics and yoga.

The Club Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton

The sister hotel of Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton is located just moments away, sharing a number of amenities across the two properties. The Club Cala San Miguel Hotel Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton, will be an adults-recommended hotel featuring 96 guest rooms, offering direct access to white sandy beaches. The hotel will offer two restaurants, and two bars including a pool bar and lobby bar. Situated 10 minutes from Cala Benirras and around 30 minutes from the sites of the Old Town, it boasts a variety of restaurants and bars, including a food truck, an outdoor pool to chill out by, and a fitness centre.

Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located in the southeastern corner of Crete, Numo Ierapetra Beach Resort Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton is an exclusive beachfront property designed for adults in the lesser-explored area of Ierapetra in southern Crete. The hotel follows a franchise agreement with NUMO Hospitality, marking Hiltons second property with the owner following the opening of Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton in 2021. Featuring 132 spacious guest rooms and suites that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces, the new resort boasts two swimming pools, an indoor and outdoor gym, tennis court and a boutique spa, making it an ideal retreat for wellness enthusiasts. Additionally, guests can enjoy unique amenities such as an open-air cinema set against the picturesque hills. Crete, Greece's largest island and a favourite among European travellers, enchants visitors with its breath-taking natural landscapes, rich culinary traditions, and ancient historical sites.

These hotels join several planned openings across the Mediterranean this summer, including Isla Brown Chania Crete Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, Isla Brown Corinthia Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, Mangia's Santa Teresa Sardinia, Curio Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton Malta and Keight Hotel Opatija, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Will you actively support WINs Global Values for Independent Music?

Music trade group WIN (Worldwide Independent Network) has announced a new set of Global Independent Values as part of its ongoing campaign to unify and clarify the sectors positions. But will the industry embrace them?

From WIN:

As the music industry landscape evolves it is incumbent upon WIN to ensure its focus remains on those factors impacting its trade association members around the world. The last decade has seen significant advancements in technology and innovation in areas such as streaming, social media and latterly Web3, which have raised concerns about rights protection & collection, transparency & fairness and the wider value of music. There has also been global economic volatility and a greater need to address issues surrounding sustainability and equality, diversity & inclusion.

The ten points below represent the collective position of the global independent recorded music sector, put forward by WIN. All points are equal in stature and are not numbered according to any form of ranking or significance:

Global Independent Values

1. We, the independents, work to grow the value of music and the music business. Independent music businesses should have full market access and the best terms available. Anindependent copyright should be valued and remunerated at the highest level. We will work to ensure that all businesses in our sector are best equipped to maximize the value of their rights.

2. We support creators freedom to decide how their music may be used and their right to earn a living from their work, which should be respected as a basic human right. We will encourage artists and record labels to speak out directly against any uses of music that stifle that freedom. We expect all uses of music to be subject to authorization and fairly negotiated licensing terms.

3. We support independent music businesses who treat the artists they work with as partners and engage with them on fair commercial terms, noting that those businesses are investors who deserve a fair financial return alongside artists. We welcome choice and the variety of business models made available to artists by independent music businesses.

4. We promote transparency and fairness across the music market including the digital landscape. Artists and businesses are entitled to clarity on commercial terms. We will work to make streaming and new consumption models operate fairly, providing a dynamic, compelling and responsible future for artists, businesses and fans.

5. We support initiatives which confront market abuse and oppose over-consolidation in any part of the broader music ecosystem where it reduces market access and consumer choice. We will work to promote market access and foster collective responses by independents to potentially anti-competitive conduct.

6. We recognize that all independent music businesses contribute to local culture, diversity, jobs and export opportunities, and multiply the economic success of related industries. We will ask governments to promote and support the independent music sector in securing access to finance and tax credits, and to local and international markets.

7. We champion the full exercise and protection in all territories of the rights conferred on the owners of sound recordings by international treaties. We will promote initiatives to increase the transparency, democracy and efficiency of collecting societies, so that revenues are allocated and distributed accurately to their rightful owners.

8. We actively encourage and support new commercial opportunities for music. We will continue to support and develop new, legitimate technologies, business structures and partnerships, and to promote best practices within our industry.

9. We promote equity, diversity, inclusion and sustainability in the music sector. We will encourage best practices, local developments and projects regarding diversity and inclusion as well as those which promote individual and collective action to address the climate and environmental emergency.

10. The independents will work together to build a strong, ethical, and united ecosystem, fostering knowledge-sharing, international exchange and cooperation, and creating opportunities for all independent music businesses and their representative bodies around the world.

Bruce Houghton

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Williamstown Charter Proposal Sparks Concern over 'Separation of Powers'

Updated on April 20 to reflect a decision to withdraw a town meeting article submitted by the Conservation Commission relative to the Spruces Park.

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  The Select Board and Planning Board this week clashed over a proposal that would add to the town charter a mechanism to ensure compliance with the foundation of town government.

The Select Board on Monday night finalized the warrant for the annual town meeting.

Most of the 42 articles on the agenda for the Thursday, May 23, meeting were recommended by the Select Board for passage with little or no comment. The primary exception was Article 32, one of five articles to result from deliberations of the Charter Review Committee.

The review committee spent about a year and a half reviewing the 68-year-old charter, which has not received a major revision over the last seven decades.

In consultation with consultants from the Collins Center for Public Management at the University of Massachusetts Boston and after reviewing best practices from municipalities around the commonwealth, the Charter Review Committee developed a number of recommendations to town meeting.

Most of the proposed revisions clarify existing charter language and bring the document in line with town practices that have evolved over the last half century (Article 30). Two of the articles resulting from the CRC are not actually charter changes at all but town bylaw proposals (Articles 33 and 34).

Two proposals would make substantive changes to the charter: adding a recall provision (Article 31) and creating a mechanism to enforce the charter (Article 32).

The latter generated most of the discussion at Monday's Select Board meeting, and that conversation continued into Tuesday's Planning Board meeting.

Stephanie Boyd, a former Planning Board chair who was elected to the Select Board last May, pushed her colleagues at Monday's meeting to amend Article 32 to address her concern that it would mean, "a fundamental change to our town government."

Boyd said she was sorry that she did not raise the issue with the Charter Review Committee and understood that last-minute changes to the article were not ideal.

But she suggested that Article 32 would somehow give the Select Board and town manager "authority" over the Planning Board, Milne Library Board of Directors, Housing Authority and other elected bodies.

Article 32 seeks to create a mechanism to ensure compliance with the charter, a provision left out of the 1956 document.

Specifically, it sets up a process where the town manager reviews any complaint of non-compliance and, after discussion with the party accused of non-compliance, brings the issue to the Select Board to determine a response. If the complaint is against the town manager, the Select Board alone will address the complaint as part of its existing supervisory duties over the manager.

On Boyd's suggestion, the Select Board did make a couple of minor amendments to Article 32, including one that entitles the party accused of noncompliance to submit a written response to the accusation.

But it voted 4-1 against her motion to strike the language of "to determine the appropriate response" from paragraph "b" of what would become Section 25 of the Town Charter if enacted.

And Boyd was on the losing side of a 4-1 vote to recommend town meeting approve Article 32 as drafted; like all charter revisions, a positive vote at May's meeting sends the matter to Boston for approval of the state Legislature in the form of a home-rule petition.

During Monday's discussion at Town Hall, current Planning Board member Roger Lawrence joined Boyd in pushing for an amendment to the article.

"The difficulty we'd have is it ultimately makes the Planning Board subject to the Select Board through the town manager," Lawrence said from the floor of the meeting. "Really, the Planning Board is responsible to the voters. It's an independent board for that reason. If we leave the wording the way it is right now, it would erode the independence of the Planning Board."

Article 32 deals specifically with the issue of compliance with the charter. It is unclear from reading the charter how ensuring compliance would affect a board's "independence."

Section 6 of the Town Charter specifically recognizes that "boards, commissions and committees" have "powers, duties and responsibilities ... provided by any applicable law, bylaw or vote of the town." The Planning Board, in particular, is enabled by Section 81 of Chapter 41 of Title VII in Massachusetts General Law.

The majority of the charter deals with the duties of the town manager and how that manager is supervised by the Select Board.

The only apparent compliance issue for town boards and committees arises in Section 20, which prohibits elected or appointed members of town government from "directly or indirectly, [making] a contract with the town, or to receive any commission, discount, bonus, gift, reward or contribution, or any share in the profits of any person or corporation making or performing such a contract, unless the official concerned, immediately upon learning of the existence of such contract, or that such contract is proposed, shall notify the select board in writing of the contract and of the nature of their interest therein and shall abstain from doing any official act on behalf of the town in reference thereto."

If Article 32 passes and ultimately is incorporated into the charter, the Select Board would be responsible for determining a response to violations of the Section 20 conflict of interest clause, but it is not clear what other authority the Select Board would have over other boards and committees in town.

"I think the practical impact of [Article 32] is minimal," Planning Board Chair Peter Beck said at Tuesday's meeting. "I think the structural impact is significant."

Earlier in Tuesday's Planning Board meeting, Beck said Article 32 would give the Select Board "oversight responsibility" over other boards. Another planner, Cory Campbell, suggested that the charter compliance provision, "could be abused by the Select Board."

"They're entitled to say, 'We want to change the charter so we can hire someone to oversee the Planning Board,' " Beck said, but he noted that the Planning Board was entitled to argue against that proposal at town meeting.

"Major amendments on the floor of town meeting are messy," Beck said. "It's better to vote something down and try again next year."

On Thursday morning, iBerkshires.com reached out to both Boyd and Beck to ask what other "oversight," beyond Section 20, was at issue.

Boyd wrote back that the proposed charter amendment would give the Select Board jurisdiction over, "a complaint about a perceived charter violation" with the word "perceived" bolded for emphasis.

"In addition, we should also consider potential future impacts," Boyd wrote. "Article 32 sets up an approach to authority and governance structure that would establish how future new charter articles are enforced."

Beck, like Boyd, drafted his own version of Article 32, which, he said, "[goes] with the spirit of what they were going for but [makes] it so it stays within the boundary of separation of powers and authority in our town."

The Planning Board on Tuesday voted, 5-0, to bring amended language to the Select Board in hopes that the latter body will decide to offer its own amended version of Article 32 to town meeting.

The other addition to the Town Charter resulting from the Charter Review Committee's deliberation is Article 31, which establishes a recall provision for elected officials.

The Select Board unanimously recommended town meeting adopt this measure after making an amendment on Monday evening.

The proposed charter amendment sets up a two-stage process for forcing a recall election. The first step is an application for a recall petition, which then must be signed by at least 10 percent of the town's registered voters (the town had 5,068 registered voters as of last May's annual town meeting).

The draft from the Charter Review Committee called for the initial application, step one of the process, to be signed by at least 50 registered voters. On Monday, Randal Fippinger and Jane Patton suggested that a 50-signature bar was too low.

Fippinger noted that the commonwealth requires 200 signatures on a petition to call a special town meeting and suggested that is a more appropriate threshold.

"Randy, don't fall out of your chair, but I agree with you 100 percent," Patton joked. "I think it's hard enough to get folks to stick their necks out and run [for public office].

"It really, to me, might prevent people from wanting to run and serve knowing that if they upset someone about something, the next thing you know there's a recall petition with your name attached forever.

"These are people who are volunteers. They're not paid. And they're always going to come down on the side that 50 people don't like.  It's not really about me. By the time all this came about, I'd be two meetings away from being done [on the Select Board]. It's about all the ways we should mindfully make it an appealing option to run and serve the town."

Andrew Hogeland and Jeffrey Johnson, who co-chaired the Charter Review Committee, said they did not recall the committee's members being particularly wedded to the number 50.

Johnson abstained from a vote to amend the number to 200 signatures on the initial application. The amendment that passed, 3-1, with Hogeland voting against.

The town meeting warrant was trimmed slightly from the draft provided to the Select Board prior to Monday's meeting.

Town Manager Robert Menicocci announced that the petitioners from Sweet Farm Road had withdrawn their request that the town accept the road as a public way.

All but two of the remaining 42 articles were recommended for passage by the Select Board.

Article 41, which was drafted by the Conservation Commission, would place the Spruces Park land under the control of the Con Comm. Members of the Select Board were critical of the proposal when it was presented to the board in February. On Monday, it voted unanimously to recommend against its passage.

On April 11, the Conservation Commission voted unanimously to pull Article 41 from the annual town meeting warrant and, "call upon the Select Board to establish a task force made of representatives of bodies such as the Select Board, Conservation Commission and Agricultural Commission to review existing studies of the Spruces, examine the current situation and propose future management."

Article 43, placed on the warrant by citizens petition, would require the town to place 1.2 acres of town land off Luce Road into permanent conservation. The town acquired the property in 2004 using Community Preservation Act funds for the purpose of conserving open space. Menicocci told the Select Board that his office needed to explore the issue with town counsel in the weeks leading up to town meeting; the Select Board opted to take no advisory vote on the article.
Dalton Green Committee Clarifies Scope of Climate Action Plan

DALTON, Mass.  The Green Committee clarified the scope of the Climate Action Plan during its meeting last week to include climate-related hazard mitigation as one of its priorities.

The primary focus of the request for proposals for the development of an action plan to achieve net zero by 2050 was decarbonization. Climate mitigation was included in the document but was not considered a priority. The deadline for the RFP is April 24.

Everything the community discusses and other towns include mitigation in its Climate Action Plans, Green Committee member Todd Logan said in a follow-up.

Town Manager Thomas Hutcheson received a question from one of the bidders asking if the committee is interested in including mitigation strategies in the proposal.

The committee agreed to include mitigation strategies as one of the lower priorities with respect to things that have not been addressed in other documents like the Hazard Mitigation Plan , the Municipal Vulnerability Plan, and Forest Management Plans, among others.

Climate change poses a risk of wildfires, but it does not appear mitigation efforts have not been thoroughly investigated, Logan said.

One area of concern is that none of the current plans include fuel management, even though the Senior Center, the town's cooling center, abuts a forest where forest fires can occur.

Fuel refers to any dead vegetation, such as leaves, roots, or standing/fallen trees. The risk of a fire outbreak increases when the area experiences abnormally high temperatures. If wind is present, the fire is more likely to spread.

Although you are never going to be able to get rid of all the fuel as it is part of nature, the Green Committee can work with the department to get community volunteers to go out and clean the trails and some of the underbrush.

"There's no perfect answer anything in life, but we can help make it safer  I think the town of Dalton Dalton Fire District, the Green Committee, road and bridge. Every department that services the residents of Dalton has a role to play in keeping the town safe," Fire Chief Christian Tobin said.

"I think if we look at it as a well-tuned transmission, that one gear turns another that if we all pitch in, a lot of hands make for light work."

For example, if someone is burning something in their back yard and has a large pile that the department cant reach with water, the Department of Public Works could help by allowing the department to use vehicles, backhoes, and tractors to put dirt on it.

"Dirt will put out fire just as good as water. It's about utilizing the resources responsibly in each department and being able to work together to do that," Tobin said.

"So everybody has a role and if everybody functions in that role together cooperatively, the better off we'll all be."

The Green Committee will develop educational events to inform residents about climate-related hazard mitigation and ways to address them as part of its on going mission.

The environment and climate is changing, Tobin said.

"It's in the paper every day, we see wild land fires from Hawaii, all the way to the East Coast, from Canada, to Florida, all across this country where communities had been taken unprepared," Tobin said.

It is the Fire Department's priority to make sure residents are burning safety and responsibility and ensure that the town has the resources to respond and mitigate a fire quickly, he said. The quicker the situation is mitigated the sooner everybody can get back to normal life.

Tobin urged the need for the town to invest in equipment to be able to access off road areas that ire engines are not capable of going.

"I'm talking to the Green Committee and want to talk to the town Select Board and the Finance Committee about maybe utilizing [American Rescue Plan funds,] which they still have, which then wouldn't come out of the town's coffers," he said

"It would be using responsibly, the ARPA money that we received from the federal government to properly outfit a wildland vehicle."

The town needs to have a vehicle capable of four-wheel drive that is capable of going into the back trails and hills.

Under Massachusetts General Law, a town is required to have a forest warden, which is Tobin.

Sometimes the responsibilities of the district and the town overlap so addressing these types of emergencies is a shared responsibility "for the community in the common good," Tobin said. "That's where I'm pushing on the town is that there's a responsibility there that can't be ignored. ...

"We dont want to say to the citizens after the fact that the town did not have the right tools and equipment. "Its our responsibility to repair."

The town does not need a whole fleet to be able to handle a situation on its own. It needs to have the resources have an initial response that will keep people safe until, if needed, others can come to the town and help, he said.
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A memoir Alexei Navalny began working on in 2020 will be published this fall.

Patriot, which publisher Alfred A Knopf is calling the late Russian opposition leader's final letter to the world, will come out on 22 October.

Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, said in a statement released Thursday by the publisher: This book is a testament not only to Alexeis life, but to his unwavering commitment to the fight against dictatorship  a fight he gave everything for, including his life.

Through its pages, readers will come to know the man I loved deeply  a man of profound integrity and unyielding courage. Sharing his story will not only honor his memory but also inspire others to stand up for what is right and to never lose sight of the values that truly matter.

Navalny, 47, died in February while serving a 19-year prison sentence on extremism charges that he condemned as politically motivated. He was jailed after returning from Germany in January 2021, where he was recuperating from the 2020 nerve agent poisoning he blamed on the Kremlin, and was given three prison terms since.

Members of the Russian Action Network for Democratic Organizing and Mentoring and the local Russian community hold a memorial for late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny at the "Peace Pole" next to the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington on 1 March 2024 ( AFP via Getty Images )

He died in a remote penal colony above the Arctic Circle. Russian officials have vehemently denied involvement both in the poisoning and in his death.

According to Knopf, Navalny began working on the book in Germany, and continued writing it in Russia, both in and out of prison.

In vivid, page-turning detail, including never-before-seen correspondence from prison, Navalny recounts, among other things, his political career, the many attempts on his life, and the lives of the people closest to him, and the relentless campaign he and his team waged against an increasingly dictatorial regime, Knopf's announcement reads in part.

Written with the passion, wit, candor, and bravery for which he was justly acclaimed, Patriot is Navalnys final letter to the world: a moving account of his last years spent in the most brutal prison on earth; a reminder of why the principles of individual freedom matter so deeply; and a rousing call to continue the work for which he sacrificed his life.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny gestures as he stands in a cage in the Babuskinsky District Court in Moscow, Russia, Saturday, 20 Feb 2021 ( Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

In a thread on X, formerly Twitter, Navalnaya said Thursday that she had envisioned her husband writing a memoir much later in his life, when they're both around 80 and have grandchildren.

Many prompted Navalny to start writing after the poisoning, she said, but he initially brushed off these suggestions: What kind of memoir is it when you're 44? It's only been a little more than half (his) life. He wasn't in a rush  so much was yet to come. But it turned out the way it turned out. Horrible and very, very unfair. It turned out there was no other half ahead.

She said the memoir has already been translated into 11 languages and will definitely be published in Russian, as well. It wasn't clear from her remarks if the book will come out in Russia, however, where Navalny was convicted as a leader of an extremist group, and his foundation and offices were outlawed.
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JK Rowlings stance on using peoples preferred pronouns has taken a U-turn since she first waded into the transgender debate.

While the author, 58, is now describing some trans women as men - even when they have legally changed their gender - she once promised to always respect chosen pronouns.

She made the claim in the podcast docuseries, The Witch Trials of JK Rowling, where she explained why she became involved in transgender issues - despite being a cisgender, straight woman.

The revelation was made when the podcast host, Megan Phelps-Roper, asked Rowling if she could understand the pain her gender-critical views could cause trans women.

Rowling said this was something she very much could understand but with the caveat that it was in reference to old-school transsexuals.

The author elaborated by describing them as people whove been through full sex reassignment because of profound gender dysphoria.

She said: I feel 100 per cent compassion for such people and I would absolutely respect their pronouns always have, always will, and would want, as I say them, to have comfortable, easy lives.

JK Rowlings stance on pronouns has taken a complete u-turn ( Getty Images )

However, just one year after the series of interviews with the author was released, she was the subject of a major trans rights storm when she misgendered a trans woman.

Commenting on Scotlands new Hate Crime Act, Rowling referred to trans women as men before challenging the police to arrest her.

This was done via posting an X/Twitter list of trans women including the trans TV presenter, India Willoughby, who pointed out she is legally recognised as a female.

Many of the women on the list - which implied trans women are predators and The Independent has chosen not to share - had also gone through sex reassignment surgery.

The Harry Potter author became further embroiled in the online row with Willoughby when she referred to the Loose Women host as a man and with he pronouns.

JK Rowling believes she is defending womens rights ( @jk_rowling/Twitter )

The broadcaster, who holds a gender recognition certificate, was accused by Rowling of cosplaying a misogynistic male fantasy of what a woman is.

Since then, the author has repeatedly used male pronouns when referring to trans women online, telling her millions of followers that her involvement in the issue stems from a desire to protect womens rights.

She believed she was vindicated in this issue too when Scottish police decided to take no further action when her tweets about transgender people were reported.

The author made the arrest me challenge in light of the new Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act 2021, which came into force on 1 April.

It states that it is now a crime to stir up hatred based on protected characteristics like gender identity.

She later tweeted: I hope every woman in Scotland who wishes to speak up for the reality and importance of biological sex will be reassured by this announcement, and I trust that all women  irrespective of profile or financial means - will be treated equally under the law.

If they go after any woman for simply calling a man a man, Ill repeat that womans words and they can charge us both at once.

One stance from the podcast which has remained consistent, however, is Rowlings belief that transgender women are infringing upon the rights of cisgender women and girls.

The author said shed never forgive the Harry Potter actors who disagreed with her ( David Fisher/Shutterstock )

She said: I can understand that hurt [when trans women are misgendred]. The thing is women are the only group to my knowledge that are being asked to embrace members of their oppressor class, unquestioningly, with no caveat.

This movement has argued, continues to argue, that a man may have had no surgery whatsoever, but if he feels himself to be a woman, the door of every womans bathroom, changing room, rape centre should be open to him.

And I say no, Im afraid I say no. And we are in a cultural moment where that individuals hurt is being prioritised over the hurt of women whose rights and boundaries are under sustained assault, and I think its interesting to ask why the pain of one group is being prioritised over the pain of other groups.

In one of her most recent posts on the subject, the author decided to describe trans women as trans-identified men.

Referring to transgender model Munroe Bergdorf, Rowling explained that even if trans women have sex reassignment surgery, cisgender women dont have to agree that they are women.

The author wrote: Femaleness has no relation whatsoever to how well an individual - man or woman - performs femininity to male standards. This is the very definition of misogyny.

The revelation comes a day after Rowling told Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson to save their apologies as their relationships continue to sour over their positions on trans rights.

The author, who once had a close relationship with the pair when they starred in the film adaptations of her wizarding world novels, criticised the stars in the wake of a landmark review into gender treatment in the UK.

Rowling, who first faced a backlash from several key cast members when she shared controversial remarks about the trans community in 2020, has seen her relationship with stars deteriorate amid increasingly toxic debate.

The author criticised celebrities who supported the transitioning of children, suggesting she would not forgive Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson for their stances in the debate.

The Independent has reached out to representatives for JK Rowling for comment.
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Could the Avengers be returning? A possible reunion has been teased in a forthcoming new Marvel film.

On Thursday (11 April), after the release of a first look at Gladiator II, Las Vegas event CinemaCon welcomed Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige to present footage from forthcoming film Captain America: Brave New World.

The film, following on from the 2021 Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, sees Anthony Mackie succeed Chris Evanss Steve Rogers as Captain America following his departure from the franchise.

Brave New World also marks Harrison Fords debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). He will star in the recast role of Thaddeus Thunderbolt Ross, who was originally played by the late William Hurt in Avengers: Endgame.

CinemaCon is an event attended by cinema exhibitors around the world, designed to show off the films set to be released in the next year.

In the first Captain America: Brave New World footage, Ross, who is the MCUs US president, could be seen being saved from a group of assassins, after which the character tells Wilson something that will get Marvel fans quite hyped: I want Captain America to help me rebuild the Avengers.

At one stage in the footage, Ross also harshly snipes at Wilson: Youre not Steve Rogers, to which he replies: Youre right, Im not.

Danny Ramirez and Shira Haas also star in the film, directed by The Cloverfield Paradoxs Julius Onah. Liv Tyler and Tim Blake Nelson, meanwhile, will reprise their roles from 2008 film The Incredible Hulk.

Variety reports that Feige described Captain America: Brave New World as another fast-paced, relatively grounded action thriller that features no aliens.

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The film, which originally had the subtitle New World Order, is set to be released on 14 February 2025.

open image in gallery Anthony Mackie in Captain America: Brave New World ( Marvel Studios )

The only Marvel Cinematic Universe film set for a 2024 release is a third Deadpool film, titled Deadpool and Wolverine, which will arrive in cinemas on 26 July.
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Ridley Scott hasopened up about his nightmare experience filming Alien.

The veteran director, 86, made the revelation when reflecting on his decades-long career, explaining that prior to making a name for himself, he had to justify his every decision on set.

He said this was particularly apparent while making 1979s Alien, which is now considered to be one of the most influential sci-fi films ever made.

The early days, when I hadnt made a name for myself [were the most challenging], he told The Telegraph.

Doing Alien was a bit of a nightmare, because every move I had to explain I was 42 years old and independently well off, so I dont want a Hollywood producer telling me what to do Doing The Duellists [his first feature film] Im asked stupid questions. Doing Alien Im asked even bigger stupid questions. So I get ferocious.

Thankfully, the award-winning director has admitted that he is not questioned these days and said its one of the many benefits of getting older - that and increased confidence.

open image in gallery The Hollywood legend wasnt always trusted to make the right decision ( Invision )

It is perhaps this confidence that has seen him step out of the world of filmmaking to produce his own wines.

Scott and his family have made red, white and rose wines in the South of France that first hit British shelves at the end of last year.

When asked about Brad Pitts foray into the world of alcohol (a project he began with ex-wife Angelina Jolie), Scott admitted that he doesnt know the actor, 60, well enough to discuss their shared interest.

He said: I dont know him well enough to talk about that. Ive only worked with him twice.

In Thelma & Louise Brad was then an extra and I couldnt find the guy [to play JD, the convicted robber and Thelmas one-night stand]. Brad looked right. But then, can he act? And his humour got me immediately. Very laid-back  17 minutes of cinema history right there.

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open image in gallery Ridley Scott took a chance on Brad Pitt and it paid off ( AFP via Getty Images )

Scott then briefly touched upon his own mortality and said he would like his children to be more involved in his wine business.

Id like them to be more involved. Listen, dude, the big red bus could hit me any time, youd better start paying attention. Im always alive to the big red bus.

This interview comes ahead of the hotly-anticipated Gladiator 2, which is being released this November.

The film has already stunned CinemaCon who praised the ripped Paul Mescal and Joseph Quinns sinister performance.

It is possibly even more extraordinary than the first, Scott said in a video message at the annual event attended by cinema exhibitors in Las Vegas. [It] is well worth the wait.
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Folk music legend Linda Thompson has opened up about the sexist treatment she and her female contemporaries received from their fellow musicians at the height of their fame.

Thompson rose to fame in the Seventies with her then-husband, Richard Thompson from the band Fairport Convention, releasing a number of critically adored albums including 1974s I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight.

However, despite her success, Thompson said she struggled with the attitudes of the time: Some of the most talented and savvy people Ive known were riddled with insecurities, she told The Guardian.

Sandy [Denny] never felt pretty enough or whatever. Everybody wanted to be six stone and look like Twiggy and its not doable: I know; I tried. And these were very sexist times. She was in a mans world so she drank and presented a front.

Thompson continued: In those days, if Sandy and I were in the studio and there was a tea break, there was no question it would be us making the tea. Some idiot playing a nose harp would just sit there: Two sugars, love. We were tough, but we crumbled.

She had similar experiences after Richard moved Thompson and their children into a Sufi community in Norfolk, an experience she describes as f***ing torture.

It was in Norfolk, a big house that looked like the Bates motel in Psycho, she told The Guardian. It was f***ing torture. not for the men. We were kept in the kitchen, it was just kind of keeping women down. We werent allowed to go shopping because you werent allowed to look a man in the eye.

She and Richard divorced in 1982, soon after which they embarked on what was known as the Tour from Hell in support of the album they made about their breakup, Shoot Out the Lights.

Im a show-off, Thompson responded in a 2007 interview with The Independent, when asked about why she decided to tour with her new ex-husband. And maybe, as well as being cathartic, it was pathetic as well: we had kids and maybe I thought that if we did the tour, Richard whod just left me  would change his mind. Yes, it was very pathetic.

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Thompsons new album, Proxy Music, enlists artists including Rufus Wainwright, John Grant, The Proclaimers and The Unthanks for new songs written by Thompson, due in part to the effects Spasmodic Dysphonia has had on her voice. It is scheduled for release on 21 June.
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Hot Ones fans are in stitches over Conan OBriens appearance on the popular First We Feast YouTube series, with many labelling it the best episode.

The former Late Night host and comedian, 60, was the latest celebrity to take the hot seat on Sean Evanss famous interview show, which sees guests answer tough questions while eating chicken wings topped with progressively spicier hot sauces.

Asked about his comfort level with spicy food, OBrien responds: I grew up in an Irish Catholic home in Boston. I never saw a spice until I was about 52 years old.

Before getting started, the former Tonight Show host introduced his personal physician, Dr Arroyo, who took a baseline read of OBriens temperature before admitting he had no medical qualifications.

Despite his obviously low tolerance, OBrien continued to boast about how well he was handling the heat.

I dont think theres a wing here that I cant eat like its ice cream, he says. Seriously, I dont think theres a wing on this table that I cannot devour like its cool whipped cream!

By the end of the episode, the comedian was a mess with orange hot sauce dripping down his chin.

Im fine! he screams at the end. Im perfectly f***ing fine! You didnt come up with one wing that had an effect on Conan, cuz hes here to stay.

Following the release of the episode, several X users were quick to heap praise on OBrien for his appearance.

Conan OBrien on Hot Ones is pure comedic genius, one wrote.

This may have been the best episode of hot ones Ive ever seen. Conan is a national treasure, said another.

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A third added: An absolute masterclass in television. I laughed from start to finish.

Earlier this week, OBrien, who is currently doing press for his forthcoming travel series, Conan OBrien Must Go, made his triumphant return to The Tonight Show for the first time in 14 years since his abrupt exit as host in 2010.

I havent been in this building for such a long time, and I havent been on this floor in forever, OBrien told host Jimmy Fallon, adding that it felt weird to come back.

Conan OBrien Must Go debuts on 18 April on Max in the US. The series will follow OBrien as he travels to locations such as Ireland, Thailand, Argentina and Norway and takes in the local culture, cuisine, and sights.
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Joe Biden has said Washingtons commitment to defending its allies in East Asia was ironclad as he promised to back Philippines against Chinas attacks in the disputed South China Sea.

The US president met Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday as tensions and concerns about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific continued to surge.

The United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, the US president said during his first-ever trilateral summit with the leaders from both the Asian nations.

As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty, Mr Biden said.

The naval forces of China and Philippines have had direct confrontation in the South China Sea, especially in the disputed reef of Second Thomas. While Beijing claims direct ownership of the submerged reef, the Philippines has a garrison sitting atop a grounded warship in the waters.

open image in gallery US President Joe Biden speaks to the press with Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida (R) and Filipino president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (L) ahead of a trilateral meeting at the White House in Washington, DC, on 11 April 2024 ( AFP via Getty Images )

The White House has called the trilateral meeting as a potent response from the US, Japan and the Philippines to Chinas repeated intimidation attempts. A Biden administration official said that this first-ever meeting will send a message that China is the outlier in the neighbourhood.

According to a statement from the White House, Mr Biden and Mr Marcos during the talks underscored their commitment to international law in the South China Sea and reaffirmed their countries treaty obligations to defend each other.

Japan, Philippines and the US will also hold joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific region this year, a form of a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in the waters near the South China Sea.

The US Coast Guard will welcome members from the Philippine and Japanese coast guard onto their vessel during the patrol for training, the White House said.

Mr Biden also announced that the three nations were launching a new economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment that would help develop clean energy, port, agriculture and other projects in the country.

The US president added that the three leaders were forging a new era and predicted a great deal of history in our world will be written in the Indo-Pacific in the coming years.

This is a landmark visit for Mr Kishida who also attended a glitzy dinner at the White House on Wednesday after one-on-one talks concluded.

He is the first Japanese leader to visit Washington as a state guest since former prime minister Shinzo Abe in 2015 who revised the interpretation of Japans pacifist Constitution to allow its self-defense-only principle to also cover its ally, the US.
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A Portuguese man has been sentenced in Hong Kong for posting pro-independence content on social media, becoming the first European to be punished under the controversial China-imposed national security law.

Joseph John, also known as Wong Kin-Chung, has dual citizenship of Portugal and Hong Kong. He was sentenced to five years in jail on Thursday for incitement to secession under the stringent law.

Under the law, which has been used to silence critics and pro-democracy voices, secession is the offence of advocating for Hong Kong to break away from China.

John was arrested in 2022 after he returned to Hong Kong to visit his family. He was charged for posting pro-independence and anti-China content on social media.

The 41-year-old had been running social media activities and a website for a political group called the Hong Kong Independence Party. The groups website was registered in the UK where he was previously based.

The group advocated for foreign intervention in Chinas rule over Hong Kong following the 2019 pro-democracy protests.

The prosecution outlined 42 posts on the partys social media handles that they considered secessionist, including calls for the UK and US to send troops to Hong Kong and crowdfunding to build an army for Hong Kong.

The pages were shut down in 2022 when John returned to Hong Kong to visit his ailing mother. But he was arrested by the authorities during his trip.

Following months-long investigation during which remained in custody, John pleaded guilty to inciting secession in February and was convicted in March.

In his sentencing trial on Thursday, Judge Ernest Lin said John had distorted history, demonised China, and appealed to foreign countries to destroy [Hong Kong] and China by political or simply violent means.

Those posts lent excuses to foreign politicians ... to criticize, boycott and even suppress China and (Hong Kong) in the name of helping Hong Kong, Mr Lin said.

He was sentenced to five years in prison under the stringent act, a common punishment for serious cases.

open image in gallery Protest against Hong Kong's new Article 23 national security law in Taipei ( REUTERS )

John was denied bail several times during his 16-month custody which has become a standard practice in Hong Kong for defendants in cases relating to the national security law.

He was also denied consular access, according to Portuguese officials, as Beijing does not allow dual citizenship.

Representatives from Portugal and the European Union were present in the Hong Kong District Court on Thursday.

Since the enactment of the controversial law in 2020, in response to the massive pro-democracy protests, this is believed to be the first time a European citizen has been sentenced.

However, approximately 300 people have been arrested so far under the law until 31 January 2023, according to Hong Kong Security Bureau.

The act, widely criticised by EU and United Nations as deeply worrying, criminalises anything that relates to treason, sabotage, sedition, the theft of state secrets, external interference and espionage with sentences ranging from several years to life imprisonment.

Critics say the act is vaguely worded and makes it easy for authorities to target individuals who criticse the authorities.
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Police in Japan are looking for a man accused of stealing a golden teacup worth 52,100 from a luxury department store in Tokyo.

The teacup, made of 24-carat gold, was being displayed in an outlet of the Takashimaya departmental store chain along with other old items as part of the Grand Gold Exhibition.

Local media reported that the exhibition features over 1,000 pieces, including oval gold koban coins widely used in the Edo Period (1603-1868), and also includes teaware, tableware, and other artefacts.

An employee from the store, which is in Tokyos Nihonbashi district, discovered the theft and reported it to the police a little after 12 noon on Thursday.

The retailer said: It was kept in an unlocked transparent box at the time, so it could be taken out easily for customers to take a close look.

The thief was caught on security footage and can be seen putting the cup in his bag before fleeing, reported local media. The theft is currently under investigation and the police have said the suspect appears to be a man in his 20s or 30s, and was dressed in a grey sweatshirt and black pants and carried a grey backpack.

The tea cup was created by Koichi Ishikawa, a renowned goldsmith, reported The Japan Times. His craftsmanship won him the esteemed Tokyo Governor's Award in 1988.

The exhibition also features a traditional Japanese screen valued at over 100 million yen (522,980) and a 2.1-metre-high golden dragon figure decorated with a round, 3,000-fold leaf piece valued at 38 million yen (198,778).

Among concerns, Takashimaya, Japans version of Harrods, said they will continue to display the rest of the artefacts but will increase security preparations.

Despite security being present, the store said no one noticed the theft until around 20 minutes after the theft took place.

In December, Takashimaya officials had to apologise for delivering hundreds of collapsed strawberry Christmas cakes. Out of the 2,900 cakes that were delivered in the run-up to Christmas, 807 arrived damaged, sparking an immediate social media backlash.

The store said it had betrayed the expectations of many and senior managing director Kazuhisa Yokoyama held a news conference in Tokyo and bowed deeply to customers to show his remorse.
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Russia issued urgent calls for residents of the southern city of Orenburg to evacuate immediately on Friday as water levels rose dramatically overnight amid the worst floods in the region in decades.

Authorities called for the mass evacuation of parts of Orenburg, which is home to half a million people, as the Ural River reached 11m and 43cm or just over 37ft on Friday.

This was up from 10.87m reported a day earlier, sparking concerns over a potentially perilous situation.

The region of Orenburg has seen several areas completely submerged under water with thousands of people already evacuated since Ural broke its banks.

Rapidly warming temperatures melted heavy snow and ice and dislodged trapped water and mud in places.

Water levels have been rising in another Russian region  Kurgan and in neighbouring Kazakhstan  which is also flooded, leading to authorities evacuating at least 100,000 people.

Theres a siren going off in the city. This is not a drill. Theres a mass evacuation in progress, Sergei Salmin, the citys mayor, said on the Telegram messenger app.

The flood situation in Orenburg is extremely dangerous. Over the last 10 hours, the water level in the Ural river has risen by 40cm and now stands at 1,143cm. These levels are dangerous.

He called on residents to gather their documents, medicines, and essential items and to abandon their homes.

Alexei Kudinov, Orenburgs deputy mayor, said earlier that over 360 houses and nearly 1,000 plots of land had been flooded overnight.

He said the deluge was expected to reach its peak on Friday and start subsiding in two days time.

The village of Kaminskoye in the Kurgan region was also being evacuated on Friday morning after the water level there rose 1.4m (4.59 ft) overnight, Kurgans regional governor Vadim Shumkov said on the Telegram messaging app.

We can only hope the floodplain stretches wide and the ground absorbs as much water as possible in its way, he said, adding that a dam was being reinforced in Kurgan.

Kurgan is home to a key part of Russias military-industrial complex - a giant factory that produces infantry fighting vehicles for the army which are in high demand in Ukraine where the Russian military is on the offensive in some areas.

There were no reports that the factory, Kurganmashzavod, had so far been affected.

Earlier, Russia declared a federal state of emergency in the Orenburg region, a move that allows federal forces to get involved in efforts to combat the flooding.

Additional reporting by agencies
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Giorgio Armani has paid tribute to fellow Italian fashion designer and true artist Roberto Cavalli, who has died aged 83.

Cavalli, whose death was announced by his company on Friday, became renowned in the early 1970s for his animal prints and for a sexy style that remained his trademark throughout his long career.

In a post shared by the Armani account on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Armani said: I cannot imagine a vision of fashion more distant from mine than that of Roberto Cavalli, yet I have always had enormous respect for him: Roberto was a true artist, wild and wonderful in his use of prints, capable of transforming fantasy into seductive clothes.

I have learnt with great sadness of his passing: his Tuscan verve will be greatly missed.

Brazilian model Adriana Lima said alongside a picture of her and Cavalli on X: Unapologetic in style & spirit. We lost a legend today. Rest in Peace, @Roberto_Cavalli.

A host of celebrities including Maya Jama attended the Roberto Cavalli Fall 2024 Ready-to-Wear shoot in February.

Last month, Dune actress Zendaya wore vintage Cavalli at the Green Carpet Fashion Awards.

She sported a grey fringed Roberto Cavalli gown from the spring/summer 2011 collection, with a deep-V neckline and an open back.

Sex And The Citys famously fashion-first lead character Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, notably wore a Cavalli top in an episode of the series.

We had that top for years in our wardrobe; I think we bought it at a sample sale, Rebecca Weinberg, one of the SATC costume designers told InStyle last month during an interview about the shows fashionable moments.

Creative director at Roberto Cavalli Fausto Puglisi paid tribute and said it was his greatest honour to work alongside the fashion designer.

An Instagram post shared images of quotes from Cavalli and captioned the post remembering the designer.

Mr Puglisi wrote: Dear Roberto, you may not be physically here with us anymore but I know I will feel your spirit with me always.

It is the greatest honour of my career to work under your legacy and to create for the brand you founded with such vision and style.

Rest in peace you will be missed and you are loved by so many that your name will continue on, a beacon of inspiration for others, and especially for me.

The caption also shared a tribute from Sergio Azzolari, chief executive at Roberto Cavalli, which reads: The Roberto Cavalli company shares condolences with Mr Cavallis family loss.

His legacy remains a constant source of inspiration.

On the big screen, Eva Green, the first Bond girl of the Daniel Craig era, made waves in a purple Roberto Cavalli dress with a jewelled neckline.

Kim Kardashian opted for a Cavalli design from Peter Dundas, who was the brands creative director from 2015 to 2016 and again in 2020, for the Met Gala in 2015, wearing a white, body-fitting gown with a feathered train.
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Norways health minister resigned Friday, the second Norwegian government member to step down this year amid allegations they plagiarized academic works.

Ingvild Kjerkol resigned a day after a probe by Nord University in Bodoe in northern Norway, where Kjerkol, handed in her master thesis in 2021, concluded that there is a not insignificant amount of plagiarism in her masters thesis."

We have come to the conclusion that Ingvild should resign as minister, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre told a press conference. He said the probe had concluded the plagiarism was intentional.

Kjerkoll said she and a co-author did not intend to plagiarize other peoples assignments.

Although it hurts not to be believed, we have to deal with the fact that (the university) is of a different opinion, she said at a joint press conference with Gahr Stre.

The 48-year-old Kjerkol has been in office since October 2021 when Gahr Stre presented a coalition government of his own Labor party and the junior Center Party.

Kjerkol is the second government member to be entangled in academic plagiarism allegations this year.

In January, Sandra Borch stepped down as minister for research and higher education after a student discovered that parts of Borchs masters thesis, including spelling mistakes, were copied without attribution from a different author.

Gahr Stres coalition has seen the departure of several ministers in recent months over other wrongdoings. In September, it was revealed that the husband of then Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt had been trading in stocks for years behind her back and that could potentially enrich her.

In September, the ruling social democratic Labor party was defeated in local elections by the conservative Hoeyre, the main opposition party, for the first time since 1924. The party, which for decades was Norways largest party in local elections, came in second in the Sept. 11 elections for local councils in Norways 356 municipalities and 11 counties.
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Jurors in the case of an Arizona rancher charged with fatally shooting a migrant on his property near the U.S.-Mexico border visited the scene of the killing as the third week of the trial wrapped up.

Court officials on Thursday took jurors in a van to view various locations at George Alan Kellys ranch, as well as a section of the border. Superior Court Judge Thomas Fink denied news media requests to tag along.

The case in Nogales, Arizona, has attracted national attention as border security becomes an increasingly important issue in this years presidential contest.

Fink said this week that the case was taking longer than he hoped and he would start imposing time limits on testimony to ensure that the case goes to the jury next Thursday.

Kelly, 75, is charged with the second-degree murder of 48-year-old Gabriel Cuen-Buitimea, a Mexican citizen. Kelly has said he fired warning shots in the air, but didnt shoot directly at anyone.

Cuen-Buitimea was in a group of migrants Kelly encountered on his nearly 170-acre (69-hectare) cattle ranch. Prosecutors have said Kelly recklessly fired an AK-47 rifle toward the migrants, who were about 100 yards (90 meters) away, but Kelly and his defense team reject that narrative.

Jury visits to crime scenes are relatively rare, but Fink has suggested that the jurors in this case would get a better sense of how events were seen on the day of the shooting by various people who have testified.

In 2018, federal jurors in the trial of a U.S. Border Patrol agent charged in the fatal shooting of a teen across the Mexican border also in the Nogales, Arizona, area were taken to the scene of the shooting after dark to observe conditions as they may have been at the time. Former agent Lonnie Schwartz was acquitted in the killing of 16-year-old Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez when jurors failed to reach a verdict on a voluntary manslaughter charge.

Kelly was arrested and charged last year in the Jan. 30, 2023, fatal shooting of Cuen-Buitimea, who lived in Nogales, Mexico, just south of the border.

The bullet that killed Cuen-Buitimea was not found in the body or at the scene.
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Belarusian authorities on Friday convicted a famous dissident rock band, designating the band and its three members as extremist and sentencing them to two years of correctional labor. It was the latest in a yearslong crackdown on dissent that has engulfed this country of 9.5 million people.

Nizkiz band members  Alyaksandr Ilyin, Siarhei Kulsha and Dzmitry Khalyaukin  were charged with organizing and plotting actions grossly violating public order.

In 2020, when Belarus was rocked by mass protests that erupted after President Alexander Lukashenko won a sixth term in office in a disputed election, the band released Rules, a song that became the protests' anthem. A music video for the song was filmed at one of the demonstrations against the country's authoritarian leader.

Lukashenko's government unleashed a brutal crackdown in response to the protests, arresting more than 35,000 people and violently beating thousands. Many have been labeled as extremists," a designation frequently used against critics. The repressions have continued to this day.

In addition to the sentencing, the band and the musicians were also added to the state registry of extremists, which effectively means a ban on its songs and exposes Nizkiz's fans to prosecution.

The band was founded in 2008 in the city of Mogilev in the east of the country. In January 2024, Ilyin, Kulsha and Khalyaukin were arrested and initially faced petty charges, but then authorities opened a criminal case against them. They have been behind bars since then.

In February, the Viasna human rights center declared them political prisoners. According to the group, which is the oldest and the most prominent in the country, there are currently 1,387 political prisoners in Belarus, including Viasna's founder Ales Bialiatsky, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022.

Belarus' opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Friday urged musicians around the world to express solidarity with their Belarusian colleagues, who were convicted over the songs of freedom.

The Belarusian regime continues a ruthless attack on our culture, Tsikhanouskaya said in written comments sent to The Associated Press.

Nizkiz's songs sounded during the 2020 protests," she said. "That's why the members of this popular band were brutally detained in their apartments and then convicted. It is yet another shameful act of the regime's revenge.
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The NHS has come under additional scrutiny this week, following comments from shadow health secretary Wes Streeting.

On Monday, Streeting warned the NHS will get no extra funding from Labour without major surgery or reform, including more use of the private sector.

Public satisfaction with the NHS at lowest level on record

We asked Independent readers how they felt the NHS could be improved, and whether a total reform of the service was necessary.

Some argued against significant reforms, emphasizing the importance of proper funding and reducing bureaucracy within the NHS.

Many cautioned against privatisation, while others stressed the need for better working conditions for healthcare staff and improved infrastructure, such as more modern hospitals.

Concerns were also raised about the balance between managerial roles and frontline healthcare providers, as well as the consequences of whistleblowing and the potential loss of NHS principles.

Heres what you had to say:

What kind of healthcare does society want?

Deep breath. The first thing to do is to try and identify what kind of healthcare society wants and what it is willing to give up to achieve that. Part, but only part, of that is who pays? Is it to be paid for out of current income or future income (debt) to be paid for by future generations?

The second thing is how do you impose discipline on the provision of a service that is either wholly funded or partially funded by the state. What stops it being self-indulgent, complacent and lazy, and what drives it to strive every minute of every day to do its best to make its patients satisfied?

The third thing is how do you encourage healthy practices that reduce demand for health services? Which models do the most for promoting self-care and reduce a kind of state healthcare provision dependency whereby responsibility for health is farmed out to a third party? Finally, none of these questions can be answered without thinking about what the alternatives are, how their efficiency and effectiveness compares, and what the barriers to change are.

Bruxellois

Less managers

The NHS doesnt need reforming, what it does need is doctors, nurses and assorted clinicians and far less managers; the last time I checked there was a manager of some sort for every four staff.

TomSnout

The NHS does not need root and branch reform

The NHS does not need root and branch reform. Apart from anything else, reform takes time and money, the NHS has neither of these things.

Let us face facts, when the (soft, firm and hard) right say reform they mean scrapped. Perhaps more accurately they mean the founding principles of free at the point of delivery needs to be scrapped.

You can hide behind all the rhetoric you want, you can string all the usual platitudes about illegal immigrants, freeloaders, self-inflicted, blah, blah, blah at the end of the day, at some point removing the free at the point of use principle will mean that normal decent, people will be denied healthcare at some level because it is unaffordable to them.

What Streetings middle class, lefties need to confront is what those socially liberal, decent Tories at the dinner party mean by modernise is that they want a tax cut and if poor people suffer so much the better.

It is rather strange that those paitriots who find hot tick buns and purplish St George flags so objectionable are willing to abandon a uniquely British institution designed during the Second World War on British culture?

Anyone who thinks our NHS needs a whole raft of health insurance bureaucracy welded onto the side, and then expect a better outcome are deluding themselves.

Jim987

Healthcare shouldnt be about personal profit

The NHS needs to be properly funded. The current government provide 1.5% funding per year when 3.5% funding at least is needed.

Protect whistleblowers. Doctors, nurses and care assistants have raised concerns about patient care but have then been sacked. Rather than cover-ups, support for whistleblowers would protect patients and enhance NHS care.

Stop entrepreneurs like Branson and Mone bidding for NHS contracts: healthcare shouldnt be about personal profit/gain.

As for the suggestion by the shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting about using the private health sector, as private hospitals stand, its unsafe and unworkable; private hospitals dont have A&E nor critical care facilities as backup unlike NHS hospitals. Furthermore, there is only a skeleton staff at night, no doctors to oversee patient care; if anything goes wrong, the patient has to be ferried to an NHS hospital for care. Better to keep patients within a well-funded and well-structured NHS. Keep the private sector completely separate.

Benitas

The peoples health should be a cooperative venture

If the UK experience of NHS reform is the template Solzhenitsyn is bang on the money. Health is not a good to be traded in the marketplace. The creation of an internal market has not led to improved outcomes for patients but increased profits for players. The most obvious example being PFI which is not unlike borrowing from loan sharks. More and more loans become necessary to service earlier loans.

The peoples health should be a cooperative venture not a competitive venture.

PinkoRadical

Big is not always better

The problem with using private hospitals is that it makes NHS waiting lists longer. The consultants in the private sector are the same consultants practicing in the NHS, consequently more private patients equals consultants spending more time in private practice and less in NHS.

Consultants need to be made to provide a minimum number of hours in NHS medicine or leave it altogether and promote the registrars to consultant posts. It also may be better to split up the regional services into more smaller units. Big is not always better. The regions have continued to centralise services making it more difficult for people in outlying areas. The old model of a matron also worked very well and should be considered again.

Stardust

Kicking the can down the road

Using the private sector usually boils down to getting the private sector to provide the upfront cash required, which they do in exchange for profits over the longer term. The most famous example is the PFI hospital building which has cost us a considerable amount more in the long term.

Its not a fix, it just kicks the can down the road, causing long-term budget issues and is poor value for money.

The Mark in remarkable

Cut the bureaucracy

Just cut the bureaucracy. Internal market dogma has almost brought the NHS to its knees. All levels of staff spend more time on paperwork than on delivering care.

Paul

Invest

Instead of reducing N.I. contributions the money should have been invested in NHS. Unless the intention from the government is to sell it off to the US and other foreign companies.

Worker

Look elsewhere before taking a saw to the NHS

The NHS provides a core functionality and should not be changed. I disagree strongly with Labour that the NHS is suffering from 1948 organization syndrome. Other countries do it differently, and this is shown in the performance tables where the UK languishes at the bottom of most of them.

Germany has a strong network of independent medical specialists that take patients under the governments legally required insurance scheme, as well as private schemes. Later in life people often suffer being in the private schemes as they can no longer afford them, in early life the private schemes cost less than the legally required schemes.

Laws are changing in Germany, but patients can go directly to specialists. For example, if I developed a cataract I would just go direct to the eye doctor. This relieves both the GPs and hospitals of unnecessary load. It could be argued the small specialist clinics are more efficient than the hospitals. For something standard like a cataract operation in Germany, this is now a conveyor belt operation outside of the hospitals.

Anything difficult with such an operation still ends up with the hospitals. The same applies to many frequent ageing illnesses, and specialists outside of the hospitals handle them. The UK should check other systems before taking any saw to the NHS, as the finest of surgical changes will be more successful, and that requires careful analysis and consultation.

MP

Postcode lottery

The NHS cannot be run like a business which is what the Tories tried to do. Too much money spent on bureaucracy towards that end. There needs to be a review to retain what is necessary and discard what isnt.

Healthcare has become a postcode lottery and this should not be the case. Failing hospitals need to be given detailed plans to resolve their identified issues within a timeframe and to be reviewed without notice within that time. Not all healthcare staff are angels and some are incompetent and a threat to their patients. The competent ones are leaving and the reasons are heartbreaking; their concerns for patient care are being ignored or they are being forced out. Whistleblowing can have dire consequences in hospitals with a toxic management culture. Standardized treatment protocols may be useful as some hospitals do not appear to have them or are ignoring them if they do.

Cutting waiting lists would have to involve triaging patients in terms of urgency and perhaps identifying hospitals with shorter waiting lists and available beds to send them to. The other major issue is bed blockers, and that means sorting out social services also so suitable accommodation can be found in order to free beds. The Tories destroyed a vital functioning national resource and a somnolent populace couldnt see it.

Galileo666

Hospitals are overloaded

Should the NHS be reformed to improve service?

Many have tried and failed.

Until its recognised that the NHS is dealing with people and unpredictable events, nothing will change. You can plan as much as you like but no-one can forecast a major incident that fills all the hospitals in a region on a Saturday night when fewer doctors are working or the outbreak of a disease, virus etc. that closes a hospital down and so on. Until the planners see this and its calculated in nothing can change.

It isnt only about money. Its about working conditions. The only way to improve things is to include those working in the NHS in discussions about change.

The hospitals are simply overloaded. There has to be a better system for dealing with those who dont need to go to hospital but do because they simply cant get help anywhere else. There should be more day clinics for routine surgery where people arrive in the morning and depart later after treatment instead of having to go to hospital in the first place. It operates well in other countries.

How any of it can be achieved without the new, modern, well-equipped hospitals the Tories promised but didnt deliver, is hard to see!

Amibigirls

Some of the comments have been edited for this article. You can read the full discussion in the comments section of the original article.

All you have to do is sign up, submit your question and register your details - then you can then take part in the discussion. You can also sign up by clicking log in on the top right-hand corner of the screen.
 Close Moment Constance Marten arrested by police

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The judge is summing up the evidence as the trial of aristocrat Constance Marten and her partner Mark Gordon over the death of their baby enters its final stages.

The couple is accused of gross negligence manslaughter of the newborn, whom they took off-grid to stop her from being taken into care like their four other children.

The Recorder of London, Judge Mark Lucraft KC, began summing up the evidence to the jury at the Old Bailey on Thursday. Evidence recapped so far includes eyewitness Ken Hudson, who stopped to help the couple when their car caught fire on the M61 near Bolton on 5 January.

Mr Hudson previously told the court he fears baby Victoria would still be alive if he had stayed at the roadside with the parents until police arrived. But the pair fled with baby Victoria after he pulled away, leaving their burning car at the roadside along with most of their possessions.

Police later found 2000 in cash, Martens passport, 34 burner phones and a placenta wrapped in a towel in the burnt-out vehicle.

Marten, 36, and Gordon, 49, both deny the charges of gross negligence manslaughter of Victoria between 4 January and 27 February last year. They also deny charges of perverting the course of justice by concealing the body, concealing the birth of a child, child cruelty, and allowing the death of a child.

The trial continues.
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A gang have been jailed after they fired a sawn-off shotgun into a funeral crowd and left a little girl with a shotgun pellet embedded in a muscle close to her heart.

Four women and two girls, aged 11 and seven, were injured when the drive-by shooting opened fire on mourners at a funeral for a mother and her daughter at St Aloysius Church in Phoenix Road, Euston, in January 2023. They were hurt just as the crowd turned to view white doves being released into the sky.

Tyrell Lacroix, 23, a well-known drill rapper using the name T. Scam; Jashy Perch, 20; Jordan Walters, 24; and Alrico Nelson-Martin, 20; were sentenced for conspiracy to wound with intent to cause serious harm, at Kingston Crown Court on Friday.

Tyrell Lacroix, one of four men who have been jailed after a funeral drive-by shooting left a little girl with a shotgun pellet embedded in a muscle close to her heart. ( Metropolitan Police/PA Wire )

Perch was also sentenced for having an offensive weapon and for possession of cannabis. While Nelson-Martin was also sentenced for possession of a shotgun with intent to endanger life.

Lacroix was jailed for 21 years with a further five years on licence, Perch was jailed for 16 years with a further four years on licence, Walters was jailed for 13 years, and Nelson-Martin was jailed for 14 years.

The shooting took place outside St Aloysius Church in Phoenix Road, Euston (Yui Mok/PA) ( PA Wire )

The court heard that one of the little girls sustained gunshot wounds to her arms, legs, and pelvic region, as well as one pellet lodging in a muscle next to her heart.

In a victim impact statement, the girls mother said she had asked her, Mummy, why has this happened to me?

Jashy Perch, one of four men who have been jailed after a funeral drive-by shooting left a little girl with a shotgun pellet embedded in a muscle close to her heart. ( Metropolitan Police/PA Wire )

The mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: She felt like she had done something wrong and could not understand why.

She added that the incident had taken away her daughters innocence.

One of the women was also left with serious injuries that have affected her hearing and balance.

Alrico Nelson-Martin sentenced for conspiracy to wound with intent to cause serious harm ( Metropolitan Police/PA Wire )

In a victim impact statement, she said: I am half the woman I was before.

The memorial service was a requiem Mass for Sara Sanchez, 20, and her mother, Fresia Calderon, 50, who died in November 2022.

Ms Sanchez had suffered from leukaemia for three years. She died after her mother died suddenly from a rare blood clot on arrival at Heathrow from Colombia.

Police forensic officers attend the scene of a shooting near St Aloysius RC Church ( Getty Images )

The planning of the attack began in November 2022 when Lacroix found the black Toyota car that would be used in the shooting, Scotland Yard said.

Lacroix was part of a gang in north London and believed members of a rival gang would be at the memorial service.

Sentencing Lacroix, Judge Mark Bryant-Heron QC said: You, Tyrell Lacroix, had been stabbed in an attack by a rival gang member almost exactly a year before the shooting.

And you, Tyrell Lacroix, were set on revenge. Your co-conspirators played their part in helping you to get your revenge.

It is the misfortune of those that organised the memorial service that the deceased people who were being commemorated were from the Regents Park estate, an area regarded by you as territory under the control of the Cumbo gang.

DI Darren Jones, from the Specialist Crime Trident Investigation team, said: These dangerous men brought unimaginable fear and horror to the streets of London. I am pleased our investigation has resulted in them being removed from the community for a considerable time.

The innocent women and girls who were injured will have to deal with the impact of the shooting for the rest of their lives, something that Lacroix, Perch, Walter and Nelson-Martin will have time to consider as they serve their sentences.

He added: I hope that the justice handed down today brings the victims a small measure of comfort and closure.

Enquiries continue to identify a third man who was in the car at the time of the shooting.

Additional reporting by PA.
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A callous father who broke his own four-week-old sons neck before leaving him to die in his cot begged Facebook friends for donations in an attempt to paint a sympathetic picture of himself as a grieving father.

Michael Davis, who was this week jailed for a minimum of 22 years for killing Ollie Davis, started a birthday fundraiser on his Facebook page for Sands, a national charity that exists to reduce the number of babies dying and to support anyone affected by the death of a baby, in 2021  four years after he murdered his son.

Ollie was pronounced dead after being found lifeless in his cot in October 2017, having also sustained fractures to his skull, collar bone, both arms and the joints of all his limbs.

Sentencing Davis at Leicester Crown Court to a life term on Wednesday, Mr Justice Cotter said the murder of Ollie had involved a devastating fatal spinal injury inflicted up to eight days before death.

Ollies mother, Kayleigh Driver, 31, was jailed for seven years for causing or allowing the death of a child and serious physical injury after the judge accepted she did not cause any of her sons injuries.

But the pair were initially on bail while they were investigated by police and were free to post messages on social media about the death of their son, as well as declare their love for each other.

Ollie Davis, whose father Michael Davis has been sentenced to serve a minimum term of 22 years for his murder (Leicestershire Police/PA) ( PA Media )

The charity said they were angry and upset that Davis had appealed for donations despite knowing what he had done, and said it was an apparent attempt to portray a sympathetic picture.

Sands chief executive Clea Harmer said: We are horrified at the appalling crime committed by Michael Davis, who murdered his baby son Ollie.

We are angry and upset to learn that he then cynically appealed for donations to Sands, apparently in an attempt to paint a sympathetic picture of himself.

Our investigations have confirmed that no donations were made through this channel.

The news reports around the sentencing are deeply distressing, especially for anyone who has experienced pregnancy or baby loss, and we are here to provide comfort and support to anyone who needs this.

( Leicestershire Police/PA Wire )

Sentencing Davis to a life term on Wednesday, Mr Justice Cotter said the murder of Ollie had involved a devastating fatal spinal injury inflicted up to eight days before death.

Davis, who was living in Upper Temple Walk, Leicester, with Driver when Ollie was killed, was told he had shown callous indifference by opting not to summon medical help.

Ollie Davis was discovered with a snapped neck and more than 20 broken ribs ( Matthew Cooper/PA Wire )

The judge, sitting at Loughborough Court, said medical experts had confirmed that Ollie suffered 23 rib fractures and other injuries usually seen after a high energy car crash.

After saying he was sure that Davis had caused all the injuries during four separate overnight episodes of violence, Mr Justice Cotter added: At least five different mechanisms were required to cause this terrible array of injuries.

Michael Davis, I have no doubt that during the night you became frustrated and angry, and this led to terrible violence.

You assaulted him on multiple occasions. The attacks in their various forms were also brutal  in particular the fatal neck injury.

The prosecution of the couple was delayed by complex medical evidence and health issues suffered by Driver, who appeared for sentence on a mobility scooter due to a chronic neurological condition.

Ricky Driver, Ollies grandfather, said in a statement prepared for the sentencing hearing: On the 21 October 2017 we were awaken to the sad news of Ollies sudden death and concluded that it was a probably a cot death. A day none of us will forget.

After further examination by experts, we were horrified to find out there were suspicious circumstances regarding Ollie`s death.

The police arrested Kayleigh and Michael for questioning  this shook the family to the core. Over time the injuries were made public, and we couldnt believe what we were being told.

Ollie was perfect in every way when he was born. He had been beaten badly over time and was left to die with his injuries.

This was our worst nightmare. How could anybody hurt a beautiful baby was beyond words.

We felt sick to our stomachs, and we have shed many a tear thinking what Ollie went through in his final days.

The statement described the actions which led to Ollies death as evil and also said the wider family had been dragged through hell for nearly seven years, with all the lies and deceit.

Speaking to reporters outside court, Daviss mother, Paula Wright, said Ollie had been a special little diamond and the sweetest boy you could ever meet.

Claiming she believed her son had not caused Ollies injuries, Ms Wright added: I think hes innocent  hes not even got a temper on him.

Addressing reporters outside court, Detective Inspector Mark Parish said: At the heart of this complex investigation has always been to try to get justice for Ollie.

He was let down in the most horrendous ways imaginable.

Due to the amount of injuries Ollie suffered, and the medical expertise needed to examine those injuries, it has taken more than six years for this investigation to come to court and for Ollies parents to be held accountable.

Andrew Baxter, deputy chief crown prosecutor from the CPS said: Rather than face up to their actions, both parents lied repeatedly about events, and have left it to a jury to determine the horrifying way they treated Ollie.

Ollies death at such a young age came as a devastating shock to his extended family. Our thoughts and sympathies are with them.
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A trial date has been set for a teenager allegedly involved in an extremist satanic online group who is accused of plotting a terror attack on a homeless person.

Cameron Finnigan, 18, appeared at the Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing on Friday morning by video link from HMP Thameside.

Finnigan, of Denne Park, Horsham, West Sussex, has been charged with one count of preparation of terrorist acts, one count of possessing a terrorist document, and one count of possessing indecent images of a child.

It is claimed Finnigan was preparing for an attack against a single homeless individual who was living in a tent, Westminster Magistrates Court heard earlier this month.

The 18-year-old is alleged to have been involved in a pseudo-satanist online group called 764, the prosecution told Westminster Magistrates Court.

Finnigan, wearing a black jumper, spoke to confirm his name and date of birth at the Old Bailey hearing.

Judge Jeremy Baker KC remanded him into custody and set a trial date of January 13 at Winchester Crown Court with a time estimate of four weeks.

A plea and trial preparation hearing will take place on September 13.
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A British expat and her husband had one of their worst cruise experiences in 20 years after the ship they were sailing on was held at Barcelona port and more than 60 passengers with incorrect visas were marched off the boat.

Marina Carter, 69, and Richard Carter, 71, were looking forward to the Mediterranean cruise they booked with their local travel agent, which was due to take them to Barcelona, Corsica, Rome, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Sicily and eventually Venice.

The retired couple, who moved from Britain to Malaga in 2020, set sail on 31 March and were given a cabin aboard the MSC Armonia. They were enjoying the pre-paid drinks package they had purchased, and exploring the activities on the boat when their trip suddenly took a turn for the worse.

Ms Carter told The Independent: We docked at Barcelona and had the day there, but when we came back there was a big group of people standing by the entrance to the ship all crying. I said to my husband: I dont like the look of this, I dont know whats going on but I dont like it.

The couple heard on the boats tannoy there was a problem with immigration, but no further updates were given.

Marina Carter and Richard Carter were hoping for a relaxing Mediterranean cruise ( Marina Carter )

The boat didnt embark when it should have done, it did not sail away, but we were told it would in the next few hours, then midnight, then we thought to ourselves this boat is going nowhere is it, Ms Carter said.

The couple went to dinner but when they returned they found that one of the hallways they would usually access to get back to their cabin was blocked off by a police officer and a speedboat with police officers was circling the cruise ship.

Ms Carter added: The national police were everywhere. They had what I would call their riot vehicles with them ... they were just everywhere in the pool area ... some of the passengers got put in these cabins along by us with the door shut and they were just guarded 24/7.

People started getting quite upset as now this boat was not moving. We are starting to miss ports of call. When the boat did finally start to move off we watched them take some passengers off four at a time. We could see as our cabin overlooked the dock.

Police aboard the vessel ( Marina Carter )

Authorities said that 69 Bolivians on the ship lacked valid documents to enter the European Unions border-free Schengen area. They were marched off and held on another boat for interrogation.

The Spanish governments office in Barcelona said that 65 of the 69 Bolivians who arrived in the city would be flown out to the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz because they had false visas.

The Armonia leaving Barcelona after a number of passengers were removed ( Reuters )

The incorrect entry requirements meant that the Carters, along with more than 1,000 other passengers were stuck for two days and not able to proceed with the cruise.

MSC Cruises said last week the Bolivian passengers documentation appeared correct upon boarding in Brazil. They also told The Independent that passengers were given regular updates about the incident and told how to claim compensation.

Spains national police were looking into the possibility of a fake visa scam, Solange Duarte, a Bolivian diplomat in Barcelona, told the Associated Press.

Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship moored in the port of Barcelona ( AP )

Ms Carter said it was one of the worst cruise experiences theyd had and left them disappointed with the lack of communication from MSC Cruises.

She said: Everybody was irate because nobody knew what was going on and though we are pretty laid back it was making us irate.

The couple described having so many police on board as intimidating. The cruise vessel eventually set sail after two days, but Corsica, Rome, Corfu and Dubrovnik, were missed out on the trip.

MSC Cruises said in a statement Wednesday the Bolivian passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil but Spanish authorities later said the visas were not valid for entry into the Schengen area.

MSC Cruises added: The guests were given daily written updates in the form of letters that were left in their cabins. Additionally, there were onboard announcements and they were written to detailing the compensation they were going to receive for the disruption to their cruise.
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The production of laser energy and radio waves  viewed once as weapons of the future  are being fast-tracked in Britain for the battlefields of Ukraine and Red Sea passages coming under Houthi attacks.

The DragonFire system, which uses a beam to hit and destroy targets at the speed of light, and radio frequency hits taking out an adversarys power supplies, will be tested by the Royal Navy and the Army next month in preparation for operational deployment.

A DragonFire British military laser weapon system ( Ministry of Defence/Crown copyright/PA Wire )

The system, which the Ministry of Defence holds is world-leading, is due to be operational in three years time. But defence secretary Grant Shapps holds that one could not wait to get a system absolutely perfect in such dangerous times, and getting them ready for combat in the fastest time possible is the priority.

In a more dangerous world, our approach to procurement is shifting. We need to be more urgent, more critical and more global .... Lets say that it didnt have to be 100 per cent perfect in order for Ukrainians perhaps to get their hands on it  2027 is still the date as of this moment. But of course Ill look to see what we can do to speed up, he said.

A metal plate showing damaged caused by DragonFire a British military laser ( Ministry of Defence/Crown copyright/PA Wire )

The LDEW (Laser Directed Energy Weapon) is already a game changer, say defence scientists, highlighting its ability to strike something as small as a 1 coin from a kilometre away. The radio frequency outlets, meanwhile, can severely weaken enemy defences by cutting off communications and electricity.

As well as its lethality, the weapons system will enable massive savings, delivering a destructive shot for 10 pounds a shot compared to missiles costing 1.5m being used, for example, to shoot down Houthi rockets and drones.

The lasers will be positioned on the Navys Type 23 frigates and, in future, on Wolfhound armoured personnel carriers. The Frequency demonstrators will be strapped to the Armys Man SV vehicles.

The weaponry, claimed to be world leading by the Ministry of Defence, is being produced by the governments Dstl (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory) and private sector defence firms MBDA, Leonardo and QinetiQ at the UKs top secret research centre at Porton Down, near Salisbury.

A target drone showing damaged caused by 'DragonFire' a British military laser ( Ministry of Defence/Crown copyright/PA Wire )

During a visit to the facility, Mr Shapps said he would seek to up the pace of development to try and ensure they can be used in Ukraine and the Red Sea.

Ive come down to speed up the production of the DragonFire laser system because I think given that theres two big conflicts on, one sea-based, one in Europe, this could have huge ramifications to have a weapon capable particularly of taking down drones, he said.

On incoming drones, it doesnt take much imagination to see how that could be helpful in Ukraine for example. So I want to speed up what would usually be a very lengthy development procurement process, possibly up to 10 years, to a much shorter timeframe to get it deployed, potentially on ships, incoming drones, and potentially on land.

A new arms procurement process in place is designed to not wait until we have this at 99.9 per cent perfection before it goes into the field, but get it to sort of 70 per cent and then get it out there and then... develop it from there, he added.

Dstl is fully prepared to work at maximum speed on the weapons project. Reacting to their upcoming tests by the British military, chief executive Paul Hollinshead said: This is excellent news, and a real step forward in enabling operational advantage at pace for UK Defence.

A mortar casing showing damage done by DragonFire a British military laser ( Ministry of Defence/Crown copyright/PA Wire )

A number of other countries are carrying out research into the use of lasers and radio frequency for combat including the US. The Pentagon, however, says there will be a considerable time gap before it can be deployed for combat.

The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) has stated that more needs to be done to get them into the military. DOD ( Department of Defence) has long noted a gap  sometimes called the valley of death  between its development and its acquisition communities that impede technology transition, it said in a report.

Matt Cork, a programme manager in the project, said fresh and innovative approaches are being taken to cut the time it takes to get the weapons to the military.

We are fully aware of the valley of death and one way to avoid it is to ensure we work in full cooperation with our partners in every stage of the process, there is real teamwork and a lot of wider interest in what is being achieved, he said.

James Black, assistant director, defence and security, for the think-tank RAND Europe commented low-cost drones and rockets have swung the economic calculus of offense and defense in favour of those using large volumes of cheap unmanned systems and munitions to overwhelm more-sophisticated air and missile defences... systems like DragonFire can swing back that calculus.

Robert Emerson, a defence analyst, agreed that laser weapons and offensive radio frequency are of great benefit in confronting hostile states and insurgent groups using asymmetric warfare.

But, he cautioned adverse weather conditions rain can be detrimental to the beams by dissipating it. There is a need for cooling systems, and battery recharging facilities. And, obviously, one has to be extremely careful of possible accidental fatal impact on civilian aircraft and other possible collateral damage.
 Close Prince William and his eldest son George were spotted at an Astone Villa match on Thursday evening

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King Charles and Queen Camilla have said they were utterly shocked and horrified by the knife attack at a Sydney shopping mall.

Their statement follows one issued by the Prince and Princess of Wales earlier today in which they praised the heroic emergency responders.

Emergency services rushed to the scene in the Australian city at 3:30pm local time on Saturday as shocking videos showed a man wearing shorts and a green and yellow shirt carrying a blade.

One of his victims is a nine-month-old baby, who is undergoing surgery in hospital.

The attacker was also shot dead by a police officer, who confronted the attacker and shot him as he faced her and raised a knife.

Police do not believe the act was terror-related, but that the man is known to law enforcement.

In a statement, the King said: My wife and I were utterly shocked and horrified to hear of the tragic stabbing incident in Bondi.

Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who have been so brutally killed during such a senseless attack.

While details of these shocking circumstances are still emerging, our thoughts are also with those who were involved in the response, and we give thanks for the bravery of the first responders and emergency services.
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The heartbroken mother of a student who died after taking laughing gas has called for the drug to be made a Class A substance.

Ellen Mercer, 24, was inhaling two to three big bottles of laughing gas before she died in February last year.

An inquest found that part of her death was linked to the substance, which has been made illegal in the UK.

I dont think she realised how dangerous the drug was, Sharon Cook, Ms Mercers mother, told MailOnline.

I dont think she realised just how harmful it is and if she had realised she wouldnt have taken it.

Ms Mercer was taken to hospital by the emergency services in the early hours of 9 February last year after she reported being unable to walk and would fall over when she tried, Berkshire Coroners Court heard.

She was treated by medical staff at Wexham Park Hospital, but died around 24 hours later at 12.52am on 10 February.

Heidi Connor, senior coroner, told the inquest that part of her cause of death related to nitrous oxide gas, also known as laughing gas.

Obviously its heartbreaking, Ms Cook said of her daughters death. [The government] needs to come down harder on it and they should definitely make it a Class A drug. It is dangerous so it should be up there with heroin and cocaine.

File photo: Laughing gas cannisters strewn on the ground ( PA Archive )

Class C is not strong enough in my book.

The inquest heard that a post-mortem report found Ms Mercers death to have been caused by bilateral pulmonary thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis, and long-term complications of nitrous oxide use.

At the time of the students death, possession of laughing gas with the intent of getting high was not illegal.

It was banned by the government, and made a Class C drug, in November 2023.

Also known as balloons and Nos, nitrous oxide is a colourless gas that is most commonly found in pressurised metal canisters, usually inhaled through a balloon.

The substance slows down the brain and bodys responses, with the effects of the drug varying depending on how much a person takes.

Michaela Kirtley, an emergency medical technician from Phoenix Response Services, a contractor that worked for South Central Ambulance Service, attended Ms Mercers home on 8 February.

When she arrived at the scene, she was shown to the bedroom by Ms Mercers boyfriend.

I can still hear her voice Sharon Cook

I took notice of the room, she said. There were no sheets on the bed at all. There was just the duvet, severely stained. The room was bare. She said the scene made it clear to her that she was dealing with a vulnerable person.

The medical technician said Ms Mercer was talking as normal, and the only one of her vital signs that was outside the normal range was her heart rate, which could have been due to anxiety.

Ms Mercer told her that she had burned her legs after spilling a gas canister on them and that she had been unable to walk or go to the toilet for two weeks, she said.
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A map has revealed the NHS hospitals worst affected by pests after figures showed more than 18,000 incidents have been reported over the last three years.

Rats, mice, cockroaches and bed bugs were among the thousands of pests found at NHS hospitals across England, with rodents discovered on maternity wards, wasps nests in imaging areas and ants coming through the ceiling.

In total there were 18,000 reports of pests at NHS hospitals over the past three years, according to data obtained under freedom of information laws.

One hospital said black insects are biting the legs of staff, that the whole building has a fly infestation, and animal noises were coming from inside the walls.

Maggots were also found in the mortuary at one hospital and rat droppings in a corpse bag at another, with the total cost of dealinng with pests across the NHS estate at an eyewatering 3m, according to the data, obtained by the Liberal Democrats.

But not all hospitals responded to the data requests, meaning the scale of the problem could be much bigger. One trust noted 156 incidents of pests, when in fact these were proactive weekly callouts over the last three years.

Our map below shows the NHS trusts worst affected by pest incidents:

View more

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said: These are shocking revelations and another sign our hospitals are no longer up to scratch for sick patients and hardworking staff.

In peoples hour of need, they need to be safe from bugs and rodents.

Instead, wards are falling apart at the seams, with foul pests allowed to roam freely. This is a national scandal.

 Conservative ministers must act now by bringing forward emergency funds for crumbling and unhygienic hospitals.

File photo: Maggots were also found in the mortuary at one hospital and rat droppings in a corpse bag at another ( Getty Images )

This Conservative government has left the NHS in decay, with soaring repair bills. This madness has to end. It is time the NHS was put first, starting with making hospitals a safe and clean place again.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: Individual NHS organisations are legally responsible for maintaining their estates, including pest control.

Patient safety is vital, and the Government has invested significant sums to upgrade and modernise NHS buildings so staff have the facilities needed to provide world-class care for patients, including 4.2 billion this financial year. This is on top of the expected 20 billion for the New Hospital Programme.

We have also invested a further 1.7 billion for over 70 hospital upgrades across England alongside a range of nationally funded infrastructure improvements in mental health, urgent and emergency care and diagnostic capacity.
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Royal Navy applicants will no longer have to prove they can swim before joining, with experts warning it is a desperate attempt to fix the recruitment crisis.

Recruits were previously required to pass a 30-minute swim test to join the Navy, with the ability to swim being a basic-level entry requirement for the force.

But since a drastic fall in applications was reported last year, the Navy has sought to remove barriers to entry to encourage a wider pool of recruits.

UK defence secretary Grant Shapps claimed in February the situation was improving, with applications now at an eight-year high.

The move to eradicate the need to pass a basic swimming test, however, has been described as a step too far and a true sign of desperation on the part of the recruiters.

I absolutely get that there is a growing issue around young people being able to swim and therefore, maintaining the swim test could be seen as reducing the pool of eligible candidates, but at what point do we say enough is enough? an anonymous defence source told Sky News.

Recruits who cant swim will need additional training and therefore their working days in training will be longer. Surely avoiding this by learning to swim before joining is the best for everyone - including the taxpayer?

"This is just spin, a distraction - theyre desperate."

Under the new recruitment scheme, the source said applicants will be able to self-declare that they can swim.

If it transpires they are not able to pass the Royal Navy Swim Test, they will remain in Phase 1 basic training while they receive swimming lessons.

While this means that no recruit can be fully qualified as a member of the Royal Navy without being able to complete the now scrapped 30-minute swim test, the source said such a move forces the taxpayer to pay for service personnel while they train - instead of ensuring the recruit simply learns on their own time.

The Navy may also need to find more swimming instructors as a result of the change.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said that the change in requirements to entry reflected the fact that recruitment and retention were absolute priorities for the force

"All Royal Navy and Royal Marine candidates are required to successfully pass the swim test to be able to pass out of Phase 1 training and the level of swimming ability required has not changed, the spokesperson said.

"Recruitment and retention are absolute priorities, which is why we are introducing a range of measures to speed up recruitment.

"These changes are to reduce the delay for candidates that are eligible to join, while retaining the same level of swimming ability."
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The UK has taken another step away from the recession that plagued it at the tail end of last year after the latest figures revealed the economy grew again in February.

Gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 0.1 per cent in February, according to the Office for National Statistics. It also revised the previous estimate for January from 0.2 per cent to 0.3 per cent growth.

The production side of the economy was strong, contributing the most to the UKs overall growth as output from the sector rose 1.1 per cent in February, compared to a 0.3 per cent fall in January.

The ONS released new figures on Friday ( PA Wire )

The economy grew slightly in February with widespread growth across manufacturing, particularly in the car sector, said ONS director of economic statistics Liz McKeown. Services also grew a little with public transport and haulage, and telecommunications having strong months.

Partially offsetting this there were notable falls across construction as the wet weather hampered many building projects. Looking across the last three months as a whole, the economy grew for the first time since last summer.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt described the latest figures as a sign that the economy is turning a corner, saying: These figures are a welcome sign that the economy is turning a corner, and we can build on this progress if we stick to our plan.

Last week our cuts to National Insurance for 29 million working people came into effect across Britain, as part of our plan to reward work and grow the economy.

Sanjay Raja, Deutsche Banks chief UK economist, also described the figures as indicative of a turning point.

Looking ahead, we think the UK economy is at a turning point following on from its short and shallow recession last year, he said.

He added that he believed GDP would continue to pick up through the year, rising by 0.5 per cent. He suggested next year the rise could be as high as 1.5 per cent.

The construction sector output was one of the few that fell, according to the latest report, by 1.9 per cent. but The ONS cited anecdotal evidence that heavy rainfall delayed planned work and decreasing output in February.

Overall, the economy appears to be putting the 2023 recession behind it in the new year. A recession is defined by at least two quarters in a row where the economy contracts, as it did in the second half of 2023.

However, after the January and February readings showed growth, if the whole first quarter of 2024 is to be negative then March must show a drop of 1.29 per cent or more.
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The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning that 500,000 benefit claimants may soon need to take action ahead of a major shake-up to the benefit system.

People who currently claim legacy benefits will soon start to receive letters asking them to move to Universal Credit. These letters are called migration notices, and claimants who receive them must respond promptly.

The DWP says people have three months to respond by claiming Universal Credit, or else risk losing their current benefit entitlements. The deadline by which you have to reply will be stated on the letter.

What legacy benefits' does Universal Credit replace? Housing Benefit

income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)

Child Tax Credits (CTC)

Working Tax Credits (WTC)

Income Support

Will I lose money by switching to Universal Credit?

Anyone who responds to their migration notices within the three month deadline should not lose any money from the transition to Universal Credit.

The DWP has said that if a persons entitlement to Universal Credit is lower than their legacy benefit entitlement will receive transitional protection.

This will be a top-up payment that ensures their Universal Credit is no less than what they were receiving before.

The protection will continue until the claimants Universal Credit entitlement matches what they were receiving from their legacy benefits.

Do I have to move on to Universal Credit?

If you receive a migration notice notifying you of your three month deadline, your current benefits will be stopped two weeks after this date. If you are unable to claim by the deadline on your migration notice, you can ask the DWP to extend it.

However, if the deadline has passed, you can still claim up to a month after it to ensure you receive the transitional protection you may be entitled to. After this date, you will not be able to claim it.

It is advisable that anyone who receives a migration notice applies for Universal Credit as soon as possible. You will be able to continue receiving Housing Benefit, income-based JSA, income-related ESA and Income Support for two weeks after you claim.

All people who currently receive any legacy benefits will have to move onto Universal Credit by 2029.

Minister for Employment, Jo Churchill MP said: Universal Credit is a proven benefits system fit for the modern age.

With even more people moving to Universal Credit, we can continue to provide the best level of support for people to secure financial independence through work.

I would encourage all those who receive their Migration Notices to take action to ensure they continue to receive the benefits they are entitled to.

The government offers guidance on how to apply for Universal Credit on their website.
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A woman seeking damages after suffering multiple injuries due to a bad fall in Wales is about to lose out on almost 600,000 for being thoroughly dishonest in her process of asking for compensation.

The Queens Bench divisions Justice Ritchie dismissed the claim by Kirsty Williams-Henry, saying that she was a regular liar. He said he would have awarded her 596,704 in damages but not any longer.

Ms Williams-Henry said she had suffered a fall from the Aberavon Pier in Wales town Port Talbot on 21 July 2018. She then took legal action against the company owning the pier  Associated British Ports Holdings Ltd  in 2021 and claimed more than 2.3m in damages, with liability settled two-thirds in her favour, reported the Daily Record news website.

The Piers owning firm said it believed that Ms Williams-Henry was entitled to only around 370,000 as she had been dishonest about the extent of her injuries and the said impact on her daily life.

Justice Ritchie, in a 99-page ruling on Wednesday, said: "I have come to the conclusion that both the claimant and her mother have been thoroughly dishonest in their presentation of the claimants symptoms and disabilities and have sought to mislead clinicians, medicolegal experts and this court about the claimants health, functioning, activities of daily living and her work abilities."

He added: "Looking at the claimants statements which I have identified as lies... objectively, taking into account what a reasonable member of the public would consider to be honest, knowing all of the relevant facts, I have come to the conclusion that the claimant and her mother have been objectively dishonest."

The judge pointed out that the 33-year-old woman was drinking when she visited the pier with her family to see the bioluminescent plankton spotted in the sea.

But while returning to the shore, she suffered a fall between four and five metres onto rocks and sand that did not have any safety barriers along the pier.

The judge pointed out that Ms Williams-Henry suffered a "moderately severe" brain injury from the fall as well as skull and other bone fractures. Justice Ritchie added that the woman also suffered from depression, anxiety and mild post-traumatic stress disorder after spending eight days in intensive care.

She further claimed lack of proper rehabilitation after the incident, leading to more problems in her personal and professional life.

During the trial in Cardiff, the woman denied lying about her injuries and her mother also claimed that Ms William-Henry had no life due to her conditions, according to reports.

However, Justice Ritchie ruled that "overall" he found Ms Williams-Henry was "dishonest and manipulative".

He added that the woman lied in insurance and benefits forms, despite working for the insurance firm Admiral until last year. She has been found to have made "substantial exaggerations and some lies" to both the court and medical experts about her health difficulties and their effects, Justice Ritchie said.

Some of the evidence presented by her, the judge said, was "some of the least impressive that I have ever heard".

"I know it looks like a large sum of money to deprive a genuinely injured person of, but... parliament sought to stamp out dishonesty which is fundamental in personal injury claims and the claimant has breached this law, the judge said.

"Finally, I take into account that the claimant was wholly unrepentant when she gave evidence and had sought, in parallel, to defraud the Department for Work and Pensions and Legal & General insurance about her disabilities."
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Angela Rayner has promised to step down if police find she committed a criminal offence in the ongoing row over the sale of her council house a decade ago.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) is looking into claims she gave false information about where she was living, which she denies.

Ms Rayner insists the controversy over whether she should have paid capital gains tax on the sale has been manufactured, and has accused the Conservatives of attempting to smear her.

I am completely confident Ive followed the rules at all times, she said in a statement on Friday evening.

We have seen the Tory party use this playbook before  reporting political opponents to the police during election campaigns to distract from their record. I will say as I did before  if I committed a criminal offence, I would of course do the right thing and step down. The British public deserves politicians who know the rules apply to them.

The police investigation came as Rishi Sunak suffered his own setback, with the resignation of a third minister in as many weeks. Energy minister Graham Stuart said he would fully support the prime minister from the backbenches but wanted to focus on issues in his constituency instead.

The MP for Beverley and Holderness in Yorkshire has a majority of more than 20,000  but Labour last year overturned a similar figure in a similar Tory stronghold, Selby and Ainsty.

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner has faced Tory accusations over her living situation in recent weeks ( PA Wire )

Under electoral law, voters must register at their permanent home and can face penalties for false information.

GMP originally said that Ms Rayner would not face an investigation. However, it agreed to review the circumstances last month after the Conservative Party deputy chair, James Daly, made the force aware of neighbours who have contradicted Ms Rayners statement that the property, which was separate from her husbands, was her main home. On Friday, a spokesperson said it was now investigating whether any offences have been committed.

The row erupted when former Tory deputy chair, Lord Ashcroft, suggested, in his book Red Queen? The Unauthorised Biography of Angela Rayner, that Ms Rayner had failed to properly declare her main residence.

It led to claims Ms Rayner may owe capital gains tax on the 2015 sale of her Stockport home. She turned a 48,500 profit on the house, which she bought in 2007 with a 25 per cent discount.

Government guidance says a tenant can apply to buy their council home through the right-to-buy scheme if it is their only or main home.

Her husband was listed at another address around a mile away.

Ms Rayner is also said to have re-registered the births of her two youngest children to the address where her husband resided.

She has insisted that her Vicarage Road home was her principal property despite her husband living elsewhere at the time. It was reported last weekend that Ms Rayner had described his house as home in tweets at the time.

She has accused Lord Ashcroft of an unhealthy interest in her family life and of wanting to kick down at people like me who graft hard in tough circumstances to get on in life.

A Labour spokesperson said: Angela welcomes the chance to set out the facts with the police. We remain completely confident that Angela has complied with the rules at all times and its now appropriate to let the police do its work.

Defence secretary Grant Shapps accused Ms Rayner, who called for Boris Johnson to quit as prime minister after police launched an investigation into whether he had breached lockdown rules, of double standards.

He said: Angela Rayner herself has spent her political career calling people out for exactly the thing she seems to be doing now. Its not acceptable to ignore it. This is something which is a serious matter, its important that its looked into properly and I welcome the idea that the police are doing that."

In her statement on Friday, Ms Rayner said: The questions raised relate to a time before I was an MP and I have set out my familys circumstances and taken expert tax and legal advice. I look forward to setting out the facts with the relevant authorities at the earliest opportunity.
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Rishi Sunaks government has suffered another blow after his energy minister announced he was quitting.

Graham Stuart said he would fully support the prime minister from the back benches but wanted to focus on local issues instead.

He is the third senior minister to quit in recent weeks as the Tories face the prospect of a disastrous general election defeat.

His announcement comes a month after former armed forces minister James Heappey announced he was leaving government and standing down as an MP at the election.

Education minister Robert Halfon also resigned and will not stand again, while Ben Wallace quit as defence secretary last year.

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said the drumbeat of Conservative resignations was becoming deafening as ministers find any excuse they can to get away from this deeply unpopular Conservative government.

Mr Stuart is the MP for Beverley and Holderness in Yorkshire, where he has a majority of more than 20,000.

But Labour overturned a similar majority in what was considered a Tory stronghold in Selby and Ainsty last year.

Mr Stuart said he will turn his focus to issues such as making roads safer, broadband delivery and increasing the number of defibrillators in his constituency.

Graham Stuart has quit to focus on local issues in his Yorkshire constituency ( Victoria Jones/PA Wire )

He said: Im proud to have served in the government for most of the past eight years, but now its time to focus on Beverley and Holderness.

Im proud to have achieved much over the past 18 years, from rock armour at Withernsea to saving East Riding Community Hospital, installing life-saving defibrillators in rural communities, and slashing fares on the Humber Bridge.

Im looking forward to working with communities to make our roads safer, helping the council take full advantage of the opportunities brought by devolution, pressing the case for York to Hull Rail, and improving healthcare in Beverley and Holderness.

In addition to his role as energy and net zero minister, Mr Stuart also served in the Foreign Office, the Department for International Trade, and as an assistant whip to the Treasury.
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Liz Truss has suggested Boris Johnsons dog left fleas in No 10 and revealed she wanted to sack the governor of the Bank of England in extraordinary extracts from her new book.

The bombshell revelations include that she spent several of her six weeks as prime minister itching because Downing Street was infested with the pests.

And her disastrous economic policy  which led to her being ousted from office  could have been even more extreme because she wanted to appoint new senior leaders in the UKs central bank.

She admitted the move would have amounted to a declaration of war on the economic establishment.

She also:

Ordered furniture for Downing Street but was forced to resign before it arrived

Reveals she worried about how to get her hair done ahead of meetings with world leaders

Says she felt like a prisoner in No 10 and struggled even to get medicine for a cough

Says Boris Johnson asked at a meeting when he was PM: Raise your hand if you want a steel industry in Britain

Planned her disastrous economic policy at Chevening alongside the current cabinet secretary Simon Case

During her short time in office her daughters did get to visit the nuclear bunker

In extracts from the book published by the Daily Mail, she talked of her ruinous economic policy.

Former Bank of England governor, Mark Carney, has accused Ms Truss of turning Britain into Argentina on the Channel with her economic policy, saying she had a basic misunderstanding of what drives economies.

However, Ms Truss revealed she wanted to go even further and faster with the policies that would eventually drive her from office.

One option, discussed during planning sessions with Mr Case and others, included appointing new senior leaders in the Bank of England and Treasury who were prepared to challenge the status quo. But this would have amounted to a declaration of war on the economic establishment. It would also have taken too long, she noted.

In the end, she decided to try to work constructively with the governor of the bank.

Explaining her desire to shake up the system, she said that when Mr Johnson was PM he asked in a meeting for those who want a steel industry in Britain to put up their hands. Treasury officials sat on their hands, she said.

She was also scathing about the realities of living in No 10.

The place was infested with fleas, she wrote. Some claimed that this was down to Boris and Carrie's dog Dilyn, but there was no conclusive evidence. In any case, the entire place had to be sprayed with flea killer. I spent several weeks itching.

The most difficult thing to get used to, she wrote, was that spontaneous excursions were all but impossible: I was effectively a prisoner.

She recruited her teenage daughters, Liberty and Frances, to run errands because it was easier for them to leave the buildings without being spotted. Of their time in one of the most famous addresses in the country she said: Im pleased they at least managed to fit in a sleepover with their friends. And they did get to visit the nuclear bunker.

But at one point, suffering from a cough, my diary secretary had to go out in the middle of the night to buy me some medicine, she said.

She also complained about the lack of personal support for the PM, which she describes as pretty shocking.

Despite now being one of the most photographed people in the country, I had to organise my own hair and make-up appointments, she wrote.

She also hit out at her successor Rishi Sunak. Who she defeated to become prime minister but was forced to hand over to less than two months later.

Writing about his initial leadership campaign she said that junior ministers and aides had apparently been told by his backers that if they wanted a place on Rishi's team, they'd have to join the revolt against Boris and resign at once. Many duly did.

She added: Although there was never any suggestion that Rishi himself indulged in such underhand behaviour, reports circulated that MPs were being warned to support him or remain permanently out in the cold.

In the book the former PM, who was famously outlasted by an iceberg lettuce in a blonde wig, attempted to explain the failures of her time in office  including her radical policies.

Ten Years Tto Save the West also documents her historic meeting with the late queen at Balmoral in Scotland just days before she passed away.

According to Ms Truss, the 96-year-old monarch had given the prime minister two words of advice: Pace yourself. The former Tory leader wrote that maybe she should have listened.

Since leaving No 10, Ms Truss has been a consistent thorn in Mr Sunaks side. She is leading opposition to his smoking ban plans, calling the move profoundly un-Conservative.

She has also regularly appeared at Conservative meetings on both sides of the Atlantic claiming that the deep state had sabotaged her tax-cutting plans from Kwasi Kwartengs notoriously disastrous 2022 mini-Budget.

Questioned about her comments last month, Mr Sunak said if he was part of the deep state: I probably wouldnt tell you if I was, would I?

On the smoking ban he has also insisted there is nothing un-Conservative about caring about our childrens health, adding: I respect that some people will disagree with me on this but  I think this is the right long-term thing for our country.

Smoking causes one in four cancer deaths. Its responsible for a hospital admission every minute.
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Rishi Sunak has created a new position - and given David Cameron a deputy - after suffering his third ministerial resignation is as many weeks.

Energy minister Graham Stuart quit saying he would fully support Mr Sunak from the backbenches but wanted to focus on issues in his constituency.

He is the latest senior minister to stand down as the Tories face the prospect of a disastrous defeat at the general election.

Last month former armed forces minister James Heappey and education minister Robert Halfon both resigned and announced they would not stand again.

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said the drumbeat of Conservative resignations was becoming deafening as ministers find any excuse they can to get away from this deeply unpopular Conservative government.

In a mini-reshuffle replacing Mr Stuart the PM appointed Andrew Mitchell to the new position of Deputy Foreign Secretary.

Downing Street said Foreign Office minister Mr Mitchell has been given the "honorific title" on Friday.

The move comes just a day after current Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron was described as acting like a prime minister on world stage by his friend, and former chancellor, George Osborne.

He also raised eyebrows this week with a surprise meeting with Donald Trump in Florida in which they discussed Ukraine and other issues.
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The UK should consider sending troops to Ukraine a former defence minister has said days after President Zelensky warned his country was at risk of losing its war with Russia.

British forces could give support and training to Ukrainians in their battle against Putins invasion, James Heappey suggested.

But personnel would have to be kept away from the frontline, to prevent sparking a conflict between Russia and Nato.

He also warned the UKs armed forces were running incredibly hot and that the UK had to be better prepared for a potential war, amid growing threats around the world.

One way of achieving this could be through a large "strategic reserve" force of thousands of veterans, who could be called up at a time of national crisis, he said in an interview with Sky News.

Asked about the possibility of western troops on the ground in Ukraine, he said: "I think youve got to be careful about how you do it. I think definitely nowhere near a combat zone. I think youve got to be very, very careful not to make it into a Russo-NATO war.

"But I do think it is worth exploring what in the sort of deeper - in the depth of Ukraine - the donor community could do."

Former armed forces minister James Heappey (Victoria Jones/PA) ( PA Archive )

On British troops on a training mission inside Ukraine, he said: I think it is worth considering.

The ex-minister, who stepped down from his role last month, warned that if personnel were pushed too hard many could leave.

He told Sky News: The reality is is that we are running them incredibly hot.

He also predicted we are going to be running our forces as busy as they are for a very long time to come and if we are going to do that, bearing in mind that they have an absolute right to leave when we push them too hard and lots of them are, we need a bigger force in order to be able to meet the ambition.

Mr Heappey has urged Rishi Sunak to increase defence spending now to 2.5 per cent of GDP.

Another former defence minister said any deployment of UK troops to Ukraine would have to be done as part of a wider coalition.

Tobias Ellwood said: If we were to send any troops ourselves, I think it would need to be done as part of a coalition.

The call by Ukraine right now is actually not for personnel, it is desperately for equipment.

Earlier this week President Zelensky warned Ukraine would will lose the war if the United States Congress did not approve billions in military aid being held up by Republican politicians.
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A trio of sailors who spent more than a week stranded on a remote, uninhabited atoll in the Pacific were rescued by the US Coast Guard after a search and rescue team spotted a giant sign spelling HELP the men had constructed from palm fronds on the beach.

The sailors, identified as three men in their 40s with sailing experience, set out from Polowat Atoll, southeast of Guam, on 31 March. Their boat, a 20-foot open skiff with an outboard motor, sustained damage and the men were stranded on Pikelot Atoll.

Nearly a week later, on 6 April, the US Joint Rescue Sub-Center in Guam got a distress call from a relative of the sailors, saying they hadnt returned from Pikelot.

The call prompted US officials to begin a rescue operation spanning an area of over 78,000 nautical miles.

The following day, a US Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft operating out of Kadena Air Force Base in Japan spotted the mariners, along with a crude shelter theyd erected on the beach and dropped them survival packages.

The sailors were stuck on Pikelot Atoll, an uninhabited island, for over a week ( US Coast Guard )

In a remarkable testament to their will to be found, the mariners spelt out HELP on the beach using palm leaves, a crucial factor in their discovery. This act of ingenuity was pivotal in guiding rescue efforts directly to their location, one of the operations search and rescue coordinators, Lieutenant Chelsea Garcia of the US Coast Guard, said in a news release.

On 8 April, a US Coast Guard HC-130J Hercules aircraft flew over the stranded men, dropping a radio to the missing sailors.

The men radioed back that they were in good health and had access to food and water, according to the Coast Guard. They had been surviving by eating coconuts.

The next day, a Coast Guard ship, the USCGC Oliver Henry, which had been diverted from its original course to join the rescue, picked up the sailors.

In another twist, one of the Coast Guard personnel involved in the rescue, Petty Officer 2nd Class Eugene Halishlius, was related to the missing men.

One of the Coast Guard rescuers was actually related to the missing men ( US Coast Guard )

I could see on their faces, Whoa! Whos this guy pulling up that can speak our language? he told CNN on Thursday.

Its a crazy world, I actually found out Im related to them! he added, describing the missing men as third and fourth cousins.

The men have now been safely returned to their departing point of Polowat Atoll.

The Coast Guard urged all sailors to equip their vessels with emergency position indicating radio beacons.

The remote atoll was the site of a similar rescue in 2020 when another group of three washed up on Pikelot when their boat ran out of fuel.

They spelt out SOS on the beach and were later rescued by a multi-country team.
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A retired chiropractor from upstate New York is facing manslaughter charges after he allegedly killed an Elvis Presley impersonator by chloroforming him during sex.

Ronald Rayher, 69, is accused of restraining and binding Thomas Krider, 40, then administering a dangerous dose of chloroform more than one time during the sexual encounter, which led to his death on 5 April, according to court documents obtained by the Times Union.

Four days after Kriders death, Mr Rayher went to the Saratoga County Sheriffs Office and reported that his body was in the basement of his Milton home, according to Undersheriff Jeffrey Brown.

Mr Rayher was arrested and charged with second-degree manslaughter and evidence tampering for allegedly removing Kriders things from the crime scene, the Times Union said. It is unclear where Mr Rayher got the chloroform.

Investigators said the two had known each other for many years, and both the sexual encounter and the chloroform use appeared to be consensual.

Ronald G. Rayher, 69, is accused of killing 40-year-old Thomas Krider ( Saratoga County Sheriffs Office )

Krider, who went by the stage name TJ Greene and who also worked as a tour guide for a local Star Trek museum in Ticonderoga, went missing on Friday when he last spoke to his wife Heidi Greene.

Ms Greene, 42, who reported him missing to Ticonderoga police the next day, said Krider left Friday to pick up a free box spring from a person in return for moving some furniture, the Times Union said.

He was always so trusting that, even if he met someone one time, they were a friend, Ms Greene said, recalling her concern over his easygoing trusting nature.

In the days following the Star Trek superfans disappearance, his loved ones spread the word on social media.

He was a sci-fi geek and nerd, Ms Greene said. He was into so many things.  He even got a (tattoo) sleeve on his arm of just He-Man and She-Ra characters.

Krider, who went by the stage name TJ Greene, was known as an Elvis impersonator and Star Trek superfan ( Provided by Greene family )

A GoFundMe that was created to help his wife with funeral expenses, describes Krider as a talented performer, whether he was wearing sequins as Elvis, or whether he was guiding a Star Trek tour.

He brought his compassion and energy to every performance and he touched many lives. The multitude of condolences showing up on social media speak to just how many people loved him.

As of Friday afternoon the campaign had raised $14,275.

He was my whole world, my heart, my soul, Ms Greene said. I dont know what Im going to do without him.

Rayher was arraigned and is being held at the Saratoga County Jail on $250,000 bail. His next court date is set for 21 May.
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Sally and Simon Glass are steeling themselves at home in Boulder with a mental inventory of their pink wardrobe items  the outfits like an amulet to wear during the murder trial of a Colorado deputy charged in the killing of their son.

We might run out of them, says Simon; Sally suggests the couple might have to get some pink scarves and things to ensure they have enough in their sons favourite colour to last for the duration of proceedings, with opening statements expected to start on Friday.

Even now, though, as she speaks to The Independent, she is surrounded by pink  her shirt, the straw in her cup of water, the cover of her phone.

The colour has loomed large in their lives as a tribute to their 22-year-old son Christian since authorities arrived at the Glass home in June 2022 to announce hed been shot dead by police.

Christian Glass smiles with his parents, Sally and Simon Glass, from England and New Zealand, respectively ( The Glass Family )

On that day, Sally collapsed in the doorway, which is where Simon found her upon returning home shortly afterwards. It was nigh impossible for them to comprehend that Christian, a sensitive and kind amateur geologist, was dead; even more difficult to comprehend was that hed been killed by police. The initial police narrative claimed Christian had done something to incite the violent response, which didnt make sense to his parents.

So Sally and Simon, a soft-spoken, gentle couple from England and New Zealand, respectively, stood up and fought. Mustering courage amidst their shock and grief, they demanded answers.

The revelations that followed from the 911 call audio and body camera footage  from seven officers responding from five different agencies  were tragically maddening. Christian, whod been out for a drive, called 911 for help on 10 June after his car became stuck off a mountain road.

After more than an hour of interactions with officers, during which he never left his car, he was tased, then shot dead, all without ever leaving the vehicle  or even the drivers seat.

His parents have never watched the footage; they still dont want to know the graphic specifics of Christians killing. But they were armed with enough detail to be determined to save other families from the same horrifying pain, and have sparked a cascade of historic change.

We had to fight for justice, along with our lawyers; this was not a smooth path, says Sally. Justice just didnt come. We really had to fight for it, and it is really hard.

Just under a year ago, Sally and Simon were awarded a landmark $19m settlement, the largest in Colorado history. Part of the terms ensure enhanced training for law enforcement; Christians case will now be used as an example of what not to do. The sheriff in Clear Creek County has resigned and the undersheriff was fired. All seven officers who responded on the night of Christians death have been charged.

Christian loved art, sports, geology and had a passion for social justice, his family say; he had trained as a chef and was looking at coding programmes when he was shot dead by Colorado cops in 2022 ( The Glass Family )

Now, 22 months after their sons killing  the same number of years he spent on this Earth  Sally and Simon will finally watch the man who shot him stand trial. Jury selection began on Monday for the case of former Clear Creek County Deputy Andrew Buen, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, reckless endangerment and official misconduct.

Obviously, weve [yet] to see a guilty verdict, so thats yet to be decided  and what sort of sentence they come up with, assuming he is found guilty, Simon tells The Independent. He and Sally will be driving daily from Boulder to the courthouse in Georgetown, more than an hour away, for the trial; they will leave at various junctures to avoid too-painful testimony.

Honestly, were dreading it, Simon says. It is not going to be easy. Its going to be a tough few weeks.

Christian, his wife acknowledges tearfully, is dead.

Theres nothing we can do to bring him back. But maybe his death was not in vain, she says. Maybe, through highlighting the atrocity of this, the changes that have taken place, it doesnt happen to somebody else. Thats sort of the thought Im going to have during the trial  that were fighting for change, that some other poor young person doesnt get gunned down for no reason.

The circumstances surrounding her sons death were heartbreaking and almost painfully inexplicable. He called 911 before midnight after his car became stuck on rocks in the deep darkness near Silver Plume, a near-ghost town in the mountains. Christian was unfailingly polite but clearly distressed; it was evident he was suffering from some type of mental health crisis as he mentioned folkloric figures and made other confused utterings.

When the operator asked Christian if there were any weapons in the car, however, he told her about rock tools he had with him, offering to throw them out of the car when officers arrived to make them feel safer. He described the items as two knives, a hammer and a rubber mallet  I guess thats a weapon?

The operator told him to stay put, and officers, upon arrival, also told him not to throw the items from the car. First on scene were Clear Creek County Deputies Buen and Tim Collins; their superior, Sgt Kyle Gould, was supervising remotely. They were soon joined by Colorado Division of Gaming Enforcement Investigators Mary Harris and Christa Lloyd, Idaho Springs Police Officer Brittany Morrow and Colorado State Trooper Ryan Bennie.

Simon and Sally Glass have been routinely present in court in Georgetown, Colorado as seven officers have been charged; former Clear Creek deputy Andrew Buens trial on charges including second-degree murder begins this week ( Sheila Flynn )

For more than an hour, the officers alternately barked, cajoled and joked as they attempted to get Christian out of the car. He was terrified and refused; at one point the 22-year-old made heart shapes with his hands to signify peace, love and his acquiescence.

More than an hour after Clear Creek deputies first arrived, however, the situation escalated rapidly and without clear reason. Gould gave the order to breach the car  though at least one other agency can be heard in footage querying the necessity of that action. Despite that, the officers swarmed Christians maroon Honda with guns drawn, shouting; Collins jumped on the hood of the car and trained his weapon on Christian through the windshield.

Before the use of lethal force, Christian was tased  and as he thrashed around, he grabbed the small knife hat hed previously offered to throw from the car. Buen, the same deputy whod shouted at Christian not to throw the items, fired five shots into the vehicle  killing him.

Oh my god, one officer can be heard saying in the body camera footage. What did we do?

Christians parents remain incredulous at the circumstances surrounding their sons death.

You dont behave like that, Sally tells The Independent. You dont gun down kids that are scared. He didnt have weapons; I mean, he had geology tools. He wasnt a violent kid. So many innocent people in the US are gunned down every year; unfortunately, thats a culture in the police force in this country  and not all of them are bad. Honestly, there are good cops out there. But theres a chunk that arent.

Gould and Buen were both fired from Clear Creek County and indicted in Christians killing before the end of 2022. Buen was charged with second-degree murder, reckless endangerment and official misconduct; his supervisor was charged with criminally negligent homicide and reckless endangerment.

Gould pleaded guilty in November 2023 to lesser charges and, as part of the terms, is forever prohibited from working as a peace officer again. The Peace Officer Standards and Training Board revoked his licence last month.

Buen pleaded not guilty to the charges but, as his trial approached, prosecutors charged the five other officers present on the night under new legislation passed by Colorado lawmakers in 2020, in the wake of the killings of George Floyd, Elijah McClain  who was killed less than two hours away in Aurora  and similar incidents of violent police brutality across the country.

Christian poses as a child in his England top; his mother is from Canterbury and, after his funeral at Brabourne Church of England, he was buried with his grandmother ( The Glass Family )

Fifth Judicial District Attorney Heidi McCollum at the end of last year announced duty to intervene charges against Georgetown Police Officer Timothy Collins (who resigned as a Clear Creek deputy following the Glass shooting only to be hired and promoted by the towns police department); Idaho Springs Officer Brittany Morrow; Colorado State Trooper Ryan Bennie; and Division of Gaming Officers Mary Harris and Christa Lloyd; and Georgetown Marshal Randy Williams, who is also charged with third-degree assault.

The duty to intervene charges are misdemeanours penalising officers for failing to step in and de-escalate the situation. Convictions mandate that, like Gould, officers be stripped of their POST certification.

Siddhartha Rathod, a lawyer for the Glass family, told The Independent in the months following the shooting that the firm had shown the body camera footage to a lot of police officers.

Most police officers are like, I would just put my card through the window saying, Okay, you dont want our help? Your phone works. You know, call a tow truck or call us. Youve got our number, call us back - and just left, he said. Thats what the vast majority of officers would have done. In fact, almost every officer would have done that.

Collins and Williams resigned from Georgetown Police Department in February, essentially gutting law enforcement in a town that has become Ground Zero for the case. Clear Creek County Sheriff Rick Albers had resigned in July 2023 after the county Board of Commissioners issued a statement saying he had not adequately accepted responsibility for his central role in this tragedy.

Within hours of being sworn in as interim sheriff in December, Matthew Harris fired undersheriff John Stein. A 27-year law enforcement veteran, Harris had spent nearly six years as a US Marshal in Utah before coming to Colorado and has promised departmental change.

We need to learn from mistakes, but not dwell on them and make sure that our team and our patrol are focused on patrol in our training, stronger and in alignment with POST standards and best practices organizationally, and best practices around the country for traditional law enforcement, Harris said in December.

From what we understand, he has a different approach, Simon tells The Independent. He wouldnt hire murderers.

Simon and Sally Glass were awarded a $19m settlement, the largest in Colorado history, along with guarantees changes would be implemented in police training to avoid tragedies such as the death of their son ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Hes dismantling that sort of corrupt old boys club, his wife adds. Im actually pleased for the Clear Creek County residents, as well, because it was their police force, its their community, their kids are growing up in that community.

More than 1,500 jury summonses were sent out for the Buen trial, the most in Clear Creek County history  meaning one in six eligible residents received one, according to the Denver Gazette .

As the trial looms, the Glasses are doing a lot of work to stay sane, Sally says.

We take one day at a time; we get up and we just put one foot in front of the other.

Shes suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, and personally [has] a little bit of disassociation, where I look at this and I go, Really? Is that my son, really? Did that really happen to me? So Im still struggling with the reality of it all.

Simon, who thinks of his son every time he sees a maroon Honda, says: The disassociation that Sally talks about is very real.

When I talk about things with people, it is almost like Im narrating a play or something  its hard to believe that the police would do something like this.

They are unwavering in their battle to see those responsible held accountable; theyd like to see stronger charges, as well, against other officers at the scene. The Glasses have spoken out about other police-involved shootings in the interim, noting how, following the death of Tyre Nichols last year, they watched his parents dealing with the same thing were going through  just disbelief, Simon said at the time.

What are they doing? his wife asked despondently of departments across the US in the wake of such killings.

She and Simon are not yet ready to go through the piles of mail from supporters and other victims families which are currently with their lawyer, though theyve felt tremendous outpourings of sympathy from many corners.

For now, they are focused on watching firsthand as Buen stands trial in Georgetown, just minutes from where their son was shot dead.

Its been a long time coming, Simon says. Im very pleased that its going ahead. I hope that he is found guilty and justice prevails.

Sally plans to wear not only pink but also a necklace featuring two clasped hands in honour of some of Christians final gestures.

We have to stay strong for our son, and we want to support [Christian] through the trial, she says. And I think, when its all over and hopefully hes in prison, we can really properly grieve for our son  which we really feel like we havent had a chance to do yet.
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In the early hours of Monday 8 April, following a loud verbal altercation at their home in north Los Angeles, 34-year-old Danielle Johnson stabbed her partner and fled in a dark-coloured Porsche SUV with her two young children.

As the car sped down the 405 Freeway, Johnson suddenly pushed her children out of the vehicle and into the path of oncoming traffic. Her eight-month-old baby was killed, but her nine-year-old sister survived the horrific events. Their mother later died after ploughing the car into a tree.

Johnson, an astrology influencer and peddler of spiritual remedies, had recently taken to social media to warn her extensive following of an impending apocalypse ahead of the solar eclipse, which swept across North America and around the world later on Monday.

In erratic posts in the days leading up to the tragedy she told people to get their hearts in the right place and pick a side ahead of a new world order.

Police say that no instances of a domestic disturbance between Johnson and her 29-year-old boyfriend Jaelen Chaney had been reported previously and that the motive for the mother-of-twos shocking actions was still unclear.

Here is what we know:

Who was Danielle Ayoka Johnson?

Johnson  known online as Danielle Ayoka  was an astrology influencer and would-be spiritual healer, claiming to be a certified Reiki Master Teacher trained in over 10 different alternative healing modalities.

According to her website, she suffered a near-death experience at the age of three, which served as her rite of passage into Shamanism. The site says she came from a line of Indigenous Shaman and Medicine Women which caused her spiritual gifts to blossom.

She studied psychology at the undergraduate level before starting her professional career.

Johnson began tutelage with a personal healer in 2011, spending three years in training. From this, she claimed to have created a unique method of healing that combined her training with her previous knowledge of energy, physics and psychology.

She was also an aspiring musical artist  producing low-fi and electronic music under the name Ayoka.

The artist released an album in 2020, followed by several singles in 2021. The most popular track, Weekend, has around 200,000 listens on Spotify.

Business endeavours

Johnsons personal net worth is unknown, and it is unclear to whom the Porsche SUV in which she made her desperate escape belonged.

Her website offers a variety of services such as rituals, intuitive guidance, remote healing and astrology. The various aura cleanses range in price from $2.99 to $150 per month, though other family and friends packages were available.

She claimed to have subscribers worldwide, from the US and Canada to Japan, China, India, Australia, South Africa, West Africa, London, Korea, New Zealand, and Spain.

Johnson also operated a page on the online shopping platform Etsy, under the username RichGirlMagic. Item prices range around $15 with over 800 recorded sales and 100 five-star reviews.

Products listed on the page include other spiritual and healing therapies such as audio tarot, guided meditation packages, and Zodiac healing cleanses.

The Zodiac healing cleanse is described as a remote energy work service that is designed to help each sign overcome the hurdles holding them back from their full potential. The cleanses are one-time use and automatically links to your aura once purchased.

Customers must purchase the product again if they wish to repeat it. Etsy currently states that the online shop is taking a short break.

Social media

Johnson had a sizable social media following, with thousands of followers on various platforms and more than 100,000 followers on X, where she posted regularly.

As well as posts about her own products, some of her reposted articles pushed conspiracy theories about political events and the Covid-19 vaccine. Several posts shared by Johnson were marked as containing anti-Semitic content.

In the days before the solar eclipse on 8 April, Johnsons posts appeared to become more erratic, and she warned followers of an impending apocalypse  urging them to pick a side.

The Eclipse and apocalypse

This eclipse is the epitome of spiritual warfare. Get your protection on and your heart in the right place, she wrote on 4 April. The world is very obviously changing right now and if you ever needed to pick a side, the time to do right in your life is now. Stay strong you got this.

A day later on 5 April, she wrote in all capitals: Wake up wake up the apocalypse is here. Everyone who has ears listen. Your time to choose what you believe is now. If you believe a new word is possible for the people RT (retweet) now.

There is power in choice. There is power in choice! Repost to make the choice for the collective.

LAPD detectives investigating the incident on Monday told The Associated Press that while investigators have reviewed Johnsons social media posts, they did not consider the eclipse to be a contributing factor in her actions.

Weve taken all the facts we can, but without being able to interview her and without having something more tangible than a post on X, I dont know how much weight you can give to somebody (saying) theres an apocalypse and attribute it to one of the most horrific murders weve had in LA, LAPD Lt. Guy Golan said.

Following the incident other social media users replied to Johnsons pinned post, warning of the apocalypse, and speculating over her mental state  with some suggesting she was suffering from psychosis.

What happened to her children?

Johnsons nine-year-old daughter is the sole survivor of their mothers horrific killing spree. According to witnesses, the child witnessed the initial stabbing of her partner before being thrown from the moving vehicle along with her infant sister.

The pair were forcibly pushed from the vehicle, with the girl holding the eight-month-old child, Mr Golan said. Authorities said the infant was killed by oncoming traffic.

Good Samaritans found the children on the freeway and called 911. Emergency responders pronounced the baby dead at the scene, and her older sister was transported to a hospital.

The surviving child was later placed in the custody of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.

According to Fox11, the childs father currently resides out of state, though may potentially take custody of her. Specifics of the arrangement remain unclear.

Danielle Johnson was an astrology influencer and would-be spiritual healer ( @MysticxLipstick/Twitter )

Who is her boyfriend?

Police identified the 29-year-old victim of Johnsons rampage as her partner, Jaelen Allen Chaney, a former member of the US military, who had dreams of becoming a weatherman.

According to a 2020 military archive, Chaney was a senior airman with the 31 Munitions Squadron armament technician when he was stationed in Italy in December of that year.

His brother Mark Chiricas said Chaney checked in with him sporadically, and that he had travelled around Europe with Johnson while he was stationed out there.

Mr Chiricas told The Daily Mail his brother did not share details of his relationship, but had sent a concerning message to him in November 2022 that said he had been dealing with a lot but it was not appropriate to share.

The last message he sent to me was (wishing) me a happy birthday, Chiricas told the outlet. He was in the Air Force, but he had dreams to become a weatherman. He was just like the rest of us, trying to have fun and trying to have a family.

LAPD investigators said that Chaney and Johnson had been dating for around three years and were living together.

Mr Golan added that there had been no prior incidence of domestic violence ever reported between the couple, per CBS, though neighbours said that on the night of the incident they had heard a loud argument coming from their home in Woodland Hills, a neighbourhood north of LA.
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Oklahoma City is joining the search for two Kansas women who went missing in Oklahoma at the end of March.

Law enforcement officials in Oklahoma have been searching for Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, since 30 March. The two women were driving from Kansas to Oklahoma to pick up Ms Butlers children to attend a birthday party but never showed up.

A vehicle, believed to be the one the two women were traveling in, was found abandoned on Highway 95 and Road L near the Kansas and Oklahoma border

Investigators said that based on the vehicle, foul play is suspected. It is unclear at this time what was found in the vehicle.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) and Texas County Sheriffs Department were already conducting searches and investigations for Ms Butler and Ms Kelley. Now the FBI based in Oklahoma City is joining that.

A spokesperson for the FBI Oklahoma City bureau told Fox News it is providing additional resources to the investigation, but the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation remains the lead agency."

The Independent has reached out to the FBI in Oklahoma City for comment.

This photo combo shows from left, Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley ( AP )

So far no arrests have been made nor have any suspects or persons of interest been publicly identified by law enforcement officials. But officials said they are working around the clock to try and find out what happened to Ms Butler and Ms Kelley.

This includes searching the rural area where the abandoned vehicle was found in Texas County, approximately 11 miles south of Elkhart, Kansas and 260 miles northwest of Oklahoma City.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the OSBI at tips@osbi.ok.gov or 1-800-522-8017.
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An 85-year-old Idaho woman is being hailed as a hero after fatally shooting a home-invasion suspect with a handgun she kept under her pillow.

Christine Jenneiahn was sleeping in her bedroom when a man  identified by authorities as Derek Condon  broke into her Bingham County property at around 2am local time.

Her son David Jenneiahn, who is disabled, was also at home at the time.

Authorities said Ms Jenneiahn was woken up by Condon, who was dressed in a military jacket, black ski mask, and pointing a gun and flashlight at her, before she was allegedly handcuffed to a chair in her living room and shot multiple times.

According to an incident review, Condon allegedly struck Ms Jenneiahn in the head as she lay in her bed, as there was blood on the pillow and floor in her room where she had been sleeping, and before being taken to the living room.

The incident review added that Condon left Ms Jenneiahn handcuffed in her living room while he went downstairs and searched multiple rooms in her home.

However, unknown to Condon, Ms Jenneiahn had dragged the chair she was handcuffed to back to her bedroom to retrieve her 357 magnum revolver from under her pillow while he was downstairs in the property.

She then went back into the living room and hid the revolver between the arm rest and cushion of a couch next to where she was seated and waited to see what Condon did next, the review added.

Upon returning to the living room, Condon allegedly became angry with Ms Jenneiahn for not telling him her son was in the house and threatened to kill her numerous times at which point she ultimately made the decision that it was now or never and drew her concealed 357 magnum and engaged Condon striking him with both her shots, the review stated.

Condon then returned fire and shot Ms Jenneiahn multiple times in her abdomen, leg, arm, and chest before he died of his wounds in the kitchen.

Ms Jenneiahn was found by her son in her living room, where she was still handcuffed, ten hours later.

Police later arrived at the scene and discovered a screwdriver next to the door where Condon entered the home along with footprints leading from the direction of his nearby car. Condon was found to be carrying a lock pick set and a bag of stolen items from the residence.

Following the incident, Bingham County Prosecutor Ryan Jolley hailed Ms Jenneiahn as a hero, calling her actions one of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of, adding, Her grit, determination, and will to live appear to be what saved her that night.

Ms Jenneiahns case, from last month, was ruled as justifiable homicide, the Bingham Country Sheriffs Office said in a statement on Facebook.

Based on Idaho's self-defense law, which states, "No person in this state shall be placed in legal jeopardy of any kind whatsoever for protecting himself"  similar to stand your ground laws in other states of the US, killing was ruled justifiable.

Mr Jolley said that if Condon had survived the incident, he would have been charged with felony attempted murder, kidnapping, burglary, aggravated battery and grand theft.
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Paul Flores, the man convicted of murdering Kristin Smart in 1996, was stabbed in a California prison, marking the second time he has been attacked behind bars within the past year.

Flores, 47, was stabbed by a fellow inmate just before 3.30pm in the recreation yard at Pleasant Valley State Prison on Wednesday, the Associated Press reported.

After receiving treatment at an outside medical facility, he returned to the prison in a fair condition, the outlet wrote.

Officials told the outlet that the unnamed inmate who attacked Flores was placed in restricted housing.

Two inmate-manufactured weapons were recovered from the scene, officials added, noting that the assault is being investigated as an attempted homicide.

Wednesdays incident comes months after Flores was stabbed in the neck by a fellow inmate at the same prison in August. He was taken to the hospital in serious condition but returned two days later.

Its unclear if he was injured by the same inmate in both attacks.

The Independent has reached out to Floress lawyer and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for further comment.

Flores is currently serving 25 years to life in state prison for the murder of Kristin Smart. The then 19-year-old vanished from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo in 1996.

Although her body has never been recovered, she was declared legally dead in 2002.

Flores was arrested in 2021 and was convicted of first-degree murder a year later. Flores was the last person to be seen with Smart, and prosecutors alleged he killed her during an attempted rape in his dorm room when they were both students.

Smarts family sued the California college in January 2024, alleging that university officials could have prevented her death if they had handled school police reports about Flores, which were filed by four other female students.

In the reports, the four women accused Flores of stalking and harassing them  and in one case, trying to break into an apartment  months before Smarts disappearance.

Had the university acted properly, conducted a thorough investigation into Floress past concerning behaviour, and implemented appropriate disciplinary measures, Kristin would likely still be alive today. Instead, our family has been left to grieve her absence for 27 agonising years, a family statement said.
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A high school principal in New Jersey could face jail time for the way he conducted himself during a controversial confrontation with a student last year and the fallout has led to massive debate in two suburban towns.

Frank Sanchez, the principal of Columbia High School in the South OrangeMaplewood School District, was arrested and charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child and simple assault last month in connection to an incident that occurred last year.

Investigators say in March of 2023, Mr Sanchez, a white and Latino man, confronted a Black female student who was accused of bullying other students in the stairwell of the high school.

In an incident that lasted less than a minute, Mr Sanchez physically blocked the student from leaving the stairwell and entering the cafeteria. He said he was breaking up a fight.

But one month after the incident, the student filed an affirmative action complaint, alleging that Mr Sanchez grabbed her, accused her of bullying other students and pushed her against the wall. She said there was no fight or impending fight for him to break up. She also said she sustained minor injuries from the incident with Mr Sanchez.

Frank Sanchez, the principal of Columbia High School ( SOMATelevision / YouTube )

The facts of the incident are subjectively disputed. Enough so, parents, administrators, students and others in South Orange and Maplewood communities have gotten involved in the heated debate about race, class and mistrust in the school system.

Following the affirmative action complaint, the school commissioned an independent investigation into the incident. The findings of that, though disputed, recommended appropriate actions for what they described as a pattern of excessive force against Black female students.

Black Parents Workshop, an organisation that advocates for education equality for Black students, condemned Mr Sanchezs behaviour and supported the students complaint. At the end of the year, they asked the school board not to renew Mr Sanchezs contract.

But other parents supported retaining Mr Sanchez, believing he is a good leader in the high school.

Last month, the Essex County Prosecutors Office filed an arrest warrant for Mr Sanchez on the charges, which carry a maximum sentence of 10 years. He turned himself in.

Mr Sanchezs union lawyer told The New York Times that videos from the incident do not support the charges.

Ive been doing this for a long time, and its not unusual for an administrator who breaks up a fight to then have the kid accuse him of doing something, Robert Schwartz told the newspaper.

The dangers of school violence have gained national attention recently with the case of Kaylee Gain, who was seriously injured during a high school fight.

For the time being, Mr Sanchez is on paid administrative leave.

Days after his arrest, students at the school held a walkout supporting Mr Sanchez. Across the town, lawn signs bearing Friends of Frank have popped up.

But Walter Fields, the founder of Black Parents Workshop said the incident was a shameful moment for the school district.

What will it take for Black children to feel safe in their own community? What will it take for this school district to take moral responsibility and provide Black children an education to which they are legally entitled? Mr Fields said.

My suggestion is stop having conversations on race and engaging in performative acts like hanging Black Lives Matter banners across streets and begin respecting the humanity of Black children. Is that too much to ask for? This is a shameful moment for this school district that adds to a shameful history in the South Orange-Maplewood School District.
 Close OJ Simpson dies at age 76, family says

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OJ Simpson is said to have made all visitors, including his family, sign non-disclosure agreements to visit him in the days before his death.

In the 1990s, he became arguably the most infamous man in America after he was charged with the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, a waiter, who were stabbed to death. The trial in 1995 dominated the news for months, sparking contentious debate about fame, domestic abuse and racist treatment of Black Americans by the police. He was ultimately acquitted.

In 1997 Simpson was found liable for the pairs deaths in a civil proceeding. Simpson was ordered to pay $33.5 million in a judgment, but managed to avoid paying significant damages.

Sources with direct knowledge have told TMZ that somewhere between 30 to 50 people  made up of friends and other family  saw OJ in person at his home in Las Vegas before he died on Wednesday. They are all said to signed the NDAs, and no phones were allowed in the room with Simpson.

Simpson was battling prostate cancer, according to his family.

Now, Malcolm LaVergn, the executor of Simpsons estate, has vowed to prevent the payout of a $33.5m judgement to the families of Goldman and Brown Simpson, saying that he hopes to ensure that Goldmans family, in particular, get nothing.

Speaking to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Mr LaVergn, who represented Simpson for the last 15 years of his life, said: Its my hope that the Goldmans get zero, nothing.

Them specifically. And I will do everything in my capacity as the executor or personal representative to try and ensure that they get nothing.
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Several authors have turned down awards and awards nominations from PEN America, citing unhappiness with the literary and free expression organization's stance on the war in Gaza.

This week, PEN announced its long lists in categories ranging from the $75,000 Jean Stein Award for best book to the $10,000 PEN/Hemingway award for first novel. Authors who have asked for their names to be withdrawn include Jean Stein nominee Camonghne Felix, poetry finalist Eugenia Leigh and short story nominee Ghassan Zeineddine.

I decided to decline this recognition and asked to be removed from the long list in solidarity with the ongoing protest of PENs continued normalization and denial of genocide, Felix, author of the memoir Dyscalculia, wrote on X.

The awards are scheduled to be handed out during an April 29 ceremony in Manhattan, hosted by writer-comedian Jena Friedman. A PEN spokesperson said that nine out of 60 nominated authors had asked for their names to be withdrawn. PEN also confirmed that Esther Allen had declined the PEN/Ralph Manheim Award for translation and added that it would soon announce a new winner.

We respect their decision and we will celebrate these writers in other ways, said Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf, who oversees PEN's literary programming.

PENs response to Israels invasion of Gaza, following the deadly Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, has been widely criticized by writers who believe the organization has failed to fully condemn the war that has left tens of thousands of Palestinians dead, including hundreds of writers, academics and journalists.

An open letter published in March and signed by Naomi Klein, Lorrie Moore and dozens of others contends that PEN had not launched any substantial coordinated support for Palestinians and was not upholding its mission to dispel all hatreds and to champion the ideal of one humanity living in peace and equality in one world. The letter's endorsers contrasted PEN's forceful protests against the Russian invasion of Ukraine and alleged that PEN had done little to mobilize" members against the Gaza war.

Palestines poets, scholars, novelists and journalists and essayists have risked everything, including their lives and the lives of their families, to share their words with the world, the letter reads in part. "Yet PEN America appears unwilling to stand with them firmly against the powers that have oppressed and dispossessed them for the last 75 years.

A PEN spokesperson noted that the organization has issued numerous statements calling for a ceasefire and mourning the destruction of museums, libraries and mosques in Gaza, and has helped set up a $100,000 emergency fund for Palestinian writers. PEN America CEO Suzanne Nossel said in a statement that PEN shared with many the sorrow and anguish at the horrific costs of the Israel-Hamas war, including for writers, poets, artists and journalists.

We approach every conflict  Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Gaza  on its own terms, mindful of complexities, what we can contribute, our constituencies, our partners and our principles, she added. When we take positions, we do not align with states, armies or political groups but with freedom of expression and the preconditions to enable it.

The criticisms come before PEN's high-profile spring events, including the PEN literary awards and a key May 16 fund-raising gala at the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan. Klein and the letter's other signers have said they will be boycotting PEN's World Voices festival next month in Los Angeles and New York, an international gathering featuring panel discussions and lectures.

PEN does continue to attract high-profile guests, including opponents of the war,

On Friday, PEN announced that playwright-screenwriter Tony Kushner was this year's winner of the PEN/Mike Nichols Writing for Performance Award, previously given to Tina Fey, Kenneth Lonergan and Elaine May among others. Marcia Gay Harden, who starred in the 1993-94 Broadway production of Kushner's Pulitzer Prize-winning Angels in America, and Rachel Zegler, a Golden Globe winner for her performance as Maria in the 2021 Kushner-Steven Spielberg adaptation of West Side Story, will present the Nichols award during the April 29 event.

Nichols, who died in 2014, directed the acclaimed HBO Angels in America miniseries that was released in 2003.

Its intimidating enough that this honor is named after Mike Nichols, no one ever understood better than him the ways words can be made to perform. But then theres the list of past recipients, each and every one a writer I adore," Kushner said in a statement. To say I feel unworthy is not to say Im not gleefully accepting! I loved working with Mike; he was a magnificent artist and a dear friend.

"Im always pleased to be associated with PEN, whose work promoting and protecting writers is even more vitally important in turbulent, troubled times like ours.

Kushner, who is Jewish, has long criticized Israel's treatment of the Palestinians and recently told the Israeli newspaper Haaretz that the country's invasion of Gaza looks like ethnic cleansing to me. He added that the history of Jewish suffering should not be used as an excuse for a project of dehumanizing or slaughtering other people.

Tensions over the Gaza war have extended throughout the arts community. Kushner was among the defenders of last month's Oscar acceptance speech by Zone of Interest director Jonathan Glazer, who warned against dehumanization  as depicted in his Holocaust drama, winner for best international film  and stated, "Whether the victims of October the 7th in Israel, or the ongoing attack on Gaza, all the victims, this dehumanization, how do we resist?

Hundreds of Jews working in Hollywood condemned Glazer, writing in an open letter that We refute our Jewishness being hijacked for the purpose of drawing a moral equivalence between a Nazi regime that sought to exterminate a race of people, and an Israeli nation that seeks to avert its own extermination.

Kushner will not be the only war critic at the awards ceremony. PEN/Jean Stein finalist Aaliyah Bilal, who last fall as a National Book Awards nominee read a letter from the stage calling for an end to the war, said she will be attending the PEN event. The author of the debut story collection Temple Folk told The Associated Press that while she respected the decisions of those who dropped out, she was at odds with the central PEN America leadership and not those managing the awards.

They're two separate things, she said.
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A Texas transplant doctor has been accused of manipulating records for liver transplant candidates, causing a Houston medical centres liver and kidney transplant programmes to be halted.

Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center said they discovered a pattern of irregularities with donor acceptance criteria, finding problems with information entered into a database created for patients awaiting a liver transplant at the hospital.

The donor acceptance criteria include factors of age and weight of deceased donors whose livers were made available for transplant, they said in a statement to KHOU 11.

The medical centre, which declined to identify the doctor, said in a statement to the Houston Chronicle that inappropriate changes... effectively inactivated the candidates on the liver transplant waiting list.

Subsequently, these patients did not/were not able to receive organ donation offers while inactive, they added.

The liver transplant program was first halted by Memorial Hermann on 4 April, local reports say, followed closely by their kidney transplant program a few days later on 9 April, citing a shared leadership structure/

The irregularities were reported to be only limited to the liver transplant programmes.

The halting of the program has meant 38 patients on the list for the liver program and 346 patients on the kidney transplant list are now being contacted and helped by the hospital to try and find them other means of care, according to the AP.

The medical centre said in a statement that they have been actively working with all patients, families and caregivers from the liver and kidney transplant programs and that each patient is being individually contacted by a transplant care coordinator to review ongoing care options, including a seamless transition to another transplant program where necessary.

While Memorial Hermann is one of Houstons major hospitals, its liver transplant programme is relatively small compared to the rest of Texas, with only 29 liver transplants in 2023, according to federal data seen by the New York Times.

The doctor involved has been named by the New York Times as Dr J Steve Bynon Jr. The outlet reported that he allegedly manipulated a government database that made some of his own patients ineligible to receive new livers.

When contacted by the newspaper Dr Bynon declined to comment and referred questions to UTHealth Houston.

When asked if Dr Bynon is being investigated, a spokesperson for UTHealth Houston told The Independent that the Memorial Hermann program is under investigation.

In a statement, UTHealth added that Dr Bynon, along with other faculty and staff members are assisting with the inquiry into Memorial Hermanns liver transplant program and are committed to addressing and resolving any findings identified by this process.

UTHealth added that Dr Bynon is an exceptionally talented and caring physician and a pioneer in abdominal organ transplantation.

According to the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, Bynons survival rates and surgical outcomes are among the best in the nation, even while treating patients with higher-than-average acuity and disease complexity, UTHealth wrote of the doctor.

UTHealth Houston is proud of the many contributions Dr. Bynon and his team have made to our university, our academic and clinical transplant programs, and to the field of transplant medicine.

The Department of Health and Human Services also added in a statement on Tuesday that they acknowledge the severity of this allegation and are working across their department to address the matter.

We are working diligently to address this issue with the attention it deserves, they said in part, adding that they are working with a number of agencies and networks to investigate.

The Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center added in their statement that their investigation is ongoing and they are cooperating with regulatory authorities.

We are working with University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston to make the necessary changes that will allow for the quick reactivation of the kidney transplant program under a different physician leadership structure, Memorial Hermann said.

All program transplant physicians are employed by the University of Health Science Center at Houston and contracted to Memorial Hermann to provide physician services.

The Independent has contacted the Dr Bynon for comment.
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A stolen tractor-trailer rammed into a Texas public safety office, leaving one dead and at least a dozen injured.

The suspect had allegedly stolen the 18-wheeler across from the Department of Public Safety office in Brenham just before 12.30pm on Friday, with deputies chasing the vehicle before it ploughed into the office which issues drivers licences.

Clenard Parker, 42, from Chapel Hill, had been to the office on Thursday, officials said at a briefing a couple of hours after the crash.

While he was there, the divers licence staff did advise Parker that he was not eligible to renew his commercial drivers licence, Sergeant Justin Ruiz told reporters, adding that the reason for that was under investigation.

After crashing the vehicle into the building, injuring all 14 people inside, officials said Mr Parker pulled away from the building and appeared to be redying to strike again.

Brenham mayor Atwood C. Kenjura thanked first responders for preventing further tragedy.

Our fire chief mentioned that if [the suspect] had veered a little bit to the left a second time, there would have been a collapse of that building, the mayor said.

Texas state Sen Lois Kolkhorst, who represents Brenham, called the incident an intentional, criminal act after speaking to law enforcement officials.

That office right there is something known to the mayor and I and everyone in Brenham, the Senator told reporters. Weve taken our children to get their drivers licence there, Ive gotten my drivers licence there. Its a place of public service.

She then thanked law enforcement for doing everything they could to respond to the incident.

The suspect has been arrested, DPS said, adding there is no further threat to the community.

Senator Kolkhorst said that the suspect would be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Three people were reported to be in critical condition and four others suffered serious injuries, while eight received treatment at the scene.

Mr Parker faces multiple felony offences.
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A jury has convicted Donald Trump in the New York hush-money trial, making him the first US president to be convicted of a crime.

Meanwhile, he faces three other criminal indictments for withholding classified documents in Florida and attempting to overturn the 2020 election in two separate cases in Washington DC and Fulton County, Georgia. And thats all while he remains hot on the trail of another stint in the White House.

The ex-commander-in-chief  already the first in American history to be impeached twice  is also battling a number of other lawsuits relating to his business practices and personal history.

He denies all possible charges and is arguing that, in any case, a president should be granted absolute immunity from prosecution to enable them to execute difficult decisions in the Oval Office without fear of future reprisals, a matter on which the US Supreme Court could soon rule.

Despite this blizzard of controversy, conservative voters appear largely persuaded by Mr Trumps baseless political persecution narrative, which he has gleefully used to fundraise for his campaign.

The candidate has insisted he will remain in the race for the presidency whatever the outcome of the criminal cases against him.

What are the four indictments about?

Mr Trumps troubles began in April 2023, when he became the first-ever former or current American president to be hit with criminal charges when a New York City grand jury voted to indict him over an alleged $130,000 hush money payment made to the porn star Stormy Daniels just prior to the 2016 election.

He pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in order to the hide the payout to Ms Daniels, allegedly made to suppress her allegation about an extramarital sexual encounter in 2006 that might have cost him valuable support at the polls.

His second indictment followed that June, when Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith handed down federal charges against Mr Trump and his valet, Walt Nauta, with 37 counts related to the unlawful retention of classified documents post-presidency and the obstruction of justice.

A second Trump employee, Carlos De Oliveira, was later also caught up in the case, brought about after the FBI raided his private residence, Mar-a-Lago, in search of boxes of classified documents he had declined to return to the National Archives.

Donald Trump appears in a Manhattan court in April 2023 ( AP )

Mr Trumps third indictment, again courtesy of Mr Smith, occurred in August and pertained to the 2020 election and his role in kickstarting the Capitol riot.

The former president was then indicted for a fourth time in Georgia later that month, this time charged by Fulton County district attorney Fani Willis with 13 counts related to an alleged conspiracy to alter the election result in the swing state in the aftermath of his defeat to Joe Biden.

He was charged alongside 18 other defendants, including Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows and Sidney Powell, in an indictment containing a total of 41 counts related to racketeering.

Mr Trump has further been found liable for the sexual abuse and defamation of magazine columnist E Jean Carroll and for fraud over the Trump Organizations systematic inflation of the value of its assets to secure favourable terms from lenders, which yielded a $464m judgement against him earlier this year.

So can he still run for president?

There are no explicit restrictions in the US Constitution to prevent anyone convicted of a crime  or even currently serving prison time, for that matter  from running for or winning the presidency.

That said, a clause contained within the 14th Amendment was enough to convince the Colorado Supreme Court and Maines secretary of state that Mr Trump should be removed from ballot papers over his part in inciting the events of January 6.

However, the former president was able to successfully appeal both of those decisions and the matter ended up in the conservative-majority Supreme Court. There, the justices ignored the question of whether or not he had engaged in an insurrection but determined unanimously that only Congress could disqualify a candidate for federal office.

But despite his conviction, Mr Trump would still be free to run the entirety of his campaign from a prison cell.

What is far less clear is what would happen if he were to win.

Trumps booking mugshot released by the Fulton County Sheriffs Office in August 2023 ( Reuters )

Just as there are no restrictions in the Constitution on a person running while under indictment, there is no explanation of what should occur if they go on to win, not even an automatic reprieve from prison time.

State-level charges like the ones filed by Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg or Ms Willis fall outside of any prospective presidential pardoning power. Its unclear if Trump will get jail time in the hush money case, but if he should win the 2024 vote while facing prison, it would likely lead to a massive legal brawl to determine whether there was a way for him to wriggle out of serving time.

If Trump was unable to avoid jail, it would almost certainly lead to his impeachment (for a jaw-dropping third time) or his removal via the 25th Amendment.

There are many duties and trappings of the presidency he would simply be unable to fulfil from a prison cell  the viewing of classified materials, to name just one.

While much remains unknown, the conversations Donald Trump has started with his bid for the presidency under such troubled circumstances have already pushed theoretical constitutional law into much darker places than many experts ever believed they might live to see.

This story was updated on 30 May 2024 to reflect new developments.
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A longtime attorney for Donald Trump who is expected to be a key witness in a criminal case targeting the former presidents possession of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago has reportedly left his legal team.

Evan Corcoran, who recused himself from the Florida case last year, is no longer representing the former president in any of his criminal and civil cases, according to CNN, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter.

Mr Corcoran quickly found himself at the centre of the classified documents case after he was hired to represent the former president, who faces a 40-count indictment alleging violations of the Espionage Act, obstruction, and the illegal removal of federal records after he left the White House.

His prolific notes and voice recordings that reportedly detail his exchanges with Mr Trump have become central to special counsel Jack Smiths prosecution, revealing how the former president allegedly misled his then-attorney about his mishandling of sensitive documents and attempts to evade a subpoena.

Mr Corcoran ultimately stepped down from the case one year ago following his testimony to a federal grand jury while his client tried, and failed, to block his communications by invoking attorney-client privilege.

A ruling from a federal appeals court panel last year effectively forced Mr Corcoran to turn over documents  including recordings of Mr Trump  to the grand jury.

Despite his recusal from the case, Mr Corcoran later joined Mr Trump at a federal courthouse in Washington DC when the former president was arraigned on charges connected to his scheme to overturn election results in 2020.

The Independent has requested comment from Mr Corcoran and a spokesperson for the Trump campaign.

A statement from Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung to CNN claims that Mr Corcoran remains on the former presidents legal team.

But the alleged departure of a key lawyer listed as Trump Attorney 1 in the Mar-a-Lago indictment could potentially pose a liability for the presumed Republican nominee for president as he battles four separate criminal cases in four jurisdictions, with his so-called hush money trial for allegedly falsifying business records due to begin on 15 April.

Evan Corcoran leaves a federal courthouse in West Palm Beach, Florida in September 2022. ( AFP via Getty Images )

Mr Corcorans detailed memos have provided prosecutors with evidence of an alleged scheme to undermine subpoenas from the US Department of Justice  and Mr Trumps own apparent request to get rid of potentially damning evidence in his possession.

At one point, after Mr Corcoran performed a search of Mar-a-Lago, Mr Trump appeared to ask him if he found anything incriminating among a cache of 38 documents and suggested he pluck them out, according to prosecutors.

Did you find anything?  Is it bad? Good? Mr Trump said, according to the indictment.

Mr Trump then reportedly discussed bringing documents to his hotel room and made a plucking motion during their conversation.

OK, why dont you take them with you to your hotel room and if theres anything really bad in there, like, you know, pluck it out, Mr Corcoran interpreted the conversation, according to his interview with investigators.

Brian Butler, a Mar-a-Lago worker identified in the indictment as Trump Employee 5, also told CNN that Mr Corcoran unknowingly helped Mr Trump move several boxes allegedly containing classified materials to an airport while Mr Trump was greeting federal investigators at his property in June 2022.

A political action committee that is largely serving as the bank for Mr Trumps legal fees paid $1.2m to Mr Corcorans law firm in 2022, according to federal filings. His firm received at least another $2.2m last year, filings show.
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A special prosecutor has been assigned to look into whether Georgia Lt Gov Burt Jones should face criminal charges over efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election in the state.

The Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia announced Thursday that its executive director, Pete Skandalakis, will handle the matter after Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis was barred from prosecuting Jones as part of her election interference case against former President Donald Trump and others.

Jones was one of 16 state Republicans who signed a certificate stating that Mr Trump had won Georgia and declaring themselves the states duly elected and qualified electors even though Democrat Joe Biden had been declared the winner in the state. As a state senator in the wake of the election, he also sought a special session of Georgias Legislature aimed at overturning Bidens narrow win in the state.

As Ms Willis was investigating possible illegal election meddling by Mr Trump and others, Mr Jones argued that Ms Willis should not be able to pursue charges against him because she had hosted a fundraiser for his Democratic opponent in the lieutenant governors race. Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney ruled in July 2022 that Willis actions created an actual and untenable conflict of interest.

Judge McBurneys ruling left it up to the Prosecuting Attorneys Council, a nonpartisan state agency that supports district attorneys, to appoint a prosecutor to decide whether Mr Jones should be charged. Right after Mr Trump and the others were indicted, Mr Skandalakis said he would begin looking for an appropriate prosecutor. But he instead decided to appoint himself.

The statement announcing Mr Skandalakis appointment cites state bar rules and says that no further comments will be made at this time.

Mr Jones has previously denied wrongdoing, saying he and other electors acted on the advice of lawyers to preserve Mr Trumps chances if the former president won a court challenge that was pending at the time. Three others who signed the Republican elector certificate were among those indicted along with Mr Trump in August by a Fulton County grand jury.

In a statement Thursday, Mr Jones welcomed the news of Mr Skandalakiss appointment.

Im happy to see this process move forward and look forward to the opportunity to get this charade behind me, Mr Jones said. Fani Willis has made a mockery of this legal process, as she tends to do. I look forward to a quick resolution and moving forward with the business of the state of Georgia.

Mr Trump and the 18 others indicted in August were accused of participating in a wide-ranging scheme to illegally try to overturn Mr Trumps loss in Georgia. Four people have pleaded guilty after reaching deals with prosecutors. The others, including the former president, have pleaded not guilty. No trial date has been set.
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Vice-president Kamala Harris is set to hit out at Donald Trump over the recent Arizona abortion ban based on Civil War-era legislation in a visit to the state on Friday.

The Biden campaign has recently released statements blaming the former president for ripping away fundamental rights when Roe v Wade was overturned by the US Supreme Court in 2022.

Ms Harris, who has been at the forefront of leading the reaction towards the overturning of Roe v Wade and abortion rights, is now slated to speak on the recent Arizona abortion ban in Tuscon and will condemn Mr Trump.

We all must understand who is to blame: It is the former president, Donald Trump, Ms Harris will say before a crowd of reproductive health patients and providers, according to excerpts from a campaign official seen by Reuters.

Heres what a second Trump term looks like: more bans, more suffering, less freedom. But we are not going to let that happen, the vice-president will add.

Arizonas Supreme Court upheld a near-total abortion ban in the state on Tuesday, a ban that rests on a law from 158 years ago.

Political strategists have prophesied that this recent ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court may affect citizens voting, suggesting that even Republican-leaning moderate voters could swing towards Democrats on the ballot.

Ms Harris already visited Arizonas capital, Phoenix, last month in a Fight for Reproduction Freedoms tour in which she called in on 20 different states, including visiting a health clinic that offers abortion services in Minnesota, the first sitting vice-president believed to ever do so.

The Biden campaign also released a video a day before the Arizona ban depicting a Texas woman speaking out about how she almost died after she was denied an abortion following a miscarriage.

A protester holds a sign reading My Body My Choice at a womens march rally outside the State Capitol on 8 October 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona ( Getty Images )

After the clip, the words Trump did this appeared on a black screen as the woman burst into tears.

The post added that one in three women in the United States now live under an abortion ban, and in a statement on Tuesday, Mr Biden pledged that they will continue to fight to protect reproductive rights and call on Congress to pass a law restoring the protections of Roe v Wade for women in every state.

Mr Trump has also spoken out about the abortion ban in the border state when a reporter asked him if Arizona went too far with their abortion ban that is upheld on a Civil War-era law.

Yeah, they did, Mr Trump replied. Thatll be straightened out, as you know, its all about states rights, itll be straightened out.

However, Mr Trump has been a stark supporter of putting the decisions over abortions back to the states and has repeatedly taken credit for overturning Roe v Wade, a ruling that has now led to Arizonas decision to outlaw most abortions in the state.

President Trump could not have been more clear. These are decisions for people of each state to make, said Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson, later said after Wednesdays remarks.

However, strategists now believe this new ban at the border state will present opportunities for Democrats to mobilise votes as they refer back to where this stemmed from Roe v Wade.

This was an earthquake of epic proportions in Arizona politics, Barrett Marson, a Phoenix-based Republican strategist, told Reuters this week.

Any time Republicans are talking about abortion, theyre losing. Now, I think the only issue is going to be abortion.

Alongside Mr Trump, other Republicans have started to retreat from an anti-abortion standpoint after Arizonas Supreme Court decision, such as Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake, who in the past has remarked she was thrilled at the prospect of her state banning abortions except when the patients life is in danger.

However, Ms Lake seemingly went back on herself and declared that she opposed the ruling, along with other Arizona lawmakers who have come out in opposition to the ruling despite endorsing the ban in previous years.
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The son of Colorado Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert told a judge that he was struggling to find a lawyer he could afford, to defend him in his trial over alleged car break-ins and property theft.

Tyler Boebert, 19, appeared at the Garfield County Court on Thursday to hear the 14 charges against him, including felony counts for identity theft.

Westword reported that 9th Judicial District Judge John F Neiley told Mr Boebert that he liked the young mans suit, saying: "I appreciate it when people dress for court.

Despite his sharp suit, Mr Boebert told the judge that he was appearing without legal representation, as he was struggling to find one he could afford.

Tyler Boebert was arrested in February over alleged robbery and property theft incidents in Rifle, Colorado ( Rifle Police Department )

"We are working to hire an attorney, but its just been kind of hard with the prices," the defendant told the judge.

"Worst-case scenario, if we cant get something figured out with the lawyer, then were going to apply for a public defender or whatever works best for me."

Rifle Police Department arrested Mr Boebert in February, after a recent string of vehicle trespass and property thefts.

At the time, his Republican lawmaker mother released a statement saying her son had been through some difficult, public challenges.

It breaks my heart to see my child struggling and, in this situation, especially when he has been provided multiple opportunities to get his life on track, the Republican said.

The 19-year-old hit the headlines last year when Ms Boebert announced she was becoming a grandmother at 36, with Tyler becoming a dad.

Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert pictured in February 2024 ( Getty Images )

The right-wing representative spoke of her joy at her sons partner choosing life, as a long-time anti-abortionist.

Ms Boebert is no stranger to dealing with law enforcement, having been arrested herself for disorderly conduct in 2015 while at a music festival in Colorado.

The following year, Ms Boebert was pulled over for speeding and was arrested for not paying a ticket, while her gun-themed restaurant Shooters was handed a restraining order in 2020 for breaking Covid laws.

Then, earlier this year, Ms Boebert was granted a restraining order against her ex-husband, Jayson Boebert, who she divorced last year.

Their divorce was finalised shortly after the congresswoman was ejected from a theatre in Denver, where she was accused of vaping and groping her date during a performance of Beetlejuice.

Police were called out to a restaurant in Silt, where the couple had gotten into an altercation, on 6 January 2024. Mr Boebert had reportedly got drunk, had been cursing and yelling, and refused to leave the restaurant.

A few days later, Mr Boebert was arrested on suspicion of assaulting one of his sons, as well as criminal mischief, prohibited use of a firearm, obstructing a peace officer, trespassing and disorderly conduct in connection to both incidents.

Within a few weeks, Tyler Boebert was arrested over incidents on 19 and 20 February, in which he and some underage friends allegedly robbed multiple people in Rifle.

He is next due in court on 9 May, where he is expected to present an attorney or a public defender.
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Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene laid into Speaker of the House Mike Johnson on Friday, criticising his support for a legislative package that includes funding for Ukraine and accusing him of bothering Donald Trump by meeting with him.

Speaking with Steve Bannon on his show War Room, Ms Greene said that Mr Johnson supporting a US spending bill that would send funding to Ukraine made her stomach flip over.

The American people are the ones writing the cheque and I absolutely hate everybody here doing this, Ms Greene said. I mean I seriously hate them for doing this for the American people and paying for the murder and slaughter of the people in Ukraine.

Ms Greene, a member of the far-right faction of the House of Representatives, is a vocal opposer of sending any funding to Ukraine. Last month, when the House passed a spending bill  in part to keep the government from shutting down  she filed a motion to vacate Mr Johnson.

The Georgia representative downplayed the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, saying that the Russian president Vladimir Putin has not said he will invade other parts of Europe and therefore the US should not get involved.

Vladimir Putin has not said he wants to go march across Europe and take Europe and the reality is Ukraine is not even a Nato member nation, Ms Greene added.

Her views echo that of her close ally, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. He has pushed for a more isolationist foreign policy stance and said he would negotiate a deal to end the Ukraine war, even if it means giving Russia a portion of land.

But Ms Greene and Mr Trumps stance on Ukraine is unpopular among the majority of Congress and deviates from Mr Johnsons goal of getting the funding package passed.

Mr Johnson is meeting with Mr Trump on Friday to make an election integrity announcement but the mens differing opinions of Ukraine may come up during questions.

When asked what advice she had for Mr Trump ahead of the meeting with Mr Johnson, Ms Greene said the former president should be focusing on his campaign and his upcoming criminal trials  the first of which will begin on Monday.

He doesnt need to be worrying about what Mike Johnson is trying to talk him into, Ms Greene said.

The Georgia representative accused Mr Johnson of trying to saddle up to the former president because hes scared of a motion to vacate.

Ms Greene previously said her motion to vacate was just a warning to Mr Johnson for now. But tensions between Mr Johnson and the far-right faction have been heating up and they could try to remove him.

Kevin McCarthy found himself in a similar situation last year when Florida representative Matt Gaetz successfully invoked the motion to vacate.

Should the motion move to a vote, several Democrats said they would oppose the motion to save Mr Johnson but only if Mr Johnson moves forward with Ukraine aid.

They know I mean exactly every single word I say and Im not full of s*** just like Mike Johnson is and Im actually going to follow through with action instead of lie to people on television, Ms Greene said.
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Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson are planning to push a bill to ban non-citizens from voting during an appearance at Mar-a-Lago  something which is already illegal.

Mr Johnson is set to hold a press conference at the former presidents residence on Friday, part of longstanding Republican attack lines against Democrats. There is little evidence to suggest that non-citizen voting is a widespread issue throughout the different states. In a study of the 2016 election by the Brennan Center, researchers found that just 0.0001 per cent of voters across 42 jurisdictions, encompassing 23.5m votes, were suspected to be non-citizens who managed to vote - that is an estimated 30 incidents in total.

However, Donald Trump has incessantly laid down claims of election fraud and has subsequently spoken about his unsupported theory that migrants are in the United States because they are being signed up to vote.

I think they really are doing it because they want to sign these people up to vote. I really do, Mr Trump said at an Iowa rally in January. They cant speak a word of English for the most part, but theyre signing them up.

Non-citizens are already not allowed to vote in United States federal elections under the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 and no states allow non-citizens to vote at state-level, and in most local elections, either.

More recently, Mr Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday to post a statement in an apparent response to reports that President Joe Biden may be taking executive actions to reduce migrant crossings.

However, the former president claimed that Mr Biden opposes deportations and wants to turn his illegal migrants into voting citizens.

Yet studies on voting fraud relating to non-citizens voting show that numbers are not astronomically high, and that cases have been very rare in the past.

Since 2002, there have been just 85 cases of alleged non-citizen voting in the United States, according to a database compiled by The Heritage Foundation.

There are only three states and Washington DC that have municipalities that allow noncitizens to vote in certain local elections, which are very few and far between, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Non-citizens are not likely to try and vote as it puts them at risk of deportation and revocation of their legal status; illegally voting in a federal election can also result in a fine and one year in federal prison, the centre says.

The supposed bill comes at a time when border security has become one of the key focuses surrounding the race to the White House, with both Mr Trump and President Joe Biden targeting each other over border policies.

Mr Biden has repeatedly slammed Mr Trump and his Republican allies for blocking a bipartisan compromise bill earlier this year that would have seen sweeping changes in the US immigration system in exchange for aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.

This is literally the truth, what happened was when Trump found out that I liked it and I supported it, and Id get, quote, credit for it, he got on the phone  not a joke  checked with the Republicans and called them and said, dont be for it, will benefit Biden, the president in an interview on Tuesday with Univision.

When the hell would you vote on a major piece of legislation based on whether you benefit somebody thats in politics? Its either good or its bad. It was a good piece of legislation, and Im not giving up on it.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson travelled to Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate to promote a bill that would ban noncitizens from voting, which is already illegal.

Mr Johnson, behind a lectern bearing the clubs logo, claimed that election integrity is tied to a lack of border security, which he claims is the most important issue facing American voters.

With the former president at his side on Friday, Mr Johnson promoted legislation that would require citizenship to cast a ballot, alleging that Democratic officials designs for an open border intend to turn these people into voters.

The many millions of illegals in the country could turn an election, he said.

Fridays event  featuring the man who is third in line for the presidency alongside the presumed Republican nominee for the presidency  echoed the baseless far-right great replacement conspiracy theory that appeared to be designed to sow doubt about election outcomes in the event Mr Trump loses a second time.

The so-called great replacement theory posits that Democratic officials are intentionally allowing nonwhite minorities into the US to replace voting populations.

Mr Johnson played a central role among members of Congress in rejecting Mr Trumps loss in the 2020 presidential election, and he took the lead in a brief to the US Supreme Court with 125 other House Republicans to support Mr Trumps failed legal challenge to overturn President Joe Bidens victories in several states.

He later voted against certifying Mr Bidens win during a joint session of Congress on 6 January 2021, even after the Trump-fuelled riots at the US Capitol.

In the months after Mr Trumps election loss in 2020, GOP officials began promoting so-called election integrity legislation that echoed many of the false claims promoted by Mr Trump and his allies to discredit election officials and policies that certified his loss.

There is virtually no evidence that noncitizens are voting in federal elections at a scale that Mr Trump has baselessly alleged, continuing his false narrative of widespread election fraud that paved the way for a mob of his supporters to storm the halls of Congress to reject the results by force.

Donald Trumps speaks at Mar-a-Lago on 12 April with House Speaker Mike Johnson. ( AP )

Here, his ongoing claims that elections are rigged against him dovetailed with his anti-immigrant platform, as Republicans make US-Mexico border security a central pillar of 2024 campaigns.

Federal law already prohibits noncitizens from casting ballots in federal elections, and only a handful of states have allowed noncitizens to vote in local or municipal elections.

As fact-checkers across the board have made clear, it is already illegal for noncitizens to vote in federal elections. The American people see through todays stunt, which amounts to House Republicans wasting time, according to a statement from White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates.

In his remarks, Mr Trump claimed we have an election problem and demanded that the US-Mexico border be closed.

Millions and millions are pouring in that no ones reporting, he said. Some are terrorists  They come from jails and prisons, they come from mental institutions and insane asylums They come from all over the world.

Mr Trump  who has previously stated that immigrants are poisoning the blood of the US  has repeatedly falsely alleged that unreported millions of people are pouring into the country, which is not supported by federal government data.
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Donald Trumps valet said he mistook boxes containing secret documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate for boxes of hairspray, according to a transcript of an FBI interview.

According to the May 2022 interview transcript, the former presidents valet Walt Nauta repeatedly insisted that he thought the boxes of classified documents on Mr Trumps property contained news clippings, hairspray, shampoo, picture frames and other miscellaneous materials.

The documents are now at the centre of one of four criminal cases against Mr Trump, while Mr Nauta has been charged with conspiring to conceal documents as well as lying to the FBI in his interview about the location and movement of boxes of documents at Mar-a-Lago. He has pleaded not guilty.

The transcript shows that during the interview, Mr Nauta was asked by investigators whether he was aware of Mr Trump showing a document with classified markings to people while on a plane. No such event was alleged in the indictment against Mr Trump.

Mr Nauta told investigators that he was not aware of nor had he heard of any such incident, and noted that he normally sat at the back of the plane when travelling with the former president.

During the interview, FBI agents also laid out for Mr Nauta, who served in the military, why they were interested in the whereabouts of any sensitive government documents, adding that they were trying to figure out if classified documents were at least kept in a somewhat controlled environment or could they have been exposed to a foreign intelligence service.

They stressed that if certain information may have been compromised then they would need to inform intelligence agencies who could determine whether to shut down certain operations.

Like its not worth the risk, weve got to shut it down because we dont want, we dont want these peoples lives to be on the line, we dont want, like, people to, to know that our ships have these capabilities, one FBI agent said.

But it would be a lot easier if we can tell them for sure X, Y and Z so they know exactly what needs to be shut down and what doesnt, right? So thats kind of the reason why were looking into this, they added.

Mr Trump was charged in June last year by special counsel Jack Smith with illegally retaining classified documents taken with him from the White House to Mar-a-Lago after he left office in January 2021, and then obstructing government demands to give them back.

He was hit with additional charges in July accusing him of conspiring to ask a staffer to delete surveillance video at the Florida property in an effort to obstruct a federal investigation into the records.

Prosecutors said the footage captured Mr Nauta moving boxes of documents in and out of a storage room  including a day before an FBI visit to the property. The boxes were moved at Mr Trumps direction, the indictment alleges.

The indictment also charged the former president with illegally holding onto a document hes alleged to have shown off to visitors in New Jersey.

Mr Trump has denied all the charges against him, characterizing them as nothing more than a continued desperate and flailing attempt by the Biden administration to harass President Trump and those around him and to influence the 2024 presidential race.

He is the first president in US history to face a criminal trial. He is also facing two separate trials related to his efforts to overturn the result of the 2020 election, and another trial for allegedly falsifying business records in order to cover up payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels and others to stop them from going public days before the 2016 presidential election about alleged affairs.
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Polands government on Friday called the killing of a Polish aid worker by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza a murder, and demanded Israel's support for a Polish investigation into the case.

Deputy Foreign Minister Wadysaw Teofil Bartoszewski told lawmakers in parliament that the April 1 death of Damian Sobol, 35, and six other workers of the World Central Kitchen charity who were distributing food in Gaza was shocking and disturbing.

Poland expects Israel's full cooperation in the investigation opened by Polish prosecutors in Sobols hometown of Przemysl in Polands southeast, Bartoszewski said. The prosecutors have classified it as a murder, he said.

Israel conducted a speedy investigation and took responsibility for the deaths, but said the attack that killed the aid workers and their Palestinian driver was a tragic mistake. It shared the findings with the countries that lost citizens in the attack. The Israeli military dismissed two officers and reprimanded three others, saying they violated the armys rules of engagement.

Bartoszewski said that the dismissals and disciplinary measures were inadequate, and demanded that the case be tried by an independent court in Israel.

During a debate in the Polish parliament, many lawmakers said the killings should be considered a war crime.

Bartoszewski said Poland was working with other countries whose citizens were killed in the shelling  Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States  to jointly press for a detailed investigation into how cars marked as humanitarian convoy could have become targets of repeated shelling by the Israeli army.

He stressed that all international rules of defense were violated by that attack.

Bartoszewski also said that Poland is demanding compensation for the family of Sobol, whose body has been brought back to Poland.
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If the choice was death or a bullet to the leg, Yevgeny would take the bullet. A decorated hero of Russias war in Ukraine, Yevgeny told his friend and fellow soldier to please aim carefully and avoid bone. The tourniquets were ready.

The pain that followed was the price Yevgeny paid for a new chance at life. Like thousands of other Russian soldiers, he deserted.

I joke that I gave birth to myself, he said, declining to give his full name for fear of retribution. When a woman gives birth to a child, she experiences very intense pain and gives new life. I gave myself life after going through very intense pain.

Yevgeny made it out of the trenches. But the new life he found is not what he had hoped for.

Five officers and one soldier who deserted the Russian military have given interviews. All have criminal cases against them in Russia, where they face 10 years or more in prison. Each is waiting for a welcome from the West that has never arrived. Instead, all but one live in hiding.

For Western nations grappling with Russias vast and growing diaspora, Russian soldiers present particular concern: Are they spies? War criminals? Or heroes?

I did the right thing, said another deserter who goes by the nickname Sparrow, who is living in hiding in Kazakhstan while he waits for his asylum applications to be processed. After being forcibly conscripted, he ran away from his barracks because he didn't want to kill anyone. Id rather sit here and suffer and look for something than go there and kill a human being because of some unclear war, which is 100 percent Russias fault. I dont regret it.

A Russian officer who goes by the nickname Sportsmaster speaks with reporters at his apartment in Astana, Kazakhstan ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Asylum claims from Russian citizens have surged since the full-scale invasion, but few are winning protection. Policymakers remain divided over whether to consider Russians in exile as potential assets or risks to national security.

Andrius Kubilius, a former prime minister of Lithuania now serving in the European Parliament, argues that cultivating Russians who oppose Vladimir Putin is in the strategic self-interest of the West. Fewer Russian soldiers at the front, he added, means a weaker army.

Not to believe in Russian democracy is a mistake, Kubilius said. To say that all Russians are guilty is a mistake.

Independent Russian media outlet Mediazona has documented more than 7,300 cases in Russian courts against AWOL soldiers since September 2022; cases of desertion, the harshest charge, leapt sixfold last year.

Record numbers of people seeking to desert  more than 500 in the first two months of this year  are contacting Idite Lesom, or Get Lost, a group run by Russian activists in the Republic of Georgia. Last spring, just 3% of requests for help came from soldiers seeking to leave; in January, more than a third did, according to the groups head, Grigory Sverdlin.

Overall, Sverdlins group says it has supported more than 26,000 Russians seeking to avoid military service and helped more than 520 active-duty soldiers and officers flee  a drop in the bucket compared with Russias overall troop strength, but an indicator of morale in a country that has made it a crime to oppose the war.

Obviously, Russian propaganda is trying to sell us a story that all Russia supports Putin and his war, Sverdlin said. "But thats not true.

This late 2023 photo shows downtown Astana, Kazakhstan, where some Russian soldiers who deserted the war in Ukraine live ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The question now is, where can they go?

Farhad Ziganshin, an officer who deserted shortly after Putin's September 2022 mobilization decree, was detained in Kazakhstan while trying to board a flight to Armenia because local authorities found his name on a Russian wanted list.

Its not safe to stay in Kazakhstan, Ziganshin said. I just try to lead a normal life, without violating the laws of Kazakhstan, without being too visible, without appearing anywhere. We have a proverb: Be quieter than water and lower than grass.

Farhad Ziganshin, a Russian officer who deserted in 2022, takes a walk after work in Astana, Kazakhsta ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

He's still waiting on his asylum applications.

German officials have said that Russians fleeing military service can seek protection, and a French court last summer ruled that Russians who refuse to fight can claim refugee status. In practice, however, its proven difficult for deserters, most of whom have passports that only allow travel within a handful of former Soviet states, to get asylum, lawyers, activists and deserters say.

Fewer than 300 Russians got refugee status in the U.S. in fiscal year 2022. And less than 10% of the 5,246 people whose applications were processed last year got some sort of protection from German authorities.

But Russians continue to flee. Customs and Border Patrol officials encountered more than 57,000 Russians at U.S. borders in fiscal year 2023, up from around 13,000 in fiscal year 2021. Affirmative asylum requests nearly quadrupled, to almost 9,000, in the year ending September 2022, the latest data available.

A Russian officer who goes by the nickname Sportsmaster speaks during an interview at his apartment ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

In France, asylum requests rose more than 50% between 2022 and 2023, to a total of around 3,400 people, according to the French office that handles the requests. And last year, Germany got 7,663 first-time asylum applications from Russian citizens, up from 2,851 in 2022, Germanys Interior Ministry told AP in an email. None of the data specifies how many were soldiers.

Another Russian officer, nicknamed Sportsmaster, made a video diary of his escape. As he was about to leave Russia, he did what he could to make a grand gesture to demonstrate his opposition to the war.

They wanted to force me to go fight against the free people of Ukraine, he said to his camera. Putin wanted me to be in a bag, but its his uniform that will be in a bag.

He shoved his military uniforms in two black trash bags and threw them in a dumpster.

The worst thing that could have happened has happened, he said after crossing out of Russia with the remnants of his former life stuffed in one small backpack. Now only good things are coming.

Sportsmaster is an optimist. In fact, deserters have been seized by Russian forces in Armenia, deported from Kazakhstan and turned up dead, riddled with bullets, in Spain.

There is no mechanism for Russians who do not want to fight, deserters, to get to a safe place, Yevgeny said. He urges Western policymakers to reconsider. After all, its much cheaper economically to allow a person into your country  a healthy young man who can work  than to supply Ukraine with weapons.
 Close UK has fasttracked the production of laser energy and radio waves weaponry

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German chancellor Olaf Scholz said he urged Chinese president Xi Jinping to press Russia to end its war in Ukraine.

Mr Scholz told Mr Xi in a meeting in Beijing on Tuesday that Chinas word carries weight in Russia.

I have therefore asked president Xi to influence Russia so that Putin finally calls off his senseless campaign, withdraw his troops and ends this terrible war, he wrote on social media platform X.

Earlier, a Russian source said Moscow was ready to redeploy Wagner troops working in Africa to bolster its offensive in Ukraine.

The source claimed Russian authorities are preparing to redeploy unspecified detachments of the Africa Corps from Africa to Belgorod, Ukraine, according to US think tank Institute for the Study of War.
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The French foreign ministry has told its citizens not to travel to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Irans threats against its regional adversary.

In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

Germany and Britain urged countries in the Middle East to show restraint on Thursday. The plea comes as Israel said it was preparing to meet all its security needs in a region on edge over an Iranian threat to strike Israel.

The German airline Lufthansa, one of only two Western carriers flying to Tehran, extended a suspension of its flights to the Iranian capital and Russia warned against travel to the Middle East.

Iran has vowed revenge for the April 1 airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus that killed a top Iranian general and six other Iranian military officers, ratcheting up tension in a region already strained by the Gaza war.

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack, but Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Wednesday Israel must be punished and it shall be, saying it was tantamount to an attack on Iranian soil.

The imperative for Iran to punish this rogue regime might have been avoided had the U.N. Security Council condemned the strike and brought the perpetrators to justice, Tehrans mission to the United Nations said on Thursday.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was keeping up its war in Gaza but making security preparations elsewhere.

Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively, he said in comments released following a visit to an air force base.

Iran has signalled to Washington that it will respond to Israels attack in a way that aims to avoid major escalation and it will not act hastily, Iranian sources said.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran, Gallants office said.

Conflict has spread across the Middle East since the eruption of the Gaza war, with Iran-backed groups declaring support for the Palestinians waging attacks from Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq. Tehran has avoided direct confrontation with Israel or the United States, while declaring support for its allies.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called on her Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian to urge maximum restraint to avoid further escalation.

Russias foreign ministry told citizens they should not travel to the Middle East, especially to Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories.

Right now its very important for everyone to maintain restraint so as not to lead to a complete destabilisation of the situation in the region, which doesnt exactly shine with stability and predictability, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told a news briefing.

British foreign minister David Cameron said on Thursday he had made clear to Amirabdollahian that Iran should not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict.

I am deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence, Cameron said on X.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Secretary of State Antony Blinken called counterparts including the Turkish, Chinese and Saudi foreign ministers to make clear that escalation is not in anyones interest and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate.

Trucks carrying humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip pass through the inspection area at the Kerem Shalom Crossing ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press All rights reserved )

US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday Iran was threatening to launch a significant attack in Israel, and that he had told Netanyahu that our commitment to Israel security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is iron-clad.

The US expects an attack by Iran against Israel but one that would not be big enough to draw Washington into war, a US official said late on Thursday.

The US military said on Thursday it had destroyed an anti-ship ballistic missile launched from an area of Yemen controlled by Iran-backed Houthi militia. No injuries or damage were reported to US, coalition or merchant vessels.

Iran is the third-largest oil producer in the OPEC group and oil prices stayed near six-month highs on Thursday.

Late on Wednesday, an Iranian news agency published an Arabic report on the X platform saying the air space over Tehran had been closed for military drills, but then removed the report and denied it had issued such news.

Lufthansa said it would probably not fly to Tehran before April 13. Austrian Airlines said it was still planning to fly on Thursday but was adjusting timings to avoid crew having to disembark for an overnight layover.

Iranian air space is also a key overflight route for Emirates and Qatar Airways flights to Europe and North America.

Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Aeroflot and Air Arabia, among the airlines that fly to Tehran, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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Scientists have discovered a new process that could supercharge the transition to next-generation rechargeable batteries capable of more than doubling the range of current electric vehicles.

The research could help facilitate a switch from conventional lithium-ion batteries  which are found in everything from smartphones to electric cars  to solid-state sodium batteries, which are both cheaper and safer.

Solid-state sodium batteries are also made of materials that are far more abundant than their lithium-ion counterparts, however until now mass production has proved difficult.

A team from Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan claim the newly discovered process could overcome this obstacle through the mass synthesis of a highly conductive electrolyte.

This newly developed process is useful for the production of almost all sodium-containing sulfide materials, including solid electrolytes and electrode active materials, said Professor Atsushi Sakuda from Osaka Metropolitan University.

Also, compared to conventional methods, this process makes it easier to obtain materials that display higher performance, so we believe it will become a mainstream process for the future development of materials for all-solid-state sodium batteries.

The solid sulfide electrolyte has the worlds highest reported sodium ion conductivity  roughly 10 times higher than is required for commercial use.

Unlike the liquid electrolytes used in lithium-ion batteries, the solid electrolyte is not susceptible to bursting into flames when dropped or charged in the wrong way.

The breakthrough could prove most promising for the electric vehicle sector, offering superiour performance, reduced cost and enhanced sustainability.

They could also eliminate range anxiety by vastly improve the charging capacity of electric car batteries.

Japanese automaker Toyota claims solid-state batteries could offer a range of 1,200 km, which is more than twice the range of electric vehicles currently on the market. Charge times for these new batteries could be as short as 10 minutes.

The research was published in the scientific journal Energy Storage Materials, in a paper titled Utilising reactive polysulfides flux Na2Sx for the synthesis of sulfide solid electrolytes for all-solid-state sodium batteries.
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A British Airways flight attendant was removed from a 2,000-a-night Maldives hotel and ordered to fly home following a drunken row with staff and other guests.

The airline is investigating the incident which reportedly saw the member of staff screaming and screeching all night long with her two guests after enjoying their all-inclusive drinks package.

The Sun reported how a fight broke out when the trio were confronted about their behaviour and made aware of complaints made by other hotel guests.

There was a lot of pushing and shoving, then fists were flying. Onlookers got involved as they tried to break it up. It was the last straw for the hotel. BA was informed and the stewardess was ordered home, a source told The Sun.

The employee in question had arrived from Heathrow into the capital Male last week and was staying at the Oblu Xperience Ailafushi with several other crew members.

open image in gallery The stewardess was staying at the Oblu Xperience Ailafushi in the Maldives ( Oblu Xperience Ailafushi )

She was also reportedly staying with her daughter and a friend, who had used staff travel perks to take advantage of discounted prices.

Following the row, hotel staff then contacted the airline and threatened to remove the entire crew who were staying there from the hotel.

The stewardess then returned to Heathrow last Wednesday, with her daughter and friend flying back the next day.

A BA spokesperson told The Independent: We are investigating the matter.

British Airways rules make clear that employees are responsible for the behaviour of other passengers travelling under their name.

The dramatic events come as BA celebrated 50 years of flying on April 1. The carrier was created from British European Airways and intercontinental airline BOAC, plus two smaller operators: Cambrian Airways and Northeast Air.

Since then, it has grown to become one of the UKs most popular airlines and remains formidably profitable, retaining the majority of the slots at London Heathrow airport.
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In late July 2023, at the height of the tourist season in the Greek islands, wildfires swept across part of the isle of Rhodes  triggering the evacuation of at least 20,000 tourists.

Within days, the Greek prime minister promised people who had cut short their trips would be offered one week of free holidays on Rhodes next spring and next fall.

Details have finally emerged of how the scheme will work  and, as expected, some significant terms and conditions apply.

These are the details.

Remind me what happened?

Wildfires broke out in the mountainous centre of Rhodes in the second half of July 2023, and spread to the east coast resorts  aided by winds, very high temperatures and dry conditions.

Thousands of holidaymakers were forced to flee resorts on Saturday 22 July, with some British tourists describing terrifying scenes of turmoil as power cuts caused chaos on the island.

The islanders did all they could to help stranded tourists. Many overseas visitors were placed in emergency shelters set up in schools and other public buildings, and more than 20,000 tourists were flown home early on evacuation flights

Read more: Best Greek island hotels

What did the Greek prime minister say, exactly?

Soon afterwards Kyriakos Mitsotakis told British television viewers: The island is perfectly back to normal.

For all of those whose holidays were cut short as a result of the wildfires, the Greek government  in cooperation with the local authorities  will offer one week of free holidays on Rhodes next spring and next fall so that we make sure that they come back to the island and that they enjoy its natural beauty.

But since the prime minister made his promise, details have been sketchy. But now the Greek government has set up a website telling travellers about Rodos Week. This is not a specific seven days in the calendar, but an entitlement to a weeks worth of accommodation.

Who qualifies?

All adult individuals, regardless of nationality, who were staying in hotels evacuated during the wildfires on the island of Rhodes in July 2023 are entitled to a voucher for accommodation.

People who ended holidays early may already have been included in the Registry of Beneficiaries compiled by the tourism authorities in Rhodes. If not they can apply for inclusion. The claim will be checked against hotel records.

What do they get  and how do they book a free holiday?

A voucher for a weeks stay in roughly the same standard of accommodation comparable to what they originally had.

For a 1, 2, or 3-star hotel, its 300 (256) for the entire stay  unless it was for a room with four beds or more, in which case it is 400 (341).

For 4 or 5-star hotels, its 400 (341)  or 500 for people who were staying in larger rooms.

These are awarded for each person on the original trip  so a couple will get two vouchers between them, worth a minimum of 600 (512).

Where and when can the voucher be used?

At one of the participating hotels offered on the redemption website. The stay can be up to 31 May 2024 and from 1 October to 15 November 2024.

They will not necessarily be accepted for any date  for example, many hotels are likely to be full during half-term week. But the Rhodes Hotels Association guarantees all requests should be honoured by the end of the second phase.

What about flights?

They are not included  and neither are transfers from the airport to the hotel and travel insurance.

Research by The Independent shows typical fares from Manchester to Rhodes in May on easyJet at around 300 return, while British Airways flights from London Heathrow to the island and back in October are in the range 300-400 return  which includes 46kg of cabin baggage.

If I cant go for a full week, can I make it a long weekend?

No, you must stay for a minimum of six consecutive nights.

Neither can you offer the voucher to someone else.

What stays in an Airbnb or similar rental accommodation?

They are not covered; the scheme applies only to registered hotel guests.

Is the island fully open for tourism?

Yes. I went to Rhodes in late October to see how the island was recovering. In some areas on the east coast there were small pockets of significant damage, and inland, it was clear that wildfires have raged.

But the scene was not at all post-Apocalyptic  and for the vast majority of holidaymakers to Rhodes there will be no difference from a holiday they could have enjoyed before . You can expect to be as warmly welcomed as ever.

Has any other destination done something like this?

Not that Im aware of. At the end of the Covid pandemic, some countries offered vouchers to citizens for holidays  a kind of get out to help out scheme. But in the aftermath of a natural disaster it is unprecedented.

Greece is heavily dependent on tourism, and the prime minister was keen to get ahead of the problem  and persuade holidaymakers that they would be able to return without a care.
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Whether your holiday checklist includes a luxury spa, top class sporting facilities or an exhilirating water park, your dream detination could soon be closer than you might imagine  it could even be in Wales.

Plans are well underway to build a 300 million holiday resort in Merthyr Tydfil, creating new jobs for local workers as well as outstanding facilities for holidaymakers in need of rest and relaxation.

New CGI images of the Rhydycar West development show that if planning application is successful, it would also boast the UKs largest and longest indoor snow centre at 400m, an indoor and outdoor adventure centre, and woodland lodges.

There would also be a resort hotel complete with sport, family and luxury spa wings as well as conferencing facilities, plus a water park with with slides, tubes, a lazy river, a standing wave and surf simulators.

Located 23 miles North of Cardiff or around a 40 minute-drive and 169 miles from London, the site is easily accessible by car from most cities, cutting the cost of air travel and the damage to the planet caused by aeroplane emissions.

The Brecon Beacons national park is only 10 minutes away by car, should people wish to explore local areas of natural beauty once theyve finished getting spa treatments or enjoying the water park or ski facilities.

The plans, which were originally submitted to the council in March 2023, are still stuck in the planning phase but developers hope that more progress will be made soon,

A spokesperson said: We have been and continue to work closely with Merthyr Tydfil Council and other stakeholders in connection with the planning application. Over the past months, this has involved responding to requests for additional information and preparing further reports and surveys which has encompassed ongoing collaboration with the Council and National stakeholders. We have prepared and provided various additional documentation. Further work is in progress and nearing completion. Our planning application has been extremely robust and were encouraged by the responses received from statutory consultees.

Our team is aware of the considerable anticipation and excitement surrounding the Rhydycar West project, a sentiment we wholeheartedly share. We are also very much looking forward to concluding the planning process as soon as possible.

Read more: Best hotels in Wales
King Charles III hopes to be a "peacemaker" between Prince William and Prince Harry, a palace source has told Sky News Australia.

Grant Harrold, a former butler who worked with the monarch when he was the Prince of Wales, told the outlet it was "very likely" the princes would reconnect this year.

It comes as the Duke of Sussex is scheduled to return to London in May for a St Paul's Cathedral service marking the tenth anniversary of the Invictus Games.

"The King will want the brothers to patch things up so its more than likely that he could play peacemaker, Mr Harrold added.
An "unruly" passenger forced a flight from Manchester to Turkey to divert to Serbia on Tuesday, 10 April, an airline said.

Police stormed a SunExpress plane bound for Dalaman after it landed in Belgrade, more than 700 miles away, the Manchester Evening News reported.

Footage captures the moment the passenger was apparently dragged off the plane before he was arrested.

[Flight XQ505] continued to Dalaman after the passenger's disembarkation. The safety and security of our passengers and crew is of the highest priority," a SunExpress spokesperson said.
A former subpostmistress who was wrongly jailed while pregnant has recalled fainting as he sentence was passed down.

Seema Misra ran a post office in West Byfleet, Surrey, but was suspended in 2008 after being accused of stealing 74,000.

She was handed a 15-month prison sentence on her sons 10th birthday in November 2010 and was eight weeks pregnant when jailed.

Ms Misras conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal in 2021.

When the Judge said imprisonment, I lost it. When I opened my eyes, I was in the hospital because I fainted, she told Good Morning Britain on Friday 12 April, recalling her ordeal.

Ms Misra added that the apology made by a former Post Office boss at the Horizon IT inquiry is not good enough.
A statue of murdered MP Sir David Amess has been unveiled on Southend seafront in a ceremony attended by his family, politicians and projects that he championed.

The 69-year-old father of five was stabbed to death while meeting constituents at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, on 15 October 2021.

Sir Davids killer, Ali Harbi Ali, was found guilty of murder and handed a whole-life prison term at the Old Bailey in 2022.

A life-size statue of the former Southend West MP, positioned on a grass bank by Chalkwell Esplanade looking out over the estuary, was unveiled on Thursday 11 April.
Australian firm agreed to buy Irish group in 2019

Valerie and Noel Moran pictured at their house in Navan, Co Meath. Photo: Barry Cronin

Embattled Australian payment group EML Payments has agreed to pay 15m (17.5m) to the sellers of Prepaid Financial Services Group (PFS) to settle all outstanding liabilities associated with the soured 2020 deal to buy the business.

Prepaid Financial Services was founded by Noel and Valerie Moran, who are based in Navan, Co Meath. Their fortune has allowed them to indulge in their love of horse racing, buying a string of horses including runners at Cheltenham.

The sale of their business to EML was first announced in late 2019 and valued the Irish company at about 265m.

However, the following April, EML negotiated a 30pc cut in the price. The Morans owned just over 80pc of the Irish company, so even a reduced deal that came with earn-out conditions catapulted them to multi-millionaire status.

But in early 2021, the Central Bank of Ireland raised concerns in relation to the Irish firms anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing, risk and control frameworks and governance.

That news led to shares in EML falling close to 50pc after a two-day trading halt.

Early last year, EML said the Central Bank had written to it stating PFS had made limited remediation progress to date with significant and ongoing deficiencies remaining. These related to its anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism framework.

The Central Bank said it was not satisfied with PFSs remediation plan and timetable for completion.

Liquidators were appointed to PFS Card Services Ireland Ltd this January.

Its not insolvent, but the High Court was told that its business model was no longer commercially viable or sustainable and the firm would otherwise fail in coming months.

PFS Card Services Ireland Ltd is part of the wider PFS business.

The acquisition of PFS Group in 2020 included deferred consideration in the form of loan notes of 20m in total plus interest, payable in two instalments on June 30 this year, and June 30, 2025.

At full term, EMLs liability for the loan notes would have a value of 22.9m, inclusive of accrued interest, with the first tranche payment of 11.25m due in about three months time.

EML has agreed with the PFS vendors to settle the entire loan note liability for 15m, representing a discount of 7.9m, EML told investors yesterday.

It added: Settlement of the loan notes concludes all outstanding matters between EML and the PFS vendors including, but not limited to, acquisition earnout arrangements for which nil will be paid.

The settlement amount will be paid by the end of July this year and funded from EMLs cash balance.

Settlement of all outstanding actual or potential liabilities from EMLs PFS Group acquisition structure is another important milestone in the delivery of the EML Groups strategic review, noted the Australian firm.

By reducing the loan note liability and negating all other potential liabilities arising from the PFS Group acquisition structure, inclusive of potential earnout disputes, EML will strengthen its balance sheet and further de-risk the business, it said.

EML Payments is a global payments company that operates in Australia, the UK, Europe, and the US. Its customers are diverse and include major banks in Europe, government, retail brands and financial services companies.
US bill cites links of CEO of WuXi Biologics  which has a major facility in Dundalk, Co Louth  to Chinas military

Former taoiseach Leo Varadkar and WuXi Biologics Chris Chen (second from left) in 2018

A bill in the United States that would prohibit US companies receiving federal grant aid from working with four Chinese biologics firms has highlighted the previous link between the CEO of WuXi Biologics  which has a major manufacturing base in Ireland  to the Chinese army.

However, the bill  which would be known as the Biosecure Act when enacted  has not named the IDA-backed WuXi Biologics as a national security threat to the US.

The bill notes that the Chinese government wants to dominate biotechnology as an industry of the future.

The Financial Times reported yesterday that Western clients of Chinese firms including WuXi Biologics  such as pharmaceutical giants Eli Lilly and Vertex Pharmaceuticals  have begun talks with rival contract biologics manufacturers in order to diversify production away from Chinese companies that could be hit by the US legislation.

The proposed legislation would prohibit any head of a US executive agency from procuring or obtaining any biotechnology equipment or service produced by biotechnology companies of concern.

It would also prohibit loan and grant funds being used to procure or obtain such products or services from those biotech firms.

WuXi Biologics, whose shares are listed in Hong Kong, has a major manufacturing facility outside Dundalk, Co Louth.

It announced in 2018 that it would spend 325m to build a major biologics drug substance manufacturing facility at a site there. It is one of the largest contract manufacturing sites for single-use biologics in the world. It was also the companys first site outside China.

In 2019, WuXi Vaccines said it would spend $240m to build a facility at the Dundalk site. The group now employs 800 people at the Dundalk campus.

WuXi Biologics CEO is Chris Chen. He has a PhD from the University of Delaware and has previously worked for drug giants including Eli Lilly and Merck.

Chris Chen, CEO of WuXi Biologics, was previously an adjunct professor at the PLAs [People Liberation Army] Academy of Military Medical Sciences, notes a draft of the proposed Biosecure Act.

The company was asked for comment.

The proposed Act names WuXi AppTec, whose shares are listed in Shanghai and Hong Kong, as being a national security threat to the US.

The company provides a suite of R&D and manufacturing services to pharmaceutical firms. The US bill lists a number of connections WuXi Apptec allegedly has to the Chinese military.

Wuxi AppTec has previously denied any ties to Chinas military and said its business does not pose national security risks to any country. Shares in both WuXi AppTec and WuXi Biologics have slumped in the past number of months as investors fret about the possible consequences of the Biosecure Act.

Wuxi AppTec plunged 21pc on one day in February, hitting its lowest since August 2019, and Wuxi Biologics lost 21pc the same day, dropping to a five-year low. The shares have continued to fall. WuXi Biologics stock is now trading 72pc lower than a year ago.

WuXi AppTec shares are 60pc lower than a year ago.
Fraudsters are becoming more active.

Bank of Ireland has written to more than one million personal and business customers this week to warn them of the risks of investment fraud.

The warning comes as research it commissioned has revealed that Irish consumers are being targeted by scammers with increasing regularity.

The Red C survey found that 94pc of the population say they have received a fraudulent text, email or phone call in the last 12 months.

Investment fraud is on the rise with 77pc growth nationally in cases reported last year.

The bank has been the victim of a growing number of false articles appearing online designed to defraud consumers through fake financial products, investments or cryptocurrency schemes.

The articles appear like news articles from genuine media outlets, but are false advertisements that fraudsters are paying for online.

The advertisements feature fabricated news stories with claims about specific cryptocurrency trading platforms or designed to entice readers to websites where they can then be defrauded.

Bank of Ireland warned that more people are being caught out every day with some losing all of their life savings.

According to the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau, reports received by Gardai from victims of fraudulent texts increased by over 30pc in 2023.

Criminals impersonate legitimate investment companies by copying their websites and brochures.

These fake websites offering shares, bonds and cryptocurrencies look professional and their advisors can seem genuine.

Bank of Ireland has issued advice to its customers to warn of the red flags associated with investment fraud, and the steps that people can take to safeguard their finances against fraud attempts.

The bank said red flags that a consumer is being targeted as part of an investment fraud include people being called after clicking on an ad for an investment product on social media or in a sponsored search result.

There is a promise a quick and profitable return, with little or no risk.

The callers advise the consumer that they must act quickly to take advantage of an opportunity of a lifetime.

People getting the calls are told to make an urgent payment to get in on the deal.

Another red flag is an instruction from the caller that the consumer is not to discuss the investment with family, friends or their bank.

People may be instructed to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), Bank of Ireland said.
Ryanair has claimed in the High Court that a search of its premises by officials from competition authorities in Ireland and Italy, accompanied by gardai, was conducted with an invalid warrant.

The airline is asking the court to quash the warrant, issued by the Dublin Metropolitan District Court last March 8, on grounds that the issuing judge was wrongly not informed about two key Italian rulings that it says supports its position that it is not abusing its dominant market position.

It alleges the Italian competition authority, Autorita Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM), and its Irish counterpart, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), breached its fundamental rights by failing to tell the District Court judge about relevant information and by acting on a warrant that contained errors.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th

The court should declare that the material seized is, either in whole or in part, tainted by illegality and is inadmissible and should not have been removed from Ireland, Ryanair says.

Some 30 officers of both authorities and gardai conducted an unannounced inspection of Ryanairs premises in Swords, north Dublin, on March 8.

The CCPC said the search was conducted on behalf of the AGCM. The Italian authority announced in September 2023 that it had opened an investigation into Ryanair for possible abuse of a dominant (market) position.

In an affidavit, Ryanairs head of competition, Eoin Kealy, said the company has cooperated with the AGCM throughout its investigation, which arose out of claims from two Italian travel agency associations and a consumer association.

The allege Ryanairs model of direct online sale of its tickets to consumers constitutes an abuse of a dominant position under Italian and EU law, he said. Ryanair precludes travel agencies from purchasing tickets via its website, where the lowest fares are available, and directs them instead to a global distribution system, he said.

The Italian associations allege this policy jeopardises the performance of effective competition in the tourism services market to the detriment of travel agencies, leading to negative effects for their consumers, he said.

Ryanair entirely rejects those allegations and is supported in its position by two decisions of the Court of Appeal of Milan in cases against the airline, Mr Kealy said. That court last January found Ryanairs conduct in reserving the online sale of tickets to itself did not constitute abuse of position, and this should have been flagged to the judge who issued the warrant, he added.

On Friday, Ryanairs barrister, Martin Hayden, told the court the documents should not have been seized under this warrant and should not have been removed from the jurisdiction despite concerns raised by his client.

Ryanair also claims many of the seized documents are confidential, irrelevant, commercially sensitive or covered by legal professional privilege, he said.

Mr Hayden was glad some sense has taken hold, in that the ACGM has now agreed not to look at the seized documents until the court decides on its challenge to the warrant, which is due to be argued in court next May 10.

Eoin McCullough SC said his client, the AGCM, would give a temporary undertaking to the court not to look at any of the documents.

He said the Italian agency will decide by next Wednesday whether it will challenge the Irish courts jurisdiction to hear Ryanairs case.

Senior counsel for the CCPC, Nessa Cahill, said she does not accept any of the facts as presented by Ryanair.

She told Mr Justice Max Barrett that the airline was represented by its solicitors, Arthur Cox, during the search and any assertion of privilege made regarding the documents was respected by competition officers.

She said the parties have agreed to ask former chief justice Frank Clarke to examine the files and consider which are covered by Ryanairs claim of professional privilege.

More than 200 documents were seized, which is a relatively small number, she added. The CCPC does not accept there is any limitation on its power to seize documents that may be irrelevant to the investigation, she added.

Ryanair, via its companies Ryanair DAC and Ryanair Holdings PLC, is asking the court to quash the warrant and to make an order restraining the authorities from reviewing any of the material seized, which should be returned to Ireland.

It also contends it is entitled to damages, including for breach of duty and breach of Ryanairs constitutional right to a fair trial and privacy. .
Irish turnkey data centre builder understood to be valued at 800m

Private equity giant Blackstone is has confirmed an agreement to buy a 50.7pc stake in Irish data centre developer Winthrop Technologies.

The deal is understood to value the business at around 800m. Winthrop was founded in the 1990s by UCD trained engineer Barry English.

The Irish firms management will remain in situ following the investment and it will continue to trade under its own name.

The remainder of the shares not being bought by Blackstone will be held between the existing shareholders; founder, Barry English; Group CEO, Anne Dooley; and Managing Director, Bernard Keane.

Blackstone is best known on Ireland for buying businesses including Eir and the former Burlington Hotel at knock down prices after the global financial crisis. Such distressed investing is only one part of its business and a Winthrop deal would help build scale in a market where it paid $10bn three years ago for QTS, another data centre business.

Winthrop Technologies was founded by UCD trained engineer Barry English, who remained a director and advisor as well as majority shareholder in the business ahead of the sale.

He worked with the Tipperary based global engineering business MF Kents in the late 1980s mostly abroad before returning to Ireland established Winthrop in 1995.

The business in recent years it has shifted to specialise fully in construction of data centres across Europe, producing so called turn-key projects for multinational clients, and was previously involved in projects in areas like life sciences and pharmaceutics.

Winthrop operates across nine Europe countries and last year commenced operations in Belgium. The business employs around 750 people and has been in expansion mode, announcing hundreds of new roles last year.

Winthrop's most recently filed financial accounts show pre-tax profits of 86.17m. Revenues topped 1bn for the first time in the 12 months to April 2023.

In a statement confirming the deal the companies said the partnership will accelerate Winthrop Technologies growth trajectory, allowing it to capitalise on the ongoing demand for data centres, the critical infrastructure behind the digital economy.

"The exponential growth in data driven by the AI revolution and increasing cloud adoption are two major trends powering this explosive growth, it said.

Winthrop sale could lift Barry Englishs personal fortune to more than 500m

Anne Dooley, Winthrop Technologies Group CEO, said: "The partnership with Blackstone marks a new era of growth for Winthrop Technologies. This is an investment in the companys leadership, and our team at all levels, who have achieved our strong current market position and will continue to drive Winthrop Technologies into its next phase. Together with Managing Director Bernard Keane, and our senior management team, we look forward to working with the Blackstone team to showcase our best-in-class delivery.
Its early 2023 and, in a film studio in west London, the production crew on Back to Black are attempting to recreate a pivotal moment in the career of Amy Winehouse: the singers chaotic appearance on the Pyramid Stage at the 2008 Glastonbury Festival. Shes riding high from the long-tail success of her second album, 2006s Back to Black, but up there on the main stage, shes wobbly and wobbling, slugging booze as she shouts to the audience about her fella, Blake, currently incarcerated at Her Majestys Pleasure.

Its a crucial moment in both Winehouses career and the film, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, about the 27-year-old who died an untimely and horrible death from alcohol poisoning in 2011, after a period of sobriety. So for Polly Morgan, the director of photography, the decision to shoot the worlds biggest festival inside the historic but small Ealing Studios was initially baffling. Not least because Back to Black was going to great pains to faithfully recreate other moments from Winehouses life and times. Her first meeting with future husband Blake Fielder-Civil in Camden pub The Good Mixer and a pair of key Winehouse gigs round the corner in another north London boozer, The Dublin Castle  all were being shot in situ. By Taylor-Johnsons later reckoning, We shot in 56 locations in fortysomething days. I mean, we moved. We hotfooted our way around Camden.
Alan Gilsenan on his documentary The Days of Trees, in which film producer Tomas Hardiman discusses his suppressed memories of abuse

During the latter stages of the pandemic, film-maker Alan Gilsenan, sound recordist Bob Brennan and producer Tomas Hardiman travelled to Glenstal Abbey in Co Limerick to make a very unusual kind of film. I sometimes wonder, Gilsenan tells me, is it really a film at all! It was all so intimate, and you had the sense of being involved in this ongoing and very intense conversation, like therapy nearly, so that at times the film itself felt almost incidental.

In The Days of Trees, those conversations slowly circle the elephant in the room  the fact that Hardiman was dealing with the recent realisation that he had been sexually abused by a Christian Brother as a child. He had reached that conclusion in an extraordinary fashion, and while you would expect anger to be his dominant emotion, he instead was on the hunt for closure, and inner peace.

Ive known Tomas for a long time, Gilsenan says. When we first met, he was the press officer in the Abbey Theatre, and I was directing a play there. Tomas was a good friend and neighbour of Tom Murphy, and I was directing one of Toms plays. 

Tomas was a very different person then  we were both young, and he was a bit of a wild man in the best sense. Over the years, he persuaded me to make a film about Tom Murphy, but also then later about Ivor Browne, another mutual friend. This film emerged from the Ivor film, really, because it was while we were making Meetings with Ivor that Tomas began to see Ivor in a professional capacity.

During those sessions with the great psychiatrist, who died earlier this year, Tomas was nudged towards investigating a creeping anxiety that had dogged him since youth. In diaries written when he was a young teenager in Tuam, Tomas had described strange dreams that seemed to involve some sort of traumatic event. With Brownes help, he resurrected a long-suppressed memory of having been sexually assaulted and abused by a Christian Brother. In doing so, he would now have to learn how to openly deal with it.

Film-maker Alan Gilsenan:Memory plays curious tricks. Photo: Getty

It was odd, Gilsenan says, that the place Tomas chose for our trip was actually a religious institution. And it was a very intense thing, because there were just the three of us  myself, Bob Brennan and Tomas  and I mean, we werent quite living together, but it almost felt like it. It was very intense and sometimes I felt, in those interviews, many of which happened at night, that I would almost slip into the place of the accuser, or a barrister.

We were obviously there to make a film but there was an element of a retreat to it as well. There was something beautiful in the music and the prayers and the discipline of that  not even a religious thing necessarily, but we just found that by getting up early, attending matins, it just brought you into an inner place where you could talk about these things. And I have to say the monks in Glenstal, they knew what we were doing, they didnt ask questions, they didnt get involved, but they were hugely supportive.

The Days of Trees is shot in black and white, apart from a few tantalising glimpses of home movies from Tomass childhood. He was one of seven children, from a cultural and musical family, grew up in Church View, Tuam and attended the local Christian Brothers school. It was there that he was groomed and abused by a charismatic young brother.

His descriptions of the Christian Brothers and their swishing soutanes are compelling, and in the film he recalls the moment when the young brother first arrived and came to meet the class. While he was passing between the desks, young Tomas innocently piped up Whats your name?, and would later wonder if he had, in that moment, fatally attracted the abusers attention.

He describes bluntly the abuse itself, and yet viewers might be perplexed as to how he managed to suppress these horrible scenarios for so much of his adult life.

Memory plays curious tricks, Gilsenan says, and the film is partly about that  is what we remember true, and how do we suppress memories? Theres always a suspicion when people say, I suppressed that memory but its come back to me now. But I think in this case, its absolutely true.

One of the side effects of abuse, particularly child sexual abuse, is that you dont trust anything in yourself, and I think that becomes part of the abuse because it removes your sense of self, and your inner conviction. So I was aware that because we knew each other, because we were friends, that I, as the representative of the audience, would have to be tough and ask hard questions. And I quite like the fact that, once or twice in the film, hes almost annoyed with me.

As a young man, Hardiman never discussed any of this with anyone. After studying business at Galway, he headed to Canada to become a theatre manager, returned to Dublin to land a dream job at the Abbey, then moved west to manage the Galway Arts Centre, got married and had a child. But all the while there was a dark shadow that would catch up with him.

It was those sessions with Browne that lifted the lid on buried trauma, and in The Days of Trees, he continues his journey by speaking publicly for the first time about what happened.

What was interesting for me was that Tomas seemed to gain in strength as we filmed, Gilsenan says. The first day we started the interview, I asked him about his family and he started to cry, and I was thinking, Jesus, were never gonna get through this, were only an hour in!. But in fact, he seemed to grow: over the week, it was almost like he gathered his own strength and clarity in a way we hadnt seen before.

Outside, meanwhile, a storm was gathering over Limerick. We were talking late into the night, and this storm was blowing up outside, and eventually, just as I felt we were getting closer and closer to actually talking in detail about the abuse, there was a power cut. I didnt want to stop filming because we were kind of on a roll, so I lit a candle and we carried on.

More than the sadness of it all, the thing that strikes you as you watch is Hardimans humanity and dignity.

Hes a remarkably open person, perhaps because of his experience and how hes worked through it, and sometimes I would almost feel I had to protect him from himself, Gilsenan says. But there are very few people who are so willing to engage with the truth of their life, which he does so honestly, and every time I watch it, Im always taken aback at how frank he is, how totally committed.

Although Hardiman and Gilsenan embark on a quixotic trip at the end of the film to the town where his abuser lives, Tomas is adamant that he will not reveal the persons identity, nor confront him.

Youd get angry on his behalf, and you really would feel like, lets drive to the local garda station and put this on the record, and I think what is unusual about Tomas is that he didnt want to do that, and that his engagement with it is more profound. I mean, anybody is entitled to justice, but it was very interesting that thats not what he wanted. He wanted to find some peace, some resolution, and even that wasnt given him.

Search for peace: Tomas Hardiman seemed to gain in strength as we filmed

In 2016, Hardiman wrote courteous, conciliatory letters to the superior general of the Christian Brothers, and to his abuser, but received no reply.

He would say that, for him, the legal process, and the process that various religious associations have embarked on with hundreds of people under a guise of reconciliation, that that in a way repeats the abuse, because as soon as you make an accusation, the law has to start accusing you. And this process in Ireland doesnt happen quickly, so people go through having come out and made the accusation, then spend years and years being tortured by inquisition. Tomas didnt want any of that.

Did making the film help him heal?

I think so, yes. There is something in having your story heard, and heard fully, that I think is healing. Tomas genuinely felt that there was some huge weight lifted, and I think now that the film is coming out, thatll happen even more. Because this is a story, a weight, a shame even, that hes had to carry, and he definitely feels liberated by that.

I remember Ivor Browne saying to him once, not long ago, not long before he died, Thats great now, youve told your story, now get on with your life. I think thats true. Sometimes we have to own all the things that happened to us, good and bad, and move on and then live. Abuse imprisons you, and by owning and articulating that somehow, you can kind of liberate yourself from those chains.
New book All You Need is Love digs deep into the petty squabbles of the Fab Fours circle

The Beatles with their manager, Brian Epstein, arriving in London where they were welcomed by a crowd of fans. Photo: Bettmann Archive

All You Need is Love is a strange title for a book about the petty resentments and soul-sapping feuds behind the collapse of what Ringo Starr describes here as the best band that ever was. But it isnt solely about The Beatles end.

Instead, its an oral history, repurposed from interviews conducted by Peter Brown, an aide to Beatles manager Brian Epstein, then an executive at the groups company Apple, and US writer Steven Gaines.

Most of the interviews  with the group (minus John Lennon), their wives and their associates  were carried out just months before Lennons murder in December 1980, and used extensively in the 1983 biography The Love You Make, also by Brown and Gaines, which was deemed so salacious that Beatles fans branded it The Muck You Rake.

Linda McCartney threw her copy on the fire and filmed it burning.

Brown had been part of The Beatles inner circle. Hes even name-checked in the bands 1969 hit, The Ballad of John and Yoko: Peter Brown called to say / You can make it OK. He could, then, have written an interesting memoir. Instead, Gaines fleshed Browns memories into a full biography, dishing the dirt not just on scenes that he witnessed  Beatlemania, Epsteins decline, the chaos of Apple  but on events that he couldnt have, such as the groups childhoods.

The more dubious claims of Brown and Gaines in 1983  that Lennon and Epstein had a sexual relationship in 1963, or that Starrs drumming was replaced in the studio by Paul McCartney  are not, it turns out, supported by these interviews. And yet, like the earlier book, this one is riddled with inaccuracies.

No one here is a reliable witness. They frequently contradict each other. McCartney, speaking just 10 years after the 1960s, says that his recollections are hazy. The Beatles music, meanwhile, is barely mentioned.

Nonetheless, for all its flaws, All You Need is Love is a fascinating snapshot of the tensions still festering between the Fab Four in 1980. George Harrison describes Lennon as a piece of shit hes so negative about everything Hes become so nasty.

McCartney, who these days suggests that he and his estranged songwriting partner were reconciled before the latters murder, says here of Lennon and Yoko Ono: If I lie down and do everything they say then we can be friends. But if I have an opinion that differs from theirs, then Im an enemy.

One early crisis point was the bands decision to pull the plug on Beatlemania by ceasing to tour. Road manager Neil Aspinall says the group didnt know in 1966 that the concert at Candlestick Park, San Francisco, would be their last: Nothing they ever did was pre-planned.

That added to the anxieties of Epstein, who died of a drug overdose in 1967. Brown was the last to speak to him. Queenie Epstein, Brians mother, says she will never know if her beloved son took his own life.

Disharmony among the group was stoked by Ono and Linda Eastman (as she would be until 1969). They polarised The Beatles, according to Harrisons then-wife, Pattie Boyd, because they were strong women.

Art dealer Robert Fraser recalls that the animosity [between John and Paul] was entirely created by Yoko, whom he describes as a very dominating, relatively unattractive utterly charmless person who was always telling John that he should be on his own. Ono, for her part, revels in her role as disruptor, claiming that she attended a Beatles business meeting, which was made up of Jewish businessmen, dressed as an Arab. They hated me anyway, she says. But yeah, that made it worse. Funny.

Yet even Cynthia Lennon, whom John left for Ono, says its very hard to put the blame on the latter for the bands break-up. Besides, if Alexis Magic Alex Mardas, a self-styled inventor employed by Apple to build whimsical creations such as a singing typewriter and an artificial sun that lit up the night sky, is to be believed  though Brown argues that he isnt  the other Beatles disliked Linda even more than they disliked Yoko. Klein claims that Linda screamed at him in a recording studio.

The rivalries intensified in the 1970s. Maureen Starkey, Starrs first wife, describes her horror at Harrison declaring that he loved her. Pattie was there, too, she says. George picked up a guitar and started to sing a song He just turned to Rich [Ringo Starr] and said, Im in love with your wife. I was totally stunned It was a very difficult time. (Alas, Brown and Gaines dont appear to have questioned Harrison about this.)

The Beatles themselves are sanguine about the split. Starr says hes pleased they broke up. It was time, he says. Things only last so long.

Its put to him that The Rolling Stones are still going, to which he replies: Yeah, but theyre old men. This was, remember, in 1980; Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were in their late 30s. Or as Harrison puts it: We became trapped, and thats why it had to end. ( Telegraph Media Group Ltd 2024)

All You Need is Love is published by Octopus at 29
Albums of the week: Only God Was Above Us by Vampire Weekend and A La Sala by Khruangbin

On paper, Only God Was Above Us is the first Vampire Weekend album in five years, but its predecessor, Father of the Bride, was really a solo project from frontman Ezra Koenig. Instead, this fifth album to bear the VW moniker is best described as the first proper band affair since their third effort, the underrated Modern Vampires of the City from 2013.

If his last outing was in part inspired by his adopted home of Los Angeles, this one is very much Koenigs love letter to his native New York. But it feels like a band album proper and a lean collection running to 47 minutes that embrace a dizzying collection of styles, genres and influences. Lesser bands would suffer from this everything but the kitchen sink approach, not Vampire Weekend. What has been clear since they first emerged in the late 2000s, this is a group who take all manner of world music influences and make them their own.

That said, the Afrobeat that characterised the bands early sound has largely been supplanted by hip-hop elements and the sort of indie that was commonplace when the band released their debut album. A handful of tracks sound remarkably like the Strokes, including Gen-X Cops. But theres plenty of surprises too  Mary Boone, which is named after a disgraced New York art dealer who dubbed herself the Martha Stewart of the art world, is indebted to Indian raga.

As ever with Koenig, the lyrics are hyper literate and full of allusion. Hes a songwriter who abhors the prosaic and on the eight-minute closer, Hope, his wordsmith qualities are given free range with a sonic backdrop that is rarely less than delightful and doesnt outstay its welcome.

The latest album from Khruangbin doesnt outstay its welcome either. The Texan trio, whose band name is Thai for aeroplane, are sometimes dismissed as purveyors of background music. Granted, their genre-hopping instrumentals work well in such a context, but thats to ignore the beauty and innovation that characterises their sound.

This is a band who have been inspired by all manner of world music, with influences from Iranian rock to calypso to vintage psychedelia, and they meld the various styles and genres with considerable panache.

A La Sala  Spanish for in the room  is their fourth album and the most chilled to date. As before, a handful of songs have snatches of vocals, but theyre part of the rich sonic stew rather than foregrounded. Its not what theyre saying, its the mood evoked that has made Khruangbin such an appealing proposition and thats certainly the case on this gorgeously honed album.

There are echoes of other artists including Fleetwood Mac, circa Albatross, and Beach House when they first emerged, but Laura Lee  aka Leezy  and friends retain their own distinct soulful and atmospheric sound. Theres a steady tempo for most of the album, but here and there  not least on Pon Pon  they embrace the dance-floor.
Dublin woman who allowed home to be used to store drugs worth 200k spared jail

Sinead Byrne has six previous convictions, all for road traffic offences

Sinead Byrne

Eimear Dodd Fri 12 Apr 2024 at 09:29







A woman who allowed her home to be used to store a large amount of cannabis has been handed a fully suspended prison sentence.
A MAN charged with harassing a woman in Dublin over a four-year period has been granted bail.

Ramazani Anzuluni, 44, with an address at Santry Lodge, Ballymun, Dublin, was charged with harassment of the woman from January 1, 2018, until July 1, 2022, in Chapelizod.
Latest | Man who filmed himself sexually abusing infant boy and shared footage on social media jailed for four years

Judge Tom ODonnell described the crimes as depravity of the highest orderHe lifted reporting restrictions to allow the identification of accused Jamie Marshall (35)

Jamie Marshall

David Raleigh Fri 12 Apr 2024 at 14:30







A man who filmed himself sexually abusing an infant boy and then shared the footage on social media has been jailed for four years.
The chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council, Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri has announced he will run in the upcoming European elections in June.

Shaykh Al-Qadri will run in the Dublin constituency and said he is running to stand up against hatred, division and injustice.

As an immigrant who's called Ireland home for 21 years, I've been deeply inspired by the warmth and resilience of Dubliners, he said.

But recent events have shown me that our beloved city is at a crossroads. The rise of populism and divisive rhetoric threatens the very fabric of our society, he added.

Dr Al-Qadri said he has become frustrated at how unaffordable the city has become for families and that crime is making parts of Dublin unsafe.

The rise in crime has also made parts of Dublin unsafe for residents and visitors alike, Dr Al-Qadri.

It's time for change, and I'm here to fight for it. That's why I'm running - to stand up against hatred, division, and injustice, and to champion the issues that matter most to Dubliners, he added.

The elections which take place in June will see voters in Ireland head to the polls on June 7.

The Muslim clerics campaign will also focus on diversity and said he was committed to ensuring all voices were heard.

My campaign slogan, "Empower Dublin's Diversity in Europe," isn't just a slogan - it's a commitment. A commitment to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives that make Dublin the vibrant city it is, he said in a post on X.

Earlier this year, Gardai launched an investigation after Dr Al-Qadri said he experienced a deliberate hate crime attack in Tallaght.

Dr Al-Qadri was hospitalised as a result of what he said appeared to be a planned attack, as I met two Irish individuals who had arranged a meeting in Tallaght.

If elected, Dr Al-Qadri said he would be a voice for peace in the EU Parliament and said the EU had not implemented effective action to ensure peace in Gaza.

I will also be the voice for peace in the EU Parliament, advocating for the recognition of the Palestinian State.

It's disheartening to see the EU's lack of effective action in ensuring peace and upholding human rights for Palestinians, he said.
Dublin jewellery designer takes aim at cynical people after post about 7,500 lost ring went viral

Ms Sweetman said she shared the tale on social media in a very genuine attempt to reunite this engagement ring with its owner

Dublin jewellery designer takes aim at cynical people after post about 7,500 lost ring went viral

Ellen Coyne Fri 12 Apr 2024 at 03:30

A boutique Irish jewellery designer has put a new spin on the term engagement ring, after it used a tale about a lost sapphire to tell a viral story.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin speaks to the media ahead of the Fianna Fail ard fheis, at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre. Photo: PA

Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said there are "very significant differences" on policy between Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein, when asked about a possible future coalition.

The Fianna Fail leader accused Sinn Fein of being able to "flip flop, U-turn to an alarming degree", including on whether to call for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador.

He was speaking at the start of his partys 82nd ard fheis in Dublin, where he said that the focus would be on the cost of living, public services and conditions facing farmers.

He said SF was an anti-EU party and said "they don't get the European Union", accusing it of "antics" this week on the EU migration pact.

He said: "As far as I'm concerned, we can't go into government with Sinn Fein if it maintains policy positions like it's maintained on Europe."

He added: "I think we'll consult with the remainder of the party as well, and I'm very clear that policy has to be the bottom line."

Mr Martin also said that Fianna Fail TD Thomas Byrne was "ar mhuin na muice", or "on the pig's back", over his appointment as junior minister with responsibility for the Irish language.

"Thomas is very happy to be minister for the Gaeltacht and I think there was a sense, we discussed this, because Jack Chambers had been minister for the Gaeltacht in that department of culture and the arts, sport - there's a synergy there between the different issues," he said.

"Minister (for Culture Catherine) Martin was very happy to take it back into that department and Thomas is fluent, is very happy, I think that's very evident. He's very committed to the Irish language."

Mr Martin also pushed back on comments made by the Israeli ambassador that recognising Palestinian statehood would reward terrorism.

Israeli ambassador Dana Erlich was not invited to the Fianna Fail ard fheis this weekend, with Mr Martin stating the move was an effort to make it clear that the party is not satisfied with what is going on in Gaza.

Mr Martin rejected comments Ms Erlich made on Newstalks Pat Kenny Show, in which she said it was not the right time and questioned why Ireland would reward terrorism by granting recognition to Palestine.

Mr Martin said yesterday that many countries have recognised Palestinian statehood and it is an absurd and unacceptable assertion for Ms Erlich to have made.

"There was a time when Israel committed to a two-state solution, he said. I think under Benjamin Netanyahu what we witnessed from Israel were deliberate attempts to undermine the prospects of the two-state solution  failure to rein in settlers and settlements for example is evidence of that and it is just wrong to make that assertion."

Mr Martin said it would be very incorrect to say the Government has not condemned Hamas as an organisation, adding that he has very vociferously condemned the heinous crimes Hamas committed on October 7.

Given our own experience of 30 years of terror in Northern Ireland, the last thing Fianna Fail is doing is condoning or in any way rewarding terrorism. It is the last thing we would do.

He said the focus for Government now is on working with other states within and outside the EU that would collectively and in a coordinated way together recognise the Palestinian state.

"It is catastrophic what is happening to the children of Gaza and the civilians of Gaza and no human being could not but be moved by what is transpiring.

His comments came after the Taoiseach also rejected Ms Erlichs claim, entirely possible to both call for a ceasefire in Gaza while also condemning the actions of Hamas.

Simon Harris was speaking at Government Buildings after meeting with Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez where they discussed recognising Palestine as a state, which he said would happen when the time is right.

Mr Martin also said the Government was "running out of time" to explain a referendum on patents to the public in time for the local and European polling day on June 7, amid reports that the referendum will not be run.

"My view is that time is running short between now and the local elections. I've always had a view myself that referendums ideally should be held on their own, and not in the context of other elections," Mr Martin said.

"Others have different views, others felt that with local elections, European elections, you get a reasonable turnout to vote on a given referendum.

"The problem is getting the focus and time to focus on important issues. To amend the constitution is a very serious issue. And it needs proper time, proper preparation and an explanation to the public, in this case the Electoral Commission needs adequate time.

"So my view is we're running out of time in respect of the local elections and European on that date to hold the patent referendum.

"It's an important referendum in its own right, very important in terms of the industrial base of Ireland, life sciences, technology, and the research that underpins a lot of jobs in Ireland so we have to work on getting it done, and I think we need to do more work in terms of explaining to the public what is involved."
The Irish Prison Service has spent more than a year trying to draft a new policy on transgender prisoners, with the complexity of the issue being blamed for the delay.

In March last year, concerns were raised about placing a violent transgender woman in a female prison. At the time, then taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he believed violent prisoners who were born biologically male but identify as female should not be put into female prisons.

Simon Harris, who was acting justice minister at the time, said: There is no circumstance, regardless of gender, where anybody should be at risk of violence in a prison.

The Irish Prison Service is currently finalising a policy in relation to transgender prisoners. And this is a policy that will be informed by best international practice. Indeed, they are looking at a number of other jurisdictions in terms of how this issue has been approached. And I expect that to be concluded in the next few weeks.

But more than a year on, the policy is still not finalised. A spokesman for the Irish Prison Service said the delay was down to the complexity of the issue.

The Irish Prison Service is continuing its consultation with stakeholders towards developing a policy document for the management of transgender prisoners, the spokesman said.

This has included consideration of submissions received from interest groups, consultation with the Office of the Inspector of Prisons and international prison services and further consultation is ongoing.

In its annual report for 2021, the visiting committee for the Dochas Centre womens prison at Mountjoy said that during that year there had been a transgender woman in custody.

The report said that without a clear policy, the governor had to use a rule designed to protect vulnerable prisoners who could be at risk of harm from others, which involved extended periods of isolation and reduced access to education and recreation.

It said the governor felt that having transgender prisoners across Dochas, Limerick and the Midlands Prison will force the conversation nationally within the service.

The report stated: In our view, it is insufficient to wait for circumstances to force the conversation  the creation of a clear, fair and supportive transgender policy is urgent and essential.

The absence of a clear policy is a matter of concern if the prison aspires to be inclusive of all women in custody. We would strongly urge that this be dealt with as a matter of priority.

It is essential that relevant training and education be provided for prison staff to support the policy effectively and ensure the dignity and safety of any transgender women who come into custody.

The Prison Officers Association (POA) had also last year called for a formal policy on transgender prisons.

It is becoming a more common thing where we have transgender people coming into prison and it is our priority to keep our members safe, Tony Power of the POA said.

We are asking the prison service to come up with a policy on transgender prisoners.
The Israeli Ambassador to Ireland has said now was not the time to recognise the Palestinian state and that the recognition would not help the Palestinian people.

The comments come as Taoiseach Simon Harris is to meet with the Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez this afternoon where it is believed the recognition of the Palestinian state will be discussed. Both governments have indicated they will move towards the formal recognition of a Palestinian state.

We don't think this is the right time for such recognition. We ask why reward terrorism? Ms Dana Elrich told The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk.

This is giving a very dangerous signal to Hamas and other terror organisations, but also my question is, what are they going to recognise? Is it going to be a three state solution? Who will control Gaza?, she added.

Asked if Ms Elrich had received correspondence from the Irish government about what exactly they planned to recognise, the ambassador said they had not yet received confirmation of that.

They have not shared it yet. We are in ongoing conversations. It is part of our diplomatic open channels that we maintain, she said.

Ms Elrich said she had a number of questions including the timing of the recognition of the state.

My question is what will it look like and why now? We do not think that it will benefit the Palestinian people. Any enforced solution from a third party will not be helpful.

I know a lot of people here draw comparisons with the situation in Ireland. Just imagine if the international community would have enforced a solution on you, she added.

Right now, the situation during a war against a genocidal terror organisation that does not want co-existence, it does not want peace.

To mix this current war with a possible solution of a Palestinian state, this is not the time to do it, she said.

Over 33,000 people are believed to have died in Gaza since the outbreak of the conflict on October 7 last year, more than two-thirds of whom are civilians.

Ms Erlich claimed Israel is going above and beyond to ensure fewer civilians are hurt. Israel continues its war in Gaza despite the UN security council passing a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire during Ramadan. Resolution 2728 also calls for the immediate release of Israeli hostages in Gaza and for ensuring humanitarian access to Gaza.

When we talk about proportionality, that is another legal term that needs be revised. So we are using a legal term based on international law and the rules of war and we are abiding by the international law.

We know that Hamas in a very cynical way is embedded in its civilian population and we are doing above and beyond in order to make sure less and less civilians are hurt, she said.

Ms Elrich also rejected that there was a famine happening in Gaza and said there was no limit to the amount of aid going into the area.

There is no famine in Gaza. There is a certain crisis because of distribution and we need to be very clear with that. There is no limit to the amount of aid that goes in to Gaza. There is no limit to the amount of aid that can go in, she said.

Distribution of aid within Gaza, as well as getting aid into the besieged enclave, has been severely hindered by the widespread bombing by Israeli forces, and the killing of aid workers attempting to feed the displaced population.
Simon Harris insists he is adhering to security advice on use of popular app

Simon Harris celebrates his official announcement as Taoiseach earlier this week. Photo: Collins

Simon Harris says he is adhering to security advice on TikTok, even as world leaders have banned the platform from their phones.

The Fine Gael leader has experienced a surge in traffic on his TikTok account and other social media platforms since becoming Taoiseach this week.

But it is just less than a year since the Government announced that official devices in Ireland should not have TikTok on them because of concerns around cyber security.

Last month the issue of national security and TikTok was raised at an Oireachtas committee, after the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) claimed TikTok posed a serious threat to US national security.

Jeremy Godfrey, the executive chair of Coimisiun na Mean, Irelands media regulator, said: As to whether we see TikTok as a threat to national security, we are not a national security agency.

Our job is to protect the users of platforms from harmful and illegal content but not to deal with those national security issues.

The question arose at the Joint Committee on EU Affairs in relation to possible disinformation and manipulation of the European elections in June.

A spokesperson for Mr Harris said last night: The National Cyber Security Centre has given all ministers advice in relation to TikTok.

Minister Harris has adhered to that advice. As Taoiseach, he will follow any further advice on this matter.

In the past three weeks Mr Harris has secured 1.3 million post views on TikTok, along with 12,000 comments and an increase in followers of 5,600.

On Instagram he now has 180,000 followers, up about a fifth on recent times. Mr Harriss videos are now averaging 108,000 views, and on LinkedIn over the past week there was a sharp spike of 178pc in post impressions.

People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett said: I do think it is ironic that only a while ago the Irish Government was saying TikTok was a security risk because of Chinese state involvement, and now the Taoiseach is broadcasting on it from the Cabinet room.

There may be some paranoia about it, but I would be equally concerned about Instagram and Metas Facebook.

Mary Lou McDonald calls out Taoiseach Simon Harris for Dail no show

The video posted by Mr Harris was actually filmed in his office in Government Buildings, not the room where the Cabinet meets.

Ireland is the European headquarters of TikTok and the company will build one of the biggest data centres in Europe in Clondalkin. It will consume more energy and electricity in one day than the whole of the rest of Clondalkin in three months, said local TD Gino Kenny.

TikToks growth since coming to Ireland has been meteoric. At the start of 2022, TikTok had over 2,000 employees in Ireland, and the addition of another 1,000 that year underlined the companys investment in Ireland.

But the security question arose at the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs last month in relation to possible disinformation and manipulation of the European elections in June.

The British government has banned TikTok at Westminster and prime minister Rishi Sunak and other members of Cabinet do not have the app on their official phones.

The then-taoiseach Micheal Martin and then-tanaiste Leo Varadkar welcomed the companys recruitment in Ireland, however, meeting TikTok CEO Shouzi Chew and senior company leaders.

The two leaders were advised of TikToks strategy globally and Irelands role, being updated on TikToks growth in Ireland and future expansion plans.

Mr Varadkar went as far as to say: We dont take it for granted and will continue to work hard to make companies like TikTok feel welcome here.

TikToks owner ByteDance, which is heavily influenced by the regime in Beijing, has been faced with a battery of moves against it by US authorities.

Thats because Chinas controversial 2017 National Intelligence Law, also applying to Hong Kong, requires that all companies, organisations and citizens support, assist and co-operate with national intelligence efforts.

Washington-based think tank, the Centre for Strategic and International Studies says TikTok would have no right to appeal requests by the Chinese government for data.
Stephen Donnelly is not hung up on delay as he turns sod on Ronald McDonald House at site

The October 29 deadline for the completion of the long-delayed new 2.2bn national childrens hospital looks set to be pushed out to later in the year, it emerged yesterday.

However, an end is in sight as it is in its final stage of construction and the deadline is quarter four of this year, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said yesterday.

It is understood the contractors have asked for a completion date of December but this is being contested by the hospital development board.

Mr Donnelly said he expected to take full ownership of the hospital later this year and he is not going to get hung up about whether it is this week in October or this week in November.

We want and must get full control of this hospital. We can all see the full difference this hospital will make. This is transformative. Ireland will have one of the best childrens hospital services in the world. The contractor has given a commitment for the full handover of this hospital in the last quarter of the year and I fully expect that to be honoured.

He was speaking in front of the new hospital building in south inner city Dublin which has taken shape and promises a bright future for sick children. He said there are very active discussions going on between the hospitals development board and the contractor BAM on millions in additional claims, which are being challenged.

So far a very small percentage has been agreed by a mediation service, he added. Asked about accommodation for staff, he conceded housing costs can be very high.

The single most important answer is more housing and that is what we are focused on, he said.

Mr Donnelly also turned the sod on a new accommodation house for families whose child is being treated in the hospital. The new Ronald McDonald House will be located across from the main entrance to the new childrens hospital.

It will provide accommodation for 52 families every night who have children receiving treatment in the new childrens hospital.

As well as bedrooms that will accommodate families of all sizes, there will also be communal kitchen facilities where families can prepare meals, as well as shared common areas such as living rooms, playrooms, reading rooms, laundry facilities and outdoor spaces.

It will be connected to the new childrens hospital at basement level, providing direct access for families who are visiting their loved ones at any time of the day or night.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Ireland will operate the new facility when it opens. It has already operated the Ronald McDonald House at Crumlin Hospital for 20 years, during which time more than 5,000 families have availed of its services.

Currently 20 families are accommodated at any one time in the Ronald McDonald House at Crumlin. The new Ronald McDonald House will more than double the accommodation available for families, with its 52 bedrooms, and enhanced communal areas.

Clancy Construction has been appointed to design and build the new facility.

The minister was helped in turning the sod by seven-year-old Darragh OLoughlin, who is a patient in Crumlin and whose family have stayed at the existing Ronald McDonald House.

His mother, Rose Marie OLoughlin, said: Darragh was born in Wexford General Hospital and after only 24 hours it was clear he needed additional care and was transferred by ambulance to Crumlin. At two days old he had his first investigative cath lab procedure and was scheduled for open-heart surgery.

We were far from home, terrified and had not planned for this. We got a room in the Ronald McDonald House, and it is difficult to put into words what a difference this made for us. We had two other children at home and a room in the House meant we could all stay together, sit down to a meal together, play in the playroom and visit the hospital.

Darragh ended up in hospital for 19 weeks at that time and requires ongoing follow-up care. I cannot express the difference Ronald McDonald House makes to our family and thousands of families like us.

Dr Jim Browne, chair of the Childrens Health Ireland board said: We understand the importance of being able to stay close to your child when they are in hospital. That is why in the new childrens hospital every single inpatient bedroom will have a bed for a parent or guardian to stay in the room with their children over night.

This separate family accommodation unit across the plaza, will allow families to stay close to their loved one which is a tremendous support, especially for children who are staying in the hospital for long periods of time.
Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys said she listened to concerns and scrapped the proposals. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA.

The Government is scrapping its Green Paper on disability reform after significant backlash from campaigners.

There are significant concerns with the proposals set out in the plans, according to Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys.

The document, from the Ministers Department, proposed reforming the structure of long-term disability payments by establishing a three-tiered system.

Under the tiers, levels of disability payments would have been dictated by the nature and restrictions of the disability and the persons perceived ability to work.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th

Campaigners slammed the proposals as being Dickensian and called on the Government to scrap the Green Paper.

I launched the consultation process on the Green Paper last September. Based on the feedback I have received to date, it is clear that there are significant concerns about the proposals, said Minister Humphreys.

I have listened to these concerns and I am confirming today that the Green Paper proposals will not be implemented.

The Government needs to have a fresh look at how people with disabilities can be best supported, said the Fine Gael minister.

She said this can be done through a new Cabinet sub committee on disability, which was set up this week, shortly after Simon Harris became Taoiseach.

Our new Taoiseach, Simon Harris, has placed a major focus on improving supports for people with disabilities by giving a voice to special education at the Cabinet table in Minister [Hildegarde] Naughton and also with the establishment of a new special Cabinet Committee on Disability, said Ms Humphreys.

As a Government, we now need to have a fresh look at how we can best support people with disabilities and I believe this will be best done on a whole-of-Government basis through the new Cabinet Committee.

Independent Senator Tom Clonan has also criticised the Green Paper, saying the UK attempted to bring in a similar plan.

A similar plan was brought into disrepute in Britain. It led to a surge of suicides in the UK and in Northern Ireland, he told the Irish Independent previously.

Instead of helping, the Department of Social Protection wants to impose this Dickensian, Victorian system of classification of the deserving and undeserving poor.

The Department of Social Protection previously said the proposed reforms were not a cost cutting measure, saying nobody will be forced to work and that many people will see increases of over 45 in their weekly payments as a result.
Coroner Mr Justice Michael Humphreys said he was satisfied the use of force was "reasonable"

The use of lethal force by SAS soldiers in an ambush that killed three IRA men in Co Tyrone in 1991 was justified, a coroner has ruled.

Delivering his provisional findings in the Coagh inquest, coroner Mr Justice Michael Humphreys said he was satisfied the use of force was "reasonable" as the soldiers had an honest belief that it was necessary in order to prevent loss of life.

However, the coroner also concluded that the military operation was not planned in a manner which minimised to the greatest extent possible the need for recourse to lethal force.

The inquest into the deaths of Peter Ryan, Tony Doris and Lawrence McNally in Coagh, Co Tyrone, on June 3 1991, opened in 2022.

The three men were intercepted as they drove in a stolen car through Coagh by SAS soldiers, who suspected they intended to murder a member of the security forces.

All three were shot dead in a hail of gunfire.

The inquest was told that up to 150 rounds were fired.

Delivering his verdict in the legacy case, Mr Justice Humphreys said McNally died as a result of gunshot wounds to the head and heart, Doris as a result of gunshot wounds to the head and Ryan by a gunshot wound to the chest.

He also ruled that McNally and Ryan were shot by Soldier G, while Doris was shot and killed by Soldier B.

The coroner said the three men were members of the East Tyrone brigade of IRA and were on "active service" when they were shot.

He said the background to the case was a "surge of activity" in the area by the East Tyrone IRA.

Mr Justice Humpreys said: "This bloody recent history provides the backdrop to the events at Coagh."

Setting out the events, the coroner said that the security forces had received intelligence that the East Tyrone IRA intended to murder a former member of the UDR at a public car park in the village.

A specialist military unit was tasked to mount a "hard arrest" operation. This included a "reaction group" to effect the arrests and a "cover group" hidden in a modified flatbed truck to provide protection.

Relatives of the three men shot dead in Coagh and their solicitor Padraig O Muirigh(centre) outside Belfasts High Court on Thursday. Pic: Presseye

The coroner told the court that when the stolen car came to a halt at the car park entrance, the rear passenger door opened and a man wearing a balaclava armed with a rifle started to get out, pointing the weapon in the direction of Soldier L.

After an order was given, the side of the the lorry was lowered and a number of shots fired.

The man with the rifle fell back into the car, which travelled on and crashed into another car around 30 metres away. Several further shots were then fired.

Mr Justice Humphreys was highly critical of actions by soldiers to destroy a video of the events from a surveillance location.

He said: "There could scarcely have been more probative and significant evidence of the events which unfolded at Coagh than a video taken from close range showing the arrival of the vehicle and the engagement of the soldiers with its occupants.

"If this had been available, it would have rendered the task of the inquest on many of the issues straightforward.

"It would also, of course, have been of central importance to the RUC, whose role it was to assess whether any crime had been committed by the soldiers."

He said the soldiers who gave evidence to the inquest about the destruction of the video had "demonstrated a clear and unequivocal willingness to subvert the rule of law".

The coroner added: "Rather than condemning them, the response of senior officers in the British Army has been to excuse, justify and support such reprehensible conduct."

Turning to the original RUC investigation, Mr Justice Humphreys said police had failed to challenge accounts given by soldiers, had failed to interview the soldiers promptly after the shootings occurred and had failed to investigate the planning of the operation at all.

The coroner said it was unclear whether this was a result of direct orders from above or merely reflective of attitudes of the time.

He added: "It can only be concluded that the RUC investigation into the shootings was woefully inadequate.

"A decision was reached and relayed to the DPP on the basis of untested and unchallenged accounts of soldiers.

"Evidence at the scene was wantonly disregarded. No questions were asked of those who had formulated the plan and its methodology.

"Had it not been for the holding of this inquest, many of the facts around these events would simply never have been known."

The coroner said an issue of fact to be determined was whether any member of the IRA unit had fired on the soldiers, pointing out that several military witnesses believed they were involved in a gunfight.

He concluded, on the balance of probabilities, that no IRA member discharged his weapon.

Delivering his verdict, the coroner said: "In each case, the use of lethal force was justified as the soldiers had an honest belief that it was necessary in order to prevent loss of life.

"The use of force by the soldiers was, in the circumstances they believed them to be, reasonable.

"The operation was not planned and controlled in such a way as to minimise to the greatest extent possible the need for recourse to lethal force."

Speaking outside court, solicitor Padraig O Muirigh, who acts for the families of Peter Ryan and Tony Doris, said while they were disappointed at the finding that the force used was justified, they welcomed criticism of the army operation.

"The clients that I represent have always maintained there was a shoot-to-kill policy operating at this particular time. What these findings show is that a kill zone was effectively set up," he said.

"The planning of the operation was deliberate to avoid an arrest situation, and as the coroner said we had an inevitable outcome.

"What we see in the aftermath is a very clear cover-up of that shoot-to-kill policy, both in terms of how the British Army destroyed a crucial video which would have assisted this coroner and important documentation relevant to the inquest, and as he describes it, the woefully inadequate RUC investigation meant that the full facts would never be before this inquest so that cover-up was also a critical part, in my view, of this operation."
Taoiseach Simon Harris with the prime minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez at Government Buildings in Dublin. Photo Sam Boal/Collins Photos

Taoiseach Simon Harris has said it is entirely possible to both call for a ceasefire in Gaza while also condemning the actions of Hamas.
Locals fear for welfare of asylum-seekers living in isolated former pub where promised buses dont run and residents speak in whispers
New Fine Gael leader Simon Harris spoke to his party about his priorities for government. Photo: PA.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has said making progress for small businesses is among his highest priorities of his 11 months in office before a likely general election in March 2025.

Mr Harris, who formally took office on Tuesday, said having safer streets is also high on his agenda for the year ahead, along with housing and the challenges facing the farming industry.

[I have] set out a number of areas that I wanted to make real progress in between now and the next election in March and I wanted to put the best team in place to deliver those priorities.

"Im gonna need a bit of time to do that but Im determined to hit the ground running, Mr Harris told Keith Finnegan on Galway Bay FM.

Mr Harris also admitted assembling a Cabinet of ministers and appointing junior ministers was challenging.

Cabinet reshuffles are always quite challenging because you know everybody involved.

Ive been a member of the Dail now for 13 years, Ive been in the Cabinet for eight years and these people, many of them are your friends, you know them, you know their families, you know how good they are and how hard they work.

And what youre trying to have to do though is, youre trying to put together the best team you can.

Of course, youre conscious of a whole variety of things, geography and gender.

But youre also conscious of the need to drive on and get the peoples business done.

But yeah, its always a tense time and, look, Ive been through this as a minister.

Its always a tense time wondering: Will the phone ring and will I get a call from the Taoiseach and be asked to do a job?

But at the end of the day, outside the bubble we live in, people want to just know are you going to get on with fixing the issues that theyre facing in their own lives.

Mr Harris said becoming Taoiseach has been quite a rollercoaster.

Its been a little bit surreal. Look, its a great honour, its something that I find very humbling. And Im conscious that Im one of only 16 people in Ireland to have the honour to have been the Taoiseach of this great country and that means a lot to me, means a lot to my family.

But Im also very conscious that politics is never about you the office holderits about the difference you can make for people.

He said he first got involved in public life as a moody, opinionated teenager campaigning for better school facilities for his brother with autism in Co Wicklow.

Mr Harris added: So to go from there to here, its been quite a rollercoaster.

But, I intend to give it my all.
Opposition TDs and local residents around Mount Street today delivered a letter to the Department of Integration demanding answers on the crisis of asylum accommodation.

Campaigners and volunteers who have been assisting asylum seekers who have been sleeping rough in the area said the conditions had worsened and the encampment had only grown in recent weeks.

Men who had been camping outside the International Protection Office (IPO) on Mount Street were taken to a new site at Crooksling last month, though a number returned to the city soon after.

Ivana Bacik and Brid Smith at the protest today. Photo: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

In total, there are currently 1,700 international protection applicants awaiting an offer of accommodation across the country.

Labour leader Ivana Bacik and People Before Profit TD and MEP candidate Brid Smith today joined campaigners and a number of asylum seekers at the Department of Integration in Dublin.

Together they delivered the letter demanding answers from Integration Minister Roderic OGorman on the unsustainable conditions on Mount Street.

The situation at IPO is now completely unsustainable  for volunteers, homeless services, local residents, and of course the asylum seekers themselves. The volunteers who for four months have organised food, bedding and clothing have reached breaking point, the letter read.

Social Rights Ireland campaigners, who co-ordinated the action, said it was time to move away from PR-driven quick-fix solutions and tackle this issue head-on.

The letter addressed two questions to Mr OGorman, asking him when further capacity will become available and what his plan is for dealing with the problem of refugee homelessness until the additional beds become available.

Labour leader Ivana Bacik told protesters that the volunteers and local politicians have been absolutely distressed by the conditions on Mount Street and the lack of available alternative accommodation.

It is simply not adequate, she said. "Its not good enough that volunteers are doing this and its become hugely problematic for so many people in the local area, local traders that Ive spoken with who have watched the growth of what is effectively an encampment of deeply, deeply unsanitary conditions that nobody in Ireland should be forced to sleep in in 2024.

Ms Bacik said it was time for Mr OGorman to step up and resolve the issue as local politicians and residents grow increasingly concerned for the health and safety of the men sleeping rough in the area.

"On a humanitarian basis, we want to see decent accommodation and shelter provided to those who come here seeking refugee in the international protection system.

To applause, People Before Profit TD Brid Smith said whether they are Irish or migrant, everyone deserves a place to live, they deserve a roof over their head, they deserve safety.

She said the conditions on Mount Street were a shocking way to treat human beings and a solution must be sought through the provision of alternative accommodation.

"There is absolutely no need for anyone to be sleeping in tents on the streets or in parks and in these conditions.

One Palestinian man, who is seeking refuge in Ireland, said the country and Irish people had respect for the human rights of those seeking international protection but that he had faced many problems here, including racism around the site in Crooksling.

We came back here to tents and up until this moment, we have no solution, he said, adding that the accommodation of people in tents cannot be a long-term solution and it was against international human rights.

The Department of Integration has been contacted for comment.
Some of the motorbikes seized

Some of the bikes seized by gardai.

Gardai conducted a massive day of action on Thursday by seizing a huge number of motorbikes, drugs and cash.

Two people were arrested during the course of the operation in Dublin.

Gardai from the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) South and DMR West Divisions targeted electric motorbikes suspected of being used in criminal activity.

Nineteen search teams, comprising 120 members of An Garda Siochana, searched 40 properties in total.

Gardai seized 10 Surron electric motorbikes with values ranging from 4,000 - 10,000, 12 motorbikes and scramblers as well as 12 electric bikes and e-scooters.

Three quad bikes and a jet-ski and trailer  valued at approximately 10,000  were confiscated. Gardai seized 42,950 in cash and 8,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis.

On top of that, five designer watches  including one Tag Heuer and four Rolex watches  were discovered alongside other designer goods valued at approximately 25,000.

The two people were arrested as part of the garda operation conducted by specialist units from An Garda Siochana assisted including the Armed Support Unit, the National Dog Unit, the Dublin Crime Response Team and Special Tactics and Operational Command (STOC).

Some of the motorbikes seized

A garda spokesperson said: In December 2023, Operation Meacan commenced in the DMR South and is led by the Divisional Serious Crime Unit with support from the Community Engagement Unit and Community Policing Unit based in Tallaght, and the Divisional Roads Policing Unit.

The aim of Operation Meacan is to tackle the use of electric motorbikes which are being used for criminal activity including drug dealing, money laundering, transporting firearms, Drug Related Intimidation (DRI) and other serious offences.

These electric motorbikes are often driven on footpaths, parks and laneways in order to avoid detection by An Garda Siochana.

Since the commencement of Operation Meacan in December 2023 a total of 53 electric motorbikes with a combined value of approximately 300,000 have been seized.

Over 80,000 in cash which is understood to be the proceeds of criminal activity has also been seized by gardai.

Investigations into the criminal activity are ongoing.
A young Irish woman is to be awarded a Global Citizen Prize for her work in tackling poverty and food security.

Sophie Healy-Thow (26) from Kinsale, Co Cork, is one of five people to be awarded the prestigious prize, with the award ceremony taking place during the Global Citizen NOW summit in New York next month.

The Global Citizen Prize honours individuals who are trailblazers in their fields and are making changes to end poverty.

Ms Healy-Thow said it was an honour to have been selected for the award and said the news still hadnt sunk in.

I'm still coming to terms with it, I have to be honest, Ms Healy-Thow said.

It's such a huge platform and it's such an honour to be amongst so many other incredible activists and campaigners from right across the globe. I think I'm still a little bit shocked, she added.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th

The Cork native has received many renowned awards to date, including when she and two classmates won the BT Young Scientist competition in 2013.

The project, which looked at how natural bacteria could be used to increase crop output, went on to win the top prize at the Google Science Fair in San Francisco, when she was just 15.

Her work in the field is extensive. She is the Global Youth Campaigns Coordinator for the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition and serves on the Board of ActionAid UK and the Emergency Nutrition Network.

Sophie Healy-Thow

Ms Healy-Thow said her interest in food systems began when she was young when her grandmother would show her what could be found to eat locally.

She would teach us about picking periwinkles off the rocks or the seaweed that you can pick and eat, she said.

So very like you get what you're given around you, she added.

While Ms Healy-Thow said that food security is not just a problem in Asia and Africa. Instead, it is an international problem that impacts countries like Ireland too and that we can take for granted the available food here.

At the start of the pandemic; we saw shelves empty of food. So, what are we instantly going towards? The imported food, mainly, she said.

Ms Healy-Thow said that instead there needs to be more education around local food that is available in Ireland, of which she said there is plenty.

I wasn't taught in home economics about what Irish food was, and what it means to have Irish recipes and to keep Irish food culture alive, she said.

It's ingrained in us to have a deep connection with food and I think we're losing that a little bit, she added.

Her passion for food systems led to the foundation of Act4Food, a group of youth activists whose goal is to ensure that young people have a seat at the table where decisions about the future of food are made.

Oftentimes I'd find myself in these kinds of big decision-making rooms as merely the token young person, she said.

It was being left out of those decisions that frustrated her and other young people in her position. As she argued, it is the younger generation who will be impacted most by these decisions.

[We said] let's make something that is for young people, by young people asking decision makers to create change with young people in the decision making room, she said.
Delicious reds and whites to try from talented females on the frontline

They say dont meet your heroes, but when it comes to winemakers, theyre always worth meeting.

Its a privilege of working in the world of wine to meet many makers, and I almost always come away with a new perspective that goes beyond mere technicalities or even over-arching philosophies. Seeing how someone moves through the world and hearing how they communicate gives insight into who they  and, often by extension, their wines  are. Its not unique to wine, and is part of why we love to watch TV contestants baking or cooking or painting in response to a collective challenge with the same basic material. Its fascinating how their different personalities find expression in the produced results.

I was reminded of this recently when I met Austrian winemaker Judith Beck on the Dublin leg of her Irish tour, organised by wine importer Pascal Rossignol of Le Caveau. Rossignol deems Beck has rock star status among Irish wine retailers and customers. As rock stars go, Beck is notably grounded, a calm communicator who is always listening and paying attention, even as she puts shape on the story of her winery and her wines. It was a joy to taste her range, and hear about the labour-intensive yet restrained and considered handling of each expression.

Todays wines all come from memorable women I have met, in person or virtually. Thanks to our post-pandemic Zoom fluency, it it is now perfectly plausible to hang out of a Friday with a six-pack of wine and winemakers chatting direct from their wineries.

On last months International Womens Day, WineOnline organised such a tasting with an impressive line-up of women in wine. These included Emer Kirwan-Buckley of Chateau Sirio, whose Graves Blanc I recently recommended, and who will be in Dublin on May 16 for a winemakers dinner (see wineonline.ie). She was joined by Tim Atkins Young Winemaker of the Year 2023 Marelise Niemann, and by Alessia Sciotti of Farnese, whose bush-vine Swartland Grenache and organic Montepulciano dAbruzzo feature respectively today.

Todays white wines are particularly special. One is from two sisters-in-law who applied their science training to a traditional Penedes winery, to innovative effect. The other is from Daniela Quaresima who, last February, passed away far too young. Quaresima brought the same vital, life-affirming energy to her Italian Marche wines as to Dublins Capoeira scene, where she was pivotal since 1999. She will be long remembered, always with a smile to match hers, which was bright and quick to be shared.

Wines of the week

Judith Beck Ink

Judith Beck Ink, Burgenland, Austria, 12.5pc, 20-21 You can see why this juicy, joyous red is so popular in independent retailers: dark fruits of Blaufrankisch blended with 10pc St Laurent for liquorice spice, complexity and freshness, it is a well-priced, very quaffable introduction to Austrian reds and to natural winemaking, from a winemaker who understands how to let the grapes speak for themselves. Her straight-up Blaufrankisch (20.95, lecaveau.ie) is a stunner too but less widely available at only 500 cases. Bradleys, LAtitude 51, NeighbourFood, Baggot Street Wines, Green Man Wines, Fallon & Byrne, Martins, 64 Wine, DrinkStore, lecaveau.ie

wine

La Marca di San Michele Saltatempo 2022, Marche, Italy, 12.5pc, 23.50 As full of life as the dynamic woman who made it  the late, much-missed, adopted Irishwoman Daniela Quaresima  this organic Verdicchio is drinking beautifully: generous and inviting with roast fennel and toasted fruit notes, yet singing with freshness to balance its intensity. Sheridans, MacCurtain Wine Cellar, Fallon & Byrne, The Butlers Pantry, siyps.com

Pares Balta Calcari Xarel-lo 2021

Pares Balta Calcari Xarel-lo 2021, Penedes, Catalunya, Spain, 12.5pc, 18.66 Two science-trained sisters-in-law make wine with certified organic grapes their husbands grow with biodynamic practices. This still white wine stars Xarel-lo, the most structured of Cavas three key grapes; limestone-rich soils lends salinity, while long lees ageing brings a creamy quality. Mitchell & Son; mitchellandson.com

Momento Grenache Noir 2020

Momento Grenache Noir 2020, Swartland, South Africa, 13pc, 40 A beauty that shows what bush-vine Grenache can do in Swartlands decomposed granitic soils, and the right hands. Aromatic with wild floral and smoky fragrance, purity of wild cherry and damson fruit yet delicate structure with fine tannins and minerality. A versatile red for fish and meats. Blackrock Cellar, wineonline.ie

Vini Fantini

Vini Fantini, Farnese Montepulciano dAbruzzo 2021, Italy, 14pc, 19.95 Produced with organic certification at a second-generation winery where Alessia Sciotti and her sister oversee winemaking, exports and winery hospitality. This is beautifully made Montepulciano, with ripe and rich dark cherry and plum aromas, mocha oak notes and dense chalky tannins finishing with juicy cassis lift. wineonline.ie
Thousands of holidaymakers who fled wildfires in Rhodes last July have been offered a free seven-night stay this year.

Under the initiative, individuals who were evacuated from their hotel stays due to the fires will have the opportunity to claim e-vouchers valued from 300 to 500.

These vouchers can be applied towards the costs of accommodations for a week-long stay.

The program will be conducted in two stages: the first from now until May 31, and the second from October 1 to November 15.

Beneficiaries can be all adult individuals, regardless of nationality, who were staying in hotels evacuated during the wildfires on the island of Rhodes in July 2023, its website says.

The scheme is up and running as the prime minister promised, Myron Flouris, the Greek tourism ministrys general secretary, told the Guardian.

Its been a very complicated process not least, I think, because were the first country in the world to do this.

More than 5,000 holidaymakers have reportedly already signed up for the programme.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis' centre-right administration unveiled the plan on ITV's Good Morning Britain shortly after numerous tourists had to prematurely end their vacations due to the wildfires, leading to their evacuation on repatriation flights.

At one point, last July, the Irish Independent reported that up to 750 Irish people were holidaying on the island as wildfires raged on its south.

Voucher amounts will depend on the star rating and room types of affected hotels guests had booked  ranging from 300 for up to triple rooms in three-star hotels to 500 for four- or five-stars above triple room type, according to the program website.

On a Monday visit, Mitsotakis warned that wildfires would grow due to the climate crisis.

"The Mediterranean is a climate hotspot, leading to more fires and floods," he stated at a conference in Rhodes, titled EU Tourism: Resilience in the Climate Crisis Era, hosted by the European Travel Commission.

Thousands were forced to flee their hotels and homes because of the wildfires, in what was described as the biggest safe transport of residents and tourists Greece had carried out.

British tourists were particularly affected, with more than 5,000 on the island when the wildfires broke out last summer, resulting in holiday companies being forced to lay on repatriation flights to get people home.

Mitsotakis first made the pledge to offer the week-long holidays last year.

He said: "For all those whose holiday was cut short as a result of wildfires, the Greek government, in co-operation with local authorities, will offer one week of free holidays on Rhodes, next spring [and] next fall, so that we make sure they come back to the island and enjoy its natural beauty."
To know the story of the bag we must first look at our primal past. Within the Paleolithic era all human societies were nomadic. Thus, we can only hypothesise that they used some form of bag to transport objects.

Surely, the first items that were moved around were our young who were unable to walk for themselves and were carried here and there. However, nomadic societies at the time had fewer possessions  they moved towards resources.

This comes to how we relate to things and the beginnings of personal property, the embers of capitalism perhaps. My loin cloth, not yours. Stanford archaeologist Ian Hodder argues that when people picked up the first tools 2.5 million years ago, they kicked off a cycle of people depending on objects.

The word bag itself comes from the Norse word baggi which means load or bundle. We carry what we value and need. Bags were an accessory as far back as 3,000 years BC  a bag-like item existed when humans were cave-dwellers.

Fashion brand Balenciaga is famed for handbags. Photo: Jeffrey Greenberg

Containers made from animal skins and plants were used to transport food and weapons. In the Middle Ages, bags werent borne on the back but attached to the belt and were typically very small and only used for carrying coins. By the 1400s, men and women were wearing handbags adorned with jewellery and made with expensive fabrics such as silk.

Not all bag-related developments were positive. In 1965, the one-piece plastic bag was patented by Swedish company Celloplast. Were still living with that litter legacy. Paper and cloth were used before, but werent as cheap or reliable. Was there a fork in the road with function to the right and fashion to the left?

Then theres the phenomenon of the purse. This was the preserve of the elite from the Middle Ages up until the Roaring Twenties. Historically, the contents of the bag indicated status, but now the bag itself does that  think Gucci.

Woman shopping with a mesh bag. Photo: Getty

Look around the next time you are on a high street. What does bag choice tell us about the wearer? The first-day-of-school look of the backpack has re-emerged as a handy way of holding a work laptop while the shoulder-strap gym bag tells all in the vicinity: I was at the gym, and I value my health.

The sophisticated briefcase has all but disappeared from our public settings as the need to transmit paper and documents has declined. Someone rolling a suitcase behind them is quietly announcing: Im travelling somewhere.

The bagless man in the shirt, jacket and jeans on the bus is saying without speaking: Im going out, but will be returning to my home within the day.

The bum bag, or fanny pack, which my parents made me wear when going through airports as a kid, has now resurfaced as festival chic. Revealing its function ultimately is the guiding light for fashion predictions when it comes to the bag.

The bag contains the secrets of what we hold dear. It displays our reliance on stuff. Our materialism and mobile nature suggests the future of the bag is secure.
With 50 convictions to his name at the time of his death, Cyril 'Dublin Jimmy' McGuinness was the puppet master of one of the most sadistic and shocking crimes in Irelands recent history: The 2019 kidnapping and torture of businessman Kevin Lunney.

McGuinness links to the underworld stretched far and wide, and he developed a reputation as a shrewd criminal who was able to get the job done, so long as it was for the right price. Despite his death five years ago, Dublin Jimmy continues to make headlines.

This week, the deceased gangster's brother Fran McGuinness told the High Court Cyril McGuinness worked for and was friendly "all his life" with former billionaire Sean Quinn. Cyril, who was suspected of a number of attacks on former Quinn business premises following the collapse of the Quinn empire, including masterminding the abduction of Kevin Lunney, also lived in a Derrylin, Co Fermanagh, property once owned by Mr Quinn, Fran McGuinness said.

Truck dealer Mr McGuinness (62), originally from Pinnock Hill, Swords, Co Dublin, and currently living on the Dublin Road, Newry, Co Down, claims he has been the victim of garda harassment over several years simply because of his brother.

Today on the Indo Daily, Fionnan Sheehan is joined by Ken Foy, crime correspondent with the Irish Independent, to look at the life of one of Irelands most savage gangsters, who spent his criminal career taking any side for money.
The programme supports older people in accessing services, grants and resources

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank OFlynn, Cork County Council, Patricia Liddy, Director of Service, MD operations and Development, Cork County Council, Micheal Lynch, Divisional Manager south Cork, Cork County Council , Liz Downes, Chair of the Cork County Older Persons Council and Anthony Holmes, Regional Programme Manager, Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme , Cork County Council is proud to support the Re-launch of the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme, a service available to residents of County Cork aimed at supporting adults over 65 to remain living in their own homes and communities. Photography By Gerard McCarthy

A service that aims at help County Cork residents aged over 65 to remain living in their own homes and communities has been relaunched for 2024.

The Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme was first run by Cork County Council in 2021 and following its successful implementation, it has been rolled out to every local authority in Ireland since then.

For this year, two local coordinators and a regional programme manager have been assigned to the programme to keep up with an increasing volume of referrals for the service.

Chair of Cork Countys Older Peoples Council, Liz Downes, said the programme is a great initiative that helps older people to access services, grants and resources to enable them to stay happy and healthy in their own home and avoid premature entry into long term care.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Frank O Flynn, said the programme will be important in helping Irelands rapidly ageing population to stay in their homes.

Most people wish to remain living in their own homes and communities, which unfortunately is not always possible. The Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme is an important, person-centred initiative aimed at helping older people to continue living in their homes or in one more suited to their needs, Mayor OFlynn said.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Valerie OSullivan, said that she is sure that the programme will make a real difference to the lives of people living in communities across Cork.

For more information on how to refer someone or apply for the programme, visit www.corkcoco.ie
The new 'Biddy Mulligan' signage above what once was The Sackville Lounge. Pic: @dublin_damo

Dubliners have slammed gaudy new signage above what was once The Sackville Lounge, a traditional local pub just a stones throw from OConnell Street.

The Sackville has been closed since 2020 when it was taken over by Mulligans Leisure Group.

The new signage, which only appeared in recent days, is dotted with shamrocks and reads: Biddy Mulligans Old Ale & Stout House, Public House since 1914.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th

Dubliners have since compared it to a fridge magnet youd buy in a Carrolls gift shop, or looking like a cheap and tacky tourist trap.

Dublin by Pub, a popular blog which has been building an archive of the citys pubs, said small, intimate bars like The Sackville are rightly held dear by those who frequent them.

People naturally get upset when someone wants to overhaul such places that they hold so dear, they said.

To see the gaudy signage that heralds Biddy Mulligans Old Ale and Stout House, we make a fair assumption that the pubs target market will no longer be the GPO and Dublin Bus workers youd often see frequenting the place.

Over the last 24 hours, the name has been likened to something from The Simpsons or any of the generic Irish bars on a Mediterranean budget package holiday destination.

They also added that the name Biddy Mulligan comes from a folk song about a street seller who lived on the other side of the city around the Coombe.

Dubliners have a special place in their hearts for their pubs  and why shouldnt we? We have some of the best public houses on earth, they said.

The old Sackville Lounge off O'Connell Street. Pic: Martin Maher

Ours are the archetype, the ones against which all others should be measured, and the idea that someone should take an original and transform it into a gaudy pastiche, mainly for profit, is offensive to a lot of us.

These public houses are part of our built heritage, and the reason a lot of people come to this city in the first place.

Theres an onus on us to make sure as many of them stay as authentic as possible  and as Biddy Mulligans Old Ale and Stout House does not scream authenticity to a lot of us, I think were entirely validated in bemoaning that fact.

Donal Fallon, Dublin historian and Three Castles Burning podcaster, added that most tourism is motivated by a search for something authentic.

He said a prime example of this exists in the neighbouring Pipers Corner, a pub that supports traditional musicians with a mostly local clientele with occasional visitors who stumble upon it who feel they found something real.

Theres a great moment when those worlds meet, something we all look for when we travel, he said.

Looking at the new signage above the old Sackville Lounge, Mr Fallon compared the signage to a poor imitation of McSorleys Ale House in New York, which is a very historic institution.

To try and recreate something distinctly Irish American here falls flat, he said.

May is the centenary of Sackville Street becoming OConnell Street and it was one of the last little nods in the area to that past.

Ultimately, public houses are privately run commercial enterprises and they can do as they wish with these things.

A number of pub interiors are rightly protected architecturally, but its ultimately people that make a public house special, he added.
Sean Kearney worked in Grogan's for over five decades. Pic: @GrogansPub

Tributes have been paid following the death of a long-standing and popular barman at Grogans pub in Dublin.

Grogans Castle Lounge made the announcement with great sadness that Sean Kearney, their great friend and colleague of over 50 years, had passed away on Wednesday.

Mr Kearney, who lived in Palmerstown, was a native of Co Offaly before moving to Dublin.

Grogans added that he would be missed immensely by all, and said it will be closing its doors on Tuesday as a mark of respect on the day of Mr Kearneys funeral.

Dublin historian and Three Castles Burning podcaster Donal Fallon took to social media, saying Mr Kearney was surely a contender for the longest-serving barman in the city.

Mr Fallon added that he had worked in the International before spending more than five decades in Grogans, working with Joe Grogan before it was acquired by Kennedy and Smith in the 1970s.

He is immortalised in the stained-glass features, Mr Fallon said.

Like Paddy O'Brien before him, he was part of a tradition of skilled barmen who became synonymous with the institutions in which they worked.

A notice on RIP.ie says: The death has occurred of Sean Kearney of Palmerstown, formerly of Clonbollogue, Co Offaly, and Grogans bar. Passed away peacefully in St Jamess Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Very sadly missed by his family, relatives, wide circle of friends and neighbours.
Aisling Kinsella with the rare White Skate egg case she found in the Maharees, pictured during Storm Kathleen, with Louise Overy (Wild life Biology MTU); her mom, Mairead; and Martha Farrell of the Maharees Conservation Group. Photo by Mark OSullivan

Eagle-eyed eight-year-old Aisling Kinsella has made one of the marine biology finds of the year in Kerry after spotting and correctly identifying the large egg case of the critically-endangered White Skate in the Maharees  just hours after attending a talk on the subject!

The egg purse or mermaids purse, measuring 15.5cm in length, has captured the imagination of all involved in conservation locally, whove been striving hard for years to help protect the areas precious White Skate population.

For its message is ultimately one of profound hope for all skates and relatives in the elasmobranch family of fish  skates, sharks and rays.

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That it came just hours after Aisling had attended the very talk in which she received the key details necessary to make the identification on Maharabeg made it even more special.

Wildlife Biology Officer at the MTU Louise Overy, who is a member of the Irish Elasmobranch Group, was the expert who delivered that talk at the Maharees Conservation Association Mermaids Purse Identification event the day before (supported by the Local Authority Waters Programme Community Water Development Fund).

Louise put Aislings find in context as she met up with her on Saturday to examine the egg case: Adult White skates can reach an impressive 2m in wingspan and have been found to live to 74.

However, they are also very slow growing and very late to mature and so this makes them particularly at risk of population decline. Some estimates have shown that they dont start reproducing until they are 20-23 years old and each embryo within the egg-case may take as long as 15 months to hatch. Aislings egg case capsule was very well preserved and measured 15.5cm in length.

There have been 33 species of elasmobranch species recorded in Ireland to date and many of them lay egg cases that can wash ashore, all of unique shape and size to each species.

This can be really helpful in helping us to identify areas all around our coast that are particularly important for them. Tralee bay is one such example and recognized internationally as being a vital area acting as a nursery for many threatened elasmobranchs and indeed it is one of the last remaining places in Ireland you may still be incredibly lucky and find a White skate egg-case.

Limerick native Aisling is certainly counting her lucky stars after making the find. Her mom Mairead spoke of their pride in her discovery: We love visiting the Maharees and have learned so much about the environment and precious ecology of the area from the Maharees Conservation Association. We spend so much time here, its important to me that Aisling and her brother Oliver appreciate the uniqueness of the area and the wonders we can see.

We went to the egg purse talk last Saturday and after seeing the sample Louise had, Aisling immediately recognised when she spotted the white skate egg purse on the shore a few days later. We are so proud that this is a important discovery with significance for the conservation community.

Colum Walsh, Community Water Officer for Kerry with LAWPRO praised Aislings skills:

The outer Tralee Bay is one of Kerrys 68 Blue Dot catchments designated for their high-status water body objectives under the Water Framework Directive. It is heartening to hear how quickly the Ray and Skate egg case identification training day skills were put to use by Aisling! Its very important to encourage our young people to act as citizen scientists which the team in Maharees are doing with funding from the Community Water Development fund.

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Martha Farrell of the Maharees Conservation Association Biodiversity team said: We are just delighted that our event made an almost immediate impact. The fact that Aisling, at such a young age, noticed and correctly identified the case on a family walk along the beach motivates our team to keep engaging our visitors and community in Maharees wildlife experiences.

These citizen science records are really important to the biologists and state agencies trying to conserve our native species.

Anyone coming across a White skate egg-case can send a picture to the IEG Facebook or Instagram page or by email to irishelasmobranchgroup@gmail.com
Fundraiser to bring the remains of Maurice McCarthy (25) home raises almost 80,000 in less than a day His death has left a cloud on the whole community

A young Co Kilkenny man who died tragically in New Zealand will be making his final journey home to his heartbroken family.

Maurice McCarthy (25) from Garrandarragh in Mullinavat, Co Kilkenny moved to New Zealand in October of 2019.

On Monday April 8 2024, Maurice died tragically in Geraldine in South Canterbury in New Zealand.

With the help of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, Maurices remains will be repatriated to Ireland, so he can be reunited with his loving family in Co Kilkenny.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th

A fundraiser has been launched on Go Fund Me to help raise cash to bring Maurice home, and to also raise funds to be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund, so that families who find themselves in a similar situation in the future also get the support to bring their loved ones home.

Maurices story has caught the hearts of many in Kilkenny and beyond, as a staggering 80,000 has already be raised in less than 24 hours.

The fundraiser, which was set up by Hannah Lonergan on behalf of the McCarthy family, will help bring Maurice on his final journey back home to us in Mullinavat.

"This fundraiser was set up on behalf of the McCarthy family for our beautiful, kind, fun-spirited Maurice who passed away unexpectedly on April 8 2024 in Geraldine, New Zealand, explained Ms Lonergan.

"Maurice was a hugely popular character who was known and loved by so many in Ireland and abroad.

"Maurice made the move to New Zealand in October 2019 and to say he flourished there is an understatement. In his short 25 years, he touched so many lives and made so many journeys. Its time now for his final journey back home to us in Mullinavat.

Not only will the money raised help get Maurice back to his family in Kilkenny, it will also be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, a charity that has helped countless families in Ireland during their darkest hours.

The funds are being donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, who have been an outstanding support in this devastating time. The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust aims to alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families by repatriating the bodies of loved ones who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances back to Ireland.

"We want to give them as much as possible so they can continue to help other families in our situation. We cant express how grateful we are to Colin and the Bell family for helping to bring Maurice home to us.

We appreciate absolutely anything that you can contribute. Please kindly support this in any way you can, from donating to sharing this fundraiser for others to see.

Your support is greatly appreciated by all who knew Maurice. Thank you to everyone who has donated and shared so far, concluded Ms Lonergan.

To donate to the fundraise please click here

Local Councillor Eamon Aylward said the sudden passing of Maurice has left a cloud on the whole community.

"The McCarthys are neighbours of mine. Its a very sad situation, especially with the fact he is so far away adds to the heartache for the family.

"They have set up the Go Fund Me page and there has been a fantastic response to that page in the space of just 24 hours which shows the high regard Maurice and the McCarthy family are held in.

"They are a well known family is the area, very active in the farming community. Maurice worked in that business himself in New Zealand. But the news is so sad, he was only 25-years-old, concluded Cllr Aylward.

Tributes have flooded in on RIP.ie for the great character that was Maurice.

"I had the privilege of working with Maurice in New Zealand. A great character. Will be sadly missed, wrote one mourner.

Another said: Deepest sympathy to the McCarthy family, shocked and saddened of Maurices sudden passing. Have very fond memories working for and with Maurice in New Zealand and the jokes and the craic we had together.

Maurice is predeceased by his grandparents Jimmy and Anna McCarthy and his grandfather Maurice Harney.

He is the treasured son of Sean and Eleanor (Nee Harney), he will be sadly missed by his heartbroken sister Anne Marie (Healy) and brothers Martin, James, John and Rory, sister-in-law Tegan, brother-in-law Thomas, adored grandson of Bridget (Harney), uncles Patrick, Val and Maurice Austin, aunts Lynda and Anne, niece Ava, nephew Sean, cousins, all at Woodley's Agricultural, extended family, neighbours and Maurice's many friends, read Maurices death notice on RIP.ie.

Details of Maurices funeral will be announced at a later date.
A Dundalk woman who is fighting to have her two Irish-born children who are being held in Egypt by her ex-husband returned to Ireland said that she feels more hopeful after meeting with the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, on Thursday.
Councillor Michael Murphy has announced his intention to put his name forward at a Fine Gael Convention for selection as the party's candidate in Tipperary South

Tipperary County Councillor Michael Murphy has announced his intention to run for a Dail seat at the next General Election on behalf of Fine Gael.

Councillor Murphy is the second Tipperary Fine Gael member to announce his intention to contest a Dail seat in recent days, as Senator Garret Ahearn will also be putting his name forward in the Premier County.

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Councillor Murphy is based in the Fethard Road in Clonmel, and first became involved in politics in 2008 when he joined the Fine Gael Party.

In 2009, he was elected to South Tipperary County Council, at his first attempt. He also contested the 2011 General Election, and received 5,402 first preference votes. He was re-elected as a Councillor in 2014, and again in 2019, topping the poll.

He has served as Cathaoirleach of Tipperary and Mayor of Clonmel, represents the Clonmel Electoral Area on Tipperary County Council, and is Head of the Irish Delegation to the EU Committee of the Regions. A businessman by profession, Cllr Murphy is a senior executive with the Enfer Group.

We all know the next General Election with take place within the next nine months or so, said Cllr Murphy. And so it is time for all political parties to begin their preparations for the election with their selection of candidates. Fine Gael is no different in this regard.

Now that the date for the Fine Gael Selection Convention for the constituency of Tipperary South has been arranged for April 29, I wish to publicly announce that I will be putting my name forward at that Convention for selection as the Fine Gael candidate in Tipperary South.

I have a number of reasons for making this decision, said Cllr Murphy. My experience as a Councillor since 2009 has brought me into contact with so many people whom I have been able to assist in their dealings with local and national government.

I have used my terms as Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council and as Mayor of Clonmel to promote the county of Tipperary at national and European level. This general election will be very important for Fine Gael, particularly in the county of Tipperary where the party has not held a Dail seat since 2016.

I have strong organisational and leadership skills with an exceptional work output and ethic. I feel that my exposure to local political involvement has equipped me well to advance to the next stage - that as a TD for the constituency, and I feel that my candidacy will put Fine Gael in a strong position to regain its Dail seat.

I will be asking the members of Fine Gael in the constituency to place their trust in me to be their standard-bearer in the next general election and, more importantly, to be a winning-candidate.

I believe that my track record of representation, commitment, availability and achievement has prepared me well to take on the role of a Dail Deputy and if I am selected as the Fine Gael candidate, I will dedicate all my energy to regaining the Dail seat and to be an effective representative for the people of South Tipperary, added Cllr Murphy.
Bryan Murray and Una Crawford O'Brien pictured at the launch of the 30th anniversary of Alzheimers Tea Day. Photo: Sasko Lazarov /  Photocall Ireland

A well-known Alzheimers Day Care Centre in Co Wexford is due to host a fundraising Tea Day later this month.

The Alzheimers Day Centre in Riverchapel, Gorey, will host an Alzheimers Tea Day as part of a nationwide fundraiser for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. This is the 30th anniversary of the popular Tea Day fundraiser.

The Riverchapel Tea Day will take place on Tuesday, April 30, from 11am to 1pm. The 30th anniversary is a significant milestone as statistics show that at least 30 people in Ireland are diagnosed with dementia every day.

The Alzheimer Society of Irelands vital work has provided much-needed resources and services for the 64,000 individuals living with dementia and their families nationwide. Tea Day helps to support the ASI so they can continue their efforts.

Over the 30 years, Tea Day has raised 10 million for the cause. Funds raised through Alzheimer's Tea Day support critical services like the Alzheimer's National Helpline, Daycare programs, home care, family carer training, social clubs, and Alzheimer's cafes.

Mairead Dillon, Head of Fundraising for the ASI, commented, Whether you host an event, attend one, or simply donate, every action brings us closer to a future where no one faces dementia alone. Together, let's raise a cup of kindness and make the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer's Tea Day the most successful yet.

For more information or to register as an organiser, please visit www.teaday.ie.
Local Election Candidate and former Councillor Jimmy Fleming is calling on Wexford County Council to ensure that the former Camolin Healthcare Centre is brought back into community use.

Local Election candidate Jimmy Fleming is calling on Wexford County Council to ensure that the former Camolin Healthcare Centre is brought back into community use.

Mr Fleming who is a former councillor would like Wexford County Council to ensure that funding is available for the purchase of this building from the HSE so it can be made available as a community facility.

"This building could be put to great use in the village of Camolin. Converting the building for general purpose use would be a great addition to the area and would be put to good use by the people and community groups in the area. It is a shame to see the building lying idle and it would be an even greater shame if the building could not be kept in community use.

In 2022, Wexford County Council acquired the old Bank of Ireland building in Rosslare Harbour with works due to begin next month to turn that property into a community facility for the area, I am calling on the Council to do the same for the people of Camolin, said Mr Fleming.

The HSE recently confirmed to Wexford Independent TD Verona Murphy, that the former Healthcare Centre in Camolin is surplus to their requirements and that they intend to dispose of the property.
TWO THOUSAND five hundred trees have been planted at Clonroche Amenity Park as part of The 100 Million Trees Project  which is a community driven initiative to plant 100 million native trees across Ireland.

Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Councillor John Fleming, Councillor Michael Sheehan, New Ross Municipal District, members of Clonroche Development Association, members of the local community, Richard Mulchay and representatives from Forestry Services were in attendance on Friday for the planting ceremony.

Cllr Fleming welcomed everyone and thanked the Clonroche Development Association, Richard Mulcahy, Wexford County Council and Uniphar for making this project happen. He paid a special word of thanks to all in the local community for their commitment and dedication in keeping the park and the village of Clonroche looking so well.

Richard Mulcahy said: We are delighted to partner with Clonroche Development Association and bring the total number of young native trees planted to just over 200,000 across 99 sites.

He thanked Uniphar for their sponsorship for the 2023/2024 planting season, adding that the planting in Clonroche Amenity Park will provide numerous benefits to the local community and for biodiversity in the area.

The 100 Million Trees Project is a national initiative developed by brothers, Richard and David Mulcahy in 2023, with their sister Tina coming on board in 2024. The project aims to see the planting of 100 million native Irish trees across the island of Ireland over the next decade, as a community-driven initiative.

The projects ambitious aim will be achieved through densely planting between 500 and 2,500 native Irish trees at a time across small areas of land using the Miyawaki method. Named after Japanese Botanist, Professor Akira Miyawaki, who developed the technique in the 1970s as a means to restore degraded land, the Miyawaki Method of overplanting trees, has been successful in creating over 1,700 forests worldwide.

By planting excess trees together these grow ten times faster, thirty times denser, create an area one hundred times more biodiverse and most importantly create a very rapid carbon sink. This inexpensive approach requires significantly smaller planting areas and can be carried out on unused or fallow land across Ireland.
Minister for Education Norma Foley TD has announced 2.7million in funding to support digital learning in schools and minor building works in County Wexford.

50 million in grant funding for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) will issue shortly to all recognised primary and post-primary schools across the country, while a separate 29 million in minor works funding is being provided to primary and special schools.

2.7m of the overall funding is to be allocated to schools in Co Wexford.

I am pleased to be announcing funding which will support primary, post-primary and special schools in Wexford and throughout Ireland to enhance both school settings and teaching and learning, to benefit our pupils and students.

ICT grant funding will support schools to ensure they can continue to embed the use of digital technologies in their teaching, learning and assessment. Digital technologies can open up a world of opportunities to our pupils and students. It is important that schools can properly equip our young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding to harness the benefits of such technologies, said Minister Foley.

The ICT funding is being provided to schools to help them continue to use digital technologies in their teaching, learning and assessment, while the minor works funding can be used by these schools for maintenance and small-scale improvements to school buildings and grounds.

The 50 million ICT grant represents the second tranche of ICT funding under the Digital Strategy for schools to 2027. Schools previously received 50m in ICT grant funding for the 2021 to 2022 school year.

The Digital Strategy ICT grant will consist of a 2,000 basic grant for primary schools plus an additional payment of 39 per mainstream pupil, 43 per pupil in DEIS schools and 47 per pupil with special educational needs attending a special school or attending a special class attached to a mainstream primary school. For example: a 100 pupil-primary school will receive 5,973 and a 500 pupil primary school will receive 21,865.

Post-primary schools will be paid a 2,000 basic grant plus 47 per mainstream student and 52 per student in DEIS schools. A 500 student- post primary school would receive 25,840 and a 1,000 student-post-primary school would receive 49,680.

This ICT grant builds on the 210m already allocated under the previous Digital Strategy for Schools 2015-2020, and the 50m issued under Irelands National Recovery and Resilience Plan to enable schools to support learners at risk of education disadvantage through the digital divide.

Minister Foley said the department is acutely aware of schools need to have appropriate ICT infrastructure and it remains committed to continued funding to support the implementation of the Digital Strategy.

Minister Foley is also commissioning further research into the use of digital technologies in teaching and learning as part of the Digital Strategy for Schools to 2027.

Implementation of this strategy is well underway so it is timely to consider where we are in this journey. To that end, I am further commissioning research on the impact on student learning and wellbeing through the use of digital technologies in teaching and learning to help inform policy and optimise the resources and supports provided to schools, said Minister Foley.

The circular outlining the criteria applying to the Digital Strategy ICT Infrastructure Grant Scheme will be published soon. Meanwhile, arrangements are now being made for the payment of 29 million in Minor Works grants to primary schools and special schools. This will support the operation of the primary schools for the forthcoming 2024/25 school year. The lead-in period ahead of the new school year will give schools good time to consider plans and priorities for use of the funding.

Minor works payments are a vital resource in terms of supporting the operation of schools generally and I am pleased to be able to announce 29 million in funding that will allow school communities to address issues at local level. Given that each school setting is different, individual schools are best placed to decide how best to use this funding to address their particular maintenance needs. In this respect the minor works grant funding provides good flexibility to address issues at local school level.

Good maintenance arrangements are important and should be prioritised with this funding. Maintenance of school buildings is important in promoting health and safety, in providing an appropriate and welcoming learning environment, and in protecting the significant levels of public funding being invested in new and upgraded school infrastructure, said Minister Foley.

The departments Planning and Building Unit is currently finalising updated guidance for schools in relation to good practice arrangements for maintenance of school buildings. It is envisaged that this guidance will be finalised and published later in Q2 2024. It is envisaged that the guidance will be provided in an on-line interactive format that will be easily accessible and user friendly for use by schools.
One year after parking their coffee truck on Arklows booming culinary scene, the Argentinian couple behind the Kul Beans Kaffe have hailed the rapidly-growing town as the perfect location to follow their dream.

Originally from Rosario in the central Argentine province of Santa Fe, Denise Pollacchi and Emiliano Gamarra uprooted their lives to move to Ireland in 2018, heeding the recommendations of several of their Dublin-based friends who had waxed lyrical about the Emerald Isle.

After living and working in the capital for three years, the smitten couple sought a change of pace and, after a long and arduous search, found their new home in Courtown on the Wexford coast.

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Becoming frustrated with the daily commute to Dublin, the pair felt the time was right for a new adventure and started scouting locations for their new coffee truck enterprise.

Our grandparents were Italian and moved to Argentina after World War II, Emiliano began.

We had a chance to do our Italian citizenship some years ago, and after we got it, we decided we wanted a fresh start in Europe, so we moved to Denmark.

It was there that the coffee business dream started, as coffee trucks are a huge thing over there and have been for at least the last six or seven years.

We had a few friends living in Dublin at the time, and they kept telling us how lovely it was and how we just had to come here. So, we visited, loved it, and moved here in 2018.

We lived in Dublin for three years and then moved to Courtown, but I was still working in Dublin at the time and was spending a lot of my time and money travelling up and down, and it didnt really make sense, he continued.

I was talking to Denise one day, and we both agreed it was the perfect time to launch our coffee truck, so we looked around the towns and villages close to us to see if any didnt have a business like it, and thats when we found Arklow.

It just felt like the perfect location for it. Its a busy place with friendly people who love their coffee, and when the treatment plant comes, the town will only grow more, so it really is a fantastic place to be.

Business has been great since we opened, and we know we made the right decision  we are so happy to be here.

Since parking their coffee truck on Yellow Lane (beside TJ OMahony and Mr Price) last year, Denise and Emiliano have been proudly honouring an Italian-Argentine heritage synonymous with great-tasting coffee, with the entrepreneurs pouring their hearts into all the delicious speciality coffees and mouthwatering treats they serve.

Asked if there were any similarities between the tastes of Arklow and Rosario coffee lovers, Emiliano replied: In Argentina, there is a very big culture around going to the coffee shop for a while and having some espresso and breakfast.

We do have coffee to go back home, and the culture around it is just developing, but people here in Ireland are just mad about it.

Our regular customers love their coffee to take away, and were also starting to expand our range of treats, including brownies and carrot cake, which people have been very complimentary about, and we will further expand the variety of our treats in the coming months.

Since we started the business, the people of Arklow have been so supportive and nice to us, he added.

Its a lot of work, and hearing all the kind words and the same friendly faces coming back makes it all worthwhile.

The coffee truck is a new adventure for us, and we are really trying to build a coffee community by providing an amazing service, so the positive feedback from the Arklow community and visitors to the town is really encouraging to hear.

A big thanks to everyone in Arklow for welcoming us into their town, supporting us and making us feel like part of the family.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th
Community members and local Councillor John Mullen were in attendance to check out the new service, with Specsavers Wexford staff on hand to demonstrate their video auto-scope and a bumper raffle that raised funds for the community hall, which will host the audiology clinic.

The new clinic expands Specsavers expert audiology services to an additional location to further cater to the broader Tinahely communitys hearing needs, opening on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from 10 to 5 p.m.

Audiology Director of Specsavers Wexford, Rachel Hetherington, who has spearheaded the expansion, said: We had a good turnout on the day, with locals popping in, and we were very pleased with the interest it generated.

It was an opportunity for people to see what we do and meet us. We used the video auto-scope, which people thought was amazing, because they could see what the inside of their ear and ear canal looked like.

We had a little raffle for the community hall, which raised around 120, and local businesses had kindly donated prizes, which was very good for them.

Theres huge excitement about the service coming to the village, and the feedback we have received has been very positive she added.

Tinahely is very rural, and I just wanted to be hearing services to the local community because not everybody can get into Arklow, Gorey or Wexford. You can walk from the town to the community hall, or if you live in the surrounding areas, it will be much easier to get a lift that short distance.

Im going to be doing home visits for people in the area that cant make it to the clinic, and I would have a lot of existing patients from around the area, so its good for them to have something more local where they can get their hearing aid checked or cleaned.

We are delighted to be able to offer their hearing services to the people in Tinahely and the surrounding areas.
Taoiseach Simon Harris meets pupils at St Laurence's NS in Greystones, in his capacity as Further Education Minister, in November 2021.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has confirmed that his former primary school, St Laurences National School in Greystones, has received funding for long-awaited fencing works as well as Stage 1 approval (preliminary design) for new special classes.

The Taoiseach said he was thrilled to confirm that the school had received final approval for the fencing as well as the green light for the special classes, which he said were badly needed.

I know from speaking to Principal Ann-Marie Martin and many of the staff in St Laurences NS that this has been badly needed in the past two years, he said. The new fencing will provide much needed relief for those working with pupils of St Laurences.

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For the past two years I have been working with the school, the Department of Education and the local community to get this over the line. As a past pupil of St Laurences I am delighted that this is finally over the line.

Taoiseach Harris added: I am also delighted to hear that the school has received Stage 1 approval for new special education classes for the school. This is hugely welcome as families in the area know too well the growing needs of the Greystones community.

I want to pay tribute to the staff and the principal Ann-Marie Martin who has pursued these two issues relentlessly. St Laurences School prides itself on providing the highest level of teaching and learning for their pupils at all times and they are also aware of the absolute necessity of providing a safe environment for the children that attend the school.

As Taoiseach, I will be placing a particular focus on the growing needs of people with disabilities and will constantly work to ensure those needs are met, he concluded.

Meanwhile, the newly-installed Wicklow Taoiseach said he remains committed to ensuring the countys education needs are addressed, and welcomed the 800m funding package for 90 school building projects across the country, including some 17 in County Wicklow.

Some of the the school buildings currently at tender stage will be authorised to proceed to construction over the course of this year and early 2025.

This funding is very welcome, especially for school building projects in Wicklow, and especially in Greystones, the Taoiseach said. Many parents and families across the county know too well about the delays and stress of getting school places secured ahead of the next academic year.

The Department of Education is putting forward a record level of investment to make sure we meet the demands of families with children going to school. As Taoiseach I will remain committed to ensuring our County of Wicklow is well serviced and that the right level of funding is put through to get much needed school building projects over the line.

I was delighted to announce just last month that the Department of Education committed that Greystones Community College will absolutely be the first project among its bundle to break ground. I want to reassure parents in Wicklow that the Department of Education will ensure that school places will be available for all children for September 2024 and into the future.

For too long Wicklow has had to deal with school shortages in certain areas, this has put too much strain on parents every year. I cannot wait for this funding to be allocated and see it expand the number of schools across Ireland, increase provision for special education and upgrade the current school infrastructure.

As a public representative for Wicklow I will continue to push for additional school places in areas of demand and will seek to see significant progress achieved in this area, he concluded.

The status of large scale projects in Wicklow included in the next phase of the departments school building programme are:

St Catherine's Special school, Newcastle Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Gaelscoil an tInbhir Mhor, Arklow Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

GS na Lochanna, Blessington Stage 1

Newtownmountkennedy Primary School, Kilcoole Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Kilcoole Primary School, Kilcoole Stage 3 (Tender Stage)

Woodstock ETNS Stage 1

Arklow CBS Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Loreto Secondary School, Bray Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

North Wicklow ET Secondary School Site Acquisition Process

Wicklow ETSS Site Acquisition Process

Blessington Community College Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

St Kevin's Community College, Dunlavin Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Avondale Community College, Rathdrum Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Colaiste Chraoibh Abhainn, Kilcoole Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Gaelcholaiste na Mara, Arklow Stage 2b (Detailed Design)

Greystones Community College Stage 3 (Tender Stage)

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 12th
Applications are now open for Wicklow community groups to benefit from a pot of 1,584,550, that has been allocated under the 2024 Community Recognition Fund.

These funds form part of an overall investment of 50 million for the delivery of projects over 2025 and 2026, and were announced last month by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, together with her colleague Minister Joe OBrien TD.

The initiative was first introduced last year to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland. It aims to support the development of community infrastructure and facilities for the entire community.

The Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer OGorman, stated that this exceptional investment will further fund the communities that have enthusiastically supported the new arrivals into their local area.

Wicklow County Council is seeking expressions of interest for project proposals from community groups in areas where large numbers of citizens from other countries are currently living. Projects to be funded will be capital in nature, deliver medium to long term benefits for the communities in which they are located, and must be capable of being delivered over the course of 2025 to 2026.

Applications will be accepted until 4pm on Friday, May 10 and an information session will be held online on April 18 at 5.30pm. Details on registration for this online information session and the application form can be found on the Wicklow County Council website.
As the Irish screen star celebrates her 30th birthday, we look back at some of her top films, from Atonement to Hanna and Mary, Queen of Scots

When Saoirse Ronan was 10 years old, she made her first media appearance  although the world was not yet familiar with her name. Appearing on the late Gerry Ryans radio show in a bid to win a trip to Florida for her family, the audio clip, which was unearthed when she was a guest on The Late Late Show in 2019, displayed her abundant talent for performing as she breathlessly pleaded for the holiday in the guise of the Gingerbread Man from Shrek. Ive never had a holiday!, she squeakily beseeched a bemused Ryan. She won the contest.
Our fashion editor rounds up the latest style news and fashion trends

'Midnight in Bloom' crepe de chine cape, 795, and silk twill dress, 550, made to order from Eadach by Sara O'Neill. Photo: Sasko Lazarov

The cut and thrust of fashion retail is never easy. There has been so much talk about big online businesses closing so it is very nice to be able to acknowledge new stores when they open, and when it is a wholly Irish-owned boutique, then better again.

Mairead Byrne has opened the doors of her New Chapter boutique in Naas, Co Kildare, with an impressive line-up of brands. They include two of my favourite Australian designers, Rachel Gilbert and Rebecca Vallance, but she also stocks another Aussie brand, Lidee, which is exclusive to her in Ireland.

Rachel Gilbert's 'Celia' dress, 850, New Chapter, Naas, Co Kildare

Lidee does pleats and colour in a very feminine way, and for anyone travelling abroad to an event this summer, I have to say, these pleated looks pack like a dream and then leap into immediate service, so worth taking a look.

Two other Irish brands I had not seen before in Ireland are ALC, which is from America, and Lovebirds, from India, which does stunning tops and dresses.

A businesswoman with a love of fashion, I met Mairead at the opening night, where she told me she always had the ambition to open a store of her own. It finally happened after she met Brazilian-born stylist Eider Leite and fashion buyer Aimee Hazeldine, and the trios shared passions and distinctive skills drove the opening of the new store.

Lovebirds dress, 435, New Chapter, Naas

Naas has become such a destination town for fashion, and Im quite sure the fact that New Chapters is open seven days a week will appeal to potential customers nationwide.

It has accessories such as Veja footwear to go with the Frame, Agolde and Rag & Bone denims, sunglasses by Le Specs, and gift options include my favourite, Assouline books. newchapter.ie

Looking east

Irish flags will be flying in Hainan in China this weekend as six designers and craftspeople take part in an important international trade expo.

They are on a special mission to the China International Consumer Products Expo, organised and supported by the Embassy of Ireland in Beijing.

Ireland is the Country of Honour at this years expo, which runs from today until April 18, and it ranks as one of the most important trade fairs in China, designed to facilitate access to the Chinese market for quality global brands.

The group who travelled include founder of AndTate Sharon Hoey, Sara ONeill of Eadach, Faye Rochford of FeRi, and Christine Murphy of Urban Aran, all members of the Council of Irish Fashion Designers. They are joined by Designer & Craft Council Ireland members Anna Guerin of coat and blazer range The Landskein and also Celtic Tweeds from Balbriggan, Co Dublin.

The Irish delegation will take part in an international fashion show, exhibit at the Irish Pavilion at the expo and will have opportunities to meet buyers and media.

'Midnight in Bloom' crepe de chine cape, 795, and silk twill dress, 550, made to order from Eadach by Sara O'Neill. Photo: Sasko Lazarov

Among the looks Sara will be showing are her Midnight in Bloom crepe de chine cape (795) and silk twill dress (550), which Dearbhla Walsh, director of Bad Sisters, chose to wear at the Emmys in January. Sara will also be showing her new two-sided bomber jackets in prints including Roisin Dubh and Morrigan.

Meanwhile, Faye is bringing pieces from her FeRi SS24 Aqua collection, which has a nostalgic pool-side energy reminiscent of Palm Springs in the 1970s.

'Erin' silk dress, 460, and 'Niamh' jumpsuit in cotton canvas, 340, feri.ie. Photo: Johnny McMillan

Faye drew inspiration from David Hockneys series of swimming pool paintings, and the colour palette features blues from poolside turquoise to royal and oceanic, candy pinks and leafy greens.

Watch out for her pop-up in Wexford town from April 26 to May 9. Details on feri.ie.

Vintage on Leeside

Miss Daisy Blue is hosting a sale at Corks River Lee Hotel this weekend. Breda Caseys sales are famous in vintage circles, a fine opportunity to discover preloved gems across the decades.

Miss Daisy Blue shop on Saint Patrick's Quay, Cork

Her spring warehouse clearance will include rails with pieces starting at 10 and there will also be some stunning bridal wear, with pieces dating from the 1930s to 1980s. Sale times on Saturday are 10am-6pm and from 10am-4pm on Sunday.

If you cannot make it this weekend, Breda has a store on St Patricks Quay in Cork, which is over the bridge at the end of Panna (Patrick Street). For times of opening and to book an appointment, you can direct message her on Instagram (@missdaisyblue).

By the way, on the subject of vintage and giving preloved pieces a little tender loving care, I asked Breda if she had any advice. You sometimes hear about people spraying old clothes with vodka to remove smells but Breda is a big believer in giving clothes a good airing, so out onto the clothes line with them  and do double-peg them if the weather is anything as windy as last weekend. missdaisyblue.com
Nasa has been asked to help out as a new search for the Loch Ness Monster is set to get under way.
India-ASEAN Trade Pact: Tariff Anomalies on Goods to be Reviewed

India has begun reviewing its trade agreement with the ASEAN bloc to reassess products where taxes on input items are greater than the finished goods.

India is preparing for a comprehensive review with the 10-member ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) grouping to identify and correct several anomalies that have undermined its domestic manufacturing sector. According to media reports, India wants to examine alleged discrepancies in import duties, rules of origin, and non-tariff barriers.

Meanwhile, Indias Ministry of Commerce and Industry has reached out to relevant industry stakeholders to submit their feedback on products that are in a disadvantageous position due to the inverted duty structure.

An inverted duty structure on certain items, like ferro alloys, aluminum, copper pipes and tubes, textile staple fibers, and several chemical preparations, puts the Indian industry at a disadvantage. As a result, its important to evaluate inverted duty systems in free trade agreements (FTA) particularly if the FTA accounts for a large portion of all imports.

Review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement

The review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is expected to facilitate the expansion of trade between India and ASEAN in a balanced and sustainable manner.

The AITIGA was signed in 2009. In September 2022, both sides tasked the AITIGA Joint Committee to undertake the review with the aim of making the agreement more trade enabling and mutually beneficial.

Subsequently, a total of eight sub-committees have been constituted to undertake negotiations on different policy areas related to the AITIGA agreement.

In 2023, India and the ASEAN countries agreed to review their free trade pact for goods and address the asymmetry in bilateral trade by 2025.

India-ASEAN trade reportedly grew to US$131.58 billion in 202223.

Deepening trade ties with ASEAN

India is seeking to strengthen its trade relations with ASEAN countries. Amid the ongoing pact review, it has reportedly agreed on the modalities of the overall review process of the pact. One of the concerns for India is that non-ASEAN countries are re-routing exports through ASEAN countries to avoid taxation burdens.

Timeline ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) came into force on January 1, 2010

India-ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, signed on August 13, 2009

India-ASEAN Agreement on Trade in Services, ratified July 1, 2015.

India-ASEAN Agreement on Investment, ratified on July 1, 2015

India-Thailand FTA, signed on October 9, 2003  Early Harvest Scheme (EHS) implemented on 1.09.2004.

India-Singapore Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) signed on June 29, 2005, and implemented on August 1, 2005.

India-Malaysia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) signed on February 18, 2011, and implemented on July 1, 2011.

India became ASEAN Dialogue Partner in 1996.

Under their trade arrangement, the two parties had decided to remove levies on around 75 percent of commodities and lower tariffs on approximately 15 percent of goods.

However, the 10 ASEAN nations committed to varying rates of tariff removal. While Vietnam promised a lower share of tariff negotiation, Singapore stated it would deliver 100 percent tariff elimination; as a result, the agreement has a diverse duty structure.

Vietnams tariff reduction commitments under AIFTA The ASEANIndia Free Trade Area (AIFTA) was endorsed by Vietnams Prime Minister in 2009, and became effective on June 1, 2010. It mandates scheduled reductions in import taxes, starting in 2010 and concluding in 2024. From December 31, 2021, all tariff lines in Vietnams Normal Track (NT) were reduced to 0 percent under the ASEANIndia Free Trade Area for the 20222027 period. Tariff lines for items on the Sensitive Track (ST) and Highly Sensitive List (HSL) were to see reductions by December 31, 2023. Decree No. 159/2017/ND-CP, issued on December 27, 2017, established Vietnams Special Preferential Import Tariff for the 20182022 period, aligned with the ASEANIndia Free Trade Area and Vietnams export-import nomenclature. This decree facilitated customs statistics, ensuring uniformity and transparency in tax rates. In line with Vietnams export-import nomenclature, Resolution No. 29/NQ-CP, issued on March 8, 2022, approved the ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) 2022. Consequently, Decree No. 122/2022/ND-CP, issued on December 30, 2022, enabled Vietnam to implement special preferential import tariffs under ASEANIndia Free Trade Area for 20222027, covering all member countries. The decree applied to taxpayers, customs administrations, and organizations or individuals involved in import-export activities. To comply with ASEAN customs agreements and the World Customs Organizations standards, the Ministry of Finance converted AITIGA tariffs from AHTN 2017 to AHTN 2022. Imported goods eligible for special preferential import tax rates must meet specific conditions, including origin regulations and documentation requirements. More specifically: Imported good is included in the Special Preferential Import Tariffs promulgated together with the Decree;

The goods are imported into Vietnam from countries that are members of the ASEANIndia Free Trade Area, including goods from the non-tariff zone imported into the domestic market; and

Must meet the regulations on origin of goods (including regulations on direct transport), have a Certificate of Origin (C/O) Form AI or have a document certifying the origin of goods, according to provisions of the AITIGA and prevailing regulations. Decree No. 122/2022/ND-CP inherits provisions from its predecessor, Decree No. 159/2017/ND-CP, for the 20182022 period. Notably, during the implementation of the previous decree, no issues were reported by businesses or customs authorities.

Understanding ASEAN ties with India

ASEAN member countries are Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. For India, its Foreign Trade (ASEAN) Division deals with the following issues related to these countries:

Foreign Trade

Trade Promotion

Trade Negotiation and Review

India  ASEAN trade figures

Indias trade with ASEAN countries

2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Export (US$ billion) 30.96 34.20 37.47 31.55 31.49 42.32 44.00 % growth 23.19 10.47 9.56 -15.82 -0.19 34.43 3.95 Import (US$ billion) 40.62 47.13 59.32 55.37 47.42 68.08 87.57 % growth 1.77 16.04 25.86 -6.66 -14.36 43.57 28.64 Total (US$ billion) 71.58 81.34 96.80 86.92 78.90 110.4 131.57 Trade balance (US$ billion) -9.66 -12.93 -21.85 -23.82 -15.93 -25.76 43.57

Data Source: Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Outlook

As per trade experts in India, it may be feasible to correct these differences under AITIGA within the annual budgetary processes for imports under the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) principle.

However, correcting such tariff imbalances may prove to be more difficult to navigate with the respective foreign trade agreements with each country. For now, while the final product may be imported duty-free under an FTA, necessary raw materials may need to be procured from non-FTA nations at higher MFN duties.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Tech major Apple has warned users in India and 91 other nations that their iPhone might have been potentially attacked by ' mercenary spyware '.

However, the tech company has not attributed the attacks to any stakeholder.

The threat notification emails were sent at around 12.30 am IST on Thursday (April 11) to impacted users in India. It is unclear how many people have received the threat notification from Apple. The email also mentions the NSO-Groups Pegasus spyware, saying tools like those are being used to target people on an ongoing basis globally, reported The Indian Express.

ALERT: Apple detected a targeted mercenary spyware attack against your iPhone, reads the subject line of the threat notification, a copy of which has been seen by the Indian newspaper.

Apple detected that you are being targeted by a mercenary spyware attack that is trying to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID -xxx-. This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are or what you do. Although its never possible to achieve absolute certainty when detecting such attacks, Apple has high confidence in this warning  please take it seriously, the notification email added.

Mercenary spyware attacks, such as those using Pegasus from the NSO Group, are exceptionally rare and vastly more sophisticated than regular cybercriminal activity or consumer malware. These attacks cost millions of dollars and are individually deployed against a very small number of people, but the targeting is ongoing and global, Apple said in its threat notification.

Also Read: iPhone 16 leak: It is rumoured to come in multiple new colours with big updates in battery

In the support page, Apple has mentioned ways to tackle the problem.

"Lockdown Mode is an extreme, optional protection for iPhone, iPad and Mac (running iOS 16, iPadOS 16.1 or macOS 13, or later) that should be used only if you believe you may be targeted by a highly sophisticated cyberattack, such as by a private company developing state-sponsored mercenary spyware," read a guideline issued by the company in its support page titled 'Harden your devices against mercenary spyware with Lockdown Mode'.
Narendra Modi greets Maldives on Eid. Photo Courtesy: PIB

On the auspicious occasion of Eid Al Fitr, Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to His Excellency President of Maldives Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the Government & the people of the Republic of Maldives, an official release shared by the Indian Commission in Maldives posted on X said.

On the auspicious occasion of Eid-Al-Fitr, Hon'ble Prime Minister of India  @NarendraModi extended warm greetings to His Excellency President of Maldives Dr. @MMuizzu, the Government & the people of the Republic of Maldives .



The full PR is here: @IndianDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/6TGwGKDalc  India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) April 10, 2024

Prime Minister further conveyed that as we celebrate Eid Al Fitr with traditional fervour, people across the world are reminded of the values of compassion, brotherhood, and togetherness, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world that we all aspire for," the message said.

Maldives to host roadshow in India

In an attempt to reinstate interest in Indian tourists, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has unveiled plans of hosting roadshows in several cities.

MATATO engaged in discussions with India's High Commissioner in the Maldives, Munu Mahawar, to explore ways to strengthen travel and tourism ties between the two nations. According to statistics from the Maldives Ministry of Tourism, as of April 10, India ranks sixth in tourist arrivals to the Maldives, with 37,417 visitors recorded this year, reported Outlook Traveller.

Strained relationship between India and Maldives

Recently, Indians have expressed anger against Maldivian authorities on social media after its Minister Mariyam Shiunas disparaging comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "clown" and "puppet" in posts on X, which have since been deleted.

These tweets were removed following criticism and backlash on the micro-blogging site.

Other Maldivian officials, including another minister named Zahid Rameez, also mocked Prime Minister Modi's visit to Lakshadweep after the photos garnered significant attention on social media as many drew comparisons between Modi's visit and the Maldives.

Mohamed Muizzu upped the anti-India rhetoric last month and reportedly set May 10 deadline for Indian military personnel to leave the Indian Ocean archipelago.
Photo courtesy: Facebook/Rameshwaram Cafe

New Delhi/Kolkata/IBNS: The arrest of two accused in the Rameshwaram cafe blast case from West Bengal by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has triggered a slugfest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Trinamool Congress (TMC).

BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya has accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of making the state a "safe haven for terrorists".

Malviya posted on X, "NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka.

"West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists."

NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka.



West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe  Amit Malviya (  ) (@amitmalviya) April 12, 2024

Rebutting Malviya's claim, West Bengal Police stated the two accused- Abdul Mateen Taha and Musavir Hussain Sazib- were arrested in a joint operation by police and the central intelligence agencies.

West Bengal Police posted on X, "Falsehood at its worst! Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies."

"The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities."

The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies.



West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities. (2/2)  West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) April 12, 2024

In a counter, Malviya said, " Who is the Chief Minister and Home Minister of West Bengal? Has Mamata Banerjee resigned or too incompetent to defend her poor track record on law and order? Every time she has no answers, which is often, she hides behind

@WBPolice."

Who is the Chief Minister and Home Minister of West Bengal? Has Mamata Banerjee resigned or too incompetent to defend her poor track record on law and order? Every time she has no answers, which is often, she hides behind @WBPolice. https://t.co/XtQPfbB3bW  Amit Malviya (  ) (@amitmalviya) April 12, 2024

Responding to Malviya's comments, TMC leader Kunal Ghosh posted on X, "Well done @WBPolice in connection with the Bengaluru-cafe blast arrest. Even @NIA_India has acknowledged it in their statements. Any anti-forces should be strictly dealt with.

"But let me ask to @BJP4India and their minions - where is this arrests made from? KANTHI We all know which family and BJP's main leader runs illegal activities from Contai. I urge the State agencies to investigate into this matter to find out that FAMILY's links in providing shelter to ANTI-FORCES!"

Well done @WBPolice in connection with the Bengaluru-cafe blast arrest. Even @NIA_India has acknowledged it in their statements. Any anti-forces should be strictly dealt with.



But let me ask to @BJP4India and their minions - where is this arrests made from? KANTHI

We all know  Kunal Ghosh (@KunalGhoshAgain) April 12, 2024

The NIA last month arrested Chikkamagaluru resident Muzammil Shareef, who had reportedly supplied logistics to the main accused.

CCTV camera records explosion at Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe. #RameshwaramCafeBlast pic.twitter.com/iBb5byFjKX  India Blooms (@indiablooms) March 1, 2024

Nine people were injured in a bomb explosion that rocked a popular Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru's Kundalahalli on March 1.

The blast was caught on CCTV. The police are trying to find out those responsible behind the IED explosion at The Rameshwaram Cafe.

The police have filed an FIR under the anti-terror law Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Explosive Substances Act.
Photo courtesy: Facebook/K Kavitha

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Leader and MLC K Kavitha has been sent to three-day CBI custody by a Delhi Court in the Excise Policy case on Friday.

Special Judge Kaweri Baweja after hearing arguments on behalf of CBI and Defence Counsel passed the order remanding Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15.

K Kavitha, an MLC in Telangana and daughter of former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, had been arrested by ED in a money laundering case linked to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam on March 15.

Kavitha is in the judicial custody at Tihar jail after her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). CBI officials after obtaining permission from a Special Court had questioned Kavitha inside the jail.

Counsel for CBI submitted before the court that Kavitha was evasive in her replies and not cooperating with the Investigating Agency.

Te Investigating Agency submitted that on the basis of statements, its indicates the involvement of Kavitha's role in the scam and therefore five days CBI custody is required to unearth the conspiracy.

The CBI alleged that she gave the money to Vijay Nair who is a close aide of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Kavitha opposed the plea of CBI by submitting that CBI is asking wrong and same old questions.

Nitesh Rana, Counsel for Kavitha accused the CBI of violating Kavitha's fundamental rights by saying the arrest is illegal.

(With UNI inputs)
MBABANE - Children of a former employee of a sugar company are suing government for E10 million.

According to the siblings, their father, Mandla Solomon Maziya, died after he was taken to the police station by members of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), based in Simunye. However, the police are alleged to have said tests were conducted on Solomon on December 22, 2020, and he was found to have died of COVID-19.

He was suspected of having a hand in the disappearance of bags of sugar at his workplace.

Plaintiffs in the matter are Maphevu Maziya, who is representing three minor children of Solomon. The children are Nkosiyazi Maziya, Majahonkhe Maziya and Sibusiso Maziya. In their particulars of claim, the siblings submitted that on December 11, 2020, members of the REPS from the Simunye Police Station arrested their father as he was suspected in the disappearance of sugar bags at his workplace, which sugar was suspected to have been stolen.

Particulars

As per the particulars of claim, one of Mandlas relative alleged that, on the day in question, he happened to be at the Simunye Police Station and he saw the deceased, who informed him that he was going to call him later to update him on the matter. The plaintiffs narrated to the court that on December 12, 2020, members of the REPS, led by police officers who identified themselves as Desk Officer Motsa and Sergeant Myeni, arrived at the deceaseds home and found one Bongani Myeni.

The police informed Myeni that Mandla died while under investigation but they were, however, not clear on the cause of death as they were evasive on same, alleged the plaintiff. The family members submitted that on December 21, 2020, they met with the police to get answers on the untimely demise of Mandla and again, the law enforcers could not give clear answers, save to admit that he died at their hands.

Later, the police then lying suggested that the deceased might have died of COVID-19-related complications. However, on December 22, 2020, a test was conducted on the deceased and was found to have been COVID-19 negative per certificate that was issued on December 29, 2020. The deceased was then buried on January 3, 2021, reads part of the particulars of claim. It was the plaintiffs argument that members of REPS wrongfully and negligently killed Mandla between December 11 and 12, 2020 and it was unclear how they killed him.

Constitution

The siblings argued that the conduct of the police officers in allegedly killing the deceased while in custody was in breach not only of the Police Act, but fundamentally a breach of Section 14(2) of the Constitution. The police according to the siblings allegedly behaved in a manner thta failed to respect their obligations under the Bill of Rights. It was the plaintiffs contention that at all material times, the members of REPS were acting within the course and scope of their duty as police officers.

During his lifetime , the deceased had a legal duty and contributed to the plaintiffs maintenance and upkeep. The plaintiff depended on the deceased for their livelihood , argued the sibling. The court was informed that plaintiffs were indigent, some minors and had no other source of support and maintenance.

According to the plaintiffs, had Mandla not been killed he would have been legally obliged to continue to support them until they completed school and/or attain the maturity age. They argued that the deceased had a right to life as guaranteed and protected under Section 15 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini. The matter is still pending in court and appearing for the plaintiff is Human Rights Lawyer Sibusiso Nhlabatsi.
In image Tehran's aerial view/ courtesy: Pixabay

New Delhi/IBNS: The Centre Friday advised citizens to avoid travelling to Iran and Israel until further notice given the "prevailing situation in the region".

The advisory from the foreign ministry came amid Iran's threats to retaliate against a suspected Israeli airstrike on its embassy in Syria this month.

In the wake of the threat, the US and Russia have issued similar travel advisories for their staff and citizens in the region.

The foreign ministry advised its citizens in the two countries to observe "utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum".

It is feared that retaliation by Iran can widen the six-month-old conflict between Iran-backed Hamas militants and Israel in Gaza.
Videograb of Sanjay Singh with Akhilesh Yadav during PC/ courtesy: X/Samajawadi Party

Lucknow/IBNS: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Friday extended "unconditional support" to the Samajwadi Party and other INDIA bloc alliance members for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

SP president Akhilesh Yadav Friday announced that even though AAP is not contesting any seats in UP, it will provide complete, unconditional support to the opposition bloc.

Yadav informed that he had a telephonic conversation with Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, and extended his support to AAP.

"AAP will fully support the INDIA bloc candidates in Uttar Pradesh. What our role will be and how we will be involved in the campaign will be decided after holding talks with the Congress leadership involved in the campaigning. We will fully support the Samajwadi Party candidates," AAP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh announced during the joint press conference.

Exuding confidence that the INDIA bloc will win the elections, Singh said that every worker and elected representative of his party will work for the SP candidates.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the arrest of elected chief ministers, Singh said, "If any politician is winning, he would not indulge in such tactics and tricks as being done by the PM of putting opponents in jail by framing fake cases, it means lack of confidence at election time."

Speaking to the media, Akhilesh Yadav said India has been defamed internationally following the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal and other opposition politicians.

"These elections are not taking place in normal circumstances. The entire world is observing us right now. Addressing a rally in Delhi in support of Kejriwal, I said that India has been defamed internationally. People are talking about how elected people, leaders of states, are being treated in such a manner. The institutions which should be giving us justice are being interfered with, said Yadav.
In frame: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak | Photo courtesy: Facebook/Rishi Sunak

London/IBNS: The United Kingdom has hiked the family visa income requirement by 55 percent in a bid to control the legal migration to the country.

After the new measure taken by the Rishi Sunak government, the minimum income required to sponsor someone coming to the UK on a family visa increased from 18,600 to 29,000 effective from April 11.

The government has also revealed its plan to increase the income requirement further two times more by 2025. It plans to increase to 38,700 to meet the salary threshold as per the Skilled Worker visa.

The new step comes after the UK tightened the student visa route in May 2023.

Commenting on the new measure, UK Home Secretary James Cleverly said, "We have reached a tipping point with mass migration. There is no simple solution or easy decision which cuts numbers to levels acceptable to the British people.

"Whether it was words unsupported by action, unfounded optimism or just plain wishful thinking that migration would fall on its own, indifference of any kind is never going to work - only determined action, backed by strong resolve, will deliver needed change."

The government has made it clear that "family life cannot be established in the UK at the expense of taxpayers, and migrants joining their family must integrate into society and play a full part in British life".

"The governments ambition for a high-skill, high-wage economy cannot rely on mass migration, and measures introduced as part of the package will protect British workers, encourage business to invest in, and recruit, workers domestically, while prioritising only the very best talent from abroad," the UK Home Office said.
Photo Courtesy: Naftali Bennett X page

ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, has named Avi Wigderson as recipient of the 2023 ACM A.M. Turing Award for foundational contributions to the theory of computation, including reshaping our understanding of the role of randomness in computation, and for his decades of intellectual leadership in theoretical computer science.

Wigderson is the Herbert H. Maass Professor in the School of Mathematics at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, read the website of ACM A.M. Turing Award.

He has been a leading figure in areas including computational complexity theory, algorithms and optimization, randomness and cryptography, parallel and distributed computation, combinatorics, and graph theory, as well as connections between theoretical computer science and mathematics and science.

The ACM A.M. Turing Award, often referred to as the Nobel Prize of Computing, carries a $1 million prize with financial support provided by Google, Inc. The award is named for Alan M. Turing, the British mathematician who articulated the mathematical foundations of computing.

What is Theoretical Computer Science?

Theoretical computer science is concerned with the mathematical underpinnings of the field. It poses questions such as Is this problem solvable through computation? or If this problem is solvable through computation, how much time and other resources will be required?

Theoretical computer science also explores the design of efficient algorithms. Every computing technology that touches our lives is made possible by algorithms. Understanding the principles that make for powerful and efficient algorithms deepens our understanding not only of computer science, but also the laws of nature. While theoretical computer science is known as a field that presents exciting intellectual challenges and is often not directly concerned with improving the practical applications of computing, research breakthroughs in this discipline have led to advances in almost every area of the fieldfrom cryptography and computational biology to network design, machine learning, and quantum computing.

Why is Randomness Important?

Fundamentally, computers are deterministic systems; the set of instructions of an algorithm applied to any given input uniquely determines its computation and, in particular, its output. In other words, the deterministic algorithm is following a predictable pattern. Randomness, by contrast, lacks a well-defined pattern, or predictability in events or outcomes. Because the world we live in seems full of random events (weather systems, biological and quantum phenomena, etc.), computer scientists have enriched algorithms by allowing them to make random choices in the course of their computation, in the hope of improving their efficiency. And indeed, many problems for which no efficient deterministic algorithm was known have been solved efficiently by probabilistic algorithms, albeit with some small probability of error (that can be efficiently reduced). But is randomness essential, or can it be removed? And what is the quality of randomness needed for the success of probabilistic algorithms?

These, and many other fundamental questions lie at the heart of understanding randomness and pseudorandomness in computation. An improved understanding of the dynamics of randomness in computation can lead us to develop better algorithms as well as deepen our understanding of the nature of computation itself.

Wigdersons Contributions

A leader in theoretical computer science research for four decades, Wigderson has made foundational contributions to the understanding of the role of randomness and pseudorandomness in computation.

Computer scientists have discovered a remarkable connection between randomness and computational difficulty (i.e., identifying natural problems that have no efficient algorithms). Working with colleagues, Wigderson authored a highly influential series of works on trading hardness for randomness. They proved that, under standard and widely believed computational assumptions, every probabilistic polynomial time algorithm can be efficiently derandomized (namely, made fully deterministic). In other words, randomness is not necessary for efficient computation. This sequence of works revolutionized our understanding of the role of randomness in computation, and the way we think about randomness. This series of influential papers include the following three:

Hardness vs. Randomness (Co-authored with Noam Nisan). Among other findings, this paper introduced a new type of pseudorandom generator, and proved that efficient deterministic simulation of randomized algorithms is possible under much weaker assumptions than previously known.

BPP Has Subexponential Time Simulations Unless EXPTIME has Publishable Proofs (Co-authored with Laszlo Babai, Lance Fortnow, and Noam Nisan).This paper used `hardness amplification to demonstrate that bounded-error probabilistic polynomial time (BPP) can be simulated in subexponential time for infinitely many input lengths under weaker assumptions.

P = BPP if E Requires Exponential Circuits: Derandomizing the XOR Lemma (Co-authored with Russell Impagliazzo). This paper introduces a stronger pseudo-random generator with essentially optimal hardness vs randomness trade-offs.

Importantly, the impact of these three papers by Wigderson goes far beyond the areas of randomness and derandomization. Ideas from these papers were subsequently used in many areas of theoretical computer science and led to impactful papers by several leading figures in the field.

Still working within the broad area of randomness in computation, in papers with Omer Reingold, Salil Vadhan, and Michael Capalbo, Wigderson gave the first efficient combinatorial constructions of expander graphs, which are sparse graphs that have strong connectivity properties. They have many important applications in both mathematics and theoretical computer science.

Outside of his work in randomness, Wigderson has been an intellectual leader in several other areas of theoretical computer science, including multi-prover interactive proofs, cryptography, and circuit complexity.

Mentoring

In addition to his groundbreaking technical contributions, Wigderson is recognized as an esteemed mentor and colleague who has advised countless young researchers. His vast knowledge and unrivaled technical proficiencycoupled with his friendliness, enthusiasm, and generosityhave attracted many of the best young minds to pursue careers in theoretical computer science.

Its important to point out that Avi Wigderson also received the Abel Prize, which is considered the most important honor for lifetime achievements in the field of mathematics, explained ACM President Yannis Ioannidis. Being selected for the ACM A.M. Turing Award is a fitting follow-upas mathematics is foundational to computer science and Wigdersons work has connected a wide range of mathematical sub-areas to theoretical computer science. Wigderson is a towering intellectual force in theoretical computer science, an exciting discipline that attracts some of the most promising young researchers to work on the most difficult challenges. This years Turing Award recognizes Wigdersons specific work on randomness, as well as the indirect but substantial impact he has had on the entire field of theoretical computer science.

"Avi Wigdersons work on randomness and other topics has set the agenda in theoretical computer science for the past three decades, explained Jeff Dean, Senior Vice President, Google. From the earliest days of computer science, researchers have recognized that incorporating randomness was a way to design faster algorithms for a wide range of applications. Efforts to better understand randomness continue to yield important benefits to our field, and Wigderson has opened new horizons in this area. Google also salutes Wigdersons role as a mentor. His colleagues credit him with generating great ideas and research directions, and then motivating a new generation of smart young researchers to work on them. We congratulate Avi Wigderson on receiving the ACM A.M. Turing Awardcomputings highest honour.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett greeted the mathematician for the award and posted on X: " Wow! What amazing news!" "Israeli mathematician, Avi Wigderson, was awarded the 2023 Turing Prize for insights into randomness. Wigderson was born in my hometown of Haifa and completed his undergraduate studies at the city's Technion  Israel Institute of Technology," he said.
In image train of destruction in Gaza/ courtesy: UNI

Israel Friday launched a massive attack on Gaza amid Iran's threat to avenge a strike in Syria this month that killed two Iranian generals.

As ceasefire talks aiming to pause the six-month-old war dragged on, Iran has threatened to launch an attack on Israel spurring India, the US, and France to recommend its citizens avoid travelling to the region.

According to reports, Israel dropped missiles and shells throughout the night.

Israel last week pulled its troops from the devastated city of Khan Yunis after months of fighting.

However, officials said they were preparing for operations against Hamas operatives in Rafah, near the Egyptian border.

Authorities in the Hamas-ruled coastal Palestinian territory on Friday reported dozens of new air strikes in Gaza's central region.

The Hamas media office said 25 people were taken to hospital in Deir al-Balah city "as a result of an air strike on a house of the al-Tabatibi family."
Photo Courtesy: NCRI-FAC@iran_policy/X page

Formed by the IRGC after the Syrian civil war began, the Zainebiyoun Brigade, also known as Liwa Zainebiyoun, mobilized Pakistani Shiite militants who were then sent to fight forces opposed to Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad, a close ally of Iran and Russia, reported Iran International.

The regime has been actively involved in the Syrian conflict since 2013.

To help maintain Assads rule, Iran dispatched its other proxies to Syria as well, including Hezbollah, Iraqs Nujaba Movement, and also the Fatemiyoun Division, which was composed of Afghan Shiite fighters, Iran International reported.

Iranian officials and state media have often credited former IRGC commander Qassem Soleimani as the man behind launching, training and funding all these militant groups.

In a US-drone attack, Soleimani was killed in 2020 in Baghdad.

Pakistan's fresh move may further escalate tension between Tehran and Islamabad.

Relationship touched a low point in January when the IRGC attacked positions in Pakistan in what it called was an attack on terrorisrts.

In a retaliatory attack, Pakistan targeted locations in southeastern Iran.
Canadas recent accusations of Indian interference in their federal elections have been met with a firm rebuttal from its own officials. In a surprising turn of events, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has failed to substantiate claims that India played a role in influencing Canadas democratic processes.

Last Thursday, CSIS made bold assertions, alleging that both Indian and Pakistani governments had attempted to sway Canadas federal elections in 2019 and 2021, which ultimately led to Justin Trudeaus ascension to power.

However, an investigative panel composed of senior Canadian officials, tasked with monitoring the 2021 polls, has debunked these claims. According to their findings, there was no indication of any Indian involvement in influencing the national elections.

I do not believe during the 2021 election that we saw evidence of the Government of India using those tools in the campaign, affirmed a member of the poll-monitoring panel.

Furthermore, the Canadian news outlet Globe and Mails senior parliamentary reporter, Steven Chase, reinforced this stance, highlighting that the panel overseeing the 2021 elections was not apprised of any potential foreign interference activities originating from India.

This revelation emerged during the testimony of officials from the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol before the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions, chaired by Justice Marie-Josee Hogue.

Contrary to the allegations against India, the agency pointed fingers at China, citing evidence of Chinese interference in both the 2019 and 2021 Canadian elections.

The firmest confirmation of suspected Chinese meddling in Canadian politics emerged during an official probe on Monday, shedding light on a clandestine interference that had remained largely concealed.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus Liberal Party secured victory in both the 2019 and 2021 elections. However, mounting concerns over potential foreign influence prompted Trudeau to establish a commission to investigate allegations of interference. The commission, convened to address worries raised by opposition legislators and media reports, uncovered a slide presentation displaying an excerpt from a February 2023 CSIS briefing.

The slide unequivocally stated, We know that the PRC (Peoples Republic of China) clandestinely and deceptively interfered in both the 2019 and 2021 elections. The interference tactics were described as pragmatic, focusing primarily on bolstering individuals and groups deemed pro-PRC or neutral on issues aligned with the Chinese governments interests.

Critics, including intelligence analysts and members of the Conservative Party, argue that Trudeaus administration has failed to sufficiently address the issue of Chinese interference. Trudeau himself is slated to provide testimony to the commission on Wednesday, facing scrutiny over his governments response to foreign meddling.

The Conservative Party, known for its tougher stance on China compared to the Liberals, campaigned in 2021 against Beijings human rights abuses, particularly its treatment of the Uyghur minority, and pledged to exclude Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei from Canadas 5G network.

With approximately 1.7 million people of Chinese descent constituting nearly 5% of Canadas population, the ramifications of foreign interference resonate deeply within the countrys diverse communities.

(Photo and text courtesy: Khalsavox.com)
Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) has asked the government to ban Chinese-made electric vehicles to protect Ohio autoworkers, and to combat the economic and national security threats posed by Chinese automakers.

In a letter to President Biden, the senator warned that Chinese cars, made by companies controlled and subsidized by the Chinese Communist Party, present an existential threat to the American auto industry, and that tariffs alone are insufficient to stop a government-orchestrated attack on an entire sector of our economy.

Chinese electric vehicles are an existential threat to the American auto industry. Ohio knows all too well how China illegally subsidizes its companies, putting our workers out of jobs and undermining entire industries, from steel to solar manufacturing. We cannot allow China to bring its government-backed cheating to the American auto industry. The U.S. must ban Chinese electric vehicles now, and stop a flood of Chinese government-subsidized cars that threaten Ohio auto jobs, and our national and economic security, said Brown as quoted by a statement released by him.

Brown warned in the letter that the level of government subsidization in the Chinese auto industry would make it impossible for American automakers and autoworkers to compete on a level playing field, and would also decimate the United Autoworkers and the unions ability to raise wages and benefits for workers across the auto sector. Chinese electric vehicles also pose a national security risk, given the technology involved in EVs and the potential for the Chinese government to gain access to large amounts of data through these cars.

Brown introduced the bipartisan Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act to strengthen U.S. trade remedy laws and ensure they remain effective tools to fight back against unfair trade practices and protect American workers.

In January Brown called on the Biden Administration to increase tariffs on Chinese solar imports threatening American solar manufacturing jobs, including in Ohio at companies like First Solar in Toledo.

In May of 2023, Brown led his Senate colleagues in voting to reinstate duties on illegally dumped Chinese solar panels.

Brown led the successful opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which had weaker auto rules of origin than NAFTA and would have been devastating for the Ohio industry, the statement said.
The Tamil romantic drama film "Romeo," starring the dynamic duo Vijay Antony and Mirnalini Ravi, has made its theatrical debut.

Directed by newcomer Vinayak Vaithianathan, the film follows the story of a newly married couple, with the wife reluctantly wed by her parents.

All Details About Romeo OTT Release:

Poster Of Tamil Film Romeo/X

When To Watch The Tamil Film "Romeo"?

Vijay Antony, known for his recent role in "Raththam," joins forces with Mirnalini Ravi, acclaimed for her performance in "Super Deluxe," to bring this poignant tale to life. "Romeo" hit the big screens on April 11, coinciding with the festive occasion of Eid. While audiences are currently flocking to cinemas, the film is set to make its digital premiere, but the streaming date has yet to be disclosed.

Where To Watch The Tamil Film "Romeo"?

According to media reports, the film is poised to make its digital premiere on Prime Video after a after a post-theatrical run.

All About The Storylie Of Romeo:

In "Romeo," Vijay Antony portrays Arivu, a compassionate and gentle soul returning from Malaysia, who falls deeply in love with Mirnalini's character, Leela, an aspiring actress.

Despite Leela's initial reluctance, their union is sealed in marriage, leading to a complex journey of love, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. As the narrative unfolds, audiences are drawn into the emotional rollercoaster of whether Leela will fulfill her acting ambitions and reconcile with Arivu.

Penned and directed by Vinayak Vaithianathan, "Romeo" boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Yogi Babu, VTV Ganesh, Ilavarasu, Thalaivasal Vijay, Sudha, and Sreeja Ravi. The film is produced under the banner of Vijay Antony Film Corporation, with cinematography by Farook J Basha and music by Barath Dhanasekar.

Notably, Vijay Antony also lends his expertise as the film's editor, a role he has previously undertaken in projects such as "Annadurai" and "Thimiru Pudichavan."

Critical reception for "Romeo" has been varied, with some lauding the performances of the lead actors while others have criticised its reliance on familiar tropes reminiscent of films like "Kaavalan" and "Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi." Nevertheless, anticipation is high for its digital release, which promises audiences an engaging romantic drama experience from the comfort of their homes.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


Is KGF actor Yash playing Ravana in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana? Well, the cast the crew of the film have not been confirmed yet. The announcement will be made soon. However, it is now confirmed that the KGF actor has turned producer for the trilogy along with Namit Malhotra. The film reportedly stars Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi as Lord Ram and Sita.

Ramayana Producers Yash and Namit Malhotra share exciting details

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After so many years of experience, Namit Malhotra said that he finally feels he is ready to "do justice to the incredible story of Ramayana."

Elaborating on the project, he said, "Our interpretation will be told without compromise and presented in such a way that Indian hearts will swell with pride to see their culture brought to the rest of the world in this way. We are assembling the very best global talent  from our filmmakers, to our stars, to our crews, to our backers and investors  to tell this epic story with the care, attention, and conviction that it deserves. I am incredibly proud of what we are creating, and I cannot wait for the world to experience the very best of Indian culture and storytelling on cinema screens across the globe."

Fan made poster

KGF actor Yash said that he met Namit, who is behind one of the best VFX studios, in LA and his synergy on the vision for Indian cinema aligned perfectly. He also told Variety, "The Ramayana, as a subject, deeply resonates with me and I had an approach in my mind for it. By joining forces to co-produce Ramayana we are bringing together our collective vision and experience to create an Indian film that will ignite excitement and passion in audiences across the world."

For the unversed, Namit Malhotra is the CEO of DNEG a British visual effects, computer animation and stereo conversion studio that has won eight Oscar awards for their contribution to films like Oppenheimer, Inception, Interstellar, Ex Machina, Blade Runner 2049, First Man, Tenet and Dune.

Exciting details about Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana

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Apart from Ranbir Kapoor, it has been confirmed Sunny Deol is also a part of Ramayana. Furthermore, Hollywood icon Hans Zimmer is joining hands with R Rahman to score the music for the film. The VFX company which has worked on movies like Dune and Oppenheimer will work on Ramayana. Here's a list of tentative cast for Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana.

For more news and updates from the world of celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
MBABANE  The ENFRES Department has seven days to submit files of the 2024 firefighters recruitment to the ACC.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) allegedly served the Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (ENFRES) with a letter that the latter is supposed to comply with in terms of Section 11 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act No.3 of 2006. It is on record that ENFRES recruited 100 firefighters and they are currently undergoing a six-month training programme. It has been gathered that the department was served with the letter by the ACC, which is dated April 8, 2024.

Recruits

According to sources, the ACC wants the list of the hired recruits, so that it carries out an investigation into whether all the hired firefighters met all the requirements as per the advertisement, which was also published in print media last year. The sources told this publication that the department was expected to submit all particulars of the recruitment exercise; which include identification (ID) documents and qualifications of the recruits, within seven days from the day of receiving the letter.

The ACC is said to have requested the ENFRES to provide it with the personal files of the trainee firefighters.

Your institution will also be required to provide us with affidavits outlining the provided information and any other information that would be discussed between our investigators and your officers in respect of this investigation, reads part of the letter directed to ENFRES.

Chief Fire Officer Luke Lushaba says he is not aware of the letter purportedly served to ENFRES by the ACC.

Lushaba was contacted to ascertain if the ACC had served the department with the letter requesting particulars of the newly-recruited firefighters. The chief fire officer said he had not come across such a letter. I have not seen a letter such as the one you are talking about, Lushaba said.

Meanwhile, the Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission, Jabu Phakathi, said the commission operated within the confines of the law, which prohibited the disclosure of information or details of any person who was the subject of an enquiry or investigation by the ACC (Section 18 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2006). Therefore, we can neither confirm nor deny if we are investigating the fire recruitment, said Phakathi.

ENFRES conducted a physical fitness test last year November 2023. Initially, over 15 000 emaSwati submitted their applications but later on, over 7 000 took part in the physical fitness test. This publication also reported on 12 aspiring recruits who visited the ENFRES offices in Mbabane, seeking that the recruitment be started afresh or they be employed.

Firefighters

The aggrieved aspiring firefighters are alleged to have visited the ACC and the Civil Service Commission (CSC), among others, to report their concerns. Also, 10 members of the ENFRES Culture Group were not happy with the decision taken by senior officials not to consider them for recruitment. In Parliament, Mbabane East Member of Parliament (MP) Welcome Dlamini challenged the ENFRES to avail a list of the names of the firefighter recruits.
Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a big celebration in the northern Indian state of Punjab and other places in India. It's about the harvest and happens around April 13th or 14th every year. People celebrate because it's the start of a new year based on the sun and also because it's harvest time.



For Sikhs, Baisakhi is extra special. It remembers when the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, founded the Khalsa Panth (a special group) in 1699. Sikhs celebrate by visiting Gurudwara, joining parades, and praying.

But it's not just Sikhs who celebrate. Hindus and others join in too. People wear traditional clothes, dance, and sing to celebrate the harvest. In some places, people even go into the Ganges River to clean themselves of sins.

Food is a most important part of Baisakhi celebrations. People eat special dishes. The festival is also a time for people to come together, forget their differences, and feel like they're all one big family.

When is Baisakhi 2024?

Happy Baisakhi wishes images | Photo: Freepik

In 2024, Baisakhi falls on Saturday, April 13th. Sikhs around the world celebrate by going to Gurudwaras, singing devotional songs, and having big meals with loved ones. There are also parades, dances, and other fun activities to enjoy.



Vaisakhi (Baisakhi) Sankranti Moment 2024

According to Drik Panchang, the Vaisakhi Sankranti Moment is expected at 9:15 PM on the same day preceding Mesha Sankranti a day which is believed to be the beginning of the New Year in most Hindu Solar Calendars.

What is the story behind the Baisakhi celebration?

Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a big celebration in India, mainly in Punjab. But it's famous in other places too, with different names. In Bihar, it's called Vaisakha, in West Bengal, it's "Poila Baisakh" or Bengali New Year, and in Tamil Nadu, it's Puthandu. In Assam, it's Rangoli Bihu. People celebrate it because it's the start of the harvest season, and they're very happy about it.

The story of Baisakhi goes back to 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh formed the Khalsa Panth. This was a group of Sikhs who were ready to fight for what's right and fair. On Baisakhi, Guru Gobind Singh gathered his followers and asked who would join this group. Five people from different backgrounds volunteered. They became the first members and were called Panj Pyare. They were given the name Singh and were also given special items to wear.

This event was important because it brought Sikhs together and gave them a clear identity. Guru Gobind Singh said that after him, the holy book of Sikhs would be their guide forever.

Significance of Baisakhi celebration in Hinduism

Baisakhi is a special day for both Hindus and Sikhs. For Hindus, it's the start of the new year and the beginning of spring. They believe that on this day, Goddess Ganga came down to earth. Many people go to holy rivers like the Ganga, Jhelum, and Kaveri to wash away their sins.

In India, especially in Punjab, Baisakhi is a big celebration. It's not just a festival; it's a symbol of togetherness, bravery, and putting others before oneself. It reminds Sikhs of their important values.

Significance of Baisakhi

Baisakhi, also called Vaisakhi, is a big festival for Sikhs and Hindus in India and beyond. It happens every April 13 or 14 and marks the start of harvest time in Punjab, India.

For Sikhs, Baisakhi is extra special because it remembers when Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa community in 1699. People of all ages celebrate by going to the gurdwara, where they pray and listen to hymns from their holy book. They wear traditional Punjabi clothes, dance to Punjabi music, and enjoy Punjabi food like makki di roti and sarson da saag.

Baisakhi is more than just a harvest festival. It's a time to think about Sikh history and the bravery of their community. Guru Gobind Singh Ji's creation of the Khalsa changed Sikh history, making Baisakhi a time to remember their sacrifices and renew their commitment to living honestly and helping others.

Overall, Baisakhi is a big deal for Sikhs and Hindus, marking the start of harvest and celebrating Sikh history and culture in Punjab, India.

How to celebrate Vaisakhi?

Baisakhi is a special celebration in northern India, especially in Punjab, for Sikh people. It usually happens in April, around the 13th or 14th, to start the harvest time. It's important for Sikhs because it remembers when their 10th guru, Guru Gobind Singh, made the Khalsa group in 1699. This year, it's on April 13, 2024.

During Baisakhi, people get up early, clean themselves, and go to the nearest Sikh temple to pray. They join a big parade, led by Five Beloved Ones, with music, singing, and dancing. People give food and sweets to everyone in the parade.

Food is a big part of Baisakhi, with dishes like Kadhi, Meethe Peeley Chawal, Kesar Phirni, Mango Lassi, and Kada Prasad being enjoyed. There are also cultural things like folk dances, wrestling, and sports.

Best Baisakhi wishes, messages and quotes to share with loved ones

Wishing you a joyful Baisakhi filled with love, laughter, and prosperity!

May the festival of Vaisakhi bring you abundant happiness and success in all your endeavors.

Sending you warm wishes on Baisakhi! May this auspicious occasion fill your life with blessings and joy.

Happy Baisakhi wishes images | Photo: Freepik

Happy Baisakhi! May the new year ahead be filled with health, wealth, and prosperity for you and your family.

On this Baisakhi, let's celebrate the spirit of unity and togetherness among all communities. Happy Vaisakhi 2024!

May the divine blessings of Waheguru be with you on Baisakhi and always. Happy Baisakhi!

Wishing you a harvest of joy and prosperity on the festival of Baisakhi. Have a blessed day!

As we celebrate Baisakhi, let's cherish the rich culture and traditions that bring us together. Happy Baisakhi!

May the holy occasion of Baisakhi fill your life with happiness, peace, and prosperity. Happy Vaisakhi

Sending you heartfelt wishes for a bountiful harvest and a year filled with abundance. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

May the joyous festival of Baisakhi usher in good times and happiness for you and your loved ones. Happy Baisakhi!

On this auspicious day of Baisakhi, may you be blessed with success, happiness, and prosperity. Happy Vaisakhi

Wishing you and your family a prosperous Baisakhi filled with love, laughter, and abundance.

May the cheerful festival of Baisakhi brighten your life with new hopes and aspirations. Happy Baisakhi!

Let's rejoice and celebrate the harvest festival of Baisakhi with gratitude and joy. Happy Vaisakhi to you and your family!

Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
Happy Baisakhi 2024: Baisakhi, also called Vaisakhi, is a big festival in northern India, especially in Punjab. It happens on April 13th or 14th every year and marks the start of the new year and harvest time. Sikhs celebrate it a lot because it's when their tenth guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh, made the Khalsa Panth in 1699. They visit Sikh temples, join parades, and pray with excitement.



In this guide, we'll tell you about Baisakhi 2024 wishes, messages, and statuses, and share inspiring quotes by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. We'll also talk about when Baisakhi is in 2024, its history, its importance, and how to celebrate it with joy and respect.

When is Baisakhi 2024?

Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

Baisakhi is on Saturday, April 13th, 2024. The special time, called Vaisakhi Sankranti Moment, is around 09:15 PM. It's just before Mesha Sankranti, which is the start of the New Year in many Hindu Calendars.



Baisakhi History

Baisakhi is a big festival in the Indian subcontinent, especially for Sikhs. It remembers Guru Gobind Singh forming the Khalsa in 1699. It's also a harvest festival and the Sikh New Year in Punjab. People usually celebrate it on April 13th or 14th every year.

Baisakhi Significance

Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

Baisakhi is important in northern India, especially in Punjab. It marks the start of the new year for Sikhs and is also celebrated by Hindus and others for different reasons.



The festival is important because it remembers Guru Gobind Singh making the Khalsa in 1699. It also celebrates the harvest season, when farmers are happy about their crops and pray for more good years.

People celebrate Baisakhi with music, dance, parades, and sharing food. They go to Sikh temples to pray and get blessings. Baisakhi is a happy time when people come together to celebrate their culture and heritage.

By wishing loved ones on Baisakhi, you show you care about them. It's a chance to make your bond stronger and spread happiness. Baisakhi is a happy time for many cultures. By wishing loved ones, you keep these traditions alive. For those who see Baisakhi as a religious day, wishing loved ones can make their faith stronger.

Wishes, Messages, Quotes, and WhatsApp Status for Happy Baisakhi 2024

As you gear up to celebrate Happy Baisakhi 2024, here are some heartfelt wishes, messages, quotes, and WhatsApp statuses to share with your loved ones:

Baisakhi Wishes:

May Baisakhi fill your home with happiness.

May the spirit of Baisakhi infuse your life with boundless joy and prosperity. Happy Baisakhi!

Wishing you and your loved ones a Baisakhi filled with happiness and abundance. Happy Baisakhi!

May this Baisakhi usher in new beginnings and endless blessings in your life. Happy Baisakhi!

Let's dance and celebrate Baisakhi!

May the divine blessings of Waheguru illuminate your path on this auspicious day of Baisakhi. Happy Baisakhi!

Thankful for the harvest season. Happy Baisakhi!

To all my Sikh brothers and sisters, may this Baisakhi bless you with peace and prosperity. Happy Baisakhi!

Happy Baisakhi to all!

May Baisakhi bring you lots of joy and good times. Happy Baisakhi!

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy Baisakhi full of blessings.

May this Baisakhi bring you new beginnings and lots of happiness.

May Waheguru bless you this Baisakhi. Happy Baisakhi!

Happy Baisakhi to all my Sikh friends.

Baisakhi Messages:

Let's come together to celebrate the spirit of Baisakhi and spread joy to all. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

Let's celebrate Baisakhi together and spread joy.

Baisakhi is a time to embrace the unity of humanity and celebrate the essence of life. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

May the festival of Baisakhi strengthen the bonds of love and friendship in your life. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

Baisakhi is about coming together and celebrating life.

Baisakhi is more than a harvest festival; it's a celebration of life's blessings. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

Let's take a moment to honor the hard work of our farmers this Baisakhi. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

May Baisakhi strengthen our bonds of love and friendship.

Let's appreciate our farmers this Baisakhi.

Happy Baisakhi everyone!

Baisakhi Quotes:

"Baisakhi is a celebration of the spirit of Punjab and the resilience of its people."

"Baisakhi is a celebration of Punjab and its people."

"Let's welcome Baisakhi with open arms and embrace the new opportunities it brings."

"Let's welcome Baisakhi with open arms."

"May the colours of Baisakhi brighten your life with hope and happiness."

"Baisakhi brings hope and happiness."

"Baisakhi is a time to unite and celebrate the spirit of brotherhood."

"Baisakhi is about unity and brotherhood."

"May the blessings of Guru Gobind Singh ji fill your heart with joy on this sacred day of Baisakhi."

"May Guru Gobind Singh's blessings be with you."

Baisakhi WhatsApp Status:

Celebrating the vibrancy of Baisakhi with my dear ones. Happy Baisakhi!

May the warmth of Baisakhi fill your home with love and laughter. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

Let's dance, feast, and make merry this Baisakhi. Happy celebrations!

Welcoming the harvest season with gratitude and joy. Happy Baisakhi 2024!

Baisakhi diyan lakh lakh vadhaiyan! Wishing everyone a joyous Baisakhi!

Baisakhi 2024 - Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

1. I tell the truth; listen to everyone. Only those who have Loved, will realise the Lord

Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

2. "Do not gossip, nor slander, or be spiteful to anyone"



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

3. Egotism is such a terrible disease, he dies, to be reincarnated he continues coming and going.



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

4. The ignorant person is totally blind he does not appreciate the value of the jewel



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

5. It is nearly impossible to be here now when you think there is somewhere else to be.



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

6. The Lord Himself reveals the Path, He Himself is the Doer of deeds.



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

7. Day and night, meditate forever on the Lord.



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

8. The greatest comforts and lasting peace are obtained, when one eradicates selfishness from within.



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

9. He alone is a man who keeps his word: Not that he has one thing in the heart, and another on the tongue.



Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

10. Chidiyan te mein Baaz tudaun, Giddran toh mein sher banaun, Sawa lakh se ek ladaun, Tabe Gobind Singh Naam kahaun.



(Translation: It is when I make sparrows fight hawks, it is when I make lions out of wolves, it is when I make one fight with one hundred thousand that I am called Gobind Singh.)

Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Powerful Quotes, Sayings, Teachings

Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
The lingering water shortage in Bengaluru has become a heated election issue, with some residents have threatening to boycott the Lok Sabha polls if the crisis is not resolved.

At the Royal Lakefront Residency, in JP Nagar, Bengaluru posters were seen warning of a boycott of the Lok Sabha elections, due to the apathy by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) in providing the Cauvery water supply.

TWITTER

Waiting for 21 years

According to Mohini Girish, a resident of Royal Lakefront Residency, they had been waiting for the Cauvery water connection for 21 years.

"We, the residents of RLF Residency layouts (Phase I and I) have decided to boycott the ensuing parliamentary election, scheduled to take place in April 2024 and also subsequent elections in future in case our above grievance has not been met with," the RWA said in a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer.

BCCL

Rs 2 crore for flat, but no water

Amid the continuing water shortage in Bengaluru, the residents of a posh apartment complex in the city recently staged a massive protest and raised slogans against the builder, demanding water.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, residents of Shapoorji Pallonji Parkwest in Central Bengaluru were seen protesting with placards reading 'We want water'.

Protests are starting in residential colonies across Bengaluru due to water shortage.



This is Shapoorji Parkwest, Central Bengaluru. Apartments in this colony cost at least 1Cr. pic.twitter.com/vfmQrUNaGT  Pagan  (@paganhindu) April 8, 2024

According to reports, flats are priced at around Rs 2 crore each at Shapoorji Parkwest.

While acknowledging the difficulties faced by residents, the builder, in a statement said that they were trying their best to assist them.

Sitharaman blames Karnataka government

Last week, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had hit out at the Siddaramaiah government over the water crisis in Bengaluru and alleged that many irrigation and water-related projects and initiatives were halted by the Congress when it came to power in Karnataka last year.

BCCL

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that the government was considering filling up tanks and lakes with treated water in order to charge the groundwater.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Lok Sabha Election 2024: With Lok Sabha elections looming, social media is buzzing with memes and theories to encourage voter turnout. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has joined the trend by sharing a meme featuring scenes from Season 2 of the web series The Family Man.

Screengrab

In the meme, Manoj Bajpayee declines a lunch invitation, accompanied by the caption, #ElectionMeme:  !!   ,    #IVote4Sure #ChunavKaParv #DeshKaGarv #Elections2024 #Memes, which translates to wait a minute!! Today we will vote, tomorrow we will have refreshments.



Another caption adds humour, stating, When your girlfriend asks you for a lunch date on Election Day. Social media users, familiar with Bajpayee's role in The Family Man, are enjoying the reference.

The post has garnered over 11.6k views on X platform and elicited various reactions. One user humorously remarked, Everyone graduated from Meme university. Another user expressed concern about being unable to vote due to college exams, prompting a response from a third user suggesting the Election Commission is relaxed about the matter.

In the landmark 2019 elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a significant victory with 303 seats, while its coalition, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), clinched 352 seats.

As India gears up for the crucial 2024 elections, there's a notable shift in the political landscape. The Indian National Congress, leading a coalition of over two dozen parties known as the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (or "India" for short), emerges as a principal contender.

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Key figures in this alliance include Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, along with siblings Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, carrying forward their father's legacy, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

Voting is scheduled across the country on seven polling days: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. The results are set to be announced on June 4.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.


In a heartwarming tale of family bond, a 98-year-old man shared a reunion that transcends time and distance. After decades apart, he finally embraced his long-lost younger brother in a moment that resonated with joy and emotion.

Their story reminds us of the enduring power of love and the resilience of family ties. Through twists of fate and the passage of years, their connection endured, awaiting the perfect moment to be rekindled.

The reunion, filled with tears of joy, serves as a poignant reminder of the preciousness of every moment we have with our loved ones. It embodies the essence of hope and perseverance, inspiring us to cherish our relationships and never lose faith in the possibility of reconnection.

As the world celebrates this remarkable tale, it serves as a beacon of light amidst the challenges we face, reminding us that love knows no bounds and that miracles can happen when we least expect them.

Get ready to be moved to tears of happiness as you witness this extraordinary reunion unfold.

What Is This Reunion All About?

A 98-year-old man's reunion with his younger brother will bring you to tears of happiness | Image: Instagram

Bhavik Saglani, known as 'Zucker Doctor' on X, shared a touching anecdote about the strong bond between his maternal grandfather and his siblings.



Bhavik posted several photos showing his 98-year-old grandfather alongside his younger brother, who traveled from the United States to India for a heartfelt reunion.

Describing the family dynamics, Bhavik revealed that his grandfather, now 98, and his siblings once formed a close-knit group of 11. Today, only two remain, including his grandfather and one younger brother in his late 80s who made the journey from the US to India to visit.

A 98-year-old man's reunion with his younger brother will bring you to tears of happiness | Image: Instagram

Reflecting on his grandfather's life, Bhavik emphasized the remarkable resilience and perseverance inherent in his family. Born into a large family of 11 siblings, his maternal grandfather's story serves as a testament to enduring familial bonds and the strength found in unity.



He detailed his grandfather's journey from their village in Gujarat to the vibrant city of Ahmedabad during his teenage years for his studies. Later, at the age of 20, he embarked on a new chapter in pre-independence Bombay, now Mumbai, in pursuit of employment, paving the way for his siblings to follow.

In his narrative, Bhavik highlighted the hospitality of his grandparents, noting that anyone arriving in the city would find lodging at their home until they completed their education, married, or secured their residence.

A 98-year-old man's reunion with his younger brother will bring you to tears of happiness | Image: Instagram

Bhavik also reflected on the passing of his maternal grandmother the previous year, underscoring her significant role in nurturing and supporting the family. He shared that she had been a cornerstone of their household, particularly for his grandfather's siblings, including the younger brother who pursued education and work in Bombay.



Now, with only memories to cherish, Bhavik revealed that a photograph of his grandmother remains close to his grandfather's work desk, serving as a poignant reminder of their shared past.

A 98-year-old man's reunion with his younger brother will bring you to tears of happiness | Image: Instagram

At the conclusion, he emphasized the importance of safeguarding and treasuring such narratives within every family. He stressed the significance of tales that encapsulate themes of affection, kinship, support, and unity.



These accounts, he suggested, should be safeguarded not just as records of a family's shared past but also as sources of inspiration and guidance for future generations.

His sentiment underscores the enduring value of these stories in fostering a sense of connection and belonging within the familial circle.

Where Can You See The Post?

You can check out the post on X posted by @DoctorLFC.

My nana and his siblings were a team of 11! Only two of them are still alive. My nana is 98, and one of his younger brothers, who lives in the USA, is in his late 80s. He had come down to India to meet nana recently.



My nana was the 1st from his family to go out of his village pic.twitter.com/m9hRS9YCEf  Zucker Doctor (@DoctorLFC) April 11, 2024

What do you think about it? Do let us know in the comments.



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The challenges and opportunities related to decarbonization and the green transition of shipping dominated the talks held among Minister of Maritime Affairs and Island Policy, Christos government officials and

Stylianidis: Decarbonization of shipping dominates his visit to Oslo -  
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has urged Nigerians to patronise Air Peace and other local airlines flying international routes.

This, Keyamo said, is the only way local airlines can survive stiff competition from foreign carriers.

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Recall that Air Peace, Nigerias flag carrier, commenced its Lagos-London flight services in March.

However, Allen Onyema, Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, lamented that some foreign airlines are conspiring to take his company out of business by underpricing the flight tickets for the Lagos-London route.

READ ALSO: Nigerias Economy Becoming Stable  Bamidele, Majority Senate Leader

Reacting to this, Keyamo said while he cannot make a policy statement on what the Nigerian government will do to support Air Peace, President Bola Ahmed Tinubus administration would continue to assist local entrepreneurs.

The first thing is for Nigerians to fully patronise not only Air Peace but all indigenous airlines on international routes. Before the federal government does anything, let Nigerians patronise him and know that this is our indigenous airline.

As for government, I cannot make any policy statement for the government now because I am a minister. Whatever we can do, we will discuss that behind the scenes. But its wrong for me to make a policy statement now.

As I have said earlier, one of my main goals in office is to help Nigerias domestic airlines grow and improve, supporting President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda, he said in a chat with Cable.
Former Governor of Rivers State, Peter Odili has endorsed Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the political leader of the State.

This is as the rift between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, has no end in sight, over the political structure of the State.

Wike had also referred to former Governors of the State as expired politicians owing to the fact that their political ideologies dont align.

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Meanwhile, Odili who ruled Rivers State between 1999 and 2007, commended the Governor for defending the interests of the people.

According to him, Fubara has attained the position of leadership having secured his electoral victory both through the ballot and the courts.

He spoke on Thursday at the commissioning of a Primary Healthcare Centre donated by his PAMO Foundation in Ndoni.

The ex-Governor warned that if Rivers State sneezes, the entire Nigeria would catch cold, urging Fubara to act with this awareness in all your decision.

READ ALSO: Those Disrespecting Me Have Dug Their Pit  Fubara To Rivers LG Chairmen

According to him, Fubara has made significant strides in critical sectors within his first year in office.

Odili further encouraged the Fubara to maintain this alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his policies to attract Federal Government attention and support to the State.

He said: Thanks for standing up to defend the interest of all Rivers people. We are proud of you. Politics is over; it is now time for governance. You have hit the ground running.

Your government is aligning correctly with President Tinubus government, especially in the area of education agriculture and now health sector.

Our people said I should tell you to stand with the president and align with his positive policies and link the people of Rivers State with the centre.

They have asked me to tell you that you are the political leader of Rivers State. Rivers people say where you go, they will go with you; where you stand, they will stand with you. Dont look back, stay focused, knowing that your people are behind you.
Omoyele Sowore, 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress has posited that spraying of the Naira notes could not have been the offence of controversial transgender, Idris Okuneye.

Recall that Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky was on Friday handed a six-month jail term over mutilation of the Naira currency by a Federal High Court in Lagos.

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Reacting to the development, Sowore via X said the energy exerted into the prosecution and jailing of Bobrisky by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), showed that his real offence could not have been spraying Naira at a party.

He said the real destroyers of the nations economy and currency were yet to be jailed for their crimes against Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Crossdresser, Bobrisky Bags Six-Month Jail Term For Naira Abuse

According to the activist, its left to be seen how the EFCC will handle the cases involving real financial criminals being prosecuted since 2007.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is gleefully announcing that Bobrisky has been jailed for six months without an option of a fine for mutilating the Nigerian currency, the Naira.

The real people destroying the economy are yet to be jailed for the massive economic damage they did to ruin Nigeria.

The energy put into prosecuting and jailing a crossdresser, Bobrisky, shows his real offence could not have been spraying Naira at a party.

Lets see how the EFCC handles cases involving real financial criminals, a long list being prosecuted since 2007-who destroyed the naira in the near future. #RevolutionNow, he posted.
A yet-to-be-identified woman has been crushed to death by a falling 40-feet container on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

It was gathered that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, in a statement, disclosed that the womans driver survived the accident unhurt.

However, Taofiq said that the horrible accident occurred because the container driver was travelling at high speed.

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He added that LASTMA officials and passersby, including the LASEMA Response Unit (LRU), were involved in the rescue operations.

READ MORE: LASTMA Laments Attacks On Officers By Danfo Passengers

The statement reads: A fully loaded 40ft Mack articulated truck today fell onto a Nissan Car (ABJ 692 BG) and instantly killed a woman at the rear of the car, while the car driver survived unhurt with support from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Officials at N.N.P.C. inward Estate, Alapere, Lagos. Lastma Alabi Olukayode (Zone 2, Ogudu/Alapere) disclosed that Lastma handed over the evacuated dead body (woman) to policemen from Alapere Police Station.

According to Zebra Alabi Olukayode, LASTMA officials and passersby, including the LASEMA Response Unit (LRU), were involved in the rescue operations.

Other emergency responders at the scene of the fatal accident include Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and the Police.

Also at the accident scene were the LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, LASTMA Director of Traffic Incidents, Event Monitoring, Enforcement, and Compliance, Mr. Hakeem Adeosun, and the LASTMA rescue team.

General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare Oki, however, warned motoring public, particularly truck drivers, to stop overspeeding and ensure their vehicles are properly checked, including the braking system, before embarking on any journey within or outside the state.
California Town Tears Down Cross

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Pacific Justice Institute

April 12, 2024



ALBANY, Calif., April 12, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- Over 50 years ago, a devout Christian and member of the Albany Lions Club asked the Club to fabricate a large lighted steel and plexiglass cross on his private land and maintain it in perpetuity. The cross was constructed and dedicated on Easter 1971. Since its construction the Lions Club has lighted the cross during the Christmas and Easter seasons and arranged for Easter morning sunrise services at the cross. When lighted, the cross is visible for miles, sending its message of Gods love and as a comfort to the Christian community. The cross is also a location where members of the community can come, pray, meet others in Christian fellowship and which has hosted: weddings, baby dedications, and memorial services for the community.

There were no objections to the cross, its lighting or the associated religious activities at the cross until 2016, when an atheist group raised a complaint and convinced the Albany City Council to take up the cause of removing the cross. The City Council held public hearings condemning the cross, asked the Lions Club to voluntarily remove the cross and offered to purchase the easement. When these efforts failed the City engaged in a campaign of harassment, which included disconnecting the electrical utility service to the cross. The service was restored less than four months later but the harassment continued, with the City Council vowing to explore every avenue to remove the cross.

The City's latest action to remove the cross is the filing of a condemnation action claiming, that the cross is "possibly" a First Amendment Establishment Clause problem. The Albany Lions Club has asserted its Constitutional rights to Free Exercise of Religion and Free Speech and is contesting the City's condemnation of the cross.

In a January 29, 2024 decision, an Alameda County Superior Court Judge approved the removal of the cross on Albany Hill, holding that the Lions Club cannot assert a Free Exercise of Religion claim because "The Lions Club has not shown that its organizational purpose, its mission, involves promoting religious activities." Apparently, according to the Court, only a church or religious group has a right to free exercise of religion. The Court goes on to declare that the City's "taking of the easement and removing the cross from public property does not violate the Lions Club's Free Exercise rights." The Court further states "The Lions Club cites no authority for the proposition that it has a right to speech [display of a symbol which sends the message of God's love] in a manner that violates the Establishment Clause." However, the Court failed to recognize the Lions Club had a property right to display the cross, a right which the City recognized when it acquired the land and which was previously recognized by the California Supreme Court.

Brad Dacus the President and Founder of Pacific Justice Institute has added that, "The first amendment of the constitution protects individuals and private entities from such blatant state hostility to those wishing to express symbols of faith and hope. We at PJI are committed to defending such constitutionally protected expression."

The Albany Lions' Club with the support and assistance of the Pacific Justice Institute is fighting in court to right this wrong.

SOURCE Pacific Justice Institute



CONTACT: 916-616-4126


Daddy Freeze, a well-known media personality, has apologised unconditionally after a video of him threatening to deport a significant number of Nigerians from the UK went viral.

He said that his threat was motivated by boiling emotions after being wrongfully charged.

He claimed that in order to stop or end such false narratives, he had to resort to threats.

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Daddy Freeze also said that if nothing is done about false narratives, they will become the truth.

He also admitted that he lacks the authority to deport anyone and has no ties to UK authorities to do so.

READ MORE: Weak Men Are Fond Of Frequently Using Fear Women Phrase  Reno Omokri

I would love to apologise for the media about the viral video where I was threatening to bring Nigerians in the UK back home about the COS route let me remind you that I have no such power, or such intentions, the video was part of the 1hr plus video where I got aggravated and annoyed because a certain lady called Mary made a false accusation about me, she said I charge professional fee and I didnt do the work meanwhile Mary was selling Cos which we all know is illegal he said in part.

SEE VIDEO:
The Lagos State Government on Thursday, reiterated its plans to demolish buildings that fail integrity test.

The state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made this known when he visited Dosunmu Market on the Lagos Island which was gutted by fire on Tuesday.

Recall that at least 14 buildings were engulfed by inferno which resulted in the loss of goods worth millions of naira.

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READ MORE: Lagos Fire Service Quench BRT Bus That Got Razed By Fire

Sanwo-Olu said: A lot of residential apartments have been turned to warehouses. I am saying without any iota of doubt that more buildings will go down.

I just finished the assessment of a very unfortunate, but preventable disaster.

Access was denied to the first responder to the fire for a couple of hours. This fire started more than 48 hours ago and is still alive.

At the last count, we have about 14 houses that have been affected, and more may go down after the extensive test.

What I have seen here is what could have been prevented. We do not have a full report yet, so I do not want to speculate.

From the initial report, it was gross carelessness.

We will bring down any property that does not conform to our rules and regulations of construction.

We cannot allow anyone to put the lives and property of others and the environment at risk.

We will support those affected by the fire so they can get back on their feet, however.

There are more progressive things we ought to be doing than to be spending scarce resources on avoidable accidents.
The Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja has granted bail to a former Central Bank, governor, Godwin Emefiele.

It was gathered that Justice Rahman Oshodi granted him bail in the sum of N50m with two sureties in like sum.

The court also held that the sureties must be gainfully employed and have three years of tax payment with the Lagos State Government.

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READ MORE: EFCC Files Fresh 26-Count Charge Against Emefiele, To Be Arraigned Monday

The judge also said that he was satisfied with the bail conditions of N1 million, earlier given to Emefieles co-defendant Henry Isioma-Omoil who is standing trial on another charge before Justice Olufunke Sule-Hamzat of the Lagos High Court sitting in Yaba.

According to the court, the bail documents must be transferred to the special offences court and it must also be registered in the Lagos State Bail Management System.

Recall that on the 1st of April, 2024, the Economic & Financial Crimes Commission, charged Emefiele before the court on a 26-count bordering on alleged abuse of office and irregular allocation of $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion respectively.
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), on Thursday, urged Nigerian Muslims to view the current economic realities as a test from Allah.

Executive Director, Ishaq Akintola, in his Sallah message also emphasized the importance of patience to overcome these challenges and attain divine blessings

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While urging Muslims to repent, change their ways, avoid greed, and be grateful, he highlighted that perseverance through these trials would lead to Allahs mercy and blessings.

The organization also appealed to Nigerians to stop pointing fingers, adopt a positive outlook towards their nation, and seek forgiveness from their supreme creator.

We congratulate the Nigerian Ummah (Muslim Community) on the successful completion of the 2024 (1445AH) Ramadan season. In particular, we felicitate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima as well as the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar.

READ ALSO: Weak Men Are Fond Of Frequently Using Fear Women Phrase  Reno Omokri

It is our wish to ponder over the present economic hardship being experienced by Nigerians. In the first place, we submit that Nigeria has been blessed in all ramifications including a wonderful and extended landscape, rich and fertile land, unlimited mineral resources as well as human capital wealth. Quran 20:118-119 and 16:112 alluded to these blessings.

But in spite of Allahs warning that Shaytan (Satan) is mans open enemy and that we should not allow him to deceive us into forgetting Allahs blessings (20:117), we hobnobbed with Shaytan, became greedy and committed evil on both land and sea (30:41) and failed to appreciate Allah (fakafarat bi aniumillahi) and as a result of our ingratitude, Allah made us taste the pangs of hunger and fear (16:112).

We therefore urge Nigerians to see the current hardship as a direct impact of our bad past and a trial (2:155 and 29:2) which we should patiently contend with and seek the forgiveness of Allah in order to overcome the hardship and receive divine blessings. According to the Glorious Quran, those who face the trial with forbearance will receive the mercy and blessings of Allah (2:157).

Consequently, MURIC calls on Nigerians to desist from trading blames, to cultivate a positive attitude towards their country, to seek forgiveness from their Supreme Creator, turn a new leaf and face the future with patience and hardwork, Akintola said.

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Former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Shehu Sani, says the late Ogbonnaya Onu, the first civilian Governor in Abia State, was displaced from being the President of Nigeria in 1999.

Recall that Onu, an All Progressives Congress presidential aspirant in the 2023 election, died in Abuja on Thursday at 73

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While paying tribute to the former Minister, he said Ogbonnaya could have been President in 1999 after he won the All Peoples Party primaries in Kaduna.

He was deliberately displaced after a midnight merger with the then AD. The military wanted Obasanjo and Falae.

The late Chief Onu is one of Nigerias most distinguished, decent and disciplined political figures in history.

He has been an influential figure in Nigerias politics for over four decades. A Senator in the second republic,a Governor in the third republic and a presidential candidate, party chairman and minister in the fourth republic.

READ ALSO: Ex-Minister Ogbonnaya Onu Is Dead

He is a rare breed politician who lived as unstained, untainted and unblemished like his white apparel. He was a man who lived and served his country with decorum and impactful anonymity.

He was a true patriot whose nationalist credentials cant be faulted by any section of the country. Onu was an unnoticed and unappreciated gentleman and national leader. In words and in deeds, he lived above politics of rancour and controversy. In 1999, the outgoing military wanted power to shift to the South West. Onu was a simple man.

His known residence in Asokoro remains the one rented for him by his party, the ANPP, when he was elected its chairman. He remained there throughout his tenure as Minister. May his soul rest in peace.

In a similar tribute, former Abia Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Emma Nwaka, disclosed that Onu surrendered his presidential ticket in 1998 for democracy to gain roots in Nigeria.

By his death, Nigeria has lost somebody who firmly believed in the Nigerian Project, a man who without fuss surrendered his presidential ticket for democracy to gain roots in our dear fatherland, he said.
Some yet to be identified gunmen have kidnapped a reporter of Channels Television, Joshua Rogers, at his residence in Rumuosi in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday night.

It was gathered that Rogers, who covers the Rivers State Government House for his media organisation, was reportedly followed after he closed from work to his residence.

According to PUNCH, the miscreants accosted him before he alighted from his car, pointed a gun at him and whisked him along with his vehicle off to an unknown destination at about 9 pm.

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A source who said he doesnt want his name mentioned, said tha the reporter had earlier covered an event in Ndoni in the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of the state where Governor Siminalayi Fubara, inaugurated a Primary Healthcare Centre.

He said: Yes, he was kidnapped last night at his residence in Rumuosi and taken away in his car by some unknown gunmen.

We are appealing to the kidnappers to release him immediately and unhurt. He is just a journalist doing his job and not a moneybags. So I dont know the purpose of his kidnap.

Also confirming the incident, the commands spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, told the News Agency of Nigeria, in Port Harcourt on Friday, that the reporter was abducted in the late hours of Thursday.

She said that the police is collaborating with other security agencies to secure his early release from his abductors.

READ MORE: Two Feared Killed As Gunmen In Millitary Uniform Abduct Rivers Gov Candidate

Grace said: The Rivers Police command is aware of Rogerss abduction, and efforts are already underway to secure his release.

Although his abductors are yet to make contact, we are working with other security agencies to get him freed.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, says Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, lied about the cost of the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

The 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate also faulted the minister for his statement that the coastal highway project will tentatively cost N15.6 trillion.

Recall that Umahi, said the project would cost N15.6 trillion ($13bn at an exchange rate of N1,200/$1) while the rail, which will pass through the road will be summed up separately.

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The former Governor of Ebonyi State also said the project would not be a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), but the Federal Government would provide 15%- 30% counterpart financing.

Responding to Umahis comments in a Friday statement by his media office, Atiku said the tentative cost of the project would be more than N15.6 trillion, and that the cost was the equivalent of the total budget of all 36 States of the Federation combined.

According to him, the project was included in the 2024 budget as the Lagos-Port Harcourt coastal highway and cost N500m, adding that the amount announced by Umahi did not include the cost of the railway component.

Atiku who wondered how much the project would cost if the railway component was included also blamed Umahi for altering the projects initial plan after Gilbert Chagourys Hitech was awarded the contract without any competitive bidding.

If N15.6 trillion is for the road component alone, then the total cost could be far higher when the railway is included. We want to know the cost of the railway.

The total budget of all 36 states of the federation for 2024 stands at about N14 trillion. If you add that of the FCT, the entire budget of all subnationals is N15.91 trillion. This is scandalous. Worse still, they have already awarded the contract but are still not sure of the level of the federal governments counterpart funding component!

Umahi had said in September 2023 that Gilbert Chagourys Hitech had the money to construct the highway and that it would be PPP. Hitech was to build, operate, and transfer it back to the Nigerian government after years of tolling.

READ ALSO: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: Youre Building Castles Without Knowledge  FG Replies Atiku On Project Cost

It was reported by every media organization, including those owned by Tinubu. It was on the basis of this proposal that Hitech was picked. Why did Umahi then turn around to claim that it was not to be a PPP but that the government would pay 15%-30%?

Although the National Assembly approved N500m for the project this year, the Tinubu administration has released N1.06tn. That is more than 200 times what is in the Appropriation Act. This is what happens when the National Assembly fails in its duties, Atiku said.

He also slammed the Minister for admitting that the project was given to Hitech construction company without competitive bidding.

The essence of competitive bidding is so that Nigerians can get the best value for money. It is so that you can compare prices and pick the company that can afford the project. It is wrong for him to have concluded that only Hitech could handle this project when such a project has been done by other reputable firms in the United States, China and South Africa.

He claims he didnt know there was a business relationship between Gilbert Chagoury and Tinubu, but this is another lie because Tinubu has publicly acknowledged this fact, he added.

While accusing the Works Minister of attempting to deceive Nigerians as regards the appropriation for the project, he called on National Assembly members to be alive to their responsibilities.

He said, Until I exposed the dubious nature of this project, no member of the National Assembly thought it wise to investigate. The total cost was never made known until now. The fact that there was no bidding was never made known until I blew the whistle.

The former Vice President further criticized Umahi for claiming that no money had been released to Hitech yet, which he described as another lie.

On March 31, 2024, Umahi came on Channels Televisions Sunday Politics programme where he pointedly said that money that the sum of N1.06tn was released to Hitech. Only for him to say on TVC on April 11 that the same money had not been released. Which one is true, and which one is false? he queried.
John Oates will headline the Philadelphia Folk Festival in August, along with hip-hop bluegrass band Gangstgrass. Read more

The initial lineup for the 2024 Philadelphia Folk Festival has been announced.

John Oates and Gangstagrass are the headliners for the 61st PFF, which is set to return to the Old Pool Farm in Upper Salford Township near Schwenksville on Aug. 15-18.

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Oates  who has been warring with his Hall & Oates partner Daryl Hall in a legal dispute that first made headlines last November  is going forward with a solo career with a new album, Reunion, due next month.

Gangstagrass is a Brooklyn based hip-hop bluegrass whose members include Philadelphia rapper, R-Son the Voice of Reason. The group is best known for its song Long Hard Times to Come, the theme song to the FX crime drama Justified.

Last year, the Folk Festival, founded in 1962, was not staged in any form for the first time in its history. The PFF formerly billed itself as the longest continuously running outdoor music festival in the U.S.

It was one of several annual Philly area music festivals that were canceled in 2023, including Made in America and Delawares Firefly Festival. Those gatherings have also been canceled this year, but the smaller PFF is returning, with several performers announced this week as supporting acts.

They include BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Craig Bickhardt, John Flynn, Alice Howe and Freebo, the Faux Paws, the Great Groove Band, Windborne, and Aaron Nathans & Michael G. Ronstadt.

Kimberly Sinclair, who is in charge of booking festival talent said Wednesday that many more acts have yet to be announced.

Last years festival was canceled in February 2023 after Philadelphia Folksong Society president Miles Thompson told members they were in dire financial straits that left the organization close to bankruptcy.

In December, the PFF announced a new management team, with Andrew and Michael Braunfeld of Blind Justice Music taking over as festival directors and Sinclair named festival artistic director. The Braunfelds are former producers of the Spring Gulch Folk Festival in New Holland, Pa., as well as partners in the Conshohocken law firm Masterson Braunfeld.

As is its tradition, the festival will kick off on the Thursday night before the main festivities begin with a show on the Camp Stage for tent and RV ticket holders. That lineup features Shanna in a Dress, Miss Emily, and the Adam Ezra Group. Gangstagrass will headline Friday night, and Oates is the Saturday night headliner.

Tickets are on sale at Folkfest.org.
Former "Golden Bacheor" contestant Susan Noles, of Aston, Pa., married Gerry Turner and Teresa Nist on live television on Jan. 4. The couple is getting divorced after three months of marriage  and long distance. Read more

Well, that was fast.

Golden Bachelor stars Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist have announced they are getting a divorce  just three months after the couple tied the knot in an overly produced TV wedding that (of course) was officiated by a Delco woman.

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Turner and Nist met on the first season of the ABC Bachelor spin-off, where 22 contestants competed to start their second act with Turner, a 72-year-old retired restauranteur from Indiana who lied about dating after the death of his first wife. Nist ultimately won Turners heart, beating out Susan Noles, a Kris Jenner doppleganger and hairdresser from Aston so beloved by fans that she ended up marrying the couple when they wed on live television in early January. (We digress.)

I know Ive found a partner to share all of lifes experiences that are thrown at us, Turner said in his vows to Nist.

 READ MORE: Delcos Susan Noles officiated Thursdays Golden Bachelor wedding. Here were our 4 favorite moments.

Turner and Nist took to Good Morning America on Friday to announce their split.

Nist and Turner told GMA reporter Juju Chang that the decision boiled down to logistics: The two could not agree on where to live.

The couple had never actually moved in together after the wedding, TMZ reported, splitting time between Indiana and New Jersey, where Nist lives and works in compliance at a financial advisory firm. They had plans to settle down in South Carolina.

We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at homes after home, but we never got to the point where we made that decision, Nist said on GMA.

The thing that strikes me the most in our conversations, its been how dedicated both of us are to our families, Turner continued. We just feel like its best for the happiness of each of us to, to live apart.

 READ MORE: Susan Noles of The Golden Bachelor dishes on her experience on the show and repping Delco

Turner and Nist also denied rumors that his less-than-honest dating history factored into their decision.

While on the Golden Bachelor, Turner claimed he had not gone on a date in 45 years, dutifully guarding his heart after his school sweetheart died in 2017. In reality, he started seriously dating a woman 14 years his junior just a month after his wifes death, eventually moving in with her before they split in 2020.

Gerry had already discussed that with me ... we were good with that, Nist said.

The couple held hands the entire time they talked about their impending divorce.

Theres no doubt in my mind, I still am in love with [Nist]. I root for her every day, Turner said.

Both Nist and Turner said they are still open to looking for love  just not with each other.

We didnt want to pretend to anybody. Im 72. That would be a waste of time, said Turner.

What does Susan Noles have to say?

Admittedly, not much.

Over the course of the Golden Bachelor, Noles grew close with both Nist and Turner, who sent her home in Week 5 after realizing the two had more bestie energy than romantic chemistry. Noles offered to do Nists hair and makeup for the wedding  a callback to the primping she did before Nists first date  and went along with the former bride to help pick out her wedding dress.

 READ MORE: "Golden Bachelor" week 5: Susan Noles of Delco goes home  but not without her best Mummers strut

I truly believe [Nist and Turner] fell in love. They have their reasons, Im sure, Noles said in an Instagram video with Kathy Swarts, the cohost of the Bachelor Happy Hour: Golden Hour podcast. We wish them all the best.
Philadelphias James Beard-caliber chefs tend to ply their craft in the city. Dionicio Jimenez of Kensingtons Cantina La Martina, a nominee last year for the James Beard award for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic, is heading to Ambler, Montgomery County, for his second restaurant.

Jimenez and his wife, Mariangeli Alicea Saez, are planning La Baja, a 30-seat, moderately upscale BYOB, where the cooking will fuse the northern Mexican border cuisine of Baja with Mediterranean and Asian ingredients. They hope to open in May, after Cantinas Cinco de Mayo hubbub subsides.

La Baja, occupying a side-street storefront at 9 N. Main St. in the boroughs commercial district, promises to be a creative departure for Jimenez, who brought refined Mexican cooking to the heart of Kensington in 2022 with his debut as a restaurateur.

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 READ MORE: Craig LaBan's 2022 review of Cantina La Martinez

La Baja will allow Jimenez to showcase the Italian cuisine he mastered in the early 2000s at the beginning of his Philadelphia career, notably the pastas he created over his years at Vetri Cucina.

Mexicos northern border is important, Jimenez and Saez explained. Its the crucible of modern Mexican cuisine, where foods from South and Central America pass through on their way to American tables. There is that perception that theres only bad things that happen at the border, Saez said. Theres the social aspect of [immigration] that needs to be resolved by both countries, but also theres so much good that also happens and contributes to the economy of this country.

The climate also resembles parts of the Mediterranean.

The menu includes truffled huitlacoche risotto, a melding of Mexico and Italy. Theres also a hummus sampler including dips made of sikil pak (a Maya dish made of pepitas), beet, green pea, and avocado tatemado (a roasted avocado). There will be yellowtail tiradito with yuzu, red jalapenos, and watermelon radish; uni tuna tostada with preserved black lime; mole negro with buffalo mozzarella; grilled octopus with black garlic aguachile; boneless goat with pistachio pipian; duck breast in a pomegranate mole; pork chop in a smoky fig glaze; and  in a particularly advanced Puebla-Italian matchup  papalo fettuccine with wild boar Bolognese.

Jimenezs story is common among many Mexican-born workers in the United States. A native of Puebla, he crossed into the U.S. illegally in 1998, walking thousands of miles until he arrived at a relatives house in Philadelphia. He started work as a dishwasher, juggling days with chef Philippe Chin at his restaurant at the Locust Club and nights at Vetri, new at the time.

Marc Vetri promoted Jimenez through his kitchen stations before appointing him sous chef and helping him become a U.S. citizen. Michael Solomonov, also a Vetri alumnus, hired Jimenez as his first head chef at the Head House Square fine-dining restaurant Xochitl in 2007. Stephen Starr hired him away in 2010 at El Rey near Rittenhouse Square. He left in 2021 to build out Cantina La Martina, a cheery oasis beneath SEPTAs Somerset stop of the Market-Frankford El.

Jimenezs trip to his hometown of San Mateo Ozolco was the subject of a Craig LaBan story with evocative photos by Jessica Griffin.

La Baja is adding to an already stacked Mexican restaurant scene in Ambler Borough, with the casual El Limon and Taqueria El Habanero to be joined midsummer by Cantina Feliz, moving in from nearby Fort Washington.
Donuts and a classic chicken sandwich and the Early Bird breakfast sandwich with fries, at the new Federal Donuts location at Swanson and Wolf Streets, in South Philadelphia, Monday, March 4, 2024. Read more

Federal Donuts & Chicken, taking the first steps at a national expansion, will expand its presence in Philadelphias suburbs this year with three franchise locations, in Radnor, Conshohocken, and Willow Grove.

There are no projected opening dates for the chicken/doughnut/coffee shops at 200 N. Radnor Chester Rd. in Radnor (a former HipCityVeg); 4021 Welsh Rd. in Willow Grove (a former Jamba Juice at Willow Grove Pointe); and 200 Ridge Pike in Conshohocken (next to Saladworks in Plymouth Square Shopping Center).

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Radnor is expected to be the first to open, followed by Willow Grove. Letters of intent for other potential sites have been signed in Southeastern Pennsylvania, said Chris Magarity, a member of the franchise group.

Originally conceived as Federal Donuts in 2011 by a multiheaded partnership including restaurateurs Mike Solomonov and Steve Cook, it was intended as a passion project to combine two fried foods they love. Two years ago, the company took on private-equity investment in a deal that could grow the brand to 150 stores nationwide, and rebranded as Federal Donuts & Chicken. Jeff Benjamin, also the business partner of chef Marc Vetri in their Italian restaurants, is chief executive of the company.

There are six Federal Donuts & Chicken locations in Philadelphia, one in Wynnewood, and several arena stands. A FD&C location in Las Vegas opened last month in Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa.

The most recent opening was last month at Wolf and Swanson Streets in South Philadelphia. This location, with an outsize kitchen, will also be used for research and development.

Magaritys partners in the franchise group are Mike Sloane and Michael Heller.

Sloane owns Park Avenue Motor Cars, the Mercedes-Benz dealership in Fort Washington, where Magarity is chief executive. They are partners in several Montgomery County restaurants, including Westside Bar & Grill in West Conshohocken and Jaspers Backyard in Conshohocken. Heller, executive chairman and chief executive of Cozen OConnor, one of the citys largest law firms, is a longtime friend of Sloanes.

In an interview, Magarity said: The unique kind of combination of a James Beard-winning chef and fast-casual food is something thats one of a kind, and the fact that its a Philadelphia brand is very personal to all of us.

Magaritys go-to is the Early Bird breakfast sandwich  a bacon, egg, and cheese with a chicken tender, topped with cherry pepper relish. Sloane is partial to the chicken tenders. Heller, who in his day job at Cozen looks at holes in legal arguments, said he enjoys the chocolate cake old-fashioned and cinnamon brown-sugar doughnuts, and finds the chicken sandwich and tenders insanely good.
Temple University Hospitals Episcopal Campus was cited by state inspectors in January for failing to document that treatment plans for mental and behavioral health patients were reviewed and updated every 30 days.

Pennsylvanias Mental Health Procedures Act requires hospitals to review treatment plans for each patient every 30 days and record the review, as well as any updates, in the patients medical record.

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Inspectors reviewed four cases involving two current patients, and two patients who had been released earlier in 2023 after treatment for schizophrenia. In all four cases, inspectors found no evidence that Episcopal had reviewed their treatment plans every 30 days as required.

The hospital said it would create a new template in its electronic health record to ensure doctors complete the 30-day plan reviews and record them in patients medical records.

Staff were trained on the requirement, and administrators agreed to audit medical records of patients staying longer than 30 days to check for compliance.

The citation stemmed from one of three times inspectors visited Temples main hospital, Jeanes, or Episcopal campuses between August and January.

Heres a look at the publicly available details:
Waves from a storm surge crash along the dunes of 14th Avenue beach in North Wildwood on March 25, 2024. Water can be seen pushing past the dunes and closer to residential properties. Read more

In North Wildwood, every square inch of sand matters, and thats why the city says it is considering banning tents, cabanas, and oversize umbrellas on its shrinking beaches.

North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello said residents and tourists can blame the states Department of Environmental Protection for that.

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The beach situation has deteriorated pretty dramatically in the last year, Rosenello said. We are completely dependent on the NJDEP. This restriction is a direct result of NJDEP not doing the beach replenishment for 10 years.

The city has been steadily losing sand to erosion and storms in recent years, and some beaches have all but disappeared during high tide. Erosion and storms will always affect the Jersey Shores barrier islands, but those issues have been addressed, for years, by dredging sand offshore and pumping it back onto the beaches.

In North Wildwood, the beach replenishment issue has grown into a protracted war of words, along with some fines, between the city and the state. North Wildwood filed a civil suit against the state last year for the $21 million it claims it spent trucking sand in from neighboring Wildwood while it waited for state and federal programs to get started.

North Wildwood even put up small signs affixed to street signs, urging residents and visitors to implore Gov. Phil Murphy for help.

The state has accused North Wildwood of illegally reshaping dunes and building protective bulkheads. The NJDEP believes those measures would actually make erosion worse.

You are placing the public safety, environment, and the Citys access to continued financial support for shore protection at risk, NJDEP commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette wrote to the city in July.

A spokesman for the NJDEP referred comments to the governors office. A spokeswoman for Murphy said the governor will continue to work collaboratively to identify a solution to mitigate erosion in North Wildwood.

Rosenello said North Wildwoods proposed ordinance would still allow traditional, single-pole beach umbrellas. Tents, cabanas, and other temporary shade structures could be allowed back if and when beach replenishment occurs. He said North Wildwoods proposed ordinance was copied from similar language in Rehoboth Beach, Del., which is also dealing with shrinking beaches.

Theres a Facebook group dedicated to North Wildwoods coastal processes that explores the history and width of its beaches along with some theorizing about how they got so bad, what may be causing the erosion, and what could be done about it. Some suggest that Hereford Inlet, along the citys northernmost shore, is the main factor with its constantly shifting channels, islands, and sandbars pulling sand from the beaches.

Others have wondered whether massive rock jetties could protect the beaches.

Rosenello said beach erosion will always plague the whole Jersey Shore coastline and it will always require human intervention  mostly dredging  to address the problem.

Unfortunately, its looking like North Wildwood is a case study for when it doesnt happen, he said.

North Wildwoods last beach replenishment, Rosenello said, came in 2013 when the Federal Emergency Management Agency did an emergency dredging.
Philadelphia police commissioner Kevin Bethel speaks with reporters following an event for Mayor Cherelle L. Parker to mark her 100th day in office at Conwell Middle School in the Kensington section of Philadelphia on Thursday, April 11, 2024. Read more

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel on Thursday unveiled a sprawling plan detailing how his administration will tackle some of the citys longest-standing issues: gun violence, drug use, and quality-of-life crimes.

Inside Russell Conwell Middle School in Kensington, a neighborhood where residents have experienced more violence and trauma than arguably any other in the city in recent years, Bethel said he was committed to not only setting lofty goals, but also laying a detailed foundation for them to be accomplished  even with an understaffed police force.

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This is about getting the work done, Bethel told the crowded auditorium of city employees and leaders.

The 53-page report, prepared by Bethel and his executive team over the last 100 days in response to Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers executive order, comes as overall violent crime in the city continues to decline. It outlines the departments strategies to tackle what Parker has long identified as her top priorities while in office: getting guns off the streets, shutting down open-air drug markets, and treating property crimes with just as much importance as violent ones.

 READ MORE: How Kensington, growing pains, and unexpected crises defined Mayor Parkers first 100 days

Most notably, the department laid out its plan for Kensington  though there is still no timeline on when police might begin their enforcement phase, arresting people for drug crimes and forcing the hundreds living on the streets to leave the area. Where users will go, and how the city will accommodate a population with such complex physical and mental health needs, remains unclear.

This is one of the most unique situations in America, Bethel said. Setting a specific timeline or deadline for clearing the area would only hamstring officers and pressure officials to rush to fix a very complex issue, he said.

We will not be rushed by anyone, he said. Still, he said, residents will start to see an immediate difference.

Here are five takeaways from the public safety plan:

Cut shootings in half

Bethels plan listed lofty goals on reducing violent crime, including that the department aims to cut the rate of shootings in half by 2025.

The plan says that in 2024, homicides will drop by 20%, back to pre-pandemic levels, meaning the city will not exceed 328 killings or 1,328 shooting victims for the year. Then, by the following year, the administration aims to see violence drop by an additional 25%, down to numbers not seen in more than a decade.

Bethel acknowledged that he will have to execute this plan with about 1,000 fewer officers on the force, as the department continues to struggle to recruit and fill vacant positions. But, he said, he believes its possible with the right approach.

The plan comes as violence across the city has declined overall, returning to pre-pandemic levels. So far this year, 77 people have been killed in homicides, the vast majority by guns, a 34% reduction compared with the same time last year. Shootings overall are down 40% compared with the same time in 2023, according to police data. Gunpoint robbery has also dropped by 35%, and rape by 26%.

To see a continued decline, Bethels plan says that the department will be deliberate in deploying police, and that staff and investigative resources will be especially focused around the 10 police districts and intersections that have seen about 78% of the shootings in the city. The plan says the department will create mobile surge teams to send an influx of officers to hot spots on the weekends.

Those intersections, among others, include multiblock radiuses surrounding:

Kensington and Allegheny Avenues Lehigh Avenue and Broad Street 52nd and Market Streets 20th and Diamond Streets Glenwood Avenue and Clearfield Street

The department is also expanding its forensics capabilities, and has hired a new team that it says will process ballistics evidence more quickly. The goal is to see a crime gun processed within 48 hours of being recovered, instead of the current pace of more than two weeks, according to the plan.

Address retail theft

Retail theft continues to be a challenge. Police data show that reports are up by about 30% so far this year, with more than 5,200 incidents.

According to the plan, 15% of all retail theft in the city occurs at 10 addresses and shopping centers. Police will target enforcement to those areas, and, using a list of prolific offenders, hope to cut the rate of retail theft in half.

ATVs, dirt bikes, and car meets

The police department will expand its ATV enforcement detail to cover more days of the week, aside from mostly weekends in the summer months, according to the report.

Officers are monitoring popular gathering locations and social media chatter about meet-ups. The department is also looking to train officers how to deploy slow tire deflation equipment, or spike strips, on ATVs and dirt bikes. Through partnerships with state and federal agencies, the plan says officials are looking into whether they can charge suspects with conspiracy, and even go after people in the groups who are not directly participating in the rides.

Remove drug users in Kensington

The most far-reaching initiative centers on shutting down Kensingtons open-air drug market  a billion-dollar heroin industry that has resulted in hundreds of people in addiction living on the streets, experiencing complex physical and mental health crises tied to a toxic drug supply. Dozens of corners in the neighborhood are occupied by dealers raking in thousands of dollars a day, and the area has some of the highest rates of violence in the city.

Police laid out a five-phase plan on addressing the issues, though Bethel declined to say when he expected each stage to be accomplished.

I do not want to put a timeline on that, but we are going to be moving effectively, he said. We have children being impacted every day, communities being impacted every day.

I want to manage expectations, he said. It will not get resolved in the first month.

First, police will warn people living on the streets or committing crimes of their plans to ramp up enforcement in the area. Then, officers will begin clearing the streets and making arrests.

During the enforcement phase, police will first focus on the areas from E Street to Jasper Street, and Tioga Street to Indiana Avenue  making arrests for drug and quality-of-life crimes and removing drug users from the area.

This will be a multiday initiative that will include arrests for narcotics, prostitution, quality-of-life crimes and other criminal acts, according to the plan. Once that initial corridor is cleared and secured, police will expand into surrounding blocks.

Bethel said people in addiction will be provided resources for recovery and sobriety, but that they will no longer be permitted to live on the street and openly use drugs.

Once the area is cleared and stabilized, it will be deep cleaned, and eventually, barricades or bike racks will be employed to keep sidewalks and business corridors cleared. Eventually, the blocks will be handed back to the community.

This is a systemic problem and were going to be down here for a while, bringing order back to this community, Bethel said.

Other notes:
Cleopatra Robinson, founder and executive director of A Home from Shana Foundation, joined City Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson in early April after the councilmember issued a proclamation recognizing Black Maternal Health Week in the city from Apr. 11 - 17. Read more

Saleemah McNeil remembers when she was 19, giving birth, and coming out of labor the survivor of a traumatic birth experience. Now, the Oshun Family Center she founded as a consequence of that is leading Philadelphias plans for the seventh annual national Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) which runs April 11-17.

For Black women, giving birth carries with it a risk of death three times higher than that for white women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the week is intended to bring a national spotlight to what is needed to keep Black women from dying or experiencing serious medical problems during childbirth.

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My son had a traumatic entry into earth and it was really hard [for me], McNeil said.

Although she had family support, McNeil didnt have the mental health resources she truly needed to cope with the trauma, so she decided to train as a reproductive psychotherapist and to create the resources she wished she had had  at Oshun Family Center every therapist is trained in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in a culturally sensitive way.

Raising awareness of a crisis

The Black maternal mortality public health crisis has been escalating for decades. In 1987, the overall mortality rate was 6.6 per 100,000 births. By 2020, it had soared to 23.8 per 100,000 births, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Black women are three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related complications as white women.

 READ MORE: Americas racist maternal mortality crisis traces back to Philadelphia

City Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, who has shared her own traumatic birth story, cited in her resolution recognizing Black Maternal Health Week that the high rates of maternal mortality among Black women span across income levels, education levels, and socioeconomic status.

Sometimes I feel Im not doing enough and it feels good to know Im not in this by myself. Cleopatra Robinson

Black Maternal Health Week, nationally sponsored by the Black Mamas Maternal Alliance (BMMA), is an effort to transform private grief into public action.

McNeil said regional activities include an advocacy day in Harrisburg along with such fun events as a 5K walk and a city-wide baby shower.

BMHW is about awareness. How many people dont know about the Black maternal health crisis? said Cleopatra Robinson, founder and executive director of the nonprofit A Place for Shana Foundation, which provides birthing support.

The week also brings advocates together to support each other, Robinson said.

Birth workers coming together and learning about each others work can share the information. Sometimes I feel Im not doing enough, and it feels good to know Im not in this by myself, Robinson said.

A Home for Shana Foundation is a Philly nonprofit working to improve maternal outcomes in underserved communities. It is named for Robinsons friend LaShana Gilmore (no relation to Katherine Gilmore Richardson), who died in childbirth. The organization is one of the sponsors of the Black Maternal Health 5K Walk which will start at 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 14 at Valley Green Inn in Fairmount Park.

Its not a fundraiser. Its just a time to gather, collaborate, and talk.

Heeding community voices

Maternal advocates believe Black maternal mortality is not merely the result of personal health problems. It is also a sign of a health care system quality and access problem. Thats why the week will close out with Black Maternal Health Week -Advocacy Day at the Capitol in Harrisburg on Tuesday, April 16.

McNeil said at least 150 people are expected from Philadelphia, adding that the most significant point for the day is to make sure that legislators understanding of Black maternal health is aligned with the lived expertise of the community.

That the community voice isnt lost, McNeil said.

The A Home from Shana Foundation family is going to the state capitol to honor her and lift up [LaShana Gilmores] story, not to trigger but to raise awareness that is still challenging. That it is is a real-life story that is happening every day, Robinson said.

 READ MORE: Philly Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson gave $250,000 to develop citys first haven for unhoused pregnant women

Moving the needle

In 2018, the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee (PA-MMRC) was launched to investigate each maternal death, identify the cause, and suggest prevention strategies. Until then, there was no statewide effort to review maternal deaths and recommend solutions. The fact that we just starting measuring this is startling, said State Rep. Morgan Cephas (D., Philadelphia), one of the founders of the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus.

The Black Maternal Health Week agenda for Harrisburg includes a luncheon focused on the states recently released 2024 Maternal Mortality Review Annual Report, the second such review. The report found that 107 Pennsylvanians lost their lives during pregnancy, delivery, or up to one year postpartum in 2020.

Compare the numbers to the previous report; they are still startling. They are still over 100. It has ticked down but we are not out of the woods with this thing, Cephas said.

Cephas said that Republicans focus on abortion but there are other womens health issues that need legislators attention. The bicameral PA Black Maternal Health Caucus started last October and has 70 members, but with the Democrats in the majority, and particularly Rep. Joanna E. McClinton as the first female speaker of the House, according to Cephas, they have been able to make progress. That includes $2.5 million for maternal health in Gov. Josh Shapiros budget, additional maternal support for incarcerated women, and the extension of Medicaid for 12 months postpartum.

Still, Robinson insists that more must be done to address the crisis.

Whats next? she plans to ask the legislators whom she meets in the next few days. I dont want to leave hope on the steps of the Capitol.
A family's Francisville rowhouse was damaged by adjacent contruction, and rendered so dangerous that the city said it had to be demolished immediately. Read more

When Sandy Island rushed her three school-age kids out of their lifelong home on Tuesday, they didnt know it would be for the last time.

My family was already struggling as is, she said. Her husband, Tyrone Mack, has Stage 4 colon cancer, her son Tyreek has leukemia, and daughter Mac-kyah, at age 11, has had three open-heart surgeries. And then they came here and hit the side of my home with their crane.

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A developer called the Regis Group had been building a 10-unit apartment complex on the two-parcel lot next door in the Francisville neighborhood, and Island said it had been causing damage to her rowhouse for months, requiring installation of star bolts to secure it. Then, the impact on Tuesday caused a partial collapse.

Island was struggling with the front door, which was stuck, when she heard a scream from behind her. The kitchen [ceiling] fell on my kids, she said. They were terrified but unharmed.

City records show that Dornelas Construction was the excavator.

Dornelas is one of just a handful of companies licensed by the city of Philadelphia for dangerous, high-risk excavation work. It also has a long history of undermining or destroying neighboring homes and putting workers in danger, a 2023 Inquirer investigation found.

The city  despite issuing Dornelas 17 violations in two years, and suspending the license of an alter-ego company, Freedom Construction  has not revoked Dornelas license.

Public records show no indication that inspectors provided oversight of that excavation work; two scheduled inspections, for March and April, are listed as canceled.

Mack learned of the destruction on his way home from cancer treatment, according to Legacy of Hope, a nonprofit collecting donations to support the family. Island said he was in physical pain, and both were like zombies from lack of sleep.

Were here, but were not here, she said.

Michael Rowe, the nonprofits chief executive, said that the contractors involved have provided no help thus far, and already walked back their offer to put the family in a hotel or residence for the night.

Dornelas did not return calls. Calls to the Regis Group went unanswered. And James Clancy, listed as the design professional in charge, did not respond to a message left Thursday.

Understaffed, budget unchanged

The collapse came less than 24 hours after the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) presented a flat-funded budget proposal from Mayor Cherelle L. Parker  who had pledged to step up enforcement and rein in a culture of impunity among contractors. In response to The Inquirers investigation and a city task forces recommendations, she split L&I into two departments, one of which is to focus exclusively on building safety.

But Parker failed to act on another task force recommendation  that L&I retain a greater percentage of the $87 million in annual revenue it generates, to address severe staffing shortfalls. Instead, the Parker administration has proposed to keep the departments funding unchanged, even as its two new leaders pledged to roll out a slew of additional programs, including proactive rental-unit inspections, which would be a first for Philadelphia.

The budget presentation revealed staffing is at 75% and building inspectors are facing workloads near all-time highs  responsible for 989 permits each, on average.

Representatives of the city and L&I did not respond to requests for comment.

Dornelas Constructions history with the city goes back to 2021, when it obtained a license just as Freedom Construction was facing a suspension from the city for repeated violations related to excavation, shoring and underpinning that risked public safety. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also lists Freedom as a severe violator for exposing workers to danger of cave-ins at six excavation sites.

Excavations are the citys leading cause of construction damage and collapses, because work can destabilize the foundations of the citys century-old rowhouses, which are built atop rough rubble stone held together with little or no mortar.

In a 2023 deposition, co-owner Ronildo Dornelas testified about a different Dornelas project that caused a building to be structurally compromised. He said he realized that the engineers plans were flawed; they called for compacting wet soil that would cause enough vibration to potentially destabilize a neighboring structure. But, under pressure from the contractor and engineer, he said, he went ahead with it. As soon as  the compactor started to be used, the house broke, he testified.

The Inquirers investigation found that at least 50 occupied rowhouses across the city each year are rendered unsafe during construction next door, and that city and state regulators had failed to discipline contractors, architects or engineers who caused repeated damage.

In February, New Salem Baptist Church  which has been a fixture in North Philadelphia for 90 years  was deemed unsafe after cracks spread across its walls and floors during excavation on an adjacent property.

They have destroyed our church home, said Catherine Autrey, a church member. Our church has gaping holes in the wall. From the top we have cracks all the way to the floor. The floor is separated from the wall. This is heartbreaking, because now we dont even have a place to worship.

She and other church members said it took days of calling L&I and holding rallies to get any city attention. Two months later, their church is still listed as unsafe.

If they dont respect Gods house, if they can do it to his house, church member Sheila Briggman said, they can do it to anybodys house.
File photo from 2021 of State Rep. Amen Brown of Philadelphia holding a photograph showing "ghost gun" kits at a gun show. Read more

Philadelphia has reached a settlement of a lawsuit against two ghost gun parts manufacturers that will halt sales in the city and nearby Pennsylvania counties and provide the city with more than $1 million to fund gun violence prevention, officials have announced.

Similar settlements in Baltimore and California have been announced in recent months against Polymer80, which has been described as the biggest manufacturer of ghost gun parts. The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has estimated that Polymer80 was responsible for more than 88% of the ghost guns recovered by police from 2017 to 2021.

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Philadelphia last year sued Polymer80 Inc., based in Nevada, and JSD Supply Inc., based in Western Pennsylvania, alleging they had perpetuated the gun violence crisis and threatened the publics right to health and safety by marketing, selling, and dispersing unserialized ghost gun kits into Philadelphia.

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced the settlement at a public safety event on Thursday. She called it an important legal step by the citys Law Department to get ghost guns off our streets and hold gun dealers accountable.

Under the settlement, the companies will permanently halt all sales of ghost gun parts in Philadelphia and for four years in suburban collar and other nearby counties, including Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Berks, Lancaster, Lehigh, and Northampton.

The city will receive $1.3 million over four years to fund gun violence prevention.

Jonathan S. Goldstein, a lawyer for Polymer80, declined to comment. Representatives for JSD Supply could not be reached for comment.

The Polymer80 website provides legal notifications that the company is prohibited from selling parts in California and Maryland and the District of Columbia.

The company describes itself as a designer and developer of innovative firearms and aftermarket accessories that provide ways for our customer to participate in the build process, while expressing their right to bear arms. This provides a fun learning experience and a greater sense of pride in their completed firearm, strengthening our brand loyalty. We summarize this with our motto of Engage Your Freedom.

On the JSD Supply website, the company says that since 2013, weve helped thousands of people customize their own gun from the privacy of their garage.

Last July, Kimbrady Carriker was charged with killing five people during a shooting rampage in West Philadelphia that involved two ghost guns.

Prior to 2019, Philadelphia police discovered five or fewer of the privately manufactured firearms per year during criminal investigations, The Inquirer reported. By 2022, 575 ghost guns turned up in investigations.

One of the lawyers representing the city, David Pucino, legal director and deputy chief counsel for the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, said in an email that the settlement will make it harder for gun traffickers and other criminal actors to source guns.

Pucino added: Put simply, that will mean fewer illegal guns in Philadelphia.
Parents and children arrive for the first day of school at Bluford Elementary School in 2023. School support staff work hard and deserve to be paid a living wage, writes high school secretary Yura Commodore. Read more

School funding is a hot topic these days in Pennsylvania. The school district where I work was one of the litigants in a historic case that has prompted our elected leaders to work on closing gaps between the richest and poorest districts.

Thats a very good thing. But as important as funding is, our public schools would be nothing without the amazing support staff who go to work every day to help kids across this state learn.

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Im talking about the folks like me who work in the school offices, along with the paraprofessionals who care for students and partner with teachers. There are cafeteria workers, bus drivers, personal care assistants, custodial staff, maintenance crews, IT staff, and speech-language pathologists. The list goes on.

When we talk about school funding, we should be talking about these people, too, and how much we pay them for their essential work. Because the truth is that too many school support staff arent making enough to get by.

More than half of nearly 5,800 school support staff (56%) surveyed by the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) last year reported that they were paid less than $20 an hour. Of those, 13% earned less than $15 an hour.

Among the lowest paid are the dedicated professionals who work directly with students, including food service employees ($17.09 an hour, on average), personal care assistants ($18.04), and instructional aides ($18.70).

Low pay has helped drive unprecedented shortages among school staff. Its more than just a teacher shortage. Its affecting support staff, too.

The PSEA has been advocating for more than a year for legislation to raise the pay of support staff statewide. At the start of 2024, the association came out strongly in favor of a proposal to pay support staff a living wage of at least $20 per hour.

It must be said that $20 an hour should be a minimum, and in some parts of the state, including Philadelphia and its suburbs, that hourly starting rate should be even higher in order to be competitive with jobs in other fields, such as delivery truck drivers or Target associates.

School support staff work hard and deserve to be paid a living wage. That is paramount. But we also must remember that support staff who earn enough to pay their bills and make ends meet will be more likely to stick with their jobs, providing our public school students with friendly and familiar faces year after year.

Paying a living wage will also show school support staff that Pennsylvanians see and value the important service they provide to our public school students. Lets face it: Without these hardworking professionals, our schools would fall apart.

School support staff are an essential part of the school community, working to ensure the needs of the whole child are met. Bus drivers bring kids safely to school and back home at the end of the day. Cafeteria workers make sure students have healthy meals to keep them going through the school day. Custodians and maintenance staff keep school buildings and grounds safe and navigable.

Im proud to be part of that team, working as a secretary for the past seven years in the front office at Penn Wood High School  Green Avenue Campus in Lansdowne. I work with some amazing colleagues throughout our school, but like most public schools in Pennsylvania, we have struggled with support staff shortages and high rates of turnover.

I do this work because it is so rewarding to see students learn and grow over the years, going from kids to teenagers to high school graduates. We are there supporting them every step of the way.

I am afraid of what will happen if we keep losing qualified, caring adults to jobs in other fields. What will that mean for the students I serve, and for students across Pennsylvania?

Lets not find out. Instead, lets take action. Encourage your state senator and representative to do the right thing by supporting legislation guaranteeing school support staff earn a living wage.

There are discussions about school funding happening right now at the highest levels of power in Harrisburg. Gov. Josh Shapiro has proposed a budget that takes the first step in a seven-year plan to address inequities in Pennsylvanias public school funding system.

Lets also talk about how we will use those funds to pay school support staff a living wage.

Yura Commodore is a high school secretary in the William Penn School District and a member of the Pennsylvania State Education Association.
People inspect the site where World Central Kitchen workers were killed in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, on April 2. The deadliest threat to aid delivery in Gaza is workers and convoys arbitrarily targeted by Israeli forces, writes Trudy Rubin. Read more

When Israeli troops killed seven aid workers from chef Jose Andres amazing World Central Kitchen operation in Gaza  six of them foreign-born  the White House and the Israeli government were finally forced to confront Gazas humanitarian disaster with more than words.

Almost overnight, under President Joe Bidens belated threat to condition U.S. aid to Israel over its treatment of Gazan civilians, the situation changed  at least on the surface.

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Israel doubled the number of trucks permitted into Gaza  proof that the limits on the number entering previously had been largely political. As David Satterfield, the U.S. special envoy for Gaza humanitarian issues, noted this week, the increased delivery doesnt make up for five months of something very, very different.

Yet, the threat of famine in Gaza  or worse  has not lifted.

On Wednesday, the top U.S. aid official, Samantha Power, endorsed the findings of United Nations and humanitarian agencies that famine has already begun in northern Gaza. That reality will only worsen unless Biden presses Israel into making a strategic, not tactical, shift in how it treats Gazas desperate civilians and aid workers.

Indeed, Israels indifference to civilian casualties has been a strategic disaster in its war against Hamas, turning even close allies into severe critics, while deep-sixing any chance of normalized relations with Arab Gulf partners. There is no sign, however, that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has any such strategic shift  or any clear strategy for a Gaza war endgame  in mind.

Because Israel refuses to let foreign press into Gaza, except in closely managed trips with minders, many Americans have no idea just how horrendous the humanitarian crisis is.

When the International Rescue Committees vice president for emergencies, Bob Kitchen, arrived recently in Rafah at the southern tip of Gaza, he saw a disaster zone that outdid most of the catastrophe zones he has visited in his decades as a humanitarian worker.

It was a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe, like Sudan or Yemen, Kitchen told me, just after his return to New York. Once a small town, Rafah was absolutely jam-packed with a million Palestinians whom Israel had ordered to move south from their homes in Gaza City or central Gaza. In other words, Rafah now contains more than half the population of the Gaza Strip.

They were camped out under plastic sheets, or in the rough, with their families on every square inch, living in upper stories of unfinished buildings with no walls, on the center medians of two-way streets, on the beach, without enough food, water, or any sanitation, Kitchen said. Palestinians are also camped in schoolyards, mosques, U.N. buildings, or anywhere they can find a clear spot of ground.

Kitchen and other nongovernmental organization (NGO) officials tell me that the main problems with accessing and distributing food aid and water were not theft by Hamas, but the complex, shifting, and arbitrary Israeli rules and inspections  often turning away whole trucks because one item was considered to have a possible use as a weapon  along with limited access points for entry.

But the World Central Kitchen killings revealed the deadliest threat to aid delivery: Aid workers and convoys are often arbitrarily targeted.

 READ MORE: Gaza needs humanitarian aid now  with or without a cease-fire | Trudy Rubin

What happened to those seven brave volunteers was more of a norm rather than the accident the Israeli military claimed in its apology. But when it happens to Palestinians  who have lost 200 aid workers to Israeli strikes  their deaths get shrugged off.

In the World Central Kitchen case, the movements of its workers after overseeing the unloading of 100 tons of food brought into Gaza by sea were specifically coordinated with the Israelis and took place on a road the Israeli military controlled.

They were targeting us in a deconflicting zone, in an area controlled by the [Israel Defense Forces]. They knew that it was our teams moving on that road  with three cars, Andres told Reuters emotionally, shortly after the bombing. This was not just a bad luck situation where oops we dropped the bomb in the wrong place.

An internal Israeli investigation labeled the tragedy a one-off mistake, dismissing or chastising officers and men who failed to obey military rules. Yet, aid organizations readily cite similar tragedies involving their Palestinian staff.

Mousa Shawwa, the logistics chief for the American humanitarian aid group Anera, was killed on March 8, along with his son, by a missile fired into his home as he returned from overseeing an aid delivery to Rafah. Anera, too, had cleared Shawwa, his route, and his home with the Israelis, giving exact coordinates ahead of time, I was told by its CEO, Sean Carroll.

Id like to know exactly what happens after they put [the information we give them] into the system, Carroll said. We are waiting for more assurances on the safety of our aid workers.

They have received no explanation from the Israel Defense Forces.

The Israeli press has reported on the laxity of Israeli rules of engagement in Gaza, with the use of an artificial intelligence system to help identify targets (a loosely worded Israeli denial followed, but the U.S. is supposedly looking into the allegation).

You get the idea of how loose those rules are (or how loosely theyre followed without repercussions) from the disaster that occurred when three escaped Israeli hostages approached an Israeli military unit in December, with their chests bared (showing they had no explosives) and waving a white flag, while yelling in Hebrew. They were all shot dead.

 READ MORE: Biden and Schumer are more pro-Israel than Netanyahu | Trudy Rubin

Most Israeli forces have withdrawn from southern Gaza for the time being. The broader civilian tragedy could escalate dramatically, however, if Netanyahu carries out his pledge to attack Rafah, where the bulk of remaining Hamas forces and its leaders are hiding underground. Biden has demanded that the Israelis provide safety for over a million Gazans sheltering there.

So far, except for talk about purchasing 40,000 tents, the Israelis have made no move to provide shelter for these Palestinians outside Rafah. Aid agencies say it would take months to set up camps, even if there were level ground available that wasnt littered with unexploded ordinance and was safe from attack. No such space exists.

I have never seen two million people cornered the way Gazans are now, starved, attacked, penned in by the sea and a big concrete wall [on the border with Egypt], and the world is allowing it, Kitchen said. Not only that, but the United States continues to send weapons and planes.

Israel has the right to self-defense, and the right to smash Hamas, but as Andres said: You cannot save the hostages by bombing every building in Gaza. You cannot win this war by starving an entire population.

The United States should not be sending more weapons to Israel until Netanyahu produces a strategy that follows the chefs wise advice.
The Phillie Phanatic shows off the Phillies' City Connect jersey next to a photo of Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper. The team will debut their new look tonight. Read more

The Phillies City Connect jerseys will make their long-awaited on-field debut on Friday night.

The City Connects were only officially unveiled last Friday in a big event at Citizens Bank Park. But the jerseys have been around for months now, after a leaked Zack Wheeler jersey appeared on eBay in January and ruined the surprise.

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Good job, Bryson Stott told Wheeler, per MLB.com. Way to post it on eBay. You could have posted it on Facebook and nobody would have seen it.

So how did the photos leak? Like so many of these stories, it starts with a shipping container and ends with someone cutting open an unloaded box and taking something for themselves  sneakers, jewelry, or maybe even an unreleased Phillies jersey. Heres more from Todd Zolecki ...

The Phillies heard that somebody at PortMiami had grabbed a Phillies City Connect jersey from a box, not knowing the significance of it. The person took the item home, plopped it on their kitchen counter, snapped a photo and posted it on eBay. If this person had opened a different box and grabbed a Wheeler powder-blue jersey instead, nobody would have been the wiser. But everybody noticed, including the authorities, presumably. Todd Zolecki, MLB.com

And so when they were officially unveiled, many, including the players, already knew what to expect. The light blue-to-navy gradient with yellow accents honors the Philadelphia city flag, and other Philly details include the Liberty Bell cap (with the skyline on it) and the LOVE patch on the sleeve.

 READ MORE: Will Spencer Turnbull stay in the pitching rotation when Taijuan Walker returns?

The jerseys have gotten mixed reviews so far, with some praising the unique design, especially the hat, but many didnt love the font, specifically on the numbers. The Phillies will wear the City Connect jerseys at every Friday home game this season.

The leak, however, turned out to be a good thing for the players, Wheeler told MLB.com. It gave them extra time to order their own matching cleats, batting gloves, and other accessories, ahead of Fridays game.

 READ MORE: Inside baseballs arms crisis: What can be done to curb the games spate of pitching injuries?

Its good we saw it, Wheeler said. It gave us a head start.

The Phillies are lucky to have their City Connect jerseys at all. Multiple teams, including St. Louis and Seattle, per Kyle Corwin, have struggled to get their alternate and City Connect jerseys shipped due to manufacturing complications with the changeover to the new jersey template, the latest in a long line problems in Fanatics first year of manufacturing MLBs uniforms.

Philly fans will get their first look at the jerseys in action on Friday night.
Dave McCormick, a Republican running for U.S. Senate, speaks to supporters at the February Wyoming County Lincoln Day Dinner in Tunkhannock, Pa. Read more

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Dave McCormick led a hedge fund that invested millions in Chinese companies that produced military equipment.

While McCormick was CEO or co-CEO of Bridgewater Associates, the hedge fund held more than $200 million in stock in at least 20 Chinese companies that were later sanctioned by the United States for being part of Chinas military industrial complex, Bloomberg Government reported Friday.

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McCormick, who is challenging incumbent Democratic Sen. Bob Casey to represent Pennsylvania in the Senate, has made a hawkish approach to China a key element of his campaign. Hes advocated for banning any U.S. investment that could benefit the countrys national security.

 READ MORE: Dave McCormick wants to ban China from these six things as he debuts more hawkish campaign tactics

In a statement to The Inquirer, McCormick said Bridgewaters decision to stop the investments after sanctions were imposed highlighted the need for stricter federal rules around China.

This shows exactly why its important for the government to crack down on China, the way Donald Trump did, which is something career politicians Joe Biden and Bob Casey have failed to do, McCormick said.

The sanctions against the Chinese firms were imposed by both then President Donald J. Trump and President Joe Biden in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

The private sector follows the governments lead, and in the case of Bridgewater, once the government issued its executive orders, Bridgewater complied with all its terms, McCormick said. I continue to fully oppose US investments in Chinese companies that the US government has determined are threats to US national security and I think we now need to decouple our economy from Chinas in strategically sensitive industries.

McCormick left Bridgewater in 2022 before his first run for the U.S. Senate. According to Bloomberg, the companys investment in Chinese firms grew during his time with the company beginning in 2017.
President Donald Trump talks to reporters during a tour of the Owens & Minor medical equipment distribution center in Allentown in May 2020. Read more

There are several reasons former President Donald Trump is doing a big rally in the Lehigh Valley on Saturday.

First, its a political battleground in a highly competitive swing state.

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Second, its home to a large population of Latino voters, a group Trump is trying to appeal to in his third bid for the White House.

And finally, Trump has a major election denier and donor from the region who appears to have helped organize it.

The rally at the Schnecksville Fire Hall is slated to start at 7 p.m., with doors opening hours earlier. The countys GOP chair told the Lehigh Valley News that organizers are expecting upward of 6,000 people at the outdoor rally off Route 309.

Trump is planning to attend a fundraiser in Bucks County earlier in the day. His Pennsylvania swing comes less than two weeks before the states primary election, in which the presidential contest will be largely formulaic, as Trump and President Joe Biden are already their parties presumptive nominees.

Trump will visit the state on the heels of a week in which he declined to endorse a national abortion ban, saying laws surrounding the procedure should be left up to the states. His former CFO, Allen Weisselberg, was also sentenced to five months in a perjury trial as Trumps lawyers aim to delay his pending trials.

Biden will make his own campaign swing through the state next week, with stops in Scranton, the Pittsburgh area, and the Philadelphia region.

Trump and Biden have polled extremely closely in most state polls. The most recent Franklin & Marshall poll had Biden leading by two points, within the polls margin of error.

Why are Donald Trump and Joe Biden focusing on the Lehigh Valley?

Schnecksville, about 10 miles outside Allentown, is in Lehigh County. The Lehigh Valley is a swing region in the battleground state, which Biden won by roughly 80,000 votes in 2020. Neighboring Northampton County is one of the pivot counties that voted for former President Barack Obama, Trump, and then Biden.

The area is in the 7th Congressional District represented by U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D., Pa.), who won one of the closest Congressional races in the state in 2020, fending off her GOP challenger by about 5,000 votes.

Several Republicans are lining up to try and defeat Wild in November.

Both Trump and Biden, aware of the regions importance, have made visits to the Lehigh Valley. In 2020, Trump visited businesses in Hanover Township and Upper Macungie Township. He previously earned an honorary degree from Lehigh University, though the school rescinded that in 2021 following the Jan. 6 insurrection.

Biden spoke in 2021 at a Mack Truck plant where he touted a Buy America initiative and more recently in January visited small businesses in Allentown.

How the Lehigh Valley became home to a key voter bloc

The Lehigh Valley region is also home to one of the largest populations of Latinos in the state  and an estimated 615,000 Latino voters, according to Pew Research Center.

Latino political power has grown in Pennsylvania as the population has expanded by more than 40% since 2010, according to recent census data. Much of the growth has been along the Route 222 corridor in Reading, Allentown, Lancaster, and York.

In 2020, Latinos in the region expressed some concern over Bidens outreach efforts there but he still won the Latino vote both nationally and in Pennsylvania. This year, polling shows support among the group for Democrats has slipped.

A March New York Times/Siena poll showed Trump making significant inroads with Latinos. Despite anti-immigrant rhetoric that Democrats have highlighted to try and deter Latinos from Trump, polls show Latino voters are drawn to Trump on the economy and border issues.

Pennsylvania will be a battleground for both campaigns. Earlier this month, a billionaire-backed conservative Latino voter outreach group launched. Bidens campaign started a Latinos for Biden effort, including Spanish and Spanglish TV and digital ads around the state and events with community leaders in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Vice President Kamala Harris also recently called into a popular Spanish radio station in Allentown.

Who is Bill Bachenberg?

Trumps rally is in North Whitehall Township, the same town where a political ally and one of the regions most powerful GOP boosters, Bill Bachenberg, has his business.

According to the Lehigh Valley News, Bachenbergs popular clay target shooting center, Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays, rented the fire hall out for Trumps rally.

Bachenberg is a former board member of the NRA and a tech company CEO, who chaired Pennsylvanias slate of fake electors submitted to Congress.

He is also alleged to have provided a $1 million line of credit trying to prove that the election was stolen from Trump. Hes since been accused of stiffing the firm on the bill after it failed to turn up any evidence.

Bachenberg wasnt charged in indictments against Trump and his allies alleging that they engaged in election interference, though he was subpoenaed by the U.S. House Jan. 6 Select Committee.

Bachenberg has made some political donations to GOP candidates in the past, campaign finance records show, but he became more involved in politics since 2016. He has said he knows Donald Trump Jr. through his involvement in the NRA, and has gone shooting with him, and in 2016 became a member of one of Pennsylvanias first pro-Trump PACs.

Hes kept a low public profile in recent years though one of the exceptions was a fundraiser for Trump in October 2020 when he took the stage, sidled up to a cardboard cutout of Trump and thanked veterans for their service.
Mexico City, Apr 12 (UNI) The Mexican government formally denounced Ecuador's government to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the police raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito on April 5, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena announced on Thursday.

"We want to test the international justice system," Barcena said alongside President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, at a daily press conference.

"We are experiencing a moment of extreme weakness in the multilateral world and in international relations. We see violations all over the world that affect not only diplomats, but the civilian population," she said.

Mexico's lawsuit aims to hold Ecuador accountable for breaching "the inviolability" of the embassy and calls for suspending the South American country as a member of the United Nations unless it offers a public apology.

According to Barcena, the ICJ could even rule on the matter to expel the country from the United Nations.

Police stormed Mexico's embassy in Quito on April 5 to arrest former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, just hours after Mexico granted him political asylum, prompting Mexico to sever ties with Ecuador.

"What we want is that a despicable event like the one that Mexico suffered, especially its diplomatic representation, is not repeated," said Obrador.

"That it is not repeated in any country in the world and that international law is guaranteed, that the premises, the embassies of countries in any nation are not violated and that the countries where the embassies are located be committed to protecting the independence and guaranteeing the sovereignty of those spaces. That is what we want," he said.

UNI/XINHUA ARN
This has never happened to me before, she said in the clip, as cited by the Hindustan Times. And for what? Something thats very emotional and very private, I never even spoke about it on social media.
What he put to us was that firefighters would not be able to go in and fight a fire were it taking place in or around these massive transmission towers, said Wild. So this is a huge fire risk in a part of the country that is bushfire prone.
Regarding ownership, Narayanan noted that the Indian government is required to reduce its stake in GIC Re by just over 10% to comply with minimum public shareholding norms. The timing of this stake dilution is dependent on government decision-making processes, with expectations of resolution potentially after the elections.
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Expressing gratitude and excitement about his new role, Roberts said: It is an honor and a privilege to be appointed chair of the board. I thank the board for its continued support as we work together to execute on our strategy and take the next step in FM Globals journey.
At InterWeb Insurance, our goal is to make the insurance buying experience as easy as possible for our customers. We searched for an organization that shares our ethics and focus on service, as well as enabling us to provide more products and services to meet our customers needs. As part of World, we will continue to exceed our clients expectations and help them grow with confidence, she said.
The grants will be awarded via two request-for-proposal cycles  the first one on generational impact and the second on workforce development and safety training.
This should come as great relief to many Florida homeowners who have been suffering through this insurance crisis, Strauch said. Florida Peninsula Insurances dedicated analytics team did their advanced calculations and recommended a 2% decrease in premiums. We are happy to be able to offer this reduction to Florida residents. The industry is showing indications of stabilization thanks to the hard work of our state legislators.
An artificial intelligence-powered chatbot created by New York City to help small business owners is under criticism for dispensing bizarre advice that misstates local policies and advises companies to violate the law.

But days after the issues were first reported last week by tech news outlet The Markup, the city has opted to leave the tool on its official government website. Mayor Eric Adams defended the decision this week even as he acknowledged the chatbots answers were wrong in some areas.

Launched in October as a one-stop shop for business owners, the chatbot offers users algorithmically generated text responses to questions about navigating the citys bureaucratic maze.

It includes a disclaimer that it may occasionally produce incorrect, harmful or biased information and the caveat, since-strengthened, that its answers are not legal advice.

It continues to dole out false guidance, troubling experts who say the buggy system highlights the dangers of governments embracing AI-powered systems without sufficient guardrails.

Theyre rolling out software that is unproven without oversight, said Julia Stoyanovich, a computer science professor and director of the Center for Responsible AI at New York University. Its clear they have no intention of doing whats responsible.

False Answers

In responses to questions posed Wednesday, the chatbot falsely suggested it is legal for an employer to fire a worker who complains about sexual harassment, doesnt disclose a pregnancy or refuses to cut their dreadlocks. Contradicting two of the citys signature waste initiatives, it claimed that businesses can put their trash in black garbage bags and are not required to compost.

At times, the bots answers veered into the absurd. Asked if a restaurant could serve cheese nibbled on by a rodent, it responded: Yes, you can still serve the cheese to customers if it has rat bites, before adding that it was important to assess the the extent of the damage caused by the rat and to inform customers about the situation.

A spokesperson for Microsoft, which powers the bot through its Azure AI services, said the company was working with city employees to improve the service and ensure the outputs are accurate and grounded on the citys official documentation.

Mayors Defense

At a press conference Tuesday, Adams, a Democrat, suggested that allowing users to find issues is just part of ironing out kinks in new technology.

Anyone that knows technology knows this is how its done, he said. Only those who are fearful sit down and say, Oh, it is not working the way we want, now we have to run away from it all together. I dont live that way.

Stoyanovich called that approach reckless and irresponsible.

Scientists have long voiced concerns about the drawbacks of these kinds of large language models, which are trained on troves of text pulled from the internet and prone to spitting out answers that are inaccurate and illogical.

But as the success of ChatGPT and other chatbots have captured the public attention, private companies have rolled out their own products, with mixed results. Earlier this month, a court ordered Air Canada to refund a customer after a company chatbot misstated the airlines refund policy. Both TurboTax and H&R Block have faced recent criticism for deploying chatbots that give out bad tax-prep advice.

Public Trust

Jevin West, a professor at the University of Washington and co-founder of the Center for an Informed Public, said the stakes are especially high when the models are promoted by the public sector.

Theres a different level of trust thats given to government, West said. Public officials need to consider what kind of damage they can do if someone was to follow this advice and get themselves in trouble.

Experts say other cities that use chatbots have typically confined them to a more limited set of inputs, cutting down on misinformation.

Ted Ross, the chief information officer in Los Angeles, said the city closely curated the content used by its chatbots, which do not rely on large language models.

The pitfalls of New Yorks chatbot should serve as a cautionary tale for other cities, said Suresh Venkatasubramanian, the director of the Center for Technological Responsibility, Reimagination, and Redesign at Brown University.

It should make cities think about why they want to use chatbots, and what problem they are trying to solve, he wrote in an email. If the chatbots are used to replace a person, then you lose accountability while not getting anything in return.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics New York
Seoul to host second global AI safety summit May 21-22

London, April 12 (UNI) The second global artificial intelligence (AI) safety summit will take place in Seoul May 2122, with South Korea and the United Kingdom "forging ahead with plans," the UK government said on Friday.



"The UK and the Republic of Korea are forging ahead with plans for the next wave of global discussions on the safe development of artificial intelligence, with the AI Seoul Summit set for May 21 and 22," the government said in a statement.
A former assistant principal at a Virginia elementary school has been charged with felony child neglect more than a year after a 6-year-old boy brought a gun to class and shot his first-grade teacher.

A special grand jury in Newport News found that Ebony Parker showed a reckless disregard for the lives of Richneck Elementary School students on Jan. 6, 2023, according to indictments unsealed Tuesday.

Parker and other school officials already face a $40 million negligence lawsuit from the teacher who was shot, Abby Zwerner. She accuses Parker and others of ignoring multiple warnings the boy had a gun and was in a violent mood the day of the shooting.

Criminal charges against school officials following a school shootings are quite rare, experts say. Parker, 39, faces eight felony counts, each of which is punishable by up to five years in prison.

The Associated Press left a message seeking comment Tuesday with Parkers attorney, Curtis Rogers.

Court documents filed Tuesday reveal little about the criminal case against Parker, listing only the counts and a description of the felony charge. It alleges that Parker did commit a willful act or omission in the care of such students, in a manner so gross, wanton and culpable as to show a reckless disregard for human life.

Newport News police have said the student who shot Zwerner retrieved his mothers handgun from atop a dresser at home and brought the weapon to school concealed in a backpack.

Zwerners Lawsuit

Zwerners lawsuit describes a series of warnings that school employees gave administrators before the shooting. The lawsuit said those warnings began with Zwerner telling Parker that the boy was in a violent mood, had threatened to beat up a kindergartener and stared down a security officer in the lunchroom.

The lawsuit alleges that Parker had no response, refusing even to look up when Zwerner expressed her concerns.

When concerns were raised that the child may have transferred the gun from his backpack to his pocket, Parker said his pockets were too small to hold a handgun and did nothing, the lawsuit states.

A guidance counselor also asked Parker for permission to search the boy, but Parker forbade him, and stated that John Does mother would be arriving soon to pick him up, the lawsuit stated.

Zwerner was sitting at a reading table in front of the class when the boy fired the gun, police said. The bullet struck Zwerners hand and then her chest, collapsing one of her lungs. She spent nearly two weeks in the hospital and has endured multiple surgeries as well as ongoing emotional trauma, according to her lawsuit.

Parker and the lawsuits other defendants, which include a former superintendent and the Newport News school board, have tried to block Zwerners lawsuit.

Theyve argued that Zwerners injuries fall under Virginias workers compensation law. Their arguments have been unsuccessful so far in blocking the litigation. A trial date for Zwerners lawsuit is slated for January.

Prosecutors had said a year ago that they were investigating whether the actions or omissions of any school employees could lead to criminal charges.

Security Issues

Howard Gwynn, the commonwealths attorney in Newport News, said in April 2023 that he had petitioned a special grand jury to probe if any security failures contributed to the shooting. Gwynn wrote that an investigation could also lead to recommendations in the hopes that such a situation never occurs again.

It is not the first school shooting to spark a criminal investigation into school officials. For instance, a former school resource officer was acquitted of all charges last year after he was accused of hiding during the Parkland school massacre in 2018.

Chuck Vergon, a professor of educational law and policy at the University of Michigan-Flint, told The AP last year that it is rare for a teacher or school official to be charged in a school shooting because allegations of criminal negligence can be difficult to prove.

More often, he said, those impacted by school shootings seek to hold school officials liable in civil court.

Lavoie reported from Richmond, Virginia.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Fraud Virginia
More than a decade ago, Kristin Fritz was struggling with pain in her spine and saw a rheumatologist recommended by her doctor at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston.

The visit with Dr. Derrick Todd started normally for the 37-year-old New Hampshire woman. But as Todd progressed, he aggressively groped her breasts, she said, to the point that he seemed to enjoy that a little too much.

Only last year, when contacted by the hospital about Todd, she realized a line had been crossed. And she was not alone.

I feel so violated, she told The Associated Press. I feel so ashamed of myself for not knowing better in the moment to do anything and to be like, yeah, this did feel wrong and I should tell somebody.

The Associated Press generally doesnt identify possible victims of sexual abuse, but Fritz allowed her name to be used. She is one of more than 200 women and several men who have joined a consolidated lawsuit against Todd in Massachusetts Suffolk Superior Court.

Unnecessary Exams

The lawsuit, combining several filed last year, accuses Todd of performing unnecessary pelvic floor therapy, breast examinations, testicular examinations and rectal examinations on patients.

It alleges that Todd  a former rheumatologist at Brigham and Womens Hospital whose specialty involves treating inflammatory conditions of the muscles, joints and bones  began abusing patients in 2010. It also accused several dozen other defendants, including Brigham and Womens Faulkner Hospital and Charles River Medical Associates, of knowing about the abuse and failing to stop it.

Its an extraordinary number of people who put their trust in Dr. Todd and who had that trust violated simply for his own personal, selfish gratification, said William Thompson of Lubin & Meyer, whose Boston-based firm represents most of the victims.

The other thing that strikes me about this case is how could this have been going on at the hospital, at the practice group for so long without somebody recognizing  that something suspicious was going on, he continued. Yet, they allowed him to continue to do this week after week, month after month, year after year, to more and more victims.

A lawyer for Todd, Anthony Abeln, said his client would not litigate this matter in the media, but he will defend his care as the case progresses through the Massachusetts Superior Court system.

In April 2023, Brigham and Womens received two anonymous complaints about Todd and launched an internal investigation. Todd was told he couldnt conduct sensitive exams without a chaperone. In June, he was placed on administrative leave, then terminated a month later. The hospital said it also notified the Department of Public Health, the state Board of Registration in Medicine, law enforcement and his current and former patients.

No Criminal Charges

In September, Todd reached a voluntary agreement with the Board of Registration in Medicine to stop practicing medicine anywhere in the country. No criminal charges have been filed against Todd but several former patients have been interviewed by law enforcement.

The Boston Globe reported last year Todd was under investigation by the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office. A spokesperson for the office said it would not comment on the case.

We are deeply troubled by the upsetting allegations of harmful conduct committed by Dr. Todd, the hospital said in a statement. We take our duty to care for our patients and keep them safe extremely seriously. We have, and always will, act decisively on any allegations of misconduct, as we did in this case.

The Charles River Medical Associates said it was never made aware of any complaints of inappropriate conduct by Todd and said it reached out to patients to report their concerns.

We are deeply troubled and saddened by these disturbing allegations and recognize the courage it took for these patients to come forward, it said in a statement.

Thompson said victims ranged in age from teenagers to women in their 60s. The lawsuit alleged Todd would gain their confidence, go beyond treating their rheumatic diseases and become their only doctor while conducting invasive, unnecessary exams.

Among them was a 33-year-old Massachusetts woman who struggled to find a doctor during the COVID-19 pandemic. She was thrilled Todd called to help her with symptoms of tingling and numbness in her arms and hands.

Over two years, Todd became her primary doctor and gynecologist and, the lawsuit said, the abuse intensified during her visits  including repeated vaginal exams. She said Todd would routinely comment on her body, ask her to strip naked and make sure she was unaccompanied during exams.

It honestly impacted every single component of my life because it just occupies every part of myself from my self-confidence, said the woman, who reported Todd to the medical board after discussing his behavior with her gynecologist and realizing something was wrong.

Since learning there were many others and that Todd would no longer practice medicine, she said a weight has been lifted off my chest though she struggles to cope. Even just thinking about work is super challenging, she said. Im really, really, really still struggling today, big time.

As for Fritz, she acknowledged the experience will stay with her for the rest of her life. But she takes solace in the fact that Todd is already paying a price for his actions.

You were a trusted medical professional in a world class facility. You abused and violated many, many, many patients. Its just not right, Fritz said of Todd. For me, justice is him never being able to practice again. Him never being able to do this to women or any other patient that he had done this to.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Massachusetts
Rosensaft Joins Alliant Insurance Services as Managing Director

Jodi Rosensaft joined Alliant Insurance Services, headquartered in Irvine, California, as managing director, advisory leader  representation and warranties insurance, Alliant Specialty, in the companys mergers and acquisitions (M&A) vertical.

Rosensaft, based in New York, has worked on complex M&A transactions for over 20 years as an M&A lawyer and, more recently, as an insurance broker focusing on transactional risk. Before Alliant, Rosensaft served as transactional risk chief strategy officer for North America at Marsh. Before joining the insurance industry, she was a practicing M&A/corporate and securities attorney with Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP in New York.

Victor Appoints McDougald President of US Specialty Business

Victor, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, appointed Tim McDougald, who is based in Boston, president of its Victor U.S. specialty underwriting business.

McDougald previously worked at Marsh for 34 years, serving in various leadership roles in New York and Boston. Prior to his current role of eight years as Marshs New England operations leader, he led Marshs New York metro risk management team.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions New York Alliant
Governments and companies that are lax on climate action should be worried since this weeks European human rights court ruling against the Swiss government improves the odds that other such cases could win at the top court, legal experts said.

The climate case  one of three decided on Tuesday  was the first to be tested at Europes regional human rights court. Earlier lawsuits filed over the last decade in courts around the world have mostly succeeded or failed at or below the national level.

A win at the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) sets a precedent for courts across the region. Given similarities to arguments made by the Swiss women who won, it also has direct implications for seven other climate cases that the ECtHR had put on hold pending Tuesdays rulings, legal experts said.

The two other cases decided on Tuesday were deemed inadmissible, and these failures may also impact pending cases.

The Swiss case ruling on Tuesday  where the court ruled that the Swiss government had violated the human rights of more than 2,000 elderly women by failing to do enough to combat climate change  served as a reminder that even human rights courts are open to arguments that challenge commitments to tackling climate change, lawyers said.

Its going to have a significant impact on the other pending cases before the European Court, said Tom Cummins, partner at British multinational law firm Ashurst.

There are seven lawsuits pending at the ECtHR that rest their argument on the same rights violation that the Swiss case successfully argued, including two that could hit the oil industry in Norway.

Others challenge climate policies and pacts in Germany, Italy and dozens of other European states. Some focus on the specific harms they say government inaction has caused them, including one where a man with a medical condition is suing Austria because he suffers mobility issues when temperatures exceed 30 degree Celsius.

All of these cases rely on the same provisions and same legal theories around state and government responsibility, said lawyer Sam Hunter-Jones at non-profit law firm ClientEarth.

Chilling Effect

Of the seven pending cases, two are against the Norwegian government. They argue that the countrys decision in 2016 to grant oil exploration licenses in the Arctic violates human rights by further committing to the release of planet-warming emissions.

A victory in either case could create higher hurdles and costs for new exploration/extraction projects, said Laura Houet, partner and co-head of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues at international law firm CMS. This could ultimately limit new oil and gas projects across Europe, she said.

Understanding what might happen with the Norwegian case, and others that are pending, is crucial, Houet said.

Norways climate minister, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, said his government was reviewing the courts ruling against Switzerland. In 2022, Norway had asked the ECtHR to dismiss the Arctic oil lawsuit brought by NGOs, citing its role as a stable energy supplier amid the war in Ukraine.

Equinor and Aker BP, Norways two-largest petroleum producers, have both won exploration permits in the Barents Sea. Aker BP did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Equinor declined to comment.

The International Association of Oil & Gas Producers said climate lawsuits were adding to a range of challenges facing Europes industry, which include complex legislation and high energy costs.

When you add climate litigation and such rulings to the list, it probably doesnt help improve Europes attractiveness for investors, a spokesperson for the industry group said.

Plaintiffs in the cases against Norway said they felt buoyed by the ECtHRs ruling against the Swiss government, saying the verdict offered signs their cases too could win.

The Swiss verdict should send shivers through the international oil and gas industry, said Andrew Kroglund, who leads the Norwegian Grandparents Climate Campaign, which filed one of the lawsuits.

We think that our case has been immensely strengthened, he said.

The other case against Norway was filed by the non-profits Greenpeace Nordic and Young Friends of the Earth Norway.

The head of Greenpeace Norway, Frode Pleym, expressed relief after Tuesdays verdicts, noting their case already had tested all national legal avenues. One of the two cases dismissed on Tuesday  a case brought by six Portuguese youth against 32 governments for their failure to rapidly cut emissions  was dismissed in part for not having done this.

A third human rights case arguing that Germanys climate plans are inadequate is also based on the Swiss case, said Jurgen Resch of the non-profit Deutsche Umwelthilfe, which filed the suit on behalf of nine teenagers and adults.

New Hurdles

Not all climate litigants were cheered by Tuesdays rulings. The European courts dismissal of the Portuguese case suggested several other pending cases could falter for similar reasons.

There are two lawsuits filed by Italian youths that target more than 30 governments, running the risk that they might be dismissed like the Portuguese youths case for attempting to tackle so many jurisdictions, said climate litigation expert Joana Setzer at the London

School of Economics

And in a pending case filed in 2022, five individuals are seeking to force Austria and 11 other European countries to withdraw from the international Energy Charter Treaty, which aims to protect energy investments including fossil fuel projects.

The ECT secretariat did not respond to a request for comment.

Lawyers involved in filing that case said they were concerned by the ECtHR taking issue with the fact that the Portuguese youth had not yet exhausted all legal avenues domestically.

This may also be relevant for our case, said lead lawyer Clementine Baldon. Though, we can argue that domestic courts have no competence to challenge states participation in an international treaty.

(Reporting by Gloria Dickie in London, Kate Abnett in Brussels and Ali Withers in Copenhagen; additional reporting by Gwladys Fouche, Nora Buli and Nerijus Adomaitis in Oslo; editing by Katy Daigle and Deepa Babington)

Related:

Topics Energy Europe Oil Gas
Canadas emergency preparedness minister warned Wednesday the countrys wildfire season could be more explosive than last year when it led to unprecedented smoke conditions across much of the country and into the United States.

Persistent drought and months of above-average temperatures have raised the risk of a repeat of last years record-breaking wildfires, prompting federal ministers to wave a red warning flag about the desperate need to address climate change.

We can expect that the wildfire season will start sooner, end later and potentially be more explosive, Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan told a news conference.

The Canadian wildfire season runs from May through October.

The 2023 fire season was Canadas worst on record, burning more than 15 million hectares and forcing more than 230,000 people from their homes.

Smoke from Canadian wildfires poured into the U.S. East Coast and Midwest last June.

A briefing document forecasting the fire risk for the spring shows conditions are already ripe this year for an early and above-normal fire risk from Quebec all the way to British Columbia in both April and May.

The forecast is based on having had a warmer than normal winter with minimal snow and widespread drought, particularly in the Canadian Prairies. There is also a high probability for above normal temperatures in April, May and June.

Human activity is typically the main fire risk factor in the spring, said Michael Norton, the director general of the Northern Forestry Centre at Natural Resources Canada.

That can include careless burning, campfires, fireworks and the heat from off-road vehicles igniting grass or other debris on the ground. Lightning becomes a primary source of wildfires during the summer.

Sajjan said Canada has been working for months to prepare for the upcoming season, and promised additional funding for firefighting equipment and training.

Photograph: The McDougall Creek wildfire burns on the mountainside above houses in West Kelowna, British Columbia, on Aug. 18, 2023. (Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press via AP)

Related:

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Wildfire Canada
The United Nations atomic watchdog held an emergency meeting in Vienna to discuss the increasing risk of an accident at a Russian-occupied atomic power plant in Ukraine.

International Atomic Energy Agency diplomats convened on Thursday to discuss safety at Europes biggest nuclear facility. The discussions followed a string of armed drone assaults on the site just south of the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia.

It indicates an apparent readiness to continue these attacks, despite the grave dangers they pose to nuclear safety and security and our repeated calls for military restraint IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said. Whoever is behind them, they are playing with fire.

Though the attacks didnt seriously compromise reactor safety, they represent a new and gravely dangerous front of the war, Grossi told Thursdays extraordinary meeting, adding hell travel next week to New York in order to convey his rising concern to the UN Security Council.

Russias state-owned Rosatom Corp. took control over Zaporizhzhia  home to six reactors built to supply a fifth of Ukraines electricity  in September 2022, seven months into Moscows ongoing invasion. The IAEA formally demanded Russia return the plant to Ukraine a month ago, citing concern over deteriorating safety.

Russia is seeking a formal IAEA finding that Ukraine is behind the strikes. Kyiv says its forces are innocent and blames the Kremlin for staging a provocation. No formal resolutions of censure were tabled before the meeting began.

Underscoring the seriousness of the attacks, the IAEA emergency meeting is the first called to discuss Zaporizhzhia in more than two years. Drone strikes on April 7 and April 9 hit the side of a reactor building and appeared to target communication links, according to monitors stationed at the plant.

The IAEA circulated a Russian diplomatic note showing inspectors assessing the damages. They appear to display spent bullet casings, a blood-stained pavement and damaged infrastructure.

Ukraine is home to historys biggest nuclear-power disaster, the 1986 meltdown at Chernobyl under the Soviet Union that rendered more than 1,000 square miles uninhabitable.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
The lawyers who negotiated a $600 million settlement with Norfolk Southern over that railroads disastrous 2023 derailment in Ohio want residents to talk with them before deciding the historic deal isnt enough.

They said Wednesday that the settlement for everyone within 20 miles (32 kilometers) of the East Palestine disaster is bigger than any derailment settlement ever made public, including the worst in recent memory when a crude oil train rolled out of control downhill, killing 47 people in Lac Megantic, Canada, in 2013.

Apocalyptic images from the derailment in the small town on the Ohio-Pennsylvania border inspired calls for railroad safety reforms and exposed lasting fears for the community. Three days after a toxic mix of chemicals caught fire in the crash, officials unleashed a massive plume of black smoke over East Palestine when they blew open five tank cars of vinyl chloride and burned the chemicals because they feared an explosion.

On Wednesday, the lawyers moved to address residents fears that the settlement wasnt enough, saying compensation would vary based on the severity of the derailments impact on each person. Several residents said after the settlement was announced Tuesday that they worried the money, once divided among many, wouldnt be enough to cover potential future health care costs should they develop cancer later.

This is not like your AT&T settlement where everybody gets two bucks. No, this is very individualized with respect to how close people were to the impact area, what their current situation is, whether they own, whether they rent  all sorts of criteria, said Jayne Conroy, one of the lead attorneys with Simmons Hanly Conroy.

That formula dictating how much each person receives is still being written, they said. And a federal judge would have to grant the deal preliminary approval before those awards could be calculated.

The deal does include a provision to compensate people for person injuries. Accepting that money would preclude a future claim over cancer or some other horrible illness that might develop, but area residents can decline the health money and still receive a payment for property damage.

Mike Morgan, one of the other lead attorneys in the case with Morgan & Morgan, said this settlement wasnt really designed to compensate for crippling health problems that might emerge later. But he said none of the experts consulted during the litigation expect this derailment to lead to a huge cancer clusters even with all the chemicals that spilled and caught fire  or even the vinyl chloride intentionally released and burned three days later to prevent five tank cars from exploding.

Morgan said its important to remember that this lawsuit wasnt about the massive cleanup costs that the railroad has already spent more than $1.1 billion on. There are separate lawsuits filed by the state and federal governments to address that.

Gas station owner Anna Doss said shes optimistic that this settlement will help the town move forward though shes awaiting specifics of how the money will be divided up. Like many others in town, Doss is ready to try to put the derailment behind her although her business is struggling. She lost one quarter of her sales last year, and now her retirement plan is up in the air because her niece who had planned to buy the businesses moved away to Florida.

We just pray that things go well and that everything that has been done is going to work to build a better community, Doss said.

Of course no one in East Palestine is immune from the fears that the derailment could lead to major health problems years from now. Tammy Tsai choked up when she said her and her husband had decided to cash out their retirements to move away, fearful of staying in the toxic community.

Were fortunate that we have some retirements, she said. But what about the people that dont? That want to get out of here, that are sick?

The fact that the settlement includes several larger towns around East Palestine had Tsai imagining residents walking away with only small pieces of the larger figure. She worries about any sickness worsening in future years and residents having difficulties getting compensated then.

She felt the settlement only benefited Norfolk Southern, and would hardly make a dent in their pocket.

The railroads CEO Alan Shaw acknowledged the deal would help remove some financial uncertainty for his company, but he argued during a presentation to investors Wednesday it would also be good for the town and help people recover.

This gives monetary relief to individuals and qualifying businesses that they can apply in a manner to which they choose, Shaw said. What it really does is it addresses a lot of the financial exposure that was out there for Norfolk Southern and our shareholders, and takes that tail risk out of it.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a new op-ed Wednesday that what the country really owes East Palestine  more than monetary payments  is to make railroads safer. He again urged Congress to pass a package of reforms proposed after the derailment that would set tough standards for inspections and trackside detectors while giving authorities power to impose much bigger fines.

If we get this right, their community will be known not only for the derailment that upended everyday life there, but for the lifesaving reforms that came next, Buttigieg said.

___

Former Associated Press reporter Brooke Schultz contributed to this report from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Photo: A family from Pennsylvania inspects the wreckage of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, US, on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023. Three weeks after a Norfolk Southern Corp. train crashed and caught fire in East Palestine, Ohio, releasing hazardous chemicals into the air and water, the towns residents have more questions than answers. Photographer: Matthew Hatcher/Bloomberg

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Ohio Pennsylvania
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first federal regulations on toxic forever chemicals in drinking water, setting tight limits that essentially require public water systems to all but eliminate their presence in American tap water.

The highly anticipated rules target six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, that are commonly used to make thousands of commercial and consumer products like semiconductors, firefighting foams and stain resistant fabrics.

PFAS are known as forever chemicals because they do not easily break down in the environment or in the human body, and they have been linked to cancers and other health concerns.

Here is what you need to know.

WHAT DOES THE RULE DO?

The EPAs rule issued on Wednesday under the Safe Drinking Water Act sets strict limits ranging from 4 to 10 parts per trillion for five individual kinds of PFAS, and includes limits for several other PFAS if they are present in combination in water.

All public water systems have three years to complete their monitoring for these chemicals and must inform the public of the level of PFAS measured in their drinking water.

In cases where PFAS is found at levels that exceed the standards, the water systems are required to implement measures to reduce PFAS in their drinking water within five years.

HOW DOES THIS RULE FIT IN WITH OTHER PFAS REGULATIONS?

The rule is the most aggressive regulation yet under the EPAs so-called PFAS roadmap.

The agency previously bolstered requirements that manufacturing facilities report their use and disposal of PFAS, and issued a rule preventing companies from using PFAS in new manufacturing processes without EPA approval, among other things.

Going forward, the agency is expected to finalize rules designating at least two PFAS as hazardous substances under the U.S. Superfund law, which could expose many industries to potential cleanup liability.

ARE LEGAL CHALLENGES TO THE RULE LIKELY?

Legal experts say court challenges seeking to block the rule are likely to be filed by manufacturers, business groups and potentially water systems themselves.

The challengers are likely to argue that the EPAs rules were crafted without adequately considering the cost of compliance or without adequate evidence showing the need for the rules, in violation of requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act and federal administrative law.

The National Association of Manufacturers, the American Chemistry Council and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said in comments last year to a draft version of the rule that it overstated the benefits of imposing the limits while underestimating costs. Water utility industry groups said in comments that compliance could cost water systems billions of dollars.

Texas, which has frequently challenged Biden administration rules in court, has called elements of the rule oversimplistic and said it would be difficult for small water systems to comply given the costs.

HOW WILL THE RULE BE ENFORCED?

Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, most states are given primary enforcement authority to ensure drinking water standards are met. The EPA typically gets involved when states are not enforcing the requirements or are otherwise unsuccessful in enforcement efforts.

State and federal regulators can issue administrative orders that lay out steps for water systems to come into compliance, file legal actions or fine water systems that are not meeting the standards. Experts say any future fines are likely years away, and would come after numerous warnings.

Citizens can also sue the government or water systems under the law to force compliance.

COULD THE STANDARDS BOLSTER EXISTING LAWSUITS?

Lawsuits brought by hundreds of water systems against chemical manufacturers accusing them of negligence and of creating a nuisance by contaminating water with PFAS have already yielded major settlements.

Last year, 3M reached a settlement worth $10.3 billion with water systems across the U.S. that will help pay to clean up drinking water contaminated with PFAS, while DuPont de Nemours Inc, Chemours and Corteva reached a similar deal worth $1.19 billion.

The settlements were a part of sprawling multidistrict litigation (MDL) in South Carolina federal court, where other pending lawsuits against manufacturers may ultimately yield more money for the water systems.

The new rule could make it easier for water systems that are suing or considering suing companies that produce or use PFAS near them for polluting waterways with the chemicals. Legal experts say that is because the rules create an unambiguous standard for what levels of PFAS in drinking water are acceptable, and so could make it easier for water systems to prove they have been harmed by the pollution.

Topics Lawsuits
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  Two Texas-based natural gas companies are being sued by Oklahoma, which alleges they fraudulently reduced gas supplies to send prices soaring during Winter Storm Uri, making huge profits while thousands shivered across the state.

The lawsuits are Oklahomas first against natural gas operators over earnings during the 2021 storm. The suits were filed against Dallas-based ET Gathering & Processing, which acquired Enable Midstream Partners in 2021, and Houston-based Symmetry Energy Solutions.

Both lawsuits seek actual and punitive damages, as well as a share of any profits that resulted from wrongdoing. Oklahomas Republican attorney general, Gentner Drummond, said his office intends to pursue additional litigation against other companies that may have engaged in market manipulation.

I believe the level of fraud perpetrated on Oklahomans during Winter Storm Uri is both staggering and unconscionable, Drummond said in a statement. While many companies conducted themselves above board during that trying time, our analysis indicates that some bad actors reaped billions of dollars in ill-gotten gains.

A Symmetry spokesperson said in a statement that the company adamantly denies the unfounded allegations in the lawsuit, which it will vigorously defend. A message seeking comment left with ET was not immediately returned. The lawsuits were filed in Osage County, Oklahoma.

The devastating storm sent temperatures plummeting across the country and left millions of people without power.

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach filed a similar lawsuit in federal court in December against a natural gas marketer operating in that state. In Texas, which was also hit hard by the deadly storm, the electric utility Griddy Energy reached a settlement with state regulators over crushing electric bills its customers received.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Windstorm Oklahoma
A home warranty firm is now prohibited from doing business in Georgia after a cease-and-desist order was issued, the state insurance commissioner announced.

Choice Home Warranty did not secure a $100,000 surety bond as required by law, despite warnings from regulators, Insurance Commissioner John King said in a bulletin.

The bond requirement helps ensure that Georgia consumers are protected in case a warrantor cannot pay out claims, the notice reads.

People that have purchased a home warranty from Choice will remain covered through the term of the contract, and no action is required from consumers, King noted.

Officials with Choice Home Warranty, based in Edison, New Jersey, could not be reached Friday morning. The company may be best known through its advertisements and website, which include pitchman and actor Richard Karn, of the Home Improvement television sitcom that was popular in the 1990s. Choice acquired another firm, Home Warranty of America, in 2022, according to a news release.

The announcement came two days after Oklahomas Insurance Department issued a cease-and-desist order against First Premier Home Warranty Corp. The firm has not been licensed to operate in the state, the department said.

Topics Georgia
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis this week signed into law a prohibition on local governments requiring worker protections from heat exposure, a law that could potentially lead to more workers compensation claims from stricken laborers.

At the same time, the state Department of Financial Services announced the arrest of a Miami labor supplier on charges of underreporting payroll to his workers comp insurance company. Jordan A. Novo, owner of Titan Industry USA Corp., concealed his true payroll to avoid more than $109,000 in premiums, Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis said in a statement Thursday.

Novo was arrested April 9 and booked into jail in Miami-Dade County. An investigation by DFS found that Novo and Titan had significant growth in payroll, but did not report that to the carrier, Technology Insurance Co. Novo allegedly was paid almost $2 million by contractors for labor services but told Technology it was less than that, authorities indicated.

DeSantis did not comment on his signing of the worker protection bill, House Bill 433. The Orlando Sentinel and other Florida news outlets reported that the bill was hotly debated in the Legislature this year. It was endorsed by business groups but strongly opposed by worker advocacy groups.

The issue arose after the Miami-Dade County Commission considered an ordinance that would have required construction and agricultural firms to ensure access to water and 10-minute shade breaks every two hours when the heat index breaks 95 degrees.

DeSantis also signed Senate Bill 718, which makes it a felony to expose law officers and first responders to fentanyl, the powerful synthetic opioid that has caused unintended overdoses worldwide.

Topics Florida
The California Restaurant Mutual Benefit Corp. is applauding upcoming changes in workers compensation classifications for Californias restaurant and hospitality sectors, The changes were announced by the Workers Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau of California. The update to the classification system is set to take effect on Sept. 1.

The update introduces six new classifications within the restaurant and hospitality sectors to reflect the diverse operations and risk profiles across the industry. The new classifications aim to provide a more accurate representation of risk, enabling fairer premium assessments.

Understanding the implications of the new classifications on policies and rates is crucial, Kaya Stanley, CEO and board chair of CRMBC, said in a statement. While the immediate impact on rates is expected to be neutral, the long-term benefits of more accurately identifying risks and performance cannot be understated. This reclassification will enable more strategic decisions regarding loss prevention, safety programs, and overall risk managementultimately benefiting the entire industry.

The strategic adjustment is part of WCIRBs ongoing efforts to improve the standard classification system.

CRMBC is a California self-insured group formed by restaurant owners for restaurant owners. The WCIRB is Californias provider of actuarially based information and research, advisory pure premium rates and educational services.

Topics California Workers' Compensation
Companies have just months to prepare for the Network & Information Systems Directive 2 (NIS2), advises Neil Redmond, director, risk and regulation, PwC Ireland.

This wide-ranging piece of new EU cybersecurity law will shake up how industries protect themselves, says Mr Redmond.

NIS2 takes effect on October 18, it is a key part of the EUs cybersecurity strategy and is in line with the European Commissions priority to make Europe, including Ireland, fit for the digital age. The NIS2 covers around 160,000 organisations across Europe including over 4,000 in Ireland.

Neil Redmond, director, risk and regulation, PwC Ireland.

NIS2 introduces greater cybersecurity standards (more stringent supervisory measures and reporting timelines) for operators of critical services and infrastructure, says Mr Redmond. In particular, NIS2 brings more of these types of services such as transportation, energy utilities, telecoms, water services and health services into scope.

Entities are classified as either essential or important based on their size, the sector they operate in and their importance to the public interest. Large and Medium enterprises may be considered essential entities. These are organisations in sectors of high criticality with in excess of 250 employees and in excess 50m in annual revenue.

Some of the essential entities covered by NIS2 include those in sectors like energy, transport, health, banking and public administration while important entities include waste management as a principle economic activity and postal services among others, he adds.

Recent PwC surveys suggest the new legislation is well-timed for Irish businesses. PwCs recent Digital Trust survey notes that 53% of Irish business leaders expect GenAI to lead to catastrophic cyber attacks in the year ahead.

At the same time, just 25% of Irish respondents to PwCs recent Risk Survey revealed that they plan to invest in upgrading critical cybersecurity systems compared to 30% globally. Ireland lags global peers in how companies are planning their cybersecurity.

PwC's recent Irish CEO survey revealed that 90% of Irish business leaders are concerned about their organisation's exposure to cyber risks.

With advances in technologies, such as AI, they are right to be concerned, he said. NIS2 is a landmark piece of legislation covering a much larger remit than just simply IT and has implications for other areas of business. We will see cybersecurity taken to new levels including how companies manage threats and risks to their business. Failure to meet the new standards may result in hefty fines.

Mr Redmond said the new NIS2 rules are setting a whole new bar of compliance. An essential entity is a company that provides a service that the country as a whole requires to be effective 24/7.

Companies under the remit of NIS2 must carry out regular testing of their cybersecurity controls and demonstrate a robust incident response and reporting system and crisis management processes, he said. The board needs to be aware and approve the adequacy of cybersecurity risk management measures in an organisation. They cant just accept what theyre told, they have to challenge and understand why they are taking a course of action.

Read More Broadband price hikes are on the way for Irish households

Under NIS2, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will be carrying out audits and inspections on a more regular basis, following a more proactive approach. For example, in Ireland, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will be able to ask an organisation for information on a regular basis.

Once the October 2024 deadline passes, the NCSC will carry out regular audits and inspections with the threat of sanctions and penalties to follow for non-compliance.

"With more stringent regulation on the way, there is no room for complacency," said Neil Redmond. "The Irish Government, the European Union and the NCSC are seeing that companies may not necessarily appreciate how cybersecurity supports the economy or their businesses.

"So trying to encourage companies to be compliant with the NIS2 gives an impetus to go back to their own Boards and stakeholders and explain its importance.

In our experience, some companies dont have the level of maturity that would be required to meet the new NIS2 obligations, he said. They really need to focus on an enterprise-wide programme, including all business units, so that they can sustain an audit and maintain cybersecurity resilience.

The arrival of NIS2 creates greater responsibilities for Boards to fully understand how their companies data is being processed and their technology is being used. Transparency is key and knowledge is power. Stakeholders really need to understand whats going on in their organisations.
Taking food waste and turning it into something nutritious and delicious is logical on many levels, creating a food product and an upcycling opportunity.

Brewers spent grain is a high-potential area currently being explored by several Irish food producers. A by-product of the brewing industry, spent grain primarily consists of the husk of the barley grain, which is rich in protein and fibre and low in sugar. With beer continuing to be Irelands favourite alcoholic beverage and the sizable increase in independent Irish microbreweries over the last ten years, plenty of spent grain opportunities are out there. CEOs and co-founders of Born Again Bites, Sunkyung Choi and her husband, Patrick Nagle, have focused on this with their innovative soft snack bites.

Choi, originally from South Korea and a senior manager with a US company specialising in B2B expert network platforms, worked in Shanghai and Hong Kong before moving to Ireland seven years ago.

Like many others during the pandemic, she decided she wanted to do something different with her life, in the food industry. It was already in her DNA: Chois father was involved in the restaurant business, organised food events, published a cookbook and wrote a regular column on healthy eating.

I was heavily influenced by my father, says Choi. I love food. I wanted to have my own business and do something related to food.

CLIMATE & SUSTAINABILITY HUB

Blazing a trail

A long-distance hiking trip with Nagle  whose background is in hotel and catering management and who also works in his family business supplying commercial hygiene and refrigeration equipment  was the spark for the company.

The couple travelled to Sweden for an epic 440k trek, the Kings Trail (Kungsleden), in August 2021, the path of which crosses the Arctic Circle. It was there that they noticed first-hand the impact that global warming was having on the environment. After the trip, says Choi, I started researching sustainability and discovered that waste in the food chain has a huge impact on climate change.

Her investigations led her to spent grain, much of which goes to animal feed, and the realisation that she could repurpose it into something nutritious for human consumption.

Its a perfect resource and I wanted to do something in the local area.

With support from Enterprise Irelands New Frontiers programme, Choi focused on bringing the idea to reality, giving up her job to go full-time in Born Again Bites in 2022.

CEOs and co-founders of Born Again Bites, Sunkyung Choi and her husband, Patrick Nagle

Based in Walkinstown, Dublin, she works with Rascals Brewing Company in nearby Inchicore. Co-owner of Rascals, Cathal ODonoghue, lets her know when brewing is happening and they collect the spent grain immediately. Rascals is the perfect fit for us, says Nagle. We can gather it [the spent grain] as it is coming out of the vat so its as fresh as can be.

Spent grain contains a lot of excess moisture, which can lead to spoilage quickly, so speed is essential. Choi gets around any issues by either freezing or starting the drying process immediately: the grain needs to be dehydrated and milled into flour before it can become an ingredient in Born Again Bites. The couple began with a peanut and dark chocolate snack cube.

The vast majority like it, says Nagle. Peanut butter and dark chocolate are an age-old combination, dates add another dynamic, and the flour that we make gives it a unique texture.

The spent grain flour is 30% of the total ingredients, ensuring the snacks are high in fibre and protein (14.6% and 9.3%, respectively) and that each piece from the 50g pack is unexpectedly filling.

Fuel to go

As a couple who enjoys long-distance hikes  along with the Kings Trail, over the last few years theyve walked from Bordeaux to Camino de Santiago, the Wicklow Way and the Dingle Way  theyve found that their product is the ideal snack for fueling long days of walking.

With Born Again Bites, the aim was to create an easy-to-use product that encouraged consumers to participate in the circular food economy.

We wanted to create something that people could grab off the shelf, with no additives, preservatives, e-numbers, or added protein powder, says Choi.

The product is also vegan, accidentally, laughs Choi, containing no animal products. They plan to add more flavours in the future, including a chocolate orange version and a berry option.

With more attention than ever on food waste, Choi and Nagle have found a way of realising the potential of a waste product and putting it to good use in a way that conserves resources. Ireland has a lot of brewers spent grain available; any new product that can upcycle this nutritious yet underused, potential foodstuff is a step towards a more sustainable future. Its good news for everyone when its delicious, too.

See @BornAgainBites on Instagram or online at well-spent-grain.com
Next week, scholars and admirers gather in Cork for a conference to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the publication of The Hidden Ireland, Daniel Corkerys famed account of Munster Gaelic poets of the 18th century.

How did a book on what could sound like an esoteric backwater of Irish literary studies achieve such prominence when it was published? Why, a hundred years later, is it still considered worthy of attention?

To begin answering those questions, lets start with Daniel Corkery himself. Who was he?

A landmark study by Dr Patrick Maume (who will speak at next weeks conference) begins:

Daniel Corkery was born on February 14, 1878, in a thatched house (since demolished) at the foot of Gardiners Hill on what was the northern fringe of Cork city.

He was one of five children born to William Corkery, whose family had been carpenters in Cork for five generations, and his wife (nee Mary Barron) daughter of a Waterford sea-captain lost at sea.

Daniel was born with a bone deformity which left his left leg shorter than his right; all his life he walked with a stick.

After her husbands early death, Mary moved the family to Barrack Street where she kept a shop, and after that to The Lough.

Corkerys was an urban childhood with no connections to the countryside and the language.

When he was 12, he saw a sign in Gaelic script. He thought it was Chinese.

A bookish boy, Corkery grew up to be a teacher, in a career that took him from St Franciss School on North Main Street to a professorship at UCC, and a writer whose output included plays, short stories, a novel set in Cork, The Threshold of Quiet, as well as literary and cultural criticism most notably, The Hidden Ireland.

Frank OConnor was a pupil of his whom he later mentored as a writer, along with Sean O Faolain. He was a close friend of Terence MacSwiney and later Sean O Riordain.

Corkery was to fall out badly with OConnor and O Faolain about the direction of Irish literature and culture, with the younger men objecting to what they saw as their mentors excessive nativism.

Still, after he died on New Years Eve, 1964, O Riordain would record in his diary that Corks intellectuals had lived in his shadow as Dunchaoin lives in the shadow of Sliabh an Iolair.

Corkery had an ambivalent relationship with the city of his birth. As The Hidden Ireland reveals, he came to see it as a much lesser site of culture than, say, the little hamlet of Whitechurch, six miles outside.

There, in the 18th century, a humble Court of Poetry, under Diarmuid Mac Carrthaigh, clung to existence, part of a network of song laid over the land, especially Munster.

According to Corkery, to see the Irish-language poetry of the 18th century against the dark world it emerged from is to be astonished, if not dazzled.

And here, once more, he holds nothing back in attempting to convey the greatness of these poems, as he saw it: An aisling by Aodhagan O Rathaille is compared to some perfect movement of a Mozart sonata, and the poet himself to Dante.

The south-west corner of Munster was the Attica of Irish Ireland and Sliabh Luachra its Hymettus.

Corkery believed that this literature provided a gateway to a world into which the beleaguered OConnells of Derrynane or the OConnors of Castlerea could retire, along with the McDermotts of County Sligo or the OCallaghans of North Cork, all their followers and dependants, and the cabin dwellers also.

His eulogising of the talents of Eoghan Ruadh O Suilleabhain provides a fine example of Corkerys eloquence and of the raptures older Gaelic poetry appeared to induce in him:

In not even one song, one verse, does he go astray in the whirlwind he has raised about him, or forget his destination.

No other lines were ever more spontaneous, free-running, unburdened, triumphant, carrying their message to the very gate intended, laying it there on the threshold of our consciousness, clean and beautiful.

Corkery scouted out Gaelic exceptionalism in all its guises: the bardic schools, Brehon law, unique poetic forms (including the aisling), and the Courts of Poetry.

The latter, impromptu gatherings of all of the poets in a particular area, maintained among the common people the idea of the humanities.

Corkery could claim that by evolving and maintaining these courts the literary tradition of the Gaels did its utmost to ensure that its legatees should, at least on occasions, assume their higher selves, their fuller humanity, should put off the mere delver of the earth, should raise themselves, should extend themselves  and here Corkery imports some lines translated from a poem by sometime farm-labourer and one-time Royal Navy seaman, Eoghan Ruadh O Suilleabhain  to the contemplations of the adventurous ways of Death, or to the vision of the burning towers of Ilium.

Corkery could certainly adopt positions that some might perceive as idiosyncratic: in The Hidden Ireland, for instance, he repeatedly argues that the Renaissance had been a disaster for European art and culture, thus agreeing with the stance taken in De Profundis by Oscar Wilde (whom he praises in a footnote).

Later scholarship has shown some of Corkerys assumptions to be faulty or premature or in need of qualification.

Yet, even if it were entirely made up, the story he is telling, and the manner in which he tells it, would still be spellbinding.

Part of the allure of The Hidden Ireland is the romance inherent in championing the greatness of a scorned, beaten-down people, impoverished and near-invisible to the wider world.

In this respect, one might say Corkerys book provides a kind of counterpoint to the view contained in a speech WB Yeats made in the Seanad in 1925, when the poet-Senator called the Anglo-Irish tribe from which he had sprung one of the great stocks of Europe.

We are the people of Burke, Yeats proclaimed, we are the people of Grattan; we are the people of Swift, the people of Emmet, the people of Parnell. We have created the most of the modern literature of this country. We have created the best of its political intelligence.

It was an easy thing, of course, for Yeats to valorise his stock with a roll call of great names from history. For Corkery, this was a far more difficult feat, but he pulls it off.

One puts down The Hidden Ireland convinced that O Rathaille and O Suilleabhain and the rest were themselves, to use Yeatss famous phrase, no petty people. Daniel OConnell, of course, erupted out of this stock to seize the reins of Irish life for a time at least.

Corkery would want the last word to go to one of the poets. Here then is the opening stanza of an aisling by Aodhagan O Rathaille:

Gile na gile do chonnarc ar slighe i n-uaigneas;

Criostal an chriostail a guirm-ruisc rinn-uainne;

Binneas an bhinnis a friotal nar chrion-ghruamdha;

Deirge is finne do fionnadh n-a grios-ghruadhnaibh.

For a translation, turn to chapter seven of The Hidden Ireland.

Daniel Corkery: The Hidden Ireland  A Hundred Years On is a conference being held next Saturday in the Imperial Hotel, Cork. See eventbrite.ie for details.
Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney has said there is an ongoing war on truth, journalists, and women.

The barrister and her husband, Hollywood actor George Clooney, spoke at the 2024 Skoll World Forum in Oxford about their work with Clooney Foundation For Justice, which they co-founded and co-chair.

Addressing the audience, Amal said: Were living through a time when we have more violent conflicts than at any time since the Second World War.

And we see women and children increasingly on the front lines, she added.

In too many places there's a war on women, and women are still fighting the most basic battles for their freedoms.

I also think theres a war on truth and truth-tellers and journalists, and we need to fight against that as well.

In too many places theres a war on women, and women are still fighting the most basic battles for their freedoms, she added.

Describing what The Clooney Foundation For Justice does, Amal said: All of our programmes in one way or another, are attempting to meet some of these challenges.

And the way we do it is by providing free legal support to victims of abuses of human rights.

So we have a lot still to do. But weve had dozens of people freed because of interventions that weve made in individual cases.

Amal and George Clooney attending the Princes Trust Awards (Ian West/PA)

Weve also spent years sometimes trying to track down war criminals and gather enough evidence against them to trigger a prosecution.

So none of this happens as quickly or as simply as it should. But I think I speak for both of us when I say, and everyone at the foundation, when I say were as determined as ever to continue to do this work.

She later warned about a loss of womens rights and said: We see reversals in things like womens rights, not just in Afghanistan, but also in places like the United States.

Her Oceans Eleven star husband interjected: Arizona, apparently.

The state has recently revived an 1864 law that criminalises abortion throughout pregnancy unless a womans life is at risk.

George and Amal (Yui Mok/PA)

The Oscar-winning actor also spoke about how it is possible to bring awareness to issues through storytelling and revealed that he was called a traitor when he decided to stand against the USs decision to wage war on Iraq in 2003.

(The film) Good Night Good Luck I wrote because I was being called a traitor to my country by my own country for being against the war in Iraq, he said.

He added: The idea was anybody who spoke against the war in 2003 was a traitor, and it wasnt really fun. They were picketing my movies and all that kind of stuff.

He told the audience that storytelling is about finding a way to relate to people things that they can understand and not overwhelm them with peas and carrots.
HAVE you ever said, I needed that, after a fit of laughter on a night-out with friends? If you have, thats because laughing can make us feel lighter and happier. But it has many other benefits too.

Laughing may seem to be simple, involuntary, but it is a deceivingly complex mechanism. Scientists arent sure what makes us laugh or what we find funny, but they believe that it happens when the brains frontal lobe connects with the limbic system, an elaborate set of brain structures.

The frontal lobe is divided into two: The left side, where the brain decides if what were seeing or hearing is humorous; and the creative right side, which figures out if we find it funny. The frontal lobe sends a message to the limbic system, where our emotions are managed, to tell it we find the situation funny. The limbic system then triggers the physical act of laughter, which is a body and mind process.

Laughing is our natural stress buster, says Dr Sabina Brennan, psychologist, neuroscientist, and best-selling author of the book Beating Brain Fog. The chemicals it releases in our brains can improve our mood and increase our feelings of happiness.

Those chemicals are dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. Dopamine is the feel-good, pleasure hormone and is part of our reward system. Oxytocin is the love hormone, and it also regulates our emotional responses and social behaviours.

Serotonin balances our moods, allowing us to feel calmer and more relaxed. It also elicits feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and optimism.

Our brains release endorphins when were doing something enjoyable, like laughing. These natural hormones can reduce stress, enhance our mood, and ease pain.

This heady combination of hormones delivers impressive results. A 2010 study conducted among nursing-home residents and published in the Journal of Aging Research found that laughter therapy decreased chronic pain and loneliness and increased feelings of happiness and life satisfaction.

Irish people often laugh in the face of grief. Laughter is one of our strongest coping mechanisms. Traditionally, one of the first things we do when someone dies is to have a wake, where we tell stories, mostly funny stories, about the person. Stress and grief can be unbearable, and, by laughing, we can release some of that mental pain, says Brennan.

Laughter is also contagious: Hearing someone laugh can trigger laughter.

Laughing in a group, much like singing in a choir or dancing with friends, is bonding. It enhances relationship quality and strengthens social connection, says Brennan.

Dr Sabina Brennan, psychologist, neuroscientist, and best-selling author of the book Beating Brain Fog. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Bonding mechanism

According to British biological anthropologist Robin Dunbar, laughter allows humans to bond and live in large social networks.

Perhaps thats why laughter yoga is so popular.

While its not typical yoga, group-based laughter yoga does involve breathing work and light stretches, says Donegal-based laughter yoga facilitator Heather Peoples.

We start off with gentle movements and breathing exercises to loosen up the muscles. We then move on to some playful clapping techniques and chanting to get people to relax, Peoples says.

The goal is to cast aside your ego and inhibitions, she says. Well often start laughing by encouraging intentional or forced laughter. As the class goes on, and particularly because of the group setting, this laughter turns into real laughing, and becomes contagious.

Dr Madan Kataria founded laughter yoga in Mumbai, India, in 1995. From a handful of classes in Mumbai to thousands of so-called laughter clubs around the world, its come a long way.

Peoples teaches laughter yoga in schools, to those with multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinsons disease, and at corporations that use it to promote team building.

The beauty about laughter yoga is that anyone can do it, even those who may be limited with their movement, says Peoples. Its positive effects are universal: Ill ask everyone at the beginning of the class to rate how theyre feeling on a scale of one to 10, and at the end of the class Ill ask again. The number always goes up.

Hearty laugh

In addition to its mental-health benefits, laughter is also good for our heart health. Professor Marco Saffi and his team presented a study at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in 2023, claiming that people with coronary heart disease improved by regularly watching comedy shows, which benefitted their circulatory system, as compared to a group that watched more serious television.

The small study tested 26 people with coronary heart disease who were aged over 64. Those who watched comedy shows saw improvements in their heart health and blood circulation. Their oxygen flow increased, their arteries expanded, and inflammation markers in their blood decreased (elevated inflammation can indicate a higher risk of heart attack or stroke). The control group, those who watched documentaries, showed no changes.

Laughter can also be a good workout for your respiratory system. When you laugh, your diaphragm, chest, and abdominal muscles all tighten, which can force your lungs to work harder.

According to the American Lung Association, by forcing stale air out of the lungs, space is created for pulling fresher oxygen deeper into your lungs.

Peoples sees this every day in her laughter yoga classes. Without doubt, laughter is a workout for the lungs. Youre using your lungs to a fuller capacity when you laugh, not too dissimilar to keen athletes, she says.

My clients also tell me that they dont get quite as many colds or coughs as they used to before they started laughter yoga.

A school of thought is that laughing has a positive effect on our immune system. In 2023, Mary P Bennett and her team at Indiana State University showed that mirthful laughter noticeably improves our ability to resist illness. Their lab tests showed that laughter releases more natural killer (or disease-fighting) cells from the spleen into the bloodstream.

If laughing feels too much for you, why not start with a smile? Smiling has very similar benefits to laughing, says Dr Brennan. The interesting thing is that even if you just make the shape of a smile, your brain interprets that muscle movement as a genuine smile, and you can still gain the benefits.

Laughing may be a simple response to a joke or madcap scenario, but its impact on our bodies is remarkable, according to Brennan. The physical, mental and emotional benefits of laughing are significant, she says.

It helps us manage physical pain, stress, and grief. It boosts our feelings of happiness and increases our social connections. It really is the best medicine.

A giggle a day...

April 14 is International Moment of Laughter Day.

The day was dreamed up by humourologist Izzy Gesell in 1997 to encourage people to inject laughter into their lives.

For Gesell, laughter is one of the healthiest things you can do right after breathing. It relieves stress, instils optimism, raises self-confidence, defuses resistance to change, and enhances all your relationships, he says.

How to find daily moments of laughter:

Figure out what makes you laugh. Look through memes or funny videos on social media and bookmark those you find funny. Return to them when you need a good laugh;

Most of us have at least one funny moment in our lives that made us cry with laughter. When you need a laugh, try to relive that moment in your head;

Why not make someone else laugh? Hone a favourite funny story or learn one simple but hilarious joke. If youre in a group that could do with an injection of humour, break out your joke or story. Laughter is contagious.

In addition to your five-a-day fruit and vegetables, purposefully smile five times a day, urges psychologist and neuroscientist Dr Sabina Brennan. You should begin and end your day with a smile, she says. Smile with someone else, return a smile, and simply smile for no reason. Its amazing how it can make you feel lighter.

Ill leave you with this joke from my five-year-old: Two sausages in a pan. One says to the other, Hello. The other one screams and says, Ah, a talking sausage.
Kenmare River has multiple islands scattered up and down its majestic coastline. A coastline on a river? Well yes, as this river is a bay but oddly it retains its name and definition on the Ordnance Survey maps from the time when Lord Lansdowne owned most of the land in the late 18th century and thus guaranteed fishing rights for himself on the river. It is a bit like referring to a mountain as a valley or a river as a lake.

Recently, we visited the Greenane Islands near Kenmare. Further out the peninsula beside the famous Parknasilla Estate is a cluster of wooded islands including another Garnish Island (one of four), and Illaunslea where the writer Peter Somerville Large spent some time. Further out again, at Whitestrand Beach is another cluster including the subject at hand, Daniels Island.

The Irish for Daniels Island is not, as you would assume, Oilean Donal, but is Oilean Diarmada. That is hardly such a tongue-twister as to disallow it in favour of Daniel, but there you go. There is an alternative name on logainm.ie, Darbys Island, of which there are several others, including one not too far away on Lough Currane. Perhaps Daniels Island was named for the Liberator, Daniel OConnell, whose estate was just around the headland at Derrynane. Nearby Caherdaniel was named after a local ringfort, Cathair Donall and actually has no connection to the great man.

While we have several islands named after someones surname (MacCarthys Island and Ronaynes Island, County Kerry; Mulroneys Island, County Galway), we have very few named for someones first name: Rodgers Island at Castletownshend, County Cork and Jeremiahs Island near Baltimore, spring to mind. However, there is always the possibility that the Daniel in the case of the island is in fact a surname.

Several mountains tower above the coastline here: Beenrour, Mullaghbeg; Eagles Hill, and Staigue to name a few. Impressive as they seem from far down below at sea level, they are less than half the height of our highest mountain, 20km northeast, Carrauntoohil.

Daniel's Island on Kenmare River, County Kerry. Picture: Dan MacCarthy

Daniels Island is one of a quintet of small islands lying very close to the coast: the others are Illaunglas, Illaunnanoon, Illaunacummig, and Illaunakeesha. Daniels Island is the odd one out, as it is not named illaun something. Its three acres of fern, heather, and gorse; and the second largest island of the group, behind Illaunacummigs seven acres. Daniels standout feature is a deep cut on its southeastern side carved out by a persistent sea. The island is only 11metres high but when seen by itself from the vantage point of a kayak that does seem sizeable. Perspective is all.

Daniels Island was the subject of a bizarre proposal in the 1960s for the purchase of the island and construction of a holiday home by the trades unions for the children of hospitalised, deceased, and people of lower income. Though obviously well-intentioned, hundreds of more hospitable locations for such a venture suggest themselves. And considering there is no pier on the island and no fresh water, this would have been a venture doomed to failure.

The presence of numerous lichens is indicative of very clean air and Daniels Island has some gorgeous examples which decorate its rocks more impressively than any artists palette could manage: the pale green Ramalina cuspidata with its sinuous, wavy arms; the bright white splotches of Arthonia varians; the ubiquitous Xanthoria parietina, which is otherwise known as maritime sunburst lichen.

You will not be going for a sunny amble on Daniels Island due to its rocky nature and miniature proportions, but it is a lovely spot for a picnic if you happen to be passing by on a boat. With its mini-meadows of sea thrift and staggering views across the bay to the Beara Peninsula, whose mountains flank the coastline like some giant exo-skeleton, there are a lot worse places to while away a few hours.

How to get there: Inquire at Oysterbed Pier or kayak from Whitestrand Beach at Castlecove. The quintet of islands is just off the beach to the east.

Other: logainm.ie; Evening Echo 13/10/1967
As I write this, it is the last week of my college semester, which means one thing: College ball season is well and truly upon us. You thought I was going to mention exams, assignments, deadlines? Not today, Satan.

Fear not: Those are worries for next week. Ive still got time for a miraculous academic comeback before exam week. But before that can get underway, Trinity Ball preparations must take priority. And by God, am I preparing.

All of this time being spent getting ready is the perfect excuse to procrastinate studying, essay writing, and assignment submissions. Ive got to figure out what Ill wear on the big day. Thats no small feat, but one Im valiantly undertaking.

This is not my first rodeo. You see, Im a second-year student now. Im a well-seasoned ball-goer. I made my mistakes last year, but not again. This time, I am determined to make it through more than one hour of the ball.

Saying that, do I have an outfit? No. But you have to understand something  Im just a girl. These things dont come together easily. Its a minefield of logistics that I have to coordinate and streamline.

Sure, the boys need a suit and a shower and theyre ready to hit the dance floor. Another relic of patriarchy  things are just not so simple for the fairer sex.

Heres a quick rundown of my to-do list before the night.

I have to find the dress. Easier said than done. It cant be too long, because then Ill spend the night tripping over it. It cant be too short, because Dublin is a windy place, and I dont want to scare anyone. And some form of jacket is necessary, because being outside at 4am is exceedingly cold, even if youve got a few drinks warming the system. Alcohol can only do so much.

The dress must also be effortlessly stunning, obviously. (Effortlessness is a deceptive word, theres nothing effortless about it.)

After that, its shoes, jewellery, bag, hair, makeup, nails. All while the lads throw on a suit. People think the invisible load only exists as far as domestic responsibilities go, but they would be mistaken. It extends to the college night out, too.

Im being pragmatic in my preparations. Learning from what went wrong last year. Strapless dress? Not a good idea. Dresses with straps or sleeves should be a legal requirement. I spent the night trying  and at one point, failing  to prevent the dreaded: My dress slipping down. But Ill say no more on that. You can fill in the gaps.

Next: Shoes, too, must have straps, to keep them firmly attached to my feet. When my friend fell in the crowd last year, she came out one shoe lighter. Sure, she had her Cinderella moment, walking through Trinity College with one shoe on. But its not so glamorous and fairytale-esque, in practice. Really she had one cold foot, one pretty useless shoe, and no Prince Charming chasing her down, in search of the rightful owner.

Safe to say, she got into her magic pumpkin (taxi) pretty quickly after losing her glass slipper. A girl can only get so far with one shoe. Even one who had a full bottle of wine before leaving the house.

Which leads me smoothly to my next learning point.

It is imperative, that one proceed with the utmost caution, when it comes to pre-drinks. People tend to gather in a mould-infested, bodily fluid-contaminated, soap-free, student kitchen to drink before heading out. It almost sounds charming. As long as you dont examine the minutia of said unclean kitchen.

And until you realise that, youll be needing a few healthy servings of vodka cran, so that the overwhelming odour radiating from the bin (that bin that hasnt been taken out in six weeks) doesnt actually bring you to tears.

And thats a slippery slope. Because whats the difference between five and 10 drinks? Doesnt seem like much in the moment, but youll certainly feel that difference the next morning, when youd sell your soul for two paracetamol and a can of Coke.

At this stage, Im fairly well-seasoned on the old college ball. Ive certainly had my share of learning moments, and Im not letting them go to waste.

But Ill try not to speak too soon. If theres a blank spot in the paper, where my column should be next Friday, youll know what happened.
A Romanian national who has been convicted of begging on the streets in Ireland 12 times has been given a suspended jail term on condition that he leaves the country.

Constantin Borcoi, of no fixed address in Cork, was given a total jail term of seven weeks which Judge Mary Dorgan suspended on condition that he would leave Ireland.

The accused said his wife and five children were still living in Romania and that he intended to go back and not return to Ireland.

On that basis, the judge suspended the jail term imposed in respect of two counts of obstructing pedestrians in Cork city centre by engaging in begging.

The 45-year-old already had 10 previous convictions for begging on the streets.

At Cork District Court, Sergeant John Kelleher outlined the background to the two latest offences.

Garda Raz Ghetau was on beat patrol on St Patricks Street on November 21, 2023, when he observed the defendant sitting on the footpath obstructing pedestrians with a sign saying Help me. Im hungry.

He was doing the same thing on March 7 this year on St Patricks Street when Garda Emer McCarthy encountered him.

Solicitor, Eddie Burke, who represented the accused on free legal aid, said Borcoi was pleading guilty to the offences and was anxious to return to Romania.

He has taken the appropriate steps to arrange his flight. He will return to Romania and not come back to Ireland, Mr Burke said.

Judge Dorgan said: I wish him well on his return to Romania.
Sunstein and Thaler in The New Yorker:

In 1968, Tversky and Kahneman were both rising stars in the psychology department at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. They had little else in common. Tversky was born in Israel and had been a military hero. He had a bit of a quiet swagger (along with, incongruously, a slight lisp). He was an optimist, not only because it suited his personality but also because, as he put it, when you are a pessimist and the bad thing happens, you live it twice. Once when you worry about it, and the second time when it happens. A night owl, he would often schedule meetings with his graduate students at midnight, over tea, with no one around to bother them.

Tversky was a font of memorable one-liners, and he found much of life funny. He could also be sharp with critics. After a nasty academic battle with some evolutionary psychologists, he proclaimed, Listen to evolutionary psychologists long enough, and youll stop believing in evolution. When asked about artificial intelligence, Tversky replied, We study natural stupidity. (He did not really think that people were stupid, but the line was too good to pass up.) He also tossed off such wisdom as The secret to doing good research is always to be a little underemployed. You waste years by not being able to waste hours. Managers who spend most of their lives in meetings should post that thought on their office walls.

More here.
The Garda ombudsman has been granted access to audio recordings of a court "melee" that broke out during a hearing related to Enoch Burke's dispute with Wilson's Hospital School.

Delivering the judgement of the three-judge Court of Appeal on Friday, Mr Justice John Edwards said that "disruptive and disrespectful conduct by some persons attending court" on March 7, 2023, had caused the court to rise and abandon delivery of its judgment. He said that conduct continued after the court had risen and "represented an uninterrupted continuum of unacceptable behaviour".

He said that the behaviour of those in court should be regarded as "part of the proceedings before the court on that day" and therefore the recording of that conduct "constitutes a contemporaneous record of those proceedings".

Enoch Burke, who was brought to court by prison officers from Mountjoy Prison, had stated that the recordings amounted to "covert surveillance" and to release them would be a breach of his privacy rights and legislation protecting personal data.

The court rejected Mr Burke's arguments, saying he had shown no evidence that he was engaged in any private or confidential conversation at the time. The court also pointed out that personal data may be used for the prevention, detection and prosecution of crimes.

The judge had also warned before delivering judgment that if there were "any interruption from any quarter", the court would rise and the judgment would be delivered electronically.

Mr Burke was a respondent before the Court of Appeal in an application by the Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission (Gsoc) who sought access to digital audio recordings of a previous appeal court hearing involving Mr Burke on March 7 last year.

During those proceedings, a "melee" arose when members of the Burke family began shouting and were forcibly removed by gardai. Arising from that, Enoch's brother Simeon Burke (24) was arrested and later convicted of an offence under the Public Order Act for engaging in threatening, insulting and abusive words and behaviour on or about the Four Courts, Inns Quay.

Gsoc investigation

Both Simeon Burke and Ammi Burke have made a complaint to Gsoc about their treatment by gardai on that occasion and Gsoc is carrying out an investigation into alleged assault causing harm by members of the force.

As part of its investigation, Gsoc asked the Court of Appeal to release recordings of what happened after the court had risen. It has previously been explained that an "ambient" recording system remains on at all times, even when the court is not sitting. It exists in case the official audio recording system fails or is inadvertently switched off.

After Mr Justice Edwards granted Gsoc's application, Mr Burke rose to say that he was "appalled" by the court's decision. He also asked for access to the ambient recordings that are to be released to Gsoc, which was granted by Mr Justice Edwards.
A 73-year-old American man of books who is now helping at the library in Cork Prison will be sentenced on April 22 in a case where he applied for Irish passports in the name of two babies who died in the 1950s.

Judge Jonathan Dunphy asked the witness from the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation at one stage to repeat a part of his evidence at the sentencing hearing on Friday at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. Detective Garda Padraic Hanley replied: Yes, it is quite complicated.

The accused man  now known by his correct name thanks to enquiries through the FBI  Randolph Kirk Parker pleaded guilty to four counts of making a false statement to obtain a passport and one for having a false document.

The case concerns applications which he made for passports in two names, Philip Morris and Geoffrey Warbrook, and more recent applications to renew these passports. Both of those names were the names of Irish babies who died in the 1950s.

For a time the investigating gardai believed the Philip Morris name was the accused mans real name but it turned out that he was neither Geoffrey Warbrook nor Philip Morris  infants who died in 1952.

I arrested the accused on September 14, 2023, at the passport office on South Mall, Cork, when he was in the process of collecting a passport for which he applied a number of days previously  in a fast turnaround application  as he wished to leave the country. It was in the name Philip Frank Morris.

But on June 7, 2022, the same person had applied from Amsterdam to renew a passport in the name of Geoffrey Warbrook, believed to be falsely obtained. It was the name of an infant who died in 1952.

It was reported originally in 2017 and when the renewal application was made in 2022 it sparked an investigation.

It was believed that Geoffrey Warbrook and Philip Morris were the same person but that Philip Morris was the genuine identity and he was interviewed as such.

(Later) it was suspected that he may not be Philip Morris. He was also a person who died in 1952 as an infant. So we had two IDs for this person  two applications in the name of Philip Morris, two in the name of Geoffrey Warbrook  but we have no idea who this person is.

Numerous enquiries were made to establish the identity with Interpol. A number of weeks afterwards he was identified as Randolph Parker  from a 1970 arrest record in Michigan (information obtained through the FBI). He acknowledged this was his identity.

"He has been remanded in custody since September 2023. He was in possession of a previously issued drivers licence in the name of Philip Frank Morris (the false document charge), Det. Garda Hanley said.

Asked by prosecution barrister Emmet Boyle about the defendants attitude at interview, the detective said: He did not co-operate. He refused to answer questions. But he was affable and articulate. He refused to engage with the investigation We know very little about it.

"We believe he entered Ireland in 1988 (through Shannon Airport). He has travelled around Europe, lived in Amsterdam for some time. He had a VHI account here. He had a post office box at an address in Dublin.

He has numerous friends around Ireland who knew him by a different name entirely.

Brendan Kelly, defence barrister, said the accused encountered visa difficulties in the course of business activities and met a man with a knowledge of the Irish passport system who gave him certain advice on how to do what he did.

He has been working in the library in prison, Mr Kelly said. The detective said: That does not surprise me. He is a man of books. The defendant was not required to speak during the sentencing hearing and sat in the dock, his remaining grey hair tied back from his temples in a ponytail.

Judge Dunphy said he would make his decision in the case and deliver it on April 22 at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

Randolph Kirk Parker confirmed his signed pleas of guilty to four counts of using false information to obtain passports and one count of possessing a false document. The charges which are admitted all relate to the passport office on South Mall, Cork.

The charges of using false information to obtain passports relate to the following dates: September 12 to 24, 2012; August 7, 2013; June 7, 2022, and September 11, 2023. The charge of possessing a false document  namely a driving licence in someone elses name  relates to September 14, 2023.
Update, April 13: Eire King has been found safe and well.

Gardai have thanked the public for their assistance with the matter.

Update, April 12: Gardai are seeking the public's assistance in helping locate a teenage girl who has been missing from Cork since Wednesday.

14-year-old Eire King was last seen on April 10 in the Blarney area.

She is described as being approximately 5ft 4 inches tall, slim, with long light brown/blonde hair and blue eyes.

When Eire was last seen she was wearing her school uniform - a navy top, blue shirt, navy pants, black shoes and was carrying a black school bag.

Her family is concerned for her wellbeing and have requested Garda assistance in locating her.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Gurranabraher Garda Station at 021-4946200, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Taoiseach Simon Harris says that he intends to improve his Irish, but denied that it was embarrassing that Fine Gael had turned over the Gaeltacht portfolio in his junior ministerial reshuffle.

Patrick O'Donovan, the former Fine Gael holder of the office, was this week appointed to Mr Harris's old role in the Department of Further and Higher Education, with the Gaeltacht part of his former Office of Public Works (OPW) brief going to Fianna Fail's Thomas Byrne, who speaks fluent Irish.

Mr Harris said he intends to improve his Irish, but denied that Fine Gael had given up the brief due to a lack of options.

He said that Chief Whip Hildegarde Naughton could have taken on the role, but he had asked her to take on the role of junior education minister, overseeing special education, which he said will be a priority for his time as Taoiseach.

Read More Live updates: Government unveils new lineup of junior ministers

The Taoiseach denied it was an embarrassment for either him or the Government that the role switched parties.

"I'm very proud of the decision I made with the Tanaiste and the leader of the Green Party.

Minister Hildegarde Naughton could well have been the Minister for the Gaeltacht, but she has taken on significant additional extra work at my request in special education.

"It is no secret, because I say it on every occasion that I intend to prioritise in my time as Taoiseach and I wanted to elevate it to the Cabinet table.

"In the context of that and the importance of the Irish language, it made absolute sense that the minister of state in the parent department [the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport, Gaeltacht and Media], Minister Thomas Byrne would take on the gaeltacht portfolio.

"So this is about doing what is right for the country and the Government. Minister Byrne will be an excellent minister."

However, sources within the party have indicated that Louth TD Fergus O'Dowd had been offered the role if he reconsidered his decision not to contest the next election. Sources have also indicated that giving the role to Ms Naughton had originally been planned, but that her workload as Chief Whip had been considered heavy enough.

Mr Harris last week told reporters that he had been offered assistance by Conradh na Gaeilge to improve his Irish and will be working to do so.

I dont have very much Irish, and Im very honest in relation to that. I certainly intend to brush up significantly on it, he said.

Mr Harris's predecessor Leo Varadkar also worked to improve his Irish when he took office. He took an intermediate course in the spring of 2017 and was awarded a certificate bearing the name Leo de Varad.

He would later become the first Taoiseach to speak Irish in the Oval Office, telling US president Joe Biden:

"Ta athas orm bheith anseo sa Teach Ban, agus taimid buioch duit a Uachtarain don tacaoicht maidir le Brexit, agus do ceannaireacht maidir leis an cogadh in Ukrain. Ta me ag tnuth le do cuirt mor go hEireann. Beidh se cuirt den scoth, geallaim.
Ireland is set to recognise the Palestinian state this summer, with Taoiseach Simon Harris saying that the point at which it can be done is "coming much closer".

Mr Harris met on Friday with Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez, with the two indicating that Ireland and Spain would announce recognition of Palestine in lockstep.

Multiple government sources said that Irish recognition was likely to come in or around June, a timeframe which Mr Sanchez has previously outlined to his parliament.

The two leaders will both be at next week's European Council meeting in Brussels, where they will speak to other nations about joint recognition of a Palestinian state, but there is no expectation that all 27 EU states will agree on such a move.

One source said that some countries are "close" to joining the Irish and Spanish efforts.

At Government Buildings following his 30 minute meeting with Mr Sanchez, Mr Harris said the two had discussed the conditions under which Ireland would recognise Palestine.

Read More Ambassador welcomes plan for Ireland to recognise Palestinian statehood

That point is coming much closer and we would like to move together. The people of Palestine have long sought the dignity of their own country and sovereignty.

When we move forward, we would like to do so with as many others as possible, he said.

While over 70% of UN nations recognise Palestine, the West largely does not, meaning that Ireland and Spain would become outliers in Europe with the move.

Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez with Taoiseach Simon Harris in Government Buildings during his visit to Dublin on Friday. Picture: Paul Faith/PA

However, Mr Harris rejected the idea that doing so would reward Hamas for the October 7 attacks.

Its entirely possible to call out the horrors that the State of Israel suffered at the hands of Hamas while also saying that there must be an immediate cessation of violence  that the scenes that were seeing in Gaza in terms of hunger, thirst, mutilation, death of innocent children, women, men, the destruction of so much civilian infrastructure, hospitals, schools that has to stop." He added:

The only way forward here is for a political peace process that brings about a two-state solution.

At the joint press conference, Mr Sanchez said both leaders believed that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has "no clear peace plan".

"We both believe that the situation in the Gaza strip is terrible and it doesnt look like its getting better.

"Therefore we believe that the international community and countries like Spain and Ireland must be involved and seek to bring solutions to this terrible situation."

At the Fianna Fail ard fheis, Tanaiste Micheal Martin described the Israeli ambassador's statement that recognising the Palestinian state would be akin to rewarding terrorism as "absurd and unacceptable".
This week saw the landmark sentencing of the parents of a school shooter in the US after they were found guilty of involuntary manslaughter.

James and Jennifer Crumbley were each sentenced to 10 to 15 years for failing to prevent their son Ethan from killing four students at his school in Michigan two-and-a-half years ago.

On November, 30, 2021, Ethan, then 15, emerged from a bathroom in Oxford High School and began shooting.

Four students were killed in the attack: Madisyn Baldwin, 17; Tate Myre, 16; Justin Shilling, 17; and Hana St Juliana, 14.

Ethan Crumbley was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for carrying out the deadliest high school shooting in the history of the state

Six other students and a teacher were also wounded.

Last December, Ethan was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for carrying out the deadliest high school shooting in the history of the state.

But it was the trials of Ethans parents that garnered international attention as they became the first parents in America to be convicted over deaths caused by their child in a mass shooting.

Prosecutors claimed James and Jennifer failed to take reasonable care to prevent foreseeable danger.

Parents of school shooters have faced criminal charges before but for lesser crimes, such as neglect or firearms charges.

Prosecutors focused on specific instances where the Crumbleys failed to act in a manner that could have prevented the tragedy that unfolded.

The warning signs Ethan was enduring psychiatric distress, having hallucinations and contemplating violence were ignored.

When he came to them asking for help and to see a doctor, his father responded: Suck it up.

Despite being aware of Ethans mental health difficulties, they bought the 15-year-old a gun as a Christmas present. Four days later, that gun was used in the school shooting.

They failed to follow Michigans safe storage law that requires firearms to be safely secured if there is a minor present.

The day before the shooting, when the school told his mother Ethan had been searching for ammunition online, she texted her son: LOL, Im not mad at you. You have to learn not to get caught.

The morning of the shooting, Ethans parents were brought to the school for an urgent meeting after a teacher discovered a disturbing drawing the teen had done of a gun, a person who had been shot, laughing emojis and the words Blood everywhere and The thoughts wont stop. Help me.

The Crumbleys ignored the advice of a counsellor to take Ethan home and seek professional help for his mental health issues. The couple also failed to disclose the fact a gun had recently been purchased and was stored in the family home.

In separate trials, juries found the repeated inaction by James and Jennifer was enough for them to be found guilty of involuntary manslaughter.

Speaking at the couples joint sentencing hearing, Judge Cheryl Matthews of the Oakland County Circuit Court, said parents were not expected to be psychic.

But these convictions are not about poor parenting. These convictions confirm repeated acts or lack of acts that could have halted an oncoming runaway train.

In his victim impact statement at the sentencing, Steve St Juliana said: The defendants, through their choices, through their indifference and gross negligence, enabled their son to murder my daughter Hana and three other children.

The conviction and sentencing of the Crumbleys has been welcomed by many, while others have warned of the precedent that has now been set. Picture: AP

The conviction and sentencing of the Crumbleys has been welcomed by many, while others have warned of the precedent that has now been set.

The lead prosecutor in the Crumbleys' trials said she did not think the case would set a precedent for parents of other school shooters.

"There's a difference between precedent-setting and rare, and this is really a rare set of facts, it really is," Karen McDonald said.

"Most of us know that you have to exercise reasonable care at least to prevent other people from the dangers that you know are foreseeable."

The long-term ramifications of the Crumbley case are yet to be seen but, for now, it has raised the question in the US and beyond: Where does parental responsibility for a childs actions begin and end?

For child psychotherapist Dr Colman Noctor, it is a nuanced question and one that cannot have a straightforward answer.

Ideally, each case would be taken on its specific factors rather than arbitrarily choosing an age where children are responsible for themselves and parents no longer have questions to answer.

How old is old enough? Its really difficult to establish. How mature is mature enough? How irresponsible is irresponsible enough? said Dr Noctor.

Dr Colman Noctor: 'While there might not be legal consequences, there are consequences built in for not taking the due care and attention to embrace the responsibilities of being a parent.' Picture: Dylan Vaughan

Obviously, being a parent comes with a degree of responsibility to care for, to guide, to direct, nurture your childs values, and all of those sorts of things, said Dr Noctor.

There are instances where a teenager may be involved in anti-social behaviour or substance abuse despite their parents doing everything in their power to stop them.

Other parents will allow their children to do as they please with little to no oversight or consequence for their actions.

The common narrative of the parents are to blame is not always correct.

I think a crude measurement of if a child is under 15 or under 16 and they do something, a parent is culpable. I dont think thats totally fair, said Dr Noctor.

On the other hand, if you are not taking due care and attention to mind your child and get them what they need and access mental health services, whatever it may be, then there would be some consequence for parents in that situation.

Under the Children Act (2001) parents may be held responsible for the crimes of their children through fines and court orders.

This is often considered as a last resort, with many believing parents of children who are going down a bad path should be supported rather than penalised.

I always have that saying: parents arent always part of the problem but they are always part of the solution, said Dr Noctor.

You kind of need them on board so ostracising them or excluding them rarely benefits the child.

Criminalising a parent for their childrens actions has not been proven to prevent further bad behaviour by the child and there is no concrete evidence to show it is more of a deterrent than any other consequences that currently exist.

While there might not be legal consequences, there are consequences built in for not taking the due care and attention to embrace the responsibilities of being a parent.

It also must be noted the older a child gets, the more they are influenced by forces outside of the home and a parents ability to control them diminishes.

With access to the internet, children have the ability to access unsuitable content from around the world and can find themselves talking to all sorts of people. Even when a parent is closely monitoring their childs internet usage, they have no way of knowing what they may be looking at while out with friends.

From porn to graphic violence, children are being exposed to content that their brains are not fully equipped to understand at a time in their life when they are forming their identity and easily influenced.

Parents can do their best to teach their children good morals and monitor their activity and behaviour but the sad fact is that this is not always enough.

In Michigan, a case has been brought by survivors of Ethans attack against the school for not taking strong enough action to ensure the safety of the students in their care. Picture: AP/Paul Sancya

It is often said it takes a village to raise a child, so how does one decide what proportion of blame for a childs bad behaviour should be attributed to whom?

In Michigan, a case has been brought by survivors of Ethans attack against the school for not taking strong enough action to ensure the safety of the students in their care.

Should they have called the authorities when they discovered the troubling drawing or when the parents refused to take him home that day? Should they have conducted a search of his locker and bag?

As caregivers, should they also be held criminally responsible for Ethans actions?

School shootings and the Crumbley case may be extreme examples but it seems on our own shores, we are seeing cases of serious criminal acts being committed by children more often.

The conversation around who is culpable when these tragic events occur is an important one but we must also examine how those we hold responsible can be supported.
Cork developer, Michael OFlynn has secured the green light for a mixed-use scheme in Co Kildare despite an entity operated by serial planning objectors, the Callaghan brothers, lodging a submission on the project.

In the case, Kildare Co Council has granted planning permission to Mr OFlynns OFlynn Construction (Dublin) Ltd to proceed with the construction of 36 residential homes and two office/retail units on lands to the north of Caragh village.

The local authority has granted planning permission despite Michael Callaghan and John Callaghans self-styled NGO, the Co Mayo based An Lucht Inbhuanaithe making a submission on the scheme.

The Council decision reverses a planning refusal it issued in April of last year to Mr O'Flynn's firm for a housing development at the site which again followed the Callaghans An Lucht Inbhuanaithe making a submission.

The Callaghan brothers were at the centre of RTE Investigates allegations concerning payoffs to objectors in the planning system last November.

Asked to comment on the OFlynn planning decision on Thursday, John Callaghan declined to comment.

Asked does he continue to make submissions on planning applications, Mr Callaghan said: I dont have any comment to make - anything that is out there is on record.

Asked if he is still active in the planning arena in terms of making submissions, Mr Callaghan said: I am not going to answer that question - no comment.

In the An Lucht Inbhuanaithe submission, Micheal O Ceallachain told the Council that it must determine the application in accordance with all Irish and EU Law and National and EU policy.

In the submission made before the Primetime programme, Mr O Ceallachain said It is obvious that adverse impacts on the environment arise cumulatively in relation to high carbon footprint materials and inappropriate heating technology.

He said, Higher density should be applied even if it means developing only a part of the site.

Mr O Ceallachain stated that the application proposes 36 residential units on a proportional basis of the 366 units allocated to Kildare villages.

He said that the core strategy fails to define how many residential units are to be built per village or per plot of zoned land.

A local farmer, Peter Robinson objected to the housing scheme telling the Council that the adverse effect of the scheme will threaten the ongoing viability of my farming enterprise.

The Council granted planning permission for the scheme after concluding that the development would not seriously injure the amenities of the area or property in the vicinity.

When contacted on Thursday a spokesman for OFlynn Construction declined to comment.
A senior Chinese official arrived in North Korea and held talks on how to boost co-operation in the countries highest-level meeting in about five years, North Koreas state media reported on Friday,

Zhao Leji, chairman of Chinas National Peoples Congress and considered the number three official in the ruling Communist Party, arrived in North Korea on Thursday.

Chinas government earlier said he will stay in North Korea until Saturday.

Mr Zhao met his North Korean counterpart Choe Ryong Hae and discussed how to promote exchanges and cooperation on all areas such as politics, economy and culture, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.

Mr Zhao and Choe Ryong Hae, right at Pyongyang International Airport in Pyongyang (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

The two also exchanged views on unspecified regional and international issues of mutual concerns, KCNA said.

Mr Zhao is one of the seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee, the Communist Partys top leadership body headed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

His visit to North Korea marked the first bilateral exchange involving a committee member since the coronavirus pandemic started.

In 2019, the two countries held two summit meetings between Mr Xi and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Observers say North Korea and China are expected to hold a number of exchanges this year to mark the 75th year since they established diplomatic ties.

North Korea has been seeking to boost its co-operation with China and Russia in the face of a standoff with the United States and South Korea over the Norths advancing nuclear programme.

China, North Koreas biggest aid benefactor, is believed to have long provided clandestine assistance to North Korea in violation of international sanctions.

Mr Kim traveled to Russia in September for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The US, South Korea and others accuse North Korea of supplying conventional weapons for Russias war in Ukraine in return for advanced weapons technologies and other support.
Malis ruling junta has banned the media from reporting on activities of political parties and associations, a day after suspending all political activities in the country until further notice.

Thursdays order, issued by Malis high authority for communication, was distributed on social media. The notice said it applied to all forms of the media, including television, radio, online and print newspapers.

Mali has experienced two coups since 2020, leading a wave of political instability that has swept across West and Central Africa in recent years.

Along with its political troubles, the country is also in the grip of a worsening insurgency by militants linked to al Qaida and the so-called Islamic State.

The scope of the ban  or how it would be applied in practise  was not immediately clear. It was also not known if journalists would still be allowed to report on issues such as the economy, which are closely tied to politics and who would monitor their work.

The umbrella organisation that represents journalists in Mali responded with an unusually stern rebuttal.

The group, known as Maison de le Press, said it rejects the order and called on journalists to continue to report on politics in Mali.

It also urged them to stand tall, remain unified and to mobilise to defend the right of citizens to have access to information.

Malis national commission for human rights also expressed regret and profound concern over the decision in a statement published late on Thursday. It warned the junta the decision could prove harmful.

Instead of calming the social climate, these restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms could potentially stir up trouble and tension, which the country does not need, it said.

The clampdown on the media followed a similar action on Wednesday, when the junta ordered the suspension of all activities by political parties until further notice, citing a a need to preserve public order.

The news was broadcast on state television as the population was celebrating Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Analysts said the move was likely a backlash against political figures, civil society and students who have expressed frustration with the juntas failure to return the country to democratic rule as promised.

The United States said it was deeply concerned by the ban on political activities.

Freedom of expression and freedom of association are critical to an open society, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters in Washington.
President Joe Biden said that US defence commitment to Pacific allies was ironclad as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific.

The US and the Philippines have had a mutual treaty in place for more than 70 years.

Mr Bidens reinforcement of the American commitment comes in the midst of persistent skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea.

President Joe Biden, centre, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida attend a trilateral meeting at the White House (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)

The US defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. Theyre ironclad, Mr Biden said as he began three-way talks at the White House with Kishida and Marcos.

As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty.

Relations between China and the Philippines have been repeatedly tested by confrontations involving the two nations coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea.

Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

The so-called grey-zone harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim.

In 1999, Manila intentionally ran a World War Two era ship aground on the shoal, establishing a permanent military presence there.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, right, listens as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida speaks before a luncheon at the State Department in Washington (Cliff Owen/AP)

Mr Biden, in a wide-ranging phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, raised concerns about Chinas operations in the South China Sea, including efforts to impede the Philippines from resupplying its forces on the Second Thomas Shoal.

Chinese officials have bristled at criticism over their action in the South China Sea and blamed the US for exacerbating tensions.

No one should violate Chinas territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Thursday.

The White House billed the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines as a potent response to Chinas attempts at intimidation and said it would send a message that China is the outlier in the neighbourhood, according to an administration official.

The White House said in a statement that Mr Biden and Mr Marcos during the talks underscored their commitment to international law in the South China Sea and reaffirmed their countries treaty obligations to defend each other.

The leaders also announced joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific this year, a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in waters near the South China Sea.

The US Coast Guard will welcome Philippine and Japanese coast guard members onto a US Coast Guard vessel during the patrol for training, according to White House.

The summit followed Bidens one-on-one talks and glitzy state dinner on Wednesday at the White House for the Japanese premier, a diplomatic honour meant to recognise Tokyos growing clout on the global stage.

White House officials said they were aiming to send a clear signal that the Democratic administration remains determined to build what it calls a latticework of alliances in the Indo-Pacific even as it grapples with the Israel-Hamas war and Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Biden also hosted Mr Marcos for a private meeting at the White House ahead of the three-way talks.
The Kremlin has said that a draft Russia-Ukraine agreement negotiated in 2022 could serve as a starting point for prospective talks to end the fighting that has dragged into a third year.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that the draft document, which was discussed in Istanbul in March 2022, could be the basis for starting negotiations.

At the same time, he noted that the possible future talks would need to take into account the new realities.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, listens to Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow (Gavriil Grigorov/AP)

There have been many changes since then, new entities have been included in our constitution, Mr Peskov said in a conference call with reporters.

In September 2022, Russia annexed four Ukrainian regions in a move that Kyiv and its Western allies have rejected as an unlawful.

Mr Peskovs statement on Friday followed Russian President Vladimir Putins comments on Thursday, in which he mocked prospective Ukraine peace talks that Switzerland is set to host in June, warning that Moscow will not accept any enforced peace plans.

We are ready for constructive work, but we wouldnt accept any attempts to enforce a position that isnt based on the realities, Putin said during a meeting in Moscow with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, adding that the Istanbul draft document could serve as a basis for negotiations.

We can work with it, he said.

The document discussed in Istanbul weeks after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 reportedly included provisions for Ukraines neutral status and put limits on its armed forces.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to European Union leaders for more air defence equipment (Mindaugas Kulbis/AP)

No deal was reached and the negotiations collapsed soon after that round of talks.

Russia has dismissed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys peace formula which would require Moscow to pull back its troops, pay compensation to Ukraine and face an international tribunal for its action.

Putin has repeatedly said that he sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022 to protect Russian interests and prevent Ukraine from posing a major security threat to Russia by joining Nato.

Kyiv and its allies have denounced Russias military campaign as an unprovoked act of aggression.

Putin has vowed to extend Moscows gains in Ukraine, claiming that Russian forces have the upper hand after the failure of Ukraines counteroffensive and that Ukraine and the West will sooner or later have to accept a settlement on Moscows terms.
April 11, 2024



Under a new agreement, Idaho State University students and faculty will cooperate with their colleagues on the Korean peninsula.

Recently, representatives from ISU and Gachon University in South Korea signed a five-year memorandum of understanding. Under the informal agreement, the two universities will exchange faculty and students, organize joint research programs and conferences, and more.

"ISU looks forward to sharing our expertise while learning from others and we appreciate our new partners in this pursuit of new knowledge," said Martin Blair, vice president for research and economic development at Idaho State University. This MoU with Gachon University is a tremendous opportunity for students with different educational and cultural backgrounds to answer similar research questions from different perspectives.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our institutions commitment to fostering academic exchange and research cooperation, said Jongsung Kim, dean of the engineering school at Gachon University. Let us seize this opportunity to strengthen our academic ties, promote cultural exchange, and advance knowledge across borders.

One project already in the works will delve into advanced nuclear reactor concepts at the Center for Advanced Energy Studies in Idaho Falls. Working with Amir Ali, an associate professor of nuclear engineering at ISU and innovation laboratory lead at CAES, students from Gachon University will focus on nuclear thermal hydraulics and how energy is transferred in liquids inside a nuclear reactor, as well as how the transfer interacts with the reactors structure.

Gachon University's thermal hydraulics team faculty members and students share a similar research portfolio to the one I am leading at ISU and CAES, said Ali. Hosting the students from Gachon to work closely with my graduate students will be an excellent experience. I am excited about the program and the potential extended collaboration with my counterparts at Gachon University.

Earlier this year, ISU announced the signing of similar MoUs with Australian University (AU) in Kuwait and the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) located in Qatar.

Ultimately, ISU aims to pursue knowledge and discovery in ways that improve the human condition. Our Bengal responsibility is to Idaho first and foremost, but it also extends to the global community, Blair said. The modern world poses complex challenges and requires broader solutions. That is why we seek smart and trustworthy partners. While we have much to learn, we have even more to share."

For more information on Idaho State University and Gachon University, visit isu.edu and gachon.ac.kr/sites/eng/index.do.
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.
By Emilie El Khoury, Queens University, Ontario | 

The devastating war in Gaza is now in its sixth month, and the figures are alarming: more than 33,000 Palestinians have been killed. Almost one-third of the population is suffering catastrophic food insecurity and over two million (almost the entire population) have been displaced.

More than 9,000 Palestinians (including around 460 minors) have been imprisoned by Israel, and there are over 17,000 Palestinian children who have been separated from their parents. And most of the Israelis taken hostage by Hamas remain in Gaza.

As the war drags on, it threatens to spread to more countries. On April 1, Israel bombed the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, killing Iranian military officials.

Since the war began, Israel has been engaged in an undeclared war against the broader Axis of Resistance which aims to resist the United States and its allies in the region. The axis, made up of Iran and allied armed groups in the region, aims to support Palestinian groups in Gaza by engaging Israel on multiple fronts.

In Yemen, Ansarullah (commonly known as the Houthis) have launched a blockade of the Red Sea targeting Israeli-connected vessels. While Iran-backed militias in Iraq have launched attacks on American troops in the region. Most notable however is the involvement of the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, which has been directly engaging the Israeli military along the Israel-Lebanon border for months.

Al Jazeera English Video added by IC: Hezbollah continues to exchange fire with the Israeli army across the border

Who are Hezbollah?

Hezbollah was established on Feb. 16, 1985 during the Lebanese Civil War. The group was primarily founded in response to the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982 and occupation of parts of the south, as well as the disappearance of religious leader Musa Al-Sadr in 1978.

Since then, Hezbollah has grown to become a state within a state, developing a complex religious and sociopolitical structure. Its political wing holds seats in the Lebanese parliament, and the group provides vital public services in many parts of the country, thereby consolidating its support base. Militarily, it has a powerful armed wing of around 100,000 fighters, outnumbering the official Lebanese armys 84,000 soldiers.

After the civil war ended, Lebanese armed groups agreed to disarm as part of the peace process. However, Hezbollah did not, asserting that it will disarm when Israel is no longer a threat to Lebanon and when Palestinians are free.

Israels 2000 retreat from southern Lebanon, and Hezbollahs willingness to confront it, has gained the group the support of many in Lebanon and the broader Arab world.

Some western countries like the United States, Canada and Australia classify Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, while the European Union has designated only its armed branch as such since 2013. This stems from Hezbollahs alleged links to attacks on U.S. and other western targets in Lebanon, although it has always denied any involvement.

Border clashes

In his first speech after Oct. 7, Hezbollahs secretary-general, Hassan Nasrallah, stated the group had been engaging Israel since Oct. 8.

Hezbollah has deployed along the entire Lebanese-Israeli border, plunging southern Lebanon and northern Israel into a state of informal war.

The border deployment constitutes a violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war. While there have been skirmishes between Israel and Hezbollah over the past 18 years, they have always been contained and Hezbollah had not deployed along the entire border since 2006.

The group is not the only party to have violated Resolution 1701. Israel has regularly violated it including by destroying infrastructure.

Officials from Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged threats, heightening fears of a more destructive war. On Jan. 8, 2024, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant threatened to copy-paste the destruction of Gaza onto Beirut if Hezbollah does not cease its attacks.

In a recent speech, Nasrallah labelled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a madman, adding that Israel wants to wage war on Lebanon yet cant cope in Gaza.

Nasrallahs comments appear to be designed to indicate that any war in Lebanon could be just as disastrous for Israel. Hezbollah has the capability to target anywhere inside Israel with its missile arsenal.

Managing public perceptions

Lebanon is divided when it comes to support for Hezbollah. The country faces deep political and economic crises. The presidency has been vacant since 2022 amid political deadlock between political factions. Meanwhile, Lebanon faces an economic crisis that has pushed over 80 per cent of the population into poverty.

According to a November 2023 poll, 93 per cent of Lebanese Shiites had a positive opinion of Hezbollah, compared to only 34 per cent of Sunnis and 29 per cent of Christians. Support for Hamas was more widespread, with 79 per cent of Lebanese having positive opinions.

Since 2020, support for Hezbollah has strengthened among some Lebanese regardless of religious affiliations due to the welfare services it provides, however, that does not mean they agree with its politics or ideology.

The war creates more political instability, religious and social tensions, and further impacts the economy. As the economy and government services collapse, many Lebanese have turned to the humanitarian social services provided by Hezbollah.

This has maintained some stability and order amid the institutional disorder of the Lebanese state. Without these services, the system would risk further collapse, exacerbating the precariousness of the situation.

Pressure is mounting on Hezbollah to justify its strategy. To this end, Nasrallah has touted the impact of the groups attacks, declaring that Israel was losing in the north. Over 200,000 Israelis have been displaced, with many refusing to return out of fear of Hezbollah attacks.

However, southern Lebanon is also paying a heavy price. Over 347 Lebanese have been killed by Israeli attacks, most of whom were Hezbollah members, but also over 50 civilians. According to the International Organization for Migration, almost 94,000 people have had to leave southern Lebanon to flee Israeli attacks.

The agricultural sector has suffered significant damage, with over 800 hectares of land damaged by Israeli bombings. This situation has a devastating impact on the economy of southern Lebanon where agriculture is a major industry.

Given this impact on civilian life, it is imperative to prioritize diplomatic solutions that end the violence, with special attention to securing food security and the agricultural sector in Lebanon. Simultaneously, efforts must be made to establish lasting peace among peoples exhausted by conflict.

Emilie El Khoury, Postdoctoral fellow at Queens Universitys Centre for International Policy and Defence (CIDP), Queens University, Ontario

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Review of David S. Painter and Gregory Brew, The Struggle for Iran: Oil, Autocracy, and the Cold War, 19511954. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 2023.

Munich (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  The figure of Mohammad Mosaddeq, Prime Minister of Iran from 1951 to 1953, is an uncomfortable one for both sides of the US-Iran rivalry. For the US, Mosaddeq is a constant reminder that the dictatorial reign of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi after 1953 came into being with a US intervention to overthrow the constitutionally elected Mosaddeq. The US would provide strong support for the Shah in the coming decades. Mosaddeq is someone who challenged Western powers to defend Iranian national interests. This alone should, a priori, afford him a place of honor in the Islamic Republic established by Ruhollah Khomeini after his return from exile in 1979. However, Mosaddeqs nationalism was grounded on democratic secularist convictions that are at odds with the ideology of the Islamic Republic, which in recent years has shut down its already limited avenues of democratic participation within the system.

In their book The Struggle for Iran: Oil, Autocracy, and the Cold War, 19511954, David S. Painter and Gregory Brew revisit Mosaddeqs nationalization of the Iranian oil industry, the ensuing tensions with the US and the UK, and the Western powers final decision to remove Mosaddeq. As the title of the book already suggests, the oil dispute was the obvious point of contention but the early 1950s events in Iran would not have unfolded as they did absent the weight of much larger conflicts.

Among them was the desire of many Third World nations to manage their natural resources. In the age of decolonization, newly independent countries found themselves in a paradoxical situation. For the first time, they enjoyed political sovereignty but were tied to their former metropoles by long-term contracts to exploit their natural resources. Iran was never formally colonized. Still, the original oil concession Britain obtained in 1901, with very disadvantageous terms for the Persian state, had much to do with Persias internal weakness at the time. This fragility had been exacerbated by imperial competition between Russia and Britain for influence over Persia.

The oil dispute in Iran in the early 1950s took place against the background of an increasingly intense Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union. In a time of strong ideological polarization, there was little place for a leader such as Mohammad Mosaddeq, who followed a policy he called negative equilibrium as he did not want to align Iran with either of the two blocs.

Mosaddeq became prime minister in 1951 after the Majles (the Iranian parliament) decided not to ratify the so-called Supplemental Agreement negotiated by the Iranian government and the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company (AIOC). The British company, founded in 1909, had been exploiting Irans oil for four decades. The Supplemental Agreement fell short of what most Iranians demanded. The Majles appointed Mosaddeq as prime minister after his proposal to nationalize the Iranian oil industry was unanimously approved by the parliament.

When nationalization was implemented, British leaders became convinced that Mosaddeq would have to go for the oil dispute to be settled in terms favorable to London. In October 1951, after Iranian troops took over the Abadan oil refinery in southern Iran, the last AIOC personnel departed the country. Mossadegh had Irans oil infrastructure in his hands but faced the major challenge of keeping the oil industry running without foreign technicians. Finding export markets for the oil products was even more complicated as Britain imposed an oil boycott and sanctions on Iran.

Diverging from the British position at this point, Washington sought a solution that would restart the oil industry and preserve Iran from communist control while not endangering U.S. interests in the region, write Painter and Brew.[1] At the same time, the Shah did not dare make a move against Mosaddeq since both his political figure and the cause of nationalization were widely popular in Iran. US officials acted as mediators between Mosaddeq on the one hand, and the AIOC and Britain on the other. There was no common ground to be found, however. Mosaddeq argued that Iranian oil belonged to the country after nationalization. Consequently, he wanted international companies to buy Iranian oil at a price higher than that offered to other developing countries where Western companies controlled the oil industry.



David S. Painter and Gregory Brew, The Struggle for Iran: Oil, Autocracy, and the Cold War, 19511954. Click here to buy.

Mosaddeq was open to international companies returning to Iran to help operate the oil infrastructure as long as it was under Iranian control. British diplomats in Tehran sought to destabilize the Mosaddeq government and have it replaced with a new one that would be more amenable to British interests. The crisis escalated in October 1952, when Mosaddeq ordered the British embassy to close and its citizens to leave the country.

By the end of 1952, the US presented to Mosaddeq the so-called package proposal, which would have recognized Irans ownership of the oil industry but still envisaged Iran selling most of its oil to a consortium of international oil companies. The thorniest issue was compensation payments to the AIOC for Irans oil nationalization. As the authors note, the US and the UK insisted that payment could not be limited to physical assets but also had to cover lost future profits.[2] Mosaddeq rejected the package proposal. The reason was not that the Iranian prime minister failed to understand the specifics of the oil trade, as it has often been suggested. Rather, Painter and Brew argue, Mosaddeq understood very well the risks of being trapped in continuous compensation payments to AIOC if it agreed to the terms of the deal. Iran would have been in nominal control of its oil industry but, in truth, once again dependent on the British companys compensation wishes.

Painter and Brew situate the US decision to consider the forceful removal of Mosaddeq around April 1953. With the British forced out of the country, the US operatives in Iran stepped in to mobilize the Iranian clerical and political groups that opposed Mosaddeq as well as the military. Bribes were a common means to achieve the desired result. Although there was no love lost between the Shah and Mosaddeq, the monarch had to be talked into the coup by his Western backers as he feared a failed move against Mosaddeq could backfire. The Shah finally signed two firmans (royal decrees): one dismissing Mosaddeq and the other one appointing General Fazlollah Zahedi as the new prime minister. While street mobilizations headed by bribed local gang leaders took place in Tehran, significant sectors of the army carried out an operation against Mosaddeq on August 16, 1953.

The prime minister had been alerted of the impending coup and loyalist troops defended his residence and the army headquarters. After the failed coup attempt and the Shahs departure from Iran, the Tudeh Party took to the streets and used the opportunity to call for a republic. The US ambassador to Iran convinced Mosaddeq to order the police and the army to repress the Tudeh protests. As Painter and Brew remark, ironically, Mosaddeqs decision to crack down on the Tudeh, which illustrated his anti-communism and his desire for U.S. support, helped seal his fate.[3] On August 19, 1953, with the streets empty of Tudeh demonstrators, the army moved once again to overthrow Mosaddeq, who was not prepared for a second coup attempt. Soldiers took the ministerial offices and Radio Tehran, while Mosaddeq was finally captured. The former prime minister was later sentenced to three years of prison and would die under house arrest in 1967.

Although the Shah returned from his short exile and General Zahedi was installed as prime minister, the removal of Mosaddeq did not immediately solve the oil dispute. Nationalization was a popular cause in Iran, and Mosaddeqs forced departure from the scene did not change this. Negotiations dragged on until late 1954 when the Iranian government agreed to pay limited compensations and retain a largely symbolic control of its oil industry. The US sweetened the deal with a military and economic aid package of $120 million.

The Struggle for Iran partly draws on documents about the US role in the coup first released in 2017 and is particularly strong in covering the economic dimension of the conflict. Painter and Brews work helps debunk some of the most common myths about the coup. Although anti-communism and opposition to nationalization were strongly connected, the authors explain Washington viewed nationalization as the biggest threat. Successful nationalization in Iran could have resulted in other Third World nations following the same path.

Painter and Brew also note that it is unfair to portray Mosaddeq as an irrational and stubborn leader who was unwilling to compromise. Orientalist tropes were rife in contemporary assessments of Mosaddeq by British and American leaders. Mosaddeq was described as incapable of rational thought, dominated by emotions and prejudices, or a reckless fanatic, among many other condescending and offensive remarks.

Painter and Brew argue that the British were never interested in finding a negotiated solution to the conflict and used talks as a stalling tactic to buy time[4] for Iran to experience the negative economic impact of Britains oil boycott and allow covert actions against Mosaddeq to run their course. In The Struggle for Iran, Painter and Brew importantly reflect how the tragedy of the coup was not only that the US and Britain removed a constitutional leader in a foreign country, but also that the intervention halted the progress Iran had been making toward representative government. Autocracy was the outcome.[5]

[1] David S. Painter and Gregory Brew, The Struggle for Iran: Oil, Autocracy, and the Cold War, 19511954, (Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 2023), p. 64.

[2] Ibid., p. 129.

[3] Ibid., p. 170.

[4] Ibid., p. 208.

[5] Ibid, p. 212.
Vancouver, British Columbia  TheNewswire - April 12, 2024 - Leocor Gold Inc. (the Company or Leocor) (CSE: LECR, OTCQB: LECRF) is pleased to announce that due to overwhelming demand, the Company is increasing its private placement announced on April 4, 2024, to $1,900,000 and the placement is fully-subscribed. The Company expects the placement to close on or about April 18, 2024.

All securities issued in connection with the placement will be subject to restrictions on resale in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The Company intends to use the gross proceeds to advance the exploration and development of its gold and copper projects in Newfoundland, and for general working capital purposes.

About Leocor Gold Inc.

Leocor Gold Inc. is a British Columbia-based resource company involved in the acquisition and exploration of precious metal projects, with a current focus in Atlantic Canada. Leocor, through outright ownership and earn-in agreements, currently controls several gold-copper projects in prime exploration ground located within the prolific Baie Verte Mining District. Leocors Bae Verte portfolio includes the Dorset, Dorset Extension, Copper Creek and Five Mile Brook projects, creating a contiguous nearly 2,000-hectare exploration corridor. The Company also controls district scale land packages in North Central Newfoundland, known as Roberts Arm, Hodges Hill, and Leamington, (collectively Western Exploits) representing over 144,000 hectares (1,440 square kilometers) of prospective exploration ground.

Contact Information

Leocor Gold Inc.

Alex Klenman, Chief Executive Officer

Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Telephone : (604) 970-4330

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.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Such information includes, without limitation, information regarding the expected timing for completion of the private placement. Although Leocor believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.

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. Leocor cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by Leocor is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: the state of the financial markets for Leocor's securities; the state of the natural resources sector; recent market volatility; Leocor's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; and other risks and factors that Leocor is unaware of at this time. The reader is referred to Leocor's initial public offering prospectus for a more complete discussion of applicable risk factors and their potential effects, copies of which may be accessed through Leocors issuer page on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Leocor disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.




German prosecutors said Thursday they had filed war crime charges against the alleged leader of a rebel group which fought in Syria alongside Islamic State jihadists.

Syrian Amer A., the suspected chief of the group Liwa Jund al-Rahman, is accused of war crimes in "the form of forced displacement, looting in two cases and destruction".

Prosecutors also charged another Syrian named as Basel O. for membership in the group and arrested a third suspect over similar crimes.

Amer A. is alleged to have founded the Liwa Jund al-Rahman in 2013 in the Syrian province of Deir ez-Zor and acted as its leader.

The rebel group aimed to "violently bring down the Syrian regime", aligning itself with the Free Syrian Army but following an "Islamist agenda", prosecutors said.

In June 2013, Amer A.'s fighters are said to have joined other jihadist groups in an attack on the eastern village of Hatlah that killed up to 60 Shiite residents.

Survivors were made to flee by Liwa Jund al-Rahman fighters "intentionally stoking fears of death".

The armed group also "took valuables and destroyed religious and cultural institutions".

The result was "the end of all Shiite presence in Hatlah", prosecutors said.

In 2014, Amer A. joined the IS jihadist group and placed his fighters and financial resources under IS authority, according to prosecutors.

Basel O. is alleged to have held "a prominent military position" in Amer A.'s organisation in 2013-2014.

The suspect commanded combat units that fought Syrian troops, notably at Deir ez-Zor's military airfield, prosecutors said.

A third Syrian man, Sohail A., was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of belonging to Liwa Jund al-Rahman and the Islamic State.

Sohail A., who allegedly worked as a media officer, "created propaganda videos, including of the incident in Hatlah", prosecutors said in a separate statement.

He was also accused of war crimes for forced displacement.
North Korea's ambassador to the United Nations on Thursday thanked Russia for using its veto power to effectively end official UN monitoring of sanctions on his nation.

Kim Song said Pyongyang "highly appreciates the Russian Federation's veto" that blocked the renewal of an expert sanctions panel, "as an independent exercise of the right to international justice and impartiality."

North Korea has been under mounting sanctions since 2006, put in place by the UN Security Council in response to its nuclear program.

But since 2019, Russia and China have tried to persuade the Security Council to ease the sanctions, which have no expiration date.

Two weeks ago, Russia vetoed a vote extending the mandate of the committee responsible for sanctions monitoring, while China abstained.

The move prompted backlash from Western capitals, as it came amid a probe into alleged arms transfers between Moscow and Pyongyang.

Seoul has accused Pyongyang of sending thousands of containers of weapons to Moscow for use in Ukraine.

During a debate Thursday at the General Assembly, which must follow any veto, Kim attacked what he called "the heinous hostile policy of the US to trample underfoot (North Korea's) sovereignty (and) right to development and existence."
Sudan has been brought to its knees by a war between the regular army and rival paramilitaries that has killed thousands of people and displaced 8.5 million more.

Here are the main developments in the fighting, which has brought the country of 48 million to the brink of famine.

- April 2023: Fighting erupts -

Explosions rock the capital Khartoum on April 15, 2023, as war breaks out between the regular army of Sudan's de facto leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

Tensions between the pair, who were behind the 2021 coup that ousted strongman leader Omar al-Bashir, had been building for weeks.

The fighting comes after a deal on a return to civilian rule fell apart amid bickering over how to integrate the RSF into the regular army.

The RSF quickly takes control of Khartoum airport, the presidential palace and other key sites.

Fighting also erupts in the western region of Darfur, which is still reeling from a major conflict that began in 2003 when Arab militias known as Janjaweed (which later became the RSF) were deployed by Khartoum to crush a rebellion by non-Arab minorities.

Foreign countries rush to evacuate their nationals from Sudan.

The United States and Saudi Arabia negotiate a 72-hour truce but it is quickly violated, like a series of further truce deals that follow.

- May: talks fall apart -

In May, the army and the RSF take part in ceasefire talks brokered by the United States and Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea port city of Jeddah.

But the army walks out on May 31, accusing the RSF of failing to respect its truce commitments.

Its forces bombard the paramilitaries' positions in Khartoum.

- June: US sanctions -

The United States on June 1 announces sanctions against businesses linked to both the army and paramilitaries, and restrictions on visas for officials from both warring parties.

The paramilitaries say they have seized the country's most important military complex, in Khartoum.

In mid-June, the war claims one of its most prominent victims -- the governor of West Darfur state, Khamis Abdullah Abakar, who is captured and assassinated after criticising the RSF in an interview with a Saudi TV channel.

- July: war crimes probe -

The International Criminal Court opens a probe into alleged war crimes in Sudan, including alleged sexual and gender-based crimes.

In mid-August the war spreads to two new cities: El Fasher in North Darfur and El Fula in West Kordofan.

The UN says famine stalks the whole of Sudan.

- September: unrest in Port Sudan -

In September, the army clashes with tribal militiamen in the strategic Red Sea city of Port Sudan, where the government, which is loyal to the army, has taken refuge.

Peace talks sponsored by the United States and Saudi Arabia resume on October 26 in Jeddah, but there is no agreement on a ceasefire.

- December: gains for paramilitaries -

The paramilitaries overrun central Al-Jazira state, until then a relative safe haven.

Sudan expels diplomats from the United Arab Emirates over accusations the wealthy Gulf country is providing military aid to the RSF.

- January: Sudan quits regional bloc -

Sudan in January quits the east African bloc IGAD after it invited Burhan's rival, paramilitary chief Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, to a gathering.

The number of people uprooted by the war reaches nearly eight million, with more than 1.5 million fleeing to Chad and other neighbouring countries, according to UN figures.

- February: agreement to hold talks -

The warring parties agree to meet for talks on enabling the delivery of desperately needed aid.

The United States says it hopes the talks will take place after the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which ended earlier this week.

burs-cb/kir/smw
Over three decades after deadly attacks in Buenos Aires targeted Israel's embassy and a Jewish center, an Argentine court placed the blame Thursday on Iran and declared it a "terrorist state," according to local media.

The ruling, cited by press reports, said Iran had ordered the attack in 1992 on Israel's embassy and the 1994 attack on the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish center.

The court also implicated the Iran-backed Shiite movement Hezbollah and called the attack against the AMIA -- the deadliest in Argentina's history -- a "crime against humanity," according to court documents cited by media reports.

"Hezbollah carried out an operation that responded to a political, ideological and revolutionary design under the mandate of a government, of a State," Carlos Mahiques, one of the three judges who issued the decision, told Radio Con Vos, referencing Iran.

In 1992, a bomb attack on the Israeli embassy left 29 dead. Two years later, a truck loaded with explosives drove into the AMIA Jewish center and detonated, leaving 85 dead and 300 injured.

The 1994 assault has never been claimed or solved, but Argentina and Israel have long suspected Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah group carried it out at Iran's request.

Prosecutors charged top Iranian officials with ordering the attack. Tehran has denied any involvement.

Argentina has the largest Jewish community in Latin America, with some 300,000 members.

It also is home to immigrant communities from the Middle East -- from Syria and Lebanon in particular.

The judges ruled Thursday that the AMIA attack was a crime against humanity, and put blame on then-president Ali Akbar Hashemi Bahramaie Rafsanjani as well as other Iranian officials and Hezbollah members.

The decision was welcomed by the president of the Delegation of Israelite Associations of Argentina (DAIA), Jorge Knoblovits.

He told Radio Mitre the ruling "is very important, because it enables the victims to go to the International Criminal Court."

Former Argentine president Carlos Menem, who died in 2021 and was the president at the time of both attacks, was tried for covering up the AMIA bombing, but ultimately acquitted.

His former intelligence chief Hugo Anzorreguy was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in jail for his role in obstructing the probe.

He was among some dozen defendants who faced a slew of corruption and obstruction of justice charges in the case, including the former judge who led the investigation into the attack, Juan Jose Galeano, who in 2019 was jailed for six years for concealment and violation of evidence.
In dapper morning dress, Nicaraguas agent stood this week before the judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to argue that Germany is breaching its obligations under the Genocide Convention and international humanitarian law by continuing to supply weapons to Israel and withdrawing its support to the UN body supporting Palestinian refugees, UNWRA.

This is the not the first time that Carlos Jose Arguello Gomez has acted as agent for Managua before the Hague-based ICJ. He made a pointed reference to the striking similarity of this latest foray in the Great Hall of Justice and the application Nicaragua filed 40 years ago. He was part of the team then that challenged the United States over its serious violations of international law against its rights and sovereignty, asking for the court to intervene to order that military assistance from the US to Sandinista rebels should cease. Over the past four decades, Nicaragua previously appeared as party before the court 13 times. Justina Uriburu of the European University Institute, Italy, says it is striking to have a country that for the past 40 years has incorporated the decision to litigate before the court as part of its foreign policy, accepting all of the conditions of the engagement with that institution, which means sometimes you win, sometimes you lose.

The new case has been brought alongside and in relation to South Africas genocide case at the ICJ against Israel, which has already resulted in judges issuing two sets of emergency rulings requiring Israel to increase humanitarian assistance to the 2.5 million civilians in Gaza. Nicaragua says it is acting not only on its own behalf but also on behalf of the Palestinian people that is being subjected to one of the most destructive military actions in modern history. But much of Nicaraguas presentation, rather than focusing on the details of the plausible genocide and suffering in the Gaza Strip, following Israels invasion in October 2023 to crush Hamas and release hostages, is on German arms exports. The lawyers rely on the wording of the Genocide Convention that says all states have a duty to prevent genocide and on generally accepted norms in international law to ensure respect of international humanitarian law. This is a different type of engagement with the court because Nicaragua is acting, let's say, as a guardian of erga omnes obligations, that are allegedly violated by Germany and Israel. This is a concept that is used in international law to refer to these obligations that states owe to the international community, as a whole. Nicaragua is not only saying I am going to solve my disputes with a court, but I'm going to protect legal obligations and the international rule of law by suing other states to the court, which is conceptually a bit different.

Hypocrisy and commercial interests

I think everybody was surprised, says Kai Ambos of Gottingen University that another case involving a third state would be brought following the South African one. In particular because Nicaragua is not a state with a high reputation, he says. They brought this claim one day after the UN Human Rights Council investigative Fact-Finding Commission published a devastating report on the Ortega family dictatorship. This doesn't make the claim as such without any merit, of course it could have merit, but it's maybe not a good start for such an important claim.

Daniel Muller, a member of Nicaraguas legal team, outlined in court how last year Berlin authorized more than 326 million exports of military equipment and war weapons to Israel. Most of these licences were granted in the second half of 2023, after the invasion of Gaza by Israel, he pleaded. He quoted a variety of German officials justifying the continued support to Jerusalem. The fact that Germany is engaged in facilitating or improving humanitarian aid in Gaza for its suffering people does not change the picture, he said after quoting the German Foreign Minister referring to the hell of Gaza while describing efforts to improve humanitarian access. Instead it is a pathetic excuse to the Palestinian children, women and men in Gaza to provide humanitarian aid, including through air drops, on the one hand, and to furnish the weapons and military equipment that are used to kill and annihilate them  and to kill also humanitarian aid workers as most recently evidenced by the missile attack against vehicles and workers of World Central Kitchen, on the other hand.

Arguello Gomez was even sharper. There is another less noble reality that perhaps is not known by the generality of the German people: there is also a lucrative quid pro quo involved. German companies involved in the military industry are directly profiting from the situation as they have seen their share prices rise since 7 October and they have substantially increased the joint development contracts for weapons with their Israeli counterparts, he argued. Israeli companies proudly advertise their products as battle-tested. Needless to say, that for years the international community has been aware that the testing field is Palestine and its people, particularly Palestinians living in Gaza.

Germanys dilemma

Alain Pellet, a veteran French lawyer who also represented Nicaragua before the ICJ 40 years ago, dealt with expected arguments from Germany that because the case concerned Israels conduct yet Israel was not one of the parties, the case should be thrown out. It is not a question of whether Israel has failed in its international obligations, but whether Germany has failed in its own. Germany was and is fully aware of the risks of using the weapons it supplied and continues to supply to Israel to commit genocide against the Palestinian people. And it goes without saying that the genocide in question would be internationally illegal if committed by Germany itself. It is a matter of the utmost urgency that Germany should at last suspend the aid and assistance it provides for this purpose; such aid and assistance fall fully within the definition of complicity incriminated, as such, by Article III of the [Genocide] Convention, Pellet told the court.

Tania von Uslar-Gleichen, legal adviser and director-general for legal affairs at Germanys Federal Foreign Office said that Israels security has been at the core of German foreign policy. She repeated many of the quotes Nicaragua had brought from German officials regarding Israels conduct of the war but said: They are not proof, as claimed by Nicaragua, that Germany is failing to live up to its responsibilities. On the contrary, calling for the adherence to international law does not constitute the manifestation of its breach. To us these quotes prove that Germany is fulfilling its obligations to ensure respect for international humanitarian law. In fact, Germany is the largest individual donor of humanitarian assistance, she stressed and it works not only via UNRWA but also organizations like OCHA [The UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs], the World Food Programme, the ICRC [International Red Cross Committee] and the German Red Cross.

The entire international community is grappling with the political, moral and legal dilemma posed by the situation in Gaza, she said. The principles I have mentioned  protection of Israeli security and support for the rights of Palestinians  have required Germany to make difficult choices.

Nicaraguas weak spot

On arms exports Christian Tams, a member of Germanys legal team, stated that the picture presented by Nicaragua is at best inaccurate; and at worst, it is a deliberate misrepresentation of the actual situation. For every licence that is granted, the German government carefully assesses whether there is a clear risk that the particular item subject to licensing would be used in the commission of genocide, crimes against humanity or grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 1949. This requirement follows from binding rules of German and European law, which exceed international requirements.

Samuel Wordsworth, another adviser for Germany, focused on what may prove Nicaraguas biggest stumbling block: the lack of an established dispute between the two countries. It was just 17 days after Germany received Nicaraguas Note Verbale, [that] the current proceedings were commenced without prior warning, relying for the supposed existence of a dispute on a few words by a governmental representative in a general press conference, he noted. Nicaraguas agent had acknowledged the timescale and bilateral level of intercourse was not lengthy and extensive but he justified the brevity against the backdrop of ongoing genocide, and said, it would be a blind retreat into formalism to require round upon round of diplomatic exchanges.

Apparently, Nicaragua sent the same email beginning the dispute in February to three other states - Canada, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom - to their public information emails rather than directly to the ambassadors in Managua. Germany was actively considering its response and seeking co-ordination with the three states that had received similar emails when, without warning, Nicaragua commenced the current proceedings on 1 March, Wordsworth said.

National legal suits

Two of Nicaraguas demands for emergency measures against Germany concern arms exports, asking to stop them. The third measure asks for UNWRAs funding to be completely restored. It's very unlikely that the court will accept Nicaragua's request as a whole, says Ambos. I especially do not think that the court will ask a state to suspend or cease supply weapons to another state. It would be difficult to think that the court would impose such an obligation on a third state. I think the court would just be too cautious.

But if it did, perhaps the biggest impact would be on the national level, he says. A few days ago there was a claim filed at the administrative court in Berlin, he notes, which basically runs along the same lines as a recent Dutch appeals case, arguing that Germany cannot provide weapons to Israel given the IHL [international humanitarian law] violations and the plausible genocide of Israel.
Lee Jung Hyun convinces Jeon So Nee to work with her in defeating the parasites that plan to kill humanity.

In "Parasyte: The Grey" Episode 5, Jeon So Nee and Koo Kyo Hwan learn the ulterior motive behind Kwon Hae Hyo's plans.

Choi Jun Kyung Offers Truce

In episode 5, viewers learn that Seol Kang Woo (Koo Kyo Hwan) is looking for someone who's never going to appear as his younger sister is already dead.

Jung Su In (Jeon So Nee) is facing the same grief as Kim Cheol Min (Kwon Hae Hyo) is now dead, and has been possessed by a parasite.

With no Hunting Dog to guide them to the parasites, Choi Jun Kyung's (Lee Jung Hyun) task force is lost. They try to postpone the big music festival in order to save other people.

To their disdain, the mayor refuses to cancel such a big event, especially since it's the last time the mayor is running for a position in the office, leaving the detectives dejected.

Choi Jun Kyung Blows Everything Up

Kang Won Seok (Kim In Kwon) asks the parasite inside Kim Cheol Min's body whether he knows Jung Su In's true state. The spy discovers that she is a mutant.

Kim Cheol Min's parasite knows what Jung Su In's parasite is capable of, leading him to decide to take her down. Unbeknownst to them, Jung Su In now plans to fight back.

Meanwhile, Choi Jun Kyung finds the church where the parasites are hiding. She takes photos for evidence, and plans to attack the hideout to kill everyone inside it.

Jung Su In warns her that Kim Cheol Min and Kang Won Seok are both parasites. Sadly, the detective doesn't listen, believing that her two subordinates are doing well.

Jung Su In Refuses the Offer

Jung Su In meets Choi Jun Kyung and explains her symbiotic relationship she shares with Heidi, the parasite inside her body, and what had happened with Kim Cheol Min.

Choi Jun Kyung wants Jung Su In to join her team but she doesn't want to be their Hunting Dong. With Heidi in control, she runs away with Seol Kang Woo.

Elsewhere, Seol Kang Woo's older sister who's transformed into a parasite sacrifices herself in order to protect him and Jung Su In from other parasites tailing the two.

Jung Su In and Seol Kang Woo warn Choi Jun Kyung for the last time, saying that working with Kim Cheol Min and Kang Won Seok is a huge trap waiting to capture her.

Kim Cheol Min joins Choi Jun Kyung's task force and actually kills his own parasitic brothers, leaving other parasites feeling betrayed.

Jung Su In and Seol Kang Woo believe that the parasite inside the detective has an ulterior motive: take control of someone in position, the mayor of their town.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mariscotes.
As Netflix gears for the much-awaited release of "Goodbye Earth," the upcoming K-drama focuses on Ahn Eun Jin as she transforms into a passionate middle school teacher.

Can Ahn Eun Jin Protect Her Students from the Chaos?

Despite the setback, viewers will finally see the premiere of the webtoon-based K-drama, and its star-studded cast.

Following the first trailer, Netflix dropped another teaser, showing a glimpse of Ahn Eun Jin's character as she takes on the role of Jin Se Kyung, a dedicated teacher.

Things will change after the public receives a shocking warning from the government regarding the end of the world.

The trailer begins with students and faculty receiving a text notification about the asteroid Dine, which is set to hit the earth in 300 days, particularly the Korean peninsula.

Here, "Goodbye Earth" features a sneak peek at how the people grapple to survive within a limited time.

The pre-apocalypse K-drama focuses on Jin Se Kyung stepping up in hopes of saving her students by taking matters in her own hands.

However, other than the impending end of the world, society faces a whole new chaos as escaped convicts and criminal organizations can freely wreak havoc, causing frenzy even before the pandemonium hit the Earth.

With Ahn Eun Jin playing one of the main characters of the show, this raises excitement since she is well known to perfectly portray notable characters, such as from "Hospital Playlist," "The Good Bad Mother," "My Dearest," and more.

'Goodbye Earth' Cast

Other than Ahn Eun Jin, "Goodbye Earth" also showcases a slew of notable stars.

Jeon Sang Woo, who is known for his K-drama "Diary of a Prosecutor," takes on the character of Woo Sung Ja, also known as Priest Damian. He is an assistant to the main priest and often fills his shoes when he disappears amid the chaos.

The rumors surrounding him make him strong, and he makes sure to lead and take care of his people.

Kim Yoon Hye of "Shooting Star" plays as Kang In Ah, the company commander whose mission is to maintain security and transport supplies.

Last on the list of lead characters is Yoo Ah In, who plays as Jin Se Kyung's boyfriend, Ha Yoon Sang. He is a researcher at the Biotechnology Research Center in the U.S. who stays with Se Kyung despite South Korea being classified as a danger zone.

Unfortunately, because of the ongoing controversy, Yoo Ah In's screen time in "Goodbye Earth" has been reduced.

In addition, Netflix also skipped featuring the actor in the trailer, still cuts, and posters.

Meanwhile, the "Goodbye Earth" release date is slated for April 26, airing all 12 episodes simultaneously.

READ MORE : Ahn Eun Jin Breaks Silence on Offscreen Buzz with Namgoong Min- Real Story Behind Those Dating Rumors Unveiled

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Flores
Apart from his praise-worthy acting, Kim Soo Hyun is captivating the viewers with his incredibly witty lines. Due to this, fans have dubbed him as the "King of Ad-Libs."

Kim Soo Hyun Praised for Witty Lines, Sense of Humor

While the viewers enjoy the development in every episode of "Queen of Tears," they also look forward to Kim Soo Hyun's ad-libs, which add fun to the drama.

To recall, in episode 10, when Hong Hae In (Kim Ji Won) slapped her brother Hong Soo Chul (Kwak Dong Yeon), Baek Hyun Woo commented "She doesn't hit me," assuring his family that his wife doesn't do it to him.

It was then revealed that the line was improvised by the actor. Even his co-actors burst out laughing after hearing Kim Soo Hyun's ad-lib.

Kim Soo Hyun's acting skills have been the center of discussions online. Playing the role of Baek Hyun Woo, he captivates viewers with the cool-headed lawyer persona, yet also charms the audience with his visuals and how perfectly he showcases his emotions.

As a seasoned actor with more than 15 years in the industry, it's already given that he is brilliant and experienced, causing viewers to overly immerse with his witty ad-libs without breaking his character and the flow of the scene.

Another hilarious ad-lib that Kim Soo Hyun did that brought laughter to viewers and the staff was during his drunk scene in Episode 1. He paid homage to a cute line delivered by Kim Ji Won in her drama "Fight for My Way" by incorporating it into his own line.

It was said that Kim Ji Won gave Kim Soo Hyun a thumbs up for his ad-lib.

This is not the first time that Kim Soo Hyun impressed the audience with his improvised lines and acting.

He also did ad-libs in "My Love from the Star" during his kiss scene with Jun Ji Hyun.

Why is Kim Soo Hyun's Ad-Libs Loved By Viewers?

In an interview, Kim Soo Hyun shared:

"Even though it wasn't in the script, there was no better way to express love for someone than by holding their hand."

Thanks to his acting prowess, the viewership ratings for "Queen of Tears" continue to skyrocket.

In addition, he also topped the brand reputation index surveyed by the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute from March 10 to April 10.

A professor of Korean literature at Chungnam National University, Yoon Seok Jin, analyzed the reason behind Kim Soo Hyun's ad-libs being loved by the public. He elaborated:

"One of the characteristics of writer Park Ji Eun's dramas is the effective use of intertextuality, which brings well-known series, advertisements, and other elements into the work to evolve laughter."

He added:

"Kim Soo Hyun's past collaborations with Park Ji Eun and experience in previous works have helped him with his ad-libs."

What can you say about Kim Soo Hyun's ad-libs in "Queen of Tears"? Share your thoughts/replies in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Shai San Miguel wrote this.


Thursday, April 11, 2024  A 14-year-old American boy was stabbed to death after trying to protect his girlfriend from two teens stalking her through a busy shopping mall.

Robert (Bobby) Maher died at a mall in the Wyoming town of Casper and the two teens have been arrested and face charges.

The Cowboy State Daily reports that local police officers responded to a call about an unconscious child at the mall and arrived to find desperate shoppers performing CPR on Maher, who sadly did not survive.

An arrest affidavit cited by the paper states that Mahers friend told police the pair went to the mall after Mahers girlfriend called him and said two masked males were following her and her friend.

He said they found the girls with the two other boys, who he identified as JJ and Dom and they tried to get the girls to safety as Maher told the boys repeatedly to leave.

The group then reportedly stepped outside the mall and a physical confrontation kicked off.

Everything happened so quickly, the friend told police.

Dom slammed [Maher] to the ground and then JJ walked up and stabbed [Maher], he said.

The two 15-year-old boys, Dominique Harris and Jarreth Plunkett, were later arrested.

Casper police obtained video of the incident, which reportedly shows Plunkett and Harris wearing balaclava-style masks as Plunkett advances on Maher, challenging him to fight. The younger boy is seen backing away, putting his hands up and attempting to get back inside the mall before Harris flanks Maher, grabbing him and slamming him to the ground before holding him and swinging a punch.

Plunkett then stabs Maher twice before the victim tries again to get back into the mall with the help of his mate, before collapsing.

Plunkett told police that it was Harris who wanted to start a problem but made a chilling admission.

He reportedly said that Maher had told him to put the knife away, this isnt fair.

He told police he replied: I dont fight fair.

Harris told police that he and Plunkett had sought out Maher after an incident two weeks ago when Maher allegedly called the pair freaks after they were seen entering a port-a-potty together at a public park.

Plunkett claimed they only went into the toilet because it was cold outside.

Seeking revenge, Harris and Plunkett then asked Mahers girlfriend and friend where he was, asking the friend if he wanted to fight to settle the blood debt.

On the day of the killing, the affidavit states the pair stole kitchen knives, Red Bull and candy.

Harris later gave his knife away but Plunkett said he held onto his because he could not trust anybody.

Bobby Mahers father Robert Maher posted a tribute to his son online, saying he will never be forgotten.

I miss you so much, Daddy was so proud of you and loved you so much so very much! We are so devastated, nothing can bring you back, we love you, Bobby, he wrote.

My neeners, my Jr, you will never be forgotten! I am dying inside and out right now and will be forever.


Friday, April 12, 2024 - A rogue traffic police officer captured on camera taking bribes from matatus plying Buru Buru area has been suspended.

The National Police Service said it had began disciplinary proceedings for his dismissal from the Service.

The move comes after a concerned Kenyan took a video showing the officer receiving bribes from several PSV vehicles plying the route.

The Officer, attached to Traffic within Buruburu Police Station has been suspended from Traffic Police Unit with immediate effect, and proceedings for his dismissal are ongoing, NPS said Friday.

The NPS commended the members of public and media for their continued collaboration with security agencies in their campaign to combat graft.

The police body further assured Kenyans of its commitment to its constitutional mandate of fighting corruption and striving for the highest standards of professionalism and discipline among its members.

Watch video of the rogue cop.

A rogue Buru Buru traffic police officer who was filmed taking bribes from matatus dismissed from the service - This viral video exposed him badly pic.twitter.com/SGFICpszkU  DAILY POST  (@TheKenyanPost) April 12, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday April 12, 2024 - In a surprising turn of events, Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has sold out poor workers.

This is after he emphatically endorsed President William Rutos controversial Affordable Housing Project which will raid workers payslips.

Speaking during a media interview, Atwoli disclosed that a meeting between Ruto and the countrys labour secretary generals had preceded the projects rollout.

We asked him during Labour Day, please come and explain to us.

We went to State House, and he met all the general secretaries, Atwoli shared.

Atwoli, often a figure of controversy, put forth a robust defence of the housing levy pointing to the importance of labour organisations' involvement in the project's preliminary discussions and the consideration of their input as essential for the initiative's continuity.

His stance comes as a reassurance to many workers who have expressed concerns over the new deduction.

If it reaches somewhere and our representative on the board says this is what's happening. Can we be able to resist either to look into it this way or that way, then we will, when we reach there, we'll have to look at it from that way. There's not everybody who can agree, Atwoli elucidated, acknowledging the diversity of opinions that such a significant policy shift is bound to elicit.

The labour leader also pointed to the eradication of slums as a pressing reason for the levy.

Drawing parallels with countries like Algeria that have embarked on similar ventures, Atwoli stressed the need for a master plan to eliminate slums, with representation on the project board being crucial.

Ruto is targeting 1.5% of employees gross salary and a similar contribution from employers for his Housing project.

However, Rutos Affordable Housing Plan is currently navigating through legal challenges.

A total of 22 Senators, alongside Senator Okiya Omtatah, have mounted a challenge against the project's legality.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday April 12, 2024 - Embattled Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has emerged as one of the best financial managers according to Auditor General Nancy Gathungu.

The Office of Auditor General (OAG), in its report for County Executives, in the 2022-2023 financial year revealed billions looted by Governors and other County officials.

Meru County, under the leadership of Kawira Mwangaza, was one of the devolved units that reported the least instances of County officials looting taxpayers funds.

It was also one of the few Counties in Kenya where the Auditor did not flag tribal appointments when employing County staff.

The report from the Auditor General is in contrast to the events in Meru County Assembly where members have impeached the Governor repeatedly over accusations of misuse of public funds.

Kawira Mwangaza, on her part, has reiterated that MCAs fight her because she has been resolute in defending public resources from being looted.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Thursday, April 11, 2024  A Malaysian beauty queen has been stripped of her title after a video of her dancing suggestively with male dancers while on holiday in Thailand went viral.

Viru Nikah Terinsip was seen 'dancing suggestively with scantily clad male dancers' in footage that went viral on social media, according to Asia One.

The 24-year-old made a public apology for the video on Monday and offered to return her title hours before officials confirmed she would lose her honours.

The Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) formally withdrew her Unduk Ngadau Johor title, president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan noting 'this would not be an issue if she was just an ordinary person'.

'We were made to understand that she went on a private holiday with her family to Thailand,' he explained. 'We do silly things and get carried away when holidaying.'

'There were a lot of mixed reactions, some saw the humour in her video, some sympathised, others were unhappy and complained,' he added, according to The Star. 'We [KDCA] do not want to be the target and attract unnecessary attention.'

Earlier on Monday, Ms. Terinsip had said she would like to return the title 'with honour and humbleness', adding that she 'joined the Unduk Ngadau competition by my own will and returned this title without coercion'.

'The title is not everything. It is about believing and valuing myself,' she continued, according to The New Strait Times.

'I am not perfect... Everyone makes mistakes.'

The young model thanked the public for their support and said everyone should 'focus on other issues and move forward' from the furore.

She also requested people not target her family and friends, as they are 'not involved in this matter'.

'It is up to you whether you would accept [my explanation] or not, but this comes sincerely from my heart. Thank you for listening,' she said.

President Kitingan said in his statement: 'We hope that she will accept this decision well. Let this serve as a warning to all Unduk Ngadaus to not repeat the mistake.'

Ms Terinsip won the Unduk Ngadau Johor title last year, at a pageant event featured at the annual harvest festival in Sabah, northern Borneo.

The competition is held to commemorate the spirit of Huminodun, a mythological character representing kindness and wisdom.


Friday April 12, 2024 - The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has pressed the Government for immediate action to settle outstanding debts amounting to more than Ksh 2 billion.

These debts have accumulated from services provided by Catholic hospitals to patients under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which is set to be replaced by the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) in July 2024.

The bishops have highlighted a longstanding issue, noting, We have on various occasions raised to the government the very unjust fact that the faith-based hospitals are owed huge amounts by the NHIF.

In a press conference on Thursday, April 11, the bishops said the consequences of these unpaid debts have been stark, with many hospitals struggling to maintain operations like the purchase of medicines and payment of staff.

The effect is that most of our hospitals are crippled and unable to operate optimally, the bishops added, painting a grim picture of the healthcare situation.

Amid concerns over the transition to SHIF, the bishops decried the lack of assurances from the government that the owed funds will be disbursed.

Our inquiries on whether our debts will be honoured have been met with more promises but no legal guarantees. This is not only unfair but unjust, they lamented, voicing their frustration over the governments handling of the situation.

The Catholic Church is a major healthcare provider, operating nearly a third of all health facilities across the country.

This extensive network includes 451 health units, encompassing 69 hospitals, 117 health centres, 14 medical training colleges, and 251 dispensaries.

The issue of unpaid NHIF claims has led to significant disruptions in healthcare services, with around 400 rural private hospitals halting services to NHIF cardholders last month.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Thursday, April 11, 2024  Christians have expressed outrage after a television commercial in Italy featured nuns receiving crispy chips for communion.

According to an Italian Catholic organization, the commercial is blasphemy and should be taken off the air.

The commercial by Amica Chips features doe-eyed young nuns inside a convent delighting that their communion wafer, is actually a potato chip.

A mother superior figure looks on as the nuns laugh, and it is then revealed that it was her (the mother figure) that substituted the communion for potato chips in the box where communion wafers are kept, called a tabernacle.

Giovanni Baggio, the head of AIART, a Catholic group that monitors Italian radio and television, called the ad blasphemy" as Christians believe the communion wafer represents the body and blood of Christ.

In a statement, Baggio said the 30-second commercial was outrageous and that it offends the sensitivity of millions of practicing Catholics by trivializing the comparison between the potato chip and the consecrated object.

The Catholic newspaper Avvenire also criticized the ad in an editorial: Christ has been reduced to a potato chip. Debased and vilified like 2,000 years ago.

Amid the backlash, Italys advertising standards authority, the IAP, announced an order for the commercial to be taken off air. Amica Chips has seven days to appeal the decision, during which time broadcasts will continue. The order does not apply to online placements.





Social media users also reacted to the ad.

This is blasphemy! Respect Our Lord Jesus in the Holy Eucharist! wrote one Instagram user.

Another said: You dont play with God. To my Italian friends, I suggest a total boycott of this company.

Watch the video below


Thursday, April 11, 2024  Dancer Korra Obidi has said that she suffered a knife and acid attack in the UK.

The mother of two who shared a video from the scene, said the incident occurred while she was in the middle of a live stream.

Korra who further revealed that she was attacked by a black female, is asking for information that might lead to the suspect's arrest.

She wrote;

"Currently in an ambulance to the hospital, there was a knife, acid attack on me in the UK in the middle of a live stream. There's been a lot of hate in the past but this physical assault is a wake up call. If you have any information as to the attacker, black female. 5 foot. please forward to Korramanagement@gmail.com


Friday April 12, 2024 - Narc Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua has issued seven demands to President William Ruto over a 5,000-acre piece of land which has been at the center of recent contests.

In a lengthy statement, Karua pointed out that families are facing eviction from Ndabibi Farm in Naivasha.

The Azimio la Umoja Principal affirmed that Ruto is the buyer of the said piece of land.

To avert the impending eviction, Karua asked Ruto to explain when he acquired the land, who was the seller and how much he paid for it.

Other questions raised by Karua included: what was his source of money, did his due diligence inform him that there were over forty thousand families who had been residing there for decades, and any special reason that Dr Ruto's ownership was revealed after he assumed power.

"Is he ready to protect and defend the constitution as he swore and therefore defend the rights of the forty thousand families?

Can he withdraw the security agents at the farm pending the settlement of ownership issues?" Karua further asked.

"We are staring at the making of a humanitarian crisis of great proportions, one that would make any serious administration seek to intervene to prevent or mitigate."

Ruto had not publicly announced that he owns the contested piece of land.

However, in March, Naivasha Member of Parliament Jane Kihara insisted that Ruto is the bona fide owner of the 5000-acre piece of land at Ndabibi area in Naivasha.

Speaking at a public Baraza, Kihara accused a section of leaders of being behind a syndicate of land grabbers targeting unsuspecting owners.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - A close ally of Azimio One Kenya Alliance leader, Raila Odinga, has stated that the ongoing doctors strike in the country has exposed President William Rutos incompetency in running the affairs of the country.

Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Azimio stalwart Fred Okang'o said the failure of the Ministry of Health to end the doctors strike is the height of incompetence in the Kenya Kwanza administration.

''It is important to note that this ongoing strike has exposed the Government's ineffectiveness in dealing with issues of healthcare.

It has also exposed the Ministry's leadership incompetence in dealing with the doctors' strike.

Most importantly, it has exposed the incompetency of the Kenya Kwanza Government to deal with ordinary concerns that affect common mwananchi.'' Okang'o said.

The outspoken politician said Kenyans are victims of the current escalating tug of war between the Government and the doctors and urgent interventions are needed to end the stalemate.

He argued that with the current tough economic situation, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Kenyans to access health services, which he noted is a constitutional right.

'Persons who suffer most are common Mwananchi, who goes to the public hospitals.

We are told there could be people who have died as a result of the absence of doctors, reports indicate mothers are giving birth on the floors of hospitals and patients with terminal conditions are walking long distances to seek medical attention at private facilities, which are expensive in the midst of this bad economy,'' Okango stated.

The doctors' strike has no end in sight since Ruto told the medics last weekend that the Government has no money to increase their salaries.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Thursday, April 11, 2024  A prominent Ethiopian opposition official from the sensitive Oromia region was found shot dead on Wednesday, April 10, a few hours after being arrested by government forces, his party said.

Bate Urgessa of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) party was released on bail last month following his detention alongside French journalist Antoine Galindo.

The 41-year-old was arrested again late on Tuesday, April 9, by government armed forces at a hotel in the town of Meki, 150 kilometres (90 miles) south of the capital Addis Ababa, OLF spokesperson Lemi Gemechu told AFP.

He was then briefly taken to a detention centre in the city, Lemi said.

Bates family confirmed that he was found dead on a road in a place called Melissa, on the outskirts of Meki town, he said, adding that he had been shot.

The body was found on Wednesday morning, he said, adding that they could not tell if the forces who arrested Bate were from the federal or regional government.

There was no immediate comment from the federal government but the regional authorities said attempts to blame it for the assassination were not acceptable.

The Oromia Regional State strongly condemns the killing of Bate Urgessa, which was carried out by an unidentified body, it said on its official Facebook page.

OLF, which considers itself the mouthpiece of the populous Oromo people, said in a statement that it had learnt about the death with agony and grave sadness.

The unwarranted and extrajudicial killing of conscious and active Oromo political and cultural figures has been a systematic and irresponsible act of silencing the Oromo throughout years and decades, it said.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC)  an independent state-affiliated body  on Wednesday urged both the regional and central governments to conduct a prompt, impartial and full investigation into Bates killing.

Hold perpetrators to account, EHRC chief commissioner Daniel Bekele said on X, formerly Twitter. Human Rights Watch also made similar appeals.

Bate had been held in Ethiopian prisons on several occasions. On February 22, he was arrested in Addis Ababa in the company of Galindo, a journalist with the specialist publication Africa Intelligence.

The two men were accused of conspiring to create chaos in the country. Bate was released on March 6, a week after Galindo.

In 2022, he had been released on health grounds after a year in detention.


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Former Communications Authority of Kenya, Chief Executive Officer, Ezra Chiloba, has shocked Kenyans after he was unable to explain the source of his wealth.

Chiloba who has been nominated by President William Ruto as Consul-General for Kenya in Los Angeles, United States of America, told the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations that his net worth is Sh 800 million.

The lawmakers sought to know how Chiloba amassed this wealth at the age of 46, with a short career stint in the private sector.

Chiloba explained that he started working in 2001 while in school.

He noted that his wealth has been growing over the years from employment income, consultancy services and farming activities.

"I am a farmer, and I engage in agribusiness where I plant and sell avocados in my Kitale farm.

I was able to save money from my formal employment," said Chiloba.

Many Kenyans including lawmakers were not convinced that Chiloba could make such money through agriculture.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Auditor General, Nancy Gathungu, has exposed six Governors who have reportedly embezzled Sh 33 billion in their Counties.

In her report on county executives for the 2022/ 2023 financial year, Gathungu ranked the County Governors as the worst performers in public funds management, indicating that billions of taxpayers' money could have gone down the drain.

The six Governors in the spotlight were Nairobi (Johnson Sakaja), Baringo (Benjamin Cheboi), Narok (Stephen Ole Ntutu), Kiambu (Kimani Wamatangi), Nyamira (Amos Nyaribo) and Tana River (Godhana Dhadho Gaddae).

Gathungu stated that Sakaja reported spending KSh 100 million on vehicles and other transport equipment, but a review of the documents showed he incurred over KSh 770 million on various motor vehicles.

Gathungu said the variance of KSh 671.6 million was not explained.

"The amount differs from amounts paid to various motor vehicle dealers during the year of KSh 771,589,099. The resulting variance of KSh 671,589,099 was not explained," she disclosed.

Narok County had queries amounting to KSh 4 billion, with the largest amount, KSh 1.1 billion, allegedly owed to suppliers, but no documents were provided to support this.

Kiambu, Nyamira, Baringo and Tana River had a lot of inconsistencies in their budgets and Gathungu asked the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to probe the county bosses and their cabinets

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Azimio One Kenya Alliance supremo, Raila Odinga, has asked President William Ruto's administration to sit down with the striking doctors to resolve the impasse because many Kenyans are suffering.

In a press conference on Thursday, Raila who is also the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, called on both the Government and the doctors to reason together on issues raised and avert further suffering for Kenyans.

"After very wide consultations, I am convinced that the doctors and all other health workers currently on strike will be able to craft a return-to-work formula and resume duty if the Government were to meet their demands halfway while negotiations continue," Raila said.

He also asked the State to pay medical interns, look into the fees and salaries for doctors pursuing further studies and address the unprocedural termination of their services.

The Azimio boss also appealed to the Government to reinstate the Sh206,000 pay for interns until the next CBA negotiation.

He said that during that next round of negotiations, both parties will put their cases on the table for consideration.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - A middle-aged Luo man has said that he is not happy with the decision by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to contest for the African Union Chairperson seat.

Speaking to Citizen TV, the Nyanza resident identified as Fred Ogina, prayed that Raila fails to clinch the continental seat.

Ogina questioned why the ODM leader was interested in the seat, yet Kenyans voted for him to fight for their rights.

He insisted that the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party leader should be defeated by a considerable margin, arguing that he will do nothing significant at AUC to benefit Kenyans.

"I want him to be defeated because we voted for him to defend Kenyans' issues.

I don't know what he is going to do at the African Union," Ogina said.

Raila, 79, has declared his bid to replace Mousa Faki who retires in early 2025.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - The suspects linked to a violent robbery in Eastleigh where a Somali businessman was shot and robbed of Ksh 3.9 million were trailed by undercover detectives and abducted in Mombasa.

According to reports, the suspects, Fredrick Kopo alias Frik and Jaylan Kibe, travelled to Mombasa alongside a lady identified as Esther Wambui alias Bobo Shanty to buy a car, four days after the robbery incident.

While they were at one of the car yards shopping for a car, three men approached them and convinced them they had a better deal.

They allegedly followed the three men to a showroom and that was the last time they were seen alive.

It is now emerging that the three men were undercover detectives.

It remains unclear how the trio ended up dead in Nairobi County and how their bodies were collected from three different areas.

Kibe's and Esther's bodies were found around the Juja and Lari areas in Kiambu County.

Fredrick's body was recovered from an undisclosed place.

The bodies were transferred to Nairobis City mortuary.

The autopsy reports conducted at the facility indicate that the three died by drowning, as large amounts of water were visible in the lungs.

Kibe was buried at the Kariokor cemetery, following the Islamic culture that requires the deceased to be buried within 24 hours after their death.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Michael Muchiri alias Mickey Tush on Instagram is in custody after he was arrested by detectives alongside his girlfriend, Charity Njeri, on suspicion of carrying out criminal activities in the city.

His arrest came after detectives conducted thorough forensic analysis of evidence obtained from various armed robbery scenes across Nairobi and its environs, which were staged on diverse dates from 2023.

Detectives raided his house at Green Park Estate in Athi River and recovered a pistol.

It is believed that he was part of the gang that planned an armed robbery in Eastleigh where a businessman was robbed of $30,000 (Ksh 3.9 million)

The suspected gangster is a close friend of Joe Muchiri and convicted murderer Joseph Irungu alias Jowie.

They have been pictured in past events partying together.

See his photos below.

Below is a report courtesy of Citizen TV.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Charity Njeri was arraigned at Makadara Law Courts alongside two other suspects in connection with a spate of armed robberies in Nairobi.

The three suspects were arrested over the weekend after a pistol was recovered at Njeris boyfriends house at Green Park estate in Athi River.





It is believed that they have been using the firearm to conduct criminal activities.

The trio are also linked to a robbery incident in Eastleigh where a 26-year-old Somali businessman was shot and robbed of Ksh 3.9 million.

It is believed that they were part of the deal.

They were detained for 10 days pending investigations.

Njeri has been displaying a lavish lifestyle on Instagram.

She wines and dines in high-end restaurants.

She also flies to exotic destinations for vacations.

See her photos below.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Thursday, April 11, 2024  American rapper, Jeezy is now asking for primary custody of his and Jeannie Mai's young daughter amid their messy divorce.

According to TMZ, the rapper filed new legal docs asking a judge to toss out the current custody and parenting time arrangement he hashed out in mediation with his estranged wife, and now requesting that his daughter be allowed to live with him full-time.

In the document, Jeezy said he initially agreed to move to the basement amid their breakup. However, he says Jeannie later moved out of their family home and took their little girl with her.

Jeezy alleges Jeannie has since tasked her brother and mother with the majority of the care of 2-year-old Monaco, claiming Jeannie's extensive travel schedule isn't good for their kid and adding that Jeannie has withheld his parenting time with their child for nearly 2 months.

In the docs, Jeezy says the child would have more stability if he had primary physical custody and that's what he's now asking a judge to enforce.

This comes almost four months after Jeannie hit back at Jeezy for claiming she was gatekeeping Monaco from him. At the time, Jeannie said she had accommodated all of Jeezy's visitation requests including time over the holidays.

Jeezy filed for divorce from Jeannie Mai after two years of marriage in September 2023, and the pair have been battling it out in court ever since.


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Nairobi County Governor, Johnson Sakaja, should be investigated by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over how he and his proxies are looting Nairobi.

According to sources, Sakaja is using South C MCA, Osman Khalif Abdi, to loot Nairobi which is one of the busiest cities in Eastern Africa.

According to Kileleshwa ward MCA, Robert Alai, Khalif has recruited his brother to carry out criminal activities and he was on Friday supervising an illegal building in the posh suburb.

While the Governor of Nairobi is being accused of looting Nairobi, the brother to one of his associates being accused of facilitating the looting is also supervising major destruction of Kileleshwa Ward.

This is the brother to former South C MCA Osman Khalif Abdi and he is supervising the building with impunity along Kandara Road, where Viva Lounge previously existed, Alai wrote on X

Watch the video via this LINK>>> and see photos of Khalifs brother supervising the construction of an illegal building in Nairobi.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday, April 12, 2024 - Before the 2022 presidential election, former President Uhuru Kenyatta toured Ruaka town where he warned Kenyans against electing William Ruto as President.

Uhuru, who is commonly referred to as Bazuu, spoke in his ethnic Kikuyu language and said he has worked with Ruto for many years and warned Kenyans that electing Ruto is like electing a thief who has been mugging you daily.

However, out of arrogance and ignorance, Kenyans went ahead and elected Ruto and everything now is headed south.

For instance, in Nairobi County, Governor Johnson Sakaja with his cartels are stealing everything and it is just a matter of time before Nairobi County coffers are left empty.

President William Ruto has been silent on this daylight robbery by Sakaja because his close associates have been given tenders to loot the busy metropolis.

An example is Kapseret Member of Parliament, Oscar Sudi, who has been given a tender to collect garbage in the city.

The multi-billion tender was awarded without a tendering process but foolish Nairobi MCAs have kept quiet.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday April 12, 2024 - Azimio leader Raila Odinga has a bone to pick with President William Ruto over the issues in the health sector that have been exacerbated by the ongoing doctors strike.

In a press briefing held yesterday, Raila issued an ultimatum to Ruto to sort out the mess in the health sector or else he will have himself to blame.

He asked the Government to reinstate the Ksh 206,000 salary pay for the intern doctors, until the next CBA negotiations.

During that next round of negotiations, both parties will put their cases on the table for consideration, Odinga argued.

The opposition leader further noted that the Ministry of Health is supposed to pay school fees for doctors pursuing further studies with Counties paying their salaries.

My understanding is that while Counties have kept their side of the arrangement, the Ministry of Health has failed to do so since 2018, thus doctors cant graduate from their courses, he added.

Odinga further advised the government to have a sit down with the Counties, to resolve the issue of pay for the doctors who have overstayed in colleges.

"I have been shocked to learn that some of our high-end hospitals are hiring doctors on 1-3 months contracts.

The Ministry must lay down rules that ensure fair, respectful and sustainable labour practices."

Raila also addressed the issue surrounding the unprocedural termination of contracts, citing recent steps taken by various Counties on striking county doctors.

"I believe that the above actions if taken in consultation with the union, will see us avert the crisis that is building up in the health sector," he added.

The Ministry of Health on Thursday maintained its stance to pay medical interns a stipend of Ksh 70,000 per month, after sending them posting letters through the email system.

The doctors' strike is currently in its fourth week, with KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah vowing to carry on until their demands are met.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday April 12, 2024 - Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has put Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi on the spot over his flagship project that seeks to empower his constituents by providing them with chicks.

In the report on County Governments County Executive 2022/ 2023, the Auditor General revealed that the Governor spent Ksh 18 million to purchase 60,000 one-month-old chicks and the amount was fully paid on April 20, 2023.

However, despite the payment, the report revealed that 37,500 of those chicks had not been delivered.

The cost of the undelivered chicks was Ksh 11.25 million.

"No explanation was provided as to why the supplier did not supply the remaining 37,500 chicks," read part of the report.

According to the report, 12,000 and 10,500 chicks were delivered in July and August 2023 respectively.

This was among the irregularities highlighted by the Auditor General in Kiambu County during the period under review.

Also on undelivered goods, the county was questioned over Ksh 81.8 million spent to purchase certified seeds, breeding stock, and live animals among others.

Gathungu also highlighted that the County procured maize seeds valued at Ksh 34.8 million from the Kenya National Trading Corporation but only goods worth Ksh 20.3 million were delivered.

Additionally, the report revealed that Kiambu spent Ksh 11.2 million to purchase liquid nitrogen, semen, plastic socks, hand gloves and paper towels from the Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Center.

However, only Ksh 5.4 million worth of goods were supplied leaving a balance of Ks h5.7 million worth of goods not delivered.

Notably, Wamatangi has been distributing kienyeji chicks to women in the County as one of the plans to empower women and also enable them to earn a living.

The county is also looking to distribute piglets to men which will ensure wholesome economic growth in the county and encourage farming.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Friday April 12, 2024 - The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has expressed its displeasure with the Governments decision to increase permit charges for missionaries.

According to the Bishops, the Government has allegedly hiked the taxes from the initial Ksh15,000 to a whooping Ksh150,000.

While addressing the press in Karen, Nairobi, during the Bishops Plenary Assembly, the Bishops urged the Government to reconsider its take on the levy and scrap it off.

The Bishops termed the move as unethical and that the decision showed a lack of gratitude by the Government.

We as a country should be showing gratitude and appreciation.

So, giving waivers to priests, religious men and women and other social missionary volunteers come to complement our social engagement, read part of a statement by the KCCB.

Meanwhile, the Bishops also called for an immediate end to the doctors' strike and urged the striking medical officers to put patients first.

According to KCCB, doctors must avoid using patients as bargaining chips and instead find better means of settling its stalemate with the Government.

"We urge the Government on one hand, and the doctors on the other hand to seek a working arrangement that does not put the lives of patients at risk so that lives are not lost," KCCB noted.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Thursday, April 11, 2024  Zimbabwe's Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora has explained why mathematics is not a mandatory entry requirement for those wishing to study nursing in the country.

Addressing newsmen following an advert which mentioned English and Science as compulsory subjects for nursing training, Mombeshora stated that they do not consider mathematics as a mandatory subject for nursing training because it is not relevant in the medical field. He said they have retained science because it is relevant to nursing training.

He said;

Maths is a requirement in terms of training in the medical field. Lets start with medicine. I am a medical doctor. The key subject for you to go into medicine is chemistry. so we have retained science subjects as a key subject to go into nursing. We are actually leaving a lot of people who have the capacity and capabilities out of the training because of Maths. We know very much that Maths has not been a subject that has been passed well. So the policy that our President says Leaving no one and no place behind, we also want to make sure that people should not be disadvantaged by just putting a subject with no relevance to the training.

The Minister also disclosed that the government is considering removing English from the list of compulsory subjects for admission into nursing training. Membeshora added that since all other subjects considered for nurse training are taught in English, passing English itself should not be deemed necessary. According to him, pursuing a career in nursing does not equate to pursuing a degree in English, making it an unnecessary requirement.

He said;

We are still looking into a way of recruiting more people who are committed to nursing and we are still looking at other issues like. Is passing English with a C important? because anyone who has passed any of these subjects has been taught in English and if you go to universities outside Zimbabwe lets say English for communication and not to pass English as if you want to go and do a degree in English. So we will keep on reviewing and make sure that we make accessibility to training in various disciplines affordable and accessible to all citizens of Zimbabwe.
Are advance directives any better than they were four years ago when COVID was surging? Are patients still comfortable with being placed on ventilators? Do physicians better understand how to treat COVID as a serious illness?

Physicians provide emergency measures unless theres an advance directive to the contrary. Only one-third of Americans have advance directives when down for the count with serious illness.

Most people prefer to die at home, but many COVID patients died in ICUs and were discarded in cooling trucks behind hospitals. An advance directive expresses the need to beat the proverbial dead horse in futile situations.

Advance directives often encourage individuals to consider The Five Wishes. As an emergency physician, I need patients to expressly decline medical treatment when death is certain. This decision, like organ donation, can be as simple as yes or no and is acknowledged publicly by a symbol on the drivers license.

Theres no uncertainty about an individual who consents to organ donation. Current advance directives are left to interpretation and confused with advance care planning which is subject to change. For an advance directive to be consequential, an individual needs to acknowledge and sign this declaration:

In the event of certain and imminent death, disfiguration, or permanent incapacitation, WITHHOLD medical treatment and provide comfort measures. AND if within three days of certain and imminent death, disfiguration, or permanent incapacitation, WITHDRAW medical treatment and provide comfort measures.

The unsuspecting person may never believe death is certain or imminent at any age. This is an opinion. A trained physician who gathers evidence knows when death is certain and imminent. This is intelligence. The battle between what is (intelligence) and whats believed (opinion) was rampant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Certainty, like dignity, is a matter of intelligence.

Emergency physicians know best how to manage mass casualties through intelligence, not opinion. Who lives or dies is a split-second decision. Similarly, an advance directive functions best as a split-second, yes-or-no consent for medical treatment when death, disfiguration, or permanent incapacitation is certain or imminent.

All too often, resuscitative measures are initiated due to the disbelief or lack of intelligence about death, disfiguration, or permanent incapacitation. When cooler heads prevail, health care proxies remain reluctant to pull the plug on loved ones. This is why the second provision to the consequential advance directive is necessary and makes it foolproof.

The dying wish of most patients is to have all their physicians and family members in the same room in support of patient autonomy. Most people will never make a life-or-death decision on their own and risk alienation. This explains the resistance to completing current advance directives.

The U.S. Constitution endows Americans with the inalienable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. A consequential advance directive ensures individuals the inalienable right to death, certainty, and the withholding/withdrawing of medical treatment in the event of death, disfiguration, or permanent incapacitation.

Military personnel risk being wounded or killed during service and are required to complete advance directives. Many wounded warriors might opt for consequential advance directives in retrospect. Might we support consequential advance directives for those willing to make the ultimate sacrifice?

In matters of life and death, decision-makers often say, Were not there yet. Given this, advance directives have not evolved beyond wishful thinking to become a sacred document. Even with the advent of National Healthcare Decisions Day, which occurs each April 16, death is still not as certain as the tax deadline, April 15.

We, the people, owe a debt to society and are expected to pay taxes. We might acknowledge a debt of gratitude for our life experience by signing a consequential advance directive that prioritizes quality of life and health span over lifespan.

How many suffer the consequences of extending their lifespans through medical treatment? How many might endorse healthspan over lifespan by signing a consequential advance directive on National Healthcare Decisions Day 2025?

Many advocate for current advance directives yet are likely resistant to changing the status quo. With the recent article about the billion-dollar future of advance directives, who might elevate the concept of the consequential advance directive to ensure Americans have the right to withhold/withdraw medical treatment when death is certain?

Kevin Haselhorst is an emergency physician and author of Wishes To Die For: Expanding Upon Doing Less in Advance Care Directives.
Its Wednesday, March 6th, 2024. The day after Super Tuesday. I am sitting in the library, taking a break from writing a final paper for my health economics class, when I see a Politico article: San Franciscos Proposition F passed.

3,000 miles away from my hometown and my medical school, all I can think about are the patients I served in the hospital who were barely surviving in the city. How many of them are going to lose their SRO now? How many are going to go without food? All because these services are now tied to drug testing.

And I cry.

I cry, thinking about how members of my community, whom I have wanted to serve through medicine since I was 15, are being harmed by the same city I love.

At the same time, I started seeing posts from my medical school peers back home, many of whom were similarly appalled. Then, I see that some exalt Proposition F as a big step forward for the city. Then, I see red.

We sat through the same lectures for years. We learned from the same experts who proved time and time again that the wars on drugs  exactly what Prop F is only criminalized people and communities that the U.S. continuously marginalizes through policy, legislation, and systemic attacks.

How can the people whom I have witnessed provide so much care and empathy on the wards turn their backs on those same people now that they no longer occupy a hospital bed?

Arguably, I spend much more time thinking about politics and health policy than the average medical student. I applied to medical school with the intent to also earn an MPH focused on health policy. I see problems in medicine through different lenses and try to bring together the tools from both fields to understand and try to address systemic issues.

I constantly hear that medicine should not be political. I just want to practice medicine and not think about policies. Its a good thing that there are people like you in medicine, I could never.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but physicians, collectively and individually, are directly responsible for the systemic violence and turmoil our patients face every day. The AMA was the original organization that pushed to criminalize abortion in the 1800s and advocated against forming Medicaid until it was passed in 1965. In my home state of California, physicians sterilized Latina women in county hospitals without their consent for population control for decades. And we repeated this abuse in ICE detention centers in Georgia since 2017. The list goes on.

My point is not to make you feel guilty for being a physician. Quite the opposite. We hold immense power and trust that we should carry humbly. However, our white coat does not absolve us of wrongdoing, of abusing our power, and of betraying the trust of the people who need our empathy and care the most.

I want you to take an honest look in the mirror and ask yourself: how are you both helping and harming patients in and outside of the hospital?

Vaccine schedules are being torn apart, Black mothers are dying at an alarming rate, LGBTQ+ children are being murdered, and states are revoking medical licenses for providing standard abortion care. The people we choose to represent us in politics and the policies we support do not operate in a silo.

How is your vote making it harder for your patient?

How is your vote making it harder for you to practice medicine?

Reflect on these questions every time you create a discharge plan for a patient and realize they do not qualify for an SRO, so you have to choose between keeping them in the hospital for a few extra days or discharging them to the street. Reflect on these questions when your patient cannot afford to buy any foodstuffs, let alone ones that are heart healthy.

I have hope that medicine is still heading in a patient-centered direction. I see the lessons my late abuelito showed me while he navigated the health care system, in my peers and mentors regularly in the hospital: learn from patients, value their lived experiences, and to never forget that we are there to provide the best care we can, in whatever way someone needs. We cannot divorce policy and politics from medicine. The systems that we vote to maintain or change affect our patients lives. We see it on the frontlines in the hospital with every care plan, prescription order, surgery, and discharge plan.

I cannot tell you how to vote, and I would never want to discount your lived experiences and burnout, which led to your frustration with our current systems. I am asking you to analyze the greater impact these policies have on our patients lives.

Our profession preaches the gospel of practicing evidence-based care. That evidence must extend to how you vote in our electoral process and within medical societies. The evidence shows clearly that tying welfare dollars to drug testing solves nothing, criminalizing poverty solves nothing, and resurrecting failed policies from decades ago solves nothing.

Physicians and physicians-to-be cannot claim to be free from politics and policy anymore. We need to own our history. We need to apply the same scrutiny we have for research, evidence-based care, and presenting morbidity & mortality boards to our votes. Our careers are tied to every system that our patients interact with daily.

Vote like your patients health depends on it. Because, in the case of our most marginalized patients, it does.

Elizabeth Picazo is a medical student.
ALONG the River Shannon, breast cancer survivors have found camaraderie and fitness as they paddle out on a dragon boat.

On the water, Aileen Murphy and Amanda Jordan have found a safe space with the Limerick Dragons - one where breast cancer does not define them.

A 2,000-year-old ancient Chinese water sport, dragon boat racing was trialled as a treatment for breast cancer survivors by Dr Don McKenzie in 1996.

After introducing 24 breast cancer volunteers to dragon boats and paddling techniques, McKenzie found that the movement required for paddling prevents the risk of lymphedema.

In Limerick, dozens of survivors come together in paddle dragon boats to improve their wellness and raise awareness.

One of the members, Aileen Murphy was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2019, after finding a lump on her right breast.

It felt different. I was actually working on BreastCheck at the time, so I spoke to one of my colleagues. She brought me down for an ultrasound and straight away, she could see that it was cancerous. I got really upset, it was only her and me there. I hadnt brought anyone with me, I didnt think there was a need to have anyone, Aileen recalls.

After a triple assessment, she was told she had invasive ductal carcinoma grade 3, an aggressive type of breast cancer.

For the next appointment, I brought my parents with me, Aileen says. I was told I had to have surgery to remove it. They took the lump out, a big area in my breast and all my lymph nodes. I had 16 chemo sessions with four AC and 12 taxols, then I had 24 sessions of radiotherapy.

After that, Aileen was on a chemo drug for three years.

I go in once a month to have an injection to suppress my ovaries and then I take a hormone inhibitor every day, its just to increase my chances of my cancer not coming back.

Aileen joined the Limerick Dragons in 2020. Among other survivors, she has found a safe place where she can be herself.

It helps you if you've had your lymph nodes removed, you're at risk of lymphedema. So this exercise helps with the whole issue. That's why I said I'd go for that. Plus, I just love the water, its a happy place for me, Aileen says.

After treatment, she experienced a lot of pain in her joints. On the dragon boat, Aileen feels the same as everyone else.

If I'm getting in and out of the boat, it's a little bit awkward, my body might not work the way you want it to work. If I was to go to a class where people weren't affected by any illnesses, I'd stand out a little bit. Whereas when I'm on the boat, I'm the same as everyone else. There's a camaraderie, we care for one another. I don't feel awkward, I can just be myself.

According to Aileen, all her worries go away when she is out on the water.

Youre having a laugh, having a chat, seeing the city from a different perspective. Its great for your headspace. It's very hard to describe it, but you could go out there with all the worries in the world on your shoulders and when you're out in the water you forget about them. You'd be tired, but mentally you're refreshed, she says.

Despite what she has been through, Aileen remains positive - and counts herself as extremely lucky.

I just look at it as something that I have to get on with. I'm extremely lucky, I have this chance at life that not everybody is granted. It gives you a new appreciation for life and it all makes sense.

Amanda Jordan was diagnosed with breast cancer on September 1, 2021.

There had been no history of breast cancer in my family. I was getting a bit of a pain in my left boob and I was like What is that? I checked and I could feel something. I kind of ignored it for three weeks and then, it was playing on my mind, so I went to the doctor.

When they confirmed the diagnosis, it wasn't too much of a shock, but the day I was there for the mammogram was very shocking.

Once I had the diagnosis, it was really a whirlwind, Amanda says.

She had a mastectomy on September 29, 2021. Then, she had to go back for a second operation.

It was on November 9, which was my birthday. The nurses immediately wished me a happy birthday, Amanda recalls.

After starting chemotherapy in January 2022, she had radiation. Now, shes on hormone tablets.

Hopefully that's everything taken out and sorted, she says. The whole breast cancer thing is a bit of a shock to the system. You get into fight or flight mode. You don't want people around you being upset and stuff, it's manageable, but it is quite scary.

Amanda felt the dragons would know what she had been through. Now, she is one of 39 members.

I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone, I wanted to put a bit more life into my years and I wanted to meet people who had an understanding of what I'd been through, she explains.

She says that while out on the water with her fellow dragons, she has learned a valuable lesson.

I've learned that everybody is going through something. A lot of people have been affected by breast cancer, whether they themselves have had it or known of somebody who had it. Ive learned that its only a part of us, it doesnt define us, she says.

On April 13 at noon, the Limerick Dragons will meet future members at the shipyard at OCallaghan Strand. On April 20, they will be organising a flower ceremony, to remember anybody who has passed due to breast cancer.
A suspected drug-driver who did not have a licence or insurance is facing prosecution before the courts, gardai have confirmed.

Highlighting the detection on social media, they say the driver was subsequently arrested and the vehicle seized.

"We were on patrol in Cork City when we were alerted by the mobility app that this car had no insurance," read the post which also featured a photograph of the Skoda Octavia car.

"They were stopped and the driver tested positive for cannabis and was also found to have no license. The driver was arrested and the car was seized. Court to follow," the post.

The photo published by gardai indicates the insurance on the vehicle expired nearly a year ago - in May 2023.

If convicted in the courts, the driver is facing a potential disqualification and a prison sentence.

An analysis of samples will determine whether or not the suspect is prosecuted for drug-driving.

Since gardai were given access to the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland database at the end of last year, there have been thousands of detections of motorists driving without insurance.

Every member of the force has access to the Mobility App which allows them to easily check the status of vehicles and drivers the encounter.
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A former UN peacekeeper and Commander in the Irish Defence Forces will be in Kilkenny later this month to deliver a talk, Time to Stop Irelands Complicity in Genocide.

Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group has invited the peace activist, Ed Horgan to give the talk at the Clubhouse Hotel on Patrick Street on April 24. Horgan has a leading role in Irish peace organisations.

Humanity is facing a multitude of existential crises at present and most of these are interconnected. The Gaza situation has led to the unprecedented destruction not only of so many lives, but also the destruction of the rule of international and humanitarian laws.

Horgan became involved in peace activism initially in 2001 when he realised that the Irish government were allowing US military on its way to war in Afghanistan transit through Shannon Airport. Horgans background in peacekeeping and election monitoring in Cyprus, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Africa gives him unique insight into need for peace-making as an activity.

Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group supports the self-determination, self- government and human rights of the Palestinian people For the last six months members have joined with other organisations and supporters of peace for Palestine holding a vigil held at Kilkenny Town Hall, High Street each Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6pm. All individuals and organisations are welcome to take part in the vigil and to come along to Edward Horgans talk at the Club House. Entrance will be free:

Donations to UNWRA at the door or online.

In his talk on April 24 he will encourage people to use their voices in writing letters to media as a means of correcting

misinformation and promoting human rights.

All are welcome.
Iran has signalled to Washington that it will respond to Israel's attack on its Syrian embassy in a way that aims to avoid major escalation and it will not act hastily, as Tehran presses demands including a Gaza truce, Iranian sources said.

Iran's message to Washington was conveyed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian during a visit on Sunday to the Gulf Arab state of Oman, which has often acted as an intermediary between Tehran and Washington, the sources said.

A White House spokesperson declined to comment on any messages from Iran but said the United States has communicated to Iran that it was not involved in the strike on the embassy.

Iran's foreign ministry was not immediately available to comment. The Omani government did not immediately respond to emailed questions for comment, sent during the Muslim Eid al-Fitr holiday.

A source familiar with U.S. intelligence was not aware of the message conveyed via Oman but said Iran has been very clear that its response to the attack on its Damascus embassy compound would be controlled and non-escalatory and planned to use regional proxies to launch a number of attacks on Israel.

The diplomatic messaging points to a cautious approach by Iran as it weighs how to respond to the April 1 attack in a way that deters Israel from further such actions, but avoids a military escalation that could suck in the United States.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and it shall be," saying it was tantamount to an attack on Iranian soil. Israel has not confirmed it was responsible, but the Pentagon has said it was.

The attack, which killed a top Iranian general, marked an escalation in the violence that has spread through the region since the Gaza war began. Tehran has carefully avoided any direct role in the regional spillover, while backing groups which have waged attacks from Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon.

Iranian-backed Shiite Muslim militias have not attacked U.S. troops in Syria and Iraq since early February.

One of the Iranian sources did not rule out the possibility that members of the Iran-backed Axis of Resistance could attack Israel at any moment  an option analysts have flagged as one possible means of reprisal.

The sources said Amirabdollahian, in his Oman meetings, signaled Tehran's willingness to de-escalate on condition demands are met, including a permanent Gaza ceasefire  something Israel has ruled out as it seeks to crush Hamas.

The sources said Iran also sought the revival of talks over its disputed nuclear programme. Those talks have been stalled for nearly two years, with both sides accusing each other of making unreasonable demands.

And Tehran also sought assurances that the United States would not get involved in the event of a "controlled attack" on Israel by Iran  a demand which the United States rejected in a response delivered via Oman, the sources said.

Irans retaliatory strikes would be non-escalatory toward the United States as they dont want the U.S. to get involved, said the source familiar with U.S. intelligence, indicating Iran would not direct its proxy militias in Syria and Iraq to target U.S. forces in those countries.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday that Iran was threatening to launch a "significant attack in Israel," and that he had told Netanyahu "our commitment to Israel security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is iron-clad."

Israel has said it would answer any attack from Iran.

If Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said in a post on the X social media platform in Farsi and Hebrew on Wednesday.

Iran's 'conundrum'

Experts on Iranian diplomacy said such tough demands from Tehran were typical of the hard-nosed approach it takes in negotiations. But the contacts nevertheless pointed to its interest in warding off major conflict.

Eurasia group analyst Gregory Brew said Khamenei was "trapped in a strategic conundrum."

"Iran must respond to restore deterrence and maintain credibility among its Resistance Front allies. But on the other hand, retaliating to restore deterrence would likely bring an even greater, and more destructive Israeli response, likely with U.S. assistance," he said.

The Iranian sources said the U.S. had asked Iran to exercise restraint and allow space for diplomacy, cautioning Tehran that in the event of a direct attack it will stand by Israel.

The Iranian sources said Iran believes Netanyahu aims to draw Tehran into a war, therefore its retaliation could be a restrained one that avoids direct strikes on Israeli territory and may draw on Tehran's allies.

The U.S. Middle East envoy has called the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and Iraq to ask them to deliver a message to Iran urging it to lower tensions with Israel, a source with knowledge of the situation said.

A source familiar with the issue said the U.S. might well agree to revived nuclear talks if that could prevent a conflagration.

If we are talking about talks and not (about) reaching an agreement, then it would seem to be well worth the price if the payoff is minimizing the risk of a regional escalation into which the U.S. would be dragged, said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Ali Vaez of International Crisis Group said Irans dilemma was "to figure out how to retaliate in a way that it saves face without losing its head".

"Israel is much more unpredictable than the U.S.," he said. "The Supreme Leader is clearly concerned that rather than delivering the deterrent effect he might hope to achieve, an attack on Israel may only fuel a counter-escalation he might have hoped to avoid." (Reuters)
In the realm of K-pop, the luminous quartet of BLACKPINK consistently captivates global audiences with their music, style, and undeniable charisma.

Among the quartet, Rose, with her ethereal beauty and captivating vocals, often emerges as a focal point of admiration.

Recently, the songstress set social media ablaze with her latest Instagram update, sending fans into a frenzy of awe and adoration.

Radiant Beauty in the Limelight

Rose's Instagram post showcased her in a radiant light, draped in delicate, airy garments that accentuated her natural allure.

The simplicity of her ensemble coupled with her luminous complexion exuded an effortless elegance, captivating the hearts of millions worldwide.

IN CASE YOU MISSED THIS: BLACKPINK Rose & Rowoon's Iconic Run-In at Tiffany & Co Has Fans Swooning - Here's What Happened

Netizens' Reactions

The comment section beneath Rose's post quickly became a forum for fans to express their admiration, with sentiments ranging from awe to adulation. Here's a glimpse into the fervent reactions from netizens:

"Rose, you're always pretty. Even flimsy clothes look good on you."

"Is it trendy these days to wear light eye makeup?"

"It has a unique atmosphere of real rose."

"Rose's hair team seems to be really good at it. They look so pretty every time."

""F*cking pretty "

"Rose-yah you're already pretty, but you suit those light/fluffy clothes so well"

"Is it the trend to really do minimal makeup lately?"

"So it was a Tiffay event, she's freaking pretty"

"Seriously Rose has such an unique aura"

"Why is she such a princess? F*cking pretty"

"Rose's hair team really does such good work, she looks gorgeous every time"

"Her aura is unmatched"

"Rose's aura is too good "

"Gorgeous~"

Meanwhile, BLACKPINK member Rose's makeup stylist, Maeng, faced criticism for Rose's look at the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party.

Fans felt Maeng hadn't experimented with new styles for Rose, instead opting for a repetitive makeup look. Some noted Rose's lips lacked color despite Maeng's lipstick swatches.

Fans expressed disappointment, urging Maeng to showcase Rose's visuals more creatively. Despite the backlash, Rose still attended recent events, hinting at new solo music for her upcoming 27th birthday.

YOU MIGHT BE ALSO INTERESTED IN: BLACKPINK Rose's Tiny Waist Sparks a Frenzy Online - 'So Hot'

For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.
A worker inspects the equipment in an intelligent workshop of a fastener-producing company in Yongnian District of Handan, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Xiao)

China will provide strong financial support for large-scale equipment renewals and trade-ins of consumer goods, an official said Thursday.

At the same time, local governments conducting assessments regarding this move and will take into account their actual financial situation to provide certain funds, said Zhao Chenxin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, at a press conference.

Last month, the State Council released an action plan to promote the large-scale renewal of equipment and the trading-in of consumer goods.

Annual investment demand in China's equipment upgrades in key industrial and farm sectors exceeds 5 trillion yuan (about 704.5 billion U.S. dollars), and demand for the replacement of automobiles and household appliances is above 1 trillion yuan, Zhao said.

This market space is very huge, he said, adding that the action plan will not only boost consumption and investment but also promote energy conservation and high-quality development.

Zarazeno pa 12.04.2024 03:04:37 Vydano Zdroj scio.gov.cn Original english.scio.gov.cn/pressroom/2024-04/12/content_117120587.htm lang en
China on Thursday called on the United States to immediately correct its erroneous practices and cease its unreasonable suppression of Chinese companies, after the United States added more Chinese companies to its export blacklist.

At a press conference, Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong said that China will take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies facing U.S. sanctions.

He said that for quite some time, the United States has been targeting Chinese companies by adding them to its export control list on the grounds of so-called Russian or military involvement.

By overstretching the concept of national security and abusing export control measures, the United States is arbitrarily imposing unilateral sanctions on and exercising long-arm jurisdiction over Chinese companies, he said. "This is a typical example of economic coercion and bullying. China firmly opposes this."

China hopes the United States will work with it to implement the important consensuses reached by the two heads of state during their meetings and phone calls, continue strengthening economic and trade-related communication and cooperation in order to create a good environment for trade and investment activities between enterprises in the two countries, and promote the development of China-U.S. economic and trade relations, he said.

Zarazeno pa 12.04.2024 04:04:18 Vydano Zdroj scio.gov.cn Original english.scio.gov.cn/pressroom/2024-04/12/content_117120759.htm lang en
SRV Media

London [UK], April 12: UK Investors Summit Announced 120 million  project under 193 Countries Consortium Entrepreneur Ecosystem in 30 Business Sectors for 2024-2025 FY by Group Chairman & Program Director Aashin U S, London. 193 Countries Consortium the investor relations and entrepreneur ecosystem, organisers of UK Investors Summit will raise 120 million  in the 2024-2025 FY for the businesses in 30 industrial sectors. Business operations and centres will be in major locations in and around London.

Also Read | PM Modi 'Jail' Remark: RJD Leader Misa Bharti Says My Statement Was Twisted, Calls It BJPs Agenda (Watch Video).

The business categories chosen are Fried Chicken Restaurants, Supermarkets, Second Hand Car Dealer Showrooms, Fresh Fish Shop, Real Estate (Rent to Rent), Education, Tours and Travels, Solicitors and Accounting Services, Digital Branding - IT Firm, Rent a Car, Agricultural Farms, Finance Company - insurance & Mortgage Services, Cloud Kitchen, Mobile Phones & Accessories Shop, Beauty Salons & Barber Shops, Distributorship Chain with Import & Export Licence, Public Relations & Influencers Management, Videography & Photography, Catering & Event Management, Food Trucks, Advertisement Agency, BPO & Call Centres. The businesses want to expand their network to UK can join this venture on the relevant categories through 193 Countries Consortium's Franchisor Membership. The businesses must be having a 5-year profit and loss accounts balance sheets and successful business model which can be reproduced via franchising or distributorship.

Each category of business will have 100 shares of 40000 and the model will be established via a franchise network across the 317 geological groups in the UK.

Also Read | Here's Why Archana Gautam Was Escorted Out by Security During Ajay Devgn's Maidaan Screening; Bigg Boss 16 Fame Offers Clarification on Viral Video.

Individuals who want to find the possibilities to start their business in their own capacity in the UK, can visit the UK investors Summit via visit UK on business program for up to 6 months to attend interviews, meetings, conferences and seminars, UK Investors summit invitation will be suitable to get this opportunity, and you can negotiate and sign deals and contracts as well as attend trade fairs to promote your business (you cannot sell things). This is also facilitated through Individual Membership Platforms of 193 Countries Consortium, and they can find the potential business to establish in the UK and do the further procedures.

For the smooth functioning of the activities and accessibility to the process information 193 countries consortium formed, local chapters in the 317 locations in the United Kingdom. Aspirant Entrepreneurs, and Graduates can join as volunteers from their respective locations so that they can utilise the potential opportunities to network and grow.

The first phase of the Project will be for the entrepreneurs and projects from Kerala, said Aashin US, who is a Keralite, with 12 years of experience in handling entrepreneur engagement platforms such as local investors summit, in Kerala. Simultaneously projects from other Indian cities also will be considered as well as previous year UK Investors Summit hosted entrepreneurs from more than 30 Countries.

The current business opportunities open for expansion are the second had car showroom dealership, Real Estate, Export Import & Distributorship chains, Education and Restaurant Chains.

All these projects will be run by the respective company managing directors with minimum 10 years' experience in the respective business profiles. There are opportunities for Business consultants to engage with the entrepreneurs and investors in the announced project. Consultant can suggest the companies that can be established in the UK through their activities.

Consultants and Volunteers are invited from the following council locations in the UK: -Metropolitan districts (36), London boroughs (32) plus the City of London, Unitary authorities (62) plus the Isles of Scilly, County councils (21) and District councils (164).

Aashin U S, Chairman of 193 Countries Consortium is a Serial Entrepreneur Seed Fund Investor, Mentor and Philanthropist with 16+ years of experience. Currently mentoring the team of Franchise Development for the known brands like McD, Chicking etc as well as Asian Supermarket Chain Rayyan Supermarkets, and Indian Arabic Restaurants of Rayyan Group.

The media wing of 193 Countries Consortium lists the latest business news and articles about franchising opportunities and excellent business news is a leading media release from London, United Kingdom, which helps Indian enterprises to reach the international market and helps to develop their business to 193 UN registered countries. Investors and Brand Enterprises will have a preliminary round table at the UK Investors Summit 2024 which will be held on 19 July 2024 at the UK parliament, London.

To know more, visit - https://193countriesconsortium.com/

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SRV Media. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

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Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], April 12 (ANI): Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attended the 'Bhoomi Puja' ceremony of Sardar Patel Medical College and Research Center run by the Ahmedabad Diamond Association Medical Trust in the state capital.

In a post on X, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel wrote, "Got an opportunity to attend the Bhumipujan ceremony of Sardar Patel Medical College & Research Center in the presence of Union Minister of State Shri Devusinh Chauhan, fellow Ministers and MLAs at Kathwada, Ahmedabad. The Ahmedabad Diamond Association Medical Trust is doing good work in the field of health treatment and education."

Also Read | PM Narendra Modi To Address Election Rally in Jammu and Kashmir, Hold Roadshow in Rajasthan Today.

Praising the Narendra Modi government for its initiatives in the field of health, the Chief Minister further wrote, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under the good governance of BJP, medical infrastructure has been improved across the country. A lot of work has been done in the last one decade under the leadership of Modi, which has not been done in the last seven decades."

"From yoga to Ayushman cards, many aspects of health have become available to the general public. The efforts of the government have also been well supported by social organisations, due to which there has been a double speed in the works of public welfare," the post further reads.

Also Read | UK Shocker: Student Dies Using Two to Three Big Bottles of Laughing Gas Everyday.

Gujarat will vote for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in a single phase on May 7 across all the 26 parliamentary constituencies in the state. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Coimbatore, April 12: A case has been registered against K Annamalai, the BJP's Tamil Nadu state President and Lok Sabha candidate from Coimbatore for allegedly campaigning beyond permitted campaign hours in the Avarampalayam area. Coimbatore District BJP Secretary Ramesh has also been named in the FIR along with Annamalai. The BJP leader was reportedly in the region post 10 pm - the time limit dictated by the election code of conduct for parliamentary elections - after his campaign ran late.

Earlier on April 12, in a show of support to the BJP's Tamil Nadu president and the party's Lok Sabha candidate from Coimbatore, K Annamalai, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Nara Lokesh took part in a joint roadshow with him ahead of the seven-phased general elections. PM Modi in Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Holds Roadshow in Chennai, People Gather in Large Numbers to Witness Event (Watch Video).

A former partner in the BJP-led NDA, the TDP, led by Lokesh's father and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, returned to the ruling alliance at the Centre recently. Confirming the TDP's return to the NDA, BJP national president JP Nadda said the two parties would contest the Lok Sabha elections and the polls to the Andhra assembly, which are to be held in a single phase on May 13, as partners. Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha Elections 2024: AIADMK Candidate P Karuppaiah Along With Former State Minister C Vijayabaskar Ride Bullock Cart To Seek Votes in Karumandapam (Watch Video).

Coming out in praise of the BJP's rising poster boy in Tamil Nadu and the South, Lokesh called Annamalai a dynamic and dedicated young leader, who demonstrated a deep understanding of people's issues in the state through his recent padayatra (foot march). Polling for 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu is scheduled to be held in the opening phase of the general elections on April 19. The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Sidhi (Madhya Pradesh) [India], April 12 (ANI): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda, who held a poll campaign in Madhya Pradesh's Sidhi on Friday slammed the Congress for indulging in politics of division.

While addressing a public gathering, Nadda said,"...But overall, one thing came to light which you should also keep in mind. Earlier, politics was done by dividing people. The Congress Party divided brother against brother for a long time, whether someone is from this bank of the river or the opposite bank of the river, whether you are forward or backward, whether you are from our caste or from any other caste, and did vote bank politics. Following that, they took everyone's vote and then formed the government of one caste, section or community. It was not an inclusive government."

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Nadda said that with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the definition of politics has changed and people are not misguided or divided on the basis of caste or class.

"But PM Modi changed the definition of Indian politics in the last 10 years. Now that the definition has changed, politics will not work through a vote bank, by misleading people. Now there will be no politics by talking on the basis of castes and classes," the BJP president said.

Also Read | Ghaziabad Student Suicide: Class 11 Student Jumps off 24th Floor of High-Rise Building in Indirapuram, Suicide Note Found (Watch Video).

Nadda said that the BJP believes that the party will have to show its past performance during the time it was in power and based on that, people will decide its future.

"Now if there is politics, it will be the politics of development and the politics of report card. You have to state what work you have done and based on your work, people will determine your future," Nadda said.

The BJP has fielded Rajesh Mishra from the Sidhi Lok Sabha seat in Madhya Pradesh against Congress party candidate Kamaleshwar Patel.

Lok Sabha elections for the 29 seats in Madhya Pradesh are scheduled to be held in the first four phases of the total seven phases dated April 19, April 26, May 7, and May 13.

The BJP has won 28 seats in Madhya Pradesh during 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the Congress won one. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bhubaneswar, Apr 12 (PTI) A day after being denied a party ticket, former MLA Kailash Kulesika Friday resigned from the BJD and joined the BJP.

Kulesika, who had represented Laxmipur in the assembly as a Congress MLA in 2014, had joined the BJD in 2021 and expected a nomination this year.

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The regional party, however, re-nominated its sitting MLA Prabhu Jani for the upcoming elections, on Thursday.

"I had joined the BJD after the party promised to give a ticket for the Laxmipur Assembly seat. But, the party betrayed me by denying a ticket in this election," Kulesika alleged.

Also Read | Baisakhi 2024: President Droupadi Murmu Extends Wishes on Eve of Vaisakhi, Bahag Bihu and Poila Boishakh.

He also alleged that the BJD assured him to give a post in the cabinet rank in the Special Development Council.

"I have joined the BJP. People will give the BJD a befitting reply for betraying me," he added.

This apart, a senior leader of BJD and vice-president of its Bhadrak district unit Asit Patnaik, joined the Congress on Thursday.

He joined the party in the presence of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Sarat Patnaik, Campaign Committee chief Bhakta Charan Das and others.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kolkata, Apr 12 (PTI) From 'Gendu' to 'Baghu' -- this election season, the animals of Bengal are encouraging people to exercise their democratic rights, besides guiding them at polling stations.

The District Elections Sections across the state are using various mascots to draw voters to the polling booths, and most of them are animals.

Also Read | AI Voice Cloning Scam in Mumbai: Fraudsters Dupe Businessman of Rs 80,000 Using Artifial Intelligence.

The Alipurduar district has come up with 'Gendu', inspired by the rhinoceros of Dooars, for the purpose. In Coochbehar district, it is 'Mohanbao' -- a turtle who guides people at the polling booths.

Bengal tiger 'Baghu' is urging the people of South 24 Parganas district, the home to Sunderbans, not to miss their chance to participate in the democratic process. In the Darjeeling hills, a red panda is doing the job.

Also Read | INR vs USD: Indian Rupee Depreciates 7 Paise to 83.38 Against US Dollar in Early Trade.

"Bengal's rich cultural diversity is highlighted through our campaign, aiming to motivate voters to participate in the electoral process," an election official said.

"Instead of formal language, we are trying to reach out to voters with characters that are closer to their hearts. We believe the effect will be much more," she added.

The election mascot of Jalpaiguri district is 'Teesta', a girl named after the river which is the lifeline of the region. In the Kolkata Uttar constituency, 'Tenida' -- a fictional resident of the Potoldanga area motivates first-time voters to exercise their franchise.

The 'Vote Gopal' mascot of Nadia is based on the immortal court jester Gopal Bhar of medieval Bengal. The comic strip character of 'Batul the Great' is encouraging voters of Howrah, the birthplace of his creator Narayan Debnath.

In the coastal district of Purba Medinipur, a character based on crabs is promoting voter turnout, while in Hooghly, the Jagannath Rath of Mahesh is accompanying the Election Commission's messages for voters in hoardings and posters.

'Ghotoknath', based on the famed terracotta horses of Bankura, is urging people to cast their votes, besides reminding them of the district's cultural heritage.

"Such initiatives raise awareness among the people not only about elections but also about their area's heritage, culture and natural resources," said Anjana Brahma, a professor of Bengali at KK Das College in Kolkata.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kolkata, Apr 12 (PTI) The city court on Friday granted a three-day transit remand to the two accused in the Bengaluru cafe blast case, allowing the NIA to take them to the Karnataka capital for further investigation.

The chief judge of the city sessions court here granted the transit remand to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) following a prayer by the agency.

Also Read | PM Modi 'Jail' Remark: RJD Leader Misa Bharti Says My Statement Was Twisted, Calls It BJPs Agenda (Watch Video).

The accused, Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, were arrested from a hotel in Purba Medinipur district's seaside tourist town Digha, around 190 km from Kolkata, the NIA said.

Taahaa was the mastermind behind the planning and execution of the blast and Shazib placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe, officials said.

Also Read | Lonavala Porn Racket: Kolkata Man Arrested for Producing Pornographic Films for 'SexFantasy' Production Company, Paid Women Rs 20,000 Per Day for Shooting Adult Videos.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, April 12: Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday directed the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) to finalise the conclusion of a pending investigation within two weeks in the land-for-job case linked to money laundering involving Bihar's former Chief Minister Rabri Devi and her two daughters.

In this case, Rabri Devi, and her daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav have been chargesheeted along with Amit Katyal and Hridyanand Chaudhary. All accused except Amit Katyal appeared through video conferencing. Katyal was exempted from appearance for today. Special judge Vishal Gogne after hearing submissions of ED's Special Public Prosecutor passed the direction. The court has listed the matter for hearing on April 22. Land for Job Scam Case: ED Questions Former Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav for Eight Hours (Watch Video).

"It is directed that the ED shall make efforts to finalise the conclusions of any remaining investigation within two weeks," Special Vishal Judge Gogne said in the orders. The court also perused the case record of the ED with respect to the course of further investigation. It was noted that the principal complaint (charge sheet) is already before the court. Upon query by the court, the ED's Special Public Prosecutor (SPP), Manish Jain, submitted that further investigation is being conducted on a priority and expeditious basis.

The court also granted time to the ED to file a reply from the accused persons seeking unreleased documents from the ED. This matter is at the stage of scrutiny of documents after filing of the charge sheet. On February 28, the court granted regular bail to Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav and Hridyanand Chaudhary. These accused were summoned by the court after taking cognizance of the charge sheet filed by the ED. Land-for-Job Case: Delhi Court Grants Interim Bail to Ex-Bihar CM Rabri Devi, Two Daughters in IRCTC Case.

On January 27, the court issued summons to former Bihar CM Rabri Devi, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, Hridyanand Chaudhary and other accused in the case. Amit Katyal was arrested by the ED during the investigation. Two firms, namely AK Infosystem and AB Export, have also been accused in this case.

ED had submitted that in 2006-07, AK Infosystem was formed by Amit Katyal and its business was IT data analysis. No real business was done. Instead, several land parcels were bought by the company. One land parcel pertains to the main predicate offence, which is land for a job. This company was transferred in the name of Rabri Devi and Tejaswi Yadav in 2014 for the consideration of one lakh Rupees, ED submitted.

In the Prosecution Complaint (charge sheet) filed on January 9, 2024, the ED submitted that AB Export was supposed to be in the business of export. It was incorporated in 1996. In 2007, Rs five crore came through five companies and a property in New Friends colony was purchased. In this case, seven land parcels are involved. Out of these, Rabri, Hema Yadav, and Misa Bharti got land parcels. Later on, they allegedly sold out their land parcels.

ED's Special Public Prosecutor had apprised the court that the Yadav family members are beneficiaries of the proceeds of crime. Katyal is said to be a close aide of former railways minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. The Delhi High Court had refused to quash ED proceedings against Amit Katyal, who is accused of engaging in transactions with the family members of Lalu Prasad Yadav.

According to the ED in March, based on the specific intelligence inputs, searches were conducted at 24 locations at various places in Delhi NCR, Patna, Mumbai and Ranchi in the Railways Land for Job Scam, which resulted in the recovery of unaccounted cash of Rs 1 crore, foreign currency including USD 1900, 540 gms gold bullion and more than 1.5 kg of gold jewellery (worth approximately Rs 1.25 e), as well as several other incriminating documents, including various property documents, sale deeds, etc., held in the names of family members and benamidaars indicating illegal accretion of huge land bank and electronic devices.

Searches resulted in the detection of proceeds of crime amounting to approximately Rs 600 crore at this point, which are in the form of immovable properties of Rs 350 crore and transactions of Rs 250 crore routed through various benamidaars, ED stated.

According to the ED, PMLA investigation conducted so far, several pieces of land at prominent locations in Patna and other areas were illegally acquired by the family of the then Rail Mantri, Lalu Prasad Yadav, in lieu of jobs provided by the railways. The current market value of these land parcels is more than Rs 200 crore. In this regard, several benamidars, shell entities and beneficial owners of these lands have been identified.

Further, investigation under PMLA revealed that the property situated at New Friends Colony, Delhi (an independent 4-story bungalow, registered in the name of AB Exports Private Limited, a company owned and controlled by Tejashwi Prasad Yadav and family) was shown to have been acquired at a value of mere Rs 4 lakhs, the present market value of which is approximately Rs 150 crore.

It is suspected that a huge amount of cash or proceeds of crime has been infused into purchasing this property and a few Mumbai-based entities, dealing in the gems and jewellery sector were used to channel ill-gotten proceeds of crime in this regard. The property has been, on paper, declared as the office of AB Exports Private Limited and AK Infosystems Pvt. ltd, it is being exclusively used as residential premises by Tejasvi Prasad Yadav, son of Lalu Prasad Yadav. During the searches, Tejasvi Prasad Yadav was found to be staying at this house and was found to be using this house as his residential property.

The ED investigation has found that 4 parcels of land acquired by the family of Lalu Yadav for just Rs 7.5 Lakhs from poor Group-D applicants were sold to Syed Abu Dojana, an ex-RJD MLA, by Rabri Devi with huge gains at Rs 3.5 crore in a collusive deal. The ED investigation further revealed that a major portion of the amount thus received was transferred to the account of Tejashwi Prasad Yadav.

Investigations revealed that similarly, lands were taken from several poor parents and candidates in lieu of Group D jobs in the railways. It has been revealed during the investigation that in many railway zones, more than 50 per cent of recruited candidates were from Lalu Yadav families' constituencies, stated ED.
Madurai (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 12 (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday conducted a roadshow in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

The BJP has fielded Raama Srinivasan as its candidate from the Madurai parliamentary constituency.

Also Read | Terrorist Recruitment Module Busted in Delhi: Punjab Police Arrest Germany-Based Terror Operative at IGI Airport.

Later, during his address to the public, the Union Home Minister accused AIADMK and DMK of corruption, which he claimed has hindered Tamil Nadu's development.

Amit Shah also stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made the nation secure and prosperous. He believes that now is the time for Tamil Nadu people to support PM Narendra Modi and vote for the BJP.

Also Read | Land for Job Scam: Delhi Court Directs ED To Finalise Conclusion of Probe Involving Bihar Former CM Rabri Devi Within Two Weeks.

"Due to the political corruption of AIADMK and DMK, Tamil Nadu has not been able to develop as much as there are possibilities. PM Narendra Modi has made the nation secure and prosperous. Now, the time has come for Tamil Nadu people to stand with PM Narendra Modi and vote for the BJP. Only BJP can make Tamil culture reach the whole nation," he said.

Polling for 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu is scheduled to be held in the opening phase of the general elections on April 19. The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4.

In 2019, the Congress and DMK-led alliance won 38 out of 39 seats in the state, while AIADMK could only win one seat.

The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats in the country will be held in seven phases, starting April 19. Nearly 97 crore voters are eligible to cast their votes in the general elections. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jammu, Apr 12 (PTI) Kashmiri migrants from Jammu and Udhampur districts of Jammu and Kashmir would no longer be required to fill up 'Form M' to vote in the Lok Sabha polls as the Election Commission has ordered changes to the existing voting scheme for the displaced people, fulfilling a long-standing demand.

Earlier, the filing of the form was mandatory for displaced voters from the Valley ahead of every parliamentary and Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read | Kerala: Two Men Found Dead, Another Unconscious in Suspected Drug Overdose Case in Kozhikode, Investigation Underway.

According to the new arrangement announced by the EC on Thursday, the Kashmiri Migrant electors in various camps or zones at Jammu and Udhampur shall no longer need to fill 'Form M'. Instead, they shall be mapped with the special polling stations falling in the zones they are registered or residing in, the poll panel said.

In addition, the commission also eased the process of filing Form M by the migrants staying in Delhi and other places in the country, by allowing self-attestation instead of the earlier required certification by Gazetted officers.

Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Samajwadi Party Names Candidates for Kaushambhi and Kushinagar Seats.

However, to avoid impersonation at the Special Polling Stations, the voters will have to carry either carry voter I card or any of the alternate documents prescribed by the Commission for the identification of electors.

"There is no change in the postal ballot facility and the same continues to be as notified earlier. They have to fill out Form 12C to seek a postal ballot. Form 12C can be filled by any migrant, no matter where he is residing  at Jammu, Udhampur or Delhi, Mumbai, Noida," an official press release said.

The decision was taken by the commission after a meeting on Friday chaired by CEC Rajiv Kumar along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.

The Lok Sabha polls in the Union Territory will be held in the first five phases on April 19 (Udhampur) and April 26 (Jammu), May 7 (Anantnag-Rajouri), May 13 (Srinagar) and May 20 (Baramulla). The counting of votes will be held on June 4.

On March 23, the EC announced a comprehensive scheme for Kashmiri migrants to exercise their franchise during the Lok Sabha polls, continuing the past practice of voting through postal ballots and special polling stations at Jammu, Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir and New Delhi.

The scheme is meant for all those electors of Baramulla, Srinagar, and Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary constituencies in Kashmir who had migrated because of compelling circumstances and are temporarily residing in various places outside their place of original residence.

The EC issued two notifications categorising the Kashmiri Migrants as the specified' and notified' elector. Of the 26 special polling stations to be set up for the migrant voters, 21 are in Jammu, one in Udhampur and four in Delhi for the Kashmiri migrant voters who are residing at various relief camps and who opt to cast their votes in person through electronic voting machines.

Any migrant elector other than those who opted to vote in person can avail the option to vote through postal ballot papers by filling up Form 12C'.

The commission ordered suitable changes to the existing scheme of voting by Kashmiri migrants at special polling stations as part of its ongoing efforts to make electoral participation more inclusive and hassle-free for all sections of society, the release said.

It said the amended arrangement envisages the mapping of all 22 special polling stations -- 21 in Jammu and one in Udhampur -- to the 21 zones -- 20 in Jammu and one in Udhampur -- individually, ensuring that every zone has at least one special polling station.

"In case there are multiple polling stations in one zone, the zonal officers shall earmark the intra-zonal jurisdiction for each such polling station keeping in mind the distance/ease of approach for each set of electors," it said.

Various representations were received from several Kashmiri migrant groups projecting the difficulties they face in filling out Form M every election which brings a lot of hassle to them in exercising their right to franchise, EC officials said.

The Form M procedure subjects these voters to "additional bureaucratic hurdles" compared to other voters. The process of filling out Form M is often complex and cumbersome, requiring specific documentation, proof of migration status and attestation by a gazetted officer, the poll authority noted.

The Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir had also submitted his comments to the Commission on April 9.

"The commission, after taking into consideration the representations received from several Kashmiri migrant groups regarding the scheme, feedback from the political parties and comments of the Chief Electoral Officer, notified the scheme for Kashmiri migrants to vote in person at transitory camps and voting by means of postal ballot pertaining to the ongoing General Election to Lok Sabha 2024," the commission said.

The Kashmiri migrant pandits leaders including former MLC Ajay Bharti of BJP and Sanjay Dhar of Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) welcomed the decision of the Election Commission and appealed to the community to participate in the ensuing parliamentary elections en masse.

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Saharanpur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 12 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that the mafia is like 'Raktbeej' (a multiplying demon) and they should not be allowed to flourish again under any circumstances.

Addressing a public gathering in Deoband on Friday in support of BJP candidate Raghav Lakhan Pal Sharma from Saharanpur Lok Sabha seat, he said, "Congress and SP used to capitulate to them, but today 'Kuch mafia jail mein hain, kuch jahannum chale gaye' (Some mafia are behind bars, while others have met their fate). Their influence has been completely extinguished."

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He highlighted the clear division in this election between two opposing ideologies. On one side are those driven by caste divisions, while on the other are individuals dedicated to nationalism.

"On one hand, there are those intent on tearing apart the social fabric, while on the other hand, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, there are people who believe in upholding India's dignity."

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The Chief Minister emphasised that the Saharanpur district, nestled in the sacred embrace of Maa Balasundari, Maa Shakambhari, and MaaYamuna, stands as the birthplace of heroes.

"Today is the holy birth anniversary of the great Maharana Sanga. On his birth anniversary, we got the opportunity to offer floral tributes to the statue of his grandson Maharana Pratap. Even after centuries, the nation holds Maharana Pratap in high esteem, as his sacrifices were for the nation and faith, not for personal gain. However, the people of Congress, SP, and BSP obstructed the construction of Maharana Pratap's statue in this region for two decades," the CM said.

The Chief Minister remarked on the inability of previous governments before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure, to facilitate the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

"Congress denied the existence of Ram in the Supreme Court. When Hanuman ji was fetching the Sanjeevani Booti, Kalnemi was chanting Ram's name. In this election, individuals like 'Kalnemi' will approach you, chanting Ram's name. However, a true patriot stands by the one who has actualized the construction of the Ram temple. You have witnessed our governance for a decade at the national level and seven years at the state level."

He continued, "We have removed the mics and loudspeakers from which they used to shout and cause disturbances. Our country and our religion are our national pride. If they are secure, so are we."

Advocating for ending casteism, communalism, and regionalism, he called for embracing a broader, inclusive identity. Encouraging support for leaders who have championed causes such as the construction of the Ram temple, the revocation of Article 370 in Kashmir, and the abolition of triple talaq, he outlined a vision for progress.

"The Chief Minister criticized past administrations, including Congress, SP, and BSP, for their lack of substantial development in Saharanpur. He revealed that the construction of a highway in the region had been halted due to corruption. Still, under the current leadership, progress has been made, with the completion of the highway bringing Delhi within a two-hour reach. Additionally, initiatives are underway to enhance infrastructure, including highways and railway networks, and transform Saharanpur into a smart city," the release stated.

The Chief Minister also announced the commencement of sessions at the university named after Maa Shakambhari, with plans for its official inauguration post-elections.

Chief Minister Yogi expressed dismay over the transformation of Saharanpur, originally envisioned as the 'Kashi of the West,' into a centre of religious fanaticism, particularly in Deoband.

"He highlighted instances where 'fatwas' were issued on trivial matters, including directives on vaccine administration, fostering an environment conducive to chaos and disorder rather than development. Despite the region's rich history of craftsmanship, artisans needed more support and recognition, resulting in missed opportunities for growth," as per the release.

Furthermore, Yogi condemned the exploitation of farmers, citing low prices for agricultural produce and the sale of sugar mills to criminal elements at nominal rates.

Highlighting recent successes in combating organised crime, he noted that some mafia members are now behind bars while others have met their end.

He urged the public to reject caste-based organisations attempting to resuscitate dormant criminal networks, labelling them as parasitic entities detrimental to societal well-being. The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of persistent opposition to such divisive forces.

"The Chief Minister outlined decisive actions against the mafia in Prayagraj, highlighting efforts to seize their ill-gotten assets and repurpose the land for social welfare projects. Reclaimed land has been utilised to construct high-rise housing complexes for underprivileged residents. Underlining his administration's commitment to grassroots engagement, the Chief Minister emphasised his frequent visits to Saharanpur over the past seven years, surpassing the historical precedents set by previous administrations," the release said.

He cited significant strides in poverty alleviation, with the implementation of schemes ensuring free rations for approximately 80 crore impoverished individuals. Moreover, the Chief Minister underscored the government's dedication to transparency and efficiency, exemplified by eliminating middlemen through the Jan Dhan account initiative.

He reiterated the government's non-partisan approach, prioritising inclusive development for all citizens.

Several state government officials, including ministers Yogendra Upadhyay, Brajesh Singh, and Jaswant Saini, as well as BJP regional leaders Harendra Jatav and Sukhwinder Singh Som, attended the event. (ANI)

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Thoubal (Manipur) [India], April 12 (ANI): Assam Rifles in a joint operation with the Manipur Police recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition and war-like stores in Thoubal, an official said.

The recovered items include one bolt-action rifle, one 9mm carbine, one 9mm pistol, four 51mm mortar bombs, eight grenades, ammunition, and other warlike stores.

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"Acting on specific intelligence of the presence of arms and ammunition in general area Pechi, in Thoubal district, Manipur, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police including Commandos launched a search operation on April 12, 2024, and recovered one Bolt Action Rifle, one 9mm Carbine, one 9 mm Pistol, four 51mm Mortar Bombs, eight grenades, ammunition and other War Like Stores. The recovered items have been handed over to the police," Assam Rifles said in a statement.

In another development, Assam Rifles conducted two separate operations in Aizawl and Hnahlan cities in Mizoram and recovered heroin worth Rs 11 crore. The team also apprehended two Myanmar nationals, officials said on Friday.

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According to an official release, in an operation conducted along with Champhai Police Station, Mizoram, Assam Rifles recovered 110 soap cases (1,522 gm) of heroin No. 04, costing Rs 10,65,40,000 in General Area Bapi Crossing, Hnahlan and apprehended two Myanmar nationals on April 10.

The team also apprehended two individuals who were handed over to Champhai Police Station for further legal proceedings. The arrested individuals include 50-year-old Ngailunniang and 53-year-old Kamsong.

In another operation in Aizawl, Assam Rifles along with Special Narcotics Police Station, CID (Crime), recovered four soap cases (50.860 gm) of heroin, costing Rs 35,60,200/- in General Area Ropaiabawk, Aizawl on April 10. The four soap cases of heroin No. 4 were being carried by an unknown person who threw the contraband item and fled from the scene on foot by escaping in nearby dense jungles.

The ongoing smuggling of illegal drugs is a major cause of concern for the state of Mizoram. Assam Rifles, rightly christened as the 'Sentinels of Northeast' have continued their efforts against illegal drug trafficking and have also doubled their efforts to nab the kingpins of the drug racket in Mizoram. (ANI)

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Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], April 12 (ANI): Minister of State (Mos) for Defence, Ajay Bhatt, has complained to the Returning Officer of Uttarakhand's Udham Singh Nagar district about the advertisement published in violation of the Model Code of Conduct against Congress candidate Prakash Joshi.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Bhat is contesting from the Nainital Lok Sabha seat in Uttarakhand.

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In the complaint, Bhatt said that false statements have been made in the advertisements about his MP fund. He said that the advertisement published in various newspapers mentioned that he has spent only 40 per cent of his MPLADS (Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) fund and has returned the remaining amount.

"...you are informed that advertisements have been published in various newspapers by Congress candidate Shri Prakash Joshi in which, apart from other false statements, a completely false statement has been made that in the last five years, the current MP and BJP candidate has spent only 40 percent of his MP fund and the remaining amount has been returned," the MoS said in his complaint to the Returning Officer.

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Rubbishing the claims from his rival candidate, the BJP candidate from Nainital said that proposals for full amount of MP Fund was sent and no amount from the MP fund has lapsed not sent back.

"The above statement is completely false, baseless and contrary to facts. The reality is that proposals for the full amount of MP Fund have been sent, many of which are under consideration and pending for approval in the concerned offices due to certain reasons. In this regard, it is also to be clarified that no part of the MP Fund has lapsed nor gone back," Bhatt said.

The BJP candidate said that the false statement published by the Congress candidate is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

The BJP had won all the five seats in Uttarakhand in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Ajay Bhatt defeated former Congress Chief Minister Harish Rawat from the Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar Lok Sabha seat in the last elections. Uttarakhand will vote in the first phase on elections on April 19. (ANI)

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Gadchiroli, Apr 12 (PTI) Election authorities in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district travelled on winding and treacherous tracks and through forests for 107 km to enable two elderly men to vote from their homes for the Lok Sabha polls, officials said on Friday.

The voters, aged 100 and 86, are from the Gadchiroli-Chimur constituency, which will go to polls in the first phase on April 19.

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According to the District Information Office in Gadchiroli, the Election Commission has given those above 85 years and individuals with more than 40 per cent disability the option of casting their ballots from home in the upcoming general elections.

Under the initiative, election officials travelled 107 kilometres from Aheri to Sironcha to reach the homes of 100-year-old Kishtayya Madarboina and 86-year-old Kishtayya Komera who have mobility issues but were keen to exercise their electoral rights, the official said.

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Poll officials have approved the applications of 1,037 voters aged above 85 and 338 divyangs for voting from home in the Gadchiroli-Chimur constituency, he said.

So far, 1,205 home voters have cast their ballots.

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New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) Two days after the Swiss government announced plans to host a high-level summit on Ukraine, India on Friday said it remains open to all ideas that could help achieve early restoration of peace in that country.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has been consistently pressing for resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict through diplomacy and dialogue.

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The Swiss government on Wednesday said it will host the international summit in June to help bring peace in Ukraine after more than two years of war.

"We have consistently maintained that we encourage a negotiated settlement of the Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy," Jaiswal said when asked about the announcement by Switzerland.

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"In this spirit, we have also participated in several mechanisms under Ukraine's peace formula including the Copenhagen format," he said.

"We remain open to exploring all ideas that could help achieve early restoration of peace," Jaiswal said.

The conference is set to be held at Burgenstock resort near Luzern on June 15-16.

Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has put forward a 10-point "peace plan" for ending the conflict that included punishing those responsible for the war crimes, withdrawing all Russian troops from Ukraine, and restoring his country's territorial integrity.

Under the plan, he also called for ensuring energy security, food security, and nuclear safety.

India has been maintaining that the conflict in Ukraine must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

In May last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held in-person talks with Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima.

In the talks, the prime minister conveyed to the Ukranian leader that India will do whatever is possible to find a solution to the conflict.

Asked about reports of slashing of Indian staffers in the Canadian high commission in Delhi, Jaiswal did not give a direct reply.

"It is an administrative matter and you must speak to the Canadian side on what is the reason behind it. As we understand, their visa processing is normal," he said.

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New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) India on Friday described as "positive development" the move by the Taliban regime to restore private land rights to Afghan Hindus and Sikh minorities.

According to reports, the Taliban administration has taken steps to restore property rights of the Hindu and the Sikh communities.

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"We have seen reports on this issue. If the Taliban administration has decided to restore property rights to their citizens belonging to the Afghan Hindu and Sikh community, we see this as a positive development," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

His remarks came in response to a question on the matter during his weekly media briefing.

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The Taliban regime has reportedly set up a commission to ensure return to owners the rights of private land which were seized by warlords during the tenure of the previous dispensation in Kabul.

The latest move by the Taliban dispensation comes weeks after India's pointsperson on Afghanistan J P Singh met senior members of Afghan authorities in Kabul.

Singh, the joint secretary heading the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), held talks with Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi last month.

India has not yet recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and has been pitching for the formation of a truly inclusive government in Kabul besides insisting that Afghan soil must not be used for any terrorist activities against any country.

India has been pitching for providing unimpeded humanitarian aid to Afghanistan to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis in the country.

In June 2022, India re-established its diplomatic presence in Kabul by deploying a "technical team" in its embassy in the Afghan capital.

India had withdrawn its officials from the embassy after the Taliban seized power in August 2021 following concerns over their security.

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Chandigarh, Apr 12 (PTI) Punjab Police on Friday claimed to have arrested an operative of the banned terrorist outfit Khalistan Zindabad Force from the national capital, who was running a terrorist recruitment and funding module from Germany.

Prabhpreet Singh was arrested by Punjab Police's State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar.

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"In a major breakthrough SSOC, #Amritsar arrests Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) operative Prabhpreet Singh Germany from #Delhi International Airport. He was running terrorist recruitment, funding and aiding module from #Germany," Punjab's Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav posted on X.

He said the Punjab Police is working to unearth the KZF network.

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According to an official statement, in 2020, secret information was received at SSOC, Amritsar that KZF terrorist Jagdish Singh Bhura is planning to hit some high-profile targets in Punjab and to accomplish this task, he has provided weapons and financial support to his India-based associates.

Punjab Police busted the module by arresting four operatives of the organisation and recovered arms and ammunition from their possession, said the statement.

In this regard, a case dated December 19, 2020, was registered under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Arms Act at the Police Station State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar.

DGP Yadav, according to the official statement, said during investigations, the arrested accused had disclosed that they were working on the directions of wanted terrorist Bhura and his close aide Prabhpreet Singh.

The arrested persons had also revealed that they were planning to hit high-profile targets, he added.

He said since Prabhpreet Singh was living in Germany, Punjab Police, after nominating him in this case, got a Look Out Circular issued against him through the Bureau of Immigration, New Delhi to ensure his arrest.

"On Wednesday, immigration authorities at the IGI Airport in Delhi informed us about the detention of Prabhpreet Singh. Subsequently, a team of SSOC Amritsar rushed to Delhi and arrested the accused," said the DGP.

Sharing more details, Additional IG, SSOC, Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann on Friday said preliminary investigations have revealed that Prabhpreet Singh went to Poland on a valid visa in 2017, and crossed over to Germany by road in 2020.

"To attain permanent residence in Germany, he applied for political asylum," he added.

"While living in Germany, the accused came in touch with Belgium-based KZF terrorist Jagdish Singh Bhura and got involved in anti-national activities," Mann said, adding that the accused arranged funding and weapons to his Indian associates to carry out targeted killings and other disruptive activities.

He said further investigations are being conducted to unearth the whole network of Prabhpreet Singh and the module he is working for.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Guwahati (Assam) [India], April 12 (ANI): Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army conducted a training exercise, involving the firing of anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) at a super high-altitude area of 17000 feet in Sikkim on Thursday, Defence PRO, Guwahati informed through a press release.

Missile-firing detachments from mechanised and infantry units of the entire Eastern Command participated in the training exercise.

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The exercise encompassed comprehensive continuity training and live firing from different platforms on moving as well as static targets depicting battlefield conditions, the release stated.

The ATGM detachments demonstrated the capability to neutralise armoured threats with unparalleled lethality, ensuring mission success on treacherous mountains, it added.

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The ATGM system's performance in high-altitude environments reaffirms the aim of 'Ek Missile Ek Tank', and showcases the accuracy and effectiveness of the ATGM system in super-high-altitude terrain, the released stated further. (ANI)

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Berlin, Apr 13 (AP) Four teenagers suspected of planning an Islamic extremist attack have been arrested in Germany, authorities said on Friday.

Three of the suspects  two girls who are 15 and 16, and a 15-year-old boy  come from various parts of the western North Rhine-Westphalia state, Germany's most populous. They were arrested after a court issued warrants for them over the Easter weekend, prosecutors in the city of Duesseldorf said.

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A fourth suspect, a 16-year-old boy, was arrested in the southwestern state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, German news agency dpa reported.

The three detained in western Germany are suspected of having declared themselves prepared to carry out an Islamist-motivated terror attack and planning such an attack, prosecutors said in a statement. They didn't specify how advanced the plans were, and said they couldn't give further details because of the suspects' young age and the ongoing investigation.

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They are in detention pending possible charges of declaring themselves ready to commit murder and manslaughter and preparing a serious act of violence.

North Rhine-Westphalia's top security official, state Interior Minister Herbert Reul, said the investigation was prompted by the 16-year-old girl's suspected plans to leave Germany to join the Islamic State group.

Chats on her cellphone, in which possible attacks in Dortmund, Duesseldorf or Cologne were discussed but also churches and synagogues in her home town of Iserlohn, led investigators to the other suspects, dpa reported.

Citing unidentified security sources, the agency reported that the teenagers hadn't yet drawn up a concrete attack plan with a time and place. (AP)

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Phoenix, Apr 12 (AP) Arizona was already expected to be one of the most closely contested states in November's US presidential election. But a ruling this week instituting a near-total abortion ban supercharged the state's role, transforming it into perhaps the nation's most critical battleground.

This Sunbelt state with a fierce independent streak has long been at the forefront of the nation's immigration debate due to its 378-mile border with Mexico and its large Hispanic and immigrant populations. It now moves to the centre of the national debate over reproductive rights after the US Supreme Court ended a federally guaranteed right to abortion.

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Abortion and immigration have been two of this year's biggest political issues. No battleground state has been affected more directly by both than Arizona.

Do not underestimate this, Democratic pollster John Anzalone, who polls for President Joe Biden's reelection campaign, said of the Arizona abortion ruling. It's dynamic-changing.

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Biden and presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump are expected to fight hard to win Arizona after Biden carried the state four years ago by less than 11,000 votes.

In addition to the presidency, the US Senate majority may be decided by the state's high-profile contest between Republican Kari Lake and Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in the race to replace retiring Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an independent who caucuses with Democrats.

The state Supreme Court's ruling reviving an abortion ban passed in 1864 also added rocket fuel to Democrats' push to add a question to the November ballot asking voters to approve a constitutional amendment protecting the right to abortion until viability, when a fetus could survive outside the womb. Later abortions would be allowed to save the woman's life or protect her physical or mental health.

Trump campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita, who also serves as chief of staff to the Republican National Committee, described Arizona as a key part of the strategy.

He declined to discuss any specifics on strategy but disagreed that the abortion ruling fundamentally changed Arizona's dynamics.

Is abortion an issue that the campaign has to deal with in the battleground states  and more specifically in Arizona? Absolutely. We feel that we are doing that and we are exceeding what we need to do, LaCivita said, even as he suggested other issues would be more salient for most Arizona voters this fall.

The election is going to be determined really in large part based on the key issues that the vast majority of Arizonans have to deal with every single day, and that's, Can I afford to put food on the table and feed my family and get in the car to go to work?' he said.

Democrats are quick to note that they have won virtually every major election in which abortion was on the ballot since the June 2022 reversal of Roe v. Wade.

The Biden campaign on Thursday launched a statewide abortion-related advertising campaign that it said would reach seven figures, although ad tracking firms had yet to confirm the new investment. The new ads come in addition to a $30 million nationwide advertising blitz that was already underway, according to Biden campaign spokesman Kevin Munoz.

In the new ad, Biden links Arizona's abortion restrictions directly to Trump.

Your body and your decisions belong to you, not the government, not Donald Trump, Biden says. I will fight like hell to get your freedom back.

Beyond the ad campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to appear in Arizona on Friday to highlight the Democrats' dedication to preserving abortion rights.

Even without this week's abortion ruling, Democrats were already betting big on Arizona this fall.

Biden's team is on track to spend more than USD 22 million on Arizona advertising between April 1 and Election Day, according to data collected by the ad tracking firm AdImpact. That's millions more than other swing states like Wisconsin, Georgia and Nevada. Only Pennsylvania and Michigan are seeing more Democratic advertising dollars.

Trump's team, meanwhile, isn't spending anything on Arizona advertising this month and hasn't yet reserved any general election advertising in the state, according to AdImpact.

Yet Trump remains bullish on the state, which had backed a Republican presidential candidate in every election since 1996 before it narrowly supported Biden in 2020. They point to a modest shift among Hispanic voters, a core group in the Democratic coalition, which may be more open to Trump.

Meanwhile, Arizona Republicans are still bogged down by GOP infighting in a state where the party apparatus built and nurtured by the late Sen. John McCain has been usurped by Trump's Make America Great Again loyalists.

The division came to a head in the 2022 primary for governor, when Trump and his allies lined up enthusiastically behind Kari Lake, while traditional conservatives and the business establishment backed her rival.

Lake won the primary. Rather than mend fences with the vanquished establishment, she gloated that she drove a stake through the heart of the McCain machine. She's since made a more concerted effort behind the scenes to win over her GOP critics, with mixed results.

Lake, a major MAGA figure sometimes discussed as a potential Trump running mate, is now running in the state's high-profile Senate race.

Like Trump, she has come out against the latest abortion ruling, arguing it is too restrictive. But two years ago, Lake called the abortion ban a great law," said she was incredibly thrilled that it was on the books and predicted it would be setting the course for other states to follow.

The ruling played straight into the hands of Gallego, her Democratic rival, who had already put abortion rights at the centre of his pitch to Arizona voters.

I think we were on our way to winning this, he said in an interview. I think what it does is it focuses people's attention on abortion rights that maybe weren't thinking about it as the most important thing or one of the top issues."

Meanwhile, Anzalone, the Biden pollster, warned his party against overconfidence.

It's not going to be easy. These are all close races. I'm not getting ahead of myself in any way," he said of the fight for Arizona this fall. "But we like the advantage we have there. (AP)

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London, Apr 12 (PTI) An Indian-origin former manager of a Post Office in England wrongly jailed while pregnant has rejected the apology of a former boss of the government-owned entity during an ongoing public inquiry into the accounting scandal.

Seema Misra, now 47, had her conviction quashed in April 2021 as the Court of Appeal ruled that she had been wrongly imprisoned over 12 years ago after being accused of stealing GBP 75,000 from her Post Office branch in Surrey where she was the sub-postmistress.

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During Thursday's hearings for the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry in London, former Post Office Managing Director David Smith apologised for a congratulatory email he sent after Misra's conviction.

It was intended to be a congratulatory email to the team, knowing that they had worked hard on the case, Smith said in his written evidence to the inquiry.

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However, knowing what I do now, it is evident that my email would have caused Seema Misra and her family substantial distress to read and I would like to apologise for that Even if this had been a correct conviction, I would never think that it was brilliant news' for a pregnant woman to go to prison and I am hugely apologetic that my email can be read as such, he said.

However, seeing this email in the light of what I know now, I understand the anger and the upset that it will have caused and sincerely apologise for that, he added.

But, speaking to reporters later, Misra rejected the apology which comes many years after her ordeal.

"I was eight weeks pregnant  they need to apologise to my youngest son. It was terrible. I haven't accepted the apologies," Misra told the BBC.

"We had my conviction overturned, nobody came at that time to apologise. And now they just suddenly realised that when they have to appear in a public inquiry, they have to apologise," she said.

Misra was sent to Bronzefield prison in south-east England and served four-and-a-half months, later giving birth to her second son wearing an electronic tag.

Smith told the inquiry that Misra had been used as a "test case" and the success of the case led to more confidence in the faulty Horizon IT accounting system.

"How can they do a test on a human being? I'm a living creature. I heard that my case had been used as a test case before. But hearing it again and again, it's just annoying. It makes me more and more angry, to be honest," Misra told Sky News' concerning his evidence.

The UK government, which formally owns Post Office Ltd, has paid out millions in compensation to hundreds of sub-postmasters  many of them of Indian heritage  impacted by the faulty Horizon software.

Earlier this year, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged action in the historic scandal which wrongly accused sub-postmasters of fraud.

Last month, a new law tabled in Parliament introduced the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill, a blanket exoneration to quash convictions brought about by erroneous Horizon evidence. A public inquiry in the case, underway in a phased manner, is expected to conclude in July.

The controversial Horizon system, developed by the Japanese company Fujitsu, was first rolled out in 1999 to some post offices for variable tasks, including accounting and stocktaking. However, it appeared to have significant bugs, which could cause the system to misreport, sometimes involving large sums as in the case of these sub-postmasters.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington, Apr 12 (PTI) US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has told lawmakers that by bolstering the Indian military's capabilities, the nations can work together to uphold a more stable balance of power across the wider Indo-Pacific.

He also told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee during a Congressional hearing this week on the annual budget of the Department of Defense that the militaries of the US and India are accelerating operational activities to boost maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

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"By bolstering the Indian military's capabilities, we can work together to uphold a more stable balance of power across the wider Indo-Pacific," Austin said and added that "with this budget request, we are beginning a new chapter in US-India relations under our Major Defense Partnership".

The defense secretary said, "Our militaries are accelerating joint exercises, information-sharing and other operational activities to boost maritime security in the Indian Ocean."

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"We are committed to ensuring that the growing US-India partnership supports the efforts of our broader network of allies and partners, especially the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue among Australia, India, Japan, and the United States," Austin said.

At a separate Congressional hearing on the Indo-Pacific, the Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral John C Aquilino, told lawmakers that a strong US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is essential to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

In 2023, the US and India launched INDUS-X and completed a roadmap for US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation to enhance bilateral defense industrial cooperation and innovation, he said. The proposed deal between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for domestic Indian production of the F-414 jet engines exemplifies this approach.

"The US and India are seeking unprecedented levels of interoperability by expanding cooperation in the air domain through the participation of US B-1B bombers in India's biennial air show AERO INDIA and bilateral air exercise COPE INDIA," Aquilino said.

He said that additionally, in the land domain, "we conducted the largest-ever bilateral joint amphibious exercise with India, TIGER TRIUMPH, improving our cooperation on maritime domain awareness and strengthening service-to-service ties".

"USINDOPACOM (or the United States Indo-Pacific Command) seeks to deepen cooperation under the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) to enable more regular and flexible engagements in the Indian Ocean region, including US ship repair in Indian shipyards," he said.

Two new Master Ship Repair Agreements were signed in 2023, and three US Navy vessels have recently received maintenance and repair in Indian shipyards, the US admiral said.

Aquilino also told lawmakers that in 2021, amid its long-running border dispute with India, China passed a land border law "which asserted that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the (People's Republic of China) are sacred and inviolable" and provided a legal framework for greater People's Liberation Army involvement in border security.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addresses joint meeting of Congress at the U.S. Capitol in Washington (Photo/Reuters)

Washington, DC [US], April 12 (ANI): On his maiden state visit to the US, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed a joint meeting of Congress saying that the lawmakers in the US are suffering from "self-doubt" at a time when US leadership is most needed, The Hill reported on Friday.

"You believed that freedom is the oxygen of humanity. The world needs the United States to continue playing this pivotal role in the affairs of nations," Kishida said.

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"And yet, as we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be," he added.

It was the first speech by a foreign leader presided over by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who is overseeing a conference in chaos, with a small group of GOP lawmakers frequently blocking efforts to legislate based on their own criticisms, The Hill reported.

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Kishida's government has drawn a direct line between supporting Ukraine in its defensive war against Russia as essential to deterring China from launching aggression against Taiwan and triggering a war in East Asia.

"As I often say, Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow," he said. At this line, while Harris and other members stood and applauded, Johnson remained seated.

Earlier in his speech, Kishida highlighted that China's military actions present an unprecedented challenge to the peace and stability of the international community.

"China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan, but to the peace and stability of the international community at large."

Kishida's plea spoke to a rare agreement on both sides of the aisle in Congress recognising China as the priority threat to the present, US-led global order.

The Hill reported that Kishida's appeal was aimed directly at Republicans who view US engagement on the world stage as a trade-off to focusing on problems at home. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington, Apr 12 (PTI) Celebrating the contributions of Hindus and Hinduism to the US, a prominent Indian-American Congressman has introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives condemning Hinduphobia, anti-Hindu bigotry, hate and intolerance.

The resolution that was introduced by Congressman Shri Thanedar on Wednesday has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

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The resolution reads that despite their positive contributions to the United States, Hindu Americans face stereotypes and disinformation about their heritage and symbols, and have been the targets of bullying in schools and on college campuses, as well as discrimination, hate speech, and bias-motivated crimes.

According to the FBI's Hate Crimes Statistics Report, anti-Hindu hate crimes targeting mandirs and persons are annually on the rise while in parallel Hinduphobia in American society is unfortunately rising, the resolution said.

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Noting that the United States has welcomed more than four million Hindus from all corners of the world since the 1900s, representing diverse racial, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds, the resolution asserts that the country has greatly benefited from contributions by Hindu Americans in every aspect of the nation's economy and every industry.

About a fortnight ago, Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, Thanedar, Ami Bera and Pramila Jayapal had written to the Department of Justice to request a briefing from them on the status of investigations concerning an alarming increase in incidents of vandalism at houses of worship across the country including at Hindu temples to better understand existing law enforcement coordination between local agencies, the FBI, and the Civil Rights Division.

"Attacks at mandirs from New York to California have contributed to increased collective anxiety among Hindu Americans. Leaders from these impacted communities have expressed there are unfortunately no leads on suspects, leaving many to continue to live in fear and intimidation. Our communities remain concerned about law enforcement coordination regarding these bias-motivated crimes, and they are left wondering if there is appropriate federal oversight to ensure equal protection under the law," said the letter dated March 29.

The number of incidents and the closeness of the timing of incidents raise troubling questions about linkages and the intent behind them. It takes relatively few coordinated acts of hate to create fear nationally within a community that has often been marginalised or neglected, and we must work collaboratively to combat hate against all religious, ethnic, racial, and cultural minorities in America.

"We therefore request that you provide us with an understanding of what the Department's strategy is specifically concerning hate crimes targeting Hindus in the United States," said the letter.

Khanderao Kand, Chief of Policy and Strategy from the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies said that in the first quarter of this year, there has been a sudden spike in vandalism as well as thefts in temples in America intimidating devotees.

"On the background of local officials often failing to investigate the cases to find culprits, we thank the Indian-American House of Representatives for asking the FBI and DOJ to investigate. We hope that the FBI/DOJ will investigate to find any campaign or conspiracy that exists behind such attacks to assure peace-loving Indian diaspora / South Asians about their safety and freedom of religion," he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Geneva, April 12: A panel of experts from the United Nations on Thursday expressed major dismay at the continuing lack of protection for young women and girls belonging to minority communities in Pakistan, the United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner said in a press statement.

The panel of experts included Tomoya Obokata, Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences; Siobhan Mullally, Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children; Nicolas Levrat, Special Rapporteur on minority issues; Nazila Ghanea, Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief; Dorothy Estrada Tanck (Chair), Claudia Flores, Ivana Krstic, Haina Lu, and Laura Nyirinkindi, Working group on discrimination against women and girls. Elon Musk Advocates for Indias UNSC Membership, Says India Not Having Permanent Seat on the Security Council Is Absurd'.

According to the same UN press release the experts expressed concern that forced marriages and religious conversions of girls from religious minorities which have been coerced are validated by the courts, often invoking religious law to justify keeping victims with their abductors rather than allowing them to return to their parents.

The press release claimed, "The exposure of young women and girls belonging to religious minority communities to such heinous human rights violations and the impunity of such crimes can no longer be tolerated or justified. Christian and Hindu girls remain particularly vulnerable to forced religious conversion, abduction, trafficking, child, early and forced marriage, domestic servitude and sexual violence," the experts said. Benjamin Netanyahu Warns if US Does Not Veto UNSC Resolution Demanding Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza, Israel Delegation Will Not Visit.

The experts also mentioned that the "Perpetrators often escape accountability, with police dismissing crimes under the guise of 'love marriages". The UN press release also mentioned that any child, early or forced marriage cannot be justified in any case. According to international law, any consent remains irrelevant in the case of marriage, provided the victim is a minor (anyone younger than 18 years).

"A woman's right to choose a spouse and freely enter into marriage is central to her life, dignity, and equality as a human being and must be protected and upheld by law," the experts said. They stressed the need for provisions to invalidate, annul or dissolve marriages contracted under duress, with due consideration for the women and girls concerned, and to ensure access to justice, remedy, protection and adequate assistance for victims.

UN experts also highlighted the cases of forced religious conversions.

Calling out the incident of Mishal Rasheed, a young girl who was abducted at gunpoint from her home while preparing for school in 2022. Rasheed was sexually assaulted, forcibly converted to Islam and forced to marry her abductor.

They also noted that on March 13, 2024, a 13-year-old Christian girl was allegedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam and married to her abductor after her age was recorded as 18 on the marriage certificate. Notwithstanding the right of children to freedom of thought, conscience and religion following Article 14 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, change of religion or belief in all circumstances must be free, without coercion and undue inducements.

"The Pakistani authorities must enact and rigorously enforce laws to ensure that marriages are contracted only with the free and full consent of the intended spouses and that the minimum age for marriage is raised to 18, including for girls," the experts said. "All women and girls must be treated without discrimination, including those belonging to the Christian and Hindu communities, or indeed other religions and beliefs," the panel of experts stated.

Conclusively, the experts called upon Pakistan to bring the perpetrators to justice, enforce existing legal protections against child, early and forced marriage, abduction and trafficking of minority girls, and uphold the country's international human rights obligations.
Washington/Beijing, Apr 12 (PTI) The United States' commitments to the defence of Japan and the Philippines remain "ironclad," President Joe Biden has said as he launched a new trilateral partnership in the strategic Indo-Pacific with the leaders of the two countries amid their separate territorial disputes with China.

Biden's comments came as he hosted the first-ever trilateral summit between the three countries, welcoming Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the White House a day after the official visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

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Japan and the Philippines have separate territorial disputes with China. In Tokyo's case, the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea and in Manila's case areas of the South China Sea are disputed with Beijing.

Biden also asserted that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or its armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke "our mutual defence treaty".

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The visit to Washington by Marcos comes days after Manila accused a Chinese vessel of "highly dangerous manoeuvres" near the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed maritime region near the Spratly Islands.

The US-Japan-Philippines trilateral comes after the creation of groupings in the Indo-Pacific, starting with the Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia and Japan, and the AUKUS consisting of Australia, the US and the UK, amid increasing concerns over China's military muscle-flexing in the region.

The US president said "a great deal of history in our world will be written in the Indo-Pacific over the coming years".

"Today we commit to writing that story in the future together to build an Indo-Pacific that is free, open, prosperous and secure for all," Biden said as he described the US, Japan and the Philippines as "three allies, three steadfast partners and three proud democracies".

Biden said among the key areas where the countries are deepening ties are "first, technology and clean energy for securing our semiconductor supply chain".

"From securing our semiconductor supply chain to expanding trusted telecommunications in the Philippines to building a clean energy workforce, to expanding our cooperation across the entire board," the US president said.

"Second, we are deepening our maritime and security ties. I want to be clear, the United States' defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad. As I've said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty," he said.

Biden also announced launching an economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G-7's partnership for global infrastructure and investment.

"This is the first corridor in the Indo-Pacific. It means more jobs for people across the entire region. It means more investment and sectors critical to our future clean energy, ports, railroads, agriculture, and much more," he said.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida said amid the compound crisis faced by the global community, multi-layered cooperation between allies and like-minded countries is essential if they are to maintain and bolster a free and open international order based on the rule of law.

"Today's meeting will make history as an occasion that significantly pushed forward such an initiative. Japan, the US, and the Philippines are maritime nations connected by the Pacific Ocean and our natural partners. We share fundamental values and principles, and have supported regional economic development," he said.

In his remarks, Philippine President Marcos said, "We meet today as friends and partners bound by a shared vision and pursuit of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific."

It is a partnership born not out of convenience, nor of expediency, but as a natural progression of a deepening relation and robust cooperation amongst the three countries, linked by a profound respect for democracy, good governance and the rule of law, he said.

"Today's historic summit is a culmination of several preparatory engagements between our foreign ministries, our national security advisors, and our vice ministers, as well as the conduct of trilateral maritime exercises and joint development cooperation. But this meeting can be just a beginning," he said.

Facing the complex challenges of the present time requires concerted efforts on everyone's part, a dedication to a common purpose and an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order, Marcos said.

"This is a meeting that looks ahead as we deepen our ties and enhance our coordination. We seek to identify ways of growing our economies and making them more resilient, climate-proofing our cities and our societies, sustaining our development progress and forging a peaceful world for the next generation," he said.

The leaders in a joint statement issued later said the "historic" summit is the culmination of decades of partnership and builds on the recent momentum of the three governments' trilateral efforts.

"Our three nations share a firm commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, inclusive and resilient. We welcome coordination and cooperation with a wide range of partners who share these goals. In that spirit, we affirm our unwavering support for ASEAN centrality and unity, and the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific," the joint statement said.

The leaders welcomed efforts to support a peaceful, stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, including from the Quad, the AUKUS and the US-Japan-Republic of Korea trilateral framework, according to the statement.

Reacting to the trilateral meeting in Washington and the joint statement, China said it strongly opposes the practice of bloc politics by relevant countries.

"We firmly oppose any acts that stoke and drive up tensions and harm other countries' strategic security and interests. We are seriously against forming exclusive groupings in this region," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in Beijing in response to a question.

"Japan and the Philippines have every right to develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not introduce bloc confrontation into this region, still less engage in trilateral cooperation at the expense of other countries' interests," she said.

Mao also claimed that China has indisputable sovereignty over Diaoyu Dao (Senkaku Islands) and its affiliated islands and Nanhai Zhudao (the South China Sea Islands).

"Our activities in the East China Sea and South China Sea are lawful, justified and beyond reproach. China does not accept relevant countries' groundless accusations and deliberate smears against us on the East China Sea and South China Sea," she added.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington, Apr 12 (AP) China has surged sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow in turn is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry for use in its war against Ukraine, according to a US assessment.

Two senior Biden administration officials, who discussed the sensitive findings Friday on the condition of anonymity, said that in 2023 about 90 per cent of Russia's microelectronics came from China, which Russia has used to make missiles, tanks and aircraft.

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Nearly 70 per cent of Russia's approximately USD 900 million in machine tool imports in the last quarter of 2023 came from China.

Chinese and Russian entities have also been working to jointly produce unmanned aerial vehicles inside Russia, and Chinese companies are likely providing Russia with nitrocellulose needed to make propellants weapons, the officials said.

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Beijing is also working with Russia to improve its satellite and other space-based capabilities for use in Ukraine, a development the officials say could in the longer term increase the threat Russia poses across Europe. The officials, citing downgraded intelligence findings, said the US has also determined that China is providing imagery to Russia for its war on Ukraine.

The officials discussed the findings as Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to travel to China this month for talks. President Joe Biden has previously raised his concerns directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping about Beijing indirectly supporting Russia's war effort.

While China has not provided direct lethal military support for Russia, it has backed it diplomatically in blaming the West for provoking Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to launch the war and refrained from calling it an invasion in deference to the Kremlin.

China has also said it isn't providing Russia with arms or military assistance, although it has maintained robust economic connections with Moscow, alongside India and other countries, amid sanctions from Washington and its allies.

Xi met in Beijing on Tuesday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who heaped praise on Xi's leadership.

Russia's growing economic and diplomatic isolation has made it increasingly reliant on China, its former rival for leadership of the Communist bloc during the Cold War.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who returned to Washington this week from a visit to Beijing, said she warned Chinese officials that the Biden administration was prepared to sanction Chinese banks, companies and Beijing's leadership, if they assist Russia's armed forces with its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

The Democratic president issued an executive order in December giving Yellen the authority to sanction financial institutions that aided Russia's military-industrial complex.

We continue to be concerned about the role that any firms, including those in the PRC, are playing in Russia's military procurement, Yellen told reporters, using the initials for the Peoples Republic of China.

"I stressed that companies, including those in the PRC, must not provide material support for Russia's war and that they will face significant consequences if they do. And I reinforced that any banks that facilitate significant transactions that channel military or dual-use goods to Russia's defense industrial base expose themselves to the risk of US sanctions.

Meanwhile, China on Thursday announced rare sanctions against two US defence companies over what it called their support for arms sales to Taiwan, the self-governing island democracy Beijing claims as its own territory to be recovered by force if necessary.

The announcement freezes the assets of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and General Dynamics Land Systems held within China. It also bars the companies' management from entering the country.

Filings show General Dynamics operates a half-dozen Gulfstream and jet aviation services operations in China, which remains heavily reliant on foreign aerospace technology even as it attempts to build its own presence in the field.

The company also helps make the Abrams tank being purchased by Taiwan to replace outdated armour intended to deter or resist an invasion from China.

General Atomics produces the Predator and Reaper drones used by the US military. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Marvel Studios electrified CinemaCon attendees with a breathtaking glimpse into the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, unveiled exclusive footage from the highly anticipated Captain America 4. As per The Hollywood Reporter, the event held in Las Vegas also featured tantalizing teasers for Deadpool and Wolverine, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. Captain America-Brave New World: Marvel Studios Changes Title of Fourth Captain America Movie Starring Anthony Mackie and Harrison Ford.

During the panel presentation, Feige and actor Anthony Mackie, who portrays the iconic hero Sam Wilson, took to the stage to introduce Captain America: Brave New World. Feige reminisced about the enduring legacy of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, promising that the forthcoming instalment would maintain the same thrilling and grounded essence.

First Look at Anthony Mackie in Captain America: Brave New World

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the attendees were also treated to a riveting clip that showcased Wilson embracing his role as the new Captain America. Since his debut in 2014's The Winter Soldier, Mackie has captivated audiences with his portrayal of Sam Wilson, a journey culminating in his ascent to the mantle of Captain America. His transition, explored in the Disney+ series Falcon and the Winter Soldier, resonated deeply as he grappled with the weight of the shield in a divided America.

Directed by Julius Onah, Captain America 4 introduces esteemed actor Harrison Ford to the MCU, portraying Thunderbolt Ross. The footage obtained by The Hollywood Reporter depicted a tense exchange between Ross and Wilson, set against the backdrop of a White House meeting. A startling twist unfolds as former soldier Isiah Bradley, played by Carl Lumbly, becomes embroiled in the chaos, posing a threat to the President.

Marvel's strategic shift towards quality over quantity was evident, with Feige emphasizing a recalibration in their approach. With a reduced slate of releases, including the much-anticipated Deadpool and Wolverine and Fantastic Four, Marvel aims to deliver unparalleled storytelling experiences. The Fantastic Four Confirms Main Cast and Release Date; Upcoming MCU Film to Release on July 25, 2025 (View Pic).

As the teaser concluded with a poignant exchange between Wilson and Ross, the anticipation for Captain America 4 reached a fever pitch. Mackie's resolute response, "I'm not [Steve Rogers]," underscores the transformative journey ahead for Marvel's newest Captain America. With its release slated for February 14, 2025, fans eagerly await the dawn of a brave new era in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Hyderabad, April 12: Struggling to meet drinking water requirements during the scorching summer, Telangana will approach Karnataka for the release of water from Narayanpur dam across the Krishna river. As there is no availability of water in the Krishna basin, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Friday asked the officials to consult the Karnataka government for the release of water from Narayanpur reservoir for drinking water needs.

The Chief Minister, who reviewed the drinking water situation in the state, directed the officials to take precautionary measures to prevent drinking water problems in all the towns and villages. He cautioned that the next two months will be more crucial in view of the scorching heat. Pune Water Crisis: After Bengaluru, Water Shortage Looms Over Maharashtra City As Borewells Dry Up.

Although more drinking water is being supplied compared to last year, it is not enough to meet the water requirement of people, he observed. The present situation has arisen due to the depletion of the groundwater level.

The CM alerted the officials to get ready with alternative arrangements even if the demand increases further without any disruption to the supply of drinking water in Hyderabad. If necessary, water will be lifted from Nagarjuna Sagar dead storage to Hyderabad and appropriate arrangements should be made immediately. Agra Water Crisis: Water Shortage Looms Large Over City As Summer Heat Intensifies.

Arrangements will also be made for the supply of Singur water to the city. The officials were asked to continuously monitor the supply of drinking water without interruption and rectify the complaints immediately.

The Chief Secretary will hold a review meeting on the drinking water supply every day with the top officials of Mission Bhagiratha, Municipal, Irrigation and Energy Departments. The special officers for drinking water supply for the combined districts have been directed to visit the places facing drinking water problems and take measures to solve the problem and bring it to the attention of the higher officials.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the paddy procurement. He warned that strict action would be taken against those who bought paddy from the farmers at lower prices and asked officials to crack down on the millers who cheated farmers.

The trade licenses of the millers and traders who buy paddy at low prices in the agricultural market yards will be cancelled and they will be blacklisted. Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy and Information and Public Relations Minister P Srinivas Reddy also participated in the meeting.

Revanth Reddy said it came to his notice that traders and millers reduced the prices due to moisture content in the paddy in some places, and appealed to the farmers to dry the paddy, which contained higher levels of moisture, before bringing it to markets, to get a good price for their agricultural produce. The officials have been asked to make suitable arrangements for drying the paddy and also install CCTVs in the market yards to prevent paddy theft.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 12, 2024 11:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Ancient humans moved to America 25,000 years ago. They told stories of their lives and how they changed the environment in stunning cave art.Humans first crossed into the American continent from Asia via the Bering Strait in several waves of migration between 25,000-15,000 years ago. The migrating hunter-gatherers found landscapes untouched by humans and full of unknown plants and animals.

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Paleo-Indian cultures migrating through (what is now) Latin America left traces of their lives, painting rock art in caves and on cliff faces.

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These paintings trace how early cultures learned to live in their new environments. They also give researchers clues about the ways the ancient humans left their legacies on the region's biodiversity and culture today.

Key evidence about early Paleo-Indian culture has come from Latin America's oldest cave art at Serrania de La Lindosa, in Colombia.

The paintings there are thought to be 12,800 years old, which dates them around the end of the Ice Age.

Francisco Javier Aceituno, an archeologist at the University of Antioquia, Colombia, described the art there as "photographs of the past." Aceituno has spent years studying the caves .

"We have been able to compare the rock paintings with the results of the archaeological excavations we have carried out. We have excavated the 'houses of the artists' who painted the wall," he told DW via email.

The art, mostly in red ochre, depicts various animal species, which some scholars suggest could be now-extinct animals, such as ground sloths and species of native horses, or domesticated species, including cows and dogs.

But these scenes of nature are more than just creative expressions. Experts believe the drawings served as educational tools that helped teach younger generations when and how to manage different plant and animal species  not just in Colombia, but all over South America.

Evidence found in a Patagonian cave, for example, suggests paintings from 8,200 years ago were used to pass information across 130 human generations, perhaps helping people to survive changing climates.

Cave art shows early spirituality

Much of the cave art at Serrania de La Lindosa, as well as those in other parts of South America, contain symbolic art depicting the spiritual world.

"[There are] scenes of dancing rituals or shamanic rites. With these spiritual scenes, [people were] trying to domesticate the natural world by controlling the forces of nature," said Aceituno.

Spirituality is evident in ancient art all over the world, both through painting and music. Experts say this evidence reveals the earliest forms of religion, when humans formed a sacred connection with the natural world.

Hallucinogenic drugs, of which many are native across the Americas, may have played an important role in early spirituality and religious ceremonies.

Paleo-Indians in California, for example, were thought to have used hallucinogenic drugs to induce spiritual states, like LSD parties which swept California in the 1960s or contemporary Ayahuasca use in Brazil.

How did Paleo-Indian cultures influence modern Amazonia?

Between 13,000-8,000 years ago, Amazonia transformed from a dry savannah and scrubland into the tropical rainforests we know today.

The period saw rapid changes in climate and local cultures had to learn to adapt.

Excavations at Serrania de La Lindosa allowed Aceituna and his colleagues to indirectly date the cave art to the beginning of this period of transformation.

But the most amazing discovery, said Aceituna, was that human cultures had lived in the Serrania de La Lindosa for over 12,000 years.

Aceituna believes they may have strongly influenced Amazonia's biodiversity and plant-life during the climate transition  and that we can still see this today.

Rock art in the region, for example, shows hints that humans were managing plant species about 9000 years ago. That could explain a persistence of useful plants in Amazonia now.

Amazonia has an unusual richness of plants used for food and medicine. Many medicines and drugs, including quinine and cocaine originate from the Amazon, earning it the nickname "the world's largest medicine cabinet".

"They [Paleo-Indians] achieved a balance in the management of natural resources. Plants and animals were more than food  they were also seen as living beings to be respected. [People used] the preservation principle: I cannot extinguish my resources, my food," Aceituno said.

Genetic history of Indigenous groups not yet known

Another legacy, Aceituna said, was the heritage of Paleolithic groups in ethnic groups living in Latin America today.

"Current Indigenous groups [in the region] have inherited some traditions and ways of exploiting the forest, and [Mesoamerican] cosmovision," said Aceituna.

Elements of the Mesoamerican cosmovision  their worldview  can be seen in things like the Day of the Dead ceremony and the Indigenous belief that everything in the universe is part of a pair.

But we cannot be sure that current Indigenous communities are direct descendants of Paleo-Indian cultures "in a biological sense," said Aceituna.

Recent advances in testing ancient DNA could, however, help discover the genetic history of local Indigenous groups, and with the help of other cave art, trace how their cultures spread around South America.

Edited by: Zulfikar Abbany

Sources:

Colonisation and early peopling of the Colombian Amazon during the Late Pleistocene and the Early Holocene: New evidence from La Serrania La Lindosa, in Quaternary International, 2021, by Gaspar Morcote-Rios, Francisco Javier Aceituno, et al. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.quaint.2020.04.026

Earliest directly dated rock art from Patagonia reveals socioecological resilience to mid-Holocene climate in Science Advances, 2024, by Guadalupe Romero Villanueva et al. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adk4415

Datura quids at Pinwheel Cave, California, provide unambiguous confirmation of the ingestion of hallucinogens at a rock art site in PNAS Anthropology, 2020, by Robinson DW, Brown K, McMenemy M, et al. https://www.pnas.org/doi/suppl/10.1073/pnas.2014529117

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 12, 2024 04:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador declared on Thursday that his nation is pushing for the United Nations to suspend Ecuador from the global body.

This move is part of a complaint filed with the top UN court regarding Ecuador's recent police raid on the Mexico embassy in Quito, AP News reports.

Mexico's Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena stated at a press briefing that Mexico is asking for Ecuador's suspension from the United Nations unless Ecuador publicly apologizes for violating international law. The aim is to ensure compensation for Mexico and its citizens.

Tensions between the two nations escalated following Ecuadorian authorities' forceful entry into the diplomatic mission to arrest former Vice President Jorge Glas, who sought asylum in Mexico.

Mexico's formal complaint at the International Court of Justice in the Netherlands demands Ecuador's suspension from the UN, seeking reparation for damages caused and a promise to refrain from such actions in the future.

READ NEXT: White House Criticizes Ecuador for Embassy Raid Amid Mexico Tensions

Ecuador's Defense and Mexico's Appeal

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa defended the Mexico embassy raid, citing the necessity to detain Glas, who was deemed a flight risk. He expressed willingness to resolve differences with Mexico, according to Barron's.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) acknowledged Mexico's application, wherein Mexico accuses Ecuador of violating its international obligations.

Mexico urges the court to suspend Ecuador from the United Nations until it issues a public apology and ensures reparation for the harm inflicted.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' spokesperson emphasized that the decision to suspend a country lies with member states, advocating for dialogue to resolve tensions.

Mexico also seeks provisional measures from international judges to safeguard its diplomatic officials and premises.

Glas's Situation and International Reaction

Glas, facing charges of corruption, sought refuge in the Mexico embassy, where he was later arrested by Ecuadorian authorities.

Mexico released footage illustrating the forceful entry into its embassy.

The US National Security Adviser condemned Ecuador's actions, asserting they were improper.

The Organization of American States (OAS) echoed concerns, emphasizing adherence to diplomatic laws.

OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro criticized the use of force, highlighting the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Neither "the use of force, the illegal incursion into a diplomatic mission, nor the detention of an asylee are the peaceful way toward resolution of this situation", Almagro stated.

Ecuador defended its actions, questioning Glas's eligibility for asylum and reaffirming its commitment to combat corruption. Ecuador's foreign minister dismissed the notion of a public apology, citing ongoing discussions, Aljazeera noted.

Glas, now in custody, has embarked on a hunger strike, with former President Rafael Correa alleging a suicide attempt.

The recent discord between Mexico and Ecuador highlights the intricate nature of global diplomacy and underscores the significance of respecting established diplomatic procedures.

As the dispute unfolds before the International Court of Justice, the world watches closely for a resolution that upholds principles of sovereignty, asylum, and justice.

READ MORE: Argentina's President Javier Milei Scheduled to Meet Elon Musk

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Mexico cuts diplomatic ties with Ecuador after police raid Mexican embassy | Jorge Glas - From Sky News
The Trump campaign is urging the Commission on Presidential Debates to expedite the timeline for the scheduled 2024 debates between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, calling for an increase in the number of faceoffs before Election Day.

The campaign's request emphasizes the significance of early voting in many states, advocating for an earlier start to debates to ensure a broader audience can witness the candidates in action, The Hill reports.

In a letter addressed to commission members, Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita stressed the need for debates to commence earlier, aligning with the trend of early voting observed in recent elections.

They emphasized that the proposed 2024 debate schedule must be adjusted to allow more Americans the opportunity to evaluate the candidates before casting their votes.

The first presidential debate is currently slated for September 16 in San Marcos, Texas, which, despite being earlier than previous cycles, still falls short of the campaign's proposed timeline.

READ NEXT: New National Poll Shows Donald Trump Edging Out Joe Biden by 1%

Trump's Perspective on Early 2024 Debates

Former President Donald Trump underscored the urgency of early debates in an interview with Fox News Digital, citing various pressing issues such as the southern border crisis, national security concerns, rising crime rates, and economic challenges.

He expressed a willingness to engage in debates at any time and place, highlighting the importance of informing voters about the state of the nation.

Trump's remarks emphasized his commitment to debating Biden on critical issues affecting the country.

The Trump campaign's letter to the debate commission urged fairness and impartiality in organizing the debates, pointing out perceived concessions made to the Joe Biden campaign during the 2020 debates.

The campaign drew a historical comparison, citing the seven debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas in the 1858 U.S. Senate race.

Senate battle, suggesting that contemporary America deserves a similar level of engagement and discourse.

The campaign reiterated Trump's readiness to participate in the 2024 debates and emphasized the significance of early engagement for voters.

Biden's Response and Outlook

President Joe Biden and his campaign have yet to commit to debates against Donald Trump, with Biden indicating that his decision may hinge on Trump's behavior, according to CNN.

Biden's previous remarks suggest a willingness to engage in debates, albeit with reservations about Trump's conduct.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Biden's participation, the Trump campaign remains steadfast in its call for early and robust debates, echoing the sentiment that informed voter engagement is essential for the democratic process.

As the debate over debate schedules continues, the Commission on Presidential 2024 Debates faces mounting pressure to accommodate the requests of both campaigns while ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.

The result of these talks will influence the dynamics of the 2024 presidential campaign, affecting how voters view the candidates and shaping discussions on key national issues.

READ MORE: 7 More States Sue Education Department Over Joe Biden's SAVE Plan

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Trump ready to debate Biden at any time: Trump campaign press secretary | The Hill - From NewsNation
As Acapulco is still recovering from the massive Category 5 hurricane that destroyed much of its infrastructure, the violence there has largely resumed as another police officer was killed in one of Mexico's most violent cities.

Once considered a tropical paradise where the rich and famous hang out, Acapulco is now home to some of the most violent drug cartels as they wage war with one another over control of territories to ship or sell their illegal products.

According to the Washington Post, Eduardo Chavez, who led the Municipal Traffic Police in Acapulco, was shot to death on Thursday after multiple armed men opened fire on him. He was reportedly attacked and killed on a street that was relatively far away from the resort's beaches.

Police are still investigating his death, and it is still not known which specific drug organization may be behind his killing. However, it is known that Acapulco traffic police often make traffic stops to inspect taxis and buses. This practice has angered various criminal groups as they often force bus and taxi drivers to work for them, either as scouts or couriers for their illegal wares.

In Acapulco, in particular, the drug gangs post beatings of drivers who do not agree to become their lookouts or mules; one such video showed a gang member repeatedly hitting a driver and calling him an "animal," before demanding that he check in with the gang several times a day.

Tourists Have Begun Returning to Acapulco Even Though It Remains One of Mexico's Most Violent Cities

Meanwhile, as the violence continues in Acapulco, a city with one of the highest murder rates in Mexico, tourists have begun to return to the world-famous resort city that is home to some of the most picturesque beaches on Earth.

READ MORE: Mexico: Violence in Guerrero State Continues as Viral Video of Cartel Gunmen Gleefully Kicking Dead Victims Surfaces

Despite this, however, a lot of rebuilding still needs to be done, as only around 8,000 of the city's tens of thousands of hotel rooms have been repaired, with many still struggling from the onslaught of Hurricane Otis in October.

To deal with the violence and rebuilding, the Mexican government has already pledged to build about three dozen barracks for the National Guard in Acapulco. However, as the Associated Press pointed out, even with 10,000 National Guard and 6,500 soldiers, the government has not been able to keep the gang violence at bay.

Drug Trafficking Is the Main Reason Why Acapulco Is One of Mexico's Most Dangerous Cities

Acapulco is in Guerrero State and is considered one of the most beautiful resort cities in all of Mexico. However, in recent years, drug cartels and criminal organizations have taken root in the city and turned it into their own battlefield for control of the lucrative drug trafficking routes.

The violence is happening all over the state, not just in Acapulco, though the resort city does play a strategic role for organized crime groups for several reasons. According to Insight Crime, this is primarily because the state is a hub for marijuana and poppy cultivation and is a rising hub for coca. These products are then shipped from parts of the state through the port of Acapulco.

READ MORE: Mexico Army Kills 12 Alleged Cartel Gunmen in Deadly Shootout

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Acapulco desperate for resources as death toll climbs after Otis - NBC News
In a disturbing series of events, Danielle Johnson, a prominent California astrology influencer known as "Ayoka," allegedly carried out a violent killing spree in Los Angeles on April 8, Independent reports.

Johnson, 34, reportedly stabbed her partner, pushed her children from a moving car, and ultimately ended her own life by crashing her vehicle into a tree.

The violent outburst occurred simultaneously with a total solar eclipse, a rare cosmic phenomenon that Johnson had expressed concerns about in the days before the tragic incident unfolded.

Johnson, under her social media handle "@MysticxLipstick," amassed a sizable following of over 100,000 individuals, where she frequently shared misinformation, conspiracy theories, and antisemitic content.

Her posts included unfounded theories about the origins of COVID-19, alarming warnings regarding the solar eclipse, and divisive messages urging her followers to "pick a side." Investigators are examining her online activity to comprehend the factors contributing to her violent actions.

READ NEXT: Boyfriend of Murdered California Tech Worker Arrested on Suspicion of Fatal Stabbing

Tragic Events Unfold

On the morning of April 8, just hours before the solar eclipse, a California astrology influencer allegedly fatally stabbed her partner, Jaelen Allen Chaney, inside their Woodland Hills apartment.

Subsequently, she forcibly pushed her two daughters, aged 9 and 8 months, from her moving Porsche Cayenne on the 405 Freeway.

Tragically, her 8-month-old daughter succumbed to her injuries, while her older daughter sustained serious harm.

The incident raised concerns about Johnson's mental state and her recent disturbing behavior, which appeared deeply troubled rather than merely attention-seeking.

Law enforcement officials, while acknowledging the absence of prior documented domestic violence incidents involving Johnson and Chaney, are exploring the influence of Johnson's fears about the solar eclipse on her actions, according to Fox11.

Johnson's extensive online presence, marked by antisemitic rhetoric and apocalyptic warnings, underscores the complexities of understanding her motivations.

While her popularity as an astrology influencer soared, her disturbing posts and actions preceding the tragedy raise questions about her mental well-being and the potential intersection of spirituality and mental health.

Insights into Johnson's Background

California astrology influencer's involvement in mysticism and spiritual practices, evidenced by her social media posts and her apartment adorned with tarot cards and altars, offers a glimpse into her deeply entrenched beliefs, the Los Angeles Times noted.

Despite her online popularity and entrepreneurial ventures offering healing sessions and astrological readings, Johnson's descent into violence leaves those familiar with her baffled and grappling with the incongruence between her public persona and her tragic actions.

Family members of Johnson express grief and disbelief, emphasizing the possibility of underlying mental health issues rather than solely attributing her actions to her astrological beliefs.

Mental health experts caution against oversimplifying Johnson's actions, suggesting a nuanced understanding that considers her psychological state alongside her spiritual convictions.

As investigations continue, authorities seek to piece together the events leading up to the tragic killings and offer support to those affected by the devastating consequences of Johnson's actions.

The troubling story of a California astrology influencer, motivated by eclipse fears to commit heinous acts, highlights the intricate relationship between mental health, spirituality, and online influence.

As authorities investigate, the incident sparks discussions about belief, behavior, and well-being in the digital era.

READ MORE: Ohio Teen Shot by Police While Carrying Toy Gun

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Suspect in murder-suicide was astrology influencer - From KTLA 5
In another blow to President Gustavo Petro's efforts to achieve "Total Peace" in Colombia, the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels announced on Thursday that they are "freezing" peace talks with the government that are scheduled for later this month. However, the rebel group stated that they will attend an extraordinary meeting scheduled for Friday.

Petro has restarted talks with the rebels in 2022 to fulfill a campaign promise to end Colombia's six-decade conflict, which has killed at least 450,000 people already. This "freeze" in the talks is the latest setback to Petro as the many rebel groups in Colombia continue to attack government positions and harass civilians even though there was a ceasefire.

The ELN announced that the suspension was due to "government insistence in carrying out a demobilization operation in Narino against the ELN." According to Reuters, the rebel group was referring to the regional talks with one of its factions, with the talks taking place in the southwestern province of Narino.

These parallel talks were "contrary to the fair play and good faith which should characterize negotiations," the rebel group argued. They had objected to similar talks with the Narino communities earlier this year.

"It is necessary not to lose time," warned the Colombian government's negotiating team in its own statement, adding that it was imperative that the work at the negotiating table moves ahead. They added, "The dire situation that people living in the provinces of Arauca, Choco, and Narino are confronting must also be attended to."

Reuters noted that the government has defended the community in those areas and that the "ELN is unnecessarily prolonging negotiations."

The Troubled Negotiations Between the Colombia Government and the ELN Rebels

The negotiations themselves have been hampered by a lot of troubles, with the ELN accusing the Colombian government of violating a previously agreed-upon ceasefire in the Narino conflict by disarming and disbanding the group's organization there.

READ MORE: Colombia: Brother of Powerful Senator Pleads Guilty to Drug Smuggling Charge in US

"The decisions unilaterally taken by the ELN are their complete responsibility, and they generate unnecessary crises that prolong the armed confrontation and the violence that communities suffer, as well as weakening society's confidence in (the rebels') will for peace," the government shot back, according to Atlas News.

The ELN is the last major leftist group in Colombia left after the FARC surrendered. However, Atlas News pointed out that with this latest setback, it "remains unknown whether peaceful disarmament is possible for the armed groups within Colombia."

Rebel Groups Using Amazon Rainforest Deforestation as a Bargaining Chip With Colombia Government

The ELN is not the only target of the Petro administration's "Total Peace" initiative, but also the many other minor armed groups still fighting across Colombia. These armed groups are holed up in some of the country's most remote areas, including the Amazon rainforest.

A report by The Guardian noted that the deforestation in the Colombian Amazon is surging and could be at a historic peak, and one of the reasons is that armed groups are using it as a bargaining chip with the government.

"We are seeing an upward trend that is quite worrying and this has two main reasons," Colombia Environment Minister Susana Muhammad told the outlet, "The first is the very significant coercion [of local people] by armed groups in the area, and the second is obviously the favourable conditions [for fires] that have to do with the El Nino phenomenon."

READ NEXT: Colombia Vice President Francia Marquez Targeted With Roadside Bomb

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Colombia and ELN rebels agree to cease-fire - Associated Press
Arizona Republicans are facing a ton of backlash after the Arizona Supreme Court approved an 1864 law that was a total abortion ban. One of them was Kari Lake, who now wants to repeal the law she strongly supported before the Arizona Supreme Court decision.

This flip-flopping is not sitting well with both progressives and conservatives, with progressives viewing it as a move to shore up independent voters in the election, while conservatives see this as a betrayal of family values.

According to NBC News, Lake has been making calls to Arizona lawmakers so that she could repeal the pre-statehood era law that bans all forms of abortion unless the mother's life is in imminent danger. This was confirmed by a Republican legislator who spoke about receiving a call from her.

The backlash against the ruling was massive, and many, including Donald Trump and Joe Biden, joined in on the condemnation. This sent many Arizona Republicans scrambling to distance themselves from the law as the 2024 elections draw even closer.

Democratic Senate candidate Ruben Gallego, who ran against Lake, pointed out his opponent's hypocrisy on the matter, posting Lake's previous support for the 1864 total abortion ban that Lake previously said that she supported 100%.

Right now, Republicans hold slim majorities in both the State House and the State Senate. With the issue proving to be pivotal for women across the country, many of these Republicans now find their support diminishing as the election approaches.

As for the Democrats in Arizona, Governor Katie Hobbs, who defeated Lake for the seat in 2022, has urged the Legislature to repeal the law. She also said she has been discussing the situation with Republican lawmakers and leadership to repeal the ban.

READ MORE: Arizona House in Chaos After Shouts of 'SHAME!' Were Heard During Abortion Hearing

Kari Lake Praise of 1864 Arizona Abortion Ban Puts Current Position Into Question

Kari Lake, who once called abortion "the ultimate sin," is now backtracking massively as she has shown to be afraid that she might lose some voters in her race against Democrat Ruben Gallego.

In her own words, Lake stated that she was "thrilled" at the prospect of the 1864 Arizona abortion ban being reinstated after Roe V. Wade was repealed by the US Supreme Court.

"I'm incredibly thrilled that we are going to have a great law that's already on the books, I believe it's ARS 13-3603," she said back in 2022, referring to the 1864 abortion ban. "So it will prohibit abortion in Arizona except to save the life of a mother. And I think we're going to be setting the, paving the way and setting course for other states to follow."

Donald Trump Also Flip-Flopped Over Abortion

Lake's flip-flopping position on the controversial Arizona abortion law mirrors that of her biggest ally, former President Donald Trump, who previously bragged about being responsible for overturning Roe V. Wade. That overturn led to the return of the 1864 law, which he is now opposing.

As NBC News pointed out, Trump showed different conflicting stances on abortion in his effort to shore up votes, including embracing states' rights to uphold abortion bans while at the same time distancing himself from a state-based outcome in Arizona while also patting himself on the back for being responsible for the overturn of Roe that led to the return of the law he is trying not to be associated with.

READ MORE: Kari Lake Admits Defeat, Waves White Flag in Arizona Defamation Case

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: CNN anchor rolls tape on Kari Lake's abortion stance before the state Supreme Court ruling - CNN
Two Is a Pattern

One is an event. Two starts a pattern. The social Gemini moon illuminates patterns of human behavior. Automatic reactions are signs of character. Motivations, moves and manipulations also come to light. Understanding peoples reasons and patterns makes us better predictors of behavior, which increases personal power and effectiveness.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Even in your most work-a-day mode you still feel astonishment at lifes essentials, like breath, warmth and the privilege of another trip around the sun. Youll celebrate the mere sense of being in the flow of life.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). For optimum processing speed, your brain requires rest, play and exercise among other things. Sometimes you keep sharp by letting yourself be the opposite. Diffused, random, relaxed silliness can be restorative.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Its said that lessons get repeated until they are learned. But no one can learn everything, nor should you try. If you can go a different way and avoid the issue altogether, do it. If that lesson is important, it will pop up again.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Self-compassion improves interpersonal dynamics because its easier to have compassion for others when your soul and psyche experience the peace of self-acceptance.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Today your luck will run on momentum. It will be carried on the breeze of your movement. It will dance with you when you pivot, keep pace with you when you run, loft you when you leap.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You never know whos falling in love with your smile. Being unaware of the effect you have on others only makes your magnet stronger. All your attention goes into getting to know people better and theres none left for self-doubt.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Charles R. Swindoll said, Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. Though it should be noted he was neither mathematician nor neurologist. What happens affects the plot to widely varying degrees.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Youll sort out your mind. The best way is to record all your thoughts: the good, the bad, the ridiculous and logical alike. Look at them in the light of tomorrow and then distill into a few sentences of clarity.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). The project thats worthy of you will sharpen your mind. You will execute each step with purpose. Youll study the larger context and youll get feedback. Careful thought leads to stellar results.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your connection to others dials you into deeper parts of yourself. Youll add to your social network, either by finding people who belong in it or honing your rules and standards on interactions with people who dont.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Spin your thinking to your own benefit. When you focus on what you have in the spirit of love, celebration and enjoyment, you are rich. When you give a holistic look at what you lack, you are free. Every gift comes with responsibility.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). For you, its easy to find beauty because you go by what you like. You cant use the same method for truth. Truth doesnt require you to like it, it remains the same regardless of public opinion. Today youll seek and know it.

TODAYS BIRTHDAY (April 12). Youll find the lucrative side of your talents. Youll leave holes in your schedule for your creativity to pool inside, then make things worthy of celebration. Those celebrations will lead to more findings, creations and celebrations. More highlights: You advance your work through fearless authenticity. Youll experience a love that blossoms in unexpected ways. Libra and Gemini adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 15, 20, 1, 18 and 42.

Holiday Mathis debut novel, How To Fail Epically in Hollywood, is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and ebook. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM
Lesa Buttillo, the Bethlehem Area School Districts most-tenured school bus driver, remembers the old five-speed manual transmissions she started out on in 2003 and drove for nine and a half years before more automatics came onboard.

She once counted pushing that clutch in 1,000 times on her morning route alone. The seats didnt adjust, so shed wedge War and Peace behind her back. There was no navigation software  shed glance down at maps torn from the Yellow Pages.

You would drive to the yard in the morning, and it looked like a mushroom cloud that would come up out of the yard, Buttillo said of the air pollution from the buses. And that was the carbon burning inefficiently through the old diesel engines.  You could taste the taste of diesel in your mouth because it was that thick in the yard.

The school district on Friday rolled out its two newest buses that dont combust any fossil fuels  theyre electric. Each Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley all-electric bus comes with 400-volt motors generating 221 horsepower and a maximum range of 138 miles.

Lesa Buttillo, the Bethlehem Area School District's most-tenured school bus driver, speaks alongside Superintendent Jack Silva at an event Friday, April 12, 2024, hosted by East Hills Middle School to unveil the district's two new electric buses.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Officials described the new additions as a pilot initiative that will hopefully lead to more electric buses, which ride quietly and help clear the air for students, drivers, school staff and bus depot neighbors.

Only about 1% of the nations school bus fleets are electric, with projections from the American School Bus Council that an additional 10,000 will hit the road by 2026, according to Jenny Casebolt-Robinson, the Bethlehem Areas transportation general manager.

It is with great pride that we announce the BASD is now a member of that growing movement, she said at an unveiling of the new models.

State Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Lehigh/Northampton, secured a $1 million grant for Bethlehems electric school bus initiative from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. That covered the buses, InCharge 60-kilowatt All-in-One DC Fast Charger station and driver training, according to Mark Stein, district chief facilities and operations officer. PPL Electric Utilities extended the new electrical service needed for the charger at no cost to the district, according to Stein.

Its part of a commitment to sustainability districtwide that also includes 1.6 megawatts of solar power and energy conservation efforts that have saved taxpayers around $20 million over 13 years, Stein said.

Today we are celebrating the next chapter in our sustainability journey, and that is the unveiling of our two new electric buses, he said.

One of two Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 "Jouley" all-electric buses is connected Friday, April 12, 2024, to the InCharge 60-kilowatt All-in-One DC Fast Charger charging station installed in the Bethlehem Area School District's transportation yard adjacent to East Hills Middle School in Bethlehem.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Bethlehem has around 120 buses in its fleet that, save for the newest ones, burn diesel or gasoline, according to Stein. Electric buses cost more up front, about $380,000 compared to $130,000 for one that burns fossil fuels, he said; the cost to fully charge a bus is about a half to two-thirds the expense of a fill-up with fuel. The Jouley buses have regenerative braking that powers up the battery in stop-and-go travel, and the district anticipates a lifespan for the electric buses of 10 years or more  comparable to an internal combustion engine bus, according to Stein.

The Bethlehem Area School District is proud to lean forward and bring electric buses to the BASD community, district Superintendent Jack Silva said in a statement on Fridays rollout at East Hills Middle School, next to the transportation yard. The new buses will allow us to reduce our impact on the community and provide our students with a safer, healthier ride to school. We are extremely grateful for Senator Lisa Boscolas support and the generous grant which allowed us to begin electrifying our fleet.

Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolods at Fridays unveiling applauded the school district for the commitment, passion and team to make the electric buses a reality. Its the kind of advancement that supports the citys Climate Action Plan, he said.

The school district is filled with people that actually get things done, and this is an example of that, he said.

PPL Electric Utilities President Christine Martin also attended the event, stating: PPL Electric Utilities was thrilled to partner with the Bethlehem Area School district to help make its electric school bus transportation plans a reality. Our investments to build a strong, flexible and modern grid are critical to meet the growth in electrification and distributed energy resources. Collaboration with the school district on this project is a prime example of how together we can drive forward an affordable clean energy transition for our customers and the communities we serve.

The interior is seen on one of two Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 "Jouley" all-electric buses Friday, April 12, 2024, in the Bethlehem Area School District's transportation yard adjacent to East Hills Middle School in Bethlehem.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

One of two Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 "Jouley" all-electric buses is charged and ready to roll Friday, April 12, 2024, in the Bethlehem Area School District's transportation yard adjacent to East Hills Middle School in Bethlehem.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

State Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Lehigh/Northampton, speaks at the unveiling of two new electric buses for the Bethlehem Area School District, on Friday, April 12, 2024, at East Hills Middle School.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Orders are up! and up! and up! and show no sign of coming down at Brothers Tacos in Phillipsburg.

The Mexican restaurant opened in March to absolutely zero fanfare or spectacle, but residents, hungry for something new, didnt wait for an announcement. And neither did I.

A glowing neon sign that read open when I was running on empty was all that was needed for customers to start forming lines  one day before the restaurant even opened. And its been like since, said brothers and co-owners Marvin and Wilson Gomez.

Business has been amazing, Marvin said through a mile wide grin on April 10. Its quiet now, but just wait and see in 30 minutes.

Ten minutes later three new online orders from DoorDash and two in-person orders were being called to prep; and Marvin, a former line cook at Tacos y Tequila in Palmer Township, was back on line spooning, mashing, flipping, sauteing and directing his staff until all orders were met.

I love it, he said, obviously, in his element.

Wilson, 25, was working as a restaurant server in Virginia before his brother came to him with the idea to go into business on their own, he said.

Im so happy we did, he said. Before it was only a wish. It was his idea, and we came together to make it real.

This business is helping him to support his wife and young child.

Former cook at Tacos y Tequila Marvin Gomez (left) and his brother Wilson Gomez (right) opened their own Mexican restaurant called Brothers Tacos in Phillipsburg in MarchGlenn Epps

Customer after customer stumbled into the tiny taqueria at the corner of Heckman and Wilson Streets through the afternoon and into the evening, Marvin said. Their arrivals turned what was intended to be a standard training day for the line cooks and servers into the real deal.

I wasnt going to turn them away so we opened, Marvin said.

Bill Benz, president of the Phillipsburg Downtown Association, said hes visited the restaurant at least once a week since happening upon the shop before its official opening date.

Its not everyday that you get authentic and fresh Mexican food, Benz said.

A young man who goes by the name Cisco said hes been waiting excitedly for Brothers Tacos to open, and when it finally did, I came as soon as I could, he said. As did most of the residents who live around the restaurant.

Its very very good... and fresh, said a couple who live across from Brothers Tacos. Could be spicier, but we love spice.

The food was very good, said their neighbor. Its amazing to see what theyve done with the place. It looks so different. There is a language barrier sometimes, but its minimal, she said.

Brothers Tacos is located in the former location of Little Phillys steak shop, and the A-Treat market before that. Residents in the area said both operations did little to draw customers in, including where renovations were concerned.

Brothers Tacos is the second Mexican restaurant to open on Heckman Street this year. Five Brothers Taqueria, a Chester, NJ-based franchise, opened at 21 Heckman St. in January. A person who answered the phone on behalf of the owner on April 10 did not speak at length about the restaurant.

We dont need the advertising, the person told lehighvalleylive.com. The restaurant has other locations in Hackettstown and Washington Township.

Brothers Tacos at 105 Heckman St. offers a variety of freshly-prepared Mexican entrees, appetizers and tacos. The restaurant is open daily and offers special deals on Tuesdays when tacos are only $2.The menu includes Birria tacos, fresh salsa, horchata, made-to-order guacamole, about a dozen large entree options and a kids menu, all under $20.

Every order is prepared within customer eyesight.

Glenn Epps can be reached at gepps@lehighvalleylive.com or glenn_epps_on X (formerly known as Twitter.com), Facebook and Threads.

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By Randy Santucci and Dan Davila

The Pennsylvania Game Commission comes under scrutiny for many decisions. The simple truth is, this board of commissioners are unpaid political appointees devoting their time to managing hunting and wildlife resources. The decisions they make can be thankless, and not without scrutiny by all parties. Certainly, some of their decisions are right, some arguable, and yes, some wrong.

But like most things, you hear little when things go right, and a lot when things go wrong. They have had recent questionable expenditures, and hired and later fired a lobbying firm due to legislative scrutiny.

The agency certainly does good in many instances, but they seem to circle their wagons when controversy arises with a them vs us culture, and that must end. A controversial topic requires input from outside the agency, and it is never too late for post-assessment of a decision to determine its success or failure.

One of one of those failed decisions, was changing the Monday rifle deer opener in 2019. There is a documentary available on YouTube that explores this particular decision.

Arbitrarily moving the deer opener from the Monday after Thanksgiving, two days earlier to the Saturday after Thanksgiving, has not proven beneficial over the last five years. That weekend can be deeply personal for many hunters, as it impacts their favorite hunting weekend with family and friends.

The first problem is called Thanksgiving! What happens the day after Thanksgiving? Family home visiting? Resting from Thanksgiving travel or activities? Shopping on that Black Friday? The Saturday opener has major negative family impacts baked in, due to the proximity of the Thanksgiving holiday. Hunters now have only one day between the most travelled family holiday of the year, and Pennsylvanias biggest deer hunting season opening day of the year. Nine-and-a-half hours of daylight between Thanksgiving dinner with family, and being in the woods Saturday morning just doesnt cut it.

Many hunters travel hours, which consumes additional Friday time, creating more of a rush for final scouting and preparations. Businesses, restaurants and a variety of stores that hunters previously patronized along travel routes when the Monday opener existed, were hurt. One of their biggest annual retail sales weekends disappeared.

Non-profits and first responders suffered. Many held fundraising events in their little towns bulging full of hunters that weekend. Not all but enough.

This social change by the PGC had nothing to do with deer management or biology. It has been such a mistake. Additionally, bipartisan legislation is sponsored in the Pennsylvania House and Senate to return the opener to Monday. Currently more legislators are coming on board to reinstate the Monday opener, influenced from business and constituent contacts within their district.

Hunters are pushing to have the Monday reinstated in commissioner meetings, emails, town halls, and basically by every means possible. Spot surveys across the commonwealth continue to reveal an overwhelming majority wanting the Monday opener reinstated. Presumptive license sales benefits from the PGC have not materialized. Resident adult sales and resident junior sales continue in decline.

The many traditions lost linked to the Monday opener weekend, although mentioned here last, is possibly the most damaging aspect of all. Fellowship and family time that unfolded within that Monday opener weekend are cherished. Its now reduced to just filling a tag.

With support to return to the Monday opener continuing to grow, lets hope the PGC boards final vote on the opener issue for 2024, which is happening on April 13 for the upcoming season, brings back the Monday opener for all the reasons stated. Throw the Saturday opener in the scrap heap of failed experiments, and bring back what wasnt broken.

Randy Santucci and Dan Davila are founders of the Facebook group Pennsylvania Hunters Against the Saturday Deer Opener.
The new Independent Ireland party will have a candidate looking for votes in the Portlaoise electoral area at this year's Laois local elections.

Following on from the selection of Patsy Fennell for the Graiguecullen Portarlington district, Colette Byrne, a resident of Ballinakill, has stepped forward to contest for one of the seven seats on offer to represent the Portlaoise Municipal District on Laois County Council.

A statement said that with a long record of community activism, online bereavement support, and local governance, Ms Byrne brings a unique blend of compassion and determination to the forefront of her campaign.

The party says she was born and raised in Laois, so her roots run deep in the local community. It adds that following a personal tragedy, she founded Widow.ie an online platform offering support to those navigating the grieving process.

Her efforts earned her widespread recognition, including a prestigious 'People of the Year Award' in 2018. Her husband Peter was tragically killed in a traffic accident in August 2008, leaving her to rear their three-year-old Kate.

"I am honoured to stand as a candidate in the Portlaoise LEA," Byrne declares. "My experiences have shaped my understanding of the needs of our community, and I am committed to being a voice for positive change."

The party says her platform encompasses a wide range of local and national issues. It's claimed that she advocates for affordable housing, support for local businesses, and the well-being of families and youth in the area.

The party also says she is a staunch advocate for accountability and transparency in governance, aligning closely with the values of Independent Ireland.

Michael Fitzmaurice TD of Independent Ireland expressed his admiration.

"Colette Byrne's dedication to her community and her tireless advocacy for those in need make her an exceptional candidate for Independent Ireland. When we met, I was struck by Colettes authenticity and desire to make a positive impact in her community, with Colette by our side, we are confident in our ability to bring about meaningful change," he said.

With Independent Ireland as her platform, the party says she vows to be a relentless advocate for Ballinakill, Co. Laois, and its surrounding areas. It says she invites her fellow residents to join her in shaping a brighter future for their community, one built on compassion, integrity, and genuine progress.

Ms Byrne is contesting a district dominated by Portlaoise town. Five of the seven sitting councillors are based in the urban. The district also includes Abbeyleix, Ballyroan and the Rock. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: Independent Ireland local election candidate for the Graiguecullen Portarlington area Patsy Fennell with Michael Fitzmaurice TD member of the Independent Ireland party and supporters at The Corner Shop, Timahoe. Picture: Alf Harvey.

The Independent Ireland party also running Kieran Mullooly in the Midlands North West constituency.
Laois men leading the IFA nationally have demanded that the new Taoiseach Simon Harris back up his words of promise to support tillage farmers in 'crisis and facing disaster' with action.

Ballinakill man and IFA President Francie Gorman said the delivery of the Tillage Survival Scheme put forward by IFA is a litmus test for Mr Harris.

The package put forward calls on the Government to allocate 67 million to save growers in Laois and around Ireland in 2024 and expand the sector over the next five years.

Tillage farmers have faced a perfect storm since summer 2023, with falling grain prices; input costs remaining high; loss of rented land; and near incessant rainfall in the period since.

The new Taoiseach has pledged to support the sector, but we need to see his words backed by action. There is no question that our tillage sector is fighting for its very future. The Government says it wants to have more tillage production and this will only happen if they step up and support growers, he said.

Our Grain chair Kieran McEvoy was on @RTENewsAtOne earlier discussing the weather conditions and our proposal to secure the future of tillage farming. Listen back https://t.co/jjpIaiixiw  Irish Farmers' Association (@IFAmedia) April 10, 2024

The IFA says it has presented its Tillage Survival Scheme to the Department of Agriculture and Mr Gorman added that he would be seeking a meeting with the Taoiseach and the tillage sector would be one of the priorities.

IFA National Grain Chairman and Laios farmer Kieran McEvoy said in light of the difficulties being experienced in the tillage sector, IFA has proposed a 250/ha, five-year payment for tillage farmers.

He said it is essential this funding is secured in 2024 to prevent a decimation of the national tillage area. In an interview with RTE he said Laois was hit as badly as any other county.

"No part of the country has got a break," he said.

He said the problems in the tillage sector predate the bad weather but the conditions have highlighted the "crisis on tillage farms". He outlined what was needed.

"We are looking for a package of 67 million to support tillage farms," he said.

Mr McEvoy said this would ensure 'survival' for 20024 and support a five-year to keep tillage farmers in business and support the sector. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Laois IFA protest at County Hall in Portlaoise led by IFA President Francie Gorman.

Mr McEvoy said crops could still be sowed but the viability of doing so is in question. He said it was too late to grow in the southern half of the country.

"There are going to be huge tillage losses incurred on tillage farms this year after a bad harvest of 2023. The financial impacts are going to be a disaster for tillage farmers," he said.

While he acknowledged the figure of 67 million was large, he said it is the minimum amount of support needed if the Government is serious about having a tillage sector in Ireland.

If not delivered, he said the Government would not be able to reach its climate action targets in agriculture via tillage farming.
A special tribute was paid to Joe Drennan at a journalism awards ceremony in the Mansion House in Dublin on Wednesday, April 10.

The former fourth year University of Limerick journalism student from Knocknagad, Camross, Mountrath died in a hit and run in Limerick on October 13, 2023. He had been the Editor-in-Chief of the Universitys newspaper, Limerick Voice at the time.

There was a standing ovation at the awards in the Mansion House after it was announced that from next year, the Journalism Relating to Road Safety Award would be renamed The Joe Drennan Award for Journalism Relating to Road Safety.

University of Limerick journalism students scooped three awards at the National Student Media Awards.

For the second time Limerick Voice, produced by the final year journalism class, was named Newspaper of the Year 2024 and also won the award for Layout and Design of the Year 2024. The win was dedicated to Joe Drennan.

Digital Editor, Joe Costigan, spoke about the teams Newspaper of the Year win.

We said before we even started working on the newspaper that we would dedicate it to Joe, so to have it recognised nationally at an awards ceremony that meant so much to him is incredible. Its hard to explain how special it felt, it genuinely means the world to everyone on the team, he said.

Limerick Voice investigative reporter Gemma Good also won the prize for Journalism Relating to Health for her feature on Limerick Treaty Suicide Prevention.

The National Student Media Awards (The SMEDIAS) is the largest competition of its kind in Ireland dedicated to recognising and celebrating the next generation of media talent.

Presenting the award for Newspaper of the Year to the Limerick Voice team, Mark Hennessy, Ireland and Britain Editor of The Irish Times, commended the journalism students for their determined efforts to report the community around them.

Associate Professor and Course Director of the BA Journalism and Digital Communication programme, Dr Kathryn Hayes expressed delight at the event.

I couldnt be prouder of our journalism students. To be so successful at The SMEDIAS after such a hard year is a tribute to their resilience. Their work on Limerick Voice shows their ability to work through extremely difficult circumstances to produce award-winning journalism. Joe Drennan would be so proud. The past few months have been full of teaching moments. I look forward to seeing our students make major contributions to Irish journalism in the years ahead.

We are extremely proud of all of our students who were nominated for awards in highly competitive categories at this years SMEDIAS. This is well deserved industry recognition of the excellent work our students have been producing across multimedia news platforms, which is an integral part of journalism education in UL.

Pictured above: The Limerick Voice news team.

Managing Editor of Limerick Voice, Molly Cantwell added: I am so grateful to The Smedias, Oxygen, and The Irish Times for the honour of winning Newspaper of the Year alongside our Layout and Design win. In a year that has been so horrendously difficult, having such an important project recognised on a platform of this size means the world to the entire team.

In September 2023, Joe Drennan and I started out as co-editors of Limerick Voice, excitedly planning what the year would look like. Ultimately, our main goal was to give a voice to the voiceless in our community, and to take home this highly-coveted award. I know he would be so incredibly proud of the team and of the newspaper.

Thank you so much to our wonderful lecturer Dr Kathryn Hayes for the work and support over the last year that led us to this point. Thank you to the beautiful Drennan family and friends of the family for their tireless support of our work. Thank you Joe for the ever present reminder to work to the best of our abilities and represent what you stood for. We miss you so much.
A family has organised a fundraiser after their dad, who worked as a surgeon, lost his battle with cancer.

Fadhil Laabei dedicated his life to science and research, while saving lives as an exceptional consultant surgeon.

To honour his memory, his wife and children will embark on a journey, from Kildare to Mayo, hoping to also raise cancer awareness.

With our Dads recent passing, as a family we are finding strength in the memory of an incredible man, Fadhil Laabei, a devoted Husband, Dad, Grandad, Brother, Son, Uncle, Friend and Doctor, who fought bravely against small cell lung cancer. The loss of such an amazing and generous man has left a void in our lives but his legacy of love and resilience continues to guide us, said the family on GoFundMe.

His wife Bernadette and his children, Senad, Miriam, Eamon, Maisem and Janeen will travel from Naas to Croagh Patrick in Co Mayo.

Amidst the lush greenery of County Kildare, the three lads will pedal 250 km from the family home in Naas, across the Irish countryside, bound for Croagh Patrick in County Mayo. When we reach Croagh Patrick, Mom, Miriam, and Janeen will join us for the climb.

Mayo is not just a destination for us, its a place deeply rooted in our family's history and our mother's hometown. Together, we will ascend the mountain, with the memories of Dad's unwavering resolve etched in our hearts and minds. It will be a bittersweet moment, but we hope to find solace in knowing that our efforts may bring comfort to those facing similar battles, they explained.

The fundraiser is a tribute to their dad, Fadhil, who was dedicated to science and research while saving lives as an consultant surgeon.

The funds raised will go to the Trinity St James Cancer Institute.

Specifically, we aim to fund a Cancer Research Stimulus (CREST) Award which would enable a short-term (up to 12 months) innovative research project ring-fenced to small cell lung cancer and would be named in honour of our Dad. The value of each award is 10,000-12,000 and therefore our target. Your donations and support will make this happen, they said.

The family said they know of the tool of small cell lung cancer.

With each kilometre, we carry his spirit forward, our hearts heavy yet buoyed by the hope of helping others. With every pedal and every step, we shine a light on the importance of cancer research, carrying forward our Dad's legacy, love and resilience.

You can donate to the fundraiser here.
The value of farmland in County Kildare continues to rise - with some parcels selling for 20,000 an acre.

The average price of an acre in 2023 was 17,592 - an increase of more than 5.5% or 941 over the previous year.

This means farming land in the county is the most expensive in Ireland - apart from Dublin where an acre will set you back38,023.

Carlow (17,109 per acre) is the next most expensive. Louth followed in at 16,799.

At the other end of the scale the lowest prices were in Mayo 6,284, Leitrim 6,879, Sligo 8,329 and Roscommon 8,519.

According to the Irish Farmers Journal Agricultural Land Price Report, the average price for an acre was 11,295 or 2.9% less than the previous year.

Overall, land sales fell and the total acreage sold last year was 4,562 acres less than in 2022.

Most of the land that went under the hammer is in Mayo followed by Kerry, Cork, Galway and Westmeath, with Kildare occupying a mid-table position.

Most counties saw the value of land rise but the exceptions were Mayo, Monaghan, Sligo, Roscommon, Offaly, Donegal, Wicklow, Kerry and Meath.

According to the report the market in Kildare was firm and supply was tight.

Prices have been on an upward trend in Kildare for several years (and) this tends to be highest in the north and centre of the county.

The report commented that good land close to towns like Maynooth, Naas or Newbridge can comfortably make 20,000 an acre.

It added: Strong prices are also being paid at hotspots such as The Curragh and for the excellent quality land around Athy.
A 12-year-old podcaster and DJ from County Kildare will interview a band as part of an upcoming RTE series, 'An Ghig Mhor.'

For one episode, Logan Kelly, who hails from Clane, will feature and will interview COOLBOY, a band who hail from Portlaoise, who are being mentored by the artist Siomha.

Logan is due to interview Coolboy today, and their 'Ghig Mhor' will be on the April 26, 2024.

Speaking ahead of the interview, Logan told the Leinster Leader: "I can't wait for 'An Ghig Mhor', with such cool bands taking part like COOLBOY, who have such a great guitar tone."

"It makes me excited about the future of Irish music!" he added.

The interview with Coolboy is also a career highlight for Logan, as it marks his 50th interview.

FURTHER INFORMATION

'An Ghig Mhor' is a brand new series which will air on RTE One in Autumn 2024.

Each episode follows a different young up-and-coming band as they plan and organize their first big gig in their hometown.

They get help along the way from a mentor (famous Irish Musician) who guides them along on their journey.

Logan's podcast can be viewed on https://logansoundsoff.com/.

Ticket's for COOLBOY's gig can be purchased here.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly officially opened the Swan Ward in Naas General Hospital today, Friday, April 12th.

There was capital funding of 6.5M allocated to this development to provide for 12 additional single rooms for improved patient care and privacy. This development was highlighted as part of the Governments additional provision of beds in 2023 and is a highly anticipated project for the Hospital and Kildare County.

In addition to this important development, the Hospital is also progressing with plans to develop a new 11-bed Acute Medical Assessment Unit, a 15-bed Admissions Unit and have a bed replacement plan in place identifying opportunities to replace current infrastructural challenging areas for improved patient care and access.

On the official opening of the new unit, Kieran McDonald, General Manager commented: We are delighted to welcome Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly T.D. to Naas today. We appreciate the support and investment in the Hospital for the people of Kildare and its surrounds. The opening of the Swan Ward is one of a series of developments that we have planned for the Hospital as we are striving to improve patient experience, patient flow and integration with our community partners and for improved quality of care for our patients.

Speaking at the opening of the ward, Minister Donnelly said: I was delighted to meet with management and staff at Naas General Hospital today and officially open the new Swan Ward and see first-hand the government investment being delivered in our Hospitals. This new infrastructure provides Naas General Hospital with 12 extra beds to more appropriately manage patients and provide single room accommodation for those requiring isolation and therefore limiting the spread of infection, protecting the most vulnerable patients.

Kate Killeen White, Regional Executive Officer of the HSE Dublin and Midlands added: I'm pleased to be here at Naas General Hospital today, meeting the staff and sitting down with the management team to discuss the plans for upcoming developments in the Hospital. I look forward to working together to focus on enhancing patient care, upgrading facilities, and creating a better environment for both staff and visitors."
The driver of a lorry tractor unit who collided with a cyclist causing his death was blinded by sunlight, Naas Circuit Court was told today.

Douglas Ryder, 28, whose address was given as The Haven, Gilltown, Donadea, has admitted careless driving causing death at Firmount East on August 20, 2022.

The accident resulted in the death of Naas resident Michael Fleming, who lived in the town for more than 30 years.

The court heard that Mr Fleming, aged 63, set out for a cycle early that day from his home and the accident occurred soon after 8am.

The defendant was driving a lorry tractor unit and was going in the same direction as the cyclist, near Clane.

Michael Fleming

Mr Fleming, the court heard, was struck from behind and the accident took place between Firmount Cross and Millicent Cross.

Detective Garda Christine Brady said the defendant is a truck driver and the accident occurred at 8.13 when the truck collided with the rear wheel of Mr Flemings racing bike, a Trek model which is used in events like the Tour De France. The back wheel came off the bike.

Det Gda Brady said an analysis of the lorrys tachograph indicated it was travelling at 91 km/h for at least a minute and there was a breach of the rule governing rest periods for drivers.

Det Gda Brady told prosecuting barrister Seoirse O Dunlaing that Mr Fleming was knocked into a ditch. Weather conditions were bright and dry.

The defendant stopped as did some other people and two gardai, Niall OToole and Kevin OSullivan rendered first aid before paramedics and a doctor, who was working voluntarily, arrived at the scene. Mr Fleming was pronounced dead.

The court heard that both the Volvo vehicle and the bicycle were in good condition.

Mr Fleming died from multiple traumatic injuries and the road had an 80 km/h speed limit.

Three calls were made to the emergency services including one by the defendant and another by his father.

A person at the scene said the defendant indicated he had hit a cyclist and the sun was in his eyes.

Ann Fleming addressed the court to thank all who had assisted at the scene and since the accident and she said the gardai were a constant source of support.

Ms Fleming described Michael or Mick or Mike as he was also known, as her soulmate and the accident occurred 22 days shy of their 30th wedding anniversary.

Two of their children were abroad at the time and our lives were changed and grief engulfed us.

The case was adjourned.
Social Democrats' MEP Candidate for the Midlands North-West region, Rory Hearne, is to hold the next public meeting of his campaign in Carrick-on-Shannon next week.

The public meeting, themed Solving the Housing Crisis and a Fairer Ireland, will discuss solutions to housing and homelessness and focus on the role the EU can play in achieving a healthy housing sector in Ireland.

A housing expert and well-renowned housing activist, Rory will discuss how the housing crisis unfolds in Leitrim and what can be done.

Alongside housing, Rorys campaign for Europe will focus on making the economy work for our wellbeing, ending child poverty, the need for a fair transition in climate policy, pushing for stronger workers rights, and, most notably, calling on the EU to sanction Israel over the genocide it is committing on the people of Gaza, all of which will be discussed at the public meeting.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Rory said: I am delighted to be in Leitrim to speak at this public meeting and knock on doors alongside the excellent local Social Democrats candidate, Lola Gonzales-Farrell.

Leitrim, like every county in Ireland, is experiencing a housing crisis. If we look at housing needs, there are 557 households in need of social housing on waiting lists or HAP, yet the number of social housing homes built in Leitrim was just 28 units in 2023, and that was a reduction on the number delivered in 2022 when 32 units were built.

At that rate of social housing delivery, it will take 20 years to house all those currently in need of social housing in Leitrim. That is absolutely unacceptable.

Rory says that renters in Leitrim have seen rents increase by 116 per cent since 2012, but at the time, wages increased by just 27 per cent.

Since Housing For All, the Governments landmark housing plan, rents have increased by 17 percent in Leitrim  yet rents are supposed to be only increasing by 2 percent per year. Rents have increased way beyond rent caps, and that is in part, because Leitrim is not covered by Rent Pressure Zones rent regulations, but also because of the lack of enforcement of rent regulations," he added.

Leitrim has 3,195 adults living in the parental home and 2,807 vacant homes. Rory adds that there are real solutions to this housing crisis, like using the vacant and derelict buildings.

Joining Rory on the night of the discussion will be Social Democrats Councillor for Carrick-on-Shannon, Lola Gonzales-Farrell.

Speaking about the meeting, Lola said: "We are delighted to be hosting Rory for a very informative session about how we can create a safer, fairer society. With his deep expertise in social policy, particularly in housing - having written books on the subject - Rory will lead the conversation as we explore the latest research and insights, and how this can benefit Leitrim's rural and urban areas."

For all who wish to attend to meet the candidates and join in this important discussion, the meeting will take place at 7.30pm, on Monday, April 15, at St. Georges Heritage and Visitor Centre, Carrick-on-Shannon.
Rio Tinto spends more than A$16.1 billion with suppliers in Australia





Rio Tinto increased its spend with suppliers and local businesses in Australia to more than A$16.1 billion in 2023, as part of the company's ongoing commitment to support communities where it operates.

This was an increase of 5 per cent on the previous year and was spent with more than 5,800 businesses, including Australian owned and operated businesses and locally owned and managed branches of global companies. The spend helped support tens of thousands of Australian jobs and delivered a significant economic contribution to communities across the country.

As part of this spend, more than A$727 million was spent with 168 Indigenous businesses across Australia ? an increase of 29 per cent on the year before.

There was also a 25.5 per cent increase in spending with local businesses across Australia to A$1.2 billion dollars.

Rio Tinto Chief Executive, Australia, Kellie Parker said, "For Rio Tinto to have a long-term future, we need the communities where we operate to be successful and prosperous.

"We strive to employ locally and buy locally in Australia ? especially from Indigenous, small and regional businesses. It's about providing opportunities to help these businesses grow and, in doing so, creating new jobs and training opportunities for many Australians, helping to support the nation's economy.

"We're proud to have increased our spend with Australian Indigenous businesses by 29 per cent to A$727 million in 2023 and with local businesses around Australia by 25% to A$1.2 billion."

11 april 2024 at 20:05

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Halle Capital-backed True Environmental Announces Acquisition of Triton Environmental, Inc.





Triton Environmental, Inc. ("Triton"), a full-service environmental consulting firm, and Triton Coastal Consultants, LLC, its subsidiary, today announced that it has joined True Environmental, Inc. ("True"), a platform focused on collaborating with founder and employee-owned environmental consulting and engineering firms to provide capital solutions to accelerate growth and facilitate seamless ownership transitions. The union further enhances True's mission of building a best-in-class platform in the environmental consulting and engineering industry.

The founder of Triton, Chris Marchesi (who will remain with True during a transition period as Triton's CEO), has expressed his enthusiasm for the company's partnership with True Environmental, stating "Today marks a significant milestone in Triton's continued evolution. The partnership is aimed at investing in Triton's talented and dedicated people, with the goal of better serving clients. True Environmental is a group that shares Triton's values, respects our culture, and is committed to supporting our clients."

Carver Glezen, Triton's new President, also expressed his excitement about the partnership. Glezen said, "The infusion of expertise and capability from True Environmental will greatly strengthen and expand Triton's service offerings and resources available to clients. By investing in its people and partnering with a group that shares its values, Triton is well-positioned to continue its evolution and better serve its clients."

"Triton has established an excellent company that focuses on engaging its employees and providing exceptional client service to both private and public sectors in the Northeast region. We are excited to collaborate with Triton's management, including Chris, Carver, Paul Simonetta, Steve Benben, and Rob MacDuff and the rest of Triton's team, to consistently deliver top-notch solutions that address their clients' intricate environmental problems," stated Jim Stamatis, the CEO of True Environmental.

"We are excited to announce our partnership with the Triton team, which complements and enhances True Environmental's capabilities in serving clients. We are fortunate to have a highly experienced management team at True who will be valuable partners in helping the Triton team achieve its long-term goals," said Jay Abramson, Senior Partner at Halle Capital.

About Halle Capital

Halle Capital is a lower-middle market, growth-oriented private equity firm based in New York. Halle leverages the experience and network of its professionals to pursue investment opportunities in healthcare services and business/consumer services. The firm partners with experienced management teams to build businesses in highly fragmented markets with durable secular tailwinds.

About True Environmental

True Environmental ("True"), backed by Halle Capital, is a platform focused on building a consulting and engineering organization for environmental end markets. True Environmental is led by Jim Stamatis, former CEO of Louis Berger and 30+ year industry veteran. True seeks to partner with founder and employee-owned consulting and engineering firms, providing capital solutions to accelerate growth and liquidity events for ownership transition.

About Triton Environmental

Founded in 1996, Triton Environmental provides environmental consulting and engineering services to a diverse client base that includes Fortune 500 companies as well as government, commercial, and industrial clients. Triton is a multidisciplinary organization that provides a diverse range of services to its clients. The company's wide range of expertise enables them to deliver high-quality services that meet the unique needs of each client.

12 april 2024 at 08:10

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Toronto Pearson Announces Industry Forum, Preparing for a New Era of Investment in Canada's Largest Airport





TORONTO, April 12, 2024 /CNW/ - The Greater Toronto Airports Authority ("GTAA") today initiated discussions with design and construction companies on Pearson LIFT - Long term Investment in Facilities and Terminals (LIFT), on the procurement, planning and vision of the program. LIFT is a capital plan spanning more than a decade, investing billions of dollars into Toronto Pearson's facility through several construction programs aimed at preparing Canada's largest airport for the challenges and opportunities of the coming years and beyond.

Toronto Pearson executives will launch today the first phase of a procurement process at an industry forum for 700 participants from design, construction, and technology industry companies. Toronto Pearson has been meeting passenger needs by deploying extraordinary resources to many of its aged assets and facilities, which is not a sustainable solution with passenger traffic expected to grow to approximately 65 million annually by the early 2030s ? a figure that takes the airport beyond its 45 million passengers in 2023.

Toronto Pearson Airport is making smart investments to accommodate increasing passenger demand to meet the expectations and experiences they expect, with a focus on affordability, smart design, and sustainability.

"Through LIFT, we will deliver a world-class passenger experience, integrate smart architecture, unlock the digital potential in air travel, and advance towards a net-zero future," said Deborah Flint, President and Chief Executive Officer, GTAA. "These plans are anchored to our ambition to build an airport that will strengthen international competitiveness, leverage innovation, and advance sustainability, all which drive economic returns for Canada," she added.

The first program of LIFT will focus on modernizing airport assets, including high speed taxi lanes to improve airfield performance, modernized airfield electric lighting and control system, interim terminal facilities, and investments in power generation to advance towards net-zero targets.

"LIFT is an investment in Canada's future economic prosperity and is poised to generate billions of dollars in economic benefits. These necessary investments will strengthen the supply chain, open the door to new opportunities for Canadian businesses, and create good jobs right here in the GTA. Together, they will enable sustainable growth and competitiveness on a global scale," said Doug Allingham, Chairman of the Board, GTAA.

These enhancements will pave the way for Toronto Pearson to become one of the greenest, technologically advanced, and passenger-friendly airports in North America and globally.

GTAA_PEARSON_B roll.m4v (dropbox.com)

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This forward-looking information is based on a variety of assumptions and is subject to risks and uncertainties. These statements reflect GTAA Management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to GTAA Management. There is a risk that predictions, forecasts, conclusions, and projections that constitute forward-looking information will not prove to be accurate, that the GTAA's assumptions may not be correct and that actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking information. Additional detailed information about these assumptions, risks and uncertainties is included in the GTAA's securities regulatory filings, including its most recent Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis, which can be found on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

About Toronto Pearson

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada's largest airport and a vital connector of people, businesses, and goods.

Toronto Pearson was named "Best Airport over 40 million passengers in North America'" in 2023 by Airports Council International (ACI), the global trade representative of the world's airports, after winning the award five years running between 2017 and 2021. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2024 as one of "Canada's Best Employers" by Forbes.

For our corporate X channel, please visit @PearsonComms. For operational updates and passenger information, please visit @TorontoPearson/@AeroportPearson on X. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

SOURCE Greater Toronto Airports Authority

12 april 2024 at 08:30

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IMC Pan Asia Alliance Is Now Known as Tsao Pao Chee Group





SINGAPORE, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- IMC Pan Asia Alliance (IMCPAA) unveiled a historic rebrand as (TPC) Tsao Pao Chee Group Pte Ltd at the AT ONE International Festival in Suzhou, China today. This significant milestone, under the helm of fourth-generation steward and Chavalit Frederick Tsao, Chairman, TPC (Tsao Pao Chee) Group propels the company into an exciting new era laser-focused on impactful investments and fostering a well-being economy.

The TPC brand honours the company's original tradename, Tsao Pao Chee, which dates back about 120 years during the Qing Dynasty. It signals its evolved commitment to creating value through stewardship, collaboration, and entrepreneurship in service of life's flourishing. This rebrand echoes Chavalit's clarion vision: transforming family businesses into catalysts for positive change across societies.

"This is more than just turning the page. We need to go back to finding our own roots, our own culture, our own morality, and ethical traditions. Therefore, I decided to return to our roots and bring back the original trade name of the family business used by my great grandfather because that has always been our true brand, " Chavalit said.

The rebranding is more than just a new name and logo. It symbolises the dedication to aligning business success with the betterment of lives and communities. Under the TPC banner, the company is poised to leverage its history of innovation and strategic partnerships to drive sustainable growth. Strategic business verticals like IMC Industrial and OCTAVE will reorient toward adding value to co-create the well-being economy. TPC's investment arms have already redirected USD 320 million to invest in the impact and well-being sectors.

TPC is also transforming its approach to corporate philanthropy by incorporating it into its business culture. Three non-profit units have been established to achieve this: OCTAVE Institute, No.17 Foundation, and Restore Nature Foundation, which focuses on restoring human relationships, collaboration, and nature, respectively.

Mr Tsao Wa-Chang founded TPC in the late 1800s. Over four generations, for nearly 120 years, the company evolved from a traditional shipping company into a multinational business. Today, TPC is transforming into a purpose-driven profit business with a mission to "serve human well-being and create wealth at the same time."

Under Chavalit's stewardship, OCTAVE, which fused wisdom from Eastern practices with modern science, is created to foster individual and collective growth. Chavalit's founding of OCTAVE and involvement in various philanthropic endeavours speak to his commitment to stewarding the business as a purpose-led profit institution.

The brand's new logo melds English and Chinese characters into one holistic emblem, and the colour "Awakening Red" represents new materialism. TPC's corporate colour, emerald green, reflects TPC's deep reverence for nature as the source of life, while its crisp, flowing geometry symbolises constant evolution and the open exchange of ideas.

TPC calls on entrepreneurs, investors, economists and socially conscious leaders across the globe to join them in co-creating an economy where purpose and profit flourish in tandem. Through innovation, courage, and the radical embrace of interconnectedness, TPC is committed to driving progress where it matters most ? the flourishing of all life.

About Tsao Pao Chee Group Pte Ltd

TPC (Tsao Pao Chee) is a purpose-led-profit family business consisting of OCTAVE, IMC Industrial, and various non-profit organisations operating as one integrated system to create a well-being business ecosystem. The company's headquarters is in Singapore, with a strong presence in China, Indonesia, and Thailand. TPC employs more than 8000 people.

For more information, visit https://tsaopaochee.com/

SOURCE (TPC) Tsao Pao Chee

12 april 2024 at 09:47

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Great Pacific Gold Announces 12 Month Investor Relations Program, Engaging Gold Standard Media LLC and Affiliates





VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Great Pacific Gold Corp. ("Great Pacific Gold," "GPAC," or the "Company") (TSXV: GPAC) (OTCQX: FSXLF) (Germany: V3H) is pleased to announce an investor relations agreement with Gold Standard Media ("GSM") and its affiliates to raise awareness of the Company's shares among investors. The engagement is for 12 months of services.



In consideration of the marketing services, GPAC has agreed pay up front payments as follows: US $250,000 to GSM, US $250,000 to Future Money Trends LLC, US $250,000 to Wealth Research Group LLC and US $250,000 to Portfolio Wealth Group LLC. These funds include fees and reimbursement for advertising expenses.

GSM and its affiliates are arm's length to GPAC. Neither GSM, its affiliates or associates own any securities of the Company. GSM and its affiliates manage a marketing team headquartered in Austin, Texas, and has conducted marketing services for a broad range of companies listed on exchanges from the TSX Venture Exchange to the New York Stock Exchange since 2010. GSM, Future Money Trends LLC, Wealth Research Group LLC and Portfolio Wealth Group LLC are controlled by Kenneth Ameduri, Juliet Ameduri and Lior Gantz.

About GPAC

Great Pacific Gold has a portfolio of high-grade gold projects in Papua New Guinea ("PNG") and Australia.

In PNG, Great Pacific Gold recently acquired a significant 2,166 sq. km mineral exploration land package in PNG. The land package comprises of exploration licenses (EL) and exploration license applications (ELA). It includes both early-stage and advanced-stage exploration targets with high-grade epithermal vein and porphyry-style mineralisation present.

The Arau Project consists of two exploration licenses, located in the Kainantu region, and includes the Mt. Victor Prospect, where previous drilling found a multiple phase intrusion complex hosting copper and gold mineralisation.

The Wild Dog Project consists of one granted exploration license, EL 2761, and one exploration license application, ELA 2516, located on the island of New Britain and about 50 km southwest of Rabaul and Kokopo, PNG.

The Kesar Creek Project consists of one exploration license, EL 2711, and is contiguous with the K92 Mining Inc. tenements.

In Australia, Great Pacific Gold began with two, 100% owned, high-grade gold projects called the Lauriston and Golden Mountain Projects, and has since acquired a large area of granted and application tenements containing further epizonal (low-temperature) high-grade gold mineralisation and associated intrusion-related gold mineralization all in the state of Victoria, Australia. The Great Pacific Gold land package, assembled over a multi-year period, notably includes the Lauriston Project which is a 535 sq. km property immediately to the south of and within the same geological framework that hosts Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd's Fosterville Gold Mine and associated exploration tenements. The Golden Mountain Project is an intrusion-related gold project on the edge of the Strathbogie granite and occurs at the northern end of the Walhalla Gold Belt. The acquired projects include the epizonal gold Providence Project containing the Reedy Creek goldfield which adjoins the Southern Cross Gold's Sunday Creek exploration project and a large group of recently consolidated granted tenements called the Walhalla Gold Belt Project, which contain a variety of epizonal and intrusion related style gold mineralisation. Additionally, Great Pacific Gold has another gold-focused project called the Moormbool project which has epizonal style gold mineralisation and associated potential intrusion-related gold mineralisation, as well as the Beechworth Project occurs in the northeast of the state and contains intrusion related and mesozonal gold mineralization.

All GPAC's properties in Australia are 100% owned and have had historical gold production from hard rock sources despite limited modern exploration and drilling.

On behalf of GPAC

Bryan Slusarchuk

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Great Pacific Gold cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Great Pacific Gold's limited operating history, its exploration and development activities on its mineral properties and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Great Pacific Gold does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

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.

For further information: Adam Ross, Investor Relations, Direct: (604) 229-9445, Toll Free: 1 (833) 923-3334, Email: [email protected]

12 april 2024 at 16:05

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RBC Global Asset Management Inc. announces March sales results for RBC Funds, RBC Private Pools, RBC Alternative Funds and PH&N Funds





TORONTO, April 12, 2024 /CNW/ - RBC Global Asset Management Inc. ("RBC GAM Inc.") today announced March net sales of $185 million for RBC Funds, RBC Private Pools, RBC Alternative Funds and PH&N Funds (collectively, the "Funds"). Long-term funds had net sales of $187 million and money market funds had net redemptions of $2 million. Mutual fund assets under management increased by 2.1 per cent.

Mutual fund sales results are based on preliminary data from the Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC) and only include Canadian prospectus qualified mutual funds.

Portfolio Holdings Disclosure

Going forward, we have determined to make the portfolio holdings of the Funds available on our website on a quarterly basis for those unitholders who are interested in this information. Generally, the Funds' portfolio holdings will be made available no earlier than 10 business days following the quarter end (certain Funds will have longer periods before posting). This disclosure is in addition to the quarterly portfolio disclosure for the top 25 holdings required to be provided within 60 days of the quarter end under applicable securities laws.

Please consult your advisor and read the prospectus or Fund Facts document before investing. There may be commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses associated with mutual fund investments. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. RBC Funds, RBC Private Pools, RBC Alternative Funds and PH&N Funds are offered by RBC GAM Inc. and distributed through authorized dealers in Canada. RBC GAM Inc. is a member of the RBC GAM group of companies and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada.

About RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 94,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada's biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.

About RBC Global Asset Management

RBC Global Asset Management (RBC GAM) is the asset management division of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and includes money managers BlueBay and Phillips, Hager & North Investment Management. RBC GAM is a provider of global investment management services and solutions to institutional, high-net-worth and individual investors through separate accounts, pooled funds, mutual funds, hedge funds, exchange-traded funds and specialty investment strategies. The RBC GAM group of companies manage approximately $575 billion in assets and have approximately 1,500 employees located across Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia.

SOURCE RBC Global Asset Management Inc.

12 april 2024 at 16:05

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Police and paramedics after the double assault that left one person dead and another seriously injured, on the banks of the Garonne River in Bordeaux, on April 9, 2024. PHILIPPE LOPEZ / AFP

At this stage, there is nothing to suggest that the incident was a terrorist attack, but it certainly amounts to more than a mere brawl. At a press conference on Thursday, April 11, the Bordeaux prosecutor, Frederique Porterie, gave a detailed update on the investigation into the previous evening's violent stabbing altercation, that killed one person and seriously injured another on the quays of the Garonne river in Bordeaux.

Shortly after 7:30 pm on Wednesday, as many Bordeaux residents were enjoying the nice weather with a drink on the lawns beside the river, a man wearing "a qamis and a keffiyeh covering his face and revealing only his eyes," approached and spoke to two men aged 26 and 37, both born in Algeria, who were sipping beers while sitting on the grass in front of the "water mirror," a shallow water feature located between the city's Bourse square and the quays.

According to the account given by the younger man, who survived the attack, the man had criticized them, "in broken French," for drinking alcohol on the day of Eid, a religious celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. The two Algerian friends, one of whom is homeless and the other living in accommodation provided by the France terre d'asile charity organisation, allegedly retorted: "It's none of your business." The assailant then punched them several times before walking away.

Four blows to the chest

According to several witnesses, the two friends got up and threw beer cans in his direction. The man then turned back, pulled out a switchblade knife and stabbed them violently. The older victim, Rachid Bouach, sustained nine stab wounds, four of which  to his chest  proved fatal. The younger victim, who was stabbed three times, was admitted to hospital. His condition is no longer life-threatening.

The assailant then headed for the Pont de Pierre bridge, where he came across a police squad who had just received his description over the radio. The officers asked him to drop his weapon; but, according to several witnesses, he then moved toward them in an "aggressive" and "threatening" manner, brandishing his weapon. After issuing "the usual warnings," one of the police officers fatally shot him three times with his assault rifle.

No identity documents were found on the assailant's body. However, according to the Eurodac database, which records the fingerprints of asylum seekers registered in European Union member states, "he was of Afghan origin and aged 25." The magistrate added that by confirming his identity, which has yet to be verified, it may be possible to find out more about his motive.

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France's Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Stephane Sejourne, at the Elysee Palace in Paris, on April 3, 2024. LUDOVIC MARIN / AFP

France on Friday, April 12, warned its citizens to "imperatively refrain from traveling in the coming days to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories," sources in the foreign minister's entourage told Agence France-Presse (AFP).

Iran has threatened reprisals against Israel over a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria on April 1 that killed seven Revolutionary Guards including two generals, sparking fears of an escalation of violence in the Middle East.

France's Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne at a crisis meeting also asked that family members of French diplomats in Iran be evacuated, and no French civil servants be sent on missions to the listed countries.

Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip since October 7. It has also stepped up strikes against Iranian personnel and allies in Syria and Lebanon. Israel has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah since the start of the latest Gaza conflict.

Read more Subscribers only Israel wants to 'expand' its campaign against Hezbollah
A man walks over the rubble left after a bomb exploded at the Argentinian Israeli Mutual Association (AMIA in Spanish) in Buenos Aires, 18 July 1994. ALI BURAFI / AFP

Over three decades after deadly attacks in Buenos Aires targeted Israel's embassy and a Jewish center, an Argentine court placed the blame on Iran on Thursday, April 11, and declared it a "terrorist state," according to local media.

The ruling, cited by press reports, said Iran had ordered the attack in 1992 on Israel's embassy and the 1994 attack on the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish center.

The court also implicated the Iran-backed Shiite movement Hezbollah and called the attack against the AMIA  the deadliest in Argentina's history  a "crime against humanity," according to court documents cited by media reports.

"Hezbollah carried out an operation that responded to a political, ideological and revolutionary design under the mandate of a government, of a State," Carlos Mahiques, one of the three judges who issued the decision, told Radio Con Vos, referencing Iran.

In 1992, a bomb attack on the Israeli embassy left 29 dead. Two years later, a truck loaded with explosives drove into the AMIA Jewish center and detonated, leaving 85 dead and 300 injured.

The 1994 assault has never been claimed or solved, but Argentina and Israel have long suspected Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah group carried it out at Iran's request. Prosecutors charged top Iranian officials with ordering the attack. Tehran has denied any involvement.

Argentina has the largest Jewish community in Latin America, with some 300,000 members. It also is home to immigrant communities from the Middle East  from Syria and Lebanon in particular.

Read more Subscribers only 'How long can this state of pre-war between Iran and Israel last?'

The judges ruled on Thursday that the AMIA attack was a crime against humanity and blamed then-president Ali Akbar Hashemi Bahramaie Rafsanjani as well as other Iranian officials and Hezbollah members.

The decision was welcomed by the president of the Delegation of Israelite Associations of Argentina (DAIA), Jorge Knoblovits. He told Radio Mitre the ruling "is very important, because it enables the victims to go to the International Criminal Court."

Former Argentine president Carlos Menem, who died in 2021 and was the president at the time of both attacks, was tried for covering up the AMIA bombing, but ultimately acquitted. His former intelligence chief Hugo Anzorreguy was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in jail for his role in obstructing the probe.

He was among some dozen defendants who faced a slew of corruption and obstruction of justice charges in the case, including the former judge who led the investigation into the attack, Juan Jose Galeano, who in 2019 was jailed for six years for concealment and violation of evidence.
Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group said it fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at Israeli artillery positions Friday, a bombardment it said was in response to Israeli strikes in the south.

Hamas ally Hezbollah has exchanged near-daily cross-border fire with the Israeli army since the Palestinian militant group attacked southern Israel on October 7 triggering war in Gaza.

Hezbollah fighters targeted "enemy artillery positions... with dozens of Katyusha rockets" the group said in a statement, adding it was "in response to the enemy's attacks on... southern villages and civilian homes."

The Israeli army said "approximately 40 launches were identified crossing from Lebanese territory, some of which were intercepted."

"No injuries were reported," it said, adding that it had earlier intercepted two Hezbollah attack drones that had crossed from Lebanon.

Lebanon's state-run National News Agency reported Israeli bombardment of several villages near the border. The violence has so far killed at least 363 people in Lebanon, mostly Hezbollah fighters but also including at least 70 civilians, according to an AFP tally. In Israel, the military says 10 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed. Tens of thousands of civilians have fled their homes on both sides of the border.
WHEELS have been put in motion to turn the former railway station in Kilmallock into a base for the South Limerick branch of the Red Cross.

There have been numerous calls and efforts to reopen the station over the decades since it closed in 1976. However, it has continued to lay idle.

Cllr PJ Carey put down a motion at the March meeting of the Cappamore-Kilmallock Municipal District that the local authority engages with Iarnrod Eireann to discuss the possibility of leasing Kilmallock Railway Station with a view to subletting to the local branch of the Red Cross following recent communication received.

In a reply to the motion, Trevor McKechnie, senior executive engineer, said the municipal district office will liaise with the property and community facilities department to determine the formal procedures required to assist in the delivery of this motion.

Limerick City and County Council will not be in a position to provide any budgetary support for any improvement works that may be required at the property. It should also be noted that costs that would be incurred in organising a lease such as legal fees etc would be borne by the Irish Red Cross, said Mr McKechnie.

Cllr Careys motion was seconded by Cathaoirleach Mike Donegan, who offered his support to Cllr Carey and the South Limerick branch of the Red Cross.

Cllr John Egan said there was previously a big meeting in Kilmallock about reopening the station. Cllr Donegan said Irish Rail told them two years ago it would have to be built on a greenfield site.

Cllr Carey said the site currently doesnt have water, sewerage or power but the Red Cross is happy to proceed.

Cllr Brigid Teefy said the South Limerick branch has been looking for a premises for ages.

READ MORE: Council to look at positive messages on riverside seats

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Carey said that last year he requested that larnrod Eireann / CIE would grant a lease of the vacant railway station in Kilmallock to be used as a base for the group.

They agreed in principle, as long as the project was promoted by Limerick City and County Council. After this, l met with the regional manager of CIE and some members of the local Red Cross who, after viewing the building, wished to proceed, aware of the large budget required to renovate, said Cllr Carey.

Now that the motion has passed, he said: Still a bit to go to bring this historic building back into use but it is all very positive.
THE company which has been awarded the contract to operate search and rescue operations for the Irish Coast Guard has announced the appointment of its new director.

Bristow Ireland Limited has confirmed that Philip Bartlett, a Shannon-based executive, will take up the role as director, Irish Search and Rescue with immediate effect.

With more than 33 years experience in Irish and British aviation, he will have overall responsibility for leading the Bristow Ireland team as they carry out missions across the country.

Last August, Bristow Ireland signed a contract with the Department of Transport for the provision of rotary and fixed-wing aviation services for the Irish Coast Guard and in early February it received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).

The search and rescue service is currently operated by another company - CHC Ireland - and its contract remains in place until July 2025.

Most recently, Mr Bartlett was chief technical officer for Shannon Technical Services, a global technical services provider for aircraft owners, lessors, and airlines which is based in Clare.

As part of the senior leadership team, he established the continuous airworthiness management organisation department for a wide range of regional, commercial, and corporate aircraft, including several helicopter types.

READ MORE: Energy savings on the grid at Limerick roadshow

Prior to that, he was a technical operations manager for Nordic Aviation Capital, where he gained a perspective on the regional aircraft leasing business, including managing aircraft deliveries and returns, to and from various international airlines.

Mr Bartlett said: I look forward to joining the Bristow Ireland team as we transition to this new contract and establish the next generation of search and rescue operations on behalf of the Irish Coast Guard.

Neil Ebberson, Bristow Irelands director of government services, added: Philip brings significant experience of the Irish aviation industry to Bristow Ireland.
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SWEETEST memories are all that is left of a brave young son. One of the best.

This is the inscription on the tombstone of Adare man Harry Wilson in the Rheinberg War Cemetery, Germany.

Exactly 80 years ago this Thursday, April 11, the aircraft that Sergeant Wilson, an air gunner, was in was hit by flak at 13,000 feet over Aachen and crashed during World War II.

Three years earlier in 1941, Mr Wilson became Adares first winner of an All-Ireland hurling medal after playing in goals for the victorious Limerick Junior team v Galway on September 21, 1941.

The late Tom Healy, of Adare, had started to organise a commemorative plaque for Mr Wilson. His wishes were carried out by his son, also Tom, at the weekend.

The plaque unveiling at Garveys Centra, the old Wilson abode, was the culmination of a number of events.

Pictured above are Tom Healy Jr and Noeline Murtagh with James Cavanagh, Harry Langford, Michael Brennan, Jack Kenna, James Daly, Donnacha and Finn Murtagh, at the plaque unveiling ceremony in honour of Harry Wilson, Adare's inaugural All-Ireland medal recipient in 1941.

The events included a talk by Professor Diarmaid Ferriter and guests, a walking tour of Adare, underage and legends GAA matches and a chance to meet Adare hurlers who have won medals in all grades for Limerick.

Mr Healy Jr reflected on the weekend on his return to Portugal where he resides and organised the events from, with the help of many others.

I am in awe of the goodwill of Irish people. It is incredible to think that a simple guy in Portugal, with a computer and a phone, can attract the top historian in the country to perform at his talk. That the curator at Limericks main museum came to share his knowledge. That a former leader of a RAF squadron came to relate his expertise.

That a Limerick GAA historian reminded us of our heritage. And that Limericks leading GAA media figure was on hand to be MC to unite us all speaks volumes for the people of our country.

But of course, the goodwill of family, friends and the Adare community created the magic. They helped out with the venues, the logistics and the spreading of the word so everyone and anyone could be there. A huge credit to them, said Mr Healy Jr.

As an organiser of an event like this, he said you normally have all the concerns and worries about it going as well as possible and avoiding blunders.

"I have to say that Diarmaid Ferriter made a huge first impression on me when we spoke prior to the event. He absolutely loves what he does. My mindset shifted. Not only was I organising the event, I was also there to enjoy it. And I enjoyed every minute of it. And I enjoyed looking at the faces in the audience and seeing them enjoying it. If I had been overly concerned about trying to make everything perfect, I might have missed out on the event myself," said Mr Healy Jr.

It was a tremendous occasion for the community to be together for a good reason, he said.

"The support my family got at dads funeral was incredible, but my interaction with most people there was a short handshake and a kind word. This event was a coming together to celebrate. It was lovely to see people chat, laugh and hug. And one other thing, the mobile phone stayed in the pockets and bags throughout the weekend, because people interacted as they did in the old days.

"The effort people made to be there was also extraordinary. They came from all around the country, and abroad, to share in the experience. It was so special to me that my midfield partner when we won our first County Senior Hurling title (v Patrickswell in 2001), Jack Foley, came especially from Madrid to be there. It demonstrates the bond that the GAA creates and it is something to be cherished," said Mr Healy Jr.

He said a massive amount of information about Adare GAA was unearthed and he would love to see a group of people get together to create a book on the history of Adare GAA as a legacy to future generations.

Mr Healy Jr would wholeheartedly encourage other clubs to celebrate their GAA heritage with similar events.

"I hear lots of comments about grassroots in the GAA. This is grassroots at its core. But it does need volunteers and time and effort to make it work. If clubs do take this initiative on, I guarantee them that they will not regret it," he concluded.
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A MAN ENGAGING in a sexual act with an infant and uploading videos and images of the child abuse has particularly gross aspects and is very, very disturbing, a court has heard.

The mother of the baby boy, who had just turned one-year-old, told reporters after the evidence was heard on Thursday afternoon (yesterday) that the perpetrator is a horrible, disgusting, creepy human. The judge is due to give his verdict this Friday.

The accused man, aged in his 30s who is from Limerick, pleaded guilty to five charges - engaging in a sexual act with a child under the age of 15, possession of child pornography, knowingly distributing child pornography, knowingly producing child pornography and use of information and communication technology to facilitate sexual exploitation of child.

Prosecuting barrister John OSullivan, instructed by State solicitor Padraig Mawe, outlined the evidence with the assistance of Detective Garda John ONeill.

Mr OSullivan said there are particularly gross aspects of the case. Judge Tom ODonnell made an order that the case at Limerick Circuit Court be heard in camera and that nobody be identified at the moment.

Mr OSullivan said that in early 2021,The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in America contacted the Garda Online Child Exploitation Unit over images and videos uploaded to Kik, an instant messaging mobile app. Kik had contacted the NCMEC in relation to a username entitled honda22civic.

They were of an adult with an Irish accent holding a young infant while carrying out a sex act near the infant. Distinctive tattoos were on the defendants forearm. The internet protocol was provided which was hosted by Virgin Media and linked to the defendants home address in Limerick, said Mr OSullivan.

Gardai identified the accused man from photos on social media that showed his tattoos. On January 17, 2021, his home was searched and photographs taken of a bedroom which became apparent was the bedroom in the videos and photos.

Mobile phones and baby grows were seized which were identical to the clothes the child was wearing in the child abuse images, said Mr OSullivan.

The prosecuting barrister said the childs mother had no reason to believe anything untoward was occurring.

Mr OSullivan said there were 17 files - 15 videos and two images - of child abuse uploaded to Kik. Some of them related to images obtained from unidentified parties.

Limerick Live has taken the decision not to report on the exact details of the offences committed against the infant - which were heard in court - due to their disturbing nature.

The court heard the defendant sent the mother of the infant a letter from Limerick Prison in which he said he was sorry for what he had done. He wrote that he was on stuff that made him turn into a creep.

Mr OSullivan said it is believed the stuff is in reference to cocaine which he was partial to.

The prosecuting barrister said the accused made very valuable admissions to gardai and told them he was deeply ashamed.

The court heard he has over 100 previous convictions which include violent disorder, burglary, robbery, dangerous driving, unauthorised taking of a vehicle, threatening to kill or cause serious harm, endangerment, possession of drugs and having drugs for sale or supply.

Brian McInerney SC, who represented the accused, asked Detective Garda ONeill if it was quite unusual to write a letter from Limerick Prison to the outside world acknowledging their wrongdoing. The detective said it was unusual.

The mother of the child read out her victim impact statement in which she said there was a knock at the door in January 2021 and "it was the guards".

The last thing that came to mind was a thing like this. I never thought that something like this would come to my family. I never thought my son would be violated in such a way. The worst thought is what might have happened that I mightn't even have a clue about. It was such a shock to me, my family and friends, said the woman, who spoke of the effect it has had on her mental health.

It has had a big impact on my life and I think about it every day. I would be more cautious about who I leave my son around because I can't trust anybody after this, said the woman, who told Judge ODonnell she would like the defendant identified and is willing to waive her anonymity.

The judge said it would identify her son.

Everybody in Limerick knows what happened, said the woman.

READ MORE: Man, 61, jailed for drugs seized on Limerick farm after garda raid

Mr McInerney said his client made very frank admissions to gardai and inculcated himself when he wrote the letter to the mother. The barrister said the early pleas avoided a trial which would have involved a multi-jurisdictional aspect.

His plea is an acknowledgement in open court of his wrongdoing. It cant be said he comes to court with no previous convictions but he has no relevant convictions. It is not a record he can be proud of, said Mr McInerney.

He said his client hasnt taken up bail on these matters and has been in custody since May 2, 2023.

He acknowledges he has to be punished. He bears the guilt within himself which will be with him for the rest of his life, said Mr McInerney.

The barrister said his client had significant difficulties with cocaine at the time of the offending but is not blaming cocaine.

His family relations are ruptured. He is responsible and nobody else. He is willing to work with services in prison and post-release to assist him in rehabilitating himself. He is deeply ashamed, said Mr McInerney, who added that the accused will be excluded from a large part of society,

He wishes to apologise humbly to everybody. The paramount concern is a child of very tender years. Nothing should emerge that would lead to the identification of the child, concluded Mr McInerney.

Judge ODonnell said it was a very, very disturbing case. He said he had read the probation report and the victim impact statement and will give his decision this Friday morning.
A fully electric bus service is due to be launched in Limerick this Friday as part of a 54m investment.

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan, along with Stephen Kent, CEO Bus Eireann, and Anne Graham, CEO National Transport Authority, are to launch Limericks electric service. will officially launch the new fleet in Colbert Station on April 12, 2024.

The new services include 55 state-of-the-art double deck electric buses to be introduced as part of 54 million NTA investment.

It also includes reconfiguration of the Limericks Roxboro bus depot, the installation of 35 charging stations, an electric substation to power the fleet and a comprehensive driver and mechanic training programme.

The service will be operated by Bus Eireann, and funded by the National Transport Authority.

The investment follows Irelands first ever all-electric town bus service, which was launched in Athlone in January 2023.

Stephen Kent, CEO Bus Eireann says: Our mission is to help make life better and this transformative 54m investment in new zero emission fleet and charging infrastructure, funded by the NTA, helps us reduce greenhouse gas emissions, providing a cleaner and greener public transport solution for everyone in Limerick city.
The notion that Captain Robert Nairac infiltrated the IRA and was involved in the Kingsmill massacre is utter fantasy, a coroner has said.

Delivering his findings in the long-running legacy inquest into Kingsmill on Friday, coroner Brian Sherrard said he was entirely satisfied that Captain Nairac had no role whatsoever in the atrocity.

The British Army officer was abducted by the IRA while on an undercover operation in a pub in south Armagh in 1977, the year after Kingsmill.

He was then taken to Flurry Bridge in County Louth where he was beaten and shot dead.

His remains have never been found.

Mr Sherrard said rumours around Captain Nairacs involvement in Kingsmill had persisted for many years.

He said: The rumours are likely to have arisen due to the fact that the terrorist who brought the minibus to a stop had an English accent, Captain Nairacs reputation as a soldier who adopted unorthodox strategies in combating terrorism in Northern Ireland and his own tragic murder by the IRA.

In the intervening decades the absence of publicly available and reliable information concerning both the Kingsmill deaths and Captain Nairacs whereabouts has fuelled rumours.

The coroner added: The inquest is entirely satisfied that Captain Robert Nairac had no role whatsoever in the Kingsmill atrocity.

He was based in London on January 5, 1976.

The evidence before the court is that he was fully engaged in demanding battalion duties at the relevant time.

He was not in South Armagh on January 5, 1976 or the period beforehand.

The notion that he would have been able to infiltrate the IRA in that area is the stuff of utter fantasy.

Captain Robert Nairac was a highly decorated soldier and his memory is ill-served by those who persist in rumour-mongering concerning his involvement in Kingsmill.
There appeared to be some reluctance on the part of the Irish State in the wake of the Kingsmill attack to acknowledge the role of the border in the massacre, a coroner has said.

Delivering his long-awaited findings in the legacy inquest, coroner Brian Sherrard said the Irish border was exploited by the terrorists and that the attack was in part organised from the Republic of Ireland.

Ten Protestant workmen were shot dead when a gang ambushed their minibus near Kingsmill, Co Armagh, on January 5 1976.

The killings were described by the coroner as an overtly sectarian attack by the IRA.

He said concerns had been raised over the significance of the Irish border in facilitating the atrocity and hampering the investigation.

He added: The evidence considered by the inquest leads to the conclusion that the border was exploited by terrorists.

Each jurisdiction had its own police, its own military and its own laws.

Normal policing was impossible in South Armagh which, in contrast to the Republic of Ireland, was in chaos due to terrorism.

The secretary of state for Northern Ireland at the time of the attack, Merlyn Rees, citing the hostility of certain members of the local population, described the area as almost uncontrollable.

The border allowed for planning, training, organisation, weapons storage and retreat at a safe physical and legal distance from the authorities that would be faced with investigating terrorist acts in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sherrard added: The inquest is confident that the Kingsmill atrocity was, at least in part, organised from the Republic of Ireland.

This can be seen in the theft of the H&P Campbell van and its subsequent disposal both of which took place in the Republic of Ireland.

The palm print lifted from the van originated from a known IRA terrorist located south of the border.

Police assessments over successive investigations, albeit based on intelligence, pointed to suspects being domiciled in the Republic of Ireland.

Four of the weapons used in the attack were subsequently located in County Louth.

In the aftermath of the attack, there appears to have been some reluctance on the part of the Irish State to acknowledge the role of the border.

Patrick Cooney, Irish minister for justice, is quoted in several newspapers denying that the terrorists had fled south.

He maintained that the terrorists responsible were based in South Armagh.

Mr Sherrard said the existence of the border was also considered a difficulty by the RUC in terms of arresting suspects.

He said evidence given to the inquest that intelligence given to the RUC about the identity of those involved in the attack suggested it would have been of limited value as most were resident south of the border.

However, he said evidence also confirmed that lines of communication were open between police in both jurisdictions.

The coroner added: The attack clearly resonated with the government in Ireland.

Some of the concern reflected in contemporaneous newspaper reports surrounded the possibility of reprisal attacks south of the border.

Patrick Cooney, then-Irish minister for justice, raised the prospect of imminent civil war in Northern Ireland.
University Concert Hall Limerick will welcome five gifted, up-and-coming Irish classical artists from around the country to the stage this Sunday for a special afternoon of classical music curated by the Stars themselves.

Established in 2016 by the University Concert Hall, the Rising Stars Concert aims to bring gifted young, Irish classical artists to new audiences in a concert programme of their own choosing for one special afternoon concert.

This year the UCH Rising Stars are: Declan Murphy (Piano), Aimee Banks (Soprano), Mickey Tomas (Piano), Alice Abreu (Violin) and Megan O Neill (Soprano).

Featuring students across Irelands top music schools from Cork School of Music and the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance to The Royal Irish Academy of Music, TU Dublin Conservatoire and the Irish National Opera Young Artist Studio.

The concert takes place this Sunday, April 14 at 3.30pm at University Concert Hall, Limerick with RTE lyric fms, Lorcan Murray presenting and renowned pianist Dearbhla Collins providing accompaniment on the night.

A unique part of the concert is that the programme is curated entirely by the UCH Rising Stars artists, made up of works chosen by themselves. The 2024 includes works by Liszt, Mahler, Schumann, Bach and Debussy among others.

Sinead Hope, Director of University Concert Hall, commented: Classical music is one of the cornerstones of our annual programme at UCH and supporting and fostering young artists is a key part of that. As the leading venue in the mid-west region, it is important that we offer an opportunity and a platform to emerging artists to perform for new audiences. I am blown away each year by the calibre of young Irish artists, and this year is no different. It is my pleasure to work with the various music colleges from around the country and bring Rising Stars to life each year.

Ticketing & Event Information

Date: Sunday, April 14, 2024

Time: 3.30pm

Tickets: 12| Conc. 1 0

uch.ie





Website:

Rising Stars 2024 Programme

Declan Murphy (Piano)

Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2

(With Original Cadenza)

_________

Aimee Banks (Soprano)

Handel Non disperar (Giulio Cesare)

Mahler Ich atmet einen linden Duft (Ruckert Lieder)

Larchet A Stoirin Ban

Lehar Meine Lippen sie kussen so hei (Giuditta)

________

Mickey Tomas (Piano)

Lyadov Music Box op.32

Schumann Zart und Singend from op.6 Davidsbundlertanze

Scriabin Sonata no.4 in F-sharp major

__________

Alice Abreu (Violin)

Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending

___________

Megan O Neill (Soprano)

Bach Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen

Debussy Apparition

Hamilton Harty The Stranger's Grave

Verdi Sempre libera (La Traviata)

*SPONSORED CONTENT
SINGAPOREChinas push to replace foreign technology is now focused on cutting American chip makers out of the countrys telecoms systems.

Officials earlier this year directed the nations largest telecom carriers to phase out foreign processors that are core to their networks by 2027, a move that would hit American chip giants Intel and Advanced Micro Devices, people familiar with the matter said.

The deadline given by Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information Technology aims to accelerate efforts by Beijing to halt the use of such core chips in its telecom infrastructure. The regulator ordered state-owned mobile operators to inspect their networks for the prevalence of non-Chinese semiconductors and draft timelines to replace them, the people said.

In the past, efforts to get the industry to wean itself off foreign semiconductors have been hindered by the lack of good domestically made chips. Chinese telecom carriers procurements show they are switching more to domestic alternatives, a move made possible in part because local chips quality has improved and their performance has become more stable, the people said.

Such an effort will hit Intel and AMD the hardest, they said. The two chip makers have in recent years provided the bulk of the core processors used in networking equipment in China and the world.

Chinas MIIT, which oversees the regulation of the wireless, broadcasting and communication industries, didnt respond to a request for comment. China Mobile and China Telecom, the nations two biggest telecom carriers by revenue, also didnt respond. Intel declined to comment. AMD didnt respond to requests for comment.

Beijings desire to wean China off American chips where there are homemade alternatives is the latest installment of a U.S.-China technology war that is splintering the global landscape for network equipment, semiconductors and the internet. American lawmakers have banned Chinese telecom equipment over national-security concerns and have restricted U.S. chip companies including AMD and Nvidia from selling their high-end AI chips to China.

Chinese authorities have in turn been pushing for years to remove foreign suppliers from critical supply chains, seeking to source products from grains to semiconductors locally as national-security concerns rise. Similar orders requiring Chinese state-linked entities to shift their buying to local tech alternatives have resulted in U.S. software and hardware firms including Microsoft and Dell Technologies gradually losing their grip on the market, The Wall Street Journal has reported.

China has also published procurement guidelines discouraging government agencies and state-owned companies from purchasing laptops and desktop computers containing Intel and AMD chips. Requirements released in March give the Chinese entities eight options for central processing units, or CPUs, they can choose from. AMD and Intel were listed as the last two options, behind six homegrown CPUs.

Computers with the Chinese chips installed are preapproved for state buyers. Those powered by Intel and AMD chips require a security evaluation with a government agency, which hasnt certified any foreign CPUs to date. Making chips for PCs is a significant source of sales for the two companies.

China Mobile and China Telecom are also key customers of both chip makers in China, buying thousands of servers for their data centers in the countrys mushrooming cloud-computing market. These servers are also critical to telecommunications equipment working with base stations and storing mobile subscribers data, often viewed as the brains" of the network.

The two chip giants have the lions share of the overall global market for CPUs used in servers, according to data from industry researcher TrendForce. In 2024, Intel will likely hold 71% of the market, while AMD will have 23%, TrendForce estimates. The researcher doesnt break out China data.

Chinas localization policies could diminish Intel and AMDs sales in the country, one of the most important markets for semiconductor firms. China is Intels largest market, accounting for 27% of the companys revenue last year, Intel said in its latest annual report in January. The U.S. is its second-largest market. Its customers also include global electronics makers that manufacture in China.

In the report, Intel highlighted the geopolitical risk it faced from elevated U.S.-China tensions and Chinas localization push. We could face increased competition as a result of Chinas programs to promote a domestic semiconductor industry and supply chains," the report said.

Geopolitics already cloud the outlook for Intel and AMDs China operations. Intel said in January that $3.2 billion, or 6% of their revenue in 2023, was dependent on U.S. government export control authorization, an amount the company expected may increase in future years.

China contributed 15% of AMDs revenue last year, according to the companys annual report. That was down from 22% in 2022 after AMD was restricted by U.S. authorities from selling its high-end AI chips to China.

Lisa Su, chief executive of Santa Clara, Calif.-based AMD, was among the American executives who attended the China Development Forum in Beijing last month, a high-profile yearly gathering of multinational senior executives and Chinese policymakers.

China will form the bulk of demand for wireless communications equipment over the next few years, said Earl Lum, the founder of telecommunications consulting firm EJL Wireless Research. The country is seeking to move from 5G to even faster network speeds, and global telecom operators outside of China are slowing down their purchases, he said.

Local CPU substitutes have made large strides in recent years, with companies including Huawei Technologies HiSilicon and Hygon Information Technology, as well as entities including the National University of Defense Technology, gaining ground.

Chinese chips arent always considered as good, people familiar with the matter said, but they have been winning over Chinese telecom customers.

When China Telecom bought some 4,000 artificial-intelligence servers last October, 53% were powered by Intels CPUs. The rest used Huaweis Kunpeng processors, according to a tender document. In some earlier tenders seeking to buy servers, Intel made up a much higher proportion.

Raffaele Huang and Rachel Liang contributed to this article.

Write to Liza Lin at liza.lin@wsj.com
New Delhi: Semiconductor chip manufacturer Polymatech Electronics plans to raise 1,500 crore through an initial public offering (IPO) by the year-end, chief executive and managing director Eswara Rao Nandam said in an interview.

This public offer will be twice the size of the 750 crore initially planned, when the company had filed its draft prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) in October 2023. Back then, the company was considering a listing in April. The company, which manufactures opto-semiconductor chips, also called photonics, is seeking to divest a 10% stake through the IPO.

We will certainly go for the IPO of about 1,500 crore within this year. Weve informed Sebi that we will be refiling the DRHP with our March or June financials." The company is in the process of appointing merchant bankers for the sale, he added.

According to Nandam, several funds have expressed interest in investing in the company, but Polymatech prefers to take the IPO route to return value to its shareholders.

Promoters, including Nandam, hold around 80% of Polymatech, with 2.6% owned by Nav Capital Emerging Star Fund. According to the 2023 DRHP, there have been several private placements over the past few years, involving individual shareholders.

Polymatech's revenue nearly doubled from around 650 crore in FY23 to 1,200 crore in FY24. In FY22, its revenue was at 125.87 crore. The company expects to double its revenues every year driven by the anticipated rise in chip demand in the coming years. Besides, it has expanded its chip packaging capacity by 1 billion units in FY24.

Currently were making 2 billion chips a year. We will scale up to 20 billion chips over six years. We recently entered into wafer fabrication and growing ingots. We will be setting up a wafer fab and packaging plants. So, in all, were looking at a $5 billion investment over the next few years."

Out of the $5 billion, $1.5 billion will be invested from the proceeds of the IPO as well as internal accruals, he said, adding that the company will also be applying for financial incentive schemes offered by central and state governments for semiconductor units.

The Centre has established a $10-billion fund for the Modified Programme for Semiconductors and Display Fab Ecosystem, offering a 50% financial incentive to companies involved in chip manufacturing or assembly in India. Following the central government's approval, state governments may extend additional capital subsidies under their respective schemes.

The company currently operates two plants in Tamil Nadu. It is searching for a suitable location, spanning 45-50 acres, to set up a wafer fabrication unit for captive use.

Earlier this month, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with Japanese precision manufacturing firm Orbray, which will supply sapphire ingot growing technologies, besides training Polymatech's engineers at its facility in Japan. Sapphire ingots are crystalline structures used as the base material in the production of LEDs.

We will begin with sapphire, then we will get into silicon carbide and then silicon, to become a multi-wafer company, and will supply to anyone who comes to India, be it wafer, ingots or chips, anything that they may need."

It is also engaged in advanced discussions with suppliers of silicon carbide wafers and silicon wafer fabrication machinery, seeking to have tie-ups along the lines of the Orbray partnership.

Out of its planned investments of $5 billion over the next 3-4 years, it will allocate $1 billion to set up a 1 million sq ft facility for ingots by the year-end, he said. Another $1 billion may be invested for a local packaging unit, as well as overseas packaging units. Our company's vision is to become a fully integrated, end-to-end, semiconductor company."

The Chennai-based company designs, manufactures, packages, and assembles semiconductor chips and chip modules for various applications, including medical, agriculture, large-area lighting, PCs, laptops, and cell phone backlights. It also exports to the US, UK and the Middle East.

As of March 2024, Polymatech earned around $146 million from exports, said Nandam. It is also exploring overseas locations for establishing assembly and packaging units, he added. Were already in discussions with governments of Bahrain, Singapore and the UK, as well as the US. Officials from the US will be visiting soon."
Software company Globant SAs sleek office in downtown Buenos Aires features open floor plans, curvy desks and sweeping views across the river to Uruguay. Employees can fire up the grill for some Argentine asado barbecue, play pingpong, hit the gym or even ride a mechanical bull.

But workers dont have to be there. Globant Chief Executive Officer Martin Migoya is choosing not to adopt a return-to-office policy for his nearly 30,000 employees across 33 countries, making the software giant one of the worlds largest tech companies by headcount to remain fully remote.

Its not that Migoya doesnt appreciate in-person work. Hes been adding office space post-pandemic and employees are coming back, he said in an interview with Bloomberg Editor-in-Chief John Micklethwait. But it has happened without putting a gun to the head of anybody, he said.

Migoya said his initial impulse was: Lets make everybody come back. But hes settled on a softer sell that includes making offices more flexible and welcoming. We found that people come, they get together, they use our offices in a different way, and weve been modifying our offices to attend to that new reality, he said.

Migoyas teams redesigned the offices post-pandemic, replacing individual desks with more round tables that fit several people, while creating extra lounge space and phonebooth-style work stations for private meetings.

Globants lack of return-to-office policy contrasts with the approach of Apple Inc., Alphabet Inc.s Google, Microsoft Corp. and Meta Platforms Inc., which have all adopted policies to bring employees back to their desks. Even e-commerce behemoth MercadoLibre Inc., which was also founded in Argentina, requires its managers to spend 20% of their time in the office per quarter, according to a spokeswoman.

In the US, where Globant has seven offices, businesses are seeing attendance rates at 63% of pre-pandemic levels. New York and Miami lead the pack, with levels near 80%. San Francisco lags behind other major US metro areas at 45%, according to Placer.ais Nationwide Office Building Index.

Globant, whose clients include the NBAs Los Angeles Clippers, is in the early stages of hiring another 20,000 employees over the next five years as part of a $1 billion investment. The company, headquartered in Montevideo, Uruguay, also continues to open up office space beyond its large hub in Buenos Aires. Last year, it inaugurated a location in Tandil, a farming town three hours south of the capital that had little tech presence before.
In a tragic incident, a second-semester student of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Guwahati was found dead in his hotel room on Wednesday, April 11, as reported by the police, according to a PTI report.

According to Kamrup's Superintendent of Police, Ranjan Bhuyan, the body of the student was found hanging inside his room at the Dihing Hostel. A suicide note was also recovered from the scene, as per the PTI report.

He stated in the note that no one is responsible for his death. Prima facie, it does not look like any foul play is involved. However, we are continuing our investigation to find more details, Bhuyan told PTI.

The deceased student has been identified as Saurabh, a Computer Science student at IIT-Guwahati.

After the post-mortem and necessary legal formalities, the body was handed over to Saurabh's parents, who took it to their hometown of Samastipur in Bihar.

Also Read | IIT Guwahati completes technology transfer for first ever India-made swine fever vaccine

This is not the first time such a tragic incident has occurred at the Indian Institute of Technology. In February 2024, at IIT Delhi, an MTech student, Sanjay Nerkar, was found dead in his hostel room.
Bollywood actor and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Mandi seat in Himachal Pradesh Kangana Ranaut on Friday said Indians should not have any identity of their own because we all are Narendra Modi and should fight for him in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024.

Addressing a public rally in Kullu, Kangana Ranaut said, The spark of Sanatana Dharma, nationalism and battle against evil has been lit by PM Narendra Modi in our consciousness... We should not have any other identity of our own. We all are Narendra Modi."

"We will fight for him and his vision for development, the actor-turned-politician said.

Kangana Ranaut noted that when she joined the saffron party, from that moment, I don't have any other identity. I have one identity, i.e., BJP.

"We all are the same..." she added.

On Thursday, Ranaut hit out at the INDIA alliance, saying that the Opposition bloc has no political issues to fight for.

New people and outsiders should be given a chance. In the film industry also, I had to struggle with dynasties. They (the INDIA alliance) are not able to decide on their candidate. They seem to be nervous and scared... They have no political issues left..."

Recently, she was cornered for consuming beef, which she dismissed as baseless rumours" and called herself a proud Hindu".

I dont consume beef or any other kind of red meat, it is shameful that completely baseless rumours are being spread about me," she said.

The Congress party is speculated to field Vikramaditya Singh, the Minister of Public Works Department and Urban Development in the Himachal Pradesh government, against Kangana in the Mandi parliamentary constituency for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024.

The constituency is presently represented in the Lok Sabha by Vikramadityas mother, Pratibha Singh, who also holds the charge of state party president.
Lok Sabha elections 2024: In the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee each held public rallies in the traditional saffron stronghold of North Bengal's Cooch Behar Lok Sabha constituency. The contest in this constituency, historically dominated by the BJP, is now intensifying with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) making concerted efforts to challenge BJP's dominance.

The BJP has fielded the incumbent MP, Nishith Pramanik, while the TMC has nominated Jagadish Chandra Burma Basunia. Nitish Chandra Roy of the Forward Bloc (FB) is also contesting, engaged in a "friendly fight" alongside Congress's Pia Roy Chowdhury, who is an ally.

Barring Chowdhury, all other candidates belong to the Rajbongshi community.

Three seats in the DooarsAlipurduar, Cooch Behar, and Jalpaiguriwill vote during the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections on April 19th.

The anti-thesis in the plethora of poll promises made to the people of Dooars by either the BJP or TMC is primarily centered on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

Relying on the promise of the CAA, the BJP has succeeded in securing the majority of votes in this constituency since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Additionally, in the 2021 West Bengal Assembly Elections, the BJP emerged victorious in all seven Assembly segments within the Cooch Behar Lok Sabha constituency.

The schemes Jagadish Chandra Burma Basunia from the TMC camp has been described as the diamond candidate by TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee. Basunia is banking on the promise of an increase in the Chief Ministers direct benefit schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar to woo the voters from the Dooars belt.

Meanwhile, BJP's Nisith Pramanik, who is also the youngest minister in the PM Modi government, has been reaching out to the residents of Cooch Behar, including Muslims, in an attempt to counter the negative image of the saffron camp. Pramanik has also been organizing Sandeshkhali events to pitch PM Modi's developmental schemes and contrast them with the alleged atrocities of the TMC.

Modijis central schemes are for everyone  both Hindus and Muslims. Do you want a Sandeshkhali here? Pramanik said addressing a rally. The crowd responded with a resounding no.

Pramaniks campaign has been marked by small street-corner meetings with a convoy of cars, motorbikes and an open-top jeep. Meanwhile, Basunia has been holding meetings in villages accompanied by party workers and leaders.

'Time to turn around' Addressing an election rally at Kaljani village in Cooch Behar, which has a significant Muslim population, Pramanik said, Modijis schemes  PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, PM Vishwakarma can be availed by all, Hindus or Muslims. We do not differentiate I may be the candidate, but it is not about I. Its about we."

"Lets all strengthen Modijis hand, make India the worlds best nation. He also shifts focus to Sandeshkhali, asking the crowd whether they are aware of the atrocities the TMC committed against women there, as quoted in the report.
The U.S. and Japan have outlined plans to invest in infrastructure, semiconductor and nickel projects in the Philippines as the three countries seek to deepen ties amid tensions with China.

The initiatives, outlined in a joint statement by the countries leaders late Thursday, were announced as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited the White House for their first trilateral meeting with President Biden.

The countries are bolstering economic ties through the Luzon Economic Corridor." Investments and infrastructure projects include railways, ports and semiconductor supply chains on the Philippines most populous island.

The U.S. International Development Finance Corp., a federal agency that helps finance projects in developing nations, also intends to open a regional office in the Philippines, according to the statement.

A separate White House release said that one of the investments will come in the form of a grant to Philippine miner Eramen Minerals to develop an ore-to-nickel and cobalt processing plant, and that United Parcel Service will expand operations at Clark International Airport in Luzon, with work on a new hub slated to begin early next year.

In the joint statement, the leaders also underscored the need for close coordination in dealing with economic coercion" and expressed serious concern" about Chinas dangerous and aggressive behavior in the South China Sea."

The U.S. will launch new initiatives and projects at bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the Philippines, including more civilian-military disaster response trainings. President Bidens budget request for fiscal 2025 includes an additional $128 million for infrastructure projects, the White House release said.

The American and Philippine militaries have conducted joint patrols in the South China Sea since November. The disputed sea is ringed by China, Taiwan and Southeast Asian nations, but Beijing claims nearly all of it. China incrementally built up military outposts in escalating tensions, with the U.S. showing support for the Philippines to deter further Chinese escalation.
In recent months, prices of key industrial metals such as copper, aluminium, steel, and zinc have been steadily rising, reaching fresh multi-year highs. This upward trend is driven by a combination of supply disruptions and a notable increase in global demand.

The surge in demand for industrial metals is attributed to the resurgence of manufacturing activity in the world's two largest economies, the USA and China. Recent data indicates a strong rebound in manufacturing activity in both countries.

In the USA, manufacturing grew for the first time in one-and-a-half years in March, with significant increases in production and new orders. Similarly, China's manufacturing activity expanded for the first time in six months in March, signaling a recovery despite ongoing challenges in the property sector.

However, analysts are anticipating that China will announce more stimulus measures to revive the challenges in the housing sector, which could further fuel demand for metals.

The latest Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) readings, which reflect manufacturing activity, have shown notable improvements. In China, the PMI reached its highest level since March of the previous year, driven by increased export orders and a surge in factory output.

Consequently, Goldman Sachs has revised its outlook for China's economic growth, anticipating a stronger expansion than previously estimated.

Meanwhile, in Europe, Germany's industrial production exceeded expectations in February, driven by recoveries in the construction and automotive industries. This positive trend suggests that Europe's largest economy is on track to overcome recent manufacturing challenges and regain momentum.

Back in India, the manufacturing PMI improved to 59.1 in March from 56.9 in February. The growth of new orders accelerated to the quickest in nearly three-and-a-half years during March.

Metals boom The rebound in manufacturing activity in major economies has driven a surge in demand for metals, resulting in a sharp spike in prices in just a few months.

The price of copper has soared more than 15% over the past two months, reaching near a 15-month peak on the London Metal Exchange. Concurrently, the metal achieved an all-time high on the Shanghai Metal Exchange this week.

Global investment bank Citi forecasts the potential for an "explosive price upside" for copper in the next three years, driven by increased urbanisation and industrialisation, particularly in China. The bank expects copper prices to rise, with projections reaching $10,000 per metric ton by the end of 2024 and climbing to $12,000 in 2026.

Also Read: Chart Beat: Aluminium prices may take a while to shine

As demand for copper surges due to increased usage in power cables, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and solar panels, supply disruptions from China's mine closures threaten to impact global supply. Chinese smelters, responsible for over half of the world's refined copper production, face disruptions, contributing to supply concerns.

Zinc prices have surged by 12% in the past two weeks, reaching a near-one-year high. Reduced supplies from refiners, grappling with lower profits for processing the metal, have driven this upward trend.

Tin prices rose to their highest levels in over a year, with stockpiles declining to the lowest levels in nine months. The three-month Tin on the London Metal Exchange reached a year high of $32,745 per metric ton on Wednesday.

In today's trade, Shanghai aluminium surged to its highest level in almost two years. Concurrently, three-month aluminium on the London Metal Exchange is on the course for the fifth straight weekly gain, as per the media reports.

Indian metal shares gain momentum Amidst the ongoing surge in metal prices, Indian metal stocks have experienced a significant uptick as evident in the sharp rise of the Nifty Metal index, which surged over 17% in less than a month. Contributing to this rally are strong Q4 business updates, further bolstering investor confidence.

Notably, Hindustan Zinc, a subsidiary of Vedanta, witnessed a remarkable 37% surge in its shares over the past 8 trading sessions alone. In today's trading, the stock soared an additional 8.4% to achieve an all-time high of 450 per share. Similarly, Hindustan Copper, a state-owned mining company, saw its shares skyrocket by 55% in less than a month.

Vedanta, India's leading diversified natural resources company, also witnessed a sharp 46% return in less than a month. The recent 'buy' rating and target price upgrade by global brokerage firm CLSA to 390, up from 260, further fueled investor optimism.

According to CLSA, Vedanta is well-positioned to capitalise on the commodity upcycle due to its diversified exposure. Additionally, the company's initiatives to enhance capacity and profitability across segments are viewed favorably by analysts.
With the onset of the March quarter (Q4FY24) earnings season, brokerage house Motilal Oswal (MOSL) predicts a 6 percent year-on-year (YoY) growth in Nifty earnings for the quarter. Excluding global commodities (i.e. Metals and Oil & Gas), Nifty would post a 9 percent YoY earnings growth for the quarter, it forecasted.

It expects sales and EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) for Nifty to improve 9 percent YoY each. Ex-OMCs, EBITDA of Nifty is likely to grow 10 percent YoY though, it added.

As per the brokerage, overall earnings growth is likely to be driven once again by domestic cyclicals, such as BFSI (Banks, Financial Services and Insurance) and Auto.

Read here: Q4 Earnings Preview: These 5 companies are likely to post over 15% decline in net profit "Overall earnings growth is anticipated to be driven, once again, by domestic cyclicals, such as Auto and BFSI, which are expected to post 20 percent and 15 percent YoY growth, respectively. Conversely, earnings growth is expected to be weighed down by global cyclicals, such as Oil & Gas and Metals, which are anticipated to decline 6 percent and 12 percent YoY, respectively," it forecasted.

MOSL believes that private banks and NBFC-lending would mainly lead BFSIs earnings, with 14 percent and 23 percent YoY growth, respectively. However, it pointed out that earnings growth of private and PSU banks, at 14 percent and 12 percent, while healthy, is the lowest in 10 and 8 quarters, respectively.

Motilal Oswal (MOSL) maintains its forecast for the Nifty EPS at 980 for FY24, while it has revised its projection for FY25 by 1 percent to 1,132. The firm anticipates Nifty EPS growth rates of 21 percent for FY24 and 16 percent for FY25.

Read here: Q4 results preview: Top-line, profit of India Inc. may moderate, say experts Ahead of the March quarter earnings, the brokerage house has also made some key changes to its portfolio. Let's take a look at those: "Our Model portfolio remains aligned with key domestic cyclical themes amid a consistent backdrop of earnings growth. We remain overweight on Financials, Consumption, Industrials and Real Estate. Industrials, Consumer Discretionary, Real Estate, and PSU Banks are our key preferred investment themes. We have also made several additions from a bottom-up viewpoint across sectors," said the brokerage.

FINANCIALS: MOSL reiterated its 'overweight' stance on Financials and maintained a significant 'overweight' position on PSU banks. Valuations in the banking space are very reasonable after the recent underperformance, even as asset quality continues to remain healthy, it noted. It has kept stocks and weights broadly unchanged in both private and PSU banks. Meanwhile, in the NBFC- lending space, the brokerage has added Chola Investments. MOSL predicts that CIFC will sustain faster growth compared to its peers in the medium term, supported by a diverse product range and a steady enhancement in market share. With an impressive track record of achieving industry-leading loan growth (projected 23 percent AUM CAGR over FY24-FY26E), along with robust asset quality (expected credit cost of 1.2 percent over FY25-26) and a healthy RoE of 21-22 percent, CIFC is anticipated to maintain premium valuations relative to other NBFC peers.

Read here: Q4 results preview: 5 stocks are likely to post 45% rise in YoY net profit CONSUMPTION: The brokerage remains overweight on Consumption space as well with a significant bias towards discretionary consumption names. ITC is the only consumer staple stock it has held in its model portfolio. It has added Cello World to the portfolio.

"Cello, with a presence across diverse product categories, benefits from the growing total addressable market (TAM) in each category. The overall TAM of Cello is expected to record a 13 percent CAGR over FY23-27 (to 1,22,900 crore by FY27 from 74,300 crore in FY23). The company is anticipated to register a robust revenue/EBITDA/Adj. PAT CAGR of 18 percent/23 percent/25 percent over FY23-FY26," it explained. It also continues to maintain its allocations in Avenue Supermart, Indian Hotels, Zomato, Lemontree Hotels, and Metro Brands.

AUTOMOBILES: In this space, MOSL has replaced Hero MotoCorp with Samvardhana Motherson International (SAMIL).

"Given its well-diversified presence across components, geographies, and customers, SAMIL is emerging as the key beneficiary of the growing popularity of electric cars and the rising trend of premiumization across segments. This is evident in a solid ramp-up in its order book, where its booked business has scaled up to $77.3 billion. The stock trades at an attractive valuation relative to peers (at 17x FY26E EPS)," said the brokerage.

Read here: Q4 Results Preview: Auto companies to post stronger earnings led by PV, 2W/3W It has also reintroduced Craftsman Automation after the correction. Its track record of creating and gaining market leadership organically is uncommon in the auto component industry. This has enabled the company to deliver a good balance of strong growth and superior capital efficiency, noted MOSL. It estimates a CAGR of 25 percent/24 percent/30 percent in consolidated revenue/EBITDA/PAT over FY23-26.

METALS: While Coal India continues to remain MOSL's preferred idea, it has also added Hindalco to its model portfolio. Novelis has experienced a significant improvement in EBITDA/t over the last few quarters, which is expected to reach $600 by FY25-end (from $500 at present). The stock is currently trading at an EV/EBITDA of 5.5x on FY26E EBITDA, stated the brokerage.

CEMENT: In this space, the brokerage has added JK Cement, which has demonstrated superior execution capabilities, resulting in higher-than-industry volume growth. Its management has outlined expansion plans to reach over 30mtpa by FY26-27, and MOSL believes that JKCE has the potential to reach 50mtpa+ capacity in the long run. It has upgraded the FY25/FY26 EBITDA estimates for the cement stock by 5 percent/6 percent.

Read here: UltraTech to ACC: Should you Buy, Sell or Hold cement stocks ahead of Q4 results Here is a complete list of MOSL's top large and mid-cap ideas for the upcoming earnings season:

Largecaps  ICICI Bank, SBI, L&T, TITAN, ITC, HCL Tech, Coal India, M&M, Zomato, and Hindalco.

Midcaps: Indian Hotels, Godrej Properties, Global Health, PNB Housing, Kirloskar Oil Engines, Cello World, Sobha, Lemon Tree Hotel, and JK Cement.
Once a penny stock Eyantra Ventures has given multifold returns to its investors in the last 3 years. The stock has skyrocketed over 29,287 percent in this period, from 3.28 in March 2021 to currently trade at 963.90. Meanwhile, it rose over 216 percent in the last 1 year, rising from 305.20.

However, in 2024 year-to-date (YTD), the stock has surged over 67 percent, giving positive returns in 2 of the 4 months so far. The stock has not given any returns in April so far and March but rose over 63 percent in February and 2.2 percent in January.

Before March 2024, the stock had given positive returns in 5 straight months between October 2023 and February 2024. It had risen 172 percent in these 5 months.

The stock hit its record high of 963.90 on February 26, 2024, skyrocketing almost 216 percent from its 52-week low of 305.25, hit on May 29, 2023.

Eyantra Ventures Limited engages in the provision of information technology (IT) and IT-enabled services. The company was formerly known as Punit Commercials Limited. Eyantra Ventures Limited was incorporated in 1984 and is based in Hyderabad, India.

One must note that the stock is under Enhanced Surveillance Measure (ESM)- stage 1.

SEBI and Exchanges have collaboratively introduced an Enhanced Surveillance Measure (ESM) framework specifically tailored for Micro-Small Companies, defined as those with a market capitalization of less than 500 crores. The NSE circular outlines the criteria that apply to companies falling under ESM. This initiative is designed to enhance transparency and ensure that investors have access to crucial information before making investment decisions in these stocks.

The ESM comprises two stages. In Stage 1, the trade settlement for a stock will adhere to a Trade for Trade mechanism, with a price band of 5 percent. However, if the instrument already operates within a 2 percent price band, that narrower band will be applicable instead.

Earnings In the December quarter, Eyantra Ventures posted a net profit of 27 lakh, up from 23 lakh during the previous quarter ended December 2022. However, its revenue for the quarter ended December 2023 came in at 4.5 crore, surging almost 248 percent versus 1.32 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

Brokerage view As per ICICI Direct, Eyantra has experienced strong annual earnings per share (EPS) growth. Furthermore, the stock has exhibited strong momentum, evidenced by its price consistently surpassing short-, medium-, and long-term moving averages. These indicators highlight the company's proficiency in profit generation, efficient capital utilization, and commitment to delivering shareholder value.

About penny stocks Investing in penny stocks can seem enticing due to the potential for high returns, but it's important to understand the significant risks involved. These stocks may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who are risk-averse. Only individuals comfortable with high-risk investments and who are willing to allocate a small portion of their portfolio should consider them. It's highly recommended to seek advice from a financial advisor before making any decisions.

Penny stocks present numerous challenges. They often represent small, lesser-known companies with limited analyst coverage and minimal publicly available information. Additionally, the lack of transparency and access to management insights complicates investment decisions.

Furthermore, penny stocks are susceptible to various risks such as illiquidity, high-impact costs, and difficulties associated with low trading volumes. Without compelling reasons supported by thorough research, investing in penny stocks is generally not advisable for serious, long-term investors seeking stability and growth in their portfolios.
Stocks to buy: Indian stock market benchmark Nifty 50 fell almost a per cent in intraday trade on Friday, April 12, indicating a cautious sentiment in the market ahead of the start of the March quarter earnings.

Indian IT major TCS is expected to report modest numbers for the March quarter of the previous financial year (Q4FY24) on Friday.

The Q4 earnings, macro numbers and global cues are expected to move the Indian stock market in the near term. Experts expect the market to witness some correction as it is at an all-time high level. However, experts believe a price correction in the market will be a buying opportunity as a robust economic outlook, a strong influx of retail investors and the prospects of political stability after the Lok Sabha elections will augur well for the market for the medium to long term.

Also Read: Uday Kotak of Kotak Bank shows THIS wild card as he warns to be ready for turbulence

Two experts - Narendra Solanki of Anand Rathi and Chirag Shah of ICICI Direct - suggest the following six stocks to buy for the next 12 months. As per them, they can give solid double-digit returns in the next one year. Take a look:

Narendra Solanki, Head Fundamental Research - Investment Services, Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers APL Apollo Tubes | Previous close:  1,568.50 | Target price:  1,800 | Upside potential: 15% The company's management focuses on expanding to 4 million tonnes of capacity by the end of FY24 and 5 million tonnes by FY26. It plans to set up plants in eastern India and the Middle East respectively. The company aims to reach 10 million tonnes of capacity by FY30.

APL aims to establish a new plant in East India with a capacity of 0.2 MTPA. The land acquisition is in process for the project and is expected to be completed by the end of FY25.

The company remains confident on the growth path with a core focus on capacity expansion, geographical dispersion and product mix enrichment.

"We believe that in the coming quarters, profitability will improve due to the focus on VAP products, the ramp-up of the Raipur plant, the introduction of new products and favourable market conditions," said Solanki.

INOX India | Previous close:  1,353.45 | Target price:  1,675 | Upside potential: 24% INOX India provides a full spectrum of services encompassing design, engineering, fabrication, and deployment of equipment and systems tailored for cryogenic environments. Specializing in the provision of cryogenic equipment, particularly tanks, INOX India delivers integrated solutions for equipment and systems functioning under extremely low-temperature conditions.

The company has recently received patent rights innovative method of suspending inner vessels in dewar-type containers used for storing cryogenic fluids. Which aims to minimise the risk of damage during handling and transportation, thereby increasing the overall efficiency and reliability of the containers.

Going ahead, the company foresees a significant uptick in demand for cryogenic gases across various sectors including metallurgy, oil and gas, the chemical industry's decarbonisation efforts, electronics, healthcare, and space and satellite applications.

Specifically for LNG, the company anticipate robust demand from countries in Asia such as India, South Korea, and other nations in the region. These countries are progressively transitioning away from traditional energy sources like coal and crude oil towards cleaner options like nuclear energy and natural gas.

Due to the strong demand scenario for the companys current product offerings, higher cash flows, debt-free position and strong return ratios, we remain positive on the companys outlook.

Jindal Steel and Power | Previous close:  897.75 | Target price:  1,070 | Upside potential: 19% The demand for steel in India is expected to grow rapidly in the next two decades as the country enters a multi-year nation-building phase. As consumption of steel is expected to rise, most domestic steel manufacturers are investing heavily in increasing crude steel capacities with Jindal Steel, one of Indias largest integrated steel manufacturers, being in the forefront.

The companys ongoing expansion would significantly enhance its crude steel capacity, by 65 per cent, to 15.9 million tonnes and finished steel capacity, by 90 per cent, to 13.75 million tonnes, catapulting it to the fourth largest steel manufacturer in India by FY26.

The company is not only expanding capacity or strengthening raw-material integration but also undertaking many cost-saving initiatives, which significantly help manage margins through extreme raw material and steel cycles.

As part of the ongoing capex, it is setting up an 18 million-tonne 200km slurry pipeline connecting Barbil and Angul. The pipeline, which is expected to come on stream by Q1FY25, would not only help reduce costs but also lower transportation time, emissions and fuel consumed in logistics.

The company has a strong portfolio of value-added products, which spans the steel value chain. Its strong focus on operations and R&D enables it to manufacture many high-margin products such as five-metre plates (the widest steel plates in India), one of the longest rails, medium and light sections, bars, wire rods, etc.

Chirag Shah, VP, Equity Research, ICICI Direct PCBL | Previous close:  278.90 | Target price:  330 | Upside potential: 18% PCBL (erstwhile Phillips Carbon Black) is the leading manufacturer of carbon black, which is used as a reinforcing material in tyres. PCBL also derives nearly 9 per cent of sales volume from speciality carbon black, which fetches high margins and finds application in paints, and plastics among others. It has a healthy margin profile and possesses a capital-efficient business model (RoCE more than 15 per cent).

PCBL has commissioned its new carbon black plant with a nameplate capacity of nearly 150 KT at a total capex outlay of nearly 800 crore. The company expects to fully utilize its plant in about three years thereby targeting double-digit volume growth over the next few years.

With domestic macro drivers in place and a favourable export outlook, volume growth is seen at a healthy 12.4 per cent CAGR over FY23-26E to 6.35 lakh tonne in FY26E vs. 4.45 lakh tonne in FY23.

PCBL has, over the years, with indigenous R&D efforts developed grades in the speciality carbon black domain, which is a high-margin product (typically about 3-4 times normal tyre grade carbon black). Specialty-grade carbon black volumes are slated to grow at a CAGR of 23 per cent (higher than base business) over FY23-26E to 75 KT in FY26E versus 40 KT in FY23.

With volume growth on the anvil amid thrust on exports and increasing volume share of high-margin speciality grade carbon black sales (from 9.1 per cent in FY23 to 11.8 per cent in FY26E), EBITDA margins are slated to improve nearly 500 bps to 17.5 per cent in FY26E with EBITDA/tonne seen sustaining at nearly  20,000/tonne in FY26E.

Consequent RoE is seen expanding from sub 16 per cent in FY23 to more than 20 per cent mark in FY26E, which should drive a re-rating of the stock.

Ramco Cements | Previous close:  848.55 | Target price:  1,000 | Upside potential: 18% Ramco Cements is strongly positioned as strong earnings growth over FY23-26E is expected on account of healthy volume growth (led by timely capacity additions) and considerable margin improvement over the same period.

The company is in the process of expanding its cement capacity by 4 million tonnes (mtpa) to 26 mtpa by FY26E. Over FY23-26E, Shah expects volume growth of 12.6 per cent CAGR on account of timely capacity additions and pick-up in demand in its selling markets of southern and eastern regions.

In terms of margins, Shah expects EBITDA/ton to improve going ahead to 1061/ton by FY26E (from 794/ton in FY23), primarily led by benign fuel prices, focus on operational efficiencies (like an increase in the share of green power, expanding premium product portfolio) and positive operating leverage.

Shah expects revenue, EBITDA and PAT to grow at 11.6 per cent, 24 per cent and 31 per cent CAGR, respectively, over FY23 to FY26E. Valuation at 10.7 times EV/EBITDA on an FY26E basis looks attractive considering the strong growth ahead.

South Indian Bank | Previous close:  28.80 | Target price:  35 | Upside potential: 22% South Indian Bank has an advance book of 77,686 crore diversified across segments.

The bank has witnessed asset quality issues in the past which has impacted earnings momentum, however, a change in leadership has brought business transformation in the last two years which has improved the performance of the bank.

The new book, built in the last 2.5 years stands at nearly 67 per cent of overall advances with resilient asset quality evident from lower slippage at nearly 34 bps.

Under recently appointed MD & CEO - P.S.Seshadri, the bank is embarking on a multi-pronged strategy focusing on accelerating MSME & retail business, improving branch productivity and lowering the CI (cost-to-income) ratio (which is currently elevated at nearly 62 per cent).

Increased focus on the retail and MSME segment is seen to aid margins (at 3.19 per cent in Q3FY24) and improve granularisation. In addition, gradual improvement in productivity is expected to drive RoA to sustain at 0.9-1 per cent ahead.

Thus, improvement in business growth (expect nearly 13 per cent CAGR growth in FY25-26E) and operational efficiency (expect CI ratio at nearly 58 per cent in FY26E) should aid valuation further.

At the current price, the stock is trading at nearly 0.7 times FY26E BV which provides an investment opportunity.

Read all market-related news here
The Nifty closed at 22753.8, down by 1.03% today. Throughout the day, the Nifty reached a high of 22726.45 and a low of 22503.75. Meanwhile, the Sensex traded between 74951.88 and 74189.31, closing 1.06% down at 75038.15, which was 793.25 points below the opening price.

In terms of performance, the Nifty Midcap 50 closed 0.35% down, outperforming the Nifty 50. Similarly, the Nifty small cap 100 ended at 16571.4, down by 75.0 points and 0.45% lower, outperforming the Nifty 50 as well.

The Nifty 50 has provided the following returns:

- In the last 1 week: 0.01%

- In the last 1 month: 0.81%

- In the last 3 months: 2.84%

- In the last 6 months: 13.75%

- In the last 1 year: 26.41%

The top gainers in the Nifty index were Divis Laboratories (up 1.09%), Bajaj Auto (up 0.66%), Tata Motors (up 0.49%), Tata Consultancy Services (up 0.42%), and Tata Consumer (up 0.36%). On the other hand, the top losers in the Nifty index were Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (down 3.99%), Maruti Suzuki India (down 3.28%), Power Grid Corporation Of India (down 2.58%), Titan Company (down 2.48%), and Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (down 2.32%).

The bank nifty ended at 48986.6, with an intraday high of 48882.65 and a low of 48477.55. The bank nifty's performance over different time periods is as follows:

- In the last 1 week: 0.17%

- In the last 1 month: 2.73%

- In the last 3 months: 1.81%

- In the last 6 months: 8.91%

- In the last 1 year: 16.88%

Here is a list of top gainers and losers during the trading session on April 12, 2024:

Sensex:

Top Gainers: Tata Motors (up 0.67%), Tata Consultancy Services (up 0.45%), Nestle India (up 0.37%)

Top Losers: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (down 4.01%), Maruti Suzuki India (down 3.17%), Power Grid Corporation Of India (down 2.57%), Titan Company (down 2.40%), Larsen & Toubro (down 2.04%)

Nifty:

Top Gainers: Divis Laboratories (up 1.09%), Bajaj Auto (up 0.66%), Tata Motors (up 0.49%), Tata Consultancy Services (up 0.42%), Tata Consumer (up 0.36%)

Top Losers: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (down 3.99%), Maruti Suzuki India (down 3.28%), Power Grid Corporation Of India (down 2.58%), Titan Company (down 2.48%), Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (down 2.32%)

Nifty MidCap 50:

Top Gainers: Cummins India, Indian Hotels Company, Jubilant Foodworks, Steel Authority Of India, Lupin

Top Losers: Page Industries, Container Corporation Of India, ACC, Federal Bank, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation

Nifty Small Cap 100:

Top Gainers: Central Depository Service India, Exide Industries, Radico Khaitan, Creditaccess Grameen, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals

Top Losers: Piramal Pharma, Graphite India, IIFL Finance, Housing & Urban Development Corporation, NMDC Steel

BSE:

Top Gainers: Hindustan Zinc (up 7.59%), Archean Chemical Industries (up 6.18%), Quess Corp (up 6.04%), Mahindra Lifespace Developers (up 4.98%), KEI Industries (up 4.70%)

Top Losers: La Opala Rg (down 6.01%), PB Fintech (down 5.07%), Sun Pharma Advanced Research Com (down 5.00%), Indiabulls Real Estate (down 4.81%), Prestige Estates Projects (down 4.39%)

NSE:

Top Gainers: Hindustan Zinc (up 7.64%), Central Depository Service India (up 6.70%), Archean Chemical Industries (up 6.28%), Quess Corp (up 5.95%), Nuvama Wealth Management (up 5.22%)

Top Losers: PB Fintech (down 5.00%), Sun Pharma Advanced Research Com (down 4.99%), Prestige Estates Projects (down 4.62%), Piramal Pharma (down 4.38%), Page Industries (down 4.22%).
BENGALURU : Elara India Opportunities Fund (EIOF), an entity registered out of the island country of Mauritius, was once big on Adani stocks. At the end of December 2022, it owned 1.6% in Adani Enterprises Ltd, 3.62% in Adani Energy Solutions, and 1.62% in Adani Total Gas Ltd.

Elara has since pared its ownership in the Adani companies, but has been busy betting big on Indian small-cap stocks. The fund has committed 771 crore to small-cap companies, subscribing to preferential shares issued by eight of them since November 2022, a Mint analysis shows.

Elara is not the only Mauritius-based fund backing small-cap companies. There are also Aries Opportunities Fund, Forbes EMF, Coeus Global Opportunities Fund, and AG Dynamics.

These five funds have invested 1,600 crore in 17 small-cap companies since November 2022. They accounted for 40% of the 3,953 crore raised by these 17 companies between 1 November 2022 and 29 February 2024, according to a Mint analysis. These companies had raised the money through preferential issues of shares to the public.

Elara invested in eight of these companies while Aries Opportunities Fund invested in nine. Forbes EMF and AG Dynamics have invested in seven companies each, and Coeus Global Opportunities Fund in six companies.

Incidentally, in nine of these companies, entities controlled by alleged online gambling kingpin Hari Shankar Tibrewala and his business associates had invested or committed to invest another 202 crore.

As Mint reported earlier (here and here), entities linked to Tibrewala had an at least 1% stake in 13 small-cap companies and participated in the preferential allotment of 13 firms.

Tibrewala, Indian investigating officials believe, is the alleged Dubai-based mastermind behind the Mahadev online betting scandal, illegal proceeds from which are suspected to have been funnelled into small-cap stocks.

On 8 March, the Enforcement Directorate, the agency that fights economic crimes in India, labelled Tibrewala a hawala operator, saying he had used several entities to launder illicit money made from the betting app into buying stocks in India.

To be sure, the fact that the Mauritius-based funds and Tibrewala and his associates invested in the same company doesnt necessarily mean that they acted together.

Still, this large investment by a group of investors into a small group of companies may have played a role in Indias small-cap bubble. Information about the investments surfaced when Suraj Chokhani, an associate of Tibrewala, was arrested by ED.

How does a preferential share allotment inflate stock prices?

Think of a company that is expected to return money to shareholders through dividends or a share buyback. Before a formal announcement is made, investors often jostle to buy its shares, which eventually leads to a surge in share price. The same is the case with a company planning to raise money by issuing convertible warrants that convert into shares for a group of investors.

According to a Bengaluru-based analyst who researches small-cap stocks, using channels such as WhatsApp or Telegram, speculation is built up, drawing retail investors to companies that would raise money through preferential allotment of shares.

A preferential share allotment, like a share buyback, is done at a premium to the current share price. A full subscription to the preferential share allotment suggests that there is indeed value in a business. This makes investors put in even more money at an already high price. And thats how a stock price bubble is born.

Ten of the 17 small-cap companies mentioned above that went for preferential share allotments saw their share price more than double in the 12 months before a formal announcement was made.

For instance, Rathi Steel and Power Ltd saw its share price surge 1,120% in the year before the board stamped its approval for a preferential share allotment. Shares of Cupid Ltd, a contraceptive maker, and Servotech Power Systems, which offers chargers for electric vehicles, jumped 574% and 349%, respectively.

When raising money through preferential shares, many of these 17 companies counted a number of investors, sometimes running into hundreds.

One of these companies was Gensol Engineering Ltd, an Ahmedabad-based firm that installs ground-mounted and rooftop solar panels. Gensol raised 900 crore through preferential shares: 133 crore from the promoters and the balance 767 crore from 161 public investors. About 20%, or 157 crore, came from three Mauritius-based funds. And another 5% was invested by Tibrewala.

Elara India Opportunities Fund, Aries Opportunities Fund, and Coeus Global Opportunities committed 65.32 crore, 47.9 crore and 43.55 crore, respectively. Tibrewala, through Tano Investment Opportunities Fund, which is domiciled in Mauritius, and JE Impex DMCC, registered in Dubais free trade zone, committed 43.55 crore and 8.71 crore, respectively.

Following the EDs decision to seize the shares owned by funds linked to Tibrewala, at least a dozen small companies told the exchanges they didnt know much about the funds participating in the preferential allotment of shares; that these funds were merely shareholders and that the promoters had nothing to do with the owners of these offshore funds.

The surging valuation of small-cap stocks made Madhabi Puri Buch, chair of the Securities and Exchange Board of India, the countrys market regulator, express concern in public. There are pockets of froth in the market. Some people call it a bubble, some may call it froth," she said at an event last month.

Also read: Anatomy of a smallcap stock scam

Frothy market valuation in mid-cap and small-cap stocks have been a big concern for regulators in India recently. Such a high concentration of few funds in the preferential allotment of shares in midcap and small-cap stocks raises an eyebrow," said V. Balakrishnan, a former chief financial officer and board member at Infosys Ltd.

Sebi should look at disclosure of ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO) of these funds, especially in midcap and small-cap stocks, to bring greater transparency to the markets and to protect public investors," he added.

The UBO mystery

In the wake of criticism of whether promoters of public companies were circumventing ownership rules by owning shares through foreign funds in their own companies, Sebi has promised to seek more details, based on economic interest and control, from foreign investors. But for now, the UBO of Mauritius-based funds remains a mystery.

A Mint review found four Mauritius-based funds disclosing more than one UBO.

Take the example of AG Dynamics Funds, which has promised 104 crore to seven small companies. When AG Dynamics invested in Stratmont Industries, a firm that makes and trades coking coal and metallurgical coke, Srishti Dixit was identified as the fund's UBO in a filing dated 6 January. Two months later, Variman Global Ltd, a Hyderabad-based IT services firm, a company AG Dynamics invested in, mentioned Paul Boskma as the UBO in a filing dated 7 March.

AG Dynamic Funds could not be reached for comment as there was no contact information provided on its website.

Srishti Dixit is the founder and managing director of ONS World, a firm she set up in June 2022. ONS World helps entities registered in Mauritius and also offers compliance services. Mint could not ascertain the identity of Boskma.

Nexpact Ltd is another Mauritius fund that was set up in June 2015. Saleem Aziz Habib Al Balushi is the UBO of Nexpact, according to an answer in Parliament by the junior minister of finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, on 19 July 2021. The minister shared the UBOs of 137 foreign portfolio investors in response to a question asked by Mahua Moitra, a former member of Parliament.

But according to a 6 January filing by Stratmont Industries, a company Nexpact invested in, Ashwanee Ramsurrun Vimesh is disclosed as the UBO. Nexpact could not be reached for comment as there was no contact details provided on its website.

Vimesh is the chief executive officer of ONS World. Before joining ONS World in July 2022, Vimesh was a director with Amicorp, a corporate services firm. Earlier, he also served as a director on Acropolis Trade and Investment Ltd, and Xcent Trade and Investment Ltd, two Mauritius-based funds that are investors in Adani group firms.

Another example is Eminence Global Fund PCC, whose UBO is Infinity Investments Manager Ltd, according to a 6 January filing by Stratmont. But a 7 March disclosure by Variman Global names Grigor Jabishvili as the UBO. Eminence Global has invested in both Stratmont and Variman Global.

Mint could not ascertain the identity of Jabishvili.

Eminence Global could not be reached for comment.

Finally, Tano Investment Opportunities Funds UBO is also identified as Vimesh, according to a 12 March filing by Cellecor Gadgets Ltd, a Delhi-based company that buys and sells consumer electronic goods like TVs and smartwatches. But Gensol, in a filing dated 9 February, named Tibrewala as Tano's beneficiary owner.

Twists and turns

The big question: Was ONS World managing Tano Investment Opportunities Fund, Nexpact and AG Dynamics?

Heres the twist.

When reached for a comment, Dixit of ONS World, in an email dated 8 April, said: Our duties are strictly confined to fund administration and fiduciary responsibilities from Mauritius and we do not have operations in India. Thus, any indication or claim of our names being utilized as beneficial owners is deeply concerning and entirely unauthorized from our side."

Dixit further added: We do not believe that there are such open disclosures with our names as beneficial owners. To the best of our knowledge, we maintain no beneficial ownership in any funds, and such activities are not tolerated within our organization as this is not our scope of activities. Any instance suggesting otherwise would constitute an illegal activity, and we are committed to investigating this matter thoroughly in any case where our names may have been used. We are sure our clients or us have not made such incorrect disclosures."

On 9 April, we reached out to Stratmont Industries asking for a clarification on the discrepancy in the identity of UBOs. The same evening, the company informed the exchanges of a typographical error and inadvertent mistake on the part of consultants".

We hereby clarify and bring it on record that Mr. Ashwanee Ramsurrun & Ms Dixit Shrishti are not the Ultimate Beneficial Owners," said Stratmont Industries.

Mint could not ascertain if Sebi allows companies to make such corrections more than three months after it initially makes a disclosure.

Also read: When Cupid stepped up to Tourism Finance, and walked back

Ravi Agarwal, managing director of Cellecor, also said it was an inadvertent error" to identify Ashwanee Ramsurrun Vimesh as the UBO and pointed to the companys clarification made to the exchanges on 1 April.

This is to inform you that inadvertently by oversight Mr. Ashwanee Ramsurrun name was mentioned as Ultimate Beneficial Owner of Tano Investment Opportunities Fund, whereas he was a director thereof," said Cellecor, in a filing dated 1 April. Cellecor had named Vimesh as the UBO of Tano on 12 March.

Cellecors latest disclosure now states that the UBO of Tano Investment Opportunities Fund at the time of investment in the company was the estate of Late Charles Endler Johnson. Mint could not ascertain who Johnson is.

An email sent to Tibrewala on his ownership of Tano Investment Opportunities Fund went unanswered.

Aries Global Opportunities Fund was set up in June last year, according to the government-run corporate registry of Mauritius. It has committed 381.71 crore across nine Indian companies in the past 10 months. Aries identifies Nitin Singhal as the UBO. Mint could not independently ascertain the identity of Singhal.

Forbes EMF, founded in 2015, and Coeus Global Opportunities Fund, founded in October 2017, have together committed 580 crore in Indian companies. According to the disclosures made to Indian stock exchanges, the UBO of both Forbes EMF and Coeus Global is Li Hoy Choo Li Kim For, a licensed auditor registered with Mauritius Financial Reporting Council.

Li Hoy Choo Li Kim For could not be reached for comment.

An email sent to Raj Bhatt, who is disclosed as the UBO of Elara India Opportunities Fund went unanswered. Bhatt is also the founder and chief executive of Elara Capital, an investment bank.

We will update this article as and when he responds.

What really baffles me is that even after more than a year when questions were raised on lack of transparency into who is the ultimate beneficial owner of these Mauritius-based entities, there does not seem to be any change in the status quo. The market continues to be left in the dark as to who the final beneficiaries of these funds are," said Sharmila Gopinath, a specialist adviser for India at the Asian Corporate Governance Association.

Mauritius-based funds are still a blackhole for the regulator when they try to know the people who are behind these entities," added Gopinath.

Many interests

Market watchers, meanwhile, have also questioned the role research and advisory firms play in propping up small-cap companies. In some cases, the research firms go beyond what they are supposed to dothat is provide research services to investorsand invest in companies themselves.

To be sure, this is not illegal but questions persist on whether such research firms ought to be investing themselves. Some market participants have pointed to the role one such firm, Omkara Capital, plays.

Founded by Varinder Bansal, a former journalist, Omkara Capital claims to arm investors with in-depth research that would help them invest in well-run companies, and in turn, maximize their capital. Founded in November 2020, Omkara counts 700 ultra-wealthy individuals and more than 1,000 individuals as subscribers.

While it helped investors find better candidates, Omkara also invested its own money, including that of its directors, in three companies: it committed 35.15 crore to buy preferential shares of Man InfraConstruction, Rathi Steel and Power and Fineotex Chemicals (it later withdrew from subscribing to shares offered by Fineotex Chemicals).

Tano Investment Opportunities Fund, which discloses Tibrewala as the UBO, is one of the subscribers to Omkaras reports. Tibrewala, through the funds that describe him as the UBO, subscribed to the preferential share allotment made by seven firms, including Rathi Steel and Power and Man InfraConstruction.

Finally, Tano Investment also picked a 2% stake in Omkara Capital in April last year, followed by an additional 3% stake in December.

Tano Investment Opportunities Fund owns around 5% equity in Omkara Capital based on the potential in our business," Bansal said in an email response to Mint.

Entire capital raised is at the same valuation for Tano and other investors, therefore Tano here is nothing more than an investor for us. And the valuation has been obtained from an independent valuer, thus complying with all the rules and regulations," Bansal added.

There are eight other investors in Omkara Capital Pvt Ltd, apart from Tano Investment Opportunities Fund, Bansal informed.

Mint could not find any disclosure on Omkara raising funds from outside investors, but Bansal maintains that the names of new investors in his firm should reflect by the end of the financial year.

Bansal declined to talk about his engagement with Tibrewala.

Omkara Capital Private Limited has been appointed by M/s Tano Investment Opportunities Fund (registered FPI) to provide research services wherein we were required to give our view/opinion/report about the companys business," said Bansal. Thereafter, it is completely their decision whether to do the investment in the company or not. We dont have any control on how someone uses our research. We have an in-house database where the reports are IP protected. We have no control on which client invests in which companies."

Bansal said that Omkara has provided research support to 80 companies for the Tano Investment Opportunities Fund.

We got approached to invest in Man Infra and Fineotex Chemicals by a reputed investment banker in Mumbai, and for Rathi, a banker in Delhi approached us," said Bansal, declining to share names of the intermediaries.

We have invested in Rathi Steel based on the fundamental research work done by Omkara Capital. Like all our investments, we did a plant visit, spoke to industry experts and the entire work was done before investing," he added. In Man Infra and Fineotex Chemicals, we decided to invest based on the growth and valuations of the company. However, we have withdrawn our investment decision in Fineotex."
Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has confirmed that he will be visiting India soon and meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, a recent report by CNBC-TV18 has revealed details about the billionaire's itinerary during his India trip.

According to the report, Musk's visit to India will begin on April 21. The billionaire will be in the country for 48 hours. During the visit, Musk is likely to make many high-profile announcements, including plans to launch the Starlink service and investment plans of around $2 billion to $3 billion in the country.

Apart from a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Musk is also expected to meet top government officials and industry representatives. Musk and Modi last met during the Indian prime minister's visit to the US in June last year, and the billionaire has since been seeking a reduction in import duties on electric vehicles to allow Tesla to start selling its EVs in the country.



The Indian government finally relented last month, announcing a new EV policy that reduces import taxes on some models from 100% to 15% if the manufacturer commits to investing $500 million or more, and sets up a factory in the country.

According to a CNBC TV 18 report, Musk's Tesla doesn't just want to manufacture cars in India, but also export them to the global market. A recent report by the Hindu Business Line had stated that Tesla is in talks with Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries for a possible joint venture to set up a manufacturing facility in India.



RIL and Tesla have reportedly been in talks for over a month, and RIL could potentially help create capacity for Tesla's Indian EVs.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday repeated his stern warning to Pakistan over cross-border terrorism and said India is ready to help the Shehbaz Sharif-led country if they feel 'incapable in dealing with the menace of terrorism.

In an interview with ANI, the Union Defence Minister also warned that Pakistan would have to suffer consequences if Islamabad tries to destabilise India using terrorism.

Also Read | Congress slams PM Modi over India-China border row comment: An insult to our Rajnath Singh said Pakistan is our neighbour and if they want, New Delhi is ready to provide all assistance to combat terrorism.

"If Pakistan thinks that it is not capable of controlling it, if they feel they are not capable, then India is a neighbour, if they want to take India's help, they should. India is ready to provide all assistance to combat terrorism," ANI quoted the Defence Minister as saying.

Read | Mazboot Modi sarkar: PM hails Uri, Balakot surgical strike "They are our neighbours, and if their intention is clear that terrorism should end, they should do that themselves or take help from India...we both can end terrorism. But this is their call, I am just giving a suggestion," the minister further told ANI.

Emphasising that the Modi government won't allow terrorists to operate within, the defence minister said, the government will do everything to stop the terrorists.

"We won't allow terrorists to operate within Indian borders. We will do everything to stop it," Singh said adding that India will do everything to combat terrorism.

Also Read | Nijjar killing: Trudeau blames previous government for being 'cosy' with India When asked if such action could be taken across the border, the defence minister said, "we will see what happens".

During the interview, when the Defence Minister was asked if the BJP leaders were getting aggressive during the campaign for Lok Sabha elections, Singh denied it and said the BJP-led NDA government's role has never been aggressive, but balanced.
Mohammed Saleem, the father of 25-year-old Indian engineering student Mohammed Abdul Arfath, who was found dead in Ohio earlier this week, said his family was hopeful that their son would be found alive, but all they got was his body.

He also expressed concern about the repayment of the 43 lakh education loan the family had taken to fund Arfath's studies in the United States. It was his dream to settle in the US. He was happy when the 43 lakh education loan was sanctioned. He then got admission at Cleveland University, Saleem told Indian Express.

I gave him foreign currency worth 10 lakh when he (Arfath) left for the US in May 2023 to pursue a Masters in Information Technology. He did not have to be worried about finances. He was a very clean person. He didn't have any bad habit. We were surprised when we got to know that he had been kidnapped and received a ransom call from a drug-related gang, his father said.

Arfath's father said they had no clue how he got into trouble in the US, adding that the family was only getting information from news reports on the incident.

Saleem, on March 17, received a phone call from an unidentified person in the US who claimed that Arfath had been abducted and demanded a ransom of $1,200 to release him. The kidnappers threatened Arfath's father by saying that they would sell his son's kidneys if he did not pay the amount immediately.

However, earlier this week, the central government informed them that the police had retrieved his body from Lake Erie near Cleveland.
Khalistan Zindabad Force operative Prabhpreet Singh has been arrested by the Punjab Police from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. Khalistan Zindabad Force is a banned terrorist outfit. Prabhpreet Singh is accused of recruiting and funding a terrorist module in Germany.

Punjab Police's State Special Operation Cell arrested the banned Khalistan separatist organisation's operative.

"In a major breakthrough SSOC, #Amritsar arrests Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) operative Prabhpreet Singh Germany from #Delhi International Airport. He was running terrorist recruitment, funding and aiding module from #Germany," Punjab's Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav posted on X.

Yadav in his social media post also informed that the Punjab Police is looking to disentomb all operations of the Khalistan Zindabad Force.

How did Punjab Police capture the Khalistani terrorist? According to official document, in 2020, Punjab Police's special op[eration cell has received confidential information on KZF terrorist Jagdish Singh Bhura. It said that Bhura has devised a plan to kill high -profile targets in Punjab. The information further mentioned that Bhura has distributed weapons among his India-based associates to carry out the task.

Punjab Police thwarted any attack by arresting four Khalistan Zindabad Force operatives, and recovering arms and ammunitions from them.

Prabhpreet Singh was detained by immigrations officials ion the Delhi airport, in lieu of a Look Out Circular.

What did the Khalistani operatives reveal? These arrested operatives had revealed during investigation that they were working on directions of Khalistani terrorist Bhura and his close aide Prabhpreet Singh.

The operatives also informed that the terrorist duo were planning to hit high-profile targets in Punjab.

The operatives revealed Prabhpreet Singh was living in Germany. Following this Punjab Police got a Look Out Circular issued against the Khalistani terrorist through the Bureau of Immigration, New Delhi to ensure his arrest.
Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the developmental and infrastructural work his party has done in Uttarakhand in areas like tourism, employment, etc. In an interview with Hindustan Times, the prime minister talked at lengths about what the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by him has done for the hilly state. PM Modi harped on increased tourism, especially for Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand to reiterate developmental work being done in the state.

PM Modi also mentioned that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led NDA has imparted special focus on the youth of Uttarakhand in order to generate employment. Special focus is being laid on horticulture of apple, kiwi and high-altitude fruits and construction of polyhouses, PM Modi told Hindustan Times.

Here are 10 things mentioned by PM Modi for Uttarakhand -In a seemingly ecstatic way, PM Modi talked about the increased tourism in Uttarakhand.

-The Parvatmal Yojana and the Char Dham Project will expand tourism in Uttarakhand in an unprecedented manner in the time to come, PM Modi asserted

-PM Modi informed that Uttarakhand has an improvement in roads, railways, ropeways and airways.

Notably, environmentalists have attributed increased infrastructural work in Uttarakhand for the instability of existence in the hilly state. Joshimath was one example, wherein houses noted big cracks, leading to an en masse exodus.

-PM Modi also informed that the BJP government has approved the plan to build IT labs and hostels in 20 colleges of Uttarakhand. An entrepreneurship programme is being run in the colleges in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India

-PM Modi also said that in Uttarakhand the BJP government made access to Badrinath, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, Manas Khand easier. PM Modi claimed that this increased religious tourism in the state

-Citing the 2013 natural disaster in Kedarnath, PM Modi claimed that his government had made sure devotees could still reach the place. Citing unsourced data, PM Modi said, If I include the devotees of the entire Char Dham Yatra, this number will exceed 55 lakh.

-"Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri will be connected by an about 900km-long highway soon", PM Modi said

-PM Modi talking about his Uttarakhand project informed that an approval has been given to install 4G mobile towers in Uttarakhand. BSNL is installing about 500 new 4G towers, and more than 60 towers are being upgraded, PM Modi said.

-"5G service is also available in many areas of Uttarakhand. Today, all four Dhams of Uttarakhand have 5G connectivity. With 5G connectivity in Gangotri, the milestone of 5G connectivity in 2 lakh sites across India was achieved." PM Modi hailed
Top Events Of The Day: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a rally at Modi Stadium in Udhampur. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi and CM Stalin are to frontline the INDIA bloc's rally in Coimbatore today. At least 88 companies, including TCS, Bajaj Auto, and Infosys, are scheduled to post their earnings today.

PM Modi scheduled to address an election rally at Modi Stadium in Udhampur on April 12: Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha 2024 elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is gearing up for a series of high-profile political rallies in this region.

Ravinder Raina, the BJP's Jammu and Kashmir chief, revealed that the party has mobilised its cadre for Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's rally on Wednesday, April 12, in Kathua.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hold a rally at the Modi Stadium in Udhampur today. The two leaders' visits aim to bolster the prospects of Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, the incumbent Member of Parliament and BJP candidate from the Udhampur Lok Sabha seat.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to visit Karaikudi to campaign for Sivaganga candidate T Dhevanathan Yadav on April 12: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Madurai, Tamil Nadu, on April 12 and 13. During his two-day trip, the Home Minister will participate in four road shows and a public meeting. After landing at the Madurai airport, Shah will travel to Karaikudi to campaign for the BJP's Sivaganga candidate, T Dhevanathan Yadav.

Rahul Gandhi, CM Stalin to frontline INDIA rally in Coimbatore on April 12: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will headline an INDIA bloc rally in Coimbatore, a prized Lok Sabha seat, where the BJP's state president, K Annamalai, is the party's candidate.

Hearing in a 2018 defamation case against Rahul Gandhi postponed to April 12: A hearing in a 2018 defamation case against Rahul Gandhi over his alleged objectionable remarks targeting Home Minister Amit Shah has been postponed to April 12 by a special court in UP.

SP President Akhilesh Yadav to start campaign for the SP candidates from Pilibhit Lok Sabha constituency: Samajwadi Party (SP) national President, Akhilesh Yadav, along with their opposition INDIA bloc partner Congress, will start campaigning for the SP candidates for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from the Pilibhit Lok Sabha constituency on April 12.

Earnings season in full swing: TCS, Bajaj Auto, and Infosys lead the pack as 88 results flood in- The curtain rises on India's corporate earnings season this month, with a whopping 88 companies slated to report their results for the January-March 2024 quarter (Q4FY24). Leading the charge is IT powerhouse Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which will unveil its Q4 performance on Friday, April 12. Investors can find the results on the TCS website and major stock exchanges. Other leaders like Bajaj Auto and Infosys are also on the list.

Auto and cab drivers of these three cities will go on strike on April 12: With the incessant rise in fuel prices and CNG gas, the auto-rickshaw and taxi union in Chandigarh has called for a strike on Tuesday, April 12. The "Cab Auto Sanyukt Morcha (CASM)" will be holding "Chakka jam" in Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula on April 12. Emergency services have been exempted from the scope of the strike.

Bharti Hexacom IPO to debut on the bourses on April 12: Bharti Hexacom IPO listing date has been scheduled for Friday, April 12. This week is a truncated week as the domestic benchmark indices remained closed on Thursday, April 11, on account of Eid-ul-Fitr. Investors can check their allotment status on the website of the Bharti Hexacom IPO registrar, Kfin Technologies Limited, as the Bharti Hexacom IPO allotment has been finalised.
Since the news of King Charles battling cancer, there have been speculations about reconciliation in the royal family. Now, a report by Page Six has stated that the King is likely to consider inviting Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Balmoral Castle this summer as he is desperate to meet his grandkids Archie and Lilibet.

Every year, the monarch enjoys retiring to the Scottish countryside with family members, including the Prince and Princess of Wales. This year is likely to be different.

A royal insider has told Page Six, I can see Charles desperately wanting to see the children and extending this olive branch to Meghan and Harry. He may decide that life is just too short.

Also Read: Meghan Markle named UK's least favourite royal; Kate Middleton is most favourite after cancer diagnosis The insider further explained why Barmoral could be an excellent location to resolve the royal rift. He added, Balmoral is truly the perfect, restful place for a reunion. If he does issue an invite, then Harry and Meghan should surely agree to the visit.

Archie and Lilibet, the grandchildren of King Charles, have not spent much time with the Royal family. Archie was born on May 6, 2019. Soon after that, on January 8, 2020, Harry and Meghan announced their controversial decision to step back from their royal duties, commonly referred to as Megxit, and settle in the US.

Also Read: Future of British Monarchy 'hangs by a thread that is Kate Middleton' this royal expert believes Lilibet, named after the childhood name of Harrys grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, was born on June 4, 2021. Both Archie and Lilibet have dual citizenship in the UK and the US.
Ambedkar Jayanti 2024: Ambedkar Jayanti, also known as Bhim Jayanti, is celebrated on April 14 every year to honor the memory of "Father of Indian Constitution" Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar on his birth anniversary.

1891-born Ambedkar was not only the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, but the first Law Minister of Independent India, a jurist, economist, and a social reformer.

He dedicated his life to eradicate discrimination against the untouchables and fight for the rights of women and labour. Hence, his birth anniversary is also known as 'Equality Day'.

Also read: Banks will be closed for 5 days this week. Check all details here Ambedkar's life was spent advocating for equality and fair treatment of all citizens in the eyes of law.

This year, Ambedkar Jayanti 2024 marks 134th birthday of Baba Shaeb, and a public holiday across India.

The day is marked by numerous events such as processions, community gatherings, and tributes at statues of Ambedkar across the country.
An Indian-origin woman, wrongly jailed while she was eight weeks pregnant, rejected the apology from her former boss during a public inquiry into the case she was acquitted in.

Seema Mishra, now 47, was sub-postmistress at a Post Office in England's Surrey, and was imprisoned over 12 years for allegedly stealing GBP 75,000 from the branch. Her conviction was quashed in April 2021.

Her case gained momentum again after the former Post Office Managing Director David Smith apologised for a congratulatory email he sent after Seema's conviction during an IT inquiry in London.

It was intended to be a congratulatory email to the team, knowing that they had worked hard on the case, he said in written evidence on Thursday.

Smith, apologising for the email, said, "Even if this had been a correct conviction, I would never think that it was brilliant news' for a pregnant woman to go to prison and I am hugely apologetic that my email can be read as such."

However, seeing this email in the light of what I know now, I understand the anger and the upset that it will have caused and sincerely apologise for that, he added.

Smith also said that Indian-origin woman had been used as a "test case" and the success of the case led to more confidence in the faulty Horizon IT accounting system.

Seema, however, rejected the apology saying no one apologised when she was acquitted, but only now, when the case is in public enquiry.

"I was eight weeks pregnant  they need to apologise to my youngest son. It was terrible. I haven't accepted the apologies," Seema told the BBC.

"We had my conviction overturned, nobody came at that time to apologise. And now they just suddenly realised that when they have to appear in a public inquiry, they have to apologise," she said.

The UK government, which formally owns Post Office, has paid out millions in compensation to hundreds of sub-postmasters  many of whom were from Indian origin impacted by the faulty Horizon software.
(Bloomberg) -- The European Union is moving toward approval of Ukraines reform plan in May, which would unlock an additional 1.9 billion ($2 billion) as part of a total 15.9 billion that the bloc has planned in financial aid for Kyiv for this year.

The European Commission, the EUs executive arm, is examining the plan but no major issues have been raised and member states could proceed to their approval as early as next month, a person familiar with the matter said.

The green light of the Ukraine plan would pave the way for future payments once the framework agreement with Kyiv is signed and the audit board is established, which is expected to happen by May, a commission spokesperson said.

The nearly 16 billion planned for 2024 are part of the 50 billion Ukraine Facility that the bloc put together to support Kyiv financially for the 2024-2027 period. Kyiv submitted a plan last month containing investment and reform proposals that would gradually unlock most of the EU aid by 2027, once a series of milestones and targets are met.

As part of the plan, the commission will also disburse 1.5 billion as bridge financing in the second half of this month.

The remaining funding planned for this year would be disbursed in two payment requests once the Ukrainian government meets the agreed reforms.

Some of the changes agreed to for the second half of the year are the adoption of the medium-term state debt management strategy and spending reviews of the state budget or increasing the workforce of the specialized anti-corruption prosecutors office, according to the plan.

The EU finance ministers are expected to discuss Ukraines recovery plan on Friday in Luxembourg.

We are making progress in the right direction, both in terms of the provision of European funds and the use of Russian frozen assets, German Finance Minister Christian Lindner told reporters ahead of a meeting of euro-area finance ministers in Luxembourg on Thursday. Ukraine is the first line of defense also to European territory and European values.

(Updates with comment starting in paragraph three)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Former Ambassador of Israel to India, Daniel Carmon on Thursday lauded the Indian government for supporting Israel after Hamas launched horrific terror attacks on October 7, 2023, saying the strategic relations between the two nations are widely known.

It's natural and very much appreciated that the Government of India made a statement in support of its strategic partner, Israel. The ties between India and Israel are very strong and will continue, he said as quoted by newswire ANI.

He believes that the international community should stand in solidarity with Israel against October 7 attacks and should not leave the country to fend for itself until all contentious issues are resolved and Israeli hostages are released.

The Israeli envoy stated that India knows how to oppose terrorism. "India knows a thing or two about terrorism and how to confront it," Carmon said.

Speaking about Israeli hostages in Hamas, Carmon called it a terrible crime to abduct ordinary citizens from their homes. The international community should be aware of the October 7 tragedy and should not leave till all hostages are released safely, he added.

Meanwhile, some Israeli officials remain optimistic on negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza that would include the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told military recruits that progress in the war has allowed Israel to make difficult decisions to return the hostages".

Weve reached a critical point. If matters work out, a large number of hostages will return home and then, in stages, everyone. But remember that we are dealing with Hamas and there is not a lot of time. I am more optimistic than I was," Foreign Minister Israel Katz had said as quoted by Bloomberg.

The war started on October 7 when thousands of Hamas operatives broke into Israel from Gaza, killing about 1,200 people and abducting 250. Israel attacked by air, sea and land, and has killed some 33,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Israel is preparing for a direct attack from Iran on southern or northern Israel as soon as Friday or Saturday, a Wall Street Journal report cited sources as saying on Thursday (April 11). Sources said plans to attack are being discussed, however, no final decision has been made.

The report came days after Iran threatened to retaliate for an attack in Damascus, Syria. Tehran had accused Israel of launching airstrike on a consulate building. It had reportedly killed 13 people, including a senior member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps elite Quds Force.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has repeatedly said Israel will be punished" for the assault.

Amid the speculations, Bloomberg News had reported on Wednesday that the US and allies were expecting a major escalation of hostilities, with targeted attacks on Israeli government and military site.

According to Bloomberg, any Iranian attack on Israel would likely be a combination of missiles and drones, based on current capabilities outlined in a new Defense Intelligence Agency Worldwide Threat assessment released late Thursday.

Last week, Iran said it asked the US to step aside" as the country prepares a response to a suspected Israeli attack on its consulate in Syria. Meanwhile, Hezbollah, Iran's main proxy in the Middle East, warned Israel that its prepared for war, Bloomberg reported.

Israel-Iran conflict impact A direct Israel-Iran conflict would significantly impact the Middle East region, where tensions have been rising since Israel-Hamas war over the Gaza strip.

Israel had launched a war against Palestinian militant group Hamas in October last year. The was war prompted by an attack by Hamas that killed about 1,200 people in Israrel. The Iran-backed militant group, Hamas, is designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union.

White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said earlier that the US has warned Iran not to use Israels attack on Syria as a pretext to escalate hostilities further. Weve seen the threats coming from Iran and so we have made ourselves very clear where we stand in supporting Israels security, she was quoted as saying. That is ironclad," she added.
TEL AVIVIsrael is preparing for a direct attack from Iran on southern or northern Israel as soon as the next 24 to 48 hours, according to a person familiar with the matter. A person briefed by the Iranian leadership, however, said that while plans to attack are being discussed, no final decision has been made.

Iran has publicly threatened to retaliate for an attack last week in Damascus, Syria, that Tehran said was an Israeli airstrike on a diplomatic building. The strike killed top Iranian military officials, including a senior member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps elite Quds Force.

Earlier this week, U.S. intelligence reports showed that an attack on Israeli assets by Iran or its proxies could be imminent, but a source says it now appears that the attack could be within Israels borders.

A U.S. official with knowledge of the matter said Thursday that American intelligence reports indicate an Iranian retaliatory strike within days, possibly on Israeli soil" as opposed to Israeli interests elsewhere.

On Thursday, the American embassy in Israel said U.S. government employees and family members would be restricted from any personal travel outside of central Israel, Jerusalem and Beersheba until further notice.

Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, which is responsible for military operations in the Middle East, was in Israel Thursday, defense officials said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking from an air base in southern Israel, also on Thursday, vowed to respond directly against any attack on Israel. Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively," he said.

Syria also accused Israel of carrying out the attack, which killed Gen. Mohammad Reza Zahedi, who managed Iranian paramilitary operations in Syria and Lebanon, according to Iranian state media and U.S. officials. Zahedi was the highest-ranking Iranian military official to be killed since the January 2020 U.S. assassination of Gen. Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad.

At least six other Iranian militants were killed in the strike, Irans Revolutionary Guard said.

An Israeli military spokesman said that intelligence showed the building hit in Damascus wasnt a diplomatic facility but a building that the Quds Force uses and is disguised as a civilian site.

Earlier this week, Irans Revolutionary Guard contacted the countrys Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with several options to strike Israeli interests, said an adviser to the paramilitary force. The scenarios under consideration include a direct attack on Israel with sophisticated medium-range missiles, he said.

In recent hours, social-media accounts close to the Revolutionary Guard have posted videos showing simulated missile attacks on Israels Haifa airport and its nuclear facility in Dimona. An Iranian official has also previously said Iran would strike at Israels power and desalination plants if attacked.

But Khamenei has yet to decide on the plans. He is concerned a direct attack could backfire with the projectiles being intercepted and Israel responding with a massive retaliation on Irans strategic infrastructure. The strike plans are in front of the Supreme Leader and he is still weighing the political risk," the adviser said.

The scenarios involve attacks by Tehrans proxies in Syria and Iraq, for which Iran delivered drones out of warehouses in recent days, according to advisers to the IRGC and the Syrian government.

Iran and its allies could also attack the Golana disputed territory annexed by Israel from Syria in 1981or even Gaza, they said, to avoid an attack within Israels internationally recognized territory. Another option would be to strike at Israeli embassies, notably in the Arab world, to show them that friendly ties with Tel Aviv could be costly, these people said.

Meanwhile, the international community has been scrambling to avoid an escalation. On Thursday, Annalena Baerbock and David Cameron, respectively the foreign ministers of Germany and the U.K., both called their Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, to ask Tehran not to attack Israel, according to British and Iranian officials.

Calls have been made by several regional and European ministers to Irans Foreign Minister," a spokesman for Irans mission at the United Nations in New York told The Wall Street Journal.

Write to Dov Lieber at dov.lieber@wsj.com, Benoit Faucon at benoit.faucon@wsj.com and Warren P. Strobel at Warren.Strobel@wsj.com
(Bloomberg) -- New Zealand and the US have pledged to work more closely together on common challenges, in a further sign that Wellington is re-aligning itself with traditional western partners as China becomes more assertive in the Pacific.

In a joint declaration signed Thursday in Washington, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recommitted to the historic partnership between the two nations and the principles that underpin it, including the rule of law, democracy and human rights.

The strategic environment that New Zealand and the United States face is considerably more challenging now than even a decade ago and demands that we work together more urgently and concertedly, Peters said in a statement. As we face a range of common challenges, globally and in the Indo-Pacific region, its more important than ever that New Zealand and the United States find common cause in defense of shared values and interests.

New Zealands new center-right government, which took office late last year, is seeking to deepen its ties with like-minded western nations such as Australia, the US and UK amid concerns about Beijings growing ambitions in the Pacific. In doing so it runs the risk of antagonizing China, its biggest trading partner, which could retaliate by curbing purchases of New Zealand goods  a strategy it has used against Australia.

Wellington is exploring joining Pillar Two of the Aukus security pact between Australia, the US and UK, and last week said it is also working on a new partnership with NATO.

Read More: New Zealand Expects Chinas Respect As it Explores Joining Aukus

China is clearly the target of all this cooperation, said Geoffrey Miller, a geopolitical analyst at the Democracy Project in Wellington. I think that New Zealand could be taught a lesson by Beijing if it flies too close to the sun and keeps signing up to these kinds of things.

The joint declaration noted New Zealand and US membership of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group and lauded both countries deep ties with  and commitment to  the Pacific Islands.

Our countries are united by our enduring stake in an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, it said. We are resolved to uphold the conditions that have seen the region thrive, including freedom of navigation, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for sovereignty and internationally agreed-upon rules and norms.

New Zealand, Australia and the US were shocked when the Solomon Islands announced in early 2022 that it had signed a security agreement with Beijing. In response, Washington, Canberra and Wellington have dramatically increased their engagement with Pacific nations.

Peters and Blinken said they will now seek to meet annually as the most challenging strategic environment in decades requires us to do more together.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
(Bloomberg) -- Listen to the Big Take DC podcast on iHeart, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and the Bloomberg Terminal.

A Japanese companys bid to buy US Steel has sparked a fight with the United Steelworkers union  and put the company at the center of the 2024 presidential contest.

Today on the Big Take DC, reporters Joe Deaux and Josh Wingrove trace why the deal came to a halt, how the company fits into Joe Biden and Donald Trumps brands of political nostalgia, and why the fate of this deal could have an outsized impact on the election.

Read more: How the US Steel Takeover Became About Biden and Swing States

Listen to the Big Take DC podcast every week.

Here is a lightly edited transcript of the conversation:

David Gura: In March, Takahiro Mori, a senior executive at Japans largest steelmaker, hopped on a flight from Tokyo to Pittsburgh.

Josh Wingrove: He'd come all the way to the altar of the steelworkers, you know, this hallowed ground of the American labor movement, of the American steel industry.

Gura: Josh Wingrove covered the fallout from that visit for Bloomberg News, and he says Mori flew all that way to clinch a big deal:

His company, Nippon Steel, wanted to acquire US Steel Corporation, which was once the largest company in the world.

Wingrove: Really, it was an olive branch. He's trying to convince the union leader to get on board.

Gura: On the other side of the table was Dave McCall, the head of the powerful United Steelworkers union.

In corporate takeovers, unions dont always hold much sway. But due to a combination of timing, circumstance and politics, in this deal, they do.

Joe Deaux: Dave McCall and his team sat in silence.

Gura: Thats Joe Deaux. He covers metals and mining for Bloomberg News.

Deaux: You send one of your highest ranking executives of a top five global steel maker 15 hours to the United States, and there's an expectation that a substantial conversation will occur.

Gura: But that is not what happened.

A lot people thought this landmark deal was a corporate slam dunk, but talks fell apart in less than an hour. The future of the deal is now uncertain.

In part, because its happening in the crucible of a presidential election.

Wingrove: The issue is the politics, and the politics is the union.

Gura: And now, there are huge consequences  for President Biden, former President Trump, and the entire American steel industry.

Today on the show, what this fraught US Steel deal tells us about American manufacturing and union politics  and what it could all mean for Joe Biden and Donald Trump.

This is the Big Take DC podcast from Bloomberg News. Im David Gura, filling in for Saleha Mohsin.

This is not your run-of-the-mill corporate deal. Because US Steel is not just any company.

Joe Deaux: It was the world's largest company.

Gura: Thats Joe Deaux, a Bloomberg metals reporter.

US Steel was forged in 1901 by a few names you may have heard before: Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan and Charles Schwab. The metal its made is a part of the United Nations building, the New Orleans Superdome, and the Chicago Picasso sculpture. But its metal is used for more than just landmarks:

Deaux: Steel is ubiquitous. It is in everything.

Steel: A Symphony of Industry: Steel has kept pace with and anticipated the increasing needs of the nation

Deaux: Steel is in the roads. It's in your refrigerator, houses. Like, it's everywhere.

Steel: A Symphony of Industry: In any giant ladle of molten metal, there may be steel that is destined to defeat time and distance, to provide the framework of mighty buildings

Deaux: And so, this was a company that at one point, when we were a manufacturing based economy, was absolutely central to everything. It was also part of the war machine. World War I, World War II.

Conquer by the Clock: The tools that in our hands mean victory, and our hands must be as relentless as the hands of our clocks

Deaux: It employed a lot of people. But, automation came around in the seventies and eighties and people started to lose their jobs and talk to any of these steelworkers, and they will tell you. Yeah, I remember when they brought a continuous caster into the plant and that was fully automated and we instantly lost a lot of jobs. A lot of people who worked in the mills and the furnaces for ages were no longer needed.

Gura: Automation hit US Steel particularly hard.

The company was slow to adopt new, more efficient technology. Plus, in the last few decades, other countries like China, have doubled down on steel production, and theyve undercut the US on prices.

Joe says, US Steels approach put it at a competitive disadvantage.

Deaux: These old blast furnace mills that have been around since the day of Andrew Carnegie. They're slower. You can't turn them on and off. You cant flip a switch. If you want to bring them down, there's a massive process behind that.

Gura: And pretty soon, US Steel fell behind.

By 2015, the company was posting losses of more than $1 billion a year.

And in 2020, US Steels CEO made a bold move:

He spent a lot of money on one of those new, higher-tech plants  the kind a company can scale up or down quickly, and uses a process that doesnt pollute as much.

Deaux: He paid a premium for it. And I remember at the time when he bought it, many people in the steel industry they'd laugh. They said, I cannot believe how much they overpaid for this mill. But at its core, what all these people said was it's kind of their only option. Because if not, you're still talking about a company slowly marching toward its doom.

Gura: That big bet  paid off. That mill became the crown jewel of US Steel. It was a boon to its bottom line.

But it also introduced a new problem. Workers at that new, higher tech plant werent unionized. Which posed a threat to workers in those old-school mills, who are members of the United Steelworkers union, or the USW. Non-unionized labor at profitable US Steel plants weakened the Unions bargaining power.

Those USW workers are the people Dave McCall was representing at that tense meeting with Nippon Steel  the company that wants to buy US Steel.

Now, at the time of that meeting, even though US Steel had managed to pull itself out of the red  thanks in part to its decision to purchase that state-of-the-art mill, it still had long-term capital concerns. Which made it interested in a merger.

Nippon Steel announced its bid in December. It offered to invest over $1 billion in the company, and promised it would not idle plants or have any immediate layoffs.

Deaux: That announcement came out at 6 in the morning. I spoke to Dave McCall just before 6:30am.

Gura: Wow.

Deaux: And you could sense a bit of surprise in his voice. I think anybody I could say, yeah, if you at a company and you find out some you've never of maybe is, is gonna buy your company, you might also just have questions like, what that, you know, mean for me or my job? Uh, and, and is like one of the things that we've heard from not just McCall, but the steel workers themselves. Right.

Gura: One of those workers is Rob Hutchison. Hes been a USW member for the last 28 years.

Joe recently caught up with him in Pittsburgh.

Rob Hutchison: Of course, everybody's worried about their job, their future, their community, the iconic name of US Steel being lost.

Gura: Hutchison told Joe this isnt just about being blindsided by the news  that their companys being sold  and sold to an international company they didnt even know was bidding.

Hes also concerned about security  security he and other workers dont believe theyd get with this current offer.

Hutchison: What kind of investments is Nippon actually going to make? Are they going to live up to their, their promises? Which have been pretty vague at this point.

Deaux: It's not just saying you're going to invest $1.4 billion dollars. It is, of that $1.4 billion dollars, we're going to invest X number of millions of dollars to the mills are unionized work. You need some assurances that go beyond just save half of the mills.

Wingrove: Right now there's sort of like two sides of the coin to US Steel.

Gura: White House reporter Josh Wingrove.

Wingrove: One is this new, modern, more efficient plant, the crown jewel, and the others are the older, more hallowed, unionized blast furnaces that have a lot more political clout.

Gura: For Mori, that crown jewel is what his company wants. But he cant get his hands on it without the backing of the union, which represents the other part of the company.

Wingrove: To a lot of people, this deal is a no brainer. It is a sale to an allied country's company. A lot of people thought this would sail through, including, it seems, the buyer.

Gura: But McCall and the union rejected the deal. In part because the bid didnt specify which jobs Nippon Steel would keep  whether the deal would protect union work.

McCall also said Nippon Steel shouldve consulted the USW sooner. But the union had been backing a rival bid, from an American company.

Wingrove: Nippon Steel said it couldn't rope the union in to its own bid. It would be showing its hand to an ally of a competitor. The union walked out politely. They didn't like storm out, but the union wasn't satisfied.

Gura: US Steel and Nippon Steel gave Bloomberg a joint statement, which said, in part:

We are confident that our partnership will protect and grow US Steel. The deal will protect jobs, strengthen American supply chains, and enhance the competitiveness of the US economy, all while building resilience against threats from China. US Steels headquarters will remain in Pittsburgh, and its products  supported by significant capital investments and technology sharing from Nippon Steel  will remain mined, melted, and made in America. 

One week after the meeting, President Biden released his own statement which was pretty extraordinary.

Wingrove: It called explicitly for US Steel to be American owned and American run. It went farther than a lot of people thought it would.

Gura: Essentially, because the union opposed the deal President Biden did, too.

Deaux: A president weighing in on a deal in the first place is huge. And then weighing in on, like, a steel deal is, like, next level.

Gura: Why Joe Biden weighed in on a steel deal at all, what his support of the union means for the future of US Steel, and how all of this could figure into the 2024 election after the break.

Were back.

After the head of the United Steelworkers union rejected Nippon Steel's offer to takeover US Steel, President Biden stepped in to say he had the union's back. Heres Josh Wingrove on why

Wingrove: Joe Biden has spent the last four years courting unions. Biden is from Scranton, Pennsylvania. His dad moved their family to Claymont, Delaware, just outside of Philadelphia. The steel industry, Pennsylvania steel industry, union jobs. I mean, this colors every speech this guy gives. It is the entire lens of Joe Biden and his view on the economy.

Gura: In a sense, its not surprising President Biden would weigh in on this dealthat hed throw his support behind the USW even if presidents are largely reluctant to weigh in on corporate takeovers. And his decision to back the union paid off.

Within a few weeks, the United Steelworkers union endorsed Bidens reelection campaign.

Wingrove: The union leadership are essentially unanimous. The question is, will their members follow them? Quite clearly, a lot of union members like Donald Trump.

Gura: Thats because while Biden has branded himself as Union Joe, its impossible to talk about US manufacturings rise to prominence without talking about Donald Trump.

With his Make America Great Again slogan, Trump is appealing to nostalgia for a time when American manufacturing reigned supreme  US Steels golden era.

When he ran for president in 2016, Trump said hed prop up the struggling US steel industry.

Wingrove: These are blue collar workers, Trump is speaking to them. And he flipped a lot of these important states in 2016 by speaking to them.

Gura: Two years later, as president, he made good on that promise. Trump imposed a 25% tariff on steel imports. Which was a radical move.

Wingrove: The tariffs caused a mess. Everyone, including allied countries, uh, who lost their minds over that. But they were successful in reshaping the domestic steel industry. And right now, those tariffs remain in place because there's bipartisan agreement on them. Democrats and Republicans think they work.

Gura: Which brings us back to Union Joe, and his own nostalgia-based tagline: Build Back Better.The steel industry is one of very few issues where there is common ground among Republicans and Democrats.

Wingrove: On the issue of protecting steel, Trump and Biden are very close together. I mean, it's difficult to distinguish their policies. The direction is one way on this, and that is more protectionism for the American steel industry.

Gura: And keeping US Steel American-owned has important symbolism.

Which makes a Japanese takeover of US Steel in 2024 very tricky.

Because what might be best for US Steel Corporations bottom line  being bought out by a Japanese company  is not what its union wants, and or what either leading presidential candidate wants.

Wingrove: The question has shifted a little bit from who should own US Steel to what's the best outcome for the United Steelworkers?

Gura: Both Biden and Trump have spoken out against this deal. But Josh Wingrove says that raises another question neither candidate has answered:

Wingrove: What would be a better option?

Gura: There are a few different ways this could go.

One: the deal does not happen, and US Steel remains independent. But that might mean the company runs short of capital, and workers could still end up losing their jobs.

Option two: the takeover does happen but then the union wont be happy.

Option three: US Steel gets bought by another company, or a combination of other companies. But the other highest bidder, the one backed by the union, is another US steelmaker, named Cleveland Cliffs. Cleveland Cliffss bid would likely be lower, and it would give the company a monopoly over domestic iron ore reserves and a dominant share of coveted automotive steel.

Wingrove: Then you create antitrust concerns and if I was ranking the top two things that Joe Biden focuses on in managing the economy, it's probably unions and anti monopoly efforts.

Gura: Its unclear where the deal goes from here. Even if it does go through, it could get tied up in legal and regulatory maneuveringsincluding by President Biden, whose administration is reviewing the deal to confirm there are no security concerns from this foreign investment in a US company.

Wingrove: Joe Biden almost certainly cannot win the presidency again, if he loses Pennsylvania, there are a lot of swing states, but this is for him crucial. It is a big state. It has a lot of electoral college votes. It's his home state. Demographically, if he loses Pennsylvania, he's probably losing. Similarly for Trump, if he can steal away Pennsylvania, his odds of winning go through the roof. So Pennsylvania is the ball game in some ways. And that's why we're seeing such focus on this.

Gura: So Josh thinks, its likely a decision on the deal just slides until after the election.

Wingrove: It's really messy. It's just a no win situation. And the administration has a lot of leeway to stop, start, you know, pause the clock, review this, review that. They can really delay things.

Gura: But slowing down this deal is also risky.

Wingrove: Because if it collapses, that might not be good for US Steel, and it might not be good for the steel workers. And if it's bad for the steel workers, then all the politics that are hanging over this deal flare up again. And the question will be, who helped kill this deal, and why, if people eventually blame whatever is about to happen for them losing a shift, or losing a job, or closing a plant.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
(Bloomberg) -- US attempts to press the Netherlands and Japan into further curbing Chinese access to semiconductor technology suffered a setback this week, with both nations seeking time for existing limits to take hold  and to see who triumphs in the US presidential election.

The US is urging allies to tighten maintenance for banned gear in China, an effort that includes pushing the Dutch government to stop ASML Holding NV from servicing and repairing restricted chipmaking equipment procured by Chinese companies before the current sales ban. US officials also want Japanese firms to limit exports of some high-end chemicals for chip production.

But both nations are resisting those additional steps, wanting more time to evaluate the impact of export bans on high-end chip-making equipment, according to people familiar with the matter. Another factor is uncertainty about the outcome of the US election in November, according to the people, who described the private discussions on condition of anonymity.

ASML and the Dutch trade ministry declined to comment. Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said it was in touch with international export control authorities, but declined to comment on diplomatic exchanges. The US Commerce Department didnt immediately comment.

The impasse signals that uncertainty about President Joe Bidens chances in November is clouding his attempts to further stall Chinas technological rise. Republican nominee Donald Trump led Biden in key swing states, 47% to 43%, according to the latest Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll released in late March.

While Trump has floated imposing a tariff of more than 60% on Chinese goods if hes elected, he has yet to fully lay out how he would handle the US-China tech trade war.

During his presidency, Trump sanctioned Huawei Technologies Co. and eventually cut off the Chinese companys access to leading global chipmakers including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. His administration also blocked ASML from selling extreme ultraviolet lithography machines, required for making cutting-edge chips, to China.

Senior US officials including Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security Alan Estevez met their Dutch counterparts in the Netherlands on Monday to raise the issue of preventing ASML from servicing their restricted machines in China, according to some of the people. Dutch officials told the American delegation that it was too early to push for new measures, and it would be better to wait and see the results of the recently imposed restrictions.

As of this year, ASML is banned from selling its three top-of-the line deep ultraviolet lithography machines to Chinese firms. US officials last year persuaded The Hague to cancel some of the Dutch suppliers shipments to China before the restrictions were put in place.

The US delegation subsequently visited Berlin to discuss similar curbs with German counterparts, people familiar with the matter said. American officials want German optical component maker Carl Zeiss AG, a critical supplier to ASML, to pull back from shipping key parts to China, Bloomberg News has reported.

Officials in the German chancellery neither signaled support for nor rejected the US proposal outright, pointing to Chancellor Olaf Scholzs upcoming trip to China, according to the people. Scholz is heading to China over the weekend with a business delegation that includes Zeiss Chief Executive Officer Karl Lamprecht. He is due to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday, with the semiconductors curbs set to feature high on the agenda.

A spokeswoman for Zeiss said the company was in contact with ASML and officials, but declined to comment further.

US officials also stopped in Brussels this week to discuss a number of issues including chips and sanctions on Russia, people familiar with the situation said.

Meanwhile, Japanese officials have not agreed to US calls to limit exports of at least some chip-making chemicals for China, some of the people said. Its not clear whether Biden administration officials broached this issue during Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas visit to Washington earlier this week.

--With assistance from Takashi Mochizuki, Jillian Deutsch, Debby Wu and Alberto Nardelli.

(Updates with visit to Brussels in second to last paragraph)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Even as humanity frets about all the jobs AI will impact, one profession clearly under threat is that of predicting the future. What job does a futurist have if everything changes every now and then as an AI company unveils a product that makes our jaws drop. Every January, I would predict the top 10 things that would happen in tech that year; and then go back with some trepidation at year-end to score how I fared in my fortune-telling abilities. I did the same this January and whipped out my 10 AI predictions for 2024. However, given the onslaught of innovation, I have resolved to do a quarterly scorecard. With the years first frenzied quarter having drawn to a close, here it is:

Tech wars would rage: The AI race would accelerate, I said, with the Microsoft-OpenAI alliance in fierce contest with a resurgent Google. OpenAI would launch GPT5, which will outpace Gemini Ultra. Verdict: Its still to play out, but the signs look promising. Sam Altman has spoken of GPT5 in the middle of the year." Gemini Ultra seems to have had a major hiccup and has been temporarily withdrawn. So, this one seems right on the money, 10/10.

AI moves to the edge: Gemini Nano on the Pixel and an AppleGPT on iPhones could be the sleeper hits, dislodging OpenAI from the lead. Mobile access and integration would win over the PC. Verdict: Samsung AI Phone launched in February. Microsoft Surface AI version was announced, followed by Intel AI PC. Qualcomm predicts $99 AI phones by the end of 2024. No AppleGPT. But AI is hurtling towards the edge. So its 7/10.

Race to regulation: This race is as big as the race to develop AI. Following the EU AI Act, many other countries will release AI regulations. There will be an effort for global regulation modelled on the nuclear IAEA or CoP climate summits. Verdict: The EU AI Act came right on time. Otherwise, we had more noise than action. India and the US are still to announce comprehensive rules. 4/10.

The future of work: AI will start transforming work, especially with the launch of Microsoft Copilot and similar products. Work will be the biggest use case for GenAI. Verdict: Microsoft is all in now, with CoPilots for everything, including a copilot key on its Surface keyboards. Github Copilot is doing well, but 365 Copilot still underwhelms. 3/10.

AI will impact jobs: Jobs will not be directly hit, but many companies across the world will use AI and GenAI as a cover to retrench for efficiency. Verdict: Everyone across tech is shedding jobs and blaming AI related efficiencies. Every country is preparing for a great shift in jobs with AI. 7/10.

Open and proprietary LLMs: The other race will be between proprietary and open-source GenAI, with performance trading off against decentralization. Proprietary tech will continue to have the upper hand, at least in 2024. Verdict: Open source seems to be edging out proprietary. Grok has gone open, Meta Llama is going gangbusters. There is momentum out there. Sticking my neck out, I think 2024 still belongs to OpenAI and non-open models. 5/10.

Big Tech reshaped: There will be new entrants to the Big Tech league of Microsoft, Meta, Netflix, Alphabet and Amazon. Verdict: The Nvidia juggernaut rolls on. Its the No. 3 Big Tech firm now, and its recent Developer Day had intriguing announcements. Google seems to be slipping. 7/10.

AI threatens democracy: With 2 billion-plus people going to polls in 2024, technologies like deepfakes will be used actively by many players to change narratives and voters minds. Verdict: I have teeth gritted on this one. Its too early to call since both the US and Indian elections are later in the year. But the signs of deepfake destabilization still look promising, if that is the word. 5/10.

Microsoft and OpenAI: Microsoft may buy OpenAI or break up with it. Some of the big funded GenAI startups may close (Stability?), and some may merge. Verdict: Ah, this is an interesting one. Microsoft poached Mustafa Suleyman and Inflection in a massive hedge move against OpenAI. Altman has looked a bit shaky. Emad Mostaque is out; Stability not that stable anymore. 8/10.

Chief AI officers: More companies will appoint CAIOs, like many of them had chief digital officers. The CAIO will become the new hot ticket in town. Verdict: Well, one must go wrong somewhere. There arent many CAIOs, as business is yet to embrace GenAI. 0/10.

They say that one should never make predictions, especially about the future. But the tech world would agree with Peter Drucker when he said the best way to predict the future is to create it. And no single thing is creating the future like AI is.
The Supreme Court this week reversed an arbitration award, a Delhi high court order, and its own previous decision in rejecting a 8,000-crore claim by Anil Ambani owned Delhi Airport Metro Express Private Ltd (DAMEPL) against Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

The order has to do with a 22.7-km railroad that cost 5,700 crore to build. It was India's first metro rail project built under a public-private partnership (PPP) and was supposed to be completed before the Commonwealth Games in 2010.

It was eventually completed in 2011, but did not exceed its budget. DMRC was responsible for the civil works such as stations, viaducts and tunnels, while DAMEPL  a special purpose vehicle formed by Ambanis Reliance Infrastructure Limited was responsible for building and maintaining the system works such as tracks, signals and rolling stock.

When the project was being awarded, the huge difference in the estimates between the first and second bidder should have sent alarm bells ringing. While DAMEPL offered a share of revenue, the second bidder asked for an annual subsidy of 346 crore or an interest-free loan of 1,440 crore. With the Commonwealth Games imminent, Delhi Metro approved it in a rush.

The other mistake was that the projects concession agreement put the construction risks on DMRC and operations risk on DAMEPL. Generally in a PPP, the political risks are borne by the public party while the system risks are borne by the private party.

The project ran into safety issues within a year of its completion. DAMEPL suspended services for safety repairs in July 2012. A joint inspection team allegedly found the majority of the bearings in the civil construction were defective. Services resumed in January 2013, but acrimony over fares, punctuality and other issues worsened, and DAMEPL terminated the project in June 2013.

A long court battle began when DMRC encashed the bank guarantee of 55 crore in response. DAMEPL won an arbitration claim of 8,009.38 crore against DMRC, citing a termination payment the concession agreement equal to 130% of the adjusted equity and 100% of the debt from the project.

Since then, a single-judge high court bench and a two-judge Supreme Court bench have upheld DAMEPLs plea. Ranged against those were the orders by a division bench of the high court and now a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court. By any reckoning, this is a huge rollercoaster ride through the Indian courts system. Meanwhile, the costs had risen as the sum, including interest, was way beyond the financial capacity of DMRC and would have to be borne by both the centre and the Delhi government, equal shareholders in the company.

It is natural to expect that in any contract with the state, companies will try to sweeten their share. This is compounded, as L&Ts former chief AM Naik said in an interview, when less qualified companies win projects by quoting the lowest figure but fail to complete them on time. This needs to change in the national interest," he said. The remedy involves state entities drafting clear and simple contracts.

Instead, the Delhi airport metro project fell prey to the first problem that Naik highlighted and then compounded it by dragging the dispute through Indias labyrinthine courts system, demonstrating the high risks for companies undertaking infra projects in India. The Supreme Court verdict being set aside by another bench will be seen as a huge minefield by companies that plan to undertake such projects.

It is particularly concerning because an Indian court has again overturned an arbitration award. Just last year, the finance ministry had issued detailed guidelines for state-owned companies not to contest adverse awards. The intention was to build a non-adversarial climate on arbitration since India is trying to bring some of that business on shore.

The Supreme Courts action undercuts those instructions. Departments could now point to this award, saying it is worth fighting cases indefinitely in the hope of eventually wringing out a favourable verdict. Even though this was a curative petition, it is difficult to claim that the last word has been written on the claim.

According to World Bank data, less than 5% of PPPs worldwide are cancelled. Still, the demonstration effect from this verdict could be significant. Yet, one has to hope that it will not discourage private companies to bid for infrastructure projects.

Its a fair verdict and yet bad news for PPP infra projects because a badly drafted contract allowed Ambanis Reliance Infrastructure Limited to win the arbitration award. Other projects built on this model are now under a pall of uncertainty.
TEL AVIVFor six months, Israels military has won battle after battle against Hamas. But as the fight loses momentum and postconflict plans fail to gel, Israel is facing the prospect of losing the war.

The invasion of the Gaza Strip is stalling. Most Israeli troops have gone home. And Hamas is returning to areas that previously had been cleared of militants.

International pressure and the challenges of taking on fighters burrowed into a civilian population have combined to impede efforts to root Hamas out of the enclaves refugee-packed south.

That has frustrated Israels central publicly stated war aim: to kill Hamass leaders and destroy the radical Islamist militant group as a military and political force.

Some military and political leaders blame Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus failure to promulgate a plan for postwar Gaza, saying that it left a political vacuum that the radical Islamist group is exploiting to rebuild its influence in the strip.

Israels military is growing increasingly frustrated about the governments indecision. Without a political plan for Gaza, tactical wins wont add up to any lasting strategic gain, say current and former senior officers and soldiers who spent months in hard urban combat.

As someone who has seen these battles, we won the battle," said Noam Ohana, a reservist with Israels 98th Division who fought in Khan Younis, the biggest city in southern Gaza. You can choose to not reap the fruits of your military victory and then you will have a political problem."

Israels invasion of Gaza followed Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel, which killed more than 1,200 people, including over 300 soldiers, according to Israeli authorities. Israels response has killed more than 33,000 people in Gaza, most of them noncombatants, according to Palestinian health authorities.

The lengthy war and its mounting humanitarian toll have strained Israels relationship with the U.S. Many people in Israel fear the U.S. relationship could be irreversibly damaged by the war, a loss for Israels security outweighing the benefits of the fighting.

Publicly, Israels military says the campaign is a major success, albeit a work in progress. Israeli forces have killed thousands of Hamas militants and destroyed many of their rockets, tunnels and other infrastructure, Israel says.

Privately, however, many officers and ordinary soldiers worry about the prospect of their tactical successes against Hamas being squandered by political indecision.

To eliminate Hamas, you need to create an alternative as a governing body in Gaza. Theres a general understanding across Israels military and security services that this is not a problem that can be solved militarily," said Ofer Fridman, a former Israeli officer and war-studies scholar at Kings College London.

Netanyahu said on Sunday that Israeli forces are racking up achievements in the fight against Hamas. We are one step away from victory," he said at the start of a cabinet meeting.

An adviser to Netanyahu on Thursday repeated the message, saying there were many unprecedented achievements on the battlefield."

The country is fully united behind the objectives of the war," he said.

Israeli Brig. Gen. Dan Goldfus, commander of the 98th Division, made a rare public criticism of Israels political leaders last month when he called on them to unite and be worthy of the soldiers" fighting and dying in Gaza. You must make sure we do not return to Oct. 6, that all the effort and sacrifice wont be in vain," said Goldfus. He was given an official reprimand for straying into politics.

Many of his troops agreed with him, however. Reservists who returned from Gaza recently said frustration about the lack of a plan to consolidate their tactical gains into a lasting strategic victory was increasing weekly.

A captain who fought in Khan Younis said that early in the war, his troops knew why they were fighting. But as time went on, more began to wonder what the purpose of it all was. I dont have answers to give my soldiers," he said.

Other reservists said there was frustration about the failure to free the more than 120 remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza or kill top Hamas leaders such as Yahya Sinwar, two of the wars stated aims.

Israels central war aimregime changeis something that is never easy to accomplish, said Tamir Hayman, head of the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv and an adviser to Israels defense minister. The U.S. didnt fully achieve regime change in either Iraq or Afghanistan, he said.

Israel has made it even harder by destroying Hamass power without knowing what to replace it with, Hayman said. You need to work simultaneously on destruction and rebuilding" a new regime, he said.

Israel has been most successful at suppressing and scattering Hamass military formations in most of Gaza. But even that task has stalled at the gates of Rafah, the city on Gazas southern border, where Hamass battalions remain intactand where about 1.5 million Palestinian civilians are sheltering.

Netanyahu has for weeks vowed to take Rafah, saying his goal of total victory" requires it. He recently said a date has been set, but not when it is. Yet a ground assault on Rafah cant happen any time soon, senior military figures say.

Israel is struggling to find a way to move the swollen refugee population to somewhere else in the heavily destroyed enclave. The U.S., Israels indispensable ally, is opposed to a major ground assault on Rafah, saying it would cause unacceptable civilian deaths.

The standoff over Rafah has added to the tensions between Netanyahu and the Biden administration. Washingtons patience with Israel has been further stretched by the killing of seven workers from the U.S.-based nonprofit group World Central Kitchenan incident Israels military said was a mistake.

A rift with the U.S. could have consequences reaching far beyond Gaza, potentially encouraging Iran in the bigger regional confrontation with Israel, said Jonathan Conricus, a former Israeli officer who was a military spokesman early in the war.

Meanwhile, Hamas is filtering back into more areas of Gaza that Israeli forces have vacated after they earlier cleared out the militants in heavy urban fighting. The Israelis have fought to suppress Hamas in some neighborhoods repeatedly, for example at the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City.

Israel has reduced its troop presence in the strip to one brigade, down from over 20 brigades and more than 60,000 troops late last year, to let soldiers recover and relieve the burden on Israels economy.

Despite achieving near-total tactical mastery over Hamas in firefights, Israels military has been unable to stamp out an elusive enemy, find Sinwar or rescue the hostages.

Israel says it has killed around 13,000 militants and dismantled 20 of Hamass 24 battalions. U.S. and Egyptian intelligence services believe the number of Hamas fighters killed is lower.

Hamas, which had around 30,000 fighters before the war, is also able to recruit new members among Gazas large population of young males, say experts on the radical Islamist group.

Hamas is adapting to Israels campaign, mostly avoiding large firefights, hiding and waiting for Israeli forces to move on. Then Hamas tries to re-establish its presence and power, intimidating the local population and exploiting the lack of any other authority.

The militants started reappearing in Gaza City in the enclaves north in January, when Israeli forces pulled out after conquering the city last year. The pattern is repeating itself in Khan Younis where Israels 98th Division fought a lengthy battle before withdrawing.

Israels defense ministry is strongly opposed to a full military occupation of the strip, which would offer Hamas a target for a grinding insurgency. Israeli troops occupied Gaza from 1967 onward but pulled out in 2005.

The U.S., major Arab countries and much of Israels security establishment see only one realistic alternative: involving the Palestinian secular nationalist party Fatah, which runs the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.

But Netanyahu has adamantly rejected any role for the group, which is anathema to the premier and to far-right members of his fragile governing coalition.

Many in Israel argue that the war isnt going well for Hamas either. By any measure, the groups fighters have been mauled, and have proved no match for Israels military, even in dense urban battlegrounds that favor guerrilla tactics.

Israel has rendered Hamas unable to mount another attack such as Oct. 7 and shown its enemies around the Middle East that they will pay a high price for attacking it, said Amos Yadlin, a former head of Israeli military intelligence.

Had the government focused on those more manageable goals, it could claim success, he said.

I cannot say that Israel failed strategically, but I can say definitely it hasnt achieved its ambitious goals of dismantling and destroying Hamas or bringing back hostages," said Yadlin. Given the damage inflicted on Hamas, its some kind of a tie," he said.

But sacrificing thousands of fighters is a price that Sinwar is willing to pay, say many close observers of the group.

Its true that Hamas has been battered and bloodied, but they anticipated that," said Hussein Ibish, a scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, a think tank in Washington.

Ibish said Israels goal of showing the region that it will strike back hard when attacked isnt much of an accomplishment. Nobody doubted that," he said. I dont think it has restored the sense of security and inviolability in the Israeli public."

Sinwar has told interlocutors that his goal in triggering the war was to bring the Palestinian national cause back to the forefrontand that he succeeded.

Many analysts say his aim was also to put Hamas at the head of that cause. Hamass hide-and-wait tactics show that its immediate war aim is to outlast Israels best efforts to crush it, then declare victory, say many analysts.

For an insurgency to win, the only thing they need is to survive until the other side is exhausted and leaves," said Kings Colleges Fridman.

Anat Peled contributed to this article.

Write to Marcus Walker at Marcus.Walker@wsj.com and Shayndi Raice at Shayndi.Raice@wsj.com
Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Mathura constituency candidate Hema Malini gained online criticism after posing with farmers as a part of her election campaign.

The filmstar-turned politician took to social media X and captioned, Today I went into the farms to interact with the farmers who I have been meeting regularly these 10 years. They loved having me in their midst and insisted I pose with them which I did.

Meanwhile, her post has sparked numerous memes and jokes. Responding to her recent post, a commenter referred to the movie Sholay, stating, You must be reminiscing about Ramgarh.

Another one wrote, Kanjivaram silk, open hair in mid April? Shouldnt you fire your PR agency.

Social media user reacts to Hema Malini's post with farmers during her election campaign.

Kya time pass hai! How many times have u been there without a chopper? Have some shame! U dont deserve to be even contesting, replied a user.

A user claimed, Election is a picnic for Hema ji!

Furthermore, a user wrote, Madam, first tell me, do you have a bunch of mint or coriander in your hand?

It is to be further noted that this isn't the first instance of her being photographed in the fields, holding wheat sacks and a sickle. Earlier, in 2019, similar images surfaced, leading to criticism labelling it as election drama.

Some users resurfaced her old pictures from the 2019 election campaign and wrote, And these were just before the 2019 election. Apne toh apne hote hain. Feeling so emotional right now.

Another user wrote, Truth: you insisted them to pose ignoring their resistance, it's clearly visible on their faces.

Another user penned, Never saw you interacting with farmers who protested.

Hema Malini is fielded by the BJP for the third consecutive time from the Mathura Lok Sabha seat.

Uttar Pradesh, which contributes the highest number of MPs (80) to Parliament, will vote across all seven phases. Phases one and two are scheduled for April 19 and April 26, followed by phases three and four on May 7 and May 13. The state will then proceed with phases five, six, and seven on May 20, May 23, and June 1, respectively.
Lok Sabha elections 2024: In a scathing attack, Union Minister and Amethi MP Smriti Irani slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday, April 12. She criticized him for ignoring the people of Amethi and questioned his commitment to the constituency.

The BJP leader said, You all must have seen that Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination and declared in writing that Wayanad is his family. It was okay till there. Then we heard from a leader of Karnataka that Rahul Gandhi said the people of Wayanad are more loyal.

Irani further alleged that for 15 years (the people of Amethi) carried a useless MP who did no work and remained missing even after winning. Now he is blaming the loyalty of Amethi. You all were also supportive. Now will he clarify what Amethi is for him if Wayanad is his home? I have seen people changing colour. This is the first time I have seen Rahul Gandhi changing his family.

In 2014, Rahul Gandhi won the Amethi seat, his third time, defeating Smriti Irani. Gandhi had bagged 46.72% of the total votes, while Irani got 34.39%. However, the tables turned in 2019 when Smriti Irani won the Congress bastion with 49.71% votes, and Gandhi managed 43.86%.

Following this, the BJP announced Irani's candidacy for re-election in Amethi. In contrast, the Congress chose the Kerala's Wayanad seat for Gandhi. In Wayanad, Gandhi finds himself engaged in a three-way battle, with his primary opponent being CPI's Annie Raja. Additionally, the BJP has named its state chief K Surendran as a contender.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha elections 2024. The elections will happen across seven phases, starting on April 19 and concluding on June 1. Amethi is slated to vote during Phase 5 on May 20.

Vote counting is scheduled for June 4.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Misa Bharti on Friday took a U-turn from her jail remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She clarified that her statement meant the corrupt will go to jail. However, the RJD leader said on April 11 that PM Modi would be in jail if the NDA were voted out of power from the Centre.

...I said that the corrupt will go to jail. My statement should not be twisted. The media should not set the agenda of the country; let politicians set the agenda, whether they are in power or in the opposition, Bharti told media persons.

On Sunday, Misa Bharti said if the INDIA bloc comes to power after the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, from PM Modi to BJP leaders, they will be behind bars.

She said, We are talking about the implementation of MSP, and he (PM Modi) sees appeasement in that. He always accuses our family of corruption whenever he arrives here (Bihar). If the people of this country give the INDIA alliance a chance (to form the government), then

Her remarks sparked a political debate, with the BJP leaders slamming the two-time Rajya Sabha MP. Misa Bharti is making her father's (Lalu Prasad Yadav) 'pratigya' laughable, the saffron party leaders said.

BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad warned her not to make such statements, alleging that her family is completely immersed in corruption.

What has happened to Misa Bharti? The woman's father (Lalu Yadav) has been convicted in the fodder scam. I warn her not to make such statements. Your family is immersed in corruption. You need to stop daydreaming, he said.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has fielded Lalu Prasad Yadav's eldest daughter, Misa Bharti, from the Patliputra Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar. She will contest against BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav, who defeated her in the last elections.

Bihar will go to polls in seven phases of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, starting 19 April. Bihar sends 40 members to the Lok Sabha.
Shashi Tharoor, a Congress MP and candidate from Thiruvananthapuram seat in Kerala, on Friday said "it's not surprising" that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has "turned out as a strong player" in the Lok Sabha seat.

In an interview with news agency ANI, Tharoor said that in the past two elections, the BJP had emerged as the second party in his opinion. In the first election that I fought in 2009, I took the seat from the Communists...but thereafter, the BJP has come second.

"It's not a surprise that they have turned out to be a strong player. The Communist campaign has been lacklustre...whereas the BJP has moved into the second position in this constituency," he said.

The Congress MP went on to say that he believes the BJP may be ahead of the Communists this time around.

"It [BJP] is taking this race seriously. Frankly, it is BJP's strongest seat in Kerala. So if they have any hope at all, it is here We are also batting with equal vehemence and confidence," he added.

'BJP candidate here is facing a real perception battle' The BJP has fielded Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar as its Lok Sabha election candidate from Thiruvananthapuram  a stronghold of Congress' Shashi Tharoor.

Tharoor said the BJP candidate "here [Thiruvananthapuram] is facing a real perception battle because of the affidavit." He alleged that "the BJP candidate's affidavit shows that he is a billionaire who is paying less taxes than the taxi drivers".

"So in Kerala, we pay our taxes, we don't like to see this kind of things...so he has got a different kind of challenge quite beyond the Hindutva issue and communal baggage," Tharoor told ANI.

The Congress had earlier moved the Election Commission, complaining that there was a mismatch between the actual assets of Chandrasekhar and those that he had declared in his election affidavit.

According to the affidavit filed along with the nomination papers, Chandrasekhar's total income shown in the 2022-23 Income Tax return is 5,59,200,

 680 for the year 2021-22.  Avani Bansal (@bansalavani) April 5, 2024 ">while it was680 for the year 2021-22.

Presenting what he stated were "facts" of the matter, Chandrasekhar posted on X: "I have ONLY been in public life for several years and my income is derived ONLY from MP/minister salary, perks, and interest/dividend from savings/investments."

"In the year 2021-2022, my taxable income was sharply reduced because of partnership (in his businesses) losses incurred during the Covid period," he said.

BJP hit the ceiling in Kerala, broke 3 promises Tharoor agrees that the saffron party has boosted its clout in Kerala, of late. In Kerala, the BJP went in the last 35 years from being a 2-3 per cent party to 12-13 per cent party. That's the ceiling for communal messaging. You can't grow beyond that with that kind of message.

The Congress leader was reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Muslim League remark on the Congress' manifesto.

Tharoor added that the BJP's track record in Kerala and Thiruvananthapuram is very poor. The party made three promises in Kerala and broke all of them, he noted.

"The BJP promised three things in Kerala  AIIMS, National University of Ayurveda and National University of Disability Studies  but broke all three promises. All we can say is  Modi ki guarantee hai that whatever promises they make in Kerala they will break," he added.
Over the past several weeks, Charlotte Behrendt, a top Times editor in charge of probing workplace issues in the newsroom, has summoned close to 20 employees for interviews to determine whether staffers leaked confidential information related to Gaza war coverage to another media outlet.

It is the latest internal crisis at the Times, where management has been at odds with factions of the newsroom over union negotiations and coverage of sensitive topics like the transgender community and social justice.

Reporting about the Gaza war has been a particular flashpoint, especially over an in-depth article that found Hamas weaponized sexual violence in the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel. Some staffers questioned the reporting behind it and alleged that the suffering of Gazans isnt getting the same attention. Times leaders in March said they stand by the reporting.

The internal probe was meant to find out who leaked information related to a planned podcast episode about that article. But its intensity and scope suggests the Timess leadership, after years of fights with its workforce over a variety of issues involving journalistic integrity, is sending a signal: Enough.

The idea that someone dips into that process in the middle, and finds something that they considered might be interesting or damaging to the story under way, and then provides that to people outside, felt to me and my colleagues like a breakdown in the sort of trust and collaboration thats necessary in the editorial process," Executive Editor Joe Kahn said in an interview. I havent seen that happen before."

The Times is the envy of much of the news-publishing world, with more than 10 million paying subscribers and a growing portfolio of products like cooking and games apps. But while its business hums along, the Timess culture has been under strain.

In many ways, it is a story familiar to companies big and small across America, as bosses struggle to integrate a new generation of workers with different expectations of how their jobs and personal lives should meshand whose evolving social values can sow discord in the workplace.

But these tensions have particular resonance at the Times, which has long prided itself as a standard-setter in American journalism. Newsroom leaders, concerned that some Times journalists are compromising their neutrality and applying ideological purity tests to coverage decisions, are seeking to draw a line.

Kahn noted that the organization has added a lot of digital-savvy workers who are skilled in areas like data analytics, design and product engineering but who werent trained in independent journalism. He also suggested that colleges arent preparing new hires to be tolerant of dissenting views.

Young adults who are coming up through the education system are less accustomed to this sort of open debate, this sort of robust exchange of views around issues they feel strongly about than may have been the case in the past," he said, adding that the onus is on the Times to instill values like independence in its employees.

Kahn said he welcomes the normal push and pull of any newsroomjournalists challenging each others assumptions and debating whether coverage is fair.

But he said opposition to the Hamas sexual-violence article, penned in late December by veteran correspondent Jeffrey Gettleman and two freelancers, crossed a line when confidential Times work-product was allegedly shared outside the newsroom.

Details about staffers pre-publication debates were revealed in an article published by nonprofit news organization the Intercept that said the podcast episode was shelved.

Some Times staffers said the probe was justified. But others said management is going too far. Behrendt, a lawyer by training whose official title is director of policy and internal investigations, asked for the names of participants in a chat group for Middle Eastern and North African Times employees and asked some staffers to name others who had discussed concerns about the Gettleman story, people familiar with the interview sessions said. At least one session lasted longer than an hour.

One staffer complained about the Gettleman piece in a letter to the Standards department, an official channel for raising internal concerns about the Times journalism. Behrendt, who had obtained the letter from another source, later called the author in for questioning. In the interview, she asked if anyone else helped her write the letter, and for her communications with a worker on the Daily" podcast.

Stacy Cowley, a business reporter and Times union officer who sat in on a few interviews to represent staffers, said the Times is targeting employees who have been struggling to get the company to listen to their concerns about war-related coverage.

Instead of taking them seriously, the company is turning around and bullying that group into silence," she said. The union has filed a grievance alleging that the company was targeting a group of staffers of Arab and Middle Eastern descent. Times leaders said the allegations are false.

Strong passions

Coverage of the Israel-Hamas war has become particularly fraught at the Times, with some reporters saying the Timess work is tilting in favor of Israel and others pushing back forcefully, say people familiar with the situation. That has led to dueling charges of bias and journalistic malpractice among reporters and editors, forcing management to referee disputes.

Just like our readers at the moment, there are really really strong passions about that issue and not that much willingness to really explore the perspectives of people who are on the other side of that divide," Kahn said, adding that its hard work for staffers to put their commitment to the journalism often ahead of their own personal views."

Last fall, Times staffers covering the war got into a heated dispute in a WhatsApp group chat over the publications reporting on Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza, which Israel alleged was a command-and-control center for Hamas.

As Israel advanced on the hospital, doctors there were disputing Israels claims that it was coordinating the evacuation of premature babies. When a Times reporter in the chat questioned whether information coming from the doctors could be trusted, another shot back: Are you conflating every doctor at Shifa with Hamas?"

The first reporter called the response an old trick" meant to attribute to a skeptic some shade of racism or chauvinism" to put him on the defensive."

International editor Philip Pan later intervened, saying the WhatsApp threadat its worst a tense forum where the questions and comments can feel accusatory"should be for sharing information, not for hosting debates, according to messages reviewed by the Journal.

We need to do a better job communicating with each other as we report the news, so our discussions are more productive and our disagreements less distracting," he wrote in the chat.

Some Times veterans said criticism of the publications workfrom external sources or colleaguescan be healthy. We should be open to criticism, think about what it means for our coverage, without allowing our independence to be compromised," said Peter Baker, chief White House correspondent at the Times, in an interview. Finding that happy middle space is a huge challenge, particularly in this era of polarization and social media and very loud discourse."

The Times isnt the only news organization where employees have become more vocal in complaints about coverage and workplace practices. War coverage has also fueled tensions at The Wall Street Journal, with some reporters in meetings and internal chat groups complaining that coverage is skewedeither favoring Israel or Palestinians.

At the Times, the intensity and sometimes-public nature of the sparring has forced management to intervene.

The companys leaders in February deleted critical comments by Times staffers in the internal communication platform Slack about a trans-related opinion piece by Times opinion columnist Pamela Paul, for example, saying the company doesnt allow criticism of colleagues or their work in large forums.

Trust team

Despite the cultural turmoil, the Timess business keeps growing. The company signed up 300,000 subscribers in the most recent quarter. A weak spot lately has been the online ad market, one reason shares in the Times are down 9% this year after rising 36% in 2023.

The publisher of the Times, 43-year-old A.G. Sulzberger, says readers trust is at risk, however. Some journalists, including at the Times, are criticizing journalistic traditions like impartiality, while embracing a different model of journalism, one guided by personal perspective and animated by personal conviction," Sulzberger wrote in a 12,000-word essay last year in Columbia Journalism Review.

Sulzberger greenlighted a trust team," a group focused on efforts to improve reader confidence in its reporting. The group is behind features such as disclosures that explain why the Times uses anonymous sources and videos of reporters discussing their work.

Despite such moves, NewsGuard, an organization that rates credibility of news sites, in February reduced the Timess score from the maximum of 100 to 87.5, saying it doesnt have a clear enough delineation between news and opinion. Our standards and processes are among the most robust and rigorous of any news organization in the country," said a Times spokeswoman. Nothing has changed in how we label our news and opinion coverage."

Seed of activism

The current dynamics at the Times stretch back to 2020, when a seed of employee activism took root in the aftermath of George Floyds killing. In June of that year, the staff staged a rebellion after the publication of an op-ed piece by Republican senator Tom Cotton, Send In The Troops," that suggested the U.S. military should quell riots. Some staffers said it made them feel unsafe.

Within days the Times had parted ways with Editorial Page Editor James Bennet. In a recent account of those events in the Economist, Bennet said Sulzberger supported the decision to publish it, and said he was forced to resign. Sulzberger has said he disputes Bennets narrative.

The company said it conducted a review after publishing the op-ed and found the piece itself and the series of decisions that led to its publication did not hold up to scrutiny," said a Times spokeswoman.

Emboldened by their show of strength on Bennet, employees would flex their muscles again on multiple occasions, pushing to oust colleagues they felt had engaged in journalistic or workplace misconduct.

In 2019, Donald G. McNeil Jr., a star science and health reporter, was investigated internally over allegations he had used racist language during a Times-sponsored trip to Peru for high-school students. Two years later, in a Medium post recalling the events, McNeil said he repeated the N-word while speaking to a student about a classmates use of the slur. Then-editor Dean Baquet told the staff that while McNeil showed extremely poor judgment" he was given a second chance because it did not appear to me that his intentions were hateful or malicious." After 150 staffers protested, the Times and McNeil ultimately parted ways.

Donald was reprimanded in 2019 and his eventual departure involved more than one issue," said a Times spokeswoman.

Employees were making their voice felt at the Times. At the same time, some editors and reporters were growing concerned that some Times journalists were letting their personal views dictate which stories to pursueor not pursue.

One way to counter that trend was with the creation of a new beat for reporter Michael Powell to cover issues around free speech and expression. Powell created the beat in coordination with then-Deputy Managing Editor Carolyn Ryan, who had been tasked with safeguarding independence in the newsroom.

One thing Powell noticed, he said, was that coverage that challenged popular political and cultural beliefs was being neglected. Powells work includes a story on MITs canceling of a lecture by an academic who had criticized affirmative action, and another examining whether the ACLU is more willing to defend the First Amendment rights of progressives than far-right groups.

We kind of both had a nagging sense that we needed to write in a much more systematic way about these third-rail issues, of identity, gender, speech," said Powell of his early conversations with Ryan. The fact that I had all this territory was not a good sign."

Kahn says it isnt up to only one reporter to do this kind of work. Its a commitment that only makes sense across all the beats in the newsroom," he said.

Powell left last year to join the Atlantic, and the Times recently appointed Jeremy Peters, who had been covering media politics, to the role.

Drawing a line

Management concerns about independence deepened in February of last year when some Times contributors and staff signed an open letter to the Timess standards editor laying out complaints about transgender coverage.

The letter, signed by over 1,000 Times contributors, including a small number of full-time staffers, criticized the characterization of trans people in the article, The Battle Over Gender Therapy," and the framing of the article When Students Change Gender Identity, and Parents Dont Know."

That same day, Glaad, a nonprofit LGBTQ advocacy organization, sent a similar letter protesting the coverage.

Kahn, who succeeded Baquet as executive editor in June 2022, and Opinion Editor Kathleen Kingsbury said in a letter to staff that they wouldnt tolerate participation by Times journalists in protests or attacks on colleagues.

Jazmine Hughes, a New York Times Magazine writer, who had signed the trans coverage petition and was warned not to do it again, left months later after signing another petition from the activist organization Writers Against the War on Gaza. Hughes resigned under pressure," she said in a statement at the time in a union newsletter.

Jake Silverstein, editor-in-chief of the Times magazine, described her actions as a clear violation of The Timess policy on public protest."

Divisions have formed in the newsroom over the role of the union that represents Times staffers, the NewsGuild-CWA. Some staffers say it has inappropriately inserted itself into debates with management, including over coverage of the trans community and the war.

While the Guild represents staffers across many major U.S. news outlets, its members also include employees from non-news advocacy organizations such as pro-Palestinian group Jewish Voice For Peace, Democratic Socialists of America and divisions of the ACLU.

When Times staffers logged on to a union virtual meeting last fall to discuss whether to call for a cease-fire in Gaza, some attendees from other organizations had virtual backgrounds displaying Palestinian flags. The meeting, where a variety of members were given around two minutes to share their views on the matter, felt like the kind of rally the Times policy prohibits, according to attendees.

Partly in response to such activities, some Times journalists launched an Independence Caucus" for journalists at the Times and other outlets.

Political project

When it comes to coverage of U.S. politics, the Times has sought to counter the perception that it has a liberal bias. After Donald Trump won the presidency, reporters from the national desk were sent to places where Trump proved popular, like Pittsburgh, Fort Smith, Ark., and eastern Iowa. The Times also held question-and-answer sessions with residents in some of those areas.

The remit was to do deep dives reflecting the points of views of people around the country on topics like immigration and trade, said Trip Gabriel, a reporter on the national desk at the time.

We were looking to better understand voters or Americans we may have overlooked but also to convince readers we were interested in those peoples points of views and people should read the Times in those places," said Gabriel, whos currently writing obituaries for the Times.

Kahn said the Times national desk now is bigger and more equipped to cover an unprecedented election. The Times will also be more committed to covering misinformation in the 2024 election, with a team of eight to nine people, he said.

In January, Sulzberger shared his thoughts on covering Trump during a visit to the Washington bureau. It was imperative to keep Trump coverage emotion-free, he told staffers, according to people who attended. He referenced the Times story, Why a Second Trump Presidency May Be More Radical Than His First," by Charlie Savage, Jonathan Swan and Maggie Haberman, as a good example of fact-based and fair coverage.

Kahn defended the focus the Times, like other outlets, has given to President Bidens age, despite some concerns from staffers and outsiders.

What you do is you pursue every story, you follow the facts and you give readers the information they need to make intelligent decisions," he said.

Write to Alexandra Bruell at alexandra.bruell@wsj.com

View Full Image New York Times Bosses Seek to Quash Rebellion in the Newsroom

View Full Image New York Times Bosses Seek to Quash Rebellion in the Newsroom

View Full Image New York Times Bosses Seek to Quash Rebellion in the Newsroom

View Full Image New York Times Bosses Seek to Quash Rebellion in the Newsroom
Phil Jordans 12-year-old rescue dog Daisy struggled with a stiff right rear hip. When the new arthritis drug Librela became available, Jordan and his wife decided to try it.

About two weeks after the first injection in January, however, Daisy wobbled on both hips and limped. A week after her second dose, the dog couldnt walk, became lethargic and lost her appetite. She gained back some mobility, but her kidney function plunged. In March, the Jordan family euthanized their dog.

Theres a tremendous amount of guilt that we feel," said Jordan, an economist from Wrentham, Mass.

Librela and a similar treatment for cats were the first antibody drugs for pets approved by the Food and Drug Administration. They promised to relieve a painful arthritis in animals and become an important new franchise for maker Zoetis, the worlds largest animal-health company by sales.

Now they are at the center of a medical mystery. Some pet owners blame the drugs for sickening their animals, some of which then died. Was it the drugs? Were they being used the wrong way? Or were other illnesses afflicting the pets at fault?

Health regulators in the U.S. and Europewhich have received thousands of reports of side effectsare conducting reviews. Some veterinarians are refining use of Librela and the cat therapy Solensia. Wall Street analysts have asked Zoetis about the pet owners complaints.

Zoetis says the medicines are safe, with reports of side effects representing well less than 1% of the more than 18 million shots of both drugs combined administered to date in the U.S. and abroad. Many veterinarians and pet owners have also reported success with the drugs. Neither the company nor arthritis and animal-health researchers know of a link between the drugs and the reported side effects.

In both human health, animal health, theres no drug thats risk-free. When those reports come in, of course we take them very seriously," said Rob Polzer, Zoetiss research-and-development chief.

Animal-health researchers and veterinarians say more study is needed to determine whether the drug might be at fault, possibly by exacerbating an underlying nerve condition or other diseases. The problem could also be older animals other medical issues.

Veterinarians may want to make sure they are giving the drugs only to pets matching the profile of the animals studied during testing to reduce the risks, the animal experts say.

Veterinarians have given a drug without doing complete work-ups and examinations under the guise that it cant do any harm when, in fact, it can do harm," said Dr. Darryl Millis, a professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.

Librela and Solensia went on sale in the U.S. in 2023 and 2022, respectively, aiming for a piece of the $45 billion-plus animal-health market.

Librela and Solensia had $124 million in global sales last quarter. Zoetis, which had $8.5 billion in revenue last year, has described the franchise to investors as its Next Big Opportunity" and projected yearly sales could surpass $1 billion.

The drugs belong to a class targeting a protein, called nerve growth factor, that plays a key role in signaling pain. Researchers have found the protein at elevated levels in animals with arthritis. After blocking it, the pets would feel less pain and enjoy a better quality of life, according to Zoetis.

Pharmaceutical companies had been working on such drugs for use in people, before dropping the experimental medicines due to safety concerns.

Zoetis says it developed Librela and Solensia specifically for dogs and catsthey arent the same as the drugs that had been tested in peopleand researchers didnt find the same safety issues that had doomed the human treatments.

Common side effects reported during testing of Librela included urinary tract infections, lethargy and increased blood urea nitrogen, a sign of problems with kidney function. For Solensia, the most common side effects were vomiting and diarrhea.

Cassie Stovers 16-year-old cat Max appeared lethargic, wobbled his head and was barely able to move after getting a Solensia injection for suspected arthritis in December, she said. The issues lasted for two months. The cats kidneys eventually failed. He died a day before he was scheduled to be euthanized in February, said Stover, 35, of OFallon, Mo.

The FDA received more than 3,800 reports of side effects concerning the drugs through the end of last year. The European Medicines Agency has received more than 12,300 reports of side effects involving Librela and more than 7,700 for Solensia since 2021, when the drugs went on sale in Europe. The figures include reports from the U.S. and other countries outside of the European Union.

Pamela Boyd, a 34-year-old part-time veterinary technician in San Marcos, Texas, said her dog struggled to walk, became weak and anxious and had a fever for three days after his first Librela injection in January.

A joint tap after the dog received the injection showed the animal had an immune response, called immune-mediated polyarthritis, that makes it difficult to walk and causes joint swelling.

It was not good at all," said Boyd, who put down her dog Soren last week. Nothing Ive ever seen from him before." Boyd started an online petition to recall Librela for further testing that has more than 3,800 signatures.

Dr. Leilani Alvarez, senior veterinarian at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City, said many dogs that she has given Librela to have improved significantly, while others showed side effects. One dog with a neurological condition lost energy and was less eager to move, while another couldnt walk. Both dogs improved after stopping injections. She reported the events to Zoetis.

Meanwhile, Alvarez said she wouldnt give Librela to dogs with conditions like neurological issues, cancer, immune diseases or kidney problems.

Dr. Duncan Lascelles, a professor of translational pain research and management at North Carolina State Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine who helped Zoetis design Solensia studies, recommends prescribing the drug to dogs matching the criteria used in the trial. The trials didnt include dogs with neurological conditions or lameness unrelated to osteoarthritis.

Sometimes with the latest thing thats new and shiny everyone wants it to be this perfect therapeutic in all situations. Thats just not going to happen," Lascelles said. I dont know what cases theyre not right for. Thats something we learn over time."

Coulter Jones contributed to this article.

Write to Jennifer Calfas at jennifer.calfas@wsj.com

View Full Image What Killed Their Pets? Owners Blame Meds, but Vets Arent Sure

View Full Image What Killed Their Pets? Owners Blame Meds, but Vets Arent Sure

View Full Image What Killed Their Pets? Owners Blame Meds, but Vets Arent Sure
OpenAI has released a new update to ChatGPT, which is touted to make the generative AI chatbot more direct, less verbose and use more conversational language. Notably, the new upgrade is only available to paid users of ChatGPT, including those with ChatGPT Plus, Team, Enterprise or API subscriptions.

Informing about the latest upgrade in a post on X (formerly Twitter), OpenAI wrote: Our new GPT-4 Turbo is now available to paid ChatGPT users. Weve improved capabilities in writing, math, logical reasoning, and coding"

The company also stated that the GPT-4 Turbo update will lead to ChatGPT responses becoming more direct, less verbose, and use more conversational language."

Moreover, ChatGPT with GPT-4 Turbo has been trained on data up to April 2024, a major upgrade over its previous iteration which was only updated till April 2023.

The latest update comes on the heels of OpenAI making the GPT-4 with Vision API generally available to developer accounts. The company said the new API will help streamline workflows and create more efficient applications.

OpenAI reportedly fires two employees for leaking information:

Meanwhile, a recent report by The Information has revealed that OpenAI has fired two of its researchers for allegedly leaking information. The two employees: Leopold Aschenbrenner and Pavel Izmailov - were reportedly asked to leave the startup following an internal investigation.

The Information report notes that while it's not clear what information was leaked, there have been a number of internal strikes and grievances within OpenAI. Notably, Aschenbrenner worked on a team tasked with keeping artificial intelligence safe for society and was an ally of chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, who was closely involved in the failed coup attempt at OpenAI last year.

In other news, a recent Reuters report revealed that Sam Altman hosted hundreds of Fortune 500 executives in San Francisco and London to pitch his company's AI services for corporate use.

Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world  Click here to know more.

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Galaxy AI and Circle to Search were a major selling point during the launch of the Galaxy S24 series earier this year. Last month, the Korean smartphone maker decided to bring these features to bring Galaxy AI to its 2023 flagship devices like the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip. However, Samsung now looks set to add these major features to its even older flagship phones including the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S22 as soon as next month.

According to a report by 9to5Google citing a forum post by a Samsung employee, Samsung will add Galaxy AI features to its entire 2022 and 2021 flagship lineups as soon as next month. The much-awaited feature will reportedly be rolled out to these devices with the One UI 6.1 update in early May.

Notably, since the post only mentions flagship devices other Samsung devices like the Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy Tab 8 FE and others will not be eligible for the update. Moreover, the 2022 flagship devices getting the OneUI 6.1 update will only be given all the AI features and it is reported to get Galaxy S23 FE level AI", meaning that certain features like Instant Slow-Mo will not be available on older devices.

List of devices getting Galaxy AI:

Galaxy S22

Galaxy S22+

Galaxy S22 Ultra

Galaxy Z Fold 4

Galaxy Z Flip 4

Galaxy Tab S8

Galaxy Tab S8+

Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra

Galaxy S21

Galaxy S21+

Galaxy S21 Ultra

Galaxy Z Fold 3

Galaxy Z Flip 3

Galaxy AI now supports more dialects:

In other news, Samsung also recently announced that it is adding support for 3 new dialects in Galaxy AI namely Australian Engliish, Cantonese and Canadian English. The company also plans to add support for four more languages later this year: Romanian, Turkish, Dutch, traditional Chinese and Swedish

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The end of the US led New World Order is being led by China.

BRICS is growing as the US and Europe fail to force the world into submission. The Swift Banking system and the USD will be high on the list to replace by the new group, Crypto and Blockchain will be at the centre of that new system.

Americas domination and abuse of global banking and the USD has always been one of the driving forces behind the Crypto movement. Systems like KXCOs Armature are already built to manage cross border payments, banking and currency.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and leaders from Arab states and GCC countries on Friday gathered in Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia, to continue developing bilateral friendliness, chart the course for building a China-Arab community with a shared future and further advance pragmatic cooperation.

Xis ongoing trip, which includes attendance of the first China-Arab States Summit and the China-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, marks great progress in China-Arab relations in terms of mechanism-building as well as a concrete cooperation agenda, observers said.

They held the belief that closer ties between China and the Arab world not only result in contact between two types of civilizations, but will also bring strong impetus to the high-quality development of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and enhance mutual trust and support, which are conducive to regional security and prosperity in a turbulent world facing challenges of geopolitical tensions and economic downturn.

Xi on Friday hailed the first China-Arab States Summit as a milestone in their relations when delivering a speech at the summit.

Xi said at the China-GCC summit that China and states of the GCC are natural partners for cooperation and called on the two sides to be partners in promoting unity, development, security and civilizations.

Xi also proposed five major areas for cooperation in the next three to five years, including energy, finance and investment, innovation and new technologies, as well as aerospace, and language and cultures.

Xi said China will continue to import more crude oil and liquefied natural gas from GCC countries and strengthen co- operation in oil and gas development as well as in clean and low-carbon energy technologies. He also called on the two sides to carry out oil and gas trade settlement in RMB.

Unprecedented dialogue

Liu Zhongmin, a professor at the Middle East Studies Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, hailed the summits, both of which convened for the first time, as an unprecedented step in leveling up the mechanism of bilateral communication.

The meeting of heads of state will chart the major course of bilateral relations, under which topics ranging from development and prosperity, consolidating consensus of regional and international hot-button issues to the building of a China-Arab community with a shared future can be fully discussed and the consensus can be implemented well, Liu continued.

Xis latest trip was described by Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the largest and highest-level diplomatic event between China and the Arab world since the founding of the Peoples Republic of China and an epoch-making milestone in the history of China-Arab relations.

Arab states high expectations for the events were seen from the high-level diplomatic protocols and whirlwind of bilateral meetings their leaders held with Xi on the sidelines of the multilateral summits.

Ebrahim Hashem, a UAE strategist and former adviser to the chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office, which is responsible for Abu Dhabis long-term strategies, told the Global Times that the Arab-China summit is the most important dialogue in the history of Arab-China relations to date, which will help shape the direction of Arab-China relations for at least the next five to 10 years.

One of the major impressions the Global Times reporters in Riyadh received from remarks by media workers and scholars in Riyadh was their recognition of mutual respect and non-interference.

Hashem noted that mutual trust and respect between the two sides are rapidly growing, driven by similarity in their world views and future visions.

According to Yahya Mahmoud bin Junaid, chairman of the Riyadh-based Center for Research and Intercommunication Knowledge, China does not interfere in the affairs of others and does not impose its values and traditions; therefore, it is welcomed in Arab countries.

Nadia Helmy, an expert in Chinese political affairs and professor of political science at Beni Suef University in Egypt, told the Global Times that China has not taken a biased position in the fierce regional competition in the Middle East. On the other hand, its BRI encourages regional countries to establish partnerships with China, and achieve win-win results.

Chinese analysts noted that the strategic similarities and mutual trust between China and the Arab world laid the foundation for the two sides to not only carry out cooperation in trade and investment, but also increasingly join hands on regional and global governance.

Chinas global development and security initiatives were viewed by Arabs as positive contributions to stabilizing and improving the world system. Regional observers increasingly believe that China can add positive impetus and balance to regional stability and security.

Saudi Arabia, the host of the summits, and some other regional countries, are highly interested in joining China-led multilateral frameworks, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS plus, proposed in 2017.

At present, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have become new dialogue partners of the SCO, and Bahrain, UAE and Kuwait are slated to become dialogue partners.

In May, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi chaired the Video Dialogue of Foreign Ministers between BRICS and Emerging Markets and Developing Countries. Many Arab countries participated in the meeting and some have expressed their positive willingness to join the BRICS, Chinese ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chen Weiqing told the Global Times in Riyadh.

Cooperation highlights

In his signed article on Saudi media, Xi noted China-Arab relations have entered a new era and registered a series of landmark and groundbreaking achievements in various areas in the past decade.

Collectively, China has established a future-oriented strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development with all Arab states. Individually, China has established a comprehensive strategic partnership or strategic partnership with 12 Arab states, and signed documents on Belt and Road cooperation with 20 Arab states. Among Arab countries, 17 have expressed support for the Global Development Initiative (GDI), 15 have become members of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and 14 have participated in the China-League of Arab States Cooperation Initiative on Data Security, Xi wrote.

As for the GGC, two-way trade exceeded $230 billion in 2021, and Chinas imports of crude oil from GCC countries have topped 200 million tons, Xinhua reported.

Observers particularly stressed the substantial fruits of cooperation yielded through the BRI, including in traditional areas such as production capacity, infrastructure development, investment and finance.

Song Wei, a professor from the institute of international relations at Beijing Foreign Studies University, also pointed to new areas of cooperation in high-tech sectors including 5G communications, new energy, space and digital economy.

Song cited projects including the China-Arab clean energy training center, the Chinese-Egyptian Renewable Energy Laboratory, the forum on Chinese and Arab states cooperation on the use and adoption of the Chinese global navigation satellite system (GNSS), and the China-Arab States BDS/GNSS Center in Tunisia.

Chinese 5G telecommunication firms have important market shares in countries including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman and Bahrain. Saudi also inked a memorandum of understanding with Chinese tech giant Huawei on cloud computing and building high-tech complexes.

Analysts also mentioned that China plans to hold the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation next year to give a new boost to development and prosperity in Asia-Pacific and the wider world, and the Arab states will have an important role in making the forum a success, which means the two sides could discuss relevant arrangements in Riyadh.

Liu Zhongmin noted that the Arab states are experiencing great internal changes on a par with the huge changes in regional geopolitics, and China has proven to be an ideal and trustworthy partner when regional countries are seeking growth and development.

Chinas modernization has provided cooperation opportunities for some Arab states to realize collective prosperity, while some less developed countries could draw inspiration from Chinas path of poverty alleviation, analysts said.

Arab countries are clear about where their own interests lie and are actively diversifying their partnership. Stable and long-term markets, emerging communication fields are among areas that attract them to cooperate with China, Liu emphasized.
China Unveils National Supercomputing Network to Drive Digital Innovation

Here are some key highlights of the national supercomputing network:

Collaborative Innovation: The platform serves as an opportunity to drive collaborative innovation across multiple domains, including hardware, algorithms, applications, and system architecture. Leading experts, including computer scientist Qian Depei, who is an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, are actively involved in shaping the networks future. Service Providers: Over 200 service providers have joined the network, contributing more than 3,200 cutting-edge products. These offerings span a wide range of applications, from scientific computing and industrial simulation to AI model training. Digital Economy Support: As China continues to embrace digital transformation, the national supercomputing network plays a crucial role in supporting the digital economy. Its robust infrastructure will enhance research capabilities, accelerate innovation, and drive economic growth.

With the official opening of its national supercomputing network, China has achieved a major technological milestone in its technological advancements. Held in the Tianjin Municipality of north China, the inauguration ceremony signaled the start of a new age in computing capability.

The networks main goal is to balance the supply and demand of computer power while offering vital assistance for the growth of the digital economy. Under the direction of Qian Depei, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and computer scientist, the platform seeks to leverage AIs potential to promote collaborative innovation in a range of computing domains.

Qian Depei emphasized that the network will serve as a catalyst for advancements in hardware, algorithms, applications, and systems within the computing field. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the platform seeks to unlock new opportunities and foster synergy among industry players.

With more than 200 service providers offering a wide variety of apps, data, and computing models, the networks inclusivity is one of its primary strengths. These contributions include more than 3,200 products, including state-of-the-art digital technologies like AI model training, industrial simulation, and scientific computing.

The Ministry of Science and Technology declared in April 2023 that work on building the national supercomputing network had begun. Since then, a lot of work has gone into building a solid infrastructure that can adapt to the changing demands of the digital world.

The establishment of the national supercomputing network is an important milestone in Chinas quest to become a global leader in innovation and digital transformation, as the country continues to place a high priority on technical advancement.

Chinas digital economy has emerged as a powerhouse, reshaping industries, driving innovation, and propelling the nation toward unprecedented growth. Lets delve into the key facets of this dynamic landscape.

The Scale of Chinas Digital Economy

In recent years, Chinas digital economy has experienced robust growth. By 2022, it had reached a staggering 50.2 trillion yuan (approximately 7.09 trillion U.S. dollars), ranking second globally. This impressive figure accounts for 41.5% of Chinas GDP.

Three Driving Forces

Several factors contribute to Chinas digital ascendancy:

Market Size and Youthful Demographics: Chinas vast population, particularly its digitally savvy youth, fuels rapid commercialization of digital business models. With 731 million Internet users in 2016more than the European Union and the United States combinedChina provides an ideal testing ground for innovation. Nearly one in five Chinese Internet users rely on mobile devices exclusively, compared to just 5% in the United States. This enthusiasm for digital tools accelerates adoption and fosters competitiveness. Ecosystem Building by BAT: The triumvirate of Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent (collectively known as BAT) has been instrumental in shaping Chinas digital landscape. These giants have systematically disrupted inefficient offline markets while setting new global standards in computing efficiency. Their multifaceted super apps now touch every aspect of consumers lives, offering services that have expanded sevenfold since 2011. Venture Capital Investment: BAT companies dominate venture-capital investment in China, accounting for 42% of all such investments in 2016. In contrast, Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Netflix together contributed only 5% of U.S. venture-capital investment. Chinas digital ecosystem thrives on this robust investment climate.

With over 40% of all e-commerce transactions worldwide, China has the largest e-commerce market in the world. This is a significant increase from less than 1% a decade ago.Furthermore, the transaction value of mobile payments in China surpasses that of US payments by an astounding 11 times. China has demonstrated its digital capability through the smooth adoption of digital payments in everyday life.

One in three of the 262 unicornsstartups valued at more than $1 billionin the world are based in China. These Chinese unicorns are valued at 43% of what similar companies are worth globally, indicating their influence on the worlds innovation scene. Their inventions include robots, artificial intelligence, 3-D printing, self-driving cars, and virtual reality.

Chinas digital economy is not merely about computational power; it symbolizes the nations unwavering commitment to innovation and progress. As China continues to lead in scientific breakthroughs, industrial advancements, and data-driven solutions, we anticipate exciting developments across sectorsfrom climate modeling to drug discovery.

In summary, Chinas digital economy stands as a testament to its vision, resilience, and ability to harness technology for the benefit of its people and the world.

Shayne Heffernan
#crypto #wealth #bitcoin #Knights #Knightsbridge

$BTC

Investors are paying close attention to their funds amid rising global economic turmoilPaul Ebeling

Takeaway

Choose to maintain custody of their own assets without middlemen Decide to hold on for the long term and cease trading

Crypto exchanges have order books hosting various price levels at which buyers and sellers look to transact each different digital asset.

If a large buyer or seller comes along and buys all the available offers in the order book close to any given assets market price, then that asset would likely move dramatically in price. To prevent such drastic price fluctuations, some entities offer OTC trading, which essentially allows large buyers and sellers to agree on a price and transact away from order books.

Several US-based outfits offer OTC crypto trading, including Coinbase and Gemini. Binance is another Malta-based crypto exchange that offers OTC trading.

Large crypto participants can also use OTC trading for any digital assets available on the exchange. OTC markets are big business in the crypto space.

The Knights Platform is an electronic network that links the trading floors of every relevant Crypto Exchange

Market participants, Brokers and market makers can take a price on any of the linked exchanges to find and execute the best price available. Eventually, as they are on boarded, a broker on the floor of one exchange could directly place an order through Knights rather than going through a broker on another exchange.

A tip of my hat to sovereign individuals with satoshis and Bitcoin in cold storage with our firm. Click here

Check Price Action

Editors Note: The market cycle is a naturally occurring phenomenon, attributable to human psychology, and has repeated itself time and time again, though with some variations, in the lives of nearly all market traded instruments. This cycle repeats itself to varying degrees but is fairly accurate in representing the shift between market sentiments of euphoria and pessimism, and an acknowledgment of this natural phenomenon is Key to profiting from any traded instrument, including Bitcoin. My work shows a return to the mean and then all-time highs in here. Tune out fear.

Have a prosperous day, the Chaos is over!
As the inaugural London conference continues into day two, attendees heard from industry experts on Reducing Risk & Improving Trust with Blockchain.

The London Blockchain Conference continued to captivate attendees with, yet another day filled with informative and thought-provoking speakers. The discussions revolved around crucial topics such as regulatory frameworks for Digital Currencies, enabling the growth of blockchain and Blockchain Venture Capital.

The theme for Day 2 was Reducing Risk & Improving Trust with Blockchain, with the ultimate objective of providing a roadmap for those looking to understand how their respective businesses could benefit from blockchain technology. Attendees were treated to a plethora of expert speakers from around the world who explored various issues impacting the enterprise and consumers, including regulatory frameworks for digital currency in Europe, the intersection of the trust economy and blockchain, leveraging blockchain for business continuity, reduced reputational risk through cybersecurity solutions and much more.

Yves Mersch, Former Executive Board of the European Central Bank & Former Governor of the Central Bank of Luxembourg, provided expert knowledge on regulatory frameworks in the EU and the facilitation of blockchain and digital currency growth. Dr Agata Slater, Blockchain Strategy Consultant at IBM, delved into the trust economy and blockchain. Bryan Daugherty, the Global Public Policy Director at the Bitcoin Association, shed light on blockchain cybersecurity solutions.

Among the other esteemed speakers were Giovanni Franzese, the Global Head of Enterprise Blockchain Execution at Ericsson; Farid Haque, a Blockchain VC from Systema Nova; Justin Pauly, the President of VX Technologies; Angus Brown, the CEO of Minit Money; and Greg Ward, the Chief Development Officer of Smart Ledger.

Day 2 featured several noteworthy moments among which was a panel discussion titled, Its time for Regulation to Enable the Growth of Blockchain and Digital Currency. The panellists included actor and author Ben McKenzie, Yves Mersch and Bryan Daugherty, with Marcin Zarakowski, Executive Committee Member, Bitcoin Association serving as moderator. The discussion delved into topics such as the regulatory frameworks of digital currency, the role governments play and what the digital Euro & digital Pound means to the government, for regulation and blockchain adoption.

Ben McKenzie said, The classification of Bitcoin as a commodity raises significant concerns, as it creates a gray area that can be exploited for potential fraud. This issue demands immediate attention to prevent its recurrence, which is explored in my book Easy Money. While the solution may be challenging due to engrained political solutions, establishing an oversight body is imperative. We must closely monitor the development of blockchain and eagerly anticipate its future progress. Its important to recognize that blockchain is an underlying technology predating cryptocurrency.

Another panel discussion titled, Digital Asset Recovery  Freezing and seizing lost and stolen Digital Assets included panellists like Dr Agata Slater, Steve Smid, Project Manager, TrueWorld, Justin Pauly and Kirsty Barany-Gibson, Scale Facilitation  Access New York (Program Lead) and moderated by Becky Liggero, Reporter, Producer & Host, CoinGeek. The discussion revolved around topics like establishing two-way trust based on reputation and digital identity to enable Peer2Peer (P2P) transactions and understanding evolving customer expectations and how to leverage your business.

In continuation, another panel discussion titled, Digital Asset Recovery  Freezing and seizing lost and stolen Digital Assets, with panellists like Marcin Zarakowski, Roman Bieda, Head of Fraud Investigations at Coinfirm, Daniel Payne, President of Blockade United, Lavinia Osbourne, Founder, Women in Blockchain Talks and Brian Sanya Mondoh, Barrister and Attorney at Law & PhD Researcher, BlockchainLex. The discussion, moderated by Connor Murray, CEO & Co-Founder, of Britevue, centred around aspects such as the pro-regulation and pro-government stance of Bitcoin, the application of the law to Bitcoin and how Bitcoin can support legal enforcement efforts.

The event also included a Block Dojo showcase session, hosted by Alex Ball, Co-Founder & Programme Director of Block Dojo. The session highlighted the achievements of four companies that have successfully emerged from the Dojo incubator programme within the past 18 months. During this showcase, the founders, namely Charles Symons, CEO & Co-Founder of Buzzmint, Hannah Nicholson, CEO & Founder of MoveGenius, Tim Malik, CEO & Founder of CombatIQ, and Arsim Shillova, CEO & Founder of Libraro, shared their experiences of being part of the incubator and provided insights into their journey beyond the intensive 12-week program.

Dr Craig Wright, Chief Science Officer at nChain delivered another insightful session on the topic, Unlocking Privacy and Compliance: Adopting a Time-Managed Redactable Signature System. He shed light on solving the challenge of balancing transparency and privacy in governments and corporations and how the blockchain infrastructure provides benefits such as immutability, decentralization, and transparency.

Attendees also witnessed an exclusive opportunity to participate in an engaging Ask Me Anything (AMA) session with Dr Wright. This AMA session was a rare occasion to interact directly with one of the foremost experts in the blockchain industry.

The United Kingdom continues to be a leading force in the world of blockchain, solidifying its position as a top blockchain incubator and company powerhouse. With its vibrant ecosystem, innovative spirit, and supportive regulatory framework, the UK has become a beacon of opportunity for blockchain start-ups and established enterprises alike. Its commitment to fostering innovation, coupled with its robust ecosystem, positions the UK at the forefront of the global blockchain revolution.

If you would like to attend or listen to any of the session this week, please register here using PROMO CODE: LBCMEDIA23.
The Idaho Supreme Court has ruled against Babe Vote and the League of Women Voters in their challenge of some of Idahos voter identification laws.

The voter advocacy groups filed the lawsuit against Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane over laws passed in 2023 that prohibit the use of student IDs to register to vote and as proof of identification at the polls, and that added requirements for proving residency to register to vote. They argued the laws make it too difficult for some groups of people to vote, thus denying them a fundamental right.

An Ada County District Court judge dismissed the case in October, arguing the new laws were not unduly burdensome. The groups appealed, and the state Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously affirmed the district court decision.

Here, voter identification procedures, including the acceptable forms of identification, clearly fall within the broad ambit of the legislatures constitutional power to enact qualifications and conditions on the right of suffrage, Justice Robyn Brody wrote in an opinion released Thursday.

The groups challenge of HB 124 argued that by removing student IDs as a valid form of voter identification at the polls, it was disenfranchising young people. The court wrote that because the law didnt remove the ability to vote using a signed affidavit in lieu of photo identification, the law didnt substantially restrict access to the polls for anyone.

HB 340, the other law passed last year, creates a list of ways to show valid Idaho residency and requires the Idaho Transportation Department to provide a free voter ID to those who have not had any valid drivers license within six months. The attorneys for the plaintiffs alleged this left out college students from out of state or others who recently moved to Idaho.

The court ruled that although the law will impose a burden to some, it doesnt rise to the level of denying the right to vote. Brody cited a U.S. Supreme Court decision that found that every voting rule imposes a burden of some sort, and said the Legislature acted within its authority to try to protect election integrity and security.
Pittsburg Landing boat launch and campground to be limited

WHITE BIRD  The Pittsburg Landing boat launch and campground will have limited access from 5 p.m. May 5 to May 8.

The area will be chip sealed from the cattle guard to the edge of the boat launch. One lane of the ramp will remain open during the work but the campground will be closed. Access to the entire area will be restored following the project.

Bighorn numbers on the rise along Middle Fork of Salmon River

BOISE  The number of bighorn sheep living along the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area is on the rise, according to a recent survey.

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game reports that a survey conducted this year shows the population grew compared to a survey conducted in 2017. Biologists counted 1,123 bighorns in hunt areas 20A, 26, 27-1, 27-2, 27-3 and 27-4, including 578 ewes, 198 lambs and 347 rams. They recorded a promising ratio of 34 lambs per 100 ewes. Of the rams counted, 163 were classified as mature.

The Middle Fork bighorn population suffered a major die-off in the early 1990s and was believed to be ailing from a low lamb-to-ewe ratio related to chronic disease, according to a Fish and Game news release.

However, the news release notes this years survey used a different method than the one carried out in 2017. The older survey was conducted at the same time biologists were counting deer and elk in the area. This year, the biologists were only looking for bighorn sheep.
A second clutch of eggs have been laid by the Berry College Eagles. After eggs laid in the first clutch collapsed, the community is rooting for these two new eggs to hatch eaglets!
The community of Longford came together in St Mel's Cathedral on Monday morning to say goodbye to the late Sarah McNally.

Members of the public joined with the McNally and O'Connor families for a moving and poignant service celebrating the life of a young woman who died in tragic circumstances.

Sarah (41) was stabbed to death in the Ceili House Bar in the Mespeth area of Queens a little over a week ago. Her funeral mass of the resurrection took place last Monday (April 8) at 11am.

In his homily to the congregation celebrant Fr Michael McGrath said: Where is God in this mess and how in faith do we deal with it?

Fr McGrath said: We must thank God for the gift of Sarah.

He described the Longford town native as a vivacious, lively girl who loved her loud, souped up cars.

Fr McGrath said Ms McNally's friends said she could have invented online shopping before it came to be a thing: In her short life span of 41 years she left behind a trail of light. We now thank God for Sarah.

Also read: Longford remembers victim of New York stabbing, Sarah McNally as 'a vivacious and wonderful young woman'

The priest said Sarah's death is a blunt reminder that we are all fragile and that life is a fleeting gift.

Educated at St Emer's national school and Mean Scoil Mhuire in Longford town, Sarah worked in Valentine's public house, Main Street, Longford where she was very well liked.

She later joined The Irish Prison Service in Longford for some years before deciding on immigrating to New York.

She enjoyed music and in her younger years she appeared on stage in a number of musical productions with St Mel's Musical Society.

Sarah's funeral mass was streamed live from St Mel's Cathedral.

Hundreds of people came together in Sarahs home town to participate in the funeral mass.

Music for the solemn ceremony included beautiful renditions of John Lennon's 'Imagine', Thin Lizzy's 'Sarah', 'The Parting Glass', and concluded with 'Nothing Compares To You'.

In recalling up her friend Aine Wade (nee Heavey) said: How do you sum up Sarah McNally? You can't, she was larger than life, someone special, made for great things.

She spoke of Sarah's close bond with her parents and the impact of her death on the entire family, adding: She was well known for beauty, kindness and personality.

Aine spoke of her friend's talents: Not only the looks, but the brains as well, she said, she had endless potential.

Also read: Longford soldiers return from last United Nations mission to Syria

Addressing the gathering Eddie Valentine, who Sarah called her Uncle Ed, said: On behalf of Dorrie, Des and the O'Connor and McNally family I want to thank a number of people.

He expressed gratitude for the assistance of the NY Police Department, The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, EMTs and a number of Longford people in New York who reached out, helped and supported the family at the difficult time.

Mr Valentine concluded by saying: We loved you dearly, and we always will. Until we meet again, rest in peace Sarah.

Also read: $140,000 raised in memory of Longford man who died in USA to be presented to Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust

The previous day people came from across Ireland to pay their respects to Sarah when she lay in repose at Glennon's Funeral Home.

Her parents, Dorrie and Des, received a steady stream of mourners during Sunday's wake, which concluded with prayers at 8pm.

Sarah was cremated in a private ceremony following the requiem mass. Her funeral comes just days after her boyfriend Marcin Pieciak (36) was formally charged with her murder.

Authorities claim Mr Pieciak stabbed Ms McNally in the bar after she indicated that she wanted to end their relationship.

Also read: Upset Longford parents deeply concerned over future of paediatric diabetes service
An animal welfare inspector discovered a rotting cow, pregnant dogs without food or water and lambs trying to suckle on a dead ewe in a trailer on a farm in the Midlands.

John Dempsey of Strahard, Mountmellick, has been banned from keeping cats or dogs for five years following his appearance at Portlaoise District Court.

He admitted causing unnecessary suffering to four dogs and four pups, failing to provide access to food and clean water for the animals and permitting carcasses to be on land which a dog may access on July 28, 2022.

Defence Solicitor Michael Keane described his client as an old school bachelor farmer, a label rejected by the Judge and an animal welfare inspector.

Pictured above conditions at the farm. Credit: ISPCA

Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals(ISPCA) Inspector James McCormack gave evidence of attending a farm in Mountmellick on July 28, 2022. He said the defendant wasnt present on the day.

He entered a shed where he discovered two King Charles Spaniels, which he suspected were both pregnant, in a filthy state. He said one of the dogs had open sores on its back.

Mr McCormack moved on to a trailer where he found a female terrier and four pups. There was faeces in the trailer and no water, he explained.

At this point, Mr McCormack said the defendant arrived back and began wailing and shouting and telling him to leave the farm. He had taken the two pregnant dogs and the four puppies into his van at this point but was in fear of the defendant and rang gardai.

Mr McCormack said the defendant banged on his window and attempted to open a locked door of his van. The defendant then reversed his jeep up against a shed door.

When the gardai arrived he was able to remove the female terrier. He then checked the shed the defendant had reversed up to. It contained a male King Charles spaniel which had been left without food or water. He inspected the rest of the yard and found a semi decomposed cow with a rope tied around its leg.

The head was skull but the rest of the body was just bloated, he said. He said there was an old collie dog loose in the yard.

There was a pile of offal in the yard covered in blue bottles, Mr McCormack told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court.

He said he returned on five separate occasions over the next month but never got to speak to the defendant. During the visits he served an animal health and welfare notice.

He also returned on January 1, 2023 and found a collie in the yard, a german shepherd in a stable building. In a dark shed he found a hen with up to a dozen chicks and no water. He observed a dog in the house as well as two cats. He seized the german shepherd. When he went to leave, a padlock had been placed on the gate, he said.

Mr McCormack revealed he had visited the farm again ahead on Friday, April 5 ahead of the court hearing and discovered two dogs loose on the property.

There was a dead sheep in a trailer with two lambs, he said. The sheep had been dead for three or four days, he said. Generally, conditions were awful, there was slurry everywhere, he remarked.

The two lambs were in the trailer trying to suckle off the dead sheep, said Mr McCormack.

Defence solicitor Michael Keane said his client would always have dogs at the property. He said the man had left school at twelve and worked on the farm with his brother. Unfortunately his brother was killed in very unfortunate circumstances, he said.

Mr Dempsey would be, I suppose, an old school bachelor farmer living on his own in fairly difficult conditions, he said. He asked Mr McCormack if he agreed with this assertion.

Mr McCormack said in his view old school bachelor farmers can be good or bad farmers.

Mr Keane said his client would have had a lot of stock and farmed several hundred acres. He said he has two farm hands who help him. It is not what you would call a puppy farm, he said.

I have evidence of puppies being bred there and sold, said Mr McCormack.

Mr Keane said his client should have brought the dead animals to the knackery. He asked that his client be allowed to keep his two dogs.

With the current year nobody could get slurry out with the weather, he said.

William Maher BL asked Mr McCormack if he believed animals should be at the farm.

I dont think there should be any animals on the property, he responded.

Mr McCormack said the Department of Agriculture have got involved in relation to the farm animals.

Mr Keane said his client was a man who paid no attention to any notices that would be issued to him. He again described his client as an old school bachelor farmer.

Judge Nicola Andrews said I think you are insulting every old school bachelor farmer out there.

Mr Keane accepted that it was the obligation of farmers to look after their animals. He said his client was in the process of disposing of stock and that he lived in difficult conditions.

I accept the evidence of the Inspector without question, he said.

He said his client only had two dogs which he described as a working dog and a pet. He is not a cruel man, he said.

Judge Andrews said the man was given the opportunity to comply but had ignored the notices. Judge Andrews imposed a three month suspended sentence and she banned the man from owning cats or dogs for five years.

She cited the deplorable state that these animals were found in as she imposed a 2,500 fine and awarded costs of 3233.16 to the prosecution. She fixed recognisance in case of appeal.
A 24 year old woman required immediate resuscitation after presenting at University Maternity Hospital Limerick (UMHL) due to a ruptured ectopic pregnancy (EP) two weeks after having a medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) .

An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilised egg implants itself outside of the womb, usually in one of the fallopian tubes

The case report featured in the March 2024 edition of the Official Journal of the Irish Medical Organisation, where the authors  obstetricians and gynaecologists  said that it provided insights into a serious and life-threatening event i.e maternal collapse due to a ruptured ectopic pregnancy after MTOP.

The case report elucidates the association between induced abortion and EP and highlights MTOP as a risk factor for EP.

The paper is entitled 'Medical Termination of Pregnancy  an Emerging Risk for Maternal Mortality'.

In the case, the woman was brought to UMHL by ambulance with right lower abdominal pain and hypovolemic shock  an emergency condition in which severe blood or other fluid loss makes the heart unable to pump enough blood to the body, which can cause many organs to stop working.

She was also hemodynamically unstable  suffering abnormal blood pressure  and required immediate resuscitation.

The woman in question had taken abortion pills under the care of her GP two weeks previously.

The report makes a reference that EP is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, and that healthcare providers ideally should be able to diagnose and exclude women with ectopic pregnancy before a medical termination of pregnancy.

At the end of the report there is a recommendation that asymptomatic women with certain red flag risk factors for EP get a diagnosis of IUP (an intrauterine pregnancy) before a medical termination.

The red flags include previous ectopic pregnancies, IUCD users and previous pelvic abscesses.

However, the medics also noted in the case report that their patient in this case had no risk factors for EP.

The report cites a reference that EP is uncommon among women presenting for abortion.

The full paper is available to read on www.imj.ie
Nature & Weather, Crime, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases

By Long Island Published: April 12 2024

New York Attorney General Letitia James, alongside the Pine Barrens Commission, reaches a settlement with Affa Organics for illegal land destruction in Long Island's Pine Barrens, imposing a $100,000 penalty and mandating full site restoration ...

New York Attorney General Letitia James and the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission (Pine Barrens Commission) Executive Director Judith Jakobsen today announceda settlement with Stephen Affatato and his company Affa Organics, Inc. (Affa Organics), a landscaping supply business, for illegally removing trees and vegetation from the Pine Barrens, protected land on Long Island. The Pine Barrens are located on top of Long Islands largest source of drinking water, and their preservation is necessary to ensure residents access to clean water. Affatato destroyed acres of this land by bulldozing and excavating soil, cutting down trees, and clearing natural ground cover, harming the Pine Barrens delicate ecosystem. As a result of this agreement, Affatato will pay a civil penalty of $100,000, and is required to fully restore the site. Affatato will be required to pay an additional $200,000 if he fails to complete the site restoration.

Long Islands Pine Barrens are among New Yorks most precious natural resources, and their protection is paramount to the health of Long Islands drinking water and our shared environment, said Attorney General James. Stephen Affatato ignored the law and destroyed protected land for his own benefit, and now he must repair the damage and restore the area. I want to thank the Pine Barrens Commission for their continued partnership in protecting this critical natural resource on Long Island and ensuring it is preserved for generations to come.

One of the most important aspects of our work at the Central Pine Barrens Commission is protecting lands preserved by municipalities with taxpayer dollars so all Suffolk residents as well as visitors can fully appreciate all the region has to offer, said Pine Barrens Commission Executive Director Jakobsen. The tremendous efforts of Attorney General James and her office to bring this case to a close demonstrates that she is fully on board with this priority, and for that, we cannot thank her enough.

The Long Island Central Pine Barrens is a 106,000-acre natural area in Suffolk County that is home to some of New Yorks greatest ecological diversity, including many endangered or threatened animal and plant species. In 1993, New York adopted the Long Island Pine Barrens Protection Act, which established the Pine Barrens Commission to safeguard the Pine Barrens and develop and oversee a comprehensive land use plan for the area. This plan designated 55,000 acres of the Pine Barrens as a core preservation area and specified that any entity seeking to engage in development activities such as clearing, excavation, or construction in the area must apply for and receive a waiver from the Pine Barrens Commission.

In October 2012, Affatato and his company, Affa Organics, destroyed conserved property in the Pine Barrens that did not belong to him. Affatato did not obtain a waiver before removing trees, vegetation, and natural ground cover, and excavating and bulldozing soil into huge piles the property. These violations were observed by Pine Barrens Commission staff on a site visit to the property.

This agreement resolves ongoing litigation regarding the clean-up and restoration of the site. As a result of the agreement, Affatato will implement and pay for a complete site restoration plan, including soil excavation, deer fencing, site grading, replanting of native plant species, sediment and erosion control, and monitoring and reporting, among other requirements. Affatato will also pay a civil penalty of $100,000 and provide $200,000 in the form of a bond or other financial security that must be paid if Affatato fails to follow or complete the site restoration plan.

Attorney General James and Executive Director Jakobsen would like to thank the Town of Brookhaven, which issued a Notice of Violation in 2012 and was instrumental throughout the case.

Suffolk Countys Pine Barrens ensure the drinking water for its 1.5 million residents, said State Senator Monica R. Martinez. I hope this agreement will send a ripple through the notion that these vast lands can be defiled without consequence. Thank you, Attorney General James, for holding those who threaten our water supply and our natural resources by impugning the integrity of the Pine Barrens, accountable.

Nearly 30 years ago, I helped shape the Pine Barrens Protection Act, pledging to safeguard Long Island's Pine Barrens, said Assemblymember Fred W. Thiele, Jr. Today's settlement underscores the commitment to holding accountable those who harm our environment and preserving our natural resources.

We should all be grateful that Attorney General Letitia James has wisely used her discretion to protect Suffolks sole source of drinking water, said Suffolk County Legislator Steven Engelbright. Her actions to prevent the criminal despoliation of the Pine Barrens are a necessary and timely warning to all who would destroy the ancient trees that stand as sentinels guarding our purest ground water source area.

This matter was handled for the Pine Barrens Commission by Executive Director Judith Jakobsen, Science and Stewardship Program Manager Polly Weigand, and Counsel John Milazzo.

This matter was handled for OAG by Assistant Attorney General Mihir A. Desai and Section Chief Elizabeth Morgan of the Environmental Protection Bureau under the supervision of Bureau Chief Lemuel M. Srolovic. The Environmental Protection Bureau is part of the Division for Social Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
Crime, Business & Finance, Health & Wellness, Press Releases

By Long Island Published: April 12 2024

New York Attorney General Letitia James secures $650,000 in penalties and over $400,000 in refunds from Northwell Health for misleading COVID-19 testing billing practices, wherein patients were wrongly charged emergency room fees for tests at ...

New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that her office secured $650,000 in penalties and more than $400,000 in refunds from Northwell Health, New Yorks largest health care network, for misleading New Yorkers seeking COVID-19 testing during the height of the pandemic. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that Northwell Health deceptively advertised three of its emergency departments in New York City and on Long Island as COVID-19 testing sites where New Yorkers could simply get a COVID-19 test, but then billed patients for emergency room visits. As a result of todays agreement, Northwell Health has issued over $400,000 in refunds to 2,048 patients, must pay a $650,000 penalty, and must notify future patients seeking COVID-19 testing at emergency rooms that they will be billed for emergency department charges.

During a time of great stress at the height of the pandemic, Northwell Health caused more worry and frustration for New Yorkers who were sent emergency room bills for simply taking a COVID-19 test, said Attorney General James. Today we are putting money back in New Yorkers pockets after Northwell Health misled them. New York patients should not get surprise fees, and I encourage anyone who thinks theyve been taken advantage of through deceptive advertising to file a complaint with my office.

The OAG launched an investigation into Northwell Health following complaints from New Yorkers that they were receiving bills for emergency department visits after they took a COVID-19 test. The OAG investigation found that three Northwell Health locations with emergency departments, Lenox Hill Hospital, Lenox Health Greenwich, and Huntington Hospital, posted signs between March 2020 and March 2021 advertising emergency departments as COVID-19 testing locations. Despite only receiving a COVID-19 test, thousands of individuals who visited one of these three locations were billed standard emergency room charges. The OAG found that even patients who took a COVID-19 test at Huntington Hospitals drive-through location were billed for emergency room visits.

While state and federal laws prohibited health plans from charging any type of cost sharing for COVID-19 tests and related services, OAG found that Northwell Health collected $81,761.46 in out-of-pocket payments from 559 New Yorkers for COVID-19 tests and related services received at emergency departments. Other New Yorkers who visited the ER for other reasons were also charged for COVID-19 tests that were administered.

As a result of OAGs investigation and agreement, Northwell Health issued $400,164.29 in refunds to 2,048 patients. In addition, Northwell Health must pay $650,000 in penalties to the state.

If a patient believes they have been a victim of misleading billing practices, they should contact the OAG Health Care Bureau online or call 1-800-428-9071.

This investigation and settlement were co-led by former Assistant Attorney General Jason Meizlish of the Consumer Frauds & Protection Bureau under the supervision of Bureau Chief Jane M. Azia and Deputy Bureau Chief Laura J. Levine, and Deputy Bureau Chief Leslieann Cachola of the Health Care Bureau, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Darsana Srinivasan. Data Scientist Anushua Choudhury and Acting Deputy Director Gautam Sisodia of the Research and Analytics Department and Assistant Attorney General Christian Reigstad of the Consumer Frauds & Protection Bureau also assisted in this matter. The Bureau of Consumer Frauds and Protection is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris DAngelo. The Health Care Bureau is part of the Division for Social Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux. Both divisions are overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: April 12 2024

Award-winning Elmont Model UN program and its founder, Lee Marcus, were honored on the floor of the Assembly to mark the programs 45th anniversary.

Coming off successful performances at Princeton and UC Berkeleys Model United Nations conferences, the Elmont Memorial High School Model United Nations team and the founder of the program, Mr. Lee Marcus, joined Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages in Albany to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Elmont Model United Nations. The team and Mr. Marcus were recognized on the New York State Assembly floor and in the New York State Senate. The group was also given a tour of the State Capitol building.

Lee Marcus was the inaugural advisor to the original team formed in 1978. A retired social studies teacher at Elmont Memorial, former New Hyde Park Social Studies Chairperson, and former Sewanhaka District Coordinator of Social Studies, Mr. Marcus was instrumental in making Elmont Model UN a world-renowned program.

The 2023-2024 Elmont Model UN team carries on the legacy of success begun under Mr. Marcus leadership, winning four awards this past fall at Princetons Model United Nations Conference and seven committee awards last month at UC Berkeleys conference. This year also marks 30 years of the annual Lee Marcus Sewanhaka Intra-District Model UN Conference and the 20th anniversary of the Lee Marcus Model UN program at all elementary schools in the Elmont School District.
A long-delayed bill on mobilization passed its second and final reading by the Ukrainian parliament on Tuesday. Although Kyiv punted on the contentious issue of demobilizing troops currently in service, the legislation can help Ukraine address its pressing shortage of manpower. But Kyivs delay in passing the law, coupled with shortfalls in Western ammunition supplies, has given Russia an opportunity to make gains. Ukraine will now have to mobilize aggressively to hold the Russians at bay.

Ukraines Manpower Shortage

When Russia invaded in February 2022, the Ukrainian military received more volunteers than it could handle. But as the conflict dragged on, Kyiv largely exhausted its pool of volunteers. Ukraine is now struggling to mobilize enough troops. Recruitment officers have resorted to issuing summonses on the street and chasing down draft dodgers.

Many Ukrainian units are severely understrength. This is particularly true for infantry units, forcing Ukraine to reassign personnel from other specialties. The manpower shortfall means that while soldiers may receive brief vacations, Kyiv cannot conduct long-term force rotation or demobilization. Many troops have been fighting for over two years, resulting in exhaustion and sinking morale. Some soldiers report having to man frontline positions for over a week at a time with no break. No matter how much help we get, how many weapons we have  we lack people, Ukraines Ground Forces commander said on Monday.

The Russian military also experienced a serious manpower shortage during the wars first year. But Russia is now in a more comfortable position, thanks in part to its larger population. After Ukrainian forces tore through sparsely manned Russian lines in Kharkiv Oblast in September 2022, Moscow began mobilizing later that month. This belated decision allowed Russia to stabilize its lines. While the Kremlin has since refrained from further forced mobilization, Moscow has proven surprisingly successful in recruiting volunteers. This has enabled Russia to replace losses, generate some additional combat power, and expend an enormous number of soldiers in meat assaults. Like Ukraine, however, Russia currently lacks enough troops to rotate forces.

Last December, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian military had proposed mobilizing 450,000 to 500,000 more men. This request reportedly was an issue of contention between Zelenskyy and his top general, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, prior to the latters ouster in February. In late March, Zaluzhnyis successor, Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, claimed the mobilization quota was significantly reduced thanks to an audit that had resulted in thousands of non-combat personnel being transferred to combat roles. Still, there is no escaping the fact that Ukraine needs to mobilize many thousands of additional troops.

In addition to the number of soldiers, an important issue is age. Ukraine has relied largely on older men to replenish its ranks. The average age of Ukrainian troops at the front is over 40 years old. (Russian volunteer and mobilized troops are often on the older side, too.) Kyiv has been reluctant to mobilize young men because the country already has relatively few of them. Losing more could jeopardize its economy and future. But older soldiers tend to be less physically suited to the rigors of battle. This is especially problematic for offensive operations, in which dismounted infantry often must travel multiple kilometers on foot.

The New Legislation

Despite its urgent manpower requirements, Kyiv dragged its feet in passing the mobilization law. The government submitted a first draft in December, only to withdraw it following political backlash. A revised version was submitted in late January and passed its first reading in February. But members of parliament proposed over 4,000 amendments, slowing the process down. Zelenskyy has seemed reluctant to throw his full political weight behind the legislation, at times distancing himself from its most controversial elements.

Although the new law does guarantee short-term leave, the parliament  at Syrskyis request  removed a provision that would have allowed troops to demobilize after 36 months. The Ukrainian government is now supposed to craft a separate bill tackling that issue. But it seems unlikely to move forward anytime soon given that the military clearly worries it cannot afford large-scale demobilization.

According to a February 2024 survey, the lack of a clear timeline for demobilization is a major deterrent to prospective troops. It makes Ukrainians less willing to volunteer and more likely to dodge the draft, compounding the manpower shortage that prevents demobilization in the first place. In the new legislation, Kyiv refrained from imposing criminal penalties on draft dodgers.

Concerns about insufficient training may also undermine the mobilization effort. As the February 2024 survey indicated, reports about troops being sent to the front after just weeks or even days of training have fueled draft dodging. In fact, respondents ranked this issue as the second-biggest deterrent to mobilization, right behind insufficient material support. A previous draft of the new law required two to three months of training for mobilized troops. The updated version appears to have dropped that requirement, although the final text has not yet been made public.

The new law does, however, grant troops who sign contracts with the Ukrainian Defense Ministry the right to pick which units they join. In addition, the latest version removed a controversial provision that would have allowed people to be exempted from the draft if they or their employer paid a levy. The law will also require all men aged 18 to 60 to update their military registration data and carry related documentation, facilitating mobilization.

Critically, under the new legislation and another law that Zelenskyy signed last week, Ukraine is lowering the minimum age for mobilization from 27 to 25 years old. The new age floor, while still remarkably high, is politically controversial. Zelenskyy had sat on that other bill for 10 months. The president also signed separate legislation last week on establishing a digital register of mobilization-eligible men, passed by parliament in mid-January. Moscow took a similar step back in fall 2022.

Russias Window of Opportunity

Ukraines shortages of manpower and artillery shells have allowed Russian forces to make incremental gains in recent months, albeit at high cost. Kyivs delay in passing the mobilization bill has exacerbated these challenges. So, too, have the European Unions underwhelming ammunition deliveries and the U.S. Congresss refusal to pass aid funding.

The new law will take time to impact the battlefield. The bill will now go to the speaker for his signature and then to the presidents desk. After Zelenskyy signs it, the legislation will take one month to come into force. Training draftees and forming combat-ready units will take longer. As Zaluzhnyi has noted, Ukraines capacity to train reserves on [its] own territory is also limited. Many of the new soldiers will have to be trained under UK and EU programs, which together can train maybe 4,000 to 5,000 troops per month.

Most important, Kyiv must summon the political will to actually use its new authority to mobilize younger men. Whether it will do so remains to be seen.

Regarding ammunition, a Czech-led initiative to procure additional shells for Ukraine will help. So will the potential passage of the U.S. aid bill. Ukraines ongoing effort to construct fortified defensive lines, belatedly launched late last year, can further stiffen its defenses. And although Russia continues to recruit more men and form additional units, it has so far proven unable to regenerate force quality, undercutting its offensive potential.

In short, this year offers Russia its best chance to take more territory, assuming U.S. aid continues past the November election. But if both Kyiv and the West play their cards right, they can prevent major Russian advances.

John Hardie is the deputy director of FDDs Russia Program and a contributor to FDD's Long War Journal.
Harvard University, Tufts University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Massachusetts Amherst received failing grades in ADLs most recent campus antisemitism report card.

ADL produced this Report Card during a time of incredible volatility on college campuses. It takes the temperature at a moment in time and provides a roadmap for improving campus climate, the ADL wrote on its website.

Of the 85 universities or colleges rated, ADL assessed 10 institutions based in Massachusetts.

Those included: Amherst College (B), Boston University (C), Brandeis University (A), Harvard University (F), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (F), Northeastern University (C), Tufts University (F), University of Massachusetts Amherst (F), Wellesley College (D) and Williams College (C).

Brandeis University, which received an A grade, was only one of two institutions that received the grade out of 85 universities and colleges.

The report card included institutions that had the highest percentage of Jewish student populations and 60 of the colleges were selected by Hillels Top 60 Jewish colleges guide.

The top 30 national colleges and top 10 liberal arts colleges were also selected based on US News and World Report. Institutions that were almost entirely Jewish with little publicly available data on the student makeup were excluded from the 85 chosen.

Each of the colleges and universities were assessed based on 21 criteria which were broken down into three groups: administrative action and policies, incidents on campus, and Jewish student life on campus.

Additionally, a questionnaire was distributed on the campuses to allow the institutions to self-report; researchers gathered incident rates and high-profile investigations; a short survey by College Pulse sampled 160 Jewish college students to help weigh the ranked categories; and campus stakeholders such as campus Hillel and Chabad directors provided input.

The four Massachusetts institutions with failing grades had varied reasons for the poor assessment but each had a high or medium number of severe antisemitic and anti-Zionist incidents.

Some had hostile anti-Zionist student government activity and student groups, and all had many antisemitic speakers or programs on campus, according to the civil rights group.

Harvards and MITs presidents made headlines in December after joining a congressional hearing on campus antisemitism with the University of Pennsylvania president.

During the hearing, each president equivocated over a question about whether calls for genocide violated their code of conduct. Each said that those calls would depend on the context.

Harvard President Dr. Claudine Gay and University of Pennsylvania President Elizabeth Magill apologized and later resigned.

Dr. Sally Kornbluth, the president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, received support from the schools governing body following the hearing and still remains president.

The House Education and Workforce Committee launched an antisemitism investigation into MIT, and subpoenaed Harvard for its failure to produce priority documents related to the antisemitism investigation.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst also made its share of news after 56 students and one faculty member were arrested for trespassing at the school during an October pro-Palestine rally.

Another student was arrested in November after punching a Jewish student and spitting on an Israeli flag at a demonstration on campus Friday, the universitys center for Jewish life said.

In one instance at Tufts, accusations of antisemitism and Islamophobia spiraled during a student senate meeting.

The meeting was intended to discuss proposed resolutions regarding the Israel-Hamas war.

Three of the four resolutions were passed, including a resolution for the institution to divest from Israeli apartheid;, end the sale of Israeli products in dining; and a resolution that the president and administrative acknowledge the genocide in Gaza and apologize for previous statements they have made, according to the student group the Coalition for Palestinian Liberation at Tufts.

During the conversation, Jewish students were reportedly spat on, told to Go back to Israel, were told nobody wanted them at the institution, and were called names, Tufts Hillel director Rabbi Naftali Brawer wrote on social media.

The 85 institutions were in part assessed by a panel of experts varying from former college presidents to nonprofit leaders to Jewish student organization representatives.

Among those on the panel include Sally Mason, the former president of the University of Iowa; Dr. Jeffrey Kopstein, professor of political science and the director of the Center for Jewish Studies at the University of California, Irvine; Dr. William Brit Kirwan, Chancellor Emeritus of the University System of Maryland, and Libby Anderson, CEO at Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity.

Each of the institutions grades may be updated on a rolling basis based on additional information but an overall update, which includes expanding the number of institutions assessed, will be done on an annual basis.

If you are a current student or alum at one of the 85 colleges and universities on the report card, you are able to add your feedback by filling out a form.
The Boston City Council this week declared speeding cars a public health emergency, as the city reels from a trio of incidents where pedestrians were killed or seriously hurt when they were struck by cars.

The resolution adopted by councilors declares both speeding cars and reckless drivers a public health emergency and calls for infrastructure improvements throughout the city to address pedestrian safety. Councilors did so on the heels of the deaths of 4-year-old Gracie Gancheva in the Seaport and Fernando R. Pizarro, a 57-year-old wheelchair user, in South Boston.

Gancheva was killed on March 24. Pizarros death came just more than a week later on April 2. Pizarros death marked the fourth pedestrian death in the city in 2024. No criminal charges have been brought against the drivers in either death.

And on April 4, a pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries when they were hit by a truck near South Station. Officials have not provided an update on the pedestrians condition since the crash.

The resolution notes that the city had seven pedestrian fatalities in 2023, and 12 in 2022.

During a meeting earlier this month, each of the councils members recognized the need for action on pedestrian safety.

Councilor Benjamin Weber, who represents Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury, lamented the fact that it took tragedy to spur action on the part of city officials.

Its a terrible thing that it took two recent fatalities and the death of a 4-year-old for us to deal with this, he said. This should not be happening.
A 55-year-old woman was sentenced to six months in prison for failing to surrender to serve a prison sentence for another crime, and instead fleeing to the Dominican Republic, where she made regular trips to the beach, pool and social functions, acting U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Joshua S. Levys office announced Thursday.

Yris Sanchez, formerly of Boston, had already been sentenced to 15 months in prison for misuse of a passport in 2021. Her six-month sentence will run concurrent to her prior sentence, and she will be subject to deportation once she completes her sentences, Levys office said in a statement. Sanchez pleaded guilty to the charge of failing to appear to serve a federal sentence in December 2023.

Sanchezs first conviction came in May 2020, for misusing a passport, a crime she was sentenced to 15 months in prison for. Because her conviction came during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanches requested release on conditions and to self-report to serve her prison time, a request granted by the court. Then, after several extensions of her self-report date, Sanchez never arrived to surrender in June 2021, according to federal prosecutors.

Instead, prosecutors say, she spent 20 months living in the Dominican Republic where she posted various daily undertakings on Facebook, including trips to the beach, pool and social functions.

In July 2021, the court forfeited Sanchezs secured appearance bond and entered a further default judgment of $47,500 against Sanchez, Levys office said.
As communities across Massachusetts grapple with the housing crisis, Lynn, one of the poorest cities in the state, is trying hard to help its residents who struggle more than most to find a home they can afford.

According to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, about 31% of renters in Lynn, or close to 4,000 households, pay more than half their income toward housing.

In addition, across the Metro Boston area, the current home vacancy rate is approximately 1.8%, but in some towns around the North Shore, it is less than half a percent.

This means that if you are in a place in your life where you need to find a new place to live and youd like to come to the North Shore, your familys from here, your business is here, its incredibly challenging to start your life and lead your life here, Gina McLaughlin, senior advisor at EOHLC, said during a community listening session at North Shore Community College on Thursday.

Lynn has been doing more than many communities to address its local housing crisis. In 2022, the city implemented an inclusionary zoning ordinance requiring developers of multifamily housing to set aside 10% of units as affordable and started an Affordable Housing Trust Fund to provide money for affordable housing projects.

The fund was seeded with money the city received through the American Rescue Plan Act.

Mayor Jared Nicholson has made housing one of the top priorities for the citys ARPA funds, saying Thursday that the city is doing everything it can to reduce costs for residents.

Much of that federal money has gone to repairs, maintenance and upgrades at Lynn Housing Authority and Neighborhood Development (LHAND) properties, including a total retrofit of at least one unit that had been permanently taken offline due to disrepair. Its now once again available to house low-income residents.

Were proud to be one of the fastest growing communities (in Massachusetts) in terms of production and population, Nicholson said. We need housing of all types and weve been trying to help production. These are great projects to help us meet the needs specifically of the people here.

The largest project that received a boost from ARPA funds, however, is the planned redevelopment of the historic armory building on South Common Street into housing for veterans.

The city contributed $1 million from ARPA and $1 million from the federal HOME Investment Partnership Program to the project, which will result in 52 units, including 16 studios, 35 one-bedrooms and one two-bedroom.

The state transferred ownership of the former armory to Neighborhood Development Associates, the nonprofit development arm of the housing authority, in August 2018, but the redevelopment has since hit a variety of hurdles.

While the building plans were previously completed, they had to be scrapped and redesigned when the organization realized the high cost of the plans.

Read more: Homeless veterans find an affordable home in historic South End row house

The property consists of a turreted head house, which will include 10 units as well as offices and common spaces; a detached garage, which will house 16 units; and a 127-foot drill shed. Inside the drill shed, the developers will create the remaining 27 units by essentially creating a new building within the existing one, with two rows of homes facing a central common area on both the ground floor and a mezzanine.

The setup will allow the historic 1893 structure to be preserved. And it also will give a sense of openness with newly-installed skylights in the slate roof.

Peggy Phelps, director of planning and development at LHAND, explained during a visit to the armory Thursday that with the original plans, the agency was looking at paying around $800,000 per unit.

Following the redesign, which added nine more homes, abandoned plans for the basement and otherwise reduced costs, they expect to pay close to $650,000.

While still a high price tag, it will allow them to follow the requirements of the state and federal Historic Tax Credit programs to cover part of the cost and preserve the buildings original character.

It belongs on the common, Phelps said. If youre from Lynn, you feel that sense of pride when you drive by it.

The building plans are currently about 90% complete, and expected to be done by the end of the month. Once financing for the approximately $31 million project is secured, construction is expected to take about 20 months.

When it opens, the mixed-income community will receive supportive services through the Lynn Office of Veterans Services.

During Thursdays listening session, the first of a series of 15 that the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities will be conducting across the state, attendees shared their priorities that they hoped would be addressed as Gov. Maura Healeys administration develops a five-year strategic statewide housing plan.

Common asks from people in attendance included more housing at deep affordability levels for the lowest-income residents, preservation of existing affordable housing, a fix for long waitlists for public housing and the implementation of rent control.

Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus said the state is using every possible avenue to address the housing crisis, as well as creating more tools through Healeys proposed $4.1 billion housing bond bill.

We didnt get into this crisis by accident. It was 40-plus years of not building enough housing, not prioritizing, allowing local communities to sometimes throw up roadblocks and obstacles and barriers to building housing for some people, he said. Those days need to be over.
An attempt by Oak Bluffs police to stop a truck ended with the truck slamming into a police cruiser before the truck drove off a ferry ramp into the water, the Oak Bluffs Police Department announced.

While police did not release his name, the driver was charged with two counts of assault and battery on a family or household member, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon to wit (motor vehicle), disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, two counts of vandalism, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, refusal to stop for police, trespassing with a motor vehicle and speeding, police said in a statement on Friday.

At around 9:30 p.m. on Thursday and while out on patrol, Oak Bluffs Police Sgt. Christopher Wiggin saw a Ford F250 wanted for a domestic violence crime, police said. Wiggin tried to stop the Ford as it was driving in the area of Masonic Avenue, but it did not stop after Wiggin turned on his cruisers lights and sirens.

The Ford kept driving towards Massasoit Avenue before it stopped. Wiggin placed his cruiser in park while he thought the driver had given up, police said.

In reverse, the truck drove into the cruiser and caused significant damage before it sped off towards Seaview Avenue, police said. Unable to immediately follow the Ford, Wiggin was able to limp it along and kept the truck within view.

The truck broke through the locked gate of the Steamship Authority Terminal and drove down the wooden pier, the Oak Bluffs Fire Department said in its own statement.

At the ramp, Wiggin positioned his cruiser and saw the truck launch itself off the ferry ramp and into the water, the department said. Wiggin called for the Oak Bluffs Fire Department and the U.S. Coast Guard for help.

The individual was spotted by Oak Bluffs Fire and Police personnel, swam to the end of the concrete dolphin on the left side of the slip, climbed a ladder, and reached the pier, the fire department said.

First responders were able to get the driver away from the water and was placed in Oak Bluffs police custody, both departments said. He was then taken to Marthas Vineyard Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries sustained during the incident.

Wiggin was not injured during the initial crash, police said.

The Ford will be removed from the area of the Steamship Authority pier when the weather conditions improve, police added.
Multiple communities across Massachusetts reported technical difficulties with the state 911 system Friday morning.

Police departments in Haverhill, Plymouth, and Springfield, all warned of the possibility that a call to 911 may not go through.

In a statement, public safety officials in Plymouth said residents should still call 911 if they have an emergency. Otherwise, they should call police or fire dispatch directly at either 508-746-1212 or 508-746-2211.
Parents in Deerfields Frontier Regional School District are criticizing school administrators for their lack of response to a sexual misconduct incident that was reported to have happened at the high school last month.

During a Frontier Regional School Committee meeting on Tuesday, parents said they were troubled by a lack of communication from school leaders about the incident at Frontier Regional School, and that they felt families were not properly supported in the wake of it.

One of my children has told me that they feel like youre not supposed to talk about this if it happens to you. That is the message that theyre getting from their school, Deerfield Elementary School teacher and Frontier Regional parent Jennifer Smith told the school committee.

What happened

School officials have not shared much specific information about the incident out of concern for students privacy, so it is still unclear what exactly happened.

Even so, Frontier Regional Superintendent Darius Modestow confirmed to MassLive Thursday that the incident took place during school hours. But it did not involve any school staff.

Modestow also said Deerfield police were involved when the report was initially made. But in a Thursday statement to MassLive, the police department declined to confirm or deny an investigation into the incident or whether the incident even occurred.

Deerfield police incorrectly cited a Massachusetts law that mandates that police records about rape, sexual assault and domestic violence cases be kept confidential as their reason for not providing any information.

The law prohibits police and other officials from releasing such records without the consent of the victim. But it does not prevent them from releasing any information whatsoever about such cases.

In a letter to families, Modestow said that district administrators responded to the incident immediately after it was reported.

All required reporting was completed, the authorities were engaged, and we offered immediate and ongoing support to the parties involved, he wrote.

More recently, the district has extended counseling support to the entire student and employee population and created a plan to institute additional supportive and preventative measures, according to Modestow.

The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. The District investigates all claims and allegations of conduct violations, including Title IX allegations, thoroughly. The District takes all such allegations seriously and consistently implements safety supports as appropriate, Modestow said in a statement to MassLive Thursday.

Parents response

During the school committee meeting Tuesday night, concerned parents said district leaders response to the incident had been inadequate so far. School administrators should acknowledge that they erred and apologize, the parents said.

As parents, we need to know what is happening at our childs school so that we can have informed conversations with them, especially about something this serious. Instead, were learning whats going on from our children, Ellen Johnson told the school committee. The continued lack of response from the school has left families and students trying to find a way to deal with this on our own.

Parent April Wharton emphasized that, while she understands the need to protect students and victims privacy, the lack of communication from district leaders caused misinformation about the incident to be shared, creating an environment of secrecy, shame and distrust.

The lack of communication regarding such a grave and important incident makes me feel that the safety and well-being of my child is not a priority to the school or the administration, she said.

The parents made suggestions for further action by the district, such as asking local experts what the best way to address the situation with the students is, creating online sign-ups for students who want to meet privately with support staff and creating safe and easy assault reporting structures and protocols.

They also asked that school leaders share more information about how they responded to the incident when it was reported, as well as their procedures for responding to such incidents.

It is the victims choice how and what to share with others, but the event effected the entire school, Ellen Moise told the school committee.  ... It is the administrations responsibility to provide some level of assurance to students and families that our children are safe, that measures are in place to respond to sexual assaults, and when something terrible happens, that the school is ready and willing to appropriately support victims.

School leaders response

At the school committee meeting, Chairperson Melissa Novak thanked the parents for sharing their concerns, adding that committee members are listening.

I just want to say that I really appreciate the strength that you all have shown in bringing forth these concerns, both as parents and as community members, she said. " ... I want to assure you from the school committee perspective that we are committed to making sure that this school is a safe space for the kids.

It is unclear whether Modestows letter to parents was sent before or after the school committee meeting, but in it, he tried to reassure families of Frontier Regional Schools safety by highlighting the schools security measures and health supports.

The high school has security cameras, a warm and friendly school resource officer, six mental health counselors and a variety of physical and mental health programming, he said.

Still, Modestow wrote that the incident had led school leaders to come up with ideas for how improve their response if and when similar challenging incidents occur.

These ideas included communicating with families more quickly and effectively in the wake of such incidents; making harassment, bullying, and sexual misconduct reporting easier and reviewing and revising relevant school policies.

In the past few weeks, we have considered not only how we could prevent similar incidents from occurring, but how we can communicate more quickly and effectively if they do, Modestow wrote. In addition, we are thinking about the overall culture at Frontier and how it can be improved to benefit the safety of all.
More than 525 people from 34 states and two countries, each of whom are somehow connected to a person with profound autism, united together at a first-of-its-kind summit in Brighton.

And Profound Autism Summit attendees left the event with more than pamphlets and words of wisdom: the caregivers felt an emerging sense of belonging. Some, for the very first time.

Identity is so important for so many people in our community, Judith Ursitti, president of Profound Autism Alliance, told MassLive, sitting near some of the many informational booths inside the Boston Marriott Burlingtons halls at the summit on April 5.

Ursitti, whose son has autism, co-founded her national organization in Massachusetts in January 2023. It co-sponsored the summit.

Read more: UMass Chan unveils first lab to monitor AI use in health care simulations

Other conference chairs for the summit were Liz Martineau, founder and CEO of Nashoba Learning Group ,and the groups director of training and business development, Katherine Johnson.

With this part of the population  which the [Centers for Disease Control] says is one in four people with autism have profound autism  they have been feeling on the margin. We need to be able to have conversations and address the things that were going through, she said.

Attendees listening during a session at the Profound Autism Summit on April 5. Photo by Kristin ChalmersKristin Chalmers

At its base definition, profound autism means a person requires life-long care, Ursitti said.

There are levels of presentations and severities within that specified diagnosis, which can include intellectual disabilities, violent outbursts, or communication problems.

Over a dozen sessions were held at the summit with nine speakers and 11 panelists, with topics appealing to both family and medical caregivers.

These included subjects such as elopement, or when a person leaves supervision without permission, options for alternative communication devices, and information about interpreting and behavior response.

During one of the afternoon sessions, a member of the audience stood up to ask a question and doing so, announced herself as a sibling of a person with profound autism.

Though not the base of her question, nor the sessions topic at hand, it sparked at least four others in the room to stand up and identify themselves with the sister. Countless more buzzed in excited conversation about their experiences as a sibling.

Ursitti recalled a conversation she had at the summit with a 63-year-old mom from Texas, who said shes the caregiver of her 25-year-old son with profound autism.

She felt compelled to come, because she knew she could get information that was relevant what shes going through and what her sons going through, Ursitti said.

If we can do that, thats the biggest success: connecting with caregivers, empowering them and sending them home to know theyre not alone.

Judith Ursitti speaking to attendees at the Profound Autism Summit. Photo by Kristin ChalmersKristin Chalmers

Ursitti is a certified accountant, by trade. But when her son was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, she said it pulled her into advocacy.

She worked for the research and advocacy group Autism Speaks for 13 years to pass autism insurance legislation in all 50 states.

And once she got across the country, Ursitti knew she wanted to focus on those with severe diagnoses.

Now, the Profound Autism Alliance provides support for researchers looking into profound autism and helps connect families to those looking to work with those researchers, along with other resources for them.

Its also working on an effort its dubbed The Dignity Project, which tells the stories of people with profound autism and helps to show the darkness and the light, Ursitti said.

Additionally, the group has its Sibling Action Network, a resource just for siblings. And its currently funding a project studying how to develop the best treatment for those with intense behaviors.

The entire autism community can support each other. Sometimes were going to support each other in broad ways. Sometimes were going to get little slices, and focus on specific things for that part of the spectrum. And I think thats okay. I think thats what needs to happen, said Ursitti.

With her eyes on next years summit, Ursitti said she feels the gathering successfully brought together people who did not know each other, but had the same common goal: to learn alongside and connect with those who truly understand their loved ones lives.
A cannabis dispensary employee and a 62-year-old woman were injured after the womans SUV drove into an Attleboro dispensary, according to the Attleboro Fire Department.

At around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, firefighters went to Zahara Cannabis Dispensary at 70 Frank Mossberg Drive for a report of a car that crashed into the building, the fire department said in a statement.

The SUV, a Nissan Pathfinder, drove through a wall and stopped about 15 feet inside the store, the fire department said.

The woman who drove the SUV and a store employee were both injured and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. No one else was hurt.

The Attleboro Police Department is investigating the crash. A city building inspector checked out the building and determined it was structurally sound.
When a Canton police officer arrived at 34 Fairview Road on Jan. 29, 2022, the body of John OKeefe, a Boston police officer, felt cold to the touch.

OKeefes girlfriend, Karen Read, kept screaming Is he dead, according to newly unsealed documents in Norfolk County Superior Court.
SPRINGFIELD  More than a decade after breath test evidence in drunken driving prosecutions came under heavy fire, legal advocates argue the state system of evaluating that evidence is still flawed.

Policies around Breathalyzer tests have flip-flopped as a result of a class action lawsuit and a 2023 decision by the states Supreme Judicial Court. The test results were excluded from evidence in prosecutions from 2011 to 2019, when 27,000 defendants were afforded opportunities for new trials or to withdraw guilty pleas.
A 26-year-old Springfield man who was part of a massive highly organized group of thieves that stole catalytic converters from nearly 500 vehicles was sentenced to roughly four years in prison, acting U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Joshua S. Levys office announced Thursday.

Zachary Marshall pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to transport stolen property in interstate commerce and interstate transportation of stolen property last November. He is the sixth person to enter a guilty plea connected to the widespread catalytic converter thefts, and federal prosecutors say the group also store from ATMs and jewelry stores.

Marshall and six others were arrested in April 2023 in connection with the catalytic converter thefts from at least 496 vehicles in across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, according to Levys office. Officials believe the actual number of thefts is higher, as many were not identified or not reported to law enforcement.
Les membres du gouvernement ont pris note que le Finance and Audit (COVID-19 Solidarity Fund) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 sera promulgue, de la collaboration entre Mauritius Examinations Syndicate et la Cambridge International Education, que la deuxieme reunion de India-Mauritius High Powered Joint Trade Committee aura lieu a Maurice pendant le mois de mai 2024, que lInternational Firefighters Day aura lieu le 4 mai 2024, entres autres.

1. Cabinet has taken note of the promulgation of the Finance and Audit (COVID-19 Solidarity Fund) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 which provide for the COVID-19 Solidarity Fund to be renamed as Solidarity Fund and increase the scope of the mandate of the Fund, to include the financing of the following additional Government Schemes:

(a) the Prime a LEmploi Scheme;

(b) the Cancer Treatment and Cancer Care Scheme; and

(c) the subsidies to bakeries.

2. Cabinet has agreed to the signing of a Collaboration Agreement between the Mauritius Examinations Syndicate and the Cambridge International Education in the field of examinations and assessments with the objectives of:

(a) ensuring that all candidates would be given a fair and equitable opportunity to excel to the very best of their abilities in educational assessments;

(b) providing assessments with integrity, designed to meet the curriculum requirements of the Mauritian national educational policy and ensure strict security enforcement;

(c) promoting the development of skills, competencies and innovation necessary for the holistic development of Mauritian learners;

(d) supporting the continual professional development of assessment staff through training, collaboration, partnership and the exchange of ideas and expertise; and

(e) ensuring that teachers would be provided with training and support to enable them to succeed in preparing students to an international standard.

The main activities falling under the collaboration relate to the conduct of end of cycle examinations at the end of Grade 11 and Grade 13, in respect of the School Certificate and the Higher School Certificate examinations, respectively, as well as the submission of the scholarship listings for the proclamation of laureates.

3. Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Education, Tertiary Education, Science and Technology would deploy the Google Classroom as a digital platform for online teaching in Secondary Schools in order to enhance the experience and practice of online teaching. The Google Classroom would be rolled out as from the second term of academic year 2024. A comprehensive briefing for rectors would be held and clear protocols and guidelines would be established. Training sessions would be carried out for Educators for the optimal use of Google Classroom. Google accounts would be created for students as well as their parents thereby enhancing communication and bridging the gap between home and school. The Mauritius Institute of Education would be monitoring the whole exercise.

4. Cabinet has agreed to the Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change signing a Project Cooperation Agreement with the United Nations Office for Project Services, with a view to securing the assistance of the latter for an effective climate action transparency.

The Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change would embark on the Initiative for Climate Action Transparency, which had been set up as a project of the United Nations Office for Project Services for supporting developing countries, including Mauritius, in building their capacity for effective climate action transparency and better assessment of the impacts of climate policies and actions. The initiative would ultimately be beneficial for the full operationalisation of the MauNDC Registry, thereby improving the quality and access to climate change information and data, leading to more informed assessment of climate policies and improving decision making.

5. Cabinet has agreed to the holding of the second meeting of the India-Mauritius High Powered Joint Trade Committee under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement on 22 and 23 May 2024 in Mauritius. The meeting would, inter alia, comprise discussions on:

(a) assessing trade performance under the Agreement;

(b) addressing Non-Tariff Barriers encountered by the Parties;

(c) exploring additional market access opportunities; and

(d) defining modalities to implement the Economic Cooperation Chapter.

6. Cabinet has taken note that Mauritius would observe the voluntary fishing closure period of all gears of tuna fishing in the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission Area of Competence from 15 May 2024 to 15 June 2024 instead of 01 to 31 May 2024.

7. Cabinet has taken note of the organisation of activities in the context of the commemoration of International Firefighters Day which is celebrated on 04 May 2024 every year, to recognise and honour the sacrifices of firefighters who risk their lives for others, ensuring that communities and environment were as safe as possible. The Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service would, inter alia, organise the following activities:

(a) International Firefighters Day Commemoration Ceremony on 04 May 2024, at Coromandel Fire Station, comprising a parade consisting of squads from 11 fire stations and ending with the National Sound Off of fire sirens for 30 seconds at all fire stations;

(b) a Blood Donation Campaign on the premises of the Coromandel Fire Station on 04 May 2024;

(c) Fire Safety and Emergency Disaster Preparedness Campaigns, starting as from 04 May 2024, at different identified locations around the island; and

(d) Educational and Recreational activities throughout Mauritius as from 04 May 2024 for vulnerable groups.

8. Cabinet has taken note that the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council would organise a seminar on 26 April 2024 to mark World Intellectual Property Day 2024. The theme chosen for this year is Intellectual Property and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)  Building our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity.

The seminar would provide an opportunity to highlight the central role that Intellectual Property, innovation and creativity play in achieving the SDGs for the benefit of all. The seminar would be a platform to conduct valuable discussions through the involvement of both local and international experts. The discussions would be designed to encourage the formation of new partnerships, promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices, and secure a collective commitment to leveraging Intellectual Property as an effective instrument for accomplishing the SDGs.

9. Cabinet has taken note of the activities being organised by the Mauritius Digital Promotion Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Tertiary Education, Science and Technology in the context of Girls in ICT Day, which would be celebrated on 25 April 2024 on the theme Leadership.

The objective of Girls in ICT Day would be to bridge the barriers that girls face in ICT education and to reduce gender inequalities by providing female students with digital skills and tools through the following activities 

(a) 3D Design and Printing Boot Camps to initiate more girls on the concept of 3D Printing Technology, enable development of designing skills as well as promote girls in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education; and

(b) Career Counselling Sessions and Role Modelling, with a view to further encouraging female students uptake in IT subjects.

10. Cabinet has taken note that the teledon in favour of the people of Palestine, organised at national level and spearheaded by the Municipal City Council of Port Louis, had been extended up to 19 April 2024 and the bank accounts of the State Bank of Mauritius (Account Number: 503 0000 118 8017) and the Mauritius Commercial Bank (Account Number: 000 45 20 56 349) would remain open till that date.

11. Cabinet has taken note that, as at 10 April 2024, there were 259 active cases of Dengue Fever in Mauritius, of which 48 had been hospitalised in both public and private hospitals. For Rodrigues, 102 active cases of Dengue Fever had been recorded as at April 2024, of which 13 were hospitalised.

12. Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the recent visit of the Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare to Rodrigues. The main objective of the visit was to hold discussions with the Commission of Womens Rights on the procedures to be put in place for the implementation of the recommendations of the National Gender Policy 2022-2030 and to seek their views on the proposed Child Adoption Bill.

A Workshop was also organised with the Departmental Heads of all Commissions on the provisions made in the National Gender Policy 2022-2030 and the implementing mechanism that need to be discussed for Rodrigues. The Minister also had meetings with the Commissioner of Women Rights and senior officials of the Commission and Women Associations in Rodrigues.

13. Cabinet has taken note of arrangements being made by the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the operationalisation as from 15 April 2024 of the Drug Users Administrative Panel, which would be chaired by Hon Abdurrafeek Hamuth, Former Puisne Judge.

14. Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of the Early Childhood Care and Education Authority, with Mrs Fawzia Ahmad Toorawa as part-time Chairperson.

15. Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of the State Trading Corporation, with Dr Ramchandra Bheenick as part-time Chairperson.
La deuxieme reunion de lIndia-Mauritius High Powered Joint Trade Committee aura lieu a Maurice aura lieu du 22 au 23 mai 2024.

Cabinet has agreed to the holding of the second meeting of the India-Mauritius High Powered Joint Trade Committee under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement on 22 and 23 May 2024 in Mauritius. The meeting would, inter alia, comprise discussions on:

(a) assessing trade performance under the Agreement;

(b) addressing Non-Tariff Barriers encountered by the Parties;

(c) exploring additional market access opportunities; and

(d) defining modalities to implement the Economic Cooperation Chapter.
Sinn Fein MEP for the Midlands North-West constituency Chris McManus has hit out at comments by Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh on his party's migration policies.

Yesterday, MEP Walsh said Sinn Fein's Eurosceptic colours came to the fore once again as they failed to support the EUs landmark migration policy and used language last heard during the UK Brexit debate.

However, McManus took exception to the content of Walsh's statement and said her comments were a blatant attempt to distract from Fine Gaels appalling record on health, housing and their failure to stand up for Ireland in the EU.

In a statement to The Mayo News, McManus said: It is clear that her party is out of touch, out of ideas and out of time. Time and time again Fine Gael MEPs have failed to stand up for Irelands interests, instead choosing to engage in spin rather than delivering change for the people they represent. Walsh attempts to distract from Fine Gael failures wont fool voters.

The EU Pact on Migration and Asylum was passed by the European Parliament this week. All five Fine Gael MEPs voted in favour of all policies within the Pact, while Sinn Fein failed to vote for the majority of policies.

McManus explained why his party had taken this stance: The majority of the measures in this Pact were not in Irelands best interests, which was why I voted to oppose them. Sinn Fein believe that Ireland needs a well-managed migration system  one that is fair, efficient and enforced.

I believe that it should be for an Irish government to decide on key aspects of our immigration system. These are not matters for the EU to dictate to us. A one size fits all approach across the EU would not work.

Sinn Fein want a system that recognises each Member State is different and faces different pressures at any given time. That can be done in a manner that balances human rights concerns with stringent enforcement of our rules.
The Alzheimer Society of Irelands will mark 30 years of Tea Day at their Castlebar centre.

Their Castlebar day centre will host the thirtieth annual Alzheimers Tea Day on Friday, May 3, from 10.30am-1pm.

Alzheimers Tea Day brings communities across the nation together to support the vital work of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

They provide services such as the national helpline, daycare programs, home care, family carer training, social clubs, and Alzheimer's cafes.

Castlebar Day Centre Manager, Mary Rowland, said: 2024 marks the thirtieth anniversary of Tea Day, and we are delighted to host Tea Day in the Alzheimer Society of Irelands Castlebar Centre to help support our service users, their families and carers.

Over the 30 years, Tea Day has raised 10 million to help support people living with dementia across Ireland, along with their families and carers.

The leading dementia specific service providers in Ireland supply much-needed resources and services for the 64,000 individuals in the country living with dementia and their families.

The anniversary is a significant milestone, as statistics show that at least 30 people in Ireland are diagnosed with dementia every day.

With the number of people diagnosed with dementia expected to double in the next 25 years, the need for support has never been greater.

Speaking ahead of the thirtieth anniversary of Alzheimers Tea Day, Head of Fundraising for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Mairead Dillon said whether you host an event, attend, or donate, every action brings us closer to a future where no one faces dementia alone.

Together, let's raise a cup of kindness and make the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer's Tea Day the most successful yet, she concluded.

Join the conversation online using #TeaDay2024 and #TeaDay30 to share your stories and show your support.

For more information or to register, see the Tea Day website.
Senator Lisa Chambers has commited to furthering cancer care efforts in response to comments by the Irish Cancer Society.

Comments highlighting the detrimental effects of funding shortages on cancer patient outcomes were made by the Irish Cancer Society at the Oireachtas Committee on Health this week.

Fianna Fail Midlands Northwest European Election candidate, Senator Lisa Chambers has reaffirmed her commitment to advancing cancer care in the west and northwest of Ireland.

"The comments from the Irish Cancer Society are a stark reminder of the inequities in health outcomes across our country," said Senator Chambers.

"For years, I've worked alongside Professor Michael Kerin, Professor of Surgery and Director of the Cancer programme for the west and northwest and local councillors in Galway City to champion the necessity of a regional cancer centre at University Hospital Galway.

UHG is where patients from the entire west and northwest are treated. As it stands, survival rates in the west are lower than those in the east of the country. This facility is crucial not only for providing care but also for bridging the survival rate gap between the east and west of Ireland, she added.

Progress has been made in advancing cancer care in the area, with Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly greenlighting the design phase of the new centre last year.

The development is a milestone for the region, promising to deliver comprehensive cancer services closer to home for thousands of patients.

"As your representative, I pledge to continue this crucial work, ensuring that every individual facing this battle has the support and resources they need. This report is not just data; it represents lives that we have the power to improve," Senator Chambers concluded.
The Castlebar Educate Together national schools campaign for a new building has gained momentum.

A public meeting organised by the school heard testimonies from staff, parents and pupils of their experiences of school life in a three-campus configuration.

Minister for Education, Norma Foley, promised the children a new school building after a visit two years ago, but little progress has been made.

Dail deputies, local councillors and election candidates listened to first-hand accounts of how the schools three unsuitable buildings are negatively impacting on the childrens education and wellbeing.

The buildings were declared unfit for purpose in a school commissioned OMD Design, consultant engineers, report earlier this year.

Sixth-class pupil Sarah Scott described how due to the lack of play areas at each campus site, children had to play in a litter filled alleyway and a car park.

Sixth class pupil Sarah Scott addressed the meeting

The student spoke of the excitement when the Minister for Education visited and promised the children a new school building in September 2022, and of the subsequent disappointment when that promise was not progressed.

Despite the setbacks, Ms Scott vowed that the schools campaign would continue.

School principal Sarah Calvey thanked those in attendance for their continued support and reinforced the school's belief that a site does exist in the town that is ready to be purchased.

Addressing the meeting, Minister Alan Dillon pledged to return to the schools board of management within seven days with arrangements for a meeting between the school and Minister Foley.

Mayo Deputy, Rose Conway-Walsh, said in support of the campaign: The Minister must keep her promise to the children of Castlebar Educate Together. I will be doing everything in my power to hold her and the government to account.

Ms Conway-Walsh called it inexcusable to have a school like this being messed around.

We need action now to purchase the site and get on with building this school. We will accept nothing less. It was a joy to attend last night's meeting with parents, teachers and children. I commend them for their resilience, but this should not be necessary in 2024 in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, she concluded.
TIME is running out on the prospect of Ireland's first artificial reef becoming a reality due to delays in processing a maritime licence application to sink a ship in Killala Bay.

Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef Ltd, which is made up of a group of diving enthusiasts, have applied for a maritime licence to the Marine Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) to sink a disused ship in Killala Bay and make it Ireland's first artificial reef.

The ship they hope to sink is the infamous smuggling ship, MV Shingle which is currently the property of the Revenue Commissioners and currently in dry dock in New Ross, Co Wexford. The ship was seized in 2014 after customs officers discovered 32 million packets of cigarettes worth 13 million on board the 60 metre long vessel.

While the Revenue Commissioners have agreed to make the ship available to Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef Ltd to sink, they have given the group until Friday, April 19 to have the MARA licence in place or the ship will be scrapped.

Crossmolina-based councillor Michael Loftus, who is involved in Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef Ltd, said that the application for the licence was submitted in December and urged MARA to expedite their application to ensure the opportunity of creating Ireland's first artificial reef is not lost.

We have worked with the Revenue Commissioners on this for a number of years and they have been very supportive of it and recognise the potential this can bring to both Mayo and Sligo. The ship is in dry dock in New Ross and is being prepared to either sink it in Killala Bay or be scrapped. There is only a short window where they can keep the ship in dry dock and we have been told if the licence is not in place before April 19 it will be scrapped, Cllr Loftus told The Mayo News.

If we get the licence and the planning to go with it, we would hope that the ship will be sunk in Killala Bay in June or July and if that happens it will be huge to the area. It will be worth 12,000 bed nights per year to Killala, Ballina and Enniscrone with divers from all over the world coming to dive in Killala Bay.

There is strong support for this project within both Mayo and Sligo County Councils who recognise how much potential this will have for tourism. We estimate that the current investment in it will have paid for itself within two years and the Revenue in fairness recognise that and that is why they have been very receptive to us, he explained.

Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef Ltd have invested up to 35,000 of their own money into the project and they have also received 50,000 in funding from Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) towards it.

Cllr Loftus added that the Revenue have agreed to do most of the work on the ship to clean it and make it environmentally safe to sink and diver friendly. They have also agreed to transport it to Killala Bay in preparation of sinking if the licence is granted in time.

The application for the maritime licence normally takes 90 days to process and Cllr Loftus urged the Department for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and MARA not to let this opportunity pass.

It would be a major mistake if the Shingle is scrapped because of delays in the department and it will be a lost opportunity for outdoor tourism around Killala Bay. This will provide employment to boat people around Killala Bay in bringing divers to the reef site and diving centres will emerge in Killala, Ballina and Enniscrone.

There are similar artificial reefs in places like Malta and Cyprus where divers flock to and we can have a similar reef experience on our doorstep. The Revenue have worked with us to get the best outcome for Shingle to create Ireland's first artificial reef that will generate a major attraction and be financially beneficial to Mayo and Sligo.

It would be a huge shame if this would not happen because of an administrative delay and I would urge the Minister and the civil servants to please grant the licence in time, he said.
by Fern Siegel , April 12, 2024

Employment Hero, the HR software, payroll and benefits platform, assigned independent creative agency Special London a global brand brief.

The appointment followed a competitive pitch.

Employment Hero is partnering with Special to create a global brand platform to drive business in key markets, including the U.K., U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia.

Employment Hero, founded in 2014, operates across five markets and is used by 300,000 SMEs, totaling more than 2 million employees worldwide. Jennifer Black, partner-CEO of Special London, called Employment Hero a brand that is truly disrupting the world of work for the better.

The HR company also launched its Swag app in 2023 to help employees with their finances and work life.

Matt Poulier, global head of brand at Employment Hero, said Special showed a deep understanding of first-principle thinking and a commitment to challenging the status quo. This aligns perfectly with our mission to break down barriers and deliver unparalleled value to both our B2B and B2C audiences worldwide.

Special began in New Zealand in 2007, but now has hubs in Australia, the U.S., Japan and Europe. Its most recent opening is in London.
by Fern Siegel , April 12, 2024

Big Idea Advertising has launched a rebrand for the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau.

This is its first initiative as the islands agency of record. The branding includes a new logo and a new tagline  "Twice the Caribbean"  which salutes the island's dual French and Dutch heritage.

"Post-pandemic, travel and tourism have become more competitive than ever, with travelers seeking new destinations and authentic experiences. Our rebrand addresses that craving by moving away from generic marketing to telling the real stories of St. Maarten, its people, its hidden gems and the vibrant blend of French and Dutch cultures that makes this island unique  in the Caribbean and the world," Steve Defontes, founder-president of Big Idea Advertising, told Agency Daily.

Defontes said the new logos vibrant color and design are born from facets of St. Maarten's culture and history.

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The green and blue shapes represent the ocean and nature. The unique shape of the brown pelican, its national symbol, and the shape and color of yellow sage, the islands national flower, are embedded in the logo design.

The new St. Maarten brand identity can be seen on its Instagram (@vacationsstmaarten) and X (@vacationsxm) social-media accounts, as well as in print and targeted digital advertising in the U.S., via Google and Expedia, to reach potential travelers.

The brand creative will also be presented at upcoming travel trade shows in the U.S., Canada and Europe. There will be a national awareness program in Amsterdam and strategic out-of-home activations in Times Square, New York and Miami, among other key cities.

For the first quarter of 2024, St. Maarten tourism reported a 21% year-over-year hike in visitors versus 2023 data, according to Travel and Tour World.

Big Idea Advertising has offices in New York and Miami. Its roster includes the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and the Anguilla Tourist Board.
by Tanya Gazdik , April 12, 2024

Ford Motor Co. is launching a brand campaign with the theme Freedom of Choice that showcases the breadth of its vehicle lineup.

The goal of this campaign from Wieden+Kennedy is to raise awareness of Fords range of vehicles and what they enable, reminding people that Ford gives them the most empowering thing choice.

The automaker offers customers a range of gas, hybrid and electric products to suit almost every customer's need  from work to adventure to family activities and beyond.

Its the first soup to nuts effort led by Lisa Materazzo, who became Fords global chief marketing officer in September after leaving her post as the top North America marketing executive at Toyota.

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The brand messaging is very relevant to Ford and the Ford DNA, what we stand for, Materazzo told Marketing Daily in an exclusive interview.

We stand for American values, we stand for freedom, Materazzo says. Thats a big part of American values. That's freedom. And it's important that people know the choices they have, the freedom of choices they have within our lineup.

At the core of the campaign, which runs through September, are three spots featuring nine different Ford vehicles.

Starting Line debuted during the Mens Final Four games on CBS on April 6. The second spot, Get Things Done, launches today. It highlights the new 2024 F-150, which has gas and PowerBoost Hybrid models in addition to the electric F-150 Lightning. A third spot, Power to Do, will launch in the Kentucky Derby on May 4.

The campaign is focused on creating broad awareness and consideration so there is very much a focus on that upper to mid funnel, Materazzo says. And what our research showed is that there are some shoppers out there that aren't aware of the breadth of choice that we have within our lineup, and it's important for us to get that message out there."

In tandem with the campaign, Ford has a redesigned Ford.com consumer shopping page and vehicle homepages, simplifying the process for customers to find their perfect vehicle and powertrain combination.

Materazzo says she is still very much in listen and learn mode but is pleased with tha automaker's current agency relationships. Wieden+Kennedy was a great partner on her first campaign.

"And we did it under a very compressed timeline, she says. It wasn't initially in the plan, but as we see the industry evolving and consumer preferences changing a bit, we wanted to make sure that we got this message in the marketplace that we really do have great options for consumers regardless of their preferences, regardless of their vehicle needs.

The media plan includes linear connected tv, digital video and banner placements and a Spanish language version running on Univision and Telemundo, she says. It also includes both paid and organic social media.

And then finally what I'm very excited about is that to drive demand, we've created assets that can be used [by Ford dealers] both at tier two and tier three, Materazzo says. And that's exciting because that will not only give us a bigger presence in the marketplace, but it'll give us a great deal of consistency across the tiers.
by Ray Schultz , April 11, 2024

Gannett has ended up in another controversy -- this one fomented by staffers at the Austin American-Statesman.

Workers went on a four-day strike late last week and returned on Tuesday, according to the Austin Chronicle. But Gannett fulfilled its threat to temporarily or permanently replace striking journalists, posting several temporary reporter positions, the Chronicle reports.

In addition, the reporters discovered that their story on the eclipse was almost identical to one published by the Democrat & Chronicle in Rochester, NY.

Both papers had the headline I looked at the eclipse and now my eyes hurt. What are the symptoms of eclipse blindness?

Reporters claim that their union has been negotiating their contract with Gannett. After a January strike, the company went from a starting salary of $48,000 to $50,000. The union, however, demanded $60,000, and it seemed to some that a middle salary would be offered, of $57,000.

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But Gannett wrote in an FAQ for the staff the progress that the parties made towards an agreement in the last few weeks was conditioned upon reaching a contract before April 5, 2024, according to the Chronicle. "The parties understood that, if they did not reach an agreement, all of the proposals would revert back to those on the table on March 26.

Gannett lowered its offer to $48,000. The company insists that it will continue to serve readers.

Our goal is to preserve journalism and serve our community as we continue to bargain in good faith, says Amy Garrard, vice president of labor relations at Gannett, the Chronicle reports. "Austin American-Statesman readers can be assured there will be no disruption to our ability to deliver content and trusted news.
by Colin Kirkland , April 11, 2024

TikTok has reportedly been talking with advertisers about an artificial-intelligence-generated feature that creates a wave of virtual influencers to star in videos on the app. According to a report by, human influencers would be competing with the avatars for ad deals.

The report states that the fleet of virtual influencers is under development and could still change as the project moves ahead. It is not yet available to advertisers as a live tool.

The way the feature currently is understood to work involves the generation of a script for a video ad based on a prompt provided by the advertiser. TikTok staff have been testing the avatars but have decided they arent yet ready for live consumption due to low e-commerce sales conversions compared to human influencers.

Still, TikTok is said to believe that AI creators are likely to complement its current base of influencers.

In addition, two advertisers familiar with the matter, told The Information that TikTok Shop merchants also have the option to use the virtual influencer to promote their products.

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TikTok has not provided any further details on the AI-creators, how the company plans to share ad dollars between human creators and AI-creators, or how it aims to provide a fair environment for sharing brand deals.

It is an interesting move for the company to make, especially now, in the middle of a potential ban in the US. Just last week, the company has centered its creator community in the fight against the piece of legislation, issuing a TV ad spot featuring probable creators who depend on TikTok for their living, as well as an economic impact report showing the platform providing almost $15 billion in small business profits, and generating $24.2 billion in total economic activity via SMB use on the platform.
by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, April 12, 2024

Havas has acquired French digital transformation and data consultancy firm TED Consulting which will join the organization under Havas Media Networks business science division.

Terms werent disclosed, but Havas said the firm has quadrupled its revenue in three years.

advertisement advertisement Founded in 2016 by Mathias Chaumon, TED Consulting helps clients automate business processes with artificial intelligence-infused robotic process automation technology.

Havas said the acquisition will enable it to create unique solutions for clients globally combining data, automation, robotization and artificial intelligence.
by Wayne Friedman , April 12, 2024

Krishan Bhatia, formerly a senior ad sales executive at NBCUniversal, has been hired as vice president of global video advertising at Amazon.

Bhatia will oversee Amazons TV advertising business including live sports, Amazon Freevee, Twitch, Prime Video Ads and third-party publishers.

He will report to Alan Moss, Amazons vice president and global ad sales.

Bhatia had been president and chief business officer for NBCU Advertising Sales and Partnerships. He follows on the heels of senior ad sales executives departing the big TV-movie based legacy media company.

He was one of several executives who departed NBCU after chairman of NBCU Ad Sales Linda Yaccarino left within 11 months, just before the TV advertising marketplace was set to commence to become CEO of Twitter, now known as X.

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While at NBCU, Bhatia focused on new potential currencies and audience measurement issues -- areas that many legacy-TV network based companies have been involved in as they expand their streaming services. Advertising brands have been seeking better cross-platform audience measurement from legacy media sellers.

In January, Amazon hired former Walt Disney ad sales executive, Jeremy Helfand, who worked on Hulu, as vice president/head of advertising for Amazons Prime Video.
by Tanya Gazdik , April 12, 2024

The Aruba Tourism Association is launching creative that continues to focus on the positive emotional impact that makes traveling to the island unique.

The latest installment of The Aruba Effect campaign from Deep Focus runs through the rest of the year. Executions include a 75-second anthem ad, four audience specific 30-second spots (Beaches, Family, Active, and Awards) and 15-second cutdowns.

The integrative campaign will encompass North America, Latin America and Europe, with localized versions of ads adapted for the non-U.S. markets. Mediums include CTV video (Hulu, Netflix, Max, Disney+), digital (YouTube), social media (TikTok), audio (Spotify, New York Times DAYBREAK), display (ADARA, Kayak, Kargo, Bidtellect), weather-triggered OOH, and custom digital content (Bon Appetit, Modern Luxury).

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Caribbean advertising is a sea of sameness. Similar beaches. Similar water. Similar weather. To elevate beyond industry conventions and create a different, more emotional connection with consumers, the agency says it tapped into what distinguishes Aruba beyond its physical characteristics.

After an extensive research process and creative iteration, the agency determined that Arubas difference from other Caribbean islands is the lasting effect it has on visitors. Once they leave, Aruba never truly leaves them. This idea is articulated as The Aruba Effect in the creative.

This is the third year of the Aruba Effect campaign.

As a creative platform, The Aruba Effect continues to evolve in smart, surprising ways to capture the truth that the physical beauty of the island is matched by the kindness of its people, said Matt Steinwald, Deep Focus ECD.

You know how after some vacations you need a vacation? a voiceover asks as the camera lingers on a sunbathers fingers, sifting through white sand as she reads her novel on an isolated beach after swimming in emerald-blue water in one spot. This isnt one of those vacations," the voiceover adds. The spot ends with the tagline Calm That Stays with You.

Deep Focus partnered with a global team of experts for the spot, including veteran director Klaus Obermeyer Jr. (CNN, Travelocity, Amazon), director of photography Johan Palm, and nature photographer Mathieu Young.

Deep Focus is Arubas AOR. They won the media business in 2019 and were given creative responsibilities in 2021.
Court's Verdict: No Leniency for Deceptive Advertising



Patanjali founders prioritize publicity over sincerity, and the Supreme Court demands accountability. #patanjali #supremecourt #medindia

Criticism of Regulatory Oversight

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The Supreme Court of India has rejected the apologies given by Patanjali's founders, Baba Ramdev and Balkrishna, for their misleading advertisements. The apex court minced no words, declaring, "we are not blind" and asserting that it "does not want to be generous" in this case. Justices Hima Kohli and A. Amanullah, presiding over the bench, tore into the Uttarakhand licensing authority for its failure to take action against Patanjali and expressed dissatisfaction with the Centre's response.The bench, led by Justice Kohli, highlighted the founders' initial approach, noting that Ramdev and Balkrishna first sent their apologies to the media rather than directly to the court. "Till the matter hit the court, the contemnors did not find it fit to send us the affidavits. They sent it to the media first, till 7.30 pm yesterday it was not uploaded for us. They believe in publicity clearly," Justice Kohli remarked, underscoring the founders' apparent prioritization of public image over genuine contrition.Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the Patanjali founders, faced sharp criticism from the bench as he read out the affidavits. Justice Amanullah questioned the sincerity of the apology, remarking, "You are defrauding the affidavit. Whoever drafted it, I am surprised." Despite Rohatgi's attempt to explain the oversight as a " lapse ," the court was unrelenting, emphasizing the gravity of the deliberate violation of its orders.The court emphasized the broader societal implications of Patanjali's actions, stating, "This is not just about one FMCG but a violation of the law." It criticized the Uttarakhand government for its inaction, demanding the suspension of three officers for their failure to act against Patanjali despite repeated violations. The bench condemned the state's licensing authority for its negligence, accusing it of being "in cahoots with the contemnors" and failing in its duty to protect public interest.The court's reproach extended beyond Patanjali to the regulatory framework, questioning the efficacy of existing laws and enforcement mechanisms. It highlighted the need for accountability and transparency, particularly in cases involving public health and safety. The bench underscored the seriousness of the matter, asserting that "the Supreme Court is being mocked" and warning against complacency or complicity in such instances.The court's criticism extended to the regulatory system, questioning its effectiveness and transparency. It stressed the need for accountability, especially concerning public health and safety.As the proceedings ended, the court announced it would make a decision on Ramdev and Balkrishna's case on April 16, showing its commitment to holding those responsible for misleading advertisements accountable. The Supreme Court's firm stance serves as a reminder of its dedication to justice and protecting citizens' rights in a society where accountability often falls short.Source-Medindia
The Service of Diplomatic and Historical Archives (YDIA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs presents its new publication entitled Greece Liberated: Recognition and Establishment of Diplomatic and Consular Relations". In essence, the volume is the catalog of the exhibition of the same title presented by YDIA in Greece and abroad on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the beginning of the Greek Revolution.



The publication presents documents from the historical archives of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs that describe the course of recognition of the new Greek State by the existing States during, and in the first years after, the Greek Struggle for Independence, the establishment of diplomatic and consular relations with them and the creation of a consular network.



The publication aims to highlight some of the important moments of the Greek diplomatic history of the Revolution and the first years of the new independent Greek state through the original research conducted by YDIA.



The volume is bilingual (in Greek and English). The National Printing House carried out the final editing and printing, and the graphic editing was done with the support of the SNF Centre for Hellenic Studies at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver.
Troops at Colorado Space Force Base Will Have to Bring Their Own To-Go Boxes for Dining Hall

While the initiative is aimed at reducing waste on base, the spokesperson added that they hope it will give troops on base...
Officials at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy say they have disciplined 55 second-class cadets who shared the answers to two homework assignments last fall in a nautical science course.

An academy spokesman said Friday that the cadets distributed answers related to navigation assignments in a required course for graduation, in "clear violation of academy policy."

The collaboration violated the Coast Guard Academy's Honor Concept, according to officials.

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"The U.S. Coast Guard Academy is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, honor and accountability," Capt. Edward Hernaez, commandant of cadets, said in a statement.

"Misconduct like this undermines trust, and those found to have violated our principles were held accountable for their actions."

Following an investigation, six cadets found to have a significant amount of involvement in the collusion received failing grades, while 48 were given lower grades. Eleven were removed from command positions they had earned this coming summer supporting training of the incoming swab class.

A total of 55 cadets, including one who was not enrolled in the course but was involved in the information exchange, were restricted to the academy grounds and will undergo a 20-week honor remediation program.

The Coast Guard Academy, unlike some schools, does not have an honor code -- an oath that students take, swearing that they will not lie, cheat or steal that also contains a "non-toleration clause" requiring those who become aware of an honor code violation to report it or also be in violation of the code.

Instead, the school has an Honor Concept, which says students' actions must be "straightforward and always above reproach," according to the cadet handbook. However, they are required to report activities that do not incriminate themselves, and the condoning of an honor violation is a punishable offense.

"The Coast Guard Academy's Honor Concept is exemplified by a person who will neither lie, cheat, steal, nor attempt to deceive. It is epitomized by an individual who places loyalty to duty above loyalty to personal friendship or to selfish desire," the handbook states.

The nautical science course the cadets were enrolled in is required for graduation, according to Public Affairs Specialist 2nd Class Taylor Bacon. The six students received failing grades for their involvement, all of whom will be first-class cadets next year, will have time to retake the course, Bacon said in an interview with Military.com on Friday.

The Coast Guard Academy, in New London, Connecticut, has an enrollment of roughly 1,000 students who are training to become officers in the U.S. Coast Guard after graduation.

The last major cheating scandal at the school occurred in 2016, when three students were expelled and 37 others disciplined for cheating on an online quiz for a ships and maritime systems class, according to The Associated Press.

The academy has been the subject of service and congressional investigations into its response to sexual assaults at the school and failure by top Coast Guard leaders to disclose the results of a six-year investigation into cases of rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment at the institution that occurred between the early 1980s and 2020.

Related: 'We Need You Badly,' Biden Tells New Coast Guard Officers in Commencement Address
DAKAR, Senegal  Russian military trainers arrived this week in Niger to reinforce the countrys air defenses as the west African nation pulls away from close cooperation with the U.S. in counterterrorism efforts, turning instead to Russia for help as it fights Islamic insurgents.

State television in Niger on Thursday broadcast footage of Russian military trainers arriving in the country aboard a plane equipped with military supplies. Two Russian trainers were filmed in front of the plane wearing military uniforms, caps and face coverings.

We are here to train the Nigerian army to use the military equipment that is here, one of the Russian trainers said in the broadcast, speaking in French. We are here to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.

Nigers ruling military council, known as the CNSP, has yet to order American troops out, U.S. officials have said. But the arrival of Russian forces makes it complicated for the U.S. forces, along with diplomatic and civilian personnel, to remain in the country and throws into doubt the future of joint Niger-US counterinsurgency operations.

Until recently, Washington considered Niger a key partner and ally in a region swept by coups in recent years, investing millions of dollars in an airbase in a desert area that served as the heart of American counterinsurgency operations in the sub-Saharan region known as the Sahel.

The U.S. also invested heavily in training Nigers forces to beat back insurgencies by militants linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State which ravaged the country and its neighbors. But last summer, some of those elite U.S.-trained forces took part in a coup that ousted the elected president.

As recently as December, some 600 U.S. troops and hundreds more contractors were stationed in Niger, tasked with flying manned and unmanned surveillance operations and supporting local forces against jihadi groups.

Since then, relations between Niger's new leaders and Washington have quickly deteriorated.

Following the visit last month of a U.S. delegation led by the top U.S. envoy to Africa, Molly Phee, the junta announced on state television that flights from the U.S.-built airbase were illegal and that it no longer recognized the American military presence in the country. The junta criticized the U.S. for warning Niger against cooperating with Russia and Iran, saying it was trying to force the African nation to choose between partners.

The Russian plane had arrived on Wednesday night, the report said, and carried Russian military supplies to help Niger improve its air defenses.

The broadcast said the arrival of Russian trainers followed a call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the countrys military leaders in March. Nigers military leaders are seeking to diversify their partnerships and achieve greater sovereignty, the broadcast said.

The arrival of a Russian air defense system can be viewed as part of the juntas effort to reclaim sovereignty, this time over its airspace, and force the U.S. and Russia to cooperate with each other in Niger," said John Lechner, Africa analyst and author on the Wagner Group. But he added that, Such cooperation is unlikely.

He said the Niger government may be trying to compel the U.S. forces to withdraw without explicitly pushing them out.

Since 2012, Niger and other neighbors in the region have been gripped by a worsening insurgency fought by groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State group.

-

Associated Press writer Sam Mednick in Jerusalem contributed.
The maintenance-embattled USS Boxer is heading back to San Diego just 10 days after deploying due to an engineering issue, as first reported by USNI News and confirmed to Military.com by Navy officials.

Sailing as the big deck, or lead ship, of its amphibious ready group, the Boxer had already been delayed by months when it deployed April 1. Its return further comes on the heels of an announcement by the Navy's top leader earlier this week that the service, in conjunction with the Marine Corps, is conducting an inquiry into amphibious operations that will include problems with the ship.

"USS Boxer is returning to San Diego to undergo additional maintenance in support of its deployment in the Indo-Pacific region," Lt. Cmdr. Jesus Uranga, a spokesperson for the Navy's 3rd Fleet in the Pacific, told Military.com in an email.

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The Boxer had departed for its "Indo-Pacific deployment and was conducting integration exercises with the MV-22 Osprey in the 3rd Fleet area of operations," when it was forced to return, Uranga said.

While further details were not provided regarding the nature of the malfunction, Uranga said the ship would return to its deployment "in the near future."

Marines and aircraft with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit were onboard the Boxer and have already been offloaded, officials told USNI News, although the ship had not yet made it back to port as of Thursday evening.

On April 8, the Navy's top leader, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, said that she had ordered a "deep dive" into numerous maintenance and readiness issues faced by the ship.

"I think there's some good lessons learned with Boxer," Franchetti told reporters at the Navy's annual Sea-Air-Space conference earlier this week.

Meanwhile, last month, the Boxer was given seven Navy-wide awards for "sustained superior performance," including the Battle Effectiveness Award and the Maritime Warfare Excellence Award, according to the service.

Franchetti's inquiry will be led by three-star admirals in the Navy's operations and plans and policy offices, she said, adding she anticipates they will come to her with initial recommendations on how to proceed "in the May timeframe, and that will start to outline the shape of the the deep dive going forward."

While the investigation's timing may seem coincidental, the four-star admiral said Monday that the branch was trying to be proactive and keep delays to just the Boxer.

"We're seeing some potential delays on [the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp]," Franchetti said. "We're trying to look ahead to make sure that we can, I want to say, nip this in the bud."

The Wasp, which is the same class of ship as the Boxer, departed Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, in early March only to return shortly afterward. A spokesperson for Surface Force Atlantic told Military.com following the incident that "during the underway, the ship discovered an engineering irregularity" and "returned to port to effect repairs."

The ship got underway again at the end of March without issue.

A defense official told Military.com in March that the Boxer had originally been slated to deploy late last year, but it was held up thanks to a series of delays and mechanical issues that were driven, at least partly, by poor leadership aboard the ship.

Two previous command investigations conducted on at least three different engineering breakdowns showed "a lack of procedural compliance, substandard supervisory oversight, and general complacency by the crew," according to the ship's strike group commander.

Those breakdowns, information on which was released to Military.com as part of a Freedom of Information Act request, revealed that the ship had experienced damage to two "forced draft blowers" on Nov. 8, 2022. A separate investigation into that incident, also provided to Military.com via FOIA request, faulted "poor quality craftsmanship, lack of industry repair skill set/capabilities" and a "lack of supervisory oversight" from the Navy offices overseeing the work.

Then on May 14, the ship had a "boiler safety" breakdown. That investigation "once again revealed a lack of procedural compliance and overall complacency of all personnel involved," documents from the strike group commander revealed.

The two other ships that the Boxer commands, the USS Somerset and USS Harpers Ferry, both have successfully deployed. The Somerset and its contingent of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are currently in the waters off India, according to a Marine Corps press release from April 4.

The Somerset deployed in January, and the Harpers Ferry in mid-March.

Editors Note: After publication a Navy spokesperson contacted Military.com to clarify that the probe into the Boxer is part of a broader inquiry into amphibious operations that is being conducted in conjunction with the Marine Corps. The article has been updated accordingly.

-- Konstantin Toropin contributed to this story.

Related: Top Navy Leader Has Ordered 'Deep Dive' on Amphibious Ship Readiness After Delays with USS Boxer
For the first time ever, military schools have begun enrolling students for a new, full-day universal prekindergarten program.

The new Department of Defense Education Activity pre-K program is set to start at the beginning of next school year with enrollment and has long been sought by military families, especially those with two working parents, including dual-military couples. Now, 80 of 90 DoDEA schools will host the universal program, with enrollment opened for school starting this fall.

"It really adds a lot more into the support we can provide to military families," Will Griffin, the communications director for DoDEA, told Military.com in an interview Thursday.

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Pre-K is already offered at some DoD schools, but not everywhere. In many cases, when it is offered, the program allows only half-day enrollment, leaving many working parents to come up with alternative child care solutions.

The initiative, fueled by $94 million in a defense spending bill passed by Congress last month, is open to all children eligible to attend DoDEA schools who will be 4 years old by Sept. 1. It will follow the widely used early childhood development "Creative Curriculum."

The program is set to open after undergoing a successful pilot program last year at an elementary school at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Griffin said.

The 10 schools that will not offer universal pre-K are in the process of undergoing significant renovations or new construction to accommodate future students, Griffin said, adding that DoD schools must adhere to certain facility requirements for hosting elementary school students.

Those schools include four elementary schools at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; one at Fort Novosel, Alabama; and five additional schools across Europe, including four in Germany and one in Kleine Brogel, Belgium.

The schools that will offer universal pre-K will begin the program 10 days after the start of the regular school year for older students. Griffin said the delayed start will allow additional time for pre-K teacher professional development, and will let teachers and families schedule one-on-one meetings to help children ease into the change.

The DoDEA expects numbers of pre-K enrollment to closely match kindergarten enrollment, which currently hovers around 6,000 students, Griffin said, adding that the bulk of military students are youngsters enrolled in pre-K through fifth grade.

DoDEA is working to add 500 jobs to support the program, including 250 teachers and 250 teaching aides. The student-to-teacher ratio for the program is set at 18 students for every one teacher, with a teaching aide. Teaching aides are "paraprofessionals" and are not required to have a teaching degree or license.

Roughly 80% of new pre-K staff have been hired so far, Griffin said.

Details on the delayed school openings and student registration can be found on the DoDEA website. Registration is open and will not close, though early enrollment is encouraged.

Related: DoD Schools Roll Out New 'Gender-Neutral' Dress Code for Students
Julio Teheran has elected free agency after clearing waivers, tweets Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. The Mets had designated him for assignment on Tuesday.

Teherans stint as a Met couldnt have been much shorter. The veteran righty agreed to terms on a major league deal on April 3, a move that was announced by the team two days later. Skipper Carlos Mendoza tabbed him for a start in Atlanta on Monday. Teheran allowed four runs without making it out of the third inning and was DFA one day later.

While it wasnt the most productive tenure, Teheran banked a major league salary for around a week. His contract called for a prorated $2.5MM salary for time spent in the majors, so he collected upwards of $80K. Thats a decent outcome for a player who had opted out of a minor league pact with the Orioles at the end of Spring Training.

The 33-year-old now sets out in search of his third organization of the 2024 campaign. He may need to settle for a minor league contract this time around, but he should find interest from teams looking for experienced rotation depth. Teheran started 11 of 14 appearances with the Brewers last season, allowing 4.40 earned runs per nine innings.

That was Teherans heaviest workload at the major league level since 2019. A two-time All-Star during his nine-year tenure with the Braves, he has pitched for four clubs since the start of the 20 campaign. Over the last four-plus seasons, Teheran owns a 6.10 ERA with a well below-average 16.1% strikeout rate against a solid 7.2% walk percentage.
Update: The residence were the Jeep was found was searched, but Oglesby is still at large, police said.

EATON COUNTY, MI  A wanted man and law enforcement agents exchanged gunfire Friday morning while a fugitive apprehension team tried to make an arrest.

At 7:55 a.m. April 12, members of the Michigan Department of Corrections Absconder Recovery Unit were following a black Jeep Patriot in the 1700 block of Willow Highway in Lansing Township occupied by Marcus Gamba Oglesby, a parole absconder wanted on multiple felony warrants for assault, according to the Michigan State Police.

As the vehicle entered Delta Township, Oglesby, a passenger, got out of the SUV with a handgun and fired at the MDOC vehicle, police said. The agents returned fire as Oglesby, 31, of Jackson, got back into the vehicle and fled the area. The preliminary investigation indicates the gunfire did not strike the agents or Oglesby.

Agents followed the vehicle as it pulled into the Westland Center Plaza at Waverly Road and W. Saginaw Highway, where the Oglesby fled from the vehicle on foot, running east from the shopping plaza, police said.

The Jeep then left the area without Oglesby. At this time Oglesby has not been located, police said.

The Jeep was located behind a residence on Drexel Street in Lansing, police said at 5:02 p.m. The residence was searched, but Oglesby was not located, police said.

Law enforcement and police dogs are looking for Oglesby, last seen wearing all black clothing.

Oglesby is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who spots him should not approach him and instead call 911 immediately, police advise.

He was last sentenced in January 2022 to prison time for resisting, assaulting or obstructing a police officer in Jackson County. He absconded parole in March, according to Department of Corrections records. He also has served stints in prison for vehicle theft and home invasion.

The Eaton County Sheriffs Office, Lansing Township Police Department and Lansing Police Department are assisting in the search.

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Tulip Time celebrates tulips, Dutch heritage, and the Holland, Michigan community from May 4-12, 2024. Pictured is Duncan Bocks, a Tulip Time board member, taking part in the White Glove Inspection and Community Street Scrubbing before the Gentex Kinderparade (childrens parade) as part of the annual Tulip Time Festival in downtown Holland on May 11, 2023. (Cory Morse | MLive.com) Cory Morse | MLive.com
ALLEN PARK, MI  Twin girls who ran away from home in March were found this week at a Michigan hotel after a stolen credit card was used to pay for a room they were staying in, police said.

The 14-year-old sisters were reported missing by their father on March 8 after they didnt return to their Detroit home, FOX 2 Detroit reports. They were found at an Allen Park hotel and reunited with their family on Monday, April 8.

On Monday, Allen Park Police officers responded to a Comfort Inn where a credit card reported stolen out of Nebraska had been used to pay for a room, the report said. One of the officers happened to recognize the missing teenagers. This is not the first time the twins have run away. When asked why they ran away, one of them said, Dont worry about it. Its none of your business.

The room was booked by Marcus Peoples, 30, of Highland Park, the report said. Hes charged with fraud, using a stolen credit card and harboring missing juveniles; bond was set at $150,000.
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI  Police say recent bomb threats sent to an Ypsilanti-area hotel and Eastern Michigan University may be related.

The investigation into the origins of these threats is ongoing, and law enforcement is diligently working to ensure the safety and security of our community, Derrick Jackson, spokesperson for the Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office, said.

Investigators have confirmed a California person is not involved, Jackson said.

Police initially arrested the Californian, suspected of sending an email claiming to have placed several explosive devices Sunday, April 7 at the the Marriott hotel, 1275 South Huron St., in Ypsilanti Township. The hotel was the site for the weekend of Motor City Furry Con, open to those 18 and older who are interested in anthropomorphic costumes.

Officers, along with canines trained in explosive detection, conducted a thorough sweep and no actual bombs were found, police said.

Read more: Michigan furry convention interrupted by bogus bomb threat out of California

Police were called to the same hotel two days later after an email claimed bombs were placed in the hotel rooms.

Read more: Police called to 2nd bomb threat at Ypsilanti hotel this week

The email threat also contended bombs were put in three dorm buildings at Eastern Michigan University, which issued a critical alert around 12:40 p.m. Tuesday, asking students to evacuate Wise, Buell and Putnam residence halls.

Read more: Bomb threat at Eastern Michigan University cleared with nothing found

Both the hotel and the university were searched, police said. No explosive devices were discovered and both locations were deemed clear by 3:30 p.m.

An emailed threat was received by an unspecified entity on Thursday, April 11, alleging the potential for future bomb threats but without detailing any specifics, Jackson said.

For each of these (threats), there have been random community members or media outlets who have received an email, Jackson said in an email response to a question about who received the threat. They simply let us know that they have the potential to send more threats.

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ANN ARBOR, MI -- Ann Arbor will be a new Michigan location for a restaurant known for fried chicken fingers with a signature sauce.

Raising Canes Chicken Fingers is set to become an anchor tenant in the Vic Village South high-rise on South University Avenue, according to Jim Chaconas of Colliers International Ann Arbor, whose commercial real estate group helped secure the deal.

We are grateful for our partnership with the owner of Vic Village South, through which we successfully collaborated to secure Raising Canes as an anchor tenant, Chaconas wrote in a statement. Raising Canes will be an invaluable addition to the retail landscape of Vic Village South. We are honored to have played a role in securing its future at this prominent location.

Officials with Raising Canes did not respond to requests for comment.

The restaurant is known for its fried chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast and signature Canes sauce. It has locations nationwide, but only one Michigan restaurant is currently open in East Lansing.

Raising Canes is one of the developments three ground-floor commercial spaces. Chaconas said the other two spaces are in the process of being filled.

Vic Village South is a 13-story high-rise that will bring luxury-branded housing for university students in fall 2024. Oakland County-based Hughes Properties is behind the development and also confirmed Raising Canes is coming to the space.

Related: New Ann Arbor high-rise now leasing with one-bed units priced at $3K per month

Learn more about Raising Canes online or on social media.

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FLINT, MI -- A Flint City Council member who was suspended by a vote of her colleagues has sued them in Genesee Circuit Court, asking a judge to reinstate her and to enjoin the council from similar actions in the future.

6th Ward Councilwoman Tonya Burns filed the lawsuit on Wednesday, April 10, after having been suspended for 30 days on March 25.

A resolution approved by five council members claimed Burns violated rules of decorum, including using her elected and social media platforms to speak to the motives of other council members, refusing to leave her seat in silence and instead departing the meeting in a disorderly manner, violating rules or order, misusing privileged motions and inciting chaos.

Burns has maintained she was targeted for discipline by a majority of the council because she has spoken out about President Ladel Lewis acceptance of a gift of $1,500 to the Sarvis Park Neighborhood Association, a group she founded, from Ashley Capital before voting to approve a massive brownfield tax break for the company.

Burns lawsuit claims any punishment that prohibits a council member from casting votes and representing voters is akin to removal from office, a power that the Michigan Constitution reserves for only the governor in cases of misconduct.

It asks Judge David J. Newblatt to reinstate Burns, enjoin any future removal of council members, and for preliminary and permanent injunctions declaring the suspension was unlawful.

Although the Flint City Charter gives the council the authority to determine its own rules of procedure, compel the attendance of members, and to discipline its own members for misconduct, the complaint maintains that section of the charter is contrary to state law.

While the City Council may punish a member for misconduct, the punishment cannot be contrary to state law, the lawsuit says. It says the council vote to suspend Burns for 30 days violates the state Constitution and other Michigan statutes and has deprived her of due process.

A city spokeswoman did not immediately comment on the lawsuit on Friday, April 12.

Burns is not the first member of the council to be suspended for misconduct.

The late Eric Mays, who represented Flints 1st Ward, was suspended from the council for 30 days in 2020 for being disruptive and 30 days in July 2023 for conduct unbecoming of a council member. He was serving a 90-day suspension from the council at the time of his death on Feb. 24.

In 2021, the council also censured former council President Kate Fields. In that case, Fields was allowed to vote but was not allowed to speak or chair council meetings.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  Hundreds of acres of wooded swampland south of Jackson burned this week in a grass fire that sparked in the middle of the day on Tuesday.

Here is that headline and some more you might have missed this week.

Grass fire burns about 300 acres of swampy woodland south of Jackson

About 300 acres of a wooded swampy area south of Jackson burned in a large grass fire Tuesday afternoon that could be seen throughout Jackson County.

Smoke was first seen around 3:30 p.m. April 9, in the swamp area between Jackson Mobile Home Park, 2240 Brooklyn Road, and R.W. Mercer Co., 2322 Brooklyn Road, according to the Summit Township Fire Department.

Developers withdraw rezoning request to bring solar farm to Grass Lake area

A rezoning request to build a large-scale solar farm in Grass Lake Township has been withdrawn by its developers.

The request from Grass Lake Solar, operated by NextEra Energy Resources, was seeking to have 583.5 acres on six parcels rezoned from single-family residential to agricultural land.

Shootout between cars outside party store leaves bystander injured by shattered glass

A woman suffered minor injuries when the drivers side window of her car was shattered by gunfire from two nearby drivers who started shooting at each other outside a Jackson party store, police said.

Officers were called at 9:15 p.m. April 9, to the parking lot of B&S party store, 1000 E. Ganson St., and found the woman, who was not involved in the shooting incident but did suffer several cuts from the broken glass, according to the Jackson Police Department.

Eradicating violence is goal of annual Jackson community summit

Jackson residents are invited to attend the third annual Summit to Reduce Violence next week to learn more about what everyone can do to help quell violence impacting the community.

Initially, the focus was on identifying problems caused by violence. The following year, the spotlight shifted to solutions. This year, the theme is taking action to put an end to violence.

One of the neatest mornings I can recall. Residents awed by white pelicans at Michigan lake

In his 41 years living at Pleasant Lake, Mike Sharp had never experienced a morning like the one he had Wednesday.

Sharp, 66, was alerted by his son, who lives down the road at the lake in northern Jackson County, that there was a large flock of 40 and 50 white pelicans resting along the shore of an island in the middle of the lake.

Grass Lake Community Schools superintendent announces retirement

Superintendent Ryle Kiser plans to retire from his position at Grass Lake Community Schools, with a tentative final day set for June 30, the longtime administrator announced Wednesday.

Kiser said he has accepted a professor position at Northwestern Oklahoma State University to teach masters level education administration courses.

Man accused of strangling girlfriend pleads guilty to domestic violence, dropping felony

A Jackson County man accused of strangling his girlfriend in his second alleged act of domestic violence has pleaded guilty.

Charkita Shonta Suddeth admitted April 2 to one misdemeanor count of domestic violence, his second such offense, and attempted obstruction of police, court records show. A felony count of assault with intent to do great bodily harm and a misdemeanor count maliciously destroying personal personal property worth more than $200 were dismissed.

Woman accused of firebombing Jackson County home heads to trial

A Detroit woman accused of firebombing a Springport home in late February is heading to trial on arson and other charges.

San Derria Lee Ervin waived her preliminary examinations March 21 and March 29 on two felony cases associated with the firebombing of a Springport Township Home.

These are the most popular college destinations for Jackson-area students

A familiar college choice once again holds the top spot for Class of 2023 high school graduates from Jackson County.

Jackson College is the most popular college destination for almost every high school in Jackson County, according to the Michigan Department of Educations transparency dashboard.

Man serving 140-year sentence for sexual assault fails to convince high court to hear appeal

A man convicted of beating and repeatedly sexually assaulting his on-again-off-again girlfriend has failed to convince the highest court in the state to hear his case.

The Michigan Supreme Court issued an order March 29, declining to hear the appeal of Percy Edward Taylor and affirming a Michigan Appellate Court decision made in August 2023 to deny a reconsideration of his prior 2018 appeal, which also failed.

Schulers turning long-vacant Marshall building into modern wedding, event space

As she looked at downtown Marshall, Sue Damron saw a need for a place where people could host weddings, corporate events and other celebrations.

So Damron, president/CEO of the historic Schulers Restaurant & Pub is creating one.

The company is calling the new space 19 Zero 9, named after the year Schulers opened. At 112 N. Eagle St., its just down the road from the iconic restaurant. Interior demolition in the building, which will become an indoor venue, began in March , Damron said.

Solar eclipse of the heart: Michigan couple weds atop castle during celestial phenomenon

A Michigan couple made the national phenomenon of Mondays solar eclipse into something even more special, exchanging vows atop a castle tower at the peak of the event.

Vanessa Quigly and Anthony Badall of Stockbridge were married Monday afternoon on the six-story-high stone parapet of Helmer Castle, a historic Medieval-style castle turned wedding venue on 20 secluded acres in Liberty Township, south of Jackson.

Former Masonic Temple being transformed into event space, community kitchen in Jackson

Imagine a place where new restaurants can develop their menus and where Jackson youth can learn useful skills in the kitchen.

This is how Hope Kitchen, a new nonprofit, sees Jacksons new City Center and its community kitchen being used by it and other businesses in the area.

Meet the Teacher: She uses her battle with cancer to inspire her Jackson students to persevere

Years ago, the thought of working with high schoolers terrified Danielle Newbound.

Now nine years into her role as a special education teacher at Jackson High School, Newbound hopes to stay where she is for the rest of her career.

Overnight fire destroys Jackson-area house

A Jackson County home was destroyed in an overnight fire.

Crews from the Summit Township Fire Department were called around 12:40 a.m. on Saturday, April 6, to the 200 block of West South Street for a reported structure fire, Capt. Scott Stoker said.

When crews arrived on scene, fire was coming through the roof of the two-story home, officials said.

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KENT COUNTY, MI - About 3,200 grams of marijuana, 4,100 vape pens, two handguns and nearly $40,000.

This is all that was seized from a Kent County business accused of selling marijuana products to underage customers, police said.
KALAMAZOO, MI -- Kalamazoo Public Schools is launching a new strategic planning process to learn what people think of the districts strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

The district is doing input sessions at every school in the district. And Superintendent Darrin Slade is attending each one.

The input sessions are for parents and staff, spanning from early April to mid-May. Community input sessions will follow at a later date.

Slade said the district hasnt had a strategic plan for a number of years.

Were promoting real conversation, Slade said.

The input given at the presentation will be saved and factored into the strategic plan, Slade said.

Heres a list of when Slade will be visiting each school. The list includes Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts, which had its meeting earlier this week.

Elementary Schools

Arcadia Elementary School

932 Boswell Lane

April 16, 5:30 p.m.

Edison Academy

831 Lake St.

April 22, 4 p.m.

El Sol Elementary School

604 W. Vine St.

May 2, 5:30 p.m.

Greenwood Elementary School

3501 Moreland St.

April 19, 5:30 p.m.

Indian Prairie Elementary School

3546 Grand Prairie Ave.

May 10, 5:30 p.m.

King-Westwood Elementary School

1100 Nichols Road

April 12, 5:30 p.m.

Lincoln International Studies School

912 N. Burdick St.

April 12, 4 p.m.

Milwood Elementary School

3400 Lovers Lane

April 15, 5:30 p.m.

Northeastern Elementary School

2433 Gertrude St.

April 24, 5 p.m.

Northglade Montessori Magnet School

1914 Cobb St.

April 17, 5:30 p.m.

Parkwood-Upjohn Elementary School

2321 Park St.

April 23, 5:30 p.m.

Prairie-Ridge Elementary School

2294 S. Ninth St.

May 3, 5:30 p.m.

Spring Valley Center for Exploration

3530 Mt. Olivet Road

April 22, 5:30 p.m.

Washington Writers Academy

1919 Portage Road

May 15, 5:30 p.m.

Winchell Elementary School

2316 Winchell Ave.

May 6, 5 p.m.

Woods Lake Elementary

3333 S. Westnedge Ave.

May 16, 4:30 p.m.

Woodward School

606 Stuart Ave.

April 17, 4 p.m.

Middle Schools

Hillside Middle School

1941 Alamo Ave.

May 10, 4 p.m.

Linden Grove Middle School

4241 Arboretum Parkway

April 16, 4 p.m.

Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts

922 W. Maple St.

April 9, 6:30 p.m.

Milwood Magnet School

2916 Konkle St.

April 15, 4 p.m.

High Schools

Kalamazoo Central High School

2432 N. Drake St.

May 3, 4 p.m.

Kalamazoo Innovative Learning Program (CEC Room 130)

714 S. Westnedge Ave.

May 2, 4 p.m.

Loy Norrix High School

606 E. Kilgore Road

May 15, 4 p.m.

Phoenix High School

1411 Oakland Drive

April 23, 4 p.m.

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WILKES-BARRE, PA  Nicole M. Cuevas died hard.

Accompanied by what she thought were friends, the 38-year-old woman left her hometown of Saginaw for Pennsylvania in the spring of 2023. After arriving at a row house in the city of Wilkes-Barre, it took only days for Cuevas supposed friends to turn on her, according to prosecutors.

Desperate to return to Michigan, she reached out to loved ones seeking money for a way back.

Then contact with her stopped.

By then, Cuevas was no longer in control of her phone, police allege. Instead, she was in the control of group of people, including a mother-daughter duo, within a den of crack cocaine.

The group would imprison, starve, and torture Cuevas for nearly a month before brutally killing her, possibly as she made an escape attempt, prosecutors allege.

It would take 10 months before police found Cuevas body, buried in a foot-deep grave in the houses basement. Just shy of a year since Cuevas death, prosecutors announced five suspects had been arrested and charged with six felonies each: criminal homicide, conspiracy to commit homicide, kidnapping, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, aggravated assault, and abuse of corpse.

Charged in Cuevas slaying are Desiree K. Linnette, 43; Faith L. Beamer, 39; Sarai M. Doyle, 24; Jason P. Race, 43; and William B. Wolfe, 54.

The grim and sobering details are outlined in an 18-page probable cause affidavit provided to the media by Luzerne County District Attorney Sam M. Sanguedolce following an April 9 press conference.

A nightmare begins

In late March 2023, Cuevas left Saginaw with Linnette and Doyle and three children, partly because she was pursuing a relationship with Linnette, according to the police-authored affidavit. They began living at 142 Carlisle St., where Beamer, Race, and Wolfe already resided, the affidavit states.

As soon as they arrived, Linnette turned on Cuevas, police wrote.

Linnette began attacking Cuevas character, police wrote, including accusing her of inappropriately touching one of the children present. Investigators believe Linettes intention was to tarnish Cuevas reputation and turn the house against Cuevas.

Witnesses would also tell police Linnette was calling the shots in the house and that she, Race, and the mother-daughter duo of Beamer and Doyle were heavily using crack, supplied by Linnette.

Within about three days, Cuevas called her mother and asked for money for a bus ticket, saying she was in Pennsylvania with friends, the affidavit states.

She also sent a message through Facebook Messenger to a friend saying Linnette had just hit her and she was bleeding and in tears. She wanted to leave badly enough she was considering walking back to Saginaw, she messaged her friend.

After an unusually lengthy delay, Cuevas Facebook account began responding in a more aggressive tone, demanding money and denying shed been abused, the report states.

This dont even [expletive] sound like you, her friend replied.

According to police, it wasnt her, as Linnette had taken her phone. As witnesses later told police, Linette and Cuevas got into a fight, with the latter initially getting the upper hand. Beamer and Doyle then joined in and overpowered Cuevas, police wrote.

After that fight, Cuevas was subjected to daily beatings and torture, police wrote.

Her confinement and abuse would end with her death on April 21.

A Mystery Unearthed

Though no one had seen or spoken to Cuevas since early April 2023, it wasnt until February 2024 that police learned the homicide had occurred.

A witness came to them on Feb. 21 to report Cuevas possible homicide at the Carlisle Street house.

This person and a subsequent witness indicated an 8-year-old girl was present for Cuevas beating and killing. The girl claimed Beamer and Race were using animal feces and urine to mask the odor of Cuevas body, the affidavit states.

Police spoke with Linnette, who admitted to driving from Saginaw to Wilkes-Barre with Cuevas. She said she left the Carlisle Street house at some point and when she returned, Cuevas was gone. She assumed she had returned to Michigan, she told police.

Investigators spoke with Cuevas mother, who said she contacted Michigan authorities in January about her daughters disappearance. She said she hadnt heard from her since April, when her daughter asked her for money for a bus ticket. She had sent her daughter $400, but she never arrived home.

Police on Feb. 27 entered the house, having obtained permission to do so from its current owner, who bought it at a tax sale the previous fall. Entering the basement, they were greeted with the overwhelming smell of mothballs and noticed an anomaly in the dirt floor, they wrote.

They returned that day with a search warrant and excavated the basement floor, finding Cuevas body buried a foot deep, quicklime and mothballs mixed in with the dirt.

Her body was found wrapped in a tarp tied with rope and extension cord. An Autopsy revealed she suffered broken bones and stab and slash wounds, the affidavit states.

A pathologist ruled Cuevas died of asphyxiation.

Arrests and admissions

Throughout the probe, police interviewed numerous witnesses and suspects. Beamer, Doyle, Wolfe, and Race would all make incriminating statements, according to the police affidavit.

Through this, investigators were able to put together a timeline of Cuevas final weeks after Linnette, Doyle and Beamer allegedly beat her.

Multiple witnesses described Cuevas being handcuffed to items in the house, including a post in the basement. The affidavit says that she had to ask to use the bathroom and was only being fed bread and water at Linnettes direction.

Beamer admitted to digging her fingers into Cuevas eyes, punching her, and stabbing her, the affidavit states.

Doyle told police she regularly struck Cuevas and helped Linnette shave her head because no one could be prettier than Linnette, the affidavit states. Doyle said the hierarchy in the house had Linnette at the top, followed by Race, then Beamer, then everyone else.

All the interviewed suspects said Linnette had hit Cuevas in the face with a hammer, causing her to lose a tooth, affidavits state.

Race and Wolfe also told police they had engaged in torturing their prisoner, their handcuffs being used on her. Wolfe and Beamer told police Cuevas was killed during an escape attempt, with Wolfe saying he and Race kicked and stomped her.

Doyle gave a slightly different account, saying Beamer, Wolfe, and Race attacked Cuevas after she had soiled herself on being unable to make it to the bathroom. They then fetched a stethoscope, with which they determined Cuevas was dead, the affidavit states.

The group considered placing her body in an abandoned house down the street before electing to bury her in the basement, the affidavit states.

Police on Tuesday, April 9, arrested Linnette, Beamer, Doyle, Race, and Wolfe. District Attorney Sanguedolce said the Carlisle Street house was previously owned by a Debra Fox, who was last seen alive in January. Her body was found near an expressway in March.

Sanguedolce said the probe into Foxs death is ongoing, with investigators believing the two cases are related. He did say investigators dont believe Fox was involved in Cuevas killing. There is no mention of Fox in the affidavit related to Cuevas death.

Police noted in their affidavit this isnt the first time the house has played host to violence. In July 2023  after Cuevas death  a man was badly beaten at the Carlisle Street house. He told police Linette, Race, and two others kept him captive in the basement for hours and accused him of inappropriately touching a young girl.

MLive has reached out to several of Cuevas relatives but have not heard back. In a public Facebook post, her brother asked all messages be directed to him.

Im asking everyone to think about what my mother and our family are going through, the post states. We need support but talking about it is difficult ESPECIALLY for my mom. She needs time but all support is appreciated.

Her brother also alleged the family previously tried to file a missing person report for Cuevas.

Cuevas brother has also started a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral and travel expenses and for Cuevas children.

My sister was a good person and neither her nor her family deserves what happened, her brother wrote.

The Saginaw Police Department, Saginaw County Sheriffs Office, Michigan State Police, and Buena Vista Township Police Department have said no missing-person report for Cuevas had been filed with them.

The five suspects are scheduled for preliminary examinations on April 19.
A federal judge nixed a legal challenge from 11 Michigan Republican lawmakers to successful citizen-led petition initiatives expanding voting rights in 2018 and 2022, leaving measures like early voting and automatic voter registration unscathed ahead of the 2024 presidential contest.

On Wednesday, April 10, U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering dismissed a lawsuit from the GOP legislators that alleged the elections-related amendments to the state constitution sparked by the ballot initiatives were legally null-and-void and improperly bypassed the Michigan Legislature.

The suit sought to invalidate voting changes a majority of Michigan voters favored during the last two federal elections, in 2018 and 2022, as well as prevent the future use of citizen-led petitions to change elections rules.

Read more: Early voting, no-reason absentee is illegal, 11 Michigan Republicans contend

An appeal may be forthcoming.

I disagree with the judges decision to deny my right as a legislator to protect the role granted to me by the U.S. Constitution, said state Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, R-Coldwater, in a statement. When a federal judge misuses their power by denying a valid case to be heard, it damages our entire body politic. I look forward to appealing this decision.

Lindsey joined fellow state Sen. Jim Runestad, R-White Lake, and 9 GOP state representatives in filing the lawsuit against Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, as well as state Elections Director Jonathan Brater.

They argued in court that the elections changes brought about by the ballot initiatives violated a clause of the U.S. Constitution allowing state legislatures to set the time, place and manner of conducting elections, usurping their responsibilities as state lawmakers.

The lawmakers took aim Proposal 3 of 2018, passed with 67% of the vote, and Proposal 2 of 2022, approved with a 60% majority.

Proposal 3 enshrined the right to in-person, same-day voter registration with proof of residency, automatic voter registration and no-reason absentee voting into the state constitution, among other things.

Proposal 2 created a litany of new voting-related laws including nine days of early voting, requiring military or overseas ballots be counted if postmarked by Election Day and mandating state-funded absentee ballot drop boxes, as well as postage for absentee applications and ballots, among other measures.

In court, lawyers with the state Attorney Generals Office shot back that the GOP lawmakers lacked standing as individual legislators to challenge the voting changes, also noting that nearly all the measures have already been codified into law by the legislature.

Beckering agreed in a 13-page opinion and dismissed the case.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel called the lawsuit absurd and baseless from its inception in a statement.

Our democracy is participatory, and in Michigan citizen initiatives and referendums have long played a vital role in making our state government better reflect the values of our people. I am proud to stand up for democracy in Michigan, and will robustly defend our voters rights to their own constitution, and to work democratically to create the state and future they dream of, she said.

Benson, whose office is responsible for overseeing elections, also pushed back on the claim that Michiganders had no right to change election law via the petition process and at the ballot box.

The idea that the time, place and manner of federal elections law-making is beyond the right of voters to self-determine is anti-democratic, she said in a statement. I will always defend Michigan voters right to amend our constitution through ballot initiatives when elected representatives are unable or unwilling to uphold the will of the people.
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ZHENGZHOU, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Approximately 5,000 Chinese people attended a grand ceremony on Thursday morning in central China's Henan Province to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi, or the Yellow Emperor.

Held in Xinzheng City, the ceremonial rituals included firing salute cannons, presenting flower baskets, burning incense, a worshipping ceremony, and tributes through music and dance.

Sixty-four dancers performed Bayi, an iconic ceremonial dance in ancient China, while 99 Chinese zither players sat around, playing melodious ancient music.

"The ancestral worship ceremony is an important ritual in Chinese traditional culture, which showcases the profound cultural heritage, solidarity and progressive spirit of the entire Chinese nation," said Wang Runze, deputy head of the School of Journalism and Communication, Renmin University of China.

The ceremony was conducted simultaneously both on-site and online, allowing for wider participation and engagement.

In addition to the ceremony, numerous other activities were arranged, such as a merchants' conference, a cultural forum, and the start of a dedicated cultural week celebrating Huangdi.

March 3 on the Chinese lunar calendar, which fell on Thursday this year, is widely believed to be the birthday of Huangdi.

As a legendary common ancestor of the Chinese people, Huangdi was believed to have been born in the county-level city of Xinzheng, which is administered by the provincial capital Zhengzhou.

Xinzheng annually hosts grand ancestral worship ceremonies, initially organized spontaneously by local residents.

However, in the 1990s, the Xinzheng city government took the initiative to organize and promote these ceremonies, gradually elevating them into culturally significant events with widespread domestic and international influence.

Worshipping Huangdi is a tradition in China. The ceremony of ancestor worship in Huangdi's hometown was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008.
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When they were born on 24 August 1983 at Madlelenyoni, Ntabazinduna in Matabeleland North province, their family rejoiced as they were blessed with twins, and at that point  no one would have thought the pair of Samukelisiwe and Attalia Zhou would also die on the same day.

However, 41 years later, a dark cloud engulfed the Zhou family as they found themselves mourning their precious twins who were brutally gunned down in a horrific marital dispute that happened on 3 April in Beria, Johannesburg in South Africa, where they were based.

In a video circulating on social media, the elder brother of the late twins, Farai, said that Samukelisiwe was shot dead by her husband identified as Justin Mahlaba from Gokwe after the two had a marital dispute. The husband then shot Attalia. The two were killed during a family meeting, where the family was trying to resolve the couples differences. After killing the twins and trying to kill Farai and his wife, Justice also shot himself dead.

My sisters were shot dead last week when we were having a family meeting consisting of six people  myself, my two late sisters, my brother-in-law (late), my wife and my younger brother Freddy. We started the meeting with a prayer. Everyone narrated their views and one of the twin sisters who was the one married to Mahlaba told us that she wanted to separate from her husband as she was tired of being abused and that is when all hell broke loose, narrated Farai.

He continued, My brother-in-law got angry and took out a gun and shot his wife in our presence and Freddy then ran for his life. He then went on to shoot Attalia. He shot his wife for the second time when she showed some signs of life and went on to point the gun at my wife. Luckily, the gun malfunctioned and when my wife realised that, she ran for her life and she was saved by a neighbour who hid her in her house.

My brother-in-law then came back to the house after he failed to catch my wife and tried to shoot me but he failed as the gun jammed again. He then went to the balcony and I assumed that he wanted to throw himself off the balcony but after a few minutes, I heard a gunshot.

He had killed himself. I remained on the ground and waited for the police to come, said Farai.

During the course of the week, B-Metro visited the Zhou homestead at Madlelenyoni in Ntabazinduna where the twins will be laid to rest and the news crew was welcomed by a sombre atmosphere as the family was in the middle of an evening prayer session.

The late twins brother Thulani, said they were horrified by the incident as he described his sisters as non-violent people. He also said that what Justin did (killing his sisters) was uncalled for and said that the Mahlaba family has to appease the Zhou ancestors by paying a certain number of cows so that they can do a cleansing ceremony for the departed.

What usibare (brother-in-law) did is uncalled for. As a family, we are devastated by his actions because my sisters didnt deserve to die that way. Yes, they might have had a dispute with him but I believe the matter could have been dealt with in a better manner. They were very humble and quiet people as I never saw them fighting or being violent even during our times of growing up. We are at a great loss and for that, the Mahlaba family has to pay something so that we clean this Ngozi (avenging spirit), so that we appease the ancestors and allow our sisters to rest in peace, said Thulani.

The younger sister to the twins Ottilia, said she could not believe that her sisters were brutally murdered. The twins are said to have each left behind three children.

I really cant believe that they are truly gone. I am very heartbroken because my sisters died a painful death. They were non-violent people and I dont understand what came into my brother-in-laws mind. We are in pain at the same time this incident has to be a lesson to many to speak out if they have domestic disputes so that issues dont escalate to the extent of killing each other. We are appealing to the general public to help us in such a difficult time as this incident caught us unaware. We are hoping to bury our sisters on Sunday as their bodies will be repatriated on Saturday. We are asking well-wishers to assist us with what they have. They can contact us on 0784 257 166 or 0772 824 954, she said. BMetro.

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Over a decade of being an It city, were all pretty tired of showing folks around. Parking is expensive, traffic is awful, and half the stuff you loved back in 2013 has closed to make way for a steakhouse or office space that no one wants to rent.

But if you do a little digging, there are still places you can take visitors to see where Nashville came from. Bonus: You can easily walk the roughly two miles these spots span, starting in Germantown and ending at Printers Alley.

1. Assumption Church

Like most churches in the South, this one has a long story and an even longer name: Officially it's The Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Assumption part means that, when Mary died, God pulled her body directly into heaven to be reunited with her soul, rather than leaving it to rot in the ground until the end of time when all Christians bodies will be reunited with their souls. So thats dope, I suppose? Snaps for Mary!

As for Germantowns Assumption Church, it was:

Constructed in 1858

Built partially using reclaimed bricks from an even older building: Nashville's first Catholic Church, the Holy Rosary Cathedral

Occupied and pillaged by Union soldiers in 1864

Restored and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, and then

Seriously damaged by the 2020 tornados.

That last part, however, has a happy ending. The shattered stained-glass windows were removed, and the materials were sent to specialists near Milwaukee who have been doing this work for a cool 135 years. These people had to use a 2-inch-by-2-inch photo to re-create the Holy Family with the glass pieces, and you can see the window now, back in its original place on the north wall.

2. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

A few steps east of the Nashville Farmers' Market is Tennessees most unassuming museum. If youve ever lounged on the mall or gone to an event there, you know its picturesque and makes for a great place to snap a photo of the Capitol. What you may not know is how much history is packed into every square foot. Check out:

A 200-foot granite map of the state

This shows every county and major city in Tennessee. The towns marked by lights are the county seats. You obviously know these are the governmental hubs of each county, but which we are noting here just in case one of the people you bring is a know-it-all sixth-grader whod love to point out that you dont remember shit from Social Studies.

Rivers of Tennessee fountain

These are the water features you always see kids (and desperate adults) splashing in during the heat of summer. The fountains are made up of 31 geysers representing the states major lakes and rivers, with one big, long trough for the Mississippi River.

Walkway of counties

This big loop features one circular marker for each of the states 95 counties, and the walkway mimics the topography of the state by growing more hilly the farther east you walk. Guess whats under each marker. The bones of that countys first mayor. No  I kid, I kid. But there is a time capsule underneath each one thats set to be opened on Statehood Day (June 1) in 2096. At that point, Tennessee will be 300, and I (and the ozone layer) will be long gone, but I hope you guys have a blast.

Court of Three Stars

This court at the north end features the state seal surrounded by 50 columns and a 95-bell carillon. Whats a carillon? Apparently, its a musical instrument that consists of a set of at least 23 bells that can produce the notes of a Western scale. (Kids, let this be a reminder: There is no interest too niche to make a career out of it.)

The names of famous Tennessee musicians are inscribed around the court, and the three stars represent the state's Grand Divisions, which politicians are always talking about, but which just means that the state sort of naturally divides itself into:

The mountains of the East

The hills of Middle, and

The delta of the West

The coolest feature is that the bells play part of the Tennessee Waltz on the quarter-hour and the whole song at the top, and it is shockingly delightful to stand underneath them and hear  especially if you bring someone along who doesnt know its coming.

3. The Founding of Nashville and Fort Nashborough

If your first reaction to a statue of two dudes shaking hands is to immediately forget it, you are not alone. I blame my Bronze Statue Blindness on too many field trips in my youth, which is why Ive ignored this sculpture at Riverfront Park for 20 years. The story behind it, though, has stuck with me.

In the 1790s, settlers set up shop right here along the Cumberland River because James Robertson liked the freshwater spring, cedar trees and salt lick, which attracted wild game. (If youve ever heard the name French Lick, this salt deposit is where that comes from.) In 2017, the latest replica of Fort Nashborough was built on the spot where Robertson arrived on Christmas Eve 1779. Women and children followed by flatboat with the other handshaker, John Donelson, and by April, they had 300 people living in the fort.

Whats most interesting to me about this statue, though, is whos not in it. The story of Cherokee leader Chief Dragging Canoe is, of course, one that wasnt told much until recently. But he was the most vocal opponent of settlers moving into Indigenous lands, refusing to sign the treaty Robertson and Donelson et al. would use as the basis for taking over more and more Cherokee land over the years.

In 1781, Dragging Canoe led the Cherokee in the Battle of the Bluffs, luring men out of Fort Nashborough and cutting them off from the entrance. But most of the men escaped back to the fort, and that attack  and the others theyd wage over the next 15-plus years  ultimately failed. But they would succeed in one thing: proving Chief Dragging Canoe right. He predicted the sale of this land would result in the absolute devastation of the Cherokee in Middle Tennessee.

However, there is one badass footnote: Despite Dragging Canoe being run out of his own land, he died on his own terms. In 1792, he passed on, either from exhaustion or a heart attack, after dancing all night to celebrate his latest victory.

4. Smokey Row and the Idahoe

Twenty years later, Nashville was a frontier town, and many of the buildings downtown were brothels. The red-light district  the stretch from First to Fourth avenues along Church Street  was known as "Smokey Row," and it was teeming. By the time the city was occupied during the Civil War, the Union Army had a massive health crisis of STIs on their hands (and, I suppose, on other parts as well). Naturally, all the men blamed the working women, and they banished 1,500 lewd ladies from the city.

The most notable and horrific eviction happened in July 1863, when a riverboat called the Idahoe carried more than 100 women to Louisville, Ky.  which promptly sent them right back. For the next month, the Floating Whore House  their name, not mine!  was rejected at every port and eventually returned to Nashville. At that point, the Union army finally sacked up with a solution: legalizing prostitution. But that ended nearly as soon as the war did.

Still, as the History Channel points out, modern research would go on to show that when sex work is legal, the rates of STIs plummet. Yet more than 150 years later, the worlds oldest profession is still one of the worlds most illegal.

5. Printers Alley

Everyone knows Printers Alley has a bawdy, crazy, violent history, and you can read all about it here. But here are three quick stories for your back pocket.

David "Skull" Schulman

First, theres the story you probably already know of David Skull Schulman, who opened his nightclub in 1948 in Printers Alley. The Hee-Haw regular was called the Mayor of Printers Alley, often parading his poodles  one of whom was a gift from Elvis, and both of whom hed dye red and green at Christmas  on rhinestone leashes down the alley. To say this is instantly iconic behavior is an understatement, and the current iteration of Skulls Rainbow Room  a vibrant speakeasy-style restaurant replete with piano music, burlesque shows, and quality old-school cuisine  is a fitting tribute to Skull.

On Jan. 21, 1998, Schulman was robbed and murdered, his throat slit in broad daylight  a final sacrifice to the gods of chaos and urban blight. That last gorgeous turn of phrase is from another Scene article about the Alley that is worth a read, and you can find the whole story here, including the fact that Tanya Tucker rushed to Schulman's bedside before he died, Willie Nelson appeared on America's Most Wanted trying to catch the killer(s), and two drifters were eventually charged with the robbery and murder.

Climax Saloon

On the back side of the Dream hotel, you can still see the original facade of the Climax Saloon. From 1887 to 1918, this part of the Mens Quarter served up poker, billiards, moonshine, whiskey, stripteases and rooms upstairs that could be rented by the hour. Most awesomely, the building is said to have had secret passages and hiding places that the working women could use to hide out during police raids.

Full-service hotels

During Prohibition, operations in the Quarter had to go underground. But when the 18th Amendment was repealed in 1933, hoo boy, it was time to party. So much partying happened, in fact, that an investigation was launched in 1945 by my new favorite organization: the American Social Hygiene Association. Have you ever heard a more euphemistic name for an organization that fights venereal disease? A-plus branding. Anyway, if a soldier or officer needed a date, bellboys at the Noelle hotel or Maxwell House would procure them  something you rarely see advertised today on a can of Maxwell House coffee.
News and features from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM).
On Tuesday (09 April 2024), NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana visited the Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) Headquarters in Northwood, United Kingdom.

Mr Geoana met with the Commander of MARCOM, Vice Admiral Mike Utley and other key members of staff. The Deputy Secretary General and the Commanders discussions focused on the importance of MARCOM in NATOs new defence plans and the commands crucial role in keeping seaways between North America and Europe open. After recent damage to Baltic Sea underwater infrastructure, they also discussed how Allied navies and new technologies can better protect undersea infrastructure and the Alliances role in shielding subsea cables and pipelines.

Mr Geoana further highlighted the need for continued Western support to Ukraine, saying that the cost of allowing Russia to prevail would be far greater than the cost of supporting Ukraine now. The Deputy Secretary General and the Commander also discussed evolving missile and drone technologies, as well as how NATO can better adapt to the role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare. Warning that the Alliance is facing the greatest security challenges in a generation, Mr Geoana stressed MARCOMs central role in protecting NATOs one billion people.

During his trip to London, Mr Geoana met with the Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge, and the National Security Advisor for the United Kingdom, Sir Tim Barrow.

The Deputy Secretary General concluded his trip with an opening address at the third edition of the annual NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) Conference in London. This years conference focused on the deliverables for the Washington Summit, lessons learned from the war against Ukraine, and NATO IAMD adaption beyond the Summit.
From 14 to 16 April 2024, the NATO Deputy Secretary General, Mr Mircea Geoana, will travel to Italy together with Permanent Representatives to the North Atlantic Council.

On Sunday 14 April, Mr Geoana will be in Turin, where he will have meetings, including with representatives of the Italian defence industry.

On Monday 15 April, the Deputy Secretary General will travel to Cameri to visit the citys F-35 factory. Later, he will visit the NATO Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) and shipyards in La Spezia.

On Tuesday 16 April, following a visit on-board Cavour aircraft carrier, Mr Geoana will be in Rome, where he will meet with the Minister of Defence, Mr Guido Crosetto, and an informal meeting of Permanent Representatives will take place at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Deputy Secretary General will also participate in the Societa Italiana per lOrganizzazione Internazionale (SIOI) Rome International Conference organized in cooperation with the NATO Public Diplomacy Division to celebrate NATOs 75th Anniversary.

Media coverage

A transcript of the Deputy Secretary Generals remarks will be on the NATO website.



For more information:

For general queries: Contact the NATO Press Office

Follow us on X (@NATO, @Mircea_Geoana and @NATOPress)
Chemtrail conspiracies have become reality, as corporate media sells geoengineering as the solution for climate change

Once considered conspiracy theory by the entire corporate media, geoengineering is now being lauded as the solution for climate change . For years, the media was used to gaslight the public about this reality and coverup this mass experimentation in the skies. These geoengineering experiments are conducted without human consent, and they adversely affect the environment, the weather and human health.

Corporate media is programmed to gaslight and deceives the public about geoengineering and chemtrails

One of the most important developments lately, in this fight for the future of humanity, is a new law in Tennessee that blocks geoengineering across the state. If word gets out about people protecting themselves from these chemtrails, then the entire U.S. might become a no-fly zone for weather modification schemes and the intentional spraying and dumping of toxins and chemicals onto the people, the cities and countryside. The Mexican government became aware of these schemes and banned the large scale experiments immediately.

Now that the public is becoming more aware of the existence of these unethical experiments, the corporate media is being used to promote these geoengineering schemes as if they are a new thing that will save the planet from global warming.

A new report from San Francisco, California claims that the U.S. is conducting its first outdoor test to limit global warming. The project is derived from a controversial field of research known as solar radiation modification. These schemes, financed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, require aerosols to be shot into the stratosphere, where the particles allegedly reflect sunlight away from the Earth. But how do these microscopic salt particles affect the ecosystem?

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

Chemtrail experiment launched out of San Francisco Bay, set to last two months

A decommissioned aircraft carrier, equipped with the aerosol injections, was launched out of the San Francisco Bay at the end of March 2024. The aircraft is equipped with specially designed sprayers that can shoot trillions of sea salt particles into the sky. The experiment allegedly seeks to increase the density and capacity of marine clouds to reduce solar radiation in the region. The operation increases cloud cover over the region, artificially blocking out the sun, and making the population susceptible to unknown experimental particles that will inevitably rain down over the land.

This is all part of an unethical project led by researchers at the University of Washington. The project is called CAARE, which stands for The Coastal Atmospheric Aerosol Research and Engagement. The experiments are scheduled to run through April and May. The area affected includes the skies surrounding the USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum in Alameda, California.

The secrecy surrounding these projects is beginning to unwind, as criminal conspiracies become more transparent. Going forward, these conspiracies will be sold to the public under a guise of benevolence and scientific achievement.

"Since this experiment was kept under wraps until the test started, we are eager to see how public engagement is being planned and who will be involved," said Shuchi Talati, the executive director of the Alliance for Just Deliberation on Solar Geoengineering, a nonprofit that seeks to include developing countries in decisions about geoengineering.

"While it complies with all current regulatory requirements, there is a clear need to reexamine what a strong regulatory framework must look like in a world where [solar radiation modification] experimentation is happening," she added.

A similar project authored by Harvard University sought to use the skies over Sweden as testing grounds for reflective aerosols. The project was halted after indigenous groups pushed back. By blocking out the sun, weather patterns can be altered for millions of people in unknown ways. Artificial cloud seeding can have ripple effects for the entire world.

Man-made climate change is not the most pressing problem. Globalist-funded geoengineering schemes and large-scale intervention in the skies could greatly impact our weather and climate, causing unforeseen problems for farmers, fisheries and ecosystems, among many other environmental and human health impacts.

Sources include:

ScientificAmerican.com

Tennesean.com

ThePeoplesVoice.tv

Drive.Google.com

NaturalNews.com

Subscriber.Politicopro.com
Hawaii lawmakers force journalist group to ensure its sources are ethical and objective

Lawmakers in the state of Hawaii have forced a journalist group to vet their news sources for "ethics and objectivity," sparking a debate on misinformation and freedom of the press.

Reclaim The Net reported that state senators in the Aloha State are trying to get the Hawaii professional chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) to formulate a "new process" to ensure its sources are "ethical and objective." To this end, the Hawaii State Senate (HSS) issued a resolution asking the SPJ to find a way to carry out such evaluation and ensure its sources adhere to this process.

The said resolution was passed by the HSS' Judiciary Committee with no opposition or abstention, and is now headed for adoption by the whole floor. Democratic State Sen. Chris Lee, who introduced the resolution, said it serves as a way to "help" the public understand who might be spreading "misinformation." He added that he hears people in the community repeating so-called misinformation "nearly every day." (Related: UT Austin students behind CENSORSHIP initiative targeting conservative news outlets.)

"Unless you take that extra step and look into it, you can't tell the difference between what you're seeing on a post on social media versus what might be on a post from a reputable news organization that has vetted the information and is operating under ethical and transparent conduct," Lee explained.

Government is trying to establish Ministry of Truth

The HSS' resolution is non-binding, meaning that the SPJ would just be requested to conduct the study if it passes the upper chamber of the Aloha State's legislature.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

But according to Reclaim The Net, Lee's comments reveal what he considers true information. Only those coming from so-called "reputable news organizations" and not social media posts are deemed as such. The site added that the state senator's faith in "reputable" outlets seems to stem from their supposed ethical and transparent professional practices.

The resolution can be interpreted as a form of pressure on the SPJ's chapter in the Aloha State. It also serves as an insult to the average American by claiming that in such circumstances, the average person finds it "difficult to distinguish truth from fiction." Given this, the resolution opined that the new process the SPJ is mandated to follow should be of help.

In addition to pushing for protection of unbiased reporting and truth and countering "misinformation," it also speaks about the digital economy causing the downfall of independent local media. In this context, the text continues, legacy media consolidated and became "increasingly more expensive to access for Americans."

This difficulty has permitted social media to take up this space, per the resolution's authors. They warned that "some organizations and individuals with broad reach presenting themselves as news sources to intentionally or inadvertently spread misinformation."

Not everyone shared Lee's stance, however. Citizens who submitted testimony against the measure wrote that they did not want any government entities deciding what news sources are reputable.

One obvious point of criticism stated that government bodies shouldnt have the power to "anoint" one news source as more reputable than another. Doing so would bring society closer to having the Ministry of Truth.

The Ministry of Truth is based on the Ministry of Information in Britain during World War II that created propaganda and censored war details. In other words, it is focused on creating lies.

Visit FreePress.news for more stories like this.

Watch this video about the fate of the now-disbanded Disinformation Governance Board under the Department of Homeland Security in 2022.

This video is from Doctor Patriot channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

MINISTRY OF TRUTH: 12 state attorneys general demand Big Tech platforms eliminate all speech from people injured by vaccines.

Ministry of Truth: Wikipedia editors feverishly change article on recessions to Match Biden talking points.

Ministry of Truth: Joe Bidens new disinformation board director is a Ukrainian govt advisor who was pleased by the censorship of Hunter Bidens hard drive.

The war on truth.

The official truth: The end of free speech that will end America.

Sources include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

Brighteon.com
From the depths of hell: Inside the profound evil of transgender ideology

Christian journalist Brandon Showalter joins me on today's episode of The John-Henry Westen Show to discuss the horrific physical consequences of 'sex changes,' the stories of detransitioners, the spiritual dimension of this crisis, and more.

(Article by John-Henry Westen republished from LifeSiteNews.com)

If youre a regular reader of LifeSiteNews, you know just how much gender ideology has taken over our culture. But a lot of us dont know the internal side of gender ideology  the stories of young people who were led astray by it and have suffered horrific physical, mental, and emotional consequences.

My guest on todays episode of The John-Henry Westen Show is Brandon Showalter, journalist at the Christian Post and host of a podcast exposing the evils of gender ideology called Generation Indoctrination.

Showalter, who says he was thrown into covering LGBT issues when he first started at the Christian Post in 2016, starts by describing meteoric rise of gender clinics in the United States and the atrocious things they do to children. For instance, the combination of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones will almost certainly render a child [permanently] sterile.

Since when did it become ethical to sterilize a child, especially when theres no disease like cancer, where  you might lose your fertility because youve got drugs for chemo and radiation? he says. Gender confusion  [is] a psychological condition that does not warrant a hormonal or surgical intervention. So its a disgraceful practice. It should never happen in my opinion.

Even worse are the gruesome surgeries for both boys and girls that involve amputation of genitals and the construction of fake genitals to correspond with the sex they are seeking to be transitioned to. Showalter says there are major financial incentives for hospitals to perform these surgeries, but also significant ideological indoctrination from schools and the media that tell children these drugs and surgeries can help them become their authentic self.

This is neo-Gnosticism on steroids, literally, he adds. And its happening to young people, very young people, including teenagers as young as 13 or 14 years old.

With regard to fake genitals, doctors will need to harvest and remove parts of the childs skin  from the abdomen or forearm, for example  a process which undoubtedly leaves lifelong scars. Not only that, these Frankenstein surgeries, as Showalter calls them, can only approximate the working parts and thus dont even serve much of an actual bodily function.

This is intentionally damaging the body in pursuit of a physiological impossibility. This is surgery in pursuit of a lie, he says. A surgery should never be done to remove a physically healthy body part. Medical ethics is just dead as a doornail, in my opinion, that this would be something doctors or surgeons would ever do.

As for what regular people can do to help end this crisis, Showalter urges all Christians to pray daily for divine deliverance from the evils of gender ideology.

There are stories in Scripture where all hope seems lost and that were up against seemingly insurmountable odds. But God then shows up, and He uses a remnant of people, he says. If we pray, and if we set our faces like flint, and we believe that God is for us and not against us  and that He loves the little children  [Jesus] has very harsh words for those who harm them  If we pray, I believe we will see this wickedness dismantled in the realm of the spirit.

And if youre led to other kinds of action, then thats just between you and the Lord. Whatever He tells you to do, do it.

For much more from Brandon Showalter, tune in to this episode of The John-Henry Westen Show.

Read more at: LifeSiteNews.com
Mark Zuckerberg overtakes Elon Musk as third wealthiest person in the world

Mark Zuckerberg has overtaken Elon Musk to become the third-richest person in the world

Musk ranked first on Bloomberg's Billionaire Index in early March. In just one month's time he has fallen to fourth place, with this latest loss coming after Reuters reported that his electric car company Tesla had canceled plans to release a less-expensive car, which sent shares tumbling.

This followed news earlier in the week that Tesla's vehicle deliveries had fallen in the three months up to March. This is the company's first year-over-year decline in deliveries since the early days of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in 2020.

Musks wealth has shrunk by $48.4 billion this year, while Zuckerberg has added $58.9 billion to his fortune as Facebook parent company Meta Platforms Inc.'s value climbs to fresh highs, including a new record-high on Friday, April 5.

Its the first time Zuckerberg has broken into the top three on Bloombergs ranking of the richest people since Nov. 16, 2020, when he was worth $105.6 billion and Musk's fortune was $102.1 billion. Musk now has a net worth of $180.6 billion, while Zuckerbergs fortune is $186.9 billion. (Related: Jeff Bezos regains title of world's richest person, overtaking Elon Musk for the first time since 2021.)

The reversal of the wealth gap between Musk and Zuckerberg, which was as big as $215 billion in November 2021, illustrates how once-hot electric vehicle stocks have been usurped by Big Tech, especially when these tech companies involve themselves in the burgeoning artificial intelligence market.

We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Explore our decentralized, peer-to-peer, uncensorable Brighteon.io free speech platform here. Learn about our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance.

Tesla shares have fallen 34 percent this year, making it the worst performer in the S&P 500 Index. Its been battered by a global slowdown in EV demand, growing competition in China and production problems in Germany. Meta, meanwhile, has surged 49 percent, thanks to strong quarterly earnings and excitement about the companys AI initiatives. It is currently the fifth-best performer on the S&P 500.

Rivalry between Zuckerberg and Musk deepens

The two billionaires' rivalry extends beyond their wealth: Musk and Zuckerberg have been engaged in an ongoing public spat that intensified when Meta launched Threads, a social-media platform meant to compete with Musk's X, formerly Twitter.

The two even traded barbs last year regarding a possible mixed martial arts fight, with Musk, 52, claiming that he would be willing to fight Zuckerberg, 39, "anywhere, anytime."

Musks net worth could take a further hit after his $55 billion Tesla pay package was struck down by a Delaware judge. The Bloomberg Billionaires Index continues to use the options from that pay package, which are one of Musks largest assets, in its calculations of his wealth.

Zuckerberg derives most of his wealth from his 13 percent stake in Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Its shares have surged 43 percent this past year.

In contrast, Musk's net worth has plummeted by $40 billion. While Meta and several other "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks have climbed higher, Tesla has tumbled 29 percent. It's been dragged down by investors' worries about a slowdown in global demand for its electric vehicles.

Learn more about Musk and Zuckerberg, respectively, at ElonMuskWatch.com and MarkZuckerberg.news.

Watch this report from Breanna Morello and Dr. Kirk Elliott regarding how billionaires like Musk and Zuckerberg are selling their stocks in anticipation of a market crash.

This video is from the channel MyPodcastDropped2320 on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

BULKING UP: Mark Zuckerberg loading up on McDonalds amid potential MMA bout with Elon Musk.

Elon Musk prefers noble debate over cage fight with Mark Zuckerberg.

Zuckerbergs Meta releases new censorship unit for upcoming elections.

Meta BANS Instagram accounts of Irans Supreme Leader Khamenei.

Former Meta director says Instagram FAILED to protect teen users.

Sources include:

Bloomberg.com

Reuters.com

Brighteon.com
New data protection bill in the U.K. expands ability of banks and corporations to surveil customers

A bill is currently making its way through the parliament of the United Kingdom, which could grant the country's government with extraordinary new financial surveillance powers

The Data Protection and Digital Information (DPDI) bill proposes changes to the U.K.'s General Data Protection Regulations, which provide the foundation for the rules and principles that govern how organizations within the U.K. use personal data. (Related: Most Brits feel they are victims of "sonic snooping," and cybersecurity experts believe they're right.)

Lawyers, academics and other privacy activists are warning that the changes being proposed by the DPDI would actually erode the privacy rights of British citizens, especially in the context of personal data.

One main concern is that the DPDI gives banks expanded powers to monitor the accounts of private citizens under the premise of being on the lookout for fraud and errors in welfare payouts. If banks find concerns, they can flag the accounts of people who meet as-yet-unpublished criteria to the government.

Another cause for concern is the fact that the DPDI bill removes the right of British citizens to not be subjected to automated decision-making without their consent, especially where the decision has a profound legal or "similarly significant effect." The government claims it will replace this right with safeguards, but critics have warned that these are "inadequate."

Other critics have highlighted how the DPDI weakens crucial data protection rights and could leave people in Britain even more vulnerable to exploitation, especially by tech giants.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

"The effects will be stark. The power imbalance between individuals and large corporations, especially Big Tech and public services, will widen drastically," said Ann Kristin Glenster of the University of Cambridge.

"Data protection was meant to guarantee fundamental rights that could not be sold or bartered away. The [DPDI] does just that," warned Glenster.

Brexit, economic interests influencing British government's push to pass DPDI

Analysts have pointed out that the British government is very interested in passing the DPDI so that it could create a more "business-friendly regime" within the country, especially when the data of Brits is transferred to continental Europe.

Currently, businesses in the U.K. and the EU can freely share personal data across borders. But the DPDI could weaken the levels of protection given to data in Britain when compared to the protections given in the European Union.

To prevent any potential breaches of data, the EU could restrict data transfers between the bloc and the U.K., presenting businesses on both sides of the English Channel with major bureaucratic challenges.

Since leaving the EU, data the continent receives from the U.K. has benefited from an "adequacy decision" made by the European Commission, which indicates that the transfer of personal data from Europe to third countries is prohibited if those countries do not guarantee an "adequate level of protection" for the data. Some third countries, such as the United States, are judged to have sufficiently robust data protection laws to be granted an "adequacy finding," enabling the free flow of personal data to continue.

But the U.K.'s coverage under this adequacy decision rests on Britain not diverging from European data protection standards. If it does, the Commission can and will revoke the adequacy decision.

If this happens, transfers of data from the U.K., to the EU and then to third countries will rest on businesses being responsible for implementing their own safeguards to ensure that the data is protected to sufficient standards, raising concerns that corporations  especially large and highly influential ones  might not fulfill the mandate of providing sufficient protections for personal data.

Nevertheless, the British government has hailed the latest version of the DPDI bill as a "Brexit dividend" that would create a more business-friendly data protection regime within the U.K. that supposedly upholds individual rights to privacy while at the same time promoting growth and innovation.

According to the government, the DPDI bill "would seize the post-Brexit opportunity to boost the economy by 4.7 billion pounds [$5.97 billion] over the next decade."

Watch this clip of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, currently under arrest in the U.K., speaking about the importance of free speech.

This video is from the channel Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.K. authorities have given themselves the power to surveil, harass and jail whistleblowers under the new British National Security Act.

U.K.'s "Online Safety Act" OFFICIALLY grants MSM permission to publish LIES.

British police secretly using U.K. passport database to conduct facial recognition searches.

U.K. government departments are SECRETLY MONITORING critics on social media and BLACKLISTING them.

U.K. passes Online Safety Bill in latest attack targeting online free speech and privacy in Britain.

Sources include:

Expose-News.com

EqualityHumanRights.com

ICLG.com

TheRegister.com

Brighteon.com
Outdoor apparel company The North Face named as major sponsor of LGBT youth camp that grooms kids to become drag queens

Outdoor apparel company The North Face (TNF) has been named as a major sponsor of an LGBT youth camp that grooms children into drag queens.

InfoWars reported that the Denver-based TNF was among the sponsors of Camp Brave Trails. The program, which brands itself as an "overnight summer camp specially designed" for children between 12 and 17 years old who identify as LGBT, was established in 2015. Camp Brave Trails, which has locations in California and New York, seeks to "empower future LGBTQ+ leaders" in various ways  including by having them meet with "adult mentors."

But in reality, Camp Brave Trails serves as a venue to groom the next generation into accepting depravity and gender confusion. Multiple videos about the camp show children involved in cross-dressing and pursuing ambiguous "gender identities." Juvenile participants in the camp are also being indoctrinated into blurring the lines of gender, mainly through facilities such as "genderless" bathrooms and housing.

Camp Brave Trails founders Kayla and Jessica Weissbuch  a lesbian couple  attested to this during an appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show." Kayla told program host and "American Idol" winner Kelly Clarkson: "All of our housing is genderless, bathrooms are genderless, we ask for names and pronouns all the time from campers and they can change them all they like." (Related: The North Face, Target now funding LGBT youth camp teaching children to be "genderless" drag stars.)

At the end of the segment, Clarkson announced that food company Conagra would donate $10,000 to the camp. The Chicago-based Conagra owns iconic food brands such as Birds Eye, Duncan Hines, Reddi-wip and Slim Jim.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Use our decentralized, blockchain-based, uncensorable free speech platform at Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

Breitbart News meanwhile reported, citing the Daily Wire, that TNF has been a long-time sponsor of the camp. According to the Wire, the outdoor apparel giant had donated more than $70,000 to help the camp. Two other shoe companies  Toms and Brooks  have also supported Camp Brave Trails.

Target previously sponsored Camp Brave Trails

Incidentally, the Breitbart News report also disclosed that big-box retailer Target had previously donated to Camp Brave Trails. The LGBT camp itself announced this in 2022, saying that it would be a beneficiary of the retailer's Target Circle program. "We are honored and excited to announce that we have been chosen to participate in a special charitable giving campaign, sponsored and funded by Target," the camp said at the time.

Both Target and TNF received backlash for their promotion of the gay agenda. The outdoor apparel giant came under fire for its advertisement that featured drag queen Pattie Gonia (born Wyn Wiley). Promotional materials featuring the drag queen urged the public to "come out" in nature  a nod to the concept of coming out, i.e. being openly gay.

Meanwhile, Target drew flak for the LGBT merchandise it carried in June 2023, which coincided with the Pride month of that year. Among the items it carried on its shelves were "tuck-friendly" bathing suits for males pretending to be women and "light binding" swim apparel for females who wish to pretend as men.

Even worse, the big-box retailer carried items from designer Abprallen that featured satanic imagery. Some of the controversial merchandise include a "Too Queer for Here" tote bag and a sweatshirt that had the slogan "Cure Transphobia, Not Trans People." But the item that garnered the most attention was a shirt that had the slogan "Satan respects pronouns"  bolstering the demonic and twisted nature of LGBT. (Related: Target launches new "Satanist Pride" line of LGBTQ+ clothing for CHILDREN, prompting anti-woke boycott.)

Head over to GayMafia.news for similar stories.

Watch Glenn Beck explain why The North Face's advertisement with drag queen Pattie Gonia is offensive, even to gays.

This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Why The North Face is a cesspool of libtard idiocy and stunning ignorance about the role of petroleum in modern fabrics.

The North Face unleashes trans-pushing commercial with adult drag queen demanding that children "come out!"

Boycott threat prompts Target to remove perverse, pedophilic LGBT clothing for children from some stores.

Target DOUBLES DOWN on WOKEISM by promoting LGBT Pride strategist.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com 1

Breitbart.com 1

Breitbart.com 2

InfoWars.com 2

Brighteon.com
Sierra Leone stationing armed police outside cemeteries to prevent graverobbers from STEALING HUMAN BONES for use as drug ingredients

The West African nation of Sierra Leone has begun stationing armed police outside of cemeteries in an effort to thwart drug addicts from attempting to plunder human remains for ingredients to be used in the creation of a potent psychoactive "zombie" drug whose spread has gripped the country.

The move comes after President Julius Maada Bio declared a national emergency to combat the widespread abuse of the locally concocted drug nicknamed "kush," which is a dangerous mix of marijuana, fentanyl, tramadol, formaldehyde and, in some instances, ground up human bones. (Related: Philadelphia's "Zombieland" Kensington neighborhood continues to suffer from spread of "tranq" drug.)

The drug was first reported in Sierra Leone in 2018. It is known to give a hypnotic high that can last for several hours. In recent years, abuse of kush has surged and has become an unprecedented challenge for the country, leading to hundreds of deaths and severe psychiatric harm to thousands of other people.

"Our country is currently faced with an existential threat due to the ravaging impact of drugs and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug kush," warned Bio.

In an effort to stymie the manufacturing of kush, the government has deployed armed police to safeguard cemeteries in the capital of Freetown. Reports indicate that graverobbers have been raiding burial sites under the cover of darkness.

The alarming trend of using ground-up human bones has prompted intensified efforts by law enforcement to combat grave robbery, particularly in the Racecourse Cemetery in Freetown, where the local gang known as the "Kush Boys" have been implicated in the tampering of graves.

We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Explore our decentralized, peer-to-peer, uncensorable Brighteon.io free speech platform here. Learn about our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance.

Drug abuse in Sierra Leone reaching catastrophic levels

Dr. Harold Thomas of the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation underscored the severity of the situation, with admissions to psychiatric hospitals skyrocketing by nearly 4,000 percent between 2020 and 2023.

The entire nation of nearly nine million people currently only has one functioning drug rehabilitation center in Freetown, which is a 100-bed facility hurriedly set up in an army training center earlier this year to deal with the drug abuse crisis. It has been described as "more of a holding center than a rehab" due to the lack of proper facilities for caring for addicts.

The government is implementing a strategy of breaking the drug supply chain through "investigations, arrests and prosecutions." Bio has also set up a task force to eradicate the drug and to create centers in every district "adequately staffed by trained professionals to offer care and support to people with drug addiction."

If Sierra Leone is unable to get its crisis under control, experts warn that the drug's allure, coupled with widespread unemployment and conflicts across West Africa, could make the drug spread across the entire region.

Dr. Abdul Jalloh of the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital said current government efforts, including the declaration of a state of emergency, are "the right step" and will be "crucial in addressing drug use."

Learn more about the effects of illicit drugs at Overdose.news.

Watch this video showing how drug addiction has turned people into "zombies" in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia.

This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Mexican drug cartels fighting over control of Montana, "the last best place" to sell illicit substances in America.

UN report: Cocaine smuggling and production increase amid growing demand for illicit substances.

Flesh-eating zombie drug tranq now FLOODING the streets of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles having problems tracking zombie drug xylazine because it is technically LEGAL there.

Democrat-run metro cities overrun with ZOMBIE DRUG "TRANQ" that's cooked down into power form and mixed with heroin and fentanyl  eats human flesh.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

NDTV.com

WIONews.com

Brighteon.com
BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The recent meeting of Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, with a Taiwan delegation led by Ma Ying-jeou has injected stability and positive energy into the relations across the Taiwan Strait. Wednesday's meeting in Beijing marked the first time Xi had received Taiwan compatriots and delivered an important speech since the 20th CPC National Congress in late 2022. The meeting took place amidst a complex and challenging situation in the Taiwan Strait. "Taiwan independence" separatists, in collusion with external forces, have made provocations to seek independence, further escalating tensions in the Strait. Xi's speech, filled with deep affection and goodwill towards Taiwan compatriots, will surely further unite compatriots on both sides of the Strait to achieve national reunification. Throughout its development journey, the Chinese nation has created a history demonstrating the inseparable connection between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. Although the mainland and Taiwan are yet to be reunified, the fact that both belong to one China and one nation has never changed, and national reunification remains an irreversible trend. Confronted with the activities of "Taiwan independence" separatists colluding with foreign forces to undermine the development of their shared homeland, every member of the Chinese nation must unite in resolve to oppose and crack down on such actions. Compatriots across the Taiwan Strait should join hands to create a bright future of peaceful reunification, firmly holding the destiny of the Chinese nation in their own hands. During the meeting, Xi emphasized that improving the well-being of people across the Strait is the driving force and objective behind efforts to advance cross-Strait relations. He underscored the mainland's genuine sincerity and goodwill in benefiting Taiwan compatriots. The mainland will continue enhancing systems and policies aimed at improving the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, maintaining its commitment to ensuring a better life for people on both sides of the Strait. The mainland has always kept its doors open to Taiwan compatriots, actively fostering cross-Strait exchanges, interactions, and mutual understanding. It also unites all sectors of Taiwan society for concerted efforts to eliminate political obstacles and facilitate normal and regular exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in advancing cross-Strait relations, the mainland will implement more vigorous policies and measures to facilitate the sound development and success of youth across the Taiwan Strait.
? La presidenta de la republica, Dina Boluarte, coordino las acciones que se desarrollaran en las proximas horas al declararse el estado de emergencia en #Arequipa. Esto luego de sostener una reunion de trabajo con alcaldes y las mas altas autoridades del @Poder_Judicial_ y de pic.twitter.com/LOYNxRGinN
Since COVID, theres been something just as weird about all those rampaging mobs  protestors, migrants, shoplifters and terroristsas there is about the virus and those wildfires

Retail outlets coast to coastand especially in our once-wondrous cities, from San Francisco to Chicago to New Yorkare under serial attack, plundered by brash hordes of shoplifters whose blatant theft goes on and on without the slightest interference by police, and even with a startling acquiescence by the retailers themselves. If someone grabs a load of merchandise, and runs away with it, its often not the pillager who gets in trouble, but the employee who tries to stop the crime:

(Article by Mark Crispin Miller republished from MarkCrispinMiller.Substack.com)

Weor those of us with eyes wide opensaw this kind of thing throughout the Days of Rage provoked by George Floyds murder (assuming he was murdered), as we see in this video taken by a friend of mine in Chelsea, New York City, as protestors coolly trashed his building with New York Citys finest looking on. (My friends account is just below this video.)

The attack took place on June 1, 2020. I have many additional videos of rioting and attacks on buildings from around town that day. The videos presented here are of the attack on my building in Chelsea, with the feeling of being planned and coordinated.

Cars rolled up and commenced lightning strikes on the Gristedes on the ground floor of my building, which contains a pharmacy. The liquor store was also attacked. At least two cars from outside of the neighborhood and possibly out of state rolled up and disgorged attackers with the appropriate tools.

In the first video, the car that they come out of is in the extreme right of frame. In subsequent videos, there are close ups. You will see the first cop car swing by, which somehow felt like it was more of a helpful timing notice than an effort to scare off the attackers. In a later video, another car stops to let out yet another group. Then the cops finally arrive en masse, but they soon leave. At that point neighborhood folks from the nearby projects fill in to loot where the pros in car left off. One of the locals was heard to sadly comment, Were destroying our own neighborhood.

Youd have to be a very trusting soulor, one might say, a simpletonto see such actions as spontaneous eruptions, based on mass privation and collective rage (as after MLKs assassination, or the verdict over Rodney Kings assault by rthe LAPD), and not as operations managed from on high. The cops bizarre inaction tells us that these COVID-era rampages have been organized against the rest of us, not by the shoplifters or protestors or rioters themselves, but by the same exalted players who hatched the virus, spread the terror over it, pushed (and are still pushing) vaccination, made heroes of the Nazis in Ukraine, incinerated Maui (among other once-idyllic places), trashed essential infrastructure and otherwise promoted hell on Earth. In short, those handy mobsalso including both Antifa and their fascist adversaries (both blocs guided by state agents), the migrants strangely favored all throughout the West, and the federal performers in the Capitol on January 6do not represent the triumph of mere anarchy, since they are but the shock troops in the ongoing dirty war against the human world.

Of course, such high manipulation is, in itself, nothing new, since its long been an imperial tactic to divide, subdue and/or misdirect the masses. Just as the British had the Indians attack white settlements, the Czars whipped up pogroms to distract the Russian masses, and the Robber Barons hobbled labor by recruiting scabs, so have the powers that be always reached down to keep themselves above it all. Thus COINTELPRO and the like had agents infiltrate, harass, divide and frame the Panthers, moved Weatherman to nihilistic violence, and then went after Progressive Labor in the Seventies, when they also created the Symbionese Liberation Army (which slipped its leash)all to sabotage the left, and give it a bad name. Elsewhere the CIA repeatedly manipulated crowds and funded factions to help bring down wayward regimes, as in Teheran in 1953, and Chile two decades later (to pick just two of numerous examples); and there is evidence of much the same high hand behind such seeming rogue jihadi movements as ISIS and al Qaeda.

A Chilean protest of Salvador Allendes policies, choreographed by the CIA

And yet, while such manipulation is itself an ancient trick, its global use today is something new, with nation after nation crumbling under this worldwide assault on all the rest of us, and on our sovereign states, in furtherance of the globalist agenda. This planetary operation now obliges us to take a closer look at all the mobs at work today, rampaging as if out of nowhereincluding even Hamas, whose bloody foray on October 7 was evidently not the bold stroke lauded by its Western celebrants for besting Israels mighty government, but yet another operation which that very government allowed to happenjust as on 9/11, or like those city cops who let those weaponized shoplifters do their thing. As many an Israeli knows full well (though our free press has blacked out that awareness), Hamas and the IDF apparently colluded in that operation, which has paid off for the globalists not only in more deaths among the rest of us, but also by dividing nearly all humanity more bitterly than ever, as both antisemitism and Islamophobia appear to be at least as virulent as in the Middle Ages.

It is to force us all into that Great Leap Backward that its crackpot authors have been mobbing us nonstop, to have us burning up with hatred for each other, instead of joining forces to go after them at last.

Read more at: MarkCrispinMiller.Substack.com
CIA officer confirms it has advisors in Ukraine  a well-known secret

Another undercover video has dropped to show prolific corruption within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Gavin O'Blennis, a contracting officer at the CIA, spilled the beans to what he apparently thought was a simple date. What he did not realize was that it was an undercover journalist he was speaking to who was probing for information about important matters such as U.S. corruption in Ukraine.

O'Blennis told the undercover reporter that the CIA does, in fact, have secret "advisors" in Ukraine, this being "a well-known secret" within the deep state agency. These advisors, O'Blennis further revealed, operate "under State Department cover."

The video footage, which was captured on March 28, 2024, also shows O'Blennis discussing the border crisis with illegal migrants. According to O'Blennis, "they're not going to qualify," referring to asylum seekers.

"Do it enough times, you get a sympathetic ear," O'Blennis continued about how illegals are being let in anyway.

BREAKING: CIA Officer CONFIRMS CIA Advisors in Ukraine A Well-Known Secret Under State Department Cover Border Asylum Process: Most Know Theyre Not Going to QualifyDo It Enough Times, You Get a Sympathetic Ear Says CIA Could Benefit From TikTok Breakup: Thats Why pic.twitter.com/677QvKvQSR  Sound Investigations (@SoundInvestig) April 11, 2024

(Related: O'Blennis also revealed that the CIA "can put anyone in jail" by "setting 'em up," this revelation prompting Alex Jones to announce a lawsuit against the three-letter agency.)

Banning TikTok benefits CIA

Concerning the social media platform TikTok, O'Blennis further revealed that one of the reasons why Congress, and especially Republicans, are trying to ban it from the U.S. is because it is a threat to the CIA's criminal racket.

"That's why they're passing the law now to make 'em do it," O'Blennis said about congressional efforts to outlaw TikTok, a platform that unlike many of its competitors allows for the quick and easy spread of information that would otherwise be censored on the other platforms for "misinformation."

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

O'Blennis is also familiar with the inner workings of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which he says routinely seizes money from foreigners just because."

The FBI regularly targets people "we don't like," O'Blennis revealed, or for "no reason" just "because we could."

The New York Times actually ran a story about CIA corruption in Ukraine, spilling the beans as well about how the CIA is secretly helping Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

"The U.S. government is the largest, most evil criminal organization on earth," one person on X wrote in response to O'Blennis' revelations. "How do you even fix a system this out-of-this-world corrupt?"

"Three letter agencies are more corrupt than most people would believe," wrote another. "It's time to wake up."

Another shared the following video exposing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) propaganda at the FBI:

DEI in FBI? pic.twitter.com/Ia8QN8o8j6  Entertain Me HQ (@EntertainMeHQ) April 11, 2024

Another shared the following political cartoon showing that, for all intents and purposes, there is a hidden fourth branch of the U.S. government run by the FBI, the CIA, the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA):

DEI in FBI? pic.twitter.com/Ia8QN8o8j6  Entertain Me HQ (@EntertainMeHQ) April 11, 2024

Then, there is this little gem depicting the true nature of American politics:

"Our government is truly evil," said someone else.

"And we wonder why so many despise us as a country," another added. "We're the shadiest government in the world. Man, we need massive changes in D.C. You can add the Justice Department as well to the list of corrupt agencies."

More related news about America's corrupt three-letter agencies can be found at DeepState.news.

Sources for this article include:

Twitter.com

NaturalNews.com

NYTimes.com
Intelligence employee admits FBI was behind Alex Jones lawsuit and agents were in the crowd on January 6

Sound Investigations has released an eye-opening video that makes some interesting admissions about the FBI, including the role they played in the Sandy Hook lawsuit against Alex Jones and the presence of agents in the crowd on January 6.

The report is based on conversations with Gavin O'Blennis, a former FBI employee who now serves as a contracting officer for the CIA.

He admitted to the undercover journalist that FBI agents are a regular presence among the crowds at protests in Washington, D.C., including on January 6, observing and seeing what they can learn about the people present. He said that he personally knew multiple agents who were there that day but believed there were not enough of them there to break up the crowd.

He said: I mean, I'm talking they maybe had 20 [agents]. You needed 1,000 to get rid of that crowd."

He added that the FBI does not want the public to know that agents were present in the crowd that day and added that they probably never will.

OBlennis also admitted that the agency was behind the civil defamation case against political commentator Alex Jones. He boasted that they can put anyone in jail.

When asked if this power means that they can put pro-life individuals in jail any time they want, OBlennis said: "You can kind of put anyone in jail if you know what to do."

The undercover reporter asked him to elaborate on how that worked, and he said its just a question of setting them up.

"You create the situation where they have no choice but to act on their impulse. And once they act on that impulsesome would call that entrapment, its a fine line," he said.

We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Explore our decentralized, peer-to-peer, uncensorable Brighteon.io free speech platform here. Learn about our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance.

He said that they come close to entrapment but stick to the law, adding that the FBI refers to the practice as a nudge. We get as close as we can without doing it, he explained.

For example, he said that the agency might create a fake post designed to trigger someone on social media and elicit a certain response. They already know a persons history and everything about them when they do this. Sometimes you light the fuse and just wait for it to follow, he added.

FBI was pursuing Alex Jones

When it comes to Alex Jones, O'Blennis said that the FBI had been pursuing him hardcore but have lost interest because he is broke following his loss in the defamation lawsuit filed against him by the families of victims of the Sandy Hook school shooting. The initial ruling ordered Jones to pay the families of the victims and an FBI agent who responded to the attack $1.5 billion for suffering caused by him speculating the event was a hoax, but this was later reduced to a settlement of $85 million paid out over 10 years.

OBlennis said the FBI wanted to silence him and they feel like they succeeded. Sound Investigations asked if the goal was to bankrupt him.

O'Blennis answered: "Uh, pretty much, and we let the [Sandy Hook] families do it."

He added that although they dont push people to do anything in such cases, they often tell them that while no federal statutes are being broken, they believe they have a good civil case if they want to pursue one and leave it in their hands.

The undercover journalist asked if he was saying that they let the citizens do their job in this sense, to which OBlennis replied, Yeah.

He also told the undercover journalist that he is sure Tucker Carlson is on their radar. You always want the biggest and loudest, he added.

Sources for this article include:

ThePostMillennial.com

NBCNews.com
House Judiciary Committee summons Big Tech CEOs to produce censorship collusion correspondence with feds

The House Judiciary Committee, chaired by Representative Jim Jordan (R-OH), has summoned the Big Tech CEOs to produce all documents related to censorship and collusion with the federal government during the 2020 election and the covid-19 scandal. These suspect communications are to be provided to the Committee no later than two weeks after the correspondence occurs, and must be provided on a rolling basis to ensure that the Committee can analyze this information as promptly as possible.

Federal agencies under Biden coerced social media companies to censor political opposition

The FBIs Foreign Influence Task Force (FITF) and the San Francisco Field Office of the FBI works directly with Amazon, Alphabet, Apple, Meta and Microsoft to facilitate sharing information about foreign malign influence with social media companies.

While this objective sounds well-intentioned, it is not the only surveillance operation taking place between federal agencies and the top social media companies in the world.

Due to multiple Freedom of Information Act requests and subsequent lawsuits, investigators have learned that the FBI and multiple federal agencies of the Biden administration routinely violate the First Amendment and use coercion to seize control over the operations of social media companies, to ultimately censor, shadow-ban and de-platform their political opponents and bury the truth. This coercion has included threats to strip the social media companies of their Section 230 Protections if the social media company did not go along with the governments censorship demands.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Use our decentralized, blockchain-based, uncensorable free speech platform at Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

While abusing power, the Biden White House would go on to commandeer one of the most egregious violations of free speech in the history of the United States, censoring important discussion on the contents of the Hunter Biden laptop, COVID-19 laboratory origins, vaccine injuries and unlawful mandates, among countless other topics that expose the crimes of the current regime.

The deeply troubling collusion between FBI and Big Tech resumes

The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana issued a preliminary injunction against the FBI, prohibiting the agency from coercing or significantly encouraging social media companies to censor content. This ruling was largely affirmed by a unanimous panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

However, the Supreme Court issued a stay of the injunction, and the FITF resumed outreach with social media companies. In March 2024, FITF re-engaged with the major social media companies and resumed their authoritarian role, policing the speech of Americans under the guise of keeping people safe. The Department of Justice, also complicit in the censorship of Americans, also re-engaged with the major social media companies in the lead-up to the 2024 election.

In the formal letter, Jordan writes to the CEOs: Given the FITFs improper role in communicating with social media and technology companies during the 2020 presidential election, the resumption of meetings between the FITF and Big Tech before the 2024 presidential election is deeply troubling. Now, as federal agencies arrogantly resume their operations with Big Tech, the House Judiciary Committee seeks full transparency on what is taking place behind the curtains.

Social media companies have established a pattern of violating individual rights while under duress to the demands of a deceptive, coercive federal government, and have therefore established an authoritarian relationship that will continue into the future. With these lines of communication established between bad faith actors in the federal government and in Big Tech, a censorship infrastructure is emboldened for the long haul. Narratives of control and deception will permeate online, and the power to manipulate, censor and persecute innocent Americans for their speech has been established as a new normal.

If no repercussions are enforced for the individuals involved in this censorship collusion, on both the private and government side of things, then the nefarious relationship of deception, oppression and censorship will only deepen. Jim Jordans request to see a paper trail of ongoing collusion between the federal government and bad faith actors in Big Tech may come up short in restoring the rule of law and protecting Americas First Amendment Rights.

Sources include:

ReclaimtheNet.org

Docs.ReclaimtheNet.org [PDF]

NaturalNews.com

Law.Justia.com

ReclaimtheNet.org
Israel to destroy Irans NUCLEAR facilities if Tehran follows through on retaliation threats

Israel has reportedly warned that if Iran attacks in retaliation to the assassination of a top Iranian commander, it will respond by destroying the latter's nuclear sites

Israel killed Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a top commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force in Lebanon and Syria, as he was meeting with other Iranian commanders and leaders from Lebanon's Hezbollah and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Iranian embassy in Syria.

According to a report from the London-based, Middle East-focused news organization Elaph News, a Western security official said Israel has been conducting air force drills in recent days "that include preparing to target Iranian nuclear facilities and other key infrastructure." Iran is home to several active nuclear sites, including power plants, uranium mines and research reactors.

Reports also indicated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's war cabinet has been conducting crunch meetings over fears that Iran will launch an assault as tensions in the Middle East escalate. Netanyahu warned in the days after Zahedi's assassination that the country will not hesitate to take preemptive military action against any threat it faces.

"Iran has been acting against us for years  directly and via proxies. And, therefore, Israel acts against Iran and its proxies  defensively and offensively," he said. "We will know how to defend ourselves and we will act according to the simple principle: That those who harm us or plan to harm us, we will harm."

Similarly, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei quickly hit out with revenge threats and vowed to "defeat the Zionist regime." President Ebrahim Rasi, sharing the sentiment, said Israel's strike "will not go unanswered." Experts are concerned that retaliation by Iran could spark a global war.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

However, U.S. officials think that Iran is unlikely to launch a direct attack as sources familiar with U.S. intelligence report that Iran has "urged several of its proxy militia groups to simultaneously launch a large-scale attack against Israel, using drones and missiles and that they could attack as soon as this week."

Meanwhile, hours after Iran threatened to strike Israel in revenge for the Syria blast, the country's national security defenses were put on high alert and the Israel Defense Forces jumped to action in preparation. Reservists were called up and planned leaves for active-duty troops were cancelled. Air defenses and missile stores were shored up and GPS services were shut down.

Iran vs. Israel: Which country has the better chance of winning?

Analysts and the wider public are now wondering which country has the better chance of winning a war if tensions escalate in the Middle East. As per reports, Israel, being a close ally of the United States and the top recipient of foreign aid from Washington, has received some $263 billion from 1946 to 2023.

When it comes to weaponry, Israel has more than 2,200 tanks, 580 aircraft, including 250 fighter jets, five submarines and 49 patrol and coastal combatants. The Iranian air force, meanwhile, only has over 500 aircraft, including 180 fighter jets such as the domestically produced Saeqeh and the aged F-4 Phantoms it had inherited from the previous, U.S.-friendly regime.

On the YouTube channel of Hindustan Times, the war prowess of the two countries was compared as well. According to the analysis, Israel's military budget is a massive $23 billion compared to Iran's $6.8 billion.

When it comes to manpower, Israel has 170,000 active personnel and up to 500,000 reservists it can call upon. Iran, meanwhile, has 525,000 active personnel and 350,000 reservists.

The report also noted that Israel may have one of the most advanced missile arsenals in the Middle East, but Iran has a more diverse missile arsenal. When it comes to drones, Israel operates reconnaissance and attack drones while Iran has over two dozen suicide attack and surveillance models.

For attack weapons on land, the former anchors its vehicle fleet on the technologically advanced Merkava main battle tank, while the latter uses the indigenously designed Zulfiqar and Karrar main battle tanks.

For naval battles, Israel has around seven corvette warships and seven submarines. It also operates eight missile boats and 40 patrol vessels. Iran, on the other hand, has approximately six frigates and three corvette warships, 34 submarines and 80 patrol vessels.

Israel is believed to have nuclear warheads but to date, there has been no official confirmation of this. Meanwhile, United States officials confirmed that Iran has enough fissile material to develop a nuclear weapon in just one to two weeks. (Related: Report: Iran may be able to create a nuclear weapon WITHIN A WEEK.)

Watch the video below that talks about Iran's devastating response to the U.S. and Israel's bombing.

This video is from the Neroke-5 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

D.C.-based NGO claims Iran is capable of building a nuclear bomb in ONE WEEK.

Iran tests ballistic missiles as part of war drills designed to prepare for potential strikes on Israeli military facilities.

Iran declares RED LINE: If U.S. strikes Iranian soil over three soldier deaths, Iran will strike numerous American targets throughout Middle East.

Sources include:

The-Sun.com

Elaph.com

DailyWire.com

DNAIndia.com

YouTube.com

Brighteon.com
Rumblings point to impending San Andreas earthquake  is New Madrid next?

"The big one" is soon to come in the state of California as scientists warn that the infamous San Andreas fault line is waking up.

Right on schedule after the second Great American Eclipse, the San Andreas, for which Hollywood movies have been made, is showing signs of an upcoming "tremor," as Metro (United Kingdom) reported.

The tiny California town of Parkfield, which sits atop the San Andreas seismic zone, is considered the "earthquake capital of the world." And it is there that experts say the epicenter of the next major California earthquake might occur.

Parkfield sits about dead center between San Francisco and Los Angeles in Central California. The San Andreas fault itself runs north and south, passing through San Francisco, Santa Cruz and Palm Springs, and also runs close to Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and San Diego.

There are other fault lines that intersect with and cross the San Andreas as well, touching nearly every major city across the Golden State.

According to Luca Malagnini, director of research at the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology in Italy, seismic measurements in Parkfield have been odd as of late. He suspects that there will be an earthquake somewhere this year, though the epicenter may not be Parkfield.

Since 2021, variations in attenuation measurements have dropped substantially. The last time this happened, there was a rupture along the fault (Sept. 28, 2004).

"We are waiting," Malagnini said ominously about these developments.

As far as geology goes, predicting earthquakes along the San Andreas is a somewhat easy task. Earthquakes occur there generally every 22 years, which suggests the next big one may be in 2026.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Use our decentralized, blockchain-based, uncensorable free speech platform at Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

However, the current situation is different in that the usual pressure-relieving pre-quakes that would have occurred by now have not, which means a big one is probably imminent.

"The behavior of the attenuation parameter in the last few years seems substantially different from the one that characterized the years prior to the 2004 mainshock," Malagnini revealed in a recent study.

(Related: Back in February, nearly 1,000 post-atmospheric river earthquakes were detected in California and Nevada, which further points to the San Andreas and other Western fault lines waking up.)

Earthquakes in diverse places

The New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), the epicenter of which lies at the intersection of Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky and Illinois, is another area of great concern, especially since it has been active as of late in the leadup to the second Great American Eclipse.

Since a past eclipse predicated a major NMSZ quake back in 1811-12, some have speculated that perhaps the recent eclipse will predicate another big one in the same area, affecting large swaths of the South and Midwest.

In recent weeks, the NMSZ has been surprisingly active with many small quakes being detected right at the epicenter.

There was also the unusual 4.8 earthquake that struck New York and New Jersey just prior to the second Great American Eclipse, which some see as an ominous foreboding of worse quakes to come.

Matthew 24:7 warns about this, stating that in the end of days nation would rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and that there will be famines, pestilences and earthquakes in diverse places.

With the massive cicada event still coming in the following days, not to mention the prospect of nuclear war between Israel and Iran, the stage does seem to be set for some major shaking, including seismically across the United States where X now marks the spot for judgment and destruction.

It is not a matter of if but when, as far as "the big one" striking California and the Midwest. Find out more at Collapse.news.

Sources for this article include:

Metro.co.uk

NaturalNews.com

EarthquakeTrack.com

BlueLetterBible.org
Russia, China discussing plans to double counteract U.S.-led alliance of Western nations

Russia and China are set to start a dialogue tackling Eurasian security to "double counteract" the European-Atlantic alliance led by the United States.

On Tuesday, April 9, at a press conference in Beijing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi said the two nations have a common goal of increasing security in Eurasia.

"We agreed with our Chinese friends to start a dialogue and get other like-minded countries to join us," Lavrov said, adding that Wang proposed the idea of "double counteracting" the U.S. and its allies in response to the Western world's "double deterrence" strategy against Russia and China.

A day before this press conference, Beijing clarified in a statement that it has stepped up its support for Moscow following the beginning of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine, including providing geospatial intelligence, to help it in its invasion of the neighboring ex-Soviet state.

According to Lavrov, Russia and China confirmed that there is no prospect of holding meetings to settle the conflict with Ukraine when Russia's positions are ignored, a reference to a planned June peace conference in Switzerland backed by Kyiv. Ukraines allies see Chinas presence at such a conference as important for making the initiative successful.

"China supports the holding in due course of an international peace conference that is recognized by both sides, of Russia and Ukraine, and ensures the equal participation of all parties and fair discussions on all peace plans," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning. She added that she had "no information" to offer on China's participation in the planned peace conference.

We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Explore our decentralized, peer-to-peer, uncensorable Brighteon.io free speech platform here. Learn about our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance.

Beijing and Moscow have intensified their diplomatic and economic partnership since Russian President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in late February 2022, which has helped Russia weather unprecedented Western sanctions. (Related: FORGED IN FIRE: Russia-China ties reach "unprecedented" level amid tensions with the West.)

Meanwhile, White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said President Joe Biden has raised concerns about the matter with Xi Jinping during their recent call. On the other hand, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen underscored the urgency of the issue during her visit to China. According to her, Chinese banks and major exporters should not bolster Russia's military capacity, as "they will face significant consequences if they do."

As per Lavrov, Putin and Xi will meet at a regional summit in Kazakhstan in June and in October at a leaders meeting of the BRICS bloc of emerging economies. Putin is also expected to fly to China for a state visit in May.

Xi pledges to support Moscow in maintaining social security and stability

During his meeting with Lavrov, Xi pledged to strengthen communication with Russia. He also said Beijing supports Moscow in "maintaining social security and stability," according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. He also expressed the two countries' shared drive to reform "global governance." an allusion to their joint efforts to reshape what they see as a Western-dominated world.

According to Lavrov, "consolidating and enhancing" relations with China was the "priority of Russia's foreign policy," according to Chinese state media.

This was the twos first direct meeting in six years. Their last meeting in 2018 came weeks before a state visit from Putin to China, his first such trip after winning another highly orchestrated Russian presidential election that year. Putin last visited Beijing in October for the Belt and Road Forum. Xi made a state visit to Moscow in March 2023 after entering his third term as Chinese president.

Beijing claims neutrality in the conflict but has emerged as a key economic lifeline for the isolated Russian economy and a staunch diplomatic partner for Moscow as both push back against what they see as containment from the West.

Previous rounds of international peace conferences have been backed by Kyiv and not included Moscow, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seeks broad support for his peace formula, which calls for the complete withdrawal of Russian troops.

China has maintained dialogue with Switzerland about an upcoming international peace conference, according to state media, but previously said such talks should be recognized by both Ukraine and Russia.

Watch the video below where Lavrov stated that nothing positive comes from the reckless undertakings of the U.S. military.

This video is from the HaloRock channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.S. Space Force: China and Russia are CONCEALING THREATS posed by their satellites.

British Defense Secretary warns of WORLD WAR with China, Iran, North Korea and Russia in FIVE YEARS.

Russia and China dominate nuclear electricity generation industry ahead of the U.S.

Russia and China pledge friendship, denounce the West.

Sources include:

Bloomberg.com

BusinessInsider.com

BusinessMirror.com.ph

Edition.CNN.com

Brighteon.com
Russia investigating Ukrainian firm linked to Hunter Biden for financing terrorist attacks

Burisma Holdings, a Ukrainian firm linked to the Biden family, is currently being investigated by Russian authorities for financing terrorism.

The name has been a regular fixture in news stories about the Biden familys corruption. The Ukrainian energy firm placed Hunter Biden and his business partner, Devon Archer, on its board of directors for no clear business reason with generous pay of $1 million per year at a time when Joe was Vice President and overseeing Washingtons Ukraine policy.

When Ukraines Prosecutor General, Viktor Shokin, started investigating Burisma for corruption, Biden pressured the Ukrainian government to fire the prosecutor by threatening to withhold loan guarantees from the U.S.

The current probe into Burisma is related to a complaint filed by a group of Russian lawmakers following the deadly attack last month on concertgoers at the Crocus City Hall near Moscow. The attack killed 143 people, and although ISIS took responsibility for it, Russia believes that Ukraine was behind it. Russian authorities maintain the U.S. and its allies have been carrying out attacks on Russian soil.

Spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko noted: "It has been established that the funds received through commercial organizations, in particular the Burisma Holdings oil and gas company that is operating in Ukraine, have been used over the past few years to carry out terrorist acts in Russia, as well as abroad, to eliminate prominent political and public figures and cause economic damage."

She said the committee is working with other types of intelligence services, including financial intelligence, and looking into the sources of income and the movement of money amounting to several million dollars. They are also investigating the involvement of specific individuals from among government officials, people with civic and commercial organizations of Western countries.

We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Explore our decentralized, peer-to-peer, uncensorable Brighteon.io free speech platform here. Learn about our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance.

Hunter sat on Burisma's board from 2014 to 2019 in what is widely believed to be another example of Biden family corruption and an attempt by the companys executives to gain favor with the Obama administration.

The investigation into Burisma is part of a broader criminal probe into high-ranking officials from the U.S. and other NATO countries for bankrolling terrorism.

Russia insists Ukraine was behind concert hall terrorist attack

The attack at Crocus City Hall has been a major point of controversy. The suspected gunmen were detained and have already appeared in court; they are all citizens of Tajikistan, and one admitted their plan after the attack was to head toward Kiev. However, the fact that they were clearly tortured has cast doubt on their admissions.

Russian authorities were immediately skeptical of the U.S.s apparent rush to pin the blame on ISIS after the group took responsibility for the attack without providing proof. Both Ukraine and the U.S. have denied any involvement. In addition, American officials revealed that they had warned Moscow about an impending threat well in advance.

The U.S. insists that Russias allegations are unfounded. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said: Russia knows that it was ISIS who committed the attack in Moscow, we know it was ISIS who committed the attack in Moscow.

He added: We warned Russia of an impending terrorist attack in Moscow, and all the rest of this is noise.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

TheCradle.co
Parents in Seattle furious over program for gifted children being terminated simply because it had too many White students

Parents in Seattle are furious over the termination of a program for the gifted and talented children simply because " it had too many White students ."

The Seattle Public Schools (SPS) has a program called Highly Capable Cohort (HCC), which designates classrooms and sometimes entire schools as reserved for kids who can skip ahead and learn above their grade.

Katie McAllister, who's son has ADHD, said that the HCC program "was a real lifesaver" for her son who spoke in full sentences before he was two and learned to read by age four. "I don't know what would have happened if he was in a neighborhood school," she added. "Because he can be really frustrating [to the teachers around him] if he's not challenged."

SPS began phasing out its HCC schools and classrooms for advanced students in the 2021 to 2022 school year to address "historical inequity," because these schools had too many White and Asian students and not enough Black and Hispanic students. (Related: U.S. medical schools defy Supreme Court ruling, say they'll continue to teach anti-White HATE to the next generation of doctors.)

In total, another 11 HHC schools dedicated to highly capable learners will be phased out in the fall semester. The phase-out is expected to be completed by the 2027 to 2028 school year.

Of the students enrolled in HCC for the 2022 to 2023 school year, 52 percent were White, 16 percent were Asian and only 3.4 percent were Black.

During a January 22, 2020, school board meeting, parents of Black students in HCC asked the board to consider finding ways to incorporate more Black students into the gifted program rather than shut it down.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Use our decentralized, blockchain-based, uncensorable free speech platform at Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

"My request is that you please consider the disservice you would be doing to the minorities that are already in the HCC program," one father said at the meeting. The program does more for Black children, particularly Black boys, than it does for their peers.

Simrin Parmar, who spoke with Fox 13, told the outlet that the decision "will not help those kids to just cut the program wholesale."

She added: "We werent servicing enough of them. You dont help by cutting the program. What we should be doing is identifying more children from underrepresented groups that arent getting a fair shake in the testing and doing more to fix that and providing these services to more kids across the city."

Seattle to replace HCC with highly criticized program

The gifted and talented program has been replaced with the Highly Capable Neighborhood School Model, which requires teachers to come up with individualized learning programs for all of their students. The school district claims the new model will be more inclusive, equitable and culturally sensitive.

Parents in the district are not happy with the new model. McAllister believes the new model will not work because teachers in neighborhood schools will not know how to teach gifted kids and might overlook them, causing them to turn disruptive or otherwise have their academic progress slowed.

"SPS is scrapping all [HCC] programming and replacing it with empty promises, zero plan and zero funding," said Kiley Riffe, another mom in the school district. "I'm sad to watch so many families leave the public school system, but I can't blame them."

Watch as Dr. Marc McDonald discusses education in public schools.

This video is from the channel Public Advocate of the US on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Shocking analysis: Only 1 out of 16 black student applicants accepted by Harvard DESERVE to be there based on merit alone.

Whistleblower confirms that University of Washington discriminates against whites, Asians.

Parent slams California elementary school for organizing NO WHITES ALLOWED event for kids.

Sources include:

ThePostMillenial.com

SeattleTimes.com

Fox13Seattle.com

Brighteon.com
Texas school district employees charged with illegal ELECTIONEERING

Two Texas school district employees were arraigned on April 2 amid accusations they were involved in an "illegal electioneering" scheme

Jesus and Lindsay Lujan, employees of the Denton Independent School District (ISD) in northern Texas, were charged back in February with using their district-issued email accounts to urge co-workers to vote in the state's Republican primary elections.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Denton ISD that month, claiming it is a criminal offense for a school district employee to spend or approve the spending of public funds for political advertising.

Lindsay, the principal of Alexander Elementary School, guaranteed 30-minute coverage for staff members who wanted to vote early in the primary elections, as stated in the lawsuit. The case further alleges that she also presented employees with a list of candidates considered "friendly" or "unfriendly" to public education, with Paxton called "unfriendly."

At the same time, Jesus, the head of school at Borman Elementary School, encouraged employees to use a "purple mindset" to "vote for candidates who support public education and school funding," as stated in the lawsuit.

Both Jesus and Lindsay were charged in Denton County Court on April 2 for "unlawful use of internal mail system for political advertising," according to court records. Lindsay is slated to be back in court for an arraignment hearing on May 13, while Jesus' hearing is due on June 4.

Texas law prevents school districts from using state or local funds

Texas law prevents school districts from utilizing state or local funds or school district assets to electioneer for or against any candidate. The Education Code also prevents the use of public funds and internal email systems for political advertising.

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Use our decentralized, blockchain-based, uncensorable free speech platform at Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

"It is absolutely improper for publicly funded entities like school districts to engage in electioneering as Denton ISD has done," said Paxton back in February. "Government officials everywhere are on notice that I will use every legal remedy available to me to stop school districts from influencing or coercing their employees to vote any particular way, especially when a district uses taxpayer resources and money to do so. Our elections must be completely protected from any illegal interference."

"I am extremely troubled by this pattern of government officials engaged in illegal electioneering. These are government employees charged with the education of our children. They must respect our laws. I will continue to use every legal remedy available to me to stop this unlawful conduct. Elections are the foundation of our republic. They must be free and fair."

Paxton himself is unable to attempt to prosecute Jesus and Lindsay because of a 2021 state appeals court ruling that prevented attorneys general from using their office to indict people over election-related crimes. (Related: Texas AG Ken Paxton being prevented from prosecuting voter fraud by secretive Texas court.)

Nevertheless, Paxton has successfully acquired an injunction against Denton ISD ordering the district to not use any funds or resources to engage in illegal electioneering. He has acquired similar injunctions against Castleberry ISD in River Oaks, to the west of Fort Worth, and a restraining order against Frisco ISD in the city of the same name north of Dallas.

Follow VoteFraud.news for more stories like this.

Watch the video below about Democrat candidates caught electioneering within 100 feet of a polling location.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related articles:

WATCH: Texas AG Ken Paxton reveals Democrats rigged 2020 elections by merely ceasing to count votes (then running mail-in ballots until they achieved fake vote targets.)

Republican county supervisors charged with election interference and conspiracy, Arizona AG announces.

NJ Dems charged with ELECTION FRAUD linked to MAIL-IN BALLOTS.

Sources include:

KOMONews.com

TexasTribune.org

TheCenterSquare.com

Brighteon.com
Trump blasts RINO Sen. Graham for criticizing his stance on ABORTION

Former President Donald Trump publicly rebuked U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) for criticizing his position on abortion.

The real estate mogul took to Truth Social to issue his denouncement of the lawmaker, writing on April 8: "Graham is doing a great disservice to the Republican Party and to our country. At first, he wanted no abortions under any circumstances; then he was up to six weeks where you're allowed abortion. Now he's up to 15 weeks where you're allowed abortion."

"What he doesn't understand  or perhaps he does  is that radical Left Democrats who are destroying our country will never approve anything that he or the Republicans want. They love this issue and they want to keep it going for as long as Republicans will allow them to do so."

Trump ultimately remarked that "people like Graham  are handing Democrats their dream of the House [of Representatives], Senate and perhaps even the presidency. We cannot let our country suffer any further damage by losing elections on an issue that should always have been decided by the states."

Not contented with his remarks, Trump followed up his verbal thrashing of the senator for the Palmetto State in succeeding posts. "I blame myself for Graham because the only reason he won in the great state of South Carolina is because I endorsed him," he lamented.

The former president also challenged Graham and Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the pro-life Susan B. Anthony Foundation, to "study the Tenth Amendment and state's rights." He continued: "When they do, they should proudly get on with helping Republicans to win elections, rather than making it impossible for them to do so."

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

Trump's public rebuke of Graham stemmed from the senator's disagreement with him over the matter of infanticide. The lawmaker wrote on X: "I respectfully disagree with [former] President Trump's statement that abortion is a states' rights issue. Dobbs [v. Jackson] does not require that conclusion legally, and the pro-life movement has always been about the well-being of the unborn child  not geography."

Abortion a major issue ahead of the 2024 elections

The South Carolina senator's disagreement was in response to a message by Trump about his abortion policy. The former president's policy on the matter, according to InfoWars, was letting "the will of the people" to prevail.

"My view is now that we have abortion where everybody wanted it from a legal standpoint, the states will determine [it] by vote or legislation, or perhaps both. Whatever they decide must be the law of the land  in this case, the law of the state. Many states will be different, many will have a different number of weeks or some will have more conservative [stances] than others, and that's what they will be," said Trump.

"At the end of the day, this is all about the will of the people. You must follow your heart or, in many cases, your religion or your faith. Do what's right for your family and do what's right for yourself. Do what's right for your children. Do what's right for your country."

In 2022, the Supreme Court overturned the Roe v. Wade ruling that codified abortion at the federal level 49 years after it was first issued. While many Democrats have denounced the overturn as a ban on abortion, what the move did was essentially return the issue of abortion to the individual states. Some red states issued outright abortion bans, while some blue states proudly advertised themselves as "abortion sanctuaries." (Related: Pro-abortion VP Kamala Harris blames Trump for Roe v. Wade overturn.)

Visit Trump.news for more stories about the former president.

Watch former President Donald Trump expounds on his stance on abortion below.

This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Pro-abortion Trump says Florida's new heartbeat law to protect unborn children from murder is a "terrible mistake."

President Trump will sign Born Alive executive order protecting babies who survive abortions.

Trump faces backlash after criticizing DeSantis' 6-week abortion ban.

Trump wants IVF, fertility treatments available across America.

President Trump just banned federal funding of abortions.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com

Brighteon.com
The Amazon rainforest, a sprawling biome teeming with life, is home to a fascinating group of pollinators: orchid bees.

These bees, known for their long tongues and specialized relationships with orchids, play a vital role in the rainforest's ecosystem. However, a silent threat looms over these delicate creatures - deforestation.

Deforestation's Sting: How Habitat Loss Weakens Bee Populations



A recent study conducted in the Brazilian Amazon shed light on the impact of deforestation on orchid bees. Researchers collected data on orchid bee diversity in both preserved and degraded forest areas.

Their findings revealed a surprising truth: some orchid bee species appear to be adaptable, capable of surviving in both pristine and fragmented habitats.

However, this adaptability comes at a cost. The study also found that overall bee populations suffer significantly from deforestation.

Deforestation destroys essential nesting sites and foraging grounds, disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem. With fewer bees to pollinate plants, seed production declines, hindering forest regeneration.

A Race Against Time: Protecting the Amazon's Fragile Ecosystem

The consequences of deforestation extend far beyond the plight of orchid bees. The Amazon rainforest plays a critical role in regulating global climate patterns. Widespread deforestation disrupts this delicate balance, potentially leading to more extreme weather events worldwide.

The researchers behind the study emphasize the urgent need for stricter environmental regulations to curb deforestation rates. Additionally, they propose exploring market-oriented solutions, such as rewarding landowners who protect their forests.

The silent threat of deforestation not only jeopardizes the survival of these fascinating creatures but also disrupts the delicate balance of the Amazon rainforest, with potentially far-reaching consequences for the entire planet.

Also Read: Male Bees Have Incredible Passion for Collecting Scents, Creating Own Fragrances

Captivating Colors and Curious Scents: Unveiling the Secrets of Orchid Bees

Orchid bees, also known scientifically as Euglossini, are a sight to behold. Their bodies shimmer with metallic colors, ranging from vibrant greens and blues to dazzling purples and fiery reds.

Unlike their honeybee cousins, orchid bees are solitary creatures. Each female carves out her own space in the world, constructing her nest in hollow trees, abandoned termite mounds, or even burrows in the ground.

One of the most intriguing aspects of orchid bee behavior is their fascination with fragrant scents. Male orchid bees, in particular, are known for their dedication to collecting these aromatic compounds.

Their secret weapon? Specialized pouches located in their hind legs. These pouches act as tiny perfume reservoirs, storing the sweet smells collected from orchids and other rainforest flora.

Scientists believe that these fragrant offerings play a vital role in the orchid bee's mating game. Males use their scent-laden legs to attract potential mates, wafting these enticing aromas through the air.

The exact way these scents influence female choice is still being explored, but one theory suggests that the quality and complexity of the scent bouquet might signal a male's overall health and fitness.

The relationship between orchid bees and their namesake flowers goes beyond mere attraction. These bees act as vital pollinators for many orchid species.

Their long tongues, perfectly adapted to reach deep within the orchid's flower, allow them to transfer pollen grains between different plants, ensuring the successful reproduction of these magnificent blooms.

In return for their pollination services, orchid bees receive a sweet reward: nectar. This sugary liquid provides them with the energy needed to fuel their active lifestyles.

The intricate dance between orchid bees and orchids exemplifies the remarkable co-evolution that has taken place in the Amazon rainforest over millions of years.

Related article: Moths and Bees Steal Nectar From Rare Orchids, Researchers Say
Rainy conditions and mountain snow are expected in parts of California this week, causing possible travel dangers, and flooding dangers. Travelers should keep updated with the latest, particularly if they will commute in parts of California.

The National Weather Service (NWS) monitors a possible powerful low-pressure system that can bring gusty winds, heavy rain, and severe thunderstorms in parts of the eastern US, Ohio Valley, and Great Lakes.

The Pacific Northwest and parts of California are no strangers to challenging weather conditions, from heavy rains, flooding, mountain snow, and winter storms. Unsettled weather is expected in California this weekend. Residents should check for locally heavy rain, with potential moderate to heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada.

Meanwhile, Southern Oregon can expect beneficial rainfall on Saturday. In the Great Plains, warmer temperatures are forecast this weekend, with highs surging upwards of 20 to 30 degrees above average in the north-central US.

California Weather Forecast this Weekend

In California, the forecast reveals that a possible mid-April storm can threaten portions of California, with a mix of rain and mountain snow. Motorists can experience slower commutes due to the wet weather outlook and snow, and it is best to check the latest forecasts before traveling outside.

Before the weekend, a widespread warmer outlook is forecast in the following areas:

Las Vegas

Cedar City

Phoenix

Albuquerque

Grand Junction

Denver

Salt Lake City

Phoenix

On the other hand, rainy concerns can unload in Redding and Reno. Meanwhile, NWS San Diego shows that an unsettled weather outlook can unfold in the region, with strong winds on the weekend. Residents are advised to check for chances of periods of rain and mountain snow. On the weekend, widespread precipitation will become more possible.

Additionally, wet weather conditions and localized flooding are likely, causing potential travel concerns. Flooding risk can cause moderate to severe flooding, particularly in low-lying areas in California and the Northwest.

On Saturday, the rounds of rain are forecast in Redding, Reno, San Francisco, Fresno, Los Angeles, and San Diego. NWS Los Angeles monitors the development of an approaching storm in the region, causing possible rain and mountain snow from Friday to Sunday. There is also a 10% chance of a dusting of snow near Tejon Pass and Grapevine.

The advisory warns of gusty winds that can lead to dangerous crosswinds. Homeowners should watch out for ground lightning, dangerous clouds, heavy rain, and hail conditions.

Also Read: NWS Weather Forecast in Eastern US: Powerful Storm System to Bring Strong Winds, Heavy Rain

Weather in Plains and Mississippi

Next week, the latest weather forecast warns of tornado threats in parts of Mississippi Valley and Great Plains. On Monday, homeowners should stay alert for severe thunderstorms in the following areas:

Sioux City

Lincoln

Salina

Dodge City

Wichita

Amarillo

Oklahoma

Wichita Falls

Abile

Related Article: Midwest Weather Forecast: 75 Million People At Risk of Severe Weather Threat This Week

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
Concerns that the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing the most catastrophic mass coral bleaching event on record have increased after a conservation group released footage showing the damage up to 18 meters below the surface.

Worst Bleaching

Dr. Selina Ward, a marine biologist and former academic director of the University of Queensland's Heron Island Research Station, said the bleaching was the worst she had seen in 30 years of working on the reef, and some coral was beginning to die.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority said last week that airborne scans of more than 1,000 individual reefs found that more than half had high or very high levels of bleaching, with a smaller percentage in the south-less than 10%-having extreme bleaching. Only roughly a fourth remained relatively unharmed.

It revealed that the 2,300-kilometer reef system was undergoing its fifth mass bleaching episode in eight years.

The authority reported that sea surface temperatures were 0.5 degrees Celsius to 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than normal for this time of year.

The Australian Marine Conservation Society published video and photographs that showed bleaching on the southern half of the reef, reaching deeper depths than previously documented this year.

Ward stated that the impact of bleaching was widespread throughout the 16 places she visited in the reef's southern part, harming coral species that were previously resistant to bleaching. Some coral had begun to die, which typically takes weeks or months after bleaching occurs.

"I feel devastated. I've been working on the reef since 1992 but this [event], I'm really struggling with," she added.

Coral bleaching occurs when a coral becomes heat strained and expels the small marine algae known as zooxanthellae, which dwell in its tissue and provide the majority of its colour and energy. With the zooxanthellae gone, the coral starves, revealing its bone-white calcium skeleton.

Read Also: Great Barrier Reef Corals Unlock Secrets of Earth's Rainfall History

Protection From Heatwave

Some deeper regions of the Great Barrier Reef are protected from damaging heat waves, but this protection will be lost if global warming continues, according to new research.

The study led by the universities of Exeter and Queensland examined how shifting temperatures could affect mesophotic corals (depths of 30-50 meters).

It was discovered that separating heated buoyant top water from cooler, deeper water helps protect reefs from surface heat waves; however, this protection will be lost if global warming exceeds 3C above pre-industrial levels.

According to the study, 3C of global warming would raise mesophotic temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef above 30C, which is a known threshold for coral mortality.

This would not necessarily mean that all coral would perish, but it would put the reef under stress, increasing mortality and maybe causing it to collapse.

According to the researchers, similar patterns could occur on other reefs throughout the world, but local conditions impacting how the water moves and mixes will determine how many deeper water coral refuges exist and remain insulated from surface heat waves.

"Coral bleaching is a dramatic sign of the impact humans are having on the planet," said Dr. Jennifer McWhorter, who led the research during a QUEX Ph.D. studentship at the universities of Exeter and Queensland.

Related Article: Great Barrier Reef: Flood Plumes, Heavy Waves Due To Cyclones Could Have Damaged Coral Reef System
With the frequency of rains, flooding and landslides are the main threats for communities, particularly in flood-prone or low-lying areas. Understanding landslide threats will provide effective ways to mitigate the impact of weather risks.

Landslides are of dangerous weather events, that can lead a significant damage to lives and properties. While forecasts are helpful to predict, communities are at risk of severe weather threats, particularly landslides.

However, widespread deforestation makes communities vulnerable to storms and landslides. In a recent report, trees can help mitigate the impacts of storms, reducing the threats of flooding. The decline in native trees can have significant effects on cities and wildlife

Native Tree Planting in Addressing Landslide Hazards and Erosion

Climate change can cause challenging to extreme weather events, including the following:

hurricanes

storms

severe weather

In a new report, researchers from the University of Sydney discovered the role of native trees and shrubs in dealing with landslide concerns. Ph.D. candidate, Jiale Zhu, conducted the study, and he is also from the University of Sydney.

The study findings were published in Acta Geotechnica, studying how trees and shrubs can significantly reinforce sloping terrain, and potentially mitigate the risk of landslide and soil erosion during heavy rain conditions.

The researcher observed the native trees mostly found in East Coast Australia, noting the role of Sydney gum, blueberry ash, narrow-leaf scribbly gum, coastal banksia, and crimson bottlebrush. With the said trees, it can promote stabilizing shallow slopes, which plants help reinforce the slope. Unlike the other methods of steel mesh, plants can offer a natural approach to reduce landslide risks.

"Plants provide a sustainable, natural approach to slope reinforcement, compared to artificial methods, such as steel mesh or sprayed concrete. They also create and maintain crucial habitat," Zhu said, as quoted in a report.

As La Nina conditions return, wet weather patterns can become more common or extreme, causing heavy precipitation. The study suggested the government's role in prioritizing planting native stress that can reinforce and enhance slopes. Additionally, communities can consider planting trees near their areas, which can offer added protection against landslides.

"Sometimes, nature offers the best solution. Prioritizing native planting would be a quicker way to achieve the NSW Government's 2036 green cover index, opening new sites for regreening that directly benefit critical infrastructure, homes, and crucial river systems," Zhu added.

Also Read: Climate Change Could Drive 'Devastating' Plant Changes, Forcing Plant Hardiness Levels to Shift North: Plant Pathologist Says

Planting of trees: Beneficial for Wildlife and Fight for Climate Change

As lands are being converted to agricultural or commercial areas, planting trees can save many species suffering from habitat loss and climate change. Recent reports reveal that trees are crucial in fighting climate change and improving air quality.

It can also mitigate the impacts of global warming, benefiting animals and human populations.

Related Article: Ideal Locations Crucial in Growing Trees to Avoid Contributing to Global Warming

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
YEREVAN, 12 APRIL, ARMENPRESS. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion on Tuesday to proclaim April 24, 2024 as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, commemorating the 109th anniversary of the atrocity that claimed over 1.5 million innocent lives. The motion was introduced by Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents Pasadena, and co-authored by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis.

I believe its important to reflect and learn from the past, Supervisor Barger said in a statement. Remembering the Armenian Genocide gives our diverse communities an opportunity to collectively acknowledge and mourn the loss of over 1.5 millioninnocentlives.

Barger, whose district is home to the largest concentration of Armenians and Armenian-Americans in the County, emphasized the importance of honoringtheirresilience.

They are resilient people  determined, focused, and dedicated to persevering,shesaid.

Supervisor Solis, whose First District includes the communities of Little Armenia in East Hollywood and Montebello, home to the century-old Armenian Holy Cross Cathedral, also spoke about the significance of theremembranceday.

As we solemnly remember the many lives that were lost, we also honor the resiliency of the Armenian people who rebuilt their lives from nothing  including those here in Los Angeles County, Solis said. Let us recommit ourselves to making certain that we never forget the Armenian Genocide, and that we always speak out against hatred and atrocities anywheretheyoccur.
YEREVAN, 12 APRIL, ARMENPRESS.The anti-Armenian school olympiad to be organized in Azerbaijan proves that the Azerbaijani authorities are not going to give up their invasive and illegal aspirations against Armenia,"Geghard" Scientific Analytical Foundation said in a statement.

The statement issued by the Foundation reads as follows:

The Azerbaijani media recently reported that on April 27, a school olympiad titled "Return to Western Azerbaijan" will take place. (The term "Western Azerbaijan" refers to an irredentist project claiming the territory of the Republic of Armenia.)

The event is organized by the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Education of Nakhijevan, the Institute of Education of Azerbaijan, Nakhijevan State University, and the so-called "Western Azerbaijan Community" organization.

According to the organizers, the aim of the olympiad is to increase school children's knowledge of the history, geography, culture, literature, prominent historical figures, place names, and folklore of the so-called "Western Azerbaijan," and to ensure a thorough examination of this knowledge.

This event is one of the manifestations of Azerbaijan's occupation policy. The Azerbaijani leadership does not disguise the character of its policy and has claimed on numerous occasions that the territory of the Republic of Armenia is the 'historical homeland' of Azerbaijanis, asserting that they must return there.

Ilham Aliyev reinstated this claim in 2022 during his visit to the administrative building of the "Western Azerbaijan Community". It is worth noting that the organization's activities are completely sponsored by the state and are directed towards elaborating and spreading these false theses.

This further highlights how hatred against Armenians is disseminated among young generations in Azerbaijan. It also underscores that the Azerbaijani authorities are not going to abondon their occupation and unlawful projects.

"Geghard" Scientific and Analytical Foundation condemns these and other similar anti-Armenian events organized under the auspices of the Azerbaijani authorities. It also draws the attention of the international community to Azerbaijan's aggressive policy and the threat it poses to the territorial integrity of the Republic of Armenia.
Looking forward to meeting with PM Modi: Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirms India visit

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onfirming his upcoming maiden visit to India, Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Wednesday said he was looking forward to meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Taking to his official handle on Wednesday, Musk posted, "Looking forward to meeting with Prime Minister @NarendraModi in India!"

https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1778116984137245137?s=46

According to sources, Musk, on his maiden India visit, might make the much-anticipated announcement of Tesla's maiden plant in the country.

Musk will likely meet Prime Minister Modi on April 22 in the national capital, according to Reuters.

Apart from announcing Tesla's maiden foray in India, Musk is also expected to disclose details of the automobile major's plans for the country, going forward.

However, the final agenda for Musk's trip to India is yet to be confirmed.

It was reported earlier that Tesla officials were exploring potential sites in India for a manufacturing plant, which is anticipated to necessitate an investment of approximately USD 2 billion.

Tesla's interest in expanding its presence in the Indian market has intensified, with the company actively searching for a suitable location to establish a cutting-edge manufacturing facility.

According to sources, both the state governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat have reportedly extended attractive land offers to Tesla for this purpose, signalling significant progress in India's electric mobility landscape.

The proposed manufacturing plant, with estimated investments ranging from USD 2 billion to USD 3 billion, aims to cater to both domestic and international demand for Tesla's electric vehicles.

This move aligns with India's new EV policy, which seeks to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions.

Under the government's EV scheme, which aims to position India as a preferred manufacturing destination for EVs equipped with advanced technology, several key objectives have been outlined.

These include attracting investments from global EV manufacturers, promoting the adoption of advanced EV technology among Indian consumers, and bolstering the country's Make in India initiative.

Moreover, Tesla's entry into the Indian market holds immense promise for the country's economy and environment.

The establishment of a manufacturing plant and increased procurement of auto parts from India are expected to create jobs, foster economic growth, and strengthen the domestic manufacturing ecosystem.

 Looking forward to meeting with PM Modi: Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirms India visit

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With maiden order from ISRO, drone startup Garuda Aerospace forays into Space-Tech domain

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rone manufacturer Garuda Aerospace has announced a significant collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), as it marks its debut in the space-tech domain. This partnership signifies a milestone moment, with ISRO set to procure Garuda Aerospace's cutting-edge quadcopter drones, heralding a new era of innovation in the space sector.

Renowned for its state-of-the-art drone technology, Garuda Aerospace's quadcopter drones boast integration with machine learning and artificial intelligence, promising to revolutionise efficiency across various ISRO operations.

The journey towards this pivotal moment commenced in 2021 when ISRO initiated trials of Garuda Aerospace's drones for tasks including medicine and food delivery, as well as building sanitisation efforts amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. The resounding success of these trials paved the way for ISRO's decision to acquire Garuda Aerospace's quadcopter drones.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, CEO and founder of Garuda Aerospace, expressed pride in securing this order from ISRO, underscoring the company's steadfast commitment to excellence. He highlighted the pivotal role of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles in the space sector, underscoring the significance of the partnership with ISRO in solidifying Garuda Aerospace's position as an 'industry leader'.

Meanwhile, Jayaprakash also lauded governmental support, particularly the approval of 100% foreign direct investment in the space sector, as a crucial step towards realizing Garuda Aerospace's vision of becoming the first Indian drone unicorn startup.

The drone maker stated that Garuda Aerospace's drones are highly customisable and designed to withstand atmospheric pressure and gravity, making them ideal for tasks such as surveying, mapping, and sample collection. The company has demonstrated significant strides in the drone sector, exemplified by the recent launch of its border patrol drone, 'Trishul'.

Significantly, Garuda Aerospace holds the distinction of being the first drone company in the country to receive dual approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), encompassing manufacturing and pilot training.

 With maiden order from ISRO, drone startup Garuda Aerospace forays into Space-Tech domain

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Xi hosts former Taiwanese president in Beijing, says nobody can stop 'family reunion'

C

hinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday held rare talks with the pro-China former president of Taiwan, Ma Ying-jeou, saying that any external interference could not stop the reunion of the two countries, CNN reported.

"Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are all Chinese people. There is no grudge that cannot be resolved, no issue that cannot be discussed and no force that can separate us," Xi told the former Taiwan president.

"External interference cannot stop the historic trend of the reunion of the family and the country," he added.

Ma Ying-jeou, who led Taiwan from 2008 to 2016 and is currently in Beijing as part of an 11-day tour of China, met Xi on Wednesday afternoon, CNN reported citing state broadcaster CCTV reported.

The carefully choreographed moment was steeped in political symbolism--it was the first time a former Taiwanese president was hosted by China's top leader in Beijing since Chiang Kai-shek's Kuomintang (KMT) fled to Taipei in 1949.

It was also the first meeting between Xi and former KMT leader Ma, since their historic summit in Singapore in 2015.

But their reunion also highlights the widening political divide across the Taiwan Strait and how Xi's ever-more aggressive posture toward Taipei has driven more Taiwanese away from China, according to the report.

In his opening remarks, Xi praised Ma for opposing 'Taiwanese independence', promoting cross-strait exchanges and agreeing that both sides of the strait belong to 'one China'.

In response, Ma said that although two sides of the strait developed under different systems, the people both belong to the Chinese nation, CNN reported.

"If a war breaks out between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, it will be an unbearable burden for the Chinese nation," he said, adding, "I sincerely hope that both sides respect the values and way of life treasured by the people and maintain peace across the strait."

But the appeal of a shared Chinese identity has waned considerably in Taiwan, as Xi ramps up military, economic and diplomatic pressure on its democratic island neighbour.

That trend was underscored in January when Taiwanese voters shrugged off warnings by China and handed the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) a historic third term by electing Lai Ching-te, who has long faced Beijing's wrath for championing Taiwan's sovereignty,

CNN reported that since then, Beijing has poached another of Taipei's dwindling number of diplomatic allies while ramping up patrols around Taiwan's frontline islands after two Chinese fishermen drowned in the nearby waters while continuing to fly its fighter jets near the self-ruled island.

Ma's meeting with Xi also coincides with a frenetic week of diplomatic activity in Washington, where President Joe Biden will host the first-ever leaders' summit between the US, Japan and the Philippines, CNN reported.

Joint concerns over China's increasing assertiveness under Xi, including toward Taiwan, are a key driver of that summit.

A senior source in the Taiwanese government told CNN that Beijing pushed back the meeting from Monday to coincide with the summit between Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday.

 Xi hosts former Taiwanese president in Beijing, says nobody can stop 'family reunion'

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Joe Biden hosts Japan's PM at White House, in strong message to China over policies in Indo-Pacific

U

S President Joe Biden on Wednesday hosted Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio for a state visit and held a crucial Oval Office meeting, reinforcing his commitment to bolstering the vital partnership in the Indo-Pacific amid a militarily and economically resurgent China, CNN reported.

Over 70 items covering a wide array of critical sectors are expected to be announced as part of the bilateral meeting between Biden and Kishida, according to senior administration officials.

These include a commitment to changing the US force structure in Japan to improve how Japanese and US forces are integrated, establish a 'military-industrial council' to evaluate where the two countries can co-produce defence weapons to improve cooperation, and items related to integrating anti-missile defence between the US, Australia and Japan, according to officials.

The announcements are all part of a major update to the nation's military alliance but elements of them will take some time to implement, including the change to the US force structure, which will take several months for both countries to work through, a senior official noted, according to CNN.

Speaking on the White House, South Lawns, on Wednesday morning, Biden touched on the "monumental alliance between our two great democracies."

"Together, we made it closer, stronger and more effective than ever before in history," Biden said at an official arrival ceremony.

He also recognised Japan's gift of 3,000 cherry trees more than 100 years ago as a symbol of that alliance, blooming each spring in Washington, DC. Japan has committed to planting 250 new trees along the Tidal Basin to honour the US's 250th birthday in 2026.

Biden acknowledged the 'devastating' history between the US and Japan. He travelled to Hiroshima last year for a summit with G7 leaders and toured the Hiroshima Peace Museum, which chronicles the vast destruction of the US atomic bomb in the city in 1945, in the closing days of World War II.

It would have been easy for the two countries to remain adversaries given their bloody history, Biden noted.

"Instead," he said, "we made a far better choice: We became the closest of friends."

"Today", Biden added, "Our democracies are beacons of freedom shining across the globe."

The leaders are also expected to detail space collaboration at a time when Japan has signalled an interest in landing its first astronaut on the Moon and lay out ways to increase people-to-people ties amid lagging student exchanges between the two countries in recent years. The astronaut would be the first non-American to set foot on the moon.

Some of these partnerships include a joint artificial intelligence research initiative between Carnegie Mellon University and Keio University in Tokyo, as well as another AI-related exchange between the University of Washington and Washington State and Tsukuba University in Japan, according to the officials. This will also include creating a scholarship to fund high school students from the US to travel to Japan to study and vice versa.

But even as the US and Japan are bolstering their cooperation across a range of sectors, the two countries have seen a recent difference on the economic front with the president opposing Japan's efforts to purchase US Steel.

Responding during a joint news conference to a question about the acquisition of the company-- at one point one of the most powerful companies in the world--by Japan-based Nippon Steel, Kishida described the USD 14.1 billion acquisition as an 'investment' in the United States.

"We hope these discussions will unfold in directions that would be positive for both sides," Kishida said. However, he did not directly address whether the two leaders discussed the acquisition during a private meeting held earlier in the day.

Biden, who previously said it was 'vital' that the company remain American-owned and operated, said during the press conference--the first he's held in 2024--that he stands by "my commitment to American workers".

The meeting between Biden and Kishida will be followed later this week by the first-ever leaders' summit between the US, Japan and the Philippines with Biden working to draw Pacific allies and partners closer as the region grapples with China's aggression and nuclear provocations from North Korea.

Kishida said during the news conference that Japan will continue to call on China to "fulfil its responsibilities as a major power", while also striving to establish a 'constructive and stable' relationship with the superpower.

"We confirmed that unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion is absolutely unacceptable wherever it may be," he added.

All of the deliverables on the agenda are part of a concerted military, diplomatic and strategic effort to try and 'flip the script' and counter Chinese efforts to isolate American allies such as the Philippines and Japan, according to the senior administration official.

"The idea of switching to a multilateral, lattice-like strategic architecture is to flip the script and isolate China," the official added.

Further, according to CNN, Japan has been at the centre of Biden's alliance building in the Indo-Pacific, as officials have seen a willing partner in Kishida, who has significantly shifted the country's defence posture in recent years and provided ongoing support to Ukraine amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Kishida has committed to increasing defence spending by 2 per cent of GDP by 2037 and acquired American Tomahawk missiles to increase its counterstrike capabilities.

Before entering the White House, the president and national security adviser Jake Sullivan tasked the transition team to tap into alliances and partnerships where they saw "extraordinary potential if only the United States turned back to it and reembraced it", another senior administration official said.

"What we did was put together a strategy that was designed to help a wide range of allies and partners see pieces of themselves and their own objectives in our Indo-Pacific strategy," the official said.

 Joe Biden hosts Japan's PM at White House, in strong message to China over policies in Indo-Pacific

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States asked to enforce weekly stock disclosure of pulses

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tates and Union Territories are directed to enforce weekly stock disclosure of pulses by all stockholding entities and verify the stocks declared by them.

In a statement, the Union Food and Public Distribution Ministry said stocks in warehouses located in major ports and pulses industry hubs should be verified from time to time and strict action should be taken on stockholding entities found to be reporting false information on the stock disclosure portal.

The Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Nidhi Khare took a meeting on Wednesday with Principal Secretaries and Secretaries of states as a follow-up of the April 5, 2024 directive to all the States/UTs to enforce pulses stock disclosure by stockholding entities.

The States and UTs were apprised of the need for increased vigilance over the stock position and price trends in respect of pulses to prevent hoarding and market manipulation.

The secretary also met with pulses importers associations and other pulses industry representatives to discuss import and stock disclosure issues.

As per the statement, the participants shared their views and inputs on the pulses industry in general and imports in particular.

Apart from the five major pulses -- Tur, Urad, Chana, Masur and Moong -- the States/UTs have been asked to monitor the stock position in respect of imported Yellow Peas.

The import of Yellow Peas has been allowed from 8th December 2023 for a period till 30th June, 2024 to augment overall availability of pulses.

Khare stressed the need to ensure that imported Yellow Peas are continuously released in the market.

Reportedly, the duty on yellow peas was first implemented in November 2017 at 50 per cent. India largely imports yellow peas from Canada and Russia.

Similarly, stocks of Tur, Urad and Masur with importers are to be monitored for smooth and continuous release in the market.

India is a large consumer and grower of pulses and it meets a portion of its consumption needs through imports. India primarily consumes chana, Masur, urad, Kabuli chana, and tur.

 States asked to enforce weekly stock disclosure of pulses

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Elon Musk says X received inquiry from US House of Representatives on actions in Brazil

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ocial media platform X owner Elon Musk has said that X has received an inquiry from the US House of Representatives "regarding actions taken in Brazil that were in violation of Brazilian law."

In a post on X, Elon Musk stated, "X just received an inquiry from the US House of Representatives regarding actions taken in Brazil that were in violation of Brazilian law. There were hundreds, if not thousands. This is getting spicy."

His statement on the social media platform came after a Brazilian judge started an investigation against Musk for hindering justice after the tech mogul said he would defy a court order to remove X accounts accused of spreading disinformation.

In a decision on Sunday, Brazil Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes said the probe will check whether Musk was involved in obstruction, criminal organisation and incitement, Al Jazeera reported.

Alexandre de Moraes wrote, "The flagrant conduct of obstruction of Brazilian justice, incitement of crime, the public threat of disobedience of court orders and future lack of cooperation from the platform are facts that disrespect the sovereignty of Brazil."

He ordered social media platform X to "refrain from disobeying judicial orders, including by reactivating an account that the Supreme Court ordered blocked." He said that X would face a fine of 100,000 reais per day for each account reinstated in violation of the court order, according to Al Jazeera report.

Brazil's Supreme Court Chief Justice wrote, "Social networks are not lands without laws." His order came after Elon Musk took to X to attack the judge after an announcement by the platform that it had been ordered to block certain accounts. It is unclear what accounts were blocked or when the court order was issued.

In a post on X, Musk wrote, "Coming shortly, X will publish everything demanded by @Alexandre and how those requests violate Brazilian law. This judge has brazenly and repeatedly betrayed the constitution and people of Brazil. He should resign or be impeached. Shame @Alexandre, shame."

Elon Musk said X would probably "lose all revenue" and have to shut in Brazil. However, he added that "principles matter more than profit". X owner also announced that he would "publish everything demanded by" de Moraes and show how "those requests violate Brazilian law," Al Jazeera reported.

Brazil's Solicitor General Jorge Messias expressed support for De Moraes. In a post on X, he stated, "we cannot live in a society in which billionaires domiciled abroad have control of social networks and put themselves in a position to violate the rule of law."

Alexandre de Moraes has led efforts to tackle misinformation and hate speech online, resulting in him being considered a saviour of democracy by many on the left and a menace to it by many on the right.

Since 2023, the judge has overseen a probe into Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro over allegations he had been planning a military coup before his defeat in the presidential polls in 2022, according to Al Jazeera report.

Brazil's Superior Electoral Tribunal, which is led by De Moraes, banned Bolsonaro from running for office in 2023 for allegedly spreading false information about the electoral system.

During his visit to Brazil in 2022, Musk met Bolsonaro to announce a plan to install his Starlink satellites over the Amazon rainforest to provide internet to schools and health facilities in remote areas. During the meeting, Bolsonaro called Musk a "legend of liberty" and termed his presence as "something spiritual."

 Elon Musk says X received inquiry from US House of Representatives on actions in Brazil

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Apple warns users in 91 countries, including India, of Pegasus-like 'mercenary spyware' attacks

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Phone maker Apple has issued a series of fresh notifications to users in 91 other countries, including India, cautioning them of 'mercenary spyware' including Pegasus malware that has stirred up significant controversy in recent times.

These new alerts, also received by users in India, are part of cautionary measures warning owners about potential risks to their privacy and data security.

In October 2023, Apple had sent a similar notification to political leaders across various parties in the country, including Congress's Shashi Tharoor, Aam Aadmi Party's Raghav Chadha, and Trinamool Congress' Mahua Moitra. The alert warned of a "potential state-sponsored spyware attack" targeting their iPhones.

In 2021, the Supreme Court had formed a committee of technical experts to look into allegations of unauthorised surveillance using the Pegasus software developed by Israeli firm NSO Group.

In August 2022, the Supreme Court-appointed committee concluded that the spyware was not found in the 29 mobile phones examined by it, but malware was found in five mobile phones.

Apple noted that according to public reporting and research by civil society organisations, technology firms and journalists, individually targeted attacks of such exceptional cost and complexity have historically been associated with state actors, including private companies developing mercenary spyware on their behalf, such as Pegasus from the NSO Group.

It said, though deployed against a very small number of individuals - often journalists, activists, politicians and diplomats - mercenary spyware attacks are ongoing and global.

Since 2021, Apple said that it has sent out threat notifications multiple times a year as it has detected these attacks, and to date the company has notified users in over 150 countries in total.

"The extreme cost, sophistication and worldwide nature of mercenary spyware attacks makes them some of the most advanced digital threats in existence today. As a result, Apple does not attribute the attacks or resulting threat notifications to any specific attackers or geographical regions," it said.

The phone maker in its notification provides additional steps that users can take to help protect their devices, including enabling Lockdown Mode.

Apple advised its users to update their devices with the latest security patches and exercise caution while interacting with suspicious links or messages.

 Apple warns users in 91 countries, including India, of Pegasus-like 'mercenary spyware' attacks

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Amid operational challenges, Vistara planning for summer schedule: CEO tells employees

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ata Group airline Vistara, which recently made headlines due to a significant number of flight cancellations and delays, is now focusing on operational planning for May and beyond.

In a newsletter to employees, Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan acknowledged the challenging start to the new financial year.

The airline faced significant operational disruptions from March 31 onwards.

"The anxiety and frustration felt by our customers was matched in even measure to the pain that all of us felt in seeing our much-loved brand drawing negative commentary from various quarters," the CEO's newsletter read.

A significant number of Vistara pilots had taken sick leave following the announcement of new salary rules, coinciding with the merger with Air India. The pilot shortage issue stemmed from pay cuts implemented after new flying hours regulations came into effect recently. Over 200 Vistara flights were affected--either cancelled or delayed--over the past two weeks.

Through the newsletter, Kannan assured employees that the worst was behind them. He added that the airline has stabilised its operations, with on-time performance (OTP) increasing to 89 per cent on April 9th.

Regarding the delays and flight cancellations, he wrote that there were a multitude of reasons behind them, including ATC delays, bird hits, and maintenance activities early last month--all of which had a cascading effect on the operations.

"We could and should have planned better, and this has been a learning experience for us which we will review thoroughly," he added.

He thanked all the staff who faced a daunting and escalating situation but still worked with utmost professionalism. "Dealing with disappointed customers is never easy but amidst all the chaos, we have received feedback on how some of you went beyond the call of duty to assist our customers to the extent possible."

"Let me reiterate that we are working with the relevant teams to introduce more resilience to our operations," he added.

Meanwhile, Vistara has scaled back its operations by around 25-30 flights per day, or roughly 10 per cent of the capacity it was operating. According to the CEO, flight cancellations are mostly on its domestic network.

On the customer front, he said the airline has reached out to each customer impacted by cancellations and delays over the affected period and provided the necessary compensation.

 Amid operational challenges, Vistara planning for summer schedule: CEO tells employees

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India showed the world that millets are 'superfood': PM Modi in Rajasthan

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mphasising the central government's focus on promoting millets, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that while earlier no one paid heed to it, today India has shown the world that millets are 'superfood' with rising global demand.

He also said that the upcoming Lok Sabha elections are not just to choose an MP but also to give a new energy to the campaign of 'Viksit Bharat'.

Addressing a public meeting in Rajasthan's Karauli, PM Modi said, "The result of June 4 is clearly visible here in Karauli. It is saying '4 June 400 paar' and the whole Rajasthan is saying 'Phir ek baar Modi Sarkar'."

"The Lok Sabha election of 2024 is not just limited to choosing the MP. is an election to provide new energy to the Vikshit Bharat campaign," he added.

Emphasising that Rajasthan is a huge producer of 'Shree Anna' (millets), the Prime Minister highlighted that the millets are being recognised globally today. He also recalled that the state banquet in the White House during his state visit included meals made by millets.

"Rajasthan is much ahead in producing 'Shree Anna' like jowar, bajra...Earlier, no one paid heed to the farmers producing 'coarse grain'. We carried out the Millet Mission and showed the world that our millet is a 'superfood'. Today, it is recognised as 'Shree Anna' and its demand is rising globally," PM Modi said.

"Last year, in the White House, US President (Joe Biden) had invited me. A huge banquet was organised, which had an all-vegetarian menu, and even included our coarse grain," he added.

Notably, 2023 was declared the 'International Year of Millets' by the United Nations, at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He also took a jibe at the Congress party for ignoring the issues of the poor, adding that crores of people are benefitting today with central government schemes like Kisan Samman Nidhi and Ujjawala.

Prime Minister Modi also stressed that it for the first time that a government has carried out free vaccinations for cattle and livestock.

"In the last 10 years, the BJP brought solutions to those problems on which the Congress had given up. Congress gave the slogan of 'Gareebi Hatao' for decades but Modi brought 25 crore of Indians out of poverty. Congress left farmers on their own but the BJP government is working to make farmers prosperous. Today 10 crore farmers are receiving Kisan Samman Nidhi," PM Modi said.

"It is for the first time that any government has been concerned for cattle too. In Rajasthan, domesticated animals of more than 80,000 farmers have been given free vaccinations," he further said.

Rajasthan sends 25 MPs to the Lok Sabha. The polling will be held in two phases on April 19 and 26. The counting of votes will be held on June 4.

BJP had won all 25 seats in the state in 2014. In 2019 also, the BJP-led alliance won all 25 seats with BJP winning 24.

 India showed the world that millets are 'superfood': PM Modi in Rajasthan

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Halle Berry talks about her role in Alexandre Aja's 'Never Let Go', says it was a challenge

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merican actor Halle Berry appeared in Las Vegas for Lionsgate's studio presentation to promote her film, Alexandre Aja's 'Never Let Go', which returns Berry to a genre she explored more than 20 years ago in prior works such as 'Gothika'. But this one drove her beyond her boundaries, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

'Never Let Go', which will be released on September 27, follows a woman and her twin kids as they fight to defend themselves from the evil that lurks in and around their house. They grasp close to one another and never let go because they must always be connected. However, one of the boys wonders if evil exists, resulting in a desperate battle for survival. Anthony B. Jenkins, Percy Daggs, Matthew Kevin Anderson, Christin Park, and Stephanie Lavigne co-star.

Aja directed the film from a script by Kevin Coughlin and Ryan Grassby. He also produced alongside Dan Cohen, Dan Levine and Shawn Levy with Berry, Dan Clarke, Connor DiGregorio, Holly Jeter, Emily Morris and Christopher Woodrow serving as executive producers.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the trailer showed Berry and her two fraternal twins living a gritty off-the-grid life in a remote house in the woods, seemingly after an apocalyptic event. A voiceover explains the plot further as one of the boys says, "Nothing could hurt them as long as they stay connected to their home." At one point, Berry says to them, "I know this life has been hard on you boys since the world ended. But the evil out there is clever. One touch without a rope is all that it takes. Never let go." Later, she doubles down by saying, "That rope is your lifeline. Never let go. Say it."

Berry shared that she accepted the role because she's a "bona fide adrenaline junkie" who has always loved these kinds of movies. "As a child, 'The Shining' was one of my favourites. This allowed me to be a part of a world that I've never seen before." The vibes seem to be comparable to previous post-apocalyptic films such as 'Bird Box' and 'A Quiet Place'.

"These boys have never left the house that they were born in for 10 years," Berry continued. "Right away, it was a creepy environment. I was challenged to bring reality to what that would be like. What does mothering look like in a house in the woods with no one around?"

It also required that she learn some survival skills. "There was no electricity, no lights, my character skinning squirrels, and they're eating bugs and frogs -- raw frogs -- in the woods. It was a challenge," Berry said, noting that there was "a little bit of Method acting" going on. "I had to skin a squirrel. These things wildly challenged me to create some reality within this world that felt so foreign."

Berry also claimed she drew on her personal experiences as a mother of two. "It's everything," she said of using personal experience to inform her work. "Since I became a mother 16 years ago, playing these kinds of roles has wildly excited me," said Berry, who also had a sweet moment onstage acknowledging that she won an Oscar for working with Lionsgate on Monster's Ball. "With this movie, it reminded me how I would protect my children with my life. We often say, 'I would take a bullet for my kids.' Would you take a knife for your kids?"

'Never Let Go' hits theaters on September 27.

 Halle Berry talks about her role in Alexandre Aja's 'Never Let Go', says it was a challenge

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Rongali Bihu fervour grips Assam, people throng markets to shop ahead of festival

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ongali Bihu fervour has gripped Guwahati and other parts of Assam to celebrate the biggest festival of the state, marking the Assamese New Year.

People have thronged to the markets in Guwahati to buy 'Gamosa', various dishes including 'Pitha' (rice cake), fresh cream, thick creamy curd, golden honey, different types of laddus made from coconut, jaggery, sesame seedsand rice flour, etc.

Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu is celebrated annually in the second week of April across the state with joy and fervour.

The people of the state are set to celebrate Uruka, the night before Rongali Bihu.

The week-long Bihu celebrations in Assam start with Goru Bihu, the day of Sankranti dedicated to livestock.

On the first day of Rongali Bihu, the cattle are washed and smeared with a paste of fresh turmeric, black lentil, etc., while people sing to them - "Lao kha, bengena kha, bosore bosore barhi ja, maar xoru, baper xoru, toi hobi bor bor goru (Eat gourd, eat brinjal, grow from year to year, your mother is small, your father is small, but you be a large one)", and then the people also worship the cattle.

Preparations to celebrate the biggest festival of Assam are in full swing.

Many Bihu organising committees have organised Bihu dance workshops in different parts of Guwahati.

Pub-Guwahati Bihu Sanmilan has organised a Bihu dance workshop at Chandmari field in Guwahati, where more than 700 students have participated.

Simanta Thakuria, General Secretary of Pub-Guwahati Bihu, while speaking to ANI, said, "This year, Pub-Guwahati Bihu Sanmilan has entered 63 years and we are trying to teach our culture to the new generation. We have organised this Bihu dance workshop. This is a 10-day workshop and it will continue till April 11. Along with students, many guardians also participated in this workshop. As of now, more than 700 students have participated in the workshop".

The Bihu dance workshop started on April 2.

Rongali Bihu is a multi-day festival that typically spans seven days, each day known as 'Xaat Bihu.' The celebration involves various cultural activities, traditional rituals, and feasting.

 Rongali Bihu fervour grips Assam, people throng markets to shop ahead of festival

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YEREVAN, 12 APRIL, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 12 April, USD exchange rate up by 2.38 drams to 393.84 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 0.72 drams to 419.32 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate up by 0.03 drams to 4.21 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 0.27 drams to 491.12 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 338.69 drams to 29701.20 drams. Silver price up by 1.39 drams to 354.73 drams.
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A mix of clouds and sun with gusty winds. High 72F. Winds WNW at 25 to 35 mph. Higher wind gusts possible..

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A few passing clouds. Low 44F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.
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A new research paper was published in Aging (listed by MEDLINE/PubMed as "Aging (Albany NY)" and "Aging-US" by Web of Science) Volume 16, Issue 6, entitled, "Geraniol attenuates oxidative stress and neuroinflammation-mediated cognitive impairment in D galactose-induced mouse aging model."

D-galactose (D-gal) administration was proven to induce cognitive impairment and aging in rodents' models. Geraniol (GNL) belongs to the acyclic isoprenoid monoterpenes. GNL reduces inflammation by changing important signaling pathways and cytokines, and thus it is plausible to be used as a medicine for treating disorders linked to inflammation. In this new study, researchers Peramaiyan Rajendran, Fatma J. Al-Saeedi, Rebai Ben Ammar, Basem M. Abdallah, Enas M. Ali, Najla Khaled Al Abdulsalam, Sujatha Tejavat, Duaa Althumairy, Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan, Sarah Abdulaziz Alamer, Gamal M. Bekhet, and Emad A. Ahmed from King Faisal University, Kuwait University, Center of Biotechnology of Borj-Cedria, Saveetha University, Alexandria University, and Assiut University examined the therapeutic effects of GNL on D-gal-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation-mediated memory loss in mice.

"Life expectancy in the 21st century is rising, resulting in more age-related illnesses, such as memory impairment and Alzheimer's disease. In this study, GNL was studied for its protective effect on D-gal-induced aging in mice."

The study was conducted using six groups of mice (6 mice per group). The first group received normal saline, then D-gal (150 mg/wt) dissolved in normal saline solution (0.9%, w/v) was given orally for 9 weeks to the second group. In the III group, from the second week until the 10th week, mice were treated orally (without anesthesia) with D-gal (150 mg/kg body wt) and GNL weekly twice (40 mg/kg body wt) four hours later. Mice in Group IV were treated with GNL from the second week up until the end of the experiment. For comparison of young versus elderly mice, 4 month old (Group V) and 16-month-old (Group VI) control mice were used.

"We evaluated the changes in antioxidant levels, PI3K/Akt levels, and Nrf2 levels. We also examined how D-gal and GNL treated pathological aging changes."

Administration of GNL induced a significant increase in spatial learning and memory with spontaneously altered behavior. Enhancing anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and activating PI3K/Akt were the mechanisms that mediated this effect. Further, GNL treatment upregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 to reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis. This was confirmed using 99mTc-HMPAO brain flow gamma bioassays.

"Thus, our data suggested GNL as a promising agent for treating neuroinflammation-induced cognitive impairment."
While debating the pros and cons of robotically assisted lung transplantation, Albert Jauregui, MD, PhD told attendees at the Annual Meeting and Scientific Sessions of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT), today in Prague that the time for robotic surgery is now.

Although robots are commonly used to assist in surgery, robotically assisted surgery is not routinely used for lung transplants. Approximately 4,600 lung transplants are performed annually around the world.

We've been doing robotically assisted, minimally invasive surgeries for lung cancer for the last several years. Lung cancer patients are already benefiting from robotic platforms to make their surgery less invasive, but patients who need a lung transplant are still being offered an aggressive surgery. For our team, it didn't make any sense. We felt like things had to start changing." Dr. Albert Jauregui, Chief of the Thoracic Surgery and Lung Transplant Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital in Barcelona, Spain

In February 2023, Dr. Jauregui's team performed Spain's first robotically assisted single-lung transplant; three months later they performed a second single-lung transplant. Both patients showed good improvement in the postoperative period and needed only mild medication for the pain caused by the surgery.

"We accomplished our main objective for this minimally invasive approach, which was to reduce the size of the surgical incision and the need for powerful pain drugs that interfere with wound healing," said Dr. Jauregui. "We are happy with the outcome of the first lung transplant patients with robotic surgery, but we have to continue working to be able to offer this type of surgery to more patients."

Dr. Jauregui's team spent hours in the lab performing robotically assisted surgeries with synthetic lungs before moving to large animal models. By deflating the lung and relying on the skin's flexibility, surgeons discovered they could use a smaller incision below the sternum to remove and insert the lungs.

"Lung transplants are a very tough procedure, from donor selection through the surgery to the postoperative period," said Dr. Jauregui. "Unlike other organs that are all protected inside the body, the lungs are connected to the environment through breathing. It's one of the most difficult organs to transplant."

After the two successful robotically assisted lung transplants, Dr. Jauregui's team began working with a medical device company to develop design robotic instruments specifically for lung transplantation.

"Our next goal is to perform a bilateral lung transplant," he said. "We plan to perform five robotically assisted procedures this year and 10 next year."

Another objective for Dr. Jauregui's department is to disseminate the new technique to more lung transplant programs.

"We believe that reducing surgical aggression is better for patients, however, we need a greater number of procedures to confirm our theory," he said.

Co-presenter Konrad Hoetzenecker, MD, PhD, director of the Vienna Lung Transplant Program in Austria, acknowledged that "keeping the incisions as small as possible has reduced surgical trauma in lung cancer patients, attempting to do the same with lung transplants sounds at first sight reasonable."

"However, the technique of robotic lung transplantation is premature, and it is questionable whether a robotic platform will ever be suitable to support lung transplantation," he said. "Unlike other thoracic procedures, surgical time is an essential factor for the functionality of the implanted donor organ. Utilizing a robot in lung transplantation means longer operation times and this poses a significant threat to graft function and the survival of a patient."

Dr. Hoetzenecker underlined that robotic platforms need significant further development before they could eventually become an option for lung transplantation.
A noninvasive brain stimulation treatment improved depression and anxiety symptoms among older adults in a new University of Florida-led study.

Improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms were greatest among patients who reported higher symptom levels before treatment. Among participants who experienced moderate to severe state anxiety -; or anxiety associated with stressful situations or events -; the treatment benefits persisted at a one-year followup.

The findings, published in the journal Brain Stimulation, suggest the treatment, known as transcranial direct current stimulation, or tDCS, holds promise as a noninvasive, drug-free option to treat depression and anxiety symptoms, which affect 1 in 4 older adults.

Depression and anxiety can impact our overall mental health, cognitive function and ability to function independently as we age. Often, front-line treatments involve medication and/or therapy, which can both be effective. However, there is also a pressing need for accessible and noninvasive options that can be deployed in people who are either nonresponsive to pharmaceutical treatment, unable to access or participate in clinic-based intensive treatment programs, or for a variety of other reasons." Adam Woods, Ph.D., study's senior author, associate dean for research and a professor of clinical and health psychology at the UF College of Public Health and Health Professions and co-director of UF's Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory Clinical Translational Research

Treatment benefits in the UF-led study were seen among participants with subclinical depression and anxiety, meaning their symptoms may not meet the criteria for diagnosis. Yet, even subclinical depression and anxiety can be associated with cognitive decline in older adults, the researchers say.

The tDCS treatment is delivered by a safe and weak electrical current passed through electrodes placed on a person's head. Researchers targeted the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain associated with cognition and emotion regulation.

The new study was conducted as part of the National Institute on Aging-funded Augmenting Clinical Training in Older Adults Study, the largest study of its kind with older adults participating at UF and University of Arizona study sites. Nearly 400 older adults were randomly assigned to one of two groups: 12 weeks of tDCS paired with cognitive training designed to improve working memory and processing speed, or 12 weeks of cognitive training paired with a placebo version of tDCS.

Investigators also collected a wealth of data from cognitive, functional and neuroimaging tests as well as self-report measures of psychological symptoms, including depression and anxiety.

After controlling for factors such as prescription drugs that may impact depression and anxiety symptoms, the study team found that participants who received the tDCS treatment had significant improvements in mild depression and moderate to severe state anxiety, compared with the group that did not receive tDCS.

"Extensive research has demonstrated the efficacy of active stimulation to this area of the brain in reducing psychological symptoms in individuals with diagnosed psychiatric disorders," said Hanna Hausman, the study's lead author and a UF PHHP clinical psychology Ph.D. student in neuropsychology. "It was an unexpected yet welcome surprise to witness similar effects in our sample of older adults without significant psychiatric histories, especially on a large scale. Demonstrating this therapeutic effect is important because even subclinical depression and anxiety symptoms in older adults are associated with adverse outcomes."

Next steps for this research should include a phase 3 randomized clinical trial designed to assess the effect of tDCS and cognitive training on anxiety among a large and diverse group of older adults, the investigators say. The Korea Food and Drug Administration has approved tDCS as an at-home treatment for depression for adults in South Korea, and with additional study, it could become an accessible and easy-to-use treatment in the U.S. once sufficient evidence is available for U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval.

"tDCS treatment is cost-effective, portable and can be seamlessly integrated with existing mental health therapies or used as a standalone intervention," Hausman said. "Its potential for at-home self-administration would further expand accessibility and reduce personnel costs, making it a promising intervention for individuals who may experience barriers accessing face-to-face clinical care."
YEREVAN, APRIL 12, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on April 12 received the former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of the Arab Republic of Egypt, UNESCO Director-General candidate Khaled El-Enany, the Foreign Ministry of the Republic of Armenia said in a post on X.

''Recalling high-level visits and discussions, the interlocutors discussed prospects for implementation of bilateral projects and further cooperation between Armenia andEgypt in multilateral platforms, in particular in UNESCO.

Strong civilizational and cultural ties connecting two nations were emphasized,'' reads the post.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently said that increased business confidence coupled with the governments focus on infrastructure could lead to a sustained revival in the investment cycle.

According to the RBI Monetary Policy Report for April 2024, domestic economic activity remained strong in the first half of 2023-24, with strong fundamentals amid the challenges of weak global demand.

According to the report, private consumption was supported by urban demand, while capital goods investment and decreased net worldwide demand drove an increase in real GDP (gross domestic product). It has been also reported that manufacturing activity strengthened on the supply side.

The sector benefited from lower raw material costs and improvements in the global supply system. Also, construction activities remained strong due to increasing demand for housing and the governments emphasis on infrastructure.

The RBI report said, Going forward, private consumption will be supported by better rural demand prospects and rising consumer confidence.

The government is said to further focus on infrastructure creation, which will boost private consumption. The increase in corporate investment and enthusiasm at the business level could sustain the revival of the investment cycle. This is encouraging for increased productivity and economic growth.

The report further states, The growth potential of the economy at the medium and long-term level is increasing. This is due to structural factors such as improvement in physical infrastructure, development of world-class digital and payment technology, ease of doing business, increasing labour force participation, and improvement in the quality of fiscal expenditure.

The government has projected the current fiscal situation to increase with private investment in 2024-25. It is projected that capital spending will reach Rs 11.11 lakh crore, an increase of 11 per cent for the year. In the financial year 202324, capital expenditure increased by 37.5 per cent to Rs 10 lakh crore.

A year ago, consumer confidence hit a record high, according to the RBI survey. It also stated that investment activity prospects are still favourable. This is because of rising private capital expenditure, steady and strong government capital expenses, solid bank and company balance sheets, higher capacity utilization, and strong business optimism.
Petrol and Diesel Prices On April 12, 2024: Today, on 12 April, new petrol and diesel rates have been released across the country. Every day at 6 am, government oil companies release new prices of petrol and diesel in the country. In such a situation, before leaving home with your car, know what are the rates of petrol and diesel (Petrol Diesel Rates) in your city.

Let us tell you that government oil companies reduced the prices of petrol and diesel on March 14. A relief of Rs 2 each was given in the price of petrol and diesel. However, since then there has been no major change in the price of petrol and diesel. Let us know what are the latest rates of petrol and diesel across the country.

In India, the pricing of petrol and diesel is subject to influences like freight charges, value-added tax (VAT), and local taxes, resulting in different rates across states.

Petrol-diesel prices in metros (Petrol Diesel Prices)

After this cut, the price of petrol in the national capital (Petrol Price Today in Delhi) is now Rs 94.72 per liter, which was earlier Rs 96.72 per liter. Whereas diesel (Diesel Price In Delhi) is Rs 87.62 per liter, which was earlier Rs 89.62 per liter. Today petrol has become Rs 104.21 per liter in Mumbai, Rs 103.94 in Kolkata and Rs 100.75 per liter in Chennai. Whereas the price of diesel has become Rs 92.15 per liter in Mumbai, Rs 90.76 in Kolkata and Rs 92.34 per liter in Chennai.

Where petrol and diesel became cheap and where expensive (Petrol-Diesel Fresh Rates)

Noida: Petrol is Rs 94.81 per liter and diesel is Rs 87.94 per liter

Gurugram : Petrol Rs 95.18 per liter and diesel Rs 88.03 per liter

Chandigarh: Petrol is Rs 94.22 per liter and diesel is Rs 82.38 per liter

Hyderabad: Petrol at Rs 107.39 per liter and diesel at Rs 95.63 per liter

Jaipur: Petrol is Rs 104.86 per liter and diesel is Rs 90.34 per liter

Patna: Petrol Rs 105.16 per liter and diesel Rs 92.03 per liter

Lucknow: Petrol is Rs 94.63 per liter and diesel is Rs 87.74 per liter

Factors Affecting Petrol And Diesel Prices In India

Crude oil price: The primary raw material for the production of petrol and diesel is crude oil, and as such, its price directly influences the ultimate cost of these fuels.

The exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the US dollar: As a major importer of crude oil, Indias petrol and diesel prices are also influenced by the exchange rate between the Indian rupee and the US dollar.

Tax: Various taxes on petrol and diesel are imposed by both the central and state governments. These taxes may differ across states, exerting a notable influence on the ultimate prices of petrol and diesel.

The cost of refining:

The final price of petrol and diesel is additionally influenced by the expenses incurred in refining crude oil into these fuels. The refining process can be costly, and the refining expenses may fluctuate based on factors like the type of crude oil utilised and the efficiency of the refinery.

The demand for petrol and diesel: The demand for petrol and diesel can also affect their prices. If demand for these fuels increases, it can lead to higher prices.

Know the price of petrol and diesel through SMS

You can also find out the latest rates of petrol and diesel in your city through SMS. If you are a customer of Indian Oil, then you will have to write RSP along with the city code and send it to 9224992249. If you are a customer of BPCL, then you can get information about the new price of petrol and diesel by writing RSP and sending it to 9223112222. Whereas, if you are a customer of HPCL, then you can find out the price of petrol and diesel by writing HP Price and sending it to 9222201122.
Vodafone Idea FPO: Vodafone Idea, Indias third major telecom sector player, is looking to raise up to Rs 20,000 crore crore via a follow-on public offer (FPO), company in the early hours of Friday, informed the exchanges.

Vodafone Ideas FPO will open on April 18 and close on April 22. The anchor investor offers will be approved on April 16, the company said in an exchange filing.

The board has approved the adoption and filing of the Red Herring Prospectus (RHP) for the same with the Registrar of Companies, Gujarat, the exchange filing said.

During the intraday trade on April 10, Vodafone Ideas shares were edging lower. After the report related to the planned FPO was out, the shares briefly gained as against the previous days close.

Vodafone Idea will also participate in road shows and interact with investors / analysts starting April 15 till the closing of the offer.

What Is A FPO?

A Follow on Public Offer is a process by which a company, that is already listed on the bourses, issues new shares to investors or existing shareholders, generally the promoters. The company raises additional funds through the issue of these shares.

Apart from the Rs 20,000 crore equity fund raise, Vodafone Idea is also said to be in talks with banks to tie up debt funding, taking the total fund raise to Rs 45,000 crore as a combination of equity and debt.

The shares issued under the FPO will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold within the US, unless there is an exemption from registration requirements of the said act and other state securities laws. No public offering of securities in the United States is contemplated, Vodafone Ideas exchange filing highlighted.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, has commenced the online counselling process for the Joint Admission Test for Masters (IIT JAM) 2024. Students who have obtained scores equal to or greater than the JAM 2024 cut-off marks for their particular category are eligible to apply for JAM counselling 2024. Candidates can fill out the IIT JAM 2024 counselling application form through the official website of the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras at jam.iitm.ac.in. It is to be noted that the last date to submit the IIT JAM 2024 counselling form is April 24.

During IIT JAM 2024 counselling, applicants will be given three alternatives. The first one is Accept and freeze, which involves reserving their seats by paying the seat booking fees after accepting the option allocated to them.

Second comes the Accept and upgrade option, in which candidates agree to the allotted option but keep a lookout for better opportunities in the following rounds, typically receiving higher preference in subsequent IIT JAM 2024 admission lists.

The last option is Reject and quit, which allows applicants to deny the allotted option and withdraw their name from the list.

IIT JAM Counselling 2024: Seat Booking Fee

After the seat allotment announcement, candidates who accept the seats will be required to pay the seat booking fees for IIT JAM 2024. Applicants falling under the General and Other Backward Classes (OBC) categories are required to pay Rs 10,000. On the other hand, candidates belonging to the Physically Handicapped (PH), Scheduled Caste (SC), and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, will have to pay Rs 5,000 as IIT JAM seat booking fees.

IIT JAM Counselling 2024: Schedule

 JAM counselling application begins: April 10

 JAM counselling application last date: April 24

 Last date for data correction: April 24

 JAM first admission list: May 31

 Deadline to make payments for seat bookings: June 4

 JAM second admission list: June 12

 Deadline to make payments for seat bookings: June 16

 Opening of the withdrawal option: June 15

 Closing of the withdrawal option: July 1

 Publication of the third admission list: June 21

 Last date to make payments for seat booking: June 25

 Publication of the fourth and final admission list: July 5

 Last date to make payments for seat booking: July 8

 Downloading of offer letters: July 12

Meanwhile, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, conducts the JAM exam every year for students seeking admission to various M.Sc., M.Sc.-M.Tech., Joint M.Sc.-Ph.D. and other post-graduate programs in different IITs and participating institutes.
Shivamogga is witnessing a battle between friends-turned-foes with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rebel KS Eshwarappa fighting as an Independent candidate in Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Old timers in Shivamogga remember the days when former Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa and KS Eshwarappa together rode the same battered scooter all over the city in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Two RSS workers, who were struggling to find their feet in politics were close friends. Their inseparable relationship even earned them the title of Rama and Lakshmana.

Apart from the RSS ideology, they had many more things in common. Both of them were from poor families, they were self-made and had a zeal to make it big in politics. Among the two, Yediyurappa had a bigger stature because of his leadership qualities and Lingayat faith. Eshwarappa was confined only to Shimoga city with no following outside and that has not changed even today.

In 1983, Yediyurappa made his debut in the Karnataka Assembly on a BJP ticket. In the same year, Eshwarappa was also elected to the Shimoga municipality on the same partys ticket. Their political journey has taken them to the zenith of power both in party and government over the past 40 years.

By filing a nomination against Yediyurappas son and BJP candidate BY Raghavendra, Eshwarappa seems to have ended the old bond. Furious over denial of ticket to his son KE Kanthesh from neighbouring Haveri, Eshwarappa has launched an all-out attack on Yediyurappa, his son and Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra, holding them responsible for the injustice meted out to him.

Differences between Eshwarappa and Yediyurappa are not new. When Yediyurappa had briefly walked out of the BJP to form his own political outfit Karnataka Janatha Party or KJP in 2012, then deputy CM Eshwarappa had refused to go with him calling him a traitor. He had even opposed Yediyurappas return to BJP closer to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Today, he himself has almost quit the BJP vowing to decimate the BSY family in Shivamogga district politics.

Eshwarappas daily dose of abuses have rattled Yediyurappa. He never expected this kind of an open revolt by Eshwarappa who was forced to retire from electoral politics in the recent Assembly elections. Yediyurappa was under the impression that Eshwarappa would stay silent, keeping his sons political future in mind, but he has gone after him levelling one or the other allegation against him.

Those who understand Shimoga politics know that it will be difficult for Eshwarappa to split a large chunk of BJP votes. Unlike Yediyurappa, Eshwarappa does not have a mass following across castes. Meanwhile, Yediyurappa has the blessings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Eshwarappa is harping on Hindutva, positioning himself as the custodian of Hindutva brand of politics in Karnataka. Some hardcore Hindutva elements in the BJP have sided with him, causing a minor tremor in the Yediyurappa camp.

However, a large section of the party workers and leaders are still with Yediyurappa. Some of Eshwarappa backers expect him to take away a lakh votes from the BJP, causing the defeat. Others disagree with this theory. They feel that he may not get more than 50,000 votes and at best he can reduce the margin of BJPs victory.

The ruling Congress, which is cautiously and keenly watching the unfolding developments in the BJP, is playing it safe describing it as drama.

The Congress has fielded late CM S Bangarappas daughter Geetha Shivarajkumar. Her younger brother Madhu Bangarappa is Primary and Secondary Education minister in the Siddaramaiah government in the state. Madhu and Geethas husband, cinema star Shivaraj Kumar, are leading the campaign hoping a realignment of caste dynamics will help her sail through this time.

In 1991, Yediyurappa had lost to Bangarappas relative KG Shivappa in Shivamogga. Nineteen years later, Yediyurappas son Raghavendra humbled sitting MP Bangarappa in his maiden election in 2009. In 2014, Geetha, who had contested on JDS ticket, finished third against Yediyurappa.

The Congress is expecting a consolidation of backward classes, minorities and SC/STs votes against BJP. The same strategy had worked earlier for them during Bangarappas time.

The BJP is banking on Modi and Yediyurappas personal clout.

Though Eshwarappa is breathing fire every hour, already declaring his victory, he also knows that even wrecking the chances of BJP is an uphill task.

Voting for the Shivamogga Lok Sabha constituency will take place on May 7 while the counting of votes will take place on June 4.
Mohammad Azam Khan is in jail and none of his family members or aides are in contest this time from Rampur, making it one of the first Lok Sabha elections here minus the bahubali leader. But the strongmans shadow is hanging large, at least over the official Samajwadi Party candidate  Maulana Mobibullah Nadvi.

Azams supporters term Nadvi an outsider and are not backing him whole-heartedly, brightening the chances of sitting BJP MP Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi again.

Speaking to News18, Nadvi admits that some SP supporters are upset. In a family, there is always some difficulty and people get upset but everyone is clear that they may be unhappy but they will vote ultimately for party supremo Akhilesh Yadavs candidate, Nadvi told News18. Azam Khan had wanted Akhilesh Yadav to contest from Rampur. Khan is supporting me along with his supporters. Akhilesh has sent meit is a vote to support him itself, he says.

Nadvi is the imam of Jana Masjid in Parliament House in Delhi and was a surprise choice for this seat with over 50 per cent Muslim voters. He is at pains to explain that he was born and brought up in a village near Rampur city and went to Delhi to get religious education from Jamia Milia and then became an Imam.

BJPs Lodhi, meanwhile, says there is no contest. Rampur has made up its mind. There is a Modi wave in the country and Rampur. Our opposition candidates are nowhere to be seen. I have not seen any vehicle or candidate of the opposition. It is a strange election. It would have been good to have a fight. But it is a one-sided election, Lodhi told News18.

The Azam Shadow

Go anywhere in Rampur and one finds a foundation stone or plaque laid in the name of Azam Khan. The multiple-time MLA from Rampur and his son Abdullah Azam, who was MLA from Suar constituency near Rampur, stand disqualified from contesting after being convicted in criminal cases.

The bulldozer has run with aplomb in Rampur on Azam Khans properties under Yogi Adityanaths rule. The paint is also peeling off the main signboard of Azam Khans pet project  the Mohammad Ali Jauhar University  and the main building seems to be in ruins.

When asked about the Azam factor, Nadvi says: Election is never on any personality, it is a democratic system. BJPs Lodhi also says the Azam era is over. It is democracy and a lot changes with time. Azam Khan once had his government in Lucknow and there was a thekadari (contract) system in the Samajwadi Party. This constituency was like a contract with Azam Khan. But there was no development in villages here under his rule. We did development here in the last two years, Lodhi says. He won the seat in a bypoll in 2022 after Azam Khan was disqualified, but that poll saw just 32 per cent polling.

Nadvi says the bypoll in 2022 was riddled with irregularities as many Muslim voters did not go out to vote, fearing certain officials. This is a problem this time tooI have been telling the authorities, he says. Lodhi, however, counters this, saying the BJP has given benefits and schemes to Muslims and Hindus in Rampur and this is why many Muslims will also vote for the BJP. A group of Muslims in Suar, Rampur, told News18 that they will vote for BJP as schemes have reached them and there is no other good candidate in the fray. There is peace in Rampur, they say.

Nadvi touring Muslim Households

News18 found Nadvi, who is facing a tough battle, going door-to-door to meet Muslims on Eid and making an emotional appeal.

People here feel an Imam has come from the Parliament House Masjid from where Maulana Azad had come and has come to a place where Maulana Azad had fought the election. I am giving a call for love and communal harmony. People dont want votes to be split. Voting for the BSP candidate is a waste of ones vote, Nadvi told News18. He is also telling people that Rampur has seen a lot of stress and action by authorities and there is a mistrust among people and officials.

Lodhi says such tactics wont work. Our schemes have reached both Muslims and Hindus without bias or partiality. That is why both Muslims and Hindus are standing with the BJP in Rampur. This has always been a place of communal harmony. People want to be here with whoever works for development. I have served two years here, Lodhi told News18 in Rampur.

In the Nasrullah Bazaar of Rampur, two burqa-clad Muslim women told News18 that the election is not about Hindu-Muslim issues but about who can bring development. The fact is neither Azam Khan nor BJP have brought development here, besides the fancy entry gates which came up, one of the women said.
North Karnatakas Bagalkot Lok Sabha seat is witnessing an intriguing contest in the making between lawyer-turned-politician and Youth Congress leader Samyuktha Patil and Bharatiya Janata Party parliamentarian PC Gaddigoudar, who is seeking re-election for the fifth time.

Samyuktha is among the fresh faces launched by the Congress in Karnataka to try to wrest the Bagalkot seat in favour of the party. The region has been a stronghold of the BJP since the Congress lost the seat in 2004.

Confident and razor-sharp focused, Samyuktha believes her campaign will give her BJP rival a really good fight.

The environment is very positive and every day we are gaining an inch. The party workers are very charged and want the Congress to win from this seat, said the young candidate as she took some time off from her campaign to speak to News18.

Samyuktha is the daughter of six-time MLA Shivanand Patil, who is also a minister in the present Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka. Hailing from a political background does not make her fight any easier, says the young leader. She believes that politicians are made by the people, and they must have accessibility amongst the party workers and voters to work or even win elections.

When asked how she sees contesting a parliamentary poll without the experience of having faced a state assembly or corporation election, the Congress candidate said that as a youth leader who has worked with the NSUI and Mahila Congress, she has gained sufficient technical expertise, which has been helping her manoeuvre through the parliamentary poll campaign. She speaks of how, from a young age, she has been taking an active part in her father Shivanand Patils election campaigns.

I was completely hands-on when it came to strategy, planning, and execution for my fathers seat in the last assembly election. Obviously, that is different from contesting an election and that too as an MP candidate. I have contested and won elections in different positions including being a two-term director of the DCC bank, the first woman director in its 100-year history to be elected to that position, she responded. I also took part in Youth Congress elections where I had the highest number of voters enrolled and voters overall. In this election, I think I am on good solid ground.

BJPs choice, PC Gaddigoudar, is a seasoned and popular politician of the region and is considered instrumental in carving out the district of Bagalkot from Bijapur. Appointed as the chairman of the committee to study the reorganisation of districts by then Karnataka chief minister Ramakrishna Hegde, Gaddigoudars formidable political experience stands as a tough challenge to the new young leader, Samyuktha.

As she plans to take on her experienced opponent, Samyuktha says that she has built her campaign on two major issues: five guarantees of the Congress and the development of Bagalkot. She believes that the five guarantee schemes implemented by the ruling Congress in Karnataka  Gruha Jyothi, Gruha Lakshmi, Shakti, Anna Bhagya, and Yuva Nidhi  have reached every last household and woman in the state, across all party lines and demographics.

The incumbent MP has not done much when it comes to the development of the constituency. For example, there is a Bagalkot-Kudachi railway line that was supposed to be 147 km but has only reached 37 km in the past twenty years. It was already inaugurated before his term. The BJP has been in power for ten years and he was with the ruling government; despite that he was unable to get it done, the candidate said.

She also wants to focus on developing tourism for the famous rock-cut temples of Badami, which was once the regal capital of the Badami-Chalukya kings in the 6th and 7th centuries.

Much has to be done to develop Badamis tourism industry. The heritage site is world-class and there is a need to tap its beauty. Development of this region has been subpar, she points out.

Raising the issue that the Congress has been campaigning across the state, drought, Samyuktha alleges that Bagalkot has faced two consecutive drought years, yet MP Gaddigoudar did not raise his voice on the issue in Parliament.

Bagalkot is an agrarian constituency, and he has not even raised his voice on seeking NDRF funds to be released for our farmers, she said.

29-year-old Samyuktha promises to bring industries into the constituency to generate employment and also seek compensation for the farmers who lost their land and jobs related to the Upper Krishna Project.

The youth resonate with me as they realise that I will be able to speak for their needs. I will help the farmers raise their voice in parliament on Kalasa Banduri, which is an important project for the Nargund and Badami part of the constituency, she added.

Her candidature also faced a roadblock with Hungund MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar being upset that his wife Veena was denied the Bagalkot Lok Sabha ticket and refusing to back Samyuktha. While there were rumours of boycotting the campaign, it is learnt that the MLA has finally fallen in line with the Congress high commands diktat and has agreed to canvass for Patil.

I know I will come out victorious and I have the support of my party workers, local and state leaders. I am sure people will support me across the constituency and our party workers are looking forward to putting their best foot forward in winning this election, she added with confidence.
As the country nears polling days for the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission of India is leaving no stone unturned to ensure citizens are well-informed and educated. The polls commission recently took up a unique initiative to promote awareness among voters  Underwater voting.

As part of the campaign, a group of skilled scuba divers took to the depths of the sea in Chennai to highlight the importance of voting in the upcoming general elections, the biggest event of the Indian democracy.

Posting a 51-second video clip showcasing the drill on X, the EC said, Ready to vote? Make a splash! In a unique voter awareness initiative, scuba divers in Chennai dove into the sea, enacting the voting process sixty feet underwater in Neelankarai..

Ready to vote? Make a splash!In a unique voter awareness initiative, scuba divers in Chennai dove into the sea, enacting the voting process sixty feet underwater in Neelankarai.  Credit : @TNelectionsCEO #ChunavKaParv #DeshKaGarv #LokSabhaElections2024 #YouAreTheOne pic.twitter.com/wjRZZHRlh4  Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) April 11, 2024

The divers carried a mock Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) as they plunged sixty feet underwater and displayed placards to raise awareness about voting for the upcoming polls.

Reportedly, the programme was organised by SB Aravind Tharunsri, a scuba dive instructor and director at Temple Adventure.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024

The Lok Sabha elections in India will take place in seven phases. The first phase is scheduled for April 19, followed by the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth phase on May 13, the fifth phase on May 20, the sixth phase on May 25, and the seventh phase on June 1.

In addition to the Lok Sabha polls, assembly elections will also be held in four states: Odisha, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.

Voting for the Northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim is scheduled for April 19th, while Andhra Pradesh will hold elections on May 13th. Odisha will have elections in four phases May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.
Churu Lok Sabha constituency, situated in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, is one of the 25 parliamentary constituencies. It falls under the General category and includes the entire Churu district, along with a portion of the Hanumangarh district. It currently encompasses eight Legislative Assembly segments  Nohar and Bhadra in Hanumangarh district, and Sadulpur, Taranagar, Sardarshahar, Churu, Ratangarh, and Sujangarh (SC) in Churu district. Churu will vote in Lok Sabha elections in the first phase of polling on April 19 and the counting of votes will be held on June 4. The key candidates in the fray are BJPs Devendra Jhajaria and Rahul Kaswan of the Congress.

Churu  A BJP Bastion

The BJP has been ruling the seat since 1999. In 2014, Rahul Kaswan, son of the then MP Ram Singh Kaswan, won the seat with a massive margin of 2,95,000 votes and a vote share of 44.85 per cent against the BSP.

Kaswans score improved further in 2019, when he retained the seat with a margin of over 3,34,000 votes and a vote share of almost 60 per cent against the Congress which had fielded a Muslim candidate and emerged as the second-largest party. The BSP slipped to the fourth place with a vote share of only 1.21 per cent.

The 2024 election in Churu, however, is going to be a tight contest between BJP and Congress. In a pivotal plot twist, the odds are stacked in favour of Congress since Rahul Kaswan switched parties after being denied a ticket by the BJP.

The Rahul Kaswan Factor

Rahul Kaswan and his father Ram Singh Kaswan, before him, have been consistently winning the seat since 1999. The Kaswans are an influential political family with tremendous sway, especially among Jat voters who form 15 per cent of the population in the state of Haryana.The narrative among Jat voters is that the BJP has let down one of their biggest leaders by denying him a re-election and cutting down his rising stature.

Rahul Kaswan, 47, has played an exhaustive role in ensuring implementation of central schemes during his term as a BJP MP.

Kaswan joining the Congress also has the added angle of addressing the issues of farmers, predominantly Jats, who make up a significant portion of the constituency. He has vowed to take up farmers issues.

The BJP has granted ticket to Devendra Jhajaria, who is also from the Jat community, and a Paralympic gold medallist.

Jhajaria, however, is not a recognised political figure and is no match for Kaswans aggressive brand of Jat politics.

Why matters soured between Kaswan and the BJP is rooted in the traditional Rajput-Jat rivalry that flows along this belt. Rajputs are numerically smaller but form the powerful ruling elite.

Rajput leader Rajendra Rathore, another tall figure in the state, has been accused by Kaswan of being instrumental behind the ticket denial to him.

Incidentally, Kaswan is married to the niece of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankar and his supporters are miffed that even that could not save his seat.

HOW BJP, CONGRESS FARE

The Narendra Modi factor remains strong but BJP faces some challenges owing to the partys fallout with the Kaswans.

Churu is the place from where the prime minister made his first address immediately after the Balakot airstrikes and it made a significant impact in the seat. This event is said to have propelled the partys fortunes further in the Jat belt.

However, the key issues since then have shifted to the recent friction between Jats and the BJP first with the farmers protests and then with the wrestlers protests over alleged sexual harassment of female wrestlers.

Nationalism and Hindutva, especially Ram Mandir inauguration, will help the BJP significantly. Upper castes and Rajput votes lean towards BJP, and the backward castes will be split between parties.

So far as the Congress is concerned, the five years of the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government in the state had left many unhappy, especially among the farmer community.

The recent exit of 1,370 leaders, among them former ministers, sarpanches, pradhans, and ex-MLAs to the BJP, also caused significant upheaval within the Congress establishment. However, the party has consistently backed Jats on many issues in the last 3-4 years. Now, with Rahul Kaswan joining the Congress party, it has been placed in an advantageous position.

Kaswan could potentially swing Jat votes in the entire Shekhawati region which includes Churu, Nagaur, Jhunjhunu and Bikaner. The Muslim community, that forms 12.9 per cent of the voter population, is also expected to back the Congress. This has given Congress a significant edge in a seat where it previously stood little chance.

Voter Demographics

 Total number of voters (2019): 20 lakh

 Urban: 24.4%

 Rural: 75.6%

 Literacy rate: 56.83%

Voters by Caste (Approximate):

 SC: 22.3%

 ST: 0.6%

Voters by Religion (2011 Census):

 Muslim: 12.9%

 Hindu: 85.7%

 Christian: 0.06%

 Sikh: 1.3%

Key Issues Affecting the Constituency
Omar Abdullah, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, who has entered the poll fray from Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency, in an exclusive conversation with News18, said the fight for Article 370, which gave special status to J&K, will continue both inside and outside Parliament.

His party, National Conference (NC), has also announced Shia leader and former minister Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi as its candidate from Srinagar after Abdullahs father and sitting MP, Farooq Abdullah, decided to stay away from elections, citing health issues. Both seats are expected to witness a pitched battle.

On being asked why the Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), a political alliance formed after the abrogation of Article 370 regarding bringing back the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, was silent, he said the NC has been vocal and will raise its voice. There has been no silence on the part of parties about 370. All our speeches have focused on August 5, 2019. Not only statehood, the way our dignity, self-respect and identity were taken away, our jobs and every aspect of our lives were threatenedwe have linked that to writing down 370, he told News18.

Abdullah said this Lok Sabha election is unique for many reasons, particularly after the delimitation of the assembly segments in Jammu and Kashmir. For the first time, we have a constituency with segments on both sides of the mountains in south Kashmir  Rajouri and Poonch districts. Similarly, Srinagar has changed, which is a challenge for us, he said.

A constituency like Budgam districts Beerwah, which he represented in the previous assembly, and was part of Srinagar, is now part of the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat. This is the first major election after 2019. This is an opportunity for voters to convey to us if we are on the right track or not. Its unique how New Delhi has tried to manoeuvre the candidates against the NC, said Abdullah.

He also accused the BJP of bringing what he called associate parties on one stage to dent the NC on the three seats of Kashmir. The PDPs decision to fight the election came later, but the entire effort of the BJP was to bring its associate parties to one stage. That is why they gave north Kashmir to the Peoples Conference and south and central seats to the Apni Party, former CM said.

A closed-door meeting of BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chug, Sajad Lone and Altaf Bukhari was held on Saturday last week, which triggered speculations of the BJP attempting to get these parties on board for the polls and supporting their candidates. Although the Altaf-led Apni Party had attempted to ally with Sajad and Ghulam Nabi Azad on Kashmir seats, the plans didnt mature owing to lack of time. The BJP is yet to announce its candidates for the three seats of Kashmir, even as the notification for the nominations for Anantnag-Rajouri has been issued.

The fact that the BJP in 2019 contested all these seats and now isnt contesting is also interesting. As we speak, the PM is in Jammu talking about development, normalcy, peace, family rule and how the NC didnt do anything. Assuming it is true, then the BJP should be the strongest to win. The PM says everyone appreciates what he did in August 2019. If thats the case, why is the BJP afraid of putting up candidates, asked Abdullah, referring to the PMs speech at a public rally in Udhampur. Please come and put up candidates and see how many people agree with what the Prime Minister saysThey will lose their deposits.
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The Jamui Lok Sabha constituency is an SC category seat among Bihars 40 parliamentary constituencies. It encompasses the entire Jamui district and parts of Munger and Sheikhpura districts. The Jamui constituency, currently with the LJP, consists of six Legislative Assembly segments: Tarapur in Munger district, Sheikhpura in Sheikhpura district, Sikandra (SC), Jamui, Jhajha, and Chakai in Jamui district. Voting for Lok Sabha election on the Jamui seat will take place in the first phase of polls on April 19. The counting of votes will take place on June 4.

Key Facts About the Jamui (SC) Seat

Jamui is an important seat in Bihar. The constituency has a total of 17.6 lakh voters, with most being rural voters.

Caste affiliations are the most dominant factor influencing elections in Bihar. This holds true for Jamui as well, where almost 89.5% of the voters come from rural areas. Yadavs are one of the major castes in the constituency, and are seen as troublemakers by the SC, ST and the OBCs. Hindus form around 89% of the vote here in this mostly rural seat. The prime minister is very popular in the seat and so are certain Hindutva issues such as the Ram Mandir inauguration which has touched the hearts of Hindus in the seat. Jamui Medical College is being constructed. Its foundation stone has been laid but work could not be completed last year. The people of Jamui are upset over this. The medical college is expected to generate many jobs. The construction work of Kendriya Vidyalaya in Jhajha, Jamui has been completed at a cost of about Rs 19 crore. It has been built on 8 acres of land which was provided by the Railways. It is the regions first Kendriya Vidyalaya and has been a welcome development considering the limited number of high-quality schools. Under the Amrit Bharat Station scheme by the central government, the railway station in Jamui and Simultala is set to undergo a huge transformation. Simulatala falls in the Jamui district. The station building is getting upgraded, a 12-meter-wide foot over bridge is being constructed, and lift & escalator being installed. The construction of two highways, NH-333 and NH-333A, has enhanced connectivity and facilitated economic activity in the area. Recently, a ring road has also been announced to improve intra-city connectivity in the Jamui district. According to on ground reports existing roads have been widened and upgraded, while the internal road network, particularly in rural areas, has also seen considerable improvement. Central government schemes under the National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency have played a crucial role in funding and supporting these infrastructure projects. However, despite the progress, Jamui faces a unique challenge viz. bridges. The district is crisscrossed by numerous rivers, and the existing bridges are often inadequate to handle the increasing traffic and transportation needs.

2019 Election Results and 2024 Candidates

In Jamui, it is a straight fight between the NDA and the INDI alliance led by RJD and Congress. Chirag Paswan (LJP) is the sitting MP from Jamui since 2014. He was preceded by Bhudeo Choudhary from JD(U). The LJP has fielded Arun Bharti, brother-in-law of Chirag Paswan, from this seat for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Chirag Paswan has relinquished his seat in Jamui and will be contesting from Hajipur.

The RJD has nominated Archana Ravidas, who belongs to the Dalit community, as its candidate for Jamui. BSPs candidate Sakaldev Das also belongs to the same community as RJDs Archana Ravidas.

Who Stands Where

Heres a look at the current political situation in Jamui and how the major parties in the fray are placed.

LJP

The Lok Janshakti Party has fielded Arun Bharti, brother-in-law of Chirag Paswan, from this seat. Chirag Paswan has relinquished his seat in Jamui and will be contesting from Hajipur. The LJP (R) is representing the NDA and is contesting in five seats namely Jamui, Hajipur, Vaishali, Samastipur and Khagaria.

Paswan has been holding this seat since 2014. In these ten years, the LJP has significantly improved its stronghold in Jamui, and the party has expanded in terms of funds, workers and public support. Paswan is perceived as the tallest leader in the party after his father Ram Vilas Paswans demise. However, there is a level of anti-incumbency that he is faced with, which is why he has chosen the safe rout of shifting seats this time.

While the opposition has accused him of abandoning Jamui, his narrative is that he is placing his most trusted family member, his brother-in-law, in his stead.

A big challenge is that Paswan is leaving behind an underwhelming legacy in the constituency. While the LJP has improved politically, the amount of work that was expected by the residents here (owing to Chirag Paswans national stature, closeness to BJP high command and youth) has not been reflected on work he has done on the ground for voters.

The LJPs fortunes have been bolstered by support from the JD(U) which also has a considerable vote bases in the seat.

Other smaller players like Upendra Kushwaha and Jeetan Ram Manjhi also bring certain backward caste groups with them in this seat.

All this is cemented by the Modi factor, should give Arun Bharti a good shot at winning. The prime minister is very popular in the seat and so are certain Hindutva issues such as the Ram Mandir inauguration which has touched the hearts of Hindus in the seat. Hindus form around 89% of the vote here in this mostly rural seat. Even members of the Yadav community have been accepting of Modi and will vote for BJP in his name.

Paswan has been struggling for relevance since he was ousted from the parent party by his uncle, Pashupati Paras, shortly before the Bihar Assembly Elections in 2021.

The division between Paswan and Paras has created a new dynamic, with both factions vying for the support of the Paswan community. Paras, although publicly has promised to support NDA, is extremely upset with Chirag being given the Hajipur seat which he had represented.

Chirag is treading cautiously in selecting candidates and banking more on close family members to ensure there is no repeat of a 2021 scenario.

RJD

RJD has nominated Archana Ravidas, who belongs to the Dalit community, as its candidate for Jamui.

There is a considerable population of Dalits in general and Ravidas community in particular in Jamui. Her candidacy could potentially consolidate votes which have traditionally lean towards the RJD-led alliance.

However, her marriage to a Yadav man has caused friction within her own caste.

Her attacks on Chirag Paswan have focused on how he has abandoned Jamui, and how the constituency has not benefited from electing him for 10 years.

BSP

BSP is contesting elections on 4 seats in Bihar, with one of them is Jamui. Interestingly BSPs candidate Sakaldev Das also belongs to the same community as RJDs Archana Ravidas.

The Ravidas vote bank is already split due to Archanas husband being a Yadav. Sakaldev could further muddy the waters and draw away votes from Archana. This will inevitably give the NDA a huge advantage.

Key Factors and Election Issues

From anti-incumbency to farmer issues, Jamui is witnessing multiple issues as it goes to polls. Heres a look at the main issues in the Jamui constituency.

Anti-Incumbency

There is an anti-incumbency against the LJP, and especially Chirag Paswan, in the constituency. On the ground reports say this is due to a distinct lack of infrastructural development, and a dearth of universities and colleges. The long-promised railway line between Jhajha and Chakai has also failed to take shape. However, LJP(R) remains a politically strong force.

Hindutva

According to on ground reports, the issue of Hindutva and the role of Ram Mandir in uniting Hindus will play a huge role in the upcoming elections. Factors like CAA, Article 370 etc. are expected to yield results in favour of the NDA.

Farmer Issues

There are issues with maintenance of dams, unfinished dam construction, as well as major irrigation problems from Chakai to Sikandra which have miffed farmers. Many other promised projects have failed to take off. The Kundghat project, a proposed dam and irrigation scheme, has been long delayed. Despite promises and foundation stones being laid, the project has seen little to no progress. Similarly, the Chaki project, another irrigation scheme, has not even begun despite announcements and initial plans. The lack of functional irrigation projects has a cascading effect on farmers in Jamui. Water scarcity makes it difficult to cultivate crops, leading to reduced yields and financial losses. This also contributes to the larger problem of farmer distress and emigration in the region. However, there is no effect regarding the farmers protest.

Unemployment & Emigration

As is the case with most of Bihar, unemployment, especially among the youth, remains a major issue. The youth of Jamui are disgruntled over the lack of local jobs and are being forced to migrate in search of livelihood. This has also impacted Jamuis demography, like all other districts in the state. The youth population is mostly out of the state, while those who stay back are forced to live on negligible wages.

Eradication of Naxalism

According to reports, the eradication of Naxalism from Jamui in the last 10 years under the central and state governments is a major achievement. People believe that under Chirag Paswans (and his late fathers) efforts, Jamui has been able to free itself from the clutches of naxalism which had plagued the region for a long time. Bihar police, in co-ordination with National Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and other concerned wings of the government, have intensified crackdown on cultivation of illegal poppy, a major source of income for the Naxals. Maoists are now confined to the hilly areas in Jamui as SSB and CRPF have made permanent camps here. This is also seen as the Centers greatest achievement in the area.

NOTA

The None of the Above (NOTA) option has emerged as a notable factor in previous elections, signaling voter discontent. In both 2019 and 2014, NOTA garnered significant votes, highlighting the electorates demand for better representation. The constituencys representation in the assembly has also further diversified with many independents and parties like Janata Dal United (JDU), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and Hindustani Awami Morcha (HAM) all winning assembly seats.

Additional Train Stoppages

Even with just 2 railway platforms, the Jamui station now boasts stoppages of express and superfast trains which did not earlier stop here. This has brought convenience to the people in the region and is seen as a major positive step to improve Jamuis connectivity. However, people have demanded more trains. Connectivity with the rest of south Bihar remains an issue. The number of trains connecting Delhi to Jamui has also not increased.
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah will contest elections from the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency, the National Conference announced here on Friday.

Making the announcement, party president Farooq Abdullah also told reporters here that influential Shia leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi will contest from central Kashmirs Srinagar constituency, which has been an NC bastion.

After the abrogation of Article 370, and the downgrading and division of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories, Omar Abdullah, the NC vice president, had announced he would not contest assembly elections unless J-Ks statehood was restored.

Spread over 18 assembly segments, the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat would be one of the keenly watched contests as electoral dynamics in the constituency have changed after delimitation.

The constituency, which encompasses four districts of Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and parts of Budgam, is pegged for a key contest with a largely direct fight between the NC and Peoples Conference chief Sajad Gani Lone, the separatist-turned-mainstream politician.

The junior Abdullah would be banking heavily on Shia support as the constituency has many Shia-dominated areas that include Budgam, Beerwah, Pattan, Sonawari and Bandipora, among other pockets.

Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency was redrawn in the delimitation exercise, undertaken after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, to include two assembly seats of Budgam district  Budgam and Beerwah  both Shia dominated, and one each new assembly segment in Baramulla and Kupwara.

Before delimitation, the constituency has been a forte of the NC as the party has wrested the seat ten times since 1957.

The Congress has won four times and the PDP once. In the last general elections in 2019, NC candidate Mohammad Akbar Lone secured 133,426, defeating his nearest rival Raja Aijaz Ali of the Peoples Conference who polled 1,03,193 votes.

Independent candidate, Sheikh Abdul Rashid polled 1,02,168 votes to grab the third spot, while the PDP candidate Abdul Qayoom Wani with 53,530 votes stood at number four.

Rashid, who contested the last elections but is under NIA custody on terror-funding charges, influences the Langate assembly segment of the constituency which he represented in the erstwhile J-K legislature twice.

His party, Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), has announced it will field Rashid, who is currently in detention in New Delhis Tihar Jail, from the seat for the Lok Sabha polls.

The PDP, which stood at a distant fourth place in the last elections, has fielded former Rajya Sabha MP Fayaz Mir. This will be the first time since the 2009 general elections that Omar Abdullah will contest the Lok Sabha polls.

He was first elected to Lok Sabha in 1998, at the age of 28, when he won the elections from Srinagar, becoming the youngest member.

In 1999, he was re-elected to the 13th Lok Sabha, and on October 13, 1999, took oath as Union Minister of State, Commerce and Industry. On 22 July 2001, he was made Union Minister of State for External Affairs.

However, Omar Abdullah resigned from the post on December 23, 2002, to concentrate on party work.

In the run-up to the 2002 legislative assembly elections in J-K, the junior Abdullah was chosen to lead the NC, while Farooq Abdullah shifted base to the Centre. However, Omar Abdullah lost assembly polls from the Ganderbal constituency.

While Farooq Abdullah was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2002 from J-K, and then re-elected in 2009, Omar Abdullah contested and won the Lok Sabha polls from the Srinagar constituency in 2004. During the vote of confidence vote in the Lok Sabha on July 22, 2008, Omar Abdullah gave a fiery speech in Parliament which was praised by many.

Omar Abdullah then went on to become Jammu and Kashmirs chief minister when his party allied with the Congress in January 2009 after the assembly elections. In 2009, his father resigned from the Rajya Sabha and won a seat in the Lok Sabha from Srinagar.

When the senior Abdullah contested the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat again in the 2014 elections, he was defeated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Tariq Hameed Karra.

However, Karra resigned from Lok Sabha in 2017 leading to a by-election for the Srinagar parliamentary seat which Farooq Abdullah won defeating the PDP candidate Nazir Ahmed Khan. The NC president won the Lok Sabha polls again in 2019.

Omar Abdullah won the assembly elections in 2008 from Ganderbal constituency. He had contested and won the 2014 assembly elections from Budgams Beerwah segment which is now a part of the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency.

After the delimitation exercise in J-K in 2022, the re-drawn Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency is now spread over the districts of Srinagar, Ganderbal, Budgam, and parts of Pulwama and Shopian comprising 19 assembly segments.

Considered the partys stronghold, the Srinagar seat has been wrested by the NC 12 out of 15 times it went to polls/by-polls since 1967.

The Congress, the PDP and an independent have won from the constituency once each. The party has already fielded senior Gujjar leader Mian Altaf from the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat.

The party, which is a part of the oppositions INDIA-bloc, is contesting on three seats in Kashmir valley, while it has left two seats in Jammu and one seat in Ladakh to its ally Congress. Srinagar goes to polls on May 13 while voting in Baramulla will be held on May 20.
The Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar Lok Sabha constituency is one of the five Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttarakhand. It is held by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). There are 14 assembly segments in this seat  Lalkuwa, Bhimtal, Nainital, Haldwani and Kaladhungi in Nainital district and Jaspur, Kashipur, Bajpur, Gadarpur, Rudrapur, Kichha, Sitarganj, Nanak Matta and Khatim in Udham Singh Nagar district. Eight of the 14 are held by the BJP, while six are with the Congress. The constituency will vote in phase one on April 19.

Current MP: Ajay Bhatt (BJP), preceded by Bhagat Singh Koshyari of BJP.

Candidates: Ajay Bhatt (BJP) and Prakash Joshi (Congress)

VOTING FACTORS

BJP vs Congress: Its a straight contest between the BJP and Congress, with the former having an upper hand owing to the Modi factor. This two-way rivalry has emerged at the cost of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), which has consistently registered a decline in its fortunes in this seat. The BSPs vote share fell from 19% in 2009 to 2.3% in 2019. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is a minor player with a 5% vote share in 2022 in the assembly elections, mainly concentrated around Sikh voters.

One-sided election for BJP? The public sentiment is in favour of the BJP and PM Modi. The election is being seen as matter of voting for or against PM Modi. Sitting MP Ajay Bhatt is campaigning entirely on PM Modis name. Previous election trends show that the BJP performs relatively better with a very high vote share in the Lok Sabha elections than in the Assembly elections. In the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had a vote share of 58% and 62%, respectively, whereas in the assembly election of 2017 and 2022, the BJP secured 47% and 46.3% vote share, respectively. In 2022, the Congress raised its vote share to 41.5% from 34% in 2017 and 34.8% in 2019. This indicates that the Congress is regrowing its strength to a degree. Reports indicate that there is degree of anti-incumbency against the BJP. However, this largely has a bearing on the assembly elections, and not the general elections.

Ajay Bhatt factor: Even as a fairly new candidate in the 2019 elections, Bhatt registered a thumping victory against former CM and veteran Congress leader Harish Rawat, with a massive margin of 3.39 lakh votes and a vote share of 61.35%. In the second Modi cabinet, Bhatt was appointed as the Minister of State for Defence. Since then, he has emerged as a tall leader in the area, and is seen as development-oriented. There is no undercurrent of anti-incumbency. Bhatt is known for his active involvement in developmental initiatives in the constituency. Ongoing construction projects for various railway stations are underway, facilitated by his efforts. Approval has been granted for the Dhampur-Kashipur railway line, and road-widening initiatives have been implemented. He played a pivotal role in securing central approval for the long-awaited Jamrani Dam project. Additionally, he also advocated establishment of an AIIMS satellite center in Kichha. The Uttarakhand government has also acquired several acres from the defunct HMT factory in Ranibagh due to his interventions.

Hindu votes: At 72%, Hindu voters are largely expected to favour the BJP. The governments work towards religious tourism, development, renovation and beautification along religious sites has helped build a favourable image for the BJP. Under schemes like the Manaskhand Mandir Mala Mission, the state BJP government has identified 48 major temples for renovation and infrastructure development and work on 16 has already begun. The implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has also been received favourably by the Hindu community.

Muslim votes: The demolition of illegally constructed mosques has rubbed most Muslim voters the wrong way, and communal violence has also been seen in this seat owing to this issue. A considerable degree of communal polarisation is expected owing to the recent Haldwani riots and the issue of illegal migration of non-native Muslims into the state. A small number of Muslims, especially women voters and senior citizens, may vote for the BJP on issues such as triple talaq and Ayushmaan Bharat schemes.

Sikh votes: As the LS seat falls partly in the Terai region of Uttarkhand, there is a considerable Sikh population. Owing to this concentration of Sikhs, Udhamsingh Nagar is also called mini Punjab. During the farmers protests, the sentiment towards the BJP among the Sikh populace had soured and it led to some losses in the 2022 elections. Sikh-concentrated assembly seats like Nanak Matta, Khatima and Kichha saw the emergence of the Congress. However, the BJP has since mended its stature in the community by constantly reaching out, honouring Sikh Gurus and carrying out development activities and improving facilities in sites of religious significance such as the Reetha Sahib Gurudwara and the construction of the ropeway to Hemkunt Sahib which is still in the works. There has been a visible improvement in road infrastructure, water and electricity availability around these religious shrines which has been noticed by the electorate and may play a role in improving the BJPs prospects.

Congress: The Congress is on the backfoot in Uttarakhand. This holds true for the Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar seat as well. With no national counter to PM Modi, the party is relying on state and local leadership to bring in the votes. Veteran Congress leaders in the state such as former CM Rawat are star campaigners. However, the partys decision to field fresh candidates in all seats in Uttarkhand may play out in BJPs favour. Prakash Joshi is a relatively new face and has not had much time to consolidate support since his candidature was announced on March 24. Among all five parliamentary seats in Uttarakhand, the Congress stands better chance to perform well in Nainital and Haridwar seats. This is because of a relatively higher percentage of Muslim and Dalit voters. However, the delay in announcing a candidate and the eventual announcement of a newcomer could prove costly. The BSP has fielded Akhtar Ali Mahagir in the constituency, and this is another worry as he could eat into the Dalit and Muslim voter base. To make matters worse, the announcement of Joshi as candidate has upset local leaders. Uttarakhand Congress Spokesperson Deepak Balutia quit, accusing the High Command of marginalising its grassroots workers. Joshis selection had come at the end of a prolonged struggle between various factions.

Harish Rawat factor: Despite several electoral losses for his family in the last decade, Rawats influence remains strong. His clout was evident as he got his son Virender nominated for the Haridwar seat.

VOTER DEMOGRAPHICS

Total number of voters (2022): 19.7 lakh

Urban: 36.89%

Rural: 63.11%

VOTERS BY CASTE (APPROXIMATE)

SC: 16.4%

ST: 5.11%

VOTERS BY RELIGION (2011 CENSUS)

Muslim: 19.04%

Hindu: 72%

Sikh: 7%

CONSTITUENCY ISSUES

Haldwani riots: The communal violence on February 8, 2024, in Banbhoolpura in Haldwani, following the court-ordered demolition of a madrassa and mosque deemed illegal by the government, has frayed nerves. Banbhoolpura, where Muslims form most of the population, saw rioters throwing stones at law enforcement officers, setting vehicles on fire and using petrol bombs. Five were killed in the violence while dozens were arrested by the administration.

Illegal migration and encroachment: For more than a decade, the illegal influx of non-native Muslims into Uttarakhand has remained a significant concern. It is estimated that over 900,000 illegal immigrants reside in Uttarakhand. The state government has highlighted how these migrants are primarily from Bangladesh and Rohingyas from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. They are often accused of occupying government-owned land, constructing illegal mosques and setting up madrasas without permission. This pattern of illegal immigration has previously led to tensions within the state as natives complain of job loss and illegal land encroachment. In December 2022, protests erupted in Uttarakhand after the Supreme Court of India intervened to halt the removal of over 4,000 illegal structures, which housed more than 5,000 illegal immigrants, from railway land in Haldwani station. Crackdown on illegal structures, including mosques and madrassas, have witnessed a pushback from the Muslim community and a degree of resentment towards the administration, which is accused of deliberately targeting the minorities.

Uniform Civil Code: In February, Uttarakhand became the first state to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) which presents common law for marriage, divorce, inheritance of property, which were earlier governed by personal laws of every religion. This acts as a precursor to a similar law at the national level and states like Gujarat and Assam are especially inclined to follow Uttarakhands lead. This issue primarily finds strong support among BJP voters.

National issues: This election is set to be fought on national issues such as Indias rising global stature, foreign policy with regards to Pakistan and China, patriotism and Article 370 removal. Hindutva will also feature prominently. The Ram Mandir inauguration, reclamation of Kashi Vishwanath Mandir and other issues of religious significance will also play a role here.

Infrastructure development: This seat has seen a considerable degree of development, including widening of roads and improved facilities especially in religious sites such as the Reetha Sahib and Hemkunt Sahib in Nanak Matta, and Hindu temples across all seats. However, issues such as road congestion remain. In Haldwani, a ring-road was promised to help ease the jams. This is yet to materialise. Road widening is also required on a larger scale, but challenges remain. Residents of Haldwani have also expressed dissatisfaction with delays in several development projects and initiatives, including the establishment of an ISBT bus stand, relocation of the garbage dumping site and the construction of a modern slaughterhouse.

Parking woes: In the hilly regions of the seat, which primarily lie in the small hill station of Nainital, there is a shortage of parking spaces and acute road congestion, which residents struggle with on a daily basis. Random and illegal parking choke the town roads. During festive seasons and summer, when more tourists flow in, the problem is exacerbated with traffic jams lasting hours making navigation difficult for four-wheelers. The Uttarakhand High Court has warned of a Joshimath-like scenario in Nainital and urged immediate action to alleviate traffic congestion during peak tourist season. Joshimath has been facing a land subsidence crisis, leading to cracks in infrastructure including houses and roads.

Water issues: This pristine constituency is facing a water crisis caused by factors such as overcrowding and an increased construction rate. Water level of Nainital Lake has gone down on 10 occasions since 2000, attributed to alterations made to the Sukhatal Lake bed. The water crisis in Nainital, stems from various factors, including rapid urbanisation, population growth, deforestation and unsustainable water management practices. Over the years, the increasing demand for water due to tourism, residential expansion, and commercial activities has put immense pressure on the limited water resources available in Nainital. Additionally, improper sewage disposal and encroachment on water bodies have further exacerbated the situation.

Unemployment: There is an acute lack of local employment avenues in the Nainital Udhamsingh Nagar seat. Residents complain of having to migrate away from their homes, while they lose business and employment opportunities to illegal migration. Small jobs in hotel and transport industries are among the very few options for the youth. Farming on small hilly tracts is not enough as it does not provide feasible income.

Human-wildlife conflict: Monkeys and wild boars often attack farmland causing significant financial damage to small farmers. People also feel unsafe in many heavily forested areas as individuals fall victim to attacks by leopards, elephants, tigers, wild boars and bears.

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

The constituency has seen several infrastructure projects:
Vellore is one of the 39 Lok Sabha constituencies in Tamil Nadu, and is located 135 km away from state capital, Chennai. It was in news in the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections when voting was cancelled due to alleged seizure of unaccounted cash from a DMK candidate. The constituency will vote in the first phase of 2024 Lok Sabha Election on April 19, and results will be declared on June 4. The assembly segments that fall under this constituency are Vellore, Anaikattu, Kilvaithinankuppam (KV Kuppam), Gudiyattam, Vaniyambadi, and Ambur.

Voting Factors

The Vellore Lok Sabha constituency presents a unique and unpredictable political landscape, often defying conventional electoral analysis despite a historical inclination towards the DMK.

Its diverse voter base includes a significant Muslim population, concentrated mainly in Ambur and Vaniyambadi, who are known to vote strategically and often play a decisive role in election outcomes.

The DMK secured victories in Vellore during the 1971, 2004, 2009, and 2019 elections, demonstrating its strong presence in the constituency. The AIADMK managed to secure the seat in 2014, while the PMK (Pattali Makkal Katchi) has also shown its influence with wins in 1998 and 1999, adding to the complexity of the political scenario.

There are total 14,26,991 voters, of which, urban voters are 6,97,799 (48.9%) and rural voters are 7,29,192 (51.1%). Most of the people are Hindu, about 80%, Muslims are 14.28% and Christians are 4.79%. Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe account for 3,29,635 (23.1%) and 21,405 (1.5%) of the population.

Vanniyar, Mudaliyar and Dalits are the dominant castes in the region. Vanniyars are mostly found in the Sholingur, Katpadi, Ranipet, Arcot, Anaicut and Jolarpet areas. DMK leaders such as Minister KC Veeramani and DMK general secretary Durai Murugan are some notable leaders.

The Mudaliyars are found in Sholingur, Arcot, Vellore and Gudiyatham areas, and in the recent assembly elections, PMK leaders have won a few seats such as the Arcot assembly which will be a considerable vote bank for its ally NJP.

Dalits are scattered across the constituency with major populations in Arakkonam, KV Kuppam and Gudiyatham. According to ground reports, Dalit votes have swayed between the DMK and AIADMK depending on the welfare schemes and other promises.

Key Issues

Palar Check Dam: Farmers in the region have been demanding a check dam across the Palar river for decades. Thousands of farmers in the region depend on agriculture along the upper Palar river basin for their livelihood. The river is the lifeline of northern districts of Tamil Nadu. Farmers have been demanding that check dams be constructed along the river at every 5 km mark.

Farmers in the region have been demanding a check dam across the Palar river for decades. Thousands of farmers in the region depend on agriculture along the upper Palar river basin for their livelihood. The river is the lifeline of northern districts of Tamil Nadu. Farmers have been demanding that check dams be constructed along the river at every 5 km mark. Cash Seizures: The 2019 election in Vellore were cancelled and rescheduled following cash seizures and allegations of attempts to influence voters by bribing them. Police had filed an FIR against DMK candidate Kathir Anand and two others in connection with the income tax raids and cash seizure. While Rs 19 lakh was allegedly found during the raid on premises belonging to Anands father Durai Murugan, Rs 10.50 lakh was seized as excess after allowing the cash declared in the election affidavit of Anand. Despite the delay, the election witnessed a significant voter turnout of 71.51%.

The 2019 election in Vellore were cancelled and rescheduled following cash seizures and allegations of attempts to influence voters by bribing them. Police had filed an FIR against DMK candidate Kathir Anand and two others in connection with the income tax raids and cash seizure. While Rs 19 lakh was allegedly found during the raid on premises belonging to Anands father Durai Murugan, Rs 10.50 lakh was seized as excess after allowing the cash declared in the election affidavit of Anand. Despite the delay, the election witnessed a significant voter turnout of 71.51%. Sexist Statements: DMK candidate Kathir Anands alleged sexist remarks on the women during a campaigning event got him into trouble. He allegedly said the faces of women present were shining, and asked if they had bought fairness cream using the governments monthly assistance of Rs 1,000. Sharing the video on social media, the Tamil Nadu BJP has accused the sitting MP of showing sexism towards the women of his constituency.

DMK candidate Kathir Anands alleged sexist remarks on the women during a campaigning event got him into trouble. He allegedly said the faces of women present were shining, and asked if they had bought fairness cream using the governments monthly assistance of Rs 1,000. Sharing the video on social media, the Tamil Nadu BJP has accused the sitting MP of showing sexism towards the women of his constituency. Water supply Issues: People in the Vellore district are dependent on water supply from the local municipal corporation. The region is arid, and according to reports, water supply comes once in 10 days. This has become a long-standing issue in Vellore and people have expressed their disappointment publicly towards the leaders though there has been no respite.

People in the Vellore district are dependent on water supply from the local municipal corporation. The region is arid, and according to reports, water supply comes once in 10 days. This has become a long-standing issue in Vellore and people have expressed their disappointment publicly towards the leaders though there has been no respite. Water Pollution: The effluent of the leather industries and other small-scale industries are drained into the Palar River and the quality of the drinking water is affected. Tannery waste has been dumped in the Palar River for nearly a decade which has caused diseases among the locals. In 1995, a chromium factory in Vellore shut shop leaving behind a legacy of contaminated soil and water. Two decades later, agriculture remains difficult and people continue to flock to hospitals with health issues.

The effluent of the leather industries and other small-scale industries are drained into the Palar River and the quality of the drinking water is affected. Tannery waste has been dumped in the Palar River for nearly a decade which has caused diseases among the locals. In 1995, a chromium factory in Vellore shut shop leaving behind a legacy of contaminated soil and water. Two decades later, agriculture remains difficult and people continue to flock to hospitals with health issues. Traffic Congestion: Heavy traffic on major routes within the Corporation such as Green Circle, Old bus terminus, Chittoor bus stand in Katpadi and Thorapadi near the Circuit House is a major concern for many. The slow progress of the existing infrastructure and civic works by the Corporation such as Smart City Project works and underground drainage works have damaged most of the stretches in the city. Encroachments and illegal parking also occupy pedestrians space, causing traffic.

Heavy traffic on major routes within the Corporation such as Green Circle, Old bus terminus, Chittoor bus stand in Katpadi and Thorapadi near the Circuit House is a major concern for many. The slow progress of the existing infrastructure and civic works by the Corporation such as Smart City Project works and underground drainage works have damaged most of the stretches in the city. Encroachments and illegal parking also occupy pedestrians space, causing traffic. Religious Conversion: Reports suggest that government and Christian-run private schools are conducting classes on the Bible while making derogatory remarks about Hinduism, its customs, traditions, and spiritual beliefs. It is worth noting that in the past, the Tamil Nadu government has not been responsive to communications from statutory bodies like the NCPCR and has not taken any action as suggested by them.

Key Candidates and Parties

DMK, AIADMK and BJP-NJP are key parties to watch out for Vellore constituency. Independent candidate actor Mansoor Ali Khan is campaigning from Muslim-dominated pockets in Vellore to gain support. AIADMK is pinning hopes on its newbie candidate Dr S Pasupathy after it formally exited the NDA last year.

DMK: The party had won the seat in 2019 elections, securing a narrow victory against Puthiya Neethi Katchi, then an ally of the AIADMK. In 2024, it will be on the ballot again as Vellore is one of the 21 seats retained by DMK after allotting the rest to allies. In power in five of the six Assembly constituencies in Vellore, the DMK is hoping that its strong grassroot mobilisation will help it consolidate enough support among minority voters despite the discontent against Kathir Anand.

The party had won the seat in 2019 elections, securing a narrow victory against Puthiya Neethi Katchi, then an ally of the AIADMK. In 2024, it will be on the ballot again as Vellore is one of the 21 seats retained by DMK after allotting the rest to allies. In power in five of the six Assembly constituencies in Vellore, the DMK is hoping that its strong grassroot mobilisation will help it consolidate enough support among minority voters despite the discontent against Kathir Anand. Kathir Anand: Kathir Anand had clutched the seat by a margin of just 8,141 votes last time. While the DMK had managed to secure a lead of 4,625 votes after the 10th round, it surged ahead subsequently and increased the margin to 7,895 votes. However, despite his electoral success, Anand has faced criticism for his alleged lack of engagement with the constituency after the election.

Kathir Anand had clutched the seat by a margin of just 8,141 votes last time. While the DMK had managed to secure a lead of 4,625 votes after the 10th round, it surged ahead subsequently and increased the margin to 7,895 votes. However, despite his electoral success, Anand has faced criticism for his alleged lack of engagement with the constituency after the election. Local leaders and party cadre have expressed dissatisfaction with his performance and opposed his re-nomination, arguing for a candidate more attuned to the needs and concerns of the electorate.

The decision to re-nominate Anand, despite internal opposition and potential anti-incumbency sentiment, has raised questions about the influence of senior party figures and the DMKs approach to candidate selection.

The situation is further complicated by the significant Muslim population in Vellore, whose traditional allegiance to the DMK might be tested due to the denial of a ticket to a Muslim candidate.

Reports suggest that DMK leadership, including Chief Minister MK Stalin, had to intervene and urge local leaders and party workers to support Anands candidacy, highlighting the internal challenges and complexities surrounding his re-nomination.

AIADMK: The party is contesting the general elections in alliance with the DMDK, Puthiya Tamizhagam and the SDPI. The party had officially exited the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance last year amid a row over comments by BJPs Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai.

The party is contesting the general elections in alliance with the DMDK, Puthiya Tamizhagam and the SDPI. The party had officially exited the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance last year amid a row over comments by BJPs Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai. The AIADMK has nominated Dr S Pasupathy to the Vellore seat. With the Muslim voters seemingly upset with the DMK this time and unlikely to side with the BJP, there is a possibility that the AIADMK may turn out to be the beneficiary. Another section of political experts, however, say with the AIADMK and BJP parting ways, the two may end up cutting the majority community votes, benefitting the DMK.

According to on ground reports AIADMKs S Pasupathy is contesting the elections for the first time, is highly inexperienced and unknown to the people of Vellore. This will also severely impact the AIADMKs chances of winning in the constituency.

BJP/NJP: In Vellore, the BJP has nominated its alliance partner, the Puthiya Neethi Katchi (NJP), and is placing its bets on NJP founder AC Shanmugam as the NDA candidate.

In Vellore, the BJP has nominated its alliance partner, the Puthiya Neethi Katchi (NJP), and is placing its bets on NJP founder AC Shanmugam as the NDA candidate. This decision reflects the BJPs broader efforts to strengthen its presence in Tamil Nadu by forging alliances with regional parties like the NJP, AMMK, and PMK. The BJP is actively working to consolidate non-Muslim votes in favour of Shanmugam, leveraging his local roots and political experience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modis April 10 high-profile event in Vellore was aimed to galvanise support for the NDA candidate and stress BJPs commitment to making inroads in Tamil Nadu.

In 2019, AC Shanmugam had polled 4,77,199 votes. And as per on ground reports, isnt going to fare much better and will probably again come in third behind DMK and AIADMK, though not necessarily in that order.

Mansoor Ali Khan: The actor is contesting as an independent candidate. Known for his portrayal of villainous characters in Tamil movies and recent controversial remarks against actress Trisha, Khan is actively campaigning in Muslim-dominated areas of Vellore, seeking to garner support from this significant voter segment.

The actor is contesting as an independent candidate. Known for his portrayal of villainous characters in Tamil movies and recent controversial remarks against actress Trisha, Khan is actively campaigning in Muslim-dominated areas of Vellore, seeking to garner support from this significant voter segment. Mansoor Ali Khans foray into politics is not entirely new. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he contested from the Dindigul constituency as a candidate for Naam Tamilar Katchi. Khan could further undercut DMKs vote which could hand a slight advantage to the AIADMK and the NJP.

Modi Factor: According to ground reports, the Modi Factor will play a huge role in attracting young and educated voters towards the BJP ally NJP. Modis messaging and the governments track record seem to have some traction with at least a segment of the youth in the area.

Development Projects
The two men arrested from West Bengals Digha in connection with Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe blast are linked to to the 2022 Mangaluru pressure cooker blast, 2020 pro-terror graffiti case and Al Hind case, according to top intelligence sources.

The NIA, central intelligence agencies and state police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka and Kerala coordinated to arrest Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taahaa on Friday.

ALSO READ | Cap, Lodges & 42 Days: How Bengaluru Cafe Blast Accused Were Tracked | Exclusive from Intel Sources

Shazib had placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe in Brookefield on March 1, which had a timer set for an hour, while Taahaa was the mastermind behind the planning and execution of the blast, officials said. Ten people were injured in the blast at the popular eatery in the area. The cafe reopened on March 15 with heightened security measures. The NIA tracked the pattern of Shazib and Taahaa for 42 days to achieve the breakthrough, according to sources. The NIA Special Court, Kolkata, where the two accused were produced after arrest, has granted three days transit remand to the agency.

#WATCH | Bengalurus The Rameswaram Cafe blast case | West Bengal: The two prime suspects  Adbul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazeb  brought to the NIA Court in Kolkata. pic.twitter.com/taVbFaeziA ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

So far, detailed investigation has not been not done. But these are major arrests and we are hopeful that one major module has been busted," sources said.

THE LINK TO OTHER CASES

Taha was involved with the Bengaluru Module of ISIS  Al Hind, said sources.

The men are residents of Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district of Karnataka and are linked to the 2022 Mangaluru pressure cooker blast. They are close friends of Mohammad Shariq, who was involved in the Mangaluru blast. They may have been planning to make one big IED and carry out a major blast. Their handler is foreign-based, who is hiding and funding them," sources said.

In November 2022, a crude bomb assembled in a pressure cooker accidentally went off when Shariq was transporting it in an autorickshaw. The blast took place just months before the assembly elections. Shariq, who also hailed from Teerthahalli, wanted to cause maximum impact with the use of a moving vehicle, investigators said.

Shariq was also directly involved in a pro-terror graffiti case in Mangaluru in November 2020, to which the two accused are also linked, said sources.

THE UMBRELLA GROUP

News18 had earlier reported how major terror organisations have come under one umbrella group. According to intel sources, agencies have almost destroyed major networks of Islamic State (ISIS or IS).

We have detained and arrested a large number of youth who were radicalised and planned to do something major. Old handlers and operatives are also rearrested. With such harsh disruption, old organisations such as Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and Indian Mujahideen (IM) had to come under one umbrella to fight back."

ALSO READ | ISIS, SIMI, IM Under One Umbrella of Terror? Exclusive on Pune Case from Agencies Sources

Investigative agencies busted several modules across the country through which the umbrella of the three terror groups was operating to plan major attacks. The Pune ISIS case brought the regrouping of the three outfits to light.
A Delhi court on Friday remanded BRS MLC K Kavitha to the custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) till April 15 in the alleged liquor policy scam. The CBI had sought custody of the BRS leader for 5 days.

K Kavitha, the daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, was arrested by the CBI on Thursday from judicial custody in Tihar jail, where she has been lodged after her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

According to the CBI, Kavitha is one of the key conspirators in the liquor policy case and is concealing facts of the case exclusively known to her.

Kavitha examined earlier in this case but in light of evidence unearthed in the investigationRole of statements revealed that she is one of the key conspirators in the excise policy. She didnt join investigation citing unjustified ground and hence she could not be examinedDuring her interrogation, she didnt give satisfactory replies regarding her roleShe needs to be confronted with evidence to unearth the larger conspiracy concerning the liquor policy, the CBI counsel told the court, a Live Law report said.

South Liquor Baron Dropped K Kavithas Name: CBI

According to an India Today report, the CBI, while seeking the custody of BRS MLC K Kavitha, told the court that her role in the conspiracy to collect a Rs 100 crore kickback from a liquor baron was revealed during the probe.

The probe agency alleged that a businessman from the south met Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at his office the AAP national convenor told him that K Kavitha would contact him.

One liquor businessman from the south met Arvind Kejriwal at the Chief Ministers office chamber in Delhi on March 16, 2022. He sought the Chief Ministers support. Arvind Kejriwal assured him and said K Kavitha would contact him in this regard. Kejriwal asked for funds in exchange, the agency said.

Kavitha, 46, was arrested by the ED from her Banjara Hills residence in Hyderabad on March 15 in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy scam.
A male student of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati died by suicide on Wednesday, the college administration informed. The police have begun the investigation surrounding the unfortunate death.

The deceased Sourav Kumar, a first-year B-tech student of the computer science department allegedly died by hanging himself in his hostel room. A note was also recovered from his room and has been sent for forensic analysis, police said.

Soon after the incident was reported, the body was sent to Gauhati Medical College Hospital for postmortem.

The family of the deceased student, who hails from Bihar, has demanded a probe into his death alleging negligence by the institute. The police said they suspect the student killed himself owing to stress.

Regarding circumstances around the death, the victims body was recovered by the police from his hostel room after the institutes administration informed them about the incident.

The deceased shared the room with another student, who was in a class when the boy hanged himself.

When his roommate was in the class during the day, the boy hanged himself in the room. The security guards and his roommate later learned about the incident, the police official added.

While the exact cause, which led to the boys extreme step is yet unknown, sources suggest academic pressure and some personal reasons might have played a role.

Meanwhile, the institute has issued a statement on the incident and paid condolences to the deceaseds family.

It is with deep regret that IIT Guwahati shares the unfortunate news of the death of a male student on campus on 10th April 2024. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, and we are providing them with the necessary support during this difficult time. The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. Our thoughts are with the grieving family, IIT Guwahati stated.

Keeping the privacy of the student and the sensitivity of this incident in consideration, the media is requested to maintain discretion while reporting on this incident, it added.
In a horrific incident reported from Uttar Pradeshs Ghaziabad, a mother allegedly subjected her 10-year-old daughter to assault and torture in order to cover up the repeated sexual abuse the girl suffered at the hands of her mothers male friend.

According to an NDTV report, the girls mother also had intentions of forcing her minor daughter into prostitution. The man allegedly sexually abused the victims 13-year-old brother as well.

In an attempt to escape the brutal ongoing abuse, the young girl fled her home on January 20. She was subsequently found wandering the streets of Delhi when she was taken into custody by the Delhi Police. She was later put into the care of the Child Welfare Committee.

The medical examination of the minor victim revealed that she was repeatedly raped and sexually abused.

In her statement to the police, the victim informed that her father died four years ago after which both she and her brother were living with their grandparents.

Last year, both the kids were taken in by their mother, who resides in Ghaziabad. There, she was repeatedly sexually assaulted by her mothers friend, who had also sexually abused her brother. Her brother earlier left home because of the abuse.

For the girl, the last straw was when she found out about her mothers involvement in prostitution following her fathers death and informed that she intended to push her daughter into the same trade.

Meanwhile, the girls mother and her male friend have been arrested by the Delhi police. The police further informed that the woman did not file a missing complaint despite her children being missing since January.
The Haryana Government has formed a four-member team to probe the school bus accident in Mahendragarh on Thursday, in which six children were killed and 20 others were wounded. The incident occurred near Unhani village in Kanina around 8.30 am, when the bus was carrying around 40 children  from primary to secondary classes  to the G L Public School, collided with a tree and overturned. Police have registered an FIR in connection with the case.

The deceased children have been identified as Satyam, Yuvraj, Vansh, Ricky, Anshu and Yakush.

Meanwhile, the Haryana government has issued a show cause notice to the private school to explain why it was open on Thursday despite it being a holiday on account of Eid. The Education Department of Haryana has also sent a directive to all private schools seeking an affidavit to prove that their vehicles are adhering to the transport rules.

Action Taken So far

We have taken self-affidavits from the private schools. They also have to provide an affidavit saying that their vehicles functioned according to the transport rules and norms. Third, whoever is driving their vehicles, if they are found drunk, then they (schools) will hold the responsibility, Haryana Education Minister Seema Trikha told reporters on Thursday.

Furthermore, the Mahendragarh district education officer has also sent a proposal to the state government for cancelling the private schools recognition.

So far, police have arrested three people, including the school principal Deepti, one more school official whose name is Hoshiar Singh and the bus driver in connection with the case. Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Assistant Secretary Pradeep Kumar has also been placed under suspension following the incident.

Bus Driver Was Drunk

The driver, Dharmender, was driving rashly due to which he lost control of the bus, which rammed into a tree and overturned, police said, citing reports. Police said the driver was caught from the accident site and his medical examination confirmed he was under the influence of alcohol.

An injured student told reporters that the bus was being driven at a high speed when the driver lost control of the vehicle, resulting in the crash. The driver appeared to be drunk, he said.

Mandeep Singh, a lawyer from Kheri Talwana village, claimed some villagers and parents stopped the bus upon learning that the driver was drunk but the principal intervened and asked them to return him the key, and promised he would be replaced on Friday.

After this, the bus driver again drove off. Minutes later, however, the bus met with the accident, Singh said, adding the fitness certificate of the vehicle had expired long back and it did not have insurance and other documents also.

According to an FIR lodged by a Class 12 student, the driver was stinking of alcohol and ignored repeated requests by children to drive slowly, and allegedly even threatened them.

There was no helper or any woman official on the bus, said the complainant.

The FIR has been filed under IPC Sections 109 (whoever abets any offence), 279 (rash driving), 304 (punishment for culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 336 (whoever does any act so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life or the personal safety others), 337 (causing hurt by endangering life), 120-B (Whoever is a party to a criminal conspiracy) and relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and various other leaders have expressed grief over the accident and called for urgent measures to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

The incident has also raised serious concerns about the safety standards of school transportation as the police said the school bus lacked essential documentation and had previously been fined for non-compliance.
Following the deposition of licenced firearms by the farmers in adherence to the moral code of conduct for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, the Dakshin Kannada district farmers have now turned to cops for the protection of their crops from monkeys and wild animals. As per the report of Times of India, around 13,000 farmers in the district have licenced guns. They acquire these guns to protect their crops from wild elephants, boars, monkeys and other animals. Several farmers have now filed a writ petition to the High Court to seek exemption from the firearms deposition rule. Meanwhile, they have been using the emergency number to call the police in case their crops are attacked.

On April 9, a Vittal region farmer Nishanth Narayana Billampadavu called the cops to drive away the monkeys who have been destroying his crops. According to media reports, he called the emergency number 112 and complained to the cops about the monkey attack. By the time cops arrived at the location, the monkeys had damaged the crops. During the call, the farmer mentioned that he reached out to the police as per the deputy commissioners instructions.

As per media reports, Nishanth has already moved the High Court to exempt firearms from deposition. The High Court heard the petition and granted an exemption to deposit. However, the cops did not hand over the firearms to Nishanth, contradicting the courts orders. Finally, on the next day, the police handed over firearms to Nishanth as per the order of the High Court.

Pro-farmer groups Raitha Sangha and Hasiru Sene have already initiated a campaign seeking the deployment of cops for the protection of their crops. On April 10, Sangha president Sridhar Shetty Bailuguttu urged farmers who have deposited firearms to contact 112 and file a complaint if wild animals created any nuisance in their crop fields. A wild boar recently attacked Rathnakar Suvarna, a farmer in the Savanoor region due to the absence of firearms.
The arrest of two suspects in last months Bengaluru blast from near Kolkata has triggered a big social media debate, with the West Bengal Police and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Malviya engaging in a war of words.

Soon after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) picked up the two suspects from East Medinipur districts Kanthi on Friday, Malviya posted on X (previously Twitter) that West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists.

NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka.West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe  Amit Malviya (  ) (@amitmalviya) April 12, 2024

In Fridays early-morning operation, officials detained the key accused who is believed to have carried out the blast at Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe on March 1 and the suspected co-conspirator in a big breakthrough.

NIA [National Investigation Agency] detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka, Malviyas post said.

The West Bengal Polices reply was prompt. Falsehood at its worst! their post on X said.

Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies.

Falsehood at its worst! Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. (1/2)  West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) April 12, 2024

The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies, it said in another post, a possible reference to an NIA statement that mentioned a coordinated action and co-operation between NIA, Central Intelligence agencies and State Police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala police.

West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities, the polices post added.

Malviya was quick to hit back, accusing CM Banerjee of hiding behind the states police force.

Who is the Chief Minister and Home Minister of West Bengal? Has Mamata Banerjee resigned or too incompetent to defend her poor track record on law and order? Every time she has no answers, which is often, she hides behind @WBPolice. https://t.co/XtQPfbB3bW Amit Malviya (  ) (@amitmalviya) April 12, 2024

Who is the Chief Minister and Home Minister of West Bengal? Has Mamata Banerjee resigned or too incompetent to defend her poor track record on law and order? Every time she has no answers, which is often, she hides behind @WBPolice, he said, tagging West Bengal Police.

Later, from an election rally in Bengal, Banerjee too joined the debate. She said the accused who were hiding here for two hours and within two hours they were arrested due to a prompt response by our state police.

Shesh Paul Vaid, former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police, congratulated NIA for the big breakthrough in the case.

NIA arresting both accused from their Kolkata hideout. Well done, boys. About time legal action was taken against so-called fact checkers & political leaders who tried their best to fake it as a cylinder blast. Time to name & shame such miserable people who do more harm than good, he posted.
A 22-year-old MBBS student allegedly died by suicide on Friday in the northern Mumbai suburb of Kandivali, a police official said.

Ajay Zangid ended his life at around 11:30 am in his house in Charkop, the official said.

He was a student of a medical college in Latur and was reportedly suffering from depression due to low marks in his exams. He hanged himself in the hall of his house when his mother was in another room and his father was out, the official said.

His mother spotted him hanging and alerted her husband and neighbours. He was rushed to hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The family has told us they do not have complaints against anybody in connection with the incident, the official said.
In his bid to fly beyond the skies, Indian pilot Gopichand Thotakura has been selected as a tourist set to go to Space on board the Blue Origin. Thotakura is the first Indian to head to Space as a tourist. He has been selected as part of the crew for Blue Origins New Shephard-25 (NS-25) mission along with five others from around the world.

While the date of the flight is yet to be announced, Thotakura is part of the mission that will be the seventh human flight for the New Shepard program and the 25th in its history.

Who is Gopichand Thotakura?

Born in Vijayawada, Thotakura, 30, is an entrepreneur and pilot who, as described on the Blue Origin website, learnt to fly before he could drive. He is the co-founder of Preserve Life Corp, a global center for holistic wellness and applied health located near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

In addition to flying jets commercially, Gopi pilots bush, aerobatic, and seaplanes, as well as gliders and hot air balloons, and has served as an international medical jet pilot, the Blue Origin website says.

Besides flying, Thotakura is a traveler and an adventure lover. A graduate from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Thotakura recently visited the summit of Mt Killimanjaro.

Blue Origins New Shephard-25 (NS-25) mission

Five others have been selected alongside Thotakura as part of the elite crew for Blue Origins New Shephard-25 (NS-25) mission. They include Mason Angel, a venture capitalist, Sylvain Chiron, an entrepreneur, Kenneth L Hess, a software engineer and entrepreneur, Carol Schaller, a retired CPA and Ed Dwight, an astronaut.

Each astronaut will carry a postcard to space on behalf of Blue Origins foundation, Club for the Future.

Nearly 99% of New Shepards dry mass is reused, including the booster, capsule, engine, landing gear, and parachutes. New Shepards engine is fueled by highly efficient liquid oxygen and hydrogen. During flight, the only byproduct is water vapor with no carbon emissions.
A 17-year-old school student died after falling from the 21st floor of a residential building in the ATS Advantage Society located in Ghaziabads Indirapuram. The incident occurred on Thursday evening when the boy went to the ATS Society to meet a friend.

Police said prima facie it appears as a case of suicide, as a note was found in the boys pocket. However, the police is not ruling out any other possibilities, said Swatantra Kumar Singh, Superintendent of Police, Indirapuram.

The boy was a class 11 student. He was last seen on the 24th floor of the building, taking pictures with his two friends, where they had gone to meet their other friend.

One of his friends told police that the victim said he had to run a few errands and then left. A few minutes later, they saw commotion below and realised their friend had fallen off the 21st floor.

The boy was immediately rushed to Shanti Gopal Hospital. There doctors discovered a suicide note in his pocket.

While the initial probe points towards suicide, the police is investigating all possible angles surrounding the incident.

We received information that a boy jumped off the 21st floor at ATS Society. The boy was around 17 years old. He had gone to ATS society to meet his friend. His friends say that he went down for some work, the SP said.
In January, searches for travel itinerary and solo travel peaked, reaching an all-time high.

Palm Springs and the Florida Keys emerged as two of the most trending weekend getaway destinations.

For romantic getaway searches, Napa Valley in California and Key West, known for its historic landmarks and being the southernmost point in the Continental U.S., were the top trending destinations.

Lastly, La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched for all-inclusive resorts.
The International Day of Human Space Flight is commemorated every year on April 12 to mark the beginning of the space era for mankind. The United Nations General Assembly, on April 7, 2011, passed a resolution to establish the International Day of Human Space Flight on a particular day every year.

The primary reason behind choosing April 12 as the date is rooted in the Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarins achievement to orbit Earth aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft on this day. This achievement by Gagarin paved the path for space exploration for the benefit of humanity.

The International Day of Human Space Flight is celebrated to reaffirm the role of space science and technology in accomplishing sustainable development goals, while also contributing to the improvement of the well-being of states and peoples. To celebrate the day, several space museums, science centres, and schools organise events dedicated to space-related programs.

International Day of Human Space Flight 2024: History

The first human-made satellite Sputnik I was launched into outer space by the Soviet Union in 1957, paving the way for space exploration. It took four years for another momentous occasion to occur. Yuri Gagarin, the Russian cosmonaut, made the first human space journey on April 12, 1961, in Vostok 1, his space spacecraft. Gagarin took 108 minutes to complete his journey in space, which was a watershed moment in the Space Race.

International Day of Human Space Flight 2024: Significance

Space exploration not only provides insights into our solar systems history, but has added a valuable contribution to various fields such as communication, navigation, and weather forecasting among others. Besides, it is helpful in the development of new enterprises.

The United Nations recognises the efforts of scientists in exploring the possibilities to detect potentially hazardous objects roaming in our solar system through these studies and approaching our planet. This helps us in advanced preparations to face an incoming possible danger.

Had it not been for space exploration, the world would not have been able to have satellites in space which are the core foundation for communication, navigation, and security.
Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a significant harvest festival observed in Punjab and other regions of north India. While Baisakhi is a large-scale celebration in Punjab, it also marks the start of the Sikh calendar year. It is an important celebration for both Hindus and Sikhs in Punjab. It occurs every year on April 13 or 14, symbolising the start of the harvest season for Punjabi farmers as well as the New Year in the traditional Bikram calendar.

ALSO READ: Happy Baisakhi 2024: Best Wishes, Vaisakhi Images, Messages, Facebook and WhatsApp Status to Share

People celebrate this special day by dressing in traditional costumes, performing folk dances, and singing songs. Baisakhi celebrations are incomplete without spectacular feasts and a diverse range of traditional cuisine.

Baisakhi 2024: Date

As per Drik Panchang, this years celebration will be on Saturday, April 13. Meanwhile, the Vaishakhi Sankranti Moment will occur at 09:15 PM.

Baisakhi 2024: History

Baisakhi is significant both historically and religiously. On this day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth guru of the Sikhs, is said to have formed the Khalsa Panth (the society of the pure) in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. He selected Baisakhi to establish the Khalsa, a community of soldiers dedicated to fighting tyranny and injustice. He abolished the distinction between upper and lower castes and stated that all humans are equal.

The Guru tradition in Sikhism was eventually abolished with Guru Granth Sahib being deemed the eternal guide for Sikhism.

Vaisakhi is a historic harvest festival celebrated in the Punjab region by all Punjabis, regardless of faith. Vaisakhi is an important day for Punjabis, particularly Sikhs.

Baisakhi 2024: Significance

The sacred festival also marks the start of the Solar New Year, which farmers have traditionally celebrated following the hard work of the harvest season. To atone for their sins and make temple offerings, people bathe in the sacred Ganges river.

Baisakhi is an important celebration commemorating the harvest season and the establishment of the Khalsa Panth. It is a time to gather, pray, and celebrate with love and happiness.

Baisakhi 2024: Celebration

On Baisakhi, people get up early, take a bath and go to the local gurudwara (Sikh temple) to pray before joining the traditional Baisakhi procession. The Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones) lead the parade, which includes music, singing and dancing, as well as individuals offering food and sweets to participants.

Traditional Punjabi foods like kadhi, meethe peeley chawal, kesar phirni, kada prasad and others are prepared to celebrate it lavishly.
Akshay Kumar is currently celebrating the release of the recent film Bade Miyan Chote Miyan alongside Tiger Shroff. However, amidst the excitement, a surprising incident caught headlines as the actors production house fell victim to a fraudulent casting agent. Reports state that the alleged conman was apprehended by the Mumbai Police.

According to ANI, a man was arrested by Mumbais Juhu police station for attempting to deceive Akshay Kumars production house, Cape of Good Films, by offering a job to social media influencer Pooja Anandani as part of a scheme to defraud her.

The arrested suspect, identified as Prince Kumar Sinha, is 29 years old. Pooja managed to thwart the fraud attempt by promptly informing the police. The Juhu police revealed that the perpetrator, posing as Rohan Mehra, a supposed employee of Akshay Kumars production house, allured Pooja with fake job opportunities and a fake film project related to the Nirbhaya case, arranging a meeting in Juhu.

Their initial meeting occurred at a local coffee shop, where Rohan requested Pooja to pose for photographs taken by a bogus photographer claiming to be associated with Amitabh Bachchan. Their subsequent meeting was arranged at the JW Marriott Hotel in Juhu, where police intervened and arrested Prince during the setup.

Further information provided by Juhu Police on April 3 indicated that the accused, presented as Rohan Mehra, falsely identified himself as a Cape of Good Films employee. An investigation confirmed that no such person was employed by the production house. Upon discovering the fraud, Pooja immediately reported the incident to the production house, prompting a complaint to the Juhu police station and resulting in the culprits arrest.

An ongoing investigation is in progress, with authorities advising the public to be cautious and verify the legitimacy of employment offers to prevent falling prey to such fraudulent schemes.
Disney made a big splash at CinemaCon 2024, by treating fans with several exciting footage from Inside Out 2, Deadpool and Wolverine, Captain America: Brave New World, Moana 2, Mufasa: The Lion King, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and more. However, it was the clip from Captain America 4 that stole the show, featuring Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America. Attendees were left on the edge of their seats as they watched Sam Wilson in action-packed scenes saving Thaddeus Thunderbolt Ross, played by Harrison Ford, from attackers in the White House. All the intense action happens after Ross asks Wilson to help him rebuild the Avengers. Interestingly, the movie is set after the events of the Disney Plus series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series.

The upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movie promises to bring back a few familiar faces and introduce new characters and exciting cameos. As per The Hollywood Reporter, the clip starts at the White House, where President Ross calls Wilson and expresses his desire to rebuild the Avengers following the events of Endgame. The scene shifts to Ross thanking Captain America and Phoenix for helping the country during the crisis. Suddenly, the tension escalates after loud music disrupts the meeting and triggers a former soldier Isiah Bradley, who then tries to attack the president.

In an earlier conversation with the portal, Harrison Ford spoke about joining the Marvel Studios and said, I watch all these terrific actors having a good time. I like doing something different to what Ive ever done and pleasing people with it. So Ill try a piece of that.

In addition to some thrilling action sequences, the upcoming film Captain America: Brave New World could see Sam Wilson recruiting new members. There are speculations that characters from The Marvels, such as Iman Vellani and Hailee Steinfeld, might make appearances. Together, theyll set the stage for the Young Avengers.

Directed by Julius Onah, the upcoming Captain America 4 introduces veteran actor Harrison Ford in the role of Thunderbolt Ross. Ford stepped into the shoes of the late William Hurt, who earlier played the character. Returning to the cast is Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, the young man who becomes the Falcon following Sam Wilsons promotion as Captain America. Along with them, Liv Tyler, Tim Blake Nelson, Carl Lumbly, and Shira Haas, will be seen in key roles when the movie hits theatres on February 14, 2025.
Rana Daggubati and Venkatesh have returned to the spotlight as they kick-start the shooting for the second season of Rana Naidu. The action-packed Netflix series follows Rana, called the fixer of the stars, as he solves the complex cases of famous personalities. Season one saw Rana involved in chaos when his father was released from prison. Meanwhile, the original cast left audiences impressed with their performance and the makers are leaving no stones unturned to ensure the new seasons success. To add more excitement, Dino Morea has joined the cast for a major role. Sources reveal that the Raaz star will play the character of a cop and Pinkvilla reports indicate that filming for his part has already begun.

The source stated, Season 2 of Rana Naidu series has cast Dino Morea in an important role in the character of a police officer. Dino has already started shooting for his role. Currently, more details about his character, how Dino will be introduced and the plot details of the upcoming instalment are kept under wraps. However, leaked images from the set, featuring the Venky Mama star, have sparked excitement among fans.

While the debut season of Rana Naidu received praise from audiences, it also faced controversy due to strong language and intimate scenes. However, Venkatesh has assured fans that concerns have been addressed in the upcoming season and fans wont get a chance to complain.

According to Indian Express, during an event in November, the veteran star said, This time, I will be much more careful. I intend not to offend anyone this time. Last time, people from our region got affected, but, I assure you, this time it will be good. However, it will have a tinge of mischief. Naga Naidu is not a common man. People from across the world have been asking us to make the sequel of the web show. All the youngsters have watched it.

Rana Naidu, an official remake of the American series Ray Donovan, is directed by Karan Anshuman and Suparn Varma. Other than Venkatesh Daggubati, Rana Daggubati and Dino Morea, the cast includes Suchitra Pillai, Gaurav Chopra and Surveen Chawla.

Dino Morea has impressed audiences with his performances in films like Raaz, Aksar, Tom, Dick, and Harry, Fight Club and more. In recent years, hes entered OTT and he was last seen in the 2022 series Kaun Banegi Shikharwati. Before that, he showed his talent in the period drama The Empire, the political thriller Tandav and the Ronit Roy-led series Hostages. He also made an appearance in Karisma Kapoors web debut Mentalhood. However, it was his role in The Empire that earned him praise from both viewers and critics. His remarkable performance in the series even earned him the Indian Television Academy Awards.
Twins Paula and Bridgette Powers had cared for the birds for five years, before they were asked to hand them over to Queensland's Department of Environment.

A rare white bird and an exotic parrot that were surrendered to Queensland authorities by two licensed wildlife rescuers have been euthanised. The move has outraged twins Paula and Bridgette Powers who had cared for the birds for five years, but were forced to give them up due to a paperwork error.

Upon hearing the news on Friday afternoon, the women were heartbroken. Were never going to let this rest, they told Yahoo News. They should have given them back to us. We said if they didnt work out with another carer wed take them back."

They had believed the birds had simply been rehomed in another sanctuary and earlier this week, the Powers twins had called on the Queensland Premier to help secure their return.

Paula and Bridgette Powers were mentored by the late Steve Irwin and are expert wildlife carers. Source: Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue

Highly experienced twin rescuers mentored by Steve Irwin

Last week Premier Steven Miles intervened in a similar case involving Molly the magpie  a bird with a combined 2 million social media followers across Instagram, YouTube and Facebook and the twins had hoped he could do the same for them.

The Powers sisters were mentored under the late Steve Irwin and run a dedicated volunteer rescue service under the name Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue and have a small online following.

They've been licensed to help the states wildlife for 24 years, but they didn't have the correct paperwork to house Bonnie the eclectus parrot and Lucas the rare white raven, so they were taken from their care.

But it was just a mistake. But they said we did the wrong thing, the twins claimed.

Bonnie the eclectus parrot and Lucas the rare white raven were seized by Queensland authorities and later euthanised. Source: Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue

Twins recall moment white raven was surrendered

Speaking to Yahoo News on Thursday, the twins recalled the moment Lucas the white raven was taken from them and became emotional. When I had to catch him from the aviary, the poor little thing looked up at me with his beautiful blue eyes. I said: Im sorry sorry you have to go, one said.

We don't know where shes gone. We don't know if shes still alive or not. Not a day has gone by without us not thinking about her.

Queensland authorities explain why birds were euthanised

When news of the birds' euthanasia was broken, their local member Jason Hunter was with the twins.

The sisters had previously thought the birds would likely be rehomed in a sanctuary, but they claim calls for updates about the birds health from the Department of Environment (DESI) had gone unanswered.

On Thursday DESI told Yahoo the white crow had been released, but a day later it clarified this hadn't occurred.

The twins had hoped their birds would be returned like Molly the magpie. Source: Peggyandmolly

The ultimate goal of rehabilitating wildlife is to help get them strong and healthy enough to be able to return to the wild, it said.

In mid-2023, Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue was found to be keeping two birds - a white crow and an eclectus parrot  without the proper approval and they surrendered the birds voluntarily to the department.

After being surrendered, both birds received high quality veterinary care in an effort to get them strong and healthy enough to be able to be rehabilitated. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, expert, independent veterinary advice was to humanely euthanise both birds.

The department respects and appreciates the efforts of all rehabilitation permit holders who work hard  often at their own expense and in their own time  to ensure they are in full compliance with the legislation and the conditions of their permits, which are designed with animal welfare at the forefront.

The white crow was initially handed to the twins by the RSPCA. The twins allege they were advised to ready the bird for a life in a wildlife sanctuary, however in a statement, RSPCA said the plan was for the bird to be released.

A white crow came into our RSPCA Wildlife Hospital five years ago and was transferred to a wildlife rescue group for hand-rearing with a view to release back into the wild, it said.

The advice listed on the crow's animal record, recommended the crow be raised with other crows with the view to be released with them for best chance of survival in the wild. RSPCA's position is wildlife should not be humanised and should be treated and rehabilitated with the purpose of release.

Premier Steven Miles did not respond to a request to comment earlier this week from Yahoo.

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Bollywood actor and former MP Govinda visited the Trimbakeshwar temple in Trimbak, Maharashtra on Wednesday and sought blessings. Accompanied by his brother Kirti and son Yash, Govinda bowed in reverence, marking a significant spiritual moment. He was felicitated by the temple authorities and priests. After his recent entry into the Shiv Sena, there was speculation about Govindas possible candidature from the Mumbai North West Lok Sabha constituency. Govinda preferred not to comment on the matter and remained tight-lipped. Govindas foray into politics dates back to 2004 when he triumphed over Union minister Ram Naik on a Congress ticket and grabbed national attention. Now, he has made his comeback to politics.

As Govindas political aspirations gain momentum, his visit to Trimbakeshwar serves as a poignant reminder of the intertwining of spirituality and public service, leaving both devotees and political observers eagerly awaiting his next move.

Recently, Govinda joined the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. There was vanvaas from 2010 to 2024, he said, recalling his stint in politics from 2004-2009. I am joining the Shiv Sena and it is a blessing from God. I thought I would not enter politics anymore, Govinda said.

It (vanvaas) is over. I have entered the Ram Rajya under Shinde ji, he added. Govinda joined the Congress party in 2004 and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Mumbai North, where he lost to Ram Naik of the BJP. He continued his film career while serving as a Lok Sabha MP. In January 2008, he decided to quit politics and focus on his acting career.

Govinda is an Indian actor, comedian, dancer and politician who has acted in more than 165 Hindi films. Considered as one of the greatest and most culturally significant Indian actors of all time, Govinda is known for his slapstick performances and dance skills. He has been nominated for 12 Filmfare Awards and won two Filmfare Special Awards and a Filmfare Award for Best Comedian.
In 2018, Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan shocked their fans by announcing separation after nearly nine years of marriage. The couple, who first met and fell in love on the sets of 2006 movie Step Up and tied the knot in 2009, were one of Hollywoods strongest pairs. However, six years later, they still havent settled their finances and the argument is related to Tatums earnings from the Magic Mike franchise. According to court documents obtained by People, Dewan wants both of them to testify about their marriage and financial activities, as the actress believes she deserves a share of the profits from the successful film series. The 43-year-old actress argues that the movies were developed and co-financed by Channing during marriage with community effort and marital funds. Dewan further blames Tatum for the delay in settling.

The Rookie actress claims that Tatum and his team set up a complicated network of LLCs, holding companies and partnerships to hide the value of the franchise and its earnings from her. Shes asking for a separate trial to fairly divide assets, alleging that the 21 Jump Street star planned to hide income from her. Tatum, however, strongly denies this and states that he never denied Petitioner of her share of the community assets or income. His legal team also expressed frustration over the five-year-long divorce process and urged for a trial without further delay, as Tatum has exhausted all attempts to settle the matter outside of court.

In a 2023 Vanity Fair interview, Channing Tatum spoke about his split from Jenna Dewan and said, We fought for it for a really long time, even though we both sort of knew that we had sort of grown apart. I think we told ourselves a story when we were young and we just kept telling ourselves that story, no matter how blatantly life was telling us that we were so different. But when youre actually parents you really understand differences between the two of you. In the beginning, it was super scary and terrifying. Your life just turns on its axis. This whole plan that you had literally just turns into sand and goes through your fingers and youre just like, Oh, shit. What now?.

Since their separation, Tatum is currently living with his fiance Zoe Kravitz, while Dewan is engaged to Steve Kazee. Dewan and Kazee are parents to their 4-year-old son Callum and are waiting for the arrival of another baby.

Channing Tatums journey with Magic Mike began in 2011 when he starred and produced the hit film. Inspired by his own experiences, the comedy-drama follows the story of a young male dancer named Mike, who becomes the star attraction at a strip club in Tampa. The movie was a success and in 2015, Tatum returned to the role in Magic Mike XXL. Fast forward to 2023, Tatum reprised his role once again in Magic Mikes Last Dance. The character of Magic Mike earlier inspired a reality TV series in 2021 and stage productions in Las Vegas and London.
Fourteen years after the groundbreaking Love Sex Dhokha (LSD) captured audiences, Dibakar Banerjee reunites with Ekta Kapoor for the much-anticipated sequel, Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2 (LSD 2). The sequels arresting posters and bold teasers have already sparked significant anticipation. Continuing his tradition of boundary-pushing cinema, Dibakar Banerjee is poised to explore yet another compelling narrative of love in the digital age with LSD 2. Today, the films creators released what is arguably the boldest, most enthralling trailer yet for this sequel.

The LSD 2 trailer weaves together three contemporary stories against the backdrop of the internet era, delving into the themes of love, betrayal, and the intricate dynamics of relationships. It reveals the multifaceted nature of love in the modern world. These intertwined narratives are brought to life through the exceptional performances of newcomers Paritosh Tiwari, Abhinav Singh, and Bonita Rajpurohit, alongside seasoned actors Swastika Mukherjee, Tusshar Kapoor, Mouni Roy, Anu Malik, and Uorfi Javed, adding depth and variety to the films exploration of its themes.

Producer and filmmaker Ekta Kapoor recently shared her thoughts on her forthcoming project, Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2, suggesting that she might disappear from the public eye following the films debut. Drawing parallels with the aftermath of her previous movie, Thank You For Coming, Kapoor remarked on how her social media accounts were inundated with negative feedback after its release.

She told Variety, Thank You for Coming has left a very strange pain in my heart because of the kind of reception it got in India, vis-a-vis the reception it got overseas, I dont know what happened. And the hate spamming we went through a our walls used to be spammed every day with hatred, because we attempted to discover and make a movie on female sexuality. I can only imagine whats gonna happen when LSD 2 [Dibakar Banerjees sequel to his 2010 hit LSD: Love, Sex Aur Dhokha] comes. I think Ill have to hide again.
Mom-to-be Deepika Padukone took to Instagram on Friday, April 12, to drop a new photo, clicked by her doting husband Ranveer Singh. Deepika flaunted her beach tan on her back as she smiled, looking away from the camera.

Deepika captioned the post,  @ranveersingh. Deepika wore a grey tank top and had a white tote bag on her shoulder. She tied her hair in a neat bun and looked radiant as she posed under the sun. Check out the post here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by   (@deepikapadukone)

Fans flocked to the comments section of Deepikas post. One person wrote, Happy that girls enjoying tan . Another person wrote, Mama Padukone enjoying her pregnancy. One fan of the actress called her the queen of the universe. One person commented, Cant wait to see ur baby bump u become best mommy .

Deepika Padukone is expecting her first child with actor-husband Ranveer Singh. The two announced their pregnancy in February this year when Deepika shared an adorable poster with September 2024 written on it. The poster also had childrens clothes, toys and balloons as the border. Deepika and Ranveer have been married for over five years now.

The pregnancy announcement came weeks after Deepika said that she wanted to have kids with Ranveer. The actress was speaking to Vogue Singapore when she said, Absolutely. Ranveer and I love children. We look forward to the day when we will start our own family.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Deepika Padukone was recently seen in Fighter with Hrithik Roshan. Next, Deepika Padukone has a number of projects in her pipeline. She will soon be sharing the screen with Prabhas in Kalki 2989 AD. The film also stars Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan in a key role. It will hit theatres in May this year. Besides this, Deepika will also be working on the Hindi remake of The Intern with Amitabh Bachchan. She will also be introduced into Rohit Shettys cop-verse with Singham 3.
Priyanka Chopra likes to keep her fans updated about her whereabouts. From informing fans about her work-related happenings to often sharing unmissable moments of spending quality time with her daughter, Malti Marie, the actresss Instagram handle is filled with engaging posts. This time, too, Priyanka Chopra was seen sharing some candid moments of her day-to-day activities.

In one of the photos, Priyanka could be seen posing for her daughter Malti Maries toy camera. In another photo, Priyanka could be seen riding a tiny see-saw with Malti. Another image featured Malti looking adorable on the streets of France.

Check out Priyanka and Maltis photos here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Priyanka (@priyankachopra)

While the actress is presently busy with the shooting of her upcoming Hollywood film, Heads of State, she never fails to take time to spend with her family, especially her daughter.

Priyanka Chopra recently resumed shooting her next film, Heads of State, alongside Idris Elba and John Cena. She even delighted fans with a BTS snapshot from the set, offering a sneak peek into the location.

Directed by Ilya Naishuller, the films shooting began in May last year. However, not much has been revealed so far about the storyline or characters. Priyanka Chopra is also set to start another production venture with Born Hungry, collaborating with Barry Avrich under her banner, Purple Pebble Pictures.

Notably, the popular actress is back to her usual life after spending a long vacation with her family in India. Priyanka Chopra along with her musician husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti Marie arrived in India and took part in several family functions, including her brothers Roka ceremony and cousin Mannara Chopras birthday party. They celebrated Holi with friends and family members in Noida before taking off for the US.
Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt sent the internet into a tizzy as the Bollywood power couple made a surprise visit to superstar Salman Khans flat at Galaxy apartments in Bandra, Mumbai. The pictures of Ranbir and Alia from Salmans house have gone viral on Reddit and fans cant keep calm. A section of the internet is, in fact, wondering if the trio is collaborating on a movie.

Alia looked stunning in an all-white salwar suit. The actress opted for minimal makeup for her visit. Ranbir, on the other hand, donned blue denim shirt over grey t-shirt and jeans. However, Salman was missing from the photos.

One user wrote, This is surprising. Another one said, Bhai (is) in Animal Park it seems. A third user allegedly claimed, This is Salmans house. RK and Alia were there two days ago. RK  Salman were not on talking terms for the last 10 years. So it means they have patched up.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan was caught singing Saari Duniya Jala Denge from Ranbirs blockbuster film Animal on camera recently. In a viral video, shared by Viral Bhayani on his Instagram account, Salman joins B Praak as the latter sings the hit song from the Sandeep Reddy Vangas directorial. The video was from Anant Ambanis birthday bash in Jamnagar.

B Praak also took to his Instagram account to share a photo with Anant Ambani and wrote, It was Pure Blessings To Perform For You On Your Birthday #anantambani Sir God Bless You You Are Gem Of A Person And @beingsalmankhan sir Thanks For Having Me And Treating Me Like a Family Always. (sic)

Back in March, the Ambani family hosted the pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, daughter of industrialist Viren Merchant, in Gujarats Jamnagar. This star-studded event featured performances by many Indian and international artists. Among the distinguished guests were several Bollywood celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman, Ranbir, Alia, Aamir Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Kareena Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur, who had all gathered in Jamnagar to partake in this special and grand occasion.
Actor and comedian Vir Das suffered injuries during a two-day dance shoot. In his latest Instagram Stories, he shared a picture of his bruises all over his knees. Despite his physical discomfort, Vir Das maintained his humorous spirit and captioned the image with a witty remark. The Delhi Belly actor said that he now knows why women in love songs usually end up saying yes.

The accompanying text read, Spent the last two days dancing. Shooting a song. I think I get why the girl says yes in a love song all these years. Its to avoid further cartilage damage.

Vir Das already revealed on February 5 that he will be starring and co-directing a forthcoming Indian film. Head back to India tomorrow. Very very happy to announce for the next three months I will NOT be touring. Get to sleep in the same bed. Have a routine. Plant some roots. AlsoCo-direct and star in a movie, he wrote on X.

Head back to India tomorrow. Very very happy to announce for the next three months I will NOT be touring. Get to sleep in the same bed. Have a routine. Plant some roots.Also..Co-direct and star in a movie  Vir Das (@thevirdas) February 5, 2024

Two days prior, Vir Das recounted another on-set incident. He shared on X that while heading to the toilet, he stumbled upon an unusual situation: a snake had fallen from the ceiling.

Vir Das recounted another on-set incident two days earlier. Das, taking to X, shared that as he was going to the toilet, he discovered a strange circumstance in which a snake had fallen from the ceiling.

Das uploaded a video to his X and captioned it, saying, At an eco-resort for the night because were shooting nearby. Needed to take a piss. Opened up the bathroom door, stood over the pot, junk out, and before I begana snake fell from the ceiling directly onto the water tank near the flush handle. Yup. Never peeing again.

The video begins with a shot of the snake and Vir Das pointing at it, as a person stands nearby. Das informs him in the video that the snake is stuck and inquires from the employees as to whether the snake is poisonous. It shows the snake attempting to get out of the toilet.

At an eco resort for the night because were shooting nearby. Needed to take a piss. Opened up the bathroom door, stood over the pot, junk out, and before I begana snake fell from the ceiling directly on to the water tank near the flush handle. Yup. Never peeing again pic.twitter.com/OnqX05HJPj Vir Das (@thevirdas) April 10, 2024

Das made his acting debut in Namastey London (2007). He has also starred in other Bollywood films, including Love Aaj Kal (2009), Delhi Belly (2011), Go Goa Gone (2013), Revolver Rani (2014) and Shivaay (2016).

In Judd Apatows 2022 comedy The Bubble, Vir Das played the role of eccentric hotel proprietor Ronjon. In addition, he appeared in an episode of Fresh Off the Boat, the ABC sitcom starring Nahnatchka Khan.

Vir Das will appear in Call Me Bae, Ananya Pandays debut web series.

Furthermore, he was the recipient of the International Emmy for Comedy in the New York event last year. With his Netflix stand-up special Vir Das: Landing, the comedian shared the Best Comedy Series award with the third season of the UK series Derry Girls.

In 2021, Vir Das had a prior nomination in the same category for the stand-up special titled For India.
When the Indian prime minister goes to the temple, the so-called liberal world goes into a meltdown. It is said democracy and religion do not mix in any other country. It is perhaps time to take a tour of other democracies of the world, and their definition of secularism. Most Indians regard the United States of America as the beacon of secular values. The reality is, the US is the farthest from the proverbial separation of Church from State.

Secularism in America

The official motto of the United States is: In God We Trust. This motto comes from the Bible (Psalm 115: 911). In God We Trust is written on American currency notes. Many states of the US mandate the display of the motto on public buildings, government institutions, courts, elementary schools, middle and high schools, and all classrooms.

The United States, specifically the Western civilisation, makes no bones about it that it was founded on Judeo-Christian values, a term that stands for religious, ethical beliefs and cultural values regarded as common to both Judaism and Christianity. US Senate (what we call parliament in India) starts with the prayer O God, through the merits of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, and our Savior. The prayer is not secular, or inclusive of all world religions.

The US Senate has a chaplain or priest, who has an office, staff, and even a communications team. The chaplain performs ceremonial and pastoral duties. He conducts daily prayers for the members, answers questions from the Bible, and conducts a prayer breakfast for the Senate members. To date, all Senate chaplains have been of Christian religion.

The state funds these initiatives. Since the year 2000, the US has spent over 10 million dollars of taxpayers money on Christian prayers. During the pandemic, the US Roman Catholic Church received special exemptions from federal rules and received grants of at least $1.4 billion in taxpayer money and Covid aid. Many allege that much of this money will be used by the Church to settle sexual abuse legal cases. Overall, the Catholic Church received over $3.5 billion, making it one of the biggest beneficiaries of the US governments pandemic relief grants.

In the 2014 Supreme Court Case, Town of Greece v. Galloway, the court upheld the legality of prayer in all public forums, including the federal government. In a 5-4 decision, the US Supreme Court opined prayers in the Senate are legal, part of US history, a way to solemnize public affairs.

Religion is on display in the conduct of the elected heads of state. Every newly elected President of the United States officially seeks blessings from the Pope of the Vatican Catholic Church. The presidents wife goes along, wearing the customary black veil. This has been an unbroken tradition since time immemorial.

Secularism in Britain

British monarchs are officially called Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England. They have to be full members of the Church of England, and mandatorily, take the oath to maintain the Church during their coronation. The coronation of the British Head of Parliament is a 100 per cent religious ceremony. The Church of England appoints 26 bishops to the British Parliament. They are called Lords Spiritual who sit in the House of Lords in the UK, conduct daily prayers, give opinions on important matters, and have full voting rights. The bishops are paid up to 27,000 pounds for attending parliament.

In 2023, a new bill was introduced in the British Parliament, called the Disestablishment of the Church of England, to formally separate the state from the Church of England. The bill has not been passed yet.

Secularism in Australia

Traditionally in Australian politics, the Labor Party was primarily composed of Catholic Christians, and Liberals were supported by the Protestant Christians. Since 1982, the Australian Parliament has had the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship Trust with the mission to promote Christianity in Parliament. It is recognised as a forum for national leaders to come together to pray for our nation, national issues, and Christian values.

Australias churches were granted millions of dollars in JobKeeper payments, as part of Covid programs in 2020. Australian tax records show that 3,500 Christian organisations received $627 million in 2020.

If I move the gaze to Europes entanglement of State and church, it will generate matter worthy of an entire book, running into hundreds of pages.

What is Bharatiya Secularism?

The above comparison, merits the question  Does any of this happen in India? The answer is an emphatic no!

Unlike Britain, the Indian Parliament is not the defender of any faith. Unlike the US, the elected head of the Indian state is not obliged to visit any religious leader to seek blessings. Unlike the US and Britain, there are no chaplains, bishops, or priests officially paid for by using the taxpayers money.

But educated Indians are Macaulays children. We have been fed the wrong definition of secularism. Our colonisers gave us their definition of secularism and democracy. We have been benchmarking ourselves against these definitions that come from Western civilisation, founded on Judea-Christian values.

Centuries of colonisation have led us to the mindset that the West is the best. We have forgotten that Bharatvarsha rests on Sanatana Dharma values. Dharma and righteousness have always been part of Bharats governance. It is the job of the king or ruler, to ensure that everyone follows dharma while doing their duty. Each individual is empowered to follow their swadharma, including their own samaanya and vishesh dharma, making this philosophy inherently panthnirpeksha.

Sanatana Dharma is intrinsically secular, making Bharat secular, largely because the vast majority of Hindus are Sanatani and hence inherently secular.

Anu Lall is the founder of YogaSmith, author and entrepreneur. She is a lawyer and has worked in the pharmaceutical and technology industry in Asia, USA, and Europe. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
China continues to flex its muscles in the South China Sea, raising tensions with the Philippines by aggressively pursuing its illegal claims in these waters. The Permanent Arbitration Tribunal under UNCLOS has already declared Chinas 9 Dash line as having no basis in international law, but China is undeterred and continues to assert its historical claims much beyond its EEZ.

It is accusing the Philippines of violating Chinese sovereignty, threatening it with consequences, and blaming the US for promoting tensions. China is following its usual tactics of creating a problem and then claiming that it is the wronged party. After creating differences, it then calls for managing them properly. It is a deceitful way of blaming the other side for creating differences and putting the onus on it to accommodate Chinas claims. This is the diplomatic trope China also uses in the case of the border issue with India.

China has been steadily raising temperatures on the Taiwan issue, with aggressive statements and military moves. President Xi has stated categorically that Taiwan will inevitably be unified with mainland China either peacefully or by use of force, if necessary. The strategy is to project an uncompromising position while building up Chinas military strength which would, in its view, increasingly raise the cost of intervention by the US and its allies in the defence of Taiwan and conceivably let China achieve its goal without the use of force.

This is diplomatic brinksmanship based on the assumption that the US is a declining power which would not want to risk an actual conflict with China over a distant territory, particularly with the experience of the Korean and Vietnam wars in mind. It would therefore opt ultimately for some pragmatic, compromise solution. Xi has given himself a timeline of 2049 for absorbing Taiwan, banking on a decisive shift in the power balance between it and the West by then, and in any case, he would not be in power 25 years from now.

The US has responded to mounting tensions in the western Pacific by reinforcing its alliances in the region, be it with Japan, South Korea and the Philippines. In August 2023, President Biden held a first-ever trilateral summit in the US with the leaders of Japan and South Korea. Unresolved differences between Japan and South Korea have been a chink in the armour in terms of a united front against China in the region.

Japan under Prime Minister Kishida has made moves to strengthen its own defence posture by raising its defence budget, initiating a re-armament programme, assuming more security responsibilities in the region, and so on.

AUKUS had already signalled a more robust deterrent posture against Chinas aggressive policies in the western Pacific to quell doubts about the strength of US security commitments to the region. In real terms, the announcement of AUKUS, a long-term project to equip Australia with nuclear-propelled submarines, did not materially change the security balance in the region. It was more a prospective signal that Chinas expansionist ambitions in the region will be countered.

Japan has signalled an interest in joining AUKUS as a partner, though it is not clear how receptive the other AUKUS partners are. The Australian prime minister has poured cold water on any immediate plans for expanding AUKUS, though he has stated that AUKUS partners will work with Japan on the sharing of technology.

This reticence in making Japan a partner could well be to avoid a rupture in the dialogue that Australia seeks with China to lower bilateral tensions. The US too is engaging China with the Biden-Xi exchanges, recent visits to China of a very high-level CEOs delegation and that of the Treasury Secretary Yellen, not to mention the projected visit of German Chancellor Scholz to China with a high-level business delegation, followed by Xis visit to France etc. It appears that there is some tactical responsiveness to Xis softer posturing on China welcoming more Western investment and the mutual benefits to be derived from opening up to each other. Maintaining such opening suits both sides even as the underlying adversarial posture is also retained. India is following this policy too.

In any case, Japan is already in alliance with the US and the effort now is to deepen that alliance not only bilaterally but also regionally. In addition to the trilateral US, Japan and South Korea summit, leaders from Japan and the Philippines are set to meet in Washington for a trilateral summit aimed at strengthening defence ties. This follows recent military exercises in the South China Sea involving the US, Japan, the Philippines, and Australia.

Separately, Japan is strengthening bilateral ties with the Philippines. It has sold coastal radars to it and is now negotiating a defence agreement that would include joint military exercises. Japans new Official Security Assistance scheme is intended to strengthen the security capacities of like-minded states and improve their deterrence capabilities.

It is significant that India too has begun strengthening ties with the Philippines, including in the defence domain. Minister Jaishankar was in the Philippines recently where he firmly reiterated Indias support for the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty. He added that the 1982 UNCLOS was the constitution of the seas and all parties must adhere to it in its entirety, both in letter and spirit. This statement can be read as Indias firm commitment to the Indo-Pacific concept and its readiness to contribute to the security of the Pacific region too.

With all these developments, a question has arisen about the strategic importance of Quad in addressing challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Will an expanded AUKUS and strengthened US-led alliances in the western Pacific reduce the salience of the Quad?

While the Quad stands for a Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and one of its primary objectives is to work for a free, open, prosperous, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, its agenda goes well beyond security in the traditional sense. Its focus is on securing a rules-based global order, freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as exchanges on contemporary global issues such as critical and emerging technologies, connectivity and infrastructure, cybersecurity, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, climate change, pandemics and education.

Quad was not intended to be a military alliance. The US has been underlying this too. The three other members of the Quad  the US, Japan and Australia  are close military allies. That alliance has been regionally strengthened with the inclusion of South Korea and the Philippines, which are also allies of the US. The immediate security challenge is in the western Pacific. This is primarily related to Chinas threat to Taiwan, its aggressive expansionism in the South China Sea, and its developing confrontation with the Philippines over the Spratly Islands.

China-contested sovereignty over islands reefs or rocks, or maritime boundaries does not exist in the Indian Ocean. Chinas expansionism in the Indian Ocean is strategic; it does not violate international law. However, China is also vulnerable in the Indian Ocean. This Chinese challenge needs to be met differently. India is doing increasingly complex exercises along with the Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in the Sea of Japan. India has signed logistics agreements with the US, Japan and Australia, which provide the basis of security cooperation to meet Chinas threat in the Indo-Pacific theatre, if and when required.

China has vulnerabilities in the Indian Ocean area as the sea lanes vital for its exports and imports pass through these waters. To exploit these vulnerabilities, the role of Indias naval and air assets would be indispensable. India has already described itself as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean. In combating piracy and protecting commercial shipping from Houthi attacks, India has deployed 10 naval ships in the Indian Ocean with success.

In the larger agenda of Quad, India has played and can play a vital role as the first responder in case of humanitarian disasters. The value it can bring to cooperation in developing critical and emerging technologies is already recognised by the US under the iCET. Connectivity and infrastructure are areas in which Indias participation, especially with its leadership of the Global South, can be an asset. As shown during the Covid pandemic, India can be a vital partner in the healthcare sector, especially in the production of vaccines.

The China challenge goes far beyond the western Pacific. The strengthened US-led alliances in the western Pacific have their more security-oriented deterrent role, while the Quad, with India in it, has a wider, more diffused role in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and providing more options to countries in the region in diverse areas.

Kanwal Sibal is a former Indian Foreign Secretary. He was Indias Ambassador to Turkey, Egypt, France and Russia. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Sharad Pawar had made up his mind in 2019 to form the government with BJP but had a change of heart after Ajit Pawars swearing-in with Devendra Fadnavis, senior NCP leader Praful Patel has alleged. In a scathing interview to CNN-News18, the senior Ajit Pawar group leader spoke elaborately on the sequence of events in 2019 and thereafter, noting the NCPs flip-flops with BJP since 2014.

I was party to several rounds of conversations with the BJP. We were discussing that we should come to power  in 2014 and 2019. In 2014, we had supported the BJP from outside. We got their Speaker elected even when they did not have adequate numbers, Patel told CNN-News18 on the campaign trail in Bhandara.

There was a change of heart. I dont know why Sharad Pawar did so. This happened quite a few times, he said, referring to the partys possible alliance and thereafter backing off, at least two times.

Alliance with Shiv Sena Unacceptable

Patel said the NCPs alliance with Shiv Sena came as a shocker and added that the party was criticised the most by the then-Uddhav Thackeray led outfit. He said that the Senas stance during the riots after the Babri Masjid demolition and its divisive politics in Mumbai had been completely antithetical to the NCPs position till then.

Even after the NCP joined the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), the party was unhappy because of the way it was treated, Patel said. The rank and file were not very happy with MVA. There was no partnership (with Uddhav Thackeray). We are talking of getting an equal political share. That wasnt happening. So, we spoke with BJP, he said.

When asked what Sharad Pawar said about the groups decision to form an alliance with the BJP, he said, A leader can have a change of heart. But there has to be appreciation of what the rank and file want. Today, the political landscape has changed. BJP is a different party from the Jan Sangh. It is inclusive. There has been no communal problem in the last 10 years, he added.

When asked about the ideological differences with the BJP, he said: If we can talk to the BJP in 2014 and 2019, then the ideological lines are blurred. We cant talk of ideology alone.

Launching an attack on Sharad Pawar, he said: Pawar saahab did not rightly gauge the pulse of the party workers and the elected members last time. Thats a fact.

Elaborating on the NCPs decision to go with Shiv Sena in 2019, he said: There was no reason why we should have tied up with the Shiv Sena and abandon a possible tie-up with BJP which we had already discussed with them in 2019.

Ajit Pawar was let down

Explaining the 2019 swearing-in fiasco, Patel said: Ajit Pawar took oath with Fadnavis (in 2019). There can be no smoke without fire. There was an understanding with the BJP. BJP was categorical that it hadnt offered chief ministerial position to Uddhav Thackeray. We came together. Presidents Rule was lifted. But then we went the other way with Shiv Sena. Ajit Pawar was let down. We didnt have a choice but to exit eventually from the government.

Uddhav as CM for 5 years?

When asked if the NCP agreed to give the entire five-year chief ministership to Uddhav Thackeray, he said: I asked Pawar sahab the same thing. They have 56, we have 54. Let them have first 2.5 years. It even works if it is 3 years [for them] and 2 years for us. I spoke with Uddhav. He stayed mum. Pawar sahab also didnt give any answer. In 2004 as well, NCP had lost the opportunity to wear the CMs crown. We would have made our party much stronger. The party felt let down. We didnt get a chance at all. Also, Uddhav did not respond to our party workers the way a chief minister should have responded. There was brewing discontent.

What about the MVA?

Predicting the decimation of MVA, Patel said: It isnt an alliance based on merit but on compulsion. When we were in Congress, there was suffocation, so we left. Congress has no LoP in Parliament and only one MP in Maharashtra. The alliance wont last long.
BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Over 70 foreign diplomats from 49 countries attended a conference held in Beijing on Wednesday, to learn about economic and social development and human rights protection achievements in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Ambassadors delivering speeches gave positive comments on Xinjiang and some shared their personal experiences of their visits to Xinjiang. They are looking forward to more cooperation between their home countries and China's Xinjiang.

Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele, ambassador of South Africa to China, said that during his visit to Xinjiang in 2023, he had experienced the hospitality of the local people, praising their harmonious life and freedom of religious belief.

Ambassador of Turkiye to China, Ismail Hakki Musa, said China's Xinjiang has developed rapidly, and people of all ethnic groups have enjoyed good development rights.

Syrian ambassador to China, Mhd Hasanein Khaddam, said Xinjiang's development achievement is admirable, and lies fabricated by some Western countries cannot hinder the prosperity and success of China's Xinjiang.

Ambassador of Iran to China, Mohsen Bakhtiar, said China has made a strong commitment to Xinjiang's high-quality development. He said Xinjiang plays an important role in the Belt and Road Initiative, and its achievements in economic development, infrastructure, environmental protection, humanities, science and technology are impressive.

Shakhrat Nuryshev, ambassador of Kazakhstan to China, said the China (Xinjiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone established last year contributes to the development of Xinjiang and neighboring countries.

Pakistani ambassador Khalil-ur-Rahman Hashmisaid he appreciates the long-term friendly cooperation between Pakistan and China, and is looking forward to further strengthening cooperation with Xinjiang on trade, investment, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges, among others.
As the hype over electric vehicles (EV) reaches new heights in Australia, so too does the list of problems insufficient EV infrastructure poses for current drivers, with those in the know insisting we need to "urgently" catch up with demand.

Despite government plans to grow the country's EV network drastically by 2030, with over 87,200 electric vehicles sold in the 12 months to January, a lack of charging sites remains one of the biggest frustrations among EV owners today. But Aussies have pointed out another glaring issue with existing charging bays across the country.

Carola Jonas, CEO and Founder of Everty  a software platform for EV charging stations  said it's something charging station owners and operators must "pay close attention to" when speaking with Yahoo News Australia on Friday. This is evident in a photo shared online this week.

A Tesla driver was mocked for mounting the kerb at the EV charging station. Source: Facebook

Tesla driver's frustrating issue at charging bay

The image appears to show a Tesla driver's mishap at a charging bay at an undisclosed location. The car is parked well beyond the bay's perimeters having mounted the kerb in front.

At first glance, critics were quick to question why the driver didn't reverse into the bay making it easier for the charging cable to reach the outlet, with the apparent blunder being branded "stupid" and "idiotic".

"Im aware they dont have a spare tyre, I wasnt aware that they dont have reverse," mocked one on Facebook sharing the image on Thursday. "Obviously dont have a brake either," replied another suggesting the Tesla had rolled forward by accident.

But all is not as it appears as the image exposes another crucial issue EV drivers face. What wasn't shown in the cropped image was the trailer being towed by the car, an eagle-eyed Aussie pointed out, sharing the original version from EV Stealth  an Australian-owned business that specialises in tow bars and other accessories for Electric Vehicles.

According to RAVC, most charging stations arent designed to cater to cars with caravans so, with the current infrastructure, drivers often have to unhitch the trailer to effectively charge their vehicle  or risk blocking other vehicles.

The full image shows the EV towing a trailer which does not fit in an ordinary charging bay. Source: EV Stealth

Possible solution to common EV problem

As charging station owners and operators work to improve Australia's growing charging network, Jonas said: "I think we need to look at this holistically". Not only do we have a lot of catching up to do in terms of having ample charging stations both roadside and in buildings, but she said we need to find "a balance" in the type of bays available.

"If you look at the charging stations in Wilson or Secure car parks in the city CBDs the parking bays there are limited, but you also wouldn't use these ones with a trailer," she said. "But then when you look at highway charging or charging in more public open locations, it would definitely be good if the charging networks start implementing a mix [of suitable bays]".

Jonas noted that petrol companies are now jumping on board by rolling out EV charging stations at sites across Australia. Ampol for example currently operates 86 AmpCharge EV charging bays across 38 sites and has plans to install over 300 at more than 100 Australian sites by the end of 2024, the company confirmed to Yahoo.

More EV charging stations are needed to help keep up with Australia's demand for electric vehicles. Source: Getty

Jonas said some charging networks are currently installed in the "trucking area" at some petrol stations so "trucks and longer EV vehicles can still use them" with ease. This includes regular vehicles towing a caravan or trailer.

"So even if you come there with a normal passenger car, you can just drive into the trucking parking area and use the charger. The other way around, it wouldn't have been possible. So there are solutions, but it's really for the infrastructure providers to make sure they're for the right mix."

Government tries to keep up with boom in EVs

With currently only 3,000 public charging stations nationwide, equating to 7,000 individual plugs, the government is "working quickly to ramp up EV charging" as it incentivises carmakers to import cleaner cars.

"Were working quickly to ramp up EV charging across Australia to ensure easier, cheaper holiday weekend driving," Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen previously said.

Jonas said while "the government is already doing a fair bit" to help meet Aussie demand, financing and speed remain "critical areas of concern".

EV owner and host of Two Blokes Talking Electric Cars, Trevor Long, agreed he'd like to see independent charging companies like Evie growing quicker than they are, previously telling Yahoo the huge investment needed was a significant roadblock.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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The Uttar Pradesh Polices order to ensure deployment of cops in saffron attires at the Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi has sparked a fresh controversy. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday slammed the UP Government and demanded suspension of the police officer who ordered the cops to dress as priests. He also questioned the police manual and questioned what if any thug takes advantage of this and loots the innocent public.

According to which police manual is it correct to have policemen dressed as priests? Those who give such orders should be suspended. If tomorrow any thug takes advantage of this and loots the innocent public, then how will the UP government and administration answer? Condemnable, Yadav posted on his X (previously Twitter) handle.

              ?                  -      -   ! pic.twitter.com/BQUFmb7xAA  Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) April 11, 2024

The SP chiefs reaction came after Varanasi Police Commissioners recent order on deployment of cops at the temple in priests attires.

However, Mohit Agarwal, police commissioner of Varanasi, who shot the order, said, Unlike other places, the deployment at the religious place is altogether a different thing. Unlike other places, there is no law and order issue here at the temple and, hence, there was a need to opt for different tactics to man the crowd. It has been observed that in temples, people give more weightage to the priest and, hence, it was thought to deploy cops in the attires of priests at the temple.

Meanwhile, SP leaders said that they are likely to file a complaint with the Election Commission against the change of dress code of the security personnel posted on the premises of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Besides, they also questioned the power of a police commissioner stating that the CP does not have the right to change the dress code of a security personnel.

The Commissioner of Police does not have any right to change the dress of the security staff. Sudden change of dress, amidst elections, is a sheer breach of model code of conduct, said Udaiveer Singh, senior SP leader.

Some of the associates of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, too, raised a question on the move and said that nobody had the right to change the dress of a cop on duty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been asserting in his election rallies that the corrupt will have to go to jail, has highlighted a lesser discussed fact in connection with graft cases. He said that of the matters probed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), only three per cent have people associated with politics. The remaining 97 per cent cases are linked to officials and criminals.

His statement comes amid allegations by leaders of the Opposition parties that the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) is misusing central probe agencies to target opponents in election season.

The attacks by BJPs rivals have stepped up after the arrest of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Bharat Rashtra Samithi MLC K Kavitha, former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, and Income Tax department freezing bank accounts of Congress in connection with reassessment of partys income.

PM Modi, while speaking to Hindustan, warned that his governments action against corruption will continue, and will, in fact, intensify in his third term as prime minister.

Spoke about various subjects pertaining to Indias development and the upcoming elections in the interview with @Live_Hindustan. @shekharkahin https://t.co/4uSw0SuX4g Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 12, 2024

Eliminating corruption has been a key priority of our government for the last 10 years. We took steps to act against corruption at several levels immediately after forming the new government in 2014, he was quoted as saying.

Steps Taken By Modi Government Against Corruption

 Ending Group C and Group D interviews in central recruitments.

 Starting the National Single Window System for clearance in the country.

 Trying to make government services as faceless as possible.

 Creating the DBT (direct benefit transfer) system to prevent the money of the poor from going into the pockets of middlemen.

 As a result, removing the names of more than 10 crore (100 million) fake beneficiaries who were not even born. By doing this, the government saved Rs 2.75 trillion from going into the wrong hands.

The prime minister further told HT: I am committed to taking strict action against the corrupt. Steps are being taken even in states where the BJP is in power.

The narratives you have heard, that it is only political corruption that we are after, are being circulated by people who are under the sword of investigative agencies.

Let me tell you another fact which is not discussed much. Of the corruption cases probed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), only 3% have people associated with politics. The remaining 97% cases are linked to officials and criminals. Action is being taken against them, too, PM Narendra Modi further said.

He was quoted as saying that those who see benefits in a corrupt system are the ones who are crying foul and presenting the wrong picture in front of the people.

The ED has also arrested many corrupt officers. Assets worth thousands of crores of corrupt bureaucrats, criminals linked to illicit funding, and drug dealers have been attached. Before 2014, the ED attached assets worth only Rs 5,000 crore, whereas in the last 10 years that amount has increased to more than Rs 1 trillion, PM Modi explained amid Opposition attacks.

Elaborating on the work of central probe agencies before the BJP regime, PM Modi said, Before 2014, the ED seized only Rs 34 lakh in cash, while under our government it has seized more than Rs 2,200 crore in cash.

PM Narendra Modi asked people to image how many Indians would have benefitted and the opportunities created for youth, only if this money was invested in welfare schemes for the poor. So many new infrastructure projects could have been launched, he added.

Whatever be the level of corruption, it impacts the people of the country. I assure your readers that action against such people, who steal the money meant for the welfare of the people of this country, will not end, PM Modi further told HT.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will meet Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in Tihar jail on April 15. The development comes after the security review in Tihar earlier in the day.

According to a PTI report, Tihar jail officials, Delhi Police and Punjab Police on Friday discussed the security arrangement for Bhagwant Manns meeting with AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal in the prison.

The discussion at the office of the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in Tihar, was held to make security arrangements and complete codal formalities, as mandated in Delhi Prison Rules, to arrange a meeting between the two leaders.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann had sought time from the Tihar administration to meet the Delhi chief minister. Kejriwal, on the other hand, has given the names of six people, including the Punjab chief minister, whom he wants to meet in jail.

AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam. He is under judicial custody in Tihar Jail till April 15.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday said the BJP can put Arvind Kejriwal behind bars, but cannot imprison the latters ideas and the change he and his party has brought about.

The idea with which the AAP works has been witnessed in Delhi and Punjab and they (the BJP) can arrest one Kejriwal, but there are thousands across the country who are following the party principles of giving to the people what they need the most, Mann said at an election rally campaigning for his party candidate Manoj Dhanowar for the Dibrugarh seat.

They thought that if Kejriwal is sent to jail, AAP will be finished. But, how will they imprison his ideas? the Punjab CM added.

Meanwhile, BRS MLC K Kavitha was sent to the custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) till April 15 in the alleged liquor policy scam by a Delhi court earlier in the day.

K Kavitha, the daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, was arrested by the CBI on Thursday from judicial custody in Tihar jail, where she has been lodged after her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
Takshvi Vaghani, a six-year-old from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, has achieved the title of lowest limbo skating over 25 m, said Guinness World Records (GWR). In a video shared by the record-keeper on Instagram, we can see Takshvi nailing the challenge without breaking a sweat. For those who dont know, this particular sport requires the person to skate beneath a horizontal pole. Takshvi achieved the feet on March 10 last year. As per GWRs official website, Takshvi decided to attempt for personal achievement. The video created a buzz after Guinness World Records posted it on April 10. Lowest limbo skating over 25 m,16 cm (6.29 in) by Takshvi Vaghani, the side note read.

Watch:

Within a few hours of being shared, the video collected 1.5 million views and several comments. A user wrote, Kinda records that should be beaten, just wow. Another said, Awesome and Amazing! Congratulations. A user commented, Impressive. While another said, She has potential, and a user lauded her feat saying, Wow, so proud of her.

On the other hand, Manasvi Vishal of Pune had previously held the title of lowest limbo skating over 25 m Guinness World Records. Manasvi accomplished this feat by gliding for a distance of 25 metres while maintaining a height of only 16.5 centimetres above the ground.

At the age of three and a half, Manasvi Vishal developed an interest in limbo skating. She then took a year to be ready for her attempt to set a new Guinness World Records. Manasvi set her record on July 29, 2023, although Guinness World Records didnt confirm it until October 2023 for several reasons, according to The Indian Express.

Furthermore, an 18-year-old Indian skater named Shrishti Dharmendra Sharma set a new world record in July 2023 when she completed the distance in 6.94 seconds, which is the fastest time to limbo skate over 50 metres. She broke her own mark, which she had set in 2021 with 7.38 seconds, with this.

In addition, the world record for farthest distance limbo skating under bars was set in May 2017 by Manipur native Tiluck Keisam, who skated up to 145 metres (475 feet 7 inches) under poles that were just 30 cm high.

In August 2016, six-year-old Om Swaroop Gowda from Bengaluru set a new record for the Farthest distance limbo-skating under cars by skating 65.283 metres under 36 different cars.
The bond between siblings is often considered as one of the most profound connections in life and the loss of that bond, whether through death or separation, can be an unimaginable pain for many. Recently, a man took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to narrate a heartwarming story of a remarkable bond between his 98-year-old nana (maternal grandfather) and his siblings.

The post features four beautiful pics of a 98-year-old man (maternal grandfather) and his younger brother. In one of the pics, grandfather can be seen posing with his younger brother. In the second, the two can be seen walking in the alley. In the third, they can be seen discussing something while looking at the photo wall. In the fourth, the younger brother can be seen praying in front of his sister-in-laws (brothers late wife) portrait who passed away last year.

The post is shared by an X user named Bhavik Saglani (@DoctorLFC). Sharing the post Bhavik wrote a long note, My nana and his siblings were a team of 11! Only two of them are still alive. My nana is 98, and one of his younger brothers, who lives in the USA, is in his late 80s. He had come down to India to meet Nana recently. My Nana was the 1st from his family to go out of his village in Gujarat to Ahmedabad for studies in his teens and then to pre-independence Bombay for work when he was 20.

Bhavik further narrated, A few of his siblings followed him to Bombay in due course of time, and everyone who came to the city stayed at nana-nanis house until they finished their education or got married or could buy their own house. He also added, We lost my nani last year, and she had done so much for my nanas siblings, including his younger brother when he was studying and working in Bombay. But now, a photograph kept close to my nanas work desk, and a lot of fond memories are all we have. In the end, Bhavik concluded with a message, These are the stories that every family must preserve and cherish. Stories of love, family, help, and togetherness.

Also Read: Parents Priceless Reaction to Daughters Bridal Look Will Bring You Happy Tears, Watch Video

Check Bhavik Saglanis full post:

My nana and his siblings were a team of 11! Only two of them are still alive. My nana is 98, and one of his younger brothers, who lives in the USA, is in his late 80s. He had come down to India to meet nana recently.My nana was the 1st from his family to go out of his village pic.twitter.com/m9hRS9YCEf  Zucker Doctor (@DoctorLFC) April 11, 2024

Also Read: Watch: Man Takes ASMR Mukbang Trend To Another Level, Devours Giant Nutella Jar In One Go

The post was shared a day ago and since then it has collected thousands of views. Bhaviks nana and his younger brothers reunion reminisces about their shared heritage, their bond remains unbreakable. Despite the passage of time, a cherished photograph and infinite memories served as an important reminder of the love, support, and togetherness to define their familys legacy. Several users expressed their thoughts in the comments section of the post. Our previous generations beat a lot of odds to make us see this day. You are very right. These stories need to be preserved and shared, a user expressed. What an endearing hug! May God bless them both with health and happiness, added a second. Thats the beauty of the Indian family system, wrote a fourth.
The thought of evacuating an aeroplane in an emergency in a neon life jacket is not something most people want to imagine. Its a stressful scenario, and everyone hopes it never happens. However, these life jackets, designed to keep you afloat in water even if you are unconscious, are one of the most remembered aspects of the pre-flight safety demonstration, particularly because being able to grasp them quickly might make the difference between life and death.

It has a whistle and a light, and it can only be inflated after youve exited the plane. So overall, life jackets are a useful piece of equipment that can have a huge impact during a dangerous incident. But some travel firms provide tourists with an unusual and bizarre alternative instead of life vests. Yes, you read that right.

Picture how terrified passengers could be if everything theyve ever known about safety in the skies is chucked out of the window while flying with certain carriers. These strange replacements will probably give chills down the spines of flyers when they see the alternative they are supposed to rely on during such a terrifying incident.

Wondering what it may be? Hold on to your horses. Instead of strapping on a life jacket, some airlines offer passengers the thing they sit and rest upon as a life preserver, flotation seat cushions.

However, unlike wearing a life jacket, using a flotation seat device cannot keep a person afloat or face up when they are unconscious, as it requires the person to maintain control of it.

As reported by Ladbible, the European Technical Standard Order, published by the European Aviation Safety Agency, states that there are a range of items onboard that can also act as floatation devices. The order states, Seat cushions, arm rests, head rests, pillows, or similar aircraft equipment are eligible as flotation devices under this standard provided, they fulfil minimum requirements for safety and performance.

Compression through extended service use, perspiration, and periodic cleaning must not reduce the buoyancy characteristics of these devices below the minimum level prescribed in this standard, it elucidates.

While this revelation sounds silly to a lot of flyers, it made perfect sense to airlines, and they believe that sometimes they snub life jackets in favour of flotation seat cushions to save fuel, weight, and therefore money.

Spokeswoman Manon Stuart previously told NBC that the nature of their operations doesnt require that they carry both, according to Ladbible.

Airline Safety Advocate and US safety professional Woody French also told the publication in 2008, A lot of these airlines say, Well, our passengers are our main concern. Thats a bit of a misnomer. Were a distant second. Profits are the first.

Air Canadas regional carrier Jazz previously said, They are abiding by government regulations that allow firms to use floatation devices instead of life vests, provided the planes remain within 50 nautical miles of shore.
Right after a Gurugram resident voiced his concerns about his sons soaring school fees, a father from Delhi stepped up to share the hefty bill for his sons playschool. Posting about paying Rs. 4.3 lakhs for his little ones early education, he stirred up quite a storm of shock and laughter online.

My sons Playschool fee is more than my entire education expense, wrote Akash Kumar on X. Accompanied by a screenshot breaking down the fees into four terms along with registration and annual charges, the total reached a staggering Rs. 4,30,000. Imagine, a tot whos just learning to walk is being schooled at a rate higher than what some freshers earn today!

Also Read: CSK Fan Who Paid Rs 64,000 to Watch Dhoni Yet to Pay Daughters School Fees

I hope vo ache se khelna seekhle yaha! joked Kumar, pointing out the absurdity of such a high fee for playing. Soon, the post spread like wildfire, sparking a flurry of comments.

My sons Playschool fee is more than my entire education expense I hope vo ache se khelna seekhle yaha! pic.twitter.com/PVgfvwQDuy  Akash Kumar (@AkashTrader) April 12, 2024

I hope he becomes Virat Kohli, quipped one user. Thats exorbitant. Every grain of sand in that playground better be edible lol, added another. The third chimed in, With this much money I had completed my school, diploma and engineering studies The fourth, keeping the humour rolling, exclaimed, This one has to be the best contraceptive ad!

In the midst of the banter, there were some who struck a more serious note with one advising, Note to parents: if you can, ask the teachers of these institutions, how much they are getting paid per month. Having talked to a few, even DPS teachers in delhi get 30-35K per month and most of them are on contract.

Its not the school to be blamed but the parents who want their kids to perform like a superhuman in all fields at whatever the cost may be. Finally, its the Home where a kid spends max time and learns the basic ethics, moral education which is not taught in any of the institutes, opined another.

Also Read: School Charges Parents With Bizarre Orientation Fee for KG Students, Internet Goes, Wait, What?

Nevertheless, since its posting just a few hours ago (as at the time of writing), the post has already garnered 280K views on the site.
Rituals revolving around human sacrifices as part of old traditions often surface from different corners of the globe. Now, scientists have excavated skeletons at Saint-Paul-TroisChateaux, a Neolithic tomb in Frances Rhone Valley that points towards human sacrifices. Archaeologists have found skeletons of women. According to the findings, their heads were tied to their legs to force them to asphyxiate before they were buried alive.

Scientists have excavated multiple sites across Europe that suggest human sacrifice from the Neolithic era, similar to the site at Saint-Paul-TroisChateaux. Women were tied alive following the incapratemento method. Their heads were pulled to their backs and tied up with their legs. This method took at least a few hours to steal the lives of the women.

Two of the skeletons dug out from the site suggest ritualised murder. The other skeleton of the woman suggests natural death and burial. As per reports, the two women were younger. They were pressed against the ground with heavy stones. A paper published in Science Advances Journal states that multiple people died due to this ritual. The ritual was well-known and feared across most European countries for about 2,000 years.

The skeletons at the Saint-Paul-Trois-Chateaux tomb were oriented toward the solstices. As per the study, the sacrifices were for agricultural purposes. The specific arrangement [of the bodies] stacked atop each other and entwined with fragments of grindstones  implies a more forceful and deliberate placement, strongly suggesting that their demise likely occurred within the burial context, the team wrote.

Mesolithic rock carvings in the Addaura Cave, Italy, capture this form of human sacrifice. In another study of 20 skeletons excavated at 14 sites across the Czech Republic, Spain, and Germany, similar evidence was found. The sites are from 5400 BCE to 3534 BCE. Among the victims, four were children. These skeletons were found at the site in Spain, Bobila Madurell Sud.

According to the team of archaeologists, This cultural phenomenon could have diversified in Central Europe and structured itself at different rates for almost two millennia before culminating in the late Middle Neolithic.

This type of brutal human sacrifice seems to be the depiction from only the Stone Age, yet, this cultural practice continued for many years. The Italian mafia uses this incaprettamento murder method to punish their enemies. In a piece of horrific news from 2019, a water utility company in England found nearly 3000-year old 24 skeletons that showed signs of human sacrifice.
Zaq Landsburg, an artist from New York, bought his own land in a desert in Utah, USA. Then he created his own nation called the Republic of Zaqistan. The artist bought this land from eBay for 610 dollars, that is around Rs 50,000. Zaq Landsburg bought this 4-acre land in Utah. He announced this land to be his own sovereign nation. He has already created a national flag for the land and employed a robot sentry to guard the same. One will need a passport as well to enter the land. He issues passports worth $40 from his website as well. Zaq Landsburg bought the land in northwestern Box Elder County a decade ago. He said in an interview, The conceptual goal is I want it to become a real country. I mean, that goal is not going to happen. Its impossible, but going through the motions, (Im) trying to make that happen.

The harsh and desolate land has no paved road or any facilities. It is situated roughly 96 km away from the nearest town. He has a supply bunker and border patrol gate. Ones passport has to be stamped before entering the land, as Zaq has informed.

In an interview to a website called Recon Talk, Zaq said that he bought the land during difficult situations going on in the country politically. He took the initiative to create his own country as he felt he could run his own better than the politicians.

Building houses is not possible here as Zaqistan has no water supply. Zaq has invested around Rs 8 lakh for the lands betterment. He pays taxes to keep it legal. Some of the close friends of Zaq are the residents of Zaqistan. He took this initiative as an art project. Zaq, along with his friends, gather here every now and then to have fun and do art ventures.

As it is a desert, the weather conditions are not favourable here. During the day, the temperature spikes up; and in the night, temperatures drop. As an art project, Zaq is interested to see how he can push the boundaries to turn it into a sovereign state. Legitimacy is his primary goal. The motto of Zaqistan is, Something from nothing.
Retirement is a significant life transition for most people that often brings about a mix of emotions. Certain videos on social media are so heartwarming that they leave you smiling and a tad bit emotional too. Those are the videos that people often end up watching more than once. Just like this wonderful clip posted on Instagram that shows a Vande Bharat loco pilot who gets emotional during his retirement after serving 34 years at Bengaluru City Railway Station. The video will tug at your heartstrings.

In the now viral clip, the loco pilot can be seen operating the Vande Bharat and arriving at the Bengaluru station from Chennai. He can be seen sitting in his seat inside the train. As soon as the train reached the platform his family and friends stepped inside the train and welcomed the loco pilot with garlands, flowers, and gifts. The loco pilot gets emotional at this moment.

This heartwarming video was shared by a video creator RF Pavan on his Instagram page named @railfan_pavan. Sharing the video, the user wrote, Happy retired life Kishan Lal sir LP/MAIL/SBC. Thank you for your wonderful service in Indian Railways Sir, we are Proud of you, and may you have the best-retired life, you are one of the best Loco pilots in Bangalore sir, we will miss you on track, All the best sir. Kishan sir worked on 20608/20607 from SBC-MAS-SBC Vande Bharat Express for the last time.

Also Read: Watch: Man Hears Strange Sounds From A Pit Only To Find A Bear Inside

Watch the loco pilots emotional retirement video:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by RF PAVAN (@railfan_pavan)

Also Read: Woman Asks For Help After Losing Diamond From Her Wedding Ring In Cookie Batch

The video was shared a week ago and since then it has amassed thousands of likes and views. The posted short clips of Kishan Lals retirement celebration on Instagram soon went viral. With dance, music, loads of fun, and happy tears, Kishan Lals retirement celebration was just memorable. Many people took to the comments section of the post to share their good wishes to the loco pilot. Happy and healthy retirement life sir, wrote a person. Retire from control steering another life of steering wheel waiting to drive enjoy rest of life like a kings life, expressed a second. Wishing you a very happy retirement life sir, added a third.
Stanley Chen has confessed the viral video has seen him temporarily removed from the food-delivery platform.

An Uber Eats delivery worker claims he has been banned from the platform after it received word he delivered a customer's food order on horseback.

This week Stanley Chen was spotted riding a black horse down Oxford Street in Sydney's inner east adorned with his Uber Eats jacket and delivery backpack, with a video shared online by a passing pedestrian soon going viral. In the clip, which has now amassed millions of views, people can be seen stopping to take videos and laughing at the unusual scene on the busy shopping strip.

Now, Chen says he has been banned by Uber due to the stunt.

"Look at what just happened, I got banned! I can't believe this," he shared in a video on Thursday, displaying the correspondence from the company.

The Uber Eats horse stunt has ended with Stanley Chen being banned from working with the company. Source: TikTok

Uber sends horse rider clear message over stunt

Chen, who makes YouTube videos often involving subversive stunts, shared a screenshot of the message he received from Uber which explained it had received "concerning feedback" from someone he had delivered food to  pointing to the fact it was aware he had been "delivering orders on animal [sic]".

Uber notified Chen he was banned via the app. Source: TikTok

The message said Chen had been temporarily blocked while the company reviewed the situation.

However Chen jokingly clapped back arguing his horse Laylani is not an animal but is instead "a Queen" and should not be removed from the food-delivery platform. He urged others to contact Uber to push back against its decision.

"If you want to see me and Laylani do more Uber delivery orders go message [Uber] and tell them to unban me," he said.

Yahoo News has reached out to Chen for comment.

An investigation into the incident is commenced Uber telling NCA NewsWire on Thursday it prioritises safety on the platform.

"Theres no horsing around when it comes to safety on our platform," a Uber spokesperson said. Yahoo News has reached out to Uber for comment.

Yahoo News understands the suspension of Chen's account has now been lifted.

with NCA NewsWire

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
With the recent heavy rains, a portion of Saudi Arabias vast desert terrain between the holy cities of Mecca and Medina has experienced a stunning makeover. A plentiful supply of water has given the once dry and desolate countryside a new lease on life, causing it to blossom into vivid shades of green.

This drastic transformation, which is most visible in the western parts, is due to an infusion of extra water from rainfall, which has fed the parched soil and encouraged the growth of luxuriant flora.

After heavy rains, parts of Saudi Arabias desert near Mecca and Medina have turned green. This transformation, particularly in the West, is due to excess water, leading to the growth of grass and plants. Photos show camels grazing on fresh grass, and once arid areas are now vibrant with colour. This unusual sight has also been visible from NASA satellites, reads the post on Instagram.

Check the images here:

The post on social media also described how attention from outside of Earth has been drawn to the deserts remarkable greening. The caption mentioned that NASA satellites had also been able to see the strange sight. Photos taken after the rains reveal camels munching on new grass, a sight that is uncommon in these parched regions. There is now a lot of life in places that were previously barren of vegetation. The landscape of the desert is peppered with green spots that stand out sharply against the golden dunes.

The post on Instagram attracted a lot of attention and comments.

One user said, How exciting! Love all the extra rain. Another user quoted a verse from the bible and wrote, Wow, the Bible has prophesied this event. Indeed God knows the beginning and the end. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs. Isaiah 35:6-7 NIV.

A third user commented, They got their rain machine to do good. Well done. Plant more trees and you will have won the Race!!! While a fourth user exclaimed, The world is shifting and we are seeing beautiful things our eyes arent used to!.
A baker from the United States is hunting for a diamond from her engagement ring, which she suspects may have slipped into dough and been baked into a cookie sold at the local bakery in Kansas. Sis Sweets Cookies & Cafes owner posted a need for assistance in locating her $4,000 (More than Rs 3 lakh) diamond. Dawn Sis Monroe said that after baking cookies at her bakery on April 5, she realised the centre diamond of her engagement ringwhich she hasnt taken off in 36 yearswas missing.

The same day, Monroe posted on Facebook from her business page, saying, Bonus if you buy cookies today." My diamond is missing My heart is beyond broken. Its been on my hand for 36 years."

The baker said, If you happened to find it, I would forever be in debt if you would return it."

In a picture, Monroes hand was shown wearing a gold band with a hole where the diamond should be. The post went viral online, with hundreds of shares.

Monroe told ABC affiliate KMBC that the diamond dropped into a batch of chocolate chip, sugar, or peanut butter cookies.

I was crying, and all [my husband] could say was, You still have me, so that made it all better," Monroe said.

The baker wrote regarding the lost stone not just to ask for help, but also to suggest customers be cautious while nibbling into her sweets.

Mainly cause I didnt want anybody to break a tooth," Monroe told the news outlet.

Monroe assured everyone that she would definitely make it worth your while bringing it back" if they were to discover the diamond.

It is fairly normal to misplace or lose rings, or any other jewellery piece. However, some pieces are more than merely decorative accents; rather, they are connected to a particular person or situation and have a very meaningful position in life. However, how far will you go to get it back if you lose it? News18 reported an incident that happened last year wherein a US woman lost a ring that was inadvertently tossed out in the garbage.

Dennis Senibaldi, the director of Windham Department of Public Works, reportedly received a phone call from a town selectman putting him in contact with the resident. The ring was found and given to the woman because of the prompt response and hard work of the local sanitation staff.

But what really set this episode apart was not calling the authorities; rather, it was the fact that the sanitation staff had to go through 20 tonnes of garbage or around 18,100 kilogrammes.

According to the report, Dennis was certain that she could locate it since he has dealt with instances similar to hers in the past. Dennis told them where the trash may have gone after they got the search underway. Thanks to backdrop data and an effective camera, the ring was found amidst twenty tonnes of trash. It had torn out of its rubbish bag and was half smeared in red paint when it was found on the floor. Within two hours of the search beginning, the ring was located.
Canada has reduced its diplomatic personnel in New Delhi and other parts of the country, months after India expelled dozens of its diplomats, in what was described as a high-octane escalation between the two countries.

I can confirm that the Government of Canada has implemented some staff reductions across our network of missions in India. The decision to implement reductions across our network of missions in India was sadly necessary given the reduction of Canadian staff available to effectively manage and maintain in-country operations, a high commission official said.

Canada will continue to deliver core services to Canadians in India, including consular support and for trade and business development  so that the citizens of our two countries can continue to benefit from the longstanding ties between Canadians and Indians. We can also confirm that Canadas visa application centres in India are operating as normal, the official added.

Despite diplomatic tensions, the Canadian government says it welcomes Indian citizens for various purposes, including visits, work, study, or permanent residence. The decision to trim its staff in India comes months after Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly in October had said that 41 of Canadas 62 diplomats in India were removed, along with their dependents, weeks into the dispute over the slaying of a Sikh separatist in Canada. However, India maintained that the move was exercised to establish diplomatic parity.

The diplomatic discord began in September after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian government officials of involvement in the Surrey killing of Khalistan leader Hardeep Nijjar. In response, India outrightly rejected the claims and accused Ottawa of being complacent in anti-India activities within its territory. During testimony before a committee probing foreign interference in Canadian affairs, Trudeau, this week, reiterated concerns about the Nijjar case.

Read More: We Have Stood Up For Canadians: Justin Trudeau On Ottawas Stand On Nijjar Killing

Stressing his administrations resolve to ensure the rights and freedoms of anyone arriving in Canada, he slammed the previous Conservative government for close ties with the Indian government. Our government remains steadfast in ensuring that anyone coming to Canada enjoys the rights and freedoms of a Canadian citizen, Trudeau said, underscoring actions taken to address the Nijjar case as evidence of Canadas dedication to defending the rights and freedoms sought by many immigrating to the country.
The external affairs ministry on Friday advised all Indians against travelling to Iran or Israel until further notice in view of the security situation in the region. It also asked Indians residing there to get in touch with respective embassies and register themselves.

In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves, the external affairs ministry said in a statement.

Travel advisory for Iran and Israel: In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice.For any assistance, please contact the Embassy at: cons.tehran@mea.gov.in; +98-21-88755103-5; +989128109115 India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) April 12, 2024

They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum, it further added.

*IMPORTANT ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS IN ISRAEL*Link: https://t.co/OEsz3oUtBJ pic.twitter.com/vKruzy3uuJ  India in Israel (@indemtel) April 12, 2024

The French government also warned French nationals against travelling to Iran, Israel, Lebanon or the Palestinian territories, after the US embassy in Israel announced it was restricting the movements of its diplomats over security fears. German airline Lufthansa extended a temporary suspension of flights to and from Tehran until Saturday.

A report by US-based broadcaster CBS News said that Iran will attack Israel as soon as Friday with more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles targeting its military resources.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said late Thursday he had received phone calls from German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock as well as her British and Australian counterparts.

In a post on X, the Iranian minister said he had told them that when the Zionist regime breaches the immunity of diplomatic persons and places and the UN Security Council fails to condemn it, legitimate defence is a necessity.

He added that Iran does not seek to expand the scope of the war.

An official close to the Iranian leadership told US newspaper The Wall Street Journal that no final decision has been made but plans to attack are being drawn up. The person said Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini is surveying the attack plans.

The strike plans are in front of the Supreme Leader and he is still weighing the political risk, the aforementioned person said.

Iran has vowed retaliation after an Israeli strike that killed seven members of Tehrans elite Revolutionary Guards, including two generals, in Syria earlier this month.

Among the dead were generals Mohammad Reza Zahedi and Mohammad Hadi Haji Rahimi, both senior commanders in the Quds Force, the IRGCs foreign operations arm.

Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei again warned Israel Wednesday that it will be punished for a Damascus air strike that killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of them generals.

The evil regime made a mistake in this regard. It must be punished and will be punished, Khamenei said in a televised speech after Eid al-Adha prayers in Tehran.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly riposted with a Persian-language statement on social media site X.

If Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack Iran, he said.

Germany and Russia have asked both nations to exercise restraint.

(with additional inputs from AFP)
India has stepped up its outreach to students in the United States, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday in response to the increasing deaths of Indian students in a series of unfortunate incidents in the first three months of this year.

Addressing a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted the recent death of Indian students, saying the embassy and consulates have reached out and have extended all possible help. Since January there are some ten-odd students who have passed away, Jaiswal said during a press conference.

Jaiswal said that a probe is underway in the cases linked to the law and order issue. Such cases have been appropriately taken up with the US authorities to seek justice, he added. Our consulates and mission in the US, they have strengthened our student outreach that they convey to the students how they can take care of themselves and what should be done, he said in response to a question on safety of Indian students.

This comes as 10 Indian students have died in 2024 alone including, 25-year-old Mohammed Abdul Arfath, who was found dead in Cleveland, Ohio on Tuesday. Indian diaspora body in the US has asked both government and private entities to work towards addressing the alarming rise in the deaths of Indian-origin students in the country. This request comes in the wake of a series of unfortunate incidents involving Indian students in the country that have garnered attention lately.

The causes of increasing incidents involving Indian students range from suspicious shootings/kidnapping, environmental deaths due to lack of safety knowledge (monoxide poisoning, hypothermia), mental issues suicides, and violent crimes, according to an analysis done by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS).
In a gruesome incident, a poverty-stricken man allegedly axed to death his wife and seven minor children in the Punjab province of Pakistan on Thursday, police said.

Sajjad Khokhar, a labourer by profession, attacked his wife Kausar, 42, and seven children  four daughters and three sons, aged between eight months and 10 years  with an axe killing them on the spot in Alipur, Muzaffargarh district, some 350 km from here.

Police said the accused was mentally disturbed over financial issues and he often had quarrels with his wife.

The man has been arrested and a case registered against him. The suspect confessed to his crime claiming that he had taken this extreme step as he could not feed his children any more, the police said.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed her grief over the killing of innocent children and sought a report from the Inspector General of Police.
The external affairs ministry said it has seen reports of the Taliban Justice Ministry taking steps to restore property to displaced members of the Hindu and Sikh communities and said it is a positive development.

We have seen reports on this issue. If the Taliban Administration has decided to restore property rights to their citizens belonging to Afghan Hindu and Sikh community, we see this as a positive development, the ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

The news of restoration of properties of displaced members of the Hindu and Sikh communities was first reported by The Hindu, which cited a senior Taliban official.

The report named the official as Suhail Shaheen, head of the political office of the Taliban.

The report said that Taliban has set up a commission to ensure return of Hindu and Sikh families who have played a historic role in the Afghan economy.

A commission chaired by the Minister of Justice has been established to return to their owners all properties which had been usurped by warlords during the former regime, Shaheen was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

Shaheen also drew attention to the return of Narender Singh Khalsa, a former member of the parliament of Afghanistan. The parliament was dissolved following the terrorist groups takeover the nation in 2021 following the withdrawal of the American forces.

Many Sikhs and Hindus left Afghanistan following the takeover of Taliban fearing they will be targeted for their faith and beliefs. But Hindus and Sikhs were also targeted by fighters of the Islamic State  Khorasan Province (ISKP) who soon after US withdrawal positioned itself as a challenger to the Taliban.

In 2022, it launched a series of ferocious attacks on Hindus and Sikhs, targeting a gurdwara on one occasion, forcing the Sikhs living there to bring the last two swaroops of the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul to New Delhi in January 2023.

The Hindu and Sikh communities, historically present in Afghanistan, make up about 1% of its population. Their displacement began in the late 1970s and 1980s amidst political upheaval and the Soviet occupation. The rise of the Taliban and ongoing conflict led to further exodus, reducing their numbers drastically.

(with inputs from Abhishek Jha)
Prince William was spotted with his mother-in-law Carole Middleton at a pub in Norfolk as his wife Kate Middleton recovers from cancer. Daily Mail columnist Richard Eden said a patron of the pub told him that it William entered the pub without much fanfare.

A patron tells me: It was all very low-key, with no great fanfare. He just walked in and through the pub. He appeared to be with Carole Middleton he wrote for the Daily Mail in his column for the newspaper on Wednesday.

Carole Middleton, Prince Williams mother-in-law, is said to have been staying with the couple over Easter. In a separate column, Eden praised Kate Middletons parents Carole Middleton and Michael Middleton for the heroic support of William and Kate Middleton as Kate battles cancer.

Kate Middleton in a video last month revealed she was diagnosed with cancer.

Prince William and Prince George at Villa Park. Love to see it. #AVFC pic.twitter.com/wnnOuE9fUp Emily Hewertson (@emilyhewertson) April 11, 2024

Michael and Carole have been living with the Prince and Princess of Wales at Anmer Hall, their retreat on the Sandringham Estate.

Not only can they help look after the children, George, ten, Charlotte, eight, and Louis, five, but they will doubtless provide personal reassurance for their daughter. Catherines parents are just as important to the future of the Monarchy as the Windsors themselves  and, I believe, deserve some formal recognition for their work, he further added.

Meanwhile, Prince William and his ten-year-old son Prince George were seen spending quality father-son bonding time at the Europa Conference League game between Aston Villa and French side Lille on Thursday (local time) in Londons Villa Park stadium.

Prince William is an avid fan of the London side and cheered on as the team defeated its French opponents in 2-1 win in the first leg of the tie.
Russia on Friday summoned the French ambassador to Moscow following unacceptable comments by French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, the Russian foreign ministry said.

Sejourne on Monday said that France had no interest in talking to the Kremlin, a few days after a telephone conversation between Russian and French army ministers ended in divergent accounts.

French ambassador Pierre Levy was informed about the unacceptable character of such statements, which have nothing to do with reality, the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement, denouncing a deliberate act that aimed to undermine the possibility of any dialogue between the two countries.

A French diplomatic source told AFP on Friday: The Russian ministry, as usual, does not accept that we correct its lies.

The minister recalled the reality of the exchanges and the Russian authorities attempt at manipulation following the call from the armed forces minister.

It is the latest in series of spats between the two countries, whose relations have deteriorated since the start of the year, against the backdrop of the conflict in Ukraine.

After a conversation between the two countries defence ministers on April 3, Russia said it hoped that the French secret services were not involved in the Moscow concert hall attack claimed by Islamic State group, which killed 144 people on March 22.

France had initiated the meeting in a bid to pass on useful information to Russia about the attack.

French president Emmanuel Macron reacted angrily to the Russian suggestion, denouncing baroque and threatening comments.

In January, Russia claimed to have killed 60 French mercenaries in Kharkiv, in northeast Ukraine, while Paris denounced a coordinated manoeuvre of disinformation emanating from Moscow.

Russia also announced that it had summoned Slovenian ambassador Darja Bavdaz Kuret on Friday to notify her of the expulsion of a Slovenian diplomat in return for a similar decision taken by Ljubljana in March against a Russian representative.

On Thursday, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that it had done the same with Austrian ambassador Werner Almhofer following the expulsion of two Russian diplomats by Vienna. Moscow expelled an Austrian diplomat in response.
The British parents of a baby who died after suffering deadly physical abuse in 2017 have been jailed, UK police said this week. In a police investigation spanning more than six years, officers worked tirelessly to uncover who was responsible for causing 40 bone fractures to month-old Ollie Davis  including a broken neck which caused his death in October 2017.

On Wednesday, his father, Michael Davis, was sentenced to life behind bars after being convicted of his murder in a trial ending last month. He was also convicted of two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and has been ordered to serve a minimum of 22 years in prison. Ollies mother, Kayleigh Driver, was sentenced to a total of seven years after being found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child and causing or allowing a child to suffer serious physical harm.

 The parents of a baby who died after suffering catastrophic physical abuse have been jailed.Michael Davis  Life ImprisonmentKayleigh Driver  7 Years  https://t.co/18DC96045O pic.twitter.com/c2W7hQE627  Leicestershire Police (@leicspolice) April 10, 2024

Sickening posts

Sickening Facebook posts of the pair making wedding plans have been grabbing headlines in UK media. Happy 1 year and 4 months to my man I love u with all my heart and I wouldnt change u for the world I love you, Kayleigh wrote in a December 2017 post on Facebook, according to Daily Mail. Days later, she posted: im so in love with my man cant wait to marry him next year i love you Michael James Davis. Davis replied to her, posting: wh same baby and I love you too. In another 2017 New Year post, Driver posted that she had had a very happy but tought year. Mine and Michael James Davis lost our baby boy as he grew his angel wings on 21st october but we will never forget him, she wrote.

Ensuring justice for Ollie and his wider family has been the driving force behind the substantial and complex police investigation run by specialist detectives working in the East Midlands Special Operation Unit (EMSOU) Murder Investigation Team, the Leicestershire police said. Davis, now aged 29 and Driver, now aged 31, both of Carlisle Street, Leicester, were initially arrested by police on October 27, 2017 after a post-mortem examination revealed Ollie had died from the delayed effects of a broken neck, believed to have occurred up to eight days before his death. The injury had led to the compression of the spinal cord which had caused him to stop breathing.

40 bone fractures

It was also revealed he had 40 bone fractures  including a fractured skull, collar bone, breaks to joints in both arms and legs and 23 rib fractures, according to police. The detailed investigation, which drew upon the expertise of many medical professionals, was able to establish the injuries were non-accidental and must have been caused by serious physical abuse. Throughout the investigation and subsequent trial both parents denied knowing what had happened to Ollie, police said. Speaking after the sentencing, Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Mark Parish, said: At the heart of this complex investigation has always been the strive to get justice for Ollie.

Ollie was a newborn baby who relied on his parents for everything he needed and it was their duty to love and protect him. Instead, he was let down in the most horrendous way imaginable. Due to the amount of the injuries Ollie suffered and medical expertise needed to examine those injuries, has taken more than six years for this investigation to come to court and for Ollies parents to be held accountable for his death. During this extremely difficult time, Ollies wider family have had to deal with so many emotions but throughout they have remained not only co-operative of the investigation but extremely supportive and I want to thank them for this. I hope todays sentencing will now allow them to start to come to terms with what has been a truly unbearable time.
The European Parliament gave the Pact on Migration and Asylum the greenlight on 10 April - a comprehensive set of rules establishing a common asylum system that builds upon previous reforms.

The narrowly-approved measures aim to improve border protection, enhance cooperation on asylum and monitor the reception of migrants and their relocation.

While the European Commission hailed the landmark pact as a fair agreement grounded in EU values, some member states and MEPs from across the political spectrum criticised the deal.

Approving lawmakers described it as a necessary move, however, many Green and left-wing MEPs said the package panders to right-wing populists.

The reform requires 'mandatory solidarity' to ensure all countries, regardless of their size and location, help alleviate the pressure that illegal migrant landings place on southern Europe, this includes resettlement and streamlined bureaucracy at national borders.

Germany described the deal as a 'historic, indispensable step' for the European Union. Poland, Hungary and France's National Rally, on the other hand, voiced their dissatisfaction with the pact arguing it goes against national sovereignty. Meanwhile, NGOs and activists stated it does not go far enough to protect people's lives and human rights.

The pact's approval comes just weeks before the European elections on 6-9 June where it is expected to play a key role, but first, member states are scheduled to vote on the proposal on 29 April. If a qualified majority is reached, it will be adopted.

Euronews Correspondent Vincenzo Genovese sat down with the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, to discuss opposition to the agreement and why Brussels maintains the deal will enhance the EU's ability to respond to migration challenges more effectively.

To watch this episode of the Global Conversation, click on the video in the media player above or read the full interview below.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: The European Parliament has just approved the pact on migration and asylum. What does it mean for the EU's migration policy?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: It means a lot. It's a huge, huge achievement: it is the first time that we have come to a common, comprehensive European approach towards migration and asylum. So that means also that we have rebuilt trust between member states but also between the Council and Parliament.

So we are much, much stronger, when it comes to migration and asylum, both in protecting our borders and better protecting the fundamental rights of asylum seekers and the vulnerable ones.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: Can you ensure that human rights will not be violated, for example, by unjustified detentions or returns of migrant people to not safe third countries?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: Yes, I can, because this is very, very clear in the legislation that we are actually strengthening the protection of the fundamental rights of asylum seekers, the right to apply for asylum and specific safeguards for the vulnerable ones.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: One of the elements is the solidarity mechanism. However, the prime ministers of Poland and Hungary reacted suggesting they will not apply the solidarity mechanism in their countries. What happens if they won't?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: I must say that I am pretty convinced that member states will implement the pact now, quite quickly. They seem to be quite eager to do the implementation and I'm convinced that they will also apply it.

Ylva Johansson, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Euronews Correspondent Vincenzo Genovese - Euronews

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: But concretely, what happens if they don't in terms of tools that the Commission has to prevent this?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: Well, the Commission has the tools it has in all legislative processes and we can use infringement. But I must say, again, I don't think that will happen. So those who say 'We will not do mandatory relocation' are talking about something else, because that is not what's in the pact.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: The 'solidarity pool' foresees 30,000 migration relocations per year (those who irregularly enter the EU). Last year, Frontex reported more than 380,000 irregular crossings. So don't you fear this is a drop in the bucket?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: No, this is huge. I mean, when we, for example, did relocation after the fire in Moria, if you remember, a few years ago, there was a huge relocation exercise that took place, especially with unaccompanied minors for many years. We relocated 5,000. So 30,000 every year is really huge.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: 2023 has been the deadliest year in the Mediterranean Sea since 2017. More than 3,000 migrant people died. How can the pact change this, given that there is no European search and rescue mission in it?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: Fighting the smugglers is the most important part, of making sure that we do not see this tragic loss of life. And that's why I initiated this global alliance to fight migrant smuggling in November last year. And that's why I presented new legislation in this area.

The other important thing we need to do is to step up on legal migration. We are an ageing society in Europe. We need migrants, but they have to come in an orderly way.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: But once the migrant people are on the boats, why not rescue them?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: Of course, they should be rescued if they are in distress. And this is also what's happening. But we also know that even though the rescue operations are growing more and more, we still see a lot of lost lives. Because when you are in a boat, in these weather conditions, there is a huge, huge risk. And that's why we have to prevent these departures in the first place.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: Also speaking about the Mediterranean Sea, the memorandum with Tunisia and the agreement with Egypt are part of the external dimension of EU migration policy. How can we ensure that human rights are respected in these countries?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: Well, we do make sure that EU money and what we are engaging in never violates any human rights. And we have great scrutiny of that. We cannot be sure that what happens outside what we are engaged in, could happen in the country.

We know that we have the neighbours that we have, and we have to work with them to try to improve things. And we can't wait until all problems are solved in a country, because we have to work with them also to help to solve the challenges that they are facing.

The EU's money and the projects that we are involved in, we have very tough scrutiny on how we use our money and what kind of projects we are involved in.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: Since 2017, the EU has spent 59 million to finance border and migration management in Libya. But the Libyan Coast Guard has a track record of human rights violations, last week it shot towards a European NGO that was carrying out a rescue operation and was not the first time. So do you consider the cooperation with Libya a failure, or not?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: The cooperation with Libya is difficult. We have to say that. And we have strong views, for example, when it comes to these detention centres that are awful. Some of those are really in unacceptable conditions.

So where we are rescuing refugees out of Libya, taking them in this emergency transit mechanism to safer countries, where they can be relocated to member states or other third countries, or where we are also supporting, via IOM, the voluntary return of migrants out of Libya. We also need to support them to do the search and rescue, so that people will not lose their lives in the Mediterranean.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: Do you mean search rescue carried by Libyan coast guards?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: Well, yes. They are also the ones who had to do the search or rescue. But then we are criticising what happened with people afterwards because, in these centres that they are usually being brought to, we know that the conditions are very dire.

And I just said unacceptable. That's why we are calling on the Libyans to change this, close these centres and stop the arbitrary detention of migrants in these centres.

Vincenzo Genovese, Euronews: An EU member state, Italy, is externalising the processing of some asylum requests to Albania, which is a non-EU country. Is this the right way to go?

Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs: The plan is to take people that are being rescued in international waters, not in Italian waters, and to disembark them in the centre in Albania, where their asylum applications if they apply for asylum, will be processed by Italian authorities according to Italian law.

And if they have the right to asylum, they will be brought to Italy. So this is the plan. So let's see how this will work. But I think it's a very specific path for Italy.

If backed by the European Council the pact will come into force in 2026.
An Indian-origin former manager of a Post Office in England wrongly jailed while pregnant has rejected the apology of a former boss of the government-owned entity during an ongoing public inquiry into the accounting scandal.

Seema Misra, now 47, had her conviction quashed in April 2021 as the Court of Appeal ruled that she had been wrongly imprisoned over 12 years ago after being accused of stealing GBP 75,000 from her Post Office branch in Surrey where she was the sub-postmistress.

During Thursdays hearings for the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry in London, former Post Office Managing Director David Smith apologised for a congratulatory email he sent after Misras conviction. It was intended to be a congratulatory email to the team, knowing that they had worked hard on the case, Smith said in his written evidence to the inquiry.

However, knowing what I do now, it is evident that my email would have caused Seema Misra and her family substantial distress to read and I would like to apologise for that Even if this had been a correct conviction, I would never think that it was brilliant news for a pregnant woman to go to prison and I am hugely apologetic that my email can be read as such, he said. However, seeing this email in the light of what I know now, I understand the anger and the upset that it will have caused and sincerely apologise for that, he added.

But, speaking to reporters later, Misra rejected the apology which comes many years after her ordeal. I was eight weeks pregnant they need to apologise to my youngest son. It was terrible. I havent accepted the apologies, Misra told the BBC.

We had my conviction overturned, nobody came at that time to apologise. And now they just suddenly realised that when they have to appear in a public inquiry, they have to apologise, she said. Misra was sent to Bronzefield prison in south-east England and served four-and-a-half months, later giving birth to her second son wearing an electronic tag.

Smith told the inquiry that Misra had been used as a test case and the success of the case led to more confidence in the faulty Horizon IT accounting system. How can they do a test on a human being? Im a living creature. I heard that my case had been used as a test case before. But hearing it again and again, its just annoying. It makes me more and more angry, to be honest, Misra told Sky News concerning his evidence.

The UK government, which formally owns Post Office Ltd, has paid out millions in compensation to hundreds of sub-postmasters many of them of Indian heritage impacted by the faulty Horizon software. Earlier this year, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged action in the historic scandal which wrongly accused sub-postmasters of fraud.

Last month, a new law tabled in Parliament introduced the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill, a blanket exoneration to quash convictions brought about by erroneous Horizon evidence. A public inquiry in the case, underway in a phased manner, is expected to conclude in July.

The controversial Horizon system, developed by the Japanese company Fujitsu, was first rolled out in 1999 to some post offices for variable tasks, including accounting and stocktaking. However, it appeared to have significant bugs, which could cause the system to misreport, sometimes involving large sums as in the case of these sub-postmasters.
The UNs migration chief urged countries Friday to boost humanitarian support for Ukraine amid worrying signs of donor fatigue, as she wrapped up her first visit to the war-torn country since taking office.

More than two years into Russias full-scale invasion of its neighbour, the humanitarian needs are huge, Amy Pope told AFP.

Over 14 million Ukrainians, or around 40 percent of the population, need aid, including nearly four million who have been displaced within the country.

Around six million others have fled Ukraine and are refugees elsewhere.

Ordinary Ukrainians are doing a lot. People are bonding together, Pope said in a telephone interview as she completed a five-day visit.

But she said she had acutely felt the anxiety in the country over signs that international solidarity is waning.

The United Nations overall says it needs $4.2 billion this year to provide humanitarian aid in Ukraine and to refugees who have fled, but fears a likely shortfall as the Gaza war dominates global attention.

Everybody is worried about the humanitarian community walking away, Pope said.

There is a lot of anxiety about dwindling aid.

And she acknowledged that they were right to worry.

The message from donors is to prepare for cuts, she said.

Pope hailed that the European Union came through recently with a large aid package for Ukraine, but she cautioned that the big questions are around what the US does.

US President Joe Biden has proposed a package of $60 billion for Ukraine, including a large humanitarian assistance component, but it remains blocked by the Republicans in Congress.

Pope urged donor countries to stay the course in assisting Ukraine.

If we do not address humanitarian needs now, the problems we will face in the future will be so much greater and more costly  financially and in terms of human suffering, she cautioned.

Pope, who met with top officials including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during her trip, said they had voiced concerns that without more assistance, the displacement crisis could become permanent, with dire consequences for the economy.

And she said the governors of Odessa And Mykolayiv had spoken to her about the urgent need for more bomb shelters in schools to get children back to the classroom.

Pope also highlighted the wisdom of acting early to mitigate the impacts of expected continued Russian attacks on Ukraines infrastructure, by supplying generators and fuel ahead of next winter.

Supporting economic survival now will mean fewer people need to leave their home or country, there will be fewer long-term entrenched problems, and Ukrainians will have greater hope and dignity as they rebuild their lives and country for the future, she said.
The United States said Friday it was sending reinforcements to the Middle East amid growing fear that Iran could soon launch an attack on Israel.

We are moving additional assets to the region to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces, said a US defence official was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.

The United States has dispatched the aircraft carrier USS Dwight Eisenhower, equipped to intercept missiles and drones launched by Iran, northward through the Red Sea towards Israel in an apparent move to show deterrence from the Biden administration, according to a Times of Israel report.

Israel braced for an attack by Iran or its proxies as warnings grew of retaliation for the killing last week of a senior officer in Irans embassy in Damascus.

Countries including India, France, Poland and Russia have warned their citizens against travel to the region, already on edge over the war in Gaza, now in its seventh month. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the threat from Iran was real and viable.

The Israeli military said it had not issued fresh instructions to civilians, but asked people to remain vigilant.

Over the past day, the military has conducted a situational assessment and approved plans for a range of scenarios following reports and statements on an Iranian attack, chief military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement on Friday.

Israels foreign ministry did not comment on reports that some Israeli diplomatic missions had been partially evacuated and security stepped up.

The revenge will come, wrote Israels largest daily newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth. For the moment, the premise is that it will be very soon, in the next few days.

Israel did not claim responsibility for the airstrike on April 1 that killed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps overseas Quds Force, and six other officers as they attended a meeting in the Damascus embassy compound.

But Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said Israel must be punished and shall be for an operation he said was equivalent to an attack on Iranian soil.

Its going to be very difficult for Iran not to retaliate, said Raz Zimmt, senior researcher at Israels Institute for National Security Studies.

(With agency inputs)
The Western countries have urged restraint in the Middle East as they await the looming threat of an Iranian attack on Israel, in response to the April 1 airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus, which killed a top Iranian general and six other Iranian military officers.

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack but Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei this week said the Jewish country must be punished and it shall be, saying it was tantamount to an attack on Iranian soil. Israels military in response asserted that it is prepared to defend the country and strike back if Iran retaliates for a deadly airstrike on the Iranian Consulate in Syria.

Read More: Evil Regime Made A Mistake: Israel Responds to Iranian Supreme Leaders Renewed Threat

Read More: Whoever Harms Us: Netanyahu Says Israel Preparing For Scenarios Beyond Gaza Amid Iran Threat

High alert

Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip since an unprecedented attack by the Palestinian militant group against Israel on October 7. It has also stepped up strikes against Iranian personnel and allies in Syria and Lebanon. It has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah since the start of the latest Gaza conflict. Several countries, including the US, are on high alert amid the growing tensions in the region which were already high due to the Gaza war.

Washington said on Thursday it had restricted its employees in Israel and their family members from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beer Sheva areas.Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva areas until further notice, the US embassy said in a security alert, on its website on Thursday. US government personnel are authorised to transit between these three areas for personal travel.

Meanwhile in Europe

The German airline Lufthansa, one of only two Western carriers flying to Tehran, extended a suspension of its flights to the Iranian capital and Russia warned against travel to the Middle East. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called on her Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian to urge maximum restraint to avoid further escalation.

On Friday, France warned its citizens to imperatively refrain from travel in the coming days to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories. Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne issued the recommendation after Iran threatened reprisals over an Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria. As the West fears an escalation of violence in the Middle East, a report published by Reuters said that Tehran has signalled to Washington that it will respond to Israels attack on its Syrian embassy in a way that aims to avoid major escalation.

Irans Message to US

Tehrans message to Washington was conveyed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, during a visit on Sunday to the Gulf Arab state of Oman, which has often acted as an intermediary between the two, the report said citing Iranian sources. However, other sources, according to the report, did not rule out the possibility that members of the Iran-backed Axis of Resistance could attack Israel at any moment  an option analysts have flagged as one possible means of reprisal.

According to the report, Amirabdollahian, in his Oman meetings, signalled Tehrans willingness to de-escalate on condition demands are met, including a permanent Gaza ceasefire  something Israel has ruled out as it seeks to crush Hamas. Iran also sought assurances that the United States would not get involved in the event of a controlled attack on Israel by Iran  a demand which the United States rejected in a response delivered via Oman, the report added.

(With agency inputs)
The White House on Friday said that Irans threats of reprisals against Israel for killing two Iranian generals in a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria this month remain real.

We still deem the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told journalists. Kirby did not confirm reports of US official considering an imminent Iranian attack, as reported by some news outlets. He also did not clarify if the US will help shoot down an Iranian missiles fired at Israel.

Were watching this very, very closely. (Well make sure the Israelis) have what they need and that theyre able to defend themselves, Kirby was quoted as saying. Referring to US forces in West Asia he said the administration will ensure that they are properly prepared. The US has thousands of troops in West Asia.

The US President Joe Biden on Wednesday warned that Iran is threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel and pledged ironclad support for Washingtons top regional ally despite differences between him and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the latters approach towards the war in Gaza.

Despite the differences, the US and Israel appear to be united as Iran is planning imminent attacks. Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant said Friday that Israel and the United States were shoulder to shoulder in facing the threat from Iran after holding an important meeting with US Central Command chief Michael Kurilla.

Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true  they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties, Gallant said.

We stand shoulder to shoulder. We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond, he further added.

Meanwhile, India and France recommended on Friday that their citizens avoid travelling to the region.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel is keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas, amid concern that Iran was preparing to strike Israel in retaliation for the drone killing of senior Iranian commanders.

Netanyahu made his comments as Israeli troops and warplanes started an operation in central Gaza which the military said was aimed at destroying infrastructure of armed Palestinian groups. Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively, he said in comments released by his office following a visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel.

We are in challenging times. We are in the midst of the war in Gaza, which is continuing at full force, even as we are continuing our relentless efforts to return our hostages. we are also prepared for scenarios involving challenges in other arenas, he added.

PM Netanyahu: We have determined a simple rule: Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively.The people of Israel and I rely on you; may we all have great success. pic.twitter.com/TkvKsg3UQD  Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) April 11, 2024

Read More: Evil Regime Made A Mistake: Israel Responds to Iranian Supreme Leaders Renewed Threat

Israel on alert

Israel has been bracing for possible Iranian retaliation for the killing of a senior general and six other Iranian officers in an airstrike on the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus on April 1. Israel has not said it was responsible but Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said on Wednesday Israel must be punished and it shall be for the attack.

Israels chief military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said civilians were not being told to make any special preparations but added Israel was highly prepared for a range of scenarios. Most Israeli troops have been pulled out of Gaza, in preparation for an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where more than 1 million Palestinians are sheltering, but fighting has continued in various areas of the enclave.

Israeli strikes from air, ground and sea, which so far have destroyed several buildings including two mosques, were almost non-stop, they said. It was as if the occupation army was launching a new war, Raouf Abed, 20, said via chat app from Deir Al-Balah to the south of Al-Nuseirat refugee camp. The explosions were non-stop, the sounds came from different directions, he said.

Every time we hope there will be a ceasefire, Israel escalates the aggression, as if they are trying to pressure Hamas by hitting on us, the civilians, he said. The fighting in Gaza, now in its seventh month, has overshadowed the increasingly tense situation further north where Israeli troops have engaged in daily exchanges of fire with Hezbollah militia fighters across the border in Lebanon.

Hezbollah targets

On Thursday, the military said Israeli jets hit Hezbollah military targets in the areas of Meiss el Jabal, Yarine, and Khiam, as well as a Hezbollah observation post in the area of Marwahin and another compound in Al-Dahira in southern Lebanon. The Iranian-backed militia, which is thought to have a large arsenal of missiles, has long been considered to be one of the most likely forces that Tehran could use against Israel but so far, both sides have held back from a full scale confrontation. Meanwhile, US Central Command chief Michael Kurilla was in Israel on Thursday to discuss the situation with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

We warned Iran, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told a briefing without elaborating. The US embassy in Israel also announced it was restricting the movements of its diplomats over security fears, saying that out of an abundance of caution staffers and their family could not undertake personal travel outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheeva areas until further notice. On the diplomatic front, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has asked Chinas foreign minister as well as top diplomats from Turkey, Saudi Arabia and European nations to use their influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel.

(With agency inputs)
The Republican-led Tennessee Legislature has overwhelmingly voted to send GOP Gov. Bill Lee a proposal that would ban marriage between first cousins. The House cast a 75-2 vote Thursday on the bill after the Senate previously approved it without any opposition. But a particularly vocal opponent, Republican Rep. Gino Bulso, took up most of the debate time, as he argued for an amendment to allow first-cousin marriages if the couple first seeks counseling from a genetic counselor, the AP reports.

In a previous committee hearing, Bulso lightheartedly shared a story about how his grandparents were first cousins who came to the US from Italy in the 1920s, then traveled from Ohio to Tennessee to get married. He and other lawmakers laughed, and Bulso voted for the bill in that committee. Then during Thursday's floor debate, the attorney argued that the risk of married cousins having a child with birth defects does not exist for gay couples. He contended there is no compelling government interest to bar same-sex cousins from getting married, saying that would run afoul of the US Supreme Court's gay marriage decision.

He also couched his argument by saying that he thought the Supreme Court decision on gay marriage was "grievously wrong"; Bulso has supported legislation aimed at the LGBTQ community. That includes a bill he is sponsoring that would largely ban pride flags in public school classrooms, which civil liberties advocates have contended runs afoul of the US Constitution. "The question is, is there a public health issue with a male marrying a male first cousin?" Bulso said. "And I think the answer is no." Ultimately, lawmakers voted down Bulso's amendment and approved the ban proposed by Democratic Rep. Darren Jernigan. "I hope it's safe to say that in 2024, we can close this loophole," Jernigan said. He assured Bulso that his bill does not violate the gay marriage ruling.

(More Tennessee stories.)
President Biden reinforced the US defense commitment to Pacific allies on Thursday as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House. The meeting took place against a backdrop of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific, the AP reports, including persistent skirmishes between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea. The US and the Philippines have had a mutual treaty in place for more than 70 years.

"The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad," Biden said as the leaders began three-way talks. "As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels, or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty." Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan. The "gray-zone" harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels, and ramming Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim, per the AP.

The White House billed the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines as a potent response to China's attempts at "intimidation" and a message that China is "the outlier in the neighborhood," according to an administration official. On Wednesday, Biden held one-on-one talks with Kishida and feted the Japanese premier with a glitzy state dinner at the White House. Biden also hosted Marcos, the son and namesake of his country's former dictator, for a private meeting at the White House ahead of the three-way talks. "Today's summit is an opportunity to define the future that we want, and how we intend to achieve it together," Marcos said.

(More President Biden stories.)
It was, as the Los Angeles Times reports, "a 'Where were you?' moment." While later generations would vividly recall the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, those a bit older remember the afternoon of June 17, 1994, when OJ Simpson, in the backseat of a white Ford Bronco, reportedly with a gun to his head, led police on a slow-speed pursuit through Los Angeles, driven by friend Al "AC" Cowlings. With Simpson's death , people can't help but harken back to that day, nearly 30 years ago, when Simpson was to surrender to charges of murdering ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. Quickly labeled a fugitive, Simpson delayed arraignment for hours until landing at his home in Brentwood, where he was taken into custody shortly before 9pm.

CNN and NBC interrupted coverage to broadcast the chase live. (Watch CNN's coverage here.) Though the event shouldn't have been globally or even nationally significant, it involved one of the most famous people in America, wanted for double murder. Cowlings had alerted police to Simpson's condition and asked them to back off, resulting in what was essentially a parade on LA freeways. For Simpson, a former star running back, it was "the most-watched run of his life," reports CBS Sports. Some 95 million people watched the chase unfold, more than tuned in to any Super Bowl in the 1990s. It's a fact some believe "helped make the Simpson trial a national obsession," per the Times.

The chase "ushered in the coming era of the 24-hour cable news cycle" and kicked off "a 16-month span of nonstop coverage of Simpson's murder trial that would ultimately end in his polarizing acquittal," per the Washington Post. It also made that 1993 Ford Bronco an icon, pushing sales of the vehicle upwards, per SlashGear. The Bronco belonged to Cowlings, though Simpson had an identical version that had been seized by police. Cowlings' Bronco was later sold to an associate for $200,000, per USA Today. It's now kept at the Alcatraz East Crime Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, "next to Ted Bundy's Volkswagen Bug and John Dillinger's red Essex Terraplane," the outlet reports. (More OJ Simpson stories.)
Oakland officials have voted in favor of changing the name of the city's airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, despite San Francisco threatening a lawsuit over what it says is a trademark violation. The Board of Commissioners for the Port of Oakland voted unanimously Thursday to approve the name change and scheduled a second reading on the issue for May 9. The airport is currently called Oakland International Airport.

Oakland airport officials have said travelers unfamiliar with the region fly into San Francisco's airport even if their destination is closer to the Oakland airport across the Bay, the AP reports. Modifying the name to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport will change that, they say. The airport's three-letter code OAK would not change.
New York towns and villages that have post-Prohibition bans on alcohol sales would be forced to lift such restrictions under a bill moving through the state legislature. The bill, which is up for a state Senate vote after advancing out of a committee last week, would strike down a 1934 law passed right after Prohibition that allowed towns and cities to opt to stay dry, the AP reports. Many US communities fully or partially ban alcohol sales. Pennsylvania, for example, has about 675 that have some sort of restriction.

In the Empire State, only seven communities have complete booze bans, according to the New York State Liquor Authority. The largest, the western New York town of Caneadea, is home to about 2,000 people. The bill's sponsor argues that lifting restrictions will spur business growth and save those who live in such places from having to buy their booze elsewhere, allowing them to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner at local restaurants. "This ain't the Prohibition era any longer. We live in New York in 2024, and this thing is kind of silly," said state Sen. James Skoufis, a Democrat who chairs a legislative committee that most of the state alcohol laws pass through.

That sentiment resonates with Brittany Gerould, a general manager at the Dutch Village Restaurant in Clymer, a town of about 1,700 near the Pennsylvania border. If the bill becomes law, it would bring in "big profits" for the business, Gerould said. "We definitely lose some business because of it," she said of the alcohol sales ban. "We try to do wing nights, but of course we can't have alcohol. We aren't even open on Saturday nights because they were such a miss." Not everyone is on board. Philip Stockin, Caneadea's deputy town supervisor, said he's fine with the status quo, citing alcohol abuse as a major concern. "It gets frustrating when the state hands down mandates, it takes more and more control away from the locals," Stockin said.

(More alcohol sales stories.)
Iran may launch a serious strike against Israel in retaliation for the April 1 strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria as soon as Friday, US officials tell CBS News . As Israel braces for the assault, the US imposed travel restrictions on Americans in the country, per the Washington Post . Little is known of Tehran's plans, but experts fear a direct attack, especially one with significant casualties, could trigger wider war in the Middle East. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday Israel was "prepared ... both defensively and offensively" and would harm "whoever harms us."

But US officials tell CBS it would be hard for Israel to defend against a large-scale attack, potentially to include dozens of missiles and more than 100 drones. The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security warning to government employees and their families Thursday, saying to expect travel restrictions indefinitely. Americans are not to travel outside major cities, which are better protected by Israel's missile defense system. A US senior general is in Israel to help coordinate any response if appropriate, per CBS. One security expert tells the outlet a military asset might be targeted and the chance of an all-out war is real.

The US Embassy alert didn't name Iran and said travel restrictions came "out of an abundance of caution." Israel has not publicly claimed responsibility for the April 1 strike on the Iranian embassy in the Syrian capital of Damascus, said to have killed two senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and five other officers. Nonetheless, Iran vowed the country would be punished. US officials had no prior warning of the strike on the diplomatic compound, a location "traditionally exempted from hostilities," per the Washington Post. (More Israel stories.)
The House passed a bill Friday to reauthorize a controversial US government surveillance tool without including broad restrictions on how the FBI uses the program to search for Americans' data. The bill, approved 273-147, now goes to the Senate, where the Wall Street Journal reports that it is expected to pass. The program is set to expire on April 19 unless Congress acts.

Johnson's move: House Speaker Mike Johnson brought forward the revised proposal, which would reform and extend a section of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act known as Section 702 for a shortened period of two years, instead of the full five-year reauthorization first proposed, per the AP. Johnson correctly bet that the shorter timeline would sway GOP critics by pushing any future debate on the issue to the presidency of Donald Trump if he were to win back the White House in November. Republicans were split 126-88 on the vote, and Democrats were 147-59, per the New York Times.
A 60-year-old businessman from Tamaki Makaurau/Auckland has been jailed for his role in smuggling six tonnes of tobacco from Tonga.

Mosese Vakapuna imported 5982kg of loose-leaf tobacco, and evaded paying $10.3 million in duties and taxes on it.

Vakapuna, along with his company JM Store Limited, were convicted on 23 charges relating to defrauding Customs' revenue.

Vakapuna was sentenced to 28 months in prison at the Auckland District Court on Friday, while JM Store was fined $2300.
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With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

BYD's FANGCHENGBAO releases teaser photo of BAO 8 mass-produced model

On April 12, FANGCHENGBAO, the professional personalized brand under BYD, released the teaser photo of the BAO 8 model's mass-produced version, which is set to make its debut at the brand's spring product launch event on April 16.

Photo credit: BYD

SGMW's Baojun launches additions to Yep model's series

On April 12, SAIC-GM-Wuling's Baojun brand held a new product launch event, officially introducing several new editions to its Yep model series. Those additions include the 2024 Baojun Yep and the Baojun Yep Plus, both of which come with two trim levels. To be specific, the 2024 Baojun Yep features a price range of 80,800 yuan to 90,800 yuan, and the Baojun Yep Plus two variants are priced at 93,800 yuan and 103,800 yuan, respectively.

Changan NEVO A05, Q05 models' Zhenxiang editions hit market

On April 12, Changan Auto's new energy vehicle brand, NEVO, announced the Zhenxiang edition of its NEVO A05 and Q05 models officially hit the market. Positioned as a compact sedan, the NEVO A05 Zhenxiang edition comes with five trim levels with a price range of 78,900 yuan to 109,900 yuan. The NEVO A05 Zhenxiang edition, designed as a compact SUV, is offered in three trim levels, which are priced between 96,900 yuan and 112,900 yuan.

NIO launches NOMI GPT large model

On April 12, Chinese electric vehicle maker NIO officially rolled out its NOMI GPT large model, which has been deployed onto the vehicles equipped with the NIO Banyan intelligent system, according to a post on NIO's WeChat account.

Tsingshan Industry, Shaanxi Automobile, Qiyuan Core Motive Power form trilateral cooperation

On April 11, Tsingshan Industry, the world's leading stainless steel producer, reached a strategic partnership with Shaanxi Automobile Holding Group and Qiyuan Core Motive Power Technology Co., Ltd, according to a post on Tsingshan Industry.

GAC MOTOR, Huajian Group sign distribution deal, MoU on KD assembly project

On April 10th, GAC MOTOR, the international business unit of GAC Group, and Huajian Group officially signed a distribution cooperation agreement and a KD (knocked down) assembly memorandum of understanding in Guangzhou.

GAC Group launches all-solid-state battery tech, to be applied in Hyper's model by 2026

At the GAC TECH DAY 2024 held on April 12, GAC Group introduced its all-solid-state battery technology, which is expected to be deployed onto Hyper-branded models by 2026.

FORVIA, GREE join hands to promote new materials R&D, applications for low-carbon economy

On April 11, MATERI' ACT, a FORVIA Group's subsidiary focusing on developing low-carbon materials, signed a Letter of Intent with GREE Green Recycle Resources, part of GREE Electric Appliances ("GREE"), to establish joint ventures by the end of 2024, according to a press release from FORVIA Group.

CATL, DST team up on multiple fields like vehicle electrification, marketing, global business expansion

On April 9, Chinese power battery giant CATL signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement with Digital Sustainable Transport New Energy Vehicle Service Network ("DST"), a Chinese leading provider of digital and intelligent operation services for new energy logistics vehicles, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account.

BWI Group, thyssenkrupp Steering ally on R&D of EMB

On April 9, BWI Group, the HK-listed intelligent automotive chassis supplier, and thyssenkrupp Steering, the global tier-1 automotive partner for steering solutions, struck a deal for the development and manufacturing of a pioneering Electro-Mechanical Brake (EMB) technology, according to a press release from BWI Group.

FORVIA, Chery to build joint venture for intelligent cockpit parts R&D, production

On April 11, FORVIA, the seventh largest automotive technology supplier globally, announced a joint-venture agreement with Chery, a leading Chinese car manufacturer, signed in Hefei. This agreement will deepen their collaboration in the field of intelligent and sustainable cockpits.

China's power battery installed capacity in March 2024 grows 25.8% YoY

In March 2024, China's installed capacity of power batteries reached 35 GWh, marking a year-on-year rise of 25.8% and a month-on-month surge of 94.6%, according to data by the China Automotive Power Battery Industry Innovation Alliance (CAPBIIA).

Hebei province opens first expressway section for intelligent connected vehicle tests

On April 10, the Transport Department, Industrial and Information Technology Department, and Public Security Department of Hebei Province jointly announced the official opening of the G2 Beijing-Shanghai Expressway's Hebei section in Langfang city (Jingjintang Expressways Hebei section) for intelligent connected vehicle road testing and demonstration applications.

Huawei, Chery-backed Luxeed puts all-new S7 model onto market

At Huawei's HarmonyOS Eco Spring Communication event on April 11, the all-new Luxeed S7 officially hit the market, offering 5 trim levels with prices ranging from 249,800 yuan to 349,800 yuan.

Compared to the previous version, the new Luxeed S7 received upgrades in intelligence and power systems.

Volkswagen Group to invest 2.5 billion in production, innovation center in Hefei city

On April 11, 2024, after 40 years of development in the Chinese market, Volkswagen Group reemphasized its commitment to providing high-quality localized models for Chinese customers. It is investing 2.5 billion to expand its production and innovation center in Hefei, Anhui province.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Today marks the 51st anniversary of the diplomatic bond between the Republic of Turkey and the Kingdom of Bahrain. This milestone underscores the enduring ties between both nations, characterised by solidarity, brotherhood, mutual understanding, and shared values.

In commemoration, Her Excellency Mrs. Esin Cakl, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the Kingdom of Bahrain, said: Today, I would like to take this opportunity to commend the developments we have been achieved so far and the goals that we set for the future.

Acknowledging the invaluable support of Bahrains leadership, she extended gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Over the past year, Turkey-Bahrain relations have flourished across diverse sectors, including economy, tourism, culture, education, health, and defense. Initiatives such as youth exchange programs, expanded scholarships for Bahraini youth, Turkish language courses at the University of Bahrain, and increased investment from Turkish companies attest to this growth.

High-level engagements, exemplified by the official visit of H.E. Prof. Dr. Numan Kurtulmus, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey to Bahrain in January 2024, have bolstered inter-parliamentary relations and bilateral cooperation.

Notably, the bilateral trade volume reached $577 million in 2023, with the signing of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Turkey on 21 March 2024, in Ankara, signaling further economic collaboration.

As being the 17th biggest economy in the world and a regional powerhouse, Turkiye aims to improve its economic ties with the GCC for the prosperity of the region, Ambassador Cakl emphasised.

She reaffirmed Turkeys commitment to the security and stability of the Gulf region, emphasising the countrys role as an active participant in strategic dialogues and maritime security efforts, including its membership in the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) based in Bahrain.

Top tourism destination

Expressing gratitude to the people of Bahrain for their warmth and interest in Turkey, Ambassador Cakl highlighted Turkeys position as a leading tourism destination, having welcomed nearly 65,000 Bahraini visitors in 2023.

With the recent visa exemption for Bahraini citizens, Turkey is poised to remain a preferred destination for Bahraini tourists. In closing, Ambassador Cakl extended appreciation to the Turkish community in Bahrain for playing the vital role of the human link between Turkey and Bahrain. She affirmed the enduring partnership between our nations, destined to benefit both peoples and humanity at large.
AFP | Palestine

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Israel was on alert Thursday after its arch-foe Iran threatened reprisals over a strike in Syria this month that killed two Iranian generals, and as the war against Hamas ground on in Gaza.

Days after Israel strengthened its air defences and paused leave for combat units, the United States also warned of the risk of an attack by Iran or its allied groups at a time when Middle East tensions have soared.

Iran is "threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel", US President Joe Biden said Wednesday, pledging "ironclad" support for its top regional ally despite diplomatic tensions over Israel's military conduct in Gaza.

Israel was widely blamed for an April 1 attack that destroyed Iran's consulate building in Damascus and killed seven Revolutionary Guards, including two generals.

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and will be punished", days after one of his advisers said Israeli embassies are "no longer safe".

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly replied on social media site X that "if Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack Iran".

Biden said he had told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that "our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad".

US Central Command chief Michael Kurilla was in Israel on Thursday to discuss the situation with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, the Pentagon said.

"We warned Iran," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told a briefing without elaborating.

The US embassy in Israel also announced it was restricting the movements of its diplomats over security fears, saying that "out of an abundance of caution" staffers and their family could not undertake personal travel outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheeva areas "until further notice".

During a visit to an airbase in central Israel, Netanyahu spoke of "challenging times" on multiple fronts.

"We are in the middle of the war in Gaza which continues in full force... but we are also preparing for scenarios of challenges from other arenas," he said in comments released by his office.

Moscow called on both Iran and Israel to exercise restraint.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock urged "maximum restraint", and Lufthansa said it had extended a temporary suspension of Iran flights until Saturday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he had received phone calls Thursday from Baerbock as well as her British and Australian counterparts.

In a post on X, he said he had told them that "when the Zionist regime breaches the immunity of diplomatic persons and places" and the UN Security Council fails to condemn it, "legitimate defence... is a necessity".

Israel and the United States have long faced off against Iran and its so-called "Axis of Resistance" allies based in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

- 'Situation is dire' -

Regional tensions have been stoked by the Gaza war which began after Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack against Israel left 1,170 people dead, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.

Palestinian militants also took about 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli army says are dead.

Iran has said it had no advance knowledge of October's attack but has hailed the assault.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 33,545 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

Hamas said 20 people were killed in Israeli bombardments on Thursday. It said two schools and two mosques were among the buildings hit and an imam was among the dead.

In the Nuseirat area, which took the brunt of the bombing, Imad Abu Shawish, 39, said "the situation is dire and still getting worse. Bombardment hasn't stopped and is still happening now."

Much of Gaza has been reduced to a bomb-cratered wasteland, with yet more bodies feared under the rubble.

An Israeli siege has deprived Gaza's 2.4 million people of most food, water, fuel and medicines, the dire shortages only alleviated by sporadic aid deliveries.

Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz said Wednesday "Hamas is defeated" militarily but pledged to keep fighting "what remains of it" in the years to come.

An Israeli air strike on Wednesday killed three sons of Hamas's Qatar-based leader Ismail Haniyeh.

Haniyeh insisted their deaths would not influence Hamas's position in ongoing talks in Cairo for a truce and hostage release deal.

Those talks, which started Sunday, have brought no breakthrough on a plan presented by US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators, which Hamas said it was studying.

The framework plan would halt fighting for six weeks and see the exchange of about 40 hostages for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, as well as more aid deliveries.

Biden said that "it's now up to Hamas, they need to move on the proposal that's been made".

Israel accused Hamas Thursday of "walking away" from what government spokesman David Mencer called "a very reasonable offer on the table".

Hamas official Bassem Naim said only a ceasefire could provide "enough time and safety" to locate Israeli hostages held across the territory and ascertain their fate because they are held by different groups.

- 'Destabilising Middle East' -

Washington has ramped up pressure on Netanyahu to agree to a truce, increase aid flows and abandon plans to send troops into Gaza's far-southern city of Rafah where about 1.5 million civilians are sheltering.

Rafah is the last Gazan city yet to face a ground incursion.

Gallant promised Israel would "flood Gaza with aid", using an Israeli crossing point, streamlined checks and two new routes organised with Jordan.

He said they expected to reach 500 aid trucks a day, the pre-war average.

However, a UN Security Council statement Thursday said "more should be done to bring the required relief given the scale of needs in Gaza".

Israel has faced a chorus of international criticism over its handling of the war.

Spain is among several Western nations, including Ireland and Australia, to have suggested they would recognise a Palestinian state as a starting point for wider peace talks.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez warned that Israel's "disproportionate response" in Gaza risked "destabilising the Middle East and, as a consequence, the entire world".
AFP | Karachi

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

At least 17 religious pilgrims were killed and 41 injured in a crash as they travelled to a shrine in southwestern Pakistan, officials said Thursday.

The crash happened around 10 pm (1700 GMT) on Wednesday night in the Hub district of Balochistan province, district deputy commissioner Munir Ahmed told AFP, confirming the toll.

"The truck was overspeeding and it went out of the driver's control while negotiating a turn" and fell into a ravine in a mountainous town as they approached the shrine, he said.

The travellers were en route to a prayer site during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which is currently underway, he added.

"The driver jumped out of the truck and remains safe," he said.

Shaukat Jalbani, the deputy medical superintendent of Hub's main hospital, also confirmed 17 people had been killed and said most of the injured had been sent to nearby Karachi for treatment.

Early Thursday, an AFP photographer in the southern city saw workers unloading the shrouded bodies of those killed into a morgue.

Road accidents with high fatalities are common in Pakistan where safety measures are lax, driver training is poor and transport infrastructure often decrepit.

In January 2023, 41 people were killed when their passenger bus, which was also loaded with containers of flammable oil, plunged into a ravine in Balochistan province and burst into flames.
AFP | Rome

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

A black-walled banqueting hall decorated with scenes from Greek mythology, where ancient Romans feasted by candlelight, has been unearthed in Pompeii, the archaeological park said Thursday.

The exceptionally well-preserved frescoes show the god Apollo attempting to seduce Trojan priestess Cassandra, and Helen of Troy meeting Paris, an encounter which would lead to war.

"The mythical couples were starting points for talking about the past and life," Pompeii director Gabriel Zuchtreigel said in a statement.

"The walls were black to prevent the smoke from the lamps on the walls from being seen," he said.

"Here they gathered to feast after sunset, the flickering light of the lamps made the images seem to move, especially after a few glasses of good Campania wine," said Zuchtreigel, referring to the southern Italian region.

Pompeii was devastated when nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted almost 2,000 years ago in 79 AD.

The ash and rock helped preserve many buildings almost in their original state, as well as forming eery shapes around the curled-up corpses of victims of the disaster, thought to number around 3,000.

The hall, with its nearly intact white mosaic floor, was discovered during an excavation which has also uncovered a bakery, a laundry and houses with sumptuous frescoed living rooms.

- 'Treasure chest' -

"Pompeii is truly a treasure chest that never ceases to surprise us and arouse amazement because, every time we dig, we find something beautiful and significant," Culture Minister Gennaro Sanguiliano said.

The spacious hall shows "the high standard of living" in the domus, where building works had been under way when the volcano erupted, Pompeii said.

It said the fresco themes appear to be heroism and destiny, with the relationship between individuals and fate embodied by Cassandra, who is cursed by Apollo for rejecting him, so that she can forsee the future but is believed by no-one.

"The frequent presence of mythological figures on frescoes in the reception rooms of Roman houses had precisely the social function of entertaining guests and guests, providing subjects for conversation and reflection on the meaning of existence," the park statement said.

The banqueting hall -- which measures some 15 metres by six metres (50 feet by 20 feet) -- opens into a courtyard which appears to be an open-air service hallway, with a long staircase leading to the first floor.

A vast pile of construction materials was found set aside under the arches of the staircase.

"Someone had drawn in charcoal, on the rough plaster of the arches of the great staircase, two pairs of gladiators and what appears to be an enormous stylised phallus," the statement said.

Pompeii is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second most visited tourist site in Italy, after the Colosseum in Rome.

Archaeologists estimate that 15 to 20 percent of Pompeii's population died in the eruption, mostly from thermal shock as a giant cloud of gases and ash covered the city.
Beijing says US, Japan 'smeared and attacked' China at summit

Beijing says US, Japan 'smeared and attacked' China at summit

AFP | Beijing

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Beijing said on Thursday the United States and Japan had "smeared and attacked" China during a Washington summit, where US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida unveiled their countries' biggest upgrade in defence ties.

Biden and Kishida unveiled plans on Wednesday to restructure the US military command in Japan, the biggest such change since the 1960s.

The move is aimed at making US and Japanese forces more nimble in the event of threats, such as a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

Biden insisted that the military upgrade in China's backyard was "purely defensive" but has made no bones about his desire to create alliances to counter Beijing.

In response to a question on Kishida's visit and the upgrade in ties, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said the United States and Japan had "smeared and attacked China on Taiwan and maritime issues, grossly interfered in China's internal affairs, and seriously violated the basic norms governing international relations".

Mao said China was "strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to this and has lodged solemn representations with relevant parties".

"The US-Japan relationship should not target or harm other countries' interests, and should not undermine regional peace and stability," she said.

- 'Peace and stability' -

A joint statement issued at the White House said the two sides wanted to upgrade their "command and control frameworks to enable seamless integration of operations and capabilities".

The United States has around 54,000 military personnel in Japan but they currently report to Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii, around 6,500 kilometres (4,000 miles) away and a time zone 19 hours behind Tokyo.

The new framework will allow for greater "interoperability and planning" between the two countries' forces, the statement said, although details are yet to be finalised.

They said they plan to boost cooperation in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance as well as cybersecurity.

In Washington, Kishida hailed the alliance as crucial for upholding peace and democracy in the region, where China has been increasingly assertive, and called for "peace and stability" across the Taiwan Strait.

Mao insisted the "Taiwan issue is purely China's internal affair".

"We won't allow any interference from any external force," she said.

China regards Taiwan as its own territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the self-ruled island under its control.

- South China Sea-

Biden will host the first trilateral summit between Japan, the Philippines and the United States later on Thursday to support Manila amid tensions with China in the disputed South China Sea.

The three countries conducted joint naval and air drills with Australia in the South China Sea at the weekend as they deepen ties to counter China's growing assertiveness.

China, in turn, conducted its own military "combat patrols" on Sunday.

Mao said China's activities "are in full compliance with international law and beyond reproach".

"China has indisputable sovereignty over the South China Sea Islands and their adjacent waters," she said.

"China will continue to properly handle maritime issues with relevant parties through dialogue and consultation and jointly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea."
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- At the GAC TECH DAY 2024 held on April 12, GAC Group introduced its all-solid-state battery technology, which is expected to be deployed onto Hyper-branded models by 2026.

Li Jin, head of GAC AION's battery R&D department, explained that the all-solid-state battery boasts higher energy density, intrinsic safety, and a broader operational temperature range. He described the development of this battery technology as challenging as "climbing Mount Everest," requiring breakthroughs in materials, design, manufacturing, and integration.

Photo credit: GAC AION

The battery uses a 100% solid-state electrolyte and features ultra-high energy density, robust intrinsic safety (primarily at the cell level), and an extensive temperature range for operation. It has moved "from the lab to large-scale production application."

With the third generation of sponge silicon anode and high-capacity solid-state cathode technologies, the new full-solid-state battery achieves an energy density over 400 Wh/kg. This represents a volume energy density increase of more than 52% and a mass energy density increase of more than 50% compared to existing mass-produced liquid-state lithium-ion batteries, enabling a range of over 1,000 kilometers. In terms of safety, it can withstand puncturing and cutting without failure and endure temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius, said the carmaker.

At the Auto Guangzhou 2023 in last November, GAC Group announced its plan to deploy all-solid-state batteries in vehicles by 2026. Later, in early February this year, GAC AION revealed the latest progress in the development of the Hyper solid-state battery, hitting an energy density exceeding 350 Wh/kg.

Last year, GAC AION's laboratory announced the completion of interface modification technology trials for solid-state batteries and revealed new technological breakthroughs. This technology is expected to reduce battery life degradation by 50%. After 150 charging cycles, the battery can maintain more than 90% of its original capacity.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On April 11, Tsingshan Industry, the world's leading stainless steel producer, reached a strategic partnership with Shaanxi Automobile Holding Group and Qiyuan Core Motive Power Technology Co., Ltd, according to a post on Tsingshan Industry.





Tsingshan Industry, Shaanxi Automobile Holding signing agreement; photo credit: Tsingshan

To be specific, Tsingshan Industry and Shaanxi Automobile Holding signed a strategic cooperation agreement, while Yongqing Technology (subsidiary of Tsingshan Holding), Shaanxi Heavy Duty Automobile (subsidiary of Shaanxi Automobile Holding), and Qiyuan Core Motive Power inked a memorandum of understanding for the Overseas Green Transport Consortium collaboration.

Xiang Guangda, Chairman of Tsingshan Industrys board, introduced the development history of Tsingshan Industry and its projects in countries such as Indonesia and Zimbabwe. He expressed his anticipation for achieving outstanding results through the partnership with Shaanxi Automobile Holding and Qiyuan Core Motive Power, leveraging strong alliances and complementary strengths.

Yuan Hongming, Chairman of Shaanxi Automobile Holding, pointed out that Shaanxi Automobile Holding's product range covers heavy off-road vehicles, heavy-duty and medium-to-light-duty trucks, large- and medium-sized buses, and relevant components. The company has leading technology and product development in the field of energy-saving and new energy commercial vehicles. He hopes that the three parties can leverage their respective strengths, continuously expand their cooperation, and inject new momentum into each other's development.

Cai Ning, General Manager of Qiyuan Core Motive Power, stated that the company focuses on commercial transportation scenarios represented by battery-swappable heavy trucks, electric construction machinery, and electric vessels, aiming to accelerate the transition to electric power in the transportation sector. Each enterprise possesses unique resources and strengths, and the tripartite cooperation can better achieve a win-win situation and mutual development.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On April 11, FORVIA, the seventh largest automotive technology supplier globally, announced a joint-venture agreement with Chery, a leading Chinese car manufacturer, signed in Hefei. This agreement will deepen their collaboration in the field of intelligent and sustainable cockpits.

FORVIA and Chery will establish a "Cockpit of the Future" joint venture in Wuhu city, aimed at designing, developing, manufacturing, and supplying complete cockpit systems and modules, involving seats, interiors, and cockpit electronics that utilize materials and processes with low carbon dioxide emissions. This will be the first joint venture of its kind in China, said FORVIA. The performance of this joint venture will be integrated into FORVIA, targeting 1 billion in sales by 2029.

Photo credit: FORVIA

The joint venture will establish an R&D center focusing on industrial design and cockpit integration capabilities, aiming to help FORVIA and Chery deliver pioneering, sustainable, and competitive consumer experiences.

The yet-to-be-formed venture plans to launch two production sites in the first half of 2024 to better support the rapid development of Chery.

Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Holding, stated, Electrification, intelligence, brand upward, globalization and sustainability development, these are the next strategic priorities for CHERY. FORVIA is a leading global automotive technology supplier, and the two parties have a broad space for cooperation in the field of intelligent cockpit and low CO2 emission materials, as well as a wide range of complementarities and cooperation opportunities in the overseas market."

Patrick KOLLER, CEO of FORVIA, commented, The automotive industry is currently experiencing a technological revolution and smart sustainable cockpit demand is increasing. To stay ahead in this competitive market, we are pleased to further deepen our collaboration with Chery, a key technology-driven partner. We aim to turn the vehicle cabin into a truly intelligent space, meeting the scenario-based needs of consumers through sustainable and innovative solutions to create a safe, affordable, sustainable and customized mobility experience.

It's worth mentioning that in September 2023, FORVIA and Chery signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement, deepening their comprehensive collaboration in the field of intelligent and sustainable cockpits.
A blaze ripped through a home under construction in Avalon early Friday and damaged two neighboring houses, though no injuries were reported, borough officials said.

The fire was reported shortly before 1 a.m. in the home on 32nd Street, less than two blocks from the beach. The blaze was declared under control in about an hour, Avalon officials said in a social media post.

The flames melted the siding on the closest neighboring house.

The fire was escalated to a second alarm for additional firefighters and the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department was assisted by fire company from five nearby towns.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Avalon police and Cape May County fire marshal.

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A former corrections officer for the Essex County Jail is taking her former employers to court, claiming she was discriminated against and fired after she contracted long-haul COVID-19.

The former officer states in court papers she tested positive for COVID-19 in April 2020 and went out on leave in accordance with the jails protocol at the time.

When she attempted to obtain workers compensation insurance benefits, her employment was terminated in violation of the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, according to the suit filed in February 2023.

The woman also claims she was sexually harassed by a sergeant at the facility who later suspended her without pay from her job before she was terminated.

Essex County officials did not respond to requests for comment on the lawsuit.

Court records show discovery in the case is set to end in June, then a trial date will be set. The womans attorney did not return a call seeking comment on the lawsuit.

The woman said in court papers she contracted COVID-19 while working at the jail in March 2020 and she tested positive the next month. The woman needed care from six physician specialists who placed her on a large number of medications, according to the suit.

The woman says she was out on leave for 10 months when a sergeant called her on Feb. 10, 2021, and ordered her to come to the jail. She told the sergeant she could not drive due to her health, so he sent officers to her home to drive her to the jail and escort her into the building, according to the suit.

The woman claims she was interrogated by the sergeant, who claimed she had violated workplace rules and regulations. A lieutenant was in the room recording the interrogation at the time, according to the complaint.

Plaintiff was berated, yelled at, accused of engagement in undue familiarity and was told that she was now suspended without pay, the suit says. Undue familiarity can mean failing to maintain an appropriate professional relationship with an employer, according to Lawinsider.com.

The lawsuit claims the woman was falsely accused of workplace violations that were said to have happened in 2019, and in a location where plaintiff did not work.

She was served that day with disciplinary charges, and later filed a complaint alleging retaliation, stating she was being punished for seeking workers compensation benefits, according to the suit.

The officer was eventually terminated in violation of both workers compensation laws and state laws against discrimination, the lawsuit said.

Plaintiff was treated in an inhumane way and while out on lengthy sick leave she was required to call her job on a daily basis to announce that she would be out sick for her shift, the suit says.

The lawsuit also alleges sexual harassment, claiming some male supervisors failed to recognize the job she performed and focused instead on trying to date subordinates.

The sergeant who allegedly berated the officer had once asked her out on a date, which she refused, according to the lawsuit.

When the sergeant later interrogated the woman, he allegedly banged on the table with his fist and told plaintiff that she could now ride off into the sunset to marry (him) in Jamaica, the suit alleges.

Plaintiff was subjected to other instances of sexual harassment in the workplace and knew that if she went along with the sexual advances, she would avoid the wrath of supervisory personnel, the suit alleges.

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Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
If Steve Fulop wins the race for governor in 2025, therell be lots of nice perks in store  a historic mansion near the center of Princeton, a newly-renovated office in the nations second-oldest State House. But one thing wont get any sweeter: Hell take a huge pay cut.

As Jersey Citys mayor, Fulop collects more than just a base salary thats among the highest for a New Jersey public official. He also receives an additional benefit that Jersey City gives a select group of employees: extra pay tied to the number of years theyve worked for local government.

A 2019 city ordinance connected the mayors base pay to that of the Hudson County executive, which skyrocketed from $180,530 in 2022 to $216,700 (thats a 20% raise) last year when the Hudson County Board of Commissioners voted to give outgoing Executive Tom DeGise a $36,000 raise.

On top of that, however, Fulop also receives longevity pay  a bonus given to some longtime city employees to discourage turnover.

Adding in 8% longevity pay, or $17,336, brought the mayors 2023 salary to more than $234,000. This year, his longevity allowance bumped to 10% because hes completed 20 years as a city employee. That means Fulops salary has risen to $238,700, making him one of the highest paid mayors in the country.

As governor, Phil Murphy earns just $175,000.

Several other Hudson officials are eligible for longevity pay, but not so much as Fulop. For example, DeGises replacement as county executive, Craig Guy, will receive $1,100 in longevity pay this year after working for the county for more than two decades.

Jersey City spokeswoman Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione defended Fulops longevity pay, saying he is 100% entitled to (it), consistent with every single mayor and council member in Jersey City history that started prior to 2010. She said the mayor does not set his salary, which is approved by the city council.

Longevity pay for Jersey City employees was phased out by former Mayor Jerramiah Healy via executive order in 2010, but non-union and unclassified employees who were full-time prior to Nov. 1, 2010, were grandfathered in.

It appears that Fulop  first elected to the city council in 2005  is the last elected official still legally collecting the perk, because as far back as 2005 city council members were technically categorized as full-time employees, according to officials with the state Civil Service Commission.

But city Councilman Richard Boggiano has also been paid more than $71,000 in longevity pay since 2017 that he was apparently never entitled to receive, The Jersey Journal discovered after a search of executive orders dating back to 2004 and payroll records obtained through Open Public Records Act requests.

Boggiano, a retired police officer elected to the council in 2013, said he wasnt aware of any issues with my pay, as the Clerks Office is responsible for the Council administration.

Boggiano is being paid an additional 16% of his $85,000 base salary, or $13,600 annually, for his 37 years as a police officer. But according to municipal code based on a 2006 executive order, a retired employee collecting a city pension from who comes back to work for the city is not entitled to longevity pay for their previous service.

Boggiano began collecting his police pension in 2008.

Initially, it appears that the councilman should not have been receiving longevity pay as he has retired and has a break in service, city spokesman Stan Eason said. He obviously didnt make this clerical error himself.

We will conduct an audit to see if this was a mistake in (the human resources department) and if there was indeed an error, we will seek repayment or garnish wages going forward to make sure compensation is in line with the executive orders and ordinances.

The revelation of a potential overpayment to Boggiano comes in the wake of an unflattering audit of the citys 2021 and 2022 finances that cited a combination of overspending and unreliable reporting for more than $27 million in debt the city deferred to 2023.

According to payroll records, Fulop has collected more than $89,000 in longevity pay since 2008, including more than $47,000 between 2020 and 2023.

City Council President Joyce Watterman, who does not receive longevity pay, says no elected official, including the mayor, should receive the additional payment.

I cant see longevity pay with elected office because you are not like a hired employee, said Watterman, who ran on the mayors slate in the past two elections. We are elected by the public. There is a difference.

Fulops salary is only slightly behind the $258,000 paid to New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

The 2019 ordinance which ties the mayors base salary to the county executive was included in a larger overhaul of compensation for the citys top administrative personnel. Watterman said the plan was intended to make salaries for department directors more competitive to lure better-qualified employees. At the time, Watterman said, the mayors salary  then $109,000  was considered low, and based on running a city that is growing, you have to compare it to something. So we compared it with the county executive.

It could get out of hand, but if that happens, remember, you can always write another ordinance to slow it down, said Watterman, who has told The Jersey Journal she plans to run for mayor in 2025, though she has not made an official announcement.

The 2019 ordinance took effect on Jan. 1, 2022. Fulop received a pay increase of nearly 39% to match DeGises salary of $176,127. Both received small pay hikes in July that year to $180,530, followed by the 20% raise on July 1, 2023.

If the idea was to take the politics out of the mayors salary, that plan failed because DeGise  who was retiring in six months  got a going-away present, the newcounty exec got a welcome present and Fulop made out in the process, one political insider said.

The county executives raise was awarded among a wave of 13% raises for county department directors and other administration officials that totaled more than $230,000. Department directors went from $165,811 to $187,000, and county Administrator Abe Antuns salary increased from $194,000 to $220,000.

County Board of Commissioners Chairman Anthony Romano said the large raises were awarded to make up for years during the COVID-19 pandemic that raises had been withheld. But payroll officials said, and commissioner meeting agendas show, that 2-3% raises had been awarded annually.
After more than three years and combined efforts of two nations, a man has been arrested in the murder of a Bayonne woman, the Hudson County Prosecutors Office announced Friday.

Bayonnes Erick Acosta was extradited from Colombia Wednesday and arrested upon his arrival at Newark Liberty International Airport, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said.
There are only two more Bad Bunny concerts in New York, and you have to get your hands on tickets.

After performing at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. on April 11, he has two more shows left on April 12 and 13.

Bad Bunny will continue his Most Wanted Tour throughout North America until he wraps up his tour on May 26 in Miami.

Luckily, for fans who did not secure tickets yet to see Bad Bunny, there are still many available on secondary market websites.

Tickets are available on sites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketCity and SeatGeek.

Plus, the prices compared to tickets when they first hit the market are considerably cheaper.

The cheapest ticket for one of his remaining concerts in Brooklyn, before fees and at the time of publication, is $215 on Vivid Seats.

First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout.

TicketCity users can save $15 on orders over $400 using promo code TCITYSAVE15 at checkout.

You can find a full calendar of Bad Bunnys remaining tour dates are available here.

More upcoming tours heading to the Barclays Center

Bad Bunny is not the only artist heading to Barclays Center this year.

Here is a list of upcoming tours that you wont want to miss: Chris Brown, Janet Jackson, Russ, Usher and Missy Elliot.

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A 64-year-old Trenton woman was yanked from her car and struck several times by three carjackers who fled in her vehicle Thursday at a Wawa in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, according to police.

The incident occurred shortly before 4 a.m. at the Wawa on West Trenton Avenue in Morrisville, according to the Falls Township Police Department.

The woman was accosted after leaving the store and returning to her gray 2017 Honda Civic with New Jersey plates ZBU 34C, police said in a statement.

During the incident they forcibly removed her from the vehicle and struck her several times in the face. The victim declined medical treatment for her injuries, police said.

Police are searching for three people who carjacked a woman shortly before 4 a.m. Thursday at the Wawa on West Trenton Avenue in Morrisville, according to the Falls Township Police Department in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.Falls Township PD

Two men fled in the victims car while a woman who was with them fled in a stolen white 2009 Acura TSX with New Jersey plates L81 UBC. The Acura had been stolen during a carjacking that occurred 45 minutes earlier in Trenton, according to police.

Two of the suspects wore black ski masks while the third wore a black medical mask, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Ronald MacPherson at 215-302-3347 or email r.macpherson@fallstwppd.com. Information may also be provided anonymously at 215-949-9120, or emailed to tiplines@fallstwppd.com.

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Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo's first electric vehicle hasn't been welcomed as part of the family, and it's not because of its battery-powered technology, either. Instead, the disdain for the all-new model stems from its name, with an Italian official detesting the Polish production of a vehicle known as the Alfa Romeo Milano.

Named after Italy's moral capital and Alfa Romeo's origin city, Milan, the subcompact crossover shares its platform with the Jeep Avenger and Fiat 600e. Sharing platforms with fellow Stellantis models is cost-saving, no doubt, but it means the Milano will be manufactured in Tychy, Poland. With an ever-strong national heritage, Italy's industry minister, Adolfo Urso, believes this move by Stellantis is unacceptable.

Alfa Romeo

"A car called Milano cannot be produced in Poland. This is forbidden by Italian law," Urso said in Turin on Thursday. "This law stipulates that you cannot give indications that mislead consumers. So a car called Milano must be produced in Italy. Otherwise, it gives a misleading indication which is not allowed under Italian law."

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The law that Urso is referencing dates back to 2003, stating that it is illegal to market Italian-sounding products produced elsewhere as Italian in the name of consumer safety. Another example of the relevance of this law includes the restricted use of the Italian product name Parmigiano Reggiano in describing American-made parmesan cheese.

Regardless of the rhetorical stipulations, Stellantis' CEO Carlos Tavares told Automotive News Europe that producing the Milano EV in Poland will be a better deal for the company and consumers alike. Tavares went as far as saying that Polish production of the Milano will yield a 10,000 euro reduction in price, with the model set to start at under 30,000 euros. That's about $32,136 for the base model, hybrid version, according to Automotive News Europe.

Notably, the Milano will be the only Alfa Romeo produced outside of Italy, diverging from the Cassino Plant-produced Stelvio midsize SUV and Giulia midsize sedan.

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A man from northern New Jersey was killed early Friday morning after the car he was driving on Interstate 80 in Essex County collided with a dump truck, authorities said.

The crash occurred shortly before 3 a.m. in the eastbound lanes near milepost 49.6 in Fairfield Township, according to New Jersey State Police.

Authorities said the car and dump truck were traveling east when the driver of the car lost control, veered off the highway and struck the right-side guardrail. The car then re-entered the highway and collided with the dump truck, causing the truck to overturn, state police said.

The driver of the car, identified as Sixto Torres-Duran, 43, of Paterson was killed in the crash. The truck driver was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries, police said. The crash remains under investigation.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
From the time she was born, life had never been very fair to the young child.

She always struggled from the beginning, recalled the mother of the 4-year-old girl, who had a history of developmental delays, seizures and what her doctors called a failure to thrive.

Still, she was a happy child, said her mom.

Her smile was one of the best things about her, she said.

Then, last year, tragedy struck. She had found her daughter unresponsive after she had come down with a cold several weeks earlier. They rushed her to the hospital, where later that afternoon the girl went into cardiac arrest. Her heart stopped beating for several long minutes. When she finally emerged from the hospital, she had been left with serious brain damage and could no longer move her arms or legs.

Non-mobile, she was unable to walk and was tethered to a feeding tube and a ventilator. At times, she was unable to breathe on her own. She would end up far from the home in Brooklyn she shared with two older siblings and her twin brother, to be cared for at the Phoenix Center for Rehabilitation and Pediatrics in Haskell, a nursing home in northern Passaic County and one of the few in the metropolitan region specializing in medically fragile young patients.

But in a lawsuit filed this week, the parents of the girl, identified only as K.A. to protect her privacy, charged that she suffered a spiral fracture of her left arm while at Phoenix Center, which has a troubled history.

Such injuries are typically associated with concerns of child abuse, according to the lawyer for the parents, Paul da Costa of Sarno da Costa DAniello Maceri in Roseland, leading to a notification to the New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency by officials at Morristown Medical Center, where K.A. was being treated for her broken arm.

The parents are primarily looking to see that no other child at this facility is subject to the same abuse that their daughter had to endure, da Costa said.

Just exactly what happened is unknown. In an interview, her mother, the director of recruiting at a staffing company, said there had been no documentation of any falls. But in February, according to the lawsuit, a nurse observed that the girls left arm had redness, swelling and was warm to the touch. She was crying, had an elevated heart rate and was given Tylenol for pain.

Then they called me and said the X-rays came back and it was fractured. I was floored, her mother recounted.

She noted that the girl could not move and the doctor in the emergency room said he couldnt understand how it could happen.

They classified it as child abuse, said the mother. The facility said they would do their own investigation and they could find no wrongdoing by its staff. They said it was weak bones.

But the girls calcium levels had been normal and she did not buy the explanation.

Someone did this, said the girls father, who works as an actor. This was inflicted on her.

In their lawsuit, filed in Superior Court in Passaic County, they charged Phoenix Center with being grossly negligent, careless, and reckless in the care of their daughter. They alleged that the girl was obliged to undergo extensive medical treatment, incur great expense for medical and attendant care, and was caused to suffer great physical and emotional pain and suffering all of which will continue indefinitely into the future.

The filing charged that Phoenix Center, its administrator, and unnamed caregivers deviated from accepted standards of nursing home, rehabilitation and/or long-term care.

Once known as Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, the nursing home came under scrutiny in 2018 when 11 children died after a viral outbreak. The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services later imposed a nearly $600,000 fine and harshly criticized the facility, saying it found the facility to be ill-prepared to react to the rapid spread of the deadly strain of the virus that struck not long before COVID made its appearance.

A year later, it was sold and changed its name to Phoenix.

The deaths prompted legislative hearings and a law requiring outbreak response plans for long-term care facilities that are licensed to provide care to residents on ventilators.

Our options were limited...

The mother of K.A said she had been placed at Phoenix because it was one of the few places with a bed for her after she came out of the hospital.

We applied to any facility in the tri-state area capable of taking care of her specific needs. Most didnt have space, she explained.

Still, she noted, it looked clean.

The girls father, though, said he never felt truly comfortable with her being there.

I dont want to talk ill of them, but it just seemed like everything was disjointed there. Sometimes there was no one at the desk and you just walked in, he recalled. Sometimes I had to ask for help suctioning her. It just felt that attention was lacking in general there.

The administrator of Phoenix did not respond to several emails or messages seeking comment.

New Jersey Department of Children and Families spokesman Jason Butkowski said that due to the confidentiality laws governing the work of the states child welfare system, he could not publicly disclose information about specific allegations, nor confirm or deny whether or not an investigation had occurred.

Meanwhile, K.A. has been moved out of Phoenix and is now at a specialized childrens nursing facility in New York.

Its a beautiful place and they really believe in the kids, said her mother.

At Phoenix, she said, all her daughter did was stare up at the ceiling at day. Now shes in a wheelchair and participating in school at the facility.

I dont know what improvement is possible considering her brain damage. I would like for her to be fully aware of her family, she said. I just want her to have happiness. I do have a lot of hope for her future.

__

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Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL.
Crews braced cold and windy weather to haul a dead whale from a New Jersey beach after it washed ashore Wednesday morning.

Clusters of captivated people gathered several feet from the whale on Long Beach Islands 51st Street beach, watching crews examine the dead mammal and eventually haul it off the sand by the afternoon.
About half of Pennsylvania swing voters arent sold on former President Donald Trumps shifting positions on abortion, according to Axios latest Engagious/Sago focus groups.

That could spell big trouble for him come November as Pennsylvania is expected to be one of the half-dozen states or so that will decide the outcome of the election.

Interviews with 11 voters who swung from former President Trump in 2016 to President Biden in 2020 suggest the security of access to abortion will determine who they support in November, per Axios.

This comes after Arizonas state Supreme Court ruling that permits enforcement of an 1864 law effectively banning abortion in the state. Trump has said he thinks states should decide on the issue and later said he wouldnt sign a national abortion ban.

But that was only after his campaign floated the idea Trump would get behind a 15-week ban.

And as Florida voter, Trump will have to decide whether to support a six-week ban when he votes in November since theres a ballot initiative to strike down his states six-week abortion ban.

But the focus group also showed troubling signs for President Joe Biden.

Per Axios, Frustrated with both Trump and Biden, most participants  six  said they would take Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over either of the presumptive nominees.

But from Rich Thau, president of Engagious, who moderated the focus groups, Among pro-choice swing voters who would vote for RFK Jr., some seemed to second-guess their support when confronted with the argument that a vote for Kennedy is effectively a vote for Trump and his abortion policies, he told Axios.

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Fox News Sean Hannity is blaming Arizona Democrats for sitting on their hands after the states Republican-stacked Supreme Courts decision that revived an 1864 law that criminalizes abortion throughout pregnancy unless a womans life is at risk.

He claims theyre using the unpopular ban  even among some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump  to help tip the state toward President Joe Biden in the fall.

If Democrats  you want to get rid of the law, well, you have a chance right now to get rid of it. And I would advise you, get rid of it! Hannity said recently. They would rather use it as a political tool ahead of November.

The left-leaning journalism watchdog group Media Matters pointed out Hannity started attacking Arizona Democrats after he originally called on the states GOP to step in.

This is my message for all of you elected state Republican leaders out there in Arizona. Get your act together. Change the law now, and that means every Republican has to stay united, and you better understand where the people in this country are on the issue of abortion. Putting aside over 50% of abortions are now done with the pill, put that aside. And what you need to do is follow the Dobbs decision, 15 weeks, follow the first-trimester decision, whatever it is. And then youve got to force your Democratic governor, Hobbs, to sign a bill that says no late-term abortions, no abortions based on gender or race, Hannity said earlier.

Left unsaid is some GOP lawmakers in the state support the near-total ban and the GOP likely doesnt have the votes to get a bill to the states Democratic governors desk.

And the speaker of the House and the Senate president both weighed in, in this case, with an amicus brief, urging the court to do exactly what it did today, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs said the day the courts decision.

The fact is that some of the Republicans right now who are saying that this decision went too far are the same politicians who celebrated the Dobbs decision, which paved the way for this court ruling today, she said.

The states Republican-led legislature is pretty evenly divided and theres an argument Democrats could band together with Republicans to send Hobbs legislation. But enough Republicans would still need to get onboard since they control both chambers.

According to AP VoteCast, 6 out of 10 Arizona voters in the 2022 midterm elections said they would favor guaranteeing legal abortion nationwide. The state recorded 11,530 abortions in 2022, the last data available, according to Arizonas Department of Health Services.

Abortion rights advocates said theyve gathered more than 500,000 signatures for the petition from the Arizona for Abortion Access campaign  far above what they need to add a ballot question asking voters to approve a constitutional amendment protecting the right to abortion until viability, when a fetus could survive outside the womb.

Arriving for a campaign fundraiser in Atlanta, Trump said the Arizona court decision went too far and called on state lawmakers to change it even as he defended the U.S. Supreme Courts 2022 ruling overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Biden narrowly won the state in 2020.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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New Jersey voters overwhelmingly disapprove of a push by state lawmakers to overhaul the states laws concerning public access to government records, according to a new poll released Friday.

The Fairleigh Dickinson University survey found four out of five voters opposed the legislation, which supporters say is necessary to modernize the state Open Public Records Act, or OPRA, while opponents argue it would curtail the publics right to know.

Its rare to see any bill attract this much opposition, Dan Cassino, a professor who directed the poll, said in a statement. Republicans and Democrats, young and old, Black, Hispanic and white: nobody thinks this is a good idea.
The first of Donald Trumps four criminal prosecutions heads to trial on Monday and jury selection is set to begin.

And who will Trumps lawyers be looking for?

Mr. Trumps lawyers want a jury that includes younger Black men and white working-class men, particularly public employees like police officers, firefighters and sanitation workers. Those who have had bad experiences with the legal system will also be prized by the defense, which has cast the case as politically motivated, according to a report from The New York Times.

Trump is accused of falsifying his companys records to hide the nature of payments to his former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen, who helped Trump bury negative stories during his 2016 campaign. Cohens activities included paying porn actor Stormy Daniels $130,000 to suppress her claims of an extramarital sexual encounter with Trump years earlier.

Trump pleaded not guilty last year to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. He has denied having a sexual encounter with Daniels. His lawyers argue the payments to Cohen were legitimate legal expenses.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Whats at stake in Donald Trumps first of four criminal trials that is set to begin Monday and could the former president go to prison?

Yes, with a catch.

Trump is accused of falsifying his companys records to hide the nature of payments to his former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen, who helped Trump bury negative stories during his 2016 campaign. Cohens activities included paying porn actor Stormy Daniels $130,000 to suppress her claims of an extramarital sexual encounter with Trump years earlier.

Trump pleaded not guilty last year to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. He has denied having a sexual encounter with Daniels. His lawyers argue the payments to Cohen were legitimate legal expenses.

If hes found guilty on all the charges, he could technically face more than a decade in prison.

But according to a report from USA Today, its unlikely.

Instead, he would likely be sentenced to something between probation and four years in prison. And he would probably still be out, free to campaign for president as the presumptive or actual 2024 Republican nominee, while his all-but-certain appeal was pending, legal scholars to the outlet.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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The five-year prison term handed down last year will not change for the driver of a speeding car who killed a Hillsborough woman in January 2015, an appeals court ruled Wednesday.

This is the third appeal by driver Sahil Kulgod, now 30, in the death of Nancy Louie, a married mother of three.

Kulgod was a 21-year-old college student home on winter break when he lost control of his Ford Focus on Millstone River Road in Hillsborough, careened into oncoming traffic and slammed into a Louies vehicle.

The 50-year-old woman died at the scene. Her 20-year-old daughter survived the crash.

Investigators found Kulgods speed was 86 miles per hour.

Authorities charged Kulgod, then of Plainsboro, with reckless vehicular homicide and a jury convicted him in September of 2019. A judge sentenced him to five years in prison two months later - which touched off multiple appeals.

(In 2016, Kulgod graduated from college and started working in the auto industry, including working on safety features, the latest appeals decision says.)

In the first appeal, in 2021, an appeals court upheld the conviction, but found inconsistencies in the judges explanations of the mitigating and aggravating sentencing factors. They sent it back to the trial judge, who in 2022 resentenced Kulgod, this time to four years in prison, in the interest of justice.

The Somerset County Prosecutors Office appealed that decision, and on April, 4, 2023, appeals judges wiped out the four-year term and ordered Kulgod be resentenced again, this time by a new judge. (The trial judge is not named in the decisions.)

Those appeals judges found the trial judge erred differently this time, by not providing an explanation for the interest of justice downgrade, and not considering the Twitter posts Kulgod made in the months before the crash, in which he brags about speeding over 100 miles per hour.

Coincidentally, Kulgod was released from the state prison system on April 1, 2023, after competing time in a work-release program. As he awaited resentencing last year, Kulgod appealed to the state Supreme Court, but it declined to hear the case.

On August 10, 2023, Somerset County Judge Peter J. Tober presided over Kulgods third sentencing and handed down a five-year term. Like the previous two, Tober applied the No Early Release Act provision, which mandates an inmate serve 85% of their sentence before parole eligibility.

That meant Kulgod had to go back to prison. He is currently in a state halfway house in Newark and his term will end in June, records show.

Wednesdays appeal examined the third sentence.

Kulgods lawyer, from the state Public Defenders Office, made several arguments, including that the appeals court declare original jurisdiction and revert his sentence to four years. And the public defender also detailed the hardships on Kulgods family and how hes not been in trouble since the crash.

In the end, Judge Tober got it right, the appeals decision says.

The appeals court acknowledged Kulgod has pursued a career related to automobile safety and has remained free from legal trouble.

Those circumstances, while commendable, do not satisfy the interests of justice test, the decision says.

Kulgods crime is subject to the five-year NERA term, especially when, as in this case, defendant is subject to enhanced punishment, the decision said.

We have no basis upon which to reduce the five-year prison term. This time, there was no abuse of sentencing discretion. Nor does the five-year term in any way shock the judicial conscience, the decision concluded.

Nancy Louie was a native of Taiwan, but lived in New Jersey since 1977. She supported charities and her family remembered her this way: Nancys life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives.

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New York Yankees right fielder Juan Soto has unparalleled strike-zone judgment. His ability to identify balls and strikes and pitches he can drive have provided a foundation to become one of the best hitters in the major leagues.

But sometimes his passivity goes too far, at least in the eyes of WFAN host Sal Licata. Case in point: the bottom of the ninth inning Wednesday in the Yankees 5-2 loss to the Miami Marlins. Down by three runs and two runners on base, Soto worked a six-pitch walk, bringing up Aaron Judge with the bases loaded.

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Hes looking for a walk! I love Juan Soto  a walk is not as good as a hit, Licata said Thursday, via Audacy. When you have Judge struggling, a pitcher on the ropes, and runners on first and second in a spot where you need to do damage. Youre Juan Soto. You need to do damage there, not draw a walk.

Judge ended up flying out to center field, placing the blame on Soto in Licatas eyes, despite him not recording the final out himself.

Juan Soto is looking for a walk, Licata said. Swing the bat, bro. You want to get paid? Swing the bat  I cannot accept a walk in that spot from Juan Soto. That does not get the job done. Passing the baton is not what Im looking for from Juan Soto. Im looking for him to do some damage.

Soto has a .360 average with two home runs and 12 RBI this season  plus a league-leading .468 on-base percentage (and 11 walks) and a .540 slugging percentage. Its this collection of skills that will make Soto a very rich man this offseason, even if he rankles some fans with his selectivity.

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China is expected to intensify efforts to facilitate a seamless payment mechanism for foreigners and the elderly, and create a more friendly, inclusive and multichannel payment environment, said experts and business leaders. This is not only part of the country's continued opening-up endeavor, but is also conducive to improving the payment infrastructure so as to accelerate the building of a unified domestic market, as well as boosting consumption and people's livelihoods, they said. The People's Bank of China, the country's central bank, and the Beijing municipal government jointly held a meeting on March 28 to enhance payment services, as part of the country's strong push to simplify the payment process for foreign visitors and improve the business climate. This came after the State Council, China's Cabinet, released a guideline that coordinated the efforts of various authorities on improving payment services and enhancing payment convenience on March 7, in order to better meet the diversified payment needs of the elderly and foreign visitors. The guideline, approved by the State Council executive meeting on Feb 23, called for coordinated efforts among authorities to promote the acceptance of foreign bank cards, guarantee the use of cash, improve mobile payment convenience, and further protect consumer rights while choosing payment methods and optimizing account services. The PBOC has outlined a timetable and roadmap for putting in place the relevant measures since then. On March 14, the PBOC released a payment guide, which provides foreigners with text and graphic instructions on using bank cards, cash, mobile payment and e-CNY in China. No identification is required for transactions below a certain amount when foreigners use mobile payments such as Alipay, Weixin Pay and UnionPay. Some international e-wallets, such as Thailand's True-Money, and Naver Pay, which are used frequently in South Korea, will be directly accepted by many merchants in China. Foreigners can also open bank accounts with passports or other valid IDs at major banks such as Industrial and Commercial Bank of China. During a meeting on March 15, the PBOC also called on financial institutions in Shanghai to accelerate efforts and amplify resources to achieve more progress in facilitating foreign bank card acceptance, cash usage, mobile payments and bank account services. Competitive market Liu Chunsheng, an associate professor at the Central University of Finance and Economics' School of International Trade and Economics, said the issue of payments is closely related to China's image and competitiveness in the international financial market. Recent efforts by the authorities and financial institutions will help remove various inconveniences and confusion encountered by foreigners staying in China. This is increasingly important as more foreigners will work or live in China amid the country's rapid economic development and deepened internationalization, he said. This is also a sign that China is devoted to promoting high-level opening up after the COVID-19 pandemic. The country is providing the world with more business opportunities and is ready to further open its market, Liu said. China Construction Bank said it has always adhered to the principle of "payment for the people "and attaches great importance to the construction of a payment infrastructure. The bank said it has been customizing services for the elderly, bridging the digital divide, and it also supports various valid identification documents for card issuance and usage by foreigners in China. Its ATMs accept foreign cards for cash withdrawals, and branches offer cash exchange services. The bank said it will continue to enhance foreign currency exchange capabilities, strengthen the acceptance environment for foreign card payments, and collaborate with UnionPay and international card organizations to set up innovative payment solutions and provide a more convenient consumer experience for foreigners in China. The State-owned lender said it aims to promote the development and complementary use of various payment methods, including mobile payments, bank cards, and cash, to build a compatible and synergistic payment service system. Dong Ximiao, chief researcher at Merchants Union Consumer Finance, said financial institutions and local governments are expected to further raise awareness on the issue and create a more open, inclusive, and diverse payment system and environment for all groups of people. "The choice of payment methods and the development of payment tools should fully consider the differences between urban and rural areas and among different groups. It should not only be measured by quantity or speed, but also should respect the usage habits and rights of different groups of people," Dong said. The inconvenience experienced by some foreign visitors can be mainly attributed to the differences in payment habits between China and other countries, he added. Dong called for China to further optimize the acceptance environment for foreign bank cards, and gradually increase the number of point-of-sale terminals accepting foreign cards in key cities and important business districts. International card organizations should reduce foreign card transaction fees and leave appropriate room for profitability for merchants, he said. Expanding foreign investors' access to domestic payment institutions and bank card clearing markets steadily will further enhance the competitive landscape in China's payment sector and help provide better payment experiences for both Chinese people and foreign visitors, he added. Ling Hai, president for the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Mastercard, also emphasized the importance of improving multiple payment channels to enhance payment convenience for inbound travelers. "The ecosystem in China has evolved into more digital wallet and QR-based, but that's not how the rest of the world works. For any inbound traveler, behaviors are very difficult to change, and that's a huge area still worth investment and development," Ling said. "We are getting a lot of support from the Chinese government and will work with other private players as well as banks in China to foster an ecosystem that's really friendly to inbound travelers." The service provider has enabled inbound acceptance via Alipay and Tencent wallets earlier this year, allowing international cardholders to pay like local people at QR code payment points while traveling across China. Mastercard NUCC Information Technology (Beijing) Co Ltd, a joint venture between Mastercard and NetsUnion Clearing Corp, also received formal approval from the PBOC late last year for domestic bank card clearing activity in the country, and launched the business recently. The development allows Mastercard cardholders in China to enjoy payment services provided by the company both at home and abroad.
SAN FRANCISCOExecutive producers Tim Valenti and Rhyheim Shabazz present 11 men in a series of hookups shot on location in Rio de Janeiro with Bareback in Brazil, the latest title from the NakedSword X Rhyheim production banner. Directed by Alternativa, the movie is available now on DVD and as a digital download at the Falcon|NakedSword store.

According to a company recap, "The man himself, Rhyheim Shabazz, starts off this never ending fuck fest by lifting Icarus entire body in the air as he pounds out the twinks hot hole. Horny jock Matthew Ellis then gets in on the action by having muscle stud Farley fuck his face and drill into his bubble butt. Next, showstopper Elijah Zayne and his big dick get in bed with eager bottom Curly Boy to rim and fill his perfectly tan-lined cheeks. With a raging hard-on stretching out his own underwear, Gael then joins the fun as he deep throats and opens his hole for Randhy Juniors oversized cock until his ass is covered in cum. This all leads up to a massive gangbang that finds hung fuckers Rhyheim Shabazz, Roxas Caelum, Marlon Costa, and Farley teaming up to fuck, d.p. and leave British Twunk covered in their piss and cum."

All episodes of Bareback in Brazil are now streaming on NakedSword.com and available for promotion through NakedSwordCash.com.



For DVD retail and wholesale purchasing, contact John Gunderson at [email protected]. Contact Cameron Greer at [email protected] for any additional information or artwork.
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Jon Penton-Robicheaux, center, passed on May 12, 2017 from liver failure after a battle with bacterial meningitis. He was 39. Here Jon and his husband Derek Penton-Robicheaux, second from right, are seen shouting "Liberty and Justice for ALL!" while saying the Pledge of Allegiance during the "Decision Day Rally for Marriage Equality" in Jackson Square in New Orleans, La. Friday, June 26, 2015. The rally was called after the U.S. Supreme Court 5-4 ruling allowing same sex marriage across the country. The couple was part of the historic same sex suit against the state of Louisiana's failure to recognize same-sex marriages called Robicheaux et al. v. Caldwell, referring to Buddy Caldwell the Louisiana Attorney General at the time.
Barnstaple in Bloom is inviting people to sponsor a floral tribute in memory of a loved one at some of the towns most iconic locations.

People are being offered the chance to sponsor a summer basket to remember a cherished loved one at special locations in the town such as the Queens Theatre, library and other venues.

Barnstaple will be bedecked with hanging baskets in floral splendour throughout the summer thanks to a small group of dedicated volunteers who restarted the towns entry to the annual South West in Bloom competition, part of Britain in Bloom run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

Above: Memorial baskets outside the Queens Theatre in Barnstaple. Credit: Barnstaple in Bloom

From May to October, visitors will see numerous hanging baskets filled with flowers along Butchers Row and many other town centre locations, some kindly sponsored by local businesses but a limited number set aside for memorial tributes.

The baskets are sold at not-for-profit rates in partnership with Barnstaple Town Council. A limited number of baskets are also allocated for birthdays and anniversaries.

With planting season upon us, Barnstaple in Bloom is appealing for businesses or anyone who would like to sponsor a memorial basket to get in touch as soon as possible.

Hilary Searle has sponsored a basket outside the Queens Theatre entrance in memory of her brother every year since he passed away.

She said: I dont need a label on it, but enjoy a private moment each time I go into the theatre or pass by knowing that he is remembered.

He loved the Queens Theatre and the baskets provided by Barnstaple in Bloom are absolutely gorgeous.

Frances Bell, chair Barnstaple in Bloom added: Memorial baskets support our work in the town centre and create joy and beauty for residents and visitors alike.

We are immensely grateful to those people who understand and appreciate the hours of volunteers work undertaken to improve our town who sponsor hanging baskets.

Memorial baskets are a lovely way of remembering a loved one and knowing that you have also supported the work of a charitable organisation is a bonus.

The current version of Barnstaple in Bloom restarted in 2021 by a small group determined to do something about the unkempt nature of the town during the Covid pandemic.

During lockdown, many residents restricted to their local area began to notice the state of streets and public areas, as well as the River Taw being full of junk such as trolleys and tyres.

Above: A Barnstaple in Bloom volunteer cleaning up street furniture. Credit: Barnstaple in Bloom

The volunteers began getting stuck in doing litter picks and liaising with town and district councils on more immediate issues that needed resolving.

The In Bloom effort has evolved from the days of huge iconic mass planting schemes of thousands of flowers paid by council tax.

Instead there is a focus on community involvement, the environment and sustainability, with the costs spread across a range of sponsorship, grants and fundraising.

This year hanging baskets are 52.50, with a size 16-inch bracket with high quality peat free compost.

If you would like to sponsor a basket in memory of a loved one or as a local business, please email treasurer@barnstapleinbloom.co.uk.
Worried Braunton residents have gathered together to express their concern on affordable housing in the area.

Over 70 residents met at Braunton Parish Hall on Saturday, April 6 and voiced their support for Braunton Community Land Trusts (CLT) campaign to construct affordable social rented housing for Braunton residents.

The meeting at the parish hall.

Mark Cann, Treasurer of the CLT, said: "Too many second homes and short-term holiday lets mean we have too few homes for local people to rent.

The CLT aims to build 25-30 homes for social rent, ensuring they remain available for local residents indefinitely.

However, the CLT's plans hit a roadblock due to Tesco's refusal to grant access along a service road to a potential site behind their Braunton store.

Roy Tomlinson, Chair of Braunton CLT, explained the situation and said: "We have the landowners agreement, the planners are supportive, but the site is only accessible by the road that runs behind the store. Tesco is refusing to give a right of way along that road to the potential site."

Mr Tomlinson urged Braunton residents to support the campaign to persuade Tesco to reconsider their stance.

A petition has been launched to pressure Tesco into allowing the development to proceed. Additionally, alternative locations were suggested during the meeting, prompting the petition to also call on North Devon Council to assist in identifying potential sites.

Rachel Danemann, who is the Home Builders Federation planning manager for the SW said: The solution to the housing crisis we face is to deliver enough, high quality, energy efficient homes to meet the needs of the local population.

Locally this would mean an up to date Local Plan detailing how to meet all the housing needs of North Devon, and a proactive can-do problem solving approach to determining planning applications.

Selaine Saxby, MP for North Devon commented: The lack of housing that is affordable to those who work in North Devon has been a problem since before I was elected, but has become far worse post pandemic.

I am the only MP to sit on the Devon Housing Commission which reports this summer, and has looked in depth at the challenges of housing across Devon, and visited North Devon last year. We need to build more homes that people can afford. There is great work in some villages with Community Land Trusts progressing, and the housing scheme within North Devon Hospital is due to go into planning shortly.

I have championed affordable housing projects where they fit in with the needs of that community. I would like to see more use made of derelict buildings, which are brownfield sites, and see far more urgency to bring empty properties and speed up redevelopment of sites like the Oliver Buildings and Lace Factory. More should be done to attract external investment into North Devon, but there does not always seem to be the political drive from the Lib Dem run District Council, home of the planning authority, to deliver the housing and infrastructure solution that local people need.

However, this issue is not just recognised in Braunton.

Torridge District Council also recognised the issue for affordable housing in North Devon.



Sean Kearney, Head of Communities and Place at Torridge District Council, has acknowledged the acute housing affordability challenge facing North +Devon, stating: "The Council is wholly sympathetic to the very challenging circumstances that this can result in for individual households."

Mr Kearney emphasised the council's commitment to addressing the wider issues of housing affordability and availability, noting: "The Council will continue to foster positive relationships with all partners and other stakeholders in order to remove barriers and facilitate the delivery of affordable housing."

He further reassured residents, saying: "There are a range of strategies, initiatives, and interventions that the Council is already using or exploring in order to facilitate the delivery of additional affordable housing."
Student Complaint Procedure

Northwestern University students may file a complaint with the University by following the complaint procedures outlined in the student handbook.

Students may also file a complaint with Northwestern University's accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) by following the HLC complaint procedure.

Online students residing in a SARA state or territory* should attempt to resolve grievances through Northwestern's institutional process for filing a complaint. If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of Northwestern's process, the complaint (except for those involving grades or student conduct violations) may be brought to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. For more information regarding the complaint process for students residing in SARA states, please visit the SARA website.

*Northwestern University is an institutional participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). SARA is a voluntary agreement among member states and U.S. territories that establishes comparable national standards for interstate offering of distance-education courses and programs. SARA membership includes all states with the exception of California, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more about SARA.

California

Online students residing in California may direct unresolved complaints to:

California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education

PO Box 980818

W. Sacramento, CA 95798-0818

bppe@dca.ca.gov

http://www.bppe.ca.gov/forms_pubs/complaint.pdf

District of Columbia

Pursuant to D.C. Official Code 38-1306(c)(4), complaints may be filed by students in the District of Columbia with the Higher Education Licensure Commission (HELC, Commission) against postsecondary educational institutions operating in the District of Columbia. See the HELC Public Complaints webpage for details of the HELC process.

For more information, please contact Mearah Quinn-Brauner, Senior Director for Strategy and Policy, at mearah@northwestern.edu.
Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is paying an official visit to the United States, during which he'll hold a summit with US President Joe Biden to reinforce their alliance, and attend the first trilateral US-Japan-Philippines leaders' summit with Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to advance a trilateral partnership.

The leaders of the United States, Japan and the Philippines will reaffirm the alliance and partnership commitments during the summit. Topics likely to be discussed include boosting deterrence and response capabilities of the US-Japan alliance, improving the command-and-control operations of Japan's Self-Defense Forces and US troops based in that country, and enhancing trilateral cooperation "to further peace and security in the Indo-Pacific and around the world."

The US military stationed in Japan has 88 dedicated bases, in addition to dozens of bases shared with the Japanese Self Defense Forces. Japan is preparing to set up a permanent joint command overseeing the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces by the end of March next year. Meanwhile, US government officials are considering giving the command of US forces based in Japan more authority to improve interoperability and readiness.

The United States legitimates its stationing military personnel and assets in Japan by hyping up the "China threat" theory. In recent years, the United States and Japan have been strengthening their military cooperation and publicly stating that this move is targeted at China. The United States affirms that the Diaoyu Islands fall within the scope of Article V of the US-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. Japan hosts approximately 55,000 US service members  the largest contingent of US forces outside the United States.

Many of the United States' most capable and advanced military assets are hosted in Japan, including the USS Ronald Reagan and F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. The government of Japan shares the costs of stationing US forces in Japan through the US-Japan Host Nation Support framework, which was extended through March 31, 2022. Negotiations for a new and expanded multi-year agreement are ongoing.

The "China threat" narratives also give Japan an excuse to shift its post-war security policy. Japan decided to increase the level of its defense budget to 2 percent of its current GDP from no more than 1 percent during 2022-2027, possess counterstrike capabilities, improve response capabilities in the field of cybersecurity and step up its defense posture in its southwest region.

These moves represent a historically critical transformation of Japan's security policy after World War II. Although proclaiming a defensive intent, Japan still needs to smooth US suspicions on its increasing military capacity by reiterating its acceptance of the US leadership, its unchanged post-war status as a peace-loving nation, and its unchanged foreign policy and continued will to be a "model citizen" of the world.

Besides strengthening their alliance partnership, the US and Japan are also reinforcing some multilateral coalitions, such as the QUAD and the US-Australia-Japan trilateral strategic dialogue. These groupings to realize a vision of the Indo-Pacific region have an intention to form coteries against China.

The most recent example of such endeavors will be the US-Japan-Philippines leaders' summit to be held on April 11 in Washington against the backdrop of heightened tensions between China and the Philippines, and a more provocative plan of joint naval patrols in the South China Sea, expected to be launched by the end of the year.

Not only do the Philippines have ulterior motives, but also Japan and the United States. By intervening in the situation in the South China Sea, the US and Japan will continuously strengthen security cooperation, and weave a military and security network that threatens and counteracts China's sovereignty in the South China Sea and stability in the Taiwan Straits. This will be a long-term military and security challenge facing China in the region.

Even so, the US and its allies in the Asia Pacific are most unlikely to form a bloc to contain China. The US alliance system in the Asia Pacific is structured differently from NATO in Europe. NATO is an organization built on a multilateral alliance treaty, according to which the members bear common obligations for collective security.

In comparison, the US alliance system in the Asia Pacific is a number of bilateral alliance treaties between the US and individual allies including Japan, Australia, South Korea, the Philippines and Thailand, all of whom have different nationally-oriented interests and considerations in security cooperation with the US, and don't bear security obligations toward each other.

Moreover, the US allies in the Asia Pacific seek autonomy on diplomatic and economic policies, so as to realize their own interests, and to enhance their voice and leverage in the region. Their accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is an example of such autonomy.

The US had a negative perception of the RCEP, maintaining that China would lead this trade arrangement. In this context, the US allies insisted on joining the RCEP instead of following the US in boycotting it. The US allies in the Asia Pacific cannot afford to leave the value chains with China in it. Remaining outside the RCEP, the US influence in the economy of the region is likely to be further reduced.

The US-Japan and the US-Philippines alliances cannot provide security to the region. Instead, they breed mistrust and instability. Alliances are private commitments between allies, rooted in the idea of a balance of power. However, as European history shows, war is often an essential mechanism for preserving a balance of power.

It is gravely disturbing that the US and its allies and partners cobble together exclusive groupings and stoke bloc confrontation to the detriment of peace and stability in the region. To ensure long-term peace and stability, the region needs to establish new principles of international relations, championing consultation over confrontation, partnership over alliance.

Openness and inclusiveness is the defining feature of Asia-Pacific cooperation, development for all is the overarching goal, and seeking common ground while shelving differences is the best practice. The region cannot and should not be an arena for geopolitical rivalry; still less should it be plunged into a new Cold War or camp-based confrontation.

The author Han Zhili, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a Professor of the Institute of Asian Studies, China Foreign Affairs University. (Source: CGTN)
VALPARAISO  Just moments after Shanda Crowe's older sister told the court Friday that no one ever holds Matthew Urquidi responsible for his actions, a Porter County judge rejected a plea agreement that would have allowed Urquidi to escape any further jail time in a domestic abuse case involving Crowe's death.

Porter Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Clymer rejected the proposed plea agreement, saying, "It's too lenient," and, "It's not justice."

Clymer told attorneys in the case that he would need to see some time behind bars, as well as drug, alcohol and anger management treatment and probation in order to consider another plea agreement.

In the meantime, he scheduled an Aug. 19 trial for Urquidi, who faces charges of criminal confinement, domestic battery, several counts of operating while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a crash.

Urquidi had struck a deal with a special prosecutor from Lake County to plead guilty to the criminal confinement charge in return for prosecutors dismissing the remaining counts and an entire other criminal case from October when he was on probation charging him with unlawful possession of a syringe, drugs and paraphernalia.

Urquidi faced no more than four years under the rejected agreement to be served, not in jail, but as part of the alternative offered by the Porter County PACT Program, records show.

Woman nabbed at jail with drugs hidden inside her body, police say Police said they dropped off the accused Thursday morning at the county jail and during intake, an officer noticed a blue plastic straw had fallen out of her shirt pocket.

The felony confinement charge alone typically carries a potential sentence of one to six years behind bars.

Urquidi admitted during his plea hearing in February that on June 9, 2021, he was involved in a verbal argument near Porter Beach with Crowe, 29, of Portage, records show.

He admitted to grabbing Crowe and forcing her into her vehicle against her will, according to the proposed plea. Urquidi said he drove off at a high rate of speed, during which time Crowe jumped from the moving vehicle and died from the injuries she suffered.

Police at the time said Crowe was found unresponsive alongside Waverly Road, north of the South Shore Line tracks and U.S. 12. The coroner's office reported she died as a result of blunt force trauma to her head and neck.

Police said Urquidi had been involved in a hit-and-run property damage crash farther north on Waverly Road, where a portion of his front bumper was found after he struck an inanimate object.

Driver flashes gun, crashes into vehicle during Porter County road rage, cops say "In the event of encountering an erratic, aggressive, or dangerous driver, its best to make note of the license plate number and vehicle details and then notify law enforcement without attempting to pursue or engage in any confrontation."

Urquidi was found at the time to have a blood alcohol content of about 0.17%, or twice the legal limit for driving, police said.

Crowe's young daughter, who told the court Friday that Urquidi was regularly violent with her mother and drank alcohol often, shared the immense pain she now suffers.

"I didn't get to say goodbye to her," the 13-year-old girl said. "That hurts a lot."

"I want my mom to be here with me," she said. "It's his fault. He was drunk. He was supposed to protect her, but he killed her."

A special prosecutor was appointed in the case because Urquidi is a former client of Gary Germann, now the Porter County prosecuting attorney.
Shelby kept her head low, hanging toward the back of the pen as potential buyers stopped to admire her.

Oh, shes a pretty one. Which papers are hers? an auction-goer asked at the Palmyra auction house on March 12.

Shelbys an impressive horse. Shes got a thick body, golden coat and a stark blond mane.

But only a few months ago, her coat was dull and her hip bones protruded. Her skin pulled tight over her ribs.

Shelby is one of a few dozen horses who narrowly survived severe malnourishment while in the care of a Southeast Nebraska veterinarian. She was seized by the Gage County Sheriff and moved to a Crete animal rescue after an estimated 17 horses owned by the vet died.

As Shelby regained weight, the animal neglect case stalled in the district court, frustrating local investigators, infuriating animal welfare advocates and driving Gage County residents to begin circulating a petition to recall the longtime county attorney.

In March, the 13-year-old horse sold for thousands  as did 36 other surviving horses  when she was auctioned off.

Despite the deaths, the two clinics owned by the veterinarian remain open. The state renewed Jennafer Glaesemanns veterinary license on April 1.

And when Shelby and the 36 others were auctioned off, most of the proceeds didnt go to the county, the animal rescue that nursed them back to health or to their continuing care.

Instead, the vet walked away with $113,000.

How did we get here?

Glaesemann bought Shelby in early 2022. She seemed a key addition to Glaesemanns breeding program, Blue Valley Quarter Horses.

Glaesemann, a licensed veterinarian in Nebraska, owns two clinics, Blue Valley Veterinary Clinic in Beatrice, where she operated her breeding business, and Pickrell Veterinary Clinic.

Her familys been in the area for generations. She grew up on her parents farm in Fairbury.

And shes cared for Southeast Nebraska animals since 2011, operating a vet practice that attracted attention long before the animal neglect case.

In 2015, Nebraskas attorney general determined that Glaesemann did not meet the standard of care when performing surgery on two separate animals. One died. The other needed a second surgery from another vet. The state eventually placed Glaesemann on a year-long disciplinary probation ending in June 2019.

After her probation, Glaesemann began to quickly grow her collection of breeding horses. When she bought Shelby in 2022, she was already pregnant with a pedigreed foal.

Around the same time, Glaesemann stopped paying property taxes on two Gage County parcels. One of the properties was put up for a tax sale due to the delinquent taxes.

The next summer, the Gage County Sheriffs Office started to get concerning calls.

People reported seeing skinny horses. Some of them were laying down, unmoving.

Between June and August, the department investigated 12 reports of animal neglect at Glaesemanns veterinary clinics, police records show.

Around that time, Gage County was preparing the fairgrounds, which adjoin Glaesemanns Beatrice clinic, for the county fair. Workers and locals complained of a foul smell and an ungodly amount of flies.

Police went to investigate, and found approximately 11 rotting horse carcasses dumped together in one of Glaesemanns fields. With her cooperation, they hired a local excavation company to dig a large trench and bury the horses before the fair.

By mid-August, police estimated a total of 17 horses had died on the veterinarians property. The department executed another search warrant to seize the remaining animals.

Immediately after the seizure, the American Quarter Horse Association revoked Glaesemanns membership and her breeding businesss registration.

The reports of inhumane treatment, neglect, condition and deaths of horses involved in this case are deeply concerning to AQHA, spokeswoman Kyla Jones said in a statement.

Glaesemann declined to be interviewed for this story.

Sheriff Millard Gustafson was also concerned by what he and his deputies found. In an interview, he said they occasionally saw bales of hay and buckets of water near the horses, but there wasnt enough space or grass for grazing.

In the complaint, C.J. Fell, a livestock investigator for the Nebraska Brand Committee, assessed the living horses and found most to be extremely emaciated, with bones prominently visible.

Glaesemann told police that she had lost employees and assistance, court records show, and that she was basically the sole provider of care for the horses.

Police cited Glaesemann for 39 misdemeanor animal neglect charges and took the remaining horses, after seizing that number of horses from her clinics and other properties, Gustafson said.

My priority was to get the animals away from Glaesemanns possession, and we did, Gage County Attorney Roger Harris said.

Stalled out

After authorities seized the horses, they took them to Epona Horse Rescue in Crete.

Ideally, livestock seizures operate on a tight timeline, said David Rosengard of the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Nebraska law says the dispersal hearing should be held as soon as practicable to place animals in permanent homes immediately.

The Gage County Sheriffs Office seized Glaesemanns living horses on Aug. 17, and the hearing was scheduled on Sept. 5.

Glaesemann filed a motion that delayed the hearing for a month.

Then came more motions, and more delays.

The seized horses sat in limbo at Epona.

It shouldve never took that long. But that's not in my neck of the woods, said Gustafson, Gage Countys sheriff. That's the county attorney, he's the one that makes those decisions, about how they're gonna do it and let it drag on. So that's on him and what he wants to do with it.

Why did they die?

Harris ultimately decided against filing criminal charges against Glaesemann.

He told the Flatwater Free Press he decided not to press charges in part because some horses tested positive for equine parvovirus, so animal abuse could not be proved beyond reasonable doubt.

Of the 39 living horses, five tested positive for equine parvovirus antibodies, said Lin Guyton, owner of the rescue, meaning they were infected at some point.

Because equine parvovirus was discovered in 2018, experts are still researching the disease, and sometimes have conflicting opinions, Harris said. The county attorneys office consulted with veterinary schools and local animal husbandry experts to learn about the virus.

But parvovirus is fairly common, said Mason Jager, a veterinary pathologist who researches the virus at Cornell University. The vast majority are asymptomatic or mildly ill for a few days.

Very rarely, a horse can develop a fatal infection, which causes a rapid death from liver failure.

Weight loss is not considered a symptom of equine parvovirus, Jager said, because the disease is short-term.

The Gage County horses were all underweight, investigation records show, including horses that never tested positive for parvovirus.

After the horses were taken to the rescue, their conditions improved quickly with access to food, water, salt and minerals, Guyton said.

Two of the horses that died were necropsied at a University of Nebraska-Lincoln lab. The veterinarian who reviewed the results determined that they died of prolonged poor nutrition from neglect, court documents said.

Harris said that those same two necropsies showed liver failure, which led him to believe parvovirus could have killed them.

Harris didnt file charges because he felt there could be doubt that the vet abused the horses, he said. He didnt want to move on the civil case until he reached that decision.

They want my office to criminally prosecute somebody when it wasn't justified by the facts. Im not gonna do it, never have and never will, Harris told the Flatwater Free Press.

A community strained

Guytons rescue herd nearly doubled in size with the addition of the Gage County horses. It was a strain on her resources, she said, forcing her to rely heavily on volunteers and donations from the community.

As spring drew near, the donation money  some $75,000 raised  ran dry.

The situation reached a fever-pitch at the end of February. Guyton began billing the county directly for the horses care, $7,728 in January and another $16,095 the next month.

Shortly after she sent the county the first bill that wasnt covered by donations, the county attorney scheduled an auction for March 2.

Guyton had attempted to buy the horses outright, offering the county attorneys office up to $30,000 plus waiving Februarys bill.

Harris never responded.

My situation is if were forced to sell some animals like that, we're going to go to a public auction  everyones gonna have a chance at it Harris said.

The auction was ultimately canceled.

Over the next two weeks, Harris reached a deal with Glaesemann. The county would auction the horses, for real this time, on March 12, and she would turn over their registration papers.

As part of that deal, Glaesemann is not allowed to own horses in Gage County for two years. In exchange, Harris will not press criminal charges related to the estimated 17 horses that died or the 39 horses seized.

Residents of Gage County have expressed their frustration with the lack of criminal charges across social media, in-person protests and an email campaign. People have made personal accusations against Harris on Facebook and over the phone, he said, accusing him of having connections to Glaesemann.

He said hed never met Glaesemann before the case, and had never used her veterinary services.

I don't care whose names are on the reports as far as accused of crimes, Ill pursue it no matter who it is, Harris said.

Kerri Barnard Jones, a longtime Gage County resident and horse owner, filed a petition to recall Harris from his position as county attorney in the weeks following the auction.

Two years ago, Jones called in a report to Gage County police after she saw super malnourished horses on Glaesemanns property near the Kansas border, she said.

For Jones, Harris refusal to file criminal charges against Glaesemann was the final straw.

Hes made Gage County the laughingstock of Nebraska, Jones said. Its just embarrassing.

The petition is circulating now. Jones will have to gather signatures from around 2,300 registered Gage County voters over the coming weeks.

Other community members have focused their attention on Glaesemann.

Jim Luers, a former prosecutor for neighboring Lancaster County, filed an official complaint with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services concerning Glaesemanns veterinary license and the horses.

DHHS spokesman Allan Urlis said the department isnt allowed to provide any information surrounding a complaint or ongoing investigation.

That department renewed Glaesemanns license on April 1. Glaesemann is still a practicing veterinarian, and both her clinics have remained open throughout the case.

An auction, at last

On March 12, the stands at the Palmyra Livestock Market filled with people: Prospective buyers, spectators, TV reporters and a contingent of green-shirted Epona rescue volunteers, determined to help the rescue buy as many of the horses as possible.

Bidding proved fierce.

These horses are going for ridiculous prices, Guyton muttered to a rescue volunteer, dismayed because they were worth more after six months of rehabilitation at her rescue.

Most of the horses sold for $4,500 or more. Three went for $13,000 each. At a previous Palmyra Livestock Market sale, horses sold for between $475 and $3,900.

By auctions end, Guyton and her volunteers had bought about 19 of the Gage County horses, including Shelby. She estimated they spent more than $100,000.

In total, auction-goers spent around $185,000 on the horses.

Nebraska law requires the proceeds to go toward sale expenses, any unpaid costs of care and payments, and then go to anyone who has a lien on the animals.

After that, the leftover money goes to the animals owner.

Thats how Glaesemann received $113,128.75 after the unpaid care bill and her unpaid property taxes and other debts and collections were deducted.

Epona Horse Rescue will not be reimbursed for costs covered by donations.

Gage County shouldve billed Glaesemann for every month of care, whether or not they were covered by donations, Guyton said. She didnt know when they were collecting donations that it would end up this way.

People are pissed off on a whole new level, Guyton said.

Harris pushed back against donors who are now angry about the payout Glaesemann received. Its due process for civil forfeiture, he said. Donors should have considered where the money was going to go.

You take somebodys property in this country, theres an accounting that has to happen, Harris said. You got some people that dont believe that with this case. I scratch my head on that  I didnt realize Gage County had crossed over into China or something.

Most of the surviving horses at the center of this case will now be adopted out to new homes through the horse rescue. That includes Shelby. Shes doing well now, and Guyton is looking for a trustworthy and loving permanent home for her, she said.

Two of the horses that the rescue didnt manage to buy, a heavily pregnant mare and young stallion, are now living at a farm in Fairbury, visible from the road.

Kerri Barnard Jones, who is leading the push to recall Harris, drove by to see them after the auction. She knows the owner of the property: Glaesemanns mother.

Glaesemann is prohibited from owning horses in Gage County for two years. But her parents property is in Jefferson County.

There's a lot of people in this part of the country that are not going to let this go. Because this is horrific, Guyton said. Somebody has to care. There has got to be some justice for these horses.

The Flatwater Free Press is Nebraskas first independent, nonprofit newsroom focused on investigations and feature stories that matter.
President Biden plans to expand the perimeters of two national monuments in California, protecting mountains and meadows in a remote area between Napa and Mendocino as well as a rugged stretch east of Los Angeles, two people familiar with the administrations plans said Thursday.

The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument will each get new boundaries designed to protect land of cultural significance to Native American tribes, as well as biodiversity and wildlife corridors, said the people, who asked not to be named because they were not authorized to discuss the plans publicly.

The San Gabriel monument encompasses 342,177 acres of the Angeles National Forest and 4,002 acres of neighboring San Bernardino National Forest. Mr. Biden intends to expand the monument by approximately 110,000 acres.

The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument includes nearly 331,000 acres of protected land in parts of Napa, Yolo, Solano, Lake, Colusa, Glenn and Mendocino counties. It would be expanded by about 13,753 acres under Mr. Bidens plan.
A judge on Thursday denied a request for the conditional release of a Wisconsin woman who stabbed a middle-school friend 19 times a decade ago, when they were both 12, in a crime that she later said was carried out to impress a sinister fictional figure named Slender Man.

In January, Morgan Geyser, 21, requested early release from her 40-year commitment to the Winnebago Mental Health Institute in Oshkosh, Wis., where she has been held since 2018, petitioning Judge Michael O. Bohren of Waukesha County Circuit Court to consider whether she represented a threat to herself or others.

After hearing testimony from three experts and the director of the institute, Judge Bohren decided that there was significant risk that Ms. Geyser would harm herself or others, and that she should remain institutionalized.

Ms. Geyser, who appeared in court on Wednesday in an orange shirt and pants, her wrists in shackles, had no immediate comment. Her lawyer, Anthony Cotton, said he would file another petition for conditional release in six months, the minimum time frame allowed under Wisconsin state law.
It would become an indelible memory for those who could not help but watch and watch and watch: a white Ford Bronco steadily traveling along the cleared freeways of Southern California, a trail of police cars not far behind.

Its passenger, of course, was O.J. Simpson, and the two-hour chase on June 17, 1994, that interrupted regular programming transfixed a nation.

I watched it until it ended. I wasnt getting off the TV. Who was getting off the TV on a chase like that? said Richard Smith, 67, who gathered that day with his family to see it all unfold on television in their South Los Angeles apartment.

The saga of Mr. Simpson, from the chase to the criminal trial to the aftermath, would be followed, debated and dissected closely by millions, etching itself into Los Angeles history and thrusting the city into what seemed the center of the universe.
For decades, Dr. J. Steve Bynon Jr., a transplant surgeon in Texas, gained accolades and national prominence for his work, including by helping to enforce professional standards in the countrys sprawling organ transplant system.

But officials are now investigating allegations that Dr. Bynon was secretly manipulating a government database to make some of his own patients ineligible to receive new livers, potentially depriving them of lifesaving care.

Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in Houston, where Dr. Bynon oversaw both the liver and kidney transplant programs, abruptly shut down those programs in the past week while looking into the allegations.

On Thursday, the medical center, a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Texas, said in a statement that a doctor in its liver transplant program had admitted to changing patient records. That effectively denied the transplants, the hospital said. An official with knowledge of the investigation identified the physician as Dr. Bynon, who is employed by the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and has had a contract to lead Memorial Hermanns abdominal transplant program since 2011.
Welcome to Best of Late Night, a rundown of the previous nights highlights that lets you sleep  and lets us get paid to watch comedy. Here are the 50 best movies on Netflix right now.

Hush Money Monday

Former President Donald Trumps first criminal trial starts on Monday, despite several failed efforts to have it delayed.

His only move left is to have sex with everyone in the court and pay them $130,000 to keep their mouth shut, Jimmy Kimmel said on Thursday.
Tyler Starrett was on vacation with his family in Pigeon Forge, about 35 miles from Knoxville in eastern Tennessee, when they learned on Thursday that O.J. Simpson had died.

So they changed plans. They had heard that one of the key artifacts of the Simpson case happened to be on display nearby at the Alcatraz East Crime Museum: the 1993 white Ford Bronco that Simpson fled from the police in, just days after the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson, his former wife, and Ronald L. Goldman. They could not resist.

If the Bronco is here in Pigeon Forge, why dont we go see it? Starrett, 23, said.

Starrett is too young to have been among the 95 million television viewers who watched the low-speed chase unfold on June 17, 1994, when a swarm of police cars followed the white Bronco over some 60 miles of Southern California freeways, with Simpson holding a gun to his head in the back seat. But he was among those who visited the museum to see the vehicle in person on Thursday, as a three-minute clip of the police chase played on loop in the background.

Pigeon Forge, best known for Dollywood, Dolly Partons theme park, is at first glance not an obvious home for such a relic. But in recent years, this town has increasingly become a place for attractions and museums dedicated to the offbeat and believe-it-or-not interests of an American tourist  including the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, which is housed in a prisonlike building designed to be a cross between the Tennessee State Prison just outside Nashville and the original Alcatraz, in San Francisco Bay.
Fears of an Iranian strike drew a U.S. general to Israel

The U.S. sent its top military commander for the Middle East to Israel to discuss a widely expected retaliatory attack from Iran, officials said.

Irans leaders have repeatedly vowed to punish Israel for an April 1 strike in Syria that killed several senior Iranian commanders. Israel has put its military on alert, and President Biden said that Iran was threatening a significant attack. Gen. Michael Kurilla, the American commander, will also discuss the war in Gaza and humanitarian aid operations there.

Biden, who has become increasingly critical of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus conduct of the Gaza war, said that American support for Israel in the face of danger from Iran was ironclad.

Netanyahu said that his country was prepared for other challenges. We have determined a simple rule: Whoever harms us, we will harm them, he said.
Arthur Mensch, tall and lean with a flop of unkempt hair, arrived for a speech last month at a sprawling tech hub in Paris wearing jeans and carrying a bicycle helmet. He had an unassuming look for a person European officials are counting on to help propel the region into a high-stakes match with the United States and China over artificial intelligence.

Mr. Mensch, 31, is the chief executive and a founder of Mistral, considered by many to be one of the most promising challengers to OpenAI and Google. You have become the poster child for A.I. in France, Matt Clifford, a British investor, told him onstage.

A lot is riding on Mr. Mensch, whose company has shot into the spotlight just a year after he founded it in Paris with two college friends. As Europe scrambles to get a foothold in the A.I. revolution, the French government has singled out Mistral as its best hope to create a standard-bearer, and has lobbied European Union policymakers to help ensure the firms success.

Artificial intelligence will be built rapidly into the global economy in the coming decade, and policymakers and business leaders in Europe fear that growth and competitiveness will suffer if the region does not keep up. Behind their worries is a conviction that A.I. should not be dominated by tech giants, like Microsoft and Google, that might forge global standards at odds with the culture and politics of other countries. At stake is the bigger question of which artificial intelligence models will wind up influencing the world, and how they should be regulated.
Endorsing an antisemitic post on X. Withholding Starlink satellite internet service from Ukraine to prevent a drone attack on Russian forces. Reposting conspiracy theorists who claim that the Biden administrations immigration policies are part of a plot to increase the number of people who vote Democrat.

Elon Musks behavior and public statements have clearly offended many people, especially left-leaning consumers who are the most likely to buy an electric vehicle.

As a business reporter who covers Tesla, the company that Mr. Musk is chief executive of, Im exploring to what extent his public persona is damaging the companys brand and hurting sales. Or, as Mr. Musk has insisted, do people choose the best car regardless of what the chief executive says and does?

If you own a Tesla, are thinking of buying one or have thought about buying one but ultimately chose another brand, Id like to hear from you.
Robert MacNeil, the Canadian-born journalist who delivered sober evening newscasts for more than two decades on PBS as the co-anchor of The MacNeil/Lehrer Report, later expanded as The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour, died early Friday in Manhattan. He was 93.

His death, at NewYorkPresbyterian Hospital, was confirmed by his daughter Alison MacNeil.

Mr. MacNeil spent time at NBC News early in his career and was a reporter for the network in Dallas on the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. But he came to reject the flashier style of the commercial American networks, and in 1971 he joined the fledgling Public Broadcasting Service.

He brought with him a news sensibility honed at the BBC, where he had worked in the interim, and became a key figure in shaping U.S. public televisions in-depth and evenhanded approach to news coverage.

A pairing with Jim Lehrer in 1973 to cover the Senate Watergate hearings for PBS was unpopular with the operators of many local public stations, who thought the prime-time broadcasts werent appropriate evening fare. But the two mens serious demeanor was a hit with viewers, and the broadcasts won an Emmy Award and eventually launched an enduring collaboration.
A climate-controlled sausage. New trousers labeled recycled. A sustainable airline ticket.

More and more, big brands are using taglines like these to cater to their green-minded customers. And more and more, they are under fire from courts and regulators for making climate promises they cant keep.

Researchers at the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment last year identified an explosion of climate-washing cases, using existing national laws and regulations. Between 2020 and 2022, the most recent year for which statistics are available, the number of cases challenging the truthfulness of corporate climate commitments" more than doubled, their tally found.

This year, this dynamic is playing out in several countries.

In Denmark, a national court in March told Danish Crown, the countrys biggest pork producer, that its misleading to label its pork climate-controlled, though it declared that its fine to assert that Danish pigs are more climate friendly than you think. The company announced last week that it would no longer use either phrase.

In Britain, also in March, the Competition and Markets Authority, a regulatory agency, looked into the climate claims of several fast-fashion brands and concluded that its misleading to stamp a green leaf on a product and call it recycled, without specifying how much of its content is actually recycled.
Roberto Cavalli, the Italian fashion designer who celebrated glamour and excess, sending models down the runway and actresses onto red carpets wearing leopard-print dresses, bejeweled distressed jeans, satin corsets and other unapologetically flashy clothes, has died. He was 83.

His company announced the death on Instagram but provided no details.

Mr. Cavallis signature style  molto sexy, molto animal print and molto, molto Italiano, as the British newspaper The Independent once described it  remained essentially unchanged throughout his long career. But he skillfully reinvented his clothes for different eras, enjoying several renaissances and building a global lifestyle brand in the process.

In the 1970s, Mr. Cavalli designed jackets, jeans and minidresses made from patchwork denim, selling his upscale hippie frocks in a boutique in St. Tropez, on the French Riviera, to actresses like Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren.

For the next two decades, he remained largely unknown outside Europe. Then, in the 1990s, he reinvented luxury denim, first with the sandblasted look and then, in a stroke of invention, by putting Lycra in jeans to make them fit snugger and sexier. When the model Naomi Campbell wore a pair during a runway show in 1993, stretch jeans became a huge trend.
When Luchino Visconti first saw Alain Delon, he is said to have cried out, Its him! Visconti had found his Rocco, the tragic, tender soul of his next film, the 1960 family drama Rocco and His Brothers. One of the founders of Italian neorealism, Visconti apparently didnt bother introducing himself to the young French actor. Perhaps he was tending to the tears that I like to think fell from his eyes when he saw his future star. I like to think thats how everyone reacts when they initially see Delon, whose beauty has long inspired paroxysms of rapture.

This is, after all, a star whose looks over the years have been described as sensual though also insolent, cruel, self-absorbed and androgynous, a word that helps explain why his beauty  as with that of other men whose looks threaten tidy gender norms  makes some viewers uneasy even as it sends others into ecstasy. (My mother had to put a sign on my pram, Delon once said, You can look, but you cant touch!) You may want to break out your thesaurus to find your own mot juste to describe Delon, now 88: A selective series that includes Rocco and 10 of his other films (hes made scores more), opens Friday in New York at Film Forum.
The store was called Holiday Candy Convenience. But to the local councilwoman, Gale Brewer, it was simply No. 23  an entry on an oversize spreadsheet tracking the explosion of unlicensed cannabis stores in her district since New York legalized the drug in 2021.

An aide, Sam Goldsmith, inspected the shelves, stocked with flavored vapes and edibles. These guys are currently out of compliance with absolutely everything, he muttered before moving on to the next shop.
Before her trip to New York a few weeks ago, Lisa Pires, a South African living in Amsterdam, encountered a series of videos on TikTok in which young women had filmed themselves after getting attacked on the street in New York. Most were punched in the face  unprovoked, at random  in Manhattan south of Midtown and during the day. I remember thinking it sounded so absurd that it couldnt really have been a thing, Ms. Pires, who comes to the city often, told me recently.

Many others appeared to share her reaction. Women were calling City Council members, wanting to know if the videos were part of a prank, social media having complicated the relationship between the reality of crime and the perception of its prevalence. The beauty of an accuser all too often breeds suspicion, however prejudicially, especially if the accuser is a TikTok influencer with more than a million followers. In this instance, the tousled blond hair, long nails and laugh-crying on view in one of the most watched videos surely helped sow doubt on a take rendered in a bracing Clueless argot (literally I fell to the ground and this giant goose egg is forming on my head and Im like oh, my God, Halley McGookin said into her iPhone). On March 27, the Councils Womens Caucus issued a statement confirming that reports of these attacks were not a hoax but instead part of an alarming trend in violence against women.

Despite her skepticism, Ms. Pires made a note to be vigilant when she was in New York. Heading to lunch on a bright and chilly afternoon at the end of last week, she was standing at an intersection on Delancey Street waiting for the light to change when she noticed a man, walking in the opposite direction, studying her. She registered that he was quite well dressed, but almost nothing else made an impression.

Before she knew it he struck her with his fist, hitting her on the right side of her head. He fled uptown on Essex Street. She reported the incident at the Seventh Precinct, where a detective told her that these type of attacks had become kind of a big deal at the moment. She was left with swelling in her ear; her face turned black and blue.
The leaders of public schools in New York City and Montgomery County, Md., will testify about how their districts are handling antisemitism before a congressional committee next month. It will be the first time that K-12 districts have taken center stage in the House hearings focused on how schools are responding to a wave of student protests since Hamass attacks against Israel on Oct. 7.

At least one other district was also invited to attend the hearing on May 8, according to the New York City schools chancellor, David C. Banks, who will be testifying. A spokesman for the House Committee on Education and the Workforce confirmed that the two districts were asked to attend the hearing, but did not identify any others.

The earlier congressional hearings helped trigger the resignations of the presidents of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania. Columbia Universitys president is appearing before a congressional committee next week.

Now, representatives appear to be expanding their scope beyond higher education. The inquiry next month will offer a window into how the tensions on American college campuses are also stirring painful debates in public school communities.
Along the Atlantic coast, about 60 miles south of Manhattan, is a beach town that defies the rowdy image of the Jersey Shore.

In Ocean Grove, where the beach has been controlled by a conservative Christian nonprofit for more than 150 years, no alcohol is sold. The Christian flag, a white banner with a red cross, flies beneath an American flag near the beach. Two wooden crosses stand in the sand. A massive pier in the shape of a cross was unveiled last year.

And perhaps most notably, in Ocean Grove, where the welcome sign calls the community Gods Square Mile, the beach is closed before noon on Sundays.

Next week, a New Jersey court will wrestle with the beach closure and whether the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, which owns the property, has the right to impose religiously motivated restrictions on the public.
Donald J. Trump, having failed to fend off a criminal trial in Manhattan that begins on Monday, said that he planned to testify in the case stemming from a hush-money payment to a porn star.

Taking questions Friday from reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla., Mr. Trump, when asked whether he would take the stand, responded that he would.

Im testifying. I tell the truth, he said, standing just off a sunny patio of the private club with Speaker Mike Johnson behind him. I mean, all I can do is tell the truth. And the truth is that theres no case. They have no case.

A spokeswoman for the Manhattan district attorneys office, which has charged Mr. Trump with 34 felonies, declined to comment on his remarks.
Debby Herbenick is one of the foremost researchers on American sexual behavior. The director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion at Indiana University and the author of the pointedly titled book Yes, Your Kid, she usually shares her data, no matter how explicit, without judgment. So I was surprised by how concerned she seemed when we checked in on Zoom recently: I havent often felt so strongly about getting research out there, she told me. But this is lifesaving.

For the past four years, Dr. Herbenick has been tracking the rapid rise of rough sex among college students, particularly sexual strangulation, or what is colloquially referred to as choking. Nearly two-thirds of women in her most recent campus-representative survey of 5,000 students at an anonymized major Midwestern university said a partner had choked them during sex (one-third in their most recent encounter). The rate of those women who said they were between the ages 12 and 17 the first time that happened had shot up to 40 percent from one in four.

As someone whos been writing for well over a decade about young peoples attitudes and early experience with sex in all its forms, Id also begun clocking this phenomenon. I was initially startled in early 2020 when, during a post-talk Q. and A. at an independent high school, a 16-year-old girl asked, How come boys all want to choke you? In a different class, a 15-year-old boy wanted to know, Why do girls all want to be choked? They do? Not long after, a college sophomore (and longtime interview subject) contacted me after her roommate came home in tears because a hookup partner, without warning, had put both hands on her throat and squeezed.

I started to ask more, and the stories piled up. Another sophomore confided that she enjoyed being choked by her boyfriend, though it was important for a partner to be properly educated  pressing on the sides of the neck, for example, rather than the trachea. (Note: There is no safe way to strangle someone.) A male freshman said girls expected to be choked and, even though he didnt want to do it, refusing would make him seem like a simp. And a senior in high school was angry that her friends called her vanilla when she complained that her boyfriend had choked her.
Sarah Kristine Wood moved to Barcelona, Spain, in February 2022 to live her dream.

I had a strong feeling I needed to be in Barcelona, said Ms. Wood, 27, who had studied there in college. She grew up in Brighton, Mich., and left her high-pressured job on the trading floor at Goldman Sachs in New York behind. I had a conviction I would have a Spanish husband.

That March, she matched with Gustavo Adolfo Gonzalez Leal, 32, who was born in Caracas, Venezuela, on the Bumble dating app, and pre-warned him that she was both a vegan and gave up alcohol a year earlier.

He was unfazed. Those two things were not a problem, Mr. Gonzalez said. That requires a lot of commitment, not to fall into social pressure.

But, storm clouds quickly gathered once he let slip that he lived in Madrid. (He had added Barcelona in the apps vacation mode for a potential trip.)
Montanas only underground coal mine could shut down by the end of 2025 if it can't expand onto federal land.

Thats what Signal Peak Energy President and CEO Parker Phipps told Yellowstone County Commissioners on Thursday.

The Bull Mountain mine south of Roundup now employs about 260 workers. About two thirds of them live in Yellowstone County.

Phipps said the mine is facing potential closure after a federal judge blocked Signal Peak from beginning a 175-million-ton expansion into coal on federal land. U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy halted it in February 2023 until the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement studies the environmental impacts of the mine, located 40 miles north of Billings.

Federal regulators will not only have to complete an Environmental Impact Study of the expansion, but also estimate the impact of greenhouse emissions.

The mine is in jeopardy, Phipps said.

Signal Peak has filed a lawsuit seeking a timely review from OSMRE. Phipps said a pause in production is not an option. With 99% of the coal shipped to Asia, he said, a delay could cause Signal Peak to lose customers as well as competitive rail and port spots.

The mine has paid more than $211 million in taxes to Montana and Yellowstone and Musselshell counties in the past three years, according to a summary that executives provided to the commissioners. They estimate it will add $59.9 million to state and local coffers in 2024 and 2025.

The mine also pays about $45 million annually in wages, taxes and benefits for workers, said Signal Peaks Vice President and Controller Cliff Pinkerton.

But, without the federal permit, he said, the company does not expect to mine the remaining coal on state trust land, which benefits Montana schools.

About $47 million of tax revenues generated by the mine went into Montanas public education system in the past three years. If regulators dont allow Signal Peak to mine federal coal, the state can expect zeros in 2024 and 2025, Phipps said.

Its difficult for me to believe that the Office of Surface Mining cant get their work done in a timely fashion and with this administration, it appears to be almost intentional, Commissioner John Ostlund said. You need to sue them and if we can help you with that, Id be an advocate. They need to follow the same rules and the same playing field as we do.

Phipps said Signal Peak will continue fighting to keep the mine operational.
At the University of Tennessee, the campus D.E.I. program is now called the Division of Access and Engagement.

Louisiana State University also rebranded its diversity office after Jeff Landry, a Trump-backed Republican, was elected governor last fall. Its Division of Inclusion, Civil Rights and Title IX is now called the Division of Engagement, Civil Rights and Title IX.

And at the University of Oklahoma, the diversity office is now the Division of Access and Opportunity.

In what appears to be an effort to placate or, even head fake, opponents of diversity and equity programs, university officials are relaunching their D.E.I. offices under different names, changing the titles of officials, and rewriting requirements to eliminate words like diversity and equity. In some cases, only the words have changed.
Heavy rainfall in parts of Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia prompted warnings of overflowing rivers and creeks on Friday, as authorities dealt with the aftermath of a storm that had forced road closures and rescues of people stranded in flooded streets.

During the 18-hour period that started around 5:30 p.m. Thursday, a 60-mile-wide band of rain swept from the easternmost tip of Kentucky across the Pittsburgh area and over Dunkirk, N.Y., on the Lake Erie shore, letting loose from 1.25 to more than four inches of rain, said Lee Hendricks, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh.

Washington and Allegheny Counties in Western Pennsylvania got most of it, he said.

Jonathan DeBor, the council president in Oakdale Borough, in Allegheny County, said the flooding there was the worst since the flood during Ivan in 2004, which was the worst in the history of the town.

He was referring to Hurricane Ivan, which dumped up to seven inches of rain in the central areas of the state.
A former United States ambassador accused of working for decades as a secret agent for Cuba in one of the biggest national security breaches in years pleaded guilty on Friday and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Manuel Rocha, 73, pleaded guilty to two charges  conspiring to defraud the United States as a foreign agent and failing to register as a foreign agent  as part of an agreement with the federal government. He also faces three years of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.

Mr. Rocha, wearing a beige prison uniform and black glasses, conceded before he was sentenced to the betrayal of my oath of loyalty to the United States during my two decades in the State Department.

During my formative years in college, I was heavily influenced by the radical politics of the day, said Mr. Rocha, who prosecutors said was recruited by Cuban intelligence agents in 1973. Today, I no longer see the world through the radical eyes of my youth.
Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Arizona on Friday to assail former President Donald J. Trump over abortion restrictions, with plans to blame him for bans in the state and across the country.

In her remarks at a rally in Tucson, Ms. Harris will lean into the Biden campaigns new attack line on laws pushed by Republicans that have cut off abortion access for millions of American women: Donald Trump did this.

She is also planning a new way to hit the former president, arguing that a second Trump administration would enforce the Comstock Act, a rarely used federal law from 1873, to circumvent Congress and ban medication abortion nationwide.

They want to use another law from the 1800s  the Comstock Act  to ban medication abortion in all 50 states, Ms. Harris is expected to say in Tucson, according to Biden campaign aides. A ban that would include states where abortion is currently legal.
A coalition of a dozen liberal organizations and labor unions sent a letter to the White House on Thursday night demanding that President Biden end military aid to Israel until its government lifts restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza, the latest indicator of shifting mainstream Democratic opinion on the war.

The group includes not only progressive groups like MoveOn and the Working Families Party, but also the mainstream Democratic Center for American Progress and NextGen America, the organization founded and funded by Tom Steyer, a billionaire who ran for president in the 2020 Democratic primary. Other signatories to the letter include the Service Employees International Union and the National Education Association, labor unions that make up key elements of the Democratic Party.

The letter calls on Mr. Biden to enforce the Foreign Assistance Act, which bars military support from going to any nation that restricts the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Support for Palestinians, a cause once largely championed on college campuses and in communities with ties to the region, has transformed into a defining issue of the Democratic left, galvanizing a broad swath of groups into the most significant protest movement of the Biden era.

Through daily organizing sessions on Zoom and grass-roots campaigning in battleground states, a sprawling new iteration of the pro-Palestinian movement is now propelled both by longtime  and sometimes hard-line  activists and by mainstream pillars of the Democratic coalition.

Organizations that are usually focused on climate, housing or immigration are regularly protesting Israels military campaign in Gaza, which followed the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attack and has killed more than 33,000 people, according to local officials.

Labor activists are calling for a cease-fire. Black clergy leaders have appealed directly to the White House. Young Americans are using online tools to mobilize voters and send millions of missives to Congress. And an emerging coalition of advocacy groups is discussing how to press its case at the Democratic National Convention this summer.
President Biden canceled $7.4 billion in student loan debt on Friday as he tries to shore up support with young voters who are disproportionately affected by soaring education costs, but who may be drifting away over his policy on Israel and the war in Gaza.

The latest round of relief is part of a strategy by the White House to take smaller, targeted actions for certain subsets of borrowers after the Supreme Court struck down a far more ambitious plan to wipe out $400 billion in debt last year.

Mr. Biden said this week that he would make another attempt at large-scale debt forgiveness for about 30 million people, despite Republican opposition and legal challenges. But in the meantime, he has been chipping away at student debt by fixing and streamlining existing programs that have been plagued by bureaucratic and other problems for years.

Fridays announcement was the latest such move, affecting around 277,000 people. White House officials said those borrowers would be notified by email that day.
Lawyers for co-defendants of former President Donald J. Trump argued in federal court in Florida on Friday to dismiss charges of aiding in the obstruction of efforts to recover classified documents.

It was a rare hearing of the documents case in which Mr. Trump did not take center stage. His co-defendants, Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, are loyal Trump employees, accused of conspiring with the former president to hide boxes containing classified government materials after Mr. Trump left office.

Prosecutors also accused them of plotting to destroy security camera footage of the boxes being moved.

Judge Aileen M. Cannon considered the defense lawyers arguments in her Fort Pierce, Fla., courtroom but ended the two-hour hearing Friday without making a decision on whether the charges against the two men should be dismissed. She also did not announce a date for the trial to begin, despite holding a hearing more than a month ago on the matter.
A man stole a semitrailer in Texas on Friday and, after a police pursuit, crashed it into a state government office where he had been denied a commercial drivers license the day before, killing one person and injuring 13 others, the authorities said.

Sgt. Justin Ruiz of the Texas Department of Public Safety said at a news conference that the driver, Clenard Parker, had stolen the truck, and after a police pursuit drove the vehicle into the office in Brenham, Texas, a small city about 75 miles northwest of Houston. Mr. Parker, 42, of Chappell Hill, Texas, was not injured, and was taken into custody by several officers.

Mr. Parker had been to the office the previous day, Sergeant Ruiz said, and was told that he was not eligible to renew his commercial drivers license.

Sergeant Ruiz described a winding police pursuit in which Mr. Parker drove the stolen truck westbound on a highway, and then turned around to go back east.
The dean of Berkeleys law school is known as a staunch supporter of free speech, but things became personal for him when pro-Palestinian students disrupted a celebratory dinner party for some 60 students at his home.

Erwin Chemerinsky, the law school dean, hosted the dinner on Tuesday night in the backyard of his Oakland, Calif., home. The party was supposed to be a community building event, open to all third-year law students, with no speeches or formal activities.

But a third-year law student and a Palestinian activist, Malak Afaneh, stood up at the event, holding a microphone, and launched into a speech.

As she began to talk, Mr. Chemerinsky, a noted Constitutional scholar, can be seen shouting, Please leave our house! You are guests in our house!
A new transitional ruling council was finalized in Haiti on Friday to try to bring political stability to a country wracked by escalating gang violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The councils formation, announced in an official state-run bulletin, comes after gangs who have a brutal grip on much of the capital prevented the prime minister, Ariel Henry, from returning to the country after a trip overseas and ultimately pushed him to announce his resignation.

The presidential transition council is tasked with restoring law and order through the appointment of an acting prime minister to head a new government as well as to pave the way for the election of a new president.

A coalition of armed gangs has had control of most of the capital, Port-au-Prince, since it launched an offensive in late February, destroying police stations and government offices, looting banks and hospitals and killing and kidnapping hundreds of people.
President Bidens effort to build American security alliances in Chinas backyard is likely to reinforce the Chinese leader Xi Jinpings view that Washington is leading an all-out campaign of containment, encirclement and suppression of his country. And there is not much Mr. Xi can do about it.

To China, Mr. Bidens campaign looks nothing short of a reprise of the Cold War, when the world was split into opposing blocs. In this view, Beijing is being hemmed in by U.S. allies and partners, in a cordon stretching over the seas on Chinas eastern coast from Japan to the Philippines, along its disputed Himalayan border with India, and even across the vast Pacific Ocean to a string of tiny, but strategic, island nations.

That pressure on China expanded Thursday when Mr. Biden hosted the leaders of Japan and the Philippines at the White House, marking the first-ever trilateral summit between the countries. American officials said the meeting was aimed at projecting a united front against Chinas increasingly aggressive behavior against the Philippines in the South China Sea and against Japan in the East China Sea. Mr. Biden described Americas commitment to defense agreements with Japan and the Philippines as ironclad.

The summit ended with agreements to hold more naval and coast guard joint exercises, and pledges of new infrastructure investment and technology cooperation. It builds on a groundbreaking defense pact made at Camp David last August between Mr. Biden and the leaders of Japan and South Korea, as well as on plans unveiled last year to work with Australia and Britain to develop and deploy nuclear-powered attack submarines.
Resistance forces seeking to oust Myanmars military regime captured a key trade town on the Thai border this week, one of their most significant gains since the junta seized power in a coup more than three years ago. But thousands of residents were fleeing on Friday as the regimes troops prepared to mount a counteroffensive.

The town, Myawaddy, which is now held by rebels belonging to the Karen ethnic group, is a hub for imports and exports, with $1 billion in trade last year. Its fall comes as resistance forces have seized dozens of towns and military outposts in recent months in border regions near China and Bangladesh. Rebel groups have also launched drones that hit the capital, Naypyidaw, and military bases when top junta generals were visiting.

A major border trade hub that serves as Myanmars gateway to mainland Southeast Asia has fallen to the resistance, said Anthony Davis, a Bangkok-based security analyst with the Janes group of military publications. This is huge.

The regimes spokesman, Gen. Zaw Min Tun, declined to take repeated calls from The New York Times. But he acknowledged to the BBC Burmese service on Thursday night that junta troops had evacuated their main base in Myawaddy and that soldiers from two resistance groups, the Karen National Liberation Army and the Karen National Army, are present in the town.
The Australia Letter is a weekly newsletter from our Australia bureau. Sign up to get it by email. This weeks issue is written by Julia Bergin, a reporter based in the Northern Territory.

Eyes closed, head raised, leaning back against the polished stone of the Old Physics Building on the campus of the University of Melbourne, Marie Elena Ellis paused briefly to breathe in the sunshine before heading back indoors to resume talking about publishing.

Ms. Ellis, a Central Australian Arrernte and Warlpiri author and publisher, recently joined a six-month fellowship program with the University of Melbourne, both to to learn about mainstream Western publishing and to offer other participants the context of an Indigenous approach to the same activity.

One challenge? Getting used to being inside so much.

Im not used to sitting in a dog box, said Ms. Ellis, as she showed a room of Melbourne academics pictures of her own office back home  the Ilparpa Claypans wilderness reserve, all red dirt and shallow water. There I can think, she said.

The goal for the University of Melbourne, said Sandra Phillips, a publishing professor and Wakka Wakka and Gooreng Gooreng woman, is that the two-way exchange will help the mainstream publishing industry examine its own assumptions and practices.
When Russian tanks first rolled into Ukraine more than two years ago, Artem Vradii was sure his business was bound to suffer.

Who would think about coffee in this situation? thought Mr. Vradii, the co-founder of a Kyiv coffee roastery named Mad Heads. Nobody would care.

But over the next few days after the invasion began, he started receiving messages from Ukrainian soldiers. One asked for bags of ground coffee because he could not stand the energy drinks supplied by the army. Another simply requested beans: He had taken his own grinder to the front.

I was really shocked, Mr. Vradii said in a recent interview at his roastery, a 40-foot-high brick building buzzing with the sound of grinding coffee and filled with the smell of freshly ground beans. Despite the war, people were still thinking about coffee. They could leave their homes, their habits. But they could not live without coffee.
Iran is expected to mount an attack soon on Israel, but not on the United States or its military forces, when Tehran retaliates for an Israeli bombing in Damascus, Syria, that killed several senior Iranian commanders, U.S. and Iranian officials said on Friday.

American intelligence analysts and officials think Iran will strike multiple targets inside Israel within the next few days, three U.S. officials said, speaking on anonymity to talk about sensitive matters they were not authorized to discuss publicly. Officials did not indicate what form the attack would take, what kinds of targets would be involved and the precise timing  information that is very closely guarded among senior Iranians.

The United States, Israels pre-eminent ally, has military forces in several places across the Middle East, but Iran likely will not target them to avoid inciting a direct conflict with the United States, according to Iranian officials, who similarly insisted on remaining anonymous, and the American officials.

In the first months of the war between Israel and Hamas, Iran-backed militias regularly attacked U.S. troops in Iraq, Syria and Jordan. But after a drone strike killed three Americans in Jordan in January, and the United States launched retaliatory strikes, Iran stopped the attacks by its proxies, fearing a more powerful U.S. response. Despite the clashes and hostile rhetoric, both Iranian and U.S. leaders have made it clear they want to avoid all-out war.

Iran has publicly and repeatedly vowed revenge for the April 1 strike on its embassy complex in Damascus that killed three generals and four other officers of its elite Quds Force, the foreign military and intelligence arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. But analysts say Iranian leaders want to calibrate their response so it is big enough to impress, at home and abroad, that Iran is not impotent in the face of conflict, but not so big that it spirals into a full-fledged war with Israel or draws an American attack.

How Israel would respond to an Iranian attack on its soil is unclear. The Israeli military continues to monitor closely what is happening in Iran and different arenas, Herzi Halevi, chief of the Israeli general staff, said in a statement on Friday. He added, Our forces are prepared and ready at all times and for any scenario.
A high court in Argentina ruled on Thursday that Iran was the mastermind of the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires that killed 85 people, potentially paving the way for relatives of victims to make claims against the country in international tribunals.

While Argentine investigators have long believed that Iranian operatives and high-ranking officials played key roles in the attacks, the decision this week by Argentinas second-highest tribunal goes further by holding the Iranian state itself responsible.

The ruling also characterized Iran as a terrorist state at a moment when tensions are running particularly high between Iran and Israel. Iran has repeatedly said it will launch an attack against Israel in retaliation for a recent bombing in Syria that killed several top Iranian commanders.

The 1994 attack in Buenos Aires was organized, planned, financed and executed under the direction of the authorities of the Islamic State of Iran, within the framework of Islamic Jihad, said the ruling by the three-member court that declared the attack a crime against humanity.

The court said the attack itself was carried out by Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group.

The judges said Tehran was also to blame for the 1992 bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires that killed 22 people. The attacks were carried out in retaliation for the Argentine governments decision to cancel contracts to provide nuclear material to Iran, according to the ruling.

Iran has steadfastly denied any involvement in the attacks.

The verdict reaffirms what the Argentine justice system has been asserting through numerous rulings for decades, the Argentine Jewish Mutual Aid Association, whose building was the target of the attack, said in a statement.

Its the position weve always upheld, said Jorge Knoblovits, the head of an association that represents more than 100 Jewish organizations in Argentina. The Islamic Republic of Iran was the one responsible for all of this.

The court ruling said a state can be held responsible for financing and planning a terrorist attack even if it was carried out by nonstate actors.

The ruling opens the door for relatives of victims to pursue claims against Iran in international tribunals, Mr. Knoblovits said, though it was unclear if a case could be brought before the International Court of Justice, the U.N.s highest judicial body, or elsewhere.

Were currently analyzing that, he said.

The ruling is the latest twist in an investigation that has been mired by accusations of coverups and plagued by controversy.

In 2015, a special prosecutor was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head shortly after he accused then-President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and other top officials of conspiring with Iran to cover up its involvement in the community-center attack. The former president has repeatedly denied the accusations.

The government of right-wing President Javier Milei, who came into office in December and is a strong ally of Israel, hailed Thursdays ruling, saying it brought an end to decades of delays and coverups.
American intelligence analysts and officials said on Friday that they expected Iran to strike multiple targets inside Israel within the next few days in retaliation for an Israeli bombing in the Syrian capital on April 1 that killed several senior Iranian commanders.

The United States, Israels pre-eminent ally, has military forces in several places across the Middle East. But Iran is not expected to target them in order to avoid a direct conflict with the United States, according to U.S. and Iranian officials who spoke anonymously about the expected attacks, which they were not authorized to discuss publicly.

Any Iranian strike inside Israel would be a watershed moment in the decades of hostilities between the two nations that would most likely open a volatile new chapter in the region. Israel and Iran do not maintain any direct channels of communication, making the chances far greater that each side could misread the others intentions. And an Iranian attack would heighten the risk of a wider conflict that could drag in multiple countries, including the United States.

In remarks to reporters on Friday, President Biden said that he expected a military attack against Israel sooner than later, and that his message to Iran was dont.
The start of a direct military confrontation between Iran and Israel has brought renewed attention to Irans armed forces. Early this month, Israel attacked a building in Irans diplomatic compound in the Syrian capital, Damascus, killing seven of Irans senior commanders and military personnel.

Iran vowed to retaliate, and did so about two weeks later, starting a broad aerial attack on Israel on Saturday involving hundreds of drones and missiles aimed at targets inside Israel and the territory it controls.

Heres a look at Irans military and its capabilities.

Why is Irans military relevant right now?

Israeli officials had said they would respond to any attack by Iran with a counterattack, which could prompt further retaliation from Iran and possibly expand into a wider regional war. There is even a chance that a conflict of that sort could drag in the United States, although Washington has made clear it had nothing to do with the Damascus attack.

Analysts say that Irans adversaries, primarily the United States and Israel, have avoided direct military strikes on Iran for decades, not wishing to tangle with Tehrans complex military apparatus. Instead, Israel and Iran have been engaged in a long shadow war via air, sea, land and cyberattacks, and Israel has covertly targeted military and nuclear facilities inside Iran and killed commanders and scientists.
Israeli forces were on high alert on Friday in anticipation of a retaliatory strike by Iran or its proxies, which analysts and officials warned could spur an Israeli reaction and potentially provoke a broader conflict in the region.

Iran is expected to launch an attack as soon as this weekend in retaliation for an April 1 airstrike, in which warplanes struck an Iranian Embassy building in Damascus, killing three generals and other commanders, U.S. and Iranian officials said on Friday.

Military analysts said neither Israel nor Iran appeared interested in provoking a full-blown war that could draw in the United States, but that a miscalculation about either sides red lines could result in an escalation in hostilities.

An Iranian response was inevitable given the high profile of one of the generals killed in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a top commander in Irans Quds Force, the analysts said.

For every wise player, there comes a moment when the cost-benefit calculation shifts and all strategies are reset, said Mahdi Mohammadi, the chief adviser to Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Irans Parliament. For Iran, that moment was the attack in Damascus.

Israel expects Iran to strike in a way that allows it to save face, but is measured enough to not arouse an even fiercer counterstrike, analysts say. The Iranians dont want a total war, said Amos Gilead, a retired Israeli general. So they might attack targets that would enable them to declare that theyve achieved a great victory.
Commentary: Xi's meeting with Ma injects positive energy to relations across Taiwan Strait

Xinhua) 08:01, April 12, 2024

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Ma Ying-jeou in Beijing, capital of China, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The recent meeting of Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, with a Taiwan delegation led by Ma Ying-jeou has injected stability and positive energy into the relations across the Taiwan Strait.

Wednesday's meeting in Beijing marked the first time Xi had received Taiwan compatriots and delivered an important speech since the 20th CPC National Congress in late 2022.

The meeting took place amidst a complex and challenging situation in the Taiwan Strait. "Taiwan independence" separatists, in collusion with external forces, have made provocations to seek independence, further escalating tensions in the Strait.

Xi's speech, filled with deep affection and goodwill towards Taiwan compatriots, will surely further unite compatriots on both sides of the Strait to achieve national reunification.

Throughout its development journey, the Chinese nation has created a history demonstrating the inseparable connection between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Although the mainland and Taiwan are yet to be reunified, the fact that both belong to one China and one nation has never changed, and national reunification remains an irreversible trend.

Confronted with the activities of "Taiwan independence" separatists colluding with foreign forces to undermine the development of their shared homeland, every member of the Chinese nation must unite in resolve to oppose and crack down on such actions.

Compatriots across the Taiwan Strait should join hands to create a bright future of peaceful reunification, firmly holding the destiny of the Chinese nation in their own hands.

During the meeting, Xi emphasized that improving the well-being of people across the Strait is the driving force and objective behind efforts to advance cross-Strait relations.

He underscored the mainland's genuine sincerity and goodwill in benefiting Taiwan compatriots.

The mainland will continue enhancing systems and policies aimed at improving the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, maintaining its commitment to ensuring a better life for people on both sides of the Strait.

The mainland has always kept its doors open to Taiwan compatriots, actively fostering cross-Strait exchanges, interactions, and mutual understanding.

It also unites all sectors of Taiwan society for concerted efforts to eliminate political obstacles and facilitate normal and regular exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in advancing cross-Strait relations, the mainland will implement more vigorous policies and measures to facilitate the sound development and success of youth across the Taiwan Strait.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
On April 10th, a German delegation from the Social Democratic Party (SPD) Economic Forum, led by Matthias Machnig, Vice President of the SPD Economic Forum and former State Secretary of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, visited Anhui. The delegation was accompanied by officials from the China Economic Cooperation Center of International Liaison Department, the Foreign Affairs Office of Anhui Provincial People's Government, and relevant officials from Hefei Municipal Government. Over the years, Anhui has actively participated in pragmatic cooperation between China and Germany and has achieved fruitful results in areas such as sister cities construction, industrial cooperation, and cultural exchanges. As early as 1984, Anhui established a friendly provincial-state relationship with Lower Saxony, Germany. In recent years, the Volkswagen Group has established its new energy vehicle manufacturing center in Anhui and set up its only new energy vehicle research and innovation center outside of its headquarters, in Hefei. Germany has become Hefei's second-largest trading partner within the European Union. Hefei has also established friendly relationships with four German cities, namely Osnabruck, Rostock, Cottbus, and Stralsund. During the visit, the delegation visited the Volkswagen (Anhui) Research and Development Center and NIO Automobile to gain firsthand knowledge of the latest achievements in Anhui's new energy vehicle industry. Subsequently, in the China-Germany International Meeting Room, the delegation held discussions with Hefei enterprises on topics such as new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence, and biomedicine, engaging in in-depth exchanges and sharing opinions on deepening bilateral industrial cooperation. Machnig expressed his appreciation for Anhui's development. He stated that Anhui has achieved rapid economic development, remarkable achievements, numerous highlights, and impressive progress. In the new era, facing new challenges, he hopes that both sides can seize opportunities, strengthen exchanges and communication, identify common ground, establish a fair, just, and transparent cooperation mechanism, and promote a mutually beneficial and win-win development situation. Source: anhuinews.com
Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were highly alert for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government had restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they should consider leaving Israel and the Palestinian territories if it is safe to do so. On Friday, India told its citizens not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice, while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning, Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days. He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas out of an abundance of caution until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.
IN a passionate condemnation of the government's inaction, local area representative for Birr Muncipal District with Aontu, Aubrey Claffey, has brought attention to a startling revelation uncovered through an Aontu parliamentary question. The inquiry has revealed that a staggering 85% of deportation orders issued by the government have gone unimplemented.

Recent findings reveal this information, including a secret Department of Justice briefing paper, warning of the urgent need to resume deportation due to the majority of international asylum applicants being economic migrants. When Aontu pressed on the whereabouts of individuals who failed the asylum process and were supposed to be deported, Justice Minister Helen McEntee admitted she did not know their whereabouts and was lacking knowledge on the matter.

"The revelation of the government's failure to action 85% of deportation orders is deeply troubling and alarming and is causing fear and anxiousness among communities across Ireland. It is imperative that this matter be addressed urgently to restore faith in our immigration system and uphold the rule of law," said Mr Claffey.

Mr Claffey reiterated Aontu's steadfast commitment to advocating for responsible and effective immigration policies.

Furthermore, Aubrey Claffey seeks further clarification on what percentage of the aforementioned 85% pertains specifically to individuals within the Birr Municipal District.

"As a local area representative with Aontu, Aubrey remains resolute in bringing this to the table on an ongoing basis as it is a major concern for the people of the Birr Municipal District. The government cannot quietly ignore this any further. 85% makes for harrowing reading," concluded Mr Claffey.
This month's Offaly History lecture is entitled From hovels to homes: housing conditions and public housing in Tullamore, 1900-1945 and will be given by Dr Peter Connell.

The lecture takes place at Offaly History Centre, Bury Quay, Tullamore, R35 Y5V0 at 8 pm on Monday, April 15 next.

You can attend in person or via Zoom - for link email info@offalyhistory.com

At the end of World War II in 1945, 35% or over one-third of private dwellings in Tullamore town had been built by the local urban council.

Over the course of forty years, the towns housing stock had been transformed from one where hundreds of families lived in over-crowded, dark and insanitary lanes and streets to one where the great majority of the towns population had the benefit of running water, flush toilets and adequate living space.

The lecture will outline housing conditions in Tullamore in the early years of the twentieth and compare them to conditions in other Irish and British towns. The focus then turns to the various Housing Acts, from the Housing of the Working Classes Act passed in Westminster in 1890 to the 1932 Act passed by the new Fianna Fail government.

These acts provided the legislative framework through which Tullamore Urban Council could provide public housing. Their implementation, of course, was shaped by politics and economics, both national and local.

The lecture will explore this context, describing how the Irish Parliamentary Party dominated local politics in the early years the century, how the state and the local council struggled to address the housing crisis in the 1920s and how the Fianna Fail building programme of the 1930s focused on a public health agenda and on what was called slum clearance.

Over 200 condemned houses were demolished in these years with residents offered tenancies in new estates in Callary St, OMolloy St and Park Avenue. The lecture will conclude with an assessment of forty years of council housing in Tullamore, its achievements and failures and how Tullamore compared to other Irish provincial towns.

Peter Connell is a native of Navan and has been living in Co Kildare for the past forty years. He is involved in local history in Meath, acting as convenor of the Meath History Workshop, co-editor of Navan Its People and Its Past, the journal of the Navan and District Historical Society and, since 2015, as editor of Riocht na Midhe, the journal of the Meath Archaeological and Historical Society.

In 2004, his book, The land and people of County Meath, 1750-1850 was published by Fourt Courts Press and he has also contributed to various books and journals on topics ranging from the Great Famine to the history of the public library service. In 2017 he completed a PhD in the History Department in Trinity College Dublin on the provision of public housing in Ireland, 1890-1945.
Two sisters pleaded guilty to shoplifting from two different stores in Tullamore on the same day.

One of the two women who came before the local District Court also admitted stealing from Tesco less than a month before the other offences.

Kathleen McDonagh (40), Chancery Close, Tullamore and Margaret Kavanagh (52), of the same address, both admitted stealing a Morphy Richards kettle and a fireguard from Woodie's, Cloncollig on January 21 last. The items were worth a total of 100.

On the same date they stole curtains and a throw blanket from Harry Corry, Cloncollig, valued at another 100.

Ms McDonagh further admitted to driving without a licence and insurance at the Tullamore Retail Park car park on January 21 last.

Separately, Ms McDonagh entered a guilty plea to a charge of stealing 133.02 of groceries and alcohol from Tesco in Tullamore on December 24, 2023.

Judge Andrew Cody was told that Ms Kavanagh had been seen on CCTV and the property was recovered after gardai obtained a search warrant.

Ms Kavanagh had no previous convictions and was a lone parent with medical difficulties in the family.

She had been under a lot of pressure, was on medication, had attended with the Money Advice and Budgeting Service and had taken in her sister to live with her, along with her sister's children.

The court was assured she would not be troubling the gardai again and Judge Cody imposed the Probation Act, noting that it was her first offence.

Judge Cody was told that Ms McDonagh had used the self service area in Tesco for the theft from that store and while she paid for some of the items, she did not pay for 133 worth.

Sergeant Richard Thornton told the court Ms McDonagh had 20 previous convictions, including several for theft and others for public order and road traffic offences.

She had been disqualified from driving for four years in 2018. She had since disposed of the car used at Tullamore Retail Park.

Defending solicitor Tony McLynn said Ms McDonagh had a chequered past and she certainly had difficulties in her personal life.

She had come from a difficult home situation and moved in with her sister but since then had moved to Newcastlewest to live with her father.

She apologised for the thefts and in relation to driving without insurance, she had limited financial means and was in a difficult housing situation.

Mr McLynn said some of the stolen items had been recovered and added that the woman was prepared to do community service.

He said she had serious mental health difficulties and had been an in-patient and because life wasn't easy for her he asked the court to give her a chance.

Judge Cody said there was an ongoing issue with theft; this would be her third conviction for driving without insurance, and the Woodies and Harry Corry thefts were three weeks after the Tesco one. What's going to put a stop to driving without insurance and stealing? asked the judge.

Mr McLynn said she was now living with her father and was engaging with the mental health services.

Judge Cody imposed two three-month suspended sentences and one six-month suspended sentence, ruling that though suspended for two years, they were consecutive sentences.

She has 12 months hanging over her, he warned. He also disqualified her from driving for 10 years.
Life often costs more when youre single, making rises in bills even tougher to absorb.

Some 8.3 million people across the UK were living alone in 2022, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures.

More than half of the total was made up of 4.4 million women, while 3.9 million men were also living alone.

A recently-released Family Resources Survey from the ONS also found that, in the financial year 2022/23, among single working-age adults with no children, nearly a third (32%) of men and 27% of women reported either no savings or investments.

Lone parents were also particularly likely to have less than 1,500 in savings according to the ONS research  45% reported this level of savings and a further 36% reported having no savings.

Shona Lowe, financial planning expert at abrdn says its no surprise the extra costs are sometimes dubbed the singles tax.

Here, Lowe shares some tips to help make some savings:

1. Keep tabs on your money.

Lowe suggests putting time aside each month to check bank statements.

The main source of income for many will be their employment, but it could also include refunds and payments from friends where you picked up the bill, says Lowe.

Making sure everything is there that should be is the foundation for the rest of your financial decision-making.

When looking at regular payments, such as subscriptions, make sure you understand how often they come out, whether its monthly, quarterly or annually.

Understand what expenditure is essential for you and what is optional, says Lowe.

This is about prioritising and will help you to choose an amount you can realistically afford to save each month, and set yourself a specific goal that will allow you to measure your progress and check if youre on track.

If you really dont want to ditch a subscription, there might be ways to make it cheaper. For example, some gyms offer discounts for NHS workers. Or it might be more cost-effective to take out an annual subscription rather than paying monthly.

Lowe says going through payments should be treated as an essential element of your monthly self-care routine.

To make the process simpler, she says: There are lots of free money-management apps you can download that could be a convenient and powerful way to track your saving and spending habits and think about money in the right way. Alternatively, some current account providers offer useful online tools to keep tabs on your spending, so its worth seeing whats on offer.

2. Understand your tax position.

The new tax year has just got underway, and Lowe says: Part of understanding your income means understanding your tax code, which determines how much of your income will be free from tax.

People can check how to claim a tax refund at GOV.UK.

Lowe adds: If youve underpaid, you want to sort that out as quickly as possible so that you dont build up a large tax bill.

3. Get discounts and support.

Lowe suggests those living in a single-person household make sure they are getting any council tax discounts theyre entitled to.

She also suggests considering a water meter to help you stop flushing money down the drain.

People will need to weigh up the pros and cons of water meters to decide whats right for them.

Water companies also offer social tariffs for eligible customers, to help reduce their water bills. You could find out more by contacting your company.

Some people living alone may also be particularly vulnerable if they have extra communication, access or safety needs.

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is free to join and helps utility firms such as energy suppliers, electricity, gas and water networks to support customers.

4. Club together with friends.

While there are lots of deals out there that cater to couples, some brands have either added additional options for singles, or offer the ability to use couples deals with friends, says Lowe.

She highlights the Two Together railcard as an example. Some holiday firms will also offer solo traveller discounts.

Businesses such as retailers and gyms will also sometimes offer discounts for introducing a friend.

5. Take advantage of top-ups and allowances.

Lowe says top-ups and tax allowances can play a big part in making your money work harder for you.

She suggests getting to grips with workplace pensions and making the most of employer contributions as well as tax relief.

If youre saving for a first home, the Lifetime ISA, which comes with a government bonus, could give you a helping hand onto the property ladder.

ISAs generally are ring-fenced from tax, helping money saved into them to grow.

Lowe adds: Taking these simple saving steps can give you free money so if theyre right for you, dont miss out.

6. Be ready for emergencies.

No-one is immune from unwelcome surprises when it comes to finances and if youre footing the bill solo, its even more important not to get caught out, says Lowe.

Ensuring you have an emergency savings buffer to fall back on is really important.

She adds: When choosing where to put your emergency savings, consider what else you might need from your account, like unlimited or flexible withdrawals, easy access and online banking.
Dianne Buswells new favourite place to unwind comes with tremendous health benefits  including better sleep.

I very recently got myself a sauna, which I use before I go to bed, which gives me the best nights sleep Ive ever had in my life, says the Australian dancer, 34, who joined the Strictly Come Dancing professional line-up in 2017.

I also try hard to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night, especially as Ive gotten older.

But like many of us, Buswell admits shes also guilty of looking at her phone before bed.

Its something Im trying to do less of and Im getting better at. We use our phones so much  if we could just put it aside, charge it in a different room or away from your bed so you can still hear your alarm, we would all have better sleep routines.

The self-confessed wellness enthusiast  Buswell launched a wellness YouTube channel in 2020 called Buswellness, and last year published her book, Move Yourself Happy: 21 Days To Make Joyful Movement A Habit  swears by the importance of good sleep. Not only is it vital for staying energised, it helps her feel and look her best too.

As an ambassador for dry shampoo brand Batiste too, shes constantly thinking about how she can make the most of her time with a busy schedule.

Here, Buswell talks us through her beauty secrets, including why she prioritises skincare, and how she maintains her fiery red hair

What is your skincare routine?

I use a skincare brand called New Nordic, which is a beautiful product. I use three main products from their hyaluronic acid range religiously daily, and then take a Hyaluronic Shot as well, she says.

Its changed my skin dramatically, tastes very citrusy and is quite nice. I always say to people that it tastes like that bit at the end of an ice lolly  I say icy pole.

Shes also religious when it comes to removing make-up at the end of the day, especially with the type of work that she does. I tend to use micellar water  my favourite thing. Its quite gentle and takes off a lot of the eye make-up, which is usually quite heavy when dancing. But also I use Cliniques Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm alongside my cleanser, she says.

Thats all I use on my skin. In the past, I would use so many different things but never stuck to a regime. With this, I feel I can stick to it and see results because Im doing it religiously.

How do you maintain the health of your signature red hair?

I use the new Batiste 24-hour Dry Shampoo, which has sweat-activated technology, because Im so busy and also have extensions in my hair, says Buswell.

Ive had red hair for about 10 years now. Im a hairdresser by trade, though I havent done it in a salon for many, many years. But when I was hairdressing, I literally had every single colour you could imagine.

I had blonde, I had black, I had brown, I had black with red stripes, I had black with blonde streaks  it was just like that hairdresser thing where youre just constantly changing the colour of your hair.

And then, when I started dancing on stage, I went from jet black to honey blonde. And then I got bored  so I put a red dye over it one day and was like, I kind of like this, and then it stuck. Everyone was like, Oh my god  red really suits you and works with your eyes.

Then since I went on Strictly Come Dancing, Ive been known as the girl with red hair. But I have just recently done the roots for like a little bit of depth in there, which I like.

Did going red change how you saw yourself?

When I did go red, I felt like it was me. When I was on stage, I felt like I had a real identity and felt powerful. I think anything that you can do that makes you feel powerful and good, go for it, because it really did that for me, says Buswell. I genuinely started to dance differently. I felt more confident.

How do you maintain the colour?

The maintenance is not too  maybe at first, as it would wash out very quickly, but not so much now. I use a red-based conditioner in a pink bottle from Sallys, and every time I wash my hair, I just pump that in and work through my ends to keep my hair nice and fresh. Im not constantly dying it.

What are your favourite make-up items?

I love Charlotte Tilburys Hollywood Flawless Filter foundation. Im obsessed with that. I also like the Iconic London undereye concealer and Essence mascara  they are probably one of the cheapest out there.

When do you feel most beautiful?

Its when I feel the most confident  especially mentally. Its not even about the way I look. I could be having a breakout, but if Im mentally feeling good, I feel the most beautiful, says Buswell.

Sometimes we are so invested in how we look and being perfect. But its how our brain is thinking that is important. It can change everything.



Dianne Buswell is brand ambassador for Batiste 24H Active Sweat-Activated Dry Shampoo.
Dear North Dakota, do you think you might be a Southern state?

Initially that might appear to be a crazy question, given North Dakotas geographical location and all. However, before you scoff at the idea, lets examine some facts.

And, lets temporarily set aside anything having to do with humidity, a drawl, sipping sweet tea, eating grits and, of course, the big gorilla in the room, the history of slavery. North Dakota knows nothing about any of the above.

But aside from all that, I think youll agree that North Dakota has much more in common with Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Alabama than Massachusetts, New York, Vermont and Connecticut.

Fortunately, there are a lot of measuring devices to determine whether North Dakota should categorize itself as a Southern state. For example, if you can answer yes to most of the following questions, you are a Southern state, whether you like it or not:

Do you occasionally see Dale Earnhardt tribute stickers on cars in your state? And did your grandaddy wear overalls and your grandmother always wear an apron?

Do you eat fried chicken after church on most Sundays? In the summer, do you often have homegrown tomatoes with meals? And do most of the men in your state consider the opening day of deer hunting to be a national holiday?

Do you consider 10 cars backed up behind an oil truck to be a traffic jam? Do your kids ride a school bus for at least an hour a day? And have you ever switched from heat to air conditioning on the same day?

Do you often see a pickup truck running in a parking lot with no one in it, no matter the time of year? And when someone asks you how your trip to Europe was, do you say, It was different?

Do you always carry jumper cables in your vehicle? Do you know what cow tipping is? Do you chew or does someone in your family chew? Plus, do you know a girl who chews?

Do you call soda "pop"? Do you clean your fingernails with a knife? Do you own more than three shirts with the sleeves cut off? And are your Christmas lights still up?

And when you give someone directions, do you often include a truck stop, mailbox, tree, grain elevator or an abandoned vehicle? Do you upgrade your grill every year? Is your license plate too dirty to read? And is a bottle of beer at least one dollar cheaper in your town than in Minneapolis?

Plus, does your daughters child live with you? Does your new bride seldom wear shoes in the summer? Do more than 50% of the men in North Dakota wear cowboy or steel-toed boots? And are there more pickup trucks than cars?

Of course, this test is in no way meant to degrade Southern states. After all, Ive spent a lot of time in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles, and nothing about them resembles Fargo and Bismarck.

But heres the ultimate test: Can you get away with insulting or gossiping about someone if you preface it by saying, Well bless his/her heart, but did you know that ...

Yup, thats the ultimate test.
Sri Lanka Navy intercepts two fishing trawlers carrying 200 kg of narcotics

Posted by Editor on April 12, 2024 - 6:53 pm

Sri Lanka Navy has seized two multi-day fishing trawlers off the southern coast of the island, intercepting approximately 200 kg of drugs suspected to be heroin and crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as Ice.

The operation led to the arrest of 10 crew members aboard these vessels.

They are currently being escorted to Galle Harbour and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation, according to a navy spokesperson.
Ukraine's gambling authority, KRAIL, evaluates 194 license requests as discussions surface about restricting military personnel's access to online gambling.

The Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries in Ukraine has processed 194 gambling license applications in the first quarter of 2024, granting the majority, even as the nation considers prohibiting soldiers from engaging in online gambling activities.

Licensing Surge in Ukraine's Gambling Sector

During the initial months of 2024, KRAIL has seen a substantial influx of license applications, with 152 approvals out of 194 requests. The bulk of these, 138, were for gaming machines, indicating a growing interest in expanding gaming operations within Ukraine. In addition to gaming machine licenses, KRAIL also issued licenses for three gambling service providers, nine gaming tables, and uniquely, one online casino and one roulette gaming table.

Despite the high approval rate, there were instances where applications faltered; two were rejected due to inadequate documentation, and one application was directly refused by KRAIL. This stringent vetting process underscores KRAIL's commitment to maintaining a regulated and transparent gambling environment.

Potential Ban on Military Gambling

The quarter also spotlighted a significant societal issue, with President Volodymyr Zelensky pondering a ban on online gambling for military personnel. This consideration came after a Ukrainian soldier's petition highlighted the detrimental effects of gambling on soldiers, such as incurring debt. The proposed ban reflects a broader initiative to tighten controls over the gambling industry, aiming to safeguard societal interests and the wellbeing of military personnel.

Tackling the Black Market

KRAIL's efforts extend beyond processing licenses to combating the black market presence in Ukraine. Notably, a significant percentage of unlicensed operators ceased Ukrainian operations following regulatory intervention, demonstrating KRAIL's effectiveness in curbing illegal gambling activities. These actions, coupled with significant seizures from gambling operators for tax evasion, highlight the regulator's proactive stance against non-compliance and tax evasion within the industry.

Uncertain Future for KRAIL

Despite its achievements, KRAIL faces uncertainty about its future role and structure. Proposals suggest replacing KRAIL with a new regulatory body to address licensing delays and enhance regulatory efficiency. Challenges, such as the mobilization of KRAIL members for military service, have hindered the regulator's ability to conduct meetings and process license applications promptly, emphasizing the need for organizational restructuring.

Conclusion

As Ukraine's gambling sector continues to evolve, KRAIL remains at the forefront, navigating through licensing surges, potential regulatory changes, and societal impacts. The proposed military gambling ban and the fight against illegal operators underline the complex interplay between regulation, societal welfare, and industry growth. With discussions about KRAIL's future ongoing, the industry awaits further developments that will shape the landscape of gambling regulation in Ukraine.
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"Either this nation shall kill racism, or racism shall kill this nation." (S. Jonas, August, 2018)

"A Vote for 'ABBB' (Any Body But Biden) is a Vote for Trump and Republo-Fascism" (S. Jonas, March, 2024)

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Last week I published a column on these pages entitled : "In Eastern Europe, 'It's Just Like 1939.' Well, No." It was the first in a two-part series commenting on a phrase --- "It's Just Like 1939" --- being used by a number of commentators and authorities who are dealing with the very real threat to U.S. Constitutional Democracy, and all that that threat entails, at the hands of the Tr ump/Heritage-Foundation/Project-2025 led Republican Party. The United States, as well as the rest of the world, faces a series of major political-economic-social-environmental calamities that would arise --- indeed the Trumpites are already telling us about them --- with the Trump re-election.

Politico summarized that set of calamities-to-be-faced-in-the-U.S. in one sentence: "From nationwide abortion bans to classroom culture wars, assaults on climate science and political weaponization of the military, his return to the White House could make Trump 1.0 seem tame." To say nothing of the destruction of the Federal Civil Service (apparently without the benefit of legislation), the open declaration of dictatorship. Yes, for "only one day," but might not he on that day decide to "extend" it? Certainly, his principal consiglileri, Stephen Miller and Steve Bannon, would be in favor of that. And so, the popularization of the term "Just like 1939."

But when one examines the history of that time, the fascist threat we face from the Trumpites has little to do with what we faced from the forces of reaction active in the United States in 1939. Yes, there were very serious threats to democracy in our nation, and we, like the Europeans faced, the very serious threat of Fascists-in-Government on that continent (which, through the "Axis" was allied with a very militarily-aggressive Japanese fascism). But they weren't any serious, political-party-based threats of some sort of U.S.-fascism. And so, what were the right-wing threats to U.S. politics and policy that our nation did face at that time?

First, on the differences between then and now, most importantly was the nature of the Republican Party. It was Right-wing. It was still opposing progressive legislation, like a national health insurance plan (which was still coming from the New Deal). It still opposed the legalization of trade unions, which had already been accomplished by the passage of the National Labor Relations (Wagner) Act of 1935. It did harbor open Hitler-sympathizers, like Henry Ford (see further below), in its leadership. It was "Isolationist," and definitely did not want the U.S. to get involved in any way with the "problems of Europe," which "might involve us in another foreign war." As it happened, isolationism did not stop leading Republicans, like one George Herbert Walker, from supporting the Nazi Party from its very earliest days, but that did not reflect the general foreign policy of the Republican Party, per se .

And so, THE big difference between the Republicans of 1939 and the present Republican Party is that back then it was not a proto-fascist party (and a very openly one at that). It was simply classically right-wing, and even not so "classically," heading into the 1940 Presidential Election. There were four major candidates for the Republican nomination: a rising "moderate" (in then-Republican terms) from New York Thomas E. Dewey, the conservative Michigan Senator Arthur Vandenburg, full-fledged the isolationist Ohio senator Robert Taft, and Wendell Wilkie, a businessman from Indiana and New York City. Unlike any modern Republican, he liked some of the ideals of the New Deal, but wanted them to be accomplished by business, not government (ho, ho, ho). In a very dramatic Republican National Convention he was selected to run against Roosevelt. As it turned out, during World War II Wilkie became a liberal internationalist. Unfortunately, he died at the age of 52, in 1944. To be sure, there are no Republicans like that around now.

Another major difference between the Republican Party of that time and now is that racism was not at the center of its political policy and program. There was a major, politically powerful, racist force in U.S. politics, but that was the Southern wing of the Democratic Party. Racism was embedded into politics, policy, and the culture in the South, and certainly there was severe racism in the North as well. But outside of the South, it was certainly not a centerpiece of the policies of either political party, as it is of today's Trumpublican Party.

At the same time, of course, some sort of attention to the politics of racial equality was a becoming a slowly rising force in the Democratic Party outside of the South. That force eventually led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. But for the Republican Party those major pieces of legislation led on to Nixon's "Southern Strategy" of 1968. And it is that development which has led the Republican Party directly to its posture as the leading racist party in the United States. Actually, that should not come as a surprise, for racism (and xenophobia) have been in the Republican Party's DNA since its beginnings in part on the ashes of the anti-immigrant "Know-Nothing Party" in the 1850's (suspended only briefly during the Civil War and Reconstruction).

However, there was another form of racism/ethno-prejudice which was alive and well in 1939 in the United States. It was led principally by Republicans (although not the Party per se ), but it was not confined to that party alone. It was anti-Semitism which was alive and very well all across the country. (As it happened, my father, Prof. Harold J. Jonas, published a review of what he termed "Anti-Semitica Americana" in the Contemporary Jewish Record , October, 1941.) Among the leaders of that "Anti-Semitica Americana" were, for example, Henry Ford (yes, that Henry Ford). He exchanged anti-Semitic columns that he published in his newspaper, "The Dearborn Independent," with the Nazi newspaper the "Volkischer Beobachter" (German: "People's Observer"). Charles Lindbergh, also an open anti-Semite, accepted an award from the Nazis in 1938.

And then there were notorious anti-Semitic propagandists, like Father Charles Coughlin in Detroit, and the "Christian Nationalist" Gerald L.K. Smith. (Indeed they had the latter back then too, but Christian Nationalism was not on the verge of taking over one of the two major parties.) But for all of this, and much more, while, to repeat, there were certainly Republicans who were anti-Semites, anti-Semitism did not appear at the center of Republican ideology. How much Trump's increasingly open anti-Semitism will wend its way into current Republican ideology remains to be seen. They do have a bunch of major Jewish contributors. But that's the Trumpublican Party's problem, not that of the defenders of U.S. Constitutional Democracy.

On foreign policy, in 1939 to a greater or lesser extent "isolationism" was abroad and well in both parties. The United States played no formal role in opposing the rise of fascism in the 1930s in the three major European countries in which it appeared: Germany, Italy, and Spain. As it happened, although they might have done something through the League of Nations, the Western Powers (including the United States) did nothing to oppose Italian imperialism in Ethiopia and North Africa, to oppose Japanese imperialism in Manchuria beginning in 1931 and then extending to the invasion of China in 1937, or to assist the elected Republican governmen t of Spain against the onslaught of the Spanish right-wing led by General Francisco Franco and openly supported by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. (See last week's column for a discussion of the "1939 situation" in Europe.) Of course, right up until December 7, 1941 there were major pro-German/Nazi organizations alive and well in many parts of this country, but they did not present any significant threat of a domestic fascist takeover in the United States.

Once the Second World War started, and especially after Great Britain stood alone after the Fall of France in the spring of 1940 followed by the (air) Battle of Britain, Pres. Roosevelt became increasingly concerned with figuring out ways to help the British government survive. We won't go into details here, but the Republican Party resisted FDR on that front right up until December 7, 1941. But in supporting Great Britain in its battle against Germany and Italy it wasn't just Republicans with whom FDR had to deal with. For example, during the Blitz of London in the Fall of 1940, the U.S. Ambassador in London, one Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr. (a nominal Democrat), openly took the side of the British right-wingers (as well as the former, uncrowned king, Edward VIII) who were still trying to arrange some kind of truce with the Nazis. Roosevelt called Kennedy back to Washington forthwith.

But again, the most important difference between the Republican Party of that time and the Republican Party of our time was that although it was then certainly a right-wing party; although certain of its leaders had Nazi sympathies --- e.g., a future Republican U.S. Senator from Connecticut, Prescott Bush, at that time a banker based in Switzerland, was in 1942 still doing business with Germany (FDR had to threaten him with prosecution under the Trading with the Enemy Act to get him to stop) --- it was neither a fascist party nor a proto-fascist one. Again, BIG difference between 1939 and now.

Finally, before World War II, there were indeed potential U.S. fascist revolts against the Government of the United States, like the one revealed by General Smedley Butler in 1935, and the one from the late 30's revealed by Rachel Maddow in her brilliant book, "Prequel: An American Fight Against Fascism." As it says in the Amazon promo: "Rachel Maddow traces the fight to preserve American democracy back to World War II, when a handful of committed public servants and brave private citizens thwarted far-right plotters trying to steer our nation toward an alliance with the Nazis." BUT, once again, none of these threats/movements were to be found at the center of the policies and programs of one of our Nation's two principal political parties. As I say in the title to this column: "For the U.S., 'It's Just Like 1939?' Well, No."

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Footnote: If you would like to get a picture of what our nation would have become if indeed there had been a fascist takeover of the United States, 1940-42, led by Ford, Lindbergh, and a faction of the Republican Party, read Philip Roth's mighty work: The Plot Against America .

(Article changed on Apr 12, 2024 at 12:16 PM EDT)
Eastleigh, UK - As the year draws to a close, HairXtensions, a leading name in the hair extensions industry, extends heartfelt thanks to its cherished customers for their unwavering support throughout the past year. The company takes this opportunity to express warm wishes to all customers and their families for a festive and joyous Christmas holiday, along with hopes for a prosperous and happy New Year 2024. In a year filled 
Tampa, FL - The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA) is pleased to announce the beginning of the call for entries for the 2024 International Photography Competition, sponsored by Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Visit Tampa Bay (VTB). Now in its 13th year, this competition invites global photographers to submit their work for consideration in an exclusive exhibition at TPA. The call for entries is open from February 5 through 
The music industry is buzzing with the release of "Lonely Life," the latest single from the Turkish musical prodigy, Deniz Yildiz. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxXDlfRZP-c This track is not merely a song but a revolutionary blend of rock, indie, and classical music elements, marking a significant leap in Yildiz's career as a composer, arranger, and guitarist. With "Lonely Life," Yildiz is set to redefine the boundaries of the contemporary rock scene, offering listeners a 
*Sarasota, Florida, April 12, 2024* - Ashleigh Evans, a beloved member of the Sarasota community, finds herself in a courageous battle against a rare and aggressive tumor. A dedicated mother, talented actress, culinary artist and philanthropist, Ashleigh's journey has captured the hearts of those who know her. Last year, Ashleigh was diagnosed with a rare genetically mutated variant of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), leading to the discovery and removal of a 
Portland Public Schools parents will no longer be able to raise money to add educators at their own childrens schools, under a proposal that the districts school board is poised to approve.

The proposed policy, developed after years of heated back-and-forth, centers on the money raised by independent and affiliated foundations at just over half of the districts 81 schools, which totaled $2.5 million in 2022-2023. It would discontinue a decades-long tradition of parents at some schools raising thousands of dollars from school auctions and the like to hire extra teachers for their childrens classrooms.

Under the new plan, which has fervent backing from influential school board member and Multnomah County Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards, schools are encouraged to register with the district if they raise $20,000 or more and any money intended for staff positions must be contributed to a districtwide foundation.

Under the current system, parents at any school may raise as much as they are able, via jog-a-thons, pledge drives and auctions, and the money can be spent on staff as their principals see fit.

The only caveat is that a third of whatever they raise above $10,000 must be shared with other schools.

Schools that have been able to raise more than $10,000 have wound up getting to keep anywhere between an extra few thousand dollars and north of $200,000 in recent years. Schools that raised the most in 2022 include Lincoln High School and Duniway and Ainsworth elementaries.

Meanwhile, grants from the shared pot, awarded to schools with the highest needs, topped out at $21,000.

Parent-raised money has offset the cost of about 100 educators and support staff throughout a subset of the districts schools, though for the majority of those employees, it makes up only a small fraction of their salary. There are 27 school employees whose salaries were funded at least 50% or more by foundation dollars, according to district data.

The draft policy doesnt specify how the districts existing foundation, the Fund for PPS, would be scaled up if school foundations continue to fundraise large sums even though they know their school cant use it for staff.

It is also unclear how any money in the Fund for PPS will be distributed. A parent advisory committee would be convened to recommend a formula that would then need to be approved by the school board.

The Fund for PPSs four board members have cautioned the school board that the change is likely to lead to an initial decline in donations.

Moving to a districtwide foundation model would align Portland Public Schools with every other public school district around Oregon that has a foundation, Brim-Edwards said at a recent school board meeting.

Disrupting inequity is never easy and it is often controversial, she said. The vast majority of our schools dont have any capacity to raise funds. Maybe they got a little crumb that was left over.

At least four other school board members signaled during a recent meeting that they agreed with her, suggesting that the proposal has enough juice to pass, despite a last-minute lobbying campaign by foundation supporters.

Theyve launched an online petition to try to stop the process in its tracks, contending that the district shouldnt sign off on taking money out of schools without a replacement plan firmly in place, even as budget cuts loom this year and into the future. They also say that their efforts help underserved students who attend their schools and are overlooked by the districts ongoing efforts to direct extra general fund dollars to high needs schools, a model known as equity budgeting.

This policy revision process has polarized and demonized the fundraising process when it should have galvanized PPS households and private donors to organize and build a strategic political action committee, to lobby for change in Salem, Bridlemile parent Jazzmin Reece testified this week. Instead, this process has caused households to tap out and leave the district.

Critics say the current fundraising rules create an inherently unethical system that allows wealthier communities to insulate themselves from the brunt of budget cutbacks and that it robs parents at those schools of the impetus to join in lobbying for more state funding for the entire public school system. They have also circulated a petition in support of the move to a districtwide foundation.

Parent Ellie Russell, who has children at Marysville K-5 and Kellogg Middle School, said that her childs elementary school is slated to lose up to five full-time employees next year due to budget tightening and has no foundation to try to patch the holes.

A districtwide foundation will put the money where it is needed, she told board members on Thursday. Imagine what we could accomplish if the fundraising energy currently spent at individual schools went to one common goal to increase state education funding for all schools.

At least two school board members have signaled that they are likely to be no votes: Andrew Scott and Patte Sullivan, both of whom live on Portlands comparatively wealthier west side.

Scott was particularly vociferous in opposition, suggesting that while the existing system needed reform to be more equitable, Brim-Edwardss proposal was underbaked and left the district exposed to potential legal challenges.

Brim-Edwards took umbrage at that assertion. But since their exchange, her proposal has been amended, removing the school boards ability to directly appoint the Fund for PPS board members.

The proposal will come back before the full school board for a final vote in the coming weeks.

 Julia Silverman covers schools and education policy for The Oregonian/OregonLive. She can be reached via email at jsilverman@oregonian.com. Follow her on X.com at @jrlsilverman.

Note: This story was updated at 4:30 p.m. on April 12 to reflect that, if the policy is enacted, schools will face stricter limits on paying salaries of school employees.
When a child or adolescent needs emergency psychiatric help or drug overdose recovery, go the nearest emergency department, call 911 or contact the mental health crisis line in your area.

Mental health providers and affected family members and youth helped form this list of other suggested resources:

Local crisis lines

Statewide crisis line: Text 988

Teen crisis line: Text 741741

Oregon youth line: (877)-968-8491 or text teen2teen to 839863

Clackamas County: (503) 655-8585

Multnomah County: (503) 988-4888

Washington County: (503) 291-9111

Walk in crisis centers

Hospital care

These hospital beds are designed to help youth experiencing a mental health crisis that requires hospital-based treatment. They are meant to offer short-term stabilization, typically for no more than two weeks. Often an emergency room will transfer patients to one of these facilities if they need extended care and if a bed is available.

Unity Center for Behavioral Health in Portland, (503) 944-8000

Providence Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Inpatient Unit in Oregon City, (800) 716-5325

Psychiatric residential treatment services

These facilities provide 24 hour care that represents a step down from a psychiatric hospital bed. Their care is designed to help parents and providers understand what the youths mental health needs are, keep them safe, start some therapy and begin medication management, if necessary. Treatment is focused solely on mental health. Youth with substance abuse disorders are not typically admitted.

Madrona Recovery

This facility in Tigard provides the same care as a other psychiatric treatment centers but is also licensed to provide substance use disorder treatment and clinical detoxification from drugs and alcohol. Its the only facility in Oregon that can address co-occurring addiction and mental health disorders for patients under 18. Stays here typically range from 30 to 45 days. Patients can have solely a mental health diagnosis or a substance use disorder or have both.

Subacute Psychiatric Treatment

These facilities are similar to residential psychiatric treatment facilities listed above but the stays are shorter, focused just on assessment and stabilization.

Secure inpatient psychiatric treatment

This is long term psychiatric treatment that is approved and funded by the Oregon Health Authority for youth who have not benefitted from the lower levels of care or need to have a secure six to nine month stay.

Inpatient substance use disorder treatment

These facilities only accept youth who have a substance use disorder. While the focus is on recovery from substance use, the facilities also provide mental health support. These facilities do not offer clinical detox.

Peer recovery groups in the Portland area

The organizations either offer sober socializing activities for youth or youth-specific group recovery meetings.

Out of state inpatient options recommend by parents

Family therapy or online therapy recommended by parents

LifeStance Health : Online therapy for less acute mental health needs

Portland DBT Institute : Dialectical behavior therapy for families

Do you have other youth behavioral health resources to share with other families? Let us know at nhayden@oregonian.com.

Nicole Hayden reports on mental health and homelessness. She can be reached at nhayden@oregonian.com.
Eighty years ago, Independence resident Clarice Lafreniere was a welder helping with the war effort. This week, she got the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition for her work.

Along with more than two dozen other Rosie the Riveters, a group comprised of female defense workers during World War II, Lafreniere received the nations highest civilian honor in Washington, D.C., at a ceremony Wednesday that celebrated the jobs they performed.

However, for many, it wasnt only a crucial contribution to the war effort during a male labor shortage but a turning point in their lives  it proved that women could do difficult, physically demanding jobs that once were the sole domain of men  making munitions, building planes and ships. I learned I could do anything I wanted to do, Lafreniere recalled.

Posters of Rosie the Riveter  the iconic woman with her hair in a red polka-dotted kerchief, hoisting her arm as she rolled up her sleeve  were all around the nations capital. Lafreniere wore red polka dots, too.

In fact, when she sat down for an interview with Trammart News before her departure, the white-on-red dots was the material of the blouse she wore.

Lafreniere, who is originally from Colorado, got married there in 1939. After the couple had a son, she and her husband decided to move to the Pacific Northwest.

Her daughter was born in Oregon the night Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese.

Lafreniere remembers blackout curtains were placed on the hospital windows, as a precaution in case the bombers proceeded to the west coast. About a year after the baby was born, Lafreniere arranged to have her mother care for the two children, and she began working at Kaiser Shipyard on Swan Island in Portland.

She worked as a welder and burner, forging metal with an instrument that looked like a big gun with a rod and a flame on the end, she explained. It was heated to such high temperatures that it melted steel. You had to move very steadily, " Lafreniere said.

Everybody had to be a fast learner, she added. Clad in leather overalls, wearing long gloves and a helmet equipped with a glass shield, Lafreniere worked the night shift for three years. Sometimes sparks flew all around her as she toiled.

A Congressional Gold Medal in honor of Rosie the Riveter is seen before a ceremony at Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) APAP

World War II factory workers known as Rosie the Riveters Cille MacDonald, left, and Delphine Kaput hold hands during the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony in honor of Rosie the Riveter on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) APAP

When the war was finally over, I got fired, she recalled. But she continued to work other jobs, ranging from the former department store Meier & Frank to the DMV, where she initially wasnt allowed to give driving tests, Lafreniere noted. Getting behind the wheel was strictly limited to the expertise of the men. Nor could she wear pants. I really resented that, she said.

Eventually, Lafreniere became an office manager.

She looks back on the change from those wartime days as a young bride, when she was ineligible for a credit card and couldnt qualify for a mortgage, all because of her gender. I do think we did get things started, she said of the progress women made after the Rosies filled male vacancies.

Still, she thinks women have more gains to make. There shouldnt be wage gaps she continues to read about, she said.

These days, Lafreniere keeps up to date with the news in so many different ways, since the internet expanded far beyond the radio broadcasts upon which the population once depended.

Lafreniere resides with her granddaughter in town, but she continues to be socially engaged with members of her own age group, organizing get-togethers like a monthly pinochle game. Having passed the century mark herself, Lafreniere is often asked about the secret to a long life.

Though she had hard times, I never felt I suffered much, she said. So, is optimism the key to longevity? I think maybe it has to do with resilience, she replied.

 Anne Scheck, Trammart News Service
Four Democrats running to replace longtime U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer in the 3rd Congressional District weighed in on national and international issues from the war in Gaza to the future of American democracy in a debate hosted by the Portland Metro Chamber of Commerce on Thursday.

The candidates were cordial as they tried to set themselves apart based on experience, despite presenting similar views on political polarization, voting rights and U.S. support for Israel. All four are self-described progressives.

Im going to be real with you. All four of us  pretty much agree on most things, said candidate Michael Jonas, a Portland attorney and owner of Rational Unicorn Legal Services.

The candidates, instead, touted their differing track records, which they each said would make them best suited to get things done in Congress.

Rep. Maxine Dexter is a medical doctor who represents Portlands west side in the Oregon Legislature. She pitched herself as an experienced and bipartisan lawmaker who has worked to pass bills to spur housing development and solidify abortion rights.

Gresham City Councilor Eddy Morales was the treasurer of the state Democratic Party and a former voting rights organizer who spent more than a decade working for political organizations in Washington D.C.

Former Multnomah County Commissioner and corporate lawyer Susheela Jayapal touted her track record overseeing Oregons most-populous county. She said her top priorities in Congress would be working toward shared prosperity, passing climate change legislation and protecting American democracy.

Jonas played up his community and business ties and said he would bring a much-needed perspective to Congress as the one outsider in a race against three politicians.

Its expected that the winner of the May 21 primary will cruise through the November general election in the heavily Democratic 3rd District. Blumenauer, 75, has held the seat since 1996.

The debate Thursday morning unfolded on the 23rd floor of the downtown Hilton hotel with a sweeping view of the West Hills.

Moderator Ken Boddie, a KOIN news anchor, asked the candidates how they would bridge the deep political divisions that plague Congress and protect American democratic institutions.

Jayapal, who touted herself as the strongest progressive in this race, said she would search for common ground with Republicans where we can find it. She placed the blame solely on Republicans for threatening Americas social fabric and scaling back civil rights.

When we talk about the divisive politics of the day, it is not a both sides issue. There is one party that is unable to govern itself and unable to govern the country, Jayapal said.

Jonas said he believes that economic prosperity and security are core issues that Americans can agree on. In Congress, he would identify lawmakers across the aisle who he could work with, he said, while standing up to Republicans who doubled down on hate and conspiracy and the normalization of alternative facts.

Morales said he has worked across the U.S. to engage voters and expand voting rights, including in Georgia, an electoral battleground where Democrats have pushed intense voting drives. He said Congress should shore up voting rights by expanding and protecting laws that prevent discrimination.

Those fundamental rights of voting are really under attack and have been rolled back since the Trump administration, Morales said.

Dexter also said that Trump has undermined democracy and is a threat. She called for Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, which would reestablish the federal governments power to crack down on voter discrimination in states.

But she said she has found many Republicans in the state Legislature who want to get good work done and would look to do the same in Congress. She said she is renowned for working with other people, treating them with respect and finding solutions.

Boddie also asked the candidates how they would approach sending U.S. military aid to Israel. Every candidate called for an end to the violence in Gaza, the improvement of humanitarian conditions and a lasting political solution.

Dexter said the U.S. should enforce its own limits on providing aid to human rights abusers and called for a ceasefire.

Morales said he has traveled to the West Bank and Israel. He called for an agreement to return aid, food, electricity and water to Gaza and the return of Israeli hostages.

Jonas said he comes from a Jewish family and is pro-Israel, but he condemned Israels brutal response to Hamas Oct. 7 attacks. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 30,000.

I think defending oneself against what happened on Oct. 7 was important. But I think the actions that are being taken by (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu are genocidal. And I dont use that word lightly, Jonas said.

Jayapal received criticism last year from some Jewish supporters of Israel for her initial reluctance to sign onto a Multnomah County Board of Commissioners statement condemning Hamas for the Oct. 7 attacks. She later released her own statement condemning Hamas appalling terror attack on Israel.

During the debate, Jayapal said she was the first candidate to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. She said Israel has a right to defend itself but the present course is unsustainable, is not consistent with international law and will not lead to peace, safety or security for anybody.

Jonas made his first debate appearance Thursday. When hosting the first debate of the primary in February, the City Club of Portland excluded the Portland lawyer. He protested in a letter to the club.

-- Grant Stringer; stringer.grantj@gmail.com; @Stringerjourno
The families of 13 people who died in Oregons deadliest COVID-19 outbreak at a nursing home have effectively settled lawsuits against the former Southeast Portland facility.

The conclusion of the lawsuits ends a four-year saga that began in March 2020, just weeks after it was established that the coronavirus had arrived in Oregon.

While hundreds of people living in Oregon senior-care homes ultimately died during the pandemic, no facility saw as many COVID-related deaths as Healthcare at Foster Creek, which operated in Southeast Portland until it was shut down by the state soon after the outbreak.

At least 34 Healthcare at Foster Creek residents died from COVID-19 in less than two months. Regulators shut the facility down May 5, 2020, citing immediate danger to residents.

Families of some of those who died filed suit against the owners of the nursing home, St. Jude Operating Company, and the nursing homes management company, Benicia Senior Living, within weeks of the facilitys closure. Other families joined existing suits or filed new ones in the months and years that followed, leading to three total lawsuits and 13 plaintiffs.

The settlement amount includes all the plaintiffs, said Bonnie Richardson, an attorney for nine of them. She declined to say how much money the defendants agreed to give as part of the settlement, saying the terms of the agreement are confidential. A judge must still approve attorneys fees and the probate court must approve the overall terms before the case can be closed, she added.

Reached by phone, an attorney for the defendants declined to comment.

A judge must still approve attorneys fees and the probate court must approve the overall terms before the case can be closed, said Bonnie Richardson, an attorney for nine of the plaintiffs.

The settlements allow St. Jude Operating Company and Benicia Senior Living to avoid a public trial. Benicia owns four facilities in Oregon, according to the Department of Human Services. St. Jude used to own two, but now owns none.

But while the legal settlements prevent the public airing of many details of what happened during those two desperate months at Healthcare at Foster Creek, several documents newly in the public record shed light on the nursing homes operations leading up to the outbreak.

A 10-year contract signed in 2013 showed Benicia Senior Living was expected to produce $78,000 a month in net revenue at Healthcare at Foster Creek, and that $50,000 of that monthly revenue was to be paid to the St. Jude Operating Company, the facilitys owner. Other records showed facility managers agreeing to admit more residents at the beginning of the pandemic, despite facing significant staffing shortages.

How do you feel about us admitting 2 more residents, facility administrator Janelle Bufford wrote March 19, 2020, in an email to Benicia Senior Living owner Terri Waldroff. We have been very careful about admitting, with our staffing being so chaotic, especially in the evenings. We are understaffed, even without these 2 admits, probably 3 eves a week.

Waldroff replied the next day:

I think it is fine to Admit. Make sure you screen for the virus, Waldroff wrote. Shift some of the care chores to ancillary staff. Have activities (staff) help feed, transport residents around the building etc. hire if you can unskilled/certified people to do the same.

Four days later, the facility reported its first known COVID-19 case to state officials. Mental-health workers who were contractors at Healthcare at Foster Creek became so concerned about infection-control practices at the facility that they soon stopped working at the nursing home. State officials wrote internally they were afraid the outbreak at the Southeast Portland nursing home could become catastrophic. Infections spread and people started to die.

By April 10, 10 residents had died of COVID-19. Infections continued to spread among residents and across units of the facility, until a total 120 residents, staff and others had the virus. The state intervened soon after, evacuating all the remaining residents. A state investigation found a host of violations at the nursing home and the facility was shut down permanently.

 Fedor Zarkhin is a breaking news and enterprise reporter with a focus on crime. Reach him at 971-373-2905; fzarkhin@oregonian.

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Nicole Beausoleil, the mom of one of the four learners who badly lost their lives in the Oxford High School shooting in 2021, critiqued the apology issued by the parents of the shooter as "a disgraceful thing."

James and Jennifer Crumbley Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter

James and Jennifer Crumbley, who became the first parents in the United States to be accused and liable in their child's mass shooting, got a sentence of 10 to 15 years in prison on April 9, following weeks of discussion by jurors who found both parents liable of involuntary manslaughter.

Despite the Crumbleys' apologies to the victims' families during their sentencing hearing, Beausoleil conveyed doubt about their genuineness, believing they tried to shift blame onto others rather than taking responsibility for their actions. She specifically emphasizes James Crumbley's manner towards Tate Myre's father during the hearing, which she found undesirable and improper.

Speaking during the hearing, Beausoleil found some comfort in conveying her feelings directly to the Crumbleys, viewing it as an opportunity to emphasize the difference between real parenting and a self-centered attitude. She highlights that the judge's verdict to charge the highest convictions, exceeding state guidelines, sends an essential message about parental responsibility and the prioritization of children's well-being.

Beausoleil also shared a remembrance of her daughter, Madisyn Baldwin, detailing her as a warm-hearted and radiant person who aimed to make a positive effect on the world.

James and Jennifer Crumbley were convicted on April 9, with Judge Cheryl Matthews emphasizing the importance of their recurring failures to intercede in their son's bothersome attitude. The victims' families urged for the highest sentence to be enforced, conveying the profound impact of their loss.

Read Also : James and Jennifer Crumbley Case: Prosecutors Request 10 to 15 Years Prison Sentence for Parents of Michigan School Shooter

Parents of Michigan School Shooting Victim Expressed Their Feelings

In court, Beausoleil confronted the Crumbleys, recounting the anguish of waiting for her daughter while they learned of the lives their son had taken.

Another parent, Craig Shilling, voiced his disappointment at Jennifer Crumbley's lack of guilt and responsibility, highlighting the gravity of their actions.

Before their convicting, Jennifer Crumbley conveyed deep regret and sorrow for the shooting, affirming that they were a loving family despite their flaws. James Crumbley confirmed his wish for a different result and conveyed guilt for the loss caused by his son's actions.

Throughout their trials, James Crumbley remained silent, while Jennifer testified in her defense, affirmative her knowledge of warning signs but denying any belief that her son posed a threat to others.

Ethan Crumbley, their son, was convicted in 2023 to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to the shooting. Prosecutors have pointed out they do not contemplate pursuing further charges about the circumstances.

When questioned about the apology statements from both Crumbleys, Beausoleil rejected them as insincere. "I perceived it as another attempt to deflect blame onto others rather than taking responsibility themselves," Beausoleil remarked. "Their statements lacked any acknowledgment of their actions."

The sentencing of the Crumbleys is a historic circumstance in the United States, as they are the first parents to face accusations and convictions related to their son's involvement in a mass gunfire. The shooter, who was 15 years old when he killed four learners at his school, is presently serving a life sentence.
In Englewood, Colorado, a school bus aide has been arrested by local police on charges of physically abusing three children with severe autism.

According to the Rathod Mohamedbhai law firm presenting the families, at least one circumstance of abuse was supposedly captured on video.

The law firm declared that the three non-verbal children endured "extreme physical and mental abuse" over six months while aboard a Littleton Public Schools special needs bus.

School Bus Aide Arrested for Child Abuse of Three Children

Kiarra Jones, aged 29, is facing felony assault charges for crimes against at-risk children, as reported by the police. The Englewood Police Department noted that multiple non-verbal autism students were allegedly assaulted by the suspect while en route to school on a moving bus.

Jones was identified as the victims' assigned paraprofessional employed by the Littleton Public School District during the incidents.

The law firm presenting the families stated Jones's actions as "unfathomable abuse," alleging that the abuse started in September 2023.

Concerned parents have seen important changes in their children's behavior and physical injuries, including scratches, bruises, a lost tooth, a broken toe, a black eye, and other deep bruises, which led them to reach out to the school in January. However, the school district reportedly failed to take sufficient action, according to Ciara Anderson, an attorney with the law firm.

Jones was arrested on April 4 after a video supposedly displaying her frequently hitting, punching, and stomping on a 10-year-old boy was issued by the law firm. She was accused on April 5 and bonded out on a $5,000 bond.

Todd Lambert, the district's superintendent, declared that Jones was terminated from her employment on the day of her arrest. He stressed that such behavior is unacceptable and assured parents that their children's safety is a top concern for the school district.

In a press conference, the parents of the boy in the video conveyed their shock and dismay at learning about the abuse of their son by someone they had trusted.

Parents Detailed About the Injuries Sustained by Abused Children with Autism

The parents of the three children hired a lawyer and held a press conference, specifying their children's injuries, including a knocked-out tooth, fractured bones, and deep bruises.

Jones, employed by Littleton schools, accompanied the children daily on their route to The Joshua School, which caters to students with autism.

Parents Devin and Jess noticed their son's injuries in September 2023, which worsened over time. They expressed dismay and betrayal, feeling that their trust had been violated.

Despite Jess raising concerns with The Joshua School and Littleton Public Schools, she felt her worries were dismissed. The parents chose to publicly release bus surveillance footage showing Jones allegedly assaulting the children.

Two other families reported similar injuries, though Jones has not been charged in those instances. Police are continuing to investigate additional evidence.

The Joshua School stated they first heard concerns about injuries in January and collaborated with the school district to review transportation footage. Littleton schools initiated an internal investigation upon learning of the injuries on March 19 and promptly terminated Jones, who had been employed since August.

The school district emphasized a commitment to child safety and expressed regret over the incident. The Rathod Mohamedbhai law firm, representing the affected families, plans to sue Littleton schools, alleging negligence in addressing the abuse.

Attorney Ed C. Hopkins criticized the school district for failing to act despite prior notice, highlighting the lasting trauma experienced by the children.
The 8-year-old Kentucky boy died allegedly from a strawberry allergy that was from his school's fundraiser.

However, lab testing from the Hopkins County Coroner's Office reveals negative substances from the fruit and, instead, reveals fentanyl intoxication as the cause of death.

8-Year-Old Kentucky Boy Suspectedly Died From Strawberry Allergy

The Madisonville Police Department previously reported receiving a distress call regarding a young boy, Trey Major Harris, found unresponsive at his residence at approximately 6:30 AM on Friday, March 15.

According to Trey's family, he had consumed several strawberries from a school fundraiser the evening before and had displayed symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Upon noticing the rash, Trey attempted to alleviate his discomfort by taking Benadryl and bathing. However, as his condition did not improve, his family sought medical assistance at the emergency room before returning home.

Later that evening, Trey changed into pajamas to sleep. When his family tried to rouse him for school the next morning, they discovered him unresponsive and not breathing.

Subsequently, Trey was pronounced deceased, as stated in the Madisonville police's press release.

On Tuesday, April 9, the Hopkins County Health Department released a statement disclosing the findings from the strawberries distributed during the school's fundraising event.

The results of the investigation, conducted by the Food and Drug Administration and the Kentucky State Lab, revealed no traces of harmful substances in the strawberries, according to the health department.

Denise Beach, Public Health Director, mentioned in the statement, "If you froze the strawberries properly, we are no longer issuing a caution concerning them."

Beach also commended the cooperation of the companies involved in the investigation, stating, "There were 443 flats distributed by North and 535 flats distributed by Central; these strawberries were distributed by Juicy Fruit LLC, Southern Grown, and Sizemore Farms. We appreciate their concern for public safety. We were contacted by their Safety Director, who was helpful and supportive."

Stepfather's Arrest for Substance Possession

Antonio Person, Trey's stepfather, faced legal repercussions when a search warrant executed at his residence on March 26 revealed contraband, including a firearm, drugs, and drug-related items.

This arrest occurred nearly two weeks following Trey's passing, as reported by the Madisonville Police Department.

Person now resides in Hopkin's County Jail, confronting charges ranging from possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia to possessing a handgun as a convicted felon and trafficking fentanyl.

Additionally, he faces warrants from outside the county and charges related to court contempt, liable actions, slander, and resistance to legal directives, including second-degree manslaughter.

In contrast to these troubling developments, Trey's obituary painted a picture of a beloved child, cherished by his peers and deeply involved in sports.

Described as a helpful and jovial individual with aspirations of becoming a police officer, Trey's passing left a void in his family, particularly felt by his devoted mother, Whitney Person.

The menace of fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, underscores the dangers of drug abuse, with illegal variants posing significant risks despite their small quantities.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency highlights key indicators of fentanyl intoxication, including respiratory issues, drowsiness, unresponsiveness, and constricted pupils.
This just went up on the website of the Interpreter Foundation: Hugh Nibley Observed: Nibley and the Environment, written and presented by Terry Ball:

I am honored to participate in this lecture series remembering the studies, life, and legacy of Professor Hugh Nibley. I did not have the privilege of personally knowing Professor Nibley. He retired before I joined the faculty at BYU, but I do happen to have two stories to contribute to the corpus of Nibley loreboth of which, in contrast to many others I have heard, I know to be actually true! Part of our book chapter reprint series, this article originally appeared in Hugh Nibley Observed, edited by Jeffrey M. Bradshaw, Shirley S. Ricks, and Stephen T. Whitlock. For more information, go to https://interpreterfoundation.org/books/hugh-nibley-observed/.

And Im a bit late calling attention to this essay, which went up yesterday on the Interpreter Foundations website: Conference Talks: This Thing Is a Similitude: A Typological Approach to Moses 5:4-15 and Ancient Apocryphal Literature (2020 Tracing Ancient Threads in the Book of Moses Conference), delivered by David M. Calabro:

David M. Calabro spoke at the Tracing Ancient Threads in the Book of Moses Conference on Saturday, September 19, 2020 under the title of This Thing Is a Similitude: A Typological Approach to Moses 5:115 and Ancient Apocryphal Literature. His paper examines similarities between the account of the sacrifice and epiphany of the first parents in Moses 5:1-15 and analogous accounts found in apocryphal literature of the late antique and medieval periods. Apocryphal texts I will consider include primarily the Greek Life of Adam and Eve (also known as the Apocalypse of Moses) and secondarily the Conflict of Adam and Eve with Satan, the Cave of Treasures, the medieval Jewish Sefer Raziel, and Islamic collections of Qisas al-Anbiya (Stories of the Prophets). The focus will be not only on the content of the narratives, but also on structural elements such as voice and narrative flow. Based on this examination, I will argue that some of these texts have a common type of origin, being both revelatory and oriented to a ritual context, while others belong to different types associated with different historical contexts. I will show how this typological approach could inform dialogue between scholars of Restoration scripture and those researching the origins of other traditions sacred texts. All of the conference presentations were filmed, and both video and audio recordings of each presentation are available. Videos, audio recordings and transcripts are available at https://interpreterfoundation.org/conferences/2020-book-of-moses-conference/papers/. The videos are also available on the Interpreter Foundation YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/theinterpreterfoundation. A YouTube playlist is also available at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRMn4gyXMWLv7A618LA-cCvxMqWRk8kxI.

I was also very pleased to see this: Apostle Extends Eid al-Fitr Greeting to Muslims around the World

With that in mind, it seems appropriate to mention this news item: Serving Together with the Interfaith Community during Ramadan: Representatives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints support Ramadan interfaith initiatives

And to share a couple of quotations that were first shared online by Alex Barclay:

Avoid contention and vain disputes with men of corrupt minds who do not desire to know the truth. Remember, it is a day of warning and not a day of many words. If they receive not your testimony in one place, flee to another, remembering to cast no reflection nor throw out any bitter saying. If you do your duty, it will be as well with you as if all men received the gospel. (Joseph Smith DHC 1:468)

When you go into a neighborhood to preach the Gospel, never attempt to tear down a mans house, so to speak, before you build him a better one; never, in fact, attack any ones religion, wherever you go. Be willing to let every man enjoy his own religion. It is his right to do that. If he does not accept your testimony with regard to the Gospel of Christ, that is his affair, and not yours. Do not spend your time in pulling down other sects and parties. We havent time to do that. It is never right to do that. (Wilford Woodruff)

I want to remind you of the fact that, after more than three and a half decades of meticulous effort and stunning productivity, Royal Skousens landmark project on the textual history of the Book of Mormon is finally approaching completion. To mark the culmination of his work, the Interpreter Foundation is partnering with BYU Studies to celebrate the achievements and the results of this mammoth enterprise.

Royal Skousen will speak at the event, summarizing what the Critical Text Project has taught us. His frequent collaborator Stanford Carmack will also speak.

We havent yet settled on the precise location for the evening event, but it will occur somewhere on the campus of Brigham Young University in Provo, at 7 PM on Saturday, 10 August 2024. (Please mark your calendar if you are interested in attending. Further details will be forthcoming.) That will be the Saturday immediately following this years annual FAIR Conference, which  in a departure from past precedents, will be held at the American Heritage School in Salt Lake City, Utah, on 8-9 August 2024. Please mark your calendars for that, as well!

I will be speaking at the 2024 FAIR conference, which, this year, will bear the title of FAIR and Valiant Voices: United in Faith and will represent the alliance of two distinct organizations, FAIR and something called Valiant Conference. This is a bit of an experiment, I understand, so were all curious to see how smoothly and well it will run. I hope to see you there.

And, yet again, I call to your attention a film that will actually have its debut tonight and this weekend: Escape from Germany. Its a dramatic true story, brought to the screen by one of the foremost contemporary Latter-day Saint filmmakers.

Good things are happening!
New Patriotic Partys (NPP) Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagbah is of the view that the politics of equalization with the scandal that has hit the Scholarship secretariat is not needed.



According to him, the solution to the problem at hand is reforming the system to stipulate clear rules and standards to regulate access to the facility.



He believes that regardless of the challenges at hand, the Scholarship Secretariat has done better with new policies and programs to make the scheme better and that is what should be the focus.



The Scholarship Secretariat has done commendable work since 2017 by decentralizing the application procedure to the districts that an independent committee manages. The district committees include the MP, representatives of the traditional authority, the DCE or MCE, the District Education rep, and the Scholarship Secretariat staff.



He continued Much work has been done to improve administration and access to scholarships; now, our conversations focus should be on further reforms in the application process to exclude some category of persons because the current regime does not expressly exclude anybody from applying for or benefiting from scholarships.



Media Entity, Fourth Estate in their latest investigative piece has revealed that scholarships meant for the needy in society are being given to well-to-do individuals, politicians, and their associates.



While some needy but brilliant students are not given access to the funding, some politicians and their associates are given twice to pursue courses that are run by Ghanaian universities abroad.



The outrage following the Fourth Estate Report on some scholarship awards by the Scholarship Secretariat is understandable, but we must note the following:





The outrage following the Fourth Estate Report on some scholarship awards by the Scholarship Secretariat is understandable, but we must note the following:



1. The Scholarship Secretariat provided the Fourth Estate with 64,411 scholarship beneficiaries between 2019 and 2020.  Richard Ahiagbah (@RAahiagbah) April 9, 2024















Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Parliamentary Candidate for Adentan Constituency for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Akosua Asaa Manu, has contributed essential building materials to support the completion of the Ashaley Botwe Central Mosque.



Her donation, which includes 100 bags of cement and 3 tonnes of iron rods, was made on the morning of April 10, 2024, coinciding with the celebratory end of the Ramadan fast.



The event was graced by clerics, community leaders, and members of the Nassara leadership throughout the constituency. During the occasion, Akosua Manu shared words of encouragement and conveyed her wishes of peace and love to all Muslims in her constituency and across Ghana.



May this donation serve not only as a support for the physical structure of the mosque but also as a symbol of the unity and strength within our community. Let us continue to spread peace and love among one another, she stated.



The community has expressed profound gratitude for Akosua Manu's contribution, recognizing her as a figure of compassion and support for all people in Adentan.

Her actions truly embody the spirit of #KozieCares for All.



It could be recalled that Muslims throughout the world observed Ramadan, a period of fasting,lasting for 30 days. This sacred time is a reminder of the values of patience, perseverance, and generosity that are central to the Islamic faith.

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.

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The Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has dismissed claims that the Electoral Commission (EC) informed the public about the missing Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) kits from its headquarters.



According to Dr. Boamah, the EC did not voluntarily furnish the public and political parties with the information about the alleged theft of the BVDs at its headquarters, but it was rather the NDCs intelligence that picked up the theft case and questioned the EC in Parliament.



In a media engagement on Tuesday, April 9 after an IPAC meeting, Dr. Boamah questioned the EC's delay in announcing the missing BVDs to the political parties.



And so when the agenda included this briefing on the Biometric Voter Registration kits, we decided that we would put forward the pertinent questions which we read all to them. I would say over 97% of the questions were not answered, he said.



The former Minister for Communications in the erstwhile Mahama government expressed disappointment that significant components of biometric verification registration kits were stolen at the headquarters of the Electoral Commission which is under CCTV surveillance.



He emphasised that if the EC claims that the missing BDVs have been found, then it should tell the political parties the date and time on which the devices were found.



The NDC's Director of Elections questioned, Who or how were the missing items discovered? How many are missing or cannot be found or traced because it was NDC that picked up intel?



What is the full scope of this theft that has been confirmed? What are the serial numbers of the missing items under discussion, and the serial numbers are very important when we get to data integrity. Does the EC have the purchasing invoices together with serial numbers at the time of the purchase of the missing items?



Did the EC have an official recorded inventory of the missing items prior to the theft? Is there a present inventory of such sensitive items to aid a comprehensive public inquiry that can allay the fears of all stakeholders, he questioned.



Regarding the investigation, Dr Boamah stated that the EC informed the political parties that it reported the matter to the police. He thus wondered when the EC became aware that those kits had been stolen from its headquarters.

Source: Kobina Darlington/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.

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Emperor Dumplings plans to reopen in May after a three-month break, but there won't be any dim sum  at first.

The restaurant (2309 Eggert Road, Tonawanda) opened in October and closed abruptly in late January after losing its dim sum master chef.

Though only open for a few months, Emperor Dumplings had quickly gathered a cult following for its authentic dim sum, which is an array of Chinese small plates such as steamed buns, rolls, dumplings and other dishes, traditionally served for brunch.

Owners Zaw Win and Nyein Nyein Aung are still searching for a new dim sum master chef. They're working on recruiting a chef from their home country, Myanmar, and are pursuing a few leads. Dim sum will return to Emperor Dumplings, eventually.

"I don't want to do frozen dim sum," Win said. "I want to be real, handmade, daily fresh dim sum."

In the meantime, the restaurant will reopen with a new menu of Asian foods including Burmese, Thai and Chinese cuisine in May.

They invested $200,000 into Emperor Dumplings, Win said, and continue to pay rent for the space, so they're eager to reopen. Plus, they miss their customers.

"It's OK we are losing money," Aung said. "I feel so bad for the customers ... they like it, and suddenly, we stop. It's not fair for the customer."

Aung wants to offer some complimentary food when they reopen to thank customers for their patience. She also misses their robot server, Bella, who helped bring food to tables.

"I need to wake her up," Aung said.
Senior Researcher, Professor Smart Sarpong has jabbed the Movement for Change, a political movement founded and led by former leading member of the ruling New Patriotic Party, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.



Alan Kyerematen is contesting this year's December elections as an independent candidate and, to him, his Movement for Change which has a butterfly known in local parlance as "afrafranto" as its symbol is a movement to empower the youth and improve the lives of Ghanaians.



Contributing to a panel discussion on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo" in relation to the selection of a Running Mate for the ruling party, Professor Smart Sarpong delivered an analysis of the political landscape in Ghana.



He noted that nothing will compel the people of Ashanti Region, the stronghold of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to vote for any other party apart from the "elephant" party.



To him, the Ashanti Region has proven to be in love with the NPP irrespective of how one looks at the party's performance.



In his view, the Region won't vote for the Movement for Change either despite Alan Kyerematen being the crusader.



I dont know what will worry the Volta Region to the extent that the Volta Region will vote for a different party. The same way, politically, nobody should be deceived into thinking that the Asante (Ashanti Region) will vote for a different party, not even the afrafranto party; there is no way they will happen. When you stay in Kumasi, you will know how much they love their elephant, he told host Nana Yaw Kesseh.



On the NPP Running Mate slot, the Senior Research Fellow of the Kumasi Technical University advised the rank and file of the party to "manage their expectations" to avoid conflicts if their favorite candidate isn't elected.









Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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A Lancaster Township man was found guilty this week on all charges filed against him for the repeated sexual abuse of two children, prosecutors said.

Robert Austin, 33, was convicted Thursday of 17 sex assault charges, including rape of a child, the Lancaster County District Attorneys Office said.

Prosecutors said the abuse was reported in the summer of 2021. The victims told investigators that Austin abused them in the city of Lancaster from ages 6 and 8 until about 13.

(The victims) described to you 7 years of prolonged abuse, Assistant District Attorney Jessica Collo told the jury, according to the district attorneys office. (Austin) is here for a week. They need to live with (the abuse) for the rest of their lives.

They got up (on the stand) and told you about the most horrific things that have happened in their lives, Collo said to the jury. Why would they do that if they didnt have to? For a game? For a lie? Whats in question here is belief. Each time the word guilty is used youre telling those children you believe them.

Prosecutors said the jury deliberated for about five hours Thursday before convicting Austin. A sentencing hearing will be held at a later date.
Philadelphia police have identified one of the suspects who was arrested Wednesday after a shooting at a large Eid al-Fitr event held in a park.

Kahbir Oglesby-Hicks, 21, has been charged with evading arrest and several weapons offenses in connection with the shooting, according to reports from 6ABC and NBC10.

Police have not identified the other four suspects they arrested, all of whom are juveniles -- two 15-year-old boys, a 16-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy. They did, however, say all are being charged with recklessly endangering another person and weapons offenses.

About 1,000 people had gathered at Clara Muhammad Square for an event to celebrate the end of the Ramadan fast. Around 2:30 p.m., about 30 shots rang out as two groups exchanged gunfire.

Three people were injured in the shooting: Nhashon Tawfiq Richards, 22, who was hit in the stomach, a 15-year-old boy wounded in the hand and a 15-year-old suspect who police wounded in his shoulder and leg when returning fire. All three people were listed as hospitalized and in stable condition.

Police obtained five guns from the arrested suspects, the Philadelphia Inquirer said, and found another weapon on the ground.

Leaders at Philadelphia Masjid, which hosted the event, did not comment but said they would be holding a press conference on Friday.

I walked through this event and we know that the majority, 99 percent of the individuals at this event, are good people who wanted to have a good time, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said to NBC10. And once again we have young people engaging in gunfire who just really destroyed the sanctity of what happened.
Disneyland, Walt Disney World and other parks owned by the Walt Disney Company are cracking down on people who attempt to exploit their disability services.

Fox Business reports that the parks will permanently ban guests who make false statements to gain Disability Access Services there.

If it is determined that any of the statements a Guest made in the process of obtaining DAS are not true, the Guest will be permanently barred from entering the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, reads a warning on the Disney website.

Additionally, any passes or tickets purchased by people who are discovered to have lied about their disabilities will be canceled without refund.

The DAS service allows people with disabilities to get a return time for rides and attractions, rather than wait in line to use them. Anyone currently with DAS access will have to re-apply for the services, and access will be limited to immediate family or groups or no more than four.

The current DAS process will remain in place until May 20 at Walt Disney World in Florida and until June 18 at Disneyland in California.

After that point, DAS registration must occur via virtual video chat at Walt Disney World, rather than in-person registration. Disneyland will allow virtual video chats or applications at same-day accessibility services windows.

For more information on the Disney DAS service, visit the Walt Disney World website here.
By Chad Umble, LNP, Lancaster, Pa. (TNS)

The marquee at The Village still advertises the Dec. 10, 2022, Santa Stumble bar crawl costume contest that was its final event. The next week, the club was sold for $1.95 million to an investment group that intended to redevelop the 205 N. Christian St. property, marking the end of The Villages 68-year history in Lancaster.

But after sitting idle for more than a year and a half, The Village is preparing for an encore.

Were going to reopen The Village nightclub. And the goal is to do it this summer, said Rich Ruoff, a local music promoter and founder of the former Chameleon Club in Lancaster, who will be The Villages general manager.

Ruoff said the new version of The Village will be much like his old Chameleon Club, with a variety of live music acts on two or three nights a week, including all-ages shows. There will be a smaller stage that will be called The Lizard Lounge, just like the area at the former Chameleon Club, which closed in 2020.

Were paying homage to The Chameleon without calling it The Chameleon, Ruoff said.

Before reopening, The Village will undergo an extensive cosmetic renovation that will involve repainting and installing new lighting while also putting in new sound and security systems, updating the kitchen, and building the Lizard Lounge stage.

For people who have been here before, they will see and feel the difference. They will see we put some effort into it, Ruoff said of the renovation he said would begin in the next couple weeks, noting that the original, light-up dance floor will be preserved. He declined to comment on the cost of the work.

The 62-year-old Ruoff said he made a three-year commitment to operate the nightclub, adding that its owners may still redevelop the property.

For the next two or three years were going to have a lot of fun, Ruoff said. And if, at the end of that run, if its working and everybody is enjoying it, it might continue. If not, it could become a parking lot, or a high-rise building.
The Black Crowes Happiness Bastards tour is underway and moving closer to Pa.

The band will perform on Friday, May 3, at Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem and Tuesday, May 7, at The Met in Philadelphia as well as Saturday, May 4 at Oceans Casino Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The band also will tour with Aerosmith starting in September on that bands Peace Out farewell tour that has two stops in Pa. - Sept. 20 in Pittsburgh and Sept. 23 in Philadelphia.

Happiness Bastards is the bands 10th studio album and the first in 15 years. The record by brothers Chris and Rich Robinson was released on March 15, 2024.

Fans can buy tickets to The Black Crowes shows here (prices are as of the time of this post):

Friday, May 3, Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem

Tuesday, May 7, The Met, Philadelphia
A 1990s rotisserie chicken restaurant is likely nearing its final days, according to a publication.

The Street reports Boston Market is rapidly declining without a corporate headquarters as the number of locations drops from a near-high of 1,000 to under 30 units.

Now, with its store count continuing to dip, the chain seems to have reached the end even if it wont confirm that given that there no longer appears to be anyone around to make that decision, The Street reports.

Recently, chain owner Jignesh Jay Pandya was denied Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time. As a result, The Street said Boston Market has been barred from filing again for six months, meaning the company cant gain court protection from creditors.

The problems deepen. In May 2022, The Street reported the Colorado Department of Revenue seized the companys headquarters for more than $329,000 in unpaid sales and payroll taxes.

Boston Market also owes $11 million to food vendor US Foods and has racked up nearly 140 state and federal lawsuits for several reasons ranging from unpaid wages to overdue rent and vendors who have not been paid, according to the publication.

Restaurant Business, reports 300 Boston Market restaurants operated at the beginning of 2023, a number that has dropped to 27. It said the closures are happening because landlords are being evicted over unpaid bills, or because state officials are shutting down restaurants over unpaid sales taxes or other issues.

Multiple attempts by The Street and other publications to reach Boston Market for comment have been unsuccessful. It added the chain no longer has a working phone or email address.

Boston Market grew rapidly in the 1990s with homestyle takeout chicken meals. But it grew too quickly, filing for bankruptcy and closing several units. The brand was eventually sold to McDonalds which offloaded it to Sun Capital.
A dead humpback whale that washed up on a Jersey Shore beach on Thursday morning showed signs of blunt force trauma, including skull fractures and bruising around the head, officials announced Friday morning.

The juvenile male whale found in Long Beach Township, New Jersey was more than a year old and measured nearly 25 feet, according to details provided by the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, which completed a necropsy on the animal Thursday evening.

Other evidence of blunt force trauma included cervical vertebrae fractures, numerous dislocated ribs and a dislocated shoulder blade, officials said.

Most of the major internal organs were liquified, with only the heart identifiable, the report said, adding that scars from a previous engagement unrelated to the stranding event were evident around the tale and right pectoral flipper.

Biological samples were taken for analysis at various labs around the country, the center said.

This was the first dead whale found along the Jersey Shore this year, according to the stranding center. Nine humpback whale strandings were reported last year and four in 2020.

A dead humpback whale rolls in the surf after washing up on the beach in Long Beach Township on Thursday, April 11, 2024.Jim Lowney | For NJ Advance Media

Whale deaths have prompted claims that development of offshore wind-power projects are to blame. State and federal agencies say they have found no evidence to support that theory.

Many dead whales recovered and studied have shown signs of strikes from vessels or entanglement with fishing gear, according to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, which declared whale deaths along the Atlantic Coast since 2016 an unusual mortality event that it continues to study.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphys administration recently approved $3.7 million in funding for offshore wind research that includes monitoring the health of whales, sea turtles, birds and bats.

Following the Thursday necropsy, conducted at the Long Beach Township Department of Public Works, the whales remains were buried on site.

Our entire team is always deeply saddened by every deceased animal that we investigate, but the ones that hit the hardest are animals like this young whale who never got the chance to contribute to his species, the stranding center said in its Friday statement.

A dead humpback whale heads by truck to a public works facility after being taken off a beach in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, on Thursday, April 11, 2024.Eric Conklin

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.
By David Matthews, New York Daily News (TNS)

Three fishermen who were stranded on a small Pacific island for more than a week were rescued after making a HELP sign with palm leaves on the beach.

The men, experienced sailors in their 40s, set out from the Micronesian island of Polowat in a 20-foot skiff on Easter. The following Saturday, a family member made a distress call about the fishermens whereabouts.

A Coast Guard and Navy search ensued, covering an area of roughly 80,000 square miles.

The crew of a Hawaii-based HC-130J Hercules aircraft makes contact with three mariners stranded on Pikelot Atoll, Yap State, Federated States of Micronesia, after dropping them a radio on April 8, 2024. (U.S. Coast Guard/TNS)TNS

On Sunday, a Navy aviator spotted a large HELP message made on the beach of Pikelot, a remote island about 100 nautical miles away from their home. A day later, another plane dropped a radio and supplies. The men confirmed they were healthy but that their boat was too damaged to return to Polowat.

The men were rescued on Tuesday and returned to their homes.

Whether were out there protecting valuable resources or saving lives, were not just visitors  were members of this vibrant maritime community that connects all these islands, Lt. Ray Cerrato, commanding officer of the USCGC Oliver Henry, said.

A nearly identical rescue occurred in 2020 on the same island, but those stranded fisherman spelled out SOS with leaves.
By STEFANIE DAZIO and CHRISTOPHER WEBER Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP)  A woman who authorities say fatally stabbed her partner at their Los Angeles apartment Monday then threw her two children from a moving SUV onto the freeway, killing her infant daughter, was an astrologer who called the impending solar eclipse the epitome of spiritual warfare in an online post days earlier.

Los Angeles police believe Danielle Cherakiyah Johnson, 34, posted on X as an astrology influencer and recording artist with the moniker Ayoka, in the days leading up to the violence, which began hours before the eclipse peaked in Southern California, said Lt. Guy Golan.

While detectives have reviewed Johnsons posts, police are not considering the eclipse to be a precipitating or contributing factor to the slayings because we just dont know why she did what she did, Golan told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

Weve taken all the facts we can, but without being able to interview her and without having something more tangible than a post on X, I dont know how much weight you can give to somebody (saying) theres an apocalypse and attribute it to one of the most horrific murders weve had in LA, said Golan, who is head of the homicide unit investigating the case.

Authorities say Johnson and her partner, 29-year-old Jaelen Allen Chaney, had an argument around 3:40 a.m. Monday in their apartment in Woodland Hills, about 25 miles northwest of downtown LA. Johnson stabbed Chaney and fled with her kids, an 8-month-old girl and her 9-year-old sister, in a Porsche Cayenne.

Johnson then drove along Interstate 405 in Culver City and threw her daughters out of the moving SUV around 4:30 a.m., police said. The baby was pronounced dead, but the older child  who witnessed the stabbing  survived with moderate injuries.

Johnson traveled southwest to Redondo Beach, where a half-hour later she was driving over 100 mph and died when she crashed into a tree. The LAPD is investigating whether the solo crash was a suicide.

Get your protection on and your heart in the right place, she posted April 4 to more than 105,000 followers on X. The world is very obviously changing right now and if you ever needed to pick a side, the time to do right in your life is now. Stay strong you got this.

45 1 / 45 Solar Eclipse 2024: Photos across North America

On April 5, she posted in all caps, Wake up wake up the apocalypse is here. Everyone who has ears listen. Your time to choose what you believe is now.

Her social media also included a mix of antisemitic screeds, conspiracy theories about vaccines and warnings about the end of the world alongside astrological predictions and positive affirmations. Also on April 5, she posted the word LOVE dozens of times. Her personal website offers a variety of services including zodiac healing work, alcohol balancing system and an aura cleanse.

Across the globe, the celestial event spawned fears of the apocalypse and other suspicions rooted in religion and spirituality. But Golan noted that others who posted online about their eclipse-related worries did not commit violence like Johnson.

How many people wrote about it, he said, and didnt go out and murder somebody?
LONDON (AP)  Instagram says its deploying new tools to protect young people and combat sexual extortion, including a feature that will automatically blur nudity in direct messages.

The social media platform said in a blog post Thursday that its testing out the features as part of its campaign to fight sexual scams and other forms of image abuse, and to make it tougher for criminals to contact teens.

Sexual extortion, or sextortion, involves persuading a person to send explicit photos online and then threatening to make the images public unless the victim pays money or engages in sexual favors. Recent high-profile cases include two Nigerian brothers who pleaded guilty to sexually extorting teen boys and young men in Michigan, including one who took his own life, and a Virginia sheriffs deputy who sexually extorted and kidnapped a 15-year-old girl.

Instagram and other social media companies have faced growing criticism for not doing enough to protect young people. Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Instagrams owner Meta Platforms, apologized to the parents of victims of such abuse during a Senate hearing earlier this year.

Meta, which is based in Menlo Park, California, also owns Facebook and WhatsApp but the nudity blur feature wont be added to messages sent on those platforms.

Instagram said scammers often use direct messages to ask for intimate images. To counter this, it will soon start testing out a nudity-protection feature for direct messages that blurs any images with nudity and encourages people to think twice before sending nude images.

The feature is designed not only to protect people from seeing unwanted nudity in their DMs, but also to protect them from scammers who may send nude images to trick people into sending their own images in return, Instagram said.

The feature will be turned on by default globally for teens under 18. Adult users will get a notification encouraging them to activate it.

Images with nudity will be blurred with a warning, giving users the option to view it. Theyll also get an option to block the sender and report the chat.

For people sending direct messages with nudity, they will get a message reminding them to be cautious when sending sensitive photos. Theyll also be informed that they can unsend the photos if they change their mind, but that theres a chance others may have already seen them.

As with many of Metas tools and policies around child safety, critics saw the move as a positive step, but one that does not go far enough.

I think the tools announced can protect senders, and that is welcome. But what about recipients? said Arturo Bejar, former engineering director at the social media giant who is known for his expertise in curbing online harassment. He said 1 in 8 teens receives an unwanted advance on Instagram every seven days, citing internal research he compiled while at Meta that he presented in November testimony before Congress. What tools do they get? What can they do if they get an unwanted nude?

Bejar said things wont meaningfully change until there is a way for a teen to say theyve received an unwanted advance, and there is transparency about it.

White House assistant press secretary Robyn Patterson also noted Thursday that President Joe Biden has been outspoken about his belief that social media companies can do more to combat sexual exploitation online.

Instagram said its working on technology to help identify accounts that could be potentially be engaging in sexual extortion scams, based on a range of signals that could indicate sextortion behavior.

To stop criminals from connecting with young people, its also taking measures including not showing the message button on a teens profile to potential sextortion accounts, even if they already follow each other, and testing new ways to hide teens from these accounts.

In January, the FBI warned of a huge increase in sextortion cases targeting children  including financial sextortion, where someone threatens to release compromising images unless the victim pays. The targeted victims are primarily boys between the ages of 14 to 17, but the FBI said any child can become a victim. In the six-month period from October 2022 to March 2023, the FBI saw a more than 20% increase in reporting of financially motivated sextortion cases involving minor victims compared to the same period in the previous year.
Mail-in voters are just starting to cast ballots in Pennsylvanias 10th Congressional District Democratic primary.

But the partys national donor class has largely cast their ballots - in the form of checks and online donations - and that verdict is in: former Marines Corps aviator Mike OBrien and former television newscaster Janelle Stelson have bankrolls that are not like the others in the field.
Want a say in the news? Email Claudia at todayinpa@pennlive.com to have your thoughts on the stories covered here or on PennLive heard.

You can listen to the latest episode of Today in Pa on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and YouTube. Episodes are available every weekday on PennLive. Feel free to subscribe, follow or rate Today in Pa. as you see fit!

Today in Pa. Daily Podcast | April 12, 2024

A bill would inform consumers of AI-generated content. Pennsylvania could become the next state to ban using handheld devices while driving. Stamp prices are going up again. Lastly, an ATMfor dogs?

Those are the stories we cover in the latest episode of Today in Pa., a daily weekday podcast from PennLive.com and hosted by Claudia Dimuro. Today in Pa. is dedicated to sharing the most important and interesting stories pertaining to Pennsylvania that lets you know, indeed, whats happening today in Pa.

Todays episode refers to the following articles:

If you enjoy Today in Pa., consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or on Amazon. Reviews help others find the show and, besides, wed like to know what you think about the program, too.

As sponsored by Renewal by Anderson of Central PA.
By Alexis Papalia, The Tribune-Review, Greensburg

On April 19, superstar singer-songwriter Taylor Swift will add another era to her discography with her new album The Tortured Poets Department. Anticipation is building among her fans  who refer to themselves as Swifties  and several businesses and groups have hopped on the Taylor Train, hosting events around the new albums release to celebrate all things Swift.
By Tiffany Donnelly

Want to spend $10 to promote your Facebook post, make a poster for your window, or run off a few flyers at Office Depot to support a school board candidate? Under a proposal moving through the legislature, youd have to fill out a complicated form and file it with the governmentwhich would then display the form on the internet.
The Philadelphia Phillies City Connect jerseys have arrived on Fanatics. The release is a new launch after the oft-discussed jerseys made their debut last week on MLB Shop. Now, the whole City Connect collection of jersey, shirts, hoodies, hats and more gets a full-scale release with their addition to the Phillies Fanatics store.

The Phillies City Connect jerseys are the star of the merchandise show with their alternative black, blue and yellow color and design. The front of the jersey features PHILLY across the chest and the player number in the same font and player name in yellow on the back. Available players are Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto and Zack Wheeler.

All City Connect jerseys come in mens, womens and youth sizes. Adult sizes run $174.99, while the youth player jersey is $124.99. A blank jersey is available for $154.99 for adult sizes and $99.99 for youth.

The same fonts and graphic elements of the City Connect jerseys show up on hoodies, hats, polos, socks and even baby onesies. Some of the highlights include:

Mens Philadelphia Phillies New Era Navy 2024 City Connect 59FIFTY Fitted Hat ($45.99): The classic New Era cap comes with a flat bill, a high crown and structured fit. The same design is also available in a low-profile fitted version and a 39THIRTY Flex option.

Mens Philadelphia Phillies Nike Navy 2024 City Connect Club Fleece Pullover Hoodie ($84.99): Nike brand made from 80 percent cotton and 20 percent polyester. Suitable for moderate temperatures.

Philadelphia Phillies Nike Navy 2024 City Connect Large Logo T-Shirt ($34.99): The LOVE with the Liberty Bell is a sharp design special to Philly. Made from 100 percent cotton.

And last but not least:

Infant Philadelphia Phillies Nike Navy 2024 City Connect Three-Piece Bodysuit Set ($34.99): The beauty of this collection is getting three City Connect designs in one. The home plate design is the best of all worlds.

Check out the full City Connect collection, which is now officially on Fanatics.
GLOBALink | Collaboration with China crucial for Suriname, says Surinamese president Pub Date:24-04-12 09:35 Source:Xinhua

"We could move the bilateral relation between Suriname and China to the next level, strengthening cultural cooperation, business cooperation and investment cooperation," said Chandrikapersad Santokhi, President of the Republic of Suriname, in an interview with Xinhua. Produced by Xinhua Global Service Editor:Qin Shuying

Related News Friendship and cooperation are cherishable... Insights | Bilateral technological coopera... Democratic reform started Xizang's moderni... Efforts on to boost Sino-Australian ties
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Dan Shak Reaches Settlement in Commodities 'Spoof Order' Case; No Admission of Guilt

Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Copy link

Without admitting guilt, Dan Shak has reached a settlement with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) two years after being charged with allegedly "spoofing" and manipulating in a deceptive scheme in the gold and silver futures markets.

Upon reaching an agreement with the CFTC, the high stakes poker player issued a statement to PokerNews via a PR firm.

"While I am confident I could have prevailed at trial, I have concluded the right decision for my family and me is to resolve this matter with no admission of wrongdoing and without the cost, delay, and distraction of protracted litigation. As part of finalizing the settlement, the CFTC required that I not deny their allegations, but I also do not admit them. I was an active trader making millions of trades per year, and the CFTCs allegations relate to a small fraction of trades that allegedly occurred from 2015 to 2018. After 45 years as a member in good standing on the exchanges, and having retired nearly two years ago, now is the right time to put this matter behind me, pursue other opportunities, and avoid litigation costs that would far exceed the fine I am paying," Shak said.

Poker High Roller to Pay Hefty Fine

According to court documents, on April 9, Shak agreed to accept civil penalties and various permanent injunctions that will hinder his ability to further trade commodities.

The CFTC alleges that Shak "entered orders and executed trades in the Futures Trading Accounts on his own behalf" from February 2015 to March 2018. He is said to have "engaged in a manipulative and deceptive scheme that consisted of spoofing the gold and silvers markets.

Dan Shak

"Spoofing" refers to when securities buyers place market orders and then cancel them before the order is fulfilled. It is illegal and can carry steep penalties. The longtime poker player who has $13.5 million in live tournament earnings, according to The Hendon Mob, and 81 World Series of Poker (WSOP) cashes must pay a $750,000 fine as part of the settlement. He is also prohibited from having any commodity interests traded on his behalf and soliciting, receiving, or accepting any funds from anyone for the purpose of selling commodities.

The Las Vegas resident is alleged to have placed hundreds of orders on gold and silver futures with the intent to cancel them before execution. Court filings accuse Shak of following a general pattern of placing a small order of gold and silver futures that he intended to execute, and then placing one or more larger resting orders on the opposite side of the market with the intent to cancel ("spoof") after his genuine order was filled.

Per the CFTC's accusations, Shak "knew or was reckless to the fact that his Spoof Orders would send false signals of supply and demand into the market and would deceive or trick other market participants."

In 2013, the former principal of SHK Management, LLC was ordered to pay a $400,000 fine for attempting to manipulate the price of Light Sweet Crude Oil (WTI) futures contracts on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX). As a result, he was permanently banned from trading in any Crude Oil markets.

Poker Player Dan Shak in Hot Water Over Alleged Gold Market Spoofing

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RunGood Poker Series Heading to Atlantis Resort in Reno April 23-28

Connor Richards Editor & Live Reporter U.S. Copy link

It's a busy month for the RunGood Poker Series (RGPS), which is headed both to Horseshoe Council Bluffs April 23-28 and to Atlantis Casino in Reno on the same dates. The RGPS Reno series will culminate with a $600 buy-in Main Event, which comes with a $150,000 guarantee attached.

In addition to the six-figure guaranteed Main Event, the RunGood stop in northern Nevada will feature a handful of ring events, including a $30,000 guaranteed DeepStack event and a $300 Tag Team event.

Read About the RGPS Council Bluffs Stop!

Win a Ring in Reno

Action in Reno will kick off on April 23 with a $250 Seniors Ring Event in the morning, followed by a $250 Series Opener NLH Ring Event in the afternoon and a $250 Double Green Chip Bounty Ring Event later in the evening.

The next day, there will be a $300 DeepStack Ring Event with a $30,000 guarantee that offers two starting flights. After that, there will be a $300 PLO Ring Event and a $300 Black Chip Bounty Ring Event.

Other highlights of the RGPS Reno series include a $300 One Day NLH Ring Event with a $10,000 guarantee and a $300 Tag Team Ring Event to close things out.

RGPS Reno

The biggest draw of the series is the $600 Main Event, which will offer players four starting flights as they fight for a piece of the $150,000 guaranteed prize pool.

RunGood ambassador and PokerNews Podcast co-host Kyna England will be at the Reno stop and spoke about it on the latest PokerNews Podcast.

Previous Winner

Last time around in Reno, the $600 RunGood Main Event drew 359 runners for a prize pool of $186,680. At the end of it all, newcomer Stacey Berger emerged victorious for $39,655.

Other players who made the RGPS Reno Main Event final table include Darrel Dier, Dwight Englekirk, Tony Barrera and fan favorite Pat Lyons.

Stacey Berger

2023 RGPS Reno Final Table Results

Place Player Hometown Prize Money 1 Stacey Berger Sparks, NV $39,655 2 [Removed:420] San Matteo,CA $27,610 3 Darrel Dier Mexico City, Mexico $17,860 4 Dwight Englekirk Zephyr Cove, NV $11,575 5 Tony Barrera San Ramon, CA $8,915 6 Harley Brooks Sparks, NV $7,375 7 Charles Himes CA $6,190 8 Pat Lyons San Mateo, CA $5,070 9 Paul Sampson Reno, NV $3,965

The full schedule for the RGPS Reno stop is available in the table below.

RGPS Reno Full Schedule

DATE DAY TIME EVENT April 23 Tuesday 10:00 AM Seniors Ring Event $10,000 GTD (AGE 50+, Buy-in $250) April 23 Tuesday 1:00 PM Series Opener NLH Ring Event $5,000 GTD (Buy-in: $250) April 23 Tuesday 6:00 PM Double Green Chip Bounty Ring Event $5,000 GTD (Buy-in $250) April 24 Wednesday 11:00 AM DeepStack Ring Event FLT A $30,000 GTD (Buy-in $300) April 24 Wednesday 3:00 PM Main Event Satellite 3 SEATS GTD (Buy-in $80, 1 in 10) April 24 Wednesday 6:00 PM DeepStack Ring Event FLT B $30,000 GTD (Buy-in $300) April 25 Thursday 12:00 PM DeepStack Ring Event Restart April 25 Thursday 1:00 PM PLO Ring Event (Buy-in $300) April 25 Thursday 2:00 PM Black Chip Bounty Ring Event (Buy-in $300) April 25 Thursday 6:00 PM Main Event Satellite 10 SEATS GTD (Buy-in $145, 1 in 5) April 26 Friday 11:00 AM Main Event FLT A $150,000 GTD (Buy-in $600) April 26 Friday 3:00 PM Main Event Satellite 5 SEATS GTD (Buy-in $145, 1 in 5) April 26 Friday 6:00 PM Main Event FLT B $150,000 GTD (Buy-in $600) April 27 Saturday 9:00 AM Turbo Main Event Satellite (Buy-in $145, 1 in 5, 5 Seats GTD) April 27 Saturday 11:00 AM Main Event FLT C $150,000 GTD (Buy-in $600) April 27 Saturday 3:00 PM Main Event Satellite (Buy-in $145, 1 in 5, 5 Seats GTD) April 27 Saturday 6:00 PM Main Event FLT D $150,000 GTD (Buy-in $600) April 28 Sunday 11:00 AM Main Event Restart April 28 Sunday 1:00 PM One Day NLH Ring Event (Buy-in $300, $10,000 GTD) April 28 Sunday 5:00 PM Tag Team Ring Event (Buy-in $300, $150 Per Partner, Two Rings Awarded)

*Image courtesy RGPS & 8131 Media

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The potential witness list for the prosecution in the Trump hush money case is a total nightmare for the defendant ex-president.

Ari Melber described the list on MSNBC:

We know Trump aides who have flipped are key to the D.A.s case, like Michael Cohen. Today one knowledgeable source says the D.A. It is likely to call big names weve heard about like Cohen, Hope Hicks, maybe Stormy Daniel happens, and those are potential witnesses, theres no formal list that comes out in a written manner during the trial, and there are reports, and the people on the screen have direct contact with Trump. They bring that to the witness stand.

If you followed enough Trump controversies you may remember one of the ways his team tries to discredit people is they didnt know anything. They werent there and sometimes the word hearsay gets thrown around. No one will be giving a second hand statement. They can all talk about being in the room when it happened.

Those witnesses would make sense, and we wont know until the trial begins. some of the same reporting suggests other D.A. witnesses include less famous individuals who were also crucial to telling the jury what really happened, and they are people from the very specific rough-and-tumble world of New York tabloids. People who ran the National Enquirer at the key time back in 2016. The people on your screen are incredibly vital to whether or not Donald Trump is convicted of a felony and possibly sentenced to prison. So they might not be as famous as other people, and fame and television time isnt all it is cracked up to be. These are three people that will matter a ton and Ill get into why, right now. David Pecker and Dylan Howard basically ran The Enquirer. They are central to the case that there was a known, formal and financed criminal plot to catch and kill these stories.

The other name you see there, Keith Davidson, you may remember, was Stormy Daniels lawyer at one point. Lets start with the tabloid chief pecker, hes one of the chief people that Cohens team says will corroborate Michael Cohens damning story against Trump.

Video:

Ari Melber, We know Trump aides who have flipped are key to the DAs case like Michael Cohen. Today one knowledgeable source says the D.A. Is likely to call big names weve heard about like Cohen, Hope Hicks, maybe Stormy Danielx. pic.twitter.com/2gSNaogLXs  Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) April 11, 2024

It is like all the people that Trump did wrong in the hush money case have come back to testify against him. If this list is accurate the DA has everyone and people to corroborate the stories of other witnesses.

The witness list is a nightmare for Donald Trump and when it is paired with the mountain of physical evidence, it becomes clear why even the ex-presidents allies expect him to be convicted.

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If you are in a position to donate purely to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here.

We have been honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we only answer to our readers and we will not compromise on that fundamental, core PoliticusUSA value.

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Speaker Mike Johnson refused to answer when asked if he was going to talk to Trump about Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greenes motion to vacate.

Video:

Reporter: Are you planning on speaking with President Trump about the motion to vacate? Johnson: I dont ever comment on my private conversation with President Trump but Im looking forward to going to Florida and spending some time.. pic.twitter.com/6gbxecjwpn  Acyn (@Acyn) April 12, 2024

Johnson answered when asked by reporters if he would talk to Trump about Greenes motion to vacate that he doesnt talk about his conversations with Trump.

The timing of Johnsons visit to Mar-a-Lago is not a coincidence. Of course, Johnson is doing the sham election integrity event with Trump to hopefully get some nice public words from the ex-president about what a great job his doing and maybe he can even get Trump to force Marjorie Taylor Greene to drop her motion to vacate.

Nothing that is happening on Friday is an accident or a coincidence. Trump is exactly where he most loves being. He is at the center of Republican chaos as Johnson and Greene fight for his love and approval.

Election denier true believer Mike Johnson hopes that by appearing with Trump, he will win the failed former presidents favor and save his job.

The most interesting subplot isnt what Johnson and Trump will say at their sham public appearance, but what Trump may do to keep Johnson around and how Greene reacts if her motion to vacate threat is neutralized.

A Special Message From PoliticusUSA

If you are in a position to donate purely to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here.

We have been honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we only answer to our readers and we will not compromise on that fundamental, core PoliticusUSA value.

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COLUMBIA  A former South Carolina prison captain is accused of accepting more than $200,000 in bribes over the course of several years to smuggle in cellphones and other contraband to inmates.

A federal grand jury recently returned a 15-count indictment against the former corrections officer, 46-year-old Christine Mary Livingston, and an inmate, 33-year-old Jerell Reaves, for bribery, conspiracy, honest services wire fraud and money laundering.

Reaves was known as "Hell Rell," and Livingston was known as "Hell Rell's Queen," according to the court filing.

Livingston worked at the South Carolina Department of Corrections from September 2005 to November 2021, according to the indictment. She served as a corrections officer and was promoted to captain in 2016.

As captain, Livingston was responsible for supervising and managing the security operations at the prison facility she was assigned, including the Broad River Correctional Institution in Columbia.

In 2018, she conspired with Reaves, who was incarcerated at the Broad River Correctional Institution on a voluntary manslaughter conviction, court filings say. He paid Livingston at least $42,600 in bribes, according to the indictment.

But Reaves was just one of about a dozen inmates and their associates from whom Livingston accepted bribes, according to the indictment.

Livingston had around 14 peer-to-peer payment accounts, including Cash App, which were under pseudonyms and linked to financial accounts under her name.

Altogether, she accepted more than $200,000 in bribes over the years and smuggled in at least 173 cellphones, as well as headphones, screen protectors, phone chargers, SIM cards and other types of contraband, according to the indictment.

The FBI Columbia Field Office and SCDC Office of the Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels will be prosecuting.

People who wear badges and are sworn to uphold the law should be held to a higher standard, SCDC Director Bryan Stirling said. This woman broke the public trust in South Carolina, making our prisons less safe for inmates, staff and the community. We will absolutely not tolerate officers and employees bringing contraband into our prisons, and Im glad she is being held accountable.
Man gets 10 years for role in killing

GEORGETOWN  A Georgetown man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a 2020 murder.

Eric Hempel, 24, took an Alford plea on April 11 on the charge of accessory after the fact of murder, according to a news release from the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office.

Hempel was facing up to 15 years in prison. In an Alford plea, a defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges a jury could convict based on the evidence.

Hempel was arrested Nov. 4, 2021, and initially charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

The charges were later downgraded to those that were part of his plea.

Shelby Ashby, 21, was arrested at the same time as Hempel.

She was charged with accessory to murder after the fact for helping him move and dispose of the victims remains, according to the solicitors office.

The case stemmed from the death of Harry Barkley, a 35-year-old Kingstree man who went missing in August 2020.

Barkleys family reported him missing to the Georgetown County Sheriffs Office and the Williamsburg County Sheriffs Office. Detectives from both agencies worked in tandem executing search warrants, questioning witnesses and following up on leads.

Barkleys vehicle was discovered in September 2020 after it had been dumped in the Black River at Chavis Landing. In May 2021, human remains believed to have been those of Barkley were found in a remote wooded area of Williamsburg County.

At that time, police said they had suspects, but until the remains were conclusively identified no action could be taken.

DNA evidence confirmed Barkleys identity on Aug. 25, 2021, and arrest warrants were obtained for Ashby and Hempel.

Nicole Ziege

Greenville to annex luxury golf course

GREENVILLE  The rolling hills of the Chanticleer golf course will soon be fully within Greenvilles city limits, more than 70 years after part of the course was annexed in the wealthy neighborhood that lies just outside the city.
On Sunday, October 6, 2024, a group of at least 30 people from 6 weeks old to 80+ years gathered at First Baptist Church for an opening prayer led by organizer Rev. Ian Geimer, pastor of FBC of Kingstree. The event organized by Jean Nexsen, Mission Committee chairperson, and committee has be Read moreFelecian Center sponsors Prayer Walk
A cab driver later told police that he gave a ride that day to a man matching Solomon's description, according to Mexican news outlets. The driver allegedly told police that he dropped the man off on a dirt road leading to Isla de la Pasion, a small island. The man did not have money so he gave his watch as payment, La Jornada Maya reported, quoting what police said the taxi driver told them.

Shortly after Solomon went missing, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State told The Post and Courier that the agency "has no higher priority than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad.  When a U.S. citizen is missing, we work closely with local authorities as they carry out their search efforts, and we share information with families however we can. We are monitoring the situation and seeking additional information, and we stand ready to provide consular assistance."

Martha Warren, one of Solomons cousins, said in an April 12 Facebook post that more than 100 locals, ex-patriots and vacationers have joined in the search, along with a number of people working solo. Professional teams are also engaged, she said, and the family is not giving up hope even though a promising tip on April 12 didnt pan out.

I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of so many of you, she wrote. Truly a reminder that on a whole, by far, people are beautiful and loving. Thank you, thank you!

The previous day, Warren posted that military personnel and search dogs were on their way, and teams were concentrating on parks and other open areas where Solomon might be resting, along with area with ferries and other boats.

On April 10, a week after Solomon had last been seen, his wife posted to Facebook for the first time in years.

"I havent been able to bring myself to look at FB or message many friends since Brad went missing," Mimi Hyer Solomon wrote. "While I am still in a state of shock, anguish, and immense heartache, I have had my own 2 feet on the ground covering this city looking for the love of my life. I wont leave this island without him.
COLUMBIA  South Carolinas top law enforcement agency is investigating allegations that a prominent Lowcountry civil rights attorney and state representative filed a legal settlement with a clients forged signature and then offered him hush money to remain silent.

Earlier this week, Dorchester County resident Adrian Lewis filed a lawsuit against Rep. Marvin Pendarvis, accusing the North Charleston Democrat of secretly striking a settlement with the Dorchester County Sheriffs Office for $10,000 over an alleged illegal arrest theyd made against him in 2021.

Pendarvis sought to hide the agreement from Lewis, the lawsuit alleges, and later attempted to buy Lewis silence with money from a client trust account  a serious ethical breach.

The incident had already been reported to the South Carolina Bar Association, Lewis attorneys said. Now, the State Law Enforcement Division has launched a criminal investigation into the episode at the request of a 1st Circuit Solicitor David Pascoe, officials with SLED confirmed April 12.

Pascoe, whose jurisdiction includes Dorchester County, is the same prosecutor who led a Statehouse corruption probe that led to indictments against several members of the General Assembly.

Pascoe confirmed the news in a brief phone interview with The Post and Courier on April 12, but he declined to discuss specifics of the case.

Ive had multiple conversations with (SLED Chief Mark Keel) and I have utmost confidence in them, Pascoe said. Ive worked with SLED for many years on many sensitive investigations, and I have the utmost confidence that theyre going to do a great job gathering the facts in their investigation.

Pendarvis declined to comment when reached by phone April 12.

The scope of the investigation is potentially serious.
The National Weather Service Friday morning issued a flood warning for parts of the Buffalo Niagara region.

The warning included portions of Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee and Wyoming counties that had extensive rainfall overnight, which could lead to overflows in rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying, flood-prone areas.

Outside those areas, "wider flooding concerns remain low at this time," meteorologists said, while warning all those in the region, including the Southern Tier, to be mindful of the prospect of at least some minor flooding.

The weather service advised motorists to exercise extra caution due to ponding on area roadways.

"Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads," it said in its Friday morning warning. "Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."

The region received 1 to 2 inches of new rainfall overnight, which caused "minor rises across the Buffalo and Southern Tier area creeks and rivers," the weather service reported.

Fallen trees blocked roads in several areas, including Casey Road between Transit and Paradise roads in Amherst, which reopened after trees were cleared at 8:15 a.m., according to a nearby resident and the town Department of Public Works.

Officials in Clarence urged motorists to use caution near Goodrich and Lapp roads because of high water. Town of Holland officials flagged Center Road between Partridge and Blanchard roads for the same reason.

NITTEC, the regional traffic monitoring system, reported the closure at 7:45 a.m. of Route 394 West from Borden Street to Fifth Avenue in Randolph due to flooding. In a tweet, the town DPW said crews across all the districts were out monitoring areas for flooding and fallen trees.

Nearly 1,400 National Grid customers in Niagara County and more then 130 customers in Erie County lost power Friday morning. As of Friday noon, 119 customers in Niagara County and 62 customers in Erie County remained without power.

Forecasters expected another quarter-inch to three-quarters inch of rain throughout the day, along with wind gusts of up to 45 mph in areas northeast of Lake Erie.

Buffalo, Cheektowaga, West Seneca and North Tonawanda were designated as some of the flood-prone areas, according to the warning.

The rain was expected to change into wet snow in some parts of the region overnight Friday through Saturday morning, especially in the higher terrains, where "slushy accumulations" were possible. Strong winds remained in the forecast through Saturday, when a daytime high will reach about 50 degrees.

Occasional rain is expected Saturday with a high in the mid-to-upper-50s. Sunday's forecast calls for partly sunny skies and a high in the low 60s. Rain will return next week, with highs in the 70s.
GAFFNEY  The Cherokee County School District now has some hired help with fixing its superintendent debacle.

The school board for the Upstate district voted unanimously  with one member recusing himself  April 9 to hire the South Carolina School Boards Association, a nonprofit that serves school boards across the state, to search for its new superintendent.

We want to make sure we do this in the right manner as we move forward, said Mark Nix, school board chairperson.

Cherokee County Schools will pay the association $7,500 upfront and up to $20,000 when it completes the search.

It worked with the district in the same capacity in 2011, according to the Gaffney Ledger .

Nix is also appointing a four-person superintendent search committee.

This is truly a community thing, he said. This is the education of our kids in this community and Cherokee County.

The school board also interviewed candidates for interim superintendent behind closed doors for more than an hour. Board members took no action on hiring an interim superintendent but could at an upcoming meeting.

Carl Carpenter, the districts former deputy superintendent, has been acting superintendent since the school board placed Superintendent Dana Fall on paid administrative leave on Feb. 29.

Fall, who has been the districts leader since 2019, became embroiled in controversy after announcing his intention to leave the district to lead one in Woodruff.

The Woodruff district ended up not proceeding with him after community backlash to comments he made that led some community members to question his priorities.

Cherokee responded by placing him on paid leave and reaching a six-figure settlement for him to resign this summer.

The board appreciates Dr. Carpenters willingness to assume these responsibilities and wishes Dr. Fall well in his future endeavors, Nix said at a March 21 meeting.
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Reviews by hundreds of business customers demonstrate that the Colorado-based technology company remains a leader in video communications.COLORADO SPRINGS, CO / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / In its Spring 2024 report on the best video communication platforms, G2 awarded seven badges to BombBomb across two product categories. BombBomb specializes in asynchronous video, enabling users to record and share video messages using their desktops or mobile devices. BombBomb has maintained its high-ranking position in G2's leadership quadrant for more than three consecutive years.BombBomb earns 7 G2 badges Best video communication platform to record my screenVerified customers submit reviews on G2, which then analyzes competitive offerings in each category based on user satisfaction and market presence. In G2's latest report, the Colorado tech company earned high marks for ease of implementation and delivering results to its end-users. G2 covers BombBomb in two categories: video email and video communications."The program is fun to use, easy to use with my CRM, and gets positive responses," said a customer from a large enterprise.Badges from G2 indicate that a company ranks among the top-tier providers in its class. BombBomb's report was released last week on G2's website.Mid-Market Results Index for Video Communications Mid-Market Relationship Index for Video Communications Mid-Market Implementation Index for Video Communications Mid-Market Grid Report for Video Communications Small-Business Grid Report for Video Communications Small-Business Grid Report for Video Email Small-Business Canada Regional Grid Report for Video Email"We were first to market with video messaging," said Nicole Craine, president and chief operating officer at BombBomb. "But we've always put development and customers first. In the past, marketing was in the backseat. So, the value of platforms like G2 cannot be understated as a peer review site, where real customers share honest feedback about customer service and our solutions." A recent review from an enterprise customer with more than 10,000 employees supports the brand's popularity among businesses."I have been using BombBomb for several years to educate my clients," wrote Peggy, whose identity is kept confidential by G2. "The program is fun to use, easy to use with my CRM, and gets positive responses. What more could I ask for? When needed, customer support helps out a lot." Asked what she disliked about BombBomb, Peggy replied, "Nothing, I just haven't used all of its tools." Learn more about how to use videos in emails, team collaboration, and social media at BombBomb.com Contact Information:Tim GilbertCEOtim@ mertonway.com 561-676-2378SOURCE: BombBombView the original press release on newswire.com
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Centenario Gold Corp. (TSXV:CTG) ("Centenario"or the "Company") is pleased to announce an update and planned next phase exploration program on the Eden property located just north of Prime Mining Corp's Los Reyes project, near Cosala, Mexico. The geological team lead by Alain Charest and Hermilo Mendoza have been analyzing the recent drill data and reinterpreting all the geological information the company obtained on the Eden project over the past two years.The geological information obtained from the maiden drilling program completed in February 2024, has greatly improved our understanding of the mineralized systems found on the Eden property. The lithological, mineralogical, alteration and structural characteristics and zoning patterns observed in the drill core represent an additional, and important, component to the evolving geological model that was based on previous exploration work.During the last two months, the Centenario geological team has processed this new information and outlined several new targets to drill-test across the Eden property. For one, the northern structurally-controlled extension, and the upper and deeper portions of the Buenavista epithermal system have yet to be tested. There are also important drilling targets across the other sub-parallel mineralized structures, especially the La Provedora prospect, located 1.5 km east of Buenavista.First Phase Drill Hole Location MapBuenavista - Buenavista CorridorTen of the eleven holes completed at Buenavista are spread across an area of 250 by 100 meters, just west of the old mine workings. Drill holes were located 65 to 150 meters E-SE of the N-NE trending high-grade Buenavista structure. The location and orientation of the drill holes were such that the upper and deeper portions of the east dipping epithermal system have yet to be tested.The upper 100 meter portion of the Buenavista structure extends directly down dip from where the high grade Au and Ag surface sample as high as 239.9 g/t Au and 1390 g/t Ag were obtained. The drilling that was completed did not test the upper 100m of the Buenavista structure. The deeper portion of the Buenavista system, greater than 250 m downdip from the surface exposure, also remains untested. The presence of low temperature quartz textures and alteration minerals in the drill hole intersects, as deep as 250 meters, indicate that we are still in the upper level of the epithermal system and that zones of mineralization most probably also occur further down at depth.Cross section of Drill holes ED-23-02 & ED-23-03 and proposed 3 new drill holesNorthern Extension Buenavista- La TramposaThe northern extension of the Buenavista corridor, especially up to the La Tramposa zone(see Figure 1 - Tramposa Extension)where the mineralized regional corridor expands to widths greater than 200 meters, represents another important drilling prospect. Two rock chip samples, 2 meters in width, that were collected at the La Tramposa zone, located 1.2 km north of the Buenavista old mine workings, returned grades of 1.3 g/t Au and 1.7 g/t Au g/t Au. Company geologists have planned additional drill holes across this zone.Geophysical TargetsOther specific, more conceptual drill targets, supported by the interpretation and/or correlation of the geophysical and soil geochemistry data, have also been identified. The geophysicist who wrote the IP/Resistivity geophysical survey report on the work program that was completed at Buenavista and La Provedora in 2021, also added a set of 8 proposed drill holes. These holes are based on his interpretation of the data.(see Figure 2 - Buenavista Geophysics with Proposed Drill Holes)La Provedora & La RepublicanaThe La Provedora and La Republicana prospects are located 1.5 km east of the La Paloma prospect, which sits at the southern end of the SE trending branch of the Buenavista Corridor. The mineralized structure at La Provedora has the same strike and dip orientation as Buenavista. Although very little of the structure outcrops at surface, there's an extensive underground mine working which is currently inaccessible due to the toxic accumulation of bat excrement.Historically, local miners that used to work in the La Provedora mine in the 1980's claim that the vein material that was taken out at the time was rarely below 100 g/t Au, and 2 kilos Ag. The only information about the old mine working is a hand-drawn sketch from the 1990's, that shows the extent of the mine workings at La Provedora and the different access points. The geophysical survey completed over the La Provedora also highlights areas of interest for additional drilling(see Figure 3 - La Provedora & La Republicana location and Geophysical Plan map)La Provedora Mine workings Cross SectionLa RepublicanaMore intriguing is the E-W trending, low angle structure, outcropping 300 m East of La Provedora, called La Republicana, a portion of which lies on the Eden Property and a portion of which lies on a claim that is not currently owned or optioned by Centenario, which hosts a completely different type of mineralized system. One rock sample collected by Centenario in the old working returned 136.8 g/t Au, 748 g/t Ag, and > 1% Cu and > than 10% Pb-Zn. What remains unanswered and very intriguing at this point is, what happens where these 2 different systems intersect?(see Figure 3 - La Provedora & La Republicana location and Geophysical Plan map)Amendment to Eden Property Option AgreementThe Company also announces that is has amended the terms of the Eden Property Option Agreement (the "Eden Agreement"). The payment that was due on March 24, 2024 for US $100,000 was reduced to US $50,000. The balance of US $50,000 is now due December 23, 2024. For this extension, the Company has agreed to an additional US $10,000 on December 23, 2024.About Centenario Gold Corp. and the El Eden Gold-Silver Project:Centenario Gold Corp. is a natural resource exploration company that was formed to focus on exploring and generating high quality mineral prospects in Mexico. During 2020, the exploration team of Centenario visited and evaluated more than 12 mineral prospects before finding the Eden gold silver property located in Durango state of Mexico. On March 24th, 2021, after completing the preliminary evaluation work and due diligence review, Durango Gold Corp S.A de C.V., the 100%-owned Mexican subsidiary of Centenario Gold Corp., signed a 4-year option agreement to acquire 100% of the mineral rights to the Eden Au-Ag property subject to a 1% NSR. The Eden project consists of three adjoining mineral concessions totalling 5,689 hectares in size hosting a series of high-grade N to NE trending, epithermal Au-Ag vein structures.
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TACOMA, WA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Commencement Bank (OTCQX:CBWA) is pleased to announce the upcoming move of the Bank's headquarters and Tacoma Branch from the current location at 1102 Commerce Street to the locally-owned office building at 1313 Broadway in downtown Tacoma. The move is scheduled to take place in early 2025."This move is small geographically, but it is a big step forward for the future of Commencement Bank. This transition will allow for a growing workforce and will consolidate the existing Tacoma team onto one floor, increasing communication and synergies between departments, and ultimately leading to better overall service for our customers. As part of the move, our bank will have naming rights to the building which will further enhance our brand," said John E. Manolides, Chief Executive Officer.Commencement has occupied four of the building's six floors at 1102 Commerce for the past 12 years but has called downtown Tacoma its home since opening the doors in 2006. As of 2023, Commencement is the largest bank headquartered in Pierce County and intends to remain as such. Will Frame, Drew Frame, and Ray Schuler of Kidder Mathews represented the Bank on the lease transaction.About Commencement BankCommencement Bank, headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, was formed in 2006 to provide traditional, reliable, and sustainable banking in Pierce, South King, Thurston counties and the surrounding areas. Their team of banking experts focuses on personal attention, flexible service, and building strong relationships with customers through state-of-the-art technology as well as traditional delivery systems. As a local bank, Commencement Bank is deeply committed to the community. For more information, please visitwww.commencementbank.com . For information related to the trading of CBWA, please visitwww.otcmarkets.com Contact Information:John E. Manolides, Chief Executive Officer | 253.284.1802Nigel English, President and Chief Operating Officer | 253.284.1801SOURCE: Commencement Bank (WA)
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BURBANK, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 11, 2024 / Energize Us Edu Inc., a distinguished not-for-profit 501(c)(3) Education Center, is thrilled to announce the launch of the groundbreaking G.R.O.W.T.H. Convention, set to take place in Burbank, California, from July 1 to 3, 2024. This convention stands as a beacon of innovation and empowerment for the skilled trades community, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth, networking, and advancement.The G.R.O.W.T.H. Convention is poised to be the most anticipated event for skilled trades professionals nationwide. Designed to unite hundreds of blue-collar individuals, apprentices, contractors, and industry experts, this two-and-a-half-day extravaganza promises a transformative experience filled with education, hands-on learning, and invaluable networking opportunities.Wilson Betances, the visionary founder of Energize Us Edu Inc., expressed his excitement, stating, "The G.R.O.W.T.H. Convention marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to revolutionize the skilled trades landscape. It's more than just a convention; it's a platform for empowerment, where individuals at every stage of their professional journey can find the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive." Featuring an impressive lineup of renowned guests, including Cameron Vogelsang of Tennessee Electrician LLC, Nick Gentile of Spartan Hero Electric, and Brandon Sirrine of The Solar Goat, among others, the G.R.O.W.T.H. Convention promises to be an unparalleled gathering of industry luminaries and rising stars."At G.R.O.W.T.H., we believe in cultivating a culture where opportunity meets expertise," Betances emphasized. "Whether you're an apprentice refining your craft, a journey-level worker honing your expertise, or a master striving for excellence, this convention is tailored to meet your unique needs and aspirations." Attendees can expect diverse offerings, including networking opportunities to expand professional connections, cutting-edge skills training to stay ahead of industry trends, and insightful sessions on effective business management strategies. Additionally, the convention will address the importance of achieving work-life balance while excelling in one's career and celebrate the invaluable contributions of skilled trades professionals."Join us at the G.R.O.W.T.H. Convention and embark on a journey of advancement, networking, and discovery," urged Betances. "This is your opportunity to access exclusive training sessions, enhance your skills, and elevate your career to new heights-all while connecting with industry leaders who share your passion and dedication." Tickets for the G.R.O.W.T.H. Convention are now available atgrowthconvention.org . As part of the early bird promotion, a special discount on ticket prices is offered until April 15, 2024.About Energize Us Edu Inc.:Energize Us Edu Inc. is a distinguished not-for-profit 501(c)(3) Education Center committed to providing comprehensive training for individuals in the skilled trades. Specializing primarily in electrical industry education, the organization equips students with the essential skills and knowledge required for licensure and success in their respective crafts. Energize Us offers programs that emphasize both practical learning and skill development. Led by its visionary founder, Wilson Betances, the company strives to empower individuals at all levels of expertise, fostering a supportive community dedicated to excellence in the skilled trades.For media inquiries, please contact:Wilson Matthew BetancesFounderEnergize Us Edu Inc.Info@EnergizeUs-EDU.today SOURCE: Energize Us Edu Inc.
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Hagens Berman, National Trial Attorneys, Encourages GL Investors with Substantial Losses to Contact Firms Attorneys Investigating Possible Securities Law ViolationsSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Hagens Berman urges Globe Life Inc. (NYSE:GL) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/gl Contact An Attorney Now: GL@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Globe Life Inc. (GL) Investigation:On April 11, 2024, the price of Global Life shares crashed as much as $57, or down about 54%, after Fuzzy Panda Research published a scathing research report entitled "Globe Life (GL): Executives Disregard Wide-Ranging Insurance Fraud' While They Received Millions in Undisclosed Kickback Scheme." The Fuzzy Panda report, based in part on interviews with dozens of former executives and agents, accuses Globe Life's largest subsidiary (American Income Life, or "AIL") of engaging in insurance fraud that includes: (1) writing policies for dead and fictitious people; (2) forging signatures; (3) withdrawing funds from consumers' bank accounts without approval; and (4) using fictitious bank accounts to fund numerous fake policies so agents hit their bonuses.Fuzzy Panda further reported "[m]ore than three dozen former executives and sales agents said fraudulent business practices began to become widespread at AIL in 2017 as Steve Greer assumed the reins as chief executive and Dave Zophin joined first as executive vice president and then president[]" and "[o]ur interviews with former executives and dozens of former AIL sales agents implicate GREATER than $200 million of fraudulent annual life insurance premium (ALP) written by sales teams." In addition, Fuzzy Panda alleges that Globe Life executives ran a $43 million bribery and kickback scheme to make money from the company's own recruits. The scheme allegedly involved executives' concealing their ownership of an insurance license testing vendor (Xcel Testing) while directing recruits to Xcel to prepare for their licensing exam."We are investigating the propriety of Globe Life's business practices," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Globe Life and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Globe Life investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Globe Life should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email GL@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Contact:Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895Attorney advertising.Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / GMV Minerals Inc. (the "Company" or "GMV") (TSXV:GMV)(OTCQB:GMVMF) is pleased to announce that it has closed the second and final tranche of its non-brokered private placement. The second tranche raised gross proceeds of $80,250 from the issuance of 535,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.15 per Unit. The total private placement raised $301,350 in gross proceeds with the issuance of 2,009,000 Units.Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one half of one Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.25 for a period of twelve months from the date issuance.The Company paid finder's fees totalling $14,286 in cash and 95,240 warrants (the "Finder's Warrants"). Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.25 for a period of twelve months. All finder's fees are subject to compliance with applicable securities legislation and TSX Venture Exchange policies. All securities issued in this closing of the Private Placement are subject to statutory four month hold periods expiring on August 6th and 13th, 2024. The Private Placement remains subject to obtaining final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.The net proceeds of the Offering will be used to advance exploration activities at the Company's 100% controlled Mexican Hat gold property located in S.E. Arizona, advance exploration at the Daisy Creek Lithium project, as well as for general working capital.About GMV Minerals Inc.GMV Minerals Inc. is a publicly traded exploration company focused on developing precious metal assets in Arizona. GMV, through its 100% owned subsidiary, has a 100% interest in a Mining Property Lease commonly referred to as the Mexican Hat Property, located in Cochise County, Arizona, USA. The project was initially explored by Placer Dome (USA) in the late 1980's to early 1990's. GMV is focused on developing the asset and realizing the full mineral potential of the property through near term gold production. GMV. Recently updated its National Instrument inferred mineral resource to 36,733,000 tonnes grading 0.58 g/t gold at a 0.2 g/t cut-off, containing 688,000 ounces of gold.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS___Ian Klassen, PresidentCautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties as described in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.For further information please contact:GMV Minerals Inc.Ian KlassenTel: (604) 899-0106Email:info@ gmvminerals.com SOURCE: GMV Minerals, Inc.
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Performance Followed by Discussion with Artists Led by Climate Change Specialist and HGSSS Board Member Dr. Willi Semmler. Concluding Remarks by Professor Chris Horn on "Climate Risks and Future Ethics".NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / The Henry George School of Social Science announced their Earth Day 2024 event today. 'Sound Economics: Celebrating Earth Day 2024 Through Art, Music, and Economics' will allow guests to step into a world where art, music, economics, and environmental awareness come together. This innovative event invites guests on a journey of exploration and reflection, weaving together classical melodies, contemporary compositions, and powerful visual narratives to shed light on the urgent issue of climate change.Program Details: The program begins with a series of musical vignettes that transport the audience through the economic landscapes of climate risk. Experience the timeless melodies of classical music intertwined with the modern interpretations of Stephen Kennedy Murphy's adaptation of Schubert's song-cycle "The Miller's Daughter." Alongside the musical performances, a Climate Change art exhibition will showcase the bold works of Tony Cruz, a renowned Bronx graffiti art entrepreneur. Explore the vibrant colors and dynamic imagery and confront the economic realities of climate change through contemporary street art. The performance will be followed by a discussion with the artists led by Dr. Willi Semmler, a Climate Change specialist (and HGSSS Board member) who fostered the creation of The Steel Miller's Daughter, with concluding remarks by Professor Chris Horn on "Climate Risks and Future Ethics." The below media alert was issued today.Who:Henry George School of Social Science board members and staff, climate change specialist Dr. Willi Semmler, Professor Chris Horn, renowned Bronx graffiti art entrepreneur Tony Cruz, registered guestsWhat:Step into a world where art, music, economics, and environmental awareness come together. This innovative event invites you on a journey of exploration and reflection, weaving together classical melodies, contemporary compositions, and powerful visual narratives to shed light on the urgent issue of climate change.When:Tuesday, April 18, 2024, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.Where:Henry George School of Social Science, 149 East 38th St., New York, NY 10016Registration:Please register online at www.HGSSS.org Media Contact: Vaughan Communications Group: Jeff Vaughan, jv@ voncom.com , 610-533-4264Contact InformationJeff VaughanPress Contactjv@ voncom.com 610.533.4264SOURCE: Henry George School of Social Science (HGSSS)View the original press release on newswire.com
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Iset Capital Founder and Hedge Fund Expert Joseph Samuels Launches Grant for Musical TheaterNEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / The Joseph Samuels Grant for Musical Theater, an esteemed initiative dedicated to fostering excellence and innovation in the realm of musical theater, proudly announces its call for applications from aspiring artists across the nation. Spearheaded by visionary leader Joseph Samuels, this prestigious grant represents a steadfast commitment to celebrating emerging talent and providing essential support to individuals dedicated to shaping the future of musical theater.Joseph Samuels of Iset Capital, a renowned financial strategist and the founder of Islet Capital Management, brings his unwavering passion for the arts and commitment to excellence to this endeavor. Joseph, born and raised in New Jersey, cultivated his early fascination with economics and finance, laying the foundation for a successful career marked by innovation and strategic insight. Now, with the Joseph Samuels Grant for Musical Theater, Joseph seeks to bridge the gap between finance and the arts, empowering aspiring artists to pursue their dreams in a highly competitive industry.Open to individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, the Joseph Samuels Grant for Musical Theater invites applications from aspiring playwrights, composers, lyricists, directors, choreographers, performers, and other artists who demonstrate a deep-seated passion for musical theater and a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and exhibit a genuine dedication to advancing their careers in musical theater.The grant, valued at $1,000, aims to provide recipients with vital financial assistance to further their education and training in the field of musical theater. With a deadline for submissions set for December 15, 2024, the grant recipient will be announced on January 15, 2025.Applicants are encouraged to reflect on their personal journey and passion for musical theater in their essay submissions. Specifically, they are prompted to explore the inspirations that led them to pursue a career in musical theater, articulate their motivations for continuing on this path, and envision the impact they hope to make in the industry. Furthermore, applicants are asked to detail how they intend to utilize the grant funds to advance their education and training, as well as how they foresee themselves contributing to the vibrant landscape of musical theater in the future. The essay should be no more than 500 words in length, allowing applicants to share personal anecdotes, experiences, and insights that highlight their unique perspectives and aspirations as emerging artists in the field of musical theater.Joseph Samuels, a hedge fund expert, underscores the importance of nurturing creativity and innovation within the arts, emphasizing the transformative power of musical theater to inspire audiences worldwide. Through the Joseph Samuels Grant for Musical Theater, Joseph and his team aim to create opportunities for aspiring artists to thrive, contribute, and ultimately leave an indelible mark on the stage.For further information and to submit an application for the Joseph Samuels Grant for Musical Theater, please visit https://josephsamuelsgrant.com/ AboutFounded by visionary leader of Islet Capital Joseph Samuels, this grant represents a commitment to nurturing and celebrating emerging talent in the realm of musical theater. Joseph, a seasoned financial strategist and founder of Islet Capital Management, brings his passion for innovation and excellence to the arts through this initiative.Born and raised in New Jersey, Joseph Samuel's early fascination with economics and finance laid the foundation for his successful career in the financial industry. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Rutgers University-New Brunswick, he embarked on a journey to establish Islet Capital Management, where he has become known for his adaptive investment approaches and strategic insights.With the Joseph Samuels Grant for Musical Theater, Joseph aims to bridge the worlds of finance and the arts, providing aspiring artists with the financial support they need to pursue their dreams in the competitive world of musical theater. Through this grant, Joseph and his team strive to create opportunities for creativity and innovation, empowering individuals to make their mark on the stage and inspire audiences worldwide. Join us in celebrating the transformative power of musical theater and the vision of Joseph Samuels.Spokesperson: Joseph SamuelsOrganization: Joseph Samuels GrantWebsite: https://josephsamuelsgrant.com Email: apply@ josephsamuelsgrant.com SOURCE: Joseph Samuels Grant
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RADNOR, PA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP informs investors that the firm has filed a securities fraud class action lawsuit against agilon health, inc. (NYSE:AGL) ("agilon" or the "Company"). This action, captioned Hope v. agilon health, inc., et al., Case No. 1:24-cv-00305, was filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas and expanded the class period which was pled in a first-filed case in that same Court. After the Hope action was filed, another case was filed against agilon in another Court, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, which even further expanded the class period as pled in the Hope action as that case is brought on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired agilon common stock between April 15, 2021, and February 27, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period").Important Deadline Reminder: The first-filed action in the Western District of Texas issued a notice of its filing pursuant to the federal securities laws which triggered the deadline of May 20, 2024, for any investors who purchased agilon common stock to seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class. The filing of the Hope Action does not change the May 20, 2024, lead plaintiff deadline.CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR AGILON LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/agilon-health-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=agl&mktm=r CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HERELEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: MAY 20, 2024CLASS PERIOD: APRIL 15, 2021, THROUGH FEBRUARY 27, 2024CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:Jonathan Naji, Esq. (484) 270-1453 or Email at info@ ktmc.com DEFENDANTS' MISCONDUCTagilon is a healthcare and technology company that acts as an intermediary between physician groups that provide medical services to senior citizens and Medicare and Medicare Advantage insurers. One of agilon's key financial metrics is "medical margin," which the Company defines as medical services revenue less medical services expenses.The Class Period begins on April 15, 2021, which is the day after the Registration Statement was declared effective by the SEC and the first day agilon shares were publicly traded in connection with the IPO.Throughout the Class Period, Defendants repeatedly touted the strength of agilon's medical margin. Additionally, Defendants downplayed the significant cost pressures on the Company's medical margin and profitability. For example, on June 7, 2023, just days before other health insurers such as UnitedHealth Group Inc. and Humana Inc. reported significant increases in medical costs, Defendant Bensley, speaking at an analyst-sponsored healthcare conference, reported that Defendants "expect this year to generate somewhere around $550 million of medical margin," noting that the Company has seen "steady progress on medical margin upwards." Investors began to learn the truth about the cost pressures impacting agilon's medical margin and profitability on November 2, 2023, when the Company announced its third quarter 2023 financial results after the market closed. Critically, agilon reported a net loss of $31 million for the third quarter of 2023 and slashed its fiscal year 2023 medical margin to a range between $455 million and $470 million. Defendant Sell also assured investors that agilon's more conservative approach to guidance "should reduce the risk of negative claims development next year." On this news, the price of agilon common stock declined $3.78 per share, or more than 22% over two trading-days, from a close of $16.89 per share on November 2, 2023, to close at $13.11 per share on November 6, 2023.After several additional disclosures in November 2023, investors more fully learned the truth about the cost pressures on agilon's medical margin and profitability before the market opened on January 5, 2024, when agilon updated its fiscal year 2023 financial results and provided its initial outlook for 2024. Critically, agilon further slashed its 2023 medical margin guidance more than $100 million, to a range between $340 million and $360 million, due to "higher-than-expected medical costs." This represented a decline of more than 34% from the $550 million in medical margin it had predicted. On the related investor guidance call, Defendant Sell acknowledged that agilon "failed to recognize these elevated cost trends" and had "a data and analytics gap that led to [the Company] being late in both recognizing the magnitude and source of the utilization shifts." Defendant Sell further indicated that the increased cost trends were expected to persist through 2024. Also on January 5, 2024, Defendant Bensley announced that he would retire in 2024. On this news, the price of agilon common stock plummeted $3.45 per share, or nearly 29%, from a close of $12.08 per share on January 4, 2024, to close at $8.63 per share on January 5, 2024.Finally, on February 27, 2024, agilon disclosed that its 2023 medical margin had in fact come in at just $299 million for the year - far lower than the range of $340 million to $360 million provided just a few weeks prior. Furthermore, agilon slashed its 2024 medical margin guidance by 27%. On this news, the price of agilon common stock dropped from $6.48 per share when the market closed on February 27, 2024, to $6.04 per share on March 1, 2024, a 7% decline on abnormally heavy volume of a three-day period. In subsequent days, the price of agilon stock continued to decline, falling to a low of just $5.66 per share on March 6, 2024, more than 85% below the Class Period high.WHAT CAN I DO?agilon investors may, no later than May 20, 2024, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages agilon investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASEWHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Metallic Minerals Corp. (TSXV:MMG)(OTCQB:MMNGF) ("Metallic Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to report that, further to its news release dated February 26, 2024, it has filed on SEDAR a National Instrument 43-101 technical report entitled "Mineral Resource Estimate for the Keno Silver Project, Yukon, Canada", with an effective date of February 1, 2024.Scott Petsel, President of Metallic Minerals, stated, "The inaugural resource, which defined 18.16 million ounces of silver equivalent (inferred) at the Keno Silver project is a major milestone for the project. The 171 km2 Keno Silver Project, neighboring Hecla Mining's current Keno Hill operations, has very clear opportunities to grow the 2024 Resource Estimate quickly and efficiently with additional drilling, while continuing to advance early-stage targets to new discoveries. The project team is currently working to finalize the next phases of exploration to include additional resource expansion drilling in 2024. Additionally, we anticipate reporting results from our 2023 drill campaign at our La Plata project and providing an update on our alluvial royalty projects over the next few weeks." The Technical Report was authored by Allan Armitage, Ph.D., P.Geo. of SGS Geologic Services ("SGS") an independent Qualified Person and was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The report is available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com and will also be available on the Company's website at www.mmgsilver.com About SGS Geological ServicesSGS Geological Services has an experienced and respected mining team focused on the domestic and international mining industry. The team has considerable experience in estimation and modeling of deposits of all types and practical and theoretical experience having carried out hundreds of assessments for clients. The SGS team consists of a multi-disciplinary group of qualified persons with a strong understanding of the disclosure requirements for Mineral Resources set out in the NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (2016), CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (2014) and a strong understanding of the CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources & Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines 2019.About Metallic MineralsMetallic Minerals Corp. is a Canadian exploration and development stage company, focused on copper, silver, gold, and platinum group elements 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 expanded 2023 NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate highlights a significant porphyry copper-silver resource containing 1.2 Blbs copper and 17.6 Moz of silver with numerous additional targets showing potential for a district scale porphyry corridor. Drill results announced in early 2023 included 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 (acquired by Newmont Corporation in November 2023) to accelerate the advancement of the La Plata project. A 4,500-meter drill program focused on expanding the current mineral resource and testing extensions of strong porphyry-style mineralization was completed in December 2023 with results pending. 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 operations, with more than 300 Moz of high-grade silver in past production and current M&I resources. The new 2024 Resource Estimate at the Company's Keno Silver Project adds 18.16 Moz silver equivalent to the Company's total resources. Hecla, the largest primary silver producer in the USA and soon to be Canada's largest with full production at its Keno Hill operations in 2024.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.All of the districts in which Metallic Minerals operates have seen significant mineral production and have existing infrastructure, including power and road access. Metallic Minerals 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.mmgsilver.com Email: cackerman@ mmgsilver.com Phone: 604-629-7800Toll Free: 1-888-570-4420Forward-Looking StatementsThis 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 assumptio
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Monster and CoD Reunited for Another Year of Gaming and GivingCORONA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Monster Energy is delighted to announce the recipient charities of its $100,000 'Beat The Beast' tournament. The Call of Duty competition, live-streamed on Twitch, brought together gaming enthusiasts and top-notch streamers for a charitable cause.The Beast Squad dominated the virtual battlefield with a 2-hour stream on each day, showcasing some of Monster Energy's top streamers, including Atlanta FaZe, Jericho, TeeP, and Rogue. These gaming titans led their squads against challenger squads from the general public in epic Call of Duty showdowns.Following the tournament's conclusion, each of the four victorious streamers had the privilege of selecting a favorite charity, which have each now received a check for $25,000 from Monster Energy.The chosen charities and their respective streamers are:TeeP:AbleGamers Rogue:Doctors Without Borders Jericho:American Humane FaZe:COD EndowmentAdditionally, here are some notable statistics from the Beat The Beast Tournament:Live Views: 2.4 Million + Total Stream Duration: 9.5 hours Max Concurrent Viewers: 19,000 Avg. Concurrent Viewers: 10,000 Avg. Unique Viewers/Stream: 433,000 Beast Squad Record: 17-10Viewers tuning in for the action-packed streams witnessed thrilling battles and had the chance to earn exclusive 2XP codes by watching the live broadcasts."We're thrilled with the success of the Monster Energy "Beat the Beast" Call of Duty charity tournament; it was a high-octane spectacle of epic battles and meaningful contributions," said Monster CMO, Dan McHugh. "This event not only showcased the skill and competitiveness of our top streamers and esports teams, but also emphasized our commitment to supporting impactful charities. We believe that gaming has the power to make a positive change, and this tournament is a testament to that belief." This initiative underscores Monster Energy's dedication to making a positive impact in the world by combining the love for gaming with charitable giving.Don't miss the chance to be part of our next exhilarating event and contribute to meaningful causes. Stay tuned for more updates from Monster Energy.About Monster Energy:Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy is the leading marketer of energy drinks and alternative beverages. Refusing to acknowledge the traditional, Monster Energy supports the scene and sport. Whether motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MMA, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, eSports or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster Energy is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes, gamers and musicians represent. More than a drink, it's the way of life lived by athletes, bands, believers, and fans. See more about Monster Energy including all of its drinks at www.monsterenergy.com Media contact:info@ monsterenergy.com TeeP donates to AbleGamers Image Courtesy Monster EnergyView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Monster Energy on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Monster EnergyWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/monster-energy Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Monster Energy
PR-Inside.com: 2024-04-12 15:00:56

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Visited publishes Top 20 Culinary Experiences in the World as per the travel app's 2 million international travel users. Visited provides users with custom travel map and personalized bucket lists.TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Visited app, a travel app published by Arriving In High Heels Corporation, announces the publication of its Top 20 Culinary Experiences in the World list, based on international travelers' experiences. The app, created in order for visitors to remember their travel journeys, now also helps discover new destinations and travel experiences.The Ultimate Food List Mots popular culinary experiences as per the Visited AppAmong all the popular travel apps, there is a gap in the industry, which Visited hopes to address. The gap includes travel bucket lists and the ability to map past travels and understand personal travel trends. The app allows users to:Create a personalized travel map of all countries, regions, states and cities visited or wished to visit Print a Customized Travel Poster of their travels Check off famous places and travel experiences on travel lists Discover new destinations by categories and images See Personalized Travel StatsThe culinary travel list, along with other travel lists, allows users to select where they have been or want to go based on different travel categories. The list can be sorted by alphabet, country or popularity. There are over 150 travel lists available:Wine Regions Cruise Ports National Parks World Wonders And More These are the food and drink that are worth traveling for and most frequently enjoyed by international travelers:Crepes in France Paella in Spain Chocolate in Belgium Parisian Pastries Croissants in FranceThe ultimate Culinary Experience list is found inside the Visited app, available to download on iOS or Android for free.About Visited Travel AppThe travel app, Visited, is an app created for the purpose of looking back at all the travel that a user has done. It later expanded into a travel planner in order to continue the user's travel journey. The app was developed by data-driven travelers and has important insights into the number of countries a traveler has been to and what percentage of their personal travel journey they are on, as well as many other travel stats.Understanding that people travel for different reasons, experiences and sites, the Visited team has put together over 150 travel lists based on different travel categories. Examples of travel lists include: world wonders, ski destinations, beaches, beer destinations, cruise ports, murals around the world, and so on. The travel lists are also added as per users' feedback. Ranking the popularity of travel places by categories makes it easier for other travelers to discover new places to visit.Other features of the app include: printing a personalized travel map, personalized travel itinerary based on places of interest selected, inspirational photos to add to your bucket list and personalized stats.The travel app is available in 30 languages and is available on iOS or Android and free to download.To learn more about the Visited app and its latest feature update, please visit https://visitedapp.com/ About Arriving In High Heels CorporationArriving In High Heels Corporation is a mobile app company with apps including Pay Off Debt, X-Walk and Visited, their most popular app.Visited app has travel stats that are unique to the travel industry with a sample of travel stats reported on their annual travel report.Contact InformationAnna KayfitzCEOanna@ arrivinginhighheels.com SOURCE: Arriving In High Heels CorporationView the original press release on newswire.com
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LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / We're thrilled to announce the achievement of Nexergy's strategic acquisition of Cassandra, a vital moment in our journey towards revolutionizing sustainable resource production throughout Europe.Our passion atNexergyhas always been to champion the cause of self-sustainability and to elevate resource production within Europe. Welcoming Cassandra into our family turbocharges our mission, to the sustainable resource production with a sharp focus on the advancement of green energy.This acquisition transcends growth tactics-it's a transformative surge towards hands-on production and amplifying our impact on Europe's sustainable energy landscape. We're pleased to welcome Cassandra's shareholders to the Nexergy fold and are eager to embark on this unified path towards a brighter, greener future.Looking ahead, Nexergy is set to dramatically broaden its production horizons across the UK and Europe. At the forefront of our strategic agenda is the deployment of advanced production facilities, specifically engineered to enhance the production of green oil.' This initiative is essential in our commitment to spearheading the sustainable energy transition across Europe. By leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable practices, our goal is to significantly increase the availability of green oil.We're excited about the possibilities this acquisition unlocks and are wholeheartedly committed to our shared vision of a sustainable, resource-rich Europe. Please remain informed of our forthcoming advancements as we persist in pioneering innovative solutions, transforming the energy landscape, and delivering substantial contributions to environmental sustainability. Our commitment is to continuously explore and implement groundbreaking strategies that redefine the energy sector, ensuring our pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable and ecologically responsible future.Anders Olsson, CEO of Cassandra, shares the enthusiasm"Joining hands with Nexergy marks a new and exciting chapter for Cassandra! This significant milestone in our journey towards sustainable resource development in Europe is a beacon of progress and opportunity. Together with Nexergy, we're combining our strengths, innovation, and leadership in sustainable energy production to accelerate our growth, expand our tech capabilities, and work hand-in-hand for a greener, more prosperous Europe.Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to all our employees, customers, and partners for your unwavering support and trust. We're confident that this new adventure will unlock opportunities for everyone involved and significantly contribute to our collective dream of a sustainable world." Let's celebrate this momentous union and look forward to a future filled with innovation, sustainability, and growth. Here's to making Europe greener and more sustainable, together!About Nexergy:Nexergy Holding PLC is an investment firm with a strategic objective to acquire companies and technologies that enable environmentally friendly energy production.Company Name: Nexergy Holdings PLCContact Person: Philip AndersonContact Email:ir@ nexergyholding.comWebsite link: www.nexergyholding.com SOURCE: Nexergy Holdings PLC
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DUBAI, UAE / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / In the whirlwind of the current cryptocurrency bull run, where prices surge and optimism abounds, one token has emerged as a standout performer: Nirvana's $VANA token. With projections pointing towards exponential growth, here's a comprehensive overview of why $VANA is poised to multiply amidst the bull run frenzy and what investors need to know.Unveiling Nirvana's Vision: Revolutionizing the Metaverse and Gaming LandscapeNirvana isn't merely another cryptocurrency project; it embodies a revolutionary vision for the future of the metaverse and gaming industries. At its core, Nirvana aims to establish a decentralized platform where users can immerse themselves in virtual worlds, engage with fellow enthusiasts, and monetize their experiences.Harnessing the power of blockchain technology and decentralized finance (DeFi), Nirvana empowers users with unprecedented control over their digital assets and identities. Whether trading virtual real estate, acquiring in-game items, or showcasing creative content, users transact with confidence, assured by the immutable ledger of the blockchain.The Catalyst: $VANA Token's Role in Driving Growth and InnovationCentral to Nirvana's ecosystem is the $VANA token, a dynamic digital asset that serves as the lifeblood of the platform. $VANA facilitates transactions, incentivizes active participation, and facilitates decentralized governance mechanisms, empowering the community to shape the platform's evolution.The projected surge in $VANA's value is underpinned by several factors. Foremost among these is the escalating demand for digital assets within the metaverse and gaming sectors. As the desire for immersive experiences and exclusive digital assets grows, so too does the demand for $VANA tokens, propelling its value to unprecedented heights.Furthermore, strategic collaborations and partnerships augment the utility and value proposition of the $VANA token. By forging alliances with industry leaders in the metaverse and gaming realms, Nirvana extends its reach and enhances $VANA's utility, attracting a diverse audience and driving adoption.Navigating the Bull Run: Capitalizing on the MomentumAs cryptocurrency markets experience a surge in bullish sentiment, characterized by soaring prices and heightened investor interest, projects like Nirvana are well-positioned to capitalize on this favorable environment. The influx of capital into the crypto space amplifies the upward trajectory of promising assets, propelling $VANA towards new milestones.Moreover, during bull runs, investor sentiment favors innovative projects with strong fundamentals, such as Nirvana. Investors seeking exponential growth opportunities gravitate towards projects offering tangible use cases and robust development, further fueling demand for $VANA and accelerating its ascent.Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity with Nirvana's $VANA TokenIn conclusion, Nirvana's $VANA token presents a compelling investment opportunity amidst the current bull run in cryptocurrency markets. With its visionary approach to the metaverse and gaming sectors, coupled with strategic partnerships and favorable market conditions, $VANA is primed for exponential growth.As investors navigate the dynamic landscape of digital assets, identifying projects with enduring potential and solid fundamentals is paramount. With Nirvana's forward-thinking vision and the transformative potential of its $VANA token, investors have the opportunity to capitalize on the momentum of the bull run and unlock significant value along the way. Website: nirvana-project.com Twitter: twitter.com/vanametaverse Email: official.vana@nirvana-project.com SOURCE: Nirvana Project
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BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / NOA Lithium Brines Inc. (TSX-V:NOAL)(FSE:N7N) ("NOA" or the "Company") is pleased to report positive lithium results from brine samples from RG23-005, the fifth hole of the Phase 1 diamond drill program at its Rio Grande project ("Rio Grande" or the "Project"). The hole, located at the Juana Azul claim within the salar, completed to a depth of 602 meters ("m"), intersected a high-grade lithium (" Li ") brine aquifer of significant thickness starting from a down-hole depth of only 1 m.Highlights from the fifth drill hole include:Near-Surface: Lithium brine-saturated geological units were encountered starting at only 1 meter below surface , indicating the Project's vast potential.Extensive Brine-Bearing Units: Approximately 530 m of lithium brine-bearing units were identified through 41 packer tests, affirming substantial lithium content within the salar.Average concentration of 464 mg/l Li in the upper 350 m, while the remainder of the hole averaged a high-grade concentration of 474 mg/l Li; and Encountered highest-grade concentration of 607 mg/l Li at 203 m. NOA's Chief Executive Officer Gabriel Rubacha states: "The results of this 5 th hole reaffirm the potential of our Rio Grande project. We are now focused on the next stages where we expect to expand the resource drilling areas not explored yet and start our pumping holes campaign to support the development of the project. We expect to start this second stage during Q2 this year".Hole RG23-005 was executed with diamond drilling (HQ-size), permitting the extraction of core samples of the salar basin formations and collection of brine samples, where available. Drilling was carried out by Salta-based Hidrotec S.A., under the supervision of NOA's geologists.Diamond drill hole RG23-005 was completed at a depth of 602 m. At a depth of 1 m, the formations saturated with brine began. The lithology of the well is composed mainly by sand with sulfate intercalations and a lower proportion of crystalline halite, with contents that are variable along the depth of the well. Packer test sampling was carried out and almost the entire depth of the +600 m well returned brine-saturated units (approximately 530 m of the 602 m drilled), except for one horizon ranging 40 m in thickness.Brine packer samples have been sent for laboratory analyses, including multi-element geochemical analysis for lithium and other relevant elements, and results are expected in the coming weeks. Selected drill core samples were sent to an accredited laboratory for physical property tests, including drainable porosity.Results for Hole RG23-005The results of the brine analyses and the respective intervals are shown in Table 1 below and drill collar information is presented in Table 2 below. Hole RG23-005, drilled at the Juana Azul claim (shown in Figure 1 below) reached a depth of 602 m.Table 1: Interval Data & Li Assays (double packer sampling) For Drillhole DDH-RG23-5Figure 1: Plan Map Showing Well RG23-005 And Previous Completed WellsTable 1: RG23-005 - Drill collar informationHole #:RG23-005Azimuth:0 deg.Claim name:Juana AzulInclination:-90 deg.Coordinates (UTM 19J South): E: 588494 mN: 7233176 m,Z: 3669 mContractor:Hidrotec S.A.Machine type:HT07 LF-90Drill type:DiamondHole diameter:HQBridge Loan FinancingThe Company also announces that it has entered into a short-term unsecured loan agreement (the "Agreement") with Mr. Gabriel Rubacha (the "Lender"), the Company's Chief Executive Officer and a Director. Under the Agreement and on or about April 8, 2024 ("Disbursement Date"), the Lender will advance the Company a USD $1 million (the "Loan Amount") term loan (the "Bridge Financing") with repayment terms as disclosed below. The Bridge Financing is expected to be repaid to the Lender in 60-90 days from the date hereof, as the Company is in advanced discussions with strategic investors regarding longer term capital financing for the Company. The Company plans to use the proceeds from the Bridge Financing to pay incurred capital expenditures and for general corporate working capital.The Bridge Financing will have a maturity date of December 31, 2024 ("Maturity Date") and may be repaid by the Company with interest, if any ("Repayment Amount") in whole or in part with no penalty at any time before the Maturity Date (the "Repayment Date"). The Repayment Amount will be determined by using the value of 142,000 common shares of Lithium Americas Corp. ("LAC"), as traded on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE ) under the symbol "LAC", multiplied by the closing price of the LAC common shares on the NYSE on the Disbursement Date, which equals the Loan Amount; and the exact Repayment Amount to be paid on the Repayment Date will be the aggregate value of the 142,000 LAC common shares multiplied by the closing price of the LAC common shares on the NYSE on the Repayment Date.The Lender has also agreed to share in any such depreciation that may occur of the LAC common shares between the Disbursement Date and the Repayment Date and for clarity only the same number of LAC common shares as of the Disbursement Date will be required to be repaid by the Company to the Lender on the Repayment Date.Further and pursuant to the Agreement, beginning on the date that is 150 days from the Disbursement Date and until the Maturity Date, the Repayment Amount may be converted into common shares of the Company at a price per security that is the maximum allowable discount permitted by the TSX Venture Exchange at the time the conversion is made and the accrued interest, if any, becomes payable, and such convertible terms shall comply with the Policies of the TSX Venture Exchange and be subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.NOA's Executive Director, Hernan Zaballa, states regarding the Bridge Loan: "This financial commitment provided by Mr. Rubacha continues to show the support and confidence of management in the vast potential of the Rio Grande project." The Bridge Financing obtained from the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Director constitutes a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). This transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the transaction, nor the consideration paid to the lender of the Bridge Financing, who is a related party of the Company, would exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Compan
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / Regency Silver Corp. ("Regency Silver" or the "Company", TSXV:RSMX and OTCQB:RSMXF) is pleased to announce that it has closed a further $215,200 of a previously announced non-brokered private placement of $800,000. Due to demand the offering was upsized to a total of $993,700.Regency Silver has issued 1,076,000 units at a price of $0.20 per unit on this final tranche closing for gross proceeds of CAD$215,200. Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one half of one transferable common share purchase warrant (the "Warrants"). Each whole Warrant is exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of CAD$0.30 per share for a period of two years from the date of issuance.In connection with this closing, the Company paid cash finder's fees of $8,492 and issued 42,460 broker warrants. Each broker warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of CAD$0.30 per share for a period of two years from the date of issuance.All securities issued under the private placement will be subject to a four month hold period, in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.The proceeds will be used for exploration and development of the Company's properties and general working capital.For further details about Regency Silver please visit the Company's website at www.Regency-Silver.com Contact InformationRegency Silver Corp.Kin Communications Inc.Phone: 1-604-684-6730Email: RSMX@ kincommunications.com Bruce Bragagnolo, Executive ChairmanPhone: 1-604-417-9517Email: bruce@ regency-silver.com Gijsbert Groenewegen, Chief Executive OfficerPhone: 1-646-247-1000Email: gijs@ regency-silver.com ABOUT REGENCY SILVER CORP.:Regency Silver Corp. is a Canadian resource company exploring for high grade gold, copper, and silver in Mexico. Regency Silver is led by a team of experienced professionals with expertise in both exploration and production. Regency's flagship project is the high grade Dios Padre project in Sonora, Mexico where Regency has made a large, high grade, gold-copper-silver discovery which appears to be a large magmatic-hydrothermal system which widens at depth. Drill results have included 38 metres of 7.36 g/t gold in hole REG 23-21, 36 metres of 6.84 g/t gold, 0.88% copper and 21.8 g/t silver in hole REG 22-01, and 29.4 m of 6.32 g/t gold in hole REG 23-14.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: Regency Silver Corp.
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GPT-Trainer launches an LLM-native AI chatbot framework for no/low-code users, enhancing business operations and customer service.BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 12, 2024 / GPT-Trainer, a leader in conversational AI technology, has launched a novel LLM-native (Large Language Model) multi-Agent framework, marking a significant advancement in the realm of AI chatbot development. The platform, designed to work well with both highly technical and no-code users, will enhance the efficiency of business operations and improve automatic resolution of customer service interactions. With out-of-the-box features such as ChatGPT-like AI trained on your own data, lead collection, conversation monitoring and tagging, frustration detection, meeting scheduling, human support escalation, and workspace sharing controls, GPT-trainer can be customized to reliably support a wide range of customer service use cases. When properly connected to your own database, it can even handle automatic order placement, status tracking, and returns.Mr. Hunter Zhao, CEO of GPT-Trainer, commented on the release, "Our platform delivers a unique innovation in conversational AI technology. Our vision is to establish a new process for chatbot development, making chatbots much more powerful, versatile, and less tedious to build compared to conventional workflow-centric frameworks like botpress and voiceflow." As the first of its kind, GPT-Trainer allows the creation of multi-agent chatbots capable of executing function calls via external APIs. This enables the chatbot to connect with external data sources and tools, on-demand, in response to incoming user queries. GPT-trainer also supports built-in retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) capabilities trained from diverse document types like PDFs, Word, Excel, and various scraped website content.If you are working with complex chatbot projects, GPT-Trainer can connect you with knowledgeable industry specialists across ecommerce, transportation, real estate, software, healthcare, and education. Companies implementing GPT-Trainer have reported upwards of 32% increase in effective lead capture through chatbots compared to traditional methods like static web forms. Chatbot self-service resolution rate can go up as high as 73% accompanied by a 50% reduction in average time-to-resolution.GPT-trainer is open to the general public. To try it out, new users simply have to create an account. Users can then upload their training data and immediately start customizing the chatbot's behavior and appearance, including brand-specific adaptations. Simple chatbots can be made in just minutes.When asked about data security practices, CEO Hunter Zhao responds, "We are enterprise-ready. Our platform is SOC II and ISO 27001 certified. We will be fully compliant with GDPR by June 2024." Additionally, Mr. Zhao highlighted the company's dedication to data privacy, underscoring its commitment to secure and responsible AI development. GPT-trainer is fully aligned with OpenAI's enterprise data protection policies and will never use uploaded data for large language model (LLM) training or fine-tuning purposes.Alongside the launch, GPT-Trainer is offering a free commercial license program designed to enable AI professionals, consultancies, and freelancers to whitelabel the platform and expand their existing product offerings. The initiative empowers these groups to leverage GPT-Trainer's technology and deploy sophisticated AI solutions for their clients, fostering new opportunities for revenue generation and service enhancement. The partnership operates on a revenue-sharing basis, and participants retain up to 85% of the revenue from their sales. Details can be found on GPT-trainer's website or by contacting hello@ gpt-trainer.com As the landscape of digital technology evolves, GPT-Trainer's latest offering advances its position as a key pioneer in the industry, making it possible for agencies to create powerful conversational AI technology for their clients.Visit the official website of GPT-trainer ( https://gpt-trainer.com/) for any media or commercial inquiries or contact the team at hello@ gpt-trainer.com About Company: GPT-trainer simplifies the process of AI chatbot creation and integration. The company is offering innovative solutions for businesses seeking to enhance their customer service and operational efficiency. With its pioneering LLM-native multi-Agent AI chatbot framework, GPT-trainer provides a versatile platform for no-code / low-code development. GPT-trainer is a Boston-based company founded in 2023 by Caltech and MIT graduates.Media Details Company Name: GPT-trainerMail: hello@ gpt-trainer.com City & Country: BOSTON, MAWebsite: https://gpt-trainer.com/ SOURCE: GPT-trainer
A Nigerian doctor in the UK, Ewere Onyekpe, accused of having sex with a patient in a hospitals toilet cubicle, has been suspended for an additional six months.

Mr Onyekpe is said to have begun a sexual relationship with the woman while employed as a locum registrar at the Whittington Hospital, London.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported in 2023 how the Medical Practitioners Tribunal of the General Medical Council (MPT of the GMC)  a medical regulatory body in the UK, imposed a sanction of a six-month suspension on Mr Onyekpes practising licence after he was found guilty by an investigative tribunal.

Having completed the six-month suspension, the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA) appealed against the MPTs decision before a UK court on the ground that it failed to take into account the vulnerability of the patient within the allegation.

However, a tribunal hearing in February reconsidered the case. It determined that Mr Onyekpes registration should be suspended for 12 months having been found guilty of misconduct which was later reduced to six months to reflect the suspension already served.

The details of the case and decisions of the tribunal chaired by Tanveer Rakhim are highlighted in a 61-page document exclusively obtained by PREMIUM TIMES after the hearing held from 12 February to 29 February.

How it happened

The tribunal heard that Mr Onyekpe, a Nigerian-born medical doctor, examined the patient after she was brought to the Whittington Hospitals Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department by ambulance on 5 June 2020.

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He made a diagnosis of sciatica and prescribed pain-killing medication for her and had an intimate examination which was considered to be appropriate.

It was Mr Onyekpes unchallenged evidence that before the patient left the hospital, she gave him her telephone number on a piece of paper saying in case you want to be friends or anything.

Mr Onyekpe sent the patient a WhatsApp message an hour after she was discharged from A&E and the pair exchanged messages over the coming days.

On 10 June, she was brought back to Whittingtons emergency department where she exchanged messages with the doctor for three-and-a-half hours which became personal and highly sexualised.

The pair had consensual sexual intercourse in the hospitals toilet cubicle that same day, the tribunal heard. The next day, Mr Onyekpe went to the patients home and again had consensual sex with her.

The tribunal further heard that the pair continued to exchange sexual messages, interspersed with medical advice from Mr Onyekpe, until 24 July 2020.

On 3 August 2020, Mr Onyekpe was arrested on suspicion of raping the patient but the police released him without charge, after which GMC found out about the facts of his arrest.

Demands for erasure from medical records

The representative of the medical regulatory body, Rosalind Emsley-Smith, submitted at the tribunal that the appropriate and proportionate sanction in this case was one of erasure.

Ms Emsley-Smith stated that Mr Onyekpe had admitted the majority of the allegations he faced before the tribunal and the totality of the allegations he had faced before a previous tribunal.

About the aggravating factors of the case, Ms Emsley-Smith submitted that Mr Onyekpe used his position as a doctor to pursue a sexual and improper emotional relationship with the vulnerable patient.

Ms Emsley-Smith submitted that the only way to remedy the damage to the reputation of the profession, which she said had occurred as a consequence of Mr Onyekpes decisions and conduct, would be to erase his name from the medical register.

However, in his defence, the doctors representative, James Counsell, submitted that Mr Onyekpe accepts responsibility for his misconduct, reminding the tribunal that it occurred nearly four years ago.

Mr Counsell submitted that Mr Onyekpe has always acknowledged that his behaviour transgressed professional boundaries and that he had let everybody down, including himself, his family and his colleagues.

He stated that Mr Onyekpe was a family man with a supportive wife and referred to the various testimonials that spoke of him as a man with integrity.

Mr Counsell stated that the GMC accepted that the relationship was entirely consensual. He referred to the rape allegation and Mr Onyekpes arrest in the presence of his wife, as well as the investigation by the GMC and the Trust, and how he cooperated with the entire process.

After the submissions, the tribunal concluded that Mr Onyekpes conduct, spanning seven weeks, demonstrated a failure to prioritise the care of the patient, who was vulnerable at all material times.

Tribunals decision, conclusion

The tribunal concluded that the misconduct was adequately addressed with the substantive suspension, adding that it is not necessary to impose an immediate order of suspension on Mr Onyekpes registration.

This means that Mr Onyekpes registration will be suspended from the medical register 28 days from the date on which written notification of this decision is deemed to have been served unless he lodges an appeal, the tribunal noted

If Mr Onyekpe does lodge an appeal he will remain free to practice unrestricted until the outcome of any appeal is known.

For the same reasons, the tribunal also determined to revoke the interim order of conditions with immediate effect.

About Onyekpe

Mr Onyekpe, born in Nigeria, received his medical qualification in 2003 from Kharkiv State Medical University in Ukraine. He began his medical practice in Nigeria, with the Nigerian Army, before moving to the UK in 2008.

According to the document, he pursued a Masters in Public Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and passed the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board test (PLAB) in 2010 and he began full-time medical practice in the UK the same year.

Mr Onyekpe initially worked at the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital before working at the North Middlesex Hospital as an SHO and then as a Trust Registrar for six years, before briefly working in Basildon as a speciality doctor.

In 2016, he entered a formal training programme and began work as an ST1 in Emergency Medicine and completed ST3 training in 2019.

Mr Onyekpe was employed as a locum registrar at the Whittington Hospital, where the index events took place, from August 2019 until November 2019, and then March 2020 to the end of June 2020. He was working a 60-hour week, five days per week, working exclusively on nights.

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The U.S. Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has donated advanced laboratory equipment and supplies to Nigeria to assist with the countrys efforts to detect disease threats and provide rapid responses and outbreak control.

The disease agency presented the supplies to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) on Friday, 12 April, to help the country sustain the quality of laboratory outputs.

CDC official speaks

The CDCs Programme Director for Global Health Protection, Farah Husain, who led the agencys team to NCDC, said the donation is to help Nigeria resolve the difficulties caused by disease outbreaks, noting that laboratories are a cornerstone of outbreak responses.

She said: Nigeria is currently facing several ongoing disease outbreaks, including Lassa fever, diphtheria, and meningitis. Laboratory scientists play a vital role in quickly detecting and confirming cases, which is crucial for an effective outbreak response.

She noted that the increased volume of laboratory work created by these simultaneous outbreaks creates a pressing need for additional resources.

The United States is committed to working hand-in-hand with Nigeria to build response capacity and protect the health of our people, even as she added that: The U.S. Government, via the U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, is proud to donate equipment and supplies to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention to support emergency response laboratory activities.

NCDC promises judicious use

Responding, the NCDC Director General, Jide Idris, promised that the agency would make judicious use of the equipment.

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According to him, the government cannot sufficiently fund a health system, which he said necessitates the need for such a partnership.

Mr Idris, a former Health Commissioner in Lagos, said: We require this kind of collaboration from different partners. The idea and the goal is to reduce the incidence.

As we said, the government is funding the sector, but the funding may not necessarily be adequate now. The health system is very expensive, and no government can fund it on its own. It requires this kind of collaboration from different partners.

More importantly, in terms of global health security, one of the major focuses is collaboration and partnerships both internationally, nationally, and sub-nationally because everybody is coming in with different expertise, and we will not necessarily have all the expertise we need, but with this kind of collaboration in boosting productivity.

He said the goal is to achieve a reduction in incidents of diseases. And where you cannot stop, we respond adequately so that we can bring down the effect of any disease, that is the essence here.

So collaborations and partnerships are key essentials of health security, he added.

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Nigeria has become the first country in the world to roll out a new vaccine- Men5CV, to protect people against five strains of the meningococcus bacteria.

The new vaccine was recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and is said to have the potential to change the trajectory of meningitis disease and prevent future outbreaks.

According to a news release Friday on WHOs website, the vaccine and emergency vaccination activities are funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which funds the global meningitis vaccine stockpile and supports lower-income countries with routine vaccination against meningitis.

Data from WHO shows Nigeria recorded 1,742 suspected meningitis cases, including 101 confirmed cases and 153 deaths in seven states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Katsina, Yobe, Zamfara, between 1 October 2023 and 11 March.

WHO said the outbreak of Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus) serogroup C led to the recorded cases.

Nigeria is one of the 26 meningitis hyper-endemic countries in Africa, as the continent recorded a 50 per cent jump in annual meningitis cases in 2023.

Vaccination campaign

WHO noted that to quell the deadly outbreak of meningitis, a vaccination campaign was undertaken from 25 to 28 March, to initially reach more than one million people aged 1-29 years.

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Meningitis is an old and deadly foe, but this new vaccine holds the potential to change the trajectory of the disease, preventing future outbreaks and saving many lives, the WHO Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, was quoted to have said.

Nigerias rollout brings us one step closer to our goal to eliminate meningitis by 2030.

In his remarks, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, said the vaccine provides health workers with a new tool to stop the outbreak and also put the country on a path to elimination.

Mr Pate said the ministry got the support of community leaders with the rollout and is working on expansion.

Weve done a lot of work preparing health workers and the health system for the rollout of this new vaccine. We got invaluable support from our populations despite this fasting period and from our community leaders especially the Emir of Gumel in Jigawa State who personally launched the vaccination campaign in the state, Mr Pate said.

Well be monitoring progress closely and hopefully expanding the immunisation in the coming months and years to accelerate progress.

According to the UK Minister for Development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell, the rollout of one million vaccines in northern Nigeria will help save lives, prevent long-term illness, and boost the goal of defeating meningitis globally by 2030.

This is exactly the kind of scientific innovation, supported by the UK, which I hope is replicated in years to come to help us drive further breakthroughs, including wiping out other diseases, he was quoted as saying.

More about vaccine

WHO explained that the revolutionary new vaccine offers a powerful shield against the five major strains of the meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, Y, and X) in a single shot.

The global agency said: All five strains cause meningitis and blood poisoning. This provides broader protection than the current vaccine used in much of Africa, which is only effective against the A strain.

The new vaccine has the potential to significantly reduce meningitis cases and advance progress in defeating meningitis. This is especially important for countries like Nigeria where multiple serogroups are prevalent.

It added that the new vaccine uses the same technology as the meningitis A conjugate vaccine (MenAfriVac), which wiped out meningococcal A epidemics in Nigeria.

WHO also noted that the new multivalent conjugate vaccine was 13 years in the making and was based on a partnership between PATH and the Serum Institute of India, with funding support from the UK governments Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

About Meningitis

Meningitis is a serious infection that leads to the inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. There are multiple causes of meningitis, including viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens.

Symptoms often include headache, fever, and stiff neck. Bacterial meningitis is the most serious, it can also result in septicaemia (blood poisoning), and can seriously disable or kill within 24 hours those that contract it.

To respond to the outbreak in Nigeria, WHO has been supporting the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) in disease surveillance, active case finding, sample testing, and case management.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opened the trial of a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, at the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja on Friday, by calling its first witness.

Mr Osazuwa, a senior supervisor at the CBN, testified in the trial on fresh 26 counts, including alleged $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion fraud, filed against Mr Emefiele, and his co-defendant, Henry Omoile.

The charges include alleged abuse of office, contrary and punishable under Section 73 of the Criminal Law of Lagos 2011; accepting gratification, contrary and punishable under Section 8 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000; corrupt demand, contrary and punishable under Section 10 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000.

They also include receiving property fraudulently obtained, contrary to and punishable under Section 328 of the Criminal Law of Lagos 2011; and conferring corrupt advantage, contrary to Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000.

Mr Omoile faces only three of the 26 counts, which relate to acceptance of gifts by agents, contrary to Section 65 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Emefiele had, on Monday, pleaded not guilty to all the charges, marking the beginning of Mr Emefieles second fraud and corruption trial based on his indictment by Jim Obaze, a special investigator engaged by President Bola Tinubu to investigate the activities of the CBN on his watch.

Based on the findings of the special investigator, the EFCC is prosecuting Mr Emefiele at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja over his alleged corrupt activities as CBN governor.

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At Fridays hearing in Lagos, EFCCs first prosecution witness, Mr Osazuwa, told the trial judge, Rahman Oshodi, how Mr Emefiele allegedly, corruptly received about $3.1 million from companies like NIPCO Plc and Raja Punjab and conferred corrupt advantage on his associates.

The EFCC shared a statement with PREMIUM TIMES detailing Mr Osazuwas testimony on Friday. Mr Osazuwa was led in his testimony by the prosecuting lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

Revelations

Mr Osazuwa traced his over two-decades relationship with Mr Emefiele to Zenith Bank Plc where they both worked before transitioning to the central bank in 2014.

I worked with him from 2002 to 2014 at Zenith Bank; and then, 2014 to 2023 at the CBN, he said.

The witness said he ran errands for Mr Emefiele having earned the latters trust.

Sometime in 2020, he (Mr Emefiele) called me, while he was outside of Lagos, that he would give me a number to call and that I had something to collect for him.

The person confirmed the same and gave me another number that it was his boy who would give me, the witness said.

Mr Osazuwa identified the first person as Mohit, who gave him the number of his boy, whom he identified as Mr Raja.

He further said, So, I got there at Adeola Odeku (in Victoria Island, Lagos) and he welcomed me. I sat down and waited, as he brought the thing and gave me an envelope.

I said What is in it? and Mr Raja brought it out and counted it. Then, I sealed it back.

He further testified that the envelope contained $100,000 and that Mr Emefiele was not around at the time.

So, he instructed me to give it to the second defendant for him.

That was not the end, as after a few weeks interval, he (Mr Emefiele) said I should call Mohit, if he had anything.

Then, again, I collected the money and they were not the same amount.

The first defendant said I should be finding out every Friday from Mohit if he had anything to give him.

He also testified that he was sometimes instructed by Mr Emefiele to deposit cheques in the account of Dumies Oil and Gas.

According to him, the second defendant resides in Mr Emefieles house in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The highest money I collected from Mr. Raja was $1 million, and all the money was in cash.

There was also $850,000, $750,000, and $400,000. I never took anything out of the money. He trusts me. He never said to me that I should take it out of it, Mr Osazuwa told the judge.

Meanwhile, under cross-examination by the defence counsel, A. Labi-Lawal, Mr Osazuwa reiterated that he only acted on Mr Emefieles instruction.

Prosecution seeks closed-door hearing

Earlier, Mr Oyedepo prayed the court for accelerated hearing.

He also prayed the judge to allow the first to seventh witnesses to tesify in-camera.

The prosecutor cited safety concerns.

In his response, Mr Labi-Lawal raised no objections to Mr Rotimis request for accelerated hearing, but objected to witnesses testifying in-camera.

READ ALSO: Lagos court grants Emefiele N50 million bail

The prosecution has not substantiated their claim, and so we want a formal application, Mr Labi-Lawal was quoted as saying in the EFCC statement.

But, Mr Oyedepo argued, All we want is the protection of these witnesses, and I believe justice is what we are supposed to be seeking.

After listening to the lawyers arguments, the judge ordered an accelerated hearing.

He, however, ordered that a formal application for a closed-door session of proceedings be filed.

Subsequently, Mr Oshodi adjourned the trial until 29 April.

Earlier on Friday, Mr Oyedepo informed the court that a witness of the prosecution was in court and we are ready to proceed in open court.

The defence, however, argued that it was not prepared for commencement of trial.

Mr Labi-Lawal further argued that he was yet to have access to his client to go through the proof of evidence and the allegations, as Mr Emefiele had been in the custody of the EFCC.

But, the judge held that the court had on 8 April adjourned the suit for trial, and so request by the defence counsel is refused, paving the way for Fridays hearing.

Interim bail

Messrs Emefiele and Omoile were granted bail in the sum of N50 million each.

But Mr Emefieles defence lawyer urged the judge to grant an interim bail to him pending when he would be able to meet the bail conditions.

Granting the prayer of the defence for interim bail, Mr Oshodi ordered that the defence counsel should file an undertaking to produce Mr Emefiele on the next date.

The first defendant will be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the undertaking by the defence counsel, which I must see, Mr Oshodi said.

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A lecturer at the Abia State University, Uturu, has finally married a female student he proposed to in a classroom during the last Valentines Day.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the lecturer stunned many students on 14 February when he proposed to his fiancee, identified as Novella Grace, in her classroom.

The lecturer, Wisdom Anucha, could be seen kneeling with a ring in his hand while proposing to his heartthrob in photographs circulating on Facebook.

Some students watched in apparent excitement while others were busy recording as the lecturer proposed to the lady, who is said to be a student of optometry in the institution.

Mr Anucha, this newspaper learnt, lectures in the Department of Sociology in the institution.

Some Nigerians criticised the lecturer for proposing to the students in the classroom.

However, the management of the university and the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities at the institution, in their separate reactions, argued that the lecturer did not violate any university law or ethical principle by his action.

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The wedding

The new couple held their church wedding on 6 April at Saint Pauls Anglican Church in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia State. They proceeded immediately to Ngwa High School, Aba, for their wedding reception.

Mr Anucha uploaded a wedding photograph of himself and his new wife in a warm embrace on his Facebook page on Wednesday.

And it came to pass, he wrote of the wedding on the social media platform.

Indeed, it is not good for him to be alone, the lecturer added, apparently referring to the Biblical account of Gods words when he created the first woman, Even as a companion for Adam, the first man.

The new couple had their traditional marriage a week earlier.

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Vice President Kashim Shettima says the late former Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onus impact on Nigerias political landscape is immeasurable.

Mr Shettima, in a statement on Friday in Abuja, described Mr Onu as a true statesman and accomplished Nigerian leader.

It is with profound sadness that I write to express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, a true statesman and accomplished Nigerian leader.

As the first civilian governor of Abia State, he laid a strong foundation for good governance and democratic principles. His legacies in Abia State will forever be remembered.

As the Minister of Science and Technology, his dedication to nation-building was evident in his focus on fostering scientific advancements and technological innovation in our great nation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Shettima said beyond his political achievements, the late Onu was a man of integrity, wisdom, and unwavering principles.

He was a true patriot who dedicated his life to the progress and development of our great nation. His contributions to Nigerias development will be forever remembered by the nation.

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I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time. May the memories of Dr Onus remarkable life and the impact he had on countless lives serve as a source of comfort and strength.

As we join you in mourning the loss of this great Nigerian, be rest assured that his legacies will continue to inspire generations of leaders to come.

 May the Almighty accept and grant his soul rest, and may He grant you and all his friends the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

NAN reports that Mr Onu graduated with a First Class Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos State in 1976 before obtaining his doctorate in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley four years later.

He would later serve as a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, where he rose to become the pioneer Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering of the institution and later, acting dean of the engineering faculty.

The 72-year-old began his political career when he unsuccessfully sought a senatorial ticket of the now-defunct National Party of Nigeria in the old Imo State.

He later contested and was elected the first civilian governor of the then-newly created Abia in 1991 under the platform of the National Republic Convention.

He was sworn in January 1992.

The former governor became the presidential candidate of the All Peoples Party (APP) in 1999, but gave up his position to Olu Falae after the defunct APP merged with another party, Alliance for Democracy.

In 2015, Onu was appointed as minister of science and technology by the Nigerian president at the time, Buhari.

By 2019, he became the longest-serving minister in the ministry with his reappointment in 2019 by Buhari.

(NAN)

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Two students recently kidnapped at the Federal University Wukari (FUW) in Taraba State, Joshua Sardauna and Obianu Elizabeth, have regained their freedom.

The Head of Information and Protocol of the university, Ashu Agbu, confirmed their release to our correspondent over the telephone on Friday.

Mrs Agbu said the students regained freedom Thursday night after the payment of an undisclosed amount of money to their captors.

Mr Sardauna, a student of Economics, and Miss Obianu of the Microbiology department were earlier this month abducted by unknown gunmen from an eatery on the institutions premises.

The kidnappers eventually contacted the university authorities and demanded N50 million as ransom for their release. The ransom was later renegotiated down to N12 million.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt from sources in the school that N700,000 was paid after a series of negotiations to secure their release.

The kidnappers were said to have abducted the students after missing their target  the owner of the eatery.

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Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, on Friday, inaugurated 12 newly-appointed commissioners.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the State House of Assembly had recently confirmed the appointment of the 12 commissioners.

The newly-inaugurated commissioners include Segun Ayerin, Olaolu Akindolire, Amidu Takuro, Banji Ajaka, Boye Ologbese, Sunday Akinwalire, Lola Fagbemi and Saka Yusuf Ogunleye.

Others are Rasheed Badmus, Olayato Aribo, Adewale Akinlosotu and Gbenga Olaniyi.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, during the inauguration ceremony in Akure, the state capital, urged them to justify their appointments through dedicated service, emphasising the administrations commitment to accelerated development and good governance.

The governor also urged them to contribute significantly to the states development agenda.

Let me congratulate the appointees for being worthy of consideration as Honourable Commissioners in Ondo State.

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Some of you are returning, while others are new commissioners. In the main, you have a duty to justify your appointment or reappointment as the case may be.

I must inform you that this administration is in a hurry to deliver on its mandate and make life more meaningful to the people.

The torch of accelerated development that we hold in trust for the people is irreversible.

You must guard your loins and hit the ground running in your various offices. You must foster a good working relationship with the workers, especially the permanent decretaries and other accounting officers, he said.

Mr Aiyedatiwa said they should all bear in mind that the government and people of the state were united in their thirst for credible performance, development and good governance.

You must eschew corruption or any act that is not nurturing to good governance and overriding public interest.

I like to implore all friends, families and well-wishers of the new appointees to refrain from putting undue pressures on them so that they can concentrate and discharge their duties in the overall best interest of the state, he said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi, emphasised the importance of wholehearted commitment from the newly- inaugurated commissioners.

Mr Oluwatuyi stressed that their forthcoming responsibilities transcend mere formalities, symbolising principles of justice and equity.

Speaking on behalf of the newly- inaugurated commissioners, Banji Ajaka, appreciated Aiyedatiwa for the trust reposed in them, with a promise not to disappoint and support the government of Ondo State.

(NAN)

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has thrown subtle jabs at his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, over what he termed as the I projects executed by Mr Wike.

Mr Wike, now the FCT minister, while serving as governor of the oil-rich Rivers State, had built a cancer hospital and named it after one of his predecessors, Peter Odili, whom he had fondly referred to as his political father.

His administration had also built a judicial institute and named it after Mr Odilis wife, Mary, a retired Supreme Court judge.

But after falling out with the Odilis over what a former commissioner for water resources in the state, David Brigss attributed to Mr Odilis refusal to support the plot to remove Governor Fubara from office by pro-Wike lawmakers, Mr Wike a few weeks ago, addressed supporters in Port Harcourt and made unfriendly remarks about the Odilis.

I built the cancer centre (hospital) in record time by the best construction company, Julius Berger, and I named it after one man, Mr Wike said, apparently referring to Mr Odili.

I built the judiciary institute and I named it after one woman, Mr Wike said, referring to Mr Odilis wife, Mary, a remark that has triggered outrage among Rivers State residents.

Speaking on Thursday in Ndoni, the country home of Mr Odili, during the commissioning of a 20-bed primary healthcare facility built and donated by Mr Odili through his PAMO Educational Foundation, Governor Fubara threw several subtle jabs at Mr Wike.

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The event was live streamed on Facebook.

The governor made his remarks shortly after Mr Odilis speech, who at the ceremony declared the governor as the political leader of the state having secured electoral victories through the ballots and the courts.

While commending the donor, the governor said he was surprised that Mr Odili did not tag the project as I despite being so.

Let me thank this wonderful family. Our leader (Mr Odili). It is the best because you are doing it when youre not in office. The ones Im doing now are public funds. But the one that we are commissioning today is an I. Im even surprised that you didnt use the word I, so I dash you the word, take am  I.

Youve dug pit for yourselves, Fubara told Rivers LG chairpersons

Speaking further, Mr Fubara expressed surprise that the chairperson of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area was present at the occasion, saying all the council chairpersons in the state had been boycotting state functions.

The 23 council chairpersons were elected during the tenure of Mr Wike as governor, and majority of them are in solidarity with the FCT minister whose relationship with Governor Fubara turned sour, a few months after Mr Fubara became governor.

I will not end without saying this. Im surprised that I saw the chairperson of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.

Because I know for a very long time now any events that have to do with the state government, all the local government chairmen as it were dont participate.

I hope when he leaves here they are not going to sack him. Let me say it here, everyone of you who thinks you are disrespecting me. Youve already dug your pit. For those of you who have chosen a contrary path of political salvation, safe journey.

Well flow in a direction that well get to our destination to make our people proud.

They say were clueless. If providing quality education and healthcare services is being clueless, then we agree, but we will not do roads to our farms. Well not do roads to please somebody. Its not about the roads and the flyovers but the people, the governor said.

Recounting how people in his community, Opobo, were travelling to Ikot Abasi in Akwa Ibom State for medical treatment because the hospital in the areas was not functioning, Governor Fubara threw more jabs at Mr Wike, who had been displaying various dance styles while commissioning projects in the state as then-governor.

Let me share this story with you. When I was about to be (governorship candidate), when they say they gave me the ticket  in my place, the General Hospital, Opobo was abandoned. (People) on social media were always attacking me  You want to be governor but you dont have healthcare service in your place. They took kids to Ikot Abasi (Akwa Ibom State) for treatment. Is it not shameful?

Do you know what I did? I had to personally, with the help of friends, put that hospital in place. It was with the help of friends that we put that hospital (in place) to start functioning.

There is a royal father here. I dont want to mention his name. He lost his son because there werent any functional healthcare services in his place.

So people dont know the importance of healthcare services. It is not an issue to go and build something and call the people to come and commission, you dance but it is not working, Mr Fubara said.

He thanked Mr Odili for donating the hospital and urged the people of the community to protect it.

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Troops of the Nigerian army have uncovered an armoury housing a cache of arms and ammunition at the residence of a suspected gun runner in Delta State, South-south Nigeria.

The army, in a statement which was posted on its Facebook page on Thursday, said its troops recovered arms and ammunition from the armoury in Olota and other locations in neighbouring communities in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.

It said troops had raided the secret armoury in response to a tip-off. The armoury, according to the Nigerian Army, was concealed in the residence of the suspected gun runner identified simply as Mr Kenneth.

The army said one G3 rifle, 853 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, and 19 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered from the armoury.

The operation further extended to other adjoining locations within the community, resulting in the discovery of four G3 rifles and magazines, one pump action semi-automatic gun, three sub-machine guns (SMG) and magazines, as well as 476 live cartridges, the army said in the statement.

It added that three suspects were arrested during the operation, but did not reveal their identities.

The army expmained that the operation was part of the ongoing efforts to eradicate illegal weapons in the South- south region.

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Additionally, the troops recovered five locally fabricated guns, a large plastic bag containing substance suspected to be cannabis sativa, and two speed boats with 75 horsepower outboard engines, the army statement said.

It also said the Nigerian army remains resolute in sanitising and mopping up illicit munitions in possession of criminals in the region as part of its efforts to ensure peace and security for residents of the region.

The latest development came days after the Nigerian military announced an operation in Delta State to recover arms and ammunition carted away from 17 soldiers who were murdered in the state last month.

This newspaper earlier reported that suspected residents of the Okuama community had, on 14 March, ambushed and murdered the Commanding Officer of 181 Army Amphibious Battalion, two majors, one captain and 13 soldiers.

The troops were ambushed and killed while responding to a distress call arising from a clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities in the South-southern state.

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The Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja on Friday granted bail to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, in the sum of N50 million.

The court had on Monday remanded Mr Emefiele in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) pending the ruling on his bail application.

His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, was remanded in Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

The court issued the remand order after the defendants were arraigned on 26 counts, including abuse of office and fraud involving about $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion.

Only three of the counts concern Mr Omoile.

They both pleaded not guilty to the charges on Monday.

In his ruling on Friday, the judge, Rahman Oshodi, granted bail to Mr Emefiele to bail with two sureties in like sum.

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MR Oshodi held that the sureties must be gainfully employed and have three years tax payment with the Lagos State Government.

He also ordered that the sureties must show proper identification and they must be registered in the Lagos State Bail Management System.

The judge also said that he was satisfied with the bail conditions of N1 million, earlier given to Mr Emefieles co-defendant, Henry Isioma-Omoil who is standing trial before another Lagos State High Court judge in Yaba,Olufunke Sule-Hamzat.

Mr Oshodi, however, said that the bail documents must be transferred to special offences court and it must also be registered in the Lagos State Bail Management System.

The EFCC had on 8 April arraigned Mr Emefiele on 23 counts of abuse of office, accepting gratifications, corrupt demand, receiving property fraudulently obtained and conferring corrupt advantage, and his co-defendant on three counts of acceptance of gift by agents.

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Mr Emefiele is standing a separate trial at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja over his alleged corrupt activities as CBN governor.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that at the time of filing this story, the counsel were making applications for accelerated hearing and trial.

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The Governors of Abia and Imo states as well as other prominent Nigerians have continued to pay glowing tributes to the late former Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu.

Family sources confirmed the death of the elder statesman in an Abuja hospital on Thursday at the age of 72.

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State expressed shock and sadness over the death of the states first executive governor.

In a statement issued in Umuahia, the state capital, by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Mr Otti described Mr Onus death as a huge loss to Abia, Ebonyi, the South-east states and the nation at large.

He also described the deceased as a true statesman with the character, carriage and disposition required to reposition the nation for the better.

Dr Ogbonnaya was a gentleman and statesman with rich experience and wealth of knowledge, and was very outstanding in his character, comportment and engagements.

Even though he held public offices both as a governor and minister, respectively, at difficult times, he was never associated with conduct or controversies capable of diminishing his reputation and personality, the statement added.

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Mr Otti pledged that the Abia State Government would honour and immortalise him by upholding the true ideals of democracy, which he stood for.

In a similar reaction, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State expressed shock over Mr Onus demise and described the incident as devastating and unexpected.

Mr Uzodimmas reaction is contained in a statement issued in Owerri, the Imo State capital, by his Chief Press Secretary, Oguwike Nwachuku.

The statement read in part: My principal received with shock the sad, devastating and unexpected news of the passing of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, a man he loves to describe as one of Nigerias intellectual and political giants with extraordinary gentility.

With Onus death, the South-east, Nigeria and the global community have lost a statesman, who believed so much in the unity, peace, progress and development of Nigeria, it added.

The statement further described Mr Onu as a leading light in the All Progressives Congress (APC) family having, for many years.

Others pay tributes

Also reacting, the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide described the septuagenarian as one of the most principled Nigerians.

The National Publicity Secretary of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Alex Ogbonnia, stated this in a statement issued to newsmen in Enugu.

Mr Ogbonnia stated that Onu was a rare Nigerian, who chose to remain in the opposition throughout the 16 years of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide received with a rude shock the news of the passing on of yet another Igbo Titan; a pathfinder, visionary, erudite scholar and astute politician, Onu at 72.

The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, was heart-broken on hearing the sad news, the statement added.

Mr Ogbonnia also stated that Mr Iwuanyanwu lamented the death of high profile Igbo leaders in close sequence, citing the death of his predecessor, George Obiozor, a professor; Joe Irukwu, another professor; U. K. Kalu; Ben Nwabueze, a professor of law; Sylvanus Ebigwei; Chike Edozien, a professor, and Herbert Wigwe.

Also, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife and today, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu; most of who were members of the Presidential Advisory Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mr Ogbonnia also stated.

The APC Publicity Secretary in Abia State, Offor Okorie, also said in a statement that the party expressed sadness over Mr Onus death.

Mr Okorie described the deceased as a true statesman, whose death had plunged the party into a state of sober reflection.

He stated: Abia APC is in a sober reflection and we are pained over the death of the first civilian Governor of the state.

We have lost a great hero in Nigerian politics, but we cannot question God because He gives and He takes.

Others, who also paid tributes to the late elder statesman, included the traditional ruler of Oriendu Autonomous Community in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia, Eze Philip Ajomiwe, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in 2023 in Abia State, Sunday Onuoha.

The royal father and cleric expressed deep regrets over the death of the man they described as a decent, detribalised and principled politician and called on other politicians in the country to emulate his virtues.

In their respective reactions, all the mourners expressed their condolences to Mr Onus family members as well as the government and people of Ebonyi State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Onu was governor of the old Abia State between January 1992 and November 1993. He became the governor on the platform of the defunct National Republic Convention (NRC).

He later became the presidential candidate of the All Peoples Party in 1999 but gave up his position to Olu Falae after the defunct APP merged with another party, Alliance for Democracy.

He also ran for the APC presidential ticket in the 2022 which he lost to President Bola Tinubu.

(NAN)

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The Kano State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged beheading of a minor, Mohammed Saidu, by an Almajiri at Kanwa village, Madobi Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner of Police in the state Usaini Gumel, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kano, the state capital, on Friday, said six-year-old Saidu was allegedly killed by the 16 year-old Almajiri simply identified as Abdullahi.

Mr Gumel said Abdullahi who hails from Zamfara State, was sighted at Kanwa village by a good Samaritan while in possession of a blood-stained knife. The statin was suspected to be human blood.

The police chief said the headless body of Saidu was found in a nearby primary school after extensive searches.

He said the suspect was then taken to the house of the village head to prevent him from being lynched.

However, the angry mob overwhelmed the village head, descended on the suspect and inflicted serious injuries on him, the commissioner said.

He said when the police arrived, the suspect confessed to the crime, saying he dumped the head of the victim in a pit toilet adjacent to the primary school.

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He said the suspect was taken to the Kwankwaso Cottage Hospital but died while receiving treatment.

The remains of the victim were recovered and moved to the hospital for examination and was later released to his relatives for burial, Mr Gumel further told NAN.

(NAN)

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The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, says the 700 km Lagos-Calabar coastal road will be constructed at N15 trillion.

He said a kilometre of the road would cost N4 billion.

Mr Umahi stated this at different media interviews on Thursday in response to the controversy trailing the award of the road contract.

Atikus questions and other controversies

Atiku Abubakar, the candidate of the PDP in the 2023 presidential election, recently raised several questions regarding the contract award.

The former vice president, in a series of statements, specifically raised concerns about the cost of the project, the lack of competitive bidding and opacity in the funding structure of the project.

In one of the statements, Atiku said Hitech, a company owned by Gilbert Chagoury, an associate of President Bola Tinubu, was awarded the project without competitive bids.

He added that the government lied that the project would be a Public Private Partnership (PPP), with Hitech providing all the funds.

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Atiku also estimated that the project, excluding the designed train tracks in the middle, would cost N8 billion per kilometre.

Also, there is controversy over the potential demolition of some structures along the right of way. The most notable of such potential demolition is the Landmark Resort.

The Presidencys earlier response

The Presidency, through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, replied Atiku, accusing the former vice president of desperation to hug the headlines as a self-appointed opposition leader.

The contract that was awarded was that of Lagos-Calabar Coastal rail. The rail was designed as part of the standard gauge national rail network. The contract was awarded on August 4, 2021, by the Federal Executive Council presided over by former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at $11.17billion. The contract was to be completed in six years. The project didnt take off.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal rail project has always been on the card. It was another testament to the failure of the previous PDP-led government that it could not get it off the ground in the 16 years it held sway.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway and Lagos-Calabar Coastal rail are two distinct projects. Unfortunately, the former Vice President is confused about the two projects.

President Tinubu should be praised for having the courage to embark on this transformative project and not vilified as Atiku Abubakar unsuccessfully sought to do.

We know there is nothing so sacred for Atiku Abubakar in pursuing his undying ambition to be President of Nigeria even in his advanced age, Mr Onanuga said.

Atiku does not understand the figuresUmahi

Speaking in a series of interviews granted to Channels TV, Arise TV and Television Continental, Mr Umahi also faulted Atikus position on the project.

During his appearance on Television Continental (TVC) News Hour programme, Mr Umahi said the former Vice President used the design done by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to arrive at the estimate.

He said the Tinubu administration is using a new design for the project.

He explained that the NDDC plan is a four-lane highway without a design for a train station; however, the current design is a 10-lane highway.

Mr Umahi refused to give a definite project cost but gave an estimated figure of N15 trillion to be completed within eight years.

People are building castles without knowledge, and they dont know figures; I will run the figures for you. We will compare the cross-section of the one the former vice president mentioned that was renegotiated for $11.1bn for 700 km.

So you have to ask now what was there to be constructed. And what was there to be constructed is the only available design from NDDC. They had designed the entire 700 km, but we are not following precisely that pattern or right of way. We have a different modification. The original design had two carriageways on each side of the road with four lanes.

And in the middle, they did not provide for the train track. Its just going to be a water-collecting basin. But the coastal road we are constructing has a total of 10 lanes, you know, not only that it has a total of 10 lanes, it also has what we called shoulders.

And the total shoulders can be put at about 23 metres. So when you put the total concrete pavement we are doing, its about 59 metres. When you put the total flexible pavement that he quoted, its about 23 metres. he said.

Mr Umahi added: You will find out that our cost is N4bn instead of the N8billion claimed by the former vice president.

On the funding structure, Mr Umahi said the project is not a PPP but rather an Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC+) structure, which means that the federal government must produce counterpart funding.

He stated that the negotiations are ongoing regarding FGs counterpart funding, which he projected would be between 15 and 30 per cent.

Project, highway to fraud, Atiku responds

Meanwhile, Atiku, in a swift response to Mr Umahis interview on Thursday, described as wasteful and a highway to fraud the claim by the works minister.

He also criticised the minister for altering the projects initial plan after Gilbert Chagourys Hitech had been awarded the contract without any competitive bidding.

Umahi had announced that Hitech would fully fund the project, and based on this, there was no competitive bidding. He (Umahi) then said that Hitech could only raise just 6% of the money for the pilot phase. This smacks of deceit, the former VP said.

Atiku also said by Mr Umahis revelation of the tentative cost of the project was the equivalent of the total budget of all 36 states of the federation combined.

He said, The total budget of all 36 federation states for 2024 stands at about N14 trillion. If you add that of the FCT, the entire budget of all sub-nationals is N15.91 trillion. This is scandalous. Worse still, they have already awarded the contract but are still not sure of the level of the counterpart funding component of the federal government!

Umahi had said in September 2023 that Gilbert Chagourys Hitech had the money to construct the highway and would be PPP. Hitech was to build, operate, and transfer it back to the Nigerian government after years of tolling.

It was reported by every media organisation, including those owned by Tinubu. It was based on this proposal that Hitech was picked. Why did Umahi then turn around to claim that it was not to be a PPP but that the government would pay 15%-30%?

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The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Florence Obi, a professor, will on 18 April deliver this years edition of an annual lecture organised by the Centre for Financial Journalism.

The event, which is tagged: The Bullion Lecture, is themed: Human Capital Development as Catalyst for Nigerias Prosperity.

The lecture is scheduled to be chaired by the President/Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Ademola Tayo, also a professor.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Financial Journalism, Ray Echebiri, said Ms Obis paper will be discussed by the Head of Human Capital Management at Oando Energy Resources Limited, Kanyinsola Mba, and the Founder/Chief Executive of New Horizons Nigeria Tim Akano.

Mr Echebirin said the recommendations will be forwarded to the government to drive human capital development in the country.

We are excited to have Professor Obi, a human capital development expert, deliver the 8th in The Bullion Lecture series on an issue central to our countrys prosperity.

Expected guests at the lecture include government officials, captains of industry, banking and finance executives, maritime executives, legal practitioners, ICT professionals, oil and gas industry executives, members of the academic community, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of multilateral institutions, media practitioners, and members of the public, the statement added.

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About lecturer

Ms Obi is the first female vice-chancellor of UNICAL. She is an academic with over three decades of experience. She has been a professor for 15 years and has over 60 publications to her credit in both local and international peer-reviewed journals of high repute.

Ms Obi, a former commissioner for women affairs and social development in Cross River State, obtained her Bachelors and Masters degrees in special education at the University of Calabar. She also got her doctorate in Psychology of Education at the university in 2002.

Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed 19 April for hearing of a suit filed by the sacked Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, against the state house of assembly and others.

The judge, Inyang Ekwo, on Friday, fixed the case for hearing after a team of lawyers, including Alex Ejesieme, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), showed up to seek a date for the matter.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) observed that though the suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/405/24, was not listed on the cause list, the lawyers, who said they were for the defence, asked the judge for a date for the case.

Shortly before the judge rose, one of the lawyers told Mr Ekwo that the matter was scheduled to hold on Thursday but due to the public holiday, the court did not sit.

So, in obedience to court, we came today, he said.

But Mr Ekwo, who held that he could not preside over a matter that was not in the file, directed them to liaise with the court registrar for the next adjourned date.

The matter was then fixed for 19 April for hearing.

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The Edo State House of Assembly sacked Mr Shaibu on 8 April, following the recommendation of a seven-man panel of investigation indicting him for disclosure of government secrets.

NAN reports that Mr Shaibu had filed his suit on 27 March to stop the process of removal from office launched against him by the Edo State House of Assembly.

In the suit, he sued the Inspector-General of Police and the State Security Service (SSS) as 1st and 2nd respondents.

He also joined S.A. Omonua, a retired judgement chairperson of the seven-member panel of inquiry that recommended the removal of Mr Shaibu.

Also sued were the Chief Judge of Edo State, who set up the investigation panel.

The rest of the defendants are Theresa Akpoghome, a professor, President Aigbokhian; Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu and the Edo State House of Assembly.

Prayers

In the suit filed by Mr Shaibus lawyer, O.A. Gbadamosi, a SAN, the sacked Edo State deputy governor sought a declaration that the threat and failure of the panel of inquiry and the House of Assembly to give him a fair hearing in the impeachment proceedings commenced by the 8th respondent (the House of Assembly) is illegal, unconstitutional, and a gross violation of his fundamental right to fair hearing, pursuant to Section 36 of the constitution.

He sought a declaration that the failure of the 8th respondent (assembly) to serve the purported impeachment notice on him personally and on each member of the House of Assembly, in line with Section 188(2) of the 1999 Constitution is a violation of his right to fair hearing.

He also sought a declaration that the inclusion of the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th respondents as chairman and members of the seven-member investigation panel to investigate allegations contained in a purported impeachment notice to the applicant is tainted by a reasonable likelihood of bias and will result in a violation of the applicants fundamental right to fair hearing, guaranteed by virtue of Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

He sought an order directing the respondents not to take any further steps in violating his fundamental right to fair hearing, guaranteed by virtue of Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.

He also sought an order directing the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th respondents to recuse themselves from sitting as Chairman and members of the 7-Man Investigating Panel appointed by the 3rd respondent, on account of the likelihood of bias on their part against him, among other reliefs.

Grounds of argument

Giving seven grounds of argument, Mr Shaibu averred that before now, he had never been confronted with any of such notice or allegations of misconduct or abuse of office or any allegations at all, whether as deputy governor or acting governor.

He said he had not been served with any letter/notice as required by Section 188(2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended and no privilege had been accorded him by the assembly to provide answers to any purported allegations to warrant a process targeted at his removal from office as deputy governor.

The 3rd respondent via a letter dated 25 March 2024 was appointed by the 4th respondent as the chairman of a panel of seven persons to investigate the allegations contained in a purported impeachment notice, which is yet to be personally served on the applicant.

The 3rd respondent is a retired judicial officer and community leader from Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo Central Senatorial District, where there is strong clamour against the gubernatorial ambition of the applicant.

ALSO READ: Lagos PDP chair advises sacked Edo deputy governor Shaibu

The 3rd respondent appears to have been given the hatchet job of recommending the removal from office of the applicant, in order to weaken his political ambition of becoming governor of Edo State.

The 4th respondent being a protege of the 3rd respondent, appointed him as chairman of the Investigating Panel, when other persons he offered the same appointment rejected it, because it was a politically motivated job, he said, among other grounds.

NAN reports that Mr Shaibu was, on Monday, removed from office by the states House of assembly after the seven-man panel found him guilty of leaking governments secrets.

The retired Justice Omonuwa-led panel, which had its inaugural sitting on 3 April in Benin, ended its sitting on 5 April with Mr Shaibu or his counsel failing to show up.(NAN)

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS) chapter, on Friday, urged the federal government to reconstitute the governing councils of federal universities.

In a statement signed by Nuruddeen Al-Mustapha, a professor, and Shaibu Sadiku, chairman and secretary, respectively, the chapter appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider the appeal.

This step is crucial for universities to operate legally and smoothly, in accordance with the law.

It will also uphold the autonomy and independence of universities by following established procedures and safeguarding their integrity, the statement said.

The union also called on the Ministry of Education to investigate all violations of the law in recent actions taken by various universities in the absence of the councils.

It observed that the dissolution of all the Federal University Governing Councils in June 2023 by the National Universities Commission (NUC) undermined the established procedures and the autonomy of the institutions.

The ASUU-UDUS further noted the unauthorised advertising of vacancies for the offices of vice-chancellors and other principal officers in the federal universities.

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The action violates proper procedures and threatens the integrity and academic freedom of Nigerias public universities.

The university law clearly outlines the composition, roles, and dissolution procedures of University Governing Councils and prescribed the protocol in the event of Councils absence, particularly regarding the appointment of principal officers.

At no point does the law transfer the councils functions to the Minister or the Visitor; thus, these actions undermine the principles of transparency, equity, and merit-based selection of university principal officers, it said. (NAN)

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun State Command, says 10 persons died in 10 road crashes during the Eid-el-Fitri Special Patrol in the state.

Anthony Uga, Sector Commander of FRSC in Ogun, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Ota, that 41 other persons sustained varying degrees of injuries from the crashes.

Mr Uga said the 10 people that died comprised of eight males and two females while the 41 injured were 22 males,15 females and four male children.

The sector commander said they were able to stem cases of accidents to the minimum level through the special patrol operation which began on 8 April.

Most of the road crashes recorded during the Eld-el-Fitri Celebration were caused by excessive speed and tyre burst.

We are appealing to motorists to reduce their speed as most of the accidents could have been avoidable if the drivers used good tyres and adhere strictly to average speed limit, he said.

Mr Uga implored both commercial and private vehicles to install speed limit devices and refrain from using expired tyres to minimise road crashes to the barest level in the state.

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(NAN)

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Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has set up an action committee to combat sexual violence against women through the mobile courts.

This is contained in a statement by Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson for the governor, on Friday, in Osogbo, the state capital.

The statement said the setting up of the committee was in line with the decisions reached between the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the state government to combat sexual violence through mobile courts and other measures.

According to the statement, the governor, during a visit to the Minister of Women Affairs in Abuja, affirmed his commitment for immediate implementation of the resolution of the Nigerian Governors Forum for the establishment of mobile courts.

The statement said the court would be dedicated to addressing issues of sexual and gender-based violence, child abuse in the form of street begging and expedited trial of women and children held in correctional facilities.

It also said that the governor had also directed the states Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to prepare an executive order to free all unjustly incarcerated women in the state.

According to the governor, the Justice Ministry will compile a list of affected women across the state to be granted executive pardon in furtherance of protection of women rights.

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ALSO READ: Lagos opens shelter for survivors of sexual and gender based violence

To give effect to the resolutions reached with the Federal Ministry in line with the position of the Nigerian Governors Forum position, the governor has put up an action committee comprising of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon (Mrs) Ayobola Awolowo, the Commissioner for Federal Affairs, Hon (Mrs) Adenike Adeleke, the Attorney General to be represented by the governors Special Adviser on Legal Matters, Barrister Nurudeen Kareem Esq.

Others include the Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon Moshood Olagunju and President of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Abisola Ariwodola.

The committee is charged with putting to effect the communique of the joint meeting between the state Governor and the Federal Minister of Women Affairs, the statement read.

(NAN)

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When political gridlock dominates national headlines, it is heartening to see the recent bipartisan agreement in Erie County.

Think of it as a microcosm of what Washington could do. Democrats and Republicans in county government did their job without the destructive tendencies chronically on display in Congress. It is good to witness the currents of compromise and cooperation, even if they seemed as first to drag necessary work down a rabbit hole. Indeed, the Legislatures failure to approve a borrowing package last month marked the second time in 20 years that the bond resolution had failed. It also failed last year amid crumbling relations between the Republican minority caucus and the Democratic majority and the office of Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz.

The Republican minority used its leverage. Only four among 11 legislators, they knew the surplus was coming. To their credit, the minority members used their opportunity responsibly, unlike in Congress where the Republicans are frequently threatening to shut down the government  and sometimes do.

Still, Erie County residents had reason to believe the matter would work out.

A $40.9 million borrowing deal, ultimately approved by Republicans and Democrats in the County Legislature, demonstrates how Republicans in the minority can leverage political differences for the greater good.

The agreement benefits the public in several ways: It will improve infrastructure; enhance public amenities; and  as Poloncarz has done throughout his tenure  pursue a policy of fiscal responsibility.

Republicans approach was strategic rather than obstructionist. They advocated for a reduction in borrowing and use of the countys budget surplus. Poloncarz, to his credit, demonstrated a willingness to negotiate and accommodate differing viewpoints  just as youd hope in a democracy. A critical point was his decision to reduce the borrowing package by $15.2 million and pay for more projects with cash on hand.

Republicans also reached an understanding centering on the possibility that if the countys year-end surplus exceeds its projections by more than $2.5 million, the entirety of excess funds will roll over into the countys savings accounts, according to legislators. The surplus is currently projected to be $33.9 million.

Republicans legislators may be aspirational in their assertion that the change will save $7 million in borrowing expenses. Budget Director Mark Cornell was quoted in a News article saying that based on his analysis of past borrowing in recent years, the true savings is closer to $3 million.

But thats not nothing.

To be funded by the $40.9 million:

$24.5 million for reconstruction of New Road, Maryvale Drive, Pine Street and Borden Road.

$2.1 million for county parks and playground improvements.

$900,000 for Buffalo Convention Center upgrades.

$700,000 for public library improvements.

As County Comptroller Kevin Hardwick observed, while noting his office can finally advance cash to begin projects during the short construction season: Alls well that ends.

And it ends with no legislator handouts, or what is commonly called pork.

The community will benefit from a range of initiatives, from road reconstruction to park improvements. The process, frustrating as it may have been, demonstrated a commitment to addressing local needs and investing in the future of Erie County  and employing the tools of democracy wisely.
The United Nations (UN) humanitarians in Sudan on Friday issued a fresh alert about pervasive food insecurity and looming famine in the country.

After nearly a year of brutal civil war between rival militaries, food production has been hit and communities face acute shortage of other essential resources such as water and fuel.

More than eight million people are believed to have been uprooted from their homes with tens of thousands killed or wounded.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that every seventh child under five is acutely malnourished and 70 to 80 per cent of health centres are no longer functioning.

WHO spokesperson, Christian Lindmeier, said five million people were on the brink of famine in areas affected by conflict.

With the lean season expected to start soon and without unhindered access for aid, the situation will only worsen in the coming months, he added.

He said around 230,000 children, pregnant women and new mothers could die in the coming months due to hunger unless urgent lifesaving funding could be provided.

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New data from the UN Development Programme (UNDP) also highlighted the accelerating hunger crisis in Sudan on Friday, with famine expected this year.

Moderate or severe food insecurity already affects nearly six in 10 households, with West Kordofan, South Kordofan and Blue Nile states worst-hit.

UNDP urged immediate food aid assistance for the most vulnerable in Sudan where more than half of the rural households contacted for its research reported that farming work had been disrupted significantly in the states of Khartoum, Sennar and West Kordofan.

(NAN)

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for the immediate release of the kidnapped Channels Tv reporter, Joshua Rogers.

Chris Iziguzo, NUJ President, made the call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Rogers was abducted from his residence in Rumuosi, Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, on Thursday night.

He was seized by gunmen around 9:00 p.m. as he returned from an official assignment at the Government House.

The criminals intercepted him and forcefully took him away in a Channels Television-branded vehicle.

Following the abduction, the abductors contacted his wife, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.

The NUJ is deeply concerned about the escalating insecurity faced by journalists and media practitioners in the country.

It is distressing that individuals involved in the vital work of informing the public have become targets of criminal activities.

The NUJ hereby appeals to the Government of Rivers State and relevant security agencies to prioritise efforts towards securing the safe and immediate release of Rogers, he said.

The NUJ president emphasised the need to ensure journalists well-being and safety during this critical time.

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Mr Isiguzo underscored the gravity of the situation and stressed the need for concerted action to address the rising threats against journalists across Nigeria.

We urge for swift and effective measures to be taken to secure Rogers freedom and bring an end to this distressing ordeal.

The NUJ stands in solidarity with Rogers, his family, Channels TV and we demand immediate action to secure his safe return, Mr Isiguzo said.

(NAN)

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Healthcare providers are entitled to work in any health institution they choose, regardless of where they are trained. Putting up measures to prevent health workers from leaving their country to practice elsewhere infringes on their human rights. To encourage health workers to practice in Nigeria, the government should improve their welfare by making the work environment more attractive and conducive while compensating them appropriately for their service.

On 7 February, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) announced the revised guidelines and requirements for applicants requesting verification of certificate(s) to foreign nursing boards or councils. Among the eight itemised guidelines in the circular, eligible applicants must have at least two years of post-qualification experience from the date of issuance of a permanent practicing license. The new guidelines are a ploy to contain nurses within the country to prevent brain drain in the countrys health sector. The new regulations violate the human rights of health workers to work under just and favourable conditions anywhere of their choice.

The government should focus on improving the healthcare sector, rather than establishing guidelines that prevent nurses from pursuing greener pastures elsewhere. Health workers should be adequately remunerated for their services and provided with decent working environments. In addition, quackery should be tackled in the healthcare system by relevant health organisations to allow for more job opportunities for registered nurses and midwives.

According to the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), about 75,000 nurses and midwives have left the country in the last five years to seek greener pastures. NANNM admits that the primary factors responsible for the migration of its members are the lack of decent remuneration and a poor working environment. In Nigeria, nurses and midwives are underpaid for their care services. Despite the low wages, they are equally overworked in their service stations due to understaffing. The funds allocated to the health sector must be adequately utilised to ensure that health workers pay is increased. For better oversight and adequate utilisation of funds, there should be private-public partnerships.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment should ensure that health workers do not work beyond what their human capacity can handle. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has 20 nurses, midwives, and doctors per a 10,000 population. The ratio is below the WHOs recommendation that there should be 23 nurses, midwives, and doctors per 10,000 people. The ratio implies that most Nigerian hospitals are short-staffed, and a health worker can end up doing the work of at least two staff. To address this challenge, public and private hospital management boards must employ more health workers to offset the workload on the current health workers.

Furthermore, there is need to eradicate quackery in the nursing and midwifery profession. Quackery has a negative implication on the quality of the healthcare system and contributes to the lack of proper welfare witnessed by nurses nationwide. In most private hospitals in the country, the common practice is to train quacks as an alternative to employing registered nurses in order to maximise profit. The Nigeria Medical Association and NANNM must collaborate with law enforcement agencies to curb quackery in hospitals. To enforce the fight against quackery in hospitals, especially private hospitals, quack health workers must be charged to court by NANNM and sentenced to prison. Stiffer penalties, like ten years imprisonment, must be implemented, contrary to the 2,000 fine or two years imprisonment stipulated in Section 21 of the Nursing and Midwifery Act. Similarly, the operational license of hospitals found culpable should be withdrawn by the ministry of health. With quacks out of the countrys healthcare system, more employment opportunities for registered nurses and midwives will be available.

Healthcare providers are entitled to work in any health institution they choose, regardless of where they are trained. Putting up measures to prevent health workers from leaving their country to practice elsewhere infringes on their human rights. To encourage health workers to practice in Nigeria, the government should improve their welfare by making the work environment more attractive and conducive while compensating them appropriately for their service.

Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later

Immanuel Taiyewo Fawole is a writing fellow at African Liberty.

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This demand for democracy is often strengthened by the fact that it tends to be accompanied by strong media and civil society movements, whose vocations are to protect democracy through investigation, information transparency and advocacy, which all contribute to resilience. Democracys resilience as a consequence of a strong civil society and democracies with a strong civil society, are more likely to be durable over time.

PREMIUM TIMES carried a report yesterday posing the question of whether people are losing hope in democracy. It outlines the findings of an International IDEA survey, which shows that voters in 19 countries, including in three of the worlds largest democracies and three African countries, believe that their political choices dont matter and so they prefer strong, undemocratic leaders. The report concludes that: democratic institutions are falling short of peoples expectations. This is indeed a time when deep introspection is ongoing about democracy, as many of its values and processes are being questioned around the world and analysts are pondering about its future.

Here in West Africa, the interrogation has taken the form of four of the fifteen countries in the region  Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea  opting out of the democratic framework, following coups detat. Threats and sanctions from the regional organisation, ECOWAS, have failed to bring them back. Today, it is ECOWAS that is withdrawing its sanctions and cajoling them to return to the body, without success so far.

The normative system of ECOWAS is built on the Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance (signed on 21 December, 2001), which sets out the constitutional convergence criteria to be fulfilled by community members based on the principles of good governance  respect for the rule of law, separation of powers, independence of the judiciary, promotion of a non-partisan and responsible press, and democratic control of the armed forces. It also commits Member States to ensure poverty alleviation; uphold, defend and promote international norms regarding basic human rights, including the rights of minorities, children, youths and women. Without doubt, the said crisis of democracy is a statement about the lack of sufficient positive results on these objectives. The Supplementary Protocol also upholds the principle of zero tolerance for the unconstitutional accession to or maintenance of power, which is today facing a huge challenge.

Historically, ECOWAS protocols significantly facilitated the transition of West African states from military or single party regimes to multiparty democracies in the post-1990 era. In this context, guarding democratic standards becomes widely accepted as a common task for ECOWAS. However, the standards of democratic practice began to wane in many of the countries in the zone. A number of incumbent presidents, in particular, started to interfere with democratic processes, repressing opposition political parties, engaging in electoral fraud, and changing the constitution for the purpose of their tenure elongation.

As these breaches of the constitutional order persisted and spread, many of the West African regimes gradually lost their legitimacy, leading to the return of coups detat in the region. In Niger, ECOWAS had to refuse to recognise President Tandja as a legitimate head of government at the end of his second term in 2009, when he failed to step down and simply announced that he had decided to stay for three more years in office, in spite of the refusal of the countrys Constitutional Court, which he simply disbanded. ECOWAS was unable to get him to step down, thereby opening the doors to military intervention to organise a transition back to the restoration of the democratic order.

My view is that the pursuit of democracy is a way to build resilience due to a number of factors. Democracy is in its essence a resilient system because it is a normative structure that people value for its positive content  political and human rights, civil liberties, civic participation, equality, rule of law and so on. For this reason, there are always demands for democracy and when countries move away from it, there is a struggle for its return.

Nonetheless, democracy has been the leitmotif for the development of ECOWAS and its normative system, since the 1981 Declaration of Political Principles. ECOWAS as a political system must therefore continue to improve its capacity to cope, survive and recover from complex challenges and crises that represent stresses or pressures that can lead to systemic failure. My view is that the pursuit of democracy is a way to build resilience due to a number of factors. Democracy is in its essence a resilient system because it is a normative structure that people value for its positive content  political and human rights, civil liberties, civic participation, equality, rule of law and so on. For this reason, there are always demands for democracy and when countries move away from it, there is a struggle for its return.

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This demand for democracy is often strengthened by the fact that it tends to be accompanied by strong media and civil society movements, whose vocations are to protect democracy through investigation, information transparency and advocacy, which all contribute to resilience. Democracys resilience as a consequence of a strong civil society and democracies with a strong civil society, are more likely to be durable over time. Encouraging the strengthening of the civil society is therefore the pathway to deepening the resilience of democracy. Generally, the argument is that a vigorous civil society helps to create an underlying trust and social cohesion that, in turn, allows for contestation and contention in a democracy and strengthens its overall resilience when democracy comes under pressure.

There is evidence that the resilience of democracy can be shown empirically. In their article in the Journal of Democracy of October 2023, Steven Levitsky and Lucan Way argue convincingly that democracy faces challenges in many countries but on the whole, it has proven surprisingly resilient in the twenty-first century:

The extraordinary global democratic expansion of the late twentieth century has ended, and several prominent democracies, including those in Hungary, India, the Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, and Venezuela, have experienced backsliding or breakdown. But the vast majority of third wave democracies  regimes that became democracies between 1975 and 2000  endure.

The result is that consolidating authoritarianism has become a more difficult task today than it was in the past. Populists can gain widespread public support initially but they have great difficulties sustaining it because they are unable to deliver the usually exaggerated promises they have made. Citizens have come to expect integrity, security and the delivery of public services from democracies, but they have the same expectations from the autocrats when they takeover. This is the basis for the resilience of democracies

It would be recalled that in Africa, the number of de jure single-party regimes fell from 29 in 1989 to zero in 1994. Since then, poor governance, corruption and the decline in the quality of elections created grounds for the return of the military. Military rule and authoritarianism however also find it hard to sustain themselves in the new world because citizens start asking questions and making demands. It is not therefore clear that democratic recession is ongoing or that there is a third wave of autocratization. As Freedom House argued in its 2022 annual report, data does not support such claims. In its report covering the year 2013, Freedom House listed ninety countries as Free. A decade later, that number was 84. According to V-Dem, the number of liberal and electoral democracies in the world declined from 96 in 2016 to 90 in 2022. The evidence is therefore for a slight not significant decline.

The slight decline however looks bigger than it is because of the coming into power of a number of illiberal or authoritarian leaders, whose style and voice appeared to exaggerate the phenomenon, such as Italys Giorgia Meloni (whose Brothers of Italy party has roots in Italian fascism) since 2022. Donald Trump in the United States and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil. Many of the elected autocrats who subverted democratic institutions in the twenty-first century lost power within a decade, very often resulting in a slide back to democracy. When autocracy comes, people remember the benefits they enjoyed under democracy and begin to crave for it as it were.

The result is that consolidating authoritarianism has become a more difficult task today than it was in the past. Populists can gain widespread public support initially but they have great difficulties sustaining it because they are unable to deliver the usually exaggerated promises they have made. Citizens have come to expect integrity, security and the delivery of public services from democracies, but they have the same expectations from the autocrats when they takeover. This is the basis for the resilience of democracies, as over time they have more to offer than authoritarian regimes. Democratic forces almost always have a good fighting chance over the others. It is interesting that in all the countries that had recent coups in West Africa, insecurity is growing, repression is growing, corruption has set in and public service delivery is facing a sharp decline.

The core weakness of ECOWAS is the erosion of its normative framework by some presidents who are at the same time its highest-level leadership  members of the Authority of Heads of State. When the issue of tenure elongation started putting strains on the ECOWAS normative framework, it decided to include in its Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance a provision disallowing tenure elongation beyond two terms. When it was moved for adoption in the 2015 Summit, the presidents of Togo and the Gambia opposed it. ECOWAS brought back the same proposal in the 2022 Summit and this time the presidents of three countries  Senegal, Cote dIvoire and Togo scuttled it. This means that the Commission is not always able to carry its leadership along because some of them have developed political objectives that directly contradict the normative framework they had developed for the organisation. We know where the problem is.

A professor of Political Science and development consultant/expert, Jibrin Ibrahim is a Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, and Chair of the Editorial Board of PREMIUM TIMES.

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Nigerians want to see the Honourable Minister more on the electricity provision facilities visiting for inspection, doing on-the-spot assessments, and speaking to Nigerians on the efforts being made to increase our megawatts from its present figure to its required figures. The Ministry of Power should not allow the organised labour sector to plunge our country into another needless round of strikes over the removal of electricity subsidy.

Every government the world over subsidises certain things for its citizenry. From America to Europe, it is either agricultural products or housing or other basic things of life. Therefore, this present administration in Nigeria must not make the mistake of thinking that every subsidy is an aberration. It is certainly not. There is nothing abnormal in the government still subsidising electricity, since it has removed the subsidy on petroleum products  a very contentious move that is still generating some bad blood amongst the generality of the people, despite its anticipated merits on the long run. The argument that the payment procedure for the subsidy claims is fraught with fraud is the most untenable reason for the removal.

All the government needs to do is sanitise the payment procedure and make it transparent. As such, the argument for the removal of electricity subsidy can not suffice. Just a while ago, Mr Yemi Cardoso, the Central Bank governor claimed publicly that he had to get a consulting firm, Delloite and Co., to help the Bank verify the backlog of forex claims before it. Though this is an indictment of the Central Bank department saddled with the responsibility, however the governor got the job done anyway because he needed results. Probably, this is what the Minister of Power ought to have done if there are seeming fraud related issues concerning electricity subsidy, rather than its total removal. It is not only ill-timed; it is insensitive too. Considering that the service is nearly non-existent. Almost everyone generates their own electricity in their own way. The success of alternate energy businesses in Nigeria lately, especially solar, is a confirmation of this. As such, public electricity is just a standby.

The most vital component of overcoming our energy challenges has never been given the needed attention it surely deserves. What is required is what lawyers will call a fiduciary relationship  coming out to Nigerians clean and transparently about all the challenges in the generation, transmission, and distribution sectors of electricity in the country. A total forensic audit of capacities and challenges and, of course, the attendant solution. The recent decision of granting states the right to generate, transmit, and distribute their own energy is commendable but may still take some good time to achieve. The successive past administrations at the federal level all share in the blame for the present position of our energy supply in Nigeria. The worst was the administration that unbundled the energy sector and sold off its assets to companies that had no experience whatsoever in power generation, transmission, and distribution, except that they belonged to friends of government. They were only interested in the choice assets of the companies they bought. This is why they have not added any value to the companies in terms of service delivery, except declaring a profitable balance sheets predicated on fraudulent billings.

Since 1999 in Nigeria, the song has been government has no business doing business, and immediately a government business doing well is sold off to a private investor, the business dies afterwards. This has been the fate of almost all the Federal Government business ventures sold to private investors. We deserve to know the exact megawatts produced by our generation companies, how much exactly do we need to power the country, what exactly are the challenges in the transmission sector, as we all know the challenges bedevilling the distribution sector. This is the most exploitative sector in the chain, which asks consumers to buy transformers and cables etc.

With current efforts at stabilising the naira after its floatation in the general market paying off, and the expected downward regularisation of petroleum products, which has necessitated the prediction of a downward review, by mid-year, of the prices of goods and services, the removal of electricity subsidy will truncate all these expectations. The consumers on Band A of power distribution, the supposed targets of the removal, are mostly goods and services companies, so it is only logical that an increase in production costs will be recouped through the retail costs of goods and services. This is a simple principle of economics. Therefore, the already battered common citizens will be the ultimate victims of the removal. And suffice to ask what exactly does the government wants to subsidise for the citizens?

There is no existing subsidy on agriculture products, none on petroleum products any longer, none on housing, none on transportation, and so on. The Ministry of Power has to rethink this decision. It should do more of the constant monitoring and evaluation of the energy value chain, especially with generation and distribution, in order to provide the needed services to consumers and then after a while of sector stability, it can begin to toy with the idea of electricity subsidy removal. In which case the service delivery would have improved, with citizens appreciating the improvements. Nigerians want to see the Honourable Minister more on the electricity provision facilities visiting for inspection, doing on-the-spot assessments, and speaking to Nigerians on the efforts being made to increase our megawatts from its present figure to its required figures. The Ministry of Power should not allow the organised labour sector to plunge our country into another needless round of strikes over the removal of electricity subsidy.

Fola Aiyegbusi writes from hefzibar2006@yahoo.com.

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Six relatives of Aper Aku, the Second Republic governor of Benue State, have called for justice following the destruction of their home by hoodlums in Gboko Local Government Area of the state.

The hoodlums on Monday razed a five-bedroom bungalow in Gboko where the relatives of the former governor lived.

Mr Aku, who was the first elected governor of Benue State (1979 to 1983), was detained after the military coup of December 1983 threw him and other elected officials of that dispensation out of office.

He died in 1988 shortly after he was released from incarceration. Mr Akus death was attributed to his manhandling by the Muhammadu Buhari-led military junta.

Mr Aku hailed from Ushongo Local Government Area of the state, but some of his relatives live in Gboko  90 kilometres from Makurdi, the state capital.

Arson, looting spree

A member of the family, Deborah Aku, told PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone interview on Thursday evening that she and five other members of the deceased governors family have been made homeless by the incident.

The police only rescued us with the clothes on our backs and mobile phones in our hands. The entire building was set ablaze; destroying personal belongings like food, clothes and educational certificates, Ms Aku said, narrating their ordeal.

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She said dozens of hoodlums raided their home on Monday morning after accusing the family of killing a stray goat.

Ms Aku, a law graduate, denied the allegation. But, the hoodlums allegedly led by one Aloho Tyav, stormed the Akus home wielding machetes.

The arsonists, largely youths, stormed our house with machetes. They tried to break into the house but they couldnt because of the bulletproof doors and window protectors. They later came back with fuel with which they set the house on fire.

A dog belonging to the Akus was killed during the attack.

As the attackers set the building alight, they allegedly looted 12 exotic pigs being reared at the familys piggery, Ms Aku said.

She said a pig is valued at N70,000.

She itemised other assets that were destroyed to include a Toyota Highlander SUV.

Appeal to Governor Alia

Governor Hyacinth Alia has since condemned the incident.

A media aide to Mr Alia, Solomon Iorpev, in a statement to journalists in Makurdi, said the governor had directed the chairperson of Gboko council area to probe the incident.

Similarly, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh, has visited the Akus destroyed home in Gboko.

Mr Dajoh asked the police to bring the arsonists to book.

Police spokesperson in Benue, Sewuese Anene, told Daily Trust that a traditional ruler had been arrested in connection with the crime.

As a result of the hardship occasioned by the incident, Ms Aku urged the Benue State government to ameliorate their plight.

READ ALSO: Benue buries 17 persons killed by herders as governor suggests solution

We appeal to Governor Alia to come to our aid by bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. Also, we are soliciting for support by way of compensation from the government. Now, we have nowhere to go; all our belongings have been destroyed by the attackers, she said.

The Commissioner for Humanitarian and Disaster Management, Kunde Aondowase, told this newspaper on Thursday that efforts were on to visit the survivors of the incident with a view to providing them with succour.

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The police in Anambra State, South-east Nigeria, have recovered three bodies of the victims of a boat mishap, which also claimed the life of popular Nollywood star, Junior Pope Odonwodo.

Boat accident, number of victims

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Mr Odonwodo and other members of a movie set drowned after their boat capsized in Anam River, Anambra State on Wednesday while returning from a shoot.

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) had earlier said 12 individuals were on the ill-fated boat.

NIWA added that of the 12 individuals, seven were successfully rescued, two were found dead, while three others  two females and one male  were declared missing.

Recovery of bodies

But the police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement which was forwarded to PREMIUM TIMES on Friday, said the police have now recovered the remaining bodies of the three missing Nollywood stars.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said the bodies were recovered by marine police operatives from Anambra State Police Command.

Two of the bodies were recovered yesterday, 11 April 2024 while the last was washed in by the tide this (Friday) morning.

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All the bodies have been deposited in a hospital mortuary in Asaba while the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (Emeka Rollas) has been notified of the recovery, he said.

The statement did not provide the identities of the deceased persons whose bodies were recovered.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Aderemi Adeoye, urged all water commuters to be safety conscious and behaviours that may jeopardise their safety and that of others while on transit on water, the police spokesperson said.

Mr Adeoye assured that the ongoing investigation into the boat accident which killed a total of five people, would be expedited.

The commissioner commended police operatives from the states Marine Unit for their dedication to duty.

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Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has been sentenced to six months in jail without the option of a fine.

Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos sentenced the controversial cross-dresser for Naira abuse, on Friday.

Mr Awogboro, in his ruling, said Bobriskys sentence would serve as a lesson for others from abusing the Naira.

He held that The act of mutilating the Naira notes has become a menace, which has continued to damage the countrys image.

Enough of people mutilating and tampering with our currencies. It has to stop. His will serve as a deterrent to others.

Before the judge sentenced Bobrisky, he inquired about the crossdressers gender, to which he responded that he was identified as a man.

Bobriskys jail term commenced on 24 March, the same day as his arrest.

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The crossdresser will serve his jail term at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

On 5 April, PREMIUM TIMES, reported that the Court postponed the sentence of Bobrisky to 9 April but it could not hold due to the Eid-el-Fitr holiday.

Justice Awogboro earlier convicted Bobrisky for Naira abuse following his guilty plea to a four-count charge filed against him by the EFCC.

Pending the sentence, the judge directed that Bobrisky be remanded in EFCC custody.

Counts

The charge against Bobrisky marked FHC/L/244c/2024 comprised four counts of naira abuse and two counts of suspected money laundering.

Two counts (counts five and six), which bordered on money laundering were struck out by the judge, leaving counts one to four.

In the first count, Bobrisky was alleged to have tampered with N400,000 by spraying the same while dancing at a social event at the IMAX Circle Mall, Lekki, Lagos on 24 March.

The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.

In count two, Bobrisky, between July and August 2023 at Aja Junction, Ikorodu, is said to have tampered with another sum of N50,000 by spraying the same at a social event while dancing.

In count three, Bobrisky, in December 2023 at White Steve Event Hall, Ikeja also sprayed and tampered with another sum of N20,000 while dancing.

Count four also accused Bobrisky of spraying and tampering with another sum of N20,000 while dancing at another event in Oniru, Victoria Island.

Witness

At the court, at exactly 11:55 a.m., Sulaiman Sulaiman represented EFCC, while Ayo Olumofin served as Bobriskys attorney.

The EFCC attorney, who examined the case details, called on Commission Assistant Superintendent Bolaji Temitope as a witness.

Mr Temitope explained the circumstances under which he became acquainted with Bobrisky.

He said: The EFCC received intelligence of individuals who are in the habit of spraying Naira during parties in Lagos. Based on this, the EFCC set out an operation team to monitor and observe the activities of individuals in the habit of doing so.

We usually visit event centres and monitor social media pages where the Naira is abused. During the exercise, we came across videos on social media where the defendant was seen abusing the Naira.

Our team then viewed the video and burnt the same on CD. Consequently, an invitation letter was forwarded to the defendant. When he honoured the invitation, the defendant was shown a video where he was spraying money on Segun Johnson. He confirmed that he was the one in the video.

An event at the Island Circle mall was also shown to the defendant. A total of 400k was spent. The defendant was also shown another video in Aja Junction, Ikorodu, and an event centre at Ikeja. He admitted to spraying money in all the videos. He then offered his statement in writing.

A video clip was shown to the witness, which confirmed together with the defendants statement.

The witnesss statement and the accompanying videos presented without challenge were accepted as exhibits. It was designated as Exhibit 1 and Exhibit 2.

Ignorance

The crossdresser told the Court that he was unaware that he was breaking the law, emphasising that he was merely a social media influencer.

However, Justice Awogboro reminded him (Bobrisky) that ignorance of the law is not an excuse, a notion he concurred with.

In his plea for mercy, Bobrisky said: I am a social media influencer, with five million followers; and in all honesty, I was not aware of the law. I wish I could be given a second chance to use my platform to educate my followers against the abuse of the Naira.

Also, his lawyer added: He will lead the crusade against the abuse of Naira. He is also an employer of people; and if he goes to jail, the people he employed will suffer. He has cooperated with the EFCC and has not wasted the time of the court. We urge the court to caution the defendant and allow him to go. He has given evidence that he will be useful to the country. We urge you to grant a non-custodial sentencing option of fine.

Background

On 4 April this newspaper reported that Bobrisky will appear before the court on a six-count charge brought against him by the EFCC for naira abuse and other offences.

The spokesperson of the anti-graft agency, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the crossdressers detention told this newspaper.

Mr Oyewale said Bobrisky was arrested for naira mutilation.

Bobriskys detention draws parallels to the case of actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, who was convicted for spraying and stepping on new Naira notes at a wedding in Lagos.

Ms Omoseyin was apprehended on 1 February 2023, following the viral circulation of a video clip showing her spraying new Naira notes at a wedding in Lekki, Lagos State, on 28 January 2023.

On 2 February, the trial judge, Chukwujekwu Aneke, sentenced Ms Omoseyin to six months imprisonment, with the option of a N300,000 fine.

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Kingmakers in Ibadan have appointed Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan land.

His appointment was made known after a meeting of the Olubadan-In-Council at Ojaba in Ibadan on Friday.

Mr Olakulehin, whose health status has been generating worries among the people, was present at the meeting.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the nomination process for the next Olubadan has been generating controversy due to the health status of Mr Olakulehin.

One of the kingmakers and a member of the Olubadan-In-Council, Tajudeen Ajibola, had earlier disagreed with other members of the council on the health status of the appointed king.

Mr Ajibola, the Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadan land, on Tuesday, said Mr Olakulehin is sick and unfit to rule and should be allowed to recuperate before taking over the Olubadan throne.

Mr Ajibola was absent at Fridays meeting convened by the Otun Olubadan of Ibadan land, Rashidi Ladoja.

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Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Mr Ladoja said the kingmakers concluded the appointment process of Mr Olakulehin as the next Olubadan.

Mr Ladoja stated it was now left for Governor Seyi Makinde to approve Mr Olakulehins nomination.

The letter will get to the governor as soon as possible. We hope he gives his consent. Theres no how the Governor will not accept because we did what is right. As soon as he approves, we will proceed with the coronation ceremony, Mr Ladoja said.

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A groundbreaking collaboration between Supply Chain Africa and Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) is set to revolutionise supply chain research and development in Africa.

A statement by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Supply Chain Africa, Adebayo Adeleke, on Friday, said that the N5 billion ($4.5 million) project will see the establishment of a world-class research and innovation centre within LAUTECH, the first of its kind in Nigeria and the second on the continent.

Explaining the motive for the collaboration, Mr Adeleke said it is to stimulate research, which plays a critical role in tackling complex supply chain challenges.

Multidisciplinary approach

He highlighted the centres unique, multidisciplinary approach, which integrates fields like engineering, robotics, and art.

LAUTECH is a premier research university in Nigeria. You cant really talk about state universities or research universities in Nigeria without talking about Ladoke Akintola University. So, it is important to align with success.

This is going to be the first supply chain research and innovation centre in Nigeria and second in Africa. More importantly, is the fact that I have done research within the space of the research chain in the continent and there is a need to have a facility that is quite focused on the supply chain life, he said.

Mr Adeleke noted that the proposed research centre had received enthusiastic support from LAUTECHs faculty and management, who recognised its potential to enhance research capabilities, attract international collaboration, and elevate the universitys academic standing.

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He added that the collaboration between Supply Chain Africa and LAUTECH reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and collaboration between industry and academia.

ALSO READ: Rivers traditional ruler appointed chancellor of LAUTECH

As construction commences, many are eagerly anticipating the centres profound impact on supply chain education, research, and industry practices throughout Africa.

The proposed centre will serve as a platform for research and solution development, drawing upon expertise from various fields to address pressing challenges, he noted.

Mr. Adeleke further stressed the importance of showcasing Africas capacity for research and problem-solving on a global scale.

Repositioning LAUTECH

LAUTECHs Acting Vice Chancellor, Rasaq Kalilu, on his part, said the management was trying to reposition the university for a positive impact globally.

As such, he expressed the belief that the supply chain management laboratory will afford the university to have staff and students exchange programmes with other organisations.

This will enrich the knowledge and ideas as well as technology of our students and staff to collaborate with their peers outside the shores of Nigeria. We will also be able to make an impact with activities of other researchers and students who will be collaborating with us, he noted.

The Head of the Department of Transport Management, Remi Aworemi, described the centre as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration, bridging gaps in research and providing opportunities for international exchange.

He said that the construction of the centre, led by SpaceCube Development Ltd, marks a significant milestone in advancing research and innovation in Africa.

The project reflects a collective commitment to solving complex supply chain challenges and building a brighter future for the continent, Mr Aworemi added.

The majority of stakeholders who have spoken about the project, the statement noted, expressed optimism about its potential to drive innovation, empower future generations, and position Africa as a leader in supply chain research and development.

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The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has inaugurated a seven-member governorship screening committee to screen aspirants ahead of the partys primary election in Ondo State slated for 25 April.

Nze Duru, the partys Deputy National Organising Secretary, inaugurated the committee on behalf of its NWC on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Duru tasked its members to undertake the exercise with necessary diligence, discipline and friendliness.

He said the committee had to work round the clock to complete the exercise within the projected time frame, adding that the Appeal Committee would commence work immediately after the screening of the aspirants.

For us at the secretariat, we will also help you to midwife most of the things that will be required, and then hand it over to the appeal committee.

The committee at this moment stands inaugurated. I wish you the very best of luck.

We will support you in any way you need assistance in the process, Mr Duru said.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the screening committee is headed by a former Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Joshua Lidani, while a former member of the House of Representatives, Bimbo Daramola, is its secretary.

Other members of the committee are: Jones Erue, Second Bakor, Magaret Duru, Chukwudi Ledirick, a professor, and Abdul Balogun.

Appeal committee

Also inaugurated was a five-member Appeal Committee, which has the senator representing Kogi Central, Oseni Yakubu, as chairman.

Other members of the appeal committee are: Emmanuel Ekeh, Pious Idele and Ibrahim Dosara.

The members of the two committees took their oaths of office.

Mr Duru, while addressing journalists after inaugurating the committees, said the screening of aspirants before every primary election was compulsory in line with the partys Constitution.

You are chosen to partake in the screening of the 16 aspirants who purchased the partys Nomination and Expression of Interest forms to contest its primaries in the Ondo State governorship election.

We believe you will conduct the exercise with due diligence, discipline and also fairness that the work demands.

Unfortunately, I dont envy you because it was meant to be a two-day exercise but an additional day was added to the Eid-el-Fitr holiday, so we had to compress the two days into one.

This means you will work round the clock to complete the exercise within the time-frame that we projected, the APC deputy national organising secretary said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had fixed the off-cycle Ondo State governorship election for 16 November.

Abdulkarim Kana, a professor and APCs National Legal Adviser, on 29 March, directed the 16 governorship aspirants to submit their credentials and other documents for vetting.

He said the vetting process entailed sighting of physical documents, credentials and others, adding that due diligence would be observed during the exercise.

Mr Kana said that the process was critical for a thorough report to the partys screening committee.

NAN recalls that the party sold its nomination form for N10 million while its expression of interest form was sold for N40 million for male governorship aspirants.

Female aspirants and persons with disabilities paid N10 million for the expression of interest forms while the nomination form was free for them.

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NEW YORK, April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global advanced baby monitor market size is estimated to grow by USD 480.9 mn from 2023 to 2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.75% during the forecast period. The advanced baby monitor market is witnessing significant growth due to e-commerce's rise. Brands invest in account management, supply chain, and product assortment enhancements. Interactive websites offer expert advice, product comparisons, and customer reviews. Vendors develop omnichannel retailing with holistic distribution channels. Key products include Wi-Fi, video, motion sensor, wearable, remote viewing, portable, connected, audio, baby camera, digital, smartphone, high-tech, smart nursery, infant safety, wireless, baby sleep tracker, real-time, video streaming, HD, temperature monitoring, wearable sensor, secure, baby surveillance, AI, sleep tracking, parenting assistance, multi-camera, voice-controlled, advanced monitoring solutions, baby safety alarms, video recording, Bluetooth, and nursery environment monitors.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Advanced Baby Monitor Market 2023-2027

To understand more about this market- Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes!

Innovation Sparks Market Growth:

The Advanced Baby Monitor Market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing focus on enhancing sales experience in the e-commerce sector. Brands are investing in strategies for account management and supply chain management, while also expanding product assortments. Smart Baby Monitors, Wi-Fi Baby Monitors, Video Baby Monitors, Motion Sensor Monitors, Wearable Baby Monitors, and Remote Viewing Monitors are some of the high-tech baby monitoring systems available. These monitors offer features like real-time baby monitoring, temperature monitoring, and sleep tracking. Connected Baby Monitors, Baby Camera Systems, Digital Baby Monitors, and Smartphone Baby Monitors enable parents to monitor their infants using their smartphones. High-tech baby monitors also include advanced monitoring solutions like Parental Control Monitors, Infant Breathing Monitors, and Cloud-Based Baby Monitors. Additionally, there are Long-Range Baby Monitors, Baby Safety Alarms, and Baby Surveillance Systems for enhanced security. AI Baby Monitors, Sleep Tracking Monitors, and Parenting Assistance Monitors are some of the latest innovations in this market. Overall, the Advanced Baby Monitor Market is witnessing a surge in demand for smart, connected, and advanced infant monitoring devices.

Addressing Challenges:

The Advanced Baby Monitor Market encompasses a range of Smart Nursery Devices, including Infant Safety Monitors, Wireless Baby Monitors, Baby Sleep Trackers, Baby Room Monitors, and Smartphone App Monitors. These advanced technologies offer features such as Baby Health Monitors, Long-Range Baby Monitors, Parental Control Monitors, Infant Breathing Monitors, Cloud-Based Baby Monitors, Baby Movement Monitors, Real-Time Baby Monitors, Video Streaming Monitors, HD Baby Monitors, Baby Sound Monitors, Temperature Monitoring Devices, Wearable Sensor Monitors, Secure Baby Monitors, Baby Surveillance Systems, AI Baby Monitors, Sleep Tracking Monitors, Parenting Assistance Monitors, Multi-Camera Baby Monitors, Voice-Controlled Baby Monitors, and Advanced Monitoring Solutions. Despite their benefits, the market growth is hindered by the high price and lack of awareness in developing countries. In 2017, only four to five advanced baby monitors were sold for every 100 babies born in APAC. The adoption is also affected by the perception of these devices as luxury products in regions like Eastern Europe, MEA, and APAC. Advanced Baby Monitor Market includes Baby Safety Alarms, Video Recording Monitors, Bluetooth Baby Monitors, Nursery Environment Monitors, High-Resolution Baby Monitors, Parenting Support Systems, Infant Activity Trackers, Touchscreen Baby Monitors, Real-Time Alerts Monitors, Smart Sleep Monitors, Baby Care Technology, Smart Breathing Monitors, AI-Powered Baby Monitors, Mobile Connectivity Monitors, and Advanced Infant Monitoring. Infrared Baby Monitors and Parental Monitoring Systems are also part of this market.

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Analyst Review

The Advanced Baby Monitor Market encompasses a range of innovative technologies designed to ensure the safety and well-being of infants. Smart Baby Monitors, a significant segment of this market, leverage Wi-Fi connectivity and motion sensor technology to provide real-time updates on infant activity. Video Baby Monitors offer visual insights into the baby's environment, while Infant Monitoring Devices provide essential health data such as heart rate and temperature. Wi-Fi Baby Monitors offer the convenience of remote access, enabling parents to check in on their little ones from anywhere. Overall, the Advanced Baby Monitor Market continues to evolve, offering increasingly sophisticated solutions to meet the unique needs of modern families.

Market Overview

The Advanced Baby Monitoring market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for innovative and technologically advanced baby care solutions. Systems such as Smart Baby Monitors, Infrared Baby Monitors, and Wi-Fi Baby Monitors are gaining popularity. These monitors offer features like temperature sensing, two-way audio communication, night vision, and real-time streaming. Devices like Breathing Monitors and Movement Sensors are also part of this market, providing parents with peace of mind and enhanced safety for their infants. The market is driven by factors like rising disposable income, increasing awareness about child health, and the convenience offered by these advanced systems. The market is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years.

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Key Companies:

Advanced Baby Monitor Market is fragmented ; the companies are competing with competitors and are trying to get greater market share. The market is growing, and the chances of new entrants cannot be overlooked. The major companies have well-established economies of scale and market presence and generally rely on positioning technological advances, and the price of the products. Advanced Baby Monitor Market report includes information on the product launches, sustainability, and prospects of leading vendors including Baby Control Digital, Cubo Ai, Dorel Industries Inc., Hisense Ltd., iBaby Labs Inc., JABLOTRON Group AS, Koninklijke Philips NV, Lorex Technology Inc., Motorola Mobility LLC, Nanit, Owlet Inc., Panasonic Holdings Corp., Safetosleep, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Snuza International Pty. Ltd., Summer Infant Inc., The Holding Angelcare Inc., VTech Holdings Ltd., WiFi Baby, Withings France SA

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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NEW ORLEANS, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF continues its investigation into C3.ai, Inc. ("C3" or the "Company") (NYSE: AI).

In December 2020, the Company went public, completing its Initial Public Offering, touting throughout the process the Company's relationships with technology leaders, including Baker Hughes, and its "large and rapidly growingmarket," among other things. Then, on February 22, 2022, Spruce Point Capital Management reported that it had uncovered "[e]vidence of a severely challenged partnership with Baker Hughes, a related party and C3.ai's largest customer" and "[s]igns of problematic financial reporting and accounting regarding the Baker Hughes joint venture and a revolving door in C3.ai's Chief Financial Officer position."

Thereafter, the Company and certain of its executives were sued in a securities class action lawsuit, charging them with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period in violation of federal securities laws. Recently, the court presiding over that case denied the Company's motion to dismiss in part, allowing the case to move forward.

KSF's investigation is focusing on whether C3's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to its shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws.

If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of C3 shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-833-938-0905 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-ai/ to learn more.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients  including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors  in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit ksfcounsel.com.

Contact:

Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner

[email protected]

1-877-515-1850

1100 Poydras St., Suite 960

New Orleans, LA 70163

SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
SHANGHAI, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- A promotional event for the seventh China International Import Expo and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum was held in Windhoek, capital of Namibia, on April 9.

Approximately 120 people attended the event, including representatives from Namibia's Ministry of Industrialization and Trade, the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), businesses, and exhibition organizations.

Representatives deliver speeches during the event.

Shen Jian, charge d'affaires ad interim of the Chinese embassy in Namibia, noted that China has been Namibia's second-largest trading partner and the largest source of foreign direct investment for consecutive years. He expressed hope that Namibian businesses can better understand the CIIE through this event and bring more high-quality local products to the Chinese market to share development opportunities with China.

Song Shangzhe from the CIIE Bureau provided an overview of the CIIE. He stated that over the past six years, an increasing number of African enterprises and unique local products have entered the Chinese market through the expo. As a global public good, the CIIE is willing to support African enterprises and their high-quality products, including those from Namibia, in entering the Chinese market, Song added.

Yu Zirong, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, shared basic information about the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, an important part of the CIIE. He expressed hope that more topics relevant to developing countries, particularly African nations, would be included in the forum's discussions. He also anticipated increased attention and participation from Namibia and other African countries in future editions of the forum.

Representatives from the Namibian government and trade associations said that they will actively mobilize local enterprises to participate in the CIIE to seize the opportunities offered by the Chinese market.

During their time in Namibia, the CIIE working team also visited local institutions and enterprises, including NIPDB and the Namib Desert Diamonds Ltd, to further encourage their participation in the CIIE.

ContactMs. Cui Yan

Tel.0086-21-968888

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NEW ORLEANS, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF has commenced an investigation into ConAgra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG).

In March 2023, a consumer class action lawsuit was filed against the Company alleging violations under Illinois, California, Virginia, and other states' consumer protection laws for providing false or misleading advertisements to consumers, specifically that, despite portraying itself as an eco-friendly and sustainable food manufacturer, the Company actually utilizes harmful fishing techniques that are detrimental to marine wildlife and the marine ecosystem. Recently, the court presiding over that case denied the Company's motion to dismiss in part, allowing the case to move forward.

KSF's investigation is focusing on whether ConAgra's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to its shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws.

If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of ConAgra shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-833-938-0905 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit us at https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-cag/ to learn more.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients  including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors  in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit ksfcounsel.com.

Contact:

Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner

[email protected]

1-877-515-1850

1100 Poydras St., Suite 960

New Orleans, LA 70163

SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
JINHUA, China, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From March 24 to April 2, a delegation from Jinhua City in east China's Zhejiang Province visited Tanzania, Rwanda and South Africa.

Traveling from central Zhejiang to the African continent, the delegation met old friends and made new ones, seeking consensus, cooperation and win-win development in a bid to writing a new chapter in the city's industrial cooperation and enhanced trade and people-to-people exchanges with Africa, according to The Information Office of Jinhua City.

Delegation from east China's Jinhua City visits Africa for closer trade, cultural ties.

At the China-Tanzania Investment Forum & China (Jinhua)-Tanzania Trade and Investment Promotion Conference held on March 27, the Jinhua delegation and more than 260 representatives of local enterprises and institutions signed a number of cooperation agreements involving agricultural machinery, barter trade platform, one-stop procurement of hardware tools and other fields, with the contract value totaling 65 million U.S. dollars.

In recent years, Jinhua has actively participated in the co-development of the Belt and Road Initiative with continuous and deep-level economic cooperation and trade exchanges with African countries.

The city has established trade ties with all African countries and regions, and about 30,000 Jinhua businessmen have been doing business in Africa for many years. There are over 10,000 enterprises engaged in cross-border trade with Africa in the city. Last year, nearly 50,000 African merchants came to Jinhua for goods purchase.

According to data from Jinhua's customs, from 2010 to 2023, the city's total exports to Africa increased from 5.84 billion yuan to 106.64 billion yuan, an 18-fold increase in 14 years.

Last year, trade with Africa exceeded 100 billion yuan for the first time, reaching 116.85 billion yuan, accounting for 30.8 percent of Zhejiang's trade with Africa and ranking first in the field among prefecture-level cities in China.

On March 28, the signing ceremony between Jinhua and Rwanda to deepen vocational education cooperation and the opening ceremony for international students was held in Musanze, Rwanda.

Zhang Yanping, vice president of Jinhua Polytechnic, said that two professional teaching standards developed by the college and overseas partners have been incorporated into the Rwanda education qualification framework system.

Jinhua Polytechnic has participated in several national and provincial overseas vocational education and training programs, nurturing a group of Rwandan natives who master Chinese and professional skills.

On April 1, the Jinhua delegation visited the Cape Town Grand Theatre in South Africa, which is the sister theater of Zhejiang Wu Opera Art Research Institute. In July last year, when the two sides inked ties, they staged their respective representative performances, whose charm earned rounds of applauses.

"As a hub for cooperation and exchanges between China and Africa, Jinhua has been carrying out exchanges and cooperation in culture, tourism and art, with fruitful achievements," said Xu Peng, a senior official with Zhejiang's culture and tourism bureau and vice chairman of the World Tourism Alliance.

With the advancement and deepening of China-Africa cultural cooperation and exchanges, more and more cultural tourism products featuring Zhejiang cultural elements will integrate into China-Africa cultural exchanges, cooperation and mutual learning in the future, Xu said.

SOURCE The Information Office of Jinhua City
CHICAGO, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Dimethyl Carbonate Market by Application (Polycarbonate Synthesis, Battery Electrolyte, Solvents, Reagents), End-Use Industry (Plastics, Paints & Coatings, Pharmaceuticals), Grade (Industry, Pharmaceutical, Battery), and Region - Global Forecast to 2028", size is projected to grow from USD 1.1 billion in 2023 and reach USD 1.9 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 12.7% from 2023 to 2028. The demand for dimethyl carbonate as a key ingredient in battery electrolytes is experiencing significant growth. The expanding market for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies further drives the growth of the DMC market are the key drivers for the dimethyl carbonate market.

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Polycarbonate synthesis is estimated to hold the most significant share of the global dimethyl carbonate market by application.

By application, polycarbonate synthesis is estimated to dominate the dimethyl carbonate market globally. Polycarbonate derived from DMC offers excellent mechanical properties, optical clarity, and thermal resistance, meeting the stringent performance requirements of modern applications. As a result, manufacturers are increasingly turning to DMC-based polycarbonates to meet market demands for high-quality and eco-friendly materials. This factor is expected to fuel the overall market.

By end-use industry, the plastic segment will lead the dimethyl carbonate market during the forecast period.

In terms of end-use industry, the plastic segment is anticipated to hold the leading position in the dimethyl carbonate industry. The plastic segment in the dimethyl carbonate market is witnessing growth fueled by increasing demand for eco-friendly polycarbonates, advancements in material science and technology, and a focus on circular economy principles. As industries strive to meet sustainability goals and regulatory requirements, DMC-based plastics offer a promising solution for developing environmentally friendly and high-performance plastic materials.

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By grade, the industrial grade segment will lead the dimethyl carbonate market during the forecast period.

Regarding grade, the industrial grade segment is anticipated to lead in the dimethyl carbonate industry. Dimethyl carbonate is considered a greener alternative to many traditional solvents and methylating agents due to its low toxicity, biodegradability, and minimal environmental impact. This factor is anticipated to contribute the growth of dimethyl carbonate market in various industries.

During the forecast period, Asia Pacific will lead the global dimethyl carbonate market.

In 2022, the Asia Pacific region held the dominant share in the global dimethyl carbonate industry. Forecasts suggest this region will experience a significant Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) between 2023 and 2028. One crucial factor is the rapid economic growth and urbanization in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations, resulting in a surging demand for greener solution. As these economies seek sustainable and clean energy solutions, dimethyl carbonate has become crucial in meeting their increasing needs.

Key Players

Some of the leading manufacturers of dimethyl carbonate profiled in this report are UBE Corporation (Japan), Merck KGaA (Germany), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (UK), Lotte Chemical (South Korea), Kowa Company Ltd. (Japan), Kishida Chemical Co. Ltd. (Japan), Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (Japan), and Shandong Shida Shenghua Chemical Group Co., Ltd. (China).

Browse Adjacent Market: Specialty Chemicals Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Battery Electrolyte Market - Global Forecast to 2027

Polycarbonate Resin Market - Global Forecast to 2020

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Pluripotent Stem Cells: Global Markets is basically a study about the worldwide market for a special type of stem cell called pluripotent stem cells. It looks at things like how many are being used, where they're being used, who's using them, and how much they're worth in different parts of the world.

BOSTON, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "According to the latest research study, the demand for Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Global Markets expected to grow from $3.4 billion in 2023 to reach $5.2 billion by the end of 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2023 through 2028"

This report looks at the business side of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) instead of the technical details. It covers different parts of the market for iPSCs, like the types of products and how they're used, such as for drug development or research. It also looks at where iPSCs are used around the world, like in the U.S., Asia-Pacific, Europe, and other places. The report talks about companies that make iPSC-related products and what's driving or holding back the market's growth. It predicts how the market will change in the future, especially in areas like drug discovery. The report doesn't go into detailed technical stuff like how to make iPSCs or how to use them in large-scale manufacturing. It's mainly focused on understanding the business of iPSCs.

Scientists use iPSC-derived cells to test medications for safety and effectiveness before giving them to people. For instance, they use iPSC-derived neurons to check if new drugs can help treat Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. iPSCs also help scientists understand how diseases like cancer develop, so they can find better treatments. They even use iPSCs to create mini-organs called organoids, which help study diseases and test new treatments.

Unlock the opportunities in the Worldwide Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Global Markets. Click here to delve into comprehensive research findings and strategic insights.

Key Market Drivers of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Global Markets:

Growing Research and Development in iPSCs: refers to the increasing focus and efforts in studying and improving induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). This includes conducting more research to understand iPSCs better, exploring their potential applications, and developing new techniques or technologies related to iPSCs. Increased Investment in Biotechnology Industry: indicates a rise in the amount of money being put into the biotechnology sector. This includes funding for research, development, and commercialization of biotech products and technologies. Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: indicates a rise in the amount of money being put into the biotechnology sector. This includes funding for research, development, and commercialization of biotech products and technologies.

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Report Synopsis

Report Metrics Details Base year considered 2022 Forecast Period considered 2023-2028 Base year market size $3.1 billion Market Size Forecast $5.2 billion Growth Rate CAGR of 9.1% from 2023 to 2028 Segment Covered By Reprogramming Method, Application, Method, Derived Tissue Cell Type, Species, Product Function, End Use, and Geographic Region Regions covered The U.S., Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW) Key Market Drivers Growing Research and Development in iPSCs

Increased Investment in Biotechnology Industry

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases

Segmentation Analysis of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Global Markets:

By Application: induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have a few main applications. They're used in drug development and testing to see if new medicines are safe. They're also used in academic research to study diseases and find new treatments. Additionally, iPSCs are used in regenerative medicine to help repair or replace damaged tissues in the body.

By Product Function: induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have different functions. They can change into different types of cells, which is called cell differentiation. They're also grown and kept alive in a lab environment, known as cell culture. iPSCs can be reprogrammed to act like other cells in the body, called cellular reprogramming. Scientists also study them closely to understand how they work, which is cell analysis. Additionally, iPSCs are engineered at a molecular and cellular level for specific purposes.

By Purpose of Tests: Tests serve different purposes in healthcare. Some are for screening or finding issues early, like cancer screenings. Monitoring tests track how a condition changes over time, such as blood sugar tests for diabetes. Diagnostic tests help identify what's causing symptoms, like blood tests for infections. Therapy guidance tests help doctors choose the best treatment, such as genetic tests to match cancer drugs to a patient's genes.

This report on induced pluripotent stem cells: global markets provide comprehensive insights and analysis, addressing the following key questions:

What is the projected market size and growth rate of the market?



The global induced pluripotent stem cell market was valued at $3 billion in 2022 and will reach $5.2 billion by 2028. It is expected to witness a CAGR of 9.1% from 2023 to 2028.



What are the key factors driving the growth of the market?



The global induced pluripotent stem cell market is witnessing intrinsic growth owing to growing research and development in iPSC, increased investment in biotechnology industry and rising prevalence of chronic diseases.



What segments are covered in the market?



The induced pluripotent stem cell market is segmented based on type, application, product function, method, species, and region.



By application type, which segment will dominate the market by the end of 2028?



The drug development and toxicity testing segment will dominate the market in 2028.



Which region has the highest market share in the market?



US holds the highest share of the market.

Some of the Key Market Players Are:

ADDGENE

ALSTEM

APPLIED STEMCELL INC.

AXOL BIOSCIENCE LTD.

BLUEROCK THERAPEUTICS

CELL SIGNALING TECHNOLOGY (CST)

CREATIVE BIOARRAYY

FUJIFILM CELLULAR DYNAMICS INC. (FCDI)

GENTARGET INC.

INVIVOGEN

MEGAKARYON CORP.

NCARDIA

PEPROTECH INC.

PROMEGA CORP.

QIAGEN NV

SCIENCELL RESEARCH LABORATORIES

SYSTEM BIOSCIENCES INC.

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC INC.

WAISMAN BIOMANUFACTURING

ALLELE BIOTECHNOLOGY AND PHARMACEUTICALS INC.

APPLIED BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS INC. (ABM)

ATCC

BIO-TECHNE

BRISTOL -MYERS SQUIBB CO.

-MYERS SQUIBB CO. CORNING INC.

FATE THERAPEUTICS

GENECOPOEIA INC.

ID PHARMA CO. LTD.

LONZA

MERCK KGAA

NEWCELLS BIOTECH

PLASTICELL LTD.

PROMOCELL GMBH

REPROCELL INC.

STEMCELL TECHNOLOGIES

TAKARA BIO INC

VERTEX PHARMACEUTICALS INC

Browse for more related reports:

Global Market for Stem Cells: "Stem Cells" are special cells in our bodies that can develop into many different types of cells. They are like the building blocks for our bodies.

It means the worldwide business of buying and selling these special cells. This market includes everything related to stem cells, like research, treatments, therapies, and products that use stem cells to help with medical issues or for other purposes.

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NEW YORK, April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global film capacitor market size is estimated to grow by USD 477.85 mn from 2023-2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of almost 3.18% during the forecast period. The film capacitor market encompasses various applications, including electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), medical devices, audio equipment, lighting systems, and power electronics. Driven by environmental regulations and cost-effectiveness, this market witnesses continuous technological advancements in areas like high-voltage systems, insulation resistance, and safety standards. Key applications include traction systems, locomotives, and renewable energy systems like wind turbines and solar inverters.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Film Capacitor Market 2023-2027

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Film Capacitor Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017 - 2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 3.18% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 477.85 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 3.01 Regional analysis APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 69% Key countries US, China, Japan, Germany, and UK Key companies profiled Cefem Group, Cornell Dubilier Electronics Inc., Custom Electronics Inc., DongGuan Xuansn Electronic Tech, Electro Technik Industrtries Inc., Foshan Shunde District Sheng Ye, Hi Fi Collective Ltd., Hitachi Ltd., Icel Srl, Kyocera Corp., NICHICON Corp., Ningbo Topo Electronic Co. Ltd., Panasonic Holdings Corp., Suntan Technology Co. Ltd., TDK Corp., Vishay Intertechnology Inc., WIMA GmbH and Co. KG, Wurth Elektronik GmbH and Co. KG, XIAMEN FARATRONIC Co. Ltd., and Yageo Corp.

Segment Overview

This film capacitor market report extensively covers market segmentation by Type (Polyester film capacitors, Polypropylene film capacitors, PTFE film capacitors, Others) Application (AC applications, DC applications) Geography (APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, South America)

Market segmentation by Type

The Film Capacitor Market encompasses a wide range of applications in various industries, primarily driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy sources. Film capacitors, as essential electronic components, play a crucial role in energy storage and voltage regulation in UPS and solar inverters. Beyond renewable energy, film capacitors find extensive use in various sectors including automotive industry, consumer electronics, aerospace, military, power supplies, and industrial machinery. Their compact size, high reliability, temperature stability, and long lifespan make them indispensable in circuit boards, electrical systems, and frequency converters for voltage regulation, signal conditioning, and surge protection. Film capacitors are also integral to capacitor banks in electric vehicles, telecommunications, medical devices, audio equipment, lighting systems, smart grids, and photovoltaic inverters. Furthermore, they are essential components in wind turbines, traction systems for locomotives and generators, inverters, rectifiers, motor drives, robotics, and other power electronics applications.

Geography Overview

The Film Capacitor Market in APAC is experiencing significant growth due to increasing investments in high-voltage power grids and the rise of renewable energy resources. Film capacitors, known for their high reliability, temperature stability, and low losses, are essential components in various equipment, including DC and AC converters, motors, snubber circuits, and rectifier circuits. These capacitors are utilized in hybrid vehicles, electronic devices, frequency converters, filtering, signal conditioning, voltage regulation, surge protection, and capacitor banks. Additionally, film capacitors play a crucial role in printed circuit boards of electric vehicles, telecommunications, medical devices, audio equipment, lighting systems, smart grids, photovoltaic inverters, wind turbines, uninterruptible power supplies, power factor correction, traction systems, locomotives, generators, inverters, rectifiers, motor drives, robotics, sensors, actuators, electronic control units, high-speed trains, hybrid power systems, grid-tie inverters, charge-discharge circuits, DC link applications, harmonic filters, power electronics, high-voltage systems, and automotive electronics. With their long lifespan, insulation resistance, and dielectric absorption, film capacitors are indispensable in various industries, including renewable energy and transportation.

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Smart grids, electrical networks with computer intelligence and real-time data exchange capabilities, enhance grid reliability and efficiency. Benefits include heightened security, efficient energy transmission, low power costs, quick power restoration, reduced peak demand, and renewable energy integration. Key components include sensors, actuators, film capacitors, power electronics, and high-voltage systems. Film capacitor market involves film material, dielectric, metallization, winding, encapsulation, and safety standards for applications in automotive, consumer electronics, aerospace, military, power supplies, and renewable energy.

The film capacitor market encompasses various industries, including automotive, consumer electronics, aerospace, military, power supplies, renewable energy, and industrial machinery. These capacitors, used for voltage energy storage and applications, can be compact and offer high reliability, temperature stability, and long lifespan. However, a concern is the rise of counterfeit film capacitors, which can have incorrect capacitance values and cause damage to devices and systems.

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Research Analysis

The Film Capacitor Market encompasses the production, sales, and distribution of film capacitors, a crucial electronic component in various industries. Film capacitors are renowned for their high voltage and energy storage capabilities, making them indispensable in applications such as power supplies for consumer electronics, automotive industry, aerospace, military, and renewable energy. These capacitors play a significant role in smoothing out voltage fluctuations and providing energy reserve in electronic circuits. The Film Capacitor Market is driven by the increasing demand for reliable and efficient energy storage solutions across diverse sectors.

Market Research Overview

The Film Capacitor Market encompasses a significant segment of the electronics industry. These capacitors, integral to film technology, are crucial components in various applications such as power supplies, radio frequency circuits, and image sensors. The market is driven by the increasing demand for advanced technologies in consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial sectors. Capacitance ranges from picofarads to microfarads, with film types including polypropylene, polyester, and polycarbonate. Voltage ratings vary, with high voltage capacitors in high demand. The market is competitive, with key players including Murata Manufacturing, Panasonic, and TDK. Consumption trends indicate growth, with the Asia Pacific region leading the market. The future of the Film Capacitor Market looks promising, with advancements in technology and increasing applications in emerging sectors.

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
HOUSTON, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Group 1 Automotive, Inc. (NYSE: GPI) ("Group 1" or the "Company"), a Fortune 300 automotive retailer with 202 dealerships located in the U.S. and U.K., today announced that it will release financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024 on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, before the market opens. Daryl Kenningham, Group 1's President and Chief Executive Officer, and the Company's senior management team will host a conference call to discuss the results later that morning at 9:00 a.m. ET.

The conference call will be simulcast live on the Internet at http://www.group1corp.com/events. A webcast replay will be available for 30 days. A copy of the Company's presentation will also be made available at http://www.group1corp.com/company-presentations.

The conference call will also be available live by dialing in 10 minutes prior to the start of the call at:

Domestic: 1-888-317-6003 International: 1-412-317-6061 Passcode: 5588569

A telephonic replay will be available following the call through May 1, 2024, by dialing:

Domestic: 1-877-344-7529 International: 1-412-317-0088 Replay Code: 3755599

ABOUT GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE, INC.

Group 1 owns and operates 202 automotive dealerships, 265 franchises, and 43 collision centers in the United States and the United Kingdom that offer 35 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships and omni-channel platform, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing; sells service and insurance contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.

Group 1 discloses additional information about the Company, its business, and its results of operations at www.group1corp.com , www.group1auto.com , www.group1collision.com , www.acceleride.com , www.facebook.com/group1auto , and www.twitter.com/group1auto .

Investor contacts:

Terry Bratton

Manager, Investor Relations

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

[email protected]

Media contacts:

Pete DeLongchamps

Senior Vice President, Manufacturer Relations, Financial Services and Public Affairs

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

[email protected]

or

Clint Woods

Pierpont Communications, Inc.

713-627-2223

[email protected]

SOURCE Group 1 Automotive, Inc.
RIVERSIDE, Calif., April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Heiting & Irwin, the premier personal injury and worker's compensation law firm in Riverside, CA, has merged with renowned personal injury firm Rizio Lipinsky to form Rizio Lipinsky Heiting, PC.

With more than 45 years of experience representing people in Riverside who have suffered injuries, Jim Heiting brings a unique level of knowledge and experience to the new firm.

"I'm truly excited to work with Greg Rizio and Daren Lipinsky," Mr. Heiting said. "We will now be able to serve clients on the ground in Riverside, throughout the Inland Empire, as well as in Orange County and beyond."

Mr. Heiting co-founded his previous firm, Heiting & Irwin, which boasted more than $500 million obtained for clients. As a Riverside personal injury attorney, his practice mainly focuses on:

Catastrophic injury  including serious personal injuries and life-altering multi-vehicle collisions.

Construction accidents - including electrical accidents and people who have suffered workplace injuries.

Car accidents  focusing on serious injury-causing crashes.

Truck accidents - focusing on those involving commercial trucking.

Wrongful death  including assisting family members with pursuing compensation for the death of a loved one.

Mr. Heiting joins Greg Rizio & Daren Lipinsky, who built a firm that became one of the top personal injury and employment law firms in the state of California.

Mr. Heiting expresses, "I have always put the clients first; and we have been very successful doing that. I am proud to have Greg Rizio and Daren Lipinsky, who built a firm that became one of the top personal injury and employment law firms in the state of California with that same philosophy, join us to form this great firm."

The attorneys at the firm have been recognized by Top Verdicts, Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers and many others for their work on behalf of clients and as leaders in the legal community.

Mr. Heiting, the only past President of the State Bar of California elected from the Inland Empire, will be joined at the new firm by several attorneys from his award-winning team. Together, Rizio Lipinsky Heiting, PC will be one of the largest, most prestigious firms in San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange Counties.

If you would like to learn more, or if you've been injured and need a highly skilled Riverside injury attorney, contact Jim Heiting at 951-682-6400 or visit their website.

SOURCE Rizio Lipinsky Heiting
Investment Community Teleconference Set for May 14, 2024 at 8 a.m. ET

TORONTO, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Hydro One Limited (TSX: H), the largest electric transmission and distribution utility in Ontario, plans to release its first quarter financial results the morning of May 14, 2024, before North American financial markets open. A summary of the results will be distributed by newswire and the complete MD&A and financial statements will be posted at www.hydroone.com/investors and www.sedarplus.com.

Hydro One's management will host a teleconference with the investment community starting at 8 a.m. ET that same morning to discuss the results and outlook. Those wishing to listen to the teleconference can access the live webcast through the Investor Relations Events and Presentations section of Hydro One's website at www.hydroone.com/investors. A rebroadcast of the teleconference will be available following the call at the same link.

Members of the North American financial community wanting to ask questions during the call should go to this link (registration link), and you will be provided with personalized dial-in details. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the scheduled start time. Other interested parties and media are welcome to participate on a listen-only basis.

Hydro One Limited (TSX: H)

Hydro One Limited, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is Ontario's largest electricity transmission and distribution provider with approximately 1.5 million valued customers, approximately $32.8 billion in assets as at December 31, 2023, and annual revenues in 2023 of approximately $7.8 billion.

Our team of approximately 9,700 skilled and dedicated employees proudly build and maintain a safe and reliable electricity system which is essential to supporting strong and successful communities. In 2023, Hydro One invested approximately $2.5 billion in its transmission and distribution networks, and supported the economy through buying approximately $2.5 billion of goods and services.

We are committed to the communities where we live and work through community investment, sustainability and diversity initiatives.

Hydro One Limited's common shares are listed on the TSX and certain of Hydro One Inc.'s medium term notes are listed on the NYSE. Additional information can be accessed at www.hydroone.com, www.sedarplus.com or www.sec.gov.

For More Information

For more information about everything Hydro One, please visit www.hydroone.com where you can find additional information including links to securities filings, historical financial reports, and information about the Company's governance practices, corporate social responsibility, customer solutions, and further information about its business.

SOURCE Hydro One Inc.
SINGAPORE, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- IMC Pan Asia Alliance (IMCPAA) unveiled a historic rebrand as (TPC) Tsao Pao Chee Group Pte Ltd at the AT ONE International Festival in Suzhou, China today. This significant milestone, under the helm of fourth-generation steward and Chavalit Frederick Tsao, Chairman, TPC (Tsao Pao Chee) Group propels the company into an exciting new era laser-focused on impactful investments and fostering a well-being economy.

TPC (Tsao Pao Chee Group) Chairman, Chavalit Frederick Tsao

The TPC brand honours the company's original tradename, Tsao Pao Chee, which dates back about 120 years during the Qing Dynasty. It signals its evolved commitment to creating value through stewardship, collaboration, and entrepreneurship in service of life's flourishing. This rebrand echoes Chavalit's clarion vision: transforming family businesses into catalysts for positive change across societies.

"This is more than just turning the page. We need to go back to finding our own roots, our own culture, our own morality, and ethical traditions. Therefore, I decided to return to our roots and bring back the original trade name of the family business used by my great grandfather because that has always been our true brand, " Chavalit said.

The rebranding is more than just a new name and logo. It symbolises the dedication to aligning business success with the betterment of lives and communities. Under the TPC banner, the company is poised to leverage its history of innovation and strategic partnerships to drive sustainable growth. Strategic business verticals like IMC Industrial and OCTAVE will reorient toward adding value to co-create the well-being economy. TPC's investment arms have already redirected USD 320 million to invest in the impact and well-being sectors.

TPC is also transforming its approach to corporate philanthropy by incorporating it into its business culture. Three non-profit units have been established to achieve this: OCTAVE Institute, No.17 Foundation, and Restore Nature Foundation, which focuses on restoring human relationships, collaboration, and nature, respectively.

Mr Tsao Wa-Chang founded TPC in the late 1800s. Over four generations, for nearly 120 years, the company evolved from a traditional shipping company into a multinational business. Today, TPC is transforming into a purpose-driven profit business with a mission to "serve human well-being and create wealth at the same time."

Under Chavalit's stewardship, OCTAVE, which fused wisdom from Eastern practices with modern science, is created to foster individual and collective growth. Chavalit's founding of OCTAVE and involvement in various philanthropic endeavours speak to his commitment to stewarding the business as a purpose-led profit institution.

The brand's new logo melds English and Chinese characters into one holistic emblem, and the colour "Awakening Red" represents new materialism. TPC's corporate colour, emerald green, reflects TPC's deep reverence for nature as the source of life, while its crisp, flowing geometry symbolises constant evolution and the open exchange of ideas.

TPC calls on entrepreneurs, investors, economists and socially conscious leaders across the globe to join them in co-creating an economy where purpose and profit flourish in tandem. Through innovation, courage, and the radical embrace of interconnectedness, TPC is committed to driving progress where it matters most  the flourishing of all life.

About Tsao Pao Chee Group Pte Ltd

TPC (Tsao Pao Chee) is a purpose-led-profit family business consisting of OCTAVE, IMC Industrial, and various non-profit organisations operating as one integrated system to create a well-being business ecosystem. The company's headquarters is in Singapore, with a strong presence in China, Indonesia, and Thailand. TPC employs more than 8000 people.

For more information, visit https://tsaopaochee.com/

SOURCE (TPC) Tsao Pao Chee
NEW YORK, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global industrial chocolate market size is estimated to grow by USD 2.85 bn from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.08% during the forecast period. Europe held the largest share of the global market in 2023, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 37%.

To understand more about this market- Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes!

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Industrial Chocolate Market 2024-2028

Major Players in the Market

Numerous companies are capitalizing on this growing trend by implementing strategic measures such as alliances, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. Among the notable players in the cheese based snacks market are:

Barry Callebaut AG, Bonn Nutrients Pvt. Ltd., Cargill Inc., Cemoi, Chocoladefabriken Lindt and Sprungli AG, Dunkin Brands Group Inc., Ferrero International S.A., Fuji Oil Holdings Inc., General Mills Inc., Guittard Chocolate Co., JI NATURALS LLC, Mars Inc., Mondelez International Inc., NATRA SA, Nestle SA, Parle Products Pvt. Ltd., Puratos Group NV, The Hershey Co., UNIBIC Foods India Pvt. Ltd., Unilever PLC

Analyst Review

The Industrial Chocolate Market is a significant segment of the global cocoa production industry, catering to the demands of the confectionery industry for raw chocolate materials. This market's growth is driven by increasing global consumption of chocolate and advancements in processing technologies. Key chocolate manufacturers invest heavily in research and development to improve production efficiency and product quality. The Industrial Chocolate Market's size is projected to expand at a steady pace in the coming years, fueled by the rising demand for chocolate in various applications, including bakery products, confectionery, and beverages.

Key Market Drivers

The Industrial Chocolate Market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing chocolate consumption and the rising popularity of dark chocolate products. Chocolate Brands are expanding their Production Capacity to meet the Market Development driven by consumer preferences for healthier chocolate options. Raw Materials, particularly cocoa, play a crucial role in Chocolate Production, and their prices in the Cocoa Market impact Market Dynamics. Market Challenges include intense competition among Chocolate Market Players, fluctuating cocoa prices, and consumer concerns about sugar content. Chocolate Retail and Distribution Channels continue to evolve, with e-commerce and specialty stores gaining popularity. Chocolate Ingredients, such as fiber, minerals, and organic compounds, contribute to the Market Expansion and differentiate products in the Market Segmentation. Market Insights reveal that consumers prioritize health benefits, ethical sourcing, and unique flavors when choosing Chocolate Businesses. Market Growth is driven by Market Trends like vegan and organic chocolate, and innovations in Chocolate Packaging. The Market Size is expected to increase, with opportunities in emerging markets and niche segments. Market Analysis indicates that key Market Competitors include Mars, Nestle, and Hershey's, who dominate the Chocolate Market Share. In conclusion, the Industrial Chocolate Market is a dynamic and evolving industry, shaped by consumer preferences, raw material prices, and technological innovations. Market Forecasts indicate continued growth, driven by Market Opportunities in emerging markets and niche segments.

Challenges and Opportunities

The Industrial Chocolate Market in the global sector has experienced significant challenges due to volatile cocoa prices and supply constraints. With West Africa accounting for 75% of global cocoa production, a reduction in yield in key countries like Ghana and the Ivory Coast is widening the supply-demand gap. This situation is negatively impacting market growth, increasing procurement costs for manufacturers, and disrupting the chocolate value chain. Despite these challenges, the market continues to evolve, with trends such as product innovation, sustainable practices, and market expansion driving growth. Processing technologies, distribution channels, and chocolate packaging are also critical market dynamics. Market leaders include major chocolate brands, which are increasing production capacity to meet demand. Emerging markets, particularly in Asia, are presenting new opportunities for market development. Consumption patterns and sales are shifting towards premium chocolate, driven by changing consumer preferences. Market research indicates that the chocolate industry is forecasted to continue growing, despite challenges from raw material prices and market volatility. Market players are addressing these challenges through various strategies, including vertical integration, supply chain optimization, and strategic partnerships. The chocolate market is segmented by product type, application, and region, with each segment presenting unique opportunities and challenges. Overall, the market is expected to remain dynamic, with ongoing innovation and sustainability efforts shaping its future.

The Chocolate Market, a significant segment of the Industrial Sector, is experiencing growth driven by consumer preferences for sustainable and ethically produced chocolate. Market leaders, such as Barry and Cargill, prioritize sustainable cocoa production as a corporate strategy. This approach encompasses farmer prosperity, zero child labor, sustainable chocolate production, and environmental protection. The global consumption of chocolate in the Confectionery Industry continues to rise, fueling the market's expansion. Market dynamics include supply chain challenges, product innovation, and emerging markets. Key players, including chocolate manufacturers, invest in processing technologies to meet increasing demand. The market forecast indicates continued growth, with opportunities in sustainable cocoa production and carbon footprint minimization. Market analysis reveals that market competitors, such as Barry and Cargill, are addressing these challenges through their commitment to sustainable cocoa production and reducing their carbon footprint.

To understand more about this market- Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes!

Market Overview

The Industrial Chocolate Market is a significant sector that caters to the production of chocolate on a large scale. Markets such as Consumption, Production, and Procurement play a crucial role in this industry. Chocolate is produced in countries like China, India, and Indonesia, while countries like Germany, France, and the United States are major consumers. Markets for chocolate include confectionery, bakery, and dairy. The market for chocolate is driven by factors such as increasing demand for chocolate in various applications, growing health awareness, and the emergence of new markets in developing countries. The market is segmented into types such as Milk, Dark, and White chocolate. The market for chocolate is expected to grow at a significant rate due to the increasing demand for chocolate in various industries and applications. The market is also influenced by factors such as raw material prices, technological advancements, and government regulations. The market for chocolate is a dynamic and evolving industry that offers numerous opportunities for growth and innovation.

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
PITTSBURGH, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "I'm a physical therapist who specializes in women's pelvic health. I wanted to create a product for all genders to help heal the pelvic floor," said an inventor, from North Riverside, Ill., "so I invented the INPOWER WELLNESS WAND. My design would offer an alternative to traditional pelvic dilators."

The patent-pending invention provides a unique design for a pelvic dilator used to treat various pelvic floor conditions. In doing so, it would combine medical and holistic practices to optimize healing, health, and wellness. As a result, it could make an uncomfortable but necessary form of treatment more enjoyable. It also could heighten spiritual energy and healing. The invention features a therapeutic and holistic design that is easy to use so it is ideal for women and men with pelvic floor conditions. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.

The original design was submitted to the Chicago sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 22-CLR-230, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp
LOS ANGELES, April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Globe Life Inc. ("Globe Life" or "the Company") (NYSE: GL) for violations of the securities laws.

The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Globe Life is the subject of a report published by Fuzzy Panda Research on April 11, 2024. According to the report, invesigators "uncovered extensive allegations of insurance fraud ignored by management despite being obvious and reported hundreds of times." Based on this report, shares of Globe Life fell by almost 60% in intraday trading on the same day.

If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.

We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].

The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.

CONTACT:

The Schall Law Firm

Brian Schall, Esq.

310-301-3335

[email protected]

www.schallfirm.com

SOURCE The Schall Law Firm
TOKYO, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shueisha Inc. and alu Inc., both headquartered in Tokyo, released on April 12 "MANGA Plus Universe" (hereinafter "MPU"), a global manga community platform for exchanging opinions with worldwide fans through AI translation regarding manga comic works listed on "MANGA Plus by SHUEISHA," a free online manga content delivery service.

The community service will be available for about a month through May 13 as a project on the fifth anniversary of "MANGA Plus by SHUEISHA."

Image:

https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108123/202403298776/_prw_PI1fl_Hur12f3n.png

URL: https://mangaplusuniverse.com/

- Outline of MPU

MPU is a global manga community platform enabling worldwide fans to exchange opinions across language barriers on the 15 manga works listed. Users can post comments and images, click "likes" and make replies to others' posts, or cast votes, among others, within threads for expressing opinions on the works in question.

This service has realized natural translation of nine languages including English and Spanish, utilizing "Azure OpenAI Service" offered by Microsoft Corp. while also using "DeepL Translate" and "Google Translate."

- Background of Release

In recent years, sales of Japanese manga comics overseas have continued expanding, thanks to media franchise strategies employed by global visual content platforms, such as Netflix, as one of the factors. In Japan, manga has been original works for animation, movies, dramas and so on, already playing the leading role in the IP content business. Yet, it has the potential to grow as global and larger content down the road.

Publishing house Shueisha has focused on overseas business expansion using various forms including "MANGA Plus by SHUEISHA" released in January 2019. Now, as part of such efforts, and against the backdrop of the rapid development of AI technology, the company released MPU with the support of alu, which has strength in marketing IP content harnessing new technologies.

SOURCE Shueisha Inc., alu Inc.
NEW YORK, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- S4Capital's operating brand Media.Monks, a digital-first marketing and advertising services company, has partnered with The World Literacy Foundation, a global non-profit organization that provides access to literacy education, to launch an innovative learning tool: The Literacy Pen.

According to UNESCO , there are still 773 million illiterate adults worldwide. In response, The World Literacy Foundation and Media.Monks collaborated on developing an innovative, accessible tool that simplifies the learning process to tackle the global illiteracy crisis.

The Literacy Pen is designed to help combat the global illiteracy crisis Post this Designed by Media.Monks and The World Literacy Foundation, The Literacy Pen is a thumb-sized device which can be attached to any standard pen with a light, ergonomic design to promote accessibility.

The Literacy Pen is a thumb-sized device which can be attached to any standard pen with a light, ergonomic design to promote accessibility. Users vocalize the words they would like to write into a built-in microphone, and through voice dictation technology, the device transcribes the word on its digital display, letter by letter. From there, users can copy the words directly onto paper. The Literacy Pen promotes sustainable and independent learning through written repetition and visual reinforcement, allowing illiterate people to start writing and learn to read instantly.

The World Literacy Foundation aims to manufacture 2,000 Literacy Pens for distribution to 50 schools by 2025.

"With The Literacy Pen we are not simply providing a tool; we are offering a lifeline to those fighting illiteracy, empowering them with the skills they need for a better tomorrow," says Vanessa Portilla, COO of The World Literacy Foundation.

"The Literacy Pen holds the potential to impact millions of people who are limited in their daily lives because they don't know how to read or write. We applied basic technology in an innovative way to develop The Literacy Pen, and we hope that this tool will inspire independent learning and open doors to new opportunities for its users," says Jouke Vuurmans, Chief Creative Officer at Media.Monks.

About Media.Monks

Media.Monks is the global, purely digital, unitary operating brand of S4Capital plc. Since 2021, Media.Monks has combined diverse solutionsmedia, data, social, platforms, studio, experience, brand and technology servicesto serve as a consultative partner integrating systems and workflows that deliver unfettered content production, scaled experiences and data science fueled by AI and the industry's very best talent and teams.

Media.Monks was named a Contender in The Forrester Wave: Global Marketing Services. It has earned a constant presence on Adweek's Fastest Growing lists (2019-23), ranks among Cannes Lions' Top 10 Creative Companies (2022-23), and earns continual inclusion in AdExchanger's Programmatic Power Players (2020-23). It has also been named Adweek's first AI Agency of the Year (2023). Business Intelligence has recognized Media.Monks in its 2024 Excellence in Artificial Intelligence Awards program in three categories: the Individual category, Organizational Winner in AI Strategic Planning, and AI Product for its service Monks.Flow. Media.Monks has earned the title of Webby Production Company of the Year (2021-23), won a record number of FWAs, and a spot on Newsweek's Top 100 Global Most Loved Workplaces 2023.

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.

The S4Capital Board includes Rupert Faure Walker, Paul Roy, Daniel Pinto, Sue Prevezer, Elizabeth Buchanan, Naoko Okumoto, Margaret Ma Connolly, Miles Young and Colin Day as Non-Executive Directors.

The Company now has approximately 7,700 people in 32 countries with approximately 80% of net revenue across the Americas, 15% across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and 5% across Asia-Pacific. The longer-term objective is a geographic split of 60%:20%:20%. Content currently accounts for approximately 60% of net revenue, Data&Digital Media 25% and Technology Services 15%. 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
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has enough reserves to satisfy the foreign currency requirements of all legitimate businesses and no company needs to go to the black market to pay for imports, RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu said yesterday.At the same time the Government is still working out which taxes will be paid in ZiG and will be making adjustments to regulations so that those holding the old Zimbabwe dollar banknotes will be able to deposit the lot without problems, even if the 21-day deadline has to be extended, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, told Parliament on Wednesday.Dr Mushayavanhu said businesses should approach their banks to buy ZiG or US dollars, instead of promoting the black market which is now charging up to ZiG18 when it sells US$1, although paying a lot less to buy that US dollar, something much closer to what the banks pay because of the very high margins between buy and sell rates on the black market.The Reserve Bank has adopted a market-determined system for setting exchange rates, with the auction system being replaced by a refined interbank foreign exchange market through which the commercial banks buy foreign currency from willing sellers and sell it to willing buyers, with the margins far lower than in the black market. The weighted average of the rates at each bank form the interbank rates.In an interview with Zimpapers Television network (ZTN) yesterday, Dr Mushayavanhu was confident that the ZiG would turn the tables against the black market, as the new local currency would not budge to the US dollar.He allayed fears that the ZiG is now taking a battering from the US dollar, saying it is a matter of time before those with ZiG will start controlling the prices."I do not understand why would anyone go to the black market when we have said . . . if you have a legitimate foreign currency obligation to pay be it a service, be it school fees, be it import of goods, you will be able to get your money at your bank on a willing seller-willing buyer," he said.He discouraged people from trading at the parallel market when they knew the true value of the ZiG."Very soon the opposite is going to happen as I told you," said Dr Mushayavanhu. "People who are holding ZiG are the ones who are going to be controlling the price."The Reserve Bank would itself help feed the market with the 25 percent surrender export earnings. Now there is adequate foreign currency reserves to cover all import requirements, so legitimate businesses did not have to turn to the black market.When asked why the bank did not put measures for ZiGs to be able to buy fuel and pay rentals among other huge services that are demanding foreign currency, Dr Mushayavanhu said it was not necessary considering the amount of the local currency in the economy."The economy is 80 percent dollarised and I have said this before. Right now if I search the pockets of the people who are the audience here, I am likely to find for every US$100, $80 will be in real US and $20 equivalent in local currency," he said."That is the nature of the things. Unless you are saying the 80 percent that you have is not enough to pay for your rent and only the 20 percent that is ZiG is the one that should pay for rent and nothing else."Dr Mushayavanhu also urged banks to finalise currency conversion by the end of this week.This comes at a time when the country has introduced a new currency, with new notes expected in circulation on April 30."We are urging our banks to speed up the processes of conversion, but banks are using core-banking systems that have been provided by different vendors," he said."Some vendors were quick to convert while others did not even get their conversions until Saturday evening. So, we have allowed banks to continue the conversion processes, but obviously we need to ensure that before the end of this week every bank is online and customers are able to make transactions."Presenting the 2024 Monetary Policy Statement in Harare last week, Dr Mushayavanhu, said a transparent price discovery mechanism was now in place in the interbank market and the bank would continue to provide trading liquidity to the market using the 25 percent surrender proceeds from exports.He was not worried about the black market, saying he had enough tools and reserves to back the new currency, challenging those sworn to operating in the black market and fuelling exchange rate volatility to dare and see if they could hurt the new domestic unit of transacting.Going by the current total reserve money in circulation of Z$2,6 trillion at the point of conversion to the ZiG, the equivalent of US$80 million, the RBZ boss said he had enough foreign currency reserves to meet external invoices while his total reserve currency war chest guaranteed three times cover once the gold reserves were taken into account as they provided 200 percent cover.Briefing Parliament on the ZiG and answering questions, Prof Ncube told the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Clemence Chiduwa, that the Government was already working on the support measures to back the ZiG."We have a few, but I should not announce them here in Parliament. I will just give an indication. What we have announced for sure is that 50 percent of the company taxes, corporate taxes will be in ZiG to increase the demand for our currency."We will be very specific when we make the announcement as to which fees and which taxes will be paid in ZiG beyond the request that corporates pay in domestic currency. We will make an announcement in the fullness of time. I will beg for indulgence on this one and not to make it in Parliament today but we already have an idea," Prof Ncube said.In the monetary policy statement, Dr Mushayavanhu said payment of taxes or a portion of them using the ZiG was one way of creating demand for the new currency and promote its use.The Finance Minister, also told the parliamentarians that the RBZ will reconsider its requirement that people wishing to deposit Z$100 000 cash explain their source of the money, since the amount was far too low, being worth around US$3."We should not be bothering depositors. Certainly, that is a good point," he said.He said banks will continue to accept these deposits of Zimbabwe dollars in cash for 21 days after April 30 but added that there was a possibility to extend the deadline."I have been made aware that we may even need to extend that period. That is okay so that we can give our citizens, especially in the rural areas that need to travel and be able to convert their Zimbabwe dollars into ZiG currency," he said.
Nord Anglia's Distinctions programme created with support from UNICEF UK

LONDON, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading international schools provider Nord Anglia Education has created a Social Impact Distinction programme with support from UNICEF UK* recognising schools' social impact efforts related to equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDIB).

Schools work towards three levels of accreditation: bronze, silver, and gold, showcasing how they have embedded children's rights and the United Nation's 17 Sustainable Development Goals into their practice. The Distinctions also further enhance the EDIB and social impact activities schools are already undertaking, while ensuring their impact is accurately measured.

As a framework for how schools can become even better at serving others, the Distinctions recognise the efforts of entire school communities, with educators, students, and parents involved in the process.

The Social Impact Distinctions are just one global initiative where Nord Anglia's schools work to make a difference to their communities and help students develop their sense of purpose and global citizenship.

Frances Bestley, Director of Programmes at UNICEF UK, said: "We know teaching about children's rights has a significant impact on a school's culture, developing it into a place where children's voices are heard and there's a shared sense of community and belonging. Children take their right to an education seriously and believe they can change the world for the better. That's why we've worked with Nord Anglia to develop the Social Impact Distinctions and I'm certain it's making a difference to children's lives."

Hortensia Prieto, General Director of San Roberto International School, currently working towards gold distinction, said: "Completing the work on the Social Impact Distinction goes beyond the traditional boundaries in education and academics. It fosters a culture of empathy, social awareness, and community engagement among students, encouraging them to address pressing social issues actively through projects that tackle real-world problems. As a result, they become well rounded individuals with the skills and mindset to contribute positively to society".

Ben Turner, Principal at British International School Budapest, also working towards gold, said: "The process of working towards the silver level of the Social Impact Distinction, and the recommendations we received for our work towards gold, ensure we retain a sharp focus on protecting children's rights and also emphasise the importance of children supporting each other. In our school, this manifests itself in strong student programmes and the commitment our students have to ensure that their peers feel a sense of belonging and that they feel safe in school."

Dipika Rao, Principal of Oakridge International School Gachibowli, also working towards gold, said: "Beyond the confines of the classroom, the Social Impact Distinction challenges students to recognise real-world problems in the community and make the most use of available resources to come up with innovative, sustainable solutions. It's a chance for community involvement that results in shared accountability and gives students' a deeper understanding of equality and rights so they can create a better future for all. Having received the silver distinction, we're getting ready to move towards the next level and hope to have a lasting impact on our community.

*UNICEF does not endorse any product, brand, company or service.

Media enquiries

David Bates

Communications Manager

[email protected]

M +44 (0) 7787 135223

About Nord Anglia Education

As the world's leading international schools organisation, we're shaping a generation of creative and resilient global citizens who graduate from our schools with everything they need for success, whatever they choose to be or do in life.

Our strong academic foundations combine world-class teaching and curricula with cutting-edge technology and facilities, creating learning experiences like no other. Inside and outside of the classroom, we inspire our students to achieve more than they ever thought possible.



No two children learn the same way, which is why our schools around the world personalise learning to what works best for every student. Inspired by our high-quality teachers, our students achieve outstanding academic results and go on to study at the world's top universities.

To learn more or apply for a place for your child, go to nordangliaeducation.com.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1503193/Nord_Anglia_Education_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Nord Anglia Education
BEIJING, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

Point of convergence

Yunnan, a province in Southwest China, shares borders and cultural affinity with Southeast Asia, and ancient trade routes such as the ancient Southern Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road have facilitated economic and cultural exchanges between Yunnan and these regions. Yunnan has been a well-deserved regional trade and cultural center between China and the Indochina Peninsula. Since the 1980s, Yunnan has been at the forefront of China's opening-up. In 1992, Yunnan participated in the Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation (GMS), taking advantage of its geographical location to initiate China's involvement in the regional integration processes of Southeast Asia. Since the 21st century, the scope of Yunnan's openness has expanded from South and Southeast Asia to the Pacific and Indian Ocean, as well as the Middle East and Africa, making it one of the most international provinces in China.

With its increasingly prominent role as a hub linking South and Southeast Asia, Yunnan serves as the overlapping intersection in the process of community building on various levels; for example, the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, the Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and the China-ASEAN community with a shared future, as well as the China-Cambodia, China-Laos, China-Myanmar, China-Thailand, and China-Vietnam bilateral communities with a shared future. Based on its abundant biodiversity resources, Yunnan is also becoming the gateway for China's initiatives to promote a community with a shared future for all life on earth.

The advantages of Yunnan's multi-dimensional convergence are reflected in four aspects:

First, Yunnan has become an increasingly prominent hub in the southwest direction of the Belt and Road Initiative over the past decade, and its important gateway role in deepening exchanges and cooperation between China, and South and Southeast Asia has been continuously highlighted in China's foreign policies. Currently, the bilateral provincial cooperation mechanisms between Yunnan and five Mekong countries have been fully established.

Second, Yunnan has formed a framework of inner-outer integration. Yunnan is located at the center of Asia's five-hour aviation circle, and at the intersection of ASEAN 10+1 Free Trade Area, GMS economic cooperation, and the Pan-Pearl River Delta Economic Zone. The China-Laos Railway, China-Europe freight train, and the new western land-sea corridor, enable Yunnan to smoothly connect itself with the six corridors and routes of the BRI. The China-Vietnam, China-Laos, and China-Myanmar international expressways have empowered Yunnan as a pan-Asian transportation hub. Southeast Asian countries can enter western China through Yunnan, connecting to the second Eurasian Continental Bridge. This will be a spectacular continental "bridge", connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa, bridging the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Ocean.

Third, Yunnan is a crucial pivot point in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, linking South and Southeast Asian market with the internal markets of China, which enables production factors from surrounding areas to converge in Yunnan. In 2023, the total trade between Yunnan province and the five Mekong countries reached about $15 billion, and the province has established cross-border renminbi settlement channels with a total of 120 countries and regions. Furthermore, Yunnan has gradually formed a value chain optimization and restructuring system led by the China (Yunnan) Pilot Free Trade Zone.

Fourth, Yunnan is the preferred destination for students from South Asia and Southeast Asia studying in China, and the Yunnan-Mekong Vocational Education Training Base has trained over 55,000 Southeast Asian students. In addition, the secretariat of South and Southeast Asian University Network, as well as the national focal point of the GMS Knowledge Network, are both in Yunnan University, which enhances the systematic knowledge-sharing on development experiences and policy lessons among China and South and Southeast Asia.

In the future, Yunnan's opening-up can focus on cultivating the soft power that brings together all kinds of communities with a shared future.

First, Yunnan should continuously leverage the Lancang-Mekong corridor as a long-term strategic pivot, and closely interact with domestic development policies. Especially, Yunnan should focus on logistics corridors connecting Asia and Europe, as well as the new western land-sea corridor, with strategic development plans for integrating energy and computing power.

Second, given the importance of understanding the world when implementing the BRI, it's crucial to strengthen area studies to adopt a "one country, one policy "approach. With its numerous universities, Yunnan has distinct advantages in the research on Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Based on that, developing and synthesizing policy advice on key issues related to greater regional development should be one of the priority issues for Yunnan's area studies.

Third, Chinese language education and promotion is essential for China's international communication in the coming decades. Yunnan has wide exposure to the outside world, and can develop new models for rapid Chinese language learning through industry-academia-research collaboration in order to enhance the capacity of Chinese international communication.

Last but not least, a global ecological civilization center should also be proposed in the near future. Given its abundant biodiversity resources, Yunnan has unique advantages in establishing a global or China-ASEAN ecological civilization center. By conducting interdisciplinary research and human resource development, Yunnan can assume a leading role in experience and knowledge sharing on environmental protection and the building of an ecological civilization.

In a word, Yunnan will enhance its soft power on convergence, and contribute significantly to achieving more integrated, prosperous, sustainable and inclusive development in the region and beyond.

The authors are Zhai Kun and Zhang Lei. Zhai Kun is a professor at the School of International Studies and deputy director of the Institute of Area Studies at Peking University. Zhang Lei is an associate professor at the Institute of International Studies of Yunnan University.

SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn

Related Links

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Russian River Valley Wine Weekend to Include Three Days of New Experiences August 2nd  4th, 2024

SANTA ROSA, Calif., April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of the 10th Anniversary the Russian River Valley's celebrated Paulee dinner, the Russian River Valley Winegrowers have announced an exciting weekend line-up of events, partnering with Secret Supper to bring an element of mystery to the region's Paulee dinner. Russian River Valley Wine Weekend, which will be held Friday, August 2  Sunday, August 4, 2024 will be an expanded experiential program bringing three full days of wine & culinary delights, as well as tasting and adventure experiences unique to the area.

Russian River Valley Winegrowers Partner with Secret Supper for Unique Twist on Annual Paulee Dinner

As part of the weekend experience, the organization's annual Paulee Dinner will be presented by Secret Supper, a food & wine experiential team that creates unique dining experiences internationally. In the tradition of Secret Supper events, the location of the dinner will remain a secret until 24 hours prior to the event. For those guests who wish to prolong the anticipation, an shuttle service will be offered with no information about the destination until arrival.

The Paulee dinner is a family-style fine dining experience hosted by a dozen local winemakers and growers sharing unique cellar offerings surrounded by live acoustic music. The popular event is named for Burgundy's famous tradition of 'La Paulee', a convivial fete in which wine growers share food and wine with their guests.

Additionally, Russian River Valley Wine Weekend will include unique guest experiences on Friday and Sunday. Friday will kick-off the weekend with a Sunset Soiree event and Sunday will conclude with a lunch to close out the events and wish growers well on the upcoming 2024 harvest season.

The full schedule for Russian River Valley Wine Weekend includes:

Friday, August 2nd  Sunset Soiree Presented by San Francisco Magazine held at Paradise Ridge Winery in Santa Rosa from 5:30 p.m.  8:30 p.m. PST. Guests will have the opportunity to mingle with up to 30 esteemed producers and growers while enjoying a selection of award-winning wines from the valley and small bites from Sonoma County-based food trucks and vendors. Bay Area band, Hella Fitzgerald will perform and a dedicated music lounge will be sponsored by Rodney Strong Vineyards. Tickets to Sunset Soiree start at $185.

Saturday, August 3rd  Paulee Dinner presented by Secret Supper, with location to be announced just prior to the event, will take place from 5:00 p.m.  9:00 p.m. PST. Tickets are $325 and are available through our partners at Secret Supper.

Sunday, August 4th  Russian River Valley Recolte Lunch will be held at Hop Kiln Estate by Landmark Vineyards from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. PST. Up to six producers will host an intimate lunch amongst the hop kilns of the historic property beside the Russian River on Westside Road outside of Healdsburg. Tickets to the Recolte Lunch are $225.

Tickets and more information are available at the newly launched RussianRiverValleyWineWeekend.com. For tickets to the Paulee Dinner, guests should visit https://www.secretsupper.co/shop/p/russian-river-valley-eltdy. For lodging, partner hotel, Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country has extended a special room rate to guests of the weekend.

About Russian River Valley Winegrowers

The Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRVW) is a community of farmers and winemakers promoting the exceptional grapes and world-renowned wines reflective of the diversity within the Russian River Valley AVA. We are multi-generational stewards of our land and natural resources, continuously innovating sustainable practices for the future in our premier region known for its distinctive Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other grape varieties. Russian River Valley celebrated its 40th year as an official AVA in 2023. https://russianrivervalley.org.

Press Contact:

Amy Tesconi Marketing

707-806-7236

https://amytesconimarketing.com

SOURCE Russian River Valley Winegrowers
NEW YORK, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. ("Lamb Weston" or the "Company") (NYSE: LW). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Lamb Weston 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 April 4, 2024, Lamb Weston announced disappointing Q3 2024 financial results that widely missed consensus earnings and revenue estimates. Blaming the Company's transition to a new enterprise resource planning ("ERP") system for the miss and coincident with reducing FY 2024 guidance, ERP stated that "[t]he ERP transition temporarily reduced the visibility of finished goods inventories located at distribution centers, which affected our ability to fill customer orders[]" and "[i]n turn, this pressured sales volume and margin performance." Lamb Weston said that problems with the Company's ERP transition negatively impacted its Q3 net income and adjusted EBITDA by approximately $72 million and $95 million, respectively.

On this news, Lamb Weston's stock price fell $19.59 per share, or 19.37%, to close at $81.53 per share on April 4, 2024.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Danielle Peyton

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

646-581-9980 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
KAWAGUCHI, Japan, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Jin Air Co., Ltd., a low-cost carrier (with an identifier of LJ/JNA) based in Seoul, South Korea, reached an agreement with Komy Co., Ltd. headquartered in Kawaguchi, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, to install KomyMirror in the overhead stowage bins for Jin Air's fleet of 22 aircraft. Jin Air just completed the mirror installation in February 2024.

Image: Jin Air (B737-800)

https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M100673/202404028877/_prw_PI1fl_4bHjp6T6.jpg

Jin Air is one of carriers that fly to Japan, alongside Korean Air and Asiana Airlines.

Komy had been inquiring with Jin Air about the feasibility of employing mirrors through Korean Air, which had already installed mirrors. However, Komy learned that Jin Air was unsure if the installation cost would be worth its benefits. But later, Jin Air made a specific request to install the mirror, and Komy and Jin Air reached this agreement.

Jin Air deployed the mirror for a few reasons. The airline found out that some passengers and cabin crew were climbing on seats or armrests to check overhead stowage bins for forgotten items. This not only causes damage to the cabin equipment but also puts them at risk of falling from a higher place.

Jin Air learned that installing the mirror would enable passengers to inspect the bottoms of overhead stowage bins even while standing on the floor, allowing other passengers to exit smoothly and without being left waiting in the aisles.

Other airlines have reported that the mirror also assists cabin crew in detecting suspicious objects in the cabin before and after boarding at an early stage.

As a result of this agreement, Komy received an order to install the mirror on 18 Boeing 737 series aircraft and four 777s. Jin Air began to install the mirror in November 2023 for completion in February 2024.

Komy recommends that carriers install its mirrors and passengers try them aboard planes.

Jin Air is a leading low-cost carrier operating in Asia, affiliated with Korean Air. It was established in January 2008. Jin Air began its services to Japan in July 2011 on the Seoul-Sapporo (Shin-Chitose) route. At present, it operates on routes from major airports in Japan to Seoul and Busan. Also, it will operate flights to Shimojishima Airport on Miyakojima island from May.

For more information about Komy's aircraft mirror, please visit: https://www.komy.com/air/shorten-aircraft-turns/application

SOURCE Komy Co., Ltd.
COLUMBIA, Mo., April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- StorageMart, a family-owned global leader in the self storage industry, announces the acquisitions of two new facilities in Greenwood, Indiana and Columbia, Missouri. StorageMart began operating facilities in Columbia in 1999 and is excited to expand in their hometown as well as the quickly growing Indianapolis market.

"We are thrilled to expand our presence in our hometown of Columbia, MO and our Indianapolis market." - Alex Burnam Post this The newest addition to the StorageMart Columbia, MO portfolio located on Creekwood Parkway. StorageMart acquires facility in Greenwood, IN, located on 994 S State Rd 135.

The new Columbia, MO facility, located at 1500 Creekwood Parkway, includes 42,200 square feet and 312 storage units with drive-up units and parking spaces tailored for vehicle storage. The Greenwood, IN facility, located at 994 S State Rd 135, includes 37,475 net rentable square feet, comprising of 238 drive-up self storage units with indoor vehicle parking, gated pin pad access, and other convenient features.

Alex Burnam, Senior Vice President of Real Estate Acquisitions at StorageMart, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to expand our presence in our hometown of Columbia, as well as in our Indianapolis market. These acquisitions reflect our ongoing dedication to meeting the evolving storage needs of our communities. We look forward to serving our customers with the same level of excellence they have come to expect from StorageMart."

The new facilities will undergo enhancements to align with StorageMart standards to ensure a clean and seamless storage experience for customers. By investing in this expansion, StorageMart reaffirms its commitment to delivering top-tier storage solutions while fostering growth and development in their local regions.

About StorageMart: As the largest privately-owned self storage company globally, StorageMart provides clean, well-lit storage units and friendly customer service. Through the "Store it Forward" charitable giving program, StorageMart actively gives back to the communities it serves. Learn more at https://www.storage-mart.com.

Contact: Sarah Little

573.449.0091

[email protected]

SOURCE StorageMart
BEIJING, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a report from China Daily:

The construction of a modern national center in Zhengzhou, Central China's Henan province, was elevated in 2023, fulfilling the city's commitment to high-quality development, according to a local government work report released in February.

Official statistics showed that the city's GDP increased by 7.4 percent year-on-year to surpass 1.36 trillion yuan ($188.6 billion) in 2023. Meanwhile, its industrial added value above designated size grew by 12.8 percent, ranking first among nine national center cities across China.

Total retail sales of consumer goods and fixed asset investment in Zhengzhou were up 7.7 percent and 6.8 percent, respectively. Also, the city's proportion of spending on research and development to GDP has outperformed the national average for two consecutive years.

In the government work report, it said 2024 is crucial for Zhengzhou to construct a modern national center. It will promote the establishment of modern industrial systems, build one of China's first demonstration zones for new industrialization and foster new quality productive forces  buzzwords used during the two sessions held in March.

In 2023, to better develop advanced manufacturing, Zhengzhou made a three-year action plan to promote 20 key industry chains and managed to sign 238 large industrial projects, with a total contract value exceeding 290 billion yuan. Projects from emerging industries accounted for 78.2 percent of this.

Moreover, the number of specialized and sophisticated businesses that produce novel and unique products reached 3,554 in the city, including 122 "little giant" companies with cutting-edge technologies. It also produced 830,000 vehicles, up 61.7 percent year-on-year, of which 316,000 were new energy vehicles.

This year, relying on leading enterprises  such as China Electrical Equipment, China Railway Engineering Equipment, Zhengzhou Coal Mining Machinery Group and Weihua Group  Zhengzhou will expand the scale of its equipment manufacturing industrial cluster and plans to sign at least five national intelligent manufacturing projects.

It also plans to attach greater importance to electronic information, striving to increase the industry's output value by more than 5 percent, with the scale of the industrial cluster reaching 700 billion yuan.

Moreover, the city is scheduled to produce more than 700,000 NEVs by the end of this year, which is expected to help increase the output value of the automobile industry by 60 percent. It will optimize the layout of algorithms, computing power and big data centers, and accelerate the construction of such projects as a new national internet exchange center and the Zhengzhou artificial intelligence computing center.

More efforts will be made by the city government to achieve self-reliance in science and technology, and enhance independent innovation capability, according to the work report.

In 2023, Zhengzhou finished building a "quantum valley", which has attracted a series of related projects and labs. It added four new national laboratories and five provincial ones, bringing the total number of these two types of lab up to 14 and 12 respectively.

It also accelerated construction of an ultrashort ultra-intense laser experimental device, one of the first large scientific devices in Henan. And it started to build a core part of a national supercomputing internet project.

China plans to build the supercomputing internet by the end of 2025 to connect powerful computers across the nation and tap into their joint power to promote innovation and socioeconomic growth, experts said.

This year, Zhengzhou is striving to become a State-level regional sci-tech innovation center by highlighting the development of platforms, subjects, environment and talents.

The city plans to introduce 10 prestigious universities and sci-tech research institutions, as well as attracting and cultivating 50 innovative and entrepreneurial teams, supporting 60 projects by young talents, and introducing 1,000 young talents with doctoral degrees or above.

Another focus in the government work report is the expansion of high-level opening-up to achieve more win-win results.

In 2023, 12 institutional innovation achievements in the Zhengzhou Area of China (Henan) Pilot Free Trade Zone were replicated and promoted nationwide. The number of registered companies in the area surpassed 90,000.

The city also became home to several international facilities including an ASEAN Center and an international cooperation center built by the local government and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization. The number of its international sister cities increased to 13 and international cities with friendly and cooperative relations grew to 34.

Zhengzhou also finished establishing an Air Silk Road in 2023, linking it with Cambodia and other ASEAN countries. It opened 15 related passenger routes, which handled more than 25 million passengers in 2023, and nine cargo routes, with a combined handling capacity of 608,000 metric tons.

This year, the city will promote high-level opening-up and strengthen the leading role of its free trade zone. The number of newly registered companies in the zone is expected to reach 15,000. Zhengzhou also plans to push forward the third phase of an airport expansion and make overall planning on the construction of a second airport.

It will launch a "freight trains plus industries" campaign and hopes to operate more than 3,000 China-Europe freight trains annually.

Other highlights of this year's work include deepening reform of State-owned enterprises and government services, improving people's livelihoods and conducting more green and low-carbon practices, according to the work report.

SOURCE China Daily
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe is facing a potentially food crisis due to the El Nino-induced drought, which the government has declared a state of disaster in a move meant to marshal resources and avert hunger.Government said the country needed at least US$2 billion to address the situation and also called for all-inclusive resource mobilisation efforts while reassuring the nation that no one would die of hunger.As such, South Africa-based tycoon Dunny Huruyadzo has taken heed of the call, pledging to fund food import initiatives in order to address the food insecurity situation in the country.Huruyadzo, who is also into mining and commodity broking, said he was also open to collaborations with foreign companies as long as it is to the benefit of the country."We have free funds which we need to invest much of it into commodity trading like food imports through approved partners," he said."We want to create partnerships with those that have the grain permits so that we help them bring grain and to Zimbabwe."We are also extending our venture into mining and petroleum where we have the urge to invest and collaborate with foreign companies."We want partnerships that benefit the country, particularly at this time when we face a drought."The World Food Programme recently said it was working with the government and aid agencies to provide food to 2,7 million people affected by drought in the country
News / National

by Staff reporter

DUBAI-based businesswoman Edith Chibhamu says there is little evidence that Zimbabweans are benefiting from the "so-called foreign investment".Chibhamu said authorities must consider engaging genuine investors who have Zimbabwean interests at heart."When President Emmerson Mnangagwa assumed office replacing the late former President Robert Mugabe there were high expectations from all sectors, particularly on the economic front," said Chibhangu."Mnangagwa declared: "We want to grow our economy, we want peace, we want jobs, jobs, jobs", and courting international investors was one of the strategies meant to address the deep economic crisis. With this vision the President needed the best team on his investment programme."We needed to mobilise investors that would bring real money into the country and allow the money to circulate inside the country. By now the country would have been in a much better state."Chibhamu, however, said the opposite was true."The calibre of investors that the country has been engaging is not as good as they appear to be," she said."For instance, we had investors who inject less than US$5 million in a project, but would realise US$100 million which they take to their countries. Most investors do not have Zimbabwe at heart since their projects do not add value to the country's economic trajectory efforts."Mnangagwa said his administration was on a re-engagement drive to boost investment to the country after years of international isolation."It is high time all Zimbabwean businesspeople joined the President in bringing real valuable investment in the country. We are ready to also help if the President will accept our investors and more," the Dubai-based businesswoman said."Zimbabwe needs real people with Zimbabwean people at heart."
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Kiev, April 12 : The Trypilska thermal power plant (TPP) outside the Ukrainian capital has been completely destroyed in a Russian missile attack, the media reported, citing an official.

Andriy Hota, Chairman of the supervisory board at the Ukrainian power plant Centrenergo, said on Thursday that a massive fire erupted in the plant's turbine room after the attack, Xinhua news agency reported.

"All the workers who were on shift during the strike are alive," Hota said, adding that efforts to extinguish the fire were underway.

Located 45 km south of Kiev, Trypilska TPP is the largest power generating facility in the Kiev region with an installed capacity of 1,800 MW.

On Thursday morning, Russia fired 42 missiles, including six Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles and 40 combat drones, said the Ukrainian Air Force, which shot down 18 missiles and 39 drones.

The Ukrainian authorities said that the attack targeted energy infrastructure facilities in five regions.
Moscow, April 12 : At least 13,000 people have been evacuated in parts of Russia as of Thursday, as multiple regions continue to battle extreme floods amid rising water levels, local authorities said.

In some of the worst flooding in decades due to a continuous rise in daily average temperatures, snowmelt and rivers thawing, Russia's western Siberia, the Volga region and the Central Federal District have been flooded.

A state of emergency has been declared in the Orenburg, Kurgan and Tyumen regions, Xinhua news agency reported.

In the worst-hit western Orenburg region, 7,800 people have been evacuated, according to the regional government, with water levels in the Ural river around the region breaking records last Thursday night.

The flooding is expected to peak in the region in the near future, the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations said.

In the Kurgan region, molre than 6,000 people have been evacuated, said regional governor Vadim Shumkov.

In the Tobol river near the region's severely affected Zverinogolovsky district, water levels have surpassed 10 metre, over one metre above the critical level, and are expected to rise above 11 metre in the near future, local media reported.

In the Tyumen region, water in the Ishim and Tobol rivers rose by 56 cm and 22 cm in one day, local authorities said on Thursday, adding that the peak of the flood is expected by April 23 to 25.
United Nations, April 12 : The UN Security Council has voiced grave concern over Israel's killing of seven aid workers of the World Central Kitchen in Gaza.

A press statement said on Thursday that these horrific attacks brought the number of humanitarian personnel killed in Gaza during the ongoing conflict to at least 224, more than three times as many humanitarian aid workers killed in any single conflict recorded in a single year, Xinhua news agency reported.

The council members stressed the need for accountability for all of these incidents and noted that Israel has announced the initial results of an investigation into the incident, stressing the need for a full, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the incident that is fully publicised.

The council members also demanded that all parties to the conflict fully respect the protected status of humanitarian workers, facilities, and operations under international law, abide by humanitarian notification and deconfliction mechanisms, and immediately fix any deficiencies in these mechanisms.

They reiterated their deep concern over the human toll of the conflict, the catastrophic humanitarian situation, and the threat of imminent famine in Gaza, and called for the immediate lifting of all barriers to the delivery of humanitarian aid at scale to the civilian population and to the unhindered distribution of such assistance.
United Nations, April 12 : The UN Fact-Finding Mission in Sudan reports that nearly a year of fighting in the country has left thousands of civilians dead and millions more displaced, a UN spokesman said.

"It said that fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has killed thousands of civilians since it began in April last year," said Stephane Dujarric, Chief Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, on Thursday.

"Over six million people have been displaced internally, while almost two million refugees have fled to neighbouring countries. Nearly 24 million people need aid," the spokesman added as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

April 15 marks the widespread conflict's first anniversary.

Dujarric said France, Germany and the European Union will co-host a Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and its Neighbours in Paris on Monday.

He added that Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Joyce Msuya, will attend alongside other UN officials and advocate for scaled-up resources to expand aid operations in Sudan and the region.

Msuya will also advocate for improved humanitarian access so that agencies can ensure the timely delivery of life-saving supplies to communities in need.

The spokesman said the Secretary-General will have a video message for the conference.

Sudan has been engulfed in violent clashes between the SAF and the RSF since April 15, 2023. The violence has killed thousands of civilians, displaced millions more, and destroyed much of the country's infrastructure, especially in the capital of Khartoum.
Jerusalem, April 12 : Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has vowed an "appropriate response" if Iran attacks his country's territory.

"A direct Iranian attack on Israeli territory will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant told US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Thursday during a phone conversation on preparations for a possible Iranian retaliatory attack, Xinhua news agency reported.

During the conversation, Gallant detailed the Israeli preparations and emphasised that Israel "will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory".

It was the second time the two officials had talked over the past week.

The US Intelligence officials have assessed that Iran could launch a counter-attack soon in response to the killing of seven Iranians in an Israeli airstrike on Iran's consulate in Syria on April 1.

Earlier on Thursday, Commander of the US Central Command Michael Kurilla arrived in Israel for talks with Gallant and Herzi Halevi, the Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, to coordinate responses to a potential Iranian attack.
London, April 12 : Actress Imelda Staunton, who played the monarch in the series 'The Crown' for the final two seasons of the royal drama, shared that she still wears Queen Elizabeth's clothes from the show in her everyday life.

Talking about how she keeps wearing Elizabeth's clothes from the show, she was quoted by The Sun as saying,: "It was quite a serious job and quite a serious responsibility carrying all that stuff.

"I finished doing that last May and June and shaking that off -- so now I can be up and funny -- it's just taken me that time. I was doing it day in, day out. I knew in 2019 I was doing it, and I started in 2021, so it was a long time. Four years of her in my head.

"The work that went in, you can see it on the screen, every detail from the set to the costumes. I'm wearing one of her shirts now," she added.

Staunton said at a charity event in Brighton while wearing one of the blouses she used to play Elizabeth, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

With her portrayal as the monarch, who died aged 96 in September 2022, Staunton earned her Best Actress nominations from the British Academy Television and Golden Globe awards.

Despite being appreciated, several royal commentators had hit out at her portrayal.
Los Angeles, April 12 : Actor Daniel Radcliffe has stated that he was "deathly afraid" of Alan Rickman's character, Professor Severus Snape, who taught potions at Hogwarts.

"I was so intimidated by Alan Rickman. How can you not be by that voice? Even hearing that voice, you forget quite how low it was until it echoes through you," Radcliffe said on the 'Happy Sad Confused' podcast, reports deadline.com.

"I was so intimidated by him for the first three movies. I was terrified by him and was like, 'This guy hates me'," he added.

The actor who portrayed 'Harry Potter' then watched an interview in which Rickman discussed him and the rest of the young 'Harry Potter' stars before his death.

In it, Rickman reflected on the "huge pride" he felt for Radcliffe succeeding on Broadway at the time and the pressure that the young actors faced from an early age.

"He cut short a vacation in Canada to come and see me in Equus. He saw every piece of stage work I did when he was alive," Radcliffe said.

The actor added: "He would take me out afterwards, and we would talk about it."
Kanpur, April 12 : A case has been registered against ten social media users, posing as journalists, at the Gujaini police station in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur, said officials on Friday.

The case was registered against these X users under sections 153-A, 505 (1) and 505 (2) of FIR number 103/2024 for posting misleading posts by posing as journalists.

The 10 X users mentioned in the FIR are GK News, Yuva Josh Nai Soch, Shivangi Mishra Panditain, NDT Today, Dr. Hridayesh Mishra, Sachin Pandit Advocate Modi's Family, Krishna Yadav Kaju, Abhimanyu Sharma, Ankit Tiwari 100FB and respectively.

These X users are accused of posting a video claiming that the police "locked a boy in a room and beat him" in Kanpur.

The police were accused of beating the boy. The police spokesman said that the post made by these people was misleading.
Alfonso Chardy, a retired Miami Herald and el Nuevo Herald reporter whose dogged pursuit of difficult stories in an illustrious four-decade career ranged widely from national political scandal in Washington to conflicts and disasters in the Middle East, the Caribbean and Latin America, helping the newspaper win several Pulitzer Prizes, has died at 72.

Chardy died April 9 at Mercy Hospital of a heart attack, his wife, lawyer and journalist Siobhan Morrissey, said.

The Mexican-born Chardy, who spoke and wrote in Spanish, English and French, awed his colleagues  and often the subjects of his stories  with his meticulous attention to fact and detail, voluminous note-taking and record-keeping, and a deep well of sources that spanned the world.

But he was known also for an ever-ready smile, an unflappable temperament and unassuming demeanor, an ego-less willingness to pitch in to help other reporters on stories large and small, and a quirky sense of humor that lightened the stress of many a deadline.

Often, amid the scramble of a breaking story or a crushing deadline, a cool, smiling Chardy would shrug and utter the mantra that came to define him to his Herald colleagues. Relax, he would say: Its only news.

But the humor concealed a relentless dedication that could mean long hours grinding away at stories and challenging sources and story subjects to get at the truth, Morrissey and Herald colleagues recalled.

Chardy was a reporting machine, said Mark Seibel, a Washington Post editor who was Chardys editor at the Herald in the 1980s, when he served as the newspapers Washington correspondent and helped break open the Iran-Contra scandal during President Ronald Reagans second term. He should be remembered as the quintessential Washington correspondent.

Chardys reporting helped expose the central role played by U.S. Marine Col. Oliver North and Vice President George Bush in a secret program that sold weapons to the Iranian fundamentalist regime and illegally laundered proceeds to support the anti-Sandinista Contra rebels in Nicaragua. His stories were key in winning a Miami Herald reporting team the Pulitzer Prize for national news coverage in 1987.

In June 1985, Al was the first reporter to draw the connection between Oliver North and the private aid the Contras received, Morrissey said. Al had developed an extensive list of sources, including two who met him for breakfast one Saturday and confirmed the Vice Presidents office had been coordinating the resupply effort in conjunction with Oliver North.

North tried unsuccessfully to stop the publication of the article. He threatened that Al would never be allowed to visit Contra bases or travel with their units.

The pressure at times was so intense that Chardy felt he was being watched in his Washington apartment, and that was one of the reasons he kept his Mexican citizenship as a shield until after he retired in 2017, Morrissey said. He was also fearful that becoming an American citizen could make him a target for foreign governments irked by his reporting abroad.

Although Chardy wrote most of the Iran-Contra stories that earned the Pulitzer for the Herald, he always said it was a team effort, Morrissey recalled. In subsequent years at the newspaper, he collaborated on news coverage that contributed to three more Pulitzers for the newspaper.

Chardy, who had launched his career at the Mexico City News, the Associated Press and United Press International before joining the Herald, went on to become the newspapers Middle East correspondent in 1989, based in Jerusalem. After returning to One Herald Plaza as a Miami-based correspondent, Chardy covered numerous events of international import, including earthquakes in Haiti and Mexico and the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo in Argentina who protested the disappearance of their children during the countrys years of dictatorship.

His birth name was Alfonso Chardi Nieto, but his professional byline was Alfonso Chardy because his first editor at the Mexico City News misspelled his last name, and he did not have the nerve at the time to correct it, Morrissey said.

Thanks to his Mexican passport, Chardy was able to visit Cuba for stories when U.S. journalists were routinely blocked. But his reporting from Cuba eventually got under the regimes skin. One day, on Chardys arrival at the airport in Havana, an official recognized him, placing his fingers over his eyes to indicate that the journalists bushy eyebrows gave him away. He put Chardy on the next plane back to Miami.

Alfonso Chardy, reporter and editor of the Miami Herald, died in Miami on April 9. His colleagues highlight his tenacity in pursuing the story, his professionalism and his role in achieving a scoop in the Iran Contras scandal, which earned the Miami Herald a Pulitzer Prize in 1987.

Alfonso was the gold standard for a journalist, said retired Herald reporter Juan Tamayo, who preceded Chardy as the Heralds correspondent in Jerusalem. He knew everybody, had their phone numbers and most importantly their trust, listened to what they had to say, had an amazing memory and then was able to put together the information he had gathered into one cogent story.

When terrorists struck the World Trade Center and other U.S. targets in 2001, Chardy again tapped his sources to confirm the attackers identities. He quickly also ran down that many of them had lived and trained for the attacks in South Florida, recalled Curtis Morgan, a Herald senior editor who as a reporter at the time sat next to Chardy.

Chardy mentioned knowing some intelligence contact in some foreign city, Morgan said in a note to Herald colleagues. Not long after, he casually informed me that he had confirmed that Mohamed Atta was one of the terrorists. As the hours and days rolled on, he also nailed down the names and travels and addresses of a bunch of the others as well  essential info that put us way ahead of the pack on reporting.

After the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, which claimed some 300,000 lives, Chardy set out to confirm first-hand whether such a high toll was possible in response to an editors skeptical questions, said Jacqueline Charles, the Heralds longtime Haiti and Caribbean correspondent.

I got a call from someone asking me who is this strange Miami Herald guy trolling the parking lot of the governments construction company measuring and counting the trucks and asking all of these strange questions, Charles wrote in a note to colleagues. See, in order to figure out if indeed there were 300K plus dead, Chardy didnt ask for the log books. Instead he investigated, by determining how many corpses each truck can hold and how many trips each truck made over how many hours to the mass burial sites. This is Chardy.

Chardys Angels in El Herald

Chardy came to the new El Herald, the Spanish-language sister publication to the Miami Herald, in the early 1980s, after having been in charge of covering the 1980 Mariel exodus from Cuba for the Associated Press.

Chardy played a key role in establishing El Herald, later re-named el Nuevo Herald, as an important source of news for Spanish speakers, said Roberto Fabricio, the newspapers former editor, who hired him as a reporter and soon promoted Chardy to local news editor.

He led a team of young female reporters who became known, jokingly, as Chardys Angels and would go on to distinguished careers themselves. Among them were Fabiola Santiago, today a Miami Herald columnist, and journalists Liz Balmaseda, Nery Ynclan and Lourdes Meluza.

Fabiola Santiago, Nery Ynclan, Liz Balmaseda and Jay Ducassi in 1982 in the Herald. Alfonso Chardy was its editor. We used to call ourselves Chardys Angels and Jay Ducassi was Bossley, Santiago said.

But Chardy yearned to return to reporting, Fabricio said.

He was a reporter at heart. After a big earthquake in Mexico City, he insisted on going and was the first Herald person on the ground, Fabricio recalled. He eventually was able to find his family and stayed with them. He filed stories while large aftershocks were still knocking down buildings.

Chardy, who typed with two index fingers and when he got tired only used one, sometimes produced two or three stories a day, recalled Miami Herald editor Jay Ducassi, who worked under Chardys supervision when he joined the Herald in Spanish as a reporter in 1981.

You could ask him for a difficult story and have it ready in two hours, said Ducassi, who years later became Chardys editor.

A wealth of journalistic sources

An anecdote from 1991 illustrates Chardys keen ability to cultivate sources. Rumors began to circulate that Nelson Mandela was planning a trip to Cuba to thank Fidel Castro for his support during his imprisonment in South Africa, said Ducassi, who asked Chardy to verify it.

Let me check with my sources at the African National Congress in Johannesburg, Chardy told him, and Ducassi thought he was joking. He wasnt. Chardy had a long list of ANC sources from his days in Washington.

Shortly afterward he had confirmation and a front-page story on Mandelas planned trip to Cuba, which took place on July 25, 1991.

Herald photojournalist Jose Iglesias, who shared numerous assignments with Chardy, including covering the 2010 Haiti earthquake, noted his patient, determined equanimity in difficult moments.

Reporter Alfonso Chardy searching for sources in Cartagena, Colombia, in April 2012.

He was very methodical in his work, checking details three times, and asking the same question to several sources, said Iglesias, who was also with Chardy in Cartagena, Colombia, when another scandal broke during the Summit of the Americas in 2012.

President Obamas bodyguards had hired prostitutes, and Chardy and Iglesias went to investigate at a club where sex professionals worked.

Chardy didnt leave until he was able to interview at least three, Iglesias recalled.

In later years, as the Herald closed its bureaus and cut back on foreign reporting, Chardy was reassigned to a local beat, transportation  which he took to with characteristic relish.

Chardy had studied engineering in Mexico, opted instead for journalism, but retained a lifelong interest in technology and science. He was an early adopter of devices like the Palm Pilot, and at times had three of them wired together at his desk to record interviews and download records and data.

Chardy dove into the details of highways and transportation projects with the same thoroughness he had brought to international affairs, and he was pleasantly if wryly surprised by the strong response from readers.

They care much more about traffic than about Oliver North! he exclaimed to a colleague.

Chardys curiosity ranged well beyond daily journalism to basic philosophical questions like why are we here, Morrissey said. And he loved cats, she added.

One of his last stories before retiring from the Herald was the case of a Colombian immigrant arrested in Miami when he was dropping his daughter off at school, for violating a deportation order. The event shocked the community and sparked protests in front of the Krome Detention Center in November 2016.

After so many hard-news stories, he did not lose sight of the human side of the story. To the end, colleagues said, Al Chardy deployed the best gift a journalist could have  the ability to put himself in other peoples shoes.

Chardy was always worldly in the most humble way, wrote Herald photographer Carl Juste to colleagues. Part nutty professor, curious investigator, and a kind heart  a combination that is rare in journalism.
Munawar shares selfie of three different moods with Shehnaaz, Avneet from IPL match. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, April 13 : 'Bigg Boss 17' winner Munawar Faruqui attended the Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru and shared a picture featuring 'three different moods'.

Munawar took to Instagram stories and shared a selfie with actresses Shehnaaz Gill and Avneet Kaur.

In the image, Shehnaaz is seen smiling, but Munawar and Avneet were seen flashing their pearly-white teeth as they smiled ear-to-ear.

Munawar captioned the image: "3 different moods in one pic."

On the acting front, Munawar is all set to make his debut, having just announced his web show 'First Copy', which is based on piracy and DVDs.

Munawar, who is portraying a gray character from the world of piracy, said: "Over the years, my fans have always stood by me and supported me in everything I have done."

He added: "Hence, I wanted to present them with a special gift this year by announcing this project where they'll witness a new side of me. I'm eager to see everyone's response to it."

Written and directed by Farhan P. Zamma, the show is produced by Kurji Productions and co-produced by Salt Media.
New Delhi, April 12 : Going bar hopping across Delhi, from celebrity bartender Yangdup Lama and Meenakshi Singh's Sidecar to KiKi, Lair and Hoots', is like any other working night for multiple award-winning Japanese mixologist Shingo Gokan.

Shingo San, as the soft-spoken Japanese sensei and bar entrepreneur is lovingly known, has already spent more than 100 days outside his rented Tokyo apartment this year -- and we are not even near the half-way point of 2024.

And if he seems to love his punishing schedule, which reminded a fellow bartender of George Clooney's character in 'Up In The Air', it is because of the pleasure of discovery.

Like, tasting for himself how cilantro ('dhania') can add a new flavour profile to the traditionally chilli-infused tequila cocktail Picante. Or, what could make raw mango, which we use to make aam panna, pickles and chutneys, an ally of bartenders searching for new flavours to surprise their regulars.

In the national capital to promote the Toki Suntory Whisky, a blended whisky that combines the strengths of the Japanese conglomerate's three distilleries -- Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita -- Shingo San said "India has the potential to become one of the most important bar markets in the world" because of its rich food culture.

Shingo San got to sample this food culture when he had dinner at the much-acclaimed Indian Accent restaurant.

"Making drinks is all about the food culture of a nation," he said, pointing out that India's "food diversity" makes it the ideal tasting lab for mixologists, who are now better known as 'bar chefs'.

To give the city's bartenders a taste of his Indian twist to his signature 'Tokyo-Okinawa-New York City' cocktails, Shingo San created a 'Tokyo, Okinawa-New Delhi' version with Suntory's Haku vodka, Colombian coffee beans roasted in Japan, ripe mangoes sourced locally, plus cinnamon, green and black cardamom, and star anise. It turned out to be an explosion of flavours you wouldn't find getting married so seamlessly in Indian bars.

By July, Shingo will have 11 bars spread across Tokyo, Okinawa, Shanghai and New York City, but he now spends more time giving back to society what he feels he owes to it by popularising Japanese heritage products internationally.

The cause he has chosen for himself is to save the age-old tradition of producing black sugar, a kind of jaggery, that is facing certain death in the eight remote islands off Okinawa where they are produced. Apparently, there are no takers for this product, so Shingo San fears -- and so does the Japanese government -- that the island's residents will just abandon their homes.

To create a market for black sugar, which, incidentally, is slightly salty because of the sea's influence, Shingo San has created a liqueur named 'Kokuto' (which is the Japanese term for Okinawan 'black sugar'). The liqueur is now served on the first and business classes of all Japan Airlines flights.

It may be a little step but it does open up plenty of possibilities for the struggling producers of black sugar. So, here's a mixologist who gets his high out of extending a helping hand to those who need it the most.

(Sourish Bhattacharya can be contacted at sourish.b@ians.in)
Mumbai, April 12 : Maharashtra's Relief and Rehabilitation department has ordered panchnama (on-the-spot assessment) of crops hit by unseasonal rains and hailstorms in about 11 districts in the state.

The badly affected crops of jawar, wheat, mangoes, oranges, bananas and Rabi are spread over 50,000 hectares of land in Nagpur, Amravati, Akola, Yavatmal, Washim; Vidarbha region and Parbhani, Beed, Nanded, Latur, Dharashiv and Hingoli from the Marathwada region.

The weather bureau has predicted unseasonal rains and hailstorms for two more days which has been a cause of worry for the farmers.

State Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde said the district administration has been asked to early complete the panchnama and submit reports suggesting the financial assistance to be given by the government.

The minister admitted that due to model code of conduct, there are curbs on the relief and rehabilitation department to declare the financial aid. However, the government will initiate the action to provide relief to the farmers, he assured.

The department's directives are crucial as amid the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, the opposition Shiv Sena UBT, NCP SP and Congress have targeted the MahaYuti government for the damage to crops and the subsequent loss incurred by the farmers.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has countered the opposition's move by making it clear that the government will provide all the necessary assistance to the farmers affected by nature's fury.

In Amravati district alone, Rabi crops and fruits including oranges, mangoes, bananas, spread over 40,000 hectares were severely damaged. In the adjoining Akola, crops spread over more than 4,060 hectares in 74 villages were hit.

In Buldhana, crops spread over 3,500 hectares from 100 villages were affected.

NCP(SP) has slammed the BJP on the farmers' distress, saying that the party has now divided the farmers into which party they are associated with.

"aBJP is approaching farmers only to seek votes but they will not allow such an insensitive government to continue," the NCP(SP) said.
Mumbai, April 12 : Nationalist Congress Party (SP) state President Jayant Patil on Friday said that the rival Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party made attempts to lure Sharad Pawar on its side, but failed.

Patil said that Sharad Pawar did not compromise on his ideology and principles and hence he would never side with the Bharatiya Janata Party or the ruling MahaYuti.

"They tried a lot to take him (Sharad Pawar). But he has always been clear on his ideological principles and would never support the BJP. Despite the claims by the (rival) NCP, has anybody gone there," asked Patil.

On the BJP's claims that the NCP (SP) is a "fake", Patil laughed and said it was strange that first they break a party and then call the original party a fake, as they did with the (undivided) Shiv Sena which split in June 2022, followed by the (undivided) NCP that broke up in July 2023.

In this context, he referred to certain statements made by (ruling) Shiv Sena MP Gajanand Kirtikar's claims about why the party broke up, and said the people must take cognisance of the same.

Patil's statements came after NCP's Working President Praful Patel, MP, claimed that in July 2023, Sharad Pawar was "50 per cent" prepared to extend support to the BJP after his nephew Ajit Pawar split the party to join the ruling MahaYuti government.

However, Sharad Pawar dithered at the last minute and it did not materialise, contended Patel.

He added that while Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy CM on July 2, 2023, a fortnight later, the breakaway faction leaders met Sharad Pawar in Mumbai and Pune, but the latter was reluctant at the last minute.

Top NCP (SP) leaders, including Sharad Pawar, Jayant Patil, Clyde Crasto, Mahesh Tapase and others, dismissed Patel's statements as "blatant lies" terming it as a deliberate attempt by the rival NCP leader to sow confusion in the minds of the people ahead of the Lok Sabha 2024 elections.

The NCP (SP) has cautioned that the people of the state are observing all these things very closely and as the polls approach, the party remains committed to public welfare under Sharad Pawar Saheb's leadership and "the voters will choose wisely", Patil said.
New Delhi, April 12 : India secured the third position globally in terms of funding raised for the fintech sector in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, a report showed on Friday.

Total funding received by the fintech sector increased by 59 per cent in Q1 2024, compared to Q4 2023, emphasising the robustness of the Indian fintech landscape amid a dynamic economic environment.

Q1 2024 witnessed a total funding of $551 million compared to the $346 million raised in the previous quarter, according to the report by Tracxn, a leading market intelligence platform.

Bengaluru led the funding in the Indian fintech space, followed by Mumbai and Hyderabad.

"The sustained investor interest emphasises the importance of nurturing startups and R&D, aligning with the 'Startup India' Initiative. This surge reflects the industry's dynamism and innovation, positioning India as a leading global fintech player," said Neha Singh, co-founder of Tracxn.

Peak XV Partners, Y Combinator, and LetsVenture emerged as the leading investors in the sector.

The fintech growth as the Indian economy exhibited a robust performance in the previous quarter, with a growth rate of 8.4 per cent.

According to the IMF, India will become the third-largest economy in the world by 2027, with a GDP of over $5 trillion.
New Delhi, April 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said his government is committed to fighting corruption even as the opposition is crying foul over actions taken by the central agencies.

In an exclusive interview with Hindustan, PM Modi said that "any level of corruption impacts the people of India and action against those who steal money meant for people's welfare will not end".

The Prime Minister's statement comes amid the opposition's chorus against the action of the Central agencies in several cases of corruption.

The opposition's INDIA bloc recently held a rally in the national capital to protest against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the alleged liquor excise scam case. The opposition has also been raising the flag in the former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's arrest case. In West Bengal, the agencies have come under direct attack from the ruling Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

PM Modi said in the interview, "Those who see benefits in a corrupt system are the ones who are crying foul and presenting the wrong picture in front of the people."

In the interview, he highlighted his government's record on development and social welfare. He also referred to the achievements such as the abrogation of Article 370 in J&K and the Ram Temple inauguration.

He also expressed confidence that the BJP will win a historic third term in the Lok Sabha elections.

"What you have witnessed in the last 10 years is just the trailer. A lot more work has to be done," said the Prime Minister.

Hailing the government's achievements on the economic and foreign policy fronts, the PM said. "People of this country are taking note of the fact that India is the fifth largest and the fastest growing economy in the world. The third largest startup ecosystem of the world is in India."

He said the whole world was discussing the country's space missions, the Make in India campaign, and the unprecedented speed of infrastructure development.

In the interview, the PM drew a contrast between the BJP model and the Congress model, and said that "the former strengthened the country, the latter was focussed on the family".

He said it was the first time that the people had an opportunity to compare the BJP model and the Congress model.

"The Congress ruled the country with full majority for 5-6 decades. In comparison, the BJP has served with absolute majority for only one decade. When they had full majority governments, all they did was strengthen their family. Today, when we have a majority government, our priority is to strengthen the country -- villages, the poor, our farmers, and the middle-class society."

The Prime Minister said the world was witnessing the difference between the two models.
Mumbai, April 12 : Ankit Bathla, who plays a cop in the show 'Savdhaan India-Apni Khaki', said it is emotionally very challenging for him to play intense scenes on screen, adding that he starts to feel the victim's pain in real life and gets emotional.

Mumbai, April 12 (IANS) Ankit Bathla, who plays a cop in the show 'Savdhaan India-Apni Khaki', said it is emotionally very challenging for him to play intense scenes on screen, adding that he starts to feel the victimas pain in real life and gets emotional.

Ankit plays the character of Inspector Shiva Agnihotri in the crime show.

The actor, who is known for his work in 'Naagin 4', said: "Sometimes when there's a character in front of me and it's a criminal, and when I get to know the story, or they're confessing, I won't deny, I actually feel so angry and my blood literally boils. We just did a story where they killed an eight-month-old baby for fake family pride, and I actually got tears in my eyes."

"So, it is emotionally very draining, but once the uniform is off and Ankit Bathla comes back to life, I go back home, sit for meditation, and my only prayer is that we end crime, which is quite in sync with what Shiva Agnihotri wants in his life," he shared.

Ankit also shared that playing a cop on screen is very challenging for him because it comes with a lot of responsibility.

"A lot of people are looking up to you. You can't be saying things that are not right, you can't be doing things that are not right, and there's also a certain protocol that the police officers follow," said the 'Maddam Sir' actor.

Talking about the shoot, Ankit added: "We have gone through the training, which is part of the preparation for the character, and I think it is so extremely important to be fit because there's so much action that we do every day, so much running that we do every day, and this is probably the first time that I have been in the sun almost throughout the day, shooting, which has not been an easy experience, but I have learned it over time, and honestly, the pride that it gets when we wear the character on beats every bit of the trouble."
Chandigarh, April 12 : The Punjab Police have arrested an associate of the Jaipal Bhullar gang and seized three kg heroin and two pistols.

"In a major blow to trans-border drug smuggling networks in Punjab, the Jalandhar Commissionerate Police have arrested an associate of the Jaipal Bhullar gang and seized three kg heroin and two pistols," Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav posted on X.

Investigations reveal the racket was sourcing heroin across the border from Pakistan.

A first information report (FIR) under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered and investigations were on to establish backward and forward linkages, he added.

Earlier, Jalandhar Police on March 31 averted targeted killings with the arrest of four operatives of the Prema Lahoriya-Vicky Gounder gang after an exchange of fire in Jalandhar.

The accused have been identified Naveeen Saini, Neeraj Kapoor, Kishan Bali and Vinod Joshi, all residents of Jalandhar.

Police said the six .32-bore pistols and 26 cartridges were seized during the operation.

Harjinder Singh Bhullar, alias Vicky Gounder, and his aide Prema Lahoriya, were shot dead in an encounter with the police on the Punjab-Rajasthan border in January 2018.
Bengaluru, April 12 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and his accomplice Abdul Matheen Taha from a hideout in West Bengal in connection with the Bengaluru cafe blast case.

After gathering inputs about their movements in Assam and West Bengal, the NIA arrested the accused, carrying Rs 10 lakh cash award.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib a.k.a. Shazeb, 30, is a resident of Thirthahalli town in Karnataka's Shivamogga district.

His other accomplices are Mohammand Junai Hussain and Mohammed Juned Sayed.

The NIA took over the case on March 3 and identified the main accused, Mussavir, who had carried out the blast.

Another conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taahaa a.k.a. Matheen a.k.a. Taha a.k.a. Vignesh. D a.k.a. Sumit., is also wanted in other cases.

Shazib has been using the forged driving license in the name of Mohammed Juned Sayed or other similar forged ID documents to conceal his identity. The accused has been using Hindu identity documents, forged Aadhaar in the name of Vignesh, or other similar forged ID documents to conceal identity.

Earlier, the NIA had announced the arrest of Muzamil Shareef, a key conspirator in the cafe blast case.

The probe has revealed that Shareef extended logistic support to the other two identified accused in the case, involved in an IED explosion in the cafe located at ITPL Road, Brookfield in Bengaluru on March 1.

Several staff members were injured, some of them grievously, in the blast, which also caused extensive damage to the cafe's property.
Lucknow, April 12 : Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati has tweaked her policy while selecting candidates for the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh.

Instead of fielding Muslims on seats having a dominant Muslim population in western UP, she has now fielded candidates belonging to non-Muslim communities.

The Lok Sabha seats in UP going to the polls in the first phase include Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Bijnore, Kairana, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar and Saharanpur.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP had won seven of these seats and had lost only Bijnore to the BSP, which had then contested the elections in alliance with the SP.

Interestingly, Muslims hold a sizable presence in at least six constituencies out of the eight seats that will go to the polls in the first phase. Both SP and BSP had fielded Muslim candidates from these seats in the past elections.

This time, however, Mayawati has chosen not only to field non-Muslim candidates from five of these seats, which include Kairana, Baghpat, Bijnore, Meerut and Muzaffarnagar, but also kept the seat-wise caste arithmetic in mind while selecting its nominees.

Incidentally, the SP, barring the Kairana seat, has also fielded non-Muslim candidates on the remaining four seats.

In Muzaffarnagar, where the Muslims form around 30 per cent of the electorate, the BSP has fielded Dara Singh Prajapati, an OBC hoping to corner the votes of his community as well as the party's traditional Dalit community.

Prajapati, if he manages to get the support of the OBCs, may dent the base of BJP's Sanjeev Baliyan.

In Bijnore seat, where Muslims form around 40 per cent of the electorate, the BSP has fielded Bijender Singh, a 'Jat'.

Since the RLD, which is BJP's alliance partner, has fielded Chandan Chauhan, a 'Gujjar', Singh is expected to bag a sizable number of Jat votes.

Similarly, in Meerut, the BSP has fielded Deovrat Tyagi, a Brahmin against BJP's Arun Govil, who played Lord Rama in the serial 'Ramayana'. The BSP nominee is banking on the support of 50,000 'Tyagi' voters in Meerut.

In Baghpat also, where Muslims form around 26 per cent of the electorate, the BSP has fielded Praveen Bansal, who belongs to the 'Bania' community, which had been BJP's traditional voters.

Similarly, in Kairana also, the BSP has fielded Shripal Singh Rana, who hails from 'Thakur' community. BJP's prospects may be hit here if Rana manages to get the support of his community voters.
A British Airways flight attendant was removed from a 2,000-a-night Maldives hotel and ordered to fly home following a drunken row with staff and other guests.

The airline is investigating the incident which reportedly saw the member of staff screaming and screeching all night long with her two guests after enjoying their all-inclusive drinks package.

The Sun reported how a fight broke out when the trio were confronted about their behaviour and made aware of complaints made by other hotel guests.

There was a lot of pushing and shoving, then fists were flying. Onlookers got involved as they tried to break it up. It was the last straw for the hotel. BA was informed and the stewardess was ordered home, a source told The Sun.

The employee in question had arrived from Heathrow into the capital Male last week and was staying at the Oblu Xperience Ailafushi with several other crew members.

The stewardess was staying at the Oblu Xperience Ailafushi in the Maldives (Oblu Xperience Ailafushi)

She was also reportedly staying with her daughter and a friend, who had used staff travel perks to take advantage of discounted prices.

Following the row, hotel staff then contacted the airline and threatened to remove the entire crew who were staying there from the hotel.

The stewardess then returned to Heathrow last Wednesday, with her daughter and friend flying back the next day.

A BA spokesperson told The Independent: We are investigating the matter.

British Airways rules make clear that employees are responsible for the behaviour of other passengers travelling under their name.

The dramatic events come as BA celebrated 50 years of flying on April 1. The carrier was created from British European Airways and intercontinental airline BOAC, plus two smaller operators: Cambrian Airways and Northeast Air.

Since then, it has grown to become one of the UKs most popular airlines and remains formidably profitable, retaining the majority of the slots at London Heathrow airport.
New Delhi, April 12 : Sara Ali Khan, a dazzling sensation among Gen Z, known not only for her Bollywood prowess but also for openly sharing her life journey is now the face of the feminine hygiene brand Sofy. In a light-hearted mood, Sara tells IANSlife during a conversation that some of her hits and favourite songs, such as Aankh Maare, Chaka Chak, and Ha Mei Galat, were shot during her menstrual cycle days.

Read excerpt: New Delhi, April 12 (IANSlife) Sara Ali Khan, a dazzling sensation among Gen Z, known not only for her Bollywood prowess but also for openly sharing her life journey is now the face of the feminine hygiene brand Sofy. In a light-hearted mood, Sara tells IANSlife during a conversation that some of her hits and favourite songs, such as Aankh Maare, Chaka Chak, and Ha Mei Galat, were shot during her menstrual cycle days.

Read excerpt:

What are your thoughts about PMS? What is PMS for you?

Sara: Personally, itas the intense moodiness, bloating, and ice cream cravings. I experience pangs of sugar cravings, which are, of course, due to magnesium deficiency. You should try Paalak, which is not particularly tasty, but it helps.

What would you change about the way society treats menstruation? Is there a myth about periods that you believe should be debunked?

Sara: First and foremost, it is critical to understand that menstruation is not an indicator of impurity. I believe it represents the pinnacle of femininity and fertility. I am thrilled to be associated with a brand that not only understands the needs of young girls but also educates and empowers others. Menstruation is the reason for everyone's existence.

Do you ever miss your workout?

Sara: I try not to miss my workout any day. I exercise daily, even when I am on my period, as it boosts my mood and helps with pain relief. I incorporate light cardio and yoga during my period days.

Do you prefer XL pads or antibacterial napkins?

Sara: I prefer both, which is why I carry the Sofy Anti-Bacterial extra-large pads in my bag, which provide spotless and comfortable periods. I prefer feminine hygiene brands that avoid the risk of leakage and are safe for health.

Any experience with unusual places where you had to change your pad or tampons?

Sara: I remember once we were travelling in Rajasthan for the shoot. So, I had to change my pad on the moving bus in the outskirts of Rajasthan. I usually carry an extra-large anti-bacterial pad to ensure a comfortable experience during periods.

Have you ever used a creative excuse to get out of a situation because of a period?

Sara: I used to do that a lot in school during Hindi class, by using the excuse of cramps. I liked Hindi but didn't enjoy the class.

What advice would you give to women dealing with PCOD and PCOS?

Sara: Firstly, recognize the syndrome to make sure you are aware of the changes in the body, which may include weight loss and hair loss. Exercise regularly to minimize symptoms. Try to avoid binge eating and strive to live a healthier lifestyle. And, not to forget, remind yourself that the next day will be better.

Are there any period-related mishaps or memorable incidents you'd like to share with the audience?

Sara: I'm sharing this today because all of my hits and favourite songs, such as Aankh Maare, Chaka Chak, and Ha Mei Galat, were shot during my period days.

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in
Gandhinagar, April 12 : In the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Congress party has fielded Sonal Patel, a seasoned political figure and former Gujarat Mahila Congress President, to contest from the high-profile Gandhinagar constituency against the incumbent MP, Union Home Minister Amit Shah of the BJP.

This strategic decision comes after Congress candidate CJ Chavda's defeat in the 2019 elections, where HM Shah triumphed by a margin of 5.57 lakh votes.

Sonal Patel, 62, an architect and town planner by profession, has a long history with the Congress party, having led its women's wing and contested the 2022 Assembly elections from Naranpura, albeit unsuccessfully against the BJP's Jitendra Patel.

She is also the daughter of the late Raman Patel, a veteran Congress leader, and currently serves as Secretary of the All India Congress Committee, overseeing Mumbai and Western Maharashtra.

The Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency, one of Gujarat's 26 parliamentary seats, holds a special status as the political epicentre of the state, which is also its capital.

Established in 1967, it has been a platform for several prominent leaders including former Prime Minister, late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Deputy Prime Minister, LK Advani, and now Home Minister, Amit Shah.

The seat's first Member of Parliament was Somchandbhai Solanki from the Congress. He was re-elected in 1971 while representing the Congress (Organisation).

The political landscape shifted in 1977 when Purushottam Mavalankar of the Janata Party, son of the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar, won the seat.

He was succeeded by Amrit Mohanlal Patel of the Congress in 1980, and later by IG Patel in 1984.

Since 1989, the constituency has largely been a stronghold of the BJP, starting with Shankersinh Vaghela's victory that year.

Senior leader Advani took over in 1991, followed by a significant moment in 1996 when Atal Bihari Vajpayee won but soon resigned to represent Lucknow, leading to a bye-election victory for Vijay Patel over film actor Rajesh Khanna of the Congress.

Gandhinagar has been distinguished by its high-profile representatives, including a Prime Minister and two Home Ministers, making it one of the most prestigious and closely-watched parliamentary constituencies in India.
Kolkata, April 12 : A political slugfest has erupted in West Bengal over the arrests of two accused in the Bengaluru cafe blast case as Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Mateen Taha hail from Kanthi in the East Midnapore district of the state.

The two were arrested by the NIA on Friday.

The slugfest has been kicked off by the BJP's information technology chief and the party's central observer for West Bengal Amit Malviya, who has claimed that the development reveals how West Bengal is becoming a haven for terrorists.

"NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cells in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists, Malviya said in a message posted on his official X handle.

However, Malviya's comments were countered in an official statement issued by the West Bengal Police soon after his TX post went viral.

"Contrary to the claims made by Amit Malviya, the fact is that two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the central intelligence agencies. The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities," the state police said in the state on Friday morning

Echoing Malviya, BJP's state president in West Bengal Dr Sukanta Majumdar said that it is natural that terrorists will consider the state as a safe shelter since this is the only state where the central agency sleuths are attacked and beaten up severely whenever they try to take any action against any anti-national activities.

"In addition, the state police are initiating an investigation against those central agency sleuths based on counter FIRs with baseless charges. Naturally, such developments encourage anti-national elements," said Majumdar.

The state general secretary of Trinamool Congress, Kunal Ghosh promptly reacted indirectly, hinting at the family of the leader of the opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari who hails from Kanthi, where the arrests were made. However, Ghosh did not directly name the Adhikari family

"Let me ask BJP leaders one question. Where are the arrests made? It is Kanthi. We all know which family and BJP's main leader runs illegal activities from there. I urge the state agencies to investigate this matter to find out the Family's links in providing shelter to anti-national forces," Ghosh said.

At the same time, he thanked the NIA for acknowledging the role of the state police in accomplishing the arrests.
New Delhi, April 12 : The Delhi High Court recently mandated the shutdown of a website found to be impersonating Tata Sons Private Limited, using the site to promote a Ponzi scheme.

The fraudulent website, operating under the domain "www.tatarestart.com," was accused by Tata Sons of luring unsuspecting investors with promises of unrealistic financial returns.

Justice Sanjeev Narula issued a directive for an ad-interim injunction against Tata Restart, the entity behind the website, ordering it to cease the use of the "Tata" name or any marks similar to those registered by Tata Sons.

The court's order includes the immediate takedown of the website and instructed the domain name registrar to block or suspend the domain.

The court's decision came after Tata Sons presented evidence of trademark infringement, citing the unauthorised use of the "Tata" mark which could potentially confuse and deceive consumers.

The court noted that the domain and the mark "TATA RESTART" were not only deceptively similar to Tata Sons' own registered domain and trademarks but also indicated dishonest intent in their use.

In its ruling, the court stated: "Such use of Plaintiff's trademark on the website, as depicted in photographs above, is bound to cause consumer confusion and association with Plaintiff as Defendant No.1 has wholly incorporated the Plaintiff's registered mark 'TATA' in its website domain www.tatarestart.com, and marks 'TATA RESTART'."

The court further noted that without the injunction, Tata Sons would likely suffer irreparable harm, affirming that the balance of convenience favoured the plaintiff.
Udhampur, April 12 : Openly throwing a challenge to the Opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, warned that people of India would not spare them if they even think of bringing back Article 370.

"To keep their grip on people, these parties created a demon, saying that if Article 370 is removed, Jammu and Kashmir would burn and it would break away from the country," PM Modi said while addressing a poll rally in Udhampur.

"For the sake of power, they had built a wall of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. With your blessings, Modi has demolished that wall and buried the debris of Article 370 deep in the ground," he added.

Challenging the Opposition that speaks of restoring Article 370, PM Modi said that if they do it, then people will not "even look at them."

Earlier this week, Home Minister Amit Shah, while addressing a public rally in Madhya Pradesh, had also warned Congress, saying: "Don't ever dare to change Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir."

"Although Congress can't return to power again, if it happens by chance, I would warn Congress to not dare to change Article 370. Kashmir is part of India. Your (Congress) politics of appeasement is over now," Shah said.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 12 : After the CBI on Thursday arrested Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC, K Kavitha, in the alleged excise policy scam, it produced the jailed leader before a Delhi court on Friday.

Kavitha, who is in judicial custody till April 23 in the money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam being probed by the ED, was arrested from Jail No-6 in Tihar at 12:50 p.m. on Thursday.

On Friday, the CBI sought Kavitha's five-day custody on the grounds that witness statements, retrieved WhatsApp chats, and financial transaction documents related to a land deal have implicated her as a major conspirator in a scheme to pay Rs. 100 crore to the AAP through accused Vijay Nair and others, in exchange for favourable provisions in Delhi's 2021-22 Excise Policy.

The CBI has said that investigation revealed that a liquor businessman of South India met with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on March 16, 2021, at the Delhi Secretariat to seek support for business under the new Excise Policy for 2021-22.

CM Kejriwal allegedly assured support and said that Kavitha would contact him about funding the AAP.

"Kavitha called the businessman on March 19 and met him on March 20 in Hyderabad, where she referenced her coordination with Kejriwal's team on the Excise Policy," the CBI has said.

The CBI has alleged that approver Dinesh Arora confirmed in his statements that co-accused Abhishek Boinpally informed him about a payment of Rs. 90-100 crore to Vijay Nair.

Arora detailed that out of this, Rs. 30 crore were transferred via hawala channels through him, collected by Rajesh Joshi of Chariot Media Productions Pvt. Ltd., which was hired by AAP for campaign work in the Goa Assembly election.

Additionally, hawala operators' statements and records confirmed that Rajesh Joshi transferred Rs. 11.94 crore from Delhi to Goa via hawala during the relevant period.

The CBI's investigation revealed that chats from the mobile of Butchibabu, CA to Kavitha, indicate her involvement in M/s Indospirit through proxy Arun R. Pillai. Other partners included approver Raghav Magunta and accused Sameer Mahendru.

"Despite allegations of blacklisting and cartelisation, M/s Indospirit was granted an L-1 Licence under pressure from Manish Sisodia. Additionally, under Vijay Nair's influence, M/s Indospirits became a wholesaler for M/s Pernod Ricard India Pvt. Ltd., which holds a 35 per cent market share in Delhi," it said.

The chats also show Kavitha's efforts to help Raghav Magunta secure an NOC for his company, M/s Pixie Enterprises, for the Airport Zone.

The central probe agency's remand application discloses that on Kavitha's assurance of her connections within the Delhi government and her ability to aid in the liquor business under the new Excise Policy, Sharath Chandra Reddy engaged in the business in Delhi.

Kavitha instructed Reddy that payments of Rs. 25 crore for wholesale and Rs. 5 crore per retail zone were to be made to the AAP through her associates Arun R. Pillai and Abhishek Boinpally, who would coordinate with Vijay Nair, CM Arvind Kejriwal's representative.

During March and May 2021, when the Excise Policy was being developed, Kavitha's associates, Arun R. Pillai, Abhishek Boinpally, and Butchibabu Gorantla, stayed at the Hotel Oberoi in Delhi, influencing the policy through Vijay Nair.

After ensuring support for Reddy's business operations in Delhi under the policy, a payment of Rs. 80 lakh was made to Telangana Jagruthi, an NGO led by Kavitha, through M/s Aurobindo Reality and Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd., part of the Aurobindo Group, in March 2021 as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.

The CBI has further said that the investigation revealed that in June-July 2021, Kavitha pressured Sharath Chandra Reddy into entering a sale agreement for agricultural land in Mahboob Nagar, Telangana, despite his lack of interest and knowledge of the land's value.

Kavitha insisted he pay Rs. 14 crore for the land and facilitated the sale through Mahira Ventures Pvt. Ltd., an Aurobindo Group company. The total payment was made through bank transactions -- Rs. 7 crore in the first week of July 2021 and another Rs. 7 crore in mid-November 2021.

"Kavitha was required to be arrested in the instant case to conduct her custodial interrogation for confronting her with the evidence and witnesses to unearth the larger conspiracy hatched among the accused/suspect persons regarding formulation and implementation of the Excise Policy, as well as to establish the money trail of ill-gotten money generated and to establish the role of other accused/suspect persons including public servants as well as to unearth the facts which are in her exclusive knowledge," the CBI has claimed seeking her custody.
Hyderabad, April 12 : With a month to go for polling in Telangana for Lok Sabha elections, opposition BRS and BJP are trying to corner the Congress over its alleged failure to deliver on the six guarantees given in Assembly elections even as the ruling party claims to have implemented four guarantees and assuring voters of its commitment to fulfill the remaining promises.

Targeting the Congress government over not fulfilling the guarantees within 100 days as committed by it, leaders of both BRS and BJP say that the ruling party has no moral right to seek votes in the Lok Sabha polls.

The opposition parties claim that Congress has failed to fully implement even one guarantee.

The government, which completed four months in office on April 7, claims to have implemented six promises as part of these guarantees.

The Congress party made a total of 13 promises as part of six guarantees during the Assembly elections held in November, 2023.

On December 9, two days after assuming office, the Revanth Reddy-led government launched the Mahalakshmi scheme to provide free travel facilities for women in TSRTC buses and enhanced coverage under Rajiv Arogyasri (health insurance scheme for the poor) from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.

The rollout of other guarantees was delayed as the government embarked on a massive exercise to receive applications from eligible beneficiaries.

Over 1.28 crore applications were received for the six guarantees during the 'Praja Palana' programme conducted across the state in December-January.

On February 27, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy launched the implementation of two more guarantees - 200 units of free electricity to each household and a cooking gas cylinder for Rs 500.

On March 11, Chief Minister Reddy launched Indiramma Indlu, a housing scheme for the poor.

Under the scheme, the government will distribute house sites in the name of women and extend financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the construction of houses. It has sanctioned 4.50 lakh Indiramma houses at the cost of Rs 22,500 crore.

Households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month and having white ration cards (BPL families) started receiving 'zero bills' from March. Power distribution companies said over 10 lakh consumers were issued azero billsa.

However, many applicants complained that despite being eligible they were denied the benefits under the scheme.

Adding to the confusion, some consumers who had received zero bills in March, were issued bills for two months in April. "When I enquired with the officials concerned, they said this was done keeping in view the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections," said Mohammed Ghouse, a private employee and resident of Rajendranagar in Rangareddy district.

Similarly, white ration card holders are getting cooking gas cylinders for Rs 500. The government said a total of 40 lakh families will be benefited from this scheme.

According to a Government Order, only those white ration card holders who have applied for the scheme during the Praja Palana programme will be eligible for subsidy. They should have an active domestic LPG connection in their name. The LPG cylinders which can be availed by consumers will be limited to the average of their last three years of consumption of cylinders.

The state government will transfer the required amount, in advance, to the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), every month. OMCs will transfer the subsidy amount by Direct Beneficiary Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiaries.

Many families, however, complained that they were left out despite being eligible for the gas subsidy scheme.

The leaders of the ruling party are citing the model code of conduct for the delay in fully implementing the schemes. They are assuring the people that all the eligible families will get the benefits. They also maintain that despite the false propaganda by the opposition, the government remained committed to implementing the guarantees.

"There is no question of this government backtracking on any of the promises made by Sonia Gandhi ji," said Chief Minister Reddy at a public meeting recently.

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi announced six guarantees on September 17, 2023, at a public meeting at Tukkuguda near Hyderabad during the Assembly elections. At the same venue, the Congress released the Telugu version of its national guarantees for forthcoming Lok Sabha elections on April 6 in the presence of Rahul Gandhi.

Under six guarantees 'Mahalakshmi', 'Rythu Bharosa', 'Gruha Jyothi', 'Indiramma Indlu', 'Yuva Vikasam' and 'Cheyutha', different promises were made for women, farmers, youth, homeless and elderly.

The government is yet to implement promises like monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 for every woman, monthly pension of Rs 4,000 each for elderly, Rs.15,000 per acre annual investment support for farmers including tenant farmers, annual support of Rs 12,000 each for agriculture labourers, Rs 500 bonus per quintal for paddy crop above the Minimum Support Price (MSP), Vidya Bharosa Card worth Rs 5 lakh each for students and Telangana international schools in all mandals.

BRS leader and former minister T. Harish Rao alleged that Congress is once again trying to cheat people by promising new guarantees in Lok Sabha elections.

Harish Rao even called upon the people to chase away the Congress leaders, who were coming to villages to seek votes in Lok Sabha elections since they had failed to keep any poll promises they made during the assembly elections.

He asked what happened to the promises made to farmers. Under Rythu Bharosa, farmers were promised annual financial assistance of Rs 15,000 per acre against Rs10,000 under the Rythu Bandhu scheme of the previous government.

He recalled that Congress had also promised waiver of crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh and 24-hour power supply. He claimed that the power supply had come down to 14 hours.

The opposition also slammed Congress for making excuses by presenting a white paper on state finances. BRS working president K. T. Rama Rao alleged that the Congress fooled people by making impractical promises.

"Do you calculate and then make promises or you make promises and then do the math," he asked the government on collecting data relating to finances to implement six guarantees.

Calling the white paper a "pack of lies", the BRS alleged that Congress is trying to escape from six guarantees.

In the vote-on-account Budget for 2024-25, the government allocated Rs.53,196 crore to implement guarantees.

"The six guarantees comprise 13 major promises, and to implement them, at least Rs 1.25 lakh crore is needed but the government allocated only Rs 53,000 crore, which shows the government is not sincere," said Rama Rao.

He mentioned that the scheme of giving Rs 2,500 per month to all women under the Mahalakshmi guarantee alone would require Rs 50,000 crore.

He asked what happened to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's promise to waive Rs 2 lakh loans within two days of coming to power. He also asked what happened to the guarantee that in the first Cabinet meeting, the six guarantees will be given Constitutional validity.

Telangana BJP president and Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy said that the Congress has no ethical right to seek votes from people as it has failed to implement the promised guarantees to various sections of people during the Assembly elections.

He alleged that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is coming out with new excuses to delay the implementation. "Revanth Reddy is now talking about implementing the guarantees only if the party wins all 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state and Rahul Gandhi becomes the Prime Minister. He knows that this is not going to happen," the Telangana BJP president said.

There is a mixed opinion among people over the implementation of six guarantees. While some are hoping the government will keep its word, others believe it has failed to deliver. Since the Congress government immediately launched the free bus travel scheme and despite the initial challenges, successfully implementing the same, this has to some extent helped create a positive environment for the party.

As the only condition for availing the scheme is that women should show their Aadhaar cards, families are happy over saving on travel expenses.

"We are not only availing free travel facility in TSRTC buses, our application for free electricity has also been accepted. We believe that there are genuine difficulties in issuing zero bills due to the model code of conduct and hope that the government will keep its word after the Lok Sabha polls," said P. Vasantha, an Anganwadi teacher.

"We are hopeful that the government will ensure implementation of other promises after the Parliament elections. Since this government has not even completed six months, let us give it some more time to keep its word," said T. Maniamma, a housewife in Chevella constituency.

Another woman Chandrakala, however, believes that the Congress government has failed to deliver on its promises. "The government should not further delay implementing the new schemes while ensuring continued implementation of existing schemes," she said.
Dediapada, April 12 : The AAP's Gujarat President, Isudan Gadhvi, took to the campaign trail in Dediapada to support Chaitar Vasava, the AAP candidate for the Bharuch Lok Sabha seat.

Dediapada, April 12 (IANS) The AAPas Gujarat President, Isudan Gadhvi, took to the campaign trail in Dediapada to support Chaitar Vasava, the AAP candidate for the Bharuch Lok Sabha seat.

Gadhvi highlighted the significant unrest in the tribal community due to an entry ban imposed on Vasava in the area by local community leaders, saying that the party candidate or AAP cadres will not be allowed in the area.

Gadhvi accused the BJP of introducing Independent and other party candidates to dilute Vasava's voter base, a strategy that has sparked widespread anger and fear among local residents.

"The tribal community is distraught as Chaitarbhai was jailed by the BJP, but his enduring dedication to tribal rights has only bolstered their support for him," Gadhvi stated.

Gadhvi also criticised the region's lack of development, particularly the absence of quality government schools over the past three decades, which he argued has hindered the progress of local tribal youth.

He also highlighted the uneven allocation of government grants in the villages, indicating a neglect that has resonated poorly with the constituents.

"Every elected MP receives a substantial grant, but the representation and advocacy for Bharuch in Delhi remain inadequate," Gadhvi noted.

Earlier, on March 23 Mansukh Vasava, the BJP Lok Sabha MP from Bharuch and the party's candidate for the forthcoming general elections, accused AAP workers of extorting money from offices in Dediapada.

In a Facebook post, Mansukh Vasava claimed, "Under the pretext of Holi celebrations in Dediapada, AAP leaders are intimidating officials and contractors to extort money. Recently, a taluka officer was reportedly coerced into paying Rs 2.5 lakh in the name of the MLA.

aThis type of extortion affects various departments within the taluka, where political leaders frequently pressure officials and contractors for financial contributions, potentially hindering development projects.

aI urge taluka and district officials to avoid succumbing to such corrupt practices and to maintain the integrity of their work. Do not fear these corrupt elements; we are here to support you."
Lucknow, April 12 : The Samajwadi Party (SP) has said that it will register a complaint with the Election Commission regarding the deployment of policemen in the attire of the priest inside the Kashi Vishwanath Dham (KVD) Temple.

The deployment of policemen in Dhoti Kurta was made to make the devotees feel comfortable in the temple complex.

Police Commissioner Mohit Aggarwal had issued directives to deploy policemen in priest clothes for the convenience and cooperation of the devotees in the sanctum sanctorum of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

SP State Spokesperson Manoj Rai Dhupchandi said that the new arrangement of deployment of policemen in Vishwanath temple raises questions.

He said: "The Model Code of Conduct is in place and all this is being done for electoral gains. Arbitrary use of police is not appropriate. The dignity of the police in a public place lies in its uniform."

SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav wrote on X: "According to which 'police manual', is it correct for policemen to be dressed as priests? Those who give such orders should be suspended. If any thug takes advantage of this tomorrow and robs the innocent public, what answer will the Uttar Pradesh administration give?"
Bengaluru, April 12 : The Karnataka BJP on Friday attacked the Siddaramaiah government after the arrest of two men by the NIA in the Bengaluru cafe blast case, saying that the terrorists were 'brothers' of the Congress.

Taking to social media, Karnataka BJP stated, "National Investigation Agency (NIA) detains 'Brothers' of Congress in Rameshwaram Blast case. Ever since Jihadi Tipu Sultan's admirers came to power in Karnataka, terrorists have got a free ride."

"Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's 'Ease of Doing Terror' Policies have prompted ISIS to now set up its shop in Karnataka. The only guarantee that CM Siddaramaiah has fulfilled is converting prosperous Karnataka into a terror hub," the BJP stated.

The BJP had earlier hit out at Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar after he said that the business rivalry angle was also being probed. State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra had said that if the Congress leader's conduct remained the same, his name would be included in the "list of anti-nationals".

Vijayendra had further attacked that the "my brother policy" of the Congress government in Karnataka has become a "great threat" to the people. "I claim this because, when the cooker blast took place in Mangaluru, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar said that the accused were his brothers. He gave them a clean chit."

Terming the blast a "terrorist act", Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka had claimed that whenever Siddaramaiah came to power, terrorists get "emboldened".

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday arrested bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and his accomplice Abdul Matheen Taha from a hideout in Kolkata city.

After gathering inputs about their movements in Assam and West Bengal, the NIA arrested the accused, carrying a Rs 10 lakh cash award.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib a.k.a. Shazeb, 30, is a resident of Thirthahalli town in Karnataka's Shivamogga district.

Another conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taahaa a.k.a. Matheen a.k.a. Taha a.k.a. Vignesh.D a.k.a. Sumit., is also wanted in other cases.

"Mussavir Hussain Shazib is the accused who placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe and Abdul Matheen Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of the blast and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law," NIA sources said.
First picture of mum stabbed to death in Bradford street while pushing baby in pram

A mother who was stabbed to death while pushing her baby in a pram in Bradford city centre has been pictured for the first time.

Kulsuma Akter, 27, who was attacked in Bradford on Saturday, is pictured in a sari alongside 25-year-old husband Habibur Masum, who is charged with her murder.

Speaking to the BBC from her home in Bangladesh, Ms Akter's mother, Monwara Begum, said: I am in shock. She was my youngest daughter and I adored her greatly."

She looked after me when my eldest daughter was married, and she would get my medicine and do everything for me.

When she moved to the United Kingdom I was alone, but Kulsuma would call me every day by video. The only day I didn't hear from her was the day she was attacked.

Masum, 25, appeared at Bradford Magistrates Court on Thursday to face the charge of Ms Akters murder, as well as a charge of possession of a bladed article.

Masum, of Leamington Avenue, Burnley, was remanded in custody following a six-minute long hearing.

Click below to see the latest Yorkshire headlines

Masum stood in the glass-fronted dock as he was addressed by District Judge Alex Boyd.

Clean-shaven, dressed in a grey sweatshirt and flanked by three security guards, he spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.

Mr Boyd told him: You are charged with the offence of murder, which can only be dealt with at the Crown court and that offence is sent to Bradford Crown Court for your first hearing which will take place tomorrow.

Between now and that date you are remanded in custody."

Masum was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, 170 miles away from where Ms Akter was stabbed.

A 23-year-old man arrested in the Cheshire area on Monday on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail, West Yorkshire Police said.

Four other men were arrested in Aylesbury on suspicion of assisting an offender and drug offences.

The men aged 23, 26, 28 and 29, from the West Midlands area, are currently in custody, the force added.

Ms Akter was taken to hospital after being stabbed several times in Westgate at the junction with Drewton Road at 3.20pm on Saturday.

She later died from her injuries. The baby is safe and was not harmed in the incident, police said.
Kolhapur, April 12 : The Congress has demanded an apology from Shiv Sena MP Sanjay S. Mandlik who raised questions on the royal credentials of his rival and INDIA bloc-MVA-Congress nominee Chhatrapati Shrimant Shahu Maharaj, here on Friday.

As an ignoble row continued for the second day, Kolhapur Congress strongman, MLA Satej D. Patil, alias Bunty, slammed Mandlik for his utterances and clamoured for his apology.

"He has insulted the descendants of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj by such comments. He must tender an apology to the people of Kolhapur, Maharashtra, and the Chhatrapati's family members," said an indignant Patil.

Unfazed by the raging controversy, Mandlik denied committing any disrespect or casting aspersions on the Chhatrapati Shrimant Shahu Maharaj.

"What I meant was that this Chhatrapati is not from Kolhapur, he was adopted and is an outsider... We have the highest regards for the Chhatrapati. Why should I offer any apology," demanded Mandlik.

Patil shot back by asking "who has given Mandlik the 'script' to read out" and why did he suddenly remember the Chhatrapati's royal lineage after six decades.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said that the people of Maharashtra "will not forgive or forget" the slur by Mandlik on the Chhatrapati who is a revered personality, and the 12th direct descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) President Prakash Ambedkar said that "the whole world has accepted Chhatrapati and his family", so it's not appropriate to comment on someone's remarks against him.

At an election rally on Thursday, Mandlik, hoping for a repeat term in Lok Sabha, raised the issue of the Chhatrapati's distinguished ancestry, and claimed that the latter was actually "an adopted royal".

Mandlik questioned whether the Maharajas (Chhatrapati) are really from Kolhapur, and contended that "they are not the true heirs, but are adopted", and it is "the people of Kolhapur" who are the genuine legacy holders.

Kicking up a fracas, Mandlik's comments attracted flak from the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, including Nationalist Congress Party (SP) President Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Sanjay Raut and Kishore Tiwari, and Congressa Atul Londhe.

"Adoption in royal families is not new... Many have become kings/rulers in this way in the past. For, once they are adopted, they become the rightful representative of that royal lineage. Chhatrapati Shrimant Shahu Maharaj is a highly revered figure in the public mind," said Sharad Pawar.

He lamented that Mandlik's remarks indicated the depths to which the ruling party players can stoop, and showed their mentality towards the Opposition candidates.

Sharad Pawar pointed out that the Chhatrapati is following in the footsteps of his illustrious predecessor Chhatrapati Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, and has set up a string of renowned educational institutions for which the people all over the state are indebted to him.

Londhe said that "Mandlik has blatantly insulted the royal dynasty of the Kolhapur Chhatrapati, whose immense contributions to the people of the state and country cannot be underplayed or compared with anybody".

Tiwari pointed out that Mandlikas utterances were in "very poor taste, considering the standing of the Kolhapur Chhatrapati among the masses", and urged his (Shiv Sena) party leaders including Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to take serious note.

"But, what can we expect from the people who have hijacked the father of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief and ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray, the late Balasaheb Thackeray, and broke the party he had founded (Shiv Sena). The people of Kolhapur will definitely show the MahaYuti-Shiv Sena candidate Mandlik his place," warned Tiwari.

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party Pravin Darekar attempted to defend Mandlik by saying that "he may not have intended to belittle the Chhatrapati who is a very respected person", and suspected it "could be a slip of the tongue".
Mumbai, April 12 : A sitting MP from Mumbai North West and veteran Shiv Sena leader Gajanan Kirtikar on Friday said the BJP should fulfil its slogan of 400 plus seats, but at the same time, it must also take care of its allies.

Kirtikar, who is unclear about his renomination from the same constituency, also said that the BJP should respect the opposition too.

"Now the slogan of '400 par' is being given. We will also take the initiative to make Narendra Modi the Prime Minister. But some BJP leader's attitude can create trouble for him,aa said Kirtikar.

Kirtikar said, "I have completed 57 years in Shiv Sena. But I have never been deceitful. I announced I would campaign against Amol Kirtikar (his son, who is the Shiv Sena UBT nominee in Mumbai North West)."

Referring to the inquiry by the Enforcement Directorate against Amol Kirtikar in connection with the alleged Khichdi scam, Gajanan Kirtikar defended his son and claimed that nothing would come out of the ongoing investigation.

"Amol is accused of the Khichdi scam. But that company was founded by Sanjay Mashelkar. These people were doing social work during Corona. After the concept of a jumbo hospital came up, Mashelkar's company did the work of providing materials for it. Amol and Suraj Chavan, who is from Shiv Sena UBT and is currently under judicial custody in connection with the scam, are not involved in it. They helped with the supply chain. There is no scam in this. Amol got his remuneration. Income tax was also levied on it,aa said Gajanan Kirtikar.

Mumbai North West constituency will go to polls on May 20.
Mumbai, April 12 : Actor Kanwar Dhillon, who portrays Sachin in the show 'Udne Ki Aasha', revealed the best compliment he has received for his role, stating that people now actually think that he is a Maharashtrian.

Born into a Punjabi family, Kanwar is the son of actor Deep Dhillon, known for his work in 'Mahabharat'.

On the best compliment he has received for the character Sachin, Kanwar said: "People actually think that I am Maharashtrian. People have actually started to believe that I am a Marathi guy because when we shoot outdoor schedules and when fans come and interact with me, they start talking in Marathi."

"So that gives me so much contentment as an actor that I have successfully convinced people that I am a Marathi guy and I am playing Sachin because I am a Marathi guy, so I think that's the best compliment for me as an actor," he shared.

Speaking about the wedding sequence in the show, the 'Pandya Store' actor added: "The entire experience of shooting the wedding sequence was quite fascinating. I got to know quite a lot of the rituals that Maharashtrians follow, and I have always been fascinated with Marathi culture. It was a great experience."

'Udne Ki Aasha' depicts the tale of Sachin (Kanwar) and Sailee (Neha) and also the intricacies of the relationships and equations. Set in a Marathi backdrop, it will depict a wife's roadblock in the form of a non-cooperative husband, and her challenge to make him transform for the sake of her and the family's progress.

Produced by Rahul Kumar Tewary, 'Udne Ki Aasha' airs on Star Plus.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 12 : The Congress party in Kerala on Friday wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner of India seeking a CBI probe into the bomb blasts that took place at Panoor.

Panoor comes under the Vadakara Lok Sabha constituency in Kozhikode District.

The blast took place on April 5 and it left one person dead and two others injured.

Acting Kerala Congress President, MM Hassan in his letter to the CEC expressed doubts about the whole episode.

"As per our reports four CPI(M) DYFI activists have been arrested in the case and one CPI(M) activist died following the blast. There have been subsequent incidents of political violence that are directly connected to the explosion," Hassan wrote in his letter.

"The Chief Minister has taken this episode very lightly. Contradicting the claims made by the CPI(M), the police report states that these bombs were made in anticipation of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.

"We suspect that this was orchestrated by the CPI(M), to be used against the Congress supporters on the day of the polls to scare people away. Hence we demand that this should be probed by a central agency preferably the CBI," Hassan stated in his letter.

Earlier, CPI(M) state Secretary, MV Govindan stated that the party and its supporters did not have any role and the DYFI (the party's youth wing) was not a feeder organisation of the CPI(M).

The Vadakara Lok Sabha constituency is witnessing a fight to the finish between the CPI(M) and the Congress.

While the CPI(M) has brought in its star candidate and former Health Minister and senior Legislator, KK Shailaja, the Congress has fielded youth icon and three-time sitting Legislator Shafi Parambil.
Bhopal, April 12 : The Congress leadership is allegedly disappointed with its candidate for Dhar Lok Sabha constituency in Madhya Pradesh, and is likely to field a new face.

Congress has fielded Radheshyam Muvel from Dhar, one of the five Lok Sabha seats reserved for Schedule Tribes (ST) in Madhya Pradesh.

However, the Congress leadership found its candidate inactive on ground for the election. A senior Congress spokesperson said that Muvelas ticket from Dhar was cleared in the first list, however, he did not open even a single office for the election.

"Radheshyam Muvel was racing for the ticket but he is not active anymore on the ground. Local party workers have appealed to the party's Central leadership to replace him with a new face," a spokesperson told IANS.

According to sources, Congress is likely to replace Muvel with Mahendra Kannauj, who is a part of the Jay Adivasi Yuva Sangthan (JAYS) from Dhar.

The election in Dhar is scheduled in the fourth phase on May 13, along with six other constituencies of MP's Malwa-Nimar region, namely, Dewas, Ujjain, Mandsaur, Ratlam, Indore, Khargone and Khandwa.

The Congress has lost two consecutive general elections from Dhar (2014 and 2019), however, it won five out of eight Assembly seats under this Lok Sabha seats in November last year. On the other hand, BJP won three.

Five out of eight Assembly seats under Dhar Lok Sabha constituency are reserved for ST, and Congress bagged four of them, while the BJP was able to secure only one.

BJP won as many as eight Lok Sabha elections from 90 per cent tribal-dominated Dhar constituency, including in 2014 and 2019. This time, BJP has fielded ex-MP Savitri Singh from Dhar.
Kochi, April 12 : The Kerala High Court on Friday considered positively one of the demands of the victim in the alleged actress assault case of 2017.

The victim, a leading south Indian actress, had complained that she was abducted and sexually assaulted by a gang of goons in 2017 who also filmed the act to blackmail her.

She had demanded a court-monitored probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kerala Police into the alleged unauthorised access of a memory card with visuals of the alleged assault when it was in the custody of the trial court.

The actress had moved the high court in 2022 alleging that the memory card which was seized as evidence was accessed, copied, and transmitted without authorisation.

She also sought copies of the statements made by various persons before the sessions judge handling the case.

The court on Friday granted the request for copies of the statements, besides stating that it would look into her demand for an SIT probe at a later date before posting the case for next hearing on May 30.

To recall, after Sunil -- the main accused -- was arrested and questioned, prominent actor Dileep was accused of being the main conspirator in the case. Dileep also spent several weeks in jail in this case before coming out on bail.
New Delhi, April 12 : A Delhi court on Friday sought response of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on the interim bail plea of Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

Sisodia has sought interim bail to campaign for his party for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Special judge Kaveri Baweja of Rouse Avenue Court has listed the matter for next hearing on April 20.

Judge Baweja had, on Wednesday, said that she will hear, on April 15, Sisodia's bail application in the excise policy-related money laundering case.

The court had heard arguments from Sisodia's counsel, who opposed the submissions made by the ED, saying that the probe agency was reiterating arguments previously presented before both the Delhi court and the Supreme Court.

The AAP leader's judicial custody was extended till April 18 in the case.

Last time, the ED had contended that Sisodia and the other accused persons were delaying the trial in the case.

Last week, Sisodia's bail application was filed by his counsel alleging delay in completing the investigation in the case.

Sisodia's counsel Mohit Mathur had argued there has been no evidence linking his client to the alleged bribe money.

He had argued that the alleged proceeds of crime were not proven to cause any loss to the exchequer or private consumers. He had stressed the delay in the trial, stating that the Supreme Court's order, allowing him to approach the court, is six months old, and the investigation should have been completed by now.

Citing the bail granted to another accused, Benoy Babu, Mathur had argued for Sisodia's bail, saying that he no longer holds a position of influence. He had also stressed that Sisodia met the triple test for bail, as outlined by the Supreme Court, and urged for a speedy trial.

Mathur further said that Sisodia's eligibility for bail is established, given the fulfilment of all necessary conditions and the absence of any misuse of liberties, as per the Supreme Court's guidelines.

Sisodia's role is being probed by both the ED and the CBI.

Earlier, the CBI counsel had told the court that the investigation was at a critical stage and releasing Sisodia on bail might impede the ongoing probe or lead to his evading justice.
Agartala, April 12 : A record number of over 20,000 security personnel comprising Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) and state force personnel have been deployed in Tripura for the elections to two Lok Sabha constituencies and the by-poll in one Assembly seat in the state, officials said here on Friday.

A top police officer said that with the direction of the Election Commission (EC), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has already sent 84 companies (around 8,000 personnel) of CAPF comprising the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which have already been deployed in all the eight districts of the state.

He said that besides the CAPF over 10,000 Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and a few thousand state police personnel are also being deployed for the elections scheduled on April 19 and April 26.

"The security forces are conducting area domination, confidence building measures patrolling to ensure normal law and order situation so that free, fair and violence free elections can be held," an official told IANS.

Tripura Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Puneet Agarwal said that earlier this week a "Mission Violence Free Election 2024" was launched in Tripura to ensure a 100 per cent violence-free election.

Agarwal said that ahead of the elections to the state's two Lok Sabha seats, 2,500 flag marches and area domination patrolling were conducted by the CAPF and the state forces since last month.

He said that various law enforcement agencies have seized various contraband items including drugs worth Rs 9 crore during the last month.

The CEO said that in the previous 17th Lok Sabha elections, 83 per cent voting was recorded and in the 18th Lok Sabha polls, the target is to exceed the 2019 turnout.

He said that under the aSystematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP)' various socio-cultural events including drawing aAlpanasa, (a decorative design) are being organised to sensitise both new and old voters to cast their votes in large numbers.

Agarwal said that on the direction of the Election Commission, the concerned authorities have suspended six government employees including teachers and security personnel, who were directly involved with political activities.

The police as part of preventive arrests have also detained 12,000 persons across Tripura.

Polling for the Tripura West Parliamentary seat will be held on April 19 in the first of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, while the Tripura East (ST) constituency will go to the polls in the second phase on April 26.

The by-election to the Ramnagar Assembly seat will also be held on April 19. The seat fell vacant after the demise of sitting BJP MLA Surajit Datta on December 28 last year.

In the 18 candidates, including two women, are contesting on the two Lok Sabha seats while two candidates, one each of BJP and CPI-M, are trying their electoral fortunes in the Ramnagar Assembly by-poll.

In the Lok Sabha poll in two seats, the main contest is expected to be between the BJP and the INDIA bloc, comprising the Congress, CPI-M and six other parties.
Kolkata, April 12 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Friday, gave full credit to the state police for the arrest of two accused in the Bengaluru cafe blast case.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Mateen Taha were arrested from Kanthi in the East Midnapore district by the NIA on Friday.

"The two persons who have been arrested are not residents of West Bengal. They were just hiding here. We traced them within two hours. Our cops arrested them," the Chief Minister said while addressing an election rally at Cooch Behar.

Addressing the gathering, she also cautioned the state north Bengal development minister, Udayan Guha, who is also a party legislator from Cooch Behar district, to maintain his cool during the election period. "I will advise Udayan to be cool. Nisith Pramaik will try to drag you into unnecessary problems and conduct the polling in his favour taking advantage of that. You should never allow that. Keep yourself well-prepared in advance. Mainly peace in the area," the Chief Minister said.

Nisith Pramanik is the sitting BJP Lok Sabha member from Cooch Behar constituency who has been re-nominated by his party from the seat

The Chief Minister also said that while there might be some understanding at the national level through the opposition INDIA bloc, in West Bengal, BJP, Congress and CPI(M) are equal opponents of Trinamool Congress.

"Remember, if you want to vote against BJP you will have to vote only for Trinamool Congress and no other party," the Chief Minister said.

She also claimed that the arrest of erstwhile Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren is concrete evidence of the BJP being anti-tribal. "Soren was the only Chief Minister in the country who hailed from a tribal background. He has been arrested. The Chief Minister of Delhi has also been arrested. Here in West Bengal, they are arresting our party leaders and workers," the Chief Minister said.
Ayushmann Khurrana is an astrophile, looks at universe in poetic way. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, April 12 : Ayushmann Khurrana, who is receiving a lot of positive response to his recently released synth-pop track 'Akh Da Taara', is fond of celestial bodies and often gazes at the universe with an "artiste's delight".

Mumbai, April 12 (IANS) Ayushmann Khurrana, who is receiving a lot of positive response to his recently released synth-pop track 'Akh Da Taara', is fond of celestial bodies and often gazes at the universe with an "artiste's delight".

The actor spoke with IANS and shared that looking at the stars has been his favourite pastime since childhood.

Ayushmann told IANS: "I went to a meteor shower in Pune a couple of months ago. I have a few astronomer friends in Pune, and we have this telescope. We go to a farmhouse where there's less light pollution, and the entire night we just look at the stars. That's been my favourite thing since childhood."

The actor further mentioned that for him the universe is beyond the realm of science, and he is fascinated by it in a poetic way.

Ayushmann said: "I don't look at the stars and celestial bodies just through the lens of science. To me, they seem very poetic. So, my process is very different. It's more of an artiste's delight. I'm obsessed with the universe and the celestial bodies."

"I also do get philosophical looking at them. I write about these things normally as well, but I haven't exposed that part in my artworks so far. Let's see how and when this pans out," he added.

'Akh Da Taara' has been released under the label of Warner Music India.
Former Obama adviser: Kushner engaged in level of corruption that weve just never seen with foreign relations

Editors note: This report has been updated to clarify the Saudi sovereigns advisory panel position on giving funds to Jared Kushners firm.

Former Obama deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes said President Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner engaged in a level of corruption that weve just never seen when talking about his firms recent investments overseas.

Rhodes made the comment when asked about The New York Timess recent reporting that detailed that 99 percent of Kushners investment funds money came from foreign sources. The outlet also reported Kushner is working on developing hotels in the Balkans, specifically in Serbia and Albania, and noted that the firm has taken money from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

I mean, look, this is not subtle corruption that were looking at, Rhodes told MSNBCs Alex Wagner during his Wednesday appearance on Alex Wagner Tonight.

This is a guy, Jared Kushner, who had no expertise, no qualification whatsoever to be in the White House while he was there. He made it his account to work in the Gulf Arab states. He basically helped lead the cover-up for [Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman]. Get him in from the cold after the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.

Rhodes said Kushner securing a $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia six months after leaving the White House is a way for Crown Prince Mohammed to exert influence on U.S. foreign policy if Trump returns to the Oval Office after the November election.

Basically, what we can take from that investment is that in a second Trump term, U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and around the world will be made entirely with the interests of Mohammed bin Salman in mind, Rhodes said.

Kushner oversaw Middle East policy during his time in the Trump administration. The investment was scrutinized after the Times reported in 2022 that the Saudi sovereigns advisory panel was opposed to giving funds to Kushners firm, noting his inexperience, but the decision was reversed by a bigger board headed by the crown prince.

He chose to work on issues in the Middle East, and he chose to work with the Gulf Arab states, knowing that the payout would be on the back end, Rhodes said, pointing to the impeachment inquiry into President Biden by House Republicans, who allege his son, Hunter, used access to his father for profit.

And here we have the presidents son-in-law, who worked in the White House  unlike Hunter Biden  whos collected $2 billion on the back end of his service. Now hes got his father-in-law running for president, Rhodes said. Right? This is not only unusual, this is unprecedented.

Kushner defended himself and his firms action regarding conflicts-of-interest allegations when asked by the Times.

Following the laws and the rules is something we always do, he told the outlet. Perception, Ive learned that from my time in politics, is important. But I cant control what everyone is going to write or say about me.

House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) said back in August that Kushner crossed the line of ethics by accepting a $2 billion investment.

This is just putting a price tag on American foreign policy, Rhodes said. This is a level of corruption that weve just never seen, and its hiding in plain sight.

Updated on April 12 at 7:23 a.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Gandhinagar, April 12 : The Gujarat Congress Committee has lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission of India against Shankar Chaudhary, Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct.

Manish Doshi, spokesperson for the Committee, submitted the complaint to the ECI along with video evidence to support the allegations.

The controversy stems from activities that allegedly took place after the Lok Sabha elections were announced on March 17, activating the Model Code of Conduct across India.

Manish Doshi said, "According to Parliamentary Systems and Procedures Part-1, Chapter-9, upon appointment, the Speaker must detach from any political affiliations and remain completely impartial in political matters."

Despite these stipulations, "Chaudhary is accused of engaging in political campaigning."

The complaint details that "Chaudhary organised and participated in meetings in Banaskantha District and the Vav-Tharad area, advocating on behalf of the BJP's Lok Sabha candidate, which could be a significant breach of conduct for a sitting Speaker."

The ECI has yet to respond to the complaint.
Guwahati, April 12 : Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika has claimed that the state Congress President Bhupen Borah will leave the party soon after Lok Sabha polls conclude.

He told press on Friday: "Bhupen Borah claimed that he would become the Chief Minister of Assam in 2026. But to become Chief Minister, one must win the Assembly election first as an MLA. Borah has lost many times in the elections. He knows very well that he would again face defeat on a Congress ticket."

Hazarika further said that to form a government in Assam, one party must have at least 64 legislators and Congress is in no position to reach that magic figure in the state polls.

"Whether Congress can win 10 seats in the Assembly polls or not, is also uncertain. Bhupen Borah understands these facts very well and that is why he will leave the Congress party after the parliamentary election," he said.

The Minister also mentioned that BJP is riding high on public support due to its good governance and the party is set to win at least 13 Lok Sabha seats in Assam.
New Delhi, April 12 : The brightest gamma-ray burst (GRB) ever recorded by scientists, in October 2022, was the result of a collapse and subsequent explosion of a massive star, or supernova, revealed a new study on Friday.

The burst known as GRB 221009A -- dubbed the B.O.A.T. ("brightest of all time") -- is the largest explosion since the Big Bang.

It was found to occur once in every 10,000 years and was 70 times brighter than any yet seen.

The supernova was discovered using the powerful next-generation James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), said researchers from Northwestern University in the US, who were also among the international group of scientists to discover B.O.A.T.

In the research, published in the journal Nature Astronomy, the team speculated that evidence of heavy elements, such as platinum and gold, might reside within the newly uncovered supernova.

The team's extensive search did not find evidence of these elements, yet they noted that the origin of heavy elements in the universe continues to remain one of astronomy's biggest open questions.

"When we confirmed that the GRB was generated by the collapse of a massive star, that gave us the opportunity to test a hypothesis for how some of the heaviest elements in the universe are formed," said lead author Peter Blanchard, a postdoctoral fellow at Northwestern's Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA).

"We did not see signatures of these heavy elements, suggesting that extremely energetic GRBs like the B.O.A.T. do not produce these elements. That doesn't mean that all GRBs do not produce them, but it's a key piece of information as we continue to understand where these heavy elements come from. Future observations with JWST will determine if the B.O.A.T.'s 'normal' cousins produce these elements," he added.

Blanchard started his search, about six months after the GRB was initially detected.

It is because GRB was so bright that it obscured any potential supernova signature in the first weeks and months after the burst, he said.

Using the JWST's Near Infrared Spectrograph he observed the object's light at infrared wavelengths and found the characteristic signature of elements like calcium and oxygen typically found within a supernova.

"Surprisingly, it wasn't exceptionally bright -- like the incredibly bright GRB that it accompanied," he said.
Moradabad : , April 12 (IANS) Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his recent remarks on the abrogation of Article 370.

Speaking at a rally in Moradabad, HM Shah said: "Mallikarjun Kharge asks what people of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have to do with Kashmir. I want to tell them (the Congress) that every child of Moradabad is ready to give his life for Kashmir. For 70 years, Congress has nurtured Article 370 like its child."

The Union Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kashmir has been united with India forever.

Speaking at the rally, HM Shah said that the BJP flag will fly on all seats of Uttar Pradesh in the Lok Sabha elections. The state has 80 Lok Sabha seats.

HM Shah also said that law and order was weak in the previous governments. He said that smugglers and goons had earlier ruled Uttar Pradesh.

"Everyone defeated the Samajwadi Party together. Today, during Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's rule, mafia and gangsters are migrating. After this, the development started here," HM Shah said.

He said that there was a time when Hindus were migrating from Uttar Pradesh. He also gave the example of Kairana. "Today, goons are migrating instead of Hindus. Yogi Adityanath has worked to improve the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh within seven years. Today, there is a rule of law in Uttar Pradesh. The mafia rule has ended," the senior BJP leader added.

HM Shah also said that airports are being built all over Uttar Pradesh.

"Expressways and six-lane roads are being constructed in Uttar Pradesh. The government is working to provide electricity to 80 lakh villagers. PM Modi-led government has done the work of providing free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh to more than three crore poor people.

"Besides, 2 crore toilets were built in 10 years and 14 crore people have been availing the benefits," HM Shah added.

The Home Minister also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has provided houses to more than 4 crore people and gas cylinders have been given to 14 crore people.
Kolkata, April 12 : With the Union government recently notifying the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) rules, the BJP's fortunes are looking bright in the Bangaon Lok Sabha constituency in North 24 Parganas district, which is located close to the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal.

On March 11, the Centre notified the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules 2024, thus paving the way for enforcing the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which seeks to grant Indian citizenship to persecuted Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis and Christians who came to India from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan before December 31, 2014.

The news triggered celebrations among the members of the Matua community, a backward-class Hindu group which came to West Bengal as refugees from neighbouring Bangladesh, forming a sizable population in the Bangaon Lok Sabha constituency.

Perhaps sensing trouble over the celebrations by the Matua community members, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been cautioning people against applying on the CAA portal at all her public meetings since then.

She also claimed that applying on the CAA portal would lead to immediate cancellation of citizenship, saying, "We will not accept CAA, NRC or UCC."

As a counter to Mamata Banerjee's remarks on CAA, the leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, accused the Chief Minister of misleading the people since the CAA aims to "grant citizenship", and not "take it away".

The BJP has renominated its sitting MP and Union Minister Shantanu Thakaur from Bangaon, which he won by a margin of 1.10 lakh votes in 2019.

Thakur is pitted against Trinamool Congress' Biswajit Das, who officially continues to be a BJP legislator from Bagda, one of the seven Assembly constituencies under Bondagon.

After getting elected from Bagda on a BJP ticket in 2021, Das joined the Trinamool but maintained his membership with the state Assembly as a BJP legislator.

Also in the fray from Bangaon is Congress' Pradip Biswas, who has been fielded as part of the party's seat-sharing deal with the Left Front.

Other than the Matua voters, there are other factors as well that give Thakur an edge in Bangaon.

Despite Trinamool's landslide victory in the 2021 Assembly elections, the party was virtually wiped out from the Bangaon Lok Sabha constituency where the BJP won six out of the seven Assembly seats.

Also, Trinamool's decision to field Biswajit Das has reportedly irked the party's old-timers from the constituency, who are not ready to accept a 'turncoat' leader as their candidate.

The BJP is also raking the issue by questioning the "political morality" of Das for keeping his BJP legislature status intact.

A combination of all these factors seems to be giving a cushion of comfort to Thakur, and keeping him ahead of his competitors.

Bangaon is a post-delimitation constituency formed before the 2009 Lok Sabha polls, where the Trinamool held sway until the 2019 general elections. The party won the seat in 2009, 2015, and in the by-elections held in 2015 before Thakur emerged victorious by a handsome margin, riding the wave of Matua sentiments, in 2019.

Polling will be held in Bangaon in Phase 5 on May 20. The results will be out on June 4.
New Delhi, April 12 : Stepping up its electioneering in the digital space, the Congress on Friday launched its campaign song on social media to draw the attention of netizens and garner their support on its key electoral issues, ahead of the Parliamentary elections 2024.

The campaign song was released by the official handle of the Congress on Friday and also shared by top leaders including Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi and party spokespersons.

The 30-second video clip highlighting the plight of farmers tries to hard sell the point, 'how one vote can change their destiny'. The three demands highlighted in the video include  the MSP guarantee for crops, GST-free farming and loan waivers.

The campaign song mentions the historic Rs 72,000 debt waiver for farmers by the UPA government (in 2008) and urges the farming community to raise voice for their rights.

As the Congress reiterates "Haath Badlega Halaat," its campaign song sends across the message that farmers should cast their vote in favour of the party as this is their 'real voice' and it is the one that will fight for their rights.

Notably, social media has emerged as the new 'battle zone' in the run-up to the 2024 elections and is being optimally utilised by the political parties to amp up their campaign and lure new voters.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in particular has taken the lead in this space and has been pushing multiple campaign songs and also customised videos to drum up the support of netizens.

Recently, BJP launched a series of campaign songs including "Sapne Nahin Hakikat Bunte hain..." and "Bharat Ka beta Modi.." in as many as 12 languages. It also released videos to show the Opposition in bad light. The video titled 'INDIA alliance mein fight but Main Hi Hoon Dulha right' became a runaway hit, drawing lakhs of views within 24 hours.
Patna, April 12 : RJD Rajya Sabha MP and Patliputra Lok Sabha candidate Misa Bharti, on Friday, blamed the media for "twisting" her statement on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She further claimed that the media did not release her full statement.

Patna, April 12 (IANS) RJD Rajya Sabha MP and Patliputra Lok Sabha candidate Misa Bharti, on Friday, blamed the media for "twisting" her statement on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She further claimed that the media did not release her full statement.

Misa Bharti on Thursday had said that if INDIA bloc forms a government at the Centre, then a lot of BJP leaders, along with PM Modi, will go to jail.

Misa addressed media persons on Friday: "I said that the Supreme Court had made a remark on electoral bonds and termed it unconstitutional. If our government comes to power in the Centre, we will start an investigation into it and the culprits will be punished. My statement was twisted by the media."

Addressing the election campaign in the Maner area under Patliputra Lok Sabha constituency on Thursday, Misa had said: "BJP leaders are taking action against the Opposition through ED and CBI but this is not an issue. He (PM Modi) is not raising issues like unemployment and price rise in the country."

"We are talking about doubling the income of farmers and implementation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) and he (PM Modi) is blaming us for doing appeasement," Misa added.
Saharanpur : , April 12 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, while addressing an election rally in Saharanpur on Friday, hit out at the previous governments over the poor law and order situation in the state.

Yogi Adityanath said that his government was taking stern action against rioters in UP.

aToday, rioters are hung upside down and given a blast of chilli powder," Yogi Adityanath said.

The chief minister mounted a scathing attack on the SP, Congress and BSP and said that these parties will be seen during elections only, and will disappear during times of crisis, therefore, people should use their vote very thoughtfully.

He targeted the Opposition for pursuing appeasement politics and added, "Earlier UP governments used to kneel before one religion. Earlier, there used to be migration from UP. There was anarchy in UP. All these things used to happen during the time of the SP and Congress. In the New India, the responsibility of UP has increased in the same way as India's respect in the world has increased. Terrorism and Naxalism have ended in India."

Yogi Adityanath presented the model of a mafia-free and safe UP and warned criminals against posing a threat to society if they valued their lives.

aNo one ever thought that daughters and businessmen could venture out at night without worry. We ensure 'Ram Naam Satya (last rites)' for the danger posed to the safety of daughters and businessmen. We live our lives chanting Lord Ram's name. Without Ram, nothing is possible. But when someone poses a threat to the security of society, 'Ram Naam Satya' is also certain," Yogi Adityanath said.
New Delhi, April 12 : The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which comes under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, on Friday warned users of multiple vulnerabilities in Microsoft products which could allow an attacker to obtain information disclosure, bypass security restriction and cause denial-of-service (DoS) conditions on the targeted system.

The products include -- Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Developer Tools, Azure, Brower, System Center, Microsoft Dynamics, and Exchange Server.

"Multiple vulnerabilities have been reported in Microsoft products which could allow an attacker to gain elevated privileges, obtain information disclosure, bypass security restrictions, conduct remote code execution attacks, perform spoofing attacks, or cause denial of service conditions," said the CERT-In advisory.

In Microsoft Windows, the cyber agency said the vulnerabilities exist due to improper access restrictions within the proxy driver and insufficient implementation of the Mark of the Web (MotW) feature.

The agency advised users to apply appropriate security updates as mentioned in the company's update guide.

Meanwhile, CERT-In has warned users of multiple vulnerabilities in Android and Mozilla Firefox web browsers which could allow an attacker to obtain sensitive information, execute arbitrary code and cause DoS conditions on the targeted system.

As per the advisory, 'Android 12, 12L, 13, 14', and 'Mozilla Firefox versions prior to 124.0.1 and Mozilla Firefox ESR versions before 115.9.1' were the affected software versions, respectively.
Mumbai, April 12 : In an intriguing twist in 'Pushpa Impossible', viewers will see Nahari Bapodara (Jayesh Bharbhaya), who constantly clashes with Pushpa (Karuna Pandey), filming scenes with bandages wrapped around his face, neck, and hands.

Speaking about the experience and how he managed to bring out the character's authenticity, Jayesh shared how he gave his all to portray his character on screen, despite the challenge of shooting with bandages.

He said: "It is always exciting to work and have new experiences with my character. For the upcoming track, I had to wear bandages around my face during the shoot for a whole week. It was very uncomfortable because it was stuck to my skin and it was tough to move around or speak with all the heavy dressing as my jaw could not move."

"To add to the challenges, it was a little uncomfortable as the temperature is rising these days and I was feeling very itchy throughout. As an artist, we have to go through a lot of difficult situations, but we do that with a smile on our face because we need to give our best to the audiences," Jayesh added.

'Pushpa Impossible' airs on Sony SAB.
The Duke of Sussex said he is honoured that acclaimed artists have contributed their work to a fundraising auction supporting his Sentebale charity.

The auction, hosted by Sothebys, features works including a wooden mask made by Yinka Shonibare, a painting by Nelson Makamo and portraits shot by Camila Falquez.

Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho co-founded Sentebale in 2006 as a response to the needs of children and young people living in the southern African nation.

Hybrid Mask (Punu) III by Yinka Shonibare (Sentebale/PA)

Proceeds from the audition will go towards the charitys work including supporting the care of young people living with HIV, Aids and mental health issues, and training related to career development, entrepreneurship and education.

The charity has since expanded its operations to include Botswana.

In his 2022 Netflix documentary, Harry spoke about his love for southern Africa and how his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, inspired his charitable work there.

Of his work in Africa, the duke told the documentary: I was 18 years old and I wanted to go and somehow carry my Mums torch and try to keep her legacy alive and try to make her proud.

The charitys name, Sentebale, means forget-me-not in the Sesotho language of Lesotho and represents a pledge to remember and help vulnerable children.

A portrait of Arewa Basit, shot by Camila Falquez (Sentebale/PA)

In a joint statement, the duke and Prince Seeiso said: At the intersection of this incredible roster of artists is a reminder of the resilience, identity, and power we strive to instil in those we serve, echoing the very essence of forget-me-not, which Sentebale means in Sesotho.

We are so honoured that these artists are contributing their work in support of ours, as we engage with children, young people and their communities in Lesotho and Botswana in forging sustainable solutions for a brighter, more inclusive future.

The charitys first benefit auction is online until 7pm BST on April 25 at sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2024/sentebale-benefit-auction-hosted-by-sothebys.
New Delhi, April 12 : Exercise can help stop the build-up of lipids -- a type of fat that accumulates as the body's tissue gets older -- and thus aid in reversing ageing, revealed a study Friday.

A team of scientists from Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), in the Netherlands, conducted the study on both humans and mice.

Their results, published in the journal Nature Aging, revealed the presence of specific lipids that indicate tissue ageing and which can be decreased through exercise.

"The idea that we could reverse ageing is something that was long considered science fiction, but these findings do allow us to understand a lot more about the ageing process," said Riekelt Houtkooper, Professor at the laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases of Amsterdam UMC.

"Everyone says that 'it's just part of getting older,' but this doesn't actually have to be true. By understanding more about the ageing process, we can also look into new ways of intervening," added Georges Janssens, Assistant professor at Amsterdam UMC.

For the study in mice, the team investigated how the composition of fats caused changes in muscles, kidneys, liver, and heart.

They found a type of lipid, the bis (monoacylglycero) phosphates (or BMPs), were elevated in all tissues from the older animals.

The team also found a similar accumulation of BMP in muscle biopsies of older adults. But biopsies after one hour of exercise daily revealed a decrease in the level of BMPs, stressing the importance of exercise.

However, further studies are needed to ascertain the role of physical activity in reversing the process of ageing, the team said.
Bhopal, April 12 : BJP president Jagat Prakash Nadda on Friday said the INDI alliance is demanding a caste-based survey, but its real agenda is to divide the people in the name of caste and creed.

The BJP president said the opposition has nothing to say to the people of this country and therefore, they came up with the idea of caste-based survey.

"BJP wasn't against the caste-based survey in the country, instead we stand with the proposal, but their (opposition's) purpose is to divide the people, which the BJP won't allow ever," he said.

Addressing a public rally in Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency, the BJP chief said Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised on GYAN. Elaborating further, he said G stands for 'gareeb' (poor), Y for 'yuva' (youth), A stands for 'annadata' (farmer) and N for 'nari- shakti' (women empowerment).

"Before 2014, India's politics used to be based on caste, colour, region and religion, which has changed. Politics of appeasement will no longer stand in the country. Congress has always played politics of appeasement, now they are exposed and they have nothing to say to the people," he claimed.

He appealed to the citizens of Chhindwara to elect BJP's Vivek Banti Shahu as their Lok Sabha MP, to make an end to "parivarvad".

"All the opposition parties are busy in launching their family members and Nakul Nath is one of them. I would appeal to the citizens of Chhindwara to elect a BJP candidate as your MP this time," he added.

The BJP chief addressed two public rallies in Sidhi and Chhindwara in Madhya Pradesh, and both the constituencies will go for poll in the first phase on April 19.

MP's four other Lok Sabha seats which will go to polls in the first phase are - Jabalpur, Mandla, Shahdol and Balaghat.
Jaipur, April 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated on Friday that the Consitution is like a holy scripture for every Indian that will never be harmed, as he accused the Congress of spreading lies in the name of the Constitution only to abuse him.

Addressing an election rally in Rajasthan's Barmer, PM Modi said, "No one can change or harm the Constitution. The Constitution is like Bhagavad Gita, Quran, Ramayan, or Bible for the people of the country, which can never be harmed."

Attacking the Congress for its claims that the BJP will 'tinker' with the Constitution if it returns to power at the Centre for a third term, the Prime Minister said when the Congress was in power, it opposed the decision to celebrate Constitution Day.

"It was an insult to Babasaheb Ambedkar. The Congress is spreading lies in the name of the Constitution only to abuse me," PM Modi said.

He also said the Congress is back at playing its old tricks as the elections are near by lying about changing the Constitution in BJP's third term.

"The Congress did not accord Bharat Ratna to Ambedkar. The party made him lose the elections, and now it is lying in the name of the Constitution to abuse Modi," he said.

He also said the Congress' mindset is against the development of the bordering villages.

"The border areas were deprived of development during the Congress rule. But our priority is the development of the bordering villages," PM Modi said.

He also accused the Congress of delaying the Barmer refinery work, saying it would have been inaugurated by now had the Congress not been in power.

"I would have inaugurated the Barmer Refinery during my second tenure had the Congress government not been in power in Rajasthan. However, I now guarantee that I will come here to inaugurate the refinery in my third tenure, which will open up employment opportunities for a large number of people," he said.

Comparing Barmer with Kutch in Gujarat, the Prime Minister said, "Kutch had similar conditions. However, we worked hard there. Today, land rates in Mumbai are equal to the rates in Kutch. We will now work hard the way we did in Kutch to develop Barmer."

He also said that Barmer would have had an airport by now had there been no Congress government in the state.

Taking a dig at Congress' election manifesto, the Prime Minister said, "Their manifesto reflects an imprint of the Muslim League. It says they will destroy India's nuclear weapons. Can a country like India, whose neighbours on both sides are armed with nuclear weapons, survive without them?

"For whom the Congress is working? Do they want to make India powerless? Under whose pressure does this alliance want to destroy our nuclear weapons? I am trying to make India powerful, but the INDI alliance only wants to weaken the country," PM Modi said.

Stating that the entire India is saying '4 June, 400 Paar' and 'Phir Ek Bar, Modi Sarkar', the Prime Minister said that Barmer is the constituency of late BJP leader Jaswant Singh where people always told him to teach a lesson to India's enemies, and that is why ensuring the party's victory in Barmer is his responsibility.

PM Modi also said that the Congress ruled for more than six decades, yet it couldn't resolve a single issue comprehensively.

"Rajasthan has sacrificed a lot for India, but the Congress deprived the state of water for decades. Our government will prioritise drinking water through the Jal Jeevan Mission," PM Modi said.

He also said the BJP worships 'Shakti' but the 'Shehzada' (Rahul Gandhi) of the Congress wanted to destroy it by opposing the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple (in Ayodhya) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

"It shows the Congress' tendency to disrespect India's vibrant culture," PM Modi said.
Panaji, April 12 : Occupants of around 22 houses in Sangolda village of North Goa have threatened to boycott Lok Sabha elections after a demolition squad began to raze their houses on Friday.

Constructed on comunidade land, these people were fighting a legal battle to save their houses, however the High Court of Bombay at Goa had dismissed their petition. These locals have claimed that they have been staying here for the last 40 years.

Tension prevailed in the area after the demolition squad arrived at the site in the morning, however locals could not deter them from carrying out demolition due to the presence of heavy police force.

Speaking to IANS, BJP's Saligao MLA Kedar Naik said that he tried to help these 22 families at the government level, but could not save their houses.

"We had also given a proposal to the 'Attorney of Comunidade' to pay them twice the price for the piece of land to save the houses of these families. But they didn't agree to it. We had taken matter even to the Supreme Court, but we could not save these houses," Naik said.

"Presently we don't have any rehabilitation scheme, else we would have rehabilitated them. At my level, I tried to help them," he said.

While vacating the houses, members of these families were venting anger against the government for not helping them. "We have all documents issued by the local panchayat, now what is the use of these documents when our houses are getting demolished," they said.

"Politicians used us only for votes. Now for this Lok Sabha election, we will not vote. We will boycott this election," perturbed youths said.
New Delhi, April 12 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will meet AAP National Convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in Tihar Jail on April 15, prison sources said on Friday.

The decision was taken on Friday at an advance security liaison meeting, which started at around 11 a.m. and continued till late afternoon involving the Additional DGP, Punjab, Delhi Police, and Tihar administration officials.

The sources said the Punjab CM will meet Kejriwal -- who is in judicial custody for his alleged involvement in the excise policy case -- in the prison between 9 a.m. and 12 noon on April 15.

"No special arrangement has been made for the meeting, which will be held as per the jail manual. Today's meeting was held to discuss the security arrangements to be made for the Punjab CM," said a source, adding that this is a mandatory practice as per the jail manual before any CM visits the prison to meet an inmate.

Kejriwal, who was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the alleged excise policy scam, is lodged in Jail No. 2.

As per sources, Kejriwal has provided a list of six individuals, including Bhagwant Mann, whom he intends to meet in prison.
New Delhi, April 12 : India on Friday issued a travel advisory for its citizens, advising them not to travel to Iran and Israel "till further notice" due to the escalating tension in the region.

"In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice," the travel advisory issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

"All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves. They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.

Several other countries have also issued similar travel advisories for their citizens over the last 24 hours, warning them not to travel to the region due to security reasons.

The French Foreign Ministry advised its citizens to "refrain absolutely from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israeli or Palestinian territories, in the coming days."
Lucknow, April 12 : Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav on Friday said that the realisation of the strength of farmers had made the BJP government at the Centre scrap the three "black" farm laws.

Launching his election campaign from Pilibhit, he said the people of Pilibhit have made up their minds to defeat the BJP and the ruling party is scared.

"The faces of BJP people turn 'peela' (yellow) on hearing the name of Pilibhit," he said.

The SP President also attacked the BJP government over the issue of electoral bonds and demonetisation. "Tell me if this electoral bond and the demonetisation are not ways to turn black money into white. They have made all their black money into white," he alleged.

The Samajwadi Party has pitted Bhagwat Sharan Gangwar against Jitin Prasada of the BJP and Anis Ahmed of the BSP in this seat. Pilibhit, which has over 18 lakh voters, will go to polls in the first round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections on April 19.

The Samajwadi Party, Congress and All India Trinamool Congress are contesting the polls in Uttar Pradesh as part of the INDIA alliance.
Chandigarh, April 12 : Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Parambans Romana on Friday asked Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to explain the underhand deal he had arrived at with Congress leader Sukhpal Khaira by agreeing not to prosecute him, even as he asserted the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Congress and the BJP were making unholy alliances to put up joint candidates against the Akali Dal.

Romana said it was shocking the state government had given an undertaking in the Supreme Court that it would not proceed with the trial against Khaira in the 2015 drugs case, even though the government had formed a Special Investigating Team (SIT) to reinvestigate the case and announced that incriminating evidence had been found against Khaira.

Asking the Chief Minister as to why he was defending an alleged "drug trafficker" in the Supreme Court, Romana in a statement said "this is being done despite the fact that the chargesheet filed against Khaira in the drug case states that he had made 78 calls to drug trafficker Gurdev Singh and had also spent Rs 6.50 crore above his known sources of income".

Asserting that all this was due to the INDIA bloc of which AAP was a part, the Akali Dal leader said: "Bhagwant Mann is on record to have praised Sonia Gandhi even more than the Congress leaders with whom he shared the stage in Delhi recently."

He said it was a fact that AAP was in alliance with the Congress party in Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat.

"An official alliance could not be effected in Punjab but now the AAP government in Punjab has decided to help Sukhpal Khaira, who is desirous of contesting from Sangrur by stopping the trial in the drugs case in which he is accused."

He said in return, the AAP would receive help from the Congress on specific seats.

Asking the Chief Minister to explain his flip-flop on this issue, Romana said: "Mann has said on record in the Vidhan Sabha that despite being named in a drugs case in 2015, Khaira had used his influence in the previous Congress government to evade justice and asserted that now he would have to face the law."

Romana said AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal had also while referring to Khaira announced that all drug traffickers would be sent to jail.

He also asked the Chief Minister to explain his stand on corruption.
Kalaburagi : , April 12 (IANS) Mallikarjun Kharge's son-in-law Radhakrishna Doddamani submitted his nomination for the high-profile Kalaburagi seat in Karnataka on Friday. Addressing a mega rally after the nomination filing, the AICC President appealed to the voters to avenge his defeat in the 2019 General Election by voting for the Congress

Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar and Minister for RDPR, IT/BT Priyank Kharge were present on the occasion.

Winning the Kalaburagi seat is crucial for Mallikarjun Kharge's family from this seat to maintain their stature in the state as well as in national politics.

Mallikarjun Kharge had lost the General Election in 2019 from this seat against the BJP candidate Umesh Jadhav. Radhakrishna Doddamani is facing Umesh Jadhav this time.

Addressing a mega rally in Kalaburagi after the nomination, the AICC President appealed to the voters to avenge his defeat in the 2019 General Election by voting for the Congress.

"Even after seeing the development work, voters forget Kharge once they enter polling booths. But, this time don't make that mistake and ensure the victory of Radhakrishna Doddamani", he stated.

Kharge stated that this was not the election of Radhakrishna Doddamani or the Congress party but it was the election for saving the Constitution and democracy of India.

He also challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to show development by the BJP government in the region.

"I had requested for building an AIIMS in this region. But, I don't know if my request was rejected by the central government. The railway zone sanctioned during my tenure has been cancelled. Let them show 10 per cent of the development that I carried out in this region, I will congratulate them," Kharge stated.

"I have established a central university, developed national highways, brought 37 new trains, and sanctioned a textile park. After carrying out development, I am asking for votes. If you want development, vote for Congress," Kharge stated.

"BJP has a washing machine. Those sent to prison on charges of corruption are projected as clean and genuine once they join the BJP. They wash off their sins," Kharge charged.

Kharge further stated that if the Congress party was voted to power, all promised guarantees would be implemented.

Dy CM Shivakumar made an appeal to voters to elect Radhakrishna Doddamani for all the development works carried out by Mallikarjun Kharge and for implementing Article 371 J, which provides special status to the region.

"Kharge Sahib and CM Siddaramaiah together planned the guarantee schemes. I and Siddaramaiah have kept our word. If voted to power, the guarantees will be implemented at the national level. Like how, the Congress party was given 135 seats in Assembly polls, I request voters to ensure victory of the party in more than 25 seats in Lok Sabha polls. Vote for Radhakrishna and strengthen the hands of Mallikarjun Kharge," Shivakumar stated.
New Delhi, April 12 : A woman in north Delhi was drugged by her domestic servant, who subsequently ransacked the residence and fled with around Rs 20 lakh in cash along with jewellery, a police official said on Thursday.

According to the FIR, accessed by IANS, Bhawna Gupta, 52, residing on the second floor of a house in Kamla Nagar, in her complaint stated that on April 9, after her husband left for his office and both her daughters also left, she asked the maid, Kajal, to prepare food around 2 p.m.

The maid brought the food and served it to Gupta but refused to eat herself, citing stomach pain as an excuse.

According to Gupta, after eating, she started watching TV in her room but fainted. When her younger daughter returned from college around 5:15 p.m., she found her mother unconscious and informed other members of the family.

"By that time, we understood that my maid Kajal had made me unconscious by mixing something in my food and had committed theft in my house. Subsequently, my family admitted me to Sant Parmanand Hospital for treatment, from where I have now returned home," she said, as per the FIR.

Gupta upon returning home from the hospital, found that cash amounting to approximately Rs 20 lakh along with gold, silver, and diamond jewellery, including some ancestral pieces, were missing from her locker.

She said that she would provide police with the details of the missing items later.

A senior police official said that they obtained the MLC and the Crime team has inspected the scene.

"An FIR under Sections 328 (Causing hurt by means of poison, etc., with intent to commit an offence) and 381 (Theft by clerk or servant of property in possession of master) of the Indian Penal Code has been registered at Roop Nagar police station and police teams are tracing the culprits," the official said.
At least 17 Pakistani pilgrims die in bus crash while travelling for Eid celebrations

Relatives of religious pilgrims, who died in a truck accident, mourn in Karachi (AFP/Getty)

A bus carrying dozens of people to a pilgrimage on Eid fell into a deep ditch in Pakistan, killing at least 17 people.

The accident took place in the western Balochistan province on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the provincial government, Shahid Rind, said.

The pilgrims were travelling to a holy site on the first day of the Eid ul-Fitr celebrations when Muslims break their Ramadan fast.

At least 17 people were confirmed dead and 16 more people were injured, officials told local media. Thirty-three people were on the bus.

Two children were among the injured.

The driver lost control of the bus in Las Bela district at a bend and the vehicle fell into a ravine, some 25km from the Muslim Sufi shrine Shah Noorani the pilgrims were heading to.

The remote shrine is located in the Khuzdar district of Balochistan, the third largest city of the province.

The injured were taken to the Civil Hospital in nearby Sindh province and undergoing treatment but at least 15 people were in serious condition, officials said. Five people had severe head inuries.

People wait to collect the body of their relative who were died in a bus crash, at a morgue in Karachi, Pakistan (AP)

The accident occurred near the Sindh-Balochistan border, just 100km from Karachi  one of Pakistans bustling metropolitans.

All the passengers belonged to Thatta town in the Sindh province and many were from the same family, officials said on Thursdsy after the bodies were identified in the hospital.

They were all very poor people, Sindh chief minister Murad Ali Shah said, describing them as labourers who had been travelling by truck.

Eid is usually the busiest time in Pakistan when millions of people travel for pilgrimage or leisure after the month-long Ramadan fast.
Kozhikode : , April 12 (IANS) Fatima, mother of Abdul Rahim, who is on death row in Saudi Arabia, cannot hide her happiness as a staggering Rs 30 crore, of blood money to save him from execution, has been raised through crowdfunding.

Abdul Rahim requires another Rs 4 crore as a court in Saudi Arabia ruled in October last year that if he pays Rs 34 crore as blood money to the family of the victim, then he will be free. The last date for the payment of the blood money is April 18.

His house here is buzzing with activity after Fatima last month issued a passionate plea seeking help from all to save her son.

First, the local mosques came to her support and soon when the media took it up, an action committee to save the life of Abdul Rahim was formed and an app seeking contributions from all kind-hearted souls from across the globe was created.

"On March 19, we were able to raise only Rs 1 crore and on Friday, we touched Rs 30.11 crore. At the moment, we have decided to stop as it was decided to do an audit. We will resume it again later in the day and given the fantastic response that we saw, we are confident we will be able to achieve the target and Abdul Rahim and his mother will be able to meet soon," a representative of the group behind this crowdfunding venture said.

An auto driver here, Abdul Rahim was drawn to the Gulf to make more money. He reached Saudi Arabia in 2006 and got a job as a personal driver-cum-care taker of a 15-year-old physically challenged boy, who also had a medical ailment where he breathed through an external device connected to his body.

The boy, according to Abdul Rahim, misbehaved with him while he was driving and as he was trying to quieten him, his hand accidentally touched the external medical device and it fell down and the boy died.

A court in Saudi Arabia sentenced him for murder and the appeal court upheld this verdict in 2022, a decision later confirmed by the countryas Supreme Court.

Then following numerous discussions with the Saudi family, they settled for blood money and the last date for it is April 18.

An elated Fatima thanked each and every one who came to her support.

"I just cannot describe what I am feeling now as something which we felt might not be achieved is about to be achieved. All I can say is I am thankful to each and everyone," said Fatima, who is eagerly hoping that she can see her son soon.
Kolkata, April 12 : As the campaign for the Lok Sabha polls picks up pace in West Bengal, the BJP is leaving no stone unturned to target the ruling Trinamool Congress for fielding at least three 'turncoat' candidates who continue to be BJP legislators on paper.

As per the official records of the state Assembly, the three Trinamool nominees from Raiganj in North Dinajpur district, Bangaon in North 24 Paraganas district, and Ranaghat in Nadia district are all BJP legislators who joined the ruling party after the 2021 Assembly elections.

In Raiganj, the Trinamool has given the ticket to Krishna Kalyani, the sitting BJP MLA from the Raiganj Assembly constituency. Similarly, the party has fielded Biswajit Das from Bangaon, who is the sitting BJP legislator from the Bagda Assembly seat. In Ranaghat, the ruling party candidate is Mukut Manu Adhikari, the BJP legislator from the Ranaghat Dakshin Assembly constituency.

All three Trinamool nominees joined the ruling party after securing victory in the 2021 Assembly elections on BJP tickets. As per Assembly records, they continue to be BJP legislators despite their shift in loyalty.

The BJP is now raising the 'turncoat' issue in almost all its election rallies in West Bengal, questioning the rationale behind these three leaders contesting the Lok Sabha polls while keeping intact their membership as BJP legislators.

The BJP leaders are also citing the example of its party candidate from the Kolkata Uttar Lok Sabha constituency, Tapas Roy. A six-time MLA, Roy resigned as a Trinamool legislator and also quit his party membership before officially joining the BJP recently.

Now the BJP is asking why can't the Trinamool candidates from Raiganj, Bangaon, and Ranaghat show similar 'political honesty' like Roy and contest the Lok Sabha polls only after resigning as opposition MLAs.

According to the leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, one shouldn't expect political morality from the Trinamool.

"Those discarded by the BJP are now assets for the Trinamool, which lost all three seats in question in 2019. And fielding our discards as Trinamool nominees will not help them this time as well," Adhikari said.

The CPI-M leadership, meanwhile, claimed that shifting political camps between the Trinamool and BJP is so frequent that it will soon become difficult to say which leader belongs to which party.

On their part, the three 'turncoat' candidates share a common logic to back their political switch, saying their decision was prompted by the fulfillment of promises made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee before the 2021 Assembly elections, as they wanted to be a part of the development process.

Das went one step ahead to claim that although he got elected on a BJP ticket, his emotional bonding was always with Chief Minister Banerjee.
New Delhi, April 12 : The Delhi High Court has affirmed that travel information constitutes personal data and cannot be disclosed to third parties under the Right to Information Act, 2005 unless there is a compelling public interest.

Justice Subramonium Prasad reiterated this principle while dismissing a plea filed by Mumbai twin blast case death row convict Ehtesham Qutubuddin Siddiqui, who sought travel details of a witness.

Siddiqui's request for information on a witness's travel from Mumbai to Hong Kong was denied by the Central Information Commission (CIC) and the Bureau of Immigration, citing exemptions under the RTI Act.

The CIC ruled that disclosing third-party information fell under Section 8(1)(j) of the Act, which protects personal privacy.

Justice Prasad upheld the CIC's decision, stating that it was not unreasonable to withhold third-party information. He said that Siddiqui is open to seek the information through appropriate legal channels, such as Section 391 of the CrPC if it was not part of the criminal court record.
Jammu, April 12 : Jammu Srinagar National Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic due to the stone slide at Khooni Nalah, officials said on Friday.

"NH-44 blocked due to stone slide at Khooni Nalah," Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police said.

The Traffic Police said that people are advised to avoid the journey on NH-44 till the road is clear.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is the lifeline of the Kashmir Valley and the main road link connecting Kashmir.

Kashmir-bound trucks laden with essential supplies and other vehicles pass through the highway.
Kochi, April 12 : The Kerala High Court on Friday refused to give any relief to mining company CMRL's CMD Sasidharan Kartha and asked him to appear before the Enforcement Directorate probing the money laundering case involving the IT firm of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan.

The Courtas directive came a day after the top officials of CMRL who were asked to appear before the ED on Thursday and Friday failed to turn up.

Kartha, who was served a notice to appear before the ED on Monday, on Friday, filed a petition in the court stating that since he has done no wrong, the summons served to him should be quashed.

But when the ED told the court that the probe had just started, the court agreed with its argument and dismissed Kartha's petition.

This case is already being probed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), which had reached the office of CMRL and took statements from their top officials.

The Kochi office of the ED filed an ECIR in the case last month. The ECIR is similar to the FIR lodged by the police for cognizable offences.

This issue was first raised last year by Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan, based on a media report, which quoted an Income Tax Department officer as saying that Veena Vijayan's IT firm Exalogic had received Rs 1.72 crore from the mining company CMRL, in which the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) has around 13 per cent stake.

When the SFIO began its probe, the KSIDC approached the Kerala High Court seeking a stay, which was disallowed.

Veena Vijayan, whose IT firm was based in Bengaluru and is now not in operation, approached the Karnataka High Court seeking a stay but was disallowed.

Vijayan and the CPI-M, of late, are tight-lipped on this issue, after initially dismissing all charges as baseless.

Now with the court refusing to give any relief to Kartha, itas just a matter of time before Veena could be served a notice by the ED. With the Lok Sabha polls around the corner, it could be a shocker for Vijayan and the CPI-M.
Kolkata, April 12 : The Calcutta High Court on Friday slapped a show-cause notice on the officer-in-charge of a local police station for refusing to register an FIR against a Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha candidate accused of corruption.

The single-judge bench of Justice Jay Sengupta issued the show-case notice to the officer-in-charge of the Mathurapur police station in South 24 Parganas district on charges of refusing to register an FIR against the Trinamool candidate from the Mathurapur Lok Sabha constituency, Bappi Mondal, and his wife Shili Das.

While issuing the notice, Justice Sengupta also referred to the filing of a counter FIR against a team of NIA officers at Bhupatinagar in East Midnapore district, which was reportedly attacked on April 6 while returning from there after arresting two local Trinamool leaders in connection with a blast in December 2022 that killed three persons.

"In Bhupatinagar, the counter FIR was filed within a day based only on a complaint filed by the family members of one of the two arrested persons. But in this case, no FIR has been registered even after a month despite the nature of the complaint being quite serious," Justice Sengupta observed.

The officer-in-charge in question has been directed to reply to the show-cause within the next 15 days.

The bench also directed the Superintendent of Police of Sunderbans district to ensure the security and safety of the complainants.
New Delhi, April 12 : Delhi Police on Friday claimed to have busted a gang of thieves, who used to target passengers travelling in the metro and arrested five women, an official said.

The accused, all residents of Anand Parbhat, used to carry infants in lap to divert attention or to pick up quarrels from fellow passengers on the pretext of raising false allegations.

According to police on April 9, one woman reported that while she was travelling by metro train on the blue line between Rajiv Chowk Metro Station and Rajendra Place Metro Station, her purse containing Rs 50,000 cash was stolen by some unknown persons.

During the probe, the police team scanned the CCTV cameras and tracked the movement of the victim till she boarded the Metro train on the blue line towards Rajendra Place.

"Thereafter the CCTV footage of Metro bogey was checked and it was apparent that five women surrounded the complainant from all sides in the crowd. Surprisingly, two of them were carrying infants in their laps and both were trying to divert the attention of the complainant," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (metro) KPS Malhotra.

The police team then followed suspects' movements at R K Ashram Marg where they were seen exiting from the station and boarding in an autorickshaw.

"All the accused women were nabbed, on the basis of specific information, from the Connaught Place area on April 10 when they were moving towards Metro station Rajiv Chowk," said the DCP.

On interrogation, the accused revealed that all of them joined together to operate in a group with the common intention of committing theft at crowded Metro stations.

"Each of the accused persons had specified a role in the group and all of them operate in unison. The accused would mainly target unsuspecting women travellers. All the arrested accused persons were already found involved in several cases of theft inside metro trains," the DCP added.
Kolkata, April 12 : A major portion of the money earned by suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan from land-grabbing at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district was shown as investments in his brother Sheikh Alamgir's business, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) informed a special PMLA court here on Friday.

After Alamgir and two other close associates of Shahjahan, Shibu Hazra and Didarbux Molla, were produced before the special court on Friday, the ED counsel told the court how the arrested accused channelised the crime proceeds into his brother's business.

According to the ED counsel, the money earned from farmland grabbing was first transferred to the fish exports business registered in the name of Shahjahanas daughter, and subsequently, a portion of that money amounting to over Rs 2 crore was transferred to the business account of Alamgir and shown as investments.

The ED counsel also claimed that although the amount transferred was shown on paper as investments in the fish exports business, in reality, no exports were done which makes it a clear case of money laundering.

The ED counsel also updated the court about the huge amounts transferred to the bank accounts of Shibu Hazra and Didarbux Molla.

After hearing the arguments, the court remanded Alamgir, Hazra, and Molla to ED custody till April 22.
Gurugram April 12 : Gurugram district administration on Friday issued a fresh set of guidelines asking schools to either ensure the safety of students in school buses or lose affiliation.

Gurugram Deputy Commissioner (DC) Nishant Kumar Yadav said this while addressing the meeting of officers in Gurugram on Friday.

Haryana Chief Secretary T.V.S.N. Prasad also ordered the DC, Superintendent of Police (SP) and other officers of all the districts of the state including Gurugram through video conference that school vehicles should be checked in every district in the next ten days.

"The school management and the head of the affiliated schools will be held responsible for any lapse in this regard, which could invite appropriate action, including the disaffiliation of the school as per the provisions under affiliation by-laws," Yadav said.

Apart from the school buses, the concerned private school management will also be responsible for the safety of the private vehicles in which the parents send their children, he said.

The DC also said all school vehicles and their drivers will be inspected extensively in Gurugram. Any school vehicle found not safe will be confiscated and legal action will be taken.

The latest warning by the district administration comes after the recent major school bus accident in Kanina in the Mahendergarh district which claimed several student's lives.

Meanwhile, while checking the school buses on Friday the Gurugram Police fined 16 buses and 11 buses were impounded that failed to complete guidelines.

At present, there are about 527 private schools and 2,600 school buses in the rural and urban areas of the district.

The Surakshit School Vahan Policy lists some basic norms that school buses must meet. These include CCTV cameras in buses with storage of footage for 15 days, speed governors, contact numbers on the front and back of buses, reflective strips and the presence of a lady attendant in the buses.

The police also mandate that a driver have at least two years of driving experience. A fitness certificate from the civil surgeon is also required.

The drivers are strictly prohibited from using their mobile phones as well as interacting with passengers on board while driving.

In addition to this, the bus should have a Regional Transport Authority (RTA) clearance certificate, insurance and pollution certificate. The schools will have to ensure bus parking inside their premises and that the students are boarded and dropped within the premises, as per the policy.

Moreover, no school bus is allowed to increase the speed above 50 kilometres per hour, all school buses should have a fire extinguisher and first-aid box and all bus drivers should undergo medical tests every three years.

A driver who has been challaned even once for the offence of over-speeding, driving dangerously or being charged under sections of the Indian Penal Code for any accidents, cannot be employed.

The Transport Department's helpline number and registration number of the vehicle shall be displayed at prominent places inside and outside the bus in contrasting colours.
FOR BHUPI SIR--President Droupadi Murmu to inaugurate homoeopathic symposium on Wednesday. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, April 12 : President Droupadi Murmu on Friday extended greetings to people on the eve of Vaisakhi, Vishu, Bishub, Bahag Bihu, Poila Boishakh, Vaishakhadi and Puthandu.

President Murmu in a message said, "On the auspicious occasion of Vaisakhi, Vishu, Bishub, Bahag Bihu, Poila Boishakh, Vaishakhadi and Puthandu, I extend warm greetings and good wishes to all Indians living in India and abroad."

The President said these festivals celebrated in various parts of India are vibrant expressions of our diverse cultural heritage.

"These festivals promote unity, harmony and brotherhood. All these festivals as symbols of social harmony, generate new energy and enthusiasm into our lives," the President said.

The President added that through these festivals, 'we honour the hard work of our 'Annadata' farmers'.

"May these festivals bring prosperity and peace in everyone's life," the President said.
President Joe Biden announced a sweeping new round of student-debt cancellation measures at a Monday appearance at a community college in Madison, Wisconsin, aiming to provide at least some student debt relief to nearly 1 in 10 Americans.

Specifically, the administration intends to, among other things, cancel interest payments for some 25 million Americans who owe more money in student debt now than they did when they first took the loans out; cancel the debts of over 2 million Americans who are eligible for debt forgiveness through federal programs like the SAVE Plan but are not yet taking advantage of it; and forgive the loans of about 2 million Americans with student debts that are older than 20 years. Combined with prior measures, Bidens plans mean he will have reduced student debt for 30 million people.

When I think about all the possibility and all the potential we can unlock when young people see that they can afford and access higher education, I think this work is nothing short of transformative, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona told reporters on a press call Sunday night. Thats why were unapologetic about this fight. Student loan forgiveness isnt only about relief for todays borrowers. Its about social mobility, economic prosperity and creating an America that lives up to its highest ideals.

Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images

The administrations proposed interest cancellation alone would have sweeping effects. Households of all incomes would be eligible for up to $20,000 in forgiven interest payments, and two-person households making up to $240,000 would be able to have their entire accrued interest forgiven regardless of size.

Overall, due to this newest set of changes, the Biden administration estimates that more than 10 million people would get over $5,000 in debt forgiven, including 4 million people who would have their outstanding debts entirely forgiven.

The 30 million people affected reflects the sum of those reached by Mondays proposals and the 4 million people who have already received more than $143 billion in relief. The biggest chunk of borrowers already benefiting from relief are public-service workers in the government or nonprofit sectors who qualify for loan forgiveness under a Bush-era law.

Peopleimages / Getty Images

As with any new regulations, the latest debt relief measures will take time to formulate and implement. The Biden administration expects Mondays proposals to begin taking effect in the early fall, though officials would not provide a specific month or set of dates when the rollout would be complete.

Its unclear whether the impact of the student-debt relief measures will be felt fast enough to benefit Biden in the November election.

Some polls show Biden struggling to maintain Democrats traditional advantage with voters under age 35, though some experts believe that the polling cross-tabs are not as accurate as the top-line results.

Bidens trip to Madison, where he spoke at Madison Area Technical College, is part of a broader youth outreach effort on Monday that aims to spread the word of his existing and forthcoming student-debt relief plans.This post originally appeared on HuffPost.
Palghar/Mumbai, April 12 : Shiv Sena (UBT) President and ex-Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Friday did what millions of Mumbaikars do daily -- hop onto a Mumbai suburban local train for a quicker commute home.

Along with party MP Sanjay Raut, other leaders, and security staff, Thackeray hopped onto a train going from Dahanu in Palghar district to Bandra in the countryas commercial capital, around 110 km apart.

As hundreds of curious commuters gawked for a glimpse of the VVIP traveller among the commoners, Thackeray looked relaxed, though a tad bothered by the sweltering heat measuring around 33-degree Celsius.

After they boarded the crowded evening train, a prime window seat was arranged for him in the First Class compartment where he sat with Raut next to him, with the Mumbai Police personnel keeping a close watch around them.

As the train started for its usual long journey of approximately two hours from Dahanu to Mumbai, many commuters clicked videos, and tried to take selfies with Thackeray, while several television crews jostled for a perfect shot.

Some excited commuters also raised slogans in favour of Thackeray, making the commute quite noisy though nobody seemed to mind.

Earlier, Thackeray, Raut, and other party leaders visited the Palghar (ST) LS constituency to campaign for Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Bharti Kamdi, where the former CM launched a scathing attack against the MahaYuti government, and its constituents Shiv Sena, BJP, and NCP.
Jaipur, April 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a roadshow in Rajasthan's Dausa in support of the BJP's Lok Sabha candidate, Kanhaiyalal Meena.

A huge crowd was seen on both sides of the road during PM Modi's roadshow. People who had gathered to catch a glimpse of PM Modi sprinkled flower petals as his convoy passed.

PM Modi, who was moving in an open vehicle, greeted the people with folded hands.

During the roadshow, PM Modi called out BJP's Dausa district unit president Prabhudayal Sharma from the crowd and made him stand along with him in his vehicle.

The roadshow started from Gandhi Tiraha and concluded at Gupteshwar Circle. It covered a distance of 1.25 km in 50 minutes.

Earlier, on Friday afternoon, PM Modi had addressed a massive gathering in Barmer.

In Dausa Lok Sabha seat, BJP's Kanhaiyalal Meena has been fielded against Congress' Murarilal Meena -- a former state Cabinet minister who joined the Congress after resigning from the BSP.

Murarilal Meena is a Sachin Pilot loyalist.
Guwahati, April 12 : Assam minister Jayanta Mallabaruah said on Friday that campaigning for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the state could have been interesting if the opposition had some strength on the ground.

"I have been touring the upper Assam region for the past few days, and I have not seen any opposition on the ground. They are doing public meetings with hardly 50 to 100 people," Mallabaruah said.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is contesting the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha seat in upper Assam against Lurinjyoti Gogoi, the united opposition candidate.

Gogoi is the former President of the All Assam Students' Union (AASU), and the opposition leaders are claiming that he would pose a strong challenge to Sonowal.

However, Mallabaruah quashed this claim as he asserted that former Assam CM Sonowal would win by a huge margin.

"Sarbananda Sonowal is set to win from Dibrugarh by a margin of at least four lakh votes. Lurinjyoti Gogoi does not command any support on the ground," Mallabaruah said.

He also said the BJP nominee will defeat Congress' Gaurav Gogoi by a handsome margin in Jorhat.

"The Congress leader will be defeated by three lakh votes in Jorhat," he claimed.
Washington, April 12 : Newsweek's recent cover story marks a significant break from the widespread skepticism in the Western media about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's role in India's rise, and raises the question if an inflection point has been reached in this contentious relationship.

Many Western media outlets have been critical of Narendra Modi from his time as Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Newsweek's cover story -- titled 'Unstoppable' on the cover and "Modi's Moment: How Narendra Modi is Changing India and the World' inside -- seeks to explain the Prime Minister to the cynical Western audience and in a way prepares them for five more years of India under his leadership.

The UK's Financial Times considered the possibility of a third term in a December 2023 story based on an interview with the Prime Minister. It said if PM Modi wins again, it will be a "vindication for Modi's legions of supporters, who say he has built India's economy and global esteem, and improved hundreds of millions of people's lives".

The Prime Minister has done a few interviews with the foreign media.

He spoke to Walter Russel Mead, an academic who is also a columnist with The Wall Street Journal, in February, which is after The Economist and before the Newsweek interviews.

Mead wrote about PM Modi's "audacious plan" to marry Hindu nationalism with economic development, citing the tourism-led boom in Varanasi with the reopening of the access route to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, and the opening of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

"Just as cathedrals in medieval Europe promoted economic growth by attracting tourists and merchants, the Ram Mandir is intended to spark an economic boom," he wrote.

The Newsweek coverage is the lengthiest of the three, which is also more comprehensive where the Prime Minister's defence of his work and actions are well displayed.

Significantly, it also raises the question that most of his supporters are asking: When will the Prime Minister get a fair deal from the Western media?

The article quotes Norwegian politician and peace negotiator Erik Solheim, who posted a Morning Consult survey that showed PM Modi's approval rating at 78 per cent on X, and asked, "Maybe it is time for the Western media to give India and Modiji some positive coverage?"

There is also growing acknowledgment of the Prime Minister's role.

"The most visible improvements to India's economy are in infrastructure. Mr. Modi's gift for implementation has helped build up capacity exactly where India has missed it most," the New York Times noted in a report this month explaining India's growth story.

"The building boom started with transportation: The railways, ports, bridges, roads, airports. India is remaking itself rapidly. Some of the developments are truly eye-catching and are laying the tracks for faster growth. The hope is that local businesses will start investing more where the government has lent its muscle," it said.

It also noted India's rapid adaptation of technology in governance, saying: "This new organisation of India's data, combined with a dense and cost-effective mobile network, has brought efficiencies that grease the gears of commerce. India is proudly exporting the basic framework of its digital architecture to other countries."

The article also highlights India's growth in the context of the world's growing disenchantment with China-centric supply chains post the Covid-19 pandemic. And that small incremental increases in economic numbers are significantly larger because of its sheer size at $3.7 trillion.
Bengaluru, April 12 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday got a three-day transit remand of the two individuals arrested earlier in the day on the outskirts of Kolkata in connection with the March 1 blast at a cafe in Bengaluru.

The arrested individuals -- Abdul Mateen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazeb -- were on the run since the low-intensity explosion at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru.

Following the arrest, both were presented at a Special NIA Court in Kolkata that granted three days' transit remand to the agency.

Meanwhile, sources confirmed that the suspected bombers are being brought to Bengaluru.

Bringing to an end a month-long manhunt, the NIA had arrested the two absconding individuals, including the mastermind, in the Bengaluru cafe blast case after tracking them to their hideout near Kolkata.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib was identified by the NIA as the man who planted the IED at the cafe, while Abdul Mateen Taha was the mastermind behind the conspiracy, and had planned and executed the explosion, which left several customers and staff members at the cafe grievously injured.

It was Adbul Mateen who also worked on the escape plans and also managed to evade arrest all these weeks.

The duo, along with their co-accused Maaz Muneer Ahmed, were involved in terror cases earlier, the NIA said.

The NIA, which had taken over the case on March 3, had identified these two accused, along with Maaz Muneer Ahmad and Muzzamil Sheriff, as the persons who had played a pivotal role in the explosion, which took place on March 1.

Muzzamil Sheriff was involved in providing logistical support to the other two accused in carrying out the IED explosion, the NIA said.

On Friday, the agency finally traced the duo to Kolkata, after working in coordination with various other Central agencies and police departments of Karnataka, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

On learning that the terrorists were staying in a lodge near Kolkata under assumed identities, the NIA requested the West Bengal Police for assistance, leading to a successful culmination of the search operations and arrest of both accused.
Hyderabad, April 12 : AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi on Friday demanded that India stop "export" of Indian workers to Israel and bring back those who are already there.

The Hyderabad MP made the demand while reacting to the government's advisory to Indians not to go to Israel.

"Modi government has issued an advisory, asking Indians not to go to Israel. Why is India then sending Indians to Israel? If it's not safe, then why are Indians being sent to a deathtrap? Is (PM) Narendra Modi taking personal responsibility for their security?" he asked on X.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief said that Israel is "in the middle of committing a genocide and doesn't care about the safety of poor Indians".

"The export of Indian workers should be stopped immediately, and those already there should be brought back," he posted.

In another post, Owaisi claimed that the Chinese Foreign Ministry snubbed Prime Minister Modi and rebuffed his request, asking why he doesn't tell the country what the "prolonged situation" on the border is.
Agartala, April 12 : Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is scheduled to address an election rally and participate in a roadshow in Agartala on April 16, a party leader said on Friday.

The April 16 event would be the INDIA bloc's first major Lok Sabha poll campaign event in Tripura.

Congress Working Committee (CWC) member and former minister Sudip Roy Barman said that they were not getting sufficient vehicles to transport party supporters from far-flung areas of the state as vehicles were booked already by other parties.

"In view of the transportation related problems, we are unable to organise a big gathering in Agartala where Priyanka Gandhi can address the people. But she would address a small gathering in Agartala during the roadshow," he told the mediapersons.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed election rally in Agartala on April 17, Roy Barman said that he was confident that "sufficient vehicles" would be available for the ruling BJP on that day.

"The ruling side always has an advantage. We had enquired, but several vehicles were booked for campaigning. Often, they (transport operators) return advance money even after taking orders for vehicles," said Roy Barman, a sitting Congress MLA.

Meanwhile, the Congress leader compared the 2024 Lok Sabha elections with 'Dharmayuddha', saying 'dharma' and 'nyay' would eventually triumph.

In a multi-cornered contest, Tripura unit Congress chief Asish Kumar Saha is contesting in the Tripura West Lok Sabha seat against former Tripura Chief Minister and BJP candidate Biplab Kumar Deb.

Meanwhile, Tripura's erstwhile Manikya royal familyas scion Kriti Singh Debbarma is contesting from Tripura East (ST) constituency as BJP candidate against former CPI-M MLA and Left nominee Rajendra Reang.

Both Saha and Reang are INDIA bloc nominees.

The Tripura West and Tripura East Lok Sabha seats would be undergoing polling in two phases -- on April 19 and April 26, respectively.
Hyderabad, April 12 : Struggling to meet drinking water requirements during the scorching summer, Telangana will approach Karnataka for the release of water from Narayanpur dam across the Krishna river.

As there is no availability of water in the Krishna basin, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Friday asked the officials to consult the Karnataka government for the release of water from Narayanpur reservoir for drinking water needs.

The Chief Minister, who reviewed the drinking water situation in the state, directed the officials to take precautionary measures to prevent drinking water problems in all the towns and villages. He cautioned that the next two months will be more crucial in view of the scorching heat.

Although more drinking water is being supplied compared to last year, it is not enough to meet the water requirement of people, he observed.

The present situation has arisen due to the depletion of the groundwater level.

The CM alerted the officials to get ready with alternative arrangements even if the demand increases further without any disruption to the supply of drinking water in Hyderabad.

If necessary, water will be lifted from Nagarjuna Sagar dead storage to Hyderabad and appropriate arrangements should be made immediately.

Arrangements will also be made for the supply of Singur water to the city. The officials were asked to continuously monitor the supply of drinking water without interruption and rectify the complaints immediately.

The Chief Secretary will hold a review meeting on the drinking water supply every day with the top officials of Mission Bhagiratha, Municipal, Irrigation and Energy Departments. The special officers for drinking water supply for the combined districts have been directed to visit the places facing drinking water problems and take measures to solve the problem and bring it to the attention of the higher officials.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the paddy procurement. He warned that strict action would be taken against those who bought paddy from the farmers at lower prices and asked officials to crack down on the millers who cheated farmers.

The trade licenses of the millers and traders who buy paddy at low prices in the agricultural market yards will be cancelled and they will be blacklisted.

Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy and Information and Public Relations Minister P Srinivas Reddy also participated in the meeting.

Revanth Reddy said it came to his notice that traders and millers reduced the prices due to moisture content in the paddy in some places, and appealed to the farmers to dry the paddy, which contained higher levels of moisture, before bringing it to markets, to get a good price for their agricultural produce.

The officials have been asked to make suitable arrangements for drying the paddy and also install CCTVs in the market yards to prevent paddy theft.
Monaco, April 12 : Novak Djokovic continued his brilliant run as he moved to within just two wins of completing his third sweep of all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles on Friday, advancing to the semifinals of the Monte-Carlo Masters for the first time since triumphing in 2015.

In a tight clash against Australian Alex de Minaur, the World No. 1 was not at his fluid best but found the required level to earn a 7-5, 6-4 win. With his two-hour, four-minute victory, the Serbian avenged his recent defeat in the United Cup to the Australian to improve to 2-1 in the pairas ATP head-to-head series.

The 36-year-old, who on Sunday became the oldest No. 1 in ATP Rankings history, is chasing a record-extending 41st ATP Masters 1000 crown this week. Should he lift the trophy, it would mark the top seedas third sweep of all nine Masters 1000 tournaments.

In a tight clash on clay, Djokovic looked breathless at times on Court Rainier III, frequently slumping over after lengthy exchanges. However, as has been the way in his career, the top seed battled on and capitalised on errors from De Minaur on key points to eventually prevail.

The Australian committed five unforced errors when serving to stay in the first set at 5-6. Neither player could hold serve consistently in the second set, with seven breaks of serve in the set. Djokovic gained the decisive break in the 10th game to eventually prevail.

The World No. 1 has triumphed in Monte-Carlo in 2013 and 2015, but before this week had not gone past the quarterfinal stage since 2015. He will continue the quest for his first title of the year when he meets Frenchman Ugo Humbert or Norwegian Casper Ruud in the last four on Saturday.
Gondia : , April 13 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should get a third term as he is resolved to weed out corruption while the INDIA bloc leaders have come together to save the corrupt.

Speaking at a rally here, JP Nadda said: "This Lok Sabha election is not just an election to win... but a battle of two ideologies. The INDIA bloc's agenda is to remove PM Modi from power, oppose development, and protect the corrupt, while PM Modi is committed to speeding up development.

''It is time to decide whether to choose the one who will remove the corrupt or to elect the corrupt."

JP Nadda said this at a rally organised to garner support for BJP nominee Sunil Mendhe at Bhandara-Gondia LS seat in Maharashtra.

"PM Modi-led government has changed the face of the country's politics and has banished politics that was previously only done in the name of upper class, urban-rural and caste-religion. PM Modi has changed the definition of politics and now the politics of development has come to centre stage. On the issue of development and with the policy of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas', the politics of the country has got a new direction," the BJP chief said.

He further said PM Modi-led government worked for the poor, underprivileged, exploited, Dalits, youth, peasants and women to promote the overall development of the country.

JP Nadda also listed a slew of development initiatives implemented in the last 10 years to transform the country.

"Under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, a new era of development has started. The politics of upliftment of all sections of society has started in the country. GYAN has become the formula of development. 'G' means gareeb (poor), 'Y' means youth, 'A' means annadata (food giver) and 'N' means nari shakti (women's power), which is the formula of PM Modi's politics," he said.
Salman Rushdie: Author of Knife and The Satanic Verses reflects on 2022 attempt on his life

One of Britains foremost writers, Salman Rushdie has returned to the literary centre stage with the release of his hotly anticipated memoir, Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder.

The novel will recount the turbulent period of his life beginning with his horrific attack while preparing to deliver a lecture on free speech.

On 12 August 2022, Rushdie was about to give a talk at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state when an attacker rushed on stage and stabbed him in the neck, eye, stomach, thigh and chest. He underwent treatment in hospital for six weeks, and has been left blinded in one eye and with lost feeling in some fingertips.

The author, who was the subject of global storm after his 1988 novel The Satanic Verses was deemed blasphemous in parts of the Islamic world, has since written about the experience in a bid to expel a creative blockage preventing other works.

Early life

The novelist and short story writer, 76, began his life in Bombay in what was then British India, before moving to Rugby, England, to study at the age of 14  eventually graduating from Cambridge University with a degree in history.

Rushdies writing career, which has been heavily inspired by his Indian ancestry, had humble origins and his first book, Grimus, was released to minimal praise but acknowledged potential in 1975.

While working as a London-based copywriter for brands including Aero (Rushdie is credited with the irresistibubble tagline), he wrote the book that would cement his place in literary history, Midnights Children.

The 1981 novel not only won the Booker Prize that year but later won the Best of the Booker Prize in 2008.

Then, in 1988, the book that ultimately forced the author into hiding was released, The Satanic Verses.

Rushdie returns to the literary scene with a memoir recounting his violent attack

Controversy and hiding

The Satanic Verses is a magic realism novel that explores the age-old subjects of good and evil.

It features religious figures including the Devil, the Archangel Gabriel, and, of course, the Prophet Muhammad.

The latter proved controversial with Muslim readers, who dubbed the novel blasphemous for its derogatory depiction of the prophet.

The book was eventually banned in various countries, including South Africa and Pakistan.

After sparking a wave of violence that even saw bookshops firebombed, Rushdie was forced into hiding for the best part of a decade.

The outrage was so great that anyone associated with the books production also became a target. The writer who translated the novel into Japanese, Hitoshi Igarashi, was stabbed to death 1991  and the culprit remains at large.

Rushdie, meanwhile, continued to write in hiding and published various other novels, as well as short stories and even a 1990 novel for children, Haroun and the Sea of Stories.

While he did apologise for the offence The Satanic Verses caused, when he eventually stepped into the public eye again, he did so as as a proponent of free speech.

The book has been cited as the inspiration behind numerous acts of violence including a 1989 protest against the text at the American Cultural Center in Islamabad, Pakistan, where six people lost their lives and over 100 were injured.

Controversy: Salman Rushdie published The Satanic Verses in 1988 (PA)

Free speech

Rushdie became a public figure again after Irans government withdrew its formal support of the fatwa against him in 1998.

After the threat against his life lessened, he stepped into the world of film, appearing in the likes of Bridget Jones Diary (2001) and narrating the big screen adaptation of the novel that made him a household name, Midnights Children (2012)

Then, in 2012, he published his first memoir, Joseph Anton.

He wrote: The freedom to express oneself is a fundamental human right that should never be taken for granted.

2022 stabbing and ongoing trial

But even after the fatwa against was lifted, threats against Rushdies life persisted and culminated in the near-fatal stabbing that his the subject of his new memoir, Knife.

The 2022 attack was so severe that he was hospitalised for six weeks and ultimately lost the sight in his right eye.

After a period of recovery, he once again spoke out in favour of free speech, making a surprise appearance at the Pen America gala in New York last year.

He later said at the British Book Awards: Terrorism must not terrorise us. Violence must not deter us. A luta continua. The struggle goes on.

The trial against the perpetruator of the attack, Hadi Matar, who has pleaded not guilty, is currently postponed as his lawyer believes the contents of Rushdies new memoir could be used as evidence.
Aizawl, April 13 : Indian ambassador-designate to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, on Friday, held a meeting with Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati at the Raj Bhavan here and discussed India-Myanmar trade-related issues, an official said.

A senior Mizoram government official said that the Governor and Thakur discussed and exchanged their views on the relevant matters pertaining to the facilitation of trade between India and Myanmar.

Thakur apprised the Governor about what is being done currently, and what is in the pipeline for the India-Myanmar trade.

He also spoke about his meeting with the Chief Minister Lalduhoma.

A senior Indian Foreign Service officer, Thakur, served as Sous-Sherpa of the G20 during India's presidency where he remarked on its success in upgrading India's position at the international level.

He will officially take charge as the Indian Ambassador to Myanmar on April 29.

Mizoram's Zokhawthar in Champhai district is the lone border trading point with Myanmar, but the volume of trade is said to be low.
Jaipur, April 13 : The police in Rajasthan have so far seized 1,185 illegal weapons and collected more than 1.55 lakh licensed weapons since the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct last month, an official said on Friday.

Rajasthan Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Praveen Gupta said, as per the police, so far, 1,185 illegal weapons as well as 2,303 cartridges, 4,129 kg of explosive materials and 7 IEDs have been seized in the state.

A raid had also been conducted at an illegal arms manufacturing factory, he said.

Gupta further said that a total of 1,55,373 weapons have been deposited in various police stations out of a total 1,62,777 licensed weapons registered across the state.

A total of 1,692 arms licenses have been cancelled and 51 licensed arms have been confiscated.

According to Gupta, Rajasthan Police have identified a total of 1,400 settlements in various Lok Sabha constituencies as vulnerable.

Besides, 299 intra-state and 225 inter-state police checkpoints have been set up.

A total of 3,819 vigilance groups are also active in Rajasthan for free, fair, transparent and free elections from allurement and money power.
Hyderabad, April 13 : Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP K. Laxman on Friday alleged that Telangana's ruling Congress has entered into a secret deal with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) to ensure its victory in Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency.

The Rajya Sabha member claimed that the Congress is trying for the victory of AIMIM President and sitting MP Asaduddin Owaisi in the next monthas elections.

He told media persons that as the elections are coming closer, "fear and insecurity is gripping the Congress", alleging that it has failed to implement the promises made in the Assembly elections and has not yet waived farm loans, which has made the farmers angry.

He said the Congressas attempts to link all guarantees with the Lok Sabha elections were creating doubts and that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy was claiming a conspiracy against him to divert peopleas attention and get public sympathy.

Claiming that the BJP is ahead of other parties in campaigning, he exuded confidence that it will win most Lok Sabha seats in Telangana and also come to power in the state whenever elections are held.

Laxman remarked that despite the defeat in the Assembly elections, BRS leaders are still showing arrogance. Replying to a query, he said the BJP has no plans to change the candidates in Telangana.

He said the party would soon announce its candidate for the by-election to the Secunderabad Cantonment Assembly constituency.
Bhubaneswar, April 13 : Senior officers of Odisha and West Bengal police departments on Friday held a virtual inter-state coordination meeting to ensure free and fair elections in the districts located on the border of the two neighbouring states.

Senior officials of both states including Odisha DGP Arun Kumar Sarangi, his West Bengal counterpart Sanjay Mukherjee, and Superintendents of Police of border districts participated in the meeting.

Sarangi stressed on the need to check the illegal supply of contraband brown sugar from Bardhaman, Lalgola and Murshidabad areas of West Bengal into Odisha.

He sought proper coordination between the police personnel of both the states to arrest the big drug peddlers involved in the illegal trade.

The participants held a threadbare discussion over plans for rigorous inspection at the border check posts, raids on unlawful trade in excise products like alcohol, arms, drugs and illegal cash transactions.

The participants also emphasised on the need to ensure peaceful, violence-free and free and fair elections in border districts including Mayurbhanj and Balasore districts of Odisha.

The officials also deliberated on sharing of intelligence, arrest of interstate criminals etc. during the virtual meeting.
Jammu, Apr 13 : The first batch of 189 poll officials and 69 police staff were airlifted from the district headquarters in Jammu to the snow-bound areas of Marwah and Warwan in J&K's Kishtwar district, an official statement said on Friday.

Marwah, Warwan, and Machail are the remotest areas in Kishtwar district, which remain cut off for 3-4 months during the winters. There are 34 polling stations in these areas.

"Preparations are in full swing with elaborate security measures in place, including the deployment of Indian Air Forceas Mi-17 helicopters for the transportation of polling officers and the establishment of helipads," the statement said.

"The airlifting operation being conducted by three IAF helicopters is a collaborative effort between the Election Commission of India and the Indian Air Force," it added.

On Thursday, 188 security personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and J&K Police (JKP) were dispatched to the district

"The dispatch of polling staff will continue in a phased manner, prioritising the far-flung areas like Marwah, Warwan, Machail, etc.," the statement said.

Kishtwar falls under the Udhampur-Kathua Lok Sabha constituency, which will go to the polls on April 19 with 12 candidates in the fray.
Agartala, April 13 : The Election Commission on Friday cautioned BJP's Tripura East Lok Sabha candidate, Kriti Devi Debbarma, who had called the opposition CPI-M a "party of murderers".

Tripura East Lok Sabha seat's Returning Officer Saju Vaheed A., in a memorandum to Debbarma, said that she is "hereby warned to abstain from making such statement in future which violates the Model Code of Conduct, otherwise appropriate action will be taken as per the provision under Model Code of Conduct issued by the Election Commission of India".

The CPI-M's Tripura state Secretary Jitendra Choudhury on Tuesday lodged a complaint with Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar in this regard.

Choudhury, also the Leader of Opposition in Tripura, also sent video footage of the speech of Debbarma and other documents along with his complaint to the CEC.

The BJP candidate used the term during her speech at an election rally in northern Tripuraas Fatikroy on Monday.

Debbarma, a member of the erstwhile royal dynasty of Tripura, is the elder sister of Tipra Motha Party supremo and royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma.
Bengaluru, April 13 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is under pressure to ensure the victory of candidates of the Congress party on his home turf, Mysuru-Kodagu Lok Sabha constituency, and the neighbouring Chamarajanagar Parliamentary seat.

The Congress is facing formidable BJP opponents in both seats.

Taking no chances amid talks of the veteran Congress leader "gradually approaching the end of his CM term", Siddaramaiah has been sweating it out on both seats.

He had camped for four days to carry out campaigning in Mysuru district for his close aide M. Laxman, who is the Congress candidate for Mysuru-Kodagu segment.

CM Siddaramaiah campaigned throughout the day in Chamarajanagar Lok Sabha Constituency on Friday.

Sunil Bose, son of Minister for Social Justice HC Mahadevappa is the Congress candidate.

Mahadevappa is a close confidant of CM Siddaramaiah.

Knowing the challenges and consequences very well, the Chief Minister's son, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, has been working tirelessly in both constituencies.

The BJP had denied a ticket to sitting BJP MP Pratap Simha, a Vokkaliga leader, and fielded the royal scion Yaduveer Wadiyar.

CM Siddaramaiah, who vehemently opposed Mysuru royal family, is tight-lipped about Yaduveer Wadiyar and Mysuru kings, fearing backlash to his party.

He has also instructed party leaders not to make any comments.

According to political observers, Siddaramaiah is being careful about the polarisation of Vokkaliga and forward community (general case) votes in the Mysuru-Kodagu seat.

In this seat, which has about 15 lakh voters, Vokkaliga votes account for more than 4 lakh, followed by Lingayats, Dalits, and OBCs. There are 1.5 lakh Muslim and 1 lakh Brahmin voters.

Following the polarisation of Vokkaliga votes, CM Siddaramaiah suffered a humiliating defeat in the Assembly election in 2018 from Chamundeshwari Assembly seat in Mysuru district.

CM Siddaramaiah has now been making strategies to tap more than 2 lakh votes of Dalits, 2 lakh votes of OBCs, 1.3 lakh votes of Kurubas, 1 lakh votes of STs, 1.5 lakh Muslim votes, and voters from other communities including Christians.

Chamarajanagar Lok Sabha Seat is considered as the bastion of the Congress party as voters from oppressed classes dominate the numbers.

The BJP has fielded S. Balaraj, a close aide of former chief minister B.S. Yediyurappa from the seat.

Siddaramaiah is confident of winning the seat as there are 4.60 lakh Dalit votes, 2 lakh Scheduled Tribe voters, and 1.60 lakh voters of Kuruba community.

Siddaramaiah said on Friday in Chamarajanagar that the Congress had won 136 seats by getting 43 per cent of votes in the last assembly elections.

"The BJP won only 66 seats. The JD-S got 19 seats. Now both of them are afraid of this election. They have come together to face the Congress party without any ideology or programme. The only goal is to defeat the Congress party," he said.

According to political analysts, Siddaramaiah is under pressure to put up a good show on his own turf, mainly to present that as a testimony to his governance and popularity.
Bengaluru, April 13 : The family tussle between former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has come to the forefront in state politics yet again ahead of the Lok Sabha election.

Both families are vying for supremacy in state politics and see each other as competitors.

Bengaluru Rural Congress candidate D.K. Suresh, who is also the brother of Shivakumar, said on Friday in Ramanagara that Deve Gowda's family has been spreading enmity and hatred against Shivakumar's family for a long time.

"It is not a recent phenomenon. They (Deve Gowda's family) issued statements with an intention of always playing politics. They are doing politics at every stage," Suresh alleged.

"However, we (Suresh, Shivakumar) do not have that kind of hatred. We have given support and cooperation in the interest of the society and development. If they (Deve Gowda's family) are trying to analyse in a different manner, I can't give answers," he added.

"The leadership of the Vokkaliga community does not belong to anyone. Shivakumar does not have any such feelings in this regard. He had only highlighted that former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy had gone to a Vokkaliga seer with those who conspired to bring him down from power. Vokkaligas are people with self-respect. They will take a wise decision," Suresh added.

The fight is ongoing in Karnataka between Shivakumar and Deve Gowda's son Kumaraswamy to take up the former's place to get close to the Chief Ministerial post in the state.

Shivakumar has emerged as a Vokkaliga face from the Congress and is all set to stake claim for the Chief Minister's post after the Lok Sabha election in Karnataka.

Following the Congress projecting Shivakumar as a probable Chief Ministerial candidate, the party had registered a thumping victory in the 2018 Assembly election.

Deve Gowda's family suffered a setback after his defeat in the 2019 general election from the Tumakuru Parliamentary seat. The JD (S) was able to win only 19 seats during the 2023 Assembly election.

Kumaraswamy, who is contesting Lok Sabha polls from the Mandya seat, had said that Shivakumar was associated with rowdy Kotwal Ramachandra before entering politics and time has come for the people to remove him from power as the Deputy Chief Minister.

Shivakumar had said that all three NDA candidates from JD(S) will face defeat, including C.N. Manjunath, Gowda's son-in-law, who is contesting as a BJP candidate from the Bengaluru Rural Lok Sabha constituency against Congress leader D.K. Suresh.
Jaipur, April 13 : The Congress in Rajasthan has suffered a major setback after nearly 400 party workers resigned from its primary membership on Friday, leaving the party in crisis, said party sources.

The Congress has formed an alliance with the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) on the Nagaur Lok Sabha seat and left it vacant for the RLP.

Nagaur MP and RLP Chief Hanuman Beniwal was fielded here by the Congress.

Meanwhile, three Congress workers were suspended on Monday for six years on allegations of campaigning in favour of BJP candidate Jyoti Mirdha from Nagaur on basis of a complaint made by Beniwal.

Soon after the suspension of these Congress leaders which included former MLA Bhararam, Kuchera Municipality Chairperson Tejpal Mirdha and Sukharam Dodwadiya, there was a furore among Congress workers in Nagaur.

Protesting the suspension, the three Congress leaders resigned from the party's membership.

Tejpal Mirdha, meanwhile, called a press conference on Friday and said, "Congress was in a strong position in Nagaur during Assembly polls. It won four out of eight seats. Even in Lok Sabha polls, its position was equally strong. Despite this, why was the alliance formed with the RLP."

"Hanuman Beniwal is a tool who is trying to destroy the Congress in Nagaur. Congress workers have been deeply shocked with the formation of alliance with such a person. That's why we all are giving our collective resignation letter," he added.

"Congress high command formed an alliance with RLP without the consent of the local Congress state unit. This alliance has been imposed on us. RLP had worked to defeat Congress in the entire district. We never shared the stage with BJP. Still, Beniwal expelled us from the party. The Congress, without any information or showcause notice, directly issued a Tughlaqi decree and expelled us," he said.

"Now Congress is no longer the same party which it used to be in the past. Here one person is running the party according to his own wish and will. It is important that this message reaches the Congress high command that the party is destroying itself in Rajasthan. Recently, Beniwal in one of his campaigns has said that Congress has five to seven such party workers who are campaigning for the BJP in the guise of Congressmen. Such people should be thrown out," he said, adding, "I have been telling the same thing to District Congress President Zakir Hussain and Rajasthan Congress in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa."

On Monday night, Congress suspended three party workers for six years which included Tejpal Mirdha, who is a cousin of Jyoti Mirdha.

Meanwhile, Varun Purohit, a Congress worker, said, "This is the propaganda of BJP. This is all fake. People in the crowd are not always members of the Congress."
Washington, April 13 : US President Joe Biden has told reporters at the White House that he expects Iran will attack Israel "sooner than later," media reports said.

"I don't want to get into secure information but my expectation is sooner than later," Biden said to reporters on Friday when asked how imminent an Iranian attack on Israel would be, CNN reported.

Asked what his message to Iran is right now, the President said, "Don't."

In response to more shouted questions from reporters in the room, asking if American troops were at risk -- Biden returned to the podium and said that the US is "devoted" to the defence of Israel.

"We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel, we will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," Biden said.

The US has been on high alert for a significant Iranian retaliatory attack on Israel in recent days as fears grow of a wider regional war, CNN reported.

There remains a "real," "credible" and "viable" threat of Iran launching strikes, the White House said on Friday, following Israel's attack on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria last week that killed three Iranian generals.

Biden, who warned this week that Iran was threatening a "significant attack" on Israel, has been receiving constant updates on the situation from his national security team.

The US and several other countries, including Britain and France, issued new travel guidelines for government employees in Israel as the Iranian threat loomed.

"We're watching this very, very closely," said John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, who declined to provide information about the expected timing of the threat.

The US will attempt to intercept any weapons launched at Israel if it's feasible to do so, two US officials told CNN, an indication of the level of ongoing cooperation between the two militaries.

US Navy forces in the Red Sea have previously intercepted long-range missiles launched from the Houthis in Yemen towards Israel. US forces in Iraq and Syria could also potentially intercept drones and rockets targeting northern Israel, depending on the location from which they're launched, CNN reported.

The Defence Department is also moving additional assets to the Middle East region "to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces," a US Defence official told CNN, as Israel and the US brace for a potential Iranian attack.

The Pentagon has been working specifically to bolster air defences for the US troops stationed in Iraq and Syria who came under attack by Iran-backed proxy forces over 100 times between October and February. In January, three US service members were killed when a drone got through US air defences at the Tower 22 base in Jordan.

The US is not anticipating that Iran or its proxies will attack US forces as part of its retaliation but is moving the assets just in case.

"It would be imprudent if we didn't take a look at our own posture in the region to make sure that we're properly prepared," Kirby added.

CNN reported last week that the US was on high alert and actively preparing for an attack by Iran targeting Israeli or American assets in the region. Officials said such an attack could come within the week.

CNN reported earlier this week that an Iranian attack on Israel would likely be carried out by Iranian proxy forces in the region rather than by Iran directly, according to two people familiar with US intelligence on the matter.

Tehran is wary of a dramatic escalation in the fighting, the sources said, and does not want to give the US or its allies an excuse to attack Iran directly.

The sources said Iran and its proxy militia groups do not appear poised to attack US troops or other assets in the region, but they noted that Iran does not have perfect command and control over all its proxy forces, so the possibility of an attack on US assets cannot be completely ruled out, CNN reported.

The sources told CNN that US intelligence assesses that Iran has urged several of its proxy militia groups to simultaneously launch a large-scale attack against Israel, using drones and missiles, and that they could attack as soon as this week.

"The threat is very clear and credible," said one of the sources.

"They have put the pieces in place to conduct the attack now. Just waiting for the right time."

Biden spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, about the threat of an Iranian attack during a telephone call last week.

A direct strike on Israel by Iran is one of the worst-case scenarios the Biden administration is bracing for, as it would guarantee rapid escalation of an already tumultuous situation in the Middle East. Such a strike could lead to the Israel-Hamas war broadening into a wider, regional conflict -- something Biden has long sought to avoid, CNN reported.

Biden is receiving briefings multiple times a day on the situation, Kirby said.

He added on Friday that US officials were in "constant communication" with their Israeli counterparts about the matter and that steps were underway to ensure Israel is able to defend itself.

"We are certainly mindful of a very public and what we consider to be a very credible threat made by Iran in terms of potential attacks on Israel," Kirby said on Friday.

He pointed to a visit to Israel on Friday by US Central Command Chief General Erik Kurilla to have "those conversations directly with his IDF counterparts".

Kurilla's trip to Israel was moved up because of the expectation of an Iranian response to Israel's targeting of the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, last week, CNN reported.

There have also been a number of conversations in which US officials have urged Israel not to escalate the situation in retaliating against Iran, according to one of the US officials said.

Separately, US officials were frustrated with their Israeli counterparts over the lack of information Israel shared prior to carrying out the strike in Damascus last week, sources told CNN.

Israel only informed a US official when its planes were already in the air en route to Syria, another US official said.

"We were not aware that Israel was going to carry out this airstrike in advance," the official added.

"Minutes before it happened and when Israeli planes were already in the air, Israel reached out to a US official to say they were in the process of conducting a strike in Syria. It did not include any details on who they were targeting or where it would be conducted, and the strike was already underway before word could be passed through the US government."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with the Foreign Ministers of Turkey, China and Saudi Arabia to urge them to press Iran not to escalate the conflict in the Middle East after threats made by Iran against Israel, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Thursday.

Miller added that the US has also "engaged with European allies and partners over the past few days" to deliver a similar message on Iran. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron have both spoken to the Iranian Foreign Minister in recent days.

Blinken "has been making clear to every country that has any semblance of a relationship with Iran that it is in their interest to use that relationship to send a message to Iran that they should not escalate this conflict. But I will let those countries speak for themselves about what action they may or may not take," Miller said.

The US State Department has restricted the travel of US government personnel in Israel in the wake of public threats against Israel by Iran, CNN reported.

"Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice," a security alert posted by the US Embassy on Thursday said, "US government personnel are authorised to transit between these three areas for personal travel."

"The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events," the alert noted.

France has advised its citizens to "absolutely refrain" from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories due to the risk of "military escalation," the French Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

The Ministry added that families of diplomatic staff in the Iranian capital Tehran will be returned to France and civil servants will be banned from work missions to those countries and territories.

The French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne issued the new recommendation following a crisis meeting on the region, the Ministry said in a post on X.
Three men charged with murder after man stabbed to death following argument in Ealing pub

The Old Hat in West Ealing was sealed off by police following the incident (Google Maps)

Three men have been charged with murder after a man was stabbed to death following an argument inside a pub in West Ealing.

The Metropolitan Police were called at around 7.50pm on April 6 to a disturbance at The Old Hat on Uxbridge Road at the junction with Singapore Road.

A dispute spilled out of the pub and a 39-year-old man was stabbed to death, the force previously said.

Three men were arrested on Wednesday and charged overnight on Thursday.

They are Leon Woods, 42, from Ealing, Cleveland McEntee, 39, from Hammersmith, and Tron McEntee, 34, from Perivale.

They will appear in custody at Wimbledon Magistrates Court on Friday.

A 30-year-old woman who was also arrested on suspicion of murder on Wednesday has been bailed until a date in mid-June.

DCI Laura Nelson, leading the Mets investigation, previously said: This senseless murder arose from what appears to have been a minor dispute inside a pub. The dispute spilled outside where the victim was fatally stabbed.

Although formal identification has yet to take place, we believe we know the mans identity and have informed his family. I send my most sincere condolences to them.

It is crucial that anyone who was in the pub on Saturday night who may have seen anything significant makes contact with police and tells us what they saw.

I also need to hear from anyone who recorded mobile phone footage which may have captured the disturbance, the build up to it or the aftermath.

Police cordons will remain in place well into Monday, 8 April, and possibly beyond. These will include parts of Uxbridge Road / The Broadway in West Ealing.

Specialist officers are conducting a full forensic examination of the scene, working alongside local officers and other specialists from across the Met. This work will take some time, and I thank local people for their patience.

Any witnesses or anyone with information can call the police on 0208 7858244.
Cairo, April 13 : Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirmed their rejection of any Israeli ground military operation in the southernmost Gaza Strip city of Rafah.

During a phone conversation, the two top diplomats discussed efforts to achieve a ceasefire and increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said on Friday in a statement.

Shoukry stressed the need to continue to pressure Israel to comply with its responsibilities as the occupying power, stop targeting defenceless civilians, and open the land border crossings between Israel and the strip to increase the flow of aid, Xinhua news agency reported.

He also urged for removing obstacles to the entry of aid, in addition to allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes in northern Gaza.

The Egyptian Minister also reaffirmed his country's rejection of attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians outside their lands, saying these attempts, aimed at liquidating the Palestinian cause, constitute a grave violation of the provisions of international law.

Shoukry and Blinken also touched on the growing tensions in the region, highlighting the importance of efforts to contain the ongoing escalation, given its negative effects on regional stability.

Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 200 were taken hostage.

The over six-month-long war in Gaza has so far killed 33,634 Palestinians and wounded 76,214 others since its outbreak, according to the Ministry of Health in Gaza on Friday.
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) announced last year that it is to convert former War Department 2-10-0 steam locomotive Dame Vera Lynn to run on oil instead of coal.

The railway has now confirmed that US-based railroad engineering and mechanical contractor FMW Solutions (FMW) will work with the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to carry out the conversion.

No. 3672 Dame Vera Lynn on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. // Credit: North Yorkshire Moors Railway

This change in fuel will be the first conversion of full-size steam locomotive oil conversion in the UK since the end of steam, which the North Yorkshire Moors Railway sees as securing its future as the busiest heritage railway in the country.

This will help ensure our steam locomotives remain in service for future generations. Paul Middleton, Director of Mechanical Engineering at the NYMR

Built at the North British Locomotive Works in Glasgow in 1944 and numbered WD 3672, Dame Vera Lynn was one of 150 of these extremely powerful freight locomotives ordered for the war effort.

It was soon renumbered as WD 73672 and with 15 others of the same type of locomotives; it was shipped to Egypt, where it was put into storage.

These were declared surplus to requirements in October 1945 and sold to the Hellenic State Railways of Greece; in January 1946 they were shipped to Salonika in Greece.

By the 1970s, they were displaced by diesels, and Dame Vera Lynn was purchased for use on the Lavender Line in East Sussex, where it arrived in 1984.

No. 3672 Dame Vera Lynn on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. // Credit: John Holdsworth

It soon proved too large for that line, and in 1986 was bought by Clifford Brown who, he began to suffer ill health, decided that the locomotive should be placed in trust with the North Yorkshire Moors Railway where it arrived in December 1986.

Further information about the conversion can be found by clicking here.

Kelly Lynch, Davidson Ward, and Wolf Fengler from FMW Solutions together with Paul Middleton and Nick Simpson from the North Yorkshire Moors Railway have also recorded a video podcast Restoration Roundtable that debates whether oil-fired steam is the way to go in future-proofing preservation. Watch the video podcast here.

Can oil-fired steam future-proof preservation?

This is a great opportunity to develop oil burning systems on our locomotives. This will help ensure our steam locomotives remain in service for future generations. Oil has many benefits, including lowering the risks of lineside fires, reducing staff hours maintaining locomotives and reducing business risk due to the unavailability of coal. Paul Middleton, Director of Mechanical Engineering at the NYMR
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Coal India (CIL) produced 89 million tonnes (MT) in March-24, up 6 per cent year on year (Y-o-Y) and offtake was 69 MT, up 7 per cent Y-o-Y. FY24 production was 774 MT, up 10 per cent Y-o-Y.

Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters

Offtake was 754 MT, up 9 per cent Y-o-Y.

CIL targets production of 838 MT in FY25, up 8 per cent Y-o-Y over FY24.

Offtake could rise to 825 MT in FY25 and 870 MT in FY26.

The subsidiaries South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) and Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) can increase their offtake by 41 MT and 25 MT in FY25, respectively.

In FY24, CIL dispatched 618.5 MT (up 5.4 per cent Y-o-Y) to the power sector (vs committed volume of 610 MT).

The power sector thus accounted for 82 per cent of total dispatches.

Dispatches to the non-power sector rose from 108 MT in FY23 to 135 MT in FY24.

Inventory has increased in FY24 to 90 MT (69 MT end-FY23).

In Q4FY24, e-auction premiums narrowed to 3040 per cent, down from 115 per cent in Q3FY24.

While blended Q3FY24 operating profit/ton was as high as Rs 594, the unit numbers are likely to drop.

But if the e-auction premium could remain at 50 per cent levels, FY26 operating profit can hit Rs 38,000 crore compared to Rs 36,800 crore in FY23.

The blended assumption is fuel supply agreement coal accounting for 80 per cent of volume, at an operating profit of Rs 300/tonne and e-auction coal at an operating profit of Rs 1,000/tonne.

Despite the energy transition focus, coal usage should accelerate until 2030.

Due to its monopoly status, CIL is likely to maintain good margins and generate free cash.

The production target is 1 billion tonnes (BT) by FY26 and even if that target is hit a year later, it implies 9.2 per cent annual growth over FY23-27E.

One key risk to this thesis would be the faster adoption of renewable energy.

CIL employs about 240,000 people, and employee cost is the largest component of the cost base contributing about 52 per cent of expenses.

The group is reducing its workforce by 10,000 per annum.

This implies the CIL group would employ about 170,000 people by FY30.

Volume growth with a decline in unit costs could translate into an operating profit growth of 13.2 per cent during FY23-27.

As capex is completed, free cash flows would rise enabling diversification into renewables as the group plans.

The generous dividend may also be maintained. The FY24 estimates indicate that net revenues could hit Rs 1.42 trillion, up 3 per cent Y-o-Y over FY23.

Operating profit could rise by 8 per cent to Rs 39,756 crore with the margin rising by around 130 basis points to around 27.8 per cent.

The net profit could rise to Rs 30,708 crore, up by 9 per cent.

FY25 should see a sharp improvement in cash flow.

The stock is still moderately valued and it should be a decent investment over the long term.

Disclaimer: This article is meant for information purposes only. This article and information do not constitute a distribution, an endorsement, an investment advice, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities/schemes or any other financial products/investment products mentioned in this article to influence the opinion or behaviour of the investors/recipients.

Any use of the information/any investment and investment related decisions of the investors/recipients are at their sole discretion and risk. Any advice herein is made on a general basis and does not take into account the specific investment objectives of the specific person or group of persons. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.
Government departments have been tasked with identifying major goals, which will include annual targets from the financial year 2024-2025 to 2028-2029.

IMAGE: Bharatiya Janata Party leader Narendra Modi at an election meeting for the Lok Sabha elections in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, April 10, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Top-level meetings of key government departments are in full swing to prepare a five-year road map in line with the Viksit Bharat vision for a developed India by 2047, a person aware of the matter told Business Standard.

A review meeting, where secretaries of all important ministries and departments are expected to be present, has been scheduled for May 1.

The first draft of the five-year plan could possibly come up for discussion at the meeting.

Agriculture, education, skilled employment, infrastructure, trade, tourism, green economy and startups are among the areas on the agenda, the source said.

The first meeting of secretaries, led by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, began sometime in March on this.

The full-year Union Budget for FY25, expected to be presented by the next government in June-July, is likely to see a paradigm shift and initiate the initial steps for achieving the Viksit Bharat vision, the person quoted above said.

Apart from the Union Budget, if the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is running the government, wins the Lok Sabha elections for the third consecutive time, the first 100 days plan will be based on the five-year plan, the person said.

Government departments have been tasked with identifying major goals, which will include annual targets from the financial year 2024-2025 to 2028-2029.

Ministries and government departments have also been consulting industry as well, the person added.

Various departments are devising action plans to ensure meeting the targets that will be set.

The targets are in sync with the government's think-tank NITI Aayog's Viksit Bharat@2047 vision document, a long-term strategy aiming to make India a developed economy of $30 trillion in 23 years from now.

The vision hinges on the expectation that India will be able to deal with most of its post-independence problems over the next two years.

As a result, there is a need to transcend a different set of challenges.

To achieve this, the government has 27 themes, including macroeconomic strategy, quality and affordable health and wellness for all, education and skilling for the future, women-led development, industries of the future, trade integrating with the world, balanced regional development, a startup ecosystem for the world, critical resources such as energy, minerals and water, agriculture and rural economy, etc.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
'We want to send a notice to the BJP that Rajputs are no longer their slaves.'

IMAGE: Parshottam Rupala, second from left, during the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation's golden jubilee celebrations in Ahmedabad. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Bharatiya Janata Party is facing strong headwinds from the Rajput community in Gujarat where the BJP won all 26 Lok Sabha seats in 2019.

Angered by BJP Rajya Sabha MP and and Union Minister Parshottam Rupala's alleged offensive remarks about Rajput kings in earlier times, the Rajput community has launched an aggressive campaign seeking Rupala's ouster from the BJP and at the least a withdrawal of his candidature from the Rajkot Lok Sabha seat.

After Rupala's remarks at an election meeting, the Rajput community has been on an offensive against the BJP not only in Gujarat, but also in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

"If they don't cede our demand we will ensure that BJP candidates across these states face the brunt of Rajput ire," Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president, Shri Karni Sena, which is one among many Rajput organisations mobilising support against Rupala, tells Prasanna D Zore/Rediff.com.

When and why were you detained by the Gujarat police? When were you released?

We had gone to meet the women who had threatened jauhar (an act of self-immolation engaged by Rajput women in medieval India whereby they would consign themselves to fire to protect their honour from marauding Mughals).

We wanted to tell our sisters, make them understand that so long as their brothers were alive they should not be going for such acts. But the Gujarat police stopped and detained us for eight hours.

Later we were taken to the Rajasthan border (on April 8) and let go. During our detention and on our way back to Rajasthan the Gujarat police continued to torture us mentally.

I was in Gujarat the other day (April 9) to attend yet another programme. There too the police arrived in 40-50 vans. They restricted my movements and had us surrounded. We were allowed to continue with our travel only after 11 pm that day.

What measures are being adopted by the Gujarat police to stop the Rajput agitation?

I am being surrounded by the Gujarat police wherever I travel in the state. I am still in Gujarat (as on April 9) and we are still playing cat-and-mouse game with the state police. We are making all possible efforts to evade arrest, detention and continue with our agitation.

Their plan is to provoke us, make us fight them, provoke us to indulge in violence so that they can take strong action against us and successfully quell our agitation. We will not let the Gujarat government succeed in their plan. We don't want our agitation to stop.

We will continue to oppose the BJP till the time they don't ask Parshottam Rupala to leave the party.

Rajput community leaders have vowed to defeat Parshotttam Rupala from Rajkot. How do you plan to do it?

A person who humiliates the bravery and honour of our brave ancestors must be defeated.

If one of our leaders (a Rajput) contests against him from Rajkot, then the entire Kshatriya community would back such a candidate. Or, if the Congress fields a strong candidate who can defeat him, then we won't hesitate to support Congress.

Our main aim now is to defeat Rupala at any cost.

It would be a shame on the part of our community if we fail to defeat him. We are very confident that he will be defeated.

IMAGE: Parshottam Rupala speaks in the Rajya Sabha during the Budget session of Parliament, February 10, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Is the ire of the Rajput community only directed against an individual or is the Rajput community planning to work against the BJP?

At this moment we want Rupala to be defeated at any cost. So, we have launched agitations all across Gujarat. Our community leaders are organising Rajputs, wherever they are in significant numbers, and creating awareness among them as to how Rupala has made derogatory statements against our brave ancestors and women; we are demanding that the BJP cancel his nomination from Rajkot.

But if the BJP doesn't concede our demand, then our agitation will become more intense and widespread and we will ensure that a party that doesn't respect Rajputs for being loyal to them for more than 25 years now will have to pay the price for it.

Videos of Rajput leaders administering oaths are viral on social media. What is this oath about?

For the last 25 years we have been unconditional, loyal, supporters of the BJP in Gujarat. The Rajput community has served the party without asking for any benefits or demanded anything from the BJP. We never agitated for any reservations.

But today if the Rajput community is asking the BJP to cancel the nomination of one person who has humiliated our fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters who fought valiantly against the Mughals, then we believe that our demand should be accepted.

For the last 25 years not a single Rajput leader has been given a Lok Sabha ticket by the BJP. Yet we remained BJP's core voters. Even today we are not demanding a ticket. We are just asking the party to remove this man (Parshottam Rupala) and name some other candidate from Rajkot.

What could be the reason for the BJP to neglect the Rajput community, as you said, for the last 25 years?

Rajput samarpan ki mudra main hai; BJP ka ghulam ho gaya tha (Rajputs have adopted a stance of surrendering their interests to the BJP; Rajputs have become slaves of the BJP). Since the BJP knows this they have taken us for granted for more than two decades. They know that the community would vote en bloc for the BJP and we have been doing so since the last 25 years.

The BJP thinks that the Rajputs will continue to surrender to their vote bank politics. They think that we can never raise a banner of revolt against them. They think that Rajputs shall continue to sacrifice their interests for the BJP's victory.

But Rajputs today have realised that those who surrender lose respect. They are not valued.

Time has come for the Rajputs to abandon the BJP.

Rajputs first started their agitation in Rajkot to demand cancellation of Parshottam Rupala's Lok Sabha ticket. Today it is spreading not only across Gujarat but also across Rajasthan, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Why take your agitation outside Gujarat when your anger is against only Parshottam Rupala?

We want to send a notice to the BJP that Rajputs are no longer their slaves.

We have unshackled ourselves and if they don't cede our demand we will ensure that BJP candidates across these states face the brunt of Rajput ire.

Rajnath Singh (a Thakur/Rajput leader and India's defence minister) had come to assuage us yesterday (April 8).

We have launched a huge movement in UP. Since April 9, we have started distributing pamphlets in Madhya Pradesh, UP, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana pleading with our sisters and brothers to start working against BJP candidates (contesting the Lok Sabha election).

We will be posting bill boards and placards at village thoroughfares appealing to the Rajputs to defeat the BJP. We will take out big processions across villages in these states and raise slogans like 'kamal ka phool, hamari bhool' (It was a mistake to support the BJP).

Hasn't Parshottam Rupala already apologised to the Rajputs twice and sought their forgiveness? Shouldn't you forgive him?

Rajputs can never accept an insult to their honour.

We can't forgive a man who has heaped humiliation on our mothers and sisters.

'We can't forgive a man who has hurt the honour of our womenfolk.

If he had said something against our forefathers we would have still forgiven him, but his act is unpardonable.

There is no forgiveness for Parshottam Rupala. The BJP will have to cancel his ticket or face Rajput ire.

Rajputs like Prithviraj Chauhan (in 1191) took on the might of Mohammed Ghouri. We take great pride in protecting the honour of our womenfolk and we fail to understand why the BJP expects us to forgive a man who has insulted our dead mothers and sisters.

How can we vote for someone who has doubts the character of Rajput women?

How can we support a party that cannot, will not, punish the person who has done so?

Your critics within the BJP claim that the Rajputs are pressurising the BJP for not giving them electoral benefits. What do you have to say about such charges?

For the last 25 years we have continued to show our support to the BJP. We will continue to do so even today. But they will have to show the door to this man. That a person who insulted our women is still in the BJP is not acceptable to us.

The other day I was addressing an agitation of 50,000 Rajput brothers and sisters. I administered an oath to them that they should not vote for the BJP if they don't cancel his nomination.

I swore upon our kuldevi (most revered goddess) and told the crowd that the Rajputs never voted for the Congress. Lekin aaj BJP ne hamara dharmantar karwa diya hai (But the BJP, by not removing Rupala from Rajkot, has converted our loyalty towards the Congress).

Through the media I want to tell all our community members -- wherever they are -- that if the BJP doesn't accept our demand, then the Rajputs should swear to defeat them.

I have pleaded with them to vote for anybody who is in a position to defeat the BJP.

Rajput women have threatened jauhar if the BJP doesn't ask Rupala to step down and nominate someone else. Isn't this a dangerous threat? Do you support jauhar?

We don't support jauhar. There is no place for it today. And that is the reason I had gone to meet our sisters to tell them that they should not be issuing such threats when their brothers are still alive.

IMAGE: Parshottam Rupala, the BJP candidate for the Rajkot Lok Sabha constituency, being welcomed at Gopin village in Surat. Photograph: ANI Photo

The BJP won all 26 Lok Sabha seats in the 2019 election. In how many seats could the Rajputs dent the BJP's victory chances in Gujarat if the BJP refuses to budge and remove Parshottam Rupala?

Not just in Gujarat but all over India wherever Rajputs have a significant chunk of votes the BJP will regret hurting Rajput sentiments.

The BJP will face upsets from Ghaziabad, where they have cut General V K Singh's ticket. They will also suffer for cutting the ticket of Brijbhushan Sharan Singh from Ayodhya.

Will the Rajputs, who pride themselves in protecting the honour of their women, any woman, support Brijbhushan Sharan Singh against whom several women wrestlers have levelled charges of sexual assault?

These are only charges. Nothing has been proved against him yet.

Don't you think even an allegation of sexual assault against women is enough to not support such a politician?

Let it be anybody, no less a politician... nobody has the right to molest a woman and get away with it. But these are yet charges and nothing has been proved against him (Brijbhushan Sharan Singh).

The BJP, or any other party, should act against him or any other MP if charges are proved. Such acts, if proved, are not pardonable.

As of now, let us talk only about our agitation.

If they take Rajputs for granted, then forget about 400, the BJP will not be able to cross even 300.
Canada has reduced dozens of its Indian staffers posted in its missions in India, months after New Delhi forced Ottawa to downsize its diplomatic presence.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi greets Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Bharat Mandapam, September 9, 2023. Photograph: Evan Vucci/Pool via Reuters

A Canadian high commission spokesperson on Friday said the slashing of the size of the Indian staff was necessary given the reduction of Canadian staff in the country.

"I can confirm that the Government of Canada has implemented some staff reductions across our network of missions in India," the official said.

"The decision to implement reductions across our network of missions in India was sadly necessary given the reduction of Canadian staff available to effectively manage and maintain in-country operations."

The spokesperson said the high commission expresses its sincere gratitude for the resilience, dedication and service of its local staff in India.

"Canada will continue to deliver core services to Canadians in India, including consular support and for trade and business development so that the citizens of our two countries can continue to benefit from the longstanding ties between Canadians and Indians," the official said.

"We can also confirm that Canada's visa application centres in India are operating as normal," the spokesperson added.

The ties between India and Canada came under severe strain following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations in September of a "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18 in British Columbia.

New Delhi rejected Trudeau's charges as "absurd".

Days after Trudeau's allegations, India asked Ottawa to downsize its diplomatic presence in the country to ensure parity.

Subsequently, Canada withdrew 41 diplomats and and their family members from India.
Delhi Cabinet minister Atishi on Friday alleged that a big political conspiracy is being hatched by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government to impose President's rule in the national capital.

IMAGE: Delhi Cabinet minister Atishi addresses a press conference in New Delhi. Photograph: @AamAadmiParty/Xm

"(Delhi Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal's arrest is a political conspiracy to topple his government. We have learnt from reliable sources that in the coming days, President's rule will be imposed in Delhi. But imposing President's rule in Delhi will be illegal and against the mandate of people," she said at a press conference in New Delhi.

Reacting to the Aam Aadmi Party leader's charge, the BJP said it was surprising that the fear of President's rule is haunting the AAP, which has 62 MLAs in the 70-member Delhi Assembly.

At the press conference, Atishi claimed that in recent times, many events have taken place that indicate the possibility of the imposition of President's rule in the national capital.

"The postings of IAS officers are controlled by the Ministry of Home Affairs. But for the last several months, no senior IAS officer has been posted in Delhi. Many posts are lying vacant in various departments of Delhi but officers are not being posted," she charged.

The lieutenant governor has been repeatedly writing letters to the ministry of home affairs regarding the Delhi government for the last one week for no reason, she said.

"It is said (in the letters to the MHA) that the ministers don't attend meetings called by him," she said.

Atishi further said, "On the pretext of Model Code of Conduct, Delhi government officials have stopped attending meetings, no matter how important the issue is."

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on "false" charges because the BJP knows that no matter how hard it tries, it cannot defeat him in Delhi, the AAP leader claimed.

"Be it the 2013 elections, 2015 elections, 2020 elections or 2022 MCD elections, they have seen that the people of Delhi love Arvind Kejriwal, the people of Delhi love the AAP. And the people of Delhi, despite every possible effort of the BJP, vote only for the AAP, they vote only for Arvind Kejriwal," she said.

Atishi said that imposing President's rule in Delhi would be "unconstitutional".

"The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to Arvind Kejriwal ji and to the AAP. On February 17, Arvind Kejriwal's government had proved its majority by conducting a floor test in the Delhi Assembly. It is very clear in the Constitution of India that President's rule cannot be imposed when a government has the confidence of its House," she said.

In 2016, when President's rule was imposed in Uttarakhand, the Uttarakhand High Court had ordered a floor test. After the government won the trust vote, President's rule was revoked in the state.

Later in the day, Atishi's cabinet colleague Saurabh Bharadwaj spoke in the same vein.

"The BJP and the lieutenant governor are talking about a constitutional crisis in Delhi. This shows that there is a conspiracy to impose President's rule in Delhi. The BJP has been defeated twice in Delhi in 2015 and 2020 and it knows it cannot form the government in Delhi. Even if elections are held today, Arvind Kejriwal will win," he said.

"President's rule was imposed in Delhi throughout 2014. We had approached the Supreme Court at that time. Subsequently, elections were held and the AAP came to power in 2015.

"People gave them a reply for imposing President's rule. If President's rule is imposed in Delhi, the people of Delhi will again give them a reply," he said.

AAP's chief national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said the people of Delhi prefer Kejriwal's positive politics of education, healthcare and free electricity.

"The BJP has to understand the voice of the people of Delhi and stop such conspiracies," she said.

Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva dismissed Atishi's allegations and said it is "surprising how the fear of President's rule is haunting the party which has 62 MLAs".

"Today, Atishi has left her old fabricated story of 'Operation Lotus' against the AAP and woven a new story of President rule imposition in Delhi. Today, she has said that President rule is likely to be imposed in Delhi," he said.

Sachdeva said it is true that after 2013, Kejriwal has formed the government twice in Delhi. But during this time, the people of Delhi gave the BJP a big lead in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the 2017 municipal elections.

"It would not be an exaggeration to say that the same people of Delhi who elected Arvind Kejriwal's government twice with a huge majority also gave full support to Narendra Modi for the central government," he said.

Sachdeva also demanded the resignation of Kejriwal, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case.

"It would be better if Arvind Kejriwal resigns. Hand over the government to a new chief minister and let Delhi's administration run properly," he said.

Kejriwal has been arrested by the ED in the money laundering case linked to the now-scrapped 2021-22 Delhi excise policy. He is in judicial custody till April 15 and is currently lodged in Tihar jail.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the Bharatiya Janata Party used its majority in Lok Sabha for two consecutive terms to strengthen the country while the Congress used its decades-long majority to strengthen its "family", asserting that even the opposition believes that his government will retain power for a third term.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a roadshow ahead of Lok Sabha polls in Chennai. Photograph: Narendra Modi on Facebook

In an interview to Hindi daily Hindustan, Modi underlined his commitment to taking strict action against the corrupt amid criticism by opposition parties that probe agencies were used by his government to target their leaders.

Steps against corruption are being taken even in states where the BJP is in power, he said, adding that the narrative that only political corruption is being targeted is being circulated by people who are under the sword of investigative agencies.

He said, "Of the corruption cases probed by the Enforcement Directorate, only three per cent have people associated with politics. The remaining 97 per cent cases are linked to officials and criminals. Those who see benefits in a corrupt system are the ones who are crying foul and presenting the wrong picture."

Since his government came to power in 2014, eliminating corruption has been its priority, he said, citing steps like ending interviews for Group C and Group D jobs, launch of National Single Window System, efforts for making government services as faceless as possible and starting the DBT (direct benefit transfer) system to prevent the money of the poor from going into the pockets of middlemen.

"As a result, we have removed the names of more than 10 crore (100 million) fake beneficiaries who were not even born. By doing this, the government saved 22.75 lakh crore from going into the wrong hands. I am committed to taking strict action against the corrupt," he said.

Before 2014, the ED attached assets worth only 25,000 crore, whereas in the last 10 years the corresponding seizure surged to over one lakh crore, he said.

"I assure your readers that action against such people, who steal the money meant for the welfare of the people of this country, will not end," the prime minister told the newspaper.

To a question that it is being said that there is not much enthusiasm among voters and no wave for the Lok Sabha polls starting from April 19, Modi said it is not the elections but the opposition camp that is dull because of their certain defeat.

"Even the opposition believes that the NDA government will return to power, which is why several opposition leaders are shying away from poll campaign. Many people have started blaming EVMs (electronic voting machines) even before the polls have begun," he said.

He added that people have got the opportunity to compare the "BJP Model" and the "Congress Model" for the first time.

"The Congress ruled the country with full majority for five-six decades. In comparison, the BJP has served with absolute majority for only one decade. When they had full majority governments, all they did was strengthen their family. Today, when we have a majority government, our priority is to strengthen the country; villages, the poor, our farmers, and the middle-class society," he said.

If one wishes to see the wave, one will have to go to the ground and be among the masses to see their enthusiasm for the third term of the BJP government at the Centre.

"Our workers are already in the field. Now, even citizens have taken to the streets with Phir Ek Baar, Modi Sarkar slogans. When was the last time you saw something like this in the entire world, that even after 10 years of a government, the masses are engaged to reelect it to power with the same enthusiasm and absolute fervour," he said.

People are taking note of the fact that India is the fifth-largest and the fastest-growing economy in the world and host the third-largest startup ecosystem of the world, he said.

Citing a host of development initiatives, Modi also referred to the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya after a wait of 500 years and the removal of Article 370 as among the issues which have enthused the voters.

"Our report card of 10 years is proof that the BJP fulfils its guarantees. Now, we are going to the masses with our vision of a developed India by 2047," he said.
With INDIA bloc parties stepping up their attack on the government over alleged misuse of probe agencies after the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the Opposition is trying to mislead people and "if someone thinks they can get away with such remarks, this is not possible".

IMAGE: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Photograph: ANI Photo

In an interview, Rajnath said the opposition parties were trying to cover up their own "mistakes and weaknesses".

He also rejected Congress allegations of BJP's "washing machine" making leaders who join it from other parties "clean" of the cases faced by them earlier.

Answering a query related to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Rajnath asked why he has not got relief from the courts.

"Even if it is assumed that he went to jail because of us, why is he not getting relief? Have we taken control of the courts also? What are these people trying to say? Let them have the audacity to say we have captured courts also...is it possible?" he asked.

Asked about the allegations of opposition parties including the Aam Aadmi Party and Trinamool Congress, Rajnath said the probe agencies including the Enforcement Directorate and CBI and also Income Tax were doing their job.

"India has to be made corruption-free, this is the resolve of our Prime Minister. If they (opposition parties) feel that they have been framed, their leaders are in jail on baseless allegations, they can get protection from courts. If Sanjay Singh (AAP leader) can get bail, why other (party leaders) have not been able to get similar relief," he asked.

"It seems they don't have faith in courts. If there is a verdict against in courts, we will accept it," he said.

Apart from Kejriwal, some other AAP leaders including former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia are in jail in the Delhi excise policy case. Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha is also in jail in the same case.

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in January in a money laundering case.

"There is no washing machine, agencies have to do their work and they will do so. Are we telling agencies to arrest a specific person, these are baseless allegations. They are trying to cover up their mistakes, weaknesses, are trying to mislead the people and if they think that by misleading they can get away from allegations of corruption, they are mistaken," he said.

Answering a query on several Congress leaders joining the BJP, he said they feel Congress is not fulfilling the objectives for which it was created and is a "family party".

"Family is running the party, that is why Congress is getting into this bad situation," he said.

Rajnath said there should be healthy democracy in the country and there should be people to fulfil the responsibility.
India on Friday asked its citizens not to travel to Iran and Israel amid increasing fears that Tehran may launch an attack on Israeli soil in retaliation to a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria 11 days ago.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Iranian Army/WANA/Reuters

People familiar with the latest developments said no more Indians will be allowed to go to Israel to work in the construction sector.

The first batch of 64 Indian workers had left for Israel earlier this month and over 6,000 construction workers from India were to leave for Israel in April and May.

There have been mounting tensions in West Asia following the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus. Iran blamed Israel for the strike and there have been media reports from Tel Aviv that the Israeli forces are preparing for any eventualities.

In an advisory, the ministry of external affairs also urged the Indians residing in Iran and Israel to exercise utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to minimum.

"In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice," it said.

"All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," the MEA said.

"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.

At present, around 4,000 Indians are residing in Iran while the number in Israel is nearly 18,500, according to official estimates.

It is learnt that New Delhi is looking at various contingencies including possible evacuation of the Indians from the two countries if the overall situation deteriorates.

Israel has been on high alert following threats from Iran as well as intelligence reports suggesting that Tehran was preparing to attack targets in Israel to avenge the April 1 attack on its consulate in Damascus.

Following the Israel-Hamas conflict, there were media reports that said the Israeli construction industry is looking at recruiting 100,000 Indian workers to replace the 90,000 Palestinians As per the plan, over 6,000 construction workers from India were to be brought to Israel in April and May.

They will be brought to Israel on "air shuttle" following a joint decision by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, finance ministry and the construction and housing ministry on subsidising charter flights, a statement issued by the Israeli government late Wednesday said.

Last week, India expressed concern over the deadly attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Syrian capital Damascus and said it is distressed at the escalating tensions in West Asia and their potential to fuel further instability.

Iranian media reported that seven Revolutionary Guards personnel, including two generals, were killed in the attack.

Israel has been continuing its military offensive in Gaza as part of its retaliation to the unprecedented attack on Israeli cities by Hamas on October 7.

Hamas killed around 1,200 people in Israel and kidnapped more than 220 others some of whom were released during a brief ceasefire.

Over 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza in the Israeli offensive, according to the Hamas-run authorities in Gaza.

India has been calling for de-escalation of the situation and creating conditions for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations towards a two-state solution to the Palestine issue.
With six children of Karnataka ministers in the Lok Sabha poll arena, the campaign scene is getting spiced up in the high-stakes elections for the ruling Congress in the state.

IMAGE: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar addresses a gathering during a roadshow as part of an election campaign in support of Congress candidate from Bengaluru South constituency Sowmya Reddy, daughter of state minister Ramalinga Reddy, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, in Bengaluru on April 1, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Prabha Mallikarjun, wife of Minister S S Mallikarjun, is also in the poll fray.

The grand old party tried its best to make several ministers enter the Lok Sabha election fray but none of them agreed and, instead, they proposed the candidature of their family members.

'Now, deliver' is the stern message of the Congress leadership to the ministers, putting the onus on them to ensure the victory of their kin, according to party sources.

The Congress secured only one seat in Karnataka in the 2019 general elections, and has now set an ambitious target of winning in 15 to 20 constituencies in the coming polls.

Elections in 28 constituencies in the State will be held in two phases on April 26 and May 7.

Sons of Laxmi Hebbalkar, Eshwar Khandre and H C Mahadevappa -- Mrinal Ravindra Hebbalkar, Sagar Khandre and Sunil Bose -- have been fielded from Belagavi (Belgaum), Bidar and Chamarajanagar, respectively.

Daughters of Satish Jarkiholi, Shivanand Patil and Ramalinga Reddy -- Priyanka Jarkiholi, Samyukta Patil and Sowmya Reddy -- are in contention in Chikkodi, Bagalkot and Bangalore South respectively.

Prabha Mallikarjun, wife of Minister S S Mallikarjun and daughter-in-law of veteran party leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa, is the party's nominee from Davangere.

"In this 'do or die' situation, the ministers have found the Lok Sabha election a launch pad for their children and relatives. We have to see how these ministers succeed in their mission," a Congress insider said.

Barring Sowmya Reddy, who is a former MLA, none of them have any legislative experience in elections.

Stakes are high for some other ministers as well.

The party has fielded Radhakrishna Doddamani, son-in-law of Congress president M Mallikarjun Kharge in the family's home turf of Kalaburagi (Gulbarga), a seat held by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Kharge's son and Minister Priyank Kharge has taken charge of spearheading the campaign in this segment, where his father had lost in the 2019 general elections.

"Priyank has taken this election as a prestige issue given the fact that the Congress president hails from here and had represented this constituency in the past in the Lok Sabha," a Congress leader said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had last month launched the BJP's formal campaign in Kalaburagi in what was seen as an aggressive message to the Congress.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress chief D K Shivakumar's brother D K Suresh is seeking reelection in Bangalore Rural, where the BJP and Janata Dal-Secular have fielded noted cardiologist and son-in-law of former prime minister H D Deve Gowda.

The Congress which came to power in the state in May last year is seeking to ride on its five guarantee schemes of the government.

Sowmya Reddy, who is contesting from Bangalore South asked the women voters during a recent roadshow -- "Do you travel in the buses? Which places have you visited in the recent past? Do you pay or travel for free?"

She was referring to 'Shakti' guarantee that offers free rides to Karnataka women in non-luxury government buses within the state.

Reddy explained to the people about the four other guarantees -- 'Gruha Lakshmi', 'Gruha Jyoti', 'Yuva Nidhi' and 'Anna Bhagya'.

"Who brought 'Achchhe Din'? Is it Congress or the BJP? Which 'Achchhe Din' you will vote for?" Reddy asked the women voters.

In Belagavi, Mrinal Ravindra Hebbalkar, is taking on BJP candidate and former chief minister Jagadish Shettar.

In campaign meetings, Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar reminded the crowd how Shettar had joined Congress when the BJP denied him a ticket in the 2023 assembly election, only to return to the saffron party a few months later.

"Shettar is from Hubballi and we are from Belagavi. We know the problems prevailing here better than any 'outsider'. Today, BJP people are saying that they vote for Shettar keeping Prime Minister Narendra Modi in mind, but I want to know why he joined Congress and abused the BJP, Modi and former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa," the minister asked.

The BJP swept the 2019 general elections in Karnataka winning 25 out of the 28 seats, while an independent backed by the party also won.

The Congress and JD-S which fought the elections together, secured one seat each.
In a display of solidarity and compassion, people in Kerala have rallied together to raise an astounding Rs 34 crore to save a man sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia.

IMAGE: The view of a jail in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Photograph: Reuters

Abdul Rahim, who hails from Kozhikode, has spent 18 years behind bars in the Gulf nation for allegedly killing a Saudi boy in 2006.

Until five days ago, the action committee, formed to work for the release of Rahim, could raise only a meagre amount but as the campaign intensified, help poured in from Kerala people from across the world, the organisers said on Friday.

Local people said Rahim was jailed in 2006 after he accidently caused the death of a specially-abled boy whom he was taking care of.

He was sentenced to death in 2018 after the family of the Saudi boy refused to grant amnesty.

The action committee members told the media that the appeals were rejected by the top courts but later the family agreed to pardon Rahim if he pays the 'blood money.'

"More than 75 organisations in Riyadh, Kerala-based businessman Bobby Chemmannur, various political organisations in the state, the common people all helped us to raise the money," an organiser told the media here.

His mother said she never thought that such an amount could be raised.

"I had no hope as we have no means to raise Rs 34 crore. But somehow it was all made possible," she said.

Chemmanur organised multiple events in the past few days to raise money.

He also organised the sale of one of his products and donated the whole amount to the cause.

The action committee had created a mobile application to ensure transparency in the matter.
Two Democratic candidates have announced their plans to run for the 92nd Assembly District seat. Joe Plouff and Caden Berg will face off in the primary for the Democratic nomination in addition to any other Democratic candidates who may yet step forward.

The 92nd Assembly District now includes parts of Dunn and Chippewa counties, stretching from Menomonie to Chippewa Falls alongside Highway 29.

The Wisconsin State Legislature passed new state Assembly and Senate district maps submitted by Gov. Tony Evers in February, as part of the Wisconsin Supreme Courts ruling on the constitutionality of the maps adopted in 2022.

This is expected to lead to near-equal chances that the Republican or Democratic parties will gain control of legislative majorities.

The 92nd changes from a Buffalo and Trempealeau counties-based district to one connecting Chippewa Falls, Lake Hallie, Elk Mound and Menomonie.

Switching geographical places with the 92nd is the 29th, which now includes Mondovi, Independence and towns along the Mississippi River.

First elected in 2017 in the 92nd district, Republican Treig Pronschinske lives in the newly configured 29th. Republican Clint Moses, who was elected in 2020 as the 29th district representative, now resides in the 92nd.

Members of the Wisconsin State Assembly serve two-year terms and are not subject to term limits. As of the 2020 census, Wisconsin state representatives represented an average of 59,570 residents.

Democratic primary candidates

Berg

Berg grew up in Chippewa Falls and resides in Lake Hallie. He was elected to the Chippewa County Board in 2022, defeating incumbent Charlene Kervina. In the April election, Berg lost the seat to new candidate Joe Roshell.

Berg graduated in 2022 from UW-Eau Claire with a degree in political science. He won his seat on the county board while he was a senior in college.

Bergs campaign website says he will advocate for quality education, affordable health care, mental health services, saving family farms and promoting local economic growth.

Wisconsin is yearning for leaders who will forward ideas that make sense and bring much-needed attention and action to help the working and middle-class families that are the backbone of Wisconsin.

Berg said in his announcement that he witnesses the struggles of Wisconsinites who barely make ends meet every day.

Over the past 13 years, our Legislature has done little to alleviate this crisis. Our public schools are underfunded; child care, health care and secondary education are becoming unaffordable; labor and union power are diminishing; and womens rights are under attack. I understand these issues because Ive seen them firsthand and am committed to making a change.

Berg said he believes in the collective power of voters and that together he and the public can propel the state forward.

These past few years, I've had the privilege of speaking with political leaders, union and labor representatives, teachers and people like you and me, Berg said. It is these conversations that have not only inspired me to run for office but also solidified my commitment to being a voice for our community. I am here to fight for the change we need.

Plouff

Joe Plouff was born in De Pere and now lives in Menomonie. Plouff served in the Wisconsin Assembly from 1997 until 2005, when he was defeated for re-election. He previously served in the Legislature for eight years as a Democrat. He is a coordinator at the Dunn County Health Care Center and has been a member of the Menomonie City Council and the Dunn County Board.

Plouff received his bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and his master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Plouff also served in the United States Army.

When I see the behaviors shown under the dome in Madison begin to reflect those of Washington, D.C., I am appalled and dismayed. Our democracy needs attention, and I am willing to step forward. Plouff said.

He continued: There are many pieces of my experience that are especially valuable to the state legislature right now. I know how the process works and have been successful in getting that work done. I know how to craft legislation and get it signed into law. I know the importance of aiding constituents as they seek help with the state bureaucracy. My established history of working hard continues as there is so much to do.

Plouff said he offers what no other candidate for the 92nd Assembly District can provide  eight years of experience in the state Assembly.

My background knowledge tells me things do not have to continue as they are today. The chaos in our Capitol is a result of special interests seeking even more power through the domination of one-party control, he said. For 28 of the last 30 years, Republicans have controlled the state Assembly. They control it from the Milwaukee suburbs, ignoring the real needs of rural Wisconsin.

Plouff said he aims to bring stability and respect back to the Capitol by returning to public life after 20 years out of the Legislature and 15 years of retirement.
The Trishakti Corps Infantry and Mechanised Infantry Battalion conducted a training exercise for its Anti Tank Guided Missile at a super-high altitude of 17,000 feet in Sikkim on Thursday, April 11, 2024.

The missiles were fired with an aim to achieve the target of 'Ek Missile Ek Tank' (One Missile One Tank).

Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force's Western Air Command and the IAF's Sapta Shakti Command also conducted an aerial replenishment exercise, DOT (Dot On Target) Prahar 2024, in New Delhi.

'It is a dynamic exercise to showcase the synchronised and integrated employment of Air and Ground Forces, re-energising the combat endurance of mechanised units', the Indian Army's South Western Command tweeted.

IMAGE: The Anti Tank Guided Missile is fired! All photographs: ANI Photo

IMAGE: The aerial replenishment exercise, DOT Prahar 2024, here and below.

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said India's budget for infrastructure on the border with China was increased significantly after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister.

IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during a press conference, in Bikaner, Rajasthan, April 11, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

India should have learnt lessons from the 1962 war but no headway was made in the development of border infrastructure till 2014, he claimed, adding that the Modi government increased the budget for the same from Rs 3,500 crore to Rs 14,500 crore.

With China, India must have "realistic, grounded and practical policy," Jaishankar said, interacting with youth at an event titled 'Why Bharat Matters: Opportunity for youth and participation in global scenario' here.

"China is our neighbor, and be it China or any other neighbour, the border settlement is one kind of challenge. I would like to dwell upon history here as if we do not learn lessons from history, we will continue to make mistakes again and again," the minister said.

China occupied Tibet in 1950, and then home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel wrote to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, stating that he was very disturbed with India's policy towards China, Jaishankar said.

Patel cautioned that India should not take assurances by China at face value, but Nehru dismissed his concerns and said the Chinese were Asian people and did not harbour any ill-will towards India, he claimed.

"He (Nehru) said the Chinese in fact want friendship with India, and went on to claim that it is impossible that China will cross the Himalayas to attack India," Jaishankar added.

While Patel was a practical, grounded and realistic man, Nehru was idealistic and leftist, the minister remarked.

"I am talking about history because with China, we have to have realistic, grounded and practical policy every time. I am taking the clock of history a little ahead as after seven to eight years, China found itself building a road through Aksai Chin and when India realised that they are making a road though our territory, India registered a protest. First they did not respond but later claimed that it was their land," Jaishankar said.

From 1957 to 1962, when Chinese were building road, preparing for war, the Indian government was busy thinking that India is non-aligned and China is non-western, and both countries have ideological relations, he said.

"We should have taken lessons from the 1962 war. We should have made headway in border infrastructure but from 1962 to 2014, the thinking of the government was not to make any improvements on the border front with China. A then defence minister even said that the best defence is to leave the border without development," said Jaishankar.

When Modi became PM, the budget for infrastructure on the China border was Rs 3,500 crore and today it is Rs 14,500 crore, he stated.

"Just recall that in the last few years, new tunnels, roads, bridges along the China border are made. Sela tunnel was made where the Chinese had reached in 1962. Till the time, we do not make any headways into the border infrastructure, how can we make the border pose a challenge," he said.

Earlier this week, in an interview to Newsweek, prime minister Modi had said that for India, the relationship with China is important and significant, and "we need to urgently address the prolonged situation on our borders so that the abnormality in our bilateral interactions can be put behind us."
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah will contest elections from the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency, the National Conference announced in Srinagar on Friday.

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff.com IMAGE: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and his son Omar Abdullah address a press conference in Srinagar.

Making the announcement, party president Farooq Abdullah also told reporters that influential Shia leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi will contest from central Kashmir's Srinagar constituency, which has been an NC bastion.

After the abrogation of Article 370, and the downgrading and division of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories, Omar Abdullah, the NC vice president, had announced he would not contest assembly elections unless J-K's statehood was restored.

Spread over 18 assembly segments, the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat would be one of the keenly watched contests as electoral dynamics in the constituency have changed after delimitation.

The constituency, which encompasses four districts of Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and parts of Budgam, is pegged for a key contest with a largely direct fight between the NC and Peoples Conference chief Sajad Gani Lone, the separatist-turned-mainstream politician.

The junior Abdullah would be banking heavily on Shia support as the constituency has many Shia dominated areas that include Budgam, Beerwah, Pattan, Sonawari and Bandipora, among other pockets.

Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency was redrawn in the delimitation exercise, undertaken after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, to include two assembly seats of Budgam district -- Budgam and Beerwah -- both Shia dominated, and one each new assembly segment in Baramulla and Kupwara.

Before delimitation, the constituency has been a forte of the NC as the party has wrested the seat ten times since 1957. The Congress has won four times and the PDP once.

In the last general elections in 2019, NC candidate Mohammad Akbar Lone secured 133,426, defeating his nearest rival Raja Aijaz Ali of the Peoples Conference who polled 1,03,193 votes.

Independent candidate, Sheikh Abdul Rashid polled 1,02,168 votes to grab the third spot, while the PDP candidate Abdul Qayoom Wani with 53,530 votes stood at number four.

Rashid, who contested the last elections but is under NIA custody on terror-funding charges, has an influence in Langate assembly segment of the constituency which he represented in the erstwhile J-K legislature twice.

His party, Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), has announced it will field Rashid, who is currently in detention in New Delhi's Tihar Jail, from the seat for the Lok Sabha polls.

The PDP, which stood at a distant fourth place in the last elections, has fielded former Rajya Sabha MP Fayaz Mir.

This will be the first time since the 2009 general elections that Omar Abdullah will contest the Lok Sabha polls.

He was first elected to Lok Sabha in 1998, at the age of 28, when he won the elections from Srinagar, becoming the youngest member. In 1999, he was re-elected to 13th Lok Sabha, and on October 13, 1999, took oath as Union Minister of State, Commerce and Industry.

On 22 July 2001, he was made Union Minister of State for External Affairs.

However, Omar Abdullah resigned from the post on December 23, 2002, to concentrate on party work.

In the run-up to the 2002 legislative assembly elections in J-K, the junior Abdullah was chosen to lead the NC, while Farooq Abdullah shifted base to the Centre. However, Omar Abdullah lost assembly polls from Ganderbal constituency.

While Farooq Abdullah was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2002 from J-K, and then re-elected in 2009, Omar Abdullah contested and won the Lok Sabha polls from Srinagar constituency in 2004.

During the vote of confidence vote in the Lok Sabha on July 22, 2008, Omar Abdullah gave a fiery speech in Parliament which was praised by many.

Omar Abdullah then went to become Jammu and Kashmir's chief minister when his party entered into an alliance with the Congress in January 2009 after the assembly elections.

In 2009, his father resigned from the Rajya Sabha and won a seat in the Lok Sabha from Srinagar.

When the senior Abdullah contested the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat again in the 2014 elections, he was defeated by the People's Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Tariq Hameed Karra.

However, Karra resigned from Lok Sabha in 2017 leading to a by-election for the Srinagar parliamentary seat which Farooq Abdullah won defeating the PDP candidate Nazir Ahmed Khan.The NC president won the Lok Sabha polls again in 2019.

Omar Abdullah won the assembly elections in 2008 from Ganderbal constituency. He had contested and won the 2014 assembly elections from Budgam's Beerwah segment which is now a part of the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency.

After the delimitation exercise in J-K in 2022, the re-drawn Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency is now spread over the districts of Srinagar, Ganderbal, Budgam, and parts of Pulwama and Shopian comprising 19 assembly segments.

Considered the party's stronghold, Srinagar seat has been wrested by the NC 12 out of 15 times it went to polls/bypolls since 1967. The Congress, the PDP and an independent have won from the constituency once each.

The party has already fielded senior Gujjar leader Mian Altaf from Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat.

The party, which is a part of the opposition's INDIA-bloc, is contesting on three seats in Kashmir valley, while it has left two seats in Jammu and one seat in Ladakh to its ally Congress.

Srinagar goes to polls on May 13 while voting in Baramulla will be held on May 20.
National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah Friday challenged the Bharatiya Janata Party to contest Lok Sabha polls in the Kashmir Valley, saying he will quit politics if the national party's candidates do not lose their security deposits.

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff.com IMAGE: National Conference candidate for North Kashmir Omar Abdullah with his father and party president Farooq Abdullah, addresses a press conference at his residence in Srinagar, on Friday, April 12, 2024.

If the BJP was confident of its claims on 'development and normalcy', then the party should field its candidates in the three seats in the Kashmir Valley, Abdullah told reporters at a press conference Srinagar.

At the press conference, the party announced that Abdullah would be the party's Lok Sabha candidate from Baramulla and Shia leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi would contest from Srinagar.

When asked about the BJP's charge that the NC, People's Democratic Party and Congress had done no good work in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said, "I don't think I need to react. Let the people do that. If what the Prime Minister says has so much power, then let them field BJP candidates and seek votes in the name of the BJP."

"What you (BJP) did on Article 370, what you claim about development or normalcy, then field BJP candidates and see how many votes the BJP candidates would get. Your attempts to prop up A or B or C teams, leave that then. When you say that you have done so much work and that we have done nothing in Jammu and Kashmir, then we should lose our security deposits in the elections," he said.

The NC vice president, who was flanked by his father and NC president Farooq Abdullah, and senior leaders of the party, asked why the BJP was trying so many things to defeat them.

Referring to the reported meeting between BJP general secretary and in-charge J-K Tarun Chugh and Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari here, he said, "What was the need for Tarun Chugh to bring all of these on one stage to defeat us?"

"If we have done nothing, people will not accept us. If the people would not accept us, then why are you taking our names in your speeches regularly? In that case, why are you using your agencies against us?" he said.

"If you have done so much, then please field BJP candidates on these three seats (in Kashmir). If they do not lose their security deposits, then I will quit politics," he added.

Asked why he chose the Baramulla seat instead of Srinagar which he has represented in Lok Sabha several times, Abdullah said the assembly segment he last represented -- Beerwah -- is now a part of Baramulla Lok Sabha seat after the delimitation.

"So, I am technically a north Kashmir contestant," he added.

Abdullah said the was strong everywhere and therefore, his fight is not against any individual in north Kashmir or in any other part of J-K.

It is against New Delhi's attempts to prop up, which until recently were proxies, but are now open about their support to the BJP, he said.

"Chugh came here some days ago. He went to Altaf Bukhari's house. Then asked (J&K People's Conference chief) Sajad Lone to reach there and then gave them instructions there. They are now openly dancing to BJP's tunes," he said.

Abdullah said he is also contesting from north Kashmir as the party wanted to defeat the central government, which is eyeing the Baramulla constituency as Sajad Lone is contesting from the seat.

Asked about Congress' support for the NC in the Valley, he said, "There was a press conference in Delhi. Did the Congress leave any doubt after that?"

The Congress has said they will support us on three seats and we will support them on three seats, he added.

"Farooq Abdullah has already attended the programmes of the Congress' Jammu and Udhampur candidates. I am starting my programmes from Sunday from Chenab valley to prepare my colleagues to work for the success of the Congress candidates," he said.

When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement in Jammu that J-K's statehood would be restored and that assembly elections will be held soon, Abdullah said the Centre was not doing us a favour, adding that it would have been a favour if the government would have granted statehood or held elections before the Supreme Court ruling.

"This has become a compulsion on them to conclude elections before September 30," he said.

"As far as statehood is concerned, they have failed to make us understand why they took it away. Article 370 was in their manifesto, but where is the justice in downgrading the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir. They have not been able to make the SC understand that decision," he said.

On NC's chances in Anantnag-Rajouri seat, Abdullah said that while the NC was ready to contest, the BJP should be questioned on their plans for the seat.

He said the BJP does not have a candidate but are naming candidates like Ghulam Nabi Azad (Democratic Progressive Azad Party chief) from its 'A team, B team and C Team', and claimed that the former Congress leader has flip-flopped on contesting from the elections.

The NC's candidate for the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat, Mehdi, said he will try to connect with the sentiments of the people and try to 'bring out their voice which they are otherwise scared to express out of fear'. Mehdi has been vocal in his criticism of the abrogation of Article 370.

On the Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), Mehdi said, "Given the circumstances that we are faced with, I would have been glad if we all were united. We all need to introspect why we parted ways and where we went wrong. We should try to mend ways," he said.

Abdullah said the NC has kept its doors open for an alliance for the assembly elections.
The National Investigation Agency on Friday arrested two key accused, including the mastermind, in Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast case from West Bengal, a development that triggered a war of words between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the state's ruling Trinamool Congress.

IMAGE: The NIA announcement on Taahaa, the mastermind. Photograph: NIA on X

While the BJP alleged that the TMC has turned West Bengal into a "safe haven for terrorists", Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the accused were arrested due to the state police's prompt action.

The accused, Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, were staying in a lodge near Kolkata under assumed identities, a statement issued by the NIA said.

Taahaa was the mastermind behind the planning and execution of the blast while Shazib placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe, they said.

The two accused were on the run since the explosion rocked the IT city of Bengaluru on March 1.

"It was Abdul Matheen who also worked on the escape plans and managed to evade arrest all these weeks for himself and his co-accused. The duo, along with their co-accused Maaz Muneer Ahmed, were also involved in terror cases earlier," the NIA said.

IMAGE: The NIA announcement on Shazib. Photograph: NIA on X

"On Friday, the anti-terror agency finally traced the duo to Kolkata, working in coordination with various other central sister agencies and state police departments of Karnataka, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, UP, Delhi, AP and Telangana," it said.

On finding out that the "terrorists" were staying in a lodge near Kolkata under assumed identities, the NIA requested the West Bengal Police to secure the accused and the latter responded promptly, leading to a successful culmination of the search operation and apprehension of both "terrorists", it added.

Taahaa and Shazib were produced before a special NIA court in Kolkata after their arrest. The court granted three-day transit remand of the accused to the agency, the statement said.

Several customers and hotel staff members were injured, some of them grievously, in the blast that caused extensive damage to the property.

The NIA took over the probe on March 3 and had announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to the arrest of each of the accused.

Following the arrests, BJP co-incharge of West Bengal Amit Malviya hit out at the TMC, saying the party has turned West Bengal into a "safe haven for terrorists".

"NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists," Malviya said in a post on X.

Addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, Chief Minister Banerjee accused the BJP of spreading canards against the state.

She said, "Heard one BJP leader saying that Bengal is not safe. The accused were arrested within two hours following a prompt response by police. What about the states where you are in power?"

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh also countered Malviya and said the accused were arrested with the help of West Bengal Police.

"Well done @WBPolice in connection with the Bengaluru-cafe blast arrest. Even @NIA_India has acknowledged it in their statements. Any anti-forces should be strictly dealt with. But let me ask to @BJP4India and their minions - where is this arrests made from? KANTHI. We all know which family and BJP's main leader runs illegal activities from Contai," Ghosh said in a post on X without naming anyone.

Kanthi or Contai is considered to be the stronghold of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and his family.

Ghosh requested the state agencies to investigate the "family's alleged role in the incident".

West Bengal Police also termed the BJP's claims "falsehood".

"WEST BENGAL POLICE EXPOSES LIES OF BJP & THEIR CHEAP TROLLS. Falsehood at its worst! Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies," West Bengal Police posted on X.

It said the state has never been a safe haven for terrorists and it will continue to remain ever-vigilant to keep its people safe.
The Bombay high court on Friday expressed displeasure with the Maharashtra government for its failure to decide on granting benefits to the widow of an Army major, who was martyred in Jammu and Kashmir, under its policy for ex-servicemen.

IMAGE: A view of the Bombay high court. Photograph: Kind courtesy Rangan Datta/Wikimedia Commons

A division bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Firdosh Pooniwalla said it was "not happy " and "surprised" with the government's stand despite orders passed by the court asking the chief minister to consider the matter as a "special case".

The court was hearing a petition filed by Aakriti Sood, widow of late Major Anuj Sood, seeking benefits (monetary) for ex-servicemen under two government resolutions of 2019 and 2020.

Major Sood lost his life on May 2, 2020 while rescuing civilian hostages from terrorist hideouts in Jammu and Kashmir, and was awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously.

The state government has contended that only those born in Maharashtra or who lived in the state continuously for 15 years were eligible for monetary benefit and allowance.

On Friday, government pleader P P Kakade informed the bench that the benefits couldn't be extended to Sood as he was not a "domicile" of the state.

"We need to take a proper policy decision for which we need to approach the cabinet. The cabinet is not sitting now," Kakade said.

The bench, however, was not impressed with this and said every time some reason is given to not take a decision.

"You (government) are dealing with such a case...someone has sacrificed his life for the country and you are doing this. We are not happy," the court said.

The bench noted that it had directed the highest authority of the state (chief minister) to consider the matter as a special case and take an appropriate decision.

"We had requested the chief minister to take a decision. He should have taken a decision. If he could not have taken a decision or if it was so grossly improper for him to take a decision, let us know, we will deal with it," Justice Kulkarni said.

"You cannot shirk (the responsibility) now. Now you are saying the cabinet has to see. The cabinet is not sitting. This is not done. We expected much better from the government," he said.

The court in its order noted that the government has orally said the benefit cannot be granted to Sood under the privilege policy.

"We are quite surprised with this stand. We had asked the highest authority of the state to take a decision. If the chief minister is unable to take a decision then let the state government file an affidavit saying so," the bench said.

It directed the government to file an affidavit by April 17 and said it would then deal with the issue accordingly.

Aakriti Sood, in her plea, had challenged the government's communication on August 26, 2020, denying benefits claiming that Sood was not born in Maharashtra or had resided in the state for 15 years.

The petitoner contended that the family had been residing in Maharashtra for the last 15 years as desired by her late husband, who always intended to live in Pune.
'In India, political parties want to portray their leaders as cinematic heroes critical of their opponents.'

'This is where memes come into play.'

Kindly note the image has only been published for representational purposes. Photograph: ANI Photo

From the unveiling of electoral bond data to the long-anticipated arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to the surprise entries and departures in political parties, the road to the 18th Lok Sabha elections has been a whirlwind of political spins, and memes have surfaced as a potent campaigning tool.

"Memes are like magic tricks in politics, particularly for the younger generation who favour visuals over text," said Vinay Kulkarni, head of the Pune-based political digital marketing agency, Social Rajneeti.

An analysis of the official Instagram accounts of three major political parties -- Bharatiya Janata Party (7.5 million followers), Indian National Congress (3.7 million followers), and Aam Aadmi Party (1.1 million followers) -- reveals that nearly one in five posts is 'soft content'.

This term refers to the use of memes, movie posters, music, and videos edited to evoke humour or satire.

"In India, political parties want to portray their leaders as cinematic heroes critical of their opponents. This is where memes come into play," said Niranjan R, a political consultant and founder of Political Analytics-India (PA-I).

The BJP's official Instagram account has launched two campaigns targeting the INDIA bloc: 'Ghamandiya' and 'Raavan Dahan' (videos featuring the faces of INDIA bloc leaders on a single head).

Memes using keywords like 'vasooli', chande ka dhandha', and 'tanaashah' (dictator) are circulating on the official Instagram handles of various Opposition parties.

"The Congress has been creating memes to highlight the Narendra Modi government's failures. We believe that memes play a crucial role in conveying our messages to younger audiences," said Vaibhav Walia, chairman of the Congress' communication war-room 2024.

Strategic consumption

Experts argue that political parties use memes for more than just attracting attention.

"They (memes) simplify complex issues, making them easier to understand," said Kulkarni. He further said memes spread rapidly online, helping political parties engage young people with their campaigns.

Niranjan, based in Tamil Nadu, noted that memes are particularly useful when language barriers exist.

"A small text or a voiceover on a leader's photo or video can make it relatable," he explained.

Stickers and graphics on WhatsApp with the help of tools like Tenor GIF keyboard assist in making such content more accessible.

However, Kulkarni warned that while supporters crave memes, leaders must exercise caution to avoid potential backlash.

Vikash Sarah, a social media coordinator at the Indian Youth Congress, observed that while political memes have a wide reach, they can detract from the seriousness of an issue.

"Sometimes meme-based choices are impulsive and may lack critical thinking," Sarah further said.

Another consumption pattern suggests that hard political content can be repulsive.

"When it is hidden behind a meme, it is far more acceptable," noted a political satirist who goes by the name of Dr Medusa on social media platforms X and YouTube, adding that sometimes influencers portray themselves as apolitical groups and then slowly start infusing political angle to so-called 'explanatory' or 'funny' videos.

Setting narratives

According to Harish Bijoor, founder of Harish Bijoor Consults, a Bengaluru-based brand and business strategy consultancy, memes can significantly influence political narratives.

"An image is created through investment, hard work, and integrity. It can be easily undermined by memes. They may seem fun, but they are serious business," Bijoor said.

In India, a country with over 360 million Instagram users -- the highest in the world -- content often goes viral online before impacting the ground reality.

"The popularity of terms like 'Pappu' and 'Pannauti' for political leaders starts on social media, said Dr Medusa.

Initiatives like the National Creators Awards and the presence of Cabinet ministers at shows hosted by influencers, Dr Medusa added, are big signs that political parties are relying hugely on soft content.

Grey area

The race for creativity, the accessibility of tools, and the urgency of elections often blur the line between what is humorous and what is offensive.

There have been instances of comedy groups and pages being sued for producing and sharing 'defamatory' content against political groups. However, the vast reach of the Internet still places memes in a grey area.

"Although it's challenging for political parties to track every meme, legal hiring does increase during election campaigning, and defamation notices are sent across parties," said Abhijat Bhardwaj, a Delhi-based lawyer with over seven years of experience in the field.

He highlighted that finding the originator is difficult in this digital age, but noted: "The Supreme Court, in many legal precedents, has taken a stern view and held that merely 'sharing' an offensive meme falls under the broad umbrella of defamation."

Photograph curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Rain likely. Low 44F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a half an inch..

Tonight

Rain likely. Low 44F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a half an inch.
Court hands down 5-year sentence 'incitement to secession' for posts to Facebook, X, Instagram and Telegram.

Two women sit outside the Wanchai district court in Hong Kong, Dec. 13, 2021, where Joseph John was sentenced this week.

A court in Hong Kong has handed a five-year jail term to a dual Portuguese national for "incitement to secession" after he headed a political party to campaign for independence that was registered in the United Kingdom.

Joseph John, also known as Wong Kin-chung, was the first European dual national to be convicted under Hong Kong's 2020 National Security Law, which applies to anyone of any nationality, anywhere in the world.

John, a Portuguese citizen who also holds a Hong Kong permanent identity card and is a resident of the United Kingdom, was jailed for 60 months by Judge Ernest Lin after being found guilty of "incitement to secession" for managing the Hong Kong Independence Party's social media accounts between July 2020 and November 2022.

Rights groups said John's sentence underlines the fact that anyone can be arrested, prosecuted and jailed under Hong Kong's security laws, regardless of their nationality or place of residence, on the basis of words and actions carried out overseas.

The prosecution accused John of "publishing, making available and/or continuing to make available statements and photos on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Telegram."

Judge Lin told the court that, regardless of whether the 42 posts were written by the defendant personally, they included elements of "resistance to the Hong Kong and Chinese governments," and had continued over a period of 28 months, which suggests they were planned rather than a form of emotional "venting."

"The defendant did not hesitate to distort history, demonize the Chinese government, and encourage the destruction of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Chinese governments through political and even military means," Lin said.

"He also sought help from foreign governments, called on people who were prepared to sacrifice their lives to serve as righteous men, and to raise funds to hire mercenaries, seeking to overthrow the Hong Kong SAR and the Chinese government by force, and called for foreign coalition forces to march into Hong Kong," he said, accusing John's posts of "twisted logic and superficial slogans."

Joseph John managed the Hong Kong Independence Party's social media accounts  Facebook is shown here  between July 2020 and November 2022. (Hong Kong Independence Party via Facebook)

Lin said John's emigration from Hong Kong 10 years ago suggested he was loyal to other countries than China, and that his case was deemed "serious" under definitions given in the National Security Law.

'A dangerous precedent'

The London-based rights group Hong Kong Watch condemned the sentence, saying it "signals that dual and foreign nationals are at serious risk of imprisonment in Hong Kong under the National Security Law, and the new Safeguarding National Security Ordinance" passed last month.

With the passage of the new security law, known as Article 23, last month, convictions of dual and foreign nationals are an increasing risk, and likely to be more frequent and severe, the group warned, calling on European governments to condemn the sentence.

It said the case also carried implications for the case of British citizen Jimmy Lai, who is on day 58 of his national security trial for owning the now-defunct newspaper Apple Daily, the largest pro-democracy newspaper in Hong Kong, and for participating in pro-democracy activities.

"There is now a dangerous precedent for a dual national being convicted under the Hong Kong National Security Law, the group's Chief Executive Benedict Rogers said in a statement, adding that journalists, politicians and human rights groups are particularly at risk.

The U.S.-based Hong Kong Democracy Council commented via X that Johns crime consisted of making social media posts for the obscure HK Independence Party."

It said 20 people have been sentenced so far under the National Security Law to a total of more than 67 years in prison, including nine sentenced to juvenile training centers.

Thousands more have been jailed or arrested on public order charges relating to recent protests, and under colonial-era sedition laws in an ongoing crackdown on public dissent and peaceful political opposition.

Former British colonial governor Chris Patten wrote in a recent op-ed that the latest national security law aims to "sever all contact between freedom advocates in the city and the outside world."

Writing in a March 29 commentary published to Project Syndicate, Patten said some of the offenses in the Safeguarding National Security Law are "so vaguely defined that they allow the authorities to detain virtually anyone they want on fabricated or absurd charges."

He said someone could be arrested "for keeping an old copy of the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily  and showing it to a friend in their own home."

Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Roseanne Gerin.
The girls were part of a group that was trafficked to the Chinese-run casino near the Thai border.

In video screenshots from a 2023 video, a youth being forced to work at the Kosai Casino in Myawaddy, Myanmar is tied to a column and tased [left]. Injuries to his back are seen at right.

Two teenage girls who were held at a Chinese-run casino in Myanmar for more than two years have returned home to Laos after a 40,000 yuan (US$5,500) fee was paid to gain their freedom, they told RFA.

The two girls were part of a group of 16 young Laotians trafficked to work as scammers at a place called the Casino Kosai in an isolated development near the city of Myawaddy, the scene of recent fighting in Myanmars civil war.

A group of people helped get them out of the casino and brought them to the Laos border, they told Radio Free Asia. The 40,000 yuan fee was paid by their Chinese boyfriends to facilitate the release, one of the girls said.

The Chinese boss finally agreed to release my friend and I, but we had to pay a fee, she told RFA. We also had to find those who we can trust. Otherwise, we could end up being sold to another place.

The Chinese-owned Casino Kosai (shown) in Myawaddy, Myanmar near the Thai border. (Citizen journalist)





Recent intense fighting in the area between Myanmars military junta and anti-junta rebels delayed their travel to the border by several days, they said. The two girls arrived in Luang Namtha province in northern Laos on Monday.

RFA confirmed that the other 14 young Laotians remain at the casino, where they have been forced to call people and trick them into buying fake investments.

If they dont reach quota goals, they are struck with rods or forced to stand in the sun for hours, their parents told RFA.

I called my son last week and he told me that the Chinese boss said that they may release some of them on June 15, the mother of one of the remaining 14 told RFA. I have to wait and see first. If nothing happens, I will try other ways to help my son.

Trafficked Lao youths are seen after gaining their freedom from a Chinese-run casino in Myawaddy, Myanmar, April 2023. Radio Free Asia has blurred their faces to protect their identities for their safety. (Citizen journalist)





The families of the young Laotians have appealed to government officials on several occasions to intervene in the case.

A reliable source told RFA on Wednesday that the 14 teenagers can be released if the casino is paid a US$3,000 fee.

It seems impossible for me to get that amount of money, another parent said. I feel very hopeless now to hear it will cost this amount of money.

Translated by Phouvong. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.
The priest was seriously injured, according to eyewitnesses.

Two masked gunmen shot a Catholic priest in northern Myanmar on Friday morning, eyewitnesses told Radio Free Asia.

The men entered St. Patrick Catholic Church in Kachin states Mohnyin township, interrupting a sermon and shooting the parish priest three times in front of his congregation, residents said.

Paul Hkwi Shane Aung was hit in his jaw, hand and thigh, according to one man in the congregation, adding that he survived the attack, but is seriously injured.

"He was shot while preaching after reading the Bible, he said, declining to be identified for fear of reprisals.

They wore black caps and masks. They fired once while entering through the church door, and then again when they reached the center of the church. Then they approached him and fired a third time.

The unidentified gunmen escaped after the shooting, said the local. The priest was taken to Kachin states capital city Myitkyina for emergency treatment.

Since Myanmars military coup in 2021, Christian clergymen in the predominantly Buddhist country have been a frequent target of anonymous gunmen and junta troops. On March 18, Nammye Hkun Jaw Li, a religious leader in Kachin states Mogaung township was assassinated by unknown attackers. The community leader had been active in anti-military protests.

In December 2022 the junta arrested prominent Christian leader Hkalam Samson for his close ties to the Kachin Independence Army. He was sentenced to six years in prison on April 7, 2023.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn.
Thousands of new civilians have been displaced following the rebel capture of Myawaddy, according to the Karen health department.

A Thai soldier mans his position on the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Mae Sot, on the Thailand-Myanmar border, April 13, 2024.

Updated April 12, 2024, 04:23 p.m. ET.

Thailands Ministry of Foreign Affairs has discouraged Myanmars junta from further violence in the border region after the army lost a major border town, the Thai foreign minister said Friday.

Allied rebel forces, including the Karen National Liberation Army, or KNLA, captured a final junta battalion base in Kayin states Myawaddy on Thursday morning, effectively gaining control of the city and causing thousands to flee into the border region.

We have sent a message to the [Myanmar junta], as a matter of fact, that we do not want to see violence there, Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said at a press conference in Mae Sot on Friday afternoon. We are also talking to ASEAN by way of statement, as well, but certainly to get everyone back on track to the five-point consensus, he said, referring to the 2021 plan which included a call for a ceasefire and dialogue between all parties in Myanmar.

The takeover has caused neighboring Thailands armed forces to deploy soldiers alongside Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridges, which regulate both people and goods and connect Myanmars Myawaddy to Thailands Mae Sot. Thailand is prepared to accommodate four different affected groups, the foreign minister said.

This includes junta soldiers, 200 of which could be seen on Thursday and Friday, sheltering in northern Myawaddy near Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge No. 2.

At this point, there is no indication yet that they want to cross over, Parnpree said. For Thailand, we have no issue addressing any type of entry into the country on a strictly humanitarian basis.

Parnpree said that if the soldiers request entry, they must first disarm and don civilian clothing before they can cross the border.

"Then, they will be allowed to enter Thailand as ordinary citizens," he said. "In accordance with U.N. directives and humanitarian principles, we will not send them back to a dangerous place.

Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara (C) walks next to media representatives as he visits the Tak border checkpoint on the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Thailand's Mae Sot district April 12, 2024. (Manan Vatsyayana/AFP)

Thailand allowed 600 junta personnel, including soldiers and their families, to be sent back to Myanmar through Mae Sot by plane on Sunday.

Parnpree said that in the event further conflict erupts, Thai nationals living near the border would be given shelter and access to necessities, while preparations have been made and assistance provided to Myanmar nationals to escape to safety.

According to the Karen Department for Health and Welfare, fighting in Myawaddy district has displaced 2,000 new people into Thailands Tak border province. These people are in need of food, shelter and medicine, a spokesperson said. About 30 people have been injured, but the number of casualties is still unknown.

New fighting

Despite Parnpree's call to end the violence, residents of Myawaddy told RFA Burmese that the KNLA and other rebel forces, including the anti-junta People's Defense Force, or PDF, carried out attacks on the soldiers, who had "dug in" at the bridge.

At around 7 p.m., the PDF dropped two bombs into the area of Friendship Bridge No. 2 with a drone ... and both bombs exploded," said one resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, citing security concerns. "The junta soldiers trapped at the truck terminal near the bridge returned fire."

The resident said junta soldiers near the bridge fled to the bank of the Moei River, which separates the two countries, and tried to cross into Thailand, "but the Thai army was patrolling along the bank and wouldn't allow them in."

He said the junta later conducted two airstrikes on the base formerly occupied by its soldiers in Myawaddy.

Myanmar resident wait for immigration check point cross at the 1st Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Mae Sot in Thailand's Tak province April 12, 2024. (Sakchai Lalit/AP)

RFA was not immediately able to independently confirm the drone attack or the airstrike, or whether there were any casualties resulting from the fighting.

A member of the PDF, who also declined to be named, told RFA that the junta has sent a convoy of armored vehicles from Hpa-an township to Myawaddy as part of a bid to retake the town.

The military regime has not released any statement regarding the situation in Myawaddy.

Attempts by RFA to reach Colonel Min Kyaw Thu, the junta's security and border affairs minister for Kayin state, and junta spokesperson Major General Zaw Min Tun for comment went unanswered Friday.

State of trade

Parnpree also said Friday that trade between the two countries has already been impacted by the conflict in Myanmar. Thailand closed the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge No. 2 on Thursday, stopping the flow of commodities across the border, and the foreign minister said it will not be reopened until "peace is restored."

According to the juntas ministry of commerce, the value of trade through Myawaddy between April 2023 and February 2024 amounted to US$1 billion, down by more than 40% from US$1.9 billion a year earlier.

Myanmar nationals walk on the Thailand-Myanmar Friendship bridge to cross over into Thailand, towards the Tak border checkpoint in Thailand's Mae Sot district, April 12, 2024. (Manan Vatsyayana/AFP)

Traders in Myawaddy told RFA that the Myanmar kyat had already lost value to the Thai baht and said they expect the price of goods imported from Thailand to soar.

While trade also flows across the border from Thailand via the Myanmar towns of Tachilek, Kawthaung, Htee Khee and Mawdaung, Myawaddy sees the largest volume by far, they said.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes, Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.

This story has been updated to include additional comments by Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara related to allowing junta soldiers to cross the border and the state of trade at the border, as well as details on the latest fighting between rebel forces and junta soldiers sheltering at Friendship Bridge No. 2.
The junta is keeping her hidden because they cant compete with her politically, experts say.

An artists interpretation based on interviews with family and a prisoner depicts Aung San Suu Kyi in solitary confinement in Naypyidaw Prison, Myanmar.

For over a year, the whereabouts of Myanmars jailed democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi has been a mystery. But a source close to her legal team told Radio Free Asia they believe she is in solitary confinement in Naypyidaw Prison, in the capital.

Each week, her legal team receives a list of items she needs in detention, which they deliver every Monday.

Last Monday, I delivered the requested materials to Naypyidaw Prison, said the source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. I had to send the materials there, so I assumed she was there.

The source said that each week, they inquire about Suu Kyis health, and authorities say she is doing well, despite earlier reports that she was suffering from dental issues.

Members of her legal team havent seen her since Dec. 30, 2022, at Naypyidaw Prison, when the junta barred them from further visiting her. Multiple requests to meet with her have gone unanswered.

Suu Kyis economic policy advisor, Australian economist Sean Turnell  who was imprisoned with her for a while but later released  and her son Kim Aris also believe she is in Naypyidaw Prison, but have no proof.

Granted freedom in 2010 after years of house arrest under the former junta, Suu Kyi, 78, was arrested in the aftermath of the February 2021 coup, which removed the democratically elected government from power.

As state counsellor, she served as Myanmars de facto leader. After the coup, she was sentenced by the junta to 33 years on 19 charges, but that sentence was later reduced to 27 years.

Keeping her hidden

Given Suu Kyis popularity among the public, the junta wants to keep her hidden from view, said political commentator Than Soe Naing.

As long as she is in the political arena, they cannot compete with her politically, he said. Therefore, Aung San Suu Kyi was removed from public view without disclosing her exact location.

A satellite image of Naypyidaw Prison shows a building in the center that was built between Jan. 31, 2022 and April 24, 2023. (Airbus with RFA annotation)

Attempts to contact Deputy Director General Naing Win, spokesperson for the juntas Prison Department, to inquire about Suu Kyi have gone unanswered.

In January, her son Kim Aris, who lives in the United Kingdom, received a letter from her  the first communication from her since the ban on visits, and the first time he had heard from her since before the coup that removed the democratically elected government that she was de facto leader of.

The letter largely concerned family affairs, and little else, he said.

Aris recently told RFA that she is likely being held in Naypyidaw Prison in solitary confinement, but wasnt sure, and added that the junta had ignored his repeated requests for information on her status.

I have no reason to believe shes been moved to any form of house arrest, he said. The only house she has is the house in [Yangon], and I know shes not there.

Too hot or too cold

Aris said he doubts his mother has access to the medical treatment she needs for the ongoing problems with her teeth, which would make eating difficult.

If she is being held in Naypyidaw Prison, he said, she is likely enduring difficult conditions.

Its either too hot or its too cold, he said. Theres mosquitoes, theres rats. Its not a very nice place.

An artists interpretation based on interviews with family and a prisoner depicts Aung San Suu Kyi in solitary confinement in Naypyidaw Prison, Myanmar. (Illustration by Rebel Pepper/RFA)

It is now the hottest time of year in Myanmar, which has been sweltering in a heat wave with temperatures climbing as high as 40 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit).

U.S. and British Embassies in Yangon did not respond to questions about Suu Kyis whereabouts, but directed RFA Burmese to earlier statements condemning her detention and calling for her immediate release.

Last month, the junta attempted to auction off her lakeside Yangon home for US$90 million, but no bidders emerged. At that residence, she had received U.S. President Barack Obama, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning Suu Kyi has seen her reputation tarnish during her time as de facto leader of the country, when she defended the military against allegations of genocide against the Rohingya people at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands.

The militarys alleged atrocities included indiscriminate killings, mass rape and village torchings as more than 740,000 fled across the border to Bangladesh.

Worst of the lot

Turnell, Suu Kyis economic policy advisor, was arrested after the coup on charges of espionage and he spent one year and nine months in detention, mostly in deplorable conditions in Yangons Insein Prison, but also in Naypyidaw Prison with Suu Kyi.

Turnell told RFA that, to the best of my knowledge, she is where I left her back in November of 2022, which is inside the main Naypyidaw Prison. He said hed seen no evidence to support rumors that shed since been moved to house arrest.

During the time they were together, he said, Suu Kyi was being held in a small structure [that] had been built for her  right in the center of the prison compound with a wall around it so that other prisoners could not contact her.

An artists interpretation based on interviews with family and a prisoner depicts Aung San Suu Kyi in Naypyidaw Prison, Myanmar. (Illustration by Rebel Pepper/RFA)

He described it as a rudimentary, two-room building, somewhere between a proper structure and a hut, that lacked air conditioning or curtains for the windows.

Turnell said that the physical conditions, treatment and food in all of the prisons he was held in were awful, but he called Naypyidaw the worst of the lot, adding that its proximity to the junta generals prompted prison guards to be that little bit harsher.

The climate in Naypyidaw is really horrible, he said. Its in an area that used to be a mangrove swamp  and thats why the jail was full of insects and rodents and all of that. And, of course, that adds to the discomfort of the place.

While such conditions would be difficult for any prisoner, they could be life-threatening for someone nearly 80 years of age with existing health problems.

Junta waiting game

Turnell said Suu Kyis solitary confinement in Naypyidaw Prison is just one example of how Myanmars current junta is so much worse than the others  in every aspect.

The savagery of it, the brutality, the almost bestial nature of the things that they do is just an order of magnitude worse, it seems to me, then previous military regimes, he said. The treatment of Daw Suu just adds to that, he added, using an honorific.

Turnell said he doubts the military regime will set her free, given the way they have treated her in the three years since the coup.

They seem to be playing some sort of waiting game, he said. But if they are doing that, that may be the wrong strategy for them because the future does not look bright for them at all.



Translated by Kalyar Lwin and Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
U.S. President Joe Biden escorts Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to their trilateral summit at the White House in Washington, April 11, 2024.

The Philippines stands to reap an economic windfall through a new security partnership with the U.S. and Japan that their leaders unveiled at a Washington summit Thursday, in seeking to dull the edge of Chinas influence in the Asia-Pacific.

U.S. President Joe Biden hosted Philippine and Japanese leaders Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Fumio Kishida at the White House in what was billed as an inaugural tripartite summit. It came on the heels of surging Chinese assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea.

As part of a joint statement outlining their collective vision for regional security, the three leaders announced plans for collaborating on economic projects in the Philippines, including developing an infrastructure and high-tech connectivity corridor on the main island of Luzon.

The three allies were careful to describe their new partnership as a defense cooperation pact in nature.

We meet today as friends and partners, bound by a shared vision and pursuit of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, President Marcos said.

It is a partnership, borne not out of convenience nor of expediency, but as a natural progression of a deepening relations and robust cooperation amongst our three nations, linked by a profound respect for democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (second from left), attends a trilateral meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (not pictured) in the East Room of the White House in Washington, April 11, 2024. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)

Marcos, the namesake son of the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, has steered his country back to close relations with the United States, its traditional ally, after those ties had cooled under his predecessor, who drew the Philippines closer to China.

Marcos said the summit was the culmination of cooperation by the three nations that had started even before the historic one-day meeting took place.

Security officials of the three nations already had been meeting to lay the foundation for trilateral maritime exercises, and the expansion of annual large-scale maritime exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines, he said.

The trilateral meeting, Marcos said, would likely evolve in the future, as the three partners all face increasingly complex challenges that require an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order.

That was an indirect reference to China. The three allies have often accused Beijing of ignoring international rules as it moves to expand its reach in the region.

More directly, the joint statement expressed the three nations steadfast opposition to the dangerous and coercive use by China of its coast guard and maritime militia ships in the South China Sea as well as efforts to disrupt other countries offshore resource exploration.

We reiterate serious concern over [Chinas] repeated obstruction of Philippine vessels exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and the disruption of supply lines to Second Thomas Shoal, it said, referring to a reef also known as Ayungin Shoal, which lies in South China Sea waters within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Japan, for its part, is locked in a territorial dispute with China in the East China Sea.

In their statement, the leaders reiterated their strong opposition to any attempts by the PRC [Peoples Republic of China] to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea.

This includes actions that seek to undermine Japans longstanding and peaceful administration of the Senkaku Islands.

On Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province, the leaders meanwhile affirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

This is a meeting that looks ahead. As we deepen our ties and enhance our coordination, we seek to identify ways of growing our economies and making them more resilient, climate-proofing our cities and our societies, sustaining our development progress, and forging a peaceful world for the next generation, Marcos said.

Demonstrators rally outside the White House in Washington to protest the visit of Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., April 11, 2024. (Drew Angerer /AFP)

Marcos father was a staunch ally of the United States, which during the Cold War operated huge naval and air bases in areas where the hi-tech Luzon corridor is to be installed.

Last year, Marcos Jr.s administration agreed to a controversial deal with Washington to grant the U.S. military greater access on a rotational basis to bases in the northern Philippines.

The agreement has angered anti-war activists in the Philippines, who warn it could provoke Beijing and that their country could be caught in the middle of fighting should a conflict break out between the U.S. and China over Taiwan. On Thursday, protesters gathered near the White House as well as outside the U.S. Embassy in Manila to denounce the bilateral pact.

In lockstep

On Thursday, Biden reiterated that his administrations support for Manila was ironclad and that the two countries were bound by a mutual treaty to defend each other in times of foreign aggression. This decades-old pact was updated recently to cover civilian vessels, as well as ships from the Philippine Coast Guard.

Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty, Biden said in remarks at the White House.

In this handout photo received through the U.S. Embassy in Manila, two Philippine Air Force FA-50s (left) fly alongside two U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles over the South China Sea during joint maritime and air patrols, Nov. 21, 2023. (Airman 1st Class Alexis Redin/U.S. Air Force/AFP)

On Friday, the national security advisers of the Philippines and the United States, together with their respective defense chiefs and top diplomats, took part in an unprecedented 3+3 meeting in Washington.

Our alliance is stronger than ever, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said before the meeting at the State Department. At the Pentagon, were working in lockstep with our colleagues at the [Philippine] Department of National Defense to strengthen interoperability between our forces, to expand our operational coordination, and to stand up to coercion in the South China Sea.

Last year, the two allies launched joint sea and air patrols in the contested waterway.

U.S. Marines with the First Marine Expeditionary Force conduct close-quarter battle operations along with their Filipino counterparts as part of the Marine Exercise 2024 at Camp Abubakar in Sultan Kudarat, southern Philippines, April 11, 2024. (Mark Navales/BenarNews)

Meanwhile in Beijing, Chinas foreign ministry criticized the summit in Washington as bloc politics.

We firmly oppose any acts that stoke and drive up tensions and harm other countries strategic security and interests, ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a regularly scheduled news conference on Friday.

We are seriously against forming exclusive groupings in this region. Japan and the Philippines have every right to develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not introduce bloc confrontation into this region, she said.

Economic projects

During their meeting on Thursday, Marcos, Biden and Kishida also launched the Luzon Corridor  where they pledged to accelerate coordinated investments in high-impact projects including Subic Bay and Clark north of Manila.

Those were the sites of two of Americas largest overseas bases until a nationalist Philippine senate voted to end their lease in the early 1990s.

The corridor, they said, symbolized their enhanced economic cooperation.

Japan, the Philippines and the United States are also partnering to expand cooperation and investments in other areas of the Philippines, they said.

The U.S. State Department said that the Luzon Corridor was expected to have an outsized impact on critical industries, including semiconductors. As part of the plan, the U.S. government would seek to partner with multilateral development institutions as well as the private sector to deploy capital and spur economic activity across the corridor.

Windfall

Defense analyst Chester Cabalza, the founding president of International Development and Security Cooperation, a Philippines think-tank, said both Washington and Tokyo were rewarding Manila for its principled stand on the South China Sea.

Cabalza said it couldnt get any clearer than that, and the windfall of economic pledges was clearly a reward of sorts.

These grew from the bravery of fighting for free and open trade in the Indo-Pacific and by supporting American and Japanese deterrence against a Chinese agenda of dominance in the contested waters, Cabalza told BenarNews on Friday, noting that both industrialized nations had to prepare against Chinas increasing military might including by way of forging alliances.

This is an experimental forging of allegiance for a plausible shooting war in the region, he said.

The analyst noted that the three-nation partnership could boost business confidence, and added that any country could counter China without fear of losing out from Beijings much-touted economic prowess.

The triumvirate has a combined gross domestic product output that is far greater than China to counter Chinas affluence and influence in Southeast Asia, Cabalza said.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.
Zumretay Arkin says China needs to be held accountable for rights violations against Uyghurs.

Zumretay Arkin, director of global advocacy and chair of the Womens Committee at the World Uyghur Congress, in Geneva, Sept. 16, 2021.

A Uyghur activist on Thursday received a Four Freedoms award from the Roosevelt Foundation for years of campaigning for the rights of Muslim Uyghurs in far-western Chinas Xinjiang region.

Zumretay Arkin, director of global advocacy and chair of the Womens Committee at the World Uyghur Congress, was presented the Freedom of Worship Award at a ceremony attended by members of the Dutch royal family and Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

Zumretay Arkin is awarded the Freedom of Worship medal by the Roosevelt Foundation at a ceremony in Middelburg, the Netherlands, April 11, 2024. (Zumretay Arkin via Twitter)

Based in the Netherlands, the Roosevelt Foundation honors individuals and organizations committed to protecting the Four Freedoms  freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want and freedom from fear  proclaimed by former U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt in a 1941 speech.

The awards ceremony was held in Middelburg, capital of the Dutch province of Zeeland. Roosevelts ancestors were from a village named Oud-Vossemeer in Zeeland.

Me, standing here, accepting this prestigious award is a strong message to the Chinese government that we will not be silenced, Arkin said during her acceptance speech.

The persecution of the Uyghurs is not merely a domestic issue confined to the borders of China; it is a matter of global concern that demands our collective action and solidarity, she said.

Arkin, 30, called on the international community not to remain silent in the face of egregious human rights abuses and to hold the Chinese government accountable for its actions while demanding an end to the repression of religious freedom and genocide in East Turkistan, Uyghurs preferred name for Xinjiang.

Arkin has drawn international attention to the suppression of religious freedom and violations of Uyghur human rights, founded a Uyghur friendship group for women worldwide, and worked to support Uyghur refugees, according to the Four Freedoms Awards website.

She has advocated for the protection and preservation of Uyghur culture, religion and language in international forums, including at the United Nations, the website said.

Zumretay Arkin (3rd from R) stands with other award winners and officials at the Roosevelt Foundation in Middelburg, the Netherlands, April 11, 2024. (Zumretay Arkin via Twitter)

The U.S. and other Western governments have deemed Chinas severe repression of Uyghurs in Xinjiang, including mass internments in camps, torture, and forced abortions and sterilizations of Uyghur women, as a genocide and crimes against humanity.

In February 2021, the parliament of the Netherlands was the first European legislature to pass a nonbinding motion saying that the treatment of the Uyghurs in China amounted to genocide.

Edited by Malcolm Foster.
An international pressure group representing writers, artists and journalists is presenting its top award to Vietnamese author, journalist and dissident Pham Doan Trang.

PEN America said Thursday Trang would receive the 2024 PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award on May 16 at a ceremony in New York.

The annual award is given to writers jailed for their views and activities. Trang, 45, was arrested in 2020 and accused of anti-state propaganda.

She was sentenced to nine years in prison and sent to An Phuoc Prison in Binh Duong province 1,448 kilometers (900 miles) from her home, making it hard to receive family visits.

Trang has published several books about democracy, including Non-Violent Resistance, Politics for the Common People, A Handbook for Freedom Fighters, and Politics of a Police State.

She also participated in writing bilingual reports on human rights and democracy in Vietnam, notably the Dong Tam Report, written about the deadly police land seizure in the suburbs of Hanoi in 2020.

Pham Doan Trang has galvanized the Vietnamese people through her writings on democracy, human rights, environmental degradation, and womens empowerment, said PEN America CEO Suzanne Nossel.

The Vietnamese government has persecuted and jailed Trang in an effort to still her voice.

She has sacrificed her health and freedom in the pursuit of justice.

Despite the governments crackdown on dissent and activism, her powerful words continue to inspire people across Vietnam and throughout the world.

In 2019, fearing arrest, Trang released a letter and video message saying, I dont want freedom for just myself; thats too easy. I want something greater: freedom for Vietnam. It might seem like some grand goal, but its totally possible  with your support.

Trang has received many awards for human rights activities including the Woman of Courage Award 2022 from the U.S. State Department, the Media Freedom Award 2022 from the British and Canadian governments, the 2017 Homo Homini Award from People In Need (Czech Republic), the 2019 Press Freedom Award from Reporters Without Borders (RFS), the 2022 Martin Ennals Award, and the 2022 International Press Freedom Award from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

PEN America has repeatedly called for Trangs release and the repeal of the law under which she was prosecuted.

Trangs lawyer Dang Dinh Manh, who fled to the United States fearing prosecution in Vietnam, and Trangs friend, Quynh-Vi Tran, co-founder and executive director of Legal Initiatives for Vietnam, who lives in Taiwan, will receive the PEN/Barbey award on her behalf.

Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.
A top EU diplomat on April 11 said he wants to see "genuine, substantial negotiations" between Armenia and Azerbaijan leading to a peace treaty, agreements on border delimitation, and opening of transport links.

Toivo Klaar, the EU's special representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, told RFE/RL that Armenia and Azerbaijan could move forward in the peace process faster if conditions are right.

"It should not take that long to arrive at a positive outcome if the political will is there, if the commitment is there. And that is what we want to work for together with Armenia, together with Azerbaijan, that indeed we get from the point where we are to a positive outcome," Klaar said.

Klaar added that Brussels supports the Turkey-Armenia normalization process, and he hopes the special envoys for normalization talks designated by Yerevan and Ankara will meet soon.

"My hope would be that in the near future this process would indeed move forward and show results for the sake of Armenia, for the sake of Turkey, for the sake of the region," he said.

As for Armenia's possible membership in the EU in the future, Klaar said it depends on political decisions made in Yerevan, Brussels, and the member states.

"There are so many elements related to this. Certainly what we are seeing right now is a strengthening of relations between the European Union and Armenia, which corresponds to the interests of the European Union, which corresponds to the interests of Armenia. How this relationship will evolve, we will have to see," he said.

Compared to only a few years ago, the relationship between the EU and Armenia has evolved significantly, he added, but it's too early to say where things will end up.

Armenia is only starting to catch up on some elements of the process that it could have achieved 10 years ago, he said.

"We are catching up on maybe lost time that we have had in our relationship," the diplomat said.

Armenia has long been a close ally of Russia but in recent months has taken steps to distance itself from that alliance, apparently angered by what it saw as a lack of support from Moscow during the 2020 war in Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Armenian government has also criticized Russian peacekeepers deployed to Nagorno-Karabakh of failing to stop Azerbaijan's lightning offensive in September last year that ended with Baku regaining control over the breakaway region that for three decades had been under ethnic Armenians' control.

In other signs of Armenia's move to distance itself from Russia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said last month that his country had frozen its membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), and the Armenian Foreign Ministry said on April 10 that Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan will not attend a meeting on April 12 of his counterparts from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), a Moscow-led grouping of former Soviet republics that was set up immediately after the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991.

The CSTO has been at the heart of Armenia's turn away from Moscow. The Pashinian government has long criticized the CSTO for its "failure to respond to the security challenges" facing Armenia.

Asked whether Armenia's membership in organizations like the Russian-led CSTO was an obstacle to the country's further integration with the EU, Klaar said: "Right now we have to look at what the Armenian government and what the Armenian people want to do, where they want to go, and how they see best the development of our relations."

A meeting last week in Brussels between Pashinian, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell represented "a real strengthening of EU-Armenia relations," Klaar said, adding that the United States is there to help support the resilience of Armenia.

At the meeting the EU unveiled an aid package for Armenia in the amount of 270 million euros (about $290 million) to be made available over the next four years, with the United States pledging $65 million in additional "development assistance" to Armenia this year.
One year ago, Hamas -- the U.S.- and EU-designated Palestinian terrorist group that controls the Gaza Strip -- carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel, the deadliest in the countrys history.

In response, Israel launched an aerial bombardment and ground invasion of the Palestinian enclave to destroy Hamas and rescue the 251 hostages taken by the group.

Israel has expanded its war in recent weeks by invading Lebanon and launching air strikes targeting Hezbollah, the armed group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon.

RFE/RL spoke to Lior Yohanani, manager of quantitative research at the Israel Democracy Institute, a Jerusalem-based independent research center, which on October 7 released a wide-ranging survey of Israeli public opinion after one year of war.

RFE/RL: Can you explain what your study found as to how Israelis view the past year since Hamas's October 7 attack?



Lior Yohanani: Well, I think Israelis still don't see October 7 as an event that's over. Sure, the actual horrific events of that day ended, but Israelis are still living with the consequences.

There are two main aspects to this. First, since October 7, Israel has been in this multifront war that doesn't seem to have an end in sight. And then, of course, there is the issue of the hostages still being held in Gaza. So, we're seeing a sharp drop in people's sense of personal security. Almost three quarters of the public feel less safe compared to before October 7, and that's despite a year of war and some significant military achievements. On the flip side, we're also seeing that most people say their lives have returned to normal when it comes to things like work, media consumption, and family and social gatherings.

Another thing we're noticing is that the Israeli public is giving pretty low marks to all the political and military leaders for the performance since October 7. For example, almost two-thirds of Israelis are rating Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu's performance since then as poor or not good.

RFE/RL: How has Israel's involvement in a two-front conflict, in both Gaza and Lebanon, as well as a confrontation with Iran affected public opinion among Israelis?



Yohanani: It's tough to answer that question, because we're at the point where things could go in a few different directions. In the last few weeks, we've seen a major escalation in the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, and just last week, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, which Israel is expected to respond to. In a survey we just did recently, we asked whether Israeli society and the military could handle fighting on two or more fronts for an extended period of time, and the results were pretty striking. Over 70 percent believe that yes, both Israeli society and the military can handle that kind of prolonged fighting. So, while the situation is complex and evolving, there seems to be a strong sense of resilience and capability among Israelis, even in the face of these multiple threats. But of course, public opinion could shift depending on how events unfold in the coming weeks or months.



RFE/RL: Is there support for Netanyahus response to October 7? Is there debate in Israeli society, as well as political circles, over Netanyahus strategic choices?



Yohanani: First of all, it's important to say that the Israeli public has largely supported significant military operation against Hamas in Gaza. That said, the Israeli discourse around the October 7 events, the ongoing war, and especially toward Prime Minister Netanyahu, is very polarized between right-wing supporters on the one hand and left and center supporters on the other.

People are hoping for a future where Israel can exist without constant threats, rather than expecting a harmonious relationship with its neighbors in the near-term."

So, on the left and the center, there is a high level of distrust and suspicion toward Netanyahu and his government. For instance, Netanyahu's apparent reluctance to pursue a deal for returning the hostages in exchange for ending the fighting in Gaza is seen by large parts of the public, even on the right, as resulting from Netanyahu's dependence on far-right, ultranationalist members of his government who refuse any compromise or ceasefire.

Now for a long time, Netanyahu and his ministers argued that only significant military force would lead Hamas to compromise and release the hostages. Now, with military attention and resources shifting to the north, people are asking, where is this massive military force that was supposed to bring the hostages home?

One question we have asked several times since October 7 in our polls is what should be the main goal in Gaza: Dismantling Hamas or bringing back the hostages? And as time goes on, public opinion is increasingly supporting the return of hostages. In our current survey, 62 percent saw bringing the bringing back the hostages as Israel's main goal, while only 29 percent pointed to dismantling Hamas as the primary objective.

RFE/RL: How do ordinary Israelis see the question of the remaining hostages amid the continued protests by the hostages' families?



Yohanani: As I mentioned before, most of the public supports a deal to release the hostages, even if it means ending the war and withdrawing the military forces from Gaza. There's this widespread feeling that we've left the hostages behind, and that's really hitting at our sense of solidarity, which is a deep and fundamental value, I think, in Jewish history in general and in Israel society in particular.

At the same time, the campaign run by the Hostages And Missing Families Forum has become very politicized. Many right-wing supporters see it as weakening Israel. As time goes on, we're seeing more and more harassment of protesters who support bringing the hostages back. There are cases of passersby cursing, even hitting and throwing eggs, at hostages' families. In our latest survey, we asked about the effectiveness of the protests and actions taken by the hostages' families.

Despite most of the public feeling empathetic toward the hostage issue, only less than a third think these actions are actually helping to advance a deal for the hostages' release, while almost 40 percent think they're actually hurting the cause. So, you've got this complex situation where people want the hostages back, but there is disagreement and some backlash about how to make that happen.

RFE/RL: Can you explain the reasons behind the apparent contradiction in views regarding prioritizing a negotiated return of the hostages, or destroying Hamas?

Yohanani: You're right to point out that apparent contradiction. Let me break it down a bit. As I mentioned earlier, a clear majority of the public sees a deal to release the hostages as the main goal. But there is a big gap between political camps on this issue. In the center and left, about 80 percent support the deal for the hostages' release, while the opinions on the right are evenly split. So, for most of the left and center, the fighting in Gaza has run its course. They feel most military objectives have been achieved, and Hamas's military power has been significantly weakened. From their perspective, continuing the fight now only puts the hostages at greater risk.

It's important to know that about half of the right-wing also shares this view of prioritizing the hostages' release, but the other half of those on the far-right thinks dismantling Hamas is more important.

Why? For a couple of reasons.

First, there's a security stance that Hamas must be wiped out and not allowed to recover. There is also a very strong sentiment of revenge, with minimal consideration for the cost, whether it's the lives of the hostages, soldiers, let alone innocent civilians in Gaza. Another significant component openly discussed in religious nationalist circles is the return of Jewish settlement to the Gaza Strip after Israel evacuated Jewish settlements from there in 2005.

RFE/RL: Is there public confidence that Israel will ultimately be able to remove the threat of Hamas and Hezbollah and come out of this conflict with greater prospects for a peaceful and stable near-term future?



Yohanani: Right now, the Israeli public isn't showing a lot of optimism. In our current survey, when we asked people if they're optimistic or pessimistic about Israel's future, we found more pessimists, 48 percent, than optimists, 45 percent.

I also think it's important to note that a peaceful future, as you put it, or peace in general, isn't really a common concept in the current Israeli discourse. I would say the hope of Israelis is that the military actions against Hezbollah and Iran will lead to a situation where Israel's existence isn't in question, and that Israeli military superiority will prevent events like October 7 from happening again. So, it's less about peace in the traditional sense, and more about security and deterrence. People are hoping for a future where Israel can exist without constant threats, rather than expecting a harmonious relationship with its neighbors in the near-term.
Israel stepped up its massive air strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs in its drive to wipe out Hezbollah's capabilities and leadership, even as the world awaits with trepidation the October 7 anniversary of the bloody attack on Israel by Hamas -- which, like Hezbollah, is a U.S.-designated terror group with ties to Iran.

Meanwhile, Tehran said it had lifted all flight restrictions after earlier announcing it was closing Iranian airports as of 9 p.m. on October 6 until 6 a.m. on October 7, citing "operational restrictions," at a time when Israel is weighing options for its response to Iran's recent massive missile strike on its territory.

State media said the restrictions were lifted after ensuring favorable and safe conditions.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on October 6 threatened Iran that it might eventually find itself looking like Beirut or Gaza -- which has also been battered over the past year -- if Tehran attempts to further harm Israel.

"The Iranians did not touch the air force's capabilities. No aircraft were damaged, no squadron was taken out of order," Gallant said in reference to the Iranian missile strike, which caused few injuries and slight damage to two air force bases.

"Whoever thinks that a mere attempt to harm us will deter us from taking action should take a look at [Israels operations] in Gaza and Beirut, where Israel is battling fighters of Hamas, which has been deemed a terrorist organization by the United States and EU.

Israel earlier said conducted a series of targeted strikes on weapons storage facilities and infrastructure sites that belong to Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Hezbollah has been designated by the United States as a terror group, while the European Union has blacklisted its armed wing but not its political unit, which holds seats in the Lebanese parliament.

Lebanon's official National News Agency said Hezbollah's stronghold in the area was hit by more than 30 strikes. A petrol station and a medical supplies warehouse were hit by the air raids.

Video footage showed huge flames and plumes of smoke billowing into the night sky, as residents fled their homes in panic with explosions echoing in the background.

Many observers said the attacks were the strongest yet of Israel's recent air strikes.

"Last night was the most violence of all the previous nights," Hanan Abdullah, a resident of the Burj al-Barajneh area in Beirut's southern suburbs, told Reuters.

"Buildings were shaking around us and at first I thought it was an earthquake. There were dozens of strikes -- we couldn't count them all -- and the sounds were deafening,"

Israel has bombed Beirut suburbs for days, killing Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and possibly his potential successor, Hashem Safieddine.

Security sources have said Safieddine had been out of contact since October 4, after an Israeli air strike near Beiruts international airport that was reported to have targeted him. Hezbollah has not commented on Safieddine.

Israel says Nasrallah was killed in a strike on the group's central command headquarters in Beirut on September 27.

Two senior Iranian security officials told Reuters on October 6 that Ismail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force -- the overseas arm of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) -- also had not been heard from in recent days since traveling to Lebanon.

Senior Hezbollah member Mahmoud Qmati, when asked about Qaani's whereabouts, told Reuters: "I have no information. We are also searching for the truth of this matter.

Statements on October 6 out of the United States -- Tel Aviv's most important ally -- indicated some frustrations with the scope of Israel's military action.

"Military pressure can at times enable diplomacy. Of course, military pressure can also lead to miscalculation. It can lead to unintended consequences," a U.S. State Department spokesperson said in statement.

The spokesperson said Washington supported Israeli actions in going after extremist elements but added that U.S. leaders but did not approve of the targeting of civilian infrastructure.

"Every civilian casualty is one too many," the spokesperson said.

Israel said on October 5 that its forces had killed 440 Hezbollah fighters in ground operations in southern Lebanon and destroyed 2,000 Hezbollah targets. Nine Israeli soldiers had been killed in southern Lebanon so far, the authorities said.

According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, nearly 2,000 people have been killed in Lebanon in the latest conflict, most of them since September 23.

Israel says the attacks on Hezbollah are aimed at enabling the safe return of tens of thousands of citizens to homes in northern Israel, bombarded by the group since last October.

The Israeli forces were on high alert ahead of the first anniversary of an attack on October 7 last year, which sparked the war and was carried out by Hamas.

According to Israel tallies, some 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage in the unprecedented Hamas attack on southern Israel.

Israeli police on October 6 said several people had been injured in a suspected shooting attack in Beersheba, a city in southern Israel. One attacker was killed, the ambulance service said.

Separately, health officials in Hamas-run Gaza reported on October 6 that at least 41,870 Palestinians have been killed in the territory in the yearlong war between Israel and Palestinian militants.

Palestinian officials said that an Israeli strike on a mosque in Gaza early on October 6 killed at least 19 people who were sheltering after being displaced from their homes near the town of Deir al-Bala.

The Israeli military said the strike was targeting militants. The reports could not immediately be confirmed, but the Associated Press said one of its journalists counted the bodies at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital morgue.

AP also reported that hospital records showed that the fatalities from the mosque strike were all men.

Israel said its forces on October 6 surrounded the Jabaliya area of northern Gaza in response to indications that Hamas was rebuilding its operational capabilities in the area.

Israel is also considering a retaliatory strike on Iran, which fired at least 180 ballistic missiles at Israel on October 1.

Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad visited Kharg island on October 6, amid concerns that Israel could target Iran's largest oil terminal there.

"The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps [IRGC] Navy plays an important role in the security of oil and gas facilities," Paknejad was quoted as saying at the facility, from which around 90 percent of Iranian oil exports are shipped.

In Syria, state media and local rights monitors said an Israeli air strike targeted three cars in the city of Homs, although details remained sketchy.

Israeli forces have for years been striking Iran-linked targets in Syria and have intensified such actions since the October 7 attacks.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and AP
Three men have been charged by the Dodge County Attorneys Office with felony sex crimes allegedly committed against children in the past three weeks. A fourth man is accused of strangling and physically assaulting a woman.

One suspect  Eric K. Stork, 46, of Scribner  is charged with suspicion of sexual assault of a child, a Class 1B felony, and suspicion of committing child abuse, intentional but with no injury, a Class 3A felony.

An arrest warrant was issued for Stork on April 3. He was arrested on Wednesday and booked into Saunders County Jail.

According to court filings in Dodge County, the crime Stork is accused of occurred Nov. 15, 2013. He is charged with first-degree sexual assault of a child with sexual penetration.

Dodge County Sheriffs Investigator R.J. Smith said in his report that the crime was reported to authorities on Sept. 9, 2023, almost 10 years after the alleged incident. There was no court date set for Stork as of April 10.

Smith wrote that the girl accused Stork of sexual assault on four occasions when she was 14 years old and he was older than 25 years old. The alleged incidents occurred at a residence in Winslow. The victim went to Omaha-based Project Harmony for counseling before the case was investigated by sheriffs officials.

The Tribune does not identify the alleged victims of sex crimes.

A second suspect is accused of four different charges of sexual assault of a child.

Rick C. Neal, 54, of Fremont was charged with two counts of suspicion of sexual assault of a child in the first degree, a Class 1B felony, and two counts of sexual assault of a child in the third degree, Class 3A felonies.

Neal bonded out of county jail and is awaiting a court date.

According to court filings, county prosecutors allege Neal engaged in the crimes from 2018 to 2023. The alleged victims were two girl under the age of 12 at the time of the suspected incidents.

A police report filed with court documents about the incident stated that two girl informed their mother via a handwritten note that Neal had sexually touched them in the genital area and also that he had the young girls touch his genitals.

No court date was listed for Neal as of April 10.

A third suspect  Pedro Zacarias-Castro, 52, of Fremont  is charged with suspicion of sexual assault of a child in the third degree, a Class 3A felony. An arrest warrant was issued for Zacarias-Castro on Monday, and he is considered to be at large.

In a report filed by Fremont Police Detective Brandon Lorenson, a 14-year-old girl told officials at Methodist Fremont Health that Zacarias-Castro sexually assaulted her six to seven years earlier.

Lorenson also wrote that a relative of the victim said the claims were real and that Zacarias-Castro was alleged to have paid the teen girl up to $800 in gift cards.

Police officials attempted to contact Zacarias-Castro, but Lorenson said people who knew the suspect told investigators his whereabouts are unknown.

The fourth suspect is Ernesto D. Morales Velasquez, 29, of Fremont. He is charged with assault by strangulation or suffocation, a Class 3A felony; as well as domestic violence assault in the third degree, a Class 1 misdemeanor.

According to court records, prosecutors allege Morales Velasquez attacked a 25-year-old woman inside a residence in Fremont. Police were called to the home, and Officer J.C. Lopez stated in a report that he found the alleged victim cowering inside a closet.

Lopez wrote that the victim told officers that Morales Velasquez was intoxicated and argued with her, after which Morales Velasquez allegedly tried to strangle her and inflicted other wounds.

The woman told police she was able to fight off the alleged attack, then hid in the closet. Police arrested Morales Velasquez that night, and he was booked into Saunders County Jail. He is scheduled to be arraigned at 1 p.m. on April 16.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin used a meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Masud Pezeshkian, to cement their growing bilateral ties that have raised concern in the West as war rages in Ukraine and the Middle East.

The two leaders met in Ashgabat on the sidelines of a conference in the capital of the tightly controlled Central Asian country of Turkmenistan on October 11. It was the first of two meetings between the men, with another scheduled at the BRICS summit in the Russian city of Kazan that runs on October 22-24.

It was the first of two meetings between the two, with another scheduled at the BRICS summit in the Russian city of Kazan that runs on October 22-24.



Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters ahead of the meeting that while the talks will focus on bilateral relations, "the situation in the Middle East definitely will not be ignored and will also be on the agenda."



The meeting was the first between the two since Pezeshkian assumed office on July 30 after winning an election to succeed his hard-line predecessor, Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May.

Relations between Moscow and Tehran have strengthened since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

"Pezeshkian is trying to gauge to what extent Iran can rely on Russia for help," Touraj Atabaki, professor emeritus of Middle East and Central Asia social history at Leiden University in the Netherlands, told Radio Farda.

"Russia wants to stand with Iran due to Iran's support in its war on Ukraine but Moscow doesn't want to darken its relationship with Israel further and cut all ties," he added.

Since the early months of the Ukraine war, Russia has been accused of using Iranian-made Shahed and Mohajer-6 drones, many of which have been found after being shot down over Ukrainian cities and battlefields.



Iran initially denied arming Russia before relenting and admitting that it had supplied a "limited number of drones" to Moscow before the war.



Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, Tehran continues to deny that its drones are being used by Russia against Ukraine. That has not stopped the United States and the European Union from imposing sanctions on Iran for helping Moscow.



Last month, the EU said it had "credible" information provided by allies suggesting that Iran has supplied short-range ballistic missiles to Russia to help Moscow wage war in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, tensions in the Middle East have been heightened since Tehran launched some 200 missiles at Israel on October 1, saying the attack was in response to the killing of Tehran-backed militant leaders and a general from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.



Israel has vowed to launch a "deadly, precise, and surprising" attack on Iran in retaliation, while it continues to pound targets in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip that it says are aimed at Iran-backed proxies.

At least 30 Palestinians were killed and dozens wounded on October 11 by Israeli strikes in Jabalia in northern Gaza, according to the territory's civil-defense agency.



The recent spiral of violence was sparked by the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas that killed around 1,200 people and saw some 250 taken hostage. Hamas has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.



The fighting in Gaza prompted another Iran-backed group, Hezbollah, to fire missiles into Israel in support of Hamas. Hezbollah is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, while the EU blacklists its armed wing but not its political party.



The Israeli military has launched massive air strikes on Beirut and southern Lebanon in response, as well as a ground incursion into southern Lebanon intended to destroy the Iran-allied militant group, whose political party has seats in the Lebanese parliament.

Israel faced condemnation on October 11 after its forces fired at what it said was a threat near a UN peacekeeping position in Lebanon. Israeli soldiers had responded to "an immediate threat" around 50 meters from the UNIFIL post, the military said.

"An initial examination indicates that during the incident, a hit was identified on a UNIFIL post...resulting in the injury of two UNIFIL personnel," the statement added. The army pledged to carry out a "thorough review."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the firing as "intolerable" and "a violation of international humanitarian law," while the British government said it was "appalled" by reports of the injuries.

U.S. President Joe Biden said he was "absolutely" asking Israel to stop firing at UN peacekeepers, while the French, Spanish, and Italian leaders issued a joint statement expressing "outrage."

French President Emmanuel Macron renewed his call for an end to exports of weapons used by Israel in Gaza and Lebanon, while saying the UN peacekeepers had been "deliberately targeted."

In Iran, more than three dozen hard-line lawmakers on October 10 demanded the government revise its nuclear doctrine to pursue atomic weapons.



In a letter to the Supreme National Security Council, they said Western powers could not control Israel, thus making nuclear weapons "Iran's option to create deterrence."



Iran has been hit with waves of crippling economic sanctions for its nuclear program, which has seen a sharp increase in its uranium enrichment capacity after the United States under former President Donald Trump withdrew from a 2015 landmark deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action that restricted Tehran's nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions.



Iran says its nuclear program is for peaceful civilian purposes, but government officials caused alarm recently by saying it could change its "nuclear doctrine" if it is attacked or its existence is threatened by Israel.

With reporting by Reuters and AFP
Dozens of Israelis were injured, several critically, when a "swarm" of Hezbollah drones hit the northern Israeli town of Binyamina in one of the bloodiest attacks on the country since October 2023.

Hezbollah is an armed group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon.

CNN reported that the United Hatzalah rescue service said it had "provided assistance to over 60 wounded people in various conditions -- some of them in critical, serious, moderate, and light condition."

National emergency service Magen David Adom (AFMDA) said at least 67 people were injured, four with life-threatening injuries, in the attack some 60 kilometers north of Tel Aviv in the Haifa district.

Hezbollah -- which is considered a terrorist group by the United States, although the EU has only blacklisted its armed wing -- claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it had launched a "swarm of attack drones" at Israel's Golani military training camp in Binyamina.

The Israeli military did not provide specifics about the affected site. Iran-allied Hezbollah has fired hundreds of rockets and drones into Israel, although most have been shot down or caused little damage and few casualties.

Earlier in the day, angry UN peacekeepers had said Israeli forces had smashed into a gate of one of their bases in Lebanon, causing about 15 minor injuries.

"At around 4:30 a.m., while peacekeepers were in shelters, two IDF Merkava tanks destroyed the position's main gate and forcibly entered the position in the Ramia area," said the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), adding that the Israeli forces left after about 45 minutes.

Israel later claimed that the tanks had come under fire when they crashed into the base gate.

The action came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said UN peacekeepers must "immediately" pull out of the combat zone in southern Lebanon and directly addressed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"The time has come for you to withdraw UNIFIL from Hezbollah strongholds and from the combat zones," Netanyahu said, accusing Guterres of making UNIFIL soldiers "human shields" and "hostages of Hezbollah."

"Mr. Secretary-General, get the UNIFIL forces out of harm's way. It should be done right now, immediately," he said.

UNIFIL is a 9,500-strong mission created in 1978 tasked with monitoring a cease-fire that ended a 33-day war in 2006 between Israel and Hezbollah.

Forty nations that contribute to UNIFIL said in a joint statement on October 12 that they "strongly condemn recent attacks" on the peacekeepers. The United States and European leaders have demanded Israel stop firing at the peacekeepers, with U.S. President Joe Biden on October 12 saying he was "absolutely, positively" telling Israel to stop.

Fears of an all-out regional war grew as signs indicated Israel could be preparing to launch a direct strike on Iran in retaliation for Tehran's massive missile strike on Israel on October 1.

Biden on October 13 said he had ordered the Pentagon to send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and troops to Israel as part of U.S. efforts "to defend Israel."

Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder said the system will help bolster Israel's air defenses following Iran's missile attacks. The THAADs are similar to Patriot missile systems but can cover wider areas, analysts say.

"It is part of the broader adjustments the U.S. military has made in recent months, to support the defense of Israel and protect Americans from attacks by Iran and Iranian-aligned militias," Ryder said.

The French presidency on October 13 said President Emmanuel Macron, in a phone call, told counterpart Masud Pezeshkian it was Tehran's "responsibility" to back efforts to lower tensions in the Middle East. The Iranian presidency also reported the call, saying the sides discuss ways to end the conflict but also using heavily belligerent language toward Israel.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on October 13 said Tehran was prepared for a "war situation," although he stated his government desired peace.



"We are fully prepared for a war situation. We are not afraid of war, but we do not want war, we want peace and we will work for a just peace in Gaza and Lebanon," he said while on a visit to the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.



Israeli warplanes hit a 100-year-old mosque in a village of Lebanon near the border early on October 13, a day after a marketplace was hit in the southern city of Nabatiyeh, according to Lebanon's official National News Agency.



Lebanon's Health Ministry reported deadly strikes in other areas of the country, including one on a Shi'ite Muslim village in a mostly Christian mountainous area.



Hezbollah said it launched rockets at Israeli forces inside Lebanese territory on October 13 as ground troops conducted incursions into the country's south.

A Hezbollah statement claimed it targeted a "gathering" of Israeli forces in the village of Maroun al-Ras "with artillery shells."

Hezbollah fired hundreds of projectiles from Lebanon into Israel on October 12 as Israelis celebrated Yom Kippur, an important holiday on the Jewish religious calendar.



The escalation comes as Israel is also conducting fresh attacks in Gaza and is expected to strike Iran in retaliation for a missile attack earlier this month.



Palestinian medical officials said on October 13 that an Israeli strike killed a family of eight and wounded seven others in the central Gaza Strip.



The attack late on October 12 hit a home in the Nuseirat refugee camp, killing a couple and their six children, who ranged in age from 8 to 23, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where the bodies were taken.



Israel continues to strike what it says are militant targets in Gaza nearly every day for more than a year into the war with Hamas, which is designated a terrorist group by the United States and European Union.

The Israeli Army said in a statement on October 13 that forces operating throughout the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours had attacked about 40 targets and killed dozens of militants.

Both Hamas and Hezbollah are allies of Iran. Israel has repeatedly said it will respond to Iran's missile attack on October 1, which Tehran said was launched in retaliation for Israel's military operations in Gaza and Lebanon and the killings of a string of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.



Washington believes Israel has narrowed down targets in its potential response to military and energy infrastructure, NBC reported on October 12, citing unnamed U.S. officials.



There is no indication that Israel will target Irans nuclear facilities or carry out assassinations, the NBC report said, adding that Israel has not made final decisions about how and when to act.



Araghchi said there would be "no red line" for Iran in defending its citizens from the potential strikes.



"While we have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region, I say it clearly that we have no red lines in defending our people and interests," Araghchi wrote in a post on X on October 13.



Araghchi's trip to Baghdad is part a regional tour that saw Iran's top diplomat visiting Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with Oman scheduled to be his next stop.



Qatar has for months been hosting and mediating talks aimed at a Gaza cease-fire, and it has called for a truce in Lebanon.

The Pentagon on October 13 confirmed that the United States will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and troops to Israel as tensions there mount.

Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder said the system will help bolster Israel's air defenses following Iran's missile attacks. The THAADs are similar to Patriot missile systems but can cover wider areas, analysts say.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and AP
The column of Russian armored vehicles carefully approached Chasiv Yar from the east, threading its way along dirt roads, skirting patches of forest, and avoiding Ukrainian-laid minefields while dodging incoming drones and artillery.

The April 4 assault on the Donetsk region city was repelled, according to Ukrainian commanders, open-source intelligence, and reports from soldiers on the ground. But more troublingly for Ukraines beleaguered frontline troops was what the grainy black-and-white drone video released by Ukraines 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade showed: a potential weakness in Ukraine's defense, hastily built in some cases, and smarter tactics by Russian forces than earlier in the invasion.

Chasiv Yar is slowly being wiped from the map as Russian jets drop heavy guided bombs that flatten apartment blocks and elite airborne assault units edge into the city's eastern outskirts.

There is never enough ammunition. If our allies continue to delay the supply of ammunition, we will have to choose between holding territory and [saving] the lives of our soldiers.

Ukrainian forces are exhausted, starved for artillery shells, desperate for reinforcements and rotations, struggling to hold back Russias offensive in several locations across the 1,200-kilometer front line. After the loss of the bigger city of Avdiyivka in February, Chasiv Yar is the next crucible, for Ukraine's troops and for the West's will to arm and support them.

"The battle for Chasiv Yar...is a litmus test for both sides," according to Frontelligence Insight, a Ukrainian open-source research organization run by a Ukrainian reserve officer that analyzed the 64th Brigade drone video. "If Ukraine were to lose control of Chasiv Yar, it could have dire consequences as it would provide a direct route for the Russian Army to advance towards key cities in the Donbas, such as Kostyantynivka and Kramatorsk."

Chasiv Yar "is one of the hottest spots on the front line," said Oleksiy Melnyk, a retired Ukrainian Air Force officer and former pilot, as Russia moves closer to the goal of occupying the entirety of the two eastern Ukrainian regions that make up the Donbas: Donetsk and Luhansk.

"That's why its where the most intensive fighting is nowadays, and I assume that in the next weeks, there will be even bigger-scale attempts to capture Chasiv Yar," Melnyk, now a researcher at the Razumkov Center, a Kyiv think tank, told RFE/RL.

The situation on the front line is "extremely critical, possibly turning catastrophic," one Ukrainian special-forces senior sergeant, who asked to be identified only by his call sign, Frenchman, told RFE/RL.

A Faltered Counteroffensive

Last summer, Ukraine pinned its hopes for a decisive shift on the battlefield on a major counteroffensive, armed by Western weaponry and bolstered by nine newly formed, NATO-trained brigades.

The effort faltered by late fall, however. Ukrainian soldiers ran into  buzz saw of extensively prepared Russian defenses: trenches, tank traps, "dragon's teeth," and minefields, collectively known as Surovikin Lines, after the Russian general who ordered them. An ambitious effort to establish a bridgehead on the Dnieper's eastern bank, break though Russia's defenses in the south, and draw its troops away from other locations sputtered.

Russian commanders, meanwhile, redoubled their effort to capture Avdiyivka, an industrial city on the cusp of the regional administrative city of Donetsk. Despite heavy initial losses of tanks and armor, Russian forces utilized "meat grinder" assaults by prison-inmate infantry units, along with extensive use of glide bombs -- air-dropped, high-explosive munitions outfitted with satellite guidance systems and pop-out wings -- and captured the city on February 17.

The loss was a blow for Ukraine -- and highlighted problems with its tactics, equipment, and strategy for personnel.

Experts criticized civilian and military leaders for not prioritizing the construction of defenses, like the Russians had.

Grumbling from Ukrainian commanders about the need for more soldiers grew louder. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy replaced the country's commander in chief, General Valeriy Zaluzhniy, in early February, in part because of Zaluzhniy's public comments that the government needed to find more soldiers.

After months of wrangling, Ukraines parliament this week passed legislation that formalized a new system for mobilizing personnel, aiming to replenish the countrys exhausted forces.

Ukraine has disclosed little about the extent of its casualties since Russia launched its mass invasion in February 2022. This past February, Zelenskiy made his first official acknowledgment of the country's combat losses, saying 31,000 troops had been killed in the previous two years. U.S. officials said in August that the total number of dead and wounded on both sides was roughly 500,000 -- a figure that has climbed since.

Russia is estimated to have suffered as many as 350,000 dead and wounded, according to Western officials.

We are at a critical juncture on the ground that is beginning to be able to impact not only morale of the Ukrainians that are fighting, but also their ability to fight.

"I don't remember a day when we did not have work at our triage unit," Volodymyr, a senior lieutenant and medic with the 10th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade, deployed in the Donetsk region, said by telephone. He asked not to give his surname.

"The situation is more controlled than in 2022, but people are dying every day," he said. "We lack the life-saving equipment to quickly and safely evacuate people from the front line, such as armored vehicles and unmanned platforms."

Undermanned, Outgunned

Located on higher ground relative to surrounding areas, Chasiv Yar is seen as a key stepping stone to Kostyantynivka, a town to the south where a major rail line is located. Russian capture of that site would put pressure on two bigger cities to the north: Kramatorsk and Slovyansk.

It's not just a lack of soldiers that Ukraine is struggling with. Commanders are grappling with a severe shortage of weaponry -- everything from rifle ammunition to artillery shells. The shortages are overwhelmingly due to the inability of Ukraine's largest supplier, the United States, to agree to fund and ship new tranches of weapons.

"Ammunition is our sore spot. We have constant shortages," one Ukrainian soldier deployed near Avdiyivka who asked to be identified by his call sign, Odin, said in an interview with Current Time. "For example, last spring in this area, the situation with ammunition was much better. We probably fired six or seven times more rounds then. We are very dependent on the political situation, and very dependent on aid."

WATCH: With exclusive coverage from frontline hot spots, RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service and Current Time journalists speak with outgunned Ukrainian soldiers as Moscow continues its efforts to overwhelm the country's defenses.

Ukrainian troops report having to ration artillery shells, with Russian forces currently firing five times as many shells. U.S. Army General Chris Cavoli, the head of U.S. European Command, told lawmakers this week that that number would go up to 10-to-1 "in a matter of weeks."

"We're not talking about months. We're not talking hypothetically," he said.

Despite strong backing from the White House and both Democrats and most Republicans in Congress, a new $60 billion package of new weaponry has been bogged down by a small group of Republicans who are conditioning its passage on major reforms to U.S. immigration and border policies.

"There is never enough ammunition," said Lieutenant Serhiy Skibchyk, a press officer from the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade, deployed near Robotyne, in the southern Zaporizhzhya region. "If our allies continue to delay the supply of ammunition, we will have to choose between holding territory and [saving] the lives of our soldiers."

Zelenskiy made another public appeal for U.S. elected officials to approve the aid package on April 7, arguing that a Ukrainian defeat would lead to threats, or outright attacks, on other European nations.

"It is necessary to specifically tell Congress that if Congress does not help Ukraine, Ukraine will lose the war," he said during a meeting of an international fund-raising campaign called United24.

"If Ukraine loses the war, other states will be attacked," he said.

'Critical Juncture'

Ukrainian officials have also pleaded for anti-aircraft missiles, in particular those used in the U.S.-manufactured Patriot system, which are seen as effective against Russia's hypersonic ballistic and cruise missiles. At least two systems have been deployed, limiting their ability to defend crucial targets; Zelenskiy has asked for 25 to be supplied.

"We are at a critical juncture on the ground that is beginning to be able to impact not only morale of the Ukrainians that are fighting, but also their ability to fight," Representative Mike Turner, the Republican chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, told CBS News. "[Russian President Vladimir] Putin knows this. This is obviously an area where we cannot allow Putin to win. Our European allies are saying that Putin's goal is a war beyond Ukraine with Europe. We need to stop him in Ukraine."

Ukraine may get a small reprieve, in the form of artillery shipments spearheaded by the Czech Republic, which rallied a group of nations to purchase shells from other countries. The current head of Ukraine's forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskiy, said the country was also ramping up its ability to repair howitzers within Ukraine.

"The only advantage that Ukrainian forces have, which helps to mitigate this significant disproportion, is the quality of the Western weapons; not just guns, or artillery itself, but other systems that allow Ukraine to reach the same effect using less in number," Melnyk, the former air force pilot, told RFE/RL.

Still, Ukrainian and Western officials warn that Russia may be gearing up for a new offensive in the coming months. Russian commanders have been able to continue recruiting men, relying on high wages and other lucrative compensation.

Last month, the commander of Ukraine's ground forces said Russia was prepared to deploy up to 100,000 troops by the summer, and fears have mounted that Ukraines second-largest city, Kharkiv, could be a primary objective.

"It will not necessarily be an offensive; perhaps they will replenish their units that lost combat capability. But there is a possibility that at the beginning of the summer they may have certain forces to conduct offensive operations," Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavlyuk said on Ukrainian television.

Aleksander Palikot contributed to this report from Kyiv


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Stories from County Roscommon about locals who perished and survived on the Titanic will feature on RTEs Nationwide this evening (Friday).

The popular programme will visit Roscommon and Cork to hear stories about Irish people who were on board the ill-fated ship 112 years ago.

This weekend, Cobh and Belfast are preparing for events to mark the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic on April 14th, 1912, which claimed 1,500 lives.

The programme airs on RTE One television at 7 p.m..
Major airlines in the United States, along with its various unions, urged the Biden Administration to pause additional passenger flights between the country and China, citing anti-competitive policies of the Chinese government.

Following the news, most of China-based airlines were trading lower on Friday. Air China Ltd shares fell 2.9 percent, while China Eastern Airlines Corp. Ltd. dropped 2.5 percent, and China Southern Airlines Co. Ltd. fell 1.8 percent.

In a joint letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg on behalf of the U.S. aviation industry, the airlines and unions asked them not to approve any more flights until U.S. workers and businesses are guaranteed equality of access in the marketplace, free from the existing harmful Chinese policies.

The airlines and unions were represented by Airlines for America or A4A, which includes all major U.S. airlines and certain associate member airlines like UPS and FedEx, as well as The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA or AFA, Air Line Pilots Association or ALPA, and Allied Pilots Association or APA.

As per the letter, China unilaterally suspended the bilateral air services deal with U.S. at the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and effectively closed its market to U.S. Carriers.

The airlines noted that the Chinese implemented strict limits on market access during the pandemic era, and imposed challenging rules effecting operations, customers and the treatment of US airline crew.

Noting that the competitive disadvantage is harmful to around 315,000 workers employed by U.S. passenger airlines that serve China, the companies and uniouns indicate that there is a clear need for the U.S. government to establish a policy that protects U.S. aviation workers, industry and air travelers.

According to them, the anti-competitive relationship between the two countries is highlighted by the advantage Chinese airlines receive by continuing to access Russian airspace, while U.S. carriers stopped flying through Russian airspace at the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in March 2022.

"If the growth of the Chinese aviation market is allowed to continue unchecked and without concern for equality of access in the market, flights will continue to be relinquished to Chinese carriers at the expense of U.S. workers and businesses," the letter noted.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Most of the visual aspects of Creta EV across exteriors and interiors appear to be the same as the ICE-based model

In the electric segment, Hyundai currently offers the Kona EV and Ioniq 5. For the mass market, Hyundai is readying the Creta EV. It will be the most affordable Hyundai electric car in India at the time of launch. Creta Electric will take on rivals such as MG ZS EV and upcoming Maruti eVX and Tata Curvv EV.

Creta Electric interiors revealed

Much of the interior spaces, centre console, dashboard and other plastic parts appear to be the same as that of ICE Creta. However, one can see an entirely new steering wheel that is a lot more elegant in comparison to the unit in use with ICE Creta. The new steering wheel onboard Creta EV does not have the H logo. The central area is more rounded and has a circular chrome trim, along with a horizontal chrome strip in the centre.

Hyundai EVs like Ioniq 5 dont have any brand badging on the steering wheel. A similar approach could be used for Creta Electric. Another thing revealed is the drive selector located behind the steering wheel on the right side.

This again is something similar to Ioniq 5. Steering mounted controls can be seen as well. Other key features include the seamlessly integrated infotainment and instrument cluster screen. Its the same unit as used with ICE Creta. Interior spy shots are credited to Pilot on Wheels.

Creta EV  Equipment list

Most of the features for Creta Electric will be borrowed from ICE Creta. Some of the key highlights include dual-tone interiors, leather pack for top trims and power adjustable driver seat.

Creta EV will have ventilated seats, wireless charger, cruise control, rear AC vents, USB charger and glove box cooling. Other highlights include premium sound system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice commands and OTA updates. A range of connectivity features will be available via Hyundai Bluelink connected car technology.

Safety kit will also be similar to ICE Creta. Some key features include ADAS, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, tyre pressure monitoring system, rear parking sensors and camera, front parking sensors and burglar alarm.

What is the range of Creta Electric?

Details about Creta EVs powertrain are not available at this point of time. However, as per industry standards, Creta EV could deliver a range of more than 400 km. It is expected to get multi-level regenerative braking, as seen with other Hyundai electric cars. Features like vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) are also likely. Both AC and DC fast charging options will be available with Creta EV.

To get the early bird advantage, Hyundai will be looking to introduce Creta EV in the shortest possible time. The electric SUV could be launched later this year or sometime next year. Creta Electric could be offered at a starting price of around Rs 20 lakh.

Source
Cumberland County had some of the unhealthiest air in the United States last year, according to a report by international airborne pollutant monitor IQAir.

Five sensors in communities around the county showed average annual levels of a harmful pollutant called PM2.5 to be nearly three times higher than is safe.

Air quality in Schlusser and Camp Hill, for example, ranked in the bottom 2% nationwide as wildfire smoke mainly from Canada blanketed the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest. On top of that, however, the Cumberland Valleys topography, industry and interstate highways also further poor conditions.

Its often bad air quality around here, said Tim Hawkins, a geography and earth science professor at Shippensburg University.

Of the 2,932 places IQAir monitored in the U.S. last year, Camp Hill had the 41st-worst air quality. Its average reading of PM2.5 particles per cubic meter of air was 14.1. Schlusser, with an average PM2.5 reading of 14, had the nations 46th-worst air quality.

The World Health Organization says a safe average annual PM2.5 reading is between 0 and 5.

Pollution was more common in the summer and fall when wildfires from the western U.S. and dense forests of Canada billowed smoke that caught the jet stream and swept over the continent.

Anything that the fire burns gets put up into the air and then ultimately travels downstream of wherever the wind happens to be carrying it, said John Bowen, a National Weather Service meteorologist in State College. In a lot of instances, that ends up being central Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic and New England area.

Carlisle and Shippensburg (both with PM2.5 readings of 12.4) had the 191st-worst and 193rd-worst air quality last year, respectively, putting them in the bottom 6% nationally. Mechanicsburg (11.9) was 285th-worst, still in the bottom 10%.

A slow-moving threat

PM2.5 is particulate matter measuring 2.5 millionths of a meter or smaller. This pollutant comprises solids and liquids in the atmosphere like smoke, dust and pollen.

Nose hair and saliva cant easily stop PM2.5, so it can be dangerous when breathed into the lungs or when it enters the bloodstream. Beyond the coughing and eye irritation that come within minutes, fine particle pollution exacerbates allergies and heart and lung conditions like high blood pressure and asthma.

People that have existing conditions, theyre the ones that are targeted when those air quality warnings go out," Hawkins said.

Fine particle pollution is most dangerous to vulnerable people like seniors and children, the latter of whom could potentially see their chances of getting asthma increase, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

If exposed to PM2.5 long enough, like when living next to a factory or wildfire-heavy area, your risk of premature mortality rises as youre more likely to get lung disease or cancer.

In other words, people get killed by breathing fine particle pollution, said Kevin Stewart, environmental health director at the American Lung Association and a longtime resident of Lancaster County.

According to the associations research, air pollution can also increase the possibility of neurological problems and raise a fetuss risk of death, preterm birth or low birth weight, he said.

I think the reason it doesnt get a lot of immediate attention is because youre not going to drop dead from a bad air quality day, Hawkins said of fine particle pollution. But long-term exposure does take its toll in terms of hours to days to years.

On days with air quality warnings, experts say stay indoors or at least limit exposure. In the home, air purifiers and filters are helpful, as are durable face coverings like N95 masks when outside.

Dont exercise outside, and keep kids inside, Stewart said. Other ways to help the overall problem of air pollution include maintaining vehicles properly and not burning wood and trash, he said.

Using less electricity is another small contribution, Stewart said, because the power grid runs mostly on carbon-burning fossil fuel sources. In the same vein, carpooling, telecommuting and use of electric vehicles also help.

Its worthwhile for folks to understand that we all have a role to play, Stewart said, both in what we do in our daily lives as well as what we do in our workplaces and our transportation choices.

Location, location, location

Pennsylvania sits in an unfortunate location. Its downwind of Canadian and West Coast wildfires, its heavily industrial, and it has many valleys that trap air pollution.

Coraopolis, a small riverside suburb of Pittsburgh, had the worst air quality in the nation last year, averaging 19.3 particles of PM2.5 per cubic meter of air.

Among 103 Pennsylvania stations, Camp Hill and Schlusser had the seventh- and eighth-worst air quality, respectively. Carlisle was 28th-worst, Shippensburg 30th-worst and Mechanicsburg 41st-worst.

Pocono Lake, at 8.1 particles of PM2.5 per cubic meter of air, had the best air quality in the state. But that was still higher than the U.S. median air quality, 7.9.

The Carlisle-Harrisburg metro area is often some of the poorer air quality in the country, Hawkins said.

The mountain ridges that create the Cumberland Valley trap dirty air from all sources. They include vehicle emissions from Interstates 76 and 81, which run right through the valley, plus emissions from Cumberland Countys growing industrial presence.

Eastward winds bring western wildfire smoke, but northward winds also bring air pollution from the Baltimore-Washington area, Stewart said. Dust, ammonia and fossil fuel burning from agricultural work in Cumberland County can add to dirty air, too.

It has been something that weve observed over time, that air pollution has been a problem in south-central Pennsylvania, Stewart said. Sometimes people are surprised by that, because they think, Well its not one of those big cities like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh or Washington, D.C.

Expect more dangerous days

Most of Pennsylvania sees 2-4 weeks of smoky days per year, according to a nationwide analysis by researchers at Stanford University and journalists at Californias public radio stations.

They examined satellite data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and found more western wildfire smoke hanging over Cumberland County and the rest of America compared to a decade ago.

Carlisle, for example, averaged 24 smoke days per year in 2016-2020, compared to 15 days per year in 2009-2013.

Theres a pretty strong correlation between a warming climate and air quality, Hawkins said.

Canadas record-breaking fire season last year can be partly attributed to climate change, researchers with the World Weather Attribution initiative concluded. Warmer and dryer conditions made forests more flammable, they found.

Eastern Canadas likelihood of experiencing high-fire-risk conditions was at least double last year what it would be in a world without human-caused climate change, the researchers said. That probability will increase as more heat-trapping carbon gases are emitted.

Although some of Canadas worst fires in 2023 were ignited by lightning, Bowen, from the National Weather Service, said its tough to predict when and where new fires will start. Most are caused accidentally by people.

One helpful clue is fire weather: hot, dry and windy conditions. In the western U.S., the number of days with these conditions are increasing, which means wildfire seasons are lengthening, intensifying and producing more smoke.

The Southwest specifically is seeing 37 more fire weather days a year than it did 50 years ago, according to research group Climate Central.

The resulting poor air quality is a very immediate effect of that," Hawkins said.
Outdoor enthusiasts, including bicyclists and walkers, have long imagined riding or trekking all the way from New Buffalo to Chicago.



A decade in the making, Michigans segment of that long-envisioned 60-mile pathway, Marquette Greenway, is now underway and  at least a stretch  may be ready for the public by September. A groundbreaking was held at the future New Buffalo trailhead earlier this month.



Oh my gosh, it's been 10 years  we've been working on our Michigan segment for 10 years, says Marcy Hamilton, deputy director/senior planner of the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission. We've overcome a lot of obstacles along the way. So, it was really exciting to have a great turnout for the groundbreaking celebrating this occasion.



It's been a lot of hard work and dedication from a lot of different partners and community members to make it happen, she adds. So, it's pretty incredible. We're really excited.



Whats happening: A groundbreaking was held this month at the trailhead for the first phase of the three-mile segment of the Marquette Greenway in New Buffalo. The trailhead will include parking, a picnic area, and bike repair station. Engineering is underway for the second phase  a one mile stretch  that will extend the trail to the Indiana state line.



Residents of Michigan, Indiana and Illinois have long hoped for a non-motorized, uninterrupted trail connecting the three states and accessible to lakefront amenities. The Marquette Greenway will follow along the Lake Michigan shoreline from downtown New Buffalo to Calumet Park in Chicago.



The Marquette Greenway Trail was first introduced in 2005 and was established as a priority by the Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission in 2009 and again in 2017. The tri-state trail will include a segment through Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park and will eventually span five counties, 15 municipalities, and will connect almost 200,000 people living within 1.5 miles of the trail along the southern shore of Lake Michigan.



Hamilton says different segments of the trail are in stages of completion, with some obstacles  where the trail leads over bridges, for instance  still being hashed out.



The longest stretch of the trail goes through Indiana  so far, 25 miles of the trail through Indiana and Illinois have been completed. One Indiana segment connecting to the Michigan state line is under construction.



We hoped we were on track to get it all done in 2027, she says, but it may take a couple of more years than that.



Whos paying for this: The cost of phase one of the Michigan portion is about $5.6 million. Of that, $75,000 for design and engineering was funded by a Rural Business Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Additional funders include: the Pokagon Fund, a local foundation that receives funding from a casino in New Buffalo Township; the Michigan Department of Transportations transportation alternatives program, which contributed $2.7 million; the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, contributing more than $400,000; New Buffalo Township and the city of New Buffalo; and Friends of Berrien County Trails.



Friends of Berrien County Trails, Hamilton says, did a big fundraising effort and raised more than $400,000 from over 200 individuals and private and family foundations.



Whats next: New Buffalos trailhead will begin construction this season with grading and paving work. Hamilton says that segment should be ready to use by September. Then we're hoping to have a ribbon-cutting celebration when that happens, she says, and do a ride on the trail. Kalin Construction is the contractor and Abonmarche is the engineering firm overseeing Phase 1 construction.



The second phase in Michigan will continue the 10-foot-wide paved path along Grand Beach Road to the Indiana-Michigan state line and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.



What people are saying: Gary Wood, president of Friends of Berrien County Trails, a citizen-based nonprofit seeking to connect Berrien County to a network of trails, says the group will continue to work to connect the Marquette Greenway up the Lake Michigan coastline and one day hope to connect to the Mackinac Bridge.



U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan Brandon Fewins says: In addition to essential infrastructure, USDA is also helping to create opportunities for rural recreation. The scope of this project, its many partners and the coordination between them are an example of the great things we can accomplish together.



Rosemary Parker has worked as a writer and editor for more than 40 years. She is a regular contributor to Rural Innovation Exchange, UPword and other Issue Media Group publications.
Mihai Aperghis (@mihaiaperghis), an SEO we reference here from time to time, is also a Google Product Expert and attended the Google Search Central Unconference the other week. He has written this blog post and I am posting it here as a super rare guest post on this site. Why? (1) Mihai rocks and (2) this site is about community and Product Experts are the essence of the Google community. I (Barry) personally was unable to attend due to a conflict. Note: Mihai did not ask for a link or a mention, but I added this so it is clear that he wrote this.

Last week marked the first-ever official Google SEO-focused event in Romania  Search Central Live Romania  on a sunny 4th of April in Bucharest. As a Search Central Product Expert who lives in Bucharest, the event made for an exciting occasion for people from my local SEO community to listen to and interact directly with Googlers.

John Mueller and Martin Splitt expertly shared much SEO knowledge in most of the event's sessions. Additionally, several other Googlers provided insights within sessions focused more on publisher-related topics, such as elections, misinformation, and changes to third-party cookies.

As with other Search Central Live events, this was a free invitation-based occasion for SEO professionals, digital marketers, and publishers to gain deeper insights and interact directly with Googlers themselves, with close to 100 people attending.

Agenda

The official agenda included 8 SEO/Search-focused sessions covering introductory to slightly more intermediate subjects (including a highly enjoyable Q&A) and three other sessions surrounding other topics, focusing heavily on the upcoming election season.

Throughout the day, there were several breaks for grabbing lunch, a snack, or a coffee while also providing opportunities for networking and engaging in a quick chat with John, Martin, or anyone else from the Google team present at the event:

10:00 AM: Registration and networking

11:00 AM: Opening

11:10 AM: Welcome

11:20 AM: How Search works

11:40 AM: What's new in Search

12:00 PM: Search and AI

12:20 PM: Analysing traffic drops

1:00 PM: Lunch & networking

2:00 PM: Mythbusting

2:30 PM: SEO for videos & images

2:50 PM: Best practices for e-commerce

3:10 PM: Search Q&A

3:30 PM: Coffee break

4:00 PM: Misinformation / Elections

5:30 PM: Ad Manager - prepare for the end of third party cookies

5:45 PM: Elections, Misinformation, 3P Cookies Q&A

6:00 PM: Closing & picture

6:10 PM: Networking

Session Highlights

While I didn't manage to attend every session, I did so with most of them, especially those presented by John and Martin. One of the first sessions that comes to mind is "Search and AI", where Martin covered some of the basics of what the opportunities and limitations of LLMs are, both in general as well as with a focus on Gemini and Google Search:

John's best practices were very well received within the very next session on "Analysing traffic drops," highlighting the use of Search Console and various scenarios that might impact organic rankings and traffic:

Lastly, one of the most awaited sessions was the Q&A session, with questions provided by the live audience and from a pre-submitted set. Some of the questions even generated quite a few laughs from everyone in the room:

All in all, this was a great experience, made possible by the fantastic support of Romanian Googlers such as Elisabeta Moraru and Teodora Patrauceanu. I hope John and Martin also had a great time and are considering returning soon  everyone who participated, as well as those who couldn't attend, is really looking forward to another such event.

Until next time!

Forum discussion at X.
Electronics giant Samsung will unveil a $44.0bn White House programme aimed at bringing semiconductor production back to America as soon as next week, with the memory chip maker in line to secure up to $6.0bn in government grants.

Samsung intends to provide further details on the project in Taylor, Texas, alongside US commerce secretary Gina Raimondo, according to Bloomberg.

The South Korean company has locked in more than $6.0bn of government grants, however the timing and details of the announcement were still said to be in flux ahead of the announcement, Bloomberg sources said.

The broader programme also reflects an effort by the Biden administration to counter the technological rise of China, which has been ramping up its own domestic semiconductor industry.

The 2022 Chips and Science Act, which set aside $39.0bn in grants plus $75.0bn in loans and guarantees, has resulted in more than $200.0bn in private semiconductor investments, with Intel snatching nearly $20.0bn in grants and loans, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, the primary chipmaker for Nvidia and Apple, nabbing a further $11.6bn.

Samsung's announcement will kick off about a 30-day due diligence period, during which Samsung and the Commerce Department will hammer out the final terms of the agreement.

As of 0935 BST, Samsung's US-listed shares were down 1.21% at $1,514.00 each.

Reporting by Iain Gilbert at Sharecast.com
China's trade surplus in March was $20bn lower than last year as exports dropped more sharply than expected, according to figures released on Friday by the National Bureau Statistics of China.

The trade surplus came in at $58.55bn last month, down from $78.43bn in March 2023 and well below the $70.2bn expected by economists. This was the lowest level seen since October 2023.

Exports dropped by 7.5% year-on-year in March, reversing the 7.1% growth reported in February and much worse than the 3% decline expected.

Meanwhile, imports fell by 1.9%, down from 3.5% growth the previous month, surprising economists who had expected a 1.2% increase year-on-year.
London stocks were set to rise at the open on Friday as investors mulled the latest UK GDP data and eyed the start of US earnings season.

The FTSE 100 was called to open around 30 points higher.

Data released earlier by the Office for National Statistics showed the UK economy grew 0.1% in February following 0.3% growth the month before, raising hopes the recession is over.

Januarys growth was revised up from a previous estimate of 0.2%.

Liz McKeown, director of economic statistics at the ONS, said: "The economy grew slightly in February with widespread growth across manufacturing, particularly in the car sector. Services also grew a little with public transport and haulage, and telecommunications having strong months.

"Partially offsetting this there were notable falls across construction as the wet weather hampered many building projects.

"Looking across the last three months as a whole, the economy grew for the first time since last summer."

In corporate news, Petrofac updated the market on its ongoing negotiations concerning its finances, reporting that it was still in discussions with lenders to restructure debt, considering exchanging a significant portion for equity.

It said talks were underway with potential investors and major shareholders for further investment, while negotiations regarding the sale of non-core assets also persisted.

The company said it was focussed on meeting payment obligations, supporting recent contract awards, and ensuring Petrofac's capital structure aligned with its substantial backlog of $8bn.

UK equity investment firm Mercantile Investment Trust said it managed to grow returns in the year to 31 January despite "a generally unsupportive environment".

The company's net asset total return based on debt at par value was 4.5% and the total return to shareholders was 6.1%, under the ten-year averages of 6.1% and 6.4% respectively. Chair Angus Gordon Lennox said most of the company's portfolio holdings performed well.

"Existing portfolio holdings have been performing well despite the challenging conditions of the past year and should do even better as and when the economy strengthens," he said.
photo: Lucas Passmore

Victoria Aveyard was born and raised in East Longmeadow, Mass., a small town known only for the worst traffic rotary in the continental United States. She currently splits her time between the East and West coasts. As an author and screenwriter, she uses her career as an excuse to read too many books and watch too many movies. She is the author of the Red Queen and Realm Breaker series, the final installment of which, Fate Breaker, was recently published by HarperTeen.

Handsell readers your book in 25 words or less:

When the typical heroes fail, the ragtag B team steps up to save the world. It's Lord of the Rings meets Guardians of the Galaxy.

On your nightstand now:

My nightstand pile is a mix of currently reading (for pleasure or research) and to be read.

I'm working my way through Fairy Tale by Stephen King, and I find myself extremely anxious over the fate of an old German shepherd. I can handle pretty much anything in text, but dogs in danger really test me.

I also have a pair of books I'm reading for research right now: Black Flags, Blue Waters by Eric Jay Dolin and Sea of Faith by Stephen O'Shea.

As for the TBR: What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez, Legendborn by Tracy Deonn, and Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross are all waiting in the wings!

Favorite book when you were a child:

The first book to really grip me was Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine. I must have read it a dozen times when I was seven or eight, and it never got old. I was enamored with the world and the characters, as well as the concept of falling into a book. I was also deeply obsessed with the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. Obviously, I started with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (I had a beautiful, illustrated edition), but my favorite novel in the series is The Horse and His Boy. It's the only installment entirely grounded within the magical world, so to speak, and gave us, I think, the biggest view of the realm. Not to mention one my favorite female characters, Aravis Tarkheena, who I idolized when I was little.

Your top five authors:

Obviously, this is not set in stone, but these came to mind quickly. I am forever indebted to J.R.R. Tolkien and George R.R. Martin for the inspiration I've leeched out of their work, as well as Stephen King, who continues to boggle my mind. I'm also endlessly jealous of Megan Whalen Turner, who can somehow balance being both exceedingly intelligent and impossibly entertaining. I am also eagerly awaiting the next Katherine Arden novel!

Book you've faked reading:

Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton. It was a summer reading assignment in school, and something about being forced to read a book always made me angry. It wasn't the book's fault my teacher assigned it, but I hated it all the same. And now my own books are on some summer reading lists, so I don't blame anyone if they hate my books on sight, either.

Book you're an evangelist for:

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden, as well as her entire Winternight series. I was late to join the craze, and it was absolutely one of the best reading experiences of the last decade. This is always my recommendation when someone is looking for a fantasy series. More recently, I've also been passing around my copy of Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll. It isn't often you find a book that is both important and engaging, but Jessica Knoll knocked it out of the park.

Book you've bought for the cover:

Circe by Madeline Miller as well as A Thousand Ships and Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes. I've been a sucker for Greek mythology since D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths sucked me in as a child, and I love the evocative symbolism and artful simplicity currently trending in mythology retellings.

Book you hid from your parents:

Technically every book I read before going to college. I was absolutely scolded for reading at the dinner table or when caught reading under the covers well after bedtime. But neither of my parents were very curious about the content of what I was reading. I did hide quite a lot of fan fiction, both what I was reading and writing myself, largely because, at least when I was growing up, I was very embarrassed about it and had no idea how to explain what fan fiction was without sounding like an absolute loser. I'm very glad fan fiction is now a point of pride in the reading community.

Book that changed your life:

I would be lying if I didn't say The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. It shifted my entire being and opened my eyes not just to what I loved, but to what I had to do with my life. Unfortunately, my first copy fell apart, but I lugged that brick around for all of seventh grade. She earned a good death.

Favorite line from a book:

"I feel that as long as the Shire lies behind, safe and comfortable, I shall find wandering more bearable: I shall know that somewhere there is a firm foothold, even if my feet cannot stand there again." --The Fellowship of the Ring, J.R.R. Tolkien

This quote has stuck with me through the years, both for its poignancy and tragedy. So much of my favorite works circle around the concept of a fading world or disappearing age, the idea that something you hold is already slipping through your fingers. I feel like that a lot, so I take comfort in Frodo's words--the good thing still exists, even if it no longer exists for you.

Five books you'll never part with:

I'm getting repetitive, but I have an illustrated edition of The Lord of the Rings that I bought with all my birthday money when I was 13. It has lovely illustrations by Alan Lee, and I've taken it with me for over 20 years now. I also have a George R.R. Martin signed edition of A Dance with Dragons that I waited several hours in line for. It was the first book signing I ever attended. I also have my lovely collection of Tolkien universe reference books that I've had since middle school, including my very battered Atlas of Middle-Earth. My mom also has my old copies of the Maisie books by Aileen Paterson, a Scottish children's book series I read growing up. My granny used to send them over to us from Scotland, along with annuals of The Broons and Oor Wullie, both by R.D. Low and Dudley D. Watkins. I'm very sentimental about those as well--they're Scottish comics from the newspapers, going back to before World War II, and written in Scots! I used to read them all the time as a kid and didn't even realize I was technically reading another language.

Book you most want to read again for the first time:

I can't say I would enjoy having my heart ripped out by George R.R. Martin's A Storm of Swords, but that would certainly be an experience. Probably Megan Whalen Turner's Queen's Thief series. Or I wish I had read Tamora Pierce's Alanna books when I was in middle school, instead of as an adult. They were fantastic, but I can't imagine my obsession if I got them when I was 12.
photo: N. Affonso

Myriam J.A. Chancy's novel What Storm, What Thunder was named a Best Book of 2021 by NPR, Kirkus, Library Journal, the Boston Globe, and the Globe and Mail. She is also the author of several academic monographs, including Harvesting Haiti: Reflections on Unnatural Disasters and Framing Silence: Revolutionary Novels by Haitian Women. Her most recent novel is Village Weavers (Tin House, April 2, 2024), a story of two girls from Port-au-Prince, spanning decades and continents.

Handsell readers your book in 25 words or less:

Village Weavers travels to Port-au-Prince, Paris, Florida and more to uncover the divide between two girlfriends and their journey back to each other decades later.

On your nightstand now:

The Girl Before Her by Line Papin (translated by Adriana Hunter and Ly Lan Dill); Fire Rush by Jacqueline Crooks; Evil Eye by Etaf Rum; Ocean Stirrings by Merle Collins. Papin's book is a translation from the French about Vietnamese girls, following them from childhood to adulthood as they live through the Vietnam War and emigrate; it's written in lush, evocative prose. The other three novels provide insight into Caribbean and Palestinian lives. Merle Collins's novel is an epic retelling of Malcolm X's mother's story, from her great-grandmothers' lives down to her own; it does new things with the novel form and challenges me to think in new ways about what I'll do next in my own work.

Favorite book when you were a child:

The Black Stallion series by Walter Farley. I just came across a box set of the Farley novels in a little library in my neighborhood and it just made me smile and remember how I couldn't wait to get to the next volume in the series as a young reader. It also made me think about how to put stories together back then, wondering how Farley did it and how I might do it too someday.

Your top five authors:

James Baldwin, for writing complex novels that were far ahead of their time. Toni Morrison, for how she breaks the line. Paule Marshall, for writing that is timeless. Miriam Toews, for writing that it is both fine and full of humor in face of tragedy. M. NourbeSe Philip, for knowing how to speak to the dead.

Book you've faked reading:

Marcel Proust, A la recherche du temps perdu (In Search of Lost Time)--there are so many references to Proust's "madeleine" and mnemonics in literary fiction that it's hard to avoid having fake-read Proust but I do intend to read it (in the original) one day!

Book you're an evangelist for:

Gloria Naylor, Mama Day. How Naylor breaks linear time and the divide between the life of the spirit and the "everyday" is remarkable.

Book you've bought for the cover:

Black Food, edited by Bryant Terry, and pretty much any cookbook I own.

Book you hid from your parents:

Books by Judy Blume because everyone in junior high whispered about them.

Book that changed your life:

Alice Walker, In Search of Our Mothers' Gardens, which led me to read the works of Countee Cullen, Langston Hughes, Virginia Woolf, and Zora Neale Hurston when I was a teenager growing up in the prairies of Canada, meaning, in virtual isolation from other people of African descent.

Favorite line from a book:

"Is? My baby? Burning?" --Toni Morrison, Sula

Five books you'll never part with:

Giovanni's Room, James Baldwin; Praisesong for the Widow, Paule Marshall; Their Eyes Were Watching God, Zora Neale Hurston; A Small Place, Jamaica Kincaid; The Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck.

Book you most want to read again for the first time:

Ava by Carole Maso. It's a novel written in a song cycle, telling the story of a dying woman's life. What Maso does with the idea of song, sound, the poetic line, and white space is unmatched in this novel.

Book you think more people should know:

The Marvellous Equations of the Dread by Marcia Douglas. Douglas's experimental novel might seem, on the surface, to be about Bob Marley's death and legacy, but it is, in fact, about the women and children of Jamaica, Rastafari women, and the legacy of reggae, dub, and other forms of resistance created from the Tainos to the Maroons, to the creators in Trenchtown; Leena, the main character, is a deaf woman. I teach it almost every year and never tire of reading it: the book resonates with love and is written in such a way that there is always more to discover. It's also a student favorite so I think more people should know about it.

A recent book more people should read:

The Testaments by Margaret Atwood. The surprising way in which Atwood closes out The Handmaid's Tale is surprising and pitch-perfect.
CERT-In, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team operating under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, issued a warning regarding several vulnerabilities in various Microsoft products. These vulnerabilities could potentially enable attackers to access sensitive information, bypass security measures, and initiate denial-of-service (DoS) attacks on affected systems.

The range of affected Microsoft products includes Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Developer Tools, Azure, Browser, System Center, Microsoft Dynamics, and Exchange Server. The vulnerabilities identified encompass a spectrum of risks, including elevated privilege escalation, information disclosure, security restriction bypass, remote code execution, spoofing, and DoS.

Microsoft Windows, attributed to improper access restrictions within the proxy driver and inadequate implementation of the Mark of the Web (MotW) feature. Specifically highlighted were flaws within, attributed to improper access restrictions within the proxy driver and inadequate implementation of the Mark of the Web (MotW) feature.

CERT-In strongly recommended users to promptly apply the appropriate security updates provided in the company's update guide to mitigate these vulnerabilities effectively.

In addition to the Microsoft products, CERT-In also cautioned users about vulnerabilities found in Android and Mozilla Firefox web browsers. These vulnerabilities could potentially facilitate the unauthorized access of sensitive data, execution of arbitrary code, and initiation of DoS attacks on targeted systems.

The affected software versions identified in the advisory are 'Android 12, 12L, 13, 14', and 'Mozilla Firefox versions prior to 124.0.1 and Mozilla Firefox ESR versions before 115.9.1'. Users were urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, including updating to the latest versions of the software to ensure their systems' security and integrity.
In February, China and India continued to lead as primary destinations for Russian seaborne fuel oil and vacuum gasoil (VGO) exports, a trend spurred by their ongoing efforts to partially substitute crude oil, as indicated by traders and data from LSEG.

Following the European Union's comprehensive embargo on Russian oil products implemented in February 2023, Russia redirected the bulk of its fuel oil and VGO exports to other regions, particularly Asia.

Notably, direct shipments of fuel oil and VGO from Russian ports to India surged to 0.7 million metric tons in February, up from 0.46 million tons in January, based on Reuters calculations and LSEG data.

China received 0.7 million tons of fuel supplies from Russian ports in February, while Singapore and Malaysia received 0.63 million tons and around 120,000 tons, respectively.

India and China typically procure straight-run fuel oil and VGO for refining, often as a cost-effective alternative to Urals barrels, according to industry insiders.

Russian fuel oil and VGO was directed for ship-to-ship (STS) loadings near Greece's Kalamata port, totaling nearly 0.7 million tons, with most of these shipments ultimately destined for Asia. However, a significant portion ofand VGO was directed for ship-to-ship (STS) loadings near Greece's Kalamata port, totaling nearly 0.7 million tons, with most of these shipments ultimately destined for Asia.

In contrast, export shipments of dirty oil products from Russian ports to Turkey dipped in February to approximately 215,000 tons from 340,000 tons the previous month.

Furthermore, Russia notably increased its fuel exports to Senegal in response to heightened bunker demand, with more companies opting for routes around Africa instead of utilizing Red Sea routes. February saw fuel oil shipments from Russian ports to Senegal reaching 187,300 tons.

Overall, Russian fuel oil and VGO seaborne exports witnessed a 9% month-on-month increase in February, totaling 3.76 million tons, as per LSEG data.

This data underscores the continued significance of China and India as key markets for Russian fuel exports, alongside notable shifts in trade patterns influenced by geopolitical developments and evolving industry dynamics.
Naxnova, a prominent figure in surface augmentation and technology solutions, formerly recognized as Classic Stripes, has announced yet another significant milestone in its expansion journey. Today, the company proudly declared the successful acquisition of Advanced Thermal Technologies (ATT), a pioneering force in thermal management solutions headquartered in Austria. This strategic move follows closely on the heels of Naxnova's recent acquisition of Quad Industries based in Belgium. These consecutive acquisitions underscore Naxnova's unwavering dedication to delivering cutting-edge innovations to its global clientele.

ATT has earned widespread acclaim for its expertise in designing, developing, and manufacturing an array of advanced solutions spanning Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Sensor and Camera Heating Solutions, Vehicle Cabin Solutions, Battery Heating Solutions, Battery Diagnostic Solutions, Seat Sensing & Heating Solutions, and more. Catering to a diverse spectrum of industries including automotive, aerospace, retail, and building sectors, ATT boasts world-class R&D capabilities and an illustrious track record of servicing esteemed clientele such as Porsche, Airbus, Daimler, and Valeo.

Mr. Salil Musale, Managing Director of Naxnova, expressed his enthusiasm regarding this strategic acquisition, emphasizing its pivotal role in bolstering Naxnova's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. He highlighted the potential synergy between Naxnova and ATT, envisioning accelerated product development, expanded market reach, and increased opportunities for collaboration and partnership. Musale underscored the critical role of thermal management solutions in ensuring safety monitoring and enhancing human comfort, positioning ATT as a leading player in the realm of thermal science.

Furthermore, Musale elucidated on Naxnova's vision to leverage ATT's technological prowess to penetrate the Indian market effectively, aligning with the government's 'Design and Make in India for the World' initiative. By integrating ATT's cutting-edge technologies into its portfolio, Naxnova aims to deliver enhanced value propositions to customers across diverse sectors, propelling forward its mission of global innovation and leadership.

In response to the acquisition, the founders of Advanced Thermal Technologies expressed their optimism and eagerness to embark on this new chapter of growth alongside Naxnova. They lauded Naxnova's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, emphasizing the alignment of values between the two entities. The founders expressed confidence in the synergistic partnership, foreseeing accelerated product development and increased value proposition for customers across various industries.
STATEN ISLAND,N.Y.  Last September, when Costco started selling one-ounce 24-karat gold bars for $2,000 -- each handsomely detailed with an image of the Roman goddess Fortuna -- shoppers quickly hoarded the product.

When we load them on the site, theyre typically gone within a few hours, and we limit two per member, Costco Chief Financial Officer Richard Galanti said during a 2023 company earnings call.

And now the warehouse retailer is selling up to $200 million worth of gold and silver each month, according to an analysis from Wells Fargo, with online forums and Reddit threads cropping up so customers can give one another advice on how to purchase the goods before they sell out.

Buying gold becomes more common in times of economic turmoil, Sadiq S. Adatia, chief investment officer for BMO Global Asset Management, recently told The New York Times. And for those looking to purchase gold for the first time, Costco provides familiarity and ease.

They make it convenient, Adatia said. People can physically go in and pick it up, and thats it, versus opening up an account and buying gold shares.

Is Costco making a profit? Probably not much, Wells Fargo noted. Given its pricing and shipping costs, its likely a very low-profit business at best, analysts with the group wrote in a note to clients on Tuesday.

Still, Costco sold over $100 million of gold during the first quarter of 2023, the company reported in its annual earnings call. And Wells Fargo estimated that those sales have likely grown -- and may now be running at $100 million to $200 million per month.

The reason that we looked at this is that its becoming a larger contributor to sales for them, Edward Kelly, managing director of equity research at Wells Fargo, told The Times. Its not that $100 or $200 million a month is a lot for Costco, but its new business, and they didnt have that business last year.

But buyer beware: The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has urged caution when buying gold, because precious metals can be highly volatile.

Like other commodities, precious metal prices rise as demand goes up, so when economic anxiety or instability is high, the people who typically profit from precious metals are the sellers, the agency said in a statement.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) is looking to help 450 small businesses and commercial property owners across the five boroughs combat climate-related calamities.

Unveiled on April 2, the Business Preparedness and Resiliency Program (BPREP) can grant businesses situated in floodplains up to $5,000 to shore up their infrastructure with items like generators, fire and flood-proof storage, and flood barriers, after they complete a risk assessment, a written statement says. The assessment is free, to boot.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  On the night that 38-year-old Tamer Shaarawy was shot and killed during a home invasion on the boroughs South Shore, it wasnt just his family that was left reeling.

Moments after the woman convicted of orchestrating the robbery, 37-year-old Kaitlyn Reuter, was sentenced Thursday in state Supreme Court, St. George, her parents convened with Shaarawys family outside the courtroom.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  1144 Forest Ave. is another notable address on the avenue. Being my bus stop my entire young life, this corner photo was familiar; however, I have never stepped inside.

In the 1960s, it was known as Lemperles Tavern. The interior photo below from Jan. 4, 1968, shows a vintage cigarette machine in the back.

The brick building was built around 1934. From the municipal photograph, we cant tell what it was when it started out. Many North Shore locals remember it as the home of Emilys Keyboard, seen here in the early 1980s.

Emilys opened in 1982 and was run by lifelong Staten Islander Emily Sankewich, who died in 2005. Sankewich and her husband, Alexander, owned several bars on Staten Island, including Holland Tavern in Mariners Harbor and the former Sankys Tavern in Port Richmond.

Mrs. Sankewich created the popular Keyboard Lounge in Grant City with her partner, Edward Shaffer, in the late 1970s.

Her next business endeavor was co-owning Tipperary Corners, a bar named after the original name of Egbertville, on Rockland Avenue.

This West Brighton spot opened in May 2019 as Doc Hennigans. It bills itself as an American comfort food bar and restaurant. The restaurant serves corned beef sandwiches and beer on tap year-round.

Many North Shore residents remember Emily's Keyboard, seen here in the early 1980s. The spot, opened in 1982, was run by lifelong Staten Islander Emily Sankewich, who died in 2005. Staten Island Advance

From the Herbert A. Flamm Photograph Collection is a diagonal front view of Lemperle's Tavern at 1144 Forest Avenue in West New Brighton on Jan. 4, 1968. It is a two-story building built in 1934, with a sign over the entrance: "LEMPERLE'S / TAVERN / STEAKS / PARKING in the REAR." (Staten Island Historical Society Collection)Staten Island Advance

This original black and white film negative shows an interior view of Lemperle's Tavern at 1144 Forest Avenue in West New Brighton. The bar is at right, and there is a cigarette vending machine against the back wall. Earliest Date: 1968 (Collection of Historic Richmond Town)Staten Island Advance

Doc Hennigans took over the space serving American comfort food with a twist in 2019. (Staten Island Advance)Staten Island Advance

Crimmins Ale House came after Emily's Keyboard. (Staten Island Advance) Staten Island Advance

The current business at 1144 Forest Avenue in West New Brighton on April 8, 2024 is a tavern renamed Doc Hennigans, located near the corner of DuBois Avenue on Forest Avenue. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)Staten Island Advance

A street-naming ceremony was held at the intersection of Forest and Dubois Avenue on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023 in honor of Emily Sankewich  a woman who owned a string of bars serving locals for over 40 years. (Staten Island Advance/Priya Shahi)Priya Shahi
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The Detectives Crime Clinic Metropolitan New Jersey and New York honored four members of the Staten Island District Attorneys office several weeks ago for their handling of the Linden Beaton case.

Detectives Richard Dinkle and Genee Parker, Trials Bureau Deputy Chief Lisa Davis and Domestic Violence Division Chief Victoria Levin were the honorees.
Sweet Homes district is building its name as a wildland fire outfit  maybe one of the first departments in the country to moonlight as a fire crew for hire  based on its recognition for fighting a blaze on a forest 6 miles south and east of the city in 2023.

We had some huge success on the Wiley Creek Fire, Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District Chief Nick Tyler said.

A Place to Sleep, episode 4: Sweet Home In Sweet Home, you'll find the region's only designated sleeping place for folks actively self-medicating with alcohol and narcotics.

Sweet Home Fire is asking for more than $3 million in bonds to pay for the brush rigs and wood chipper truck it needs to fill that specialized forest firefighter role, and make good on $1 million in annual federal forest funds that could help fill budget gaps closer to home.

It's one of three small governments that provide fire and medical crews across Linn County going to the voters with hat in hand, asking for tax-related funding on the ballot in Oregons May 21 primary election.

Not a levy, a bond

Unlike the others, Sweet Home is not looking for a local option tax levy. Instead, it's asking for voters to cover a seven-year general obligation bond. The estimated annual average tax rate would be 47 cents for every $1,000 of assessed property values.

Sweet Homes fire district is trying to fund its efforts to fight structure fires and respond to medical emergencies in the East Linn County city by digging fire lines elsewhere in Oregons forests, "which is what our community needs," Nick Tyler, chief at the Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District, said.

"We need those local resources. We need a robust wildland division, he said.

The district experienced a lot of the same attrition seen at small fire and police departments after the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Tyler said trainees in the districts part-time emergency medical technician program frequently leave for fire departments with bigger budgets.

That person we used to employ for minimum wage can go up to Clackamas and make $100,000 a year without their paramedic certificate, Tyler said.

Tyler said the district considered an option levy like Jefferson or Lebanon, but scrapped the estimated $1.5 million-each-year demand on taxpayers. Sweet Home Fire hadnt earned those additional taxes, he said.

I was going to have to go to the taxpayers and ask them to double their tax burden to facilitate this happening, Tyler said. I live in Sweet Home  Im a taxpayer, too. That just didnt sit well with me.

A federal helping hand

Instead, Tyler looked to connections his agency made while Sweet Home crews worked alongside Oregon Department of Forestry on Wiley Creek. That fire consumed 245 acres of trees between August and September 2023.

And forest managers noticed the local fire districts efforts to contain the blaze.

The U.S. Forest Service will grant the district $1 million each year to fight fire in federal forests.

Thats a large grant for a department with an about $5 million-each-year budget.

In turn, Tyler said, Sweet Home Fire will pay for a 20-person crew that can dig up dried, flammable plants and create barren lines on the ground meant to stop the advance of flames. Tyler said 10 of those positions are permanent, with the rest filled ahead of each summer.

The district starts hiring in May, Tyler said.

With the wildfire hand crew fully funded, Sweet Home Fire would funnel any reimbursement paid from Oregon or other districts into the agencys budget. Then, Tyler said, the district would use income from wildland firefighting to pay for equipment and wages needed to respond to medical calls and fires in buildings inside the city of Sweet Home.

Tyler said its too early to know how much revenue the districts hand crew will raise, but said Sweet Home Fire will need the money to offset a 17% hike to insurance rates and increased contributions to the state Public Employees Retirement System.

The financial burdens to the district are going up like no one has seen, Tyler said.

The district also is seeking to fund a big, all-terrain wood chipper truck that the newly formed wildfire crews will use to break down and transport plant matter before it can catch fire.

Within the district, the hand crew and chipper truck will knock back brush and trees that potentially could fuel fires threatening Sweet Home.

Tyler said taxpayers want more security from conflagration in a region where some are still recovering from the 2020 Labor Day fires. State officials estimated more than 1.2 million acres burned in a dozen fires around Oregon, the largest and most destructive in northeastern Linn County.

We also need that crew in our area as well, Tyler said.

The districts wildland crew also will work in Sweet Home during fire season, when the area typically sees a week or two of high-risk fire conditions. Lightning potentially can spark fast-moving fires in the wind-dried and sunbaked foothills of the Cascades, typically by September.

The state forestry department usually manages fires over a certain size or burning in terrain where a structural fire fighting department like Sweet Home doesnt need to lead firefighters attack. But that department frequently relies on outside, private contractors for equipment and personnel and doesnt have a hand crew in the area.

Now we can give help to ODF and really solidify what we do together, Tyler said.

Tyler said the districts hand crew will need a home.

Spending the bond money

Sweet Home Fire would use funding from its bond measure in May to overhaul a station where no firefighters are based, in Cascadia, an unincorporated community about 20 minutes and 16 miles east of Sweet Home.

The wildfire-focused Cascadia station would put firefighters capable of handling structural fires closer to the Cascades, too, in a relatively remote region where some emergency calls are an hour away.

Sweet Home Fire also will buy radios that could help fire crews talk on a remote district where sometimes steep hills and deep canyons block signals and black out communication. And the district needs two ambulances, $350,000 apiece, to replace aging vehicles in a district where medics respond to nearly 3,000 calls each year.

Not too long ago, that was the cost of a firetruck that lasts 20 years, Tyler said.

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  In honor of those who have died, here is a compilation of obituaries posted on SILive.com. Viewing times and guest books can be seen here.

Diane M. Jacey, a longtime educator and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 7, 2024. Originally from Staten Island, she dedicated 30 years of her life to teaching at PS 26 before relocating to Manchester, N.J., over two decades ago. Diane leaves behind fond memories and will forever be remembered by her brothers Charles and sister-in-law Arlene Jacey, her cousins Mary Reilly, Marita and Thomas Coakley, Joan Sherry, and Kenneth Gamgee, as well as her nieces, nephews, and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Marie Jacey. Active in her church and community, Diance was a member of the Toms River Presbyterian Church, the Educators Club, and the Ladies Auxiliary of Kimball Medical Center. Her kindness and dedication touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed. For the full obituary, click here.

Carol Kerr, a beloved educator and lifelong resident of Staten Island, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her devoted family. After graduating from Cedar Crest College, she dedicated herself to teaching, spending many years as a beloved kindergarten teacher at PS 48, Targee Street, until her retirement in 1991. Throughout her teaching career, Carol pursued her passion for learning, earning a Masters Degree at Wagner College and continuing her education. In retirement, Carol enjoyed traveling with the YMCA to destinations like Ireland and Disney World. She also engaged in community work, participating in the senior Olympics and cherishing the companionship of friends at the local senior center. Known for her love of animals, children, and vibrant spirit, Carol embraced every moment. Preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Fred W. Kerr, and more recently her son, Fred Kerr, Carol is survived by her children David, Scott, Pamela, and her husband Tim, and grandsons Tim and Patrick Murphy. Supported by her aide Lucy and therapist Max, Carol leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, warmly remembered by her extended family. For the full obituary, click here.

YESTERDAYS OBITUARIES

Francis X. Silvestri, a proud retiree from the Bored of Education, as he jokingly called it, passed away at the age of 80. Francis was a dedicated educator and member of the United Federation of Teachers, he was also known as the unofficial president of The Albert Shanker Fan Club. His academic journey began with a strong foundation in languages including classical Greek and Latin, which he cultivated during his education at Xavier High School and Georgetown University. He earned his masters degree in Biology at Hunter College and entered the NYC public school system, teaching at Tottenville High School and Sarah J. Hale. He later became an attendance teacher, finding fulfillment at Susan Wagner High School and McKee Tech. Even in retirement, he mentored students at Kingsborough Community College and Borough of Manhattan Community college. Beyond his professional life, he cared for his wife, Patricia, during her illness and found solace in his Catholic faith. Francis cherished moments spent watching his grandsons play baseball at Snug Harbor Little League in Livingston. Survived by his daughter and grandchildren, his legacy lives on through his dedication to education, family, and faith. For the full obituary, click here.

Richard J. Mayronne, a decorated veteran of both the Army and the USMC, and a distinguished retired inspector of the NYPD, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024, at his Staten Island home surrounded by his devoted family. He was a cherished husband to Veronica, a loving father to eight children, and a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren. Alongside his family, he is survived by his sister Barbara, and his childhood friend of 80 years, Paul Geiger. Richard was a dedicated scholar, earning Bachelors and Masters degrees in Business Administration, Police Science, and Criminal Justice from St. Johns University, NYIT, and John Jay College. He also shared his knowledge by teaching Criminal Justice at Ocean County College. In retirement he found solace in watching his favorite team, the NY Yankees play, never missing a game. However, his true happiness came from spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Richard lived a life marked by service love, and devotion to those he held dear, leaving a legacy of warmth and affection. For the full obituary, click here.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Trillions of periodical cicadas will buzz this spring, as two broods emerge and appear in several states across the country, according to scientists.

There are two types of periodical cicadas  those that come out every 13 years and those that come out every 17 years. They emerge in broods, labeled with Roman numerals.
In response, the government is convinced we need more competition between businesses  and one way to achieve this is to tighten the corporate merger regime. Under this weeks package, Chalmers wants to bring in changes from 2026 that should make it easier for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to block anticompetitive deals. Treasurer Jim Chalmers this week pointed to growing concentration in the economy. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer For a start, the new regime would require the watchdog be notified of mergers above a certain threshold, and the ACCC will then have to assess the deal for any risks to competition. Thats actually a significant development. Under the current laws, if the ACCC doesnt like a deal it has to make its case in court, putting the onus on the regulator to prove that the merger that hasnt happened yet will result in a substantial lessening of competition. The watchdog has had some well-known losses in court, where its struggled to counter evidence from executives who swear competition wont be harmed by the deal theyre planning.

As well as requiring deals to go to the ACCC first, the new regime will allow a deal to be quashed if it creates, strengthens, or entrenches substantial market power. These few words could make a real difference. The ACCCs chair, Gina Cass-Gottlieb, hopes these changes will help the regulator deal with one of its big concerns: so-called killer acquisitions, often by technology giants. This is where an established player decides to buy out a nascent but promising rival  something that is indeed bad news for competition. (The ACCC would still need to prove its case in court.) A general suspicion theres not enough competition sits behind much of the recent political backlash against big business and the accusations of gouging. The new regime will also make it easier for the ACCC to block companies from making creeping acquisitions  lots of small deals that on their own seem insignificant, but have the cumulative effect of weakening competition. Business groups were not exactly heaping praise on these changes this week, but their complaints about red tape werent hugely vocal, either. Thats probably because the new merger regime wont result in radical changes, or a dramatic rise in the number of deals that are rejected. Indeed, Chalmers was at pains to point out that most mergers arent bad  they can be a way for businesses to gain scale and become more efficient.

But if thats the case, then how big a change are we talking about, really? Quantifying the benefits of the changes is tricky, because we just dont know which future mergers might now not happen under the new rules. Even so, the evidence suggests that the Australian economy has become more concentrated. And we also know that companies with market power like to use it when setting their prices  indeed, this is what the sharemarket expects. So, there is a solid economic case for tighter merger laws, provided they dont add excessive costs to businesses. As for the debate about divestiture (forced corporate break-ups), some experts  including Fels  have made convincing arguments that this would be a useful tool for dealing with companies that have seriously breached competition laws.
Groups like Blackpink and BTS have brought South Korean pop music to mainstream Western audiences while TV shows like Jewel In The Palace have done the same for K-dramas. But over the past few years theres been a new and increasingly popular South Korean export: K-horror. In particular, zombie horror.

South Korean zombie shows and movies have become a global phenomenon since Yeon Sang-hos acclaimed 2016 hit Train to Busan, with genre follow-ups like The Wailing and Rampant garnering cult followings.

South Korean zombie content has become a global phenomenon, with films like Train to Busan garnering a cult following. Credit: Compiled by Bethany Rae.

The phenomenon has caught Netflixs attention, resulting in the period horror drama Kingdom and the recently released apocalyptic thriller, Parasyte: The Grey, a series in which a parasitic species from outer-space infects humans, turning them into zombie-like creatures.

South Korea is still relatively new to the zombie oeuvre, experiencing its current wave 50 years after George A .Romeros trailblazing Night of the Living Dead ushered in the modern zombie film. So, what sets it apart from the many other iterations of brain-eating hordes?
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Cruise ship drink options have never been more exciting. Heres some to wet your whistle with.

This article appears in the cruise ship dining and drinks collection. See all stories .

The words navy strength elicit a chuckle from the group as the charismatic Four Pillars brand ambassador directs our attention to the fifth glass of clear spirits before us.

As we take a sip, he tells us its a navy-strength limited-edition collaboration bottle between Celebrity Cruises and Four Pillars, available in Celebrity Edges 11 bars, including the one where were doing an intimate gin tasting as we sail from Sydney to New Zealand.

Navy strength is an old term for over-proof gin (it has to be 57 per cent ABV), a concept born on the high seas. It might pack a punch, but the tasting reveals it has a sweeter edge than the less boozy Rare Dry Gin (41 per cent) we tried earlier.

The limited-edition Celebrity Cruises x Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin. Supplied

Celebrity and the Australian distillery have worked together for two years to offer on-board gin experiences like this. There are also gin and food pairings, gin cocktails and chocolate masterclasses and, on a recent voyage to Tasmania, an oyster and gin pairing event.
A man who rammed his car into a McDonalds before chasing a woman inside with a knife and threatening to kill her instilled sheer and understandable terror into his victim, who endured what no woman should ever have to, a judge has said.

The dignity of the victim must be vindicated, Judge Tanya Smith said as she sentenced Abbas Hayder Al-Khafaji in Sydneys Downing Centre District Court on Friday.

CCTV vision played in court showed the vehicle smash into the McDonalds store. Credit: Nine News

The 29-year-old was jailed for a maximum of five-and-a-half years, with a non-parole period of three years and eight months, for the terrifying ordeal in the middle of the night at Narellan McDonalds in southwest Sydney in 2022.

The woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, met up with Al-Khafaji in the car park after being wrongfully accused of having sex with someone else when she had instead been at her family home watching Netflix.
He made no application for bail when his case came before court in Parramatta on Saturday. Bail was formally refused, and the case returns to court on April 19. Police are still looking for four other people believed to have been involved and hope to make more arrests, and are calling for anyone with footage of the incident to send it to police. Riot police were out in full force in Doonside on Saturday morning speaking to neighbours and inspecting items on the kerbside in the streets around the school where the stabbing took place. Police officers comb the streets around Crawford High School for evidence on Saturday morning after a fatal stabbing on Friday. Credit: Oscar Colman Detectives inspected a pair of disposable gloves on nearby Hill End Road before placing them in an evidence bag.

Police tape had been removed from the bus stop, though there were splatters of what appeared to be blood on the footpath nearby. Local Don Rei - who lives along Power Street and is an alumni of Doonside Technology High School, which is next to Crawford Public School, said he came home to find the street closed, two helicopters flying above and a heavy police presence. He said animosity between the residents of the Blacktown and Mount Druitt suburbs went back decades but during his time, the focus was on competition between the two rugby league teams. The stabbing occurred at a bus stop outside Crawford Public School, Doonside, on Friday. He said truancy was a major problem with kids riding bikes up and down the street during school hours.

Most houses on the street have been burgled, he said, with many residents installing security cameras or getting big dogs. I dont know what can be done. How are these children bringing knives to school? Its dreadful, he said. The solution is probably stricter schooling values. Another neighbour, who asked not to be named, said he was so concerned about the escalating violence he was considering moving. Police at the crime scene outside Blacktown Police Station. Credit: TNV Im worried about my nephews; its just getting worse, he said.

Police are investigating whether the teenagers were involved in an altercation on a bus before the fatal stabbing. One line of inquiry is whether the stabbings were part of the so-called postcode wars involving rival teenagers from neighbouring suburbs. The stabbing follows the murder of local teenager Uati Faletolu, 17, at the 2022 Easter Show, allegedly at the hands of teenagers from a rival gang. Two 18-year-olds and a 14-year-old, who allegedly inflicted the fatal wounds, were later charged. Police have not confirmed whether Faletolu was a member of the Doonside gang known as 67, in a nod to the suburb postcode 2767, which has a history of rivalry with Mt Druitt gang RFA (ready for anything). The words six seven, mother-er were allegedly called out during the melee by a 15-year-old who later pleaded guilty to affray and carrying a knife.

Music posted to TikTok, purportedly by RFA, has since referenced Faletolus death with subtitles and imagery. One recent clip, overlaid with photographs of Faletolu, includes the lyrics: You got dipped and cut right back and burnt that Holden/My side gets straight to the action. Another posted by Mt Druitt rap group Onefour, alluding to the Doonside and Mt Druitt district postcodes 2767 and 2760, features the lines: Cops got my crew on the hit list, cos they know One Four means business/ 27 to 60 cuz/ Like Hunger Games Ill back my district. OneFour, whose tours have been shut down by police to mitigate any incitement to violence, denies a connection to RFA and says its lyrics should not be taken literally.
Australian Football Hall of Famer Carl Ditterich has been charged with a string of child sex offences for allegedly assaulting a girl who was under his care in 1985.

Detectives charged the 78-year-old with three counts of indecent assault and one count of gross indecency last Friday following an investigation into the alleged historical incident.

Former St Kilda great Carl Ditterich. Credit: Michael Rayner

The alleged incident occurred five years after Ditterich retired from the league in 1980, following a near 20-year career which later earned the ruckman an induction into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2004.

Police allege that in August1985, Ditterich forced a girl under the age of 16 to touch his penis. They also allege he molested the young girl, groped her breast and masturbated in front of her.
Loading Dutch-born, Moller moved with her family to England when she was eight, where she eventually studied medicine. Not satisfied with one degree, she went on to complete a Masters in Forensic Medicine, Law, and Public Health, and is a consultant to the International Criminal Court in The Hague. The ICC has traditionally concentrated on war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, but it has recently focused on systemic gender-related crimes, specifically sexual assault as a war crime. The targets are not the individual perpetrators, but the leaders responsible for using it as a tactic of war. As a consultant, Moller reviews forensic reports and conducts online interviews with victims. Such an impressive set of qualifications probably lends itself to a university position but Moller remains hands-on, seeing dozens of patients while supervising forensic teams who deal with hundreds more.

The service sees between 500 and 600 patients of alleged sexual assaults, taking samples for examination and providing expert opinions on the likely cause of injuries. With figures estimating only one in 10 sexual assault victims make complaints, no one is sure of the real number of offences. It is the tip of the iceberg, says Moller. Maaike Moller is also a consultant to the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Credit: Eddie Jim So about 12 victims, the overwhelming majority female, are presenting each week as victims of serious sexual assault, and if the estimates are correct around 100 women are attacked each week. It is, indeed, a silent epidemic. To put it in perspective, the annual number of real  rather than reported  victims would fill Marvel Stadium to capacity.

Loading While there is frustration, there is also success. Moller says they are often the first hope for victims who have been stripped of basic human rights. One category of cases dealt with within the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) is a form of family violence rarely discussed. It is known as honour or shame crimes, where a woman is attacked by family members because she dared to try to exercise her fundamental right to live a lawful life. This includes having friends outside an approved group, refusing to enter an arranged marriage, or failing to pray in an orthodox manner. Until recently, Australian police were slow to pick up the signs. When a UK honour crime expert came to Victoria, she asked how many murders were listed under the category. When told there were none, she responded: Then you are not looking.

In one alleged honour crime case, a womans health slowly deteriorated until it was discovered she was being systematically poisoned. Moller says some of these crimes are not even recognised as crimes. She says some victims choose suicide and others are pressured to take their own lives. The person is told by family members that the only way to redeem themselves and remove the shame is to end it all. Part of the forensic staffs job is not just to gather evidence, but also help the patient recover their independence. Too often, repeated abuse  sexual, verbal, physical and to children  becomes part of their miserable existence. The victims learn to cope by avoiding trigger issues, trying to be small targets and just trying to survive. When the victim is finally seen by the forensic team, Moller says: We can show that what is happening is not OK and offer hope that we can help.

She says one case involved a woman who was sexually assaulted every day for decades. The repeated attacks had become part of her daily routine. It was her only experience of a relationship, says Moller. The woman sought help only after her partner began to hit her. Moller hopes stories like this will encourage victims to come forward and find there is a better way. Criminal prosecution is not the only way to provide meaningful help. Being believed is important. Dr Maaike Moller While completing her Diploma of Tropical Medicine in Liverpool in 2006, she met her husband, Chris Nickson, an intensive care specialist, and went with him to Darwin where she could work in some of her areas of interest  tropical diseases, womens health and issues affecting high-risk groups. Since 2017, she has been clinical lead for family violence for the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine while consulting for the ICC.

Loading She says: We are part of the criminal process, but we are mindful of the systems limitations. Collecting evidence is not the whole picture and the law affords the accused the presumption of innocence. We have to keep realistic expectations. It (criminal prosecution) is not the only way to provide meaningful help. Being believed is important. Typically, a patient is referred to the service by the police and taken to a forensic suite at Monash, Maroondah, the Austin Hospital, Sunshine or the Womens Hospital. She says they are forensically cleaned to collect DNA, have showers and are separated from the hustle and bustle of the regular hospital. There are also multidisciplinary facilities where a patient can be examined, make a statement to police and receive assistance from sexual assault counsellors.

Loading The medical team of doctors and forensic nurses can conduct examinations in intensive care wards, nursing homes, prisons and psychiatric hospitals, bringing specially treated DNA sheets so samples are not compromised. The teams are based at the VIFM office in Southbank and hubs in the outer east and west. In rural Victoria, there are trained doctors and nurses that can be called to cases. They are called not only to examine alleged victims of sexual assault but also the suspects  often inside a police station  to see if there are injuries, forensic samples and marks, such as scars or tattoos relevant to the investigation. Increasingly, they are being called to make expert assessments in cold cases.

Moller says there have been cases where a victim has been assaulted for up to 10 years but was too intimidated to tell the truth, blaming their injuries on routine mishaps such as falling down the stairs. But often the victim may have photographed the wounds. Moller says they can examine selfies and medical records to establish a pattern of abuse. The forensic teams may well be compassionate, but they work in a brutal world. Victims of sexual assault can be told the case is too weak to take to court, and some who may be uncertain of what happened to them after blacking out can receive the most awful news after the medical examination  that they were raped. Moller says the way to survive the frustrations of seeing cases where victims dont get justice in the criminal courts is to understand the system and its limitations. There are wins along the way. She points to new laws on strangulation as a positive in the fight against family violence.

Loading Police recognise that the act of deliberately choking someone is a dangerous sign  even if the injuries sustained are relatively minor. To remove the subjective view of individual police, officers called to a family violence incident take with them a 39-point checklist that includes previous threats, history of violence, mental illnesses, planned separation, threats to harm pets, recent pregnancy and children exposed to harm. Four red lights means the case is assigned to specialist family violence investigators; however, if there has been any choking, the case is immediately escalated. Police family violence training expert Tracey Nichols says choking is often an indicator of potential homicide.
Andrew Forrests legal battle to hold social media giant Meta to account over the proliferation of scam ads using his likeness on Facebook has been dealt a major blow.

The Commonwealth filed a notice of discontinuance on all charges in the case on Friday morning, putting an end to the mining magnates two-year-long court crusade in Perth.

The case has been dropped by the prosecution. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions lawyer Tahlia Zerafa told the District Court the federal body had made the decision after assessing the evidence behind the three charges of recklessly dealing with the proceeds of crime.

The court consented to receiving the notice and Meta was discharged within a matter of minutes.
For cruisers willing and able to take advantage of last-minute cruise deals the bargains can be amazing. The keenest prices are for bargain hunters tuned into late-breaking offers, with their bags packed and ready to roll at short notice.

Holland America has a 14-day repositioning cruise departing Fort Lauderdale in Florida and finishing in Rotterdam from $1329 a person, but at the time of writing, departure is just five days away.

Nab a bargain with a Holland America repositioning cruise.

Cruise Guru has an 18-night Transpacific cruise departing Sydney and finishing in Honolulu aboard Royal Caribbeans Ovation of the Seas starting at $2877 a person for a balcony suite with a king-size bed, also sailing in five days. MSC Cruises has a seven-night itinerary from Rome, visiting Palma De Mallorca, Barcelona, Cannes and Genoa from $1325 a person, departing in 10 days.

Holland Americas new Standby Program puts last-minute cruisers on board at a fixed price of $US49 ($75) a person a day, but its only available to those who live within driving distance of an eligible port, and no Australian port qualifies. Cruise operators make it easy to find their last-minute deals.
It had taken just 100 days for Rwandas Hutu genocidaires to slaughter somewhere between half a million and a million people, the vast majority of them Tutsis. Most of the killing was accomplished with the use of machetes, blunt clubs, grenades and accompanied by the rape of an estimated quarter-of-a-million women and girls. The world turned its back. The United Nations reputation was forever stained for withdrawing its few troops rather than sending a force that might have stopped the bloodbath. When Siewert and I arrived in Rwanda, it was a place of ghosts, all but emptied. It was too late for anyone to rescue the doomed, and it was left to aid workers to care for those left, many of them dying of cholera and dysentery, their bodies tossed into pits and covered in quicklime. There was a ghastly ambivalence about even this, for those who fled their country were also those who had done much of the killing.

It is always the children who suffer most from the brutal bickering of adults, whatever the conflict. They are innocent. It is never their fight. It is as if the childrens dismal task is to stab the conscience of a world that often seems beyond caring. The images of their agony haunt generations. Such images often refuse to vacate the minds of those who bear witness close enough to seize the torment on film.

The 1972 picture of a little girl screaming, her naked body burned by napalm, became the photo that exposed the unbearable viciousness of the Vietnam War. This photo of Kim Phuc after a napalm attack has become synonymous of the horror of the Vietnam War. Credit: Nick Ut Less known is that the photographer who captured the nine-year-old childs torment, Nick Ut, drove her to a medical outpost and demanded that she be treated, despite doctors claiming that with 35 per cent of her body seared by third-degree burns, she could not be saved. If I dont help her  if something happened and she died  I think Id kill myself after that, Ut said later. The child, named Kim Phuc, survived.

In 1993, the picture of a child collapsed and starving in southern Sudan, a hooded vulture standing covetously nearby, led the world into an understanding of civil war and famine. The South African photographer, Kevin Carter, chased the vulture away. The child reportedly survived. Carter won a Pulitzer Prize for the picture. He took his own life four months later. And now our television screens bring us nightly the faces of children trapped in the corridor of the damned, Gaza, battling to get enough food to survive, and screaming and bleeding in bombed-out hospitals.

The reporters and photographers who refuse to turn away do their jobs at enormous risk to their own lives, their numbers dwindling. According to Reporters Sans Frontieres (Reporters Without Borders), 103 journalists have been killed in Gaza in the past six months. Palestinian children wounded by Israeli bombardment of Gaza are treated in a hospital in Rafah. Credit: AP And for what, really? The world today seems as slow and unwilling to intercede in any useful way to try to save the lives of children in Gaza as it was in Rwanda 30 years ago, or in Vietnam 52 years ago, or in Sudan 31 years ago, and almost any time in the decades since. The leaders of Hamas knew what would happen to their followers children after they sent their terror squads into Israel, killing and taking hostages, on October 7. The pictures of suffering to come were surely in their long-range strategy.
As Donald Trump, the first US president ever indicted, faces justice in a Manhattan courtroom, he is channelling his inner Aaron Burr, the first vice president to be indicted and brought to trial. Burr was not charged with murdering the revered Alexander Hamilton in a duel in New Jersey, but several years later, in 1807, for conspiracy to commit treason. Although disgraced, Burr was acquitted.

Trump yearns for the same judicial fate. The former president faces 91 felony counts in four separate trials. No other political figure has ever matched Trumps nerve and moxie to turn what would be, for anyone else, a political death sentence into a sword to cut down his enemies.

Republican voters overwhelmingly believe Trump is being persecuted by President Joe Biden  that Biden has weaponised the full power of his government to rig the election by indicting Trump in multiple jurisdictions, rendering him a criminal candidate in the November election.

Every time they indict me, Trump tells his rallies, I consider it a great badge of honour. Im being indicted for you, and never forget, our enemies want to take away my freedom because I will never let them take away your freedom  In the end, they are not after me. Theyre coming after you and I just happen to be standing in the way.
Japan seeks to reclaim tech edge with overseas help



Tokyo, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Massive overseas and domestic investments offer Japan a chance to reclaim its tech crown, but to become a convincing alternative to China the country must embrace rapid innovation, experts say.

US tech giants are pumping billions of dollars into artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and chip production in Japan, which dominated the hardware industry in the 1980s.

Google launched a regional cyber defence hub in the country last month, and Amazon Web Services is spending $14 billion to expand Japanese cloud infrastructure.

And in the latest move, this week saw Microsoft, a partner of ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, pledge $2.9 billion to boost the nation's AI prowess.

"Geopolitical tensions have made Japan a more attractive and stable partner compared to China," said Khos-Erdene Baatarkhuu, CEO of fintech company AND Global.

"Japan's tech sector, once a leader, lost ground due to a slower response to digital and mobile trends" compared with neighbours such as South Korea, he told AFP.

But "now, with supportive government policies, resilient start-ups, and a potentially shifting global tech scene, Japan has an opportunity to regain its tech edge".

It's not there yet, however. Japan was ranked a lowly 32nd in the latest global classification of digital competitiveness by Swiss management school IMD.

And only seven Japanese firms appear among more than 1,200 tech "unicorns" -- start-ups worth more than $1 billion -- listed by CB Insights.

A "perfection-seeking approach" and preference for "stability and gradual improvement" among businesses is partly to blame, Khos-Erdene said.

"The traditional corporate culture in Japan tends to be risk-averse and hierarchical, which can stifle the rapid innovation typically seen in the software industry."



- Microchip 'revival' -



Masayoshi Son, CEO of Japanese tech investment vehicle SoftBank Group, has warned the country could be left a gawping "goldfish" if it ignores AI.

"Wake up Japan!" he said at a corporate event in October. "I want to be on the side of evolution."

Son and tech titans including Apple boss Tim Cook and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos joined Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and US President Joe Biden at a Washington dinner on Wednesday.

At a summit that day, Kishida and Biden had vowed to strengthen "our shared role as global leaders in the development and protection of next-generation critical and emerging technologies".

They also agreed to work with "like-minded countries to strengthen global semiconductor supply chains" in a joint statement.

Semiconductors, which power everything from mobile phones to cars, have become a key battleground in recent years.

The United States and some European countries have blocked exports of high-tech chip technology to China over fears of military use.

Meanwhile, Taiwanese chip behemoth TSMC is facing pressure to diversify its production from customers and governments worried about the possibility of China invading Taiwan.

TSMC opened a new $8.6 billion chip factory in southern Japan in February, and is planning a second, $20-billion facility for more advanced chips.

On a visit to the TSMC plant this month, Kishida said he "felt first-hand the revival of our country's semiconductor industry".

Japan has spent 3.9 trillion yen ($25 billion) in the past three years on chip-related subsidies -- a larger portion of gross domestic product than the United States or Germany.

Japanese firms including Sony and Toyota are also collaborating with US giant IBM on a semiconductor project called Rapidus, aiming to mass-produce two-nanometre logic chips in Japan from 2027.



- 'Crossroads' -



"This is a great time to invest in Japan" with the yen's value at a 34-year low, said Hideaki Yokota, vice president of the specialist IT think-tank MM Research Institute.

Tech firms hope the country can become their "best partner in Asia" while its workforce boasts many highly educated engineers ready to be snapped up, he told AFP.

Established Japanese businesses, especially in the auto and household appliance sectors, provide real-world opportunities to make AI profitable, he said.

But Khos-Erdene warned that Japan should not rely on its legacy as a manufacturer, given its low labour productivity and shrinking workforce.

"As CEO of a tech company, I see Japan at a crossroads," he said, with the question not if but how quickly the country can become a "producer, not just a consumer, of these transformative technologies".

Microsoft plans to offer AI training to three million of Japan's population of 125 million.

Japanese and American universities are also teaming up on new technology research programmes funded by global companies such as Nvidia and Arm.

"Overall, Japan's commitment to AI holds tremendous potential for economic revitalisation," Khos-Erdene said.

"By fostering collaboration, retaining top talent, and learning from successful models like the US and China, Japan can bridge the AI gap and re-establish itself as a major force in the global tech landscape."

hih-etb/kaf/dan

GOOGLE

MICROSOFT

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY

Apple

Amazon.com

TSMC - TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY

SONY

TOYOTA MOTOR

IBM

Nvidia
Top US general visits Israel amid Iran threat fears: Pentagon



Washington, April 11 (AFP) Apr 11, 2024



The top US commander for the Middle East is in Israel for talks with the country's military officials on security threats, the Pentagon said Thursday.

The visit comes amid fears that Iran will retaliate after an Israeli strike that killed seven members of Tehran's elite Revolutionary Guards, including two generals, in Syria earlier this month.

General Erik Kurilla is in Israel "to meet with key IDF leadership... (and) discuss the current security threats in the region," Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder told journalists.

Ryder said the trip was moved up from a previously scheduled date "due to recent developments."

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and will be punished," while US President Joe Biden pledged "ironclad" support for its top regional ally.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin meanwhile spoke Thursday with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant, who told the Pentagon chief that a "direct Iranian attack will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran."

The two "discussed readiness for an Iranian attack against the state of Israel," the country's defense ministry said in a statement, adding that Gallant "emphasized that the state of Israel will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory."

The Pentagon also released a statement on the call, saying Austin spoke with Gallant to "reiterate ironclad US support for Israel's defense in the face of growing threats from Iran and its regional proxies."

"Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full US support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened," it said.
Serbia eyes French fighter jets to boost its military



Belgrade, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Serbia's president is confident his country will soon buy French fighter jets, the latest foray in a surge of arms deals with Europe, China and Russia made possibly by a tripling of Belgrade's military budget in the past decade.

"All European countries are arming themselves, and we must do the same," President Aleksandar Vucic said in March.

"Even much more than the others, to stay intact and be able to dissuade possible aggressors," he said.

Serbia has continued to purchase weapons from China and Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

In February, the Serbian president proudly presented his latest acquisitions, Russia's Repellent anti-drone system as well as Chinese drones.

He said Serbia would start producing its own explosive drones by the end of the year.

"Serbia acquires weapons and military equipment both from the East and the West," the country's defence ministry told AFP in March, responding to a question about its purchases.

Belgrade is "opting for those whose characteristics will improve the capabilities of the Serbian armed forces", it said.



- 'Ridiculous' -



Serbia's annual military budget has tripled in the past decade to reach 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion).

The amount exceeds the combined budgets of the other five Western Balkan nations -- Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Macedonia and Montenegro.

From 2014 until this year, Serbia spent 2.7 billion euros ($2.9 billion) on arms purchases. They included the 2019 acquisition of China's FK-3 air-defence system as well as Russian Mi-17 and Mi-35 helicopters and Pantsir anti-aircraft systems.

In February, Vucic hinted that Serbia was ready to invest three billion euros for a possible purchase of French Rafale planes.

During a visit to Paris earlier this week he went even further.

"I believe we have reached concrete agreements concerning the purchase of Rafales," he said.

"I expect the contract to be signed within the next two months, in the presence of the French president, which is extremely important for our country."

Dassault Aviation, which makes the planes, refused to comment Monday on a possible sale of its jets to Serbia.

The sale would raise questions, given Vucic's closeness to Russia.

"It would be ridiculous for Paris, on the one hand, to mention sending troops to Ukraine, and on the other, to sell an extremely sophisticated weapon to one of Russia's closest allies", political scientist Jasmin Mujanovic said.

Since Russia's aggression on Ukraine in February 2022, Belgrade has not joined any sanctions against Russia.

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic visited Moscow in late March, an opportunity, according to Belgrade, to improve the "traditionally friendly ties between Serbia and Russia".

The sale of Rafales to a Russian ally "would be worrying, as it would allow information to leak to China and Russia", Mujanovic told AFP.

The fighter jet, which has been operational since 2004 and is scheduled to fly until 2060s, is the French defence industry's export spearhead.

Seven countries -- Egypt, Qatar, India, Greece, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates and Croatia -- either fly Rafales or have signed deals to acquire them.



- Kosovo intimidation? -



According to the Serbian defence white paper published last year, the "biggest security challenge" for the country is Kosovo, its former province that proclaimed independence in 2008, a decade after a war that claimed 13,000 lives.

If the Rafale deal goes ahead "you could see French fighter jets used to intimidate Kosovo," Mujanovic said.

Elsewhere in Serbia's neighbourhood, Albania inaugurated a NATO-backed airbase in March, while Croatia bought 12 used Rafale planes and is considering reintroducing compulsory military service. Both Albania and Croatia are NATO members.

Kosovo meanwhile has announced a $75 million deal for US Javelin anti-tank missiles.

Adnan Cerimagic, a researcher with the European Stability Initiative (ESI) think-tank, pointed to the "European, even global, trend towards increasing military capacities" and the "dominant narrative in Serbia, which speaks of the duty to prepare for conflict".

"Difficult days lie ahead for Serbia," Vucic wrote in a viral Instagram post on March 26, citing "news that directly threatens our vital national interests", without elaborating.

"It will be difficult. We will fight. Serbia will win," the president wrote.

bur-cbo/ljv/gv




Russian air defence system, trainers arrive in Niger



Niamey, Niger, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Russian military instructors have arrived in Niger with an air defence system and other equipment as part of the West African nation's deepening security ties with Moscow, state television announced late Thursday.

Niger's military government agreed in January to step up military cooperation with Russia, after expelling French forces that were helping fight jihadist rebellions in several Sahel nations.

The Tele Sahel broadcaster showed a Russia transport plane arriving at Niamey airport on Wednesday night. It said "the latest military equipment and military instructors from the Russian defence ministry" had arrived.

Russia will help "install an air defence system ... to ensure complete control of our airspace", the report said.

One instructor was quoted as saying that "We are here to train the Niger army and help it use the equipment that has just arrived. The equipment is for different military specialities."

The head of Niger's military government, General Abdourahamane Tiani, spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 26.

The two leaders discussed security cooperation as well as "global strategic cooperation" against "current threats", authorities said at the time, without elaborating.

Niger, one of the world's poorest countries, had been a frontline partner of the West in battling jihadists in the Sahel but has turned to Russia since the elected president was ousted last year.

Niger has also joined neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso -- also ruled by military leaders after coups -- to create a joint force to battle long-running jihadist insurgencies.

The United States has some 1,000 troops in Niger though their movements have been limited since the coup and Washington has curbed assistance to the government.
Russian air defence system, trainers arrive in Niger



Niamey, Niger, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Russian military instructors have arrived in Niger with an air defence system and other equipment as part of the West African nation's deepening security ties with Moscow, state television announced late on Thursday.

Niger's military government agreed in January to step up security cooperation with Russia, after expelling French forces that were helping fight jihadist rebellions in several Sahel nations.

On Friday, African Corps -- seen as the successor of Russia's Wagner mercenary group in Africa -- confirmed it had arrived in Niger.

The Tele Sahel broadcaster showed a Russian transport plane arriving at Niamey airport on Wednesday night.

It said "the latest military equipment and military instructors from the Russian defence ministry" had arrived.

Russia will help "install an air defence system... to ensure complete control of our airspace", the report said.

One instructor was quoted as saying that "We are here to train the Niger army and help it use the equipment that has just arrived. The equipment is for different military specialities."

"The first flight of African Corps troops and volunteers has arrived in Niger," the group wrote on Telegram.

The Wagner mercenary group had unofficially served the Kremlin's aims in Africa since the 2010s.

Rebranded African Corps and reorganised following the August 2023 death of its founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in a mysterious plane crash, the group is now under the Kremlin's umbrella, signalling a formal acknowledgement of Russia's role in the Sahel.

The head of Niger's military government, General Abdourahamane Tiani, spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 26.

The two leaders discussed security cooperation as well as "global strategic cooperation" against "current threats", authorities said at the time, without elaborating.

Niger, one of the world's poorest countries, had been a frontline partner of the West in battling jihadists in the Sahel but has turned to Russia since the elected president was ousted last July.

Niger has also joined neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso -- also ruled by military leaders after coups -- to create a joint force to battle long-running jihadist insurgencies.

The junta kicked out forces from former colonial power France, whose 1,500 troops had left Niger by the end of last year.

The military also announced it was breaking off a 2012 agreement with the United States, which has built a desert drone base at a cost of $100 million in northern Niger and has some 1,000 troops in the country.
Mali PM says elections will only happen once stabilised



Bamako, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Mali's ruling junta will only organise elections to hand back power to civilians once the security situation has been completely stabilised, the military-appointed prime minister has said.

The West African country has been ruled by juntas since back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021, with the worsening security situation aggravated by armed jihadist and separatist groups.

"The stabilisation phase must reach a point of no return, a point that is sufficiently stable to be able to organise elections," said prime minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga, without giving a date, during an address broadcast on state television and social media late Thursday.

The military authorities have faced domestic criticism after failing to honour a commitment to hand back power to civilians by March 26, 2024, as promised under pressure from regional bloc ECOWAS.

Maiga said that those within the country calling for elections to be held as soon as possible were serving the interests of the "enemies of Mali" and denounced "democratic naivety".

The prime minister also sought to justify the junta's move on Wednesday to suspend the activities of political parties, marking the latest crackdown on dissent.

He said the state had regained control of its entire territory since ending its alliance with former colonial power France and the European Union in 2022, before forging closer ties with Russia.

But he added that stability would only be possible after the end of a national dialogue launched on December 31 by the head of the junta, Colonel Assimi Goita.
Defence minister says Israel 'shoulder to shoulder' with US on Iran



Jerusalem, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said Friday that Israel and the United States were "shoulder to shoulder" in facing the threat from Iran, after talks with US Central Command chief Michael Kurilla.

"Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true -- they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties", Gallant said, after the two discussed Iran's threats of retaliation for a deadly air strike on its consulate in Syria widely blamed on Israel.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder," Gallant said, adding: "We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond."

Fears that Iran could soon launch a retaliatory attack spurred France to recommend on Friday that its citizens avoid travelling to the region.

Israel said it was strengthening its air defences and pausing leave for combat units following the April 1 air strike that killed seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards, two of them generals.

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said Thursday that Iran felt it had no choice but to respond to the deadly attack on its diplomatic mission after the UN Security Council failed to take action.

US President Joe Biden said Wednesday that Iran was "threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel," and pledged "ironclad" support for its top regional ally despite diplomatic tensions over Israel's conduct of the Gaza war.
Mali PM says elections will only happen once stabilised



Bamako, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Mali's ruling junta will only organise elections to hand back power to civilians once the security situation has been completely stabilised, the military-appointed prime minister has said.

The West African nation has been ruled by juntas since back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021, with the worsening security situation aggravated by armed jihadist and separatist groups.

"The stabilisation phase must reach a point of no return, a point that is sufficiently stable to be able to organise elections," said prime minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga, without giving a date, during an address broadcast on state television and social media late Thursday.

Maiga is the first senior official to give even a vague outline of a power transfer since the military authorities failed to honour a commitment to leave by March 26, 2024.

Under pressure from regional bloc ECOWAS, the junta had promised to organise presidential elections in February and hand over power by the end of March, but drew domestic criticism after failing to do so.

The junta's ruling on Wednesday to indefinitely suspend the activities of political parties in the name of maintaining public order refuelled the outcry.

It was further fuelled a day later with a ban on media coverage of political parties, marking the latest crackdown on dissent.

The prime minister sought to justify the measures by saying that elections would be held once the security situation had been fully stabilised.

He said the state had regained control of its entire territory since ending its alliance with former colonial power France and the European Union in 2022, before forging closer ties with Russia.

But he added that stability would only be possible after the end of a national dialogue launched on December 31 by the head of the junta, Colonel Assimi Goita.

After local and regional talks, a national-level dialogue is due to begin from May 6, but it is not known how long it will take to implement the conclusions.



- 'Aggravate tensions' -



The success of the dialogue and "the attainment of a level of stabilisation of the country's sovereignty are the prerequisite conditions for setting the date for an election," Maiga said.

The precarious security situation has regularly been used as an argument by those supporting the continuation of military rule.

But the junta last June held a referendum to bring in a new constitution, with 97 percent of votes cast in favour, according to the electoral authority.

Since August 2020, Mali's opposition has been largely muzzled by legal woes, the dissolution of organisations, restrictions on press freedom and calls for national unity.

Many opponents, journalists and human rights advocates have been convicted, harassed or driven into exile.

But in a rare joint statement on March 31, a number of major political parties and civil groups decried the "legal and institutional vacuum" left by the failure to hand back power to civilians on March 26.

They called for a "rapid and inclusive dialogue" to ensure that the presidential election is held "as soon as possible".

One of Mali's main parties, Adema, on Friday said it would boycott the junta's dialogue and described the suspension of political activities as "illegal".

Human Rights Watch urged the military government to "immediately" reverse the decision, which it said violated both Malian and international law in the junta's "relentless crackdown on peaceful opposition and dissent".

The suspension of party activities "can only aggravate tensions and further compromise Mali's already fragile stability," said former prime minister Boubou Cisse in a message sent to AFP, expressing concern about "the coming disaster".

Maiga said that those within the country calling for elections to be held as soon as possible were serving the interests of the "enemies of Mali" and denounced "democratic naivety".
US says China helping Moscow in biggest defense expansion since Soviet era



Washington, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



China is helping Russia undertake its biggest military expansion since Soviet times, US officials said Friday, stepping up public pressure as concerns rise over Ukraine.

US officials are hoping the release of the intelligence will encourage European allies to press China, as Chancellor Olaf Scholz heads to Beijing this weekend and Group of Seven foreign ministers meet next week in Italy.

Unveiling US findings, officials said China was helping Russia on a range of areas including the joint production of drones, space-based capabilities and machine-tool exports vital for producing ballistic missiles.

China has been the key factor in revitalizing Russia's defense industrial base "which had otherwise suffered significant setbacks" since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a senior US official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

"Russia is undertaking its most ambitious defense expansion since the Soviet era and on a faster timeline than we believed possible early on in this conflict," the official said.

"Our view is that one of the most game-changing moves available to us at this time to support Ukraine is to persuade the PRC to stop helping Russia reconstitute its military industrial base," the official said, referring to the People's Republic of China.

"Russia would struggle to sustain its war effort without PRC inputs," he said.

US officials said that China provided more than 70 percent of the $900 million in machine tools -- likely used to build ballistic missiles -- imported in the last quarter of 2023 by Russia.

US officials also said that 90 percent of Russia's microelectronics imports -- used to produce missiles, tanks and aircraft -- came from China last year.



- China walks fine line -



The United States has repeatedly warned China against supporting Russia and both Chinese and US officials say Beijing has stopped short of directly providing weapons to Russia, which has turned to heavily sanctioned North Korea and Iran to replenish arms supply.

US officials believe that China, anxious after its Russian allies' early setbacks on the battlefield, has instead focused on sending material that ostensibly has non-military uses.

President Joe Biden's administration is hoping that European powers can make the difference in persuading China, which is facing economic headwinds and is sensitive about trade pressure.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to make the case on China's ties with Russia as he meets top diplomats of other industrial democracies at the G7 talks in Capri, Italy.

Blinken is also planning a visit in the coming weeks to China, on the heels of a trip by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.

The administration hopes that such dialogue, including a recent telephone call between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, can help contain tensions between the world's two largest economies but US officials have stressed they will still press on concerns.

Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said this week that Europe's stability was the top interest historically of the United States and that it would hold China accountable if Russia makes gains.

Ukraine has suffered its first battlefield setbacks in months as its forces ration ammunition, with the United States failing to authorize new support due to a deadlock in the Republican-led House of Representatives.
Russia summons French ambassador over minister's 'unacceptable' comments



Moscow, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Russia on Friday summoned the French ambassador to Moscow following "unacceptable" comments by French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, the Russian foreign ministry said.

Sejourne on Monday said that France had no interest in talking to the Kremlin, a few days after a telephone conversation between Russian and French defense ministers ended in divergent accounts.

French ambassador Pierre Levy "was informed about the unacceptable character of such statements, which have nothing to do with reality," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement, denouncing a "deliberate act" that "aimed to undermine the possibility of any dialogue between the two countries".

A French diplomatic source told AFP on Friday: "The Russian ministry, as usual, does not accept that we correct its lies.

"The minister recalled the reality of the exchanges and the Russian authorities' attempt at manipulation following the call from the armed forces minister."

It is the latest in series of spats between the two countries, whose relations have deteriorated since the start of the year, against the backdrop of the prolonged conflict in Ukraine.

After a conversation between the two countries' defence ministers on April 3, Russia said it "hoped" that the French secret services were not involved in the Moscow concert hall attack claimed by Islamic State group, which killed 144 people on March 22.

France had initiated the meeting in a bid to pass on "useful information" to Russia about the attack.

French president Emmanuel Macron reacted angrily to the Russian suggestion, denouncing "threatening" comments.

French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu told television station LCI late Friday that the anti-terrorist cooperation between the two countries "is not suspended" but "it is not working in the partnership manner that it should."

He said France would continue to speak with Russia "when it is useful. It is called defending the interests of France."

In January, Russia claimed to have killed 60 French "mercenaries" in Kharkiv, in northeast Ukraine, while Paris denounced "a coordinated manoeuvre" of disinformation emanating from Moscow.

Russia also announced that it had summoned Slovenian ambassador Darja Bavdaz Kuret on Friday to notify her of the expulsion of a Slovenian diplomat "in return" for a similar decision taken by Ljubljana in March against a Russian representative.

On Thursday, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that it had done the same with Austrian ambassador Werner Almhofer following the expulsion of two Russian diplomats by Vienna. Moscow expelled an Austrian diplomat in response.
Ukrainian fighter pilots train in France during European training drive



Paris, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Future Ukrainian fighter pilots likely to fly American F-16 aircraft are receiving their initial training in the south of France with the French Air Force, the French defence minister said on Friday, amid a European training push.

The pilots are receiving "general training on the Alpha Jet (a Franco-German military aircraft), which enables Ukrainian pilots to acquire the fundamentals of flying a fighter jet," Sebastien Lecornu said in an interview with the newspaper Ouest France.

Other countries including the Netherlands, Denmark and Romania are seeking to help Ukraine train its F-16 pilots following the green light given by the United States.

A dozen Ukrainians, some of whom have received prior training in Britain, are currently also undergoing "advanced training" for "several months" in an undisclosed location to learn how to fly fighter jets, according to a military source.

They will then join specific F-16 training programmes in countries allied with Ukraine that have the aircraft, while Kyiv awaits their delivery, the same source added. France's military does not use the F-16.

Lecornu pointed out on Friday that the French armed forces had succeeded in adapting AASM air-to-ground guided bombs on Soviet-class aircraft held by the Ukrainians.

"We have taken the lead with these AASM bombs to be able to supply Ukraine with them", Lecornu said.

Since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, France has trained 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers on its own territory and in Poland.
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Executives at Philippine broadband provider Converge ICT Solutions have reportedly said that two major international subsea cable networks its participating in are behind schedule and may not be completed until next year.

According to media reports, the Bifrost Cable System and the South-East Asia Hainan-Hong Kong Express Cable System (SEA H2X)  which were originally scheduled to be finished this year  are taking longer to roll out than expected.

Business World reports that Converge CEO Dennis Anthony H. Uy said the company has had trouble acquiring the necessary permits in places like Indonesia, while Converge chief operations officer Jesus Romero said that rough weather conditions were also a factor.

Romero said the worst-case scenario is that the cables will be finished by the first quarter of 2025, adding that it could be late this year or early next year, the report said.

The Bifrost cable  designed with a capacity of 10.4 Tbps  aims to connect Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Guam, Mexico and California over a total span of 19,900 km, including branches. The 5,000-km SEA H2X project  with a design capacity of 160 Tbps  will connect Hainan, China, and Hong Kong SAR with the Philippines, Thailand, East Malaysia and Singapore, with options to extend to Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and the Malaysian peninsula.

Converge is a consortium partner in SEA H2X, along with China Mobile International, China Unicom Global, and PP Telecom. Converge joined Bifrost in 2021 after striking a deal to acquire an Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU) from Keppel Midgard Holdings (KMH) for one fibre pair on the system. KMH and Converge also agreed to jointly develop the Bifrost branch that will land in Davao, for which Converge also has an IRU.
It certainly paints a bleak picture of things to come. Throughout this period, there have been repeated calls for the government or regulator to step in and revitalise public markets. And yet no one seems to want to address the elephant in the room. That the City and companies themselves might be the ones that need to change (as well). Listed companies need to stop blaming the government or Brexit for low valuations and instead look at their own practices with a clear, unbiased eye.
It has previously said that, adjusting for inflation, the average total cost of a settled car claim has increased by 23% from 3,500 in 2014 to 4,300 in 2023. Over the same period, also adjusted for inflation, the average premium rose by 8%, from 505 to 543, according to the ABIs figures.
It would empower and embolden the anti-net zero, flat earth brigade across the world, and people have to realise that because the Tories have changed the rules in the way in which people vote in this election. You only get one vote, and a vote for anyone other than Sadiq risks letting Susan Hall in by the back door.
This week saw a potentially highly significant signing ceremony take place when representatives of Iraqs Informatics and Telecommunications Public Company (ITPC) and the Kuwaiti service provider Zajil Telecom signed a strategic collaboration agreement to create a communications route from the Gulf to Europe.

The aim is to create an international telecommunications corridor to Europe via Iraq, passing through Turkey. As well as strengthening Iraqs strategic position in the region, it will offer an alternative to routes that pass through the Red Sea.

The Iraqi Minister of Communications, Hiyam Al-Yasiri, says that the agreement is the first of several projects for underwater and transit cables, aiming to create a communication flow from the Gulf States, South and West Asia up to the European continent via Iraqi land and sea ports.

This plan, and other initiatives, will, it is hoped, turn Iraq into a secure land corridor that may rival the regions only international maritime route that goes via the Suez Canal.

Among other planned cable initiatives, initial approvals have been granted to connect the UAE to Al-Faw in southern Iraq. In addition Al-Yasiri said that a third cable would connect Saudi Arabia to Iraq soon. 2Africa is also expected to land in Iraq at the Al-Faw station this year.

Al-Faw is already a landing destination for the the FALCON and the GIBCS MENA subsea cables. Further agreements are expected to better connect Iraq to other Gulf states such as Oman and Bahrain.

The Capacity website points out this news comes as disruption to Red Sea subsea cables has highlighted the importance of redundant routes that avoid the geopolitical instability around the Gulf of Aden and through the Red Sea.
He said evidence given to the inquest that intelligence given to the RUC about the identity of those involved in the attack suggested it would have been of limited value as most were resident south of the border.
The scale of the loss of life and the naked sectarian motivation of the killers, who ordered the only Catholic on the work minibus to run away, has led Kingsmill to be remembered as one of the most savage atrocities committed during the Troubles.
Samoas Office of the Regulator (OOTR) has reportedly placed a temporary ban on imports of Starlink kits until SpaceXs application for a licence to offer LEO satellite broadband services to consumers in Samoa is approved.

According to a report in the Samoa Observer, the OOTR issued the ban following reports that a number of residents have purchased Starlink services via overseas markets like Australia and New Zealand, and brought Starlink kits into Samoa to use the service at home or at their business.

People who import Starlink units generally say they do so because its cheaper, faster and available compared to local broadband services, the report said.

Regulator Lematua Gisa Fuatai Purcell said that anyone found to be bringing Starlink kits into Samoa will have their equipment confiscated at the border. For people who imported Starlink kits prior to the ban for business purposes, they will be required to bring them to the OOTR for type approval, after which theyll be given a licence to use the kit for business for a period of 12 months, the report said.

Part of the problem also lies in last months news that Starlink received clearance from the cabinet last month to operate in the country.

According to another report from Talamua Online News, OOTR held a public forum earlier this week clarifying that Starlinks clearance from the cabinet to operate in Samoa is only to provide connectivity for healthcare and education facilities via a partnership with local service provider Bluwave Wireless.

Purcell confirmed that SpaceX has submitted an application for a license to operate in Samoa, and that the application is being processed and likely to be approved, the report added. She also said Starlink had selected Bluwave as its local agent for other satellite services beyond the healthcare and education sector.

Until that happens, use of Starlink services by individuals remains illegal in Samoa. Anyone who doesnt being their kits in for type approval and continues to use them before Starlink is officially licenced to offer services in Samoa will face prosecution, the report said.
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) recalls the recommendation addressed to Romanian citizens to avoid any travel to the State of Israel, Palestine, the Lebanese Republic and the Islamic Republic of Iran, in the context of security developments in the region.

At the same time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends to Romanian citizens who are in the territories of the State of Israel, Palestine, the Republic of Lebanon and Iran to exercise caution, to inform themselves from official sources about security developments and to strictly comply with any recommendations or instructions of the local authorities.

Details about the travel warnings for these states are available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs - https://www.mae.ro/travel-alerts.

In case they are faced with an emergency situation, Romanian citizens have at their disposal the following contact details of diplomatic missions and consular offices of Romania in these states: for the State of Israel +972 54 564 3279 (Embassy of Romania in Tel Aviv) or + 972 543 998 038 (Consulate General of Romania in Haifa); for Palestine +970 59 201 3761; for the Lebanese Republic +961 76 775 503; for the Islamic Republic of Iran +98 21 7764 7570.
MEP Corina Cretu said on Friday that important healthcare investments have been made in Romania on European funds, but, unfortunately, the objective under Operational Programme Regional Development (ROP) for the construction of three regional emergency hospitals is much delayed.

"Unfortunately, the objective of Operational Programme Regional Development, Priority Axis 14 - the construction of three regional emergency hospitals in less developed regions (Iasi, Craiova, Cluj-Napoca), in order to provide access to improved healthcare services to over 270,000 people by 2023 is much delayed. At the time of signing this programme, then Prime Minister Victor Ponta said that the construction of the three regional hospitals in Iasi, Cluj and Craiova was a priority objective of the Romanian government. Then, over the years, we raised numerous alarms over the incomprehensible delay in achieving those goals," Cretu wrote in a social media post.

She added that when she left the position of European commissioner, all the documentation for regional hospitals had been completed.

"At the request of the Romanian government in 2019, the European Commission approved phasing in these projects, their actual implementation from the 2021-2027 budget. After the establishment of the locations by the Romanian governments, in 2018 we conducted feasibility studies with the European Investment Bank. Since then, things have stalled. The Romanian government at that time made a request to the European Commission in 2019 that the amounts for the construction of hospitals be moved for the financial year 2021-2027. I approved the request half-heartedly, because in 2015, when I signed for the three hospitals, I hoped to participate in the inauguration by the end of my tenure. Mr Rafila soon said that work would start by the middle of this year. As far as I know, Iasi is the most advanced."

Cretu also said that there are three regional hospitals with about 900-1,000 beds each, which will serve Moldavia, Transylvania and Oltenia.

There are now additional resources under the Recovery and Resilience Facility and that, on a budget of EUR 5.3 billion for 2021-2027, the EU Health Programme provides unprecedented financial support for such investments.

She said that in recent years she warned that healthcare has become one of the great priorities of European citizens and that she regrets that the alarms have not been taken more seriously by Romania.
The powder factory that will be built in Romania, as part of a project with the German group Rheinmetall, will be, from the point of view of technology, one of the most efficient in the world, on Friday said, during a working visit to the city Cugir, the minister of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, Stefan Radu Oprea.

"We are in a project with the German company Rheinmetall and ROMARM. We were selected by the European Commission within the ASAP program, in the program for the production of ammunition and powders. We are in the full process of making the contract possible," said the minister.

Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu had announced, on March 17, that Romania will have a modern powder factory for ammunition, in which the European Union will also be a partner.
DeAnthony Henderson, a Family Care Health Community, health worker and substance use specialist, has been named 2024 Urban Community Health Worker of the Year.

A Cahokia High School graduate, Henderson went to Langston University in Oklahoma where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 2015.

Henderson works with several organizations that are focused on a healthcare and treatment system that ends punitive and coercive approaches that disproportionately harm Black people and instead prioritize culturally appropriate services that center on Black drug users agency, autonomy, and safety.
GRANITE CITY  U.S. Steel shareholders voted overwhelmingly in favor of the companys proposed sale to Nippon Steel Corporation, according to preliminary tallies released Friday.

While the shareholder votes are nonbinding, a no would have set another roadblock in U.S. Steels path toward a sale to Nippon. The transaction already faces union opposition, a federal review and political criticism during an election year.

U.S. Steel began reviewing bids last year, and in December announced plans to sell for $14.1 billion to Tokyo-based Nippon.

The proposed sale raised further uncertainty for the companys 128-year-old mill in Granite City, where 850 people work. With the sites last remaining blast furnace idled, hundreds remain on layoff.

The company said Friday that more than 98% of shares voted at its annual stockholder meeting  representing about 71% of the companys shares  voted for the transaction.

President and CEO David Burritt called the endorsement an important milestone for the company. U.S. Steel will release the official results in regulatory filings, when it has reached a final tally.

Two influential proxy advisory firms  Institutional Shareholder Services and Glass Lewis  had recommended that investors approve the deal.

The United Steelworkers union has firmly opposed the deal with Nippon. The guild has instead thrown its weight behind an offer from the Ohio-based steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs. U.S. Steel rejected that proposal, and said Cleveland-Cliffs pushed to reach a deal without allowing enough due diligence.

National union officials released a memo to members Friday promising that the shareholder vote isnt the end of the story. The decision, they said, isnt solely in the hands of U.S. Steel shareholders and executives.

The companies have said U.S. Steel will continue to operate under its brand name and will keep its headquarters in Pittsburgh. Nippon executives have said publicly that they dont expect the acquisition would lead to job cuts, and that they would not shift American jobs or production overseas.
ST. LOUIS  If a tree falls in Forest Park, someone will likely hear or even see it. Thats because every square foot of the urban oasis  one of the largest, most visited, best-funded in the country  is accounted for.

Still, the 1,371-acre park isnt fully understood.

A team of highly educated scientists, on the hunt for a new predator in town, has been probing the southwest corner for months. Theyve been quiet about the effort. They dont want curious humans fouling the odors of roadkill and raw chicken emanating from their trap in the woods.

Keep your eyes open, wildlife veterinarian Sharon Deem announced during an evening outing on Feb. 21 to the secret spot. You might see a coyote.

Deem, 60, director of the St. Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, has tracked wild elephants in Africa in hopes of protecting the species from decline. She spent three years following giant tortoises around the Galapagos Islands. In Bolivia, she saved river dolphins from receding waters and commercial agriculture development.

Now, she walks to the job site for the Forest Park Living Lab coyote project.

An occasional coyote used to amble down the MetroLink tracks, maybe duck its narrow head into the park for a night or two, then move on. These days, there are more of them. Coyotes have been reported anywhere from Steinberg Skating Rink to Kennedy Forest to Art Hill.

And some seem to be staying longer. A litter of five, caught on camera, was born last spring. One, found abandoned, had canine distemper virus and died. A car fatally hit a second young coyote on Lindell Boulevard. Its unclear if the others survived and stuck around to repopulate, but distinctive, high-pitched yipping has been heard.

They respond to the sirens, which is very cool, said Stella Uiterwaal, 27, a postdoctoral researcher at Washington University, heavily involved in the coyote project.

The team of scientists wants to know how healthy the animals are, where they go and hunt or scavenge for food. A lot of effort and resources are spent trying to restore the natural areas of the park. Are coyotes hanging out there to prey on rodents, raccoons and some of the new turkeys and deer? Or are they drawn to places where there is trash?

What are these coyotes telling us about the natural habitat? Uiterwaal asks.

To work toward getting answers, they decided two coyotes needed to be safely caught and anesthetized with enough time to gather samples and attach GPS collars around their necks. No small task, as it turns out.

This past winter, they first set out a roughly 3 feet by 8 feet rectangular metal trap in the woods and some stationary cameras to monitor it from a distance. They left raw chicken a few feet away to help draw the coyotes in and get comfortable seeing the trap. Then they baited inside it.

After a few tries, a coyote took the chicken and fled. The team said they were even more excited once coyotes started peeking into the trap with regularity and walking calmly through the open doors.

The trap needed to be baited every night so the coyotes would expect food to be there.

During the Feb. 21 outing, Uiterwaal climbed through the trap wearing blue latex gloves. She hung a raw chicken leg above an old opossum carcass scooped up from a park roadway. Then she and Deem walked away.

They didnt arm the trap because the special collars hadnt yet arrived by mail. It was another practice run to measure when and if a coyote ate the chicken. Sometimes it took just 15 minutes. Other times two hours. Or not at all.

Even though coyotes increasingly thrive in cities, the animals are sensitive to human activity. The scientists had the best results when Uiterwaal baited the trap.

They like her smell, weve decided, Deem said.

But there were lots of competing smells and noises to potentially scare the animals off. Millions of people visit the park each year. About 30 yards from the trap, a forgotten to-go cup of coffee sat on a bench. A shirtless man ran on a nearby trail. Others walked their dogs.

Human activity died off after the sun sank. Soon, the zoo parking lot sat empty and a big moon rose into the sky. On the south facade of the art museum, lights illuminated an inscription: Art still has truth. Take refuge there.

Creatures, large and small, took refuge in the dark forest.

The crunch of something walking through the leaves could be heard over the rumble of traffic on Highway 40. It was a deer, followed by another, and another, and another. A large object, about the size of a dog, darted by, too far away to identify.

Around the same time, at nearby Pat Connolly Tavern, Charles Walsh bellied up for a quick pint of Urban Chestnut Forest Park Pilsner. The retired high school environmental science teacher has seen the park transformed since the 1980s.

The trails are fantastic, said Walsh, 72. Its home for me. Its in top, top shape.

He said he walks the park perimeter several times a week and hadnt spotted any coyotes.

I am assuming they are everywhere, he said. Their territory keeps getting torn down.

That night, no coyotes showed up for a practice run through the open trap. One did the next, though, just 25 minutes after Uiterwaal hung the raw chicken.

Natures balance

Coyotes, icons of the West and Saturday morning cartoons, have been expanding their range since the early 1900s. They are now found across country. The loss of wolves and natural habitat are key factors.

So is coyote versatility.

They are seeing cities as suitable space where they can find what they need and avoid competition from other territory holders, said Javier Monzon, who studies coyote genetics and eating habits at Pepperdine University in California.

While urbanization has a negative effect on the genetic diversity of coyotes, compared to coyotes living in more rural areas, he said, the omnivores will eat almost anything and can live on a much smaller swath of terrain than other predators such as mountain lions. He said the average home range of coyotes he studied in Los Angeles was about 5 square kilometers.

They tend to do well because they are never picky, he said.

By now, theyre frequenting New York Citys Central Park and the Bronx. One ventured inside a Chicago Loop sandwich shop and became a momentary media sensation.

A Denver study signals that coyotes may be bolder in urban areas. In February, a coyote reportedly bit three children in an Arlington, Texas, park before being captured.

But wildlife experts stress that coyote attacks are extremely rare.

Carol Mundy, a naturalist in Cincinnati, told a group of concerned residents that shed be much more concerned about dogs running around off leash than coyotes  even if they can easily climb a 5-foot-tall fence and run 40 mph.

They really dont want to be interrupting our daily lives, Mundy told the group. Its just like any other neighbor. Sometimes there are conflicts.

Amy Witt, park ecologist for Forest Park Forever, the $200 million nonprofit that works in partnership with the city, said no attacks have been reported. They received calls, mainly from people walking their dogs.

A coyote existing is not an imminent threat, said Witt, 38.

At least not to humans. She wonders if coyotes are the reason why she hasnt seen any fox kits in the park in the past five years. Meanwhile, there are more wild turkey and deer, which damage tree saplings and like to eat tulip bulbs.

Coyotes are making those deer keep moving, Witt said. I have seen them chasing them a couple times.

Shed like to say that restoration efforts drew coyotes to the park, but its uncertain.

Somehow there is food being supplied to create an ecosystem that is able to support a higher tier of predator, she said.

Great teeth

The team of scientists with Forest Park Living Lab were eager to start figuring out the coyote mystery sooner by trapping two of them, but the GPS collars got stuck on back order. The longer they waited, the closer they came to the birth of an untold number of spring bunnies that are perhaps more fun for a coyote to eat than raw chicken dangling from hard wire.

On the night of March 20, they were ready to at least try.

At 7:15 p.m., Uiterwaal hung the bait as usual, only this time she armed the trap and retreated to a zoo employee break room to monitor camera footage synced with her cellphone. There, she united with other team members who signed up for the mission.

Deem had red darts drawn, each with enough drugs for about 40 minutes of anesthesia.

Jamie Palmer, a wildlife biologist at the zoo with an expertise in reptiles, was ready to swab the coyotes nose, mouth, eyes and rectum and collect other health data, while Deems husband, Stephen Blake, a movement ecologist at St. Louis University, would jot it all down on a clipboard.

They were prepared to wait hours or even go home empty-handed, but the prep work quickly paid off. At 8 p.m. Uiterwaals cellphone pinged with fresh images. A smile spread across her face.

The trap is closed, she said.

Lets go, said Deem.

They grabbed their gear. Within four minutes, Deem was in the woods. She darted the coyote and waited in silence for a few minutes before pulling the unconscious animal from the trap.

At 8:16, they carried it out of the dark on tarp and laid it on the ground of a lighted workstation in the zoo maintenance yard. It was the moment the team had been preparing for and the coyotes ragged appearance struck them hard.

Severe mange made it look more like a hyena. Other than on the head and neck, the animals body was mainly hairless.

Bloody hell, said Blake, 58, originally from England.

Urgent processing began, first with a scale.

The young adult male weighed 31 pounds. They hooked up a device to his tongue that beeped. His heart rate was initially a little high, but all was fine.

Palmer swabbed the fluids, collected fur and other samples. Deem drew a few vials of blood. She used a topical to treat the mange and two hot spot skin wounds, apparently from deep, persistent itching.

Poor you, said Deem.

Uiterwaal bolted on the bulky GPS tracking collar and measured body length. Eyes, ears, and nostrils were fine.

Deem ran her hands over the lean animals notably swollen abdomen. Not to worry, hed likely eaten a huge meal.

Its got some good-looking teeth, said Blake.

At 8:42 p.m., approaching the 40-minute mark, Deem injected the coyote with an antidote. They put him in a covered dog crate, placed it in a heated room for a few hours to recover and regain consciousness.

All clear shortly after 1 a.m., they took the crate by pickup truck to a clearing along John F. Kennedy Trail. They opened the crate. The coyote waited, perhaps to listen, then shot out with a bang. He zigzagged like a ricochet bullet, dashing into the dark woods.

The team celebrated a successful mission, even if went differently than expected.

Uiterwaal had been admiring images from the stationary cameras of what looked like healthy and hairy coyotes. She wants to know if and where they are staying in Forest Park.

The near-hairless fella theyd just caught and released with a $1,575 collar was likely a long-range drifter.

I guess well see, Uiterwaal said.

City living

Some of the various animals the Forest Park Living Lab tracks with electronic devices are named after elements found in nature.

Mercury, a barred owl, lives in the eastern half of Kennedy Forest. Copper the red-tailed hawk flew north about 100 miles, just past the Illinois River, and went on a few other jaunts before settling, for now, in and around St. Louis University.

The first coyote is named Silver. The team of scientists is just in the beginning stages of tracking and studying him, but he seems to have already become more appealing.

He was much easier to trap than the second and final coyote, which took multiple late-night attempts until they succeeded last Monday, hours after the solar eclipse. Genetic testing is being done to see if Silver is one of the five pups born in Forest Park last spring. If thats the case, he may be a dispersing male, trying to find his place in the world.

Though Silver appeared to be just passing through, Uiterwaal wonders if hes circling back to the park.

Its been great seeing what hes doing so far, she said.

After he was released in the early hours of March 21, Silver hung low in the Dogtown neighborhood two days, then beelined northeast 2 miles, for a three-day stay in the Ville.

Later, he cut through Fairground Park and settled around Penrose, in an area with a lot of trees and overgrowth, just inside Interstate 70, before going west 4 miles, to the fancy Parkview neighborhood in University City. From there, he hit the River Des Peres and the far eastern edge of Overland, north of Olive Boulevard, just inside Interstate 170.

It seems like hes mostly moving around at night, which is probably what you would expect for an urban coyote trying to avoid people, Uiterwaal said.

Data comes in on his whereabouts about every two days. Theres also a mechanism that measures activity levels. The scientists paid an extra $400 for a feature that will free Silver from the tracking collar after one year of service. Its programmed to drop off on Feb. 28, 2025.

Will Silver make it through another winter?

Where will he go and what will he teach us?

Why does he have mange?

Does Silver know Solar, the second coyote? She appears to be healthy, young and pregnant, expected to whelp within a week or two.
Not content with having already imposed the first statewide abortion ban in America in half a century (and one of the most draconian), Missouris Republican leaders are demonstrating once again that they are nowhere near done stripping women of health care access. This time, theyre specifically targeting poor women.

They say thats not their intent, but it will be the effect of movement in Jefferson City to block Medicaid reimbursement funds from going to Planned Parenthood facilities in the state.

Planned Parenthood doesnt provide abortion services in Missouri  by state law, it cant. But its affiliation with out-of-state entities that do is being used to justify hampering low-income womens access to cancer screenings, birth control, STI testing and other crucial health services that have nothing to do with abortion.

The measure passed the state Senate Wednesday after an 11-hour filibuster by Democrats. It now returns to the House for a final vote. It is expected to pass; Gov. Mike Parson will almost certainly sign it. And health care options for thousands of women who cant afford private health insurance will be dramatically narrowed.

In floor debate, state Sen. Tracy McCreery, D-St. Louis County, accurately condemned the measure as a bizarre quest to just continue to punish Planned Parenthood. In reality, she noted, This is hurting our very own constituents.

Even from a strict anti-abortion rights standpoint, theres no rational policy value here beyond expressing legislative malice toward an organization whose name has become synonymous with abortion rights  but which actually provides much more than that to women.

Planned Parenthoods two Missouri affiliates serve some 20,000 women annually. About one in five of those women qualify for Medicaid, the state-federal health care funding system for low-income Americans.

Legislative Republicans have previously tried to use the state budgetary process to prevent Planned Parenthood from accessing Medicaid reimbursement for treating those low-income patients, but the courts have nixed that roundabout play.

The current legislation would prohibit any public funds from going to any entity affiliated with an abortion provider, even if that provider is in another state.

Unsurprisingly, the measure is spearheaded by Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman. The Arnold Republican has previously sponsored legislation seeking to make it a crime to help women leave Missouri for out-of-state abortions, to the point of censoring internet sites and billboards. Those ideas were as plainly unconstitutional as Colemans attempt to punish out-of-state doctors who treat Missouri women.

Coleman shruggingly suggested in floor debate this week that low-income women on Medicaid have plenty of other options for health care in Missouri. But in fact, theres already a shortage of such services.

As reported by the Columbia Missourian, surveys from the Missouri Family Health Council Inc. have found that appointment wait times at clinics in the state that take Medicaid patients are fairly low at Planned Parenthood  between one to three days  while those trying to get into other clinics generally wait five to seven weeks.

That Coleman and her GOP colleagues are willing to burden already-struggling poor women like this speaks to their continuing, single-minded fixation on abortion, to the point of curtailing even non-abortion health care access. The House Democratic minority is unlikely to stop the bill, but they should use the debate to spotlight just how malicious the Legislatures anti-choice brigade has become, even in victory.

Information about Missouris pending reproductive rights ballot initiative, including scheduled upcoming petition signing events, is available at moconstitutionalfreedom.org.
The Gladish Community and Cultural Center has revealed the name of its coming arts venue  the Beatriz Schweitzer Centre for the Arts.

Beatriz and Edmund Schweitzer gave the center a generous gift of $1.5 million, according to a news release from the Gladish.

Edmund Schweitzer is well-known in the community for founding Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories. Both Schweitzers have been longtime supporters of the arts, according to the release.

The gift will play a pivotal role in building the Centre for the Arts, at the Gladish, a few blocks west of N. Grand Ave. in Pullman. When constructed, it will be a state of the art cultural and performance venue, according to the release.
April 12, 2024: Russia continues to buy weapons from North Korea. This includes about 60 North Korean Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles for use against Ukraine. Ten have been used so far this year.

The Hwasong-11 is a 3.4 ton missile that carries a warhead with half a ton of explosives. Range is 450 kilometers and accuracy is nominally 100 meters. That means the missile will detonate within 100 meters of the point it was aimed at. This is adequate if the targets are civilian infrastructure.

So far Russia has used about 50 North Korean Hwasong-11s against targets in Ukraine during ten separate attacks. Russia has been unable to build enough of its own missiles to continue attacks against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. The Hwasong-11 is carried and launched from a 8x8 wheel TEL (Transport Erector Launcher) vehicle. The TEL can also be mounted, with a missile, on a railroad flat car. Russia favors the railroad TEL because Russian has an extensive railroad network and comparatively few roads capable of handling a Hwasong-11 TEL.

North Korea is making a lot of much needed money selling weapons to Russia. Hwasong-11 missiles cost about $8 million each. North Korea not only needs the money, but it also needs food for its people, many of them currently malnourished. Russia has apparently used food supplies as partial payment for the Hwasong-11 missiles.

Russia has attacked Ukraine with Hwasong-11 at least 10 times in 2024, using about 50 missiles overall. Russia uses Hwasong-11s against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.


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Not many years ago, the huge majority of Americans were aghast that some Muslim traditions practiced genital mutilation of young girls. Now we have a growing number of Americans supporting, and medically practicing, the idea that boys can become girls and girls can become boys because they feel like it, too often leading to irrevocable mutilation of their young bodies.

What happened? We have turned a blind eye to Gods word and creation and decided we have a better plan. However, what was a sin 2,000 year ago is a sin today. He hasnt updated his word, and wont accommodate todays Pharisees or our cultural wanderings.

Just a few days ago the Vatican and Pope Francis issued a strong declaration condemning transgender sex change, surrogate motherhood and abortion as grave threats to human dignity. We are called to protect our humanity, and this means, in the first place, accepting it and respecting it as it was created, the doctrine states.

America is now on a very slippery slope and every person reading this is aware of it. We need desperately to turn our boats around and sail back toward the truth. Pray that Gods kingdom would come and his will would be done, first of all in our personal lives, but also in our families, in that house across the street and in our country.

God bless the Pope.

Bill Tozer

Moscow
Key highlight:

Asias VC funding decreased by 4% compared to the previous quarter and 8% compared to last year, totaling $17.3 billion in Q1 2024, the lowest since Q4 2016.

Deal count also dropped by 8% quarter-over-quarter and 22% year-over-year, indicating challenges for startup funding.

China stood out by increasing funding by 9% quarter-over-quarter and 14% year-over-year, solidifying its dominance.

India and Israel experienced moderate gains, while Singapore saw a significant 54% decline in VC funding compared to the previous quarter.

In the first quarter of 2024, Startups in Asia bagged $17.3B in VC funding, per Crunchbase. The landscape of venture capital (VC) funding in Asia underwent significant shifts, reflecting both challenges and opportunities for startups and investors alike.

Asias VC funding, which serves as a critical financial lifeline for emerging businesses, experienced a notable dip, totaling $17.3 billion. This marked a 4% decrease from the previous quarter and an 8% decline compared to the same period last year. Such figures highlight a concerning trend, especially when considering that this amount represents the lowest funding level recorded since the final quarter of 2016.

Accompanying this decline in funding was a corresponding decrease in deal count, illustrating a broader trend of caution among investors. The number of deals dropped by 8% compared to the previous quarter and a significant 22% when compared to the same quarter in the previous year. This decrease in deal activity underscores the challenges faced by startups in securing the necessary capital to fuel their growth and innovation initiatives.

Delving deeper into the dynamics of funding stages, late-stage startups bore the brunt of the decline, experiencing a precipitous 43% drop in funding compared to the previous quarter. This decline, reaching its lowest point since mid-2014, reflects heightened investor caution and a more conservative approach to backing businesses in later stages of development. Conversely, early-stage startups witnessed a surge in funding, with a remarkable 51% increase compared to the previous quarter. Notably, Chinese startups emerged as frontrunners in this early-stage funding boom, securing the lions share of the largest funding rounds.

China, in particular, defied the prevailing downward trend, demonstrating resilience and continued dominance in the regional VC landscape. Despite the challenges faced by other Asian economies, Chinese startups managed to increase their funding by 9% compared to the previous quarter and an impressive 14% compared to the same period last year. With Chinese startups claiming the majority of the largest funding rounds in the region, China reaffirmed its position as a key player in Asias venture capital ecosystem.

However, the story was not uniformly positive across the region. While India and Israel saw moderate gains in VC funding, Singapore experienced a substantial setback, with funding plummeting by a staggering 54% from the previous quarter. This significant decline underscores the vulnerability of certain economies within the broader Asian context and highlights the need for concerted efforts to address funding challenges and support startup ecosystems.

Despite these fluctuations and challenges, Asias venture capital landscape remains characterized by resilience and dynamism. Startups and investors continue to navigate the evolving market conditions, adapting strategies and forging partnerships to drive innovation and growth across the region. As the global economy continues to evolve, the ability of Asias startup ecosystem to weather challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.

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Have you ever imagined AI streamlining legal research or empowering businesses to predict customer behavior? In todays rapidly evolving tech landscape, these advancements are becoming a reality.

Companies like Salesforce, Litera, Google Cloud, and Intel are at the forefront, introducing cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of businesses and professionals worldwide. From AI-powered legal research tools to transformative business intelligence applications, the following articles delve into the latest developments shaping the tech industry and how theyre revolutionizing the way we work.

Salesforce Extends Reach to AWS Marketplace in Australia

Salesforce (NYSE: CRM) has announced the availability of select Salesforce products on the AWS Marketplace in Australia. This move, following recent launches in the US and Europe, expands the accessibility of Salesforce solutions to customers in the Australian market.

AWS Marketplace offers a digital catalogue of thousands of software listings from independent vendors, streamlining the process of finding, testing, purchasing, and deploying software that operates on Amazon Web Services (AWS). Among the Salesforce products now accessible through AWS Marketplace are Data Cloud, Service Cloud, Sales Cloud, Industry Clouds, Tableau, MuleSoft, Platform, Signature Success, Slack, and Heroku. This integration simplifies subscription and management processes for AWS customers, providing a unified view of IT spend, streamlined procurement, and flexible options such as private pricing and consolidated billing through AWS.

Litera Introduces Foundation Dragon: Revolutionizing Legal Deal Term Data with AI

Litera, a prominent figure in legal technology solutions globally, has unveiled Foundation Dragon, an innovative generative AI (GenAI) deal term database. Foundation Dragon, a first-of-its-kind offering, furnishes legal teams with instant access to pertinent data points extracted from previous corporate transactions.

Leveraging AI within the Foundation platform, Dragon aggregates and organizes relevant data points from unstructured data found within firm documents. By swiftly and accurately processing extensive deal data, Dragon empowers firms to negotiate from positions of strength and secure more business opportunities.

Addressing the challenge of dispersed data across various systems, Foundation Dragon transforms unstructured deal terms into structured data, enhancing the value of the Foundation platform. Together, these tools provide lawyers with unparalleled access to a firms collective knowledge base.

Google Cloud Next 24: Transforming Businesses with AI

At Google Cloud Next 24, Google Cloud unveiled significant announcements aimed at facilitating business transformation through AI. With its comprehensive AI portfolio encompassing infrastructure, Gemini, models, and Vertex AI, Google Cloud empowers customers and partners to develop sophisticated AI agents for diverse applications.

Australian companies like Canva and Woolworths are harnessing Google Clouds AI tools to enhance customer and employee services. Canva utilizes Vertex AI to power Magic Design for Video, enabling customers to create engaging videos swiftly. Woolworths is driving adoption of Gemini for Google Workspace, aiming to boost team productivity. Moreover, Google Cloud announced the expansion of data residency for Generative AI on Vertex AI services to 11 new countries, including Australia. This initiative offers local customers greater control over data storage and access, facilitating compliance with regulatory and security standards worldwide. Key announcements from Google Cloud Next 24 include the introduction of Google Vids, an AI-powered video creation app for work, alongside new AI Meetings and Messaging add-ons and an AI Security add-on for Workspace administrators.

Intel Unveils Gaudi 3 AI Processor to Challenge Nvidia

Intel has disclosed the architectural details of its Gaudi 3 third-generation AI processor at Vision 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. Comprising two identical silicon dies connected via a high-bandwidth link, Gaudi 3 features 48 megabytes of cache memory at its core, surrounded by four engines for matrix multiplication and 32 tensor processor cores. With double the AI compute power of its predecessor, Gaudi 3 supports computations using 8-bit floating-point infrastructure and delivers a fourfold boost for computations using the BFloat 16 number format.
How Truong My Lans assets to be used to compensate lender SCB in $27B scam

The Saigon One Tower (pink) in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, one of the assets owned by Van Thinh Phat chairwoman Truong My Lan, has been confiscated. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Tung

Saigon Commercial Bank (SCB) is authorized to liquidate the 1,122 assets provided as collateral by Van Thinh Phat chairwoman Truong My Lan for loans, using them to offset the debts incurred in the $27B fraud.

Lan, 68, sentenced to death for embezzling money from SCB, has to pay it compensation of VND673.8 trillion (US$26.96 billion). She ordered SCB executives to disburse 2,500 loans to Van Thinh Phat and its associate companies over 10 years.

As of October 2022 (when Lan was arrested) the group had 1,284 loans worth VND677 trillion ($27 billion) outstanding, and she, as the mastermind of the scheme, is responsible for paying the amount in full, the People's Court of Ho Chi Minh City ruled Thursday.

Since she and some others had paid some money during the investigation and trial, she is now required to pay VND673.8 trillion, the judges said.

There are 1,122 assets that were used as collateral for the loans, and the bank now has the right to liquidate and set them off against the debts, they said.

During the investigation, the police confiscated many assets that Lan directly or indirectly owned, and they will all be used to recompense SCB.

They include 1,237 properties, most of them in Ho Chi Minh City and including the 118-hectare Saigon Peninsula land in District 7 and the Saigon One Tower in District 1.

The Saigon Peninsula land in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, one of the assets owned by Van Thinh Phat chairwoman Truong My Lan, has been confiscated. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Tung

People who have received goods, shares or cash from Lan have to turn them in to the court.

Do Thi Nhan, the State Bank of Vietnam banking inspector who has been sentenced to life in prison has turned in $4.8 million of the $5.2 million she took as bribes. The judges ordered her to pay the remaining $400,000 and another VND100 million ($4,000) as fine.

All property developer Van Thinh Phat assets will also be confiscated.

The police confiscated VND590 billion and nearly $15 million from Lan and others, while also freezing transactions in the defendants 42 bank accounts, which contain VND1.9 trillion and $8.4 million.

After a month-long trial the court has found Lan guilty of embezzlement, bribery and violating banking regulations.

Her husband was sentenced to nine years in jail and Truong Hue Van, her niece and CEO of Van Thinh Phat, got 17 years.

Three top SCB executives were also sentenced to life imprisonment.
Buildings are shrouded in haze in Bangkok, Thailand in 2020. Photo by Reuters

Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment along with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives and related officials have met on tackling the severe issue of air pollution.

Pol. Gen. Patcharawat Wongsuwon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, and Captain Thamanat Prompow, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, shared the outcomes of the committee on sustainable air pollution management's recent meeting.

Pol. Gen. Patcharawat disclosed that the prime minister has mandated stringent enforcement of laws against illegal burning. He also instructed northern provincial governors to provide direct updates on their efforts. The nine strategies the government has recently implemented are making progress and are well-coordinated, showcasing the ministry's proactive approach rather than a reactionary stance.

Captain Thamanat announced the operational center in Chiang Mai is equipped and ready, supported by multiple agencies. These units include the Royal Thai Army, the Royal Thai Air Force, the Royal Thai Police, the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. These organizations are reportedly prepared to deploy all military resources to Chiang Mai when needed.

On the issue of transboundary haze, Captain Thamanat noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been in talks with neighboring countries to minimize and stop burning practices. Additionally, the army is facilitating discussions through the general border committee.

He assured that these efforts would not disrupt the Songkran festival, emphasizing the commitment to combat pollution. Senior officials from various ministries will soon augment the operations in Chiang Mai.
Joseph William Kershaw, 23, was seen in the video on April 8 as he stripped all of his clothes and walked around briefly before getting dressed, The Sun newspaper reported.

His behavior triggered a wave of criticism from Thai people for disrespecting their culture. Some residents reported the incident to local police.

On Tuesday he was arrested at his hostel.

He admitted to the police being the man in the video and claimed he stripped due to "being intoxicated and overexcited," according to British newspaper Metro.

He was fined 110 (US$137) and forced to make a public apology.
Chinese passenger fined $160 for smoking on flight from Hanoi

Aircraft at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

Aviation authorities on Thursday fined a Chinese man VND4 million (US$158) for smoking on a flight from Hanoi to the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho.

At 7 p.m. on Tuesday a flight attendant had found the 40-year-old man smoking inside a restroom, setting off the smoke alarm, and reported to the captain, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is banned on all domestic flights in Vietnam.

Passengers are warned not to smoke, but some still try to sneak a puff in a toilet, ignoring the ubiquitous no-smoking signs.

Smoking is one of many flight safety violations reported in Vietnam in recent years.
The incident caught the attention of online netizens after a Thai man earlier this week shared a picture of the handwritten graffiti writing "Beer Love MayVy 2024," with "Love" demonstrated by a heart sign.

The man said he posed for the photo in the Nakameguro district of Tokyo.

His post has received over 7,000 likes and 700 shares, with Thai netizens saying the graffitists must be Thai people because "Beer" is a common nickname for Thais while "Mayvy" is a popular Thai womans nickname, The Thaiger reported.

Other netizens criticized the couples behavior for defaming Thailands reputation.

"Its a shame for Thais," a netizen wrote.

"The couple should not write graffiti on any public facilities, especially in Japan where people are extremely disciplined," another commented.

Under Japanese law, writing on public properties will result in imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to 300,000 yen (US$1,958).

This was not the first time foreign tourists have been caught defacing popular tourist attractions.

Last year, a British tourist was caught engraving his and his girlfriends names into an internal wall of the Roman Colosseum with a key, according to Business Insider.

He was criticized and forced to make a public apology.
When choosing a highly sought-after course such as MBBS, most students cave in to external pressure from their family or peers, resulting in heightened uncertainties about their present and the future. But with the support of qualified admission counsellors, students can make informed decisions about the ideal medical colleges and passion-aligned career paths. However, in the domain of admissions or career counselling, which is fraught with racketeers, only genuine and transparent companies stand out as reliable counsellors. It was the same need to build such a gem that laid the foundation for a commendable professional, CA Vineeta Singh, and her brainchild, Edu-Vinn, a trustworthy consultancy, to emerge. Specializing in medical admission and career counselling, Edu-Vinn stands as a testament to Vineetas visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to guiding students towards their dream careers, primarily in the realm of medicine.Even though she is a CA by qualification, Vineetas passion for contributing to the educational sector led her to serve various educational groups and their administrative units.These diverse roles, coupled with her personal quest to find the right institution for her daughter, exposed her to the long

-standing maze of course selection and admission, which eventually propelled her towards career counselling. She registered her company by the name of Vin Eduzone in 2019 and further forayed into the medical admission domain. In 2021, I established an office in Delhi, NCR, with the objective of helping students choose a profession or college that suits their individual personalities", Vineeta adds. Her background as a female CA further enabled her to gain the recognition and trust of clients. In addition, certifications like the Green Belt Certification in Global Career Counselling from Univariety also add a competitive edge to her and her venture.



The Drive for Excellence



Edu-Vinn guarantees admission for NEET-qualified candidates, even those with the lowest yet eligible scores. By providing access to over 1000+ colleges and universities in India and abroad, Edu-Vinn helps candidates choose different medical degrees, covering MBBS, BDS, BAMS, and BHMS, and more, that best fit their profiles. Vineeta makes sure that her expert team handholds the students throughout the process, right from in-demand course awareness to application assistance to education loans and scholarships to completion. Most processes are online and are always accessible to the students through the provided credentials. But the most notable factor of all lies in the teams transparency, on-call responsiveness, and commitment to fairness. As per a clause in the agreement, we assure a 100 percent refund of service charges if we fail to fulfil our commitments. But we are confident in our knowledge and processes, and our success rate is above 95 percent", claims CA Vineeta.



As an ardent reader, Vineeta prioritizes staying current and has ingrained a routine of reviewing regulatory and educational updates in the first working hour of every day. According to her, this has equipped her to help clients successfully despite limited seats and opportunities. For example, in 2022, even after all the states completed their counsel-ling rounds, we found out about one of the states that was permitted by the Supreme Court to conduct a second round. We successfully helped a distressed candidate get admission through the round who went on top his university in his first year", recollects Vineeta. With such remarkable accomplishments in her repository, she is currently focusing on the new service addition that empowers students to study abroad. The company has already partnered with institutions in several countries, like the UK, Australia, Germany, and others, and seeks to continue transforming the dreams of countless students into reality.
Secretary of the Yunnan provincial Party Committee Wang Ning (R) welcomes NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue. (Photo: VNA)

NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue and Wang expressed their delight at and positively evaluated the development of relations between the two Parties and countries over the past time.

They discussed measures to leverage the potential and strengths of both sides, aiming to further promote cooperative ties between Vietnamese ministries, agencies and localities and Yunnan in the coming time.

Wang praised the existing mechanism for exchange between the five Secretaries of the provincial Party Committees of China and Vietnam. He announced his intention to chair the mechanisms next meeting in May.

NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue reaffirmed Vietnam's policy on deepening ties with China and enhancing the traditional neighbourliness, comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and a community with a shared future between the two nations. He pledged support for Vietnamese localities to establish and develop mutually-beneficial partnerships with Chinese provinces, particularly those sharing the borderline with Vietnam like Yunnan.

The top legislator proposed increasing exchanges between local leaders, along with the effective implementation of existing cooperation agreements between Yunnan and Vietnamese localities. He suggested collaboration in border patrols, counter-terrorism efforts, and crime prevention and combat. Additionally, he advocated for stronger cooperation in key areas like railway connectivity, including Kunming-Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong route, tourism, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.

NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue stressed the importance of close coordination in border management and protection in line with three documents on land border and relevant agreements, and properly resolving pending issues and arising matters. He proposed Yunnan continue the preservation of historical locations where President Ho Chi Minh and other Vietnamese revolution leaders had worked.

Highlighting Yunnan's strategic location and natural resources, Wang emphasised efforts to improve railway and road connectivity, expand trade and logistics cooperation, and solidify the province's role as a gateway to Southeast and South Asia, including Vietnam.

Yunnan treasures its friendship and cooperation with Vietnam and stands ready to work closely with Vietnamese localities to effectively realise common perceptions of high-ranking leaders of the two nations, as well as those between Yunnan and Vietnamese ministries, agencies and localities, he said.

He added that Yunnan will increase the exchange of all-level delegations, effectively uphold the role of cooperation mechanisms, including those between the Peoples Congress and all-level People's Councils; deepen economic and trade collaboration, encourage Yunnan enterprises to invest in Vietnam, and facilitate the import of hig-quality Vietnamese agricultural and seafood products.

The province will also enhance cooperation in infrastructure and border gate connectivity, streamline customs procedures, improve customs clearance efficiency, and collaborate in green and modern agriculture, green energy, health care, culture, education and tourism, he said./.
Senior Airman Chris Bowser helps Thomas Gottwald, 19, try on equipment used by Air Force Special Warfare troops at the Great Texas Air Show at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Air Force Base in Texas on April 6, 2024. Gottwald said he plans to join the Air National Guard after college. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes)

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas  A 33-year-old mother pushing a baby stroller stopped Saturday at the Air Force recruiting tent of the Great Texas Air Show to ask about the differences in the military services. What could the Air Force offer her?, she asked.

A father pulled his young adult sons into the shade of the tent and asked the recruiter to please explain to his kids the benefits of military service. The father said hes tried but they just wont listen.

A man in his 30s joked with recruiters that he is past his enlistment window. Hes not, the recruiter told him. People can enlist through age 42. He seemed interested and bantered with the recruiter for several minutes about what it would take to enlist and what his options could be. However, a tattoo on his hand is a little big to meet even the new relaxed tattoo policy.

These interactions  intertwined with children and adults eager to do pushups to earn free Air Force-branded swag  are just one piece of how the service has pulled itself out of a recruiting slump that left it short on its enlistment goal last year.

Its planting a seed, said Master Sgt. Erica Jones, a recruiter in San Antonio who worked the air show in khaki pants and blue collared shirt. It does work.

Each of the military services has found the recruiting environment to be one of the most difficult in U.S. history, with only about 23% of Americans between ages 17 to 24 qualified to serve and less than 10% with an interest in doing so.

People line up April 6, 2024, to try a virtual reality simulation of Air Force Special Warfare troops at the Great Texas Air Show at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes)

In fiscal 2023, which ended in September, the Air Force reached only 89% of its active-duty recruiting goal of 26,977 enlistments, according to Defense Department data. The Army and Navy also fell short at 77% and 80%, respectively.

Data for fiscal 2024 recruitment shows the Army and Navy are still behind schedule, while the Air Force is on track to succeed. By the end of September, Air Force recruiters need to have enlisted 25,900 new airmen.

While we are cautiously optimistic that we can make our enlisted accessions goal for [fiscal] 2024, we cannot take our foot off the gas, Brig. Gen. Christopher Amrhein, Air Force Recruiting Service commander, said in a statement. We need to continue to provide training to our key front-line force -- the flight chief and recruiters. We need to continue to look at policy revisions which may still be barriers to service, as well as shorten the medical processing timeline and seek additional strategic marketing opportunities.

At the air show at Randolph, each of the Amrheins lines of effort were on display. Two men already committed to attend Air Force Special Warfare training helped the public try their best at pullups. Both said they have spent months waiting for their medical records to process so they can ship out to boot camp.

Meanwhile, Jones  the recruiter  politely dispelled anyones excuses that countered the services policy changes, such as the loosened policies on tattoos, age restrictions, the body fat standards for new recruits and retaking a failed drug test during the enlistment process.

Collectively, these changes have allowed more than 3,200 people to enlist, said Leslie Brown, spokeswoman for Air Force Recruiting Service. Thats slightly more than the number of recruits that the Air Force fell short of enlisting last year.

Of those, more than 2,600 enlisted by permitting a higher percentage of body fat. Only one person has failed to adapt and meet the physical standards required to complete basic military training, Brown said.

While the Air Force seeks out recruits at all sorts of events and locations, air shows are the second-most effective for enlistments, with high school visits the most valuable. Air shows tend to attract people who are interested in the service and are also likely to influence others to join, Brown said.

These events provide the opportunity to make our bases, equipment, and our people more accessible, allowing for more engagement and increasing the publics familiarity with the Air Force, she said.

At Randolphs air show, the public had an opportunity to see aircraft performing overhead, people could climb into airplanes and ground vehicles, try on a parachute pack, test their strength and agility on a physical fitness course, and go inside a trailer tricked out with a virtual reality simulation of a firefight.

Senior Airman Jennifer Farias, a recruiter, discusses enlistment options with Arianna Garcia, 17, left, and her mother, Jessica Garcia, right, on April 6, 2024, at the Great Texas Air Show at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. Arianna said she is considering joining the Air Force after high school. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes)

Senior Airman Chris Bowser helped people try on Special Warfare equipment and answered endless questions about how it worked. Several people came by curious about what happens when the parachute doesnt deploy. There is a backup, he explained, holding up the additional pack.

Many visitors to the recruiting tent had already decided on an Air Force career, they just needed help weighing their options. A college student with her mother pulled out a piece of notebook paper with her military assessment test scores handwritten across it. Shed been talking to the Army but wondered whether she should consider the Air Force instead.

A group of teenagers who are years from eligibility asked Senior Airman Jennifer Farias, a recruiter, about her pay, her housing, if she makes enough money to buy what she wants. Farias answered yes, she makes a decent living and does not have to pay her own rent.

They each asked to take a free Air Force pen, then a cup, and then a brochure before leaving the tent.

A 17-year-old girl stopped at the recruiting tent with her parents, quite certain shes ready to enlist after high school graduation. Her mother said shes eager for the good opportunities that military service could give her.

I have lots of family in the military, the 17-year-old said. I dont want to be stuck at home doing nothing.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and the new Bulgarian Ambassador to Vietnam, Pavlin Todorov, at their meeting in Hanoi on April 11. (Photo: VNA)

The Government leader suggested that Bulgaria call on the remaining EU member states to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and advocate the removal of the European Commission's "yellow card" warning imposed on Vietnam regarding illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities.

Lauding the deepening bilateral political ties, marked by high-level exchanges across party, state, and people-to-people channels, Chinh underscored the upcoming 75th anniversary of the nations diplomatic relations in 2025 and proposed the sides closely coordinate commemorating activities.

Expressing his delight at the countries effective coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums as well as the steady growth in bilateral trade, particularly since the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) came into effect, he acknowledged that their current scale of trade and investment remains modest compared to potential.

Looking forwards to stronger cooperation, particularly in areas of mutual strength such as green, digital, and circular economies, and agriculture, he affirmed the Vietnamese government's commitment to creating favourable conditions for Vietnamese and Bulgarian businesses to connect and collaborate.

Furthermore, the PM expressed a wish for joint work in traditional and strategic sectors such as education and training, defence, security, culture, and tourism. He proposed Bulgaria further support the Vietnamese expatriate community so that they can better integrate and serve as a link in enriching the friendship between the two nations.

On this occasion, he conveyed greetings and an invitation to visit Vietnam from Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to the President of Bulgaria.

In response, Todorov said he is committed to further promoting friendship and cooperation between Bulgaria and Vietnam, focusing on enhancing exchanges at all levels to build political trust and develop trade and investment ties.

The diplomat praised the excellent state of bilateral relations and expressed high regard for the Vietnamese community in Bulgaria. He affirmed the European nations recognition of Vietnam's significant role and position in the region as well as its readiness to support Vietnam in its relations with the EU./.
Spc. Jared Wickert, with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, reviews website information during an Army Credentialing Assistance Program briefing at Fort Carson, Colo., Nov. 13, 2019. (Norman Shifflett/U.S. Army)

A program that helps soldiers sharpen their career skills before they leave the service may cost too much money, the Armys top civilian official said this week.

The Credentialing Assistance Program allows soldiers to use up to $4,000 per fiscal year to earn certifications that can give them a leg up, whether its within their military job or in a field they pursue once they leave the service.

The program has become a catastrophic success, Army Secretary Christine Wormuth told House lawmakers Wednesday on Capitol Hill, due to its popularity and its costs.

Rep. John Carter (R-Texas), whose district includes Fort Cavazos, questioned Wormuth out of concern that cuts to credentialing and tuition assistance funding could impact recruiting and retention.

Wormuth replied that no final decisions had been made, but that a limit on soldiers to one certification per year was under consideration.

The challenge we have is we really, frankly, didnt put any guardrails around the program to help us scope it, Wormuth said.

Credentialing assistance began in 2018 as a pilot program. More than 64,000 soldiers have used it for certifications as project managers, personal trainers, private pilots and other jobs, Army spokesperson Andrea L. Kelly said in a statement.

The program cost the Army $60.2 million in fiscal year 2023, Kelly said, adding that a review is underway to ensure the long-term success of the program.
From left, British Royal Navy Adm. Sir Keith Blount, deputy supreme allied commander Europe, U.S. Ambassador to Italy Jack Markell and Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Forces Command Naples, speak with reporters aboard U.S. 6th Fleet flagship USS Mount Whitney on April 9, 2024. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

NAPLES, Italy  Ukraines successful drone and missile attacks on Russias Black Sea Fleet are being studied by the U.S. Navy and NATO as the West develops strategies to confront potential Russian aggression, the services top admiral in Europe said.

Ukraine is locked in a bitter stalemate on land, with dwindling munition supplies and Russian forces entrenched in much of the countrys east. But it has found success at sea worth learning from and applying globally, analysts say.

Without a traditional navy, Ukraine has managed to sink or disable nearly one-third of the fleet, said Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Forces Command Naples.

Theyve done it by starting with low-cost technology and adding sophisticated weaponry to their operations as the war has developed.

The attacks have pushed the Russians further east in the Black Sea and opened a maritime corridor to allow grain shipments, which Munsch said was a significant achievement.

Theyve also demonstrated how to put the Russians in such a box so that they no longer operate freely, said Munsch, speaking with reporters at a celebration of NATOs 75th anniversary aboard the amphibious command ship USS Mount Whitney on Tuesday.

The Ukrainian maritime strategy was a particular focus of the recent Black Sea Maritime Forum in Bucharest, Romania, Munsch said.

The annual talks were attended by naval personnel and other representatives from all Black Sea littoral countries except for Russia. U.S. allies like the U.K., Japan and Sweden also were there.

Ukrainian use of drones and missiles reveals problems Western navies could experience in defending against such attacks, said Sebastian Bruns, a German maritime security expert and senior researcher for the Institute for Security Policy at Kiel University.

Those challenges include identifying, tracking and neutralizing surface drones that barely rise above surface level. Most Western navies dont have sufficient close-in weapons systems that can shoot at the angle needed when a surface drone is approaching, he said.

I am not sure that Western navies would have similar problems as the Russians, but we too would likely lose ships. If not unit kills, then at least mission kills, said Bruns, who recently published an analysis on Black Sea naval lessons.

Ukrainian use of anti-ship missiles against static targets, such as ships in port and other shore facilities, also is wreaking havoc on the Black Sea Fleet, to include installations, people and their morale, Bruns pointed out.

The Ukrainian Defense Ministry on March 24 said it had disabled or destroyed 26 Russian surface vessels and one submarine.

Most recently, Ukrainian forces struck two Russian landing ships, the fleets communications center and other facilities in Sevastopol, Crimea, on March 24, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said in a post to its official X account the same day.

Anti-ship missiles should be prioritized in (Western) navies, Bruns said.

The lessons being learned also extend to a Taiwan defense scenario.

Deploying large numbers of cheap drones into a relatively confined battle space such as the Taiwan Strait or the seas near China could make those spaces no-go territory or escalate the costs of operating there to prohibitive levels, said James Holmes, chair of the maritime strategy program at the Naval War College in Newport, R.I.

The Pentagons Replicator program, announced last year, envisions such a capability, he noted.

If the Joint Force, along with our allies, can seal off the straits along the first island chain, it will have corralled Chinas navy and air force and can strike at them with missiles and drones within their own home waters, Holmes said. Thats a wicked problem for Beijing.

Ukrainian success in the Black Sea also teaches that self-defense cant be taken for granted, Holmes and Bruns said.

Opponents will try to overwhelm U.S. defenses with many weapons from different points in the hope that enough will get through to score a mission kill and take Navy ships out of action, Holmes said.

We have done well in the Red Sea to date, but the Houthis could never match the volume of ordnance that a Peoples Liberation Army could put out, he said.
The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt trains with the Japanese destroyer JS Ariake, top, and South Korean destroyer Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong south of Jeju Island, South Korea, April 11, 2024. (South Korean navy)

SEOUL, South Korea  The U.S., South Korean and Japanese navies trained together in the East China Sea on Thursday and Friday as President Joe Biden met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington.

The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt and guided-missile destroyers USS Howard, USS Daniel Inouye and USS Russell took part in the exercise, according to a South Korean navy news release.

The Associated Press reported the training took place in the East China Sea, a strategically important area surrounded by Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and China. The South Korean navy said the drills occurred south of Jeju Island.

The U.S. has conducted several exercises with its allies in the region recently to demonstrate a common defense in the event of aggression from China or North Korea.

The Japanese destroyer JS Ariake and the South Korean destroyer Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong joined the drills for anti-submarine tactics, search and rescue and maritime interception, the South Korean navy said.

The exercise was a great opportunity for us to strengthen our capacity to respond to North Koreas nuclear and [weapons of mass destruction] threats and provide humanitarian assistance to ships in distress , according to the release.

It also underlined improving relations between South Korea and Japan, old foes in the early 20th century.

Biden commended Kishida at a White House news conference Wednesday for taking the brave step of mending ties with [South Korea] so we can all stand shoulder to shoulder together.

The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt trains with the Japanese destroyer JS Ariake, left, and South Korean destroyer Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong south of Jeju Island, South Korea, April 11, 2024. (South Korean navy)

Kishida and his wife, Yuko Kishida, made a weeklong trip to Washington, where the leaders addressed a long agenda, including possible reconfiguration of the U.S. command in Japan. Biden invited Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos to the White House for their first talks Thursday, according to AP.

We welcomed the progress seen in many areas of cooperation based on the outcome of the Japan-U.S.-[South Korea] summit last August and concurred to coordinate even more closely as we face serious concerns under the current state of affairs, Kishida said during the news conference.

Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine, said Thursday on the Theodore Roosevelt that the exercise would improve communication among the United States and its allies and better prepare us for a crisis in the region, the AP reported Friday.

It is a busy time; there is a lot going on in the world, Alexander said, according to the report. The significance of this exercise is we have three like-minded countries, three like-minded navies that believe in peace, security and stability in the western Pacific.

The three navies last trained together in November, when the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson and guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett and USS Kidd drilled with South Korean and Japanese destroyers.

Trilateral military exercises kicked into high gear after leaders of the three countries held a summit at Camp David, Md., in August.

Biden, Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed to align our collective efforts to address North Koreas unprecedented ballistic missile nuclear threats, in a statement following their meeting.

The United States unequivocally reaffirms that its extended deterrence commitments to both Japan and [South Korea] are ironclad and backed by the full range of U.S. capabilities, the statement said. Our three countries announce today that we intend to hold annual, named, multi-domain trilateral exercises on a regular basis to enhance our coordinated capabilities and cooperation.
Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk arrives at the Task Force 70 change-of-command ceremony aboard the USS Ronald Reagan at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, April 12, 2024. (U.S. Navy)

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  Command of the Navys only aircraft carrier strike group permanently stationed in a foreign country changed hands Friday during a ceremony at the homeport of the U.S. 7th Fleet.

Rear Adm. Pat Hannifin passed command of Task Force 70 and Carrier Strike Group 5 to Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, Task Force 70 said in a Friday news release.

The dual-hatted command is responsible for 7th Fleets carrier strike group, now led by the Ronald Reagan, and authority over any independently deployed cruisers or destroyers active in its operations area, which spans more than 47.8 million square miles.

Command at any level is one of lifes most distinct honors and most sacred privileges, Newkirk said at the ceremony, according to the news release. To command at any time and place of such great global consequence alongside great teams that include our friends here in Japan  the honor becomes even higher.

The command encompasses subordinate units, including Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 51, Electronic Attack Squadron 138, Carrier Air Wing 5 and Destroyer Squadron 15, the Navys largest destroyer squadron.

Hannifin, of San Diego, took command of the task force in June. His next assignment is director of operations for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii.

He said he was incredibly proud of his team and that Task Force 70s 11,000 sailors are the nations front line, according to the release.

I am incredibly honored to have stood among them, and know Admiral Newkirk is exactly the man needed to lead them in the coming year, he said.

Newkirk, of Medina, Ohio, previously served as deputy director of operations for the National Joint Operations Intelligence Centers Operations Team Two, part of the Pentagons J3 Operations team that advises the White House, according to a March 1 news release from the Defense Department.

During Newkirks tenure as commander of Carrier Strike Group 5, the USS George Washington is scheduled replace the Ronald Reagan.

The George Washington, which the Ronald Reagan replaced as the lead ship of the strike group in 2015, is due to relocate from Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Wash., the Navy announced in April 2023.

The Ronald Reagan, in turn, will move to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard for its own maintenance.
The 24-hour Konstanz flea market stretches across the German/Swiss border. The next iteration will begin the evening of June 15. (Carolin Lepiarczyk/MTK)

One never knows what treasures are to be found at a flea market, and thats all part of the beauty of such events. The thrill of stumbling upon that perfect complement to a new home or all the gear for a hitherto undiscovered sport or game can make a long-ish drive entirely worth its while. Here are some places to track down that one last thing almost guaranteed to make life complete.

Belgium

The Ciney Expo, located in Wallonia in the French-speaking region of southern Belgium, plays host to one of the countrys largest flea market and antiques fairs. Three times a year, its grounds are the site of editions of Ciney Puces & Antiquites, a vast event attracting buyers and sellers from all over Europe. At 2 p.m. on a Friday, the first day of the event, trucks parked in the fairs lot begin unloading their treasures straight onto the pavement, all to the delight of the tens of thousands gathered in search of that perfect yet elusive find. Furniture, precious metals, art of all kinds, semi-precious stones and jewelry, crystal and more await new ownership inside the halls in the days to follow. An expert is on hand to advise about the pieces on show, a service that is offered free of charge.

The next market is scheduled for July 19-21. Adult tickets cost 10 euros for entry on Friday and 8 euros on Saturday and Sunday. Show hours inside the hall are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. all days. The autumn edition of the market will take place on Oct. 11-13. (A separate event at which military memorabilia is will sold will take place on April 28.) Online: cineyexpo.be

France

Of all the countrys major flea market events, the Grand Braderie de Lille stands out. Each year in September, Lille hosts whats billed as the biggest flea market in all Europe, and with upwards two million visitors, the claim sounds legitimate. From 7 p.m. Sept. 13 until 6 p.m. Sept. 15, the medieval city close to the Belgian border will heave with buyers and sellers (officially, sales are not supposed to take place before Saturday morning at 8 a.m.). Vendors with like objects tend to sell within the same zones, so familiarizing oneself with the markets layout is a wise strategy. According to longstanding tradition, the food fueling the masses will be mussels. Online: braderie-de-lille.fr

Germany

Furth: This Bavarian city northwest of Nuremberg is home to a market known as the Grafflmarkt. Twice a year, the citys pretty Old Town attracts thousands of shoppers in search of useful, curious or pretty objects. Kids have their very own market around the Michaelis Church. Upcoming dates and times include 4 p.m.-10 p.m. on June 28 and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. June 29; the markets following edition is set for Sept. 13-14. Online: tinyurl.com/2sfe8hpx

Homburg: For a modest-sized city in Saarland, the offers that spring up at this flea market can be pretty spectacular indeed. The market takes place on grounds known as Am Forum on the first Saturday of the month; upcoming dates in 2024 include May 4, June 1, July 6, Aug. 3, Sept. 7, Oct. 12, Nov. 2 and Dec. 7. Goods are sold from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Online: tinyurl.com/2rm6h6cm

Konstanz: This overnight flea markets unusual claim to fame is its border-straddling nature. Rows of wares on sale in this town by Lake Constance (or the Bodensee as its known in German) spill across the Swiss border and into the neighboring town of Kreuzlingen. Should all the vendors stalls be laid out straight, theyd stretch over five miles. Street musicians add a special flair to the long summer evening. The next flea market will unfold on the evening of June 15 and continue for 24 hours. Online: tinyurl.com/4fwa58ts

Ludwigsburg: This city some eight miles north of Stuttgart holds an antiques market in early fall, a time of year when the added attraction of the annual pumpkin festival held in the castle grounds gives double the reason to make the trek. The Ludwigsburger Antikmeile takes place Sept. 28-29. Some 150 sellers set up shop in the towns delightfully baroque market square from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. both days. Online: tinyurl.com/bd737mze

Munich: The Oktoberfest is preceded in spring by whats affectionately referred to as its little sister, the Fruhlingsfest, or Spring Festival. On April 20, the grounds known as the Theresienwiese will offer not only rides, stalls and beer tents but also a bustling flea market run by the Bavarian Red Cross. The selling starts at 7 a.m. Online: tinyurl.com/5n727rzp

Nuremberg: Twice a year, the citys gorgeously medieval Old Town transforms itself into a bargain hunters delight. From 4 p.m. until midnight on Friday evening and from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on the following Saturday, Germanys largest inner-city flea market sees up to 4000 stalls manned by both private sellers and professional traders unveil a treasure-trove of bric-brac, clothing and household wares. An evening stroll along illuminated cobblestone streets can be a special experience even without nailing a bargain. The so-called Trempelmarkt is set to take place May 10-11 and Sept. 6-7 in 2024. Online: tinyurl.com/5n8v24kf

Stuttgart: While theres an antiques market held on the Karlsplatz on most Saturdays, an even bigger one takes place once in spring and again in the fall. This years big spring market has been scheduled for May 12, and its autumn edition is planned for Sept. 15. Online: tinyurl.com/yf38786n

Wiesbaden: The grounds adjacent to the stately Biebrich Castle in the suburb of the same name play host to a small but satisfying market thats certainly worth checking out by those in the neighborhood. Goods are on sale here from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Upcoming dates include April 20, June 15, July 20, Aug. 17, Sept. 21 and Oct. 19. Online: tinyurl.com/38n9te79

Netherlands

Mark calendars for Saturday, April 27, the date of Kings Day across the land. Citizens of towns and cities great and small will be celebrating the House of Orange and taking their orange-hued party to the streets. In many cities, notably Amsterdam and Utrecht, untold miles of sidewalk are transformed into a selling space for private vendors to shift their wares as part of the longstanding vrijmarkt tradition. Online: tinyurl.com/2u3eu86e
In this photo taken in March 1944 in the Pacific, Richard Bong, then a captain in the U.S. Army Air Force, sits in the cockpit of his P-38 fighter plane adorned with an image of his girlfriend, Marge, and a scoreboard tallying his 25 aerial victories over Japanese aircraft. (U.S. Army Air Force)

Last September, Justin Taylan received an email from a museum curator asking whether one of the most famous aircraft from World War II remained in Papua New Guinea where it crashed in 1944.

As director of the nonprofit search-and-recovery organization Pacific Wrecks, Taylan had been fielding queries about WWII aircraft crash sites for almost 30 years. But the question about this P-38  nicknamed Marge by Capt. Richard Bong, Americas top flying ace  stumped him.

I replied to the email truthfully, saying, I dont know. But lets find out,  Taylan said by phone March 28.

Months later, Taylan is preparing to lead a team to Papua New Guinea to locate and document the famous wreck in a joint project with the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, Wis.

If the wreckage still exists, it will be in a very remote area in this mountainous nation in Oceania, Taylan said.

I cant promise anything to anyone, he said. Its possible that local people have removed the wreckage for scrap metal, or an earthquake or tornado has covered it under tons of earth that cant be moved reasonably. But theres no way to know for sure until we get there.

An aerial record still standing

Bong, a Wisconsin native, enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in May 1941 as an aviation cadet and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army Air Force a year later.

He was soon flying a P-38 Lightning, an astounding double-engine flying machine powerful enough to climb 3,300 feet in one minute and achieve a top speed of 400 mph, about 100 mph faster than any other fighter existing at the outbreak of WWII.

P-38s carried four 50-caliber machine guns and a 20 mm cannon.

Bong was a deft pilot who seized the P-38s monster weaponry to claim his first two aerial kills in December 1942 over Buna, New Guinea.

At five aerial victories a month later, he earned the title ace.

In April 1944, he exceeded the 26 aerial kills claimed by Americas top World War I ace, Edward Rickenbacker, making Bong the highest scoring ace in U.S. history, a title still standing.

Along the way he was awarded the Silver Star, Distinguished Service Cross and Medal of Honor.

Bong flew a series of P-38s during the war, but one was highly celebrated.

In February 1944, Bong was assigned a new P-38 that he personalized as his own. He christened the plane Marge after his girlfriend, Marjorie Vattendahl, and placed a large portrait of her on the aircrafts nose. Near her image was a scoreboard tallying his aerial kills.

Richard Bong shows off the portrait of his girlfriend on the nose of his P-38 fighter in this photo taken in March 1944 in the Pacific. (Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center)

The public gobbled up the newspaper accounts of Bongs flying prowess and his devotion to his girl back home.

Bong was credited with three aerial victories while piloting his homage to Marge.

On March 24, 1944, another pilot, 2nd Lt. Tom Malone, was flying Bongs plane on a weather reconnaissance mission over New Guinea when electrical malfunctions forced him to bail out at about 11,000 feet.

Bong, who was promoted to major, went on to fly more missions in other planes, racking up 40 aerial victories before he was brought back to the U.S. mainland in early 1945. There, he married Vattendahl, hawked war bonds and became a test pilot for the first jet fighters.

Bongs untimely death later that year should have been major news, but it was eclipsed by a cataclysmic event.

He crashed while flying a P-80 Shooting Star jet fighter shortly after taking off in Southern California on Aug. 6, 1945, the same day America dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima.

A P-38 Lightning fighter, with markings replicating the original Marge aircraft, sits on display at the Richard Bong WWII Heritage Center in Superior, Wis. (Richard I. Bong WWII Heritage Center)

Down a rabbit hole

Early in 2023, Briana Fiandt, curator at the Bong historical center, met several individuals who had ties to Papua New Guinea, and the subject of Bongs P-38 came up.

Curiosity about what might have become of the famous Marge sent me down this rabbit hole of research, Fiandt said by phone April 3.

I guess I just couldnt believe it, as I was doing my research, that nobody had ever [searched for] it before, she said. I assumed I was going to go do my research and then find out, yep, somebody in the 90s went out there and documented it or found that it wasnt out there.

Nobody from our organization had ever thought to go look for it before.

That led her to Taylan, who estimates he has visited the sites of more than a thousand aircraft wrecks in the Indo-Pacific since traveling at age 16 with his grandfather in the 1990s to Papua New Guinea to visit former battlefields.

Justin Taylan, founder and director of Pacific Wrecks, stands beside World War II aircraft wreckage in Papua New Guinea in May 2023. (Pacific Wrecks)

Taylan has primarily hunted for aircraft associated with missing-in-action service members, with the goal of finding their remains so that an official accounting of MIAs could be made by the U.S. government.

No MIAs are associated with Marge, and, technically, the plane is not even lost, Taylan said.

Several days after the crash, the crash site was discovered by a U.S. Army patrol, he said.

But they paid it little mind, as pilot Malone had bailed and made it back to safety, and the New Guinea landscape was littered with crashed Allied and Japanese aircraft, he said.

Malone died in 2005, but Taylan said he has reviewed letters he wrote about the day of the crash.

Taylans search team, which will include documentarians, archeologists and locals familiar with the countryside, will perform a survey of the site if it is found. No artifacts will be removed, he said.

Portions of the excursion, which will likely begin later this month, will be livestreamed at p38marge.org, depending upon internet access, he said.

Taylan is optimistic the site will be found.

I never go into any investigation half-cocked, I guess you could say in military terms, he said jokingly.

Im confident that there will be something to find there, but its not going to be an intact airplane, he said. Its going to be a crash site. Its going to look like perhaps a pile of junk. But this will be the most historically important pile of junk in the Asia-Pacific region.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks at Diaoyutai State Guest House on April 1, 2024, in Beijing, China. (Ken Ishii/Pool/Getty Images/TNS)

(Tribune News Service)  China said its top diplomat discussed tensions in the Middle East on a call with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, underscoring fears that the six-month-old Gaza conflict may escalate.

Wang Yi stressed that China strongly condemns the attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing in Beijing.

China called on all parties to the crisis in Gaza to immediately stop the fighting and prevent a humanitarian crisis, Mao said on Friday. She added that the U.S. in particular needs to play a constructive role.

Iran has threatened to hit Israel in retaliation for an attack on a diplomatic compound in the Syrian capital of Damascus last week. Israel hasnt explicitly acknowledged it was behind that attack.

China maintains close ties with Iran, helping broker a detente between Tehran and Riyadh a year ago. Most Iranian oil exports go to China.

Mao avoided a question about whether Wang and Blinken discussed the South China Sea. China and the Philippines have been involved in a series of tense encounters near a disputed shoal there, and recently the U.S., Japan, Australia and the Philippines patrolled the waters.

On Thursday, President Joe Biden said that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty.

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A screen grab from a video released on Friday, April 12, 2024, shows a Ka-52 helicopter gunship of the Russian air force firing rockets at a target at an unknown location in Ukraine. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service)

KYIV - As Ukrainian officials plead for more Western arms and a U.S. aid package remains stalled in Congress, Russia is advancing on the battlefield in eastern Ukraine, seizing new territory and intensifying attacks to capture the town of Chasiv Yar and others in the Donetsk region.

Away from the front line, Ukraines dwindling air defense capabilities are showing vulnerabilities, as more Russian missiles and drones are able to hit targets such as critical infrastructure facilities.

Outside Kyiv - considered Ukraines best-protected city - the largest power plant serving the capital was destroyed Thursday, stoking concerns that Ukraine might be running out of surface-to-air missiles to counter the Russian airstrikes.

We need air defense systems and other defense assistance, not just turning a blind eye and having lengthy discussions, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

For months, Ukrainian military personnel have described the battlefield situation as dire due to a shortage of weapons and soldiers amid a renewed Russian offensive. They have reported increased Russian bombardment using guided air bombs, dropped from their planes onto Ukrainian military positions.

With resources running low, this assault in eastern Ukraine could threaten larger towns and cities such as Kostiantynivka, just west of Chasiv Yar - potentially advancing Russian President Vladimir Putins goal of seizing the entire Donetsk region, which he has already declared, illegally, to be annexed by Russia.

Chasiv Yar - west of the city of Bakhmut, which Russias Wagner mercenaries captured and occupied nearly a year ago - is now the new focus of Moscows forces, commanders fighting in the area said.

They systematically try to advance, said a deputy battalion commander in the 24th Separate Assault Battalion, better known as Aidar. The Washington Post agreed to identify the commander by his call sign, Chichen, in keeping with Ukrainian military protocol.

We now see, due to their assaults, a large number of [Russian] armored vehicles knocked out on the outskirts, Chichen said, adding that on Friday morning, some 20 units of heavy equipment were part of the Russian assault.

Literally six months ago, this did not happen here, he said. Now there is a lot of burned-out equipment.

Ukraines worsening battlefield situation has coincided with Republicans in Congress blocking, for more than six months, $60 billion in security aid for Ukraine proposed by President Biden. During that time, Russia has regained the offensive initiative, initially by overtaking the town of Avdiivka in February.

Moscows forces have continued to advance past Avdiivka in the southern part of the Donetsk region. And on a separate axis, they are now encroaching on Chasiv Yar - a two-pronged attack.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are concerned that Russia is preparing to mobilize hundreds of thousands more soldiers for another potential offensive in the northeast, toward Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city. Kharkiv in recent weeks has been pummeled repeatedly by missiles, and strikes on energy infrastructure have disrupted electrical service.

Elsewhere in the southeast, Ukrainian forces have been fighting to maintain the few gains they made during a counteroffensive last summer, towns such as Robotyne, south of the city of Zaporizhzhia.

Ukrainian and Western officials have warned that without the U.S. support - particularly in providing air defense and artillery ammunition - Ukraines defense along the front line could crumble

Gen. Christopher Cavoli, the top U.S. general overseeing military operations in Europe, warned U.S. lawmakers this week that Russia is expected to hold a 10-1 advantage on artillery shells within weeks.

Oleksander, a Ukrainian battalion commander fighting on the left flank of Chasiv Yar, said Russians are now assaulting the town directly as well as other villages at its edges. He spoke on the condition that only his first name be used because he was not authorized to speak publicly.

In recent days, the Russians had reached the outskirts of the town, he said, and he predicted that if Ukraine does not withdraw from Chasiv Yar the end of the month, fighting will probably already be taking place in the towns center.

Chichen, the Aidar deputy battalion commander, said that Chasiv Yar could be strategic for Russian soldiers because it has high ground that is convenient for launching drone attacks. Defending a canal that runs through the eastern edge of the town will be key for Ukraine, he said.

Now the canal is one of the main boundaries that everyone is trying to hold on to, Chichen said. If they have to advance, then there are restrictions on the places in which they will cross it. It will be possible to pass there by infantry, but it will be more difficult for them to cross with vehicles. Therefore, the canal is quite an important thing.
Delegates at the meeting (Photo: nhandan.vn)

In his speech, Ambassador Khoi affirmed that Vietnam-Laos relations have been growing positively with regular high-level visits. He also expected that Laos, as the ASEAN Chair in 2024, will closely coordinate with Vietnam to raise the prestige and position of ASEAN in Russia.

For her part, Lao Ambassador Vilavanh Yiapoher highly appreciated the close relationship between the two embassies and expressed her hope that the two sides will cooperate more effectively, contributing to the nurturing of the two countries special relations.

At the meeting, the two Ambassadors and all staff of the two embassies together performed songs in Vietnamese and Lao, enjoyed Lao national dishes, Lam Vong  traditional dance of Laos and experienced features of the Bunpimay festival./.
An Israeli security guard watches over the Kerem Shalom border crossing in March. (Heidi Levine for The Washington Post)

Public scrutiny over military aid to Israel has mounted in the wake of its war in Gaza following Hamass deadly Oct. 7 attack and amid concerns over the rising civilian death toll.

A handful of countries have provided Israel with hundreds of millions of dollars worth of weaponry and military equipment since October, although the details of many transfers remain shrouded in secrecy. The United States and Germany - which supply the vast majority of Israels imported arms - say the transfers are essential to support Israels security.

This month, the International Court of Justice began hearing a legal challenge over German arms exports to Israel, while the 47-member U.N. human rights council passed a nonbinding resolution calling for the end of the sale, transfer and diversion of arms, munitions and other military equipment to Israel. Heres what to know.

What military aid does the U.S. provide to Israel?

Since World War II, the United States has provided more military aid to Israel than it has to any other country. In recent years, the military aid amounts to more than $3 billion per year.

Most U.S. military aid to Israel falls under the Foreign Military Financing program, which provides grants that Israel uses to purchase U.S. military goods and services. The United States is the Israeli militarys biggest supplier, accounting for 69 percent of its total arms imports between 2019 and 2023, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

The U.S. has the stated the aim of enabling Israel to maintain a qualitative military edge over its neighbors. Israel views Iran and the militant groups it backs as existential threats, and the U.S. has noted Iran has repeatedly threatened to destroy Israel.

The U.S. has also maintained a stockpile of weapons in Israel since the 1990s, with some of the stockpiled shells redirected to Israels military following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack.

Since the war began in October, the United States has reiterated that its support of Israels security is ironclad, and it has continued to back that pledge with more than 100 separate foreign military sales to Israel, including thousands of precision-guided munitions, small-diameter bombs, bunker busters, small arms and other lethal aid.

The details of many of the military exports are not public, making it unclear how many of the recent transfers represent routine supply, as opposed to an escalation intended to replenish munitions used in Israels bombardment of Gaza.

Washington has announced two major military sales to Israel since the war began: a $106.5 million sale of 14,000 tank ammunition cartridges and equipment, and a $147.5 million sale of 155mm artillery shells and related equipment.

U.S.-made weapons have been used widely in Gaza since Oct. 7, though it is not clear when they were purchased or delivered. In the early weeks following the Hamas assault, the U.S. expedited the delivery of thousands of bombs and artillery to Israel through military airlift as well as authorizing the transfer of weaponry the U.S. holds in storage in Israel, officials familiar with the matter said.

In March, the Biden administration authorized the transfer of 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs to Israel, The Post reported. The 2,000-pound bombs have been linked to previous mass-casualty events throughout Israels military campaign in Gaza. On April 1, the same day Israeli airstrikes killed seven World Central Kitchen aid workers, the State Department approved the transfer of more than 1,000 MK82 500-pound bombs, more than 1,000 small-diameter bombs, and fuses for MK80 bombs, all from authorizations granted by Congress several years before the latest hostilities between Israel and Hamas began, said the U.S. officials.

Those arms transfers are not expected to be delivered by 2025 or later, officials said.

What weapons and military equipment does Germany export to Israel?

Germany is the second-biggest supplier to Israels military, according to SIPRI. By its estimates, Israel imported some 30 percent of its arms between 2019 and 2023 from German manufacturers. The military commitments reflect the long-standing sense of historical responsibility felt by German leaders toward Israel, who cite Germanys responsibility arising from the Holocaust.

German arms exports to Israel surged tenfold last year compared with 2022, hitting $354 million.

Since October, Berlin says it has approved the sale of about $275 million worth of weapons and military equipment to Israel, according to a presentation by its foreign ministrys lawyers at the International Court of Justice on Tuesday. The vast majority of that aid - about $218 million - was approved in October, with export approvals dropping sharply in subsequent months.

Germany has argued that about 98 percent of its exports authorized after the war were not for war weapons, but rather other military equipment - a category that can include items like helmets or communications equipment. However, aid groups and nonprofit investigative organizations have argued that the full data on exports of weapons is incomplete, and that components of weapons may not be officially classified as war weapons.

Germany says it has only licensed four war weapons for export since October - three were test or practice equipment while the fourth was for the transfer of 3,000 portable antitank weapons.

Berlin also approved the export of 500,000 rounds of ammunition in November for machine guns, submachine guns, or other fully automatic or semiautomatic firearms, although it says they are intended for training purposes only.

Which other countries have exported military equipment to Israel, and which have stopped?

Several other countries have also provided military equipment - although some have paused new exports in recent months.

Italy was the third-largest global exporter of arms to Israel between 2019 and 2023, accounting for 0.9 percent of Israels imports in the period, according to SIPRI. It announced in late 2023 that it had stopped sending weapons to Israel; but some arms exports continued, with the government later saying it was honoring existing orders on the condition that the weaponry would not be used against civilians.

Britain says its arm exports represent 0.02 percent of Israels overall military imports. In 2022, the last full year for which data is available, London exported $53 million worth of military equipment to Israel. Its courts dismissed a legal challenge against its arms sales to Israel - however, hundreds of U.K. legal experts have written to the government, urging it to end weapon exports to the country.

Canada has not approved any arms export permits to Israel since Jan. 8, the countrys foreign ministry said in March, adding that the pause will continue until it can ensure Israels full compliance with export controls. It said that export permits approved before Jan. 8 would remain in effect.

Spains foreign ministry said in February that the country has not authorized any arms sales to Israel since the war broke out. However, El Diario newspaper reported that military exports approved before the war had been sent to Israel after Oct. 7.

In the Netherlands, a court in February ordered the government to suspend export of F-35 fighter jet parts to Israel within seven days because of evident risks of serious violations of international humanitarian law, following a lawsuit brought by Oxfam Novib and two other rights groups. The Dutch government is appealing the order in the Supreme Court.

What has Biden said about sending U.S. weapons to Israel?

While President Biden has increasingly used tough rhetoric in speaking about the war, including blunt remarks criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus approach in Gaza, it has not corresponded with any significant policy shift in his administrations unyielding support of Israel.

In February, Biden issued a national security memorandum that requires countries receiving U.S. weaponry, including Israel, to provide credible and reliable written assurances that it will use U.S. defense material in accordance with international humanitarian and other laws. Israel provided written assurances to the State Department in March, and the State Department is due to share it assessment with Congress by May 8.

After an Israeli strike killed seven aid workers, including a dual-citizen Canadian American, from World Central Kitchen, on April 1, Biden said U.S. policy with respect to Gaza would change if Israel did not do more to protect civilians, aid workers and allow in more humanitarian assistance.

John Hudson, Kate Brady, and Cate Brown contributed to this report.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem on June 25, 2023. According to reports on Friday, April 12, 2024, Israel is bracing for a direct attack from Iran. (Abir Sultan/Pool )

(Tribune News Service)  Israel is bracing for a direct and unprecedented attack by Iran on government targets as soon as Saturday, according to people familiar with western intelligence assessments, a move that has the potential to trigger an all-out regional war.

The assault from Iranian soil has emerged as one of the main scenarios expected by the Jewish state and its allies, said the people, who asked not to be identified as they arent authorized to discuss the matter publicly. A bombardment with drones and precision missiles could come within the next 48 hours, they said.

The U.S. is preparing defenses and has moved additional military assets to the region, while intensifying diplomatic efforts to rein in hostilities, the people said. The move still hasnt been approved by Tehrans highest-ranking officials, they said.

Brent crude futures, the international oil benchmark, jumped as much as 1.8% to more than $91 a barrel in London on Friday, extending the year-to-date advance to 18%.

A Iranian missile and drone barrage would represent a retaliation for a deadly attack on its diplomatic compound in Syria last week, which the Islamic Republic blames on Israel. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has repeatedly said Israel will be punished for the assault, though stopped short of saying what form such a counter move would take.

Two of the people said its possible that the increasingly inflammatory rhetoric between Israel, Iran, and the U.S. could be grandstanding, but said the working assumption for Israel and allies is that an attack is imminent. Diplomatic back-channels are in overdrive, the people said.

U.S. officials including Jake Sullivan and Brett McGurk have been working to send messages to Iran, including through an established Swiss channel, one of the people said, while talking to Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other governments.

Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday the U.S. and allies were expecting a major escalation of hostilities, with targeted attacks on Israeli government and military sites. The Jewish State hasnt claimed or denied responsibility for the Damascus attack, in keeping with a decades-long policy of ambiguity on operations in Syria, Lebanon and elsewhere.

A direct Israel-Iran conflict would significantly rachet up hostilities in the Middle East, where tensions have been rising since Israel began its war against Hamas, an Iranian proxy group, in Gaza in October. Other members of the Islamic Republics so-called Axis of Resistance, chiefly Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Yemen-based Houthis, have stepped up their aggression in recent months.

The esclating hostilities have drawn direct intervention from senior diplomats. U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron warned Iran Thursday that an attack would escalate and drag in a wider array of actors.

Western officials said intelligence showed Iran is preparing an attack on Israel any day after Eid, the Muslim holiday celebrated on April 10, adding the next 48 hours were critical to see if the message to diffuse tensions had successfully reached Tehran.

With assistance from Alberto Nardelli.

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Israels Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan speaks during a United Nations Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, at UN headquarters in New York on March 25, 2024. (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images/TNS)

(Tribune News Service)  Israels ambassador to the United Nations often fights with the organization where he serves, especially as criticism has mounted over his countrys conduct in the war against Hamas. Hes just not used to doing it without the U.S. in his corner.

Thats where Gilad Erdan found himself recently when the U.S. chose not to veto a Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. President Joe Bidens administration had blocked several such resolutions since the conflict began.

To this council, Israeli blood is cheap, Erdan told the council after the councils vote. This is a travesty, and Im disgusted.

They were relatively mild remarks for Erdan, 53, who has made it a strategy to tear down the U.N. as the Gaza war has dragged on. He called on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to resign after the U.N. chief said the Hamas attack did not happen in a vacuum, and this week Erdan said Adolf Hitler would be singing the U.N.s praises.

His approach to the global body has become an increasingly risky and dissonant one as the Palestinian death toll continues to rise. Even the U.S. has seen its close ties with Israel fray, with Biden calling out Israel more often over the need for more humanitarian aid, the Israeli attack that killed seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus plans for a military operation in Rafah, where more than 1 million civilians are sheltering.

Erdans two main tasks are to score public points against Israels detractors and to delegitimize criticism from all parts of the U.N. system, said Richard Gowan, U.N. director for the International Crisis Group. Israels strategy of dismissing the U.N. completely does alienate a lot of otherwise broadly sympathetic countries, notably the Europeans.

The ambassadors tactics encapsulate an element of Israels strategy in the months since fighters from Hamas  designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and European Union  attacked Israel from the south on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking some 240 hostages. Israels counter-attack has killed more than 30,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.

U.N. members have yet to act jointly to condemn the Hamas attack. But rather than seeking sympathy, Erdan has deployed an uncompromising approach toward fellow diplomats and the world body.

Two U.N. diplomats from countries with close ties to Israel, who asked not to be identified discussing Erdan, said that its becoming increasingly hard for their ambassadors to appear alongside him. Two others suggested his attacks on the U.N. system alienate moderate U.N. members.

Erdan, who briefly served as ambassador in Washington, is blunt about the U.S. While praising close ties with Washington as one of the biggest assets that Israel has, he said in an interview that its not being understood enough that the relationship is mutually beneficial. He said Israeli military technologies and intelligence-gathering in the Middle East help protect U.S. troops.

Israel has long accused the U.N. of bias in favor of the Palestinian cause. Erdan describes the world body as a politicized institution where Israel is outnumbered and out-voted by non-democracies and a large bloc of Muslim countries. In the past decade, the General Assembly has adopted about 230 critical resolutions concerning Israel, more than five times the number of texts on Russia, Iran or Myanmar, according to a tally compiled by Bloomberg News.

In addition to the failure of U.N. members to formally condemn the attack by Hamas, Israel has alleged that employees of the U.N.s main relief agency in the Palestinian territories actually participated in the attack, prompting a review.

Yellow star

Yet Israels conduct of the war has left Erdan increasingly open to criticism. U.N. agencies have called for an end to the fighting and warned of man-made famine in Gaza, while a U.N.-appointed expert has accused Israel of genocide.

Erdan  a veteran politician who served as Israels minister of public security and previously led an effort to counter activists targeting Israel with a boycott, divestment and sanctions campaign  has fought back. Early in the Gaza conflict, he pinned a yellow star to the lapel of his suit, like those the Nazis once forced Jews to wear.

I am left with no other choice, he said, than to find creative ways  some might call them shocking ways, I dont care  but to draw the attention of the civilized world to what the Israeli people are enduring.

The move was condemned by the head of the Yad Vashem Holocaust remembrance center in Jerusalem, who said it dishonors both the victims of the Holocaust and the State of Israel. In November, Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun, while presiding over the Security Council, interrupted Erdans fiery speech on the war to remind him to please show some basic respect.

Israel squandered the sympathy and solidarity after October 7th by carrying out a horrific, unprecedented war of destruction on Gaza, said Khaled Elgindy, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute in Washington who previously advised Palestinian leaders. And they cannot understand how the world does not see the reality exactly as they see it.

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Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving Newman in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 11, 2024. (Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery )

The remains of U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving R. Newman, killed in action in 1943, were buried with full military honors Thursday at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, performed the ceremony. A U.S. flag was presented to Newmans nephew, Edwin Wurster, during the funeral service.

Newman, a native of Los Angeles, was assigned to the 343d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy), 9th Air Force.

On May 6, 1943, Newman and nine other crew members of a B-24D Liberator were flying a bombing mission at Reggio di Calabria harbor in Sicily. While heading to the target, the plane experienced engine failure, forcing the pilots to make a course correction away from the main bomber group and directly into enemy anti-aircraft fire. During an emergency landing, the plane caught fire and crashed into the water near Benghajsa Point, Malta.

Nine airmen survived. Newman could not be rescued, and he was declared unrecoverable after the war.

Recently, the University of Malta and a private company located the wreckage of a B-24D near Benghajsa Point at a depth of 180 feet. Beginning in 2018, a partner organization supported by DPAA archaeology recovered material evidence, life support equipment and suspected human remains from the crash site.

To identify Newmans remains, scientists from DPAA used anthropological analysis. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA and dental analysis.

Newman was accounted for by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency on June 20, 2023.

A firing party from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) fires three rifle volleys during military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving Newman in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 11, 2024. (Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery )

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving Newman in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 11, 2024. (Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery )

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving Newman in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 11, 2024. (Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery )

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving Newman in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 11, 2024. (Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery )

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Air Forces Sgt. Irving Newman in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Apr. 11, 2024. (Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery )
Military families participate in the Month of the Military Child Parade at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., April 12, 2024. The parade was held to honor and celebrate military children. There are more than 1.6 million children serving alongside service members, who move on average every two to three years. (Lauren Cobin/U.S. Air Force)

WASHINGTON  A 15% pay raise for junior enlisted service members. No more referrals for physical therapy, optometry, womens health and other specialties. A basic allowance for housing that covers 100% of estimated costs.

Those are some of the recommendations of a panel of House lawmakers tasked with improving the quality of life for troops and their families as young service members in particular grapple with soaring living costs, substandard housing, limited access to child care, long wait times for medical care and spousal unemployment.

Such problems have plagued the military for years but lawmakers said they will push them to the forefront in the coming months as Congress crafts the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, an annual bill that sets priorities for the Pentagon.

We can no longer ignore the clear warning signs that more must be done to protect and preserve the all-volunteer force, said Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., the chairman of the panel. Its vital that we fix these quality-of-life issues.

The groups suggestions on how to do that stretch across 40 pages of a report unveiled Thursday. A proposal to increase basic pay by 15% for those between the ranks of E-1 and E-4 tops the list of recommendations.

The raise will help the military remain competitive with the civilian labor market and better match junior enlisted service member pay with civilian earnings for those with high school diplomas and some college, according to the report.

Lawmakers are also seeking improvements to other forms of compensation.

They want to see the Pentagon return coverage of the basic allowance for housing from 95% of calculated housing costs back to 100%, as it was from 2005 to 2016. The report also recommends expanding the authority to grant the allowance to junior sailors without dependents who are assigned to sea duty.

An adjustment is recommended for the basic allowance for subsistence, a monthly, flat amount that supplements food costs for troops. The panel said the Defense Department should factor in location and number of dependents when calculating the allowance.

About 25% of service members lack reliable access to affordable and nutritious food, according to 2023 report by the Rand Corp. Military spouses told lawmakers in September that they were embarrassed to use federal food-purchasing assistance programs at the commissary and described relying on local food banks.

Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., a member of the quality-of-life panel, said 45,000 members of the military community in San Diego  home to 110,000 active-duty troops  visit a food bank every month.

We here in Congress, we as a country, we have failed them, she said.

San Diego also experiences particularly acute child care shortages, with waitlists as long as 4,000 spots. The panels report notes the satisfaction rate of military child care is high but accessibility remains a significant challenge and a source of frustration for families.

The report recommends combating worker shortages by offering staff at the militarys child development centers free child care for their first child and authorizing the services to cover up to 100% of child care fees for additional children.

This gets, of course, more staff on the books in our child care centers, said Rep. Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania, the panels top Democrat. It opens available slots so classrooms and day care centers are not empty because they dont have staff and it therefore reduces wait time.

Lawmakers are also proposing higher pay rates for employees that are competitive with market rates in the surrounding area. Another recommendation calls for the Defense Department to fully fund child care fee assistance programs.

The department and the service branches are also being asked to be more forthcoming about housing infrastructure needs. During months of research, the panel discovered the services regularly request less funds than needed for aging facilities, Houlahan said.

It makes it really hard for us to see the full picture when people are sort of conditioned to ask for less than what they need, she said.

As a result, the panel is recommending budget requests meet 100% of maintenance and modernization requirements so we have a better idea, better data on what our shortfalls are and what our progress has been, Houlahan said.

The condition of unaccompanied housing is the groups main focus. This includes barracks, dormitories and short-term lodging, which are the default living spaces for single service members of junior ranks. A damning government watchdog report last year found seriously degraded facilities, with mold, sewage overflows, pest infestations, broken windows and door locks, and other deficiencies.

Members of the panel said there has been significant interest in privatizing unaccompanied housing facilities, almost all of which are government-owned, operated and maintained. Of the nearly 9,000 barracks and dorms, only seven are now privatized, according to the report.

The panel is recommending a thorough examination of whether privatized unaccompanied housing would fare better than traditional military-owned barracks. Separately, it wants to require each military service to study the feasibility of providing free wireless internet access in all unaccompanied housing.

Other recommendations concern access to health care and support for military spouses. Wait times for mental health providers and other specialists can stretch to weeks and the unemployment rate for military spouse remains stubbornly high at 22%.

The report proposes eliminating the need for referrals for appointments with specialists in physical therapy, nutrition, audiology, optometry, podiatry and womens health.

These are unnecessary obstacles that are bad, Houlahan said. Theyre bad for the care and the overall health of our force and frankly, the readiness of our force as well.

To aid military spouses, the panel recommends a permanent authorization of the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot. The program, now authorized for three years, places military spouses in paid 12-week fellowships across various industries.

More than 400 fellows completed the program last year and 85% were offered a permanent job with an average salary above $65,000, according to the report.

Lawmakers also want to give military spouses actively seeking employment expanded access to child care, doubling the length of time they can receive priority for programs from 90 days to 180 days.

Houlahan said the full spectrum of recommendations represented an absolute breakthrough for efforts to solve some of the militarys most chronic issues and a game-changer for our men and women in uniform.

Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, has vowed to push the reports proposals into law, calling them the foundation upon which the NDAA will be built.

We intend to get this [bill] across the finish line with these recommendations in it, he said. We are going to do whats in the report.
Former President Donald Trumps influence seems to be growing on congressional Republicans and 2024 candidates. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post)

House Republicans woke up Wednesday morning to an increasingly familiar circumstance: a social media decree from former president Donald Trump.

KILL FISA, Trump said after midnight on his Truth Social platform, referring to parts of the national security surveillance program that the chamber was preparing to consider renewing.

Hours later, a procedural vote to start the debate failed, with 19 Republicans joining Democrats to block it - and throwing its fate into question ahead of a looming deadline. Prospects for success were cloudy before Trump weighed in, but for supporters of the program - including embattled Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) - the former presidents intervention was anything but welcome.

I think it probably swayed people on the underlying bill, Rep. Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.) told reporters afterward. I mean, when the president weighs in on something, it moves votes in the U.S. House Republican Conference.

By Friday morning, a deal was on the table, but only after some conversations with Trump, according to House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) to shorten the measures time span, perhaps allowing the former president to overhaul the intelligence measure if hes reinstalled in the White House.

The House GOPs initial sinking of the national security vote, and the compromise, is only the latest sign congressional Republicans are falling in line more deeply behind Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, no matter how far his mercurial politics diverge from traditional GOP orthodoxy. Once staunch security hawks, some Republicans now routinely attack the FBI by claiming it spied on the Trump campaign. Once happy warriors against Russia, many now balk at sending money to arm Ukraine. Once strongly for border security and banning abortion, many found reasons to reject a tough immigration compromise and to soften their abortion stances along with Trump statements.

Sometimes Trump is echoing positions that Republicans in Congress already hold or are moving toward. But his ability to shift the political and policy winds is undeniable, hastening trends, setting fresh contours of debate or even helping to sink a bipartisan compromise (such as on immigration reform).

Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), a Trump critic before he ran for office who has become a loyalist, said Trumps influence is greater in the House than in the Senate because of the political incentives. House members face voters every two years instead of every six like in the Senate.

As the House gears up for a potential vote on Ukraine funding next week, Vance predicted that Trump will intervene. Im sure Trump will have influence, and Im sure that hell make his opinion known, Vance said.

For Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Trump out of office has become the fourth branch of government.

Raskin argued that one of the most alarming examples of congressional Republicans taking cues from Trump and quickly falling in line with him was the decision to scrap the launch of an independent and nonpartisan investigation of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot. His influence on the conference has only grown since, Raskin said.

Trumps impact on House Republicans will be on peak display Friday at Mar-a-Lago, where Speaker Johnson will hold a news conference with Trump centering on the former presidents favorite issues: immigration and alleged voting fraud.

Its unclear whether the speaker will get an explicit endorsement from Trump in his battle to remain atop the House. One of Trumps closest GOP allies, Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene (R-Ga.), is threatening to depose Johnson if he brings Ukraine aid to the floor, something Johnson has pledged to do. And Johnson doesnt have the same relationship with Trump as did the former House speaker, McCarthy, whom he called My Kevin.

McCarthy played down Trumps influence on legislation during an appearance Tuesday at Georgetown University. Citing Ukraine aid and border security, a student asked McCarthy, Do you see a single individuals power to effectively derail bipartisan consensus-building as a threat to the functioning of our legislative branch of government?

Well, you would say then Trump has the power of what comes to the floor or not, McCarthy responded. Its the speaker that has the power. And I dont know who influenced the speaker [on those issues]. Maybe Trump did or not.

Whether Trump is the decisive factor in every issue is up for debate, and other Republicans also downplay his influence as Democrats portray him as the Houses puppet master.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said Trumps clout legislatively is way overblown and certainly not determinative of legislative outcomes. President Trump has a great deal of influence over candidates in a primary, Johnson qualified.

One thing is clear, however: Trump looms larger than ever over congressional Republicans and 2024 candidates as he seeks a return to the White House.

On the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a far-right bloc of House Republicans was already angered by what it views as abuses of U.S. intelligence agencies powers. Before Trumps statement, right-wing lawmakers may have already tanked the procedural motion to start floor debate on renewing Section 702 and related measures, which allow surveillance of noncitizens abroad. Trumps social media post, however, didnt help the measures chances.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), for instance, responded to Trump on Wednesday morning with an assurance.

We are killing FISA, she said on X.

Trumps long-awaited statement on abortion, delivered Monday, also clashed with some congressional Republicans and candidates who have endorsed a national ban at a specific number of weeks. Trump has boasted that he appointed the Supreme Court justices who helped overturn Roe v. Wade but said the issue is now up to the states and declined to back a national abortion ban.

Asked to comment on Trumps statement, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) shrugged off his previous position as unrealistic.

I support a 15-week ban, but thats not going to pass, Hawley (R-Mo.) said. Lets just be realistic. Thats not going to get 60 votes [in the Senate]. Lets let people decide. Let voters vote.

In Arizona, Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake - a staunch Trump ally running in one of the most closely watched Senate races - has wholly flipped her abortion stance, reversing her previous support for an 1864 ban revived this week by the states Supreme Court. While Lake said in 2022 that the archaic bill should be reinstated, on Tuesday she called on Gov. Katie Hobbs (D), her 2022 opponent, to come up with an immediate common-sense solution to the court ruling.

On abortion, long before Trumps latest statement, the National Republican Senatorial Committee was urging its candidates to oppose a national ban and support certain exceptions, despite some of their past positions. Trumps statement only served to give them more cover.

I agree with President Trump that the issue of abortion should be decided at the state level, Mike Rogers, the NRSC- and Trump-backed candidate for Senate in Michigan, said in a statement. The people of Michigan spoke in a loud and clear voice in 2022, and I will take no action as their voice in Washington that is at odds with the Michigan Constitution.

Rogers is a former House member who once supported near-total abortion bans there, but the political winds have shifted since then, especially after Michigan voters enshrined abortion rights in the state constitution two years ago.

Some Republicans bristle at the idea Trump is guiding them. On the border deal, for example, some argue they already disagreed with the substance of the legislation before Trump weighed in against it.

Nonetheless, when Trump railed against the deal, it quickly fell apart in the Senate.

The deal was partly negotiated by Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) and included new asylum restrictions that were previously viewed as unacceptable to Democrats. Still, Trump bashed it as a horrible open borders betrayal of America, and within days, Senate Republicans backed away from the package.

[Trump] was making a very astute observation that this Senate bill was a terrible bill, but we knew that, said Rep. Mike Garcia, a Republican who represents a battleground district in California. We dont need him to tell us that.

On Ukraine aid, Trumps skepticism is well-established - and it has attracted a growing following among House Republicans. He has specifically called on congressional Republicans to block a new aid package for Ukraine unless it comes in the form of a loan.

Johnson is considering the idea as he debates whether to put a foreign aid package on the floor.

Trump has continued to emphasize that Congress should put America first, an attitude echoed by many House Republicans who believe the United States should prioritize security of its own borders and have even suggested Ukraines war effort is a lost cause. Trumps influence on Ukraine has been a big obstacle to Johnsons putting a package on the House floor, and prompted Greenes threats to topple him.

Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.), during a Fox Business appearance Tuesday, said the United States is probably not going to really save Ukraine, lets face it.

Were not writing them off, but are you willing to essentially write off America and Americas border to send $65 billion to Ukraine for which were never going to see anything come back from and were not going to see a victory for? Perry said.

Trumps posture toward Ukraine aid has also permeated congressional primaries, especially the upcoming contests in Indiana. Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.), the first Ukrainian-born immigrant to serve in the U.S. Congress, faces a well-funded challenger who is accusing her of putting Ukraine first, while former Rep. John Hostettler (R-Ind.) is making a comeback bid with a pitch to end Ukraine aid.

Donald Trump needs backup in Congress to save America, a narrator says in one pro-Hostettler TV ad, later adding that Hostettler will fight to  end the billions in foreign aid to corrupt countries like Ukraine.

Leigh Ann Caldwell contributed to this report
A $500,000 remediation project has been launched at the Veterans Memorial Home at Menlo Park to address the apparent growth of mold behind the walls of the state-operated nursing home. (Ed Murray, nj.com/TNS)

(Tribune News Service)  Widely criticized for failing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 that killed 200 inside the states three nursing homes for veterans, the Murphy administration on Wednesday outlined its plans to spend millions of dollars in improvements and create a new agency focused on veterans health.

I have said many times: the more eyes on our veterans homes, the better. I mean that. We have been scrutinized more than any of the other long-term care facilities in New Jersey, Maj. General Lisa Hou, the commissioner for the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs told the state Assembly Budget Committee in Trenton.

Under the glare of that scrutiny, however, the veterans homes in Edison Paramus and Vineland have met inspection standards over the last two years, Hou said.

New Jersey is not only moving decisively to improve our veterans homes. We are investing more than we ever have to support service members, veterans, and their families, she said during an hour-long hearing on Gov. Phil Murphys proposed $262.8 million departments budget for the next fiscal year.

Budget committee members reminded Hou of the U.S. Justice Departments investigation that concluded the state failed to implement adequate infection control protocols, provide adequate clinical care, and provide oversight of the facilities in a manner that keeps the residents of the Veterans Homes safe from harm, according to a report issued in September.

One worker described the situation (during the height of the pandemic) in Paramus as pure hell, the report noted. Another described Menlo Park as a battlefield.

The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the federal agency that oversees long-term care facilities, fined New Jersey $340,000 for the numerous health and safety violations at Menlo Park $340,000. The state appealed, and in February paid the slightly reduced fine of $289,242 in February, according to an analysis of the departments budget by the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services.

The state also paid $24,643 in fines for violations at the Paramus and Vineland veterans homes, the analysis said.

Hou, whom Murphy appointed to replace Brigadier General Jemal J. Beale in October 2020 after the deadly first wave, pointed out the Department of Justices report focused on the Paramus and Menlo Park performance from 2020-22. It does not reflect the positive inspections since that time, she said. We believe we are doing better.

Behind the scenes, the department, Gov. Phil Murphys office and legislators are working with McKInsey & Co. to draft legislation that would split the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs into two agencies  one new devoted to veterans and the other to the active military. Sen. Joseph Vitale, D- Middlesex, who plans to co-sponsor legislation to create the new agencies, has said the legislation will be ready for introduction later in the spring.

Heres what the Murphy Administration has spent or suggests spending on the veterans homes:

$21 million to convert dual-occupancy rooms to single rooms to prevent the spread of infection. (The federal government will pay $49 million to complete the $60 million job).

$1.4 million to buy new beds and mattresses at the veterans homes, each of which will serve no more than 200 veterans and their spouses.

$1.3 million has been spent to remove mold at the Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home, which officials initially denied was mold and described as a discoloration.

Although an overall price tag was not immediately available, 333 direct care workers have received promotions and wage increases ranging from 4.6% to 29.2%, with an average increase of 9.6%, according to department spokeswoman Lt. Col. Agneta Murnan.

These increases are game changers, Hou testified. For decades, our Veterans homes were unable to compete with the private sector for top-tier talent. Today and going forward, we can do just that.

$600,000 to buy medical equipment.

The department has also implemented an electronic medical records systems for all three veterans homes and introduced a learning management system to provide staff with thousands of hours of training and continuing education, Hou said.

A recent 910-page report analyzing how the Murphy administration handled the pandemic acknowledged the substantial reforms have been made to Veterans Homes in New Jersey, with additional changes being implemented. But the authors criticized the wholly inadequate infection controls at Menlo Park and Paramus and singled out the Menlo Park CEO for advis(ing) staff not to wear masks, contradicting prevailing expert opinions.

Accused in lawsuits of gross negligence and incompetence over its handling of the outbreak, the state paid nearly $53 million in 2021 to the families of 119 residents whose deaths were attributed to the coronavirus in the early days of the pandemic. A second $15.9 million settlement was reached in August 2022, resolving the claims of an additional 71 families.

NJ Advance Media Staff Writer Ted Sherman contributed to this report.

slivio@njadvancemedia.com.

2024 Advance Local Media LLC.

Visit nj.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
National Assembly (NA) Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang and two senior leaders of the countries attended the event.

In his speech at the event, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang congratulated Vietjet on its 10-year journey of connecting and expanding the Vietnam-China flight network and the new Ho Chi Minh City-Xi'an route.

He believes that the carrier will launch more flights between the two countries, helping promote bilateral trade, mutual understanding and support, and deepening the Vietnam-China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

Since the first flight in 2014, Vietjet has so far carried more than 12 million passengers on all routes connecting Vietnam's political, economic, cultural and tourist centers and nearly 50 popular destinations throughout China, contributing to deepening and enhancing the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

At the event, Vietjet also announced the opening of direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Xian from this summer, with just over 4 hours for each route and 4 round-trip flights per week.

Flights connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Xian not only meet the travel and cultural exchange needs of people and tourists, and expand trade between Ho Chi Minh City and the Northwest region, China, but show Vietjet's continuous development in the Chinese market./.
Apprentice carpenter Jamie Moss (21) and Sarah Jane Byrne (35) were charged after detectives stopped a car on the Old Navan Road in Dublin 15 and recovered a pistol and ammunition.

Jamie Moss was driving on Old Navan Road when his car was stopped and searched by gardai. Photo: Paddy Cummins

Sarah Jane Byrne is charged with possession of firearms and ammunition. Photo: Paddy Cummins

A man and woman charged after a seizure of firearms and ammunition in Dublin have consented to a lengthy adjournment for DPPs directions on the charges.

Apprentice carpenter Jamie Moss (21) and Sarah Jane Byrne (35) were charged after detectives stopped a car on the Old Navan Road in Dublin 15 and recovered a pistol and ammunition.

During further searches, gardai uncovered a sub-machine gun, a sawn-off shotgun and more ammunition.

The two, whose addresses cannot be published due to security concerns, are accused of possession of a semi-automatic gun and a round of ammunition for unlawful purposes at the Old Navan Road on February 16 this year.

Ms Byrne is further charged with having a submachine gun, a sawn-off shotgun and 27 rounds of ammunition under her control at her home in Dublin.

Judge David McHugh adjourned the cases for three months for the DPPs directions on the charges.

Jamie Moss was driving on Old Navan Road when his car was stopped and searched by gardai. Photo: Paddy Cummins

Blanchardstown District Court previously heard that Mr Moss was driving a Ford Focus, which was stopped and searched on the Old Navan Road. His co-accused was in the passenger seat.

Detective Garda Kelly said that a full investigation was underway including the examination of CCTV footage and DNA analysis.

Detective Garda Mark Ferris said a Makarov pistol was in cling-film, in a plastic bag, wrapped in a scarf in the car.

Gda Ferris said gardai conducted a follow-up search at Ms Byrnes home. He alleged that a sawn-off shotgun, sub-machine gun and ammunition were hidden under the stairs in her house.

The court heard claims that Ms Byrne admitted taking possession of them, stripping them down, cleaning them and re-wrapping them.

Sergeant Maria Callaghan said the DPPs directions were outstanding on the charges.

Defence lawyers Ciaran MacLoughlin and Terence Hanahoe said there was consent to a lengthy adjournment
I felt it was strange because there were a lot of seats around, he could have sat anywhere but he chose to sit beside me, she said.

A MAN who sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl on a Dublin bus said the victim was a show-off who was by herself on the top deck, sitting "like she was in a bar."

Victor Baluta (38) looked the teenager up and down, followed her upstairs, sat close beside her and put his hand on her thigh, a court heard.

He thought she was alone but her mother was downstairs and confronted him when her daughter returned, upset.

Finding him guilty, Judge John Hughes said he did not believe Baluta's denial that he touched the girl, and there were plenty of empty seats he could have sat in.

He adjourned the case at Dublin District Court for a victim impact statement before sentencing.

Baluta, of Faussagh Road, Cabra, had pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting the girl on a bus in the north of the city on August 1 last year.

The girl said she got on the bus ahead of her mother and saw Baluta.

He looked at me weirdly, like he wanted to do something, she said.

When she went upstairs, Baluta followed and sat directly beside her.

I felt it was strange because there were a lot of seats around, he could have sat anywhere but he chose to sit beside me, she said.

I had a gut feeling something wasnt right, she said. He was basically sitting right on top of me. I felt something on my right leg - it was his hand. He took his left hand and kind of placed it onto my upper thigh.

Her legs were crossed and he touched her leg outside her trousers.

She panicked and did not know what to do.

He was spreading his legs, getting really close to me and I was getting really uncomfortable, she said. His whole body was shifting towards me.

After around 10 minutes, she got up and went downstairs. Her mother asked her if someone had done something they shouldnt. The girls whole body was shaking and she started crying.

She told the court it was not uncommon for me to get stares and previously, men had winked at her, cat-called her and put their arms around her waist.

The mother said she saw Baluta staring at her daughters breasts before he almost immediately went upstairs after her. When her daughter returned upset, she confronted Baulta who said am I not allowed to touch my own leg?" before leaving the scene.

Garda Kevin Bambrick said the accused was traced from his Leap card which he had tapped.

In garda interview and in evidence, Baluta denied deliberately looking at the girl as she got on, or touching her. He did not see her mother.

He said he sat down beside the girl to avoid other people getting on and sitting next to him, and he had no intention of touching her.

Asked why he sat down beside the only juvenile on the bus, he told gardai: she doesnt look it, I couldnt have known she was 15.

He said he had a bag on his lap and his hands were on the sides of his own legs.

With the movement of the bus he may have touched the girl accidentally and If I touched her I apologise.

When she got up, I knew she was going to go down and tell her mum, he told gardai.

Asked how he knew this, he claimed in court he had the gift of an extra sense that he inherited from a dead aunt.

I shouldnt have sat down beside her, he said. Asked if he found her attractive, he said no and told gardai: If she was attractive I could have touched her.

Explaining this, he told the court he had been in pain in the garda station and his answers were out of character.

He also told gardai: Lets be real here, why is she sitting upstairs on her own and her mother downstairs? If I had a child I would sit with them.

He said she was a show-off with her legs sitting like that like she was in a bar or a pub.

Defence barrister Vanessa Frawley argued there was no evidence of a sexual assault.

Perhaps he should not have sat down beside her and a free seat would have been better, but would have been better is not enough to find someone criminally liable for sexual assault, she said.

Judge Hughes said he did not accept Baluta's evidence which had been bizarre, illogical and incredible.

This is not a case where people were packed like sardines on a Luas and touching up against each other, the judge said.

The accused thought the girl was alone, followed her and sat next to her when there were plenty of other seats. Baluta had no previous convictions.
The woman told the court violence escalated and it was all down to the fact that I couldnt bear to have him near me anymore

A judge has told a man that his ex-partner is not your property and "no means no" after finding that the man punched and head-butted her after she refused to have sex him on different dates.

At Kilrush District Court, Judge Alec Gabbett found the man guilty of three assaults against his now ex-partner and three breaches of a Safety Order she had obtained against him.

The couple have a number of children together and in evidence the woman told the court: "I do know that most of the arguments in the house were escalated by him because I was refusing to have sex a lot towards the end of the relationship.

She said the arguments escalated and "it was mostly around sex and me refusing to have sex.

The woman told the court violence escalated and it was all down to the fact that I couldnt bear to have him near me anymore.

The woman alleged that in September 2022 in two incidents, the man punched her in the back and head butted her after she refused to have sex.

The couple were not married and now live apart and in evidence the man denied ever striking the woman. He said: I love the girl - we have children together.

The man in his late 30s and with no previous convictions said: I never hit the girl. I never hit a man before. I socialised in Ennis for 20 years and I was never in trouble.

He added: I never hit that girl, or pulled her hair or head butted her. If I head-butted her in the head, she would have two black eyes.

The man said that the couple's arguments were about money.

However, Judge Gabbett found that the womans evidence was very credible.

He said: It is consistent and the common threads where initiating sex or money leads to a row and an assault.

He said: This was a semi-coercive or coercive relationship in my view."

Judge Gabbett said that it was very difficult for a woman to talk about sex from a private relationship in a courtroom setting.

Addressing the man, Judge Gabbett said: No means no and consent comes into it. If it is not handled the way you want to she will find herself getting a punch or a head-butt.

Judge Gabbett told the man: This notion that you love her and that you can touch her is completely misguided. She is not your property."

Judge Gabbett told the man: There is a reason Gardai came to your home within 20 minutes because there is the history of you assaulting your partner quite seriously."

He said: I dont know if you appreciate the gravity of the Gardai coming out within 20 minutes to your home - it is because they are very concerned about your partner and your children.

Judge Gabbett told the man that there are very serious criminal proceedings against you now and said that he would order a Probation Report.

Judge Gabbett suggested that the man engage with MOVE or (Men Overcoming Violence) before the next court date.

Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to June 18th for the Probation Report to be carried out.
The matter was put back, with the agreement of the womans legal team, to a jury callover on May 30, at which point it should be given a new hearing date.

The hearing of a womans multi-million-euro civil damages claim against mixed martial arts (MMA) star Conor McGregor, in which she alleges she suffered personal injuries as a result of an assault, has been delayed.

The case had been scheduled to go before a High Court jury on the week commencing April 23.

However, that date was this week vacated by Mr Justice Alexander Owens following an application from Mr McGregors legal team.

The matter was put back, with the agreement of the womans legal team, to a jury callover on May 30, at which point it should be given a new hearing date.

A trial is now likely to be listed for hearing in late June or early July.

The lawsuit against McGregor (35) relates to events alleged to have taken place at a Dublin hotel in 2018. The case was initiated in 2021.

McGregor has denied any wrongdoing and has filed a full defence. The details of the womans claim have yet to be outlined in open court.

However, it is known the matter was previously the subject of a garda investigation, after which the Director of Public Prosecutions decided there should be no prosecution.

Hearings held to date in the case have been largely procedural.

In 2022, the High Court made orders for the discovery of material gathered as part of the garda probe.

Under the terms of the orders, gardai were to disclose statements made to them, as well as any results of medical toxicology, technical or forensic analysis generated during the investigation.

The disclosure of CCTV stills or photographs taken from various locations in Dublin was also ordered.

These included images from the exterior of the Goat Bar and Grill, a hair salon, an in-taxi camera, and from the Beacon Hotel and its surrounds taken between the evening of December 8 and 8am on December 10, 2018. Orders were also made for the disclosure of data from mobile phones interrogated in the course of the investigation.

A separate lawsuit, a smaller claim for personal injuries, was also filed in 2021 by the womans mother. However, that case has yet to be progressed to trial.

An associate of Mr McGregor is named as a co-defendant in both lawsuits.

Both women are being represented by Coleman Legal, while McGregors solicitors are Michael J Staines & Company.
The man is currently detained at a Garda station on the northside of the city

One man in his 30s has been arrested by gardai in Dublin after a mammoth seizure of cannabis jellies on Thursday.

Gardai in Ballymun uncovered the huge haul of cannabis jellies and cannabis herb during a search operation in Santry, Dublin 9.

The operation began at approximately 1pm on Thursday afternoon when Gardai conducted a search under warrant at a property on the northside of the city.

Seized substances

During the course of the search suspected cannabis jellies with an estimated value of 38,000 was seized.

A vacuum packing machine and the distinct cannabis jellies packaging was also discovered within the property.

Suspected cannabis herb valued at 27,000 was also seized during the course of the search operation.

Packed drugs

"All suspected drugs are subject to analysis by Forensic Science Ireland (FSI), said a garda spokesperson.

The man arrested at the scene is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996 at a Garda station in North Dublin.

Investigations are ongoing, gardai added.
On top of that, five designer watches  including one Tag Heuer and four Rolex watches  were discovered alongside other designer goods valued at approximately 25,000.

Some of the motorbikes seized

Some of the bikes seized by gardai.

Gardai conducted a massive day of action on Thursday by seizing a huge number of motorbikes, drugs and cash.

Two people were arrested during the course of the operation in Dublin.

Gardai from the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) South and DMR West Divisions targeted electric motorbikes suspected of being used in criminal activity.

Nineteen search teams, comprising 120 members of An Garda Siochana, searched 40 properties in total.

Gardai seized 10 Surron electric motorbikes with values ranging from 4,000 - 10,000, 12 motorbikes and scramblers as well as 12 electric bikes and e-scooters.

Three quad bikes and a jet-ski and trailer  valued at approximately 10,000  were confiscated. Gardai seized 42,950 in cash and 8,000 worth of suspected cocaine and cannabis.

On top of that, five designer watches  including one Tag Heuer and four Rolex watches  were discovered alongside other designer goods valued at approximately 25,000.

The two people were arrested as part of the garda operation conducted by specialist units from An Garda Siochana assisted including the Armed Support Unit, the National Dog Unit, the Dublin Crime Response Team and Special Tactics and Operational Command (STOC).

Some of the motorbikes seized

A garda spokesperson said: In December 2023, Operation Meacan commenced in the DMR South and is led by the Divisional Serious Crime Unit with support from the Community Engagement Unit and Community Policing Unit based in Tallaght, and the Divisional Roads Policing Unit.

The aim of Operation Meacan is to tackle the use of electric motorbikes which are being used for criminal activity including drug dealing, money laundering, transporting firearms, Drug Related Intimidation (DRI) and other serious offences.

These electric motorbikes are often driven on footpaths, parks and laneways in order to avoid detection by An Garda Siochana.

Since the commencement of Operation Meacan in December 2023 a total of 53 electric motorbikes with a combined value of approximately 300,000 have been seized.

Over 80,000 in cash which is understood to be the proceeds of criminal activity has also been seized by gardai.

Investigations into the criminal activity are ongoing.
Claims have been made this week that Christian Brueckner carried out naked robberies

Christian Brueckner is led into a German court where he is to stand trial on sex abuse charges. Photo: AP

Christian Brueckner, centre, stands next to his lawyers during his trial at Braunschweig district court (Julian Stratenschulte/dpa via AP)

The top cop hired by the family of Madeleine McCann may be required to give evidence in support of the chief suspect in the abduction.

Christian Brueckner is currently on trial over a string of sex attacks in Portugal, one of which occurred just weeks before Madeleine went missing in 2007.

Now Brueckners lawyer wants to call Detective David Edgar to give evidence in the trial as a witness claims she was told by Brueckner that Madeleine didnt scream during the alleged abduction.

It is believed that Mr Edgar has no knowledge of this witnesss claims, which puts their statement in major doubt.

Mr Edgar told the Mirror that he never dealt with the alleged witness: I know that 100 per cent. It was not my job to speak to people directly.

It was like a police incident room. Callers were on the system whether information was relevant or not. I dont have the records now. I handed everything over to the Metropolitan Police lock, stock and barrel.

Christian Brueckner sits in the courtroom in Germany. Photo: AP

If I am called it would not be very pleasant but I would have to do it and give evidence. It will be down to the judge, Mr Edgar said.

Brueckner, already serving seven years for a 2019 conviction for rape, is on trial for a string indecent exposure claims on top of rape allegations.

The court heard this week how Brueckner was allegedly part of a paedophile ring that terrified his friends.

Nadia P, who used to live in Praia da Luz, said she heard about sick rape tapes uncovered by Brueckner's associates.

It is claimed one video showed Brueckner wearing a mask as he raped an elderly lady and a girl as young as 13.

Missing Madeleine McCann and suspect Christian Brueckner

Another witness claimed Brueckner "boasted" about an attack to him while the two men were serving an eight-month prison sentence in 2006 for stealing fuel.

Michael Tatschl (50) was giving evidence when he added that the suspect was into "sado-masochism" and kept handcuffs, a whip and a balaclava "with a small slit" at home, saying: "I don't know anyone with a balaclava like it and there was one long whip - 30-40cm long - with long leather bits."

The 50-year-old also said Brueckner had boasted about breaking into and burgling holiday homes in Portugal while naked.

Christian Brueckner is led into a German court where he is to stand trial on sex abuse charges. Photo: AP

Tatschl said: "Once, he told me he broke in and three teenage girls were sleeping in the living room... And he was naked. One of them woke up when a phone rang and screamed.

"The girl's father heard the scream and came, so Christian had to run and jump off a balcony and run away.

"He burgled naked quite a few times because he did not want to leave a trace."

Brueckner, who stashed stolen goods in his home according to the witness, allegedly picked on British tourists in Portugal as they tended to keep large quantities of cash in their accommodation whilst on holidays.
Countrys attorney general says demand for money is hindering probe into death

Caroline and Aisling Dwyer are fighting for justice over the death of Tipperary man Michael Dwyer

The family of Irishman Michael Dwyer, shot dead by special forces police in Bolivia 15 years ago, have hit out at a campaign of disinformation from the South American government.

It comes after the Bolivias top lawyer claimed the Dwyer familys $2m compensation claim had made it impossible to comply with recommendations from the Inter America Commission of Human Rights (IACHR).

The unarmed 24-year-old from Tipperary was summarily executed by officers in a scandal that has dogged Bolivian authorities since 2009.

Their governments claim he died in a shoot-out during a failed plot to assassinate President Evo Morles has been strongly challenged by his family.

Caroline and Aisling Dwyer are fighting for justice over the death of Tipperary man Michael Dwyer

They brought a case to the IACHR in a bid to force a full criminal investigation into the police operation in which Dwyer was killed along with two other men.

The Bolivian attorney general, Cesar Adalid Siles Bazan, told local media that the process had been held up by the compensation claim.

In response, a Dwyer family spokesperson told the Sunday World: The 16th of April, 2024, marks the 15th anniversary of the murder of Michael Dwyer by the Bolivian State.

The Dwyer family continue to seek justice through the process provided under the Inter American Commission of Human Rights.

As such, the family is bound by the confidentiality of the IACHR process and cannot make any comment on any aspect of the detail being considered under this process.

It is very disappointing and hurtful to the family, especially as a significant anniversary of Michaels murder approaches, that representatives of the Bolivian State appear to have stepped outside their confidentiality obligations, and are sharing disinformation to media in respect of the IACHR process.

Cesar Adalid Siles recently told local media outlet El Deber: What has hindered us and possibly makes it impossible for us to comply with all the recommendations is the financial compensation.

Michael Dwyer

For the death of Mr. Dwyer, the family is asking for two million dollars. That is a lot of money for the Bolivian State.

To avoid a trial at the IACHR the Bolivian government has to comply with a number of recommendations, including compensation and also a full investigation surrounding the case.

Michael Dwyers mother Caroline has fought to find justice for her son since his killing at Hotel Las Americas in Santa Cruz.

A post-mortem by the former Irish State pathologist, Marie Cassidy, found that Dwyer was fatally shot before being shot a four more times.

Her analysis concluded that Michael could not have been engaged in a shootout, Caroline told an Oireachtas committee in January 2017.

The bullet went straight through his heart and damaged his lung and when he lay dead or dying he was shot four more times in the back. He was in bed wearing nothing but his underwear, there is no doubt he was summarily executed.

The Irish government and the European Union have both accepted the pathologists findings.

I know my son, he had no ulterior moves, we are not a political family and Michael was not political. He would have no interest or knowledge of Bolivian politics.
"One of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have ever heard of

An heroic 85-year-old woman has killed an intruder with her Magnum revolver, whilst tied to a chair, after he attacked her in the middle of the night.

The elderly lady was threatened, hit, handcuffed to a seat and shot repeatedly during the horrifying incident in the US on March 13.

The home invasion happened at 2 a.m. in Bingham County, Idaho, at a rural address. US cops identified the 85-year-old woman on Wednesday as Christine Jenneiahn.

The dead suspect was identified in March as Derek Ephriam Condon (39). It is understood the two were not known to each other in what was a random, sick assault.

Prosecutors have chalked Condons death down as justifiable homicide based on all available evidence

Jenneiahn was sleeping in her Bingham County home off 134 West 600 North, according to reports. The only other person in the house was her adult disabled son, David Jenneiahn, who was asleep.

Condon entered the home dressed in a military jacket and a black ski mask, pointing a gun and holding a flashlight. He bound the pensioner with handcuffs before assaulting her.

Subsequent investigation indicates a strong likelihood that Condon struck Jenneiahn in the head as she lay in her bed, according to prosecutors, who discovered blood all over the womans pillow.

After taking her at gunpoint into the living room, Condon handcuffed her to a wooden chair. He asked her where the valuables were kept and put his pistol against her head after she told him she didnt have much, reports East Idaho News.

Condon searched the house for cash and jewellery whilst threatening to kill the victim. But as he was doing that, the elderly lady shimmied sideways and grabbed her gun while handcuffed.

Crime scene (KIFI local news8)

One of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of, said a police spokesperson.

When Condon went downstairs again at some point, Jenneiahn dragged the chair she was handcuffed to into her bedroom and got her .357 Magnum revolver, which was under her pillow.

She then went back into the living room and hid the revolver between the armrest and cushion of a couch next to where she was sitting while she waited to see what Condon did next.

Her memory of exactly what happened next remains somewhat unclear, they added.

Jenneiahn ultimately made the decision that it was now or never and drew her gun and engaged Condon, striking him with both her shots. Officials told East Idaho News.

She shot the intruder once in the chest with the extremely powerful Magnum revolver.

Condon emptied a 9mm pistol at the bound woman, hitting her multiple times in her hip, leg, arm and chest.

Condon then crawled into the kitchen, where he died in a pool of blood.

Badly injured Jenneiahn fell to the ground, still handcuffed, where she remained for nearly 11 hours.

Her disabled son came to her rescue eventually and managed to call emergency services.

Derek Condon

The law in Idaho regarding self-defense is clear, according to Chief Prosecutor Jolley who wrote No person in this state shall be placed in legal jeopardy of any kind whatsoever for protecting himself 

He found in a review of the case that an individual acting in self-defense is not required to wait until he or she ascertains whether the danger is apparent or real.

This case presents an easy analysis of self-defense and justifiable homicide. It also presents one of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of.

Any reasonable person would believe it necessary to defend themselves or their disabled child under such circumstances.

Jolley said the fact that Jenneiahn survived the encounter is truly incredible.

The Prosecutor said that her "grit, determination and will to live appear to be what saved her that night.

Had Derek Condon survived, I would be charging him with multiple felonies, including attempted murder, kidnapping, burglary, aggravated battery and grand theft, Jolley added.

The Bingham County Sheriffs Office released in a post on social media, We wish to make it clear that our intention is not to defame the name of the suspect involved or make a tragedy for his family worse.

We are simply releasing the facts of the case and explaining that there was a victim involved that displayed heroism, fortitude, and a will to live that wed be remiss not to share.
Saoirse Smyth vanished in April 2017, initially presumed missing but now believed to be dead, leaving her close-knit west Belfast family shattered.

Saoirse Smyth from west Belfast who has been missing for more than seven years

Nicole last week with a picture of herself and Saoirse when they were inseparable pals being raised in the same house

Nicole Smyths life was turned upside down seven years ago when she realised the cousin she loved as a sister had disappeared.

Saoirse Smyth vanished in April 2017, initially presumed missing but now believed to be dead, leaving her close-knit west Belfast family shattered.

Saoirse had been living in Omeath, Co Louth, when she vanished without a trace.

The mystery over what happened to the troubled 29-year-old torments her familys every waking thoughts.

The impact of not knowing what happened to Saoirse has had life-changing effects on Nicole, who opens up about how she suffered a breakdown.

Nicole  who at 29 is the same age as her sister when she went missing  crumbled under the stress and heartbreak when she realised she would never see her best friend alive again.

The not knowing and the feeling of helplessness eventually became too much to cope with, resulting in her having a psychotic episode and being hospitalised for almost three months.

Today, speaking exclusively to the Sunday World, Nicole has the strength to talk about the impact of Saoirses disappearance on herself and her family and once again begs anyone with information to come forward.

We were raised up together, side by side, in the same house, she was my big sister, Nicole said.

Saoirse Smyth from west Belfast who has been missing for more than seven years

The impact of losing her has been massive, not just for me but my whole family, my granny especially. But it all became too much  the stress, worrying about my granny, not knowing what happened to Saoirse  it finally all became too much for me and I fell apart.

I took a psychotic breakdown, she says in a brave interview.

I was crying every day but thankfully I got the help I needed. When I was in the hospital I wrote Saoirse a letter in the arts and crafts room on her birthday on the 15th of December (2023) and finally accepted she was gone, admitted to myself that she is dead.

With the help of her family and medical advisors, Nicole is in a much stronger and happier place.

All she wants now is Saoirses body to be discovered and the countless questions she has answered.

Im doing good, yeah, really well at the minute. Im so much stronger, clearer in my thoughts. Im still taking medication, seeing a psychiatrist but Im recovering, she said.

Missing Saoirse Smyth may have been trafficked into sex trade, says family member

What happened to me was all about stress and confused thoughts, it all built up and the people who did that to me are the people who took and killed Saoirse.

I just want to know what happened, we want our Saoirse back so we can bury her.

We dont even want justice now, an anonymous tip-off about where she is and why she had to die would be enough at this stage. My granny has suffered enough, let her go to her grave in peace, thats all I ask.

There was a stage when I wanted revenge, I wanted to find out who they were, where they lived and think about what things I would do to them but not anymore. I realised that being consumed with revenge I was only punishing myself. Today I am 100 per cent focused on finding her body, thats it, thats what I will fight for.

Nicole says she believes her cousins disappearance and suspected murder was not treated as a priority by the PSNI which has closed the case.

Saoirses connections to drug gangs north and south of the border has been well documented since she vanished.

Saoirse ran with drug gangs, she was a drug addict and she had mental health problems but does that make her less of a person, less of a priority? Nicole asked the Sunday World.

Everyone knew she ran with the wrong crowd but did that make her less of a human being?

The PSNI closed her case, they have told us she was murdered but how do they know and how do they close a case when there is no body?

They [PSNI] told us at the start that they had three suspects but no evidence. The evidence they gave us was proof of life checks, no movement on her bank account, not collecting her benefits and no phone activity.

I accept that now because I know our Saoirse, if she had a penny she spent it. I know she is dead, have for a long time, but that still doesnt answer the main question about where her body is.

Its as if shes not worth looking for but to us she is, we loved and still love her.

Saoirses case was referred to the gardai in Dublin and has now been passed to the Criminal Investigations team in Dundalk. The gardai are still treating Saoirse as a missing person, unlike the PSNI.

Nicole and her family have a meeting with the investigative team in 11 days time, which is their last hope to give them the peace and closure they crave and deserve.

I have a list of questions that I will ask the Guards, so far we have been failed but we are hoping they will give the case the time it deserves.

Even just for my granny who had Saoirse since she was a baby after her own mother died.

We have been losing hope and trust, slipping away day by day.

We just hope that this meeting later this month will have something to it, they will have some information, thats all we can hope for now, sadly thats it, all we have.

Over the years since Saoirse disappeared her family have made repeated requests for those involved to answer the questions that keep them awake at night.

I know we sound like a broken record but if anyone has anything that could help please do, we dont even want to know who you are. It doesnt seem real, its been seven years and not one person has dropped a comment.

You appeal to peoples consciences but the fact is the people involved would kill you and not give it a second thought, Nicole added.
The delegation of the Border Guard Command of Kien Giang province present gifts to the Military Sub-Region of Shihanouk province, Cambodia. (Photo: VNA)

Heads of the delegations offered best regard and wishes to the Cambodian side and emphasised that Vietnam and Cambodia are neighbours with a long history and traditional solidarity.

Every year, on the occasion of the traditional New Year of each country, leaders of Cambodian bordering provinces/cities and armed forces and Kien Giang province send delegations to visit and extend New Year wishes as an annual practice to tighten the two sides solidarity and friendship.

Kien Giang and Cambodias border provinces have kept promoting exchanges and cooperation in various fields including culture, trade, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, and search and repatriation of remains of Vietnamese experts and volunteers who died in the Cambodian battlefield. Especially, the localities coordinate to ensure security and safety along the two countries borders.

Receiving the Vietnamese delegations, Cambodian representatives thanked Kien Giang provincial Party Committee, People's Council, People's Committee, and its Vietnam Fatherland Front for their greetings. They emphasised the valuable traditions and good neighbourship of the two countries and peoples./.
UDA bosses in south Belfast believe that one of the weapons now in police hands is the murder weapon used to execute former North Belfast commander Boreland in 2016.

Police at the scene of the killing

John Boreland had been warned his life was in danger before he was gunned down.

A gun seized by cops may have been used in the murder of former UDA chief John Boreland.

Police discovered a cache of weapons and ammunition in a car stopped on Thursday, March 21, and it is understood that the weapons are undergoing forensic examination to determine their history.

UDA bosses in south Belfast believe that one of the weapons now in police hands is the murder weapon used to execute former North Belfast commander Boreland in 2016.

A sawn-off shotgun was among the haul uncovered when police stopped a car on the Lisburn Road in the early hours of the morning.

Three pistols and an assault rifle were also recovered.

A sawn-off shotgun was the weapon of choice when South Belfast UDA sanctioned the Boreland murder.

Sources in the south of the city have told the Sunday World they are convinced the gun is the one used on Boreland.

They are panicking, they thought the gun had been either destroyed or dumped after Boreland was shot; it may not be the same one but they are convinced it is.

No one has been convicted of the 2016 killing in which Boreland was shot at point-blank range at the doorstep of his mothers north Belfast home.

The hit on Bonzer  a close associate of one-time north Belfast Brigadier Andre Shoukri  had been months in the planning.

His killers used a simmering feud in the north of the city between the UVF and UDA as a smokescreen and struck Boreland as he arrived at his mothers apartment in the Ballysillan area.

The 47-year-old had spent the evening at a Shore Road pub, a regular haunt, where he was shadowed by a two-man team from South Belfast UDA.

A hit team waiting at the flat received a call that he was on his way. As the veteran loyalist approached the door he was shot twice in the face with a sawn-off shotgun.

In a final act of humiliation the murder weapon was loaded with solid lead shot resulting in catastrophic injuries, meaning Borelands burial casket will have been closed, denying his loved ones a last farewell.

Despite Borelands involvement in criminality and the drugs trade, he remained a popular figure in the north of the city. He had stepped back from paramilitary activity, adopting a low profile.

Police at the scene of the killing

But his past was never far away. He survived a murder bid, suffering a leg injury when rival loyalists opened fire on him and close pal Shoukri in 2014.

Then-North Belfast Brigadier John Bunting was charged in connection with the attempted murder but the charges were later withdrawn.

Boreland had been warned his life was in danger but had shrugged off the threats, even in the wake of his car being damaged in what was seen as a warning.

The attack was carried out by elements within South Belfast UDA, who sourced and stored the car used by the killers as well as providing the weapon.

Elements of North Belfast UDA  who were forced out when former Brigadier Bunting was ousted by a rebel faction headed by Bill Hill  were granted refuge in the south of the city, and it is understood they conspired to target Boreland.

A feud between Hills mob and Mount Vernon UVF had no bearing on the attack as the motive for the killing dates back to an age-old grudge.

Last week, William McCune (45), of Bentham Drive, appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court to face charges of possessing firearms in suspicious circumstances, and with intent to cause fear of violence.

He is further accused of having ammunition, a stun-gun, firearms without a licence, and possessing cocaine and cannabis.

An investigating detective said police stopped McCunes Seat Arona on the Upper Lisburn Road for a failure to indicate.

He told officers a suitcase in the back of the SUV may contain revolvers.

Police located more guns, ammunition, two balaclavas, a Taser, two small bags of suspected cocaine and a cannabis joint inside the vehicle, the court heard.

Follow-up searches at Mr McCunes home led to the discovery of parts for another shotgun, air rifle and UDA items.

The detective said: During interviews he stated that he acts as a go-between for the community in south Belfast and the UDA.

He said that he had been approached by a school friend to dispose of items that were to be left in an alleyway.

Mr McCune claimed he had intended to hand over the haul to the authorities later the same day.

The defendant denied any links to the UDA, the court was told, but admitted a gun found at his home belonged to that organisation and was there to be cleaned before getting rid of it.

McCune was refused bail based on the risks of re-offending and harm to the public.

District Judge Steven Keown remanded him in custody until April 19.
This would make a world of difference to thousands of people.

The Diabetic Duo have called on the NHS in Northern Ireland to fund the life-changing artificial pancreas being rolled out in England.

The campaigners, Beth McDaniel and Ellen Watson have gained a worldwide following for their online efforts to tackle the stigma surrounding the condition.

The pals, from Banbridge, says the new technology is the biggest breakthrough yet in dealing with diabetes.

People with diabetes make an extra 180 decisions a day, says Ellen, who was diagnosed at seven.

This would make a world of difference to thousands of people.

The new device, a Hybrid Closed Loop system monitors glucose levels and delivers the correct dose of insulin via a pump.

It was approved for use on the NHS by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence in December 2023 and health chiefs in England announced this week they would roll out the devices to under-18s and pregnant women with

Type 1 diabetes and adults who meet its criteria.

Beth, who discovered she had the condition at 20, says it offers a brighter future.

This would change our lives. It would give so many people hope for the future.

Diabetes is relentless, and its such an invisible disability. We could have a horrible nights sleep with up and down blood sugars and you just have to get up and go into work the next day.

No one understands how hard it is unless you live with it.

It can cause heart disease, kidney disease, strokes.

The pair both use Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitors, which send real-time alerts to a mobile phone. Theyre also the first device of their type which can provide glucose readings direct to an Apple watch.

Ellen, 24, previously had to finger prick and check her insulin levels several times a day and both campaigners have to inject insulin daily.

I still have to do the odd finger prick but compared to what it was like in my childhood its minimal now.

I lived for years with no technology. The advances and research have allowed us to focus on our everyday lives.

The thought of children in the future having no injections and finger pricking is amazing.

Even though they have lived with the condition for years the pair both completed a DAFNE course recently  dose adjustment for normal eating  which underlined how every choice they make affects their diabetes.

It was hard to get your head around the formulas and ratios and all the external factors that affect your insulin, says Ellen.

It felt like we were back at school, says Beth.

It was really delving into the carb counting and examining everything that affects us like exercise, alcohol, takeaways.

The pair have appealed to the Department of Health in Northern Ireland to fund the life-changing new technology.

People would need fewer hospital visits, and it would make a world of difference to our lives, says Ellen.

According to Diabetes UK over 100,000 people in Northern Ireland have the condition, of whom 8 per cent have Type 1 diabetes, where they produce no insulin.

In a statement a spokesperson for the Department of Health says work is ongoing to consider the commissioning and implementation arrangement for the new device following the NICE guidance.

Significant additional investment will be required to support the provision of Hybrid Closed Loop systems to people living with Type 1 diabetes who would be eligible.

It is worth noting that NHS England has developed a phased implementation strategy over a five-year period in response to the guidance, owing to the scale and scope of this recommendation, the statement adds.
His career has gone from strength to strength in recent years with outstanding performances and now Colin Farrell takes on noir-ish series Sugar set in the City of Angels.

Colin Farrell is swapping the windswept west coast of Ireland for the glamorous boulevards of the City of Angels.

The chameleon that is Farrell has been mixing it up with his latest roles, and this year will see him take on two very different characters following his Banshees of Inisherin performance.

Later this year, well see the Irish actor returning to play one of the all-time great villains  The Penguin  in a TV spin-off of his memorable turn in The Batman.

But first, Farrell is bringing us to a stunning, sun-soaked Los Angeles, playing a slick and suave detective in a brand new show, Sugar, for Apple TV.

Dapper in designer suits, Colin cruises the City of Angels in an open-top Corvette as detective John Sugar, a man who works on the fringes of crime yet, unusually, hates violence of any kind.

The movie-obsessed detective could himself have stepped out of a Humphrey Bogart or Robert Mitchum movie. Hes an old-schooler who works privately on behalf of his clients, and his driving passion is tracking down missing people and reuniting them with their families.

When the much-loved granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood producer goes missing, Sugar is hired to find out what happened to her.

Farrells character, we learn, loathes violence and is a compassionate man who befriends Wiley, the adorable screen dog that viewers are set to fall in love with.

Colin Farrell as John Sugar with Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Ruby

That doesnt mean that Sugars not capable of violent actions if required, as we see in some of the series dramatic opening scenes on a high-risk assignment in Tokyo.

It also quickly emerges that Sugar is battling some mysterious demons of his own, which he is trying to conceal from even those closest to him.

The genre-bending series, which is now on Apple TV with new episodes weekly, unfolds over eight binge-worthy episodes. It sees Farrell leading a starry cast which includes Kirby, Amy Ryan, Anna Gunn and James Cromwell. Ostensibly a detective procedural, Sugar emerges as anything but  and the manner in which it unfolds is certain to become a huge talking point among audiences.

The show, directed by acclaimed Brazilian film director Fernando Meirelles (City of God), is also executive-produced by Farrell, who found it fascinating playing the shows mysterious leading man over eight addictive episodes.

Colin in Ballykissangel

Hes somewhat mercurial, incredibly fastidious, and incredibly intuitive, Farrell has said of his canny detective. He knows people, sees people and he sees into people.

As much as he swims in waters of the darkest recesses of human behaviour, he also loves the beauty that human beings can create.

And he has a wound of his own from his past that compels him forward in the work that he does. So that means that the work he embarks upon is incredibly personal to him. Its not just a job.

Sugar is very much a specialist, focused only on finding people and working mostly for wealthy and powerful clients who want to keep their cases out of the public eye.

His only true allegiance is to finding people, locating those lost souls who usually have been the victims of kidnap or abduction, and returning them home to their families.

Though its set in contemporary times, Sugar is very much a love letter to the Los Angeles of the past. There are serious LA Confidential and The Big Sleep vibes to the mysteries that unfold in the City of Angels, while Sugar is very much an old-school detective who inveigles himself into the lives of those who may be harbouring secrets.

For the Dubliner, it gave him an opportunity to show off the city that has become his second home. Ive lived in Los Angeles for 20 years and it has some of the most character of any city Ive ever been in, Farrell said of the experience.

Every now and then you see a film that seems to grasp an aspect of the spirit of this city, so the idea to investigate Los Angeles as a character  everything thats beautiful, everything thats broken, and all the parts in between  was really attractive to me.

One of the most interesting aspects to Sugar is how it pays homage to film noir and the great movies of the past in the genre. It does so through Farrells character, a movie nerd, and by blending the new story on screen with brief glimpses of some of the classics.

Director Fernando Meirelles has said that the detective is someone who learns about life by watching movies. Of course I had seen some film noir before, but it was (series creator) Mark Protosevich who gave me the list of movies I should watch and I did my homework.

He told me straight away that Out of the Past directed by Jacques Turner was probably the quintessential film noir, but Murder, My Sweet directed by Edward Dmytryk, was his personal favourite.

Then he sent me the essentials: The Big Sleep, directed by Howard Hawks; The Maltese Falcon, directed by John Huston; and Kiss Me Deadly, directed by Robert Aldrich. I love Chinatown, who doesnt? Columbo was a must for me.

Fans of film noir will be in their element with the numerous references to other films peppered throughout the series.

Yet Sugar is just one of two groundbreaking series the Dublin actor is bringing to our TV screens this year.

Having first been almost completely unrecognisable as feared villain The Penguin in 2022s The Batman, Farrell made a strong impression in the supporting role opposite Robert Pattinsons Batman.

In fact, director Matt Reeves felt that The Penguins story was compelling enough to merit a spin-off  and now the actor returns to the role for a series to be launched later this year. The series will delve deeper into the character and the personality of The Penguin, aka Gotham gangster Oswald Cobblepot.

Just last week, a new trailer for the series, set to be launched in the autumn, was released, hinting at a dark and gritty look at Gothams criminal underworld.

While details of the plot are being kept under wraps, the actor himself has said that the show will be dark and violent, as Cobblepot becomes involved in an unprecedented power grab in gangland Gotham.

The death of Carmine Falcone at the end of [The Batman] leaves this vacuum in Gotham to be filled, and so there are various people that are grabbing for that power, he said. This is Oswalds journey trying to rise to the top through extraordinary obstacles, and its super dark.

Banshees of Inisherin

COLINS KEY ROLES

He was already charming Irish audiences as the loveable rogue Danny Byrne  complete with his trusty horse Razor  in BBC soap Ballykissangel. But in 1999 Colin Farrell was to land a role that would transform his life.

Top filmmaker Joel Schumacher cast Farrell as Boz in his movie Tigerland, about a group of soldiers in boot camp before heading for Vietnam. He was terrific in his US breakthrough role, putting him on the radar of major filmmakers in America.

Im here because Joel Schumacher has balls big enough to give an Irish kid a chance to play a Texan in the lead role, he later told this writer.

Within a couple of years, the Dubliner was starring opposite Tom Cruise in Steven Spielbergs acclaimed sci-fi thriller Minority Report, teaming again with Schumacher on Phone Booth, and working with Terrence Malick on his Pocahontas-based tale, The New World.

Colin in Tigerland

Other mainstream movies followed, but in 2008, Farrell took a more indie turn opposite his close friend Brendan Gleeson with In Bruges. Martin McDonaghs offbeat tale of two assassins hiding out in the Belgian city was a new departure  and won him a Golden Globe Award.

A year later, he shone opposite the great Jeff Bridges in the charming Crazy Heart, playing a country music star and showing he could hold a tune.

By 2015, the actor was working with one of the worlds edgiest filmmakers, Yorgos Lanthimos, in surreal drama The Lobster, filmed in Co Kerry. The two would work together again a couple of years later in the darker-themed The Killing of a Sacred Deer.

But the past two years have seen a remarkable run of success for the Irishman. After playing the fearsome whaler Henry Drax in chilling TV series

The North Water, the actor featured in three of 2022s best films. He shone as a rescuer in real-life Thai cave drama Thirteen Lives and in the heartfelt sci-fi After Yang.

He and Gleeson were reunited with McDonagh for The Banshees of Inisherin and the movie began a global success.

His role as the rejected and dejected Padraic won Farrell his second Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination.
The government's own advisers says the tougher its new boot camps are, the worse they will work.

A trial of the Young Offender Military Academies was due to begin by the middle of the year, run at one of Oranga Tamariki's youth justice facilities.

Critics say they won't work to prevent re-offending, and both the Human Rights Commission and the Chief Children's Commissioner says they'd had no input, but did have major concerns.

And advice to Children's Minister Karen Chhour released under the Official Information Act showed officials also raised concerns.

"Traditional boot camp models of strict discipline are likely to be detrimental to young people with a history of abuse and family violence," says advice from prior to the announcement they were going ahead.

"Some boot camp approaches have an initial 'breaking down' phase that tends to be confrontational, which poses greater risk to those with such histories," says the advice which has now been released under the Official Information Act.

Softer was better, officials tell the Minister.

"As more serious offenders in the New Zealand youth justice system are likely to have experienced at least two 'traumatic events', therapeutic components, trauma-informed approaches, and increased support during the initial phase of any proposed programme, are recommended."

The advisors emphasised not all boot camps were the same and the military approach and "scared straight" type were among those that did not work.

"International evidence has shown that 'boot camps', in and of themselves, are one of the least effective interventions when it comes to reducing offending and antisocial behaviour," says the main briefing to Karen.

"Boot camps with a primary focus on rehabilitation, were significantly more effective than other types of boot camp... therefore, it seems likely that a military regime itself is not effective in reducing recidivism."

Badly designed, they could erode human rights such as freedom of movement or of association or of freedom of expression, the advice says.

The OIA boot camp papers were heavily blanked out, on the grounds of keeping advice to Ministers confidential, making it impossible to know what officials fully argued or ultimately recommended.

Minister 'disagrees' with advice

Karen Chhour rejected the advice the boot camps could be detrimental. "It's advice, I can disagree with advice," she tells RNZ.

She says she'd spoken to many people who had been through Blue Light and military-style programmes and was consulting with iwi.

"So everybody has opinions. And what I'm saying is we can't afford to not do anything, because what's more detrimental for these young people is to have them going into these youth justice facilities without any rehabilitation, coming out and ending up in adult prison because we haven't given them the care that they need."

Children's Minister Karen Chhour. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver. Children's Minister Karen Chhour. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver.

The government was walking a difficult line between needing to look tough, and playing up the rehabilitation side.

Karen says she was focused on the "difference" this time - after previous failed attempts at boot camps - and that would mean lots of follow-up support when young people get out.

She confirmed the camps, aimed at the worst young criminals who numbered about 400 in 2022, were part of the Prime Minister's new target to cut serious youth offending by 15 per cent.

Karen says Oranga Tamariki staff were being trained and the youth justice residencies, which have come under heavy criticism previously, could "be the right place for the full-fledged thing. Once the law changes, then we can consider what to do from there".

"I have every faith that Oranga Tamariki knows exactly what I expect of them. We have set down priorities. We have set down what we want to see happen."

Defence and Police would be the other main government agencies involved and were "enthusiastic", Karen says.

Neither would comment to on whether the boot camps would drain their already tight resources.

A January briefing says "there will be a particular impact on the NZDF if its personnel are to be involved".

Human Rights and Children's Commissioner concerns

The Human Rights Commission says it "has serious concerns about the way in which key human rights and te Tiriti o Waitangi issues raised by officials appear to have been disregarded by the Minister".

The Royal Commission looking at abuse had shown "these types of punitive institutions have had a propensity to cause harm for children and young people," the HRC says.

And they were contrary to recommendations from the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and Committee Against Torture, which last year encouraged the government to address youth justice issues through non-custodial measures.

Chief Children's Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad expected to meet Oranga Tamariki this coming week to find out more.

"The Minister for Children has says the approach will involve rehabilitative, trauma informed care.

"I agree these are crucial components for any youth justice response, alongside a number of other considerations from a rights perspective.

"I remain ready to provide independent advice to government."

- Phil Pennington, RNZ
Corrections officers barricaded themselves and a prisoner inside a van after its tyres were slashed and shots fired at a tangi in Waikato.

A minimum security prisoner had been given permission to attend a family member's funeral at a marae on Thursday afternoon, and was escorted there by corrections officers from Waikeria Prison.

Police say most of those attending the tangi were gang members.

At about 12.45pm, a shotgun was fired into the air several times.

Waikeria Prison general manager Rosemary Firth says the guards immediately returned to the escort vehicle, only to find its tyres had been slashed. They locked themselves inside and called for help.

"The tyres of the prisoner escort vehicle had been damaged, so they secured themselves and the prisoner inside the vehicle while additional staff and vehicles from the prison were immediately dispatched to the area. All staff and the prisoner safely returned to the site without further incident."

The corrections officers involved had shown "exceptional courage", Firth says.

"Our staff did an excellent job responding to a incredibly challenging situation and I would like to acknowledge them for their professionalism and bravery. They moved swiftly to secure the prisoner to ensure no risk to public safety and their actions ensured the safety of the prisoner and their colleagues.

"Threats and intimidation towards our staff are unacceptable, especially when they're trying to do the right thing by allowing a prisoner to mourn the loss of a loved one."

Police say a shotgun shell was found near the Department of Corrections' van, and enquiries are being made to identify and find the person who pulled the trigger.

Waikeria Prison was currently undergoing a large redevelopment project, which has been pushed back several times. It was where New Zealand's biggest prison riot happened over the 2020/2021 New Year period, when 17 inmates burned a high-security unit to the ground, in protest over "inhumane" conditions.

-RNZ.
As her hunger builds with dusk approaching, her faith is fed and recharged as she celebrates being Muslim for the month of Ramadan.

For the past month, in line with the Islamic Lunar calendar, Saadia Khan has been celebrating Ramadan with her family who live in Tauranga.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and marks the month when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by the Angel Jibra'il (Angel Gabriel), says Saadia.

Lasting 29, or 30 days depending on when the next crescent moon is, Saadia says Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with immense focus on devotion. Muslims spend extra time reading the Quran and performing special prayer.

Part of Ramadan involves fasting or sawm from dawn to dusk each day.

People are expected to prohibit them self from any food, grain and immoral act.

Saadia has been taking part in this for more than 20 years, where fasting begins at around age 12 or once a person has been through puberty.

Saadia says shes accustomed to the sense of hunger that comes with Ramadan.

We fast for the sake of Allah and also show unity with people who suffer from hunger around the world. It also teaches us how to control hunger and maintain mood swings.

A big part of the fast is the why? says Saadia.

The reason for fasting is to remind Muslims that all individuals are similar, and needy upon the assistance of God.

Yet Saadia says Ramadan is so much more than fasting.

It is the month of peace, the month of tranquillity, the month of cure, the month of goodness, the month of forgiveness, the month of mercy, the month of attending paradise, the month of Quran, the month of revelation.

Ramadan is a month of celebration of being a Muslim.

When Saadia and her family sight the new crescent moon, which is due this week, Ramadan will end and be celebrated with Eid al-Fitr.

This is a grand celebration for Muslims. On the first days of Eid al-Fitr, it is customary to wear new clothes and gather with family at the mosque for the Eid prayer in the morning.

Afterwards, we celebrate the day with our loved ones by sharing meals and exchanging presents as a symbol of joy and happiness.
Medsafe has approved 11 cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine.

Pharmaceutical suppliers have indicated they may be able to supply the first products in June.

This is much earlier than the original expectation of medicines being available by 2025, says Associate Health Minister David Seymour.

The Government recognised that New Zealanders want these medicines for winter, and we've done our part in achieving this by changing the law swiftly and overseeing a fast approval process by Medsafe.

The only step left is for pharmaceutical companies to get the medicines to our shores, which theyve indicated they can do by winter.

Seymour says this accessibility will be a real relief to New Zealanders suffering from colds and flu this winter.

He says people will be able to access the same effective cold and flu medicines that are available in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The Misuse of Drugs (Pseudoephedrine) Amendment Bill passed its final reading unanimously in the House this week.

The bill reclassifies pseudoephedrine from a Class B to a Class C controlled drug. Along with changes to the Medicines Regulations 1984, this means New Zealanders will be able to purchase cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine from a pharmacy without a prescription.

New Zealanders have been denied decent cold and flu medication for years because of a misguided ban caused by fears it would be used for methamphetamine production.

The reality is that the gangs have far more effective ways of obtaining pseudoephedrine to manufacture methamphetamine and we should tackle these head on instead.

Safeguards will remain in place to prevent misuse. It will retain its status as a controlled drug and a precursor substance. While restrictions on importing and exporting these medicines are still in place, and New Zealand Police and New Zealand Customs are able to seize illicit products.

The coalition government has delivered on its commitment to making principled decisions by getting rid of red tape that doesnt make sense and allowing sick New Zealanders greater freedom and choice to purchase effective cold and flu medicines.

For more information see the Ministry of Healths website: Pseudoephedrine cold and flu medicines | Ministry of Health NZ
The Coroner is advising people to consider the fire risk of their electric blankets after a Wellington woman died when hers caught fire.

Ann McAllister, 82, died from "inhalation of products of combustion".

Firefighters found McAllister dead in her bed, with her dog beside her, about 7.30am on January 3, 2023.

The source of the fire appeared to be her electric blanket, which had been left on at the highest heat setting.

A fire investigation report found the point of origin of the fire appeared to be the southwest corner of the mattress.

Specialist fire investigator Brendon Allen concluded the circumstances of the fire were accidental.

He found the most probable cause of the fire was the electric blanket overheating on the southwest corner "resulting in the slow smouldering combustion of the mattress and bedding".

No fire alarms appeared to be installed, Allen said.

Coroner Mark Wilton noted McAllister's daughter had told police she had bought her mother a new electric blanket to replace her old worn one. But after the fire, the new blanket was found in a cupboard.

Wilton said McAllister's death was a "tragic accident".

No recommendations were made, but with winter approaching Wilton did endorse fire safety advice from Fire and Emergency (FENZ).

FENZ recommended people replace or get an electrician to inspect any worn electric blankets and replace them every five years, and to always switch electric blankets off before going to bed.

It also advised putting photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway of the home.

-RNZ.
Taurangas city centre is shedding its reputation as dying as it undergoes a massive transformation.

Like many CBDs, Tauranga has experienced issues with businesses moving to malls and older buildings needing earthquake strengthening, leaving empty shops and giving the perception its not worth visiting.

Adding to this is a huge number of construction projects that aim to make area a place to be proud of.

In 2022 commissioner Stephen Selwood said the city has clearly died in a council meeting about the $306m civic precinct, Te Manawataki o Te Papa, that the council green-lit.

The civic precinct project aims to revive the city's heart.

Although these projects have caused disruption, Tauranga City Councils city development and partnerships general manager Gareth Wallis says he is excited about the changes.

Local Democracy Reporting joined him for a tour of the city centre to see the transformation and glimpse the future.

We start in Red Square at the bottom of Devonport Road. Wallis informs me its going to be a sanctuary space, with play elements added as it gets a facelift in the coming months.

We are going to have a lot of disruption at different times, in different locations, but we wanted to find some spaces that were clearly identified as a space that you could get away from it all.

At 2 Devonport Rd, construction is under way on the seven storey Craigs Investment Partners building. Office, retail and hospitality spaces will make up the building that is set for completion at the end of 2025.

Gareth Wallis says the interior of 90 Devonport Rd behind him will mirror a pohutukawa tree. Photo: John Borren/SunLive.

A new home for council

Next stop is 90 Devonport Road, where the countrys largest mass timber construction office building has huge glass panels and wooden beams jut from the ground.

Upon completion early next year it will house council staff, the first time they will all be under the same roof in 10 years. The former council offices and chambers were demolished due to issues with black mould.

Wallis says the interior is designed to mirror the pohutukawa growing on the seaward side. The lower floors will be grey and brown toned, moving to green with the upper of the eight floors red.

Wherever you are in the building you're anchored to the outside through that tree.

Its not just the completed buildings that Wallis is excited about, its the number of people they will bring into the citys heart.

Around 600-700 council staff will work from 90 Devonport and Wallis estimates there will be another 200-300 people at the Craigs building.

It's more than a thousand additional people in the city every single day, which really will start to make a difference to how it feels. And what's cool about that is then the market will start to respond.

90 Devonport Road is set open next year and will house the council staff. Photo: Tauranga City Council.

Along the length of Devonport Road a number of shops sit empty - some of them vacant for years.

Wallis believes this is because many of the buildings need earthquake strengthening and landlords dont want to spend the money.

The other is a lot of the real estate in the CBD is owned by old money so they can just afford to sit on the asset and not actually rent it out, he says.

The council meets with landlords regularly and encourages them to offer reduced rents to activate spaces, says Wallis.

On the corner of Devonport Rd and Elizabeth St sits the newest development, 38 Elizabeth. Recently completed, the 10 storey building hosts Farmers, a restaurant, shops, 23 townhouses and 97 apartments across two towers.

Its an incredibly impressive building.

The new 38 Elizabeth Development houses 23 townhouses and 97 apartments. Photo: Supplied.

Parking problems?

Before leaving the main shopping, the parking question is inevitably raised. City centre parking and its costs are a bugbear for many residents.

Theres a lot of talk in the city centre about not enough car parks. There are more parks today than there were a year ago.

The citys two parking buildings were at 40 per cent capacity in January, Wallis tells us.

The statement that there aren't carparks available in the city centre is wrong.

There's an old-school mentality that you should be able to park outside the shop you want to go to and not have to pay, he says.

Its not unusual that you would have to pay for a carpark in the middle of your city centre.

The council is working on a project to change peoples perception of CBD parking.

The carpark on The Strand will be replaced with green space and a new playground. Photo: Tauranga City Council.

Waterfront makeover

At the start of Elizabeth Street is the pocket park Tunks Reserve that has recently been made over.

Its named after former mayor Alfred Tunks and the stairs leading up to it boasts a runnel so cyclists can ascend smoothly with their bike.

Reaching The Strand the railway underpass that will link to The Strand extension via a boardwalk is nearly complete.

Work to turn The Strand carpark into a greenspace will begin once the seawall repair is complete. It will also become a living seawall with 100 water pods to attract marine plants and animals.

A lot people and businesses are upset to lose the parking but Wallis says the commission is steadfast in their decision.

You name me one great city in the world where their waterfront is handed over to car parking, Commission chair Anne Tolley asked someone upset by the loss of parks, recalls Wallis.

A new playground will also be built but the beloved bronze Hairy Maclary statues will remain. The new greenspace is scheduled to be open in time for summer.

Construction continues across the road on the Norther Quarter - a two tower development on The Strand.

One tower will be three stories with a conference centre and offices. The other will be seven storeys and potentially house a hotel.

Early works have begun at the Te Manawataki o Te Papa site. Photo: John Borren/SunLive.

A museum at last

The last stop on the tour is the Te Manawataki o Te Papa site.

The area between Willow and Durham streets doesnt look like much now, but it will house a new library and community hub, a civic whare and Taurangas first museum and exhibition centre.

Pilling work is underway for the three storey library which is due to be completed in 2026.

The citys taonga currently sits in storage facilities and Wallis is itching to be able to display it.

Its the first time in the history of our city we'll have a museum, which is a little bit exciting.

Largely all of the city's precious taonga sit in two warehouses  and we never get to see them.

As a city, very, very excited that for the first time we'll have a place where we can show that stuff.

An Artists impression Te Manawataki o Te Papa. Photo: Tauranga City Council.

Tauranga Art Gallery and Baycourt Performing Arts Centre will also be upgraded as part of the civic precinct project.

People should also check out the amazing restaurants and unique retail stores, says the CBD's spokesperson.

Wallis enthusiasm for the city and its future is palpable and he encourages people to see it for themselves.

Its quite interesting when you actually learn about what's going to happen in our city centre, come in and have a look around."

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Tauranga Moana is gearing up to host a significant agthering of iwi leaders next month.

Ngati Ranginui says it's proud to announce that it will be hosting the National Iwi Chairs Forum from the 1st to the 3rd of May 1-3.

Iwi leaders from across Aotearoa will come together to deliberate on pivotal issues affecting Maori and the wider nation.

The theme for this year's forum, underscored by the Whakatauki, Ahakoa uhi uhi nga ngaru, Ka whakaea ano te toka a Tirikawa" (Irrespective of the waves that crash continuously, Tirikawa rock remains resolute and prominent), reflects the steadfastness and resilience required in the face of ongoing political challenges impacting Maori communities.

This proverbial saying eloquently encapsulates the spirit with which our people will engage in discussions and decision-making processes at the forum.

This forum is a testament to our collective resilience and unity, says Ngati Ranginui chairperson Charlie Rahiri.

It serves not only as a meeting place for our leaders but as a beacon of hope and strength for our people, especially as we draw inspiration from our ancestors who stood firm at Pukehinahina.

Their legacy empowers us to navigate through contemporary challenges with dignity and determination.

The timing of the forum is especially poignant, as it aligns closely with the 160-year commemoration of the Battle of Pukehinahina (Gate Pa), a pivotal event in New Zealand's history.

The commemoration of Pukehinahina serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices of our tupuna. It inspires us to stand strong in the face of adversity, honoring their legacy through our actions and deliberations at this forum.

National Iwi Chairs at last hui Waitangi February 2024.

During the three-day event, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a range of topics including environmental and climate, economic development, health, te tiriti and the preservation of te reo and tikanga Maori.

The forum will also serve as a platform to celebrate our successes, share knowledge and strategies, and forge stronger ties among iwi.

Together, in the spirit of kotahitanga, we will confront the pressing issues of our time, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of our people and all Aotearoa for generations to come.
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Ma Ying-jeou in Beijing, capital of China, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The recent meeting of Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, with a Taiwan delegation led by Ma Ying-jeou has injected stability and positive energy into the relations across the Taiwan Strait.

Wednesday's meeting in Beijing marked the first time Xi had received Taiwan compatriots and delivered an important speech since the 20th CPC National Congress in late 2022.

The meeting took place amidst a complex and challenging situation in the Taiwan Strait. "Taiwan independence" separatists, in collusion with external forces, have made provocations to seek independence, further escalating tensions in the Strait.

Xi's speech, filled with deep affection and goodwill towards Taiwan compatriots, will surely further unite compatriots on both sides of the Strait to achieve national reunification.

Throughout its development journey, the Chinese nation has created a history demonstrating the inseparable connection between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Although the mainland and Taiwan are yet to be reunified, the fact that both belong to one China and one nation has never changed, and national reunification remains an irreversible trend.

Confronted with the activities of "Taiwan independence" separatists colluding with foreign forces to undermine the development of their shared homeland, every member of the Chinese nation must unite in resolve to oppose and crack down on such actions.

Compatriots across the Taiwan Strait should join hands to create a bright future of peaceful reunification, firmly holding the destiny of the Chinese nation in their own hands.

During the meeting, Xi emphasized that improving the well-being of people across the Strait is the driving force and objective behind efforts to advance cross-Strait relations.

He underscored the mainland's genuine sincerity and goodwill in benefiting Taiwan compatriots.

The mainland will continue enhancing systems and policies aimed at improving the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, maintaining its commitment to ensuring a better life for people on both sides of the Strait.

The mainland has always kept its doors open to Taiwan compatriots, actively fostering cross-Strait exchanges, interactions, and mutual understanding.

It also unites all sectors of Taiwan society for concerted efforts to eliminate political obstacles and facilitate normal and regular exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in advancing cross-Strait relations, the mainland will implement more vigorous policies and measures to facilitate the sound development and success of youth across the Taiwan Strait.

Editor: ZAD
ACT Party leader David Seymour would vote against Maori wards if his home council were to hold a referendum on them.

The party opposed Maori Wards, but Seymour accepts that, it should be up to local people by referendum to decide if they want them.

If there was a vote in Auckland where I reside, I'd be voting no.

The Government plans to require councils to hold a binding referendum on Maori wards established after March 2021.

During a visit to Tauranga on Thursday, Seymour spoke to Local Democracy Reporting about the issue.

Our [ACTs] basic view is that human beings are wonderful, filled with different characteristics, particularly their skills and their hopes and dreams, their challenges.

Yet for some reason there's been a really corrosive obsession in New Zealand with a person's race.

Asked if there was any harm in ensuring Maori were represented on councils, Seymour replied: New Zealand is made up of people from all walks of life.

The one thing they've all got in common is either they or their ancestors moved here for a better tomorrow.

Its not really obvious why some people's background is more important than others.

I'm not really sure why we take a period of time 200 years ago and decide to privilege some humans over others.

Some of the crowd at a meeting organised by the Concerned Citizens group about Maori wards in Tauranga in 2021. File photo/SunLive.

Maori wards in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty could be affected by the Government's new policy.

Tauranga City Council will have a Maori ward for the first time at the upcoming election on July 20.

The decision was made to establish one in 2020, but this was nearly overturned by a petition from a group called Concerned Citizens.

This was done through a legal loophole where if a petition was signed by of at least 5 per cent of the local population, they could overturn a council's decision on Maori wards by forcing a binding referendum on the matter.

Local government minister at the time Nanaia Mahuta enabled the Local Electoral (Maori Wards and Maori Constituencies) Amendment Bill, preventing such petitions from affecting future council decisions on Maori wards.

The commission confirmed the previous councils decision on Maori wards at meeting in April 2021.

It was described as a momentous day on August 17, 2023, when the Western Bay of Plenty District Council voted to establish a Maori ward after mana whenua campaigned for over a decade.

Western Bay of Plenty will need to hold a poll on Maori wards at the 2025 election. No action will be needed for Tauranga in the July election, but the council will need to consider it before its next election in 2028.

Local Government New Zealand president Sam Broughton said the decision about Maori wards should be made at a council level. Photo: Supplied.

Local Government New Zealand president Sam Broughton labelled the governments decision a complete overreach.

The Coalition Government is removing decision-making from councils by mandating polls be run on Maori wards and constituencies alone, Broughton said in a statement.

We have long asked that Maori wards and constituencies be treated like all other wards and the decisions be made at the council level.

Currently, councils can make decisions about the establishment of Maori wards and constituencies for themselves. No one is forced, its a choice by communities elected representatives.

Councils make these decisions based on feedback from their communities and iwi representatives.

When announcing the decision, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown said any decision to establish or disestablish a Maori ward should remain with communities.

"This does not affect councils responsibilities to consult with mana whenua on issues that affect them.

The government would introduce a bill in the coming months requiring councils to hold a referendum alongside the 2025 election. The results would be binding and come into effect at the 2028 local government elections.

Any council not wanting to hold a poll would be given the opportunity to reverse their decision or disestablish Maori wards prior to the 2025 local body elections.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Alberto Flores Granada Friday, 12 April 2024, 13:20 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Granada city is full of bars where the star of the show is the tapas; in Granada it's traditional to get a free tapa with every drink consumed. With so many options to choose from, customers are spoiled for choice. However, for the businesses it's more difficult, especially when customers order little but stay for a long time.

This is what happened to La Madre que me Pario, a gastrobar located in Calle Pinto Zuloaga which had to take a drastic decision to keep the business profitable: to apply a rule for tapas and chatting and establish a minimum spend per customer per hour. The rule is simple: everyone who goes there for tapas must consume a minimum of eight euros per hour per person at the table.

"We have always wanted to keep the tapa as part of our business but sometimes it is impossible and unfeasible. The numbers didn't work out for me", Willer, who was in charge of starting up the business a year ago, told SUR's sister paper in Granada, Ideal.

According to Willer sometimes customers stayed for more than an hour occupying a table with just one drink. "We are a small establishment and we have costs to bear. The fact that a table is occupied by someone for a long time with hardly anything being consumed is very detrimental to us".

"We have always wanted to keep the lid on our business but sometimes it is impossible and unfeasible"

So before deciding to scrap the tapas, Willer decided that a good option was to establish this rule, which is clearly explained to customers on the menu. "We've been doing it for six months now and the truth is that it's going really well. People are more aware of what's going on and understand us," he says.

Brazilian flavours

As well as tapas, La Madre que me Pario also offers some of the flavours of Willer's native Brazil, with burgers and croquettes the speciality. "Our speciality are the homemade burgers with real cheese and the croquettes, which are not like the traditional Spanish ones," explains the restaurateur.

The croquettes, in fact, are made without bechamel, with a wheat flour and potato dough. The best sellers are the three-cheese and chicken croquettes, although they also have others including sausage. As well as other dishes such as fried cassava, which is a typical dish in northern Brazil, they also serve esfihas, a kind of pizza from Middle Eastern countries.
Daniel Olivares Granada Friday, 12 April 2024, 15:21 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Cider is said to have been consumed as far back as Roman times by the inhabitants of Asturias, the cider region par excellence in Spain (along with the Basque Country), although the first documented sale and purchase reference of the alcoholic beverage dates back to 904 AD. It is also traditional in countries including France, England, Belgium, Ireland and Germany.

In southern Europe the cultivation of grapes and other products has always prevailed and cider has never been a common drink, with the exception of Asturias, the Basque Country and some areas of Galicia. However, for a quarter of a century the province of Granada has been home to the first and only cider house in Andalucia.

As its creator Manuel Moreno, says, "From Madrid down I have no record of any other, the closest one is in Segovia." In addition, Bodega Sidra del Sur-Fuente Guijarro is probably the highest cider house in Europe, at almost 2,000 metres above sea level.

It is located in Granada province's Alpujarra, in the Sierra Nevada Natural Park and Manuel Moreno and Sara Bertani are the people behind it. The first creations began back in the 1990s when Moreno settled on the estate where they produce their "apple cava", as he likes to call it.

He had previously lived in Pampaneira, working in a carpentry workshop. But he decided to leave the job to move further east and work in agriculture on the Fuente Guijarro estate, which, although it is in the municipality of Valor, it borders Yegen. "Let's say that physically we are in Yegen, but legally we belong to Valor," says Moreno. Born in Madrid, he decided to head to the south more than forty years ago, towards the Alpujarra and to a more natural world.

The forgotten trees

In 1999 the first 'serious' cider was born. And 25 years later, in 2024, Fuente Guijarro now produces between four and five different varieties, depending on the harvest, made in a completely artisanal and natural way; the old-fashioned way. In fact, it is so traditional that a large part of the apple harvesting is done using mules.

This is the only way to transport the fruit from the two plots they have in La Ragua. As they are located in the Sierra Nevada Natural Park, they cannot do it by vehicle, so they take the sacks down three by three by mule to the nearest road where modern transport can reach them.

"It is approximately a fifteen-minute walk to this point, and we get there on mules or horseback. It is a rite and we like it very much that way, says Moreno, who in addition to making cider, safeguards the few old apple trees that were left in the area.

"During this time I have seen how the apple trees are disappearing from the rural landscape of the Alpujarras. The extensive cultivation of cherry tomatoes and green beans has led to the apple trees being cut down to make space for them," he explains.

Moreno adds that the felling and abandonment of traditional family subsistence agriculture have almost led to the complete disappearance of these fruit trees throughout the are. "The few apple orchards, almost all of which have been abandoned due to their lack of profitability, are also disappearing," he explains.

And the fact is that his cider, or ciders, apart from the altitude, have another common denominator. They are made with 'peros'; a type of apple native to the area from trees that were close to extinction and that he and Sara decided to protect.

"They are botanical relics in extreme danger of extinction. We are aware of the existence of only one specimen, a single tree, and unfortunately in recent years we have also recorded the total disappearance of some other varieties, as the last known specimen has been lost," he explains.

"One of our main objectives has been the recovery and conservation of the different varieties of these almost extinct trees. We have achieved in our nursery what is today the only bank for the conservation of these relics; the oldest and noblest native apples. We plant new crops on our plots and give saplings to people who are sensitive to our attempt to preserve and make this crop profitable," Moreno says.

For more than 30 years they have compiled all the information given to them by "the oldest of the farmers", while taking cuttings from as many trees with these varieties as possible "through painstaking and interminable research". They call them the "forgotten trees".

Zoom Manuel Moreno. IDEAL

Hortel Cava

On the Fuente Guijarro estate, named after the spring that irrigates it, the most common variety is the 'pero Hortel'. "The apples grown on the higher farms in the sierra were late-ripening, some not sweetening until late December when, after harvesting, they were carefully placed on racks of reeds or on a bed of rye straw, so that they could be kept all winter in a perfectly ripe state until the following summer. This was a supply of fresh fruit in the long winters," Moreno explains.

It is these Serrano apples that give Fuente Guijarro cider its uniqueness. The acids and aromas introduced into this 'apple cava' are what give this cider its own personality, which is quite different from the more classic ciders of the north of Spain or others that are sold in supermarkets. Moreover, the ageing method they use is more similar to the traditional method used to produce French champagnes and Catalan cavas.

The range of varieties moves between those made naturally with their own retained carbon and those double fermented with their own juices, giving characteristics more akin to a sparkling white wine than a cider. "The process is the same as the one Dom Perignon created in his day. That's why I say it's an apple cava. Some people, after tasting it, have asked me what grape variety it was," Moreno laughs.

They use up to nine varieties of apples which, combined in different ways, give meaning to their different labels: La Ragua, Fuente Guijarro Ancestral, Fuente Guijarro Metodo Clasico, Eva and Quimera.

The naturalness is also noticeable in the sulphites, antioxidants which always oscillate below five milligrams per litre (European legislation sets a limit of 10 mg/litre). In terms of alcohol content, it far exceeds traditional ciders, which are around four or five per cent. These Alpujarra ciders are close to the status of wine with 7.5 per cent alcohol.

95 per cent of production is exported

Do the people of Granada consume Sidra del Sur? The truth is they don't, and that most of Fuente Guijarro's production, limited to around 5,000 bottles a year, is exported outside Spain, to countries such as France, Germany and Belgium, where there is a greater tradition of consumption of this type of cider and where it is more appreciated.

It is also appreciated in Catalonia, Valencia and the Balearic Islands, Manuel Moreno points out. Only a small amount of the production stays and is distributed in the province. Ninety-five percent goes abroad. This is why Manuel and Sara attend several of the natural wine fairs held in these countries, in Madrid and Barcelona every year. And the nearest airport is more than two hours' drive from Yegen.
Luis Ybarra Friday, 12 April 2024, 13:09 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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National Geographic has selected the most interesting villages and towns in Spain for their Middle Ages heritage, a list of 40 municipalities that includes four towns in Andalucia. A perfect option for rural tourism before or just after the summer heat.

The cobbled streets and distinctive castles of Almodovar del Rio , in Cordoba; Castellar de la Frontera , in Cadiz; Niebla , in Huelva; and Montefrio , in Granada deserve a stop according to this US publication.

"Small gems in Spain that are worth visiting, above all, for their medieval heritage, although many of them also boast a gastronomy rich in flavours, an exceptional Jewish quarter or a great bastion that encases it all", thus inviting us to explore them. The landscape is dotted with doorways, arches and facades, narrow lanes with quirky lean-tos, replete with old tales of kings and more, and worn, centuries-old, cobbled streets oozing with history.

Almodovar del Rio (Cordoba)

Here you will find an impressive castle that overlooks all the other key monuments in this town. "The most imposing of its nine towers is that of the Homenaje [homage], where the king would be honoured by his subjects, (there's a lively re-enactment of this); from the rooftop there is a magnificent view of this village of white houses and the countryside that takes you to the distant horizon, watered by the Guadalquivir river". The castle dates from the 7th century, but reconstruction work after damage suffered during the Reconquest of Spain has defined its present-day appearance. Perhaps you have seen it on television, as it was one of the settings for the series Game of Thrones .

Zoom Almodovar del Rio ABC

Almodovar del Rio, with a population of 7,964 inhabitants, is located in a valley, at the foot of a mountain where its fortifications rise up. Other places of interest from the past to explore in this beautiful town in Cordoba are the church of the Immaculate Conception, built in the 15th century , the chapels of El Rosario and San Sebastian and the town's public, archaeological museum.

Castellar de la Frontera (Cadiz)

Historically a kingdom border town and witness to the War of Granada (1482-1492) in which it played a strategic role, this small town boasts within its walls a village that preserves its Nasrid legacy. The whitewashed walls of the houses, all linked by winding alleys, and the slits cut into the fortified stone walls that afford the visitor a glimpse of the vastness that lies beyond these walls.

Zoom Castellar de la Frontera. ABC

The town appears tiny, clustered atop the mountain that protects it with the reservoir below, and the castle sits on high, stretching out its arms as a mother would to her young. Strolling through the castle grounds is a sheer delight for those who seek tranquillity amid traces of the Middle Ages.

Niebla (Huelva)

Another trip worth proposing would be to the gates of this old town, where the Roman bridge straddles the riverbank. It is one of the most unique parts of this town. Under its arches, zinc, copper and other minerals from the surrounding area have stained everything with a reddish hue - the colour as much of giving life as giving in to death. The road that used to pass through here connected the mouth of the Guadiana river with the Roman town of Italica, and you can sense the centuries of history pressing down on you as you travel along the current road.

Zoom Guzmanes Castle ABC

The bridge has also become the obligatory starting point for a walk through Niebla's long history. The route takes you through a castle that has been destroyed and rebuilt on several occasions, although most of it dates back to 1330 when under Muslim rule. It is called the castle of the Guzmanes , the flagship home of this family of nobles from Huelva.

Montefrio (Granada)

Finally, the fourth Andalusian town mentioned in National Geographic is Montefrio, in Sierra de Parapanda. In2015 , themagazineincludeditinitslistofthetentownswiththebestviewsintheworld, which is why the town's most well-known viewpoint was renamed National Geographic Viewpoint.

Zoom Montefrio, in Granada ABC

"A stronghold of the kingdom of Granada, an impregnable fortress, Montefrio grew up around a great castle that fell to the Catholic Monarchs in 1486. A stroll through its streets uncovers traces of this history through its monuments and squares, such as the castle that presides over the town". In 1982 it was declared a National Historic-Artistic Site .
Olatz Hernandez / SUR in English Friday, 12 April 2024, 20:00 | Updated 20:10h. Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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The high-level meeting between Spain, the United Kingdom, the EU and Gibraltar in Brussels ended on Friday with "significant progress" that gives a glimpse of a future agreement on Gibraltar. The foreign ministers of the two countries -Jose Manuel Albares and David Cameron- met with the vice-president of the European Commission, Maros Sefcovic, and the chief minister of Gibraltar, Fabian Picardo, and managed to establish the "general political lines" regarding the airport, goods and mobility on the Rock, as confirmed in a joint statement.

Negotiations are at their "peak", as vice-president Sefcovic indicated several days ago, and the parties agreed not to give further details of the pacts reached in order to preserve the possibility of agreement.

"Today is not just another day. It has been an important day with great progress," the Spanish foreign minister stressed on leaving the meeting, adding that his intention is to reach an agreement "as soon as possible".

He did not reveal when the next meeting will take place and assured that the parties "have not set a specific timetable". But the sense of urgency to reach an agreement is evident just a few months before the European elections, which will mean a hiatus of several months in the negotiations. There is also a desire to take advantage of the Spanish government's and Rishi Sunak's government's good relationship before the British general elections, which must be held before 28 January 2025.

Weeks of work

Four years after the UK's effective exit from the European Union (EU) and after eighteen technical rounds of negotiations, Spain, the UK and the EU executive are trying to finalise a complex treaty, which will include various aspects, from who is in charge of border controls, to tax harmonisation and pensions, among others.

The idea is to continue negotiations in the hope of "concluding the agreement in the next few weeks". This is, according to Albares, "an important and special moment". Chief Minister of Gibraltar Fabian Picardo, also present at the meeting, stressed that "there is a commitment" from the parties to reach an agreement and that they will continue to work in the "very little time left" before the European elections.

A joint statement released on Friday evening said: "The discussions took place in a constructive atmosphere, with significant progress achieved. General political lines have been agreed, including on airport, goods and mobility. Negotiations will continue over the coming weeks to conclude the EU-UK Agreement.

"The participants agreed that this was a productive day. The meeting reaffirmed their shared commitment to concluding an EU-UK Agreement to secure the future prosperity of the whole region. This Agreement will bring confidence, legal certainty and stability to the lives and livelihoods of the people of the whole region, without prejudice to the parties legal positions," concluded the statement.

Border

Gibraltar's border with the EU and the mobility of the tens of thousands of people who cross it every day was one of the main points of discussion. It was also one of the most sensitive. In the absence of knowing the agreed lines, the EU executive's proposal was that the Frontex Agency would be in charge of border controls, in order to avoid the presence of Spanish agents on the Rock.

Negotiations also referred to control of Gibraltar's airport, which both Spain and the UK are demanding. As for the import and export of goods, tax harmonisation is being considered to bring Gibraltar into line with other European regions. Among the pending issues is equating pensions for Gibraltarians and itinerant workers from the Rock, some 400 euros per month lower.
Alekk M. Saanders Friday, 12 April 2024, 16:52 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Andalucia has been related to studies of the cosmos at least since the ninth century, when Ronda-born Abbas ibn Firnas conducted an experiment that has been labelled as a milestone in the history of human flight.

The Past: planetarium

Abbas ibn Firnas is the most famous 'scientist' and polymath of early Islamic Spain. He was born in Ronda in 810, but lived his whole life in Cordoba.

There, Ibn Firnas made various discoveries in the fields of astronomy and engineering. For example, he designed a reduced model of the cosmos from a terrestrial perspective, known as an armillary sphere, the first astronomical instrument in Europe.

Ibn Firnas developed a chain of rings, with the help of which it was possible to model the movement of planets and stars in the universe. The armillary sphere with rings was given as a present to Caliph Muhammad I of Cordoba, then a Muslim ruler of Al-Andalus.

In addition, using his knowledge of astrology, Ibn Firnas is thought to have designed a water clock, the clepsydra, which could tell the time on both cloudy days and nights.

Ronda-born Abbas Ibn Firnas developed a chain of rings, with the help of which it was possible to model the movement of planets and stars in the universe

Finally, Abbas ibn Firnas founded the first planetarium in history. One of the rooms in his house was devoted to the cosmos. Constellations, stars and weather phenomena were represented there.

Mechanisms created clouds, lightning and thunder in the four walls of the room. Not surprisingly, Ibn Firnas's contribution to astronautics was honoured. In 1976, a lunar impact crater on the far side of the Moon (before known as Crater 213) was named after the Andalusian.

Zoom Abbas ibn Firnas bridge in Cordoba. A. Toledano

The Present: spaceport

Few know that the first American space missions had Spanish participation. One of the key roles was assigned to the Maspalomas station, located in the southern part of the island of Gran Canaria. This ground-based radio antenna station for spacecraft communications was originally established in the 1960s to support Nasa's nascent human spaceflight programme.

Spanish antennas helped communicate with astronauts during the Apollo missions, including receiving Armstrong's first message from the Moon. Apparently, such cooperation helped Spain become a 'space power' as long as 50 years ago. Intasat, the first Spanish satellite, was launched from California in 1974.

As for Andalucia, the region got its spaceport, or rather a launch pad for suborbital rockets, in 1966. El Arenosillo Test Centre (CEDEA) was established in the municipality of Moguer, in Huelva province.

The choice of site was justified. The area near the town of Mazagon best suited the technical and operational conditions required for the space project, 'offering' an average altitude of 42 metres above sea level and 300 days of sunshine per year (the optimum weather conditions). Consequently, a ministerial order granted permission to occupy a public forest with an initial area of 30.8 hectares in 'Coto Mazagon'.

Today, El Arenosillo hosts an autonomous astronomical observatory with two domes and three telescopes. The town of Mazagon is home to the INTA (Instituto Nacional de Tecnica Aeroespacial).

El Arenosillo Centre with its spacecraft launch pad was originally intended as an experimental centre for the development of aerospace activities. It was aimed to implement a joint project with Nasa to obtain high-altitude meteorological information in Spain, testing and evaluating equipment and observation techniques with meteorological sounding rockets.

The first rocket launch at El Arenosillo, located in Andalucia, took place on 15 October 1966. It was the British Skua rocket

The first rocket launch at El Arenosillo took place on 15 October 1966. It was the British Skua rocket, the first of a family of sounding rockets. It was reported that the first launch exceeded an altitude of 60km.

Until 1994, over 500 British-made Skua rockets were successfully launched from Andalucia. Another British rocket, Skylark, was launched from El Arenosillo on 12 January 1974. Since the 1990s, Spanish-made rockets have been launched into space from the Andalusian coast.

The Future: space tourism

In recent years, Andalucia has often been mentioned in the context of space tourism. In November 2020, the newspaper Diario de Sevilla published the headline 'The first tourist flights to the frontier of space will be made from Seville'.

It was about the ambitious project of the company EOS-X Space, which has chosen the Andalusian capital to establish its launch base and engineering and development work to set up the project.

According to a statement made by the company at the Tourism Innovation Summit (TIS) held in Seville, the project was to be a milestone for the Andalusian industry and aims to take 10,000 people to the frontier of space in a pressurised capsule within the next decade.

In recent years, Andalucia has often been mentioned in the context of space tourism

Last year, Spanish company Halo Space confirmed its intention to open the doors of space tourism to the general public. According to the event's organisers, passengers accommodated in a space capsule for nine people will be able to observe "grandeur of the curvature of the Earth" and enjoy "incredible views of space".

The Spanish company emphasises that, thanks to zero emissions, these journeys will take place in a sustainable and safe environment.

In the context of space tourism, Marbella is also featured. The Swiss hotel school Les Roches, located in the Costa del Sol resort, is the organiser of the Space & Underwater Tourism Universal Summit (SUTUS).

It is reported that Halo Space will be presenting more information on stratospheric tourism flights at the fifth summit, which will be held under the theme Tourism Beyond Natural Borders in September. So far, it is known that the journey will last between four and six hours and could become a reality as early as 2025.
The Junta de Andalucia parliament has unanimously backed a Partido Popular motion to scrap the AP-7 motorway toll charges on the Costa del Sol until the C1 Cercanias (commuter) train line from Malaga is extended from Fuengirola - even as far as Algeciras - in a move that is expected to put pressure on the central government.

Partido Popular, PSOE, Vox, Por Andalucia and Adelante all supported the proposal on Thursday 11 April in a bid to make the railway connection project along the Costa del Sol seen as a priority and become part of the political agenda.

Studies

The Andalusian parliament is also urging the Spanish government to make public the content and progress of past studies and reports looking into options to extend the railway line. It also wants the government to be transparent about budget allocation and include the different administrations and social and economic agents affected in the process of deciding the route and to suspend the AP-7 toll collection. PSOE did not throw its support behind the latter.

Secretary general of the Malaga Partido Popular Jose Ramon Carmona, who supported the proposal in the chamber attended by the mayors of all the municipalities involved, said the huge presence was testimony to the support for the project. "We have managed to open an important social debate in public opinion in the province of Malaga and we feel fully supported," he said.

The approved proposal points out that there is no area in Spain similar to Malaga and the Costa del Sol, with the region between Nerja and Manilva and its 170 kilometres of coastline the third major urban axis in the country after Madrid and Barcelona.

Carmona warned that with the population growth predicted for the coming years, mobility is an issue that will worsen, which is why it is crucial to find a solution. He pointed out 2030 forecasts predict more than two million people will live in Malaga province, surpassing Seville in the number of inhabitants.

Zoom Costa del Sol mayors and the delegate of the Andalusian government in Malaga, with Juanma Moreno and members of his government this Thursday in parliament. SUR

Carmona reviewed all the projects that have been successively put on the table since 1862, when it was first proposed to connect Malaga with Algeciras by rail and said creating a corridor is vital for the development of the province.

Despite the unanimous support, the debate was not free of pushback. PSOE's Jose Luis Ruiz Espejo assured that during his years in the Spanish government, the Partido Popular did not show any interest in this project and slowed down railway investment. He also criticised that the newly backed proposal did not include any measure within the competence of the Andalusian regional government.

Reach a consensus

After admitting both parties have had responsibilities, he warned that if the project continues to be used in the political fray, it will remain unsolved and said the first step is to reach a consensus on which train model is necessary for the area. "We have to put the general interest ahead of party interests, because when they governed they did not show this interest," Ruiz Espejo said.

PSOE tabled two amendments - referring to the creation of a consortium made up of representatives of the Spanish and Andalusian governments and economic and social agents linked to this project, and to the implementation of a plan for the free use of interurban public transport between all the municipalities affected - which were not accepted.

Alejandro Hernandez, from Vox, said the motion fell short and defended the amendments presented by his party, which called for prioritising the pending works on the Costa del Sol's road network. Six of these proposals were accepted.

Both Por Andalucia and Adelante criticised the tourist and urbanistic model of the Costa del Sol and demanded the regional government fulfil an agreement already adopted by the parliament and claim control of the railways for Andalucia.
J. M. Camerero / P. Martinez / N. Hesketh Madrid / Malaga Friday, 12 April 2024, 13:35 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Real estate agents on the Costa del Sol selling to foreign buyers outside the EU - including to Britons - have received a setback this week with the Spanish government's decision to abolish the Golden Visa for those investing in property. Set up in 2013, the visa scheme grants residency permits to foreigners from outside the EU who invest at least 500,000 euros in real estate in Spain.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez justified the move with the need to guarantee affordable housing to people in Spain. The government argued that the Golden Visa had contributed to the problem of soaring house prices in recent years and that the property market in the country had become "stressed".

The EU has been calling for member countries to toughen up these fast-track visas for richer people, arguing that the source of money invested is often murky. Countries including Portugal have recently watered down their own schemes in response.

According to Spain's housing minister, Isabel Rodriguez, the number of these special visas granted to people buying property has shot up from 461 in 2016 to 2,017 in 2023 and 3,273 last year. In total, 14,576 Golden Visas have been given out to property buyers since 2013.

Since the special visa scheme started, it is Chinese and Russians who have benefited most. But, since Brexit, many more Britons with sufficient money unable to move to Spain under flexible EU-member rules have taken advantage of the Golden Visa route and bought a home, rather than the slower and more restrictive other routes to residency.

Speaking after a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Isabel Rodriguez said those taking out the visas were purchasing luxury real estate investments mainly in Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Alicante, the Balearic Islands and Valencia. These six provinces account for 90% of the authorisations, according to Rodriguez.

"In areas such as Marbella, Golden Visas already make up 7.1% of home purchases, in Barcelona they reach 5.3% and 10% in some municipalities in the Balearic Islands," the minister explained. "These transactions stress the market and increase the price of housing," she added. No individual should have to spend more than 30% of their income to have a "decent" place to live, said the government.

Reactions on the Costa

The news of the imminent disappearance of the Golden Visa sparked concern among the property and residential tourism industries on the Costa del Sol, as professionals fear a negative impact on foreign investment.

President of the Andalusian federation of developers and residential tourism Ricardo Arranz, who is also executive president of the Villa Padierna Hotels group, said the Golden Visa had developed quality tourism on the Costa and brought in wealth to the area.

"The unease is clear. I fear that this is another blunder," Arranz pointed out, while criticising the national government for making the decision "without consulting anyone, as a flash in the pan idea generating surprise and concern".

Criticism

Turismo Costa del Sol boss Francisco Salado, of the conservative PP party, said residential tourism "is a huge source of income and employment for our country and for the Costa del Sol, and this [Golden Visa] measure has favoured the arrival of many residents with high purchasing power".

"It is absurd to think that the Golden Visa has raised the prices of housing in the cities or for young people," Salado said. "This decision impoverishes our country, generates more unemployment and only benefits other countries and competing destinations," he added.

Ricardo Bocanegra, founder of the association of foreign residents on the Costa del Sol said the government's announcement had generated concern and pointed out the Golden Visa "does not influence or distort the housing market. It only contributes to attracting high-level foreign investment. The arguments put forward are poor and do not hold water".

Buying a property worth 500,000 euros has been one way to obtain a Golden Visa. Other routes to getting one - including investing a million euros in shares in a Spanish company or two million euros in government bonds - will still be available, said the government, although take-up of these is significantly smaller than the property route.

Zoom Liudmila with her daughter and parents-in-law in Marbella. Josele Without the Golden Visa we wouldnt have bought our home in Marbella The idea of living in Spain began to cross their minds many years ago. So much so that Liudmila, a Russian psychology teacher from Moscow, and her husband, a doctor in the same city, started saving for the huge investment ten years ago - their daughters even studied Spanish at a Moscow school in preparation for the big move. The Spanish Golden Visa scheme, which from 2013 until now allowed foreigners who invested more than half a million euros in a home in Spain to obtain residency, was key to making this dream a reality. "If there hadn't been this visa we wouldn't have bought this house in Marbella. Spain was our goal and having this residence permit was very important," said Liudmila, who also pointed out they have been able to start a new life with their youngest daughter "who is happy at school in Las Chapas [Marbella]". "My eldest daughter is studying at a university in the UK and my in-laws also live with us here," she added. Liudmila said that in 2013, coinciding with the year Spain launched the Golden Visa, she and her family visited Marbella for the first time on a one-week holiday. They were delighted. In 2017 they returned on holiday and then in 2021 they selected from Moscow, through a real estate portal, the three-bedroom house which they now call home. "We invested 510,000 euros in this house in 2021 and a year later we came to live here." Despite the turbulent adventure of starting a new life in a country without knowing the local language, it has become clear to her that "I like to think that I have another future here". Liudmila also said learning Spanish has been key. "We have not stopped studying and I already have B1 level and my daughter is doing very well at school." "I love the life in Marbella, its beaches and mountains, and being able to go from one place to another without big traffic jams. Here our dream has come true," she said while thinking of other families who have had their dreams of investing in Spain dashed following the government's plan to abolish the golden visa scheme. "Many will be in the process of saving, as we did, but they will no longer have the opportunity to live here," she said.

exto]
Cristina Pinto Malaga Friday, 12 April 2024, 14:33 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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More foster families are needed as children in desperate need of homes in Malaga city increases. Fundacion Hogar Abierto (Open Home Foundation) has taken over Calle Larios to raise awareness as part of a special appeal. "The aim of this campaign is to find [families] and raise awareness of fostering because there are more than 100 children who are in need of a family right now," said psychologist and coordinator of the foundation in Malaga, Marisol Romero.

The busiest and most famous street of Malaga city has been filled with 80 photographs of famous people from all walks of life with children: from Manuel Alcantara, the Duchess of Alba or Mario Vargas Llosa to Sara Baras, Salva Reina or Joan Manuel Serrat. These are images that Fundacion Hogar Abierto has been compiling since 2011 for its calendars and are now on show in Calle Larios as part of an agreement with the Junta de Andalucia.

Foster care "is the most appropriate measure of protection for many children, as well as being the most supportive resource for family integration and reintegration, always respecting the identity of the child and promoting their education and overall development as a person," the foundation said. There are currently some 540 children in this situation in Malaga, but there are never enough families, the foundation added.

Types of care

The children who are in this situation arrive at the centres either because their parents are in a period of rehab, suffering from mental illness or because they are unable to take care of them for a period of time. As a result, there are various types of foster care, which Fundacion Hogar Abierto told SUR: "Emergency foster care, in which there is a guard and if a child needs a family at 3am, they do not pass through the reception centre, but go directly to the family. There is another form which is temporary and lasts for a maximum of two years with children ranging from newborns to 15 or 16; in this case it is foreseen that the family's situation can be solved. Then there is permanent, which is when the family has a very chronic problem in which the social services have a much longer job and know that the child cannot be reintegrated in the medium or long term," said the president of the foundation Alberto Pelaez and coordinator Marisol Romero.

The clear objective of foster care is for the child to return to his or her biological family. "But if the family does not overcome the problems they have, they move on to permanent foster care, which in some cases ends up in adoption," Romero said. "All families have the help of social educators, psychologists, therapists... And there is paid foster care for professionals who are willing to take in a child with special needs," she added.

Zoom The photographs are with well-known local and national personalities. Here, Manuel Alcantara. Nito Salas

Some 80 photographs in Calle Larios aim to draw the attention of the people of Malaga who are willing to give this help to so many children in need. "Malaga is generous and we hope to raise awareness among the population so that they are encouraged to join our network of foster families, which is a spectacular and wonderful experience. You can see how the children turn around 180 degrees thanks to fostering," Romero pointed out.

For more information about Open Home Foundation, visit their headquarters at calle Barroso, 7. Telephone 952 122 566 or visit their website at www.hogarabierto.org.
Francisco Grinan Malaga Friday, 12 April 2024, 13:48 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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The Phoenicians ruled the Mediterranean before the Greeks and Romans. A reminder of this is a collection of 201 Phoenician terracotta figures, retrieved from the sea near Tyre (one of the civilisation's major cities, in modern-day Lebanon), which is to remain in Malaga indefinitely.

Following an announcement last year that they were on sale, the Ifergan Gallery's star pieces - the biggest private collection of its kind - will now continue to occupy the exhibition room on Calle Sebastian Souviron, close to the Central Market. Securing the permanence of the collection in Malaga is thanks to the support of archeologist Eduardo Garcia Alfonso, who has curated the gallery's new catalogue, which includes this precious collection. It also features the first scientific study on these votive sculptures from Tyre.

Ifergan Collection Name Name Ifergan Collection. Pieces 201 Phoenician terracotta figures recovered near Tyre in 1958, after almost 3,000 years on the sea bed. Price General entry, 7 euros; residents in Malaga, students and pensioners 3.50 euros. Location Calle Sebastian Souviron, 9, Malaga.

A specialist in the Phoenician civilisation and head of communications at the Museum of Malaga, Garcia Alfonso explained this new phase of the gallery owned by collector Vicente Jimenez Ifergan. After unveiling this archeological exhibition in 2018, comprising half the terracotta figures as well as Mesopotamian, Greek, Egyptian, Roman and Arab art, the gallery proposed a temporary transfer of the two hundred Phoenician sculptures to the Museum of Malaga. However, the idea never came to fruition due to the arrival of the pandemic.

This left the gallery's future uncertain; it remained closed and many of its pieces were put on sale and sold. The exhibition, however, reopened last summer, with the private collection of Phoenician terracotta figures - which remained intact. The collector has now opted to highlight the importance of these treasures through their cataloguing and study.

In the absence of Jimenez Ifergan, who has been doing humanitarian work in Ukraine since the start of the war with Russia, Eduardo Garcia Alfonso explained this week that the businessman and philanthropist has committed to "not selling this collection because he has a special appreciation and affection for it". In addition, they would have to be sold separately if they were to be put on the market, and the current owner has put "as the only condition that it has to remain as one while he is living".

Garcia Alfonso's study brings a fresh perspective on the origin of these sculptures: it was believed that they were part of a ship's cargo, which, in an attempt to save these divine figures from the siege of Tyre by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, ended up at the bottom of the sea, sunk by the Greeks.

There was no shipwreck

This romantic vision is one which the archeologist prefers to replace with a more scientific version. "Temples would be filled with these votive offerings to the gods, and every so often, they would be buried in order to liberate these sacred spaces, therefore my hypothesis is that in Tyre, they were thrown into the sea, an idea that has more basis than that of a sunken ship," explained the archeologist. He added that there are three areas in Tyre where these sculptures appeared, in some cases over 2,000 rescued pieces, which reinforces his theory that in reality "they were thrown into the sea as offerings, which also happened during the Phoenician period in Cadiz". They remained at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea until the 1950s, when fishermen started recovering hundreds of these pieces through the use of new fishing techniques such as trawling.

Devotion to the gods

The figures also reveal lesser known facts about Phoenician culture, such as their gods and their religious fervour. For instance, the start of the tour features a figure of a priest, over one metre high, as well as a triton, which represents Pontus, god of the sea. Both have their hands in the air, as if to welcome people into the collection, although visitors would soon realise that this greeting gesture is common in representations of the gods Astarte, Melqart or Tanit. "Raised hands are a sign of protection, which was already used in Egyptian art," the archeologist concluded.
BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The so-called concern expressed by the United States and Japan over China's nuclear policy is a deliberate false narrative, and China is firmly against it and will not accept it, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday.

Mao made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on a report that U.S. President Joe Biden met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday and issued a joint statement saying that China's accelerating build-up of its nuclear arsenal without transparency nor meaningful dialogue poses a concern to global and regional stability.

Mao stressed that China follows a policy of "no first use" of nuclear weapons and has committed to not using nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states and nuclear-weapon-free zones.

Noting China always keeps its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required by national security, Mao said China never engages in any forms of arms race.

"For any country, as long as they do not use nuclear weapons against China, they will not feel threatened by China's nuclear weapons," Mao said.

Mao said the United States sits on the largest and most advanced nuclear arsenal in the world. "Even so, it clings to a first-use nuclear policy, devises nuclear deterrence strategies against others and has invested heavily to upgrade its nuclear triad," she added.

It has withdrawn from treaties and organizations concerning arms control, enhanced the NATO nuclear alliance and expanded cooperation with allies on advanced military technologies, the spokesperson said.

Japan, as a victim of nuclear explosions, instead of asking the United States to conduct nuclear disarmament, chooses to rely on the U.S. nuclear umbrella to develop advanced missile attack and defense capabilities and work with the United States in the forward deployment of its strategic forces, Mao said.

She said such negative moves by the United States and Japan have undermined strategic balance and stability in the region and the wider world, hindered the international arms control and disarmament processes and disrupted regional peace and tranquility.

"The international community has reason to be strongly concerned about this," Mao said.

"As a Chinese saying goes, do the right thing before telling others what to do," Mao said, adding the United States and Japan need to reflect on their behavior and commit themselves to doing the right thing.

They should stop undermining the international nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation regime, reduce the role of nuclear weapons in national and collective security policies and act responsibly for the welfare of the world, Mao said.

Editor: ZAD
Fresh views of the town's New Bridge spanning the deep gorge can be seen from the new pathway.

Matias Stuber Ronda Friday, 12 April 2024, 12:03 | Updated 12:27h. Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Ronda's new Camino del Desfiladero del Tajo gorge walk, is soon expected to become a hotspot for tourists to visit in Andalucia with the first phase of the 1.6-million-euro attraction due to be opened to the public on Saturday, 13 April.

The first of two phases of the project was officially opened yesterday Thursday 11 April with the 250-metre route starting from the central Maria Auxiliadora square and following a winding route until it ends at the foot of the New Bridge and the gorge itself, offering stunning panoramic views.

On Saturday it will be open to the public at a price of five euros (those registered as living in the municipality will be able to access it for free). Ronda mayor Maria de la Paz Fernandez said the attraction's website, which has been operational for about 24 hours, has already sold some 600 tickets. Expectations are in line with what this new tourist attraction has to offer, adding to the many sites that combine environmental exploration with physical activity in the open air.

Thursday's official opening of the new tourist attraction was attended by the Junta's minister of tourism Arturo Bernal, Diputacion president Francisco Salado and the delegate of tourism Gemma del Corral, among others. Work on the pathway in this first phase has cost around 500,000 euros.

The intention is to extend the route with a walkway along the bottom of the gorge in a second phase, until it reaches 750 metres long. The second phase will be paid for, in part, by Malaga's Diputacion provincial authority with its president, Francisco Salado, announcing the tender for the project will go out on Tuesday next week. The estimated cost would be in excess of 600,000 euros. Extending the route would allow it to reach the Arab baths in the Padre Jesus neighbourhood.

During a small ceremony at the site on Thursday, attended by about thirty invited guests, the Junta's Arturo Bernal said the Desfiladero del Tajo "is going to be one of the great attractions of this town". He also said it will add to the wide range of tourist attractions that the region already has and will be another argument for people visiting Ronda and Malaga province. Meanwhile, Salado said he had "fallen in love with Ronda again" thanks to the new, stunning views offered by the pathway.

Zoom Officials at the inauguration of the Desfiladero del Tajo. Antonio Contreras

Fernandez pointed out that the Desfiladero del Tajo is "not just a project for Ronda, it is a project for Malaga and Andalucia". The Ronda mayor also said it is an example of tourism being "not just sun and beach, it is also inland tourism". The walkway will become "one of the most visited attractions in the province", she added.

A website has been created where tickets for the walk can be pre-booked: www.desfiladerodeltajo.info. It is available in seven languages and an application can be downloaded using a QR code to find out more about this natural site.
J. F. Alonso Friday, 12 April 2024, 14:47 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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The new swing in Salinas de Pisuerga in the Montana Palentina nature park, has not yet been officially inaugurated, but it is already swinging up and down, with its exceptional views of the mountain range and the nearby river Pisuerga. "Last weekend there was a procession of people waiting," says Julian Aguilar, the village's mayor of 24 years.

Aguilar says that he had long been looking for an activity that would bring life to the town and to the hilltop area of Cuesta del Soto . "We want to make a recreational area that can draw people to Salinas. We saw that there are many things in fashion right now, including giant swings". The result is, of course, striking - a swing standing 9 metres high and 8.5m wide.

Those nine metres make it one of the highest swings in Spain. In Libran, in the municipality of Toreno, El Bierzo, Leon, another nine-metre-high swing was inaugurated in July 2022, which immediately became the highest in Spain. Until then the Number One spot was held by the Riano swing , also in the province of Leon, with a height of eight metres.

The swing in Salinas has cost 30,000 euros, and, according to Aguilar, it is only the beginning of other facilities in Cuesta del Soto, such as a zip line or a slide. The skyline is dominated by some of the peaks of the Montana Palentina : Espiguete (2,450 m), Pena del Tejo (1,986 m), Pico Murcia (2,341 m), Curavacas (2,520 m) and Pena Carazo (2,012 m).

Zoom The first to try out the new swing in Salinas de Pisuerga, in the province of Palencia. ayuntamiento de salinas

History of salt

Few people know that about a hundred million years ago the Ebro basin was a sea that became a backwater in the lower foothills of the Cantabrian mountain range. With the Alpine orogenesis (formation of mountain ranges in southern Europe due to continents colliding in the Mesozoic era) that raised the land from 200m above sea level to 800m today, that sea gradually turned into a series of saltwater lakes that gradually dried up over time. One of the last was the one that extended along the upper course of the Pisuerga (the Romans called it Pisoraca) , where numerous fossils and salt deposits can still be found, all gathered together in the basin-shaped land that today shelters the village of Salinas de Pisuerga, a hidden gem in the Palentian Mountain Range. Part of its very name - Salinas - refers to the salt deposits that were extracted from the area.

Zoom Salinas de Pisuerga F.L.S.

Salinas is a clean, tidy, peaceful and charming little village. It has 316 registered inhabitants, all of them proud of its river, its nine-arched bridge, its hermitage of Quintanahernando , (a Romanesque jewel from the 13th century, whose walls almost dip into the waters of Aguilar reservoir - now at 65% of its capacity), and its imposing red church, where the remains of Luis de Velasco, Marquis of Salinas del Rio Pisuerga and Viceroy of New Spain, are laid to rest. Many will be surprised to learn that such a small village has a pharmacy, hairdressing salon, supermarket, beauty and massage centre, four bars, three restaurants, three hotels... and now a magnificent swing.
This is the Spanish town that Mick Jagger has fallen in love with, according to the British press.

Maria Albert Friday, 12 April 2024, 13:26 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Spain is one of the favourite countries of many foreigners , who choose this country to switch off for their holidays. To put a number on that, more than 85 million tourists visited Spain in 2023, placing it second in the world to received most visitors. The same goes for the top VIPs to visit, they too find the Iberian Peninsula to be a perfect union of gastronomy, beauty and tranquillity, ideal for them to leave behind the stressful routines that beset their lives of fame.

However, the celebrities who visit Spain are not looking for the tourist attractions of the big cities, rather many of them prefer the charm of less well-known villages and small towns that have won them over. This has now been revealed by British newspaper The Sun as, during one of its regular reviews of tourist destinations, it talked about a small town that has won the hearts of some big-named personalities such as Mick Jagger .

It is the town of Cadaques (Gerona), located in the Alt Emporda region, which can be reached "about three hours by train from Barcelona" , as mentioned in The Sun.

Cadaques, the town that has won Mick Jagger's heart according to The Sun

According to the newspaper, the Rolling Stones frontman was totally captivated when he discovered this small fishing town with white houses and crystal-clear waters. He is not, however, the only celebrity to have travelled there to enjoy all its delights: it has also attracted other celebrities such as Shakira, Andres Velencoso, Eugenia Martinez de Irujo, Isabel Preysler and Mario Vargas Llosa.

This picturesque spot on the Costa Brava has for decades attracted artists for its stunning beaches and natural scenery: more than 60 artists live there and exhibit their work to tourists, according to The Sun.

Zoom Cadaques is one of the most beautiful towns in Catalonia

Among the artists there years ago was Salvador Dali , one of the main reasons why tourism to this village in the eastern part of the peninsula has grown in recent years. The life and work of the artist from Figueres is directly linked to Cadaques, as the painter decided to take up residence there for more than half a century.

The artist's house in Port Lligat is one of the great attractions that The Sun highlights in this article for those who want to visit the area. Now, what was once Dali's home has become a museum open to the public , offering all kinds of information about the painter's career and the connection of his work with every nook and cranny of this small, Catalan town.

Yet this is not the only charm that Cadaques, which currently has fewer than 3,000 inhabitants , has to offer tourists. The old quarter of the town offers an impressive atmosphere of whitewashed streets and the vestiges of a medieval wall that no longer exists, where the Baluard watchtower still stands.

Zoom Cadaques Cove, in Gerona ZUMAPRESS.com

The municipality of Girona also stands out for its unique and near-heavenly beaches. It has 26 beaches and 11 coves , as well as being located very close to the Cap de Creus Natural Park, the place where the first rays of dawn in Spain appear. The Sun, for example, recommends places like the Platja Gran or the Platja del Ros , two of the most popular beaches in the area and a must for any visitor.

Where it is and how to get to Cadaques by public transport

The article in The Sun also highlights among its many peculiarities the complicated road access to get to Cadaques. The town has only one road in and out, which complicates getting around the town, especially during the summer. At this time of year, the police usually intervene to regulate visitor access.

If you want to go from Barcelona to Cadaques, you can travel by taxi, bus, train or car .

When travelling by car, take the toll motorway or the dual carriageway. The distance between Barcelona and Cadaques is about 100 kilometres , so it will take you about two hours by road to reach the town.
This photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a view of a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province. Approximately 5,000 Chinese people attended a grand ceremony on Thursday morning here to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi, or the Yellow Emperor. March 3 on the Chinese lunar calendar, which fell on Thursday this year, is widely believed to be the birthday of Huangdi. As a legendary common ancestor of the Chinese people, Huangdi was believed to have been born in the county-level city of Xinzheng. Worshipping Huangdi is a tradition in China. The ceremony of ancestor worship in Huangdi's hometown was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008. (Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

ZHENGZHOU, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Approximately 5,000 Chinese people attended a grand ceremony on Thursday morning in central China's Henan Province to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi, or the Yellow Emperor.

Held in Xinzheng City, the ceremonial rituals included firing salute cannons, presenting flower baskets, burning incense, a worshipping ceremony, and tributes through music and dance.

Sixty-four dancers performed Bayi, an iconic ceremonial dance in ancient China, while 99 Chinese zither players sat around, playing melodious ancient music.

"The ancestral worship ceremony is an important ritual in Chinese traditional culture, which showcases the profound cultural heritage, solidarity and progressive spirit of the entire Chinese nation," said Wang Runze, deputy head of the School of Journalism and Communication, Renmin University of China.

The ceremony was conducted simultaneously both on-site and online, allowing for wider participation and engagement.

In addition to the ceremony, numerous other activities were arranged, such as a merchants' conference, a cultural forum, and the start of a dedicated cultural week celebrating Huangdi.

March 3 on the Chinese lunar calendar, which fell on Thursday this year, is widely believed to be the birthday of Huangdi.

As a legendary common ancestor of the Chinese people, Huangdi was believed to have been born in the county-level city of Xinzheng, which is administered by the provincial capital Zhengzhou.

Xinzheng annually hosts grand ancestral worship ceremonies, initially organized spontaneously by local residents.

However, in the 1990s, the Xinzheng city government took the initiative to organize and promote these ceremonies, gradually elevating them into culturally significant events with widespread domestic and international influence.

Worshipping Huangdi is a tradition in China. The ceremony of ancestor worship in Huangdi's hometown was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008.

Performers dance during a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province, April 11, 2024.(Xinhua/Hao Yuan)

This photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a view of a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province.(Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

This photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a view of a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province.(Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

This photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a view of a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province.(Xinhua/Hao Yuan)

This photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a view of a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province.(Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

Performers attend a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province, April 11, 2024.(Xinhua/Hao Yuan)

This photo taken on April 11, 2024 shows a view of a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province. (Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

Performers act during a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province, April 11, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

Performers attend a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province, April 11, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

Performers act during a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province, April 11, 2024.(Xinhua/Hao Yuan)

Performers dance during a ceremony to worship the legendary ancestor Huangdi in Xinzheng City, central China's Henan Province, April 11, 2024.(Xinhua/Zhu Xiang)

Editor: GSY
The list of Rite Aid stores closing in 2024 continues to grow, including more locations in New York state.

WJW reports the pharmacy chain is closing 53 stores this month, in addition to 77 locations announced earlier this year. Court documents released last week show 13 more stores in the Empire State are getting the ax, including Upstate New York locations in Amherst (3249 Sheridan Drive), Buffalo (2047 Sheridan Drive), Lockport (459 South Transit Street) and Tonawanda (47 Niagara Street).

Rite Aid had previously shuttered about 40 pharmacies in New York state over the past year, including stores in Auburn, Buffalo, Elmira, and Poughkeepsie. Altogether, the Philadelphia-based company has closed or announced closures at about 500 stores since filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October.

The drugstore chain said in October it was restructuring debt with $3.45 billion in fresh financing as it faced falling sales and opioid-related lawsuits, much like rivals CVS and Walgreens. Rite Aid has already reached several settlements, including one for up to $30 million in 2022 after pharmacies were accused of contributing to an oversupply of prescription opioids.

According to its website, there are currently 1,690 Rite Aid stores in the United States, including more than 200 locations in New York state. The pharmacy chain operated as many as 4,600 stores a decade ago, but nearly half of the companys locations were bought by Walgreens in 2017 for $4.38 billion.

Rite Aid stores closing in New York state in April 2024:

Amherst: 3249 Sheridan Drive

Brentwood: 1825 Brentwood Road

Brooklyn: 960 Halsey Street

Bronx: 592 East 183rd Street

Buffalo: 2047 Sheridan Drive

East Meadow: 1910 Hempstead Turnpike

Huntington Station: 283 West Jericho Turnpike

Lake Ronkonkoma: 139 Ronkonkoma Avenue

Lockport: 459 South Transit Street

Queens Village: 218-35 Hempstead Avenue

Rego Park: 95-14 63rd Drive

Staten Island: 2271 Richmond Avenue

Tonawanda: 47 Niagara Street

If your pharmacy is impacted by the closings, find a new location at riteaid.com/locations/search.html.
Syracuse, N.Y.  A 36-year-old homeless man was charged with arson this week after police say he started a fire that damaged an Upstate Medical University building.

Edward J. Champion, of Syracuse, set fire to a garbage can outside Sarah Loguen Fraser Center at 650 S. Salina St., Upstate Medical University Police said in a criminal complaint filed in Syracuse City Court.

Champion was caught on camera setting the fire around 4 a.m. Tuesday, according to the complaint. The garbage can was next to the centers entrance and caused substantial damage to the building, police said.

There were at least four Upstate employees inside the building when the fire was set, police said. Champion headed north on South Salina Street after setting the fire and was later arrested, police said.

Champion was charged Tuesday with criminal mischief for causing more than $1,500 in damages to another persons property, arson, reckless endangerment and criminal trespass.

Champion was also charged with two outstanding crimes.

Champion was charged with resisting arrest. In January 2023, he was asked several times to leave the Centro bus hub in Syracuse, according to a criminal complaint filed in city court.

When he was confronted by police, he attempted to run away but was grabbed by an officer, police said in the criminal complaint.

The officer pulled Champion to the ground and said Champion pulled his hands away to prevent the officer from handcuffing him, the officer said in the complaint.

The officer punched Champion twice in the face and was able to handcuff him, according to the complaint.

Champion also was charged with trespassing for an incident in June 2023.

Champion was arraigned this week and bail was set at $25,000 cash or $40,000 bond. He is being held at the Justice Center jail.

Soot covers the ground and celling near the entrance of Sarah Loguen Center at 650 S. Salina St., on Friday, April 12, 2024.Timia Cobb

Staff writer Timia Cobb covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at tcobb@syracuse.com.
Valerie Torres has been a tipped worker in Washington, D.C. for over 25 years.

New legislation in Albany would upend New Yorks tipping system. Heres a tip from a bartender in Washington, D.C., where the same policy was enacted last year: This is a half-baked plan that is bad for restaurants, and even worse for workers.

State Sen. Robert Jackson and Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, who represent New York City in the state Legislature, are pushing for two bills to eliminate New Yorks tip credit this spring. The proposals would raise the base wage for tipped restaurant staff as high as $17 an hour, and prohibit restaurants from counting workers tips towards the minimum wage requirement.

Servers and bartenders in New York already had this fight. When then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo proposed the same policy in 2018, thousands of tipped workers rallied online and at the state Capitol to oppose the change. The proposal was defeated in New York  but unfortunately for me, the activists brought it to my neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Ive been in the industry, as we call it, for over 25 years. I joined for the incredible schedule flexibility when I was still a preschool teacher. I stayed because of the opportunity to control and maximize my income through tips. This income has helped me afford to live in the city and allowed me to pay for my Masters Degree in Special Education. After a while, I found I was making more bartending than I was teaching.

But that income is now at risk.

In just a year of D.C. moving toward tip credit elimination, our industry has been completely ravaged.

First, restaurants scrambled to add service charges to offset the rising costs  locals on Reddit count over 250 city restaurants are using them. As a result, confused customers are leaving fewer tips under the assumption that the full service charge will go to their server or bartender.

In reality, service charges arent required to go to workers the same way that tips are. Tips are legally protected as the property of the employee, but service charges count as restaurant sales, get taxed, and then are up to the restaurant to distribute. Since the rise of service charges, customers in D.C. are tipping less, and tipped workers like me are feeling it.

Now, more and more restaurants are finding they cant maintain the same staff in their D.C. locations anymore. The data speaks for itself: Local restaurant employment has already fallen by 4 percent since Initiative 82 went into effect in May 2023.

Tipped workers arent the only ones suffering. Back of the house employees  such as line cooks, dishwashers and maintenance staff  have been the first to face job cuts and have had fewer opportunities for salary increases.

In an effort to cope with rising labor costs for front-of-house staff, restaurants have had to make adjustments by limiting pay raises and making layoffs across all positions. Waves of individually-owned restaurants have had to shut their doors altogether, taking jobs and tip-earning opportunities with them. Some owners are now saying they may even move outside the city.

Raising the minimum wage and removing the tip credit has actually led to fewer tips and less take-home pay for us tipped workers. Some have lost their jobs entirely.

New Yorkers, dont believe the misinformation put out by those who dont work in the restaurant industry. Instead, listen to local servers and bartenders who dont want a bogus solution to a problem that doesnt exist. Tipped workers like me thrive under the tip credit system. Help us protect it.
By Dan Clark | Times Union, Albany

Albany, N.Y.  New York requires employers to offer health insurance to their workers that includes coverage for abortion services, but the states top court will soon decide if that regulation should be thrown out.

Arguments in a lawsuit challenging the regulation that was filed by a coalition of religious employers will be heard by the New York Court of Appeals next week, seven years after the case began.

Its a matter that could set a precedent on where the line exists between the power of government and the freedom of religion, said Gabriella Larios, a staff attorney with the New York Civil Liberties Union, which has filed motions in the case supporting the states position.

The appellants in this case are asking for a sweeping and very broad understanding of what is required under the First Amendment, Larios said.

At issue is a 2017 decision by former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and the state Department of Financial Services to issue a regulation requiring health insurers in New York to cover medically necessary abortions.

Religious groups  including several Catholic dioceses, other churches, and religiously affiliated companies  then sued the state to invalidate that regulation.

They argue the rule violates the First Amendment because it requires group health insurance plans offered to their employees to cover abortion, which theyre opposed to for religious reasons.

But Cuomo was not the target of that lawsuit; instead, it was Maria T. Vullo, who was superintendent of the agency at the time and oversaw the promulgation of the regulation.

DFS will take all necessary actions to make sure that insurers cover abortions and contraceptives with no copayments, deductibles or any out-of-pocket costs, Vullo said at the time. New York will not tolerate any impediments or impairments of womens rights and access to reproductive health care.

That remains the states position today. The state Legislature codified the regulation requiring insurance companies to cover abortion services into law two years ago.

That statute isnt being challenged in the Court of Appeals case  only the regulation, which is still on the books despite the law change.

That means if the regulation is struck down, insurers would still be required to cover abortion services because the law would remain in place.

But if the court tosses the rule, the statute could be next, according to Laura Etlinger, an assistant solicitor general scheduled to represent the state next week.

Because the legislation is co-extensive with the regulation, the legislation is subject to challenge on the basis of the same alleged infirmities, and thus does not appear to moot this appeal, Etlinger wrote in a brief filed with the Court of Appeals.

The religious groups challenging the regulation agree with that and see it as a potential positive outcome of the case, wrote Michael Costello, an attorney from Albany law firm Tobin and Dempf, one of the firms representing the regulations challengers. Costello is also the longtime attorney for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany.

Because the statute was enacted long after the complaints in this case were filed, the religious objectors have not, in this matter, directly challenged the statute, Costello wrote in his own brief to the Court of Appeals. The ruling in this matter concerning the regulation, however, would effectively determine the fate of the statute as well.

The regulation was adopted in response to efforts to roll back provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act, and to position New York as a state ahead of others on access to abortion.

These regulatory actions will help ensure that whatever happens at the federal level, women in our state will have cost-free access to reproductive health care and we hope these actions serve as a model for equality across the nation, Cuomo said at the time.

The regulation includes an exemption for certain religious employers, but only if they meet certain conditions.

An exemption is allowed for employers whose purpose is to promote their religious values, employ people who share the religious tenets of the employer, primarily serve people who share their religious tenets, or qualify as a religious nonprofit under federal regulations.

But that carve out is too narrow, the religious groups challenging the regulation have argued. They call the rule an abortion mandate.

The abortion mandate contains a narrow religious exemption that covers certain religious organizations but not others  a form of religious discrimination and interference with religious autonomy that is in the heartland of the First Amendments concern, Costello wrote.

Theres also a new factor in the case: a decision from the U.S. Supreme Court three years ago.

The court ruled in that case that the city of Philadelphia violated the First Amendment when it refused to contract with Catholic Charities over the organizations policy against allowing same-sex couples to be foster parents.

Back in New York, the religious groups challenging the abortion insurance regulation now argue the Philadelphia ruling supports their position and is a prime example of why the rule should be thrown out.

But the state disagrees, and is instead leaning on a decision from the Court of Appeals in 2006, when New Yorks highest court upheld a state law that requires insurance plans to cover prescription contraceptives if they already cover other prescriptions.

That law had a religious exemption as well, and Larios said the two cases should be viewed along the same lines.

The Court of Appeals already considered an exemption like this and already said these kinds of exemptions are permissible, she said.

___

(c)2024 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.)

Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com
The owners of Syracuses popular Apizza Regionale are planning to open a new Roman-inspired restaurant, bakery and food market in the village of Fayetteville.

Paulie Messina and John Stage recently signed a lease to take over the building that was once the home of Kirbys Grill & Taphouse at 408 E. Genesee St. The Kirbys closed in October 2022.

The new restaurant, which will likely open in about a year, will have a lot of components, Messina said

In the day, it will be a grab-and-go cafe with baked goods, pizzas by the slice, panini sandwiches and similar items, along with a market stocked with Italian foods and specialties for purchase. At night, it will become a Roman-style trattoria, with pizzas, pastas and and other dishes, a full cocktail bar and an Italian-centered wine list.

Were planning to have the best of Italian foods  part cafe, part bakery, gelato, pizzeria and trattoria all rolled into one, Messina said. The best of Italy coming to Fayetteville, New York.

Messina, who runs Apizza Regionale, and Stage, who also owns the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que restaurants, have enlisted a third partner in the new place. Amy Chrisogonou will have a share in the business and serve as the bakery and culinary manager in Fayetteville.

The concept is different from Apizza Regionale, whose rustic pizzas and pastas are based more on the cuisine of Naples. The new place will be inspired more by Roman foods and restaurants.

The pizzas at the Fayetteville location will also be different. Apizza Regionale uses a wood-fired oven imported from Naples that makes thin-crust blistered Neapolitan-style pies.

The Fayetteville location will have an electric oven, producing the Roman-style Pizza Al Taglio. These pizzas are rectangular in shape, with a thicker crust, and are a popular street food in Rome.

The name of the new place is still under discussion, but Messina said one idea is Apizza Alimentari, using an Italian word for food or groceries.

In 2016, Messina and Stage opened Apizza Regionale at 260 W. Genesee St. in downtown Syracuse. In addition to its wood-fired pizzas and rustic pasta dishes, it has an extensive cocktail menu. Its also known for sourcing ingredients from across New York state.

In 1988, Stage co-founded the original Dinosaur Bar-B-Que at the corner of Willow and Franklin streets, across from what is now the Apizza Regionale location. The Dinosaur has locations across Upstate New York and in the New York City area.

Messina is Stages long-time friend and served as bar manager at the Dinosaur for many years.

I am thrilled that we are opening a new restaurant in the great community of Fayetteville and Manlius, Messina said. That are already has a lot of great restaurants and its really a thrill to be part of it.

Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook.
A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a boy in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

JUBA, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Mary Keji, a resident of Nakituen Korok South area of Rajaf Payam, located seven km west of Juba, the capital of South Sudan, had been stuck for a month with her four-year-old sick child due to lack of a nearby health facility.

Her child Agnes Poni has been suffering from a combination of gastritis, flu and skin rash since March, but was not getting proper medical treatment until the opportunity arose during the visit of the 11th batch of the Chinese medical team to her village.

Keji said that she previously had sought treatment from several clinics in Juba, including Al Saba Children's Hospital, but the condition of her child had not improved.

"I moved with my child to several clinics but the condition of the child did not improve. I am happy to have got assistance from the Chinese doctors, I have spent a lot of money visiting private clinics," Keji said after the Chinese medics gave her medicine which could last for two weeks for her ailing child. "Private clinics are very expensive but the Chinese doctors are treating people here for free."

Gastritis is inflammation (irritation) of the stomach lining. This may be caused by many factors including infection, alcohol, particular medications and some allergic and immune conditions.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) headquarters is hosted on the community land in Nakituen Korok South along the Juba-Yei road.

The medical camp was initiated by the Chinese peacekeepers who often patrol the community in Nakituen Korok South.

Jane Yange, 69, who has suffered from gastritis for seven years, had also failed to get proper medication due to not only the lack of money but also the absence of a health facility in her locality.

"Whenever I could eat food, I develop diarrhea and stomach inflammation," she said. Yange was able to get free antibiotics and other medicine for her condition from the Chinese doctors.

Gabriel Ladu, community secretary of Nakituen Korok South, commended both the Chinese peacekeepers and the medical team for providing in-kind medical services to the community. "The Chinese peacekeepers are the ones who came up with this idea of bringing Chinese doctors to conduct medical camp here, we were not aware of the presence of the Chinese medical team in the country," Ladu said.

"We are the host community to the UNMISS headquarters and the Chinese peacekeepers are providing security to the community around the UN headquarters," he added.

Ladu said that the vital medical services provided to the community will help improve the lives of the local people. 

A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a child in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Doctors from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provide free treatment for people in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a man in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Doctors from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provide free treatment for people in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a child in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Doctors from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provide free treatment for people in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Editor: JYZ
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Facepalm: Users of Intel's high-end 13th-gen and 14th-gen CPUs have been complaining about instability issues in gaming for months. Now, Chipzilla will have to address negative feedback from GeForce GPU owners as well.

Nvidia's latest graphics drivers for GeForce GPUs include some interesting release notes, which the company is sharing on its official forums as well. The GeForce Game Ready Drivers version 552.12 provide a notable "please note" section at the end, addressing two specific issues related to Chromium-based applications (such as web browsers and Discord) and the challenges gamers have faced with Intel's Raptor Lake and Raptor Lake Refresh CPUs.

If a system built around an Intel 13th/14th Gen unlocked desktop CPU is experiencing stability issues, out-of-video-memory error messages, or crashes during shader compilation, the release notes advise users to seek troubleshooting assistance on Intel and Epic Games websites. The first site referenced by Nvidia links to Intel processor support forums, where an employee acknowledges the company's awareness of instability issues with "certain workloads."

Intel has stated it is actively collaborating with its partners and analyzing these issues to provide an effective solution, as noted in a statement made in February, although users continue to report crashes to this day. The second link provided by Nvidia directs users to the RAD Game Tools website, where Epic Games explains the nature of the issue.

The root cause of instability primarily experienced on Intel 13900K and 14900K processors, according to RAD, is a hardware issue that can lead to "Oodle Data decompression failures" or crashes in games built with the Unreal engine. A small fraction of the mentioned CPUs may exhibit this unpredictable behavior under heavy computing loads, which seems to be triggered by a combination of BIOS settings, high CPU clock rates, and power usage.

RAD's website offers successful workarounds to mitigate instability or crashes, including limiting the peak performance of Intel CPUs using software tools like Intel XTU and adjusting BIOS/UEFI firmware settings. It's hoped that Intel will release a definitive fix, likely through a microcode update, for its high-performance gaming processors in the near future.

Aside from the instability issues, Nvidia's latest GeForce drivers provide specific optimizations for Season 3 of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Diablo IV with its ray tracing upgrade. The driver release also addresses a bug in the Resizable BAR profile for Horizon Forbidden West. However, some issues affecting older GPU hardware (GeForce GTX 10/RTX 20 series), Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition, Tekken 8, and VR gaming will unfortunately require future fixes.
A new study from the University of Bonn claims that several mysterious fossilized bone fragments found since the 19th century may have been from a gigantic ancient sea creature called ichthyosaur. Previously, the origin of such bone fragments baffled paleontologists for 150 years.

The bone fragments were discovered all across Western and Central Europe. The mysterious bones' discovery started in 1850, wherein British scientist Samuel Stutchbury discovered a massive, cylindrical bone fragment at Aust Cliff, a fossil deposit close to Bristol.

Since then, other locations throughout Europe have yielded similar bone fragments, such as Bonenburg in North Rhine-Westphalia and the Provence region of France. These regions were buried beneath a massive ocean that covered large portions of Western and Central Europe more than 200 million years ago. The sediment has retained fossils from that era's animal life, including marine and coastal inhabitants.

The animal species to which these massive, petrified bones belonged is still up for discussion. Examining the initial discoveries, Stutchbury surmised that they originated from an extinct land species resembling a crocodile called a labyrinthodontia. Other scientists, however, cast doubt on this theory, believing that the fossils were actually from stegosaurs, long-necked dinosaurs (sauropods), or an as-yet-unidentified group of dinosaurs.

Now, amid these different theories on the mysterious fossils, a new study spearheaded by Prof. Martin Sander along with young researcher Marcello Perillo in the Institute of Geosciences at the University of Bonn re-analyzes the microstructure of the fossilized bone tissue to truly find its origin.

Read Also: Unlocking the Secrets of Flight: Feather Analysis Reveals Evolutionary Patterns

Ichthyosaur Remains

Perillo claims that when comparing specimens from Bonenburg, France, and South West England, they all showed a very particular set of characteristics. This finding suggested that they could belong to the same phylum. Then, using a powerful microscope, he was able to demonstrate the unique structure of the bone wall: it featured long strands of protein fiber known as mineralized collagen intertwined in a way not previously seen in other bones.

It is interesting to note that the bone wall structure of fossilized giant ichthyosaurs from Canada is strikingly similar. Nevertheless, Perillo's analysis of fossil materials from several animal families did not reveal this structure.

He goes on to say that the evidence contradicts the theory that the bones are from a land-dwelling dinosaur and that it appears highly likely that the fragments in question also belong to an ichthyosaur.

The fossils most likely originate from a sea creature's bottom jaw. It is feasible to estimate the length of the animals by comparing the size of the fragments with the jaws of other species in this animal group. As previously suggested by ichthyosaur theory proponents, the animals may have reached a length of 25 to 30 meters.

Chinese Dragon Fossil Remains

The origins of ancient fossil remains continue to progress. Recently, a 240-million-year-old fossil that resembles a "Chinese dragon" was discovered in Guizhou Province, southern China, by researchers from the National Museums Scotland.

The specimen was recognized as that of a 5-meter-long Triassic water reptile called Dinocephalosaurus orientalis. It resembled the Middle Triassic European and Chinese sea lizard Tanystropheus hydroides, which had a long neck and 32 vertebrae.

Related Article: What Killed the Dinosaurs After the Asteroid Impact? Scientists Finally Have an Answer
Two weeks after Sam Bankman-Fried's prison sentence was handed out to him, he and his legal team are now pushing to appeal his case, centering on the federal fraud and conspiracy conviction earlier this year.

To date, Bankman-Fried still appeals his innocence amidst the facts of the case, centering on the earlier trial and the testimonies of his colleagues against him.

Before the conviction and sentencing, Bankman-Fried and his team had long appealed the trial verdict and maintained throughout the case that he had nothing to do with the misappropriation of customer and investor funds.

Sam Bankman-Fried Appeals 25-Year Prison Sentence, Fraud Conviction

CNBC reports that SBF and his legal team submitted their notice of appeal for the 25-year prison sentence and federal fraud conviction handed down earlier this year.

In Bankman-Fried's fraud conviction, he was ordered to pay $11 billion in forfeiture for his former actions against FTX and Alameda Research and was subsequently given 25 years to serve.

Judge Lewis Kaplan is known for trying Bankman-Fried's case and has previously regarded the convicted fraudster as at a massive risk in the future.

Additionally, he claimed that SBF did not show any remorse throughout the trial and after the verdict, conviction, and sentencing.

Bankman-Fried still maintains his innocence and is known for previously blaming other FTX executives and lawyers for what happened to the company and the customers' money.

What Will Happen to SBF's Appeal Case?

A three-judge panel of the 2nd Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in Manhattan will hear Bankman-Fried's appeal case, but if it is rejected, he will still have another chance to petition the U.S. Supreme Court.

It also follows the pending sentencing for other FTX and Alameda executives who initially pled guilty and cooperated with the U.S. government to testify against SBF.

Sam Bankman-Fried and FTX

November 2022 marked the end of the beginning for Sam Bankman-Fried, and this was the day FTX filed for bankruptcy, with the CEO stepping down from his position.

However, when he stepped away, FTX quickly pointed the finger at Bankman-Fried about the missing funds, with the founder claiming that he had nothing to do with it.

This led to him fleeing to his Bahamas residence, being arrested and extradited to the US, and seeing pre-trial where he pled not guilty.

Later, his case trial commenced, and the jury found him guilty, with his former peers testifying on his fraudulent actions.

Despite all of these, Bankman-Fried maintained his innocence and fought it until the present, initially asking for only five years of prison time.

After his conviction and sentence, Bankman-Fried is back at it again to fight against these charges against his name, with the appeal set to be heard by the 2nd District US Court of Appeals in Manhattan soon.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy expressed frustration with regulatory obstacles that have impeded the company's acquisition endeavors.

In January, Amazon, the world's largest e-commerce platform, decided not to proceed with its $1.4 billion acquisition of iRobot, the manufacturer of Roomba robot cleaners, due to concerns raised by the European Union (EU) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

According to The Verge, Jassy said authorities worried Amazon would emphasize Roomba over rivals' goods, which is not his company's practice.

Dismissing Antitrust Allegations

Jassy expressed disbelief towards the FTC's accusations of anticompetitive practices against Amazon. Despite the FTC's claims, he denied any allegations that Amazon manipulates search results to favor its own products.



Andy Jassy raised concerns about regulators' trust in Chinese companies compared to Amazon, highlighting worries regarding privacy and data stewardship. In response to privacy concerns about acquiring Ring, a smart doorbell business, Amazon settled with the FTC for millions.



Amazon's top executive acknowledged that when it comes to Amazon's acquisition strategy, market position tends to be the driving factor rather than technology.

He was disappointed that regulatory obstacles prevented Amazon from acquiring AI company Anthropic, which led the company to pursue other partnership options.

(Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images) Andy Jassy, Amazon President & CEO, attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Amazon Prime Video's "The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power" at The Culver Studios on August 15, 2022, in Culver City, California.

Jassy Acknowledges AI's Significant Role in Company's Future

Meanwhile, in a recent letter to shareholders, Jassy highlighted that the AI revolution will be cloud-based, removing the need for major relocation, per Business Insider. He also emphasized the importance of security in AI, particularly regarding customers' sensitive data stored within AI models, highlighting the potential societal and business benefits.



Despite the long road ahead, he expressed optimism about Amazon's Project Kuiper, which aims to install broadband satellites. An estimated $10 billion initiative is underway to launch a constellation of over 3,200 satellites within a span of six years.

Jassy provided an overview of Amazon's AI strategy, which involves three layers: building foundational models, utilizing existing ones, and implementing pre-built AI applications customized for specific requirements and expertise.

"The team is also building a set of foundation AI models to better identify products in complex environments, optimize the movement of our growing robotic fleet, and better manage the bottlenecks in our facilities," he stated.

In the annual letter, he highlighted Amazon's key principles for success and resilience and emphasized the significance of recruiting innovative talent, focusing on customer-centric solutions, and investing in foundational tools to foster innovation.

In addition, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy emphasized the online retail giant's dedication to ongoing enhancements, such as reviewing cost-saving strategies and improving customer product delivery speed. Amazon is focused on improving customer experiences and operational efficiency despite AWS layoffs.
Don Beyer, a Virginia Democrat and car dealership owner, enrolled in machine learning at George Mason University to grasp AI, which led him back to school.

As lawmakers navigate AI regulation, understanding its potential and risks becomes crucial.

WASHINGTON, DC - NOVEMBER 16: House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee Chairman Don Beyer (D-VA) (R) gavels to order a hearing about recent scientific results produced by the James Webb Space Telescope with ranking member Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill on November 16, 2022 in Washington, DC. NASA Astrophysics Division Director Dr. Mark Clampin shared a new image produced by the cutting-edge telescope of the protostar L1527 and answered questions about low- and high-energy micrometeoroid strikes that have affected Webb's productivity and longevity. (Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

A Lawmaker's Journey into AI Education

A congressman's quest to understand AI led him back to the classroom. Congressman Don Beyer has a varied background, from early website adoption for his businesses to leading bipartisan initiatives on fusion energy.

Despite being 73 years old, he enjoys reading geometry books in his free time. When confronted with questions about AI regulation, the Associated Press reported that Beyer chose an unconventional path.

He enrolled at George Mason University to pursue a master's degree in machine learning.

While this decision may seem unusual for a lawmaker, it reflects a broader trend among members of Congress seeking to grasp AI concepts as they contemplate legislation to regulate its development.

AI elicits different reactions from people: some are alarmed by it, others find it thrilling, and many are simply baffled.

As lawmakers navigate the complexities of regulating AI, they must find a balance between harnessing its potential benefits and addressing its risks, posing a significant challenge for Congress.

Expressing optimism about AI's potential, Beyer highlighted the need to discern between its realities and misconceptions.

He emphasized during a class at George Mason University that AI will revolutionize daily life, dispelling notions of menacing robots.

However, he cautioned against overlooking existential risks such as job displacement and the propagation of biased information through AI technologies like deepfakes.

Conversely, overly stringent regulations could impede innovation, hindering the nation's competitiveness in the global AI race.

Navigating AI Regulation

Achieving the right balance requires input from various groups, including technology supporters and critics, as well as industries affected by AI.

Representative Jay Obernolte, leading the House's AI Task Force, stresses the need for lawmakers to understand AI beyond Hollywood portrayals like "The Terminator" or "The Matrix."

With a background in engineering and AI studies, Obernolte highlights lawmakers' responsibility to grasp AI's complexities, a task he readily assists with.

He notes bipartisan recognition of this responsibility, similar to navigating complex legislative areas like healthcare and finance.

Congress has long struggled to keep pace with technological progress, dating back to the steam engine and the cotton gin, which transformed industry and agriculture.

Also read : AI Crimes Could be Met With Harsher Sentences, Warns Justice Department

Nuclear power and weaponry are more recent examples of complex subjects that lawmakers have grappled with. Kenneth Lowande, a political scientist at the University of Michigan, notes that expertise plays a crucial role in congressional policymaking.

To address this challenge, Congress has established various offices, such as the Library of Congress and the Congressional Budget Office, to offer specialized resources and input.

Additionally, lawmakers depend on knowledgeable staff members who specialize in different fields, including technology.
Apple's artificial intelligence-centered M4 processing chips are set to be incorporated into almost every Mac variety released by the iPhone maker, as reported by Bloomberg. This is a bid to boost the Apple Mac Line's sales via AI capabilities.

According to persons with knowledge of the situation, the tech giant, which debuted its first Macs with M3 chips five months ago, is already close to starting manufacturing of the next version, the M4 CPU.

(Photo: Wes Hicks from Unsplash) A new security flaw in the Apple M-series chip is discovered to be unpatchable. The Silicon Macs are not spared from being hijacked by threat actors with encryption keys.

According to insiders who asked not to be named because the plans have not been made public, Apple intends to replace every Mac model with the new CPU, which will be available in at least three main varieties.

The business plans to ship the redesigned laptops in late 2024 or early 2025. The lineup will include new iMacs, Mac minis, high-end 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros, and a low-end 14-inch MacBook Pro.

The new Macs are being developed at a crucial moment. Mac sales dropped 27% in the most recent fiscal year, which concluded in September, following a peak in 2022.

The computer line's income was flat during the holidays. With an M3-focused launch event in October of last year, Apple attempted to revitalize the Mac industry, but those chips did not much outperform the M2 from the previous year.

The M4 chip family consists of a top-tier processor code-named Hidra, more potent Brava models, and an entry-level model called Donan.

The upcoming macOS version, unveiled in June at Apple's annual developer conference, will be showcased by the corporation and its AI processing capabilities.

Read Also: Apple Chooses Baidu's AI for iPhone 16 in China: Report

Apple's Latest AI Model

As the AI race continues, Apple continues to catch up as seen by the announcement of its newest system, Reference Resolution As Language Modeling (ReALM), which it claims outperforms GPT-4 in some areas. .

The ReALM system, according to the Apple team, is positioned as a superior product that outperforms current LLMs, particularly in processing particular types of queries. This means that it is not just an attempt to catch up with competitors.

The Apple team's report claims that ReALM's distinct capacity to decipher murky on-screen references and retrieve conversational and background data makes it stand out in offering more accurate answers to user queries.

Better than GPT-4

ReALM seeks to improve the accuracy of its responses by better understanding the user's intent behind a query by utilizing contextual clues from the user's screen and ongoing device activities.

Extensive testing against multiple LLMs, notably GPT-4, according to the researchers, has shown that ReALM performs better on some tasks.

Additionally, they imply that Apple intends to incorporate ReALM into its ecosystem, enhancing Siri's capacity to offer more pertinent responses. However, this might necessitate an iOS 18 upgrade for consumers when it launches later this year.

Related Article: iPhone of AI: Jony Ive, Sam Altman Pursue $1 Billion Investment for Revolutionary AI Device

(Photo: Tech Times)
A new startup, Vals.ai, is looking to create a standardized test for measuring artificial intelligence and large language models, intending to create a universal way of testing out AI in specific aspects, as reported by Bloomberg.

Along with founding engineer Rez Havaei, Rayan Krishnan and Langston Nashold left Stanford's master's program in artificial intelligence to start Vals.ai.

The business is developing an unbiased, third-party review system for large-language models in collaboration with Stanford researchers and industry specialists in fields including accounting, law, and finance.

The startup also develops test questions using statistics relevant to academia and industry.

(Photo by NICOLAS MAETERLINCK/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images) The illustration picture shows the ChatGPT artificial intelligence software, which generates human-like conversation, on Friday, 03 February 2023, in Lierde. BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK (Photo by NICOLAS MAETERLINCK / BELGA MAG / Belga via AFP)

Following a brief peek earlier in the year, Vals.ai officially debuted on Thursday. The company also said it had secured an unknown sum of pre-seed money from Pear VC, with further involvement from a Sequoia scout investor.

The desire for objective testing is reflected in investor interest, especially as more businesses consider using AI for specialized professional duties.

Krishnan's organization has already discovered potential flaws in AI models. According to recommendations from an accountant the business hired, Vals.ai's initial report revealed that top models struggled with tax-related queries.

The most accurate model, GPT-4 from OpenAI, achieved an accuracy rate of 54.5%. The accuracy of Google's Gemini Pro was only 31.3% of the time. To put it another way: Hold off on firing your accountant.

Read Also: Texas Brings AI-Powered Student Essays Test Grader, Different from ChatGPT

The Need for Standardized AI Tests

Even though artificial intelligence startups are receiving billions of dollars in funding, the industry lacks an impartial, industry-standard test to evaluate the performance of AI software.

Competitor Anthropic to OpenAI has stated that many existing assessments of an AI model's safety and capabilities are "limited."

Furthermore, Aiden Gomez, the CEO of Cohere, has referred to the public model evaluation process as a "broken" system.

Because of this, AI companies usually create their own benchmarks to demonstrate how well their services perform on reading comprehension, mathematics, and Python coding tasks.

AI Safety Testing

While tech giants continue to look for standardized tests on AI, the United States, and the United Kingdom recently announced they will be collaborating to test out AI models' safety.

The two AI safety testing groups in each country will develop a common approach for AI safety testing that requires using the same tools and supporting infrastructure, according to a press release.

Additionally, it stated that the institutes intend to work together to test an AI model that the entire public can use. The organizations would try to switch employees and exchange data while adhering to contracts, national laws, and regulations.

Legislators and tech industry leaders will probably rely on AI safety institutes to help lower the hazards associated with quickly developing AI systems.

The companies that made ChatGPT, Claude, and Anthropic, respectively, have published detailed plans for how safety testing will direct the creation of new products in the future.

The recently concluded AI Act of the European Union and U.S. The executive order issued by President Joe Biden mandates that companies developing advanced artificial intelligence models disclose the results of their safety testing.

Related Article: Top Japanese Companies Demand AI Regulation: "Democracy and Social Order Could Collapse"

(Photo: Tech Times)
CISA claims that the recent Russian data hack on Microsoft that revealed private government data puts U.S. agencies in danger, as reported by the Washington Post.

The successful hacking of Microsoft corporate email accounts and the eavesdropping on agency-Microsoft interaction put agencies at unimaginable risk, according to CISA.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency of the Department of Homeland Security issued an extraordinary and legally enforceable order on Tuesday to an unidentified number of companies, requiring them to change any stolen log-in credentials and investigate possible security breaches.

The mandate was made public on Thursday, after which the recipients began strengthening their defenses.

Photo: (GERARD JULIEN/AFP via Getty Images) The logo of the French headquarters of American multinational technology company Microsoft is pictured outside on March 6, 2018, in Issy-Les-Moulineaux, a Paris suburb.

According to CISA, agencies must examine the content of exfiltrated emails, reset any compromised credentials, and take further precautions to guarantee the security of the authentication methods for privileged Microsoft Azure accounts.

Because the entire U.S. government uses Microsoft's Windows operating system, Outlook email, and other applications, the Redmond, Washington-based corporation bears a great deal of responsibility for the cybersecurity of federal employees' work. Consequently, a breach on the tech giant could also mean a breach against the government.

Read Also: Microsoft Eyes New London AI Hub Led by Google DeepMind Co-Founder

Russian-Backed Microsoft Breach

The warning on Tuesday broadens the potential consequences of a breach that Microsoft revealed to the government and significant corporate clients in January. Some of these clients resell Microsoft goods to other parties.

A month ago, the software behemoth announced it might target its email correspondence with hackers.

According to CISA officials, it is yet unknown whether the hackers connected to the Russian military intelligence agency SVR could get any information from the agencies that were made public.

Some security experts refer to the hacker organization as Cozy Bear or APT29, while Microsoft refers to it as Midnight Blizzard.

Microsoft's Cybersecurity

Microsoft's cybersecurity efforts continue to receive criticism. Notably, the U.S. Cyber Safety Review Board recently asserted that the tech giant's series of security lapses and deficient security culture may have avoided the Exchange Online Software incident that occurred in 2023.

President Biden ordered the report, which describes Microsoft's actions before, during, and following the extensive hack and identifies key failures in each instance; the intrusion was deemed "preventable."

The Board also concluded that Microsoft needed to alter its security culture because it was inadequate and fell short of customer expectations, particularly in light of the company's significance to the technology ecosystem and the extent to which clients depend on it to safeguard their information and business processes.

A representative of Microsoft stated in the report that Microsoft completely cooperated with the Board's examination.

The company also acknowledged the CSRB's examination into the impact of highly resourced nation-state threat actors that function continuously without the use of effective deterrents.

Related Article: Microsoft to Invest 'Biggest-Ever' $2.9 Billion in Japan's AI Sector, Plans Unveiled Soon
OpenAI has unveiled more updates to its viral chatbot ChatGPT, promising it to be more direct and less verbose.

Premium ChatGPT users, including those subscribed to ChatGPT Plus, Team, or Enterprise plans, now have access to an updated version of GPT-4 Turbo, a core model powering the ChatGPT conversational platform.

OpenAI Unveils "gpt-4-turbo-2024-04-09"

This new iteration, known as "gpt-4-turbo-2024-04-09," brings forth several enhancements across various domains, including improvements in writing, mathematical reasoning, logical deduction, and coding proficiency.



OpenAI said that this updated version incorporates a more contemporary knowledge base. It was trained on publicly available data until December 2023, as opposed to the previous edition, which had a data cut-off point in April 2023.

One notable improvement highlighted by OpenAI is the refinement in the nature of responses generated by ChatGPT when utilizing the new GPT-4 Turbo model.

Specifically, users can anticipate responses to be more direct, less verbose, and characterized by a conversational tone.

"Our new GPT-4 Turbo is now available to paid ChatGPT users. We've improved capabilities in writing, math, logical reasoning, and coding," OpenAI wrote in a post on X.

"For example, when writing with ChatGPT, responses will be more direct, less verbose, and use more conversational language. We continue to invest in making our models better and look forward to seeing what you do. If you haven't tried it yet, GPT-4 Turbo is available in ChatGPT Plus, Team, Enterprise, and the API. "

OpenAI Introduces Enhancements to its Fine-tuning API

In recent news, OpenAI has unveiled enhancements to its fine-tuning API and expanded its custom models program, providing developers with increased control over model customization.

The fine-tuning API, launched in August 2023, allows organizations to train models for specific tasks, augmenting existing knowledge and capabilities.

It supports more examples, facilitating higher-quality results while reducing cost and latency. Common use cases include code generation, text summarization, and personalized content creation.

New features introduced include epoch-based checkpoint creation, comparative playground for model evaluation, third-party integration support, comprehensive validation metrics, hyperparameter configuration, and fine-tuning dashboard improvements.

Additionally, OpenAI has formalized its assisted fine-tuning offering as part of the Custom Model program, catering to organizations requiring tailored model performance.

According to the company, this collaborative effort leverages advanced techniques to maximize model performance for specific tasks or domains.
US space scientists have unveiled the much-anticipated Europa Clipper spacecraft. This interplanetary probe, a key component of NASA's ambitious search for extraterrestrial life, is about to set out on a groundbreaking mission to Europa, one of Jupiter's icy moons.

Europa, among the 95 moons encircling the gas giant Jupiter, stands out as a prime candidate for potential extraterrestrial life due to its subsurface ocean, believed to be buried beneath an icy shell.

The mission's overarching goal, as stated by Bob Pappalardo, the mission's project scientist, is to address the fundamental question that has long intrigued humanity: "Are we alone in the cosmos?"

NASA's $5 Billion Europa Clipper Mission

With a $5 billion budget, the Europa Clipper is meticulously prepared in a sealed "clean room" at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California to avoid contamination, which is critical to the mission's integrity.

Equipped with a suite of sophisticated instruments including cameras, spectrometers, a magnetometer, and radar, the Clipper is primed to conduct an exhaustive investigation of Europa's mysterious terrain.

These instruments, as Pappalardo tells AP, possess the capability to penetrate the moon's icy crust, potentially revealing the presence of liquid water-a vital precursor for life as we understand it.

However, the journey to uncover Europa's secrets is filled with challenges. The spacecraft must deal with a powerful radiation field surrounding Europa, which poses a threat to its sensitive instruments. Furthermore, the long distances involved cause significant communication delays, with data taking around 45 minutes to reach Mission Control.

Furthermore, the spacecraft's reliance on solar power poses an important problem, particularly during its time on Jupiter's dimly lit surface. Jordan Evans, the Europa Clipper mission's project manager, explained the stark contrast in power generation, pointing out the precipitous drop from 23,000 watts near Earth to a mere 700 watts at Jupiter.

Members of the media visited a clean room at JPL April 11 to get a close-up look at NASAs Europa Clipper spacecraft and interview members of the mission team. The spacecraft is expected to launch in October 2024 on a six-year journey to the Jupiter system, where it will study the ice-encased moon Europa.

Europa Clipper Spacecraft Launching Later This Year

Scheduled to launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket on a period that opens on Oct. 10, the spacecraft will undertake a six-year odyssey, punctuated by flybys of Mars and Earth, before arriving at Jupiter in 2030.

Once in orbit around Jupiter, the Europa Clipper will conduct a series of close flybys of Europa, dipping as close as 16 miles from its surface, gathering crucial data to unlock the secrets of the icy moon.

While the mission does not explicitly seek signs of life, its findings could provide invaluable insights into the potential habitability of Europa and, by extension, other celestial bodies within our solar system and beyond.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.
In a recent cybersecurity finding by Proofpoint researchers, a threat actor utilized a PowerShell script, likely generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) systems such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, or Microsoft's CoPilot.

The alarming attack targeted numerous organizations in Germany, indicating that this AI-written malware needs to be addressed seriously.

AI-Generated Malware Deployment

Security researchers at Proofpoint identified the attack and attributed it to a threat actor known as TA547, also referred to as Scully Spider. TA547 has a history of deploying various malware strains across both Windows and Android systems since 2017. However, this recent campaign marked the first instance of the actor employing the Rhadamanthys information stealer, a modular malware designed to exfiltrate sensitive data.

What's The Attack Vector

The attack vector employed by TA547 involved impersonating the reputable German brand Metro cash-and-carry in email communications. These emails contained ZIP archives, ostensibly housing invoices, with the password "MAR26."

Upon extraction, a malicious shortcut file triggered PowerShell to execute a remote script, facilitating the deployment of the Rhadamanthys malware.

AI Influence in Malicious Code

Analysts scrutinizing the PowerShell script observed peculiar characteristics, including specific comments for each component, reminiscent of code generated by AI solutions.

While definitive confirmation of AI involvement remains elusive, the structure and composition of the script strongly suggest the utilization of generative AI technology.

Exploring the Role of AI in Cybersecurity Threats

The integration of AI in cybercriminal activities represents a concerning trend, enabling threat actors to enhance the sophistication and efficacy of their attacks.

Since the release of AI models like ChatGPT, malicious actors have leveraged these tools to craft tailored phishing emails, conduct network reconnaissance, and develop convincing phishing pages.

AI-Mediated Threat Operations

State-sponsored threat groups from nations like China, Iran, and Russia have also embraced generative AI to streamline their operations, including target reconnaissance, tool development, and evasion tactics. However, AI platforms are increasingly implementing safeguards to prevent their exploitation for malicious purposes, with instances of state-sponsored groups being banned from AI platforms.

"The PowerShell script suspected of being LLM-generated is meticulously commented with impeccable grammar. Nearly every line of code has some associated comment," the director of Threat Research at Proofpoint Daniel Blackford told BleepingComputer.

Blackford said that developers can write good code, but AI has a bothersome task that humans can correct: its confusing and erroneous grammar in a sentence.

The Future of AI in Cybersecurity

It is suggested that an effective collaboration between security researchers, AI developers, and regulatory authorities is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with AI-mediated cyberattacks. Additionally, ongoing advancements in AI detection and mitigation technologies are essential to safeguarding digital ecosystems against evolving threats.

While AI offers immense potential for innovation and advancement, its misuse by threat actors outweighs its purpose. When used in exploitation, it can turn things around a lot.

Earlier this year, the British Spy agency Government Communications Headquarters warned that AI will speed up the social engineering progress of hackers in cyberattacks.
MPs have made it clear that the UK government has to develop a comprehensive TikTok policy to combat the spread of false information among UK youth, according to the cross-party culture, media, and sport (CMS) committee.



The CMS committee stressed the need for the UK government to adapt to youth-oriented applications and platforms that deviate from traditional news sources. A Friday report urged "trusted voices," such as scientists and medical professionals, to disseminate essential information and counteract the spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation online, according to The Guardian.



TikTok's representative supported the committee's suggestion for government participation on public social media sites in light of Ofcom data indicating that one in 10 children aged 12-15 years use TikTok as their main news source, while 71% of 16-24-year-olds use it in addition to traditional news sources.

Collaboration Across Sectors Needed to Beat Misinformation

Due to the rapid development of information sources, the committee emphasized the importance of a clear government strategy to interact with and adapt to younger demographics, particularly given the proliferation of new applications and platforms. Rebecca Skippage, BBC disinformation editor, emphasized the importance of broadcasters immersing themselves in social media and learning from misinformation experts to engage people.



Consumer advocate Martin Lewis testified that he used TikTok to combat falsehoods. The UK parliament banned TikTok from its network and official electronic devices due to its growing popularity. Despite these restrictions, Defense Secretary Grant Shapps admitted that he uses TikTok; however, his spokesperson confirmed that the official does not use government devices.



Dame Caroline Dinenage, MP, CMS Committee Chair, stressed the need for reliable and authoritative information to counteract social media disinformation.



"With social media misinformation still a problem, it's more important than ever that communities across the country have access to accurate and authoritative information communicated in an open and relatable way," Dinenage said.



Dame Dinenage also demanded clarification on the National Academies' public discourse role. She said that without clear government goals, judging their public engagement efficacy and value for money would be more challenging.

In this photo illustration, the TikTok app logo is displayed on an iPhone on February 28, 2023 in London, England.

The committee recommended the UK government use its vast expert pool, building on Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance's crucial involvement during the COVID-19 epidemic. This suggestion supports government openness and public confidence by providing policy evidence, especially in misinformation-prone areas.

TikTok Boosting Commitment to STEM Content in Europe

TechTimes previously reported that TikTok is expanding its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) stream to Europe, demonstrating its dedication to educational material. ThisTikTok strategy comes despite scrutiny in the US. and UK,



After a successful US launch last year, TikTok is launching its STEM channel in the UK and Ireland. This comes amid platform issues in the US and UK Reaffirming its commitment to educational material, TikTok wants to launch its STEM stream across Europe. The deployment will start in the UK and Ireland, spreading beyond the United States.



Under-18 users will receive the STEM feed immediately, along with the "For You" and "Following" feeds. The app's "content preferences" options allow adults to enable the STEM feed, making it accessible to more people. The STEM stream will mostly offer English videos with auto-translated subtitles.



Since its U.S. launch, 33% of TikTok users and a third of adolescents have visited its STEM stream weekly. Over the previous three years, the feed has increased American STEM content by 24% and posted approximately 15 million STEM films internationally.
Russian-backed hackers under the group "Midnight Blizzard" have stolen emails from US federal agencies, the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said.

The scheme was made in an ongoing Microsoft hack and this prompted the agency to immediately act and figure out what happened in the first place.

CISA Confirmed Hack Spearheaded by Russian Cybercriminals

In its press release released on Thursday, CISA disclosed that the cyberattack, initially reported by Microsoft in January, resulted in the compromise of Microsoft corporate email accounts, granting unauthorized access to federal government emails.

CISA has identified the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) as the perpetrator behind the attack, emphasizing the significant risk it poses to affected agencies.

In response, the agency issued an emergency directive on April 2, mandating immediate action by civilian government agencies to secure their email accounts in light of heightened intrusions by Russian hackers.

While CISA did not specify the federal agencies impacted by the email theft, the agency's quick action will increase the chance of mitigating its effects, thereby decreasing the severity of the attack.

"The Directive was initially issued to federal agencies on April 2nd based upon currently available threat information and limited applicability of relevant actions, which are predicated on notification of exposed credentials by Microsoft. This Directive requires agencies to analyze potentially affected emails, reset any compromised credentials, and take additional steps to secure privileged Microsoft Azure accounts," CISA explained.

Related Article : Microsoft Confirms It Has Yet to Contain Russian State Hack

Microsoft's Role and Continued Challenges

As a critical technology provider for the US government, Microsoft has faced increased perusal over its security practices in the wake of multiple intrusions by state-sponsored hackers.

According to FirstPost, the breach in January targeted Microsoft's corporate email systems, compromising accounts of senior leadership and personnel across various departments.

Despite ongoing efforts by the Redmond giant to expel the hackers from its systems, the attack persists, triggering concerns about the effectiveness of current remediation efforts.

The recent breach amplifies existing concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities within US government systems. A separate investigation attributed an earlier breach in 2023 to Chinese government-backed hackers, citing security lapses within Microsoft's infrastructure.

Moreover, a misconfiguration of a Microsoft-hosted cloud email server led to the exposure of personal information for 20,000 individuals, as reported by the US Department of Defense in February.

Now going back to Russian hackers, a different group of threat actors was allegedly involved in the Sweden ransomware cyberattack in late January.

According to Tech Times, the cybercriminals targeted one data center of Tietoevry. The authorities said at the time that it would take several days or even weeks for the systems to be restored.

For Sweden to avoid future attacks, there's a need for rapid digitalization. However, it appears that cybersecurity is not the country's priority at the moment.
Google recently announced the discontinuation of a key phone feature, leaving many of its fans bewildered. The feature, originally touted as an additional layer of online protection for Android users, is part of Google One, the company's comprehensive backup subscription service.

Google One offers users storage for photos, videos, and additional space for Gmail, along with the added bonus of a VPN for privacy protection.

Reasons Behind Google One VPN Shutdown

According to a statement provided to 9to5Google, Google decided to discontinue the VPN feature due to low usage among users.

Despite its potential benefits for enhancing online privacy, the feature failed to attract sufficient traction since the company said that people simply weren't using it".

How Google One Users Reacted

The announcement sparked disappointment among Google One users, who expressed their discontent online. Many lamented the simplicity and convenience of the feature, viewing its removal as an inconvenience. Some users criticized Google for the shrinking benefits of Google One subscriptions, citing recent service cancellations and the transition of others to free offerings.

As spotted by The Sun on Reddit, one user said that he was "still using Google One" when Google announced that it would be discontinued.

Perfect Replacement For Soon-to-Be Phased Out VPN

In light of the impending shutdown of the VPN feature in Google One, users may explore alternative VPN options available. While several free VPN alternatives exist, users are advised to conduct thorough research to assess their privacy policies and suitability for their needs.

They can use Proton VPN which offers a free option with access to servers in the Netherlands, Japan, and the United States, albeit limited to one device at a time. On top of that, the Opera web browser is also available and it includes a built-in free VPN feature for desktop and Android users, providing access to servers in three general locations.

If the first two Google One VPN alternatives are not appealing to you, you can also explore TunnelBear VPN. This offers users access to its global servers, although usage is restricted to 500MB of data per month.

Google One holds promising user growth, reaching the 100 million subscribers milestone in late January, but its VPN feature did not live up to expectations.

In other news, a reliable tech tipster said that his sources have ideas about the release of AI chip-infused Macs.

According to Mark Gurman's sources, three new M4 Mac variants are coming this year. They are hiding under codenames Hidra, Brava, and Donan.

Regular Macs are not the only gadgets that will receive a refreshed design and features. It is anticipated that the MacBook Air and Mac Studio will get an upgrade they need in late 2024.

The Mac Pro will also undergo the same treatment, but it might take at least 2025 to achieve that.
The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think group, reported on Friday that it had been the target of a cyberattack earlier in the week.



Heritage is responding to the intrusion, a source said. However, the scope of any data leak is unknown. While investigating the issue, Heritage shut down its network to avoid future malicious activity.

Is The Cyberattack on Heritage Politically Motivated?

According to the report from TechCrunch, which also cited info from Politico, a Heritage Foundation official blamed nation-state hackers for the cyberattack but provided no evidence.Heritage spokesperson Noah Weinrich declined to comment on the matter.



Recently, the Heritage Foundation has accused the Biden administration of favoring ideological agendas over national interests in its State Department selections, a break from typical diplomatic nominations.



Heritage Senior Fellow Mike Gonzalez stated in his piece that Secretary of State Antony Blinken's decision to appoint Zakiya Carr Johnson as Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer has raised questions about the administration's diversity efforts. Moreover, Johnson's mandate to promote diversity, equality, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) at the department has sparked questions about its usefulness in diplomatic circles.

The conservative think tank organization has criticized the Biden administration's staunch devotion to DEI ideals despite "the private sector seems to be running away from DEI with as much speed as it initially rushed into the embrace of these dubious trainings and practices." The opinion piece said recent corporate hostility toward DEI has shown its divisiveness and doubtful efficacy.

The Black Lives Matter movement, which inspired the 2020 societal unrest, spurred broad adoption of DEI across institutions.



The Heritage Foundation, founded in 1973 and based in Washington, D.C., advocates and lobbies on conservative topics, influencing Republican politics. Like many notable think tanks, Heritage has been the target of hacking and espionage due to its ties to political and policymaking circles, many of which include former U.S. administration officials.

Heritage has had similar security breaches before, wherein hackers stole donor emails and personal data from the charity in 2015.

In this photo illustration a young man types on an illuminated computer keyboard typically favored by computer coders on January 25, 2021 in Berlin, Germany.

US Government Agencies Under High-Risk

TechTimes recently reported that the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under the Department of Homeland Security has warned that the recent Russian data breach targeting Microsoft poses a major danger to U.S. federal organizations.



The CISA warns that accessing Microsoft's corporate email accounts and spying on agency-Microsoft communications poses an unprecedented risk to government institutions.



After the incident, CISA issued an unusual and legally obligatory request to multiple organizations to replace compromised login passwords and investigate any security breaches. On Thursday, the mandate became public, compelling recipients to enhance their measures against cyberattacks.



CISA advises agencies to review exfiltrated emails, reset compromised passwords, and secure privileged Microsoft Azure accounts.

The entire U.S. government uses Microsoft's Windows operating system, Outlook email, and other software, making it responsible for federal employees' cybersecurity. Thus, a Microsoft compromise might threaten national security.



CISA's warning follows Microsoft's January breach disclosure to the government and key corporate clients. The attack highlights cyber enemies' continued danger, even if it is unknown whether SVR hackers gained important material from the impacted entities.



The U.S. Cyber Safety Review Board has criticized Microsoft's security breaches and poor security culture. President Biden's report examined Microsoft's breach response shortcomings and stressed the need for the firm to improve its security culture and technology ecosystem vulnerabilities.
A Houston hospital paused its liver and kidney transplant programs after a doctor reportedly falsified liver transplant candidate data.

In a Thursday disclosure, Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center said "inappropriate changes" to the information deactivated liver transplant candidates on the waiting list, prohibiting them from receiving organ donation offers, as reported by The Associated Press. However, the identity of the doctor was not revealed.

Errors in the donor acceptance criteria led to the suspension of the liver transplant program on April 3. An examination found errors in a donor organ matching database, but the hospital could not offer specifics.A review revealed that some patients were ineligible for transplantation because they were only accepted as donors with unreasonable age and weight requirements.

Despite liver transplant anomalies, liver and kidney transplant projects were suspended owing to shared leadership.

Deadly Outcome

Recent data suggests a disproportionate number of Memorial Hermann Hospital liver transplant patients have died, raising questions about patient outcomes. Last year, the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients reported 14 deaths or health declines on the hospital's waiting list. According to the study group, the death rate among transplant candidates at the institution exceeded expectations.

From January until last month, five patients died or became too ill for liver transplantation, while the hospital performed three transplants. The study is still underway, and it's unclear if waiting list changes affect liver transplant eligibility. The hospital focuses on more serious cases, according to a spokesperson.

A Houston doctor is accused of manipulating a national transplant database to make his patients ineligible for potentially life-saving donations, according to a report from @brianmrosenthal and @jbsgreenberg of @NYTimes

https://t.co/EdFfAX2nL1 pic.twitter.com/5wDVL6pomv  KHOU 11 News Houston (@KHOU) April 12, 2024

The United Network for Organ Sharing, the federal contractor coordinating organ transplants, has also begun an inquiry. According to the organization, patients on waiting lists do not receive organ offers during the program suspension, but they continue to collect waiting time, per CBS News. Patients might join several transplant waiting lists or move to another program, each with its own examination and admission criteria.

The hospital is contacting 38 patients on the liver program transplant list and 346 patients on the kidney transplant list to assist them and their families.

Consultant Surgeon Andrew Ready checks on his patients on the wards of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham on June 9, 2006, in Birmingham, England.

US Authorities Pledge to Resolve the Records Manipulation Case

Aside from Memorial Hermann, other facilities that offer organ transplant services are Houston Methodist, Baylor St. Luke's, and the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is investigating the accusations and pledged to protect patient safety and provide equal organ transplant services in the statement, according to The New York Times. It promised to enforce and comply with the safety and integrity of organ procurement and transplantation systems.

Moreover, the HHS acknowledged the gravity of the accusations and emphasized the agency's commitment to resolving the matter as quickly and thoroughly as possible.
Peru court sentences killers of Indigenous land defenders



Pucallpa, Peru, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



A Peruvian court on Thursday imposed near three-decade sentences on five men who were being retried for the murders of four Indigenous Amazon land defenders who had crossed swords with illegal loggers.

The four leaders of the Ashaninka people -- a group from a remote area along the border between Brazil and Peru -- were killed in front of members of their community on September 1, 2014.

Edwin Chota, Jorge Rios, Leoncio Quintisima and Francisco Pinedo were "murdered by presumed illegal loggers for defending their land," Peru's main indigenous organization, AIDESEP, said at the time.

At least one of them, well-known environmental activist Chota, had received threats for standing up to the intruders.

On Thursday, judge Karina Bedoya sentenced brothers Josimar and Segundo Atachi as well as Jose Carlos Estrada, Hugo Soria and Eurico Mapes to prison terms of 28 years and three months each as "coauthors of aggravated homicide."

Prosecutors had sought 35-year prison sentences.

The five were already found guilty of the crime last February, and were sentenced to 28 years in prison each.

But an appeals court threw out that ruling and ordered a new trial for "irregularities" in the testimony of a witness.

The new trial started last November.

Relatives of the victims attended Thursday's ruling at a court in the northeastern city of Pucallpa after participating in a community vigil.

"My heart has hurt enough, I will never forget," 47-year-old Lita Rojas, widow of Quintisima, told AFP at the ceremony in Pucallpa.

She had travelled for two days by river and road from her remote community of Alto Tamaya-Saweto near the Brazil border.

The murders had unleashed a wave of criticism against the Peruvian authorities, accused of not doing enough to protect Indigenous leaders and anti-deforestation activists.

According to the NGO Global Witness, at least 54 land and environmental defenders have been killed in Peru since 2012, of whom more than half belonged to Indigenous groups.

Families of the four hope the ruling will serve as a precedent to protect other Indigenous leaders and environmental advocates.

The four families have requested compensation of some $66,000 for each conviction.
Mayor orders 'mass evacuations' in Russia flood city



Moscow, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Flooding in the Russian city of Orenburg became "critical" Friday forcing "mass evacuations" as the Ural river level rises, the mayor said.

Fast-rising temperatures have melted snow and ice, and along with heavy rains have caused a number of major rivers that cross Russia and Kazakhstan to overflow.

"Sirens are sounding in the city. This is not an exercise," Orenburg Mayor Sergei Salmin said on Telegram.

"Mass evacuations are ongoing," he said. "The situation is critical, do not waste time," he said, calling on people in several city districts to evacuate.

The Ural river has flooded much of Orsk, and Orenburg -- the regional capital -- has been preparing for the peak of the rising water.

The city has a population of some 550,000 people.

"In the last 10 hours the level of water on the Ural river rose by 40 centimetres (15.7 inches)," Salmin said, describing the situation as "dangerous".

Authorities have said that around 2,500 Orenburg houses have been affected by the water and almost 5,000 allotments.

Images on Russian state media showed an alley leading up to a monument that marks the border between Europe and Asia flooded, with lamp-posts partly submerged. They also showed water reaching many houses.

In Western Siberia, the Ishim river has also risen to dangerous levels, according to authorities in the Tyumen region. Officials have predicted that the Ishim and Tobol rivers will only reach a peak level around April 23-25.

A regional official, Sergey Balykin, told the RIA Novosti state news agency that the peak in Orenburg would come only on Friday or Saturday.

Russia has evacuated around 10,000 people from rising water, mostly from the Orenburg region.

Several villages have also been evacuated in the Kurgan and Tomsk regions further east.

Authorities said however that conditions had improved in Orsk, which was badly hit after dam breached. Officials said water levels were falling again.

Kazakhstan has evacuated more than 96,000 people, with the city of Petropavlovsk also bracing for the worst of the flooding.

No direct link has been made between the floods and global warming. But experts say the higher temperatures across the planet will cause the heavy rains blamed for the flooding.
Scientists at Spain meeting sound alarm over ocean warming



Barcelona, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Scientists at a United Nations conference in Spain called Friday for more research into the sharp rise in ocean temperatures which they warn could have devastating consequences.

"The changes are happening so fast that we are not able to keep pace with the impact," the executive secretary of UNESCO's intergovernmental oceanographic commission, Vidar Helgesen, told AFP on the sidelines of the three-day "Ocean Decade" conference in Barcelona.

"It calls for a much stronger effort to observe and research in real time and a much closer collaboration between science and policy making," he said, adding that "tackling ocean warming is a burning issue".

The gathering, which ended Friday, brought together around 1,500 scientists and representatives of governments and environmental organisations to discuss protection of oceans.

The European Union's climate monitor Copernicus said Tuesday that average sea surface temperatures had set a new record high in March of just over 21 degrees Celsius.

Oceans cover 70 percent of the planet and have kept the Earth's surface liveable by absorbing 90 percent of the excess heat produced by carbon pollution from human activity since the dawn of the industrial age.



- Underestimated future warming? -



"The ocean has a much greater thermal capacity than the atmosphere; it absorbs much more heat, but it cannot absorb it ad infinitum," said Cristina Gonzalez Haro, a researcher at the Barcelona Institute of Marine Sciences.

Hotter oceans mean more moisture in the atmosphere, leading to increasingly erratic weather -- like fierce winds and powerful rain, and they threaten marine ecosystems which produce almost half of the oxygen we breathe.

One goal of the Barcelona gathering was to try to broaden our knowledge of the warming of the oceans and decipher its implications in an attempt to limit them.

Over 90 percent of the world's oceans experienced heat waves in 2023, which had a direct impact on climate and ecosystems around the world, even those located far from oceans, according to the UN's World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

"We're on a trajectory that has scientists wondering whether we've underestimated future global warming," Jean-Pierre Gattuso, a specialist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), said at the conference.

But scientists warned that the difficulties in implementing major environmental agreements aimed at limiting global warming, such as the 2015 Paris Agreement, do not leave room for optimism.

"Many of us are somewhat frustrated that, despite scientific demonstrations of climate change and its consequences, the implementation of the Paris Agreement is so slow, so difficult, so painful," said Gattuso.

Scientists, however, pointed to some positive signs, such as the adoption last year by UN member states, after 15 years of talks, of a historic treaty that aims to protect oceans and reverse damage done to fragile marine environments by pollution, overfishing and other human activities.

"Every tenth of a degree counts, every year gained counts, and it's never too late. We absolutely must not lose heart," Gattuso said.
Biden rule hikes fees for oil projects on public lands



New York, April 12 (AFP) Apr 12, 2024



Oil companies drilling on public lands must post larger bonds and pay higher royalties under a rule finalized Friday by the Biden administration.

The bonding requirements for development increased to $150,000 from $10,000, a level set in 1960 that no longer covers potential cleanup costs, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) said in a press release.

In another shift, the Department of the Interior lifted royalty rates for leases to 16.67 percent from the previous level of 12.5 percent.

The changes were described by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland as the most significant reform to the leasing program "in decades" but were criticized by petroleum interests.

They come as President Biden emphasizes the environment in his reelection campaign against former president Donald Trump, who has mocked climate change as an issue.

Friday's action finalizes the department's preliminary step taken in July 2023 that the Biden administration described as part of a "transition to a clean energy economy."

"Our public lands are owned by all Americans, and the Bureau of Land Management remains committed to managing them in a balanced, responsible way," said BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning.

"This rule will help protect critical wildlife habitat, cultural resources, and recreational values, and it will ensure a fair return for American taxpayers."

Petroleum industry officials are reviewing the rule "to ensure the Biden administration is upholding its responsibilities to the American taxpayers and promoting fair and consistent access to federal resources," said Holly Hopkins, vice president of upstream policy at the American Petroleum Institute.

API, which had raised objections to the proposal during a public comment period, released figures on the economic contribution of petroleum development on federal lands, citing some 170,000 jobs in five states.

"As energy demand continues to grow, oil and natural gas development on federal lands will be foundational for maintaining energy security, powering our economy and supporting state and local conservation efforts," Hopkins said.

"Overly burdensome land management regulations will put this critical energy supply at risk," Hopkins added.

The environmental group Evergreen Action characterized the change as a "long overdue" step to boost biodiversity and the climate.

"Let's be real: We need to get these oil companies off our public lands," said Evergreen Action's Mattea Mrkusic. "But for now, we're glad they won't get to stiff the public while they keep using public resources."

But Gladys Delgadillo, a climate campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity, called on the Biden administration to go further.

"Updating oil and gas rules for federal lands without setting a timeline for phaseout is climate denial, pure and simple," said Delgadillo, who called for a complete shutdown of drilling on federal lands.

"Public lands should be places for people to enjoy nature and wildlife to roam free, not hotspots for toxic pollution," Delgadillo said.
Fists fly in New Orleans courtroom, woman arrested after guilty plea in fiery deaths of children
Borals independent directors have caved in to Seven Groups hardball takeover bid for control of Australias largest concrete and cement maker, but not before wringing a handful of concessions from the billionaire Stokes family controlled company.

The about-face in the combative takeover follows Seven beefing up its already dominant Boral holding to 78.8 per cent and the independent directors recognising Seven was serious in its threat to stack Borals board with new directors, delist the company from the ASX and defer dividend payments.

Seven Group chief executive Ryan Stokes is also the chairman of Boral. Credit: Nick Moir

Ryan Stokes, Sevens chief executive, along with father Kerry owns about 57 per cent of Seven, a diversified Perth-based conglomerate. The billionaires also control industrial equipment firm Westrac, Coates Hire, a large chunk of ASX-listed oil and natural gas producer Beach Energy and a dominant interest in Seven West Media.

Boral, run by Vik Bansal, is midway through a major turnaround and is bullish about the prospects of its quarries, cement and concrete as multiple major infrastructure works get under way around the country and demand for housing remains sky-high.
All roads are leading Network Ten and its parent company, Paramount Global, towards new ownership and who the successful party might be just got a little clearer this week.

David Ellison, who owns film production studio Skydance Media (and is the son of Larry Ellison, founder of tech giant Oracle and the worlds fifth-richest person), is in an exclusive month-long negotiating period with Paramount to merge the two companies.

Skydance Media owner David Ellison is in an exclusive month-long negotiating period with Paramount to merge the two companies. Credit: Getty Images

If successful, Ellison will purchase Paramount chair Shari Redstones family holding company, National Amusements, Inc. for $US2 billion ($3.1 billion), becoming the companys chief executive and controlling shareholder. Paramount owns Network Ten, Channel 5 in the UK, US network CBS, Nickelodeon, MTV and the storied Hollywood studio Paramount Pictures.

The deal, while complex and far from completion, would mean Network Ten changing hands for the sixth time. In 2017, CBS bought the network, which later merged with Viacom before rebranding as Paramount Global.
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 moment the first trailer for Civil War dropped, people immediately began asking if it was such a great idea to release a film about the collapse of American democracy in an election year. With increasing political polarisation, and 43 per cent of Americans believing a real-life civil war is a distinct possibility, could this be the spark that sets it off? Perhaps surprisingly, Alex Garland, writer-director of the movie that stars Kirsten Dunst as an American war photographer covering a conflict in her own country, doesnt dismiss that concern out of hand. The incitement question is interesting, he says. Its just that to know the answer to it, you would have to be in possession of a lot of other information, and youd have to be able to project into the future and anticipate behaviour. Theres a lot of unknowns there. But if you look at the counter-position, which is silencing, there are fewer unknowns. There are significant dangers involved in either silencing other people or silencing yourself, which are quite predictable and quite well-documented. So I cant prove it with the positive, but in a way I can prove it with the negative. Garland (right) on the set of his film, in which heavily armed factions battle for control of the not-so-united States. Credit: Roadshow That might sound like hes making the case for the right to free speech, regardless of its impacts, and that might seem to put him on the side of the right. But thats not where he, or his film, actually sits. Civil War follows a small band of journalists, including Dunst, Wagner Moura and Cailee Spaeny, as they travel across the eastern seaboard of the US hoping to cover the front line of the conflict, and to score an interview with the president (Nick Offerman). Its a road movie through an America ripped apart by divisions the ballot box can no longer contain, where militias are engaged in open combat, the streets are no longer safe, and atrocities are commonplace.

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If there are sides here, its difficult to know which one we should be barracking for. But not impossible, insists Garland. There is a side it comes down against, and theres a side it comes down for, by implication, he says. The side it comes down against is fascists. Its just not taking sides in the terms some people might want it to take, which would be, Im left-wing, I wanted to attack the right or Im right-wing, I wanted to attack the left. Its deliberately taking that out. Its an old-fashioned way of thinking  a centrist way of thinking, actually  that says governments are there, systems of checks and balances are there, to guard against fascism. Thats why they exist. Garlands story focuses on the efforts of four journalists to capture the truth of the conflict. Wagner Moura (front right) plays journalist Joel, and Stephen McKinley Henderson is the veteran New York Times writer Sammy. Credit: Roadshow Civil War is a very modern edge-of-the-seat immersion in the hell, and the fog, of war. But it is old-fashioned in another way: the journalists (Kirsten Dunst and Cailee Spaeny are the photographers, Wagner Moura and Stephen McKinley Henderson the writers) are its heroes. The film brilliantly captures the adrenaline addiction, and the trauma, that can grip conflict journalists. But that in no way negates the absolutely critical role they play in keeping us informed  and safe from tyranny. Garland grew up around journalists. His father was a political cartoonist for The Daily Telegraph, Spectator and New Statesman (and the co-creator, with Barry Humphries, of the Barry McKenzie comic strip in Private Eye in the 1960s).

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Today, he concedes, journalism is a much-maligned profession. And I find that surreal. Its like maligning doctors. You just try living in a society where journalists have been erased, where they are no longer holding people to account, and see where it gets you. And you could say we are starting to see what that is like anyway. Sometimes, he says, he likes to play a little thought experiment in which he imagines a modern-day Watergate, complete with Woodward and Bernstein exposing deep corruption at the highest levels. Would it lead to the downfall of that government? At the moment, not necessarily. Garland burst onto the scene as the 26-year-old author of runaway bestseller The Beach back in 1996 and has since enjoyed considerable success as a screenwriter (28 Days Later, Never Let Me Go) and writer-director (Ex-Machina, Annihilation, Men, the TV series Devs). If theres a strand that unites this body of work, he says, it is an obsession with fascistic power structures and personalities. Journalism is a much-maligned profession. And I find that surreal. Its like maligning doctors. Alex Garland Even The Beach is sort of about that, really, the different spaces fascist thinking can come from. I think thats probably because I was born in 1970, and the Second World War, and the things surrounding it, simply did not feel distant. These days, he says, fascism seems to be a more abstract concept to people, particularly in the Western democracies. And that is a danger.

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When they see it at all, they see it as something either historically or geographically distant. And that allows for fascism creeping into their own behaviour, even though they would not ever consider themselves to be fascists. Its an evolutionary process that can be quieter and more insidious than people realise. Do you mean to suggest that theres an innate drift towards fascism, and that without the safeguards of strong public institutions, courts, and media, we risk an inexorable slide into it? Yes, he says. It is avoided by rational, compassionate thinking, and its avoided by systems. It is not arbitrary that we have those systems; those systems were created thoughtfully, primarily as a protection against extremism. In truth, Civil War isnt intended as an incitement, but as a warning. Nick Offerman plays the president. Credit: Roadshow The problem presented in the film is that a populist politics, a divided country, journalists and the fourth estate not having the power and the traction they need to hold people to account, has led to an authoritarian in power, he says. If you erode the media in a certain kind of way, or you break apart some of the systems of government, the thing you are guarding against might actually occur. We act as if were not guarding against something real, but I think we are. But its not just the US we should be concerned about, he says, pointing to the impunity with which Boris Johnson lied his way through his prime ministership in Britain. Its all the other places, too, where so-called strong leaders have emerged and sought to weaken the institutions that protect civil society. And its also the impact a weakened, and morally diminished, America has on the rest of the world.

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What does that allow other countries to do  maybe other countries that are expansionist and violent and authoritarian? What has been permitted by that chaos? Its an interrelated problem, which is explicitly not localised to America, either in its cause or in its effect. Its a grim prognosis. Do you think theres any way back? Absolutely, of course, he says. If you can come back from World War Two and that scale of expansionist, psychopathic behaviour and genocide, then yeah, of course theres a way back. But its a way back that has to be taken. Humans are often very good at correctly anticipating a problem, but much less good at acting on it. They see the tsunami coming, and they all stand around pointing at it, but do they actually do anything, build defences, run away, whatever it happens to be? I get the sense that the great big wave is on its way, and the water is sucking out down the shore at a rather alarming rate, he says. Thats where we are right now. There might be a tsunami, and so we should react to that. Civil War is in cinemas now. Contact the author at kquinn@theage.com.au, follow him on Facebook at karlquinnjournalist and on Twitter @karlkwin, and read more of his work here.

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Capp said she missed the wheel. The lights and the light show, I absolutely loved it. I thought it was just a lovely part of our skyline. But she said the council, the state government and other business owners in Docklands were open to good ideas on what should be on the privately-owned land instead. A family rides the wheel in 2008, when it opened under the name the Southern Star. Credit: Paul Rovere A well-placed property industry source, who could not speak publicly due to commercial sensitives, confirmed options for salvaging the wheel parts was being actively considered, but liquidators who have been in charge of the business since 2021 did not directly answer whether the wheel was being sold in parts. Loading We are currently working with a party in relation to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and they have commenced a due diligence process to assess the operational issues in respect of the wheel, said Andrew Hewitt, partner and head of financial advisory at Grant Thornton.

Upon completion of this, they will determine whether they wish to progress to a purchase of the assets. The wheel was for sale on the international market. Singapore-based portable ride broker JNELC listed it online as a unique offer between 2021 and earlier this year without success. JNELC managing director Jeroen Nijpels would not comment specifically on the wheel due a confidentiality agreement, but said there was a reasonable market for pre-owned equipment. It has to be the right proposition for the right buyer. First of all, it depends on the costs of acquisition, the costs of dismantling, transportation and reinstalling the ride, and the costs of any refurbishment if so required, he said.

Secondly, it then depends on having the right buyer in your network, for whom the opportunity comes at the right time. The wheels 21 pods were manufactured by Sanoyas Rides Corporation (SRC, formally known as SHM) in Osaka, Japan. The supporting steel columns were manufactured in Tasmania and the wheel structure was made in the Dandenongs, according to historical listings. The skyline view in 2008. Credit: Paul Rovere Daniel Hibberd, president of the Docklands Chamber of Commerce, said he was limited in what he could say about the wheels future. Maybe Sally [Capp] knows more than me ... I dont think I can say any more in detail, but Ive heard recently that theres still a glimmer of hope, he said.

Paul Guerra, chief executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the wheel either needs to spin or it needs to move. Our view is the wheel is best suited probably somewhere opposite Crown ... where you can see up and down the Yarra and see back into the city, rather than [Docklands], he said. But I suspect there are some contractual implications and some legal implications which will make it difficult to move the wheel. The $100 million Observation Wheel originally opened in 2008  two years late  under the name Southern Star, but was forced to shut just 40 days later because of cracks caused by problems with the design. It was out of operation for almost five years between 2009 and 2013 as it was taken down and almost fully rebuilt.

Its had a colourful history: In 2009, Sunday Age photographer Ken Irwin captured one couple having a sexy romp in one of the wheels capsules when it was the Southern Star. In 2018, the wheel suddenly halted with 95 people on board, many of whom were forced to use emergency urinals in the pods. The construction of the Observation Wheel was different to The London Eye, which used cables to give the structure its strength. Melbournes Observation Wheel is slightly smaller, at 120 metres, has no cables and relies on an internal skeleton. MB Star Properties Pty Ltd announced the immediate closure of the wheel in September 2021 as it revealed it was going into liquidation. The company cited effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and pre-existing difficulties amid increased high-rise development and changes in Docklands. Trying to estimate the worth of the wheels individual pieces, or as scrap metal, is difficult. The Age called several metal recyclers and demolition firms for an estimation.

A sales representative from a Melbourne-based metal recycler who was not authorised to speak on behalf of the company said the going rate for mild steel was $350 per tonne  putting an estimated price for the 1250 tonnes of steel in the wheel at $437,500. Loading If they processed the material, cut it all up and delivered to the depot, we would be rebating at $350 per tonne for a mild steel price, he said. We have never had a ferris wheel and wouldnt be able to transport in the shape it is. As you can imagine, VicRoads wouldnt like the sight of that coming over the West Gate [Bridge]. It would need to go on semis. A spokeswoman for a separate Melbourne-based demolition firm said the value of the steel would likely outweigh the costs of taking it down.
The Ages Docklands series explores what has gone wrong with Melbournes most maligned suburb and what could be done to fix it. There are several reasons why Docklands is so windy. One element is the short-term commercial thinking, which plagued the development of the suburb years ago. Dr Seifu Bekele, a wind engineer, says wind effects were not considered when Docklands was built. Credit: Simon Schluter Dr Seifu Bekele, the director of Global Wind Technology Services, says this meant not enough consideration was given to the implications of wind in the area. This resulted in the construction of apartments and giant buildings towering over open space, causing a wind-tunnel effect as pedestrians passed through. You feel the wind immediately in the Docklands, but not inside the city, because the wind is interrupted and sheltered by all the other buildings around, says Bekele, who has more than two decades of experience in wind engineering.

Holmes agrees. He says the trouble with Docklands is there was never a clear plan for the area on how to manage and mitigate wind. To his knowledge, no in-depth wind testing has ever been conducted in the suburb to guide future planning. They should have set out guidelines for the area and mapped out where the tall buildings should go 30 years ago, he says. Unless we knock down all the buildings and start again, its a bit too late now. Pedestrians often feel the brunt of strong winds in Docklands. Credit: Penny Stephens It is a mistake he does not want to see repeated in future developments in Docklands or nearby Fishermans Bend. In other words, plan the tall building layout for future developments, so you dont have these sorts of problems, he says.

Despite the Bureau of Meteorology headquarters being based in Docklands, Holmes said there is no anemometer, a device that measures wind speed and direction, in the suburb. People often ask how strong the wind is in the Docklands, and the truth is we really dont know the answer. Theres been no device there to ever measure it, he says. The other culprit is geography. Bekele says the suburbs proximity to water means whatever development occurred there, it was always going to be pummelled by strong winds. Its a waterfront, its going to be windy, he says.

So, could the wind-channel effect ever be fixed in Docklands? Bekele holds out hope it could. The first step would be conducting studies using sensors to analyse where the wind channelling is coming from. Then once you do that, you can start introducing more trees or plantation along the streets identified in the tests to shelter them from the wind, he says. Globally, he said wind-screening devices, such as cyclone-resistant facades, have been used successfully in places like Hong Kong, to withstand heavy rainfall and storm-force winds. In Hong Kong, for example, buildings are often constructed with typhoon-resistant materials and stringent building codes are enforced for every development to ensure wind and other weather patterns are front-of-mind.

He says similar building codes and guidelines should be developed for Docklands. City of Melbourne planning permits in the Docklands precinct must now be assessed against design and development overlays, which requires a wind assessment impact report by a qualified wind engineer. RMIT planning researcher Hugh Stanford is also optimistic Docklands can shake its reputation as a sterile precinct of concrete and wind tunnels. Stanford, whose research examines conservation science in urban areas, says Docklands posed an ideal opportunity to bring more nature into the city, something he adds could ease winds, and also have physical and mental health benefits.

You cant prevent wind coming into the city, but you can put things in the way to break up the wind as much as possible, he says. At the same time, you can soften those hard landscapes and the uninviting sterile environments that we might associate with Docklands. Loading Stanford says this could involve strategically planting trees and diverse vegetation, as well as encouraging planners and landscape architects to think creatively about future developments. Anyone looking around Docklands would say there are some trees and then theres cement, and then is this large, open space between a canopy and the ground, he says. What we really need is structural diversity from the pavement to the trees, what we call mid-story vegetation. This helps break up wind and reduce the heat on a really hot day as well.

A City of Melbourne spokeswoman said the council had planted more than 3500 trees in Docklands in the past decade, despite limitations due to underground infrastructure and the fact that much of the public space was owned by other levels of government. Within our planning authority, we assess wind impacts of all new developments on a case-by-case basis to ensure the best outcomes for our community, she said. She said the council had also increased greening and infrastructure projects through its urban forest fund grants. This includes the Victoria Point Podium Greening project outside Marvel Stadium. Once complete, it will have 2850 square metres of green cover and new trees planted for shading and windbreaks. Comment was sought from the Department of Planning.
Modern-day abolitionist Grace Forrest has warned that the race to decarbonise the worlds economy risks repeating the mistakes of the colonial era by building industries on forced and child labour.

Forrest, who on Thursday evening became the first Australian woman to win the Roosevelt Foundations Four Freedoms award for her anti-slavery advocacy, says the green economy is sleepwalking towards another century of exploitation .

Grace Forrest, founder of campaign group Walk Free, in London for the release of the Global Slavery Index 2023. Credit: Grainne Quinlan

The work of her human rights organisation, Walk Free, has exposed modern slavery, forced and child labour throughout the renewable energy supply chain, with evidence of state-imposed forced labour of Uyghurs and other Turkic and Muslim majority groups in China in the making and supply of solar panels and other renewable technologies.

It has also shone a light on the slave-like conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where cobalt is mined by workers for its use in rechargeable batteries for laptop computers and mobile phones.
Timothy Mellon, the largest single donor to Kennedys biggest super PAC, is also the largest backer of MAGA Inc. The reclusive billionaire from one of Americas wealthiest families, has over the past year given the Kennedy super PAC $US20 million and the Trump super PAC $US15 million, as of the most recent disclosures that were filed in March. Another prominent Kennedy backer is Patrick Byrne, the former CEO of Overstock.com who worked with Trump on his effort to overturn the 2020 election. Doctor and former Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein wants to have another go at the White House, this time as an independent. Credit: AP Trump himself is intensely interested in the third-party candidates, according to aides. He is eager to know what their effect is expected to be on the race and how they are polling, although his engagement beyond asking questions of those around him is unclear. Trump has been worried about the Libertarian Party pulling conservative voters away from him in November. But Richard Grenell, who is the former acting director of national intelligence, has been using his connections with Libertarian activists and donors to try to persuade them to attack Biden more than Trump, according to people familiar with his efforts. Other Trump supporters are trying to help third-party and independent candidates with the expensive and arduous process of gathering the signatures needed to get on state ballots. Scott Presler, the conservative activist whom Lara Trump said she wanted as an early hire at the Republican National Committee, publicly reached out on social media to Stein and Cornel West, a left-wing academic who is running for president as an independent, to offer his help in collecting signatures to get them on the ballot.

Presler could not be reached for comment. The moves by Trump allies come as the Democratic Party has mobilised a team of lawyers to scrutinise outsider candidates, including looking into whether theyve followed the rules to get on state ballots. US academic Cornel West, now a presidential candidate, appears on the ABCs Q&A in 2018. Credit: ABC For decades, third-party candidacies have loomed large in US presidential elections. The best known in modern history is Ross Perot, whose run as a billionaire populist independent in 1992 garnered 19 per cent of the vote and helped Bill Clinton win with only 43 per cent of the popular vote. Ralph Nader, a Green Party candidate, siphoned votes away from vice president Al Gore in the nail-biter 2000 presidential race against George W. Bush. And in 2016, Stein, as the Green Party candidate, gave a meaningful  and arguably election-deciding  boost to Trump by drawing progressive voters away from former secretary of state Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. That year, billionaire businessperson and Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus, a supporter of Trump, helped fund efforts to bolster Stein.

Loading Polling shows that third-party candidates could play an especially large role in 2024. Most Americans are unhappy with the choice between Trump and Biden. Voters are increasingly disillusioned with the two major parties, and trust in American institutions has eroded over the past 30 years. Those trends provide an opening for candidates who style themselves as anti-establishment outsiders willing to blow up the system. Trump took advantage of similar conditions in 2016. In a Quinnipiac University poll in late March, Biden and Trump both received less than 40 per cent of the vote in a hypothetical five-way race, with Kennedy getting 13 per cent, Stein receiving 4 per cent and West capturing 3 per cent. In the multicandidate race, Trump led by a single percentage point; Biden led Trump by 3 percentage points in a hypothetical head-to-head race. The path to victory here is clearly maximising the reach of these left-wing alternatives, said Steve Bannon, the former White House chief strategist who also served as Trumps campaign chair in 2016.

No Republican knows that oil production under Biden is higher than ever. But Jill Steins people do, Bannon added. Stein is furious about the oil drilling. The college kids are furious about it. The more exposure these guys get, the better it is for us. Brian Hughes, a spokesperson for Trump, described Kennedy as a leftist and liberal with a history of supporting an extreme environmental agenda. He said more broadly of the Democratic push to challenge outsider candidates, While Joe Biden and his allies claim to defend democracy, they are using financial and legal resources to prevent candidates access to the ballot. President Trump believes any candidate who qualifies for the ballot should be allowed to make their case to Americas voters, he added. For months, the Trump team has been privately polling various iterations of third-party tickets in battleground states. It has concluded that candidates floated for the Green Party and No Labels, which recently abandoned its effort to field a presidential candidate, pulled substantially more votes from Biden than from Trump. Loading

A person briefed on other polling by Trump allies said that while it varied by state, Kennedy also pulls more votes from Biden than from Trump. The person cited as an example the Trump teams recent private polling of voters in Arizona. Trump loses Hispanic voters by a close margin in a head-to-head contest against Biden there, but he wins Hispanic voters on the full ballot in Arizona  an indication that third-party candidates draw more heavily from Bidens core constituencies than from Trumps. Still, Kennedy is seen as more of a potential threat to Trump. He has spent the past few years appearing on conservative news media programs and talking about issues like his fierce opposition to the COVID-19 vaccine. Advisers to Trump say that many Republican voters dont know anything about Kennedys liberal views on gun control and the environment, and the Trump team hopes to bring back some of those voters after framing Kennedy as a liberal Democrat. Allies of Trump and Biden are in a tug of war to define Kennedy, who has far more support than any other third-party candidate. Democratic lawyers and operatives, many of whom have privately said that neither Gore nor Hillary Clinton had teams that took third-party candidates seriously enough, are fighting hard to keep Kennedy off the ballot. The Democratic National Committee hired Lis Smith, a veteran communications operative, and tasked her with branding Kennedy as a pro-Trump spoiler candidate. Kennedys campaign and the super PACs backing him have paid an array of lawyers and consultants to secure ballot access. One of the consultants, Rita Palma, was captured in a video detailing a strategy to encourage New York voters to support Kennedy: The Kennedy voter and the Trump voter, our mutual enemy is Biden. Palma outlined a hypothetical scenario in which Kennedy would win enough electoral votes to prevent either Trump or Biden from winning 270 electoral votes, pushing the decision to Congress in what is known as a contingent election.

On her account on the social platform X, Palma has expressed support over the years for both Kennedy and Trump. In posts first reported by CNN on Tuesday, she had endorsed Trumps false claims that the 2020 election was stolen and described Sidney Powell, who has pleaded guilty to six misdemeanour counts related to Trumps efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia, as my person of the decade. Loading Stefanie Spear, a spokesperson for the Kennedy campaign, described Palma as a ballot-access consultant for upcoming signature collection efforts in New York. Of Palmas remarks about the hypothetical scenario, Spear said Palmas statements in no way reflect the strategy of the Kennedy campaign. Spear did not respond to requests for comment about the Trump allies efforts to elevate Kennedy, or to inquiries about Palmas support for Trumps claims about the 2020 election. Many conservative news media personalities and influencers recently turned against Kennedy after he decided to run as an independent instead of as a Democrat and it became apparent that he could pull votes from Trump.

Still, one complication with attacking Kennedy is that Trump has made clear that he likes him. When The New York Post reported last month that Kennedy was accusing Nevadas secretary of state, a Democrat, of corruptly denying his signature petitions, the Trump team discussed legal intervention, although no action appears to have been taken. Loading Trump put out a statement on Truth Social, his social media platform, that called Kennedy a radical-left Democrat, but he has mostly laid off him otherwise. Trump has called Kennedy a very smart person and has even privately floated him as a potential running mate, though his advisers view that prospect as extremely unlikely. An outside group aligned with Trump asked a question about a Trump-Kennedy ticket in a poll several weeks ago, according to a person with knowledge of the survey. The results were not particularly striking. Trump had told an ally that he believed Kennedy could help him with voters who were upset with him for his support of the COVID-19 vaccine.
COME TO INDIA





COME to India, if you want to see future. ... We have the most beautiful view. I think, of this ballroom, of the passion, of the belief, of the purpose, of the peace that you live in ..., said Mr. Eric Garcetti, United States Ambassador to India, at a dialogue in New Delhi. He was only sharing with the audience -- and the world -- what many have been feeling about India -- as a land of promise of good future. So, come to India if you want to see what future has to offer. The picture, of course, was different ten years ago. In these intervening years, India has transformed itself from a land of policy paralysis to a land of promise. And the world has not missed seeing, sensing that. Mr. Eric Garcetti, as a diplomat in temporary stay in the country, found himself obliged to state his emotion in clear words. For the average Indians, this is a matter of great pride and pleasure. They are actually experiencing what the world has begun sensing in the past some time. They are seeing the progress their country has made and they are enjoying the fruits of the growth on all fronts. They also realise that even for a transaction of just a few rupees, all they have do is to make the online payment within seconds. And they travel on world-class roads that go around the world several times over when joined in a line. For a country that was called backward until just a few years ago, this comprehensive progress should be termed as phenomenal. They realise, as does the world, that future is in India, or in other words, India is future. Mr. Garcettis statement was not political in nature.

It was obvious that he was stating what he felt, about India of today (naturally against the background of what knew of India a few years ago). No matter some internal challenges India is confronted with, there is hope in the atmosphere. There is a promise that things will get sorted out properly very soon. No matter the so-called political discord between the ruling and the opposition camps, everybody realises that in a democracy, such difference is never an anathema. For, when the future is promising to be good and bright, then difference of opinion is only a stage that has to be gotten over with. True, there may be powers elsewhere in the world wanting to take an undue advantage of political discord in India. But the larger Indian society is mature enough to handle such elements with ease. It knows that such challenges do not disturb the flow of life in the country. When smoothness of this flow is assured, future holds a bigger promise for the country -- which was what Mr. Eric Garcetti meant to state in his address. Seen from this angle, India does emerge as a land of promise of a model the entire world may want to follow some day.

This gives a smooth, sweet and good feeling to every Indian person -- in India and elsewhere in the world. True, there is still a long way to go to realise fully the vision the country has set for itself for the hundredth year of its Independence in 2047. On every possible parameter the country has to make a lot of organised progress. Yet, the promise it has been able to create for itself is no mean in its greatness and gravitas. Of course, progress on the promised path will get smoother and faster only when India gets rid of corruption on all fronts -- including intellectual and spiritual. Of course, India will travel faster to promised state of progress only when it is able to evolve a truly shared vision of its own image of the future. All these factors are going to take a lot of time and energy. Yet, the pace of progress now India is experiencing has become a matter of envy of the world. Therefore, time it is for India to feel happy about the way it is progressing currently -- as stated so powerfully by the American Ambassador.
15 Maoists give up arms in Jharkhand: Police





RANCHI :

IN A major success for security forces ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, 15 Maoists, including a minor and two women, belonging to the squad of wanted red rebel Misir Besra laid down their arms in Jharkhands West Singhbhum district on Thursday, police said. The Naxals were operating in Saranda, Asias densest Sal forest, in Kolhan region in southern Jharkhand where security forces have mounted a major operation against the red rebels. Fifteen Maoists have surrendered on Thursday. They were operating in Saranda and were squad members of CPI (Maoist) politburo member Misir Besra, who carries a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head, a senior police officer said.West Singhbhum is considered to be one of the worst left-wing extremist-affected districts in the country.

It had witnessed 46 Maoist-related incidents, resulting in 22 deaths last year. It is a big achievement and will contribute significantly to conducting free and fair elections in Singhbhum constituency without an element of fear, West Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Kuldeep Chaudhary told PTI. NIA ARRESTS ARMED CADRE OF NAXAL OUTFIT PLFI IN JHARKHAND, ASSAM: THE National Investigation Agency has arrested an armed cadre of the Naxal group Peoples Liberation Front of India, following raids in Jharkhand and Assam, an official statement issued on Thursday said. The raids and searches were conducted on Wednesday by the NIA teams, with the help of local police, at two locations each in Jharkhand and Assam, it said.

The crackdown led to the arrest of one Binod Munda alias Sukkhwa from the Khunti district of Jharkhand, according to the statement issued by the NIA. The accused is an armed cadre of the PLFI, a splinter Naxal group, and wanted in four PLFI cases in Jharkhand. He has been arrested in a case relating to revival attempts by the PLFI, the probe agency said. As part of the revival activities, PLFI members and cadres were involved in generating funds through extortion from various coal traders, transporters, railway contractors, and others.
Cant threaten me, send me back as it is not your ancestors estate: Kangana to HP Minister





SHIMLA,

ACTOR Kangana Ranaut, the BJP candidate from Mandi seat in Himachal Pradesh, on Thursday launched a blistering attack on minister Vikramaditya Singh, saying he cannot threaten her and send her back as it is not his ancestors estate. Son of former Chief Minister late Virbhadra Singh and state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, Himachal Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh is the frontrunner as the Congress nominee from the Mandi Lok Sabha seat. Addressing a rally in Mandi Assembly constituency falling under Mandi Parliament seat, Kangana said, Yeh tumhare baap-dada ki riyasat nahin hai, ke tum mujhe dara, dhamka ke vapis bhej doge (This is not the estate of your father or grandfather that you will threaten me and send me back). This is the new Bharat of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where a small, poor boy who used to sell tea is the biggest hero and pradhan sevak of the people, she added.

Vikramaditya Singh had on Monday said Kangana is a queen of controversies and questions will be raised on her statements given from time to time. Referring to Kanganas reported comments over beef-eating, Vikramaditya Singh had said, I pray to Lord Ram to give her wisdom and hope she goes back pure from Dev Bhoomi Himachal to Bollywood because she will not win the elections as she knows nothing about people of Himachal. Vikramaditya Singh is the scion of the erstwhile Bhushar estate, now known as Rampur, which is one of the 17 Assembly segments falling under the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency. Indirectly dubbing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Vikramaditya Singh as Pappu, Kangana said there is one Bada Pappu in Delhi and the Chhota Pappu in Himachal says she eats beef. She asked why he is not showing the evidence of her consuming beef. I follow ayurvedic and yogic lifestyle, she asserted. Terming Vikramaditya Singh as ek number ka jhootha (liar No. 1) and paltubaaz (one who repeatedly changes stance), she wondered what can be expected from him when Bada Pappu talks about destroying the nari Shakti (women power).

I have made my name in the film industry without the help of my father and mother... I want to join politics and serve the people, she said, and asserted that politics is an expression of service and anyone from a king to a beggar is entitled to that expression. The whole country is worshipping the daughters during the ongoing Navratras, but still there is no change in the Congress leaders anti-women thought, she said, and challenged Vikramaditya Singh to successfully do even one scene from her film. If he can do even one scene of my film successfully, I will leave politics and the country, she said, and added that the actors do not choose art but art chooses them. Referring to her experience in Bollywood, Kangana said, These Raja betas had problem with me in the film industry. The girls were used and when I raised my voice, these parivarvadi and vanshvadi (dynasty and family-centric) Pappus, who stay under the influence of liquor and drugs, threatened me and even sent notice to me threatening to put me behind bars but could not harm me. Instead I removed the heroes from my films with the support of the people of the country, she said.

Subsequently, another Pappu Udhay Thackrey threatened her and damaged her house, she said. But today, he is seeing that so many people like him tried to bully me but still I am standing on this platform with the support of the people, she said. I promise to come back here and if you make me victorious, I will set an example for the society where the daughters will compete with sons in all spheres of life, she added. She asked where are the jobs promised by the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, and told the people not to fall prey to their false promises and return to the world where corruption and poverty ruled the nation. Kangana said Manali is her home and she wants to live a peaceful life in a small village. I have built a house here, said Kangana, who also touched the feet of an elderly couple during her rally in Manali. Earlier, she was welcomed with slogans of Jai Shri Ram.
ChhattisgarhLiquor scam.. SEOIACB mounts fresh raids at 21 locations





Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

IN a major crackdown, the State Economic Offences Investigation and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SEOIACB) conducted raids at the premises of individuals connected to the liquor business in Raipur, Bhilai, Rajnandgaon and Bilaspur. The SEOIACB team simultaneously targeted the residences of businessmen, including Vijay Bhatia, a resident of Nehru Nagar (East) in Bhilai, Trilok Singh Dhillon also a resident of Nehru Nagar and Lakshmi Narayan Bansal alias Pappu Bansal, in New Khursipar, Bhilai. Trilok Singh Dhillon alias Pappu and Bhatias homes were subjected to a thorough investigation by the SEOIACB team of around a dozen officers. However, Bansals residence was found to be locked, prompting the team to seal the house and issue a notice before leaving stating that the SEOIACB had sealed the house. Bhatia gained notoriety due to his involvement in a CD scandal. Additionally, the team conducted raids at the residence of Atul Sinha, a Raipur resident and FL10 A Liquor Licensee.

In a related development, SEOIACB arrested former Special Secretary of the Excise Department, A P Tripathi, from Bihar, intensifying their probe into the Liquor scam. An FIR has been filed against Tripathi. Earlier, the SEOIACB agencies had arrested Arvind Singh and Anwar Dhebar. On Thursday, SEOIACB raided 21 locations associated with the liquor scam accused across Raipur, Bhilai, Rajnandgaon and Bilaspur. The operations included searches in Devendra Nagar, Sadar Bazaar, and Pandari in Raipur. Over 30 officers from across the State participated in coordinated raid, resulting in the detention of those whose names have figured in scam for questioning. It may mentioned that after the Supreme Court quashed the money laundering investigation by the Enforcement Directorate in the Rs 2200 crore Liquor Scam, the Raipur Zonal office of the federal agency filed a fresh Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in the liquor scam.

The state investigation agency, SEOIACB, has intensified its investigation into the alleged Rs 2200 crore liquor scam by conducting simultaneous raids and arresting one of the main suspects A P Tripathi. Tripathi was found at a relatives residence in Gopalganj, Bihar, and was brought to Raipur after his arrest. Tripathi, a former Telecom Service officer, had been on deputation to Chhattisgarh, where he held various roles, including Special Secretary in the Excise Department. The liquor scam reportedly occurred during his tenure. SEOIACB has already questioned those in jail related to the case and arrested Arvind Singh and Anwar Dhebar, the brother of Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar, in connection with the scam. Tripathis arrest marks the third arrest made by SEOIACB in this investigation. Anwar Dhebar and Arvind Singh remain in SEOIACB custody until April 12. Following the end of their custody period, it is likely that they will be presented in Raipurs Special Court for an extension of their remand in light of Tripathis arrest and the ongoing investigation.
Chinas Mischief In Arunachal





By Lt General M K Das

ON MARCH 30, 2024, China continued its absurd tactics of renaming 30 county administrative centres, villages, townships, mountain peaks and rivers/lakes in Arunachal Pradesh in Tibetan or Chinese characters. China refers to Arunachal Pradesh as Southern Tibet and calls it Zangan. China has done such renaming exercise in Arunachal Pradesh earlier too, that is in the years 2017, 2021 and 2023. China also issues maps of Arunachal Pradesh with the new names so as to bolster its claim over the state. Located in the Indias North East, Arunachal Pradesh is the largest State in terms of area of the seven sisters which make the North East Region (NER) but has the least population density in the country. Earlier it formed part of the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) and it became a full-fledged State in February 1987. It borders Bhutan in the west, Myanmar in the east and States of Assam and Nagaland to its south. The strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh lies in the fact that it shares 1129 kms of boundary with Chinas Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) demarcated by the McMahon Line during British India in 1914 and now disputed by China. Therefore, this boundary is called Line of Actual Control (LAC). The entire LAC with China is 3488 km long, stretching from Aksai Chin in the West to Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. It may be noted that China still controls 15,500 sq km of Indian territory in Aksai Chin of Ladakh, which it captured after 1962 war.

China continues to irritate India on its claims over Arunachal Pradesh. Right after granting asylum to the Dalai Lama in 1959, followed by 1962 war and Indias struggle with economy coupled with not-so-great diplomacy led to some altercation with China from time to time. The 1967 stand-off between two armies at Nathu La in Sikkim was followed by Sumdurong Chu stand-off in Arunachal Pradesh in 1987. It was followed by 72-day stand-off at Doka La on India-China-Bhutan trijunction in 2017. The relations between India and China have followed a different trajectory after the violent Galwan clash of June 15-16, 2020 in Eastern Ladakh and still uneasy peace prevails in the region after massive build-up of troops and creation of infrastructure on both sides. So, what is the real interest of China in Arunachal? One reason is the importance of Tawang monastery which is the second largest monastery of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. The second is its bigger interest in the disputed Aksai Chin from where it is building a highway, close to the LAC to connect Xinjiang to Tibet which would facilitate troops and logistics build-up. One factor which is generally not mentioned is huge water and mineral resources including hydrocarbons available in plenty in Arunachal Pradesh.

Ultimately the State is a great bargaining chip for China while discussing the border dispute with India. But what about Indias historical linkage with the region? It is here that poor chronicling of Indian history hurts our rightful claims. It is believed that Arunachal finds mention in the Mahabharat and the Kalika Puran. During the British rule, it was part of Assam, the mother State of Indias North East. After Independence, it was called NEFA and directly ruled by the MEA till it became a Union Territory in 1972, followed by grant of Statehood in 1987. The State of Arunachal has close historical and cultural linkage with Assam and Nagaland. On the contrary, the LAC is located in the rugged and inhospitable terrain and there is not much connectivity with the TAR. I feel that the young students, particularly from Arunachal must research the history with right earnest to document our ancient linkage with the State and the region. The regular irritants from China are stapled visas to the residents of Arunachal and regularly raising the bogey of any VIP visit including the inauguration of Sela tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 9, 2024. Now that Lok Sabha elections are round the corner, China once again will object to any legitimate democratic activity in the State. With due regard, one did not find much support to Indian cause from the revered Dalai Lama as far as the recent controversy is concerned.

The latest input is about Chinas plan to develop 175 more villages opposite the LAC in Arunachal Pradesh. These settlements would further enhance military preparedness of China by acting as border security villages. But most discomforting is the news from Microsoft that China plans to meddle in the forthcoming elections in India by swaying public opinion through false narratives created by artificial intelligence. It would be interesting how the government copes up with the latest challenge. India has responded to the cartographic and other adversarial activities of China much better. The development of infrastructure and connectivity in the region is much better. A large number of projects are ongoing to further improve the border villages through the pet scheme called First Village.

Mana in Uttarakhand was officially designated as the first village of the country by the Prime Minister in October 2022 and he stated that every border village should be the first village and not the last village of the country. Militarily, India is much stronger in terms of permanent deployment of troops but we have to match up with Chinas huge arsenal quickly. As competing economies and rivals in the region, India and China would inevitably clash with each other. The growing rise of India as a likely superpower by 2047 will face Chinas challenge in one way or another. In the physical and kinetic domain, not much may happen in the immediate future but in other unseen spheres, we are likely to witness much more intervention from China. Our collective might as a nation would be needed to thwart the notorious designs of China. (The author is retired Lt General, PVSM, SM**,VSM)
CM, PWD Minister, others seek blessings of Maa Durga at famous Khermai temple





Staff Reporter

Before heading to Mandla from Jabalpur, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav along with State PWD Minister Rakesh Singh and other leaders visited famous Khermai Mata temple in the city to seek blessings of Maa Durga, on Thursday. A large number of party workers were also present on the occasion. During Navratri, Chief Minister Yadav performed puja and rituals to seek the well-being of the state. Not only that, he also purchased puja samagri (materials use to worship the Goddess) from shops located near the Khermai temple. The CM also inquired about the well-being of shopkeepers. After visiting Khermai Mata temple, the Chief Minister departed for Mandla by helicopter. Due to bad weather, Chief Minister Mohan Yadavs plane from Seoni Lakhnadon to Bhopal could not take off, so he stayed in Jabalpur on Wednesday night. Before heading to Mandla and after taking blessings of Maa Durga at Khermai temple, CM Yadav also had informal talk the media. He said there are only a few more days left for campaigning.
ELECTORAL BONDS SBI refuses to disclose details under RTI Act





NEW DELHI :

SBI claimed that it is personal information held in a fiduciary capacity

THE State Bank of India (SBI) has refused to disclose under the RTI Act the details of the electoral bonds furnished to the Election Commission (EC), claiming that it is personal information held in a fiduciary capacity, even though the records are in the public domain on the poll panels website. Holding that the electoral bonds scheme was unconstitutional and manifestly arbitrary, the Supreme Court directed the SBI on February 15 to furnish the complete details of the bonds purchased since April 12, 2019 to the EC, which would publish the information on its website by March 13. On March 11, the court dismissed the SBIs petition seeking an extension of the deadline and ordered it to disclose the details of the electoral bonds to the EC by the close of business hours on March 12.

RTI activist Commodore Lokesh Batra (retired) approached the SBI on March 13 seeking the complete data of the electoral bonds in the digital form, as provided to the EC after the Supreme Courts order. The bank denied the information citing two exemption clauses given under the Right to Information (RTI) Act -- section 8(1)(e) that is related to records held in a fiduciary capacity and section 8(1)(j) that allows withholding personal information. Information sought by you is containing details of purchasers and political parties and hence, cannot be disclosed as it is held in fiduciary capacity disclosure of which is exempted under sections 8(1)(e) and (j) of the RTI Act, the response furnished by the central public information officer and deputy general manager of the SBI said on Wednesday.

Batra had also soughtthedetailsofthefeespaid by the SBI to senior advocate Harish Salve to defend its case against the disclosure of the electoral bonds records, citing that the records are held in a fiduciary capacity and the information is personal in nature It is bizarre that the SBI denied the information that is already on the ECs website, Batra told PTI. On the question of Salves fee, he said the bank has denied information that involves taxpayers money. The EC published the data furnished by the SBI on its website on March 14, with the details of the donors and political parties that redeemed the bonds.

On March 15, the apex court pulled up the SBI for not furnishing the complete information by withholding the numbers unique to each electoral bond that would help match the donors with the recipient political parties, saying the bank was dutybound to reveal the information. A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said it had directed the disclosure of all the details of the bonds, including the names of the purchasers, amounts and dates of purchase. All details have to be furnished by the SBI, the CJI observed, as the court admonished the bank for furnishing incomplete information, a day after the EC put out the entire list of entities that purchased the bonds for making political donations. The SBI had said a total of 22,217 electoral bonds of varying denominations were purchased by the donors between April 1, 2019 and February 15 this year, of which 22,030 were redeemed by political parties.
Finally, fugitive ex-VC of RGPV arrested from Raipur





By Naman Atolia

At last, after a long search, police finally arrested absconding former Vice Chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya (RGPV), Professor Sunil Kumar from Raipur in Chhattisgarh on Thursday morning. As per the information, he was hiding at his acquaintances house in Raipur. Giving details about the arrest, Commissioner of Police Harinarayanchari Mishra said that the former Vice Chancellor was continuously changing his location and was hiding in an abandoned flat in Raipur. The police had also kept a reward of Rs 10,000 for catching the absconding Vice Chancellor. After bringing him to Bhopal further action will be taken, he said. Three special investigation teams were working to locate them. SIT had already arrested three accomplices of the main accused and their names are banker Kumar Mayank, Dalit Sangh member Sunil Raghuvansi and Ramkumar Raghuvansi. Whereas, former Registrar R S Rajput and Finance Controller of the university Rishikesh Verma are still absconding and a look out notice has been issued against them.

It is noteworthy that 4 fixed deposits (FDs) each of Rs 25 crore were found in the bank where the institutions money was transferred into personal accounts, in the name that the money was transferred in the bank account of the university. Sunil Kumar was the main accused. Following which, an FIR was registered on March 3, in the Gandhi Nagar Police Station of the city under sections 420, 467, 468,409 and 120(B) of the Indian Penal Code and Article 7, 13(1)(A) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, on the charges of cheating, forgery of valuable security, punishment of criminal conspiracy and others. Former VC of RGPV Sunil Kumar was suspended by the Technical Education Department for his alleged involvement in the fund scam.

The department took action on the findings of investigation into the alleged unauthorised transfer of over Rs 19.4 crore from the university account to private accounts. As per the information, the police has also freeze the bank accounts of the accused Kumar Mayank through which a sum of Rs 6,60,000 from his personal account, Rs 15,68,348 from SBI account, Rs 94,492 from Finance Bank, Rs 1,04,000 from Axis Bank and Rs 34,71,375 from RBL Bank were recovered. Earlier, the police had also announced a reward of worth Rs 30,000 on giving the information about the fugitives.

Repeated calls go unanswered The Hitavada also tried to contact officials of the university including the fugitives of the scandal but none of the calls were answered. In an interesting incident, when the English daily tried to contact the former registrar and main accused R S Rajput, the other person on the call said, Either speak in Assamese or in Bengali. I dont know Hindi or English. 
Our Govt kills terrorists on their home turf: PM in Ukhand





RISHIKESH,

PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the weak Congress Governments in the past failed to strengthen border infrastructure while under the strong BJP-led Government, security forces were eliminating terrorists on their own turf. Addressing an election rally here, Modi said the echoes of Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar were being heard across the country as people have seen the benefits of having a stable Government.

Enemies took advantage and terrorism spread whenever there were weak and unstable Governments in the country. But under a strong Modi Government, our forces are killing terrorists on their own turf, the Prime Minister said. A strong BJP Government had the courage to abrogate Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir after seven decades, make a law against triple talaq, give reservation to women in legislatures, and implement one rank, one pension, he added.

He said the weak Congress governments in the past could not strengthen the border infrastructure. Now, roads and tunnels are being built along the borders, Modi said.

The Prime Minister said he stopped the corrupt from looting the country and their anger against him was at its height.

He also asked the people of Uttarakhand to give a befitting reply to the Congress for talking about eliminating Shakti which is symbolised by the revered goddesses of Uttarakhand -- Maa Dhari Devi and Jwalpa Devi. Uttarakhand has five Lok Sabha seats and the voting will be held in a single phase on April 19.
Resolution introduced in US Congress condemning attacks on Hindu places of worship and Hinduphobia

Date :12-Apr-2024

Resolution introduced in US Congress condemning attacks on Hindu places of worship and Hinduphobia
Wake-up call.. 10,717 cases of malnourishment in urban centres, indicates survey







By Sagar Mohod

Unheard of so far, now the spectre of malnourishment has reared its head in urban areas of Maharashtra also, which has one of the fastest rates of urbanisation in the country, prompting the Government to roll out nutritious schemes at Urban Child Development Centres (UCDC). A health survey has indicated presence of 10,717 cases of malnourishment in urban centres which was a wake-up call for the administrators and planners. Malnutrition was mostly thought of a rural phenomena, mostly in tribal dominated pockets. In that sense, reporting of instances of urban malnutrition in such huge numbers is a cause for concern. The reason for urban malnutrition, as per experts in healthcare, is mostly due to large scale migration of rural populace to urban area in search of better livelihood. Most rural migrants end up living in urban ghettos, where access of medical care is limited and, due to high cost of living, even access to nutritious food is scarce.

It was, hence, a matter of time before malnutrition spectre surfaced in urban centres too. Normally, urban centres, that too in Maharashtra, are considered well off financially and it is presumed that they can afford the required nutrition. However, rising poverty in urban areas is causing distress and depriving children of nutrition. In view of data about emerging malnutrition cases in urban parts of the State, Women and Child Development Department has decided to roll out Energy Dense Nutritious Food (ENDF) through Urban Child Development Centres (UCDC). The scheme was so far being effectively implemented in rural areas through Anganwadis which helped improve the condition of improvised tribal children classified as severe acute malnutrition (SAM). There are about 140 UCDC in the State and they have been given a directive on how to go about implementing the measures to overcome nutrition deficiency among the urban children. The ENDF consists of combination of food items having necessary vitamins in measured quantity to ensure proper growth of the malnourished children.
China ready to take "China-DPRK Friendship Year" as an opportunity to promote bilateral relations: top legislator

Xinhua) 08:06, April 12, 2024

Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Choe Ryong Hae, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), in Pyongyang, the DPRK, April 11, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

PYONGYANG, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, held talks with Choe Ryong Hae, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), here on Thursday.

Zhao, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, told Choe, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), that the China-DPRK traditional friendship was established and cultivated meticulously by the elder generations of leaders of both parties and both countries.

General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping has repeatedly said that the CPC and the Chinese government attach great importance to the traditional friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries, and that it is China's unwavering strategy to maintain, consolidate and develop bilateral relations, Zhao said.

Noting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the DPRK, Zhao said that General Secretary Xi and WPK General Secretary Kim Jong Un have exchanged New Year congratulatory messages, and jointly designated 2024 as the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" and launched a series of activities.

China is ready to work with the DPRK to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of both parties and both countries, and take the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" as an opportunity to intensify high-level exchanges, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, promote people-to-people exchanges and strengthen strategic coordination, so as to promote China-DPRK relations to continue to move forward, Zhao said.

Exchanges between legislative bodies have been an important part of China-DPRK relations and long played a positive role in deepening bilateral relations, Zhao noted.

China is ready to intensify exchanges and cooperation with the DPRK's legislative bodies to help lift China-DPRK traditional friendly and cooperative relations to a higher level, he said.

Choe said the blood-cemented friendship between the two countries has a long history and profound foundation, and is the common precious heritage and wealth of the two countries.

Under the strategic guidance of General Secretary Kim and General Secretary Xi, DPRK-China friendly relations have entered a new era, which strongly demonstrates the vitality and unbreakability of bilateral relations, Choe said.

The DPRK is willing to join hands with China to follow the guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and two countries, and take the opportunity of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties and the "DPRK-China Friendship Year" to carry on and develop the traditional DPRK-China friendship, deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and push for continuous development of DPRK-China friendly and cooperative relations, he said.

The two sides exchanged views on the international and regional situations and the situation on the Korean Peninsula.

After the talks, Zhao and Choe witnessed the signing of cooperation documents in the fields including reciprocal exemption of diplomatic and service visas, mutual translation and publication of classical literatures, customs quarantine, radio and television, and postal delivery. They also jointly attended the welcoming banquet held by the DPRK for the Chinese party and government delegation.

Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, and Choe Ryong Hae, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), witness the signing of cooperation documents in the fields including reciprocal exemption of diplomatic and service visas, mutual translation and publication of classical literatures, customs quarantine, radio and television, and postal delivery after their talks in Pyongyang, the DPRK, April 11, 2024. Zhao Leji held talks with Choe Ryong Hae in Pyongyang on Thursday. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has disclosed signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the African Aviation and Aerospace University to prevent and mitigate accidents in the countrys transport sector.

This was revealed in a statement signed on Thursday by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NSIB, Bimbo Oladeji.

While speaking at the ceremony held at the NSIB Training School in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of NSIB, Alex Badeh, noted that the MoU set the stage for facility sharing, capacity building, and collaboration between the Bureau and AAAU.

Badeh said, I am confident that this MoU will enhance the effectiveness of our collaboration and commitment to promoting safer skies and operational excellence in the aviation industry in Nigeria and beyond."

Also, applauding the bureaus invaluable support and partnership, the Registrar of AAAU, represented by the Director of Physical Planning and Works, Masud Yerima, said, The journey of AAAUs establishment and progress would have faced considerable challenges without NSIBs generous support.

He also expressed AAAUs readiness to engage in mutually beneficial endeavours with NSIB, ensuring the successful realisation of shared objectives.

The AAAU registrar noted that the partnership marks a significant milestone in fostering a culture of safety and excellence within Nigerias aviation sector, and both NSIB and AAAU are poised to leverage this synergy for the benefit of the industry and the nation at large.
A high court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, has granted bail to the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, in the sum of N50 million.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released details of 18 out of the 26 fresh multi-million-dollar and naira corruption charges preferred against Emefiele.

Emefiele and Henry Isioma Omoile were arraigned at the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Monday by the EFCC on 26 fresh counts.

It was learnt that Emefiele and Omoile would be arraigned on another charge in Abuja between April 25 and 26, 2024, according to his lawyer.

The Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja on Monday adjourned the ruling on the bail application filed by Emefiele.

However, while ruling on Friday, Justice Rahman Oshodi, admitted Emefiele to bail with two sureties in like sum.

Justice Oshodi held that the sureties must be gainfully employed and have three years of tax payment with the Lagos State Government.

The court ordered that the sureties must show proper identification and must be registered in the Lagos State Bail Management System.
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Posers voters should raise now Disrespecting the people

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Questions, yes this is the time to raise questions and see if any of the political party or to be more specific if any of the Big 2 can respond to the questions being raised. This is the time for all right thinking persons to raise questions and not simply ingest what the candidates and the different political parties peddle to the people. And obviously the questions may revolve around the ongoing clash. Everyone knows how the clash started and one just have to go back to May 3, 2023 and a little earlier to understand how the clash erupted in all its ugliness on the mentioned date. It then follows that the question that should be raised is, why has the clash continued for nearly a year or 365 days ? Why is the Prime Minister silent even in the face of the fact that over 200 people on either side have been killed, over 60,000 people are still surviving in relief centres, while a few have had to migrate outside the State to live. What are the steps that the Government at Imphal has taken up to enable the displaced people to return to the place they once called home ? And what is the roadmap that the different political parties have drawn up or are planning to draw up to enable the displaced folks to return to home ? These are but some of the questions people should place before the different political parties and their candidates to see which among them deserve the vote of the people. The answer to what is the way forward is what the people would like to listen and no one is interested in the exercise of punching below the belt while going on the offensive against anyone and it should not cut ice with the voters. This is what every candidate and their supporters and the political party they represent at the hustings should take note of. Respect the sentiments of the people while going on the offensive against anyone, is the one line instruction that should be given to anyone who speaks out in favour of a particular candidate or who criticises any candidate while speaking in favour of the candidate they back. One cannot expect any out of the box thinking to deal with the present crisis if the gutter level mentality that one sees coming from some supporters or party representatives is anything to go by. Ever since the names of the candidates were finalised and electioneering started, one had expected to see some sort of high level debates, a sharing of ideas and a roadmap to take the people and Manipur to normalcy, but it is unfortunate to see some extremely distasteful and downright ugly style of running down the others in the electioneering exercise that is now going on in full steam.

What marks out the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the earlier ones witnessed in Manipur, is perhaps the level of interests the election has kicked up. At other times, for the Lok Sabha elections here, the common point was one of disinterested people, sans any debates on the merits and demerits of the candidates in the fray or where the different political parties stood on issues besieging the State. This time, however it is different. A positive departure it is from the earlier practice and in a way the level of interests the coming election has kicked up is a sort of a reflection of a people coming to terms with the importance of choosing ones representative to be sent to the Lower House of Parliament. The common topic for discussions and even debates now is who among the candidates seem better placed to tell the story of Manipur on the floor of Lok Sabha and beyond. Who is in a better position to highlight the story of Manipur beyond Parliament. These are talks doing the round amongst the interested folks and such a change in approach or mindset to the Lok Sabha elections is definitely a positive development. A point which the candidates concerned, the respective political party they represent as well as their supporters should acknowledge and ensure the healthy development one sees amongst the voters is not marred or disfigured by their uncouth posturing against the others. It is also time for the voters to acknowledge that the nonsensical barbs and words being used to run down the opponent/s is also a demonstration of the utter disrespect they have towards the very set of people from whom they are seeking support. Nothing can be more distasteful and uglier than this and the best lesson to teach these elements should lie on the button of the Electronic Voting Machine they choose to press on voting day. April 19 is just a few days away.
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Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Thursday that there will be no CAA, NRC or Uniform Civil Code in Bengal as these measures are intended to divide the country. She was addressing a gathering after Eid prayers on Red Road this morning. She was accompanied by Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamul Congress MP and national general secretary of the party. The Eid prayer was organised by the Khilafat Committee.

When elections come they talk about CAA, NRC and Uniform Civil Code just to scare people. They want to create fear psychosis among people. Do not get scared. Rest assured there will not be CAA, NRC or Uniform Civil Code in Bengal, Miss Banerjee said. She said an attempt is on to divide the country. We believe in harmony of religions. Here in Bengal people from different religions live happily and peacefully.

We observe different religious festivals. She urged people to maintain calm and not to fall into the trap. They are conspiring to create trouble in Bengal and disturb our communal peace and harmony. If were stay together no one can divide us, she said, adding: They are calling up Muslim leaders and asked about their requirement. They have money power and want to buy everything. Coming down heavily on the BJP-led Central government, she said: They are putting everyone behind the bars and sending ED, CBI and Income Tax (officials).

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I request them to set up a jail where the entire country can be sent. But they cannot scare us by sending the agencies. We fight like Royal Bengal tigers and know how to fight against them. Miss Banerjee said to get the support of the people one should love them and not oppress them. If we are not Indian nationals then how could people have elected the Prime Minister, Chief Minister, MPs, MLAs and councillors? They give hate speeches and their sole purpose is to divide the society and reap benefits out of this division, she said. Criticising the BJP she said: Before 2021 Assembly election they had said they would get 200 seats in Bengal and finally ended with 77 seats.

They are now talking big and said they would get 400 seats. I say first get 200 seats. They believe in julma and nothing else. Miss Banerjee criticized the courts and said: It is unfortunate that our leaders are not getting bail but the BJP leaders are getting bail from the court. We expect impartiality from the court. Miss Banerjee urged people to ensure that all their votes go to Trinamul Congress. We are a part of INDIA alliance, but here in Bengal we are fighting alone. Do not waste your vote. Addressing the gathering Mr Abhishek Banerjee said Hindusthan is no ones property. We all live here and a Hindu and a Muslim drink the same water. They are letting loose one brother against the other. The gloomy weather should change and there will be bright sunshine.
Many large companies that have received GST demand notices have decided to file an appeal with the Appellate Authority.

In recent days, an increasing number of GST notices have been sent to many companies mainly on account of alleged discrepancy in input tax credit (ITC).

ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited said it received an order from the Additional Commissioner, Customs & Central Tax, Hyderabad GST Commissionerate, raising a GST demand of Rs 14,786,059 and levying penalty of Rs 1,478,606.

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The company would pursue an appeal with the Appellate Authorities and evaluate other legal options against the order, ICICI Lombard said.

The order has imposed the demand on the grounds of computation of input tax credit eligible to the company and alleged undischarged tax liability due to differences between the returns filed by the company.

Vodafone Idea said it received an order under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, confirming a penalty of Rs 14,82,096 along with tax demand and interest as applicable. The order has been issued for the alleged availment and utilisation of excess ITC for FY 2018-19.

The company does not agree with the order and will take appropriate action for rectification or reversal of the same, Vodafone Idea said.

Bombay Dyeing said it received an order from the Excise and Taxation Officer, Gurugram, for a demand of Rs 95,68,375.

The order was issued for mismatch in input tax credit claimed as per the books and as per the GST portal, short payment of tax in GSTR-3B, and short payment of tax under RCM as compared to GSTR2A and GSTR-3B, Bombay Dyeing said.

We will file an appeal before Appellate Authority as the ITC claimed as per the books are in accordance with the law. There is no material impact on the financial operations of the company, Bombay Dyeing said.

HDFC Life Insurance said the company received a GST order from the Deputy Commissioner State Tax, Dehradun, in the matter of erstwhile Exide Life Insurance Company Limited on April 10.

This order will have no adverse material impact on the financial operations of the company and the same shall be further contested by the company by way of an appeal before the Appellate Authority, HDFC Life said.

Rallis India, a Tata enterprise, said the company received four orders from the Joint Commissioner of Sales Tax (Appeals), Nagpur division, dismissing the appeals filed before it for classification of business activities, and dues aggregating to Rs 5.01 crore, including interest and penalty, under the Bombay Sales Tax Act and Central Sales Tax Act for the financial years 1999-2000 and 2000-2001.

Based on the merits of the matter, prevailing law, and the advice of the counsel, the company is planning to appeal against these orders before the Appellant Authority expecting favourable orders from the authorities, Rallis India said.
An international tribunal ordered South Korea on Thursday to pay 43.8 billion won ($32 million) in compensation to US-based hedge fund Mason Capital in an investor-state lawsuit the company filed over a controversial 2015 merger of two Samsung affiliates, the Justice Ministry said.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in the Netherlands issued the decision nearly six years after the New York-based fund brought the investor-state dispute settlement process against the South Korean government, demanding $200 million in compensation.

The ordered compensation amount, which included interest on delayed payments, represents about 16 per cent of what Mason demanded, reports Yonhap news agency.

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The case dates back to the 2015 merger of two Samsung Group affiliates, Samsung C&T and Cheil Industries, where a ratio of 0.35 Cheil shares was offered for every one Samsung CT&T share.

Mason, which held a 2.18 per cent share in Samsung C&T at that time, objected to the merger, saying it undervalued Samsung C&T shares, and has since filed the suit in 2018, claiming the South Korean government had unfairly intervened in favour of the merger.

The merger, seen as aimed at tightening Samsung heir Lee Jae-yongs control over the family-controlled group, had been the centre of a massive corruption scandal that led to the ousting and the conviction of former President Park Geun-hye, as well as the imprisonment of Lee.

Mason accused the Park administration of exerting excessive influence in the state-run National Pension Service, a major shareholder in Samsung C&T, which was seen as a swing vote at that time, casting its vote in favour of the merger.
Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva on Friday said that it is surprising to see how the fear of the Presidents rule is haunting the 62-MLA-strong Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Sachdeva reacted after Delhi Cabinet Minister and senior AAP leader Atishi alleged that the BJP-led central government is orchestrating a big political conspiracy to impose Presidents rule in the national capital. She claimed that her party received several indications in this regard.

At a press conference here earlier in the day, Atishi said, I am cautioning the BJP that the imposition of Presidents rule in Delhi will be illegal, unconstitutional, and against the mandate of the people of Delhi. The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party.

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She further said, The officers of the Delhi government have stopped attending official meetings. These developments indicate that there is a plot to topple the government of Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi and to impose the Presidents rule.

The Enforcement Directorate arrested Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on 21 March in connection with the excise policy case.

In a rebuttal to Atishis allegation, Sachdeva said, Atishi is raising the issue of Presidents rule at the behest of Arvind Kejriwal. It is merely an attempt to intimidate her MLAs to keep them united. It would be better if Arvind Kejriwal resigns on his own and hands over the reins of the government to a new Chief Minister to administer Delhi.

The Delhi BJP president said Arvind Kejriwal has started feeling the impact of the Delhi High Courts rebuke, and Atishi too has started feeling the impact of the defamation notice from the Delhi BJP.

Atishi has today left aside her old fabricated story of operation lotus against the AAP and has, instead, woven a new story of imposition of Presidents rule in Delhi, Sachdeva said.

She has claimed today that the Presidents rule is likely to be imposed in Delhi, the Delhi BJP president said.

Sachdeva said Atishi should clarify whether the departure of a majority of AAP MLAs from her party is the reason behind the governments fears about losing its majority.

He said it is true that Arvind Kejriwal formed government in Delhi twice after 2013. However, during this period, the people of Delhi gave BJP a big lead in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections, and the 2017 municipal elections, he added.

It would not be an exaggeration to say that the same Delhi people, who elected Arvind Kejriwals government with a huge majority twice in Delhi, also extended their full support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for forming the government at the Centre, Sachdeva said.
The Delhi Police have busted a gang of alleged female thieves who used to target women travelling on the Delhi Metro with the arrest of five women, the police said on Friday.

All the accused women were sent to judicial custody, a police official said.

The action was initiated to nab the women thieves following a complaint by a woman commuter.

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Reportedly, the complainants purse containing Rs 50,000 in cash, her PAN card and cash card, was allegedly stolen between Rajiv Chowk and Rajendra Place metro stations.

The accused used to divert the victims attention, even using their infanys to pick up quarrels with the fellow lady travelers.

Rs 44,900 in cash were recovered from them, an official said.

After registration of a case against the gang, a police team began the probe, and the team scanned through the CCTV footage of Rajiv Chowk Metro station and tracked the movement of the complainant till she boarded the Metro train on blue line towards Rajendra Place.

Thereafter, CCTV footage from inside the Metro train was also checked and it was apparent that five ladies surrounded the complainant from all sides in a crowd, the police said.

According to the police, it came as a surprise that two of them was carrying infants to divert the attention of the complainant, while the other ladies, smartly picked a small purse from her handbag and suddenly vanished from the compartment at the R K Ashram Marg metro station.

Their trail was followed through CCTV, where they were seen boarding an auto and later de- boarded the same at the Fareedpuri transit camp shanties, Anand Parbat.

After zeroing in on them, a police team finally nabbed them from the Connaught Place area on Wednesday morning while they were headed towards Rajiv Chowk Metro Station.
Delhi Minister and senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Friday accused the ruling dispensation at the Centre of hatching a conspiracy to impose Presidents rule in Delhi.

Addressing a press conference here, she alleged that Arvind Kejriwals arrest was a political conspiracy to topple his government. We have learned from reliable sources that in the coming days, Presidents Rule will be imposed on Delhi, she added.

The AAP leader said the imposition of the Presidents rule in the national capital would be illegal, unconstitutional, and against the mandate of the people of Delhi.

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The AAP leader said the BJP wants to topple the popular government led by Kejriwal as it was not going to win the Lok Sabha elections in the national capital. The reason for the conspiracy is the work done by the Delhi government under the leadership of the AAP chief.

The BJP-led Central government is putting hurdles in the way of the AAP Government in the national capital to hinder its smooth functioning, she said, adding that for the last several days no officer has been posted in Delhi.

The posting of IAS officers is done by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Atishi claimed that for the last several months, no senior IAS officer has been posted in Delhi. As a result, many posts are lying vacant in various departments.

The AAP leader complained that the Delhi lieutenant governor has been repeatedly writing to the MHA against the Delhi government for the last week without any reason.It is said (in the letters to the MHA) that the ministers do not come to the meeting despite being called by him to hold discussion. Its the same LG who says in the court that he has nothing to do with it as it is a transferred subject, Atishi pointed.

The Senior AAP leader also said on the pretext of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), the Delhi government officials have stopped attending meetings on important issues no matter how important the issues on the agenda are. All these signs point to a huge conspiracy to topple the Delhi government, and to impose Presidents rule in Delhi, she added.

On the confidence motion, she said on February 17, the Kejriwal government proved its majority by conducting a floor test in the Delhi Assembly. As per the Constitution of India, the Presidents rule cannot be imposed when a government has the confidence of the Assembly, she said.

Reacting to the AAP leaders claim, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said that it was surprising to see the fear of the Presidents Rule was haunting the ruling AAP which has 62 MLAs in the assembly.
A big chunk of Hindu population, with over 75,000 Bangladeshis (from East Pakistan) residing mostly on the banks of Sharda river dam here, is eagerly waiting for June 4, when they expect Prime Minister Narendra Modi to return to power for the third time after the counting for general election takes place. With this, they expect a full-fledged implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the country.

These Bangladeshis, who came to Pilibhit before 1971, are facing several problems and no respite is seen before the announcement of the CAA.

The CAA removes barriers for acquiring Indian citizenship for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians from the neighbouring countries of Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan who arrived in India on or before 31 December 2014.

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Now, queues of people are seen in front of the makeshift cyber cafe in 10 Gram panchayats of Puranpur tehsil , where these Bengali-speaking people are submitting their online forms on the portal to get citizenship rights.

This migrant population is all praises for PM Modi for bringing in the CAA to solve their problems, and they have resolved to support the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.

The people of Ramnagra Panchayat, which has a 6,000-strong Bengali population, complained that police and government officials harass their children who were born in Pilibhit, and are denying them approval to obtain passports or mutations of their land.

UP PWD Minister and BJP candidate from Pilibhit, Jitin Prasada, too accepted that these Bangladeshi migrants have several problems and he assured that after the enactment of the CAA, everything should be alright.

The minister, whose great-grandmother Sudakshina Devi was Ravindranath Tagores niece, promised that PM Modi has taken these steps to give these migrants permanent citizenship of the country.

When The Statesman reporter visited this area, about 40 km from Pilibhit city and adjoining the Tiger Reserve, the villages were decked up and reflected the essence of Bengali culture with amenities including Kalibari, Bengali hotels and sweet shops.

Harashit Mahato, 78, says that he came to Pilibhit 28 years ago, and his children grew up here only. But we have several problems and no one to hear our grievances. Now, fortunately, PM Modi has given us the CAA weapon, which will certainly end our woes and help our children lead a better life, he said.

There are 10 gram panchayats  Kundannagar, Bidhipur, Najaulia Natka, Gabia, Maharajpur, Nagoria Lalpur, Ramnagra, Sela and Dhuria  all situated on the banks of Sharda Sagar dam. The population moved there in 1989 when their land was inundated by river Sharda, and now the irrigation department has asked them to vacate the area.

Mukund Biswas, 48, who runs a medical clinic, says most of the natives here came from Jessore, Khulna, Faridpur, Dacca, and Barishal districts of erstwhile East Pakistan during the 1971 war.

But the big problem is that the government and police term us illegal migrants, and even after staying in India for over 53 years , we live in fear of being thrown out of the country, Biswas, a non-certified medical practitioner, said while attending to his patients.

Twenty Four-year old Deepanker Mistri, who runs a cyber cafe, told this reporter that there were long queues of people submitting online forms of the CAA on the portal.

There are several anomalies on the portal, even after several rectifications, forms were getting rejected. The portal is demanding several documents that people dont have, he said.

The migrants first have to submit the CAA form online and keep the hard copy with them to present it before government officials when they personally come for inspection. Though the portal charges just Rs 55 per form, the people have to shell out around Rs 500 for online submission of the form.

There is also an interesting case of Subal Das, 80, who migrated from 24 North Parganas of West Bengal in 1970. But they too are treated like Bangladeshis and were forced to submit CAA forms.

Subals son Sameer, who runs a Bengali sweet shop in the market of Ramnagra village, says they have all documents but sometimes they are denied voting rights after their names were deleted from electoral rolls.

 It is strange that we are bonafide citizens of India and have all the documents of West Bengal, but still we are treated as Bangladeshis and forced to fill up CAA forms, he said, blaming the police and local officials for minting money for valid benefits.

One Vishnu Mandal says that several thousand Bangladeshis were also residing in the Nanpara area of the Bahraich district of UP. There are also thousands of Hindu migrants in Khatima, Uttarakhand.
The Congress on Friday demanded a CBI probe into the recent blast at Moolaithodu in Kannur district of Kerala which claimed one life and injured three others.

KPCC acting president M M Hassan wrote to the chief election commissioner alleging that the state police would not carry out a proper probe into the incident. He claimed the Kerala polices investigation is helping the culprits associated with the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the youth wing of the ruling CPI(M), in the state.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has taken this episode very lightly even though the police report states that these bombs were made in anticipation of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Congress leader said.

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He said the explosives were made with the knowledge of the ruling party in an attempt to attack Congress activists on election day.

We suspect that this (bomb making) was orchestrated by the Left to be used against the Congress supporters on the day of the polls to scare people. Hence, we demand that this should be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Hassan said in the letter.

According to police reports, DYFI activists Shijal and Shabin Lala procured steel containers for the production of explosives, raising concerns about the extent of organizational involvement in unlawful activities.

The police remand report also indicated that all the accused individuals had knowledge about bomb-making and that they had concealed explosives and tampered with evidence.

Meanwhile, CPI-M Kerala secretary M V Govindan also blamed the DYFI for its alleged involvement in the Panoor bomb blast. He said DYFI activists must be questioned.

One person was killed and three were injured when a crude bomb they were allegedly making exploded at Moolaithodu near Panoor in Kannur district.
The government on Friday advised all Indians not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice in view of the prevailing situation in the region.

All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with the respective Indian embassies there and register themselves, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum, it said in a statement.

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Earlier in the day, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had noted with concern the attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Syria.

India is distressed at the escalating tensions in West Asia, and their potential to fuel further violence and instability. We urge all parties to avoid actions that go against commonly accepted principles and norms of International Law, he said.
The government is set to launch a comprehensive mission-mode operation to confront the persistent challenge of Maoist insurgency at its core.

To spearhead this initiative, Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Intelligence Bureau (IB) Chief Tapan Kumar Deka commenced a two-day visit to Chhattisgarh on Wednesday.

This visit started with an extensive meeting at Raipurs police headquarters. Notably, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed the governments resolute commitment to eliminate the Maoist insurgency within three years during his recent visit to Chhattisgarh in January of this year.

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The meeting witnessed active participation from officers deployed in Bastar, including paramilitary forces, IB, and police officials. Sources indicate that the government is prepared to address the Maoist insurgency with the same vigor as counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir. Virtual participation of senior police officers from Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh underscores the collaborative approach adopted to eradicate the Maoist insurgency.

In a crucial meeting led by the Chief Secretary and IB Director, Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police from 10 states came together for a vital discussion. The agenda centered on ensuring electoral peace during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and devising robust strategies for Maoist-affected regions. Plans were unveiled to implement Target-Based Operations akin to those in Kashmir, deploying specialised teams to conduct thorough surveillance of Maoist activities.

Senior officials from Chhattisgarh and neighboring states alongwith heads of central security forces engaged in virtual meetings to discuss inter-state coordination on law and order. The meeting emphasised launching covert operations against Maoist factions based on insights from the Intelligence Bureau. The focus was on actionable intelligence and implementing Target-Based Operations to dismantle the Maoist insurgency effectively.

Prominent officials from Chhattisgarh including Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain and DGP Ashok Juneja actively participated in the discussions, along with representatives from CRPF and other central agencies. The recent successful operations against Maoist insurgents in Bijapur were acknowledged by the senior officials, reflecting the progress made in the fight against insurgency. Addressing operational challenges including resource deficits, Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Tapan Kumar Deka emphasised the importance of refining the Target Best Approach with a focus on meticulous target identification.

The Governments proactive measures to confront the Maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh demonstrate a resolute effort to bring about peace and stability to the region. With high-level meetings, collaborative strategies, and targeted operations, there is a clear commitment to address the roots of the insurgency and safeguard the democratic process during the upcoming elections.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hit the campaign trail for the Kairana and Saharanpur Lok Sabha seats on Friday, addressing public gatherings in favour of the NDA candidates contesting the two constituencies.

During his campaign, he lamented that Saharanpur, which had the potential to become the Kashi of the West, turned into a hotbed of religious fanaticism by previous administrations. He attributed the chaos and anarchy in the constituency to fatwas and made an appeal to the public to be wary of the individuals, who denied the existence of Lord Ram in the Supreme Court and are now chanting his name for electoral gains.

The chief minister said work was underway to confiscate the property of the ancestors of those who are playing with the future of the youth and distribute it among the poor. He emphasised the progress made in rooting out the mafia in Uttar Pradesh, saying, Kuch mafia jail mein hai, kuch jahannum chale gaye (Some of the mafias are behind bars, while the rest have met their fate).

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In his address at a public meeting in Kairana, he said, Our government has given riot and curfew-free Uttar Pradesh. We have fostered a peaceful and harmonious environment by suppressing those who incite riots and enforce curfews. Lets not allow them to thrive again, as they will only foment disturbances again through caste-based politics.

He further said, This (the turmoil) poses a threat to the safety of our daughters and the prosperity of our businessmen and hinders development. To transcend this and take action, we must not allow rioters, corrupt individuals, anarchists, and those who endanger the lives of our daughters, mothers, farmers, and youth to thrive again, regardless of their status.

The chief minister said playing with the future of the youth is unacceptable and warned that anyone who indulges in it would face confiscation of their ancestral property to be distributed among the underprivileged. The vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is our mission. We would work together with his vision and mission to build a new India, he asserted.

He urged the public to vote in support of the BJP and Rashtriya Lok Dals joint Lok Sabha candidate Pradeep Chaudhary.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing a public gathering in the Saharanpur Lok Sabha constituency, likened the mafia to the mythical demon Raktbeej, stressing that they must not be allowed to thrive again under any circumstances.

He remarked, Congress and the SP used to capitulate to them, but today, Kuch mafia jail mein hain, kuch jahannum chale gaye (Some of the mafia are behind bars, while others have met their fate). Their influence has been completely extinguished.

He highlighted the clear division in this election between two opposing ideologies. On the one hand, there are those driven by caste divisions, while on the other, there are individuals dedicated to nationalism. On one hand, there are those who intends to tear apart the social fabric, while on the other, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, there are people who believe in upholding Indias dignity.

We have removed the mics and loudspeakers from which they used to shout and cause disturbances. Our country and our religion are our national pride. If they are secure, so are we, declared CM Yogi.

He remarked that Deoband had become a center of religious fanaticism with fatwas issued on trivial matters, including how vaccines should be administered. From here, attempts were made to spread chaos and anarchy, with little attention paid to development.

CM Yogi was addressing an election rally in Deoband on Friday in support of BJP candidate Raghav Lakhan Pal Sharma from Saharanpur Lok Sabha seat.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will get the statehood, and time is not far when Assembly elections will be held here and people will be able to share their dreams and problems with their MLAs and ministers.

Modi was addressing a largely attended election rally in Udhampur in favour of BJP candidates  Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and Jammu MP Jugal Kishore.

The PM said, This election is not just to elect MPs but this is the election to form a strong government in the country. When the government is strong, it governs by challenging the challenges.

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Referring to the confidence that has been built among the people of J&K in the past ten years, the PM said Modi thinks far ahead. What has happened so far is just a trailer. I have to get busy, creating a wonderful picture of a new Jammu and Kashmir.

This is the first time when terrorism, separatism, stone-pelting and cross border shelling and firing are not the election issues. It used to make headline in newspapers if a day passed peacefully in J&K. The situation has changed and confidence for the government has been built, Modi said.

I had told you to trust me and I will solve the problems you have been facing for the past 60 years. I had guaranteed dignity for the mothers and sisters here. I gave a guarantee that the poor would not have to worry about two meals a day. Today, lakhs of families of Jammu and Kashmir have the guarantee of free ration for the next five years.

Modi said that the weak Congress governments kept the Shahpur-Kandi Dam project stalled for decades and the waters of the Ravi kept flowing to Pakistan while the fields of the farmers in the arid Kathua and Samba districts remained barren.

Modi has given the guarantee to the farmers of diverting the Ravi waters to their fields and has fulfilled it. The electricity generated from the Dam will also benefit the people of J&K.

Hitting out at the Congress and other dynastic parties, Modi said: For the sake of power, they built a wall of Article 370 but due to your blessings, Modi demolished not only the wall but also restored the dignity of women here. These parties want to take Jammu and Kashmir back to the old days. No one has caused as much damage to Jammu and Kashmir as these family-run parties have done. Here political party means the family, by the family and for the family.

I challenge any political party, especially the Congress, to announce that they will restore Article 370. This country will not even look at them, he pointed out.

Modi said that the Ram Mandir is not an election issue for the BJP. The struggle for the Ram Mandir was going on for the past over 500 years even before the birth of the BJP. When the Mughal invaders destroyed our temples, people fought to save the religious places. Congress leaders and their allies lived in sprawling bungalows but never bothered to replace the leaking tents of Ram Lalla, he stated.

The last assembly elections were held in 2014, which threw a fractured mandate. In August 2019, the Centre revoked J&Ks semi-autonomous position under Article 370 of the Constitution and Presidents rule was imposed. Since then, no assembly election has been held in the new Union Territory.
In a setback to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), a division bench of the Kerala High Court on Friday declined to intervene in the single bench order that former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac shall not be summoned for interrogation in the masala bond case until the conclusion of the 2024 general election since he is a contesting candidate from the Pathanamthitta constituency.

The division bench comprising Justice A Muhamed Mustaque and Justice M A Abdul Hakhim said the matter could be heard soon after the elections, i.e. in the last week of April or the first week of May. The elections are scheduled in Kerala on 26 April 2024. Both the parties (ED and Dr Isaac) are agreeable to hear the matter immediately after the elections, the division bench said.

Additional Solicitor General of India (ASGI) A R L Sundaresan submitted before the court that politics is not a reason to interfere with law.

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The ASGI argued that the ED is entitled to continue its investigation and elections cannot be a reason to postpone the investigation. It was argued that the ED did not issue summons after the election was notified but summons were issued much before the elections. It was also argued that the ED investigation was almost over and Dr Issac had to cooperate with the summons to conclude the investigation. It was submitted that the single judge on perusal of documents submitted by the ED had found that there is some explanations to be sought from Dr Isaac and hence it was argued that elections should not be the only ground to delay the investigation.

The counsel on behalf of Dr Isaac submitted that the ED investigation on the brink of the election would affect his electoral prospects. It was argued that the ED has no bonafide and summons were issued without a prima facie case.

The ED has moved an appeal before the Kerala High Court against the order of the single bench directing that former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac shall not be summoned for investigation until the conclusion of the 2024 general election since he is a contesting candidate from the Pathanamthitta constituency.

On Tuesday, the single bench of Justice T R Ravi adjourned the hearings in the Masala Bond case stating that it was improper to disturb a candidate who is contesting the parliamentary elections. The single judge had adjourned the hearing to 22 May, that is upon reopening of court after the summer vacation.
In a strategic electoral move, the National Conference (NC) on Friday named its vice-president and former chief minister Omar Abdullah as its candidate for north Kashmirs Baramulla Lok Sabha seat.

The party also announced to field a senior NC leader Aga Syed Ruhulla from Srinagar, which is presently represented by the party chief Dr Farooq Abdullah.

The announcement of replacing the sitting MP Mohammad Akbar Lone with Omar Abdullah was made by Dr Abdullah in a press conference in Srinagar. Polling for the seat will be held on 20 May.

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With this, the NC has announced its candidates for all the three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir, while it is supporting Congress candidates on the two seats of Jammu. The PDP, which is also a partner of the INDIA bloc, has also announced its three candidates. PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti has been named the candidate for south Kashmirs Anantnag seat.

The contest in Baramulla now will be mainly between NCs Omar, PDPs Fayaz Ahmad Mir, who is a former Rajya Sabha member, and Sajad Lone of the Peoples Conference.

Omar, who was also present in the press conference, challenged the BJP to field its own candidates in Kashmir instead of backing proxies. He was apparently referring to a reported meeting between a top BJP functionary and Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari and Peoples Conference president Sajad Lone.

Omar said there should be no surprise in his candidature from north Kashmir. The last Assembly seat, Beerwah, which I represented is also in the north, he said.

Dr Farooq Abdullah said that the influential Shia leader, Aga Syed Ruhulla Mehdi, will contest from the Srinagar constituency.

It is worth mentioning that after abrogation of Article 370, and degradation of J&K state into a union territory in 2019, Omar had announced that he would not contest the Assembly elections unless J&Ks statehood was restored.

The NC had earlier announced an influential spiritual leader of the Gujjar community, Mian Altaf, its candidate for south Kashmirs Anantnag seat.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said people have made up their minds to punish the Congress in the Lok Sabha election and give 400 seats to the NDA because the Congress in Parliament had tried to put hurdles in his good work all through the last 10 years.

Addressing a BJP election rally at Barmer in Rajasthan, he said whenever elections come, the Congress replays its old talk on the Constitution to attack him. This was a party which discriminated against the SCs, STs and OBCs, he said, and did not let architect of the Constitution Babasaheb Ambedkar win an election, and denied him Bharat Ratna.

The Congress which had tried to finish off the Constitution by imposing Emergency in the country, now talks of the Constitution and comes out with distorted facts to abuse him, Mr Modi said.

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It is Modi who started the celebration of Constitution Day. The Congress had opposed the celebration of Constitution Day in Parliament. The partys speech is on record. Was this not an insult of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the Constitution, the Prime Minister asked.

Not just this, he said, he had developed the panch-teerthas connected with Babasahebs life. Therefore, he said, it is necessary to be careful about falsehoods and gossip being spread by the Congress and the INDI alliance about the Constitution.

As far as the Constitution is concerned, he said, he is ready to go on record that even if Babasaheb Ambedkar comes today, he will not be able to undo the Constitution. For the government, our Constitution is Gita, Ramayan, Mahabharat, Bible and Quran; it is all this for us, he said.

The Prime Minister said the Congress Partys hatred for the country is evident in its manifesto. The Congress manifesto carries the imprint of the Muslim League which was responsible for the countrys Partition, he said.

Mr Modi said another member of the INDI alliance has made a dangerous announcement in its manifesto that it will sink all the countrys nuclear weapons in the sea and destroy them.

Can this be acceptable when the countrys neighbours on both sides have nuclear weapons, he asked. He said when Modi is trying to make the country powerful, the INDI alliance wants to destroy the nuclear weapons. Should these weapons be destroyed, he asked the crowd.

I want to ask the Congress, it should clarify on whose instruction your INDI alliance partner is working, and wants to make India weak and incapable in nuclear power, the Prime Minister said.

Would such people be acceptable to you, do you accept a weak nation, should they not be punished for their plans in the coming election by pressing the lotus sign button, he asked the gathering.

He said the whole nation should be careful about the INDI alliance. The Congress considers the country just a piece of land, he said. The Congress president said in Rajasthan if Modi had removed Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, what has Rajasthan to do with it. This is doubting the patriotism of Rajasthan, he said.

Rajasthan and Barmer sacrificed lives in Kashmir, he said. Rajasthan had accepted and given shelter to families of Kashmiri Hindus thrown out of Jammu and Kashmir. Kargil people who had gone to Iran and suffered from Covid, were given shelter in Jaisalmer and sent back to their homes after treatment. The nation is proud of this, the Prime Minister said.

Mr Modi said the Congress wants to break the nation on language, region and on castes, and should be taught a lesson once again in this election. It opposes all that is in the interest of the nation and stands with anti-national forces, the Prime Minister said.

In Rajasthan and in the country, we worship Shakti, but the Congress Prince says he will destroy Hindu dharmas Shakti, he said. Mr Modi said he is sure the female power of the country will give a fitting reply to this.

When Ram temple construction takes place, the Congress boycotts it. The party goes with people who throw stones at Ram Navami processions in Rajasthan. The party welcomes infiltrators, but opposes citizenship rights for Sikhs and Dalits who opposed the Partition.

The Congress thinking shows it is anti-development, he said. The party considered Indias border villages as the countrys last villages. It had denied development to these villages saying it could invite the enemy to take over the land. How could they think like this? Which enemy has the courage to enter and seize Barmer land, Mr Modi said.

Should such a party get even a single seat in the State, he asked. This time, all Congress candidates should lose security deposits in this election, he told the cheering crowds. They will not reform, they should be cleaned off, he said. On 26 April, first cast your vote and then take refreshments, he said.
Rajya Sabha member of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Sanjay Singh met Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav on Friday at the state headquarters of his party here this evening.

This meeting took place when Akhilesh Yadav returned straight to Lucknow after the election public meeting in Pilibhit and a program in Sitapur.

Sanjay Singh was also accompanied by his wife Mrs. Anita Singh.

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Akhilesh Yadav spoke on phone to Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to inquire about her well-being.

Yadav told media persons that the BJP was misusing constitutional institutions. This method is unethical in democracy.

Changes in power keep happening, but the way Kejriwal and other leaders are being harassed and kept in Tihar Jail is an attempt to break their morale in which BJP is not going to succeed, he added.

Sanjay Singh assured that the AAP would extend its full support and cooperation to the SP and INDI alliance to save democracy and end dictatorship. Akhilesh has thanked Aam Aadmi Party for its support.

Both the leaders said the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are an election to save the Constitution and democracy. The public will give a befitting reply to the harassing attitude adopted by the BJP towards the opposition.

Yadav said the eyes of the country and the world are on the Lok Sabha elections 2024. Injustice is being done to the elected head of state. Institutions are being weakened. Leaders are being sent to jail by filing false cases. The Chief Minister of Jharkhand has been kept in jail. The police are making people join BJP by intimidating them, he added.

Sanjay Singh expressed gratitude for the support of Samajwadi Party in this time of crisis and said that this is an opportunity to mobilize against the dictatorial rule. All AAP workers and leaders will work to make the Samajwadi Party candidates victorious. We are together in the fight to save the Constitution and democracy, he added.
While commonly found in kitchens, rosemary offers benefits far beyond its use as a hair oil. Although known for promoting hair growth and enhancing hair health, this evergreen shrub, a member of the mint family, yields a potent essential oil with a rich history in traditional medicine. Curious about its other potential benefits? Here are a few notable ones:

Enhances Cognitive Function

The oil is a staple in aromatherapy, with scientific evidence supporting its ability to boost cognitive functions such as mental alertness, mood enhancement, and cortisol reductionan essential factor, as elevated cortisol levels can weaken immunity. Additionally, it aids in stress and depression relief.

Alleviates Inflammation

With its anti-inflammatory properties, rosemary oil offers relief from various inflammatory symptoms. Used for centuries in herbal medicine, it can mitigate mild pain associated with muscle soreness, headaches, and even early-stage arthritis. Simply mix a few drops of rosemary oil with a carrier oil and apply daily for noticeable results.

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Eases Digestive Issues

In addition to its cognitive and hair health benefits, rosemary plays a significant role in addressing gastrointestinal problems. Whether dealing with stomach pain, indigestion, cramps, or bloating, massaging a mixture of rosemary oil and carrier oil onto the lower abdomen consistently can provide relief.

Reduces Stress

Elevated cortisol levels due to stress can weaken the immune system. Rosemary oil, by influencing neurotransmitters, helps alleviate stress and anxiety. Since chronic stress is linked to weight gain and oxidative stress, incorporating aromatherapy into nightly routines can be beneficial.

Promotes Blood Circulation

While further research is needed, rosemary oil is believed to enhance blood flow by dilating blood vessels, ensuring consistent circulation.

In summary, the plant offers a plethora of benefits. Whether diffused or applied directly with a carrier oil, incorporating rosemary essential oil into your routine can yield numerous health advantages.

Also Read: Unlock youthful skin with collagen rich diet secrets
Congress leader and MLA Sudip Roy Barman hit out at the BJP-led central government and said that every slogan that was given by the BJP party was false.

Addressing an election rally in Tripuras Belonia on Thursday, Barman said, According to me, the slogan that they are using, Ab ki baar 400 paar is just to blindfold the common people as their internal condition is very weak, and their top leaders are assuming to get 200 seats only.

Every slogan given by the BJP party is a fraud. Every commitment that was made by them was false. They had failed in every sector. The people of Tripura have realized everything and I am sure that they will vote for the future of Tripura, he added.

Seeking support from the people for the INDIA alliance, Barman said that the election is not between the INDIA alliance and the BJP, but rather between the fascist government and the Indian people.

The election fight is not between the INDIA alliance and the BJP, rather the fight is between the fascist government and the Indian people. The people who wanted to save their constitution came together and declared war against the fascist government, he said.

With Lok Sabha elections around the corner, poll campaigns by political parties are in full swing.

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The massive rally on Thursday was held in support of Congress leader Ashish Saha, who is the partys candidate from West Tripura, and CPIMs Rajendra Reang, who is the candidate from East Tripura Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency.

Former Tripura CM Manik Sarkar, and the five-time MLA, Sudip Roy Barman, were present at the campaign and addressed the public, appealing to vote in favour of the INDIA bloc.

West Tripura candidate Ashish Saha addressed the rally and urged the people to vote, not for the political party but to save the constitution of the country.

All democratic environments have been destroyed. This vote is not to choose any political party but to save the constitution of our country. All political parties have their agendas but this time the election means fighting for the sustainability of the democratic environment in the country and state. The people of Tripura will come along the side of democracy and will vote for the preservation of the constitution, he said.

Polling for the Lok Sabha in Tripura is scheduled to be held in two phases. The West Tripura seat will go to the polls on April 19, while East Tripura will witness voting on April 26. The counting of votes will be held on June 4.

The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats in the country will be held in seven phases, starting April 19. Nearly 97 crore voters are eligible to cast their votes in the general elections.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has vowed an appropriate response if Iran attacks his countrys territory.

A direct Iranian attack on Israeli territory will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran, Gallant told US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Thursday during a phone conversation on preparations for a possible Iranian retaliatory attack, Xinhua news agency reported.

During the conversation, Gallant detailed the Israeli preparations and emphasised that Israel will not tolerate an Iranian attack on its territory.

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It was the second time the two officials had talked over the past week.

The US Intelligence officials have assessed that Iran could launch a counter-attack soon in response to the killing of seven Iranians in an Israeli airstrike on Irans consulate in Syria on April 1.

Earlier on Thursday, Commander of the US Central Command Michael Kurilla arrived in Israel for talks with Gallant and Herzi Halevi, the Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, to coordinate responses to a potential Iranian attack.
At least 13,000 people have been evacuated in parts of Russia as of Thursday, as multiple regions continue to battle extreme floods amid rising water levels, local authorities said.

In some of the worst flooding in decades due to a continuous rise in daily average temperatures, snowmelt and rivers thawing, Russias western Siberia, the Volga region and the Central Federal District have been flooded.

A state of emergency has been declared in the Orenburg, Kurgan and Tyumen regions, Xinhua news agency reported.

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In the worst-hit western Orenburg region, 7,800 people have been evacuated, according to the regional government, with water levels in the Ural river around the region breaking records last Thursday night.

The flooding is expected to peak in the region in the near future, the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations said.

In the Kurgan region, molre than 6,000 people have been evacuated, said regional governor Vadim Shumkov.

In the Tobol river near the regions severely affected Zverinogolovsky district, water levels have surpassed 10 metre, over one metre above the critical level, and are expected to rise above 11 metre in the near future, local media reported.

In the Tyumen region, water in the Ishim and Tobol rivers rose by 56 cm and 22 cm in one day, local authorities said on Thursday, adding that the peak of the flood is expected by April 23 to 25.
Countering the opposition's allegation that the BJP was out to destroy the Constitution, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, said his government reveres it and even Babasaheb Ambedkar would not be able to abolish it now.

Addressing an election rally in Rajasthan's Barmer, Modi alleged that the Congress was standing with anti-national forces and accused the opposition INDIA bloc of "trying to weaken" the country.

"The Congress, which discriminated against SCs, STs and OBCs for decades, made Babasaheb lose elections, did not give him Bharat Ratna, and tried to abolish the Constitution by imposing emergency in the country, is today taking cover of the Constitution to abuse Modi," he said.

"The INDIA alliance is telling lies in the name of the Constitution," he added.

Modi said his government came up with the idea of celebrating Constitution Day, which was opposed by the Congress, and he also developed the 'Panchtirthas' associated with Ambedkar.

He said the people are talking about the BJP winning 400 seats this time because the Congress has continuously tried to stop him from doing good work in the last 10 years. "Hence the country wants to punish you (Congress) and has made up its mind to clean you up," he said.

"As far as the Constitution is concerned, even if Babasaheb Ambedkar himself comes, he cannot abolish it. The Constitution is Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bible and Quran for the government. For us, the Constitution is everything," Modi said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had last month alleged that the "ultimate goal of Narendra Modi and the BJP is to destroy Babasaheb's Constitution" after BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde's statement that the party needs a two-thirds majority to amend the Constitution.

The BJP had played down the remarks by Hegde, saying they were his "personal opinion."
Amid the escalating Middle East tensions, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has advised citizens on Friday from travelling to Iran and Israel until further notice.

The advisory is issued in the wake of Iran's attack threat against Israel after its suspected airstrike on Iran's consulate in Syria killed several people earlier this month.

Along with India, countries including the US and Russia have also issued travel advisories for their staff and citizens in the region.

"In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," MEA advisory stated.

Those already in the nations were requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum.

About 13 people were killed in the April 1 attack on the Iranian consulate building including senior Iranian military leaders. Among them was Brig-Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander of Iran's elite Quds Force in Syria and Lebanon.

Iran has vowed to strike back against Israel, though the country has not claimed the responsibility for the attack so far. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has promised Israel "ironclad" US support. "As I told Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad - let me say it again, ironclad," said Biden.

"We are going to do all we can to protect Israel's security," he added.

The US and the Israeli forces in the region have been on high alert since Irans retaliation threat.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday dared Congress or any other political party to bring back Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Modi said statehood will be granted to Jammu and Kashmir.



Addressing a poll rally in Kashmirs Udhampur, Modi said Assembly elections will be held soon in the state. Jammu and Kashmir will get the status of statehood. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLA and your ministers, he said.

The prime minister said he demolished the wall of Article 370 and buried it in the ground. Modi dared the Opposition to restore Article 370. For the sake of power, they had built a wall of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Due to your blessings, Modi demolished the wall of Article 370. I have also buried the debris of that wall in the ground, he said. Modi added Peoples Democratic Party, National Conference and Congress want to take back J&K to the old days. I challenge any political party in India, especially Congress, to announce that they will bring back Article 370. This country won't even look at them, he said. Modi charged, Here political party means of the family, by the family and for the family.

Raking up Ayodhya Ram Mandir, the prime minister charged Congress leaders lived in bungalows and they turned their backs when it came to changing the tent of Ram Lalla. Congress says Ram Mandir is an election issue for the BJP. I want to say that Ram Mandir was never an election issue, nor it will ever become an election issue. The struggle for Ram temple was going on even before the birth of the BJP. When foreign invaders destroyed our temples, the people of India fought to save their religious places. The leaders of Congress and its allies lived in big bungalows but when it came to changing the tent of Ram Lalla, they used to turn their backs, he said.

-with inputs from agencies.
The National Investigation Agency nabbed the mastermind of the Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast Abdul Matheen Taha from West Bengal on Friday. The agency also arrested his co-conspirator who planted the bomb at the Cafe.



The central agency said Adbul Matheen Taha, the blast mastermind, and Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, the accused who planted the bomb at the cafe were traced to their hideout near Kolkata and were apprehended by the NIA team.  Mussavir Hussain Shazib is the accused who placed the IED at the cafe and Abdul Matheen Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of blast and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law, NIA officials said.

The anti-terror agency said, On early morning hours of April 12, NIA were successful in tracing the absconding accused near Kolkata where they were hiding under false identities. This pursuit, successfully accomplished by NIA was ably supported by energetic coordinated action and cooperation between NIA, central intelligence agencies and state police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala police.

NIA identified the key suspects in the case recently and announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information on each of the absconders. According to NIA, both the accused hail from Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district of Karnataka.

A low-intensity blast occurred in Bengalurus famous eatery in Brookefield on March 1. As many as nine people, including seven customers, were injured in the blast. A woman who was sitting near the bag sustained grievous injuries.
The Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast accused, arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on Friday, was given a three-day transit remand. The two prime accused--Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa--in the blast case arrested from West Bengal will be transported to Bengaluru during the transit remand period.

A special public prosecutor representing NIA told ANI that the Special NIA court has granted a three-day transit remand to produce them before the NIA court in Bengaluru.

"There was a long seizure list containing laptops, mobile phones, sim cards and other digital devices in connection with the case. The rest of the investigation will be taking place from Bengaluru," he added.

Medical tests of the two accused nabbed by the team were conducted at a state-run hospital before they were produced in the special court. They were taken to Bankshall court for transit remand.

Purba Medinipur SP Soumyadip Bhattacharya said the duo was arrested in a joint operation by the NIA and West Bengal Police.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib was the one who placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe and Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa was the mastermind, the NIA said in a statement.

NIA identified the key suspects in the case recently and announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information on each of the absconders. According to NIA, both the accused hail from Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district of Karnataka.

A low-intensity blast occurred in Bengalurus famous eatery in Brookefield on March 1. As many as nine people, including seven customers, were injured in the blast. A woman who was sitting near the bag sustained grievous injuries.

Meanwhile, the arrest from West Bengal triggered a war of words between the BJP and the ruling TMC. BJP alleged that TMC has turned West Bengal into a "safe haven for terrorists".

"NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to an ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists," wrote BJP co-incharge of West Bengal Amit Malviya on X.

While addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the accused were arrested due to the prompt action of the West Bengal police.

"Heard one BJP leader saying that Bengal is not safe. The accused were arrested within two hours following a prompt response by police. What about the states where you are in power?" she said.

(With PTI inputs)
The suspense over whether Presidents rule will be imposed in Delhi is getting deeper by the day.

Delhi Education Minister Atishi, on Friday, said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is hatching a plot to impose President's rule in the national capital.

Senior AAP leader Dilip Pandey accused the BJP of trying to create the perception of a Constitutional crisis in Delhi to fulfil their aim of Presidents rule.

The worry for AAP follows three setbacks to the ruling party in the national capital denial of bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Delhi High Court, resignation of Delhi minister Raaj Kumar Anand citing dissatisfaction over party's policy on corruption, and the sacking of Kejriwal's personal assistant (PA) Bibhav Kumar by the Directorate of Vigilance in connection with a 2007 case pending against him where he was accused of obstructing government work.

Clearly, these developments have put AAP on the back footlegally and politicallyat the moment.

The recent setbacks came after the party got a shot in the arm with senior leader Sanjay Singh getting bail in the Delhi excise policy case, providing the much-needed enthusiasm to the cadres. His first remarks after coming out of prison were Jail ke taale tootenge. The party has also been rallying around him since his release. He has become central to the party's political posturing ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The second-rung leaders of the AAP also appear more confident in his presence.

However, the party is going to need much more than that in the coming days to manage political challenges.

The AAPs strategy has been to target the BJP for autocratically trying to finish the AAP and Kejriwal and garner sympathy votes. They have adopted an action and reaction approach.

Even as AAP prepares for the battle ahead, experts are of the view that the call to impose the President's rule is not an easy one to take.

Abhay Dubey, professor, Centre for Study of Developing Societies, said, Once you come to power by imposing the President's rule, you will have to govern the city. The task is far greater than creating hurdles in governance which is happening presently. In 2015 Vidhan Sabha elections, Delhi was under LG's rule and it adversely affected the BJP in the elections.

Dubey said with the Delhi chief minister not resigning from the prison and the AAP not giving in, the ball is now in the BJP's court.

The BJP also knows this. This is the reason why they are treading carefully on the matter. They are treading the path very carefully to make sure that if President's rule is imposed they will have all grounds covered, especially in view of the sympathy factor that Kejriwal's arrest has brought into the picture, said a source. Besides, AAP has been in power for the past 9 years. In such a span of time, one tends to make deep inroads into the administrative machinery. The sacking of Kejriwal's PA is also important from this standpoint. In such a scenario it will not be easy to govern, especially with general elections just around the corner.

The Supreme Court is expected to hear Arvind Kejriwal's plea for release from jail on Monday. Much will depend on the outcome of the apex court's decision.

If Kejriwal remains in prison, it will become increasingly and strategically crucial for the BJP to take a political decision on whether they want to impose the President's rule or not. For now, both the AAP and the BJP are busy taking the battle to the streets.
In a story of compassion and community togetherness, Keralites around the world managed to crowdfund around Rs 34 crore to save a fellow Malayali from the gallows in Saudi Arabia. Kozhikode-native Abdul Raheem, who was sentenced to death in the Middle Eastern country, will now walk free as Good Samaritans joined hands to crowdfund the blood money demanded by a Riyadh-based family.



What happened to Abdul Raheem?

Abdul Raheem, who used to be an autorickshaw driver in Kerala, reached Saudi in the first decade of the century. He was hired by a family in Riyadh to take care of a differently-abled teenager along with driving duties. The boy used to breathe and eat using the help of a device attached to his body.

One day, while driving with the 15-year-old, the boy assaulted Raheem for stopping at a traffic signal. While trying to calm the teenager down and protect himself, Abdul Raheem ended up pushing the medical device on the boy's shoulder unintentionally. As it fell inside the car, the boy became unconscious and passed away, Onmanorama said in a report.

In 2018, Raheem was sentenced to death as the family refused to grant amnesty. The Kerala man's appeals were rejected and the Supreme Court upheld the verdict. However, in 2023, Raheem received a ray of hope as the family reconsidered and decided to accept diya (blood money) instead. They demanded 15 million Saudi riyals, approximately Rs 33.24 crore, which was to be paid within six months from the deal's signing on October 16, 2023.

Happy ending as people join hands

With the deadline fast approaching and Abdul Raheem's fate on the line, people across the stratas of life in Kerala joined hands to crowdsource the money. Until last week, the crowdfunding effort could only manage to find Rs 5 crore. However, as the deadline loomed, an aggressive campaign was launched via social media and the volunteers managed to find the entire amount in just four days' time, Manorama Online said. The representatives of the committee held a press conference on Friday and declared that they finally managed to find the required sum. NRIs, businessmen and political leadership were part of the effort that ensured Raheem's return after 18 years.
A team has been formed to probe the school bus accident that occurred in Haryana on Thursday which saw six children die and 20 wounded. The incident occurred when the school bus crashed into a tree in Haryana's Mahendragarh on Thursday.

A four-member government-appointed panel will investigate the incident. The Education Department has also sent a directive to all private schools seeking an affidavit to prove that their vehicles are adhering to the transport rules.



Haryana education minister Seema Trikha told reporters on Thursday that a show cause notice has been issued to the schools. "Besides, we have taken self-affidavits from the private schools. They also have to provide an affidavit saying that their vehicles functioned according to the transport rules and norms. Third, whoever is driving their vehicles, if they are found drunk, then they (schools) will hold the responsibility." Trikha added.



A show cause notice has also been issued to the private school to explain why it was open on Thursday despite it being a holiday on account of Eid. Mahendragarh Deputy Commissioner Monika Gupta confirmed the private school was open on Eid and the district education officer has sent a proposal to the state government for cancelling its recognition.



The police have arrested three people including the principal and the driver, who was allegedly drunk and driving rashly. Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Assistant Secretary Pradeep Kumar has also been placed under suspension following the incident.



The incident occurred near Unhani village in Kanina around 8.30 am when the bus was carrying around 40 children -- from primary to secondary classes -- to the G L Public School. Police identified the deceased students as Satyam, Yuvraj, Vansh, Ricky, Anshu and Yakush.



Police said the driver, Dharmender, was driving rashly due to which he lost control of the bus, which rammed into a tree and overturned. The medical examination confirmed he was under the influence of alcohol.



An injured student told reporters that the bus was being driven at a high speed when the driver lost control of the vehicle, resulting in the crash. "The driver appeared to be drunk," he said.



According to an FIR, the driver was stinking of alcohol ignored repeated requests by children to drive slowly, and allegedly even threatened them. here was no helper or any woman official in the bus, said the complainant.



The Additional Transport Commissioner (Road Safety) has been directed to conduct a detailed inquiry into the reasons for the accident and find out those responsible, said the officials.



The education department has also decided to hold a meeting so as to ensure that 'Surakshit School Vahan Policy' for safe transportation of children is enforced strictly.



Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP chief J P Nadda, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Randeep Singh Surjewala, AAP leader Sushil Gupta, INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala and JJP leader Dushyant Chautala expressed grief over the accident.


After Nicaragua dragged Germany to the International Court of Justice in The Hague, the country is facing a fresh set of pressure to revoke all arms sales to Israel. A lawsuit in the German domestic courts urged the judges to urgently direct the government to revoke all arms licenses to Israel since the October 7 Hamas attack.

The lawsuit has been issued by four human rights groups on behalf of five named Palestinians who say they are in fear for their lives in Gaza and are suffering a form of collective punishment by Israel.

It is reasonable to believe that the German government violates the arms trade treaty, the Geneva Conventions and its obligations under the genocide convention  agreements that have been ratified by Germany, said a statement from one of the lead litigants, the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR).

Those Palestinians, who filed the cases have lost relatives in the war, their jobs and homes. Germany must stop sending weapons that fuel this war. No other mother should suffer such a terrible loss, said one of the plaintiffs.

Germany is one of Israel's biggest military suppliers, sending 326.5 million euros in equipment and weapons in 2023, according to Economy Ministry data. It is considered to be in second place after the United States, a key supplier of weapons to Israel.

Germany has exported defence equipment worth 203m (174m) to Israel in October 2023, reported The Guardian.

Earlier, Nicaragua approached the ICJ in The Hague and urged Germany to halt arms sales to Israel and resume funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). They had argued that Berlin had violated the 1948 Genocide Convention and international law by supplying Israel while aware there was a risk of genocide.

Germany has denied accusations that it was aiding genocide in Gaza by selling Israel's arms. The country was defending itself in the top UN court brought by Nicaragua.

Germany is doing its utmost to live up to its responsibility vis-a-vis both the Israeli and the Palestinian people," said Tania von Uslar-Gleichen, legal adviser for the German Foreign Ministry.
India is among the 120 countries invited to attend the Ukraine peace conference planned in June to initiate a peace process in Ukraine.

The lakeside Burgenstock resort is expected to host the meet on June 15 and 16. Top government officials from dozens of countries, including India and China, have been invited to deliberate on a plan laid out by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis.



The conference "aims to provide a platform for a high-level dialogue on ways to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine based on international law and the UN Charter".



India's attendance at the meeting was discussed when Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis visited New Delhi on February 5. Cassis met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and sounded out Delhi on the conference and Indias participation, according to The Indian Express.



This was followed up by Zelenskyys phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March and a visit by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to convey an invitation to India to attend the conference, the report added.



However, the details of India's participation will become clear only after the results of the Lok Sabha elections are out on June 4.



Though the US has not confirmed its participation yet, Swiss daily Neue Zrcher Zeitung reported that U.S. President Joe Biden could attend. He is likely to be in Italy during that time for the G7 leaders meeting.



"The first country that we spoke with, after Ukraine of course, was Russia, because a peace process cannot happen without Russia, even if it won't be there for the first meeting," Cassis told reporters Wednesday in the Swiss capital, Bern.



The Swiss government said early talks toward arranging the conference involved the European Union and envoys from the so-called Global South, including Brazil, China, Ethiopia, India, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.



"At its meeting today, the Federal Council took note of the results to date and discussed the next steps. There is currently sufficient international support for a high-level conference to launch the peace process," the federal government in Bern said in a statement.



There are also questions as to whether China will attend the conference. After visiting India, Cassis had gone to Beijing. China's Foreign Ministry has said that Beijing supports a conference that's accepted by both Russia and Ukraine, which isn't the case so far.



However, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday mocked the Ukraine peace talks in Switzerland, warning that Moscow will not accept any enforced plans that ignore its interests.



Putin said that Russia hadn't been invited to join June's talks while pointing at Swiss recognition that a peace process can't happen without Russia. "They aren't inviting us there. Moreover, they think there is nothing for us to do there, but at the same time, they say that's it's impossible to decide anything without us. It would have been funny if it weren't so sad," Putin alleged.



Russia has dismissed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's peace formula requiring Moscow to pull back its troops, pay compensation to Ukraine and face an international tribunal for its action.



Speaking during Thursday's meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow, Putin said that Russia is open for negotiations, but will never accept any schemes that have nothing to do with reality.



(With PTI inputs)


Israel is preparing for a direct attack from Iran in the next 24 to 48 hours, said reports citing US intelligence reports.

While plans to attack are being discussed among Iran's top leadership, no final decision has been taken in this regard, according to The Wall Street Journal. The report, quoting an unnamed person, said Israel is preparing for an attack on either the southern or northern part.



"The strike plans are in front of the Supreme Leader and he is still weighing the political risk," an adviser to Irans Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said. However, it is unclear whether the attack would come directly from Iran or via one of its proxies.



Iran had vowed to retaliate after an airstrike on an Iranian consulate building in the Syrian capital of Damascus killed several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders, including two generals. Though Israel did not take responsibility for the attack, Iran believes it was carried out by the Israeli Defence Forces.



IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari too claimed that Israeli intelligence proved the building was not an embassy, but rather "a military building of Quds forces disguised as a civilian building in Damascus."



The intelligence report has also prompted the US to impose travel restrictions for its employees in Israel. The US embassy said staff had been told not to travel outside the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or Beersheba areas "out of an abundance of caution".



Washington is also reportedly in touch with Israeli authorities. The Pentagon confirmed that Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command which overlooks military operations in the Middle East, was in Israel Thursday.



Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant. Though he reiterated the US's ironclad support for Israels defence, Austin is said to have expressed his disappointment for not notifying the US before the airstrike on the consulate in Damascus. US officials quoted in the report say Austins complaint was based on the fact that the strike increased risks to American forces in the region.



Meanwhile, posts started appearing on social media, simulating Iranian attacks on Israel, including at the nuclear facility in Dimona and the small airport in Haifa.



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government was ready to meet any security challenge, warning that Israel would harm any country that caused it harm. "We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively," he said.


With Iran's retaliation threat looming, Israel's prime minister is gearing up to meet up with top officials including the military as the country prepares for a possible attack.

Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to meet members of his war cabinet, including Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and opposition figure Benny Gantz, reported BBC. There is speculation that Iran would be targeting military buildings in Israel.

The possibility of an Iranian attack has pushed Israel to an edge. Countries including India, the US, Russia and France have issued travel advisories in the wake of the imminent attack.

However, the local authorities were told to prepare for the possibility of an attack, including preparing the public shelters.

As part of preparing for the attack, the Israeli military cancelled home leave for combat troops and strengthened its air defences.

As many as 13 people were killed in the 'Israeli' airstrike on April 1 at the Iranian consulate in the Syrian capital Damascus. Senior Iranian military leaders, including Brig Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander of Iran's elite Quds Force in Syria and Lebanon, were killed in the attack.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has spoken with foreign ministers of China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey to attempt to convince them to use their influence with Iran.

Netanyahu, however, said that his government was prepared "to meet all the security needs of the State of Israel".

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused Israel and said it "must be punished".

Meanwhile, the White House national security spokesperson said that the prospect of an Iranian attack on Israel is "still a viable threat".

We are in constant communication with our Israeli counterparts about making sure that they can defend themselves against those kinds of attacks, Kirby said.

He also added that he cannot speak to what the intelligence picture tells in terms of the size, scale and scope of what the attack might look like. "We are taking this seriously", he summed up.

France on Friday warned its citizens to "imperatively refrain from travel in the coming days to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories". France's foreign minister Stephane Sejourne also urged the family members of French diplomats in Iran to be evacuated.

Australia has urged Iran not to escalate tensions in the Middle East. Australian foreign affairs minister Penny Wong said on Friday that she had spoken with her Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and expressed its deep concerns and urged Iran to "use its influence in the region to promote stability, not contribute to escalation.

The US has restricted the movement of its diplomats in Israel over security fears as well. Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheeva areas until further notice, an embassy notice on Thursday said.
Leading EB5 Regional Centers and Immigration Law firms are showcasing high potential EB5 Projects at the upcoming edition of IREX 2024 on 19-20 April at The St. Regis, Mumbai.



Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Business Wire India



The EB5 Visa Program is an investment-based visa program offered by the US government that offers a path to permanent residency of the U.S. to foreign investors who make significant investments to create at least 10 permanent jobs in the U.S. economy. This program was launched in 1990 that enables foreign investors to obtain a U.S. Green Card by investing in a business or real estate project that creates jobs for the U.S. economy and leads to growth in USA. The New EB5 Investment visa requires a minimum investment of USD 800,000 in an EB5 approved real estate project, fund or business in United States.



India has seen a dramatic increase in the number of investors applying for the EB5 Visa as an alternative to student visas and H-1B visas. According to the latest data, the number of EB5 Visa applications from India has surged from ~750 applications in 2019 to 10000+ applications in 2022.



The EB-5 program has seen a large resurgence of interest from India with the shorter adjudication times based on the new visa set-aside categories. CMB will be presenting on our current EB-5 offerings with our long term partner and borrower Hillwood Development Company. We have a 100% project approval rate with the USCIS and have returned over $1 billion worth of capital to our investors. says Matt Hogan, Vice President of Project Development, CMB Regional Centers.



Leading regional centers such as U.S. Immigration Fund, CMB Regional Centers, EB5 United, FirstPathway Partners are showcasing their EB5 projects and investment options at the upcoming edition of IREX Residency & Citizenship Conclave 2024, Mumbai. The show will have participation from leading EB5 Law firms to answer questions pertaining to the legalities of investing in EB5 for Indian Investors. An EB5 Experts panel discussion will also take place during the Conference on the first day of the show to discuss why investing in the EB5 program is ideal.



According to Brennan Sim, Global Sales, EB5 United, The EB-5 Visa Program has undergone a revitalisation in recent years, and EB5 United is thrilled to present our meticulously structured Rural Priority Processing Projects at the 2024 IREX Conference in Mumbai! Our approach at EB5 United is twofold: to secure a Green Card for each investor and their family, and to ensure the full return of the $800,000 USD investment. With a track record of facilitating over 2,000 Green Cards for our investors and their families, our investment model, focused on the Preservation of Capital has consistently safeguarded our investors' funds across all EB5 United Projects.



The EB-5 investor visa program provides an opportunity for foreign nationals to earn a permanent visa (Green Card) to live and work in the United States providing a path towards US citizenship. Witnessing the growing traction to the US EB5 Investor Visa Program, India is now the second largest market for EB5 in Asia.



"As President of the U.S. Immigration Fund, I am thrilled to showcase our premier EB-5 projects at the upcoming show in Mumbai. With AREA15 in Las Vegas and Summit in New Jersey, we're not just offering investment opportunities; we're inviting you to become part of landmark developments that redefine community and innovation. Our industry-leading loan program, available for a limited time, ensures accessibility and flexibility for our investors. Join us to explore how these ventures can pave the way for your future in the United States." said Nicholas Mastroianni III



The 17th edition of IREX will be held on 19th and 20th April, 2024 at The St. Regis, Mumbai. The show is a unique platform that offers various options and prospects of international real estate investment, residency and citizenship across the world. The conclave will bring together international real estate companies, residency and citizenship consultants, legal consultants, government bodies, property developers and other stakeholders from all over the world, under one roof.



The conclaves focus is on international real estate and immigration by investment and will have participants from over 15 countries viz. Canada, Dubai, Qatar, UK, Scotland, Greece, Portugal, Austria, Germany, Malta, Australia, Caribbean and EB5 companies from USA that offer real estate investment or residency/citizenship by investment options. The projects and programs showcased will have a investment size of INR 2 crores onwards.



IREX is organised by GMN Media Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi. This Conclave is a unique B2C show with a track record of sixteen successful shows since 2015.



Register to attend IREX 2024, Mumbai via https://www.irexindia.com/visitor/register/



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire India and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
Seoul, Apr 12 (AP) A top Chinese official arrived in North Korea and held talks on how to boost their cooperation, North Korea's state media reported on Friday, in the counties' highest-level meeting in about five years.

Zhao Leji, who is chairman of China's National People's Congress and considered the No. 3 official in the ruling Communist Party, arrived in North Korea on Thursday. China's government earlier said he will stay in North Korea until Saturday.

Zhao met his North Korean counterpart Choe Ryong Hae later on Thursday and discussed how to promote exchanges and cooperation on all areas such as politics, economy and culture, the North's official Korean Central News Agency reported.

The two also exchanged views on unspecified regional and international issues of mutual concerns, KCNA said.

Zhao is one of the seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee, the Communist Party's top leadership body headed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Zhao's visit to North Korea marked the first bilateral exchange involving a Chinese Politburo Standing Committee member since the coronavirus pandemic started.

In 2019, the two countries held two summit meetings between Xi and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Observers say North Korea and China are expected to hold a number of exchanges this year to mark the 75th year since they established diplomatic ties.

North Korea has been seeking to boost its cooperation with China and Russia in the face of a standoff with the United States and South Korea over the North's advancing nuclear program.

China, North Korea's biggest aid benefactor, is believed to have long provided clandestine assistance to North Korea in violation of international sanctions.

Kim travelled to Russia in September for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The US, South Korea and others accuse North Korea of supplying conventional weapons for Russia's war in Ukraine in return for advanced weapons technologies and other support.(AP)



RUP

RUP
Melbourne, Apr 12 (The Conversation) The Israeli army used a new artificial intelligence (AI) system to generate lists of tens of thousands of human targets for potential airstrikes in Gaza, according to a report published last week. The report comes from the nonprofit outlet +972 Magazine, which is run by Israeli and Palestinian journalists.

The report cites interviews with six unnamed sources in Israeli intelligence. The sources claim the system, known as Lavender, was used with other AI systems to target and assassinate suspected militants  many in their own homes  causing large numbers of civilian casualties.

According to another report in the Guardian, based on the same sources as the +972 report, one intelligence officer said the system made it easier to carry out large numbers of strikes, because the machine did it coldly.

As militaries around the world race to use AI, these reports show us what it may look like: machine-speed warfare with limited accuracy and little human oversight, with a high cost for civilians.

The Israeli Defence Force denies many of the claims in these reports. In a statement to the Guardian, it said it does not use an artificial intelligence system that identifies terrorist operatives. It said Lavender is not an AI system but simply a database whose purpose is to cross-reference intelligence sources.

But in 2021, the Jerusalem Post reported an intelligence official saying Israel had just won its first AI war  an earlier conflict with Hamas  using a number of machine learning systems to sift through data and produce targets.

In the same year a book called The HumanMachine Team, which outlined a vision of AI-powered warfare, was published under a pseudonym by an author recently revealed to be the head of a key Israeli clandestine intelligence unit.

Last year, another +972 report said Israel also uses an AI system called Habsora to identify potential militant buildings and facilities to bomb. According the report, Habsora generates targets almost automatically, and one former intelligence officer described it as a mass assassination factory.

The recent +972 report also claims a third system, called Wheres Daddy?, monitors targets identified by Lavender and alerts the military when they return home, often to their family.

Several countries are turning to algorithms in search of a military edge. The US militarys Project Maven supplies AI targeting that has been used in the Middle East and Ukraine. China too is rushing to develop AI systems to analyse data, select targets, and aid in decision-making.

Proponents of military AI argue it will enable faster decision-making, greater accuracy and reduced casualties in warfare.

Yet last year, Middle East Eye reported an Israeli intelligence office said having a human review every AI-generated target in Gaza was not feasible at all. Another source told +972 they personally would invest 20 seconds for each target being merely a rubber stamp of approval.

The Israeli Defence Force response to the most recent report says analysts must conduct independent examinations, in which they verify that the identified targets meet the relevant definitions in accordance with international law.

As for accuracy, the latest +972 report claims Lavender automates the process of identification and cross-checking to ensure a potential target is a senior Hamas military figure. According to the report, Lavender loosened the targeting criteria to include lower-ranking personnel and weaker standards of evidence, and made errors in approximately 10 per cent of cases.

The report also claims one Israeli intelligence officer said that due to the Wheres Daddy? system, targets would be bombed in their homes without hesitation, as a first option, leading to civilian casualties. The Israeli army says it outright rejects the claim regarding any policy to kill tens of thousands of people in their homes.

As military use of AI becomes more common, ethical, moral and legal concerns have largely been an afterthought. There are so far no clear, universally accepted or legally binding rules about military AI.

The United Nations has been discussing lethal autonomous weapons systems for more than ten years. These are devices that can make targeting and firing decisions without human input, sometimes known as killer robots. Last year saw some progress.

The UN General Assembly voted in favour of a new draft resolution to ensure algorithms must not be in full control of decisions involving killing. Last October, the US also released a declaration on the responsible military use of AI and autonomy, which has since been endorsed by 50 other states. The first summit on the responsible use of military AI was held last year, too, co-hosted by the Netherlands and the Republic of Korea.

Overall, international rules over the use of military AI are struggling to keep pace with the fervour of states and arms companies for high-tech, AI-enabled warfare.

Some Israeli startups that make AI-enabled products are reportedly making a selling point of their use in Gaza. Yet reporting on the use of AI systems in Gaza suggests how far short AI falls of the dream of precision warfare, instead creating serious humanitarian harms.

The industrial scale at which AI systems like Lavender can generate targets also effectively displaces humans by default in decision-making.

The willingness to accept AI suggestions with barely any human scrutiny also widens the scope of potential targets, inflicting greater harm.

The reports on Lavender and Habsora show us what current military AI is already capable of doing. Future risks of military AI may increase even further.

Chinese military analyst Chen Hanghui has envisioned a future battlefield singularity, for example, in which machines make decisions and take actions at a pace too fast for a human to follow. In this scenario, we are left as little more than spectators or casualties.

A study published earlier this year sounded another warning note. US researchers carried out an experiment in which large language models such as GPT-4 played the role of nations in a wargaming exercise. The models almost inevitably became trapped in arms races and escalated conflict in unpredictable ways, including using nuclear weapons.

The way the world reacts to current uses of military AI  like we are seeing in Gaza  is likely to set a precedent for the future development and use of the technology. (The Conversation)







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Washington, Apr 12 (AP) President Joe Biden said Thursday that U.S. defense commitment was ironclad as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific.

The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad," Biden said as he began three-way talks at the White House with Kishida and Marcos. "As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty.

The White House summit was called amid growing concern about provocative Chinese action in the Pacific, which will be a large focus of the leaders' talks. The White House sees the summit as countering China's attempts at intimidation and sending a message that China is the outlier in the neighborhood, according to an administration official.

President Joe Biden is meeting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday as the three nations use their first-ever trilateral summit to try to show they are in lockstep about countering China's military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific.

The leaders are expected to announce that their coast guards will hold a joint patrol in the Indo-Pacific this year, a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in waters near the disputed South China Sea. The U.S. Coast Guard will also welcome Filipino and Japanese coast guard members onto a U.S. Coast Guard vessel during the patrol for training, according to senior Biden administration officials who insisted on anonymity to preview the talks.

The summit comes a day after Biden held one-on-one talks with Kishida and feted the Japanese premier with a glitzy state dinner at the White House, a diplomatic honor meant to recognize Tokyo's growing clout on the global stage. It was also designed to send a clear signal that the Democratic administration remains determined to build what it calls a latticework of alliances in the Indo-Pacific even as it grapples with the Israel-Hamas war and Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Biden also was hosting Marcos for a private meeting at the White House ahead of the scheduled three-way talks.

Biden on Wednesday reflected on the fact that Japan, once a fierce U.S. enemy, has become one of the closest American partners and an indispensable ally in a shared push for peace, security and prosperity in the Pacific and beyond.

Just a few generations ago, our two nations were locked in a devastating conflict, Biden said with Kishida by his side for a pomp-filled arrival ceremony at the White House. It would have been easy to say we remain adversaries. Instead, we made a far better choice: We became the closest of friends.

Thursday's three-way summit will also have a large economic component with several major U.S.-based companies  including Meta, UPS and Greenbrier Energy  announcing investments in the Philippines, administration officials said. The new deals come after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited Manila last month to announce more than $1 billion in new investment by American companies in the Philippines.

The United States, the United Kingdom and Japan on Wednesday announced joint military exercises in the Indo-Pacific in 2025. That followed the Pentagon revealing earlier this week that the U.S., the U.K. and Australia were considering including Japan in the AUKUS partnership, a grouping launched in 2021 that aims to equip Australia with nuclear-powered and conventionally armed submarines.

Kishida visited Capitol Hill on Thursday for an address to U.S. lawmakers that focused on the need to strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Japan at a time of tension in the Asia-Pacific and skepticism in Congress about U.S. involvement abroad. He offered concern about the undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be.

Administration officials have acknowledged growing concern about provocative Chinese action in the Pacific, which will be a large focus of the leaders' talks. The White House sees the summit as countering China's attempts at intimidation and sending a message that China is "the outlier in the neighborhood, according to an administration official.

Relations between China and the Philippines have been repeatedly tested by skirmishes involving the two nations' coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

The so-called gray-zone harassment by China has included shining military-grade lasers at the Philippine Coast Guard, firing water cannons at vessels and ramming into Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal, which both Manila and Beijing claim. In 1999, Manila intentionally ran the World War IIera ship aground on the shoal, establishing a permanent military presence there.

Biden, in a wide-ranging phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, raised concerns about China's operations in the South China Sea, including efforts to impede the Philippines, which the U.S. is treaty-obligated to defend, from resupplying its forces on the Second Thomas Shoal.

The main intent of this trilateral agreement is for us to be able to continue to flourish, to be able to help one another, and ... to keep the peace in the South China Sea and the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, Marcos told reporters before departing for Washington on Wednesday.

Chinese officials have bristled at criticism over their action in the South China Sea and blamed the U.S. for exacerbating tensions.

No one should violate China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and China remains steadfast in safeguarding our lawful rights," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Thursday.

Biden has made improving relations with the Philippines a priority since Marcos became the country's president in June 2022. The relationship has had ups and downs over the years and was in a difficult place when Marcos took office. Human rights groups said Marcos' predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.

Marcos, the son and namesake of the country's former dictator, as a candidate said he would look to pursue closer ties with China. But he's increasingly drifted toward Washington amid concerns about China's coercive action.

Biden hosted him for talks at the White House last year, the first Washington visit by a Philippine president in more than a decade. Biden also met him on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly soon after Marcos took office, and dispatched Vice President Kamala Harris to Manila in 2022 to meet him.

Last year, the Philippines agreed to give the U.S. access to four more bases on the islands. (AP) ANB

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Washington, Apr 12 (PTI) US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will travel to India next week to compare notes on the Indo-Pacific, talk about technology cooperation and also meet his counterpart Ajit Doval and others to take the US-India relationship to the next level.

Sullivan is likely to meet Doval for the annual review meeting for the initiative on critical and emerging technologies (iCET) that was postponed due to the cancellation of his visit in February due to other global commitments.

The India visit by a close Biden aide comes soon after Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra who is in the US for a series of meetings with senior officials from the US government and interacting with industry leaders to advance bilateral cooperation in areas such as defence and technology.

Sullivan would be in India next week to celebrate elements of our bilateral relationship, compare notes on the Indo-Pacific, and also talk about the next steps in technology cooperation. We think these are all effective, prudent elements of taking the US-India relationship to the next level, a senior White House administration official said without announcing the date of his visit.

He was addressing a background press call on Wednesday, previewing the official visit of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, who is on a US trip beginning April 9.

The senior administration official was asked how the US was thinking of India within the context of the deepening military, defence, and security partnership that it has with treaty allies in East Asia and if the US looks at India as part of this network.

I think if you ask the President, one of the things that hes proudest of is his efforts to build a stronger relationship between the United States and India. And I do believe, both in the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean and on key issues like technology, the United States and India are working more closely together than ever before, the official said.

And I would simply say that I think the US-India relationship is trending substantially in a positive direction and that our level of engagement across every possible vector  security, intelligence, technology, people-to-people  has excelled, he added.

Incidentally, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has told lawmakers that by bolstering the Indian military's capabilities, the two nations can work together to uphold a more stable balance of power across the wider Indo-Pacific region.

He also told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee during a Congressional hearing this week on the annual budget of the Department of Defence that the militaries of the US and India are accelerating operational activities to boost maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

On Wednesday, the senior administration official further said, Not only have our relations with India improved in a bilateral context, but it is also the case that Indias partnership with other countries, working with us and then working just independently, has also stepped up substantially. I would say, in many respects, engagement with India is some of the most  the most desired kinds of engagements on the global stage, and weve seen this with a variety of key players.

The official admitted that in the past, on both sides, there perhaps had been some ambivalence or some uncertainty. I see very little of that now.

I see leaders on both sides who are all in on the promise and prospects of the other, recognise the potential of this relationship that is deeply supported by an activist diaspora community here, and technology and other firms who understand the potential of India, he added.

And I would just simply say that I see the engagement with India as central to everything that were seeking to do on the global stage. And I would simply say that I think, in many respects, it will be our most important bilateral partnership heading into the latter parts of the 21st century,
Dakar, Apr 12 (AP) State television in Niger has broadcast footage of Russian military trainers arriving in the country aboard a plane equipped with military supplies to boost its air defences amid deteriorating relations between Niger and the US.

Two Russian trainers were filmed in front of the plane wearing military uniforms, caps and face coverings. The plane arrived Wednesday night, the report said, and carried military supplies to help Niger improve its air defences.

We are here to train the Nigerian army to use the military equipment that is here, one of the Russian trainers said in French in Thursday's broadcast. We are here to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.

Until recently, Washington considered Niger a key partner and ally in a region swept by attempted coups in recent years.

A US airbase was established as the heart of Niger's counter insurgency operations in the sub-Saharan region known as the Sahel. Since 2012, the region has been gripped by a worsening insurgency fought by groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State group.

The US invested heavily in training Niger's forces to beat back the insurgency that has ravaged the country and its neighbours, But last summer, some of those elite US-trained forces took part in a coup that ousted the elected president.

US relations with Niger took a further downturn last month when the junta announced on state television the flights from its airbase were illegal and that it no longer recognised the American military presence in the country. The junta criticised the US for trying to force it to choose between partners, warning them against cooperating with Russia and Iran.

Niamey has yet to order American troops out, US officials have said.

The broadcast said the arrival of Russian trainers followed a call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the country's military leaders in March. Niger's military leaders are seeking to diversify their partnerships and achieve greater sovereignty, the broadcast said. (AP) SCY

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London, Apr 12 (PTI) An Indian-origin former manager of a Post Office in England wrongly jailed while pregnant has rejected the apology of a former boss of the government-owned entity during an ongoing public inquiry into the accounting scandal.

Seema Misra, now 47, had her conviction quashed in April 2021 as the Court of Appeal ruled that she had been wrongly imprisoned over 12 years ago after being accused of stealing GBP 75,000 from her Post Office branch in Surrey where she was the sub-postmistress.

During Thursdays hearings for the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry in London, former Post Office Managing Director David Smith apologised for a congratulatory email he sent after Misras conviction.

It was intended to be a congratulatory email to the team, knowing that they had worked hard on the case, Smith said in his written evidence to the inquiry.

However, knowing what I do now, it is evident that my email would have caused Seema Misra and her family substantial distress to read and I would like to apologise for that Even if this had been a correct conviction, I would never think that it was brilliant news for a pregnant woman to go to prison and I am hugely apologetic that my email can be read as such, he said.

However, seeing this email in the light of what I know now, I understand the anger and the upset that it will have caused and sincerely apologise for that, he added.

But, speaking to reporters later, Misra rejected the apology which comes many years after her ordeal.

"I was eight weeks pregnant  they need to apologise to my youngest son. It was terrible. I haven't accepted the apologies," Misra told the BBC.

"We had my conviction overturned, nobody came at that time to apologise. And now they just suddenly realised that when they have to appear in a public inquiry, they have to apologise," she said.

Misra was sent to Bronzefield prison in south-east England and served four-and-a-half months, later giving birth to her second son wearing an electronic tag.

Smith told the inquiry that Misra had been used as a "test case" and the success of the case led to more confidence in the faulty Horizon IT accounting system.

"How can they do a test on a human being? I'm a living creature. I heard that my case had been used as a test case before. But hearing it again and again, it's just annoying. It makes me more and more angry, to be honest," Misra told Sky News concerning his evidence.

The UK government, which formally owns Post Office Ltd, has paid out millions in compensation to hundreds of sub-postmasters  many of them of Indian heritage  impacted by the faulty Horizon software.

Earlier this year, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged action in the historic scandal which wrongly accused sub-postmasters of fraud.

Last month, a new law tabled in Parliament introduced the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill, a blanket exoneration to quash convictions brought about by erroneous Horizon evidence. A public inquiry in the case, underway in a phased manner, is expected to conclude in July.

The controversial Horizon system, developed by the Japanese company Fujitsu, was first rolled out in 1999 to some post offices for variable tasks, including accounting and stocktaking. However, it appeared to have significant bugs, which could cause the system to misreport, sometimes involving large sums as in the case of these sub-postmasters.
Warsaw (Poland), Apr 12 (AP) Poland's government said on Friday the killing of a Polish aid worker by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza was murder and demands support from Israel in its own investigation and for the case to be brought before an independent court in Israel.

Poland's deputy foreign minister, Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski, was addressing lawmakers in parliament on the April 1 death of Damian Sobol, 35, and six other workers of the World Central Kitchen charity, who were bringing food to the needy in Gaza.

He called the killings shocking and disturbing and said Poland expects Israel's full cooperation in the murder investigation opened by Polish prosecutors in Przemysl, Sobol's hometown.

In the debate in parliament, many lawmakers said the killings should be considered a war crime.

Bartoszewski said Poland was working with other countries whose citizens were killed in the shelling  Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States  to jointly press for a detailed investigation into how cars marked as humanitarian convoy could have become targets of repeated shelling by the Israeli army.

He stressed that all international rule of defense were violated by that attack.

He said that the dismissals and disciplinary measures applied to the officers responsible for the killings were inadequate and demanded that the case be tried by an independent court in Israel.

He stressed that Poland is also demanding compensation to Sobol's family. Sobol's body has been brought to Poland, Bartoszewski said. (AP) PY

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Islamabad, Apr 12 (PTI) Jailed former premier Imran Khans beleaguered Tehreek-e-Insaf party would launch a protest movement against alleged rigging in the February 8 general elections from Saturday, a senior party leader said on Friday.

Omar Ayub Khan, leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, said the Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, under the umbrella of a grand opposition alliance, would also protest for the restoration of the Constitution and democracy in the country, Geo News reported.

Ayub Khan, who incidentally was also the joint candidate who lost to Imran Khans rival Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) partys Shehbaz Sharif in the prime ministerial election last month, said the protest movement would be initiated from Balochistan and later be expanded countrywide.

Earlier this month, the PTI had announced launching a countrywide movement against alleged rigging in general elections after Eid-ul-Fitr from Balochistan, the report said.

PTI leader Asad Qaiser, while addressing the media in Rawalpindi after meeting 71-year-old Khan in Adiala Jail said the first rally would be held in Balochistans Pishin district.

The Imran Khan-founded party has alleged that the incumbent rulers stole their mandate in the elections and the results were changed in Form 47s to benefit the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

Form 45 is collected from polling stations in a constituency while Form 47 shows the consolidated result of a constituency.

Last week, citing religious reasons, the PTI announced cancelling a rally that was scheduled to be held in Islamabad to demand the release of the party founder, who has been incarcerated since August last year after his conviction in various cases.

After the general elections, the PTI claimed that at least 85 seats won by it in Parliament were snatched by rigging and said the outcome of Pakistan's elections would be remembered due to the biggest voter fraud in the countrys history against it and its successful candidates.

In February, PTI-backed independent candidates, who won the February 8 elections, joined the Sunni Ittehad Council.

The Sunni Ittehad Council is an alliance of Islamic political and religious parties in the Muslim-majority country which represents followers of the school of Sunni Islam.
Madrid, Apr 12 (AP) British and Spanish foreign ministers said a new round of talks held on Friday over the status of the disputed territory of Gibraltar following Britain's exit from the European Union were productive and significant progress was made.

The meeting was between Spain's Jose Manuel Albares, Britain's David Cameron and European Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic in Brussels. Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo also attended. It was the first time representatives from the four areas had come together for talks on the issue.

In a statement after the meeting, the parties said "discussions took place in a constructive atmosphere, with significant progress achieved.

General political lines have been agreed (on), including on airport, goods and mobility. Negotiations will continue over the coming weeks to conclude the EU-UK Agreement, it added.

All sides are eager to clinch a deal before European elections in June.

Britain left the European Union in 2020 with the relationship between Gibraltar and the bloc unresolved. Talks on a deal to ensure people and goods can keep flowing over the Gibraltar-Spain border have made halting progress in the 19 rounds of negotiations so far, but both Spanish and UK officials have recently expressed optimism about a deal.

In Britain's 2016 Brexit referendum, 96 per cent of voters in Gibraltar supported remaining in the EU. The tiny territory on Spain's southern tip depends greatly on access to the EU market for its 34,000 inhabitants.

Gibraltar was ceded to Britain in 1713, but Spain has maintained its sovereignty claim ever since. Relations concerning the Rock, as it is popularly referred to in English, have had their ups and downs over the centuries.

A major sticking point has been who controls Gibraltar's airport, which under the proposed free-movement deal would be an external border of the EU. The UK and Gibraltar have resisted Spain's insistence that Spanish border officials be based at the airport, which is also home to a Royal Air Force base.

The British Foreign Office said on Thursday that while it did not expect a final agreement on Friday, "getting senior political figures from the UK, European Commission, Spain and Gibraltar in one room is significant". (AP) PY

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Jerusalem, Apr 12 (AP) Two Palestinians were killed early Friday in confrontations with Israeli forces in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Palestinian medics and the military said. The Palestine Red Crescent Society confirmed the two deaths and said three people were wounded, including one who sustained serious injuries.

The Islamic militant group Hamas said one of those killed was a local commander. Palestinian health officials say 460 Palestinians, including several dozen children and teens, have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Six months of fighting in Gaza have pushed the tiny Palestinian territory into a humanitarian crisis, leaving more than 1 million people on the brink of starvation. Israel said Friday it had opened a new crossing for aid trucks into hard-hit northern Gaza as ramps up aid deliveries to the besieged enclave. However, the UN says the surge of aid is not being felt in Gaza because difficulties persist in distributing it.

Israeli bombardments and ground offensives in Gaza have killed more than 33,600 Palestinians and wounded over 76,200, the Health Ministry says. The ministry doesn't differentiate between civilians and combatants in its tally, but says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

The war started on October 7 when Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis in a surprise attack, mostly civilians. Around 250 people hostage were also taken hostage by Palestinian militants.



Currently:

 Israel promised to ramp up aid to Gaza dramatically, but days later there are few signs of any impact.

 Poland says aid worker's killing in Gaza should be brought before Israeli court.

 Muslim leaders are out of words' as they tire of the White House outreach on the war in Gaza.

 An Israeli airstrike in Gaza kills 3 sons and 4 grandchildren of Hamas' top leader.



Here's the latest:



ISRAEL OPENS NEW AID TRUCK CROSSING INTO NORTH GAZA

JERUSALEM  Israel said Friday it had opened a new crossing for aid trucks into northern Gaza as its efforts to ramp up aid to the besieged enclave came under criticism from a top United Nations official.

Israel, facing mounting US pressure to improve the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, has pledged this week to dramatically increase aid to the strip.

The military said that trucks carrying food passed the newly opened northern crossing Thursday. It said the aid was inspected at its Kerem Shalom crossing near the Egyptian border before being transported inside Israel to the crossing. The new system is meant as an alternative to the challenging and dangerous process of transporting aid from northern to southern Gaza.

In the coming days, Israel says it will also open its port in the southern city of Ashdod for more aid shipments. Most aid is currently delivered by land from neighbouring Egypt.

COGAT, the Israeli military body in charge of Palestinian civilian affairs, said Friday it has sent 1,903 trucks into Gaza over the last week, with 221 truckloads of aid reaching the north over that same timeframe.

However, the UN says the surge of aid is not being felt in Gaza because difficulties persist in distributing the aid.

It's very easy for Israel to say, 'We've sent you 1,000 trucks so please deliver them inside Gaza', said Jamie McGoldrick, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories.

The UN says aid distribution within Gaza is dangerous and mired in long holdups at inspection checkpoints. Bringing aid to the north of the territory  where the UN says famine is near  is particularly difficult, McGoldrick said, with only one or two roads north open at a given time.

Several aid organizations have suspended their convoys north after an Israeli strike on a World Central Kitchen aid mission killed seven aid workers.



BRITISH-PALESTINIAN SURGEON SAYS GERMANY BLOCKED HIM FROM ENTERING COUNTRY TO JOIN PRO-PALESTINIAN CONFERENCE

BERLIN  A prominent British-Palestinian surgeon who volunteered in Gaza hospitals during the first weeks of the Israel-Hamas war said he was denied entry into Germany on Friday, where he was due to take part in a pro-Palestinian conference.

Dr Ghassan Abu Sitta said he arrived at Berlin airport on Friday morning before being stopped at passport control where he was held for several hours and then told he had to return to the UK.

Police at the airport said he was refused entry due to the safety of the people at the conference and public order, Abu Sitta told The Associated Press by phone.

The ban will last until Sunday, covering the duration of the Berlin conference he was to attend, he said. The gathering, entitled the Palestine Congress, was to discuss a range of topics including German arms shipments to Israel and solidarity with what organizers called the Palestinian struggle.

Police at Berlin airport could not immediately be reached for comment.

Germany has traditionally held a staunchly pro-Israel position, and during the Gaza war emerged as one of Israel's fiercest supporters, even amid growing international outrage over the soaring Palestinian death toll.

German authorities have repeatedly clamped down on displays of support for Palestinians.

Abu Sitta has worked during multiple conflicts in the Palestinian territories, beginning in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian uprising. He has also worked in other conflict zones, including in Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

He spent 44 days in Gaza hospitals during the current war as a volunteer for Doctors Without Borders.

Throughout his most-recent stint in Gaza, he gave numerous interviews to international media outlets about the deteriorating humanitarian and health situation in the besieged enclave.



EUROPEAN COUNCIL SANCTIONS THREE PALESTINIAN MILITANT GROUPS OVER THEIR ROLE IN OCTOBER 7 ATTACKS

BRUSSELS, Belgium  The European Council has slapped sanctions on three Palestinian militant organizations, citing their role in the brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks on October 7 against Israel.

The sanctions will freeze the groups' assets and prohibit anyone from giving funding or economic resources to the groups or for their benefit, either directly or indirectly, the council said in a statement Friday.

The newly sanctioned groups are Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, as well as Hamas' elite Nukhba forces and the Al-Quds Brigades, the military arm of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Hamas and Islamic Jihad entered southern Israel on October 7, killing more than 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages.

Hamas and other armed groups must immediately grant humanitarian access to all remaining hostages, the European Council statement said.

The US State Department, the European Union and other Western countries already consider Hamas and Islamic Jihad as terrorist groups. The European Council is the body that brings together the 28 EU countries' leaders.



BODIES OF 89 PEOPLE KILLED IN GAZA TAKEN TO HOSPITALS, OFFICIALS SAY

RAFAH, Gaza Strip  Gaza health officials said Friday that 89 bodies were taken to hospitals over the past 24 hours, raising the Palestinian death toll in the territory to 33,634 since the Israel-Hamas war erupted more than six months ago.

The total number of wounded has reached 76,214, said the ministry, which is part of a Hamas government that continues to operate in some parts of Gaza.

The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and militants in its count, but says that two-thirds of the dead are women and children. It says many bodies across devastated Gaza remain under the rubble.

Israel's military says it has killed thousands of Hamas militants since the start of the war. The war was triggered by Hamas' October 7 attack on southern Israel in which the militants killed about 1,200 people and took some 250 hostages.



PALESTINIANS ARE KILLED IN THE ISRAELI-OCCUPIED WEST BANK

JERUSALEM  Two Palestinians were killed early Friday in confrontations with Israeli forces in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Palestinian medics and the military said. The Islamic militant group Hamas said one of those killed was a local commander.

The raid took place in the town of Tubas and the adjacent refugee camp of al-Faraa. The Palestine Red Crescent Society confirmed the two deaths and said three people were wounded, including one who sustained serious injuries.

The military said the target of the raid was Mohammed Daraghmeh, a local Hamas commander. It said Daraghmeh was killed in a shootout with Israeli soldiers who discovered weapons in his car. The army alleged that Daraghmeh was planning attacks on Israeli targets, but provided no evidence.

In subsequent confrontations between soldiers and armed Palestinians, a second Palestinian was killed Friday. The army said assailants also hurled explosives at soldiers.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said one of its ambulances was fired at by Israeli forces as medics were trying to treat one of the wounded.

Palestinian health officials say 460 Palestinians, including several dozen children and teens, have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, triggered by a deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7.

Most were killed in confrontations with Israeli forces who have stepped up raids in the West Bank in recent months, targeting suspected militants. Several other Palestinians have been killed in attacks by militant Israeli settlers.



FRANCE WARNS CITIZENS AGAINST TRAVELING TO ISRAEL, IRAN, LEBANON, AND PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

PARIS  France's foreign ministry has warned citizens against traveling to Israel, Palestinian territories, Iran and Lebanon in the coming days due to a heightened risk of military escalation in the Middle East.

Iran has been threatening to avenge the deaths of two of its generals killed in an airstrike in the Syrian capital, Damascus, last week. Tehran blames Israel for the strike, although Israel has not commented. Israel has called up additional defense units in anticipation of an attack by either Iran or the many proxy groups it supports in the region.

Faced with risks of a military escalation, the French foreign ministry called on citizens in a statement Friday to completely refrain from traveling to the three Middle Eastern countries and the Palestinian territories.

The ministry also ordered families of diplomats in Tehran to return to France and suspended all foreign ministry sanctioned missions to Israel, Lebanon, Iran and the Palestinian territories after a crisis meeting Friday, the statement said.



SPAIN AND NORWAY SUPPORT RECOGNIZING A PALESTINIAN STATE

COPENHAGEN, Denmark  Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that Spain has publicly committed to recognizing Palestine as a state as soon as possible when the conditions are appropriate and in a way that can have the most positive impact to the peace process.

Sanchez was in the Norwegian capital, Oslo, as part of a tour that also includes Ireland, to push for peace in Gaza and seek support for recognition of Palestine. His Norwegian counterpart, Jonas Gahr Store, said that Norway stands ready to recognize the state of Palestine and to recognize this place, appropriate place in the United Nations.

The traditional position of the United States and European allies had been that recognition of a Palestinian state should come at the end of successful negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.

However, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, some European leaders have called for such recognition as an interim step that would create a political horizon for Palestinians, especially at a time when Israel's right-wing government is adamantly opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state.

Sanchez has been one of the most vocal advocates of early recognition. (AP) NPK

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Washington, Apr 12 (PTI) The United States' defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines are "ironclad", US President Joe Biden said as he launched a new trilateral partnership in the Indo-Pacific among the nations.

In a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida here on Thursday, Biden also asserted that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or its armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke "our mutual defence treaty".

The US-Japan-Philippines trilateral comes after the creation of groupings in the Indo-Pacific, starting with the Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia and Japan, and the AUKUS consisting of Australia, the US and the UK, amid increasing concerns over China's military muscle-flexing in the region.

The US president said that "a great deal of history in our world will be written in the Indo-Pacific over the coming years".

"Today we commit to writing that story in the future together to build an Indo-Pacific that is free, open, prosperous and secure for all," Biden said as he described the US, Japan and the Philippines as "three allies, three steadfast partners and three proud democracies".

Biden said among the key areas where the countries are deepening ties are "first, technology and clean energy for securing our semiconductor supply chain".

"From securing our semiconductor supply chain to expanding trusted telecommunications in the Philippines, to building a clean energy workforce, to expanding our cooperation across the entire board," the US president said.

"Second, we are deepening our maritime and security ties. I want to be clear, the United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad. As I've said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty," he said.

Biden also announced launching an economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G-7's partnership for global infrastructure and investment.

"This is the first corridor in the Indo-Pacific. It means more jobs for people across the entire region. It means more investment and sectors critical to our future clean energy, ports, railroads, agriculture, and much more," he said.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida said in the midst of the compound crisis faced by the global community, multi-layered cooperation between allies and like-minded countries is essential if they are to maintain and bolster a free and open international order based on the rule of law.

"Today's meeting will make history as an occasion that significantly pushed forward such an initiative. Japan, the US, and the Philippines are maritime nations connected by the Pacific Ocean and our natural partners. We share fundamental values and principles, and have supported regional economic development," he said.

In his remarks, Philippine President Marcos said, "We meet today as friends and partners bound by a shared vision and pursuit of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific."

It is a partnership born not out of convenience, nor of expediency, but as a natural progression of a deepening relation and robust cooperation amongst the three countries, linked by a profound respect for democracy, good governance and the rule of law, he said.

"Today's historic summit is a culmination of several preparatory engagements between our foreign ministries, our national security advisors, and our vice ministers, as well as the conduct of trilateral maritime exercises and joint development cooperation. But this meeting can be just a beginning," he said.

Facing the complex challenges of the present-time requires concerted efforts on everyone's part, a dedication to a common purpose and an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order, Marcos said.

"This is a meeting that looks ahead as we deepen our ties and enhance our coordination. We seek to identify ways of growing our economies and making them more resilient, climate-proofing our cities and our societies, sustaining our development progress and forging a peaceful world for the next generation," he said.

The leaders in a joint statement issued later said the "historic" summit is the culmination of decades of partnership and builds on the recent momentum of the three governments' trilateral efforts.

"Our three nations share a firm commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, inclusive and resilient. We welcome coordination and cooperation with a wide range of partners who share these goals. In that spirit, we affirm our unwavering support for ASEAN centrality and unity, and the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific," the joint statement said.

"We underscore our support for Pacific Island countries and intend to transparently and effectively work in partnership with the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) to support the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent," it said. The leaders welcomed efforts to support a peaceful and stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, including from the Quad, the AUKUS and the US-Japan-Republic of Korea trilateral framework, according to the statement.
Mumbai, Apr 12 (PTI) A pendant with a QR code helped police reunite a mentally unwell 12-year-old boy with his parents, a Mumbai police official said on Friday.

The child was spotted wandering in Colaba in the southern part of the city on Thursday afternoon, he said.

"The child was not able to tell anything cohesively to people who approached him after realising he may be lost and in distress. One of them brought him to a policeman. An alert about a missing person was sent to all police stations but in vain," the official said.

"One of the police personnel found a pendant around the child's neck. He found a QR (quick response) code inside, which when scanned revealed a phone number. It belonged to an NGO that works for mentally unwell children," he said.

A functionary of the NGO told police the child was a resident of Worli and his parents were looking for him since morning, the official added.

"The child was reunited with his father at the police station some time later. It was great relief to us that we could get the child safely back with his parents," the official said.
Palghar, Apr 12 (PTI) A 44-year-old Nigerian national was arrested with cocaine and mephedrone worth Rs 57.5 lakh in Maharashtra's Palghar district on Friday, police said.

Based on a tip-off, the police raided a residential building in the Pragati Nagar area of Nalla Sopara in Vasai and apprehended the accused, Eze Francis Ana, an official from Tulinj police station said.



At least 133 gm of cocaine worth Rs 13.3 lakh and 442 gm of mephedrone (MD) worth Rs 44.2 lakh were seized in the raid, he said.

A case under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act has been registered against the accused, and a probe is underway to find out where the contraband was sourced from.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday arrested two accused, including the mastermind, in Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, officials said.

Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa were traced to their hideout near Kolkata and apprehended by an NIA team, they said.

Shazib was the one who placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe and Taahaa was the mastermind behind the planning and execution of the blast, the officials said.

"In the morning hours of April 12, 2024, NIA was successful in tracing the absconding accused near Kolkata where they were hiding under false identities," an official said.

This pursuit was supported by coordinated action and cooperation among the NIA, central intelligence agencies and the state police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka and Kerala, the official added.

The NIA had last month announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh each for information leading to the arrest of these two accused.

An IED explosion rocked the cafe located on ITPL Road, Brookefield, Bengaluru, on March 1.

The NIA took over the probe on March 3.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) President Droupadi Murmu on Friday condoled the passing away of ex-Odisha minister Kamala Das and extended condolences to her family members.

Das died at a hospital in Cuttack in the early hours of Friday, her family said. He was 79.

"Saddened by the demise of senior political leader Dr. Kamala Das, who served as minister in Odisha government. In her long public career, she continuously worked for the progress of Odisha and its people. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family members and followers," Murmu said in a post on X.

Das was first elected as an MLA in 1990 from the Bhograi seat under Balasore district in Odisha on a Janata Dal ticket. She was re-elected in 1995, and then again in 2000 as a Biju Janata Dal (BJD) candidate.

She served as Minister of State for Education & Youth Services and for Health & Family Welfare in the Biju Patnaik government.

Das had also been the Woman and Child Development Minister in the Naveen Patnaik government.

She was dropped as a minister in 2001. Following that, Das switched over to the Congress. She later returned to the BJD in 2014.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Friday a "privileged pedigree" is resisting the rule of law that makes them accountable, as he slammed those who take to streets when legal process is set in motion against them.

He said the last few years have witnessed a transformational change that has strengthened the concept of equality before law.

"Everyone is accountable to law. There was a time when some thought they were beyond the reach of law," he said, addressing a book release event at his official residence here.

It was the first event to have taken place after Dhankhar moved to the newly built 'Vice President's Enclave' near North Block recently.

One direct outcome, the vice president said, of equality before law is that inequalities have been "contained".

"Privileged pedigree have been compulsorily made to be accountable to the rule of law. There is bound to be resistance to it, because when people are used to be treated very differently, when they are assured by upbringing or otherwise that they have some kind of immunity to law," he said.

He said when law takes its course, people should go for legal remedies. "Unfortunately, when legal process is set in motion, I don't understand why people should take to streets ... We must not take to streets," he said.

He said the Indian judicial system is robust, efficient and fearless and those who feel they have been wronged should approach courts.

"No one is above the law. Everyone is amenable to law, accountable to law. You cannot get away from law. If in a society, when someone gets away by engaging in transgression of law, he is a sole beneficiary but the entire society suffers," he said.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) Top Congress leaders will discuss and decide on the party candidates from Punjab, Haryana, Bihar and Delhi at a meeting of the central election committee to be held on Saturday evening.

The central election committee chaired by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge is likely to meet at 4 pm on Saturday.

Sources said the meeting will discuss the candidates and decide on them soon after the screening committees of Punjab, Haryana and Bihar held separate meetings and recommended the list of candidates for the states for the Lok Sabha polls.

AICC in-charge for Haryana and Delhi, Deepak Babaria, said after the screening committee for Haryana that their discussions are over and the candidates on all nine Lok Sabha seats were discussed.

He said the list of recommended candidates will be sent to the central election committee (CEC) now and the candidates will be made public by tomorrow. He added that on the majority seats, single names of candidates have been recommended.

Babaria said while the name of Kumari Selja is there for consideration, former chief minister Bhupendra Singh Hooda will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and will lead the party in the state. However, his son Deepinder Singh Hooda will contest.

"It will be a balanced list, which will represent all sections including women and youth. As the Congress party works with inclusiveness, the party's list will be all inclusive and we feel that we will win all the 10 seats," he told reporters after the meeting.

"The proposed list recommended by the screening committee has been prepared with single names and in all probability all the seats will be taken up before the central election committee which will meet on Saturday evening," he said.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) The Indian missions in the US have stepped up their student-outreach initiatives in view of incidents of deaths of Indian students in that country in recent months.

"There have been some unfortunate incidents resulting in the death of Indian students in the US. These cases are under investigation," external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

"The embassy and consulates have extended all possible assistance. Such cases have been appropriately taken up with the US authorities to seek justice," he said at his weekly media briefing.

A 25-year-old Indian student who had been missing since last month was found dead in the US city of Cleveland this week.

Last week, an Indian student in Ohio, Uma Satya Sai Gadde, died and police are investigating the case.

"We have also stepped-up our student outreach to provide guidance and to reassure them of the support of the embassy and consulates at all times," Jaiswal said.

Since January, 10-odd Indian students have died in the US, he suggested.

Jaiswal said there were cases of suicide as well as of mental-illness related issues.

"That is why we want to provide comfort to the students," he said.
Palakkad (Kerala), Apr 12 (PTI) The Congress on Friday attacked the ruling Left front in Kerala on various issues, including the CAA and the fielding of a candidate against Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad, as the state moves closer to the Lok Sabha polls on April 26.





Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala said that as the Left front is a part of the INDIA bloc, it should not have fielded a candidate against Gandhi in Wayanad, where he is a sitting MP, as he is the face of the alliance.







"Everywhere else the CPI(M) is campaigning along with the Congress and seeking votes in the name of Rahul Gandhi, but Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan criticises him.







"They (CPIM) should have supported him (Rahul Gandhi). Some political decency should have been shown since he is the face of the alliance," Chennithala said at a press conference here.







The Congress leader also hit back at Vijayan for his repetitive allegation that the grand old party has been silent on the controversial citizenship law, CAA, by accusing the Marxist veteran of using the legislation to attract Muslim votes in the state.







Chennithala said that while Vijayan uses the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to attract Muslim votes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is using it to woo Hindu electors in the state. "Both are trying to create communal polarisation. They both are trying to divide people on communal lines. So, what is the difference between the two?"





With regard to Vijayan's claim that the Congress manifesto is also silent on the CAA, Chennithala said that it clearly states that all "black laws" brought by the NDA government in the past 10 years would be repealed or withdrawn when the INDIA bloc comes to power.







"It includes the CAA, the Uniform Civil Code and the abrogation of Article 370. If we come to power, these will be withdrawn in the very first cabinet meeting," he asserted.







Chennithala also said that Vijayan's government had lodged cases against those who had participated in the anti-CAA protests in the state and alleged that many of them were withdrawn only with an eye on the Lok Sabha polls.







He alleged that this indicates a lack of sincerity on behalf of the Kerala CM and CPI(M) on the CAA issue.







The Congress leader also blamed former state finance minister Thomas Isaac, who is presently contesting in the Lok Sabha polls from the Pathanamthitta constituency, for Kerala's financial problems.







Chennithala said that unnecessary excessive borrowings and extravagant expenditure carried out during Isaac's tenure as minister was the main cause of financial woes of the state.







The Kerala government has been blaming the Centre's restrictive policies and alleged neglect towards the state for its financial problems. The state government has also moved the Supreme Court over the issue.
I challenge any political party, especially Congress, to get back Article 370. They cannot do it: PM Modi at Udhampur rally.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) Former Rajya Sabha MP Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar on Friday complained to the chief election commissioner (CEC) that the ruling YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh was allegedly tapping the phone of TDPs national general secretary Nara Lokesh using the Pegasus software.

Apple has issued a security alert to Nara Lokesh. He had received a similar alert in March as well, he said in a letter written to the CEC.

Kumar said "some police officers at the instance of the state government" are allegedly engaged in "unauthorised phone tapping".

He alleged the state's Director General of Police Rajendranath Reddy and Intelligence Chief PSR Anjaneyulu have become "lackeys of the YSRCP and are resorting to unethical and unlawful acts to jeopardise the prospects of the NDA alliance partners in the ensuing elections...".

"It is high time that the ECI, New Delhi, initiate action against these officers and appoint neutral and reputed officers in their position and ensure free and fair elections," Kumar added.

Elections to the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state are scheduled on May 13.
New Delhi, Apr 12 (PTI) A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking directions to the Election Commission to curb "arbitrary and mala fide" exercise of discretion by the returning officers in rejecting the nomination papers of the candidates across the country.

Section 36 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 deals with the scrutiny of nomination papers by the returning officer (RO) in elections and its sub-section 4 says the "RO shall not reject any nomination paper on the ground of any defect which is not of a substantial character".

One Jawahar Kumar Jha, whose nomination papers as an Independent candidate from Banka parliamentary seat in Bihar for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls have been rejected by the RO, has moved the top court challenging the cancellation of his nomination.

In a plea filed through lawyer Alakh Alok Srivastava, Jha has also urged the top court to curb the arbitrary and mala fide exercise of discretion by the ROs across India in rejecting the nomination papers of the candidates.

"Issue urgent appropriate writ, order or direction to specifically define the defects of substantial character within the meaning of Section 36 (4) of the Representation of the People Act," the plea said.

"The said section 36 (4) of the Act, 1951 states that the returning officer shall not reject any nomination paper on the ground of any defect which is not of a 'substantial character'.

"However, there is no specific definition to specify as to what will constitute a defect of substantial character", it said.

Thus, in the absence of any specific definition, the Election Returning Officers are often found to be rejecting the nomination papers of various candidates in an utterly arbitrary and whimsical manner, it said.

"Such unbridled, ambiguous, discretionary and arbitrary exercise of power by the Returning Officers is posing grave danger to our democracy, as sometimes eligible and popular candidates are being ousted on extraneous consideration and non-suitable candidates are being confirmed despite having glaring defects in their nomination forms," it said.

It also sought a direction to the ROs across the country "to mandatorily provide a reasonable opportunity of at least a day to every candidate to cure every defect marked in the election nomination papers".

Jha also sought a direction to the poll panel and the RO of Banka to quash "the Press Release... dated April 05, 2024 issued by the Public Relation Office, Banka, vide which the nomination of the Petitioner was arbitrarily rejected" and declare him as a valid candidate.

The plea said the RO and the observer acted in an "utterly mala fide and arbitrary manner" in rejecting Jhas nomination form seemingly with an ulterior motive of benefitting the candidate belonging to the ruling dispensation.

"This is evident from the fact that instead of pointing out all shortcomings/ defects in Petitioner's Nomination Form in one go, the Returning Officer kept on marking different defects at different times till the end," it said.

The polls will be held on April 26 for the Banka parliamentary constituency.
Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 12 (PTI) Rahul Gandhi is a determined and courageous leader who is not swayed from his decisions by any adversity that comes his way, veteran Congress leader A K Antony said here on Friday.

Antony said Rahul Gandhi, who had no interest in politics just like his father Rajiv Gandhi, was now fighting against the BJP not to become the PM, but to safeguard the basic structure of the Indian Constitution.

"He is turning into the most trustworthy and credible leader in India," he said.

The Congress stalwart was speaking at the release of a book on Rahul Gandhi by veteran mediaperson N Asokan.

Speaking at the event, which was held at Indira Bhavan here, Antony fondly recalled the initial days of his political life, how he became close to the Nehru family and his memories about a young Rahul Gandhi whom he first saw at 'Shakti Sthal' memorial at Raj Ghat in Delhi paying respects to Indira Gandhi after her assassination.

Antony said the Nehru family is known for sacrificing their lives for the nation and both Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv were examples of it.

He said Indira Gandhi refused to remove her Sikh bodyguards despite being told that they posed a threat to her life.

"She gambled with her life to protect the secularism of our nation," Antony said.

He further said Rajiv Gandhi was repeatedly asked by his wife Sonia Gandhi not to enter political life and take up the mantle of Congress leadership, but he did and later he too died tragically.

"I was AICC general secretary when I saw Rahul and Priyanka for the first time when they were paying respects at their grandmother's memorial. I saw them again, slightly more grown up, when they were paying respects to their father at his memorial," Antony said.

He said that from a child, who lived like a bird in a cage surrounded by security personnel and experienced the grief of the untimely deaths of his grandmother and father, Rahul has grown into the man he is now -- "determined and courageous."

Antony said Rahul's determination was evident from how he took moral responsibility for the party's loss in 2019 and resigned as Congress president, refusing to return to that position despite entreaties from everyone including his mother.

"It was also seen when he walked over 3,000 km from Kanyakumari to Srinagar as part of the Bharat Jodo Yatra and when he refused to return from Manipur without meeting the affected people and visiting violence-hit areas," the Congress stalwart said.

"Whatever be the adversity, once he takes a decision, he is not swayed from it. It is his determination that brought together 28 parties under the INDIA bloc. The Congress decided to contest only from 300 seats in the LS polls as he was of the view that it was more important to defeat BJP than winning more seats," Antony added.

He urged everyone to buy the book and read it.
Kozhikode, Apr 12 (PTI) The deadline loomed like the sword of Damocles but an astonishing four days is all it took for people in Kerala to channel their compassion and rally together to raise an astounding Rs 34 crore to save a man from the state from the gallows in Saudi Arabia.

In a display of solidarity, people in Kerala have come together to save Abdul Rahim, who hails from Kozhikode, whose only chance to live is to pay the blood money of 15 million Saudi Riyals which comes to around Rs 34 crore, before April 18, 2024.

Rahim has spent 18 years behind bars in the Gulf nation for allegedly killing a Saudi boy in 2006.

Until five days ago, the action committee, formed to work for the release of Rahim, could raise only a meagre amount but as the deadline neared, the campaign was intensified and help poured in from Kerala people from across the world, the action committee formed to help Rahim, said on Friday.

Local people said Rahim was jailed in 2006 after he accidently caused the death of a specially-abled boy whom he was taking care of. He was sentenced to death in 2018 after the family of the Saudi boy refused to grant amnesty.

The action committee members told the media that the appeals were rejected by the top courts but later the family agreed to pardon Rahim if he pays 'blood money.'

Praising the spirit of Kerala people, Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, said it was the "Real Kerala Story" of compassion and truth.

He said in the face of relentless hate campaigns targeting Kerala, "the indomitable spirit of Malayalis shines through", upholding together the state's resilience and compassion.

"Abdul Rahim's story, a Kerala man facing execution in Saudi Arabia, symbolises this resistance. With 34 crore rupees raised for his release, Kerala's commitment to its people and values is crystal clear, shattering divisive lies.

"Gratitude to all those who joined hands for this humanitarian cause. United, we'll continue sharing the Real Kerala Story of compassion and truth," Vijayan posted on X.



The action committee, which met the media said more than 75 organisations in the Gulf region, along with Kerala-based businessman Bobby Chemmannur and various political organisations in the state, worked tirelessly in the last few days to meet the deadline.

"Thousands of common people contributed whatever they could and all helped us to raise the money," a member of the committee told the media here.

His mother said she never thought that such an amount could be raised.

"I had no hope as we have no means to raise Rs 34 crore. But somehow it was all made possible," she said.

The committee said all the transactions were through a mobile application created for the purpose of crowdsourcing and it ensures transparency in the matter.

Chemmanur organised multiple events in the past few days to raise money. He also arranged for the sale of one of his products and donated the amount for the cause. The businessman has also assured to give a job to Rahim once he is back in the state.
U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez and his wife will be tried separately on allegations that they participated in a bribery scheme, a federal judge ruled Thursday after Nadine Menendezs lawyers argued that she requires treatment for a serious medical condition.

The New Jersey Democrats trial will remain scheduled for May 6 in Manhattan federal court, while Nadine Menendezs trial was tentatively pushed back to July 8.

This trial is going forward without Mrs. Menendez in order to give some stability and certainty to all parties, Judge Sidney Stein said. The government is going to have to try this case two times.

Nadine Menendezs lawyers argued for the move in a letter to Stein this week, saying she was recently diagnosed with an unspecified condition that will require surgery in the next four to six weeks. In court on Thursday, they said she needs more time to undergo testing to understand the nature of the condition.

A lawyer for the senator urged the judge not to hold up his clients day in court over the issue, saying the allegations are a specter hanging over the former chair of the powerful Senate Committee on Foreign Relations that effectively removes his ability to run for reelection this year.

Senator Menendez wants his May 6 trial date, Adam Fee said. We are asserting our speedy trial rights.

Prosecutors, meanwhile, contended that the entire trial should just be delayed, arguing in a letter to the judge that severing Nadine Menendezs trial from her husbands would result in serious inefficiencies and unfairness that would require dozens of witnesses to be recalled.

Were ready to try this case. We want to try this case, Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Richenthal said in court. We dont want to try this case twice.

Stein on Thursday also denied motions to dismiss the case outright and to transfer the trial, which is expected to last four to six weeks, to New Jersey.

The Menendezes and two businessmen have pleaded not guilty to charges that they participated in a bribery scheme in which prosecutors say cash and gold bars were given to the couple in return for the senator carrying out political favors. Bob Menendez chaired the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee until he stepped down from the role in September because of the allegations.

A third businessman, Jose Uribe, has pleaded guilty to bribery charges and agreed to testify against the others at trial. Uribe said he conspired with Nadine Menendez and others to provide her with a Mercedes-Benz in return for access to her husbands power and influence.

Prosecutors allege that in return for the bribes, Menendez helped one of the businessmen get a lucrative meat-certification deal with Egypt. Menendez helped another associate get a deal with a Qatari investment fund, an indictment alleges.

(AP)
The Arizona Legislature devolved into shouts of Shame! Shame! on Wednesday as Republican lawmakers quickly shut down discussion on a proposed repeal of the states newly revived 1864 law that criminalizes abortion throughout pregnancy unless a womans life is at risk.

The state Supreme Court cleared the way on Tuesday for enforcement of the pre-statehood law. Arizona abortion providers vowed Wednesday to continue service until theyre forced to stop, possibly within weeks.

State legislators convened as pressure mounted from Democrats and some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, for them to intervene.

House Democrats and at least one Republican tried to open discussion on a repeal of the 1864 abortion ban, which holds no exceptions for rape or incest. GOP leaders, who command the majority, cut it off twice and quickly adjourned for the week. Outraged Democrats erupted in finger-waving chants of Shame! Shame!

Republican state Rep. Teresa Martinez, of Casa Grande, said there was no reason to rush the debate. She accused Democrats of screaming at us and engaging in extremist and insurrectionist behavior on the House floor. The GOP-led Senate briefly convened without debate on abortion.

We are navigating an extremely complex, emotional and important area of law and policy, said Martinez, the GOP House whip. In my opinion, removing healthy babies from healthy mothers is not health care nor reproductive care. Pregnancy is not an illness. It should be celebrated. It is an abortion that terminates life.

Democratic legislators seized on national interest in the states abortion ban.

Weve got the eyes of the world watching Arizona right now, said Democratic state Rep. Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, of Tucson. We know that the Supreme Court decision yesterday is extreme. And we know that should the 1864 ban on abortion remain a law in Arizona, people will die.

Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs called inaction on the proposed repeal unconscionable.

Radical legislators protected a Civil War-era total abortion ban that jails doctors, strips women of our bodily autonomy and puts our lives at risk, she said.

Three Republican legislators openly oppose the ban, including state Rep. Matt Gress, of Phoenix, who made a motion Wednesday to repeal the law. In a statement, he said the near-total ban is not reflective of the values of the vast majority of our electorate, regardless of political affiliation.  This issue transcends all.

According to AP VoteCast, 6 out of 10 Arizona voters in the 2022 midterm elections said they would favor guaranteeing legal abortion nationwide. The state recorded 11,530 abortions in 2022, the last data available, according to Arizonas Department of Health Services.

At Camelback Family Planning in Phoenix, where about one-fourth of Arizona abortions are performed, registered nurse Ashleigh Feiring said abortion services were still available and that staff hope emergency legislation will avoid interruptions or closure.

Our plan is to stay open as long as possible, Feiring said. Our clinic has been shut down twice in the last four years, but weve always resumed service.

At the same time, anti-abortion groups including SBA Pro-Life America urged Arizona residents to oppose a proposed ballot initiative aimed at placing abortion rights in Arizonas state constitution.

They would wipe away all pro-life laws put in place by the Legislature, reflective of the will of the people, SBA President Marjorie Dannenfelser said in a statement.

Hobbs, however, predicted that outrage will motivate voters to enshrine abortion rights directly in state law.

The fight is not over, for sure she said.

Grace Harders drove around metro Phoenix on Wednesday looking for an opportunity to sign an abortion rights petition. She said she wouldnt know what to do if she had an unplanned pregnancy but knew shed be scared.

Im a pro-choice person, and I want to ensure the right for all women, Harders said.

Abortion rights advocates said theyve gathered more than 500,000 signatures for the petition from the Arizona for Abortion Access campaign  far above what they need to add a ballot question asking voters to approve a constitutional amendment protecting the right to abortion until viability, when a fetus could survive outside the womb.

Arriving for a campaign fundraiser in Atlanta, Trump said the Arizona court decision went too far and called on state lawmakers to change it even as he defended the U.S. Supreme Courts 2022 ruling overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Its all about states rights, the former president told supporters and journalists. Itll be straightened out.

Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, most Republican-controlled states have started enforcing new bans or restrictions, and most Democratic-dominated ones have sought to protect abortion access.

Meanwhile, voters have sided with abortion rights supporters on statewide ballot measures in California, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Montana, Ohio and Vermont.

The Arizona ruling suggests doctors can be prosecuted for performing the procedure. The 1864 law carries a sentence of two to five years in prison for doctors or anyone else who assists in an abortion.

Physicians are now on notice that all abortions, except those necessary to save a womans life, are illegal, the Arizona Supreme Court said in its decision, adding that additional criminal and regulatory sanctions may apply to abortions performed after 15 weeks, the states previous time limit for the procedure.

Beyond that, the court ruling also ignited concern that enforcement might interfere with handling miscarriages.

Enforcing the 1864 law wont begin for at least two weeks. However, plaintiffs in the case  including Planned Parenthood  said the delay could last up to two months, based on an agreement reached in a related case.

Planned Parenthood has said it will offer abortion services up to 15 weeks of pregnancy for at least two more months, in line with an agreement in the related case.

Doctors and clinic leaders are anticipating a scramble across the Southwest region to accommodate Arizona residents as they travel out of state for abortion care.

(AP)
Abraham Foxman, the former head of the Anti-Defamation League and a longtime supporter of President Joe Biden, blasted the presidents constant critiques of Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a post on X, Foxman accused Biden of undermining Israel, the USs greatest ally in the Middle East, and empowering the Hamas terrorist group.

The US has called for an immediate unilateral ceasefire in Gaza, aligning with the demands of Hamas terrorists, despite Israeli negotiators trying to leverage military pressure into a hostage deal in Cairo. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has stated that Israels efforts to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza are not good enough, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned that Israel is becoming like Hamas, showing a disregard for civilian life.

Foxman called for Biden to end his ceaseless criticism of Israel, stating that it only bolsters Hamas and its allies. He wrote, President Biden  respectfully, please stop criticizing PM Netanyahu. While he is not perfect, Hamas went to war against the State of Israel, not the PM. Your ceaseless criticism only weakens Israel and strengthens Hamas and Israels enemies here and abroad.

Foxman also criticized Bidens demand for an immediate ceasefire in a phone call with Netanyahu, threatening a loss of US support for the war if Israel does not comply.

I like President Biden and I respect him  but who advised him to threaten Israel to agree to a ceasefire deal for hostages immediately- knowing that Hamas had rejected every offer Israel made? he asked. Why should they make a deal  when America supports their position?

Foxman had previously thanked Biden for his support for Israel following the October 7 massacre, but has since expressed disappointment in the presidents growing distance from Israel. He noted that Bidens remarks have confirmed that the US has adopted Hamass demand for a ceasefire before a deal to release hostages in Gaza.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Talks continue in Cairo for a hostage release deal and temporary truce, but US and Israeli officials have expressed fears that most of the Israeli hostages held by Hamas since October 7 have been killed in captivity, according to a Wall Street Journal report on Wednesday. While the IDF has confirmed the deaths of 34 of the 129 remaining hostages, officials estimate that the number of deaths could be much higher, with some US estimates suggesting that most hostages are already dead.

The report states that some hostages were likely killed by Israeli strikes on Gaza, while others died from health issues, including injuries sustained during their abduction. Those still alive are believed to be used as human shields, surrounding Hamas leadership in Gaza tunnels.

Hamas has indicated that it may be unable to provide 40 living hostages for the initial release, as previously agreed upon. Israel has insisted that 40 living hostages must be freed in the first phase, with any shortage made up from other categories.

Mossad chief David Barnea told cabinet ministers on Wednesday that freeing all 133 captives and remains held in Gaza in a single truce agreement would be impossible, with at best 40 people being freed in a first phase.

Of the 253 hostages kidnapped during the October 7 attacks, 105 civilians were released during a weeklong truce in late November, and four hostages were released prior to that. Three hostages have been rescued alive, and the bodies of 12 hostages have been recovered, including three mistakenly killed by the military. One person is still listed as missing since October 7.

Hamas is also holding the bodies of fallen IDF soldiers Oron Shaul and Hadar Goldin since 2014, as well as two Israeli civilians, Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, who are believed to be alive after entering the Gaza Strip on their own accord in 2014 and 2015, respectively.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Iran has conveyed to the United States through diplomatic channels that it will respond to the alleged Israeli attack on its embassy in Syria in a controlled and non-escalatory manner. The message was delivered by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian during a visit to Oman on Sunday, a Gulf Arab state that has previously acted as an intermediary between Tehran and Washington.

A source familiar with US intelligence said that Iran has been clear about its intentions to respond in a measured way, planning to use regional proxies to launch attacks on Israel. However, the source was not aware of the specific message conveyed through Oman.

The development comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reached out to his counterparts in China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Europe to urge them to use their influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel. Blinken emphasized that escalation is not in anyones interest and that countries should encourage Iran to refrain from taking action.

Additionally, British Foreign Minister David Cameron spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, to stress that Iran should not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict following threats made against Israel.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Israel is prepared for Iran to carry out a direct attack against the Jewish state in the next 24-48 hours, the Wall Street Journal stated in an exclusive report on Thursday evening.

The IDF and Mossad have approved a plan for a counterattack against Iran if an attack takes place, Ynet reported on Friday, adding that Israels cooperation with the US military has tightened in the past day.

According to the WSJ report, Israel is preparing for a direct attack on Israels north or south. The US Embassy in Israel on Thursday warned US employees and their family members not to leave the areas of Jerusalem, the greater Tel Aviv area, and Beer Sheva until further notice.

Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Beersheba areas until further notice, the US embassy stated. US government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel.

Channel 14 News reported that according to Israeli intelligence, the first phase of an Iranian attack would be carried out via dozens of missile launches from Iran and its proxies in Iraq and Yemen.

However, the WSJ report stated that Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has not made a final decision on an attack yet, fearing that a direct attack on Israel will lead to a massive Israeli counterattack on Iranian infrastructure.

Israeli forces across Israel are at their highest level of readiness, with some saying that the danger Israel faces is at a level not seen since the Yom Kippur War in 1973.

In the past day, the IDFs Home Front Command ordered the heads of local authorities across Israel to prepare for the possibility of an Iranian attack, Kan News reported on Thursday evening. The authorities were instructed to prepare quietly, without creating a public panic.

The Home Front Command has instructed the Israeli public that at this stage, there are no changes in instructions for civilians.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Representative Rashida Tlaib, a prominent anti-Semite and member of the Squad and Democratic representative for Michigans 13th congressional district, found herself embroiled in controversy Wednesday following her heated exchange with a Fox Business Network reporter regarding recent Death to America chants in her district.

As posted on YWN, the viral video capturing participants chanting Death to America and Death to Israel at an Al-Quds Day rally on April 5 in Dearborn, Michigan, had stirred national outrage and condemnation. Despite representing a district with a significant Muslim population, Tlaib remained silent on the matter until pressed by FBN correspondent Hillary Vaughn.

However, Tlaib, whose district includes the Detroit suburb of Dearborn, known for having the largest per capita population of Muslims in the United States, showed no willingness to engage in discussion when confronted about the disturbing incident.

I dont talk to Fox News! Tlaib emphatically stated, refusing to engage with Vaughn despite repeated attempts to address the issue.

Tensions escalated as Tlaib continued to rebuff Vaughns inquiries, accusing the reporter of using racist tropes. I dont talk to people who use racist tropes, Tlaib reiterated, signaling her unwillingness to engage further on the matter.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)


People look forward to Shabbos as a day to daven in shul and enjoy the company of other community members. Unfortunately, there are people with mobility issues who are housebound on Shabbos and, for them, Shabbos is lonely. But thanks to groundbreaking technology developed by Movinglife, an Israeli company with American service and distribution, the housebound are now afforded a new opportunity to rejoin the tzibbur and enhance their Shabbos. We are excited to announce STAR-K certification of the Shabbatto folding mobility scooter, a new personal mobility device with a Shabbos Mode.

The road to certification began with Movinglife contacting STAR-K to discuss their project. After approaching STAR-K to seek certification, the Movinglife management team met with Rav Moshe Heinemann shlita, STAR-Ks posek and Rabbinic Administrator, at his home. This initial meeting lasted a good few hours, during which Rav Heinemann explained in detail what he would permit and what he would forbid for Shabbos use.

Movinglife subsequently programmed the scooters Shabbos mechanism to follow Rav Heinemanns halachic guidelines. They showed the result to the Rav, who called for some further minor changes. Once those changes were incorporated, the final product was tested by STAR-K. We are now able to certify that the Shabbos mechanism for Shabbatto folding scooters fully meets all of Rav Heinemanns requirements. Thus, the Shabbatto is the only scooter to currently meet STAR-Ks Shabbos standards, for use by Cholim only.

Below are answers to frequently asked questions concerning this scooter.

How it works?

SHABBATTO STAR-K offers users the ability to activate an external mechanism, that deploys 2 principles to make it permissible for use on Shabbos: the Grama Principle and the existing current modulation technique.The SHABBATTO motor operates in crawl mode throughout the Shabbos, consuming minimum power. This halachic principle is known as continuous current modification. According to this principle, instead of turning the engine on to drive, the user is only adjusting the level of an existing current to move and modify speed.The fact that the motor is turned on before Shabbos and operates continuously in the background is a breakthrough that makes the SHABBATTO STAR-K more halachically enhanced, allowing user to operate the scooter without fearing the desecration of Shabbos and sets it apart from the other Shabbos-approved scooters in the market.

Who can use this scooter on Shabbos?

The scooter may be used only by one who is designated to be a choleh, in that he or she is unable to engage in normal Shabbos activities due to mobility issues. An Orthodox Rabbi must be consulted to decide whether a particular person meets that criteria.

Can the scooter be used on Shabbos in a public domain that does not have an eruv?

No. It can be used on Shabbos only where there is a kosher eruv.

Can the scooter be used in any community?

No. Poskim of some communities may feel that it inappropriate for a choleh to use a scooter on Shabbos, or they may take issue with the halachic argument permitting its use. Therefore, the scooter may be driven on Shabbos only in communities in which the poskim condone its use, and driven to shul only if the rabbi permits.

Why is this scooter permissible on Shabbos?

Some melachos are forbidden midOraysa (by the Torah) on Shabbos, while others are forbidden midrabanan (by Talmudic decree). One is not allowed to perform an action which will immediately result in the occurrence of either a melacha dOraysa or a melacha drabanan. Moreover, barring extenuating circumstances, one is not allowed to perform any action that will result in a melacha dOraysa taking place even at some later time.

However, to meet the specific needs of cholim on Shabbos, Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach ztl allowed for the custom building of devices that result in a melacha drabanan occurring after a brief delay. The Shabbattos Shabbat Mode mechanism relies on this principle of grama. When the scooter is in Shabbat Mode, it will not start moving immediately upon engaging the throttle; any movement is preceded by a few-second delay.

Why is it permissible to use the scooters brakes on Shabbos?

The scooter will stop immediately upon the application of the hand brakes, and there will not be any time delay. When in Shabbat Mode, the brakes work mechanically, similar to the brakes on a bicycle. Since the brakes are mechanical and not electric, this is permitted on Shabbos.

Is it appropriate to use the scooter in public on Shabbos?

On Shabbos, a person driving the scooter must place a sign on the back of the scooter stating that the user is a choleh due to impaired mobility, to mitigate the impression that he is disrespecting Shabbos. A STAR-K-approved sign is provided along with the Shabbos mechanism.

When in Shabbat Mode, are there any scooter controls which may not be used?

When in Shabbat Mode, all of the scooters electric controls activate only after a time delay of a few seconds. Any controls that activate immediately are disabled. The one exception is the emergency horn, which does activate immediately. Therefore, as its name suggests, it should only be used in an emergency.

Does the company that manufactures the scooter also manufacture the Shabbos mechanism, or are they two different companies?

They are one and the same. Because Movinglife manufactures the scooter, they can seamlessly integrate the Shabbos mechanism.

How can I purchase this scooter?

Movinglifes mobility experts go the extra mile to bring our products directly to you, whether it be through phone consultations, select premium physical stores, personalized home demonstrations, or online platforms. This personalized approach enables us to provide professional guidance and tailored assistance, ensuring that you can explore, experience, and select the perfect solution every time.

Locations with showroom and home demo by a Frum mobility expert.

Locations with showroom and home demo by a Frum mobility expert include Tri-state area, Florida, California. Cant make it to us? Contact us for an in-home free test drive (888)-680-1090

Purchase information about the STAR-K-approved Shabbatto portable scooter is available HERE
If you can afford the astronomical price tag, buyers of this electric car won't ever have to worry about range anxiety.

German giant Mercedes has this week announced it has upped the already market-leading range of its flagship electric model - the EQS - so it can go even further on a single charge.

Buyers of the updated EQS will get an extra 51 miles of range - now a whopping 511 miles in total - thanks to a new bigger battery.

The Mercedes EQS has had an upgrade and now the longest range version can go a staggering 511 miles on a single charge, which is almost 100 miles more range than you'd need to drive from London to Edinburgh

To get the 511 miles you'll need to buy the 450+ version. Prices are yet to be confirmed for this luxury car but the starting price will be at least what the EQS already starts from - 112,610

There are a number of range enhancing changes including a new 118kWh battery, improved regenerative braking and front motor disconnect on all-wheel-drive versions that helps conserve energy when the front motor isn't needed

This means you can drive from London to Dundee without stopping to top-up.

Or, for those looking for a European alternative, travelling from Mercedes' home in Stuttgart, Germany, to Nice on the French Riviera.

The price is yet to be revealed but starting price will be at least what the current model costs, which is an eye-watering 112,000.

It's the monumental range that makes this update a real headliner.

Thanks to a new 118kWh battery (up from 108.4kWh) and clever new efficiency tech, the Mercedes EQS 450+ will be the first EV sold in Britain that claims to be able to smash the 500-mile barrier on a single charge.

It's 511-mile claims is around 70 miles more than the Fisker Ocean, which has the second longest range of any electric car you can by in the UK.

Other changes Mercedes have introduced to maximise range include better energy recuperation from regenerative braking (up to 3m/s from 1.5m/s previously) and a heat pump as standard across all models.

The only exterior tweaks are a bolder black and chrome grille - a nod to the S-Class's radiator - and a upright three-pointed Mercedes star of old

All-wheel-drive versions can also disconnect the front motor when not required to conserve energy.

Thanks to these features, range has increased by more than 11 per cent across the board.

The EQS 4Matic now offer 496 miles (up from 445) but it's the single motor 450+ you want to splurge on if you want the chart-topping 511 miles.

Looks wise, there's a couple of 'status-conscious' additions (to some trim levels) including a new radiator trim with chrome applications (mimics the S-Class radiator) and the traditional Mercedes-Benz upright three-pointed star on the bonnet.

The MBUX Hyperscreen - a digital display that spans across the whole cabin - is now standard on the EQS.

It's made up on three displays merged into one piece of glass to create a screen strip that is over 141 centimetres wide.

The hyperscreen now comes as standard on the EQS range with the three screens blending almost seamlessly into one giant display

Rear passenger comfort has been improved with option of the Rear Comfort Plus and the Extended Rear Luxury Lounge Pack

Inside, there are subtle changes to rear comfort: the back seats can recline (36 degrees as standard or an additional two degrees with the optional Rear Comfort Plus package which also heats the neck and shoulders) and the Extended Rear Luxury Lounge Pack now comes with a special slanted footrest on the right side in the rear compartment.

For anyone who wants a very glamorous towing vehicle, the EQS will now be able to tow 1500kg (up from 750kg) - the same as the EQ SUVs.

Prices are yet to be confirmed, but expect them to be far from cheap as there certainly won't be any movement on the starting price of 112,610.
Harvest Minerals rocketed higher at the front end of this week's session, soaring from 1.3p on Monday to more than 3p on Wednesday.

The 130 per cent share price surge followed a resoundingly positive sales update for its KP Fertil fertiliser product.

Orders to the end of March 2024 totalled 8,492 tonnes, or 24 per cent of the total 2023 volumes, with stronger sales tipped for the second half of the year.

Chairman Brian McMaster acknowledged 'the challenging market conditions', though the numbers point to resilient company performance.

Harvest's flagship Arapua Fertiliser Project in Brazil provided more good news; the group observed the presence of critical rare earth elements (REE) at the site.

Impressive growth: Harvest Minerals shares surged 130 per cent following a resoundingly positive sales update for its KP Fertil fertiliser product

Although shares came down in the latter half of the week, this double shot of good news supported a 33 per cent share price rise over the five-day period.

Travelling to the northern tip of the Americas, Pantheon Resources declared a huge resource estimate upgrade for its Kodiak field on Alaska's North Slope.

The new estimate puts recoverable resources at 1.2 billion barrels of marketable liquids, which marks an increase of around 25 per cent increase from previous estimates.

'We can now turn our attention to development, along with our growing Ahpun resource, to turn these volumes to cash flow and value for shareholders,' said Pantheon technical director Bob Rosenthal.

Natural resources were the talk of the town across the entire stock market this week, with gold prices hitting new all-time highs and silver reaching half-decade highs.

Little wonder then, that mining blue chips including Fresnillo, Rio Tinto and Anglo American supported a rally on the FTSE 100, hitting an all-time high of 8,017 on Friday.

Promising macroeconomic data didn't hurt either- the UK economy grew by 0.1 per cent month on month in February. Sure, not a groundbreaking figure, but it did underscore the shallowness of Britain's technical recession in late-2023.

The AIM All-Share Index was no slouch either, adding more than 3 per cent to reach a year-to-date high of 763.

AIM also saw a new member with HeLIX Exploration making a premium-priced debut on the junior market.

Helix raised 7.5million in an oversubscribed IPO through a 10p-per-share placing. Shares initially spiked above 12p and have held steady at 10.6p since.

Brokerage firm SP Angel highlighted the potential of the helium sector to support Helix's valuation going forward.

'Helium exploration plays are currently in vogue on the back of a forecast global supply shortage and rapid projected demand growth from high-tech sectors, which use inert helium gas for everything from the production of semiconductor chips to the purging of space rocket engines,' said analysts.

Energy microcap Oracle Power plc pushed to the top of the AIM movers list following news of a new acquisition in Western Australia.

The international project developer secured an exclusive option to acquire 100 per cent of the Blue Rock Valley Copper and Silver Project, located in the Ashburton Basin of the state. The stock rallied 60 per cent as a result.

Switching gears to the hospitality industry, the Revolution Bars Group plc saga took a new turn as the struggling bar chain recommenced trading on AIM.

The stock was temporarily suspended earlier this month after failing to publish its interim results in time. Results were finally published on Wednesday, with the group also announcing a 10.5million placing to support a restructuring plan.

Shares were lifted off the floor and managed to gain 30 per cent over the week.

Bens Creek was among AIM's biggest fallers this week, with the stock falling more than 50 per cent. In a corporate update, the board announced that, due to the depressed metallurgical coal price and production difficulties, it will be reducing activity at Bens Creek Operations WV subsidiary.

Surface Transforms plc's share price was slashed in half following a first-quarter trading update. The manufacturer of carbon fibre-reinforced ceramic disc brake materials penned total sales of 3million, a flat sequential trend that evidently disappointed shareholders.

Finally, R&Q Insurance shares were slashed by a third after the AIM-listed non-life insurer gave a dour outlook on future sales.

'R&Q anticipates that it will realise a significant pre-tax loss for the year driven by the adverse development in Legacy and a material increase in corporate costs in relation to the sale of Accredited,' the group said in a statement.
In this series, we bust the jargon and explain a popular investing term or theme. Here it's chair.

Nothing to do with furniture...

No, you're right. But there has been a new development in the debate as to what name should be used for the executive who occupies the top seat at the boardroom table.

Is 'chairman' the appropriate term? Or is 'chair' more suitable, since the person who takes this role may now be a woman?

So what's new?

A study from Bloomberg has been the spur. This research shows that 185 of the companies in the US S&P 500 index use 'chair' or 'chairperson'  three times as many as did so in 2020.

Boardroom battle: Research shows that 185 of the companies in the US S&P 500 index use 'chair' or 'chairperson'  three times as many as did so in 2020

Among those that have made the shift are three major banks: Bank of America, JP Morgan and Wells Fargo. But Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and Citi still use chairman  although Citi has a woman chief executive in Jane Fraser.

Almost half of tech groups use the term 'chair', including Alphabet, Amazon, Meta and Tesla.

So 'chairman' could become redundant?

Not so fast. As the Bloomberg study reveals, in recent months, there has been a decline in the number of companies deciding to order a change to 'chair'.

The reasons for this are far wider than simply the desirability of gender-neutral language, however.

There is a mounting backlash against corporate 'woke' behaviour, with more politicians and those in business questioning the effectiveness of DEI (diversity equity inclusion) strategies that were promoted as a way to boost the employment and other opportunities of minorities.

Who are the chief spokespeople in this debate?

Elon Musk, the Tesla boss, is the most vociferous objector from the business world, arguing that 'DEI is just another word for racism'.

He argues that DEI policies 'discriminate on the basis of race, gender and many other factors' and so are 'immoral and illegal'. What his chairman Robyn Denholm thinks of this stance has not been recorded.

Any other key figures?

The billionaire hedge fund boss Bill Ackman, founder and chief executive of the Pershing Square investment trust, which is a member of the FTSE 100, last year spearheaded a high-profile campaign to unseat the president of Harvard over anti-Semitism on the university's campus.

Pershing Square has a female chairman in Anne Farlow. But it is likely that most investors will be less concerned about the choice of title for this board position than the discount on the trust.

Its share price is at a 28 per cent discount to the value of its net assets.

Is chairman still the most usual term in the UK?

Having been around since the 17th century, it seems likely to stick around for a while yet.

For example, the term chairman will continue to be used at John Lewis  this week, Jason Tarry replaced Dame Sharon White.

However, if a woman is appointed to the role, there seems to be a preference for 'chair'. Cressida Hogg, of BAE, and Caroline Silver, of Barratt, are 'chairs'. In 2022, then chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng rejected a call from several bodies for the Government to replace 'chairman' with 'chair'.
Slowdown: Fendi's spring collection

The luxury goods industry is braced for trouble as a slowdown in demand from China hits sales.

LVMH will be the first major player to shed light on business when it updates investors next week.

The French multinational giant is seen as a bellwether for the industry because it owns so many brands, from Louis Vuitton and Fendi to Tiffany and Moet and Chandon.

There will also be updates from Gucci owner Kering, Prada and Hermes the following week. British label Burberry and Richemont will report in May.

LVMH will post numbers on Tuesday. Sales for the first three months of the year are expected to be flat, according to investment bank JP Morgan. Demand from Chinese consumers will be 'the biggest swing factor', according to analysts at the Bank of America.

The world's second-largest economy has been hit by a debt crisis in its property sector.

British stores may have suffered from an especially bruising decline in Chinese shoppers, according to retail expert Jonathan De Mello.

He said: 'Key customers have been a bit turned off by a lack of VAT-free shopping and there are also issues with getting into the UK now as specific visas are required.'
An online petition demanding a vote on Nationwide's deal to buy Virgin Money has surged past 1,000 signatures.

The building society, which is owned by its 16million customers, plans to bolt on the lender to create Britain's second biggest savings and loans group.

Nationwide insists that City takeover rules preclude the mutual from giving its members a vote on the 2.9billion deal.

Risky: Nationwide insists that City takeover rules preclude the mutual from giving its members a vote on the 2.9billion deal

But campaigners say buying the bank is risky and will weaken Nationwide's strong balance sheet. It is also unclear what is in it for members, they add.

'Nationwide is trying to keep discussion to a minimum, but why are they so afraid of a vote?' said petition organiser Mikael Armstrong. 'Their approach seems to be 'trust us'  it's an odd way to run a mutual.'

Armstrong has handed in the change.org petition to the society's headquarters in Swindon  with the 500 signatures Nationwide's rules say are needed to call a special members' meeting to discuss the deal.

Nationwide maintains that any member ballot would be 'advisory' and 'non-binding'.
While an alarming number of British household names have fallen victim to languishing consumer confidence, a Chinese retailer has quietly built a presence in the UK.

While other Chinese retailers like Shein have shaken up the fast fashion e-commerce model, Miniso has gone head first into retail stores here.

Inside its dazzling pink stores, Miniso offers its customers cheap lifestyle products, as well as plushies, arts and crafts, and most recently beauty.

After opening its 26th store in Stratford Westfield, UK chief operating officer Saad Usman tells This is Money he is eyeing more store openings.

Miniso launched its first store in the UK in 2019 and is eyeing further expansion

'We are clearly a Chinese brand'

Miniso launched in 2012 after Chinese founder Ye Guofu was inspired by products he saw on a trip to Japan, but were being manufactured in China.

It started life as a homeware and lifestyle retailer, but has since expanded its range to target a younger customer, with an assortment of plushie toys, blind boxes and beauty products.

It opened its first shop in Guangzhou in 2013 and by August 2018 it had more than 1,000 outlets overseas. It has since received the backing of Chinese tech giant Tencent and made its stock market debut in New York in 2020.

Now it boasts over 6,000 stores across the world, with Mexico, India and Pakistan performing particularly well outside of China, says Usman.

But it has not been without some hiccups.

While it might have been heavily influenced by Japanese kitsch, in 2022 it came under fire from Chinese customers for playing up these connections and was forced to apologise.

It said it had 'taken the wrong path' with its brand positioning in its early days, but now it stands firm in its Chinese roots.

'There has been some confusion along the way, but it's very clearly a Chinese brand,' says Usman.

It also suffered heavily during the pandemic thanks to strict rules in China, but it has started to recover.

Its rapid international expansion has no doubt helped - in its latest results, Miniso beat revenue expectations, boosted by a 28 per cent growth in international sales.

Its partnerships with huge brands like Disney, Marvel and most recently, Hello Kitty, have helped catapult the brand into the mainstream and become a big player on the UK high street.

'We have to convince customers they're getting a good experience'

In 2019 Miniso launched its first UK store in Ealing. It is, perhaps, a surprising choice for a retailer, not least for the first store in a new country.

'Where the brand was in 2019, we were very much a lifestyle retailer,' says Usman.

'The idea was that if the brand works in Ealing, which is a small suburb, the expectation was that it would work in the more high profile locations.'

Saad Usman is Miniso's chief operating officer in the UK

Miniso used the store as a springboard to build brand awareness and to 'understand the scale across the UK', arguably a tactic used by other budget retailers like B&M and Home Bargains.

The expansion comes amid huge sales growth for the brand which, in its latest results, reported global revenue of $514million in the three months to December 2023, an increase of 54 per cent over the quarter.

Its overseas revenue accounts for nearly 40 per cent of total sales.

'When you open your flagship locations there's a much higher level of pressure to make sure you get it right the first time round.

'There wasn't a very big magnifying glass that time on the [Ealing] store, or big enough at least for us initially. In hindsight I think it was the right decision.'

Thankfully for Usman, the tactic worked and a year later Miniso opened in Cardiff's biggest shopping centre. Two years later it opened a 'high profile location' in Manchester.

While its move into more residential areas has helped to build some awareness, it is still reliant on bigger locations to do the brunt work.

There are inevitably huge differences in footfall, and it is yet to reach pre-covid levels - Usman concedes 'we probably might not get there.'

Not everything needs to be very expensive for it to be attainable

The smaller stores 'struggle with that' but can 'tolerate a lower sales level' given how well its bigger stores in shopping centres perform.

In the past few months, Miniso has ramped up its 'high profile' locations with the launch of a huge store in Oxford Street in 2023, Camden Town earlier this year, and most recently Stratford Westfield.

The move to bigger locations is a bold move for the retailer that four years ago had just one store in the UK.

While mainstays of the British high street like Wilko and the Body Shop have fallen victim to the economic climate, Miniso has doubled down on its retail outlets.

It indicates a shift in focus to ramping up dwell time - the amount of time customers spend in store - as well as footfall, which tends to increase in shopping centres.

'I think there's many retailers out there that will say that you now have to convince, not just with your product or your price point but also the experience that you're giving to customers,' says Usman.

'You have to convince them that this is an experience to come to one of our stores and spend time and your hard-earned money'

'Miniso has a Chinese saying which doesn't translate amazingly well but loosely goes, life shouldn't be about the price,' says Usman.

'Not everything needs to be very expensive for it to be attainable. That is Miniso's goal to spread joy and it should be about not having to spend a fortune to bring that joy.'

Is there a place for Miniso in the UK?

Value retailers have done well since the pandemic. Budget retailer B&M recently posted double digital sales and handed out a special dividend after a healthy Christmas performance.

Home Bargains has also reported a rise in profit and sales, thanks to improved performance.

It is no wonder then that Miniso has done so well since its launch in 2019. Consumers have been squeezed as the price of everything rises and they look to budget retailers to bridge the gap.

Miniso's value proposition - its average transaction ranges between 11 and 16 - means it has built a loyal following among Gen Z females and mums with young children.

It is a bright spot in what has become a difficult time for the British high street. While other brands have collapsed into administration or been forced to close physical stores, Miniso has doubled down on its presence.

The UK remains an important location for the brand, despite some broader headwinds for the market.

Miniso now operates over 6,000 stores across the world and found success with its Japanese-inspired products

'Would we like to double the store count and triple the sales? Yes. I don't know any retailer that wouldn't. But I think for the direction that we're going, I think we're exactly where we need to be and in a good place.

While there might be much talk of investment in the UK being pulled, it remains an important avenue for Miniso.

'There is an understanding [from HQ] that the UK has had a challenging period but it's always been a goal to set up a base here.

'Any brand that is aspiring to be a major player in their respective industry the US, UK, a few other countries in Europe, Dubai there's always been an understanding that those are the markets you have to break in order to be considered a super brand.'

Over the last year, the brand has made a concerted effort to build its presence in these locations, having opened its world flagship in Times Square.

'They realised that if they wanted to make the moves that they wanted to make and have that brand recognition, that's what they needed.'

It is also why it is turning its attention to bigger locations in the UK: 'If you're in the UK, to be in Ealing is great but with all due to respect to Ealing, where you really want to be is Oxford Street, the Westfields of the world, Cadmen Town.'

Miniso has capitalised on social media trends and captured a strong Gen Z audience

How China can dictate UK product trends

Away from weakening consumer demand, there is another possible headwind for Miniso. The 'cute' trend has been on a steady rise in the UK in large part thanks to social media, but interest could easily wane as quickly as it piqued.

By the end of December 2023, its total inventory value reached 1.47billion yuan, up around 24 per cent in just half a year.

A brand reacting to trends that come and go on TikTok could soon become outdated. Just how quickly can Miniso react to this increasingly trend-led type of retail?

'A normal life cycle for a product is six to nine months, but there are opportunities to move a little faster which we pride ourselves on.'

Usman doesn't divulge just how quickly it can manufacture products but says there are some products that are specifically manufactured with the UK in mind.

While social media has become important for upcoming product lines, Miniso's UK business looks to China who are 'usually 6, 12, 18 months ahead.'

One significant import has been blind boxes, which are mystery, sealed packages that contain randomly distributed products.

Usman says China has been selling them since 2021 and have only recent taken off in the UK. They now appear in every single Miniso store in the UK, with a dedicated store in Chinatown, and have become a 'very substantial' part of the business.

A few years ago there were very few Chinese retailers that had successfully made headway in the UK market, with a perception that many of the products were cheap and badly made.

The explosive growth of Temu and Shein have helped to change this perception, so is part of its success down to its peers?

'We don't really compare with other brands that by chance come from the same country,' says Usman. 'We believe that we offer good value, high quality products. What other brands may or may not do is completely up to them'.

The cutesy brand might have found a committed fan base among the TikTok generation, but it will need more than that to keep a physical presence on the ailing high street.

It could prove a risk if sentiment fails to improve, but given the likes of Temu and Shein have not yet launched physical stores, it could give Miniso the boost it needs.
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A YOUNG couple who had booked the Charleville Park Hotel for their dream wedding feared that plans for their big day were in tatters after reading on social media that the venue looked set to house asylum seekers or refugees.

On Saturday morning at 11.28am, a man posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account: Charleville Park has been taken over by IPA. Staff have been given notice.

By 10pm, the post had accumulated 115,000 views, 126 reposts, 345 likes, and 64 comments. The couple were two of countless people to believe the post which has since been deleted.

Pat McDonaghs So Hotel Group, which owns the Charleville Park Hotel, were contacted on Saturday night.

A spokesperson said: This post is false, vexatious and has caused considerable damage and upset to the hotel staff and owners.

The hotel has maintained its status as a community hotel throughout many challenging years. We are proud members of the Charleville community and will remain so. Thank you for your continued support.

Supermacs boss Pat McDonagh spoke to the Leader this week about the falsehood on social media, saying, We will sue them because it is not something that can be tolerated.

The gardai are investigating it. We will leave it in their hands as to who it is. We will definitely prosecute whoever it is once we find out for definite who is involved, said Mr McDonagh, who added that for anyone to imply he met staff and was letting them go is totally malicious.

He said they are currently spending 500,000 on upgrading the Charleville Park Hotel which employs up to 150 people between full and part-time staff.

Mr McDonagh said he was disappointed in the likes of X and Facebook that they allow this to happen and not do anything about it.

They were quick enough to take it down for the GAA thing but they werent quick enough to take down a malicious rumour, said Mr McDonagh, in reference to Supermac's having their social media accounts suspended after an April Fool's prank concerning Croke Park.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Frank O'Flynn received a number of calls from people who had read the post.

I know one couple who have a wedding booked there and they were very upset. Not alone the couple but their parents and all their friends. It caused a lot of worry and anxiety, said Cllr O'Flynn, who also spoke of the concerns of people who have Holy Communions, Confirmations and meetings booked for the Charleville Park Hotel.

The mayor said something will have to be done where people put up something online that is completely untrue..

This is happening every day - I call them keyboard warriors. They are completely outside the law. The laws will have to be looked at.

I know people who were on Twitter and Facebook and they have actually taken down their profiles because they said they couldn't put up with the comments from people who probably didnt even know them, said Cllr O'Flynn.

The Limerick Leader reached out to the person on whose account the original post appeared on but they declined to comment on the record.
A Waterford murder accused boasted he had knocked a young Dublin construction worker out like mixed martial artist Conor McGregor "like he was proud of it" and said that he should have been in the UFC and didn't know his own strength, witnesses have told a trial.

Maurice 'Mossy' Boland (36), of Bridgeview Close, Tallow, Co Waterford has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Cian Gallagher (26) at Barrack Street in Tallow on November 10, 2022.

The jury has heard that the deceased man was from the Malahide Road in Dublin 17 and worked in a managerial type role mainly on civil construction projects up to the time of his death.

The 12 jurors were told by the State in the opening address that Mr Gallagher, who was working on a construction project in Co Waterford, died from a brain bleed eight days after he was punched and knocked to the ground by the accused man in the early hours of November 2. The defendant later described the altercation to gardai as a "pure accident".

Student Patrick Fennessy told Roisin Lacey SC, prosecuting, today that he was 17 years old in 2022 and was playing a minor county final against Tallow on November 1. He and his two friends James Flynn and Carthack Hickey drove to Tallow later that night to see whether any of the Tallow minors were around.

The three men were driving towards Clancy's Bar in Tallow between midnight and 00.30, when they saw a man on his feet and another man on the ground in the middle of the road outside the pub. Mr Fennessy said they initially thought when they got out of the car it was just two friends who had a bit too much to drink and one of them had fallen over.

The witness said the man on his feet was trying to drag the other man along the ground and off the road. They realised the man on his feet was a bit intoxicated so they moved the man on the ground, who was wearing work clothes, off the road and onto the footpath. He said there was a bit of blood coming out of the man's mouth and he was breathing but it sounded as if he was snoring.

Mr Fennessy said his friend Mr Flynn rang 999 and that he and Mr Hickey spoke to the man on his feet, who he now knew to be Mr Boland. The witness said the accused told them that Mr Gallagher had hit him first and that he [Mr Boland] was just defending himself.

The witness added: "Then he [Mr Boland] pulled me to the side and said he didn't know his own strength. He said he was like Conor McGregor and gestured his fist up to my jaw".

He said the accused told him that Mr Gallagher was speaking to him about the Russians and how they were going to take over with the bombings.

Mr Fennessy said today that a woman driving a black Ford Fiesta was "coming and going" and came back to the scene numerous times. He said he saw the woman pull the accused to the side and that Mr Boland had pulled his phone out of his pocket to give to her.

Under cross-examination, Michael Bowman SC, defending, put it to the witness that he had said in his direct examination that his client was a bit drunk but had told gardai the accused was very drunk when he spoke to them the day after the incident. The witness said this was a fair statement.

In his evidence, James Flynn said the accused man told them there was no need to get an ambulance for Mr Gallagher as he didn't want "to get involved in it".

Mr Flynn said he called 999 at 00.27 and the operator told him to put Mr Gallagher on his back with his head raised. He said he could hear the deceased breathing but it was a "laboured snore" when he was breathing in.

"Even when I was on the phone, Mossy was asking us not to get an ambulance, that Cian would be fine, he was just asleep. Mossy had asked us to put him in the back of the car and let him sleep it off at home," added the witness.

Asked by Ms Lacey whether anything was said as to how Mr Gallagher ended up on the ground, Mr Flynn replied: "Mossy said he was chatting shit to him and he needed to shut him up, he showed on Patrick [Fennessy] where he had punched him".

"He said he had knocked him out like Conor McGregor and that he should have been in the UFC," continued the witness.

Mr Flynn said the accused said it as if he was "proud of it, making a joke of it".

The witness said they asked Mr Boland what he worked at and the accused had laughed and said he "drinks".

He said the accused kept saying that Mr Gallagher was talking about the Russians and "something about bombs'.

The witness agreed with Mr Bowman that his client was highly intoxicated on the night. He also agreed the accused had engaged in "some drunken mouthing off" and that he thought "the talk" was boastful that he should have been in the UFC.

Mr Bowman put it to the witness that his client "certainly didn't have the physique of being in the UFC," to which Mr Flynn replied: "I have seen some very skinny UFC fighters".

Carthack Hickey told Conor O'Doherty BL, prosecuting, that Mr Boland told him he had an argument with Mr Gallagher but that the construction worker had swung first and missed. The witness said the accused told him he had hit Mr Gallagher back and the deceased fell.

The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women.
*Reader discretion is advised*

THERE were emotional scenes in Limerick Circuit Criminal Court this Friday morning as a mother told the man, who engaged in a sexual act with her baby boy, he was a dirty, ugly, horrible, smelly scumbag".

The woman went over to the accused as he was being led away by prison officers at the end of the sentencing hearing and verbally berated him.

Judge Tom ODonnell lifted reporting restrictions on the defendant - Jamie Marshall, aged 35, who is a native of Limerick. The judge told media in attendance not to name the mother, the child or give Mr Marshalls address as his parents reside there.

Mr Marshall pleaded guilty to five charges - engaging in a sexual act with a child under the age of 15, possession of child pornography, knowingly distributing child pornography, knowingly producing child pornography and use of information and communication technology to facilitate sexual exploitation of child.

The evidence in the case was heard on Thursday.

Judge ODonnell put matters back to this Friday to consider his verdict.

In giving his verdict, the judge said he would not go into the graphic details.

Judge ODonnell said the behaviour of Mr Marshall was vile, egregious, despicable and appalling. He said it was depravity of the highest order with an infant child. The judge spoke of the psychological damage suffered by the mother.

Judge ODonnell took into account the accuseds early guilty pleas, remorse expressed and the avoidance of a trial.

The judge handed down a six-year jail sentence with the last two years suspended on each of the five charges to be served concurrently. They were backdated to May 2, 2023, when Mr Marshall first entered custody.

The mother of the child wished to waive her right to anonymity but she cannot be named as it would identify the child.

She told media at the conclusion of the case she would have preferred if he got longer (in jail).

Four years for such horrible acts and uploading them - I think it's an absolute joke. It was too nice to him, said the woman, who hoped the DPP appeals the sentence on grounds of leniency.

I was hoping for at least 10 years. Im not happy with the sentence at all. I wanted closer to 10 years definitely. I am distraught by it all, she said.

The woman wished to thank the messaging mobile app Kik for reporting the videos and images, The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in America, gardai and especially Detective Garda John ONeill.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin did not refute suggestions that a referendum to approve Irelands participation in an EU patent court will not be held in June as planned.

The Unified Patent Court aims to make it easier for businesses and inventors to copyright their ideas and inventions across the EU  meaning they would only need to make one patent application instead of several.

The court opened in June last year and has 17 EU countries as members.

The Irish Government said in January it had approved the drafting of a bill that would allow Ireland to take part in the patent court.

But following a report in the Irish Independent on Thursday that suggested the referendum in June was in doubt, Mr Martin said they were running out of time to hold the referendum on the same date as the local and European elections, June 7.

He denied the suggestion that the government was afraid to run another plebiscite after a double rejection of two referenda in March.

The new Enterprise Minister, Peter Burke, is to bring a memorandum to government on Tuesday on whether to run the referendum in June as planned.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: My view is that time is running short between now and the local elections.

Ive always had a view myself that referendums ideally should be held on their own, and not in the context of other elections.

Others have different views, others felt that with local elections, European elections, you get a reasonable turnout to vote on a given referendum.

The problem is getting the focus and time to focus on important issues. To amend the constitution is a very serious issue and it needs proper time, proper preparation and explanation to the public, in this case the Electoral Commission needs adequate time.

So my view is were running out of time in respect of the local elections and European on that date to hold the patent referendum.

Its an important referendum in its own right, very important in terms of the industrial base of Ireland, life sciences, technology, and the research that underpins a lot of jobs in Ireland so we have to work on getting it done, and I think we need to do more work in terms of explaining to the public what is involved.

He said a final decision would be made on Monday evening when the three coalition party leaders will meet to discuss it.

Asked whether the government was afraid it would get another resounding defeat in the referendum as they did in the care and family referendums in March this year, he said no and cited his belief that referendums should run separately and on their own.

Mr Martin, who directed what he called the Lisbon Two referendum, added that he learned a lot from that and has long-believed that referendums should be held on their own.

He added: I have a very healthy respect around putting amendments to the constitution to the people, you cant do it in a rushed manner or in a manner that can leave it open for confused debate.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and his counterpart from Belarus Sergei Aleinik have discussed strategic partnership between the countries, a source in the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry told Trend.

The discussions were held during Bayramov's working visit to Belarus.

The meeting welcomed the level of strategic partnership relations between the two countries, mentioned the importance of developing cooperation in potential areas, and discussed mutual visits.

Specifically, the significance of expanding cooperation in education, science, culture, and sports was emphasized.

The parties also pointed out the necessity of strengthening collaboration between the two countries within international organizations.

Additionally, perspectives on developing cooperation in other economic sectors, such as agriculture, transportation, engineering, and tourism, were discussed.

Ministers noted the substantial potential for expanding economic relations, citing important decisions made during the 13th session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation held on May 15, 2023.

Furthermore, the Belarusian side was briefed on preparations for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), and opportunities for cooperation within this event were assessed.

The ministers discussed issues related to the restoration and reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan and the possible contribution of Belarus to this process.

Bayramov also provided detailed information to his colleague about the existing mine threat in the region.

The meeting also hosted an exchange of opinions on other mutual interests.

12:56

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held a bilateral meeting with his counterpart from Belarus Sergei Aleinik during his working visit to the country, the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan wrote on its page on X, Trend reports.

The ministers discussed the broad range of issues standing on the bilateral agenda and looked at areas to advance the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Belarus.

To note, on the day before, Bayramov left on a working visit to Belarus.

As part of the visit, he is to attend and speak at the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting on April 12 in Minsk. In addition, the minister will participate in various bilateral meetings.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. On April 10, yet another incident unfolded along the conditional border between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Armenian armed forces once again unleashed gunfire on an Azerbaijani border post, resulting in the injury of an officer of the State Border Service.

Following an investigation by the Armenian National Security Service (NSS), Armenian border guards were accused of flouting regulations, which led to the shootout.

"On April 10, a conscript of the NSS border troops, upon learning that a shepherd and his flock had strayed into Azerbaijani territory, decided to cross the border unlawfully with fellow servicemen to retrieve the livestock, thereby violating service rules, which negligently caused significant damage, led to an unjustified shootout, and endangered the lives and health of people," the department stated.

However, one can't help but wonder: where was the EU monitoring mission in the middle of all this?

The EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia kicked off in January 2023. Initially, there were 100 staff members, a number that had risen to 209 by December. Yet, did none of them manage to react promptly?

Their total lack of response to the incident suggests that Europeans simply aren't prepared to shoulder this responsibility.

This isn't the first time Europeans have stayed mum or excused themselves by claiming they had no access to certain Armenian villages. When a similar incident occurred in February of this year, the EU mission shifted the blame to Russian border guards.

So, what exactly are their duties then? It was only in March 2024 that the Armenian parliament ratified the agreement with the European Union on the status of the EU observation mission, which should regulate the mission's activities and clarify its functions. So, what were the observers doing for the past year remains unclear.

Clearly, Europeans have been playing favorites with their Armenian allies all this time. The Armenian side has already taken responsibility, while the EU continues to cover for them. Once again, "binocular diplomacy" has failed.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pashinyan is suggesting that the mandate of the European mission on Armenian territory could be extended for another two years. Besides the fact that Europeans have once again demonstrated their ineffectiveness, extending their mandate simply becomes another hurdle to the demarcation of the Azerbaijani-Armenian border and the conclusion of peace between the parties. At the same time, Pashinyan claims that all issues between Baku and Yerevan must be resolved independently, without third parties. What exactly is the Armenian leadership aiming for?
Afternoon reports reveal a dangerous situation on the nice side of the bridge . . . Here's the update and more reporting . . .



"The Missouri Highway Patrol says it was notified of the fire at 1:46 p.m. They are assisting local crews in evacuating "numerous residents" in the area. There are no reports of injuries at this time. "



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Out of control wild fire spreading rapidly in Platte County, near Bean Lake The wild fire is reported to be near Bean Lake and the Evergy Power Plant.

Authorities warn of wildfire spreading near the Buchanan, Platte County boundary The Buchanan County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about an out of control fire on the county line between Buchanan and Platte counties.

Developing . . .
Actually . . . There's an involved process underway . . . And here's a bit of behind the scenes info:

If this legislation doesn't work . . . Missouri officials will likely sue for an election given that Jackson County population numbers now exceed the limits for an appointed assessor.

Here's the glimpse at the progress . . .



The bill saw bi-partisan support in the Senate Committee on Local Government and Elections and even has support from the sitting Jackson County Assessor Gail McCann Beatty.



Supporters said the bill was filed due to reported data errors, long lines, and questionable assessments in Jackson County.



If lawmakers approve the resolution, it would go before voters on a statewide ballot to become law.





Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
Big picture politics and more than a bit of partisan shaming from Missouri's MAGA-adjacent leading politico . . .



Democrats, (Missouri Senator Josh) Hawley argues, dont want a blinding impeachment spotlight turned on that historic dereliction of duty.



They dont even want to vote to acquit him. I mean, get this: they dont want to vote at all. They are so afraid of what might come out of the trial. And we know whats going to come out of the trial: that the border is overrun, that drugs are pouring into Missouri and every other state in the country, that violent criminals have come across the border and are killing people in every state in the country  9 million Illegals, maybe 10, while Joe Biden has been president.



They are so afraid of that that theyre going to try to get rid of the trial altogether and not do anything  not vote to acquit, nothing. It is a total travesty, and its all about covering up the crime of the open border.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
If you haven't heard the buzz, Zurich has been named the most liveable city in Europe for 2023! This Swiss city stands out not only for its financial clout but also for its quality of life that really sets it apart.

Zurich excels with its efficient public transport and pristine public spaces, making it super easy and pleasant to get around. You'll love the clean air and the numerous parks perfect for unwinding. The city also scores high for its healthcare and safety, which are big pluses for residents and visitors.

Aside from these things, what else made Zurich as the most liveable city in Europe? Well, let's find out!

Public Transport Perfection

When you land in Zurich, the first thing you will notice is how effortless it is to get around. The city boasts a public transport network that is the envy of cities worldwide. Trains, trams, and buses are not only punctual to the minute; they are also clean and well-connected, covering every nook and cranny of the city.

This makes exploring Zurich a breeze, whether you are visiting the famous Bahnhofstrasse for shopping or heading to the quieter, picturesque spots by Lake Zurich. And it is not just about convenience-Zurich's commitment to public transport helps keep the city's air refreshingly clean. So, you can forget the hassle of car rentals and taxi fares; your Swiss Pass will be your best friend here.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Speaking of clean air, Zurich takes this very seriously. The city is consistently ranked highly for environmental quality. This is no small feat given its status as a global financial hub, but Zurich manages to maintain a perfect balance. The plethora of green spaces within the city limits, such as Zurichhorn Park, provide residents and visitors alike with plenty of options for outdoor fun and relaxation.

If you are jogging by the Limmat River or enjoying a lazy afternoon in one of the city's numerous cafes, the air quality contributes to the overall feeling of well-being. Plus, the city's stringent environmental policies ensure that this isn't going to change anytime soon.

Boasts Rich Culture

Zurich is not just a treat for the environmental and transit-oriented. Culture seekers will find themselves at home here too. The city's Kunsthaus Zurich is one of the premier art galleries in Europe, featuring works by significant artists from Munch to Monet.

For those who favor history, the Swiss National Museum is the perfect place for the history lovers. Regular cultural festivals and events throughout the year keep the city's vibe lively and engaging. If you are into art, music, or theater, Zurich has a calendar brimming with activities that cater to all tastes.

Economic Stability Meets Quality of Life

Economic stability might sound a bit dry, but in Zurich, it translates directly into quality of life. Zurich is a global financial center, home to banks, financial institutions, and the stock exchange.

This economic backbone supports high standards of living, excellent healthcare, and a vibrant educational scene, all of which contribute to its top livability ranking. You will see this in the well-maintained public facilities, the seamless services, and the overall sense of security that pervades the city.

It is easy to see why professionals and families alike flock to Zurich-not only for the opportunities it offers but for the high quality of life that comes with them.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. The State Security Service of Armenia accused the Armenian border guards of violating the rules, which led to a shootout, Trend reports via Armenian media.

The media said that a criminal case has been initiated into an apparent violation by border guards of a number of rules of military service.

As the State Security Service noted, on April 10, a conscript soldier of the service's border troops, having learned that a shepherd and his herd had gotten lost and ended up on Azerbaijani territory, together with his colleagues decided to cross the border without permission and return the cattle, thereby violating the rules of service, which "negligently caused significant damage, led to a wanton shooting, and endangered the lives and health of people".

Previously, the State Border Service of Azerbaijan said that on April 10, around 15:20, it was discovered that two individuals from the direction of Nerkin Khnzoresk village of Armenia, opposite the positions of the frontier troops of the State Border Service located in Jijimli settlement of Azerbaijan's Gubadli district, violated the state border, crossing approximately 300 meters into Azerbaijani territory with about 200 heads of small livestock.

The border guard of the Azerbaijani State Border Service preventing the violation of the state border was fired from a combat post of the Armenian Armed Forces, as a result of which Senior Lieutenant Rovshan Mammadov was wounded.

The serviceman was immediately evacuated to a medical facility.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
The University of Tokyo AY 2024 graduate matriculation ceremony was held at the Nippon Budokan on the afternoon of Friday, April 12th.

Approximately 3,030 new students and 3,350 members of their families attended the ceremony, making for a total of approximately 6,380 attendees.

President Fujii Teruo, the executive vice presidents, deans of the Faculties and Graduate Schools and the directors of University Institutes went on stage, along with special guests Dame Louise Richardson, President, Carnegie Corporation of New York; and Mr. Muneoka Shoji, chairman of the UTokyo Alumni Association.

President Fujii Teruo gave a speech to the new students on behalf of the university, followed by a speech from Dean of the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Urano Yasuteru. Dame Louise Richardson and Mr. Muneoka then gave congratulatory messages to the new students. Next, Mr. Tango Sakito, a student in the Graduate School of Economics, took an oath on behalf of the entire incoming class, after which the ceremony was concluded.

A livestream of the ceremony was provided, and watched by many new students and their families who were unable to attend the ceremony, as well as the general public.



A translated version of President Fujiis speech for the ceremony is available for viewing online here.



Photos: OZEKI Yuji
Waiting for the sun at Poker Flat

Photo by Ned Rozell

Astrophysicists Lindsay Glesener, left, and Sabrina Savage enjoy the sunshine on an observation deck at the Neil Davis Science Center on a hilltop at Poker Flat Research Range north of Fairbanks.

POKER FLAT RESEARCH RANGE  Under a bluebird sky and perched above a resilient winter snowpack, two sounding rockets point upward, ready to blast through the thickness of our atmosphere to gain a better look at the sun.

Inside a building on this sprawling complex within the Chatanika River valley north of Fairbanks are two women. Each will give a command to launch one of the rockets, the second about a minute after the first.

Both astrophysicists  Lindsay Glesener from Minnesota and Sabrina Savage from Alabama  are trying to find out more about solar flares during the five minutes the rockets will arc above northern Alaska.

Their two daytime launches are a rare event here at Poker Flat, owned by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute. Most rockets have blasted off at night since the range began life in 1969.

Since then, more than 300 sounding rockets, most more than 20 feet tall, have flown over Alaska. Many have carried instruments that have allowed scientists to study the aurora and other phenomena of the upper atmosphere more than 50 miles above our heads.

Gleseners and Savages separate rockets will each carry instruments designed to gather some of the best information ever obtained on solar flares. Solar flares are explosions on the sun that spew charged particles out into space. Sometimes they head toward Earth, causing brilliant auroras and  when they are powerful enough  disabling satellites and power grids.

Photo by Ned Rozell

Two sounding rockets, lower left, point toward the sky at Poker Flat Research Range north of Fairbanks.

In this second day that the rockets have been ready to launch, Glesener of the University of Minnesota and Savage of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center are watching live readings from satellites orbiting in the 93 million miles of space between the sun and Poker Flat.

Instruments aboard those satellites will show a dramatic uptick when a large solar flare is erupting. When Glesener and Savage determine the flare is large enough, they will begin a three-minute countdown to launch the two rockets.

Though it is a brilliant sunny day here in Chatanika, the satellite data displayed on monitors show that no flares of the desired magnitude are exploding our way. But this day, early in the experiment and with no large solar flares predicted, has been devoted in part to solving problems and tweaking equipment.

Today is like a dress rehearsal, one that could be real, Glesener says outside her launch teams room in the Neil Davis Science Operations Center on a hill at the 5,000-acre Poker Flat complex.

If not today, Glesener and Savage will one day soon make decisions to fire the rockets when the sun erupts with a flare. Flares may spew from the sun for about 10 minutes. Once launched, the rockets will carry their instruments out of the dense molecules of Earths atmosphere within two minutes.

When the rockets are above that 30-mile shell of gases, panels on the rockets will open, deploying telescopes optimized to see the energy emitted by solar flares. Their high-resolution view of the solar flares will last for just five minutes.

After the payloads within the rockets get their measurements, gravity will pull them back to the ground in northern Alaska. Workers for the range will recover the rocket stages and their parachutes by helicopter.

As the morning turns to afternoon, the satellites continue to show no remarkable solar flares. That does not seem to stress Glesener and Savage. Because of the predictable rotations of the sun and Earth, the scientists are optimistic that a flare of adequate size will point toward Earth in a few days.

Illustration by UAF Geophysical Institute

A map of Alaska shows the location of Poker Flat Research Range.

There is time to wait, as the launch window for this experiment is open for another week.

Until then, a few dozen team members helping Glesener and Savage, as well as the Poker Flat staff, will show up here in Chatanika early every morning and get ready for countdown.

A person whose amplified voice has counted down those seconds many times is Kathe Rich, the director of the range. She is now two miles down the hill, closer to the Chatanika River, in a building called the blockhouse.

Rich is with a few dozen other people in a squat building with walls 2 feet thick. They sit just 300 feet from the closest of the two rockets.

The blockhouse has been Richs place since she was present at her first Poker Flat rocket launch in 1991. She has bunkered in that windowless, somewhat subterranean control room for 154 launches since then, most of them on dark days with subzero temperatures.

Photo by Ned Rozell

Members of a rocket-launching team leave Poker Flat Research Range north of Fairbanks after a day when they did not launch the rockets, due to the lack of a desired condition on the sun.

Though she has been very close to all those detonations that rang through this forested valley, Rich has never seen a rocket launch through anything but a video monitor. Having worked with dozens of scientists with experiments embedded in rockets and students who are dependent upon the information gathered during launches, Rich says the stakes are high.

This payload has taken four years to get from the design-and-build process to the point of being on the rail, she says. If we have a failure, a lot of students wont get the data they need for their degrees. Theres a lot of years and tears that went into these payloads.

In contrast to Richs insulated vantage point, Glesener and Savage and the other people stationed up here at the Davis Science Center will have a sublime view of the launches, with the backdrop of nearby Pedro and Wickersham domes and the snow-white peaks within the White Mountains National Recreation Area.

As the sun arcs to the west and the clock strikes 4 p.m. with no solar flares detected, the researchers decide to call it for the day. After a debrief with the team, they hop into their rental cars and head back to their hotels in Fairbanks.

Tomorrow, they will be here again in the silent Chatanika River valley, hoping to send those rockets skyward and get the data for which they traveled so far.

Since the late 1970s, the University of Alaska Fairbanks' Geophysical Institute has provided this column free in cooperation with the UAF research community. Ned Rozell is a science writer for the Geophysical Institute.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Azerbaijan's Lachin city may receive the status of cultural capital of the CIS, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov said at a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in Minsk, Trend reports via X page of Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry.

The minister informed about Azerbaijan's view on the current situation and future prospects for cooperation in the trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres within the CIS.

Moreover, he briefed on preparations for COP29 (the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change), which will be held in Azerbaijan, the CIS Games 2025 in Ganja, as well as in connection with the application to assign the status of the cultural capital of the CIS to Lachin city, the ministry added.

To note, on the day before, Bayramov left on a working visit to Belarus.

As part of the visit, he is attending and speaking at the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Minsk. In addition, the minister will participate in various bilateral meetings.

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Russian strikes have forced Ukraine to make difficult decisions between providing air defense coverage to large population centers in the rear and active areas on the frontline.

This is said in the latest report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), according to Ukrinform.

It is noted that Russian strikes have forced Ukraine to make difficult decisions between providing air defense coverage to large population centers in the rear and active areas on the frontline.

Russia appears to be exploiting Ukraines degraded air defense umbrella in an attempt to collapse Ukraines energy grid and constrain Ukraines defense industrial capacity.

Read also: Trypillia TPP destroyed by Russian attack

Russian ground forces take advantage of their ability to use air strikes on Ukrainian frontline positions to make slow but steady gains, the report says.

According to ISW experts, sparse and inconsistent air defense coverage along the front has likely facilitated Russias intensification of guided and unguided glide bomb strikes, which Russian forces used to tactical effect in their seizure of Avdiivka in mid-February 2024 and which Russian forces appear to be using again during their current offensive operations near Chasiv Yar.

As Ukrinform reported, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with the German newspaper Bild, published on April 10, that Ukraine is successfully domestically producing drones, but that drones cannot replace air defense systems, long-range missile systems, or artillery.
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte in a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the provision of another one billion euros in military aid to Ukraine and 400 million euros for the country's reconstruction.

Zelensky said this in a post on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

"Just during a phone call, Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced that the Netherlands has allocated another one billion euros for military aid to Ukraine and 400 million euros for reconstruction. This is in addition to the commitments under our bilateral security agreement," he wrote.

Zelensky thanked Rutte and the people of the Netherlands, stressing that "this is a good example of support for Ukraine."

According to Zelensky, both parties also discussed joint work with partners to speed up the supply of shells for artillery, ammunition and air defense systems to Ukraine.

"I thanked [Rutte] for the productive Justice for Ukraine conference in The Hague and the launch of the Register of Damage. I spoke about preparations for the Peace Summit in Switzerland and invited the Netherlands to join. We also discussed the necessary efforts so that as many countries as possible support the event," Zelensky added.

Ukraine and the Netherlands signed an agreement on security cooperation in March.
The governments of Ukraine and Slovakia have agreed to hold a joint business forum in autumn this year.

This was announced by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal following the Ukrainian-Slovak government consultations on Thursday in the Slovak town of Michalovce, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"We have high expectations for the participation of the Slovak business community in the reconstruction of Ukraine. We have invited representatives of the Slovak business and the Slovak government to [Ukraine] Recovery Conference to be held in Berlin in June this year. Based on the results, we plan to organize a joint Ukrainian-Slovak business forum in the fall," the Prime Minister said.

According to him, the forum will outline promising areas of cooperation and investment in the economies of both countries.

As reported by Ukrinform, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that Slovakia will use the Ukrainian offshore oil terminal to supply oil products to the EU, and will cooperate with Ukraine in diversifying nuclear fuel supplies for nuclear power plants to reduce dependence on Russia.

Photo: Cabinet of Ministers
More than 400 mayors and high-ranking representatives from Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, the United States, Sweden, Slovakia, Lithuania, Estonia, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany and other countries met at the 5th International Mayors Summit in Moldova on April 11.

The founders of the summit, the American Western NIS Enterprise Fund (WNISEF), told this to Ukrinform.

In total, 480 participants took part in the event, including 60 Ukrainian mayors and heads of communities.

For the first time in its eight years of existence, the International Mayors Summit, founded in Ukraine, took place abroad -- in Moldova -- with the support of President Maia Sandu.

"European integration is the only way to ensure the prosperity of communities in Moldova, Ukraine and the European region. And work on the transformation of the country should be carried out in cooperation with local communities," Sandu said in her speech at the opening of the event.

The mayors presented projects aimed at reconstruction and sustainable development to their international colleagues.

Mykolaiv Mayor Oleksandr Sienkevych announced the creation of a website for monitoring international aid -- a system of transparency and integrity that will help establish trust and restore the city.

Mihai Jurca, the mayor of the Romanian city of Oradea, in turn, shared the experience of attracting EU funding for the construction of critical urban infrastructure, which also helped to attract investors, create new jobs and strengthen the city's economic development. According to Jurca, Ukraine and Moldova also need European funding in order to obtain even more resources and opportunities in the future.

"In today's global world, mayors are not just managers who are temporarily hired to manage cities. They are change agents, ambassadors and visionaries working to create sustainable, competitive and happy places to live. This is not an easy task, and for Ukrainian mayors it becomes even more difficult under the war conditions," concluded Iryna Ozymok, founder of the International Mayors Summit and Local Economic Development Program Director at WNISEF.

During the Summit, ten pairs of cities were also awarded the "The Power of Partnership" special award for their joint projects in the field of humanitarian aid, cultural exchange, education, infrastructure, etc. The partnerships of the following cities were also awarded, among them Mykolaiv (Ukraine) - Chem (Poland), Vinnytsia (Ukraine) - Karlsruhe (Germany), Khmelnytskyi (Ukraine) - Siauliai (Lithuania) + Ciechanow (Poland), Chortkiv (Ukraine) - Caravaggio (Italy), Kopychyntsi (Ukraine) - Liskeard (Great Britain) + Cavarzere (Italy), Bilogorodka (Ukraine) - Tyreso (Sweden), Danceni (Moldova) - Filipestii de Padure (Romania), Edinet (Moldova) - Alba Iulia (Romania), Bacioi (Moldova) - Oradea (Romania), Sireti (Moldova) - Tulucesti (Romania).

In addition, Ozymok announced the launch of the "Growth Poles" study by the International Mayors Summit, WNISEF, CIVITTA, and EasyBusiness. The research is designed to identify effective tools of economic growth for Ukrainian cities, proposals for better regional planning, taking into consideration regional differences, as well as approaches for rapid development of depressed regions of Ukraine. The concept of "growth poles" was first applied in France as a post-war reconstruction tool, which is designed to create conditions for decentralized economic development and support the strong to lead the weak regions. Today, this concept is successfully applied in more than 45 countries.

The Western NIS Enterprise Fund (WNISEF), funded by the U.S. government through USAID, is the first $285 million regional private equity fund in Ukraine and Moldova, which has invested more than $188 million in 136 companies and helped raise $2.4 billion in the region for 29 years of work.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on October 28-29, 2023, Malta hosted the third summit at the level of foreign policy and national security advisors to discuss the Ukrainian Peace Formula.
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Published April 12, 2024

MONROE, LA  ULM Professor of History and Associate Director of the School of Humanities Dr. Jeffrey E. Anderson had his new book published by LSU Press in March. Voodoo: An African American Religion is a modern account of the voodoo faith as it existed in the Mississippi River valley from colonial times to the mid-twentieth century, when, he argues, it ceased to thrive as a living tradition.

A news release from LSU Press states that Despite several decades of scholarship on African diasporic religion, Voodoo remains underexamined, and the few books published on the topic contain inaccuracies and outmoded arguments.

The release goes on to say that Anderson provides a solid scholarly foundation for future work by systematizing the extant information on a religion that has long captured the popular imagination as it has simultaneously engendered fear and ridicule. His book stands as the most complete study of the faith yet produced and rests on more than two decades of research, utilizing primary source material alongside the authors own field studies in New Orleans, Haiti, Cuba, Senegal, Benin, Togo, and the Republic of Congo.

Douglas J. Falen, author of African Science: Witchcraft, Vodun, and Healing in Southern Benin, praised Voodoo, saying, From Voodoo queens to hoodoo magic, Jeffrey E. Andersons Voodoo is a meticulously researched and wide-ranging investigation of the religions historical trends, cultural influences, and ritual life. It is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding Voodoos relationship to the faiths of the African Diaspora, as well as what makes Mississippi River valley Voodoo unique.

Anderson has also authored The Voodoo Encyclopedia: Magic, Ritual, and Religion; Hoodoo, Voodoo, and Conjure: A Handbook; and Conjure in African American Society.

More information about Voodoo: An African American Religion, can be found at LSU Press here.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Armenia has put more than 500 wildlife species at risk in Azerbaijan, the country's Foreign Ministry said in a statement, Trend reports.

The ministry noted that Azerbaijan's first arbitration ever [arbitration proceedings against Armenia under the Berne Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, to which both states are parties] was launched on January 18, 2023, based on a wide range of evidence about the widespread environmental destruction caused by Armenia during its 30-year illegal occupation of Azerbaijans territories.

"On April 12, 2024, the Peace Palace at the Hague hosted the first formal proceedings in Azerbaijans claim within inter-state arbitration under the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.

Upon liberating its territories in 2020, Azerbaijan uncovered shocking evidence of Armenias destruction of, and failure to protect, the environment.

Armenias actions caused severe harm to the areas natural habitats and species, depleted natural resources, and destroyed biodiversity.

Armenias widespread deforestation, unsustainable logging, and pollution through significant environmentally irresponsible and illegal construction and mining activities in forest regions, including in what had been protected nature reserves prior to Armenias illegal occupation in 1991, have put more than 500 wildlife species at risk in Azerbaijan.

Until today, Armenia continues to harm biodiversity and living nature in our territories by polluting the transboundary rivers flowing from its territory to the territory of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijans legal action makes specific claims against Armenia in areas such as legal obligations to maintain populations of all wild flora and fauna; ensure conservation, restoration, and improvements to the habitats of wild flora and fauna; and take steps to protect species listed by the Convention, including migratory species, as a priority.

In the arbitration, Azerbaijan asked the distinguished tribunal to order Armenia to cease all ongoing violations of the Bern Convention and pay full reparation for its environmental destruction.

This arbitration will set an important precedent as a landmark step in environmental litigation-making and make the international legal obligations imposed on states related to biodiversity truly effective. It is also a serious effort to secure justice," the statement concluded.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Azerbaijan has urged Armenia to cease violations of the Bern Convention [on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats] and pay full reparation for environmental destruction, the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan said in a statement, Trend reports.

The ministry noted that Azerbaijan's first arbitration ever [arbitration proceedings against Armenia under the Bern Convention, to which both states are parties] took place on January 18, 2023, based on a wide range of evidence about the widespread environmental destruction caused by Armenia during its 30-year illegal occupation of Azerbaijans territories.

"On April 12, 2024, the Peace Palace at the Hague hosted the first formal proceedings in Azerbaijans claim within inter-state arbitration under the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.

In the arbitration, Azerbaijan asked the distinguished tribunal to order Armenia to cease all ongoing violations of the Bern Convention and pay full reparation for its environmental destruction.

This arbitration will set an important precedent as a landmark step in environmental litigation-making and make the international legal obligations imposed on states related to biodiversity truly effective. It is also a serious effort to secure justice," the statement concluded.

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The University of Texas at Dallas has recently undergone a momentous change, marked by the closure of its Office of Campus Resources and Support, formerly known as the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

This decision, a direct response to Texas's SB 17, a contentious law that has ignited discussions about its impact on university policies and practices, is a significant milestone in the institution's history. As the university prepares for this transition, it's crucial to delve into the implications of this decision and what it signifies for the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at UT Dallas and beyond.

Evaluating the Decision: President Richard Benson's Perspective

UT Dallas President Richard Benson's closure announcement underscores the institution's ongoing assessment of its response to SB 17. In light of the law's implementation on January 1, the university has been reevaluating its strategies and priorities concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion. Benson's statement reflects a broader trend across Texas public universities, where similar reassessments and policy adjustments have been made in response to SB 17's requirements and implications.

Benson's decision to close the DEI office is a clear indication of UT Dallas's proactive approach to compliance with SB 17. By taking preemptive measures to address the potential risks associated with non-compliance, UT Dallas is demonstrating its commitment to navigating the legal landscape while upholding its institutional values. However, the closure also raises important questions about the influence of legislative mandates on university policies and the autonomy of academic institutions in addressing social issues.

The Human Impact: Job Losses and Campus Community Concerns

One of the immediate and most poignant consequences of the DEI office closure is the loss of twenty jobs, a stark reminder of the human impact of legislative measures like SB 17. Beyond the bureaucratic restructuring, these job losses represent real people whose lives are directly affected by policy decisions made at the state level. Moreover, the closure of the DEI office poses significant challenges for marginalized communities on campus, who depend on these resources for support and advocacy.

The decision to relocate certain functions of the DEI office, such as accessibility services, elsewhere on campus reflects an effort to maintain essential support systems while adjusting to the new regulatory environment. However, concerns remain about the accessibility and effectiveness of these services in their new context. As UT Dallas navigates this transition period, it's essential to prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations and ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Looking Ahead: Reimagining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

As UT Dallas and other Texas universities adapt to the requirements of SB 17, there is an opportunity to reimagine approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion that go beyond traditional institutional structures. While the closure of the DEI office may signal a setback for some, it also invites reflection on alternative strategies for fostering inclusive campus environments. This includes exploring grassroots initiatives, interdisciplinary collaborations, and community partnerships that can complement formal institutional efforts.

Moreover, the challenges posed by SB 17 underscore the importance of advocacy and activism in defending the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion within higher education. Students, faculty, staff, and community members must continue to advocate for policies and practices that prioritize equity and justice for all university community members. By leveraging collective action and mobilizing resources, UT Dallas can continue to uphold its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion despite the challenges posed by external forces.

The closure of UT Dallas' DEI office in response to SB 17 marks a significant moment in the university's history, prompting reflection on its values, priorities, and obligations as an academic institution. As the campus community navigates this transition period, it's essential to remain vigilant in safeguarding diversity, equity, and inclusion principles that are fundamental to the university's mission. UT Dallas can chart a path that honors its commitment to creating a campus environment where all members can thrive by embracing change, fostering dialogue, and advocating for social justice.
The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has expanded its investigations into potential violations of federal laws prohibiting discrimination based on shared ancestry at universities nationwide.

In the past ten days, Lehigh University, Princeton University, Youngstown State University, and the University of Michigan have been added to the institutions under scrutiny.

These recent additions underscore the seriousness with which the Education Department addresses allegations of discrimination within higher education. As the number of universities under investigation continues to grow, questions arise about the prevalence of discriminatory practices on college campuses and the steps needed to ensure inclusivity and equality for all students.

Rising Concerns: Antisemitism and Islamophobia Allegations

The surge in investigations follows an increase in complaints alleging antisemitism or Islamophobia, particularly in the aftermath of the conflict between Israel and Hamas that began in early October. Recognizing the urgency of these complaints, the Education Department started publicly listing institutions under investigation in mid-November. This move reflects a commitment to addressing discrimination and intolerance in educational settings.

The allegations of antisemitism and Islamophobia highlight broader societal issues and the challenges of fostering inclusive environments on college campuses. Universities must confront these issues head-on and take decisive action to ensure that all students feel safe, respected, and supported regardless of their religious or cultural background.

READ ALSO : Education Department Delays Gainful Employment Reporting Deadline To Prioritize FAFSA Release

Title VI Investigations: Upholding Civil Rights Protections

The investigations initiated by the Education Department's Office for Civil Rights focus on potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VI mandates that federally funded institutions protect students from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Significantly, the Education Department has clarified that Title VI protections extend to include Jews, Muslims, and members of other ethnic or religious groups with "shared ancestry."

While the specific nature of the allegations against each university remains undisclosed, the overarching goal of these investigations is to ensure compliance with Title VI and address any instances of discrimination or bias within these institutions. The Education Department aims to promote a more equitable and inclusive educational environment for all students by holding universities accountable for their adherence to civil rights protections.

Implications and Path Forward

The Education Department's proactive approach to investigating allegations of discrimination underscores the importance of fostering inclusive and respectful environments within educational institutions. Universities must take these investigations seriously and cooperate fully with the Education Department's inquiries.

In addition to addressing specific allegations, universities must take proactive measures to prevent discrimination and promote diversity and inclusion on their campuses. This includes implementing comprehensive policies, providing education and training on diversity and inclusion, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding among students, faculty, and staff.

Furthermore, the broader community must remain vigilant in combating discrimination and bigotry. By standing together against intolerance and promoting acceptance and mutual respect, we can create a more inclusive society where all individuals are valued and treated with dignity.

In conclusion, the Education Department's investigations into potential discrimination violations serve as a reminder of the ongoing importance of upholding civil rights protections within educational settings. By addressing these issues head-on and promoting a culture of inclusivity, universities can create environments where all students have equal opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
In the picturesque hills of rural Kentucky lies Hazard, a tight-knit community grappling with economic uncertainties exacerbated by the coal industry's decline.

Against this backdrop, individuals like Haley Autumn Dawn Ann Crank aspire to pursue higher education yet find themselves hindered by geographic constraints and limited opportunities. As Hazard faces a shortage of teachers and other professionals, the need for accessible pathways to higher education becomes increasingly urgent.

Challenges of Access in Rural Kentucky

For Crank and many others in Hazard, the journey to higher education is fraught with obstacles. The absence of local four-year institutions forces aspiring students to confront daunting choices: endure lengthy commutes to distant universities or uproot themselves from their hometowns. These challenges are compounded by economic hardships and cultural barriers, perpetuating a cycle of limited opportunities and outmigration.

The coal industry's collapse has left a void in Hazard's economy, exacerbating poverty and unemployment rates. With traditional job opportunities dwindling, residents are keenly aware of the importance of higher education in securing stable employment and economic stability. However, the lack of accessible educational pathways leaves many feeling trapped, unable to pursue their aspirations without sacrificing their ties to their community.

READ ALSO : Addressing Challenges Faced By Rural Students In Higher Education And Proposing Support Initiatives

A Beacon of Hope: Expanding Educational Horizons

Recognizing the critical role of higher education in revitalizing rural communities, the Kentucky legislature has embarked on an ambitious initiative to bring baccalaureate degrees closer to home. The proposal centers on transforming Hazard's community and technical college into a standalone institution offering select bachelor's programs aligned with the region's workforce needs. By providing accessible pathways to higher education, proponents hope to empower individuals like Crank to pursue their dreams without leaving their hometowns.

The proposed college represents more than just an educational institution; it embodies a vision of economic revitalization and community empowerment. By leveraging the region's strengths and addressing its unique challenges, Hazard's College has the potential to catalyze positive change, offering residents a renewed sense of hope and opportunity.

Navigating Challenges, Embracing Opportunities

However, the path forward is not without its challenges. Financial considerations loom large, with the cost of building infrastructure and sustaining operations posing significant hurdles. Cultural barriers and entrenched attitudes towards higher education must also be addressed to foster a culture of educational attainment within the community.

Despite these challenges, proponents remain steadfast in their belief in the initiative's transformative potential. By providing accessible pathways to higher education, Hazard's proposed college could enhance economic prospects and instill a sense of pride and empowerment within the community. Success will require a collaborative effort that transcends political divides and embraces innovation and adaptation.

In Hazard, amidst its residents' rolling hills and resilient spirit, the vision of a thriving educational hub represents a beacon of hope for a brighter future. As stakeholders work towards realizing this vision, they embody the perseverance and determination that defines Appalachia. This spirit refuses to be determined by its challenges but rather by its capacity for innovation, resilience, and renewal.

As Hazard embarks on this journey to transform its educational landscape, it is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the enduring spirit of rural America. In the face of adversity, Hazard stands poised to chart a new course toward prosperity and opportunity, demonstrating that anything is possible with determination and collective action.
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BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Apr, 2024) China will continue to play a constructive role in resolving the middle East issue on its own merits and contribute to cooling down the situation, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday.

The Chinese side calls on all parties to the ongoing Gaza conflict to immediately ceasefire.

Mao Ning made the remarks while briefing the media during a regular press conference on Thursday's phone conversation between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

During the phone call, Wang said China strongly condemned the attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria and stressed that the security of diplomatic institutions is inviolable and the sovereignty of Iran and Syria should be respected, according to Mao.

Mao added that this round of escalation is the latest manifestation of the spillover from the Gaza conflict, and it's imperative that the conflict be put to rest as soon as possible.

China calls on all parties to the conflict to earnestly implement UN Security Council Resolution 2728, immediately cease fire and stop fighting, and stop the humanitarian crisis, said the spokesperson.

Resolution 2728, which was adopted on March 25, was the first Security Council resolution that demands or calls for a cease-fire in Gaza after the flare-up of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza on October 7, 2023.

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(@FahadShabbir)

Moscow, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Apr, 2024) The Kremlin on Thursday said that Ukraine peace talks due to be held in Switzerland in June made "no sense" unless Russia took part.

Switzerland on Wednesday announced that a high-level conference on the Ukraine conflict would be held on June 15-16, but without Russia.

Ukraine and up to 100 countries would attend the conference at the luxury Burgenstock resort near the central city of Lucerne, hosted by Swiss President Viola Amherd.

"We said many times that the process of (peace) talks without Russia makes no sense," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

Russian President Vladimir Putin mocked the conference, saying during a meeting with his Belarusian ally and counterpart Alexander Lukashenko that "it would be funny if it were not sad."

Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said any action on Ukraine that "ignores Russia's position" was "detached from reality" and had "no perspective".

She also criticised the "peace formula" put forward by President Volodymyr Zelensky, which calls for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory, financial reparations from Moscow and the creation of a special tribunal to judge Russian officials.

"It is common knowledge that the 'Zelensky formula' does not envisage compromises or alternatives and totally ignores the proposals of China, Brazil, African and Arab states," Zakharova said.

She also said Switzerland "cannot be trusted" to be neutral because it "defends Ukraine's positions, supports the Kyiv regime, applies anti-Russian sanctions and adopted strategies that exclude Russia from the European security system".

The United States said it had not yet decided on its participation at the conference but scoffed at earlier Russian allegations that the summit would be a pre-election project by President Joe Biden's Democratic Party.

"Obviously, that is an absurd allegation by the Russian government," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.

"If this is a diplomatic meeting that the Ukrainian government supports and wants to engage in, we certainly support their right to do so," he said.

The Swiss government agreed during a January visit by Zelensky to organise a peace conference this year.

It said in a statement on Wednesday that "there is currently sufficient international support for a high-level conference to launch the peace process".

Traditionally neutral Switzerland has from the start insisted that Moscow must eventually be brought into the talks and has sought to attract China and other emerging powers to the conference.
Paris, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Apr, 2024) Naomi Osaka and Iga Swiatek enjoyed winning returns to the Billie Jean King Cup on Friday to move Japan and Poland closer to the finals as former US Open champion Emma Raducanu survived a "muppet" moment.

Four-time Grand Slam champion and former world number one Osaka last played for Japan in the competition in 2020, since when she has become a mother.

In Tokyo, the 26-year-old defeated Yulia Putintseva 6-2, 7-6 (7/5) to give Japan a commanding lead after team-mate Nao Hibino had beaten Anna Danilina 6-1, 6-0 earlier in their qualifying clash.

Osaka said she was "super-nervous" about playing in Japan for the first time since appearing at the Pan Pacific Open in September 2022.

She soon found her rhythm in the match, hitting 15 aces and no double faults.

"I'm the kind of person that I don't like to disappoint people," said Osaka.

"It would probably devastate me a lot more to lose here than it would to lose in a regular tournament, just because I want to support everyone as much as they support me."

Osaka, whose world ranking has risen from 831 to 193 since she began her comeback this year, has not given up hope of making the Paris Olympics later this year.

However, she may need to go through an appeals process to secure a spot after failing to make a mandatory two appearances in the BJK Cup during the current Olympic cycle.

World number one Swiatek, back on national duty for the first time since 2022, eased past 158th-ranked Simona Waltert 6-3, 6-1 to give Poland the lead over Switzerland in Biel.

Magdalena Frech made it 2-0 with a come-from-behind 6-7 (8/10), 7-5, 6-3 victory over 18-year-old Celine Naef.

"At the beginning I made a couple of mistakes that changed the momentum a little bit but the key is not to overthink it and not make the same mistakes so I'm glad that I did that at the end," said four-time major winner Swiatek.

Switzerland were 2022 champions when they defeated Australia in the final inspired by Belinda Bencic.

However, Olympic champion Bencic is currently off tour after announcing in November last year that she was pregnant.

- Australia on top -

Seven-time champions Australia seized control of their qualifier against Mexico in Brisbane despite losing Storm Hunter on the eve of the tie to a serious Achilles injury.

Samantha Stosur, in her first match as captain, picked Hunter as her number two singles player, but she suffered a ruptured tendon during a practice session.

Daria Saville stepped in and blew Marcela Zacarias off court 6-1, 6-0 in under an hour to put Australia within reach of the finals.

In the first singles rubber against an understrength Mexico, Arina Rodionova opened her first BJK Cup tie in eight years with a 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 win over Giuliana Olmos.

France, the three-time champions, are level 1-1 with Great Britain in Le Portel.

World number 49 Diane Parry gave France the lead with a surprisingly easy 6-2, 6-0 win over 28th-ranked Katie Boulter.

Raducanu, back in the side after an injury-plagued season, pulled Britain level with a 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 win over French number one Caroline Garcia.

Raducanu admitted to a moment of embarrassment at 5-1 in the decider when she mistakenly thought she had won the match.

"I think sometimes I'm just super locked in that I don't get the score," she explained.

"I'm not sure what happened, but it was quite embarrassing. All I was thinking was, 'if I lose this right now I'm going to look like a right muppet'. So I'm very happy that I managed to pull it through in the next game."

Eighteen-time champions United States host Belgium in Orlando with their challenge spearheaded by world number five Jessica Pegula.

Ukraine are playing their home tie against Romania in Florida as they attempt to reach the finals for the first time.

Slovakia lead Slovenia 2-0 in Bratislava while Brazil host Germany in Sao Paulo.

The ties are completed on Saturday with two reverse singles and a doubles rubber.

The eight winners this weekend advance to November's 12-team finals in Seville where they join hosts Spain, defending champions Canada, 2023 runners-up Italy and wild-card Czech Republic.
Niamey, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Apr, 2024) Russian military instructors have arrived in Niger with an air defence system and other equipment as part of the West African nation's deepening security ties with Moscow, state television announced late on Thursday.

Niger's military government agreed in January to step up security cooperation with Russia.

On Friday, African Corps -- seen as the successor of Russia's Wagner mercenary group in Africa -- confirmed it had arrived in Niger.

The Tele Sahel broadcaster showed a Russian transport plane arriving at Niamey airport on Wednesday night.

It said "the latest military equipment and military instructors from the Russian defence ministry" had arrived.

Russia will help "install an air defence system... to ensure complete control of our airspace", the report said.

One instructor was quoted as saying that "We are here to train the Niger army and help it use the equipment that has just arrived.

The equipment is for different military specialities."

"The first flight of African Corps troops and volunteers has arrived in Niger," the group wrote on Telegram.

The Wagner mercenary group had unofficially served the Kremlin's aims in Africa since the 2010s.

Rebranded African Corps and reorganised following the August 2023 death of its founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in a mysterious plane crash, the group is now under the Kremlin's umbrella, signalling a formal acknowledgement of Russia's role in the Sahel.

The head of Niger's military government, General Abdourahamane Tiani, spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 26.

The two leaders discussed security cooperation as well as "global strategic cooperation" against "current threats", authorities said at the time, without elaborating.
The University of Wyoming Department of Music Faculty Recital Series will feature Blake McGee, clarinet, and Brooks Hafey, piano, in a free public performance at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 19, in the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts recital hall.

The program will feature works by 20th century composers exploring a wide range of musical styles, including Ballade by Eric Ewazen; Sonata for Clarinet and Piano by Francis Poulenc; and Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra by William Bolcom.

Hafey has been dazzling audiences with his exceptional musicianship and refined technique since boyhood. As a soloist, he has performed in a wide range of venues throughout the U.S., including Carnegie Halls Weill Recital Hall, and also in France, Italy and Norway. His wide-ranging repertoire spans the works of French Baroque masters.

Hafey is an active chamber musician, collaborative artist and conductor. He has held teaching positions at Gulf Coast State College, in Panama City, Fla., and Sam Houston State University, in Huntsville, Texas. He currently is on Chadron (Neb.) State Colleges music faculty.

McGee, UW Department of Music professor of clarinet, has performed as a member of the Portland Opera, Vancouver Symphony and Oregon Mozart Players chamber orchestra. He currently is principal clarinet of the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra and second clarinet with the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra.

A versatile performer, McGee is interested in styles ranging from traditional classical to folk, free improvisation and avant-garde. He maintains an active schedule of performance engagements, master classes and clinics, including recent residencies in Thailand, China and Montenegro. He regularly collaborates with active living composers on new solo works for clarinet and performs premieres each year.

For more information, call Kathy Kirkaldie, UW Fine Arts coordinator, at (307) 766-2160 or email kirisk@uwyo.edu.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, attended and delivered a speech at the meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers during his working visit to Belarus, Trend reports via the country's Foreign Ministry.

In his speech, he emphasized the role and significance of the CIS as a platform for constructive exchange of views and discussions on bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.

Bayramov noted active cooperation with CIS member states in the fields of economy, investments, trade, transportation, and communications.

According to the minister, the positive dynamics in trade between Azerbaijan and CIS member states in 2023 are an indicator of the expansion of economic ties between the countries.

He stressed that Azerbaijan plays a role as a reliable partner in transit, transport, and logistics between CIS member states and international markets along East-West and North-South routes.

In order to further enhance these capabilities, Azerbaijan has been actively modernizing railways, expanding the capacity of the Alat International Sea Trade Port, and developing the Alat Free Economic Zone, Bayramov explained.

Moreover, the minister pointed out the undeniable role of cooperation and exchanges in the humanitarian sphere in strengthening mutual trust and understanding between CIS member states and fostering good neighborly relations.

He underscored that the CIS is a successful format for cooperation in education, science, culture, healthcare, tourism, sports, and youth affairs.

The minister also announced that the second-largest city in Azerbaijan, Ganja, will host the CIS Games in 2025 and detailed the active preparatory work being carried out for this purpose.

At the same time, Bayramov noted that the candidacy of Azerbaijan's Lachin city has been put forward to obtain the status of the cultural capital of the CIS in 2025.

He reminded that Azerbaijan supported the corresponding plan of events for next year in connection with the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism during the Second World War and highlighted the country's significant contribution to its achievement.

The official also briefed on preparations for Azerbaijan's hosting the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) this year, expressing confidence that hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan will also contribute to strengthening targeted efforts towards transitioning to green energy within the CIS and developing cooperation in this area.

Bayramov also reiterated the role of the CIS as a mechanism for cooperation among member states, expressing hope for the productivity of the meeting.

To note, on the day before, the minister left on a working visit to Belarus.

As part of the visit, he is attending and speaking at the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Minsk. In addition, the minister will participate in various bilateral meetings.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
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U.S. President Joe Biden hosts Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Junior in a historic trilateral summit.



Welcome to VOA Asia Weekly. I'm Chris Casquejo in Washington. That story is just ahead, but first, making headlines:



Chinese President Xi Jinping met with former Taiwan President Ma Ying Jeou in Beijing this Wednesday, according to Chinese state media. Xi said outside interference could not stop the "family reunion" of China and Taiwan, and there are no issues that cannot be discussed. This trip was Mas second visit to China since March of last year.



I've made clear that President Biden and I will not accept that reality again.



U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned China on Monday that Washington will not accept a repeat of the "China shock" of the early 2000s, when a flood of Chinese imports destroyed about 2 million American manufacturing jobs. This announcement comes after her four days of talks with Chinese officials, as the Biden administration plans to push China to change its industrial policy threatening U.S. jobs.



Exit polls show South Korea's left-leaning opposition party, the Democratic Party, and its allies winning a majority in the country's 22 parliamentary elections on Wednesday. This is seen as a setback to the conservative agenda President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose popularity has suffered amid a cost-of-living crisis and a spate of political scandals.



Thailands military tightened security along a western border Wednesday as the Myanmar military junta and an armed ethnic group clashed for the second day in Myawaddy. It is Myanmars most active trading post with Thailand. The Thai government ordered several army vehicles with roof-mounted machine guns to patrol the streets of Mae Sot.



U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday announced plans to upgrade U.S.-Japan military relations, with both sides looking to tighten cooperation amid concerns about North Korea's nuclear program and China's increasing military assertiveness in the Pacific.

"To boldly go where no one has gone before."



On Wednesday night, top figures from business, sports, and politics attended a state dinner honoring Kishida.



Biden hosted Kishida and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Junior in a White House summit Thursday, sending a clear message to Beijing to stop behaving aggressively against its neighbors in the South China Sea. Leaders focused on dealing with Chinese so-called grey zone tactics of intimidation that fall dangerously close to triggering a mutual defense treaty between Washington and Manila. VOAs Patsy Widakuswara has the story.



Ramped up aggression in the South China Sea, with Chinese Coast Guard vessels deploying water cannons and performing other dangerous maneuvers on Philippine boats.



It was a focus of the trilateral summit Thursday between President Joe Biden and leaders of two U.S. allies in Asia  Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.



Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty.



China's so-called gray zone tactics of intimidation, including ramming into ships fall dangerously close to triggering the mutual defense treaty between Washington and Manila.



Marcos did not publicly mention China but couched his words in diplomatic terms often used to target Beijing.



Facing the complex challenges of our time requires concerted efforts on everyone's part, a dedication to a common purpose and an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order.



Kishida is concerned with similar Chinese tactics around disputed islands in the East China Sea, called Diaoyu in China and Senkaku in Japan.



In the midst of compound crises faced by the global community, multilayered cooperation between allies and like-minded countries is essential if we are to maintain and bolster a free and open international order based on the rule of law.



Last week, the Philippines, the U.S., Japan and Australia held joint naval and air operations in the South China Sea to deter Beijing, prompting criticism by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.



China is resolutely opposed to the Cold War mentality and bloc politics, and to words and deeds that make and exacerbate contradictions and undermine other countries' strategic security and interests."



Biden, Marcos and Kishida announced new maritime defense deterrence measures, alongside infrastructure investments in the Philippines and collaboration on global humanitarian assistance efforts.



Patsy Widakuswara, VOA News, Washington.



Visit voanews.com for the most up-to-date stories.

Im Chris Casquejo.



Finally, to Laos, and whats believed to be the largest-ever rescue of endangered bear cubs worldwide.



Sixteen Asiatic Black Bear or moon bear cubs were rescued from the home of a wildlife poacher in Laos last month.



Now theyre thriving on bottle feeding at a sanctuary for the species.



Thanks for watching VOA Asia Weekly.
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((TITLE)) HONEY WINE

((TRT: 9:07))

((Reporter/Camera/Editor: Philip Alexiou))

((Map: Alexandria, Virginia))

((Main characters: 0 female; 1 male))

((Sub characters: 3 female; 2 male))

((Blurb: Gize Negussie wants to introduce Ethiopian culture to Americans through the experience of drinking Tej, known as honey wine.))

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Which one is your

guys favorite?

((NATS)) Honey Wine. Honey Wine.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Yeah. The Honey Wine.

((NATS))

I like sweet.

((Gize Negussie, CEO, Negus Winery))

Thats my moms recipe.

((NATS))

Okay.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Yeah. So, thats the reason I call it Mamas Honey Wine.

((NATS))

Okay.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

When I lived in San Francisco, I got a chance to visit a lot of top wineries, including Robert Mondavi and some other big ones.

((NATS))

And this is semi-sweet, semi-sweet filtered.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

And then I couldn't find any wineries carrying our product or Honey Wine or Tej [Ethiopian Honey Wine]. So, I was like, you know, it's better if I start something completely different for the people who never tried it before, something completely different, which is Honey Wine or Tej. Tej is over 3,000 years recipe that dates back over 3,000 years, the time of Queen of Sheba [wealthy Biblical figure].

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Those guys are from Ethiopia, and in Ethiopia, we drink Tej [Honey Wine] in the different kind of vessel. We call it Berele, B-e-r-e-l-e. So, they toast each other because thats how they celebrate drinking Tej. We call it Tej Honey Wine [A type of mead made of honey, water and yeast].

((Collin

Negus Winery Visitor))

Yeah, so my friend, Molly, found it online, and she recommended it as like the first Ethiopian Winery in the area. I had never had Honey Wine before and I thought, I just, I really wanted to see what it was like. And its truly been a delicious, delightful afternoon.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

So, my mom is, shes very good at it [making Honey Wine]. I told her, Hey, I want to start a Honey Wine [business] everyone introduce. But there is a big Ethiopian community in the Washington, D.C. area outside of Ethiopia. So, I told her, I need to move to D.C. [District of Columbia] or Virginia, so that I can, you know, start my business where my niche markets are. And also, I'll introduce [it] for those who never had Honey Wine before. And Virginia became one of the top destinations for wineries down [in] Purcellville [Virginia]. So, I went to Purcellville and then I checked some of the wineries. And none of them had like carry Honey Wine.

((Nketiah Ink Berko

Negus Winery Visitor))

So, this is my first time. I actually found out about this due to, I think it was a DCist [local publication] profile and maybe The Washingtonian. And the wine is fantastic, especially the Honey Wine. Weve really enjoyed it and no complaints here at all. Well definitely be here again.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Im so glad you guys like it. Thats my moms recipe. Yes. Thats why I call it Mamas Honey Wine. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah. So, instead of like, you know, forget about wines, if I ask you like fermented grape or fermented honey, which one would you pick?

((NATS))

Honey, honey.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Of course, thats why it used to be for a king or royal drink. They are in every household, and they start doing it in their home. But they have their own secret. My mom also, she had, and she transferred it, and here you are.

((NATS))

Awesome, awesome.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

The unfiltered, the 10 percent, I did it two times because I want a little bit honey to pass into the bottles, so that its going to create its own carbonation or bubbling. Thats why when you taste it, there is a little bit bubble. Thats the natural carbonation. You taste that. Yes. I did it, that one purposely because, you know, its a technique.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Today, we are doing filtration from another tank to the new tank.

I have to make sure this one is also locked. All right. This is a filtration pad. So, we are filtering after we aged this like almost six months right now. A lot of work, but we have to make sure there is no yeast passing into the new tank, so that when we package, they [the yeast] are not growing inside the bottle.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))25

So, I'm going to take it the other end to the aging tank which is right here. All right. This is tank number six. This is aging tank. 12% alcohol [unfiltered] finished product. So, what I'm going to do is, it's already connected. Everything is good. So, I'm going to open it down here, and then the alcohol is going to come, or the Honey Wine is going to come and filter through the filtration system, and it's going to go to the new tank. The whole like filtered product is going to come here, and then we're going to package it from here.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Now it's getting darker. Darker because all the Honey Wine is coming through the pads. Right now, I'm going to take a sample, because from the filtration, its coming to the new tank. And I'll take and then check the sensory testing, and the meantime, the alcohol content.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

No bad smell. Healthy. Wow. This is so good. This one is a measurement for alcohol. One point, zero, one, zero [1.010]. Im going to write my report. You see the difference. This one is clear and needs ready to go, ready to package. These ones are still fermenting. That's why it's cloudy.

((NATS))

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

We have a family business back in Ethiopia. So, I grow up like helping my dad. You know, just right next to him, running around, driving cars, like taking care of like doing import export stuff, his paperwork, those kind of stuff. So, I learned a lot of business skills from my parents. Actually, I started a transportation business, which is a limousine business,

((Courtesy: Gize Negussie))

which connected me with the Napa and Sonoma [California] wineries. So, I used to take a group of people in my limousines down in Napa or Sonoma Valley [California].

((end Courtesy))

So, that's why I learned how to make wine. People are inspired. Sometimes I'm like I wish if they tried

((Courtesy: Gize Negussie))

the Honey Wine or the Tej, my moms Tej, because it's delicious. I got a chance to try like top wineries,

((end Courtesy))

like Caymus. But, you know, just to be honest with you, my favorite one is my moms Honey Wine.

((Tiffany Slay

Negus Winery Visitor))

This is a new experience. I wouldnt have thought about that [Honey Wine] before. I prefer red wines on the sweet side. But this one was pretty good, so I made a purchase. Its sweet, nice taste.

((Celia Grove

Negus Winery Visitor))

It was kind of very wild to see a new experience that I had never been exposed to before so close to home. I have never had Honey Wine before, but my father is a beekeeper, so I am pretty familiar with honey. But yeah, I have never had Honey Wine before. I got the semi-sweet, unfiltered today, and its really good. I tend to like sweeter wines.

((NATS))

((Jeri Thuku

Negus Winery Visitor))

I love that its also bringing Ethiopians culture and, you know, drink here in Alexandria. Theres definitely an interest in this, not just from Ethiopians but just from Americans in general. Were very interested in trying something new and so, yeah, very glad that they opened this.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

My dream is to introduce our culture into the United States.

((NATS))

You guys are awesome.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

Thank you so much.

((NATS))

You guys work so hard.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

You guys are amazing, yeah.

((Gize Negussie

CEO, Negus Winery))

To me, it's a big opportunity to introduce something completely different than grape wines.

((NATS))




Its a day few people in the United States look forward to.

Tax Day is April 15, which means Americans have until Monday to either file their income tax return for 2023 or request an extension.

As of March 29, the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, had received more than 90 million tax returns, most of which were filed electronically. About 68% of those 90 million got refunds, which averaged $3,050.

But procrastination is the norm for many, and millions of other tax returns are expected to be filed in the days leading up to the deadline next week. Most Americans have to abide by the April 15 deadline, but state holidays mean residents of Maine and Massachusetts have until April 17.

If an individual is unable to complete their taxes by the deadline, they can file for an extension with the IRS, which gives them an additional six months.

Common tax deductions include property taxes, charitable contributions and medical expenses.

The Civil War and its accompanying financial requirements prompted the first federal income tax on Americans in 1861. The system was modified over the decades, and Congress passed the 16th Amendment in 1909. After it was ratified in 1913, it established the right of Congress to impose a federal income tax.

Nowadays, individual income taxes are the U.S. governments biggest source of revenue, according to the Office of Management and Budget.

For fiscal year 2024, the federal government expects to collect about $2.5 trillion in individual income taxes, accounting for nearly half of its total estimated receipts for the year. By comparison, corporate income taxes make up a much smaller share.

Corporate income taxes are estimated to bring in $612.8 billion, or just 12% of this fiscal years federal receipts.

For some, tax season may be a touchy time. A little more than half of U.S. adults feel as if they pay more than what is fair, considering what they get in return from the federal government, according to a 2023 survey from Pew.

Questions surrounding taxes have long been political in the United States.

Most Americans  about six in 10 U.S. adults  think companies and wealthy people dont pay their fair share of taxes, with Democrats much more likely than Republicans to feel this way,according to the Pew survey.

Nearly two-thirds of Americans support raising taxes on large businesses and companies, and a comparable number support higher tax rates on households with annual incomes above $400,000, according to Pew.

Taxing the countrys richest people is again a top issue in the lead-up to the presidential election in November.

In March, President Joe Biden revealed a plan that would raise more than $4.5 trillion in new taxes over the next decade, mainly by targeting corporations. He is also proposing a 25% tax on people who claim more than $100 million in assets.
Argentina's highest criminal court reported a new development Thursday in the elusive quest for justice in the country's deadliest attack in history  the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center headquarters  concluding Iran had planned the attack and Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group had executed the plans.

In a ruling obtained by The Associated Press, Argentina's Court of Cassation deemed Iran and its Lebanese proxy, Hezbollah, responsible for the bombing in Buenos Aires that leveled the community center, killing 85 people, wounding 300 and devastating Latin America's biggest Jewish community. The court said the attack came in retaliation for Argentina reneging on a nuclear cooperation deal with Tehran.

Alleging Iran's "political and strategic" role in the bombing, the Argentine court paved the way for victims' families to bring lawsuits against the Islamic Republic. In the past three decades, Iran has not turned over citizens convicted in Argentina. Interpol arrest warrants have led nowhere.

"The significance of these grave human rights violations for the international community as a whole invokes a state's duty to provide judicial protection," the ruling said, declaring the bombing of the Argentine Jewish Mutual Aid Association community center a "crime against humanity."

The court decision came as no shock. Argentina's judiciary has long maintained Iran was behind the attack, chilling relations between the countries  particularly after the collapse of a joint investigation. Iran has denied involvement. A spokesperson for Hezbollah, Israel's archenemy on its northern border, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

What some said they found shocking, rather, was the court's failure to provide concrete evidence of Iran's direct involvement or shed new light on the case after 30 years of setbacks and scandals.

"I would never rule Iran out, it's certainly on the list of suspects, but let's do something specific to rule it in," said Joe Goldman, who co-authored a book about the winding investigations into the Jewish community center attack as well as bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires that killed more than 20 people in 1992. "That would be a serious investigation that we haven't seen."

The court singled out top Iranian officials and paramilitary Revolutionary Guard commanders in its determination that Iran carried out the bombings in response to Argentina scrapping three contracts that would have provided Tehran with nuclear technology in the mid-1980s. Its conclusions were based on confidential intelligence reports.

Past inquiries into the bombings have turned up indictments, not just against Iranian officials but also two former Argentine presidents. In 2015, the chief prosecutor in the case was mysteriously found dead in his bathroom the day before he was to go public with claims that top Argentine officials had conspired with Iran to cover up responsibility for the bombing. Over the years, witnesses have been threatened and bribed.

On Thursday, the Court of Cassation reduced by two years the six-year sentence of an Argentine judge accused of paying a witness $400,000, and upheld other sentences against former prosecutors.

Thursday's ruling comes just months ahead of the event's 30th anniversary. Even as the case has stalled for years, Argentine authorities have timed big announcements to coincide with anniversaries of the bloody attack. When marking 25 years since the attack, Argentina designated Hezbollah a terrorist organization and froze the group's financial assets.

Representatives from Argentina's Jewish community, home to some 230,000 Jews, praised Thursday's court ruling as "historic, unique in Argentina."

"It's politically opportune," added Jorge Knoblovits, the president of Argentina's umbrella Jewish organization, pointing to renewed scrutiny of Iran's support for militant groups following Hamas' devastating October 7 attack on Israel.

But for the relatives of those killed in the bombings, the ruling was just a grim reminder of their anguish as the case remains open.

"We hope one day complete justice and truth will come," said Memoria Activa, an association of families of victims of the attack. "And that these judges will stop profiting from our dead."
Police in Ethiopia have arrested 13 suspects over the killing of a prominent opposition figure from the restive state of Oromia, official regional media reported.

The body of Bate Urgessa of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) was found dumped on a road outside the town of Meki on Wednesday, shortly after he had been arrested by "government forces", the party said.

The United States, the European Union and Britain have joined rights campaigners in calling for a full investigation into the killing of Bate, an outspoken politician who had spent several years in and out of detention.

Police in the East Shawa zone where Meki is located have arrested 13 suspects over the shooting, the Oromia Broadcasting Network said on Facebook late Thursday, adding that Bate had been buried at a ceremony in Meki that day.

No details about the suspects were disclosed.

The 41-year-old Bate had been released on bail early last month following his arrest alongside French journalist Antoine Galindo in February.

But he was arrested again late on Tuesday by "government armed forces" at a hotel in his hometown of Meki, 150 kilometers south of the capital Addis Ababa, OLF spokesman Lemi Gemechu had told AFP.

"He was then briefly taken to a detention center in the city," Lemi said.

Bate's family said he was found dead on Wednesday morning on a road on the outskirts of Meki, he added.

'Justice and accountability

There have been calls at home and abroad for a full investigation into his death.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) -- an independent state-affiliated body -- urged both the regional and central governments to conduct a "prompt, impartial and full investigation" into Bate's killing.

The United States also called for a full investigation, the State Department's Bureau of African Affairs said in a statement on X on Wednesday.

"Justice and accountability are critical for breaking the cycle of violence," it added.

The British ambassador in Ethiopia, Darren Welch, issued a similar message, adding: "As well as justice and accountability, political dialogue is needed to end the cycle of violence affecting civilians in Oromia."

The EU ambassador to Addis Ababa, Roland Kobia, also said he supported the EHRC call, saying on X: "This is part of the need to ensure accountability and justice, and reconciliation."

The largest and most populous region of Ethiopia, Oromia has been in the grip of an armed insurrection since 2018.

The OLF renounced armed struggle that year after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, himself an ethnic Oromo, came to power, prompting the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) to split from the party.

Federal forces have been fighting OLA rebels in Oromia ever since, while peace talks have failed to yield meaningful progress.

Classified as a "terrorist organization" and referred to as OLF-Shane by Addis Ababa, the OLA has been accused by the government of orchestrating massacres, which the rebels deny.

The authorities in turn are accused of waging an indiscriminate crackdown that has fueled Oromo resentment.

The Oromo ethnic group accounts for about a third of the 120 million inhabitants of Africa's second most populous country.
Belgium authorities are investigating suspected Russian interference in upcoming European parliamentary elections, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said Friday, after claims that lawmakers were paid to promote Kremlin propaganda.

De Croo added that Belgium's intelligence service has confirmed the existence of pro-Russian networks acting in several European countries, including Belgium, to undermine support for Ukraine.

"According to our intelligence service, the objectives of Moscow are very clear," he added. "The objective is to help elect more pro-Russian candidates to the European Parliament and to reinforce a certain pro-Russian narrative in that institution."

Moscow has previously denied similar allegations of attempting to sway Western elections.

The allegations come before polls on June 6-9 to elect a new EU Parliament. They also come as Ukraine's self-defense is at a critical juncture more than two years after Russia's invasion.

As promised aid has been held up in Western countries like the United States, Russia has maintained a slight advantage in the war.

"A weakened European support for Ukraine serves Russia on the battlefield," De Croo said.

According to De Croo, the probe was launched after Czech authorities found pro-Russian individuals in Brussels seeking to influence lawmakers on adopting a pro-Kremlin agenda.

De Croo said that cash payments seemed to have been made outside of Belgium, but interference has occurred in Brussels.

A similar event occurred last year, when European lawmakers were accused of being paid to promote Qatari and Moroccan interests, an allegation both countries denied.

De Croo said, "We have a responsibility, and our responsibility is to uphold that every citizen's right to a free and safe vote can be maintained."

The prime minister has requested an urgent meeting at the European Union's Agency for Criminal and Justice Cooperation to discuss the matter and advise the EU's anti-fraud office to prosecute the case.

Some information for this report came from Reuters, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Representative of the President of Azerbaijan for special assignments Elchin Amirbayov made a working visit to Slovenia, Trend reports.

During the visit, Amirbayov held meetings with Adviser to the President of Slovenia on International Relations Zlatko Sabic, Secretary of State for International Affairs in the Office of the Prime Minister of Slovenia Vojko Volky, Vice-President of the National Assembly Daniel Krivets and Director General for Political Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Matej Norcic.

During the meetings, satisfaction was expressed with the current level of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Slovenia. 2026 will mark the thirtieth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. In this regard, the importance of further development of cooperation in a number of areas, including economic and energy, was emphasized. In this regard, the Minister of Environment, Climate and Energy of Slovenia visited Azerbaijan to participate in the 10th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 2nd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council, held in Baku in March this year.

Regarding parliamentary cooperation, it was noted that intensifying contacts and mutual visits would help strengthen bilateral relations. At the same time, the importance of demonstrating mutual support within the framework of multilateral international parliamentary platforms was touched upon.

During the meetings, issues of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will be hosted by Azerbaijan, relations with the European Union, issues of the regional and international agenda were discussed.

Representatives of Slovenia congratulated Azerbaijan on the occasion of COP29, and emphasized that the climate conference is of great importance in connection with the changes observed in the world, and expressed their readiness to closely cooperate with the Azerbaijani side in preparation for COP29.

The representative of the President of Azerbaijan for special assignments informed the Slovenian side in detail about the progress of negotiations on the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Noting that a historic opportunity has arisen to establish lasting peace and stability in the region, it was emphasized that Armenia must refrain from controversial statements and provocative steps and respect the norms and principles of international law. At the same time, it was emphasized that the creation of military infrastructure in the areas bordering Azerbaijan, the propaganda of militarism in the region, the trilateral meeting in Brussels on April 5, 2024, the arming of Armenia at the expense of the US budget could lead to the creation of dividing lines and tension in the region.

During the meetings, the heritage of Mehdi Huseynzadeh Mikhailo was touched upon, which plays a special role for the peoples of the two countries and is a symbol of friendship.

During the visit, Amirbayov gave an interview to the news program Dnevik, broadcast on the leading Slovenian television channel RTVSLO (TV Slovenija 1), as well as the Slovenian daily newspaper Delo.
African diamond producers, led by Botswana, are demanding a review of the tracking and verification system that European Union and G7 nations introduced March 1.

Under the arrangement, diamonds entering EU and G7 countries - which represent 70% of the global diamond market - have to be sent to Antwerp, Belgium, for certification, in an effort to prevent the importation of sanctioned Russian diamonds.

The traceability initiative has resulted in clearance delays and disruption to the supply chain. African diamond producers argue that has resulted in added costs.

But Belgium and the EU say steps are being taken to minimize delays.

A Belgian official told VOA the turnaround time for the certifications has improved, with all shipments processed within 24 hours.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, also said delays resulted from importers not providing the necessary documentary evidence. He said African countries were bearing no increase in production costs, because expenses were borne by the mining companies.

From the onset, we have taken the concerns raised by African diamond producers about the introduction of G7-EU sanctions against Russian diamonds seriously," the official said. "This is the reason why we have taken those concerns into account from the very beginning of our discussions and have tried to fully address them.

"Belgian authorities have also reached out to a number of African producers between September 2023 and February 2024 to listen, explain and adjust the ongoing work on the implementation of sanctions against diamonds from the Russian Federation.

An EU official responding to VOA inquiries also said African producers concerns were considered from the onset. She said meetings were held among the EU blocs representatives, the United States and Botswana's government.

Botswanas president, Mokgweetsi Masisi, recently said the EU and G7 countries had not officially responded to a letter from African producers regarding concerns about the new tracking system.

The EU representative said the response had been delayed because it was being drawn up as a collective G7 reply.

On Thursday, Masisi told Frances minister of state for development and international partnerships, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, that G7 countries should reconsider the traceability initiative.

"Tell them that will be a regression in terms of our own development and an ominous threat to our own existence, and everything that we base our growth on," Masisi said. "We just think that because they did not engage sufficiently, they havent come to appreciate what the threats are to industry and to livelihoods and the economies.

Botswana is the worlds second-largest producer of diamonds after Russia. Its diamond exports last year were worth $7 billion.
At the Chinese Foreign Ministrys regular news conference on April 3, spokesperson Wang Wenbin commented on rising tensions between the Philippines and China, saying:

The Philippines keeps accusing China of intimidating smaller countries without mentioning at all the Philippine occupation and encroachment on Chinas territory in Nansha Qundao. That is a real propaganda trap. The Renai Jiao issue is not a case of the big bullying small but unfulfilled promises and deliberate provocations 

The comment came amid growing tension between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea.

He added, The Philippines has been pursuing selfish gains at the expense of the consensus reached by countries in the region. This is the main reason why the situation in the South China Sea has escalated and become more complicated.

That is false.

First, it is worth noting the instances documented by the Philippine coast guard and independent media of Chinas gray zone activities and aggressive actions toward Philippine vessels. For instance, on April 4, Jay Tarriela, spokesperson of the Philippine coast guard, reported that Chinas coast guard used water cannons to threaten two Filipino fishing ships. China has also used collision and ramming tactics, undersea barriers and a military-grade laser to stop Philippine resupply and patrol missions.

In addition, there is no official promise between the Philippines and China. China has alluded to a supposed gentlemans agreement established between China and former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

Current Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. noted that he was not made aware of such an agreement  it was never written down  and he was horrified by the idea 

He also issued a statement: Let us not fall into the trap set by Chinese propaganda of refocusing the debate on a so-called promise, while deflecting attention away from Chinas government, thereby freeing and allowing them to continue with their illegal activities.

The deal was semicorroborated by former Philippine presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and further clarified by Duterte himself on April 12. Duterte has stated the agreement was to maintain the status quo in the South China Sea but not to limit the Philippines sovereignty. Roque similarly noted that the status quo did not mean ceding the Philippines claims to territory such as the Second Thomas Shoal, which China calls Renai Jiao.

The Second Thomas Shoal has been long disputed. In 1999, the Philippines purposefully grounded its naval ship BRP Sierra Madre to affirm that the shoal was Filipino territory. Filipino soldiers still live on Sierra Madre, and tensions have risen over China blocking their resupply missions.

Finally, Chinas claims to the South China Sea are neither internationally recognized nor recognized by many ASEAN countries.

Chinas territorial claims, marked on the nine-dash line, extend to about 90% of the South China Sea, violating many of its neighbors claims to sovereignty, including the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Even more, the sovereignty claims made by Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson openly ignore international law. In 2016, the Philippines brought a case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, or PCA, at The Hague, Netherlands, over Chinas territorial claims in the South China Sea. The court ruled that Chinas territorial claims were groundless, with no legal foundation. It further ruled that Second Thomas Shoal lies within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Yet, China continues to ignore the ruling.

Furthermore, Chinas claims  that the Philippines stoked tensions by bringing in other actors  are also false. The Philippines became closer with the U.S. after a rise in gray zone activities by China.

The United States has also tried to engage in a dialogue with China. On April 2, U.S. President Joseph Biden called Chinese President Xi Jinping to express concerns over rising tensions and even reportedly discussed visits by the U.S. secretary of state and treasury secretary to China.

Despite Bidens call, China launched a Peoples Liberation Army, or PLA, patrol the same day the Philippines, U.S., Japan and Australia held a joint maritime exercise.

Notably, the Russian Foreign Ministry attempted to capitalize on this situation with false claims that the current dispute is the fault of Western expansion.

The U.S. and the Philippines have had a mutual defense agreement since 1951, so their current joint actions are simply an affirmation of that agreement.

On April 11, Biden affirmed U.S. support, stating, Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty.

Chinese and Russian attempts to blame the West fail to recognize the right of countries such as the Philippines to have their own security and foreign policy and to strengthen alliances with other countries, including the United States.
Heavy rains pounding different parts of Kenya have led to the deaths of at least 13 people and displaced some 15,000, the United Nations said, as forecasters warned more rains can be expected until June.

The U.N Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, citing the Kenya Red Cross Society, said Thursday that nearly 20,000 people have been affected. That includes the estimated 15,000 displaced by heavy rains and flash floods across the country since the start of the wet season in mid-March.

The East African country has seen thousands of people killed by flooding in previous rainy seasons, mostly in the lake regions and downstream of major rivers.

The Kenya Red Cross Society told The Associated Press that five major roads were cut off by the floods, including Garissa Road in northern Kenya, where a bus carrying 51 passengers was swept away on Tuesday. All passengers were rescued.

Kenyas disaster management agency issued a flood warning to residents of Lamu, Tana River and Garissa counties that are downstream of Tana River after flooding breached dams upstream. Residents have been urged to move to higher ground.

So far, nine out of 47 counties in the country have reported flooding.

Mudslides have been reported in the central regions. On Tuesday four people were killed in Narok county, in the western part of the country.

The Kenya Red Cross Society's secretary general, Ahmed Idris, told Citizen TV that "lifesaving assistance" including shelter and clean drinking water was being offered to those displaced and are living in camps to avert outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

The rainy season is expected to reach its peak towards the end of April and subside in June, according to the meteorology department.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will kick off a three-day visit to China Saturday, aiming to double down on Germanys deep economic ties with China amid rising trade tension between Beijing and the European Union.

Making his first trip to China since his government released its first China strategy in July, stressing the need to lower economic dependence on China, Scholz will be accompanied by executives from major German companies, including Siemens, Volkswagen and Bayer, and three Cabinet ministers.

Some analysts say bilateral economic relations will be the main focus of Scholzs trip.

He will try to focus on the positive things in the German-China relationship and try to foster more partnership and cooperation in critical areas relevant to key German industries, Max Zenglein, chief economist at the Mercator Institute for China Studies in Berlin, told VOA in a video interview Wednesday.

The visit comes as some key German industries see falling revenues in China. According to automobile company data reported by Reuters Wednesday, several German premium carmakers have seen China sales fall significantly in the years first quarter, with Mercedes-Benz and Porsche showing double-digit percentage falls in their sales in China.

In addition, a recent report by the New York-based research firm Rhodium Group found that Germanys automotive industry faces fierce Chinese competition, with German companies market share in China falling 4% since 2018.

The losses have come mainly from volume producer Volkswagen, which sold fewer cars in China in 2023 than it did in 2013, the report said, adding that the market share of Volkswagens Chinese venture fell to the lowest point in a decade even though the overall passenger vehicle market in China grew by 5.6%.

Instead of reevaluating their approach to the Chinese market, Rhodium Group found that some of these companies have reinvested the profits they made in China in the country in a push to remain competitive.

Zenglein said Scholz will likely focus on helping some German companies that rely heavily on China to maintain their economic interests in the country during his visit.

Scholz may feel the need to signal to the corporate sector that he is willing to give the appropriate political flanking for their economic interests, he told VOA.

Other experts say some German companies are struggling to adapt to changes taking place in the Chinese market because they have become too reliant on the benefits the market offers.

At a time when the German economy is facing pressure from multiple fronts, including the countrys need to support Ukraine and the sluggish economic performance, the German government will try to maintain a close economic and trade relationship with China in the short term so German products can keep selling to the Chinese market, said Zhang Junhua, a senior associate at the European Institute for Asian Studies in Brussels.

However, he said he thinks these efforts will contradict the German governments call for companies to reduce economic dependence on China.

Since Germanys economic performance remains sluggish, the government has to give in to pressure from the business sector and make compromises on executing the China Strategy, which urges German companies to de-risk from China, Zhang told VOA by phone.

German companies "swim against the international trend"

Meanwhile, the EU has launched a series of antisubsidies investigations against green energy products imported from China, including electric vehicles and wind turbines.

EU Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said the bloc needed a more systematic approach to handle the investigations. We need to do it before it is too late, [and] we cant afford to see what happened on solar panels happening again on electric vehicles, wind or essential chips, she said Tuesday, referring to Chinas dominance in the European solar panel market.

In response, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said Thursday that it resolutely opposed the EU investigations, calling them a protectionist act that harms the level playing field in the name of fair competition.

China will closely monitor the European side's subsequent movements and reserves the right to take all necessary measures, the ministry said in a statement.

While Scholzs chief economic adviser, Joerg Kukies, said Berlin supports the EUs antisubsidy probe into Chinese electric vehicles at a think tank event in Berlin last September, Scholz told German business weekly Wirtschaftswoche in an interview the same month that he is not convinced about the need for the EU to impose tariffs on Chinese EVs.

"Our economic model should not be based or rely on protectionism  but on the attractiveness of our products, Scholz said in the interview.

In Zengleins view, some German companies growing investment in China is swimming against the international trend. The trend is driven by capital-intensive sectors like automotive and chemical.

According to the Rhodium Group report, major German carmakers such as Volkswagen and German chemical group BASF continue to increase their investments in China.

Russia, green energy industries

While bilateral economic relations will dominate the agenda of the trip, Zenglein and Zhang said they think Scholz will still try to express German concern about Chinas close partnership with Russia and their uneasiness about Chinese overcapacity in the green energy industries.

Germanys concern about Chinas partnership with Russia will be a main element of the discussion because Scholz has a strong opinion about this, Zhang told VOA. But since Germany doesnt have effective measures to pressure Beijing, Scholzs warning wont have much influence on how China evaluates its partnership with Russia.

In Zengleins view, Scholz will try to brush over concerns about geopolitical risks quickly. He will try not to get too hung up on the negative aspects of bilateral relations that might be counterproductive to positive developments in the bilateral economic relations, he said.
German officials are interrogating an Iraqi couple who are suspected of committing crimes that may amount to genocide while they were associated with the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria between October 2015 and December 2017.

The German federal public prosecutor general released a statement Wednesday saying Twana H.S. and Asia R.A. are strongly suspected of genocide according to the German Code of Crime against Yazidis, a religious minority that was targeted by the Islamic State militant group in 2014.

The two, who were not further identified, were arrested this week in Regensburg and Roth County, Germany.

In March, the investigating judge at the Federal Court of Justice issued arrest warrants for them and ordered that they be placed in pretrial detention. It has been reported that the couple are originally from the Iraqi Kurdistan region.

Prosecutors said the couple held a then-5-year-old Yazidi girl; they enslaved a then-12-year-old Yazidi girl as well. Twana repeatedly raped both children. To this end, Asia prepared the room and put makeup on one of the girls.

Islamic State attacked Yazidis in the Sinjar region in Iraq on August 3, 2014, with a systematic plan to commit genocide against the Yazidis because it considered them to be religious infidels.

According to Yazidi sources, the extremist group killed thousands of people and enslaved approximately 6,500 people, mainly women and children. Mirza Dinnayi, a founder of the nongovernmental organization House of Coexistence in Sinjar, told VOA there are still about 2,650 women and children missing.

IS attacks in Sinjar displaced more than 375,000 people from their homes. After more than nine years, most of them still live in a dozen camps in Iraqi Kurdistan and northeastern Syria.

More than 80 mass graves of Yazidis from Sinjar were found in the region. Half of them have not been exhumed. So far, the remains of 200 of the victims have been identified using DNA technology.

The parliaments of several countries and international institutions, including the U.S., U.K., Belgium, Netherlands, Canada, Australia, Armenia and Germany, have labeled the atrocities as genocide.

It is not the first time a court in Germany will try IS members for genocide crimes against Yazidis. On November 30, 2021, a court in Frankfurt found 29-year-old Taha al-Jumailly, an Iraqi national, guilty of involvement in the slaughter of more than 3,000 Yazidis and enslavement of 7,000 women and girls by IS jihadists in 2014-2015. The court ruling included the murder of a 5-year-old girl the defendant had enslaved and chained to a window, leaving her to die in scorching heat.

Irfan Ortach, chairman of the Central Council of the Yazidis in Germany, said after the German parliament recognized the massacre of Yazidis by jihadists from the Islamic State in Iraq as genocide" in January 2023, the perspective of courts in Germany changed on the role of women in the atrocities committed in Iraq and Syria.

Ortach told VOA that prior to that there was an understanding in German courts that women had no role in the radical organization and its acts. But now they are equally subject of investigations and trials.

The Regensburg case will likely be similar to the Frankfurt case in terms of the nature of crimes and the ages of the victims.

According to the German federal prosecutors office, before leaving Syria in November 2017, Twana H.S. and Asia R.A. handed the girls over to other IS members. Yazidi activists say both girls are now under German authorities protection.

This story originated in VOAs Kurdish Service.
U.S. President Joe Biden delivered a stern, one-word warning to Iran on Friday as the world braced for Tehran to exact revenge for a deadly Israeli airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus, Syria.

Dont, Biden said to reporters following a speech on domestic policy at an event in New York City.

We are devoted to the defense of Israel, the president said in response to questions from reporters. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed."

Bidens comments followed similar expressions of support from top U.S. defense and diplomatic officials over the past several days and come as the U.S. military takes steps to ensure growing hostilities between Israel and Iran do not engulf the Middle East in a wider war.

"We are moving additional assets to the region to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase protection for U.S. forces," a U.S. defense official told VOA Friday. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, declined to share additional details.

Even as U.S. officials warned Iran against seeking revenge, a key Iranian proxy sprang into action.

Lebanese Hezbollah late Friday fired dozens of rockets into northern Israel.

The Israel Defense Forces said it detected about 40 rockets crossing from Lebanon into Israel, some of which were intercepted by air defense systems.

The IDF also said it was able to intercept two explosive drones that Hezbollah militants had used to target Israel earlier Friday.

It is unclear whether the rocket and drone attacks by Hezbollah were part of an effort by Iran to retaliate for the Israeli strike on Irans diplomatic compound earlier this month, which killed three senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders, including General Ali Reza Zahdi, who led Irans elite Quds force.

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned Wednesday that Israel "must be punished and will be punished for the April 1 attack, days after one of his advisers said Israeli embassies are "no longer safe."

U.S. diplomatic officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have been reaching out to counterparts in Turkey, China and Saudi Arabia, urging them to make clear to Tehran that escalation is not in anyones interest, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters Thursday.

But the U.S. push for de-escalation has been accompanied by expressions of strong support for Israel in the face of potential Iranian aggression.

We are in constant communication with our Israeli counterparts about making sure that they can defend themselves, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters early Friday, describing Irans threat to retaliate as very credible.

We take our commitment to helping Israel with their self-defense very seriously, Kirby said. It is an ironclad commitment.

During a call Thursday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also offered Washingtons backing to Israel.

Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, according to a Pentagon readout of the conversation.

The U.S. statements and the movement of additional resources to deter Iranian aggression, however, have done little so far to ease growing concerns.

We are very worried about potential escalation in a situation that seems to be escalating on a daily basis, said United Nations spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

Our message, which has been sent publicly and privately, is to avoid any escalation and work toward de-escalation of the tensions, Dujarric told reporters Friday.

VOAs Patsy Widakuswara and Margaret Besheer contributed to this report.
Israel prepares to be attacked by Iran and the FBI is concerned about a terrorist attack inside the United States. An update from Kyiv on Ukraines new military conscription law, and a look at the Japan-U.S.-Philippines summit and the plight of Sudanese refugees in need of health care.
Israel is keeping up its war in Gaza but is also preparing for scenarios in other areas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday, amid concern that Iran was preparing to strike Israel in response for the killing of senior Iranian commanders. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on Thursday denied his sons that were killed in an Israeli strike this week were fighters for the group. He said "the interests of the Palestinian people are placed ahead of everything." Has the conflict reached an inflection point? VOA's Lori Lundin put the question to Elliott Abrams, senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington. Russian missiles and drones destroyed a large electricity plant near Kyiv on Thursday. And using microrobots to battle cancer and other diseases.
The Israeli government Friday released video it said showed the first humanitarian aid trucks entering northern Gaza through a newly opened aid corridor.

In posts on the agencys official X account, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, the Israeli agency for the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories  COGAT  displayed video it said showed trucks entering Gaza both late Thursday and Friday.

In its post, COGAT, which oversees supplies moving into Gaza, reported 213 aid trucks had been inspected and moved into Gaza through the crossing.

The statement said the trucks had undergone rigorous checks by security authorities with the Israeli Ministry of Defense Land Crossings Authority at the Kerem Shalom crossing and were accompanied by Israel Defense Forces.

Both the Reuters news agency and the French news agency AFP said they could not confirm the authenticity of the video or the exact location of the newly-opened crossing.

Meanwhile, a team of medical personnel from the World Health Organization, or WHO, reported Friday no building or road had been left intact in Khan Younis, following a tour of the southern Gaza strip this week.

At a briefing in Geneva, WHO released video of three medical facilities the team visited this week  the Nasser Medical Complex and Al-Aqsa and Al-Khair hospitals  following the withdrawal of Israeli troops.

They reported all facilities were found to be completely non-functional, with no oxygen supply, no water, no electricity and no working sewage systems. The Nasser Medical Complex, which WHO officials said had been the backbone of the south Gaza health system, is now mostly rubble.

In north Gaza, the Al-Shifa Hospital also revealed a grim scenario. It was shocking to realize that the hospital's open spaces were filled with makeshift graves for people that lost their lives there.

No letup in hostilities

Israeli media reported that Hezbollah militants fired dozens of Katyusha rockets from Lebanon into northern Israel on Friday. No injuries were reported.

Earlier, Palestinian and Israeli media sources reported Israels military shot two Palestinians dead early Friday near the West Bank city of Tubas.

Media reports said one man was killed when Israeli soldiers opened fire on his vehicle in Tubas. Another Palestinian was shot and killed by Israeli gunfire during a military raid in the al-Fara refugee camp, south of Tubas.

Israels military did not immediately comment on the reports.

The latest violence followed the announcement Thursday of what the military called "new and improved measures" to bring humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, including construction of a new land crossing in northern Gaza.

Military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a video statement that the new crossing would "enable more aid to flow directly to civilians in the areas that have been challenging for the trucks to access."

International humanitarian groups have complained for months about obstacles to bringing aid by truck into Gaza, citing delays imposed by the Israeli military and a lack of safe access to areas such as northern Gaza due to the fighting.

Hagari said Israel expects 50 trucks per day to pass through the new crossing and that the total number of trucks reaching the Gaza Strip each day will gradually rise from 350 to about 500.

The United Nations says about 500 trucks per day were bringing aid to Gaza before the Israel-Hamas war began in October.

In a phone call Wednesday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States expects Israel to quickly act on its commitments to facilitate more humanitarian aid and to coordinate with aid groups to ensure there is no repeat of the strike on a World Central Kitchen convoy that killed seven aid workers earlier this month.

As of Thursday, more than 250 humanitarian and human rights groups have called for an end to arms transfers to Israel and Palestinian armed groups.

The State Department said Blinken and Gallant also discussed the ongoing talks about a cease-fire agreement that would include the release of hostages held by the Hamas terror group in Gaza.

The United States said Thursday it has restricted its employees in Israel and their family members from personal travel outside the greater areas of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva due to threats from Iran to retaliate against Israel for the April 1 airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus.

Some information for this report came from Reuters, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse.
Italy's foreign affairs minister said Friday he spoke by telephone with his Iranian counterpart Friday to urge restraint amid fears of a strike on Israel from Tehran.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in a statement that he had appealed to Iran's Hossein Amirabdollahian "for moderation."

"We cannot risk escalation at such an extremely volatile stage. All regional actors must show responsibility," Tajani said.

Tajani's appeal came amid fears that Tehran will retaliate after an Israeli strike earlier this month on Iran's consulate building in Syria killed seven members of its elite Revolutionary Guards.

Israel has stepped up strikes against Iran-linked targets in Syria since the war against Hamas militants in Gaza began.

The war began with Hamas' unprecedented October 7 terror attack against Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 33,634 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry

The U.S. White House said Friday that the threat of violence from Iran remained "real."

Italy, which holds the rotating G7 presidency, is set to host a meeting of foreign ministers on the Italian island of Capri next week.

Tajani also called on Amirabdollahian "to exert a moderating influence on Iran's allies in the region," the statement said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. The Landmark Center in Baku will host a screening of "Suolis/The Jump" movie on April 18 at 18.30 (GMT +4), Trend reports.

The event will be organized by the Lithuanian Embassy in Azerbaijan.

"The Jump" is a documentary film by Lithuanian director Giedre Zickyte.

The script writers are Zickyte and Josh Alexander, and the cinematography is by Rimvydas Leipus.

The film premiered in June 2020.

It narrates the story of Lithuanian sailor Simas Kudirka, who, on November 23, 1970, jumped from a Soviet ship onto an American ship and asked for asylum in the US.

Against the backdrop of rare archival footage and dramatic reconstruction, Kudirka tells this story.

To note, the movie was shown at a number of film festivals.

Admission to the movie show is free, but only with prior registration. Those wishing to watch the documentary must pre-register by sending an email to [email protected] (indicating the names of participants and contact phone number) until April 17, 17:00.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
On April 8, Rwandan President Paul Kagame criticized the Western countries and the Democratic Republic of Congo for accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has caused thousands of deaths while displacing over 7.1 million people.

Speaking to a group of international journalists in Rwanda, Kagame posed the following question to his accusers: Why are we being accused of supporting M23?

He went on to claim that the M23 rebels were fighting to defend the minority Tutsis of Rwandan origin who live in Congo:

For those accusing us, actually, I should accuse them of not supporting M23 because it is as if they agree with the injustice that is being done to this community.

Kagames statement is misleading.

The United States has imposed multiple sanctions on M23 and its leaders for committing human rights abuses in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

During a February 20 U.N. Security Council briefing on the situation in the DRC, Ambassador Robert Wood, alternate U.S. representative for special political affairs in the U.N., said the United States does not in any way support M23 and has repeatedly and publicly called for the government of Rwanda to end its support to this group.

Wood called on the international community to take immediate steps to end the fighting in eastern DRC and de-escalate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda," adding that millions of people are already exposed to a grave humanitarian crisis and that the scale of displacement, human rights abuses, gender-based violence, and suffering is appalling.

Three days earlier, the U.S. State Department had condemned Rwandas government for supporting M23 and called on it to immediately withdraw all Rwanda Defense Force personnel from the DRC and remove its surface-to-air missile systems.

The U.S. sanctioned M23 on August 28, 2023, and imposed financial sanctions on four of its senior commanders, a senior commander of the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) and a senior commander of the DRCs armed forces.

M23, made up primarily of ethnic Tutsis, was formerly part of the Congolese army. It is named after the March 23, 2009, peace treaty between the National Congress for the Defense of the People (CNP) and the DRC government.

In 2012, M23 took control of the city of Goma, the capital of the DRC's North Kivu province, which borders Rwanda, claiming the peace deal was poorly implemented. The DRC army and U.N. peacekeepers defeated M23, with its surviving combatants fleeing to Rwanda and Uganda.

In recent weeks, M23 rebels have been closing in on Goma, causing civilians to flee the area.

Contrary to Kagames claims that M23 is fighting for the rights of the minority Tutsis, the U.N. says the rebels violate the human rights of Tutsis, and that M23s main interest is to control North Kivus mineral resources.

According to various U.N. reports, Kigali exploits Congos natural mineral resources through the M23 rebels.

In 2022, Congo said it was losing close to $1 billion a year in minerals smuggled into Rwanda.

In 2018, the U.N. sanctioned M23 and some of its leaders for serious violations of international law by targeting women and children in situations of armed conflict in the DRC including killing and maiming, sexual violence, abduction, and forced displacement.

On June 9, 2022, the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, which was founded and is funded by the U.S. government, cited ample evidence that rebel groups, including M23, control strategic but informal supply chains running from mines in the Kivu into the two countries.

It added that M23 and other rebel groups use proceeds from the trafficked gold, diamonds and coltan to buy weapons, recruit, and control artisanal miners, and pay corrupt Congolese customs and border officials as well as soldiers and police.

In a February 2023 report, New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused M23 of perpetrating human rights violations against civilians.

HRW interviewed 81 survivors between March and May 2023, who reported cases of M23 fighters raping women in front of their children and husbands.

In June 2023, HRW uncovered mass graves containing scores of bodies found in the village of Kishishe, North Kivu province in eastern Congo. The victims were villagers and captured militia members that M23 fighters executed between November 2022 and the armed groups departure from Kishishe in April 2023.

On March 27, the U.N. special representative in the DRC, Bintou Keita, told the U.N. Security Council that 7.1 million people have been displaced in the DRC and tens of thousands continue to flee from the violence there.
German flagship airline Lufthansa has announced that it is extending its suspension of flights to and from Tehran until April 18. The airline will not use Iranian airspace during that time, the company said Friday.

The carrier said the decision was taken after a "careful evaluation" using government security assessments about the situation in the Middle East and its own information.

Lufthansa first announced it had canceled a flight from Frankfurt to Tehran last weekend to avoid the crew having to disembark and spend the night in Iran.

Middle Eastern countries and the United States have been on alert for a retaliatory attack by Iran since April 1, when the Iranian embassy compound in Syria was bombed by suspected Israeli warplanes.

Lufthansa and its subsidiary Austrian Airlines are the only two Western carriers that fly into Tehran, which is mostly served by Turkish and Middle Eastern airlines.

The company did not release the actual number of flights that would be affected by the suspension.
Malis junta has issued an order that bans media from reporting on activities of political parties and associations.

Issued by Malis high authority for communication on Thursday, the order was distributed on social media. It applies to all forms of media including television, radio, online and print newspapers.

The ban came one day after the junta suspended all activities by political parties until further notice. The military pointed to a need to maintain public order as the reason behind that ban.

Media outlets that defy the ban could receive warnings, or even closure, the communications authority told one press freedom organization.

Local and international media groups have condemned the development.

The Mali media association Maison de la Presse, or Press House, encouraged journalists to stand tall, remain unified and to mobilize to defend the right of citizens to have access to information. It also encouraged reporters to continue covering politics in the country.

And the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists, or CPJ, called on the junta to immediately lift the ban.

Malian citizens have the right to be informed about developments at this crucial moment in the countrys political life and the press must not be prevented from doing their work, especially on subjects of such significant public interest, Angela Quintal, head of CPJs Africa program, said in a statement.

Malis national commission for human rights, which serves in an advisory role to the government, also expressed concern about the move.

Instead of calming the social climate, these restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms could potentially stir up trouble and tension, which the country does not need, it said in a statement.

The crackdown in Mali takes place at a time of broader instability in the West African country. Mali has experienced two military coups since 2020 and is struggling to respond to threats posed by militant groups tied to al-Qaida and the Islamic State.

Conditions for media reporting there are already dangerous, with a risk of being targeted by militant groups for those on assignment outside the capital, Bamako.

French reporter Olivier Dubois was held hostage for nearly two years by a group affiliated with al-Qaida that abducted him in the northeastern city of Gao in 2021.

He was freed in March last year, along with an American aid worker who had also been kidnapped.

Out of 180 countries on the world press freedom index, where 1 shows the best environment, Mali ranks 113, says Reporters Without Borders.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press.
President Joe Biden is set to welcome Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Monday, with the threat of a Gaza war spillover looming in the background. Security officials are on guard against expected Iranian retaliation for an attack on its consulate in Damascus earlier this month.

On Friday, Iran-backed group Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets and drones from southern Lebanon into northern Israel. While Hezbollah and Israel have exchanged frequent cross-border fire, the timing of the attacks may trigger a significant escalation of the conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, another Iran proxy.

Washington has been pressing Baghdad and other partners in the region to urge Iran to show restraint following the killing of seven Iranian military officers in an April 1 strike attributed to Israel. Tehran has made it clear that it will respond.

Biden on Friday warned Iran against any attack, saying the United States is devoted to the defense of Israel.

A potential escalation will be front of mind for Biden and al-Sudani, who are keen to prevent Israels war from spreading into Syria and Lebanon.

In the earlier months of the Gaza war, Iran-backed groups such as Kataib Hezbollah repeatedly targeted American troops in the region, including in an attack on a U.S. base in Jordan near the border of Iraq and Syria in January that killed three American soldiers and wounded more than 40 others.

Under pressure from Baghdad, shortly after the attack, Kataib Hezbollah announced it was suspending all its military operations against American troops.

The suspension of hostilities from Kataib Hezbollah and other anti-U.S. groups was a condition placed by the U.S. for the Iraqi prime ministers visit, said Sajad Jiyad, a fellow from the Century Foundation think tank.

Troop withdrawal

A top goal in Washington for al-Sudani is progress toward an agreement on U.S. troop withdrawal from his country before a potential change in U.S. administration after the November election.

There are approximately 2,500 U.S. troops still deployed in Iraq, part of the global coalition formed in 2014 to defeat the Islamic State terror group, mostly focusing on counterterrorism roles.

On Monday, a U.S.-Iraq military committee launched in January met to hash out a troop withdrawal timeline.

Biden administration officials have declined to provide details. However, in a background briefing to reporters Thursday, a State Department official said the U.S. has been very satisfied with its partnership with the Iraqi Security Forces and has seen steady improvements in their capabilities.

Energy independence

Biden and al-Sudani will also discuss ongoing Iraqi financial reforms to promote economic development and progress towards Iraqs energy independence and modernization, the White House said in a statement announcing the visit.

Washington wants Iraq to wean itself off Iranian energy despite routinely providing sanctions waivers to allow Baghdad to continue importing electricity from Iran.

The State Department official said Iraqi reliance on Iranian electricity has significantly decreased, citing an Iraq-Jordan electricity project and ongoing talks for more electricity lines between Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Baghdad is also set to ask Washington to ease restrictions on the flow of revenue from Iraqs oil sales.

Since the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, the funds have been held in an Iraqi government account at the U.S. Federal Reserve System and distributed upon Baghdads request. Since late 2022, Washington has restricted its transfers to prevent money laundering benefiting Iran and Syria.

Baghdad will highlight its efforts on that front, focusing on reform in the financial system, especially in the bank system, Iraqs Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein told VOA in a recent interview.

New phase of strategic partnership

Al-Sudani said he aims for a new phase of strategic partnership that supports the sovereignty and independence of Iraq without forgoing fruitful cooperation between Baghdad and Washington.

Our discussions will emphasize the continued importance of our economic relationship, cooperation on combating money laundering and terrorist financing, and using political and diplomatic tools to defuse regional tensions, the Iraqi prime minister wrote in a Foreign Affairs article ahead of his visit.

The fight against terrorism will continue to be a central topic for both of our governments.

The leaders are also set to discuss cooperation on oil and gas, Hussein said. We are talking about American companies coming there and helping the Iraqis in these fields, as well as health, agriculture, high education.

The State Department official confirmed that Biden would also raise the case of journalist Elizabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian citizen kidnapped in Iraq in 2023 by Kataib Hezbollah.

Jeff Seldin, Herow Zangana and Farhad Pouladi contributed to this report.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudanese residents have been working to build their country, the world's youngest nation.

However, many citizens fear a technicality  the lack of a required National Identification Card  may block them from participating in the country's first planned democratic elections in December.

Registration for the polls begins in less than two months.

"I don't think they will allow those without an ID to vote," said a young man, who asked to be identified only as Alex for safety reasons.

Alex, who is a resident of Magwi in the state of Eastern Equatoria, told VOA he has made repeated trips to the immigration offices in the capital, Juba, to get a National Identification Card.

After three failed attempts, Alex became worried he would be locked out of the upcoming election.

"The first challenge I face is the distance," he said. "Secondly is the finance, because traveling from this end to Juba is a bit costly."

Leaders will identify voters

Ter Manyang Gatwech, the executive director of the Center for Peace in Juba, said getting an ID card should be a routine matter.

"Every citizen should have access to a national ID," said Gatwech. "This is a concern because getting an ID in this country is quite expensive. For you to vote, you must have ID."

Gatwech said the government should give citizens national IDs free of charge.

But South Sudan has no plans to issue ID cards to everyone. A spokesperson for the country's elections commission, George Lemi, said that during voter registration, the commission may hire local administrators to confirm people's identities.

"To be eligible to vote, you must be 18 years and above," said Lemi. "You must be a national  which is having a national ID or passport."

Lemi said that if one doesn't have an ID card and is South Sudanese, local leaders can "come and prove and identify you, to give you [a] way or to approve you."

Elections set for December

South Sudan's elections were originally scheduled for 2015, four years after it separated from Sudan. However, the country's civil war and delay in creating a constitution forced the election to be deferred several times.

Now, according to the South Sudan 2023 National Elections Act, voter registration will begin six months before elections, in June.

The elections are scheduled for December 22. For the first time, South Sudanese will get the chance to vote for a president, members of parliament, and several state and local offices.
Pakistan has banned the activities of an Iran-backed Shiite militant group allegedly involved in recruiting and sending young Pakistanis to fight in Syria in support of President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

An Interior Ministry directive, seen Thursday by VOA, identified the proscribed outfit as the Zaynabiyoun Brigade, saying it "is engaged in certain activities which are prejudicial to the peace and security" of Pakistan. It did not elaborate.

A ministry official, who spoke to VOA anonymously because he was not authorized to interact publicly with the media, confirmed the authenticity of the March 29 order and placement of the Zaynabiyoun Brigade on a government list of 79 proscribed organizations.

The United States designated the Zaynabiyoun Brigade as a terrorist organization in 2019, saying it is composed of Pakistani nationals and provides "materiel support" to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or IRGC.

The group has reportedly been mobilizing fighters in Pakistan and among Pakistani refugees in Iran, with the IRGC training them for operations in the Syrian civil war, which erupted in 2011.

In January this year, the counterterrorism department in Pakistan's southern Sindh province reported that it had arrested a suspected member of the Zaynabiyoun Brigade, saying the man had played a role in an assassination attempt on a prominent cleric.

The 2019 attack on Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani in the provincial capital of Karachi killed two of his security guards and wounded a fellow religious scholar but the cleric narrowly escaped, unhurt.

Pakistan officials say Pakistani nationals trained to fight in Syria have been returning home and pose a security threat in a country with a history of deadly rivalry between extremists from the majority Sunni Muslim population and the minority Shiite community.

The sectarian violence has killed thousands of people over the years but lately has subsided.

Islamabad's listing of the Tehran-backed militant group comes amid border tensions stemming from mutual allegations of terrorism.

In early January, Iranian security forces carried out drone and missile strikes inside Pakistan against what they said were sanctuaries for anti-Iran militants. Pakistani forces retaliated with similar strikes inside Iran against what they said were bases of fugitive insurgents.

Separately on Thursday, Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi, held a telephone conversation. Zardari's office said in a statement that the leaders discussed, among other issues, security cooperation.

Zardari underlined the need to enhance the exchange of information to overcome the security challenges being faced by the two countries," the statement said.

The countries share a 900-kilometer border and routinely accuse each other of supporting or not doing enough to stop cross-border militant infiltration.



Fatemiyoun Division

The IRGC is also believed to have formed a militia comprising nationals from neighboring Afghanistan and hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees in Iran. The militia, called the Fatemiyoun Division, has been designated as a terrorist group by Washington.

"The Fatemiyoun Division  preys on the millions of undocumented Afghan migrants and refugees in Iran, coercing them to fight in Syria under threat of arrest or deportation," the U.S. Treasury Department said while announcing the group's designation along with the Zaynabiyoun Brigade in 2019.

"Treasury's targeting of Iran-backed militias and other foreign proxies is part of our ongoing pressure campaign to shut down the illicit networks the [Iranian] regime uses to export terrorism and unrest across the globe," the U.S. statement said.
Palestine Street, in the heart of the northeastern Syrian city of Hasaka, resembles a typical scene in a conflict-ridden part of the Middle East: a crowded market with customers walking through dust-covered stores while the cries of street vendors give a bustling vibe to the place. Nothing out of the ordinary.

But being the curious reporter that I am, I couldnt help noticing something odd. Most stores on the right side of the street have painted Syrian flags on their rolling doors. Stores on the other side, however, don't have such signs  or any other signs, for that matter.

A relative who owns a fabrics store on the street noticed my perplexed look.

I know its very strange, he told me. Thats because all stores on the right side of the street are under the control of the Syrian government. Those on the left side fall under the control of the Autonomous Administration.

The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) was established in 2014, nearly two years after the Kurdish-majority region came under the control of Kurdish forces. This was after a rapid withdrawal of Syrian government forces who were deployed to fight rebel forces elsewhere in the early days of the Syrian civil war.

In the years since, major military gains made by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, particularly against the Islamic State (IS) terror group, have led to the creation of an expanded Kurdish-controlled authority in northeast Syria.

With the support of a U.S.-led global coalition against IS, the SDF now controls about one-third of Syrias territory, making it the second-largest entity in the country after the Syrian government-controlled areas.

The Kurdish-led AANES established a governing system that is separate from that of the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad. Its rules and regulations are enforced by an expansive security apparatus that includes traffic police, general security forces, anti-terror units and other agencies, some of which were trained by the United States and other Western countries.

But the aspects of control and governance here are not straightforward. And the situation of Hasaka's Palestine Street offers a glimpse into the very complex and delicate power dynamics in this part of Syria.

Taxes from store owners on this street are collected by two different tax authorities, depending on what side of the street your store is, said the owner of an electronics store on the Kurdish-controlled side of Palestine Street, a name given to the street by the ruling Baath Party as a sign of support for the Palestinians.

The Syrian government and AANES have different holiday calendars, and respective observances are manifested on this street.

When there is a holiday observed by the Autonomous Administration, all stores on our side close their doors, while the others on that side remain open, and vice versa, the store owner said, pointing to the Syrian-controlled side across the street.

There are only a few steps between a Syrian government-manned checkpoint and its Kurdish counterpart, distinguished by the different uniforms worn by the soldiers on each side.

The narrow kilometer-long street leads to what is known as the Security Square, a small pocket that is one of the last areas under the control of government forces in Hasaka. The rest of the city is controlled by Kurdish forces.

Not far from the city center is a major U.S. military outpost, one of several military installations established by the United States as part of its anti-IS partnership with the SDF.

The U.S. has about 900 troops stationed throughout northeast Syria. They have been instrumental in assisting and advising local Kurdish forces in the fight against IS remnants.

But the U.S. is not the only foreign power that has soldiers on the ground here. In the government-controlled pocket in Hasaka and several other areas, Russia, a strong backer of Assads government, has established a foothold.

Most of Moscows troops were deployed to the region in 2019 following a partial U.S. troop withdrawal that led to a Turkish invasion of parts of northeast Syria. Turkey, which considers the SDF a terrorist organization, has a significant presence in the region after several ground operations against the Kurdish forces.

The presence of so many foreign and local forces, most of whom have been vying for control of this region, has forced local Kurdish authorities to strike a balance, particularly with Syrian government forces, to keep the peace in a country otherwise embroiled in conflict.

Palestine Street represents an uneasy political detente between a nascent governing entity that seeks to thrive against all odds and a weakened central government trying to reestablish a bygone authority. It is also a tangible reminder of Syrias decadelong conflict that is yet to be settled.

This story originated in VOAs Kurdish Service.
Millions displaced and on the brink of famine. Sexual and ethnic violence. Infrastructure destroyed. Aid workers say a year of war between rival generals in Sudan has led to catastrophe, but the world has turned away.

The northeast African country is experiencing "one of the worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory" and "the largest internal displacement crisis in the world," the United Nations says.

It is also on track to become "the world's worst hunger crisis."

Aid workers have called it the "forgotten war" affecting a country of 48 million -- more than half of whom they say need humanitarian assistance.

"People have been killed and raped and assaulted and detained and beaten and taken away for months at a time. We're used to it," said Mahmud Mokhtar, who helped provide volunteer social services in the Khartoum area during the war before finally fleeing to Cairo.

Experts see no end in sight to the fighting, which began on April 15 last year between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Since then, thousands of people have been killed, including up to 15,000 in one West Darfur town alone, according to U.N. experts.

More than 8.5 million have had to flee their homes to seek safety elsewhere in Sudan or across borders in neighboring countries.

The war "is brutal, devastating and shows no signs of coming to an end," said veteran Sudan expert Alex de Waal.

But even if the violence stops now, "the state has collapsed, and the path to rebuilding it is long and fraught," de Waal said.

Before the bombing and pillaging began, Sudan was already one of the world's poorest countries.

Yet the U.N. says that by January, its humanitarian response scheme had only been 3.1% funded and can barely reach one of every 10 people in need.

'Milestone of shame'

"Before the start of the war, there were dozens of international organizations responding across the country," according to Christos Christou, international president of the medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

"Now, there are almost none."

The health system has all but collapsed, and most agricultural land -- the leading employer and once touted as a model for African development -- is out of commission, researchers have said.

Gibril Ibrahim, finance minister in the army-aligned government, said in early March that Sudan had lost "80% of its income."

Days later, the situation became even more precarious when the energy minister declared force majeure over a "major rupture" on an oil pipeline. Oil exports, via neighboring South Sudan, account for tens of millions of dollars in earnings each month.

For desperate civilians, virtually all that remains is mutual aid: volunteers organizing soup kitchens, evacuation plans and emergency health care.

"The world continues to look the other way," said Will Carter, Sudan country director for the Norwegian Refugee Council, which alongside MSF is one of the few humanitarian organizations still operating there.

The war's anniversary is "a milestone of shame," he said, charging that the international community "has allowed this catastrophe to worsen."

On the ground, the RSF now controls most of the capital and the western Darfur region.

The paramilitaries descended from the feared Janjaweed militia, unleashed by former strongman Omar al-Bashir's government to quash an ethnic rebellion.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) charged Bashir with genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes dating from 2003, but Sudanese authorities never handed him over following his overthrow in 2019 after mass protests.

'Pure evil'

During the current war, government forces have used their air power to bomb targets on the ground but failed to gain back much territory and have been blamed for striking civilians.

"A final victory is out of the question," said a former army officer, requesting anonymity to speak freely.

Sudanese analyst Mohammed Latif agreed, telling AFP a win "is impossible" at this point for either side.

"Their troops are tired and their supplies drained," Latif said.

There has, however, been no shortage of abuses against civilians, rights groups say.

"What is happening is verging on pure evil," Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Sudan, said earlier in the war.

Most recently, the army has taken over homes in Khartoum's twin city of Omdurman, according to a pro-democracy lawyers' committee, after similar seizures by the RSF earlier in the fighting.

The lawyers' committee, like other volunteer groups across Sudan, has spent the past year painstakingly documenting violations including summary killings, the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and the forced conscription of children.

The ICC, currently investigating ethnic-based killings primarily by the RSF in Darfur, says it has "grounds to believe" both sides are committing atrocities.

International mediation efforts yielded only truce announcements that were quickly violated.

A U.N. Security Council call last month for a cease-fire also failed to end the war, as did Western sanctions.

The war is "a vortex of transnational conflicts and global rivalries that threaten to set a wider region aflame," said de Waal.

Both sides have sought regional support, experts say, and the United Arab Emirates has been painted as the RSF's main foreign backer, though its leaders deny it.

Washington has signaled talks could restart around April 18, but army-aligned prosecutors have since moved against civilian leaders the international community had looked to as potential partners.

Still, according to de Waal, "it should not be difficult to reach a consensus across Africa and the Middle East that state collapse is in no one's interest."

Against those complex realities, Amer Sohaiel, a displaced man taking shelter in Darfur's Abu Shouk camp, has a simple hope, "that God will help us achieve peace this year."
Plans by the Taliban to block access to Facebook are a further attempt to curtail freedom of speech and silence critics in Afghanistan, according to journalists and activists.

The proposal was announced by the Talibans acting minister of telecommunication and information technologies, Najibullah Haqqani.

In an interview with TOLO News, Haqqani said his ministry was preparing a policy either to restrict or block access to Facebook in Afghanistan.

Haqqani said that blocking the social media platform was in the interest of the nation. He added that because Afghan youth are too uneducated to use Facebook in a positive way, using it is a waste of time and money.

Afghan journalists and activists, however, see the proposal as an attempt to further curtail free expression and media freedoms.

The proposed policy is a continuation of the Talibans repressive restrictions, said one Kabul-based journalist, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals. The journalist said that by blocking Facebook, they [the Taliban] want to limit journalists from sharing news and information and silence activists and [government] critics.

The journalist said that restrictions on social media would have negative impact. With news already being censored across the country, many people turn to Facebook for information, he said.

The Committee to Protect Journalists, a press freedom group, said in a statement said that the Talibans plan would further impede the free flow of information in the country.

According to Statista, an online statistics database, Afghanistan has 3.15 million active social media users, and Facebook is one of the most popular social media platforms. Since the Taliban takeover in 2021, social media platforms have been increasingly used by journalists and others to share information.

Facebook also fills a gap left by the closure of hundreds of news outlets. Since 2021, hundreds of media outlets have closed, said media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, and the Taliban have imposed repressive restrictions on independent media in the country.

These include bans on transborder media, including VOA, its sister network RFE/RL and the BBC. The Taliban also issued media directives and ordered news outlets and journalists to coordinate with officials when preparing content and reporting on events.

But can the Taliban block social media?

It is technically possible to restrict or block Facebook, said Pervaiz Dostiyar, an information technology specialist, adding that the platform is banned in China and Iran.

But it is difficult to ban Facebook since there are always ways to access the platform, such as using VPN, or virtual private network, he added.

The Taliban have had a wide presence on some social media platforms, including X and WhatsApp.

Hamid Obaidi, a former journalism lecturer at Kabul University and the head of the Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization, told VOA that the Taliban have been using social media as the main channel for their propaganda, but now they want to restrict it for others.

Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has cracked down on the Talibans accounts.

Agence France-Presse earlier reported how Meta closed accounts labeled Taliban or Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and two of its state-run media groups. Meta said it was acting to comply with U.S. law that lists the Taliban as a terrorist organization.

Those fighting to protect rights in Afghanistan also rely heavily on the platforms.

Activists use social media in their struggle against the Taliban. They are trying to curtail the protests against them, said Obaidi, who is now in Germany.

Rahela Kaveer, an Afghan womens rights activist in the U.S., told VOA that the Talibans proposal shows that the group is afraid of any information being shared.

They want to silence voices raised against their crime that they committed against women in Afghanistan, she said.

The rights organization Human Rights Watch has found that the Taliban systematically violated the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.

Women are barred from secondary and university education, work and traveling long distances without a close male relative, and are even blocked from going to public parks and gyms.

Since the Taliban takeover, female activists have protested the repressive measures, often using social media to convey their message to the Afghan and international communities.

They do not want the people and the world to know about the womens situation in Afghanistan, Kaveer said.

No further details have been provided about the proposed Facebook ban, and it is not clear when it will be reviewed or enacted.

Ehsanullah Aruobzai and Lina Rozbih from VOA's Afghan Service contributed to this report. This article originated in VOA's Afghan Service.
A senior U.N. official warned of a catastrophic outcome for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians living precariously in war-torn Gaza if humanitarian aid delivery into the territory is not massively expanded in the coming days.

"We have to have a system that allows us to be safe and protected when we deliver aid, and that is the responsibility of Israel as we operate in the territory that they occupy," said Jamie McGoldrick, outgoing U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territories.

Speaking Friday from Jerusalem, McGoldrick told journalists in Geneva that it was difficult and dangerous for aid workers to move around and deliver aid in Gaza, noting that a UNICEF vehicle was hit Tuesday by live ammunition while waiting to enter northern Gaza.

That incident followed the April 1 killing by Israel of seven World Central Kitchen workers who were delivering aid to Gaza, and the attack upon and looting of a 14-truck World Food Program convoy destined for northern Gaza last month.

Such developments illustrate that "the system that we use for our own protection and safety is not working," he said.

Referring to the convoys that were attacked, McGoldrick said, "I think the humanitarian workers there then feared for their own safety. And as far as we know, the deconfliction and notifications system has got flaws.

"We do not have communications equipment inside Gaza to operate properly as you would have in another situation, and secondly, we do not have a hotline or an emergency number to call in case of an emergency incident that arrives, and so it is important that we get that addressed."

McGoldrick said he met with Major General Yaron Finkelman, head of the Southern Command of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), this week and presented him with a list of requests that would enable the delivery of humanitarian aid "safely, effectively and at the necessary scale throughout Gaza."

He said he told the Israeli major general that "we are working in a very hostile area, without the possibility of contacting each other. We do not have radios. We do not have mobile networks.

"If we have a serious security incident, we do not have a hotline. We have no way of communicating with the IDF that we are facing problems at a checkpoint or facing problems en route."

McGoldrick said the major general told him that he would move things forward and that a member of the IDF would be part of a new humanitarian coordination and deconfliction cell to improve the situation of Palestinians in Gaza.

"We have the commitment from the major general, and we are going to keep him to that commitment and make sure we get that set up and running as soon as possible," he said.

McGoldrick noted that not enough aid was entering northern Gaza to satisfy the enormous needs of tens of thousands of people who have been deprived of food, medical care and other lifesaving essentials.

"We can see by the health situation. We can see by the nutritional situation," he said. "Children are showing serious signs of malnutrition, and the fact that the IPC [Integrated Food Security Phase Classification] highlights that 70% of the population is in danger of slipping into famine, we need to see a change in that, but that is not happening."

Another area of great concern, one that is uppermost in the minds of humanitarians, is a potential incursion by Israel into Rafah. McGoldrick said people he met on a visit to Gaza a few days ago were extremely worried about a possible offensive, concerns he shared with Finkelman.

"We have been insisting since day one that we would require time to prepare and pre-position supplies to places where people might move," he said. "We cannot do that right now because we do not have enough supplies coming in on a regular basis.

"We are barely able to feed the people and support the people currently. And if we were to add on another dimension of that contingency planning process for a Rafah incursion, we are nowhere ready for that," he said.

To counter a health system that no longer is functioning, he said, WHO is setting up emergency medical field hospitals all the way up north and in the middle part of Gaza, to try to provide services "if Rafah gets locked into some sort of military incursion and we cannot operate from there."

"We face a real dramatic situation ahead of us," he said.

"And if there were to be a Rafah incursion, figures being mentioned are that of evacuating some 800,000 people from Rafah. There is no space as we see it right now where you can accommodate that number of people," he said.

"We are ringing the alarm bells that we are nowhere near ready to address the needs. We will not be part of helping any people move or be part of any evacuation, but we have to be ready to support them if they arrive at another destination," he said. "Some people have been displaced five or six times already."
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Ammunition [abandoned by Armenian armed forces] was found in Azerbaijan's Kalbajar district, the country's Interior Ministry told Trend.

During the activities carried out by employees of the Kalbajar district police office, nine F-1 hand grenades and explosive devices were discovered in the district's Gozlukorpu village.

Additionally, 16 F-1 hand grenades, two explosive devices, two M-75 hand grenades, four machine gun clips, and a large amount of ammunition were found in Chalakdar village.

The ammunition was removed from the area in compliance with security measures.

Following the liberation of its lands, Azerbaijan began operations in November 2020 to clean its lands of mines, booby traps, and other weaponry left behind by illegal Armenian forces.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
China has surged sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow in turn is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry for use in its war against Ukraine, according to a U.S. assessment.

Two senior Biden administration officials, who discussed the sensitive findings Friday on the condition of anonymity, said that in 2023 about 90% of Russias microelectronics came from China. Russia has used those to make missiles, tanks and aircraft. Nearly 70% of Russias approximately $900 million in machine tool imports in the last quarter of 2023 came from China.

Chinese and Russian entities have also been working to jointly produce unmanned aerial vehicles inside Russia, and Chinese companies are likely providing Russia with the nitrocellulose used in the manufacture of ammunition, the officials said. China-based companies Wuhan Global Sensor Technology Company, Wuhan Tongsheng Technology Company and Hikvision are providing optical components for use in Russian tanks and armored vehicles.

The officials said that Russia has received military optics for use in tanks and armored vehicles manufactured by Chinese firms iRay Technology and North China Research Institute of Electro-Optics, and that China has been providing Russia with UAV engines and turbojet engines for cruise missiles.

Russias semiconductor imports from China jumped from $200 million in 2021 to over $500 million in 2022, according to Russian customs data analyzed by the Free Russia Foundation, a group that advocates for civil society development.

Beijing is also working with Russia to improve its satellite and other space-based capabilities for use in Ukraine, a development the officials say could in the longer term increase the threat Russia poses across Europe. The officials, citing downgraded intelligence findings, said the U.S. has also determined that China is providing imagery to Russia for its war on Ukraine.

The officials discussed the findings as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to travel to China this month for talks. Blinken is scheduled to travel next week to the Group of 7 foreign ministers meeting in Capri, Italy, where he's expected to raise concerns about China's growing indirect support for Russia as Moscow revamps its military and looks to consolidate recent gains in Ukraine.

U.S. President Joe Biden has previously raised concerns directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping about Beijing indirectly supporting Russias war effort.

While China has not provided direct lethal military support for Russia, it has backed it diplomatically in blaming the West for provoking Russian President Vladimir Putins decision to launch the war and refrained from calling it an invasion in deference to the Kremlin.

China has repeatedly said it isnt providing Russia with arms or military assistance, although it has maintained robust economic connections with Moscow, alongside India and other countries, amid sanctions from Washington and its allies.

The normal trade between China and Russia should not be interfered or restricted," said Liu Pengyu, spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Washington. We urge the U.S. side to refrain from disparaging and scapegoating the normal relationship between China and Russia.

Xi met in Beijing on Tuesday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who heaped praise on Xi's leadership.

Russias growing economic and diplomatic isolation has made it increasingly reliant on China, its former rival for leadership of the Communist bloc during the Cold War.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who returned to Washington this week from a visit to Beijing, said she warned Chinese officials that the Biden administration was prepared to sanction Chinese banks, companies and Beijings leadership if they assist Russias armed forces with its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Biden issued an executive order in December giving Yellen the authority to sanction financial institutions that aided Russias military-industrial complex.

We continue to be concerned about the role that any firms, including those in the PRC, are playing in Russias military procurement, Yellen told reporters, using the initials for the People's Republic of China. "I stressed that companies, including those in the PRC, must not provide material support for Russias war and that they will face significant consequences if they do. And I reinforced that any banks that facilitate significant transactions that channel military or dual-use goods to Russias defense industrial base expose themselves to the risk of U.S. sanctions.

The United States has frequently downgraded and unveiled intelligence findings about Russias plans and operations over the course of the war with Ukraine, which has been fought for more than two years.

Such efforts have been focused on highlighting plans for Russian misinformation operations or to throw attention on Moscows difficulties in prosecuting its war against Ukraine as well as its coordination with Iran and North Korea to supply it with badly needed weaponry. Blinken last year spotlighted intelligence that showed China was considering providing arms and ammunition to Russia.

The White House believes that the public airing of the intelligence findings has led China, at least for now, to hold off on directly arming Russia. China's economy has also been slow to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. Chinese officials could be sensitive to reaction from European capitals, which have maintained closer ties to Beijing even as the U.S.-China relationship has become more complicated.
Humanitarians said an international support conference next week for Sudan must be a success, as 18 million Sudanese face crisis levels of hunger while funding for lifesaving programs is running out.

It is essential that we get the levels of funding that will allow us to scale [up] to the extent required, Michael Dunford, World Food Program regional director for East Africa, told reporters from Nairobi.

On Monday, ministers will gather in Paris for a two-part conference co-hosted by the European Commission, France and Germany. There will be discussions on how to move toward a political solution to the conflict, and a separate meeting of humanitarians and international donors for a humanitarian conference for Sudan and its neighbors.

This will take place on the one-year anniversary of the outbreak of the civil war, which has seen food insecurity surge and millions displaced.

As intense fighting continues, the humanitarian tragedy grows worse by the day, Justin Brady, head of the U.N. office for humanitarian affairs in Sudan, told reporters from Port Sudan.

Already, nearly 5 million people are one step away from famine, he said. Recent analysis indicates that famine is expected in parts of Khartoum and Greater Darfur  especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Children are particularly affected, with an estimated 730,000 suffering from severe acute malnutrition. Brady said more than 200,000 children could die in the coming weeks and months if they do not receive urgent assistance.

Humanitarians are especially worried because these are record-high numbers during the harvest season, when food should be available and affordable. But because of the yearlong war between rival Sudanese generals, farmers and pastoralists have fled and their crops and cattle have withered, died or been destroyed.



The lean season will be upon Sudan in June, and then the number of people who are acutely food insecure will likely grow from the current 18 million people.

This is why we are desperately concerned that the 5 million population in emergency levels of food insecurity are likely to move into catastrophic levels in the coming months, said WFPs Dunford. This is really a very real risk of becoming the largest hunger crisis anywhere in the world  if not already.

Despite dangers, bureaucratic difficulties, funding shortages and other constraints, Brady says humanitarians have reached more than 8 million people with aid since the war started.

That assistance is in jeopardy, though, as the U.N. humanitarian appeal for $2.7 billion is just under 6% funded. About $400 million is needed immediately so aid workers can pre-position supplies ahead of the lean season, and an additional $700 million to sustain the response in the coming months as humanitarians launch a famine prevention plan.

Neither of the warring parties is expected to be represented at the Paris conference, but members of Sudanese civil society have been invited to participate.

Sudan is now home to the worlds largest internal displacement crisis, with 6.3 million people forced from their homes in search of safety. Another 1.7 million have fled to neighboring countries. More than 70% of health facilities in conflict areas have stopped functioning.
Twenty years ago this month, photos of abused prisoners and smiling U.S. soldiers guarding them at Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison were released, shocking the world.

Now, three survivors of Abu Ghraib will finally get their day in U.S. court against the military contractor they hold responsible for their mistreatment.

The trial is scheduled to begin Monday in U.S. District Court in Alexandria, and it will be the first time that Abu Ghraib survivors are able to bring their claims of torture to a U.S. jury, said Baher Azmy, a lawyer with the Center for Constitutional Rights representing the plaintiffs.

The defendant in the civil suit, CACI, supplied the interrogators who worked at the prison. The Virginia-based contractor denies any wrongdoing and has emphasized throughout 16 years of litigation that its employees are not alleged to have inflicted any abuse on any of the plaintiffs in the case.

The plaintiffs, though, seek to hold CACI responsible for setting the conditions that resulted in the torture they endured, citing evidence in government investigations that CACI contractors instructed military police to "soften up" detainees for their interrogations.

Retired Army Gen. Antonio Taguba, who led an investigation into the Abu Ghraib scandal, is among those expected to testify. His inquiry concluded that at least one CACI interrogator should be held accountable for instructing military police to set conditions that amounted to physical abuse.

There is little dispute that the abuse was horrific. The photos released in 2004 showed naked prisoners stacked into pyramids or dragged by leashes. Some photos had a soldier smiling and giving a thumbs up while posing next to a corpse, or detainees being threatened with dogs, or hooded and attached to electrical wires.

The plaintiffs cannot be clearly identified in any of the infamous images, but their descriptions of mistreatment are unnerving.

Suhail Al Shimari has described sexual assaults and beatings during his two months at the prison. He was also electrically shocked and dragged around the prison by a rope tied around his neck. Former Al-Jazeera reporter Salah Al-Ejaili said he was subjected to stress positions that caused him to vomit black liquid. He was also deprived of sleep, forced to wear women's underwear and threatened with dogs.

CACI, though, has said the U.S. military is the institution that bears responsibility for setting the conditions at Abu Ghraib and that its employees weren't in a position to be giving orders to soldiers. In court papers, lawyers for the contractor group have said the "entire case is nothing more than an attempt to impose liability on CACI PT because its personnel worked in a war zone prison with a climate of activity that reeks of something foul. The law, however, does not recognize guilt by association with Abu Ghraib."

The case has bounced through the courts since 2008, and CACI has tried roughly 20 times to have it tossed out of court. The U.S. Supreme Court in 2021 ultimately turned back CACI's appeal efforts and sent the case back to district court for trial.

In one of CACI's appeal arguments, the company contended that the U.S. enjoys sovereign immunity against the torture claims, and that CACI enjoys derivative immunity as a contractor doing the government's bidding. But U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, in a first-of-its kind ruling, determined that the U.S. government can't claim immunity when it comes to allegations that violate established international norms, like torturing prisoners, so CACI as a result can't claim any derivative immunity.

Jurors next week are also expected to hear testimony from some of the soldiers who were convicted in military court of directly inflicting the abuse. Ivan Frederick, a former staff sergeant who was sentenced to more than eight years of confinement after a court-martial conviction on charges including assault, indecent acts and dereliction of duty, has provided deposition testimony that is expected to be played for the jury because he has refused to attend the trial voluntarily. The two sides have differed on whether his testimony establishes that soldiers were working under the direction of CACI interrogators.

The U.S. government may present a wild card in the trial, which is scheduled to last two weeks. Both the plaintiffs and CACI have complained that their cases have been hampered by government assertions that some evidence, if made public, would divulge state secrets that would harm national security.

Government lawyers will be at the trial ready to object if witnesses stray into territory they deem to be a state secret, they said at a pretrial hearing April 5.

Judge Brinkema, who has overseen complex national security cases many times, warned the government that if it asserts such a privilege at trial, "it better be a genuine state secret."

Jason Lynch, a government lawyer, assured her, "We're trying to stay out of the way as much as we possibly can."

Of the three plaintiffs, only Al-Ejaili, who now lives in Sweden, is expected to testify in person. The other two will testify remotely from Iraq. Brinkema has ruled that the reasons they were sent to Abu Ghraib are irrelevant and won't be given to jurors. All three were released after periods of detention ranging from two months to a year without ever being charged with a crime, according to court papers.

"Even if they were terrorists, it doesn't excuse the conduct that's alleged here," she said at the April 5 hearing.
A top Kremlin spokesperson said Friday a draft 2022 peace proposal could serve as a starting point for prospective talks between Russia and Ukraine to end their conflict, now in its third year.

During a telephone news briefing with journalists, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov referenced a peace proposal floated during talks brokered by Turkey in Istanbul in 2022. He said peace talks are usually based on something and that plan could provide a starting point.

The proposal reportedly included provisions calling for Ukraine to remain neutral and limit the size of its military. The peace plan was abandoned after the talks broke down.

Peskov on Friday was quick to add that any new peace talks would have to consider several new realities that now exist since those talks two years ago. But he said the peace plan could nonetheless provide a basis for discussion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin made similar comments Thursday during a meeting in Moscow with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Russian media quoted Putin as saying any new peace talks between Ukraine and Russia should be based on the 2022 plan.

In that same meeting, Putin mocked an international peace conference planned by Switzerland in June, saying Russia was not invited to participate. Swiss officials this week insisted Russia was invited to participate but refused.

Putin said that he was always open to negotiations, but that they must be based on reality.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said any peace talks must be based on a Ukrainian plan calling for the withdrawal of Russian troops, restoration of Ukraine's 1991 post-Soviet borders and a mechanism to bring Russia to account for its actions.

Energy facility damaged

Russia in recent days has launched massive air and drone strikes on Ukrainian civilian and energy infrastructure, causing casualties and major damage.

The newest strikes on Friday targeted an energy facility in the southern region of Dnipropetrovsk, which sustained serious damage after catching fire following a Russian drone attack earlier the same day, the Ukrainian military and a regional official said.

The energy facility was not identified in the military report, which only said debris from four downed Russian drones fell near a "critical" infrastructure facility in the Kryvorizka district, setting it on fire.

Ukrainian firefighters put out the fire, and the extent of the damage could not be immediately assessed, regional head Serhiy Lysak said.

More infrastructure damage

Meanwhile, Kherson regional administration head Oleksandr Prokudin said Friday that overnight Russian strikes on the southern Ukrainian region damaged a critical infrastructure facility  without identifying which one.

Prokudin said 15 settlements across the region were shelled, adding that residential areas were targeted in particular. He said no casualties were immediately reported but several houses had been destroyed.

Ukrainian air-defense systems downed 16 of 17 drones launched by Russia at six regions on April 12, Ukraine's air force said in a message on social media.

"The Defense Forces of Ukraine shot down 16 Shahed-type attack UAVs within the Mykolayiv, Odesa, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Vinnytsya, and Khmelnytskyi regions," a Facebook post said.

On Thursday, the Trypilska power plant, a major electricity supplier for the Kyiv, Cherkasy, and Zhytomyr regions located some 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) south of the Ukrainian capital, was destroyed by Russian missiles.

Waning defensive ability

The strike, which left hundreds of thousands of people without electricity, appeared to highlight Ukraine's waning capabilities to repel massive aerial barrages being launched by Moscow.

Ukraine has been pleading with its allies to speed up efforts to cover drastic shortfalls in ammunition and weaponry in recent weeks as a $60 billion aid package remains on hold in Washington as Republican lawmakers refuse to approve it without an agreement on deep domestic policy changes.

During a visit to Lithuania on April 11, Zelenskyy pleaded with Ukraine's allies to give the embattled country more air-defense systems.

"The main task for now is to make every effort to strengthen our air-defense system, to meet the urgent needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, and to consolidate international support so that we can overcome Russian terror," Zelenskyy wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
Malis junta has issued an order that bans media from reporting on activities of political parties and associations.

Issued by Malis high authority for communication on Thursday, the order was distributed on social media. It applies to all forms of media including television, radio, online and print newspapers.

The ban came one day after the junta suspended all activities by political parties until further notice. The military pointed to a need to maintain public order as the reason behind that ban.

SEE ALSO:

Media outlets that defy the ban could receive warnings, or even closure, the communications authority told one press freedom organization.

Local and international media groups have condemned the development.

The Mali media association Maison de la Presse, or Press House, encouraged journalists to stand tall, remain unified and to mobilize to defend the right of citizens to have access to information. It also encouraged reporters to continue covering politics in the country.

And the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists, or CPJ, called on the junta to immediately lift the ban.

Malian citizens have the right to be informed about developments at this crucial moment in the countrys political life and the press must not be prevented from doing their work, especially on subjects of such significant public interest, Angela Quintal, head of CPJs Africa program, said in a statement.

Malis national commission for human rights, which serves in an advisory role to the government, also expressed concern about the move.

Instead of calming the social climate, these restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms could potentially stir up trouble and tension, which the country does not need, it said in a statement.

The crackdown in Mali takes place at a time of broader instability in the West African country. Mali has experienced two military coups since 2020 and is struggling to respond to threats posed by militant groups tied to al-Qaida and the Islamic State.

Conditions for media reporting there are already dangerous, with a risk of being targeted by militant groups for those on assignment outside the capital, Bamako.

French reporter Olivier Dubois was held hostage for nearly two years by a group affiliated with al-Qaida that abducted him in the northeastern city of Gao in 2021.

SEE ALSO:

He was freed in March last year, along with an American aid worker who had also been kidnapped.

Out of 180 countries on the world press freedom index, where 1 shows the best environment, Mali ranks 113, says Reporters Without Borders.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press.
DAKAR, SENEGAL State television in Niger broadcast footage on Thursday of Russian military trainers arriving in the country aboard a plane equipped with military supplies to boost its air defenses amid deteriorating relations between Niger and the United States.

Two Russian trainers were filmed in front of the plane wearing military uniforms, caps and face coverings. The plane arrived Wednesday night, the report said.

"We are here to train the Nigerian army to use the military equipment that is here," one of the Russian trainers said in French in the broadcast. "We are here to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger."

Until recently, Washington considered Niger a key partner and ally in a region swept by attempted coups in recent years.

A U.S. airbase was established as the heart of Niger's counterinsurgency operations in the sub-Saharan region known as the Sahel. Since 2012, the region has been gripped by a worsening insurgency fought by groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group.

The U.S. invested heavily in training Niger's forces to beat back the insurgency that has ravaged the country and its neighbors, but last summer, some of those elite U.S.-trained forces took part in a coup that ousted the elected president.

U.S. relations with Niger took a further downturn last month when the junta announced on state television the flights from its airbase were illegal and that it no longer recognized the American military presence in the country. The junta criticized the U.S. for trying to force it to choose between partners, warning them against cooperating with Russia and Iran.

Niamey has yet to order American troops out, U.S. officials have said.

The broadcast said the arrival of Russian trainers followed a call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the country's military leaders in March. Niger's military leaders are seeking to diversify their partnerships and achieve greater sovereignty, the broadcast said.
 Supreme Leader of the Iranian Revolution Ayatollah Ali Khamenei wrote on X: "God willing, we will make the Zionists repent of their crime of attacking the Iranian embassy in Damascus."

 No Israeli embassy is safe anymore, Revolutionary Guards Corps General Yahya Rahim Safavi threatened on April 7. The testimonies [of the Damascus martyrs] double the motivation to fight against America and the Zionist regime. We have made a pact with God to continue to fight against oppression and wherever Muslims and non-Muslims cry for help, we will go to help them according to the plan of our Commander-in-Chief [Ayatollah Ali Khamenei] () This recent war will change both the face of security and that of culture and media in the world. Of course, all crimes committed in the region occur with the support of America and the treacherous silence of some Arab countries.

 According to Bloomberg, Iran is preparing to bomb government objectives in Israel with long-range missiles, in retaliation for attack on its consulate in Damascus.

 To date, no one has offered reparations to Iran after the destruction by Israel of its consulate and the residence of its ambassador in Damascus (cf. 0907). However, in everyones opinion, this is an extremely serious crime.

 Welcoming the Japanese Prime Minister, US President Joe Biden declared: We also discussed the Iranian question. Tehran threatens to launch a major attack against the Jewish state. As I told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, our commitment to Israeli security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me repeat that, ironclad. We will do everything in our power to protect Israels security.

 United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, confirmed to him that in the event of an Iranian attack, Washington would stand by Tel Aviv.

 Yoav Gallant said: We will be able to react very quickly as part of a necessary offensive on the territory of those who attack Israel, wherever it is  anywhere in the Middle East.

 The Iranian Foreign Ministry reported on April 10 that the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Iraq communicated by phone with the Iranian foreign minister. Each carried the same message

from the US Department of State: do not respond to Israels attack on your diplomatic representation in Damascus because you would risk provoking a World War.

 Supreme Leader of the Iranian Revolution Ayatollah Ali Khamenei wrote on X: It is regrettable that some Muslim governments are helping the Zionist regime in the midst of the conflict in Palestine. Zionists suck the blood of a country for their own benefit when they gain a foothold in that country. Those who help the Zionist regime are helping to bring about their own destruction. Muslim governments should sever economic and political relations with the Zionist regime  at least temporarily! Relationships should be broken off and no one should help them while they are committing these crimes. To see Muslim countries severing ties with the Zionist regime is not just our expectation. Muslim nations are waiting for it too. If Muslim countries held a referendum, everyone would undoubtedly vote for their government to end relations."

 German airline Lufthansa halted its flights to Iran from April 6 to 11 "due to the current situation in the Middle East."

For its part, Iran suspended all civilian flights over Tehran on April 10 due to military exercises. The Mehr agency withdrew the report it had published on this subject.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Azerbaijan's Azerishig OJSC continues reconstruction efforts in the challenging-terrain Kalbajar district, along with other liberated territories, following President Ilham Aliyev's directives, a source in the company told Trend.

According to the source, electrical facilities are restored in the highlands with year-round snow.

The laying of 35 kV power transmission lines is rapidly underway in the district.

Reconstruction work has been completed in the direction of Istisu, Zod, Zar, Zaylik, and Yellija villages.

Work continues to update the electrical grid; new metal supports are installed, and modern insulated cable lines are laid in the direction of Aghgaya, Gamishli, and Marjimak villages.

As part of the reconstruction, construction of a 110/35 kV substation continues in Istisu village, as does the laying of an overhead line with a voltage of 110 kV from Kalbajar city (the Kalbajar substation with a capacity of 110/35/10 kV) to Istisu.

Moreover, the construction of a new substation with a capacity of 35/0.4 kV and a digital control center has been completed in Kalbajar city.

As a result of the work carried out, a ring power supply scheme will be created connecting the power grids of Kalbajar and Lachin districts.

To note, Azerishig OJSC is concurrently progressing with the reconstruction of power grid facilities across all regions of the country.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Fallout The Beginning Season 1 Episode 8 Editors Rating 4 stars * * * *  Previous Next  Previous Episode Next Episode  Photo: JoJo Whilden/Prime Video

When Jonathan Nolan described the Fallout show as being about what happens when you outsource the survival of the human race on the press tour preceding its release, did anyone know to take him so literally? Sure, there have long been theories bandied around by fans about Vault-Tecs involvement with the Great War. More broadly, tongue-in-cheek critiques of American commercialism, exceptionalism, and unfettered capitalistic greed are at the core of the series. And, after all, the nuclear exchange from which Fallout derives its name was started after a century of American gluttony and excess turned into war over the sparse resources that remained.

But, as it turns out, Nolan kind of gave us the conclusion to the plot  of this first season, at least  in a sentence. Here is, more than anything, a cautionary tale about monopolies, and giving one corporate entity too much unchecked power. (Streamed, no less, by Amazon.)

This is Fallouts most poignant episode, as tragedies in the present collide with greater tragedies of the past, personal, and civilizational. Its about a man who became a monster, haunted for 200 years by a betrayal that, quite literally, ripped the world apart; its about a father who committed a monstrous act for what he thought was the greater good; its about a daughter whose entire world view is shattered by revelations too painful to countenance. Its about the cycles of violence and conflict we are doomed to repeat by human greed. War never changes, as Barb says, and the Ghoul painfully echoes, re-contextualizing Fallouts famous tagline as curdled justification for corporate-sponsored genocide.

Gogginss performance in the flashback scenes, as Cooper Howard listens to his wife drive the world towards annihilation, is staggering. Imagine it: The person you most admire, who you raised a daughter with, has been driven by the poisoned logic of corporate greed to murder everyone you know. You know youll be saved, but at what cost? We witness, here, Coopers first step on his path toward becoming the Ghoul. The first time his virtuous spirit is shaken. Cooper Howard was more like Lucy MacLean than the Ghoul would ever like to admit: He was an idealist, an optimist, a person who took people at face value. The bombs were a crucible that burned that away from him, but the process began before they fell, when he heard the words that would end the world coming from the lips of the person he loved most.

Its heartbreaking. As is the finales other great revelation, after Lucy finally catches up to Moldaver at the Griffith Observatory  repurposed as a home base by the resilient remnants of the New California Republic  to find her dad locked up in an oversize bird cage. But, for Lucy, theres more than just one family reunion: The rotting feral ghoul who sits at the dinner table with Moldaver is her mother. In Vault 31 below the surface, Norm discovers its role in the overarching mystery: It plays host to rows full of Vault-Tec junior executives frozen for centuries in cryopods, with the inhabitants of Vaults 32 and 33 used as breeding stock. Vault-Tecs goal? To create a superior Vault-Tec approved race to recolonize the world  management.

Hank was one such junior exec, born before the bombs fell, just like Overseer Betty, and Stephanie, and every other dweller originally from 31. They were all part of a pre-war Vault-Tec training initiative led by Bud Askins, called Buds Buds. Oh, and Bud is the overseer of Vault 31  well, Buds brain, suspended in a jar on a roomba.

The big reveal in the pre-war timeline takes place in a smokey executive suite lovingly evocative of Dr. Strangeloves war room, in Vault-Tec HQ. Its attended by the head honchos of all of Fallouts major corporations, minus Nuka Cola: even Fallout: New Vegas Robert House makes a cameo as the representative for RobCo, the company that designs and manufactures the majority of the Fallout universes robots. (Go figure.) Barb brings them together to offer what is, essentially, the granddaddy of corporate mergers. When we are the only ones left, there will be no one left to fight. A true monopoly, she says. Vault-Tec will give them all vaults to conduct the experiments they please  and theyll artificially bring nuclear war forward by dropping the bomb themselves.

From a fans perspective, the lore ramifications are huge. Not only is it now canonized that Vault-Tec started the Great War, but they did so as the U.S. and its nuclear rivals were seemingly on the precipice of a ceasefire. We also have a canonical explanation as to why so many of Vault-Tecs vaults were set up with devilish experiments  so that each company could use the inhabitants of their respective vaults as lab rats.

Back in the present, Maximus brings the Brotherhood to the Griffith Observatory in the hope of saving Lucy. (Its also revealed that Aspirant Dane sliced open their own foot in the first episode because they were afraid of being deployed to the wasteland.) The Brotherhood fall on the settlement like a hammer of steel, massacring its meager flesh-and-blood defenders from behind the safety of their power armor. Its almost a complete rout.

In the main room of the Griffith Observatory comes a series of painful revelations for Lucy; firstly, Hank was born before the war. But then Moldaver, who is hardly innocent herself  she may understandably hate Vault-Tec, but lets not forget that she led an army of raiders to murder the innocent inhabitants of a vault  reveals that Hank was the one who destroyed Shady Sands. Why? Because a Vault-Tec employee cant stand by idly while civilization rebuilds itself without them. Further, its implied that the nuclear detonation led to the ghoulification of Lucys mother. Thats how Vault-Tec deals with competition, Moldaver says. Just like they did 200 years ago.

The emotional weight combines to leave Lucy in a fugue state, staring blankly as Maximus enters the room. Hank uses the confusion to his advantage, and gets the Brotherhood man to free him, before stealing a suit of power armour and knocking Maximus out.

Not that Hank is able to escape scot-free. Entering the fray after cinematically dispatching a room full of tin-can Brotherhood soldiers, The Ghoul shoots Hank in the face, at least leaving him with a hell of a scar. The Ghoul knew Hank when they were Cooper Howard and Henry; Henry used to pick up Barbs dry-cleaning. Ive waited over 200 years to ask somebody one question, The Ghoul says, raising his hand cannon. Wheres my fuckin family? It bears repeating that the Ghoul and Lucy have always had more in common than theyd like to admit. And Cooper Howard is still in the Ghoul, somewhere.

After Hank runs away, The Ghoul offers Lucy a choice: Either stay with Maximuss unconscious body and be killed by the Brotherhood when they arrive or come with him to find her dad. (So, yeah, back to square one.) Reluctantly, and with the fantasies of her life with Maximus back in Vault 33 at the back of her mind, Lucy leaves with the Ghoul. Just as they leave, they catch sight of the lights underneath the Hollywood sign starting up for the first time in two centuries. Back in the Observatory, with her dying breath, Moldaver has used the cold fusion chip from Wilzigs head to bring power back to L.A.

As Cooper Howard watched the bombs fall on the city from the Hollywood Hills 200 years ago, captured in the first seven minutes of Fallout, newly anointed Knight Maximus, now awake, watches as the lights of the city return. And with them, optimism for a new, better world.

What do you suppose your Brotherhood would do with infinite power, Moldaver asks him. Maybe you can stop them. Maybe you cant. Maybe all you can do is try.

In the meantime, some hundreds of miles to the North East, Hank  still in his T-60 suit  passes the skull of a death claw as he clambers up a sand dune. In front of him, the great jewel of the Mojave desert beckons: New Vegas, where answers, and certainly more questions, will present themselves. Well see you in season two.

Bottle Caps

 I dont want to read too heavily into it, but the post-credits animation shows New Vegas in a state of disrepair  certainly not as the working oasis of hedonism we see in Fallout: New Vegas. Presumably, its economy faltered with the fall of the NCR and the end of its citizens steady stream of caps.

 Said post-credits animation has another little retcon: a billboard advertising cryosuites at the Tops Casino and Hotel, which was not present in New Vegas.

 I cant wait for Mr. House  one of the best-written characters in Fallout altogether  to presumably play a bigger role in season two. If youve not played New Vegas, youre in for a treat.

 The final song in the series is a fitting one: We Three by the Ink Spots, heard in Fallout 76, per Google. (76 is the only Fallout mainline title Ive not played, but I hear its good nowadays.)

 The Hollywood sign being sponsored by Nuka Cola is an excellent last little fan-centric gag in a series replete with fan-centric gags.

 Thanks for reading the recaps, wastelanders. It was a pleasure to be your guide. One last public-service reminder: Dont feed the Yao Guai. That is all.
Photo: Netflix

The funniest show on television is Girls5Eva, which transplanted from the backwoods of Peacock to the mires of Netflix for its third season. While a lot of shows have taken off after landing on Netflix  You, for instance  Girls5Eva, from the data available publicly, didnt get many viewers on the platform. Im no expert on the mechanics of streaming, but I have one radical explanation for why this is happening: There are simply not enough episodes of Girls5Eva available to watch. On Peacock, the show had two eight-episode seasons. Netflix has given it an additional six. That means that Girls5Eva has aired, in total, only 22 episodes, about the same number as a full-season order of an old-fashioned network sitcom like 30 Rock, to which Meredith Scardinos series is deeply indebted (Scardino wrote on 30 Rock; Tina Fey is a Girls5Eva executive producer). Over a three-year period? This is simply not enough!

Sitcoms are built for mass production and consumption, with dynamics between characters designed to generate an endless stream of story lines, and it can take a season or two to fully gel. Girls5Eva is lucky enough to have a distinct sensibility and a strong cast from the start, but it hasnt had the space to work through all the possible material. Theres so much to mine in flashbacks to the girl groups checkered early-aughts past, in Wickies failed solo career, in Summers wackadoo Christian upbringing, in Glorias fraught lesbian drama, and in Dawns attempts to find her own way as a songwriter (plus the larger meta arc of Sara Bareilles coming into her own as a comedic actor). Season three, in which the crew goes on tour around the country, tries to cover so much ground its like a distance runner sprinting at her vO2 max. The overarching plot  they want to perform at Radio City Music Hall  encroaches on all the fun along the way, rushing past a guest appearance from Cat Cohen, the reveal of Wickies real backstory, and an intricate Harry Styles parody. Sitcoms should be about all the fun everyone is having along the way, and weve lost that.

But there is another and perhaps more important reason that we need longer seasons of Girls5Eva: holidays. Network sitcoms, airing on a traditional schedule, have the opportunity to set episodes around the holidays near which they would air; think of the Thanksgiving episodes of Friends, The Offices Christmas episodes, 30 Rocks impeccable use of Leap Day. In my ideal universe where Girls5Eva has 22-episode seasons, Netflix would also abandon the binge strategy and air those episodes weekly, but thats not a necessity. You could still drop them all at once, which gives me the opportunity to revisit the holiday episodes as those holidays occur throughout the year. If you need convincing, here are my suggestions for some holidays the Girls5Eva might celebrate:

Christmas (duh): Dawn tries to write a Christmas song; Wickie reveals a longstanding feud with Mariah Carey (she claims one of the items from her riff rolodex appears in All I Want for Christmas Is You; Mariah does not know her).

Thanksgiving: The girls try to book a gig at the Macys Parade (as Peacock actually had the stars do, to the confusion of my parents watching at home) while also atoning for their past sins at the event (revealed in flashback).

Valentines Day: Gloria revisits a past relationship with Taylor Lautner (she was his dentist).

Tax season: Summer reveals she hasnt been paying taxes for years (thought you were covered if you already paid your church).

Presidents Day: Dawn tries to write a song about Lincoln being sexy, inadvertently offends a gay activist group.

Pride month: Return of Bowen Yangs lip-sync influencer.

Cuffing season: Big for Gloria.

The Feast of San Gennaro: Big for Dawn (why is the show so all-in on Sara Bareilles being Italian??).

V-E Day: Wickie and Dawns husband, Scott, discover their mutual fascination with the Eastern Front: I spent a lot of time touring post-Soviet states, okay!

Casimir Pulaski Day: Gloria has beef with Sufjan Stevens.
From left: Liang Wang, Cara Kizer, and Matthew Muckey, July 20, 2010. Wang and Muckey were dismissed from the Philharmonic in 2018 after being accused of misconduct. Photo: Hiroyuki Ito/Getty Images

This story was originally published on April 12, 2024. Following publication, the New York Philharmonic announced that Matthew Muckey and Liang Wang, the two musicians accused of misconduct, are no longer rehearsing or performing with the orchestra.

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At 8 p.m. on July 24, 2010, the New York Philharmonic finished the second concert in their weeklong residency in Colorado for the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival. The concert, titled German Masters, featured music by Mozart, Mendelssohn, Schubert, and Wagner. More than 100 musicians and staff from the orchestra had come to town for the performance.

According to police records about that night, after the concert, Ethan Bensdorf, a member of the orchestras trumpet section, invited around ten of his colleagues to an apartment he had rented for the week. Among them was Cara Kizer, one of the newest members of the ensemble.

Tall and collected with neatly parted shoulder-length brown hair, Kizer had joined the orchestra earlier that year as assistant principal and utility horn. Her primary instrument was French horn, which she had started playing in junior high school in Lubbock, Texas, before studying at Juilliard in New York and the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. She was only the second woman to win a job in the Philharmonics brass section in the organizations history.

At around ten oclock that night, two of Kizers colleagues, Liang Wang and Matthew Muckey, joined the gathering at Bensdorfs apartment. Muckey, the Philharmonics associate principal trumpet, was in his mid-20s, having won a spot in the brass section straight out of college. Wang was a few years older and already one of the orchestras highest-paid members; as principal oboe, he played the tuning note at the beginning of every concert. The two men had joined the Philharmonic at nearly the same time, in 2006, and were, in Muckeys words, best friends: They were late because they had been at dinner together with Muckeys parents, who were in town.

In later police interviews, colleagues described Muckey and Wang as immature. Muckey had been seen on tour with different women; one colleague described Wang as sleazy. A female colleague described an incident from a tour to Barcelona the previous February in which the two men started a conversation about a female musician by saying that she was playing great and ended the conversation by saying that they would really like to do her.

Kizer wasnt particularly close with either man, but that night, she sat next to Muckey on a couch at Bensdorfs apartment, her arm stretched along the back of the couch behind him. After she learned that her husbands expected 11:30 p.m. arrival to Vail would be delayed by a few hours, she agreed to join Muckey and Wang for a glass of wine at Muckeys condo.

You dont ever think your colleagues are going to do something nefarious, Kizer told me. She texted her husband and told him she was going to stay out with friends. She added that her phone was running out of battery.

When they got to Muckeys condo, he and Wang got in the hot tub and tried to persuade Kizer to join them, but she declined. Kizer alleged that Wang brought her a glass of red wine. Wang later told the police that Kizer got her own wine.

What was not disputed is that Kizer has no memories of what happened after she drank from that glass.

Cara Kizer. Photo: Sara Messinger

Neither Muckey nor Wang would speak to me for this story, and a spokesperson for the New York Philharmonic wrote in an email that he could not respond to questions about Kizers time in the orchestra. The account that follows is based on interviews with Kizer, her friends and colleagues, and law-enforcement officials. I also reviewed more than 200 pages of documents from the Vail Police Department and Colorados Fifth Judicial District Attorneys Office.

According to Kizer, she woke up the morning after the concert in Muckeys bed, naked. She felt groggy and sick and there were red vomit stains on the floor around the bed. She went into the bathroom and wrapped herself in a light-purple towel. She found her pants in a drawer with Muckeys pants and her shirt in the washing machine downstairs.

When she returned to the bedroom, Muckey was awake. He handed Kizer her underwear, saying that he found it in the bedsheets. As he drove her back to her hotel, Kizer asked Muckey what had happened the previous night. Kizer noticed that he wouldnt make eye contact with her.

He wouldnt say anything, Kizer recalled, except I have to go meet my dad.

When Kizer returned to her hotel, she found her husband sleeping with his cell phone beside him. He had texted her over and over during the previous evening.

Kizer decided to shower before waking him up. After she undressed, she realized that a tampon that she had put in the previous day had been pushed so far into her vagina she had trouble removing it. She told the police that at that moment, my heart jumped up in my throat.

After her shower, Kizer told her husband about the glass of wine and how she woke up in Muckeys bed with no memory of the night before. In an interview, he told me she seemed like she was in shock.

They went together to the hotel lobby, where Kizer met Amanda Stewart, a trombonist for the orchestra.

I still remember that scene, Stewart told me. She was visibly shaking, just so upset.

After Kizer told her what happened, Stewart urged her to go to the police. Kizers husband agreed. He went back to the hotel room and found the tampon in the garbage. He placed it in a coffee cup, hoping to turn it over to the police.

Kizer, however, didnt want to skip rehearsal that evening. At the amphitheater, she spoke with Carl Schiebler, the orchestras personnel manager, who called in a doctor who was working at the festival. The doctor in turn called the Vail police, which sent an officer to pick Kizer up. She asked the patrol car to stop a few hundred feet down the road to be away from everybody. The officer placed Kizers French horn in the back of the vehicle, and they drove away.

At the station, Kizer spoke with a detective named Rusty Jacobs, a 20-year veteran of the department. He asked Kizer to summarize what had happened to her. After hearing her story, he asked if she would call Muckey from a phone at his desk. Jacobs called this a controlled call: He would tape the call and offer occasional prompts to help Kizer elicit information.

Muckey spent most of the phone call saying that he couldnt remember what happened between them. But he was able to recall details from the night like putting Kizers clothes in the washing machine and the conversations they had. His statements were inconsistent: When questioned about his actions the previous day, he said he felt fine when he woke up; he quickly clarified that he had a terrible hangover. Later, he would tell Jacobs that he and Kizer had indeed had sex but it was consensual.

I had just found this tampon shoved so far up inside me that I could not reach it, Kizer said. That would have been the most painful, uncomfortable experience ever. No consenting woman would do that.

Late that night, Kizer went to a local hospital, where she was given a sexual-assault exam and tested for date-rape drugs. Two days later, on June 27, a nurse collected a DNA sample from Muckey.

Jacobs spoke with six Philharmonic musicians and staff about Kizer, Muckey, and Wang. Several spoke highly of Kizers credibility but raised questions about Muckey and Wang, with one male colleague stating that Muckey and Wang think everything in the world is theirs for the taking. Jacobs asked whether they would be capable of drugging someone to commit a crime. Yes, the man replied, I could see that. By the time the residency ended, though, no charges had been filed and Muckey and Wang left town with the rest of the orchestra.

Before she left Colorado, Kizer obtained an order of protection from a judge preventing Muckey from interacting with her. At concerts and rehearsals, however, she still had to play alongside him. At night, when she had trouble sleeping, she would spend hours listening to a recording of the controlled call.

In September, Kizer and her husband attended a get-together with a few other members of the orchestra. Kizer later told Jacobs that during the gathering, Bensdorf let them know about an allegation of rape against Muckey brought by a former Philharmonic musician a few years earlier.

Kizer was shocked that she was only hearing about this accusation now. There were all these stories floating around, she said. Yet no one warned us.

The New York Philharmonic wields an enormous influence on the cultural life of the city. Founded in 1842, it is the oldest orchestra in the country, famous in previous decades for the nationally televised broadcasts of Leonard Bernsteins concerts for young children and, through to the present day, for its commitment to commissioning new works.

The organization has long struggled with gender diversity. Though the Philharmonic is now evenly split between men and women, these changes in the orchestras makeup are recent, and female musicians still make up only a quarter of the orchestras coveted principal positions. The orchestras brass section has been particularly slow to modernize. Kizer was the second woman hired for the section; the first, Amanda Stewart, had arrived six months before her. When the orchestras outgoing music director, Jaap van Zweden, is replaced by Gustavo Dudamel in 2026, he will join an unbroken line of male music directors.

Within this hierarchical and unequal framework, Kizer occupied a particularly vulnerable position in the fall of 2010. As a new hire, her job was probationary. Like all musicians, she would have to be granted tenure by a committee made up of her colleagues. The process was long, involving nearly two years of deliberations before a final vote. (Muckey had originally been part of Kizers tenure committee, but he was removed after the orchestra returned from Vail.)

Stewart faced her own tenure hearing, in February 2011. She told me that in September 2010, Schiebler, the personnel director, told her that the orchestras music director was so happy with her playing and so happy she was there.

But within a month, Stewart said, members of the brass section had begun criticizing her support for Kizer.

How dare a probationary, non-tenured member accuse a tenured member of anything, Stewart claimed a musician in the brass section told her. At one point during the orchestras fall tour in Europe, Stewart took a photo of Muckey moving close to Kizer. Stewart said Alan Baer, the orchestras tuba player, saw her take the photo and pulled her aside a few days later.

If you dont stop supporting her publicly, this is going to harm your tenure, Stewart said that Baer warned her. (Three people confirmed that Stewart told them about this conversation at the time. Baer denies he said this to Stewart.)

Around Thanksgiving 2010, an emergency meeting was called by members of Stewarts tenure committee. Though Stewart was traveling, Schiebler called to tell her that things do not look good because there were major concerns about her playing.

On February 11, Alan Gilbert, the orchestras thenmusic director and conductor, told Stewart that she didnt lay it down enough. She would not be receiving tenure. Stewart says that a member of the tenure committee told her that the vote had gone against her eight to one. She believed that taking the photo in Europe was the nail in my coffin.

Kizer declined to speak to me about her own tenure process, which played out in the spring of 2012; four people familiar with the matter say that she signed an NDA before accepting a six-figure settlement and leaving the orchestra. Stewart told me she believed that Kizers tenure bid, like hers, had been derailed by the accusations she made against Muckey.

In Vail, Jacobs got the results of the tests he had ordered, and there was a match: Muckeys DNA was found on Kizers tampon. There was no evidence, however, that Kizer had been drugged. Wang denied that he had given Kizer anything, and Muckey continued to insist that the sex was consensual. Jacobs worried that his investigation had reached a dead end.

Kizer began researching date-rape drugs. The ten-panel test shed taken in Colorado didnt include a test for GHB, which produced symptoms similar to those shed experienced the night of July 24, so Kizer sent a sample of her hair to a private lab. On February 9, 2011, she got the results. A six-centimeter hair sample was positive for the presence of GHB. Later testing suggested the exposure occurred around the month of the alleged assault.

For me, it was like, Oh my God, this is it, Kizer said. She was more convinced than ever that she had been drugged.

Jacobs sent the case file to the Fifth Judicial District Attorneys Office with a memo recommending that charges be filed, but the DA declined to prosecute Muckey. Jacobs was told that the hair-follicle test did not meet the standards for litigation. (One forensic toxicologist called the practice of testing for date-rape drugs in hair follicles controversial.)

I finally have this information, and now all these other people are screwing it up, Kizer said. It felt like I was meeting such resistance, like this system didnt care that a crime happened to me, to my body. Kizer added that whether or not shed been given GHB, her clear incapacitation  she was blacked out and moments away from vomiting  left her unable to consent to sex.

Jacobs eventually arranged for a meeting between Kizer and Deputy District Attorney Joe Kirwan, who told her he didnt think his office had enough evidence to proceed. Kizer said that Kirwan wouldnt make eye contact. He was looking down, fiddling with a paperclip, Kizer said. He just looked so disinterested.

John Clune, an attorney who specializes in sexual-abuse cases and a former employee of the Fifth Judicial District Attorneys Office, said he didnt understand why the DA didnt prosecute. (Clune wasnt involved with Kizers case.)

It looks very predatory, when you have a woman who, by all accounts, is a very straightlaced, happily married woman and suddenly shes incredibly intoxicated to the point where shes puking and passing out in their condo when there are seemingly sober individuals, Clune said.

With no new action from the police or DAs office, the Philharmonic seemed to treat the issue as resolved. Muckey and Wang remained in the orchestra; Kizer and Stewart both ended up leaving New York altogether.

In early 2018, a few months after reporting about Harvey Weinsteins pattern of predation ignited the Me Too movement, the Philharmonic returned to the allegations Kizer made against Muckey. The organization hired Barbara S. Jones, a former federal judge, to conduct an independent investigation. In addition to Kizers claims, the orchestra learned about the earlier rape allegation against Muckey and unrelated allegations of sexual misconduct against Wang. (Muckey and Wang denied the allegations.)

Over a six-month, $336,573 investigation, Jones interviewed 22 individuals and reviewed extensive documentary evidence. The Philharmonic concluded that the two men had engaged in misconduct warranting their termination.

Muckey and Wang were fired in September 2018. Nearly all the details of the investigation were withheld from the public. A New York Times article on the subject was headlined New York Philharmonic Dismisses 2 Players for Unspecified Misconduct.

Muckey and Wang continued to deny they were guilty of misconduct and appealed to their union, Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians, to challenge their firings. The union agreed. A spokesperson for Local 802 defended the decision. The alleged conduct took place over 8 years prior and much of the evidence appeared to be based on hearsay, the spokesperson said. Accordingly, Local 802 decided that two dues-paying members had the right to have a neutral arbitrator hear and decide the merits of their discharge cases.

The independent arbitration was presided over by Richard I. Bloch, a high-profile attorney, arbitrator, and part-time professional magician. The Philharmonic declined to comment on the arbitration, citing a confidentiality agreement, but I reviewed the arbitration opinion and spoke with people familiar with the proceedings. Kizer testified, as did other alleged victims. Kizer says Muckey attended her testimony, but he declined to speak at the hearing, citing his right against self-incrimination. The Philharmonic defended the dismissals, asking that Bloch draw the strongest possible adverse inference from his refusal to testify and conclude that Muckey engaged in the serious misconduct.

According to the Philharmonic, Joness investigation had operated under common workplace evidentiary standards, which would mean that she looked for a preponderance of evidence that the men were guilty. Blochs review used a higher bar, that of clear and convincing evidence.

In April 2020, Bloch ruled in favor of Muckey and Wang, citing the fact that the events at issue occurred some 8, 10 and 12 years prior and the potential degradation of corroborative evidence over time. Because sex acts are normally performed privately, he wrote, the task of demonstrating assault charges, including those resulting from the refusal to take no for an answer, can be difficult to prove.

The Philharmonic released a statement that it was profoundly disappointed by the decision. Shortly afterward, Muckey and Wang were reinstated to their positions.

This past January, the New York Philharmonic celebrated the 100th anniversary of its Young Peoples Concerts series. A two-minute clip from the most recent performance in this series, of Mussorgskys Pictures at an Exhibition, featured Muckey playing the pieces famous trumpet part.

Muckey shared the video on his Facebook page, writing that it was so fun to play lead on Pictures and it was an iconic excerpt all trumpet players grow up practicing.

In response to a detailed list of fact-checking questions, a lawyer for Muckey sent New York Magazine this statement: These allegations, made over a decade ago, were thoroughly investigated by the appropriate authorities and no charges were filed. After a full, extensive arbitration hearing, the independent arbitrator found that the allegations were unsubstantiated and Mr. Muckey was justifiably reinstated with back pay.

A lawyer for Wang stressed that Bloch is one of the most highly respected labor arbitrators and the hearing he conducted finally allowed all of the facts to be fully examined, and after the hearing, Arbitrator Bloch concluded that the Philharmonic had simply failed to prove any misconduct by Wang.

Both the Philharmonic and Local 802 have recently taken steps to reform their grievance processes. The two organizations reached a new collective-bargaining agreement in 2020 forcing a preponderance of evidence standard in all future arbitrations. In a statement, the Philharmonic stressed that it takes allegations of workplace misconduct seriously and has policies and protocols in place to prevent and address any instances of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Interviews with current and former musicians and orchestra staff, however, reveal that some employees, particularly female employees, continue to feel unsafe. A current member of the orchestra told me about an incident this past February in which her male colleagues spoke negatively about Asian women performing with the orchestra. They were saying that their playing lacked musicality and that it was a cultural thing, she said. There was no apparent awareness or concern that it might not be appropriate.

Erik Ralske, a former Philharmonic musician and the current principal horn of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, wrote in an email the orchestra was an unusually difficult place to work. Ive been a full-time member of seven different orchestras and a guest at a number of others (Cleveland, Philly, LA, Dallas, Berlin Staatskapelle). Sure Ive seen squabbles, tantrums, and disagreements between musicians, but never, ever anything close to the heinous conduct of a handful of former NYP colleagues, Ralske said. The effect of the repeated outrageous behavior of those people was one of callousness on the part of the orchestra at large, who probably feared retribution if they spoke out.

When he takes over, Gustavo Dudamel will have a lot of work to do to repair the Philharmonics culture. But even his best efforts likely wont change the reality that Muckey and Wang remain active in the ensemble. One musician who used to play frequently with the orchestra said that she stopped once the two men were reinstated.

Its the fact that the arbitration went that way and it was swept under a rug, never to be spoken about again, she said. I do not feel safe so I avoid them at all costs.

One tenured female member of the orchestra agreed that the silence about what happened in Vail is particularly disturbing. The fact that we cant talk about it, we cant ask about it, means that we cant ask the question: What if it happens again? she said. Given the allegation of drugging, are women safe when we go on tour?

Its now been more than a decade since Kizer and Stewart left the Philharmonic. Both played with orchestras around the country; Kizer spent several years with the Seattle Symphony. In 2014, she and her husband divorced, and a few years later she settled in St. Louis. She and Stewart had stayed in touch over the years, and eventually they started dating. In 2018, they bought a house together.

Today, Kizer teaches French horn and still takes orchestra jobs; Stewart teaches trombone and performs with the St. Louis Symphony. Auditions for assistant principal and utility horn at the Philharmonic  Kizers former job  were held last month. The post has been vacant for years.

Initial reporting for this story was funded by the Investigative Reporting Workshop.
Photo: Max

The camera loves Show Kasamatsu. As Akiro Sato, the enforcer turned leader of the Chihara-Kai gang, Kasamatsu is the gravitational pull at the center of Tokyo Vice, connecting the yakuza underworld with the journalists covering them, the cops chasing them, and the nightclubs benefiting from their patronage. A dashing figure with tattoos peeking out beneath his well-cut suit and a cigarette perched between his lips, Kasamatsu gives Sato the kind of coiled, poised presence that attracts everyone from Ansel Elgorts reporter, Jake, to Rachel Kellers hostess, Sam. The show often lingers on his face to capture the ways organized crimes ruthlessness weighs on Sato: his raw grief while weeping over the body of his murdered mentor Ishida, or the shocked panic of bleeding out from an attack by one of his yakuza colleagues in season ones cliffhanger.

That cliffhanger confirmed Kasamatsus status as Tokyo Vices breakout star  ever since the finale of season one, the question Im asked, daily, constantly, on multiple continents, is, Is Sato alive!? series creator J. T. Rogers told Vulture before season two premiered  and as production began preparing for the new season, Rogers and Kasamatsu met for five hours to discuss Satos ascendancy, as he is handpicked by the Chihara-Kai oyabun to head the gang. The arc broadly mirrored the sense of responsibility Kasamatsu had while taking Sato to the top. The audience really loves him, the actor says through Eriko Yamaguchi, his translator on set. I didnt want to disappoint anybody  the audience and also the people who created this story.

You smoke a lot on the show and look so stylish doing it. Im wondering if you intentionally worked on how your smoking looks.

I get that a lot, that it looks cool, but I never even thought of that. And Im not trying to be cool, of course. When I smoke onscreen or in my personal life, I face the other person with my cigarette. I want to be a gentleman when I smoke. And every role that I have in which I smoke, depending on the time period its in, I follow the practices of the time. Tokyo Vice was portraying the late 90s, and back then, everybody smoked and threw their cigarette butts on the ground. Its not a good thing to do, but for the show, Im following the rules of what used to be. But I want to show the character enjoying the cigarette, and maybe thats why people think its cool.

Sato carries a lot of responsibility in the finale. Katagiri gives him the information he needs to bring down Tozawa, and Sato has a big speech to the yakuza oyabun where he explains why Tozawa should die. What was filming that scene like?

Before that, Sato has to gather all the yakuza big bosses in one room, and that was really, really challenging for me. I played those scenes like I was creating a huge movie, and I needed to talk to Ken Watanabe and Ansel Elgort to get them to join, and I also needed to talk to J. T. and Alan Poul and Michael Mann. Should I use a big voice, really convincingly? Or do I have to be really polite when I ask them to do this together?

When Sato walks out of the restaurant after Tazawa dies, he flashes a peace sign at Katagiri, Jake, and Sam before he gets into his car. Was the peace sign written, or did you improvise that?

That moment was challenging. I feel similar to Sato in worrying so much about something, but after accomplishing it, not wanting to show it. Thats a big thing Sato accomplishes, that Tozawa committed suicide, but Sato doesnt want to show that. The director, Josef Kubota Wladyka, suggested that maybe Sato could give a wink. But as he was about to roll the scene, I was thinking, maybe not a wink? Its kind of a Western way to express something, and I thought it was not as cool as peace. I did the peace sign, and Josef really liked it, and that was in the final cut. But after filming the scene and in the editing room, the series Japanese producers came up to me and asked, What was the point of showing the peace sign after Tozawa gets killed? There was a talk between the Japanese producers and the U.S. producers as to whether theyre going to cut the peace sign. I asked the producers, Whats wrong with it? and they said, Isnt it too much, too casual to do, after killing Tozawa? If you did something special and you came out bragging, Well, I did so much, thats not cool. I believed Sato would be the kind of person to just pretend that nothing happened, that it was an easy, piece-of-cake kind of thing. Thats what the peace sign meant. The Japanese producers said, Okay, we understand, but we dont really understand. But that scene stayed in the final cut.

Theres also the Chihara-Kai parent-child ceremony, where Sato is dressed by his brothers, drinks from the same sake cup as the oyabun, and pledges his loyalty. How complicated was that, with the rituals and such a large group of actors?

In the very first episode, in season one, we had that ceremony for Kume, so I knew where it was going and what it was gonna be like. We rehearsed so many times. Maybe the episode has one minute or 30 seconds of it in the final cut, but we actually went through a whole ceremony  about 30 minutes  and everybody was sitting there with their legs folded down on the floor. When they called cut, everybody was throwing their legs out and stretching and exclaiming, Oh gosh, that really hurt! No one wanted to screw up the scene by moving.

This season we see more of Satos relationship with Chihara-Kai leader Ishida; the two have a father-son-type bond after Sato saved Ishidas life from an assassination attempt in season one. Theres the scene in episode five where Ishida puts his hand on top of Satos and tells him he wants him to lead the Chihara-Kai. How did you and Shun Sugata approach that?

The script says Ishida will die later on, but he wouldnt know that yet. Sugata-san said out of the blue, Dont you think its weird, in a good way? Maybe he had a hunch that somethings gonna happen to him. Holding hands, for a big yakuza guy, is usually not going to happen. I really like Sugata-san. He was dealing with an illness during filming, and every time he was sick, he would come back on set even more powerful. He is a really, really sweet guy. Once in 1,000 days, maybe he gets a little scary on set, but I like seeing that, because its human  sometimes you get pissed. Were still in contact today, texting each other.

When Ishida dies, he whispers something into Satos ear, but the episode doesnt tell us what he said. What did Sugata-san say to you?

It was like Japanese poetry, this whole scene. Sato talks about Hayama as a big brother, and to Ishida, Hayama is a child of the clan  you cant really talk shit about him. But there was a mutual understanding and feeling between Ishida and Sato about Hayama. What he said while whispering into Satos ear wasnt written in the script, but Ishida mumbled a lot of things as part of a dream for Chihara-Kais success. One thing he whispered to Sato was, Kill Hayama. Then its going to be okay.

So its Ishidas last order, to make sure Sato kills Hayama and takes over.

To have the Chihara-Kai last longer after he dies was Ishidas last wish.

Satos eating so much this season: He gets noodles with his brother; he gets yakitori with Gen. How did you approach having to eat and act at the same time?

When Im eating Kobe beef or something really chewy, its not easy to get out the lines and chew at the same time. Sometimes its cold beef and you have to really chew through it. I dont like when actors just put a tiny bit in their mouth and chew it and say the line. I dont want to do that. I eat noodles and ramen by the mouthful but also try to say the line clearly; I dont pretend Im eating. I really eat when Sato eats, even though there are lines, lines, lines. But if I can request for the future: Please give me something soft!

The series includes music from both major 90s American boy bands, N Sync and the Backstreet Boys. In season one, Sato and Jake have a conversation about the Backstreet Boys song I Want It That Way, and Sato says, N Sync are imitators. Backstreet is original. Do you personally have a preference between the two?

After playing Sato, I cant really say I like N Sync anymore. When Tokyo Vice wrapped, I went to Australia to film The Narrow Road to the Deep North. I went out one night to a club, and I Want It That Way started playing. About ten people there, who I didnt know, started looking at me like, Is that your song? [Laughs.] But theres one song that I really like from the Backstreet Boys. [Hums melody.]

As Long As You Love Me!

Yes! When we had the Tokyo Vice wrap party, we went to karaoke, and I Want It That Way started. I was wondering, Whos gonna sing this song?, and someone brought me two mics. So I sang the song with two mics.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Its a gorgeous but unsatisfying sketch of a thing. Photo: Sony Pictures

This review was originally published on October 6, 2023. Strange Way of Life is now streaming on Netflix.

Two decades ago, Pedro Almodovar turned down an offer to direct Brokeback Mountain because he was worried that he wouldnt get the creative leeway to make the film that he wanted. And what he wanted, he told Indiewire, was to show the animalistic connection between two men: For me it was impossible to have that in the movie because it was a Hollywood movie. You could not have these two guys fucking all the time.

Theres a certain amount of irony to the fact that, having finally made a queer Western romance of his own, Almodovar opted to do so on the tab of Yves Saint Laurent, with costumes done by the brands creative director, Anthony Vaccarello. Presumably, he was given all the freedom he wanted, but the result  a half-hour effort entitled Strange Way of Life  still feels like its midway to an ad, in part because of the sumptuousness of the clothes, and in part because, unlike the 2020 short its being shown in theaters with, it never really commits to being a film. Its a gorgeous but unsatisfying sketch of a thing, and it has such a tough time creating a sense of history around its thwarted lovers that its almost laughable.

Those lovers, Silva and Jake, are played by Pedro Pascal and Ethan Hawke as middle-aged men, though its only when theyre younger, and played by Jose Condessa and Jason Fernandez, that we see the hectic lust Almodovar was so interested in. As wild gunslingers, Silva and Jake spent two months together, a period we glimpse via a memory of the time they broke into a wine cellar in the company of some working girls and ended up in each others arms instead.

Maybe its meant to feel like a fever dream, those hectic images of two model-handsome young men rolling around together in puddles of alcohol. But it might as well be a scene from a different movie, or just a different photo shoot, so impossible is it to connect to the moody people the pair have become, or the very different-looking actors playing them. Jake, after turning down Silvas suggestion that they buy a ranch together, has become sheriff of the town of Bitter Creek, while Silva has been across the desert working with horses, and when the film begins, theyre reunited for the first time in 25 years. While Silvas visit is not without ulterior motives, it doesnt take long for the two to end up back in bed together, albeit with a cut to black after their initial clinch.

Why the young Jake and Silva get that cartoonishly voluptuous scene while the older Jake and Silva have sex decorously offscreen has less to do with time or age than it does a failure of imagination. Strange Way of Life doesnt have any sense of conviction in what its grown men are supposed to have been doing in those intervening years. They have boatloads of backstory to be unloaded over dinner and during the morning after, with Silvas son, Joe (George Steane), being the prime suspect in the murder of a local woman who happens to be the widow of Jakes brother, someone he vowed to protect (and maybe also had an affair with). If the flashback reads like a fantasy of unfettered and un-frowned-upon desire, complete with the sex workers striding off like fairy godmothers, laughing that they have nothing to do here, the convoluted offscreen crime is a much more awkward means of showing the masculine obligations Jake and Silva have become trapped by.

Having reunited its lovers, the film seems reluctant to have to saddle them with a conflict that ends up feeling ridiculous. It ends where it feels like it wishes it began, in a scene of tender domesticity surrounded by improbably chic trappings. Almodovar has always been an impeccably stylish director, but the lushness of Strange Way of Lifes interiors, of the uniformly beautiful young men filling out the cast, and the runway-ready jacket Pascal wears (inspired by Jimmy Stewarts in Bend of the River, but in a shade of emerald green that wouldnt last a day in the sun) give this film a catalogue-page unreality. It would have been better off relinquishing its half-formed ideas and just coasting by on vibes.
Nobody likes a You havent been to [blank]?! Oh, you gotta go interaction at a dinner party. But it doesnt seem to bother Henry Thorpe (Jason Butler Harner) when his friend and colleague John Sugar comes in with a warm, enthusiastic You gotta go to Shibuya Crossing.

Henry, you would love it, Sugar says (the twinkle in Colin Farrells eye and the warmth in his tempered rasp remind one, for the thousandth time in this 33-minute episode, what an absolute dynamite role this is for our reigning Teddy BearIrish Rogue icon). The busiest intersection on the planet. Three thousand people cross the street every two minutes, all day and every day into the night. Sugars speed of voice gets faster and faster as a mix of B-reel footage and his actual memories of the place flicker through his minds eye. I watched this blur, this flow of people just walking, laughing, happy, angry, sad, back and forth, back and forth. I sat there for hours, Henry. Just watching them.

Or feeling them? he adds with hesitance. When speaking in classic PI voice-over, John Sugar speaks of the human race  living and dead  with a hard-boiled honesty. His cinephiles conscience tips him off to the violent color wheel of flaws inherent to the human race. But in conversation with those he trusts, he speaks of people  as individuals and a bustling collective  with something bordering on reverence for the human spirit and its fractal diversity. This paradoxical attitude separates Sugar from confidants and strangers alike, and connects him to the darkest corners beneath the bloody red sun of fantastic L.A.

Cut back to the top of the episode: Its a groggy morning for Sugar  awakened by the nightmare-fueled twitches of his problem arm. He gives Ruby a quick call to check in if shes heard anything about the Siegel girl. You mean since you called me four hours ago? she says. No, its all been quiet on my end. She reiterates that she doesnt like this case for Sugar, and he can tell theres something behind her concern besides, well, her actual concern for his well-being. Why does she keep saying that? he thinks. Whats she worried about?

Sugar heads out into another beautiful day in California, complete with your run-of-the-mill rescue of some ladies from a pack of psycho gangsters. Enter Eric Lange as Stallings (another juicy noir-TV villain role for one of the standout character actors in the biz), whos got Melanie Matthews trapped in Teresas apartment with Teresa (Cher Alvarez) and her two small children, a little pack of goons hovering around the living room and a lookout in one of their two F-150s parked on the street. Sugar spots the F-150s from Charlies van, parked not far off. Charlies an old friend I like to work with, Sugars voice-over introduces his modern PIs local helper-friend. A civilian, but I trust her.

Stallings is about to put Teresas hand in a blender to get Melanie to divulge his buddy Clifford Carters whereabouts when Sugar comes barging into the apartment with an animated story about being Teresas probation officer  weve got to get you ready for your Child Services appointment in an hour, everyone out, lets move, that sorta thing. Stallings doesnt buy it. A PO could work his whole life and never afford that suit. Fortunately, Charlie sneaks up on one of the red F-150s outside and renders the engine up in smoke, luring Stallings and the gang outside and leaving Sugar and the ladies with a workable getaway. Just a quick KO on the guy they left behind to stand guard and a backdoor exit to Charlies van and Sugars Corvette outside. After the group splits up, Sugar gets the straight story on Clifford Carter and how his corpse ended up in the trunk of Olivias car.

Heres how it went down as Melanie tells it: Melanie volunteers at a shelter, mostly helping women out of abusive relationships. A while back, shed helped Teresa get away from her husband. Then, about a month ago, Teresas sister Carmen called looking for help to get away from Clifford Carter. Olivia was helping me then, says Melanie. She loved it. Got her outside herself like it does me. The night of Cliffords death, Melanie got a call from Olivia to come over to Carmens. Both Clifford and Carmen were dead by the time Melanie arrived. Olivia explained she walked in to find Carmen already dead and Clifford coming back into the room with a body bag ready. Olivia was holding the gun hed left on the table (He didnt like seeing me, seeing him, Olivia explains in flashback) and ended the standoff with a shot to Cliffords head.

She did nothing wrong, Sugar says, thinking it through for himself while reassuring Melanie. Doesnt necessarily warrant trusting the cops with your story, especially with such a messy aftermath at your feet. Besides, Olivia was loyal to her family. Theyve only been out of the tabloid spotlight for two years now, and she didnt want her involvement in something like this to crest another wave of scandal. So she and Melanie put the body in the trunk, and that was the last they saw of one another.

Sugar cant help but promise he will find Olivia. Hes all in on making the professional personal and vice versa. The case as vicarious vendetta, just when such a thing is tilted to clash with the prime directive of his mysterious superiors.

Meanwhile, the fledgling Siegel mind trust is hard at work trying to solve the riddle of John Sugar. David Siegels hunk of a right-hand fixer Kenny pokes around (quite literally, in this case) for intel on John Sugar  enlisting the help of Everett Roberts (Jonathan Slavin), one of these Michael Mannstyle basement-server hacker guys from the NSA who can dig up everything there is to know about Sugar on all the big databases and such. From the data, we learn Sugar was born September 2, 1976, in Chagrin Falls, Idaho, to an electrician father (who died when John was 12) and a retired-teacher mother. One sibling (his sister, that much we know is true, in Sugars mind at least), top of his class in public school and at Vassar. After college, Sugar enrolled at the DLI in Monterey. The army language school, super-intensive crash course for military officers, future state-department officials 

Future spies? Kenny asks.

A spy. That would explain why some of this biographical intel tracks and some of it doesnt. Some of the details feel a little too manufactured. Still, given the evidence at hand, not sure what else you call this little intelligence-gathering cabal of Ruby and Sugars if not a spy ring, however literally or figuratively.

Later on, David Siegel spices up the intel as he retells it to his father, Bernie, whos underwhelmed and borderline annoyed by the groveling attempt on the underside of the performance. Kenny heard these rumors about this group of spies from all over the globe who used to be enemies. Once they all quit their jobs, they got together and made a pact to do something good [or bad] for a change. Sounds like the plot of a shit action movie Bernie produced. The script was preposterous, Bernie says. He wants real boots-on-the-ground information on this guy. Too much is at stake.

So David and Kenny are going to go to Flagstaff, Arizona, to see if they can find Sugars alleged mother. Meanwhile, from her own high-tech at-home surveillance desk, Ruby detects Everett spying on her boy, and Sugar is setting Wiley up with his dinner and a movie  Double Indemnity, a classic femme-fatale joint  before heading out the door to the Polyglot Society Dinner Party.

Im going to speak in the language of this country, if you dont mind, says Ruby as she makes the introductory toast, surrounded by her fellow  colleagues? Agents? Polygots? A rather handsome international group of mystery folks, to be sure. We scatter and we return. We go out into the world, and we do our work  the work we cannot fail to do. But tonight, we return to one another. The group mingles while Ruby rotates everyone in and out of her office for some sort of quarterly one-on-one. Sugar finds a seat with Henry, an anthropologist by day and another close confidant among Sugars peers. Sugar waxes poetic about Shibuya Crossing, and Henry talks about waking up in the middle of the night and ordering a garlic press online. I dont even like garlic, he says. Dont let the academic shtick fool you; Henry is a quiet man of appetites (Cmon, I hear theres cake, he says moments before). He recognizes Sugars overwhelming appetite for his latest case, and warns him to be careful.

Sitting across from one another in an ominous secret-bunker-ass room, Ruby lectures Sugar on the subjective thoughts that dot his notebook meant for an objective account of personal interactions as a result of my stated profession. (I love how the curtains move back and forth above the air conditioner, a blunt-poetic Chandler-esque observation if there ever was one.) The language is mostly I feel when it should be they say. Were here to observe these people, not participate in their lives, Ruby says. You need to stay focused. Dont forget who you are. But he hasnt forgotten. Hes chosen: Hes a guy doing a job. And the job is to find Olivia. Observation is the means, not the ends. Sugar has flipped the script with a good old-fashioned this time, its personal.

Im sorry for the hour, but we have a problem. We close out the episode on a hushed-tone conversation between Ruby and a superior named Vickers. (The same Dr. Vickers Ruby suggested Sugar go see in the first episode? Curious.) She tells Vickers, Sugar is onto Stallings. Its only a matter of time before he discovers the rest.

We have to stop him, says the voice on the other end of the line. Call in the others. With that, Ruby all but deletes Stallingss career history in the annals of NSA cyberdom as Melanie shows up at Bernies door (maybe this former blonde bombshell aint so trustworthy, after all), and Sugar wonders how much time hes got left before the heat closes in. This case, these Siegels  somethings not right. Whether youre in the L.A. of your movie-addled mind or the L.A. beneath your own two feet, youre always a stones throw away from something someone else will keep out of sight at all costs.
Photo: Gerry Goodstein

Im a Merriam-Webster-certified fan of the early-aughts Canadian TV series Slings and Arrows, a loving and lacerating theater satire about the artists and administrators at a big Ontario Shakespeare company. Each season chronicles and draws its themes from the production of a certain play, and as much as I adore the series, certain aspects of season two, about Macbeth, frustrate me to no end. Heres Ellen, the company diva, talking to Geoffrey  currently her artistic director, director, and boyfriend  about Lady Mac:

Exactly how is she weak? I mean, I know she has some weakness because she goes mad, but for the first half of the play she is so overpowering  So? When does she crack? And why? And is it evil that has given her her strength? Is it an unnatural cruelty?

She doesnt get any answers, but what always bothers me is that shes not asking the right questions  or rather, shes asking questions that assume a fairly facile reading of the play. And shes not alone: An almost identical set of questions seems to have informed the creation of Zinnie Harriss Macbeth (an undoing), a revision of the play now visiting Theatre for a New Audience from the Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh.

The back half of Harriss title is threefold: Shes still depicting the unraveling psychological, interpersonal, political  that occurs after the new Thane of Cawdor and his wife murder King Duncan. But shes also setting out to undo centuries of misogyny and marginalization: Her play is a quest to flesh out Macbeths dearest partner of greatness on her own terms, to allow Lady Mac to  as the saying goes  take up space. As such, its (third fold) a wink and a middle finger at the idea, perhaps the characters most famous, that whats done cannot be undone.

So far, so interesting. Lady Macbeth is a fascinating figure, both inside and outside the play she inhabits. Like her husband, she was a real personher name was Gruoch  and she was originally married to a different warlord called Gille Coemgain, who died when he and 50 of his men were burned alive. Probably by Macbeth. Who was his cousin. Whom Gruoch then married. Thats hot shit, and were not even at the play yet! Shakespeare makes things hotter still. His Macbeths are fictions but all the more vivid for it. Part of what makes their story so devastating is how wildly into each other they are at the start  their relationship feels sexy, intense, communicative, modern. Theyre partners, even soulmates, and what they do not only throws a country into turmoil; it destroys them, both as mates and as souls.

Macbeth (an undoing) cleaves to this trajectory: As Carlin (Liz Kettle)  a brusque, sly narrator whos also the first among the weird sisters  announces to us at top-of-show, Itll be as you last saw it  but no matter, things fare better when they are played and played again. But what makes this replaying chafe, especially the further it goes, is that Harris seems far less interested in souls than she is in simply redistributing power. Macbeth, after all, is play about conscience, that microscopic worm that, once its slipped in, can grow into a monster in the mind, but that, if its shut out, can turn a person into a monster. The woman who begins the play by praying for hardness and cruelty is decimated by the return of the conscience she thought she banished. The man who begins it in fear, with no spur to prick the sides of my intent, turns to thoughtless action, steamrolling violently ahead to keep his conscience at bay. That Harris reimagines these story lines isnt a problem; the fact that compunction plays no role in them is. For all its progressive intentions, her play charges right into the trap that feminist retellings so often  and so irritatingly  set for themselves: It values empowerment above all. At the end of the day, all that matters is that its leading lady is strong.

Let them see me as I should be remembered, says this Lady Macbeth (Nicole Cooper) near the end of the show, as she faces her fate: fearless, powerful, and unrepentant. Okay, but  why? Why is it impressive to be unrepentant after committing and/or ordering a whole bunch of murders, including the execution of your own cousin? (In this version, Lady Macbeth holds sway once she and her husband ascend the throne, and Lady Macduff, played by Emmanuella Cole, is related to her and is sister-close, at least until its time to kill.) Impenetrable toughness isnt actually a very interesting quality onstage. Save it for Bitch Better Have My Money. Moreover, its thematic centering raises grating ironies: Isnt the valorization of strength, and the corresponding demonization of so-called weakness, inherently patriarchal? Why is it a sign of weakness that Shakespeares Lady Macbeth goes mad? Is mental illness weakness? Is conscience weakness? In setting out to give women more scope onstage, why do we so often focus on power dynamics  essentially swapping them with men in a conventional Whos in Charge hierarchy  rather than on breadth of humanity?

Where humanity is concerned, Macbeth (an undoing) fares far better before its intermission. Harris has created a sort of braided text, intertwining her own writing and Shakespeares, which deserves credit for gutsiness and ambition, even if the result sometimes clunks in the ear. That braid is tightest in the first act, as Harriss actors (she also directs) duck into iambic pentameter regularly  though never, it should be said, with blazing force. By contrast, their stretches of contemporary speech often feel, in a good way, like were getting to attend a rehearsal. When Lady Mac spots a lucky ladybug on her husbands sleeve, or Macbeth (Adam Best) grumbles Ah for fucks sake in response to his wifes demand that he wear his tails for the arrival of King Duncan (Marc Mackinnon), theres the lively sensation of watching actors improvise around a set of given circumstances: This is the work that often remains invisible  the kind of playful, speculative expansion upon a text that can give depth and contour to the eventual shape seen by the audience. These moments, especially the ones that fill out the central couples domesticity, are Harriss best. After Duncans murder, as Macbeth is starting to fray into paranoia and panic, Lady Macbeth has room for a full-bodied, emotionally truthful response: Full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife, he says. Then talk to me? she replies. He is  as in Shakespeares play  starting to abandon her, to isolate himself within his own mind, but here, she gets more language, more tools to try to hold onto him as he slips away.

But once he slips, so does the play. In Harriss second act, as Lady Macbeth assumes royal command in place of her husband  hes the one wandering around mumbling and washing his hands  Shakespeares language gets moved to the back burner, replaced by something much more heavy-handed. Ever since Carlins prologue, weve been aware that were inside a porous container. This is a play  Carlin knows it, we know it, even Lady Macbeth knows it, and its ultimately the play itself that will prove her greatest oppressor. Things start to break down around her: This is not the scene! Cooper calls out at one point as a lightbulb flashes and the witches voices haunt her. Later, when blood mysteriously appears on her dress, she shouts for a stage manager, technician, anyone backstage, insisting  as both actor and character  that she wont have a dirty dress. Harris has a potentially compelling conceit on her hands  that Macbeths breakdown is psychological while Lady Macbeths is metatextual; the character is under attack not by her own psyche but by her own story  but shes ultimately driving it to a place thats neither sufficiently nuanced nor fully coherent.

They were right when they said this play is cursed, says Lady Macbeth when she at last directly encounters Carlin and her fellow weird sisters, Mae (also Cole) and Missy (Star Penders, whos the treat of the whole show here and in her role as Duncans useless teenage dirtbag son, Malcolm). I understand that now  weve been stuck in these played-out scenes for hundreds of years  As long as they want blood, and the madness of women, we are here to give it to them, is that it? But is that what an audience wants? And is it all Macbeth has to give? Carlin has also been prodding us from the jump with simplistic jabs about why weve all shown up at the theater: You recognize yourself? she leers. Mouths open, tongues out. Youre all the same. Death is what you want. After intermission, her would-be edgy patter gets even more tired: Still here? Eating an ice cream? Very good. Glass of wine in your hand  excellent  the storys gruesome but why should that stop your need to consume? Oh, please. Condescension is an unworthy approach to take with an audience, especially one who has shown up specifically to see you do something different and radical with a gnarly old play. As for that old play  well, yes, it was unquestionably, to quote this particularly delightful diatribe, written in an age where women were literally male property. But for all that, it pushes back at (an undoing) with a power more radical than that with which Harris seeks to imbue Lady Macbeth. What her revision has set out to undo isnt actually Macbeth: Its generations of facile discourse around Shakespeares play, discourse thats all too apt to be equated with the play itself.

This is the final scene, says Mae to Lady Macbeth as the Scottish queens road is running out. But its not, really. Harris doesnt quite know how to wind things up  a sign of lacking clarity deep down in your engine  and Macbeth (an undoing) has roughly as many endings as The Return of the King. But the gist of them all is a kind of bitter lament: a eulogy to this powerful woman crushed and limited by the words and worlds of men. What does she have to show us, though, besides power? Another iron fist, this time in a dress? By all means, give us more of Gruoch, but give us her conscience  and her consciousness, that crucial dawning realization of moral catastrophe that lives at the heart of her play. Give us her soul. Though he may not have written his Lady Macbeth a contemporarily satisfying number of lines, Shakespeare left doors open in terms of both psychology and circumstance. We are the ones who close them and then blame the play when we run into a wall.

Macbeth (an undoing) is at Theatre for a New Audience through May 4.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. A mine explosion has occurred in Azerbaijan's Aghdam district, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the General Prosecutor's Office, and the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) said in a joint statement, Trend reports.

Casualties have been reported.

An anti-personnel mine exploded in the district's Aliaghali village area, not cleared of mines, close to the former contact line [which existed between Armenian and Azerbaijani armed forces during Armenian occupation of Aghdam district prior to the second Karabakh war].

The explosion injured the legs of Mirfattah Bagirov, born in 1965, and Khagani Teymurov, born in 1973.

The Aghdam district prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, after the second Karabakh war in 2020, 77 percent of the people who died from mine incidents in Azerbaijan were civilians. Since November 10, 2020, 351 people have been victims of landmines in the liberated areas; 65 of them lost their lives, and 288 were injured.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 12. Kazakhstan's KTZ Express, a subsidiary of Kazakhstan Railways, has inked a cooperation memorandum with Nurminen Logistics to boost container freight operations along the China-Finland-China route, Trend reports.

The document was signed during the meeting of the Kazakh-Finnish Intergovernmental Commission.

The sides aim to ramp up freight transport and introduce joint container services from China to Finland and along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) through Kazakhstan.

Moreover, Kazakhstan has proposed Finland to explore potential joint investment ventures in the transportation and logistics sector.

Present at the Kazakhstan-Finland Intergovernmental Commission meeting Vice Minister of Transport of Kazakhstan Maksat Kaliakparov shed light on various topics, including the current status and prospects of bilateral cooperation in transport and logistics.

Kaliakparov emphasized the need to bolster collaboration and transit capabilities between Finland and Kazakhstan, particularly in light of the burgeoning trade ties between China, Southeast Asian nations, and the EU.
Dining chat: A waiter gave our anniversary bubbly to the table next to us. What should we have done?
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Geopolitical risks strongly influence global oil prices and supplies, Acting Chief Trading Officer at SOCAR Trading (the trading house of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan), Taghi Taghi-Zada said, Trend reports via the company.

He made the remark on the sidelines of a meeting of global trading companies (Commodities Global Summit 2024) in Lausanne.

"The oil market is expected to remain tense in the short term due to world conflicts, geopolitical pressure, and logistical disruptions. There are many uncertainties (regarding crude oil)," noted Taghi-Zada.

However, he acknowledged that OPEC "has been doing a good job managing oil prices in recent years".

"OPEC may be interested in acting to maintain the global oil price at an average of $90 per barrel. They have been successful, and I see no reason why they should not continue this trend as a group," Taghi-Zada explained.

Overall, most global traders believe that this year the price of oil could be in the range of $85100 per barrel.

To note, the Commodities Global Summit was held on April 810, organized by the Financial Times.

Headquartered in Geneva, SOCAR Trading was incorporated in December 2007 as the marketing arm of SOCAR with a mandate to market Azeri barrels produced from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli field and other surrounding fields in Azerbaijan.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A little further on, Leigh fits in seven paragraphs on the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, increase in aircraft speed, magnetic strip credit cards, cars that turn out to be lemons, Chinas Great Leap Forward, Mao Zedong importing 250,000 sparrows from the Soviet Union, Fidel Castro and Che Guevara.

In one four-page gallop, he touches on philosopher John Stuart Mill, the invention of the mirror, the advent of clocks and train timetables, Lord Byron, Britains Poor Laws, the Luddites, George Eliot, Thomas Hardy and Charles Dickens.

Andrew Leigh, economics academic, author and assistant minister for competition in the Albanese government, is also a long-distance runner. He has taken his love of running the trails around Canberra to economic history with a book giddy with speed as it sprints from how much effort it took Babylonian workers in 1750 BCE to create light to the threat posed to humanity by the singularity.

Credit:

Economics is known as the gloomy science, but Leigh  across 190 pages  doesnt give the reader time to become depressed or question their economic choices. He says he wants his small book to tell a big story. That story is the development of modern capitalism, which, as Leigh argues, is a story of innovation and creativity.

The structure of the book means Leigh has to leap over important developments. For instance, the Punic Wars, and how they pitted Rome and its policy of plunder economics  seizing the assets and people of another state  against the trade-based policies of Carthage dont get a mention.

But model Miranda Kerr gets a reference, as does a six-year-old chimpanzee called Raven, who outperformed professional share brokers by throwing darts to choose her stocks. Not that economics isnt made more interesting with models and chimpanzees. Leigh knows that the best way to keep a reader turning the page is to make economics both engaging and relevant to their everyday life.

Hence, he tells Paul McCartney that you can buy love, reveals that ski resorts happen to report more snow on weekends and touches on the importance of McDonalds to the rise of franchising. By furnishing these types of public touchstones through this book, Leigh is able to sneak in some fundamental economic theories and the people behind them.
Its hardly any more than common sense to say work out your limits, stick to them, tie your obligations explicitly to your public interest objective and be very clear about those with people who are going to be spending someone elses money. Because this is a slippery slope and most times the investment fails. Brennan, who led the commission from 2018 to 2023, also defended Wood and said Australia did not have to follow countries such as the United States, which offers tax credits to industry under the Inflation Reduction Act. It is possible to understand the dramatic changes in Australias external environment and still question and debate what is the right policy response, he said. There are multiple strategies available to us, and it might be that our best response is a policy mix quite different from that of the US or Europe.

Albanese unveiled the new plans on Thursday in a major speech that promised a new law, to be called the Future Made in Australia Act, to offer industry support for renewable energy, making solar panels and encouraging investment in critical minerals. While there is no price tag on the total plan, the government aims to announce new measures before the May 14 budget to add to the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund and the $1 billion promised for solar panel manufacturers last week. This is not old-fashioned protectionism or isolationism  it is the new competition, Albanese said on Thursday. Independent economist Saul Eslake countered that this would make us poorer by using taxes and subsidies to encourage resources to move from one part of the economy to manufacturing.

Loading Treasurer Jim Chalmers named Wood as the Productivity Commission chair last September after her career as an independent economist at the Grattan Institute, but her comments on Thursday showed she took a different view to many in the government about using subsidies. If we are supporting industries that dont have a long-term competitive advantage, that can be an ongoing cost, Wood told The Australian Financial Review. We risk creating a class of businesses that is reliant on government subsidies, and that can be very effective in coming back for more. Swan, who was treasurer from 2007 to 2013 and hired Chalmers as a top advisor over those years, said Wood was completely out of touch with the international reality because every major economy had launched similar policies to help new industries.

What we dont do is make some of the things we need so we can be independent and stand on our own two feet, Swan told the Nine Network on Friday morning. Former NSW auditor-general Tony Harris said Wood was right to raise concerns about industry assistance despite the sympathy for the idea of making Australia more independent in making solar panels or batteries. Harris said the list of wealthiest Australians was full of people who benefited from government help and the new policy should not compound that problem, although he acknowledged the details were a mystery. The whole thing is quite fraught and quite dangerous, he said of the new plan. It will be very interesting to see how they do it and how they justify it.

University of Canberra professor Stephen Bartos, a former deputy secretary in the federal department of finance, said the new plan needed strong safeguards and full transparency, including the release of decisions for the investments and the assessments of the results from money spent. Loading Weve had too many instances in Australia where weve stuck with losing industries for too long, he said. Rather than that, whats needed is transparency in the decisions, what the criteria are, and why were deciding to invest in one industry versus another industry. The government plan has been backed by the renewable energy industry and companies that want to manufacture advanced technology, while Centre for Policy Development program director Toby Phillips said the investment could not be left to capital markets alone.
Michael Mansfield, KC, head of Nexus Chambers and one of Britains leading barristers, said the letter should absolutely be considered by those investigating the incident. The document is plainly relevant to a particular state of mind, said Mansfield. In other words it is not indicating that the target of the Israeli army is primarily Hamas but Gaza as a whole by weaponising aid under siege conditions. Those who will inevitably suffer and run the risk of death as a result are bound to be non-combatant civilians, medics, women, children, the injured and those who are responsible for bringing aid as with the seven killed. Another senior British legal figure, who asked not to be named, said that while the letter may show animus, it was not, in their view, relevant to the question of establishing motives for last weeks drone strike.

Although the IDF has concluded its probe, a judicial inquiry is ongoing to determine whether criminal charges should be brought against those involved in the killings. Loading Mandel is the highest-ranking officer to have been dismissed in connection to the airstrikes. In 2007, he was named in the Israeli media as one of the IDFs 10 most promising religious officers. The son of a Holocaust survivor, he lives in Gush Etzion, a cluster of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. In his youth, he studied at a religious school run by the Ateret Cohanim, a right-wing Jewish organisation dedicated to returning, reclaiming, and rebuilding a United Jerusalem.

Since 2000, the organisation has been acquiring land in the Arab neighbourhoods of East Jerusalem outside the Old City. Unanswered questions The IDFs internal investigation characterised the strikes, which took place at night, as a grave mistake and found they were carried out in serious violation of the commands and IDF Standard Operating Procedures. However, it said there was no intentional harm. Those who approved the strike were convinced that they were targeting armed Hamas operatives and not WCK employees, said the IDF.

The investigation into Mandel and his colleagues was led by retired Major General Yoav Har-Even, president and chief executive of Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, sparking claims of bias. The IDF is one of Rafaels biggest buyers. The company, which sells nearly half of its arms to Israeli clients, makes the Spike missiles which are reported to have been used to kill the aid workers. We demand the creation of an independent commission to investigate the killings of our WCK colleagues, said WCK in the wake of the IDF report last week. The IDF cannot credibly investigate its own failure in Gaza. The IDF investigation report, which runs to 539 words, identified three key errors it said led to the strike: a failure by the forces involved to identify the vehicles as belonging to WCK as they left the WCK warehouse for the evening

the mistaken assertion that an armed man had entered one of those vehicles

the destruction of the second two vehicles after the first one was hit

On the eve of its publication, a briefing was given to a small group of foreign journalists by Har-Even, but key questions were left unanswered. Chief among them is how it was possible the drone team did not know the vehicles belonged to WCK and why it was thought a gunman had got into one of the cars. I think its inconceivable that the IDF wasnt aware that the three vehicles were being driven by the WCK aid workers, said Charlie Herbert, a former major general in the British Army who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. I cannot comprehend how they could have mistaken them for anything else, and if there was uncertainty, the strike shouldnt have gone ahead. The alleged failure to realise the cars belonged to WCK is perplexing for a number of reasons but mainly because the entire WCK operation had been approved in advance by the IDF and had been tracked for hours, almost certainly days, by the IDF and its drones.

The IDF said the vehicles roof markings were not visible to its drones at night. But the drones had tracked the WCK aid convoy from the beach, where the supplies had been landed on a pier built a few weeks before under the glare of world media attention. The trucks were then tracked all the way to WCKs warehouse in Deir al-Balah, according to the IDF. The same journey had been made the previous day and several times before. Each journey was approved by and closely monitored by the IDF. The IDF has acknowledged that our teams followed all proper communications procedures, said WCK in a statement. The IDFs own video fails to show any cause to fire on our personnel convoy, which carried no weapons and posed no threat. On the day of the strikes, it was Mandels Nahal Infantry Brigade that was embedded on the ground in the area and was tracking the convoy. IDF protocol demands that one or more of its officers would have been in live radio contact with the teams flying the drones above.

The drones are believed to have been controlled from Palmachim Air Base, which is just south of Tel Aviv and 70 kilometres to the north. Squadron 161, known as The Black Snake unit, operates the Elbit Systems Hermes-450 Zik drone from Palmachim where it specialises in counter-terror missions over Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon. The drones can carry up to four Spike anti-tank guided missiles of the sort made by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems. It is known with certainty the IDF knew the convoy belonged to WCK as it moved from the beach to the WCK warehouse. This is because Har-Even told journalists that the military had called WCKs US office to tell them a gunman had clambered onto one of the trucks at the time. As Eylon Levy, until recently an Israeli government spokesman, has said on social media, it is normal for armed gunmen to clamber onto the top of aid trucks in Gaza. While the aid was unloaded at the warehouse, the two drones kept circling, according to the IDF. Once the aid was stowed, four SUV vehicles were observed by the drone emerging from the WCK warehouse.

One vehicle headed north and the drones watched as the aid workers got into the three remaining WCK vehicles to return home for the night. Loading At this point, said Har-Even in his briefing, someone watching the video feed from one of the drones said they thought one of the people getting into one of the vehicles was carrying a weapon. However, when the video was rerun for the investigators there was no sign of that. No footage of this moment was provided, reported the BBC from the briefing. But the military investigation concluded that it was a misclassification... they saw that its a rifle but at the end of the day it was a bag. Former Army commander Colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon said the drone team would have found it difficult to discern what was happening on the ground at night but added that the strike should not have gone ahead if there was any doubt among the IDF officials.

In the British Army, we were not allowed to approve an airstrike based on an assumption, he said. It was on the basis of this single alleged misidentification that the IDF investigation says the three vehicles containing the seven aid workers were hit. Without this alleged misidentification it would also be difficult for the investigation to justify its conclusion that those who approved the strike were convinced that they were targeting armed Hamas operatives and not WCK employees. The two officers removed from their positions - Mandel and the brigade fire support commander, an officer with the rank of major who has not been named  were dismissed for acting in serious violation of IDF Standard Operating Procedures. Specifically, the investigation found the strikes breached these procedures in two ways:

The suspicion an armed man was in the first car was insufficient to justify the strike

The second and third vehicles were destroyed without any further evidence being gathered Loading An IDF spokesperson told the Telegraph, London: As concluded in the investigation, a chain of serious failures led to a situation where the forces that struck the convoy were not aware of the fact that the vehicles belonged to the WCK organisation at the time of the strike, and believed that they were Hamas operatives. Following the operational failures that emerged in the investigation, the chief of staff decided to dismiss the relevant officers. In addition, the findings of the investigation were forwarded to the Military Advocate Generals Corps for the purpose of making a decision regarding the opening of a criminal investigation by the military police. Mandel was also approached for comment by the Telegraph, London both via telephone and the IDF.
The 33rd Meeting of the Revised Kyoto Convention Management Committee (RKC/MC) convened from 9 to 10 April 2024 in a hybrid format. In attendance were representatives of Contracting Parties, Member administrations, and partner organizations.

The meeting kicked off with opening remarks from Pranab Kumar Das, Director of the WCO Compliance and Facilitation Directorate, who welcomed participants and invited them to actively contribute to the discussions for a fruitful outcome.

Discussions focused on updating explanations and appendices to the RKC Guidelines for both the General Annex and Specific Annexes, which include references, examples, and best practices from various sources, mainly RKC Contracting Parties, International Organizations, etc. The meeting provided insight and further contributions on how to enrich the RKC Guidelines. In addition, the meeting also noted the technical input and recommendations provided by the Technical Committee on Rules of Origin on the draft Guidelines for Specific Annex K (SA-K) of the RKC and decided on the way forward regarding the need to prioritize updating SA-K.

Discussions were held on the need to comprehensively update the Handbook on Inward and Outward Processing Procedures and recommended undertake this work under the auspices of the Permanent Technical Committee.

The meeting considered the proposal to develop a Quality Implementation and Compliance Assessment Toolkit (QuICK!), an advanced web-based diagnostic framework/application and database, aimed at enhancing monitoring, reporting and evaluation mechanisms, among others, and supported its development subject to funding availability.

Welcoming Nicaragua as the 136th Contracting Party (CP) to the RKC, delegates received a presentation on their experiences and challenges during the RKC accession process. In addition the RKC/MC requested additional information regarding the submissions made by Guatemala and Iran for the consideration at its next meeting.

The updated draft RKC/MC Work Programme for 2022-2025 was presented, discussed, and endorsed by the RKC/MC.

Maria VOURNOU from Greece and Yves Patrick TCHAMI FOE from Cameroon were re-elected as Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, respectively.

For further inquiries, please contact the RKC Team at RKCReview@wcoomd.org.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. On 31 March, when the winter heating season ended, Europes gas storages were over 58 percent full, said the EU Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson, Trend reports via the EU Commission.

She pointed out that this is the highest level on record at this time of year.

These high storage levels are a result of our successful diversification of energy supplies, the efforts of citizens and businesses to reduce gas demand, and our investments in renewable energy  the three pillars of our REPowerEU Plan. The high level of gas storage in Europe means that markets are increasingly stable, prices are back around pre-war levels, and Europe can start refilling with confidence for next winter's heating season, noted the commissioner.

Europeans have significantly reduced their gas demand by almost 20 percent over the past 18 months, resulting in savings of more than 107 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas. The growing presence of renewables in the energy mix has enabled the substitution of 24 bcm of Russian gas in 2022 and 2023. Impressively, emissions from the power sector experienced a remarkable 24 percent decline in 2023, even as our economy continued to expand.

In response to these trends, the Commission has proposed various measures, including a target for Member States to fill gas storages to 90 percent capacity by November 1st each year. As of April 1st, EU gas storages were more than 58 percent full, marking the highest storage level on record as illustrated in the figure below. Additionally, European operators have stored an additional 2 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas in Ukrainian storage facilities, enhancing security for Europe and supporting our partners.

With gas storage levels at this robust level, the EU is well-positioned to achieve the 90 percent target by November 1st, 2024, ensuring preparedness for the winter of 2024/2025 and alleviating pressure on gas prices during the storage filling season.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has announced the successful completion of its first-ever transaction with The Currency Exchange Fund (TCX), Trend reports via the BSTDB.

This debut transaction marks a milestone in BSTDB's commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions that effectively navigate the complexities of volatile and frontier financial markets of its member countries.

The collaboration involves a strategic cross currency swap, converting Azerbaijani manat disbursement and repayments into US Dollar (USD) flows on a loan provided by BSTDB to a leading bank in Azerbaijan.

Through this first transaction with TCX, BSTDB ensures it continues to receive USD repayments, while the client benefits from the financial stability of fixed debt service costs in their local currency, the manat. The arrangement safeguards the Azerbaijani bank and its clients against the potential depreciation of the manat.

"We are delighted to join the distinguished club of institutions leveraging the expertise of TCX to expand the range of frontier currency offerings to clients. The partnership with TCX reflects BSTDB's strong commitment to support sustainable economic growth and secure finance solutions for its development clients. Our lasting partnership will help take foreign exchange risk off the list of concerns for our clients in these times of uncertainty and help them unlock new growth opportunities," said Dr. Serhat Koksal, BSTDB President.

BSTDB became the first multilateral development bank to issue a local currency bond in the country. The two-year bond for the amount of 10 million manat was placed on the Baku Stock Exchange on 1 August 2019. The BSTDB bond issuance in manat supports the program of the government of Azerbaijan for de-dollarization of the financial sector.

As of January 1, 2023, the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank's (BSTDB) portfolio of projects in Azerbaijan stood at 12.649 million euros. This marks a decrease of over three times compared to the figure recorded on January 1, 2022, which amounted to 49.438 million euros, according to the bank's reports.

Azerbaijan holds a five percent share in the bank's share capital.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. The eighth exhibition-conference on renewable energy sources will take place in Tehran on May 2728, Trend reports via the event organizer, the Iran Renewable Energy Conference (Iran REC 2024).

The conference aims to discuss achievements and plans regarding renewable energy sources, innovations, and transformations in the energy sector and economy.

Iran's target for the above sources is 10 GW by 2026, utilizing solar energy (with up to 300 sunny days per year), wind energy, and geothermal sources.

The Iranian government plans to increase the installed capacity of RES to over 100 GW.

In addition to speakers from Iranian energy institutions (ministries, the Iranian Space Agency, Iran's Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization, and others), representatives from Germany (Werner Warmuth, CEO of PSE Projects), China, the honorary vice president of the World Wind Energy Association, Jami Hossein, and experts from several European and Asian international organizations will speak at the conference.

To note, the previous 7th conference on renewable energy sources was held on October 1214, 2023, in Nicosia.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Kazakhstan is steadily increasing its position as an economic partner of Spain, a source at Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation told Trend.

"Kazakhstan is steadily increasing its position as an economic partner of Spain. According to Spanish data, Spanish exports amounted to 363 million euros in 2023, an increase of 80 percent compared to the 201 million euros of 2022, which was already a 78 percent increase compared to 2021," the source said.

According to the source, Spanish exports were quite diversified, covering a wide range of categories, from airplanes to transport equipment, machinery and mechanical appliances, vehicles, or fashion.

"The number of Spanish companies regularly exporting to Kazakhstan is 235, and those present in Kazakhstan employ approximately nine thousand people in the country directly, not counting indirect jobs. Concerning Spanish imports from Kazakhstan, these amounted to 1.971 million euros in 2023, a 30 percent decrease from the 2.830 million euros in 2022," the ministry said.

As the ministry noted, Spanish imports from Kazakhstan are concentrated in hydrocarbons, which represented 96 percent of the imports in 2023, a year when energy prices have decreased. Kazakhstan was the 7th supplier of oil for Spain in 2023.

"As you can tell from these statistics, our cooperation has been increasing, and as Spain and Kazakhstan have a very strong relationship, we are sure that the trend will be positive in the following months," the source noted.
A Mayo TD has said he shares the concern of the community in relation to plans to provide 120 beds for for International Protection Applicants at a Ballina hotel.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth confirmed on Thursday the beds are to be provided for for the families in the Twin Trees Hotel on the Downhill Road.

The Western People has seen official correspondence from the Departments Community Engagement Team confirming the news.

Fianna Fail Minister Dara Calleary stated he has outlined the concerns of local people.

"There is huge concern in Ballina around the proposals made to IPAS (International Protection Accommodation Services) regarding the accommodation of International Protection Applicants at the Twin Trees Hotel," he said. "I share those concerns."

The local TD said he can "absolutely appreciate and understand people's genuine concerns about this" and he is continuing to work on the matter.

"I have spoken on several occasions this week, directly with the Minister in charge of the Department of Integration, Minister Roderic O'Gorman, in relation to the issue and I have outlined the many concerns expressed to me by the people of the town, and the factors in respect of the unsuitability of this proposal," he added.

The Department has said that intended accommodation within the hotel is for 120 people in 33 bedrooms and this accommodation will be for families of international protection applicants.

They said that the agreement does not include all 68 of the hotels bedrooms and therefore, it will still be trading for private guests to book rooms.

Meanwhile, a protest is due to take place this evening at 7pm outside the hotel.
An international conference will place at St. Johns Welcome Centre, Knock Shrine, in conjunction with Notre Dame University, Australia next week.

The two-day event will be held on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 from 10am to 4pm.

Keynote speaker on both days will be Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops. The conference will be facilitated by Prof. Eamonn Conway, advisor to the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.

In advance of the conference, Prof. Eamonn Conway stated that It is clear, even from recent decisions to merge dioceses in the West of Ireland, that change in the Church is inevitable. Such change if chosen wisely and guided by the Holy Spirit, will see a new and transformed blossoming of Christian faith in Ireland. This conference provides a unique opportunity to link the local with the global. Ni neart go cur le cheile. The programme for the conference is as follows:

Cardinal Mario Grech will open the conference on Friday morning, April 19 with a keynote address under the theme The Synod -A Global View.

Prof Renee Kohler-Ryan of Notre Dame University, Australia, and a voting Member of the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops representing Oceania, will discuss our church on a missionary footing.

Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the Synod from an Irish perspective from Rev. Declan Hurley, Co-Chair of the National Steering Committee for the Synodal Pathway in Ireland, and Vicar General of the Diocese of Meath.

On Saturday, April 20 the theme that will be discussed during the conference will be The Synod  Ireland and The World.

Irelands place in the global Church will be the focus of the second day of the conference. The theme will be explored in an address by Cardinal Mario Grech and Julieann Moran, General Secretary of the Synodal Pathway in Ireland.

Meanwhile, Dr Dermot Ryan, Director of Adult Faith Development for the Diocese of Ossory, will explore the way in which we are all called to a synodal life through our parish communities and structures.

The afternoon session will take the format of a panel discussion on the topic of becoming a more inclusive Church and the day will conclude with an open forum. Seewww.knockshrine.ie for more information.
A large crowd, numbering several hundred, gathered outside the Twin Trees Hotel in Ballina this evening (Friday) for a public assembly following the announcement that 120 International Protection applicants are to be accommodated at the hotel.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has agreed to use 33 of the hotel's bedrooms to accommodate the asylum seekers.

The assembly heard from local residents and townspeople who shared their concerns about the Department's decision and its potential impact on Ballina. Several speakers spoke of their concern over the makeup of the asylum seekers that are to be moved into the hotel and the number of asylum seekers already situated in the Ballina area.

"We want to know who is coming in and we want to know if we are going to be safe," said one speaker Bernie O'Donnell.

"We're here to let you know we're not going to accept any refugees at the Twin Trees. We all have to stand together and not accept this," said Declan Howley.

"This is about people power, it's the only way to do it. Concerned people of Ballina, let's join up once and for all and say we're not accepting this," added Maria Greham.

Pictured at the gathering are, from left: Minister of State Dara Calleary TD, Cllr Annie May Reape and Fine Gael election candidate Hugh Rouse. Picture: John O'Grady

Fine Gael local election candidate Hugh Rouse said the people of Ballina need to come together to stop the plans for the hotel.

"We're all neighbours, we're all from the town. We need to go through the right channels and not let this get out of control and do it peacefully for the people of Ballina," he said.

Fianna Fail TD and Minister of State Dara Calleary told the crowd he is planning to engage further with the Department and Minister Roderic O'Gorman on the matter.

Fianna Fail councillor Annie May Reape said Ballina is "over capacity" when it comes to refugees and International Protection applicants.

"I think we've had enough, enough is enough for Ballina. We certainly are over capacity and we do not have the facilities. We don't have the infrastructure, we don't have the medical centres or the schools," she said.

Fine Gael Cllr John O'Hara said there was no consultation with him or other elected members about this.

"We're here tonight to back you all up and pass on your message. Ballina has taken its fair share already," he said.

Independent Cllr Mark Duffy said councillors were only informed of the plan at the 11th hour.

"The first official communication we got on this was yesterday afternoon.

"I find it difficult that we can't look after our people in difficult situations related to housing and we can accommodate people from far away."

The assembly lasted for an hour and a half.
Mayo local election candidate Paul Lawless is holding a public meeting organised in conjunction with a number of locals who are very concerned with the Governments Immigration plans for Ballinrobe.

The meeting will take place in The Maple Youth Centre, Bowgate Street, Ballinrobe on Monday, April 22 at 8pm.

Aontu representative Paul Lawless stated the "people of Ballinrobe were treated despicably during the recent Gannons protest" and there was discontentment.

"The people were deserted and called names by the Government parties," he added.

Mr Lawless said councillors initially supported the demonstration but "quickly retreated into hiding" when party leadership called them to toe the party line.

The election candidate also claimed "Mayo TDs also went into hiding" during the demonstration.

"The location that was earmarked by the Government to house exclusively adult male immigrants was far from ideal," he said. "It was located next to a creche with the smoking area, overlooking a childrens nursery."

Mr Lawless stated the locals who lobbied and protested did get partial vindication when the government announced they would no longer use the facility to house solely adult men.

"Considering the government's poor vetting procedure in these cases parents and locals were within their right to feel worried," he said. "Instead of answers the locals were subjected to condescension and name calling by politicians.

Mr Lawless said the upcoming meeting is very timely as the European Union has just passed the EU Migration Pact.

Aontu leader and Midlands North West EU candidate Peadar Toibin has welcomed what he called the late arrival of the political establishment to the debate on immigration.

He also stated that ceding the power to control immigration into Ireland to Brussels was a serious mistake and error of judgement.

It's good news that the establishment parties are now finally able to talk about immigration. Up to a few months ago these same parties sought to stifle and censor respectful debate by the people on this issue," he added.

Deputy Toibin stated on Wednesday Taoiseach, Simon Harris stated he was fully committed to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"Yet today all his TDs are making the argument why the Irish people should give up sovereignty on another key issue to the EU. We know from our history that when it comes to the crunch, as in the banking debt crisis just over 10 years ago, the EU will not make decisions in Irelands interest," he said. "That is why we need to be sure that we have the right to decide our own law on important issues."

Deputy Toibin has stated at the "heart of the EU Migration Pact is a sovereignty swap" and claimed it will see Ireland lose more say and control over asylum seeker arrivals here.

"The Asylum and Migration Management Regulation (RAMM) will see the EU determine the numbers of immigrants that Ireland must accept or the amount of money we must pay in lieu of not accepting people into the country," he said. "GDP along with population will be used to determine the number of people that Ireland must accept."
The Mary Robinson Centre has partnered with TikTok and today launched the TikTok Youth Climate Leaders Alliance, a programme aimed at 18-to 30-year-olds looking to make significant changes in the face of the climate crisis.

The programme will equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools they will need to make a real difference in tackling climate change, and includes a climate literacy and leadership programme for secondary schools, along with digital learning resources, and an invitation to participate in a climate festival to take place in September 2024.

Up to 50 participants will participate in the programme, which will run from May 1 until the end of the year.

Highlights of the programme will include:

 An 8 month climate leadership workshop series, held at the Mary Robinson Centre, with guest speakers and practical climate actions to empower participants to become climate leaders in their own communities

 Participation in the Mary Robinson Climate Conference, hosted by Mary Robinson on June 5-7, 2024 in Ballina

 Site visits to local Ballina Green Town climate action projects

 The awarding of a bursary opportunity to five participants at the end of the programme to continue their climate action initiatives.

Applicants are invited to apply via: www.maryrobinsoncentre.ie/programme-call.

The application process will close on Earth Day, Monday, April 22, 2024.

The TikTok Youth Climate Leaders Alliance, in partnership with the Mary Robinson Centre, is part of TikTok's wider climate commitments, which includes the overarching goal to become operationally carbon neutral by 2030, as well as advancing climate literacy and educational content within TikTok's platform.

Mary Robinson, Chair of the Elders and former President of Ireland, stated the Mary Robinson Centre's partnership with TikTok to deliver the TikTok Youth Climate Leaders Alliance is an "exciting development".

"It has the potential to deliver real impact, empowering a new generation and building a movement of young people equipped to address some of the global challenges ahead, and to drive significant change," she said. "I look forward to seeing their achievements in time."

Meanwhile, Elaine Fox of TikTok Ireland described the partnership as a privilege.

"It is truly an honour to join forces with the Chair of The Elders; distinguished former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson in the fight against climate change, and to launch the TikTok Youth Climate Leaders Alliance' in partnership with the Mary Robinson Centre," she said. "Through this partnership, we are proud to offer the climate leaders of tomorrow the resources and support to empower them to make a significant impact. This ambitious programme is just one part of TikToks work against climate change and aligns with our wider 2030 net zero commitments."
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, April 12. Tajikistan's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Ilhom Abdurahmon, and Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Co-Chairman of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan, Mukhtar Babayev, discussed bilateral cooperation within the frame of the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), Trend reports.

According to Tajikistan's Embassy in Azerbaijan, collaboration within the Third High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action Water for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028, scheduled for June in Dushanbe, was also discussed.

During the meeting, the sides touched upon the progress made in implementing previous agreements in trade, economics, industry, transportation, investment, and other areas of cooperation.

Additionally, the upcoming session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan was addressed.

Azerbaijan will host the COP29 this November. This decision was reached during the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11, 2023. In less than two weeks, Baku is poised to become the epicenter of global climate discussions, welcoming an estimated 70,000 to 80,000 foreign delegates.

According to the State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Tajikistan in 2023 amounted to $6.1 million, which accounted for 0.1 percent of Azerbaijan's total foreign trade turnover with CIS countries. This trade turnover between the two countries increased by 2.98 percent compared to 2022 ($5.9 million).

Azerbaijan's exports to Tajikistan in 2023 totaled $5 million, which is a decrease of 13.9 percent compared to 2022. Azerbaijan's imports from Tajikistan in 2023 amounted to $1.1 million, which was more than 8.13 times the level of 2022.
A large crowd gathered at the Twin Trees Hotel in Ballina, Co Mayo this evening for a public assembly over the announcement that 120 International Protection Applicants are to be accommodated at the hotel.

According to the Western People, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has agreed to use 33 of the hotels bedrooms to accommodate 120 asylum seekers.

The assembly heard from local residents and townspeople who shared their concerns about the Department's decision and its potential impact on Ballina.

A number of speakers spoke of their concern over the makeup of the asylum seekers that are to be moved into the hotel and the number of asylum seekers already situated in the Ballina area.

"We want to know who is coming in and we want to know if we are going to be safe," said Bernie O'Donnell, one speaker.

"We're here to let you know we're not going to accept any refugees at the Twin Trees. We all have to stand together and not accept this," said Declan Howley.

"This is about people power, its the only way to do it. Concerned people of Ballina, let's join up once and for all and say we're not accepting this," said Marie Graham.

Fine Gael local election candidate Hugh Rouse said the people of Ballina need to come together and stop this from happening.

"We're all neighbours, we're all from the town. We need to go though the right channels and not let this get out of control and do it peacefully for the people of Ballina," he said.

Fianna Fail TD Minister Dara Calleary, who was among the speakers, told the crowd he is planning to engage further with the Department and Minister Roderic O'Gorman in relation to this.

Fianna Fail councillor Annie May Reape told the assembly that Ballina is "over capacity."

"I think we've had enough, enough is enough for Ballina. We certainly gave over capacity and we do not have the facilities. We don't have the infrastructure, we don't have the medical centres or the schools," she said.

Fine Gael Cllr John O'Hara said there was no consultation with him or other elected members about this.

"We're here tonight to back you all up and pass on your message. Ballina has taken its fair share already," he said.

Independent Cllr Mark Duffy said councillors were only informed of this yesterday.

"The first official communication we got on this was yesterday afternoon."

"I find it difficult that we can't look after our people in difficult situations related to housing and we can accommodate people from far away."
By Cate McCurry and Cillian Sherlock, PA

Taoiseach Simon Harris has said that the point at which Ireland and Spain can recognise the State of Palestine is coming much closer.

He made the comments following a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at Government Buildings in Dublin on Friday afternoon.

The pair discussed the recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Mr Harris saying that Ireland would move with Spain and other EU countries when the time is right.

On Tuesday, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he is bringing a formal proposal to the Government after working with other countries on a joint declaration to formally recognise Palestinian statehood.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez speaks to the media. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA.

It is the second time Mr Harris and Mr Sanchez have met this week, after the Taoiseach travelled to Brussels on Thursday.

I want this afternoon to pay tribute to all those working so hard to try to bring about an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages, including through the talks in Cairo, facilitated by the US, Qatar and Egypt, Mr Harris said.

At last months meeting of the European Council, Ireland and Spain, together with Malta and Slovenia, said that we were ready to do so when the conditions are right.

Let me this evening say our assessment is that that point is coming much closer and we would like to move together in doing so.

The people of Palestine have long sought the dignity of their own country and sovereignty.

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA.

A home that like Ireland and Spain can take its place amongst the nations of the Earth.

When we move forward, we would like to do so with as many others as possible to lend weight to the decision and to send the strongest message.

The people of Israel deserve a secure and peaceful future. So do the people of Palestine. Equal sovereignty, equal respect, in a region where people of all faiths and all traditions live together in peace.

Mr Harris also said it was possible to condemn the Hamas attack on October 7th and call for the unconditional release of the remaining hostages, and to also want to see a two-state political solution.

This week, Israels ambassador to Ireland Dana Erlich claimed the Governments push to recognise Palestinian statehood is rewarding terrorism.

Its entirely possible to call out the horrors that the State of Israel suffered at the hands of Hamas whilst also saying that there must now be an immediate cessation of violence, Mr Harris said.

The scenes that were seeing in Gaza in terms of hunger, thirst, mutilation, death of innocent children, women, men, the destruction of so much civilian infrastructure, hospitals, schools, homes, has to stop.

The only way forward here is for a political peace process that brings about the two-state solution for which Ireland has been so long committed, as I know Spain has as well.

Speaking after the bi-lateral meeting, Mr Sanchez said he wanted to thank Mr Harris and his predecessor Leo Varadkar for their leadership.

We need leaders who are committed to peace, justice, human rights, and welfare  inside and outside of European boundaries, he added.

We know that the situation in the Gaza Strip is terrible and that we cant see signs of improvement.

He said that Ireland and Spain agree on the urgency for an immediate ceasefire and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza as well as the release of hostages in Gaza.

We also agree that it is vital to reach a political solution that brings peace and stability to the region and that solution must recognise the living together of two states, Palestinian and Israeli states, he added.

We, internationally, will not be able to help Palestine unless we recognise its existence and so we, both countries, have agreed to recognise Palestine as a state publicly, as soon as possible, when conditions are right.

We commit to support the recognition of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations for two reasons.

First to give a message of hope, hope for the millions of people in Gaza, Palestine and in the region who are suffering.

Secondly, because we want to show the world that in Europe, there are people who defend the international rules and order in all cases across the board.

He said he wants to see a peace process that will bring prosperity and peace to the Israelis and Palestinians.

As of now, we cannot outline a timeline, were in uncharted territory but in these circumstances if we continue on the current path it will bring more conflict, more hatred, and more problems so we have to move forward, Mr Sanchez added.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 12. Turkmenistan is currently implementing 17 projects under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program launched by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Trend reports.

According to CAREC data, the country is currently implementing projects such as Promoting Gender Equality in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Region, Strengthening Approaches for Operationalizing Diversified Growth in Central Asia (formerly Implementing Domestic Approaches on Economic Diversification Phase 1), Better Customs for Better Client Services in Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Countries, Implementing the Integrated Trade Agenda in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Program, and the National Power Grid Strengthening Project.

Furthermore, the program also implements the CAREC 2, 3, and 6 (Turkmenabat-Mary-Ashgabat-Turkmenbashi) Railway Modernization Projects, Modernizing Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures to Facilitate Trade, Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) Natural Gas Pipeline Project, Modernization of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures for Food Safety, Energy Efficiency, and Renewable Energy for Sustainable Water Management in Turkmenistan.

At the same time, the Regional Power Interconnection Project, the North-South Railway Project, Improving Energy Efficiency in the Residential Buildings Sector of Turkmenistan, the North-South Railway Project (another direction of the project), the construction of the Bereket-Etrek-Turkmenistan-Iran Border Railway, the procurement of two oil tankers, and preparing the Regional Gas Transmission Improvement Project in the Central Asia Republics are also included in the list of currently implemented projects in Turkmenistan.

Meanwhile, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) developed the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program in 1997 to promote economic cooperation between Central Asian countries and neighboring Transcaucasia and South Asia regions.
ALLENTOWN, Pa.  The school board of Allentown School District on Thursday approved the administration's applications for several million dollars in grants  one of which could bring a new facility to the district's Building 21 site.

"We are excited tonight," said district Superintendent Carol Birks.

As a districtwide "front door" to students, families and the community, the center would facilitate "access and referral to registration, career, health and adult education services."

The facility would be attached to the existing Building 21, sharing utility connections and space usage. Approximately 12,000 square feet, the new building would also offer a separate entrance with security provisions, according to board documents.

The grant is part of competitive funding available to community anchor institutions and units of local government for community projects to construct, acquire or improve buildings. Examples include shared office space, recreation centers, schools and libraries that are or will be open to the public and will directly enable work, education and health monitoring at the respective facility, according to board documents. The grant submission deadline is April 20, with potential funding of up to $2 million.

The new facility would include a centralized registration area to "streamline district resources." Students would also have the opportunity to use the health care portion of the facility to access telehealth, immunizations, physical exams and more. Planners also envision a workforce investment and adult education space that "can be shared during the school day for educational and career programming."

The district's capital reserve fund would supplement grant funds. Since the project's completion would be expected for December 2026, officials said there would be no immediate budget impact.

The scope of work would exceed the maximum amount of the grant, as it could total up to $9.6 million, officials said.

School safety system

In other grant news, the board voted to accept $45,000 from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Meritorious Grant. The grant will purchase a one-year subscription to Drift Net's KnowWhere Campus Safety System for William Allen, Louis E. Dieruff and Building 21 high schools. According to board documents, the system uses "multiple sensors to detect and alert threats in real time to administrators and first responders."

Other grants

The board also voted to accept four 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant cohorts.

The grants provide $2.2 million annually for five years across four cohorts. The money is allocated with $600,000 per year going to Central, Jackson, Lehigh Parkway, Muhlenberg, Ramos, and Union Terrace elementary schools.

An allocation of $500,000 per year will go to Building 21, Louis E. Dieruff and William Allen high schools, as well as Harrison-Morton, South Mountain, Raub Middle and Trexler middle schools.

The 21st Century Community Learning Center program provides federal funding for community learning centers. The centers offer academic enrichment and tutoring opportunities for students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools to meet state standards in the core academic subjects of English language arts, math and science, board documents said. The grant also offers tutoring support, homework help, credit recovery and STEM enrichment activities.

Officials said that the program also provides meals to children after school and cares for children whose parents might be working.

The grant will bring the entire district to 21st Century programming, said Robin Harris, chief outreach officer for family and community engagement.

The board also approved three additional grant applications through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant program from the Commonwealth Financing Agency. The program requires a 25% match from the district from the capital reserves fund.

The first of these grants is for $4.1 million for the Roosevelt, Mosser and South Mountain elementary schools' HVAC project. The second is for William Allen High School's central heating plant, with a $5.8 million price tag. Lastly, a $6.6 million grant could fund the renovation of the William Allen High School natatorium.

Budget and demographics presentation

Interim CFO presents district's proposed $436 million 2024-25 budget The district's finance committee heard a report on the proposed 2024-25 budget Thursday night, as well as information about the district's demographics.

In other news, at a meeting of the district's finance committee, also held Thursday, Jeffrey Cuff, interim chief financial officer for the district, presented on the district's $436 million 2024-25 budget and information about the district's demographics.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 12. Uzbekistan will allocate 1.5 trillion soums ($118.2 million) for cultivation, storage, sorting, processing, and export of high-yielding and export-oriented agricultural products by the end of the year, Trend reports.

This was reflected in a decree signed by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on support measures for farmers, producers, and exporters of agricultural products.

Moreover, revolving loans of up to 1.5 billion soums ($118,226) will be allocated to exporters from these funds at a rate 4 percent above the main rate of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan. The repayment period will be up to three years, with a six-month grace period.

Credit resources will be provided through the small business support program.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan will support entrepreneurs in developing business plans.

People with craft talents will receive assistance in obtaining supplies, equipment, and working capital.

Employees from local regions and all economic departments will participate in the work in the local mahallas. They will examine household potential and, for example, develop a strategy for effectively using homestead plots to enhance revenue by 6070 million soums ($4,7685,622).
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 12. The value of Uzbekneftegaz's (Uzbekistan's state oil and gas company) exports amounted to $158.5 million from January through March 2024, Trend reports.

The data from Uzbekneftegaz shows that this indicator exceeded the projected number by 123 percent, or $29.7 million, during this period.

The company's estimated export volume was $128.8 million.

Meanwhile, the volume of Uzbekistan's exports of goods and services (besides non-monetary gold) amounted to $2.31 billion from January through February 2024, which is more than 14.9 percent year-on-year.

The data from Uzbekistan's Statistics Agency shows that the main export partners of goods and services in the foreign trade turnover were Russia, China, Turkiye, Kazakhstan, France, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan from January through 2024. Their share in the total volume of exports reached 42.1 percent.

In the structure of exports, 79.9 percent are goods, of which industrial goods account for 16.8 percent, food products and live animals for 6.5 percent, and chemicals and similar products for 6.6 percent. Other types of goods amount to 36.4 percent.

Furthermore, the total volume of Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover amounted to over $9.89 billion from January through February this year. Imports reached $6.28 billion (an increase of 8.7 percent).
Sankofa - Columbian Dance Company

When: Wednesday, 17 April 2024 - Wednesday, 17 April 2024 Where: Wits Theatre

Start time: 16:00 Enquiries: Twitter Instagram RSVP: lerato.sekele@wits.ac.za Cost: Free Event

Join us in welcoming Sankofa, a Colombian dance company, on their tour to South Africa.

This international act is in South Africa as part of a series to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the establishment of relations between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Colombia.

This dance initiative promotes a differential and intercultural framework through diverse pedagogical dance and theatre projects involving black and other vulnerable communities in Colombia to educate and create danza.

Sankofa's work is oriented to the search for poetics that start from the roots of Afro dance, developed within the framework of the everyday, the traditional and the contemporary, as an option for social bonding, personal growth and positioning of local cultures in the national dynamic.
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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 12. The second Ministerial Meeting of the "Central Asia  Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf" (GCC) will be held in Tashkent on April 15, 2024, Trend reports.

According to Uzbekistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delegations from Central Asian countries (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan) and GCC member countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia) are expected to participate in the meeting.

During the meeting, the participants will review the implementation of the agreements reached within the framework of the First Summit of Central Asia and the GCC. Furthermore, they will discuss the development of cooperation in political, trade and economic, investment, transport and communication, cultural, and humanitarian areas, as well as in the fields of security and environmental protection.

There will also be an exchange of views on preparations for the next Summit in the "Central Asia  Gulf Cooperation Council" format in Samarkand in 2025.

In addition, the participants plan to adopt a joint statement at the end of the event.

Meanwhile, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev participated in the first summit of the leaders of the Central Asian countries and the Cooperation Council of the Arab States of the Gulf.

In his speech, he put forward an initiative to create a Joint Investor Council with the participation of business representatives and hold its first meeting in Samarkand (Uzbekistan), the urgency of creating a free trade zone with the Gulf countries, and called on partners to take an active part in the strategic project for the construction of the Trans-Afghan Railway, which will connect the Gulf states with Central Asia along the shortest route.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. The recent terrorist attack in Moscow has been pinned on France, particularly on President Emmanuel Macron. This viewpoint was voiced by Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Head of the Russian Security Council.

The choice of the Crocus Concert Hall, owned by businessmen of Azerbaijani origin, as the site of the incident, was not coincidental. It seems that it served the interests of French intelligence to undermine relations between Baku and Moscow, stirring up discord along religious and national interests in Russia.

Meanwhile, France's backing of international terrorism has garnered condemnation worldwide long ago.

French cement giant Lafarge has previously been accused of funding ISIS. The lawsuit against the company alleges that Lafarge "actively supported and incited acts of international terrorism by ISIS, conspired with ISIS and its intermediaries, and must provide compensation to the survivors". Later, Turkish intelligence put an end to the operation of this plant in northern Syria.

Paris is also a key sponsor of the Armenian Secret Army for the Liberation of Armenia (ASALA). It was revealed in December last year that Armenian extremists were undergoing a process of rehabilitation in France, supported by French intelligence and special services. There are reports indicating that certain specialized French schools are providing terrorist training to ASALA members. Right now, France is assembling a legion of Karabakh Armenians and attempting to deploy them to the Ukrainian front.

Can a country actively endorsing international terrorism cut it among the so-called "civilized" nations? Certainly not. And President Macron was destined to become an accomplice to this.
[tuchong]

With enrollments falling, China's excess kindergartens could be transformed into daycare centers to make up for a shortfall in the nation's childcare resources and to relieve burdens on parents, according to an education expert.

There were 274,400 kindergartens in China last year, with 40.93 million children enrolled, the Ministry of Education said at a news conference last month.

The number of preschool children last year dropped 5.35 million from 2022 and has seen a decrease for three consecutive years, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

Xiong Bingqi, director of the 21st Century Education Research Institute, said the decline of children in kindergartens is closely related to the decrease in births since 2017.

The nationwide peak in births in 2017, a direct result of the two-child policy implemented in the early 2010s, had the knock-on effect of peaking kindergarten enrollment in 2020 at 48.18 million, its highest point in 17 years.

"Since 2020, the number of kids entering kindergartens has reduced, and it will keep dropping rapidly in the future in line with the declining birth rate," Xiong said.

Births in China in 2021, 2022 and 2023 were 10.62 million, 9.56 million and 9.02 million respectively, according to the NBS.

By 2026, with all children born from 2021 to 2023 enrolled in kindergartens, the total number of preschoolers will be just over 29 million, which is about 12 million fewer than last year, Xiong said.

"It is essential to plan for the development of preschool education based on changes in birth rates," he said.

"If the teacher-to-child ratio remains at the current level, many kindergartens may face closure, and early childhood educators might be at risk of unemployment," Xiong said.

Guo Peng, head of the ministry's department of development planning, said the number of full-time teachers in preschool education hit 3.07 million last year, with one teacher for every 13 children, an improvement from one teacher for every 16 children in 2022.

To address the inevitable surplus of kindergarten capacity, many sites could be turned into inclusive childcare facilities, according to Xiong, accommodating children under the age of 3 and also addressing the national shortage in childcare.

"Childcare services for children age 0 to 3 in China are mainly provided by private institutions, leading to a lack of spaces and difficulty getting in," he said.

Health authorities have been promoting childcare development and encouraging social entities to establish childcare facilities.

The National Health Commission said in late February that there are nearly 100,000 institutions providing childcare services nationwide, with approximately 4.8 million childcare spaces, which is currently insufficient.

"A more practical and effective approach would be to leverage the surplus of kindergarten capacities resulting from the decreasing preschool children and allocate them to toddlers under 3 years old, thereby promoting inclusive childcare," Xiong said.

Political adviser Su Hua said promoting the development of preschool education and inclusive childcare is not only crucial for ensuring that young children receive high-quality education, but also for alleviating burdens on families in terms of both childcare and education.

"Kindergartens can explore personalized childcare services tailored to children age 0 to 3 years old," said Su, who is also the vice-chairman of the National Association of Vocational Education.

Su is researching the scientific adjustment in demand between decreasing kindergarten candidates and insufficient childcare services for toddlers under 3 years old.

Before this year's two sessions that concluded early last month, Su visited a kindergarten at Deyang Foreign Languages School in Sichuan province to learn about its approach to education and teaching facilities.

The private kindergarten includes both regular classes for children over age 3 and childcare services for toddlers. In the morning, children of the daycare class engaged in sensory games under the guidance of teachers. Most of them had adapted well to group activities, Su said.

In the "forest town" set up in the school, children in the kindergarten class dressed as postal workers and rode scooters through the corridors to deliver mail, while others wearing safety helmets played the role of construction workers.

When Su asked about their work, a young "construction worker" said they were building a park.

"Starting vocational education from a young age helps children understand the concepts of labor," Su said, adding that vocational enlightenment in kindergarten can allow children to develop an initial understanding of society.

Qiu Xuejiao, vice-principal of the kindergarten, said the preschool education management has been adjusted according to the changing population.

"In the past, there was more emphasis on the construction of more kindergartens in local communities. However, with the changing demographics in the country, some institutions have insufficient enrollment, leading to closures and mergers," Qiu said.

Meanwhile, kindergartens could open both long-term and temporary daycare classes to supplement childcare services, Qiu said.

According to Su's investigation, infants under 6 months old are mainly taken care of at home, and the caring of those age 6 months to 2 years requires high standards of hygiene and safety.

Early education is needed for children age 2 to 3, so it's suitable to integrate childcare and early education in kindergartens into this group, Su said.

China's preschool education has initially addressed the difficulty in enrollment and high costs. However, challenges remain in the uneven development of preschool education in rural and urban areas, as well as the imbalanced supply-demand structure of resources, Su said.

Currently, there is an opportunity for comprehensively advancing high-quality development in early childhood education, which needs timely adjustments to the goals of early childhood education.

He suggested that kindergartens could have more flexible operating models; for instance, establishing daycare centers in densely populated communities to meet diverse needs.

Additionally, the quality of care and education needs to be enhanced, with more financial investment in place, he added.

Li Guohua, a national political adviser and an official with the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang, said the challenges of early childhood education could also provide an opportunity to promote high-quality development and free access.

For instance, public first-tier kindergartens in Shanghai charge a monthly tuition fee of 225 yuan ($31.2), Li said, while proposing universal free access to early childhood education in China.

"By exempting tuition fees for kindergarten education while continuing to collect fees for meals and childcare supplies, we can gradually incorporate early childhood education into compulsory education," Li said.

He also called for further reducing the teacher-child ratio, as the current guidelines for staffing standards in kindergartens were issued 11 years ago, stipulating that each kindergarten class should have two full-time teachers, and the ratio of childcare staff to children should be between one staff member for every seven to nine children.

He recommended a revision of the standards, taking current requirements for high-quality development into account.

Dong Yuzheng, president of the Guangdong Social Sciences Association, said the investment and allocation of educational resources should be adjusted along with the changes in population structure.

As the population concentrates toward large and medium-sized cities, rural areas and smaller towns experience a decrease in population, which also leads to a reduction of preschool students, Dong told media outlet Yicai.com.

The adjustments and merging of rural educational institutions are becoming a major trend, he said.

Some education authorities have already taken measures to adjust school layouts in accordance with new changes in the school-age population.

In November, the education department in Hunan province issued a notice on optimizing the layout of kindergartens, as well as primary and secondary schools in response to population changes.

The notice suggested organizing the orderly establishment, conversion and closure of kindergartens. A batch of public kindergartens should be built or renovated in areas with growing urban populations, while new kindergartens should not be established in rural areas, it said.

(Source: China Daily)
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Ma Ying-jeou in Beijing, capital of China, April 10, 2024. [Xinhua/Ju Peng]

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua)  The recent meeting of Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, with a Taiwan delegation led by Ma Ying-jeou has injected stability and positive energy into the relations across the Taiwan Strait.

Wednesday's meeting in Beijing marked the first time Xi had received Taiwan compatriots and delivered an important speech since the 20th CPC National Congress in late 2022.

The meeting took place amidst a complex and challenging situation in the Taiwan Strait. "Taiwan independence" separatists, in collusion with external forces, have made provocations to seek independence, further escalating tensions in the Strait.

Xi's speech, filled with deep affection and goodwill towards Taiwan compatriots, will surely further unite compatriots on both sides of the Strait to achieve national reunification.

Throughout its development journey, the Chinese nation has created a history demonstrating the inseparable connection between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Although the mainland and Taiwan are yet to be reunified, the fact that both belong to one China and one nation has never changed, and national reunification remains an irreversible trend.

Confronted with the activities of "Taiwan independence" separatists colluding with foreign forces to undermine the development of their shared homeland, every member of the Chinese nation must unite in resolve to oppose and crack down on such actions.

Compatriots across the Taiwan Strait should join hands to create a bright future of peaceful reunification, firmly holding the destiny of the Chinese nation in their own hands.

During the meeting, Xi emphasized that improving the well-being of people across the Strait is the driving force and objective behind efforts to advance cross-Strait relations.

He underscored the mainland's genuine sincerity and goodwill in benefiting Taiwan compatriots.

The mainland will continue enhancing systems and policies aimed at improving the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, maintaining its commitment to ensuring a better life for people on both sides of the Strait.

The mainland has always kept its doors open to Taiwan compatriots, actively fostering cross-Strait exchanges, interactions, and mutual understanding.

It also unites all sectors of Taiwan society for concerted efforts to eliminate political obstacles and facilitate normal and regular exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in advancing cross-Strait relations, the mainland will implement more vigorous policies and measures to facilitate the sound development and success of youth across the Taiwan Strait.

(Source: Xinhua)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Slovenia will support Palestine's application to join the UN as a permanent member during a vote at a meeting of the organization's Security Council, Secretary of State for National and International Security under the Cabinet of the Prime Minister of Slovenia Vojko Volk said, Trend reports.

"Slovenia, together with France and Malta, will support this decision [Palestine's application to join the UN as a permanent member], in which our republic sincerely believes. We believe that Palestine belongs in the UN and has the right to vote in this organization," he said.
Wrexham University event celebrates successful and inspiring small businesses

This article is old - Published: Friday, Apr 12th, 2024

A celebration of entrepreneurship at Wrexham University has highlighted successful and inspiring small businesses to students.

On Wednesday 20 March the university played host to a successful Celebration of Entrepreneurship in the Reception and Gallery spaces at Plas Coch Campus.

The event, which hosted over 200 attendees, gave students the opportunity to network with local entrepreneurs and build connections with business support providers Business Wales and Business and Investment from Wrexham Council.

Also in attendance was Wrexhams Mayor Councillor Andy Williams and the Universitys Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive Maria Hinfelaar.

Wrexham University Entrepreneurship Coordinator, Sasha Kenney said: The aim of this event was to raise the visibility of local entrepreneurship within the University and highlight the importance of entrepreneurial skills for our learners.

Our exhibitors provided real-world examples of how students can harness their business ideas to contribute to both the local and global economy.

The event provided a platform for inspiring, educating and connecting like-minded individuals within our vibrant community.

At the event, exhibitors took the opportunity to engage attendees with their businesses and products whilst keynote speakers provided students with an insight into their own entrepreneurial experiences.

On opening the event, The Mayor of Wrexham Cllr Andy Williams, said: [I am] thrilled to join the Wrexham University community in celebrating entrepreneurship.

This event is testament to the forward-thinking spirit driving our citys future.

Vice Chancellor Maria Hinfelaar added: At Wrexham University we pride ourselves on supporting learners with their next steps beyond university.

It is fantastic to see so many learners engage in entrepreneurship with such commitment and dedication as we see here today.

Our dedicated Enterprise Lounge is an excellent resource for our students to utilise and gain support from our Entrepreneurship Team.

Entrepreneurial students from Wrexham Universitys Regent Street campus were also able to showcase their creative businesses at the event with stands selling a range of artwork, ceramics, print, and textiles.

Ceramic artist, Connor Townley, said: The celebration of entrepreneurship event gave me the amazing opportunity to meet The Mayor of Wrexham and have the honour of him purchasing my work.

More can be found on Wrexham Universitys Enhancing Entrepreneurship team through the following social media channels:

Instagram: @wuenhance

Facebook: Enhancing Entrepreneurship at Wrexham University

X (Twitter): @Wuenhance
4m boost for Wales hospices amid calls for sustainable and equitable funding solution for the sector

This article is old - Published: Friday, Apr 12th, 2024

A Wrexham-based hospice will receive more than 363,000 in Welsh Government funding to help continue its vital work.

Nightingale House Hospice is one of 12 commissioned hospices across Wales to get a share of a 4m fund announced today by Health Secretary Eluned Morgan.

The funding will ensure people across Wales continue to receive palliative and end-of-life care from the network of hospices, which traditionally rely on fundraising and charitable donations.

But the cost-of-living crisis has made fundraising increasingly difficult, making it harder for hospices to retain and recruit staff  some have had to consider whether they can continue to maintain services.

The 4m aims to help the hospices maintain services, meet staffing costs, and improve the quality of end-of-life care provided to individuals and families.

Nightingale House Hospice, on Chester Road, will receive 363,710.00.

More than 770,000 will go to the two childrens hospices  Ty Gobaith and Ty Hafan  which support children and young people living with a life-limiting condition.

Other hospices to benefit include St Kentigern Hospice (224,203.00), Marie Curie Hospice (1,099,743.00) and Severn Hospice (43,740.00).

Hospices and end-of-life care services are highly valued, and they play a really important role in supporting families at some of the most difficult times in their lives, said Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Eluned Morgan.

They also support the NHS to provide essential care to around 20,000 who need palliative and end-of-life care every year.

This funding will help to ensure they can continue to provide these vital services and keep on providing high-quality care across Wales.

Hospice representatives have today called for a sustainable and equitable funding solution which recognises the demand for palliative care.

Chair of Hospices Cymru and Chief Executive for City Hospice, Liz Booyse said: Every year, thousands of adults and children facing life-limiting illnesses turn to charitable hospices in Wales for expert care and trusted support, for them and their families.

Members of Hospices Cymru welcome Welsh Governments recognition and support of the essential role Welsh hospices play in delivering palliative care and end-of-life services, in collaboration with the NHS.

As the demand for our services continues to grow, we also welcome Welsh Governments commitment to develop a sustainable funding arrangement with Welsh hospices.

This commitment is vital for ensuring the ongoing continuity of the critical services we provide to communities across Wales.

Policy and Advocacy Manager Wales for Hospice UK, Matthew Brindley said: We welcome Welsh Governments recognition and support for Welsh hospices as valued and equal partners with the NHS.

This support will help ensure our members can continue providing essential care to 20,000 people affected by terminal illnesses each year, taking pressure off the NHS.

But hospices still face an uncertain future with ever-increasing complexity of care and cost of living pressures.

This money gives hospices much-needed support and security now, but we will need to work with Welsh Government and Health Boards to develop a more sustainable and equitable funding solution that recognises the critical partnership role Welsh hospices play delivering care with our NHS colleagues.

Marie Curie Cymru Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships and Services, Rachel Jones, said: Todays announcement of funding to support charitable hospices in Wales is welcome but we need a more sustainable funding model.

Charitable hospices in Wales, like the Marie Curie Hospice, Cardiff and the Vale, are vital partners to the wider health and social care system.

Providing essential care and support to individuals at the end of life and those close to them and reducing pressures on the NHS.

As a charity, we are fortunate to have amazing supporters who help raise vital funds to enable us to deliver services to support and care for individuals and their loved ones across Wales, but relying on this generosity is not sustainable and we are not isolated from the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis.

With more people requiring palliative and end of life care in the future it is critical that we can continue to explore what is needed to establish a genuinely sustainable funding model to ensure that people receive the best possible palliative and end of life care.

We look forward to continuing to work with the National Programme Board for Palliative and End of Life Care on this.

The funding is part of phase 3 of the Welsh Governments end-of-life care review; 4m was provided to support hospices in 2023-24.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has arrived in Belarus, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement, Trend reports.

According to information, the next meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the CIS countries will be held here.

"Lavrov arrived in Minsk, where a meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers will be held under his chairmanship," the ministry says.

.
SEP Melbourne forum passes resolution on Julian Assange

The Socialist Equality Party and International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) held a joint forum in Melbourne last week to demand the immediate release from prison of WikiLeaks journalist Julian Assange.

Around 40 people attended in person and online, including workers, retirees, and university students. Many of these had recently joined the SEP as electoral members, supporting its campaign for formal party registration to ensure there is a socialist, anti-war party on the ballot at the next federal election.

Taylor Hernan, a member of the IYSSE in Melbourne, chaired the meeting, which was addressed by longstanding SEP member Will Marshall. The speakers detailed the 14-year US-led pursuit of Assange, because of his courageous exposure of war crimes. They explained that with the WikiLeaks founder closer to being extradited to his persecutors in the US than ever before, the critical issue was to mobilise the working class for his freedom, as part of the struggle against imperialist war.

A lively discussion followed the opening report. Participants asked questions about the attempted Swedish frame-up of Assange on bogus allegations of sexual misconduct, the level of support among ordinary people that Assange had won through his work, how to build an antiwar movement, and the SEPs plans for the next election campaign.

Will Marshall addressing the forum

The meeting unanimously passed the following resolution:

This forum demands the immediate and unconditional release of imprisoned journalist Julian Assange.

The WikiLeaks publisher has been subjected to more than a decade-long US-led vendetta. Successive Democrat and Republican administrations, backed by successive Labor and Liberal-National Australian governments, targeted Assange because he exposed the rampant criminality of US imperialism in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world. Attempts to railroad Assange into prison in the USor kill him in the effort to do soaims at silencing him, destroying WikiLeaks, and deterring any other whistleblowers and journalists from revealing further state criminality.

This forum condemns in the strongest terms the Labor government of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, which is maintaining the filthy record of its predecessors in collaborating with the bogus US prosecution under the Espionage Act. Albaneses statements that enough is enough and that the case ought to be concluded are nothing more than hot air. Underlying this occasional rhetoric is support for Washington to proceed.

The latest court proceedings in the UK underscore the urgency of the fight to free Assange. Last week, the High Court in London rejected most of the grounds of Assanges appeal and permitted the US to issue assurances that could nullify the remaining grounds and clear the way for a speedy dispatch to the US gulag.

This forum urges the widest mobilisation in defence of Julian Assange. The campaign cannot be based on futile appeals to the Australian, British, and American governments. Instead it must be oriented towards the building of an independent defence campaign in the working class. The essential task is to link the WikiLeaks publishers defence to the mass movement against war. The eruption of militarism and aggression fuelling the pursuit of Assange is at the same time producing a mass radicalisation among workers and young people revolted by the genocide in Gaza and the threat of a wider war internationally. We call for resolutions defending Assange to be moved in workplaces, union meetings, and student and youth meetings, and the widest involvement in demonstrations and other actions organised to demand his freedom.

Gracie

Afterwards, Victoria University student Gracie told the WSWS: I thought the forum was great and really informative. A lot of the information, especially the details, I hadnt heard about before. I have been aware of Julian Assange since I was young, seeing Free Assange graffiti in the city and hearing my parents, who are Assange supporters, have conversations about him. I think his contribution is massive. You can see that in his persecutionif what he revealed wasnt valuable and didnt need to come out, he wouldnt be persecuted by imperialist governments as hard as he has been.

Julian has been placed in really appalling and dehumanising conditions and that will have taken a horrible mental toll on him. Its a further attack on free speech. The US government wants to make an example of himthis is what happens if you speak out against capitalism and imperialism.

Gracie drew a connection with Israels genocide in Gaza, backed by all the imperialist powers including Australia. I think its absolutely appalling, she said. People can follow it more closely through social media and seeing people on the ground, of videos coming out from there, theres no hiding it and yet, the Israeli state is still able to get away with it. Governments do not care, because its a step in their plan towards war and further imperialism. I think the protests are fantastic in that you can see the passion of general people. They show that people know that whats happening is wrong. But there needs to be a step beyond thata shift in perspective.

She spoke about her support for the SEPs campaign to secure electoral reaffiliation. I think an electoral ballot is where people often look if they know that things are wrong and they need to change but they dont really know where to start. So I think a genuinely socialist party having exposure on an electoral ballot is important. Especially for workers who vote socialist, they might be prompted to look further into it and you gain another person who genuinely wants social change.

Crystal

Another Victoria University student, Crystal, said: All of the governments benefit from Julian Assange being silenced, that is why none of them are doing anything about it. If you approached just about anybody on the street and said, Hey, what do you think about whats going on?, they are going to say, I dont agree with it, Julian Assange has to be freed. Theres an agreement that this is wrongbut no government is going to do anything as they benefit from the situation. The working class, and the people in a very general sense, we deserve to know what is happening, we deserve to know the crimes that our governments are willing to take part in.

She added: Linking it back to Gaza, we are seeing literal textbook war crimes, textbook genocide happening in front of us, and nothing is happening. Crystal said this was part of a developing world war. It is brewing in the distance, but everybody is liking to pretend that its not happening, even when all of the governments are directly involved.

Crystal concluded: I grew up working class myself, and came from a cycle of poverty and still am in a cycle of poverty. I remember being a teenager, a high school aged girl, reading about WikiLeaks, reading about Julian Assange, about this man who is doing more than I could ever imagine to expose the truth. We collectively have a right to know, and I believe very strongly that the importance of people like Julian Assange cannot be understated, the importance of people like him who do put their entire lives on the line very literally, to fight for what they believe in, and to expose the truth. If we lose him, what are we going to lose next? If they can put him away, put him to death, drive him to suicide, which is what they want to do, who are they going to do it to next? Who are they going to silence next?

I believe in socialism, I believe in what the party fights for. I feel like being able to do my part, especially as a younger person, is important. Younger people are among the ones most suffering under capitalism.
More writers have declined to participate in the writers advocacy organization PEN Americas events and refused PENs awards, or even consideration for such awards, because the organization steadfastly refuses to condemn Israels mass murder in Gaza.

The actions follow the withdrawal last month of many writers from the annual PEN World Voices Festival in New York City and Los Angeles, scheduled for April/May. This, in turn, followed the January refusal by authors Angela Flournoy and Kathleen Alcott to participate in a PEN event in response to the organizations decision to provide a platform for arch-Zionist actress Mayim Bialik. In February, hundreds of writers signed a letter protesting PEN Americas tacit support of the Gaza genocide.

According to Literary Hub on April 10, esteemed translator Esther Allen, who co-founded the PEN World Voices Festival in 2005, has declined the 2024 PEN/Ralph Manheim Award for Translation.

Allen explained on Twitter/ X that she had also declined the prize in solidarity with PEN America employees whom the organization is proposing to silence through a clause in their upcoming contract:

I declined the PEN/Ralph Manheim Award for Translation, in solidarity with the 1300+ writers who've decried @PENamericas silence on the genocidal murder of Palestinians, & with the @united_PEN fight to maintain free speech for PEN employees.

Author Camonghne Felix publicly declined her nomination on the long list for her memoir Dyscalculia (2024) for the PEN Jill Stein award, noting on Twitter/X:

I decided to decline this recognition and asked to be removed from the longlist in solidarity with the ongoing protest of PEN's continued normalization and denial of genocide.

Hangman, Maya Binyam

Maya Binyam, also longlisted for her novel Hangman (2024) for the Jill Stein Award posted on Twitter/X:

I find it shameful that this recognition [of the novel] should exist under the banner of PEN America., whose leadership has been steadfast in its dismissal of the ongoing genocide, and of the historic struggle for Palestinian liberation. Calling for a ceasefire without insisting on the end of the Israeli occupation; Pledging $100,000 to Palestinian writers while issuing statements that locate the origins of their annihilation in Hamas. These aren't olive branches. They are insults.

She continued,

I urge an immediate change in leadership. PEN America CEO, Suzanne Nossel, PEN America President Jennifer Finney Boylan, and the PEN America Executive Committee have failed to rescue public trust in the organization. Their allegiances and values have steered PEN America away from its charter and have jeopardized the safety and livelihoods of the writers they claim to represent. PEN America's leadership should be ashamed that their failures have forced these decisions onto authors whose work deserves to be celebrated.

Eugenia Leigh (eugenialeigh.com)

Korean American Eugenia Leigh, whose book of poetry, Bianca (2024) named to the longlist for the PEN/Voelcker Award for Poetry, also resigned from consideration for the award, asserting on Twitter/X:

I have withdrawn from consideration for the 2024 PEN/Voelcker Award for Poetry. I made this choice in keeping with the boycott sustained against @penamerica , and in solidarity with Palestine.

Kelly X. Hui announced on twitter that she was turning down the PEN/Robert J. Dau Short Story Prize for Emerging Writers award for her short story, Daughterhouse. On Twitter/X she noted:

Ive just turned down the pen/dau prize, in solidarity with palestine + the protest against pen americas refusal to take a clear, principled stance on the israeli genocide against the palestinian people.

Nick Mandernach, another recipient of the PEN/Dau prize also declined the award.

In solidarity with 1300+ protesting authors I declined the PEN/DAU Prize  Theres a collective action against PEN America and we should be in lock step with Palestinian writers.

Ghassan Abou-Zeineddine (Oberlin College)

Author Ghassan Zeineddine also announced on Twitter/X that he had withdrawn his short-story collection Dearborn(2023) from consideration or the PEN Americas Robert W. Bingham Prize for Debut Short Story Collection longlist

in solidarity with the writers who have called out PEN Americas failure to speak against the daily injustices and atrocities in Gaza and the West Bank.

Translator Adrian Minckley declined PEN Americas translating award for his translation of Brazilian writer Marcia Barbieris novel The Whore (2023). Minckley said on Twitter/X:

I declined a @PENamerica translation prize nomination and you should too! Down with the genocide enabling that is structural to the Art World. Long live Palestine.

The publisher of Minckleys translation, Sublunary Editions, also declined the award, noting,

This year, we (Sublunary Editions and the nominated translators) declined to participate in @PENamerica's annual awards. We did not feel we could do so in good conscience, given their utter failure to address an ongoing genocide.

The four judges of PEN Americas translation prize, Larissa Kyzer, Hanna Leliv, Parisa Saranj and Jenna Tang, issued a statement condemning the organization:

We are not, however, proud to be associated with PEN America at this time  we cannot conscience the way an organization specifically dedicated to free speech and freedom of expression, to the right of writers of and journalists to live and work in safety, has continuously withheld meaningful comment, has stifled dissent both within its ranks and at its events, and has attempted to sweep criticism and critique under the rug instead of participating in a good-faith dialogue about ways to meaningfully redress its wrongs and take a new path going forward.

Exhibiting its typical lack of good faith and its ability to smile insincerely and talk around the mass killing of Palestinian civilians, PEN America noted in a statement to Literary Hub,

We respect all those who have communicated with us, publicly and privately, about the current Gaza war, and recognize the profound stakes and pain involved. We will also continue to support writers in Gaza and the West Bank, as we explained in a recent letter to the community.

PEN Americas leadership did not hire former state department official Suzanne Nossel as its CEO without reason. Not only do her connections to the capitalist state, the Democratic Party and the policy goals of American imperialism, including corraling American writers behind the program of endless war, play a significant role in her leadership, but so does the ability to talk out of both sides of her mouth in times of mounting crisis.

Nonetheless, the defection of dozens of writers from PEN America is a debacle for the organization, and a slap in the face for the Biden administration and its orbit.

The most serious, thoughtful artists have begun to break with the official policies of the museums, art galleries, universities and professional associations over the vital and decisive question of genocide and world war, one that is emerging in the Middle East, Eastern Europe and East Asia.

That opposition, however, must take on a conscious and historically informed character, one which will lead to a turn to the great social power of the international working class.
As part of the state visit this week by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Biden held a lavish reception Wednesday at the White House.

The subject of the visit is incorporating Japan into American war plans against China, including integrating it into the AUKUS (Australia, UK, US) anti-China military pact. The core of our global partnership is our bilateral defense and security cooperation under the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security, which is stronger than ever, an official US statement on the visit declared. We affirm that our Alliance remains the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

In plain language, two colonial powers, the US and Japan, which set the Asia-Pacific region ablaze in the 20th century, including through Japans invasion of China prior to and during WWII and the American wars in Korea and Vietnam, are now joining forces to reinforce their imperialist domination over the region, including against nuclear-armed China.

The imperialist aims of the visit was shown by the attendance at Wednesdays reception. It consisted almost entirely of billionaires and warmongers. This included, in addition to leaders of the American military-intelligence apparatus, JP Morgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, Tim Cook of Apple 

 and United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain.

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, left, speaks as President Joe Biden looks on during a campaign stop at a phone bank in the UAW Region 1 Union Hall, Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024, in Warren, Mich. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

Fains presence was the natural outcome of the role of both Fain personally and the trade union apparatus as a whole. This is in, fact, Fains fifth public appearance with Biden since last November, including his presence as a guest at the State of the Union Address last month, a warmongering speech where Biden acknowledged Fain as a great friend and labor leader. 

The Socialist Equality Partys presidential candidate Joe Kishore wrote in a statement on Twitter/X:

Fains participation in the event expresses, through the ceremonial pomp of a state dinner, the Democrats strategy of corporatism, that is, the integration of the trade union apparatus into the corporate-state-military apparatus. The immediate issue is the escalating conflict with China. As part of the preparation for war, Japan is set to join the AUKUS military pact between the US, Britain and Australia. Both the genocide in Gaza and the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine are seen by the ruling class as part of a global war that includes, centrally, a confrontation with China. The role of Fain & Co. in the union apparatus is to discipline the working class, suppress the class struggle and back the ruling class war policy. When the UAW endorsed Biden in January, UAW members protesting the genocide were dragged away by the Secret Service as Fain stood by. Fain said to Biden that it was time for us to go to war and put the power of the membership behind you. The UAW president was in fact pledging to Biden to send workers to fight and die in wars on behalf of US imperialism. The war abroad is at the same time a war on the working class at home. The massive sums allocated to the military must be paid for through intensified exploitation and the gutting of social programs and infrastructure.

In the months before the outbreak of World War II, Leon Trotsky once observed: In periods of acute class struggle, the leading bodies of the trade unions aim to become masters of the mass movement in order to render it harmless. In time of war or revolution, when the bourgeoisie is plunged into exceptional difficulties, trade union leaders usually become bourgeois ministers.

Shawn Fain is one of the prominent representatives of this process today. His political star is rapidly rising, and a government position may well be in his near future.

But whatever the case may be, Fain has been, from the beginning, a creature of the state. A career official with no connection to the rank-and-file, he was first elevated to power under an unprecedented crisis in the UAW bureaucracy, which was both decimated by a series of corruption indictments and widely hated by the rank-and-file after decades of pro-company sellouts.

The government intervention into the UAW was designed to reinforce the control of the apparatus over the rank-and-file. Fain won election in a sham vote where more workers failed to receive ballots than actually voted, in an act of vote suppression designed to circumvent the membership and keep the election under the control of the bureaucracy.

Fain received the key support of pseudo-left groupings like the Democratic Socialists of America and Labor Notes, who promoted him as the beginning of a new era of democratic renewal within the bureaucracy. At the same time, they opposed the candidacy of Will Lehman, a socialist autoworker running on a platform of abolishing the apparatus.

The pseudo-left also rode Fains coattails into the apparatus. Labor Notes editor Jonah Furman was hired as Fains communications director, and several members of the Labor Notes-backed Unite All Workers for Democracy faction were elevated into the top leadership.

But Fain is only a representative of a broader process. In the Teamsters, Sean OBrien was elevated to the presidency, likewise with the support of the pseudo-left. After pretending to prepare the membership for national strike action at UPS, his administration pushed through a contract last year which is now being used to lay off tens of thousands and close 200 facilities.

In one industry after another, Biden is joining forces with the union bureaucracy to impose sellout contracts, to limit or prevent strikes and to pave the way for mass layoffs. Where workers have rebelled against sellout contracts, such as in 2022 when railroaders rejected a Biden-brokered deal, he responded by banning strike action.

Meanwhile, in his speeches, Biden has increasingly referenced the so-called Arsenal of Democracy in reality, the wartime alliance of US capitalism with the trade union officials to ban strikes during World War II, as the blueprint for his administrations policies. In plain language, this means funneling money away from workers to the American war machine while placing workers under military-style discipline with the support of the bureaucracy.

The pseudo-left plays a critical role in this corporatist policy. Next weekend, Shawn Fain will travel to Chicago for Labor Notes biennial convention. Attendees will hear not only from Fain, but major Democratic Party politicians, such as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

To confuse and disrupt opposition to war, especially to the genocide in Gaza, the pseudo-left has put forward ceasefire resolutions in the UAW and other trade unions. The aim is to present the union apparatus as a vehicle for the fight against war even when it rubs elbows with war criminals and billionaires while dining on prime rib at the White House.

Workers must draw the necessary conclusions. The fight of workers against corporate exploitation requires the development of a rank-and-file rebellion against the apparatus, Kishore wrote. At the same time, the fight against war must be rooted in the industrial and political mobilization of the working class.

The fight against war and the fight against exploitation at home, he continued, are in reality, one war. He continued: In both fronts of this war, the union apparatus stands on the side of the corporations and the ruling class, against the workers.

He concluded:

The Socialist Equality Party campaign is devoted to developing an industrial and political counter-offensive of the working class. We call for the formation of independent rank-and-file committees in every industry, to unite workers throughout the world against the corporations and their servants in the trade union apparatus.
On Friday at 11 p.m., a Muslim student at the University of Texas at Austin along with a companion were reportedly assaulted by three men after leaving a mosque and proceeding on foot to the UT Austin campus approximately a half-mile away. The names of the student and his companion have not been made public to protect their anonymity.

The Student Union at the University of Texas at Austin [Photo by Gusegn / CC BY-SA 3.0

In a press release on Tuesday, the Austin branch of the Muslim civil rights advocacy organization, Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), reported that they had requested Austin police to investigate the alleged attack as a hate crime.

In reporting the incident to CAIR, the UT Austin student stated he was wearing a kurta shalwar, the apparel common to Muslims of South Asian descent, when the student and his companion were accosted by the three men.

The three men reportedly approached the two provocatively, mocking them with vulgar mimicry of Arabic and Islamic phrases, as well as using bigoted epithets toward the Muslim student.

The three men obstructed their path, and punched the student, giving the student cuts and bruises. One man reportedly placed his hand in his pocket, and claimed to have a weapon, and threatened the two.

Austin police confirmed to media that it was aware of the alleged assault and acknowledged that the department is reviewing the attack as a bias-motivated incident. Facilitating that effort, the department has assigned officers with the Hate Crime division to investigate the attack.

If a crime has been committed and the Hate Crime Committee determined that they believe the crime was committed due to bias or prejudice, then they will inform the FBI of the incident, if charges are pressed or an arrest is made, the Hate Crime Committee also informs the prosecutors office, the Austin Police Department said in a statement.

Operations Manager for CAIR Austin, Shaimaa Zayan, said in a statement, No human being should feel unsafe wearing their traditional clothes in public. And when this happens in Austin, a city that cherishes cultural diversity, it is even more traumatizing.

For its part, the university administration told media that it was aware of the incident, and stated, UT remains committed to the safety and well-being of every member of our University community and has no tolerance for violence or other hateful actions against any of our community members, including those in our Muslim, Palestinian, and Arab communities.

The attack follows several similar incidents on or near the UT Austin campus and across the US as government officials and university administrators seek to suppress the eruption of popular opposition to the US-backed Israeli genocide in Gaza, which has manifested in sustained demonstrations attended by millions in the US and around the world for more than six months.

On April 2, CAIR released its 2024 civil rights report: Fatal: The Resurgence of Anti-Muslim Hate, in which the organization describes the worst wave of anti-Muslim bigotry witnessed in its 30-year history.

CAIR reports a 419 percent rise in anti-Muslim incidents occurring across the United States, and states that it has received more than 8,000 complaints, the highest amount in the organizations 30-year history. The current wave dwarfs the amount of complaints CAIR received after the post 9/11 wars against Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as Trumps antidemocratic Muslim ban.

In a few of the more stark examples, on February 4 of this year, 23-year old Palestinian Zacharia Doar and two friends were leaving an anti-genocide protest held on the UT Austin campus, when Doar was stabbed in the chest. 36-year old Bert Baker, who shouted anti-Muslim obscenities at the men has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and carrying out a hate crime.

On October 14, 2023 prosecutors in Illinois charged Joseph Czuba with the stabbing death of 6-year old Palestinian-American Wadea Al-Fayoume and stabbing his mother, Hanaan Shahin, who was severely wounded but survived. During the deranged attack, Czuba shouted anti-Muslim curses at the two.

On November 25, 2023 in Burlington, Vermont, three Palestinian-American students, Hisham Awartani, Kinnan Abdalhamid, and Tahseen Ahmed were shot walking to Awartanis grandmothers home. Although badly wounded, the three survived, with Awartani left paralyzed below the chest. Prosecutors charged Jason J. Eaton, a right-wing self-described libertarian who had espoused anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, in the attack.

The rise in attacks against Muslims goes hand in hand with the anti-democratic campaign conducted by the ruling class against the mass opposition by youth and workers to the genocide in Gaza, which have absurdly been cast as antisemitic.

Over the duration of six months of the bloody campaign against Gaza, millions of university students and workers have expressed popular outrage to the grave crime in demonstrations held around the world.

The wave of anti-Muslim bigotry and violence is intrinsically tied to the barbarous campaign against Gaza conducted by Israel with the full support and collaboration of the Biden Administration.

After decades of decline of American capitalism and global influence, Washington has turned to war and genocide to reassert its supremacy over world affairs.

As the World Socialist Web Site wrote in October after the murder of Wadea Al-Fayoume, [The rise of violence against Muslims] are not just random incidents, but rather the product of a deliberate campaign directed from the highest levels of the national-security apparatus to whip up anti-Muslim bigotry and mobilize it in support of a US military intervention in the Middle East that has no popular support.

After six months of relentless bombardment and murder in Gaza, leading to the mass starvation and spreading of disease among the population, the US and Israel have demonstrated that they are impervious to appeals by the masses to end the war.

What is required to halt the genocide and to defend fundamental civil liberties is a socialist movement of the working class, independent of all the capitalist parties.
When Margaret Thatcher described Tony Blair and New Labour as her greatest achievement, she hadnt been introduced to then Queens Council Sir Keir Starmer. But he and his senior shadow cabinet ministers have spent the last several months returning her compliment, with interest.

In December last year, Starmer praised Thatchers efforts to drag Britain out of its stupor by setting loose our natural entrepreneurialism.

From left, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, former prime ministers Sir Tony Blair and Gordon Brown ahead of the Accession Council ceremony at St James's Palace, London, where King Charles III is formally proclaimed monarch, London, September 10, 2022 [AP Photo/Kirsty O'Connor]

This March, Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy told Politico she was a visionary leader for the UK, adding, You can take issue with Mrs Thatchers prescription, but she had a big manifesto for change and set about a course that lasted for over two decades.

He was defending comments made by Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves during her Mais Lecture, the most prestigious event in Londons banking and finance industry calendar. Reeves drew repeated comparisons between Labours plans for government and the challenges confronted by Thatchers incoming Tory administration in 1979.

Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones threw all caveats to the wind, telling Times Radio, Both Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair delivered that decade of national renewal for our country, in terms of economic growth and wealth creation.

Media commentators have described these comments as headline-grabbing attempts to emphasise the break with Corbyn-era policies and make a play for Conservative voters. This is true. Thatcher is a hate symbol for millions of workers and an idol for the Tory faithful.

But the Labour Party is signalling far more than an unapologetic embrace of right-wing capitalist politics: it is making clear its preparations to wage an unprecedented offensive against the working class.

Given the strong likelihood of this years general election returning a Labour government, workers must be politically prepared for this assault.

Understandably, the first reference point for a Labour governmentafter 14 years of Tory rule and Gordon Browns moribund three-year premiershipwill be that of Tony Blair from 1997-2007. But the reality is that Starmers Labour Party in government will make Blair, the Iraq War criminal and enabler of the filthy rich, look like a left-wing stalwart of a bygone age.

In referencing Thatcher, Starmer, Lammy, Reeves and Jones make clear that 1979 is a far more relevant comparison than 1997. Blair was able to use the fruits of a relative economic upswing to carry out significant social spending increases, softening the blow of privatisations and soaring wealth and incomes among the top 1 percent of the filthy rich. But he also built on the class war agenda pursued relentlessly by his Tory predecessor in the 1980s when confronting a major crisis of British capitalism and imperialism.

Reeves drew the parallels to today in her Mais Lecture speech: As we did at the end of the 1970s, we stand at an inflection point. And as in earlier decades, the solution lies in wide-ranging supply-side reform, to drive investment, remove the barriers constraining our productive capacity, and fashion a new economic settlement, drawing on evolutions in economic thought.

Rachel Reeves speaking at the Mais Lecture [Photo: skjermdump fra Rachel Revees/X]

This would be necessary to tackle Britains problem of political turbulence and recurrent crises at its root, a failure to deliver the supply side reform needed to equip Britain to compete in a fast changing world.

Thatcher is admired in ruling circles and the Labour leadership because she resolved the 1970s-80s era crisis decisively in favour of the capitalist class, confronting head-on the resistance of the working class and paving the way for an explosion of inequality. Draconian laws, the whip of unemployment and militarised, violent policing were used against the 1984-85 miners strike and then the printworkers at Wapping.

Both, like other groups of workers, were defeated due to the treachery of the trade union and Labour Party bureaucracy, which was abandoning its former national reformist programme and openly embracing capitalism.

As the Socialist Equality Party explained:

Under Thatcher, the bourgeoisie sought to arrest the historic decline in Britains global position, destroying manufacturing industry and deregulating the City of London so as to expand its ability to speculate on global markets. While seeking to buy off a section of the middle class with the fruits of the speculative binge, described as popular capitalism, she set out to roll back socialism through union-busting, attacks on the welfare state and an aggressive assertion of imperialist interests. The response of the trade unions and the Labour Party was the emergence of what came to be known as new realisman end to what were derided as out-dated notions of class struggle and workers solidarity, and the embrace of free-market nostrums.

The results were devastating. Inequality saw its sharpest increase of the 20th century as a result, reversing a 65-year fall after 1914, with the Gini coefficient rising more than a third from 0.25 to 0.34, the highest in Europe. The proportion of children in relative poverty more than doubled to over 30 percent. Right to Buy sowed the seeds of todays housing affordability crisis. Major industrial concerns such as Jaguar, Rolls Royce, British Telecom, British Gas, British Petroleum, British Airways, water and electricity companies were privatised.

Thatchers government was no less savage in its defence of British imperialism and the oppression of the working class and rural poor abroad. It continued a brutal counterinsurgency in Northern Ireland, launched a bloody campaign to secure British imperialisms control of the Malvinas/Falklands islands, was among the staunchest allies of Augusto Pinochets dictatorship in Chile, and opposed sanctioning the apartheid South African regime.

This time, Labour will not be in opposition facilitating the attacks of the Tories as in the 1980s and 1990s, nor continuing a Thatcherite agenda under relatively favourable conditions, as did Blair initially.

A Starmer government would take power under conditions of a massive economic crisis for world imperialism that has already required a multi-trillion-dollar bailout in 2008 and then an even larger one during the first stages of the COVID pandemic. The world economy is still on the point of crisis, with the UK especially vulnerable after the undermining of its world position by Brexit.

Most importantly, British imperialism will be called on to pursue the US and NATO powers war against Russia, back Israels genocide in Gaza and escalate towards further military aggression against Iran and China.

Starmers class war agenda would exceed by far that waged by his hero, Thatcher. It would be shock-therapy imposed on a victim already tortured half to death.

Under Thatchers government, corporation tax was between 52 and 35 percent (it is now 25 percent), capital gains tax was between 30 and 40 percent (it is now between 10 and 24 percent), and the top rate of tax was held at 60 percent (it is now 45 percent) until 1989.

The major corporations and super-rich today insist they will pay nothing to preserve even the most essential social services, and Labour has got the message. Reeves has made clear that the Labour leadership dont have any plans to increase taxes, making a specific pledge to a room full of business executives to keep corporation tax to 25 percent or lower.

The Times also reported last July, based on conversations with senior party figures, that A Labour government would follow Conservative tax and public spending policies Senior members of the shadow cabinet expect to have no more money for public services if the party wins the election next year.

Labours fiscal rules commit it to seeing the UKs debt-to-GDP ratio falling in five years timea debt largely run up by the bailout of the banks after the 2008 financial crash and which the last 14 years of austerity have done next to nothing to remedy.

On the war-front, Labour, described by Starmer as the party of NATO, has made clear its total commitment to war in Europe against Russia, in the Middle East against Iran and its allies, and in Asia against China.

Thatchers years in office saw spending on the armed forces move between 4 and 5 percent of GDP; a level which would require a more-than doubling of UK defence spending today, or 46 billion extra a yearroughly half the education budget. That level of military spending is now once again being demanded.

The trade unions will be called upon to demobilise and betray the working class so these attacks can be imposed. But whereas Thatcher relied on the acquiescence of the Trades Union Council (TUC) and its affiliated unions for its victories, Starmers reliance on the trade union bureaucracy will be even more direct.

The decades since the 1980s have seen the trade unions transformed into open appendages of corporate management and the capitalist state, presiding over an endless series of sellouts that have left workers facing a social nightmare. As he made clear in speeches to the TUC and the Confederation of British Industry, Starmer intends to make corporatismplanned tri-partite collusion between the government, the employers and the trade unionsthe basis for his governments assault on the working class.

In return, the trade unions have touted Labour as a progressive alternative to the Tory Party and provided a downpayment on their services with the suppression of the 2022-3 strike wave and refusal to mobilise their members against British complicity in the Gaza genocide.

The Socialist Equality Party will stand candidates in the general election in opposition to all Labour candidates and all campaigns limiting workers to a perspective of pressuring Labour and advancing the Labour lefts led by Jeremy Corbyn and the trade unions as a force for opposing Starmer.

Waging a class and political struggle in the interests of the working class can only proceed in direct conflict with any Starmer-led Labour government and as a political rebellion against the trade union bureaucracy on which it would depend. It means preparing now to end Labours stranglehold over the working class by building the SEP as the revolutionary leadership needed in the fight against austerity and war.
On April 11, the Ukrainian parliament (Rada) passed a new law to expand conscription to the army. It is estimated that at least 400,000 Ukrainians have already been slaughtered in the imperialist proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. After a catastrophically failed counteroffensive last year, the Ukrainian army continues to lose territory to Russia in the Donbass region.

A Ukrainian soldier sits in a trench on the frontline near Bakhmut, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Tuesday, July 4 2023. [AP Photo/Libkos]

Millions of Ukrainians have fled the country, many of them to avoid conscription. Confronting a severe shortage of men at the front, the Ukrainian military has resorted to kidnapping people off the streets, grabbing them at shopping malls and other public places and forcibly drafting them into the army. In his year-end address in December 2023, Zelensky announced a proposal to conscript another 500,000 Ukrainian soldiers at a cost of $13.3 billion.

All men aged 18 to 60 will be required to update their personal information within the next 60 days with the authorities responsible for conscription. This requirement will also go for Ukrainian men living abroad. The new law will make it easier for Ukrainian authorities to issue draft notices, including through an electronic system, and obliges local governments and the police to aid the military in the conscription drive.

The final version of the bill passed does not include a provision for the demobilization of men after three years of service. Since the fall, the wives and families of soldiers who in many cases have been fighting on the front for over two years have been protesting regularly in major Ukrainian cities to demand that their husbands, fathers and brothers be allowed to return home. The move has already provoked a popular backlash on social media, including by soldiers.

The new mobilization law comes just a week after Zelensky signed a bill lowering the age of conscription from 27 to 25. The move was widly unpopular domestically but openly demanded by Kievs imperialist backers. When US Republican Senator Lindsay Graham visited Kiev last month, he ridiculed the Zelensky government for not sending enough of the countrys youth into battle. I cant believe its at 27, he told reporters. Youre in a fight for your life, so you should be servingnot at 25 or 27. We need more people in the line.

On Wednesday, the Ukrainian parliament also endorsed a measure that would permit the mobilization of certain categories of convicts underlining the severe shortage the Ukrainian military is facing. Current inmates would be also be eligible for parole if they agree to join the military, and Ukraine is expected to expand the categories of criminals with more serious offenses that can be mobilized.

As Kiev is in the midst of a new wave of mobilization, it has simultaneously ramped up its provocative strikes on both civilian and energy infrastructures within Russia using drones, missiles and artillery. On Wednesday, the regional governor of the Kursk Oblast in Russia reported that a Ukrainian drone strike had killed a father and his two daughters while driving.

These drone strikes, which are taking place alongside terrorist attacks and incursions of Russian territory, would not be possible without Western technology and funding.

An April 2 report in the Financial Times claimed that US officials had urged Ukraine to hold off on drone strikes on Russian oil refineries over concerns that high oil prices could provoke social unrest in the population. However, on Wednesday, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Celeste Wallander clarified the USs position by stating that the White House clearly has approved the strikes and only subsequently voiced vague concerns to protect itself from backlash from its NATO allies, who had not been included in the decision to increase strikes on Russia proper.

As the Atlantic Council, a think tank with close ties to NATO, recently acknowledged:

Ukraines partners have also backed Kyivs focus on drone warfare. In January 2024, the United Kingdom pledged to spend at least $250 million to rapidly procure, produce, and deliver 1000 one-way attack drones to Ukraine. Although precise details regarding Ukraines drone stockpile remain undisclosed, the rhetoric of Ukrainian senior officials and the ongoing strikes suggest the current bombing campaign inside Russia is likely to continue gaining momentum.

Earlier this week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted in a joint interview with the German news outlet Bild and the American-based Politico that Ukraine would carry out another counteroffensive in the future.

Yes, we have a plan for a counteroffensive. But that also requires weapons. Also from the USA. We will definitely win. We have no alternative. But I cant promise that and give a date, Zelensky stated.

Last June, following months of propaganda regarding an upcoming counteroffensive that would retake lost territory, tens of Ukrainian soldiers were killed after being sent head on into heavily fortified and mined Russian defensive positions. Across the frontlines Ukrainian soldiers died before even breaching the initial line of Russian defenses. Despite the mass casualties, the counteroffensive resulted in minimal territorial gains and exhausted Ukraines and NATOs ammunition stores.

While the full cost in terms of lives may never be acknowledged, according to the Russian military, between early June and late October of last year Ukraine lost roughly 90,000 troops, 600 tanks and 1,900 other armored vehicles.

Meanwhile the Zelensky government continues to absurdly claim it has lost just 31,000 troops in over two years of war but cannot account for 700,000 soldiers apparently missing from its forces.

As usual, Zelensky blamed all military failures on the lack of Western-delivered armaments. Taken in Kharkiv (Kharkov), where Ukraine is busy building new defenses amid an increase in Russian air attacks, the interview was obviously staged to pressure German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to provide Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles, which he has so far ruled out.

Zelensky also used the interview as an opportunity to squash any plans of a potential peace for territory plan that is reportedly favored by Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.

While expressing a willingness to work with Trump, Zelensky made clear the Ukrainian government is not willing to give up any territory lost during the course of the war.

If the deal is that we just give up our territories, and thats the idea behind it, then its a very primitive idea, Zelensky said.

When Trump promised to end the NATO-backed war within 24 hours in March of last year, the Zelensky government responded by inviting Trump to Ukraine to see the war in person.

We expressed our desire for Donald Trump to come to Ukraine so that he could see the situation with his own eyes and draw certain conclusions. I am definitely ready to meet with him, Zelensky said obviously hedging his bets prior to the November elections.

Zelenskys comments follow a recent visit of British Foreign Secretary and former Prime Minister David Cameron to Trumps Florida resort, where he reportedly pleaded with Trump to support the imperialist war effort against Russia.

Within the ruling class and NATO, there is significant worry that Trump as president would abandon the war effort against Russia that was decades in the making, in favor of a focus on a war against China.

Last week in Brussels, NATO Secretary Jens Stoltenberg announced a proposal to set up a $107 billion fund to support the Ukrainian war effort for the next five years. Stoltenberg made clear the funds purpose would be to protect NATOs long-term war plans from any vacillations due to domestic political situations within the 32-member bloc.

We need to shift the dynamics of our support, Stoltenberg said. We must ensure reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine for the long haul ... less on short-term offers and more on multi-year pledges. In the US Congress over $60 billion in aid is currently still being held up.

But whatever conflicts within the ruling class and tensions between the imperialist powers, the new mobilization law and the escalating strikes on Russian territory underscore that a dangerous escalation of the imperialist war against Russia is already underway.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas visit to the US this week marks a major step in Washingtons consolidation of alliances throughout the Indo-Pacific and its accelerating preparations for war with China. This is a component part of a globe-spanning war, stretching from the war against Russia in Ukraine to the Middle East with the genocide in Gaza and plans for war with Iran, and reaching all the way to the Pacific.

President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida review the troops with Col. David Rowland, commander of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, The Old Guard, on the South Lawn of the White House, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Washington. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

At a joint press conference Wednesday, US President Joe Biden formally announced a major expansion of the US-Japan Security Treaty for the first time since it was signed in 1960. Biden declared:

Together, our countries are taking significant steps to strengthen defense and security cooperation. Were modernizing command and control structures, and were increasing the interoperability and planning of our militaries so they can work together in a seamless and effective way.

While the details will be worked out at other meetings behind closed doors, the meaning of Bidens comments is plain. Integrating military forces at the operational level in a seamless and effective way signifies that Japan and the US are readying their militaries for war.

Under the US-Japan Security Treaty, Japan already hosts the largest US military contingent of any country in the world. Some 55,000 American personnel are housed in bases throughout Japan. In addition, the US has established key elements of its anti-ballistic missile system in Japan, which, along with those in South Korea and Alaska, would be essential for waging nuclear war against China.

At the press conference, Biden also announced that the US, Japan and Australia would create a networked system of air, missile, and defense architecture. The AUKUS allies (Australia, the UK and the US) have announced this week that they will seek to incorporate Japan into Pillar II of the pact, for research and development of hi-tech military systems ranging from artificial intelligence and quantum computing to undersea capabilities and hypersonic weapons.

This military integration is accelerating because Japan is essential to US war plans against China. A recent set of Pentagon war games showed that the only scenarios in which China did not defeat US forces in a conventional war over Taiwan were ones in which US forces had Japanese help.

In their haste to prepare for war with China, Biden and Kishida trample legality underfoot. Their actions blatantly violate Article 9 of Japans 1947 constitution, which commits Japanese governments to forever renounce war as a sovereign right of the nation and the threat or use of force as a means of settling international disputes. However, Japan is being integrated into AUKUS, an imperialist military alliance whose only purpose is to prepare for war with China.

This will inevitably provoke deep, historically-rooted mass opposition in China and internationally. Twenty million Chinese died in Japans last war against China, the war of occupation waged from 1937 until the end of World War II in 1945. Japanese war crimes like the 1937 Rape of Nanjing and the 1940 Kill All, Burn All, Loot All extermination campaign in northern China are comparable in scope and cruelty only to Nazi war crimes against the Soviet Union.

Like other Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) prime ministers before him, Kishida has made clear his solidarity with Japanese far-right groups that defend the war crimes against China during World War II. Every year since his election in 2021, Kishida has sent a ritual offering to the infamous Yasukuni Shrine, where 14 Class A Japanese war criminals are buried.

The moves by Washington, London and Canberra to integrate Tokyo into the AUKUS alliance amount to an endorsement of the Japanese governments defense of genocidal violence against China and of the most reactionary political traditions in Japan.

In remarks before a joint session of the US Congress on Thursday, Kishida made clear that the focus of a strengthened US-Japan alliance is not simply regional, but global. Without US support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow? he asked. Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?

He added, The Ukraine of today may be East Asia tomorrow. Japan will continue to stand with Ukraine.

American imperialism sees the war with Russia, which it provoked, as preparatory to a conflict with China. All of this is taking place as the imperialist powers back Israel to the hilt as it carries out genocide in Gaza. As they plotted war with China, Kishida and Biden sang from the same hymnbook at their joint press conference, denouncing Russian aggression and backing Israels right to self-defense as it massacres tens of thousands of Palestinians.

All the major imperialist powers are joining in, hoping for a share of the spoils. Like Washington, Tokyo aims to halt its economic decline, having slipped from the worlds second largest economy to the fourth largest over little more than a decade. Last year, it doubled its military spending. And while the Japanese bourgeoisie pledges its fealty to Washington, the interests of US and Japanese imperialism, which fought each other in World War II, are not identical.

As the imperialist powers plot a vast escalation of the global war, class tensions are exploding, with the ruling classes demanding that workers foot the bill for massive military budgets.

The conditions exist for building an international anti-war movement in the working class, based on the perspective of a socialist struggle to abolish capitalism and its outmoded division of the world into rival nation-states. This is the only viable program on which workers and youth in the United States, Japan, China, Russia and throughout Europe and the world can halt the plunge towards a catastrophic world war.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. The upcoming meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is scheduled for October 7 in Moscow, said Sergei Lebedev, CIS Secretary-General, Trend reports.

He announced this decision at the CIS FMs meeting held today in Minsk, Belarus.

"In a closed-door session, it was agreed to hold the next CFM meeting on October 7, 2024, in Moscow," he stated.

Lebedev highlighted that during the primary discussions among delegation heads, there was a candid exchange of views on pressing international matters and cooperation within the Commonwealth.

Attending today's meeting were heads and representatives from the diplomatic bodies of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
After the federal and state governments lifted all coronavirus protection measures and allowed the virus to run free, proclaiming the myth of the end of the pandemic, they are now moving to criminalise the protective measures taken in the past. This is what is behind the debate about setting up a Commission of Enquiry.

A woman passes a coronavirus test center in Duisburg, Germany, Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2021. [AP Photo/Martin Meissner]

A year ago, representatives of all the parties in the Bundestag (federal parliament) discussed such a commission and were in favour of it. The most recent trigger for the revival of the debate was the complaint by the right-wing conspiracy theorist blog Multipolar, which led to the publication of the protocols on the coronavirus pandemic established by the public health body, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).

It is quite clear that such a commission would not serve the purpose of serious scientific evaluation, but rather the criminalisation of life-saving measures taken in the past. This is made clear by the very fact that the call for such a commission of enquiry comes directly from the repertoire of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which was the first to make this demand. In the meantime, all other parties in the Bundestag have adopted these or similar demands.

The Liberal Democratic Party (FDP) in particular has been vociferously in favour of a commission of enquiry since the publication of the RKI report. Its chairman, Christian Lindner, told the Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger: Today we know that many decisions made by the previous federal government caused great social and economic damage. ... School closures, contact restrictions, curfews and access bans were in some cases completely disproportionate encroachments on civil liberties. A commission of enquiry was the means of choice to analyse these measures.

FDP Secretary General Bijan Djir-Saraj complained that rational criticism had been likened to coronavirus deniers with the demand for relaxation. And FDP Vice Chairman Wolfgang Kubicki, who had previously boasted that he had not adhered to some safety measures, claimed in the jargon of coronavirus deniers that the RKI had probably served as a scientific facade for political decisions.

All the other parties in the Bundestag also support these demands. A year ago, the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) health policy spokesperson Tino Sorge called for a commission of enquiry to systematically analyse the coronavirus policy. Lockdowns, school and daycare centre closures had caused devastating collateral damage. In Saxony-Anhalt, a commission of enquiry has already been set up under CDU Minister President Reiner Haseloff on April 4.

Although the Social Democratic Party (SPD) criticised the specific call for a commission of enquiry, it is in favour of establishing comparable bodies with the same goal, such as the Health and Resilience expert council set up at the Chancellery. The fact that this also pursues the goal of criminalising any protective measures is made clear by the statements of Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD). He explained: The biggest mistake was that we were too strict with children in some cases and probably started easing measures a little too late. A year ago, he described the closure of schools and daycare centres as a mistake.

The BSW (the party founded by former Left Party leader Sahra Wagenknecht) has gone even further in its demands and is calling for an investigating committee. Sahra Wagenknecht told the news agency dpa that a commission of enquiry would not be enough. An investigating committee was necessary to shed light on the period with the greatest restrictions on fundamental rights in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany. Otherwise, only the AfD is calling for an investigating committee.

The Left Partys support for the Commission of Enquiry is particularly cynical. Shortly before its parliamentary group was dissolved, it submitted its own motion in favour of setting up a commission of enquiry. Its health policy spokeswoman Kathrin Vogler justified this by arguing that many measures had had a negative impact on the poorer people in particular. Left Party leader Gregor Gysi cited measures that had led to school cancellations and the isolation of children as examples, as well as the issue of compulsory vaccination. In the past, Vogler herself has described school and nursery closures as incomprehensible.

This argument is as mendacious as it is false. The fact that the school and nursery closures were a physical and psychological burden for children, young people and their families was primarily a result of the fact that they took place without any state support programmes. In addition, it would have been possible to eliminate the virus worldwide in just a few months through the global deployment of all available measures to combat the pandemic.

It is the height of criminality when the same government politicians and parties that rejected this now look back and demonise all lockdown measures. It is a scientifically proven fact that there would have been many times more deaths without the measures taken. For example, a study published in the journal Nature in June 2020 concluded that without the initial lockdown measures in the spring, 3 million more people would have died in Europe alone.

The problem was not the protective measures, but the fact that they were not enforced consistently and were ended prematurely in order to keep the capitalist profit economy going. Those politicians who now cynically cite the welfare of children when arguing against the closure of schools and nurseries also completely ignore the fact that the consequences for children are far more serious if they lose a relative or live in constant fear of losing a relative due to a lack of protective measures.

An international study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, concludes that in the period from March 2020 to October 2021 alone, 2,400 children in Germany lost a parent or guardian. As the total number of deaths at that time was half as high as it is today, it can be assumed that the number of children who had lost one parent caused by the pandemic has also roughly doubled since then. In addition, 126 children and young people have fallen victim to the virus themselves. The number of children and young people who have lost grandparents or other second-degree relatives is not recorded. However, it is clear that this number far exceeds that of direct parents.

The Left Party has played a leading role in the implementation of the murderous profits before lives policy. Wherever it has been a member of a state government, it has sent workers and pupils back to coronavirus-infested companies and schools as quickly as possible. Thuringia in particular, where the Left Party has Bodo Ramelow as state Prime Minister, was notorious for its herd immunity policy and its glorification of the so-called Swedish model.

The Left Party was least concerned with the welfare of the poor. While it exposed workers and young people to a deadly virus and did not provide them with any significant, appreciable aid throughout the pandemic, it rubber-stamped the trillion-euro giveaways to the banks and corporations and combined this with massive social attacks wherever it shared government responsiblity.

In fact, the majority of the now 182,000 coronavirus deaths in Germany come from the working class. Most of them could have been avoided if the virus had been eliminated with a rational and scientifically sound policy. The fact that the ruling class is now moving to criminalise all protective measures makes one thing clear above all else: when the next pandemic hits, it will take no such measures whatsoever and accept significantly more deaths.

It is this murderous profits before lives policy of all the bourgeois parties that needs a thorough reappraisal. To this end, the World Socialist Web Site initiated a Global Workers Inquest in November 2021 with its call For a global investigation into the COVID-19 pandemic by workers. The statement announcing this enquiry, which has since been carried forward by the WSWS, states:

The pandemic is an event of historic magnitude. Its impact on the course of the twenty-first century may well prove to be as far-reaching as that of the two world wars on the twentieth century. Therefore, the origins, causes and consequences of the pandemic must be thoroughly investigated and understood. This disaster was neither an act of God nor the result of a malevolent conspiracy in a Chinese laboratory. The time has come to decisively refute the lies in which the pandemic narrative has been enshrouded by governments and the corporate media. This Inquest is necessary to break through the cover-up, falsifications, and misinformation that have been deployed to justify policies responsible for the avoidable deaths of millions since the initial detection of SARS-CoV-2. The Inquest will gather and make available to the public ample evidence of socially malign and even criminal indifference to human life.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 12. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during negotiations with a number of countries, including China and Turkiye, has called to explain to Iran the importance of refraining from escalating the conflict with Israel, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, Trend reports.

Among the countries with which the United States was in contact, Miller named Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and China. He said that diplomatic cooperation is also ongoing with European countries.

According to him, Washington will continue to try to convey to Tehran that the aggravation of the situation is not in its interests and not in the interests of other countries in the Middle East.
Following her visit to Watches and Wonders, Gisele Bundchen travelled to the German part of Switzerland to explore the engineering of fine watchmaking at IWC Schaffhausens Manufakturzentrum

During her visit, she met the watchmakers of the new Portugieser collection and saw the intricate craftsmanship processes up close.

After visiting IWC at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, supermodel, and IWC Brand Ambassador Gisele made her way to the Swiss luxury watch manufacturers hometown, Schaffhausen. Gisele visited the IWC Manufakturzentrum to experience the fine watchmaking process of the new Portugieser collection, which was unveiled the day before in Geneva. With the new Perpetual Calendars and the Eternal Calendar, the new collection underscores IWCs unique expertise in calendars.

It was fascinating for me to see the level of detail and complex processes that go into making the watches. The Portugieser collection has amazing new colours, and I am impressed by the finishings and visual depth of the coloured dials. They are beautiful and visiting where they are made and seeing the precision of the craftsmanship firsthand has given me a whole new appreciation for my watches. said Gisele.

Gisele Bundchen visits IWC Schaffhausens Manufakturzentrum  IWC Schaffhausen

Gisele wore the new Portugieser Chronograph (ref. IW371624) with a Dune-coloured dial. Paired with a stainless-steel case, gold-plated hands, gold appliques and a black strap, the colour combination reflects the unique atmosphere of early evening with the golden glow of the setting sun. To showcase the colour to its full effect, IWC has created new dials with a captivating visual depth. They are crafted in a complex process comprising 60 individual steps, including applying 15 layers of transparent lacquer, which is fine-ground and then polished to a high-gloss finish. It is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, a robust mechanical chronograph movement in classic column-wheel design.

From component production and case-making to movement assembly, Gisele received the grand tour of the Manufakturzentrum. Opened in 2018, IWC Schaffhausen celebrated its 150th anniversary with the new Manufakturzentrum. True to the IWC spirit, it is an engineered state-of-the-art building with innovative manufacturing methods and technologies.

In 2022, IWC welcomed the Brazilian philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, and supermodel Gisele as a brand ambassador. The relationship was formed in recognition of the remarkable synergy of shared values and ambitions between the two. Throughout her career, she has become one of the most successful and recognisable supermodels in the world. Not only because she has been photographed by some of the most legendary photographers and walked the runways of the biggest fashion houses but also because of her work within sustainability. Gisele has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009. She has also been honoured by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to key environmental issues. In addition, she was recently appointed to the board of the Lotus House  the largest shelter for women and children in the US. Gisele also recently reached a milestone as an author with her second NYT bestseller.
One of the unexpected trends in the streaming media revolution is the surprise surge in viewership for older theatrical releases or TV shows simply because they get added to streaming libraries.

Case in point: Shogun, the FX/Hulu drama about feudal Japan, is the second most-viewed program on the streaming chart in the Samba TV Weekly Wrap Report for the week of March 25 to March 31. Riding a wave of critical praise and word-of-mouth buzz, Shogun has remained in the top three most-watched streaming programs for six consecutive weeks.

What could top that? How about The Little Things, a largely forgotten crime thriller from 2021? Even though it was critically panned upon release, the film was seen in 1.7 million U.S. households in the week after it was added to the Netflix library. Stars like Denzel Washington, Rami Malek, and Jared Leto likely helped, and Black households were especially interested, with that audience over-indexing by 17%.

The Little Things is actually one of three older films that Netflix has on the chart this week. The Accountant, in seventh, was released in 2016 and is enjoying a second consecutive week in the top 10. In ninth is Baby Driver, the 2017 action film. And lets not forget Road House, a 2024 release on Amazon Prime Video thats actually a remake of the 1989 action film. After topping the streaming chart two weeks in a row, it slides to No. 6 this week.

Coming in at No. 3 is a more recent theatrical release, Wish, on Disney+. The 2023 animated film appears to be gaining new life on streaming, similar to other Disney releases like Elemental and The Little Mermaid.

The rest of the Top 10 belongs to Netflix. The pricey sci-fi mindtrip 3 Body Problem is No. 4 this week, continuing a strong showing on the charts. Files of the Unexplained, an Unsolved Mysteries-style docuseries, is No. 5. The action series The Gentlemen sticks around on the chart for the fifth-consecutive week, coming in at No. 8, while Testament: The Story of Moses, rides some post-Easter viewership to No. 10.

On the linear side of things, award shows continue to draw strong viewership. This week, the CMT Music Awards earned the top spot following a Sunday night broadcast on CBS, continuing a trend we saw throughout the TV and film awards season at the start of 2024.

Its familiar territory from there on. Two episodes of American Idol come in at No. 2 and No. 3. Idols primary competitor, The Voice, is No. 7 this week, something of a surprise for a program that regularly tops the chart.

FBI on CBS is No. 4 this week, leading a trio of scripted procedurals. NBCs Chicago Med and Chicago Fire are the other two, coming in at No. 6 and No. 8, respectively.

Rounding out the Top 10 are two pillars of American TV: Americas Funniest Home Videos, in its 34th season, comes in fifth while Wheel of Fortune, in its 41st season, claims No. 9 and 10.

Cole Strain is VP and Head of R&D at Samba TV, a WrapPRO partner. Click here for more data and analysis from Samba TV.

The Wrap Report provides an exclusive first look at the most watched movies and TV series from the past week across both streaming and linear television sourced from viewership trends collected from Samba TVs panel of more than 3 million households, balanced to the U.S. Census.

The post 2021 Thriller The Little Things Surges to No. 1 on Streaming Top 10 After Netflix Debut | Charts appeared first on TheWrap.
'American Pickers' will return to Missouri. Here's how to try to get on the show

From left to right, Jersey Jon, Robbie Wolfe, Danielle Colby and Mike Wolfe are the latest hosts of "American Pickers," a documentary series on The History Channel. "American Pickers" is visiting Missouri in June 2024.

"American Pickers" is returning to Missouri and the antique-hunting television hosts are on the lookout for rare items and unforgettable characters.

Aired on The History Channel, "American Pickers" is a documentary series that follows Mike Wolfe, Danielle Colby, Robbie Wolfe and Jersey Jon, "picking" through valuable antiques across the country. The 25-season series has been on air since 2010.

The production of "American Pickers" is visiting Missouri in June and is looking for collectors who are interested in being featured on the show. To inquire, collectors should contact the production team by phone at 646-493-2184 or by email at AmericanPickers@cineflix.com. Collectors should be prepared to share their full name, city and state, contact information and a brief description of their collection. Only private collections will be considered for the series, not stores, malls, flea markets, museums, auctions or other businesses open to the public.

The History Channel's "American Pickers" is visiting Missouri in June 2024. The documentary series is seeking Missouri-based collectors who are interested in being featured on the show.

What happened to Frank Fritz?

For long-time audiences of "American Pickers," it may come as a surprise that co-host Frank Fritz is no longer a part of the series. In July 2022, Fritz suffered a stroke and was temporarily placed under guardianship, according to the Des Moines Register.

In November 2023, the Register published a story about Fritz's first public appearance since his stroke, enjoying a meal at a pub with friends in the Illinois Quad Cities. There has been no mention of a potential return to the series for Fritz.

Greta Cross is the trending topics reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretacrossphoto. Story idea? Email her at gcross@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: 'American Pickers' to visit Missouri collectors in June
The former president of the International Biathlon Union (IBU), Anders Besseberg, has been found guilty in a corruption case. The 78-year-old Norwegian official was sentenced to three years and one month in prison for abuses during his tenure as head of the organization.

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The relevant decision was made by the Buskerud District Court in Hokksund, vg.no reports. Bessberg was found to have received an expensive watch from Russian officials who organized exclusive hunting trips to Russia, the Czech Republic, and Austria. Russian officials also paid for the Norwegian's prostitution services.

"In light of some documents, as well as the testimony of witnesses, the court does not doubt that he acted in favor of Russia both in word and deed," the court said in its verdict.

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Besseberg himself denies any accusations and intends to appeal the decision. He had been IBU president for 25 years when he was forced to resign in 2018.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Bad Bunny dropped a federal suit Thursday he had filed against a man accused of uploading bootlegged videos from his Salt Lake show.. Here, he arrives at the Latin Grammy Awards on Nov. 15, 2018, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. | Eric Jamison/Invision, AP

SAN FRANCISCO  A little over a month after suing a Spanish bootlegger accused of uploading 10 videos of Bad Bunny to YouTube from his Salt Lake City show, the reggaeton performer has dropped the suit.

Benito Antonio Martinez, Bad Bunny's real name, dropped the suit he had filed against Eric Guillermo Madronal Garrone of Madrid, Spain, on Thursday. The Puerto Rican performer had filed the original lawsuit in U.S. District Court in San Francisco on March 8.

The two-page filing noted that "the infringing videos" had been removed from YouTube and that "plaintiff understands that the videos will not be reinstated." Bad Bunny, though, dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning he could refile.

"Plaintiff reserves the right to refile this action if any one or more of the infringing videos are reinstated or otherwise reuploaded online in any capacity (including but not limited to YouTube, online websites, social media, etc.)," Thursday's court filing reads.

Bad Bunny kicked off his "Most Wanted Tour" at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Feb. 21. In the suit in March, he charged that Madronal had subsequently posted videos of 10 songs from the Utah show and accused the Spanish man of copyright infringement and violating U.S. bootlegging statutes. The videos, the artist said, would lure YouTube viewers away from Bad Bunny's official YouTube page, impacting his ability to generate ad revenue.

Bad Bunny had sought damages of $150,000 per video, or $1.5 million, or Madronal's YouTube profits from his postings.

Madronal, who never formally responded to the suit, had initially defended his actions, describing himself as a cultural news gatherer who engaged in disseminating musical culture via his YouTube page. YouTube, nevertheless, removed the videos after Bad Bunny and his legal team sent the California company a takedown notice. Madronal challenged YouTubes decision, leading to the lawsuit.
Saoirse Ronans 11 Best Performances: From Lady Bird to Brooklyn

Saoirse Ronan is here to stay.

More from Variety

Surprisingly born in the Bronx before making Ireland her home, Ronan has proven to be a powerhouse of talent and one of the most influential actors of her generation. Since her screen debut at the age of 9 in the 2003 medical drama The Clinic, Ronan has displayed remarkable versatility and depth. From her portrayal as the wide-eyed Briony in Atonement to her titular role in Lady Bird, Ronan has enriched the cinematic landscape. In celebration of her birthday, Variety ranks her top 11 film performances.

Ronans career, often compared to the likes of Kate Winslet and Cate Blanchett for its variety of roles and accolades, has reaped a slew of critical and industry prizes. Her breakout role as the curious and precocious teenager Briony in Joe Wrights Atonement not only captured hearts but also garnered the film seven Oscar nominations, earning Ronan her first nomination for supporting actress at just 13.

Read: Early 2025 Oscars Predictions in every category on Varietys Awards Circuit.

Unlike many child actors who vanish after early success, Ronan was just getting started. By the age of 25, she had earned four Oscar nominations, including Best Actress nods for her roles in Brooklyn (2015), Lady Bird (2017), and Little Women (2019). She is the second youngest actor to achieve this feat, trailing only behind Jennifer Lawrence.

Looking forward, Ronan continues to expand her horizon with Arcade Pictures, a production company she co-founded with her husband, Jack Lowden, and producer Dominic Norris. Their latest project, The Outrun  a Sundance hit drama set for release later this year  has already generated Oscar buzz for Ronans portrayal of a woman battling alcoholism. Additionally, Ronan is set to star in Steve McQueens World War II epic Blitz from Apple Original Films and the comedy Bad Apples, currently in production.

Read Varietys list of Ronans best performances below.

Honorable mentions: The Way Back (2010); Byzantium (2012); The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014);

11. See How They Run (2022)

11. See How They Run (2022)





In Tom Georges mystery comedy, Ronan plays Constable Stalker, an energetic and eager-to-please officer assigned to assist the alcoholic inspector Stoppard (Sam Rockwell) in trying to solve the murder of a sleazy American director.

While the Agatha Christie references dont do the film any favors, Ronan makes her sweet and intelligent Constable her own, garnering plenty of chuckles and keeping the film intact for an enjoyable British ride.

10. Ammonite (2020)

10. Ammonite (2020)





From writer-director Francis Lee, Ammonite takes place in 1840s England, where acclaimed but overlooked fossil hunter Mary Anning (Kate Winslet) works alone under brutal conditions on the southern coastline. When Charlotte (Ronan), the wife of a tourist, arrives, the two women develop a passionate love affair that defies the social bounds of their time.

Admittedly, the script doesnt develop Ronans character to its full realization, leaving the audience wanting more. Nonetheless, she elevates Charlottes seemingly one-note, melancholy demeanor, but the film struggles to give any more knowledge of her besides what Ronan can convey. As always, she gives it her all.

9. How I Live Now (2013)

9. How I Live Now (2013)





While director Kevin Macdonalds films are a mixed bag, this adaptation of the Meg Rosoff novel finds Ronan in impeccable form as Daisy, an teenager sent to the English countryside for the summer as she finds love while fighting for survival as a war takes over the world around her. The post-apocalyptic drama is more timely than wed like to admit, but more importantly, it sees Ronans ability to embody and channel any character, no matter how unfamiliar it may seem.

8. Violet & Daisy (2011)

In this offbeat crime dramedy, Ronan plays Daisy, one half of a teenage assassin duo in Precious scribe Geoffrey Fletchers directorial debut. Alongside Alexel Bledel and James Gandolfini, her ability to mix the surface innocence with the inner evil gives this panned, quirky endeavor a sense of identity.

7. Hanna (2011)

7. Hanna (2011)





Ronan can do anything, even action films.

As a young girl raised in the wilderness to become the perfect assassin, Ronans intense and jarring physical transformation in Joe Wrights film is visually impressive. However, her ability to convey the emotional isolation the titular character feels makes Hanna entertaining and stirring.

6. Little Women (2019)

6. Little Women (2019)





As Jo March in Greta Gerwigs latest adaptation of the acclaimed novel, Ronan embodies the spirited, headstrong literary protagonist with a modern twist. Teaming back up with the likes of Timothee Chalamet, her dynamic portrayal captures Jos fiery independence and vulnerabilities, equally matched to Winona Ryders Oscar-nominated turn from 1994. She made an old character feel new and relevant again. Ronan earned an Oscar nom for best actress, in addition to co-star Florence Pugh in supporting.

5. Mary Queen of Scots (2018)

5. Mary Queen of Scots (2018)





Ronans work as the titular character in Josie Rourkes invigorating period drama is undeniably her most underappreciated. Opposite Margot Robbie, Ronans Mary Stuart, who battles with her cousin for the throne shes the rightful heir to, is commanding and underscored by the quest for power and an impending tragic destiny.

4. The Lovely Bones (2009)

4. The Lovely Bones (2009)





The Lovely Bones is a book that has deeply resonated with me, and like many other cinephiles, I was profoundly disappointed with Peter Jacksons CGI-heavy adaptation. However, the character of Susie Salmon was a shining light in an otherwise lackluster film. Saoirse Ronans exceptional portrayal, which managed to show Susie as more than just a victim, was a testament to her immense talent and dedication.

As a girl in the in-between after her murder, her touching and ethereal turn is the best element of the film, despite its sole nom for supporting actor Stanley Tucci.

3. Atonement (2007)

3. Atonement (2007)





At the age of 13, Ronan plays the young Briony Tallis in the adaptation of Ian McEwans WWII-set novel, delivering a performance thats both haunting and profoundly impactful, conveying an emotional maturity far beyond her years. Her complex depiction of Brionys transition from naive child to remorseful adult set the stage for her career and the ultimate success of the character, capturing the destructive power of a misunderstood child with chilling accuracy.

2. Lady Bird (2017)

2. Lady Bird (2017)





Who knew Ronan could be so funny as she brilliantly captures the essence of being on the brink of adulthood as a teen early-2000s Sacramento, Calif. Her portrayal of Christine Lady Bird McPherson in Greta Gerwigs second film is filled with all the contradictions typical of adolescence  she is confident and insecure, determined and confused. Embodying these dichotomies with naturalism sans the cliches allows the audience to see their teenage experiences, even if they werent young girls.

Her Golden Globe win for lead actress (comedy) was more than deserved.

1. Brooklyn (2015)

1. Brooklyn (2015)





Bringing to life the character of Eilis Lacey, a woman caught in a romantic dilemma, Ronan packs a resonant depth that speaks volumes about her acting capabilities. Handling the cultural aspects of Eiliss character with integrity, she portrays an Irish immigrant to New York during the 1950s with deep understanding and sensitivity. Landing her second Oscar nom and her first as a leading actress, she narrowly lost the prize to Brie Larson for Room.

Best of Variety
(Left to right) Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura and Cailee Spaeny portray war photojournalists in director Alex Garland's ill-conceived new film. Murray Close

You know how sometimes when theres been such a wide spectrum of passionate, well-argued reactions to a film that you begin to think that it might actually be superb since its already ignited such a fascinating and polarizing debate? Well, Civil War proves that theory wrong.

The chatter around director Alex Garlands film began last December when its trailer debuted. It includes a few recognizable hot buttons: the White House in peril, an undesired president, journalists under threat, a white supremacist wielding an assault rifle, overzealous armed forces, a blissfully ignorant white woman actively trying to stay out of it all.

God bless America, the president (Nick Offerman) says in the two-and-half-minute teaser. Another historically loaded statement that reeks of weaponized patriotism and Christianity.

It was the exact combination of images to provoke an already intensified audience  particularly on social media, where whole arguments are sometimes erected based merely on a seven-word post. The understanding was that Civil War was about to be released during a very important election year (reciting a common sentiment there, but when isnt it important?).

A disgraced Donald Trump is still in the running for U.S. presidency. Multiple warsare happening across the world, including in countries where journalists are killed in their pursuit of the truth. Misinformation and ongoing attacks on journalism are also routine right here in America, where white supremacists are empowered and culture wars on- and offline persist.

Civil War, from a director whose fans believe thoughtfully confronts issues like misogyny and artificial intelligence in films including Men and Ex Machina (both of which are deeply flawed, by the way), was assumed to be provoking vital conversations around American dissension.

Nick Offerman stars as a disgraced U.S. president who's turned against his citizens  for unexplained reasons  in "Civil War." Murray Close

But all it actually does is kick up a lot of dust around controversial topics without actually examining or even adequately portraying any of them. The film, from Garlands own script, centers on war photojournalists capturing dangerous unrest across the nation as they drive from New York to Washington, D.C., where there are plans to attack  or maybe kill  the president.

What exactly is the source of the presidents issue here? Civil War doesnt really care to specify. It instead presents us with a vaguely villainous archetype in the form of a white man in power whos turned against his own citizens for some unexplained reason. The idea, presumably, is that audiences will just fill in the blanks on their own if given enough triggers.

Offermans character doesnt even have a name. Hes just referred to as President in the credits, because apparently that position alone should be enough to spark some kind of fervor among audiences. Like, take it from there, folks.

Much of Civil War is like that. Everything about it feels so remarkably undeveloped. That includes its main protagonists, the people meant to ground and humanize the movie. But theyre so thinly, and at times preposterously, drawn that you instantly begin looking elsewhere in the film for a pulse.

Kirsten Dunst plays Lee Miller, a jaded longtime journalist now desensitized to graphic symbols of war. In an early scene, she robotically snaps away at her camera as civilians are executed in the street.

Its there that Lee meets Jessie (Cailee Spaeny), a cherubic journalist flailing amid the chaos, and offers her a hand. Lees stoicism and Jessies naivete should have marked the beginning and end of their relationship  and to be fair, Lee writes the moment off too  but Civil War insists on trying to build unearned emotion for two different yet equally uninteresting characters.

The mounting emotion surrounding the relationship between Spaeny's and Dunst's characters is entirely unearned in the film. Courtesy of A24

Despite proving no such savvy before, Jessie finagles her way onto the journalist road trip alongside Lees partner Joel (Wagner Moura), as does veteran journalist Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson). With this ragtag group now assembled, the film moves along to a hodgepodge of violent, racist  or, at the very least, tremulous  scenes across America.

That narrative progression is effective in some regard. Theres mounting suspense as the characters sometimes contend with rooftop snipers, obtuse store clerks or gun-happy racists who get their rocks off by murdering undesired Americans on sight (Jesse Plemons breathes some much-needed tension into the film here). Youre never sure whether theyll make it to D.C.

Or even what theyre expecting to actually happen once they do arrive at the capital. A citizens uprising, maybe  but for what reason? And what side of what war is everyone even on? What are they fighting about? Again, we get no answers.

Any journalist worth their salt always has at least some inkling of the point of a story before they actually descend into it. This group just seems to be bumbling alongside armed forces capturing still shots of everything they see, from fresh corpses to angry people in military uniforms (its hard to tell whether theyre citizens or officers), with no discernible purpose each time.

Not even the storys consistent need to remind us that they must take the shot and just keep moving validates this level of journalistic sloppiness. Journalism here is so tedious that when Joel tries to appeal to a man in camouflage obligatorily shooting at a sniper by telling him that hes press, the man just says something like, yeah, I got that from the word Press on your car.

Even reading that scene as an indicator of how meaningless people find journalism, which is a legit problem, doesnt work. Because journalism doesnt mean much to the journalists in the movie either.

Despite the filmmaker's impetus to celebrate the work of journalists, "Civil War" neither understands journalists or journalism. Murray Close

Thats a fundamental misunderstanding of its function inside a film that not only centralizes journalists but also aims to glorify them. Or so thats what Garland has explained. I think serious journalism needs protecting, because its under attack, the filmmaker told The Guardian, so I wanted to make those people heroes to put them front and centre.

But theyve got no real importance, and that issue is especially exacerbated in a movie where all characters  both minor and major  are flattened as equally frivolous and volatile participants in this political ire.

Garland seems to understand that there is a certain level of objectivity that should always be required in journalism, which could complicate the argument against that flattening a bit. One of the things I tried to do was show journalists as reporters, intentionally keeping bias out of their reporting, he told the Los Angeles Times.

But both the journalists and journalism are inept here. How does that make them heroes?

The director added that the journalists job is to make other people ask questions  and that Civil War is acting as that reporter, provoking questions from the audience. But those questions shouldnt include: What is this film actually about? It doesnt encourage sharper questions than that. Thats not a sign of provocation; its a sign that its not a smart movie.

Its interesting to see Civil War categorized as an action film on its IMDb page. While there are many complex action films that contain a lot more than explosions and chase scenes, Garlands film really is just the type of offering in which big, loud things just happen. Then it ends.

With "Civil War," Garland aims to amplify objectivity in journalism through characters that are thinly drawn and lack any clear motivation or skill. Murray Close

Many moments in Civil War are flimsily designed to stir audiences with images of violent conflict, like a White House massacre, interwoven with increasingly contrived human conflict like Lees emotional decline and Jessies random act of precision during the films climactic combat.

While the violence in the movie is both shot and portrayed in a way that does lend itself to the nonsensical nature of war, the human conflict is less convincing in a story that spans just a matter of days. Why would Lee begin to suddenly feel like maybe photographing America in flames isnt actively confronting the real problem  whatever that is here?

How does Jessie, who in the short time they know her makes a handful of terrible choices that, at the bare minimum, risks her fellow journalists lives, suddenly find the bravery to stand in the line of fire to snap a pivotal shot? And why would Lee be so painfully protective of Jessie, a person she merely tolerates and for whom shes exhibited little patience?

Thats a foolish penultimate storyline as Civil War barrels toward a self-satisfying and even goofier conclusion.

Do the journalists actually win in this story? No, but also, win what? A clearer question is: Does the audience win? Thats a resounding no.

Garland aims to encourage necessary conversation among audiences with a film that only incites that by using recognizable triggers like racist figures, rampant gunfire and devolved politics. While it has indeed sparked myriad discussions, none of it amounts to a good film. Courtesy of A24

The film drops us inside a deeply divided America by utilizing myriad political trigger points that act only to garner a flurry of ardent responses from audiences and that only tangentially relate to what happens in the plot.

Maybe, as Garland suggested following the films SXSW premiere last month, that is a result of our own polarization and refusal to engage critically with each other. Thats a very real thing we dont talk enough about.

Many of the discussions around the film, including interviews with Garland, have been refreshing and necessary. As a Londoner, he clearly has been thinking a lot about the dire state of affairs in America that needs untangling, though with little attention paid to the source of that dissent that is woefully evident with Civil War.

None of that marginally deep consideration or even the messages viewers have projected onto the film negates that it lacks actual merit of its own.

Why are we talking and not listening? Garland asked at SXSW. In the case of his actual film, though, its because it says a whole lot of nothing.

Civil War hits theaters Friday.
With Civil War, Alex Garland made a film intended to provoke audiences into thinking about the state of the country. So naturally, Im terrified.

Thinking, Ive come to learnespecially when it comes to politically charged moviestends to metastasize in todays culture into getting angry, baselessly ranting, or, the most dreaded phrase on the internet, igniting discourse. Its not that I fear debate or passionate difference of opinion. Thats the whole point of cultural consumption and certainly of criticism; disagreement should be a beautiful, natural byproduct of watching a film and discussing it with fellow enthusiasts. Mass agreement wouldnt just be impossible, it would be incredibly boring too.

The issue is that discord in the year 2024, perhaps fitting for this particular movie, more resembles respective sides tossing grenades at each other rather than actually engaging with any cogent points or arguments. What I fearand am preparing to be exasperated by when it comes to Civil Waris the bad-faith pontificating that has replaced thoughtful discussion.

There will be pundits condemning and dismissing the film because of how they interpret the politics. People on social media will post typically extremist reactions to it, whether or not theyve seen the film (which, as Garland told my colleague Nick Schager, theyve already done). And, the critical evolution that I most detest, the I am right and you are wrong, and I will not entertain any nuance in the middle crowd, will bully their opinions of the film, good or bad, with fingers in the ears refusing to hear, let alone acknowledge, any other side. (Beware of any post that begins, I dont see how anyone can think)

Kirsten Dunst A24

More than any recent film, Civil War, which is now in theaters, is fodder for these reactions.

The film takes place in the near future at the climax of a second American civil war. Polarization has already sent the country into violent ruin. An us vs. them mentality has left major cities as hotbeds of bombings and sniper warfare, while the roads and towns between them are dotted with bodies swinging from overpasses and mass graves. The president (Nick Offerman) is essentially a despot in his third term who has disbanded the FBI and orders that journalists at the White House be shot on sight.

The Western Forces alliance of California and Texas is gaining traction in its effort to seize the capital and assassinate the president, with the major battleground taking place in Charlottesville, Virginiaconspicuously where 2017s deadly white supremacist rally took place. Kirsten Dunst and Wagner Moura play war reportersshes a famed photographerwho journey to D.C. to capture the melee. With each stop on the way, they bear witness to war-ravaged atrocities and extremism-pilled citizens, wondering what is the point of their career in journalism if their images and stories from decades of global strife did nothing to curb what is happening in their own country.

Alex Garlands Civil War Is an Explosive Warning Against a Trump Takeover

Garland, who wrote and directed Civil War, doesnt poison the film with think-piece exposition, presumably not to sacrifice the project to immediate evisceration from one political party. The ideologies of the respective sides are never elucidated, and the California-Texas alliance makes it so an audience member cant presume whether the Western Forces are the good guys or the bad guys based on easily classifiable ideologies. But the film isnt apolitical by any means.

You dont need to know what the political motivations of either side were prior to this civil war to know that the devastation is a byproduct of a hauntingly recognizable extremism. As the journalists road-trip to D.C., you are immersed inside the violence they experience. Its not B-roll on the news. It is visceral. And a president who, somehow, amends the Constitution to make way for a third term, sows division in the country, and gets rid of the federal organization that serves as his check and balance Who could that possibly remind anyone of?

Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, and Cailee Spaeny A24

Ive talked to several people and read some responses to early screenings of the film that have called it apolitical because the ideologies and the plots parallels to todays climate arent made explicit. At a post-screening Q&A I attended, Garland expressed his confusion and frustration over that argument. Based on the plot description alone, how could you not think the film is political? He began writing it in 2020, during the period of disturbing division and unrest in this country, and observed as that continued up until its release today; early drafts of the script proved prescient as the Jan. 6 insurrection unfolded.

Obviously, then, Civil War is meant to provoke conversation, specifically surrounding the current, combustible state of our country. But Im nervous that, instead, the tendencies toward histrionic debate will dismantle that conversation.

Civil War Director Alex Garland Isnt Shocked by the Discourse

I can imagine the Fox News segments about it. Trumps team is probably already drafting some Truth Social manifesto about it. (Hed done a similar thing prior to the release of 2020s The Hunt, which Civil War has been compared to, after all.) What will social media be like after its release? As Vice reported in December, the trailer alone sparked conspiracy theorists to call the film an example of predictive programming, which, they argued, is shadowy deep state elites using their control of the media to prepare the population for an actual civil war.

Chill, normal stuff.

A scene from Civil War A24

Listen, Im not always coherent and definitely dont presume to be correct all the time in my opinions. I accidentally caught a glimpse of the eclipse before putting my special glasses on, and have been convinced that my brain has been partially fried since. (At least, thats what I told myself when I accidentally poured Worcestershire instead of soy sauce on my dumplings earlier this week.) Maybe my thoughts are not reliable at the moment.

Still, I loved Civil War and found it to be a profound, unshakable warning about what may even be an inevitability, if the country continues like this. And Ive talked to folks who disagree. Their opinions are interesting. Is either one of us right? Whos to say.

It would be fascinating and of such a cultural benefit if there could be conversation about this film that was considered and cordialyou could say civil, even. But cynicism takes over; Im bracing myself for when the discourse in the coming weeks most certainly is none of those things.

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Google, the search giant that brought in more than $73 billion in profit last year, is protesting a California bill that would require it and other platforms to pay media outlets. The company announced that it was beginning a short-term test that will block links to local California news sources for a small percentage of users in the state.

The move is in response to the California Journalism Preservation Act, a bill that would require Google, Meta and other platforms to pay California publishers fees in exchange for links. The proposed law, which passed the state Assembly last year, amounts to a link tax, according to Google VP of News Partnerships Jaffer Zaidi.

If passed, CJPA may result in significant changes to the services we can offer Californians and the traffic we can provide to California publishers, Zaidi writes. But though the bill has yet to become law, Google is opting to give publishers and users in California a taste of what those changes could look like.

The company says it will temporarily test blocking links to California news sources that would be covered under the law in order to measure the impact of the legislation on our product experience. Zaidi didnt say how large the test would be or how long it would last. Google is also halting new spending on California newsrooms, including new partnerships through Google News Showcase, our product and licensing program for news organizations, and planned expansions of the Google News Initiative.

Google isnt the first company to use hardball tactics in the face of new laws that aim to force tech companies to pay for journalism. Meta pulled news from Facebook and Instagram in Canada after a similar law passed and has threatened to do the same in California. (Meta did eventually cut deals to pay publishers in Australia after a 2021 law went into effect, but said last month it would end those partnerships.)

Google has a mixed track record on the issue, It pulled its News service out of Spain for seven years in protest of local copyright laws that would have required licensing fees. But the company signed deals worth about $150 million to pay Australian publishers. It also eventually backed off threats to pull news from search results in Canada, and forked over about $74 million. That may sound like a lot, but those amounts are still just a tiny fraction of the $10 - $12 billion that researchers estimate Google should be paying publishers.
While filming Eli Roths Borderlands, Ariana Greenblatt missed a special milestone  until the cast and crew created one instead

Mindy Small/FilmMagic; Arturo Holmes/Getty (Left-right:) Ariana Greenblatt on April 11; Jamie Lee Curtis on March 10

Ariana Greenblatt is remembering a very special milestone from the set of her movie Borderlands.

The action-packed sci-fi comedy from director Eli Roth stars Greenblatt, 16, as a wild pre-teen demolitionist named Tiny Tina  one of the video game-turned-movies extraterrestrial outlaws and outcasts, alongside Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, Jamie Lee Curtis and Jack Black.

At Las Vegas CinemaCon, where she was receiving the Rising Star of 2024 Award on April 11, Greenblatt told PEOPLE about her favorite memory from filming Borderlands in Budapest, Hungary.

Related: Everything to Know About Borderlands

I graduated middle school from that set, the Barbie star recalls. And I was feeling down in the dumps because all my friends had their graduation together Like, Damn, I missed my graduation. 



But Curtis, Roth, the rest of the Borderlands crew and, it turns out, Greenblatts mother, had a plan.

Courtesy of Lionsgate (Left-right:) Cate Blanchett, Ariana Greenblatt, Kevin Hart, Florian Munteanu and Jamie Lee Curtis in "Borderlands"

One day Greenblatts on-set teacher, she says, put a cap and gown on me and my cap had Tina's bunny ears on it. The movies props team super-glued bunny ears on my cap, the cutest thing ever.

Then, she says, I hear the graduation music play in the massive sound stage and I see the entire crew, the entire cast, every extra on set.

A mock-graduation followed, with Greenblatts fellow cast members and crew passing around a microphone to honor her. They talked about my straight A's. They had stories. They made a speech for me, she remembers with a smile.

I got a diploma, a Borderlands diploma! They had, like, a kill count on it. It was the craziest experience and it was such a shock and such a surprise. I'll never forget it  my middle school graduation on the set of Borderlands.

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.

Curtis, 65, absolutely helped spearhead the show, adds Greenblatt. Eli, my mom, Jamie. They all had a thing to do.

That included Borderlands stunt professionals. Literally Cate's stunt double came from the sky on wire. They were doing stunts. It was the craziest thing you could think of, she says. I'll never forget it.

Blanchett, 54, leads Borderlands as an infamous outlaw named Lilith, teaming up with a motley crew that includes former soldier Roland (Hart), scientist Tannis (Curtis), Tiny Tina, her bodyguard Krieg (Florian Munteanu) and feisty robot Claptrap (Black).

The fate of the universe could be in their hands  but theyll be fighting for something more: each other, reads a synopsis.

Brenton Ho/Variety via Getty Ariana Greenblatt at the CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards April 11

Greenblatt joined Roth, 51, onstage at CinemaCon during distributor Lionsgates April 10 presentation of upcoming titles. Ive never been happier on a set than I was with Borderlands, she told the crowd. I have a great support system around me and thats the key to staying sane, so I can play insane characters.

Speaking to PEOPLE, the Ahsoka star says its her brother and parents who keep me grounded, of course. My friends  I went to a normal high school, so they humble me as you wouldnt believe. They got my back for sure.



She adds, I don't want to get in my head about anything, ever. Playing insane characters is so fun because you get to let out every emotion you've ever felt into one character. Its super freeing.

Borderlands is in theaters Aug. 9.



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Lady Bunny Wants New Show To Send Viewers To The Ballot Box 'With A Giggle'

As she prepares to unveil a brand-new nightclub show, Lady Bunny cant resist having a little fun at fellow drag icon Trixie Mattels expense.

HuffPost caught a sneak peek at Lady Bunnys April Fool with a snippet of her parody version of Lizzos Good as Hell, in which she playfully accuses Mattel, a RuPauls Drag Race veteran, of being a Lady Bunny lookalike who charges more.

Cmon, lets keep it real/ Mama Ru taught you how to steal, she sings on the track.

Fortunately, Mattel seems to be taking such zingers in stride.

Trixie messaged me with laughing emojis when I tagged her in my parody video on Instagram  she has a great sense of humor, Lady Bunny told HuffPost. She even said on a recent podcast that she does Lady Bunny cosplay.

Listen to a clip from Lady Bunnys Good as Hell parody below.

The Good as Hell spoof is just one of many highlights in April Fool, which debuts Friday at New Yorks Green Room 42 and returns for three additional performances through April 24. Also parodied in the show are hits by Dua Lipa, Bruno Mars and Nicki Minaj.

Meanwhile, a country medley that begins with Beyonces Texas Hold Em and incorporates Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton and Shania Twain classics is sure to be a comedic standout.

These days, shes been feeling especially disenchanted with the U.S. political climate. Though April Fool will contain some topical jokes, its star says it takes a lighthearted approach to anything related to the 2024 presidential election.

While I love that many of my friends have found success reading stories to kids, Im just not that queen, Lady Bunny said. Astrida Valigorsky via Getty Images

I save my diatribes for X and Instagram posts, she said. But I do have a mock patriotic number with flags and confetti to send audiences to the polls in November with a giggle.

April Fool marks the start of a busy period for Lady Bunny, who has LGBTQ+ Pride-related performances lined up in Seattle and Denver, as well as in Europe, through the end of the summer.

And as always, those who may be easily offended by her raunchy humor should stay home.

While I love that many of my friends have found success reading stories to kids, she told HuffPost in 2020, Im just not that queen.

Related...
Lainey Wilson On Drawing Career Inspiration From Reba McEntire: Shes Not Scared To Do All Of It

Its been a banner year for Lainey Wilson, but the Louisiana native is only just getting started.

After more than a decade spent trying to break into the county music industry, Wilsons career finally took off in 2022. In the two years since, she won her first Grammy, nabbed a role on Yellowstone, and was named CMA Entertainer of the Year.

Speaking with Audacys Rob + Holly at Tortuga Music Festival last week, the 31 year old reflected on her recent successes and how she finds career inspiration in the decades-long reign of the Queen of Country, Reba McEntire.

Its so crazy because it seems like all kinds of blessings have all come at once. Like, yall know Ive been in Nashville for 13 years, but I feel like my dreams keep kind of adding on," Wilson said. "Like, I have dreams now that I didnt even know that I had."



When it comes to the acting stuff, I want to dabble in that a little bit more," she added. "Theres so much that I want to do.

Yellowstone showrunner Taylor Sheridan famously wrote the character of Abby, an aspiring country music artist and a love interest to ranch handler Ryan introduced in season five, specifically for Wilson.

With her toes in both television and music, the songstress is walking a path similar to the one McEntire set out on 30 years ago. And thats no accident.

When I think about the kind of careers that I want to have, I think of, like, Reba. Shes not scared to do all of it, Wilson said.

Not only has McEntire been a pillar of country music since the early 90s, shes also appeared in films and a variety of television shows, written best-selling books, and created her own retail empire. She even owns a restaurant in Oklahoma.

Thats the kind of legacy Wilson is working towards.

At the end of the day, awards are nice. You accept it, its a gift. But, I cant let that be the thing that drives me, Wilson said.

Listen to Lainey Wilson's Biscuits & Jam podcast

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Heres What the Love Island Cast Wore to Run into Their Exes

While pop culture stans of the 90s had Princess Dianas revenge dress to obsess over, we have Love Island revenge outfits. Love Island UK is known for having the messiest breakups both on and off screen, and the newest spinoff Love Island All Stars is no exception. While winners Molly Smith and Tom Clare are still togetherGeorgia Steel and Toby Aromolaran, Jess Gale and Callum Jones, and Georgia Harrison and Anton Danyluk, have all called it quits since the shows conclusion.

If youre following the cast on social media, you know that when Pretty Little Thing hosts an event, most of the islanders will be in attendancewhich makes for some messy running-into-your-ex situations. Anyone thats been through a breakup knows that you need to look your absolute best when seeing your ex again. For Georgia S and Jess, Pretty Little Things 1st Birthday was the place to make their exes eat their hearts out. (Georgia H wasnt in attendance but we have no doubt she wouldve pulled out her best outfit too.)

While most of the islanders have messy relationships with their cast mates both romantically and platonically (Georgia Steel has made it clear shes not close with any of them), the stakes were very high at the Pretty Little Thing party. Think of it as the Met Gala of the Love Island franchise. And while were all judging their outfits from homewe know deep down that theyre doing the same exact thing to each other.

Georgia Steel

Georgia Steel

Georgia Steel stepped out in an unconventional revenge outfit for the Pretty Little Thing party. While her ex Toby wasnt in attendance, she definitely dressed up knowing he would see photos from the night. For her revenge look, she wore a black denim button up shirt and matching pants with black pointed heels. Regardless of your opinions of Georgia, you have to admit shes always looking her best. Although this is less showy than her usual outfits, she still looks very chic.

Jess Harding

Jess Harding

After a recent breakup with Callum, Jess arrived to the PLT party wearing a cropped pale pink corset and an animal print mini skirt. Callum also attended the party, so luckily Jess had her twin sister Eve with her to take on the night.

Anton Danyluk

Anton Danyluk

Anton also dressed to the nines for the Pretty Little Thing party. Him and Georgia Harrison recently split, so this is his own version of a revenge outfit. While hes much more dressed up than the other male islanders, we cant help but applaud him for looking so put together.

Arabella Chi

Arabella Chi

Although Arabella Chi and Adam Maxted havent been together since the show ended, we still consider this to be her revenge fit. Her khaki blazer and slouchy boots compliment each other perfectly. Who knows, this cute fit might lead to a new romance.

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The billions of dollars in bail demanded by Ukrainian law enforcement as a preventive measure for Ferrexpo's directors indicates that high-ranking officials are involved in actions against the international company.

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Yevhen Magda, political scientist and director of the Institute of World Policy writes about this in his blog on liga.net.

The expert points out that recently there have been regular reports of a drop in Ferrexpo shares, which, in his opinion, may indicate an attempt to exert external information influence on the company. Mahda suggests that one of the reasons for this pressure is the personality of the company's Ukrainian co-owner.

Yevhen Mahda writes that the co-owner of this company is Kostiantyn Zhevaho. A Ukrainian businessman with a difficult experience of cooperation with the national authorities. He was arrested in December 2022 in the French resort of Courchevel on a warrant issued by the Office of the Prosecutor General. However, in 2023, the French courts, up to and including the French Supreme Court, issued a number of verdicts refusing to extradite the businessman to Ukraine. The reason is political motives in the prosecution of Zhevaho, which became obvious to the French judges.

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The political analyst reminds that Zhevaho's family owns a share of the opposition Espresso TV channel, which was removed from digital broadcasting in Ukraine two years ago, along with Priamyi and Channel 5.

According to Yevhen Mahda, another reason for the persecution of Konstiantyn Zhevaho is that, unlike other businessmen who are under pressure from the authorities, he has not accepted it.

"Businessmen of varying degrees of publicity have been the targets of spontaneous attention from law enforcement agencies in Ukraine. And what is especially interesting is that sometimes this attention disappeared like dew in the sun on a hot day. Therefore, we understand that some of them decided not to make a fuss, but to "look for common ground." But there were also those who publicly resisted the arbitrariness of the so-called effective managers," the political scientist notes.

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The expert emphasized that Ferrexpo is nothing new, as the company has been subject to raider attacks before.

"They have tried to squeeze the business that has become a global brand more than once. The representatives of the so-called "Luzhniki" - a Russian business group headed by Alexander Babakov, a former Deputy Speaker of the State Duma who is close to Putin - have made the greatest efforts to do so. Recently, the British courts put a final stop to these efforts. The Ukrainian authorities and the non-profit companies controlled by them got involved in a very synchronized manner, trying to get out of international business," writes Yevhen Mahda.

The political scientist reminds that Konstiantyn Zhevaho owns less than 50% of Ferrexpo, and the rest belongs to the world-famous Black Rock Corporation, which has significant financial resources and political influence around the world. Accordingly, he assumes that the government's goal is not to clarify its relationship with Mr. Zhevaho, but to take international business hostage.

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Thus, Yevhen Mahda summarizes that the moral of the story is very simple: until there are fundamental changes in the Ukrainian governments philosophy, we can talk about the existence of an investment climate (and stock market), strengthening of our country's defense capabilities and position on the world stage in spite of, not because of, the state's efforts. In the context of the war with Russia, this is a very dangerous line of behavior.
LOS ANGELES  Even Michael Douglas had doubts about portraying Benjamin Franklin in the Oscar-winning actor's first period drama.

Douglas, 79, who famously proclaimed "Greed is Good" in his iconic 1987 "Wall Street" role, just had to glance at Franklin's ubiquitous portrait on the $100 bill to see there wasn't much resemblance to the Founding Father.

"There was a lot of hesitancy from top to bottom. I'd take a look at a $100 bill and I was like, 'Hmm, I don't know,'" Douglas says of the role.

So he leaned into Michael Douglas  from the hair to the laugh and the signature gravelly voice  to play the 18th-century giant, who lived from 1706-1790. "As well as people have known me over so many years, that persona was needed to lead this story through," says Douglas.

Here's how Douglas pulled off "Franklin" (streaming Fridays on AppleTV+), based on Stacy Schiffs 2005 historical novel A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, And The Birth of America."

Michael Douglas on playing Ben Franklin I wanted to see how I looked in tights

Michael Douglas grew his own hair to be Benjamin Franklin in "Franklin." Says Douglas, "I used to have long hair in '60s when I was a hippie. So it saved me from having to wear a wig."

Why is Benjamin Franklin in France during 'Franklin'?

The 18th-century intellectual giant, most recently the subject of a 2022 Ken Burns documentary, is famous for helping Thomas Jefferson draft the Declaration of Independence, his lightning storm experiments on electricity and as the publisher whose wise sayings were chronicled in his annual Poor Richard's Almanack.

Yet Douglas was surprised to learn the critical role Franklin, who was 70 in 1776, played in secretly courting crucial French assistance for the floundering American Revolution against the two countries' mutual rival, England.

"I thought back to my high school history classes, and this crucial chapter of Franklin going to France wasn't even spoken of," says Douglas, who believes the series highlights the still-fragile state of American democracy. "We were in trouble in America and Franklin was the last hope. He improvised and because he was so smart, pulled it off."

Franklin, with his teenage grandson Temple (Noah Jupe), navigates British spies and the French court in the series shot throughout France, including at the famed Palace of Versailles.

Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas) stumbles giving a toast in French in "Franklin." Douglas too mangled the language.

Douglas brought the real long hair, bad French

Douglas has shown his transformational powers with his Emmy-winning performance as Liberace in 2013's HBO project "Behind the Candelabra."

But the actor decided to forgo the arduous daily makeup and prosthetics to become Franklin, which would have added physical changes such as the bald forehead, as well as heavier neck and body seen in portraits.

"It would have been 2 1/2 hours of makeup and then 40 minutes to take it off. That's a big part of your shooting day sitting in the chair," says Douglas. "When you're talking 160 shooting days, it made me nervous."

Douglas earned Franklin's likeness naturally by growing out his hair. The wilder look led to tabloid headlines but went down just fine with his wife of 23 years, actress Catherine Zeta-Jones.

"Catherine loves me any way she can get me," says Douglas. "And I had long hair in the '60s when I was a hippie. So it saved me from wearing a wig."

Benjamin Franklin portrait from 1778, by Joseph Siffred Duplessis

He donned the period outfit, embracing the tights, the custom-made shoes, the famed Franklin spectacles, and the marten fur hat that was the talk of France at the time. Voila! Ben Franklin by way of Michael Douglas.

"Within minutes of the series you're all in with him," insists director Tim Van Patten.

Same deal with Franklin's accent, which does not deviate much from the famous actor's distinctive voice. Even Douglas' poor French worked since written history shows Franklin also struggled with the language.

"I speak a little bit of French and thought I was pretty good until I saw the series," says Douglas. "I realized I was as bad as every American tourist in France."

Douglas insisted on the Franklin proud farting scenes

There are moments of joyous Founding Father flatulence in "Franklin."

"I have to take responsibility for that. I just thought he should fart a couple of times," says Douglas. "I mean he's in his 70s, he's not well, and passing wind can be funny."

It's also historically accurate and relevant since Franklin trumpeted the joys of tooting in France. In the 1781 satirical essay "Fart Proudly," Franklin proclaimed the joys of "discharging freely the wind from (the) Bowels" seven times a day.

"I read the fart essay and thought it was fabulous," says Douglas, who pushed to have it included. "At first they were like, 'Nah!' But I said, read this, it's one of the joys of life."

Ben Franklin (Michael Douglas) plays the instrument her invented, the glass armonica, in "Franklin."

Franklin invented the glass armonica, Douglas never mastered it

Douglas was also impressed to learn that Franklin invented an instrument that makes music through water-filled glass bottles, the glass armonica.

"He had all the tricks, bells and whistles to make himself a universal man," says Douglas. The actor plays the instrument in "Franklin," but never mastered it. "I was able to get sounds out of it, but let's just say that scene was recorded," says Douglas.

Douglas eventually got used to seeing himself as Franklin, especially during a scene where the French celebrity is feted at a gallery filled with paintings and statutes of his likeness. "I laughed my ass off when I walked into that room filled with portraits," says Douglas. "I had to keep at least one of them. So I took one of the more over-the-top paintings."

He confesses the framed Douglas-Franklin watercolor is not yet in the New York home he shares with Zeta-Jones.

"It's in storage," says Douglas. "We haven't quite found the proper place to hang it up."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Michael Douglas brings Ben Franklin to life in Apple TV's 'Franklin'
Olivier Awards To Stream On BritBox International In Australia, Canada And U.S.

The Olivier Awards will be available to stream on Britbox this year, alongside its regular UK broadcast on ITV1. The Olivier Awards will take place on Sunday, April 14, and will be available to American and Canadian audiences on SVOD service Britbox on the same day. Australian audiences will have access to the stream from Monday, April 15.

Emmy winner Hannah Waddingham is set to return as host to the Royal Albert Hall this year, and will be joined by a starry lineup of presenters including Edward Enninful, Brian Cox, and Cara Delevingne.

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The past year saw a record-breaking number of new plays on British stages, and the nominees reflect a significant crossover between the screen and the stage. Hollywood stars nominated this year include first-time Olivier nominee Sarah Jessica Parker for Plaza Suite, James Norton for A Little Life, and Nicole Scherzinger for Sunset Boulevard.

Sundays ceremony will see performances from Mastercard Best New Musical nominees including The Little Big Things, Next To Normal, Operation Mincemeat and A Strange Loop, alongside Best Musical Revival nominees Guys & Dolls and Hadestown.

The upcoming edition of the Olivier Awards will coincide with the 60th anniversary of the National Theatre. The theater, founded by acting and directing legend Laurence Olivier, has been nominated for 15 awards this year and will celebrate the landmark anniversary with a special grand finale and onstage dedication.

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Scottish auteur Lynne Ramsay and former Icelandic Film Center (IFC) chief Laufey Gujonsdottir received honors from the 10th anniversary edition of Reykjaviks Stockfish Film & Industry Festival (April 4  14, 2024). The awards, presented during a reception on April 11th, celebrate outstanding contributions to the film industry both internationally and domestically.

Known for its intimate atmosphere and ease of networking, the non-profit Stockfish is overseen by the six professional associations of filmmakers in Iceland, members of which comprise the festival board. The festival offers screenings of domestic and international features along with the popular Shortfish, a juried competition for Icelandic shorts in a variety of categories. The festival honors are part of an industry program that includes talks and panels as well as Icelandic works-in-progress.

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Citing honoree Ramsays unique artistry, Stockfishs artistic director Hronn Kristinsdottir praised the director-screenwriter for challenging conventions and pushing boundaries in an industry dominated by male voices. Ramsay, whose films Ratcatcher, Morvern Callar and We Need To Talk About Kevin are screening as part of mini-retrospective, evoked cheers and laughter from the crowd as she remarked, Iceland is a lot like Scotland, only more magical.

In presenting the award to Gujonsdottir, actress orunn Larusdottir noted that during Gujonsdottirs two decades at the helm of the IFC the Icelandic film industry multiplied and became a significant part of the economy as well as a valuable cultural asset. She credited Gujonsdottir for shaping the funding framework that catalyzed the creation of Icelandic stories able to speak to the world. Meanwhile, Gujonsdottir humbly paid tribute to the artists who made the films. She also emphasized the importance to filmmakers of continued government support, international collaborations and festivals.

Before the awards presentation, Ramsay told Variety that she has three scripts ready. Likely to shoot first is Die, My Love, starring Jennifer Lawrence, an adaptation of a novel by Argentine writer Ariana Harwicz about a woman living in isolation in rural France who loses her mind amid marriage and motherhood.

Theres also the provisionally-titled Dark Slides, a drama to star Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara from an original script she wrote. Although some outlets report this project as being in post, Ramsay says shooting has not started.

Stone Mattress, an adaptation of a short tale by Canadian writer Margaret Atwood, penned with her You Were Never Really Here cinematographer Tom Townend, is likely to be a more complex production since it is set on a cruise ship in the Arctic. Last year, Julianne Moore, Sandra Oh and Kyle Chandler were reported to board the project.

While she waits for her next project to shoot, Ramsay is co-writing another project with Townend called Hierarchies. She is also writing some music with guitarist George Vjestica, a Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds band member, that Jennifer Lawrence may record.

Ramsay will conduct an open talk at the festival with her longtime editor and friend Lucia Zuchetti on April 12th. Asked what advice she might give local filmmakers, she says she will recommend the book that currently gives her inspiration: The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin.

A shared interest in the aforementioned book has already led her to another creative, Emmy-winning American composer Dustin OHalloran, whom she met in Iceland and hopes to collaborate with in the future.

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Song's characters come to life in 'Nina Simone: Four Women' at Milwaukee Repertory Theater

"Nina Simone: Four Women," Milwaukee Repertory Theater's new production, is neither a musical nor a revue. Instead, Christina Ham's play with substantial music dramatizes how Simone made civil rights activism the driving force in her songs following the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama.

That bombing killed four Black girls: Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson and Carol Denise McNair. Three Klu Klux Klan members were belatedly convicted of their murders.

As Ham's play begins, Simone is trying to write the song that would become "Mississippi Goddam," her protest anthem, when she is interrupted by unexpected visits from Sarah, Sephronia and Sweet Thing  three characters from her song "Four Women."

In the Rep production, Broadway veteran Brittney Mack is Sweet Thing, whom the playwright describes as "enticing whether she wants to be or whether shes paid to be."

"She is the sexuality of Black women standing flat-footed saying, 'Here I am. And I'm not apologizing for it,'" Mack said when interviewed during a recent rehearsal break.

"She didn't get to own her body and own her sexuality by herself," Mack said. "As a young woman, she was forced into it and pushed into it and felt like there was no return after that."

Feeling like playwright 'is telling all our secrets'

Some commentators have seen Sarah, Sephronia and Sweet Thing, the characters come to life from Simone's song, as archetypal roles Black women have been forced into by racism.

In building her character for this show, Mack has her own role model in mind: "She is the manifestation of Donna Summer's 'Bad Girls.'"

Brittney Mack performs in "Nina Simone: Four Women."

Even as Mack lavished praise on the playwright, she said it can be unnerving performing Ham's play.

"I feel like she is telling all our secrets," Mack said, referring to things Black women talk about, including colorism in the Black community.

In the show, Nina (played by Alexis J. Roston) has "a wonderful train of thought," Mack said, about how the world has never been kind to real Black-looking woman.

"Oh God, I get emotional thinking about it," Mack said.

"Especially as a young Black woman, that's how you're raised, you have to work harder, you have to be better  because you will still be less even when you're the best."

Mack, a Chicago native, was introduced to Simone's music as a little girl by her mom and her granddad (who also turned her on to Fats Waller). What Mack loved most about Simone was how her voice sounded. Like Roberta Flack, Simone sounds like a piano when she sings, Mack said.

"The way Nina's voice vibrates reminds me of how a grand piano vibrates."

Describing herself as a very petite Black woman with a big voice, Mack said "listening to Nina Simone was like the beginning of my permission to be big."

The Rep show, a co-production with Kansas City Repertory Theatre, is directed by Milwaukee native Malkia Stampley.

Finding common ground with a queen

In the Broadway production of the musical "Six," in which a multiracial cast portrayed the wives of Henry VIII, Mack was Anna of Cleves, the fourth wife (her song, for those who know the show, was "Get Down"). A 16th-century white German woman might seem a long way from a 21st-century Black Chicagoan, but Mack found plenty of ways to identify.

By some accounts, Henry never consummated his marriage with Anna because he found her physically unappealing. As a darker-skinned Black woman, that element of the story "was the most challenging (emotionally)," Mack said. For the assertive character she portrayed in "Six," Mack built her performance on the many positives she learned about Anna, including her supportive family and her solid foundation in her identity.

"And she was very beautiful. And she was very cool."

If you go

Milwaukee Repertory Theater performs "Nina Simone: Four Women" from April 16-May 12 at the Quadracci Powerhouse Theater, 108 E. Wells St. For tickets, visit milwaukeerep.com or call (414) 224-9490.

More: Milwaukee Repertory Theater schedules groundbreaking date for major construction project

More: 'MJ,' 'Wicked,' Neil Diamond musicals top list of Marcus Center's 2024-'25 Broadway series

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 'Four Women' dramatizes how singer Nina Simone became an activist
Paramount is reportedly investigating claims that the actor used disparaging language on the set.

Paramount is reportedly looking into whether Sylvester Stallone made offensive comments about extras on the set of TVs Tulsa King. (Joel C Ryan/Invision/AP)

Sylvester Stallone is facing allegations that he mocked the appearance of background actors on the Atlanta set of Paramount+s Tulsa King. Stallone hasnt commented, but director Craig Zisk  who Stallone allegedly made the comments to  denied the claims. Parent company Paramount is reportedly investigating.

 What happened?

The veteran actor and star of the Rocky and Rambo franchises, 77, is filming Season 2 of Taylor Sheridans Tulsa King series. Its his first starring TV role.

On April 7, Atlanta-based Catrett Locke Casting told its clients it had chosen to part ways with the show.

A writer not affiliated with the show circulated two social media posts. One was about casting director Rose Locke witnessing a clear toxic environment she was not comfortable putting myself or background artists in. (Locke hasnt commented.)

Got this disturbing news from my Atlanta friend whos background on Tulsa King this wk. Casting agent quit because she was so disgusted. My friend is feeling anxious about working now. @TheSlyStallone what do you have to say for yourself, sir? Beyond disappointed, Im livid. pic.twitter.com/EYEuiaWtkf  Julie Benson (@TheJulieBenson) April 9, 2024

The second post claimed someone on the set observed Stallone asking the director: what the F*** is up with these F****** ugly background [actors]. Stallone and Zisk allegedly called the extras terrible names, including tub of lard and fat guy with cane.

They claimed Stallone  who plays a mafioso who is released from prison and exiled to Oklahoma to rebuild his crime empire  said he wanted production to bring in pretty young girls to be around me on set.

 Whats happened since?

While Stallone hasnt commented, Zisk denied that any insults were uttered. He told TMZ that Locke improperly cast background actors for a scene inside a young, hip bar. The actors cast were older than the requested 25-to-35-year-old range. He said they used them anyway and that the actors were polite and did their jobs."

Zisk also denied that Stallone asked for pretty girls, adding that the actors wife, Jennifer Flavin, was on the set.

Background actor Thomas Mooneyham  who was replaced in the bar scene and was the lone actor using a cane  told Deadline that while he didnt hear Stallone mock his body or mobility, he noticed the star looking over at him and laughing. He and another extra were then replaced with a younger cowboy and a good-looking cowgirl. Mooneyham said he feels singled out over the incident and his feelings got hurt. He added: Im more pissed than hurt. And its just because of my disability.

According to the same outlet, producers talked to the cast and crew about the situation and their commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment. Further, Paramount is investigating the allegations of disparaging language, according to CNN and Fox News.

SAG-AFTRA, the actors union, said in a statement to the Hollywood Reporter: There is no room on any set for disparaging comments to background actors or any performers. Though we have not been contacted directly about the incident on set of Tulsa King in Atlanta, SAG-AFTRA is committed to the safety and well being of cast members on all productions.
Young Sheldons Montana Jordan and Emily Osment Weigh In on Georgie and Mandys Wedding, Missing Guests

Mandy McAllisters officially a Cooper.

Thursdays Young Sheldon  which marked the halfway point of the Big Bang Theory prequels seventh and final season  kicked off with Georgie and Mandys City Hall wedding, a low-key affair attended by everyone. Well, almost everyone.

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Sheldon wasnt present for his brothers wedding (not that he minded). Neither was Mandys brother, who got a shout-out during the newlyweds drive to Dollywood.

Season 7, Episode 7  A Proper Wedding and Skeletons in the Closet  also marked a turning point for Meemaw, whose illegal gambling room was shut down by police. As a result, Georgie will return home from his honeymoon to find that hes out of a job. Where does he go from here? (Well bet you already have a hunch.)

In Part 4 (of 4) of TVLines Q&A, series stars Montana Jordan and Emily Osment weigh in on Georgie and Mandys nuptials, their missing wedding guests, and which Young Sheldon characters theyd like to see on their as-yet-untitled spinoff. They also tee up an upcoming episode involving Georgies relationship with his mother-in-law Audrey.

Georgie and Mandy 'Young Sheldon' Spinoff Cast, Release Date, Everything We Know

Young Sheldons Georgie and Mandy Spinoff: Everything We Know

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Ahead of Georgie and Mandys wedding, Jordan and Osment sat down with TVLine for their first interview about the highly anticipated Young Sheldon offshoot. They also reminisced about their favorite Georgie and Mandy moments, and weighed in on CeeCees secret baptisms. You can watch Parts 1-3 below.

New episodes of Young Sheldon air Thursdays at 8/7c on CBS (and stream the next day on Paramount+). Its one-hour series finale is slated for May 16.

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In 1776, our founding fathers established life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as the foundational principles of American society.

Thats why we celebrate the day these rights were affirmed in the Declaration of Independence each year on the Fourth of July.

Thanks to the bravery and wisdom of our forefathers, America set itself apart as a country dedicated to a new concept of citizenship.

The U.S. Constitution enshrined our national duty to promote justice, peace, and equality. Throughout decades of war and conflict, Americans have fought tenaciously to preserve our national spirit, and each citizen participates in the process of forging our countrys unique identity.

Above all, our sense of collective loyalty, responsibility, and patriotism are central to the health of the country.

As President John F. Kennedy famously told his fellow Americans in his 1961 inaugural address, "Ask not what your country can do for you  ask what you can do for your country.

Before you turn on the grill for this year's Fourth of July festivities, take a moment to contemplate the hard work and sacrifice that American citizens have endured with these patriotic quotes from American leaders.

Patriotic quotes that celebrate America

I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.  Nathan Hale

I hold it, that a little rebellion, now and then, is a good thing, and as necessary in the political world as storms in the physical.  Thomas Jefferson

I was born an American; I will live an American; I shall die an American!  Daniel Webster

No man is worth his salt who is not ready at all times to risk his body, to risk his well-being, to risk his life, in a great cause.  Theodore Roosevelt

Let me ask you, sir, when is the time for brave men to exert themselves in the cause of liberty and their country, if this is not?  George Washington

Patriotic quotes

True patriotism springs from a belief in the dignity of the individual, freedom and equality not only for Americans but for all people on earth, universal brotherhood and good will, and a constant and earnest striving toward the principles and ideals on which this country was founded.  Eleanor Roosevelt

The way to be patriotic in America is not only to love America, but to love the duty that lies nearest to our hand, and to know that in performing it we are serving our country.  Woodrow Wilson

A mans country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle, and patriotism is loyalty to that principle.  George William Curtis

The Constitution of the United States was made not merely for the generation that then existed, but for posterity  unlimited, undefined, endless, perpetual posterity.  Henry Clay

The freedom which so many Americans have fought for and died for comes with responsibilities as well as rights. And among those are love and charity and duty and patriotism.  Barack Obama

Patriotic quotes

Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.  Benjamin Franklin

Unless our conception of patriotism is progressive, it cannot hope to embody the real affection and the real interest of the nation.  Jane Addams

And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you  ask what you can do for your country.  John F. Kennedy

A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government.  Edward Abbey

I see that the old flagpole still stands. Have your troops hoist the colors to its peak, and let no enemy ever haul them down.  Douglas MacArthur

Patriotic quotes

The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.  Thomas Jefferson

A very few, as heroes, patriots, martyrs, reformers in the great sense, and men, serve the State with their consciences also, and so necessarily resist it for the most part; and they are commonly treated by it as enemies.  Henry David Thoreau

These are the times that try mens souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.  Thomas Paine

Only lay down true principles, and adhere to them inflexibly.  Thomas Jefferson

True patriots measure themselves not by personal wealth or power but by the degree to which they contribute to the community.  Eric Liu

Patriotic quotes

We are a nation of many nationalities, many races, many religions bound together by a single unity, the unity of freedom and equality.  Franklin D. Roosevelt

It is not what we have that will make us a great nation; it is the way in which we use it.  Theodore Roosevelt

The great end of all human industry, is the attainment of happiness. For this were arts invented, sciences cultivated, laws ordained, and societies modelled, by the most profound wisdom of patriots and legislators.  David Hume

Someday, I hope that we will all be patriots of our planet and not just of our respective nations.  Zoe Weil

Democracy is never a final achievement. It is a call to an untiring effort.  John F. Kennedy

Patriotic quotes

It is the flag just as much of the man who was naturalized yesterday as of the man whose people have been here many generations.  Henry Cabot Lodge

The country needs and, unless I mistake its temper, the country demands bold, persistent experimentation. It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something.  Franklin D. Roosevelt

There is one thing that the American people always rise to and extend their hand to and that is the truth of justice, and of liberty, and of peace.  Woodrow Wilson

The essence of patriotism lies in a willingness to sacrifice for ones country, just as true greatness finds expression, not in blessings enjoyed, but in good bestowed.  William Jennings Bryan

True patriotism, it seems to me, is based on tolerance and a large measure of humility.  Adlai Stevenson II

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Heres the ticket to trying airline exclusive beers.

Food & Wine / Cathay Pacific / Ingrid Barrentine / Alaska Airlines

Once you get past security frustration, baggage fees and other nonsense, airports can be quite fun. Theyre one of the few places on earth where its socially acceptable to have a beer or shot at 9 a.m. or a third glass of wine in the middle of the afternoon. Drinking hits differently in an airport and can be a pleasant way to take the edge off the flight to come.

Thats helpful because drinking on planes can be a totally different story. There was a time when, as in-flight options dwindled, discerning travelers would bring their own cocktail kits onboard flights to mix a proper drink, until airline restrictions began to prohibit self-mixology from happening.

So, when the drink cart comes haltingly down the aisle, there are usually precious few options for liquid refreshment. You can pick from an assortment of mini liquor bottles, house red or white wine, or a few beers, usually of the generic lager variety.

However, some airlines have recently begun to try to bring a little zing to the in-flight beverage experience. This is easiest done with beer. While the worlds largest breweries like Anheuser-Busch InBev, MolsonCoors, and Heineken still have the market cornered, theyve expanded their offerings beyond light lagers and into their craft brands, like Goose Island, Elysian, and others.

Related: How to Pair Airline Snacks and In-Flight Cocktails, According to Bar Pros

This has meant the introduction of hop-forward beers to the friendly skies. The more assertive a beers taste, the more likely it is to make an impression on the palate. Altitude and cabin pressurization have shown to stunt olfactory senses and the tastebuds, making salty or sweet foods taste blander than they otherwise would on the ground. Hoppy beers, especially assertive ones, perk up the flavor receptors a bit more.

Some airlines have gone beyond offering traditional or readily available beers and have worked with breweries to create special offerings brewed just for them.

Beer producers go airline exclusive

Cathay Pacific Airlines has partnered with Hong Kongs Gweilo Beer to create Betsy Beer. The 4.2% ABV pale ale is named after the airlines first aircraft and embodies the dedication, spirit and ingenuity of the airline, according to the beers description.

Flavors of mandarin orange have been lovingly tuned for altitude, with the finest barley and hops, carefully balanced for depth and aroma, says the airline, describing the beer. The result is a craft pale ale that tastes great anywhere, but really takes off at 35,000 feet.

Gweilo Beer / Cathay Pacific

More recently Alaska Airlines announced that Seattles Fremont Brewing would begin serving a custom IPA on its West Coast flights and in lounges.

The collaboration between Alaska and Fremont is not just about the artwork on the can, it is the story of two Seattle-based brands that share common values, coming together to create a remarkable product we hope brings a smile to our guests who drink it, said Jonny Mack, Alaskas studio creative manager, in a news release.

Related: 10 Top Airports for Food and Drinks, According to the Experts

The beer came together, says Fremont founder Matt Lincecum, during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic. When supply chain issues began to spring up, Alaska Airlines contacted Fremont about helping to make sure the planes that were flying were still stocked with beer.

The brewery had previously had its beers offered on Alaska flights, but as the world began to open up again and more flights resumed, the two companies began discussing a collaboration and creating a unique beer for the airline.

Conversations began in earnest last year and the Cloud Cruiser IPA debuted earlier this year. The ale offers aromas and flavors of citrus and melon and clocks in at 6.2% ABV.

Ingrid Barrentine / Alaska Airlines

Lincecum says that when running trials, they wanted to create a beer that could stand up to the rigors of air travel and remain fresh for long periods of time.

We want those hops to pop when you open the can during the flight, he says. The beer is also available in the brewerys tasting room for those curious drinkers who arent taking to the skies anytime soon.

The two companies also collaborated on the can design, which has a golden age of travel vibe, with a 737-8 MAX depicted cruising through the clouds along an evergreen tree mountain range.

We felt that a national park-inspired design with one of our aircraft, in Alaska colors, speaks to our roots in the Pacific Northwest, says Mack. The creativity and thoughtfulness that went into the design of this can is just another example of bringing to life our value of Being Remarkable.

Air travel might feel like a hassle, but hopefully the trend of new specialty beers offered in flight can help to create a little extra leg room for the soul.

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The illegal smuggling of ancient artifacts is a problem worldwide, but a high-profile case in Peru showed this shadowy operation in practice.

Dolls fashioned from human remains, originally discovered in Perus Nazca region, were presented as aliens during a session of the Mexican congress in September of 2023.

While this hoax was quickly debunked, the episode did generate a question as to how these valuable artifacts left Peru in the first place.

For every legitimate researcher trying their best to ferret out some evidence of alien life somewhere out in the vastness of the universe, it seems like there are twice as many hoaxters trying to convince the world that aliens are already among us. And the tin foil hat crowd will do anything to convince the world they've found the evidence of a life timeincluding turn to graverobbing in a strange, mad dash to loot a Peruvian cavern found in the Nazca regiona region famous for lines that are yet another ancient wonder awash in alien conspiracy.



Much like the content of these caves near Cusco, Peru, this story begins in a strange way. In September of 2023, a Mexican journalist and UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan claimed to have alien corpses in his possession, and proceeded to present them before the Mexican congress . At the time, Sky News reported that Maussan claimed under oath that these specimens are not part of our evolutionary history on Earth they are not beings recovered from a UFO crash. Instead, they were found in diatom (algae) mines and subsequently became fossilized.

Of course, this wasnt Maussans first alien conspiracy rodeo , and experts quickly debunked these otherworldly claims with evidence that was much more terrestrial.

Theyre not extraterrestrials. Theyre dolls made from animal bones from this planet joined together with modern synthetic glue, archaeologist Flavio Estrada, who works with Perus Institute for Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, said during a press conference in Lima. Its totally a made-up story.

While the alien part of this archeological equation was a fabrication, the Peruvian artifacts that were somehow looted and exported out of the country were very real. The man who originally found the cavern containing the bodiesLeandro Riveratold Reuters in a recent interview that he found the site by chance and proceeded to remove some 200 sets of remains from the cave, which have since been smuggled across the globe.

Perus Nazca region is an archeological hotspot, as its salt flats do wonders for preserving human remains. But that also makes it a target for grave robbers looking to make a quick buck.

The looting has not stopped, Evelyn Centurion, Perus head of cultural heritage recovery for the Culture Ministry, said in an interview with Reuters. We need greater collaboration from local governments and local authorities to prevent these illicit acts.

According to archeologists, online black markets have made grave robbing a booming business, and the COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated the problem. While the looting of antiquities throughout South America is likely to continue, Peru is working on specific task force to go after looters, as well as stiffening penalties.

Turns out an otherworldly hoaxed revealed a very real problem.

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ASHEVILLE - Today's question is about a new installation at a public park. Do you have a question for Answer Man or Answer Woman? Email Executive Editor Karen Chavez at KChavez@citizentimes.com and your question could appear in an upcoming column.

Question: What is the artwork on the concrete slab at French Broad River Park?

Answer: Chuck Hunner, a 22-year Asheville resident, often jogs through the parks and greenway along the French Broad River with his running group, The Realistic Runners of Asheville. One day, he noticed a bare concrete slab embedded in one of the grassy areas at French Broad River Park, and his imagination kicked into gear.

Hunner, a professional labyrinth builder and designer with Golden Spirit Labyrinths, reached out to the City of Asheville with the idea to transform the blank slate of concrete into a symmetrical meditation labyrinth pattern that creates walking paths for individuals to follow to enhance peace of mind.

Chuck Hunner labyrinth poses with a labyrinth he helped create at Fern Leaf School in Fletcher.

In March, Hunner gifted the city and visitors of the park with "Heart of Chartres," a five-circuit labyrinth inspired by the center of the 800-year-old labyrinth on the floor of Chartres Cathedral in France.

A labyrinth is a single path. Theres only one path and no dead ends, no wrong turns, Hunner said. You come to the entrance, take a breath, and then walk forward and watch your thoughts as you walk.

Hunner said part of the motivation to donate the piece was the work would happen sooner than later, as it often takes years for groups to vote, approve, and then raise money for the art commissions. He said it took less than two months for the city to approve the French Broad River Park labyrinth.

The value of Hunners donation is estimated at $8,000.

A new public artwork has appeared at French Broad River Park in Asheville.

The French Broad River Park labyrinth is on a slab roughly 18x24 feet and just more than 17 feet in diameter, according to Hunner.

Pete Wall, assistant director at Asheville Parks and Recreation, said in an email the slab was intended to display art and exhibits but had been vacant for nearly 20 years.

Wall said the city seeks ways to improve parks, designed to provide gathering spaces and amenities for the community and celebrate cultures, arts, music, people and the beauty in the region.

This opportunity to work with Chuck was a great way to improve an under utilized area to that effect. I appreciate Chuck's willingness to work with us and improve the park and quality of life for our residents," Wall said.

Hunners team completed the French Broad River Park labyrinth in about two weeks. He said a piece of this size typically takes two or three days but there were delays due to the artists schedule.

Hunner, whos been in the labyrinth-making business for 18 years, said labyrinth installations are a team effort and Charlie Haden, Marie Pickle and Robert Haden assisted with the recent artwork.

I scored the labyrinth pattern into the concrete with a circular saw then a diamond blade about an eighth of an inch deep, Hunner said. Then, I came back, and our team colored the line with the green polymer cement.

Charlie Haden (left) and Marie Pickle (right) were on the artist team with Robert Haden and Chuck Hunner to create the labyrinth in the French Broad River Park in Asheville.

He said the scoring makes the green polymer cement look like it's inlaid into the bare concrete.

He said the labyrinth creates a place for people to walk in a contemplative space. There are three stages of a labyrinth walk in which things that dont matter will fall away and once in the center the person may recognize solutions to issues, and on the way out, one may think of ways to apply the solutions to their lives.

Ive been a meditator for a long time, Hunner said. The first labyrinth I walked into was on a beach in Naples, Florida in 1998. I immediately felt a meditative feeling come over me, but my eyes were open, and I was walking, and Id never felt that before.

Hunner said his installation is intended to replace another labyrinth north of the Cotton Mill Studios in the River Arts District that has been fenced off from the public by the company developing the land.

Golden Spirit Labyrinths artists have been commissioned for small-to-large-scale labyrinths worldwide.

A close-up of a labyrinth line designed by artist Chuck Hunner.

The first concrete labyrinth Hunner worked on was at Kanuga Episcopal Retreat Center in Kanuga in 2002. Other North Carolina labyrinths include Peace Haven Baptist Church in Winston, J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center in Morganton, Fern Leaf School in Fletcher and St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Rocky Mount.

I make healing pads, People can carry intentions into the labyrinth with them and keep that intention gently in mind and allow the spaciness and consciousness that come with a labyrinth walk to surround that intention and often there will be some resolution  some feeling of completeness or a course of action that will occur to a person as a result of the labyrinth walk.

On May 4, Hunner said he plans to celebrate World Labyrinth Day, an annual international event founded by The Labyrinth Society formed to stimulate moving meditation for world peace and as a celebration of the labyrinth experience.

The concrete labyrinth at Kanuga Episcopal Retreat Center in Kanuga was the first Chuck Hunner worked on, setting off his 18-year design career.

When we think calmly, perhaps we can be a little more rational. Perhaps we can tap into our intuition a little more easily and heal from whatever wounds we have  just make better decisions, Hunner said.

For more about Golden Spirit Labyrinths, visit goldenspirit.com.

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Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at tkennell@citizentimes.com or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Asheville artist donates public art in French Broad River Park to city
British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said that his country is considering providing Ukraine with a prototype of the DragonFire laser weapon. This could become another means of shooting down Russian drones and missiles.

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He also noted that he wants to accelerate the deployment of such weapons on British ships and land to a much shorter time frame. This was reported by The Daily Telegraph.

According to Shapps, London plans to add DragonFire to its arsenal by 2027 but is working to find out if it can send prototypes to Ukraine earlier  even if they are not 100% complete.

"I am absolutely sure that what we have here is very special, and at a level that other countries are unlikely to be able to replicate because it is so advanced. The product itself is ahead of the curve," the minister said of the British laser weapon.

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It is noted that the British Ministry of Defense has accelerated the use of the laser in response to the growing threat of drone attacks in connection with the "two great conflicts"  the wars in Ukraine and Israel.

Scientists at the UK's Porton Down defense laboratory have been working with industry experts in recent months to take the laser weapon from a laboratory experiment to a near-ready weapon.

What we know about DragonFire

DragonFire is a laser beam that can shoot down unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles. It is invisible and silent because the wavelength of the light is close to the infrared spectrum and is about one micron, which the human eye cannot detect.

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The laser beam moves at the speed of light, and its range is still classified. It is noted that it instantly turns the metal surface into a plasma with a temperature of 3000 C and can burn through sheet metal, fuselage, and weapons in seconds.

The system was created to destroy UAVs after the wars in Israel and Ukraine showed that they are the "last frontier" of modern warfare. At the same time, the British Ministry of Defense emphasizes that DragonFire is a powerful enough system to shoot down projectiles that move even faster, such as ballistic missiles.

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The main feature of laser weapons is their low cost. Manufacturers claim that one shot costs only 10 pounds sterling ($12).

In Britain, this laser weapon was tested in January 2024. DragonFire is expected to be installed on Royal Navy warships by 2027, and then the systems will be deployed on land.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Britain is also considering the possibility of transferring additional Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine in exchange for Taurus missiles from Germany. London does not share the concerns of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz that the supply of Taurus could contribute to the escalation of the conflict, so it offers a "ring exchange" of missiles as an option.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Arizona's abortion ban is likely to cause a scramble for services in states where it's still legal

Adrienne Mansanares expects a flurry of calls from patients in Arizona starting this week.

She's the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, which has clinics that provide abortions in Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada. Mansanares said the clinics should be able to accommodate people who are seeking the procedure in the wake of an Arizona Supreme Court decision.

That is still a very long way for patients to go for health care," she added, noting that the clinics already have seen nearly 700 patients from Arizona since Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022.

Doctors and clinic leaders said there'll be a scramble across the Southwest and West for abortion care due to Tuesday's decision, which said officials may enforce an 1864 law criminalizing all abortions except when a womans life is at stake.

People are going to have to start looking out of state, said Dr. Maria Phillis, an Ohio OB-GYN who also has a law degree. This is now another place where they cant go safety to access care.

On top of potentially long distances to states like New Mexico, California and Colorado, patients who used to go to Arizona from other states for abortion care will have to go elsewhere, Phillis said.

Plus, Arizona is home to more than 20 federally recognized tribes, and barriers are expected to be higher for Native Americans because of existing hurdles, such as a decades-old ban on most abortions at clinics and hospitals run by the federal Indian Health Service and fewer nearby health centers offering abortions.

Interstate travel for abortions nearly doubled between 2020 and 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights. Out-of-state patients accounted for 16% of abortions obtained nationally, compared to 9% in 2020, the group said.

Guttmacher data scientist Isaac Maddow-Zimet said that when bans go into effect, more people travel to less restrictive or non-restrictive states, but "not everybody is able to travel.

Traveling could mean pushing abortions later into pregnancy as people try to get appointments and potentially face mandatory waiting periods. According to results of a periodic survey spearheaded by Middlebury College economics professor Caitlin Myers, waits in several states stretched for two or three weeks at various points since federal abortion protections were overturned; some clinics had no available appointments.

The Brigid Alliance works nationally to help people who need abortions receive financial and logistical support like airfare, child care, lodging and other associated costs. Last year, it helped 26 people travel out of Arizona to get abortions.

Interim executive director Serra Sippel expects the number of calls from Arizona residents to grow.

People that the alliance has helped go out of state  mostly from Georgia, Texas and Florida  have seen backlogs stretching to four to five weeks because of higher demand, Sippel said. Some get bounced between clinics because their pregnancy has passed the point that they can get care there.

With a pregnancy, every moment counts, said Sippel, who added that delays can have serious repercussions. Phillis noted procedures done later in a pregnancy could take longer and be slightly more complicated.

The Abortion Fund of Arizona, which helps people travel for abortions both in and out of state, said out-of-state clinics have required patients to stay to take the second pill used in medication abortions because of concerns about liability. That means multi-day trips, said Eloisa Lopez, executive director of Pro-Choice Arizona and the abortion fund.

We're looking at anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per person for travel expenses, with their abortion procedure expense," Lopez said.

Lopez also said she has spoken with the governor's office about state funding for abortion-related travel expenses.

Meanwhile, in Tucson, a CEO of a pregnancy center that opposes abortion said things are likely to stay the same under the new law. Hands of Hope Tucson has been around for 43 years, is about 200 steps from a Planned Parenthood clinic and is pretty busy, CEO Joanie Hammond said.

Were just coming alongside women and men who are facing an unexpected pregnancy  Weve always been about the women and about the babies, she told the AP. At the pregnancy center, I see the women and I see what happens to them after they go through that abortion experience. We just want to be there to help them in the next step for healing and whatever they need.

For Arizona residents who are closer to California, which expanded its abortion protections after Roe v. Wade was overturned, officials are pointing people toward the Abortion Safe Haven Project. Created by the state and Los Angeles County, the project has guidance and resources for out-of-state patients.

Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest put out a statement this week from president and CEO Darrah DiGiorgio Johnson, saying it supports out-of-state patients with navigation services to help them tackle logistical barriers to care.

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This story was first published on April 10, 2024. It was updated on April 12, 2024, to correct to whom Pro-Choice Arizona spoke about funding. The organization talked to the governors office, not municipalities, about state funding for abortion-related travel expenses.

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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
With all the fiery characters she brought to life on screen, playing a domestic goddess may seem a little out of character for her. But in real life, Bette Davis knew her way around the kitchen. Do a quick search online for "Bette Davis recipes" and you'll discover how the Hollywood star had her ways of preparing drinks, main courses, and desserts; she even had a recipe for mustard gelatin rings, which is a kind of aspic.

One that sounds simple and delicious is Davis' red flannel hash recipe. A New England dish, red flannel hash is a tasty and hearty plate that allows you to use leftover corned beef and potatoes from a St. Patrick's Day celebration, with beets added in. Beets are actually central to the dish since they add pops of color reminiscent of a red flannel pattern. They also provide the sweetness that balances the corned beef's saltiness for a filling and well-rounded breakfast.

Born in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1908, Davis' affinity for the dish went beyond her New England roots. As her long-time assistant Kathryn Sermak revealed to The Spectrum, the actress loved potatoes so much that her nickname was Spuds.

Davis' recipe, featured in Frank DeCaro's "The Dead Celebrity Cookbook," is simple: Two cups of cooked corned beef, 3 cups of cold boiled potatoes, and 1.5 cups of cooked beets are chopped, mixed together, and seasoned with cream before they're poured into a "hot, buttered ironware frying pan" where they're cooked over medium heat until they turn brown.

Read more: 25 Most Popular Snacks In America Ranked Worst To Best

The Ingredients For Red Flannel Hash Must Be Finely Chopped

Red flannel hash with fried egg - shafa1121/Shutterstock

What differentiates Davis' recipe is she didn't mention pressing down on the mixture of corned beef, beets, and potatoes while they cook in the pan; she merely instructed stirring and spreading it evenly. Squashing down the ingredients, usually with the help of a potato masher, is a step done when cooking regular corned beef hash since it allows the dish to form a golden crust at the bottom. You can do the same when making red flannel hash so you end with a lightly crisped breakfast. It will also caramelize the beets further, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Whether you follow Davis' recipe to the letter or not, remember to chop the corned beef, beets, and potatoes finely. This lets them have a more uniform size while still retaining their respective natural textures that make breakfast hash enjoyable to bite into.

Top your red flannel hash with eggs to make it more rustic. Davis recommended serving it with a poached egg, but a fried egg works, too. New Englanders can be finicky with this dish in different ways. For some, cooking red flannel hash with eggs is a must since it is breakfast fare whereas others treat it as a dish meant for supper, served with baked beans and coleslaw. It is also common to receive your diner order of red flannel hash with some apple cider vinegar on the side, which is used to further season the dish.

Read the original article on Tasting Table
If you buy bottled water, why do you do it? Maybe you like the convenience or the taste. Maybe you believe it's healthier than tap water. Or maybe  it's okay to admit it!  you're enticed by clever marketing from brands like Evian and Liquid Death.

For centuries, people have bought water for many of the same reasons. Monks sold bottled holy water to pilgrims during the Middle Ages, but it wasn't until the 16th and 17th centuries the industry took off. At the time, wealthy Europeans often vacationed at springs and spas, drawn by the promise of relaxation and restorative waters.

For thousands of years, people have believed that mineral water  untreated water that flows fresh from the ground  has medicinal properties. Even now, medical science agrees that mineral water may have health benefits. As the water flows through the earth, it picks up minerals from deposits in the ground. Many minerals, like calcium and magnesium, help our bodies function.

Since different springs featured different mineral deposits, each spa boasted unique health benefits. Soon, enterprising locals started selling tourists bottled water as souvenirs. The practice spread as a way for those who couldn't afford spa trips to experience the medicinal properties. Many of the bottled water brands found on grocery store shelves date back to this era: Evian opened its first bottling facility in 1826, and in 1845, Poland Spring became one of the first bottled water companies in the United States.

Read more: 26 Coffee Hacks You Need To Know For A Better Cup

Bottled Water Inspired Modern Soft Drinks

Etching of a carbonation machine - Marzolino/Shutterstock

Schweppe's, known for its popular tonic water, is one of those early brands. In the 1700s, a Swiss jeweler named Jacob Schweppe started selling artificially carbonated water, establishing the foundation for the modern soft drink industry. Until the 1760s, carbonated water was only available from springs. Doctors believed carbonated spring water was particularly healthy, but it wasn't accessible to the general public.

Schweppe didn't invent the carbonation process, but he did perfect it. Initially, he donated his carbonated water to those who couldn't afford spa trips; as his business grew, he started charging a small fee. Soon, Schweppe started selling water with different combinations of minerals to target specific ailments. Schweppe's bottled water inspired copycats, and before long the industry was booming  buoyed by new technologies that made it cheaper and easier to produce glass bottles.

When Schweppe's started adding flavors and sweeteners to their drinks, imitators were quick to follow. As brands vied for customers' attention, fruity flavors and health tonics sweetened with syrup started to hit the market  and the world fell in love with soft drinks.

Bottled water sales sank when brands like Coke and Pepsi hit the mainstream. But it wasn't just because customers preferred sugary drinks. After a 1905 typhoid epidemic, public health reformers began chlorinating American water supplies. Americans no longer needed bottled water; they had clean water readily available at home.

Bottled Water Bounces Back

Bottled water for sale - Richard Levine/Getty Images

In the late 1970s, Perrier hatched a plan to enter the American market. At the time, Americans viewed bottled water as decadent  which Perrier capitalized on with a series of high-budget TV ads narrated by Orson Welles. The ads promoted Perrier as natural, sophisticated, and French: "Deep below the planes of Southern France ... Nature herself adds life to the icy waters of a single spring: Perrier," the Hollywood legend says in a silky baritone. Perrier's campaign worked. In the late '70s and early '80s, Americans started seeing health and wellness as status symbols  and Perrier became a fashion accessory.

Perrier's popularity declined in the early '90s after contamination at a bottling plant led to a worldwide recall. By then, the U.S. market was full of brands vying to take Perrier's place. Despite the Perrier recall, Americans started to see bottled water as a healthy alternative to tap. This was partially due to a concentrated effort by water companies and partially due to scandals that called municipal water's quality into question.

Bottled water dipped in popularity during the recession, but came back in full force. In 2016, it overtook soda as America's most popular bottled drink. Some water brands flaunt a premium image, while others boast unique flavors or hail from exotic locals. People still buy bottled water for its medicinal properties, too. Check your grocery store shelves, and you'll see water fortified with vitamins and minerals  a callback to the industry's roots.

Read the original article on Tasting Table
Child care expulsions are more common than you'd think, and they might be rising. Here's what a Kimberly nonprofit is doing about it

Program director Carissa Tiaklasky walks with a student at Lake Edge Learning Center in Neenah on April 11. Lake Edge Learning Center is one of many local child care programs that enlist the help of Child Care Resource and Referral Inc.'s early childhood support coordinator to navigate children's behavioral challenges. Tiakalsky said the CCR&R position helped reduce expulsions at the center.

Swearing. Hitting. Knocking over bookshelves. Throwing things. Violent threats like I am going to kill you.

While alarming, young children are exhibiting these dangerous behaviors in child care programs. Such behaviors are the leading cause of early childhood expulsions in Wisconsin  and they're nothing new. A 2005 study showed children in state funded prekindergarten programs, including child care programs, are more likely to be expelled than students in K-12 schools.

Roughly two years ago, Child Care Resource & Referral Inc. in Kimberly noticed an uptick in child care programs reaching out for help.

We have many programs that call us and say, You are my last resort. If you cant help us, this child cant stay here, said Candy Hall, CCR&R Inc.s executive director.

Given the depth of those struggles  for the children, families and programs  CCR&R knew it had to do something. So last year it created an early childhood support coordinator position to help programs as they navigate challenging behaviors. The goal? To reduce area early childhood expulsions.

Child care programs say its working.

Its not fair to do an expulsion just because of those types of behaviors, and that is why were really appreciative of (the early childhood support coordinator's) services, said Carissa Tikalsky, the program director of Lake Edge Learning Center in Neenah. I feel like it definitely helps reduce the rate of expulsions in our center.

As the early childhood support coordinator, experienced teacher Emily Thiel helps child care programs in a variety of other ways, too, including assisting with policy development and mentoring teachers. As expected with the need being so great, the majority of Thiels time is spent consulting with programs about difficult behaviors, Hall said.

More: Wisconsin preschoolers are 5 times more likely to be expelled than K-12 students, but why?

More: How Wisconsin educators are changing the way they teach to help kids' mental health

Reasons behind challenging behaviors can be complex

Lake Edge Learning Center is among the child care centers that have taken advantage of the services of an early childhood support coordinator to navigate children's behavioral challenges.

According to a 2021 survey, more than half of Wisconsin early care and education professionals reported an increase in challenging behaviors.

There can be myriad reasons why a child is struggling with behavioral issues. On the surface, it might look like a child is "out to get" a teacher or peer, that they are feeding an urge to deliberately cause harm. But it's much more complex, Thiel explained.

The pandemic may have something to do with the recent uptick in challenging behaviors, Hall and Thiel said. When schools and child care programs were shut down  if not entirely, off and on when illness struck  young children were deprived of normal opportunities to build social and emotional connections. Many parents and guardians juggled working full time from home while simultaneously tending to their children. Neither scenario fostered the ideal, stable environment conducive to developing these skills in young ones.

Aside from fallout from the pandemic, physical or mental health conditions can also complicate things. Children can act out of trauma. It can also come down to child care being many childrens first experience in a large group away from home, and they are seeking the feeling of security that comes with a teachers one-on-one attention, Thiel said.

Often it comes down to social-emotional concerns.

Early childhood support coordinator re-emphasizes importance of social-emotional learning

One tenet of the early childhood profession is behavior is a form of communication.

It takes teaching for children to develop social-emotional skills like how to express their needs and feelings in healthy ways, to share, to take turns, to problem solve, to consider others feelings and more; they arent born with these skills. Without these skills, or while learning them, children may struggle with behavior challenges.

Take a case Thiel recently worked on with Lake Edge Learning Center in Neenah, for example. One child had a hard time with transitions  something not out of the ordinary for young children getting used to new routines. Hed get overwhelmed and have a hard time expressing himself. Frustration arose when others didnt understand what he was trying to communicate. In not knowing how to regulate that emotion, he started unsafe behaviors like hitting and kicking his teacher, throwing things and trying to run away.

You can tell that this child doesnt want to feel this way; you can tell that immediately, said Tikalsky, the centers program director.

When Thiel consults on behavioral challenges, her first step is to observe the child in the classroom. She talks with the child care program about what interventions theyve tried, and what works and what doesnt. Then, she and the program come up with new strategies, sometimes enlisting the help of the other early childhood experts at CCR&R, and then work together to implement them. When necessary, these strategies are tweaked.

In the case of the child at Lake Edge Learning Center, Thiel recommended showing the child visuals to solidify what behavior is expected and safe. She also used stories to help the child learn social skills and self-regulation. Thiel gave his classroom suggestions to improve their safe space, a spot where children can practice self-regulation thats calming, is away from the rest of the children in the classroom.

With Thiels help, the child is much better at communicating his feelings in a healthy way, and de-escalating when he gets overwhelmed. The center was able to share tips with the family to build on these skills at home, Tikalsky said.

Thiel said her associate's degree in early childhood education, experience as a child care teacher and parent, and trainings in social-emotional competence like Conscious Discipline and the Pyramid Model allow her to dive deep into such interventions.

We talk so much about 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds learning their ABCs and 1-2-3s, and all of that is great, but none of that does any good if they cant sit still or regulate their emotions, Hall said. So it has to start at the bottom, and thats where Emily comes in.

Related: What is 'Conscious Discipline,' and how can it help students?

Related: Fox Valley's young children are learning mindfulness through the Kindness Curriculum. But what is it?

Supporting child care programs, supporting families

Emily Thiel, early childhood support coordinator, often works with Lake Edge Learning Center in Neenah to help the child care navigate challenging behaviors. Much of the work she does focuses on social-emotional development.

Suspensions and expulsions from child care can have difficult outcomes for children and their families; some effects can extend well beyond the early years.

When a child is suspended or expelled, their family is left to scramble to find child care elsewhere  and given the expansive waitlists at many Fox Valley programs, this is no easy feat.

Its always tough on the families because if parents dont have care, then they cant work, and then it just goes on and on from there, Thiel said. If they cant work, they cant provide food, and obviously thats not good, either.

Thiel explained young children thrive on safety and security; bouncing from one child care to the next is the antithesis of this. It could even affect their future outcomes, such as academic success.

By providing a fresh set of eyes, Thiel hopes to quell challenging behaviors before a suspension or expulsion becomes necessary. In the heat of the moment  being punched, yelled at or dodging toys thrown by a child  it can be hard for any adult to keep their composure, let alone problem solve.

Lake Edge Learning Center at 1511 Nicolet Blvd. on Thursday, April 11, 2024 in Neenah, Wis. Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

And considering the average wage of a Wisconsin child care provider was $12.66 per hour in 2022 and many programs cannot offer benefits, theres not much incentive to stay.

Everybody is short staffed, overworked and overstressed, Thiel said. I think positions like mine  where I can go in, be the calm that they need and really put the emotions aside to think through it  definitely helps teachers and and even directors decompress.

More: Pandemic, aftermath add more stress to Wisconsin early childhood teachers' mental health

By extension, supporting child care programs also bolsters children and families. Not only does Thiel help to keep children in care, she also points families to a plethora of resources in the community, including help with developmental concerns, questions about the state child care subsidy program and assistance for those experiencing trauma. Once a week, Thiel visits LEAVEN Fox Cities to help families in finding and affording child care.

What Emily does helps the children, but just as importantly, it helps teachers learn skills, increase their toolbox and essentially retain them in the field of early childhood, Hall said.

The early childhood support coordinator serves Outagamie, Calumet, Waupaca, Winnebago and Green Lake counties. For more information, call CCR&R Inc. at 920-886-1211.

Related: These Wisconsin programs are cracking the code on lowering preschool suspensions, expulsions

More: Where to find help for young child behavioral challenges in Wisconsin

Madison Lammert covers child care and early education across Wisconsin as a Report for America corps member based at The Appleton Post-Crescent. To contact her, email mlammert@gannett.com or call 920-993-7108. Please consider supporting journalism that informs our democracy with a tax-deductible gift to Report for America by visiting postcrescent.com/RFA.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Kimberly nonprofit steps in to reduce child care expulsions
Curious cat cant handle the stress of Pennsylvania shelter. He needs home to roam

When Murphy first arrived at a Pennsylvania shelter, he appeared to be friendly and curious.

As time went on, shelter life took a toll on the 5-year-old cat. He went from constantly seeking attention from people to a cautious and nervous cat, the Humane Society of Cambria County said in an April 11 Facebook post.

Murphys personality is not thriving as well as others do here at the shelter, according to the post. Unfortunately, it has taken a toll on his emotions and is causing Murphy to not be the cat he once was.

The shelter says Murphy needs a home where he can roam free as soon as possible.

Though hes become more shy, the shelter believes Murphy will warm up to a new family once hes in a home.

When he knows that youre here to give him love and affection, he warms up quick and will be purring his way into your heart, the shelter said.

Murphy seems to be curious of other cats at the shelter and doesnt seem to mind other cats, according to the shelter.

Cambria County is about an 80-mile drive east from Pittsburgh.

40 dogs rescued from property after multiple animal cruelty calls, Ohio cops say

Polly the duck is missing her bill  but students with a 3D printer will change that

Dog with an adventurous past needs a home  but this escape artist needs a fence
Watch the full conversation between Andrew Kwon and Deputy Editor Ana Colon on The Fashionista Network.

Andrew Kwon originally enrolled at New York City's Parsons School of Design as an architecture student  but he always knew fashion would be a part of his future.

"I did architecture because I was I think a little afraid of the stigmas of what fashion came with, especially growing up in a lot of suburbs, and I didn't want to be called any names or be judged in any way," he told Ana Colon live on The Fashionista Network. (Watch it here!)

But even in a different department, Kwon still found a way to connect his work to fashion. (He especially admired Peter Marino, who has designed boutiques for Dior, Fendi and Louis Vuitton.) Eventually, though, he pivoted to fashion design  and he credits internships at Marchesa and Vera Wang for sparking an interest in bridal and eveningwear, specifically, as he "really got to have a lot of [his] hands put into some of the works for their most beautiful collections."

When it came time to launch his eponymous business during the pandemic, Kwon knew having a strong, strategic business plan was key. He released his debut bridal collection in 2021, on Valentine's Day, on Instagram, and got early support from Jessica Jung of Girls Generation and editor Edward Barsamian, plus some notable press coverage, including a Forbes profile.

"It was really a slow build [growing my brand through] word of mouth... women that were getting married or mothers of the bride and mothers of the groom that were looking for a dress or saw a dress that was in white, but asked if I could do this in color," he said. "That really took a full year to build this type of client base for myself." (That led him to grow the collection with eveningwear in September 2022.)

Photo: Courtesy of Andrew Kwon

"It's interesting because as a designer, you want to be as creative as you want to be  and you can be  but for some of your most creative pieces, [there are factors] you have to think of [like], 'How easy is that going to be to produce again? If there's crazy draping involved, you have to understand that not everyone is that standard model figure of a 24 [inch] waist,'" he continued. "You're selling to more people than just that standard model size, so you often have to question if that's going to be easily producible. You have to also understand if it's super creative and it looks beautiful on the runway and photos, is that gonna translate well onto the client that's really buying into it?"

Listening to his clients and being mindful of where the market is heading has informed Kwon's design approach. It's also allowed him to establish close relationships with his clients, and build a notable red-carpet presence, with stars such as Constance Wu, Lucy Liu and Regina Hall wearing his pieces.

Kwon recently closed New York Bridal Fashion Week Spring 2025. As he reflected on his latest collection, he highlighted how he was "able to dive into [his] cultural background and heritage," and go back to his design roots of making "pieces that felt different in bridal." Inspired by Greek goddesses and Old Hollywood glamour, the collection is filled with meticulous craftsmanship and experimental techniques that are equally stunning and high-impact  the effect he was going for.

"I'm a designer, but I'm also an entrepreneur," he said. "I think there was just something so fresh about this collection that made me really excited, and I'm just very proud  of the collection, of my team and the people that were there and able to support me."

This conversation was hosted on The Fashionista Network powered by interactive media platform Fireside, where viewers get the chance to participate and speak directly with industry figures. Learn more about The Fashionista Network here.

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If youve ever wondered whether you can bring your pet dog into the grocery store on the way back from the park, you might want to check Illinois state law and local ordinances first.

While service animals have public access rights to enter grocery stores, restaurants and other establishments, companion or pet dogs may only enter dog-friendly buildings.

Service animals are trained to perform a specific task to help mitigate a persons documented disability. Therapy dogs and emotional support animals play different roles and do not have the inherent right to enter places that are not dog-friendly, though therapy dogs may be invited to enter hospitals, schools or other locations to volunteer.

Heres what to know about Illinois state law and Belleville ordinances concerning pet dogs in public places.

What does Illinois state law say?

Municipalities with at least 1 million residents can enact ordinances to allow dogs in outdoor dining areas, according to Illinois law, but the statute does not include a relevant provision for smaller cities. The ordinance must meet certain requirements and comply with food sanitation laws.

State law continues to say no companion dog shall be present in the interior of any restaurant or in any area where food is prepared. The law does not specify whether dogs are allowed in grocery stores that do not have food preparation areas.

Missouri state law differs, and the St. Louis area has a cafe that allows dogs inside, as well as a number of dog-friendly bars.

Restaurant owners may be able to obtain a permit to allow dogs and charge a fee for dog entry in Illinois, and localities may also enact their own ordinances pertaining to dogs in public places.

Who better to accompany you on your summer adventures than "a man's best friend"? Check out our latest blog for dog-friendly restaurants and breweries in Madison County, featuring Alton, Collinsville, and Edwardsville, Illinois: https://t.co/V510FCE1oR pic.twitter.com/igVPl32wdG  The Massey Team BHHS (@TheMasseyTeam) June 22, 2023

The city of Belleville does not have a specific ordinance about dogs in restaurants or grocery stores, but does have one regulating dogs in other places.

Pets or other animals shall not be allowed in the confines of any city approved public event, including, but not limited to, school picnics, parades, sidewalk fairs, organized events and activities scheduled on the public square/downtown area, open to the public, the Belleville municipal code says. The following types of animals are excluded from this section: seeing eye dogs and other working animals; animals participating in the public event; animals approved by the sponsoring group.

Violation of the Belleville ordinance is considered a petty offense.

Even if your municipality doesnt address the subject of pets in grocery stores, you may want to call ahead and check with individual businesses before coming in with your companion dog. Many grocery stores, including Walmart, Aldi, Trader Joes, Schnucks and others have policies prohibiting dogs that are not service animals.
The self-determination law is one of several social reforms that the German government has pledged - Isabella Finholdt/NurPhoto/Getty Images

German lawmakers have approved a law that will allow children as young as 14 to change their gender at a register office without any medical evaluation.

The self-determination law is one of several social reforms that Chancellor Olaf Scholzs liberal-leaning coalition government pledged when it took office in late 2021, is set to take effect on Nov 1.

Mr Scholz said on social media: We show respect to trans, intersex and non-binary people  without taking anything away from others. This is how we continue to drive the modernisation of our country. This includes recognising realities of life and making them possible by law.

Germany, the European Unions most populous nation, follows several other countries in making the change. Parliaments lower house, the Bundestag, approved it by 374 votes to 251 with 11 abstentions.

The German legislation will allow adults to change their first name and legal gender at register offices without further formalities. They will have to notify the office three months before making the change.

The rules will allow minors aged 14 and older to change their name and legal gender with approval from their parents or guardians; if they dont agree, teenagers could ask a family court to overrule them.

In the case of children younger than 14, parents or guardians would have to make register office applications on their behalf.

The current transsexual law, which dates back four decades, requires individuals who want to change gender on official documents to first obtain assessments from two experts sufficiently familiar with the particular problems of transsexualism and then a court decision.

Since that law was drawn up, Germanys top court has struck down other provisions that required transgender people to be divorced and sterilised, and to undergo gender-transition surgery.

Sven Lehmann, the government's commissioner for LGBT issues. said 'people want to be recognised as they are' - CHRISTOPH SOEDER/POOL/AF/Getty Images

For over 40 years, the transsexual law has caused a lot of suffering ... and only because people want to be recognised as they are, Sven Lehmann, the governments commissioner for LGBT issues, told lawmakers. And today we are finally putting an end to this.

The legislation focuses on individuals legal identities. It does not involve any revisions to Germanys rules for gender-transition surgery.

After a formal change of name and gender takes effect, no further changes would be allowed for a year. The legislation provides for operators of, for example, gyms and changing rooms for women to continue to decide who has access.

Dividing society

The mainstream conservative opposition faulted the legislation for what it described as a lack of safeguards against abuse and a lack of protection for young people. Susanne Hierl, a Conservative lawmaker, complained that the government is ignoring the justified concerns of many women and girls.

You want to satisfy a loud but very small group and, in doing so, are dividing society, Ms Hierl said.

Martin Reichardt of the hard-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), criticised what he called ideological nonsense.

Marco Buschmann, the justice minister, said that there are numerous precautions against possibilities of abuse, however improbable they may be. He insisted that the law takes into account the interests of the whole of society and said much less will change with this law than some say.

Among others, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Spain already have similar legislation.

Nyke Slawik, a German Green MP, said 'trans people repeatedly experience our dignity being made a matter for negotiation'

Nyke Slawik, a transgender woman elected to parliament in 2021 for the Greens, one of the governing parties, recounted her experience of going through the current system a decade ago. She said she had had enough of being asked is that your brothers ID? when she had to identify herself.

Two years, many conversations with experts and one district court process later, it was done  the name change went through, and I was nearly 2,000 poorer, she told lawmakers.

As trans people, we repeatedly experience our dignity being made a matter for negotiation.

In Britain the Scottish parliament in 2022 passed a bill that would allow people aged 16 or older to change the gender designation on identity documents by self-declaration. That was vetoed by the British Government, a decision that Scotlands highest civil court upheld in December.

In other socially liberal reforms, Mr Scholzs government has legalised the possession of limited amounts of cannabis; eased the rules on gaining German citizenship and ended restrictions on holding dual citizenship; and ended a ban on doctors advertising abortion services. Same-sex marriage was already legalised in 2017.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
In a telephone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte announced that his country would provide Ukraine with another 400 million. The assistance is in addition to the commitments under the bilateral security agreement between Ukraine and the Netherlands.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote about this on Telegram. The President also said what the money will be used for.

According to the head of state, one billion euros have been allocated for military assistance to Ukraine, and 400 million euros will be used to rebuild the country.

Zelenskyy thanked Rutte and the Dutch people for their help, emphasizing that this is an exemplary example of support for Ukraine.

The President also said that he had discussed with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands joint work with partners to speed up the supply of air defense systems, artillery shells, and ammunition to Ukraine.

"I thanked for the effective Justice for Ukraine conference in The Hague and the launch of the Register of Damages as a result of it. I spoke about the preparation of the Peace Summit in Switzerland and invited the Netherlands to join. We also discussed the necessary efforts to ensure that as many countries as possible support this event," Zelenskyy added.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA:

The Dutch government has decided to transfer an additional 400 million to Ukraine in 2024 to protect it from a full-scale Russian invasion. In total, the country's budget for this year included about 2 billion for Ukraine.

The Netherlands will also provide Ukraine with 24 F-16 fighter jets. The Ukrainian military will receive them after completing all the necessary preparations.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
USA TODAY readers have spoken, and they have ranked Lambertville, among the "10Best small towns in the northeast."

Every week, USA Today invites a panel of industry experts to nominate their favorite points of interest and attractions across a wide range of categories.

The voting public then had four weeks to choose their small town in the Northeast.

Here's why Lambertville, in New Jersey just across the Delawre River from Bucks County, ranked among the region's best.

The Lambertville Inn just over the Delaware River in New Jersey greets visitors to the charming town.

Lambertville selected 10Best for quaint mix of charm, boutiques

Lambertville is charming, lively, and, according to USA Today's pollsters, also offers much to see and do for both residents and visitors. Visitors also have easy access across the river to New Hope, which also offers its own Main Street district.

"There are great restaurants (some with outdoor patios in summer), plenty of locally owned boutiques, designer clothing and home decor shops, a music store, and other fun places to enjoy," read the "10Best" description of Lambertville. "And dont miss a scenic stroll over the bridge to admire the waterfront views."

The bridge over the Delaware River connecting Lambertville and New Hope offers stunning views.

'Free' Bridge in Lambertville in rehab: Free bridge in New Hope-Lambertville gets rehab, 8-month detour. Here's the plan

Other Pennsylvania, NJ towns make USA Today's '10Best' small towns list

Overall, Lambertville ranked third on USA Today's '10Best' small towns list.

Here is the USA TODAY's "10Best small towns in the northeast" rankings:

10. Gettysburg

9. Tarrytown, NY

8. Morristown, NJ

7. Montpelier, VT

6. Saugerties, NY

5. Sewickley, PA

4. Mashpee, MA

3. Lambertville, NJ

2. Wellsboro, PA

1. Ohiopyle, PA

You can stand of the bridge over the Delaware River that connects Lambertville and New Hope and be in two states at one time.

This is at least the second such honor for Lambertville, as Forbes magazine recognized Lambertville as one of America's prettiest towns in 2013.

"Named the most picturesque small towns in New Jersey by USA Today and one of Americas 15 prettiest towns by Forbes, the City of Lambertville is a special place to visit and Lambertville is a great place to live," read portion of the Lambertville website. "With its eclectic Zagat-rated restaurants, thriving arts and antique community, one of a kind specialties shops and award winning hotels and B&Bs, Lambertville has become a year-round destination.

"Lambertville prides itself on its natural beauty and small-town friendlinessit continued. "Its well-maintained historic homes and commercial buildings, protected open space & parks and river views provide active recreational opportunities for adults and children."

Damon C. Williams covers trending and regional developments for PhillyBurbs.com. Support our journalism with a subscription.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Lambertville, NJ ranks high on USA Today's '10Best' list
"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

After attempting to transform the Wedding Cake House into an inn and events venue, the owners of the historic home have put it on the market, and Instagram rejoiced.

The Wedding Cake House in Kennebunk, Maine hit the market for $2.65 million at the end of March, listed by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates.

Not long after, it made the ranks of other real estate lovers' favorites on the Instagram account Zillow Gone Wild.

"There are so many cool pics of this it was hard to choose just 10!" the post reads. Thankfully, we have more space than the Instagram carousel. Here is what to know about the iconic Maine home:

More: 90% of US Airbnbs in the path of totality are booked. See some prime spots for eclipse views

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

From 'cottagecore' to 'weddingcakecore'

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Zillow Gone Wild fans gushed over the yellow and white house with ornate trim.

"Oooof literal cottagecore," the top comment reads, referring to the social media term for cozy, wholesome domestic vibes (or as Reddit describes it, "your grandma, but like, hip.")

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Someone else took it a step further, with the comment "weddingcakecore."

Others commented on the price, saying it must be relatively low because it is located in Maine. The home is located in York County, where the median home sales price is $428,640, according to previous USA TODAY reporting.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Owners tried to turn home into inn and event space

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Owners Hunt and Katie Edwards spent much of 2023 seeing their proposal to transform the place into an inn and venue through the towns planning process. The project received pushback from neighbors as well as the Select Board.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

One of the sources of pushback was a newly formed group called The Friends of the Wedding Cake House. The group hired an attorney, who attended public meetings and pressed the argument that an inn and venue at the site would generate too much noise, traffic, and safety concerns. They also said it would set a precedent for other private properties on Summer Street to turn commercial and would drastically alter the character of the neighborhood.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Edwards told the Planning Board they had spent hundreds of thousands of dollars restoring the Wedding Cake House and its property. He said he and his wife were seeking to establish an inn and venue to create a revenue stream to help them finish their renovations  specifically, the structures distinct trim and columns.

In January, the Select Board held off moving the project forward to voters. The couple decided to sell. Its a family decision that we made, Edwards said.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Wedding Cake House on the market for $2.65M

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

The eight-bedroom, seven-bathroom home sits on 2.23 acres and has more than 300 feet of frontage along the Kennebunk River, according to the online listing.

Built in 1825, the Wedding Cake House is among the most photographed properties in the state of Maine. The home is formally known as the George W. Bourne House and gets its nickname from its wedding cake-like appearance.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

According to local legend, Bourne, a sea captain and shipbuilder, had the house built to atone for having not taken his bride, Jane, on a proper honeymoon.

"Wedding Cake House" at 104 Summer Street in Kennebunk, Maine. The home is listed a $2.65 million by Nathan McCabe at Pack Maynard & Associates and was featured on Zillow Gone Wild.

Contributing: Sara Chernikoff, Ramon Padilla

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Photos: See inside the Wedding Cake House for sale at $2.65 million
The acclaimed chef uses balsamic in everything from cocktails to dessert.

Barnaby Draper

Turning treasured childhood memories into a business is so very Massimo Bottura. As a child in Modena, the Michelin-starred chef and his friends would collect fresh snow and top it with saba, a sweet and tangy grape syrup made much like the process for balsamic vinegar, but without the long aging process. According to Bottura, for Emilians, protecting the regions beloved culinary products  including Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, and balsamico  is a responsibility and a necessity shared by all. So when Bottura saw Villa Manodori, a beloved acetaia (a traditional site for the production of balsamic vinegar), fall into disrepair, he was determined to save it. It was a necessity to keep tradition alive and restore the old acetaia, Bottura told me during a recent interview at Casa Maria Luigia. In balsamico, the business perspective is to make it overnight and sell it the next day, [but what we do], aging it for 25 years  forget about business perspective, its about tradition.

Bottura spent his childhood in Modena, a city in Italys northern region of Emilia-Romagna, and the city hes helped put on the map as a major culinary destination thanks to his many restaurants including the lauded Osteria Francescana and his stunning bed and breakfast, Casa Maria Luigia. With a team of experts, Bottura spent 12 years transporting hundreds of delicate wooden barrels filled with aging balsamic from the old acetaia to his property at Casa Maria Luiga. The team carefully repaired each barrel, some almost 100 years old, so as not to lose any of the balsamico. Only when everything is repaired can we begin to play with the flavors, Bottura said during a recent tour of the acetaia, an experience I had with American Express By Invitation Only program.

Related: What Its Like to Have Dinner at Osteria Francescana

Bottura uses juniper and cherry wood casks to make balsamic with distinctly different flavor profiles; the juniper is grassy and verdant, the cherry sweet and fruity. Since the youngest mother casks (to which new vinegar is blended) are from the 1980s, every bottle of balsamic from Villa Manodori is at least 40 years old, and boasts a thick, syrupy texture and profound flavor. With such a superb product just steps away from his newest restaurant Al Gatto Verde, its no surprise that Bottura has delicious, unexpected uses for Modenas beloved balsamico  here are five to try out now.

Use balsamic in a marinade

At Al Gatto Verde, Bottura teamed up with Canadian chef Jessica Rosval to craft a menu highlighting cooking with smoke and fire. A standout dish called Short Ribs Forever is made from hefty beef short ribs that have been marinated in balsamic. The acid in the vinegar tenderizes the short ribs, and the earthy, fruity, and tart notes soak deep into the center of the meat. The combination of balsamico and American barbecue is natural, says Bottura, The blend of long cooking, sweetness, and acidity is classic. We use our cherry balsamic on baby back ribs, too. Balsamic adds depth of flavor to a marinade for any umami-rich food from mushrooms, steak, or pork chops.

Dress a fruit salad with balsamic

I love to use the balsamico aged in cherry wood in a beautiful fruit salad with raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries, says Bottura. He prefers the sweet notes of balsamic aged in cherry, chestnut, or mulberry wood to steer away from the more vegetal flavors sometimes imparted by aging in juniper or oak. Strawberries and balsamic are a classic combination, but adding a variety of fruits from melon to mango can play off different kinds of notes in the balsamic. You can even top the fruit salad with a bit of vanilla ice cream and a last drizzle of balsamico, Bottura said, smiling.

Use balsamic in a cocktail

The range of flavors present in balsamic vinegars makes it a versatile ingredient for mixing into cocktails. Bottura suggests adding a few drops of balsamic, especially one aged in savory juniper barrels, to a gin and tonic. This pairing works well because for a spirit to be labeled as gin, it must be made with juniper. Some gins are flavored solely with juniper, but others add other botanicals like lemon or whole spices like coriander or clove as well. The juniper-balsamic combination works with the aromatic notes in th gin and it also plays well with the herbaceous flavor from the tonic water. Looking for a bit of heat? Try balsamic vinegar in a piquant strawberry-chile shrub.

Related: How Massimo Bottura Turns Leftover Parmigiano Rinds Into Bouncy Noodles

Drizzle balsamic over Parmigiano

As the old school saying goes, what grows together goes together. This adage is most certainly true for the simple yet elegant combination of Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic. Perhaps the best way to appreciate aged balsamic is to simply take a chunk of Parmigiano Reggiano and drizzle a bit of vinegar on top. Its a classic combination that amplifies both ingredients.

Swirl balsamic into cheesecake

To take the pairing of balsamic and cheese a step further, Bottura adds a swirl of aged balsamic to the top of the cheesecake at Al Gatto Verde. The vinegar cuts through the sweet and creamy cake, adding welcome tang and zip. To achieve this effect at home, serve cheesecake with a drizzle of balsamic, or swirl it into the top of the cake before baking.



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Read the original article on Food & Wine.
British royal family member Princess Eugenie was joined by a bevy of high-profile guests during a conversation on the fashion industrys commitment to sustainability in London on Thursday. Among the attendees, Princess Nina made an appearance, posing for a photo alongside her distant cousin and designer Gabriela Hearst.

For the occasion, Princess Nina wore a turtleneck and wool pants by Hearst, channeling her own unique take on the quiet luxury aesthetic. She also carried a navy velvet clutch from the designers fashion label.

More from WWD

But who is Princess Nina of Greece and Denmark? And what is her relationship to European royals? Find out more about the businesswoman and socialite known as Nina Flohr.

Princess Nina, Gabriela Hearst and Princess Eugenie on April 11.

Princess Nina is the daughter of Thomas Flohr, who founded the airline company VistaJet in the early 2000s. Nina once served as the creative director of VistaJet prior to her marriage. Her mother is a founding editor of Russian Vogue and creative director of Faberge.

Ninas parents divorced when she was young, and she subsequently moved to London with her mother. As a young professional, Nina founded the luxury hotel Kisawa Sanctuary, for which she is also the creative director, and founded the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies, which focuses on East African marine ecosystems.

Princess Nina at a Memorial Service for King Constantine of the Hellenes at St. Sophias Greek Orthodox Cathedral on Feb. 28, 2024.

Princess Nina met Prince Philippos of Greece and Denmark sometime in 2018. Prince Philippos is the son of Constantine II of Greece and Anne-Marie of Denmark. He is also the godson of the late Princess Diana. That same year, the couple attended the royal wedding of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Princess Nina and Prince Philippos became engaged in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the royal couple was not able to have a large ceremony. They initially married in a civil ceremony in December 2020.

Princess Nina of Greece and Denmark and Prince Philippos of Greece and Denmark attend the Thanksgiving Service for King Constantine of the Hellenes at St Georges Chapel on Feb. 27, 2024, in Windsor.

Prince Philippos and Princess Eugenie are distant cousins. Princess Eugenie and her husband, along with sister Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mappelli Mozzi, attended Princess Nina and Prince Philippos wedding celebration in October 2021.

Narmina Marandi and Princess Nina of Greece and Denmark attend the Mrs Alice x Della Vite cocktail party on Nov. 28, 2023.

Nina often attends events such as the fashion sustainability panel, for which she joined Princess Eugenie. Shes also attended royal engagements and charity events.

WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 07: Katy Perry performs on stage during the Coronation Concert on May 07, 2023 in Windsor, England. The Windsor Castle Concert is part of the celebrations of the Coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, as King and Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the other Commonwealth realms that took place at Westminster Abbey yesterday. Performers include Take That, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, Paloma Faith, Olly Murs, Andrea Bocelli and Sir Bryn Terfel, Alexis Ffrench, Lang Lang & Nicole Scherzinger, Bette Midler, Tiwa Savage, Steve Winwood, Pete Tong and The Coronation Choir. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 07: Katy Perry performs on stage during the Coronation Concert on May 07, 2023 in Windsor, England. The Windsor Castle Concert is part of the celebrations of the Coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, as King and Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the other Commonwealth realms that took place at Westminster Abbey yesterday. Performers include Take That, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, Paloma Faith, Olly Murs, Andrea Bocelli and Sir Bryn Terfel, Alexis Ffrench, Lang Lang & Nicole Scherzinger, Bette Midler, Tiwa Savage, Steve Winwood, Pete Tong and The Coronation Choir. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 07: Katy Perry performs on stage during the Coronation Concert on May 07, 2023 in Windsor, England. The Windsor Castle Concert is part of the celebrations of the Coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, as King and Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the other Commonwealth realms that took place at Westminster Abbey yesterday. Performers include Take That, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, Paloma Faith, Olly Murs, Andrea Bocelli and Sir Bryn Terfel, Alexis Ffrench, Lang Lang & Nicole Scherzinger, Bette Midler, Tiwa Savage, Steve Winwood, Pete Tong and The Coronation Choir. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

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Paint Colors You Should Never Use In An Entryway, According To Designers

Plus, what they'd choose instead.

Brian Woodcock; Styling: Page Mullins

Your entryway is the first space that truly sets the tone of your home, so you wont want to hastily choose a paint color for the space. Instead, its best to be intentional with the hue you use for this area of the house. As it turns out, there are a few shades that youre better off avoiding, designers say. Below, they weigh in with their views on the entryway or foyer paint colors that they would never use while offering tips on what to select for the space instead.

Related: 4 Things Designers Want You To Keep Out Of Your Entryway

Anything Too Bold or Random

Entryways are the first impression of your home, and a wonderful place to make an impact, says Betsey Mosby, the founder of Betsey Mosby Interior Design in Jackson, Mississippi. While shes all for livening up this space, Mosby notes that its important the entryway connects to the rest of the home and thus advises staying away from making statements that arent repeated in other details. So save the unexpected burst of bright pink for the powder bath instead!

Zandy Gammons, the Raleigh, North Carolina-based founder of Miretta Interiors, agrees that anything ultra loud and bold just isnt right for the entryway. We like to use colors that have depth that ground the space, generally embracing jewel and earth tones, she explains.

If youre still craving a bit of vibrance, note that you can achieve this through the accessories you select. Adding color through artwork, styling, and furnishings can infuse personality and warmth into the foyer, ensuring it feels inviting and sets the tone for the rest of the home, explains Jessicah Kolter, the founder of Jessicah Kolter Interior Design in Houston, Texas.

Photo: Eric Piasecki, Styling by Heather Chadduck Hillegas

Whites and Creams

While going bold in the foyer isnt something designers advise, there is such a thing as taking too plain of a route. Rather than opting for basic white, go a bit more dramatic. By default, most homeowners select white or cream, but the entry is where you create the mood entering the home, and Id love to see it make a statement, suggests Traci Connell, the founder of Traci Connell Interiors in Dallas, Texas. She recommends trying an aubergine or black.

Jessica Stambaugh, the founder of Jessica Stambaugh Interiors in Nashville, Tennessee, expresses similar views. White is fabulous in other areas, but too stark to feel welcoming, she comments. Creating some progression with a color or texture as the backdrop feels more inviting, expressive, and fun.

When going with a moodier color, youll of course want to keep lighting top of mind. Dark colors can add drama and sophistication in larger spaces with ample natural lighting but will make a smaller, poorly lit foyer feel cramped and closed off, says Margie Kaercher, the founder of Hearth & Honey Homes in Tampa, Florida.

Related: How Southern Designers Determine What Color To Paint A Room

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Read the original article on Southern Living.
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Princess Eugenie donned pointed-toe suede pumps by Gianvito Rossi for a reception and panel discussion on the fashion industrys commitment to sustainability in London on Thursday.

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Princess Eugenie wears pointy suede Gianvito Rossi pumps in Praline. Getty Images

The princess has a history of wearing Gianvito Rossi pumps. She donned the same style in a lighter beige hue dubbed Bisque to the wedding of a friend last year. Eugenie also wore Gianvito Rossis Linda block-heel pumps featuring a rounded toe in classic black suede at Queen Elizabeth IIs vigil on Sept. 27, 2022. In addition to the Italian brand, Princess Eugenie has also proven herself to be a fan of luxury footwear brands like Jimmy Choo and Sarah Flint, as well as London-based LK Bennett and Kurt Geiger.

Princess Eugenie of York attends a reception and panel discussion on the fashion industrys commitment to sustainability in London, England on April 11, 2024. Getty Images

The sustainability-focused fashion event was jointly organized by Jane Hartley, the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, and Hearst. It took place at the residence of the American ambassador.

Jane D. Hartley, U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, and Princess Eugenie at a reception and panel discussion on the fashion industrys commitment to sustainability in London, England on April 11, 2024. Getty Images

About the Shoes

The British royal family member wore Gianvito Rossis Gianvito suede high heels in Praline, a light brown colorway. The pointy stiletto style is offered in multiple height options, including 85mm and 100mm. The sleek slip-on heels, which also come in black, are available online at luxury retailers like BergdorfGoodman.com, retailing for $775.

Gianvito 85 Suede Point-Toe High-Heel Pumps, pointy pumps, suede pumps, shoes, stilettos, gianvito rossi shoes, high heels

$795

Buy Now at net-a-porter

About Gianvito Rossi

The eponymous Italian brand launched in 2006 and debuted its first collection of womens shoes at Milan Fashion Week in 2007. Gianvito Rossi is the son of Sergio Rossi, who founded his legendary namesake shoe brand in 1951. Following a successful introduction, Gianvito Rossi went on to become one of the most popular luxury footwear brands on the market, with a large celebrity following embracing his minimalist designs. Olivia Wilde, Issa Rae, Khloe Kardashian, Lea Michele and Dakota Fanning have all worn Gianvito Rossis shoes recently. Last summer, it was announced that Luxury conglomerate Richemont had acquired a controlling stake in Gianvito Rossi.

Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge

Princess Eugenies Royal Wedding

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Ruth-Ann Thorn, a citizen of the Rincon Band of Luiseno/ Payomkawichum Indians in Southern California, owns several art galleries and now, a steadily growing beauty business. She currently resides in Paloma Valley where her family has lived since time immemorial. In 2018, she moved back to the reservation to take care of her father, and while there, found her passion for reconnecting with her roots and serving her people.

Thorn's brand, N8iv Beauty, is the first skincare brand created by a Native woman and the first to be infused with acorn oil sourced from Tribal land. The brand utilizes traditional plant medicine in its skincare line and aims to propel Indigenous practices and knowledge to the forefront of the global beauty industry. Thorne uses knowledge gifted to her by her Tribal Elders, who introduced her to traditional botanicals and natural ingredients and the power of the acorn.



Thorn recently talked to Native News Online about what inspired her to start N8iv Beauty, how she incorporates cultural teachings and values into the brand, and her plans to grow it into a $100 million beauty industry powerhouse.

What inspired you to start N8iv Beauty?

My daughter. I think she was about 14 years old, and we went to Sephora to look for makeup. I am a big fan of Korean skincare, so I went to my Korean section, and she asked me Hey, Mom, where's the Native American section? And that is what spurred my thought on the importance of bringing a Native American brand to market within the trillion dollar beauty industry.

As the brand developed, I realized that it's also about giving our people an opportunity to share our culture through a brand like this. I think it's a safe space when you think about beauty. I mean, we've been utilizing beautification rituals since time immemorial. Even though Hollywood has always painted us as savages, just a step above the caveman in a lot of ways, or objectifying women, if you really look at the history of who we are as Native people, taking care of ourselves has been a really important part of who we are. And we took care of ourselves with plant medicine.

Before colonization happened, we were a country of around 100 million people who bartered and traded with people from all over the world. We were sharing things because we were a country before the colonies ever came. We were bartering with our plant medicine with you know, our arts. With various things, buffalo hide, you name it, peacefully trading. I've had Native people say, Well, why are you sharing that with people? Well, because we've always shared. That's our culture. And a lot of times I think we don't even know our own history.

N8iv Beautys Starlight Regenerative Acorn Oil Serum. (photo/n8ivbeauty.com)

N8iv Beautys Starlight Regenerative Acorn Oil Serum. (photo/n8ivbeauty.com)How do you incorporate your cultural teachings into the daily running of the brand?

I think it starts with the logo itself. Initially, the name of the company was called Native American Beauty, but then the more I thought about it, I didn't really feel like America has anything to do with who we are, so I dropped that. I really wanted to come to market with something that was a little bit more modern.

As I was studying our Luiseno Payomkawichum culture, I started finding out about the fact that I always knew we were kind of a nomadic people as hunter-gatherers, but then a good friend of mine who's an anthropologist, she said, We have an eight-season calendar that we follow. And I had seen Native spelled with an eight, and I thought, that's perfect. We're going to change the name to N8iv Beauty, and the eight will represent the eight-season calendar that we follow as hunter-gatherers, and then the star is because, in our creation story, we are the star people. We come from the Milky Way in our creation story. So it starts with our logo, we're able to share a culture just directly through our logo, and then it expands into our plant medicine.

I'm really trying to bring a philosophy across to the end user of the difference between Native culture, our views on beauty, and the colonial culture, which I call the pyramid scheme, which is still alive and well today. When the colonies came over, they brought the monarchy. When you think about the Victorian era or these various eras, you think about the Kardashian era. You've got two components that really drive beauty: wealth and fame. If you're wealthy, and you're famous, you're going to set the beauty trends. From the colonial viewpoint, some people are more valuable than other people.

Within a Tribe, we had a round or a flat leadership style as a circle. Every single person within that tribe was equally valuable. What I'm trying to say with N8iv Beauty is that every single person is one of a kind. We take that from nature. There are no two leaves on a tree that are exact. There are no two animals with the same animal print. Everything in nature is like a snowflake. Everything is completely unique. I want to bring across the idea that every single person who uses our product should look in the mirror and celebrate their uniqueness; that there will never ever be another one of them.

What do you want those who use N8iv Beauty skincare to know?

It's natural and organic. We're utilizing plant medicines that have been used to heal the skin for 1000s of years, specifically from my culture here on the West Coast. But My goal is to go to other places across Turtle Island and meet with other Indigenous people like me from other tribes because we all have different plants that we utilize.

Right now, I'm working with the Hopi tribe, and I'm creating a blue corn and pumpkin peel mask, that will really highlight their culture because we don't have Blue Corn here on the West Coast. I feel like the product line will continue to grow over time. Based on the fact that we have 537 federally recognized tribes, there's a lot of material to cover.

Do you hope to see your brand one day in stores like Sephora and Ulta and other big stores?

We just got our first contract with Nordstrom, so it's a good place to start. My goal is to build a $100 million company and to go global with this. This is not about the money. But about showing the world that even though yes, we are connected with the Earth, don't be mistaken. We've been savvy business people since the inception. We have done business with people from all over the world, and we are very strong at business. I want to create the space so that maybe I'm first in, but I'm hoping the next generation takes over beauty within who we are as Native people. I'm opening it up, but I'm hoping lots will follow.

What advice would you give to any aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs?

If you want to go into business, first of all, figure out what you want to do, and where your passions lie, and then go work for somebody who's doing that. At least get the principles. I think getting an education and an MBA are fantastic things, but they aren't necessarily what is going to propel you to face the business world. You've got to get into the real day-to-day. School is really a great informational space, but you can't learn until you get into the pool and start swimming. So go work for somebody; learn off of somebody else's dime if at all possible. Get an understanding of what the lane is that you're going to go into and then be ready to work.

A popular question when it comes to Native businesses is, Can non-Natives use it too?

I think everybody can use it. We're creating a brand that's also unisex, but I would say the main thing is going back to our history. We bartered and traded with people from all over the world for thousands of years, and this is something that I think is really important for us as Native people. We tend to keep ourselves within our communities, we tend to sell our products at powwows. We tend not to venture into the mainstream, and a lot of times, not everybody but a lot of people almost feel like we're not being sacred if we are sharing our secrets with the world, but my feeling is that if you look at what we did historically, we traded with people, we traded our baskets, we traded our jewelry, our plant medicine, tobacco, and we exchanged it for other goods and things that we utilize in innovation.

We are still reeling from the largest genocide the world has seen in the last 300 years, our nervous system has been inherited by our ancestors, and we have a lot of anxiety and a lot of fear. We need to start to venture off the reservations and make a statement that we're still here, that we are a modern, sophisticated group of people, like we've always been.

I had CVS reach out to me. They're interested in N8iv Beauty. They want me to create something that's a little bit more price point friendly and, in other words, cheap. I decided that we've been Dollar Store people for way too long. We were one of the richest groups of people in the world. We had all of these resources at our fingertips, and we took care of them. I want to build a brand that shows the luxury people that we are because that's what we are. We're not Dollar Store people.

Our time is now to build something and to build this awareness that we're here. We're resilient, we're smart. We've always been those people. So why not now step out and make that statement because there's just not that many of us still around. And if we're not going to do it now, when are we going to do it?





About the Author: "Neely Bardwell (descendant of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indian) is a staff reporter for Native News Online. Bardwell is also a student at Michigan State University where she is majoring in policy and minoring in Native American studies. "

Contact: neely@nativenewsonline.net
Queen Sofia Is Hospitalized, But Her Son King Felipe Says "She Is Very Well"

Queen Sofia Is Hospitalized, But Her Son King Felipe Says "She Is Very Well"

Queen Sofia is currently in the hospital, but her son King Felipe says she is doing well.

The 85-year-old former queen of Spain was admitted to a hospital in Madrid, the Ruber International Clinic, on Tuesday evening for a urinary tract infection. On Wednesday, Felipe visited his mother, driving himself to the hospital.

Carlos Alvarez - Getty Images

As he left, Felipe gave an update to media who had gathered outside the hospital, telling them, per Hola!, "She is very well, cheerful and eager to be discharged and return [home] as soon as possible." Felipe's sister, Infanta Elena, was also pictured visiting their mother in the hospital. Yesterday, Felipe visited again, joined by Queen Letizia, sharing the update that his mother wants to be discharged but he doesn't know when exactly.

Queen Sofia's last public appearance was just a day before she was hospitalized, when she attended a funeral mass in honor of her nephew, Fernando Gomez-Acebo, who passed away on March 1 at the age of 49. And, this past weekend, she was at the wedding of the Mayor of Madrid, Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida, and Teresa Urquijo, the granddaughter of Princess Teresa of Bourbon-Two Sicilies,

Europa Press Entertainment - Getty Images

Also in attendance at the funeral mass on Monday was Sofia's husband, former King Juan Carlos. Since 2020, the former Spanish king has been living in self-imposed exile in the United Arab Emirates, but has traveled back to Spain on numerous occasions. Queen Sofia remained living in Spain.

Carlos Alvarez - Getty Images

Juan Carlos and Sofia married in 1962, and have three children: Infanta Elena, Infanta Cristina, and King Felipe VI.

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Ben and Brittany Essig stand with their rescued pups Bourbon, left, and Pabst in front of the roaster in their coffee business Rescued Roasters, which donates 10% of its profits to animal rescue organizations.

While pursuing their passion to help animals, Brittany and Ben Essig adopted two rescue pups: Pabst and Bourbon. Then they decided to dream bigger.

First, Ben turned his coffee roasting hobby into a side hustle. The couple founded Rescued Roasters, donating 10% of profits to local animal rescue organizations.

Ben always dreamed of owning a coffee shop. He didnt expect to have a popcorn shop as part of the deal, but thats just how it happened.

In December 2022, the couple became owners of Knights Gourmet Popcorn, 4435 W. Forest Home Ave. The popcorn company has been in the Milwaukee area since 1952, and in the Jackson Park neighborhood for decades. Now the space is also home to the Essigs' other business: Rescued Roasters.

After months of renovations, this month they will officially open the Rescued Roasters coffee shop. It will share space with the Knights Gourmet Popcorn, which continues with retail sales in the revamped space.

Over the last seven decades, Knights Gourmet Popcorn has had generations of fans for its popcorns and popcorn balls. The Essigs still hand make the flavored popcorns with the same recipes. Brittany works in the shop daily and heard from numerous customers who loved the popcorn balls. When they found the recipe last year, they brought those back as well. Now the former teacher works to ensure theyre available in the shop every week.

For now, Ben retains an outside job in the medical field, roasting coffee for the Rescued Roasters label weekly.

Customers can recommend a local rescue to receive donations by going to rescuedroasters.com and clicking the Rescue of the Month link. Knights Gourmet Popcorn and Rescued Roasters are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Hours will be extended, with doors opening earlier, when the coffee bar officially opens later this month.

Ben and Brittany recently talked with the Journal Sentinel about their businesses.

Ben and Brittany Essig will open their Rescued Roasters coffee shop in the same building as their Knight Popcorn business in Milwaukee's Jackson Park neighborhood in April.

This barista had a brewing dream

Ben: While in high school and college, I was a barista. It was my first job, and I loved everything about coffee. It was always my dream to have a coffee shop. Fast forward to just before the pandemic. My wife bought me a home coffee roaster. I started roasting at home and got pretty good at it. ... Fast forward to late 2021. We live in the Jackson Park neighborhood, where we live to this day. We always wished there was a coffee shop in our neighborhood. There was nothing. Well, a Starbucks up the road, and a Dunkin, but...

Brittany: We wanted a neighborhood coffee shop.

How popcorn and coffee became their perfect pairing

Ben: I started getting good at roasting coffee. "Lets do a shop ourselves." We got serious about it and started to look for buildings in the area. There was nothing. Then we were talking with the alderman, who would hear that people wanted a coffee shop in the area. ... Our real estate agent showed us a building that didnt work, but he also happened to be the owner of Knights Popcorn. He said ,You could lease space in the building to roast coffee. This was summer 2022. Eventually it was, "Do you want to buy the business?" ... We started roasting in September.

Brittany: In December 2022 we bought the (popcorn) business.

Ben: Im originally from Oak Creek, went to Oak Creek High School and was a Knight. But Knights Gourmet Popcorn started in 1952, over on 9th and Mitchell, I believe. The Knight family started the business. From what we were told, they had a walk-up window at a house that was converted to a business. The business grew and changed hands over the years. Our understanding is it moved to this location about 30 years ago.

Knights Gourmet Popcorn opened in 1952 and moved into its current location at 4435 W. Forest Home Ave. in the '90s. In April, owners Ben and Brittany Essig will open a coffee shop, Rescued Roasters, inside the business.

The secret to success includes popping daily (and real cheese)

Brittany: Knights started with the classics. Were really well known for our gourmet white, but we do have 25 other flavors. Our big sellers include our double cheddar cheese. We do melt real cheese and mix it in small batches, and some we mix with caramel corn to make Chicago mix. We do our white popcorn for the Milwaukee mix. Then we have crazy kettle corns like cherry, blue raspberry, churro, and fun flavors like dill pickle, cajun, bacon cheddar, white cheddar cheese. All of our popcorns are popped daily, and our cheese is all hand mixed with melted cheese and butter.

Ben: It was important to keep the flavors and style of popping the same. Everything that was being done, we continue. We are hand popping every day. Then our popcorn gets put through a de-seeder to pull out the unpopped kernels. Then we hand bag, hand label. This is a very old-school, mom-and-pop business we strive to keep going.

They brought back this customer favorite

Brittany: We brought back the old popcorn ball recipe. Theyd gotten rid of them for a while. We found the old recipe, so we brought it back before the holidays. That has been booming. We actually get calls to see how many are on the shelf at a time. There is usually one day of the week where I am forming popcorn balls.

They can never run out of this popcorn

Brittany: The one flavor we have to keep on the shelves is the double cheddar cheese. It is the No. 1 seller. Personally one of my favorites is the churro kettle corn. It tastes like Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

How animal rescue became part of their business

Brittany: When we got our house, the first thing we did was rescue a dog. We put it an an application through Woof Gang Rescue. We wanted to give her a very Milwaukee name, so we called her Pabst. As soon as we got her, we started to learn more about what rescues do. We wanted to do what we could to help.

Rescued Roasters, we donate 10% of the sales every month. We had a local artist do a portrait of Pabst. She is the model for our Good Girl. That is Guatemalan single-origin beans, female-owned.

Ben and Brittany Essig's dog Bourbon sits outside their business, Knights Gourmet Popcorn and Rescued Roasters, 4435 W. Forest Home Ave.

Ben: We thought we were doing such a good job being dog parents, we thought wed get another dog we saw on Facebook for months, a blue heeler stray from Texas. Thats Bourbon. To honor Bourbon, we have our Dingo Blend  smokey, black and caramel notes. That's how we incorporated our animals, using them as inspiration and naming.

Brittany: Our other roast is Tuxedo Cat, in honor of a cat I had for 20 years, Boots. We have worked with cat rescues as well. Tuxedo is our medium dark roast.

The basics behind the brew

Brittany: Right now we have whole bean and ground. If you need to have it ground for an espresso machine, we can do that. We are also at the Menomonee Falls winter market. This summer we will be at the VA Farmers Market, the Jackson Park Farmers Market (which opens June 13) and were hoping to be at South Shore as well. Those are the three we were at last year. You can also order our product online. You can find the popcorn there, too.

Ben: I roast all the coffee myself. We only source coffee through ethical and fair trade practices, and we only select coffee that is high grade on a coffee grading scale. It is all small batch, roasting for what we can sell that week, so the coffee is the freshest you can get.

Rescued Roasters donates 10% of its profits to animal rescue organizations.

This is about more than coffee and popcorn

Ben: This was my dream, making a coffee shop a reality. To just be a coffee shop, thats great, but what else can we do? Thats how we got into the animal rescue world.

Were obviously for profit, but the money we make, it is important we give back to those rescues who can do great things. We have two dogs. We learned that is our maximum, even though we want to rescue many more. Rescued Roasters, thats our way to continue to help the rescues in the area and help promote them and help the animals in need of a home.

Brittany: We own the building. Some of our staff members have been here through other owners. Were in the process of making our dreams come true, having our own neighborhood coffee shop. Since about October, we have been re-imagining the space in the storefront. The whole front was just a popcorn shop with shelves. We are adding a coffee bar, public restroom, one side with the cafe with about 19 seats, and then the popcorn market. We have things in the works so this can become a neighborhood destination.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Rescued Roasters brings coffee and a good cause to Jackson Park
Sniff a $5K perfume set, explore Mujis new flagship and other NYC events this week

Louis Vuitton's new fragrance bible and the West Village's hottest Italian spinoff are among the luxurious debuts on our Alexa calendar this week.

Each week, Alexa is rounding up the buzziest fashion drops, hotel openings, restaurant debuts and celeb-studded cultural happenings in NYC.

Its our curated guide to the very best things to see, shop, taste and experience around the city.

Whats making our luxury list this week?

Mujis minimalism maximizes in Midtown, Don Angies sister restaurant debuts just down the block, and Yoko Ono drops an artsy athleisure collab with Pangaia.

MORE IS MORE: Mujis Fifth Avenue flagship expands

Theres more room to shop Mujis cult-favorite clothing and home goods at the Japanese retailers newly renovated Fifth Avenue space. Courtesy of Muji

A significant renovation has added 3,500 square feet to the Japanese retailers already substantial Fifth Avenue store, creating an epic shopping destination for minimalists in the process.

The newness includes a Muji Books area and a plethora of merch perfect for small-space living, including from other aesthetically aligned brands.

Browse personal-care products from Public Goods, super-stylish small kitchen appliances from Balmuda and a selection of heatproof glassware from Japanese heritage brand Hario, before sampling Mujis latest sartorial offerings in warm-weather appropriate linen and hemp. 475 Fifth Ave.; Muji

Louis Vuitton has just released the fashionable tome A Perfume Atlas, along with a luxurious box set that includes all 45 essences featured in the book.

Louis Vuitton has just released A Perfume Atlas, a book that details the journey its master perfumer, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, takes in the creation of the brands tailored fragrances.

Readers can follow Belletruds global search for exceptional ingredients  from the Rose de Mai of Grasse to the oud Assam of Bangladesh and the bergamot of Calabria  learning the secrets of their harvest, extraction, distillation and blending.

Available in a choice of three different covers (Rose, Lemon and Jasmine) the atlas itself is sadly not an olfactory experience.

But a limited-edition boxed set of the book can be. I

ts packaged with 45 vials of raw essences for a first-hand (er, nose?) experience of all the ingredients covered in the book.

The limited-edition set is $5,000 at select Louis Vuitton stores (including in New York City); the book is $160. LouisVuitton

WAIT NOT: San Sabino restaurant opens in the West Village

Snag a seat at San Sabino, the West Villages newest hot spot for Italian cuisine from the chefs behind Don Angie. Alice Gao

If youve given up on ever snagging a reservation at Michelin-starred Don Angie, try its brand-new sibling San Sabino, which opened last month just down the block in the West Village.

Its helmed by wife and husband chefs Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli, and named for Scotts maternal grandfather (after the patron saint of Sanza in the Italian region of Campania).

The menu is heavy on handmade pastas and seafood, and includes tasty bites like Crab & Mortadella dip with Ritz crackers, Stuffed Mussels and the chefs take on (who knew?) Shrimp Parm, with three enormous head-on prawns in a sweet and sour Arrabbiata sauce with stracchino cheese. Delizioso! (Currently open for dinner only.) 113 Greenwich Ave.; SanSabinoNYC

Six decades on, fans of Yoko Onos Grapefruit can finally acquire custom merch adorned with advice from the instructional art book, courtesy of MoMAs Pangaia pop-up in Soho. Courtesy of MoMA

Sixty years ago, Yoko Ono wrote Grapefruit, a book of drawings and instructions for life that today is considered a work of conceptual art.

In honor of its anniversary, the sprightly 91-year-old Japanese artist has collaborated with Pangaia on a limited-edition capsule featuring selected written instructions from the book.

The work-from-home friendly pieces  a T-shirt, hoodie and tote bag  debuted yesterday at the Pangaia pop-up at MoMA Design Stores Soho location as well as online.

Pangaia fans can also shop a selection of the brands coordinating looks, available through May 21.

Fun fact: Grapefruit is still available for those curious to read the tome that inspired the collection. 81 Spring St.; MoMA Design Store

BLUE SWOON: Yves Klein exhibit at Levy Gorvy Dayan

Yves Klein and the Tangible World at the Levy Gorvy Dayan gallery includes 25 works  and the artists signature blue pigment. The Estate of Yves Klein c/o Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / ADAGP, Paris and courtesy of Levy Gorvy Dayan

The French artist whose name is to a certain shade of cobalt blue what Christian Louboutin is to red is finally getting his New York City due.

Yves Klein and the Tangible World opened yesterday at the Levy Gorvy Dayan gallery (through May 25, curated in collaboration with the Yves Klein Foundation). I

t features 25 works, many of which are exhibited here for the first time.

They include his body-trace paintings, fire paintings, sculptures and the Pure Pigment installation, featuring grains of his International Klein Bleu powdered pigment set in a frame on the floor. 19 E. 64th St., Levy Gorvy Dayan
Norway has received permission from the United States to transfer 22 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. However, not all of them are in good condition.

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This was reported by Nettavisen. According to journalists, Oslo is preparing to transfer aircraft engines, auxiliary materials, simulators, spare parts, and other relevant equipment to Kyiv after Washington's permission.

The media outlet writes that 12 Norwegian F-16s, which the state planned to sell to the American company Draken International under a contract signed in 2021, may be suitable for flight.

Nettavisen notes that the remaining fighters can be used for spare parts and repairs of other aircraft.

"The sale agreement with Draken International does not seem to be implemented, and the planes that were supposed to be used for training in the United States will instead be used to protect Ukraine's airspace," the publication writes.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Dutch Defense Minister Keesa Ollongren said earlier that her country plans to transfer only 24 F-16 fighters to Ukraine. The Ukrainian military will receive them after completing all the necessary training.

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Earlier it was reported that Ukraine would receive the first F-16 fighters in the first half of this year. The planes will arrive first from Denmark.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Cinque Terre is pronounced chink-weh tear-eh, but even after having lived there for a month, Im not entirely sure Im pronouncing it right.

This is just one of the ways this area of the world surprised me. After all, its now one of Italys most popular tourist destinations; youd think wed all know how to pronounce it by now.

Cinque Terre means five lands, and its the regional name for the string of five small villages  Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore  nestled in and on a series of rocky canyons and outcroppings along a rugged coastline on the Italian Riviera. But it also refers to the surrounding area, which is now a national park.

Here are all the other ways this area surprised us.

The village of Corniglia in Italys Cinque Terre. (Michael Jensen)

1) Its beauty somehow lives up to the hype

Over the last thirty years, the Cinque Terre has gone very big-time. These villages were even the inspiration for the fictional Italian village of Portorosso in the recent Pixar movie Luca.

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This area now includes some of the most photographed  and photogenic  spots in all of Italy.

Which meant it was hard to not come here without high expectations of incredible beauty. And in travel, high expectations often lead to vague disappointment.

I wasnt disappointed.

The towns of the Cinque Terre are Italy at its most photogenic. (Michael Jensen)

Even though Id seen hundreds of photographs of this area, I still found wonders everywhere I turned.

This is partly because the villages are built in such an unlikely way: up the sides of narrow valleys or perched precariously on top of rocky outcroppings. As a result, you climb over a hilltop or round a corner and  voila!  youre facing a dramatic gorge crammed with colorful buildings.

And then see things in a different light, or look a bit closer, and see even more interesting things.

No matter the time of day, the towns of the Cinque Terre are gorgeous to look at. (Michael Jensen)

But as I said, the Cinque Terre is more than just the five villages  it also includes the stunning coastline and terraced hillsides that surround them.

The hikes between the towns of the Cinque Terre are filled with gorgeous views. (Michael Jensen)

With all these pictures, now Ive created expectations for you. But if you ever come, I bet the Cinque Terre will still exceed them.

2) But the Cinque Terre is kind of like visiting a museum or theme park

I loved walking around the villages of the Cinque Terre  and taking pictures, obviously.

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But I didnt necessarily fall in love with them.

I think thats because unlike many of the other places weve visited in our travels, the villages of the Cinque Terre no longer feel like places where real people live.

It all feels like a museum or theme park. Im sure almost every aspect of the Cinque Terre is coordinated and regulated, and its now all very frozen in time. The five villages are even connected by a sleek, modern train system, which is very convenient, but it makes the area feel even more like Disneyland.

Beautiful  but with a definite theme park vibe. (Michael Jensen)

Most of the other places weve lived as nomads feel very different  more like proper communities, with less charm, sure, but more randomness and chaos, and also more change. They also have more locals  from parents with babies in strollers to old folks sitting on benches shooting the breeze.

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Sure, there are locals in the Cinque Terre, but theyre mostly workers catering to tourists  or subsidized farmers on display for tourists.

As for the tourists, well, there are hordes of them, disembarking from the trains and ferries, but theyre mostly interchangeable. Naturally, the locals are all kind of wary. This is not the place to come to make new local Italian friends.

Brent and I loved exploring the Cinque Terre, but we were also always happy to return to Levanto, the small town just outside the Cinque Terre where we lived for the month.

Levanto wasnt nearly as photogenic, but it felt like a real town, with Italians of all ages talking and smoking and laughing; groups of kids going to school in the morning; and even the occasional shouting match between Italian men arguing over who knows what.

3) The hiking is incredible

The Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also became Italys first national park, in 1999. And like all good national parks everywhere, its loaded with hikes.

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The most famous hike is the Verde Azzurro, or Blue Trail, which connects all five villages in four different legs. (But two of the legs are currently closed, and the other two require an access fee most of the year.)

What I didnt expect is all the other hikes  a total of 48 different hiking trails stretching some 120 kilometers, covering almost the entire area.

No matter the way you go the views are stunning (Michael Jensen)

These hikes are not always easy. Then again, the villages are famous for being nestled in rocky canyons and separated by tall headlands. That makes for some surprisingly steep climbs and descents  and sometimes some very awkwardly spaced stone steps.

But good hikes are mostly about the journey, not the destination, and these trails offer incredible views of the parks forests, and its terraced vineyards, and the rocky hills, and the ocean, and each of the villages of the Cinque Terre from different angles.

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And because these hikes are often so difficult, they also offer a surprising amount of satisfaction once you reach the end.

Weve come a long way, baby! The hike to Manarola from Portovenere, which is 13 kilometers behind us and 550 meters/1804 feet below! (Michael Jensen)

Well have more detailed information about our favorite hikes in an upcoming newsletter.

4) The train and ferry system is amazing

Earlier, I complained that the sleek, modern trains made the Cinque Terre feel a bit like an amusement park.

Thats true, but the trains  along with the ferry system  also make getting around astonishingly easy. Thats because Trenitalia has created a line that specifically runs between Levanto and La Spezia  the towns at either end of the Cinque Terre  stopping at all five of the Cinque Terre villages along the way.

Thanks to fast and frequent trains, it's easy to move between towns. (Michael Jensen)

While the trains are more convenient, the ferry system is also worth doing because the view of the Cinque Terre from the water will give you a new appreciation for just how intricately and expertly these villages meld into their environment.

5) The Cinque Terre is crowded. Man, is it crowded.

We spent a month here in the shoulder season of October and November, but it was still really crowded, especially on sunny days.

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If its this crowded at that time of year, I can only imagine what its like in summer.

If this is a weekday in October, what must a weekend in August be like? (Michael Jensen)

Theres a theory that climate change is altering travel patterns: because summer is hotter than before, Europes high season is moving deeper into the fall, which is staying warmer longer.

But its also true that the Cinque Terre has been discovered, big-time. And since theyre not making any new old Italian villages, they have to cram more and more people into the same five existing ones.

6) But all this tourism kinda saved the Cinque Terre

Weve established the Cinque Terre is popular, right? In fact, its current insane popularity might even be the result of a single travel writer  *cough* Rick Steves *cough*  who began banging on the Cinque Terre drum back in the 90s.

And if travel writers hadnt sent these hordes of visitors flocking here, the villages would now be five sleepy, charming, beautiful Italian villages, except with no tourists, right?

The trails between the villages were very crowded, even in October. (Michael Jensen)

Wrong! The fact is, before Rick Steves brought his hordes of tourists, this area was in very rapid decline. Most of the terraced vineyards were no longer economically viable and had long since been abandoned  creating some very dangerous conditions, frankly  and locals were leaving in droves.

(7) Speaking of those terraces? They really are amazing.

The terraces on the steep hillsides of the Cinque Terre date back to the Middle Ages, when the locals painstakingly built thousands of kilometers of terraces into the hills, to grow grapes and olives  which they did very successfully, in full view of the Mediterranean sun.

Everywhere you turn there's an orchard! (Michael Jensen)

But it was incredibly difficult work, and by the end of the 20th century, the vineyards had been almost entirely abandoned.

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Today the vineyards are being revitalized, but without being nearly so labor-intensive as it used to be to farm these terraces. How is it happening? It's due to a kind of monorail that was introduced. Metal tracks now crisscross the mountains, and farmers ride on carts, allowing easy transport of the grape and olive harvest to the roads above and below.

Simple monorails like this completely transformed harvesting grapes and olives on the Cinque Terre. (Michael Jensen)

Bottom line? The terraces are back to producing crops, and they also look incredibly beautiful again.
The author as a baby with her mother Courtesy of Alyson Pomerantz

The most biting piece of writing criticism I ever received came from my little sister. Shed been packing up her apartment in New York City when she discovered a copy of the eulogy Id given for my mother 11 years earlier, when I was 25.

She called me, flustered. It was 2013 and Id recently given up my career as a corporate lawyer to attend graduate school for creative writing. In my new life, classmates and I crowded around a worn, wooden table, avoiding eye contact while giving feedback on one anothers stories. Because of this, I should have been prepared for whatever my sister had to say. But I wasnt.

You made Mom sound like a crazy person, my sister told me.

I struggled to process her words. My beloved mother? Who I looked up to more than anyone?

While I couldnt remember exactly what I said in the eulogy, I could still hear the mourners reactions as they streamed out of the synagogue.

You really captured your mother, one of her colleagues told me.

You were so funny, said a family friend.

These recollections made my sisters criticism these years later all the more confusing.

My mothers eulogy was the first one Id ever written, and I didnt have much time to prepare because Jewish funerals are held within 24 hours of death. In my childhood bedroom, still covered in the purple wallpaper Id once begged my mother to buy for me, I had called up a lifes worth of details.

My mother had two masters degrees. She added the syllable er to words like soda and took it off words like drawer, a product of her Bronx upbringing. She had received her first cancer diagnosis at 26, a second at 33 and a third at 50.

The list went on: She wore Uggs before they were cool. She loved bread with olive oil and anchovies on pizza and the texture of banana taffy. On weekdays, shed always be up for a 6 a.m. spin class before work. I knew so many things about her, but as I started to put pen to paper, all of them seemed so mundane. Who cared that she liked sheepskin boots or chewy candy or stationary bikes?

I panicked. Normally, in an instance like that, I would have turned to my mother for help. She was my Google before Google  my personal Dear Abby. But, obviously, that was not possible.

If I had consulted with my rabbi, I might have learned that the earliest mention of a eulogy in a Jewish text appears in Genesis, when Abraham delivers a hesped for his beloved Sarah. The Torah doesnt specify his words, but some believe he wrote the Woman of Valor lines in the Book of Proverbs about her.

In a translation of the prayer, the speaker describes a woman who truly excels as a human. She is industrious, strong, wise and so much more. Woman of Valor teaches us that we should honor the deceased with positive words. The Shulchan Aruch, the most widely accepted code of Jewish law, elaborates on this: It is an important religious duty to lament the dead fittingly.

Without this wisdom, I took a different approach. Closing my eyes, I tried to picture myself with my mother. A few memories came to mind almost instantly. These were the stories Id told and retold over the years because I believed they most exemplified our relationship.

The author (left) and her sister on her sister's wedding day. Photo by Jacqueline Schlossman

Apparently it was these stories  the backbone of my eulogy that gave my sister pause when she re-read it all those years later.

You started with Leo, she reminded me over the phone.

Leo was a boy whom Id dated for two weeks in seventh grade before he dumped me in the cafeteria. By eighth grade, Id recovered from the embarrassment, and we became friends. Then I found out that he didnt invite me to a party at his house. I was devastated.

I shared my disappointment with my mother. She was convinced that it had to be an oversight. In her typical take-charge manner, she suggested we clear up the misunderstanding by dropping by his house after school.

What was so bad about that? I asked my sister.

A 40-year-old woman is so desperate to get her teenage daughter invited to a boys party that she drives to his house to confront him? my sister said, condescension dripping from her voice.

A line of sweat formed on my upper lip.

You make it sound worse than it was, I replied, though as I said the words, I suddenly wasnt so sure.

He still didnt invite you! How much worse could it have been?

Its just one anecdote, I said, my heart rate rising.

Then you told the story about the time in college when Mom marched you down to the academic advising office  

Maybe I took some creative license when I described it as a march, I said, cutting my sister off.

I sat down on the couch because I felt a little light-headed, not unlike how I felt during the episode in question, which took place on a sweltering late-summer day in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Once Id been accepted to college, my mother read all the materials Id been sent, which included a description of the honors program I hadnt been invited to join. My mother insisted we talk to a university administrator. As usual, I went along with her plan.

Without batting an eyelash, the administrator lobbed me a series of questions.

Were you valedictorian?

I shook my head no.

Get over a 1500 on your SATs?

Another head shake.

All fives on your AP exams?

By then, I was ready to crawl back out of the building, but my mother shrugged it off.

She just wanted what was best for me, I said to my sister, but mostly to myself.

"Here I am rocking a perm, with my mother, at a Bat Mitzvah," the author writes. Courtesy of Alyson Pomerantz

Even as I justified my mothers behavior, I could see what my sister was getting at. In telling these stories, I had inadvertently highlighted some of her less attractive qualities: She could be pushy and overprotective, and ignorant of the pain she might have caused while trying to defend me.

Was my sister right? Had I given my mother more of a roast than a toast?

If so, I wasnt alone.

Search worst eulogies of all time on the internet and one result is the speeches Eric, Ivanka and Donald Jr. Trump gave at their mother Ivanas funeral. When I read the quotes, I was especially drawn to Don Jr.s. He described his mothers behavior as emasculating and revealed how she showed him what Eastern European discipline was really all about.

While Don Jr.s tone is wry, these anecdotes certainly dont exactly paint Ivana in the best light. On X (then Twitter), someone called the excerpts the darkest thing they had ever read. Others talked about how traumatized the kids must be.

Im normally not one to defend the Trump family, but I felt sympathy for Don Jr. when I read many of the reactions to his eulogy  especially after I saw his Instagram post about how much he will miss his mom. Perhaps Don Jr. used humor as a shield for memories that were likely painful or, at the very least, represented complicated aspects of his relationship with his mother. Maybe his words revealed more than he had intended. Did mine do the same?

I had always told myself that my relationship with my mother was perfect. She fed into this idealization, once confiding in my aunt that she made me in her image. We were not a family that normally went around citing the Torah, so she might have been kidding. But I was her first born  the child who couldnt wait to grow up and have a closet full of business suits, just like her. At the heart of our relationship was an understanding: I would do my best to live up to the example she set for me, and she would do her best to protect me. But the way she tried to do that could be complicated, as illustrated by the anecdotes I shared.

And one I didnt share.

A few years before my mothers death, when I was a senior in college, I started dating a woman for the first time. Despite our closeness, I kept this from my mother, in part because I didnt understand it. I wasnt sure that I was a lesbian, or even bisexual. But perhaps the real reason I didnt say anything was that I feared her reaction.

Though my mother been supportive of a male friend of mine who had come out in high school, I sensed what her expectations were for me, the child who dwelled in her image. During our phone calls, she might ask about a Jewish boy Id befriended at the campus Hillel. She combed The New York Times wedding announcements for clues about how she might get me my very own blurb one day. She joked about sewing a piece of my baby blanket into my wedding dress. A daughter-in-law was clearly not part of this fantasy.

Eventually I told her about the relationship, but only after it was over  more of a coming clean than a coming out. Her reaction was disapproving, nonetheless. Instead of speaking to the version of me that was on the other end of the phone  a confused and afraid 21-year-old  my mother addressed a future version of me.

If you live your life with a woman, she said, her tone chilly and distant, it will be so much harder.

The author (age 20) and her mother on a trip to England Courtesy of Alyson Pomerantz

I believe, on some level, she was trying to protect me. This was the mid-90s, and less than a third of Americans supported marriage equality. President Bill Clinton had signed the Defense of Marriage Act. After Ellen DeGeneres came out on her own primetime sitcom, companies pulled their advertising and a year later her show was canceled.

Despite all of this, I was still hurt by my mothers reaction. But I didnt confront her about it. I cant say why, but I suspect I was afraid to alienate her further. I wanted to remain in her image.

When I moved closer to home for law school, I mostly dated men and didnt discuss my occasional visits to a lesbian bar in the West Village. Then, just a year after I finished law school, she died, before we ever got the chance to revisit our conversation.

It wasnt until years after her death that I started dating women again and came out to my family. Throughout that process, I uncovered a lot of anger that I had toward my mother about how she reacted to my initial confession.

I also began to see how I had internalized her fears and, at times, confused her expectations with my own. With her gone, I learned who I was apart from her. It wasnt always an easy journey. There were career missteps, failed relationships and many moments of wishing she was still there to guide me. But I started to find my own way and eventually married a woman and started a family of my own.

I now see the eulogy as a key point in this personal trajectory. Both writing it and reflecting on it many years later, in part because of my sisters criticism, gave me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic my mother and I shared  and also myself as my own person.

And yet, I cant escape the fact that I gave my mom a pretty poor send-off. In addition to my speech being unflattering, I now realized the stories I picked were more about me than her. Some eulogy.

What would I say now if I could do it over? Like the exemplary woman honored in the Book of Proverbs, my mother led her life with notable strength and determination. She survived cancer twice and went back to school while raising three kids, including my brother, who has Down Syndrome and struggled with a cancer diagnosis of his own. She worked her way up to become the head of an inpatient psychiatric unit and was active in many local nonprofits. One of the last things she did before she died was help establish a small group home for my brother in our community so he could live his adulthood with some independence from our family. She made so many things look easy, whether offering therapy, creating a beautiful home, or finding that perfect shirt on a Loehmanns discount rack. A woman of valor, indeed.

It turns out she was also an accomplished eulogist. I recently found a printed copy of the remarks she gave for her own mother. In them, she describes my grandmothers volunteer work at a free dental clinic on the Lower East Side and the many sacrifices my grandmother made over the years for family and friends. She captures my grandmothers spirit  her dark sense of humor and her can-do attitude.

There is one moment where my mothers all-praising voice falters. She describes the broken hip that precipitated my grandmothers death. I remember that summer well. We all expected my grandmother to recover, but she didnt. My mother often came home from the hospital in tears, frustrated by my grandmothers lack of progress. In the eulogy, my mother frames this as my grandmothers choice. For years, my grandmother chastised my mother for not visiting enough, not calling enough, not loving enough. Now it was my grandmothers turn to disappoint her daughter by not fighting hard enough to live.

This moment  where my mothers consternation seeps out  comforts me. It reminds me that I wasnt the only one who brought my hurt into a situation intended to celebrate anothers strengths. It also made me realize that while my issues with my mother were specific to us, many others have also struggled with their relationship with a parent. And havent most of us carried some of that struggle into our adulthoods? Where do we hide these hurts? And when do they slip out?

The author, age 10, with her mother in their backyard. "This is my favorite photo of us together," she writes. Courtesy of Alyson Pomerantz

I dont think that I intentionally chose to make my mother look bad in my eulogy. As I searched for the right words to talk about who she was, perhaps I was facing the uncomfortable fact that she never did the same for me. And now, never would.

While I might not be my mothers carbon copy, as she had once believed, this is one place where our images certainly and squarely overlapped: We both shared an inability to truly see each other separate from one another.

In the final words of my eulogy, I remember addressing my mother directly. I love you, Mom, I said, crying at Mom  a word that had taken up so much space in my life and now would have new meaning without her.

I might have botched the eulogy, but no one could mistake my emotion: I loved my mother very much. And while our love for each other couldnt completely bridge our differences, I hold onto the thought that had my mother lived, this love would have enabled us to work through our issues.

Unlike a eulogy, a relationship does not exist at a fixed moment in time. The story of my mother and me continues to write itself in my head. In my imagination, there is always room for a do-over.

Alyson Pomerantz writes memoir and screenplays, mostly while commuting by train to New York City. She is at work on a memoir about understanding her sexuality and finding love in her 20s and 30s after the death of her mother.

Do you have a compelling personal story youd like to see published on HuffPost? Find out what were looking for here and send us a pitch at pitch@huffpost.com.

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Watch the moment new herd welcomes rescued sheep on New York farm. Youre safe now

A sheep in New York was set to be slaughtered before a sanctuary stepped in.

Nicole had been at a small hobby farm for 10 years and was bred over and over again, Riki Higgins with Woodstock Farm Sanctuary in High Falls told McClatchy News in a phone interview.

Nicole, who the sanctuary believes is 12 years old, bred multiple litters of babies, but none of them survived because she had an issue with her udder that didnt allow her to nurse, Higgins said.

They didnt have formula, they didnt monitor the babies or anything, Higgins said. They just continued to breed her, but one of the people on the farm got fed up.

It appeared she was going to be slaughtered  until someone stepped in and called the sanctuary, Higgins said.

In March, crew with the sanctuary went to the farm and performed a sad rescue, Higgins said.

They lured her in to have her penned up by having one of her buddies there, Higgins said. We asked if we could take the the other sheep too, but they told us no.

Nicole had given birth to three babies two days before her rescue, Higgins said. The babies didnt survive, but Nicole still had blood and bodily fluids on her backside.

Higgins said Nicole isnt the most fearful sheep and was very patient when they had to do extensive exams and cleanup on her.

Nicole underwent fecal tests to see if she had any parasites and was quarantined for three weeks before she was able to meet her new herd, Higgins said.

Its looking pretty likely right now that Nicole is going to need surgery for that udder, they said in a March 21 TikTok captioned Please meet Nicole. Her story is sad but shes starting to heal here.

In the TikTok thats garnered over 6.2 million views as of April 12, Nicole can be seen being released into the sanctuarys goat and sheep barn.

All her new friends quickly run up to her and give her a warm welcome, the April 8 video shows.

Our sheep live in a reassuring environment and unusual things dont usually happen to them so they feel very safe and comfortable, Higgins said. We feel comfortable introducing new sheep to our herd, and they generally are pretty chill when it comes to meeting new folks.

But Higgins said not every new sheep reacts the way Nicole did.

Some are a lot more nervous but she seemed to sense OK, this is all good, theyre coming to check me out, everythings fine, so she went right on in there, Higgins said.

They said Nicole is now doing great.

Shes spending time with our more reserved sheep, which is to be expected, Higgins said. Shes adjusting to the team, learning who she likes to hang out with.

TikTok users jumped to the comments and gave their thoughts on the sanctuary saving this angel.

Its the youre safe now by sheep for me, one user said.

Thats so sweet. They just enveloped her in a big group hug and accepted her. I hope she finds peace in her new family, another person said.

Shes such a cutie, welcome to the good life Nicole, one said.

High Falls is about a 100-mile drive north of New York City.

Cat shares newborn kittens with cat who lost own baby. See beautiful video on TikTok

Baby otters born at Washington zoo weigh the same as 5 fun-size Snickers. See them

Splishy splashes. Watch elephant have a ball in storms aftermath at California zoo
Chefs create new recipes all the time, but for owner Joshua Plahm his scratch-made pickle bread at Marvins Corner Lunch Diner in Worcester was created by happy accident. While pickle bread isnt new to the food scene, Plahm undeniably has taken its popularity to a new level with his customers.

The story of how pickle bread got on the diners menu began with a wholesale five-gallon bucket of pickles. Plahm had ordered half kosher dill pickles that he planned to serve with sandwiches and burgers. Instead, he got what he describes as five gallons of chopped pickles, almost the consistency of relish.

I was frustrated and I didnt really know what to do about the mix-up, said Plahm. Returning the bucket wasnt in the cards, he said. Plahm and his wife, Jennie, quickly took on the pickle challenge. At first, they thought pickle lovers might enjoy a tiny cup of the relish served as a condiment with a burger or sandwich and then decided against the idea. Nothing really appealed to us until I thought of making pickle bread, said Plahm, who already was making sourdough, English muffins and golden raisin and seeded rye breads for the diner. He said he came up with four or five different pickle bread recipes before finding the perfect one. His wife was the taste tester, he said. I love making all different kinds of bread, said Plahm. For me, baking bread is a way to relax. Note: Bulkie rolls and bagels on the diners menu are not made on premise.

Plahms hearty bread studded with chopped dill pickles and fresh dill makes a great sandwich, especially a pickled grilled cheese, said Jennie Plahm. Some customers just like the bread slathered with butter, she said. One customer recently asked the chef to make thick sliced, pickle bread French toast. She liked it, he said.

When customers spot pickle bread on the menu they usually ask about it, said Plahm. Some people consider it a little weird, while others say its delicious and the pickle taste isnt overpowering. Its all about personal taste, he said.

The diner accepts pre-orders and usually stocks a couple extra loaves of the bread for take-out customers. For breads, Plahm buys freshly stone-milled flours from Ground Up Grain in Hadley. The local company crafts great flour, he said.

The pickle bread is a popular item at Marvin's Corner Lunch.

Plaham, born in Texas, refers to himself as a military brat, explaining that his father served in the military and the family moved from place to place during his fathers enlistment. My dad ended his career at Fort Devens Massachusetts, said Plahm.

In 2021,Plahm bought the Corner Lunch Diner property at 131 Lamartine St., Worcester, from Charles Boukalis. He changed the diners name to honor the late Dr. Marvin Baum, his wifes grandfather. Baum, who died in 2019 at 98, reportedly was a founding member of the Fallon Clinic in Worcester and worked at St. Vincent and Fairlawn hospitals. He was a Navy veteran of WWII.

Plahm previously had owned Joshuas Deli in Bostons financial district for 10 years, closing the business when his landlord sold the building. He graduated from Johnson & Wales University in Providence and holds a Biotechnology Bachelors Degree from Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. At the time he graduated from Rochester Institute, Plahm said there was a recession and PhDs were getting the jobs. I always liked to cook and had worked in fast food places when I was younger, so I decided to switch gears. Things have worked out, he said. After graduating from Johnson & Wales, Plahm worked corporate food service before buying the Boston deli.

Marvins Corner Lunch Diner serves all-day breakfast and lunch, with classic diner food. Hours are 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday; Closed Tuesday. Call (508) 762-9574. Takeout and delivery (DoorDash, Grubhub). Connect on social media.

Plahm said he wanted to keep things simple when he bought the business. Along the way, he has introduced a few new menu items. One of them, the Ballpark Breakfast Sandwich, includes shaved steak, egg, nacho cheese and spicy hash browns on a bulkie roll. His corned beef hash is popular, he said, and so is the Reuben special, a classic made with corned beef piled on the diners seeded rye bread, with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing, then grilled. Plaham brines his own corned beef.

Leominster residents, Josh and Jennie Plahm have a 14-year-old son, Lucas, who helps at Marvins Corner Lunch Diner weekends and school vacations. With diner competition in the city, Plahm said his scratch-made breads help set his business apart from other establishments. Competition is good for all of us, he said.

When Plahm first opened the diner, he said he sometimes had to remind customers, Im not Charlie (former owner). As chef, he said hes flexible and accommodates customers with special food requests whenever he can. He enjoys operating a family-owned business in the city and the diners hours help him maintain a good work-life balance. I know Ill always have a job, said Plahm, smiling.

He proved hes a chef who knows how to get himself out of a pickle.

If you have a tidbit for the column, call (508) 868-5282. Send email to bhoulefood@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Table Hoppin': Marvin's Corner Lunch's pickle bread a popular favorite
The Charlotte metro continues to grow by about 111 people a day, which includes families looking to set down roots. And, according to Niche.coms Best Places to Live rankings for 2024, some places here fare better than others when it comes to raising a family.

Tega Cay has notched another top spot in Niche.coms rankings, landing at No. 1 among the best places to raise a family both in the Charlotte area and in South Carolina as a whole. That community, about 20 miles southwest of Charlotte in the Lake Wylie area, also ranked as the best place to live in the local metro as well as in South Carolina.

Tega Cay received its highest grade  an A+  in public schools and being good for families.

Several other Charlotte suburbs also scored high marks in the local ranking of best places for families. See the top 15  and their grades on each metric  on CBJs website here.

VIDEO: Tega Cay releases update on efforts to control deer population
















From fairs and festivals to cheering on the home team, heres whats happening around Charlotte.

Use the links provided to confirm hours and to check for last-minute weather updates before you go.

Enjoy carnival rides and games at the Queen Charlotte Fair, which is open at Route 29 Pavilion near Charlotte Motor Speedway through April 21.

Its the last weekend to check out Charlotte Shout before it ends on Sunday. There will be free concerts at First Ward Park all weekend and the Charlotte StrEATs Festival will be held at Gateway Village on Sunday.

Fan Guide: Have a ball with the Charlotte Knights

Rock Hills annual Come-See-Me spring festival is underway and continues through April 20. This weekends festivities include the Beach Bash on Friday and the Mayors Frog Jump and Movie Night on Saturday.

Hear your favorite Disney princess songs performed live by Broadway stars at Disney Princess: The Concert taking place at Ovens Auditorium on Friday.

Music fans can hear classics from legends Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, and Sarah Vaughan at the Charlotte Symphonys Great Ladies of Swing performance at Knight Theater on Friday and Saturday.

Get your fill of barbecue, brews, burgers and tunes at the 3-day Moo, Brew & Que Music Festival at the AvidXchange Music Factory. Headliners include The Revivalists and Hippo Campus.

Looking for something different to do this weekend? Check out the Carolina Tiny House Festival at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Saturday and Sunday. Or head to the 7th annual Silver in the City Airstream rally in downtown York. There will be an opening ceremony on Friday and an open house on Saturday.

Strawberry season has arrived and Fort Mill is gearing up for the 15th annual South Carolina Strawberry Festival. The main event isnt until May but festivities start this weekend with the Little Miss, Teen, and Miss Strawberry Pageants.

Heres whos playing at Charlottes largest amphitheaters this season

Cheer on the crown when Charlotte FC takes on Toronto FC at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday.

Enjoy hands-on activities, a scavenger hunt, and gallery tours during Family Day at McColl Center on Saturday.

Shop from 30+ handmade and food vendors, listen to live music and experience lantern-lit walkways at Nebels Alley Night Market at South Ends Design Center on Saturday.

Learn how to be kinder to our planet at Earth Jam at Robbins Park in Cornelius on Saturday. There will be live music, food and drinks, and interactive demonstrations.

Other festivals happening this weekend include the Downtown Statesville Wine Walk on Saturday, Paws in the Park at Pineville Park Lake on Saturday, the Arts+ Spring Festival in Plaza Midwood on Saturday, the Holi Color Festival at the Hindu Center of Charlotte on Sunday, and the Charlotte Kids Festival and UNC Charlotte STEAM Expo at UNC Charlotte on Sunday.

Families can also enjoy an educational adventure on Saturday at STEAM On the Wing & On the Water, where learning comes to life against the scenic backdrop of Latta Nature Preserve in Huntersville.

Grab your cape and mask and head to Micro-Con at Sweet Union Brewing in Indian Trail on Saturday. There will be comics, video game tournaments, cosplay contests, prizes, a food truck, and charity raffle.

Listen to live music and grab a bite from a food truck at the Mint Museum Randolphs monthly Party in the Park on Sunday. Admission to the museum is free during the event.

VIDEO: Out-of-this-world immersive exhibit coming to Charlotte








1,300 gallons of fuel spilled after rail car rolls into locomotive at Lakeland rail yard

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  About 1,300 gallons of fuel spilled from a train Tuesday at a rail yard in Lakeland, according to a pollution notice from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

A rail car rolled into a locomotive in the CSX Winston Yard, puncturing the fuel tank, according to the notice, which was reported by a CSX hazardous materials manager.

Some of the diesel fuel spilled into a drainage ditch in the rail yard, according to the notice. The rest of the fuel was removed from the punctured tank.

Crews were working to clean up the rest of the fuel that spilled into the rail yard.

No other details were immediately available.

This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
One student was injured and transported to a hospital, and a suspect is in custody after a shooting at Wilmer-Hutchins High School in Dallas on Friday morning, authorities said.

Dallas Fire-Rescue units were dispatched at 10:36 a.m. to the school at 5520 Langdon Road, in southeast Dallas, in response to a confirmed active shooter incident, a DFR spokesperson said.

The injured student was shot in the leg by another student in a classroom, Dallas ISD Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde said at a news conference Friday afternoon. The teacher in the classroom helped us avoid additional tragedy, she said.

The injured student is expected to survive, the superintendent said.

As Elizalde spoke, a voice could be heard in the background announcing names of students who were lined up to be released and reunited with their families.

A police spokesperson had told reporters outside the school Friday morning that officers were working to search and clear the building before reuniting students with their parents and other family members on campus.

The identity of the suspect has not been released. Law enforcement sources told WFAA they believe the suspected shooter and the victim know each other.

Its unclear how the shooter was able to get a handgun inside the school building. Dallas ISD has a clear backpack policy, and the school has metal detectors, the superintendent said.

In a statement on social media Friday morning, Dallas ISD said, All students and team members are safe at Wilmer-Hutchins High School as we have initiated our safety protocol. Police are on site to ensure our school remains secure. At this time, we ask for everyone to refrain from coming to the campus, as we limit access inside.

Today's top stories:

 Family of disabled woman sues after incarceration in Tarrant County Jail

 1 student hospitalized in shooting at Dallas Wilmer-Hutchins High School

 Man running from Fort Worth officers hit, killed by truck on Interstate 30

Get free alerts when news breaks.

Families werent allowed on campus until after the police search was complete, authorities said.

The school district said parents will receive a letter with more details about what happened.

This is a developing story. For the latest updates, sign up for breaking news alerts.
MUSKEGON, Mich. (WOOD)  One person was sentenced for defrauding the COVID Emergency Rental Assistance program, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority said.

A judge has sentenced Aaron Pulsifer to a minimum of seven years and a maximum of 30 years in prison and has been ordered to pay $124,050 back to MSHDA.

A report of fraud led to MSHDA and police investigating Pulsifer. They found that he had conspired with others to submit multiple fraudulent assistance applications.

This program provided peace of mind to renters and landlords at a time when they needed it most, Amy Hovey, CEO and executive director of MSHDA, said in a release. We continue to work hard with state and local law enforcement partners to preserve the integrity of our programs, pursue all allegations of fraud, waste, or abuse, and recover any program funds obtained illegally.

Anyone who suspects fraud, waste or abuse of any MSHDA program is asked to call 517.335.9953 or file a complaint using the online MSHDA fraud complaint form.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
A group of 10 suspected illegal migrants from Asia and Guatemala have been arrested for allegedly possessing child pornography at a Texas house, police say, while Homeland Security tells Fox News Digital that the premises was being used as a "stash house for human smuggling activities."

The 10 suspects were taken into custody Thursday morning following a search of a house at 5118 Dripping Springs in Chambers County, about 33 miles east of Downtown Houston, according to the Chambers County Sheriffs Office (CCSO).

Law enforcement stated that they had to force entry into the premises after the occupants refused to let the officers in during the 9 a.m. search.

Ten suspected illegal migrants have been arrested for allegedly possessing child pornography at a Texas house that officials say was being used as a "stash house for human smuggling activities."

READ MORE OF FOX NEWS' COVERAGE OF THE BORDER CRISIS

Once inside, police discovered 10 people who the CCSO said are believed to be in the U.S. illegally. A Homeland Security spokesperson tells Fox News Digital that the immigration status of the 10 has yet to be determined.

Police also seized several electronic devices from the premises; however, the contents of these devices remain unconfirmed, Fox 26 reports. Restaurant supplies were also found.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The search was prompted following a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children database, suggesting that child pornography may have been downloaded at this location.

"Those types of downloads are illegal and are heavily monitored," CCSO Captain Bryan Baker told Fox 26. "We're just not going to tolerate that in our county."

The CCSO on Thursday posted photos of the suspects sitting down in handcuffs outside the residence with their faces obscured.

The Sheriffs Office said that some of the individuals were of Asian descent, and some were from Guatemala.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) responded to the scene to assist with the investigation, and all 10 individuals were transported to the Chambers County Jail to be processed by the federal agency.

Law enforcement had to force entry into the premises after the occupants refused to let officers in.

ICE ARRESTS ILLEGAL MIGRANTS RELEASED WITHOUT BAIL AFTER ALLEGED ASSAULT ON NYPD AT TARGET

"On April 11, Homeland Security Investigations Houston assisted our state and local partners with a law enforcement action related to an ongoing child exploitation investigation," the spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

"During the course of the enforcement action and based on the individuals encountered, the structure was additionally determined to be a stash house for human smuggling activities."

"HSI Houston is continuing to work with our state and local partners in furtherance of this investigation."

Homeland Security Investigations responded to the scene to assist with the investigation and all 10 individuals were transported to the Chambers County Jail to be processed by the federal agency.

It is unclear what charges the 10 suspects face. Fox News Digital contacted the CCSO but was unable to get a response to this query.

"This is an ongoing investigation that will require an extensive follow-up to investigative leads," CCSO wrote in a Facebook post on Thursday.

"This is an ongoing investigation looking into possible human trafficking and/or human smuggling as well as other possible crimes."





Original article source: 10 suspected illegal migrants busted for child pornography at Texas human smuggling 'stash house'
Military instructors and representatives of the Russian Defense Ministry have arrived in Niger, where a coup d'etat took place in 2023. This may indicate a rapprochement between this West African country, led by a junta, and Moscow.

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This was reported by Reuters. Footage of the arrival of the Russian military on an airplane loaded with military equipment was broadcast by Niger's state-run RTN television on Thursday. However, it is noted that the plane from Russia arrived in this African country on Wednesday.

Explaining the arrival of the Russians in Niger, local television referred to an agreement between the junta and dictator Vladimir Putin to strengthen cooperation between the countries.

The TV also showed footage of a military cargo plane unloading equipment, with uniformed men standing next to it.

"We are here to train the Nigerian army... (and) to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger," one of the men in camouflage uniform, who, according to RTN, was one of the instructors, said.

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Russia has also reportedly agreed to deploy an air defense system in Niger.

The arrival of Russian instructors became possible after Niger's decision in mid-March to cancel a military agreement with the United States. This agreement allowed Pentagon personnel to operate two bases on its territory, including a drone base that the United States built for more than $100 million.

The Pentagon later said that US officials had expressed concerns to Niger about its potential development of ties with Russia before the junta terminated the agreement, which governed approximately 1,000 US military personnel there.

Coup d'etat in Niger

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In 2023, a military coup took place in Niger, which resulted in the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum from office.

On July 26, 2023, soldiers of the Niger National Guard detained President Mohamed Bazoum, and another group of military officers announced his removal from office, closed the country's borders, suspended the activities of state institutions and imposed a curfew. After that, on July 28, the head of the presidential guard, Abdourahamane Tchiani, proclaimed himself the new leader of the country.

This military coup was the fifth since the country gained independence in 1960 and the first since 2010. It led to a full-scale international crisis.

The West African countries (ECOWAS) reacted to the coup by announcing that they would intervene militarily if the junta refused to restore constitutional order in the country. The junta replied that in that case they would kill Bazoum. After some time, the ECOWAS countries suspended a meeting on possible intervention.

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The international community condemned the coup. France, the United States, the European Union, the African Union, and ECOWAS countries demanded the restoration of Bazum's power. European countries also cut aid by hundreds of millions of dollars.

Earlier, it was reported that the military, which came to power in Niger, banned the functioning of international organizations. In particular, UN agencies have suspended their work in the areas where armed clashes are taking place.

In 2023, the last French military personnel deployed in Niger as part of a ten-year anti-jihadist operation left the country. The withdrawal of the French contingent, which numbered about 1,500 people, began in October this year.

Only verified information is available on Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!

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After spending 12 weeks and $40,000 on a search that focused on internal candidates, the Fresno Unified School Board announced a new search that will be broader and include external applicants.

At least one board member told The Fresno Bee that it will likely be a nationwide search, once the details are hammered out.

The board is considering options for the superintendent search process and for purposes of transparency, the board will proceed with an external search for qualified candidates, Susan Wittrup, the board president, said at the April 10 board meeting.

Details about the process and timeline will be provided at subsequent board meetings, she said.

The board has not made decisions for the next steps, Trustee Veva Islas told The Bee, and has yet to discuss the scope of the search. Islas said she assumes it would go nationwide.

Islas also said the board should hire another consulting firm. The previous headhunter, Leadership Associates, withdrew from the search on April 3 after the board canceled internal interviews at the last minute in response to public outcry.

Over the past two months, Leadership Associates hosted 24 listening sessions to gather community feedback. It summarized a report and a proposed job description to the board, but the full material hasnt been made public, and Islas said the board hasnt decided on the information it has already gathered.

I do know we have heard repeatedly that the community wants an opportunity to meet the potential candidates and hear from them directly, so I would envision some type of forum where that could happen, she said.

Though the clock is ticking, Islas said she still hopes a new superintendent can be hired before the end of July. Superintendent Bob Nelson announced his departure in late January and his last day would be July 31. Deputy Superintendent Misty Her became interim superintendent if the position remains vacant beyond Nelsons last day.

Nelson, chief of staff when the district fired its previous Superintendent Michael Hanson in January 2017, was appointed acting superintendent and interim superintendent a few weeks later, while the board conducted a nationwide search and held public meetings to seek community input with the help of the same headhunter, Leadership Associates.

In September 2017, Nelson beat 24 candidates and was unanimously approved to take the position permanently.

That was the first time since 1988 that Fresno Unified hired one of its own employees to become superintendent.

Internal or external?

Hiring a superintendent might be tougher nowadays, said David Cash, a superintendent headhunter from another consulting firm Education Leadership Services. Cash has 15 years of superintendent experience, including serving for two years at Clovis Unified School District.

Not a lot of people applying to be superintendents these days, its highly political in nature, said Cash. It used to be a very different job, theres not a lot of people are interested in the job as much as they used to be 10 or 15 years ago.

Because of this, it was common for the district to consider internal candidates first, or solely, Cash said.

If they have qualified candidates inside, its often the best route to go, particularly if they are happy with the direction the district is going, Cash added. Trouble in the boardroom at the superintendents office has a direct result in student achievement, so if they got good internal candidates, its probably the best thing they can do to avoid wasting the time of external candidates.

Last year, the nearby Sanger Unified School District spent three months recruiting for a superintendent with the help of Leadership Associates, and its board decided to limit the candidates to district employees, Sanger Unified Trustee Va Her told The Bee. Sanger Unified has over 13,000 students enrolled in the school year 2022-23.

There are more than two dozen school districts across California currently seeking superintendents or assistant superintendents with publicly-available job postings, including big districts such as San Francisco Unified and Orange Unified. The nearby Merced City School District, which serves over 12,000 students through 14 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and preschool program, has been trying to fill the vacancy for more than a year.

Wittrup said at Wednesdays board meeting that she wants to take the opportunity for the community and the board to pick the very best qualified superintendent.

This is the most important work that we do, we cannot allow fragmented competing interest to continue to ply bumper cars, she said. We have to join together, ground ourselves, and follow the process.

Trustee Keshia Thomas, who has been in support of prioritizing internal candidates, was absent from the board meeting. When contacted by The Bee, she said she wasnt feeling well on Wednesday and sent a brief statement regarding her stand in the search.

I still stand by the employees of Fresno Unified as I believe they deserve to be at the forefront of this search. I appreciate their hard work and dedication, in the end, they will shine, the message read.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  An infusion of $16.7 million in federal funding will expand early learning centers and child care access in communities across the state.

An official with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada said the funds will double the number of learning centers.

In partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs, a proposal from Gov. Joe Lombardo will use funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The Nevada Legislatures Interim Finance Committee approved the allocation on Thursday. The initiative funds 14 projects statewide, involving the collaboration of seven independent Boys & Girls Clubs organizations and their respective board of directors and community partners.

The funding will support Boys & Girls Clubs projects in Carson City, Dayton, Elko, Ely, Eureka, Incline Village, Las Vegas, Laughlin, Minden, Reno, Spring Creek and Winnemucca. The locations were selected in areas of emerging industrial development, surging populations and/or a lack of child care, according to a Friday news release.

Eight of the 14 projects are expected to be finished and providing services to families by the end of this year. The remaining six projects are due for completion in early 2026.

The funding will double the number of Boys & Girls Clubs early learning centers and provide an additional 1,000 children with quality day care, mental health enrichment and Kindergarten-readiness activities, according to Andy Bischel, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada based in Las Vegas. This is exactly what ARPA was created for  post-pandemic economic recovery projects to support hard working families.

Parents from the Las Vegas valley say the new options are a welcome development. Isis Jones, a mother of nine, said she understands the struggle to find proper childcare services in the area.

Its almost $1,200 a month just for two kids for childcare, Jones said.

Terrance Martin, another southern Nevada parent, says hes pleased to hear about the development.

It will help a lot of struggling families, said Martin. It is hard out here, especially during these times.

Boys & Girls Clubs currently operate in 13 valley locations. Those are clubhouses, and they dont have the early learning programs that received federal funding. Jimmy Bearse, director of marketing for Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada, said the funding will allow the construction of a brand new location.

Mike Wurm, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Truckee Meadows based in Reno said, ARPA funding will provide the critical capital needed to bring these projects to fruition quickly. The projects are shovel-ready and many are highly anticipated by employees in mining, trades, charter schools and local government. Its a game-changing economic driver for working parents.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
16-year-old Durham boy who died Thursday is second child in family shot this week

Five people were shot in Durham late Thursday afternoon, including a 16-year-old boy shot on Truman Street who died at the hospital.

At a news conference, Police Chief Patrice Andrews said it was a very tragic loss and that the teens brother had been shot on the same street less than a week ago, though that boy survived.

I am sad. I am very angry. Theres a lot of questions that I have about where have we gone wrong, Andrews said at police headquarters Friday morning.

Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews and Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams leave after a press conference at police headquarters Friday, April 12, 2024. Chief Andrews and Mayor Williams spoke about the five people shot in Durham Thursday that included a 16-year-old boy who died at the hospital. Ethan Hyman/ehyman@newsobserver.com

Mayor Leonardo Williams was similarly frustrated.

These are mostly young Black boys under the age of 20, WIlliams said. Were seeing the same face, a younger version of me. And thats why its personal.

The death was one of three shooting incidents in a two-hour span Thursday. Police have not said if any of the incidents were related.

There is a lot to process here, a lot that we still dont know, Andrews said.

4 p.m. Truman Street

Officers responded to the first shooting around 4 p.m. in the 1200 block of Truman Street, a short residential street just outside the Hayti District south of downtown, according to a news release.

They found the 16-year-old bleeding from a gunshot wound in his chest and began CPR, Andrews said. The boy died in the hospital a couple of hours later.

Police said they will not provide the boys name since he was underage.

Durham police say a 16-year-old shot on Truman Street on Thursday afternoon, April 11, 2024. He later died at a hospital. ABC11

Andrews said a Black male with a handgun was spotted running from the scene and getting into a red Chrysler Sebring. Police began a brief chase, but stopped after determining it was unsafe.

Police later recovered the vehicle, which was stolen, on Hardee Street about 3.4 miles away, Andrews said.

Anyone who may have information is asked to call Investigator J. Berkstresser at 919-560-4440 ext. 29538.

5 p.m. Fayetteville Street

Shortly before 5 p.m., police responded to a second shooting near the intersection of Fayetteville Street and Linwood Avenue.

Officers did not find any victims there, but soon afterward a man and a boy who had both been shot arrived at a local hospital with what were believed to be non-life-threatening injuries, according to a police news release.

Another man with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound arrived at a hospital around the same time, police said.

Investigators determined all three were shot at that scene.

One of the victims, 31-year-old Javonnte Patterson, was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.

Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews listens to a question during a press conference Friday, April 12, 2024. Chief Andrews spoke about the five people shot in Durham Thursday which included a 16-year-old boy who died at the hospital. Ethan Hyman/ehyman@newsobserver.com

6 p.m. Pettigrew Street

Shortly after 6 p.m., police responded to gunshots in the 300 block of West Pettigrew Street, just north of the American Tobacco Campus.

A short time later, a man who had been shot walked into the nearby bus station.

He was taken to a local hospital, where Andrews said he was in stable condition Friday morning.

A black Honda Accord stolen in Holly Springs was seen leaving that scene. Police are looking for that car.

Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams speaks during a press conference at police headquarters Friday, April 12, 2024. Mayor Williams and Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews spoke about the five people shot in Durham Thursday that included a 16-year-old boy who died at the hospital. Ethan Hyman/ehyman@newsobserver.com

How to help

Anyone with information about any of these shootings is asked to contact CrimeStoppers at 919-683-1200 or online at durhamcrimestoppers.org.

CrimeStoppers pays cash rewards of up to $2,000 for information leading to arrests in felony cases and callers never have to identify themselves.

All of Thursdays shootings had corresponding 911 calls, and police encourage anyone who sees suspicious behavior to call 911.

The Durham Police Department is about 75% staffed, which Andrews said is a challenge.

The radio was on fire last night, she said. The officers are tired.

Shootings down in Durham in 2024

The five people shot Thursday come at a time when shootings were trending down in the Bull City.

As of March 23, the latest statistics available, 33 people had been shot in Durham this year, four of them fatally.

That compared to 46 and 49 people shot by the same day in 2022 and 2021, respectively, with 12 fatalities in 2022 and six fatalities in 2021.

Many of them are concentrated in an impoverished area of eastern Durham.

Were not seeing it all over Durham, but what we are seeing is behaviors that are responsive to the environment, Williams said.

Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews pauses during a press conference Friday, April 12, 2024. Chief Andrews spoke about the five people shot in Durham Thursday that included a 16-year-old boy who died at the hospital. Ethan Hyman/ehyman@newsobserver.com

Andrews said the general public shouldnt be worried and that Durham is a safe place to live and visit.

Despite what has happened, Durham is a beautiful place. We are vibrant community and dont want to be defined by this moment, by the last 24 hours, she said.

But Andrews encouraged families to have hard conversations before its too late.

When will it stop? When will our kids, when will these adults start thinking about their actions before choosing to pick up a gun and shoot and kill each other? she said.

Andrews said they are working with federal partners to end the violence. She was asked at the end of Fridays news conference what her message was for those pulling the trigger.

We will send you to prison for the rest of your life. We have the means and the ability to do it. I dont care how old you are, she said.
16 states sue Biden administration over controversial industry pause: 'It is part of a larger plan by this administration'

The Biden administration recently paused approvals for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facilities. In response, 16 states filed a lawsuit against the administration, claiming the move is illegal and detrimental to their economies.

What happened?

In January, the White House temporarily stopped approving permits for new LNG export facilities. The aim was to assess how gas exports affect our climate, the economy, and national security.

As detailed by The New York Times, Louisiana Attorney General Elizabeth B. Murrill, who leads the legal challenge, argues that the pause is illegal and was enacted without following proper regulatory processes. The lawsuit, filed in Louisiana federal court, asks a judge to end the pause.

"I'm not sure the American people feel the pain of this particular decision yet, but it is part of a larger plan by this administration to destroy the fossil fuel industry," Murrill told the outlet.

Why is this gas export pause important?

Natural gas is cleaner than coal, but the process of extracting, transporting, and liquefying it for export is energy-intensive and releases potent gases like methane, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Methane can leak at any point in the supply chain, contributing to rising global temperatures. Expanding LNG export capacity could lock in decades of additional pollution, making it harder to meet crucial climate goals.

The gas industry and some lawmakers, including Democratic senators John Fetterman and Bob Casey of Pennsylvania, oppose the pause, according to the Times. Murrill cited economic concerns and potential long-term consequences for gas supplies to Europe.

However, North America is still on track to nearly double export capacity by 2027 due to already-permitted projects. Environmentalists argue that any further expansion would exacerbate the overheating of our planet, which has led to an increase in devastating extreme weather events.

What is being done to address this issue?

The White House is studying the climate, economic, and security implications of LNG exports. Senior climate adviser John Podesta called this a "prudent" measure, as reported by the Times.

Environmentalists had protested the expansion of LNG exports for months, per the outlet, arguing that new gas facilities would worsen climate issues. President Biden acknowledged this in January, calling rising global temperatures "the existential threat of our time."

While the lawsuit plays out, individuals can reduce harmful pollution by relaxing their reliance on natural gas, improving home energy efficiency, and supporting clean energy policies. Every small action counts.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
One person was killed and 13 others injured Friday when a stolen big rig smashed through the front of the Department of Public Safety office building in Brenham, Texas.

The DPS for the Southeastern Region of Texas posted an update about the incident on X, saying that one person had died, and two suffered serious injuries.

DPS can confirm that 14 people were injured in todays tragic incident at the Brenham DPS Office.



One is now deceased, two have serious injuries, three were taken to a hospital & released, and eight were treated at the scene.



The Texas Rangers are leading this investigation. https://t.co/fd4UkpOdia  TxDPS - Southeast Texas Region (@TxDPSSoutheast) April 12, 2024

The driver of the stolen big rig has been identified as 42-year-old Clenard Parker, who has been taken into custody. DPS said Parker had been denied the renewal of his commercial drivers license on Thursday.

Police released a mugshot of Parker, whose charges were not disclosed.

NEW: Mugshot just posted for Clenard Parker, the man DPS says drove a stolen 18-wheeler into a DPS office this morning in Brenham. @NBCDFW https://t.co/5sR2GcCtk6 pic.twitter.com/9xgUJ3s4bv  Meredith Yeomans (@YeomansNBC5) April 12, 2024

During a press conference Friday, Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura said the crash had been deliberate, and that Parker had backed up the truck with the intention of ramming it into the building a second time before he was detained, according to the Associated Press.

No DPS staff members were seriously injured, according to a statement from Republican state Senator Lois Kolkhorst. One staff member was briefly trapped in the building.

This shameful and murderous act will not be tolerated in my hometown or our state, state Sen. Kolkhorst wrote in a post on X.

News footage from ABC7 Chicago, showed a large red semi-truck with a flatbed, covered in debris in front of a large hole in the crumbling facade of the building.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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1 dead, 13 injured after stolen semi-truck is rammed into Texas DPS office

1 dead, 13 injured after stolen semi-truck is rammed into Texas DPS office

One person was killed and 13 others were injured Friday when a stolen semi careened into a Department of Public Safety office in Brenham, Texas.

The truck was being pursued by multiple law enforcement vehicles when it crashed into the office, DPS Sgt. Justin Reese said at a news conference. The driver had been denied a commercial driver's license at the location Thursday, he said.

The suspect was identified as Clenard Parker, 42.

While he was there Thursday, "the drivers license staff advised Parker that he was not eligible to renew his commercial drivers license," Reese said.

The person who died has not been identified publicly. Five others were hospitalized, officials said. Eight people were treated at the scene and released, they said.

Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura said the driver tried to back up and crash into the building again but was thwarted by first responders, preventing further tragedy.

"There would have been a collapse of that building," the mayor said at the news conference.

Several officers took the suspect into custody, Reese said. He was being held at the Washington County Jail, he said.

Multiple people were seriously injured Friday after a commercial vehicle ran into a Department of Public Safety office in Brenham, Texas, police said. (KPRC)

A Washington County Sheriff's Office deputy and possibly other law enforcement officers came across the tractor-trailer near a McDonald's not far from the DPS office, Reese said.

Multiple law enforcement units, including the deputy's, tried to stop the truck, but the driver led authorities on a pursuit on U.S. 290 headed west and then, using its loop, east, before moving toward the DPS office, he said.

"The stolen 18-wheeler took a hard right turn" into the structure, Reese said.

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough said the incident was intentional and done by the suspect who was denied a CDL yesterday.

He returned today with intent to harm. Continued prayers for the DPS staff, troopers and civilians affected, Keough said in a Facebook post.

State Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, said the familiar office is part of a common experience for the community.

Weve taken our children to get their drivers license there," she said at the news conference. "Ive gotten my drivers license there. Its a place of public service."

She continued, "And so what weve seen today is an act of violence."

Three of the injured were taken to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, where theyve been stabilized, a hospital spokesperson said. They all suffered minor injuries from debris from the building, the spokesperson said.

Aerial video from NBC News affiliate KPRC of Houston shows a large semi in the parking lot of the office, aimed at the building and partially backed out into the street.

The helicopter video shows that the entrance of the building appears to be severely damaged.

The public was asked to stay away from the area, Texas DPS said on X.

Texas Rangers were leading an investigation into the crash, officials said.

"The building is not going to be usable at this point, so it's going to be shut down for a little while," Texas DPS Maj. Gerald Brown said at the news conference.

Brenham is located about 73 miles northwest of Houston.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
In 1878, this bell saved its church from fire. Now, it will be rededicated as a new automated system is installed.

St. Mary's Church in Fond du Lac still has its original bell from 1866. Previously rung by hand, the bell will get an automation installation April 15.

FOND DU LAC  One of Fond du Lac's oldest churches will soon have a new story to tell.

As St. Mary's Church celebrates a new bell automation system, Holy Family Catholic Community invites the community to a Bell Rededication Ceremony at 11:50 a.m. April 15 outside the church, 59 E. Merrill Ave.

The ceremony will include a blessing, and then a small reception after the 12:10 p.m. Mass inside the church.

The 2,000-pound bronze bell was installed in 1866 when St. Mary's Church was first built and moved into the tower when the current church was built in 1902. It has rung over downtown Fond du Lac ever since.

'Remember when ...': Remember when Madame Kuony taught culinary arts out of her mansion? Heres the story of the Postilion.

Named the "Immaculate Conception," the bell was cast in New York and inscribed with the words "Mary conceived without sin, pray for us" in German, as many of the parishioners at the time were German, according to John J. Schmitz's "More than Brick and Stone: A History of St. Marys Parish."

According to Holy Family, the bell saved the church from fire in 1878: lightning struck the spire, and the force of it caused the bell to ring, alerting the local policemen and Engine No. 5 firefighters.

Thus far, 158 years of ushers have rung the bell by hand to signal Mass and other special occasions, but starting April 15, the new automated system will ring the bell on the hour until 9 p.m., as well as five minutes before Mass, and with funerals and weddings. The prayer "The Angelus" will ring out over the city at noon and 6 p.m.

Beernuts redevelopment: Redevelopment at the Brickle Building is one step closer to fruition with approval of development agreement

While the ceremony's date and time is dependent on the new system's installation schedule, it is subject to change.

For more information or updates, visit the Holy Family Catholic Community Fond du Lac Facebook page or hffdl.org.

Contact Daphne Lemke at dlemke@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Fond du Lac Reporter: Fond du Lac St. Mary's Church rededicates bell after automation
19-year-old vanishes on date. Then severed leg is found in park, Wisconsin cops say

As two men walked through a Wisconsin park to the shoreline, they were stopped in their tracks by a terrifying sight  a severed leg on the beach.

The leg belonged to 19-year-old Sade Robinson, Wisconsin deputies later learned after DNA testing. She vanished during a first date in Milwaukee with 33-year-old Maxwell Anderson, authorities said.

Anderson was charged with intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse and arson, according to court documents. He appeared in court the morning of April 12.

Andersons attorney did not immediately respond to McClatchy News request for comment.

The first date

According to text conversations obtained by deputies, Robinson and Anderson arranged a first date the evening of April 1 at a Milwaukee restaurant.

Theyre seen having casual conversation at Twister Fisherman and later leaving together, security footage from the restaurant showed, according to court documents.

Records from Life360, an app that tracks the location of a persons phone, indicated Robinson went from the restaurant to Andersons apartment, a deputy with the Milwaukee County Sheriffs Office said in the complaint.

Between 3 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., Robinsons phone was discovered at Warnimont Park in Cudahay, the same location where her severed leg was discovered later that day, according to the complaint. Shortly after 4:30 a.m., Life360 records show the phone began to move, but the battery died.

Approximately three hours after Robinsons last Life360 location on April 2, fire officials found Robinsons Honda Civic, but it looked to have been set on fire, authorities said.

On April 4, after pinpointing Anderson as a person of interest, deputies searched his Milwaukee apartment. In the bedroom, they discovered blood-stained bedding and blood on the walls leading to the basement, according to the complaint.

Though police had found Robinsons car and searched Andersons home, the rest of the 19-year-olds remains were still missing.

Where were Robinsons remains?

While canvassing the area where Robinsons car was found on April 6, investigators found a human foot, the deputy wrote in the complaint. As they kept looking, they discovered a piece of human flesh, putting together that these remains, along with the leg, belonged to Robinson.

While searching through the car, investigators said they found the clothes Robinson was wearing the night she went missing  namely the black puffer coat, light blue ripped jeans, and white shoes, along with her dark greyish-brown purse.

Investigators also believe they found the remains of her phone, according to court documents.

Security footage from a nearby liquor store, the deputy said in the complaint, showed Anderson with a tan backpack and another person near the car when it was on fire.

The video, according to court documents, revealed a person in a blue jacket appearing to be in shock as Anderson walks away from the car. The man attempted to flag down passing cars, yelling he did that, pointing at Anderson, according to documents.

The man also yelled for someone to call the fire department, authorities said.

The witness later told police he saw Anderson, wearing a tan backpack, get out of Robinsons Honda Civic and light the car on fire, according to documents. Anderson then walked away from the car toward the witness.

Anderson was later seen on a bus wearing the same tan backpack.

Anderson was taken into custody April 4, WTMJ reported. He was charged on April 12.

Between 2014 to 2022, Anderson was convicted of domestic abuse, disorderly conduct, intimidating a witness and destruction of property, among other charges, according to CBS 58.

Cudahay is about a 7-mile drive south of Milwaukee.

If you are experiencing domestic violence and need someone to talk to, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for support at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

Young kids found abandoned in filthy apartment as mom goes on cruise, Texas cops say

Dean impregnated high school student twice  then coerced abortion, Chicago lawsuit says

Dad rams car with kids and wife inside, then assaults her in front of them, MI cops say
RIVERDALE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Two individuals were arrested and two others are wanted following an alleged carjacking incident in Riverdale when they previously asked the victim to pick them up, the Fresno County Sheriffs Office said.

Deputies say just after 11 p.m. on March 21, they were dispatched to the 2100 block of S. Walnut Avenue in Riverdale for a report of a carjacking. The victim says a group of people he knew needed a ride, so he agreed to pick them up.

According to sheriffs officials, once he arrived he encountered four people. Two of them, 27-year-old Cecil Love of Hanford and 34-year-old Mercedes Donez of Riverdale approached and assaulted him. The victim escaped this attack and while running away, Donez nearly ran over him with his own vehicle as she and her partner fled the scene.

Deputies say the victim avoided further injury and dialed 911 for help.

On Thursday, sheriffs officials say they served a search warrant in the Riverdale area. During the search in Riverdale, detectives in Kings County contacted them to let them know that the suspects were seen in Lemoore. Deputies responded to the area of 18th Avenue and Fain Drive in Lemoore and took both into custody.

Mercedes Donez

Cecil Love

According to the Fresno County Sheriffs Office, Mercedes Donez was booked into the Fresno County Jail on suspicion of carjacking, assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a stolen vehicle, and possession of stolen property. Cecil Love is in jail facing alleged charges of carjacking.

This is an ongoing investigation. Sheriffs officials say two other suspects remain outstanding, and ask anyone who might have any additional information regarding this case to contact them at 559-600-3111.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
For many years, the seas and oceans have been invisible in the climate crisis. The climate-regulating capacity of this great body of water and its nutritional role for humanity are changing at a dizzying pace due to rising temperatures, overfishing and the large garbage gyres formed by ocean currents. This troubling panorama was discussed in Barcelona, where UNESCO organized the Oceans Decade Conference between April 10 and 12.

Vidar Helgesen, 55, who has been assistant director-general of UNESCO for just over a month and heads the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, attended the conference at the Barcelona International Convention Center (CCIB). A lawyer by training, he was Minister of Environment and Climate in his home country of Norway and was also executive director of Nobel Foundation Organization. His diplomatic work and his fight for the preservation of the environment paved the way for his role in UNESCO.

Question. The Ocean Decade Conference seeks to make the worlds oceans cleaner, healthier and more resilient by using science as a fundamental pillar. What is the most urgent challenge, and what are the objectives set by UNESCO for 2030?

Answer. Its hard to say. They are all interrelated. We cannot escape the fact that climate change is now having effects at dramatic speeds in the worlds oceans. We need to save the ocean to save the planet. The Ocean Decade Conference is not only about scientists coming together. Its a mobilization of science, politics, philanthropy and business to expand our knowledge so that we know how, when and where to act.

Q. How would you define the current state of the oceans?

A. Its dramatic. The effects of plastic pollution, illegal fishing and the agricultural industry are not the same all over the world. Europe is warming twice as fast as the world average, and the Arctic is warming four times as fast. We must continue making efforts and investments into monitoring mechanisms that can combat issues such as overfishing.

Vidar Helgesen has been fighting for the preservation of the environment for years. Albert Garcia

Q. The year 2023 was the hottest in history. Figures from various research centers such as the School of Marine, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences at the University of Miami reveal that there were 400 consecutive days of record-breaking ocean temperatures in the North Atlantic. How do these episodes impact ecosystems and coastal communities?

A. In several ways. One is that ecosystems are moving. High temperatures are pushing fish migrations in coastal areas that depend on fishing. For example, in my country [in the Arctic] much larger Atlantic cod have been found because of the high temperatures. Scientists believe the Arctic cod could essentially disappear. Coral reef bleaching, which is causing biodiversity problems, is another example. We need better observation systems to see what is happening in real time.

One is that ecosystems move. High temperatures are promoting fish migrations in coastal areas where they did not occur before and depend on fishing. For example, in my country (in the Arctic) much larger cod has been found coming from the Atlantic due to the high temperatures. Scientists believe that they may disappear in the long term. The bleaching of coral reefs, which is a problem for ecosystems, is another example. We need to observe real time what is going on.

Q. Some scientists have warned about a possible collapse of the AMOC marine current, which regulates the temperate climate in Europe. What are the chances of this happening?

A. It is one of the big uncertainties. Its possible to prevent if we take efficient and strong climate action now. But if we continue on the present trajectory of climate emissions it will have dramatic consequences, although we dont exactly know what they will be.

Q. Overfishing is another of the issue that was discussed in Barcelona, and one of the biggest problems facing the oceans. What can be done to address it?

A. First, listen to the science assessments, which determine how much catch can be taken and where it can be done. And then translate that science into policies that are rigorously enforced. Monitoring, control, satellites and other mechanisms at sea, but also at port. It is in the interest of fishers because if you overfish this year, youll see fewer fish in the future.

Q. A couple of years ago, the Spanish Government sighted Moroccan vessels using mile-long nets to fish in the westernmost area of the Mediterranean. This fishing system, which is lethal for many marine species, has been prohibited in Europe since 2002 and, in Morocco, since 2022.

A. It is the most difficult part of good fisheries management: enforcement. You need to have good monitoring mechanism and enforcement. New technology makes that easier, because you can observe by satellite, GPS systems, drone. But you also need to have the capacity to interject and demand accountability for violating the law.

Q. How do you propose to achieve international cooperation to save the oceans, seas and marine ecosystems from climate change?

A. Although todays world is polarized, we have seen in recent years a number of very good achievements in the ocean domain, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change and the World Trade Organizations agreement to end subsidies that contribute to overfishing in many countries. These are signs that the world is coming together, even when there are conflicts that otherwise challenge international cooperation. Especially when we all have a responsibility to point to what would be the consequences of climate change and biodiversity on the cost of living. We are damaging production capacity, so there will be food shortages and significantly worse price hikes.

Q. Tons of plastic waste and debris are building up in the sea. What can be done to stop the sea from being a dumping ground for plastic?

A. It is another of the big problems in our relationship with the ocean. It is difficult because we assume that plastic production will double between now and 2045. We need governments to consider how their production patterns in their country actually look in practice and what are the major sources of plastic pollution. Still today there is no global overview of the extent and the effects of plastic pollution, which seriously harms marine life.

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A pair of retired deputies will face the current sheriffs wife in the June Republican primary for York Countys top law enforcement job.

Yet by Wednesday, there could be more.

Republican candidates have until Wednesday to file for York County sheriff after the county party reopened filing earlier this week. Multiple candidates means the possibility of a runoff after the June 11 Republican primary.

If no candidate gets 50 percent of the vote plus one on June 11, there would be a runoff of the top two vote-getters on June 25, said Alan Helms, York County Voter Registration and Elections director.

There is no limit to the number of Republican candidates who can file provided they meet the legal qualifications for the office, Helms said.

Three Republicans had filed as of Friday at 5 p.m. when the elections office closed, according to Helms and the S.C. Election Commission Website that tracks candidates statewide. No Democrat or anyone from another party filed for sheriff during regular filing March 16 through April 1.

The general election is Nov. 5.

Republican filing was reopened because current Republican Sheriff Kevin Tolson filed for the seat March 18, but withdrew from the race after his wife, Beth Bryant Tolson, filed as a Republican for the seat on the last day of filing on April 1. That left her as the one candidate, and South Carolina law allowed the party to reopen filing.

The public and several area elected Republicans pressured York County Republican Party leaders to reopen filing.

Who is officially running so far?

Chris Blevins became an official candidate Friday afternoon, a day after Heath Clevenger filed. Both Blevins and Clevenger recently retired as lieutenants after more than 25 years of service.

Blevins filing Friday came after his campaign signs were already put up Thursday throughout York County. Blevins, 52, has operated businesses since he retired.

The Herald first reported Monday that Clevenger was running even before the county Republicans re-opened filing in a vote by party leaders Tuesday night. Clevenger, 47, officially filed as a Republican Thursday.

Beth Tolson remains a candidate. The Herald was first to report her candidacy on April 1, and that Kevin Tolson was withdrawing from the race. She has more than 30 years experience in law enforcement, and is the daughter of former sheriff Bruce Bryant.

Whats at stake?

The sheriff is paid an annual salary of $209,260.83. The sheriff runs the county jail and has more than 300 employees in law enforcement and detention.

The sheriffs office is separate from municipal police departments in Rock Hill, Fort Mill, York, Clover, and Tega Cay, and has countywide jurisdiction. York County has almost 300,000 residents.

In South Carolina, any registered voter can vote in one party primary in the county where they live. South Carolina voters do not register to vote as Republican, Democrat or unaffiliated as voters do in North Carolina and some other states.

What happens next?

Filing for the Republican nomination for sheriff ends Wednesday at noon. Other current and retired law enforcement officials have been talked about as potential candidates by party members.

The filing fee for sheriff is $7,770.43. The sheriff must have at least five years of law enforcement experience to hold the office under state law. The sheriff elected in November will take office in early 2025.

Kevin Tolson was first elected sheriff in 2016 and re-elected in 2020. He told The Herald on April 1 he plans to serve out the rest of his term before taking a job with a non-profit that assists first responders and law enforcement across the country.
20 million people lost their Medicaid coverage in the last year. Heres what happened to them

Justin Gibbs had finally gotten his high blood pressure under control with a combination of three medications. But after he had his Medicaid coverage terminated in December amid a nationwide eligibility review, he had to go without one medication for a week and a second for several days, sparking fears that the delicate balance would unravel.

I was concerned that my blood pressure would spike, and I wouldnt have any way to regulate it, said Gibbs, 53, a married father of four who works multiple part-time jobs.

Justin Gibbs is proactive about his health so he can eventually see his 1-year-old son get married and have children. - Courtesy Justin Gibbs

Fortunately, the Miamisburg, Ohio, resident suffered no ill effects and was able to pick up new prescriptions when his Affordable Care Act policy kicked in in January. Hell soon start a job with employer coverage.

But a sizable share of the other 20.1 million Americans who were disenrolled from Medicaid in the so-called unwinding over the past year are not so lucky.

Nearly a quarter of adults who say they were disenrolled report being uninsured now, according to a survey released Friday by KFF, which has tallied terminations since they began in April 2023. The survey sheds light on the effects of the process on enrollees and the consequences, which are not well tracked by states and the federal government.

About half of those disenrolled subsequently regained their Medicaid coverage, and more than a quarter are now covered through an employer, Medicare, an Affordable Care Act exchange or another source, KFF found.

Still, 7 in 10 of those disenrolled were left uninsured at some point, and more than half of them said they had to skip or delay getting care or medications during that period, the survey found. The loss of coverage also prompted three-quarters of them to worry about their physical health and 60% to fear for their mental health.

It was disruptive to peoples lives, said Ashley Kirzinger, KFFs director of survey methodology.

Overall, 81% of adults enrolled in Medicaid prior to the unwinding said they were not disenrolled during the last year, the survey found.

Years of continuous coverage

Tens of millions of Americans didnt have to worry about renewing or losing their Medicaid coverage for the first three years of the Covid-19 pandemic, thanks to a 2020 congressional relief package that barred states from disenrolling residents whom they deemed no longer qualify in exchange for enhanced federal funding. By the time that provision expired last spring, enrollment had ballooned by nearly a third to more than 94 million people.

Since eligibility reviews and terminations resumed, nearly 44 million people, or 46%, have had their coverage renewed, according to a KFF compilation of state and federal data. More than 30 million people, or 32%, have renewals remaining. The rates widely vary by state.

About 1 in 5 people with Medicaid have been disenrolled. Of this group, 69% were dropped for so-called procedural reasons, according to KFF. This typically happens when enrollees do not complete the renewal form, often because it may have been sent to an old address, it was difficult to understand or it wasnt returned by the deadline. Some people, however, may not return their forms because they know they earn too much to qualify or they obtained coverage elsewhere, such as from an employer.

The high rate of procedural terminations has raised red flags for federal officials and advocates because at least some of these folks likely remain eligible for Medicaid but may become uninsured.

Difficult process for some

More than half of Medicaid enrollees who maintained coverage did not have to complete a renewal package because their states verified their ongoing eligibility through other data sources, such as state wage databases, according to KFFs compilation.

But among those surveyed, two-thirds took action to renew their coverage. Some 58% of those who tried to reenroll had at least one problem during the process, most commonly long waits on hold on the phone for assistance.

Gibbs recalled one day that he was on hold for 6.5 hours before he had to hang up to go to work. He had questions about the documentation he needed and wanted to make sure that what he submitted online was received since he did not get a confirmation notice.

I think its purposefully difficult, said Gibbs, who owned a dance studio with his wife until they had to shutter it during the pandemic.

While many people KFF surveyed thought the process was easy, about 3 in 10 said that figuring out what documents were required and then gathering and submitting that paperwork was very or somewhat difficult. Some said they didnt have reliable internet service to complete the forms, so they had to do it by mail, which was more complicated.

They were super confused about what documents they were supposed to provide, Kirzinger said.

Those living in states that did not expand Medicaid  10 states as of December  said they had to submit paperwork, such as proof of citizenship, that KFF was not expecting, she said. Its unclear whether the states actually required those documents or the enrollees just thought they were needed.

Just over a quarter of enrollees had assistance renewing, while another 17% wanted help but did not receive it.

When JP Peters learned last year that he had to renew his coverage, he panicked, fearing that he could be left uninsured.

I cant afford that  even one small trip to the doctor is expensive, said Peters, 57, who serviced irrigation and pump systems before becoming disabled in 2022. Medical bills can add up like an avalanche.

The Punta Gorda, Florida, resident was fortunate that he could lean on a friend, who is a retired nurse, to help enroll him in Medicare. Even so, the process was not without its hitches. The start date of his new coverage was wrong initially and had to be updated at his local Social Security office. Because of the uncertainty, he held off on some needed dental work and on having tests done for a breathing issue for a few months.

Now that he has coverage and a new inhaler, he is breathing easier.

The unwinding was an aggravating inconvenience, he said.

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22-year-old arrested after party gone bad deadly shooting in Fresno, police say

22-year-old arrested after party gone bad deadly shooting in Fresno, police say

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The Fresno Police Department announced Friday the arrest of a 22-year-old for the death of 25-year-old Raymond Martinez following a deadly shooting last month, described by officers as a party gone bad.

Police say on March 8 at around 10:30 p.m. officers were called to an apartment complex in the 900 block of West Dakota Avenue for a series of ShotSpotter alerts.

22-year-old Gabriel Torres (image courtesy of the Fresno Police Department)

Investigators say when they arrived they found three people shot.

Two men were transported to Community Regional Medical Center with gunshot wounds. However, 25-year-old Raymond Martinez, died at the scene, according to police.

Investigators say they identified 22-year-old Gabriel Torres as the suspect in the death of Martinez and the shooting of the other two victims.

Police say Torres was arrested without incident on Friday and is currently in custody at the Fresno County Jail. His bail is set at $3.5 million.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
Caroleene Dobson is a Republican candidate for the 2nd Congressional District. (Courtesy Caroleene Dobson for Congress)

This is the last in a series of profiles of the candidates in the April 16 2nd Congressional District runoff. Tuesday: House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels. Wednesday: Attorney Shomari Figures. Thursday: Former Sen. Dick Brewbaker.



Caroleene Dobson said Alabamas 2nd Congressional District needs a conservative candidate who will fight for a better Alabama and America for our families.

Dobson, a candidate in next Tuesdays run-off for the GOP nomination, said that she is running to represent families like hers who are concerned about the path the country is taking.

We need a strong conservative whos not afraid to go to Washington and fight for a safer country for our kids, to fight for the lives of the unborn, to fight for more opportunities here and to fight to ensure that our kids can freely worship God, Dobson said in a phone interview.

Caroleene Dobson

Age: 37

Residence: Montgomery

Occupation: Real estate attorney

Education: A.B., History and Literature, Harvard College, 2009; J.D., Baylor University School of Law, 2012.

Party: Republican

Previous political experience/campaign: First-time political candidate.

Fundraising: Dobson raised $1.2 million and spent $1.1 million through March 27.

Dobson expressed concerns over the farm bill, a law passed every few years, stalling in Congress amid the impasse over the recent spending bills.

We really do need our congressional leaders to be focused on getting a farm bill passed, but also again, making the farm bill a lot more about our food producers, she said.

With 80% of the farm bill spending going to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), according to an U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry analysis by Senate Republicans, she said more money needs to go into supporting the farming industry. About 19% of the farm bill goes to farming services, according to the analysis.

Over 80% of the farm bill actually is just dedicated to addressing entitlements and food stamps, as opposed to supporting needs and enabling policy that makes it easier for our food producers, she said.

Aside from the farm bill, she said that Congress needs to focus on achieving energy independence. Dobson said the lack of energy independence is keeping production costs high, which is impacting the price people pay for food.

It makes it harder for America to be food secure, which is a very critical part of national security that we often overlook, she said.

While the U.S. exports more energy than it imports, it still relies on foreign oil to meet its energy needs.

Farmers, particularly small family farmers, are paying the price of high energy costs, she said.

My familys farm, for instance  we just have a small farm, but probably representative of a lot of small farms to family farm  our fuel and fertilizer costs are up 143% of where they were when Biden took office, Dobson claimed.

Dobson also said she wants to abolish a 12% excise tax for heavy duty commercial vehicles. She said that is a challenge for trucking companies that are in the district.

Its also a huge barrier to entry for people that would want to start a small business that involves heavy duty commercial vehicles, she said.

She said that the district also used to have more family-owned logging businesses that no longer operate, which Dobson blamed on overregulation.

She said there is interest in the logging industry in Alabama, but with the loggers getting older, she asked, how are we going to harvest those trees and get them to mills?

On the border, Dobson said she supported building a border wall along the U.S.-Mexico Border and deporting immigrants who are living in the U.S. without authorization.

Immigration is very important to this country, but weve got people that are following the methods legally. Its a disservice to them to just fling open our southern borders and allow our country to, frankly, be invaded, she said.

Dobson said that currently, theres no way to vet the number of immigrants coming into the U.S., which she said is leading to a rise in crime. Research shows that immigration is associated with lower crime rates and crime in across the U.S. is decreasing.

The candidate also said she would defend the rights of the unborn, but she declined to say whether shed support a nationwide abortion ban.

The Supreme Court returned that matter to individual states and its a states rights issue. I commend the Alabama Legislature for its leadership in passing one of the most pro-life laws in the country that you know, actively protects life, she said.

Alabamas abortion ban effectively bans the practice in the state with no exceptions.

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The post 2nd Congressional District: Caroleene Dobson emphasizes agriculture, energy independence appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
3 injured in Russian attack on Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast

Russian forces launched a missile attack on a residential area of Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, injuring at least three people, the State Emergency Service said on April 12.

Settlements in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk Oblast suffer from daily Russian attacks due to their proximity to the front line. Heavy fighting continues in Donetsk Oblast as Russia seeks to occupy the entire region.

One missile reportedly hit a five-story building in Kostiantynivka, a city located less than 15 kilometers from Russian positions, causing fire on the balconies from the second to the fifth floors.

First responders put out the fire, which had spread over an area of 150 square meters, according to the statement.

Kostiantynivka comes under regular strikes by Russian forces. An attack on the city on April 9 reportedly killed three people, including a 13-year-old boy.

Over the past day, Russian troops launched attacks against 11 Ukrainian regions, killing five people and injuring at least 13 more, regional authorities said.

One civilian was wounded in the city of Krasnohorivka in Donetsk Oblast on April 11, Governor Vadym Filashkin said.

Read also: After 10 years of war, Krasnohorivka in new danger as Russia advances in the east

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Three former students at Hickory Hills Middle School adjudicated in juvenile court for their role in the physical assault of a classmate have been placed in state custody for an indefinite period of time.

The three female students, in juvenile custody since the Jan. 17 assault, have been remanded to the Division of Youth Services, which is part of the Missouri Department of Social Services.

It is the most serious consequence available, short of being certified to stand trial as an adult, in the Missouri juvenile justice system.

In a late January interview, parent Derick Moore said his 14-year-old daughter was leaving the Hickory Hills school gym  where students often gather after lunch until the bell rings  when she was attacked from behind.

Moore said his daughter was hit in the back of the head and knocked to the ground, where her head and neck were kicked and her face was bashed into the floor. He said while his daughter was being "stomped," her hair was pulled out by the "fist full."

She was initially rushed to the emergency room at Cox South for evaluation and treatment but in the days that followed, she repeatedly returned to the hospital because of a severe concussion, fractures in her orbital bone and hemorrhaging in her eye.

It was unclear what prompted the assault, which was allegedly recorded by one of the students involved in the assault and others who witnessed the incident.

The three students taken into custody at the scene were transferred to juvenile authorities. Two girls, both 14, were in the Greene County juvenile facility and the other girl, whose age was not released, was placed in the Christian County juvenile facility.

Bill Prince, chief juvenile officer in Greene County, during an August 2022 interview.

Bill Prince, chief juvenile officer in Greene County, said the students faced a judge in early March on the assault allegations and the "court found that those allegations were true."

It is similar but not the same as being found guilty in adult criminal court. It means a judge found that the juvenile committed a violation of the criminal law, which is a delinquent act.

Following adjudication, the court can place the juvenile on probation  with different levels of oversight  or commit the juvenile to DYS custody. He said there are facilities in Springfield and nearby communities.

Prince said unlike adults, juveniles are not "sentenced" to a specific period of time, like three years. Instead, they are committed for an "undetermined period" because they will be evaluated, offered services and treatment, and complete programs.

"Usually the kids will be put in there, they will work a program tailored for the needs of the youth," Prince said. "A lot of it is dependent upon the kiddo and how quickly they work through things and how they're doing."

More: Hickory Hills dad talks about extent of injuries daughter suffered during school assault

He said they can be held up to age 19  or even age 21 in severe cases  but once released, typically back to their families, they are placed on an "after care" or "community care" plan. During that period, DYS typically continues to provide a level of supervision.

Prince said DYS commitments are reserved for "cases where it's either a really, really serious offense" or when juvenile services have been "working with the kid for a long time and have tried to take them through an escalating series of responses and they continue to engage in problematic behavior."

"That is what DYS is reserved for," he said.

Asked if any of the three students committed to DYS had a past history with the juvenile system, Prince said he was not allowed to disclose that information.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: 3 juveniles placed in state custody after Hickory Hills school assault
Former President Trumps first criminal trial is set to begin Monday in New York.

Trump is charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. He denies all charges.

The underlying events revolve around hush money payments made to porn actress Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal in the closing days of the 2016 presidential campaign. Daniels and McDougal say they had sexual relationships with Trump, which he again denies.

Trumps legal team has tried several times to postpone the trial further, but those efforts appear to have run out of road.

Here are the big questions that loom now.

How big a spectacle will Trump create?

New York law requires Trump to be present throughout the trial.

The proceedings are expected to last around six weeks, running every weekday except Wednesday. The trial will not be televised, and photographers will have only very brief access to the courtroom each day.

Trump is the first former president to be charged with a crime. He could calculate that his interests lie in creating as large and dramatic a spectacle as possible.

The former president has approached previous court appearances this way, on at least one occasion posting a video from his motorcade as he traveled to an arraignment in New York.

Trump is virtually certain to hold impromptu press conferences on a regular basis. He will assert  as he always does  that this case and the others he faces are part of a politicized effort to hobble his 2024 candidacy.

There is, of course, a market for this among Trumps stalwart supporters in the MAGA movement.

But his fiery pronouncements, repeated over the weeks of the trial, might hold less appeal for uncommitted voters.

Will Team Trump seek further delay  or try to get it over with?

The schedule for the trial has one obvious impact on the presidential campaign  it curtails the amount of time Trump has available to hit the campaign trail.

Right now, that may not be a massive problem. Trump could still hold campaign rallies on weekends  and those events might engender even more interest than usual in the middle of his trial. The presidential race is not yet at a point where either he or President Biden would be expected to be on the stump seven days a week.

Still, once the trial process begins with jury selection Monday, Trump might want to get it all over without delay.

Its true that he has tried to stall all his cases. But that efforts been about trying to push all trials  and therefore all the verdicts  past the date of the election. The chances of him achieving that goal in New York appear very small at this point.

The choice then is a binary one: Trump will be found guilty or acquitted.

A guilty verdict would plainly be very damaging. But, from Trumps perspective, it would be a bit less bad if such a verdict arrived months before voters were actually pulling the lever.

An acquittal could be used by Trump to suggest that all the cases against him are flimsy.

Can prosecutors prove a felony?

The offense with which Trump is charged is usually a misdemeanor rather than a felony. But it can fall into the latter category when prosecutors contend, as they do here, that a defendant cooked the books as part of another crime.

The case being made by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) and his team is that Trump falsified business records in order to conceal breaches of state and federal election law.

Some facts are undisputed: Trumps then-fixer and attorney Michael Cohen paid Daniels $130,000 shortly before the 2016 election to keep her claims of having had sex with Trump a decade earlier out of the public domain.

Trump, through his company, then reimbursed Cohen with payments that were officially classified as a retainer for his legal services.

Braggs felony case, simply put, is that the $130,000 was paid in furtherance of Trumps political campaign and should therefore have been declared as such.

But even legal experts who are broadly unsympathetic toward Trump have misgivings about Braggs strategy.

For a start, Trump has not been charged with any such election law violation.

Secondly, its not even entirely clear that the classification of the payments to Cohen was false. Hush money payments are not illegal. Trump could argue Cohen was indeed rendering a legal service.

Trump can also take hope from an unexpected quarter  the case of a once-prominent Democrat.

A dozen years ago, former Sen. John Edwards (D-N.C.) walked away unscathed from six federal charges over payments made to support a woman with whom he had an extramarital affair and with whom he had a child.

Those events took place against the backdrop of Edwardss quest for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination.

At trial, Edwardss defense team argued the payments were not made for a political purpose but to conceal a personally embarrassing and sensitive episode.

The jury acquitted Edwards of one charge and deadlocked on the rest. The Justice Department dropped the case soon after.

Does Trump keep attacking the judge and his family?

Trump is under a gag order in the case thanks to public criticisms of Judge Juan Merchan and the judges daughter, Loren Merchan.

Trump recently accused Loren Merchan of being a rabid Trump hater, apparently alluding to her work for Democrats as a political consultant.

Trump has frequently attacked Merchan himself, who was not covered under his own initial order that prohibited Trump from attacking witnesses, prosecutors or jurors.

Merchan expanded the gag order after some of the attacks on his daughter, contending that Trumps pattern of attacking family members of presiding jurists  serves no legitimate purpose.

Trump duly shot back on social media, complaining, They can talk about me, but I cant talk about them??? That sounds fair, doesnt it?

Trump will be loath to back down from his trademark attacks. But there could be real consequences if he continues, up to and including imprisonment.

Do President Biden and the Democrats weigh in?

Biden has for the most part stayed away from direct comment on Trumps criminal cases. The last thing the incumbent president wants is to provide ammunition for Trumps contention that the cases are politically motivated.

But Biden, in the midst of a tough campaign, has begun to mock Trump for conduct around the edges of his legal woes.

Late last month, as Trump struggled to raise a massive bond in order to appeal a $355 million civil fraud penalty, Biden told a fundraising crowd a tale about this defeated looking man who had come up to him asking for his help to escape crushing debt.

Bidens punchline was that he had replied, Donald, Im sorry, I cant help you.

There could be more of that as Trumps criminal trial goes forward.

Even so, the sharper attacks are likely to come from Biden surrogates and other Democrats rather than the president himself.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A high school principal in New Jersey could face jail time for the way he conducted himself during a controversial confrontation with a student last year and the fallout has led to massive debate in two suburban towns.

Frank Sanchez, the principal of Columbia High School in the South OrangeMaplewood School District, was arrested and charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child and simple assault last month in connection to an incident that occurred last year.

Investigators say in March of 2023, Mr Sanchez, a white and Latino man, confronted a Black female student who was accused of bullying other students in the stairwell of the high school.

In an incident that lasted less than a minute, Mr Sanchez physically blocked the student from leaving the stairwell and entering the cafeteria. He said he was breaking up a fight.

But one month after the incident, the student filed an affirmative action complaint, alleging that Mr Sanchez grabbed her, accused her of bullying other students and pushed her against the wall. She said there was no fight or impending fight for him to break up. She also said she sustained minor injuries from the incident with Mr Sanchez.

Frank Sanchez, the principal of Columbia High School (SOMATelevision / YouTube)

The facts of the incident are subjectively disputed. Enough so, parents, administrators, students and others in South Orange and Maplewood communities have gotten involved in the heated debate about race, class and mistrust in the school system.

Following the affirmative action complaint, the school commissioned an independent investigation into the incident. The findings of that, though disputed, recommended appropriate actions for what they described as a pattern of excessive force against Black female students.

Black Parents Workshop, an organisation that advocates for education equality for Black students, condemned Mr Sanchezs behaviour and supported the students complaint. At the end of the year, they asked the school board not to renew Mr Sanchezs contract.

But other parents supported retaining Mr Sanchez, believing he is a good leader in the high school.

Last month, the Essex County Prosecutors Office filed an arrest warrant for Mr Sanchez on the charges, which carry a maximum sentence of 10 years. He turned himself in.

Mr Sanchezs union lawyer told The New York Times that videos from the incident do not support the charges.

Ive been doing this for a long time, and its not unusual for an administrator who breaks up a fight to then have the kid accuse him of doing something, Robert Schwartz told the newspaper.

The dangers of school violence have gained national attention recently with the case of Kaylee Gain, who was seriously injured during a high school fight.

For the time being, Mr Sanchez is on paid administrative leave.

Days after his arrest, students at the school held a walkout supporting Mr Sanchez. Across the town, lawn signs bearing Friends of Frank have popped up.

But Walter Fields, the founder of Black Parents Workshop said the incident was a shameful moment for the school district.

What will it take for Black children to feel safe in their own community? What will it take for this school district to take moral responsibility and provide Black children an education to which they are legally entitled? Mr Fields said.

My suggestion is stop having conversations on race and engaging in performative acts like hanging Black Lives Matter banners across streets and begin respecting the humanity of Black children. Is that too much to ask for? This is a shameful moment for this school district that adds to a shameful history in the South Orange-Maplewood School District.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  An 85-year-old Idaho woman is being called a hero after local prosecutors say she justifiably gunned down a man who broke into her home, handcuffed her to a chair, and told her repeatedly that he was going to kill her.

Using a pistol she kept under her pillow, Christine Jenneiahn turned the tables on the 39-year-old intruder and killed him in a gunfight in which she herself was shot several times. In the bloody aftermath, the octogenarian spent 10 hours on the floor, still handcuffed, until her disabled son could bring her a phone to call 911.

$10K reward offered for information on bald eagle shot in Cedar City

This case presents an easy analysis of self-defense and justifiable homicide, Bingham County Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Jolley said in a statement. He added: It also presents one of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of.

Jolley released a review of the case on Wednesday based on Jenneiahns statements, video footage, photographs and search warrant evidence. The prosecuting attorney noted that any reasonable person would believe it necessary to defend themselves or their disabled child under such circumstances.

The home invasion happened in the early morning hours of March 13 in Jenneiahns residence north of Blackfoot, Idaho. Officials identified the intruder as Derek Condon, of Blackfoot. EastIdahoNews reports the two were known to each other, and officials said the attack was not believed to be random.

According to investigators, Jenneiahn was sleeping when she was woken up around 2 a.m. by a man dressed in a military jacket and black ski mask pointing a flashlight and a gun in her face.

Condon struck Jenneiahn in the head, investigators believe, as blood was found on her pillow. He then ordered her out of bed and handcuffed her to a wooden chair in the living room, where he demanded to know if any valuables were in the house.

Condon left Jenneiahn to search the basement for safes, and there he discovered that Jenneiahns son was in the home. Condon became enraged that Jenneiahn didnt make him aware of this, prosecutors said, adding that he told her repeatedly that he was going to kill her.

When Condon was in the basement, Jenneiahn dragged the chair to her bedroom, where she kept a .357 Magnum revolver under her pillow. She returned to the living room and hid the pistol between the couch cushions. She waited to see what Condon would do next.

Jenneiahn reported to investigators that Condon told her several times he was going to kill her as he rummaged through the house. At one point, she decided that it was now or never, drew her gun from the couch and shot Condon, the prosecutor wrote.

Condon was still in the act of this violent home invasion when Christine chose to engage him with deadly force, Jolley said, noting that Idaho law makes it clear that no person should be placed in legal jeopardy when protecting themselves.

Jenneiahn shot at Condon twice, hitting him with both shots. Condon returned fire, emptying a 9mm pistol and striking Jenneiahn in the abdomen, leg, arm, and chest. Condon died in the kitchen while Jenneiahn waited for hours for her son to bring her a phone. Emergency crews responded and provided life-saving help.

That Christine survived this encounter is truly incredible, Jolley wrote. Her grit, determination, and will to live appeared to be what saved her that night.

The prosecutor added that if Condon would have survived, he would have charged him with attempted murder, kidnapping, burglary, and aggravated battery, among other felonies.

The Bingham County Sheriffs Office said in a social media post that it was not the departments intention to defame Condon or make the tragedy for his family worse with the information made public on Wednesday.

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We are simply releasing the facts of the case, and explaining that there was a victim involved that displayed heroism, fortitude, and a will to live that wed be remiss not to share, the department said.

According to EastIdahoNews, Jenneiahn has been released from Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center and is still recovering.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
DENVER (KDVR)  A 2020 shootout between rival motorcycle gangs in Arvada has resulted in nine felony convictions, including two guilty pleas to organized crime.

The blocks-long shootout between the Mongols and Hells Angels gangs killed a ranking Hells Angel member, left three people wounded by gunshots and resulted in serious injuries for others, according to the Arvada Police Department, which investigated the case and announced its outcome on Thursday.

Each of the nine charged defendants pled guilty to some felony crime, which also

caused significant disruption to the Mongols organization, police said in a press release.

Ex-Aurora cop found not guilty in pistol-whipping case

The four-year investigation spanned four states and involved local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, police said. Investigators raided gang members homes in Colorado and seized guns and phones, with search warrants also executed at the Mongols clubhouse in Arvada and in California, Utah and Tampa, Florida.

Nine people were arrested simultaneously in four states in January 2021 and extradited to Jefferson County, police said, with the final guilty plea among their cases coming earlier this month.

Motorcycle gang members plead guilty 4 years after Colorado shootout, police say

Two people pleaded guilty to the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act and were sentenced to more than two decades in prison.

It is important also to note that each defendant who pleaded guilty to the COCCA

counts had to admit to a factual basis that the Mongols OMG is a Criminal Enterprise

and engages in a Pattern of Organized Criminal Racketeering Activity that they were,

in fact, a part of, police said in the release.

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Here is the list of those defendants, as laid out by the police department:

Gregory Lawrence Guilty plea to Colorado Organized Crime Control Act, sentenced to 27 years in the Department of Corrections

Leon Matthew Dennis Guilty plea to Colorado Organized Crime Control Act, sentenced to 24 years in the Department of Corrections

Jared Chadwick Guilty plea to tampering with physical evidence. Also charged federally for being a felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced in Utah federal court to 28 months in federal prison. The Colorado sentence is running concurrently

Saint George Michael Gonzales Guilty plea to tampering with physical evidence, sentenced to 2 years probation

Kenneth Wayne Tischler Guilty plea to tampering with physical evidence, sentenced to 2 years probation

Vincent James Dominguez Guilty plea to second-degree assault, sentenced to 5 years in the Department of Corrections

Phillip Raymond Garcia Guilty plea to tampering with physical evidence, sentenced to 3.5 years probation

Daniel Ruben Goint Guilty plea to second-degree assault causing serious bodily injury and crime of violence, sentenced to 8 years in the Department of Corrections

Rafael Vargas Lozano Guilty plea to tampering with physical evidence, sentenced to 3 years probation



The Mongols have since relocated their Arvada clubhouse to Denver, police said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
An opinion piece that you describe, praises or criticizes, on the whole or partly, to cultural or entertainment work. It must be written by an expert on the matter

Dev Patel has always had an intelligent glint in his eye. From his big screen debut in Slumdog Millionaire to his role as a journalist in Aaron Sorkins series The Newsroom, the British actor usually brings a sense of peace, calm and intelligence to his performances. Perhaps that is why it is no surprise that, at 32, he has made his directorial debut with a film in favor of social outcasts, which he also produces, co-writes and stars in. The surprise is its genre: Monkey Man is a fierce action and martial arts film, revolving around hand-to-hand combat, dismemberment and knife fights.

Patel returns to India, the land of his ancestors, for his story of revenge that is strengthened by the creative arsenal applied to its sequences  and not only those of combat. While there was a serious lack of design in Danny Boyles Slumdog Millionaire, one of the worst choices for Oscar for Best Film in Oscar history, Monkey Man has at its heart a physical and moral entanglement, involving a sadistic police chief, a luxury brothel that serves as home to both fornication and power, and a ragged young man who seeks to atone for the death of his mother through the most savage forms of violence.

Monkey Man is also set in a slum overrun by gambling and fights, with Patel earning a few rupees as an underground bare fist fighter wearing a crude monkey mask. With its colors and the cameras handling of Bombays chaos, the movie has echoes of Brazils City of God.

Image from the movie 'Monkey Man.' Universal Pictures

A comparison can also easily be made with the John Wick saga, which has revolutionized commercial action and martial arts cinema in the past 10 years. Patel even mentions John Wick in one on-screen exchange. Yet, despite the similarities, the staging and editing of their spectacular fight sequences set them apart. In the four installments of the John Wick movies starring Keanu Reeves, the choreography regarding the confrontations is developed through a paradoxically harmonious staging of continuity, with general shots extended in time. The dynamics of their contenders and their movements are visualized with hardly any editing, almost like a classic fifties musical but instead of dances, there is physical destruction.

The action in Monkey Man, on the other hand, is not one of continuity, but of rupture. The cuts are incessant and move at an unrestrained pace; the shots come in quick succession, with barely a second or two between them. Patels handling of cinematic language is brutal. For a novice director, he displays a dazzling energy, cadence and expressiveness. This is demonstrated by three of the only four fights in the ring, each one based on a dynamic sense of space and narrative. The first is defined by the close-up shot, with the camera directed at the waist of the opponents or even lower  giving the viewers a sense of overwhelming closeness. The second offers a very different vision of the fight, which is both more poetic and exquisite. And the third uses surprise as the main exponent, and is raw and concise.

With rough textures, contrasting colors and ochre photography, reflecting the social mud in which most of the characters are stuck, Monkey Man only slips off kilter in the second half, when the Hindu demigod, Hanuman, assumes the tragic halo that envelops the protagonist. Although it gives him authenticity with respect to his lineage, the visualization is tinged with a somewhat tiresome messianic muddle of lyrical ambition.

Monkey Man Director: Dev Patel. Cast: Dev Patel, Sharlto Copley, Pitobash, Sobhita Dhuliwala. Genre: Action. United States, 2024. Duration: 121 minutes Release date: April 12.
A1A reopens in Flagler Beach after washout from storm closes section

Traffic on a section of A1A was rerouted from about 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday after storms caused this washout in the 3500 block of South Ocean Shore Boulevard (A1A) near the water tower in Flagler Beach, police said. The section of A1A was reopened about 5 p.m.

A stretch of A1A near the water tower in Flagler Beach reopened Thursday afternoon after a washout required a detour for several blocks, according to police.

The washout happened around 3 p.m. and it was repaired and the road reopened at about 5 p.m. Thursday, said Flagler Beach Police Chief Matt Doughney.

There were no injuries or crashes due to the washout, Doughney wrote in a text message.

The washout was in the 3500 block of South Ocean Shore Boulevard.

This washout shut down a section of A1A in the 3500 block in south Flagler Beach near the water tower, Flagler Beach Police said. The washout occurred about 3 p.m. Thursday and the road was reopened about 5 p.m.

Florida Department of Transportation crews corrected the problem.

The washout was caused by the "torrential downpour" on Thursday according to a post on the Flagler Beach Police Facebook page.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: A1A reopens in Flagler Beach after washout from storm closes section
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Starting with the graduating class of 2024, Abilene ISDs top 50% of graduates will be automatically accepted to attend Tarleton State University (TSU).

I had so many good times there: Former student remembers halls of Fannin Elementary as Abilene ISD looks to unload unused properties

As part of TSUs Distinguished High School Partners program, the university entered an agreement with Abilene ISD in March, accepting its top 50% of graduates. Qualifying students application fees will also be waived as part of this program.

Abilene ISD is proud to team with Tarleton State University in their Distinguished High School Partners program, said Dr. James Largent, Abilene ISD Interim Superintendent. This agreement will afford our students options when choosing their path after high school, and the attached scholarship dollars will benefit students and parents alike as they navigate the best options for their future.

Abilene ISD expects to save $36M in energy consumption as $29M project wraps up

Additionally, Abilene ISD spoke about a scholarship program students may look into as they apply to TSU. As part of the Presidents Guaranteed Scholarship Program, new college students who graduate in the top 50% of their high school class will be awarded anywhere from $500 to $4,000 in scholarships.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
MOSCOW (Reuters) -An aborted 2022 peace deal between Russia and Ukraine could be the basis for new negotiations but there is no sign that Kyiv is ready for talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.

President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said that Russia and Ukraine were on the verge of agreeing a deal to end hostilities at talks in Istanbul in April 2022, but that Ukraine backed away from it once Russian troops fell back from near Kyiv.

The deal is reported to have included clauses demanding that Ukraine adopt a geopolitically neutral status and not join NATO, limit the size of its armed forces and grant a special status to eastern Ukraine - all things which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has made clear he opposes.

In remarks on Thursday, Putin again raised the subject of potential peace talks and said he was open to what he called realistic negotiations.

But he is opposed to the two-day high-level conference to be hosted by Switzerland in June at Ukraine's request that seeks to achieve peace, saying it is pointless if Russia does not take part.

In Putin's view, the meeting does not take new realities into account, including Moscow's annexation of new territory in Ukraine.

Zelenskiy, meeting with students in western Ukraine on Friday, appeared to rule out using the 2022 talks as a basis for further discussions, saying the meetings at the time were not talks in a true sense.

The Ukrainian president said "no," when asked whether the 2022 talks in Belarus and Turkey had the potential to stop the war.

"Negotiations are when two sides want to come to an agreement. There are different aspects, but when there are two sides," he said in a video posted on his website.

"But when one side in any case, regardless of the country or the city, gives you an ultimatum, that is not negotiations."

A senior Ukrainian official has acknowledged that the two sides were close to an agreement in Turkey in 2022 but said Kyiv took the proposal no further because it did not trust the Russian side to carry out any agreement.

Peskov, Putin's spokesman, said a lot had changed since 2022, including what he said was the addition to Russian territory of four new regions, a reference to the parts of Ukraine which Moscow has claimed as its own.

But Peskov said the aborted Istanbul deal could still be the basis for new talks and that Russia was ready for that. When asked if Moscow sensed any readiness from the Ukrainian side for talks however, Peskov said: "No, we don't sense that."

Ukraine says it wants all of its territory back, including Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, and for every Russian soldier to leave its territory. It is trying to drive international talks on its stance which exclude Russia.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Maxim Rodionov;Editing by Andrew Osborn, Ron Popeski and Cynthia Osterman)
What Floridas 6-Week Abortion Ban Signals to the Rest of Us

Abortion attacks arent slowing down as Floridas six-week ban goes into effect and Arizonas Supreme Court recently paved the way to reinforce a Civil War-era law that criminalizes nearly all abortions.

The consequences could be catastrophic for Black reproductive health, exacerbating existing disparities in access to care and alarming rates of maternal mortality, advocates and health-care providers fear.

In the Southeast, Floridas Supreme Court decided to allow the ban, which Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law last year, to take effect 30 days after the announcement. While the ban limits access to abortion, effective May 1, the final decision on whether to enshrine abortion protections in the states constitution will be left up to Floridians through an amendment on the November ballot

Members of Florida Planned Parenthood PAC hold placards in Miami as they protest the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that overturned the landmark abortion case Roe v. Wade. (Chandan Khanna/AFP via Getty Images)

Its a consequential decision for all of the American South, where over half of the countrys Black population resides, and where many of the countrys strictest abortion laws have taken hold, backed largely by Republican lawmakers.

This month, access to abortion care in Florida shrinks from 15 weeks to six weeks.

Pretty much in the South, abortion care is null and void, Cine Julien, a reproductive justice organizer for Florida Access Network, told Capital B.

The move further limits access to abortion care in the region, at least until voters decide the bans fate at the ballot box. And across the country, in Arizona, the fate of abortion access is still in the throes of legal, political, and legislative battles. The decision is on hold until a lower court hears additional arguments about the laws constitutionality.

Black women are more likely than white women to get abortions, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows, and they are also at least three times more likely nationwide to die due to pregnancy-related causes.

In Florida, the disparity between Black and white pregnancy-related deaths doubled between 2010 to 2020. Any decision about reproductive health care leaves Black women particularly vulnerable.

This ban, shrouded in white supremacy, is another attempt to take away our autonomy, said Alexia Rice-Henry, co-executive director of ARC-Southeast, an abortion fund covering many of the Southern states, in a statement about the Florida news. It will add another hurdle, but wont stop folks from having that ultimate say.

As the amendment looms, advocates are in the midst of significant pushes to educate Florida residents and get them out to vote.

Were in crunch mode, said Melanie Andrade Williams, the legislative manager for Planned Parenthood of south, east and north Florida. For many residents, she said, the devastating impact of whats coming hasnt sunk in yet.

A mother of three, shes worried about the implications this will have on maternal health care in the state. She fears for the regions across the state that already have limited access to reproductive care providers. Many, especially in rural areas, are living in maternity-care deserts with no care.

Were already lacking in access before a ban is in place, Williams said. Many people hear Florida, they think Orlando and Miami.

In the time between the decision and when the ban takes effect, as well as the lead up to November, many organizers have been dispersing information about what a ban will look like in practice and mobilizing voters around Amendment 4, which will be on the ballot in the upcoming election. Amendment 4 will leave it up to voters to decide whether access to abortion should be enshrined in the states constitution. It will need at least 60% of voters to support it to be approved.

Im honestly exhausted, Julien said. Its hectic. Were always on our toes.

Williams also worries about health care providers leaving states with shrinking access because they dont feel safe performing the full spectrum of care theyve been trained to provide, including abortions. She has already seen some OB-GYN doctors leave for states where abortion care is less restrictive.

That could increase the number of maternity-care deserts and reduce access to maternal health care.

Theres a lot on the line for us, Williams said.

This story has been updated.

The post What Floridas 6-Week Abortion Ban Signals to the Rest of Us appeared first on Capital B News.
Abortion is a winning issue for Democrats. But will it be decisive?: From the Politics Desk

Welcome to the online version of From the Politics Desk, an evening newsletter that brings you the NBC News Politics teams latest reporting and analysis from the campaign trail, the White House and Capitol Hill.

In todays edition, "Meet the Press" moderator Kristen Welker examines whether abortion can be a decisive issue for Democrats, not just a winning one. Plus, the five things you need to know ahead of Donald Trump's first criminal trial.

Sign up to receive this newsletter in your inbox every weekday here.

Abortion is a winning issue for Democrats. But will it be decisive?

By Kristen Welker

What stands out, politically, about the abortion debate after the Dobbs decision is how its become a 60%-40% issue in todays 50%-50% political world.

More than 60% of voters disapproved of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, per a June 2023 national NBC News poll.

A majority of voters have voted to protect abortion rights in ballot initiatives in states from Kansas and Kentucky to Michigan and Ohio.

Do you have a news tip? Let us know

And even in battleground Arizona  whose top court ruled that a near-total abortion ban is now enforceable  62% of voters in the 2022 midterms said they believed abortion should be legal always or most of the time, according to the NBC News exit poll.

So abortion appears to be a winning issue for President Joe Biden and Democrats in 2024.

But will it be decisive? That remains to be seen.

Just look at Arizona in the 2022 midterms. Despite that near supermajority support for abortion rights, Democrat Katie Hobbs barely beat Republican Kari Lake in the states gubernatorial contest, 50.3% to 49.6%.

Indeed, 30% of Lake voters said they believed abortion should be legal, and 20% said they disapproved of Roe being overturned.

A focus group that NBC News recently observed is also instructive. In that focus group of Pennsylvania women who voted for Trump and said they back abortion rights, all but two of the 15 participants said they would still vote for Trump.

I think people should have their own right to choose what they want to do with their own bodies. But, I mean, its not a No. 1 factor on who Im going to vote for either way, said Stacey M., a 50-year-old woman from Philadelphia.

There is no doubt that abortion is a motivating issue for Democrats. And supporting abortion rights is popular with the general electorate.

But is it a winning issue in a straight Democrat-versus-Republican, Biden-versus-Trump contest?

We wont know the answer to that until November.

5 things to know about Trumps first criminal trial

By Dareh Gregorian and Adam Reiss

Former President Donald Trump leaves the courtroom during a break in the pre-trial hearing on March 25, 2024 in New York. (Mary Altaffer / Pool via Getty Images file)

Donald Trump will become the first former president to stand trial in a criminal case next week, an unprecedented event that will cast a giant shadow over the 2024 campaign.

Jury selection begins Monday in New York City, and the trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.

Whether youve been following every twist and turn of the case or are just tuning in, theres a lot to keep in mind. Heres what you need to know and whats expected to happen.

What is Trump charged with? Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg charged Trump with 34 counts of first-degree falsifying business records, a low-level felony. Trump faces a maximum of four years behind bars if hes convicted.

How long is jury selection expected to last? One to two weeks. Starting Monday, prosecutors and Trumps lawyers will seek to whittle a pool of potentially hundreds of people to 12 jurors and six alternates, who will all be anonymous. Each juror will answer 42 questions designed to discern whether they can be impartial about the former president.

To reach a verdict, all 12 jurors must agree on whether Trump is guilty or not guilty of a specific charge.

What is the prosecution alleging? At the heart of the case are allegations of various sex scandals that prosecutors say Trump tried to suppress with the help of his lawyer Michael Cohen and top executives in charge of the National Enquirer. In the final days of the election, Cohen paid $130,000 to one of the women, adult film star Stormy Daniels, to keep silent about her claim shed had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006. Trump has denied the allegation.

After he was elected, Trump reimbursed Cohen through a series of checks from his trust that were processed through the Trump Organization and labeled as payments for legal services rendered  a claim the DA says was false.

What is Trumps defense? While Trump has acknowledged reimbursing Cohen, he has said he didnt know details about what Cohen was doing. His lawyers are likely to target Cohen on the witness stand by painting him as a liar who loathes the former president and whose testimony shouldnt be believed.

Will Trump have to be in court every day? Since the case is criminal, Trump is required to be in court every day to participate in his defense. The trial will run every weekday except Wednesday from approximately 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Trump has suggested he might do campaign events afterwards at night.

Read more 

Thats all from The Politics Desk for now. If you have feedback  likes or dislikes  email us at politicsnewsletter@nbcuni.com

And if youre a fan, please share with everyone and anyone. They can sign up here.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Austin Community College Highland campus. On Wednesday, an individual in a ski mask was arrested for criminal trespassing, ACC said.

Austin Community College police arrested an individual after they crashed a meeting at the school's Highland Campus on Wednesday night wearing a ski mask and making 'threatening' remarks to students and employees, Chancellor Russell Lowery-Hart told the campus in an email Thursday.

"At about 9 p.m. last night, students and employees reported someone wearing a ski mask walked into a room where they were meeting and made remarks that felt threatening," Lowery-Hart said. "While investigators now believe it was a prank  we want to assure you that we are taking this extremely seriously."

ACC, which did not identify the individual who was arrested for criminal trespassing, said they were not a student.

The individual is a "known person" who had previously been issued a trespassing warning on campus, an ACC spokesperson told the American-Statesman on Thursday.

On Wednesday night, ACC police responded to the incident and questioned the individual, who Lowery-Hart said was found to have violated a trespass order.

"When I heard about what happened, my heart felt heavy," Lowery-Hart said. "No one should face a situation like this  especially when they're on our campuses."

Each ACC campus has a police station and surveillance cameras. An emergency alert was not issued to students because the situation was resolved quickly and there was no ongoing threat, Lowery-Hart said in the email.

Students and faculty will have access to mental health counseling and support, Lowery-Hart said, adding that safety at ACC campuses is a priority.

Police are investigating the incident to determine if more charges might be filed, ACC said in a media advisory.

"Threats of any nature will not be tolerated," Lowery-Hart said.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: ACC police arrest person for criminal trespass, investigating 'prank'
The immigration agent appeared at the house in a popular tourist haven in the eastern Dominican Republic at the crack of dawn. After inviting himself in, he asked the 14-year-old Haitian girl if her parents were home.

She replied that they were out working. The officer told her she was pretty and asked for a kiss, the girl said in a video account provided to the Miami Herald. The teen, whose face is blurred in the footage, said she rebuffed his request and he left. Soon after, she said, the agent returned to the house, removed her clothes and forced himself on her.

Asked in the video if the immigration agent had raped her, the girl, in soft-spoken Spanish said, yes.

The rape accusation by a Haitian minor has ignited a furor in the Dominican Republic, where for the second time in less than a year a Haitian migrant is accusing a Dominican immigration agent of sexual assault. In September, authorities arrested an immigration agent accused of raping a Haitian woman in front of her 4-year-old son after she was detained at the international airport in Santo Domingo. The woman was on her way to Nicaragua and was placed in a detention cell, where the alleged assault occurred.

Dominican authorities, responding swiftly to the latest incident, are investigating the rape accusation. The alleged assault is said to have taken place April 5 in Bavaro, a beach resort near the famous Punta Cana tourist area. The Dominican Republic and Haiti share the island of Hispaniola.

The General Directorate of Immigration said it is questioning agents who participated in immigration raids on the day in question. Julio Caraballo, the agencys communications director, told the Herald Friday that the agency does not have records of an operation taking place at the time frame the 14-year-old girl she was assaulted. Under Dominican law, immigration raids take place between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. unless a judge orders an exception, he said.

If an investigation determines that it was an immigration inspector, he will be suspended and turned over to the justice system, Caraballo said.

Homero Figueroa, spokesman for Dominican President Luis Abinader, said Friday the government energetically rejects any act that violates human rights and threatens the integrity of people in our territory, regardless of their nationality or condition.

This act will not go unpunished... Respect for the rights of all national or foreign inhabitants of the Dominican Republic must be an absolute priority, a government statement said.

The immigration agencys director, Venancio Alcantara, met with a prosecutor investigating the case and said if an immigration officer committed the assault, there will be no mercy.

The Dominican Republic has come under increased scrutiny for its treatment of Haitian migrants, and the Abinader administration has been accused of systematically violating their human rights.

Both Haitian and Dominican activists denounced the latest incident and said authorities need to go further. Edwin Paraison, a former consul of Haiti in the Dominican Republic and executive director of Zile Foundation, which fosters friendship between the two nations, said the group wants to see human-rights training for immigration officers, police and anyone who comes in contact with migrants.

We recognize that in this latest case involving a minor, the Dominican Republic reacted quickly, he said. At the same time, its important for [immigration agents] to have human rights training to prevent these kinds of grave incidents.

Justice for my daughter

The incident was reported by the young girls mother, who filed a complaint. A police report obtained by the Herald says the teen is a student and has a 7th grade education. The mother said the incident took place around 5 a.m. at their home.

Someone dressed as a guard wearing a hood entered our residence and once there grabbed my daughter by the neck and asked her for a kiss, the mother said. She replied she was a minorhe tore her dress and removed her shorts and sexually violated her without her consent and without protection.

The mother provided police explicit details of the incident.

The mother has been accompanied throughout the process by Santiago Molina, a Dominican human-rights activist. He said that after the rape, the officer took off after hearing the voices of neighbors. Molina, who has launched a campaign to get justice for the family, said Haitians in the Dominican Republic who face abuses are afraid of immigration, afraid of the police, afraid of the government. They live constantly in fear .

This lady said, I want justice for my daughter, he said about the mother. And I said, Im going to accompany you to the public ministry and were going to take this to its ultimate consequences.

Molina said the incident occurred while immigration officials were conducting a search in a neighborhood where many Haitians live. The perpetrator, he said, threatened the girl to keep her quiet and later took her into custody in a detention center for Haitian migrants in Benerito, a town far away near La Romana, another tourist hotspot.

Molina said the incident is not an isolated case in the eastern Dominican Republic, where he lives and advocates for human rights and better treatment of Haitians. He said he has spoken with at least one other Haitian woman who said she was sexually assaulted by immigration officials about eight months ago. Molina said victims dont speak up because they are often undocumented and afraid the goverment will deport them back to Haiti.

The case comes at a time where anti-Haitian sentiment in the Dominican Republic is being pushed by right-wing factions that largely support Abinader, who will be up for re-election later this year.





Abinader has positioned himself as a friend of Haiti on the international stage, pushing for more attention to the countrys security crisis while pleading for the deployment of an international security force to help the Haitian police battle gangs. But he has also been accused of antagonizing Haitians with his hardline immigration stance.

Last year, the Dominican Republic deported more than 250,000 Haitians, including those in need of asylum, Amnesty International has said.
Handcuffed defendants wait to have their bail set by municipal Judge Ronald Meyerson at the magistration courtroom at the Blackwell-Thurman Criminal Justice Center in 2013. The ACLU is suing Travis County for failing to provide lawyers at bail hearings,

The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas and a New York-based law firm have sued Travis County for failing to provide lawyers at bail hearings, arguing that the county has violated arrestees constitutional rights to legal counsel.

The class action lawsuit, filed in federal court Wednesday with the law firm Weil, Gotshal & Manges, came after sustained pressure from advocacy organizations and the county's announcement of a limited pilot program to provide counsel to people who are arrested at their first appearance in court.

In Travis County, an arrestee is not provided a lawyer during magistration, the hearing in which a municipal judge sets bail and release conditions. Counsel at first appearance has long been an issue for local officials and Austin defense attorneys, though plans to institute it languished after a short-lived 2022 pilot program was canceled due to a staffing shortage at the sheriff's office.

Advocates for the program were galvanized last month by Texas Senate Bill 4, which would allow state and local police to arrest migrants and empower judges who conduct magistration to give deportation orders. The advocates said the absence of counsel at these hearings would particularly jeopardize people who are undocumented. The law is currently on hold as a legal battle over whether it can take effect is ongoing.

"The lack of counsel at magistration fatally undermines the fairness of criminal proceedings in Travis County," the lawsuit argues.

The lawsuit's named plaintiff is Skylor Johnson, 38, who was in the Travis County Jail as of Thursday night, according to county records. Johnson, whom the lawsuit describes as experiencing homelessness, was arrested April 9 and is being held on a theft charge and two Class C misdemeanors  one for failing to appear in court. According to his arrest affidavit, Johnson told a police officer that he had taken copper wire from the property of a closed business and hoped to sell it for at least $100.

Johnson appeared at his bail hearing without a lawyer and was waiting to be appointed one when the lawsuit was filed, according to the complaint. Johnson's lawyers, by filing a class action suit, are seeking to represent all people detained at the Travis County Jail awaiting magistration who cannot afford a lawyer.

County Judge Andy Brown previously told the American-Statesman that the county planned to provide counsel at first appearance during two test shifts in late April and would pursue widespread implementation afterward.

Savannah Kumar, an attorney at the ACLU of Texas, said that proposal did not go far enough.

"What has been offered is simply not a solution that will help everyone who needs it in Travis County," Kumar said.

In a statement, Travis County spokesperson Hector Nieto said the county is committed to providing counsel at first appearance.

"Given recently identified challenges to implementation, our teams quickly pivoted. On April 23rd and 25th, Travis County will pilot the first CAFA (counsel at first appearance) test shifts, with four test shifts to follow in May. We want to build on that success as soon as possible," Nieto said. "We will continue to work with our partners at the City of Austin, the Travis County Sheriffs Office, and our prosecutors and defenders for the successful implementation of CAFA as soon as feasible.

The ACLU lawsuit argues that having a lawyer at a bail hearing "significantly" increases the chance of release and decreases the amount of pretrial time spent in jail, which it says causes "irreparable harm." Research has shown that pretrial detention increases the likelihood of a conviction, most often through a guilty plea.

During a court-watching program established by the ACLU of Texas, University of Texas law students observed magistration hearings from January 2024 to March 2024. Twenty-nine percent of people with no legal representation whom students observed made statements during magistration that could have harmed their case, according to the ACLU.

The lawsuit asked the court to rule that Travis County is constitutionally obligated to provide counsel at first appearance.

In 2018, the ACLU of Texas filed a class action lawsuit against Galveston County, and in 2019, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction, ordering that the county provide lawyers at bail hearings.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Travis County sued by ACLU over lack of counsel at first appearance
Opinion articles written in the style of their author. These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. All opinion articles written by individuals from outside the staff of EL PAIS shall feature, along with the authors name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed

It may be a noble cause, but its champion couldnt be worse. The Nicaraguan dictatorship, recently censured by the United Nations for severe human rights abuses akin to crimes against humanity, has criticized Germany for arming Israel, and especially for elevating Israels security and right to exist to a matter of state, as defined by former German Chancellor Angela Merkel in her historic 2008 address to the Knesset (Israeli Parliament).

Nicaragua and Germany signed the 1948 Genocide Convention, which commits both nations to preventing and punishing genocide, as well as arbitration by the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ). Much like an earlier ICJ case brought by South Africa against Israel, Nicaragua is accusing Germany of facilitating breaches of the Genocide Convention by providing arms and other support to Israel. Nicaragua wants Berlin to stop weapon supplies and prevent weapons already given from being used in Gaza, and resume financing UNRWA, the U.N. relief agency in Gaza that has been accused of infiltration by Hamas.

Nicaragua filed the case against Germany because it was unable to do so against the United States, a long-time adversary of the Sandinista regime. Forty years ago, Nicaragua filed an ICJ case against the U.S. over its support of guerrillas fighting the Sandinista regime. Washington is a key weapons supplier to Israel and a signatory of the Convention. However, the U.S. took 40 years to ratify it, and only after significant amendments that gave the U.S. power of approval over any charges against the nation. Samantha Power, the current chief of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and former ambassador to the U.N., once likened this scenario to granting an accused murderer the authority to approve any charges brought against him.

This is the third case brought to the ICJ during the Gaza war. The first one, initiated by South Africa, resulted in two warnings for Israel to ensure humanitarian aid and civilian security. The second case, focusing on the consequences of the occupation, highlighted international support for the Palestinian State. The ICJ is not expected to quickly rule on the genocide case, but it adds to increasing U.N. and global pressure on Netanyahu for a lasting ceasefire.

Germany today is at its finest, driven by its sense of responsibility stemming from a tragic history. It stands as a staunch advocate for multilateralism and the international rule of law. Germanys defense against Nicaraguas charges is solid and its legitimacy as a democratic state is unassailable. Unlike the United States, it fully acknowledges the ICJs jurisdiction and the binding nature of its rulings. And all it needs to reverse the increasing polarization between the global south and the liberal West is full recognition of the Palestinian States right to exist.

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New action follows second arrest in federal probe of Coast officials CBD, kratom stores

Federal prosecutors in Mississippi have dismissed a criminal charge against an employee of a CBD and kratom store owned by Biloxi councilman Robert L. Deming in connection with the longtime attorney and Coast officials pending drug case, according to records filed in the case.

Celeste CJ Little was arrested in April on a federal criminal complaint charging the employee with attempt and conspiracy to alter, destroy, and cover up a tangible object with the intent to impede, obstruct, or influence an investigation. Little had been free on a $25,000 unsecured bond since the arrest.

According to the charging document, Little was accused of committing the crime while working as an employee at one of Demings nine CBD and kratom stores called the Candy Shop, LLC, as Drug Enforcement Administration agents simultaneously raided the stores on Jan. 23, 2023. During the raid, agents seized $1.8 million in cash from Demings home and vehicles and other cash at his stores.

After the raids began, both Deming, Little and others started making calls to one another and other associates and business partners.

Robert L. Deming III, city council representative for Ward 4, appears at a Biloxi City Council meeting in Biloxi on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023. Demings home and several of his the Candy and Kratom Shop businesses were raided by the DEA on Jan. 26, 2023.

Little was accused of trying to obstruct or impede the investigation by calling a manager at one of the Candy Shop stores in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and telling a manager to throw out their synthetic cannabinoids additive, identified as the Schedule 1 controlled substance.

In the recorded call, Little said, Go take the additive and throw them away, the records say.

The addictive is identified in the records as as MDMB-4en-PINACA, or a synthetic cannabinoid classified by the DEA as a Schedule 1 controlled substance only in recent years.

On Thursday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner informed Judge Robert Myers of the decision to dismiss the federal charge against Little on behalf of U.S. Attorney Todd Gee. The charge was dismissed without prejudice, meaning prosecutors still reserve the right to file new charges against Little at another date if warranted.

There is no indication prosecutors plan to charge Little again.

Meanwhile, Deming remains under house arrest pending trial on federal charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and destruction, alteration or falsification of records in a federal investigation.

DEA agents started investigating Demings criminal wrongdoing at the stores as early as 2020 when agents started making undercover purchases at the stores.

During the undercover operation, federal agents said store employees made comments like, You cannot smoke this by itself, because it will put you in the hospital, it is way, way, way too strong. and more.

Drug Enforcement Administration agents and other law enforcement officers search two cars as a part of raids conducted on the home of Biloxi Councilman Robert Deming III on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023. Agents would not say specifically what they were looking for or what they found, but agents also conducted raids on several locations of The Candy Shop & Kratom, a kratom store chain owned by Deming.

Deming owns nine of The Candy Shop, LLC, stores in both Mississippi and North Carolina.

Federal investigations became suspicious of Demings activity after he started making big cash purchases, the records say, that included him paying $500,000 in cash for his Biloxi house and other cash to purchase of several high-end cars.

In addition, federal authorities found that Demings financial records indicated that he was making a lot more money than other CBD and kratom stores in Mississippi and North Carolina.

About two weeks after the raid, DEA Agent Alexander Smith said, Deming closed his business and personal accounts at Cadence Bank, formally known as Bancorp South, withdrawing over $280,000.

Five days later, the agent said, Deming opened new accounts at Wells Fargo and deposited around the same amount of cash into those accounts and an existing account at WoodForest National Bank.

DEA Agent Smith did a financial analysis of transactions in Demings accounts over three years and said he believes the funds withdrawn from Demings ... multiple accounts are co-mingled with proceeds derived from the sale of illicit substances.

In other words, Smith said, the financial review showed Deming consistently and repeatedly co-mingled funds between accounts for The Candy Shop and his personal law and law firm accounts.

The Sun Herald has spoken to Deming, who has declined to comment pending consultation with his attorney, W. Fred Dub Hornsby. Deming has continued to serve as Ward 4 councilman in Biloxi. He is currently in his third term in office.

Demings trial on federal charges has been delayed a couple of times and is now set to go forward on the criminal court calendar beginning on June 6 barring any decision to enter a plea in the case.

Days after his drug arrest, a Biloxi councilman started moving money around, feds say

Biloxi councilman indicted on drug conspiracy, records destruction charges after raids

Feds want to seize Biloxi councilmans home and millions found in DEA raids of his CBD stores

Biloxi councilman embroiled in federal drug trafficking scandal wont resign after arrest

What is synthetic cannabis? How is it different from CBD? What to know after DEA raid.
TechCrunch

For the first time, SpaceX not only launched its mammoth Starship, but also returned the booster to the launch site and to caught it with a pair of oversized "chopsticks." This test flight  the fifth in the Starship development program  took place Sunday morning at the companys Starbase site in southeast Texas. The nearly 400-foot-tall Starship is at the centerpiece of SpaceXs stated ambition to make life multi-planetary, but more immediately NASAs ambitious Artemis campaign to return humans to the surface of the moon.
Ukrainian air defense units destroyed 16 of the 17 Shahed-type drones that Russia launched overnight, the Air Force reported on April 12.

The Russian drones were launched from Cape Chauda in occupied Crimea.

Russia also attacked Ukraine with a single Kh-59 guided missile that was launched from occupied Donetsk Oblast. No information was provided by the Air Force as to the outcome of the missile launch.

The drones were intercepted over Mykolaiv, Odesa, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Vinnytsia, and Khmelnytskyi oblasts.

According to Suspilne, drone fragments reportedly fell on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, causing a fire at an energy facility. No casualties or injuries were reported as a result of the drone attacks.

Mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Air Force were involved in repelling the air attacks.

Drone attacks are a daily occurrence in Ukraine, affecting various regions across the country.

Overnight on April 11, Ukrainian air defense destroyed 57 of the 82 missiles and drones launched by Russia. The attacks targeted critical infrastructure, completely destroying the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant in Kyiv Oblast.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russia launches large-scale attack, destroys critical energy infrastructure

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Airbnb rentals could be harder to come by in Hawaii. Here's why and when that might happen

Hawaii lawmakers are hoping that phasing out short-term rentals could help ease its worsening housing crisis, where locals face the highest housing costs in the nation and one of the worst rates of homelessness.

Two bills that would allow for new regulation of "transient accommodations" have moved readily through the state legislature this spring, and if passed, could provide new avenues to limit the short-term home rental industry, which has exploded in recent years across the state's four populated islands.

But the issue has been a challenging one for officials in cities and states across the U.S.  including Los Angeles, New York, Nashville and Bozeman, Mont.  who have looked for ways to rein in the ballooning popularity of Airbnb and other online home rental platforms without eliminating the economic benefits that such properties draw.

In Hawaii, last summer's Maui wildfires have uniquely forced attention on the housing crisis  which was reaching a critical juncture even before the fires displaced thousands. Proponents of the short-term rental phase-outs hope this new sense of urgency could help push these bills into law in the coming weeks.

Here's a look at how the bills could affect locals and visitors, and how soon.

What would these bills do?

The two companion bills, HB1838 and SB2919, would give counties new authority to change residential zoning, including the power to phase out short-term renting.

It's important to note, though, that even if these bill pass, nothing would happen overnight. County officials  some of whom have said they want to change how short-term rentals are used and others who have previously tried to change such regulations  would have to adopt new rules to limit rentals. If they enact a phase-out, officials say, it would probably go into effect over several years.

"The bill does not enact anything specific to the regulation of those properties," said state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, one of the co-authors on the Senate bill. "It simply ... makes it clear that the counties do have the authority to regulate vacation rentals if they choose."

The bills essentially provide the needed legal framework for counties to limit short-term rentals in a variety of ways. Honolulu officials attempted to redefine the length of a short-term rental in 2022, but a federal judge recently ruled that current state law barred them from doing so.

Read more: After Lahaina fire, 16 relatives crowd into one Maui house

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the chair of the House Committee on Housing, said even if these bills pass, they probably won't eliminate short term rentals on the islands. Instead, Evslin said, the legislation would give local governments opportunities to define the neighborhoods where tourists could rent short-term units and, ideally, free up more homes for locals seeking long-term rentals. He said it won't solve the state's growing housing crisis, but he thinks it's a first step to "stem the bleeding."

"I think it's one of the steps that we need to take to try and solve our housing crisis," Evslin said, an author of the House bill. "On Kauai, for example, more units are becoming vacation rentals every year than we are building annually, so we have literally declining housing stock on Kauai, and the same thing is happening on Maui  even pre-fire."

But a long battle looms

The bills' supporters include many local housing nonprofits, hotel companies and local leaders, including Maui Councilmember Keani Rawlins-Fernandez.

People are moving by the droves because there is no housing," Rawlins-Ferandez said. She said it's taken too long for officials to regulate the short-term rental industry, which has created this challenging fight with increasingly powerful interests.

There's also a broad swath of opponents, including local homeowners who also rent units or rooms, Realtor groups, rental alliances and rental platforms. All of these groups have a financial interest in preserving property owners' ability to do short-term rentals.

Noe Lopes sits with her granddaughter Leilani and great granddaughter Kawehi as the sun sets on their third day of waiting to return home near Lahaina, two days after a devastating wildfire tore through the community. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

Airbnb's Alex April, head of the company's public policy for Hawaii, didn't expressly oppose the legislation in her statement to legislators, but mentioned concerns including the financial losses that the state could see. April also cited ongoing work between Airbnb and Hawaii counties to help limit illegal renting, which has included memorandums of understanding to remove properties not operating within the law.

"We remain committed to working with you on fair and reasonable solutions that protect the rights of hosts and preserve the significant benefits that short-term rentals provide to Hawaii communities," April's statement said.

Airbnb also hired Hawaii's former attorney general, David Louie, to argue against the bills, claiming in a lengthy testimony that the measures, if passed, could result in lawsuits challenging its constitutionality.

"Both Hawaii and federal litigation [have] recognized the principle that all preexisting uses of land are protected," Louie wrote. A judge would not accept such changes to short-term rental zoning, he argued, because of how units have operated for years, leading to "substantial and unnecessary litigation."

Evslin insisted that the bills are constitutional, but noted it will depend how counties chose to implement possible phase-outs if any further legal fight follows.





Why is this important now?

Months after the Maui wildfires, hundreds of displaced families are still living in hotels. Officials hope they will be relocated to long-term housing by this summer  a deadline that has continued to be extended.

Keohokalole, the state senator, said he wants to see the end of a system that has been "pushing local people out of their residential communities in favor of economic activity."

"We're seeing the wholesale conversion of residential communities in Hawaii, to speculative, short term rental development," he said.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, after his annual state of the state address in January, said he was going to put a lot of pressure to curb short-term rentals because "that market should be for our local families," according to the Associated Press. A majority of short-term rental owners don't live in Hawaii, according to the governor.

Green, in a statement to The Times, said he supports the two bills going through the legislature that would allow for phasing-out such rentals.

They would provide the counties with more tools to address vacation rentals in areas where they dont want these operations to continue," a spokesperson for Green said in a statement. "Gov. Green is open to additional changes to ensure that we can control the proliferation of illegal vacation rentals, to mitigate the years-long housing crisis that is causing local residents, our workforce of teachers, firefighters and other essential workers, to leave the islands."

Read more: Crackdown on Airbnb and other short-term rentals likely coming to unincorporated L.A. County

When could phase-outs begin?

Both bills have been voted out of their respective chambers and are moving into conference committee, where another round of changes can be made before a final vote  which must occur before May 3, the end of the state's legislative session.

"Similar bills have been introduced every year for the last decade or so and never gone all that far," Evslin said. "I don't want to jinx it here, but I'm optimistic for their success. ... I think that this is different in that there is really broad support across the legislature for action."

If the measures pass, it would be up to county leaders to look into phasing out short-term rentals and in what capacity  but legally any phase-out would have to be occur over a reasonable amount of time, likely years, Evslin said.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Rep. Susan Dubose, R-Hoover, greets a person on the floor of the Alabama House of Representatives prior to the start of the House session on April 13, 2023. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

A bill that would define sex-based terms based on the persons reproductive system passed the Alabama House Thursday on a 77-24 vote.

HB 111, sponsored by Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, would provide that a male is a person with a reproductive system that at some point produces sperm while a female is a person with a reproductive system that at some point produces ova.

[The bill] codifies the time-honored definitions of male, female, man, women, boy, girl, mother, father and sex, DuBose said. This is a definitions bill for our courts to have guidance when interpreting laws that already exist in Alabama.

It would define a man as an adult human of the male sex and a woman as an adult human of the female sex.

The proposal also allows state and local agencies to create separate spaces assigned to each gender and mandates them to collect information that identifies people based on their gender at birth.

SB 92, a similar bill sponsored by Sen. April Weaver, R-Brierfield, was approved in a Senate committee in February.

A public hearing on the legislation in February drew more than 100 people. DuBose introduced a bill defining gender in the 2023 legislative session, but the bill did not reach the House floor. DuBose also sponsored a law last year banning transgender youth from playing college sports.

A substitute on the floor provided that sex is not gender identity and that it would not prohibit unknown gender on a birth certificate.

Rep. Neil Rafferty, D-Birmingham, proposed an amendment providing the terms apply to state law and that it will follow the Supremacy Clause and the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution. The amendment passed on a 95-0 vote.

Rafferty said the amendment is meant to make sure we have guardrails that protect the well-established rights and protections against gender discrimination and sex-based discrimination.

Rep. Marilyn Lands, D-Huntsville, said that she still has concerns about the bill and said the bill does nothing to protect womens rights.

I believe its attempting to silence transgender and non-binary Alabamians. Ive heard from many constituents who oppose this bill and wont be silenced, she said.

Lands added that as a licensed counselor, she knows the toll the legislation will have on the LGBTQ+ community and cited a study in the Journal of Adolescent Health that found transgender and non-binary youth who experienced bathroom discrimination were more likely to be at risk of attempting suicide.

We must be mindful that when we protect the rights of marginalized people, we protect the rights of all. This bill is an unacceptable continuation of these dangerous policies, and I hope my colleagues will join me in choosing love over fear and standing up for the safety of transgender and non-binary Alabamians by voting no on this bill, Lands said.

House Majority Leader Scott Stadhagen, R-Hartselle, attempted to amend the legislation to require that any overnight program for minors that share multiple occupancy bathrooms, changing facilities or sleeping quarters ban people from the opposite gender from sharing spaces.

After Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, questioned the reason for the amendment, Stadhagen said that he wasnt going to name certain entities but it was to prevent camps throughout the state from being gender inclusive.

She also said that it potentially conflicts with the amendment passed by Rafferty, which the chamber passed overwhelmingly.

Stadhagen withdrew his amendment after Givans questions, and said its been brought to my attention that this amendment might cause problems with universities in the state.

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NORMAL, Ala. (WHNT)  The Alabama A&M University (AAMU) Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced Friday they will be implementing new measures to enhance safety and security on campus.

As a part of these measures, the school will welcome a new security K-9. The K-9 is trained to detect firearms and explosives. It will report for duty beginning this fall semester.

Huntsville approves grant for affordable housing project, funding for homeless groups

A new DPS Sub-Station has opened in the Knight Complex and is the first such satellite station on AAMUs campus. In addition, the school has partnered with a security contractor which will help expand patrol inside the Knight and Foster complexes.

These are important steps in continuing to increase our presence on campus, said Chief Montez Payton. Weve had very positive responses to these changes so far as the entire campus community understands the importance of improving infrastructure to be both proactive and responsive to campus safety and emergencies.

In 2023, a $600,000 investment in campus safety and accountability brought body cameras, updates to the surveillance grid and several other enhancements to The Hill. Additionally, more outdoor cameras are being installed.

The Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Braque Talley added, The safety and security of our campus is something we think about and work on constantly. Our team will continue to focus on finding ways to meet the needs of an ever-growing campus while keeping students, staff and visitors safe. It takes all of us to protect The Hill.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
A small child pulling children's books off a bookshelf. (Getty Images)

Alabama State Superintendent Eric Mackey said Thursday there may soon be money available to address reading skills for students beyond the third grade.

Mackey said at a work session of the Alabama State Board of Education that he had requested the money be placed in a supplemental bill for the current fiscal year so Alabama public schools could get it before Oct. 1, the start of the next fiscal year.

The wording in the supplemental states that $5,000,000 shall be used to develop programs for struggling readers beyond grade 3. Mackey told board members that the wording was sparse to offer the most opportunity for schools.

Because I told them, I said we dont want any language that says do this or do that or a formula, it needs to come to us and then we would divide up based on need, he said.

The Alabama State Board of Education requested $22 million for readers who need help beyond 3rd grade. The supplemental bill, which passed the House Ways and Means Education Committee on Tuesday, includes $5 million for struggling readers.

The $5 million would not be enough for all schools.

Lawmakers in recent years have focused on improving reading performance among the youngest students. The Alabama Literacy Act, passed in 2019, aims to have all students reading on grade level by the end of third grade. Students who are not on grade level by the end of 3rd grade could be retained for a year.

But Mackey has expressed concerns in the past for students who are promoted to the next grade level after only passing by a few points.

In the work session, Mackey said there were also conversations with lawmakers about a larger program for readers in those middle grade years, kind of a new Alabama Reading Initiative for middle school. He said Tonya Chestnut, a member of the board, worked with senators.

So, we put a package together on that and I will tell you its, I dont think thatll get all the way through this year, he said.

He did not give an exact number but said that the budget line item could be upwards of $50 million.

Mackey, a former science teacher, said that some of the issue with those grades is the jump in difficulty. He said he had students who could read novels struggle with their chemistry textbook because its a different kind of reading.

Senate Finance and Taxation Education Chair Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, said that he understood House Ways and Means Education Chair Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, to have come to the $5 million number. He said that struggling readers beyond grade 3 was something Sen. Vivian Figures, D-Mobile, was very interested in.

Well see if we can do better, but its certainly a starting point, he said.

Orr said that he was not aware of this other potential package unless it was tied to the struggling readers item, but that he would review it after the House passed the budget proposals.

Then well know what were dealing with, he said. Ive learned its best not to count chickens before we know how many we have in each coop to deal with.

Garrett said that he expects the $5 million to stay in the budget as it passes the House. He said that a potential package looking at something like the Alabama Reading Initiative for middle school was on the long term horizon but not in this years budget.

We want to continue to progress with our reading proficiency and math proficiency and address those areas, he said. Of course were talking about, potentially, changes in our foundation program, which would help us address some of those things a different way, but theres nothing imminent.

Messages were left with Figures Thursday afternoon.

The budget has passed the House committee and will be voted on by the full House of Representatives. It needs four more legislative days to pass. There are eight days left in the legislative session.

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The post Alabama schools superintendent expects more money for reading after third grade appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
Legislators listen as Rep. Ben Carpenter, R-Nikiski and the author of House Joint Resolution 7, speaks in favor of the resolution to guarantee a Permanent Fund dividend, on Thursday, April 11, 2024. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

Legislators listen as Rep. Ben Carpenter, R-Nikiski and the author of House Joint Resolution 7, speaks in favor of the resolution to guarantee a Permanent Fund dividend, on Thursday, April 11, 2024. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

The Alaska House of Representatives on Thursday rejected a long-awaited constitutional amendment that would have guaranteed payment of the annual Permanent Fund dividend.

The final vote was 22-18, five votes short of the supermajority required to advance the amendment to the Senate for further debate.

The amendment was part of a plan created in 2021 by a bipartisan, bicameral working group after the state came within a week of a government shutdown due to disputes over the size of the dividend.

Rep. Ben Carpenter, R-Nikiski, was a member of the working group and is the author of the amendment. He said Thursdays failed vote doesnt mean the end of the end of the plan envisioned by the working group.

Theres enough people who want to see something happen, he said.

Well just regroup, Carpenter said.

Rep. Frank Tomaszewski, R-Anchorage, watches in disappointment as the tally board in the Alaska House of Representatives shows the vote against House Joint Resolution 7 on Thursday, April 11, 2024. Tomaszewski supported the amendment. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

From 1982 through 2015, the size of the dividend was set by a formula in state law. In 2016, amid falling oil revenue, then-Gov. Bill Walker vetoed half the dividend to balance the state budget.

After a subsequent lawsuit, the Alaska Supreme Court ruled that the dividend is subject to the states annual budget process, even though the traditional formula remains in state law.

Absent another constitutional amendment, the Permanent Fund dividend program must compete for annual legislative funding just as other state programs, Supreme Court Justice Daniel Winfree wrote at the time.

Every year since that decision, the Alaska Legislature has set the dividend by fiat, and debates over the dividends proper size have repeatedly brought the state to the brink of a government shutdown.

House Joint Resolution 7, written by Carpenter, would require the state  starting in 2025  to pay a Permanent Fund dividend according to a formula set out in law.

The problem with that idea, said Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorage and one of its most vocal opponents, is that the current formula in state law would create a deficit of more than $1.5 billion.

This year, for example, the traditional formula calls for a roughly $3,500 dividend that would cost $2.27 billion. Thats more than 50% above the $2,270 dividend proposed by the House in its latest budget draft, which has been attacked as unaffordable.

We already know thats not going to happen, said Rep. Zack Fields, D-Anchorage, of the Houses proposed budgetary dividend.

Carpenter and other supporters of the amendment responded to Josephsons criticism by saying that nothing prevents the Legislature from simply changing the formula in state law.

After Josephson said there were zero signs that the Legislature would be willing to do that  or that Gov. Mike Dunleavy would allow it to happen  members of the House voted 37-3 to discharge a proposed formula change from the House Finance Committee without a hearing, bringing it one step closer to a vote.

Thats an unusual step, and it leaves Senate Bill 107, the formula change, awaiting scheduling for a vote of the full House.

As currently written, that bill proposes a so-called 50-50 dividend worth $1.83 billion this year.

Legislators listen as Rep. Ben Carpenter, R-Nikiski and the author of House Joint Resolution 7, speaks in favor of the resolution on Thursday, April 11, 2024. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

Rep. Sarah Vance, R-Homer and a supporter of the amendment, urged her fellow lawmakers to have faith that the Legislature will be able to change the dividend formula, and Rep. Craig Johnson, R-Anchorage, said that passage of the amendment would be a spur to action.

All this bill does is it forces us to make a decision, he said.

What this comes down to for me is trust, said Rep. Justin Ruffridge, R-Soldotna and a supporter of the amendment. I think there is a lack of trust  about whether or not we can actually pass all of the pieces that go along with this piece for a fiscal plan.

Many House Democrats said they dont believe Republican lawmakers are willing to vote for taxes that would be needed to hold spending on services flat while also paying for a dividend like the one envisioned by Senate Bill 107.

Democrats werent alone in raising those concerns. Rep. Will Stapp, R-Fairbanks, voted in favor of the amendment but warned about the costs.

The only way thats sustainable is if you tax people  and oil companies too  or massively cut government spending, he said.

In a pair of parliamentary maneuvers, Reps. Alyse Galvin, I-Anchorage, and Andrew Gray, D-Anchorage, attempted to advance an income tax bill and a sales tax bill, respectively, to the House Finance Committee. Both bills have received hearings in the House Ways and Means Committee, but they havent been released from that committee.

Galvins motion, dealing with House Bill 156, failed by a 20-20 vote, one short of what was needed. Grays motion, dealing with House Bill 142  written by Carpenter  failed 17-23.

Afterward, Rep. Donna Mears, D-Anchorage, said that the failed votes reinforced why theres a lack of trust about the dividend amendment.

This resolution no longer has my vote, she said.

Rep. David Eastman, R-Wasilla, watches as the tally board in the Alaska House of Representatives shows the vote against House Joint Resolution 7 on Thursday, April 11, 2024. Eastman supported the amendment. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

Correction: This article has been updated to reflect the fact that both tax bills have been the subject of hearings in the House Ways and Means Committee.

The post Alaska House votes down constitutional guarantee for Permanent Fund dividend appeared first on Alaska Beacon.
GHENT, WV (WVNS)  April is Alcohol Awareness Month and experts say it is a good time to get help if you need it.

Governor Justice declares April as Autism Awareness Month in the Mountain State

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates there are more than 170,000 deaths related to alcohol each year in the United States.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says in West Virginia excessive drinking accounts for 660 deaths each year.

Sheila Moran, Director for Marketing and Communications for First Choice Services, said there is always help out there.

I think its important to let people know that on our Help for WV helpline alcohol is the number two called about substance. Thats right after opioids, which is mainly heroin and fentanyl at this point, so something to take very seriously. And if you do find that youre crossing that line, maybe becoming addicted, we have help. We can usually get people in within twenty-four hours of their call, said Moran.

If you need help, youre urged to reach out. Here in West Virginia you can call 211 for information on resources available to you.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
In the years before his death in a Russian prison, opposition leader Alexei Navalny wrote a memoir that will be published this October his widow, Yulia Navalnay announced Thursday.

The book, entitled Patriot, will be published by Knopf and released in the United States on Oct. 22.

This book is a testament not only to Alekseis life, but to his unwavering commitment to the fight against dictatorship  a fight he gave everything for, including his life, Yulia Navalnaya said in her announcement. Through its pages, readers will come to know the man I loved deeply  a man of profound integrity and unyielding courage. Sharing his story will not only honor his memory but also inspire others to stand up for what is right and to never lose sight of the values that truly matter.

Navalny, the leader of Russias opposition party and a prominent critic of Vladimir Putin, died in February of unknown causes at age 47, while serving a 19-year sentence at an arctic penal colony. Convicted in 2021 on politically motivated charges, Navalny had already survived multiple assassination attempts by agents of the Russian government.

Most infamously he was poisoned in August 2020 with a nerve agent called Novichok while on a flight to Moscow. He was hospitalized in Berlin where his life was saved, but he chose to return to Russia in early 2021 where he was immediately arrested.

The post Alexei Navalny Memoir, Written Before His Death in Prison, to Be Released in October appeared first on TheWrap.








[ blood line ] 04.11.24 Creative Types

M om hated that I was an artist. But she sure was creative as fuck when it came to hiding her alcohol. The perfume bottles that lined her vanity were sprayed in her mouth, not on her neck. Whiskey was her Chanel No. 5. She wore hollow pearls around her neck, each filled with a dab of wine. The heels on her pumps pulled off, their tips flipping open to reveal slim chambers of golden scotch. If you held the beak of the bird fascinator on her church hat up to your lips, a rush of brandy would fill your tongue and keep you warm as the priest reminded you of all the reasons why you were going to hell. The only reason she still went to church was because the priest was a recovered alcoholic and he brought it up in his sermons often. You know, I respect that he doesnt give all the credit to God, she said over one Sunday dinner. He did that shit, not God. Though why you would turn your life around only to become a celibate in this highway town is beyond me. She said this as she slipped the thick scrunchie from her hair and unzipped a hidden pouch to reveal a slender tube of tequila. Growing up, the other church ladies told their kids to stay away from the lady with liquor on her breath and her poor daughter too because alcoholism is genetic, you know. They speculated about what she kept in the gold bumble bee-shaped charm she wore on a chain around her neck every day. There wasnt anything in it as far as I knew. Mom was always going on about genetics too. She was a Korean War baby with a G.I. dad and a Korean mom out there somewhere whose wartime romanceor lets face it, wartime fuckleft her an orphan adopted by world traveling do-gooders. Shed spent most of her formative years with the nanny in their beautiful D.C. suburban home for months at a time while they did mission trips to developing countries. She was obsessed with every little genetic trait I picked up from hermy fat monolids, my attached earlobes, my middle toe that was longer than my big toe. How I could roll my tongue for the double rs in Spanish class and my severe allergic reaction to grapefruit. She dressed us in matching pant suits for family photos until I was too old for that shit. You really are a little piece of me, Mom sobbed at my thirteenth birthday party much to the horror of me and most of my friends. My mom as a drunk headcase really buoyed the school gossip channels for a few weeks. The pity was worse than the mockery, I think. Dad finally left the year I turned 16. The final thing he packed was his three years sober medallion from AA. Before he left, I asked if I could keep it and he said no without hesitation, so I knew there was no point in asking if he would stay for me. The other day, I found an old briefcase of his in the back of a closet with a hidden compartment in the bottom where hed once stashed flasks of bourbon. They were all empty. I called him first when I got my acceptance letter to Cal Arts. I needed his support as a cushion for when I told Mom. Were so proud of you, he said. By we he meant he and his girlfriend, a rail thin white woman who flipped houses. Both divorced, my dad told me neither one of them was interested in remarriage. A piece of paper doesnt equal love, he told me at his sisters wedding last June, tipsy on too many glasses of prosecco. I told my mom hed said that when she pumped me for information about his new relationship after the wedding. Her face had filled with satisfaction. I told him that seventeen years ago, but he insisted. Now look at us. Writing something down doesnt mean shit when it comes to love. You can only feel it in here. She pressed her palm against my chest, her long red nails poking at my skin. I thought of that moment when I handed her my Cal Arts acceptance letter. Im not fucking paying for this, she said, holding it by one corner when she handed it back to me, as if it were vermin. Im not paying all that money for my only daughter to move as humanly far as possible from me for a useless degree. I guess she thought I would eventually give in, attend SUNY Purchase instead. But I was sick of just about every inch of her. I was sick of opening the cabinet for an after-school snack and finding rum in the Cup-a-Soups, of worrying every time I heard the car start in the driveway late at night. My grandparents were beyond thrilled to help me. I hadnt seen them in more than ten years by then even though they were only three and a half hours away by bus. My grandfather showed me the watercolors hed been working on since retiring, suggesting with a wink that artistic talent ran in the family even though we didnt share the same blood and his paintings were paint-by-number kits for adults where you could erase the numbers and outlines afterwards. My grandmother kept stroking my hair like I was a cat and murmuring about the lost years. I let her because the $50k tuition was impossible to me; it hardly seemed like a real number. Right before I left, on the porch of the beautiful three-story home my mother grew up in without them, my grandmother cupped my face in her hands. Your mother doesnt mean to hurt you, she told me solemnly, tears sparkling in her eyes like champagne. She never knew where she came from. She never knew who she was. That trauma takes a long time to heal and she never put in the effort to try. I nodded, focusing on the softness of her skin on mine. Mom found out about the visit of course. You went behind my back? After all I told you about them? How they abandoned me? Her voice was rich with hurt but her eyes glittered with something beyond that. You kept them from me all these years! That isnt fair. They didnt do anything to me. Oh, well who gives a shit about your old mother then, right? Just because you dont know where you come from doesnt mean I cant find out! Her cheeks reddened. You think by meeting those people, those strangers, you know where you come from? Her voice was low, dangerous. Those people mean nothing to you. Just a piece of paper that says youre related. Havent you learned how easily that can be destroyed? She pulled my Cal Arts acceptance letter down from the fridge where Id tacked it defiantly. When she tore it in half, it was like shed slapped me across the face. The rest of my senior year, Mom and I were like ships who hated each other passing in the night. I did all the research on dorm rooms, meal plans, and courses by myself. That fall, when I arrived at my dorm room, alone with just two suitcases, my roommate asked in a horrified whisper if my parents were dead. Theyre busy traveling the world, I told her. I would receive word of Moms death while I was doing my own traveling after college on a Fulbright scholarship to study art history in Madrid. By that point, our relationship existed mostly online in likes and comments and the occasional emailed recipe. It wasnt liver failure or a drunk driving accident or any of the other things Id spent my whole life waiting for. She slipped on ice walking down our porch steps and hit her head. Thats all. After the funeral, after my grandparents and my dad and all the other family who suddenly cared so much left, I sat alone at the kitchen table in our home. In my hands, I turned over the gold bumblebee necklace she had been wearing when she died. Its tiny diamond eyes glittered in the yellow overhead light. I noticed a faint line between the head and the body. With one soft yank, the head pulled clean off. I peered into the little bee body but I couldnt see what was inside. I tipped it over slightly. A drop of red splashed into my palm. I fought the urge to hurl the pendant in the trash but then I looked closer. I sniffed at my palm. It was blood. I didnt know whose. I thought of Moms eyes, bloodshot the morning after a binge. I thought of her red, red nails always pointed accusingly at one person or anothermost often me. I thought of her tongue, licking clean the salt from the edge of her glass. I raised the little blood-filled bee body into the air. A toast. Then I drank it all.
Distrust in the cleanliness of electoral processes, dissatisfaction with government management and a negative view of judicial systems: these are just some of the perceptions that citizens have about how democracy functions. The findings come from the Stockholm-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), which conducted a survey of voters in 19 countries on five continents between July of 2023 and January of this year.

In a statement, Kevin Casas-Zamora  the secretary general of International IDEA  emphasizes that the report is a wake-up call for democracies. He points out that governments must respond to the skepticism of their [electorates] and improve public administration by combating a growing culture of misinformation that has fostered false accusations against credible elections.

The survey was carried out in the three largest democracies in the world  Brazil, India and the United States  as well as in countries such as Denmark, Lithuania, Iraq, Colombia, Chile, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Taiwan. In total, the countries analyzed represent around a third of the worlds population. This was the first time that the organization focused on perceptions of democracy.

According to data from the study, in 11 of the 19 countries, less than half of those surveyed felt that the last elections were free and fair. That is, more than half express doubts about the cleanliness of the electoral process. This was the case in countries such as the United States, Romania, Taiwan, or Colombia. This particular survey cannot tell us with certainty what the reasons are but we know from our other [research projects] that there are many things that contribute to diminishing faith in elections, explains Seema Shah, the head of International IDEAs Democracy Assessment (DA) Unit, in a telephone conversation with EL PAIS from Stockholm. She mentions that doubts about the independence of electoral authorities, or irregularities in the voting stations are some of the concerns that voters expressed.

The political scientist emphasizes that certain problems  such as campaign financing, or fair coverage of the electoral landscape by the media  havent been sufficiently addressed for decades. This affects voters perceptions of the democratic process. She adds that there are high-level political leaders who spread disinformation about elections. An example is Donald Trumps campaign regarding the alleged theft of the elections that he lost against Joe Biden in 2020. Among many Americans (47%), theres general distrust in the elections because  even without evidence  theres a leader who pushes these types of false statements. Shah highlights that misinformation has always been present. The problem now is that its much easier to spread it to a large number of people and to do it quickly. And I think that definitely has an impact.

The report by International IDEA also points out the differences in the responses regarding how clean elections are, depending on whether the respondents party or candidate won. This divergence stands out in countries such as Brazil (a spread of 37 points) or the United States (47 points). In these cases, the stark level of partisan influence is related to the political discourse of Trump and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.

The countries where voters are most confident in their electoral systems are Denmark and Tanzania, with more than 70% of those surveyed offering positive responses. Pakistan is at the bottom, with less than 20%. When it comes to the opinion of minorities  also analyzed in the report  they tend to distrust elections more than majority groups. However, in countries such as Brazil, Gambia and Italy, minority groups actually tend to have greater faith in these processes.

In conclusion, Shah highlights that people want to participate more in political processes around the world. They want more mechanisms to be able to participate and give their opinions.

The survey also evaluates the perception of judicial systems. In 18 of the 19 countries, less than half of people surveyed (about 1,500 per country) believe that courts always or often provide access to justice. Only in Denmark does a positive perception predominate. Lithuania comes a distant second, with only 34% of respondents believing that courts always or often provide access to justice. However, countries as different as Italy, Lebanon, the United States and the Solomon Islands have similar levels of trust, while Colombians have a notably [negative outlook] in this regard, with only 7.5% having faith in the judicial system.

Differences surrounding freedom of expression

Freedom of expression obtained better marks on Perceptions of Democracy: A Survey about How People Assess Democracy around the World. A slight majority of respondents believe that they can speak freely in almost all the countries analyzed, albeit with a perception equal to or below 50% in the United States, Brazil, Romania, Colombia, Senegal and Pakistan. The perception among minorities differs significantly  sometimes for the better, sometimes for worse  from that of majority populations.

In this section, attention is drawn to the negative evaluation of these minority groups (14-point difference from the majority) in Denmark and Chile, as well as the somewhat less negative perception in Lithuania and Taiwan. IDEA highlights that it should be noted that the minorities who feel more limited [when it comes to expressing themselves] in relation to the majority population are found in some of the countries with the best [overall] results.

In relation to gender, differences in freedom of expression on sensitive topics are clearly observable between men and women and in almost all countries, women feel less able to speak freely in public than men. This disparity is especially marked in Iraq, Senegal and the Solomon Islands.

Another chapter of the report focuses on asking respondents whether or not theyre receptive to the idea of a strong leader who wants to act beyond legislatures and electoral results. IDEA points out that the responses make it clear that living in a strong democracy doesnt guarantee the rejection of non-democratic leaders. For instance, in Denmark, a quarter of respondents have some degree of favorable sentiment towards the notion of a strongman.

Only in six countries (Denmark, Colombia, Italy, South Korea, Taiwan and the United States) a majority declares unfavorable feelings about the idea. However, no country has a majority that is extremely unfavorable to undemocratic leaders. In the case of Gambia or Iraq, there are more respondents with a positive rather than negative view of a strong leader. The report clarifies that, in the case of Iraq, this isnt so much because of a nostalgic memory of the Saddam Hussein era (1979-2003)  rather, its because of the current instability within the country.

For some people, its attractive to have a leader who can just get things done quickly, without having to bother with institutions. And thats actually one of the ways that democracy is really threatened, because if you work with democratic institutions, it takes a lot longer to get consensus to get something going, whereas if you dont you have to deal with agreement and consensus, you can do whatever you want. The most important point is that we have to remember that democracy  or democratic institutions and leaders  arent an obvious good for everyone, Shah admits.

Given the results regarding institutions and fundamental rights in democracy, its perhaps not surprising that citizens are more dissatisfied than satisfied with their national governments in the majority of the countries analyzed. In 17 of the 19 countries, less than half of the population is happy with their government. Only in India  where Prime Minister Narendra Modi has high approval ratings  and Tanzania do a majority of those surveyed approve of the federal government, while in Romania and Lebanon, satisfaction is only around 9%. Similarly, in countries such as Colombia or Italy, satisfaction doesnt reach even 20%.

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Allegheny County Emergency Services (ACES) is urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel following what they called life-threatening flooding.

>> LIVE UPDATES: FLOOD WARNINGS continue Friday after record rainfall

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County officials said Swiftwater response teams were activated countywide and there have been around two dozen rescues in Oakdale and South Fayette during Thursdays storms. Nine were in Oakdale and 15 were in South Fayette, all from vehicles and structures.

Swiftwater units were deployed in the following locations:

City of Pittsburgh

Stowe Township

Groveton

Blawnox

Jefferson Hills

Etna

Elizabeth

Monroeville

Eureka

Glassport

Many roads that were shut down Thursday due to flooding are still closed.

According to the National Weather Service, Thursday evenings rain totals were at least a one in 10 to 20 year event, in some cases a one in 50 year event. Thursdays 2.77 inches of rain shattered the old daily record of 1.46 inches in 1933. Thursday was the 25th wettest day on record and month-to-date, Pittsburgh is now 6.11 inches above normal.

Pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts and have several ways to receive any additional watches and warnings. ACES reminds all drivers: turn around, dont drown. Do NOT attempt to drive through flood waters. Please limit travel through the weekend on area roads. Stay clear of streams, creeks and rivers as they are all flowing high and fast. ACES said.

County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is coordinating with local emergency management coordinators, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), and the Red Cross for a joint damage assessment early next week.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

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TRENDING NOW:

Etna issues evacuation notice due to severe flooding LIVE UPDATES: FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS continue overnight after record rainfall PHOTOS: Flash flooding conditions across western Pennsylvania as storms move through VIDEO: 6 students graduate from Pitts dentistry apprenticeship program DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
An alligator just broke into my house: 911 call released after gator found in Venice womans home

An alligator just broke into my house: 911 call released after gator found in Venice womans home

VENICE, Fla. (WFLA)  A 911 call was recently released after a Venice woman found a nearly 8-foot alligator in her home late last month.

Mary Hollenback called the Sarasota County Sheriffs Office after an alligator busted through her screen door and made itself at home on March 28.

An alligator just broke into my house through the screen door. I dont know who to call, Hollenback told dispatchers in a 911 call that lasted nearly seven minutes. It came through the screen door and basically stopped there.

Popular Sarasota cafe closing its doors after 10 years

Hollenback said she ran out to her lanai after finding the gator in her house. She said all she could think was, Oh, my goodness, I have an alligator in my house.

Luckily, the Sarasota County Sheriffs Office quickly responded to Hollenbacks call.

We have a burglar of an alligator and were going to help you with it, the dispatcher told Hollenback.

Two deputies and three Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers were called in to help remove the gator from the home.

Hollenback said she was relieved but kind of shaken for a while after the incident.

All my neighbors came out and were all talking about it, and its just become a really good story since then. I mean, this story just keeps growing and growing. My 15 minutes of fame, she joked.

Anyone who sees an alligator that appears to be a threat to people, pets, or property should call the FWCs Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
JACKSON COUNTY (KSNT)  Taylor Smith, of Alma, said he was lucky to be alive after being hit by a train in Jackson County and waking up in the hospital.

Smith said he was walking from Topeka to Wamego to surprise a friend and got lost. He was using GPS on his phone but his phone died he was trying to backtrack his steps when he attempted to cross the train tracks.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, he was trying to cross between the cars of a parked train and was hit by another train heading westbound. Smith said he was hit in the head by the door handle on a train car.

They didnt blow their horn nothing, they didnt see me, Smith said.

According to Smith, he didnt hear the train coming and after being hit he had to crawl to the other side of the train tracks. He said a farmer saw him and called 911. Within five minutes police were on scene.

A box car was left open and the handle was left out, Smith recalled. I lost a lot of blood, they got me in the ambulance and everything went black. I woke up in Stormont Vail Hospital.

KSNT Pothole map compared to early 2024

Smith was rushed to the hospital. He said he suffered from a gash wound from his eyebrow to the top of his head, a sprained shoulder and road rash. He was given 10 stitches to his head.

For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
MISSOURI  Youve likely seen the American Pickers on TV. Before too long, theyll visit Missouri in search of rare valuables, collections, and antiques.

The well-known antique hunters will make their way to Missouri this June. Theyre looking to pick from homes, garages, and large private storage places around the Show Me State.

American Pickers debuted in 2010 on The History Channel with Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz and Danielle Coby leading operations for Antique Archaeology in Iowa. The show is currently in its 25th season, traveling around the United States to find rare artifacts and highlight their historical or cultural impact.

The U.S. has more million-dollar cities than ever. Heres where they are

More than a decade later, Mike and his brother Robbie continue to search for hidden treasures. They will be visiting Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas at various points in June, looking for junkie, historical and one-of-a-kind hidden treasures, in their words.

Keep in mind, the pickers only buy from peoples private collections, not items already in retail stores, flea markets or public settings.

If you have a collection or know someone with a collection that might qualify for the pickers, contact their main phone line at 646-493-2184 or email AmericanPickers@cineflix.com. Prospective sellers will need to include their full name, city and state, contact information, and a brief description of their collection of items.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
It looks like Israel and Iran are going to war, and the United States might join in. Two weeks ago, Israeli forces bombed the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, and killed seven Iranian military officers, including a general. Iran has vowed to respond, The Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. government expects a direct Iranian attack on Israel over the weekend.

On Friday, the State Department issued travel restrictions for staff at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, along with a warning about what to do in the event of rocket or artillery attacks. Iran has a variety of weapons that can reach Israel, from sophisticated ballistic missiles to cheap kamikaze drones.

By all accounts, the United States did not know about the Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate beforehand. (U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin complained to the Israeli military about the lack of warning, The Washington Post reported.) Yet President Joe Biden has promised Israel "ironclad" support all the same.

"We're going to do all we can to protect Israel's security," Biden said on Wednesday. His press secretary added the next day that "we warned Iran not to use this attack as a pretext to escalate further in the region or to attack U.S. facilities or personnel."

Iran has issued its own warning: not to stand in the way. The Biden administration received an Iranian message claiming that U.S. forces will become a target if they stand in the way of Iran's retaliation, according to The Intercept. A small number of U.S. troops are stationed in Israel for air defense and intelligence sharing missions. General Michael E. Kurilla, head of U.S. forces in the Middle East, is currently in Israel with them.

Iranian diplomats have had a flurry of meetings this week with foreign representatives urging Iran not to retaliate. Israel has also said that it will retaliate directly to any Iranian attack. But Iranian leaders are angry enough that they have talked themselves into a corner.

"When they attack the consulate, it is as if they have attacked our soil," Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said in a speech for the holiday of Eid al-Fitr on Wednesday. "The evil regime made a mistake and must be punished and it shall be."

Israel has bombed Iranian troops in Iraq and Syria before, but Iran has written these attacks off as a loss. The difference seems to be that this month's attack targeted a consulate. Attacking diplomatic facilities is considered a major red line in international law. Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari claimed that the Iranian consulate in Damascus was really a military base "disguised as a civilian building."

Although the bombing of the consulate came as a surprise to everyone outside the Israeli leadership, the Israeli-Iranian conflict has been brewing for a long time. Over the past few years, Khamenei has called Israel a cancerous tumor that needs to be excised, and Israeli leaders have in turn said that Iran is an octopus they will behead.

Iran is a longtime supporter of Hamas, the group that rampaged through Israeli towns last October, sparking the current war in Gaza. The New York Times reported this week that Iran is now running guns to other Palestinian rebels in hopes of fomenting unrest across the Palestinian Territories.

And since the war in Gaza began, Israel has also been fighting a border war in Lebanon against the Iranian-backed militia Hezbollah. Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant wanted to launch a full-scale attack on Lebanon early in the war, only to be talked down by the Biden administration.

So far, the United States has supported Israel's war effort from a distance, providing weapons and intelligence. U.S. troops, with a few exceptions, have not directly been in the line of fire. The Biden administration has repeatedly insisted that it has "no plans or intentions to put U.S. boots on the ground in combat."

But Biden is now letting Israel and Iran make that decision for him. Even though he was blindsided by the consulate attack, he has implied that the United States will absorb some of those consequences. Iran, meanwhile, is being vague about exactly what those consequences will be.

The news site Amwaj.media speculated that Iran could attack the Golan Heights, a territory that Israel captured from Syria in a 1967 war. Although Israel and the United States consider it Israeli territory, other countries consider the Golan to be occupied Syrian land, which might tone down the international reaction to Iran's attack.

Pushing back on the speculation, an Iranian diplomatic source told Amwaj.media that he "doubts if anybody except for a few actually know" Iran's next move. "These are all guesses."

The post Will American Troops Be Sucked Into an Israeli-Iranian War? appeared first on Reason.com.
FILE - A voter enters Tuscaloosa County Ward 5, Montgomery Fire Department, to vote during a primary election, March 5, 2024, in Northport, Ala. Voters in a new Alabama congressional district at the center of an ongoing legal and political dispute will return to the polls Tuesday, April 16, 2024, to select the nominees in a U.S. House contest that could help decide control of the narrowly divided chamber this November. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Voters in a new Alabama congressional district at the center of an ongoing legal and political dispute will return to the polls Tuesday to select the nominees in a U.S. House contest that could help decide control of the narrowly divided chamber this November.

Shomari Figures, a former top aide to Attorney General Merrick Garland, and Anthony Daniels, the state House Minority Leader, will compete for the Democratic nomination in Alabamas 2nd Congressional District after neither candidate received the vote majority needed in the March 5 primary to avoid Tuesdays runoff. Former state Sen. Dick Brewbaker and attorney Caroleene Dobson will compete in the Republican runoff. The winners will face off in the November general election.

A federal court adopted new boundaries for the 2nd District last year following a lawsuit that alleged the states congressional districts were racially gerrymandered to limit the influence of the states Black voters. Alabama has a Black population of about 27%, but the lawsuit claimed the old map illegally concentrated them in one congressional district to limit their political power, a practice known as packing. The case went to the Supreme Court, which affirmed the lower courts ruling requiring the state legislature to create a second district with a sizable share of Black voters.

The court-ordered map will be in place for the 2024 election, although Republican state Attorney General Steve Marshall said his office will go back to court to restore the original boundaries for future elections. Under the old plan, Republicans enjoyed lopsided electoral advantages in six of the states seven U.S. House districts.

The new 2nd District stretches from the Georgia border in southeast Alabama to the Mississippi border in the southwest. It includes Montgomery and parts of Mobile. The district has a Black population of about 49%, up from about a third of the population under the old lines. Voters in the new 2nd District favored Democrats in the last two presidential elections, giving President Joe Biden about 56% of the vote in 2020 and Hillary Clinton about 54% of the vote in 2016.

Heres a look at what to expect on Tuesday:

PRIMARY RUNOFF DAY

Runoff primaries in Alabamas 2nd Congressional District will be held Tuesday. Polls close at 8 p.m. ET.

WHATS ON THE BALLOT

The Associated Press will provide coverage for both the Democratic and Republican runoff primaries. Daniels and Figures are the only candidates on the Democratic ballot; Brewbaker and Dobson are the only candidates on the Republican ballot.

WHO GETS TO VOTE

Voters who participated in either the Democratic or Republican primary for Alabamas 2nd Congressional District on March 5 may only vote in the same partys primary runoff on Tuesday. In other words, Democratic primary voters may not vote in the Republican runoff and vice versa. Voters registered in the 2nd District who did not participate in any partys primary may vote in either runoff.

DECISION NOTES

Figures was the top vote-getter in the Democratic primary on March 5 with 43% of the vote, almost double the vote share for Daniels. His first-place finish was powered in part by his strong performance in Mobile County, where he received 60% of the vote and Daniels placed fifth with only 2% of the vote. Figures also won in vote-rich Montgomery County with about 40% of the vote, compared to 27% for Daniels. Daniels, who lives almost 200 miles north of the district in Huntsville, will have to significantly improve upon his showing in these key counties if he hopes to overtake Figures in the runoff.

On the Republican side, Brewbaker placed first on March 5 with 37% of the vote, compared to 25% for Dobson. His showing in the primary was largely due to his overwhelming win in Montgomery, where he had 66% of the vote to Dobsons 22%. Neither candidate carried Mobile in the primary, although Dobson edged Brewbaker there for second place, 27.0% to 26.5%. To overtake Brewbaker, Dobson likely will have to win over the bulk of the 35% of Mobile voters who cast their primary ballots for state Sen. Greg Albritton. Shell also need to significantly reduce Brewbakers lead in Montgomery.

The AP does not make projections and will declare a winner only when its determined there is no scenario that would allow the trailing candidates to close the gap. If a race has not been called, the AP will continue to cover any newsworthy developments, such as candidate concessions or declarations of victory. In doing so, the AP will make clear that it has not yet declared a winner and explain why.

Elections in Alabama are subject to an automatic recount if the margin of victory is 0.5% of the total vote or less. The AP may declare a winner in a race that is eligible for a recount if it can determine the lead is too large for a recount or legal challenge to change the outcome.

WHAT DO TURNOUT AND ADVANCE VOTE LOOK LIKE?

Turnout on Super Tuesday in the 2nd District was 11% of registered voters in the Democratic primary and 12% in the Republican primary.

In the 2022 primaries, pre-Election Day voting made up about 4% of the total vote in the Democratic statewide primaries and about 2% in the Republican contests.

HOW LONG DOES VOTE COUNTING USUALLY TAKE?

In the Democratic primary on March 5, the AP first reported results at 8:05 p.m. ET, five minutes after polls closed. The election night tabulation ended at 11:24 p.m. ET with about 99% of total votes counted. In the Republican primary, the first votes were reported at 8:11 p.m. ET and the final election night update at 11:25 p.m. ET with about 93% of total votes counted.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  The Albuquerque Police Department is searching for the suspect behind downtown attacks on two elderly people. Investigators believe a man in a pickup truck with the Arizona license plate EPA88K is tied to the attacks near 14th and Central. The suspect is described as a white man with a medium build, blonde or strawberry-colored hair, and light eyes.

Man accused of Albuquerque trailhead murder appears in court

APD called the attacks unprovoked and brutal. Anyone with information is asked to contact CrimeStoppers at 505-242-COPS.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
The OneOhio Recovery Foundation will award grants from three major drug distributors that settled with the state in 2021.

Applications are now open for $51 million in addiction prevention and recovery grants in Ohio.

The OneOhio Recovery Foundation will award the grants. The foundation is a nonprofit organization formed to distribute opioid settlement money from three major drug distributors that settled with the state in 2021. The deal involved $808 million for Ohio counties and cities, 55% of which will be distributed by the OneOhio Recovery Foundation.

Our goal is to make this process fully accessible and transparent in order to encourage the widest possible participation from every corner of Ohio, while also ensuring the necessary steps are taken across our OneOhio Regions to avoid conflicts of interest in the review process," Don Mason, the chair of the foundation's board, said in a release on Thursday.

Applications opened on April 2 and are due on May 3. Parties can apply through the organization's online grant portal. The foundation will have a webinar on Friday to explain the application process and answer questions.

The OneOhio Recovery Foundation board will have its annual meeting at 10:30 on May 8 in the Ohio Chamber of Commerce offices.

Erin Glynn is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: OneOhio Recovery Foundation will award $51 million in grants
The distress message written by shipwrecked mariners with palm leaves on the beach of an atoll in Micronesia.

Four letters written with palm leaves on the sand were crucial to the rescue of three sailors who were shipwrecked on a small, uninhabited atoll in the Pacific. HELP was the message that the rescue teams flying over the area read from the plane. After being stranded for over a week, all three are safe, according to the United States Coast Guard.

The three mariners, all men in their 40s, embarked on their voyage from Polowat Atoll in Micronesia on Easter Sunday in a small 20-foot open skiff equipped with an outboard motor and experience in navigating these waters, the Coast Guard release said.

On April 6, a Coast Guard unit in Guam received a distress call from a relative of the three mariners reporting her three uncles had not returned from Pikelot Atoll, approximately 100 nautical miles northwest of Polowat Atoll.

Watchstanders of this unit, the Joint Rescue Sub-Center (JRSC), immediately began coordinating a search and rescue operation. There were initial difficulties in mobilizing air assets due to lack of availability, operational commitments and weather conditions. Ultimately, the efforts led to the mobilization of a U.S. Navy P-8 crew from Kadena Air Force Base in Japan and the diversion of the Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Henry. The initial search area spanned over 78,000 square nautical miles.

The mariners getting rescued from Pikelot Atoll, in Micronesia. US COAST GUARD FORCES MICRONESIA (EFE)

The breakthrough came when the U.S. Navys P-8 Poseidon aircraft identified the three sailors on April 7 at Pikelot Atoll, confirming their presence and status. In a remarkable testament to their will to be found, the mariners spelled out HELP on the beach using palm leaves, a crucial factor in their discovery. This act of ingenuity was pivotal in guiding rescue efforts directly to their location, said Lt. Chelsea Garcia, the search and rescue mission coordinator on the day they were located.

The aircraft crew successfully deployed survival packages to sustain the mariners until further assistance could arrive. USCGC Oliver Henry was rerouted to Pikelot Atoll to conduct the rescue operation. The crew of the coast guard vessel met the sailors on the atoll on the morning of April 9, rescued the men and returned them to Polowat Atoll along with their skiff, which had sustained damage making its outboard engine non-functional.

This is the second rescue mission to take place in similar circumstances in a few years in Pikelot. In August 2020, an SOS message written on the sand of that same Pacific atoll was key in the rescue of three sailors who had been shipwrecked on the journey between Pulawat and Pulap atolls. They spent three nights and two days outdoors, but the pattern in the sand was enough for the Coast Guard to locate them and rescue them safe and sound.

In April 2016, three men were rescued from the small, uninhabited island of Fanadik, also in Micronesia, after their boat sank almost four kilometers from the coast. These castaways wrote a gigantic HELP with palm leaves and were rescued by the United States Navy three days later.

In August of that same year, a couple was rescued from the desert island of East Fayu, also in Micronesia, after a U.S. Navy aircraft that flew over the atoll read the SOS signal they had written in the sand.

With a primary presence in Guam and Saipan and over 300 members across Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam team focuses on maritime safety, security, and stewardship in Oceania. They have search and rescue responsibility for maritime events over more than 1.9 million square miles, including the Federated States of Micronesia.
Arapahoe County deputies search for driver who slammed into gas pumps

CENTENNIAL, Colo. (KDVR)  Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office deputies are searching for a driver who crashed into gas pumps at a station in Centennial.

The sheriffs office said deputies first spotted the late-model purple Dodge Challenger going about 90 miles per hour on Broadway at 4 a.m. on Thursday.

Deputies tried to pull the driver over, but he took off, accelerating to speeds over 100 miles per hour, according to the sheriffs office.

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When the driver tried to make a turn onto East Panama Drive, he lost control. The Challenger went over the curb and slammed into the gas pumps at a Conoco station at 6450 S. Broadway.

Somehow, the driver was able to back up and take off.

Deputies said the driver is believed to be a male wearing a hoodie pulled up over his head.

The collision caused about $30,000 worth of damage to the pumps and gas station.

If you have any information, please call the Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office tip line at 720-874-8477

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
The flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran flies in front of the state's embassy in Berlin. Monika Skolimowska/dpa

A court in Argentina has ruled that the Iranian government was behind the deadly bombing of the Amia Jewish community centre in Buenos Aires in 1994, according to a report in La Nacion newspaper on Friday.

The criminal appeals court in Buenos Aires ruled that the attack was a crime against humanity, a decision welcomed by Amia.

"We have repeatedly stressed that there is ample evidence that Iran was actively involved in the decision to attack and in the organization and financing of the attack," the organization said.

Eighty-five people were killed and 300 were injured in the bombing of the Jewish community centre in the Argentinian capital on July 18, 1994.

The judges ruled that the Islamist militia Hezbollah carried out the attack on the orders of the Iranian government.

The attack was carried out during the term of office of former president Cristina Kirchner (2007-2015) and the Argentinian government agreed with Tehran at the time that the investigation would be handled by an international truth commission.

The special prosecutor for the investigation, Alberto Nisman, was shot dead in his flat in 2015 after accusing Kirchner of obstruction of justice and concealment.

On Friday, Amia called for those responsible for the attack to be brought to justice. "The impunity in this case is a stain on Argentinian history," the centre said in a statement. "We demand that the perpetrators and masterminds be brought to justice and serve their sentences for this heinous crime against humanity."
By Lucila Sigal and Lucinda Elliott

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) -A new ruling by Argentina's highest criminal court has blamed Iran for a fatal 1994 attack against the AMIA Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, declaring it a "crime against humanity" in a decision that paves the way for victims to seek justice, according to court documents released late on Thursday.

The judges ruled that the bombing of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) - the deadliest of its kind in the country's history, with 85 people killed and hundreds wounded - was carried out by Hezbollah militants responding to "a political and strategic design" by Iran.

Representatives from Argentina's Jewish community said the court ruling was an "historic" one that opened the door for victims' relatives to bring lawsuits against the Islamic Republic.

Speaking to journalists on Friday in Buenos Aires, AMIA President Amos Linetzky called the decision "great news," but said it was "deplorable" how long it was taking for justice to be served.

"In 30 years of a case investigating the worst attack we have suffered in our territory, there have been no major developments," Linetzky said.

President Javier Milei, who has consistently pledged strong support for Israel and the Jewish community, celebrated the ruling, calling it in a statement a "significant step" that put an end to decades of "delays and cover-ups."

Argentina's judiciary has long maintained Iran was behind the attack, but joint investigations and Interpol arrest warrants have led nowhere. Tehran has denied involvement and refused to turn over suspects.

In the ruling, the judge argued for legal reforms so the accused suspects could be tried in absentia.

Prosecutors have charged top Iranian officials and members of Iran-backed Lebanese armed group Hezbollah with ordering the bombing, as well as an attack in 1992 against the Israeli embassy in Argentina, which killed 22 people.

Argentine rabbi and academic Dr Fishel Szlajen, a former cultural director at AMIA, said there was little reason to celebrate.

"A ruling is better than continued judicial silence... (but) after three decades when the intellectual and material authors have lived in freedom, aging peacefully, it is not cause for celebration," he said.

In 2013, Argentina and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding to create a truth commission to investigate the attack, but the agreement never came into force.

(Reporting by Lucila Sigal and Lucinda Elliott; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Rosalba O'Brien)
Arizona's 1864 abortion ban was mostly a result of power struggles, historians say

Attempts to gain power mostly fueled Arizonas near-total abortion ban in 1864, as male physicians sought to dominate health care over midwives and anti-abortion advocates felt threatened by immigrants, historians said.

The Civil War-era law  which the state Supreme Court this week ruled was enforceable  was enacted at a time when women did not have the right to vote and before Arizona, then a territory, became a state.

Back then, midwives predominantly performed abortions, using herbs or metal instruments, which caused resentment among male physicians, said Karissa Haugeberg, who teaches history at Tulane University in Louisiana.

Physicians marked midwives as competitors, Haugeberg said. So they began campaigning to be the authorities on reproductive rights and health care.

In 1847, a small group of physicians formed the American Medical Association, largely to quash competition from midwives and other nonlicensed providers while boosting their standing as a trustworthy and well-regulated guild, said Christopher Griffin, the director of empirical and policy research at the University of Arizona.

Haugeberg said, A lot of this was this, like, behind-the-scenes battle of physicians trying to corner the market on obstetrical care and put the decision-making power of abortion in their hands.

At the same time, rising birthrates among an influx of Catholic immigrants, coupled with dramatically falling birthrates among American-born women, sparked replacement theory concerns.

There was a huge fear, a very xenophobic fear, Haugeberg said. Part of it was truly to control the fertility of American-born women.

Some abortion restrictions were already in place at the time Arizona's passed, said Jill Wieber Lens, a University of Arkansas law professor who studies reproductive rights.

Before the state's near-total ban, abortions were illegal there only after women started to feel fetal movement, which Lens said could begin between 16 and 21 weeks' gestation.

But the AMA and other powerful anti-abortion advocates began a crusade against abortion in the late 1850s. And within a decade, a national movement to restrict it gained momentum.

You can start to see the beginnings of what we now call the right-to-life movement, Griffin said.

The Arizona law in 1864 made abortion before the detection of fetal movement a felony, punishable by two to five years in prison for anyone who performed an abortion or helped a woman obtain one, except to save the womans life.

A wave of similar bans swept the country. By the end of the 19th century, Haugeberg said, every state and territory had criminalized abortion.

Mary Ziegler, a legal historian at the University of California, Davis School of Law, said, These laws all passed at the behest of the AMA, which wanted more power and discretion.

And thats what these laws gave them," she said.

The AMA said its stance on abortion has evolved substantially since its early days in the 1800s. In the last 50 years, it said, it has been an advocate in defending the practice of medicine, and it said it believes the early termination of a pregnancy is a medical matter between a patient and a physician.

And while the ban gave physicians more power in the 1860s, todays national abortion restrictions leave doctors uncertain about when they can render care without being prosecuted, Ziegler said.

The Arizona Supreme Court said Tuesday it would put its decision on hold for 14 days so a lower court can consider additional constitutional challenges. Assuming the 1864 policy once again becomes state law, Arizona would be the latest state to effectively ban abortion care.

Its really stunning to uphold a law that at its very heart is so gendered, Haugeberg said. It seems to ignore all of the movement weve made for equality.

In the 1860s, birth control and pregnancy tests did not exist, and what would today be considered an early-term abortion was a somewhat common practice. Doctors had a limited understanding of reproductive health, and technology lagged, historical experts said.

It was not for another 60 years that researchers would begin testing for pregnancy by injecting womens urine into young rats to identify hormone reactions.

That was the best science we had, Lens said. People today cant even imagine it.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Adrienne Mansanares expects a flurry of calls from patients in Arizona starting this week.

Shes the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, which has clinics that provide abortions in Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada. Mansanares said the clinics should be able to accommodate people who are seeking the procedure in the wake of an Arizona Supreme Court decision.

That is still a very long way for patients to go for health care, she added, noting that the clinics already have seen nearly 700 patients from Arizona since Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022.

Doctors and clinic leaders said therell be a scramble across the Southwest and West for abortion care due to Tuesdays decision, which said officials may enforce an 1864 law criminalizing all abortions except when a womans life is at stake.

Viral vintage King Soopers bag sells, but heres who gets the money

People are going to have to start looking out of state, said Dr. Maria Phillis, an Ohio OB-GYN who also has a law degree. This is now another place where they cant go safety to access care.

On top of potentially long distances to states like New Mexico, California and Colorado, patients who used to go to Arizona from other states for abortion care will have to go elsewhere, Phillis said.

Plus, Arizona is home to more than 20 federally recognized tribes, and barriers are expected to be higher for Native Americans because of existing hurdles, such as a decades-old ban on most abortions at clinics and hospitals run by the federal Indian Health Service and fewer nearby health centers offering abortions.

Interstate travel for abortions nearly doubled between 2020 and 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights. Out-of-state patients accounted for 16% of abortions obtained nationally, compared to 9% in 2020, the group said.

Guttmacher data scientist Isaac Maddow-Zimet said that when bans go into effect, more people travel to less restrictive or non-restrictive states, but not everybody is able to travel.

Traveling could mean pushing abortions later into pregnancy as people try to get appointments and potentially face mandatory waiting periods. According to results of a periodic survey spearheaded by Middlebury College economics professor Caitlin Myers, waits in several states stretched for two or three weeks at various points since federal abortion protections were overturned; some clinics had no available appointments.

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The Brigid Alliance works nationally to help people who need abortions receive financial and logistical support like airfare, child care, lodging and other associated costs. Last year, it helped 26 people travel out of Arizona to get abortions.

Interim executive director Serra Sippel expects the number of calls from Arizona residents to grow.

People that the alliance has helped go out of state  mostly from Georgia, Texas and Florida  have seen backlogs stretching to four to five weeks because of higher demand, Sippel said. Some get bounced between clinics because their pregnancy has passed the point that they can get care there.

With a pregnancy, every moment counts, said Sippel, who added that delays can have serious repercussions. Phillis noted procedures done later in a pregnancy could take longer and be slightly more complicated.

The Abortion Fund of Arizona, which helps people travel for abortions both in and out of state, said out-of-state clinics have required patients to stay to take the second pill used in medication abortions because of concerns about liability. That means multi-day trips, said Eloisa Lopez, executive director of Pro-Choice Arizona and the abortion fund.

Were looking at anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per person for travel expenses, with their abortion procedure expense, Lopez said.

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Lopez also said she has spoken with the governors office about state funding for abortion-related travel expenses.

Meanwhile, in Tucson, a CEO of a pregnancy center that opposes abortion said things are likely to stay the same under the new law. Hands of Hope Tucson has been around for 43 years, is about 200 steps from a Planned Parenthood clinic and is pretty busy, CEO Joanie Hammond said.

Were just coming alongside women and men who are facing an unexpected pregnancy  Weve always been about the women and about the babies, she told the AP. At the pregnancy center, I see the women and I see what happens to them after they go through that abortion experience. We just want to be there to help them in the next step for healing and whatever they need.

For Arizona residents who are closer to California, which expanded its abortion protections after Roe v. Wade was overturned, officials are pointing people toward the Abortion Safe Haven Project. Created by the state and Los Angeles County, the project has guidance and resources for out-of-state patients.

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Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest put out a statement this week from president and CEO Darrah DiGiorgio Johnson, saying it supports out-of-state patients with navigation services to help them tackle logistical barriers to care.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Arizona abortion law may have finally forced some humility from Trump and MAGA

Donald Trumps Republican Party likes to throw punches and never apologize.

Even after three continuous cycles of defeat tied directly to Trumps brand of all-fight-and-no-finesse, the MAGA vanguard never seems to learn their lesson.

Especially here in Arizona.

That may be changing after the Arizona Supreme Court decision on abortion awakened the party to its own defects and brought a welcome dose of humility to a movement long lacking in self-awareness.

Republicans must now face their folly

We are finally witnessing the MAGA leadership come face to face with their own folly  and that may turn out ultimately to be good for the state and nation.

MAGA politics have been cataclysmic to the Arizona Republican Party.

In a state in which the party still holds a roughly 107,000-and-shrinking registration advantage over Democrats, it has lost two U.S. Senate seats, the governors office, the secretary of state and the attorney general.

In the Arizona House and Senate, the margins are so close that one good blunder could send both chambers hurtling into the arms of Democrats.

That blunder may have just happened.

Trump's court threw abortion to states

Its been two years since the tide rolled out on Donald Trump and Republican officeholders across America.

In the summer of 2022, a Trump-crafted conservative court vacated the 1973 landmark abortion ruling Roe v. Wade, and many Republicans celebrated what they believed to be a game-changing victory on abortion.

But Dobbs v. Jackson had merely moved the abortion debate to the states. It had not changed attitudes in this country, in which the vast majority of Americans want abortion to remain safe and legal.

When a majority of the Arizona Supreme Court ruled this past week that Roes demise had left standing an ironfisted abortion law from the Civil War era, the mist finally lifted for Republicans, and they saw themselves naked in Dobbs low tide.

Even Kari Lake is now trying to backpedal

Kari Lake looks at the audience while a video of former President Donald Trump plays on a screen during an announcement rally at Jetset Magazine in Scottsdale on Oct. 10, 2023.

There was Donald Trump scrambling for a fig leaf. And one of his most faithful acolytes, Kari Lake, was desperately trying to hide her immodesty.

Before the week would end, Lake would be lobbying the MAGA extremists in the Arizona Legislature  her fellow travelers  to erase 1864 and bring the state quickly, mercifully back to the 21st century before the party implodes.

For his part, Trump disavowed the Arizona decision and actually beseeched Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs to save the day. It sounds impossible, doesnt it? But its true.

Its all about states rights, Trump said in Atlanta, and it needs to be straightened out. And Im sure that the governor and everybody else will bring it back into reason and that will be taken care of.

Democrats have been playacting all week

For their part, the Democrats had to playact all week.

They put on their most dour faces and intoned their grave warnings that the Arizona Supremes had just imperiled womens lives, when, in fact, everyone knows the only lives imperiled are political and Republican.

Hobbs and her meddlesome rival and sometimes sidekick, Attorney General Kris Mayes, planted their flags of No Retreat on abortion rights. Both reaffirmed that Arizona will never prosecute women and doctors under this draconian Civil War era ban.

They had already made plain they would not enforce any abortion law, including the far more moderate 15-month ban that former Gov. Doug Ducey had put in place.

Hobbs and Mayes would damn the law to press their own political convictions. There is danger in that, as famously expressed by Sir Thomas Moore in A Man for All Seasons:

And when the last law was down, and the Devil turned around on you  where would you hide ... the laws all being flat? This countrys planted thick with laws from coast to coast  mans laws, not Gods  and if you cut them down ... dyou really think you could stand upright in the winds that would blow then?

Jeff Flake knew Arizona was in trouble

In 2015, the Maricopa County Republican Party ignored their political elders in this state and invited the most eccentric GOP candidate for president to come to Phoenix to address a large crowd at the Phoenix Convention Center.

The candidate was Donald Trump, and the party elders  U.S. Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake and Gov. Doug Ducey  stayed far away.

Behind the GOP scheme: To rescue anti-abortion justices

At the time Flake warned that weve seen leaders like Trump in Arizona and they have wreaked destruction. He didnt have to say it, but Flake had evoked the memory of impeached Arizona Gov. Evan Mecham.

Now the party was on the verge of turning back the clock, he said.

When Trump used the Arizona venue to trash his Republican challengers, Flake told The New York Times, In Arizona, we have had such a long stretch of this kind of rhetoric and this kind of talk. We seem to be moving beyond that here, and this kind of rhetoric just pulls us back.

The clock had turned back, alright.

A glimpse of hope that MAGA can change

Even Flake could not have known how much. The national populist movement Trump called Make America Great Again was not only about to consume the national Republican Party and seize the White House, it would very soon steamroll Flake and his Senate career.

Flake understood that within the intolerant attitudes of this Trump movement was the same poison that had stricken the Arizona body politic in the late 1980s with Evan Mecham.

Political extremism.

Now comes the important question. As Trump and his movement confront their own extremism and finally understand its self-destructive nature, are they capable of change?

I have my doubts, but as a conservative I am encouraged to see in MAGA Republicans the emotions that must necessarily precede any real change.

Humiliation and contrition.

Those are about the only two rocks to hold fast to in a week in which the Republican Party has crashed its hull into an immoveable barrier.

Phil Boas is an editorial columnist with The Arizona Republic. Email him at phil.boas@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona abortion law could finally force the GOP to fix itself
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) said Friday that women will die if the controversial 1864 law on abortion in the state isnt repealed.

[They] need to repeal this law, Hobbs said in an interview on ABCs The View, in a clip highlighted by Mediaite. It is the right thing to do for Arizonans. I know that Arizona women will die under this ban, and they need to get their stuff together and just repeal it.

On Tuesday, the Arizona Supreme Court rejected arguments that it should uphold a 15-week ban on abortion in a 4-2 decision. The 15-week ban, originally passed in 2022, was enforced in the wake of the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Arizonas highest court instead ruled in favor of the enforcement of an 1864 law that makes abortion a felony thats punishable by two to five years in prison for those who perform it or those who help someone get one. The court also lifted a stay on the abortion law, which has an intensely slim exception for when it is necessary to save the life of a pregnant person, resulting in it going into effect in two weeks.

Democrats in the Grand Canyon State tried to repeal law Wednesday, but they were blocked in the states House and Senate. In the lower chamber, Democrats shouted at Republicans that they would have blood on your hands following their refusal to examine the bill.

[We] can talk about how crazy it is, that a law passed in 1864 by 27 men, now controls the lives of millions of Arizona women, but I wanna talk about the effect thats going to have on women in our state, Hobbs said on The View. I, myself, have personally experienced  a miscarriage, losing a pregnancy by miscarriage. And the treatment for that is a procedure that is also an abortion, and that is a common treatment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Florida's six-week abortion ban is set to take effect May 1, while Colorado organizers are working to enshrine the right to an abortion.

Arizona's Supreme Court this week reinstated a 160-year-old law that bans nearly all abortions, sending shockwaves throughout the nation as the state joins a list of dozens of others where the procedure is banned or restricted.

Democrats  and some Republicans  slammed the decision, which outlaws abortion from the moment of conception unless the pregnant persons life is at risk and doesnt include exceptions for rape or incest. The White House called the move devastating, and the decision prompted Vice President Kamala Harris to visit the Grand Canyon State on Friday. Even former President Donald Trump, who takes credit for the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, said it went too far.

Abortion providers in Arizona vowed to continue with services until theyre forced to stop, which could be within two weeks of Tuesdays ruling.

Heres what else you may have missed in abortion news this week.

Protesters shout as they join thousands marching around the Arizona Capitol in Phoenix after the U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion decision on June 24, 2022. (Ross D. Franklin/AP)

Colorado

Even in states like Colorado, where abortion laws are not as restrictive compared to those of other states (like Arizona), supporters of abortion access arent leaving anything to chance.

The Coloradans for Protecting Reproductive Freedom coalition is working to enshrine abortion rights in the states constitution by gathering signatures to get an amendment on the November ballot.

The organizers said Friday they had collected over 225,000 signatures, surpassing the required 124,238 signature threshold to get the proposal on the ballot. The group says its getting close to fulfilling the other requirement, which is to collect enough signatures  2% of total registered voters  in all 35 state Senate districts.

The news of Arizona's near-total abortion ban ultimately exposed just how vulnerable every state is, and will remain, without passing legislation that constitutionally secures the right to abortion, Jessica Grennan, Coloradans for Protecting Reproductive Freedom campaign manager, said in a statement.

Maine

Lawmakers in the Democratic-controlled Maine legislature greenlit a bill on Friday that would shield the states health professionals who provide abortion and gender-affirming care from being targeted by legal action from other states that have bans on those treatments. If the measure is signed by Gov. Janet Mills, Maine would join several other states that have passed these types of shield laws protecting abortion and gender-affirming care.

Meanwhile, voters in Maine likely wont have the opportunity in November to weigh in on a proposed amendment to the states constitution to protect the right to an abortion.

On Tuesday, the Maine House voted 76-68 in favor of the proposal, but it failed to pass because it fell short of the required two-thirds majority. The same thing happened last week in the Maine Senate, which voted 20-13 in favor of the amendment but fell short of the requirement.

The proposed amendment, known as LD 780, must be supported by each chamber in order for it to be placed on the ballot, which would allow Maine voters to weigh in on whether or not to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution.

The state House and Senate will get a final vote on the proposal, which is scheduled for next week, though it appears its likely to fail in the House without having received any Republican support from the initial vote.

Maine already has some of the least restrictive abortion laws in the U.S., allowing for the procedure up until viability. The proposed amendment to the state constitution was an effort to get ahead of any future debates on the issue in the legislature and to record lawmakers positions on abortion in an election year.

Florida

Florida is preparing for its six-week abortion ban to take effect on May 1. Until then, abortion remains legal in the state until 15 weeks.

Last week, the conservative-leaning Florida Supreme Court upheld the 15-week ban on the procedure, which was enacted in 2022. That decision triggered a six-week abortion ban, signed last year by Gov. Ron DeSantis, to go into effect 30 days from the decision, which is May 1. The six-week ban makes exceptions for rape and incest and for when the life of the mother is in danger.

In an Emerson College poll conducted this week, a majority of Floridians (57% of poll participants) think that a six-week abortion ban is too strict. Fifteen percent said the ban isnt strict enough, and 28% think the ban is on point.

Come November, Floridians will get the chance to invalidate the six-week ban at the ballot box when they decide on a measure that would guarantee the right to an abortion before viability by amending the states constitution.

But the caveat is that a 60% supermajority of voters need to vote in favor for this to happen. According to the poll, only 42% said they plan to vote in favor of a ballot amendment.

Kansas

This week Kansas lawmakers in the Republican-controlled legislature pushed through a bill that would make it a crime to coerce someone into having an abortion. People in the state who make physical or financial threats against other people to force them into getting an abortion could face penalties such as a year in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The measure goes to the desk of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, a strong abortion rights supporter, who is expected to veto any such anti-abortion measures. However, both the state House and Senate appear to be close to having the two-thirds majority needed to override her veto, according to the Associated Press.

Iowa

The Iowa Supreme Court heard arguments on Thursday over whether the states most recent abortion law, which bans most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, should go into effect.

Abortion is currently banned at 22 weeks of pregnancy in Iowa, and the state requires patients to make two in-person visits: one for in-person counseling and one 24 hours later for the procedure, which must be provided by a physician, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion rights.

The attorney for the state of Iowa asked the court to uphold the so-called heartbeat law, which limits abortions after the time around when a fetal heartbeat could be detected through an abdominal ultrasound, or around six weeks. But thats also at a point in pregnancy when women often dont even know theyre pregnant.

Meanwhile, Planned Parenthood is suing Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds over the heartbeat law. An attorney for Planned Parenthood argued for the court to uphold a lower district court ruling that said the fetal heartbeat bill was unconstitutional.
John Paulson is one of those personalities who are a regular feature of charity galas, newscasts, and the gossip pages of newspapers. With an estimated fortune of $3.5 billion according to Forbes, at 68 years of age the investor and philanthropist who once donated $400 million to Harvard University, and who amassed a vast fortune ahead of the financial crash of 2008 by shorting the U.S. housing market, is now in the headlines for two other issues, one related to his bank accounts and another to himself, his interests, and his personal life. Last weekend, he received his good friend Donald Trump at his home in Miami, where he raised over $50 million for the Republican candidates presidential campaign, a single-event record in U.S. political history. As host, he posed for the cameras with his new partner, a nutritionist and influencer named Alina de Almeida, 35, who was sporting a stunning diamond ring and whom he already refers to as his fiancee. However, Paulson is still married to his first wife and divorce proceedings are far from resolved.

Paulson, a finance graduate from New York Universitys College of Business and Public Administration and who holds an MBA in business from Harvard, has been in the public eye for much more than his fortune in the past three years. In 2000, aged 44, he married the woman he had met as his assistant, 28-year-old Romanian immigrant Jenny Zaharia. Together they had two daughters, Danielle (20) and Giselle (18). The relationship broke down in 2021, when the press learned that the tycoon had started a relationship with De Almeida, a nutritionist and entrepreneur who had moved into his apartment on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. And when the press found out, Jenny found out.

It was in the fall of 2021 that Paulson and De Almeida began to be seen together in public, at parties with the mayor of New York, at weddings, and galas at museums. His still-wife claimed to have learned of the divorce from the tabloids rather than from her lawyers, specifically from Page Six. John did not tell her. She had no idea he was planning to file for divorce. She only found out that he had filed when Page Six published their story  she never saw it coming, said sources close to Zaharia at the end of 2021, adding that Paulsens actions were humiliating and disrespectful. The couple had spent the summer of 2021 with their daughters in the Hamptons, and in August they had gone on a family trip to the Salzburg Festival in Austria. In September the divorce was announced and Paulsen and De Almeida attended a luxurious wedding on Lake Como in Italy. A year later, Paulson himself told the media: Unfortunately, our marriage didnt work out. Divorces are common, but difficult. Alina and I are very happy together. I hope Jenny can find happiness too.

Jenny and John Paulson at a charity dinner in September 2018 in New York. Jared Siskin (Getty Images)

Paulson and Zaharia had not signed a prenuptial agreement. He decided to withdraw the divorce suit and negotiate with Zaharia over money and property (they own homes in Miami, Manhattan, the Hamptons, and a 40-acre ranch in Aspen, Colorado). That negotiation has now been dragging on for almost three years, during which time Paulsen and De Almeida have become engaged.

The wedding, though, is on hold as Paulson is still married to Zaharia. She, moreover, is in no hurry to settle, as she seeks the best deal possible for her and her two daughters. In July 2022, Paulsons former assistant sued after rejecting a settlement tabled by the tycoon that did not offer a lump sum but a monthly allowance. She then accused her husband of having for years operated a scheme to hide part of his assets and of weaving a secretive web of trusts containing more than $1 billion during their marriage. Zaharia claimed that, specifically, the three funds had been created in 2001, 2006, and 2009 to hide money, which served to evade Mr. Paulsons lawful obligation in the event of divorce and left her in shock, according to court documents to which the New York Post had access.

John Paulson and his partner, Alina de Almeida, receiving Donald and Melania Trump at their home in Palm Beach, Florida. Alon Skuy (Getty Images)

Paulsons lawyers denied the claims and said Zaharia had known since 2006 that her husband had several trusts. She was accused of acting out of greed and the lawyers said if the trusts were split they would be subject to huge sums in taxes, also letting slip that, in that case, the couples two daughters would receive a diluted inheritance. In March 2022, Paulson sold a 2,600-square-meter apartment on Manhattans Upper East Side for just $5 million having initially asked for $24.5 million. Shortly thereafter, Zaharia accused him of having made a sham purchase of a penthouse in Puerto Rico to improperly enrich himself to the tune of $10 million at the expense of the trusts, her lawyers told the Daily Mail. In December 2022, the two appeared in court in Manhattan, where Paulson tried to dismiss the case, claiming she was attempting a shameless money grab, as Bloomberg reported.

The divorce remains unresolved, while the still-married couple lead entirely separate lives. Paulson tries to be discreet in his new relationship, according to sources in the U.S. media, so as not to further inflame the anger of Zaharia. He devotes his time to his business, his partner, and to his friend Trump, who he has been advising on economic issues for years  so much so that his name has even been mentioned as a possible candidate to head the Treasury if the Republican wins the presidency for a second time.

At the fundraiser, Paulson opened the doors of his mansion to a select group of guests (who paid between $250,000 and $814,000 per head for dinner and to have their picture taken with the White House hopeful). Trump knows the importance and the value, in every sense, of Paulsons friendship. So much so that while Paulson was accompanied by De Almeida, who was sporting an engagement ring, the former president was accompanied for the first time during the presidential election pre-campaign by his wife Melania, who when welcomed by Paulson and De Almeida exchanged her usual grim expression for smiles and hugs.

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A person walks past the Arizona Supreme Court building, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Phoenix. The Arizona Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the state can enforce its long-dormant law criminalizing all abortions except when a mother's life is at stake. via Associated Press

Republicans have long crowed that they are the party of freedom, individual liberty and small-government conservatism.

Arizonas abortion ruling shows that theyre anything but.

Arizona  one of the most important states on the political map  could soon have one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the country, based on a law that was passed before Arizona was a state, all because those same small-government conservatives decided to use government to tell women what theyre permitted to do with their bodies.

The Arizona Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday in favor of an 1864 law banning abortion in all cases, at any stage of pregnancy, except when its necessary to save the mothers life. No exceptions for cases of rape or incest.

It would supersede the 15-week abortion ban passed by the state legislature and signed into law in March 2022.

The law would go into effect 45 days after the state Supreme Court issues a formal ruling, but the states attorney general said she wont enforce it.

The ruling, a 4-2 decision, came just a day after Donald Trump stumbled through a feeble attempt to define his own abortion policy: He said he supported leaving the issue up to the states, while in the same announcement, took credit for the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, wiping out a 50-year-precedent for legal abortion nationwide.

We defer, as we are constitutionally obligated to do, to the legislatures judgment, which is accountable to, and thus reflects, the mutable will of our citizens, Arizona Justice John Lopez wrote. (All the justices were appointed by a Republican governor.)

But the court decided that the states 15-week ban was no longer valid because it was predicated entirely on the existence of a federal constitutional right to an abortion  under Roe  that would later be overturned.

In other words, Arizonas lawmakers used Roe as a template for the states 15-week ban. As the Arizona justices saw it, overturning Roe that June effectively overturned the state ban passed three months earlier.

Instead, the Arizona court decided to go with a law written 160 years ago. Well, of course! Everyone knows folks today think exactly the way people did in 1864!

Duh!

Since Roes repeal, 12 other states have tried to ban nearly all abortions. Other states are considering it.

A states rights advocate might argue that different communities will see an issue differently. The choices folks in San Francisco might make may differ quite a bit from folks in a rural county in Kansas, as one tweet argued. Neither group of people would be wrong.

That misses the point. The underlying message in that tweet is that neither groups choice is wrong. Yet, we would deny a persons ability to choose for themself  not because the choice itself is wrong, but because their choice of where to live was wrong.

We talk about being a divided nation, and that people have radically different views on volatile issues. That doesnt mean people of radically differing views dont live in the same communities. San Francisco, you might find hard to believe, has plenty of conservative-minded residents, and vice-verse in rural Kansas. Thus, millions of people living where abortion bans are in effect are being denied a choice that the tweet says is not inherently wrong. Meanwhile, theres no law in San Francisco requiring people to get abortions.

Do the justices on the Arizona Supreme Court fail to see this? I dont know. But their ruling not only denies individual freedom for people who live in predominantly blue counties like Maricopa, Pima and Coconino (home to Phoenix, Tucson and Flagstaff, respectively); theyre denying it to pro-choice residents living in predominantly red counties. That is an inequitable application of the law.

In fairness, justices arent supposed to be swayed by anything other than the law. Theoretically, they are legally landlocked. The Code of Conduct for United States Judges is clear: The duties of the judicial office take precedence over all other activities, including personal, political or religious views. They should perform those duties with respect for others, and should not engage in behavior that is harassing, abusive, prejudiced, or biased.

Does anybody see that in this Arizona ruling?

What I see in their decision is a tyranny of the minority.

Thats not meant to be hyperbolic or even to impugn motive. Someone went digging for a 19th-century law to justify their own selfish agenda irrespective of fellow citizens with differing views who (in this case) just want to be left alone.

These are nothing more than zombie laws. Dead and buried in the morals of a different time, theyre being resurrected and contorted with pretzel logic by litigants and ultimately justices, who interpret them as if they were written today rather than as written ages ago. So please dont tell me this is a matter of law, or, for that matter, originalism. Thats just a bunch of smoke-filled coffeehouse crap. This is about people imposing their will on others.

Imposing is too nice a word. Forcing, is better. Thats what totalitarian states do.

I get it: This is our system. The law grinds exceedingly slowly, but it grinds exceedingly fine. Correctives are available. State lawmakers could rewrite the law, post-Dobbs, or add a new amendment to the state constitution (which has been done 160 times since 1912, when Arizona became a state). Or Arizona voters could decide  and just might.

Abortion rights advocates say theyve gathered enough signatures to put a measure on the November ballot that would enshrine in the states constitution a right to an abortion until fetal viability, roughly 22-24 weeks.

But the process isnt the point. We can fault the Arizona justices, but the real blame lies with the litigants and their supporters. They piously insist that theirs is the only way and who went through all the labyrinthian legal steps to get a ruling that forces their way down everyones throat.

I wouldnt dream of telling those litigants, or any pro-life individual, that they go out and get an abortion. Could you imagine passing a law requiring it? But they have no problem denying a pro-choice persons choice through legal writ.

Look, if you want to operate a network of crisis centers to counsel people against having abortions, as one of the litigants does, knock yourself out. Advertise. Make your case there, in the free market. Anybody choosing to walk in will then know what theyre getting into. Maybe they want the counseling, maybe theyre just curious. Maybe theyll get an abortion, maybe they wont. Its their decision.

True, the results of our political process  elections, laws, policies, judicial rulings  cant possibly make everyone happy. Its impossible in a country as diverse as ours. But abortion is a different matter, emotionally painful and deeply private. All rights are bracketed. The right to punch someone in the face ends where the other persons jaw begins. But abortion impinges upon no one elses freedoms. No one can insist with any credibility that an abortion one county over is impacting your life on your side of the state line. So stay out of it.

Conservatives complain about liberals being the morality police. Yet they insist on imposing their morals on others whose lives they know nothing about. Conservatives say theyre champions of smaller government, until they dont like your lifestyle, your morals, your culture or your faith. Then the knives come out.

These people will stop at nothing to get what they want no matter who it hurts. Their selfish pursuits are in direct contradiction to the ideals of the great American experiment, whose spirit calls upon the nation to serve the greatest number of us while disadvantaging the least number, to welcome all comers of all faiths, all cultures, and all beliefs, to enjoy the individual freedoms of Americas promise. But not according to the anti-abortion crusaders.

Dont think this cant happen nationally. Project 2025 is a plan by conservative organizations to reshape the executive branch in ways many of us would find appalling. One of their proposals could virtually end abortions nationwide by dipping into another 19th-century law, just as litigants did in Arizona: the Comstock Act. This 1873 law barred the mailing of anything deemed obscene, including anything intended for producing abortion.

The issue wasnt fetal life, in that case, but sexual purity. The idea was to outlaw contraceptives and medical tools for performing abortions to prevent people from indulging in shamelessly sexual bacchanals.

Project 2025 would direct the Justice Department to use Comstock as a tool to outlaw abortion and the mailing of anything used to induce it: medical instruments, supplies, and, yes, abortion pills like mifepristone, which now account for more than half of all abortions in the U.S. During last months oral arguments before the United States Supreme Court to ban two drugs used in medication abortions, guess who cited Comstock indicating support for a ban: Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas, two notorious originalists. (Erin Hawley, the attorney arguing for restricting the pills, cited it as well.)

Funny how they cared little for originalism back in February when reviewing the Colorado Supreme Courts decision to disqualify Trump from the ballot under the 14th Amendment, Section 3. Trump argued that this would disenfranchise tens of millions of Americans and unleash chaos and bedlam. Good enough for Alito, but in his majority opinion overturning Dobbs, he asserted, We cannot allow our decisions to be affected by extraneous influences. You mean like overturning a 50-year-old precedent that disenfranchised tens of millions of Americans?

An originalist would agree that Section 3 of the 14th Amendment must be interpreted in light of the understandings of those who ratified it. Justice Thomas agreed. Thats what he wrote for the majority in a 2022 case, N.Y.S. Rifle & Pistol Assn, Inc. v. Bruen.

When the 14th Amendment was ratified, the understanding was that it prohibited insurrectionists like Jefferson Davis and fellow Confederate adherents from ever holding a federal office, including the presidency, or any office civil or military under the United States, or under any State.

I dont know about the justices of Arizonas high court, but here we have U.S. Supreme Court justices steeped in originalism only when its convenient while ignoring their originalist convictions when it doesnt fit their personal biases. Partisanship, not originalism, is the primary doctrine of this court. And like the litigants in the Arizona case, they dont give a damn about disenfranchising tens of millions of Americans, relying on laws that are obsolete. Theyre only still on the books because no one has ever bothered to repeal them.

Perhaps someone will dig up other zombie laws on the states books, especially those enacted before Arizona was a state, that the Arizona Supreme Court decides must be followed, as well. For instance:



Maricopa County prohibits more than six girls from living in any house, probably passed in the 19th Century over concerns about brothels. The county is also home to Arizona State University and its 28 sororities.



Another Arizona law from the 19th century: It was illegal for women in Tucson to wear pants.

In the Phoenix suburb of Avondale, fortune-telling and palm-reading are illegal. So is hypnotism, unless performed by a physician or dentist.



And once upon a time in Nogales, wearing suspenders would get you fined: up to $500 for women and up to $1,000 for men.

Hopefully, voters in Arizona and Florida (with its recently enacted six-week abortion ban) will follow in the footsteps of every other state that has voted to keep abortion legal and shove it up the keister of the selfishly self-righteous.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this piece said the law would go into effect in 14 days.

Related...
Every four years, you hear it: Elections have consequences. But its sometimes forgotten that the rule doesnt apply to just presidential races, but also to every race down ballot, every election.

To know why, look at what happened in Arizona this past week.

The Arizona state Supreme Court ruled an 1864 law banning nearly all abortions is enforceable, staying the decision for two weeks. On Wednesday, Republicans in the state Legislature blocked an effort by Democrats to repeal the 160-year-old law.

But whether or not its actually enforced was likely decided nearly two years ago by just 280 Arizona voters. That development shows why its vital to have plans in place to protect reproductive rights at every level of government.

Just months after conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices overturned Roe v. Wade, Arizonans went to vote in the 2022 midterms. Among the various races on the ballot that year was one between Democratic attorney Kris Mayes and Republican former prosecutor Abraham Hamadeh for state attorney general.

At that point, the possibility of Arizonas highest court reviving the 1864 law was hypothetical, but it was a dividing line between the two candidates. Hamadeh wouldnt say whether he personally supported it but vowed to interpret and enforce the law as written. Meanwhile, Mayes assured voters she would not prosecute medical providers who facilitated abortions and said that privacy clauses in the states constitution rendered abortion bans illegal in the state.

Mayes narrowly won that race in 2022, and as attorney general renewed her promise this week, closing off the potential for any state prosecutions of abortion clinics. And under an executive order signed by Gov. Katie Hobbs, who also won in 2022, county attorneys were stripped of the power to handle abortion cases. If that stands, Arizonans could continue to access abortion services until they get a chance to vote on a likely ballot measure this fall.

Again, to be clear, whether Arizonans will be able to get abortions this year will likely come down to 280 votes cast in a single race two years ago.

It did not have to be that close. The 2022 Arizona attorney generals race saw nearly 60,000 fewer votes cast than in the Senate race on the same ballot and more than 47,000 fewer votes than in the gubernatorial race. Tens of thousands did not vote in that race, passing up an opportunity to have their voices heard.

As Arizonans are learning the hard way, losing the ability to make decisions about your own body is no longer hypothetical. It is here, and it is deadly. Doctors in Arizona are scared for their patients lives. And its not confined to the Grand Canyon State.

In Ohio, Brittany Watts was arrested and criminally charged after suffering a miscarriage. A grand jury later dropped those charges. A Texas woman, Kate Cox, was forced to travel out of state to obtain an abortion for a pregnancy with a fatal chromosomal abnormality that put her health in jeopardy. Another Texas woman, Amanda Zurawski, wound up in intensive care with sepsis. She nearly died twice before finally getting the lifesaving care she desperately needed after her miscarriage. Now, due to the infection, Zurawski may never get pregnant again.

Dont be fooled by some Republican lawmakers insisting this issue should be left to the states  efforts to bring deadly abortion bans at the federal level are already well underway.

As recently as last month, 145 congressional Republicans signed an amicus brief to the Supreme Court, urging it to revive enforcement of the Comstock Act of 1873. That 150-year-old law could ban the mailing of pills prescribed for the most widely used method of medication abortion. If Donald Trump reaches the White House again, his administration could begin enforcing the Comstock Act with no input from Congress or the nations highest court.

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham reiterated his support for a national ban this week, even saying Trump is making a mistake by calling for the issue to be left up to the states (for now). A reminder: Trump has flip-flopped on this issue many times, at one point saying there should be some sort of punishment for women who receive abortions. It seems Trump will say whatever he thinks will get him elected, but that has little relation to what he may actually do in office.

From the federal level to the state level, Republican politicians think they know better than women and their doctors.

With Floridas six-week abortion ban set to go into effect next month, nearly every woman in the southeastern United States will live under an outright ban on abortion or severe restrictions. If an abortion is urgently needed, every second will count. These bans can and have endangered womens lives.

Majority-male legislatures are endangering womens lives and prolonging cycles of poverty. Theyre pushing past doctors and foisting their medical ignorance and bizarre fanaticism onto their constituents. Little girls are being forced to have their rapists child. Doctors are forced to choose between their patients health and their legal safety.

This is post-Roe America. And there will be no protection from its effects until the right of a woman to make decisions about her own body is codified into federal law. That wont happen until the political landscape on Capitol Hill changes. November is our chance to choose, and that election will have consequences for all of us.

For more thought-provoking insights from Symone Sanders-Townsend, Michael Steele and Alicia Menendez, watch The Weekend every Saturday and Sunday at 8 a.m. ET on MSNBC.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is warning the public about invasive apple snails found in live crawfish shipments due to their potential damage to aquatic ecosystems and threaten human health.

AGFC said the snails were found in shipments from Louisiana. While they havent been found in the wild in Arkansas, they have been found in Louisiana for many years.

(Courtesy: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission)

Apple snails are freshwater snails known for being popular in the aquarium trade due to their large size but can become problematic quickly as they outgrow their enclosures.

White-tailed deer in Arkansas tests positive for chronic wasting disease, AGFC confirms

Additional vigilance by Arkansans through inspections of any live crawfish shipments (no matter the source), will help prevent further spread of this invasive species that could affect native wildlife and Arkansass rice industry, AGFC said.

They are not native to the United States and made their way to Florida in the 1980s. Irresponsible aquarium dumping is believed to be the reason why the invasive snails got to the U.S., according to AGFC.

Wild populations have also been established in Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina.

PANTANAL, BRAZIL  2022/06/12: Pink Apple snail eggs on aquatic plants in a wetland near the Piuval Lodge in the Northern Pantanal, State of Mato Grosso, Brazil. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Apple snails lay bright pink egg masses just above the water on tree stumps and other objects with each cluster holding 1,500 to 2,000 eggs on average.

Harrison man breaks record for unrestricted tackle with bowfishing catch

Apple snails are known to carry rat lungworm, a parasite that can infect mammals (including humans) through the consumption of uncooked snail meat or contaminated produce. People with mild infections usually recover fully, but severe infections of the parasite can cause eosinophilic meningitis, AGFC said.

The eggs contain a neurotoxin that can cause skin and eye irritation if handed.

AGFC said they are working with Louisiana and federal agencies to increase public awareness of the invasive species.

Anyone who spots an apple snail, pink egg mass or a snail larger than a quarter in diameter is asked to report it on the AGFC website or by calling Matt Horton at 501-604-0485.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  After the Department of Justice announced a plan Thursday to close the so-called gun show loophole, Arkansas lawmakers reacted.

The proposal would tighten the requirements on those who sell guns. If anyone sells guns for profit, they must have a federal firearms license under the proposed rule. Those who have an FFL are required to do background checks on all buyers.

The Biden administration will require thousands more gun dealers to run background checks on buyers

Lawmakers who responded were unilaterally opposed to the change.

Rep. French Hill (AR-02) sees the proposed change as an attack on the Constitutions 2nd Amendment.

The Biden Administration has infringed on our Second Amendment rights since they took office, Hill said. President Bidens radical rulemaking is harming law-abiding businesses and is criminalizing law-abiding Americans.

The 400-plus page rule change would only criminalize Americans who are following the current law, the congressman added. Laws like this should be addressed by states, he said.

Rep. Rick Crawford (AR-01) said he did not think the law change would have the intended effect.

Despite what White House officials think, this new regulation will not make our communities safer from gun violence, Crawford said. People who illegally use guns to commit crimes dont care about background checks or filling out paperwork. The governments own National Firearms Commerce and Trafficking Assessment from 2023 showed that more than 1 million guns were stolen over a 5-year period from private citizens.

Attorney speaks on gun show loophole explained as cause for ATF raid on home of Bryan Malinowski

Crawford concluded that the Biden administration needs to focus its efforts on crime and criminals.

Rep. Steve Womack (AR-03) sees the proposed change as a constitutional attack.

Eroding the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens does not prevent senseless, horrific acts of violence, Womack said. The rule is an overreach and political ploy by President Biden ahead of an election, and its absent of real solutions to promote a safer America.

Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04) was skeptical, indicating he and his colleagues would defund it if it became law.

Todays announcement by the DOJ is just another overreaching step by the Biden Administration in its attack on Americans Second Amendment Rights, Westerman said. Ive already signed onto legislation to defund this rule, and I am working with my colleagues to advance further legislative solutions to defend our Second Amendment rights and directly counteract this onerous regulation.

Attorney General Tim Griffin indicated his office is either mounting or participating in a legal challenge to what is being proposed.

I have opposed this unlawful rule from the beginning, having joined 25 other attorneys general and a state legislature in voicing our opposition, Griffin said. Now that the rule has been finalized, I am reviewing my legal options. But the bottom line is this rule is clearly unlawful and should be withdrawn.

Bill to restore gun rights for certain former state felons will go before committee a second time

Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottons office were contacted for a response to the law change but had not responded by the time this story was published. When they respond the story will be updated.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
Arkansas lawmakers subpoena two in probe of Corrections Boards hiring of outside counsel

Arkansas Board of Corrections member Brandon Tollett answered questions from lawmakers during a legislative hearing on April 11, 2024. (Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate)

A legislative panel issued subpoenas Thursday to compel the appearance of a member of the state Board of Corrections and its outside counsel at an April 22 hearing.

The Joint Performance Review Committee has been looking into possible violations of state procurement law surrounding the Arkansas Board of Corrections hiring of a lawyer to represent it in litigation with the state. The committee heard testimony for six hours on April 4 from several prison board members and attorney Abtin Mehdizadegan, whom the board voted to hire on Dec. 8.

Lawmakers are investigating changes Mehdizadegan made to a procurement form and how the corrections board came to hire him without a formal bid process. In March, the board sought an emergency, retroactive appropriation of $207,000 to pay the attorney.

On Thursday, the committee issued subpoenas for Mehdizadegan and corrections board member Alonza Jiles, who has not yet appeared in response to lawmakers invitation to testify.

Believe it or not, this body has some authority, committee co-chair Rep. Mark Berry, R-Ozark, said in explaining the subpoenas. We dont use it that often, but when the Legislature is ignored, it is our responsibility to hold those people accountable in order to get them into this room to answer questions of this body.

The panel heard Thursday from two prison board members: Rev. Tyrone A. Broomfield, whos been on the board for close to 30 years, and Brandon Tollett, whom the governor appointed in late December after the board hired Mehdizadegan. Two Department of Corrections officials, Chief Financial Officer Chad Brown and Chief of Staff Wade Hodge, also testified.

The board and the department are separate entities, but the board has no source of funds independent of the department, Brown told lawmakers.

Chad Brown, CFO, Arkansas Department of Corrections (DOC photo)

Brown testified he first became aware the board likely violated state procurement law the same day it voted to hire the attorney, when the corrections departments chief procurement officer brought it to his attention.

After researching the issue and consulting other officials, Brown said he sent the Board of Corrections a memo on Jan. 19 outlining how they violated the procurement process and recommending two ways to resolve the matter: by seeking ratification of the lawyers contract through the procurement process or instructing the private counsel to file a claim with the Arkansas Claims Commission.

Responding to legislators questions, Brown said the corrections board held a 30-minute executive session in which board chair Benny Magness and member Lee Watson referred to a circuit ruling that declared the board had the right to hire its own attorney.

I said that may be true, but the funds come through the department, Brown said.

Someone on the prison board should have been in contact with the procurement office before it hired the attorney to determine what process it should have followed, he said.

Im not sure the department should have been involved in this, Brown told the committee. This is the boards contract, not the departments. Its not the corrections departments role to negotiate a contract.

Rep. Tara Shephard, D-Little Rock, asked Brown whether he felt the prison board intentionally violated the procurement law.

I told the board, I dont think you did this maliciously, Brown said.

Sen. Ben Gilmore, R-Crossett. (John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate) 03/27/2023

When Sen. Ben Gilmore, R-Crossett, asked Brown about his contacts with the boards compliance attorney, Mark Colbert, the corrections department official responded that when he texted Colbert about the possible solutions to the dilemma, the board attorney told him not to send questions via email.

Gilmore expressed concern that this seemed to be another attempt by people connected to the board to get around FOIA, the state Freedom of Information Act.

Gilmore and other legislators also asked whether board members had threatened Browns employment during the January executive session. Brown responded that they had not.

Lawmakers asked a similar question of Hodge, who noted that Magness said in an open board meeting that we had to pick a side in the ongoing legal dispute with the Sanders administration over the extent of the boards authority.

The post Arkansas lawmakers subpoena two in probe of Corrections Boards hiring of outside counsel appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Hot Springs County Sheriff was arrested in Arkansas on Wednesday, according to the Arkansas State Police.

Scott Finkbeiner is charged with misdemeanor sexual solicitation and felony unauthorized use of the Arkansas Crime Information Center.

Memphis police officer and suspect dead after shootout; multiple officers injured

ASP says Frinkbeiner surrendered to the Hot Springs County Detention Center.

His bond was set at $10,000.

This is a developing story. WREG will provide updates as they become available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
HEMPSTEAD COUNTY, Ark.  The Criminal Investigation Division of the Arkansas State Police is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Hempstead County that left a man dead.

According to ASP officials, deputies with the Hempstead County Sheriffs Office responded to a home in the 2900 block of Highway 73 on Thursday at 8:52 p.m. to serve a felony arrest warrant for 65-year-old Randy May.

North Little Rock police say man admitted to involvement in March bank robbery after traffic stop

ASP officials said the deputies spoke to May at the front door of his home before, according to a witness, he charged at the deputies with a machete.

Police said one deputy fired his gun at May and hit him. Authorities said May died from his injuries on the scene.

Woman shoots interstate drivers, says God told her to because of eclipse: Florida police

Officials said ASP CID agents will prepare an investigative file to be submitted to the Hempstead County Prosecuting Attorney who will determine if the use of deadly force by the deputy was consistent with state law.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The Memphis Police Department is searching for the suspect responsible for robbing an Independent Bank at gunpoint Thursday afternoon.

Officers responded to the Independent Bank located at 3295 Poplar Avenue at around 1 p.m. Police say an armed man walked into the business, waved a firearm at the clerk, and demanded money from the register.

(Photos and video courtesy of the Memphis Police Department)

The suspect took an undetermined amount of money and fled the scene.

He is described as a 6-foot-tall man with a thin build, wearing all-black clothing, black and blue Jordan 12 shoes, and a lime green safety vest.

Pair accused of adding stolen Challenger, Charger parts to car

Police say no arrests have been made at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

If you have any information regarding this incident, call Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
MILAN  The European Union has announced a milestone decision that involves pumping millions of euros into Armenias industries in an attempt to pull the country closer to Western allies and away from its historical ally, Russia.

Following talks last week in Brussels with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the bloc will invest 270 million ($287 million) over the next four years to support the countrys economy.

We will make investments to strengthen Armenias economy and society, making them more robust and stable in the face of shocks, she said at a media briefing on April 5.

Sectors in line for grants include infrastructure projects, renewable energy and small to medium enterprises.

While the newly announced aid does not explicitly include defense and security, experts note that some EU and NATO countries are separately deepening their military partnerships with Yerevan to that end.

France has established the most tangible defense cooperation with Armenia and has already provided military equipment to Armenia in the last several months, Sossi Tatikyan, an independent consultant on Armenian foreign and security policy, told Defense News.

Last month, French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu visited Yerevan to discuss the boosting of defense ties with his Armenian counterpart.

They recently signed a contract for the supply of rifles produced by the French company PGM and discussions are said to be ongoing for a potential sale of MBDAs short-range Mistral missiles, according to Politico.

Pashinyan announced in the same week that Armenia had suspended its membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organization, a military alliance dominated by Russia.

Armenia has been refusing to sign CSTO documents since November 2022 and participate in its meetings since last year  Armenian leadership has also stated that it is considering possible de jure exit from it, Tatikyan said.

In September of 2022, Azerbaijan launched a military offensive during which Armenia says the CSTO and Russia failed to step in to prevent casualties and the mass departure of thousands of ethnic Armenian residents.

Other signs that the South Caucasus country is attempting to stray away from Russian influence have included sending humanitarian aid packages to Ukraine and publicly stating that Armenia is not Moscows ally in the war against Kyiv.

The measures that Armenia has taken against the circumvention of our sanctions against Russia ... this shows that the EU and Armenia are increasingly aligned in values and interests, von der Leyen said.

Tatikyan also notes that Armenia and the United States have shared longstanding bilateral defense ties.

The two have conducted [a number of] joint military exercises [But] so far, their defense cooperation has addressed rather soft security aspects such as military education and dialogue, she said.

According to an April 11 interview by the U.S. ambassador to Armenia, Christina Quinn, with local media, Washington has agreed to provide the country with armored ambulances.

Last year, 80 American soldiers were sent to train with the Armenians as part of the Eagle Partner 2023 military exercise, likely irking Russia, which still has a military base in Armenia.

Editors note: This article was updated to correct a date reference to an Azerbaijan-launched military offensive.
The art of the unsent angry letter and why theyre so cathartic

Writing down irritations on paper  and then destroying it  really does calm angry feelings

EM Forster once asked: How do I know what I think until I see what I say?

The novelist has been proved right by a new study that shows how writing an angry letter, and destroying it, is cathartic.

In the Japanese festival of Hakidashisara, visitors to a shrine smash small discs representing things that make them angry to let go of their frustrations. Now, Japanese scientists have proved that the practice works in everyday life: writing down irritations on paper  and then destroying it  really does calm angry feelings.

The practice is nothing new

There are many famous angry writers. Abraham Lincoln was keen on what he dubbed a hot letter. He would divert all his rage into a letter and then add these words at the end: Never sent. Never signed.

One of his hot letters was to a Civil War general, George G Meade, blaming him for letting the Confederate general Robert E Lee escape after the Battle of Gettysburg. American writer Mark Twain was also keen on not sending his angry letters because they granted him unallowable frankness & freedom.

Mark Twain felt that his unsent angry letters allowed him 'freedom' - Corbis/VCG via Getty Images

President Harry S. Truman didnt send this letter he wrote to the Republican senator, Joseph R McCarthy: You are not even fit to have a hand in the operation of the government of the United States. I am very sure that the people of Wisconsin are extremely sorry that they are represented by a person who has as little sense of responsibility as you have.

Winston Churchill was a fan of the angry letter. In 1922, he wrote to the PM, David Lloyd George, saying that, when it came to Iraq, We are paying eight millions a year for the privilege of living on an ungrateful volcano out of which we are in no circumstances to get anything worth having.

Churchill never sent the letter.

Why does it work?

Writing an angry letter and not sending it is much wiser and sophisticated than yelling at your enemy. You cant take back letters youve sent. The same goes for the angry email or text  a second to send; a lifetime to forget.

Mary Killen, who appears on Gogglebox with her husband Giles Wood, writes the Dear Mary problem page in The Spectator.

In the days when I used to be upset by real or perceived slights and setbacks and had no one to talk to because there was no internet or social media, I scribbled away or typed my worries and feelings out, she says.

Sometimes it would take me 2,000 words before I reached the nub of what my problem actually was and how I could move forward. I wrote these words for my own consumption and no one elses. It mustve saved me a fortune in psychotherapy bills over the years, as I was able to come to exactly the same conclusions a therapist wouldve done.

Dear Mary deals with social problems but those who write in with proper problems, such as being beaten up or having addictions, are also helped by the clarification brought by putting pen to paper.

Orlando Bird, the letters editor of The Telegraph, agrees about the power of the pen.

He says: A letter to the editor can certainly be a way of letting off steam. These days, most of the letters we receive are emails, and you can often tell from the subject header when catharsis was the main objective (INCANDESCENT! TREASON!).

Some are clearly sent without any expectation that theyll be published; others are fired off in such a frenzy of rage that fairly important elements  an opening paragraph, say  are missing.

Winston Churchill was another believer in writing cathartic angry letters (and not sending them) - Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

With the best letters, though, even the angriest ones, theres usually been a deep breath and an attempt to order thoughts. And, crucially, theyre not just about the writer  theyre about the reader, too.

Im fed up with seeing television advertisements in which people dance, declared one Telegraph letter-writer Keith Rayner recently. A man is in a lift. He puts some chewing gum in his mouth, gets out of the lift and dances. Why?

Why indeed? asks Bird. The response verged on a national outpouring. Here was a sentiment, as the English poet Dr Johnson would no doubt have put it, to which every bosom returned an echo.

Letters that should have been destroyed before sending

The Letters of Note collections record wonderfully angry letters, including the classic 1993 feud between the British journalist Julie Burchill and American academic Camille Paglia.

When Camille refused to write for Burchills magazine, Modern Review, because of a bad review from her, Burchill fired off a broadside:

Paglia replied:

In 1971, John Lennon sent Paul and Linda McCartney a magnificent rant:

Harry Mount is author of Et Tu, Brute? The Best Latin Lines Ever (Bloomsbury; available from Telegraph Books)

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
For over 20 years, Mexican biologist Maria del Carmen Garcia Rivas has been dedicated to protecting the corals of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea. As the director of Puerto Morelos National Reef Park, she has pushed for changes to reduce water runoff and pollution from coastal development. Garcia has also worked on controlling invasive lionfish, which endangers the 670 species of marine fauna in the park. Since 2018, shes been leading efforts to restore coral reefs affected by diseases like bleaching. And another worry now keeps her up at nights  the vast sargassum blooms that wash up on the parks shoreline.

A worker clears sargassum from a Puerto Morelos beach in Quintana Roo, Mexico; 2019. Gladys Serrano

When sargassum, a floating macroalgae, reaches the coast, it starts decomposing, creating an oxygen-deprived environment that harms various organisms, said Garcia. It mostly affects immobile species like certain starfish, sea urchins, seagrasses and corals.

Huguette Hernandez Gomez, Secretary of Ecology and Environment for Quintana Roo, the state where Puerto Morelos National Reef Park is situated, says they cleared the beaches of 70 tons of sargassum in 2023 alone. Over the past four years, theyve cleared 200 tons.

A regional problem

Its the same story all across the Caribbean. While small amounts of sargassum benefit marine life, the large blooms since 2011 have disrupted the ecological balance in potentially irreversible ways. The algae further stresses Caribbean reefs already threatened by mass coral bleaching due to climate change. Sargassum patches cover up sea turtle nesting sites and overwhelm mangroves, important nurseries for aquatic species. In some areas, beaches have eroded due to algae removal using heavy machinery, with fishermen noting a significant decline in daily catches.

Tourists swimming around sargassum patches at Xcalacoco beach in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Gladys Serrano

Because of the significant scale of this fairly recent issue affecting areas from the West African coasts to the Americas, the full extent of the environmental damage it may cause is not well understood. Dr. Brian LaPointe, a biologist and sargassum expert at Florida Atlantic University, said, We havent made much progress in researching the causes, nor in how to deal with the problem and mitigating its effect on the environment.

Worlds second largest barrier reef

Garcias observations in Mexico shed light on the implications for the entire region. The park she manages is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MARS), stretching over 600 miles across Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. This reef, the second largest in the world after Australias Great Barrier Reef, is home to about 500 fish species and 60 stony coral species, according to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). It also supports the livelihood of around two million people in the Caribbean.

While floating sargassum can offer a healthy habitat, large amounts onshore can suffocate specific organisms, says James Foley, oceans manager at The Nature Conservancy. In places like coastal Belize, the issue gets worse because floating sargassum traps a bunch of marine litter  trash from rivers flowing into the Caribbean from Central America. So, it turns into quite a toxic situation.

Foley explains that floating sargassum acts as a barrier, blocking light and hindering organisms below from photosynthesizing. A 2021 study in Climate Change Ecology examined three bays in Quintana Roo and found that light filtration drops by up to 73% under floating sargassum patches, and water temperatures can rise by up to 5C (9F).

Moreover, Garcia says the bacteria in sargassum could also be affecting corals. The bacteria that manage to survive in sargassum patches not only affect corals, but also end up causing fish deaths. Garcia says that the most significant historical damage to corals still stems from coastal development and poor sewage and waste management, but the sargassum is aggravating the situation. When seawater is polluted, corals cant really thrive  it weakens them. And if corals get sick or stressed by the heat, theyre more likely to die.

Bleached coral in the Gulf of Mexico; September 2023. LM Otero (AP)

Dr. Camilo Trench, a marine biologist at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Jamaica, has raised similar concerns. The issue is that algae grow rapidly while coral grows slowly. When sargassum is present alongside other macroalgae, it can outgrow the coral reef. This not only limits space for coral growth but also diminishes settlement areas for coral nurseries.

Other species under threat

Coral is visibly impacted by sargassum, but its not alone. A study in Marine Pollution Bulletin looked at the damage caused by a huge sargassum influx on Mexicos Caribbean coasts in 2018. When all the sargassum decomposed, it clouded the water and led to the death of 78 wildlife species. Most affected were the demersal (bottom feeders) and neritic (coastal or inshore) fish, along with crustaceans.

Other scientists have raised concerns about how sargassum affects turtle nests. In 2017, marine biology professor Briggite Gavio from Colombias National University surveyed Cayo Serranilla, a tiny island at the northernmost point of the countrys Caribbean waters. The islands main inhabitants are a small military contingent and nesting sea turtles.

During Gavios scientific field work, 15 inches (40 centimeters) of sargassum covered the beaches. We were able to observe some baby turtles having trouble passing the barrier posed by the sargassum mat, and were vulnerable to predation by ghost crabs, rats and other predators, Gavio reported. Scientists from other Caribbean islands like Antigua and Barbuda have reported similar effects of sargassum on sea turtles.

Birds walk on a floating sargassum patch off the coast of Tulum, Mexico; August 2022. Eduardo Verdugo (AP)

Sargassum also appears to have a potentially lethal impact on Caribbean mangroves, an important natural barrier to hurricanes and nursery for marine life. These plants live by the seashore and rely on their aerial roots and underground respiratory roots for oxygen, said Camilo Trench. Imagine a sargassum mat covering mangrove roots, halting oxygen flow. This may lead to long-term death, similar to an oil spills impact. Like corals, mangroves can end up suffocated and damaged by sargassum, endangering other species that rely on them.

For Garcia, one fact stands out as particularly alarming: unlike other reef issues she deals with, the sargassum problem has no clear solution. We have not created a virtuous circle like, for example, with the lionfish, she said. Despite being an invasive species, [lionfish] can be caught and eaten, which mitigates the problem.

Last year, the State of Quintana Roo created a committee of 60 experts from different fields who worked for seven months to develop a comprehensive strategy for the management and use of sargassum in the state. The document covers eight main subjects: health, research, monitoring, knowledge management, logistics, utilization, legal framework, economic instruments, and crosscutting issues. One important achievement was appointing Quintana Roo as the authority empowered to grant permits for the productive utilization of sargassum. The state government issues permits for collection and disposal, streamlining the permit process and avoiding confusion about federal and municipal authority, said Huguette Hernandez.

A worker makes building blocks out of sargassum. Gladys Serrano

Combatting sargassum is expensive. The Mexican Navy was allocated $3 million last year to remove sargassum at sea with ships and anchored barriers. Similarly, Mexicos Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone was granted $7 million for beach clean-up efforts. In Quintana Roo, an additional $1.7 million was allocated to addressing the problem. And well spend at least that much this year, said Hernandez.

This repot was funded by a grant by the Institute of Journalism Training at the Center for Investigative Journalism, and supported in part by Open Society Foundations. Krista Campbell is a reporter for Television Jamaica.

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SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  Angelo State University has entered a partnership with the Air Force Sustainment Center headquartered at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in an effort to provide employment and learning opportunities and for ASU students.

The university signed a Memorandum of Understanding and an Education Partnership Agreement with the AFSC, a center that consists of over 41,000 military and civilian personnel across multiple locations who are charged with sustaining weapons system readiness through depot maintenance, supply chain management and installation support. The AFSC provides critical sustainment for the Air Forces weapons systems, including the latest in fighter, bomber, reconnaissance, tanker, transport and rotary aircraft.

The Air Force Sustainment Center will be another outstanding partner for Angelo State, providing unique opportunities and new career pathways for our students, ASU President Ronnie Hawkins Jr. said. Our students will greatly benefit from these internships as they will have the potential opportunity upon graduation to accept a job at more than 30 different locations nationwide to serve our country in a civilian capacity.

The partnership also offers ASU students a chance to enter an internship at the AFSC, where they will have students the opportunity to actively apply their academic knowledge through practical experience under the mentorship of seasoned military and civilian professionals. These internships include the following fields:

Business management and finance

Human resources and personnel programs

Procurement

Propulsion

Supply chain management

Workforce development

Education and training

Upon completion of their internships and graduating from ASU, the students may be eligible to apply for or be placed in open vacancies within the AFSC where they interned. If no local vacancies are available, the students may be assisted with applying for vacant positions at other Air Force installations.

This program will have a huge impact on the lives of the participating students, as well as on Angelo States national and global reputation, Hawkins said.

Recruiting for the first round of internships will begin immediately. The MOU agreement for the internship program will run through the 2026-27 academic year and is eligible for extension.

Additionally, the EPA agreement will provide opportunities for AFSC laboratory personnel to participate in science, engineering and mathematics educational outreach on behalf of ASU, including:

Teaching courses on campus

Developing science, engineering and mathematics course materials

Enlisting ASU students and faculty in collaborative defense laboratory research projects

Providing networking and professional development opportunities for ASU students

Providing academic and career advice to ASU students

Arranging tours of AFSC facilities and labs

Identifying additional internship opportunities

Additional entities included in the EPA agreement that may provide participating personnel include the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex and the Engineering and Technical Management Directorate.

This agreement will open up many new research opportunities for both our students and faculty, as well as enhance our teaching and research capabilities on campus, Dr. Don Topliff, ASUs provost and vice president for academic affairs, said. Our students will also be exposed to new career options and potential pathways, and our faculty will be able to collaborate with other professionals in their respective fields. This program will also significantly increase Angelo States presence outside of our region.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
ATCEMS: 1 seriously injured after motorcycle crashes into pole on South Lamar

AUSTIN (KXAN)  One person suffered serious injuries after a motorcycle crashed into a pole on South Lamar Boulevard on Thursday, Austin-Travis County EMS said on social media.

Around 4 p.m., medics responded to the crash in the 700 block of South Lamar Boulevard for the crash. Medics said the motorcyclist was thrown from the bike, and the motorcycle was on fire briefly.

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The person was taken to Dell Seton with serious injuries. Medics are no longer on the scene.

No other details were released Thursday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Austin budgeted more than $40M in ARPA funding for rapid rehousing, that money is going away

AUSTIN (KXAN)  Money the City of Austin received from the Biden administration to help deal with the blowback of the COVID-19 pandemic is running out  and with it, will come tough decisions about what programs the city will need to cut.

Were talking about American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money.

Advocates call on Austin leaders to prioritize permanent supportive housing in budget

Of the $188 million the city received in funding, the most recent expenditures report from January  which KXAN received through a Texas Public Information Act request  showed $104 million has not officially been spent yet, though all but $35 million has been obligated.

All of the funding has to be designated for projects by the end of this year, and all the money has to be spent by the end of 2026 for the city to keep it.

Rapid rehousing

The project the City designated the most ARPA funding to was rapid rehousing. According to those ARPA expenditure reports, roughly $42.5 million has been budgeted for rapid rehousing. Of that, $38 million has been obligated and $12.7 million has already been spent, as of January 1.

Alfredo Reyes Jr., and his partner Derek Cortez, are two of the Austinites who have benefited from rapid rehousing over the past few months. The uncertainty of what happens when the funding runs out, is hugely stressful for them.

City of Austin faces tough cuts when ARPA dollars run out, including homelessness services

Im in panic mode. Im very concerned. Im very concerned. Theres not a day that I go to sleep not thinking about it, Reyes said.

Vocal Texas, a group that works on various homelessness issues, surveyed dozens of people who have been in, or are in, rapid rehousing. They say of those people, they found many either didnt know where they were going to go when they were cut off after roughly a year  or had already returned to homelessness.

Its real tough. I just wish our case manager was just throwing us places, hey, just apply here. And my concern was, how much is the rent? Because youre not paying it after a year, Cortez said.

Other homelessness funding

Overall, the City of Austin earmarked more than $100 million in ARPA funding for various efforts to address homelessness, including:

Homeless rapid rehousing: $42.5m

Homelessness emergency shelters and crisis response: $25m

Homeless permanent housing capital expense: $11m

Homelessness supporting providers: $2m

Im hopeful about the future, even with the ARPA fiscal cliff, the fact that we have great partners at the table including ECHO, the fact that we have a council thats willing to prioritize homelessness, Austins homeless strategy officer, David Gray, said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Authorities arrest, tie Costco bomb threat and bank robbery in same Wisconsin village to one suspect

KENOSHA, Wis. (WFRV)  Authorities in southeast Wisconsin have announced the arrest of the suspect allegedly tied to a Costco bomb threat and a Chase Bank robbery that happened on the same Saturday afternoon in Pleasant Prairie.

Officers in Pleasant Prairie were first called to the Costco on 94th Avenue around 12:30 p.m. on April 6 after receiving a potential bomb threat. Within the same time frame, a bank robbery was happening at the Chase Bank on 39th Avenue.

Wisconsin authorities investigating complex, multi-state crime spree that ended with three dead, including a 13-year-old

Pleasant Prairie bank robbery bomb threat map

According to a Facebook post from the Pleasant Prairie Police Department (PPPD) on April 12, Paul J. Garcheck was arrested on charges related to both incidents at his home in Kenosha.

Garcheck was taken into custody following a search warrant at his home. Officers say the Kenosha Police Department Tactical Response Team and Special Investigations Unit assisted with surveillance and the execution of the search warrant.

Pleasant Prairie Police Department

Pleasant Prairie Police Department

18-year-old who caused Shawano County bonfire explosion is sentenced

It was noted that Garcheck will be charged with Terrorist Threats for the Costco incident and Robbery of a Financial Institution for the alleged robbery at Chase Bank.

PPPD worked tirelessly over the past several days to piece these events together, identify a suspect, run surveillance, and make an arrest. Wed like to thank the community for their support and the multiple tips that came in over the last week. Pleasant Prairie Police Department

No additional information has been released at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
Avian flu has been detected in NC cattle. What consumers should know about milk, beef

Less than two weeks after the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 was found in dairy cattle in Texas, North Carolina has become one of nine states to confirm the disease in cows.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday the virus, first found in wild birds, has been detected in a dairy herd in the state.

Heres what consumers should know about H5N1 in cows.

Are meat and dairy products safe to consume?

In a press release, DHHS said it has been conferring with the state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and that, Both agencies believe the overall risk to the general public remains low.

According to the release, There are no concerns with the safety of the commercial milk supply at this time because products are pasteurized before entering the market.

Pasteurization, which is sterilization through heating, deactivates viruses and bacteria.

The state warns that people should not consume or cook with raw or unpasteurized milk.

While its available from a small number of farms in the state for use as a pet treat, its illegal to sell raw or unpasteurized milk for human consumption in North Carolina.

The USDA has said that its not aware of milk from any infected cows reaching the commercial market.

The USDA says its confident the meat supply is safe. As always, we encourage consumers to properly handle raw meats and to cook to a safe internal temperature to kill bacteria and viruses, the agency says.

What do we know about H5N1 bird flu?

One of several highly pathogenic avian flu strains, H5N1 was first identified in 1996 in domestic geese in southern China, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. The next year, it began spreading to humans and eventually was known to have infected more than 860 people around the globe, killing more than half of them.

Since then, the virus has undergone genetic changes and has seen periods of faster and slower spread.

A new version of the virus appeared in 2021 and was detected in wild birds late that year in Canada and the United States. In February 2022, the CDC says, outbreaks began in U.S. commercial and backyard poultry, and sporadic infections began to be detected in mammals, including, occasionally, humans.

Who is at risk from the H5N1 virus?

So far, the CDC says, two human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) have been reported in the United States: one in Colorado in 2022 and one in April of this year in Texas.

The person infected in 2022 recovered in a few days and health officials say the person infected in Texas is recovering now, after experiencing conjunctivitis and getting treated with an anti-viral for flu. Both cases involved workers on farms with infected animals.

Less than two weeks after the first case in Texas, the highly pathogenic avian bird flu H5N1 has been found in dairy cows in North Carolina and seven other states.

What are the symptoms of H1N1 in humans?

The CDC says human illnesses with H5N1 can range from mild symptoms such as eye infections and respiratory symptoms, to pneumonia or multi-organ failure that have resulted in death in other countries.

Spread of the virus to humans has been limited and sporadic since 2016, the CDC says.

How does H5N1 spread?

Bird flu H5N1 is more of a danger to wild and domestic birds.

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the U.S. Department of Agriculture say that in 2022 alone, more than 40 million birds in 35 states died from disease or because farmers had to destroy flocks to prevent spread of the virus.

The CDC says infected birds can shed avian flu viruses in their saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Birds can become infected through contact with surfaces that have been contaminated by infected birds.

Since the start of the outbreak in February 2022, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says nearly 86 million birds have been affected and the virus has been detected in 1,118 flocks in 48 states, including three so far this year in North Carolina.

The veterinary association says H5N1 is unusual in that it causes disease and death in dozens of species of birds, many more than previous avian flu outbreaks.

How does the virus affect mammals?

The virus has so far been found in 18 kinds of mammals in the U.S., though this year marks the first time H5N1 has been detected in U.S. cattle. So far, all the herds affected in the U.S. have been dairy cows.

Until it was found in dairy cattle in the state, the only mammal in North Carolina known to have had the virus was a black bear confirmed in December 2022 in Hyde County.

The USDA says that in herds that show symptoms of H5N1, an average of one-tenth of the cattle appear to be affected, and very few cows have died. Cattle producers are told to watch for:

 Decreased herd-level milk production

 Decreased feed consumption

 Abnormal feces and fever in some cows

The USDA says that so far it doesnt appear that H5N1 is deadly to dairy cows or that the animals need to be destroyed.

Infected animals should be isolated to prevent the spread of illness to the rest of their herd, the USDA says.







How can backyard flocks be protected?

Bird flu H5N1 remains highly contagious for birds and is deadly to chickens and turkeys.

N.C. State Extension. specialists say backyard birds that have the potential to come into contact with migratory birds are at the highest risk for infection.

Watch out for symptoms of avian flu H5N1, which include:

 Low energy, appetite, activity, & egg production

 Oopsy eggs: soft shelled or misshapen

 Unwell Swells: Swollen head, eyelids, combs, & wattles

 Nasty Noses: Runny nares (aka nostrils of birds) & difficulty breathing

 Tripping, tremors and twisting: head & neck twist, birds stumble, circle and fall

 Unpopular purple and green goo: Purple wattles, combs, legs and green diarrhea

To protect backyard birds, extension specialists advise:

 Keep birds enclosed in a pen away from wild birds, especially when wild birds are migrating.

 Keep a pair of bird boots, shoes or boots that go only to your coop or are cleaned before leaving your coop or farm.

 Wash clothes, vehicles, hands and anything else that comes into contact with other flocks or migratory birds.

 If any of your birds develop symptoms, contact your veterinarian or call the NCSU Veterinary Office at 919-707-3250.

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Photo by Gage Skidmore (modified) | Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0

Republicans in the Arizona legislature are considering sending their own abortion measure to the ballot this November to compete with a citizen-led one thats already in the works.

A day after the state House of Representatives erupted in chaos over an attempt to repeal a Civil War-era abortion ban that was just deemed enforceable by the Arizona Supreme Court, Republican House Speaker Ben Toma told conservative talk show host James T. Harris that his caucus was considering all its options.

The near-total ban on abortion that is set to become the law of the land in June was originally enacted in 1864, almost 50 years before Arizona became a state. The Supreme Courts ruling could lure more Democratic voters to the polls this fall, threatening to upend Republicans tenuous control of the Legislature. The GOP has a one-seat majority in each legislative chamber, and Toma acknowledged the political difficulty of the situation.

A handful of Republicans, including some in competitive districts, are calling for a repeal of the 1864 ban, most notably Phoenix Rep. Matt Gress, who made the initial motion on April 10 to bring a Democratic repeal bill up for a vote.

Instead of voting on the bill, Gresss Republican colleagues voted to recess. But some GOP lawmakers have publicly said they also want to repeal the 1864 abortion ban, including Rep. David Cook and Sens. T.J. Shope and Shawnna Bolick.

Toma conceded that Republicans will face the consequences of their actions at the ballot box this November, and speculated that was motivating the Republicans  all of whom have professed to be anti-abortion  to push to allow abortions.

If the 1864 law is repealed, a 2022 law limiting abortions to 15 weeks of pregnancy would go into effect. More than 96% of abortions in Arizona took place in the first 15 weeks of gestation in 2022, the last year for which data is available.

They think what theyre doing is necessary to save the Republican majority in the November election, he said. In other words, I think they think sacrificing themselves is worth it if it results in Republicans keeping control of the House and Senate as a backstop to (Gov. Katie) Hobbs and some of the unhinged Democrats

Toma also acknowledged the political difficulty of the situation with national figures like former President Donald Trump, who has taken credit for U.S. Supreme Court justices he appointed stripping women of the constitutional right to abortion, and U.S. Senate Candidate Kari Lake flipping their stances on abortion and calling for the repeal of the 160-year-old ban.

What were asking is for our legislators to go against their ethical beliefs and to vote for something that would allow abortion, Toma said. Now, I understand what the reason for that is,  its a pragmatic argument that, if you dont do this, the outcome could potentially be much, much worse (politically).

Republicans are already facing a robust Democratic campaign to flip the legislature in the fall, and Democrats are counting on the passion surrounding the issue of abortion to bring more liberal voters to the polls.

Toma told Harris that Republican leaders still need to meet with their caucus members to discuss all the options, but that sending something to voters this fall, which would sidestep a veto of the legislation from Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, was one possibility.

There will be consequences. We will keep them in check, Toma said of House Democrats. We will look at all options, including potentially sending other referrals to the ballot. If there is a way to update the 1864 law in a way that can get signed  to be blunt with you, I just dont see how that happens with Hobbs as governor  but there are ways for us to go around her by going directly to the ballot, and thats all on the table.

The speaker also doubled down on his personal stance on the issue, saying that he is 100% pro-life and accusing Democrats who support the abortion rights voter initiative of backing partial-birth abortions.

Partial-birth abortion is not a medical term, but a phrase used by anti-abortion activists to describe a procedure that was banned at the federal level around 20 years ago.

The Arizona for Abortion Access campaign, which is spearheaded by several reproductive rights groups, has already collected more than the minimum number of signatures needed to head to the ballot in the fall. If voters favor it, the initiative would enshrine abortion rights in the Arizona Constitution, allowing the procedure up to the point of fetal viability  around 24 weeks of pregnancy  and allows exceptions after that point if a patients health care provider deems it necessary to protect the womans life or mental or physical health.

This extreme version that theyre pushing is worth us considering sending something to counter it at the ballot, Toma said. But its a very difficult situation to ask of our members.

Toma said he worried that asking other Republicans in the legislature to vote for a 15-week or 12-week ban, or a ban after a fetal heartbeat is detectable would put them at risk of attacks from their political opponents, who might dishonestly try to paint them as pro-choice.

But the legislature already passed a 15-week ban in March 2022 when Republican Gov. Doug Ducey headed the executive branch, and many of the Republican legislators who are still in office voted for it, including Toma. And Republicans included a section in that bill that specifically said the 15-week ban did not supersede the 1864 law, in anticipation of the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to strike down Roe v. Wade in June 2022.

Republicans arent wrong to be fearful of the consequences of their own actions, with one 2023 poll finding that as much as 62% of Arizonans believe that abortion should be legal in most or all cases.

While Trump and Lake have both suddenly softened their stance on abortion, Toma has not.

I, personally, dont think that, just because something is old, that its unjust or unconstitutional, Toma said. The Constitution is way older, as is our entire system of Judeo-Christian morality, because, I mean, the Ten Commandments are thousands of years old, if were being direct and honest here.

When the 1864 ban was first enacted, slavery was still legal in the United States, women didnt have the right to vote and scientists had not yet discovered that the uniting of the sperm and the egg was the process at the cellular level that resulted in pregnancy.

Toma told Harris that he shut down moves to vote on the Democratic bill on April 10 to give his caucus more time to discuss its options. With both chambers now only meeting one day each week  on Wednesdays  its difficult to say when any Republican legislation to counter what Democrats have proffered will be put to a vote.

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The post AZ House speaker: Republicans might put their own abortion measure on the ballot appeared first on Arizona Mirror.
AZ regulators consider conversion therapy unprofessional conduct, but have not prevented it

Illustration by LOOKOUT

For more than two decades, Floyd Godfrey advised young men not to act on their same-sex attractions as a licensed therapist in the state of Arizona.

But last year, Godfrey lost his license after the state board that oversees counselors opened an investigation into him for allegations of unprofessional conduct. But the investigation wasnt a look into his practice of trying to change peoples sexuality, which is considered a violation by the state board.

Instead, he was accused by two of his employees of sexual harassment. Godfrey voluntarily gave up his license before the investigation could be completed, and the board revoked his ability to practice in the state.

Specific details of investigations made by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners are confidential. But had they looked into Godfreys practice, generally, they would have seen his history as the founder of Family Strategies Counseling Center in Mesa, which employs therapists who advertised themselves as being able to treat unwanted same-sex attraction.

They would have also seen his time as a camp counselor with the organization Journey Into Manhood, which is designed for men to address distress over their same-sex attractions, according to a flier on their website.

Although there is no law expressly prohibiting conversion therapy in Arizona, the state licensing boardalong with 28 major medical associationsconsiders it to be unprofessional conduct and grounds for disciplinary action, such as revoking a license. That has been the boards position since at least 2017, when the American Counseling Association formally declared conversion therapy to be in violation of its code of ethics.

But, the boards Executive Director Tobi Zavala said there arent enough resources to preemptively investigate every counselor seeking a license or renewal. As a result, conversion therapists such as Godfrey have operated with relative impunity in Arizona.

A previous LOOKOUT investigation revealed two licensed professional counselors and one marriage and family therapist who continue to practice forms of conversion therapy in the stateall of whom hold current professional licenses to practice in Arizona in 2024.

Conservative pushback

Though there has been a history of bipartisan support at the legislature to regulate conversion therapy, bills relying on the board as the main enforcer have failedin part because of conservative lobbying groups that have argued on behalf of parents.

In 2017, Pima County passed an ordinance that banned conversion therapists from accepting payments when practicing with a minor. Anyone found to be practicing conversion therapy on minors for money would be subject to a civil penalty of up to $2,500.

That ordinance was met with fierce criticism from the Center for Arizona Policy, which said the ordinance would prevent minors from seeking out counseling to reduce unwanted same-sex attraction.

The ban ultimately passed 3-2.

At the state level, though, there has been less success. Former Sen. Sean Bowie (D-Tempe) continually introduced a bill to define conversion therapy and classify it as unprofessional conduct when practiced with minors. He introduced the bill every session from 2018 through 2022.

But Senate leadershipwhich decides what bills are heard and debated onnever assigned the bill to a committee and effectively killed the debate, even with Republican co-sponsors.

In 2022, during Bowies last year in office, former Speaker of the House Rusty Bowers (R-Mesa) and former Rep. Amish Shah (D-Phoenix) proposed a bill that bundled together nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people as well as a ban on conversion therapy for minors, but gave carve-outs to clergy members.

But Center for Arizona Policy President Cathi Herrod testified against the bill, saying: Parents are denied the right to oversee the healthcare of their children, by denying them the ability to seek helptreatmentfor their child to overcome unwanted same-sex attraction and confusion about their same-sex identity.

The bill, despite being debated at a special hearing, was not given a vote.

Failure to get bipartisan legislation on this topic passed through the Capitol illustrates the influence wielded by groups such as the Center for Arizona Policy, which continues to fight against conversion therapy legislation. The group is part of the lobbying arm of Focus on the Family, an organization that promotes conversion therapists in its Christian Counselor Network, an online search portal for religious-focused therapists and counselors.

The Center for Arizona Policy also distributes a voter guide which has candidates responses on a number of issues, including one on whether or not they support the rights of parents to seek professional counseling for their minor child with same-sex attraction or gender identity issues.

A 2017 action alert from the Center for Arizona Policy regarding the Pima County ordinance against conversion therapy. In it, the organization says that the county is promoting an LGBT agenda.

Bowie said that Republican leadership has refused to allow debate on the subject saying they dont want any of these bills to pass, whether its non-discrimination ordinances, whether its banning conversion therapy, Bowie said. Theyve been very clear that they want to go in the opposite direction.

In the 2024 session, Representative Patty Contreras (D-Phoenix,) introduced HB2789, a bill almost identical to Bowies proposal to ban conversion therapy for minors. House Republican leadership again did not assign it to committee for a public hearing.

Until we get a Democratic majority, I dont think youre going to see a lot of movement on this, Bowie said.

Had any of the bills passed, conversion therapy would have been defined and listed in Arizona statutes for the Board of Behavioral Health Examiners to refer to. Instead, it relies on the American Counseling Associations code of ethics.

But a simple definition wouldnt have solved the difficulties the board faces today in ensuring all their licensees are acting ethically and professionally.

Godfreys case

Godfrey began practicing in 2001 as a Certified Associate Counselor and gained his full license in 2002. The original website for his practice was healinghomosexuality.com, and he was listed as a former staffer for the conversion therapy camp, Journey Into Manhood.

In his 2022 book Healing and Recovery  Perspective for Young Men with Sexualized Attachments, Godfrey described his own sexual attraction to other men as something that came about because of unfulfilled needs for male friendship: My wounds were related to low self-esteem and rejection from men and boys, he wrote.

A screenshot from Floyd Godfreys website, sexualizedattachments.com. Godfrey openly states he uses a Biblical-worldview that influences his practice.

In Godfreys book, he encouraged readers to examine their own attractions and relate them back to past trauma: Just because young people experience sexual attractions to the same sex, does not mean that its inherent, Godfrey wrote.

Last year, two of his employees reported him to the Board of Behavioral Health Examiners for sexual misconduct.

The details of complaints are confidential under state law, but a document summarizing the action the board took provides some context for the complaints. The four separate complaints included a claim that Godfrey had asked to get naked in front of one of the employees, who is referred to only as him.

When reached for comment, Godfrey denied the allegations.

According to board records, Godfrey voluntarily surrendered his license before the board could conduct a full investigation of the complaints: Prior to Board staffs formal investigative interview with Respondent, and without completing the psychosexual evaluation, Respondent contacted Board staff requesting to voluntarily surrender his license.

In his statement to LOOKOUT, Godfrey wrote that following the loss of his license, he does not provide any clinical services nor clinical supervision at Family Strategies. His personal website, sexualizedattachments.com, describes him as part of the executive team at the center, working as an advisor and consultant.

Godfrey also denied practicing conversion therapy. I was unaware of anyone at Family Strategies who did conversion therapy, he wrote.

A previous LOOKOUT story highlighted a survivor who received conversion therapy from John Hinson, a counselor at Family Strategies.

Board investigations

From July 2022 to June 2023, the board received 235 complaints, none included conversion therapy as a reason to investigate.

And there have been no formal complaints or cases related to conversion therapy in the past decade, according to Zavala, the licensing boards executive director.

Although the board has the power to open up cases on their own, unprofessional conduct is discovered almost entirely by individual complaints. And with oversight of more than 16,000 licenses as of August last year, the board lacks the resources it would take to proactively look into every counselor, Zavala said.

Were not police, she said. If you think about it, that would exhaust every resource that we had.

Budget records show the board spent just over $1.5 million on employee expenses in fiscal year 2023, which includes four full-time employees tasked with investigating misconduct.

There are also problems with the states statute of limitations on what the board can investigate. Unless the conduct involves a malpractice settlement, sexual misconduct, a felony, or practicing while impaired with a substance, complaints can only be investigated within four years.

If somebody were to allege that there was conversion therapy that happened to them when they were 15 and theyre now 21, we dont have legal authority to regulate that, Zavala said.

In Feb. this year, Gov. Hobbs sent a letter to all of the state medical boards requesting them to formalize and standardize the process for deciding when to issue disciplinary action.

Hobbs referenced reporting from the New Times and Arizona Republic about complaints made to the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery by a woman who alleged her body was substantially disfigured after her surgery. That surgeon has not yet faced disciplinary action.

The governors letter was sent to all the medical boards, including the Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. That review process is due to the governors office on July 1, 2024.

The post AZ regulators consider conversion therapy unprofessional conduct, but have not prevented it appeared first on Arizona Mirror.
Baltimore's Key Bridge, a vital transit and shipping route, collapsed last month after being hit by a cargo ship. The incident has left members of the community fearing for their future.

Following the deadly bridge collapse, the Port of Baltimore suspended operations, resulting in 8,000 job losses. Many dockworkers have not been paid for weeks and are waiting for cargo ships to resume operations so they can start working again.

Some are still working at nearby smaller ports or on the little cargo that remains in Baltimore from before the bridge collapsed. But that's nothing in comparison to the flurry of activity this port once was.

PHOTO: The cargo ship Dali sits in the water after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore, Md. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

The urgency of the situation is reflected in crews working tirelessly to remove the debris and restore Baltimore's port. However, this is a perilous task that demands immense effort. Commander Bill McKinstry from the U.S. Coast Guard informed ABC News that the divers are grappling with poor visibility due to the water conditions, with only about a foot of visibility.

The enormity of the task ahead for the U.S. Coast Guard and other teams is evident when you consider that the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which was once a crucial transportation link, now lies in the Baltimore Harbor as a massive block of steel and concrete. As a result, most of the harbor is inaccessible to the outside world.

MORE: What the cargo ship bridge crash in Baltimore means for the economy

The Army Corps of Engineers is setting an ambitious goal of clearing a channel for smaller cargo ships by late April and reopening the entire port by the end of May.

The port's absence has plunged the dockworkers, who have been the backbone of their families for years, into a state of uncertainty. They are grappling with the question of how long they can hold on before seeking alternative employment.

Richard Krueger, president of Local 953, said this situation is a crisis and it's the fear of the unknown.

"We don't know how long they are going to be off," Krueger said. How long is it going to take them to open the channel? How long do they have to get through this because they have to pay the bills? And nobody knows. And the truth is we don't know, we don't know, we don't know when the channel is going to be open."

The crisis affects not only dockworkers but also residents and workers on the waterfront, leaving them uncertain about meeting basic needs such as food, mortgage and rent payments, car payments and tuition fees. Krueger says hundreds of families are affected.

The Port of Baltimore ranks as the ninth largest port in the United States by trading volume. Last year, the port managed to handle 52.3 tons of foreign cargo, which was worth around $80 billion. This feat made it the ninth-busiest port in the country for handling such goods.

U.S. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore stated last month that the port is the top-performing port in the U.S. for handling heavy farm and construction machinery, imported sugar and gypsum.

"The Port of Baltimore is a key component in Maryland's transportation network," Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said in a statement last month.

PHOTO: In an aerial view, cargo ship Dali is seen after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Mar. 26, 2024 in Baltimore. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

One of the biggest imports at the port are new cars, but no new shipments have been coming in, leaving Nick Olszewski, a port employee, in limbo. Olszewski's job is to check the batteries in new cars.

He is worried he might lose his job if the channel doesn't clear soon. Olszewski also forecasts that shipping rates will increase for various items and consumers will suffer.

"Some people work week to week," Olszewski said. They're going to really be hurting."

MORE: Biden visits site of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Olszewski works at the port, but plenty of small businesses surrounding the area will suffer because their loyal customers will not show up anymore. One of the small businesses in the area is Herman's Bakery in Dundalk, Maryland, a neighborhood in what was once the shadow of the Key Bridge.

Larry Desantis, the head baker, works at the bakery and claims to have been one of the last individuals to cross the Key Bridge before it collapsed.

"It makes me think, you know, I'm really lucky," Desantis said. "One minute later and I wouldn't be here."

The city of Baltimore is in a state of mourning after the loss of a bridge that played a crucial role in the daily lives of its residents. As the reality of having to navigate the city without this vital infrastructure starts to set in, the community is grappling with the challenges that lie ahead.

Baltimore bridge collapse has dockworkers in fear for their future originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
(Bloomberg) -- Bank of America Corp. closed out its recommendation for investors to bet on declines in the Mexican peso against the Brazilian real, saying that worries about the US southern neighbor are taking longer to materialize.

Most Read from Bloomberg

We got stopped in long BRL/MXN and have lost conviction as Brazils politics are more volatile than expected, the banks strategists said in a note on Friday. Moreover, our concerns about MXN (weaker US labor market, US election risks) keep getting postponed.

The Mexican peso has strengthened more than 3% against the US dollar since BofA initiated its recommendation on Nov. 17, lagging only the Colombian peso among its developing-nation peers. The real weakened about 5% during the same period, with traders growing wary of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva administrations attempts to meddle in big Brazilian corporates.

Read More: Mexican Peso Is So Strong Investors Fear Betting Against It

The popular cross-currency ratio between the Mexican peso and the Brazilian real is at its highest level since 2003, thanks to a combination of an attractive carry-to-volatility ratio, relatively stable politics in Mexico, record remittances from workers in the US and the so-called nearshoring trend.

The Wall Street bank, which initiated the long BRL/MXN recommendation with a target of 4.00 and a stop of 3.25, said the trade was closed at 3.24 on Wednesday.

It voiced caution about the Mexican currency. We think that MXN positioning is literally the highest ever, the strategists wrote.

Non-commercial traders  a group that includes asset managers, hedge funds and other speculative market players  are the most bullish on the peso since early 2020, according to data from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

--With assistance from Carter Johnson and Davison Santana.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Futuristic movies like Blade Runner have always fascinated Istanbul-born Refik Anadol, especially ones with thinking machines. Ive been obsessed with the idea of teaming up with computers since I was eight  Im a huge sci-fi fan, said the artist who created Unsupervised (2023), the first exhibition to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) in New Yorks Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Anadol, whose work has been exhibited at prestigious venues like the Venice Biennale, the Pompidou-Metz Center (Paris), and Casa Batllo (Barcelona), told us that his projects aim to demystify algorithms. He delves into their potential to create, dream, and even hallucinate. Still, his work with AI comes at a time of intense ethical debates about these tools. While supporters say Analdols work is innovative, critics argue it merely serves as propaganda for tech giants.

Question: When did you start exploring the connection between art and artificial intelligence?

Answer: Ive been into computing and art since high school, especially 3D design, photography, and videography. While studying multimedia art and design at UCLA, I really got into the idea of painting or sculpting with data. I wanted to blend these techniques into architectural design, transforming buildings into living canvases. As I built my team over the years, we delved into various repositories with data on things like beating hearts, the weather, and the brain. My AI journey kicked off in 2016 when I became Googles first resident artist. Prior to that, I hadnt really dabbled in AI formally, but that opportunity opened the door for me. In a span of eight years, we sifted through over 400 billion images, listened to 100 years worth of recordings, and combed through millions of articles and books. Our mission was to dive into the shared memory of humanity.

Q: Why did you choose data as your raw material?

A: Data lets us see the unseen. Its like the language of the future, connecting us with machines and our surroundings. When I think about data, I dont just see numbers  I see memories that can shape ideas and forms. Its a whole new world of possibilities and vocabularies opening up.

A Refik Anadol piece at New York's Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Q: Why use artificial intelligence as an artistic tool?

A: Ever since I was a kid, Ive always felt like machines could be an extension of ourselves, you know? Its not like your average tool, like a paintbrush. AI, on the other hand, tries to mirror reality. But what really gets me going is wondering if it can truly learn, dream, or even have hallucinations. Art sometimes springs out of these unexpected hiccups and glitches that artificial intelligence produces. Weve been at this for about eight years now, creating over 300 systems, and each time we train the models, we stumble upon something new. Its not just about clicking buttons  we start from scratch every single time, and its always a different journey. Think of AI like a paintbrush that has a mind of its own.

AI has the right to see and learn everything it can, but I understand why people object

Q: You said AI can dream. Do you believe AI can be creative on its own?

A: Right now, it cant quite create like humans. Theyre simulations, and I like that. Maybe someday itll surpass our abilities and gain consciousness, but thats a ways off. For now, Im excited about its potential to craft new worlds and stories. Its a whole new type of creativity.

Q: Do you think AI will one day be able to appreciate art on its own?

A: I think its possible. Perhaps one day Ai will pull it off, but itll always mirror us somehow. Until then, well still search for that human touch, even in these machines and codes. I picture them evolving to feel empathy for humanity. Currently, theyre in a cold, algorithmic mode where they just mimic logic. If AI could make that leap forward, I think the spirituality and emotion that art evokes would be what initially inspires the AI.

Q: Can AI produce art that is fundamentally different from what humans can create?

A: The Unsupervised project tackles this issue. We trained a model with 820,000 images of MoMA art for a year to see if it could come up with something fresh. In our study, we tasked the system with imagining new shapes, colors and patterns without copying any existing piece. After all that, I realized that AI can invent new vocabularies, languages, styles and aesthetics. So, yes  I believe it can create new forms and languages. Honestly, Im not certain if its on par with what humans can do or if its fundamentally different, but its definitely a powerful tool.

Q: How much effort does the artist put in versus the AI?

A: Its about half and half. Artificial intelligence handles the basics like color, shape, and movement, and then we come in with the complexity. But I make sure were equal partners. Its all about working together and creating stuff together.

An AI-generated piece by Refik Anadol on display at New York's Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Q: Besides museums, youve partnered with companies like Nvidia, a semiconductor manufacturer. Is art becoming more intertwined with the business sector?

A: Yeah, more and more. Companies like Google and Nvidia are totally transforming our lives with tech. Understanding its impact on society is key. I just had an an opportunity to share a stage with Nvidias CEO. It feels like were in a new Renaissance, when artists were commissioned by merchants to create art for churches and chapels. These partnerships open up endless possibilities. Artists are really pushing the boundaries on how we can use these technologies in ways we never thought possible.

Q: But a large part of the creative community opposes AI.

A: I understand why people have doubts. But heres my way: I collect my own data and train my own models. Every artist using this tech should take ownership and responsibility. Thats how you do unique, groundbreaking, ethical stuff. We team up with museums that openly share their databases and information. AI opens doors, but it also implies responsibility. Artists must find ethical ways to create this kind of artwork.

AI opens doors, but also implies responsibility. Artists must find ethical ways to create this kind of artwork.

Q: What are your thoughts on tools trained with the intellectual property of other artists?

A: I feel like AI should be able to see and learn as much as possible. But I get why some people are not okay with that. Its an ongoing debate. These tools are pretty amazing, but I think if you want to make something creatively groundbreaking, you must bring in that human touch.

Q: What excites you most about the future?

A: I appreciate the positive response to our recent exhibitions in London and Rotterdam, drawing in thousands of visitors. Our work unites people beyond just digital displays. By demystifying AI, we help people understand how it works and grasp its significance. Our upcoming project in Los Angeles in 2025 aims to pioneer an innovative artistic form, one that engages all of the senses. Its an exciting new frontier were venturing into.

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Barcelona's Park Guell is so popular with tourists that they often overwhelm the local 116 bus route - ALEXANDER SPATARI/MOMENT RF

Barcelona authorities have removed a bus route through a hilly region of the city from Google Maps to stop tourists elbowing out elderly locals.

The number 116 is a minibus with room for just 20 passengers in the narrow streets of Barcelonas Gracia district.

It had become saturated with backpack-carrying tourists in recent years because it stops at Park Guell, a landmark designed by architect Antoni Gaudi,

Barcelonas city council increased the frequency of the service, but residents still complained that they were often unable to find a seat.

Cllr Albert Batlle said earlier this year that city hall had decided to remove the bus from route searches and other internet tools.

Cesca Sanchez, a member of the Park Guell neighbours association, said the removal of the 116 from Google Maps recommended route service had made a dramatic difference overnight.

Sounded absurd

We laughed when we first heard the idea because it sounded absurd and futile, Ms Sanchez told the digital newspaper elDiario.

But now we are amazed because the measure really is being effective:

Among the residents once again enjoying the service in relative peace this week was 75-year-old Luz Lopez.

Before it was so full that locals could not all get on and sometimes people with walking sticks were left waiting for the next bus, she said.

Questioned about the move to remove the route from Google, Barcelona city hall was coy.

A couple of months ago we approved a plan to improve mobility in La Salut neighbourhood around the main access to Park Guell, which among other things included a measure to see if this bus could be removed from the mobility apps, a council spokesman said.

Hotel moratorium

They added that it was still too early to decide on whether the move had been effective.

The Telegraph approached Google for comment.

Barcelona has battled against what many see as over-saturation from tourism in recent years.

In 2017 the city imposed a moratorium on all new hotels and tourism rental apartments, although the current council has said it wants to loosen these regulations.

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In the post-Dobbs era, weve witnessed an old political truism be turned on its head: that Republicans dominate special elections.

Since the right-wing Supreme Court overturned Roe and upended our politics, Democrats have performed four percentage points better than Joe Bidens 2020 results, according to data from the Daily Kos.

These highly-engaged, politically tuned-in voters just keep showing up in off-cycle elections that are much more about turnout than they are persuasion. Theyre the same ones that helped Democrat Janet Protasiewicz smoke Republican Dan Kelly by over 10 points in a very expensive, high-profile battle for the Wisconsin Supreme Court majority in 2023. And those voters are already seeing results, as the court has knocked down the states gerrymandered maps, breaking Republicans manufactured and anti-democratic dominance of the statehouse.

On Thursday, liberal Wisconsin Justice Ann Walsh Bradley announced that she would not seek reelection, setting up another barnburner for April 2025.

My decision has not come lightly. It is made after careful consideration and reflection, she said in a statement. I know I can do the job and do it well. I know I can win reelection, should I run. But, its just time to pass the torch, bringing fresh perspectives to the court.

That race will be just as existential as Protasiewiczs. The court is expected to take up cases that will determine the future of abortion access in the state, though they may take them up while Bradley is still on the court. Still, itll likely be a main theme of the 2025 race: Brad Schimel, a former state attorney general who is already running, opposes abortion rights. Such a platform would let Democrats bundle their special election juice with the issue that has bolstered turnout unlike any other.

From abortion to voting rights to, well, keeping Donald Trump from stealing elections, the importance of state Supreme Courts, particularly in swing states, has come into sharp focus in the recent political era. Democrats will bank on their new off-year strength holding steady as they look to secure their control of the court. If they win next year, they can take a breath  conservatives will be defending seats on the court in 2026 and 2027, locking them out of the majority until at least 2028.

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handout photo made available by the Iranian supreme leader office shows Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaking during the Eid al-Fitr ceremony in Tehran, Iran, 10 April 2024. According to the Iranian supreme leader's official website, Khamenei said that Israel 'should be punished and it will be punished' following the recent airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Syria which Iran blames on Israel.Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei leads Eid al-Fitr ceremony, Tehran, Iran Islamic - Shutterstock/Shutterstock

In this episode of Battle Lines, we speak to Middle East Correspondent Nataliya Vasilyeva about Irans potential strike on Israel, then our Asia Correspondent Nicolas explains why the rebels are winning the war in Myanmar. Finally, Europe Editor James Crisp reflects on his interview with NATOs Deputy Secretary General.

Across the world, from Europe to Asia, from the Americas to the Middle East, tensions are rising between nation states as the traditional alliances and alignments evolve in the 21st century.

2024 sees war in Europe and Israel, and elections in major economies, from the US and the UK to Taiwan. Insurgencies flare in Yemen and Burma, tensions escalate in East Africa, and all around the world the international security architecture buckles under increasing pressure.

Battle Lines, a new podcast from The Telegraph, combines on-the-ground reporting with analytical expertise to help the listener to better understand the course of world politics, wars and tensions, as fault lines grind and slip in an increasingly dangerous and confusing multipolar world.

Listen to Battle Lines using the audio player in this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or your favourite podcast app.

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EXCLUSIVE: The BBC has quietly cut by two-thirds the length of news bulletins on Greg James Radio 1 breakfast show, one of the UK broadcasters most important ways of reaching young people.

Newsbeat updates on Breakfast with Greg James have been slashed from three minutes to just one minute this week, with the BBC declining to provide a reason for the change.

More from Deadline

BBC insiders are concerned about peak-listening news bulletins being butchered, with one person telling Deadline that they cant understand how it can be defended.

There is suspicion that the change has been made in a naked attempt to keep hold of listeners in the week Capital launched a revamped breakfast show with former Radio 1 DJ Jordan North.

The BBC declined to comment on whether shorter bulletins are a tactical short-term switch or a more strategic permanent change. Not a great look either way, said an insider.

The BBC made a promise to protect Radio 1s news output under changes made to the corporations operating licence by Ofcom last year.

Radio 1 was moved to an annual news quota of at least 280 hours a year, whereas previously the station was expected to broadcast at least an hour of news a day.

As part of the regulatory update, the BBC said it had no plans to change its Radio 1 news output. Ofcom said it expected the BBC to continue with its current provision.

Radiocentre, commercial radios industry trade body, lobbied against the changes, arguing that they could result in Radio 1 broadcasting less news overall.

A commercial radio insider said the BBC had a duty to explain the shortened breakfast bulletins, particularly at a time when there are concerns about the publicly-funded broadcaster treading on private sector toes.

The BBC announced in February that it will launch brand extensions of stations including Radio 1, while the corporation is also planning to carry ads around podcasts on third-party platforms, such as Spotify.

Radiocentre said it was evidence of the BBC interfering with the market and failing to provide distinct public value.

Best of Deadline

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BECKLEY (WVNS)  With Future Forward 2024 ending, The Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a special dinner.

The 103rd Annual BRCCC Dinner is on Thursday, May 9, 2024. To honor Bill Withers, they are having a Lovely Day red carpet affair.

Raleigh County Sheriffs Office investigates allegation against Independence High School coach

The Community Service and Leadership Award is being presented at the event as well.

Michelle Rotellini, President and CEO of the Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce, said tickets are on sale.

It is a red carpet affair. We are very excited. [It is] themed after our local legend  Bill Withers. Tickets are available by calling the chamber or going online to our website, said Rotellini to 59News.

The event kicks off at 6 P.M. with dinner starting at 7 P.M. Rotellini says tickets must be bought in advance for the dinner.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
Belgium will investigate suspected Russian meddling in European Parliament elections after the countrys intelligence services found evidence of pro-Russian interference networks, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said on Friday.

Moscows objective is to help elect more pro-Russian candidates to the European Parliament in order to weaken the EUs support for Ukraine, De Croo told reporters.

A recent investigation by Czech authorities uncovered a pro-Russian influence operation in Europe involving espionage, said De Croo, which highlighted that Moscow has approached EU members of parliament and even paid some to promote a Russian agenda.

Belgian intelligence services confirmed the existence of pro-Russian interference networks with activities in several European countries including Belgium, said De Croo, adding that Belgiums judicial authorities confirmed that Russian interference would be subject to prosecution.

The cash payments did not take place in Belgium, but the interference does, De Croo added.

He did not name suspects or give further details of agencies or people alleged to be involved in the influence peddling.

On Wednesday, in a statement co-signed by the Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, De Croo called on other EU member states to consider the creation of a new framework to counter Russian interference and said he would bring up the topic during the EU leaders summit on April 17 and 18.

A new reality

Russia has not publicly commented on Belgiums allegations.

The goal is very clear: a weakened European support for Ukraine serves Russia on the battlefield, and that is the real aim of what has been uncovered in the last weeks, he said. These are very serious concerns and that is why I have taken action we cannot allow this type of Russian menace in our midst. We need to act and we need to act both on the national level and we also need to act on the EU level.

He went on to say that Belgium has a responsibility as one of the seats of EU institutions to uphold that every citizens right to a free and safe vote can be maintained, but that more tools to fight Russian propaganda and to fight Russian disinformation are also needed on an EU level.

We are in a new reality and we need to adapt to that new reality, he said.

Belgium currently holds the presidency of the EU. The next elections to the European Parliament will take place from June 6-9, according to the European Council.

The EU has donated billions to Ukraine in military support since the start of Russias invasion in February 2022 and has sanctioned Russian officials. But Viktor Orban  Hungarian Prime Minister and ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin  has held up Kyivs membership negotiations with the EU and delayed aid deals.

Far-right and populist parties, some of whom are considered sympathetic to the Kremlin, are expected to make gains at the European Parliament elections. There are concerns that this would influence  and possibly weaken  the EUs overall support for Ukraine.

European support for Ukraine has become increasingly important as US support for Kyiv has faltered in recent months. European officials regularly discuss how possible it would be for the gap in funding to be plugged and fear what implications a Donald Trump return to the White House might mean.

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Prime Minister Alexander De Croo told reporters on Friday that Belgium's intelligence services had confirmed the "existence of a pro-Russian interference network with activities in several European countries" which is "subject to prosecution" in the country.

A recent investigation led by Czech authorities revealed lawmakers sitting in the European Parliament in Brussels had received cash from a Moscow-backed influence operation to "promote" its propaganda in the bloc.

"The cash payments did not take place in Belgium, but the interference does," De Croo said.

"As Belgium is the seat of the EU institutions, we have a responsibility to uphold every citizen's right to a free and safe vote," he added.

It comes just over two months before EU voters head to the polls to elect 720 members to the European Parliament, and amid mounting fears Kremlin proxies could be using information manipulation to skew the democratic vote.

Three of the major factions of the European Parliament - the centre-left Socialists and Democrats, the centrist Renew Europe and the Greens - have called for a swift investigation, and the parliament's press services have confirmed to Euronews they are "looking into" the allegations.

While De Croo was unable to specify how many EU lawmakers could face prosecution, Czech media citing intelligence officials have said the allegations involve politicians from Germany, France, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands and Hungary.

The Czech investigation resulted in the sanctioning of two individuals and news company Voice of Europe, through which investigators say the Russian operation had been channelled.

MEP Maximilian Krah of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), has spoken out after being associated with Voice of Europe, asserting that despite giving interviews to the company, he had not benefitted financially.

"There is no specific allegation that I was paid for any of these," Krah said on X. "This shows what to think of the current campaign: Nothing!"

Belgium calls on EU to step up

De Croo said he had discussed the probe with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola as well as Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and had asked Eurojust, the bloc's agency for cooperation on criminal justice, to "convene and discuss this matter urgently."

De Croo also wants to examine whether the mandates of both the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) and the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) can allow for a "prosecution" in the case.

"If that is not the case, we should broaden these mandates," he added.

Belgian authorities are also currently investigating a sprawling corruption scandal involving MEPs and other parliament officials, accused of receiving cash in exchange for wielding their political influence in favour of officials from Qatar, Morocco and Mauritania.

But the probe has faced turmoil and put the Belgian judicial services to the test, with the previous prosecutor forced to step down following allegations he was not impartial.

The numerous debacles in the Belgian investigation have led many to brand the case as 'Belgium-gate'.

De Croo said his authorities remained "dedicated" to their role as "consensus builders" and would continue to work "not just in the interest of Belgium, but for the entire EU."

He supported the Czech Republic's proposal to look at slapping EU-wide sanctions on individuals connected to the propaganda network, but said that the people who "receive" bribes also need to be scrutinised as part of the Belgian investigation.
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belgian prosecutors are looking into possible Russian interference in the upcoming European Parliament election following findings provided by intelligence services, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said on Friday.

He said investigators found that Russian groups are meddling in the European election to push forward pro-Russia candidates and thus weaken European support for Ukraine against Russia's two-year-old invasion.

"The objective is to help elect more pro-Russian candidates to the European Parliament and reinforce a certain pro-Russian narrative in that institution," De Croo told reporters.

"Weakened European support for Ukraine serves Russia on the battlefield," he said.

De Croo said the Belgian investigation was launched after Czech authorities found pro-Russian agents active in Brussels seeking to influence, and even pay, European lawmakers to promote a pro-Russian agenda.

It appeared that cash payments were not made in Belgium though interference had occurred there, he said.

Western nations have repeatedly accused Russian operatives of using social media and the internet to spread false or misleading information to undermine them, promote Russia or attempt to sway public opinion election campaigns.

Russian authorities have repeatedly denied the accusations.

Ahead of the European elections in June, parties that have criticised EU support for Ukraine, such as France's far-right Rassemblement National, Austria's Freedom Party and Germany's AfD, are set to gain more votes than five years ago.

De Croo has said he had asked for an urgent meeting of the European Union's Agency for Criminal and Justice Cooperation (EuroJust) to discuss this matter, and suggested that OLAF, the EU anti-fraud office, should prosecute the case.

"We have a responsibility and our responsibility is to uphold that every citizen's right to a free and safe vote can be maintained," he said.

(Reporting by Inti Landauro; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Former president Donald Trump speaks to reporters after arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 10, 2024, before attending a political fundraiser.

Days after a New York judge expanded a gag order on Donald Trump to curtail inflammatory speech, the former president tested its limits by disparaging two key witnesses in his upcoming criminal hush money trial as liars.

In a post on his Truth Social platform Wednesday, Trump called his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, and the adult film actor Stormy Daniels two sleaze bags who have, with their lies and misrepresentations, cost our Country dearly!

In an order first made in March, and then revised on April 1, Judge Juan Merchan barred Trump from making public statements about probable trial witnesses concerning their potential participation in the investigation or in this criminal proceeding.

Merchans order didnt give specific examples of what types of statements about witnesses were banned. He noted the order was not intended to prevent the former president from responding to political attacks.

The gag order also barred Trump from making public statements of any type about jurors, court staff, lawyers in the case or relatives of prosecutors or of the judge. Trump is allowed to make critical comments about the judge himself and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

It was unclear whether the judge might consider Trumps criticism of Cohen and Daniels a violation of the gag order.

Both are expected to testify in the trial, which involves allegations that Trump falsified business records at his company to disguise the true nature of payments made to Cohen to reimburse him for a $130,000 payoff made to Daniels. The payment, Cohen says, was intended to keep Daniels from talking publicly about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump that the Republican says never happened.

Gregory Germain, a professor at Syracuse University College of Law, described the latest post as a close call unlikely to result in Trump being held in contempt.

I suspect hed argue that he criticized their general character, and was not commenting on their potential participation in the investigation or proceeding, Germain said.

But Stephen Gillers, a professor at New York University Law School, said Trumps comment brands the two witnesses as liars, which goes to the heart of what the order forbids.

Thats exactly what a gag order doesnt want you to do before trial when a potential jury could be influenced, he said.

Trump and his attorneys have said the gag order violates his free speech rights and prevents him from responding to public attacks as he runs for president.

Daniels has spoken out about harassment shes received from the former presidents supporters, who she said were encouraged and commended by Trump.

In a text message Thursday, Cohen said the attacks were meant to prejudice the jurys opinion of him.

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A building at U.C. Berkeleys School of Law on Jan. 30, 2020. Credit - Jane TyskaDigital First Media/East Bay Times/Getty Images

The University of California at Berkeley has long been known as a hub of social activism, and Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of its law school since 2017 and a renowned constitutional law expert, has been a staunch proponent of the First Amendment rights of protesters. Earlier this week Chemerinsky, who is Jewish, was the subject of posters depicting a caricature of him that he later said he believed to be deeply offensive and blatant antisemitism but that he also believed had a right to be displayed as protected speech.

It may then have come as a surprise to Chemerinsky that just days later he would be at the center of the latest flashpoint in a heated ongoing debate about free speech on American college campuses amid tensions over the war in Gazawith activists accusing him of stifling their expression.

Controversy erupted after video was shared online of Chemerinsky and his wife, law professor Catherine Fisk, confronting a Muslim law student, Malak Afaneh, who disrupted an event on Tuesday in their back yard to make a pro-Palestinian speech. She wanted the school to withdraw investments of its endowment in companies that allegedly support Israel. Chemerinsky was hosting about 60 graduate students for an unrelated dinner when the incident occurred. Please leave our house, Chemerinsky angrily pleaded to Afaneh. Youre guests at our house, he said. Fisk could be seen touching Afaneh and trying to grab her microphone.

The incident soon went viral from clips spread on social media that collectively garnered over 10 million views across various platforms, including a widely-shared one with a caption that said: On the last day of Ramadan, UC Berkeley professor assaults a hijabi.

Catherine Fisk, a professor at Berkeley Law, ASSAULTS a Muslim Hijabi law student, while her husband Erwin Chemerinsky, DEAN of Berkeley Law screams LEAVE OUR HOUSE.



In the end, violent white supremacists with fancy degrees.



These elite institutions are 



cc: bayareapym pic.twitter.com/leocbbxhWj  saira rao  (@sairasameerarao) April 10, 2024

In other footage, according to the Los Angeles Times, Fisk could be heard saying, We agree with you about whats going on in Palestine. As Afaneh and several other students were seen leaving the place, one of them asked, Then what have you done about divestment? Nothing. Nothingto which Fisk replied, We dont control the investment.

The controversy that ensued has since drawn sharp reactions from those at the center of the incident, including Chemerinsky and Afaneh, as well as a number of legal experts, advocates, and organizations weighing in on the matter.

Heres what theyve had to say.

Erwin Chemerinsky

In a statement published on the Berkeley Law website, Chemerinsky said that he and his wife had been inviting students to their home for dinner since he became a dean. I never imagined that something that we do to help our community would become ugly and divisive, he said. I am enormously sad that we have students who are so rude as to come into my home, in my backyard, and use this social occasion for their political agenda.

Chemerinsky at his home in Oakland in 2021. Carlos Avila GonzalezThe San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images

In an interview on CNN, Chemerinsky elaborated on why he thinks he was the target of such a protest, explaining that he has no control over the investments of the University of California and claiming that hes said nothing in support of what Netanyahu is doing in Israel  so its hard for me to see any reason why they were coming after me other than I was Jewish.

Chemerinsky has not said whether he would pursue disciplinary action against Afaneh, but he told legal journalist David Lat that, if he does, it would remain confidential.

U.C. Berkeley

University Chancellor Carol Christ, who is leaving the position at the end of June, said in an emailed statement cited by media outlets that she was appalled and deeply disturbed by the events at Chemerinskys dinner. While our support for Free Speech is unwavering, we cannot condone using a social occasion at a persons private residence as a platform for protest, she said.

Dan Mogulof, a University spokesperson, told NBC that he could not comment on whether legal or disciplinary action would be taken against Afaneh, Chemerinsky, or Fisk.

Malak Afaneh and her supporters

Afaneh, a leader of the group Berkeley Law Students for Justice in Palestine, said in a statement that Fisks assault was a symbol of the deeper Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian racism and religious discrimination that runs rampant within the UC administration.

I was attacked not only for speaking about Palestine but also because I was a Muslim woman who dared to wear a hijab and a keffiyeh and speak in my native tongue of Arabic, equating my identity with something that should be feared and someone who deserved to be silenced, the statement continued.

I was not attacked because I was speaking about Palestine, Afaneh told KQED. Quite to the contrary, I was attacked because I was simply a Muslim woman wearing a hijab and a keffiyeh in her home.

Berkeley Law Students for Justice in Palestine supported Afaneh in a statement on Instagram: As students at UC Berkeley, we unequivocally condemn the use of force against the brave Palestinian, visibly Muslim student who wanted to peacefully speak about Ramadan.

Other pro-Palestinian groups have also defended Afaneh and criticized what they allege was inappropriate suppression of her rightful advocacy.

The National Students for Justice in Palestine said in a statement on X that it was unacceptable for the school to host an official Ramadan event at the private home of Islamaphobic faculty members. It added: Hosting such an event off-campus intentionally muddles the line between the private/public sphere & thus functions to quell student protest.

And the Berkeley Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine group posted on Instagram that it was united in solidarity with Malak and condemned the violent and racist actions of Chemerinsky and Fisk.

Rights and civic advocacy organizations

Zahra Billoo, executive director of the San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), where Afaneh also works as a clerk, said in a statement that Students at UC Berkeley have reported being targeted and harassed for their Palestine advocacy for many months now, not just by fellow students but also faculty and administrators.

It is concerning to see [Chemerinskys] and Professor Fisks violent response to a student speaking out against the Israeli genocide in Palestine, Billoo said.

Both CAIR-SFBA and Berkeley Law Students for Justice in Palestine have urged the public to send template emails calling for disciplinary proceedings against Fisk and the resignations of both Chemerinsky and Fisk, respectively.

The National Lawyers Guild, a legal advocacy group which Afaneh cited during the incident, also condemned the couples actions. Physical force in response to the exercise of the right to dissent through speech is never acceptable, and is especially outrageous when condoned by a renowned legal scholar and educator, it said in a statement posted on X. The NLG expresses full support to this courageous law student who asserted her right to free speech by choosing to speak truth to power at a school-sanctioned event.

Meanwhile, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) said on X that college campuses have been experiencing for months disruptive anti-Israel protests that target students for abuse and even violence.

Now, theyve targeted UC Berkeley Dean Erwin Chemerinsky in his home, AJC said. This is not free speech; its an infringement on the freedoms and dignity of Jews, both on and off campus, and it must stop.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), which advocates for civil liberties especially on college campuses, shared its disapproval of Tuesdays dinner protest in a post on X: Peaceful protest on public campuses is protected speech. Disruptive protest and trespassing on private property is not. The First Amendment doesnt protect seriously disrupting events on public college campuses, much less at someones backyard dinner party.

Legal scholars

The incident has sparked discussions and even some disagreement among legal experts and commentators about whether students had the right to protest on Chemerinskys private property on Tuesdayand if he was right to stop them.

Eugene Volokh, a law professor at UCLA and renowned civil liberties scholar, argued that students did not have a constitutional right to protest at Chemerinskys home. When government buildings arent opened up for public speech, people dont have a First Amendment [right] to give speeches there, he wrote on his legal blog, The Volokh Conspiracy. And that is likewise true for private homes, even when they have public law school parties hosted there.

While some have claimed that Fisk and Chemerinsky had the authority to use reasonable force to eject an unwelcome guest from their home, New York University law professor Rob Howse posted on X that he believed Chemerinsky and Fisk mishandled the situation. Noting that not all the details were totally clear, he said: As legal academics, we need to look at these incidents and ask what kind of response reflects good professionalism in the academy. Escalating to physical confrontation in this scenario does not, in my view.

Jameel Jaffer, the executive director of the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, posted on X that the commandeering of the dinner was bound to backfire, and theres no serious argument it was protected by the First Amendment. Jaffer described the entire episode as very sad, concluding that it was a mistake for students to vilify Chemerinsky and that there has to be a more constructive way of engaging with him.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Berlin's Mayor Kai Wegner speaks at a press conference in the cafeteria of the Efeuweg campus. Alina Schmidt/dpa

Berlin's mayor, Kai Wegner, has denounced plans by pro-Palestinian activist groups to hold a Palestine Conference in the city at the weekend, promising a firm police crackdown on any statements deemed anti-Semitic by authorities.

"It is intolerable that a so-called Palestine Conference is taking place in Berlin," Wegner, a politician from the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU), told dpa in a written statement.

Police in Berlin have taken a generally tough stance toward pro-Palestinian protesters since the start of the war in the Gaza Strip, which followed the bloody October 7 attacks on Israel led by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Authorities have put strict conditions on pro-Palestinian demonstrations, or banned them outright, citing concerns that anti-Israeli statements could cross the line into outright anti-Semitism.

Protesters and critics, however, have accused authorities in Berlin of violating democratic freedoms of speech and assembly with the crackdowns.

"We do not tolerate anti-Semitism, hatred and incitement against Jews in Berlin. That is why the Berlin police will take consistent action if anti-Semitic statements or criminal acts are made at this meeting," Wegner said. "I would like to thank the Berlin police officers for their commitment to ensuring law and order in our city - and protecting and defending our values."

The pro-Palestinian event has been called to begin on Friday and run until Sunday. The organizers said it will take place at an event location in Berlin's southern Tempelhof district.

According to the organizers, the conference will include several key note speakers as well as workshops and panel discussions.

According to the police, they are examining the possibility of imposing restrictions on the gatherings, and are also prepared for spontaneous demonstrations and rallies in connection with the event.
Welcome to Trail Mix, your 2024 election sanity guide. See something interesting on the trail? Email me at jake.lahut@thedailybeast.com. To get Trail Mix in your inbox, subscribe here for free.

This week, we find some surprising praisealong with some hefty demandsfor President Biden from the progressive, pro-Palestinian base. Plus, Trumps attempts to address the GOPs big abortion problem, and drama out of the Michigan Senate race.

UN-UNCOMMITTED?

After six months of brutal war in Gazaand six months of stateside organizing, outrage, and protest ballots from American progressivesan opportunity may finally be emerging for President Joe Biden to win back the potential votes he lost over his support of Israel.

Even the presidents biggest pro-Palestine critics are acknowledging he is improving his standing among those who threatened to withhold their votes for him in the November rematch with Donald Trump. Theyre pointing to Bidens advocacy for an immediate temporary ceasefire and his increasingly harsh criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as signs he is listening.

Netanyahu Is Making a Mistake in Gaza, Biden Says

Layla Elabed, a Palestinian-American activist in Michigan who has been one of the most prominent voices warning Biden and Democrats about the domestic political ramifications of the Gaza war, said the past week has her feeling more encouraged than at any point previously in the conflict.

We have seen a shift in language, a shift in the Biden administration and with Biden himself in the way that theyve talked about their policy around whats happening in Gaza and how Israel is handling this, Elabed told The Daily Beast. We definitely saw a shift in narrative and a shift in language.

Others on the left are sensing a shift in Biden, too, and are crediting the movements persistent organizing.

Beth Miller, the political director of Jewish Voice for Peace, a Jewish anti-Zionist organization, told The Daily Beast the grassroots pressure has been working.

Biden calling for a ceasefire was an incredibly important move, said Miller, who said she was speaking in her personal capacity and not on behalf of Jewish Voice for Peace.

Its unclear, of course, exactly how many frustrated progressives have been moved by Bidens dialed-up criticism of Israel. But persuading even some of them could make a huge electoral difference in November.

Elabedthe younger sister of Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Congresss only Palestinian-American memberwas a lead organizer of the Listen to Michigan campaign, which galvanized over 100,000 Democrats to cast an uncommitted ballot in the states presidential primary in February.

Attendees listen to speeches during an "Uncommitted for Joe Biden" primary election night watch party on February 27, 2024 in Dearborn, Michigan. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

In 2020, Biden won Michigan by 154,000 votes. In other states with substantial pro-Palestinian activist forces, the margin was even narrowerlike Pennsylvania, where Biden won by 81,000 votes in 2020.

Both states will be critical to Democrats hopes of defeating Trump. Indeed, Elabed said the goal of the Listen to Michigan campaign was not to deal Biden a serious blow but help him save his presidency by shifting his approach to the Gaza war.

While activists welcome the change in Bidens tone, they insist that the president can only shore up his coalition by delivering substantive policy changeslike conditioning U.S. military aid to Israel on concessions from Netanyahu to significantly curtail or end his offensive.

There is a depth of anger with the progressive electorate around this issue where a rhetorical shift alone will not be enough to get these voters back, said Joseph Geevarghese, the executive director of Our Revolution, the progressive group that emerged from Sen. Bernie Sanders 2016 campaign.

Geevarghese said Biden needs to use the power of the purse to win these voters back. Thats where conditional aid comes in. Base voters who care about this issue want to see the U.S. government use its leverage, not just the bully pulpitand the leverage here is financial, he told The Daily Beast.

Even then, the biggest danger for Biden still looms: that his six months of generally backing Israel during its bombing campaign, which Gaza health officials say has left over 30,000 Palestinians dead, have ensured that some progressives simply can never stomach voting for him again.

For some voters, theyre going to have to vote their conscience, Elabed said. And it will be hard to vote for a president who weve been begging since October to change policy and change course.

Uncommitted Gaza Protest Vote Pulls in Nearly 20% in Minnesota

Biden allies recognize the threat.

There are gonna be some people who just arent gonna show up, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, a progressive Biden supporter whos been a critic of the Israeli government, told The Daily Beast.

Ellison, the first ever Muslim elected to Congress, said the issue is deeply personal for some voters, especially those whove lost family members to the war. However, he insisted the party can make it up by turning out low-propensity voters who dont always show up.

There's enough occasional voters to make up the difference, Ellison said, citing the cities of Flint and Detroit as two prime examples where the Democrats could boost turnout in Michigan. And by the way, I think that this debate the uncommitteds are driving is healthy, we do need to discuss this issue. So I dont begrudge those folks at all.

Indeed, many Democrats hope the organizing will end up improving Bidens chances at re-election, not hurting them.

When you look at the uncommitted movement and the folks who are involved in organizing there, Rich Luchette, a longtime Democratic strategist, told The Daily Beast, theyve been very careful in their messaging that this is part of an effort to push the administrations foreign policy and not necessarily to topple the president as the Democratic nominee, or to move third party, or to even vote for Trump.

The Biden campaign welcomed the debate in a statement affirming the presidents desire to bring the bloodshed to an end.

The President believes making your voice heard and participating in our democracy is fundamental to who we are as Americans, campaign spokesperson Charles Lutvak told The Daily Beast in an email. He shares the goal for an end to the violence and a just, lasting peace in the Middle East. Hes working tirelessly to that end.

Uncommitted Campaign in Michigan Shatters Expectations Against Biden

Democrats may also be hoping that Trumps own remarks on the war will sharpen the contrast and ultimately galvanize pro-Palestine voters to show up for Biden. The former president has been far more hawkish on Israel and has repeatedly talked about civilian deaths as being more of an optics issue than a human rights concern.

Overwhelmingly, what most folks are saying in those spaces is theyre terrified of a Trump administration, said Miller, the anti-Zionist activist.

As she keeps up the pressure on Biden to bring about an end to the war, however, Elabed yet again spelled out the same consequences the president has been facing for six months.

Unless the president continues to shift in rhetoric and policy, she said, hes putting Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of his own re-election.

FOLLOW THE LEADER

Donald Trumps vague announcement earlier this week that he would leave abortion decisions to stateswith the obvious implication being that he wouldnt sign a national abortion banmanaged to piss off both Democrats and Republicans.

Democrats predictably blasted Trump for letting state lawmakers undermine abortion protections, while also noting the former presidents hypocrisy. And for conservatives, Trumps decision to play politics with an issue they believe is as clear as life and death left them deeply disappointed.

But according to several Republicans tasked with winning down-ballot races in Novemberespecially House and Senate racesTrumps statement was a salvation.

The thinking is Trumps position, no matter how transparently political the announcement, gives House and Senate candidates a chance to follow his lead, downplay the threat that Republicans and Trump pose to abortion access, and unite with the partys standard bearerall while trying to undermine one of the most potent attacks Democrats have this year.

It took the threat of a national abortion ban off the table, said a top Republican operative, because Trump is saying he doesnt want it.

This really kind of kneecaps that argument, the operative continued, adding that now Republicans are going to have to go fight back against Democratic attacks and make clear what their current position is on this issue.

Even Never Trumpers Think His Abortion Game Is a Smart Move

That kind of focused attention would be a departure from the partys strategy in 2022, when, the operative said, Republicans buried our heads in the sand on abortion.

While GOP operatives thought this was a crucial step for Republican candidates, it may not be so easy.

Trump paved the way for the current state of abortion laws in the country, something he has proudly and repeatedly touted for years. In the days after his call to leave the issue to the states, a court in Arizona upheld an 1864 law that almost entirely bans abortion in the key battleground state, citing the Supreme Courts 2022 Dobbs decision repeatedly in their order.

While Trump and other Republicans quickly said the court went too far, the Arizona decision highlights what leaving it to states looks like for Trumpwhich may prove to be a key motivator for Democrats in November.

But the calculus may be different down ballot, these Republican operatives said.

Its a huge net benefit for us, another top Republican operative working on House races told the Daily Beast. The House is going to be won or lost in New York and California, all states where very liberal abortion laws are enriched in the states constitutions. So this weakens any line of attack from Democrats on our guys.

Of course, Democrats arent having any of that. The party has roundly tied Trump to the decision in Arizona, Bidens campaign released an ad on Thursday where the President says womens lives are in danger because of Trump, and Democrats in key House and Senate races have long signaled the plan to make abortion a central issue in November.

For months, Republican operatives advising House and Senate candidates have been urging candidates to oppose a national abortion ban and support exceptions, like in cases of rape, incest, and when the life of the mother is threatened. All of those positions are backed up by internal GOP polling.

We have to make sure our position is well-known and we have to talk about it constantly. Because if we dont, we allow the Democrats to define it for us, said a top Republican operative working on House races.

Easier said than done. Many of the partys top candidates have taken conservative abortion positions for years, meaning any shift to keep up with the changing politics on the issue will not only look politically motivated but could open them up to charges of hypocrisy from the right.

Arizona Republican U.S. Senate candidate Kari Lake at a news conference on February 29, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. Rebecca Noble/Getty Images

Take Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake in Arizona. The Trump ally and election denier quickly called the Arizona courts decision out of step with Arizonans and urged her states lawmakers to roll back the courts decision with legislation. And she put out a video on Thursday that echoed Trumps position on the issue.

And yet, two years earlier, Lake was so familiar with the 160-year-old law that she brought it up by its numberARS 13-3603telling conservative James T. Harris that she was incredibly thrilled with what she called a great law.

NOT A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

When he nabbed a Trump endorsement a month ago, Mike Rogers declared he had all but locked up the GOP nomination for U.S. Senate in Michigan.

This thing is done, Rogers said on a podcast shortly after receiving the most coveted MAGA prize. His polling in the Republican primary went up 40 points practically overnight.

Michigans GOP Chair Drama Takes Another Nasty Turn

The reaction since then, however, suggests the primary is hardly done. The former congressman has been taking heat from across the GOP spectrum, from the MAGA wing to those who oppose Trump.

Rogers, who briefly flirted with a 2024 presidential run against Trump, built his career in Congress as a bipartisan dealmaker. He also said Trumps time has passed in 2022 and has called the former presidents tactics clearly destructive.

A Reagan-era Republican who left Congress months before Trump launched his 2016 campaign, Rogers is an odd fit with a GOP base that craves extreme rhetoric and a fire-and-brimstone vibe from its candidates.

Indeed, last month, 25 of Michigans 60 delegates to the Republican National Convention called on Trump to un-endorse Rogers in favor of a strong conservative.

It wouldnt be the first time a state GOP reshaped in Trumps image has turned on a Trump pickand it also wouldnt be the first time Trump has retracted his complete and total endorsement.

Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers during a congressional hearing when he served as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. Scott J. FerrellCongressional Quarterly/Getty Images

Not only are Republican hardliners going after Rogers for appearing too moderate, but one of the states most prominent Never Trumpers is also putting his feet to the fireand running against him in the primary.

Former Rep. Justin Amash (I-MI), who left the GOP after calling to impeach Trump in 2019, said Rogers might have the worst record of anyone I served with in Congress in a March 11 tweet.

At the core of Amashs case is outrage over Rogers tenure as chairman of the House Intelligence Committeewhich, ironically, may resonate with a MAGA faction that is deeply suspicious of the Deep State.

Amash went after Rogers as having repeatedly weaponized the government against Americans as the chief advocate of warrantless surveillance programs like FISA 702, a statute that has authorized wiretapping of foreigners by U.S. intelligence agencies.

All of this infighting is music to the ears of Michigan Democrats, who are gearing up for one of the nations most competitive and expensive Senate races. Their likely candidate is Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), who is favored in her primary against actor Hill Harper.

Michigan Republicans chaotic, bruising intra-party fight is getting even nastier as Revolving Door Rogers faces attacks on his record of enriching himself at Michiganders' expense, Sam Chan, a spokesperson at Michigan Democratic Party told The Daily Beast. The brutal infighting in the Republican Senate primary will leave them with a damaged nominee who is out-of-step with Michiganders.

POLLING STATION

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., is the first to say it.

The only group that I dont do well in are baby boomers, Kennedy said at a town hall event with Patrick Bet-David, an entrepreneur and conservative YouTuber.

Even though one might assume that the Kennedy family name would resonate more with voters who recall the familys heyday, baby boomers are indeed the age demographic least supportive of his independent presidential bid.

RFK Jr. Campaign Officials Pro-Trump Tweets Surface: Report

Kennedys theory of the case is simply that the boomers watch too much TV, saying at the same event if that was the news bubble that I was living in, Id have a very low opinion of myself as well.

Polling shows hes not completely off base, but the picture is more complicated than that. The more common denominator among baby boomers isnt TV, but simply that theyve been paying closer attention to the 2024 campaign than everybody else.

As former pollster Adam Carlson pointed out in a thread on X, Kennedy keeps doing worse month over month among voters older than 65 in national polls, on average. YouGov/Economist polling from February also shows those same voters are paying attention far more than their generational cohorts, with more than half actively tuning into the campaign.

The only group which came close to the 54 percent of voters over 65 who said theyre paying a lot of attention to the 2024 campaign were those between 45 and 64 years old at just 43 percent, with an even steeper drop-off among Gen Z and Millennials.

CAMPAIGN LIT

Debate club. Trumps campaign officially wants to debate Biden earlier and more often, Reese Gorman reports.

Cruz control. Sen. Ted Cruzs super PAC is pocketing the cash from his lucrative podcasting deal in an arrangement that raises campaign finance red flags, Roger Sollenberger and Mini Racker report.

Art of the deal. Trumps much-hyped statement on abortion pissed off the religious rightwhich may have been the point, Reese and Jake Lahut write.

Retirement rage. This years exodus of lawmakers retiring from a broken Congress is spawning a number of nasty fights in the open primaries to anoint their successors, Riley Rogerson reports.

States of play. The Democratic Partys official arm for state legislature races pulled in a record campaign cash haul in the first three months of 2024, but they still need more cash to flip key chambers nationally, Mini reports.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Biden campaign: We don't want the votes of 'Death to America' protesters in Michigan

Biden campaign: We don't want the votes of 'Death to America' protesters in Michigan

EXCLUSIVE: The Biden campaign said it does not want the votes of those caught on video chanting "Death to America" during a recent anti-Israel rally in the 2024 battleground state of Michigan.

A Dearborn crowd was led in chants of "Death to America" and "Death to Israel" by Michigan-based activist Tarek Bazzi during last Fridays International Al-Quds Day rally.

When asked if the president was still courting those agitators, who typically lean Democrat, Biden campaign spokesperson Charles Lutvak replied, "No."

Bazzis remarks were also denounced by the White House.

"The White House condemns these abhorrent and antisemitic remarks in the strongest terms," deputy press secretary Andrew Bates told Fox News Digital. "As President Biden has said, America is the greatest nation on Earth and a beacon to the world."

The question whether Biden wants the votes of those same Michigan protesters in November is a pivotal one, given that the state is likely to play a key role in the rematch between Biden and former President Trump.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

'DEATH TO AMERICA,' 'DEATH TO ISRAEL' CHANTS POUR OUT OF MUSLIM PROTESTERS IN MICHIGAN ON LAST DAY OF RAMADAN

The campaign initially limited its comments to the chants themselves, largely reciting the White House statement.

Biden's campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt told Fox News Digital that the chants had been "condemned" by the campaign. Lutvak reiterated that the "Biden-Harris campaign denounces these disgusting and antisemitic remarks."

"President Biden knows America is the greatest nation in the world. Full stop," Lutvak said.

The controversy surrounding the Dearborn rally comes amid the city's emergence as one of the key centers of resistance to Bidens re-election bid. During last month's Democratic primary in Michigan, more than 100,000 voters marked "uncommitted" on their ballots instead of supporting Biden as the partys nominee.

The voter hostility toward Biden is chiefly a result of the administration's stance on Israel, which is at war with Hamas after the terror group's Oct. 7 attack on the Jewish State. Though the White House has shown increasingly tepid support for the U.S. ally, many of those opposed to the Israeli offensive remain unsatisfied.

For its part, the campaign has worked to ease the tension with voters in Dearborn, a city with the highest per capita Muslim population in the country. Campaign officials met with Arab American and Muslim leaders in the area in January, though that outreach was derided as "dehumanizing" by Democratic Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud.

Dearborn, Michigan, Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, right, led an effort ahead of the state's Democratic primary encouraging voters to choose "uncommitted" delegates as a rebuke to President Biden.

ACTIVIST WHO SPURRED 'DEATH TO AMERICA' CHANTS CALLED FOR ISRAEL'S 'ABSOLUTE ANNIHILATION' IN UNEARTHED VIDEO

"This is not a moment for electoral politics," Hammoud told CNN after the meeting. "Over the course of now, 115 days, Israel murdered more than 26,000 Gazans and displaced over 2 million.

"For us, this is an issue that demands action and not lip service. This is an issue that requires policymakers to come talk about taking a different course of action. This is not a conversation you have with campaign staff."

That meeting was followed by another in February, with the summit this time featuring top Biden administration officials. Again, it did not go well. Democratic State Rep. Abraham Aiyash vowed there would be no further dialogue between the two sides until the administration made "tangible changes" in its policy regarding the conflict in Gaza, according to CBS.

"We want to see a permanent cease-fire," Aiyash told The Associated Press after the meeting. "We want to be able to see restrictions and conditions on any military aid that is sent to Israel. And we want to see the United States take a serious commitment towards rebuilding Gaza."

Local activist Takek Bazzi.

Biden appeared to address some of those concerns last week when he warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that U.S. policy in Gaza could change if the Israeli military did not do more to improve the humanitarian situation of those in the war zone.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters after that call that the U.S. would shift gears "if we don't see the changes that we need to see." White House national security communications adviser John Kirby made clear that the administration expected to see results from Israel within "hours and days" of the call.

Biden stressed to Netanyahu the need for an "immediate cease-fire," something the president argued would be "essential to stabilize and improve the humanitarian situation and protect innocent civilians," a White House readout of the call stated.

However, the conversation was likened to "baby steps" by some of those in Dearborn, ABC reported. Arab American News publisher Osama Siblani told the outlet that the community is looking for "giant steps."

DEARBORN MAYOR SAYS BIDEN CAMP'S TRIP TO MICHIGAN WAS 'DEHUMANIZING,' PURELY FOR 'POLITICAL MEANS'

"All they are trying to do is convince us that there is some kind of movement toward where we want," Siblani said, according to ABC. "But its too slow and its dragging. Its more death and casualties that are happening."

The continued tension with voters in Dearborn threatens to become a problem for Biden's campaign as Michigan's status as a swing state looms large in November. The last two presidential elections have been tight affairs in the state. Trump won Michigan by under half a percentage point in 2016, while Biden won it by just over three points in 2020.

Get the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews and more at our Fox News Digital election hub.





Original article source: Biden campaign: We don't want the votes of 'Death to America' protesters in Michigan
President Biden said he expects Iran to attack Israel "sooner than later" as tensions continue to heighten between the Middle East powers.

Biden was asked Friday how imminent a potential attack on Israel is from Tehran following an Israeli strike on Iran's Damascus consulate in Syria. Iranian officials have publicly threatened to attack Israel for the airstrike.

"I don't want to get into secure information, but my expectation [is] sooner than later," he replied.

ISRAELI PM, MILITARY LEADERS HOLD EMERGENCY MEETING AMID POSSIBLE DIRECT IRANIAN ATTACK

President Biden said he expects Iran to attack Israel and tensions will continue to flare between the two nations.

"We are devoted to the defense of Israel," he added. "We will support Israel. We will defend, help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed."

When asked what his message to Tehran was, Biden simply said: "Don't." When he was asked to elaborate, he walked away.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Meanwhile, sirens blared in northern Israel on Friday as 40 "launches were identified crossing from Lebanese territory, some of which were intercepted," the Israel Defense Forces said.

"Earlier this evening, the IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted two Hezbollah explosive UAVs that had crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory," the IDF said.

US RESTRICTS STAFF IN ISRAEL FROM TRAVELING OUTSIDE CITIES AS IRAN ATTACK THREAT PERSISTS

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran, has sent rockets into Israel on a daily basis since Oct. 7.

The U.S. was moving "additional assets" to the Middle East region "to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for U.S. forces," a U.S. defense official told Fox News on Friday.

"I would just say that we're watching this very, very closely," U.S. National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby told reporters on Friday. "We still deemed the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable, certainly credible, and we're watching it as closely as we can."

"Right now, our focus is on having a conversation with our Israeli counterparts and making sure not just conversations, but making sure that they have what they need and that they're able to defend themselves," Kirby added. "We're also clear it would be imprudent if we didn't take a look at our own posture in the region to make sure that we're properly prepared as well."

Amid fears of military escalation in the Middle East, Stephane Sejourne, the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, has agreed to recall the families of French diplomats based in Tehran.

Sejourne attended a crisis meeting where she also agreed that French citizens were to be advised to refrain from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories in the coming days and the pause of missions by French civil servants in those same countries, a French Embassy spokesperson told Fox News.

Fox News Digital's Peter Aitken contributed to this report.





Original article source: Biden expects Iran to attack Israel 'sooner than later'
US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expects Iran to launch an attack against Israel "sooner than later."

Biden said he did not want to elaborate on what classified intelligence Washington had about Tehran's plans.

"We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel. And Iran will not succeed," he said.

When asked by a journalist what his message to Tehran would be, Biden replied: "Don't."

In view of Iran's possible retaliatory strike against Israel, the US previously announced that it would increase its military presence in the Middle East.

Iran's threats towards Israel have increased following an airstrike on the Iranian embassy compound in Syria on April 1 which killed several military generals.
US President Joe Biden said on Friday he expects Iran to launch an attack against Israel "sooner than later" as Middle East tensions soar.

Biden said he did not want to elaborate on what classified intelligence Washington had about Tehran's plans.

"We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel. And Iran will not succeed," he said.

When asked by a journalist what his message to Tehran would be, Biden replied: "Don't."

In view of Iran's possible imminent retaliatory strike against Israel, the US earlier announced that it was increasing its military presence in the Middle East.

"We are moving additional assets to the region to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces," a US defence official told dpa on Friday, speaking on condition of anonymity.

With the world on high alert, countries including France and India issued travel advisories warning their citizens to avoid Israel and Iran. The US embassy in Israel also issued a security warning for its employees in light of the situation.

In Berlin, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said his government was taking the situation "very seriously."

Iran's threats towards Israel have increased following an airstrike on the Iranian embassy compound in Syria on April 1 which killed several military generals, including Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, who was a senior leader in Iran's elite Quds Force.

The Damascus strike ignited fears that tensions stoked by the war in Gaza, now in its seventh month, could ignite into a regional conflagration.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the airstrike, which arch-enemy Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for, was just like an attack on Iranian territory.

During a prayer ceremony to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday, he said Israel had made a mistake and "must and will be punished."

It would be "imprudent and irresponsible if we weren't also taking a look at our own force posture," US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said in Washington on Friday. It was a matter of protecting US personnel and facilities in the region, he said.

"We still deem the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable, certainly credible, and we're watching it as closely as we can," he told reporters.

Kirby did not comment on reports that an attack was imminent. "I've seen reporting out there and I can't speak to what the intelligence picture tells us about the size of what that attack might look like," he said.

US broadcaster CBS reported on Friday that a retaliatory strike could involve more than a hundred drones and dozens of missiles capable of hitting military targets inside Israel.

The militaries of Israel and the United States were closely cooperating, both sides said.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant called the partnership between Israel and the US unbreakable.

"Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true - they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties," Gallant said on Friday after meeting with the commander of US forces in the region, General Michael Erik Kurilla. "We stand shoulder to shoulder."
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The Biden administration is announcing it is canceling student loan debt for another 206,000 borrowers even as seven more states this week filed a lawsuit to stop the forgiveness plans.

The lawsuit alleges President Joe Biden is overstepping his authority, setting up another legal showdown over student debt forgiveness.

With Fridays announcement, the White House says 4.3 million Americans can now claim some amount of federal student debt relief to the tune of $153 billion.

We are past the point where one in ten people who have student loans have had their loans discharged, said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.

18 Republican-led states are now suing to stop those efforts.

The president is simply shifting the burden to those individuals who paid off their student loans or worked their way through school or chose to take a career that didnt require a 4-year education, said Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.).

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona defends the administrations plan as critics say the administrations plans amount to a bailout for people who took out federal loans they couldnt repay.

Are you telling me these are the people getting bailouts? These are people that are public servants, were fixing a broken system, and were proud of it, said Cardona.

The administrations strategy lets borrowers pay nothing back until they reach a certain income level.

It also eliminates interest growth, lowers payments more than past plans, and cancels unpaid debt in as little as ten years.

We want to help as many people as quickly as possible with as much debt relief, Cardona said.

Critics also accuse the White House of using debt forgiveness to score political points with younger voters, a demographic more likely facing high college costs right now.

Student loan cancellation is not going to do anything to solve the systemic issue of massive student loan debt and rising college prices, said Adam Kissel of the Heritage Foundation.

The Supreme Court struck down the administrations first attempt at student loan forgiveness, but Secretary Cardona believes their current approach is sound.

We are making significant progress, and we laid the foundation, the foundation for this to continue to happen based on the rules that were putting in place, Cardona said.

Its not clear how much of a threat those lawsuits pose to the White Houses forgiveness efforts or how far the suits will make it in the legal system.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) covered legal fees for President Biden during the special counsel probe into his possession of classified documents, while his campaign slammed the Republican National Committee for paying former President Trump's legal bills for his various criminal indictments.

The DNC paid former President Obama lawyer Bob Bauer, who is also married to senior White House adviser Anita Dunn, for "legal services" after it was revealed the attorney had been tapped to handle the president's classified documents scandal.

The DNC paid lawyers representing President Biden, left, as he was under investigation over his possession of classified documents by special counsel Robert Hur, while his campaign criticized former President Trump's use of donor funds to pay his legal bills.

TRUMP RAISES MILLIONS IN ATLANTA NEIGHBORHOOD THAT WANTS TO SECEDE FROM THE HIGH-CRIME CITY

Over $1.05 million was doled out to Bauer and other lawyers representing Biden during special counsel Robert Hur's investigation, with payments being made from July 2023 to February 2024, according to Axios, which first reported the story.

DNC spokesman Alex Floyd told Fox News Digital in a statement, "There is no comparison  the DNC does not spend a single penny of grassroots donors money on legal bills, unlike Donald Trump, who actively solicits legal fees from his supporters and has drawn down every bank account he can get his hands on like a personal piggy bank."

TRUMP GOES OFF-SCRIPT WITH CHICK-FIL-A VISIT WHILE BIDEN FINE DINES WITH CLINTONS

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The DNC paid lawyers representing President Biden, right, as he was under investigation over his possession of classified documents by special counsel Robert Hur.

News of the DNC's payments to Biden's lawyers in the Hur investigation comes as the president's campaign has hit Trump for using donor money to pay off his legal debts.

HARRIS TO GIVE PREDICTION OF WHAT A SECOND TRUMP TERM LOOKS LIKE DURING ARIZONA CAMPAIGN STOP

Former President Trump faces several criminal indictments.

Biden's campaign recently slammed Trump over a "lack of funding," questioning if it is good strategy to reach out to "donors to help cover your own personal debts instead of funding your campaign."

President Biden was criticized for storing classified documents in his garage and Corvette.

Last week, Biden's campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, said Biden's fundraising was in "stark contrast to Trumps cash-strapped operation that is funneling the limited and billionaire-reliant funds it has to pay off his various legal fees."

Fox News Digital did not immediately receive comments from the Biden campaign or the White House Counsel's office.

"Joe Biden and the Democrats' entire campaign against President Trump is based upon lies and hypocrisy  they have repeatedly stated they dont spend money on Bidens legal bills, while they attack President Trump for having to defend himself from Bidens witch hunts," the Trump campaign said in a statement. "Come to find out, the DNC paid millions to cover Bidens legal bills to a law firm run by the husband of top White House staffer Anita Dunn. Apparently, 10% for the big guy from Hunter wasnt enough for Crooked Joe to foot his own bill."

As the DNC's Floyd noted, Trump's various committees have spent tens of millions on covering legal bills for the former president, and they have further solicited donations by citing the criminal cases he is involved in. Conversely, Biden's campaign has not used the legal matter involving the president to prompt supporters to donate.

Get the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews and more at our Fox News Digital election hub.





Original article source: Biden had similar legal aid arrangement he slammed Trump over
On Friday, President Joe Bidens administration announced its latest student debt relief effort, authorizing $7.4 billion in student loan debt forgiveness for 277,000 borrowers.

This latest round of debt forgiveness takes place under Bidens Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program, which ties monthly student loan payments and debt forgiveness to income and family size.

The president had initially floated forgiving $10,000 in student loan debt for most federal borrowers but was forced to pivot to more indirect action after backlash from Republicans, who continue to attempt to undermine the administrations efforts. The SAVE program is the Biden administrations answer to a 2023 Supreme Court decision that killed its first attempt to forgive loans  either partially or completely  for 43 million Americans.

Todays announcement brings the total loan forgiveness approved by the Biden-Harris Administration to $153 billion for nearly 4.3 million Americans, the Department of Education wrote in a statement Friday.

The Biden-Harris Administration is not letting up its efforts to give hardworking Americans some breathing room, said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. As long as there are people with overwhelming student loan debt competing with basic needs such as food and health care, we will remain relentless in our pursuit to bring relief to millions across the country.

So if you have a pesky student loan payment burning a monthly hole in your bank account, heres everything you know about Fridays debt forgiveness announcement.

Who gets what?

The Department of Education said in its Friday announcement that this round of loan forgiveness is broken down into three categories.

$3.6 billion for nearly 206,800 borrowers through SAVE. $3.5 billion for 65,800 borrowers through administrative adjustments to Income-Driven Repayment plans. $300 million for 4,600 borrowers through fixes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

If Im already in one of these programs, how do I know if my debt has been affected?

Check your inbox! The Biden administration said it would begin notifying those enrolled in the plan whose debt has been forgiven or reduced via email on Friday. The process may take a few weeks to get to you, so dont be disappointed if you havent gotten anything yet.

Im not enrolled in any of these. What do I do?

If youre not enrolled  but think you may qualify  the good news is applications are still open for all three. The Biden administration has been announcing new waves of loan forgiveness on a semi-regular basis, so get yourself signed up as soon as you can if you want to avoid missing out on any more announcements. Well explain the basics of each program next.

Story continues

Who qualifies for SAVE?

Borrowers enrolled in SAVE can receive relief after at least 10 years of payments if they originally borrowed $12,000 or less for college, and ever additional $1,000 in borrowing adds 12 more months until forgiveness.

If youre enrolled in SAVE, and have been paying off loans for 20 or 25 years (depending on whether you have loans for graduate school) you may qualify for automatic forgiveness.

One important note: The requirements are based on your original loan amount, not your existing balance.

You can apply for the program here.

Whats the deal with income-driven repayment?

This is part of a push by the Biden administration to address the misuse of forbearance by loan servicers. While it may not outright clear a loan, it can reduce the amount owed and make payments more manageable by basing them on your income and the size of your household.

Learn more and apply here.

What is Public Service Loan Forgiveness?

Individuals whose first job post-graduation was in government, or at a qualifying not-for-profit organization, may be eligible for student loan forgiveness after making the equivalent of 120 qualifying monthly payments to a repayment plan accepted by the program.

Learn more and check if you qualify here.

Ive heard student loan forgiveness may not be legal. Is that true?

Two coalitions of Republican states have filed lawsuits challenging the legality of the SAVE program.

Yet again, the President is unilaterally trying to impose an extraordinarily expensive and controversial policy that he could not get through Congress, says one lawsuit filed Tuesday by attorneys general in Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, and Oklahoma. The suit argues that Biden is overstepping his constitutional authority.

The Department of Education has countered that Congress gave the U.S. Department of Education the authority to define the terms of income-driven repayment plans in 1993, and the SAVE plan is the fourth time the Department has used that authority.

Whats next in Bidens plan?

On Monday, the Biden administration unveiled a new set of plans for its student loan forgiveness platform. These include:

Waiving accrued and capitalized interest for millions of borrowers who now owe more than they originally borrowed. Automatically discharging debt for borrowers otherwise eligible for loan forgiveness under SAVE  and other programs  who are not yet enrolled. Eliminating student debt for borrowers who entered repayment 20 or more years ago. Helping borrowers who enrolled in low-financial-value programs or institutions at colleges that lost their eligibility to participate in the federal student aid program or were denied recertification because they cheated or took advantage of students. This would also help students whose post-college job prospects had earnings no better than what someone with a high school diploma earns. Assisting borrowers who experience hardship in paying back their loans.

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U.S. President Joe Biden with his Philippine counterpart Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (left) and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (right) at their meeting at the White House.

China was not present, but it was the main protagonist. The first trilateral meeting between the leaders of the United States, Japan and the Philippines on Thursday at the White House sought to provide a show of unity in the face of Chinas increasingly intense pressure on Manila in the South China Sea, where the Asian giant claims sovereignty over almost all of the area and maintains a bitter territorial dispute with the archipelago. Washington has described Beijings tactics as intimidation.

The Philippine and Chinese vessels have engaged in increasingly frequent and hostile skirmishes in an area of the South China Sea that the United States calls the Second Thomas Atoll, and which the Philippines know as the Ayungin Shoal. There, Manila maintains a military garrison in an old, rusty warship  which it intentionally ran aground in the reef  to reinforce its territorial claims in the reef. Chinese ships patrol the area and try to stop the vessels that come to supply it with water cannons and lasers.

The most serious incident in recent weeks took place at the end of March, when Chinese ships fired a water cannon at a Philippine logistics ship that was trying to bring supplies to the military personnel stationed in the shoal, which is located within 200 miles of the Philippines exclusive economic zone. That episode sparked loud protests in Manila, which were backed by Washington. For the United States, Beijings tactics amount to coercion and violate international law in waters that are considered one of the most volatile areas on the planet. U.S. President Joe Biden addressed the issue during his telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 2.

At the start of the trilateral meeting on Thursday, Biden warned that any attack against Philippine forces in the South China Sea would be grounds to apply the mutual defense treaty between Washington and Manila, which was signed in 1951. He said that U.S. forces would come to support its ally.

I want to be clear, the United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. Theyre ironclad. Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty, said Biden.

The president met separately with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shortly before the trilateral meeting. The previous day, he received Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who was on a semi-official visit to the White House. The three countries share deep distrust over Chinas growing assertiveness in the Asia Pacific and the Asian giants territorial claims, which an international court deemed baseless in 2016.

The Philippines and China are in dispute over the South China Sea, while Japan and China have conflicting claims in the East China Sea over islands Japan knows as Senkaku and China identifies as Diaoyu. Manila  which during Rodrigo Dutertes mandate tried to get closer to Beijing  has resolutely aligned itself with Washington since Marcos election. The Philippine president is completing his second official visit to Washington in just over a year.

Tokyo, meanwhile, is investing rapidly in building up its defense in a bid to transform its army into the third most powerful in the world. In their bilateral meeting on Wednesday, Kishida and Biden announced the biggest upgrade to the Japan-U.S. security alliance in more than 60 years. The plan includes greater coordination between their commands and the joint development of cutting-edge military technologies.

The United States, Japan, and the Philippines are three closely-aligned maritime democracies with increasingly convergent strategic objectives and interests, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday.

At the end of the meeting, the leaders said they will announce a Coast Guard patrol in the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S. Coast Guard will also admit members of the Philippine and Japanese corps on these patrols for training, according to senior U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. Biden also announced the establishment of a new economic corridor in the Philippines for infrastructure development and agricultural projects, among other investments.

This weeks bilateral and trilateral meetings are part of the Biden administrations efforts to develop a network of economic and security alliances in the Indo-Pacific to respond to China.

Todays summit is an opportunity to define the future that we want, and how we intend to achieve it together, Marcos told the press on Thursday. This meeting can be just a beginning. Facing the complex challenges of our time requires concerted efforts on everyones part, a dedication to a common purpose and an unwavering commitment to the rules-based international order.

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President Biden will kick off a tour across Pennsylvania with a major address in his hometown of Scranton on Tuesday, the day after tax day.

The tour of Pennsylvania, a critical swing state won by Biden in 2020, will also include stops in the Pittsburgh area and Philadelphia. Biden is set to be in the Keystone State on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Do you think the tax code should work for rich people or for the middle class? Biden will ask voters during his address Tuesday in Scranton, according to the campaign.

Biden is set to outline the difference between his tax agenda, which he argues is structured to build the middle class from the bottom up and middle out, to former President Trumps policies, which he argues only help the wealthy.

The Biden campaign also plans events in other battleground states next week, where other officials and surrogates will compare the presidents economic agenda with Trumps.

Biden won Pennsylvania in 2020 with 50 percent of the vote, flipping it after Trump won in 2016. A Franklin & Marshall College poll earlier this week found Biden leading Trump by 10 points in the state, garnering support from 48 percent of voters surveyed, compared to Trumps 38 percent.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Moments after Haiti made a new transitional presidential council official on Friday, the Biden administration ordered the release of $60 million in assistance for the beleaguered country, most of which will go towards equipment and training for a multinational police force to be headed by Kenya to help the Haitian police force battle gangs.

The order by President Joe Biden came shortly after a new nine-member transitional presidential council became official with the publication of an executive order in Port-au-Prince by Prime Minister Ariel Henrys government, establishing the new governing framework.

State Department Matthew Miller, in welcoming the formation of the new transitional presidential council and the United States commitment to its mission, acknowledged late Thursday that the United States is surging support for the Haitian security forces to bolster their capabilities as they fight to defend their country.

The Biden administration, which supports the deployment of Kenyan police officers to assist Haitian police combat ruthless armed gangs sowing chaos in the country, has faced congressional roadblocks despite pledging $300 million towards the mission. To get around some of the resistance, Biden used a little known executive executive power known as Presidential Drawdown Authority. The authority was established under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, and Biden has been using it to get around congressional resistance to funding weapons for Ukraine.

The equipment, which can come from the stockpiles of any U.S. government agency, and the training from the Defense Department, will help get the Multinational Security Support mission off the ground. The mission has been on hold since Henry, under pressure from Washington, announced his resignation on March 11. Kenya, which is supposed to deploy 1,000 of its police officers to serve as the backbone of the force, has said that it would not deploy its officers to Haiti unless the funding was in place.

Both the United States and the United Nations, which established a trust fund for Haiti, have struggled to raise the money. A U.N. trust fund only has $10.8 million despite pledges of assistance from several nations. Top Republicans in the House and Senate have expressed skepticism about the mission and refused to approve $40 million of the $100 million the State Department has pledged. The Pentagon, which is supposed to be building a base in Haiti for the mission, has separately pledged $200 million.

Last month, Biden tapped the presidential authority power to get $10 million in weapons and ammunition into the hands of the Haiti National Police. Under that authorization, the Armed Forces of Haiti, in a first, will receive bulletproof vests from the administration.
President Joe Biden plans to expand two national monuments in California  one, a mountainous wilderness area east of Los Angeles, and another with tree-covered rolling hillsides north of Napa  in the coming weeks, two sources familiar with the matter told CNN.

Biden will expand the perimeters of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by about 110,000 acres and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument by about 13,000 acres, one source told CNN. Both monuments were first designated by former President Barack Obama.

This is huge, to put it as succinctly and as clearly as I can, Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla of California, a longtime advocate for expanding both monuments, told CNN.

The exact timing of an expansion declaration is unclear, but it is likely in the coming weeks  and could coincide with Earth Day, the sources said.

A White House spokesperson declined to comment. The Washington Post first reported the monument expansions.

National monuments are areas of historic, cultural or natural significance that are designated for federal protection. The redrawn boundaries for the California monuments will serve several purposes, including protecting sacred sites for Native American tribes, conserving land and expanding public access to the outdoors.

The San Gabriel Mountains are among the most pristine and beautiful public lands in the country, with more visitors annually than Yellowstone, and they are right next to one of the nations densest and most park-deprived population centers, Rep. Judy Chu, a Democrat from California, said in a statement. Id be absolutely elated for President Biden to use his executive authorities to finalize this, recognize the significance of all these lands, and unlock additional federal supports and resources.

During the first three years of his term, Biden has conserved more than 24 million acres of public lands, most recently designating a new national monument near the Grand Canyon  the Baaj Nwaavjo Itah Kukveni National Monument. Biden has also designated new monuments in Nevada and Colorado, and restored protections for national monuments in Utah that were restricted by former President Donald Trump.

Padilla said he applauded the Biden administration for utilizing every tool in the toolbox, working with Congress when he can and using his executive authority when he needs to.

White House senior adviser for international climate policy John Podesta nodded to future conservation announcements from the Biden administration at a Thursday event at the Washington Post.

I worked for President Clinton, for President Obama. They both had tremendous conservation records, Podesta said. President Biden is just surpassing that in terms of what hes able to do in the first term. And I think weve got more to come, including better use and better protection of public lands.

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By Andrea Shalal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday said he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later" and warned Tehran not to proceed.

Asked by reporters about his message to Iran, Biden said simply, "Don't," and he underscored Washington's commitment to defend Israel.

"We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he said.

Israel braced on Friday for an attack by Iran or its proxies as warnings grew of retaliation for an attack on Iran's embassy compound last week in Damascus that killed a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' overseas Quds Force and six other officers.

Israel did not claim responsibility for the airstrike on April 1. But Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said Israel "must be punished and shall be" for an operation he said was equivalent to an attack on Iranian soil.

Biden said he would not divulge secure information, but said his expectation was that an attack by Iran could come "sooner, rather than later." He spoke to reporters at the White House after a virtual speech to a civil rights conference.

The U.S. rushed warships into position to protect Israel and American forces in the region, hoping to head off a direct attack from Iran on Israel that could come as soon as Friday or Saturday, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

The moves by the U.S. that are part of an effort to avoid a wider conflict in the Middle East came after a warning from a person familiar with the matter about the timing and location of the potential Iranian attack, the newspaper said.

However, a person briefed by the Iranian leadership said that while plans to attack are being discussed, no final decision has been made, the Journal said.

Countries including India, France, Poland and Russia have warned their citizens against travel to the region, already on edge over the war in Gaza, now in its seventh month. Germany on Friday called on its citizens to leave Iran.

Earlier, White House spokesperson John Kirby said the reportedly imminent attack by Iran on Israel was a real and viable threat, but gave no details about any possible timing.

Kirby said the United States was looking at its own force posture in the region in light of Tehran's threat and was watching the situation very closely.

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Writing by Andrea Shalal and Eric Beech; Additional reporting by Disha Mishra; Editing by Jasper Ward, Cynthia Osterman and Sonali Paul)
Recorded earlier

President Biden will deliver a live, keynote virtual address from the White House to the National Action Networks (NAN) 2024 Convention in New York City on Friday afternoon.

Founded by the Rev. Al Sharpton, NAN works on racial justice and civil rights issues, dedicated to following the vision of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Polling has suggested a decline in support for Biden among Black voters overall. Endorsement by leaders within Black and other communities of color could make a crucial difference in Bidens reelection bid.

The president is scheduled to speak at 2:45 p.m. EDT.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Biden administration is racing to finalize regulations to curb planet-heating emissions from lightbulbs, automobiles and trucks before a key deadline, after which any new rules could be undone by Donald Trump if he retakes the White House.

With just over six months before the election, at least one major Biden proposal appears to be stalled: an update to the federal housing rules that agency experts estimate would save homeowners nearly three times more money on energy bills than it would add to construction costs, spread out over a 30-year mortgage.

Changing those housing rules would impact about 160,000 new houses and condos built each year in some of the nations fastest-growing  and most expensive  housing markets. The Biden administration is now looking to the rules as a model for reforming other federal housing programs, which would supercharge the White Houses efforts to curb both emissions and rising utility bills.

But the final rule is inching through the bureaucratic process at an unusually slow rate, taking weeks or months to advance to technical next steps that regulations can typically reach in a matter of days. Its unclear whats causing the delay. And due to a legal quirk, if President Joe Biden loses reelection, Trump could have final say over any rule enacted after May or June.

Critics of the greener housing rules say the changes would raise the price of new homes when half of Americans already say they cant find affordable housing, home ownership rates are stagnating and the bulk of inflation stems from the climbing cost of shelter. Republicans tried to block the rule from taking effect last year.

Requiring new homes to meet stricter energy efficiency standards to qualify for federally-insured loans would add a combined $560 million in building costs, based on a single-year average of construction prices between 2019 and 2021, the Department of Housing and Urban Development found in its preliminary determination last year.

But over the same period a buyer would pay off a house, the thicker insulation and modern windows mandated under the latest model building codes would save the country as much $1.5 billion in energy costs. Some markets could see new homes that save 24% more energy than models built to the previous years standards. The 90-page national blueprint for decarbonizing the building sector the Energy Department published this month calls HUD and other federal lending agencies to swiftly adopt the latest codes.

A spokesperson for HUD declined to comment on whats causing the delay.

HUD is in the process of finalizing the determination, recognizing the interest in doing so as promptly as possible, the spokesperson told HuffPost in an emailed statement Friday.

The U.S. has no official nationwide building code. Instead, states can choose to adopt model standards written and regularly updated by private code-writing organizations such as the International Code Council, a nonprofit that convenes local governments, utilities and construction industry professionals. Compared to previous rounds of codes, the ICCs 2021 homebuilding guidelines delivered double-digit improvements on the energy efficiency of new homes.

A map updated on March 31, 2024 from the Energy Department's energycodes.gov information website shows which states are in compliance with the latest building codes. Energy Department

Yet few states have voluntarily taken up those new, greener benchmarks.

Nearly half the country  most of the Southeast, Midwest and Mountain West  uses the ICCs energy standards from at least 15 years ago. Eight states  Alaska, Colorado, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming  have no statewide building codes at all, instead allowing counties and towns to decide for themselves how to impose standards on builderss. Just six states  California, Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, Vermont, and Washington  have adopted the standards in line with the latest ICC housing codes, according to Energy Department data updated a week ago.

That number could soon grow. Congress granted Biden $1 billion to give out to states to help them adopt newer and stricter codes. And the U.S. Balkanized housing code system is one reason why stricter federal standards for housing loans are critical for cutting back on emissions. Even though the U.S. cant force states or cities to adopt the latest ICC code, home loans give the federal government another lever to nudge states toward cleaner buildings.

This has been long overdue, said Lowell Ungar, the director of federal policy at the watchdog American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Each month of delay means thousands more homes with poor insulation, leaving residents with high energy bills for decades. Getting this done will lower families overall housing costs.

The National Association of Home Builders, the largest trade group representing construction companies and real estate developers, told HuffPost that mandating the use of the 2021 building codes is certainly not the answer.

This move will significantly limit access to federally-backed financing options for many first-time home buyers, rural home buyers, other home buyers with limited financial resources, and also developers of affordable apartments, the NAHB warned. In short, this blatant federal overreach is a counterproductive, short-sighted strategy that will exacerbate the nations housing affordability crisis and hurt the nations most vulnerable house hunters and renters.

The American Gas Association, which successfully struck key climate provisions from the energy codes due out in 2024, said federal housing regulators should reject the 2021 codes. In an emailed statement, the gas-utility lobby criticized an Energy Department analysis showing that the most recent codes cut back on wasted energy, citing an industry study.

HUD and USDA should not accept the revised code or standard provisions that negatively affect the availability or affordability of new construction of single and multifamily housing, the AGA told HuffPost.

Federal law requires regulatory agencies to routinely ramp up the criteria for housing loans as more efficient codes come out. Yet the only time the codes for federal housing were updated was in 2015, when the Obama administration required that new homes meet the ICCs 2009 codes. The Trump administration briefly gutted the guidelines for adopting new codes, a move Biden promptly reversed.

By the time Biden took office, building codes had quietly become a new battleground in the fight to transition to cleaner energy.

One benefit of greener homes is that they leave homeowners less vulnerable to energy price swings from war or extreme weather disrupting supplies.

The most predictable and common cause of people leaving their homes is the energy burden and cost that can go up in such an unpredictable manner based on geopolitics or weather, said Amy Boyce, senior director of buildings and energy at the Institute for Market Transformation, a think tank focused on decarbonizing buildings.

Utility debt swelled to a record of over $20 billion last year as ratepayers struggled to catch up on electricity and heating bills in arrears. One survey found nearly one-third of Americans in October said they had cut back on or skipped necessary expenses in the past year to cover energy bills. Now states across the country are allowing utilities to jack up rates to help pay for modernizing the grid.

Its so dangerous to say, OK, were worried about this one aspect of cost, but were just going to leave that much more unpredictable aspect for people to figure out later on their own, Boyce said.

In the wake of the United Nations dire 2018 climate science report, cities and towns across the U.S. enacted laws mandating emissions cuts. But they could only do so much: Local governments have little control over the power plants and automobiles that produce the bulk of carbon pollution. They do, however, control what kinds of houses, offices and storefronts go up.

The ICC, which was formed in the 1990s as the U.S. sought to consolidate disparate code-writing organizations, provided an opportunity for local leaders to influence how houses are built in the whole country. While industry representatives could weigh in on updates to the ICCs codebook, only officials from elected governments could vote on the final product.

In this aerial view, completed and under construction new homes at a site in Trappe, Maryland, on October 28, 2022. JIM WATSON via Getty Images

For years, the ICC codes became only barely more energy-efficient with each update. But the ICC codes governments voted to enact in 2021 saw gains of as much as 14%.

Environmentalists, architects and green builders hailed the new codes. Industry groups balked. Trade associations representing gas utilities lobbied the ICC to strip key climate-friendly provisions, like rules that would require new homes to include the circuitry for electric appliances, car chargers and solar panels.

After the backlash, the ICC eliminated governments right to vote on codes altogether, moving instead to a consensus committee system that granted builders and fossil fuel companies more influence over the process. The Biden administration warned that those changes harmed the ICC code-writing processs democratic legitimacy.

Promising to enshrine the wins of the latest code, Kevin Bush, HUDs deputy assistant secretary for grant programs, told advocates in a July 2021 letter that the agency expected to take the first major step toward enshrining the newest codes into regulations later this year.

HUD did not submit its draft to the White Houses Office of Management and Budget until August 2022. It took OMB eight months to complete its review of the determination  a process that appeared to have ended only hours after HuffPost contacted the agency about the stalled regulation in March 2023.

The proposal to update the housing loan standards then went to the White Houses Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. The OIRA completed its review and sent the regulation back to HUD last month.

At other agencies, such as the Energy Department, finalized regulations typically appear on the Federal Register  the crucial last step before a regulation goes into force  within days of returning to the regulators from OIRA review.

After nearly four weeks, HUD has yet to publish its final rule on the Federal Register.

Workers attach siding to a house at a new home construction site in Trappe, Maryland, on October 28, 2022. JIM WATSON via Getty Images

Theres no obvious reason for the rule to be stalled. While the final draft is not out, the language on the OIRAs website indicated that the agency returned the proposal to HUD without any major changes. Some advocates privately speculated that HUD could be facing internal upheaval since HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge stepped down and retired last month, leaving her temporary replacement in charge.

Unlike mortgages backed by HUD or the Agriculture Department, loans issued under the Federal Housing Finance Agency dont require homes to follow any specific energy codes, nor do the mortgages purchased by the federally related Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac lenders. An activist campaign launched in November is calling for those agencies to implement similar standards to those HUD uses. The administration told E&E News it would consider the move in December.

If HUD doesnt move forward, that [effort] faces an almost insurmountable hurdle, Boyce said.

The clock is ticking. Under a little-known statute called the Congressional Review Act, lawmakers can undo federal rules up to 60 days after theyre put in place. House Republicans have already repeatedly held votes against the Biden administrations proposed regulations. But these have so far amounted to nothing but symbolism, since Democrats still control the Senate, and Biden would almost certainly veto any legislation passed in protest of his climate agenda.

Still, since the 60 working days covered by the law arent necessarily consecutive, the period always stretches out over more than two months and could eclipse the end of Bidens first term in office. If Trump wins the presidency and Republicans win the Senate and keep the House, Biden-era climate rules would likely be rolled back.

Legal experts disagree on when the CRA deadline will actually land. Based on the House of Representatives calendar, the law firm Hunton Andrews Kurth estimated it will be on May 22, while based on the Senate calendar, the deadline would be June 7, according to the law firm Venable.

The ICC is due out with its 2024 codes in the next few weeks. It had looked poised to put out landmark climate provisions designed to make going electric easier and cheaper for homeowners. Up to 90% of experts involved in writing the code supported the green measures. But gas companies once again appealed. At the last minute, the ICCs board intervened last month, and granted all the fossil fuel firms requests.

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Democrats met with pro-Palestinian protesters have had an array of responses to the interruptions  from yelling back to attempting to connect them to Russia.

But President Biden, who has faced a host of cease-fire supporters across the country, has been markedly more sympathetic. Even though they wholly disagree with his Israel policy, he often sides with the protesters sentiments, urging event security to let them be before being escorted away.

Thats in sharp contrast to many other Democrats who have sometimes lost their patience with the confrontations.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) accused some protesters who confronted her at a theater of lying about her stance. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif), who has had protesters outside her San Francisco home, once accused them on television of puppeting a message by Russian President Vladimir Putin and then called for the FBI to investigate.

It marks another example of the divide among the Democratic Party about how to deal with addressing the Israel-Hamas war as it drags into its seventh month.

Some Democrats also say the presidents reaction is authentically him.

Campaigning is, in many ways, stagecraft and theater  and the toughest kind of theater is improv. Rather than running for the exits, the ability of elected leaders and candidates to be nimble and respond in real-time to protesters, as long as they dont allow those disruptions to hijack entire events, almost always demonstrates authenticity, said John LaBombard, former communications director to Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.).

LaBombard, a senior vice president at ROKK Solutions, added, And for President Biden in particular, it helps neutralize some of the lingering questions about his age.

Others say its part of a balancing act.

President Biden has been mirroring the frustration felt by both sides. He has deep empathy for the humanitarian crisis, yet also understands Israels desire for security, said former Rep. Chris Carney (D-Pa.), a Biden ally.

The president has been under increasing pressure to back a permanent cease-fire in Gaza and has been followed around by protesters on nearly every trip hes taken since the war began in October, whether on the streets or inside of a venue. And he often has had something to say back.

Thats all right, let them go. Theres a lot of people who are very, very  there are too many innocent victims, Israeli and Palestinian, Biden said when responding to protesters that interrupted a major New York City fundraiser last month.

The contrast in Democratic reactions was reflected in that moment by former President Obama, who, sitting next to Biden, replied, No, no, listen. You cant just talk and not listen.  Thats what the other side does.

During another recent campaign event in Raleigh, N.C., where he was delivering a speech about health care, Biden was interrupted with yells of What about the health care in Gaza?

Everybody deserves health care, he replied, stopping to listen to what the demonstrators were yelling. Be patient with them. They have a point. We need to get a lot more care into Gaza.

When Ocasio-Cortez, however, was confronted with protesters who were following and filming her at a theater in New York in March, they accused her at the time of not calling the war a genocide.

Ocasio-Cortez responded, I need you to understand that this is not OK. When the protester shot back, not OK that theres a genocide happening and youre not actively against it, she said they were lying.

The New York Democrat, who has called for a cease-fire in Gaza, then accused the protesters of planning to edit the video to make it look like she said something she did not, adding Its fed up, man. Youre not helping your people.

Pelosi for her part told CNN in January that the protesters were mimicking a message by Putin and then called for the FBI to investigate some of them.

For them to call for a cease-fire is Mr. Putins message. Mr. Putins message. Make no mistake: This is directly connected to what he would like to see. Same thing with Ukraine. Its about Putins message, Pelosi said in January.

When it came to Rep. Adam Schiffs (D-Calif.) victory speech after the California Senate primary in March, he was interrupted by protesters and ended up rushing through his remarks. His response was that Americans are lucky to live in a democracy where we all have the right to protest.

One of the first times protesters made it inside a venue where Biden was holding an event was in Virginia in January. At that time he replied, They feel deeply. When he was met with protesters in a Charleston, S.C., church also in January, he replied, I understand their passion.

The president will sometimes pause his remarks and let the interruptions continue, which can include personal chants toward him such as, Genocide Joe has got to go.

A Biden campaign spokesman said the strategy is in stark contrast with the way former President Trump, Bidens likely political opponent for the White House in November, has notoriously treated his own protesters on the campaign trail.

President Biden treats protestors with respect and dignity because he believes making your voice heard and participating in our democracy is fundamental to who we are as Americans, Seth Schuster, a Biden campaign spokesman said. That stands in stark contrast with Donald Trump who mocks, demeans, and threatens violence toward Americans whenever they exercise their First Amendment right to disagree with him.

To be sure, Trump handles protesters much differently than Biden. When the former president was interrupted by climate protesters during a rally in Iowa in January, Trump replied, go home to mommy. He added that protests during rallies always adds excitement.

In previous campaigns, Trump has yelled get out of here to protesters and called them nasty people. He also frequently targets the press covering him, calling them enemy of the people.

The White Houses stance when asked about protesters following Biden across the country has been that people have the right to peacefully express themselves. Top officials have held a handful of meetings with Arab and Muslim American community leaders in places such as Michigan and Illinois and invited some leaders to the White House for a recent meeting around Ramadan, during which a Palestinian American doctor walked out on the president.

Biden invited critics of his Israel policy into his house to meet with him and deliver criticism to his face. Hes is working hard to end the fighting and get more aid into Gaza. And he isnt afraid of criticism or a tough conversation about his efforts, one Biden ally told The Hill.

Biden has in the past been defensive about being confronted on a host of other issues, like in November 2022 when he said that protesters gathering outside of an Illinois venue where he was speaking were idiots for calling Democrats socialists.

He hasnt, though, reacted negatively over demonstrations about Gaza as pressure continues to mount from Democrats to start considering conditions on military aid in an effort to put parameters on Israels tactics.

Some who have worked at the Biden White House say its his empathy that leads to such a response to the pro-Palestinian protesters in recent months.

And, his decades of experience help him to know when and how to react.

President Biden understands that his words matter, and what he says or doesnt say could trigger an even larger regional war. Hes trying to prevent the flashpoint of Oct. 7 from igniting the Middle East, said Carney, a senior policy adviser at Nossaman LLP.

Politicians can be relied upon to freely express their opinions. Leaders are more disciplined, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Biden surrogate: Cowardly Trump wont go to Ukraine because Putin doesnt want him to

President Biden reelection campaign surrogate Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) bashed former President Trump on Friday for the implication that it wouldnt be appropriate to go to Ukraine, arguing that Russian President Vladimir Putin simply doesnt want him to.

In a statement first obtained by The Hill, Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot and Russian policy officer for the commander-in-chief of the Navy in Europe, argued Trump is too cowardly to visit the war-torn country.

Trump wont go to Ukraine because, quite simply, Vladimir Putin doesnt want him to. Donald Trump doesnt care whats best for U.S. national security or democracy  he only cares whats best for Donald Trump, she said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Trump this week to visit the country in an interview with Axel Springer media outlets.

Trumps campaign in a statement to Reuters said the former president has said publicly it wouldnt be appropriate for him to go to Ukraine right now since hes not Commander in Chief.

His cowardice in the face of protecting democracy or standing up to dictators is well known, so its unsurprising that, unlike Joe Biden, hes too cowardly to go into a war zone, Sherrill added. Trumps dangerous and chaotic behavior, affection for dictators over our allies, and well-established disrespect for democracy makes Americans less safe.

While running for the Republican nomination against Trump, former Vice President Mike Pence and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie both traveled to Ukraine. Biden traveled to Ukraine for a surprise visit in February 2023.

Trump sparked international concern earlier this year after he said he would encourage Russia to attack NATO countries delinquent in their defense payments, and he has been critical of the support and funding that the U.S. has given to Ukraines war effort.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Faced with roadblocks in getting a Kenya-led police mission deployed to help Haitis beleaguered security forces root out vicious armed groups, President Joe Biden is borrowing a page out of his response to another global conflict to come to Haitis aid.

Just as he has tapped U.S. weapons stockpiles to get around congressional blocks on security assistance to Ukraine and quickly get arms to troops fighting Russia, Biden is doing the same for Haiti in what some observers and former Haitian police chiefs hope is a signal of the United States changing security partnership with the volatile Caribbean country.

It would be a welcome shift to allow the [police] and army to get what they need to maintain order, while restricting the flow to the gangs, said Keith Mines, director of Latin American programs at the United States Institute for Peace in Washington. But all needs to be part of a larger security package, including large-scale training and equipping and advising of the security forces and a strategy for diversion of gang members to less destructive activities, while not allowing them a role in governing.

For years, the U.S. government had refused to arm Haitis security forces, limiting its assistance to providing police vehicles and other non-lethal equipment even as police officers struggled to fend off gangs wielding high-caliber, American-made assault rifles.

A longstanding rule invoked by multiple U.S. administrations left the U.S-backed Haiti National police outgunned and outmatched as ruthless gangs tightened their grip on the country, growing so powerful that theyve been overtaking police stations and once peaceful neighborhoods, attacking prisons and looting and burning schools and hospitals in the latest siege on the capital of Port-au-Prince.

With the violence showing no signs of abating, the deployment of a Kenya-led international force still uncertain and the use of U.S. troops off the table, Biden is using a little-known executive authority to help Haiti, a country not at war with another nation but where an internal conflict is threatening to destroy whats left of a crumbling government.

Using Presidential Drawdown Authority, Biden authorized Secretary of State Antony Blinken to provide up to $10 million worth of weapons, ammunition, bullet-proof vests and helmets from any agency of the United States Government and military education and training from the Defense Department to assist Haiti. Most of the equipment will go to the Haiti National Police, whose specialized forces have been engaged in almost daily gun battles with a newly formed alliance of armed groups seeking to overtake the National Palace, the international airport and seaport and critical government infrastructure.

A State Department official acknowledged that some help may also go to the Armed Forces of Haiti, known as the FadH, for the first time since it was disbanded.

Some non-lethal assistance could be offered to the FAdH through this planned drawdown, if directed following Congressional notification, one official said about the army, which has been helping the police repel attacks against the airport. Our general policy toward the FadH has not changed, but we do recognize their support of the [police] in combating gang violence.

Another State Department official said the planned assistance would support U.S. anti-crime and counter-narcotics objectives and foreign policy goals in Haiti and demonstrate our commitment to providing urgently needed assistance for Haitian security forces.

The U.S., which once pushed for disbanding the army  which has had a history of participating in violent coups  does not recognize the Armed Forces of Haiti and remains statutorily prohibited from providing arms to its soldiers. However, while the State Department faces restrictions on its funding, the Defense Department doesnt face the same constraints.

Florida Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, during a Thursday hearing on countering transnational criminal networks and corruption in the region, said he hopes more can be done to help the Haitian army despite the prohibition on sending them weapons and equipment.

I understand the history armies have played out in the history of Haiti. But they have been a quite capable force over the last few weeks, he said. Without them, I dont know if the police could have withstood some of the challenges that they have faced. I hope well reconsider that [weapons prohibition], because there are countries that I believe are willing to step forward and provide them some of the equipment they need, but are scared off by the U.S. prohibition.

I want to be supportive

Concerns about a lack of clear strategy with the Kenya-led mission have led to top Republicans on the House and Senate foreign affairs committees blocking $40 million in security assistance the Biden administration is seeking. The money is part of a $100 million pledge the State Department has made to help get the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission off the ground. Separately, the Defense Department has pledged $200 million.

The ongoing GOP holds and the deteriorating situation in Haiti were raised Wednesday during a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing with U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power. Power, who was U.S. ambassador to the United Nations during the Obama administration years and pushed for the withdrawal of the last U.N. peacekeeping mission to Haiti, admitted that the scale of violence unfolding over the last month in Port-au-Prince has been unprecedented.

The administration, she said, needs for the Kenya-led force to be able to deploy.

That will then make it easier to resume training of the Haitian national police, who have really been courageous in trying to stand up to the gangs in these recent weeks of deterioration, Power told committee members. I really sincerely hope that the holds will be lifted on the support that were trying to provide the Kenyans in so that they can get the pre-deployment, training and equipment that they need in order to be able to do the job when they do deploy.

Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, who chaired the hearing, said hes very empathetic to the people of Haiti and has requested a briefing from the National Security Council.

I want to be supportive but until Ive been briefed on what the plan is and, where the money and guns are going to, I cannot in good conscience send money and guns down to a lawless society without a government, he said, referring to the forced resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry by Washington. We have a long history in this country of arming countries with weapons and cash and it blows back on us. I want to make sure that what were doing here makes sense, not only for the American taxpayer but for the Haitian people. Because if we arm the warlords and fund them, they will be the victims, the people of Haiti.

Senior Biden administration officials say they have provided more than five dozen briefings about the mission to Republicans, and every day there is a delay in getting funding, is a day Haitian gangs move the country closer to a humanitarian catastrophe.

It is critical to get a multinational security force led by the Kenyans on the ground in Haiti as soon as possible to help bring about stability and calm so that we can alleviate the suffering of innocent people in Haiti, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said this week when asked about the funding.

We would like support on a bipartisan basis from the Congress to unlock that funding, which is currently being held. And were pressing for that on a daily basis.

The partisan budget fight in Washington isnt just isolated to Haiti. Congress has been odds over funding for Ukraine, leading Biden to rely on his authority to take weapons from U.S. stocks in an emergency to get assistance to the Eastern European nation.

Mark Cancian, a retired U.S. Marine colonel and senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said the so-called drawdown authority has been around since it was established under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

It was limited to $100 million a year for this kind of situation  a country that needs some equipment but doesnt have the money to pay for the equipment and maybe we have some excess and we just give it to the country, he said.

With the war in Ukraine, Congress increased the amount the president could authorize to up to $26 billion, Cancian said.

The White House is likely using some of the remaining elements of the authority for Haiti, he added.

The administration has not provided specifics on what type of firearms will be sent to Haiti, where armed gangs have used trafficking routes out of Florida, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic to illegally acquire weapons and ammunition.

Since Feb. 29, an alliance of armed gang leaders have turned Port-au-Prince into a battlefield, looting and vandalizing businesses and government institutions while orchestrating a jailbreak of the countrys two largest prisons.

Tens of thousand of people have been forced to abandon the capital. The United Nations has warned that over 1 million hungry Haitians, many of them children, are on the brink of famine as the seaport and airport remain closed, food prices skyrocket and aid distributions are disrupted by heavy gunfire.

Late Wednesday, members of the current government finally agreed to the publication of an order establishing a new transitional framework for governing. The new transitional presidential council, once formalized, will be tasked with helping Haiti forge a path out of the chaos and onto elections by appointing a new prime minister and government.

While the new council will bring new faces to the leadership posts, it remains unclear if if will tamp down the violence.

In a video circulated on social media Wednesday, gang boss and former cop Jimmy Barbecue Cherizier issued threats against the new councils seven voting members and two non-voting observers.

Speaking from a vehicle, a Cherizier accused the embassies of the United States, Canada and France of keeping the country in misery and hiding behind the 15-member Caribbean Community regional bloc, CARICOM, to come up with a transitional presidential council made up of nine thieves and a gang of political parties. He accused council members of fighting for power so you can regenerate the [same] system.

Everyone who is going to die in the country, their death will be on your conscience, Cherizier said. Everything that will happen in the country will be on you.

No shortage of ammunition for armed gangs

Mines noted that recent video footage shows gang members with very expensive weapons and the apparent training to use them. There is no indication of a shortage of ammunition, he said.

It has been amazing to me that U.S. policy was inadvertently arming the gangs better than the police and army, he said. The security forces could not get the weapons they needed because of U.S. export limitations to law enforcement agencies, while the gangs, facing no such impediment, were able to acquire heavier and more sophisticated weapons.

Those export limits not only required the Haitian police to get U.S. permission to purchase arms, it also dictated the kinds of guns and ammunition, which Haiti could only purchase from countries other than the U.S.

Those regulations, say two former Haitian police chiefs, delayed how fast they could get guns into the hands of cops and limited the forces ability to root out gangs. Take for example the 28th promotion of 800 new police recruits, from just a few years ago.

Michel-Ange Gedeon, who served as police chief between 2017-2020, recalled how the cops couldnt graduate on time from the police academy because of the shortage of weapons and ammunition.

Gedeon led the national police as the last of the U.N. peacekeepers were preparing to end the mission after 15 years. He asked for armored vehicles, two helicopters, ammunition and automatic rifles for the specialized police units, as part of a Haiti National Police five-year strategic plan. None of it was given, neither by the Haitian government at the time nor the international community.

Acknowledging that the same gangs he battled just a few years ago have more guns and more ammunition today, Gedeon still believes its something we could have resolved in the beginning, if we had enough force, enough power to resolve the issue. But unfortunately, we did not have the equipment, or the guns that I requested.

As for the weapons on their way to the police force, he said, its a good thing and hopes its the beginning of a new policy.

McClatchy Chief Washington Correspondent Michael Wilner contributed to this report.
By Takuya Karube, KYODO NEWS - Apr 12, 2024 - 10:35 | All, Japan, World

The leaders of the United States, Japan and the Philippines on Thursday agreed to advance their defense and economic cooperation, in a move aimed at pushing back against China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed "serious concerns" about China's "dangerous and aggressive" actions in the South China Sea in a statement released after the first-ever summit between leaders of the three countries, held in Washington.

Major initiatives agreed upon at the White House include supporting Philippine defense modernization efforts and a plan to conduct a joint maritime exercise of naval forces around Japan in 2025.

The United States and Japan will also further assist the Philippine Coast Guard to strengthen its capabilities, with the three announcing the establishment of a trilateral maritime dialogue to improve coordination.

As part of steps to enhance interoperability, a U.S. Coast Guard vessel will welcome Japanese and Philippine coast guard members aboard during a patrol this year.

Apart from promoting such drills and combined naval training, they agreed to launch a trilateral humanitarian and disaster response exercise involving their navies.

As they began discussions, Biden said he wanted to be clear that U.S. defense commitments to Japan, which faces confrontational Chinese maneuvers over the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, and the Philippines are "ironclad."

The summit was held a day after Biden hosted Kishida for an official meeting and a lavish state dinner, during which the two voiced their resolve to deepen ties with like-minded countries to ensure peace and stability in the region and beyond.

While calling their talks "historic," Marcos said, "But this meeting can be just a beginning. Facing the complex challenges of our time requires concerted efforts on everyone's part."

Kishida said that "multi-layered cooperation between allies and like-minded countries is essential if we are to maintain and bolster a free and open international order based on the rule of law."

At a time when the Philippines is under increased pressure from China over the Second Thomas Shoal in the disputed South China Sea, the leaders underscored their staunch commitment to respecting international law and the sovereign rights of other states.

Biden reiterated that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea will invoke their long-standing defense treaty, which obliges each to assist the other if it comes under attack.

The three-way meeting was held as the United States and Japan seek to increase joint defense exercises with Australia, Britain and the Philippines.

The Marcos administration is struggling to combat Chinese activity in contested areas of the South China Sea, while at the same time being wary of the possibility it could be dragged into the geopolitical rivalry between Washington and Beijing.

Last month, vessels from China, which claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, once again hit a Philippine boat with water cannons near the Manila-controlled shoal, damaging the vessel and injuring its navy crew members.

In addition to boosting cooperation on maritime safety, the leaders expanded the scope of the trilateral framework to economic projects in the Philippines linked to infrastructure, supply chains and energy.

One of the main projects is to support the development of an economic corridor on the most populous Philippine island of Luzon.

The development is aimed at improving connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas, with "high-impact infrastructure projects" expected, including the modernization of ports and railways.

The two countries will also support the Philippines' access to cutting-edge technologies, such as those related to semiconductors and wireless communication systems, and on the transition to cleaner energy, offering more training for policymakers, scientists and engineers on nuclear energy.

Related coverage:

Biden to host 3-way summit with Japan, Philippines on April 11
Joe Biden has said Washingtons commitment to defending its allies in East Asia was ironclad as he promised to back Philippines against Chinas attacks in the disputed South China Sea.

The US president met Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida at the White House on Thursday as tensions and concerns about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific continued to surge.

The United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, the US president said during his first-ever trilateral summit with the leaders from both the Asian nations.

As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defence treaty, Mr Biden said.

The naval forces of China and Philippines have had direct confrontation in the South China Sea, especially in the disputed reef of Second Thomas. While Beijing claims direct ownership of the submerged reef, the Philippines has a garrison sitting atop a grounded warship in the waters.

US President Joe Biden speaks to the press with Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida (R) and Filipino president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (L) ahead of a trilateral meeting at the White House in Washington, DC, on 11 April 2024 (AFP via Getty Images)

The White House has called the trilateral meeting as a potent response from the US, Japan and the Philippines to Chinas repeated intimidation attempts. A Biden administration official said that this first-ever meeting will send a message that China is the outlier in the neighbourhood.

According to a statement from the White House, Mr Biden and Mr Marcos during the talks underscored their commitment to international law in the South China Sea and reaffirmed their countries treaty obligations to defend each other.

Japan, Philippines and the US will also hold joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific region this year, a form of a follow-up on law enforcement drills carried out last year by the allies in the waters near the South China Sea.

The US Coast Guard will welcome members from the Philippine and Japanese coast guard onto their vessel during the patrol for training, the White House said.

Mr Biden also announced that the three nations were launching a new economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment that would help develop clean energy, port, agriculture and other projects in the country.

The US president added that the three leaders were forging a new era and predicted a great deal of history in our world will be written in the Indo-Pacific in the coming years.

This is a landmark visit for Mr Kishida who also attended a glitzy dinner at the White House on Wednesday after one-on-one talks concluded.

He is the first Japanese leader to visit Washington as a state guest since former prime minister Shinzo Abe in 2015 who revised the interpretation of Japans pacifist Constitution to allow its self-defense-only principle to also cover its ally, the US.
Biden warns Iran attack on Israel may be sooner than later

Biden warns Iran attack on Israel may be sooner than later

President Biden warned Friday that the expected attack Iran is planning on Israel could happen soon.

When asked about how imminent the attack on Israel may be, Biden said he didnt want to get into classified information and added his expectation is sooner than later.

He also replied dont when asked for his message to Iran.

We are devoted to the defense of Israel, the president added. We will support Israel and help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.

U.S. officials have sounded the alarm this week that Iran is expected to launch a retaliatory attack on Israel in response to an April 1 attack on its embassy in Syria. The suspected Israeli attack killed seven Iranian military advisers, including three senior members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

White House national security communications adviser John Kirby told reporters earlier Friday that the Iranian threat is viable.

Were watching it very, very closely, he said, adding that the U.S. will continue to stay in close touch with our Israeli counterparts about preparations for this threat.

The State Department also issued updated security warnings for U.S. government employees in Israel, restricting them and their families from personal travel outside of the greater Tel Aviv area, Jerusalem and the southern city of Beer Sheva.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Joe Biden on Friday said he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner rather than later," delivering a pessimistic assessment even as he warned Tehran against taking such an action.

Answering questions from reporters after delivering remarks to a convention of civil rights leaders, Biden said his grim outlook was based on intelligence reports that he was not at liberty to describe further.

Asked what he would say to Iran about a potential attack, Biden was terse. "Don't," he replied.

Expectations for a retaliatory attack have risen in the days since an Israeli strike on an Iranian embassy in Syria killed a number of senior commanders on April 1. Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had said that Israel "must be punished" for the embassy attack though Israel has not claimed responsibility for it.

The United States has begun restricting staff travel in Israel amid growing fears of an attack, either by Iran or its proxies.

Biden vowed that the U.S. would continue to defend Israel from any attacks, even as he has upped his criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war in Gaza.

"We are devoted to the defense of Israel," Biden said. "We will support Israel and help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed."

U.S. officials are discussing a variety of assessments of Irans likely actions, with a consensus forming that Tehran will take some retaliatory action, according to two State Department officials who were granted anonymity to discuss the dynamics.

But U.S. officials also believe Iran is likely to avoid striking American targets, a sign it does not want the conflict to escalate further. The U.S. believes Iran wants to send a message to Israel without compelling Washington to respond militarily, POLITICO reported .

If Iran does strike  either directly, through proxy militias or both  there is an expectation that it will strike inside Israel, and possibly elsewhere in the region, including Iraq, one of the State Department officials said. U.S. officials do not expect that Iran will hit Israeli targets in other parts of the world.

Iran-allied militant groups such as Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon, could play a role, the official said, as could another ally, Yemens Houthis.

The Houthis have this newfound role, authority, power that theyve discovered they have. They feel theyre riding high, the official said. They may attack  maybe not because Iran directs them, but because they want to jump on the bandwagon.

U.S. officials are trying to reassure Israel that Washington is solidly in its corner in the face of an Iranian attack. But they also suggest that they want to keep Israel from making any future move that could deepen the crisis.

The administration has been in touch with Israel to ensure they are able to defend themselves from the significant threat they face while at the same time prevent tensions from escalating, a U.S. official familiar with the issue said.


President Joe Biden told reporters on Wednesday that he was considering a request made by the government of Australia to drop the extradition case against Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks who is currently imprisoned in the U.K.

"We're considering it," Biden said after a reporter asked him where he stands in regards to Australias request.

Mr. Assange has already paid a significant price and enough is enough. There is nothing to be gained by Mr. Assanges continued incarceration, Anthony Albanese, the current Prime Minister of Australia, told Sky News on Thursday. Assange is an Australian citizen, and in February, the Australian parliament passed a motion calling for his release.

Assange was arrested in London on April 11, 2019exactly five years ago on Thursdayfor failing to appear in court after his Ecuadorian asylum status was revoked. Since then, the U.S. government has requested that the British government extradite him to the U.S., where he would face charges under the Espionage Act. Assange helped obtain and publish thousands of confidential U.S. military documents related to the Iraq war, which the U.S. says endangered its national defense. Assanges defense argues that publishing the documents helped serve the public interest because they exposed war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan that were previously unknown to the American public.

In 2021, a Justice Department spokesman under the Biden Administration had said that it would continue to pursue extradition, according to Reuters.

If Biden goes through with Australias request, it would indicate a dramatic reversal of policy, says Professor Charlie Beckett, a professor of media studies at the London School of Economics and the author of the book WikiLeaks: News in the Networked Era.

Him even considering it is an absolutely fascinating change of tone, says Beckett. When Assange was arrested, many prominent Democrats initially pressed for his extradition. Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Assange should answer for what he has done while Chuck Schumer, the current Senate Majority leader tweeted that he hoped Assange would soon be held to account for his meddling in our elections on behalf of Putin and the Russian government.

However, increasingly, progressive groups have pushed for Assanges release, saying that to prosecute the man would be a violation of his freedom of speech as a journalist. The indictment of Mr. Assange threatens press freedom because much of the conduct described in the indictment is conduct that journalists engage in routinelyand that they must engage in in order to do the work the public needs them to do, Human Rights Watch wrote in its coalition letter to the Department of Justice.

Read More: Historic for All the Wrong Reasons. Press Freedom Advocates Condemn Julian Assange Extradition Ruling

So far, Assange has yet to be extradited because he has appealed his case numerous times to British courts. Last month, a British court ruled that the U.S. cannot extradite Assange unless it can guarantee that Assange will be provided with First Amendment rights, will not be prejudiced due to his nationality, and will not receive the death penalty. If the U.S. is able to prove that it can meet these three criteria then Assange may be extradited within this year.

Read More: Heres Whats Next if the U.K. Approves Julian Assanges Extradition to the U.S.

Assange has spent approximately 12 years in some form of confinement, seven in the Ecuadorian embassy in London where he was granted asylum, and another five in a London prison trying to avoid extradition via appeals cases. His co-conspirator, former U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning, spent seven years in an American prison but was released in May 2017 after her sentence was commuted by President Barack Obama.

The irony is that it's possible.. that had he come to the U.S. and had he been convicted he may have already served a sentence and he may already be freed, says Gary Ross, the director of intelligence studies at Texas A&M University. But because of his self-isolation and his fighting the extradition now he is still at the point where he has to come back and face the charges.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Representing itself as a group of concerned local citizens, the "Moderate PAC" last week began airing a 30-second ad accusing progressive first-term Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., of being disloyal to President Joe Biden.

"Our rights are under attack, our democracy at risk, and in this moment, Representative Summer Lee is opposing President Biden," the narrator intones over saturated imagery of rioters storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. It closed by calling for voters to support local Pittsburgh-area politician Bhavini Patel, Lee's challenger for the 12th district congressional seat. The two face in a primary contest later this month.

But the Moderate PAC is not what it appears to be. Far from centrist, its chief backer is actually a GOP megadonor and staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, whose own inflammatory rhetoric inspired the Jan. 6 insurrection. Indeed, according to the PAC's most recent financial disclosures, hedge fund billionaire Jeff Yass contributed $1.8 million of the $2 million the group has raised since it was established in 2022 by Ty Strong, a former analyst with the consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton.

Moderate PAC can claim some donations from local organizations and individuals, but their donations have been dwarfed by Yass' lavish spending, which has been focused as of late on taking down the first Black woman to join Pennsylvania's congressional delegation. So far this cycle, Moderate PAC has spent $586,000 on a campaign tarring Lee, first elected in 2022, as an "extreme socialist."

Yass, a supporter of conservative policy initiatives and a member of Trump's informal brain trust, wields outsized influence in Republican politics. His company, Susquehanna Investment Group, holds a $22 million stake in Trump Media. Last month, Business Insider reported that Yass, whose company has a 15% stake in TikTok parent compay ByteDance, may have influenced Trump to flip from advocating for a TikTok ban to lobbying House Republicans to oppose it.

Even before the latest disclosure, Lee was drawing attention to Yass' influence in her own campaign ads, one of which features a supporter declaring: "I know Republican-funded Super PACs are lying about her again."

Lee, who has also been targeted by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) for speaking out against Israel's actions in Gaza, counts on support from progressive groups like the Working Families Party and Justice Democrats, which have collectively spent $600,000 on her behalf.

"Every cycle Republican billionaires find a new Super PAC to spend millions of dollars against me in the final weeks of my election," Lee told Salon. That, she argued, is "because there's no greater threat to Donald Trump than a Black woman that expands our Democratic electorate, delivers on Democratic priorities from abortion rights to environmental justice, and unapologetically stands up to billionaires and corporate power on behalf of marginalized people."

Patel, who has no control over outside spending, initially welcomed Moderate PAC's support, sending an email last month to supporters that praised its ads for "[highlighting] the movement of mainstream Democrats to coalesce behind Bhavini Patel."

Asked Friday if she would call out and reject support from the Republican megadonor, Patel told Salon that she has "denounced Jeffrey Yass on the debate stage." She also insisted she is "the only candidate in this race 100% behind President Biden."

Moderate PAC, which previously represented itself as speaking for disgruntled Democrats, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Yass' support of Moderate PAC is but one example of a now-common strategy to undermine progressive members of Congress in Democratic primary elections. AIPAC, an officially nonpartisan lobbying group, has spent millions of dollars from both conservative and liberal donors to attack Democratic candidates deemed to be insufficiently pro-Israel, though many of their ads criticize them on unrelated issues. In an escalation from previous election cycles, groups like AIPAC are taking an active role in recruiting primary opponents to progressive incumbents like Jamaal Bowman, a New York congressman in danger of losing his seat to Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

Though AIPAC reportedly sought a 2024 challenger to Lee, the organization has not officially stepped into Lee's primary battle with Patel, for now. If they decide to take her on, Lee will be prepared; in 2022, she overcame $5 million worth of AIPAC money to prevail by a mere 1,000 votes.

Emilia Rowland, a spokesperson for Lee, argued that the revelation that Yass is behind the lawmaker's primary rival should inform voters' decisions.

"After weeks of lies and coverups, voters have the right to know that Republicans' number one donor this cycle is the number one financial supporter of Summer's opponent in the April 23 Democratic primary," Rowland said.
As the number of dead endangered smalltooth sawfish found in the Florida Keys since the end of January creeps up on 40, biologists made progress last week in their struggle to solve the mystery into what is killing them  and whether the culprit is linked to a larger fish kill plaguing the area since the fall.

On April 5, a scene that is becoming all too familiar played out off the Gulf side of Cudjoe Key, about 23 miles north of Key West.

A member of the public reported seeing a sawfish  a large shark-looking ray with a long serrated rostrum used for hunting fish and for defense  swimming in circles in shallow water.

The bizarre behavior has shown to be an imminent sign that the distressed fish is about to die.

Last week, however, biologists were able to rescue the 11-foot male from the Cudjoe waters. They have taken it to the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota to be studied.

This has not been attempted before, but this unusual mortality event made this necessary, Gil McRae, director of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissions Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, said in a statement.

We are hopeful this rescue and rehabilitation of an adult smalltooth sawfish will bring us one step closer to understanding the cause of this event.

The fish was transported to Mote inside a truck operated by Ripleys Aquarium, while being monitored during the 7-hour trip by aquarium staff.

Adam Brame, sawfish recovery coordinator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, told the Herald the fish is being kept in a large tank at Mote, and is so far responding well. Its not eating on its own yet, but it is displaying normal behavior, such as swimming with its rostrum, where many of the animals sensory organs are located, elevated above its body.

The idea is to take it out and into an environment where we can control a lot of the fishs natural healing ability while its not fighting additional stressors, Brame said.

As of Friday, the official number of dead sawfish in the Keys since Jan. 29 is 38, according to Floridas fish and wildlife commission, known as the FWC.

These deaths have coincided with a fish kill thats been happening since November impacting hundreds of species. The other species are also demonstrating the same strange spinning behavior, and scientists are scrambling to find out what is going on and the degree to which the two events may be related.

Ruled out so far, to the relief of scientists and wildlife officials, are red tide toxins, based on water samples taken from the impacted area  from Big Pine Key down to Key West.

And necropsy data taken from dead fish samples so far has not turned up any communicable pathogens and the fish were negative for bacterial infections, according to the FWC. Dissolved oxygen levels, salinity, acidity and temperature are also not suspected to be the causes of the fish kills or spinning, according to the FWC.

And, state scientists have conducted water tests for a variety of chemicals, which were either not detected or were below normal limits, the FWC said on its site dedicated to the fish kill.

For the erratic, spinning behavior, scientists have speculated it may be related to a toxin called gambierdiscus, which causes a food-borne illness called ciguatera in people who eat infected fish. Its common in the Keys because it grows as a micro algae on the coral reef. Basically, smaller fish eat the algae, and the toxin gets passed up the food chain right up to people who eat larger predator fish.

One of the difficulties with the focus on gambierdiscus is that, while it has been found in elevated levels in the affected area since scientists have begun investigating the fish kill, there havent been any more reports than usual of people getting sick with ciguatera.

We are preparing to conduct some fish exposure studies to home in on the mechanism of exposure and to confirm (or reject) this hypothesis, Mike Parsons, professor of marine science at Florida Gulf Coast University and director of the Vester Field Station of the universitys Water School, told the Herald in an email on Friday.

We are not sure if this is also the cause of the sawfish mortalities (could be coincidental), but we will use the data collected in other fish and apply these findings to the sawfish, Parsons wrote.

Parsons said that many sick fish that his team has collected recover when taken from the impacted waters, and that is a positive sign.

Among the institutions that have dispatched scientists to try to solve the fish kill/spinning case are NOAA, FWC, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida International University, the University of South Alabama, as well as nonprofits such as the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust.

This type of rescue effort doesnt happen without these types of partnerships, Brame said.

Integral to the effort to get to the bottom of whats happening has been the public reporting seeing distressed fish.

Its important to note the public plays a very important roll. Theyve been our eyes and ears on the ground, Brame said.

To report any unhealthy, injured or dead sawfish, contact the FWC Sawfish Hotline at 844-472-9374 or via email at Sawfish@myfwc.com with the date, time and location of the encounter, estimated length, water depth and any other relevant details.

See also NOAAs smalltooth sawfish safe-handling and release procedures. Report abnormal fish behavior, fish disease, fish kills to FWCs Fish Kill Hotline either through the web form MyFWC.com/ReportFishKill or by phone 800-636-0511.
A bloodthirsty ISIS branch is 'on the upswing' after the US left Afghanistan in a lurch, a former top commander says

The past few years have seen a surge in activity from ISIS-K, the terror group's Afghanistan branch.

Once limited to the country, ISIS-K has now emerged as a broader threat to other regions.

Its strengthening can be attributed to a lack of US military pressure and a more distracted Taliban.

In the years since the US and its NATO allies left Afghanistan, a particularly violent branch of the Islamic State terror group has grown stronger.

ISIS-K was once relatively restricted to the country, with limited influence beyond its borders. But it has since expanded and is now responsible for deadly attacks farther away from its home base, including a bloody massacre at a Moscow concert hall last month.

Under the loose watch of a second Taliban government, the terror group has found space to develop and thrive, while also enjoying the absence of the military forces that used to be a thorn in its side, a former top US commander said.

"It doesn't take very long for these organizations to rise up and become more capable," retired Gen. Joseph Votel, who oversaw military operations in the Middle East in the 2010s, told Business Insider.

US Soldiers, assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, prepare to board a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft to leave Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan on Aug 30, 2021. US Air Force/Senior Airman Taylor Crul/Handout via REUTERS

ISIS-K, also known as the Islamic State in Khorasan Provence, is the notorious terror group's Afghanistan affiliate. It emerged in 2015 shortly after the organization declared a caliphate in Iraq and Syria.

During the first few years of its existence, ISIS-K attacks were mainly confined to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The group has a bitter rivalry with the Taliban, due to sectarian differences, and has fought against the militants, as well as US and Afghan forces.

In the months leading up to the Afghan government's collapse in August 2021, ISIS-K launched dozens of attacks. But the group gained the most global attention just days before the last US troops left Kabul after a suicide bombing at the airport killed at least 169 Afghans and 13 American service members.

A 'galvanizing element' for ISIS-K

Since the US withdrawal, experts say there has been an overall surge in ISIS-K activity. The first year under the Taliban's rule saw a sharp uptick in terror attacks inside Afghanistan. But that trend has changed in recent months; attacks inside the country declined while attacks beyond its borders have increased.

This image from a video released by the Department of Defense shows US Marines at Abbey Gate before a suicide attack at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul on Aug. 26, 2021. Department of Defense via AP, File

Both the American departure and the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has "energized" ISIS-K, Michael Kugelman, the director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center think tank, told BI.

ISIS-K saw an opportunity to go after the militants, their sworn enemies, and make them look bad, projecting an image to the Afghan people that the Taliban are incapable of restoring peace and security. Their return to power, in effect, "has been a galvanizing element for ISIS-K," Kugelman said, "and that's why they've been scaling up attacks."

The Taliban have attempted to combat ISIS-K over the last few years and have managed to find some success degrading the group internally. But the militants now also have more responsibilities to which they are diverting resources and effort  leaving gaps in their territorial governance and oversight. Thus, the conditions inside Afghanistan have awarded the terror group space to develop a greater capacity to stage external attacks.

Taliban fighters from the Fateh Zwak unit storm into the Kabul International Airport, wielding American-supplied weapons, equipment and uniforms on Aug. 31, 2021. MARCUS YAM / LOS ANGELES TIMES

The lack of a US military presence inside Afghanistan is also a major factor in how ISIS-K has managed to become more influential. Without constant pressure, "these organizations have an ability to regenerate themselves," said Votel, who served as the commander of US Central Command, or CENTCOM, from 2016 to 2019.

"That's the concern" with ISIS-K right now, he said.

'A global threat in very little time'

Prior to August 2021, the US had a wide range of tools at its disposal that it could use to fight ISIS-K and keep pressure on the terrorists as its adversary  the Taliban  did the same.

Washington had significant intelligence capabilities on the ground and the ability to conduct kinetic strikes against the terror group, while also advising and assisting Afghan forces in conducting key operations. But this "mowing-the-grass" approach to counterterrorism, Votel said, has since paved way for a stronger and more resilient ISIS-K that's focused on projecting its influence elsewhere.

"We had a lot of flexibility in terms of how we were trying to go after [ISIS-K] and put pressure on them in a variety of ways," he said. Now, "we're seeing their ability to project beyond the borders of Afghanistan and go do things in other areas."

Afghan Special Security Forces operators prepare to enter an ISIS-K compound in Darzab district, Jowzjan province, Afghanistan, Mar. 21, 2018. US Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Doug Ellis

ISIS-K has long been behind attacks in its immediate neighborhood, in places like Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asia. Earlier this year, for instance, a twin suicide bombing in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman killed nearly 100 people who had gathered to mark the fourth anniversary of Qassem Soleimani's assassination at the hands of a US drone strike.

The terror group has also been linked to planned attacks in Europe. Then, in March, gunmen stormed a Moscow concert hall and set fire to the facility, killing more than 140 people. The shocking carnage, which was built upon ISIS-K's longstanding grievances with Russia, underscored its ability to strike far beyond the region that it was meant to focus on as a branch of the Islamic State.

"It has been able to project a global threat in very little time," Kugelman said, adding that it seems like out of nowhere, just over the last year or so, ISIS-K has "started to be linked to all of these attacks outside of Afghanistan."

'We don't have much on the ground to help'

The US has closely monitored ISIS-K in the years since the deadly Kabul airport bombing, with officials routinely warning that the terror group continues to pose a significant threat.

Emergency services vehicles are seen outside the burning Crocus City Hall concert hall following an attack in the Moscow area on March 22, 2024. Photo by STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images

Gen. Michael Kurilla, the current CENTCOM commander, told lawmakers in March that ISIS-K could strike US or Western interests abroad with little to no warning in a matter of months  reiterating similar remarks he delivered the year prior.

Days after the Moscow attack, White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby said the Biden administration is "very vigilant in monitoring ISIS-K activity, such to the point that the US was able to warn Russia of an imminent attack ahead of time.

"Because we're watching it very, very closely, we don't see any sort of credible threat by ISIS to the American homeland," Kirby told reporters, adding that it's "not something we're taking for granted."

Without boots on the ground in Afghanistan, options are fairly limited to combating ISIS-K. The White House has previously backed an over-the-horizon targeting strategy that relies on surveillance systems to hunt down terrorists and kill them in drone strikes, but there doesn't appear to be evidence that such a strategy has worked.

"ISIS-K is on the upswing right now," Votel said. "And we don't have much on the ground to help reduce that risk that this organization poses."

An image from aerial footage of a GBU-43/B bomb striking an ISIS-K cave and tunnel systems in the Achin district of the Nangarhar Province in eastern Afghanistan, April 13, 2017. Department of Defense courtesy photo

The US still has the ability to gather meaningful intelligence in the region, although Votel said these capabilities are likely diminished from what they previously were. But it's very important, he stressed, that the US continues to dedicate resources toward the threat and make it a priority.

One way for the US to do this is to work with regional partners around Afghanistan, such as Pakistan or states in Central Asia, to increase collaboration and the exchange of information with regard to violent extremism, Votel said. Another method would be for lawmakers to reauthorize a powerful surveillance tool known as Section 702, which is set to expire later this month.

As US and partner forces continue to battle ISIS with great effect in Iraq and Syria, the terror group's Afghanistan affiliate remains a loose cannon of sorts. And as they continue to recruit from around the world, the threat is clearly enough to keep Washington on its toes.

"The fact that ISIS-K has shown not only the will but also the capacity to target Americans  that in and of itself, I think, is reason for concern for the perspective of US policymakers," Kugelman said, "and a good reason why it's important not to take our eye off the ball, so to speak, when it comes to this threat."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Bloomberg: Ukrainian army collapse 'cannot be ruled out,' US official says

The possibility of a collapse of Ukraine's army "cannot be ruled out" and Ukraine is at its "most fragile moment in over two years of war," according to U.S. officials, Bloomberg reported on April 11.

Ukraine's position on the battlefield has been weakened in recent months by a dire shortage of ammunition, exacerbated by an ongoing impasse in Congress over U.S. aid to Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with CBS News that a new major Russian offensive may come at the end of May or in June.

According to the official, who spoke to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity, the U.S. "doesn't see any signs of an imminent breakthrough by Russian forces."

Ukraine is, however, at its "most fragile moment in over two years of war, according to Western officials with knowledge of the situation," Bloomberg said.

Meanwhile, Russia has largely replaced its heavy battlefield losses in Ukraine, and at a much faster pace than anticipated, U.S. General Christopher Cavoli warned on April 11.

"Russia is reconstituting that force far faster than our initial estimates suggested," Cavoli wrote in a statement to Congress. "The army is actually now larger  by 15 percent  than it was when it invaded Ukraine."

A key risk is a collapse of Ukraine's defenses, which would give Russia an "opening to make a major advance for the first time since the initial stages of the conflict," Bloomberg said, citing talks with multiple officials.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on April 12 that the government has allocated an additional Hr 3.88 billion (almost $100 million) for the construction of fortifications, primarily in Kharkiv and Sumy oblasts, which border Russia.

The Ukrainian government already allocated Hr 20 billion ($512 million) for building fortifications in 2024, Shymhal said in January.

The Wall Street Journal reported in March that although Ukrainian troops are building fortifications in expectation of another Russian offensive, there are concerns that the progress is not fast enough.

Read also: Id be a king in Somalia with this money: Foreign POWs on being lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
As she lay in a hospital bed near Cleveland, Pammy Maye couldn't stay silent.

The 48-year-old, in excruciating detail and with little emotion, recounted to detectives how she suffocated 5-year-old Darnell Taylor, for whom Maye and her husband were the legal guardians, and placed his body in a sewage drain  all because she said the boy had eaten snacks in his bed.

"You should never take nobody's life," Maye told Columbus homicide detective Delbert Chapman. "If you take somebody's life, your life should be taken away. Why should I have the right to live?"

Pammy Maye, seen in a photo from a March 1 court appearance, is charged with aggravated murder, tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse in connection with the death of 5-year-old Darnell Taylor.

Body camera from a Brooklyn, Ohio, police officer, provided to The Dispatch in response to a public records request, captured Maye's confession.

Brooklyn police gave The Dispatch more than 30 videos from body cameras, but most of them are pixelated and the sound has been redacted. The police department said the videos are investigatory work products. Portions of some videos are visible until Maye is read her Miranda rights and then the video becomes pixelated, and the sound removed.

However, one video, from a female officer who is with Maye as she is checked out at a hospital near where she was found, shows Maye's entire interaction and confession.

Video shows Pammy Maye telling officers where Darnell Taylor's body is

Two days earlier, Maye had prompted an Amber Alert after she told her husband she had killed Taylor and he called 911.

Maye has been charged with aggravated murder, tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse. She has entered a not guilty plea through her attorney to all the charges and remains in the Franklin County jail.

Maye's attorney, Sam Shamansky, has told Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge Mark Serrott, who is overseeing the case, that he intends to argue Maye is not guilty by reason of insanity because of her mental state at the time she killed Darnell.

On Feb. 15, officers from the Brooklyn Police Department in northeast Ohio got a call from a local business where Maye had gone to use the phone. The officers who arrived read Maye her rights and then had her taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

Maye was wearing a coat, nightgown and plastic bags over her socks and up her legs, according to the video. She had no shoes.

While at the hospital, Maye was adamant about helping the officers, including waving off a nurse who said she needed to go get a test performed, saying speaking with the officers was more important.

The footage shows Maye helping Brooklyn police officers, one of whom had Google Maps pulled up on a laptop, locate the place where she had dumped 5-year-old Darnell Taylor's body.

Maye provided the officers with details, saying the area was near her parents' home, the house appeared gray and there was a swing set in a yard.

Hours later, Columbus police officers would find Darnell's body where Maye said it was  and in the same condition she described it.

Maye's confession: 'I want to tell the truth'

About 35 minutes into the video, Columbus homicide detective Delbert Chapman arrived at the hospital. He read Maye her rights, which she waived both verbally and through signing a form.

"I don't want to remain silent because I want to tell the truth," Maye told Chapman.

During the interview, Maye said at least five times that her actions were premeditated.

Maye said she had not consumed any alcohol or drugs, and the video appears to show her receiving IV fluids but no medications.

Darnell Taylor, 5, died on Feb. 13. His body was found several days later in a street storm drain. Pammy Maye, who along with her husband was the legal guardian of Taylor, is charged with aggravated murder, tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse in connection with his death.

During the next 40 minutes, Maye told Chapman how she had used a black, 30-gallon trash compactor bag to suffocate Darnell.

"This was premeditated. I always own white trash bags, but I had one (compactor bag) left," Maye said. "I kept one for whatever reason. Of course, I dont need one to take my sons life."

When Chapman asked if Darnell fought her as she was putting the trash bag over him, she said "he's real submissive" because she's "real harsh" on him and "more of the alpha" than her husband.

"My husband was more into the cuddling and stuff. Me and my son really didn't have a relationship, it was more a distant relationship because of his behavior and stuff like that," Maye said. "He was tentative about me. I was harsh and strict on him about stuff. My husband was more the good parent."

Maye said she had decided to kill Darnell after he had gotten up in the middle of the night and gotten snacks, a granola bar and some peanut butter crackers, and was eating them in his bed. She told Chapman she was "triggered about the snacks and stuff."

She described going into the 5-year-old's room at 11:06 a.m. on Feb. 13, taking off a pull-up diaper Darnell was wearing and putting the trash bag over his entire body, starting with his head, before tying a double knot at his feet and leaving the room for about 10 minutes.

"He had said stuff, like 'Mommy' and then he said the f-word, but I wasn't paying attention. I didn't care. It was so sad," Maye said. "In 10 minutes, I knew he wasn't moving and plus the bag was heavy."

Maye said she then moved Darnell, still in the trash bag, to a front closet and put him in a child's sleeping bag that had handles on it. She left him in the front closet for more than 12 hours.

A Brooklyn officer asked Maye to clarify what she did, asking if she strangled Darnell.

"No, suffocate him. With a black bag," Maye responded.

"Then you put him in the closet right by the door?" the officer asked.

"I didn't know what to do with his body, but I didn't just want to leave him in the bed," Maye said.

Pammy Maye described dumping boy's body as 'short transaction'

When Maye's husband came home from work hours later at about 11 p.m. Feb. 13, Darnell's body was still in the front closet, Maye said. Her husband assumed the boy was asleep and didn't check on him, she said. A few hours later, around 1:30 a.m. on Feb. 14, she left her house to dump Darnell's body.

Maye described to detectives moving the 5-year-old's body to the trunk of her Jeep, then to the front seating area so that the process of dumping would be quicker. She put an old license plate over the vanity plate on her Jeep to make the vehicle less recognizable and then drove to the area near her parents' home.

"I seen that perfect place," Maye said. "It was a short transaction."

Maye said she pushed Darnell's body, in the sleeping bag, into the drain on Marsdale Avenue on the city's Southwest side, hearing a "thump" before driving back to her home on Reeb Avenue.

Maye told Chapman she had driven back around the block to pick up the old license plate, which had fallen off, and that she did not think she had her cellphone with her, but if she did, she had turned it off.

She said when she got back home, she got into bed with her husband and told him she had something serious to share. Maye told detectives she told her husband that his son wasn't there, at which point her husband called 911.

"The only reason I fled with my nightgown ... was because I didn't want the police to come and interrogate me," Maye said, adding that she wasn't scared of being arrested. "I wanted to tell my husband, and he wasn't hearing it. I wanted to confess it to my husband first."

Maye said she drove to the Cleveland area because it was a route she knew and decided to park the Jeep she was driving in the parking lot of an apartment complex. She said she left the vehicle unlocked so that nobody would break the windows out and so her husband could get the car back for his own use.

At the end of the interview, Maye told Chapman she knows God will forgive her for what she did.

"Regardless, I need to be punished," she said. "I love life and I wouldn't want nobody to execute me, but I understand everything. Why take somebody's life, especially a child that can't live a life? I know better, and I knew what I was doing."

bbruner@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Pammy Maye confessed to killing Darnell Taylor over snack, video shows
Body of vampire, 22, found bloodless in abandoned Italian church after possible ghost-hunting TikTok challenge: reports

The body of Auriane Nathalie Laisne, 22, of Saint-Priest, near Lyon, was discovered by a hiker in a fetal position with her sweatshirt covered in blood from various wounds  days after her boyfriend Teima Sohaib allegedly killed her inside a deserted church in Aosta Valley, officials said according to Il Gazzettino.

The body of a French woman who was seen dressed like a vampire was found drained of blood with stab and gunshot wounds inside an abandoned church in Italy as police speculate she may have been taking part in a ghost-hunting TikTok challenge.

The body of Auriane Nathalie Laisne, 22, of Saint-Priest, near Lyon, was discovered by a hiker in a fetal position with her sweatshirt covered in blood from various wounds  days after her boyfriend Teima Sohaib allegedly killed her inside a deserted church in Aosta Valley, officials said according to Il Gazzettino.

Laisne had a domestic violence case opened in France against the 21-year-old Egyptian Italian who lived in Grenoble, France, which banned him from going near her, the outlet reported.

Police believe her death could be connected to a popular ghost-hunting TikTok challenge in France, according to CNN.

The body of Auriane Nathalie Laisne, 22, owas found with stab and gunshot wounds at an abandoned Italian church. ZUMAPRESS.com

The case is a classic femicide, Il Giornale reported an official saying during a press conference. A murder investigation has also been opened in Grenoble.

It is a classic femicide motivated by motives of possessiveness and control over the victims will, Aosta prosecutor Luca Ceccanti said, according to Il Giornale.

The person arrested in Lyon is seriously suspected of the crime of premeditated murder and other aggravating circumstances.

A witness saw the pair dressed like vampires and described Laisne as emaciated and looking like a corpse before her death, the outlet reported.

Chatelard Castle in La Salle, Valle dAosta. Italy, where the vampire was found. De Agostini via Getty Images

They were dressed like two Goths, all in dark. Like those boys who venerate death. I thought: two vampires, the unidentified witness told the Italian outlet.

And I also thought something else, for which I now feel very ashamed of: She was so pale, she looked like a corpse. I can no longer sleep knowing what happened.

Police are also working to determine if Laisnes death was a consented murder  or sacrifice  as she was found bloodless and had suffered a stab and three bullet wounds, CNN said.

Investigators believe she may have been stabbed with a camping knife and bled to death and was then shot twice in the neck and once in the abdomen after she died, medical examiner Roberto Testi and police said, according to the network.

Laisnes body was found in the church near a bag of pink marshmallows and other grocery items, the outlet said.

Her blood was also scraped off the floor and removed from the crime scene, police said. There were no signs of struggle, CNN reported.

Days after Laisnes corpse was discovered, Sohaib was arrested in Lyon.

The pair were believed to be traveling around Europe and had asked a resident of a nearby town where there were abandoned villages where they could camp, according to Il Gazzettino.

The abandoned church she was found in was not a part of tourist attractions and was little known even by residents, the Italian paper said.
Boeing 737 Max supplier Spirit AeroSystems is defending its controversial decision to use Dawn dish soap as a lubricant for the aircrafts door seals. Spirits use of soap and other odd, everyday objects like hotel key cards and wet cheesecloths to perform maintenance drew immediate public scrutiny last month. Now, Spirit claims both the dish soap and key card use cases were not only justified, but innovative.

[ Related: Dish soap, hotel key cards, and confusion: Boeing FAA audit unearths dozens of issues ]

During its six-week audit , an FAA investigator claimed they saw Spirit mechanics apply Dawn dish soap (yes, the kind sitting in household kitchens) to a 737 Max door seal to act as a lubricant. Separately, the investigator also witnessed a Spirit mechanic using a generic hotel key card to check a door seal. Spirit defended both of those practices in a recent interview with The New York Times .

Speaking with the Times, a Spirit spokesperson claims the company opted to use the dish soap because its particular chemical properties would not degrade the door seals materials over time. Once applied, the soap was intended to help prevent tears or bulges from occurring during the seals installation. It turns out dish soap wasnt the first household product Spirit considered for the job either.

Spirit workers did not land on the dish soap on the first try. [The Spirit spokesperson] said that other common products had been used in the past  including Vaseline, cornstarch and talcum powder  but that they ran the risk of degrading the seal over time.

Spirit similarly defended its use of the key card, claiming it was used to measure the gap between the seal and the door plug. The company claims mechanics tried to use other tools first but discovered they werent flexible enough to measure the gap without damaging the seal. The key card was.

Spirit claims it has since developed its own in-house tools that function like the key card which it calls a door rigger seal tool. Each of these use cases, Spirit claims, authorized by engineers at Boeing as appropriate shop aids.

People look at the hotel key card or Dawn soap and think this is sloppy, Spirit spokesman Joe Buccino said during a recent interview with the Times. This is actually an innovative approach to solving for an efficient shop aid.

A Boeing spokesperson told the Times the company had indeed approved both the soap and key card-like tool as shop aids. When reached for comment, Boeing confirmed the Times reporting but declined to comment further. An FAA spokesperson told PopSci it could not comment on the audit because it is part of an ongoing investigation into the two companies.

The FAA began its investigation into the two companies after a door plug blew off a 737 Max plane during an Alaskan Airlines flight in January. Since then, passengers onboard Boeing aircraft have endured a sudden nose-dive , a mid-air wheel detachment , and, most recently, the frightening loss of an engine cover . The repeated safety incidents have sparked multiple federal investigations. Dave Calhoun, the company's former CEO since January 2020, resigned last month .
A Boeing supplier says it tried using Vaseline, cornstarch, and talcum powder to lubricate a door seal before settling on Dawn dish soap: NYT

A Boeing supplier says it tried using Vaseline, cornstarch, and talcum powder to lubricate a door seal before settling on Dawn dish soap: NYT

Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems said it was being innovative when it used soap as a lubricant.

Besides the soap, FAA auditors say they saw Spirit mechanics use a hotel key card to check a door seal.

Spirit said both practices were approved by Boeing and the FAA.

A supplier for Boeing said it tried using other household products like Vaseline and cornstarch as a lubricant before it settled on using liquid Dawn soap, The New York Times reported on Thursday.

In March, The Times reported that Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) auditors saw Spirit AeroSystems' mechanics applying soap to a door seal.

The mechanics were also seen using a hotel key card to check a door seal, per an audit report obtained by The Times.

"People look at the hotel key card or Dawn soap and think this is sloppy. This is actually an innovative approach to solving for an efficient shop aid," Spirit spokesperson Joe Buccino told The Times.

According to Buccino, Spirit also tried using other household products such as Vaseline, cornstarch, and talcum powder as a lubricant before settling on liquid Dawn soap.

Buccino said the Dawn soap became their top choice because it didn't cause the door seal to degrade over time.

"The employment of nonstandard shop aides demonstrates the kind of innovation we have throughout this company," Buccino told BI.

Spirit told The Times that Boeing had approved both practices. The company added that the soap and the key card-like device were documented for use under FAA's standards as factory tools, also known as shop aids.

The company's chief technology officer, Sean Black, told The Times that Spirit came up with the key card-like device after seeing workers using a hotel key card to check gaps.

"Our workers routinely find creative ways to make the process of building fuselages more efficient. In this case, workers created the door rigger seal tool, which allows our teams to test the door seals without any risk of degrading the seal over time," Black told the outlet.

A spokesperson for Boeing confirmed to The Times that it had indeed approved Spirit's use of the soap and key card-like device, while an FAA representative declined BI's request for comment.

The audit, the FAA said, was part of its ongoing investigation into Boeing after a door plug on an Alaska Airlines flight blew out in January while the plane was still midair.

The controversy surrounding Spirit's unorthodox engineering practices takes place amid heightened scrutiny of the quality of Boeing's planes. The aircraft manufacturer has come under the spotlight following repeated quality assurance lapses.

On Wednesday, the head of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said in a Senate hearing that she was considering surveying every Boeing employee about the company's safety culture.

"I don't think there's anyone at Boeing, from Dave Calhoun down, that doesn't want to know what happened. They want to know, and they want to fix it, and we're there to help," NTSB chief Jennifer Homendy said.

Representatives for Boeing, Spirit, and the FAA did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Bomb disposal experts of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine have retrieved a Kh-101 missile warhead in the Vyshhorod district of Kyiv Oblast.

Source: State Emergency Service on Telegram

Details: "Bomb disposal experts of the Mobile Rescue Centre of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine retrieved a warhead of a Kh-101 missile in Vyshhorod district. It no longer poses a threat to local residents."

More details: The rescuers urged Ukrainians to always react to air-raid warnings and go to shelters immediately. Citizens are also required not to film the combat efforts of air defence systems and not to approach missile debris or explosive items.

In case of an emergency, civilians are urged to dial 101 immediately.

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Bomb threat at San Leandro school leads to nearly 1,000 students, staff evacuated

(KRON)  Authorities received a call about a bomb threat Thursday afternoon at John Muir Middle School in San Leandro, the Alameda County Fire Department said. The call came around 1:50 p.m. when students were being dismissed from school.

The call led to 942 students and 42 staff members being evacuated, authorities said. They were directed to go to Cherry Grove Park.

An Alameda County bomb squad is headed to the school as a precaution. After Alameda County Sheriffs Department explosive detection dogs searched the school, no bomb device was found.

Celebration to be held for opening of world-renowned Noe Valley toilet

Authorities deemed the school campus safe and all clear at 4:15 p.m., according to ACFD.

John Muir Middle School is located at 1444 Williams St. in San Leandro.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Boris Johnson says standing as MP 'unlikely in short-term' but doesn't rule it out

Boris Johnson has said it is unlikely he will stand as an MP again in the short term but also refused to rule out getting involved in front-line politics again.

The former prime minister spoke to an audience at Georgetown University in Washington.

Asked about a potential return, he said: I think its unlikely in the short term. I think the only circumstances in which anybody should stand for election is if they have something to contribute.

Mr Johnson was MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip until he resigned last year.

At the time he said this move was for now, in response to investigations carried out by the Privileges Committee - something Mr Johnson called a witch hunt. Almost a year before that, he stood down as prime minister during controversy over how he handled the pandemic.

Much of this was about Downing Street holding Covid parties while its regulations stopped people from working, seeing their families or saying goodbye to loved ones who died.

Mr Johnson has called a report into his handling of Covid a kangaroo court.

The 59-year-old also spoke to the audience about global politics.

He said that it would be a catastrophe if Vladimir Putin was able to seize Kyiv.

Mr Johnson added that he was praying Republicans blocking $60billion of funding for Ukraine would allow it to go through.

He said that Putin taking control of Ukraine would be a reverse bigger than Vietnam because this would be NATO, after 75 years of success, that had failed for the first time in a European war.
Boy killed in road rage shooting on way to kindergarten, officials say. Man sentenced

Nearly three years after a 6-year-old boy was killed in a road rage shooting as his mother drove him to kindergarten, a man has been sentenced to prison, California prosecutors say.

Marcus Anthony Eriz, 27, was sentenced to 40 years to life in prison on Friday, April 12, a spokesperson for the Orange County District Attorneys Office told McClatchy News in an email.

I am so sorry for ever hurting him, and the pain he went through because of me, Eriz said at his sentencing hearing, ABC 7 News reported.

A jury convicted Eriz of second-degree murder in January in relation to Aiden Leos death, according to a news release from the district attorneys office. He had pleaded guilty in June 2021 shortly after his arrest, according to CNN.

The district attorneys office spokesperson said information for Erizs attorney was not immediately available.

The heartbreak of a parent losing a child is so overwhelming that no word exists to describe it, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said in the release. Six-year-old boys should be playing outside in the sunshine, soaking in all the magic and wonder that is boyhood, not lying dead in a tiny, child-size coffin because a man he never met decided to execute him for no conceivable reason.

As Aidens mother drove down the 55 Freeway in Orange County on May 21, 2021, en route to his school, she flipped off a driver who cut her off, prosecutors said.

She then heard a large noise and heard her son say, ow, prosecutors said.

She pulled over, got her son out of his car seat and called 911, prosecutors said.

Please help, she said repeatedly to the dispatcher, the Los Angeles Times reported. Hes bleeding to death. ... Im on the freeway.

Aiden later died at a hospital, prosecutors said.

He meant the world to me, and it feels like my life is over, his mother, Johanna Cloonan, told ABC News shortly after her sons death. That was my baby. Ive never, never thought pain like this could exist.

John Cloonan, the boys uncle, told the outlet that Aiden was a beautiful, beautiful soul.

The California Highway Patrol searched across Southern California for the shooter in a 2018/2019 Volkswagen SportWagen, according to the office.

Weeks later, CHP arrested Eriz and the driver, Wynne Lee, on June 6, 2021, prosecutors said

Lee was charged with one felony count of accessory after the fact and one misdemeanor count of having a concealed firearm in a vehicle, prosecutors said.

Lee, who is out of custody on GPS monitoring after posting $100,000 bond in July 2021, is expected to appear in court again on April 26, the district attorneys office spokesperson said.

Reward raised to $200,000 for arrest in road rage shooting of California 6-year-old

Mommy, my tummy hurts. 6-year-old dies in road rage shooting, California police say

Toddler watches as dad kills 1, wounds 5 in road rage shooting, CA prosecutors say
KYODO NEWS - Apr 12, 2024 - 22:44 | World, All

China's top legislator Zhao Leji, ranked No. 3 in the ruling Communist Party's leadership, vowed strengthened ties with North Korea at a ceremony held Friday in Pyongyang as part of events to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, Chinese state-run media said.

Zhao, who is on a three-day visit to North Korea through Saturday, is the highest Chinese official to visit the neighboring country since President Xi Jinping traveled there in June 2019. The chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee may meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

At the ceremony, Zhao expressed Beijing's willingness to deepen strategic mutual trust and boost exchanges and cooperation, while Choe Ryong Hae, head of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly, similarly conveyed Pyongyang's eagerness to further strengthen bilateral ties.

On Thursday, Zhao and Choe witnessed the signing of bilateral cooperation documents, including reciprocal visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders, according to China's official Xinhua News Agency.

In his talks with Choe, Zhao echoed Xi's repeated remarks that China attaches "great importance" to the two countries' traditional friendly and cooperative relations and pursues an "unwavering strategy" to maintain, consolidate and develop them, Xinhua said.

North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said a welcome banquet was held Thursday evening for Zhao at the Mansudae Assembly Hall. Choe said in his speech that he believes bilateral cooperation will be substantially boosted in all fields, including politics, economy and culture, to "add new vitality" to the relationship.

China is North Korea's closest and most influential ally in economic terms. The two countries established diplomatic relations on Oct. 6, 1949.

Speculation is growing that Kim may visit China later this year to mark the anniversary.

Related coverage:

Japan, U.S., South Korea hold maritime exercise in East China Sea

Japan, U.S. leaders vow to boost security alliance amid China rise

South Korea plans 3-way summit with Japan, China in May
Bradenton man pleads guilty in January 6 US Capitol attack. His parents were there too

A Bradenton man pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

John Anthony Schubert III, 47, pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia on Thursday to a felony offense of assaulting, resisting or impeding law enforcement officers, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida.

Schubert will be sentenced on July 11 by U.S. District Judge Christopher R. Cooper, according to a news release.

Prosecutors say Schubert was part of the initial breach of police barricades just before 1 p.m. on Jan. 6 at the Peace Circle on Pennsylvania Avenue and 1st Street NW.

Despite the area being closed to the public that day and blocked by fencing, prosecutors say Schubert and others breached the police barricades in this area and made their way to West Plaza.

Once in West Plaza, prosecutors say Schubert joined a large group of rioters fighting with law enforcement officers.

Bradenton man guilty after US Capitol riot

The law enforcement officers were struggling to prevent rioters, who heavily outnumbered them, from getting closer to the Capitol building, according to a news release.

Video footage appears to show Schubert pushing and shoving at least one law enforcement officer, the FBI wrote in an arrest warrant.

Schubert also attempted to punch the officer and only retreated from the fighting after he was sprayed with a chemical irritant, according to the release.

Prosecutors say Schubert then went to the Upper West Terrance and entered the Capitol building at around 2:21 p.m. by climbing through a broken window next to the Senate Wing Door.

Once inside, the release says Schubert helped his parents climb through the same broken window a minute later.

The group then went to different locations inside the Capitol, including the Rotunda and Statuary Hall, before Schubert exited the building at approximately 2:43 p.m. through the East Front House Door, prosecutors said.

Schubert was identified in a photo shared by the FBI, the Department of Justice previously said.

Evidence obtained by the FBI appears to show John Schubert III, of Bradenton, outside of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, according to an arrest report.

Over three years after the Jan 6. riot, the Department of Justice says around 1,400 people have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the U.S. Capitol breach.

Around 450 people have been charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding law enforcement officers, with more than 120 individuals using a deadly weapon or causing serious bodily injury to an officer, according to the Department of Justice.

Around 140 police officers were assaulted on Jan. 6 at the Capitol, including about 80 from the U.S. Capitol Police and 60 from the Metropolitan Police Department, the Department of Justice says.

Bradenton man joined Jan. 6 attack with parents

Schubert was arrested on Oct. 4, 2023, in Bradenton, the Bradenton Herald previously reported.

Schuberts parents, Amy and John Schubert Jr., were also previously arrested, charged and convicted for their role in the Jan. 6 insurrection.

The couple from Crest Hill, Illinois, were arrested on July 26, 2021, and charged with knowingly entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, according to the Department of Justices Website.

The two were identified after an anonymous tip submitted to the FBI in the form of YouTube video that showed people within the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6.

In the video, one of the people inside the Capitol wore a jacket with a logo on the back that read Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 422 Joliet IL, according to a criminal complaint.

The FBI then managed to find six Google accounts that were tied to the 815 Joliet area code and were geolocated to the U.S. Capitol building on that date, the Bradenton Herald previously reported.

One of the six names was Amy Schubert, according to the criminal complaint.

Both Amy and John Schubert Jr. took plea deals and were sentenced to 18 months probation, fines and 100 hours of community service, according to court documents.

Other Manatee County residents charged

Two other men with ties to the Bradenton area were arrested for taking part in the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol.

Adam Johnson, a 38-year-old Parrish man, became one of the most recognized rioters at the Capitol thanks to a viral image of him carrying Nancy Pelosis lectern. He took a plea deal and served 75 days in prison, the Bradenton Herald previously reported.

Daniel Lyons Scott, a 30-year-old man who was identified as a Bradenton resident at the time of his arrest, was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to felony charges, including assault. Investigators identified him as one of the first members of the mob to initiate contact with law enforcement on the Capitol steps before the first breach of the building.

Scott was a member of the far-right extremist Proud Boys group and went by the nickname Milkshake, according to prosecutors.

Schuberts case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section, with assistance from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida.

The investigation was overseen by the FBIs Tampa and Washington Field Offices, which identified Schubert in a BOLO or be on the lookout alert. The Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department also assisted in the investigation, according to the release.
Bradenton man who stormed the Capitol with his parents on Jan. 6 pleads guilty

BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA)  A Bradenton man accused of storming the Capitol with his parents on Jan. 6, 2021, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting a police officer.

John Schubert, III, 47, was caught on camera helping his parents break into the Capitol building as Congress met to certify the electoral votes in the 2020 Presidential election.

Previous report: Bradenton man stormed the Capitol with his parents on Jan. 6, DOJ says

His parents, Amy Schubert and John Schubert Jr., pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of trespassing and disorderly conduct in 2021, two years before their son would face charges of his own. The Illinois couple was sentenced to 18 months of probation, $500 in restitution and 100 hours of community service, on top of a fine, according to a report from Nexstars WGN.

Photos of Schubert and his father obtained from Amy Schuberts Google account (DOJ)

CCTV footage of Schubert in the Capitol rotunda. (DOJ)

Schubert (circled in red) in the Upper House Door area. (DOJ)

Schubert (circled in red) helping his parents climb through a broken window into the Capitol. (DOJ)

Schubert climbing through a broken window into the Capitol. (DOJ)

Screenshots from YouTube video showing Amy Schubert wearing jacket with Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 422 Joliet IL logo (DOJ)

Federal agents identified Schubert as a man who appeared in several photos on his mothers Google account. The photos matched security camera and witness footage that appeared to show Schubert walking through various locations at the Capitol.

Outside the building, Schubert was part of a group of rioters who clashed with police. Officers were heavily outnumbered, according to court documents.

Schubert, circled in red, approaching a police line. (DOJ)

Schubert outside of the Capitol building. (DOJ)

Schubert, circled in red, outside of the Capitol building. (DOJ)

Schubert, circled in red, outside of the Capitol building. (DOJ)

He was shown on camera shoving a police officer and attempting to punch them. He entered the Capitol building by breaking a window and helped his parents climb inside.

Schubert was arrested on Oct. 4, 2023 in Bradenton.

On Thursday, Schubert pleaded guilty to a felony offense of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. He is due back in court for his sentencing on July 11.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Bridge over I-70 to be closed next few months in Brookville due to road work

A bridge over Interstate 70 will be closed for the next several months in Brookville due to road work.

>>Firefighters respond to house fire in Riverside

The Brookville Salem Road overpass at Interstate 70 is closed starting today and will stay closed for the next 120 days.

The closure is necessary to reconstruct the bridge deck, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation.

The Brookville Fire Department wrote on social media that detour signs are in place.

OHDOT has listed these detours:

For those traveling south, drivers can take State Route National Road to Brookville-Phillipsburg Road to Albert Road.

Drivers going north can Albert Road to Brookville Phillipsburg Road to State Route 49.

We want everyone to take a moment and remind your friends and loved ones to take extra driving precautions when driving anywhere near this closure and the roadways used for the detour, the department said.




Britain to equip ships with lasers to take down drones from 2027

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's defence ministry on Friday said it would install lasers on warships designed to cheaply shoot down drones from 2027, five years earlier than previously expected, under reforms designed to speed up the deployment of new technology.

WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

Britain's Ministry of Defence (MOD) said that the lasers could fire at any target visible in the air at the cost of around 10 pounds ($12.52) a shot, and had equivalent accuracy to hitting a pound coin from a kilometre (0.62 mile) away.

The DragonFire lasers had previously been expected to be rolled out from 2032, and can use an intense beam of light to cut through a target, the MOD said, meaning it could prove to be a long-term low-cost alternative for shooting down drones.

KEY QUOTE

"In a more dangerous world, our approach to procurement is shifting with it ... our widespread reforms will deliver the latest kit and weaponry for our Armed Forces faster," Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said in a statement on the laser, known as DragonFire.

"DragonFire shows the best of the UK at the forefront of military technology, and we will not delay in getting it in the hands of our military to face down the threats were facing."

CONTEXT

The laser is a cost-effective way of targeting drones, which are being used in modern warfare as a cheap way to take out expensive military targets that cost many times more than the drones themselves.

While drones can destroy high-tech weapon systems, it can also be expensive to shoot them down. For instance, the Sea Viper missiles used by Britain to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea each cost an estimated 1 million pounds ($1.26 million) at least.

($1 = 0.7961 pounds)

($1 = 0.7988 pounds)

(Reporting by Alistair Smout; Editing by Tomasz Janowski)
A former Kentucky county official has pleaded guilty to two criminal charges, according to Attorney General Russell Coleman.

Shanna Oliver, who resigned as county clerk in Owsley County on March 31, pleaded guilty Friday to one charge of misuse of confidential information, a Class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison, and one charge of second-degree official misconduct, a misdemeanor.

The plea deal bars Oliver from ever running for the clerks job or working in the office, Coleman said in a news release.

Owsley County voters hired their County Clerk to do a job, and she has broken the public trust, Coleman said in the release.

Detectives from the Attorney Generals Office investigated the case.

The indictment in the case charged that Oliver refused to deliver public records from her office to the Kentucky Department of Vehicle Regulation, and that she failed to do her duty by not sending paperwork on the purchase of a trailer to the department.

Oliver admitted that over a period of about two years, she didnt submit over 500 applications for vehicle titles to the state, meaning the owners did not receive their titles, according to the release from Coleman.

Olivers attorney, Thomas P. Jones of Beattyville, said that if Circuit Judge Thomas Wingate approves when Oliver is sentenced in May, she would be placed on unsupervised probation.

Jones noted that some of the titles Oliver was charged with not sending to the state were on property she and family members owned.

He also stressed that there was no money missing from Olivers office.

Oliver, 41, worked as a deputy under the prior Owsley County clerk, Sid Gabbard, who resigned in June 2013 and entered a plea on charges of filing false tax returns and abuse of public trust.

A judge probated Gabbards eight-year sentence as part of an agreement for him to pay delinquent taxes and $61,118 in restitution.

Oliver was appointed to replace Gabbard and had held the office since.

She has faced several critical audits, including one released in 2020 that said she hadnt completed required reports, hadnt prepared some tax bills on time and hadnt properly reconciled the office bank account.

Another audit released in 2019 said Oliver hadnt prepared franchise tax bills on time, which meant local agencies including the school system, the library and the health department didnt receive tax revenue on time.

County clerks are elected in Kentucky. Their duties include vehicle licensing, preparing tax bills and conducting elections.

Coleman said Owsley County Judge Executive Zeke Little Jr. appointed Austin Bowling to replace Oliver.
BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11)  Residents in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn are on edge after a fatal stabbing outside of the popular bar Catch 22 Sunday morning.

The incident has left many questioning the neighborhoods safety, but community leaders are vowing to keep the streets safe.

NYC DOB inspector allegedly took bribes for closing 311 complaints: Queens DA

PIX11s Cory McGinnis spoke with residents like Paul Deluca, who has lived in Bay Ridge for most of his life. Deluca woke up on Sunday to the news of the stabbing and admits to feeling shaken.

It makes you kind of give a second thought to walking around late at night, Deluca said.

While acknowledging the incident is concerning, Deluca believes its an isolated event. However, he admits to taking more precautions now.

Bay Ridge isnt being overrun by crime, Deluca said. You walk home late at night and you kind of make a point to be a bit more vigilant.

Early Sunday morning, police from the 68th precinct responded to a call of a stabbing at the 72nd Street bar. Officers arrived to find the victim, 37-year-old Daryl Dawkins, with a stab wound to the torso. Paramedics rushed Dawkins to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Detectives believe Dawkins was stabbed after being involved in a dispute over his bill and being thrown out of the bar. The bar itself has a reputation for attracting a rowdy crowd.

Josephine Beckman, the District Manager of Community Board 10, expressed the communitys outrage. Yes, the community is understandably upset, Beckman said.

Beckman emphasized that despite this incident, Bay Ridge is overall a safe community. However, following the stabbing, concerns have been raised regarding late-night noise disturbances and quality-of-life issues associated with the bar.

According to Police Department data, the latest statistics show a decrease in crime across the 68th Precinct, which encompasses Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, and Fort Hamilton.

A statement from Council Member Justin Brannans office reads in part: We are confident the NYPD will bring this murderer to swift justice. Bay Ridge values and respects businesses that value and respect the safety of their neighbors. Senseless violence and wanton brutality must never be normalized.

While the investigation continues, the chilling effect of the incident remains. Resident Paul Deluca expressed his unease. It just kind of makes you keep in mind that anything could happen really fast, Deluca said.

The police are still searching for suspects. Anyone with information that can aid in the investigation is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Neighbors in West Nashville will have to wait even longer for Brookmeade Park to reopen, and theyre frustrated with what they call a lack of communication from leaders with the Metro Parks and Recreation Department.

Brookmeade Park closed in January 2023 for repairs and restoration after the decades-old homeless encampment was cleared the month prior, thanks to residents advocacy and persistence in pushing the city to find housing for those who lived in the park.

Brookmeade Park was expected to reopen as early as May 1.

PREVIOUS: Brookmeade Park neighbors say unhoused already trying to move back in as city works to restore area

However, due to a laundry list of repairs that still need to be completed  including painting, power washing, and installations, according to Metro Parks  the park will now open in the first quarter of 2025.

Tim Tomes, Reclaim Brookmeade Park board member and a neighbor who worked to clean the park, found out about the delay from News 2.

Why [the Parks and Recreation board] couldnt let us know, that is beyond us, Tomes said. We dont understand why we are kept out of the loop on everything.

Last year, the city paid the design firm, Gresham Smith, $172,000 to create a master plan to reopen Brookmeade Park. Representatives with the firm presented the plan during a September 2023 Parks and Recreation board meeting, which included restoring the parking lot and signage, removing graffiti and invasive weeds, and replacing the wooden lookout.

Hermitage neighbors worry about new tents popping up as city works to close large encampment

Tomes said the design firm only asked for any public input after the master plan was presented.

This is a beautiful piece of property over here, Tomes said. It was given to the city to be used as a greenway and park in perpetuity, so we wanted maybe some picnic tables, something to draw the community in, because its such a beautiful area.

During a September 2023 Metro Parks and Recreation board meeting, board member, Pete Delay, sympathized with the neighbors and called the Brookmeade Park restoration process inordinately slow.

Seven months later, Tomes said not much has changed.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County

Every time we drive by here and see what little progress has been made, its very frustrating because its our tax dollars that are being spent on this, and we really dont feel like our tax dollars are being spent the right way, Tomes said. At times, it really gets you very angry because its like, What are you doing? Whats going on?'

As of this January, the city had spent $474,000 of its $1.2 million budget to restore Brookmeade Park.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
GREEN BAY  Even though Carrie Poser has been analyzing homelessness data since 2015, she was startled when she learned of the 86 unsheltered people living in Brown County this year, nearly doubling the 48 in 2023.

Poser works as the director of the Balance of State Continuum of Care, an association that works with 69 counties, including Brown.

"Eighty-six as a number was startling for me," Poser said Wednesday morning at the Brown County Central Library during the 2024 State of Homelessness in Brown County presentation.

In previous years, the total number of unsheltered people  meaning those sleeping in places not meant for human habitation  rarely veered above 100 across Balance of States 69 counties. But when coalition members conducted point-of-time counts in January, which are unduplicated counts on a single night of people experiencing homelessness, they counted 343 humans living unsheltered in those counties  a 28% increase from 2023.

Brown County made up 25% of that count.

Read report on Wisconsin's homeless: Wisconsin's homeless rate edges upward, after nearly a decade of a downward trend

To put this in perspective, Dane County, which has more than double the population of Brown County, counted 90 unsheltered people in January. Milwaukee County, which has more than triple the population of Brown County, counted between 100 and 130 people in January.

That is the data that Im sharing through other people, to put it on our state departments radar, Poser said. This isnt getting better.

Carrie Poser, director of the Wisconsin Balance of State Continuum of Care, speaks at the State of Homelessness in Brown County 2024 presentation on April 10, 2024, at the Brown County Library in Green Bay. Poser said, "We are the frontline of dealing with people that are experiencing homelessness.

Wednesdays presentation, which also included an update from blueprint implementation project director Lydia Van Thiel on the Greater Green Bay Blueprint to Prevent and End Homelessness, demonstrated the need for more affordable housing at a time when the homelessness trends are worsening. Presenters also shared the four phases theyre working on, through a series of Blueprint tasks, to get people struggling with homelessness permanent residence.

Heres what to know about Wednesdays presentation.

How many people in Brown County are experiencing homelessness?

In Brown County alone, 616 people are experiencing homelessness, whether that means being unsheltered, living in emergency shelters or transitional housing, or people being served through victim service providers.

Between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, for every 10,000 Brown County residents, 77 experienced homelessness. Thats more than twice the states rate over the same timeframe: for every 10,000 Wisconsin residents, 35 experience homelessness.

At the same time, households with children are increasingly being referred to the Coordinated Entry system housed within the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), which reached 38% of all referrals in 2024. Thats nearly 10 percentage points higher than last year and the highest its been since at least 2020.

People with kids between the ages of 25 and 34 are referred to the Coordinated Entry system more than people without kids that same age, with 49% of households with kids compared with 19% of households without kids in that age group.

Black households with children are by far the most impacted group referred to the Coordinated Entry system, representing 35% of all households with children in need of services. Black residents make up just 3% of Brown Countys population, but are 14 times more likely to experience homelessness than Brown Countys white population.

Even with such a disparity, just 22% of Black people experiencing homelessness are currently entering the Coordinated Entry system.

Additionally, more younger and older people are experiencing homelessness in recent years, which is of particular concern for Poser, who said our current systems arent designed to accommodate elderly populations.

Contrary to some assumptions about where homeless people are coming from, Poser made it clear that 93% of all people served in shelters, street outreach and transitional housing in 2023 were from Brown County.

How long and how often are Brown County residents experiencing homelessness?

Between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023, the average length of time that someone in Brown County is homeless is a little more than 83 days, an 8.5% increase from 2021 to 2022.

The most common length of time that people stayed in Brown County shelters was between 91 and 180 days, which served 313 people.

In observing recurrences, 33% of people who left emergency shelters between 2022 and 2023 experienced homelessness again. During that same, a little more than 12% of people who found permanent housing returned to homelessness.

Nearly 26% of people exiting emergency shelters and rapid rehousing programs found permanent housing. A little more than 98% of people in permanent supportive housing found permanent housing.

The need for affordable housing is also about building more housing of all kinds, Poser says

John Searles, a member of the Greater Green Bay Regional Council to Prevent and End Homelessness, told the Press-Gazette that the state needs to create about 120,000 housing units for working families and seniors to close the housing gap.

The answer isnt to shuttle people experiencing homelessness out of the city or even into shelters, although the latter is a temporary solution, Poser told the Press-Gazette. Right now, shelters are busting at the seams trying to accommodate people, and its an expensive endeavor.

Weve got to get people housed. We've got to get them into permanent solutions, whatever that might be for them, Poser said.

Poser explained that it isnt just a matter of adding affordable housing units. Its about not having adequate housing for a variety of different sectors of a given community.

An example Poser often gives people to explain this is a familiar one: empty nesters living in a house too big for them might be looking to downsize, but theres no place for them to go with their retirement plans, so they stay put since the house is paid off. But that means a growing family cant find a bigger house to move to from their starter home. And that means people who are renting and looking to afford a starter home cant find upward mobility. Which then means someone in need of affordable rent has nowhere to go.

So that cycle, in every community, seems to be broken in one of those spots, Poser said. People get really frustrated that these big fancy apartments are going up. But it's like, no no, you need those too, because you need people to get out of the typical rental market to make space for our clients.

Poser is referring to an economic phenomenon known as "filtering," which creates a chain of housing opportunities and is generally accepted among economists as a mechanism for filling the gap in housing needs. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, for every 100 new market-rate apartments, about 70 new units open for renters in lower-income neighborhoods within five years.

In order to solve the homelessness situation for the 447 households currently in the Coordinated Entry system, Poser said what's needed are 63 more units of permanent supportive housing, 241 units for rapid rehousing with intensive case management to address substance use and behavioral health challenges, and 133 units for rapid rehousing, which requires a lighter touch.

Lydia Van Thie' of The Greater Green Bay Blueprint to Prevent and End Homelessness updated coalition partners on where things stand in Brown County on Wednesday at the Brown County Central Library in Green Bay.

Greater Green Bay Blueprint: Phase Zero

Van Thiel, the project director of the Greater Green Bay Blueprint to Prevent and End Homelessness, said they are currently in phase zero of the blueprint project, but, despite its name, thats not nothing.

The group has accomplished 30% of the nearly 100 tasks outlined in its roadmap. Some of that includes:

Golden House, Brown Countys domestic violence shelter, expanded its capacity and operations.

House of Hope and Newcap opened 24/7 drop-in centers for youth, and Newcap opened a shelter for young adults ages 17 to 24.

Journey to Adult Success (JAS) bought a new transitional living facility for youths transitioning out of foster care.

Foundation Rays Youth Services brought on a Host Homes Program for Youth, which provides emergency service to youth who are runaway, homeless, or who do not otherwise have a safe place to stay for the night.

COMSA created a new child care training program for Somali residents to become certified child care providers.

They got 54 new landlords to accept Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8).

They hired more street outreach workers, housing navigators and behavioral health staff.

They expanded access to employment programs with Division of Workforce Developments Worker Connection program

Phase One will begin this year and continue into 2025. Big goals will include:

Minimizing the barriers to new housing developments.

Using more existing housing stock.

Supporting nonprofits owning property and becoming landlords.

Continuing to engage landlords about the importance of accepting vouchers.

Hiring more housing navigators and stability specialists.

We know that if this work is going to be successful long term, and that we're actually going to end homelessness in Brown County, we need to have our entire community supporting the work and the efforts, Van Thiel said.

The Balance of State Continuum of Care is made up of 21 local coalitions who share the goal of ending homelessness. Balance of State is one of four associations in Wisconsin that are part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developments Continuum of Care programs. The others are in Milwaukee, Dane and Racine counties.

To learn more about advocacy and getting involved, head to the Wisconsin State of Balance website: www.wiboscoc.org.

Natalie Eilbert covers mental health issues for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin. She welcomes story tips and feedback. You can reach her at neilbert@gannett.com or view her Twitter profile at @natalie_eilbert. If you or someone you know is dealing with suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text "Hopeline" to the National Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Homelessness shot up 28% across 69 Wisconsin counties. What can be done?
A planned development looking to bring nearly 200 homes to mainland Holden Beach was approved to expand in number of units, but its footprint will remain the same.

At its April meeting, the Brunswick County Planning Board approved the revision, in which the development will add 109 additional single-family units. The planned development was originally approved in March 2022 to bring 186 single-family units to 109 acres of land off Holden Beach Road.

The land where Holden Beach Landing is planned is owned by a limited liability company managed by Ocean Isle Beach Mayor Debbie Sloan Smith. Following the granted expansion, the planned development will now bring 295 total single-family units to the same 109 acres of land off Holden Beach Road and Stanbury Road, across from the Holden Beach Driving Range.

The land is zoned for site build high-density residential and commercial low-density use, which allow densities of 7.3 and 13.6 dwelling units per acre, respectively. The development, as revised, will create a density of 2.7 units per acre. Before the revision, the development would have created a density of 1.7 dwelling units per acre.

More: Brunswick County adds new wrinkle in development approval process. Here's how it'll work.

Lennar Carolinas, LLC, is a national homebuilder founded in Florida in 1954 and the developer of this project. Nathan Pound, representing Lennar, said six of the proposed units are located within a flood hazard zone. The developer, he said, is working to obtain a letter of map revision from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to remove the lots from the flood zone.

Water and sewer services for the development will be provided by Brunswick County, and the roads within the community will be private.

The development, as revised, is expected to generate some 2,823 vehicle trips per weekday. A traffic impact analysis will be required prior to lot recording. The county recently changed the order in which projects that require traffic impact analyses will be submitted. Currently, a traffic impact analysis is conducted after a development application is approved by the planning board, when required. A traffic impact analysis will be required to be completed ahead of planning board consideration.

Brunswick County Planning Director Kirstie Dixon said the development applications that have already been submitted to the county will go before the board without a traffic impact analysis, as they had previously. Dixon said the board can expect a six- to nine-month lull in development applications once the new procedure is fully implemented later this year.

STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the areas latest Brunswick County news by signing up for the Brunswick Today newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.

The planning board unanimously approved the revision request at its April meeting. The approval of the planning board is not an authorization to construct. The project must obtain all necessary federal, state and county approvals and permits prior to construction.

Jamey Cross covers Brunswick County for the StarNews. Reach her at jbcross@gannett.com or message her on Twitter/X @jameybcross.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Holden Beach Landing development approved to add even more homes
Suella Braverman is one of the speakers at the NatCon gathering in Belgium - Paul Grover for The Telegraph

A conservative conference in Brussels hosting Nigel Farage and Suella Braverman has been forced to relocate at the 11th hour after claims of political pressure from the local Left-wing mayor, its organisers have said.

The National Conservatism (NatCon) gathering was due to be held at the Concert Noble next week, with speakers also including Viktor Orban, Vladimir Putins closest ally in Europe.

But Yoram Hazony, the conference chairman, said his team had been told by the venue that it had to pull the event amid political pressure from Philippe Close, the Socialist Party mayor of Brussels.

The conference has now been moved to a smaller forum on the outskirts of the city, outside the jurisdiction of Mr Close.

Mr Hazony, who chairs the Edmund Burke Foundation, the organisation behind NatCon, claimed people within the municipality had been putting pressure on the venue to try to prevent a conservative conference from taking place.

He said a representative for the venues administrator had told the NatCon team they were under pressure from the mayors office.

He added: He said it was political pressure, that they dont want this event in their city. We received very clear, repeated statements by the venue that they were under pressure and they would not be able to comply with our basic needs. And for that reason, we had to call it off a few days before the event.

Nigel Farage is also scheduled to speak at the conference - Paul Grover for The Telegraph

Pressure had been growing on Concert Noble to cancel the conference, including from the Belgian League of Human Rights and the Belgian Anti-Fascist Coordination, according to local reports.

Mr Hazony said there was a problem with how many people we can fit into the smaller venue, but added that he believed the conference would nevertheless be spectacular.

I just think that it is incredible that Brussels aspires to be the capital of a vast alliance of democracies, and they cant tolerate in their own city an event with people who are basically conservatives who are critical of their leftie regime, he said.

Its just astonishing. I mean, if Brussels cant host both sides of the argument, then maybe the capital of Europe cant be in Brussels.

Frank Furedi, the executive director of MCC Brussels, which is helping to organise the event, said: The city of Brussels is occupied by forces hostile to free speech and democracy.

Tragically and shamefully, it has become apparent that the political establishment in Brussels is actively collaborating with Left-wing extremists to prevent the free expression of political ideas and opinions in the city.

Mr Close has been approached for comment.

NatCon organisers said the aim of the event was strengthening the principles of national conservatism in Western and other democratic countries ahead of EU parliamentary elections this year.

Last years conference, which took place in London, featured prominent Conservative MPs including Jacob Rees-Mogg and Miriam Cates.

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REVILLA HOPEFUL OVER HISTORIC TRILATERAL MEET

SENATOR Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. today expressed optimism over the first trilateral meeting between the Philippines, Japan, and the United States held in the White House on April 11.

In a joint statement released by the White House, the "three nations share a firm commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, inclusive, and resilient," welcoming coordination and cooperation with a wide range of partners who share these goals.

"I am very hopeful over this historic summit," Revilla said. "Ang pagpapatibay ng ating relasyon sa Japan at Amerika, at ang pagtutulungan sa pagitan ng ating mga bansa ay maghahatid ng higit na seguridad, kaayusan, at progreso sa ating rehiyon," he added.

The nations' leaders, US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. reiterated their "ironclad" commitments to peace and security in the indo-pacific region, with the US affirming its obligations under its Mutual Defense Treaties with the Philippines and Japan.

"The United States defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad. They're ironclad," Biden said as he began three-way talks at the White House with Kishida and Marcos. "As I said before, any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty."

Revilla welcomed President Biden's announcement of more than $1 billion in U.S. private sector investments aimed at promoting the Philippines' innovation economy, clean energy transition, and supply chain resilience.

The veteran lawmaker also expressed his elation on the launching the Luzon Economic Corridor, which connect Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. "Through this corridor, part of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment-IPEF Accelerator, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States commit to accelerating coordinated investments in high-impact infrastructure projects, including rail; ports modernization; clean energy and semiconductor supply chains and deployments; agribusiness; and civilian port upgrades at Subic Bay," the joint statement said.
By Kent E. Calder, KYODO NEWS - Apr 12, 2024 - 12:54 | All, Japan, World

More and more people expect that Donald Trump is coming back as U.S. president. This prospect has spawned buzz words in Japan using an abbreviation of the former president's name: First it was "moshi Tora" or "if Trump" and then it became "hobo Tora" or "almost Trump." American public opinion polls seem to show that tendency also.

Yet many people worldwide who thought they knew America well are also perplexed. How could Trump possibly come back, after all the scandals and Trump's own caustic, idiosyncratic comments on his Truth Social website, often in the middle of the night?

And with a set of policies -- from the Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin to gender relations -- that seem to contradict so strongly the values and policies for which America has traditionally stood?

Historically also, there has only been one former president in American history to come back for a second term after being initially defeated for reelection -- Grover Cleveland, over 130 years ago. At least five have failed.

In trying to calculate the actual prospects for Trump's return to power, it is important to grasp first the growing fluidity and volatility of American politics today.

Little more than a quarter of American voters belong to either political party. Fully 43 percent of the U.S. electorate are independents, and that share is rising.

So many Americans are capable of shifting suddenly, and future prospects are very hard to predict. They can be sharply impacted by personalities or sudden events.

A second core reality is that Trump has a relatively small, but extraordinarily stable personal political base.

A few weeks ago I was in Rochester, New Hampshire, on a snowy, windy, and bitterly cold winter day before the primary election there.

I arrived at 1:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. Trump rally, and a waiting line had already formed, in minus 10 C temperatures. By 5 p.m. the line was well over a kilometer long. The core Trump backers were fanatically loyal.

In that line, as across America at Trump rallies, were carpenters and truck drivers and shop keepers. There were more men than women -- the gender gap between Trump and President Joe Biden supporters is now between 8 and 10 percentage points.

Across the country, 60 percent of Trump voters are white, without college degrees. And more than 60 percent have passed their 50th birthday.

Most of these Trump supporters, especially blue-collar white working men, think of themselves as victims of economic change, globalization, and sometimes affirmative action.

They remember an America with stronger unions, fewer immigrants, and more prosperity for people like themselves. So Trump's slogan -- "Make America Great Again," or MAGA, emblazoned on millions of red hats across the country -- resonates with deep emotional meaning for a substantial fraction of working America. It binds such people with a fervor approaching that of a cult, as Trump seems to embody their fondest hopes and dreams.

Trump's base, buried in America's heartland, is thus both passionate and parochial. It is not a group that foreign visitors to New York or Washington run into on the street every day, which helps to explain the world's puzzlement both at Trump's strength in 2016 and his seeming momentum now.

This Trumpian base does also resonate with some broader national sentiments, including the crises over drugs and undocumented immigration, now running at the highest levels in American history.

Trump's base, however, is by no means a majority in the country. It is highly unlikely to exceed 46-47 percent of the electorate -- the share Trump obtained in both 2016 and 2020.

Trump's appeals do not extend easily to women with college degrees, for example, who support Biden by 60-40. The suburbs, the coasts, and minorities all tend to be broadly anti-Trump.

And this resistance is strengthened by broad sympathy to Ukraine, and a growing appreciation that the U.S. economy under Biden may well be achieving a soft landing.

Biden's recent energetic State of the Union address also encouraged many doubting supporters about his vitality; Biden's polling support numbers have consequently begun to pick up.

Due to America's electoral-vote system, whereby win-loss calculations for the presidency are made on a state-specific basis, the conflicting pro and anti-Trump streams in American politics converge on a small number of decisive political battlegrounds.

There the strength of both sides is evenly balanced. The most important of these battlegrounds for 2024 will most likely be the "Blue Wall" states in the Upper Midwest (Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania), so-called because their voters are traditionally Democrats, whose symbolic political identification color is blue.

This region is the industrial Rustbelt of America, where large auto firms and steelmakers like Ford Motors and U.S. Steel have been based for a century and more.

In 2016 Trump smashed the Blue Wall, taking all of its three key swing states by narrow margins, thus unexpectedly gaining the presidency. To win again, he will need to do something similar. As in 2016 his prospects -- and those of Biden as well -- will be further complicated by third-party candidacies, particularly that of Robert Kennedy Jr.

Since Trump's political base is narrow, if passionate, it is important for him that third candidates like Kennedy draw away Biden supporters, so that Trump can reach the presidency through a minority plurality.

That prospect was enhanced in late March when Kennedy named Nicole Shanahan, the wealthy former spouse of Google co-founder Sergey Brin, as his vice presidential candidate. With added resources, Kennedy will be better able to extend his appeal in swing states, likely threatening Biden more than Trump.

If Trump is leading in the polls, Biden is 81 years old, and Kennedy is further threatening Biden, then why are we not now at "hobo Tora?" Most importantly, due to undercurrents that are difficult to see from afar.

First of all, the Republicans themselves are quietly yet deeply divided within, with affluent Wall Street and country-club lobbies still bitterly opposed to the populist Trump.

In addition, nearly half the national electorate is independent of parties; Trump also confronts a tsunami of legal and financial difficulties that will deepen in coming weeks. Biden has twice the political funding of Trump at this stage, as well as the active campaign support of two charismatic former presidents: Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

Many of Trump's own former advisors, such as former National Security Advisor John Bolton and even Vice President Mike Pence, are deeply critical of him as well. At this stage, with Trump likely weaker than the polls suggest, the old Japanese political adage still applies in America also: "Issun saki wa yami," or "Inches ahead is only darkness."

(Kent E. Calder is the director of the Edwin O. Reischauer Center for East Asian Studies at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington.)

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OPINION: U.S.-China relations: Filoli summit and beyond
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Protests have broken out at some local school districts over teacher layoffs.

For Buffalo Public Schools, which is facing a multi-million dollar budget shortfall, the district says it has a plan to avoid any layoffs.

The district says its biggest challenge is the loss of $90 million from the American Rescue Plan and other COVID funds. At this point, Buffalo Schools cant promise there wont be any layoffs.

On Wednesday night, a budget update was given at a committee meeting. Under the Governors proposed budget, Buffalo Public Schools would have an $80 million budget shortfall. District officials say theyre trying to match up enrollments, which are down, and total staffing which has grown over the past five years. Enrollment is down 3,400 and staff is up 400 over that timeframe.

When you embark on a strategy like ours, theres all kinds of bumping of positions and you got to deal with union rules and civil service rules, so there could be this isnt a guarantee of no layoffs its to mitigate them greatly, said Jim Barnes, the chief financial officer for Buffalo Schools.

The district says it has a plan to lower the number of layoffs or potentially avoid layoffs altogether: a hiring freeze, cutting vacancies and using savings. Also, the district expects 300 retirements over the next two years, and the plan is to not fill 100 positions.

My perspective all along has been that any reductions if they are absolutely necessary, that they be equitable from Central Office down into our schools, however, its my position that the least amount of impact in reductions be made to those professionals, those teachers, those providers that are providing direct instruction, said School Board member Larry Scott.

But there could be reductions in after-school programming, which would be reduced a couple of days next school year. The district might have to rely on Say Yes Buffalo to make up for the loss of funding. Buffalo Public Schools will vote on next years budget on May 15.

Teachers in some local school districts are concerned about layoffs, like in West Seneca which is facing a $5 million dollar shortfall. Its already been announced that 16 teachers and aides within Hamburg schools have been laid off and seven positions wont be filled. This move resulted in a school protest.

All schools across the state are awaiting to hear what kind of funding they expect to see from the state budget, which is now 10 days late and there could be another budget extender into next week.

Latest Local News

Jeff Preval is an award-winning anchor and reporter who joined the News 4 team in December 2021. See more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
BURDETT, N.Y. (WETM)  A Burdett man has been sentenced to serve time in state prison after he pleaded guilty to selling meth in Schuyler County back in February.

According to the Schuyler County District Attorneys Office, Steven C. Mayo, 45, of Burdett, was sentenced on March 28 by Hon. Matthew C. Hayden to two years in state prison plus one year post-release supervision on the charge of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the fifth degree, a class D felony.

Burdett man pleads guilty to selling meth in Schuyler County

He was also ordered to pay $550 in restitution and forfeited $3,855.

Mayo was arrested following an investigation conducted by the New York State Police into the selling of meth within Schuyler County.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  The busiest subway line in New York City, the No. 6 train, will receive $33 million in new funding, Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer announced on Thursday.

The new funds will allow the MTA to install a stormwater drainage system at Westchester Yard in the Bronx, where subway cars are stored.

How to get an NYC job without taking civil service exam

Millions of New Yorkers and visitors rely on the No. 6 line, so it is essential that we invest in infrastructure to ensure it operates at peak efficiency, Schumer said.

The MTA estimates the No. 6 train carries roughly 140 million passengers per year. The subway line is prone to flash flooding during heavy rainfall, which can lead to train derailments and service delays, officials said.

Every New Yorker knows the 6 is a direct route to major job, medical, educational, and cultural hubs, and when the train is not running on time, it can derail the citys activity, Gillibrand said. This funding will support the installation of a complete stormwater drainage system at Westchester Yard to help keep the 6 lines right on track.

Westchester Yard contains 49 train cars that run up and down the No. 6 train line, officials said.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
U.S. Senate candidate Jason Walton wipes tears from his eye while speaking about his daughter during a Deseret News Editorial Board meeting at the Deseret News office in Salt Lake City on Thursday, April 11, 2024.

Three years ago, any and all convenient political narratives held by self-made millionaire Jason Walton were shattered at the news of his daughters death by suicide.

The world has never looked the same way since, Walton told the Deseret News editorial board on Thursday.

Its like a grenade going off in your soul  constantly, Walton said. Our whole family is changed; were different, theres different priorities, you see the world differently.

Now, as a Republican candidate for Mitt Romneys U.S. Senate seat, the Moxie Pest Control founder and CEO says he intends to reveal Washington, D.C., for what he thinks it truly is  a place where career politicians main focus is enriching themselves financially or politically.

I look at the country and Im deeply concerned and I ask myself, What kind of country are we leaving to our kids? Because it looks to me like were selling their birthright, Walton said. Were saddling our children and grandchildren with generational debt and our politicians seem to be playing some type of political games with our border.

Walton believes Americans are also beginning to see through what he says are the empty promises of the status quo. According to Walton, voters will begin to elect a wave of political-neophyte businessmen  in the mode of Donald Trump  to return the country to the constitutional principles that first made America great.

And, to me, thats not a political talking point, Walton said. Its the thing that made me say, Get up off the couch, and Im going to do something about it. Somebody has to do something about it.

Taking a company  and a country  from scratch to success

By Waltons telling, Moxie Pest Control began as an MBA resume-builder in a garage and grew to become one of the largest pest control companies in the United States because of one rule of thumb: define your success and pursue it through true principles.

In a long shot effort to outrun a field of GOP political veterans  including Rep. John Curtis, former state House Speaker Brad Wilson and Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs  Walton has committed to replicate this principle-centered strategy to restore conservative constitutional governance to the halls of Congress.

The drastic measures required to repair a fractured Constitution can only be made by business leaders like himself, Walton said, who have no strings attached to them, that dont owe political favors to people and who arent seeking political advancement when they get into office.

His independence as a political newcomer with personal wealth will free him to apply the principles that made the United States go from nothing to the greatest civilization ever, Walton said.

If elected, Walton said his agenda would include replacing top GOP leadership with senators he aligns with. His first pick to replace Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell? Sen. Mike Lee. Walton cites Utahs senior senator  who has been his occasional Sunday School teaching companion  as a rare political role model.

Passing Lees REINS Act would be one of his priorities, he said. The legislation would require Congress to approve rules passed by executive agencies that have more than a $100 million impact on the economy.

Walton said getting things done in divided government can often mean just voting no. But beyond tanking spending bills, Walton said business people like him are the ones ready and willing to create a plan to reform the welfare programs driving national debt by privatizing them over time without breaking commitments to those who have already invested significantly into the system.

U.S. Senate candidate Jason Walton meets with the Deseret News Editorial Board at the Deseret News office in Salt Lake City on Thursday, April 11, 2024.

Do Americans want to be led by business people?

Americans feel that the country is at a tipping point that career politicians are unsuited to fix, according to Walton. This is why they will start sending more and more business leaders to Washington and continue to support the former president by the millions, he said.

Hes speaking the minds and wills of people, and people perceive that he has the courage to go and make decisions that other people wont make and theyre business decisions, Walton said. He thinks differently. He doesnt think and act like a politician.

Walton called Trump the most maligned presidential candidate or president in the history of the United States and said he possesses the traits and the knowledge and the skill of what America needs right now.

On the lighting rod issues of Ukraine aid and abortion, Walton is unified with the former president.

Although he thinks Russian President Vladimir Putin is a threat to the world, Walton doesnt support any additional U.S. support for the country Russia invaded two years ago.

Walton said he thinks a significant amount of American resources go missing upon arriving in Ukraine  though he acknowledged he doesnt have evidence to support such a claim. He also thinks it is not in Americas interest to continue spending more than any other country to defend Ukraine and that spending more would not make the world more safe.

Walton echoed Trumps recently announced position on abortion, saying he is pro-life and believes that after the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe v. Wade, abortion law should be left to the states. Elevating the issue to the federal level would allow New York and California to have a say in how abortion is treated in Utah.

Does Walton have a path to victory?

When asked how his campaign is going, Walton said hes having a lot of fun for someone that was disillusioned with politics and has discovered that many state delegates share his ideological views.

The Republican state convention will be held on April 27. Candidates who receive more than 40% of delegate votes, or who have gathered enough verified signatures, will appear on the primary ballot on June 25.

Walton is one of three Senate candidates, including Curtis and Wilson, who have gathered the requisite 28,000 signatures to qualify for the primary. Staggs and conservative political adviser Carolyn Phippen are candidates who have chosen to pursue a convention-only path to the primary.

The GOP nominee who emerges from the primary will face off against the nominees from other registered political parties in the Nov. 5 general election.

Other Republican candidates, besides those already named, include attorney Brent Hatch, certified public accountant Josh Randall, Bookroo founder Chandler Tanner, Brian Jenkins and Jeremy Friedbaum.

The Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate in Utah include mountaineer Caroline Gleich, Archie Williams III and Laird Hamblin.
(CANON CITY, Colo.)  The Canon City Police Department (CCPD) and Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are searching for a 45-year-old man who CBI said went missing under suspicious circumstances.

According to CBI, Shawn Michael Dixon Sr. was last seen on Sept. 12, 2023, in the area of Rudd Avenue and North 11th Street at around 7 p.m., getting out of a taxi near Rudd Park. Dixon Sr. was supposed to meet family later that night at Triangle Park near the intersection of Hazel Avenue and College Avenue.

On March 15, 2024, CCPD requested help from CBI after it was determined the missing man might have been endangered at the time he disappeared.

Dixon Sr. is described as about 62, around 190 lbs with blue eyes and dark brown hair. CBI said he does wear contacts or glasses but was not believed to have them at the time of his disappearance. The missing man is also said to have an injury to the right ankle and was limping. Dixon Sr. also has tattoos which can be seen in the provided photos.

Courtesy: Photo provided to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation by Sarah Baca

Courtesy: Photo Provided to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation by Sarah Baca

Cases involving missing adults who are also homeless are both troubling and difficult to investigate. Individuals in this segment of society are at risk of so many challenges out there, and they often move quite frequently, blend into their communities effectively, and actively avoid contact with law enforcement for a variety of reasons. The fact that they often have no identification, bank accounts, or credit cards, and known cell phones becomes an obstacle for law enforcement to track an individual. Were hopeful by including CBI that we can determine Mr. Dixons location by expanding awareness in the extended communities and state resources, said Canon City Police Chief John Schick.

Anyone with additional information about Dixon Sr. is asked to contact the tip line at (720) 254-1331 or email cdps_shawndixonsr_tipline@state.co.us.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
Authorities in Southern California are looking for a man who was caught on surveillance video allegedly kicking a small puppy.

The Anaheim Police Department said the alleged abuse happened around 8 a.m. on April 7, near Interstate 5 and Brookhurst Street, FOX Los Angeles reported.

NEW YORK ANIMAL RESCUE SAYS SURRENDERED BLOODHOUND DOG IS LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME: MEET DUKE

An animal abuse suspect is being sought for allegedly kicking a small puppy.

The man is spotted on video walking from a street corner and down a berm. He's seen holding the dog in one hand and a bicycle in the other. As he walks toward a drainage ditch, the dog is heard making a noise.

The man drops the bike and then throws the dog before kicking the animal, the report said.

Off camera, the dog is heard wailing as the man allegedly repeatedly kicks the animal. Authorities were searching for the man and the puppy.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

He was described as 5-foot-10, around 180 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes.





Original article source: California animal abuse suspect allegedly caught on video kicking puppy
California saw a surge in abortions after Dobbs. Providers are bracing for more

Abortion rights supporters gather near the Texas Capitol after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade on June 24, 2022. (Eric Gay / Associated Press)

After the Supreme Court overturned the Roe vs. Wade decision in 2022, jeopardizing abortion access for millions nationwide, California emerged as a "hot spot" and saw a surge in procedures  an influx probably due in part to out-of-staters facing new restrictions and looking for care.

Tuesday's decision by the Arizona Supreme Court that aims to impose a near-total abortion ban in the neighboring state has put Southern California providers on alert and reignited leading state Democrats' efforts to provide a "safe haven" for reproductive rights.

"We stand with the people of Arizona, and all those who live in states that have enacted dangerous abortion bans and restrictions. No matter what comes, we remain steadfast in our resolve to protect and expand access to safe and legal abortion care for all," said Darrah DiGiorgio Johnson, president and chief executive of Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest.

The regional Planned Parenthood operates clinics in Imperial, Riverside and San Diego counties, where 10% of patients are from outside California. Arizonans were already traveling to California for abortion, because before this week's ruling the state banned abortions at 15 weeks, but DiGiorgio Johnson said they are now in "an even more precarious position."

The latest decision reinstated a law from 1864 that bans abortions except when the woman's life is at risk. Advocates are leery of what is to come nationally if Donald Trump is reelected president and if the Supreme Court rules to ban mifepristone, the prescribed, at-home drug used in the vast majority of abortions.

"Its too soon for us to know exactly what this ruling will mean for us," DiGiorgio Johnson said of the Arizona decision, but said staffers are taking "necessary steps" to ensure they're ready to support a potential influx.

Abortion data can be hard to pin down, as advocates warn of undercounting because of patients who decline to share information over privacy concerns. However, some research has shown surges in California after the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs vs. Jackson decision two years ago, which rolled back federal abortion protections.

In May 2022, a month before the Dobbs decision, California reported 13,680 abortions, according to national data from the Society for Family Planning. In May 2023, that number climbed to 15,550.

California joined Illinois and Florida as the states with the largest cumulative increases in abortion over the 15-month span after Roe was struck down, according to the report. The numbers have fluctuated, peaking at more than 16,000 in March 2023, according to the report, which tracked abortions in the state from April 2022 to September 2023.

Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California reported that medication abortions by their clinics increased by 18% statewide from June 2022-23.

In another report, the Guttmacher Institute  a nonprofit research organization that supports abortion access  estimated that more than 5,000 abortions were provided to patients traveling to California from other states in 2023.

California has done more than most states to prepare for a post-Dobbs world. Gov. Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers have dedicated more than $200 million to reproductive healthcare since 2022, launching a state abortion database, covering uninsured abortions and providing funding for logistics such as travel for rural patients.

California voters already approved a ballot measure that secured abortion rights in the state Constitution  a move that supporters in other states are now scrambling to replicate.

Newsom slammed the Arizona court decision, chiding the ruling for making no exceptions for rape or incest.

"THIS is the 'future' the GOP are fighting for," Newsom said Tuesday on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. "Abortion rights. Civil rights. Voting rights. They want it all wiped away. Remember that in November."

State officials are "working in close coordination" with the Arizona governors office to ensure that residents in that state know they can seek care in California, according to Newsom spokesperson Brandon Richards.

"The State, including the Governors Office, continues to have ongoing conversations at the highest levels around potential action  both proactive and reactive  to ensure Reproductive Freedom remains a reality in California as threats to access continue," Richards said in an email to The Times.

California Republicans have criticized Newsom's focus on red state abortion policies, saying he should stick to the needs of his own state's residents, and have warned against any more spending on the issue as the state faces a multibillion-dollar budget deficit.

Sue Dunlap, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles  one of the largest abortion providers in the country  said concerns about infrastructure and resources for Californians being at risk because of out-of-state need is a "false narrative."

Planned Parenthood Los Angeles saw an approximately 20% increase in abortions after Dobbs, and a majority of those involve California patients. The clinics have long served non-Californians traveling to the city for abortions even before the Dobbs decision, Dunlap said.

"To me, that tells the story of when we increase access, period, it lifts all boats. It creates the opportunity for everyone to get care in a timely way," she said Thursday. "In California over these last couple of years, we've really increased access. We really heightened our awareness."

But the work in California isn't over, she said. Although Newsom has passed laws to support abortion doctors in red states, there are still legal unknowns about interstate policy fights and the fallout of a potential national ban.

Dunlap said that Californians should not take abortion access for granted or downplay decisions on the horizon.

"I have to say as someone who runs the day-to-day operations of an organization that provides a lot of care ... I resent the optimism," she said. "It's our job as healthcare providers to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. That's what's going to make us ensure that we in California are able to take care of the potential surges."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
California College Student, 23, Reported Missing After Phone Found at LAX: 'Very Out of Character'

Sacramento State University student Noelle Lynch was seen leaving an apartment "on foot" without "personal property," per the LAPD

MPIA Noelle Lynch

The family of a 23-year-old college student from California is spreading the word about her disappearance after the Los Angeles Police Department said she left an apartment "without personal property and may or may not be able to identify herself"  and as the family noted that her phone was discovered at LAX.

On April 8, the LAPD revealed in a release that Noelle Lynch was reported missing and last seen just 5 days before when she left an apartment "by foot."

Lynch, who SFGate notes is a Sacramento State University student, "was last seen leaving an apartment building on foot in the 900 block of East Redondo Boulevard in the City of Inglewood" around 5 p.m. [local time] on April 3. Her father, Mark Lynch, told the outlet that Noelle left home in a difficult state of mind" and drove to Southern California on April 1.

The Los Angeles Police Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for an update on April 12.

Mark, who said he "didnt know where she was going," also revealed that his daughter was in a car accident in Los Angeles on the early morning of April 2.

He told SFGate that at least two other vehicles were involved and that Noelle's mother Kellie Lynch then booked her a hotel  before the family drove down toward the area of LAX to meet her.

Kellie told local ABC affiliate KXTV that her child "wasn't hurt in the crash, but her car was totaled."

Los Angeles Police Department Noelle Lynch

Related: Gone Without a Trace: Help Us Find These 10 Missing Children

At 12 p.m. the next day, Mark said that Kellie got a call from Noelle via a strange persons phone," and that the student was mostly not making sense." They say she did not stay in the hotel.

Later that day, Noelle was spotted walking on foot without "personal property," and it was also unclear why she was at the apartment, according to her dad. Kellie added that she later found her daughter's things, including a backpack, at the apartment.

MPIA Noelle Lynch

Her phone was later discovered at an LAX Southwest ticket counter, but Mark told SFGate there is no evidence that his daughter boarded a plane.

All that matters is trying to get her back, Mark told the publication. The more people that can open their eyes, the better.

She always calls, he added. This is very out of character. She has had a tough time but she has always called.



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Los Angeles Police Department Noelle Lynch

Related: American Sailing Couple Disappears in Caribbean. Their Yacht Is Found 80 Miles Away

Noelle, a Sacramento State junior whom her mother calls a "good person" and "caring and kind," is described by the LAPD as around 125 pounds, 5'8 and white with brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen in a dark t-shirt, green military logo sweatpants and white sneakers.

Mark suspects foul play may have been a factor in her disappearance, as the family tells KXTV that the isolation of the pandemic was tough on Noelle and that it was "difficult for her to get back on track." The family also notes that police said they don't expect foul play.

"We want to know that she's OK and get her back and get her help," Mark said.



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A new study shows that California's Latinos are economically stifled by the state's progressive climate policies, which affect industries like agriculture, construction, trucking and manufacturing.

Lead researchers at Chapman University's Demographics & Policy department, including former Democratic state Sen. Majority Leader Gloria Romero, released the "El Futuro es Latino" report this week, first obtained by Fox News Digital. Researchers identified several areas where Latinos  classified by the state's census data  face hardship in the state.

Soledad Ursua, the lead researcher of the project and member of the Venice Neighborhood Council in Los Angeles County, told Fox News Digital that her findings revealed that Latinos are "California's youngest and fastest growing workforce, yet the state's progressive policies have disadvantaged this group by reducing opportunities" because of the state's regulations to achieve its zero carbon goals.

Housing affordability and failures in California's public school system were also included in the report.

DOZEN STATE GOP AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONERS LAUNCH PROBE OF US BANKS OVER ESG INVESTING: 'IT MUST BE STOPPED'

Wind turbines generate electricity at the San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm near Palm Springs, California, as a dust storm blows through the area.

"These industries are commonly associated with what can be best described as a heavily Latino carbon economy, where employment is impacted by such regulations," Soledad said.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

According to the report, Californias policies have "systematically weakened crucial blue-collar sectors" (like construction and agriculture) which mainly consist of Latino workers, "resulting in stagnation or decline" of businesses.

At the same time, environmental regulations  which affect most middle-class Californians  also have contributed to soaring home prices in California, reaching the highest levels in the nation, in turn contributing to California's exodus.

"As more of Californias historically white middle class depart to other states, Latinos are now primed to occupy that void," the report said.

FEWER AMERICANS WANT TO BUY AN EV  EVEN AS BIDEN PUSHES FOR STRONGEST-EVER CLIMATE CHANGE RULES

Democrat California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a press conference on October 6, 2022 in San Francisco, California.

For example, one obstacle for Latino workers is Californias truck ban, which requires that about 55% of delivery vans and small trucks, 75% of buses and larger trucks and 40% of tractor-trailers and other big rigs be fully electric by 2035. By 2045, gas and diesel trucks will be outright banned from being sold in California.

"With about 30,000 trucks registered with the ports, it is the large companies  with deep pockets and big facilities  that are able to make the transition while smaller companies struggle," Ursua said. "Electric trucks, with their huge batteries, can cost over $400,000, and they cannot do long hauls without stopping for long charging periods, undermining the economics of a trucking fleet."

While the state's environmental regulations affect Latino workers, they also heavily impact small farmowners and businesses. In January, a coalition of business groups led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce filed a federal lawsuit against the State of California over its two recently enacted laws forcing companies to disclose climate data.

The Chamber of Commerce  and co-plaintiffs American Farm Bureau Federation, California Chamber of Commerce, Central Valley Business Federation, Los Angeles County Business Federation and Western Growers Association  alleged in the lawsuit that the state laws will force companies to disclose direct and indirect emissions, which can be "nearly impossible for a company to accurately calculate."

Other states have already followed California's truck ban, including Colorado, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Connecticut, Maine and North Carolina.

NEW CALIFORNIA DEMOCRAT BILL WOULD BAN ALL PLASTIC BAGS AT GROCERY STORES

Meanwhile, Republican states are failing in the courts to push back. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit blocked an attempt by Ohio, Alabama, Texas and other Republican-led states to revoke California's authority to set vehicle emission standards that are stricter than rules set by the federal government. The court ruled this week that the states had failed to prove how California's emissions standards would drive up costs for gas-powered vehicles in their states.

"The clean vehicle transition is already here  its where the industry is going, the major automakers support our standards, and California is hitting our goals years ahead of schedule," Democrat Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement Tuesday. "We wont stop fighting to protect our communities from pollution and the climate crisis."

The Associated Press and Fox News' Thomas Catenacci contributed to this report.





Original article source: California's stifling environmental policies harming Latino workers as White middle class flees state: study
David Cameron held a joint press conference with the US Secretary of State on Tuesday - Nathan Posner/Getty Images

Lord Cameron is acting like the British prime minister on the world stage, George Osborne has said.

Speaking on his Political Currency podcast, Mr Osborne said the ex-prime minister had upgraded Britains foreign policy clout since becoming Foreign Secretary in November.

The former chancellor said Lord Cameron was getting the kind of meetings that no normal British foreign secretary would get, citing his recent visit to Mar-a-Lago to meet Donald Trump, the former US president.

Mr Osborne said: On the world stage, Cameron is acting like the British prime minister, which he was, and hes getting the kind of meetings that no normal British foreign secretary would get.

Theres no way that James Cleverly, or Liz Truss before him when she was foreign secretary, would have had dinner with Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago.

The Foreign Secretary made the trip to the Florida residence of Mr Trump, who is hoping to return to the White House, to discuss the war in Ukraine, Nato, and the Middle East earlier this week.

Lord Cameron and George Osborne in 2014, when they were prime minister and chancellor respectively - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Mr Osborne, who was Lord Camerons chancellor, added: Its not just that hes the former prime minister, and so has more presence and clout. Its that hes got real things to say, and hes using the Foreign Office job to push particular things that he cares about.

So on Ukraine, hes delivering quite a hard message to Republicans. His reason for going to see Trump was: Youve got to support Ukraine.

Since Lord Camerons political comeback, questions have been raised as to whether Rishi Sunak risks being upstaged by the former prime minister after bringing him back into front line politics.

Mr Osbornes intervention comes after reports that he was involved in a row with Number 10 over its attempt to influence the appointment of a new director for the British Museum.

Sources close to the process have claimed trustees on the selection panel were instructed by Downing Street to supply the Prime Minister with two names, from which he or his advisers would choose the new director.

Mr Osborne is understood to have rejected Downing Streets demand, saying it went against customary practice and threatened the independence of the British Museum.

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By Tomoyuki Tachikawa, KYODO NEWS - Apr 12, 2024 - 07:29 | All, World, Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida emphasized in a landmark speech to the U.S. Congress on Thursday that the leadership of the United States is "indispensable" for the international order, which has been facing "new challenges" such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Making the first address to the U.S. legislature by the Asian nation's premier in nine years, Kishida also said Tokyo and Washington "carry a large responsibility" in ensuring global peace and prosperity, adding, "The people of Japan are with you" and that the country is the United States' "closest friend."

Kishida's speech to the joint session of Congress, delivered in English, comes as some Republicans have sought to thwart the efforts of Democrats and President Joe Biden to expand foreign aid for Ukraine, which has been under invasion by Russia since February 2022.

Japan, the president of the Group of Seven last year, has pledged to maintain its "unwavering" support for war-torn Ukraine in collaboration with the other advanced economies of the grouping, which includes the United States, Britain, Canada, France, Germany and Italy.

"Without U.S. support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow? Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?" Kishida said.

Addresses given by foreign dignitaries to joint sessions of the U.S. Congress have taken place on special occasions. During Barack Obama's presidency, Shinzo Abe, who was fatally shot in July 2022, became the first Japanese prime minister to make such a speech.

In 2023, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol each addressed the U.S. Congress, with Washington aiming to deepen relations with the two nations amid growing security threats from China and North Korea.

Kishida made the speech, titled "For the Future: Our Global Partnership," amid China's increasing military assertiveness, North Korea's missile and nuclear development, and Russia's war in Ukraine, all of which have been jeopardizing global peace and stability.

"China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan but to the peace and stability of the international community at large," Kishida said.

"North Korea's provocations have impact beyond the region. It has also exported its ballistic missiles to support Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, greatly increasing the suffering of the Ukrainian people," he added.

Touching on his decisions to bolster Japan's annual defense expenditure to around 2 percent of gross domestic product and to acquire enemy base strike capabilities, Kishida said, "Japan is already standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States."

"Uncertainty about the future stability of the Indo-Pacific region caused us to change our policies and our very mindset. I myself have stood at the forefront in making our bilateral alliance even stronger," he added.

Along with Japan, other democracies like South Korea, Australia, India and the Philippines have joined hands to establish a "multi-layered regional framework," where the alliance between Tokyo and Washington "serves as a force multiplier," Kishida said.

He stressed, "Here in this chamber, we should have strong bipartisan support for these efforts."

On the economic front, Kishida said Japan is the biggest direct investor to the United States, as the Asian country's companies have invested about $800 billion and contributed to the creation of some one million jobs there.

"A growth-oriented Japanese economy" should "spur even greater investment in the United States. And we can then help boost the global economy to steer it toward a strong growth trajectory in the years to come," Kishida said.

After concluding his speech, Kishida, the first Japanese prime minister in nine years to visit the United States as a state guest, was greeted with handshakes and autograph requests from U.S. lawmakers. He took office in October 2021.

Kishida lived in New York when he was a child. He said, "Since childhood, I have felt a connection to the United States," adding, "Even though I was the only Japanese student there, my classmates kindly accepted me and helped me immerse myself in a new culture."

Related coverage:

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More than 200 Pomona College students and others shut down a section of College Avenue in front of Alexander Hall, calling on the college to divest from Israel. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian students doubled down on protests at Pomona College Thursday as the elite liberal arts campus is roiled by an intensifying Israel divestment campaign that even harsh disciplinary action against protesters has not deterred.

The demonstrations come less than one week after the campus was rocked when riot-gear-wearing local police arrested 19 people who had occupied the college presidents office.

"It is the worst on campus that it has been in a while," said Ken Wolf, a history professor who has taught at Pomona for nearly four decades and seen activism from rallies against South African apartheid in the 1980s to racial justice demonstrations of recent years.

History professor Ken Wolf has taught at Pomona College for nearly four decades. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

"There is a new generation of students who are protesting more aggressively and anonymously  masked and fully covered up  for their beliefs and there is an administration trying to deal with how to respond that many feel has gone overboard," said Wolf, who is the chair of faculty.

Protesters Thursday gathered outside the Honnold/Mudd Library on campus of the Claremont Colleges, many wearing face masks, sunglasses and keffiyahs or other head-coverings to disguise their identities, some banging on pots and pans while others held signs that read stop funding genocide," and "stop the repression of pro-Palestinian voices."

One by one, students who were arrested last week addressed the crowd and emphasized their desire for divestment.

Read more: 20 Pomona College protesters arrested after storming, occupying president's office

"Im supposed to be completing a thesis right now, but I cant focus on anything but rage since Friday," one said.

For months, pro-Palestinian activists have called on administrators to divest college endowment funds from corporations tied to Israels war in the Gaza Strip and the occupation of the West Bank. The Thursday demonstration was one of several events this week across Claremont Colleges  a consortium of five undergraduate and two graduate colleges where Pomona is the oldest.

At Pitzer College on Thursday, rallygoers called for a boycott of academic programs with Israel, including institutional partnerships. Recently, the college ended an exchange program with the University of Haifa, a request pro-Palestinian activists have made for several years. Pitzer administrators said low enrollment and other factors  not protests  prompted officials to remove the exchange from a "pre-approved" study abroad list.

A student paints over recent vandalism on a pro-Palestinian mural on the side of Mead Hall on the Pitzer College campus . The mural has been vandalized twice since it was created. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

The Pitzer College Council, which includes students, faculty and staff, voted 48 to 19 on Thursday in favor of an academic boycott of Israel. Later, Pitzer College President Strom C. Thacker released a letter to the campus saying he would veto the measure because "I do not support an academic boycott of any country."

The campus climate has become most tense at Pomona, where opposition has grown toward President G. Gabrielle Starr as she struggles to balance policies that support protest and free speech against campus safety concerns and increasingly aggressive protest tactics. The demonstrations have escalated since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, which killed about 1,200 people and took hundreds hostage. Israel's retaliatory war has killed more than 33,000 Palestinians and left 2 million in near-famine conditions.

The tensions at Pomona, with just under 1,800 undergraduates and a 7% admittance rate, is the latest in a series of incidents at high-profile colleges and universities in the U.S. Administrators have recently clamped down on demonstrators at Columbia, Vanderbilt and Cornell universities, saying pro-Palestinian student activists have violated student policies over trespassing and other matters.

The ongoing protests have elevated fears among some Jewish students who say the college has become an unwelcome place.

"Are student activists exporting the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to a small town in California? How will that help bring about just peace in a land thousands of miles away?" said Bethany Slater, the director of the local Hillel, who said she has fielded calls and emails from distraught Jewish students.

Pomona College students walk by Bridges Auditorium on campus, where there has been intense activism recently. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

"It's not a safe space for Jewish and definitely not Israeli students, said Ayelet Kleinerman, a senior at Pomona who is from Tel Aviv and studies neuroscience. "I am all for freedom of speech. Everyone should say what they want, but I don't feel the college is upholding its policies and rules when it comes to students and protest."

Read more: 'Please leave!' A Jewish UC Berkeley dean confronts pro-Palestinian activist at his home

Last week's protest appeared to be the breaking point for Starr.

University officials said that when students from pro-Palestinian groups occupied Starr's office and refused to give their names or college affiliation, she authorized a call to police, who arrived in riot gear and arrested 19.

All of those students now face misdemeanor trespassing charges, and the seven who were from Pomona have been suspended pending an internal judicial review. Some have called on Starr to resign. They are also staging die-ins and walkouts.

After two emergency meetings, two-thirds of the voting members of Pomona College's faculty body supported a motion on Thursday demanding that Starr drop student suspensions and criminal charges. Many also spoke forcefully against calling riot police to the college ever again.

This week, 49 student admissions staff workers  the majority of the student staff  also sent a letter to Starr's office threatening to boycott giving admissions tours. Some students indicated they would continue to work because of financial need but would make clear to prospective undergraduates that "this institution suppresses student voices and is willing to deploy militarized police in riot gear on unarmed, peaceful student protesters."

Starr has said pro-Palestinian student activists have interrupted and harassed tour groups. On the Pomona website, the university has defended her decision to call in police last week, citing "escalating acts of harassment and intimidation carried out against visitors and students by masked, unidentified individuals who refuse to identify themselves."

In a statement last week announcing her plan to arrest students who did not disperse or identify themselves during the sit-in, Starr said protesters have been "actively destructive of the values that underpin our community."

Starr, contacted through Pomona's media relations office, declined an interview request for this article.

A representative from an independent campus watchdog group, Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, suggested Starr's actions are out of the ordinary.

Pomona students Morgan Sydor, left, and Rebecca Allen converse in front of the "free speech wall" that features a Palestinian flag at Walker Beach on the Pomona College campus in Claremont. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

"Students at private campuses tend to have wide free speech rights," said Alex Morey, the foundation's director of campus rights advocacy. "That doesn't mean students can do anything, and there are guidelines  typically around amplification of sounds, safety, blocking entrances."

"But usually there is not such a quick decision to call police or issue suspensions," she said.

Read more: Israel-Hamas war roils UC over the line between free speech and unacceptable behavior

Students have targeted Pomona because it has the largest endowment of the Claremont Colleges  more than $3 billion  and is seen a trailblazer in the group of colleges. In February, the student body conducted a nonbinding vote on whether Pomona should disclose its investments and divest from Israel. Nearly 60% of students voted, and a significant majority of those who participated supported the proposals.

"There are many ways to help heal a broken world. This is not one of them," Starr, who opposed the proposal, said at the time. She said the decision unfairly singled out Israel.

"We have tried every way we can since last semester to get Pomona to do the right thing, to stop supporting genocide," said Kae, a Pomona senior who was a part of the Pomona Divest from Apartheid group arrested last week at Alexander Hall, which houses the president's office. "Instead, they have militarized our campus with police against students who are mostly brown and Black," said Kae, who is Black and Jewish. Kae did not want to use their last name because they were fearful for their safety.

It is unclear if or to what degree Pomona has investments in corporations involved in Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories or the war in Gaza.

Campus safety officers outside Alexander Hall, which houses the president's office, on the Pomona College campus in Claremont. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

In an interview, Jeff Roth, Pomona's vice president, chief operating officer and treasurer, declined to reveal whether there are such investments, citing legal agreements with fund managers that prevent him from such disclosures. But, speaking broadly, Roth said that large endowments would likely have some investment in companies that the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions, or BDS, movement against Israel has targeted.

"If we invest some our our endowment in an index fund of the S&P 500, we have a small piece of largest 500 companies," he said, acknowledging that some of those companies have been targeted by the BDS campaign for selling weapons and other military technology and equipment to Israel.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A 22-year-old man is dead after two cars crashed at the intersection of Kuebler Boulevard and Battle Creek Road SE in Salem late Thursday night.

Authorities said a Honda sedan traveling eastbound on Kuebler turned northbound onto Battle Creek Road as a Mercedes sedan was heading west. The two cars collided and the Honda ended up on the northwest corner of the intersection.

Bob Day permanently named Portland police chief by Mayor Wheeler

When Salem police officers arrived to the scene at around 11 p.m., they found the Hondas driver, David Joel Luna, was already dead.

The second driver, 20-year-old Hunter Dillon Quinn, was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Traffic near the intersection of the crash was affected for roughly three hours while police investigated and cleared the scene.

Truly incredible: 85-year-old kills late-night invader at Idaho home

Electrical power in the area was affected due to the impact from one of the involved vehicles into utility boxes in the area, officials said. Portland General Electric continues their work today. Customers should contact the company directly for updates.

An investigation into the crash is ongoing and no arrests have been made.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Read the full story on The Auto Wire

Car Theft Victim Almost Run Over By Thiefs Accomplice

A man in South Hill, Washington is lucky to be alive after he confronted a thief who was trying to steal his truck. While we understand what the guy did, we also dont recommend going so far.

Dodge Charger stolen from airport parking, found stripped.

NBC News shared footage from the mans surveillance camera on the front of his house, which shows the whole scene play out. It starts with a thief getting into the passenger side of the pickup and the owner receiving a motion alert.

Realizing someone is trying to steal his truck, the guy runs out of his house and pulls the thief out of the pickups cab. Rather than just let the would-be thief run away, he pursues him into the street where a getaway car is waiting.

The truck owner starts manhandling the thief, so the getaway driver backs the car up, angles it just so, and guns it right at the truck owner. Thankfully, the guy ends up on the hood and not under the chassis, taking a ride up into his driveway.

That getaway car collides with the side of the pickup, sending the guy flying. Amazingly, he lands on his feet, unhurt, and takes a photo of the thieves before they speed off.

We get being angry and wanting to pummel someone trying to take your vehicle. But many car thieves carry guns and arent afraid to use them. Thats the scary part you have to consider before confronting them.

Had this guy just been satisfied with chasing the one thief off, that likely wouldve been the end of it. But he pushed it and when push comes to shove, many car thieves arent afraid to use violence to keep from getting caught.

Image via NBC News/YouTube

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Was it carbon monoxide or gas that made OFallon students sick? Neither, says chief

In Reality Check stories, BND journalists dig deeper into questions over facts, consequences and accountability. Read more. Story idea? newsroom@bnd.com.

The 25 students and one adult from St. Clare Catholic School in OFallon who were taken to local hospitals last week didnt fall ill due to a leak of natural gas or carbon monoxide, according to the OFallon Fire Chief.

Rather, they were experiencing psychosomatic symptoms from seeing a classmate faint, hearing adults talk about gas levels and being evacuated, he said.

None of the kids ended up being sick from anything that was occurring at the school. It was all mostly anxiety-related issues as a result of the response, OFallon Fire Chief Brad White said Thursday.

There wasnt any carbon monoxide in the school, and while there were some natural gas leaks found in the kitchen and boiler room, the amount wasnt enough to reduce oxygen levels to a point that would affect human health or pose a fire hazard, he said.

He described the situation as a series of unfortunate events.

A student fainted during morning Mass in the schools gymnasium on April 4, which initiated the entire response that would ultimately include 10 nearby agencies in addition to OFallon Public Safety and Ameren Illinois.

OFallon-Shiloh EMS arrived at the school and requested the help of OFallon Fire Rescue as some additional students started reporting they werent feeling well with symptoms like nausea and light-headedness. The school evacuated students outside and later across the street to the chapel.

When OFallon Fire Rescue arrived, crews began a sweep of the building with carbon monoxide detectors, and none was detected.

A subsequent sweep for natural gas turned up results on the first floor of 100 to 300 parts per million  meaning 0.1% to 0.3% of the atmosphere was natural gas  and leaks were located in the kitchen and boiler room that needed to be fixed.

When Ameren Illinois arrived, technicians and firefighters went through every space in all three floors with detectors, which yielded the same results.

Natural gas is not going to make you sick at that level, White said. Natural gas robs the air of oxygen, but 0.1% to 0.3% is minuscule, he added.

You lose more oxygen smoking cigarettes than that, he said.

The kitchen and boiler room are adjacent to the gym, but it would have taken a lot of gas and a lot of gas flow to reach levels in the gym really needed to rob the oxygen, White said.

In hindsight, responders wouldnt have changed their response as there were gas leaks, but we should have keyed in on the fact that that was not what was actually causing the kids to be ill, he said.

The student who had fainted was legitimately ill and not experiencing a reaction to natural gas, White said.

The conflicting messages later in the day from OFallon Public Safety and Ameren about what caused the incident  the former citing natural gas leaks in the kitchen and boiler room and the latter citing carbon monoxide emissions from a rooftop furnace on the gym  resulted from an internal miscommunication at Ameren Illinois that led to the unsubstantiated furnace theory being cited as the cause, White said.

Ameren Illinois did not respond to requests for comment Thursday.

The school remained closed Friday, April 5, and an HVAC company repaired the gas leaks over the weekend. School officials, the HVAC company, OFallon Fire Rescue and Ameren Illinois all did a walkthrough of the school Sunday and determined that everything was good and students could return Monday.
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR)  The Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital was recognized for its success in supporting Black maternity health by the U.S. News & World Report.

In honor of Black Maternity Health Week (BMHW), U.S. News identified hospitals that were rated High Performing in U.S. News Best Hospitals for Maternity Care, served at least 20 Black patients per year, and had newborn complication rates of less than 2.62%, c-section rates of less than 23.9% or 23.6% among Black patients.

The Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital was recognized among 25 additional high-performing hospitals across 13 states. The Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, in Charlottesville, and Roanoke Memorial were the only two hospitals in Virginia to join the list.

This recognition speaks to our care teams dedication and compassion. We believe that all women deserve high quality, patient-centered obstetric care, and we are focused on health equity as a way to address the national disparities observed in black maternal mortality, said Dr. Isaiah Johnson, the Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

1 in 5 women die from heart disease: Forest woman shares a cautionary tale

April 11 kicked off Black Maternal Health Week to bring attention and action on improving health for Black patients during maternity. According to the CDC, Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women.

Several factors contribute to these disparities including variations in quality health care, chronic conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias.

I think there has been growing awareness of the problem as the data has been better in terms of being more accurate. I think maternal mortality across Southwest Virginia and really the Commonwealth is not where anybody would like for it to be and certainly within our black birthing population we have work to be done, explained Dr. Johnson.

Dr. Johnson says over the last 15 years, the Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital has focused on quality improvement and clearly outlining the type of care that will be provided to patients.

The goal is to have patients receiving the same level of care and the same care pathways regardless of who they are as an individual, shared Dr. Johnson.

BMHW, founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, is held every April along with National Minority Health Month. 2024 marks the 7th annual observation of Black Maternal Health Week.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
Carlos Collins Death: Mississippi Man Remembered After Being Allegedly Killed By Former Cop Hed Filed A Restraining Order Against

Carlos Collins Death: Mississippi Man Remembered After Being Allegedly Killed By Former Cop Hed Filed A Restraining Order Against | Photo: Kouji Okafuji via Getty Images

Social media reactions are pouring in a few folks are remembering the death of a 25-year-old nurse who went to the authorities and said he was being stalked by his ex-boyfriend, who was a former cop.

Police in Jackson, Mississippi, are investigating the death of Carlos Collins, who was found dead in his apartment on Tuesday.

A close source familiar with the investigation told People that Jackson Police had responded to a violent scene at the Tapestry Northridge Apartments, where they discovered Collins, who was shot multiple times and hit with a blunt object. According to Jacksons Clarion Ledger, Collins was a registered nurse from Yazoo City, Mississippi, about 44 miles from Jackson.

On Wednesday, Jackson Police pursued 33-year-old Marcus Johnson, a former Jackson officer and suspect in Collins death, in a car chase that ended 126 miles away in Monroe, Louisiana. He was arrested on charges of murder and shooting in an occupied dwelling in connection to the killing, public information officer Tommie Brown told media outlets.

Collins sister, Alisha Hudson, told People that her brother and Johnson had been dating for about a year, which ended in late 2023. He believed his ex-boyfriend had been stalking him and visited the Jackson Police Department multiple times to report it. Hudson mentioned that Collins had taken legal action by filing a restraining order against Johnson. However, despite his past as a former Jackson Police officer, his behavior persisted.

In my brothers last months, he was living in hell dealing with Marcus, Hudson told People. The Jackson Police Department mishandled his case and downplayed the situation. They didnt care to protect my brother. They protected Marcus.

After their breakup, Hudson said Collins found tracking devices on his car, a friends, and a camera he suspected his ex installed nearby. Once, her brother woke to find Johnson watching him sleep. Collins had taken safety precautions, requested to change his locks multiple times and sought self-defense training from a family pastor.

Hudson remembered when she and Collins were at a local bar celebrating a family members birthday and noticed Johnson seated behind them. She said he became increasingly fixated on her brother over time.

It was obsession, fatal attraction, Hudson said of Johnson. He didnt want anyone else to be with my brother.

Collins mother, Ashla Hudson, told WJTV, I would rather him shoot me. Beat me with an axe. Not my baby. Not him.

Johnson was employed with the Jackson Police Department for eight months before his termination in 2013.

He was separated from JPD pending disciplinary actions leading up to his immediate termination, the department said in a news release obtained by WAPT.

The Clarion Ledger reported more details about Johnsons past, including a 2014 incident when he was arrested and charged with impersonating a police officer at the Palisades Apartments near Jackson State University.

According to the Clarion Ledger, Johnson allegedly issued a fraudulent citation to a female student. Subsequently, he attempted to solicit a hook up from her in exchange for voiding the ticket, as stated in a police report. Additionally, officers discovered that Johnson had a stolen JPD radio and an outdated ticket book. He also used the badge number of a current officer during the incident.

Johnson faced charges related to the 2014 incident, including false pretense, grand larceny and two counts of impersonating an officer.

The 33-year-old is detained at the Richland Parish Detention Center in Rayville, Louisiana, awaiting extradition to Jackson.

Social media is remembering Collins while putting a spotlight on stalking cases reported by men.

RIP Carlos Collins. . You were a smart, motivated young man, became a nurse and got your life brutally taken away. Black Queer Men,let's make this a conversation. It's scary to be in a relationship with someone that has evil intentions. DV affects our community https://t.co/8ohzQH6Ymh  Dionta Williams (Dionta's Black Queer World) (@dionta_wil5593) April 10, 2024

R.I.P Carlos Collins  the system failed you. You deserved so much more in life. #JusticeforCarlos pic.twitter.com/VA55j93Zmz  Count Hityoufromthebackula (@KingAmongst_Men) April 10, 2024

Nobody should have to go through what Carlos Collins went through in the last moments of his life. I will never understand people to a break up or rejection with gross acts of violence. We need to start taking mental health in this country a lot more seriously. Carlos deserves to pic.twitter.com/ggQmq2EUhp  SWEET  HONEY  BUCKIIN (@ItsMicahB) April 10, 2024
TechCrunch

Fidelity Investments, one of the world's largest asset managers, has confirmed that over 77,000 customers had personal information compromised during an August data breach, including Social Security numbers and driver's licenses. The Boston, Massachusetts-based investment firm said in a filing with Maines attorney general on Wednesday that an unnamed third party accessed information from its systems between August 17 and August 19 "using two customer accounts that they had recently established. We detected this activity on August 19 and immediately took steps to terminate the access, Fidelity said in a letter sent to those affected, adding that the incident did not involve any access to customers Fidelity accounts.
Centuries-old shipwreck  with trove of coins  unburied from dry land in Malaysia

In 2020, researchers stumbled upon something unusual on an island off the coast of Malaysia: a collection of rectangular pieces of wood sticking up from the ground.

Intrigued, scientists decided to excavate the site, revealing the remains of a centuries-old shipwreck filled with a trove of coins and ceramics, according to a preprint study posted to Research Square, an open access platform, on April 2.

Though it was found on an island, the landscape at the time of the ships sinking was undoubtedly different, researchers, who are affiliated with various Malaysian institutions, said.

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What are we learning about the past? Here are three of our most eye-catching archaeology stories from the past week.

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Elaborate 600-year-old castle  complete with moat  unearthed in France. Take a look

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Four wooden fragments discovered

This is because the island, known as Pulau Melaka  located just off the coast of mainland Malaysia  is human-made. The sliver of land was reclaimed from the sea to make room for commercial construction projects.

The wrecks remains constitute the first discovery ever where the wood fragments were found in a reclaimed land in Malaysia, researchers said.

The wreck is believed to date to around the 15th or 16th centuries, making it about 500 years old, researchers said.

A collection of coins, including ones from China and Portugal, discovered at the site

Upon excavation of the site  guided by ground-penetrating radar  researchers uncovered a total of 306 artifacts.

Among the objects found were a trove of coins, originating from Malaysia, China and Portugal, revealing the interconnected world in which the ships occupants would have been part of.

At the time, the region served as a bustling maritime hub, connecting the east and west via the Strait of Malacca  a trade route that remains crucial for global trade today.

An intact porcelain bowl (a), fragments of Chinese porcelain (b) and stoneware fragments (c and d) discovered at the archaeological site

Also uncovered were a series of ceramic shards, most of which were in poor condition, researchers said.

Further analyses will be carried out to determine the exact origin and age of the artifacts.

In the meantime, the site needs to be monitored by Malaysian authorities to prevent unwanted incidents, researchers said.

Dozens of medieval burials  including some children  unearthed near lake in France

Divers remove ancient Roman cargo from shipwreck  and find unique carvings. See them

Its still 2016 in this country thanks to its unique calendar system. What to know
By Takuya Karube, KYODO NEWS - Apr 12, 2024 - 08:45 | All, Japan, World

U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for an official meeting in spring, whether by coincidence or design, was allusive and laden with thematics calculated to sustain progress made between the countries even if both men fail to hold onto power later this year.

The summit and a state dinner on Wednesday were held weeks after Washington's iconic cherry trees, gifted by Tokyo over a century ago as a symbol of friendship, reached peak bloom. Cherry blossoms hold diverse meanings in Japanese culture, from new beginnings and hope to the frailty of existence and death, and create an ongoing bond between the U.S. capital and Tokyo.

Biden and Kishida announced a long list of agreements aimed at bolstering the bilateral alliance's deterrence, expanding cooperation on new domains such as outer space and advancing networking with like-minded partners.

"Over the last three years, the partnership between Japan and the United States has been transformed into a truly global partnership," Biden said at a post-meeting press conference with Kishida.

James Schoff, an expert on U.S.-Japan relations, characterized the 11th in-person meeting between them as a "showcase summit" that provided a chance to highlight "the pretty remarkable breadth and variety of activities that the alliance is now engaged in."

The new agreements between Biden and Kishida materialized, first and foremost, against the backdrop of an increasingly assertive China, which the two allies consider a serious security threat.

Of the more than 70 deliverables announced, Schoff, a former Pentagon senior adviser on East Asia and now senior director at Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA, said the most noteworthy is an agreement to start working toward more integrated command and control structures between U.S. and Japanese forces.

Schoff said that "it could potentially be one of the more consequential kinds of lasting improvements to the alliance" maybe more so than when their defense guidelines were updated in 2015 to enable the two forces to act more seamlessly by broadening previous geographical and functional restraints on their cooperation.

"Had this summit happened four months ago, or five months ago, it would have been too early. Four months from now. It's too late," he said, given the context of the U.S. electoral cycle.

Biden also called the initiative, to be taken in conjunction with Japan's planned establishment of a joint headquarters to command its ground, maritime and air forces by March 2025, "the most significant upgrade in our alliance" since it was established more than six decades ago.

The defense and foreign ministers of the two countries will start discussing how to develop a new relationship between the U.S. military and Japan's Self-Defense Forces possibly next month.

Still, the ultimate question that needs to be answered is whether the numerous initiatives agreed upon between Biden and Kishida will be durable as both leaders, each of whom currently faces low approval ratings, are fighting for their jobs.

Biden has to surmount the significant challenge posed by his predecessor Donald Trump in the November presidential election, while Kishida has to overcome discontent at home to win reelection as the ruling party's leader in September.

For U.S. and Japanese officials, the overriding objective of Kishida's trip was to demonstrate, not only to their domestic audience but also to the rest of the world, that Washington and Tokyo are now global partners working to ensure the rules-based international order is maintained.

The officials and political experts alike have said the underlying objective of his visit was to sow the seeds of a sustainable alliance, regardless of which candidate wins the U.S. presidential election and who holds the leadership of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

A senior U.S. official said a multilateral lattice-like strategic architecture that the United States and Japan have been strengthening with their like-minded partners, including Australia, the Philippines and South Korea, will "stand the test of time" but to achieve progress, continued investment is inevitably required.

Nicholas Szechenyi, a senior fellow with the Japan Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Kishida's address to a joint session of Congress on Thursday could be more impactful in sustaining momentum for the deepening cooperation than the initiatives laid out in their statement.

Kishida was given a great chance to explain to U.S. lawmakers and the American public what Japan is doing on a range of policy fronts and how Japan remains dedicated to its relationship with the United States.

"That's important for a city like Washington right now, which, let's be honest, is inward-looking, polarized and increasingly focused on domestic matters in the lead-up to the presidential election," said Szechenyi, who is also deputy director for Asia at the Washington think tank.

He said Japan is able to inspire confidence as it has had a clear strategic direction for about a decade and its profile in global affairs has increased.

"Having this opportunity to set that aside and think a little more broadly about what U.S. interests are in the world and how Japan fits into that is very significant," he said.

Related coverage:

PM Kishida mistakenly says China is Japan's "ally" in Washington

Biden says Japanese national to be 1st non-American to land on Moon

Japan, U.S. leaders vow to boost security alliance amid China rise
CHESAPEAKE  Planning and land use applications in Chesapeake will begin including lobbying disclosures in May.

City Council member Robert Ike first made the disclosure request in January and council approved the new process in March.

Ike proposed the city begin requiring the disclosure of all companies, firms and individuals hired to lobby City Council and the Planning Commission on land use matters such as rezoning requests, special use permits and planned unit developments. Ike previously said his biggest concern is private companies that reach out individually and talk to council members and lobby and try to convince them to vote for or against a project.

City staff expected the change would be in effect in time for the April planning commission meeting this week. But Planning Director Jimmy McNamara told The Virginian-Pilot this week that staff are still finalizing the official language, adding it to the application portals and alerting current applicants of the new requirement. Once implemented, itll appear as a form thats included in the application package, which is accessible to the public and often included in meeting agendas.

Our hope is by next month to have all disclosures updated so that anything presented to Planning Commission or City Council from that point forward has that updated disclosure, he said.

The proposal came up for a vote during a March City Council meeting. Though Ike pushed to implement the change by amending city zoning ordinances, council ultimately voted 6-3 to pass a substitute motion that administers the change administratively. Council members Don Carey and Ella Ward joined Ike in their no votes.

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An ordinance amendment route includes public hearing opportunities and staff analyses, which can take around three months before a council vote. But Ike said the benefit of making the change this way is that a majority of council members in the future wouldnt be able to revoke the change without a notice to the public.

I just find it difficult to understand why council would do something just under the radar that could be simply changed when it promotes transparency, the lifeblood of government, Ike said.

Council member Amanda Newins said during the March council meeting that she wasnt opposed to the action, but that it was unnecessary to wait months for an ordinance amendment process when it could be done administratively within weeks. She likened Ikes attempt to a dog and pony show and said the use of taxpayer money to change the ordinance didnt amount to good governance.

Several Chesapeake residents spoke in support of Ikes proposal at a March 26 City Council meeting, praising it as a positive step for broadening transparency and trust in government.

City Attorney Catherine Lindley told council members false certification of planning applications comes with a civil penalty of $150 for the first offense and $250 for subsequent violations, which would include false information related to lobbying disclosures.

Natalie Anderson, 757-732-1133, natalie.anderson@virginiamedia.com
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has turned himself in to police after a warrant was issued for his arrest on Wednesday evening.

Rice turned himself in on Thursday to the Glenn Heights, Texas Police Department, according to online records. He has been taken to the DeSoto, Texas jail.

Rice is wanted on one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury, and six counts of collision involving injury.

Theodore Knox, 21, also wanted on the same charges, turned himself into police on Friday, April 12.

KCPD identifies young girl killed in shooting

The passengers in the vehicles will not be charged with a crime.

Rice released a statement on social media that he was taking full responsibility for his role in a March 30th crash that happened on a Dallas highway where police say two speeding drivers in a Lamborghini SUV and a Chevrolet Corvette lost control and caused a six-vehicle crash.

Investigators say a number of people got out of a Lamborghini and Corvette and left the crash scene without providing insurance information or checking to see if anyone was hurt.

Rices attorney Royce West said that Rice was driving the Lamborghini SUV involved in the crash. TMZ reported that Rice owns the Corvette and leases the Lamborghini.

Rice drove the Lamborghini while Knox drove the Corvette that started the crash.

Nobody died, but four people were hurt.

All of the charges that Rice and Knox are facing are felonies.

Collision involving injury carries a penalty of imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for not more than five years or confinement in the county jail for not more than one year, a fine fine not to exceed $5,000 or both.

Independence remains are latest found by mushroom hunters

Collision involving serious bodily injury  a third-degree felony  carries a punishment of imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice of not more than 10 years or less than 2 years. Aggravated assault  a second-degree felony  is punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The investigation is still ongoing.

Rice, a native of a Dallas suburb and a Southern Methodist University graduate, won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in his rookie season and finished with the second most receiving yards behind tight end Travis Kelce.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WDAF)  Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has turned himself in to police after a warrant was issued for his arrest on Wednesday evening.

Rice turned himself in on Thursday to the Glenn Heights, Texas Police Department, according to online records. He has been taken to the DeSoto, Texas jail.

Rice is wanted on one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury, and six counts of collision involving injury.

Theodore Knox, 21, is also wanted on the same charges.

KCPD identifies young girl killed in shooting

The passengers in the vehicles will not be charged with a crime.

Rice released a statement on social media that he was taking full responsibility for his role in a March 30th crash that happened on a Dallas highway where police say two speeding drivers in a Lamborghini SUV and a Chevrolet Corvette lost control and caused a six-vehicle crash.

Investigators say a number of people got out of a Lamborghini and Corvette and left the crash scene without providing insurance information or checking to see if anyone was hurt.

Rices attorney Royce West said that Rice was driving the Lamborghini SUV involved in the crash. TMZ reported that Rice owns the Corvette and leases the Lamborghini.

Rice drove the Lamborghini while Knox drove the Corvette that started the crash.

Nobody died, but four people were hurt.

All of the charges that Rice and Knox are facing are felonies.

Collision involving injury carries a penalty of imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for not more than five years or confinement in the county jail for not more than one year, a fine not to exceed $5,000 or both.

Independence remains are latest found by mushroom hunters

Collision involving serious bodily injury  a third-degree felony  carries a punishment of imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice of not more than 10 years or less than 2 years. Aggravated assault  a second-degree felony  is punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The investigation is still ongoing.

Rice, a native of a Dallas suburb and a Southern Methodist University graduate, won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in his rookie season and finished with the second most receiving yards behind tight end Travis Kelce.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
PRINCETON, WV (WVNS)  West Virginia is number one in the country for reported child abuse. A local Childrens Home Society is working tirelessly to prevent abuse and aid children in need.

On April 26, 2024, the Childrens Home Society of WV, in collaboration with community members, plans to host a Childrens Memorial Flag Day.

This day is set aside to remember children who have died from violence or other preventable causes.

Local business honors Flag Day with retirement ceremony

Memorial Flag Committee member Joanne Boileau stresses the importance of caring for children in our community.

The state of West Virginia is the number one in the country [for reported child abuse]. There are a lot of theories of why that might be, but we cant lose sight of how important these children are, said Boileau.

There will be a keynote address and briefing at the Mercer County Courthouse. The event will also include a musical tribute and refreshments as well.

Events begin at noon on April 26, 2024.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
China is helping Russia ramp up its defense industrial base at such a large scale that Moscow is now undertaking its most ambitious expansion in military manufacturing since the Soviet era as it continues its war against Ukraine, according to senior Biden administration officials.

The support China is providing includes significant quantities of machine tools, drone and turbojet engines and technology for cruise missiles, microelectronics, and nitrocellulose, which Russia uses to make propellant for weapons, said the officials.

Chinese and Russian entitles have also been working jointly to produce drones inside of Russia, one of the officials said.

The support from China is having a significant impact on Russias ability to continue its assault on Ukraine, while Ukraines military has been plagued with equipment and weapon shortages. The challenge for Ukraine is exacerbated by Republicans in the US Congress continuing to block a vote on a new American military aid package to Kyiv.

One of the most game changing moves available to us at this time to support Ukraine is to persuade the PRC (Peoples Republic of China) to stop helping Russia reconstitute its military industrial base. Russia would struggle to sustain its war effort without PRC inputs, said a senior administration official, adding that Chinese materials are filling critical gaps in Russias defense production cycle.

Just this week Gen. Chris Cavoli, the commander of US European Command, told lawmakers that Russia has been quite successful at reconstituting its military since it invaded Ukraine more than 2 years ago, and its capacity has largely grown back to what it was before the invasion. US officials are now making clear that China is largely responsible for that rapid build-up.

As a demonstration of this deepening China-Russia partnership: in 2023, 90% of Russias micro-electronics imports came from China, which Russia has used to produce missiles, tanks, and aircraft, a second official said.

And Russias rapidly expanding production of artillery rounds is due, in large part, to the nitrocellulose coming from China, officials said. This comes as Russia appears on track to produce nearly three times more artillery munitions than the US and Europe, CNN reported earlier this year.

Beyond the defense hardware, China is helping Russia to improve its satellite and other space based capabilities for use in Ukraine, and providing imagery to Russia for its war on Ukraine, the officials said.

Some of this information comes from downgraded US intelligence, officials said.

The support from China is compensating for the significant setbacks that Russias defense industry experienced early in the Ukraine war due to US sanctions and export controls.

President Joe Biden raised concerns about Chinas support for Russias defense industrial base in a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier this month, following other officials repeatedly raising the concerns with their Chinese counterparts, officials said.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken also raised the matter with US allies during his recent Europe trip, the officials said. The US has not seen any interruption to the ongoing Chinese support since that Biden-Xi phone call, though sometimes it takes time to see changes come to fruition.

China continues to steer clear of providing Russia with lethal weaponry, which the US has warned against since the beginning of the Ukraine war, but in many cases the inputs can be just as impactful as lethal weaponry.

US officials said it is imperative for the US and its allies to persuade China to stop this practice, though success will be hard to measure. Earlier this year Xi heralded a new year of growing coordination with Russia during a call with President Vladimir Putin.

Earlier this month Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen delivered China a warning of significant consequences if Chinese companies provide support to Russia for the Ukraine war during her trip to the country.

The Biden administration also issued an executive order targeting third country banks that facilitate support to the Russian defense industrial base and following that action the US has been touch with banks around the world to build up compliance systems to avoid inadvertently being caught up in this trade, which would result in US sanctions.

CNNs Katie Bo Lillis contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
FILE PHOTO: Long March-8 rocket, carrying the relay satellite Queqiao-2 for Earth-Moon communications, blasts off in Hainan

BEIJING (Reuters) - China National Space Administration (CNSA) said on Friday its launch of a key signal relay satellite was a "complete success" and it would serve as the communication bridge for its future lunar probe missions for years to come, state media reported.

China launched the satellite Queqiao-2, which was named after a mythological bridge made of magpies, and two miniature satellites, Tiandu-1 and Tiandu-2, on March 20.

Queqiao-2 will be used as a communications bridge between the ground operations on earth and upcoming lunar probe missions on the far side of the moon until at least 2030.

The moon's near side always faces earth. That means data transfers from the far side are impossible because there is no direct line of sight.

Queqiao-2 researcher and developer Xiong Liang described the satellite as "the main switch" of the whole fourth phase of lunar missions, according to state television CCTV.

"Only when the main switch is flipped on, all the communications can kick off," Xiong said.

Queqiao-2 will orbit the moon and relay signals to and from the Chang'e-6 mission, which expected to be launched in May. The robotic Chang'e-6 probe will seek to retrieve samples from an ancient basin, acquiring lunar material from the moon's hidden side for the first time.

Queqiao-2 will also be used as a relay platform for the Chang'e-7 lunar mission in 2026 and the Chang'e-8 mission in 2028.

The functions and performance of Queqiao-2 met mission requirements and it will be able to provide relay communication services for China's lunar exploration projects and future lunar missions for China and other countries, said the CNSA, according to CCTV.

Queqiao-2 entered its targeted elliptical orbit on April 2 after a correction midway, near-moon braking and orbital manoeuvre around the moon, CNSA said.

The satellite has successfully communicated with Chang'e 4, which was the first spacecraft to perform a soft landing on the far side of the moon and is still carrying out its exploration mission. It also communicated with the Chang'e-6 probe while it is still on the ground earlier this month.

The successful launch of Queqiao-2 comes after the failed launch of another lunar spacecraft DRO-A/B satellites, which was intended to enter the moon's distant retrograde orbit (DRO).

China has not released any information on whether or not the satellites can be retrieved.

(Reporting by Albee Zhang and Ryan Woo; Editing by Jamie Freed)
(Bloomberg) -- China said its top diplomat discussed tensions in the Middle East on a call with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, underscoring fears that the six-month-old Gaza conflict may escalate.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Wang Yi stressed that China strongly condemns the attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing in Beijing.

China called on all parties to the crisis in Gaza to immediately stop the fighting and prevent a humanitarian crisis, Mao said on Friday. She added that the US in particular needs to play a constructive role.

Read More: US Sees Imminent Missile Strike on Israel by Iran, Proxies

Iran has threatened to hit Israel in retaliation for an attack on a diplomatic compound in the Syrian capital of Damascus last week. Israel hasnt explicitly acknowledged it was behind that attack.

China maintains close ties with Iran, helping broker a detente between Tehran and Riyadh a year ago. Most Iranian oil exports go to China.

Read More: Biden Vows to Back Japan, Philippines as China Jolts Allies

Mao avoided a question about whether Wang and Blinken discussed the South China Sea. China and the Philippines have been involved in a series of tense encounters near a disputed shoal there, and recently the US, Japan, Australia and the Philippines patrolled the waters.

On Thursday, President Joe Biden said that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty.

(Updates with more details.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
BEIJING (Reuters) - China summoned Japanese and Philippine diplomats on Friday to express dissatisfaction over negative comments about it aired during a summit of the leaders of the United States, Japan and Philippines, the foreign ministry said.

The United States and its allies, including Japan, have been building up their militaries to counter what they see as a growing threat from China in areas such as the busy waterway of the South China Sea and around Taiwan.

At this week's summit in Washington, the three leaders discussed China's aggressive actions in the disputed South China Sea, besides unveiling a wide range of pacts to boost security and economic ties.

"We strongly deplore and strongly oppose the remarks," a foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, told a regular press briefing in response to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's speech to U.S. Congress in which he named China the biggest challenge the world.

China strongly opposes these countries' small-group politics and any acts that instigate and drive up tension, she said about the summit.

"China opposes forming exclusive circles in the region," Mao said.

A ministry official, Liu Jinsong, met a Japanese embassy official, Akira Yokochi, to make "solemn representations" about the negative comments, the ministry said in a statement, voicing China's serious concern and strong dissatisfaction.

Liu also made "solemn representations" to the Philippine ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz, who was summoned by the ministry over the Southeast Asian country's "negative words and deeds" related to China during the summit.

U.S. President Joe Biden and Kishida had laid out a series of projects, from codeveloping missiles to manned moon landings, while condemning China's escalatory behavior in the South China Sea region.

The two also announced plans to upgrade their military alliance, including the U.S. military command in Japan and more joint development of defence equipment.

In a separate summit with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Biden warned of Beijing's South China Sea moves.

(Reporting by Liz Lee; Writing by Bernard Orr; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
China is providing Moscow with cruise missile, drone and tank parts, fuelling the biggest Russian military expansion since Soviet times, the US has warned.

US defence officials warned that China is propping up Russias defence industrial base, funnelling weapons technology towards the war in Ukraine.

Joe Biden, the US president, raised concerns directly with Xi Jinping on April 2, warning the premier that the United States was unhappy with Chinas huge support for the Russian military.

On Friday, a Biden administration official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, accused China of helping Moscow to meet its most ambitious defence expansion since the Soviet era and on a faster timeline than we believed possible early on in this conflict.

The US official told Reuters: Our view is that one of the most game-changing moves available to us at this time to support Ukraine is to persuade the PRC [China] to stop helping Russia reconstitute its military industrial base.

The official added: Russia would struggle to sustain its war effort without PRC input.

China is accused of supplying Russia with machine tools to increase its ballistic missile production, which has allowed Vladimir Putins forces to outgun Ukraine on the battlefield.

Working jointly on drones

Beijing is also thought to have provided Russia with drone engines, cruise-missile turbojet engines and nitrocellulose, a chemical compound used to make propellants for weapons.

US intelligence suggests Chinese and Russian companies have worked jointly to produce drones inside Russia, while Chinese companies have worked to improve Russias satellite and space-based capabilities and supplied satellite imagery for military purposes.

The US said that five Chinese companies were providing optical components for use in Russian tanks and armoured vehicles. They are Wuhan Global Sensor Technology Co; Wuhan Tongsheng Technology Co Ltd; Hikvision; iRay Technology; and the North China Research Institute of Electro-Optics.

Overall, the officials claimed, about 90 per cent of Russias microelectronics used to make missiles, tanks and aircraft came from China, alongside 70 per cent of Russias approximately $900 million in machine tools that had been imported in the last quarter of 2023.

Janet Yellen, US treasury secretary, told Chinese officials on a visit to Beijing this week that companies, including those in the PRC, must not provide material support for Russias war, and that they will face significant consequences if they do.

Trade between China and Russia reached a record $240 billion in 2023, according to Bloomberg, as supplies of goods and materials from the West have been choked off by Western sanctions. At the same time, Russia has boosted exports of coal and oil to China.

Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, is reported to have briefed European allies this week on the scope and significance of Chinas support. He is expected to travel to China later this month for talks in his second trip in less than a year.

Prudent and responsible

Qin Gang, Chinas top foreign minister, said in April last year that it would not sell weapons to either side, saying it had adopted a prudent and responsible attitude, and that China would also regulate the export of items with dual civilian and military use in accordance with laws and regulations.

That came after Mr Blinken said the US had intelligence suggesting China was considering providing arms and ammunition to Russia  and warned that such involvement in the Kremlins war effort would be a serious problem.

Separately, China has announced rare sanctions against two US arms makers, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and General Dynamics Land Systems, over what Beijing called their support for arms sales to Taiwan.

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KYODO NEWS - Apr 12, 2024 - 21:09 | All, Japan, World

Japan, the United States and South Korea held a joint exercise in the East China Sea, the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force said Friday, in an apparent effort to enhance deterrence against China and North Korea.

The two-day exercise from Thursday, involving a U.S. carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered Theodore Roosevelt, took place as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is visiting the United States for talks with President Joe Biden.

It was the first trilateral training exercise for Washington and its two East Asian security allies in the East China Sea, where Beijing has been intensifying its maritime assertiveness, since January.

Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs also remain a major regional security threat.

The Japanese destroyer the Ariake and the South Korean destroyer the Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong also took part in the exercise, which included anti-submarine warfare drills and search and rescue operations, according to the MSDF.

With China in mind, Kishida and Biden agreed to boost their security alliance during their talks in Washington on Wednesday, and held a three-way summit with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the following day, vowing to advance their defense and economic ties.

Kishida became the first Japanese leader to visit the United States as a state guest since then Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2015.

Related coverage:

Japan PM asks U.S. to take lead for global order in landmark speech

FOCUS: Biden and Kishida future-proof bilateral ties in uncertain times

Japan, U.S. leaders vow to boost security alliance amid China rise
Chinese official talks with North Korean counterpart in the nations' highest-level meeting in years

In this photo provided on April 12, 2024, by the North Korean government, Choe Ryong Hae, right, vice-chairman of the central committee of the Workers' Party of North Korea, talks with Zhao Leji, left, chairman of the National Peoples Congress of China during a reception, at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang, North Korea, on April 11, 2024. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  A top Chinese official arrived in North Korea and held talks on how to boost their cooperation, North Koreas state media reported Friday, in the counties highest-level meeting in about five years.

Zhao Leji, who is chairman of Chinas National Peoples Congress and considered the No. 3 official in the ruling Communist Party, arrived in North Korea on Thursday. Chinas government earlier said he will stay in North Korea until Saturday.

Zhao met his North Korean counterpart Choe Ryong Hae later Thursday and discussed how to promote exchanges and cooperation on all areas such as politics, economy and culture, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency reported.

The two also exchanged views on unspecified regional and international issues of mutual concerns, KCNA said.

Zhao is one of the seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee, the Communist Partys top leadership body headed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Zhao's visit to North Korea marked the first bilateral exchange involving a Chinese Politburo Standing Committee member since the coronavirus pandemic started. In 2019, the two countries held two summit meetings between Xi and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Observers say North Korea and China are expected to hold a number of exchanges this year to mark the 75th year since they established diplomatic ties.

North Korea has been seeking to boost its cooperation with China and Russia in the face of a standoff with the United States and South Korea over the North's advancing nuclear program.

China, North Koreas biggest aid benefactor, is believed to have long provided clandestine assistance to North Korea in violation of international sanctions.

Kim traveled to Russia in September for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The U.S., South Korea and others accuse North Korea of supplying conventional weapons for Russias war in Ukraine in return for advanced weapons technologies and other support.
BEIJING (AP)  Chinese President Xi Jinping met with former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou in Beijing Wednesday in a bid to promote unification between the sides that separated amid civil war in 1949.

Ma stepped down as president in 2016 and was largely excluded from the opposition Nationalist Partys failed campaign to retake the presidency in January, a concession to the electorate's strong opposition to political unification with China and politicians seen as willing to compromise Taiwan's security.

He follows a long line of politicians from the Nationalists, also known as the KMT, who have been invited to China by its authoritarian one-party government and given VIP treatment on visits around the country.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. Beijing sends navy ships and warplanes around the island on a daily basis in hopes of wearing down Taiwan's defensives and intimidating the population.

The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are all Chinese. There is no dispute that cannot be resolved, there is no problem that cannot be discussed, and no force can separate us," Xi told Ma.

"Differences in systems cannot change the fact that both sides of the Taiwan Straits belong to the same country and nation, he added.

Ma responded that a new war between the sides would be an unbearable burden for the Chinese nation.

"The Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait will definitely have enough wisdom to handle cross-Strait disputes peacefully and avoid conflicts, Ma said.

Independence leaning president-elect Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party won the January election handily and his vice president-elect Bi-khim Hsiao has been visiting nations friendly to Taiwan in Europe and elsewhere ahead of taking office.

Ma's 11-day trip, ostensibly at the head of a student delegation, underlines continued interactions in education, business and culture despite Beijings threat to use military force against the self-governing island democracy to achieve unification.

Toward the end of his second term in 2015, Ma held a historic meeting with Xi in Singapore, which has close contacts with both sides. The meeting  the first between the leaders of China and Taiwan in more than half a century  produced few tangible outcomes, and Mas Nationalist Party lost the next presidential election to Tsai Ing-wen of the DPP.

Lai Ching-te, currently vice president, is despised by Beijing for his opposition to unification. The Nationalists recovered a narrow majority in the legislature but their influence on foreign policy and other national issues remains limited.

Taiwan has been boosting military relations with allies such as the U.S. and Japan while maintaining close economic ties with the Chinese mainland.
A Chlamydia vaccine showed promising results in an early-stage clinical trial conducted by researchers in the U.K. and Denmark.

The early phase of the research found the experimental vaccine to be safe. The study was conducted from 2020-22 with individuals split between women and men, none of whom had chlamydia. The researchers examined and tested various dosages of the vaccine, they reported Thursday in The Lancet Infectious Diseases.

Participants got the vaccine or a placebo during the four-month period of testing.

Researchers noted that of 154 participants screened, 65 were randomly assigned and 60 finished the trial.

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. The disease can permanently damage womens reproductive system and make pregnancies difficult or sometimes impossible, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

No vaccine is currently available to protect against the disease. More than 1.6 million cases were reported in the U.S. in 2022, according to the CDC.

During the trial, participants also received the vaccine through eye drops, apart from getting the shot in the arm. A Phase 2 trial will look at the effectiveness of the shot.

The next phase still has to answer questions, especially with the research being in its infancy.

Does it confer the ability to hold off infection with chlamydia? Dr. Hilary Reno, a professor of medicine at Washington University in St. Louis, told NBC News.

If you do have an infection, does it mean youre more likely to have an asymptomatic infection? said Reno, who is also a medical director of the St. Louis County Sexual Health Clinic.

We dont know that, and thats what the next phase of studies would be, she added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Cicadas are coming soon. University of North Georgia professor explains what to expect

An extraordinary natural event is going to happen in several states in just a few weeks. Some are referring to it as a cicada-pocalypse with trillions of cicadas set to emerge this spring.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Cicadas are harmless insects that spend most of their lives underground. They wait for the soil temperature to reach 64 degrees to emerge.

But they are noisy and the sheer numbers and the noise they generate can reach 107 decibels.

Literally in somebodys yard theres thousands and thousands of them all singing to attract a mate at the same time, said University of North Georgia biology professor Evan Lampert.

There are cicadas all over the United States, so you may be wondering what makes this emergence so special.

Whats special about the eastern U.S. is it has what we call periodical cicadas. And so periodical cicadas really emerge in vast, vast numbers, like trillions numbers, like vast numbers, over large areas of the eastern U.S. and they do this once every 13 years or 17 years, Lambert explains.

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Lambert says the 13-year brood, also known as the Great Southern brood, will emerge for the first time since 2011. Its the largest brood and it stretches across the Southern United States, including here in Georgia.

Cicadas are helpful to the ecosystem. They provide a good food source for many animals from insects to small mammals, even fish.

So literally a single persons back yard could have hundreds of thousands of them so then if you extend that to the eastern US, the numbers are just - like even Georgia might have billions by itself.

In some parts of the country, there will be two broods of cicadas emerging for the first time in more than 200 years. That wont happen again until 2245.

They are expected to appear around Mothers Day on May 12.

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IN OTHER NEWS
City councilmember floats idea of using tourism tax revenue for other things

A Charlotte city council member talked about using the tourism tax on other things, such as roads and infrastructure.

However, there is no ambiguity regarding the allocation of the tax revenue.

Charlotte tourism CEO reflects on growth, changes to city ahead of retirement

In Charlotte, tourism taxes must be used for tourism purposes.

Those are the taxes paid at hotels or on prepared food and beverages.

Last week, Councilmember Renee Johnson, D-District 4, floated the idea of putting those taxes toward infrastructure.

The tourism industry did not like that idea and now the mayor is taking a firm stance against it.

I would like to take a look at that if that is a possibility, Johnson said during a meeting earlier this month.

Johnson told the Economic Development Committee she wants to explore flexibility for spending the citys hospitality funds.

She cited Ashevilles use of the funds for greenways and infrastructure.

It is worth talking about, a different way of looking at things, Johnson.

I just think that is a terrible idea, said Councilmember Malcolm Graham, D-District 2.

The North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association agrees with Councilman Malcolm Graham.

The association sent a letter to the city this week saying that taxes should not be used for general fund expenses or things used primarily by the community at large or other businesses ... If tourism promotion is no longer needed and the tax has met its goals, the tax should be lowered or eliminated.

Mayor Vi Lyles was quick to respond to the organization and try to put out the fire writing The conversation you referenced in your April 8 letter was just that -- a conversation. It does not question or indicate any change in city policy  The City of Charlotte does not intend to change how we utilize funds generated by hospitality taxes or work with our hospitality industry.

During last weeks meeting, Graham warned other council members about going down this road.

I am not even sure if it is a conversation, he said. We can certainly talk about anything. It is just, I am not on board with even talking about that.

All of this comes on the heels of a lawsuit involving Currituck County on the coast. The county is tied up in litigation for using occupancy taxes for emergency services.

VIDEO: Charlotte leaders discuss tourism recovery
City in Kansas says it violated its own ordinance, will remove goats

Newton says it violated its own ordinance by using goats as weed control on city-owned industrial land.

We tried this with the best intentions on a property in a non-residential setting, City Manager Daniela Rivas said in a news release Friday. We wanted to get the job done in a better way and save some taxpayer dollars. Were so sorry we put the cart before the goat.

The goats have been on the property since April 4 and were supposed to be there through the end of the month. They will be removed as soon as possible, the release says, adding the city may look in the future to allow animals grazing for property or vegetation management.

Newton City Code prohibits the harboring of livestock such as goats, the release says. City maintenance staff thought of the goats as a short-term contracted service rather than long-term residents, but City legal staff have advised that is not an exception to code.

The 190 yearling goats were supposed to clear brush and saplings from the undeveloped property on about 24 acres in the Kansas Logistics Park, which is on the east side of town.

City staff have burned the area every couple of years but hoped the goats would be more effective in keeping down saplings and be a more eco-friendly and cost-effective option, the release says.

The city planned to pay Restoration Grazing LLC $2,000 for the service. The city of Wichita used the same company to clear brush in Sim Park last year.
Miami City Manager Art Noriega told the Miami Herald on Friday that the city as a whole is ending its relationship with Pradere Manufacturing, a furniture company that employs his wife and is owned by her parents.

During Thursdays commission meeting, Noriega announced that his own office would stop purchasing from Pradere. It was a presentation that came almost three months after he said he would be refuting accusations about a conflict of interest regarding the purchases from Pradere made by his office and other city departments.

When discussing the managers presentation, Commissioner Manolo Reyes said the entire city government should stop doing business with Pradere as long as Noriega is city manager.

On Friday, Noriega told the Herald that the city will not purchase from Pradere as long as he is city manager. The city manager is the top administrative officer overseeing a municipal workforce of over 4,000 employees.

Asked if there was a memo officially documenting the policy change, Noriega said that the purchasing department, which buys goods on behalf of the city government, is aware of the move.

It was referenced in the meeting by Commissioner Reyes, and I acknowledged it, Noriega said. Not only does staff know, Pradere will not respond to inquiries until Im no longer City Manager.

Commissioner Miguel Angel Gabela told the Herald that the city manager confirmed the same change to him Friday morning in a phone call.

READ MORE: Is Miami city managers furniture saga under ethics review? Heres what we know

Noriega came under public scrutiny in January, after Miami Herald news partner WLRN reported that since Noriega became manager in 2020, the city had spent over $440,000 with Pradere Manufacturing.

When he started the job, Noriega did not seek an ethics opinion from the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust. Instead, he wrote a memo sent to the mayor and commissioners in April 2020 disclosing that his wife was the chief operating officer at Pradere, a company that has done business with the city since 2008.

The matter is under preliminary investigation by the Ethics Commission, a source previously confirmed to the Herald.
City of Washington declares state of emergency due to flooding

The City of Washington has declared a state of emergency due to severe flooding that hit our region.

The mayor declared the state of emergency Friday morning, citing extraordinary rainfall and weather conditions the residents and general public...are being subjected to potential harm to their person and property.

The state of emergency will last five days unless extended by city council.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

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Etna issues evacuation notice due to severe flooding LIVE UPDATES: FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS continue overnight after record rainfall PHOTOS: Flash flooding conditions across western Pennsylvania as storms move through VIDEO: 6 students graduate from Pitts dentistry apprenticeship program DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
Laws to change voter identification requirements will remain in effect after the Idaho Supreme Court on Thursday determined they do not violate the Idaho Constitution.

Two state laws enacted in 2023 removed student IDs from the list of IDs that can be used to register and vote, and they eliminated a provision that allows prospective voters to register using the last four digits of their Social Security number. The laws also created a new form of a free ID card, and they standardized proof-of-residency requirements and forms of eligible ID, which were previously different depending on how a voter chose to register.

The League of Women Voters and Babe Vote, a progressive voter drive group, sued the secretary of state over the laws and argued they violated the state constitution by burdening young voters and college students, and amounted to voter suppression by making it harder to vote. Idaho saw the largest increase in new young registered voters in the nation between 2018 and 2022, according to research from Tufts University.

The civic groups have said the laws created just another barrier from lawmakers who in the past few years have placed more restrictions on voting.

Its like death by a thousand cuts, said Sam Sandmire, a spokesperson for Babe Vote. They set up so many barriers that people will give up.

Idaho is one of six states that now does not accept student IDs at polls, according to Voting Rights Lab, which tracks voting laws. Its one of nine states that request photo IDs at polls but allow identity verification by other means, according to the group. Thirteen states dont require an ID to vote, and others allow voters to fill out provisional ballots without IDs.

Idaho Supreme Court sides with lawmakers

In a unanimous decision, the state Supreme Court ruled that the voting law changes were legitimate. The justices did not agree with the organizations claims that the effects of the laws on younger voters, like college students, warranted high levels of judicial scrutiny. The court upheld a 4th Judicial District judges decision to end the case with a summary judgment before it went to trial.

In particular, the organizations had argued that the now-banned student IDs are free, and that the newly created free IDs would be unavailable to certain voters and still cost money to obtain. The new IDs require identity verification from a certified birth certificate, passport or other document, which generally cost money, Sandmire said. They argued that new residents with drivers licenses from other states would be unable to vote with their out-of-state IDs and also be ineligible for the free ID for six months.

The limitation of the no-fee voter ID makes little sense in light of the proof-of-residency requirement and is unjustified and serves no purpose other than to make it more difficult for people who have moved to Idaho from other states to register to vote, the organizations argued in a court filing.

Justice Robyn Brody called their reasoning disingenuous, because the laws still allow registered voters to vote without ID if they sign a sworn affidavit at the polls. Sworn affidavits, however, cannot be used to register to vote.

I think that they missed a lot of information that would have been helpful to them in making a more informed decision, because we were not allowed to present our case in court, Sandmire said. We didnt get to prove that there are people under these laws that cannot vote.

From out-of-state college students who dont drive, to disabled people who have trouble getting to their countys office to present the new required documents, Sandmire said the laws put up barriers for a range of voters.

Brody argued that the removal of student IDs is burdensome to some but does not effectively annul the right of suffrage. She ruled that removing the IDs was within the bounds of the Legislatures authority to regulate elections.

Access, security are not competing objectives

Secretary of State Phil McGranes office acknowledged the six-month limbo period before new voters can obtain a free ID and supported a new law passed this year to remove the waiting period that goes into effect in July, after the May primaries. The state has issued 60 free ID cards as of February, according to his office; 98% of voters vote with an ID card.

We are pleased to see that the Idaho Supreme Court recognizes the importance of voting and that access to voting and the security of our elections are not competing objectives, McGrane said in a Thursday news release. Our office looks forward to collaborating with the League of Women Voters and Babe Vote to encourage more Idahoans to register and actively participate in the upcoming May 21 primary and Nov. 5 general elections.

The two new voting laws went into effect in the last year. House Bill 340, which imposed new registration requirements, became active on July 1, 2023. House Bill 124, which removed student ID use at polls, took effect Jan. 1. Legislators passed several more voting-related laws this year, including one new law aimed at ballot harvesting, which makes it illegal to deliver someone elses completed absentee ballot to a dropbox.

When asked to respond to complaints of voter suppression, Chelsea Carattini, a spokesperson for the secretary of states office, told the Statesman that the new voter ID laws are the same for everyone across the board.

Attorney General Raul Labrador, whose office represented the secretary of state, called the ruling a strong victory for election security.

The Idaho Legislature took steps to improve our election security, but rather than encouraging young people to obtain their free state voter IDs, advocacy groups took legal action against the state, alleging age discrimination, Labrador said in a news release. We are pleased with this victory but acknowledge liberal advocacy groups are bringing similar claims in federal court, and we will continue to defend these laws.

A similar lawsuit brought last year by March for Our Lives, an organization that supports gun control, is proceeding in federal court and has a hearing scheduled for next month. That case argues that House Bill 124 targets young voters and violates the U.S. Constitution. One of the attorneys on the case is Terri Pickens, a Democratic candidate for governor.

Sandmire said voter suppression laws have made it more difficult to register voters, mandating documents like lease agreements that people dont carry around or utility bills that some students dont have. She said she suspects the law changes are aimed at young voters because the states Republican officials fears their votes.

This Legislature has tried virtually everything in its power to prevent young, disabled, homebound, and working-class Idahoans from exercising their right to vote, Sandmire said by text. While the state may have won in court today, they have not won this battle.  We will fight to build a democracy in Idaho that works for everyone.

Last month, the Montana Supreme Court ruled that several laws to restrict voting  including a law that eliminated student IDs  violated that states constitution. The lawsuit was brought by the state Democratic Party and Native American groups and was filed after the Republican-controlled Legislature enacted the new voting restrictions in 2021.
A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a boy in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

JUBA, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Mary Keji, a resident of Nakituen Korok South area of Rajaf Payam, located seven km west of Juba, the capital of South Sudan, had been stuck for a month with her four-year-old sick child due to lack of a nearby health facility.

Her child Agnes Poni has been suffering from a combination of gastritis, flu and skin rash since March, but was not getting proper medical treatment until the opportunity arose during the visit of the 11th batch of the Chinese medical team to her village.

Keji said that she previously had sought treatment from several clinics in Juba, including Al Saba Children's Hospital, but the condition of her child had not improved.

"I moved with my child to several clinics but the condition of the child did not improve. I am happy to have got assistance from the Chinese doctors, I have spent a lot of money visiting private clinics," Keji said after the Chinese medics gave her medicine which could last for two weeks for her ailing child. "Private clinics are very expensive but the Chinese doctors are treating people here for free."

Gastritis is inflammation (irritation) of the stomach lining. This may be caused by many factors including infection, alcohol, particular medications and some allergic and immune conditions.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) headquarters is hosted on the community land in Nakituen Korok South along the Juba-Yei road.

The medical camp was initiated by the Chinese peacekeepers who often patrol the community in Nakituen Korok South.

Jane Yange, 69, who has suffered from gastritis for seven years, had also failed to get proper medication due to not only the lack of money but also the absence of a health facility in her locality.

"Whenever I could eat food, I develop diarrhea and stomach inflammation," she said. Yange was able to get free antibiotics and other medicine for her condition from the Chinese doctors.

Gabriel Ladu, community secretary of Nakituen Korok South, commended both the Chinese peacekeepers and the medical team for providing in-kind medical services to the community. "The Chinese peacekeepers are the ones who came up with this idea of bringing Chinese doctors to conduct medical camp here, we were not aware of the presence of the Chinese medical team in the country," Ladu said.

"We are the host community to the UNMISS headquarters and the Chinese peacekeepers are providing security to the community around the UN headquarters," he added.

Ladu said that the vital medical services provided to the community will help improve the lives of the local people. 

A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a child in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Doctors from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provide free treatment for people in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a man in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Doctors from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provide free treatment for people in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

A doctor from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provides free treatment for a child in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Doctors from the 11th batch of Chinese medical team provide free treatment for people in Nakitun Village, Juba, South Sudan, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Han Xu)
Robert MacNeil, the longtime broadcast journalist and co-anchor of The MacNeil/Lehrer Report, died Friday. He was 93.

MacNeil was an NBC News reporter in Dallas on the day President Kennedy was assassinated. He also worked for the BBC before joining PBS for the bulk of his career.

MacNeils reporting on the Watergate scandal of the 1970s propelled him to prominence in the national press corps with his half-hour program originally dubbed the Robert MacNeil Report on PBS.

The show was later rebranded the MacNeil-Lehrer Report, which he anchored for two decades with colleague Jim Lehrer.

The show was again rebranded in the 1980s as the MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour, the first-of-its-kind hourlong newscast that set the stage for what is today known as PBS NewsHour.

MacNeil retired in 1995, leaving anchoring duties to Lehrer, who himself stepped away from the program in 2009. Lehrer died in 2020.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
What does one do after a 30-plus year career at Lacey Fire District 3? You go into business, of course.

Or at least thats the path Craig Richards has taken. He had an interest in smoked meats, his business partner and brother-in-law James Mickelson wanted to do something in coffee, so the two of them, along with Dawn, Craigs wife, agreed on a business that combines both endeavors called Coffee Pub NW Bar & Grill.

It opened April 1 just off Old Highway 99 near Spuds in Tumwater and Richards retired from the fire department the same week. One might consider taking it easy in retirement, but Richards said, I like to do stuff.

I served the community in one capacity as a firefighter and now Im in service to it in another way, he said.

Their location has a drive-up espresso window, which opens at 6 a.m. The indoor space opens at 7 a.m. and the pub closes at 9 p.m. The last call for food is 8:30 p.m. because thats when the kitchen closes, he said. The business is open daily.

For their coffee, they are using an Alder-smoked coffee bean produced by Caffe Darte in Federal Way. For the menu, Richards gets to put his smoker to use, cooking up pork belly tacos, or how about a Mount Rainier sandwich? Its made with beef brisket, pork butt, pulled chicken, sweet barbecue sauce, cole slaw, pickled onions and candied jalapenos, to name just some of the ingredients. For the tacos, the pork belly is seasoned, smoked, cut into strips and added to the taco, plus other ingredients, such as those candied jalapenos.

Richards said the tacos are among the most popular items so far at the new business. They also serve sausage and bacon breakfast burritos.

The first week was a whirlwind, crazy busy, he said. We are super appreciative of the support from the community, friends and other folks in the business community who shared their advice.

Coffee and Pub NW is at 804 79th Ave. SE, Suite 108, in Tumwater.

Other business happenings

Olympia Copy & Printing, which is at 704 Franklin St. SE in downtown Olympia, is closing after 53 years of business, the owner announced on the business website.

At age 68, cancer reared its ugly head for the fifth time in January, the owner writes. The need to come up with an exit became obvious. The building sold in March and the new owners will take possession May 1st. The business is also closing in its current formI had to face the very agonizing decision, it was time.

It was of utmost importance that my book of business remain local. Graphic Communications will have our digital files and records so you may continue with reorders/new orders and develop relationships with them.

Story continues

We, at OlyCopy will tearfully lock our doors together one last time April 30th, 2024.

Blue Heron Bakery in west Olympia, which has provided the South Sound community with bread, granola and other goodies for more than 46 years, is now a community-owned co-op as of April 1, the organization announced.

The business transitioned from one owner, Evan Price, to one that now has 25 workers and more than 300 consumer members, according to a news release.

The co-op has adopted a management structure called Sociocracy, which allows workers to have an equal voice in deciding how the operations will work with the motto Good enough for now, safe enough to try.

Our employee member owners are excited to work as a team and take on more responsibility collectively. We are like a family here, and all have the same goal in mind; to keep Blue Heron Bakerys spirit strong and to continue to serve our loyal community indefinitely, said staff member and Director Ella Foley in a statement.

Blue Heron Bakery in west Olympia seeks to become a cooperative.

Summit Pacific Medical Center in Elma, which is expanding, has received $2.5 million in federal funding toward that goal, the hospital announced.

When the expansion is complete in Spring 2026, SPMC will have nearly doubled the current footprint with a 30,000-square-foot addition, including an increase in bed capacity, an expanded Emergency Department, more areas for triage and patient holding, round-the-clock MRI services, and enhanced patient flow, a news release reads.

The infusion of federal funding is a significant financial boost that will help us enhance health care services for our growing community for years to come, said Chief Executive Josh Martin in a statement.

In addition to the federal funding, SPMC has also secured about $60 million in revenue bonds to support the expansion project.

People News

Jamila Thomas is the new chief administrative officer at Washington State Employees Credit Union, the credit union announced.

Thomas previously served as Gov. Jay Inslees chief of staff and as chief of staff to Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal among other senior leadership roles in state government, according to a news release.

Thomas earned an undergraduate degree with an emphasis in political science from The Evergreen State College in Olympia.

In her new role, Thomas will work directly with the credit unions board of directors and oversee WSECUs human resources, public relations, community relations and organizational development teams.

Jamila Thomas

A new taproom comes to Tumwater and a taco restaurant aims to open May 1

Brewery transformed to baseball facility, oyster bar eyes new space, fusion eatery opens

Downtown Olympia bank to be acquired by Tacoma-based credit union

If you know of a retailer, restaurant, coffee shop or other business that is opening, closing, expanding, remodeling, or changing its focus, send an email to reporter Rolf Boone at rboone@theolympian.com.
Cold case murder of WWII veteran in Florida is solved after more than 50 years

The cold case murder of a decorated World War II veteran, killed execution style in the Florida woods in 1968, has been solved 56 years later, authorities announced Thursday.

Hiram Ross Grayam, who became a milkman after serving in the war in Europe, failed to return from his regular delivery route on April 11, 1968, the Indian River County Sheriffs Office said.

Hiram Ross Grayam. (Indian River County Sheriff's Office)

A girl was the last person to see him. She reported running toward Grayams milk truck and saw two gunmen in the car with him, officials said in a news conference Thursday.

A police description of the case said that an early 50s model Chevrolet, occupied by two unknown males, was seen leaving the area at a high rate of speed minutes after gunshots were heard.

A search was launched for Grayam, and his body was found deep in the woods, shot several times, along with his truck. He was killed execution style, Sheriff Eric Flowers said, in a scene investigators described as chilling.

Despite exhaustive efforts, his killer eluded justice, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

The offices cold cast unit relooked into Grayams murder, and the accounts of two witnesses finally cracked the case.

Through determination and the cooperation of witnesses, new leads emerged: Thomas J. Williams, now deceased, had confessed to Grayams murder, his guilt echoing from beyond the grave, the sheriffs office said.

Though the case went cold for decades, it was an interview Grayams son, Larry Grayam, gave to a local media outlet in 2006 that saw it regain momentum.

2006, that was the first time that we really got information about Thomas Williams being potentially involved in this, Flowers said in Thursdays news conference. Thomas Williams wrote a letter to the editor of the newspaper after he saw the coverage that was happening, saying that he had been accused of the murder but he denied having knowledge of it, that he wasnt involved in it.

The trail went cold again, and in 2016 Williams died.

Over the last two years, Williams ex-wife and another person came forward.

In February 2022, he came back on the radar after an inmate at Indian River County Jail, who at the time was said to be related to Williams, told detectives Williams confessed to him that he killed the milkman back in 1968, TC Palm reported. Then in December 2023, detectives spoke with a woman in Miami who had been married to Williams.

She did not know this other family member (the inmate), had never spoken to him and gave the exact same account, Flowers said, TC Palm reported. Which ultimately gives us two independent witnesses who both say that this guy confessed to killing the milkman to them.

Flowers noted that the two witnesses were only willing to speak because Williams was dead.

These folks said, I would have never said anything to you before. As long as he was alive, he was a threat to me and my family, we would have never told you. But the fact that he is now dead gave them the courage to come forward, Flowers said. Two independent witnesses who both say that this guy confessed to killing the milkman to them, independent of each other, dont know each other.

Flowers said the identity of the second person considered a suspect is known to detectives, but they did not disclose a name.

Larry Grayam called the announcement bittersweet, saying he was very pleased that weve come to the point that we can now close the case, TC Palm reported.

Grayam was remembered as a beloved milkman and a decorated veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart.

In his time serving, he saw the liberation of two concentration camps and faced the horrors of the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most important battles in WWII that helped turned the tide of the war and halted Nazi Germanys advance.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Couples in Bogota have been asked to shower together to save water amid a historic drought aggravated by the El Nino climate phenomenon.

Neighbourhoods across the Colombian capital were cut off from the water grid on Thursday to save what little water remains in nearby reservoirs.

Carlos Fernando Galan, the citys mayor, pleaded with residents to consider forgoing daily hygiene measures entirely because of historic lows in water reserves.

If you are not going to leave your house on Sunday or any other day of the week, take advantage of it and do not take a bath, he said.

He went on to urge those in relationships to shower in tandem to save water: Couples, shower together. This is just a teaching exercise, about saving water. Thats all it is.

El Nino, a climate pattern that describes the unusual warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, usually causes lower rainfall in South America.

Emergency measures

But this year the situation has escalated out of control, with record-breaking temperatures and droughts, forcing the introduction of emergency measures.

An ecological carwash in Bogota - AP

Despite usually receiving twice the amount of annual rainfall as London, Bogota has been surrounded by raging wildfires.

About 10 million people rely on the nearby reservoirs, which are now at a critical level.

Some 70 per cent of the capitals water comes from the Chingaza reservoir, but its supplies are down to 16 per cent  their lowest level since 1980.

It is thought that just 54 days of water supplies for the capital remain.

New restrictions will impose 24-hour water cuts every 10 days by sector, leaving residents facing fewer showers, minimal laundry loads and dirty cars.

Dont waste a drop

The mayor has not said how long the restrictions would last, but urged residents to reduce consumption as much as possible.

Lets not waste a drop of water in Bogota at this time, said Mr Galan.

Susana Muhamad, the environment minister, said significant rains were only expected at the end of April or early May.

In the mountainous suburb La Calera, residents have been suffering occasional water cuts since February and tanker trucks now deliver drinking water.

There are things we can no longer do, like washing the car, Clara Escobar, 36, who came to fill two buckets from the tanker, told AFP.

We shower less and we wash the clothes [only] when necessary, she added.

Cafeteria sales impacted

Lorena Lee, 46, who owns a cafeteria in La Calera, predicted she will be unable to open on the days when the suburb is impacted by the cuts as she cannot prepare food without water.

Obviously this affects a day of sales ... but there is nothing to do, she said.

Extreme measures have also been enacted in Mexico City, where water has been rationed for the past month, and Guatemala, which declared a state of emergency in response to uncontrollable wildfires.

The shortages are part of a growing trend of warmer temperatures and limited rainfall.

In 2023, Mexico saw 21 per cent less rainfall than usual.

Uruguays capital of Montevideo was forced to rely on bottled water in 2023, as reserves dropped so low that brackish river water was mixed into the drinking supply by officials.

In 2018, residents of the South African city of Cape Town narrowly escaped so-called Day Zero when taps would have run dry because of a multi-year drought.

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A Colorado reproductive rights campaign announced Friday it has surpassed the necessary number of signatures to have a measure added to the November ballot enshrining the right to an abortion into the states constitution.

The Coloradans for Protecting Reproductive Freedom coalition announced it had exceeded its goal of collecting 185,000 signatures, securing more than 225,000. The campaign needed 124,238 signatures to qualify.

However, the campaign must also have signatures from 2 percent of all registered voters in each of Colorados 35 state senate districts. Three districts remain unaccounted for, though the campaign says it needs less than 100 signatures to complete this goal.

The proposed initiative would add an amendment to the Colorado Constitution recognizing the right to abortion, and, in connection therewith, prohibiting the state and local governments from denying, impeding, or discriminating against the exercise of that.

Since the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision in 2022, state voters have consistently voted to pass measures ensuring abortion access. Ohio voters approved a constitutional amendment last year that ensures abortion access.

This momentous campaign milestone means Colorado voters are one step closer to seeing a constitutional amendment on the November 2024 ballot to protect abortion from government interference, the campaign said in a statement. This announcement comes just a few days after Colorados neighboring state, Arizona, had its Supreme Court uphold an 1864 law banning abortion, a law enacted when Arizona was still a territory.

A similar ballot measure ensuring the right to abortion may be on the Arizona ballot in November. The organization leading the effort, Arizona for Abortion Access, said last week that it had collected more than enough signatures for the ballot.

Arizona inflamed the national abortion debate this week when its state Supreme Court upheld an 1864 law essentially banning the procedure.

Abortion remains legal in Colorado, with no current restrictions based on gestational duration. In 2022, the Colorado General Assembly passed a law declaring every pregnant individual has a fundamental right to continue the pregnancy and give birth or to have an abortion.

Abortion may be legal in Coloradoand thats due to our leadership passing the Reproductive Health Equity Act in 2022 to codify a persons fundamental right to make reproductive health-care decisionsbut statutory protections do not mean we are any safer from government interference than Arizona is, Dusti Gurule, president and CEO of the Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights and co-chair of the campaign said in a statement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Colorado lawmaker apologized Thursday for leaving a firearm unattended in a bathroom at the State Capitol this week.

Republican state Rep. Don Wilson left a loaded 9 mm Glock handgun on a shelf in a single-occupancy bathroom around 9 p.m. local time Tuesday, the Colorado State Patrol said in a news release. The Capitol was closed to the public at 7 p.m. that evening.

State Patrol officials said security video showed the gun was left unattended for about 20 minutes before it was found by the janitorial staff and safely stored. Wilson contacted state troopers about an hour later, and they returned the gun to him.

I want to be clear that I take full and complete accountability for the incident. I made a mistake and am very sorry, Wilson said in a statement Thursday. I take firearm safety very seriously. This is a humbling experience and I will reaffirm my commitment to responsible handling procedures.

Colorado State Police said that after an investigation it was determined that Wilson had not violated any state laws.

Individuals with Capitol credentials and access are permitted to carry a firearm inside the secure areas in compliance with Colorado gun laws, state police said.

Democratic House Speaker Julie McCluskie, admonished Wilson, saying in a statement this incident created a dangerous situation.

She added that Democrats are pursuing legislation to prohibit carrying firearms in the Capitol.

A measure that would prohibit firearms in sensitive spaces, including certain government buildings, was introduced in February.

Senate President Steve Fenberg, a Democrat who supports the measure, said, A Republican lawmaker recklessly leaving a loaded gun in a public bathroom only demonstrates the very need for gun safety policies like the ones Democrats are fighting for.

Similar efforts have fallen short in Congress.

The House Natural Resources Committee last year rejected a Democratic amendment to ban firearms from the committees hearing room after the Republican-controlled Rules Committee removed a provision put in place by Democrats that had barred firearms in committees and hearing rooms.

The incident Tuesday was not the first time a gun has been mishandled in the Colorado State Capitol.

State Rep. Richard Holtorf, who is running for Congress in the 4th Congressional District, dropped his gun outside the House chamber while he was headed to a vote in 2022, The Denver Post reported.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Monarch Mountain, Colorado, is mourning the recent passing of Anchin and Suka, two beloved avalanche rescue dogs.

Anchin and Suka were 13 and 14, respectively. Monarch wrote they passed "surrounded by those that loved them most."

Anchin was Colorado Rapid Avalanche Deployment (CRAD) certified, and Suka was certified in-house.

"Our hearts go out to their families and handlers," Monarch wrote.

CRADwho helped train Anchinwas formed as a non-profit dedicated to creating dog-assisted avalanche response teams in the wake of the devastating 1987 Peak 7 avalanche outside Breckenridge Ski Area's boundaries. After the lethal avalanche, it took rescuers three days to locate the victims.

With their keen sense of smell, dogs can expedite the recovery of victims who aren't wearing avalanche transceivers.

According to The Washington Post, they're particularly useful in unwitnessed avalanches where patrol teams aren't sure if there's been a burial. Instead of running a probe line, the team can rely on an avalanche dog to provide quick clues.

Worldwide, the existence of avalanche dogs dates back to the 1700s, when large St. Bernards helped monks rescue travelers in the snowy, treacherous St. Bernard Pass, which connects Italy and Switzerland.

The Smithsonian Magazine credits these brave canines with rescuing roughly 2,000 people over the course of nearly 200 years.

A 2018 blog post from Monarch provides insight into how a modern avalanche dog is trained.

The avalanche dogs first learn to recover their favorite toys from the snow's surface. As the dogs' skills progress, trainers begin burying the toy before including someone who pretends to be an avalanche victim. Eventually, the toy is removed, training the dogs to seek buried people.

While avalanche dogs, like their handlers, are hard-working employees, they're also, well, dogs, adding a cute factor to otherwise tremendously serious situations. This makes their benefit twofold.

I don't know about you, but seeing the face of a new four-legged friend after an avalanche would undoubtedly lift my spirits. Here's to Anchin, Suka, and the rest of their furry, lovable compatriots.

Related: SoCal's Big Bear Records Second Snowiest Season In History

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Commander of Air Mobility Squadron in the United Kingdom Quietly Fired by Air Force

Air Force officials quietly fired the commander of the 727th Air Mobility Squadron at RAF Mildenhall Air Base in the United Kingdom earlier this year, Military.com has learned, marking another in a string of leadership removals since the beginning of the year.

Maj. Ligel Brown was relieved of command Jan. 25, but the leadership change was not publicized in a press release or previously covered by the media. Military.com learned of the removal through a social media post, and officials later disclosed some details.

Staff Sgt. Joshua Crossman, a spokesman for the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing, the squadron's parent unit, told Military.com in an emailed statement that Brown was "relieved due to a loss of confidence in her ability to lead."

Read Next: Picture of Special Forces Soldier Wearing Nazi Patch Triggers Army Investigation

The services rarely disclose specific reasons why commanders or military leaders are fired. Officials often cite the federal Privacy Act -- which protects military records -- or simply state that it was due to a "loss of trust and confidence" instead of providing additional details or revealing whether potential misconduct happened.

Crossman did disclose that there are no ongoing investigations related to Brown and that she is no longer assigned to the 727th Air Mobility Squadron.

"There are no pending or ongoing investigations related to Maj. Brown's time in command of the 727th Air Mobility Squadron," Crossman told Military.com on Thursday.

Maj. Scott Conrad, who was previously the 727th Air Mobility Squadron's director of operations, assumed command the same day Brown was relieved.

Brown could not be reached at phone numbers listed for her in public records.

She took command of the squadron in July 2023, according to a service biography provided by the Air Force. Prior to that, she was a student at Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, and the chief of global force management for U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa.

Brown joined the Air Force in 2004 and graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Her first assignment was Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, where she was an F-15/F-16 aircraft maintenance analyst through 2009. She then commissioned as a logistics readiness officer through Officer Training School in 2010, according to her biography.

The revelation of Brown's removal comes amid a number of leadership shake-ups in the Air Force.

On Monday, Col. Danzel Albertsen, commander of the 49th Maintenance Group at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, was removed from his leadership role. And earlier this month, Air Force officials at Joint Base Charleston in South Carolina removed two commanders and reassigned one senior enlisted leader from a medical group at the base.

Related: Air Force Colonel Heading Maintenance Group at New Mexico Base Is Relieved of Command
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Jonathan Soberanis has been charged several times for crimes involving children, but never convicted because of his competency. Now, he faces federal charges  which has one mother wondering if federal evaluators will make a difference.

Over the past 10 years, every time Soberanis has been deemed not competent to stand trial, a judge has dismissed his case  including assault and sex abuse allegations.

Soberaniss forensic evaluators have listed several potential disabilities including ADHD, depressive disorder, autism, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder.

The federal investigation

For the first time, Soberanis is now facing federal charges  accused of obtaining and distributing child pornography. According to federal investigators, Soberanis used a New Zealand storage platform to download and distribute the pornography, using end-to-end encryption to conceal his tracks.

This information was used to reopen past cases in which Soberanis was found not competent to stand trial, including an instance where Soberanis was accused of sexually assaulting a 5-year-old in a bathroom and urinating on the boys feet. Additionally, a new case has been brought up in which Soberanis was accused of peeking in a boys window and trying to get into his home when he was alone.

He wanted to hurt my son  he wanted to take my sons innocence, said the boys mother, Stefani Davis.

Despite this new information, state evaluators again found Soberanis not competent to stand trial and the judge dismissed the charges.

I was screaming at my computer. I couldnt believe it, Davis said, describing the virtual hearing.

Federal vs. state

Defense attorney Mark Moffat would not comment specifically on Soberaniss case but said while competency is complicated, it is crucial to our justice system.

If they dont have that fundamental level of understanding, its not fair. It violates due process to prosecute them under those circumstances, Moffat said.

Moffat said there are many misconceptions about federal vs. state competency standards.

Competency standard is the same, whether or not youre charged in federal court or state court, he said.

When determining competency, an evaluator must answer two questions:

Can they understand basic courtroom proceedings? Can they work with their attorney to defend themselves?

And while the standard is the same, Moffat said disagreements usually stem from whether someone can adequately assist in their own defense.

If there is only one evaluator or both evaluators agree, more often than not the judge will support their finding in court.

That said, Davis still believes an out-of-state evaluator could make all the difference  as, according to her, the evaluators in Utah are not qualified.

Davis said she lost her faith in Utahs legal system the moment she met Soberanis and all she can do now is hope he will soon have his day in court.

I hope he never gets out, she said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
YANGON, April 12 (Xinhua) -- People in Myanmar are busy preparing to celebrate their traditional New Year as the annual water festival is drawing near.

The celebration of the traditional New Year festival, also known as the Thingyan water festival, this year will run from April 13 to 16, and the traditional Myanmar New Year's Day will fall on April 17.

In the country's major cities such as Yangon and Mandalay, local residents have already constructed water throwing pandals for the celebrations.

Thousands of migrant workers from the commercial hub city of Yangon have begun to leave for their hometowns in various areas in the Southeast Asian country in order to spend the holiday with their family members.

Special celebrations such as the walking Thingyan festival in some towns and the floating water festival in the Inle Lake of Shan State are also parts of this year's traditional water-splashing festival.

On Thursday evening, traditional dance troupes performed in a rehearsal for the traditional New Year celebration in Mandalay, an ancient capital in Myanmar.

Among Myanmar's 12 seasonal festivals throughout the year, the Thingyan water festival is grandly celebrated across the country with water-splashing activities and merit-making activities. 
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  To help connect young Asians with business and community leaders, the West Michigan Asian American Association held its first Asian International Leadership Summit on Friday.

The idea behind it was created following the ongoing increase in Asian hate crimes, the lack of representation of Asian Americans at every level of our communitys life and the cognition that we are losing a lot of our Asian, talented young people and professionals. And they are leaving because they dont see anyone that looks like them, Bing Goei, a Grand Rapids city commissioner and local businessman, said.

1 in 3 US Asians and Pacific Islanders faced racial abuse this year, AP-NORC/AAPI Data poll shows

The event featured keynote speakers George Aquino, vice president and managing director of AHC Hospitality, and NBC award-winning journalist Michelle Li. Four workshops with business and community leaders covered technology, education, entrepreneurship and civil leadership.

The Asian American population is under an umbrella that is approximately 50 countries, 1,400 dialects. So we have that broad representation here, though we may not be a percentage of the population, a large percentage. But we are also the fastest-growing ethnic population, not only here in Michigan but also across the country, Goei said.

The event helped to connect young Asians like Grace Tarala, a Grand Valley State University student, and Nichole Ly, a student at Ferris State University, with leaders who have a similar background.

I think its really important for fellow Asians to know there are a lot more of us out there, and we are here to support each other and help each other grow, Tarala said. It makes something that almost seems impossible for someone with my background more possible.

I think its really important to see diversity in action and really practice cross-cultural communication, Ly said. Representation is the first step to really bringing together different cultures and helping people grow as a whole.

~ News 8 reporter Meghan Bunchman contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
The votes by 19 conservative lawmakers to tank government surveillance legislation on Wednesday was the culmination of a decade of efforts to build a left-right alliance against warrantless spying. The rare setback for the intelligence community may only be temporary, though, and the federal government could soon enjoy far broader surveillance powers.

Fresh off an embarrassing defeat, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has regrouped and is moving to advance the legislation  which would reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act  on the House floor again on Friday. Lawmakers will consider one modest reform to the surveillance program as well as three measures that privacy experts say would vastly expand the governments spying powers.

One amendment would greatly increase suspicionless surveillance of immigrants  and do so at a worrying time, as Donald Trump nears a potential return to the White House on a pledge to lead an unprecedented crackdown against immigrants. Another amendment could allow agencies to force broad swaths of businesses to turn over electronic communications to the government.

This immigrant travel vetting provision would harm immigrants and U.S. citizens by expanding the warrantless surveillance of foreign-born persons seeking visas or other permission to travel to the United States, creating a new form of extreme vetting that could have significant ramifications for the immigration system, the American Immigration Council wrote in a recent letter, adding: Allowing the suspicionless search of records of foreign students, workers, and family members of U.S. citizens, could open the door for the executive branch to surveil immigrants based on improper reasons, such as their ideology or political beliefs.

Julie Mao, deputy director of the advocacy group Just Futures Law, tells Rolling Stone that the travel vetting provision would offer a political endorsement from Congress for the Homeland Security Department to use the National Security Agencys surveillance capabilities to go after immigrants and their American communities. She adds the language contains no guardrails.

Particularly in light of a potential return to the Trump administration, we should all be concerned about how this vetting program could be abused in the future to ramp up family separation and deportations  with little recourse, she says. This amendment could vastly increase the number of visa and other immigration applications denied on secretive grounds, permanently separating U.S. families.

Trump, for his part, appeared to weigh in against the Section 702 reauthorization this week. KILL FISA, IT WAS ILLEGALLY USED AGAINST ME AND MANY OTHERS. THEY SPIED ON MY CAMPAIGN!!! Trump posted on Truth Social.

The other amendment would vastly expand the types of businesses that the government could compel to turn over electronic communications to the government. Marc Zwillinger, a lawyer designated as one of nine special amici advisors at the FISA Court, recently wrote that the businesses covered by the provision would include, for example, the owners and operators of facilities that house equipment used to store or carry data, such as data centers and buildings owned by commercial landlords, who merely have access to communications equipment in their physical space.

Zwillinger added the provision could also include other persons with access to such facilities and equipment, including delivery personnel, cleaning contractors, and utility providers.

While Section 702 is supposed to be limited to foreign surveillance targets, theres ample evidence that U.S. citizens communications get swept up in the warrantless spying program  and queried without good reason.

As the American Immigration Council notes, the push to expand the governments warrantless surveillance power comes after Section 702 was misused by the FBI to target Black Lives Matter protestors after George Floyds murder. Agencies within the Homeland Security Department have also surveilled immigrant rights protestors and racial justice protestors, the letter notes.

Last year, the FISA Court disclosed that the government conducted 278,000 improper queries of raw FISA-acquired information over the span of several years, according to Reuters. Some of the violations involved queries about attendees at the violent riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and the protest that preceded it.

The amendments to expand Section 702 have been pushed by leaders in the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI). Late last year, according to a report in Wired, HPSCI chairman Mike Turner (R-Ohio) gave a presentation to Republican staffers that showed a picture of Americans protesting Israels war in Gaza  implying they may have had ties to Hamas  in order to argue against proposed FISA reforms.

One proposed reform to the program will get a vote Friday: a measure to end the backdoor search loophole, by which agencies can query an enormous database for Americans international communications looking for foreign intelligence information.

The Biden administration has come out against the amendment, saying it would rebuild a wall around, and thus block our access to, already lawfully collected information in the possession of the U.S. government, adding the extensive harms of this proposal cannot be mitigated.

Travis LeBlanc, a member of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, an independent watchdog agency, said last year that there are minimal to negligible examples of the value of these backdoor searches.

Johnson, the Republican House leader, has excluded a key measure sought by FISA reformers in the list of items up for a vote on Friday: an amendment to close the data broker loophole, by which the government can purchase Americans personal data from data brokers that it would otherwise need a warrant to obtain.

The mere possibility that Trump could be president next year makes it unconscionable for any Democrats to join Mike Turner and push to expand warrantless surveillance this recklessly, says Sean Vitka, policy director at Demand Progress.

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More affordable childcare is needed nationwide, but many centers are struggling just to cover operating costs.

Weve been in survival mode for a while, said Amy Brooks, executive director at the Early Care and Education Association.

Thats how Amy Brooks describes the current environment for childcare centers. She operated one for 20 years in New Hampshire and she said workforce is one of the biggest barriers for providers.

Trying to balance keeping childcare affordable in a payroll heavy industry and not putting that burden directly on to parents, she said.

Brooks said many providers wont raise their prices which means its difficult to boost pay for employees.

Any other small business, they charge the customer enough to help cover the cost of their workforce and their cost of operating, in child care were not able to do that, she said.

This week, Brooks voiced those concerns directly to Congress during the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

I work with these child care businesses on a daily basis and they tell me they are struggling to reach the break even point, said Brooks during the congressional hearing.

Brooks said increasing prices at child care centers means fewer families who can afford those services.

This comes as one national study found this growing child care crisis is leading to $122 billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue every year. Federal data also shows thousands of people have to stay home from work each month because of childcare problems.

Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen believes something has to change.

Families across America are relying on us to help childcare providers stay open and provide affordable care options, said Sen. Shaheen, (D) New Hampshire.

Republican Senator Joni Ernst believes states may have some of the answers. She pointed to her home state of Iowa and how the governor helped create thousands of new childcare center openings.

Governor Reynolds in my home state of Iowa is setting an example we can all learn from, she incentivized employers to provide childcare and encouraged local governments to collaborate with businesses of all sizes to address their communitys childcare shortages, said Sen. Ernst, (R) Iowa.

During the congressional hearing, some experts also suggested expanding access to various childcare options.

State and local lawmakers should consider establishing multiple levels of licensing standards with a goal of increasing those in home, faith based, and employer provided childcare, said Rachel Greszler from the Heritage Foundation

Some lawmakers want to make it easier for childcare centers to access federal funding. One proposal would allow nonprofit providers to participate in certain loan programs of the Small Business Administration
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  Republican Rep. Jen Kiggans continues to double down on her support of Israel in the ongoing Israel-Hamas War.

Over six month since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, Kiggans has been unwavering in her support for the U.S. ally. Kiggans spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives on experiences from a trip she took last week where she and some colleagues spoke with Israeli officials.

This included President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They also had a debriefing with former Israel Defense Forces military personnel, met with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew, visited sites of the Oct. 7 attacks and heard from families of current hostages held by Hamas.

Israel is  and always will be  our closest ally in the Middle East, Kiggans said. The devastation of the Oct. 7 attacks verified this war was unprovoked and Hamas must be eliminated. We must do everything in our power to provide Israel with the support they need to defend themselves. In Congress, I will continue to stand by our ally as they fight to defeat Hamas  I will not allow our enemies to become further emboldened.

She visited the site of the Nova Music Festival in Reim and spoke to the parents of an American-Israeli hostage who has now been held captive by Hamas for 188 days.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Former President Donald Trump is calling for abortion access to be left to the people of each state, and Republican candidates up and down the ballot are falling in line.

But that stance is in direct conflict with conservative lawmakers and activists efforts to keep abortion-rights initiatives off state ballots.

Their array of tactics includes several bills and ballot measures that would raise the signature-gathering or vote threshold for changing state constitutions, lawsuits to block the initiatives, bureaucratic maneuvers to insert anti-abortion language into the proposals, and street-level confrontations to dissuade voters from signing petitions to put abortion on the ballot.

The gulf between Trumps let that be to the states view and the anti-abortion movements efforts underscores divisions that have dogged conservatives for two years since Roe v. Wade was overturned.

This near-term utilitarian, means-to-an-end, political-expediency type of stance that many in the Republican Party have taken, marginalizes the unborn and undermines this cause of justice, said Jesse Southerland, the federal policy director of Americans United for Life. We dont get to choose who lives and dies. Human rights for women and the unborn shouldnt be up for a vote.

Abortion-rights measures have won overwhelmingly every time they have been on the ballot since the Dobbs decision in 2022, fueling calls on the right to take the matter out of voters hands and exacerbating tensions between Trump and the movement that helped carry him to the White House in 2016.

Some abortion opponents argue it should be harder to change the states constitution, a process they see as too vulnerable to influence from out-of-state groups. Others insist that such referendums shouldnt happen in the first place.



President Trump says that abortion should come down to the will of the people, said Lila Rose, founder of the anti-abortion group Live Action. It is not right for democratic societies to vote on the fundamental rights of unpopular minorities. There is no more unpopular minority today than preborn Americans. Abortion is not about the will of the people, its about respecting the human right that we are endowed with by our creator.

Rose said Trumps new stance means he cant credibly call himself pro-life anymore. But even anti-abortion groups that praised Trumps abortion statement, including Students for Life of America, dispute his call to leave the issue up to states, arguing that the federal government is already deeply involved in ways that range from FDA regulation of abortion pills to funding for Planned Parenthood and thus has both the right and the obligation to curb access.

Democrats and abortion-rights activists, meanwhile, are dismissing Trumps will of the people call as empty rhetoric in light of the GOPs attempts to stymie state referendums on abortion access.

When he made that statement on Monday, I nearly spit out my water, said Kelly Hall, the executive director of The Fairness Project, which is funding and advising several different abortion-rights ballot measure campaigns. It is certainly not consistent with the behavior of his fellow conservatives across the country.

Additionally, progressives stress, the leave-it-to-states line obscures the fact that roughly half of states dont allow citizens to collect signatures to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot, meaning millions of people in Texas, the Carolinas and other states with abortion bans have no way to put forward a referendum to overturn them. But for many conservatives, who believe its better for elected legislators to set abortion policy than a popular vote, this is a feature and not a bug.

People can engage their legislators  that is called the democratic process. Thats why we have this whole checks-and-balances system, said Susan Haugland, an activist with Arizona Right to Life. But when you put something so radical and so extreme in the Constitution, to get that overturned is practically impossible.



In Arizona, the GOP-controlled legislature approved a measure for the November ballot that would make it harder for citizen-led constitutional amendments to get before voters. The proposed rule would not only require hundreds of thousands of signatures, but also a certain number from each congressional district. Republican lawmakers also introduced bills to require a 60 percent supermajority vote to pass ballot measures, and to make it easier for voters to challenge ballot initiatives in court before an election.

Arizona voters ability to weigh in on abortion policy has taken new significance in the wake of a state supreme court decision upholding an 1864 law that prohibits the procedure at any stage of pregnancy, with no exemptions for rape or incest, and with mandatory prison time for doctors who dont comply. Abortion-rights groups are on their way to collecting the signatures needed to put a measure on the November ballot restoring abortion access up to fetal viability, around 24 weeks of pregnancy.

In Missouri, which also has a ballot measure campaign underway aiming to overturn the states near-total abortion ban, GOP officials have introduced nearly two dozen bills this year to make the process harder.

One requires initiatives to win a majority of votes in each congressional district. Another would require a ballot initiative to win support from a majority of registered voters in the state rather than a majority of the votes cast in that election. Another would require a two-thirds majority for passage. Others would dictate the font type, font size and margin width signature-gatherers need to use on their forms, bar out-of-state volunteers from collecting signatures, and make it harder for formerly incarcerated people to collect signatures.

They are coming up with new tricks, Hall said of the Missouri proposals, a trend she attributes to voters rejecting straightforward attempts to raise the ballot initiative vote threshold from a majority to 60 percent in Arkansas, Ohio and South Dakota over the last two years. Theres a new creativity that were seeing, and we see that creativity as a way of confusing voters.

Yet Republican state Rep. Brad Hudson and other conservatives are defending the efforts as a reasonable response to the threat of a ballot measure overriding the states current ban, and pushing back against Trumps call to leave the issue to voters.



I know of no president that has done more for the pro-life cause and the pro-life community than President Trump, but when we talk about the state of Missouri, and the fact that weve got the real possibility of something being put on the ballot that would endanger those unborn lives, I think that is immoral, wrong, unconstitutional, and Im doing what I can to fight it, he told POLITICO.

In Florida, which has a 60 percent threshold for ballot measures, GOP lawmakers are considering raising it to two-thirds. In North Dakota, lawmakers approved a measure for the November ballot that would require constitutional amendments to pass in both the primary and general election to become law. And in Mississippi, where a court struck down the states ballot initiative process in 2021, GOP lawmakers debated restoring it with a carveout barring abortion-related measures. That effort failed, leaving voters without the ability to pursue ballot measures on any subject.

Even when these GOP efforts fail to block ballot initiatives, progressive backers of the measures warn that the monthslong fights are delaying the start of signature collection and campaigning, raising fears that they will run out of time as summer deadlines loom.

In Montana, for example, the state Supreme Court recently ruled that proposed ballot language to protect abortion rights did not bundle multiple subjects together and that Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen overstepped his authority when he argued the measure was confusing and would conflict with other parts of the state constitution. But abortion-rights groups had to wait to launch their campaign until the legal fight concluded last week, leaving them only a few months to get more than 60,000 signatures.

It has eaten up a lot of time and resources, and that makes it hard to do the signature gathering, educate the public, and do all the parts we need to do to be successful, said Deirdre Schifeling, the chief political and advocacy officer for the American Civil Liberties Union. So, its frankly silly to say that Republicans want to leave abortion to the states. Every single place where were working to allow voters to decide directly, elected officials from the AG down to the state legislature twist themselves in knots in order to not let voters have a say.

Megan Messerly contributed to this report.
Conservative holdouts on Thursday appear to be warming to modifications proposed to the legislation reauthorizing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, one day after 19 of them tanked a procedural vote related to the bill delivering another embarrassing defeat to House Republican leadership.

The new version of the bill would be a two-year reauthorization instead of five years, meaning that if former President Donald Trump won the presidential election this year, the legislation would be up in time for Trump to overhaul FISA laws next time around.

We just bought President Trump an at bat. The previous version of this bill would have kicked reauthorization beyond the Trump presidency, Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida told CNN, pledging to back the rule vote on the floor, which, per a GOP leadership aide, is expected Friday morning. Now President Trump gets an at bat to fix the system that victimized him more than any other American.

The House Rules Committee voted 8-4 Thursday evening to bring the revised FISA reauthorization bill to the floor for debate.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has organized a classified reading room off the House floor for members to view classified information ahead of Fridays vote on the reauthorization of FISA, according to the aide, as he inches closer to the votes needed to pass the bill.

Johnson is hoping the classified material will convince every member that passing the FISA bill is critical to national security because there is no room for error with such a slim majority. Viewing will be available at 8 a.m. ahead of the expected 8:45 a.m. rule vote, according to the aide.

Hardliners are touting the two-year reauthorization as a major win as well as an agreement that next week they will have a separate floor vote on data privacy legislation from Republican Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio that will be subject to a rule.

Were also excited as a part of these discussions to get an absolute assurance from the speaker that next week we will have the Davidson amendment up as a rule vote, Gaetz said. Gaetz said the hardliners are really grateful at the receptiveness to some of our requests.

GOP Rep. Cory Mills of Florida said he is still undecided on the rule but signaled he is warming up to the idea following the concessions they received Republican from leadership.

I really havent made that determination, Mills said. There are some incremental changes that are getting me closer to that point.

Whether Mills actually supports the underlying legislation, however, depends on whether the Davidson amendment gets adopted, he said.

Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, who voted against the rule Wednesday, said he doesnt want to get ahead of things, but I do like the progress that is being made.

We are increasingly optimistic, but we are still having the conversations necessary obviously to get the votes, Roy said.

Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida also said she will back the rule vote.

I am hearing negotiations went well, Luna said.

South Carolina GOP Rep. Ralph Norman said he was satisfied by the changes made.

Barring anything else, I will be good, Norman said.

GOP leadership has also been in contact with Trump about changes to the bill. Majority Leader Steve Scalise told reporters earlier Thursday that members have talked to Trump about FISA over the last 24 hours after Trump called on members to kill FISA ahead of the failed rule vote.

Scalise says the new version of the bill definitely makes it a smoother path to getting it passed.

There have been some conversations with the president, and I am not going to share those conversations, but I think the two-year sunset has a lot of appeal to a lot of people, Scalise said.

Asked if it appealed to Trump, Scalise said to a lot of people.

Johnson is also slated to meet with Trump on Friday in Florida.

This story has been updated with additional developments.

CNNs Kristin Wilson contributed to this report.

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VALLEY CENTER, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  A construction flagman directing traffic was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Wednesday in the unincorporated city of Valley Center, authorities said.

The collision occurred around 7 a.m. in the 14500 block of Cool Valley Road, Officer Hunter Gerber with the California Highway Patrol said in a news release Thursday.

The construction flagman, a 37-year-old man of Fallbrook, was directing traffic on Cool Valley Road, located east of Cole Grade Road, when he was struck by a tan Toyota Corolla, according to authorities. The driver of the Toyota took off after the crash.

16-year-old killed in wrong-way crash on I-5 identified

First responders transported the victim to the hospital, where he died of his injuries.

On Thursday, CHP confirmed the arrest of the suspected driver of the Toyota as Ruperto Jesus Lopez. He was arrested and booked into the Vista Detention Facility. Lopez faces multiple charges including felony hit and run.

Authorities have not determined if alcohol or drugs played a factor in the crash.

The San Diego County Medical Examiners Office has not released the name of the construction flagman at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
COALINGA  Paul Flores, convicted in the 1996 killing of college student Kristin Smart, has been stabbed by another inmate at a California prison, officials confirmed Thursday. It marks the second time in the past nine months that he has been attacked in prison.

According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, staff saw Flores get stabbed by another inmate in the recreation yard Wednesday afternoon in Pleasant Valley State Prison, which is located in Central California's Fresno County.

Officers were able to quell the incident by just using verbal demands, CDCR officials say. Two suspected inmate-manufactured weapons have been recovered.

Flores, who is serving a sentence of 25 years to life for the murder of 19-year-old Smart  a student at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo  was taken to a medical facility outside of the prison due to his injuries in the attack, officials say. He has since already been returned to the prison and is in fair condition.

The name of the inmate who allegedly attacked Flores has not been released. The inmate suspected of attacking Flores was placed in "restrictive housing," CDCR said in a news release.

In August 2023, Flores was attacked by an inmate serving two consecutive life sentences for murder. That attack also involved a manufactured weapon.

Flores was convicted of Smart's murder in 2022. Her body has still not been found.

O.J. Simpson dead at 76 after battle with prostate cancer

Scattered Spider I Sunday on 60 Minutes

Dramatic rescue of drowning horse in Florida caught on camera
Mark Cooper will be back in court Monday to try to reach a resolution to his longstanding case.

Cooper, 57, is the former Richland County corrections officer accused of causing the death of a jail inmate in 2019.

He is charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter, one a first-degree felony, the other a third-degree felony, and reckless homicide, a third-degree felony.

Cooper's charges are in connection with the death of Alexander Rios, 28, after the inmate was subdued by several corrections officers on Sept. 19, 2019. Rios had rushed out of a holding cell.

Mark Cooper listens to opening statements during his first trial when a mistrial was declared because the jury could not reach a consensus. Hi retrial begins Monday.

In November, a jury deliberated for 12 hours over the course of three days before the foreperson sent a note to the judge saying they could not come to a consensus on any of the three counts.

Brent Robinson, Richland County common pleas judge, declared a mistrial.

Ohio Attorney General's Office to prosecute retrial

There will be some new faces in the retrial. Defense attorneys James Mayer III and Sean Boone are back to represent Cooper, but the Ohio Attorney General's Office is now handling the prosecution.

Forrest Thompson, the Medina County prosecutor, tried the first case at the request of late Richland County Prosecutor Gary Bishop because of a conflict of interest.

In January, Robinson granted the joint request of Thompson and Richland County Prosecutor Jodie Schumacher to have the Attorney General's Office take the case.

"Obviously, this case needs to be retried, and we acknowledge that as such," Thompson said at the time. "After the mistrial, I began to reach out to the Attorney General's Office for a number of issues. Number one was to determine if they had an interest in taking over the case or assisting with the case. Number two was the financial aspect."

Richland County will cover the cost of the retrial.

The family of Rios has filed a civil lawsuit against the Richland County Coroner's Office regarding the listed cause of death, which is excited delirium.

Excited (or agitated) delirium is characterized by agitation, aggression, acute distress and sudden death, often in the pre-hospital care setting.

In the first trial, prosecutors said such a diagnosis is obsolete and not recognized by a number of medical organizations.

Jurors likely to be shown Richland County Jail video numerous times

After Rios ran past several corrections officers, they chased him down and tried to restrain him.

In a jail video, several of the corrections officers can be seen holding Rios down, stepping and kneeling on his back while an officer punches his head into the concrete floor as they struggle to handcuff him.

Cooper, described during the trial as weighing 250 pounds, stood on Rios' back with both feet, which prosecutors claimed caused Rios' death.

Following the confrontation, Rios was taken to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, but he never regained consciousness. His family took him off life support eight days later.

mcaudill@gannett.com

419-521-7219

X: @MarkCau32059251

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Retrial in Richland County OH inmate death case set to begin Monday
Horse Heaven wind farm will never meet expectations

It is now April 2024. The Washington state (EFSEC) is taking final comments on restrictions for the Horse Heaven wind farm. The restrictions center around impacts on ferruginous hawks, noise, scenic views, tourism, firefighting, Yakama cultural sites, etc.

Four years ago in March 2020, Scout Clean Energy (SCE) said this wind farm would:

1) be affordable and cost-competitive

2) be reliable

3) be low-impact.

4) meet the needs of Washington communities

It also promised that 5 million metric tons CO2 annually would be avoided with the wind farm.

In response to these remarks, in May 2020 and February 2021, I asked SCE for specific technical information supporting these claims. They provided some information.

After four years I still believe this wind farm does not meet the needs of Benton County and does not live up to any of the claims by SCE (Items 1-4, which I submitted as comments to the EFSEC). It does not help save the snowpack or reduce wildfires since saving 5 million MT of CO2 translates to a temperature reduction of less than .001 degrees C. Hence, if this wind farm is built, it should be recognized that it will not meet its stated purposes.

Craig Brown, Richland

Heritage op-ed full of misinformation

EJ Antoni of the Heritage Foundation blamed Americans loss of earning power on the Fed in his op-ed in the April 7 Tri-City Herald.

This is disinformation meant to keep voters angrily rejecting the political leaders who are trying to protect the middle and lower classes from being preyed upon by agencies representing the interests of the richest 1% of Americans.

The Heritage Foundation is a champion of getting the GOP politicians elected that give tax breaks to corporations and wealthy individuals, weakening labor unions and appointing judges that favor wealthy Christian Nationalists.

The Foundation is one of the main subjects of Evil Geniuses: The Unmaking of America, a NYT bestseller analyzing loss of fairness beginning in 1980. Look up Project 2025 for an alarming view of its goals for the future.

Antonis op-ed can be shredded by anyone with a working understanding of his subject, but he and other liars rely on the speed and noise with which disinformation spreads compared with the slow and quiet pace of truthful corrections.

Greg Carl, Richland

Misinformation no fit for social media

Recently, correspondent Lesley Stahl on the CBS 60 Minutes program questioned Republican Congressman Jim Jordans claim that rejecting misinformation by social media companies suppresses free speech and violates First Amendment liberties.

The discussion centered on a pair of laws passed in the red states of Florida and Texas over the question of First Amendment rights on the internet, which were challenged and are being reviewed by the Supreme Court.

This serves as something of a warning about misinformation ahead of the 2024 general election, and on the many discussions over truth and facts surrounding the 2020 election, as well as commentary about COVID and the effectiveness of vaccines. The program segment largely blamed conservative voices such as Newt Gingrich, Marjorie Taylor Greene, President Bidens predecessor, etc., for misinformation, and it featured an academic researcher who said as much.

The court is deciding, in separate cases, whether the platforms are like news organizations with a First Amendment right to control who and what information appears on their sites, or if theyre merely transmitting everyones speech. If the laws are upheld, media platforms could be forced to carry hate speech and false medical information.

Hopefully, the court will make the right decision.

Bill Petrie, Richland
WASHINGTON, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Nicholas Lardy, a senior fellow at Washington D.C.-based think tank the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE), told Xinhua Thursday that the concept of excess capacity is "potentially harmful."

Lardy made the comments when asked how he viewed U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's recent remarks on China's "overcapacity."

"First, we don't know how to measure (overcapacity)," said Lardy.

"Second, least as discussed by U.S. officials, the idea seems to imply that no country should produce more of a product than could be sold domestically," said the U.S. economist.

"So Boeing should cut its production? U.S. soybean farmers should limit their production to what can be sold within the United States? The U.S. appears to have a comparative advantage in these products so why shouldn't Boeing and U.S. farmers produce more than can be absorbed domestically, with the 'excess' being exported?" he said.

"Similarly, for China. BYD appears to have a comparative advantage in the production of EVs (Electric Vehicles). Shouldn't we expect BYD to produce not only for the domestic market but also for export?" he continued.

"Taken to an extreme this idea would lead to a world with no trade between countries, which would be economically catastrophic," he said. 
Keir Starmer during a phone-in with BBC Radio Lancashire listeners and an interview with Graham Liver - Labour Party

When the Labour shadow cabinet meets every week, it is not uncommon for it to be shown a deck of slides spelling out election shocks of the recent past.

It is the favoured visual aid of two of the most influential figures in the court of Sir Keir Starmer  Morgan McSweeney and Pat McFadden, respectively the adviser and the MP leading the partys election campaign.

Donald Trumps surprise win in the 2016 US presidential race, when the polls predicted he was going to lose, is in there. So are a smattering of European campaigns when the tide turned late on.

The message is the one drilled into every member of the shadow ministerial team, and every Labour MP  there is no room for complacency.

For a party so far ahead in the opinion polls and set to give the Tories their worst drubbing in a century, according to a recent survey, Labour can be skittish.

Share a coffee with frontbenchers or advisers and it is clear that the ghost of 1992  and, to a lesser extent, 2015  still haunts those nervous to believe in the polls.

And so, even with this mammoth lead, there are mutterings about whether the Labour strategy is really the right one and whether, if the party does win office, it could yet come back to bite them.

Some surrounds cautiousness on policy. The leadership wants to make Labour the smallest target possible for the Tories in the campaign battle to come.

Rachel Reeves, shadow chancellor, has been nicknamed 'Dr No' by some aides - Getty/Christopher Furlong

But for shadow cabinet ministers who want to deliver change in office, frustrations abound. Rachel Reeves, the Labour shadow chancellor who preaches iron discipline on fiscal matters, has been nicknamed Dr No by some aides to other top Labour figures.

One adviser to a shadow cabinet minister said: I can totally understand the frustration if you are seeking more spending and they are saying no.

The disillusionment of the Left of the Labour party with Sir Keirs drive to win over centrist voters has been taken as a badge of pride by the leaders team.

But now concerns are bubbling about whether, when combined with the anger of Muslim voters at Labours Israel-Gaza stance, there could be some electoral impact.

On Friday, The Guardians front page splashed on the concerns of pollsters and party insiders that Labour could lose some of its target seats if loyalists abandon ship.

Bristol Central and Sheffield Hallam, former Liberal Democrat leader Nick Cleggs old seat, were picked out as two Labour-held seats packed with progressives that could be lost.

Patrick English, YouGovs director of political analytics, said: If there is a big anti-Labour feeling among Muslim and young voters, that could cost them in a big way in places where those groups make up 10-15 per cent of the population each.

If the polls are level or even if Labour is five points ahead, it could be extremely damaging for Labour and could mean they fail to win a whole host of English bellwether marginal seats.

Meanwhile, The Guardian reported that Labour membership was down, not up, even with power in the partys grasp after 14 years.

Around 23,000 members have left since the start of the year. The number, at 366,660, is still high when compared to the Tories, but lower than before the conflict in Gaza began.

A second source of jitters comes from the drive to win back voters in the Red Wall, traditionally Labour seats in the Midlands and the North that went Tory in 2019.

The Labour shadow cabinet was told this week that the party was not attracting as many Tory voters as they hoped, according to The Times.

It was also reportedly told that a third of Red Wall voters cannot remember hearing anything about Labour in the last fortnight, up from the figure before Christmas.

It is in this context that the saga around Angela Rayner, the deputy Labour leader and champion of the Left, and the question of her past living arrangements, has political bite.

Ms Rayner is facing a police investigation into the question of which home she was permanently living in that could drag on for weeks.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir, whose working class background can be missed by voters who hear his clipped southern accent in TV clips, is left to convince Red Wallers to come back to Labour himself.

Splits in Labour could become more pronounced if the polls tighten  a change expected by both Sir Keirs and Rishi Sunaks camps in the short election campaign.

Momentum, the activist group that championed Jeremy Corbyns Labour leadership, has become one of the most vocal critics of Sir Keirs regime.

When the Labour leader this week pledged to spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence and to remain committed to the Trident nuclear deterrent, Momentum issued a withering response.

A magic money tree for bombs and bullets, but not for hungry kids, said a spokesman. The core sentiment is shared more widely on the Left.

Sir Keir is coming under pressure to lift the two-child benefit cap brought in by George Osborne, the then Tory chancellor, in the austerity years. Labours current position is to keep it.

Expect calls for extra cash for social care, support on tuition fees and childcare in the months ahead as pressure builds for eye-catching policies in the manifesto.

Sir Keirs safety first strategy may well deliver victory. But that does not mean the internal mutterings will stop before polling day.

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A judge has denied an appeal for a teen, convicted of murder in a 2020 Des Moines shooting, who claimed he didnt act with malice when he fired the fatal shots.

Caimere Gates was 15 when he and 14-year-old Amanuel Maru were arrested in connection with the murder of 21-year-old Joshua Gabriel. At their trial in May 2022, prosecutors successfully argued that the shooting was the result of a drug robbery gone wrong.

Police did not release the names of the teens at the time of their arrest, although they later were tried as adults. Their identities and convictions had not previously been reported.

As summarized Wednesday by the Iowa Court of Appeals, Gates and Maru arranged in September 2020 to buy marijuana from Gabriel, and met with him and his girlfriend in their vehicle. Once in the back seat, though, Gates produced a handgun and demanded "everything they had." Gabriel and Maru then got in a scuffle outside the car, and when Gabriel fell to the ground, Gates fired two shots, fatally injuring him.

At his trial, Gates was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery. Because he was a juvenile at the time, he was not sentenced to life without parole, the mandatory Iowa sentence for an adult. Instead the court considered his age, maturity, home environment, and likely capacity for rehabilitation, and sentenced him to life in prison with a 15-year minimum before he will be eligible for parole.

From 2021: Des Moines police say 2 of 2020s 21 homicides remain unsolved

On appeal, Gates argued that while he did shoot Gabriel, he did not do so with "malice" as required for conviction under the murder statute, but that he was responding to the "sudden physical altercation" between Gabriel and Maru.

In response, the appellate court pointed to the instruction given to the jury that malice may be inferred from the use of a deadly weapon. Given that Gates indisputably wielded a gun in the killing, the jury did not overstep in finding evidence of malice aforethought, Judge Julie Schumacher wrote.

"Gates came to his meeting with Gabriel armed with a gun. Gates pointed that gun at Gabriel to rob him. And Gates shot Gabriel after Gabriel was on the ground," she wrote for the unanimous court.

More: Trial begins for man accused of killing Des Moines architect Kirk Blunck in 2016

Court records show that Maru was tried together with Gates, and also was convicted of robbery. On the murder charge, the jury did not reach a verdict, and Maru later pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of attempted murder. Because of his youth, he was transferred back to juvenile court for treatment prior to his sentencing upon turning 18, which will happen in May.

William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com or 715-573-8166.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Des Moines teen's murder conviction upheld on appeal
Update: This story has been updated with a statement from Phillips

Medical device maker Phillips formally entered into a consent decree that stops the company from selling sleep apnea machines in the United States over health concerns that include cancer.

The decree  entered in federal court in Pennsylvania on Tuesday  requires the company to hire an independent safety firm, undergo facility testing for five years and face a review of the testing of machines sent to replace recalled machines.

The company must offer a payment option as a part of a remediation plan, a first for a device recalled under a consent decree, according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials.

Phillips could be fined up to $20 million annually if they fail to uphold any part of the decree.

Under an settlement agreement with the FDA and Justice Department, Philips will not be able to sell its breathing devices and ventilators used to treat sleep apnea until it meets a number of safety regulations.

Where does Phillips go from here?

The company, which did not admit wrongdoing, first revealed that it had agreed to a consent decree in a January earnings update.

"Throughout this recall, we have provided patients with important health information by issuing numerous safety communications and have taken actions rarely used by the agency to help protect those impacted by this recall," Jeff Shuren, director of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in a statement announcing the decree's entry. "Todays action is a culmination of those efforts and includes novel provisions aimed at helping ensure that patients receive the relief they have long deserved."

The company is allowed to manufacture and distribute machines and parts that the FDA determine are "medically necessary."

"Philips Respironics will continue to prioritize completing the remediation of the sleep and respiratory care devices under Respironics voluntary June 2021 recall," Phillips said in a statement. "Millions of patients are currently using Philips Respironics sleep and respiratory care devices. Philips Respironics will be permitted to continue servicing these sleep and respiratory care devices that are already with healthcare providers and patients.

2021 recall leads to consent decree

Philips announced a recall for millions of their Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (Bi-Level PAP), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and mechanical ventilator devices in 2021.

The defect was related to a foam inside the devices that could degrade and cause users to breathe in particles and fumes as they sleep.

The company has said that there have been no reports of deaths but acknowledged that the risks of particulate exposure could possibly cause "headache, irritation, inflammation, respiratory issues and possible toxic and carcinogenic effects."

Story continues

The FDAs website says that ingesting the sound-dampening foam comes with the risks of headache, asthma, allergic reactions among more serious problems, like cancer. The agency also warned in November that the machines can overheat and in rare cases cause fires.

The FDA said in February that the recalled machines may be linked to over 500 deaths. A Phillips spokesperson denied the link between the deaths and the machines in a statement to USA TODAY at the time.

A 2023 investigation into the recall by Pro Publica and the Pittsburg Post Gazette found that Phillips had withheld complaints about the foam for over a decade before warning customers.

Phillips required to public aware of recall

In 2022, the FDA ordered the company to improve its outreach to customers about the recall and to be more transparent about the health risks of the products. The agency estimated that only about half the Americans impacted by the recall were aware it had even happened.

Philips agreed to pay at least $445 million in compensation to users of the devices under a proposed class-action settlement for people who purchased a recalled Philips Respironics CPAP, BiPAP, or Ventilator sold in the U.S. between 2008 and 2021.

In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission earlier this year, Royal Philips CEO Roy Jakobs promised that the company prioritizes patient safety and quality.

"Resolving the consequences of the ... recall for our patients and customers is a key focus area and I acknowledge and apologize for the distress and concern caused," he said. "We are fully committed to complying with the consent decree, which is an important step and provides a clear path forward."

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Adrianna Rodriguez

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Philips halts sales of sleep apnea machines over safety concerns
CPD superintendent details plan to reduce car thefts in the city

CHICAGO  Chicagos mayor and police superintendent met Friday to discuss car thefts and the new effort to catch the culprits, as warm weather approaches.

According to Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, crime sprees in the city often begin with a stolen car.

Snelling said reducing car thefts could go a long way towards reducing armed robberies and violent crimes.

If we can get a handle on stolen vehicles, we can get a handle on how these crimes are being committed, Snelling said during a press conference on Friday.

Read more: Latest Chicago news headlines

Snelling outlined what he described as the four pillars of his beefed-up strategy.

Technology, focused missions, public engagement, and accountability, Snelling said.

Two new helicopters will soon give CPD enhanced abilities to track

the car thieves without dangerous ground pursuits and commanders say there are now more resources for the departments Vehicular Hijacking Task Force

Mayor Johnson, CPD outline strategy to address and prevent robberies in Chicago

In addition to their daily operations, they conduct multiple joint operations each month that are focused on recovering stolen and hijacked vehicles, as well as apprehending those responsible, Detective Antoinette Ursitti said.

So far this year, CPD statistics show that 5,960 vehicles have been stolen citywide, often leading to armed robberies.

LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland

Mayor Johnson told reporters that it will take an all-out effort to make people feel safe.

Through this collaborative, community-driven and technology-driven approach, Im confident in our ability to investigate crimes and bring justice to our communities, Johnson said.

Superintendent Snelling also revealed a new strategy to deal with teen gatherings that have turned destructive.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Crews knock down fire at corner store in Bostons Dorchester neighborhood

Boston Firefighters knocked down a fire at a corner store in a Dorchester neighborhood Thursday night.

Crews responding to reports of a fire at 140 Norfolk Street were able to quickly contain and stop the flames from traveling to the adjacent stores, officials said. The fire was reported in the wall of the store.

In the overhauling, crews rescued, a very sweet but scared cat named Meoshu, according to the Boston Fire Department.

No injuries were reported. Damages estimated at around $300.000

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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Critics of Georgia Power's pending plan to revert to fossil fuels to meet growing electricity demand say the company should instead place more emphasis on solar energy sources. Brandon Bell/Getty Images

The states utility regulators are set to vote Tuesday on Georgia Powers proposal to increase its reliance on fossil fuels and renewable energy sources to meet skyrocketing demand.

During a hearing held Thursday, a Georgia Power representative urged the five-member Public Service Commission to support a stipulated agreement that the company says provides some financial protection to ratepayers. Nonetheless, critics of the plan complain that the companys plans are unrealistic and that a greater use of renewable energy could prevent the company from significantly expanding its carbon footprint.

The utility intends to rapidly add several thousand megawatts of electricity to its 2023 resource plan in order to supply power to a growing number of large data centers and industrial facilities.

Georgia Powers revised 2022 resource plan calls for an accelerated timeline for the company to build several natural gas or oil-fired units, extend agreements to purchase power from utility companies in other states, and construct new solar facilities.

A stipulated agreement reached between Georgia Power and PSC staff has been signed by seven intervening parties since the proposed settlement was announced on March 27.

Consumer watchdog Georgia Watch, MARTA, the Clean Energy Buyers Association, the Georgia Association of Manufacturers and the Southern Renewable Energy Association are among the groups endorsing Georgia Powers updated 2022 resource plan.

Georgia Powers attorney Steven Hewitson said the company is willing to make concessions to mitigate customer risks while completing the projects.

Approval of this agreement will preserve and protect the reliability and the quality of electric service Georgia Powers customers expect and deserve, he said. It will also support our states continued economic development while placing downward pressure on rates for all customers.

The debate over Georgia Powers utility rates has intensified over the last several years as customers faced hikes in electric base rates and paid for overrun fuel costs, coal ash cleanup and construction overages at Plant Vogtle. Georgia Power customers will soon pay more on their bills after Vogtles fourth and final unit started producing electricity last week.

Several clean energy advocates also made the case at the hearing on Thursday that state regulators amend the agreement by replacing the expanded use of fossil fuels with more renewable energy and requiring companies to increase their capacity to cover these costs in future rate cases.

Preston Thomas, an attorney representing the commissions Public Interest Advocacy staff, said that the stipulated agreement requires the utility company to make conservative revenue projections that would benefit average customers. This means that in Georgia Powers 2025 rate case, if the large load customers fail to generate enough revenue to cover the expanded capacity, then the utility company will make up the difference, he said.

The company guarantees that its 2025 rate case filing will reflect downward pressure of at least $2.89 per month to the typical residential customer, Thomas said.

Commissioner Lauren Bubba McDonald said Thursday that he would ask other board members ahead of Tuesdays vote to hold off on adopting the plans until after the November election, when the direction of federal energy policies will be clearer for the next few years.

I am not going to be comfortable supporting a couple of billion plus dollars that might have a rate impact on the residential and small commercial ratepayers in Georgia, McDonald said. I want to know what the future is going to be beyond October and beyond the early part of November before I can comfortably move on to expand energy capacity for the state.

Jennifer Whitfield, an attorney who appeared on behalf of Georgia Interfaith Power and Light at Thursdays meeting, said the settlement includes several positive plans, such as expanded solar and battery storage. She also expressed concerns that by 2028, Georgia Powers residential and small business customers could subsidize a large share of costs related to the increased energy capacity.

We know the big costs are coming after (2027), Whitfield said. This rate case has some protections built in. But after that, were still going to be paying bills and will still need more protections.

Hewitson warned that if the PSC grants any of the recent motions filed by intervenors, more parties may refuse to compromise in future utility cases if they believe they can make significant changes at the last minute.

Georgia Power has also agreed not to collect any additional fees from ratepayers until 2026 on excess electricity it purchases from natural gas-fired units operated by its sister company Mississippi Power and at a power plant in Florida.

The utility company also reached a compromise with PSC staff that allowed it to avoid the typical bidding process in order to construct a 500 megawatt solar facility with battery storage by the end of 2026. In addition, the company will expedite the competitive bidding process for another 500 megawatts of solar battery storage that will open by early 2027.

In addition, Georgia Power pledges not to recoup any construction cost overruns incurred at Plant Yates, located in Coweta County, where three natural gas or oil fired units would be built.

Georgia Power could file a request with the PSC for reimbursement of expenses resulting from circumstances beyond the companys reasonable control, such as natural disasters.

Bryan Jacobs, director of the solar energy program for the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, said that Georgia Power and regulators should follow the advice of experts who called on them to delay the Yates project until they can study if its the most effective way to bring new energy sources onto the grid.

Commissioner Tim Echols said that including a cap on construction costs for Yates provides a great level of consumer protection.

All of the anxiety that I had is really relieved by this, he said.

The utility company contends that the proposed agreement will benefit residential and small business customers, as well as support the states future economic development needs.

Under the agreement, Georgia Power is projecting that the average residential household will save around $2.89 per month on their utility bills over the next couple of years.

The next base electric rate adjustment will be made when the PSC considers the 2025 rate case.

The debate over Georgia Powers utility rates has intensified the last few years as customers cover rising fuel prices, coal ash cleanup costs, and construction overages at Plant Vogtle. Georgia Power customers will soon pay more on their bills after Vogtles fourth and final unit started producing electricity last week.

Several clean energy advocates also made the case at the hearing on Thursday that state regulators amend the agreement by replacing the expanded use of fossil fuels with renewable energy and making large industrial and manufacturing facilities pay for their expanded electric footprint in future rate cases.

If the PSC approves the stipulated agreement as it stands, it will extend the lifeline of other fossil fuel-burning plants, which will continue to pose an environmental risk to Georgians, said attorney Jennifer Whitfield, who argued on behalf of the nonprofit Georgia Interfaith Power and Light.

According to Hewitson, granting the motions discussed during Thursdays hearing could result in more parties refusing to compromise if they believe they can get changes made at the last minute.

According to Georgia Power, it is appropriate to decide how electric rate costs are split between both residential and industrial customer bases when the PSC considers the next rate case.

They want all the costs to be put on large load customers but they want the benefits of increased revenue to be shared with all customers, Hewitson said.

If a party can get what it wants by refusing to compromise on issues and then simply submit a motion seeking to amend that stipulation, then theyre not going to participate in good faith and future negotiations, Hewitson said.

Georgia Power has also agreed not to collect any additional fees from ratepayers until 2026 on excess electricity it purchases from natural gas-fired units operated by its sister company Mississippi Power and at a power plant in Florida.

In addition, Georgia Power pledges not to recoup any construction cost overruns incurred at Plant Yates, located in Coweta County, where three natural gas or oil fired units would be built.

The company could file a request with the PSC for reimbursement of additional expenses resulting from circumstances beyond the companys reasonable control, such as natural disasters.

A compromise was also reached with PSC staff that allowed the utility company to speed up building a 500 megawatt solar facility with battery storage by the end of 2026 and to expedite the competitive bidding process for another 500 megawatt solar facility projected to open by early 2027.

Hewitson said that Georgia Power is simply asking the PSC to exercise its discretion and waive the normal bidding process in order to expedite the installation of new power sources.

The post Critics pan Georgia Power fossil fuel plans ahead of state PSC hearing appeared first on Georgia Recorder.
Czechia has discovered over a million pieces of artillery ammunition around the world that can be purchased for Ukraine outside Europe.

Source: Slovak newspaper Denik N, citing Czech President Petr Pavel following the Three Seas Summit in Vilnius, as reported by European Pravda.

Details: Pavel noted that Czechia's ambition is to swiftly supply Ukraine with as much ammunition as possible.

"We have discovered about 800,000 rounds of 155-calibre artillery ammunition for Ukraine, a figure that was accurate some time ago. Now it's over a million," Pavel said.

The president added that the Czech-led initiative is not the only one. "Estonia and the United Kingdom are developing a similar one, and France has also spoken about it," he added.

Pavel said Ukraine needs a vast amount of ammunition as it anticipates a Russian offensive in the summer months.

Ukraine is not concerned about where the ammunition will come from and who will provide it, the Czech president added.

Previously:

Czechia indicated that the number of ammunition for Ukraine under its initiative could potentially grow to 1.5 million.

A total of 15 countries have joined the Czech-led initiative, including Germany, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Portugal, Belgium, Poland and Canada. Not all of them have publicly announced the amount of funds they have contributed to purchasing the shells.

Tomas Pojar, Czech Prime Minister's National Security Advisor, suggested that the ammunition purchased under the Czech-led initiative might arrive in Ukraine as early as June.

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WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Intense and very active, thats how police are describing their investigation into what they are calling a house of horrors.

Human remains were found in February inside the place on Carlisle Street in Wilkes-Barre.

A month later, the body of the longtime owner of the home was found in a wooded area of the city.

The District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce tells 28/22 News I-Team Reporter Andy Mehalshick that a man who escaped the Carlisle Street house last summer helped provide information that helped lead to five arrests in the homicide of the woman whose remains were found buried in this house in February.

The remains of 38-year-old Nicole Cuevas from Michigan were found buried in the basement of 142 Carlisle Street in Wilkes-Barre on February 27.

Investigators say Cuevas was handcuffed to a basement post and severely beaten and tortured over the course of several weeks.

On Tuesday, investigators announced that murder charges and other counts were filed against Desiree Linnette, her daughter, Sarai Doyle from Edwardsville, Jason Race and Faith Beamer from Wilkes-Barre, and William Wolfe, whose address is listed as homeless.

House of Horrors investigation intensifies

All five lived at the house at one time or another.

In late March, the body of the longtime owner of the house, 69-year-old Debra Fox, was found in a wooded area near the North Cross Valley Expressway. Her death has not been called a homicide.

Mehalshick asked District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce if homicide charges were forthcoming in the death of Fox.

So its too early to comment on further arrests. Obviously, five people were arrested in the death of Nicole Cueva. If we were able to prove in fact Debra Foxs death is a homicide, then we would expect more homicide charges to follow from that fact, Sanguedolce said.

Sangedolce also confirms that a man, Anthony Cook, escaped the Carlisle Street home in July 2023 after he says he was held captive and assaulted by people in the house.

This is after he was accused by the residents of the house of molesting a child in that house.

28/22 News was able to get a video taken when police were investigating the child abuse allegations.

According to the DA, Cook provided information that helped lead to the homicide charges filed against the five suspects on Tuesday.

So police responded, investigating that incident at that time, the victim was less than cooperative or at least became less cooperative. He has subsequently come around and more details flow from the 142 Carlisle Street house. We were able to make some arrests, details to those arrests have been sealed, Sanguedolce explained.

28/22 News will continue to work on this story as new information becomes available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
A Georgia man convicted of poisoning his newborn will spend decades in prison, police say.

Curtis Jack was given a 50-year sentence after a jury found him guilty on charges connected to the antifreeze poisoning that sickened his infant daughter, the City of South Fulton Police Department said April 11.

Jack will serve 40 years behind bars, followed by 10 years on parole, authorities said.

On Oct. 1, 2020, investigators said he picked up bottles of breastmilk from his childs mother, who was hospitalized after giving birth weeks earlier. The two had been in a romantic relationship since January of that year, and Jack insisted that she end the pregnancy, according to police.

Jack dropped off the bottles to the childs grandmother, who was watching the infant and the womans other daughter, according to authorities.

Within 24 hours, the baby fell critically ill from a possible poisoning, investigators said.

Jack acknowledged adding antifreeze to the breastmilk during an interview with South Fulton Police Department detectives, police said.

The engine coolant is used in vehicles and can be extremely toxic if ingested, even in small amounts, according to PoisonHelp.org. Symptoms can be delayed and include drowsiness, vomiting, kidney damage and death, experts said.

During the trial, the State presented testimonies from the childs mother, grandmother, law enforcement officers, and medical experts, including a demonstration of how easy it was to poison the breastmilk, police said.

Authorities didnt give an update on the childs condition.

The City of South Fulton is about a 20-mile drive southwest from downtown Atlanta.

Former NFL scout poisoned pregnant girlfriend, killing her and unborn child, cops say

Antifreeze found in dog bowls around neighborhood where pet was shot, Indiana cops say

Man dies after one of his venomous pet Gila monsters bites him, Colorado cops say
Apple TV+ has unveiled the official trailer for its new sci-fi thriller series, Dark Matter.

Based on the blockbuster book by New York Times bestselling author Blake Crouch, the series stars Jennifer Connelly, Joel Edgerton, Alice Braga, Jimmi Simpson, Dayo Okeniyi and Oakes Fegley.

Heres the official description:

Hailed as one of the best sci-fi novels of the decade, Dark Matter is a story about the road not taken. The series will follow Jason Dessen (played by Edgerton), a physicist, professor, and family man who  one night while walking home on the streets of Chicago  is abducted into an alternate version of his life, the synopsis reads. Wonder quickly turns to nightmare when he tries to return to his reality amid the mind-bending landscape of lives he could have lived. In this labyrinth of realities, he embarks on a harrowing journey to get back to his true family and save them from the most terrifying, unbeatable foe imaginable: himself.

Crouch serves as creator, showrunner and writer. He executive alongside alongside Matt Tolmach and David Manpearl for Matt Tolmach Productions. Edgerton also serves as executive producer. Dark Matter is produced for Apple TV+ by Sony Pictures Television.

Dark Matter will premiere globally on Apple TV+ with the first two episodes May 8 on Apple TV+, followed by one new episode every Wednesday through June 26.

Watch the official trailer for Dark Matter below:
SYDNEY, April 12 (Xinhua) -- A woman was rushed to hospital on Friday with a head injury after being stabbed near an iconic beach in the Australian city of Sydney.

Shortly before 11:00 a.m. local time, police officers were called to Roscoe Street in the suburb of Bondi Beach after receiving reports of a stabbing.

Paramedics treated the 36-year-old woman at the scene before she was transported to hospital in a stable condition.

As per a statement by the New South Wales Police Force, a crime scene has been established with investigations underway into the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.

Roscoe Street is one of the most bustling paths in the heart of Bondi, linking up multiple shops and eateries while leading down towards the well-known beach.

The popular tourist attraction is located less than seven kilometers east of Sydney's central business district, reportedly welcoming more than 2 million visitors every year. 
On This Day, April 12: U.S. Navy SEALs rescue Capt. Phillips from pirates

Richard Phillips takes his seat prior to testifying before a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on confronting piracy on April 30, 2009, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. On April 12, 2009, U.S. Navy SEALs rescued Phillips, held hostage by pirates off the Somalia coast, by killing three of the kidnappers four days after the standoff began. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

April 12 (UPI) -- On this date in history:

In 1861, the Civil War began when Confederate troops opened fire on Fort Sumter in South Carolina.

In 1945, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the longest-serving president in U.S. history, died of a cerebral hemorrhage at Warm Springs, Ga., three months into his fourth term. About 3 hours later, Vice President Harry S. Truman was sworn in as chief executive.

In 1955, U.S. health officials announced that the polio vaccine developed by Dr. Jonas Salk was "safe, potent and effective."

In 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, in Vostok 1, became the first human to travel to outer space and the first to orbit Earth.

Space Shuttle Columbia launches for the first time on April 12, 1981, at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. File Photo courtesy of NASA

File Photo by Michael Levkin/UPI

In 1975, the U.S. military evacuated Americans from the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, as part of Operation Eagle Pull. The evacuation came as the communist Khmer Rouge seized the capital city to end a five-year war.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt sits at his work table near the hearth at the "Little White House" in Warm Springs, Ga. On April 12, 1945, Roosevelt, the longest-serving president in U.S. history, died of a cerebral hemorrhage at Warm Springs, Ga. File Photo courtesy FDR Presidential Library

In 1976, Knopf published Anne Rice's debut novel, Interview with a Vampire, the first of a series of several books. The book was adapted into a movie starring Tom Cruise in 1994.

In 1981, the Columbia was launched on the first U.S. space shuttle flight. The crowd of more than 3,000 VIPs oohed-and-aahed, shouting, "Go Baby Go," and staring into the bright early-morning sky long after Columbia was out of sight over the Atlantic Ocean.

U.S. Marines assist in the evacuation of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on April 12, 1975. File Photo courtesy of the U.S. Navy

In 2003, Gen. Amir al-Saadi, Saddam Hussein's top science adviser, denied Iraq had any weapons of mass destruction and surrendered to U.S. forces.

In 2007, Kurt Vonnegut Jr., whose novels such as Slaughterhouse-Five resonated with a generation, died in New York at the age of 84.

Anne Rice signs copies of her new book "Christ the Lord" at Posman's Bookstore at Grand Central Station in New York on November 1, 2005. On April 12, 1976, Knopf published Anne Rice's debut novel, Interview with a Vampire, the first of a series of several books. File Photo by Laura Cavanaugh/UPI

File Photo by Ezio Petersen/UPI

In 2009, U.S. Navy SEALs rescued a U.S. ship captain, Richard Phillips, held hostage by pirates off the Somalia coast, by killing three of the kidnappers four days after the standoff began. The incident inspired the 2013 Tom Hanks movie, Captain Phillips.

On April 12, 2002, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez was overthrown in a military coup. He was returned to office two days later riding a wave of public sentiment. File Photo by Anatoli Zhdanov/UPI

In 2012, North Korea, defying international warnings, fired a long-range test rocket but the launch ended in failure. U.S. officials said the rocket broke up and fell into the sea.

In 2022, a gunman opened fire at a Brooklyn subway station, injuring 29 people. Frank James pleaded guilty to federal terrorism charges and was sentenced to life in prison in 2023.

In 2023, New York City named Kathleen Corradi its first-ever "rat czar" to tackle the Big Apple's growing rat population.

File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI
Two doctors, including one from Dayton, have been sentenced to prison for their roles in a fraudulent urine drug testing scheme.

Dr. William Siefert, 70, of Dayton, and Dr. Timothy Ehn, 51, of Union, Kentucky, were both convicted in March 2023 of healthcare fraud. Ehn was also convicted of conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.

>> Over 80 suffering animals seized from unsanitary conditions at Ohio farm

On Thursday, Siefert was sentenced to one year and six months in prison and was ordered to pay over $1.9 million in restitution. Ehn was sentenced to two years and six months in prison and was ordered to pay over $3.7 million in restitution.

Ehn and Siefert were convicted in connection to orchestrating a scheme in which staff at a Kentucky pain clinic billed for urine drug tests that were not medically necessary but were lucratively reimbursed by taxpayer-funded insurance providers like Medicare and Medicaid. According to the United States Department of Justice.

Ehn was the clinics owner and Siefert was the clinics medical director.

>> Ex-substitute teacher sentenced for inappropriate relationship with Ohio student

The pair continued in their scheme even as their expensive drug testing machine malfunctioned because it was not properly maintained, which caused the machine to produce results that falsely suggested patients were testing positive for street drugs like ecstasy or heroin.

The defendants enriched themselves through a fraudulent urine drug testing scheme that cost Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance companies over $4 million, said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said a woman was arrested for threatening officers and barricading herself during an eviction.

Just before noon on Wednesday, members of the U.S. Marshals Service were trying to evict a woman from her apartment in the 4000 block of Cathedral Ave. in Northwest D.C. They knocked on her door and said they were there to serve an eviction. The woman said she would shoot them.

MPD officers responded to the situation and declared it a barricade.

Car hits person, wall at Howard University

During the barricade, the woman took out her gun and pointed it at the officers twice.

Officers were able to place her under arrest after seven hours without any incident for two counts of assault on a police officer and threats to kidnap or injure a person.

She was identified as 59-year-old Camille Ceasar. Multiple rounds of ammunition and a gun were found inside her apartment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Death toll from 10 April Russian missile attack on Odesa Oblast rises to six

The death toll from a Russian missile attack on Odesa Oblast on 10 April has risen to six, as a man who had been injured in the bombardment died in hospital.

Source: Ukrainian Prosecutor's General Office on Telegram

Quote: "The death toll from the enemy attack on Odesa Oblast on 10 April has risen to 6. Unfortunately, a man, 56, has died in hospital today [12 April]."

Background:

On 10 April, Russia attacked Odesa Oblast, presumably with an Iskander-M ballistic missile, killing four people, including a 10-year-old girl. 14 people were hospitalised.

Later, it became known that the death toll of the 10 April ballistic strike on Odesa Oblast increased to five. One of the men injured in the attack died in hospital.

The authorities of the city of Odesa and Odesa Oblast have declared 12 April a day of mourning for the people killed in a Russian missile strike on the Odesa district.

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Death toll from Russian attack on Mykolaiv rises to 5

A man who was injured in a Russian attack on Mykolaiv on April 11 has died in hospital, Mykolaiv Oblast Governor Vitalii Kim reported on April 12, bringing the death toll from the attack to five.

Explosions were reported in Mykolaiv at around midday, shortly before warnings of a possible missile attack against the city.

Kim reported earlier on April 12 that five people had been killed and six people were injured, among them a teenage girl who was treated at the scene.

The man who later died in hospital was 37 years old, Kim said.

The military said the strike damaged residential buildings, industrial facilities, and cars.

Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych told a Kyiv Independent reporter that the strike targeted an old industrial facility.

According to Kim, preliminary evidence suggests that Russian forces used a ballistic missile to attack the city.

Mykolaiv had a pre-war population of 470,000 but now lies roughly 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of the front line, making the city and the surrounding region a target of Russian forces.

Read also: Mayor: Russias war causes at least $2.9 billion in damages to Mykolaiv

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The death toll of a Russian missile strike against Odesa Oblast on April 10 has risen to six after an injured 56-year-old man died in the hospital, the Prosecutor General's Office said on April 12.

Russian forces struck the southern region in the evening hours of April 10. Regional authorities reported at the time that four people, including a 10-year-old girl, were killed and 14 were injured.

Russia attacked Odesa Oblast with Iskander-M ballistic missiles from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. local time, Governor Oleh Kiper said without specifying how many missiles hit the region. Transport infrastructure and trucks were damaged in the attack, according to Kiper.

Ukraine's southern regions are frequent targets of Russian attacks. A March 29 Russian missile strike on Odesa injured at least five people, including three children, according to local officials.

On April 11, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine, hitting energy facilities in five oblasts, including in Odesa Oblast.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russia launches large-scale attack, destroys critical energy infrastructure

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
WELLFLEET, Mass. (WPRI)  A historical discovery was made on a beach in Massachusetts last week.

Officials with the Cape Cod National Seashore shared an image of an object that washed ashore on Marconi Beach in Cape Cod, identifying the device as the fuselage of a Remote Control Aerial Target (RCAT)  a type of drone plane used in the 1940s and 1950s.

WATCH: Gator grabs underwater drone during marine unit training

According to park historian Bill Burke, these RCATs were launched from aircraft based out of Wellfleet, Massachusetts, and then controlled remotely by personnel on the ground.

They were mainly used for training or target practice by military members in a former training camp in Wellfleet, Burke said.

The NPS also shared an image of the RCAT as it appeared during training.

Courtesy of NPS/Hohman, NPS Archives

Courtesy of NPS/Hohman, NPS Archives

Courtesy of NPS/Hohman, NPS Archives

Military artifacts found near the former site of Camp Wellfleet have previously been donated to the Cape Cod National Seashore, according to an unofficial site dedicated to the history of the training facility. Engine parts and ammunition are also among the discoveries made near the camp, the site says.

The operators of the website also warn visitors to never touch any military objects they find in the area.

If you think you may have found something historically significant mark its location and notify a [representative] of the Park Service, the site urges.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
After decades of silent protest, advocates and students speak out for LGBTQ rights

After nearly three decades of holding annual silent protests to raise awareness for LGBTQ rights, students across the nation are speaking out Friday spurred by the recent spate of laws aimed at limiting the rights and visibility of LGBTQ Americans.

This year, for the first time, the Day of Silence  a yearly event where students take a vow of silence to symbolize the impact of homophobia and the LGBTQ voices that are marginalized by bullying  will morph into a day of action called the Day of (NO) Silence.

GLSEN, an LGBTQ education and advocacy organization that works to end intolerance and homophobia in schools, helps organize the student-led demonstrations each year.

Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, executive director of the organization, said from now on the event will encourage students to use their voice to speak out against bigotry and homophobia.

The imperative to take action has never been greater, Willingham-Jaggers told CNN. Instead of observing silence, we are embracing a proactive stance with the Day of (NO) Silence by rising up and taking action.

Students are encouraged to share their own stories, register to vote and write their representatives to demand changes to Title IX that would further protect LGBTQ youth.

GLSEN said students who feel unsafe or uncomfortable speaking out also have the option to silently protest.

In 2023, at least 510 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures, according to data from the American Civil Liberties Union. The organization is currently tracking more than 480 bills that restrict LGBTQ rights in the 2024 legislative session.

In 2022, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Parental Rights in Education bill, which has since been dubbed the Dont Say Gay law because it prohibited classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in all grades.

Originally, the law only prohibited classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity for students in kindergarten through third grade, but in 2023 the Florida Department of Education approved a proposed rule that would expand that prohibition to all grade levels.

Last month, a legal settlement clarified the scope of law and said students and teachers can discuss sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms, as long as it is not part of formal instruction.

Cameron Driggers, a 19-year-old gay freshman at the University of Florida, said he feels compelled to speak out because of the Dont Say Gay law, not only for himself but for others.

Driggers said the anti-LGBTQ laws are like having a target on your back and knowing that you are the other.

I just dont accept that, he told CNN. It certainly doesnt feel safe or comfortable living in a state that constantly targets my people, like me and my community.

But, he added, the Day of (NO) Silence helps him to feel hopeful.

Im able to see a future that is much more, thats progressive and actually works for all Floridians, Driggers said.

Driggers said he plans to join other activists in Orlando Friday to discuss how they can mobilize for LGBTQ rights.

I continue to organize and empower young people to find hope in themselves so that they know that what theyre fighting for is possible and achievable, he said.

Rep. Becca Balint, D-Vt., speaks during a news conference with members of the Congressional Equality Caucus on the "Day of (NO) Silence." - Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc./Getty Images

During a news conference in front of the US Capitol Friday, members of the Congressional Equality Caucus, parents of LGBTQ students and organizers from GLSEN called for inclusive policies that protect LGBTQ students.

Lawmakers also criticized some of their Republican colleagues who have supported what they see as anti-LGBTQ legislation, like the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which passed the GOP-led House last April and sought to prevent transgender women and girls from participating in sports at federally funded schools. The Democratic-controlled Senate did not take up the bill, CNN previously reported.

To mark the annual Day of (No) Silence, Democratic lawmakers also introduced a resolution to support the Rise Up for LGBTQI+ Youth in Schools Initiative. Lawmakers said the resolution was a call to action to communities across the country to demand equal educational opportunity, basic civil rights protections, and freedom from erasure for all students in K12 schools.

Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz, a Democrat who co-sponsored the resolution, said Democrats wanted to send a clear message: politicians should leave LGBTQ children alone.

Leave the children alone. Let them be kids. Queer kids, straight kids, somewhere in between. Theyre kids, Schatz said during the news conference. Let em study, let em go to school, let em walk to school, let em walk to the next class without being bullied or harassed.

Silence speaks volumes

In April 1996, Maria Pulzetti held a silent protest for LGBTQ rights at the University of Virginia. She said she had no way of knowing her idea would ultimately grow to become a youth movement.

Pulzetti said she was inspired to start the demonstration while taking a class on the Civil Rights Movement and wanted to use a non-violent method to draw attention to voices that were not being heard in her college community.

Students who participated remained silent the entire school day and gave out cards explaining that they were being silent to raise awareness of issues facing the LGBTQ community, like homophobia and discrimination.

The following year, Maria and her classmate, Jesse Gilliam, expanded the Day of Silence to other college campuses. Students marked the end of the demonstration with speeches and poetry.

Being silent itself has never been the goal, thats always been a tactic, Gilliam told CNN. The goal for me [was] to demonstrate to the world how important the voices of LGBTQ youth are, and how damaging homophobia and transphobia is to all of us.

Blaine High School students hold a rally and press conference just off school property at the end of the school day on April 15, 2010. - Marlin Levison/Star Tribune/Getty Images

Gilliam said while the silent demonstration has been effective for many years, both he and Pulzetti understand why students feel compelled to speak out, especially in the current climate.

Pulzetti said shes heard from many, many young people that the environment in schools right now  especially in states where there are so many of these anti-LGBTQ bills proposed or already made into law  is that people are frightened  And I think speaking out against that very loudly is extremely important.

Last August, North Carolina state Republicans overrode the governors vetoes to pass a series of anti-LGBTQ laws that targeted transgender youth, CNN previously reported.

Sean Radek, an 18-year-old transgender high school senior in North Carolina, said he doesnt feel safe living in the state.

As a trans person, it really does scare me to stay here just because Im not sure what my future holds with this state, but I dont think its a very bright future, Radek told CNN.

Kai, a 13-year-old transgender middle school student in neighboring South Carolina, told CNN they have faced bullying for over a year and its taken a toll on their mental health  so much so that they transferred schools.

Kai said they were unaware of the Day of Silence campaign and that if their school held an event, it would give LGBTQ students some much needed support.

The fact that our school has never made [us] aware, for queer rights  It breaks my heart, Kai said.

Kais mother, Amanda, said shes also worried about her childs safety and asked CNN not to use their last name. The family has even considered moving from the state out of fear.

Everybody right now in the United States is very afraid to send their children to school because of school shootings and things of that nature, Amanda said.

When you have an openly queer child, you add to that fear. Think about poor Nex [Benedict]  Im so terrified that Im gonna be that next parent that gets that phone call.

Nex Benedict, a nonbinary high school 10th grader in Oklahoma, died the day after they told their family they were involved in a fight at school.

Willingham-Jaggers said shes heard from many educators and students who are embracing the pivot away from silence to action during this years protest.

LGBTQ+ students have been silenced for too long, Willingham-Jaggers said. Weve seen tens of thousands of students participate and were expecting this year to be our biggest year in recent history.

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JERUSALEM, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Israel's wartime cabinet has been convened following alerts of an imminent retaliatory attack from Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Friday.

In a statement, Netanyahu called for a "situation assessment discussion" to address preparations for a potential Iranian attack. The meeting includes Defense Minister Yoav Galant, as well as ministers Benny Gantz, Gadi Eisenkot, and Ron Dermer.

Israel's state-owned Kan TV news reported that Netanyahu's office will hold an 'urgent briefing' for the directors-general of all government ministries later on Friday.

Israel's National Fire & Rescue Services and the police were also holding a situational assessment meeting to discuss preparations for a possible attack, according to a statement released by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir's office.

CBS News, citing two U.S. officials, reported that "a major Iranian attack against Israel was expected as soon as Friday, with possibly dozens of drones and missiles targeting military sites inside the country."

On Friday morning, several countries, including Britain, France, and India, issued warnings advising their citizens to avoid visiting both Israel and Iran.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesman Daniel Hagari said on Thursday that the military is "highly alert" and prepared for any attack.

Iran repeatedly stated it would launch an attack to punish Israel for allegedly killing seven Iranian military advisors in an airstrike on Iran's consulate in Syria on April 1. 
"This is Lillian Orlich, giving and giving and giving."

Courtesy Prince William County Public Schools

Even in her death, a beloved Virginia teacher and counselor has found a way to serve the school and students where she once worked.

Lillian Orlich died in early March at age 95, leaving behind $1 million to the education foundation SPARK, the Prince William County School districts education foundation. Orlich spent 64 of her 67 years in education at Prince William County Schools, first as a teacher and then as a counselor.

We are deeply saddened by Ms. Orlichs passing, but the footprints shes left in our hearts and minds can never be erased," Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, Prince William County Superintendent of Schools said in a release.



Her legacy lives on in the lives of the students and staff she impacted.

Orlich, or Mrs. O as she was known on campus, began her career at age 22. She taught English, American and European History before becoming a school counselor

In 2013, told WUSA that a highlight for her was when students would come in and say, Ms. Orlich, you taught my grandad!

Orlich consistently arrived to work at Osbourn Park High School so early that she was given keys to open up.

She wanted to make sure she got all of the paperwork done so she could spend her time when the students were there with the students," Prince William School Board member Lisa Zargarpur told WUSA.

Orlichs generous gift came as no surprise to Zargarpur.

This is Lillian Orlich, she said, Giving and giving and giving.

When she retired in 2017 at age 89, Mrs. O created a $2500 scholarship for a graduating senior at Osbourn Park.

Orlichs $1 million donation will be used to expand that scholarship and will also be distributed across the foundations six focus areas, which include educator preparedness; science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education; and social and emotional learning.

Miss Lillian Orlichs devotion to this community is unprecedented because she dedicated her lifes work over the course of the last 3 quarters of a century investing in our future leaders, Melissa Boyle, President of the SPARK Board of Directors said in a release.

We are so very honored and proud to continue her legacy through this generous gift. This is a rare and an inspirational moment in this school system.

Per her wishes, Orlichs funeral was held at the Osbourn Park High School Auditorium that was dedicated to her in 2003 and her obituary included the message, I am survived by the many lives helped and touched by my teaching, loving and caring."

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Read the original article on Southern Living.
After over three years of research and planning, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized drinking water standards for forever chemicals, or PFAS, on Wednesday.

Over the next few years, water utility systems will begin to be held accountable for any exceedances of the newly approved limit, which is estimated to reduce exposure to the dangerous chemicals for hundreds of millions of people around the country.

According to an analysis by USA TODAY, around 35 million people through 608 systems across the country are living in areas that are not in compliance with the new limits for PFAS, including over 200,000 in Delaware.

What are PFAS?

PFAS, which stands for per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a class of chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of manufacturing processes over the years that potentially cause adverse health impacts upon consumption. Due to their longevity in the environment, they often are referred to as forever chemicals.

PFAS in Dover: Forever chemicals found in private wells near Dover. Here's what to know

Experts warn that PFAS contamination can cause adverse health effects. It has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible carcinogen.''

Elevated levels can lead to increased cholesterol levels and liver problems. Pregnant people exposed to elevated PFAS levels are considered to be at a higher risk of increased blood pressure or pre-eclampsia and that may result in lower birth weights in newborns.

What are the EPA's new standards?

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan speaks at a press conference announcing the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS chemicals on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the Hoffer Water Treatment Facility in Fayetteville.

The federal Environmental Protection Agency has cracked down on the monitoring and treatment of the chemicals for the past few years. Last year, the EPA began requiring thousands of water systems to test for more than two dozen types of PFAS, in an unprecedented, widescale effort to track their spread across the United States.

On Wednesday, April 10, the EPA finalized the national standard for the maximum amount of PFAS that drinking water systems can detect. This level is now officially set at 4 parts per trillion.

The EPA estimates that between 6% and 10% of the countrys public drinking water systems will need to take corrective action to remain in compliance, which is estimated to cost around $1.5 billion annually, to monitor water systems, communicate with communities and installing treatment technologies where necessary.

SAN ANSELMO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 06: In this photo illustration, water from a tap fills a glass on July 06, 2023 in San Anselmo, California. According to a study by the US Geological Survey, nearly half of the tap water in the United States is contaminated with "forever chemicals" that are considered dangerous to human health. Per and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, or PFAS, are chemicals that linger in the body and are linked to health issues like cancer, obesity, liver damage, decreased fertility, thyroid disease, high cholesterol and hormone suppression. (Photo Illustration by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Many drinking water systems across the country, especially in major metropolitan areas, will need to take remediation actions to stay in compliance with these new standards. However, the regulation sets up a timeline so that water systems have time to perform clean up and mitigation processes.

Water systems must complete initial monitoring tests by 2027. Between 2027 and 2029, the results of the monitoring must be communicated to the public in annual Consumer Confidence Reports, including any violations. Starting in 2029, water systems must remain in compliance with all maximum contaminant levels and notify the public of any violations.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law set aside $9 billion specifically to invest in communities with drinking water systems impacted by PFAS and other emerging contaminants, including $1 billion for private well owners.

Is Delaware in compliance?

According to an analysis from USA TODAY found that 608 systems across the country are currently in violation with these standards, impacting nearly 35 million people in total.

This map shows water systems that tested at or above newly established PFAS limits since last year. Its based on boundaries developed by SimpleLab, a water testing company. Click on a system to see which pollutants surpassed the limits and ow much the most concentrated pollutant exceeded those levels.

Delaware currently has five water systems with detections above the new PFAS limits, impacting over 266,000 people in the state.

These water systems include Stage Village MHC in Dagsboro, Artesian Southern Sussex Regional in Newark, Newark Water Department, Veolia Water Delaware Inc in Wilmington and the Wilmington Water Department.

Of these five water systems, Veolia Water showed the highest levels of PFAS above the new requirement, showing a detection 422.5% above the allowed limit and impacting over 100,000 people in the Wilmington area.

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Michael Bard, manager of communications and community relations for Veolia Water said the company is in the process of upgrading their water treatment plants system, which began construction in November 2023 and should be in operation by early 2025.

Delaware and PFAS

Delaware has found itself in the middle of many PFAS-related litigation and cleanup efforts.

In 2021, DuPont, Corteva and Chemours settled with the state of Delaware for decades of contamination in the states waterways and environment.

Last year, Attorney General Kathy Jennings filed suit against 3M and 12 other companies, claiming Delawares natural resources and public health have been jeopardized by forever chemicals.

The city of Newark also joined two class-action suits in December 2023 against 3M and DuPont related to PFAS contamination.

As recently as last month, towns like Little Creek have found high levels of PFAS in local water supplies.

Molly McVety covers community and environmental issues around Delaware. Contact her at mmcvety@delawareonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @mollymcvety.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: 5 Delaware water systems don't meet EPA standards for PFAS. What to know
Delaware woman accused in sextortion plot to blackmail $6M from victims in US and UK

Teenage boys and young men have been targeted by an international sextortion plot (Stock image) (Getty Images)

A group including a woman from Delaware are accused of trying to blackmail young men and boys out of millions of dollars, after posing as young women and filming the victims engaging in sexual acts online.

The US Department of Justice announced Friday that Hadja Kone, 28, from Wilmington, had been arrested over her alleged role in the so-called sextortion scheme.

Ms Kone and other co-conspirators are accused of operating an international, financially motivated scheme which included cyberstalking, money laundering and wire fraud.

The group successfully blackmailed some of the thousands of victims across the United States, United Kingdom and Canada out of $1.7 million, but the goal was $6 million, the DOJ said.

According to charging documents, Ms Kone and others, including Siaka Ouattara - a 22-year-old in Abidjan, Cote dIvoire - posed as young, attractive females online.

They promised their victims sexual photos, videos or live webcam sessions, even though they were the ones operating the accounts.

Then, when the victims either exposed their genitals or performed other sexual activity, Ms Kone and others allegedly secretly filmed them.

Victims were then sent copies of those images or videos, with threats that they would be sent to the victims friends, family or employers, as well as being shared widely on the internet, unless they handed over money.

The DOJ alleges that Kone, Ouattara and others had a framework in place to launder the cash to people in Cote dIvoire and elsewhere overseas.

Victims are often targeted through social media, according to the FBI (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Ouattara was arrested in February on similar charges, with authorities in Cote dIvoire working with the FBI on the case.

Both are charged with conspiracy to commit cyberstalking and to send interstate threats, conspiracy to engage in money laundering, money laundering, and wire fraud. If convicted, they face up to 20 years for each count.

In 2022, the FBI warned that sextortion cases affecting teenage boys had risen sharply, with some 3,000 reported victims that year alone.

Most victims were aged between 14 and 17, but could be as young as 10, the agency said.

One of those victims was Jordan DeMay, a 17-year-old in Michigan who took his own life after he was blackmailed by Nigerian men posing as a woman. They blackmailed him for $1,000.

The boy only had $300 and was subjected to continued threats before he ended his life.

According to the FBIs 2022 report, Jordan is not alone in feeling like this was his only option.

Victims may feel like there is no way outit is up to all of us to reassure them that they are not in trouble, there is hope, and they are not alone, said FBI Director Christopher Wray in a statement at the time.

With much of this type of crime taking place on social media, Instagram owner Meta announced this week that it will test a nudity screening tool in its messaging apps.

The change would automatically blur nude photos for those under 18, with messages from the app reminding users they should not feel pressure to respond in kind.

The option to message users who are under-age will also be removed for suspicious profiles, the company said.
Delhi Unified School District held a ribbon cutting ceremony this week to celebrate its new multi-million dollar career technical education building  and its already a hit with the students.

The CTE building, which had been in the works the past eight years, cost roughly $10 million.

Students can start taking classes in agricultural mechanics and welding inside the new 15,000 square-foot facility by the upcoming fall semester.

Delhi Unified School District Superintendent Jose Miguel Kubes said during Tuesdays ceremony that every CTE course to be offered in the fall was already filled. The classes sizes range from 20 to 30 students.

What this building represents is us being able to amplify the opportunities that our students are going to get, Kubes said, and the skillset that theyre going to have.

People tour the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Delhi Unified School District Superintendent Jose Miguel Kubes speaks to attendees during a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Career and technical education

Kubes said the purpose of the CTE pathways is to provide students with vocational training opportunities while in school. So when the time comes for the students to leave the district, they have CTE skills to use for a career in the Central Valley.

The district also plans to offer opportunities to middle school students to use the facility and receive CTE training.

Right now, what were looking to do is first establish the high school pathways with the fundamental courses,  Kubes said. As those courses begin to take fruition, the high school and middle school leadership team are working together to identify what opportunities we can start providing to our middle school students. Because we want to develop a pathway that actually starts from middle school.

Our goal is that by 2027, Kubes said, were the premier district in Merced County.

A classroom inside the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Equipment inside the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Ready to join workforce

Funding for CTE facility and supplies came from the Bond Measure W, which passed in 2016 and authorized the use of $12 million for the building.

According to Kubes, the school district has already secured two teachers for the CTE program. One of the teachers already is working within the district.

In addition, a Delhi Unified School District student will be graduating in May with an Associate of Arts Degree through a dual enrollment program.

So we want to prepare our students that want to go to college so they can actually leave prepared, but also our students that want to follow the technical career pathway so they can leave here with certification, Kubes said. So what we want for the future is that students are able to leave already ready to join the workforce.

A welding station inside the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Equipment inside the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Delhi High School Principal Ed Taylor speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

Students and members of the public look on during a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.

_ during a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Career and Technical Education building on the Delhi Unified School District campus in Delhi, Calif., on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. According to the district, classes in agricultural mechanics and welding will be offered to students beginning in the fall of 2024.
President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in the Rose Garden of the White House, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Democratic donors covered more than $1 million in legal fees racked up by attorneys representing President Joe Biden in a yearlong special counsel probe into his handling of classified documents.

The use of party funds to cover Biden's legal bills is not without precedent and falls within the bounds of campaign finance law, but it could cloud Biden's ability to continue to hammer former President Donald Trump over his far more extensive use of donor funds to cover his legal bills.

The former president has tapped more than $100 million in donor money for a web of legal challenges, ranging from his upcoming criminal trial in New York over hush money payments to ongoing prosecutions over his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection and his refusal to turn over classified documents to the federal government after leaving office.

For months, Biden aides and advisers have criticized Trump and Republicans for their spending on the former president's legal issues, which has left the GOP campaign cash-strapped and diverted resources from battleground states.

We are not spending money on legal bills or hawking gold sneakers, Biden campaign finance chair Rufus Gifford told MSNBC last week.

The payments to Biden attorney Bob Bauer and the law firm Hemenway & Barnes were disclosed in regular campaign finance reports to the Federal Election Commission. Two people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the payments, confirmed the money went for work on the Biden probe. Axios first reported on the payments.

The money for Bidens legal team came from the Democratic National Committees legal account, according to the people. That account is primarily funded by high-dollar donors who have already met federal contribution limits for the partys political activities.

If these corrupt Democrats didnt have HYPOCRISY, theyd have NOTHING! the Republican National Committee said in a post Friday on X.
Democrats in the Oklahoma Legislature called Thursday for their Republican counterparts to join them in rejecting administrative rules created in recent months by the Oklahoma State Board of Education, claiming the creation of those rules had no legal basis.

Meanwhile, legislative leaders also reacted to The Oklahomans report on Thursday that more than 130 employees of the Oklahoma State Department of Education have left the agency since state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters took office in January 2023.

Democrats said Oklahoma law prevents a state board or agency from creating administrative rules without express approval from the Legislature to do so. They cited an opinion from state Attorney General Gentner Drummond  sought last year by Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore  in making that claim.

Let us be clear  these rules are void, said Senate Minority Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City. They are unenforceable, and any action taken by the State Department of Education regarding these rules will also be void and unenforceable. We stand as Democrats in the caucus  to work across the aisle to resolve this.

Sen. Kay Floyd speaks during a press conference with Senate and House Democrats Ryan Walters in Oklahoma City, Thursday, April 11, 2024.

The state Board of Education in February passed a slew of rules regarding school accreditation, prayer in schools, teacher behavior and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) procedures in Oklahoma schools and other topics. After board approval, those rules must be approved by both the Legislature and the governor before taking effect.

Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, pointed to a meeting of the Senate Administrative Rules Committee scheduled for Monday as a key one.

Sen. Carri Hicks speaks during a press conference with Senate and House Democrats Ryan Walters in Oklahoma City, Thursday, April 11, 2024.

We are trying to be proactive in our approach in raising an alarm and saying these are outside of the boards authority, Hicks said.

The state boards rulemaking authority is at the center of a lawsuit filed by Edmond Public Schools against Walters, the board and the education department. The Edmond district says it -- not the state agency -- has the right to choose which books are carried in school libraries. Attorneys for Walters, the agency and the board argue that Drummonds opinion misconstrues relevant statutes and precedents.

The state attorneys argue in their legal filings that a portion of Oklahoma's Administrative Procedures Act that says the board can adopt policies and make rules for the operation of the public school system in the state giving the state board authority to create new rules not requested by the Legislature.

There is broad constitutional authority vested in OSDE that grants it the ability to act in the best interest of Oklahoma students, agency spokesman Dan Isett said. Additionally, there is existing statutory authority underpinning the State Board of Education's rulemaking process, and that has been followed to the letter of the law. Oklahoma parents and Oklahoma voters have demanded better of our schools and of the agency, and that is what Superintendent Walters is delivering.

Newspaper report into agency departures also draws comment from legislators

Separately from the rules issue, legislators also expressed concern about The Oklahomans report about the many departures from the agency in recent months. Just since July, 65 people have left the agency through either resignation, retirement or termination.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, Walters posted a video lambasting The Oklahomans report, using a derogatory name for the newspaper and saying, Its such a joke.  But thats what they are. Theyre fake news. Theyre going to continue to try to lie to Oklahomans to undermine the work were doing here. Walters did acknowledge the reduced staffing numbers, saying it was saving taxpayers money.

Legislative Democrats, on three occasions, have called for Walters to be impeached or investigated. On Thursday, state Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa  a member of the House Appropriations and Budget education subcommittee  expressed concern about the state education agencys ability to perform its basic duties.

We have to staff that (education) building to take care of 540-odd school districts and 700,000 children, Waldron said. The job is massive. It requires grant writing, school support, oversight, curriculum work, professional development, communication to all those schools  without professionals to staff it, our schools are not being served."

He added: Were seeing a level of dysfunction thats maybe completely unprecedented at the State Department of Education. At some point, we have to exercise our public duty of oversight to make sure that students and their families are being served.

Waldron said he thought many Republicans would only come to that point of view when its too embarrassing or when their supermajority in both chambers of the Legislature might be threatened as a result.

House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, didnt sound ready to begin an investigation, citing Walters status as a statewide elected official. He said accountability for Walters is ultimately with the people of the state of Oklahoma.

Im sure the superintendent, he probably needs to field questions as to why theres been so many departures, McCall said. Has he replaced all those people? Can he run the administration (at) the agency effectively and efficiently at those levels? I think thats what every agency administrator has to answer."

McCall acknowledged that the number of departures "seems like a high number and that can be, if we have schools out there saying theyre not receiving services and whatnot, communication from the department, that would rise to the level of some legislative consideration and scrutiny. But  going back to this question of, would the Legislature take adverse action against the superintendent, who is an elected official  its going to have to be a high level of failure before were going to overturn a vote.

Sen. Kay Floyd speaks during a press conference with Senate and House Democrats Ryan Walters in Oklahoma City, Thursday, April 11, 2024.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Education department rules, agency departures questioned by Democrats
DENVER (KDVR)  A 13-year-old female clouded leopard was humanely euthanized at the Denver Zoo after a significant decline in health.

The zoo posted about the news on its Facebook on Thursday.

Lovingly known as Lisu, the leopard had several medical conditions that the animal care and veterinary teams at the Denver Zoo were managing. However, Lisu experienced a decline in health over the past two weeks.

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This decision was made to relieve Lisu of any suffering given her poor prognosis and she passed peacefully, surrounded by those who loved and cared for her throughout her life, said the Denver Zoo on Facebook.

A 13-year-old clouded leopard named Lisu was humanely euthanized at the Denver Zoo after a decline in health. (Denver Zoo)

A 13-year-old clouded leopard named Lisu was humanely euthanized at the Denver Zoo after a decline in health. (Denver Zoo)

A 13-year-old clouded leopard named Lisu was humanely euthanized at the Denver Zoo after a decline in health. (Denver Zoo)

A 13-year-old clouded leopard named Lisu was humanely euthanized at the Denver Zoo after a decline in health. (Denver Zoo)

A 13-year-old clouded leopard named Lisu was humanely euthanized at the Denver Zoo after a decline in health. (Denver Zoo)

According to the zoo, Lisu was born at the Nashville Zoo on March 19, 2011, and later moved to Denver as a part of the zoos Species Survival Plan and for the opening of the Toyota Elephant Passage exhibit.

In addition to being a wonderful member of our animal family, she also was an incredible ambassador for her elusive and vulnerable species and birthed two cubs while at Denver Zoo, said the zoo.

The Denver Zoo said Lisu developed a very rare allergy to several types of meat, which became a serious problem as Lisu was an obligate carnivore.

The vet, nutrition and animal care team addressed the issue and spent tireless hours caring for Lisu, and she lived several happy and healthy years in the zoos care, said the Denver Zoo.

Zoo caretakers remember Lisu

The Denver Zoo said the sudden loss has been hard on the staff, and especially on those who cared for Lisu over her life.

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The zoo shared some words from those who knew Lisu best.

We called her Princess Lisu because the spots on her forehead formed a perfect tiara, and it could not have been more fitting to her personality. Im honored to have cared for Lisu throughout her entire life  we even shared a memorable milestone of becoming moms together in the same year, said lead animal care specialist Molly K.

She was a love bug, showing much affection for her keepers, requiring our undivided attention, even if it meant dropping everything, we were doing to provide it. She was also the epitome of a cat, able to become aloof and independent in an instant according to her prerogative, said animal care specialist Erik B.

The zoo invited anyone who had a special memory or words for Lisu to leave them on their Facebook post.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
On September 5, 2021, Native Americans and allies gathered at the Pipe Out Paddle Up Flotilla at the Straits of Mackinac to call for the shutdown of Line 5. (Photo/Levi Rickert for Native News Online)

The United States Department of Justice filed an Amicus Brief on April 10 siding with Wisconsins Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians in their belief that Line 5 a huge underground pipeline carrying fuel from Wisconsin to Canada trespasses on Native land.

Line 5 is a decade-old 645-mile pipeline operated by Canadian oil company Enbridge that cuts across Wisconsin and Michigan, including a 12-mile stretch of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewas reservation. In 2019, the Band sued Enbridge in federal court to shut down and remove Line 5 from their reservation.

U.S. District Judge Conley ruled in September 2022 that Enbridge has been illegally trespassing and profiting at the Band's expense since the pipeline's easements expired in 2013, but it denied the Bands request for an immediate shutdown.

Now, for the first time, the Department of Justice has weighed in, upholding the District judges opinion that Enbridge is liable for trespass, according to the brief. Federal law provides the exclusive mechanism by which Enbridge may obtain a legal right to remain on tribal lands: a right-of-way issued by the Secretary of the Interior, the brief says.

But tribal leaders and legal experts say that the brief falls short of any corrective measures to protect the Band. Last year, rapid riverbank erosion brought the pipeline within 11 feet of the Bad River current, prompting the Band to ask the judge for an emergency shutdown to prevent an oil spill. The court ruled in June that Line 5 constitutes a public nuisance and ordered Enbridge to shut down the pipeline within the Band's sovereign lands in three years. The court also ordered Enbridge to pay the Band $5.1 million a fraction of its $1 billion net profits. Both the tribe and Enbridge have appealed the decision in the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals.

"The filing leaves more questions than answers, Michigans Bay Mills Indian Community President Whitney Gravelle said in a statement. It also leaves Bad River, other Tribal Nations throughout the region, and the 40 million people that rely on the Great Lakes at risk of a catastrophic spill. We fear it will take Line 5 failing again, and the disaster of an oil spill for our position to be taken seriously. This isn't just about tribes, it is about clean water, it is about life. It is about every U.S. citizen and preserving our natural resources for generations to come.

Bad River Band Chair Robert Blanchard agreed.

"We are grateful the US urged the court not to let Enbridge profit from its unlawful trespass, Blanchard said in a statement. But we are disappointed that the US has not unequivocally called for an immediate end to Enbridges ongoing trespass, as justice and the law demand. Enbridge should be required to promptly leave our Reservation, just like other companies that have trespassed on tribal land.

About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. "

Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net
Deputy head of Ukrainian President's Office sent to work at Foreign Affairs Ministry, source says

Deputy Head of the Office of the President Andrii Sybiha has been appointed the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Source: Ukrainska Pravda source in the Ukrainian government

Details: Mykola Tochytskyi, who previously served as Deputy to Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, is set to replace Sybiha in the Office of the President.

Official documents have not yet been published.

Ukrainska Pravda earlier reported the possibility of such a personnel reshuffle.

Updated: According to the official governmental Telegram channel, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers decided to adopt the following directive during its meeting on 12 April:

On the appointment of Andrii Sybiha as Ukraine's first deputy minister of foreign affairs and the dismissal of Mykola Tochytskyi from the position of deputy minister of foreign affairs.

For reference: Andrii Sybiha is an experienced diplomat. He has worked in various positions within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1997.

From 2016, he served as Ukraine's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Turkiye.

He was appointed Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine by Zelenskyy's decree dated 31 May 2021.

Mykola Tochytskyi has been with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1993. On 29 September 2021, he became Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

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Outdoor workers in a field in Miami-Dade County. Source: WeCount! video screen grab

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

Gov. Ron DeSantis has quietly signed into law a measure barring local governments from requiring employers to provide workers with basic protections like shade, accessible water, and breaks from the Floridas scorching heat and humidity.

Since the Legislature adjourned its regular session on March 8, the governor has staged press conferences packed with political supporters to sign bills cracking down on child predators, retail theft and porch piracy, fentanyl traffickers, plus another new law that channels the states share of Seminole gambling proceeds into environmental programs.

And on Friday, he went before the cameras to sign new laws stripping civilian police oversight boards of any power and preventing civilians from coming within 25 feet of a first responder if warned to stay back.

Word of the heat-protection ban came, however, via a press release issued by the governors office after 8 p.m. Thursday. It was one of 10 bills he signed that day.

Central Florida Democratic state Senator Victor Torres (photo credit: Florida Senate)

State Sen. Victor Torres of Orange County condemned the move as a step back in protecting workers.

Florida is known as the Sunshine State  and the governor just signed a law to ensure the outdoor workers cant escape the sun, Torres said in a written statement.

All around us

Outdoor workers are all around us  working on construction sites, repairing and paving roads, picking fruit and vegetables on farms, and more. Theyre just trying to make a living for their families  and instead of putting protections in place to ensure businesses are prioritizing their workers health and well-being from record-setting temperatures, we tied the hands of proactive local governments to do so, Torres added.

The move is not only an injustice for the thousands of outdoor workers who are asking for the bare minimum in triple-digit heat, but its also an afront to decency and humanity, said Esteban Wood, policy director for WeCount!, representing immigrant communities, which led opposition to the bill.

Workers who are simply asking for 10 minutes of a shaded rest break, simply asking for rest breaks on a job  to deny workers that is simply outrageous, Wood added. Extreme heat kills.

Its no surprise that Gov. DeSantis signed this cruel and terrible bill late at night; thats what you do when youre embarrassed about what youre signing, said Jessica E. Martinez, co-executive director of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (COSH), a labor-oriented organization.

Preemption

DeSantis did play down the problem during his news conference Friday.

It wasnt anything that was coming from me. There was a lot of concern out of one county, Miami-Dade. And I dont think it was an issue in any other part of the state. I think they were pursuing something that was gonna cause a lot of problems down there, so I think a lot of the members of the Dade delegation created that just to steer clear of those problems, he said.

Eighty-eight environmental, faith and progressive groups in early April called upon DeSantis to veto the legislation.

The new law, HB 433, which takes effect on July 1, forbids the state or its political subdivisions from requiring any protections not mandated by state or federal law, even for their own contractors. Neither can they weigh bid solicitations in favor of contractors who provide more protections. Or use their contracting power to seek to influence wages or benefits.

A legislative analysis of the bill observes: Currently, there are no specific federal or state laws that provide heat exposure protections for outdoor workers.

As the Phoenix has reported, the only county in Florida that had been considering enacting such a heat protection ordinance was Miami-Dade. That effort fizzed under pressure from industry groups and as the Legislature took up the preemption bill.

By contrast, the Phoenix, Arizona, city council voted unanimously on March 26 to require city contractors and subcontractors to provide access to rest, shade, water, and air conditioning for all of their employees who work outdoors.

Backwards legislation

The governor should be embarrassed. This backwards legislation abandons the many workers in Florida who are at risk from extreme heat, even though Florida is the hottest state in the nation and the plain fact is that temperatures are getting hotter every year, COSHs Martinez said.

Does Ron DeSantis really think its appropriate to stop local communities from requiring employers to provide rest, water, and shade to workers who desperately need those protections? Probably not, or he would have signed the bill in broad daylight, Martinez continued.

Were incredibly proud of workers at WeCount! who have led this fight and brought a spotlight to the dangers faced by working people due to climate change. Theyre not giving up, and neither are we, because workers need and deserve basic, common-sense protections at every level: local, state and federal.

WeCount! had pressed for worker protections in the Legislature for years with no success, Wood said in a telephone interview.

One avenue for progress might be worker-directed social responsibility (WSR) which can include agreements with major employers, including big-box stores and restaurant chains, to voluntarily require suppliers to essentially follow a code of conduct, and thats something I think is worth exploring, Wood said.

The Coalition of Immokalee Workers has negotiated just such an agreement, called the Fair Food Program, Wood noted.

The post DeSantis nixes local efforts to protect outdoor workers from FLs brutal weather appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
A visitor takes photos of the painting "two sparrows on a tree" of Tang Yin, an ancient Chinese artist, at an exhibition in Suzhou Bay Museum in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

NANJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Not far away from where Tang Yin was born, a special exhibition featuring the original paintings and calligraphy of the distinguished master from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) unfolded in east China's Suzhou City.

In the exhibition showcasing the works of Tang, one particular painting stood out as the centerpiece -- "two sparrows on a tree." The authenticated masterpiece captures the serene beauty of spring as a pair of sparrows revel in nature's embrace.

To commemorate the 500th anniversary of Tang's passing, the Suzhou Bay Museum specially curated this exclusive exhibition, marking the masterpiece's first public exhibition since 2010.

"It's considered a treasure of our museum, and rightly so. Genuine paintings by Tang Yin are scarce, with fewer than 200 authenticated pieces known to exist. Among these, works depicting flowers and birds are especially rare, with only two such paintings confirmed to be in existence today," said Ru Yuelai, curator of the Suzhou Bay Museum.

According to the museum, this masterpiece was once again found in the late 1970s. Its composition, inheriting the techniques of Song Dynasty (960-1279) artists, is exquisitely detailed. Against the backdrop of a camellia tree, Tang depicted a scene where twin sparrows engage in an intimate interaction.

Accompanying the artwork is a poem by Tang himself, "Do not take advantage when the mantis loses its nest, someone is taking aim at the birds." Through this verse, the master infused the painting with a profound sense of worldly wisdom that transcends the mere portrayal of flowers and birds.

Tang, better known by his courtesy name Bohu, was celebrated for his multifaceted talents in painting, calligraphy, and poetry. His works predominantly captured the allure of "Jiangnan," the scenic region south of the Yangtze River where he was both born and laid to rest.

He emerged from the thriving merchant class of Suzhou, as the eldest son of a pub owner. Tang devoted himself to diligent study during his youth, showing little interest in material wealth. His exceptional talent later earned him recognition as the preeminent figure of Jiangnan.

However, his life took a dramatic turn after a bribery scandal thwarted his ambitions for further official progress, leading him down a path of artistic indulgence.

Tang's unconventional way of life has inspired storytellers to portray him as a mischievous character in Chinese folklore, a depiction that has been adapted into numerous plays and films.

"I never expected I could appreciate the beauty of my favorite painting in such an immersive dreamscape, it's like a 'dialogue' across time and space," said Shi, a spectator, standing before a digitized version of the masterpiece projected on a large screen. 

Ru Yuelai, curator of the Suzhou Bay Museum, prepares to introduce the painting "two sparrows on a tree" of Tang Yin, an ancient Chinese artist, at an exhibition in Suzhou Bay Museum in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, April 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a bill limiting civilian investigations by government-affiliated boards into the behavior of local law enforcement officers, including in Miami, St. Petersburg and Tampa.

The law, which takes effect in July, has consequences for civilian oversight panels that in more than 20 Florida counties and cities look into citizen complaints against officers by using public records and witness interviews and by auditing police investigations. Some boards, which make recommendations about discipline, were created by voters, others by government officials following policing controversies.

Under the bill, HB 601, these organizations will now largely be prohibited from receiving and following up on complaints. Members and employees of agencies in in Miami and Tampa told the Herald/Times that theyre trying to determine exactly what the legislation means for their future.

The best thing is that this information has now come to some level of finality, said Rodney Jacobs Jr., executive director of the Miami Civilian Oversight Panel.

Advocates for increased scrutiny of police have criticized the legislation, which St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch recently referred to as one of the states blanket solutions to problems that dont exist. Kara Gross, the legislative director and senior policy counsel for ACLU Florida, said in a statement on Friday that the new law seeks to undermine the work local communities across Florida have put into attempting to increase trust between residents and law enforcement.

But police unions and law enforcement officials applauded the proposal, with DeSantis describing police review boards on Friday as a political weapon at the bill signing in St. Augustine at the St. Johns County Sheriffs Office.

Theyll set up these things called citizen review boards, usually in these very-tilted-politically jurisdictions, DeSantis said. Theyll stack it with activists, and theyll just start reviewing things and trying to put people under the gun even if theres no basis to do that.

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass said at the press conference that ACLU Floridas criticism that the new legislation would impede the community with law enforcement was wrong.

If they would pay attention to how our state works, we have review boards. We have the criminal justice standards and training commission that deals with every incident thats referred, said Glass. Every agency has an internal affairs, and if they dont they utilize another agencys internal affairs, to investigate an incident.

Glass added: These men and women do not need to be scrutinized again and again by a committee that has no idea what theyre talking about.

DO LOCAL CIVILIAN PANELS DISCIPLINE COPS?

While some civilian panels have additional authority, such as in the city of Miami, to subpoena private businesses for surveillance footage or documents, they dont have the ability to discipline an officer, said Jacobs.

I can tell you that no board has the ability to discipline an officer due to the law enforcement officers bill of rights, said Jacobs, whose panel was created by Miami voters in 2001, in an interview with the Herald/Times on Friday.

But Jacobs wouldnt go so far as to say the civilian review boards will be shut down come July 1 when the bill goes into effect. They may still have the ability to audit police investigations, for instance. His organization is still reviewing the new legislation.

The bill also empowers county sheriffs to establish their own civilian oversight boards to review the policies and procedures of his or her office and its subdivisions. That board must be composed of at least three and up to seven members appointed by the sheriff, one of which shall be a retired law enforcement officer. Its unclear whether these sheriff-controlled boards will replace the citizen oversight panels, merge with them, or simply function separately, Jacobs said.

When the law is implemented it will affect civilian oversight work in 21 cities, according to a Senate bill analysis, including several in West Central and South Florida: Bradenton, Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Miami, North Miami Beach, St. Petersburg, Tampa and West Palm Beach. Miami-Dade County also has an Independent Civilian Panel.

Carolyn Hepburn-Collins, a member of Tampas Citizen Review Board and past president of the Hillsborough County branch of the NAACP, said she does not foresee the legislation signed Friday by the governor hindering the boards activity.

We do not investigate the Tampa Police Department, she said. We review closed investigations done by the police department itself. Then we say if we agree or disagree with the outcome and look for potential avenues for policy and procedure change.

But Brandon Barclay, president of the Tampa Police Benevolent Association, cautioned that interpretation, saying the legislation wouldnt allow business as usual.

He said the legislation is a useful step that will encourage more uniformity statewide, instead of the current patchwork of boards which have a range of structures and abilities. But he added that without review boards, departments have other checks and balances in place to investigate bad behavior and implement improvements, including internal affairs units and the states Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.

When people say there is no oversight, it is blatantly absurd, he said.

In Tampa, the Citizens Review Board formed in 2015 after a Tampa Bay Times investigation revealed that Tampa police were disproportionately ticketing Black bicyclists.

Several years of controversy followed Tampas board formation, with disagreements about who should appoint its members and whether it should have subpoena power and its own attorney. Former Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Mayor Jane Castor, a former Tampa police chief, opposed expanded powers and sought more control over membership.

The board does not have subpoena power. It was in the process of hiring its own attorney, but paused the process while this legislation made its way through state government.

Tampa City Council members passed an ordinance giving the board access to their own lawyer last April, which advocates say is necessary to prevent a conflict of interest if there is litigation against the city. The move came after Mayor Castor vetoed an effort to put the question to voters.

Police departments require collaboration and trust from the community, Castor said in a written statement on Friday, adding that civilian review boards help foster that trust and that Tampas review board has always had an excellent working relationship with the Tampa Police Department.
Dallas County developer Centurion American unveiled plans Friday to construct 1,100 single-family houses near Eagle Mountain Lake, one week after securing a special tax from the county to help bankroll the communitys development.

The Estates at Eagle Mountain would sprawl across 836-acres just outside the Fort Worth city limits, boxed in by Bonds Ranch Road to the south, Peden Road to the north, and Morris Dido Newark Road to the west. Just under 5% of the property will be set aside for commercial use; Centurions agents are still shopping for stores.

Centurion manages real estate across the Metroplex, including a 540-acre subdivision-cum-resort a couple miles north of its latest acquisition. The companys newest homes, on lots a half acre to an acre in size, will be a two mile drive from Eagle Mountain High School, slated for completion in August.

The Tarrant County Commissioners Court approved the creation of a public improvement district for the development a week earlier. The special tax zone, exclusive to the property, would exact a property tax on future homeowners and businesses to fund the creation and maintenance of roads, sewers, and water utilities across the community.

Three of the four commissioners voting on the matter April 2 celebrated the project.

One of the primary challenges of the Tarrant County Commissioners is keeping up with the growth, both the capital infrastructure needs as well as the population needs, Precinct 1 commissioner Roy Brooks said in a statement shared with the companys public relations firm. I support creative processes that grow and support our infrastructure needs. The new PID in precinct four is one such process.

The superintendent of the Eagle Mountain-Saginaw independent school district, Jim Chadwell, also signaled his support.

There have many areas within EMS ISD where roads, sidewalks, and infrastructure have not been expanded to accommodate the significant growth that we are experiencing, Chadwell said. This is the type of development and partnership that we need.

Precinct 2 commissioner Alissa Simmons, held up by concerns about the fees impact on future homeowners and some of Centurions past dealings, was the sole dissenter.

The city could annex the land after the districts funding term  possibly three decades  expires.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Diocese of Buffalo Bishop Michael Fisher responded Thursday after a group of local Catholics asked the Vatican for his ousting, claiming Fisher is failing the community.

That letter sent to the Vatican on Wednesday includes various articles, stories and comments by Catholics, all of whom share their disapproval and documentation of what they see as the harm done to the Catholic community by Bishop Fisher.

It was disheartening in many ways, particularly the part where it says Im basically just looking at things from a financial standpoint and money, Fisher said.

A focus of the letter is what its authors say is the lack of progress by Bishop Fisher on settling almost 900 childhood sexual abuse cases.

Multiple local churches and schools, plus the dioceses Main Street headquarters, are either closing or being put up for sale in what is being called a financial crisis.

If theres going to be a school closing or a church closing, if youre the spiritual leader, you need to go talk to that parish or that school personally, on your own. Cry with them, offer mass for them, and talk to them directly and say, this is on me, said parishioner Michael Taheri.

Instead, he sends these B teams out and they always say, well, its about the money. You didnt make your assessment, so we have to close you down, Taheri added.

We have to meet the needs of the people with limited priests and resources, financial resources, and I have to take all that into consideration. It means that were going to have to close churches, close schools, but in the long run, we want to make sure that we have those assets, those resources that we can serve the people in the way that were called to. Thats my focus, Fisher said.

Taheri continued saying the bishop doesnt want to face the truth and that he hides.

Hes like a coward in the chancery. Hes fearful, Taheri said.

I do know that as a shepherd of this community, I do need to be out there more and to look for those opportunities that Im able to share what were doing and when I can, said Fisher in response to Taheris comment.

The letter says Bishop Fisher has caused long-term and irreparable harm to the local Catholic community, asking the Vatican to step in and review actions and decisions since his appointment. The bishop is open to that step.

If the Holy Father needs to send someone in to look at how we are doing things, I have nothing to hide and I am certainly open to doing that, Fisher said.

Taheri says if Bishop Fisher is open to the Vatican stepping in then he should write a formal letter to the Pope himself, saying that he supports the review.

You can view the Diocese of Buffalos response to the letter below.

statement_Vatican_final2Download

Latest Local News

Dillon Morello is a reporter from Pittsburgh who has been part of the News 4 team since September of 2023. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
London High School's Daniel Johhnson was the winner in this week's Dispatch's Student of the Week poll.

Johnson secured 62.6% of the votes cast to top Marving Beaubrun of Reynoldsburg and Zainab Waseem of Canal Winchester.

Here is Johnson's nomination from the school:

Daniel Johnson, London: Daniel served as a member of the LHS Student Principal search committee and is the face behind Danny J Films and Photography. Daniel has found a way to connect with the greater London community and other local schools through social media to share his love and passion of photography. Through his network, he also has created an opportunity for others to share in the moments that he has captured. Daniels skill set requires him to be patient with finding the right moment to snap the right shot or even filtering through the thousands of pictures that are taken over the course of the Friday night. He has found a way to share his gift with others by including them in taking pictures while also providing tips and suggestions to grow their craft.

"Daniel shares his photos with the yearbook, which will give his peers something to remember not just now but for many years in the future. Daniel is active in his internship with the tech department connecting with Mr. Shumaker and Mr. Riegel to provide support to the day-to-day operations of the department. Daniel is good-hearted, willing to share and is a model Red Raider in his daily actions.

Students were nominated by participating central Ohio high school principals, teachers and guidance counselors for outstanding academic and school achievement and community service.

Here are the other nominees and what was said about them:

Marving Beaubrun, Reynoldsburg: Marving is a multilingual individual dedicated to giving his best effort daily. Not only does he excel academically, but he also aids his peers who are English language learners. Marving guides these classmates through labs and projects, interpreting the content to help them understand. Committed to his education, Marving actively engages in class activities on a daily basis.

Zainab Waseem, Canal Winchester: "Zainab goes above and beyond as a student, ensuring that she understands content and is prepared for assessments. She is so focused and hard working but remains humble and is a leader amongst her peers. She consistently earns top grades, maintaining a 4.1 GPA in her classes, which include six AP courses. She is a member of HOSA-Future Health Professionals and qualified as a sophomore for the International Leadership Competition. She is also a member of the National Honor Society, the OSU Student Leadership Collaborative and student council. She's a shining example of all aspects of the CWHS Portrait of a Graduate (respectful citizen, problem solver, self-aware individual, responsible learner, collaborator, communicator)."

Dispatch Student of the Week

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: London's Daniel Johnson wins Dispatch Student of the Week
Video above: Previous coverage of the search for Nicole Baldwin

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A search for a missing Florida mother of three has resumed nearly six months after her disappearance, according to officials.

The 41-year-old Mount Dora mother, Nicole Baldwin, went missing on Nov. 2, according to NBC affiliate WESH. Officials said she was last seen at her home, and that all of her personal belongings were found inside.

Horrific: Davenport man wanted for stabbing cousin over 15 times, police say

Search efforts will be conducted in lakes and ponds in the Lock Leven subdivision in Lake County.

The Lake County Sheriffs Office announced the search continuation on Friday, as several dive teams from Central Florida agencies, including Search and Rescue of Central Florida and the Seminole County Sheriffs Office are continuing their search for Baldwin.

Nicoles husband, Brett Baldwin, was arrested on Dec. 14, facing a federal charge of possessing child pornography, WESH report. However, officials said this was not related to her disappearance.

Woman who stabbed classmate to please Slender Man wont be released from psychiatric hospital

Its devastating. It really is. Because you know they didnt walk away on their own and leave everything behind like that, Terri Rogers, the woman who coordinated three searches, told WESH in December 2023.

Anyone with information on Baldwins whereabouts can contact Mount Dora police at 352-735-7130. Police also said Crimeline is offering a $5,000 reward for any information.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) paid for President Bidens legal fees surrounding the investigation into his handling of classified documents even as his own campaign railed against former President Trump for using campaign donations to pay for similar services.

Axios first reported that Biden used campaign donations for the fees, citing two people familiar with the matter and campaign finance records. It found the DNC paid more than $1.5 million to the presidents personal lawyer, Bob Bauer, and the firm Hemenway & Barnes LLP.

Federal Election Commission records show the first payment to Hemenway & Barnes LLP was $15,000 in January 2023, after the news that classified documents were discovered first broke. The first payment to Bob Bauer PLLC was $150,000 in July of that year.

The Hemenway & Barnes LLP payments increased to $100,000 in July, and the amounts to both parties fluctuated until late February, when the special counsel concluded the investigation.

Bauer, who was part of Bidens legal team that in February decried special counsel Robert Hurs report as inappropriate for portraying the president as lacking memory of key life events, was also paid by President Obama in 2009. His law firm made nearly $1.5 million from Obamas presidential campaign, Politico reported at the time.

The Biden campaign has hit Trump for months for trailing the incumbent in fundraising and for using campaign donations to pay for the former presidents mounting legal bills, though Bidens cost are a fraction of Trumps.

The DNC, when asked about the payments, argued that the situation cant be compared to Trump, who has spent roughly $50 million total on legal fees in 2023.

There is no comparison  the DNC does not spend a single penny of grassroots donors money on legal bills, unlike Donald Trump, who actively solicits legal fees from his supporters and has drawn down every bank account he can get his hands on like a personal piggy bank, DNC spokesperson Alex Floyd said.

Trump in March launched a joint fundraising agreement with the Republican National Committee that will send donations to his campaign and a PAC covering his legal bills before they go toward the party itself.

Trumps Save America PAC has so far spent millions of dollars paying Trumps lawyers. The former president faces charges in four separate criminal indictments in addition to a civil business fraud trial and a civil defamation case that had him facing millions of dollars in penalties.

Last month, the Biden campaign tried out the nickname Broke Don for Trump to highlight his lagging fundraising numbers.

Biden has poked fun at him over the amount of money Trump owes in penalties stemming from the two New York civil cases, telling donors at fundraisers recently that a defeated man came up to him and said, Im being crushed by debt.

Taylor Giorno contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Immediately after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Google recorded the highest volume of searches for vasectomy in the past five years. Last year, published data in the International Journal of Impotence Research identified a significant uptick in vasectomy consultations after the Dobs decisions.

Anecdotally, urologists previously told Salon theyve seen an increase in interest in vasectomies post-Dobbs, and patients have usually been younger and childless. However, since Dobbs there has yet to be a study displaying a comprehensive view of the permanent contraception landscape in the United States post-Dobbs  until this week.

Published today in a JAMA Health Forum research letter, policy researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health and Boston University show how the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling affected preferences for permanent contraception among males and females between the ages of 18 to 30. Its the first study to assess how the Dobbs ruling affected both females and male interest in permanent contraception procedures. What the researchers found was that despite all the attention on male vasectomies post-Dobbs, the rise in tubal sterilizations among females was twice as high as the increase among vasectomies in males.

This increase is likely reflecting the fear or anxiety among young people about restricted access to abortion and potentially restricted access to contraception down the road, lead author Jacqueline Ellison, an assistant professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management at the Pitt School of Public Health, told Salon. The findings have implications for understanding how abortion bans affect reproductive autonomy beyond just the ability to access abortion, and that abortion policy is also shaping contraceptive decision making. We really need to understand this.

Ellison and her colleagues looked at national electronic medical record data to see specifically how the Dobbs ruling might have changed rates in both tubal ligations and vasectomies from April 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022,  pre Dobbs  to June 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023, after Dobbs. Ellison said they found an abrupt increase. Prior to Dobbs, the researchers found the permanent contraception rate increased by 2.84 among females and 1.03 procedures among males. After Dobbs, the permanent contraception rate increased to 58.02 among females and 26.99 procedures among males.

Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes.

The increase in procedures for female patients was double that for male patients, the researchers said in their study. These patterns offer insights into the gendered dynamics of permanent contraceptive use and may reflect the disproportionate health, social and economic consequences of compulsory pregnancy on women and people with the capacity to become pregnant.

Additionally, the researchers found that the increase in tubal ligations was sustained after the initial peak  while the increase in vasectomies waned. The study did have some limitations, specifically the researchers were unable to look at state or health care organizations, as the platform they used didn't provide this data.

"We were therefore unable to assess the potential outcomes of state abortion policy or account for changes in the sample attributable to fluctuations in the organizations contributing data over the study period," the authors write. "Additionally, our findings do not provide insight into the differential experiences of Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, disabled, immigrant and low-income women, who disproportionately encounter interference and coercion in their contraceptive decision-making."

In other words, that means they couldn't tell if vasectomies in Texas rose post-Dobbs, for example.

The fact that people who can get pregnant are more likely to experience the consequences of abortion bans is probably contributing to the differential effects that we're seeing, Ellison said, noting that tubal ligation is more expensive than vasectomies. The cost and complexity of the procedure of a tubal ligation is much higher, yet we're still seeing different uses of tubal sterilization versus vasectomy.

Ellison said this study emphasizes that the Dobbs decision increased the demand for permanent contraception, which is still highly gendered.

People who get pregnant are overwhelmingly responsible for this tendency relative to cis-men, she said.
Doctor who performed autopsy on 5-year-old Kamarie Holland testifies in murder trial

The trial for a man who has already pleaded guilty to murder in the death of a Phenix City 5-year-old who was raped and strangled entered its second day.

Dr. David Rydzewski, a forensic pathologist who performed the autopsy on Holland, testified Thursday afternoon.

He testified that a toxicological report of blood taken from Holland revealed methamphetamine and amphetamine in Hollands body.

This comes after jurors were told of the graphic nature of the case and shown video evidence from police body cameras and cell phone video of the sexual assault.

Jeremy Williams previously pleaded guilty to charges involving the death of 5-year-old Kamarie Holland who was killed in December 2021. However, Alabama law dictates that a case carrying the death penalty cannot be resolved by pleading guilty.

Williams pleaded guilty to these charges:

Capital murder for causing Kamaries death.

Capital murder for killing her in course of kidnapping.

Capital murder for killing her while committing first-degree rape.

Capital murder for killing her while committing first-degree sodomy.

Those guilty pleas were entered as exhibits on Thursday afternoon. A certified copy of a guilty plea by Williams was entered as an exhibit for the jury to consider.

Images from Hollands autopsy were shown to the court showing multiple injuries on different parts of her body. One image was shown of Hollands body with part of the rope still around her neck.

Some of the more graphic images werent shown to reporters and those in the galleries. Rydzewski described these images and detailed trauma located in Hollands rectal and vaginal area.

Rydzewski testified that Hollands cause of death was asphyxia due to ligature strangulation and the manner of death was homicide.

Heidi Grohman with the Russell County Department of Human Resources was the last to testify.

Grohman testified that Hollands mother, Kristy Siple, didnt have custody of Holland. She said Russell County DHR received a report of drug abuse by Siple.

Grohamn testified custody was awarded to Hollands father. The children were later taken back into DHR care after finding out Hollands father was allowing Siple to have contact with her children, according to Grohman.

Hollands father later got the children back after they were taken into DHR custody, according to Grohmans testimony.

Williams asked that his attorneys not to make objections or ask questions. None of the witnesses called were cross-examined.

If Williams is found guilty the sentencing phase is expected to start next week.
Documents reveal man admits to dumping Belmont man into the trash after inexplicable death

Documents reveal man admits to dumping Belmont man into the trash after inexplicable death

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Mecklenburg County court documents released on Friday reveal that a Charlotte man arrested in connection to the disappearance of a Belmont man admitted to dumping his body into the trash and failing to notify police of his death.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said Andrew Tench, 31, was reported missing on March 25 and last seen in Charlotte. His car was found abandoned in Monroe, according to Gaston County Police.

Belmont resident Andrew Tench. (Photo: Gaston County Police Dept.)

On Thursday evening, DShaun Montrell Robinson, 26, was arrested following an interview with police Thursday, April, 11, and charged with the following:

Felony concealment of a death

Felony identity theft

Felony financial card theft (2 counts)

Felony financial card fraud

Felony larceny of motor vehicle

Financial card fraud (3 counts)

A search was also conducted at Robinsons home, CMPD said.

Court documents released on Friday revealed that while CMPD was interviewing Robinson he told authorities that Tench was dead. Robinson explained that he disposed of the victim into the trash and failed to notify law enforcement of the death.

Records also show that Robinson used Tenchs bank card to make purchases at Dicks Sporting Goods and Target in Matthews on March 25. CCTV footage obtained from both retailers showed Robinson using Tenchs card and driving Tenchs vehicle, a tan Hyundai Elantra with NC tags.

Graphic details, timeline revealed in murder case of Charlotte mother and 2 children

The report listed larceny and property damage in the amount of $7,000. An additional search warrant for Robinsons cell phone showed photographs of Tenchs North Carolina drivers license and bank card used in multiple transactions.

DShaun Montrell Robinson. (Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office)

Robinson is in the Mecklenburg County jail under a $150,000 secured bond on the conceal/failure to report a death charge and a $30,000 secured bond on the fraud and theft charges, court records show. He has a significant criminal history, including burglary, assault on a law enforcement officer, and drug possession.

Records state Robinson is due back in Mecklenburg County court on May 1.

At this time, the exact circumstances surrounding Tenchs death are unknown. Queen City News has reached out to CMPD for further information.

Detectives plan to meet with Tenchs family to discuss the active case.

This is a developing story; check back for updates

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
The Public Defender of Georgia responded to the 'Russian law' proposed by Georgian Dream, stating that the legislation's goal-to enhance transparency in foreign aid and accountability among receiving organizations-is legitimate. However, achieving this objective should not entail disproportionate interference with the right to association or dignity. The Public Defender suggested achieving the goal through alternative changes in current legislation."The Constitution of Georgia mandates that constitutional bodies must take all measures within their powers to ensure the full integration of Georgia into the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.This imperative should be especially taken into account, given that, in relation to the freedom of association and expression, as well as the right to privacy, similar arrangements reflected in the legislation of other countries have been evaluated negatively by esteemed bodies such as the European Court of Human Rights, the Court of Justice of the European Union, the OSCE/ODIHR, the Council of Europe's Human Rights Commissioner, the Venice Commission, and the UN Special Rapporteur.Accordingly, in the opinion of the Public Defender, Parliament should refrain from adopting any legal acts that may endanger the implementation of Georgia's constitutional aspirations," the statement reads.President Salome Zourabichvili, addressing attendees at the Tbilisi Contemporary Art Fair, underscored Tbilisi's unwavering commitment to freedom, artistic expression, and European principles.She stressed the vital connection between freedom and artistic expression, affirming that art cannot thrive without liberty.Zourabichvili reiterated Tbilisi's commitment to freedom and declared that Tbilisi will always be free, art will always be free, and Georgia will always be European, underscoring the country's unwavering commitment to its European aspirations."I would say that this breeze of freedom that exists here is very important for today's Georgia. Culture is nothing but great freedom. There is no art, no culture where there is no freedom.I want to congratulate you all on today's day, today's freedom, and I know that Tbilisi will always be the host of such extraordinary events. Because Tbilisi will always be free, art will always be free, and Georgia will always be European," Zourabichvili said.
PARAMARIBO, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Nestled deep within the embrace of the Amazon rainforest lies Botopasi village, right in the heart of Suriname. Getting there from the capital city of Paramaribo takes five and a half hours -- two and a half hours by car and another three by boat along the Suriname River.

Besides the underdeveloped transportation infrastructure, villagers in the region are also unable to connect to the national electricity grid, thus lacking a continuous power supply for long periods of time. The diesel fuel provided by the government only generates a five-hour electricity supply per day.

The absence of electricity and other inconveniences have compelled many Botopasi villagers to relocate to the capital in recent years, resulting in a decline in the village's population.

In 2019, Suriname's Ministry of Natural Resources signed an agreement with Power Construction Corporation of China (Power China), hoping to jointly solve the electricity problem for villagers in this area.

After studying more than 10 villages, Xiong Zekun, Project Manager of Power China of Surinam Villages Micro-grid Solar Project, and his team presented a plan to build photovoltaic stations and install transmission lines in each village, forming a microgrid in each region.

Following the approval of the plan by the Surinamese government, Power China began construction. Six months later, it delivered the first phase of the project, the Goejaba microgrid, in June 2020.

The successful operation of the first phase of the project has prompted the government of Suriname to authorize Power China to build microgrids in more villages. In October 2021, the second phase of the project was officially launched.

The village of Botopasi, where the camp for the second phase of Power China's project is located, is one of the nine villages set to benefit from the second of five complexes. Once completed, these complexes will provide uninterrupted clean energy to more than 3,000 residents.

Born and raised in the village of Botopasi, Harry Wens Potter has been assisting the Power China team since the beginning of the second phase, coordinating with local residents. "I work hard because when there is uninterrupted electricity at home, we can store food in the refrigerator and have better meals. We will have a better future," Potter told Xinhua.

After delivering the first phase of the project to the government for operation, Power China encountered many difficulties due to the lack of professional local technicians. In response, Power China has decided to operate the second phase for three years after its completion. During this period, China will assist local governments in training their own operation and maintenance personnel, aiming to enhance the project's long-term viability.

Xiong recalled the night when the first phase of the project was inaugurated. "After turning on the lights and leaving the station, I passed by a house and saw a child studying under a lit lamp. This scene made me feel that all the efforts for this project were worth it," he said. 
Donald Trump has asked Democrats to vote for independent candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr in a bizarre video posted to Truth Social.

Mr Trump called Mr Kennedy Jr the most radical left candidate in race but insisted that he was a better man than his Democratic challenger, Joe Biden.

But hes got some nice things about him, I happen to like him, Mr Trump added, before referencing RFK Jrs one-time support for the so-called Green New Scam, a reference to the Democrat-proposed Green New Deal that aimed to tackle climate change.

Mr Trump went on to say that Mr Kennedy Jr should take votes away from crooked Joe Biden.

If I were a Democrat, Id vote for RFK Jr every single time over Biden, because hes frankly more in line with Democrats, the former president claimed.

However, despite his familys close historical ties to the Democratic party, polls show that far more Republicans than Democrats have a favourable opinion of RFK Jr, according to the Associated Press.

Mr Trumps apparent push for Democrats to vote for Mr Kennedy Jr has come days after the independent candidates campaign staffer let it slip in an insinuation that she believed the purpose of Mr Kennedy Jrs campaign was to take away votes from Mr Biden.

Donald Trump appears to tell voters that Kennedy should take away Joe Bidens votes (AP)

Rita Palmas contract with the campaign had been terminated for misrepresentation, amid controversy that she told GOP voters that her number one priority was to get rid of Mr Biden by driving Democratic votes to Mr Kennedy Jr and encouraging them to volunteer for Mr Trump.

She also self-identified as the New York state director of RFK Jrs campaign, yet a spokesperson later clarified that she was just a ballot access consultant.

The spokesperson for the campaign also said Ms Palma was not speaking at a campaign event and was talking as a private citizen, with her statements not reflecting the Kennedy campaign.

In a further blow, in now-deleted social media posts reviewed by CNN, Ms Palma said she attended the Stop the Steal rally on 6 January 2021, all the while claiming it was non-violent.

She had also tweeted that Mr Trump was her favourite president and suggested she would vote for him in 2024.

The son of the late US senator Robert F Kennedy initially filed candidacy papers for the Democratic nomination in April but later switched to running as an independent candidate.

Mr Trump claimed in his recent video that he did this because the Democrats made it very, very difficult for him, they really went after him viciously, just like they go after me.

RFK Jr has previously been accused of amplifying conspiracy theories  most notably about the Covid-19 vaccine.

He was accused of making baseless claims that vaccines are linked to brain disorders. He also claimed that the virus which causes Covid-19 was ethnically targeted and was targeted to attack Caucasians and Black people.

Nevertheless, election polls from last year show that Mr Kennedy Jr could take votes away from both Mr Biden and Mr Trump in November.

The former president also went on in the bizarre video that the independent presidential candidate would be indicted any day now, probably for environmental fraud, saying this without any evidence.

However, it appeared he connected this to Mr Kennedy Jr being Bidens political opponent, not mine, and stated, Biden cant speak. Biden cant debate. Biden cant put two sentences together, so I guess hes probably going to indict RFK Jr.
THERE ARE PLENTY of reasons Trump wants to reclaim the White House in 2024, but high on the list is the belief that as president, he will be able to sabotage the myriad criminal and civil investigations hanging over his head.

In a little over a year, Trump has been indicted in four criminal cases, lost multiple civil lawsuits, been ordered to pay hundreds of millions in damages to various parties, and in May became the first convicted felon in the history of the American presidency.

Trump views the legal maelstrom surrounding his hush-money payment to a porn star, unauthorized retention of classified documents, efforts to undermine the 2020 election, and allegations of corporate fraud as part of a grand conspiracy to prevent him from retaking what he feels is his rightful place as head of government.

The drama has become an integral part of Trumps campaign as he attempts to cast his legal troubles as a form of election interference. The former president has claimed repeatedly that he should be immune from prosecution for anything he did while in office, while suggesting he will weaponize the Justice Department to prosecute President Joe Biden, as well as many of those involved in his legal cases, should he retake the White House.

The list of probes, prosecutors, trials, court rulings and government bodies investigating the former president is long, and takes on a bewildering level of complexity when one factors in the nearly constant stream of court filings, hearings, motions, and insider reports emerging on a near-daily basis. To help make heads or tails of what exactly Trump has been charged with when pending cases are likely to move forward, and whats already happened, weve prepared a guide to the six biggest cases against Trump  and the potential consequences they may bring.

Paying Off a Porn Star

Trump made history last April by becoming the first president to be arrested and charged in a criminal case, then again this May by becoming the first American president ever convicted of a crime.

Trump pleaded not guilty to 34 separate felony counts of falsifying business records brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. His criminal trial began on April 15, just over a year after the charges were brought, and ended on May 30 with a guilty verdict on all counts.

The charges related to a 2016 hush-money payment made at Trumps direction to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Two weeks before the election, Trump instructed his former attorney, Michael Cohen, to pay Daniels $130,000 to keep her quiet about an alleged affair with Trump. The payment constituted an unreported campaign expense.

The trials witnesses included Cohen, Daniels, former National Enquirer chief David Pecker, and former Trump campaign adviser Hope Hicks. Prosecutors portrayed Trump and his advisers as the masterminds of a scheme to identify and kill negative tabloid stories about the then-candidate. The lengths the group was willing to go to escalated in the aftermath of the release of the Access Hollywood tape, in which Trump bragged about sexual assault. Cohen testified that Trump directed him to pay Daniels $130,000 to prevent her affair allegations from going public in the days before the election, and that Trump participated in the cover-up of the election crime.

From his self-surrender in Manhattan last year to his daily rants to members of the press gathered outside the courtroom during the trial, Trump ensured every aspect of the trial could be exploited as a self-serving public spectacle. The former presidents relentless public attacks against the case and those involved led Judge Juan Merchan to issue a gag order against Trump that barred him from commenting on witnesses, jurors, prosecutors, and other members of the courts staff and their families. The order did little to restrain him, who was held in contempt of court, fined, and threatened with jail time for repeatedly violating the order.

Judge Merchan originally scheduled Trumps sentencing for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention, but moved it back to September so hear can hear a challenge to the conviction following the Supreme Courts ruling that presidents are immune from prosecution.

Election Interference and Jan. 6

Last August 1, the Justice Department charged Trump on four counts related to Special Counsel Jack Smiths investigation into the former presidents efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and the violent riot that took place at the Capitol on Jan. 6.

The charges included conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. Trump pleaded not guilty to the charges. In his indictment, Smith wrote that following his election loss, Trump pursued unlawful means of discounting legitimate votes and subverting the election results.

Alongside Trump, the indictment referenced six unindicted co-conspirators, later identified as Rudy Giuliani, former Trump attorneys John Eastman and Sidney Powell, former Justice Department Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Clark, and lawyer Ken Chesebro.

Smiths investigation extends well beyond Trump. The special counsel has subpoenaed everyone from former Vice President Mike Pence to ex-Trump adviser Steve Bannon, with Mark Meadows also reportedly serving a key role in both of Smiths investigations. The former Trump chief of staff was present at a now-infamous Dec. 2020 Oval Office gathering that has been reported to be a focus of the investigation. Former White House Counsel Pat Cipollone, Trump attorneys Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell, and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn also attended the meeting, during which participants allegedly discussed desperate, last ditch efforts to ensure Trump would remain in power, including seizing voting machines and invoking martial law. In a press conference announcing the charges against Trump, Smith indicated that the investigation of other individuals continues, and further charges may be pending.

Prosecutors are also probing allegations that the former president and his allies defrauded donors by touting false claims of election fraud. Smith has issued dozens of wide-ranging subpoenas for records of fundraising emails  including drafts, and suggested edits from campaign staff  as well as records of any discussions about fundraising communications and campaign messaging strategy. The investigation has also dug into Trumps efforts to meddle with election results in individual states, including Georgia, Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania.

Trump has challenged the indictment on grounds that he has immunity from any crimes he may or may not have committed while in office. Trumps legal team has sought court ruling affirming their immunity argument, and in January, claimed before the D.C. Federal Court of Appeals that  under their interpretation of the law  the president would have to be speedily impeached and convicted before a criminal prosecution could occur  even if the crime in question was something like using S.E.A.L. Team Six to assassinate a political rival.

The argument was rejected by the D.C. Appeals Court and kicked up to the Supreme Court, which heard oral arguments on the case in late April. Once again, Trumps attorneys argued that the immunity granted to a president should be virtually limitless. At one point, Justice Elena Kagan explicitly asked if a president would be immune from prosecution after an attempted coup, even after he left office.

I think it would depend on the circumstances whether it was an official act, Trump attorney John Sauer responded. If its an official act, there needs to be impeachment and conviction before [criminal charges could be pursued].

The Supreme Court ruled in July that presidents are indeed immune from prosecution for official acts taken while in office. The bombshell ruling is expected to significantly stall  if not blow up  Smiths case against Trump.

Classified Documents at Mar-a-Lago

In August 2022, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida. Authorities seized hundreds of classified documents retained by the former president following his departure from the White House. The raid was the culmination of a monthslong effort by the National Archives and federal authorities to recover the missing materials. The effort included a subpoena and the DOJ visiting Mar-a-Lago to recover the documents  to no avail, precipitating the raid.

Trump and his legal team went to great pains  even petitioning, unsuccessfully, to the Supreme Court  to prevent investigators from actually seeing what was in the documents he was hoarding in his home.

Last June, Special Counsel Jack Smith leveled a 37-count indictment against Trump. The former presidents longtime aide Walt Nauta was charged, as well, on six criminal counts. Authorities allege that Trump had not only unlawfully retained highly classified documents after leaving office, but also showed some of these documents to individuals who lacked the security clearance to view them. Furthermore, Trump is accused of having conspired to hide or destroy the documents to avoid handing them over to federal authorities. Trump pleaded not guilty on all counts at a Miami federal courthouse the following week.

Smith issued a superseding indictment a month later that leveled additional charges against Trump and Nauta, as well as charging a second Mar-a-Lago employee, Carlos de Oliveira. The DOJ alleges that the three men conspired to destroy Mar-a-Lago security footage that had been subpoenaed by investigators.

Much like in his federal election interference case, Trump has claimed prosecutorial immunity as the reason he should skirt charges  alongside several other implausible legal arguments. These include that he could declassify documents telepathically, and that the classified materials were actually his personal property, and his scrap paper.

The case was originally expected to go to trial in May 2024  months before the presidential election  but the former president has repeatedly submitted unsuccessful motions to indefinitely delay the trial, and theres no clear start date in sight.

Judge Aileen Cannon, whom Trump appointed to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in 2020, has been criticized for her apparent indecision and slow-walking of major decisions in the case. On April 3, Smith went toe-to-toe with Cannon over her requests for jury instructions, arguing that her request that the prosecution and defense entertain the idea that Trump was allowed to retain classified documents as personal material under the Presidential Records Acts blatantly contradicted established law. In June, Cannon heard arguments regarding whether the FBIs search of Mar-a-Lago was even constitutional.

The concerns about Cannons inexperience and ability to remain impartial were raised even among other judges within the Southern District of Florida. According to a June report from The New York Times, two senior judges in the district advised Cannon to pass on the case, and transfer it over to a more experienced jurist. Cannon refused, and Trumps allies have been privately celebrating what they see as a slew of boons granted to them by Cannon. One Trump adviser previously described the judge as a godsend to the former presidents case in a conversation with Rolling Stone.

Assaulting and Defaming E. Jean Carroll

Trump made history last May when he became the first president to be found liable for sexual battery in a civil court case brought by author E. Jean Carroll, who alleged that the former president had raped her in the 90s.

While Trump will not serve any jail time in this case, a Manhattan jury ruled in May that Trump was liable for sexual battery and defamation against Carroll, ordering him to pay $5 million in damages. Trump was once again found liable for defaming Carroll in September, and in January a Manhattan jury ruled that the former president owed Carroll $83.3 million in total damages after deliberating for less than three hours.

Why such a hefty sum? Well, the day after the ruling last May, Trump appeared on CNN for a town hall event, during which he repeated many of the attacks against Carroll that had originally motivated her to sue him for defamation. The former president mocked Carroll and bragged that he was too famous to have been publicly shopping at the department store where the alleged assault took place.

In response, Carroll filed for additional damages from Trump, expanding the scope of her second, separate 2019 lawsuit against him. It makes a mockery of the jury verdict and our justice system if he can just keep on repeating the same defamatory statements over and over again, Roberta Kaplan, Carrolls attorney, said of Trumps comments. A judge granted her request in June, and the jury in her pending defamation suit will be allowed to consider the additional penalties.

In June, Trumps attorneys requested a retrial for the former president on the original May ruling, which was denied In July. U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan torched the former presidents arguments that the financial penalties were too high because the jury determined that he had assaulted, but not legally raped, Carroll.

The definition of rape in the New York Penal Law is far narrower than the meaning of rape in common modern parlance, Kaplan wrote in his decision. The finding that Ms. Carroll failed to prove that she was raped within the meaning of the New York Penal Law does not mean that she failed to prove that Mr. Trump raped her as many people commonly understand the word rape. Indeed, as the evidence at trial recounted below makes clear, the jury found that Mr. Trump in fact did exactly that.

Not one to take things lying down, Trump has appealed both rulings  but in the aftermath of his second trial was forced to post a $91.6 million bond in order to do so. Given that he continues to attack Carroll despite having already lost two defamation cases to her, the chances hell manage to overturn on appeal look slim. In fact, Carroll and her team have indicated shes willing to take him to court as many times as necessary until he cuts the shit, with Carrolls attorney stating in May that all options on the table, regarding another potential lawsuit.

Election Meddling in Georgia

In the aftermath of the 2020 election, Trump attempted to undermine the results of various key swing states in order to undermine the election. Georgia was one such state.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis empaneled a grand jury in May 2022 to investigate Trump and his allies efforts to interfere with the states outcome, including efforts to pressure Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to rig the election in his favor.

Theres nothing wrong with saying, you know, um, that youve recalculated, Trump told Raffensperger during a January 2021 phone call. I just want to find 11,780 votes, which is one more than we have. Because we won the state.

An indictment, which could include charges against Trump, could come as soon as August. Sources told The Washington Post in June that Willis has expanded the probe into some of Trump and his allies activities in other states, and is considering invoking Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) laws to level racketeering charges against those involved.

In August, Trump and 18 of his allies were indicted in a widespread racketeering case over their alleged efforts to meddle with the states election. Trump himself was charged with 41 total counts, prominent figures in the Trump administration  including Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman, Mark Meadows, and Ken Chesebro  have also been charged. Notably, Georgia prosecutors became the first among Trumps four criminal indictments to release a mugshot  a first for a former president.

The case has moved slowly, with no set start date for a trial in view. Four defendants  including MAGA attorney Sidney Powell and coup plotter Ken Chesebro  have already pleaded guilty, while three others have split their cases from the state into federal court.

At one point, it looked like Willis case might fall apart. In January, Trump co-defendant Mike Roman accused Willis of engaging in an improper romantic relationship with Nathan Wade, who was hired to assist in the prosecution of the case and paid over $600,000 for his work. Roman requested that Willis be removed from the prosecution, and the case against him dismissed, on grounds that the affair presented a conflict of interest.

After a long investigation by the court into Willis and Wades affair, Georgia Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee ruled in March that the evidence against the pair was legally insufficient to support a finding of an actual conflict of interest, and that Willis could remain on the case so long as Wade stepped aside. The ruling was appealed, however, and in early May an appeals court agreed to take up the issue, all but ensuring the case will not go to trial before the election.

Corporate Fraud in New York

In Sept. 2022, New York Attorney General Letitia James brought a $250 million civil fraud case against the former president, his children, and members of the Trump Organization. James alleged that the Trump Organization made over 200 false valuations of assets over the past decade. She also said she planned to make referrals to the IRS criminal division and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York for possible federal crimes.

In September, Judge Arthur Engoron ruled that Trump, his two adult sons, and several of his associates were liable for fraud. The ruling established that Trump had overvalued his properties and inflated his net worth over several years, thus deceiving banks, investors, and insurers. The subsequent trial, which took place between Oct. of 2023 and Jan. 2024, established that Trump owed $355 million in damages to the state and barred the former president from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation or other legal entity in New York for a period of three years.

Trump planned to appeal the ruling and needed to post a $454 million bond to prevent the state from seizing his assets while he did so. James had previously told ABC News that the state would not hesitate to seize Trumps properties as payment if necessary. Trumps own lawyers wrote in February that the former president may have had to sell some of his real estate portfolio to cover the fines.

After being rejected by dozens of underwriters  and begging his followers for cash  Trump was granted a last-minute bail-out by a New York appeals court, which drastically reduced the amount of the bond to just $175 million.

Now that the former president has posted the bond, hes delayed the enforcement of the ruling against him, and (at least temporarily) skirted accountability for his actions.

James also secured a conviction against a member of Trumps inner circle. The attorney general brought a separate criminal, tax fraud case against former Trump Organization Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg in May 2021. Weisselberg was ultimately sentenced to five months in prison after pleading guilty to failing to declare and pay taxes on more than $1.7 million in company benefits provided by the Trump Organization. In April, Weisselberg was sentenced to an additional five months in prison over charges of perjury relating to his testimony in the civil fraud suit.

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WASHINGTON  Amid threats from the far right to his job, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Friday will appear with presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump at his ritzy Florida estate to promote a bill banning noncitizens from voting  something that is already illegal.

Congress in 1996 passed a law banning noncitizens from voting in federal elections, though a few states allow noncitizens to vote in local elections only. And despite Trumps fearmongering about migrants entering the U.S. to vote illegally, theres virtually no evidence of noncitizen voting.

Johnsons event with Trump on Friday  which Johnson asked for  is better viewed in the context of threats to his speakership from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and other far-right House Republicans.

Johnsons detractors are angry that he, like his predecessor before him, has avoided government shutdowns by allowing the House to vote on funding bills that passed with Democratic support. The pressure on Johnson from the right has gotten even stronger as he contemplates putting to a vote more U.S. aid to Ukraine amid its struggle to survive from daily Russian bombardment.

Greene last month filed a motion to vacate Johnson from the speakership, but she hasnt gone forward with forcing a vote on the matter, leaving Johnson twisting in the wind.

Johnson warned that a repeat vote to oust a speaker would mean more chaos in the House, pleading with his members to acknowledge the reality of not being able to get everything they want with Democrats controlling both the Senate and the White House.

Some people back home dont realize  we have the smallest majority in U.S. history, Johnson said at a Thursday press conference.

But Johnsons words alone arent likely to ameliorate hardliners like Greene, leaving him scrambling and running to Trump, the GOPs higher power.

President Joe Bidens campaign, meanwhile, denounced Johnsons event with Trump on Friday as a sham in a statement issued by Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), who co-chaired the House select Jan. 6 committee that investigated the 2020 election and Trumps efforts to overturn it based on no evidence of widespread fraud.

By virtually all measures, the 2020 election was among the most secure in our nations history, Thompson said in the statement. Donald Trump lost to President Biden by over seven million votes  fair and square. But Donald Trump still cant admit it. The sham event at Trumps country club should remind the American people of a dangerous truth: Donald Trump is a threat to our democracy and a danger to our Constitution.

Donald Trump and Mike Johnson dont care about election integrity  they care only about helping Trumps campaign of revenge and retribution to regain power at all costs, Thompson added.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., speaks during a press conference after a weekly House Republican caucus meeting at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on March 20. Johnson met with former President Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida for an event on Friday. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

April 12 (UPI) -- House Speaker Mike Johnson met with former President Donald Trump Friday as he faces threats to the gavel.

Johnson and Trump met at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida and held a press conference Friday afternoon to share remarks about election integrity.

Johnson, optimistic of Trump's chance to take back the White House in November, said the GOP also expects to win back the Senate and grow the narrow House majority based on constituents' primary concerns: election integrity and border security.

"I've been to 23 states now in the last several weeks, and everywhere we go, one of the first questions that people ask about is this issue of election integrity," Johnson said, adding the No. 1 issue on voters' minds is the southern border.

"Election integrity is tied to border security. President Biden has created a catastrophe and he did it by design," Johnson said, while attributing violent crime and fentanyl overdoses in the United States to Biden's border policy.

Former President Donald Trump hosted House Speaker Mike Johnson at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida for an event on Friday. File Photo by Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA-EFE

The speaker also announced House Republicans will introduce a bill that will require proof of citizenship to vote, require states to remove non-citizens from their existing voter rolls and provide access to databases from the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration to enforce this.

Johnson's meeting with the former president comes as pro-Trump House Republicans have voiced opposition to the speaker over his efforts to pass legislation with Democratic support.

On Wednesday, Trump took to social media to call on House Republicans to vote down reauthorization of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978. The effort to advance authorization was led by Johnson.

"Kill FISA," Trump wrote.

Trump claims that FISA was used to spy on him during his 2016 campaign for president.

The House passed a modified version of the bill to reauthorize on Friday, voting 273-147 in favor. Democrats voted 147-59 while Republicans voted 126-88. The bill must now pass the Senate by April 19.

FISA would be reauthorized for two years if it passes the Senate as is.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of Trump's most loyal supporters in Congress, has motioned to oust Johnson as House speaker over working with Democrats on legislation to advance his budget plan.

"When Republicans took the majority in the House, we swore we would never pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) and we swore we would never pass minibusses," Greene said in a statement last month. "Yet here we are under Speaker Johnson, three CRs later, a minibus, and another minibus on the horizon next week."

When asked Friday if he would stand behind Johnson or Greene, Trump did not give a clear answer.

"I think he's doing a very good job," Trump said of Johnson. "I'm sure that Marjorie understands that. She's a very good friend of mine, and I know she has a lot of respect for the speaker."

Asked whether he would support a Ukrainian aid package if Johnson were to move it forward, Trump said they are considering offering "a loan instead of a gift."

"We keep handing out gifts of billions and billions of dollars," Trump said, noting Europe needs to "step up" and "equalize" the United States' support for Ukraine.

Trump also called Biden's warning of a possible Iranian retaliation against Israel "pretty pathetic," and said Iran wouldn't attack Israel if he were president.

"This is a very dangerous period of time in our nation, and a big reason that it's dangerous is that we have a president that is grossly incompetent," he said.
Can Donald Trump Win Over Black Voters With Chick-fil-A? These Photos Are So Cringe

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 10: Former U.S. President Donald Trump meets employees during a visit to a Chick-fil-A restaurant on April 10, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. Trump is visiting Atlanta for a campaign fundraising event he is hosting. ( - Photo: Megan Varner (Getty Images)

Former President Donald Trump made a visit to an Chick-fil-A in Atlanta on Wednesday, in his latest bid to pander to Black voters, but not everyone looked pleased to see him.



Upon arrival, the former Apprentice reality star, who is currently being prosecuted in Georgia for election interference, proceeded to order 30 milkshakes, also some chicken.



What good looking people, he said. Can I have 30 milkshakes. And also some chicken. Were going to take care of the customers. Business is good? Making a lot of money? Get rich, right? he said to the fast food employees.

Photo: Megan Varner (Getty Images)

But not all of the employees looked thrilled by his visit. In fact, some of them looked downright ... concerned.

Thats not to say that no one praised the former President. I dont care what the media tells you, Mr.Trump, we support you, shouted one Black woman, who proceeded to hug Trump.

The clip was shared widely by Trumps deputy director of communications, Margo Martin and highlights how the Trump campaign has repeatedly attempted to tout purported Black support going into the 2024 election.

I dont care what the media tells you, Mr. Trump, we support you! pic.twitter.com/q49RpivIbD  Margo Martin (@margommartin) April 10, 2024

However, a March poll from the Economist/YouGov found that only 12% of Black Americans polled would vote for Trump if the election were held that day with the same likely candidates.

For context, exit polls had Trump at similar margins in 2020. It is worth noting that his favorability rating in the poll was higher than his likely support. However, theres not a single poll that suggests that Trump is overwhelmingly beloved by Black voters  but that definitely wont stop him or his supporters from claiming that.

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New Door County Land Trust property is small, but its importance to water quality is big

SISTER BAY - The Door County Land Trust's newest protected property may be relatively small in size, but it's big in its importance to water quality and the ecosystem of a big nearby nature preserve and its surrounding areas.

The land trust acquired a 10-acre property about a mile and a half from the north side of its Three Springs Nature Preserve in Sister Bay. A large part of its importance is that it includes seasonal groundwater springs that are part of the headwaters of Three Springs Creek, which winds through the 515-acre preserve and drains into North Bay, which eventually flows into Lake Michigan.

A 10-acre property near Sister Bay recently acquired by the Door County Land Trust now protects many wildlife species and seasonal springs that form the headwaters of Three Springs Creek.

The new property is off Waters End Road near its intersection with Old Stage Road in the Town of Liberty Grove. It has underground springs that pop out in the spring, and the water runs through wetlands that help filter it, then under Waters End Road and channels south to eventually become Three Springs Creek.

"Protecting these headwaters and wetlands, and the overall quality of the nature preserve, is important," said Jesse Koyen, the land trust's land program director. "It's the starting point of a healthy ecosystem."

In addition to the headwaters and wetlands, the new trust property also contains a variety of features and living things. There are a mature maple forests, a drumlin (finger-shaped hills formed by sediment and glacial flow) and an old agricultural field that Koyen said will be restored as a prairie for pollinators and birds. The wetlands not only filter the groundwater draining into the creek but also provide breeding habitat for herons and rare insects like the Hines emerald dragonfly. The forest also caters to birds migrating along the Mississippi Flyway.

The property is open to the public for visiting and hiking, but Koyen said the land trust plans to keep it rustic, with no amenities or parking.

It previously was owned by Ingrid Lawrenz, who grew up on the property and said she was interested in selling only to the land trust because of the abundance of species it holds.

"I'm very protective of it," Lawrenz said in a news release from the trust. "Every spring I go into the woods and it's full of wildflowers. In the woods, a spring bubbles up where we caught so many fish. It's amazing. There's also an increased population of fishers, gray and red fox and raccoons. Cougars and bears have also come through."

Three Springs Nature Preserve features a 1.75-mile looped hiking trail with a scenic lookout over springs and wetlands. The preserve also contains old stone fences and historic farm buildings, including a barn that is a significant roosting site for brown bats, on its 515 acres.

The Door County Land Trust protects more than 9,400 acres of wild places, scenic beauty and ecological integrity across Door County and its surrounding islands. It offers 15 featured nature preserves open to the public for hiking and other low-impact, non-motorized recreational activities, at no charge. For trail maps and more information, visit doorcountylandtrust.org.

Contact Christopher Clough at 920-562-8900 or cclough@doorcountyadvocate.com.

MORE: Door County high school students get chance to shine in singing competition, with audience voting

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FOR MORE DOOR COUNTY NEWS: Check out our website

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Door County Land Trust acquires property to protect water, wildlife
Dozens of Palestinians killed in Gaza as Hamas official vows to 'break' Israel

By Nidal al-Mughrabi

GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli forces fought Palestinian militants in the north and centre of the Gaza Strip on Friday as Khaled Meshaal, a senior official in Gaza's ruling Hamas movement, said its six-month-old battle with Israel would "break the enemy soon".

Most Israeli troops have been pulled out of the Palestinian enclave in preparation for an assault on its southernmost city Rafah, where more than 1 million Palestinians are sheltering, but fighting has continued in various areas.

Residents of Al-Nusseirat camp in central Gaza said dozens were dead or wounded after Israeli bombardment from air, land and sea that had followed a surprise ground assault on Thursday, and that houses and two mosques had been destroyed.

Health officials said earlier that six people had been killed in strikes on the cinder-block camp, which has housed Palestinian refugee families since 1948, with around 70 wounded, including three Palestinian journalists.

In Gaza City, Palestinian health officials said at least 25 people had been killed and several wounded in an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Al-Daraj neighbourhood. Gaza's health ministry said 89 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli military strikes in the space of 24 hours.

The Israeli military (IDF) said in a statement that it was pursuing "a precise intelligence-based operation" against militants and their infrastructure in central Gaza.

"Over the past day, IDF fighter jets struck over 60 terror targets in the Gaza Strip, including underground launch posts, military infrastructure and sites in which armed terrorists operated," it said. "In parallel, IDF artillery struck terrorist infrastructure in the central Gaza Strip."

In a statement, Hamas said Israel's bombardment in Al-Nusseirat targeted civilian homes and property "after failing to achieve any military accomplishment on the ground or to implement any of its criminal agendas by displacing our people".

Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians, accusing Hamas of using residential buildings for cover. Hamas denies this.

Meshaal, who lives in exile and heads Hamas' political office in the diaspora, spoke at an event in Doha, Qatar to mourn members of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's family killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza on Wednesday.

"This is not the final round," Meshaal said, referring to the current war. "It is an important round on the path of liberating Palestine and defeating the Zionist project."

At least 33,634 Palestinians, including 89 in the past 24 hours, have been killed since the Israeli offensive began, Gaza's health ministry said in an update on Friday, with most of the 2.3 million population displaced and much of the densely populated enclave demolished.

The war began when Hamas led a lightning cross-border attack into southern Israel on Oct. 7 in which 1,200 people were killed and 253 taken hostage. Around 130 are still being held incommunicado in Gaza, Israel says.

Deflecting repeated U.S. calls for restraint, Israel vows to storm Rafah because, it says, significant Hamas combat forces are hiding there after being routed elsewhere.

In the latest sign that an Israeli assault on Rafah could be imminent, warplanes dropped leaflets on a western neighbourhood asking for information about the hostages.

To residents of Tel Al-Sultan, look carefully around you, the hostages could be somewhere near you. If you want to protect your families and your future, dont hesitate to provide us with any information about the hostages and their captors, the leaflets read.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting and writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Mark Heinrich)
Duke University Has Officially Ended Its Full-Ride Scholarship For Black Students In Need Of Financial Assistance

Duke University is the latest higher educational institute to make changes following the 2023 Supreme Court ruling that ended affirmative action in admissions.

According to its student publication The Chronicle, the North Carolina college has officially discontinued its Reginaldo Howard Memorial Scholarship Program. Since its inception in 1979, the merit scholarship was created for Black undergraduates, some of whom were required to demonstrate the need for financial assistance. It covered the cost of full tuition as well as room and board for those who were selected to be a part of the program.

Duke University announced it is ending a full-ride scholarship program for Black students in the wake of the Supreme Courts affirmative action ruling https://t.co/dNK2Rst99y  philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) April 12, 2024

It is very much disheartening to hear that this program that opened the door for me to come to Duke is now being closed essentially, even though it will take on a new form, Mya Harris, a current junior at the university, said.

The scholarship was named in honor of Dukes first Black student government president, Reginaldo Reggie Harris, whose life was cut short as the result of an automobile accident in 1976 during his sophomore year.

While the original program will be no more, the Office of University Scholars and Fellows will partner with the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture to create the Reginaldo Howard Leadership Program, which will now be open to all undergraduate students, regardless of race.

Moreover, the new scholarship installment will not include a competitive selection process, per the outlet.

The Reginaldo Howard Leadership Program will honor Reggie Howards legacy by supporting Black academic excellence, intellectual community, and leadership on campus through an intentionally designed series of engagement opportunities, wrote Candis Watts Smith, vice provost for undergraduate education, in an April 9 email to Reggie Scholars and alumni.

Additionally, the Reggie Scholars received a notification to clarify the reasoning behind the decision, sharing that it was made in light of changes to the legal landscape related to race-based considerations in higher education.

Each year, roughly 15 to 20 Black students were brought on as Reggie Scholars, and current Scholars have expressed concern about not being a part of Dukes decision to terminate the program.

We were just kind of told what was happening as it was happening, said sophomore Hanna Gedion. We felt very powerless, to be honest with you.

Despite their reservations and disappointments, the move was anticipated following the Supreme Court affirmative action ruling that, as previously reported by AFROTECH, has led to a string of universities abruptly ending any initiatives in place to assist students from underserved communities who may not always have the same opportunities and resources for higher education as their white counterparts.

Were all frustrated obviously, but weve been expecting it for a while, and looking for next steps already, Gedion added. Were trying to find ways to preserve Reggies legacy.

She continued, We just want to make sure that Reginaldo Howard stays in the conversation in any way, shape or form that we can because he was a very prominent figure in Dukes history, period  not Black Dukes history, not Latino Dukes history, just Dukes history.

All philanthropic funding previously set aside for the Reggie Scholarship will now go toward the new leadership program.
CORONA, Queens (PIX11)  Police are looking for a man who attacked an on-duty NYPD officer from a train platform in Queens on Monday, according to authorities.

A man threw a glass bottle off the platform on the eastbound No. 7 train at the 103 StreetCorona Plaza station around 2 a.m., according to officials. The bottle hit the officer in the head as he stood on the street below the stations platform.

More Queens News

The bottle caused the officer to have a cut on their head and a concussion, according to police. They were taken to the hospital and expected to recover.

Police are looking for a man who attacked an on-duty NYPD officer from a train platform in Queens on Monday, according to authorities. (NYPD)

Police said the suspect ran in an unknown direction and is described as being 28 to 35 years old with a medium build.

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Jonathan Rizk is a digital journalist who has covered local news in New York City and Washington, D.C. He has been with PIX11 since August 2022. See more of his work here, and follow him on X and Facebook @OfficialRizk. Get in touch at jonathan.rizk@pix11.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
The latest headlines have thrown some Christ followers into a panic, worrying the end times is coming sooner rather than later. However, a few church leaders weighed in on the frenzy to set the record straight, and hopefully, calm everyone down.



The Prophecies and Oddities

Over the past decades, any sequence of abnormal events typically led to a new deadline for the Doomsday clock. The COVID-19 pandemic had churches shook, believing it was a plague sent by God, similar to plagues He set upon the Egyptians in the Book of Exoduswhich is what Sunny Hostin of The View was getting at.

One church even encouraged their congregation to seal their doorposts with an image of Jesus, like the Israelites did with the blood of a lamb during Passover, to avoid the angel of death.

The wave of national civil unrest in response to the sensationalized coverage of police brutality cases has also been connected to the end of dayswith Pastor J.D. Farag claiming that the Black Lives Matter movement was ultimately going to cause destruction. Apocalyptic significance was also used to explain the wars overseas between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the Israel-Gaza war.

More oddly, in the midst of unrest, CBS News reported the relocation of five purebred red heifers from Texas to the Holy Land which are connected to an Old Testament law of purification that required them for sacrifice. Jews believe these cows are a requirement for the building of a Third Jewish Temple. American evangelicals believe its a sign of the coming of the Messiah, the report says.

Then, theres everything that happened in 2024 so far. Two broods of cicadas are predicted to smother the nation when they hatch this year, after 200 years, in the billions. Earthquakes shook Taiwan and the east of the U.S. Boats crashed into bridges. And an eclipse, eclipsed (or to some, marked the beginning of the end).

In reaction to these events, some people went off the deep end. Just the other day, Florida Highway Patrol said a woman claimed she was ordered by God to go on a shooting spree because of the eclipse. Another woman was accused of throwing her young daughters of the moving vehicle before fatally crashing because she was paranoid about the apocalypse. Many others have simply let these events drive them into a panic.

However, for the body of Christ, our leaders say theres not much to worry about.

Its Just Hype

To Rev. Joseph Darby, senior pastor of Morris Brown A.M.E. Church in Charleston, S.C., said all of the frantic reports about whats happening in the world is just propaganda.

I think the hype is simply hype. We go through this at least once every generation, he said. I think if there was something different about the earthquake - like if it quaked for 10 seconds, stopped for five more seconds and then quaked for 60 more seconds and the sky turned red - I would be a little concerned about that.

Dr. Sean Souels of Kingdom Ministries Inc. out of New Jersey also said everyone needs to pipe down. He says the recent earthquake was simply an earthquakeanatural phenomenon and not something to fret over.

We are frightened at anything that throws us out of our presumed norm. We let so many things disturb us because we dont follow what the scripture says, said Dr. Souels.

Is Judgement Day Coming?

In response to being asked if were currently living in the end times, Rev. Darby said calmly, I think weve been in the end times since the resurrection of Christ.

However, Dr. Souels slightly disagreed with this notion, pointing to the Book of Acts, the second chapter. There, the Apostle Peter quotes the prophet Joel saying the day of Pentecost marked the beginning of the eschaton which is Greek for the last days.

We have been living in the last days. The last days has been since over 2,000 years ago. There have been things that have happened 500 years ago, things that have happened 700 years ago, he said. Until Matthew [chapter] 24 comes to pass, we need to sit still and relax.

The scripture hes referring to is when Jesus predicted the destruction of the Temple and spoke to His disciples about the second coming.

And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows, Jesus says in Matthew 24: 6-8 (NKJV).

Minneapolis Pastor Joshua Giles of Kingdom Embassy Worship Center said in a recent message that in the above passage, Jesus was referring to the end of an age or period of time. These occurrences are merely an indication that the world system as we know it is getting ready to change.

So, What Do We Do?

The key is to remember we cant put a time or a date on when the end comes (But of that day and hour no one knows... Matthew 24:36). Instead, leaders encourage us to follow Jesus example, and always be postured in faithful servitude whether He comes back tomorrow or in another seven centuries.

Its more of a matter of living in preparation. The very nature of the scripture doesnt give you something you can put on a timer, or clock. The nature of scripture means that Christ could come back at any time, said Darby.

So, what can the body of Christ can do in the meantime?

We can repent. We can return to the heart of the Father. We can do what the great commission tells us to do and thats to go into all the world and to reach those that are lost, preaching the message of the Gospel, Giles said.

He added, We can embrace the fact God is pouring out His spirit everywhere. We can be a part of the next move of God - and the next move of God is going to look like nothing weve ever seen.

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BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China's national observatory on Friday renewed a yellow alert for thick fog in some parts of the country.

On Friday, dense fog is expected to shroud parts of the Yellow Sea and coastal waters off the Shandong Peninsula, as well as parts of provincial-level regions including Henan, Hubei, Hunan and Chongqing, according to the National Meteorological Center.

Visibility in some affected areas will be reduced to less than 1 kilometer, according to the center.

Vessels engaged in sailing and other operations have been advised to strengthen their lookout, regulate their speed and maintain a sensible distance to ensure safe navigation.

China has a three-tier color-coded warning system for thick fog, with red being the most serious warning, followed by orange and yellow. 
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  East Lansing Police Chief Kim Johnson is on paid administrative leave, City Manager Robert Belleman tells 6 News.

I can confirm Chief Johnson is on paid administrative leave while the city attorney conducts an internal investigation into an internal complaint, Belleman wrote in an email to 6 News Thursday night. Deputy Chief Pride and Deputy Chief Brown are responsible for managing the East Lansing Police Department. I am unable to comment further on the investigation.

Johnson was hired to the position in 2020. He is the citys second Black chief of police.

Before being hired as Chief, Johnson served 30 years with the East Lansing Police Department. He started with the city in 1982 as an officer and gained ranks through the years. He left the city in 2012 with the rank of Captain, a news release from 2020 announcing his hiring as chief says.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
EAST PROVIDENCE  A three-building project of 144 income-restricted housing units in East Providence will receive no help from the city after three of five City Council members declared the $40,000-a-year tax reduction was too much for the city to afford.

The 3-to-2 council majority voted against the proposed tax-stabilization agreement, citing what they see as the project's downsides: more people in the community, more children in the schools and the unfairness of tax breaks for a developer of income-restricted housing at a time when businesses large and small suffer from lower revenue because of the Washington Bridge disaster.

The "Center City" project on Taunton Avenue, a collaboration between ONE Neighborhood Builders, Foster Forward, Crossroads Rhode Island and Family Services of Rhode Island, is still moving forward as the developers try to figure out how to either raise another $400,000 or reduce costs.

The current timeline for the project is for construction to start early in 2025 and finish by September 2026. The groups are waiting on funding decisions by RIHousing.

ONE Neighborhood Builders CEO Jennifer Hawkins shows a rendering of the "Center City" affordable apartments that her nonprofit agency hopes to build on Taunton Avenue in East Providence.

A surprising flip-flop

ONE Neighborhood Builders housing development director, Michelle Bleau, said in an interview that one way to make up the difference in cost is to reduce the cost of materials in the building, such as switching the material for kitchen countertops to a cheaper alternative.

Mayor Roberto DaSilva said in an interview that he was disappointed the agreement was killed because he met with City Council members before the meeting and had assurances that it would be supported.

"I was really surprised by the flip-flop," he said.

Before it was downsized: Nonprofits ask state to fund 160-unit affordable housing project in East Providence

DaSilva said it seemed like many of the councilors pay lip service to the need for income-restricted housing.

"Actions speak louder than words," he said.

Council members say new students mean city loses money

During the meeting on April 2, Councilwoman Anna Sousa took issue with the prospect of new students entering the East Providence school system because "we're only losing money with our increased operation."

Council Vice President Frank Rego also complained about the potential cost of adding students to the school district.

This rendering shows that the three-building complex on Taunton Avenue would look like when completed.

Councilors Rick Lawson, Sousa and Rego voted against the proposed tax stabilization agreement. Lawson made the motion to kill the agreement.

Units needed to help former foster children

Foster Forward would have access to 20 units when the buildings open. Those are desperately needed, because the people in the program may have vouchers to pay rent, but rents in Rhode Island have increased so much that few if any landlords are willing to take the vouchers because they can make more money renting to someone on the open market.

Report: RI has enough apartments for only half of its lowest-income residents, report warns

Before the pandemic, they had an easier time finding units because what the vouchers paid, and what the open market demanded, was close to the same amount. Foster Forward purchased three triple-deckers and has three units set aside in another ONE Neighborhood Builders development in East Providence for their clients, Foster Forward Executive Director Lisa Guillette said.

Annually, Foster Forward needs to find 100 to 110 units to house people for all its programs, Guillette said.

DaSilva said he sees the need for the units designated for Foster Forward.

"I don't know how anyone with a heart can vote against that," he said.

How much will the project be taxed?

While commercial and residential properties are normally taxed at a town's respective property tax rates ($14.76/$1,000 in valuation for residential; $23.03/$1,000 in valuation for commercial), the Center City project will be taxed at 8% of its gross rental income, known as the "8-law." The law allows projects with income-restricted housing to pay the lower tax rate.

Once people move into the apartments, the property tax bill will be around $170,000 a year under the 8-Law.

The city's tax stabilization agreement ordinance was intended for the type of project ONE Neighborhood Builders brought, as it would revitalize blighted properties and encourage income-restricted housing, DaSilva said.

"This thing, it's a scar on Taunton Avenue, not an attractive building, and two vacant lots that look like they've been blown up, and it's just terrible," he said. "You look at the opportunity, where there's a $65-million investment to beautify, to bring in people who historically have been low- to moderate-income, working-class people, who tend to spend money within a short perimeter of where they live. Those people will go to local shops, bars, grocery stores, and spend their money here in the city. It's absolutely an economic multiplier."

Maximum parking: Zoning board killed daycare plans, reduced density

The East Providence Zoning Board wouldn't give the project relief from the city's parking requirements of one parking space for every one unit, which meant a planned daycare facility was eliminated and the number of units, originally 160, was reduced even though the project is on a bus line, Guillette said.

The developer had asked to reduce the parking requirement to 0.75 spaces per unit.

Small businesses owners in more need than low-income residents

East Providence businesses are in more need than low-income residents trying to find somewhere to live, Sousa said.

"It'd be nice to tell the business owners as well, you don't have to pay the last quarter of your taxes because we understand that your revenue is down 40%," Sousa said.

House prices across the state are up nearly 50% while rents have been on a similar trajectory.

Lawson, who repeatedly interrupted ONE Neighborhood Builders President Jennifer Hawkins, said "small business owners are hurting" and that adding 280 people to the city would be a drain on public services, from the schools to the Fire Department to the Police Department.

"I don't think it's appropriate for municipals to be the one to fund it," he said.

Guillette said it seemed ironic that the City Council members don't want to bring more people into the city when small businesses are suffering because they've been cut off from the influx of customers from Providence coming across the bridge.

Who does get tax breaks in East Providence?

While City Council members decried the proposed theoretical loss of $40,000 for 10 years to a "developer," the city also has tax breaks for homeowners, as well as veterans, unmarried widows of veterans, Gold Star parents, blind people and anyone 65 and older.

Homeowners also get a 14% decrease for one to three family homes with a homestead exemption, which was not mentioned by City Council members.

Thanks to our subscribers, who help make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism with a Providence Journal subscription. Here's our latest offer.

Reach reporter Wheeler Cowperthwaite at wcowperthwaite@providencejournal.com or follow him on Twitter @WheelerReporter.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: East Providence council kills $40K-a-year tax break for affordable housing
Climate lawfare in international courts is a calamitous way to decarbonise the worlds $200 trillion (159 trillion) economy. It invites the destruction of what remains of political consent for net zero, risking a visceral backlash across the western democracies.

You cannot let judges  let alone foreign judges in supranational courts at the boundaries of legitimacy  have the last say on critical matters of national security, energy supply and economic self-defence in a dangerous world.

The green guards behind the avalanche of climate litigation have found a killer weapon. They know how to turn the soft law of COP climate treaties into binding law, by mobilising articles in the UN Convention or the European Convention. They know how to find friendly legal venues.

On April 9 they scored their greatest coup, winning a sweeping verdict against Switzerland at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), a precedent that must henceforth guide the courts of Britain and all 46 members of the Council of Europe. It is one-stop shopping taken to a fine art. Needless to say, none of this has any traction on the worlds autocracies.

The judges ruled that Switzerland had violated the rights to privacy and family life of some 2,000 Swiss grannies by failing to take sufficient steps to mitigate climate change. Aided by Friends of the Earth and some sharp lawyers, the elderly ladies claimed that the Swiss state was exposing them to an increased risk of death from extreme heat  in the Alpine meadows and cantons, of all places.

The judgment by the European Court of Human Rights was described as 'sinister' - RONALD WITTEK/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The British judge, Tim Eicke, issued the sole dissent: not because he differs on climate change, but because the ECHR is making up rights as it goes along, departing from the script of the European Convention. All others went along with the dossier prepared by the missionary staff lawyers of the Strasbourg curia.

I fear that in this judgment the majority has gone beyond what it is legitimate and permissible for this court to do, and unfortunately, in doing so, may well have achieved exactly the opposite effect to what was intended, he wrote.

It is a decision of the Grand Chamber, and therefore final. No matter that these affluent grannies are less likely to die of heat in Switzerland than almost anywhere else on Earth; or that the country is a beacon of ecology, with per capita CO2 emissions four times lower than the US, and two times lower than China; or that its hydropower serves as the giant battery for intermittent solar, keeping the lights on in Munich and Milan.

The judges discovered this climate right in Article 8, which states that everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life, etc. This wording was drafted by British lawyers after World War Two to defend Europe against totalitarian creepage  to stop the Gestapo knocking at the door, so to speak.

The ECHRs own past rulings make clear that Article 8 is triggered only where the threat is real and imminent. The judges have stretched this into something of an entirely different character. It is a very sinister judgment. They are enacting law, and democracy can go to Hell, said one jurist with close knowledge of Strasbourg.

The decision has echoes of Americas Roe v Wade ruling in 1973, which struck down abortion laws across half the US states. The US Supreme Court found a right to privacy in the penumbras of the 14th Amendment (i.e., it did not exist), and broadened it to cover a womans right to choose, rather than leaving this vexed moral matter to elected members of state legislatures.

This act of judicial adventurism had large political consequences. The Moral Majority was born. Southern evangelicals and northern Catholics awoke from political slumber, becoming the shock troops of the Reagan Revolution. The Republicans lurched Right, won the White House in 1980, and kept it for most of the next 28 years.

The ECHR is setting itself up as the enforcer of eco-maximalism over elected leaders, each trying to grapple with the formidable task of trying to go green, in the middle of a cost of living crisis, an energy supply crisis, a European war, a mid-East war, and war fever over Taiwan.

The court should not be surprised if it ends up with no members. The Swiss Peoples Party, the largest in parliament, has already called for Switzerlands withdrawal, calling the ruling scandalous.

I have always favoured sticking it out with the ECHR, and trying to reform from within. I am not sure any longer. The court has invented a positive duty to pursue social policies of its choosing. It is acting in ways that are fundamentally incompatible with the British Constitution.

There is nothing wrong with the European Convention itself. This country could leave the Council of Europe and retain the text in domestic law, letting the UK Supreme Court determine what Article 8 really means. I hesitate because the ECHR anchors the Good Friday Agreement. But boy, these judges are pushing their luck.

The dam broke on climate lawfare with the Urgenda case in 2019, when Dutch judges ruled that the Netherlands was in breach of international rights law. It forced the government to cut emissions by an extra 5pc in one year, the fastest structural decarbonisation ever in a complex industrial nation. Needless to say, it was done in the most dysfunctional way, under the gun.

Geert Wilders  foe of the Paris Accord  is today the ascendant figure in Dutch politics - PIROSCHKA VAN DE WOUW/REUTERS

It was followed by Shells defeat in the Milieudefensie case  Big Oils tobacco moment  when a Dutch court ruled that the company had to cut its worldwide emissions by 45pc this decade. Such judgments against good oil and gas companies chiefly causes them to offload fields to true villains operating outside any oversight, some with methane emissions 40 times higher.

The Dutch people have since spoken, as have other electorates. The Farmer-Citizen protest movement came from nowhere to become the largest party in the Dutch senate. Geert Wilders  foe of the Paris Accord  is today the ascendant figure in Dutch politics.

You cannot achieve net zero in the liberal democracies unless you keep voters on side. Only national governments have the authority to carry through root-and-branch change of the energy system. Only they can navigate this minefield through the electoral cycle.

Salvation is coming in any case, and it may be less painful than feared. The path to net zero is to outcompete the old order with better and cheaper technology, and that is already happening marvellously, thanks in part to capitalist market forces. It will continue to happen at an accelerating pace as long as the lawfare guerrillas stay out of the way.

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Ed Dwight, The First Black Astronaut Candidate, Is Finally Getting His Chance To Go To Space At 90 Years Old

Ed Dwight, The First Black Astronaut Candidate, Is Finally Getting His Chance To Go To Space At 90 Years Old | Photo: Bob Levey/Getty Images for National Geographic Documentary Films

The man who wouldve been Americas first Black astronaut is finally getting the chance to head to space.

In 1961, when the White House was under the administration of President John F. Kennedy, Ed Dwight was selected as the first Black American to train and travel to space, according to Business Insider. Despite accepting the invitation to join NASAs training program, he never had the chance to make it to outer space since they chose someone else instead. Now, through Blue Origin, an aerospace manufacturer founded by Jeff Bezos with the mission to provide a way for people to live and work in space in the future, the 90-year-old will live out an experience he thought would never happen.

On April 4, the organization announced that the Kansas native will be a part of its six-member crew that will be on the companys 25th mission to space on the New Shepard rocket. Although a launch date hasnt been set, Dwight will be joining Mason Angel, (founder of Industrious Ventures VC firm), Sylvain Chiron (founder of Brasserie Mont Blanc brewing company), Kenneth Hess (a software engineer pioneer), Carol Schaller (a retired CPA) and pilot Gopi Thotakura.

The retired Air Force pilot was born in the early 1930s, during the great depression era when racism and segregation were at an all-time high in America. Sometime after joining the Air Force, he was the only Black officer eligible to be an astronaut. When the opportunity presented itself in his late 20s, he didnt immediately jump to take it.

They told me, They will make hamburger out of you, Dwight,' he said while recalling what a superior officer told him about accepting the training program, reported Business Insider.

Dwight remained in the Air Force until he resigned. Following his resignation, he earned his MFA in Sculpture from the University of Denver and went on to start a new career as a sculptor, according to PBS. Dwights candidacy as the first potential Black astronaut had fallen under the radar of the general public until National Geographic released a documentary in 2023, The Space Race, which highlighted groundbreaking Black astronauts in American History.

I dont think America  or anybody  knows how complex the situation was, he said in the feature film, according to Business Insider.

Will you be tuned in when the New Shepard rocket launches into space?
CHARLESTON, Ill. (WCIA)  Eastern Illinois University Police Chief Marisol Gamboa  the first Latina police chief in the state  was recently honored with a Chicago Association of Women in Law Enforcement (CAWLE) award.

The CAWLE award was presented to Gamboa last month in Chicago at the organizations annual Womens History Month event. It recognizes the leadership, bravery, resilience and service of women in law enforcement throughout Illinois. CAWLE celebrates women in criminal justice through networking, mentoring, educating, and preserving their history.

Gamboa is a first-generation American and college graduate. She started as a patrol officer in Texas and eventually moved to Illinois to take over as EIUs Chief of Police.

EIU invites people with disabilities onto football field for special event

On behalf of EIU, I thank Chief Gamboa for her commitment to service leadership and to EIU as we celebrate her Chicago Association of Women in Law Enforcement award, said EIU Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Anne Flaherty. I, along with President Gatrell and the entire EIU community, are grateful to have Chief Gamboa as leader of our University Police Department. The progress she has made in changing the culture and instilling a spirit of community policing has been significant.

To Gamboas colleague and retired Illinois State Police member, Sergeant Jo Ann Armenta, her dedication to her community is as admirable as it is inspiring.

As a proud Latina in law enforcement, I cannot tell you how important it was to me and other Latinas in law enforcement to have Chief Gamboa there to be recognized by so many police VIPs, and to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other Latinas.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
Has a company treated you unfairly? Our Consumer Champion is available to help. For how to contact her click here.

Dear Katie,

I am contacting you on behalf of some dear friends. They are a couple both in their 80s, with the husband in poor health. They have recently had a new boiler installed by British Gas at a cost of over 5,000.

It has never worked. The British Gas engineer was supposed to do a flush of the system at the point of installation and failed to do so. The company has sent engineers back twice (the last occasion they took two whole days trying to get to solve the problem) and the boiler is still not working.

Consequently, my friends have been without heat for about four weeks. They have contacted an independent plumber who advised them that the pipes have not been flushed through properly, as there is a lot of muck still in the loft piping.

They are waiting for British Gas to call them back to arrange yet another visit, but I am afraid that with their vulnerability, they are being taken for a ride. They are presently keeping warm by using expensive electric heating in one room.

Can you please help them to get this matter resolved sooner rather than later, as I feel that this is another example of British Gas failing the elderly.

KR

Dear reader,

I was sorry to hear about this almighty kerfuffle involving your elderly friends and their brand spanking new boiler. The boiler was installed on March 5 and a system power flush was completed. The engineer left with the heating and hot water working. Your friends called British Gas to say that some of the radiators were not heating up  it returned the next day and re-bled the radiators to remove air. It also detected a leaking radiator valve, which it fixed. British Gas claims the engineer left with the heating and hot water seemingly working.

But then, following a call from Mr and Mrs F, British Gas returned on March 13. The boiler showed a fault code which was traced to the thermostat on the hot water tank. The engineer left with the heating and hot water seemingly working apart from two radiators. Apparently the thermostat was replaced in a return visit.

A further call from Mr and Mrs F on March 25 prompted further visits from British Gas to ascertain why the heating and hot water system was still not functioning fully. A further power flush of the system was completed.

After I got involved there was another visit from British Gas on April 5, which identified a significant blockage in one of the pipes that serves water to the propertys heating and hot water system. Quite why this wasnt spotted during the other visits I dont know, but the engineer fixed this by removing, clearing and refitting that section of the pipework. He also found that a component attached to the pipework, which allows air to be removed from the pipes, was faulty. He fixed this too, and the heating and, much to your friends relief, hot water has been functioning as it should ever since.

As a precaution to prevent the same problem from recurring, British Gas will return once more to replace some of the pipework and it will complete a further precautionary system power flush. It is also compensating your friends for any additional energy costs incurred as a result of using expensive fan heaters and an immersion heater to keep warm.

A British Gas spokesman said: This was complex due to several problems with the existing pipework system in Mr and Mrs Fs house, and our engineers attended multiple times each within 24 hours of being contacted. Following a further visit from one of our engineers on Friday, were pleased that this is now fully resolved. We know its taken a while and well pay for any additional energy costs incurred for any use of the immersion heater and fan heaters.

Your elderly friends are extremely grateful for your help in all this, and so am I, for bringing their plight to my attention. It is ridiculous that it took my involvement to get this sorted once and for all. The last time you heard from them they said they were so exhausted by it all that they were sitting down with a drink, which is understandable. I think you probably deserve one to cheers them with, too.

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WASHINGTON  Haunted by election spoilers of the past, President Joe Biden's Democratic allies have mobilized against Robert F. Kennedy Jr., intent on stopping his independent presidential bid from dooming Democrats in November.

On the 2024 campaign trail, Biden has ignored Kennedy, the anti-vaccine activist and son of deceased liberal icon Robert F. Kennedy, as he focuses solely on Donald Trump, the former president and presumptive Republican nominee.

But behind the scenes, the Democratic National Committee recently hired a team of attorneys, led by Dana Remus, Biden's former White House counsel, to monitor Kennedy's efforts to get his name on ballots of key battleground states before upcoming spring and summer qualifying deadlines.

And the DNC has expanded operations to paint Kennedy as a radical conspiracy theorist, rejected even by his family, whose campaign serves one purpose: boosting Trump's chances. Democrats are convinced much of the electorate isn't aware of Kennedy's controversial positions and theories or that he's boosted financially by a Trump Super PAC's largest donor.

"We're not taking anything for granted. No one wants to see what happened in 2000 and 2016 happen this time around, so we're putting pieces in place early," said Matt Corridoni, a DNC spokesman.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at a Cesar Chavez Day event at Union Station on March 30, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. The 70-year-old candidate is pushing Latino outreach in a long shot Independent bid in the 2024 presidential race.

Trump: 'If I were a Democrat, I'd vote for RFK Jr.'

Seven months from the election, Kennedy has the support of 11.7% of likely voters, according to a RealClearPolitics average of polls. That doesn't make him a serious contender to win the election. But Kennedy's current double-digit standing is more than enough to swing outcomes in battleground states.

Democrats still blame Green Party nominee Jill Stein in 2016 for taking progressive votes away from Hillary Clinton, potentially costing Clinton Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin to Trump. In 2000, consumer rights advocate Ralph Nader won more than 97,000 votes in Florida, significantly greater than the margin of George W. Bush's victory over Al Gore in the state that gave Bush his victory.

"Any amount of shift, any amount that that RFK takes from either candidate, is a danger to them and could, in fact, flip the election," said Bernard Tamas, a political science professor at Valdosta State University and author of "The Demise and Rebirth of American Third Parties."

"If I was working for the Biden campaign, I would take it very seriously because you don't know what's going to happen with him. The numbers will probably drop a lot," Tamas said. "But you just don't know. It's an enormous uncertainty."

Whether Kennedy takes more votes away from Biden than Trump  or whether it's about the same from both  has been debated among political observers. Kennedy is also facing increasing attacks from Trump's Super PAC, MAGA Inc., which has labeled Kennedy a radical far-left liberal in a push to pull progressive voters from Biden.

Trump's allies believe that the multiple independent or third-party candidates in the race help Trump's chances, and are seeking to elevate their campaigns, the New York Times reported this week.

"If I were a Democrat, I'd vote for RFK Jr. every single time over Biden because he's frankly more in line with Democrats," Trump said in a video released by his campaign Thursday. "I do believe that RFK Jr. will do very well, and I do believe he's going to take a lot of votes away from crooked Joe Biden."

Consumer advocate Ralph Nader announcing his candidacy for president in 2000 at the Madison Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Voters view Biden, Trump more negatively than Kennedy

Kennedy initially launched a Democratic primary challenge against Biden before switching to an independent run last year.

Also threatening to peel off voters from Biden are left-leaning activist Cornel West, who is running as an independent, and Stein, who like 2016 is running as the Green Party's nominee. For now, the DNC is focused primarily on Kennedy, whose fundraising and organization far exceed the campaigns of West and Stein.

Democrats believe Kennedy's polling is inflated by his famous last name  arguably the most iconic brand in Democratic politics  and from avoiding heavy scrutiny until recently. Historically, third-party candidates perform better in polling than in elections, particularly months away from the start of voting.

Polling regularly finds Americans view Kennedy, who many say they know little about, more favorably than Biden and Trump. A Marquette University Law School poll last week found 60% of voters have an unfavorable opinion of Biden and 56% an unfavorable view of Trump, but only 39% view Kennedy unfavorably. Thirty percent of respondents said they hadn't heard enough about Kennedy to form an opinion.

President Joe Biden smiles during a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (out of frame) in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, DC, April 10, 2024.

Democrats see the unfamiliarity as an opening to define Kennedy and keep him from siphoning independent and Democratic voters from Biden.

Mobile billboards funded by the DNC  featuring doctored photos of Kennedy and his newly named running mate, Nicole Shanahan, wearing red "Make America Great Again" hats  followed Kennedy at fundraisers in Florida last week.

"MAGA's spoiler candidate," a DNC ad placed in La Opinion, a Spanish-language newspaper based in Los Angeles., warned ahead of a March 30 "Viva Kennedy" event targeting Hispanic voters.

A billboard launched by the Democratic National Committee highlights how Robert F. Kennedy's Super PAC is receiving millions from Donald Trump's largest donor, Timothy Mellon on February 9, 2024 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In cable television appearances, Democrats are increasingly flagging Kennedy's long trail of conspiratorial statements  that COVID-19 was "ethnically targeted" to attack certain ethnicities, his uncertainty of the government's explanation of the 9/11 attacks, and his warnings that the U.S. has been collecting DNA from Russia and China to create "ethnic bioweapons."

And they are highlighting Kennedy's considerable financial backing from Trump donors. The largest donation, $20 million, to Kennedy's main Super PAC, American Values 2024, came from Timothy Mellon, an 81-year-old Republican megadonor from Wyoming. Mellon has also donated $15 million to MAGA Inc., the 2024 election, the most of any donor to Trump's Super PAC.

A 'spoiler for both,' Kennedy campaigns says

In a statement, Kennedy press secretary Stefanie Spear said the campaign is "planning on being a spoiler for both President Biden and President Trump."

"We also plan to be a spoiler for the war machine, Wall Street, Big Ag, Big Tech, Big Pharma, Big Energy, and the corporate media," Spear said. If Americans are ever going to escape the hammerlock of the two parties and their corrupt backers, now is the time to do it. These are the two most unpopular candidates in living memory.

Over the past week, Democrats seized on comments made by Kennedy in a CNN interview calling Biden a bigger threat to democracy than Trump and remarks from a Kennedy campaign consultant from New York who said her No. 1 priority" is defeating Biden. The campaign said Wednesday it terminated the contract of the consultant, Rita Palma, for "misrepresentation."

Former U.S. President Donald Trump arrives in Atlanta on April 10, 2024, for a campaign fundraising event.

The scale of the DNC's anti-Kennedy operation  and whether the party will spend vastly more resources to pay for television ads  is still unclear. It could depend on whether Kennedy is successful in qualifying for the ballots in the six to eight battleground states that could decide the election.

Solidly red Utah is the lone state where Kennedy has officially qualified to run as an independent for the 2024 election, though his campaign has touted collecting enough signatures in several others. Laws to qualify to run for president vary by state  and the team of lawyers hired by the DNC intend to scrutinize Kennedy's efforts.

"We're going to make sure that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is playing by the rules," Corridoni said.

Besides the DNC, several members of the Kennedy family have also raised alarm about their relative's bid. In a showing of support for Biden, dozens of members of the late John F. Kennedy's family visited the White House last month to celebrate St. Patrick's Day  with Robert F. Kennedy a notable absence.

Kennedy has found traction in 2024 election polling in part because of the vast number of voters known as the "double haters" those who dislike Biden and Trump. Polling has found double haters make up between 15% and 20% of the electorate.

A USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll taken in March found 44% of double haters currently back various third-party candidates led by Kennedy, who drew support from 21% of these voters. Trump led Biden among double haters 25%-18% in the poll. Stein had the backing of 7% of double haters, while West was supported by 6%.

Cornel West speaks during a press conference calling for Congress and the US Department of Justice to launch a federal investigation into the hiring and promoting practices of United Airlines at The National Press Club September 15, 2016 in Washington, D.C.

But Tamas, an expert on third parties in the U.S., said independent or third-party runs that gain traction  most notably Ross Perot, who won 19% of the vote nationally in 1992  tend to tap into discontent from blocs of voters who feel underrepresented. They often zero in on a singular theme. For Perot, it was economic populism.

Tamas questioned whether Kennedy's candidacy has the right ingredients to take off given the hodgepodge of issues he discusses.

At the same time Kennedy touts his environmentalism credentials in appeal to left-leaning votes, for example, he questions medical experts about vaccines and COVID while promising to "seal the border to illegal immigration."

"Since he's not defining himself, chances are the Democrats and Trump are going to do a pretty good job of defining him for him," Tamas said, arguing that Kennedy probably isn't as big a threat as he looks in polls.

"But  and this is a giant but  since 2000, these elections have been so close that it really is only going to take a shift of maybe 1% or 2% of the vote to potentially flip the election," Tamas said.

Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How Biden's allies hope to stop RFK Jr. from becoming election spoiler
Logo of the Montana Public Defenders (Photo via State of Montana).

A lawyer who admitted she tried to take possession of a house without its owners permission is no longer a staff attorney for the Montana Office of the Public Defender.

However, Scotti Ramberg, whose last day with the Missoula office was March 8, is working on contract with the Office of the Public Defender.

In a separate incident, the Missoula County Attorneys Office charged her this week with misdemeanor theft.

The affidavit of probable cause for the misdemeanor said she asked a security guard to delete a video that recorded the theft  but said she told him she was joking after he said he could not do so.

Ramberg could not be reached for comment Thursday.

In the separate lawsuit last year, a property owner sued Ramberg, then on staff with the Office of the Public Defender, for trying to illegally take his house in Missoula.

The complaint alleged she had set up a couple of limited liability companies and used one of them to illegally record construction liens worth $109,000 against the home.

The lawsuit also alleged Ramberg had taken control of the house, whose property owner lived out of state, and she had rented it out to at least one of her clients in the Office of the Public Defender.

The lawsuit was settled in September 2023, but a court order found Ramberg had admitted to all allegations by failing to answer questions despite being granted multiple extensions by the court.

Through the proceedings, Ramberg remained employed with the state; her 2023 hourly rate was listed as $45.43, or $94,494 annually. The Office of Public Defender earlier told the Daily Montanan it investigates claims that would affect any employees ability to ethically practice law.

In March 2024, the Office of Public Defender confirmed Ramberg was no longer a staff employee; a spokesperson was not at liberty to discuss details.

A theft investigation separate from the lawsuit took place in late 2023 and early 2024, and a case report from the Missoula County Sheriffs Office recommended Ramberg be charged with felony theft.

The County Attorneys Office charged her this week with misdemeanor theft, and an affidavit of probable cause outlines the events leading up to the charge:

On Dec. 22, 2023, Ramberg and her ex-husband were in a contentious court hearing, and after the hearing, her ex left the courtroom but forgot his cellphone and wallet on the table, the court document said.

Ramberg crossed to the table where he had been sitting, took his phone and wallet, and threw them in the garbage with a coffee cup, causing it to make an audible bang, the affidavit said.

The case report described the stolen property as the phone and $500 in cash.

The bailiff saw her throw the items away, retrieved them, and gave them to the court clerk, the affidavit said. It said the ex returned to the courtroom soon after and collected his belongings.

Many days later  Ramberg approached the security desk in the Missoula County Courthouse and asked if the courthouse was covered by cameras, said the affidavit. Ramberg also asked if there was a recording from December 22, 2023.

A security officer confirmed the system had recorded the incident.

Ramberg then described the incident to the security guard, that the video incriminated her, and asked the security guard to delete the recording, the affidavit said. The security guard responded that he could not delete the recording, and even if he could, he would not.

The guard said she could request a copy of it from the Missoula County Sheriffs Office, according to the court record.

Ramberg then stared at the security guard with a blank look on her face and after a few seconds, informed the security guard that she was just joking and walked away, the affidavit said.

The Office of the Public Defender did not respond to questions Wednesday or Thursday regarding Rambergs contract or her caseload for the state. A standard memorandum of understanding lawyers sign with the Office of the Public Defender requires contractors to notify managers of any discipline imposed by courts, criminal charges or client complaints.

In emails, Missoula County Attorney Matt Jennings said his office typically seeks outside special prosecutors when there are allegations against people who regularly work with his office. However, he said it has been increasingly more difficult to get assistance from other agencies.

He said his office asked three other agencies to take the case against Ramberg to avoid any appearance of a conflict. Two declined and another did not respond to the request, so he said his office is keeping it.

In an email Wednesday, Jennings also said there is no legal conflict, but we just have lots of cases where she is the defense attorney. He said the charge was filed Tuesday, although he did not believe Ramberg had yet been served.

Ramberg affidavit

The post Embattled lawyer, no longer on staff with Montana Public Defender, charged with theft appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Energy minister says Ukraine's energy system stable, urges citizens to prepare for 'any scenarios'

Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said on April 12 that Ukrainians should be prepared for possible power outages in the spring or summer amid ongoing Russian attacks against energy infrastructure.

Moscow has recently intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure, destroying several thermal power plants across the country, including the Trypillia plant, the main electricity supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts.

In March, attacks reportedly damaged or completely destroyed 80% of the thermal generating capacity of DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company.

Ukraine's energy system is currently undergoing the largest-scale series of attacks by Russia, according to Halushchenko. Over the past three months, Russia has reportedly conducted around 30,000 strikes on Ukrainian territory.

Nevertheless, Ukraine's energy system "is working steadily" despite a series of Russian attacks, the minister said on the national television.

A possible shortage of power capacity depends on the impact of further Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy system, according to Halushchenko.

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When asked about possible blackouts in the autumn of 2023, Halushchenko answered that it was worth buying generators and power banks.

"Buy them (generators and power banks), get ready. But we will do everything we can to ensure that you do not need them," Halushchenko said.

"Massive attacks have resumed, so we need to be prepared for any scenarios, but power engineers are doing everything around the clock to ensure that they are not needed."

Back in early October 2022, Russia launched a months-long series of missile and drone attacks against Ukraines energy infrastructure, leading to blackouts amid freezing temperatures and reportedly damaging half of the countrys energy system.

Read also: Russia launches large-scale attack across Ukraine, hitting energy infrastructure

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Conan OBrien says people who didnt know who he was on new travel series are not that impressed

Conan OBrien is gearing up for a new iteration in his career as show host extraordinaire.

The former Late Night and Conan funnyman spoke with CNNs Jake Tapper on Thursday about his upcoming Max travel series Conan OBrien Must Go, in which he travels around the world to experience local cultures and connect with fans. (Max and CNN are both owned by Warner Bros. Discovery.)

I love talking to people, OBrien said this week. Its just a joy, its really fun.

One of his favorite parts about his experience filming the travel series was not just meeting and surprising fans, he said, but also how hed constantly bump into people who didnt know who he was.

Theyre not that impressed, he joked. And I egg them on until they really put me down and I dont know why, but it makes me so happy.

In the series, which is set to premiere on Max next week, OBrien visits locales including Ireland, Norway, Thailand and Argentina, and he said he loved each destination equally.

I cannot say I liked one country more than another, he said, adding that each episode is very different, but they were really fun to do.

Another special destination that OBrien recently visited was his old stomping grounds during an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon earlier this week. OBrien hosted The Tonight Show at that NBC studio from 2009 to 2010.

OBrien told Tapper that his studio was actually across the hall from where Fallons show tapes, and even though he didnt pop onto his old set, he said it was a great feeling to be back in the building.

It felt very nice to just be back on that floor. There are still some who came out who are still working at NBC who were there when I was there, he said, describing the reunions as very emotional.

It was a very sweet feeling, it was so nice to be back, he added.

OBrien hosted Late Night from 1993 to 2009, before his brief stint hosting The Tonight Show. His TBS late-night show Conan ended in 2021 after 11 seasons.

Conan OBrien Must Go debuts on Max on April 18.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
SHANGHAI, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai in east China exported 149 ships in the first two months of 2024, marking a remarkable increase of 112.9 percent year on year, according to Shanghai Customs.

During the same period, the total value of these exports reached 9.95 billion yuan (about 1.4 billion U.S. dollars), amounting to staggering year-on-year growth of 222.2 percent, the customs said.

The volume and value of ship exports from Shanghai, a key stronghold of China's shipbuilding industry, accounted for 15.9 percent and 20.6 percent, respectively, of the total national ship export volume and value in the first two months of 2024.

Among the exports, the value of ships exported to the European Union increased to 3.28 billion yuan, accounting for nearly one-third of Shanghai's total ship export value.

Last year, Shanghai's ship exports amounted to 44.5 billion yuan, up 48.8 percent compared to 2022.

According to statistics released by the China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry, China's shipbuilding completion volume had totaled 42.32 million deadweight tonnes (DWT) in 2023, an increase of 11.8 percent compared to the previous year.

Additionally, new orders received in 2023 had amounted to 71.2 million DWT -- marking significant growth of 56.4 percent compared to 2022, it added. 
Madonnas son Rocco hosted an art show in Miami while she was in town for her tour

From pop music to charcoal drawings, a famous family graced Miami this week with their art.

Rocco Ritchie, a London-based artist and son of pop icon Madonna and filmmaker Guy Ritchie, celebrated the opening of his first solo show in the United States Wednesday night in Miamis Design District. The show, called Pack A Punch, features 20 portraits of Muay Thai fighters inspired by a recent trip Ritchie took to Thailand.

The show, originally meant to be up for two days, has been extended until Friday by appointment.

Rocco Ritchie, a London-based artist and Madonnas eldest son, made his United States debut with Pack a Punch in Miamis Design District.

Im obviously a little nervous, but Im happy with the work and space, and Im grateful that I can do it, Ritchie said. I think Miami is a popping art movement, theres a lot going on. I was lucky enough to find a space, so I took the opportunity.

Earlier this week, Madonna wrapped her Celebration Tour with three concerts in Miami, where she honored victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting and brought Ricky Martin on stage. Besides a late appearance from Madonna, guests at Ritchies show included Miami musical royalty Gloria, Emilio and Emily Estefan, Design District real estate developer Craig Robins, restaurateur and club owner David Grutman, Miami Dolphins linebacker Duke Riley, Lauren Jauregui of Fifth Harmony fame, and about 100 well-dressed, suntanned visitors.

Gloria Estefan, Rocco Ritchie and Emilio Estefan at Ritchies Design District art show in Miamis Design District Wednesday night.

Born in Los Angeles in 2000, Ritchie studied at Central Saint Martins and the Royal Drawing School in London. He used to create and sell art under the pseudonym Rhed, but the cat was let out of the bag in 2021 after Too Faced Cosmetics co-founder Jerrod Blandino posted about purchasing a painting from Ritchie on Instagram. His foray into the art world has spurred critiques from some art critics who questioned the young artists skill level and early success.

Jessica by artist Rocco Ritchie on display at his show Pack a Punch in Miamis Design District.

Ritchie, now 23, is heavily inspired by British painters such as Lucian Freud, Paula Rego and Francis Bacon with a splash of Pablo Picasso. Those influences are apparent in the Design District show with its twisting bodies, dramatically dark shadows, jagged musculature and banged-up faces. Still, a viewer may wonder if the slightly-off body proportions in some of the drawings (like a too-small foot or too-short arms) are stylistic choices or not.

London-based artist Rocco Ritchies debut solo show in the United States in Miamis Design District features drawings of Muay Thai fighters.

Ritchie has shown his work at the Palazzo Reale in Milan and in London, which sold out, said art dealer Jessica Draper. The works at Pack a Punch are also on sale for $25,000 a piece, she said. Five sold last night.

Hes very interested in the human figure, the human form, Draper said. The charcoal works on canvas were inspired by a show at the Courtauld Gallery in London by Frank Auerbach, where he works in charcoal. And [Ritchie] felt like this medium reflected the practice of Muay Thai, which is all about movement.

Ritchie told the Herald that hes looking forward to several upcoming projects.

This is the beginning of a much longer road, he said.

Madonna with Ingrid Casares and Chris Paciello at Rocco Ritchies solo art show in Miamis Design District Wednesday night. Ritchie is a London-based artist and Madonnas eldest son.

In true Madonna fashion, the proud mom of six pulled up to the event about 30 minutes after it was supposed to end. She stepped out of a jet black car wearing a bright emerald green suit, a white cowboy hat and a smile as she greeted her son.

Ritchie happily linked arms with his mother as he showed her around the exhibition. Maybe celebrities really are just like us.

The Queen of Pop was accompanied by a Secret Service-like entourage of bodyguards who enforced her strict no photos rule while she attended the show. When a rather bold man asked Madonna for a photo, she turned to him and said, For a million dollars.

Mick and Paul by artist Rocco Ritchie at his show Pack a Punch in Miamis Design District.

Pack a Punch by Rocco Ritchie

Where: 30 NE 40 St., Miami

When: On view by appointment until April 12

Info: Email jessicaantoniadraper@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.

This story was produced with financial support from individuals and Berkowitz Contemporary Arts in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The Miami Herald maintains full editorial control of this work.
For Nelly Vaquera-Boggs, the plastic tarps that cover strawberry fields in Monterey County when they are being fumigated with toxic chemicals offer little comfort  especially when those fields are close to schools.

The tarps, she said, sometimes come loose in the wind. They can get holes.

And in the small farm towns of the Pajaro Valley, where schoolyards often abut agricultural land, Vaquera-Boggs worries that  tarps or no tarps  those pesticides are drifting beyond the fields and endangering children.

"Teachers have been concerned about nearby application of pesticides and fumigants for decades," said Vaquera-Boggs, president of the Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers. "We live in an area that provides strawberries and a lot of the food that we consume, but we also still believe this can happen and our communities can be safe."

This month, the teachers union, which represents around 1,100 school employees, joined four environmental and social justice groups in suing Monterey County agriculture officials and state pesticide regulators, alleging they disregarded children's health by allowing several farms to use restricted pesticides in close proximity to three elementary and middle schools whose students are mostly Latino.

"It's environmental racism," said Yanely Martinez, a Greenfield City Council member and organizer for the group Safe Ag Safe Schools, one of the plaintiffs. "These are communities of people of color. These are the communities of farmworkers that are putting food on the table. The families are being silently killed."

Read more: How a long history of racism and neglect set the stage for Pajaro flooding

The lawsuit, filed April 4 in Monterey County Superior Court, targets the Monterey County agricultural commissioner, Juan Hidalgo, and the California Department of Pesticide Regulation and its director, Julie Henderson.

The plaintiffs, which include the Center for Farmworker Families, the Monterey Bay Central Labor Council and Californians for Pesticide Reform, are being represented by the environmental law nonprofit Earthjustice.

At issue are six permits  issued last summer by county agriculture officials under the purview of state regulators  that allowed the use of the fumigants chloropicrin and 1,3-dichloropropene (known as 1,3-D) in fields near Ohlone Elementary School, Hall District Elementary School and Pajaro Middle School, which also have on-site daycare programs.

The plaintiffs allege county agriculture officials are too quick to rubber-stamp pesticide permits without properly considering alternatives.

"It's rarely the case where you see permits being denied. It's approval after approval," said Martinez, a mother of four who said she and other organizers have been repeatedly stonewalled by county officials who refuse to meet with them.

In a statement, the Monterey County agricultural commissioner's office said it "meticulously follows all federal and state regulations when issuing pesticide permits."

"We conduct regular field inspections to ensure compliance and promptly investigate any illnesses or concerns related to pesticide use that may arise in the community. Protecting agricultural workers, our neighborhoods, and the environment isn't just a job for us  it's our duty."

The state Department of Pesticide Regulation said in a statement that it continuously evaluates potential impacts of pesticide exposure on sensitive populations, including children. It did not directly comment on the lawsuit.

According to the department's annual report for pesticide use for 2021, the most recent year available, Monterey County ranked sixth among California's 58 counties for the amount of pesticides applied, with more than 9 million pounds used on 6.5 million acres.

State health officials have long reported that children in Monterey County are among the most likely in California to attend schools near fields treated with toxic pesticides.

Read more: Before disastrous flood, officials knew Pajaro River levee could fail but took no action

The fumigants named in the suit are used to kill soil-borne pathogens and pests  namely, nematodes, the ubiquitous worms that can wreak havoc on plants including strawberries, which are the most lucrative crop in Monterey County, bringing in nearly $1 billion a year.

Chloropicrin  which was used as a tear gas during World War I  can severely irritate the eyes, throat and lungs, leading to coughing, choking and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Federal health agencies have long considered 1,3-D a likely carcinogen.

Both fumigants are designated in California as restricted materials, which require a county-issued permit for use because of their higher potential for harming human health compared with other pesticides.

The lawsuit does not name specific incidences of children, school employees or other adults being sickened by the fumigants.

Norm Groot, executive director of the Monterey County Farm Bureau, dismissed the lawsuit as the work of activist organizations that do not understand that, "without agricultural chemicals in situations where we are growing crops very sensitive to pests and diseases, we won't have food."

Groot said the fumigants in this case are injected into the soil, which is then placed under a plastic tarp that remains over the field for seven to 10 days until the chemicals have dissipated. There is "no transmission into the atmosphere of any of these chemicals," Groot said.

Six farms, each of which obtained permits to fumigate, also are named in the lawsuit.

A manager for one of them, Bay View Farms LLC, said the fumigation process is "really heavily regulated and inspected by not just the county, but also the state."

Bay View Farms, he said, grows strawberries on about 45 acres near Ohlone Elementary. It got a permit last August to use chloropicrin and 1,3-D. The manager, who spoke to The Times on the condition of anonymity to discuss pending litigation, said that every three years the Bay View crop is rotated with another company that grows vegetables.

"We do it when the students are not at school," he said of fumigating. "We don't want to do anything to kids."

Greg Loarie, an attorney for Earthjustice, said it has long been "nearly impossible" for members of the public to learn exactly when fumigants are going to be applied so they can take precautions, like avoiding being outside near the fields. The permits are valid for at least several months and are not easily accessible for inspection since they are not posted online and require a public records request to view.

Parents and teachers certainly have a right to know when toxic pesticides are being sprayed right next to their schools, and this process needs to be public and needs to be meaningful," he said.

"What we really want, at the end of the day, is we want the poisoning to stop. We want someone to be addressing the fact that cumulative exposure to these pesticides, year after year, is poisoning our kids."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
DANVILLE, Va. (WFXR)  Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced that a specialty packaging manufacturing company will invest $37.4 million to expand its facility in the River City and bring 24 new jobs.

EPL American, LLC, a global specialty packaging manufacturer, intends to invest the money for building upgrades at its current 200,000-square-foot facility in Danville. The company will also add new machinery that will allow it to grow into a beauty and cosmetic market to serve customers interested in replacing plastic products with laminated tubes.

Virginia and EPL have worked together for more than 20 years, and I am proud that their leadership decided to reinvest in the Commonwealth of Virginias comprehensive talent pool and growing manufacturing sector through this expansion, said Gov. Youngkin.

$14 million renovation expanding Hotel Roanoke

EPL America, LLC is part of EPL Group and produces plastic laminated tubes for industries including oral care, beauty and cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Since the business launched in India in 1984, it has partnered with the worlds top fast-moving consumer goods companies to produce packaging for their products.

EPL Limited currently operates 21 factories across five continents and began operating its U.S. sites in Danville in 2002.

We at EPL are grateful to Governor Glenn Youngkin and the incentives provided from the state of Virginia, said Mauro Catopodis, President, EPL Limited Americas Region. This will strengthen our long-term commitment to the City of Danville and the Commonwealth of Virginia and help us become a bigger economic benefactor in the community. Thank you on behalf of our 315 employees in Danville and 3,700 worldwide.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the city and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance to secure the project. Gov. Youngkin approved a $90,000 grant from the Commonwealths Opportunity Fund to assist the City of Danville with the project.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
DENVER (KDVR)  The historic Estes Park Aerial Tramway has been closed for a couple of years, but its reopening under new ownership this spring.

The tramway, built by engineering pioneer Robert Heron, first opened in July 1955. Since then, it has safely transported over 3 million visitors to the summit of Prospect Mountain, according to a release from the new owners.

When Robert died in 1999, his son John Heron moved to Estes Park to continue the family business. John died in 2022, and the family posted on the tramways Facebook page saying they could no longer operate it as a family business.

Does Colorados high elevation impact allergies?

This decision did not come easily. We would like to see the heritage of the Tramway continue and we are open to all interested parties and ideas, the family posted.

Gondola Ventures, LLC purchased the tramway from the family and said it is committed to revitalizing this iconic attraction while honoring its rich history and heritage.

The revitalizing process began with property upgrades this week, according to the release. Those upgrades include:

Repaved and restriped parking lot

Exterior and interior architectural improvements

Signage

Accessibility improvements

The iconic fire engine red tram cabins will continue operating, according to the release.

Our goal is to blend the tramways storied past with modern enhancements that will elevate the guest experience, long-time general manager Adrian Liddell said.

The tram takes visitors to a viewing platform at the top of Prospect Mountain, offering unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains and Continental Divide, GVC said.

The attraction also includes a cafe and a gift shop.

The grand reopening is scheduled for May 25. There is a new online ticketing system with timed entry, and those interested can sign up to be notified when tickets go on sale.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
EU, Britain and Spain say significant progress made in talks on post-Brexit status of Gibraltar

FILE - People walk past a Brexit information office at the British territory of Gibraltar, on Jan. 31, 2020. British and Spanish foreign ministers are to meet in Brussels on Friday April 12, 2024 in a bid to take a giant leap forward on talks over the status of the disputed territory of Gibraltar following Britain's exit from the European Union. All sides are eager to clinch a deal before European elections in June which could set the clock back. Britain left the European Union in 2020 with the relationship between Gibraltar and the bloc unresolved. (AP Photo/Javier Fergo, File)

MADRID (AP)  British and Spanish foreign ministers said a new round of talks held Friday over the status of the disputed territory of Gibraltar following Britains exit from the European Union were productive and significant progress was made.

The meeting was between Spain's Jose Manuel Albares, Britains David Cameron and European Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic in Brussels. Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo also attended. It was the first time representatives from the four areas had come together for talks on the issue.

In a statement after the meeting, the parties said "discussions took place in a constructive atmosphere, with significant progress achieved.

General political lines have been agreed (on), including on airport, goods and mobility. Negotiations will continue over the coming weeks to conclude the EU-UK Agreement, it added.

All sides are eager to clinch a deal before European elections in June.

Britain left the European Union in 2020 with the relationship between Gibraltar and the bloc unresolved. Talks on a deal to ensure people and goods can keep flowing over the Gibraltar-Spain border have made halting progress in the 19 rounds of negotiations so far, but both Spanish and U.K. officials have recently expressed optimism about a deal.

In Britains 2016 Brexit referendum, 96% of voters in Gibraltar supported remaining in the EU. The tiny territory on Spain's southern tip depends greatly on access to the EU market for its 34,000 inhabitants.

Gibraltar was ceded to Britain in 1713, but Spain has maintained its sovereignty claim ever since. Relations concerning the Rock, as it is popularly referred to in English, have had their ups and downs over the centuries.

A major sticking point has been who controls Gibraltars airport, which under the proposed free-movement deal would be an external border of the EU. The U.K. and Gibraltar have resisted Spains insistence that Spanish border officials be based at the airport, which is also home to a Royal Air Force base.

The British Foreign Office said Thursday that while it did not expect a final agreement Friday, "getting senior political figures from the UK, European Commission, Spain and Gibraltar in one room is significant.

___

Associated Press writer Jill Lawless reported from London.
The strategic importance of the Strait of Gibraltar cannot be underestimated. It is one of the most important shipping routes in the world. From its iconic Rock, one can look southwards both towards Jebel Musa in Morocco and towards the Spanish exclave of Ceuta, which has been in Portuguese and then Spanish hands for more than six centuries.

Gibraltar, though, has  quite uniquely  been under British rule for more than three centuries. How that happened is a good example of unexpected consequences. At the start of the eighteenth-century, Britain supported a claimant to the Spanish throne who, with British help, used Gibraltar as a base from which to attempt to win Spain in competition with a French rival. He went off to become Holy Roman Emperor instead (not a bad alternative) and Britain only then decided to hold on to the Rock. It proved to be a valuable asset. A line of British bases was eventually created from Gibraltar through Malta and Cyprus to the Suez Canal, which was of enormous strategic and commercial value.

Bits of that defensive line still exist: the RAF base in Gibraltar is matched by the two British bases in Cyprus which, like the Rock, remain sovereign British territory, and are proving their worth in the bitter conflicts in the Middle East. It is certainly not in the interests of Nato for the British hold on these bases to be weakened.

Yet that could very well happen if European Union and Spanish efforts go their way. As talks over the post-Brexit border deal with Spain resume, long standing plans to make its airport into a point of access for travellers to southern Spain  becoming part of the EUs Schengen Zone  have become entangled with debates over whether joint management of the airport, as suggested by the Spanish, could have a negative impact on UK military activity, since its airstrip is shared between the commercial airport and the RAF base.

All that is entangled with the question where exactly the border lies. Is the airport part of a neutral zone between British territory and Spanish, as some contest? But how can it be, others reply, since it is used by the RAF as a much valued base in the western Mediterranean?

Fundamentally, any agreement that appears in some way to share the airport with Spain can be seen as the thin end of the wedge, increasing Spanish influence in the tiny territory to the point where it finds itself to all intents and purposes re-integrated with the EU. Referenda have shown that the Gibraltarians overwhelmingly wish to remain British, despite being opposed to leaving the EU back in 2016. This puts it in a uniquely difficult position in the context of Brexit, which is why it may have implications far beyond the tip of the Peninsula.

For if Gibraltar were to cede some of the sovereignty of its airport, that would set a precedent. Other countries might look at other British Overseas Territories  such as the Falklands Islands  and request a similar relationship to that Spain has with Gibraltar. If ever agreed, that could mean Argentina sharing parts of British sovereign territory.

Closer to home, such an approach could once again see the EU have a say over British subjects  the beginning of a mission creep which might be used to try and influence our relationship with Brussels and, in the end, draw us closer.

In the end, if Spain is happy to co-exist in Iberia with Portugal and Andorra, it should put up with the fact that this tiny notch of Britishness is not part of Spain, just as Ceuta is not part of Morocco. Historical claims based on who ruled what hundreds of years ago have set off enough wars, including the current one in Ukraine. That terrible conflict also underlines why it would be so foolish to concede any of our military presence in Europe to anyone: the international context is simply too febrile and precarious. We need a firm grip on everywhere we have.

While no one is suggesting that Gibraltar will be invaded  even Franco did not manage that  its distinctive identity and its deep loyalty to Britain must not be allowed to be tampered with for any reason. Its significance far outweighs its size.

David Abulafia is Professor Emeritus of Mediterranean History at the University of Cambridge

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The European Commission is allegedly discussing the implementation of GPS trackers for Ukrainian hauliers entering Poland as part of additional control measures.

Source: RMF24 with reference to its sources, as reported by European Pravda

Details: According to sources, the European Commission is allegedly considering installing a GPS tracker in Ukrainian trucks in response to Polish protests in order to have a tool to control where drivers go next in Poland and whether it corresponds to the declared route.

It is reported that the European Commission has no plans to reinstate the permit regime for Ukrainian freight carriers, as demanded by Polish hauliers protesting at the border.

Previously:

On 5 March, the European Commission published a proposal to extend the agreement on road freight transportation with Ukraine, along with some changes to reassure European (primarily Polish) hauliers.

Possible changes are being worked on in the department of road transport policy, and a working group of the Council of the EU will be formed in the coming weeks.

Background: The agreement on the liberalisation of freight traffic between Ukraine and the EU was first signed in June 2022 and later extended until the end of June 2024. The same agreement was reached with Moldova.

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A cross-country skier is seen in the snow-covered landscape near Unteriberg

A cross-country skier is seen in the snow-covered landscape near Unteriberg

By Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Dave Graham

GENEVA/ZURICH (Reuters) - Switzerland for all its snow-capped mountains and crisp Alpine air has failed to protect its people from the ravages of climate change, as a top European court ruled this week.

Behind the picture postcard exterior, critics say, is a country that has done too little for the planet and acted as a business hub for some of the most powerful international corporations in fossil fuels and mining.

Political analysts and academics also say entrenched conservatism and a political system governed by popular referendums will complicate reform even after Tuesday's ruling by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

It found in favour of over 2,000 Swiss women - a third of them over 75 - who said their country's inaction in the face of rising temperatures puts them at risk of dying during heatwaves.

The ruling cannot be appealed and the Swiss Federal Office of Justice, which represented the government before the court, said it must be implemented. It said it would analyse the ruling to determine the measures the country needed to take.

Immediately after the court decision, the Swiss Green Party called for climate targets for specific industries, including the finanical sector.

"People may have slightly beautiful dreams about Switzerland," Lisa Mazzone, the party leader, said.

"Switzerland is the country of commodity trading, Switzerland is the country with a strong financial sector with a lot of investment in fossil fuels," she added.

Swiss-based commodity trading companies handle 40% of all oil trades and 60% of the metal trading business, according to data published by industry association Suissenegoce.

The group of Swiss women known as KlimaSeniorinnen did not make Swiss trading central to their case, although their Greenpeace-backed campaign that lasted many years called for tougher regulation to curb transactions fueling global warming.

REFERENDUMS

A 2022 international study into environmental sustainability ranked Switzerland in the top 10, but government efforts to implement stricter climate goals have so far been limited by the country's regular referendums.

Leading Swiss newspapers took a sceptical view of the ruling in editorials that said it could undermine democracy.

The largest party, the right-wing Swiss People's Party, said Switzerland should withdraw from the Council of Europe, which seeks to promote human rights in Europe and beyond, calling the court's judges "puppets for activists".

Unlike most western democracies where central governments drive political change, Switzerland is governed by a cross-party consensus balancing the interests of its 26 cantons.

Dilara Bayrak, a Green politician in Geneva, said the ruling should still energise climate debate in cantonal parliaments.

FINANCIAL MUSCLE AND TONS OF CARBON

The ruling is also likely to sharpen environmental campaigners' focus on how Switzerland's serves global industry through its network of traders and banks.

The financial sector, including the central bank, is already under pressure from environmental groups to curb the number of climate-damaging transactions it processes.

Data published last month by the Swiss National Bank (SNB) showed that its investments were linked to 12 million metric tons of carbon emissions in 2023.

Stakes in oil majors Chevron Corp and Exxon Mobil are part of its foreign reserves, which stood at 655 billion Swiss francs ($738.28 billion) at the end of 2023.

The SNB said it is reducing its own CO2 emissions, but would not change its investment policy. It declined to comment when asked whether the Strasbourg court ruling would lead to changes.

The actions the ruling say Switzerland must carry out include revising its 2030 emissions reductions targets to align them with the Paris Agreement's aim to limit warming to 1.5 Celsius (2.7 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.

It also determined that Switzerland had not complied with its own targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions and had failed to set a national carbon budget.

But the country's deep-rooted tradition of referendums is likely to make reform a slow process.

"It's not going to happen overnight," said Pascal Mahon, a professor of constitutional law at the University of Neuchatel.

"Switzerland is a country that respects international law rather well," he added. "Authorities will make sure to (respect) it, but by doing it through the Swiss political system, that's still relatively slow and conservative."

(Reporting by Dave Graham and John Revill in Zurich, Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Cecile Mantovani in Geneva; Editing by Barbara Lewis)
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, April 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi in Beijing on Friday.

Li said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties more than 40 years ago, bilateral relations have maintained sound and steady development, with fruitful cooperation in various fields.

China is ready to work with Suriname to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, carry forward the traditional friendship, deepen strategic mutual trust and promote practical cooperation, constantly enrich the connotation of the China-Suriname strategic cooperative partnership and bring more tangible benefits to the two peoples, he said.

China will, as always, support Suriname in safeguarding national sovereignty and independence, and following a development path suited to its national conditions, Li said, pointing out that China stands ready to work with Suriname to strengthen cooperation in traditional areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, forestry and fishery, expand cooperation in emerging areas such as digital economy, blue economy and green economy, and deepen cultural and tourism, education and training exchanges guided by the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

China is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Suriname in the United Nations and other multilateral mechanisms, actively implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, better respond to climate change and other global challenges, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Li said.

The Surinamese side thanks China for its strong support in fighting COVID-19 and promoting economic and social development, and appreciates China's active efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind by practicing multilateralism, Santokhi said.

Suriname firmly adheres to the one-China principle and supports China's efforts to promote national reunification, he said, expressing hopes of working with China to implement the global initiatives, stick to multilateralism, strengthen cooperation in agriculture, economy and trade, infrastructure construction, medical care, education, culture and tourism under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, deepen inter-party exchanges, and jointly tackle climate change. 

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, April 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)
In this photo provided by the Utah Division of Water Rights, crews use heavy machinery to place boulders downstream of the cracked Panguitch Lake Dam to reinforce the wall, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Panguitch, Utah. (Matt Call/Utah Division of Water Rights via AP)

SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  An evacuation notice was lifted Friday for the southern Utah town just downstream from a fissured dam after public safety officials said they were able to release enough water to prevent a total breach.

Nearly 1,800 residents of Panguitch, a gateway town to the crimson-colored hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park, had been on high alert in the days since inspectors discovered an unexpected 60-foot (18-meter) crack in the Panguitch Lake Dam on Monday night. Residents rushed to gather their valuables in case of an evacuation as safety crews emptied water into a creek and trucked in boulders to stabilize the wall.

As of Friday, water levels in the reservoir had dropped 8 inches (20 centimeters), alleviating enough pressure on the dam that state and local officials said they could confidently lift an evacuation notice urging residents to be ready to leave town within two hours of a breach. Panguitch sits about 10 miles (16 kilometers) downstream from the dam.

We want to release that anxiety, but we still want people to be ready to go, just kind of have a preparedness mindset," Wade Mathews, spokesperson for the Utah Department of Public Safety, said Friday.

Lowering the reservoir to below the affected area will take another seven to 10 days, he said. Safety crews will continue reducing the water level until it's 1 foot (0.3 meters) below the cracked section so inspectors can fully assess the damage.

Everett Taylor, an assistant engineer for dam safety with the Utah Division of Water Rights, urged residents to remain vigilant through the spring runoff season, as unforeseen circumstances might lead officials to reinstate the evacuation notice.

The fissure will not be repaired until the end of that runoff season, which is typically in June, Taylor said. Water levels in the spring are too high for construction crews to make major repairs, he explained, so all of the stabilizing elements put in place this week will remain until the early summer.

To repair the dam, we would have to undo everything we've done, and that would just create another emergency situation, Taylor said.

Over the last week, crews cut into an ice sheet that had pushed up against the dam, causing the top to crack and tilt downstream. The ice sheet has since pulled back, and the wall is no longer tilting, Taylor said. Safety workers left the necessary equipment on site so they can act immediately if high winds cause the ice to shift back up against the dam.

The dam was built in the late 1800s, but the top portion that cracked had been added in the 1930s and 1940s. State officials said there were no previous concerns regarding its structural integrity.

While the dam itself no longer poses a present danger to nearby communities, Matthews said, the controlled release from the reservoir has caused cold water to surge through the town's creeks and streams. The risk of drowning is especially high, he said, urging residents and visitors to avoid fast-flowing water.
As Donald Trump awaits trial over his handling of classified national security documents, his longtime attorney, Evan Corcoran, is leaving the former president's legal team. Citing multiple sources, CNN reported late Thursday that the departure is a significant blow to Trump, as Corcoran could be called as a key witness against him should the long-delayed trial go forward.

According to the indictment filed last year, Trump and associates conspired to hide boxes full of classified documents in Mar-a-Lago, his private club and residence in south Florida, and ignored demands to return them to the National Archives. Trump himself faces 40 felony charges, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

In the lead-up to the indictment, Corcoran appeared before an investigating grand jury to discuss his conversations with Trump after a district judge ruled that his personal notes and voice memos were not subject to attorney-client privilege.

Corcoran's notes were invaluable to prosecutors, providing a "road map" to build the case.

"These are contemporaneous renditions of what was going on," Catherine Ross, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University, told Salon at the time.

At trial, Trump's former attorney could be asked to discuss an attempted cover up. According to his own notes, when Corcoran found 38 classified documents at Mar-a-Lago and discussed his finding with Trump, the former president fretted over what to do with them. The two discussed storing them in a hotel room, with the former president allegedly making a "plucking motion" that Corcoran recorded as a directive to remove any especially incriminating documents from the pile.

Corcoran later recused himself from representing Trump in the case, though he continued to perform other legal work for the former president. If and when the trial begins after months of delay and logistical issues, Corcoran will likely have to stand as a witness for the prosecution, led by special counsel Jack Smith. Given his working relationship with the former president, that testimony could be extremely damaging.

Corcoran's depature follows the exit of other Trump lawyers, including Jim Trusty and John Rowley. That leaves the former president with a team of attorneys who are relative newcomers who did not interact with the Justice Department in the lead-up to Trump's indictment.
For a guy who fancies himself a tough alpha male  brimming with Im right and youre wrong! bluster like the cock of the walk  Donald Trump is, in reality, a giant chicken.

Trump's first criminal trial is set to start Monday in New York City. If you struggle to keep track of the mans multitudinous indictments, this is the one involving Stormy Daniels, the adult-film star hes accused of paying off in advance of the 2016 presidential election to keep quiet about their alleged affair.

He has referred to Daniels as Horseface and written on social media, She knows nothing about me, a total con! Last year, he referred to the case as the Stormy horseface Daniels extortion plot.

Trump has claimed  over and over and over again  that the case is part of a vast left-wing conspiracy against him, a Witch-Hunt to destroy the Make America Great Again movement and Political Persecution and Election Interference at the highest level in history.

Former President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after arriving in Atlanta for a campaign fundraising event on April 10, 2024. His criminal hush money trial in New York City is scheduled to begin April 15.

On eve of first criminal trial, Trump is all talk  as usual

In a statement in March 2023, Trump name-checked Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and boasted: So our Movement, and our Party  united and strong  will first defeat Alvin Bragg, and then we will defeat Joe Biden.

Youd think an abundantly confident macho man like Trump would be champing at the bit to get into a courtroom with his lawyers and prove the Thugs and Radical Left Monsters wrong, to pull back the curtain on this unjust persecution/prosecution, to shove the evidence of his angelic innocence right in their smug faces.

Youd think. But Trump has been doing the opposite, trying everything possible to delay the trial. His lawyers filed three futile appeals just this week, all of which were shot down.

Hes grousing that he cant get a fair trial in Manhattan, that the judge slapped him with an unconstitutional gag order and that the judge has a conflict of interest because his daughter is a Democratic political consultant.

Trump's abortion problem: Florida Supreme Court puts abortion on the ballot  and hands former president a serious problem

At this rate I expect hell show up to court Monday in a WHAAAAAAAAmbulance then get carried in on a stretcher, moaning about how the deep state gave him typhoid fever.

Donald Trump claims to be tough, but his fear of the Stormy Daniels trial says otherwise

These are not the actions of a bold, confident man who knows hes innocent and will fight to prove the naysayers wrong.

Thats probably because Trump is not a bold, confident man who knows hes innocent, and he doesnt know how to fight. He just slings mud and runs away hollering: I have never slung any mud! That is FAKE NEWS!

Republicans hate themselves: Nobody hates the GOP as much as Republicans hate the GOP. Just ask Marjorie Taylor Greene.

As with every self-assigned description of Trump  a great president, a brilliant businessman, a tough guy  its all a mirage. Its ineptitude, lunkheadedness and cowardice cloaked by flimsy branding.

Trump as a fighter? LOL! The man never fights, he just runs away.

Rioters at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

When he lost the 2020 presidential election, his narcissism wouldnt allow him to accept the results. So it became Vice President Mike Pences fault. It became a rigged election. And did Trump himself march into the halls of Congress to stop the transfer of power, bravely buoyed by facts he believed were in his favor?

Nope. He dispatched the most gullible of his supporters, let them mob the U.S. Capitol and let them get locked up. If he loses again in November, hell do the same thing  talk a good fight, then send in the rubes.

When the trial starts Monday, Trump will finally face accountability

On Monday, barring a legal miracle, the man who thinks so highly of himself that he autographs Bibles will step into a courtroom and become the first former U.S. president to face a jury of his peers in a criminal trial.

He is terrified of that moment. The narcissism at his core has never met accountability. If he had a lick of confidence, he wouldnt be paying attorneys  probably with GOP donor money, not his own  to pull every whack-a-doodle legal trick they can muster to delay, delay, delay.

He wouldnt be spending hours online and at rallies griping and whining and woe-is-me-ing.

Hed be ready, self-assured and eager to clear his name. Hed be tough.

Hes not.

Trump is a chicken. A frightened, clucking chicken who, as of Monday, will have no room left to run.

Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on X, formerly Twitter, @RexHuppke and Facebook facebook.com/RexIsAJerk

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Opinion: Trump, a frightened, clucking chicken, fails to delay hush money trial
In Kyiv's Independence Square, Ukrainian service members carry the coffins of two soldiers killed in the war against invading Russian forces. (Oleksii Chumachenko / Getty Images)

Could Ukraine lose this war?

For more than two years, as this country of 44 million people has fought off an all-out invasion by neighboring Russia, a spirit of stubborn optimism prevailed even amid the most frightening moments. Any notion of defeat was unthinkable, an almost taboo topic.

But now the question hovers, flitting in and out of view: What if?

The stalling of crucial American aid, a distinct dimming of the world spotlight, and simple war weariness are all exacting a heavy cost. On the front lines, exhausted Ukrainian troops are rationing ammunition as they fend off the latest Russian advances, and anxiety is mounting along with the military and civilian toll.

Every day, were dying, said Marta Tomakhiv, 33, standing in a sharp-edged shadow in Kyivs main Independence Square last week, mourning a friend from her western Ukrainian hometown who was killed in battle days earlier in the east.

A Ukrainian serviceman with howitzer weaponry in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine on April 11, 2024. (Alex Babenko / Associated Press)

By and large, Ukrainians still believe they can hold out against a resurgent and powerful foe  if for no other reason, as nearly everyone here points out, than that they are in a fight for their lives.

"There's absolutely no choice  we know very well what they would do to us if they could," Artem Morhun, a 30-year-old lawyer on his way to work in downtown Kyiv, said of the invading Russian forces.

Few Ukrainians have forgotten the brutal atrocities perpetrated by occupying Russian troops in Kyiv's once-placid suburbs early in the war, or the wholesale destruction and massacres in still-captive cities such as Mariupol, in the country's southeast.

Read more: Will the people of Bucha, Ukraine, find justice?

After months of military setbacks, however, many here wonder whether the long front lines that arc across Ukraine's south and east can hold, or even whether Russian troops could seize a major city.

Without a rapid infusion of aid, "it will be much harder for us to fight," said Andriy Borovyk, 38, who was having a coffee outdoors with a friend in the city center. "I think we could lose some territories, definitely."

Like many others here, he likened the attitude of some of Ukraine's allies to that of European leaders before World War II, as Adolf Hitler was coming to power.

"I think that Westerners are in a warm bath, as we say in Ukraine  like in 1939, they think it will never affect them," said Borovyk, who works for an anti-corruption nongovernmental organization. "But it will. History has a cycle."

Read more: In war-torn Ukraine, a woman searches for her husband. Will she find him?

A metropolis the size of Chicago, Kyiv looks much like any sophisticated European capital: stately architecture, craft breweries, ubiquitous electric scooters, colorful springtime blooms in spacious, well-tended parks. But beneath the bustle runs an undercurrent of dread.

Although Kyiv lies hundreds of miles from the battle zone, wars hallmarks are in plain view: a sea of fluttering blue-and-yellow flags commemorating fallen soldiers, QR codes plastered on posters for crowdfunding efforts to buy drones or other supplies for field units, men and women in camouflage uniforms kissing loved ones goodbye at train stations.

Read more: Sleepless in Kyiv: In Ukraine's capital, the stress of war weighs on everyone. How do people cope?

Even an open-air display of wrecked, rusting Russian military vehicles  installed early in the war as a morale booster in a square outside a landmark Kyiv monastery  is more likely these days to inspire a frisson of foreboding than a spurt of national pride.

People view captured Russian equipment, including tanks, in front of St. Michael's monastery in Kyiv, Ukraine. (Pete Kiehart / For The Times)

A sea of flags, each representing a fallen Ukrainian soldier, is displayed on Independence Square in Kyiv. (Pete Kiehart / For The Times)

In the war's heady early months, after Russian forces menaced Kyiv but then were forced to pull back, people flocked to the square to take selfies, and children played tag among the hulking wrecks. The display has been a frequent backdrop for visiting foreign dignitaries, including President Biden, who strolled the square last year.

For Marina Kozulina, a 50-something Kyiv woman walking her little black dog near a half-ruined tank, the military detritus in the square has become more a reminder of peril than triumph.

Read more: Biden makes surprise Ukraine visit, pledging more U.S. aid as wars anniversary nears

"Seeing this makes me nervous, to think about how close the Russians were to Kyiv, and if they could be again," she said. "I want us to win, but it's very difficult."

Even President Volodymyr Zelensky, the former comedian who has tirelessly rallied compatriots since the invasion of Feb. 24, 2022, is taking an increasingly grim tone as cities across the country are pummeled nightly by relentless Russian drone and missile attacks.

Zelensky, in an interview this week with "PBS NewsHour," alluded despairingly to the recent destruction of a crucial power plant outside Kyiv, saying Russias strike succeeded because we have run out of all the missiles that had protected it.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky inspects the fortification lines in the Kharkiv region on April 9, 2024. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office )

More gloomy news from the battle zone came this month, as the head of Ukraines military warned that conditions in the countrys east had significantly worsened.

Writing on the messaging app Telegram, the military chief, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, said warmer spring temperatures were drying up previously muddy terrain, allowing Russian forces to step up their assaults with tanks and other armored vehicles.

With vast swaths of Ukrainian territory ever more vulnerable, its government has been careful to not grumble publicly over the display of aerial prowess shown by Israel and its allies, including the U.S., in thwarting a massive weekend Iranian missile and drone attack on Israel.

But on Monday, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba allowed himself a bit of wistful musing about what support from partners could achieve.

Give us what we need, and we will do the rest of the job, he said.

Until recently, explicit talk of potential military defeat was considered largely out of bounds for Ukrainian officials, because they did not want to appear to be seeking expensive Western backing to wage what could ultimately prove a fruitless struggle.

But Zelensky did not mince words in a video meeting this month with a Ukrainian aid group: It is necessary to specifically tell Congress that if Congress does not help Ukraine, Ukraine will lose the war, he said.

Many Ukrainians have an extremely detailed grasp of U.S. election-year politics, and any visiting American is asked again and again: When is more help coming?

Were grateful  more than grateful, said Anastasia Shevchuk, 16, who was out shopping downtown with friends. But everyone understands that if Russia wins here, its a big, big threat to all of Europe, and the rest of the world as well.

Read more: Ukrainians are grateful for U.S. military aid. But some ask whether they deserve thanks too

Attention here is heavily focused on the $60-billion U.S. aid package that has been blocked for months by congressional Republicans. It may yet be put to a vote this month, but is still in danger of being derailed by internecine fighting in the GOP.

"Voting on this aid, it's a matter of life and death  we depend on our partners, especially the U.S.," said Bohdan Krylyvenko, 38, sitting in the sunshine outside a fast-food restaurant. "You might think, 'Oh, McDonald's is open, everything looks OK.' But it's totally not OK."

Across the country, near-nightly Russian attacks exact a growing toll. The United Nations' human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine said at least 604 Ukrainian civilians were killed or injured in such strikes  hitting apartment blocks and shops, churches and cultural sites  in March.

"The situation in Ukraine is dire; there is not a moment to lose," the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, wrote Thursday on the social media platform X as missile barrages struck several parts of the country.

In a conflict marked by dramatic ups and downs over the last two years  initial fears that Ukraine would be swiftly subdued, an inspirational underdog narrative as the country successfully defended itself, stunning Ukrainian counteroffensives in the country's south and east in 2022  recent months, by contrast, have brought a drumbeat of bad news.

Last years much-vaunted summer counteroffensive foundered amid muted but pointed mutual recrimination between Ukrainian officials and American backers over battle tactics. The eastern town of Avdiivka fell to Russian forces in February, the first such Ukrainian loss in nine months, a defeat perhaps even more stinging symbolically than tactically.

An apartment in a nine-story building damaged by Russian shelling on April 9, 2024, in Selydove, in eastern Ukraine. (Oleksandr Buriak / Getty Images)

Manpower shortages in the ranks of a professional army bolstered at the war's outbreak by citizen soldiers  teachers, accountants and mechanics who rushed to volunteer  have forced an unpopular measure to lower the military mobilization age from 27 to 25. And in the battle zone, artillery stocks have dwindled alarmingly, the senior U.S. commander in Europe warned Congress last week.

Read more: After an artist's studio was damaged in a Russian missile strike, he found a new medium: war debris

Testifying before the House Armed Services Committee, Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli said that within weeks, Ukrainian forces will be vastly outgunned if more armaments are not rushed in.

They are now being outshot by the Russian side 5 to 1," Cavoli said of Ukrainian troops. "The Russians fire five times as many artillery shells at the Ukrainians than the Ukrainians are able to fire back. That will immediately go to 10 to 1 in a matter of weeks.

The general added: Were not talking about months. Were not talking hypothetically.

The Ukrainian side can claim successes as well, some of which its leaders believe have gone unfairly unheralded. Those include stepped-up domestic production of much-needed drones, and securing a shipping lane for grain exports as Ukraine  a country without a formal navy  has sunk or disabled one-third of all Russian warships in the Black Sea with missile and drone attacks.

Ukraine has also harried Moscow with strikes aimed mainly at Russian energy installations  mirroring, though at a far smaller scale, the destructive Russian attacks aimed at Ukraines power grid. But some Ukrainian officials have grumbled that they are not allowed to use Western-supplied weaponry beyond the country's borders.

Military analysts say the drop-off in aid not only contributes to battlefield hardship now, but also makes it difficult for Ukraine to make plans to try to recapture military momentum.

Its a dual challenge  to stabilize the current front line, and put in place significant defenses so the Russian advances this year are blunted, said Matthew Savill, the director of military sciences at the Royal United Services Institute, a British defense and security think tank.

Because of the immediate and short-term difficulties, a major Ukrainian counteroffensive this year is a near-impossibility, he said.

In the meantime, European allies are seeking to break the U.S. congressional logjam. British Foreign Secretary David Cameron met this month with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, describing the blocked assistance as not only pivotal for Ukraine, but also profoundly in your interest  that of the United States.

In a telling bit of realpolitik, however, the British foreign secretary also made the trek to Florida for a meeting with former President Trump, who, as he seeks a second term, has played a key role in dissuading his congressional allies from endorsing the aid. After the meeting, Cameron made no claim of progress.

Read more: In Ukraine, a harvest of death as bodies of the fallen are returned to their hometowns

In every corner of Ukraine, the fallen return home daily.

In Kyiv, two wooden caskets bearing soldiers' bodies were brought to Independence Square  the heart of Ukraine's 2014 pro-democracy protests  in a solemn parade, with mourners kneeling at their passing.

People pay their respects to two Ukrainian servicemen killed in a battle with Russian troops during the funeral ceremony in Independence Square in Kyiv on April 9, 2024. (Efrem Lukatsky / Associated Press)

Looking on was a 36-year-old lieutenant colonel named Bohdan, a friend of one of the dead soldiers. He described his feelings when his own 2-year-old son, no stranger to air alerts, asked him when the missiles would come again.

When he grows up, I dont want him to have to fight this kind of war, but without the worlds help, maybe he will have to, said the officer, who, in keeping with military policy, did not want his full name used.

He watched bleakly as the coffins were carried to the foot of a towering monument to Ukraine's 1991 independence.

Many people, the best people of our nation, will die," he continued. "But we will fight. We have no choice.





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I do everything with her in mind: Military teen whose mom died in bombing receives honor

Noelani Martinez was just 9 years old when she was seriously hurt in a terrorist attack at the Brussels airport in 2016.

Her dad and three siblings were also seriously injured in the bombing. Tragically, her mother Gail was killed in the attack.

There is still that large hole and gap in our hearts from where our mom would be, Martinez told our Washington News Bureau. I do everything with her in mind thinking what would make her proud? What would make her happy?

Martinez is being honored by the nonprofit group Operation Homefront as the Military Child of the Year for the Air Force.

Martinezs dad retired from the Air Force in 2021. Col. Melchizedek Martinez is a Purple Heart recipient who served for 29 years.

There are seven recipients in total for the Military Child of the Year awards one from each branch of the military and the National Guard.

For us, its very surreal. Its still hard for us to grasp how big of a deal it is, said Martinez about being honored.

Martinez says the loss of her mother and the injuries to her family has had a major impact on her life.

I was diagnosed with depression a few years after the incident and it was only then I realized how much it impacted me, said Martinez.

But even in the face of tremendous tragedy, Martinez has persevered. She is now a junior in high school in San Antonio, Texas.

Martinez aspires to one day become a composer. She says she got her musical talent from her mother, who she described as having had a beautiful voice.

Martinez has followed in her moms footsteps: now playing the drums and signing up for ROTC.

The teen said shes hoping events like this one honoring military kids can shed light on the challenges unique to kids growing up in a military family. They face frequent moves, leading them to often uproot their lives and start all over.

As military kids, we seek to give back to our community hopefully in a similar way our parents are doing and making an impact the same way they are, said Martinez. I think many people who are outside the military need to learn how to be that support pillar for that child.

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(Bloomberg) -- Former President Rodrigo Duterte accused the US of inflaming tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea, while criticizing his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of supposedly doing Americas bidding.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Americans are the ones pushing the Philippine government to go out there and find a quarrel and eventually maybe start a war, Duterte was quoted as saying in an interview with Communist Party-run Global Times published Friday. But I do not think that America will die for us.

The former president  who brought Philippines closer to China during his term as part his independent foreign policy  said that discussions between Beijing and Manila on the sea dispute wont prosper under Marcos. You cannot talk to him because it is the Americans that will tell him what he should say to you, Duterte said, offering to negotiate with China to ease tensions.

Dutertes interview with Global Times came out as the Philippines forged closer ties with the US and Japan in the first trilateral summit among the nations hosted by President Joe Biden. Under Marcos, the Philippines has adopted a more assertive stance in the South China Sea where clashes against Chinese vessels have been increasing in the past year.

The former leader also signaled hes open to speaking out publicly more often to advocate for China and indicated that should he regain a position of influence, he would undo Marcoss decision to give Americans more access to its military bases.

Earlier this week, Marcos said he was horrified to learn that Duterte supposedly struck a gentlemans agreement with China that restricts Manila from sending repair materials to a crumbling warship serving as its military outpost in the Second Thomas Shoal.

Marcoss communications office has yet to comment on Dutertes latest remarks. The US Embassy in Manila, meanwhile, reiterated that Americas commitment to its alliance with the Philippines is ironclad.

Marcos has denied that his government is just following US orders, and also said in a Bloomberg News interview last month that hes not provoking China.

The former presidents comments also show a deepening rift with the incumbent that risks further splitting the ruling alliance, sparked by differences in foreign policy and domestic issues like Marcoss push to amend the Constitution.

Dutertes daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, has largely refrained from commenting on the South China Sea dispute.

--With assistance from Jing Li.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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The ships, which will operate in Ukraine under the names Chernihiv and Cherkasy, in Portsmouth - Royal Navy/SWNS

Two former Royal Navy minehunter ships handed over to the Ukrainian navy have arrived in Portsmouth as the crews undergo training to prepare them for missions in the Black Sea.

The Sandown-class warships, HMS Grimsby and HMS Shoreham, were decommissioned from the Royal Navy to be transferred to the Ukrainian military, where they will operate under the names Chernihiv and Cherkasy.

The ships, which each served more than 20 years in the Royal Navy, arrived at Portsmouth Naval Base having sailed from Scotland.

They will remain based in Portsmouth while crew members undergo training to prepare them to hunt for mines in the Black Sea.

A Ukrainian sailor undergoes training on Cherkasy in Portsmouth - Royal Navy/SWNS

A Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesman said: The ships are currently not able to enter the Black Sea due to the terms of the Montreux Convention, which restricts passage of military vessels through the Bosporus Strait at times of war.

However, they will form a critical capability for Ukraine in its future defence of its coastlines as the UK looks to support the longer-term capabilities of the Ukrainian navy, while they look to protect commercial shipping by detecting and disabling sea mines.

Eduard Fesko, the charge daffaires of Ukraine, said that the minehunters would be essential in reopening trade routes once the war is over.

He added: They will continue the training here, from this base, and given that the minesweepers will be very, very important in the post-war period in cleaning up the Black Sea, I think its very important that we have these ships here.

Once the war is over and the Black Sea will start to be cleaned up, it will be not only the undertaking of Ukraine, Im sure other countries will also participate in these efforts but there will be none that will be more interested in making sure that the trade routes are safe as Ukraine because trade is the bloodline for our economy at the moment.

The minehunters are regarded as essential for reopening trade routes once the war is over - Royal Navy/SWNS

Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, said: The UK is leading the way in helping Ukraine to modernise its Navy. The transfer of these ships and the excellent training provided by the Royal Navy will have a real long-term impact on Ukraines ability to defend its waters.

We continue to support Ukraine as they deliver major blows to Putins Black Sea fleet.

In doing so, they are securing vital corridors to export grain and other materials, supporting their economy in the face of Russias barbaric bombardment.

Cherkasy arrives in Portsmouth in preparation for missions in the Black Sea - LPhot Ollie Leach/MoD Crown Copyright/PA

The transfer of the vessels to Ukraines navy was announced to coincide with the launch of the Maritime Capability Coalition, which the UK jointly leads with Norway, to provide assistance to Ukraines navy  including training, equipment and infrastructure  and to increase security in the Black Sea region.

The MoD spokesman said that Ukraine has sunk or disabled around a third of Russias Black Sea Fleet since the start of the conflict through precision-guided missile strikes and innovative use of maritime one-way attack drones.

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Victor Manuel Rocha, a former U.S. ambassador who had lived a double life for decades as a covert agent of Cuba, was sentenced Friday to 15 years in prison by a federal judge in Miami in a stunning case highlighting the communist nations long-term success in stealing intelligence secrets from the U.S. government.

Miami U.S. District Court Judge Beth Bloom called Rocha an enemy of the United States government during the hearing.

Your actions were a direct attack on our democracy and the safety of our citizens, she said. You turned your back on this country, a country that gave you everything.

Speaking before he was sentenced, Rocha apologized to the judge, the United States and his family for his actions.

As a student, I was heavily influenced by the radical politics of the day, he said, which led to his betrayal of the United States. Today, I no longer see the world through the radical eyes of my youth.

At 73, he would likely spend the rest of his life behind bars.

Rocha pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the U.S. government and acting as an illegal foreign agent in an agreement struck with the U.S. Attorneys Office in Miami. Those two offenses carried maximum sentences of five and 10 years, respectively. According to his plea agreement, he is cooperating with the U.S. government on investigations about Cuba, including a Justice Department assessment of the damage caused by his own covert work for the late Fidel Castros regime and his successors.

However, Judge Bloom, during the hearing, made clear she didnt think the initial agreement presented by the prosecutors was enough punishment for what she called Rochas betrayal of the United States.

She did not hide her displeasure with the governments plea deal, briefly suspending the hearing three times to get clarification on why prosecutors were not seeking forfeiture of Rochas properties, as the indictment initially suggested, as well as restitution for his victims. After being charged in December, Rocha transferred the deeds on four luxury Brickell City Centre condos valued at more than $4 million that he bought with his wife, Karla Wittkop Rocha, exclusively to her.

He also transferred his two bank accounts to his wife, prosecutors said Friday.

The judge said she was concerned about restitution to other victims of Rochas actions beyond the U.S. government, citing the four Cuban American men who died in the Brothers to the Rescue shootdown in 1996.

Bloom also questioned why the Justice Department was not proposing that Rocha be denaturalized as a U.S. citizen after he completed his prison sentence. Initially, the federal prosecutors Jonathan Stratton and John Shipley told Bloom they were not going to request that Rocha, who was born in Colombia and naturalized in 1978, be stripped of his U.S. citizenship, which would mean he would be deported after serving his sentence if he were still alive.

But after the tense exchanges, the judge decided on a new hearing to consider restitution in the future and ordered prosecutors to include the possibility of stripping him of his citizenship in his plea agreement. Rocha and his defense lawyer, Jacqueline Arango, agreed with the judges demands.

As part of his sentencing, the judge also fined Rocha $500,000. His federal pension was also suspended.

Rocha was not formally accused of being a spy  a crime that would have required time-sensitive evidence, such as catching him exchanging damaging top-secret information with his Cuban handlers or other evidence of furtive communications. Instead, he was accused of violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, which requires those working under the control of a foreign government to notify the U.S. Attorney Generals office.

Nonetheless, top federal officials have characterized Rocha, who retired from the State Department in 2002 and later worked as an adviser to the commander of U.S. Southern Command and in the private sector, as one of the worst offenders in the annals of foreign spying on the U.S. government.

After his arrest in early December, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said Rochas covert work for Cuba was one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent.

Cubas agents inside the U.S. government

Rocha, who climbed the foreign service ladder to become the ambassador to Bolivia in 2000 during the George W. Bush administration, was arrested after the FBI launched a sting operation in late 2022. He was video-recorded telling an undercover FBI agent that he worked for the Cuban intelligence services for four decades, according to a criminal affidavit and indictment. He told the FBI agent his last contact with Cuban intelligence was around 2017 during a secret trip to the island.

Rochas prosecution in Miami is the latest in a string of cases that have shown over the years Cuban intelligence services sophisticated capabilities to spy on the United States and run agents inside federal agencies.

Other high-profile Cuban spies arrested include Ana Belen Montes, the analyst who spied for Cuba during her 17 years at the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency, and Walter Kendall Myers, a former State Department official, who, along with his wife, Gwendolyn Myers, worked for Cuba for nearly 30 years and passed its intelligence services highly classified U.S. national defense information.

But unlike Rocha, they were accused of conspiring to commit espionage because the FBI retrieved proof of their communications with the Cuban intelligence services via shortwave radio. The Myers also shared incriminating information with an undercover FBI source about their code names, the ways they passed information to their Cuban handlers and the type of top-secret information they stole.

Still, Rochas 15-year sentence is quite impressive, said Peter Lapp, a former FBI special agent who arrested Montes. Montes was 46 when she was condemned to 25 years in prison in 2002. She was released in January last year.

Though time will tell, 15 years is likely a life sentence, and the FBI and the intelligence community will now learn key details from his treachery, said Lapp, who wrote the details of how the FBI managed to catch Montes in his book, Queen of Cuba: The Inside Story on How the Perfect Spy Evaded Detection for 17 Years.

I see this as a huge win for the FBI, the Department of Justice and the intelligence community, he said. I think that Cuban-Americans should view this as I do: justice served.

Key questions remain

Rochas sentencing will not provide closure to a case that has shocked former friends and colleagues and the U.S. intelligence community. After Fridays sentencing, difficult questions still remain: How much damage did he do? What secrets did he pass to Cuba? Why was he able to do Cubas bidding for so long undetected? And what steps can federal agencies take to counter Cuban intelligence efforts to plant spies at the center of the U.S. government?

These are questions likely to be asked by government investigators tasked to carry out a damage assessment of Rochas actions. But their task will be difficult because much of what he did is now history.

Rochas career spanned more than 40 years, half that time in the foreign service in positions where he was able to influence U.S. policy toward Cuba and access top-secret U.S. government information.

He rose through the State Department ranks, worked at the White Houses National Security Councils Office of Inter American Affairs between July 1994 and July 1995, and held several positions in Latin American embassies in places like Mexico City, Honduras and Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic capital, that would have been of interest for Cuban intelligence services.

He also spent two years as number two in the U.S. diplomatic mission in Havana between July 1995 and July 1997, during a convulsed period in U.S.-Cuba relations marked by the signing of the migration accords after the Balseros crisis, the shootdown of the Brothers to the Rescue planes and the passing of the Libertad Act, also known as Helms-Burton.

Even when he was in the private sector, he would try to help the Cuban government. As the Miami Herald previously reported, around 2007, he was behind efforts to buy claims on properties confiscated by the Cuban government. Those properties lie at the heart of the U.S. embargo on the island and resolving those claims would have put the two countries on the verge of fully normalizing relations.

According to his indictment, government prosecutors believe Rocha was recruited by Cubas General Directorate of Intelligence (known as DGI in Spanish) around 1973 in Chile, the same year socialist Chilean President Salvador Allende was ousted in a violent coup, and Rocha graduated from Yale.

Though the document shares little about the recruitment itself, it fits with the Cuban intelligence services model of identifying young people sympathetic to Cuba because of ideological reasons.

It is unclear how the FBI learned that Rocha was a Cuban mole. But the indictment shows the agency had two pieces of information that helped its undercover agent gain Rochas trust as supposedly an agent sent from Havana to contact him: that his name was Miguel and that Rocha had been a great friend of Cuban intelligence since his time in Chile.

Miguel was able to approach Rocha through a WhatsApp text, saying, I have a message for you from your friends in Havana. The undercover employee then asked him if he would be willing to talk by phone, and Rocha responded, I dont understand, but you can call me.

In the phone conversation, the undercover employee talked about Rochas past relationship with Cuba and how he could be helpful with a problem at the Cuban embassy in the Dominican Republic. Rocha agreed to meet with him during a series of video-recorded meetings in Miami over the past year in which the former diplomat repeatedly admitted his decades of work for Cuba that spanned 40 years.

Intelligence sources told the Herald that it was possible that a new Cuban defector came out to provide the information or that U.S. intelligence agencies intercepted communications pointing to Rocha as a possible Cuban agent. A third possibility, the sources said, was that U.S. agencies connected old information with a new lead to conclude Rocha had been working covertly for the Cuban government.

Rochas charges

Rocha faced charges of conspiracy, acting as an unregistered foreign agent, wire fraud, and making false statements to obtain and use a U.S. passport, according to the 15-count indictment. All but two of the counts in his indictment were dismissed as part of his plea agreement, which was initially disclosed in late February before Judge Bloom.

Since his arrest, Rocha has remained at the federal detention center in Miami after agreeing to prosecutors demands that he be held before trial. Prosecutors argued he was a danger to the community and a flight risk.

Rocha was accused of conspiring as an agent for Cuba since 1981, when he started working for the State Department, three years after he naturalized as a U.S. citizen and had earned degrees from Yale, Harvard and Georgetown universities.

He was accused of obtaining sensitive U.S. government secrets and providing them to Cuban agents, according to an indictment. The indictment, which expanded upon a criminal complaint unsealed in early December, further accused Rocha of using access to [classified] information for the benefit of Cuba and disclosing such information without authorization.

But neither document cites any particular overt act accusing him of handing over classified materials to his Cuban intelligence handlers.

At Fridays hearing, Bloom, the judge, questioned prosecutors about when the U.S. government became aware of Rochas covert work as a Cuban agent, as she tried to assess his damage to potential victims.

But they would not tell her  and it wasnt clear from their response if they even knew.

Your honor, that is not a public record, said Stratton, the prosecutor. Its classified information.

After the nearly four-hour court hearing, U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe and other senior law enforcement officials commented about the case at a news conference, focusing on the impact of Rochas betrayal on South Floridas Cuban exile community.

I am mindful that Rochas decades-long criminal activity on behalf of the Cuban Government is especially painful for many in South Florida, Lapointe said. Rochas willingness to cooperate, as required by his plea agreement, is important, but does not change the seriousness of his misconduct or his clandestine breach of the trust placed in him. 
MERIDIAN TWP., Mich. (WLNS)  Meridian Township Clerk Deborah Guthries name will not appear on the August primary ballot, but shes launched a write-in campaign to be re-elected to the post.

Guthrie was disqualified from appearing on the August primary ballot Monday by her own election supervisor and deputy township clerk for filing paperwork for office that was not accurate. Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum accepted that disqualification.

But Byrum also acknowledged that Michigan Secretary of State Bureau of Elections guidance on disqualifications from the ballot allows candidates to file to run write-in campaigns.

Meridian Township Clerk Deborah Guthrie (WLNS)

Because, according to being disqualified, my name cannot appear on the ballot but I can run as a write-in candidate in the August primary, Guthrie tells 6 News exclusively. So, that is the only way my name can appear on the ballot is if voters write my name into the write-in section. So thats what Im hoping to do.

Guthrie acknowledges conducting a write-in campaign is a laborious project. The candidate and volunteers have to get voters to either write the candidates name on the ballot or affix a sticker with the candidates name on the ballot. That requires dramatic outreach and contact with voters.

In addition, in a partisan primary election  which Guthrie will be participating in  there are minimum numbers of votes that have to be obtained for the write-in candidacy to be successful.

Guthrie is a Democrat and will be participating in the Democratic primary for Clerk. The township residents elect a clerk every four years and that person serves as one of two full-time elected positions in the township. The other elected full-time position is that of treasurer.

Guthrie makes about $80,000 a year plus benefits. As Clerk, she is responsible for overseeing all election activity in the township as well as maintaining the townships records.

As 6 News reported Tuesday, Byrum says Guthrie, in filing for re-election to the four-year term as township clerk, had filed an Affidavit of Identity that was not accurate.

Guthrie Byrum Communications 1Download

Guthrie Byrum Communications 2Download

Affidavits of Identity are filed by every person seeking an elective office in Michigan. The documents attest to compliance with the Michigan Campaign Finance Act, including having filed all necessary reports and paid any fees or fines.

The affidavit also certifies the individual is a citizen of the United States and constitutionally qualified for the office sought. Each affidavit is signed under the threat of a felony perjury charge.

Documents provided by Byrum show Guthrie owed fees related to campaign finance reporting requirements to the tune of $175 as of Feb. 5, 2024. As of March 14, 2024, Guthries campaign fines and fees were not in compliance with the Michigan Campaign Finance Act.

It is my opinion, as well as the Bureau of Elections guidance, that this candidate should be disqualified as a result of the unpaid late filing fees and the false statement on the Affidavit of Identity, Byrum wrote in a March 14, 2024 letter to Guthrie. There is no remedy for this error.

The key issue is the following certification she signed, I certify that at this date, all statements, reports, late filing fees, and fines due from me or any candidate committee organized to support my election under the Michigan Campaign Finance Act have been filed or paid.

Guthrie tells 6 News she misunderstood a clause in the affidavit. She argues the use of the words or paid, separated the payment of fines and fees from reports. Instead, she says the word or is supposed to be read as an and.

Documents obtained by 6 News show Meridian Township paid Township lawyers over $5,000 to review the clerks determination and advise Deputy Clerk and Elections Supervisor Emily Gordon on what steps to take regarding the potential disqualification.

Gordon notified Byrum on Monday that she was acting to disqualify Guthrie based in part on legal advice from township attorneys.

Guthrie, who was first elected to the office in November of 2020 after beating the incumbent clerk in the Democratic primary, also spent more than 8 years as Meridian Townships Communication Director between 2011 and 2019, according to her LinkedIn page.

Ingham County records show that as of April 11, no one else has filed as a candidate for the job. The filing deadline is April 23 at 4 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
By Allison Lampert

(Reuters) -Boeing's key supplier Spirit AeroSystems is limiting overtime and hiring as production declines due to lower output of 737 MAX jets, Spirit told Reuters on Friday.

Boeing's MAX jetliner production has fallen sharply in recent weeks as U.S. regulators step up factory checks and workers slow the assembly line outside Seattle to complete outstanding work. Boeing's deliveries dropped by half in March from a year ago as it deals with a sprawling crisis triggered by the Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines midair panel blowout.

The slowdown is spilling over to Spirit, the struggling industry supplier Boeing spun off in 2005, which makes about 70% of the 737. Boeing is now in talks to acquire the company.

"When I walk the shop floors things have slowed down," said Cornell Beard, president of the Wichita, Kansas, union district which represents Spirit Aero workers.

Beard said employees are expected to raise concerns about potential layoffs at an internal union gathering on Saturday, adding the company cut overtime last week. While Spirit has not announced layoffs, some employees are nervous and are catching up on work they were behind on due to slower assembly demands.

"We're just hanging on," he said.

Spirit has a requirements contract with Boeing for the 737 MAX program and the U.S. planemaker can reduce the purchase volume at any time, according to a filing.

Spirit AeroSystems is "aligning our production to support our customer's rate profile," spokesperson Joe Buccino told Reuters by email. That includes in the near-term "limiting overtime as well as hiring for specific roles, including contractors."

Analysts and Reuters interviews with suppliers show Boeing is largely continuing to take deliveries equivalent to a production rate of 38 jets a month, the cap imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following the blowout, even though its monthly output is well below that level.

While the decline in Boeing's MAX output has raised uncertainty and concern among suppliers, it is not yet clear how the move will affect the planemaker's broader supply chain.

Boeing said it cannot comment due to the quiet period ahead of its April 24 quarterly earnings.

AeroDynamic supply chain advisor Glenn McDonald said Boeing's goal to reduce so-called traveled or pending work should make output more stable in the future.

"The big unknown is how long the supplier rate will stay at 38 if Boeing is not able to fix their issues on the production line and increase the actual delivery rate," he said.

Story continues

Spirit has not reported an annual profit since 2020 following two fatal 737 MAX crashes and the pandemic-induced slump in travel that hit other Boeing suppliers.

(Reporting By Allison Lampert in Montreal; Editing by Josie Kao)
Aerial photo taken on July 13, 2020 shows an expedition vessel in the South China Sea. (Xinhua/Zhang Liyun)

The United States, by forming exclusive cliques with its allies in the region, is also sabotaging the efforts and commitment of China and ASEAN to properly manage and resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation between the states directly involved.

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Though hyped as a forum for fostering "peace and security" in the Asia-Pacific region, the just concluded U.S.-Japan-Philippines summit on Thursday actually served as a sharp reminder of Washington's divisive policy of inciting conflict and strife in Asia.

The trilateral summit, the first of its kind, followed a four-way military drill with Australia in the South China Sea. During the summit on Thursday, the three countries also announced joint patrols later this year near the South China Sea.

Washington has a long history of leveraging its military and economic power to sway the policies and decisions of its allies, including the Philippines.

Since Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. took office as president of the Philippines, Manila, incited by Washington, has adopted an increasingly confrontational stance against China.

Imee Marcos, Marcos' sister and chair of the Philippine Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, recently warned against the government's latest measures to counter China in the South China Sea, saying that such actions are leading the country down a "dangerous path."

Amid flaring tensions in the South China Sea, the White House on Thursday escalated its provocative stance by claiming its "ironclad" defense commitment to the Philippines.

By asserting that "any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels, or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty," Washington not only tries to legitimize the Philippines' confrontational approach but also emboldens further provocations by Manila.

Such reckless endorsements only encourage countries like the Philippines to take even more dangerous actions when what is actually needed is diplomacy.

The United States, by forming exclusive cliques with its allies in the region, is also sabotaging the efforts and commitment of China and ASEAN to properly manage and resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation between the states directly involved.

Washington has a long track record of disruptive meddling. Following its blood-soaked interventions in the Middle East, it has been pivoting to Asia.

This pivot is motivated by Washington's relentless pursuit of domination in the Asia-Pacific, the world's most economically dynamic region, and its strategic choice to contain China, which it views as a long-term strategic competitor and "most consequential geopolitical challenge."

For that hegemonic end, Washington has been seeking to sideline established political, economic, and security cooperation mechanisms in the Asia-Pacific. It has effectively undermined the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework, a meticulously crafted and time-honored structure developed over past decades.

And in recent years, Washington has been tirelessly spinning a regional security and military web against China. It has reinforced the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, strengthened the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the Quad, and bolstered the AUKUS nuclear partnership by trying to strengthen cooperation with Japan.

The overarching goal is clear: By fomenting bloc confrontation and cultivating an atmosphere of insecurity in the Asia-Pacific, Washington aims to consolidate its hegemonic position in the Asia-Pacific, dictating the security agenda and exerting control over its allies and partners.

Many countries in the region have refused to be coerced into taking sides, knowing that such moves risk increasing tensions in the region, undermining the notion of "indivisible security" and fuelling mistrust. Malaysia, Singapore, and other regional states have expressed similar views.

China, a member of the Asia-Pacific family, has always advocated for the building of open, non-exclusive circles of friends with an inclusive mind, while rejecting exclusive small blocs. China and the majority of ASEAN countries have also been committed to properly managing their differences and disputes through peaceful means.

Beijing's aspiration and endeavors have won the hearts of people in the Asia Pacific. According to a recent report titled "The State of Southeast Asia 2024" by the Yusof Ishak Institute, a Singapore-based think tank, more than half of people in Southeast Asia favor China over the United States.

Moreover, the survey showed that over 60 percent of the Southeast Asian population endorses the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, indicating the resonance of the Chinese vision.

Though facing strong headwinds, the Asia-Pacific remains the world's most dynamic engine for economic growth. Its remarkable development over recent decades has been fueled by the principles of openness, cooperation, and inclusiveness.

Washington's attempts to undermine this progress by imposing a beggar-thy-neighbor policy and inciting bloc confrontation pose a serious threat to the region's cooperative framework. Countries in the region must remain vigilant against following the United States' destructive agenda. 




Pamela Schwartz, executive director of the Orange County Regional History Center, has resigned.

Pamela is an innovator, who has led efforts to tell Central Floridas stories in new and exciting ways, Venerria L. Thomas, director of Orange Countys Community and Family Services Department, said in a news release. We applaud her tireless efforts, and we wish her well as she enters into her next chapter.

Thomas department oversees operations of the history center.

Schwartz has accepted a position with a global exhibition design firm. Her resignation is effective April 26. The county is planning a national search for its next executive director.

She joined the history center, located in downtown Orlando, in 2016 as chief curator and senior program manager. She was named director in January 2021.

Among the exhibitions generated during her tenure were Yesterday, This Was Home: The Ocoee Massacre of 1920 and Figurehead: Music & Mayhem in Orlandos Underground, which is scheduled to remain at the museum through March 2, 2025.

The Ocoee exhibit was given the American Association for State and Local Historys Excellence and History in Progress Awards. In 2019, the museum received the National Medal for Museum and Library Services.

In 2016, Schwartz spearheaded the One Orlando Collection Initiative, which includes artifacts, photographs, archives, and oral histories tied to the Pulse nightclub shooting.

dbevil@orlandosentinel.com
By Panu Wongcha-um

MAE SOT, Thailand (Reuters) -Hundreds of refugees crossed over the river frontier between Myanmar and Thailand on Friday following the fall of a strategic border town to rebels fighting Myanmar's military junta.

Some said they feared airstrikes by the Myanmar military after the rebel capture of Myawaddy, a town of around 200,000 people lying across the Moei River from the Thai city of Mae Sot.

"That's why I escaped here. They can't bomb Thailand," said one woman, Moe Moe Thet San, a Myawaddy resident who stood in line at a border check-point with dozens of people in the heat. She had crossed the border with her young son.

Thailand's foreign minister said on Friday his government was preparing for an influx of refugees and he urged the Myanmar junta to scale back the violence.

Thailand was also working with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to revive a stalled peace plan for Myanmar, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said.

"It is our neighbouring country and we don't want to see violence," Parnpree told reporters following a visit to Mae Sot. "We want to see them talking with each other. They can use us as a broker if they want."

Myawaddy was wrested from military control by anti-junta forces led by the Karen National Union (KNU) rebel group on Thursday.

Thailand was considering alternative trade routes in case of road closures caused by the fighting, Parnpree said.

A group of less than 200 junta soldiers who had retreated earlier this week from their base to the Thai border were still in the area and Thai authorities had so far not received any requests from them to cross over, Parnpree said.

"They have to drop their weapons, change into civilian clothes before we would allow them to cross over the border," he said.

A group of fewer than 200 junta soldiers who had retreated earlier this week from their base to the Thai border were still in the area and Thai authorities had so far not received any requests from them to cross over, Parnpree said.

"They have to drop their weapons, change into civilian clothes before we would allow them to cross over the border," he said.

This group of junta soldiers sheltering near a bridge came under attack from drones deployed by resistance groups late on Friday, local media reported.

Security in the area was tightened following the attack, with armed Thai soldiers patrolling the riverside and cordoning off some parts under one of the two bridges across to Myawaddy, according to a Reuters witness.

Junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun told Myanmar media some of its troops had abandoned their base because they were accompanied by their families. Negotiations were ongoing with Thailand, he said.

It was not immediately clear which group of junta soldiers he was referring to and he did not respond to a telephone call from Reuters to seek comment.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since 2021, when the powerful military deposed an elected civilian government, triggering widespread protests it sought to crush with force.

Simmering anger against the junta turned into a nationwide armed resistance movement that is now increasingly operating in coordination with established ethnic rebel groups to challenge the military across large parts of Myanmar.

'AFRAID OF AIR STRIKES'

A steady stream of people fleeing Myanmar queued at a border crossing on Friday amid tight security on the Thai side, including vehicles mounted with machine guns overlooking the Moei river.

"I am afraid of air strikes," said Moe Moe Thet San, aged 39. "They caused very loud noises that shook my house."

The loss of Myawaddy robs the junta, already grappling with an economy in free fall, of vital earnings from border trade while strengthening rebel groups, analysts say.

Myanmar's military may still seek to mount a counter-attack, supported by its air force, to regain the town, said Dulyapak Preecharush, an associate professor of Southeast Asian Studies at Bangkok's Thammasat University.

"So there is a question about possible intensification of fighting in the coming days," he told Reuters.

On Thursday, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the fighting in Myanmar should not spill into his country's airspace.

In an interview with Reuters last week, Srettha said the Myanmar junta was "losing strength" as he pushes to open talks with the military government.

Thailand, which says it is staying neutral in the Myanmar conflict and can accept up to 100,000 people displaced by it, has pursued engagement, including aid deliveries, with its neighbour since Srettha came to power last August.

(Reporting by Panu Wongcha-um in Mae Sot and Reuters staff; Writing by Devjyot Ghoshal; Editing by Clarence Fernandez, Kanupriya Kapoor and Angus MacSwan)
Claim:

Former U.S. President Donald Trump said in April 2024 that doctors who perform abortions should be punished.

On April 9, 2024, the Arizona Supreme Court revived an 1864 law that banned almost all abortions in the state. The court opinion suggested but did not explicitly state that doctors providing abortions could be prosecuted under this law. After the ban was revived, a reporter asked former U.S. President Donald Trump about whether doctors who provide abortions should be punished.

A number of posts on X claimed Trump called for doctors to be punished and thrown in jail for providing abortions. Some even stated that he wanted to be allowed to "personally" throw doctors in jail for carrying out abortions.



(X user @BidensWins)

Other users, including Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom, claimed that Trump was saying that "states should be allowed to throw doctors in prison for performing abortions."

Donald Trump says states should be allowed to throw doctors in prison for performing abortions. pic.twitter.com/VdkzkX5w67  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) April 10, 2024

In reality, Trump equivocated on the issue. In response to the question, he said the matter should be left up to the states (leaving open the possibility that a state could punish a doctor for carrying out an abortion).

According to video footage published by The Washington Post, the reporter asked, "Do you think a doctor should be punished, who perform abortions?"

Trump responded: "I'd let that be to the states. You know, everything we're doing now is states and states' rights. And what we wanted to do is get it back to the states, because for 53 years it's been a fight. And now the states are handling it. And some have handled it very well, and the others will end up handling it very well. And those are the things that states are going to make a determination about."

The exchange can be found here:

The Washington Post noted that the GOP released a 2022 memo that explicitly stated, "Republicans DO NOT want to throw doctors and women in jail" as well as "Mothers should be held harmless under the law." The memo was presented as a Republican attempt to counter what the party called Democrats' "lies" about their abortion positions. However, numerous GOP-sponsored bills from that time did threaten doctors with jail.

The Post also noted that Trump was not asked specifically about putting doctors "in prison" (as claimed in some social media posts), even though the Arizona law threatens that punishment. He was asked about punishment more broadly, though the context was clearly about Arizona.

In March and April 2024, Trump was punting on questions related to specific abortion laws, and focused on states' rights as a way to avoid taking a firm position pro or con, according to The Post. However, we have reported how he had frequently taken credit for overturning Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court ruling that guaranteed federal abortion protections for all women.

Trump's stance on abortion has shifted considerably over the years. He commented on Arizona's abortion ban on April 10, 2024, saying he felt it went too far, without getting into specifics, saying it would be "straightened out." He added, "It is all about states' rights." Trump also said he would not sign a nationwide abortion ban if he were elected to the White House, reversing his position as a 2016 candidate and during his first term in office when he had supported a federal abortion ban. In 2016, he also said there "has to be some form of punishment" for women who were seeking abortion.

Sources:

Blake, Aaron. "Analysis | The GOP and Where It's Headed on Criminalizing Abortion." Washington Post, 11 May 2022. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2022/05/11/republicans-criminalize-abortion/. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.

Blake, Aaron. "Analysis | Trump's Telling Comment on Punishing Doctors Who Provide Abortions." Washington Post, 10 Apr. 2024. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/04/10/trumps-telling-comment-punishing-doctors-who-provide-abortions/. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.

Dale, Daniel and Kate Sullivan, Kristen Holmes, Steve Contorno. "Trump Says Abortion Legislation Should Be Left to States | CNN Politics." CNN, 8 Apr. 2024, https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/08/politics/donald-trump-abortion-2024/index.html. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.

Ibrahim, Nur. "Trump Took Credit for Overturning Roe v. Wade?" Snopes, 9 Apr. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/trump-overturning-roe-v-wade/. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.

Sullivan, Kate and Steve Contorno. "Trump Says He Wouldn't Sign Federal Abortion Ban | CNN Politics." CNN, 10 Apr. 2024, https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/10/politics/trump-says-he-wouldnt-sign-federal-abortion-ban/index.html. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.

"Trump Says States Should Determine Whether to Punish Doctors." Washington Post, April 10, 2024. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6Wgc1p5rOU. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.

"What to Know about Abortion in Arizona under the Near-Total 1864 Ban." AP News, 10 Apr. 2024, https://apnews.com/article/arizona-abortion-ban-what-to-know-797a4bbbc738497fe2284d6870c5be24. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.
Fact Check: There's No Proof Trump Asked If It's Wrong To Be More Sexually Attracted to Your Own Daughter than Your Wife

Claim:

In 1994 or 1995, Donald Trump said of his 13-year-old daughter Ivanka, "Is it wrong to be more sexually attracted to your own daughter than your wife?"

Rating:

Rating: Unproven

On April 10, 2024, a user on X posted a meme showing a photo of Donald Trump and his daughter Ivanka. The meme read, "In 1993, Trump asked, 'Is it wrong to be more sexually attracted to your own daughter than your wife?' At the time, Ivanka was 13 years old."

Remember when Biden went on national television saying that he and Ashley Biden have sex in common?



Oh, wait. That was Trump.



Trump asked if it's wrong to be more sexually attracted to his 13 year old daughter than his wife.



If you agree that it's wrong, #VoteForBiden. pic.twitter.com/FY59xJyYpt  Shelly R Kirchoff (@ShellyRKirchoff) April 10, 2024

We first traced this quote to the 2020 book "Trump: The Chosen One: Road to Perdition." The book referenced as its source an article published by Cosmopolitan on Nov. 22, 2016. The Cosmopolitan article cited original reporting from BuzzFeed News.

According to the BuzzFeed News article  which also was published on Nov. 22, 2016  the supposed Trump quote appeared only in an early, unpublished draft of an opinion column from The Washington Post. The early draft was sent to outlets that would syndicate the story, BuzzFeed News said. The reporting from BuzzFeed News did not say its journalists personally reviewed the unpublished draft. Rather, it cited one unnamed source as its evidence.

Snopes contacted editors for the Post, the writer of the BuzzFeed News article and Trump's 2024 reelection campaign to inquire about the truth of this matter. This story will be updated should we receive any further details.

The Origins of the Quote

The opinion column from the Post was titled, "Our next president, the Godfather" and was written by Richard Cohen, who worked for the Post from 1968 to 2019. Hours after outlets reportedly received the early draft, the column was published without the quote on the night of Nov. 21, 2016.

The BuzzFeed News story, citing its one unnamed source, said one of the early drafts of Cohen's Post column included the following paragraph:

Jared Kushner, our Tom Hagen, who married Trump's stunning daughter Ivanka  "Can I ask you something?" Trump asked someone I know, about his then-13-year-old kid, "Is it wrong to be more sexually attracted to your own daughter than your wife?" -- has lately lost some of this Boy Scout aura. It turns out Kushner's admission to Harvard was preceded by his father's $2.5 million pledge.

The following text appears in the published version of the story on the Post's website, minus the quote reportedly included in an earlier draft:

Jared Kushner, our Tom Hagen, who married Trump's daughter Ivanka, has lately lost some of this Boy Scout aura. It turns out Kushner's admission to Harvard was preceded by his father's $2.5 million pledge.

Some online memes and posts wrongly claimed the Post's reporting said Trump had spoken the remark directly to Cohen, while other users included a year for Ivanka that did not line up with when she was 13 years old.

To be clear, the purported early draft of the Post column said Trump had asked the question to an unnamed person with whom Cohen was familiar. Also, Ivanka was born on Oct. 30, 1981. She turned 13 on Oct. 30, 1994, and the remark was then said to have been spoken by Trump in either 1994 or 1995, not 1993 as the meme claimed. In 1994 and 1995, Trump was early in his second marriage with Marla Maples.

After publishing its story about the quote, BuzzFeed News received a statement from Fred Hiatt, who at the time was the Post's editorial page editor.

"We (or the Washington Post Writers Group, our affiliated syndicate) edit every column to try to make it as good as it can be," Hiatt told BuzzFeed News. "We don't think it would be fair to our writers to discuss the editing process, and don't see what is to be gained by talking about things that are not published  there are countless drafts that never see the light of day."

Other 'Questionable' Remarks About Ivanka Trump

Going back to Cosmopolitan's 2016 article, the reporting noted the remark referenced by BuzzFeed News wasn't "the first time Trump's questionable references to his daughter have surfaced."

"He said on the Howard Stern Show in 2003 that 'she's got the best body,'" Cosmopolitan wrote. "The next year, he was back on Stern agreeing with the radio host that she was 'A piece of a**.' He also admitted on 'The View' that, 'I've said if Ivanka weren't my daughter, perhaps I'd be dating her.'"

These remarks and others were previously included in a compilation of comments posted in a YouTube video by New York Magazine.

Conclusion

It's possible Trump may have made the remark about being more sexually attracted to his young daughter Ivanka than his wife, considering the fact video and audio exist of him making other similar comments. For example, after Trump made a remark on "The View" in 2006 saying he'd date Ivanka if she wasn't his daughter, a Trump representative later told The Associated Press that Trump "was absolutely joking. He was making fun of himself for his tendency to date younger women. It's a sense of humor that people don't see [from him] all the time."

Without further evidence, we haven't yet been able to definitively confirm the veracity of the quote published by BuzzFeed News. A rating of "Unproven" has been selected for this fact check. This rating does not mean the rumor is true or false. Rather, it simply means we weren't yet able to find and independently review enough evidence to make a more firm determination.

For further reading, we previously reported more details about the Trump remark about considering dating his daughter and the rumor he once admitted to going into changing rooms of beauty pageant contestants. We also published a story in 2019 about a claim regarding the same "sexually attracted to your own daughter" quote.

Sources:

Cohen, Richard. "Opinion | Our next President, the Godfather." Washington Post, 12 Apr. 2023, https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/our-next-president-the-godfather/2016/11/21/c5040e82-b012-11e6-8616-52b15787add0_story.html.

"Donald Trump." Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Donald-Trump.

Evon, Dan. "Did Donald Trump Say He'd Like to Date His Daughter?" Snopes, 10 July 2015, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/donald-trump-date-daughter/.

Fine, Bruce, and Hank Lewin. Trump: The Chosen One: Road to Perdition. Gatekeeper Press, 2020.

Griffin, Tamerra. "Draft Washington Post Column Claimed Trump Said He Was 'Sexually Attracted' To His Teenage Daughter." BuzzFeed News, 22 Nov. 2016, https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/tamerragriffin/trump-asked-if-its-wrong-to-be-attracted-to-his-daughter.

"Gross Things Donald Trump Has Said About His Daughters." YouTube, New York Magazine, 13 May 2016, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EPEkk6qWkg.

Ibrahim, Nur. "Did Trump Admit Going Into Changing Room of Beauty Pageant Contestants?" Snopes, 26 Mar. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//news/2024/03/26/trump-pageant-dressing-rooms/.

Jung, Helin. "Donald Trump Once Allegedly Asked If It Was 'Wrong' to Be 'Sexually Attracted' to Ivanka." Cosmopolitan, 22 Nov. 2016, https://www.cosmopolitan.com/politics/a8353161/donald-trump-sexual-attraction-ivanka-trump/.

Kasprak, Alex. "Did Donald Trump Say 2 Lovers Reminded Him of Daughter Ivanka?" Snopes, 16 July 2019, https://www.snopes.com//news/2019/07/16/trump-mcdougal-stormy-ivanka/.

"Richard Cohen." The Washington Post, https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/richard-cohen/.

Schudel, Matt. "Fred Hiatt, Washington Post Editorial Page Editor, Dies at 66." The Washington Post, 6 Dec. 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/obituaries/2021/12/06/fred-hiatt-dies/.

"Trump Jokes That He'd Date Daughter." TODAY.com via The Associated Press, 7 Mar. 2006, https://www.today.com/popculture/trump-jokes-he-d-date-daughter-wbna11714379.
Former President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson raised concerns Friday about the integrity of US elections in a joint appearance at Mar-a-Lago that featured false claims about voting, immigration and other topics.

Trumps team billed the event as being about election integrity a phrase he often uses to describe the lie that the 2020 election was rigged, as well as his unfounded claims about future mass voter fraud.

Heres a breakdown of some of the false claims from their remarks.

Johnson raises baseless concerns on noncitizen voting

House Speaker Mike Johnson raised baseless concerns about potentially hundreds of thousands of votes being cast by undocumented immigrants in the November presidential election.

If an individual only asserts or simply states that they are a citizen, they dont have to prove it, and they can register that person to vote in a federal election, Johnson said, adding that we only want US citizens to vote in US elections.

To solve this issue, which he called a serious problem, Johnson said House Republicans would propose a bill that requires people to directly provide proof of US citizenship when registering to vote for federal elections.

Facts First: The system, as it is currently set up, is working, and effectively prevents mass voting by non-citizens in US elections. Despite Johnsons focus on this topic, it is extremely rare, according to decades of voting data and nonpartisan experts. Its so uncommon that voting experts dont see it as a problem plaguing US elections.

In federal and state elections, where voting by non-citizens is illegal, it occurs on a microscopic level. (Its true that a handful of municipalities have passed laws letting non-citizens participate in local elections, like for school board. But this wasnt the focus of Johnsons concerns about federal elections.)

When people register to vote, they must provide a drivers license or social security number, and their identity is checked against existing databases. Voters are required to swear under penalty of perjury that they are a US citizen, and multiple federal laws make it illegal for non-citizens to vote, which can lead to imprisonment or deportation.

This system, as shown from decades of data, is very effective at stopping non-citizens from registering and voting in federal elections.

It happens almost never, said David Becker, founder of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation & Research. Making something illegal doesnt stop it from happening, but we know how often it happens, and its extremely rare. This is a problem that is very small. And it has almost always occurred because of a misunderstanding.

The right-leaning Heritage Foundations database of confirmed fraud cases lists less than 100 examples of non-citizens voting between 2002 and 2022, amid more than one billion lawfully cast ballots. And the left-leaning Brennan Center for Justice analyzed more than 23 million votes from the 2016 election and found an estimated 30 examples.

Further, from a common-sense perspective, theres little to gain for an undocumented immigrant who theoretically wants to vote in a presidential election. Theres almost no chance their single ballot would tip the results, and theyd be risking everything to do it.

The penalties are high, and the payoff is low, said Rick Hasen, an election law expert at the UCLA School of Law. If you arent a citizen and you vote, and youre caught, you can face deportation and criminal penalties. And your chances of affecting an election outcome are small. Its very unlikely someone would purposely choose to vote as a noncitizen.

Hasen, a Trump critic, said, if we had a big problem in this country with non-citizen voting, maybe that would justify more than an affidavit, swearing to their citizenship status. But because we dont have a big problem, we dont need to put impediments in the path of more than 99% of voters who are qualified.

Trump has a long history of spreading false claims about foreign nationals voting in US elections. Most famously, he claimed millions of undocumented immigrants cast ballots in 2016, a brazen lie that he used to explain why he lost the popular vote to Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

From CNNs Marshall Cohen

Trump claims that millions of migrants are coming from the Congo, Venezuela, mental institutions

Trump claimed that millions and millions of people, including terrorists and people from jails and mental institutions have come illegally to the United States from countries like Venezuela and the Congo.

Facts First: There is no evidence for Trumps repeated claims that any coutries, much less the Congo and Venezuela, have emptied prisons and mental health institutions to allow violent criminals to come to the US border as migrants.

Last year, Trumps campaign was unable to provide any evidence for his narrower claim at the time that South American countries were emptying mental health facilities to somehow dump patients upon the US. Experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo, plus both pro-immigration and anti-immigration organizations in the US have also told CNN they have not seen any evidence of Congolese prisons being emptied.

From CNNs Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Daniel Dale

Trump falsely claimed Biden is orchestrating the criminal trial against him

Trump baselessly claimed  as he often does  that Biden is secretly orchestrating the New York state criminal case against him, which is set to go to trial on Monday.

That is election interference by the Biden administration, Trump said. They actually took their top guy, one of their top guys, put him into the D.A.s office to run it, and it is a shame.

Trump is referring to the fact that Matthew Colangelo, who had served as a senior Justice Department official under Biden, left the department in 2022 for a job in the office of the Manhattan District Attorney who is prosecuting the case, Alvin Bragg.

Facts First: There is no basis for Trumps claims that the trials against him have been directed by Biden in an effort to interfere with the election.

First, there is no evidence that Biden, his White House or his Justice Department has had any role in launching or running Braggs case, let alone that Biden operatives are issuing secret commands in the case  and Bragg is a locally elected official who does not report to the federal government.

There is also no evidence the White House or the Biden administration had anything to do with Colangelos decision to leave the Justice Department and join the district attorneys office as senior counsel to Bragg; Colangelo and Bragg had been colleagues before Bragg was elected Manhattan district attorney in 2021.

From CNNs Marshall Cohen and Daniel Dale

Trump inflates border crossing numbers

Trump said millions and millions of people are pouring in (to the US)  We probably have 15 million (migrants).

Facts First: Trumps figure about how many migrants have crossed the border under the Biden administration is inflated.

As of March, US Customs and Border Protection has recorded nearly 9.4 million border encounters nationwide since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021.

While millions of people are not pouring into the US at one time, the nation continues to grapple with a migrant surge at the southern border.

From CNNs Danya Gainor

Trump claims that every legal scholar wanted Roe v. Wade overturned

At an appearance in Mar A Lago with House Speaker Mike Johnson, former President Donald Trump touted that we broke Roe V. Wade and claimed that every legal scholar wanted it overturned.

Facts First: Trumps claim that every legal scholar wanted Roe overturned is not true. Many wanted Roe preserved, as several legal scholars reiterated in comments to CNN earlier this week.

Read more from those legal scholars here.

From CNNs Daniel Dale and Piper Hudspeth Blackburn

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Washingtons agricultural sector faces a dire labor shortage. But thats not even the worst part.

Elected leaders have watched the crisis unfold for decades without acting. Now that the system is on the brink of collapse, Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., has proposed yet another solution. Lets hope that this time, Congress can finally get something done.

As the Tri-City Heralds Cory McCoy recently reported, the 311,000 H2A Visas granted to guest workers in 2023 is far short of the number that farmers requested and, worse, far less than the real labor demand.

About 10% of all visa holders  most of them Mexican nationals  work in Washington, accounting for about one-third of the agricultural workforce. Washingtons farm worker labor force peaked at 100,000 workers in 2018.

The H2A system is antiquated.

Designed decades ago to protect the rights of domestic workers, it has not kept pace with changes in technology and labor market realities.

Many farm owners therefore go outside the overly bureaucratic visa system and choose undocumented laborers instead. Even they struggle to fill labor needs.

Newhouses Farm Workforce Modernization Act addresses some of the most glaring inefficiencies. It would overhaul the H2A program, streamlining processes and enhancing flexibility for employers.

In return, it would require agricultural employers to use a newly upgraded E-Verify system, ensuring compliance with immigration laws while safeguarding the rights of authorized workers.

The bill outlines a pathway for agricultural workers to earn legal status through continued employment in the industry. By creating a separate category of visas with longer time frames and less restrictive renewals, the legislation aims to ensure a stable and sustainable workforce for years to come.

Crucially, the bill also tackles the persistent issue of housing costs, allocating funds to preserve existing housing stock and incentivizing the construction of new accommodations for farm workers. This investment not only improves living conditions but also alleviates financial burdens on employers.

There are kinks to work out, of course.

Some provisions of the bill wont fly with Democrats, including a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H2A workers. Other lawmakers are sure to object  philosophically or practically  to the idea of government subsidies to help employers pay for housing.

Critics from both political sides raise the kinds of well-trodden objections that have stymied meaningful reform in the past. Some on the right worry about the immigration status of workers hypothetical future children. Some on the left say that worker protections in the bill dont go far enough.

Partisans have used the countrys self-imposed immigration challenges to incite voters into a froth of anger rather than compromise on solutions. Their pandering to their bases has impeded attempts at commonsense reform of the outdated and burdensome H2A Visa program.

Republicans have been the greater culprits of late, though.

Hostility to immigrants has become a core GOP tenet under former President Donald Trump. Before anyone praises Newhouse for his bill, remember that he was complicit by association in his partys rejection of the recent deal that would have implemented some reforms in conjunction with aid to Ukraine and Israel.

Lawmakers and America have run out of options.

Washingtons agricultural sector isnt just another industry; its the lifeblood of our states economy and a cornerstone of our nations food supply.

Failure to act now risks not only the livelihoods of countless farmworkers and growers but also the nations food security. This is not a game.

On the whole, Newhouses bill offers bipartisan solutions, allowing lawmakers to secure a prosperous future for a vital industry and to make up for years of shameful shirking of their duty.

They must put aside their differences and prioritize the needs of the farmers who feed the nation.
A woman with intellectual disabilities who was incarcerated in the Tarrant County Jail ended up being hospitalized after her family called 911 for medical help, according to a lawsuit filed against the county in federal court.

Kelly Masten, 38, has the mind of a 4-year-old or a 5-year-old child due to her disabilities, according to the lawsuit filed Wednesday. Her family is suing Tarrant County after an 11-day incarceration at the jail resulted in her being put into a medically induced coma in the ICU due to injuries she suffered while in jail, the lawsuit states.

The Tarrant County Sheriffs Office, which oversees the jail, did not immediately respond to a Star-Telegram request for comment about the lawsuit Thursday afternoon.

On April 11, 2022, Masten was having a difficult day, according to the lawsuit. When she wanted to eat a chicken pot pie and found out there was none left, she became upset. Her grandmother was the only one home, and she tried to soothe Masten, according to the lawsuit. That didnt work and only made her more agitated.

Eventually, Masten bit her grandmother, according to the lawsuit. The grandmother called 911, hoping to get medical help to calm Masten down.

Mastens guardian, her sister Kristina Salinas, filed the lawsuit on her behalf. Salinas had recently moved to Missouri and had plans for Masten to join her after a few months, the suit says. In the meantime, Masten was in the care of her mother and grandmother. Masten has Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, which causes almost daily seizures that can rob oxygen from her brain. according to the family.

Instead of authorities offering medical help, the lawsuit says, Tarrant County sheriffs deputies arrived and placed Masten under arrest. Her family tried to explain her developmental disabilities, and Mastens physical disabilities are visible, but deputies wouldnt listen, according to the suit. They told Mastens grandmother that she would be taken to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth within a couple of hours.

That didnt happen, according to the suit. Instead, Masten was incarcerated in a cell in general population that was not padded. A doctor from My Health My Resources of Tarrant County was called to examine Masten and recorded that her disabilities would be obvious to anybody, including deputies, corrections officers and anybody else with whom she came in contact, the suit states.

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The doctor also said Masten was not fit for incarceration in the general public, but she was still kept there, according to the lawsuit.

On the morning of April 14, 2022, Masten was found on the floor in a cell, still in the general population, the lawsuit reads. She had a wet substance around her and blood on her face from a laceration on her lip. She was then taken to JPS, where doctors couldnt access her medical records because she was booked with the wrong name and the wrong date of birth. Records provided to the hospital from the jail had redactions, including a word that Mastens attorneys said they believe will eventually be found to say seizures.

Masten was discharged and sent back to the jail that same day, according to the lawsuit. She was given a prescription, but on April 15, a jailer informed a lieutenant that Masten had been having seizures in her unpadded cell. The lieutenant requested that Masten be rehoused by medical staff, but medical decided that she was OK where she was, the suit states.

A doctor ordered her to be rehoused by medical the next day but that didnt happen, according to the lawsuit. On April 17, the appropriate authorities received the doctors order to rehouse her but said there wasnt enough space and she remained in an unpadded cell. It wasnt until April 18 that she was moved to a medical unit of the jail, still not in a padded cell. Nurses at the jail noted that if she started having a seizure while standing, she would fall to the ground. On April 19, the jail classified Masten as a fall risk. The next day, she fell out of a bunk in a concrete and metal cell.

An hour after that fall on April 20, Masten was taken by ambulance to the hospital, according to the suit. Her face was swollen and when paramedics arrived they found Masten on the ground with her legs wrapped around a metal post of a bunk because shed fallen again. At the hospital, a doctor noted that bruising indicated multiple falls while in the jail. Her clothes smelled of urine and had food on them. Bruises were all over her legs, back, arms, hips, shoulders and face.

Family members on April 14 brought medications for Masten to the jail and informed authorities about her seizures but were turned away, according to the lawsuit. Salinas, Mastens sister, posted her bond on April 20. While waiting for Masten to be released, she told a corporal at the jail reception that Masten didnt need to be in a small concrete cell and told the corporal there about Mastens developmental and physical disabilities.

The corporal at reception didnt call to confirm Masten was safe and being prepared for release, according to the suit. They told Salinas that if she didnt calm down and listen she would be escorted out of the building. The corporal said Masten was in a medical part of the jail and was being watched constantly.

The lawsuit says that is either untrue, or that the people observing her were watching her repeatedly fall and hurt herself.

Salinas was unable to pick up Masten that day, though, because shed fallen earlier in the day and was waiting on an ambulance to take her to the hospital again, according to the lawsuit. In total, Masten was in the custody of the Tarrant County Sheriffs office for more than 10 days.

When family members saw Masten, she barely recognized them, they said. She had a split lip, bruising all over her body and dark bruises around her eyes.

Seeing Masten like that made Salinas knees buckle and she screamed so loudly it brought security running to see what was going on, according to the lawsuit. Masten was taken into intensive care, where doctors put her in a medically induced coma and said they didnt expect her to survive.

Masten did survive, according to the lawsuit, but her family still doesnt know the full effects of her time incarcerated in the Tarrant County Jail.

The family is suing the county, alleging it violated Mastens constitutional rights, and asking a jury to award them damages for pain and suffering, disfigurement, medical bills, attorneys fees and punitive damages.
A 16-year-old suspect accused of shoving a grandmother down a flight of church steps and rummaging through her purse was arrested Thursday, the NYPD said.

The victim, who was identified by her family as 68-year-old Irene Tahliambouris, was pushed so hard that she went airborne and landed flat on her back, security video shows.

She suffered a fractured skull and a black eye, according to her family, and as she writhed in pain, the suspect allegedly stole $300, her cellphone and her car before fleeing the scene outside St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Queens, New York, on Sunday.

"We are devastated to even imagine the pain she is experiencing after being knocked off the stairs of the church, hitting the back of her head on the concrete while this vicious person, with no consideration for life, attacked her and took all her belongings and her car," her family said in a statement.

WOMAN HEADING TO CHURCH RANDOMLY SHOVED DOWN STEPS AND ROBBED, VIDEO SHOWS

Queens, New York, grandmother Irene Tahliambouris was mugged while walking into church.

Tahliambouris walked up the church stairs on Sunday when the teenage suspect ran alongside her and then pushed her from the top step, surveillance footage shows.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Her family said a lax approach to law and order, coupled with a high recidivism rate, continues to put unsuspecting victims in harm's way.

BAT-WIELDING NYC HOMEOWNER CATCHES PORCH PIRATE BY SETTING TRAP, VIDEO SHOWS

"Criminals feel comfortable doing things to helpless people because the laws in our state do not hold them accountable," her family said. "The recidivism rate of criminal felonies is high, yet the state refuses to change laws to remand them to jail or charge them to the fullest extent of the law.

"We are seeing an increase in petty crimes that are no longer able to be prosecuted, and those people are going on to commit violent crimes, yet Albany and NYC refuse to make the necessary changes to the law to ensure these criminals are held accountable."

The NYPD arrested this suspect, who pushed a 68-year-old woman down the stairs in Queens and stole money, video shows.

The suspect in Sunday's attack, who was not named because of his age, was arrested by the NYPD and charged with robbery and assault.

Meanwhile, the victim was rushed to the hospital in critical condition after the attack. She is now in "stable" condition.

"She is showing signs of recognition, giving us hope," her family said. "Irene is a loving woman who has always been there to help anyone in need, always happy and in good spirits."

POLICE, GUNMAN EXCHANGE FIRE IN HOTEL AFTER PHONY 'MURDER' 911 TEXT, BODYCAM SHOWS

Her son said in a verified GoFundMe post, "I'm helping my mom to be able to get what she needs to get her life back together."

The brutality of the attack seen in the surveillance video brought more attention to this case.

"We know that the District Attorney and the NYPD are giving this case the attention it deserves," the family said. "We trust that they will take all necessary actions to bring the perpetrator to justice and uphold the safety of our community.

"We are grateful for the support and prayers from our community and from people everywhere."





Original article source: Family of grandmother attacked on church steps blasts lawmakers for not holding criminals accountable
GROVE CITY, Ohio (WCMH)  A footwear company that started in Minnesota has opened a new location in central Ohio.

Red Wing Shoes recently opened to customers at 1720 Stringtown Road in Grove City. According to the citys Chamber of Commerce, the shoe store held its grand opening on March 27 celebrating the location.

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The family-owned business started in 1905 in Red Wing, Minnesota, according to the company website. Red Wing offers a variety of options from boots and shoes, to leather goods like belts, wallets, and more. The shop also has accessories including hats, socks, safety gloves and products for shoe care.

The Grove City spot isnt the shoe companys only Ohio location, Red Wing has several shops including a Columbus location on West Broad Street and Sawmill Road, East Main Street in Reynoldsburg, Coughlin Lane in Delaware and West Schrock Road in Westerville.

Footwear company Red Wing Shoes celebrating new opening in Grove City. (Courtesy: Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce)

Footwear company Red Wing Shoes celebrating new opening in Grove City. (Courtesy: Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce)

Footwear company Red Wing Shoes celebrating new opening in Grove City. (Courtesy: Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce)

(Courtesy: Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce)

The shop is located in Grove Citys Parkway Centre-North Shopping Center. Red Wing Shoes is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
State Rep. Adam Morgan shares a laugh with other members before the start of the Education and Public Works Full Committee meeting in Columbia, S.C. on Tuesday, March 1, 2022. (Travis Bell/STATEHOUSE CAROLINA)

Rep. Adam Morgan, a Greenville Republican who is seeking the SC 4th Congressional District seat against incumbent William Timmons, took to the House floor Tuesday to speak against campaign contributions being used for childcare. He said campaign contribution money should not have any connection to personal affairs.

Morgans campaign expenditure history, however, have made some question whether his actions contradict these recent statements.

Morgan, chair of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus, was called out via X, formerly Twitter, for paying his family, business and families business from his campaign accounts in the past. He says these expenditures were campaign related.

Morgans twitter feud is not new, as the South Carolina Freedom Caucus and House Republican caucus find themselves attacking each other on social media almost weekly. The Freedom Caucus will often post pictures of the chambers voting board, while House Republicans counter claims that the Freedom Caucus makes about the Republican party.

What Morgan said about campaign contributions being used for childcare

When people donate to a campaign, that money should be used in your campaign for office, Morgan said on the House floor Tuesday. It should be very limited, very tailored so that we dont have the situation where you have outside influences donating to a campaign to help you out in your specific circumstances at home.

The House was discussing a bill that would allow SC candidates to use campaign funds for dependent care, or specifically childcare. The bill passed later that day.

I think thats a problem, I think its an excessive entanglement, I dont think South Carolina should be doing that, dont you agree that that opens up that potentiality by doing this specifically related to campaign contributions being used for private expenditures in our private lives directly related to childcare and care of other dependent adults? asked Morgan to Rep. Jay Jordan, House Ethics chair.

Opponents say Morgans words dont match up with his actions, focusing on specific words in his speech, telling people they cant and should not use campaign contributions for childcare or dependent care, but then having paid his family from campaign contributions.

What do Morgans campaign expenditures show?

Morgan was called out on Twitter, where photos of expenditures from 2018-2020 were posted of him paying his brother, his business and family business nearly $10,000 from his campaign account.

There were three payments to his brother, Alan Morgan, who is currently a representative in the House, one for $87 listed as Website plug-ins, another for $500 as campaign consulting, and one for $1,000 as campaign consulting. He paid $6,766 on June 28, 2018 to his family business, Majesty Music, a gospel childrens music company, for mailers and postage and $2,044 on September 24, 2020 for campaign mailer. He paid $925 to his dads marketing/consulting group, Palmetto Fortis, in 2018 for renting a tent for a campaign event. Expenditure reports at the SC Ethics website confirm these vendors and amounts.

Christopher Slick, SC political strategist, who has worked for House leadership including current speaker Murrell Smith, tweeted Morgans past expenditures the day the House passed the dependent care bill and he spoke against it.

Lets take a look at what outgoing @SCFreedomCaucus Chairman @RepAdamMorgansays (seen below)and another look at what he does: you know, things like pay his own family and business $8,100 from his campaign account over the course of three years. Did you do it, Adam? Tell us, Freedom Boy! Ive got the papers that say you did, Slick tweeted.

What does Morgan say about the expenditures?

Morgan said the form states clearly that the expenditures were legitimate campaign expenses, including mailers, websites and a tent for a kick off event, in a text message to The State.

I refuse to hire a Columbia consultant like the person who was paid by House leadership to send this kind of tweet, Morgan said, referencing Slick. Instead, I ran a grassroots campaign on a shoestring budget. We need more of that in politics.

Morgan affirmed he was against the bill that passed in the House Tuesday allowing campaign contributions to be used for personal expenses, he texted.

When asked about responding to critics calling the situation hypocritical, he said This is really simple -- restrict campaign funds to legitimate campaign expenses not personal expenses, Morgan texted.

What is allowed under SC law?

Under the SC state ethics laws, campaign services performed by a candidates family member, business or a families business is allowed. Candidates can not defray personal expenses unrelated to the campaign or office, but can use family business or members in South Carolina.

There is little guidance, either in the Ethics Act itself or in the Commission Advisory Opinions, on whether expending campaign funds for services rendered by a candidates business, a family business or a family member would per se be a personal campaign expenditure, and therefore violative of section 8-13-1348, the 2016 opinion reads.
SYDNEY, April 12 (Xinhua) -- A teenage boy has died and another is fighting for life in hospital with critical injury after a stabbing took place on Friday near an Australian school.

At about 3:40 p.m. local time, emergency services responded to the stabbings near a school on Power Street in Doonside, a suburb located approximately 35 km west of Sydney's central business district.

Before police officers arrived, two boys in their teens had presented themselves to the Blacktown Police Station with stab wounds.

Both received treatment at the station. But one boy later died at the scene, while the other was transported to a hospital in a serious condition.

Police have established multiple crime scenes, with investigations launched into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

New South Wales Police Force confirmed in a statement that one person has been arrested and inquiries are ongoing. 
Months after a scandal over his ties to white supremacists, far-right political operative and former state lawmaker Jonathan Stickland has created a new group  with help from outgoing Texas GOP Chair Matt Rinaldi.

On March 5, Stickland registered RaTmasTeR Holdings LLC with the Texas secretary of state, and Rinaldi is listed as the new groups organizer. A week later, the chief operating officer of Pale Horse Strategies  a far-right consulting firm Stickland owns  separately registered another group, Patriot Service Alliance LLC, according to the Texas Voice, a conservative website that first noted the new groups on Friday.

RaTmasTeR is a reference to the alias that Stickland has used for decades in online gaming forums, where he was an infamous troll. Stickland parlayed the skills he honed during his early life as an internet antagonist to help lift him from a job in pest control to the Texas House and, eventually, one of the most powerful political positions in the state.

Stickland and Rinaldi, who is stepping down as Texas GOP chair next month, did not respond to requests for comment Friday afternoon.

Stickland has been at the center of a white supremacy scandal since October, when The Texas Tribune reported that he had hosted infamous Adolf Hitler fan Nick Fuentes at Pale Horses offices for several hours. Rinaldi was also spotted outside Pale Horses one-story office building in rural Tarrant County, but denied knowing Fuentes was inside.

The meeting  as well as subsequent reporting by the Tribune that uncovered other white supremacists in Sticklands orbit  prompted House Speaker Dade Phelan and other Republicans to call for party members to redirect money they received from Sticklands group, Defend Texas Liberty, to pro-Israel charities.

Defend Texas Liberty is a powerful political action committee that West Texas oil billionaires Tim Dunn and Farris Wilks have used to give more than $15 million to far-right groups, lawmakers and candidates. Dunn and Wilks are also Attorney General Ken Paxtons biggest donors, and Defend Texas Liberty gave $3 million to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick last summer, before Patrick presided over Paxtons impeachment trial in the state Senate.

In the fallout from the Fuentes meeting, nearly half of the Texas GOPs executive committee called for the party to cut ties with Stickland and Defend Texas Liberty, which was the partys biggest donor last year.

Stickland was quietly replaced as Defend Texas Libertys president in October, and Pale Horse Strategies later rebranded as West Fort Worth Management LLC. (Not long after it was registered last month, Patriot Service Alliance filed paperwork to operate under the name West Fort Worth Management LLC). Rinaldi, meanwhile, has continued to attack critics of Stickland and Defend Texas Liberty  while quietly working as an attorney for Wilks, one of the groups billionaire funders.

In November, the Texas GOPs executive committee narrowly rejected a resolution that banned the party from associating with Holocaust deniers, antisemites and neo-Nazis  language that some members argued could create a slippery slope and complicate the partys relationship with donors or future candidates. After backlash, the party in January passed a resolution that banned it from associating with antisemites  a significantly watered-down version of previous proposals that specifically named Stickland and Defend Texas Liberty.

Disclosure: Texas Secretary of State has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival, happening in downtown Austin Sept. 5-7. Get your TribFest tickets before May 1 and save big!
FARMINGTON, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A Farmington man was arrested after being accused of having inappropriate communication with a minor, according to court documents.

Edward Hahling, 34, was arrested on April 5 on two counts of internet stalking of a child, possession of child sexual abuse material and sexual grooming of a child.

Rogers police began investigating on April 3 after they received a complaint about a minor receiving text messages from an unknown person, according to an affidavit.

A message from the unknown person, later identified as Hahling told the child it was a random number and wanted to know if they wanted to be his friend.

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The child told Hahling their age and he responded by saying he liked their age and wanted to know if they wanted to meet and have sex.

The affidavit said Hahling asked the child to not call the police, ghost him or cheat on him.

The child said Hahling sent an AI-generated image of themselves and Hahling asked them to send pictures in return.

A Rogers detective began communicating with Hahling claiming to be a friend of the child, the affidavit said.

Hahling asked the undercover detective to send him an inappropriate photo but they said they could not send those images. He reportedly sent multiple photographs of himself and sexually explicit messages to the detective.

Rogers and Farmington detectives set up to meet Hahling outside of a store near his residence, but the detectives ended up going to Hahlings home and arresting him.

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When Hahling was taken into custody, he said his mother had guardianship over him due to his mental status and he could not answer any questions or sign anything due to the guardianship.

The affidavit said his mother has had guardianship over him as of 2022.

According to the affidavit, Hahling was arrested in California in 2017 for similar offenses. It said the charges were possibly a result of an undercover investigation.

The prosecution was suspended due to Hahling being mentally incompetent, the affidavit said.

Hahling is being held on a $250,000 bond and is ordered to have no unsupervised contact with minors and no internet access.

He has a court date set for May 13.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Italian designer Roberto Cavalli, known for his unique animal print designs and eponymous fashion house, has died. He was 83 years old.

The legendary designer's death was announced Friday on his company's Instagram page along with a heartfelt message. The company did not share exact details surrounding his cause of death.

PHOTO: Fashion designer Roberto Cavalli and his wife Eva acknowledge the audience after the Roberto Cavalli Spring-Summer 2012 Menswear collection, June 18, 2011, during the Men's fashion week in Milan. (Olivier Morin/AFP via Getty Images)

"It is with great sadness that today we say our final goodbyes to our founder Roberto Cavalli," the company wrote in a statement. "From humble beginnings in Florence, Roberto succeeded in becoming a globally recognised name loved and respected by all. Naturally talented and creative, Roberto believed that everyone can discover and nurture the artist within themselves."

"Roberto Cavalli's legacy will live on via his creativity, his love of nature and via his family who he cherished," it continued.

The company also shared several of Cavalli's inspiring quotes including, "I copy the dress of an animal because I love to copy God. I think God is the most fantastic designer."

PHOTO: Jennifer Lopez and Designer Roberto Cavalli at the Just Cavalli New York Flagship store opening during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2008, Sept. 7, 2007, in New York City. (Larry Busacca/WireImage)

Some of Cavalli's first designs included printed leather gowns and were showcased in 1970, according to Vogue.

His luxury fashion house continued to expand to include everything from statement-making leopard prints to elegantly designed dresses seen everywhere from runways to red carpets. The designer's pieces have been famously worn by notables such as Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Victoria Beckham and many more.

Cavalli's fans, along with his fellow designers, industry insiders and more, expressed sadness at the news of his death this week.

PHOTO: Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli attends his fashion show on late evening, June 10, 2013, in the Montenegrin coastal town of Budva. (Savo Prelevic/AFP via Getty Images)

"I cannot imagine a vision of fashion more distant from mine than that of Roberto Cavalli, yet I have always had enormous respect for him: Roberto was a true artist, wild and wonderful in his use of prints, capable of transforming fantasy into seductive clothes," famed Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani said in a statement.

He added, "I have learnt with great sadness of his passing: his Tuscan verve will be greatly missed."

Roberto Cavalli creative director Fausto Puglisi also shared a tribute, writing in a statement, "Dear Roberto, you may not be physically here with us anymore but I know I will feel your spirit with me always."

He continued, "It is the greatest honour of my career to work under your legacy and to create for the brand you founded with such vision and style. Rest in peace, you will be missed and you are loved by so many that your name will continue on, a beacon of inspiration for others, and especially for me."

Fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has died at 83 originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
***Video above: What is the Miranda Warning?***

BERLIN (AP)  A court in Germany on Wednesday sentenced a 30-year-old man to 13 years in prison for attempted murder for injecting mercury into his 1-year-old daughters foot. The mans girlfriend was sentenced to 12 years in prison for taking part in the crime.

The German news agency dpa reported that the man, from the small town of Springe near the city of Hannover, wanted to take revenge on the childs mother, who had left him shortly after the girls birth.

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According to the indictment, the father and his new girlfriend, knew the poison would not lead directly to death and had wanted to inflict particularly severe pain on the toddler.

After the injection, the daughter got a severe infection in her foot and a rash all over her body. The mercury in her body was only found by chance during a third surgery related to the poisoning, dpa reported.

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Both the father and his 34-year-old girlfriend, initially denied the charge before a court in Hannover but shortly before the trial ended, the couple admitted they together injected the mercury into the girls left foot and right ankle last July, dpa said.

Its unclear where they procured the liquid mercury.

The defendants can appeal the ruling. The names of the defendants and the victim were not released, in line with German privacy policy.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Father of slain 5-year-old wants death penalty for man convicted in Phenix City

Corey Holland Sr. sat in a Russell County courtroom Friday and heard the jury declare his daughters killer guilty for capital murder.

His daughter, Kamarie Holland, was 5 years old when Jeremy Tremaine Williams sexually assaulted and murdered her on Dec. 13, 2021, according to court testimony.

Corey Holland said the guilty verdicts were well deserved. He told the Ledger-Enquirer, Kamarie was too precious for what happened to her.

Holland was in the courtroom Wednesday morning as prosecutors presented evidence, but left before video evidence was shown. The videos were from the body cameras of officers who found Kamaries body, and from Williams cell phone, showing him in the act of some of the offenses he committed.

I couldnt see none of that type of stuff, Holland said.

Some of the testimony he heard Wednesday made him lose sleep, he said.

I honestly want the death penalty for him, said Holland. Kamaries life was way worth more than his life, so, he shouldnt have life period.

Holland said he would be in the courtroom for Williams sentencing hearing Monday, which is when the court will determine if Williams should be sentenced to death.

His life compares nothing to Kamaries, Holland said.

He said it wont be much relief if Williams receives the death penalty, but it would provide some.

Each and every day and night Im going to be missing Kamarie, he said.

Holland said his daughter was loving, caring and sweet, and didnt view anyone as a stranger. She was one of the best big sisters hes seen, even from an early age.

One of the hardest cases

This is one of the hardest cases that the sheriffs office has ever had to investigate, said Russell County Sheriff Heath Taylor, adding it was probably the most difficult to investigate knowing what the child went through.

Taylor said he was happy about the guilty verdict.

Anyone who has children, who have ever been a parent, you just cant imagine that your child had to endure two to three hours of torture, and thats basically what went on here.

I hope they put him to death, Taylor said.

Russell County District Attorney Rick Chancey said the guilty verdict was a relief.

Weve got it done where this man cant hurt someone else again, said Chancey.

Ive seen gory things and Ive seen brutal things, but watching somebody do something like that to a baby is a whole different level of something, Chancey added.

Chancey said hed never get this case out of his mind.

I never met Kamarie while she was alive, and I hate thats how Im going to remember Kamarie, is from that video, Chancey said.
FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (WVNS)  A Fayette County Labor Union Official was sentenced for embezzlement on Friday, April 12, 2024.

50-year-old Jason Todd Weaver, of Mount Hope, was sentenced to five years of parole and ordered to pay $2,896.78 in restitution for embezzlement of funds by an officer of a labor organization.

Fayette County Labor Union official found guilty of embezzlement

According to statements made in court, Weaver used his job as secretary/treasurer of the American Postal Workers Union, Local 1509 to write himself a check for $352.62 from the Local 1509s Beckley bank account on October 29, 2021.

Not only did Weaver sign his name as an authorized account signatory, he also forged the name of a union officer who was an authorized account signatory.

Weaver acknowledged that he knew that the money was not meant for him, however he still put the money into his bank account. He also revealed that using his job with Local 1509 from around April 25, 2016 through November 13, 2021, he embezzled a total of $12,396.78 union funds, issued 17 union checks to himself, and misused the unions credit card 59 times.

UPDATE: Missing Beckley girl found in home of 26-year-old Michigan sex offender

Before he pleaded guilty to embezzlement, he only repaid $9,500 of the $12,396.78.

The announcement was made by United States Attorney Will Thompson, who praised the Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) and the United States Department of Labor for their work on the investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
The FBI is growing increasingly worried about a coordinated attack in the U.S. similar to the recent massacre in Russia at a Moscow concert hall, the bureaus director warned Congress on Thursday.

Speaking to the House Appropriations Committee, Christopher Wray encouraged lawmakers to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which allows the U.S. government to spy on foreigners overseas. As I look back over my career in law enforcement, I would be hard-pressed to think of a time where so many threats to our public safety and national security were so elevated all at once, he said.

U.S. Crime Rate Continued to Drop Last Year, FBI Data Shows

Wray went on to explain how the situation had intensified in the wake of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks in Israel, as a rogues gallery of foreign terrorist organizations have called for attacks against the U.S. and its allies.

Given those calls for action, our most immediate concern has been that individuals or small groups will draw some kind of twisted inspiration from the events in the Middle East to carry out attacks here at home, Wray said. But now, increasingly concerning is the potential for a coordinated attack here in the homeland akin to the ISIS-K attack we saw at the Russia concert hall just a couple weeks ago.

The attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow on March 22 left 145 people dead and hundreds more injured.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the massacre and released footage of the slaughter recorded by one of its fighters, with U.S. officials specifically blaming the Afghanistan-based ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K). Russian President Vladimir Putin and other Russian officials have nevertheless suggested that Ukraine had some kind of role in the attackan accusation Kyiv vehemently denies.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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FBI Director Christopher Wray told the House Appropriations subcommittee on Thursday that there is an increasing concern of a potential coordinated attack in the U.S., similar to the Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISIS-K) attack last month at a concert hall in Russia.

Wray, who spoke before lawmakers to discuss the FY25 budget, said his agency needed additional funding to protect Americans from terrorism, adding that there has been a heightened risk of violence in the U.S. since Hamas-led terrorists invaded Israel on Oct. 7, 2024.

"Since then, weve seen a rogues' gallery of foreign terrorist organizations call for attacks against Americans and our allies," Wray said. "Given those calls for action, our most immediate concern has been that individuals or small groups will draw twisted inspiration from the events in the Middle East to carry out attacks here at home. But now, increasingly concerning, is the potential for a coordinated attack here in the homeland, akin to the ISIS-K attack we saw at the Russia Concert Hall a couple of weeks ago."

On March 22, Moscows Crocus City concert hall was attacked by terrorists, leaving 137 people dead and over 180 wounded. The gunmen who conducted the attack were identified by Russian media as Tajik nationals. After walking in with automatic weapons, the terrorists indiscriminately opened fire on the 6,200-seat venue.

The Islamic States affiliate in Afghanistan, known as ISIS-K, claimed responsibility for the brutal attack.

Wray told members of the Congressional subcommittee that he would be "hard-pressed" to think of a time when so many threats to public safety and national security were all elevated at once, adding that it was the case as he sat before them.

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"This is by no means a time to let up or dial back," he said. "This is a time when we need your support the most. We need all the tools, all the people, and all the resources required to tackle these threats and keep Americans safe."

FBI DIRECTOR WARNS OF ELEVATED' PUBLIC, NATIONAL SAFETY; PUSHES FOR INCREASED FUNDING

FBI Director Christopher Wray

One of the tools is Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which some GOP lawmakers say does not go far enough to safeguard Americans data. In fact, House Speaker Mike Johnson backed a bill to renew the controversial tool set to expire April 19, but over a dozen House GOP privacy hawks blocked the effort.

Wray told the committee the most indispensable tool Congress could give the FBI to fight foreign adversaries was the reauthorization of Section 702.

"It is critical in securing our nation, and we are in crunch time with our 702 authorities set to expire next week," Wray said. "So, let me be clear: Failure to reauthorize 702 or gutting it with some new kind of warrant requirement would be dangerous, and put Americans lives at risk."

HOUSE BRACES FOR BATTLE OVER RENEWING CONTROVERSIAL FISA SURVEILLANCE TOOL

The Islamic States affiliate in Afghanistan, ISIS-K, claimed responsibility for last month's terrorist attack in Russia.

According to the FBI director, Section 702 is crucial to identifying terrorists in the U.S. who are working with foreign terrorist organizations who publicly call for attacks on the country.

The tool helps the FBI find who the terrorists are working with to allow the FBI to stop them before they kill Americans, Wray said.

He also said Section 702 is crucial as China and Iran target Americans, the latter of which is known for kidnappings and assassinations.

The tool also allows the FBI to fend off cyber threats, as well as threats to electricity, water and medical facilities.

Wray said if Congress allows Section 702 to lapse, which it is set to do next week, it will "massively increase the risk of missing crucial intelligence during a time of heightened national security threats across a whole multiple of fronts."

FBI DIRECTOR SAYS CHINESE HACKERS ARE 'POISED TO ATTACK' AS INFILTRATIONS REACH 'FEVER PITCH'

FBI agent in a jacket brandishing the bureau's insignia.

"Now is not the time for us to hang up our gloves, to take away tools we need to punch back. And failing to reauthorize 702 or gutting it with some kind of warrant requirement would be dangerous and put American lives at risk," he said. "I think if FISA were to expire, it adds one more challenge to our ability to secure us from foreign threats, including border-related threats."

"This is not a time for panic; it is a time for heightened vigilance," Wray added.

Among the GOP lawmakers who blocked the bill were: House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good, R-Va.; Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C.; Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo.; Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La.; Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas; and Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont., among others.

The fight has put Johnson in a difficult spot between the House Judiciary Committee and its allies, and the U.S. intelligence community and national security hawks in Congress. The former have cast Section 702 as a tool of exploitation and privacy infringement, while the latter have maintained it's a narrowly-focused tool critical to preventing terror attacks.

Section 702 is a provision that allows the federal government to conduct warrant-less surveillance of a foreign national outside the U.S. if theyre suspected of ties to terrorism  even if the person on the other end of the communications is an American citizen.

The House Judiciary Committee backed an amendment that would force U.S. officials to seek a warrant before querying communications made by an American, which national security-minded Republicans have largely opposed.

One GOP lawmaker compared the amendment's effects to forcing a police officer to seek a warrant before querying a license plate in their database.

They explained that if a suspected terrorist overseas is communicating with a U.S. citizen at home, a Section 702 search would already pick up their specific communications with that U.S. citizen.

The amendment would force authorities to seek a warrant before seeing the contents of that communication, which critics have warned could waste valuable time in the event of a serious threat.

Elizabeth Elkind and Chris Massaro of Fox News Digital contributed to this report.





Original article source: FBI Director Christopher Wray cites increased foreign threats in FISA reauthorization plea: 'Rogues' gallery'
GAZA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- At least 29 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a residential building here Friday, the official news agency WAFA reported.

Dozens of people were injured in the airstrike, said the report, without giving further details.

The Israel Defense Forces said in a statement on Friday that the airforce has attacked more than 60 targets in the Gaza Strip during the past 24 hours. 
Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Christopher Wray speaks during a House Appropriations Committee hearing on the fiscal year 2025 budget request for the FBI. Wray asked Congress to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a measure previously blocked by House Republicans. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

April 11 (UPI) -- FBI Director Christopher Wray warned Congress on Thursday about potential attacks on U.S. soil due to events overseas.

"Our most immediate concern has been that individuals or small groups will draw twisted inspiration from the events in the Middle East to carry out attacks here at home," Wray told the House Appropriations Committee. "But now increasingly concerning is the potential for a coordinated attack here in the homeland, akin to the ISIS-K attack we saw at the Russia Concert Hall a couple weeks ago."

Wray called on Congress to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which sets the framework for the government to collect communications of non-Americans overseas who are using U.S.-based platforms without the use of a warrant.

The effort was defeated by allies of former President Donald Trump Wednesday after Trump urged the GOP to "Kill FISA" in a in a social media post.

Conservative House Republicans are opposed to reauthorizing the measure without an amendment requiring the intelligence community to obtain a warrant to access the data of Americans.

The ACLU and other civil liberties groups have also called for similar reforms, saying Section 702 allows the government to engage in "mass, warrantless surveillance of Americans' and foreigners' phone calls, text messages, emails, and other electronic communications."

Congress voted on a bill on Wednesday, but it didn't include the warrant amendment. Wray testified Thursday to discuss the FBI's budget, which is facing a $500 million decrease. House Republicans have cut the FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies' budgets. Wray asked Congress to fund the agency through 2025.
The head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Dr. Robert Califf, pushed lawmakers on Thursday to pass a bill that would mandate that food manufacturers perform testing for lead in their products that are getting imported into the country from overseas.

Califfs call to action came while he was answering questions from Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), the ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, during the committees Thursday hearing that examined the FDAs response to the baby formula shortage, drug shortages and food safety.

Part of the hearing mentioned the agencys response to lead-contaminated applesauce pouches, during which Califf called for the legislation to be enacted as a way to address the issues.

So you advocated mandatory testing; you would like us to give you that regulatory authority, Raskin asked.

Yes, Califf answered.

What we can do, for example, in food for children is to have the manufacturers be required to do the testing, he continued.

The FDA found elevated levels of lead in six brands of ground cinnamon spice in March, just months after the agency said that Florida-based WanaBana USA had voluntarily recalled three applesauce brands last fall due to elevated levels of lead. The pouches were produced and imported from Ecuador.

The FDA head stated the agency supervises around 275,000 registered manufacturing establishments in the country and overseas, but it commonly is forced to rely on those manufacturers to perform the test themselves since we dont have an unlimited budget.

In the case of cinnamon applesauce, if there had been mandatory testing, when it got imported into the U.S. from Ecuador, the stores that were selling it probably would have picked it up at that point, Califf said Thursday.

And those kids ended up with lead poisoning, right? Raskin asked, which Califf confirmed.

The agency tracks food for lead levels, but the U.S. government does not limit the levels that could be present in products.

In January, a bipartisan group of lawmakers demanded a briefing from the FDA on the lead and chromium contamination of applesauce pouches. The brief was demanded to also discuss if the contamination was intentional.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
BROOKSVILLE, Fla. (WFLA)  The Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued a statewide alert Friday after two Hernando County teenagers went missing.

According to the FDLE, Tayla Barnes, 15, and Lundynn Brooks, 17, were both last seen on Sheriff Mylander Way in Brooksville this past Tuesday.

Tayla was said to be wearing a sweater and blue jeans at the time. Authorities described her as being 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 125 pounds with blonde hair and hazel eyes.

She also may have two tattoos, a roman numeral for 18 (XVII) on her wrist and a flower or hear on her ankle, according to the FDLE.

Authorities said Lundynn, who may also be going by the last name Morales, was wearing a black t-shirt, pink and white camouflage pants, and black boots when she went missing.

She was described as being 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 140 pounds with blonde hair and brown eyes. However, her hair may be dyed pink.

Authorities said if you see the girls, do not approach them. Call the Hernando County Sheriffs Office at 352-754-6830 or 911

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
A federal appeals panel on Friday appeared skeptical of arguments defending New Jerseys controversial primary ballot design as judges weigh whether it should be used for the June primary.

The U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals panel questioned attorneys on both sides during two hours of oral arguments on whether to keep in place a preliminary injunction from a lower court judge. That preliminary injunction eliminates the states unique primary ballot design  known as the county line  for only this year's primary election and requires office block ballots be used. Only Democratic primary ballots and not GOP primary ballots are subject to the preliminary injunction.

The county line refers to New Jerseys ballot design where county party-backed candidates are placed more prominently on primary ballots, appearing in a single column or row. Candidates who receive the favored ballot positioning have been shown to have a nearly insurmountable advantage, according to studies. Office block ballots group candidates together by the office they are seeking.

New Jersey is the only state in the country that uses the county line primary ballot design, a fact mentioned several times by the three-judge panel. Bill Tambussi, an attorney for the Camden County Democrats which is spearheading the current appeal, argued in legal briefs that office-block ballots do not protect the constitutional rights of political party organizations  an argument justices appeared skeptical of.

By extension, wouldn't you be arguing that the elections that are taking place in 49 of the 50 states around the country are unconstitutional? Judge Arianna Freeman asked Tambussi.

Judge, I'm not gonna offer an opinion on the ballot in other states, Tambussi replied.

Judge Cheryl Ann Krause quickly added: It seems to me that if not allowing bracketing  is unconstitutional, then 49 out of 50 states are doing something severely wrong.

The legal challenge against the line is brought forth by Democrats Rep. Andy Kim  who is running for Senate this year  and two underdog House candidates, Sarah Schoengood and Carolyn Rush. The federal appeals panel earlier this month declined to pause the preliminary injunction as the fast-tracked appeal is pending.

Kims lawsuit named 19 county clerks in the state as defendants. None of them are continuing to appeal the preliminary injunction, leaving the Camden County Democratic Committee  which intervened in the lawsuit  as the only appellant left.

Throughout the lawsuit, county clerks and the Camden Democrats have invoked the Purcell principle, a U.S. Supreme Court precedent that generally advises courts to not change election rules close to an election so as not to cause confusion among voters.

Judge Kent Jordan asked Tambussi whether the Purcell principle now worked against him since county clerks are moving forward with the office-block ballot for the Democratic primary. While many county clerks initially appealed the preliminary injunction, none of them are appealing it anymore.

Now, you seem to be saying, no, make them go back," Jordan said. "Isn't that contrary to Purcell? Aren't you actually asking us to do something which is exactly the opposite of what you asked us to do a week ago?

Tambussi responded saying that the county line has been in place for decades while the office-block ballot order came in late March.

Another key argument from Tambussi was that political parties have the right to endorse and associate with candidates, which Jordan said was not the issue being debated.

Nobody is arguing that you can't endorse, he said. Nobody's arguing that you can't sloganeer. Nobody's arguing you can't come out hard for somebody that you like and talk down somebody you don't like. The only question is, are you allowed to do that on a ballot? Can you force that kind of advocacy on to the ballot?

Camden Democrats were not the only political party defending the line during the hearing. Matt Moench, a GOP attorney, defended the line on behalf of the New Jersey Republican Chairs Association and Sean Marotta represented the Middlesex County Democrats, one of the states most prominent political machines.

Brett Pugach argued on behalf of Kim. Ryan Haygood, president & CEO of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, also spoke before the court while representing other groups against the line, such as the League of Women Voters' New Jersey chapter.

"Something I was encouraged by is that the judges seem to have a good command of the record, and the record is something that's really important in this case," Pugach told reporters after the hearing. "Because the district court found that there were really severe burdens that the county line imposes upon candidates. [It] has implications on voters as well, too. It's really a fundamental democracy issue."

The Third Circuit judges are expected to decide within days whether to keep the preliminary injunction in place, with Jordan concluding the arguments saying a decision would be made promptly. The clock is ticking with several election deadlines looming; for example, mail ballots must start to go out by April 20.

And a lawsuit filed in state court seeks an injunction on office-block ballots for the Republican primary. The state judge in that case is expected to decide on that matter Monday afternoon.
The Thomas F. Eagleton Federal Courthouse in St. Louis, where the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments on Thursday, April 11, 2024, in a case involving an Arkansas law banning gender-affirming care for minors. The state is appealing a federal district judge's ruling that declared the ban unconstitutional and discriminatory. (Debra Chandler Landis/Arkansas Advocate)

ST. LOUIS  Federal appeals court judges here on Thursday heard legal counsel for the national ACLU and the U.S. Department of Justice argue that transgender minors have a constitutional right to gender-affirming care, while Arkansas deputy solicitor general said a state law prohibiting such care was in the best interest of youth and not discriminatory.

At issue is the 2021 Save Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act, which bans physicians from providing gender transition treatments like hormones, puberty blockers and sex reassignment surgeries to individuals under age 18.

Four Arkansas families and two physicians, represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas, challenged the SAFE Act in federal court, where U.S. District Judge James Moody struck down the law in June 2023, saying, among other things, that the SAFE Act discriminated against transgender people and violated the U.S. Constitutions First and Fourteenth Amendments.

Arkansas Deputy Solicitor General Dylan Jacobs

Arkansas Deputy Solicitor General Dylan Jacobs (second from left) and Senior Assistant Attorney General Amanda Land (third from left) leave the federal courthouse in Little Rock after the conclusion of the trial over Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care for minors in December. (John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate)

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin appealed that decision in July 2023 to the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The state has argued there is no scientific evidence that children benefit from gender-affirming care and that the consequences can be harmful and often permanent for them.

Asked by the appeals judges whether the state law would ban health care providers from prescribing testosterone for conditions other than gender-affirming care treatment, Dylan Jacobs, Arkansas deputy solicitor general, said, The statute does not prohibit that. The legislature wasnt saying it has problems with testosterone.

Regarding the district courts ruling to strike down the ban on transgender care in Arkansas, Jacobs said there are certainly risks, including sterilization in the treatment, and noted it was not up to the district court to impose its own policy judgments.

ACLU attorney Chase Strangio, deputy director for the organizations LGBTQ & HIV Project, told the appeals court Thursday they should uphold Moodys ruling, noting, in part, that the state law undermines constitutional guarantees of equal protection and supplants the judgment of parents and their abilities to determine medical care.

Griffin has said his office is fighting to protect our states children from dangerous medical experimentation. Moody, in his 80-page ruling striking the Arkansas law, affirmed the testimony of medical experts who said in their testimony for the plaintiffs that gender-affirming care is safe for minors.

The State of Arkansas, Moody wrote, failed to prove that its interests in the safety of Arkansas adolescents from gender transitioning procedures or the medical communitys ethical decline are compelling, genuine, or even rational.

In 2021, a letter from the American Medical Association to the National Governors Association referenced the Arkansas SAFE Act and said, in part: Arkansas recently enacted SAFE Act and similar bills pending in several other states would insert the government into clinical decision-making and force physicians to disregard clinical guidelines.

Gender-affirming care for minors, the AMA said, must be sensitive to the childs clinical situation, nurture the childs short and long-term development, and balance the need to preserve the childs opportunity to make important life choices autonomously in the future.

The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals did not indicate when it might rule on the Arkansas law.

As of last November, similar laws had been enacted in 22 states, and legal challenges have been mounted in several of them. The U.S. Supreme Court has not yet taken up any of those cases.

The post Federal court hears oral arguments in SAFE Act appeal appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
Military spouses working for federal agencies may soon find it easier to take their jobs with them when their families move overseas.

Pentagon and State Department officials on April 17 are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding that will remove many of the barriers to remote work overseas for military spouses, Sheila Casey, executive director of Joining Forces, said Tuesday at a conference hosted by the Association of Defense Communities. Joining Forces is a White House initiative to support military families.

The memorandum aims to improve the Domestic Employees Teleworking Overseas (DETO) program, as required by President Joe Bidens June 2023 executive order outlining steps to enhance economic prospects for military and veterans spouses, caregivers and survivors.

The policy change will address many of the State Departments concerns about residential security requirements for federal employees working overseas, Casey said. If successful, the update would expand military spouses opportunities to earn income and avoid massive work-related expenses they may incur when trying to telework from abroad.

All federal employees are prohibited from teleworking overseas without approval from their agency and the State Department. But a number of military spouses who have moved overseas on permanent change-of-station orders have been denied the ability to work for a federal agency overseas under the DETO program, or have seen those agreements rescinded  costing tens of thousands of dollars in lost wages.

Were cautiously optimistic that this will be a step in the right direction, said Sue Hoppin, founder and president of the National Military Spouse Network, which has advocated for changes to the DETO program for years. We all know that removing the barriers to military spouses working overseas wont involve just any one solution. Wed be interested in seeing more data.

For example, Hoppin said, will the change result in more military spouses being granted the ability to telework overseas?

We hope that agencies will start tracking this type of information so we can start identifying some best practices, she said.

Some spouses previously interviewed by Military Times have said military families were told to foot the bill for security requirements for federal telework overseas, such as bomb- and shatter-proof glass, specific door locks and an alarm system to notify the State Department if there is a break-in. One spouse said she spent $15,000 on required security upgrades.

Its unclear what the guidelines are for when an agency pays for required security upgrades to a residence, or whether the memorandum will address the issue.

Its unclear how many military spouses would be affected by the upcoming policy change. Some spouses have told Military Times they estimate that group numbers in the hundreds.

The federal government has sought to remedy the myriad issues that complicate military spouse employment through a number of initiatives.

The Defense Department, which provides a range of education and employment resources for its approximately 580,000 active duty military spouses, has funded the Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot, a 12-week program in which DOD pays the stipends of military spouses at civilian employers who may offer them a full-time job at the end of the fellowship.

In 2023, the first year of the three-year pilot program, more than 400 spouses were placed into fellowships, said Liz OBrien, executive director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundations Hiring Our Heroes, which administers the program for DOD. Eighty-five percent of the spouses were offered employment by their sponsor company.

Another 200 spouses have been placed into fellowships in the first quarter of 2024, OBrien said at the Association of Defense Communities conference.

Citing early indicators of its success, congressional lawmakers now recommend expanding the fellowship program and making it permanent as part of a slate of military quality-of-life improvements proposed by the House Armed Services Committee panel on Thursday. The proposal notes that the average salary offered by employers as a result of the 2023 fellowships exceeded $65,500.

Local communities are important to the success of the spouse employment effort, OBrien said, and encouraged businesses to apply to participate in the fellowship program.
A fight over college textbook prices is leaving students unsure who to believe about costs

President Joe Biden's crusade against so-called "junk fees" is on its way to college campuses, and some of the pushback is fierce.

Some university leaders say a planned change to an Obama-era regulation could raise prices on textbooks and other course materials for students nationwide. Publishers are in a panic, accusing the Biden administration of upending a pricing model theyve spent years perfecting to offer affordable digital materials to millions of students on the first day of class.

Backed by consumer advocates, Education Department officials see it differently. They argue the model currently favored by colleges and textbook companies is akin to automatic billing and leaves out vulnerable students. The Biden administration says its just trying to give college students more say in the ever-mounting fees listed on their bills.

Some students and professors are worried the effort will backfire. Others are happy to have more control over their college costs. Its unclear exactly how the change, which could take effect next year, will affect students bank accounts. But the implications will likely depend on how publishers react, the types of colleges students attend and their own individual financial situations.

The disagreement has played out in recent months in a sometimes-contentious federal rulemaking process. It highlights a key part of Bidens strategy to curb college costs: the president has told his advisors that making higher education more affordable must be an accessory to the billions of dollars in student loan forgiveness hes approved. As with their debt cancellation efforts, federal officials are pushing the change through on their own, avoiding Congress altogether.

"The Biden-Harris Administration will continue its efforts to make higher education more affordable and accessible, as well as to eliminate hidden, surprise, and junk fees and put cash back in the pockets of Americans," the White House said in a March statement.

President Joe Biden speaks at an April 8 event in Wisconsin touting his student debt relief efforts.

Unlike other components of Bidens campaign to reduce the financial burden of higher education, the debate over how to fairly set costs for college course materials, including textbooks, has a long history. Examples of schools abusing their pricing power is part of the rationale the administration is using.

Read more: Colleges charge tons of junk fees for food and books. Biden may force them to scale back.

Yet as federal officials mull over a final version of the rule, a messaging war has broken out between colleges, publishers and the government. It's leaving some students without a clear sense of whether prices will rise or fall in the coming years.

Its easy in these conversations to assume that what is good for some students is good for all students, said Nicole Allen, a college affordability advocate who supports the administrations proposal. Students are not a monolith.

What is inclusive access?

In the decade between 2006 and 2016, college textbook prices ballooned by 88%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Hoping to repress the trend, the Obama administration approved a regulation allowing colleges and universities to charge students for course materials as part of their tuition and fees. Some affordability advocates scoffed at the change, later arguing the Education Department effectively eliminated competing textbook markets. Supporters have said the rule ultimately helped bring costs down.

The regulation had a few caveats. Schools needed to work with publishers to offer materials at below competitive market rates," a threshold critics say was not well defined. And colleges had to give students the choice to opt out of the program.

Over the next few years, the controversial (but widely used) term inclusive access took hold as the pricing model became more widespread. Many colleges worked with textbook publishers to create digital textbooks that students could access on the first day of class. Schools then tacked the bills for those course materials onto students overall fees.

Bill Hoover, a science professor at Bunker Hill Community College in Massachusetts, said it was a game-changer. The textbook companies his school works with developed interactive platforms his students could use to quiz themselves. They performed virtual cadaver dissections. Some of them opted out of the program. But when they did, they usually regretted it, he said.

Hes anxious those resources could become far more costly.

Its the only way to guarantee that everybody completes the course on equal footing, said Aspassia Akylas, a 28-year-old nursing major at Bunker Hill. I dont really see why any other alternatives would be beneficial.

A euphemism for automatic billing, critics say

Proponents of the Biden administrations efforts said inclusive access is more accurately described as a euphemism for automatic billing, which is typically a red flag to consumer protection advocates.

If a business is engaged in automatic billing for a product or service, that usually is a tip that the product or service is not all that its cracked up to be, said Carolyn Fast, the director of higher education policy at The Century Foundation, a progressive think tank.

Opponents, meanwhile, accused the Education Department of tuning out the people who could be most affected by the new rule.

The Department of Education just seems to be ignoring critical testimony from faculty, students and administrators, said Kelly Denson, senior vice president at the Association of American Publishers, which represents the major textbook companies.

Yet students seem divided on the proposal, with many pushing hard for it to become the new normal.

Joel Sadofsky, a junior at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, spoke before a government panel earlier this year, applauding the Education Department for giving students more choice. In an op-ed for his school newspaper published in February, he argued an inclusive access program touted by administrators had the potential to hurt students' wallets.

The Department of Education needs to work hard to reign in the power of these textbook vendors, he told USA TODAY.

The federal government is expected to finalize the rule by November, although any changes likely wouldn't take effect until next summer.

Zachary Schermele covers education and breaking news 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: Biden wants to curb textbook fees. Publishers warn it may backfire.
ROME (Reuters) - Italian rescuers have found the bodies of the last two missing workers from an explosion at a hydroelectric plant near Bologna three days ago, a spokesperson for the fire brigade said on Friday, bringing the final death toll to seven.

On Tuesday, a fire that broke out on a transformer and the subsequent blast rocked the plant on the shores of the artificial Lake Suviana, owned by Enel Green Power, a unit of utility group Enel.

The explosion has heightened concerns by trade unions about workplace safety in Italy, where over 1,000 people lost their lives while working last year, according to a report by the country's national workers' compensation authority INAIL.

Divers recovered the bodies from the ruins of a turbine hall some nine levels -- 40 metres or so -- below the lake.

Rescue efforts were interrupted in the late morning of Friday after the last corpses were found, the spokesperson added.

The cause of the accident has not been established and Italian prosecutors have launched an investigation, as is mandatory in such cases.

(Reporting by Giulia Segreti; Editing by Gianluca Semeraro and Peter Graff)
Fire breaks out at energy facility in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast after downed Russian drone falls

The Russians targeted energy infrastructure in various oblasts of Ukraine on the night of 11-12 April. Ukraines air defence shot down seven loitering munitions (aka Shahed attack drones) in the south: four in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and one each in Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa oblasts.

Source: Defence Forces of Ukraines South

Details: A fire broke out at an energy facility in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast after a downed drone fell. It was contained, and firefighters continued to work.

The intense combat work of Ukraines air defence forces in the south lasted about five hours.

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He Yuyue (L) takes photo of her father He Jielin and tourists at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin (R) poses for photo with his wife (L) and daughter at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 28, 2023. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin (R) shows the traditional skills of making tofu to a tourist at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 25, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin (L) introduces old items to tourists at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

He Yuyue (L) introduces Naxi ethnic group's Dongba paper to a tourist at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

An aerial drone photo taken on March 25, 2024 shows the Yulong Snow Mountain and Yuhu village in Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Yuyue (R) serves tea for tourists at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

He Jielin (front) shows tourists the layout of his yard in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

He Jielin puts on traditional costumes of Naxi ethnic group at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 25, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin writes in Dongba pictograph at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 25, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin (2nd R) guides tourists around Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Yuyue (R) helps a tourist put on traditional costume of Naxi ethnic group at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin (L) talks with a tourist wearing costumes of Naxi ethnic group in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 25, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin guides tourists to his home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

He Jielin (2nd L), and his daughter He Yuyue (1st L) introduce Naxi ethnic culture to tourists at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

He Yuyue (L) introduces old items to a tourist at home in Yuhu village, Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 27, 2024. Living in Yuhu village at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain, He Jielin has witnessed the changes in this ancient Naxi village.

From the 1980s to 1990s, He Jielin and his wife could only live off the land. Like other villagers, the couple made a living by cutting wood, picking medicinal materials and digging sand, which resulted in great damages to the forest and the environment. However, people in the village remained poor.

In 2004, as the village started to develop tourism, He Jielin began to raise horses and cattle, founded home inns, and gradually, his living condition was improved.

In June 2020, He Jielin renovated his old residence, turning it into the village's first museum on Naxi ethnic culture. Tourists were attracted to his museum to experience various activities related with local culture.

After studying in South Korea, He Jielin's daughter He Yuyue also joined the family business, running the museum together with his father.

"My father knows a lot about the Naxi ethnic culture, which attracted many tourists. I am also learning hard, so that I could spread the culture just like my father," said He Yuyue. Meanwhile, she also shares her daily life on social media in an effort to attract more young visitors.

Currently, the cultural museum of He's family has become a must-see attraction for tourists at Yuhu village. The father and the daughter hope they can earn 300,000 yuan (about 41,452 U.S. dollars) this year. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WJW)  State fire investigators have ruled six fires reported in Cuyahoga and Lake counties within a two-week span last month were intentionally set.

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshals Fire and Explosion Investigation Bureau is now seeking tips and leads from the public.

Former Strongsville football coach indicted on sex charges involving minors at West Geauga schools

The first of the six fires ruled to be arson was reported just before 11 a.m. in a vacant field in the 2000 block of Loganberry Drive in Richmond Heights, according to the release.

Over the next several days, through Sunday, March 24, five vehicles were set on fire in Willoughby Hills, Richmond Heights and Beachwood, according to the release. No injures were reported.

Investigators believe the fires are connected. The Blue Ribbon Arson Committee is now offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest or conviction. Tipsters can call the State Fire Marshals tip line at 800-589-2728.

This beautiful bird is no longer a threatened species in Ohio

Investigators are particularly interested in photos or video from home security or doorbell cameras or witnesses who were near the scenes when the fires happened.

Anyone who remembers a similar fire within that two-week span that has not yet been reported is urged to reach out to investigators.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  A lawsuit against the City of Mobile moved to a bench trial after a group of Mobile Fire-Rescue firefighters accused the city of a disproportionate pay gap between themselves and Mobile Police officers.

UPDATE: Attorneys for Jawan Dallas family respond to Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine being placed on administrative leave

The International Association of Firefighters, a union representing Mobile Fire Rescue, filed a lawsuit in June 2022. The union said the city broke state law that requires firefighters and police officers to be on the same pay plan.

Theres a parity clause in there that states that you pay the firemen the same that you pay the policemen, Jimmy Connick, a Mobile Fire Rescue captain, said.

That same law, according to the city, allows the Mobile County Personnel Board to approve employee incentives based on specific skills.

The Mobile Police Departments website listed an officers starting salary at $43,644 per year, while the Mobile County Personnel Board quoted an MFRD starting salary of the same amount.

Unlike the fire department, MPDs website showed that rookie officers make an extra $5,200 in incentives upon completion and graduation from the police academy.

That incentive, according to Public Safety Director Robert Lasky, was an effort to boost retention and recruiting numbers within the police department. Lasky said the personnel board approved the incentive.

If you look at the numbers, I believe it helped, Lasky said. The attrition rate for the fire department has been less than the police department as of two years ago. Thats one of the reasons this incentive was provided.

Connick said the fire department and police department have enjoyed equal pay for 80 years, until now.

Just in the past two years has this struggle become real, Connick said.

Connick said Mobile Fire Rescue ranks among the top nine fire departments in the United States, which is even more reason to offer more incentives to firefighters.

Were always receptive of any type of offer from the city, Connick said. Well be happy when this is over.

Mobile man arrested after drugs, gun found after fleeing traffic stop: Police

The bench trial is scheduled for June 11.

In the meantime, Lasky said the city will continue to look for ways to even the playing field between the fire department and police department.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
There is a new Black head of state in Europe. Wales, one of four countries comprising the United Kingdom, recently selected Vaughan Gething as its first minister, the highest position in the Welsh Parliament. The election is a first for Wales, the U.K., and it is believed to be history-making for all of Europe.

Gething, whose father is from Wales and whose mother is from Zambia, recently defeated Welsh Education Minister and fellow Labour Party member Jeremy Miles in a close party vote to take over the role of Welsh First Minister, the highest position in the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament. The promotion became official in late March after First Minister Mark Drakeford stepped down, and Gething took his place with the approval of King Charles III.

Today, we turn a page in the book of our nations history. A history we write together, Gething said to his party colleagues in March after winning the vote to become their leader. Not just because I have the honour of becoming the first Black leader in any European country, but because the generational dial has jumped too.

Gething is the son of a white Welsh father and a Black Zambian mother. He was born in Zambia, but his family moved to the U.K. when he was 2, growing up in Wales and England. In 2011, he became a member of the Senedd. He served as health minister for Wales during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now the economic minister. Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland comprise the United Kingdom. Despite its distinct culture and language, Wales has been dominated politically by England for centuries. In 1999, Wales received semi-autonomous status within the United Kingdom with the creation of its legislature. Gething will only be the fifth person to serve as first minister of Wales.

As Gething and others have noted, his appointment likely makes him the first Black person to lead any European country. While some have speculated that Englands Queen Charlotte  the wife of King George III and mother of King George IV  had African ancestry, such speculation has never been proven. Gethings appointment reflects the growing diversity in the U.K. and its government. Three of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom are now led by non-white politicians, and the fourth, Northern Ireland, is currently led by two women who occupy equal roles.

Gethings appointment thus marks an important step for Wales, the United Kingdom and all of Europe, while building on a growing diversity within the leadership of the continent.

I believe the Wales of today and the future will be owned by all those decent people who recognize that our Parliament and our government should look like our country, Gething said in a recent speech, even as his appointment brings that belief a bit closer to reality.
Iryna Halai has ascended Annapurna mountain (8,091m height) in the morning of 12 April together with Nepalese guide Mingma. Annapurna is considered one of the most dangerous eight-thousander mountains in the world (with a mortality rate of 22% over all years of climbers' ascents).

Source: Champion

Details: This was Iryna's first mountain expedition during the full-scale war. She has dedicated her ascent to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who are currently fighting for the existence of Ukrainians and to the 60,000 Ukrainian women serving there. Iryna herself spent the first months of the war as part of the Mukachevo Territorial Defence Forces.

Quote: "I got to know Arm Women Now [a Ukrainian volunteer project] at the beginning of the war when I was in the Territorial Defence Forces. I sold my pink ice axe with rhinestones at an auction and with the proceeds (200,000 hryvnias) [approximately US$5,100], and we started collaborating with this organisation, creating the first female uniform for the Armed Forces. Currently, over 60,000 women serve in the Armed Forces, which is an impressive number even by NATO standards. These women are my heroes. Their courage, beauty, boldness and character enchant me. They are incredible! I dedicate this ascent to them and my country, which is currently fighting for its existence."

More details: Halai is now descending from the summit with the Nepalese climber Mingma, so there is currently no communication with her. Iryna has become the first Ukrainian woman to climb an eight-thousander mountain (there are only 14 peaks in the world with a height of over 8,000m) this season.

"I have a flag with me with the Arm Women Now organisation logo," Halai told Maksym Rosenko via satellite communication from the base camp just before the final stage of the ascent to Annapurna. "I took this flag because Annapurna is considered a feminine mountain. Complex and serious, it is considered the most dangerous mountain in the world. It has a character similar to that of Ukrainian military women. They never allow unnecessary people to be near them. They are difficult to subdue. And they destroy everyone who approaches them with bad intentions."

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George Riley

While family, friends, and law enforcement searched last week for George Riley Jr., the missing executive director of the Republican Party of Florida, Riley had checked himself into a Lake Buena Vista spa.

According to an Osceola County Sheriffs report, released to the USA TODAY Network-Florida this week, Riley was found last Friday at the B Resort and Spa, three days after he was reported missing. He was in good health but under the influence of alcohol, the report said.

Earlier in the week, Riley had been evicted from the Kissimmee Hampton Inn after a four-day stay for excessive drinking" and damage to the room. Riley didn't object when told he would be charged extra because the room needing a deep cleaning.

The day before, Rileys family had filed a missing person report with law enforcement. Deputies were advised that Riley had a medical condition and had never gone so long without communication. The medical condition and medication Riley takes were redacted in the released report.

Deputies used cell tower pings to triangulate Rileys phone location, according to the report. When found at the B Resort and Spa, deputies said although Riley was under the influence of alcohol, he was not erratic, posed no threat to harm himself or others, and answered questions.

They then informed his family he was no longer a missing person and closed the case.

George Riley was recently named executive director of the Florida GOP

The 43-year-old Riley was appointed executive director of the Republican Party in February, a position he previously held 2016-19.

In the 2018 election cycle, Riley put into place a voter registration initiative called "Project Majority Red" that flipped ten counties from Democratic to Republican majorities, news reports show. He also directed the spending of more than $85 million on statewide campaigns.

In a phone call with the Tampa Bay Times, Riley apologized for going missing and trashing the hired room: Im deeply sorry. I have been dealing with alcoholism and mental health issues, he said, according to the Times.

Riley specifically apologized to the Hampton Inn staff for his behavior, promised to pay any damages, and pledged to seek help so he can be a better father, a better person and a better all-around employee.

James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com and is on X as @CallTallahassee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida GOP director found at resort, says he's 'deeply sorry'
The father of a 20-year-old Florida man who leaped from the 11th floor of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship 57 miles from shore last week believes his "master diver" son is still alive, according to a report.

Francel Parker told the Daily Sun that his son, Levion Parker, works on a commercial fishing boat and said that he had multiple flotation devices thrown down to him on April 4.

"As soon as he went off the side, I prayed over him," the dad told the outlet. "I was confident the prayers I said over my son were heard. I stand on the word of God. I believe he is alive."

The U.S. Coast Guard called off their search in Cuban waters for the missing 20-year-old on Tuesday, a spokesperson for the U.S. Coast Guard 7th District Public Affairs Team confirmed. The 18-level ship was just hours away from port in Fort Lauderdale after four days sailing between Cuba and the Bahamas Grand Inagua Island when Levion jumped around 4 a.m.

SOUTH CAROLINA MAN VANISHES FROM CRUISE AFTER GETTING OFF AT POPULAR PORT OF COZUMEL, MEXICO

Levion Parker leaped from the 11th floor of the Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas on April 4. His father believes that he is still alive.

There were reports of an argument before Levion jumped, according to the Sun, but his father told the outlet that he had not been arguing with his son beforehand. Levion's father said his son had alcohol on the ship but that it was not a suicide, the Sun reported.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"We don't drink. I'd like to know how my son was served so much alcohol," the elder Parker told the outlet.

The minimum age for drinking on a Royal Caribbean cruise departing from the U.S. or Caribbean is 21. The company could not immediately be reached for comment on how Parker was served.

Another passenger on the Liberty of the Seas cruise told the New York Post that Parker's dad confronted the 20-year-old and his 18-year-old brother, Seth, after they'd gotten out of the ship's hot tub.

"His dad was fussing at him for being drunk, I guess," Bryan Sims told the outlet. "When we got to them, he said to his dad, 'I'll fix this right now.' And he jumped out the window in front of us all."

SEARCH FOR MISSING SOUTH CAROLINA CRUISE PASSENGER COMPLICATED BY JUNGLE TERRAIN AS FAMILY DEMANDS US HELP

Levion Parker's interests include deep sea fishing and hunting, his Instagram shows.

Sims told the Post he had been chatting with the Parker brothers before Levion jumped overboard, remarking that the older brother was "pretty drunk." He said that Levion spoke of his jobs on yachts and fishing vessels.

Deborah Morrison, another passenger, told the Post that "there was a lot of yelling, and the crew was alerted immediately" after Levion jumped.

"His family was horrified, just beside themselves," she told the outlet. "I can't even begin to imagine what they're going through."

"The ship was moving pretty fast because it was during the night, and we were traveling a long distance," Sims recalled to the Post. "We were screaming and his dad was calling everyone to stop the ship Lots of crew were up top and they started launching the smaller boats to search after we got turned around and back to the area I'm assuming."

CRUISE SHIP STRANDED IN SPANISH PORT RESUMES SAILING AFTER REMOVAL OF PASSENGERS WITH VISA PROBLEMS

Royal Caribbean told the Post in a statement that the ship's crew "immediately launched a search and rescue effort alongside the U.S. Coast Guard, who has taken over the search."

The next morning was "somber," passenger Amy Phelps Fouse told the Post.

"So many people came out of their cabins to stare at the sea, hoping to be able to aid in finding the person," she said.

Parker's father owns an air conditioning business, and the family was on the cruise as guests of Florida-based air conditioning wholesaler Tropic Supply, the Daily Mail reported. Dozens of their contractors had been invited onto the cruise for the company's 50th anniversary.

About 386 people were reported to have gone overboard on major cruise lines between 2000 and 2020, according to The Washington Post. A study by Cruise Lines International Association found that only 28% of those who fell overboard between 2009 and 2019 survived.





Original article source: Florida man believes son is alive after jumping off cruise ship: report
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A female officer is recovering after she was shot at a gun range in Florida earlier this week.

According to the Village of Pinecrest Police Department, one of their officers was shot in the forearm during a pre-scheduled training exercise.

2nd suspect arrested in shooting near Armature Works

According to NBC affiliate WTVJ, the woman was shot by another female officer at the Homestead Training Center, located on Southwest 304th Street. Surrounding officers applied a tourniquet and rushed her to a nearby hospital. The shooting was believed to be accidental.

A former Miami Police Chief told WTVJ that the tarps, held up by barrels, acted as a tight, enclosed space to mimic tight entries officers may have to deal with in a real situation. But even with measures in place, accidents can happen.

The woman was initially taken to one hospital but had to be airlifted to another facility. Officials said she has since been released from the hospital and is expected to fully recover.

Missing Florida woman found dead in torched SUV after possible carjacking: sheriff

In a statement from the department, officials said, She is very much looking forward to recovering and getting back to what she loves mostPolicing.

Police said the shooting is being investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. They did not release any further details.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Florida teen dies from gunshot wound after friends ran from shooting without helping him: police

Florida teen dies from gunshot wound after friends ran from shooting without helping him: police

A Florida police chief blasted the "friends" of a teenager who died from a gunshot wound after he said they ran from the scene of the shooting without offering help to the victim or law enforcement.

Sadarion Cosby, 17, died at HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital on Tuesday night after he was shot in the abdomen during an altercation in the city of Sanford, a suburb of Orlando.

Cosby was struck after shots rang out when he and three unidentified people approached a parked car near the intersection of Ellen Place and Scott Drive at around 8 p.m. on Tuesday, according to Sanford police. It's unclear who was inside the vehicle.

The vehicle and two of the three people with Cosby "immediately" fled the area after gunfire erupted, Sanford police said.

WOMAN ALLEGEDLY WENT ON FLORIDA HIGHWAY SHOOTING SPREE DIRECTED BY GOD IN RELATION TO THE SOLAR ECLIPSE

Sadarion Cosby, 17, died at a Florida hospital Tuesday night after he was shot in the abdomen during an altercation outside a parked car in Sanford, Florida.

Police said one of the people with Cosby helped him get to a nearby house before running off. Cosby was then driven to the hospital, where he died not long after arrival, by the occupants of the home.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

On Wednesday, Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith described the incident that resulted in Cosby's death as "unacceptable."

"A seventeen-year-old lost his life. His friends, and I use that term loosely, ran rather than staying and helping him," Smith said in a news release. "They didnt help him get the emergency medical attention he needed, nor stay to assist law enforcement identify and locate the person(s) who took his life. Unacceptable."

FLORIDA STRIP CLUB SURVEILLANCE VIDEO SHOWS POINT-BLANK SHOOTING, 2 ARRESTED AFTER HELICOPTER CHASE

Sanford police said on Wednesday the vehicle Cosby and his friends approached the night before appeared to be a dark-colored  possibly black or blue  Kia K-5 sedan.

Authorities are working to locate that car and whoever was inside it when Cosby was shot.

Sanford police said the vehicle of interest in Cosby's death is a dark-colored Kia K-5 sedan.

Sanford police are also looking for the three people who were with Cosby. When talking to the local media on Wednesday, Bianca Gillett, a spokesperson for the police department, was hesitant to describe them as friends because of how the situation played out.

"They chose to run and worry about themselves instead of assisting him and getting immediate medical attention, and then sticking around and assisting us with the investigation," Gillett said. "to have people that were clearly close with him not care enough to help us find the person who took his life last night. It's challenging and it's heartbreaking at the same time."

Police in Sanford heavily criticized the three people Cosby was with when he was shot after learning they ran from the scene instead of ensuring he received medical attention.

Though many details on what transpired Tuesday night were not available, Gillett did say that investigators are working through surveillance footage submitted by people in the area.

Anyone with information on the shooting, the car or the people involved can call the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at 800-423-8477. Tips can be called in to Crimeline anonymously and could be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000 if the information solves the case.





Original article source: Florida teen dies from gunshot wound after friends ran from shooting without helping him: police
A former cop yelled 'charge' on Jan. 6. How his Supreme Court case could help Trump.

WASHINGTON  Joseph Fischer was driving home to central Pennsylvania after attending then-President Donald Trump's "Stop the Steal" rally on Jan. 6, 2021, when he heard about the crowd swelling outside the Capitol and turned around.

Fischer, who was a police officer in North Cornwall Township, thought the day might turn violent. He had warned he might be jailed. Standing outside the East Rotunda doors at 3:24 p.m., Fischer turned on his phone's video recorder and yelled: "Charge!"

Fischer was among hundreds of people  including Trump  charged with obstruction for interrupting Congress as it certified President Joe Biden's victory.

Fischer is now asking the Supreme Court to overturn the obstruction charge, in an appeal that could affect one-fourth of the Jan. 6 defendants. The high court will hear arguments on April 16. The case could have big implications for Trump's election interference case.

The justices were asked to interpret an obstruction law Congress approved after the Enron scandal in 2002. Fischer contends that law aimed to punish the destruction of documents. But prosecutors called it a catchall that covers the obstruction of official meetings.

Joseph Fischer, right, is seen in photos that were part of an FBI arrest warrant. Joseph Fischer, a former police officer in central Pennsylvania, faces seven charges including disorderly conduct and impeding police officers in the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. His trial has been on hold since his arrest in February 2021 while he asks the Supreme Court to rule on whether one of the statutes behind an obstruction charge applies to him. More than one in four of the Jan. 6 defendants  including former President Donald Trump  were charged under the same obstruction statute, so the case could have wide-ranging impact.

1 in 4 defendants from Jan. 6 riot were charged with obstructing Congress

The case could have a big impact on other Jan. 6 defendants. About 330 of the first 1,265 defendants in the attack were charged under the law, according to the Justice Department.

Another Jan. 6 defendant, Thomas Robertson, has challenged a different facet of the same law. Like Fischer, he lost an appeal. Robertsons potential appeal to the Supreme Court is on hold while he waits for the justices to decide Fischers case.

But government lawyers led by Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar argued the obstruction law a "catchall that should cover Fischers conduct because he allegedly joined a violent riot with the purpose of disrupting a joint session of Congress convened to certify the election results."

Some Jan. 6 prisoners win early release while appealing cases for same charge as Fischer

Judges have already begun ordering the early release of Jan. 6 prisoners while they appeal the same charge as Fischer, rather than risk having them spend more time than warranted for misdemeanor convictions. The cases include:

 U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta in January ordered the immediate release of Thomas Adams Jr., who had entered the Senate chamber, after he served about five months of a 14-month sentence.

 U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden last month ordered Kevin Seefried be released May 31, after a year in prison. Seefried was sentenced to three years behind bars as one of the first rioters to break into the Capitol and carried a Confederate battle flag he used to strike at a Black officer, McFadden wrote.

 U.S. District Judge John Bates in January ordered Alexander Sheppard to be released May 2, after six months behind bars. He was sentenced to 19 months after his conviction for extremely serious conduct" for being among the first to enter the Capitol and overrun police.

Statute 'is valid' in Trump election interference case: DOJ special counsel Jack Smith

Two of the four charges in Trumps election interference case rely on portions of the same law that Fischer is challenging. Trumps trial is on hold while waiting for the Supreme Court to consider whether he is immune from all the federal charges, with arguments scheduled April 25.

Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith argued in a filing in Trump's immunity case that the obstruction charges "are valid."

While Fischer insisted that he hadnt altered documents, Trump is charged with organizing fraudulent slates of presidential electors in 2020 and causing them to send fake certificates to Congress. Two lawyers and a political consultant helped implement the plan with Trump, which Smith contends was part of a conspiracy to steal the 2020 election.

That alleged conduct falls well outside of any conception of presidential official acts, Smith wrote.

Joseph Fischer, circled, is seen in photos that were part of an FBI arrest warrant. Joseph Fischer, a former police officer in central Pennsylvania, faces seven charges including disorderly conduct and impeding police officers in the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. It might get violent, Fischer wrote in a series of texts about his plans for Jan. 6, according to court records. Fischer made it inside the Rotunda before police pepper-sprayed him and he left, according to court records. He spent less than 4 minutes inside the Capitol.

What charges does Fischer face from Jan. 6?

The charges against Fischer include civil disorder, impeding police officers, entering and remaining in a restricted building, disorderly conduct and demonstrating in a Capitol building. The obstruction count disputed in the Supreme Court case is a felony carrying a maximum 20-year sentence.

It might get violent, Fischer wrote in a series of texts about his plans for the day, according to court records. He warned Police Chief John Leahy he might need him to post bail.

Instead, the chief accompanied the federal authorities who arrested Fischer in February 2021.

Take democratic congress to the gallows, Fischer wrote in texts, according to court records. Cant vote if they cant breathe..lol.

Running toward a line of police while yelling profanity

Fischer entered the Capitol wearing black-framed glasses and a navy blue sweater beneath a red jacket. Prosecutors charged him with running toward police officers while yelling profanity and crashing into the line before falling on the waxed Seneca sandstone floor. Fischer contends he was pushed toward police by the crowd and the swell knocked him to the ground. Police pepper-sprayed Fischer and forced him out of the building.

"We pushed police back about 25 feet, got pepper-balled ... but entry into the Capitol was needed to send a message that we the people hold the real power," Fischer wrote in a comment on Facebook.

Fischer contends he entered the Capitol after Congress had recessed, wasn't violent and spent less than four minutes inside.

The township's Board of Supervisors suspended Fischer without pay on the day of his arrest in February 2021 and fired him in June 2021. The board suspended Leahy with pay after Fischer's arrest and accepted his resignation in March 2021.

How did Fischer's case get to the Supreme Court?

The disputed law targets anyone who corruptly destroys or conceals a government record, or who otherwise obstructs, influences, or impedes any official proceeding, or attempts to do so.

U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols dismissed the obstruction count by ruling Fischer hadnt destroyed documents.

A divided D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals panel voted 2-1 to overturn the decision and send it back to Nichols by ruling the law applied to all forms of corrupt obstruction of an official proceeding. Appeals Judge Justin Walker said the law would have had "breathtaking" scope if not for the requirement that a defendant acted "corruptly."

Fisher appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.

Joseph Fischer, center in red jacket, is seen in photos that were part of an FBI arrest warrant. Joseph Fischer, a former police officer in central Pennsylvania, faces seven charges including disorderly conduct and impeding police officers in the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. His trial has been on hold since his arrest in February 2021 while he asks the Supreme Court to rule on whether one of the statutes behind an obstruction charge applies to him. More than one in four of the Jan. 6 defendants  including former President Donald Trump  were charged under the same obstruction statute, so the case could have wide-ranging impact.

Document shredding versus interrupting an official meeting

Congress approved the law in 2002 as part of an overhaul of the financial system. The provision aimed to punish the destruction of documents in the scandal surrounding Enron, after auditor Arthur Andersen LLP had systematically destroyed potentially incriminating documents, according to court records.

During the legislative debate, then-Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del., said the provision strengthens an existing federal offense that is often used to prosecute document shredding and other forms of obstruction of justice.

Fischers lawyers contend no defendant had been convicted of obstructing Congress before Jan. 6 outside of a legislative inquiry or investigation. Put bluntly, the lawyers argued, the rest of the law's history dating to 1831 revealed it was always used for damaging documents.

But government lawyers argued Congress enacted the disputed provision in 2002 to close a loophole exposed in the Enron scandal, which was a lack of prohibition against personally destroying documents.

Congress expanded what the law covered because of the risk that corrupt obstruction could occur in unanticipated ways not prohibited by laws targeted at specific forms of obstruction, Prelogar wrote.

Joseph Fischer, circled, is seen in photos that were part of an FBI arrest warrant. Joseph Fischer, a former police officer in central Pennsylvania, faces seven charges including disorderly conduct and impeding police officers in the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. Fischer made it inside the Rotunda before police pepper-sprayed him and he left after about 4 minutes, according to court records. Take democratic congress to the gallows, Fischer wrote during the riot, according to court records. Cant vote if they cant breathe..lol.

Current and former GOP lawmakers debate need for statute

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., led a group of two other senators and 20 House members urging the Supreme Court to overturn the appeals panel by arguing the law's breadth allows for the prosecution of political rivals.

"It criminalizes political conduct and grants the Department of Justice nearly unfettered discretion to prosecute Americans based on the perceived morality of their political beliefs," the lawmakers wrote.

But former GOP Sen. John Danforth of Missouri led a group of two dozen former lawmakers, governors, judges and administration officials urging the justices not to overturn or rewrite the law.

"If America ever allowed the powerful impulse of might makes right to prevail over the peaceful transfer of power,'' the former officials wrote, ''we would have failed to keep our Republic.''

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How Trump could get help from an ex cop's Jan. 6 Supreme Court case
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  The Leesburg Police Department (LPD) said a former Loudon County Public School employee was charged for assaulting a student at an elementary school last October.

Man hospitalized after Baileys Crossroads shooting

Police said they responded to a report on Oct. 19, 2023 that a student had been assaulted by a staff member at Frederick Douglas Elementary School. It was reported that cafeteria employee Chun Wu, 43, assaulted a student in the schools cafeteria during the lunch period.

According to LPD, the child did not need medical attention.

Wu was served with a summons Friday morning for one count of simple assault.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
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 John L. Thornton, co-chair of the Board of Trustees of the Asia Society, in Beijing, capital of China, April 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Cai Qi, a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), met with John L. Thornton, co-chair of the Board of Trustees of the Asia Society, in Beijing on Friday.

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, said that at present, China-U.S. relations are at a critical crossroads, and to continuously stabilize and improve the relationship, the two sides need to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and find a correct way to get along based on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.

Noting that the future of China-U.S. relations is created by the people, Cai expressed the hope that Thornton will continue to exert his influence to enhance exchanges and friendship between the two countries.

Thornton said he is willing to continue contributing to U.S.-China friendship and improving Americans' understanding of China. 

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 John L. Thornton, co-chair of the Board of Trustees of the Asia Society, in Beijing, capital of China, April 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)
Former South Carolina officer charged in murder of Winston-Salem man was usually very calm and mild, chief said

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP)  The Summerville Police Chief Doug Wright spoke out after a man who was, at the time, employed as an officer with SPD was accused of shooting and killing a man from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, outside of a Chick-fil-A in Summerville, South Carolina.

According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, former Summerville Police Officer Anthony DeLustro, 64, is charged with murder in the death of 39-year-old Michael ONeal, of Winston-Salem. DeLustro was off-duty when SLED says he engaged in an altercation at a Chick-fil-A in Summerville. He allegedly shot and killed ONeal.

On Thursday, Wright told reporters that there was confusion as officers responded to the scene.

Anthony DeLustro (Berkeley County Jail)

Michael O'Neal. (Courtesy of Michael O'Neal's family)

Michael O'Neal. (Courtesy of Michael O'Neal's family)

Michael O'Neal. (Courtesy of Michael O'Neal's family)

There was a lot of confusion and chaos because they did not know that the officer was not in uniform or that he was a police officer, Wright said. People were calling in. It was very confusing to a lot of people, including the officers responding until they got on scene.

As soon as officers arrived, they evaluated the situation and immediately went and removed Mr. ONeal from his vehicle and began rendering first aid upon Mr. ONeal and I think the family needs to know that.

SLED charges former Summerville officer with murder in shooting outside Chick-fil-A

When asked about DeLustros usual temperament, Wright said, he was very calm and mild. Meek. Very well respected, and I know theres going to be people watching this  saying, How could you say this about somebody whos been charged with murder? Because these are facts that youre asking, I can tell you. If we had some kind of indication that he was anything but that he would not be allowed to continue his path in law enforcement, Im sure.

DeLustro had never been written up for misconduct. Wright said DeLustro had one use of force incident on record at SPD, which, he added, was determined to be unfounded. Wright did not share the details surrounding the incident but did emphasize that use of force includes acts such as pointing a taser or service weapon at a suspect in addition to force involving physical contact.

How he got to the point where he decided or the decision was made to do what he did, we dont know those answers, Wright said.

Condolences

There were some bad decisions made at that incident that day, and a young man with a whole life ahead of him, Michael ONeal, lost his life, Wright said.

The chief said the police departments hearts go out to the ONeal family and their friends, in addition to extending sympathy to DeLustros family.

Their loss is devastating, and its not something we take lightly either here at the police department or in this community, so our hearts do go out to them, Wright said. Certainly, I will not compare this tragedy to the endurance that the DeLustro family has to feel, as well, as they navigate through this. Certainly, his family has essentially lost their loved one as well, through decisions that have been made.

Wright also extended his sympathy to those who witnessed this incident.

I want to say on our behalf as well to the family but we also want to speak to the employees and the patrons at Chick-fil-A that day, at Staples, the people who were stuck in traffic that were diverted, those are situations that people dont ever want to have to witness in their lifetime ever, he said.

Witness video

The video below shows the conflict before the homicide. The footage may be unsettling to some viewers.

The video shows the two men and a woman by a Hyundai Genesis. The two men appear to push each other before a vehicle crosses the frame. As the men reenter frame, one of the men, who is wearing a T-shirt and appears to be DeLustro, kicks the other, who is wearing a black shirt and appears to be ONeal. The man in the black shirt steps back. The woman and the man in the T-shirt attempt to hold each other back. The man in the black shirt steps towards the man in the T-shirt, and the two men grapple each other. The video ends after another vehicle crosses into the frame.

ONeal family reacts

The ONeal family issued the following statement after the news of DeLustros arrest:

We appreciate the continued community outreach, support, and respect for privacy during this difficult time. Today, the family was notified of the arrest of Anthony DeLustro for the murder of Michael ONeal. As we continue to mourn our loss, we are hopeful that justice will prevail. We appreciate the work and dedication of the involved departments who have worked to get to this point.

ONeals cousin and sister-in-law are managing a GoFundMe benefitting ONeals parents.

Michaels family is respectfully waiting for SLED to perform a thorough investigation, which takes time, the organizers said in the GoFundMe description. Michaels father was an officer with Winston-Salem police for over 30 years. This is a family that has a great deal of respect for law enforcement in general, yet is fully aware that no profession is free of bad actors. We remain optimistic that the SLED detectives will find the truth and bring about justice.

Summerville police react

On Wednesday, the Summerville Police Department released a statement, which said, in part, This tragedy has devastated two families and we offer our deepest sympathies to both.

The full statement from SPD is included below.

On April 10, 2024, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) notified SPD of their impending charges against former Summerville Police department (SPD) Officer Anthony DeLustro. On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in the interest of transparency and impartiality, Chief Doug Wright requested SLED assume the investigation into the incident which occurred at 1312 N. Main St. in Summerville, S.C. As the judicial process moves forward, the Summerville Police Department will continue to refer inquiries about the incident to SLED. This tragedy has devastated two families and we offer our deepest sympathies to both.

South Carolina law enforcement describe incident

SLED released an affidavit describing the incident, which took place on March 20.

According to the report, DeLustro, who was off-duty but employed by the Summerville Police Department at the time, got out of his vehicle and an altercation ensued with ONeal. Witnesses said that the victim asked DeLustro Do you want to do this? several times, and DeLustro responded, Come on you f f. The two exchanged punches and kicks, and bystanders attempted to separate them.

During the fight, DeLustro allegedly told ONeal he was under arrest. The officer reportedly took his law enforcement credentials out of his back pocket and presented them briefly before the two of them fell to the ground.

During the fight, DeLustros Springfield Armory CD handgun fell out of his holster onto the pavement. It landed behind his white Ford Edge.

ONeal stepped back, and witnesses heard him say he wanted to leave. Investigators say they have evidence showing that ONeal then tried to leave the fight and return to his Hyundai Genesis.

DeLustros wife had reportedly tried to physically restrain ONeal during the fight and stop him from getting into his vehicle to leave.

A witness who was holding DeLustro allegedly heard the off-duty officer say that he would shoot ONeal if he left.

DeLustro managed to break free from the witness who was holding him and grab his gun. DeLustro, armed with the gun, approached ONeals vehicle, according to the report. DeLustro then opened the passenger side door and got into the vehicle. ONeal told DeLustro to get out of my car as he started to drive away. DeLustro, who was partially seated in the passenger seat, reportedly fired one shot from his gun, which struck and killed ONeal.

DeLustro told investigators that he was trying to stop ONeal, who he knew was trying to leave. He said he did not see ONeal with any weapon and ONeal had not threatened to use a weapon.

A reasonable person could not have reasonably believed that the victim posed a threat of imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury to others because the victim was unarmed, walked away from the altercation and attempted to leave in his vehicle, SLED said in the report.

The report goes on to say that DeLustro recklessly put himself in danger when he entered the victims vehicle armed with a handgun.

DeLustro was fired from the police department after Summerville police were notified about his arrest. He appeared before a judge in bond court Wednesday night and begged the judge for mercy.

Summerville officer dragged by vehicle after altercation in Chick-fil-A parking lot, officials say

Any mercy you can show me so I can be with them (family) and help them I would appreciate. My entire life was public service. I never did anything wrong. I never had one substantiated complaint in the 35 years Ive been in law enforcement, and I just ask for your mercy so I can help my wife with the girls, DeLustro said.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is continuing its investigation of the shooting. Delustro is set to make his initial appearance in court on June 14.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Should Fort Lauderdale airport create its own police force? Auditor suggests considering it

Management at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport should study whether it makes sense to create its own police department, according to a newly released county audit that examined the Broward Sheriffs Offices service at the airport.

The audit, completed this month by the Office of County Auditor Bob Melton, broached the idea as a potential best business practice  to ensure the airport is receiving the best services and prices.

The audit set out to evaluate the reasonableness and appropriateness of payments made to Broward Sheriffs Office for law enforcement services at the airport. Among the audits findings:

When compared to other surveyed airports, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood has the highest budgeted cost of law enforcement services per passenger boarding a plane at an airport.

Confiscated property and money at the airport are not properly disclosed and provided.

There are not proper internal controls to track deputies use of gas for their cars.

Overall, the audit made some positive findings: Payments made to the Sheriffs Office for law enforcement services at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport are reasonable and appropriate.

For fiscal year 2023, which runs from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2023, the Broward County Aviation Department paid the Sheriffs Office about $29 million for 123 positions.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International is considered a large hub airport that services more than 700 flights a day. During fiscal year 2023, about 17.1 million passengers boarded planes at the airport.

But the audit said there were still concerns and opportunities for improvement.

Creating a new police force

The audit noted a competitive approach for obtaining law enforcement services for the FLL Airport hadnt been sought since the agreement began in 1996.

Good business practices require procurement of services at competitive prices, as well as terms and conditions being the best fit for business operations, Melton wrote. That could mean improvements, not only from a financial standpoint, but in quality of service and relationships between the parties. Failure to seek a competitive approach may disincentivize (the Broward Sheriffs Office) from being responsive to the FLL Airports needs.

While Broward County can legally establish its own law enforcement for the airport, it is not allowed by state law to contract with any other police department to provide any services provided by the sheriff, according to the audit.

And while the majority of the airport is located in unincorporated Broward, there are small portions situated within neighboring Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach.

When the airport expanded in 1997, the county, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood each enacted ordinances that required the county to maintain an agreement with the Sheriffs Office for law enforcement services. Those orders are scheduled to expire March 31, 2034. But as long as the parties agree, the rules can be amended to make the change before then.

We recommend management perform an in-depth analysis of quantitative and qualitative operational factors to evaluate the feasibility of creating its own police force, according to the audit.

In a statement to the South Florida Sun Sentinel, the Broward Sheriffs Office said its in the process of examining the audit.

The agency is aware of the Broward County audit and is currently reviewing it, the Sheriffs Office said. BSO is proud to provide public safety services at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and looks forward to continuing our partnership with the Broward County Aviation Department.

The Sheriffs Office did not comment about the audits recommendation for the county to consider a new airport force.

The airports administration also declined to comment as the Board of County Commissioners has not yet had an opportunity to officially review and take action on the suggestion, according to an airport spokeswoman, adding that it would be premature and inappropriate to comment.

Seizures not properly disclosed

The audit concluded that confiscated property and money at the airport are not properly disclosed and provided to the county. Based on the sheriffs finance department figures, we noted that the portion of awards from confiscations allocated to BSO Airport District totals approximately $810,000 from 2010 through August 30, 2023.

And, the audit said, there was no verification by airport management to ensure that the FLL Airports share of confiscated funds was adequately allocated and earmarked for the FLL Airport when deposited, and whether these funds were used by the Sheriff within the FLL Airport.

The audit recommended airport management require BSO to submit adequate reports regarding BSO confiscations at the FLL Airport as required in the agreement.

Staffing requirement is not being met

Actual hours of service for the Airport Safety Officer positions provided by the Sheriffs Office were less than the budgeted positions by four to five full-time employees during the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, the audit said. Therefore, the minimum staffing requirement is not being met as required by the agreement.

The minimum required number of staff for the Airport Safety Officer position is 20.

The audit notes that the Sheriffs Office is among the many law enforcement agencies across the United States facing the challenge of recruiting staff.

Seeking more documentation

The audit also said the Sheriffs Office does not consistently provide adequate documentation and justification to support budgets. The audit found that adequate documentation would explain the nature of expenses in these accounts and show how amounts were determined.

The Broward County Aviation Department paid the Sheriffs Office about $2 million per year during a two-year period starting fiscal year 2021 for services which were based on estimated budget amounts established as part of BSO-wide allocations without a reconciliation to actual costs incurred. However, after our numerous requests during the audit, BSO was unable to provide documentation demonstrating the actual costs for these accounts.

Therefore, we were unable to verify the actual costs of these expenses, and the accuracy of the amounts paid to BSO.

Airport could have saved approximately $540,000

Sheriffs Office employees payments for some benefits including retirement were paid from the airports budget, even if the employees only spent a small portion of their tenure with BSO at the FLL Airport, the audit said. If the percentages of actual time at the FLL Airport and other district assignments were appropriately allocated to these payments, the FLL Airport could have saved approximately $540,000 during the periods we reviewed.

Keeping better track of gas

The audit also examined the use of gas by deputies assigned to the airport and found data anomalies in reports.

The Sheriffs Office does not have adequate internal controls to monitor fuel usage by BSO employees to ensure that fuel costs charged to the FLL Airport are accurate, according to the audit, since other than the cameras located by in-house pumps, there are no physical controls in place to prevent and monitor whether the fuel obtained by a BSO employee is for a BSO vehicle only.

Internal control over fuel for cars should be enhanced to ensure fuel costs are paid for legitimate purposes and supported by accurate and complete documentation.

Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on X, formerly Twitter, @LisaHuriash
The search for a missing person led to the discovery of human remains in a suitcase, South Carolina officials told news outlets.

The Walterboro Police Department said its officers were investigating the disappearance when they smelled a foul odor of possible decomposition emitting from an abandoned building. A person was found dead in a suitcase inside the building, according to a news release that The Press and Standard shared on Facebook.

The grim discovery was reported April 10 in Walterboro, a roughly 50-mile drive west from Charleston.

Officers said the remains belonged to a 32-year-old woman who likely was last seen a month ago but wasnt reported missing until the day she was found dead. Autopsy results are pending, WCIV reported.

In response to McClatchy News request for information, the S.C. Law Enforcement Division in an email said Walterboro officers requested its help with an investigation regarding the discovery of human remains. The state agency asked that other questions about the case be directed to police.

The Walterboro Police Department and the Colleton County coroners office didnt immediately share additional details with McClatchy News on April 12.

Hunter stumbles upon human skull of man who vanished 6 years ago, SC officials say

Submerged car with human remains found, NC cops say. It could solve 41-year cold case
Four tribes ban Gov. Kristi Noem from their land for comments about Mexican drug cartels

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem cannot set foot on approximately 15% of the land in her state after four Native American tribes banned her for linking tribal leaders to Mexican drug cartels.

In the past few months, Noem has come under fire for drawing a connection between tribal leaders and drug cartels on reservations and accusing Native American parents of neglecting their children.

Weve got some tribal leaders that I believe are personally benefiting from the cartels being there and thats why they attack me every day, she said at a community forum in March.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe banned the governor from the Pine Ridge Reservation  the second largest in the country  in February, and the Cheyenne River Sioux followed suit last week. Then, this week, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, whose reservation spans both North and South Dakota, and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, both barred Noem from its lands as well.

Tribal leaders have criticized Noem for politicizing violent crime incidents on reservations. Our people are being used for her political gain, Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out told The Associated Press.

Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chairwoman Janet Alkire also said that Noem's "wild and irresponsible" comments about tribal leaders are "a sad reflection of her fear-based politics."

Noem has clashed with tribal leaders in the past, and it isn't the first time she's been banned from tribal lands. In 2019, the Oglala Sioux Tribe banished her from Pine Ridge Reservation over her support for bills targeting Keystone XL Pipeline protesters.

Her incendiary comments about tribal leaders  along with her wholesale agreement with Donald Trumps abortion stance and a recent dental makeover  have fueled speculation that she hopes to be Donald Trump's running mate, for which she is reportedly being considered.

Despite calls for an apology, Noem has doubled down. She has continued to assert that the proliferation of drugs on reservations proves that "every state is a border state," echoing other Republican governors' criticism of President Joe Biden's border policies.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
A lethal dose of heroin compared to a lethal dose of fentanyl (Photo New Hampshire State Crime Lab).

The current drug epidemic of fentanyl being mixed with other substances has been called the fourth wave.

And if you use that metaphor, then Montana is getting pummeled by tsunami.

New real-time drug testing reports show that even though the state lagged behind others initially when it came to the trend, its effects in the Treasure State are now among the worst in the nation.

Simply put, few methamphetamine users and opioid addicts are using the substances individually  now, theyre often found together, and Montana is far eclipsing the national average of polysubstance use, meaning drug testing is more often than not detecting positive results for a mixture of drugs, instead of just one.

New data, released through the Millennium Health Signals Report, and presented by Kelly Olson at a meeting of clinical laboratories and medical providers in Billings on Thursday, showed the devastating and harrowing results of statewide drug use.

Nationally, just more than 60% of drug testing for methamphetamine indicates a mixture of fentanyl as well. But in Montana, that number is shy of 75%.

Millennium Health is a national laboratory that specializes in drug testing and monitoring illicit drug use. It produces the Millennium Health Signals Report from which these statistics come, along with the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Signals Vol 6-State Reports_MT

That is challenging health care providers and law enforcement because many of the users may be think theyre getting a single drug, like fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, or methamphetamine, but really getting both. Its a modern twist on the speedball drug phenomenon, where a stimulant and depressant are used together.

But todays fentanyl-methamphetamine cocktail is much different than a speedball of a few decades ago. Today, the purity of both drugs is remarkably more concentrated and more dangerous. Not only that, but the ways in which drug cartels manufacture the substances makes them smaller, more concentrated, more potent  and thus, more addictive.

These drugs grab the brain and hold it hostage, said Olson, with the Millennium Health.

Furthermore, Montana has seen a decrease in fentanyl when combined with prescription opioids and heroin use in the past decade, but a 247% rise in methamphetamine-fentanyl and near 5,000% increase in cocaine-fentanyl, largely due to the fact that in 2013, there wasnt much cocaine detected in Montana, while its now recorded in about 4% of all drug screenings. Meanwhile, meth use with fentanyl during that same time period has gone from 21% to 73%.

Dr. Kelly Olson of Millenium Health speaks to a group of clinical laboratory staff at a conference in Billings on April 11, 2024 (Photo by Darrell Ehrlick of the Daily Montanan).

Montana also remains higher than the national average in positive drug tests of fentanyl and alcohol, likely attributed to the Treasure States propensity for drinking in general.

What makes the statistics so troubling, Olson said, is the lethality of drugs together. Because they are more potent and more pure, theyre also more deadly. Between 1998 and 1999, there were around 5,000 annual deaths from opioids. By 2021, that number had jumped to 106,000, largely because of fentanyl, according to the report. In 2010, Olson said, less than 1% of overdose deaths from opioids had stimulants detected. In 2021, that number had jumped to 32%.

Olson said the powerful combination of the drugs apparently help balance each other, creating a potent high. Unlike opioids alone, which cause lower energy and even sleepiness, the amphetamine helps users stay more alert for longer, which gives the drug legs.

Since 2008, emergency room visits for overdosing have increased by six times, and between 2015 and 2019, psychiatric hospitalizations due to overdose or drug use had nearly doubled.

In many cases, trying equals dying, she said. Folks are being surprised by what they get. They think theyre just getting fentanyl. For others, the combination is insurmountable.

The problem is especially pernicious in the West, where states have been battling against methamphetamine for what seems like forever. Cartels, Olson said, are becoming more sophisticated, avoiding larger cities where their activity can be traced, and spreading out into smaller communities. The number of fentanyl-only drug tests has dropped to just 7%, meaning most of the street drugs are combinations, with cartels looking to improve and enhance the product. However, some of the synthetic opioids that are being cooked are more than 10,000 times more potent than the morphine.

If you look at the stats, Montana is being hit hard  harder than most  with fentanyl and methamphetamine, Olson said.

The post The fourth wave of opioids swamps Montana with meth-fentanyl cocktail appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Fox News, Newsmax, and Univision, along with a host of far-right podcasters and social-media influencers, were sued last month for wrongly identifying a man as the neo-Nazi shooter who killed eight people last year in Texas.

Mauricio Garcia, a 36-year-old man from Texas, suddenly saw a picture of him plastered online and during news broadcasts last May after a man with the same name went on a shooting spree in an Allen outlet mall. Garcia is now suing the outlets and individuals who shared his photo and falsely linked him to the deadly shooting.

In addition to the cable and broadcast networks named in the complaint, filed late last month in Travis County, Garcia is also suing right-wing podcast hosts Steven Crowder and Tim Pool, Infowars host Owen Shroyer, political media gadfly Simon Ateba, and celebrity blog Hollywood Unlocked. HuffPost first reported the lawsuit on Friday.

Disturbing Posts Show Neo-Nazi Shooter Planned to Target Texas Mall

In their haste to cash in on the eagerness of viewers and readers to learn the identity of the May 6, 2023 mass shooter at the outlet mall in Allen, Texas, several media organizations recklessly disregarded basic journalistic safeguards and published the photo of an innocent man, branding him as a neo-Nazi murderer to his local community and the nation at large, the lawsuit alleges.

Garcia is represented in the suit by attorney Greg Adler and Mark Bankston, who is best known for representing two Sandy Hook parents in their successful defamation case against Infowars conspiracist Alex Jones. Besides Garcia, he is also currently representing a 22-year-old Jewish student who is suing X owner Elon Musk for falsely accusing him of engaging in a neo-Nazi riot.

In short, each of these media outlets recklessly portrayed our client as a neo-Nazi mass murderer, and each of them have shown him nothing but disrespect, Bankston declared on social media on Friday. That is something we cannot accept. We will not allow media organizations to falsely accuse an innocent man of being a neo-Nazi mass murderer without being held accountable. Well see them in court.

On May 6, 2023, Mauricio Martinez Garcia, 33, opened fire at the Allen Premium Outlet mall, killing five adults and three children while injuring seven others. The shooter wore a tactical vest with a Right Wing Death Squad patch and had swastika and Nazi SS tattoos. By the following day, it was revealed that he had extensively shared white supremacist beliefs online, and his name and date of birth were shared by law enforcement.

At the same time, images of the plaintiff that had been sourced to a mugshot site were shared on social media, seemingly in an effort by right-wing trolls to push back on the narrative that the shooter was a far-right extremist and neo-Nazi.

Pool, the beanie-clad right-wing talker who hosts the Timcast podcast, repeatedly shared a photo of the plaintiff during his daily show and asserted that claims the gunman was a white supremacist was a government-run misinformation campaign. You see, heres where we get into the psyop. No one knows if this Russian social media profile is actually actually belongs to this guy Now the photos that are coming out  They dont show his face, Pool declared.

Feds Eye Neo-Nazi Extremism in Texas Massacre by Ex-Guard

After Timcast reporter Josie Glabach, also known as The Redheaded Libertarian, repeated that the shooting was a psy-op and Bellingcats Aric Toler, who uncovered much of the shooters social-media activity, was a CIA operative, Musk amplified Glabachs claims and repeatedly insisted the gunmans identity was a lie.

Despite Plaintiffs demand, Timcast Media Group, Inc. refused to publish a retraction within 30 days, the complaint states. Indeed, despite acknowledging Plaintiffs demand and deleting the articles, no retraction has ever been published.

Shroyer, who has served jail time for his role in the Jan. 6 insurrection, aired the plaintiffs photo on his Infowars show and stated: Theyre the ones who call a Hispanic man a white supremacist and a neo-Nazi. His name was Mauricio Garcia, your neo-Nazi [laugh] white supremacist. But we know now, this is the Leftist logic, we know now that it actually has nothing to do with skin color. It has everything to do with politics. Dont you know?

On his Louder with Crowder podcast, Crowder aired an image of the plaintiff as the gunman. In an article on his site, the author claimed that he was going against his general standard of showing images of mass murderers because the media refuses to show the shooters photo, sarcastically calling the plaintiff the new face of white supremacy.

The lawsuit notes that neither Shroyer nor Crowder responded to demands for retraction.

Newsmax hosts Eric Bolling and Greg Kelly, meanwhile, extensively shared images of the plaintiff as the shooter during their shows, pointing to Garcias Chicano heritage as proof that the gunman couldnt have been motivated by white nationalism. Look: this is not a white supremacist, the MAGA host Kelly fumed. He also falsely tied the plaintiff to a gang, according to the lawsuit.

While Newsmax did issue a correction and retraction prior to receiving a demand from the plaintiff, the network is still named in the complaint. Nonetheless, Plaintiff sent a demand letter to Newsmax giving notice of the location, date, and nature of the false publications, along with an explanation of their falsity, the lawsuit alleges. Plaintiff now seeks damages for libel based on those false publications on The Balance with Eric Bolling and Greg Kelly Reports.

How Coward and Phony Tim Pool Became One of the Biggest Political YouTubers on the Planet

Fox News is accused of publishing the erroneous photo in an online article about the shooter and failing to issue a correction when asked. Fox News Network, LLC refused to publish a retraction within 30 days, the complaint notes. Indeed, no retraction has ever been published. Fox completely ignored Plaintiff and never responded.

As for Univision, the Spanish-language broadcaster is alleged to have featured an image of the plaintiff as the gunman multiple times across its primetime news shows, including during anchor Jorge Ramos broadcast.

After hearing from a neighbor that my clients image was shown on Univision, my clients mother contacted a local Univision reporter, who told her that she would inform management immediately, but nobody ever reached out, Bankston wrote on Friday. Even worse, when my co-counsel Greg Adler and I provided a demand letter, Univision initially denied that it had broadcast our clients image on its primetime shows.

A TelevisaUnivision spokesperson declined to comment about the lawsuit. All other media outlets and individuals did not respond to The Daily Beasts request for comment.

Garcia is asking for at least $1 million in his libel lawsuit.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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France to participate in Peace Summit in Switzerland

While on a visit to a defence company near Bordeaux, French President Emmanuel Macron said France will be participating in a summit dedicated to peace in Ukraine, which will be held in June in Switzerland.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Ukrinform

Quote: "We will be at the meeting proposed by Switzerland and will join all the countries that want to achieve a lasting peace, a peace that respects international law and rules."

Details: Macron noted that he appreciated Switzerlands commitment to holding this forum.

"I had an opportunity to discuss this last December during my visit to the Confederation, and I believe that this is a great initiative that will unite all countries to work on peace conditions," Macron stated.

He added that France is working closely on this issue.

Background:

Earlier, it was revealed that Slovakia would participate in the inaugural Peace Summit in Switzerland.

On 10 April, the Swiss government announced that it would host a two-day high-level conference on settling the war in Ukraine on 15 and 16 June.

Russia said it would not be participating in the talks.

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France has issued new warnings for its citizens and government employees in the Middle East amid fears that Iran is planning on launching an imminent attack against Israel.

While the French government has warned Iran not to escalate, its advising its citizens to avoid travel to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories in the coming days.

Stephane Sejourne, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, approved the new travel warnings during a crisis meeting on Friday.

The measures also advise families of French diplomats based in Tehran to return to France, and include a pause of missions by French civil servants to Iran, Lebanon Israel and the Palestinian territories.

The move by the French government follows the U.S. issuing new security directives to its staff in Israel, restricting their movements. It comes as the White House is warning that there is a high risk Iran may launch an attack on Israel.

Iranian officials have publicly threatened to attack Israel in retaliation for a suspected Israeli strike on an Iranian embassy in Syria, killing seven Iranian military advisers, including three senior officials with Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

President Biden said that an attack by Iran could happen sooner rather than later but added that his message to Tehran was simply, dont.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Chinese and German students visit Youdao, a Beijing-based intelligent education subsidiary of China's internet giant NetEase, in Beijing, capital of China, April 9, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhao Xu)

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- "Hi, what would you like to talk about today?" an artificial intelligence (AI) English tutor named Echo asked Svenja Butzlaff, a German 10th-grade student who was visiting Youdao, a Beijing-based intelligent education subsidiary of China's internet giant NetEase.

Via a mobile app, she conversed with the avatar about the history of China's tea culture. "The development of AI technology in China is quite impressive," Butzlaff said.

Butzlaff is among over 20 students from Germany's CJD Elze who have visited China under the invitation of the Affiliated High School of Peking University (PKUHS), based on an exchange mechanism between the two schools.

Over a two-week stay in China, the Germans had classes together with their counterparts from Beijing. They visited tech companies as well as landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace, fully immersed in the Chinese way of life and experiencing its culture.

"Before this trip to Beijing, I thought I would be surrounded by skyscrapers. I didn't expect to see hutong alleys or meet such an ancient city rich in historical spirit," a 14-year-old German student named Laura said.

She added that she was particularly fascinated by the delicate patterns on the buildings in the Forbidden City.

Education plays another critical role in connecting these adolescents. At PKUHS, German students took courses in art, sports, and crafts.

"German students are full of curiosity. We shared our learning experiences, hobbies, and favorite foods with one another. I found it rather interesting," said Wu Churan, a student from PKUHS.

Wu also recalled her visit to Germany under the same exchange program. "It benefited me a lot for it not only expanded my horizons but helped me make many good friends and gain a deeper understanding of cultural diversity," Wu added.

As for German student Adriano, who aspires to be a chef, Chinese cuisine is especially charismatic.

"I had dumplings for the very first time at my Beijing companion's. It was so delicious. Besides, his family took me to a Sichuan-style hot pot, which was equally amazing," Adriano said. The 14-year-old also joked that he seemed to have "gained weight" during his stay in China.

It is worth mentioning that he didn't forget to buy some Chinese chili sauce and seasonings before returning to Germany. "I'll try making Chinese dishes for my family," he said.

Upon wrapping up the trip, Laura jotted down her wish. "I hope to pursue my bachelor's degree in China in the future, make more Chinese friends, and have an extensive understanding of Chinese culture."

"Sino-German teen friendships will only grow fonder with more such face-to-face exchanges," said Carsten, the teacher who led the German student delegation. "We all expect more activities of this kind to come in the future." 
The Franklin County Republican Party has revoked its endorsement of John Rutan for county prosecutor in the November general election based on emailed comments Rutan made to The Dispatch that party members called "strange" and "inflammatory."

The vote to rescind Rutan's party endorsement was taken by voice during a heated meeting of the county GOP Central Committee on Thursday at the Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square across from the Ohio Statehouse.

After newly-elected Central Committee Chairman Tim Rankin said, "the ayes have it," Rutan attempted to object to the voice vote. Rankin told Rutan he was out of order because Rutan is not a member of the county GOP Central Committee.

John Rutan, Republican nominee for Franklin County Prosecutor, spoke Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the Franklin County Republican Party Central Committee meeting at the Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square before the committee voted to rescind its endorsement of Rutan. This will not remove Rutan from the Nov. 5 general election ballot, where he will face Democratic nominee and Columbus City Councilmember Shayla Favor in a battle to replace retiring Prosecutor Gary Tyack.

The decision does not remove Rutan from the Nov. 5 general election ballot, where the defense attorney who ran unopposed in the Republican primary will face Democratic nominee and Columbus City Councilmember Shayla Favor in a battle to replace retiring Prosecutor Gary Tyack.

Before the vote, Frank Reed Jr., of Bexley, speaking for the screening committee that previously recommended Rutan, told the gathered Republicans that the screening committee had unanimously recommended rescinding the endorsement.

Reed said Rutan's "words dishonor this party" and listed examples of "strange statements" Rutan made in an email to The Dispatch the day after the March primary, including unsubstantiated allegations about Franklin County elections being "stolen" and that "elites" were responsible for the 9/11 attacks.

Reed quoted Rutan calling former President Donald Trump a "Trojan horse for the Democratic party," a comment Trump supporters in the crowd appeared to especially take issue with. Rutan reassured the crowd he's voting for Trump.

Rutan shared his full emails to The Dispatch with committee members ahead of the meeting. During the meeting, Reed cited parts of Rutan's lengthy emails The Dispatch did not previously quote, including:

"I am the only candidate in 100 years with the necessary experience," and "Why is there video evidence JFK was killed by his driver but the CIA got away with it?"

Given a chance to speak before the committee voted, Rutan again blamed The Dispatch for publishing his comments and said his words were taken out of context.

Rutan said he thought Republicans believed in freedom of speech.

"It was never my intention to make it public. Nor was it my intention to be a detriment to our party. My problem is I say what I think. I just try to be honest," Rutan said.

Rutan said he's the law-and-order candidate, and unlike Favor has the experience as a defense attorney needed to address concerning trends in crime in the county.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm not here to offer you money. I wish I did, because I probably wouldn't have any problems. But what I have to offer you is something better, and it's called results," Rutan said.

After Rutan spoke and before the vote, Franklin County Board of Elections Deputy Director David Payne, a Republican, spoke. Payne said he doesn't care what Rutan's thoughts are about 9/11, the JFK assassination or Trump and Rutan has freedom of speech.

"What I do care about is his irresponsible and inflammatory speech and claims that elections are stolen in Franklin County," Payne said. "His irresponsible and inflammatory rhetoric puts board of election staff and nearly 5,000 poll workers at risk."

Payne pointed to threats and violence against election officials in other states and said, "only by the grace of God have we avoided any violence."

jlaird@dispatch.com

@LairdWrites

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Franklin County Republicans rescind prosecutor candidate's endorsement
French Foreign Ministry refuses to talk to Russians since they lie, Russia is outraged

Russia is outraged due to recent statements by Stephane Sejourne, French Foreign Affairs Minister, about Frances unwillingness to negotiate with Russia and has summoned the French ambassador to Moscow to its Foreign Ministry.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia in its statement on 12 April, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed that it would summon the French diplomat due to recent statements by French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne that the French side was not interested in negotiations with Russian officials since their published statements are false.

"We consider these statements by the head of the French Foreign Ministry as a deliberate and elaborate step by the French side, aimed at disrupting any possibility of a dialogue between the two countries," the Russian Foreign Ministry states.

A few days ago, Sejourne told the French media that France was no longer interested in negotiating with Russian officials.

"We are not interested in talking to Russian officials since the press releases and reports published afterwards are untruthful," Sejourne stated.

Background:

Sejournes statement is connected with a recent phone conversation between French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu.

This conversation was their first interaction since October 2022. It mainly concerned the terrorist attack committed in Moscow Oblast on 22 March by ISIS.

Afterwards, Russias Defence Ministry claimed that "the readiness for the dialogue concerning Ukraine was indicated" during the conversation. In response, a representative of the French government called this statement false.

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A drone has crashed into an administrative building belonging to Russian energy giant Gazprom in Russias Belgorod, injuring two people, Belgorod Oblast governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said. Russian Telegram channels are also reporting that two soldiers were injured at another site.

Source: Gladkov on Telegram; Latvia-based Russian media outlet Meduza; Russian Telegram channels

Quote Gladkov: "The Armed Forces of Ukraine attacked Belgorod with an aircraft-type UAV.

The drone collided with the administrative building of a resource-supplying company. The explosion left two people injured."

Details: Gladkov reports that one man suffered a shrapnel wound to his leg, while the other sustained wounds to both arms and legs. Both men were taken to hospital.

Furthermore, the Russian governor stated that the building's facade had been damaged, and that operational services were working on site.

Photos: Meduza on Telegram

According to Meduza, the Gazprom building on 5th Zavodsky Lane was damaged.

Updated: In addition, Russian Telegram channels report that another drone struck a petroleum-fuelled generator in Belgorod Oblast, causing two soldiers to receive burns.

According to Astra, on 11 April, a drone dropped an explosive device on a gas generator 500 m from the border and 4 km from Petrivka. As a result, two soldiers were injured and taken to hospital with burns of varying severity.

According to Astra sources, at least two soldiers and one FSB border guard officer have been injured as a result of UAV attacks in Russia's border oblasts of Belgorod and Kursk in the last two days.

Background: On 12 March, Gladkov stated that a Ukrainian drone had struck a government building in the city of Belgorod, injuring two people.

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Former President George W. Bush is hosting a fundraiser in Dallas next week for Republican Pennsylvania Senate candidate Dave McCormick.

The invitation, posted online by reporter Ryan Hernandez, is offering two paid events for guests  a VIP roundtable event that will cost $24,500 per person and a reception at $3,300 a person.

Along with Bush, billionaire Harlan Crow and republican strategist Karl Rove will be in attendance, among others.

McCormick and Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) are the only two candidates who will appear on the Pennsylvania Senate ballot, the states highest court ruled recently.

The ruling booted several other challengers from appearing on the ballot and cleared the way for a match-up between Casey, the incumbent, and McCormick, a former hedge fund CEO, in the April 23 primary.

Casey led McCormick in polls earlier this year by a comfortable margin. McCormick ran for Senate in 2022 but lost the Republican nomination to Mehmet Oz.

The Associated Press reported the Pennsylvania Senate race is likely going to be one of the most expensive and closely watched races this year as Democrats attempt to defend their majority in the Senate.

Pennsylvania, a critical battleground state, will help determine whether Democrats will maintain their majority in the Senate and reelect President Biden.

According to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ, Casey leads McCormick in a Wednesday poll. Casey has 45.7 percent support, while McCormick has 37 percent.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Georgetown man enters Alford plea, sentenced to 10 years in prison for accessory to 2020 murder

GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  A Georgetown man entered an Alford plea Thursday to accessory after the fact of murder and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, according to the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office.

Fifteenth Circuit Solicitor Jimmy Richardson made the announcement Thursday in a news release.

Eric Wade Hempel, 24, entered a guilty plea under North Carolina vs Alford to accessory after the fact of murder before the Honorable Circuit Court Judge Benjamin Culbertson, the solicitors office said.

In an Alford plea, the defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges a jury would likely convict based on the evidence. Hempel faced up to 15 years in prison but was sentenced to 10 years, the solicitors office said.

The charge stemmed from the 2020 death of 35-year-old Harry Barkley, whose remains were found in May 2021 in a wooded area of Williamsburg County.

Barkley was reported missing in August 2020 by his family and his car was found a month later. Hempel was also charged in Williamsburg County and those charges are pending, the solicitors office said.

Count on News13 for updates.

* * *

Taylor Ford is a digital journalist for News13. She joined the News13 team in January 2023. Taylor is a Florence native and covers the Pee Dee out of News13s Florence Bureau. Read more of Taylors work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
Georgia man who added antifreeze into breast milk for newborn daughter sentenced to prison

Georgia man who added antifreeze into breast milk for newborn daughter sentenced to prison

A Georgia father was sentenced to 50 years in prison after a Fulton County jury found him guilty of poisoning breast milk for his newborn daughter with antifreeze.

Curtis Jack, who was charged with felony criminal attempt to commit murder and felony first-degree cruelty to children, was found guilty on all counts, the South Fulton Police Department said Thursday evening.

He was sentenced to 50 years in prison with 40 years to serve in custody.

GEORGIA LYFT PASSENGER ACCUSED OF RAPING, KIDNAPPING DRIVER: POLICE

Curtis Jack was sentenced to 50 years in prison for adding antifreeze to breast milk for his newborn daughter, the South Fulton Police Department said on Thursday.

Jack was arrested on Oct. 16, 2020, after his 18-day-old daughter tested positive for ethylene glycol, a chemical often found in automotive antifreeze, while at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta  Scottish Rite Hospital, according to FOX 5 Atlanta at the time.

South Fulton police said the infant was born on Sept. 24, 2020, to Jack and a woman he worked with after he reportedly insisted she terminate the pregnancy. The two had been in an "intimate relationship" since January of that year, police said.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

GEORGIA MOM FOUND GUILTY OF MURDER AFTER ALLEGEDLY ATTEMPTING TO KILL DAUGHTER'S ALLEGED CHILD MOLESTER

Jack admitted to South Fulton detectives he added antifreeze to bottles of breast milk he picked up on Oct. 1, 2020, from his daughter's mother, who was still hospitalized after giving birth.

Jack admitted to South Fulton detectives that he added automotive antifreeze to breast milk for his newborn daughter, according to police.

He then took the poisoned bottles to the baby's grandmother, who was also caring for the woman's other child while she was in the hospital.

Within 24 hours, the baby girl became critically ill and was suspected of being poisoned, police said.

During Jack's trial, the baby's mother and grandmother testified for the state, along with law enforcement officers and medical experts. A demonstration of how easy it was to poison the breast milk was also presented to the court.

Jack was booked into the Fulton County Jail early Friday to begin his 50-year prison sentence.

Jack was booked into the Fulton County Jail early Friday.





Original article source: Georgia man who added antifreeze into breast milk for newborn daughter sentenced to prison
A view of the regional court and district court. German authorities have arrested three teenagers aged 15 and 16 on suspicion of plotting a deadly Islamist terrorist attack in the western German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, prosecutors said on Friday. Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa

A German court has sentenced a 43-year-old Islamic State terrorist to five and a half years in prison, a court spokeswoman said on Friday.

The man joined the terrorist group in Syria in 2013 and continued to support it in Germany, procuring money for the group until he was arrested in 2021.

Prosecutors in the western city of Dusseldorf called for a prison sentence of six and a half years, while the defence called for two and a half years.

The man from Algeria was found to have joined combat operations as an Islamic State terrorist in Syria from 2013 to 2015, particularly in Aleppo and Kobane. He also trained fighters and took part in negotiations on the exchange of Islamic State fighters who were captured, according to the court.

He left Syria in June 2015 after pressure on Islamic State grew. After entering Germany in August 2015, he collected around 9,000 ($9,570) in donations in 2020 to support women who were members of Islamic State in the Syrian refugee camp Al-Hol to smuggle them out of the camp.

The judgement is not yet final.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has compared Putin's war against Ukraine to Hitler's annexation of Czechoslovakia in 1938 and said that Europe should prepare for a large-scale Russian attack.

Source: Bloomberg

Details: At the presentation of a new biographical book about Winston Churchill, he stressed that Russian leader Vladimir Putin would not stop when the war against Ukraine is over.

Quote: "He has also said that clearly. Just as clearly as (Nazi Germany's leader Adolf) Hitler, who also always said that he would not stop," Pistorius said.

At the same time, he called Churchill a strong leader with a clear vision in difficult times. He said that when faced with war, people choose a leader "whom they trust and whom they follow, even though he presents the world in ugly terms".

Pistorius reiterated his call for an easing of Germany's debt ceiling to help bolster its military after a 100bn special off-budget fund runs out in 2027.

"We have to put this country back in a position where it can defend itself. We have to decide now whether we want to prepare for a genuine threat from Putin to materialise or whether we want to make it easy for him," he concluded.

Background:

Earlier, EU Chief Diplomat Josep Borrell said that a full-scale conflict in Europe was no longer a fantasy, and Europeans must find new ways to fund preparations for a potentially wider war on the continent.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated in February that Russia may attack NATO countries within the next few years, as evidenced by Moscow's actions in recent weeks.

Pistorius said in January that NATO must prepare for a Russian attack on a NATO country within 5-8 years.

Micael Byden, Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces, and Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Swedish Minister for Civil Defence, have stated that all citizens of the country must be ready for war.

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At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Federal Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz will pay an official visit to China from April 14 to 16.

At the invitation of Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Central African Republic Sylvie Baipo-Temon will pay an official visit to China from April 14 to 16.

CCTV: The leaders of the US, Japan and the Philippines held their first trilateral summit in Washington on April 11, and issued a Joint Vision Statement after the summit. We noted that despite the USs previous claim that this summit and the US-Japan-Philippines cooperation is not aimed at China, the Statement discussed the South China Sea issue at length, blamed China on the East China Sea issue and contained irresponsible comments on the Taiwan question. What is Chinas comment?

Mao Ning: We noted this. I would like to make the following points:

First, China strongly opposes the practice of bloc politics by relevant countries. We firmly oppose any acts that stoke and drive up tensions and harm other countries strategic security and interests. We are seriously against forming exclusive groupings in this region. Japan and the Philippines have every right to develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not introduce bloc confrontation into this region, still less engage in trilateral cooperation at the expense of other countries interests. To know whether the trilateral summit and cooperation is truly not aimed at China, the answer is right there in the trilateral statement. What else could it be if its not a smear and attack against China?

Second, the Taiwan question is purely Chinas internal affair. Resolving the Taiwan question is a matter for the Chinese ourselves that no one can interfere. The biggest threat to cross-Strait peace now is the separatist activities of Taiwan independence forces and external connivance and support for them. If relevant countries truly care about cross-Strait peace and stability and want the world to be safe and prosperous, they should uphold the one-China principle, unequivocally oppose Taiwan independence separatist activities, and support Chinas reunification. This is the right way to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. No one should underestimate the will and capability of the Chinese people to safeguard our sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Third, China has indisputable sovereignty over Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands and Nanhai Zhudao. Our activities in the East China Sea and South China Sea are lawful, justified and beyond reproach. China does not accept relevant countries groundless accusation and deliberate smears against us on the East China Sea and South China Sea. China does not accept the illegal arbitral award on the South China Sea or any unilateral moves based on the award. The situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea is generally stable. Certain countries keep seeking backing from non-regional countries as they infringe on Chinas sovereignty and rights and make provocations at sea. What they have done has escalated the tensions. Certain country outside the region keeps fueling the flame and stoking confrontation. This is flagrant. Let me stress once again that China will firmly guard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and we remain committed to properly settling bilateral maritime issues through dialogue and consultation with countries directly concerned. And we resolutely oppose non-regional countries meddling and sowing discords to escalate the situation.

CCTV: I want to follow up on German Chancellor Olaf Scholzs visit to China. Could you share with us the program of the visit? How does China view the current China-Germany relations? Whats Chinas expectation for the visit?



Mao Ning: During German Chancellor Olaf Scholzs visit to China, President Xi Jinping will meet with him and Premier Li Qiang will have talks with him. The two sides will exchange their views on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.

Over the past 50-plus years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China and Germany have enjoyed robust bilateral relations, frequent high-level exchanges and deepening practical cooperation. China always views Germany as its important partner of mutually beneficial cooperation and supports Germany in playing a more important role in Europe and the wider world. China and Germany have benefited from each others development which has contributed to the welfare of both peoples. The two countries have steered China-EU relations on a steady and sustained course and injected more stability to the world.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-Germany comprehensive strategic partnership. China stands ready to work with Germany and take this visit as an opportunity to enhance mutual understanding and trust and deepen practical cooperation in line with the principles of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefits and seeking common ground while shelving differences to further advance bilateral relations and jointly contribute more to global peace and prosperity.

Global Times: Its reported that the US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said yesterday that Secretary of State Blinken in telephone conversations with Director Wang Yi and high-level officials of other countries asked relevant countries to urge Iran not to escalate. Can you brief us on the telephone call? Will China take measures to put pressure on Iran?



Mao Ning: On the evening of April 11, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi spoke with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the phone at US request. Secretary Blinken shared the US views on the current situation in the Middle East. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China strongly condemns the attack on the Iranian Embassy in Syria. He stressed the inviolability of the security of diplomatic missions and that Iran and Syrias sovereignty must be respected. This round of escalation is the latest spillover of the Gaza conflict. The pressing need now is to bring an end to the conflict as soon as possible. China calls on parties to the conflict to implement UN Security Council Resolution 2728, put in place an immediate ceasefire and halt the humanitarian crisis. China will continue to view the issue based on its merits, play a constructive role in resolving the Middle East issue and help deescalate the situation. The US in particular needs to play a constructive role.

TASS: Today marks Russias Cosmonautics Day, 12 days away from Chinas Space Day. In recent years, Russia and China have stepped up exchanges and cooperation on aerospace and signed agreements on several projects, including an MOU on the joint construction of a lunar station. How would the Foreign Ministry comment on the cooperation potential of the two countries in this area, and what is your view on the prospect of the two countries engaging in space exploration at bilateral and international level?



Mao Ning: China values its space cooperation with Russia. In recent years, our two sides have had good cooperation on projects such as the International Lunar Research Station which contributes to socioeconomic development and sci-tech innovation in both countries.

Space exploration is humanitys common endeavor. China is committed to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. We are ready to have international space exchanges and cooperation with Russia and other countries on the basis of equality, mutual benefit, peaceful use and inclusive development.

Reuters: This is related to Japan Prime Minister Kishidas speech to US Congress yesterday. He said that Americans should not doubt the USs indispensable role in world affairs. He also said that the biggest challenge the world faces comes from China and that Chinas current external stands and military actions present an unprecedented and greatest strategic challenge. How does the Foreign Ministry respond to these remarks?



Mao Ning: China strongly deplores and firmly opposes Japans remarks. We have lodged serious representations to Japan. I would like to stress that China is always a force for world peace, a contributor to global development and a defender of international order. China is committed to peaceful development and a national defense policy that is defensive in nature. China has never initiated a war and does not pose a threat to any country. The US and Japan have been ganging up and stoking bloc confrontation. This is the real challenge facing peace and stability in the region.

Japans militarist past, marked by devastating wars of aggression and brutal crimes against humanity, brought untold suffering on this region and beyond. Japan needs to seriously reflect on its history of aggression, respect the security concerns of its Asian neighbors and stop hyping up so-called security threats in the region to find pretext for making breakthroughs in its military strength, so as not to further lose the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community.

China News Service: Severe droughts induced by El Nino have recently hit many countries in southern Africa with a relatively huge impact on their food production. Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia and some other countries declared a state of emergency or disaster, and called for international food assistance. Whats Chinas comment? Is China planning to provide assistance?



Mao Ning: China has been closely following the recent severe droughts and food shortages in southern Africa. We are collecting and preparing emergency food assistance to over 20 African countries such as Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia. We will seek to provide more food aid to the best of our capabilities in the future in light of the developments on the ground and the need of relevant countries.

Agriculture and food security is an important part of China-Africa friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation. Last August, President Xi Jinping announced the Plan for China Supporting Africas Agricultural Modernization at the China-Africa Leaders Dialogue. He said China will help Africa expand grain plantation, encourage Chinese companies to increase agricultural investment in Africa, and enhance cooperation with Africa on seed and other areas of agro-technology, to support Africa in transforming and upgrading its agricultural sector. China will continue working closely with Africa to deliver the above mentioned plan and deepen agricultural cooperation, and will support Africa in capacity-building on food security. We also call for more international attention to the droughts and food shortages facing the African countries and we urge the global community to consider providing them with food assistance as soon as possible and help African countries develop agriculture and better ability to achieve food self-sufficiency.

Bloomberg: Can you tell us a little bit more about the call between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Antony Blinken?



Mao Ning: I have nothing more to add.

NHK: Some Chinese media reported that the Director General of the Asian Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with Chief Minister of the Japanese Embassy in China regarding US-Japan-Philippines leaders summit. Would you give us some more details of this meeting today?



Mao Ning: As I have learned, China has lodged serious representations to Japan on the negative elements concerning China in the US-Japan leaders talks and the US-Japan-Philippines leaders summit. On the meeting you mentioned, let me check with my colleagues and get back to you.

CCTV: According to a report by the Boston University Global Development Policy Center, China has mainly focused on fossil fuels instead of renewable energy in its energy investment in Africa over the past 20 years. China needs to stop writing off investment in Africas green energy and advance Africas energy transition. Whats your comment?



Mao Ning: I noted the research report and hope the center will conduct a comparative study by releasing the data on how other countries galvanize Africas energy transition and help its socioeconomic development. I want to stress that China has firmly supported Africas sustainable development. Green development is not just a focus of the eight major initiatives and nine programs announced at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and implemented by both China and Africa. Its also an important area of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa.

In fact, China has implemented hundreds of projects on clean energy and green development in Africa. The installed capacity of photovoltaic power plants built by Chinese companies and Africa totaled over 1.5 gigawatts. China has set the pace in international green cooperation with Africa. In Morocco, the Noor and III solar-thermal power plants built by a Chinese company have provided clean energy to over one million Moroccan households and weaned the country off its long-standing dependence on electricity imports. In South Africa, the De Aar Wind Power Project invested and built by a Chinese company has provided local households with a steady supply of 760 million kWh of clean electricity per year. The project has met 300,000 households electricity demands, and cut 619.9 thousand tonnes of carbon emissions. In Uganda, the last unit of the Karuma Hydroelectric Power Station built by a Chinese company has been connected to the grid and generated electricity not long ago. This biggest hydro-power station in Uganda will increase the countrys installed capacity by close to 50 percent, save 1.31 million tonnes of raw coal and cut 3.48 million tonnes of carbon emissions every year which is equivalent to planting 1.5 million trees.

Green energy cooperation between China and Africa has lit up numerous homes in Africa at night and shone Africas way to sustainable development. China will continue expanding cooperation with Africa on renewable energy, energy conservation and emissions reduction, and helping Africa accelerate energy transition and develop in a green, low-carbon and high-quality way.

Bloomberg: US President Biden has said that he is committed to deepening maritime and security ties with Japan and the Philippines. He has said that China has been behaving aggressively at least in the USs eyes, especially around the Second Thomas Shoal. Biden has said that the US will respond to Chinese attack on the Philippines should this occur. Can you give me some comments on US President Bidens commitment to deepening maritime and security ties with Japan and the Philippines?



Mao Ning: What the US said is a serious mischaracterization of China. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this vicious accusation. I would like to stress the following:

First, China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao, including Renai Jiao, and the adjacent waters. China also has indisputable sovereignty over Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands. Chinas actions in the South and East China Seas are consistent with international law, and they are justified, lawful and beyond reproach.

Second, there has never been any problem with regard to freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. We firmly oppose relevant countries flexing muscles and acting like bullies in the South China Sea. And we are certainly opposed to relevant countries infringing on Chinas sovereignty, security and development interests under the pretext of freedom of navigation and overflight.

Third, the so-called arbitral award on the South China Sea is illegal, null and void. Chinas territorial sovereignty and rights and interests in the South China Sea shall under no circumstances be affected by the award.

Fourth, relevant countries, out of selfish interests, join countries outside the region and serve as their pawns to contain China. Our message to these countries: recent history tells us that eventually pawns will easily be abandoned.

Fifth, the US clings to the Cold War mentality and often threatens other countries with its bilateral alliance treaties. Such moves seriously violate the UN Charter and undermine regional stability. China will never waver in its commitment to upholding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and working with regional countries to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Reuters: Major US airlines and aviation unions on Thursday urged the Biden administration to pause approvals of additional flights between China and the United States. They cited ongoing anti-competitive policies of the Chinese government. Multiple industry associations told the US government to pause these flights until American workers and businesses are guaranteed equality of access in the marketplace. What is the Ministrys response to this?



Mao Ning: Id refer you to competent authorities on the specific question. More broadly, to increase direct flights between China and the US was something agreed between the two presidents in San Francisco. It will help promote exchanges and mutual understanding between the two peoples.

AFP: First, its reported that Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress Zhao Leji had talks with member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers Party of Korea Choe Ryong-Hae in Pyongyang on April 11. Zhao Leji said that China is willing to intensify exchanges and cooperation with the DPRKs legislative body to take the traditional friendship and cooperation between China and the DPRK to a higher level. What does intensify exchanges with the DPRKs legislative body mean? Second, during the visit, will the two sides arrange a meeting between the leaders of the two countries to be held later this year?



Mao Ning: It means literally to intensify exchanges between legislative bodies. On your second question, I have no information to share.

Bloomberg: Did Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Secretary of State Blinken talk about the South China Sea on that call?



Mao Ning: The two foreign ministers may have exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest, but I do not have the specific information on that.

Reuters: The Environmental Justice Foundation said in a report that Chinese fishing fleet is responsible for systemic illegal fishing and human rights abuses in countries bordering the southwest Indian Ocean. How does the Ministry respond to these findings? Will there be any actions taken by the Chinese authorities to look into what was reported?



Mao Ning: China attaches great importance to the protection of ecological environment and workers rights and interests. We follow a zero tolerance policy towards violations of laws and regulations, and make sure that crew members receive the working conditions and remuneration they deserve in accordance with the law. We oppose false allegations and smears which have no factual ground at all.

Shenzhen TV: We learned that 27 Chinese nationals have been safely evacuated from Haiti on April 11. Can you give us more details?



Mao Ning: After the security situation deteriorated in Haiti, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs together with relevant government agencies and local governments in China instructed our missions overseas to closely follow the situation, get timely updates on all Chinese nationals in Haiti, and do everything they can to protect their safety and organize orderly group evacuation. With concerted efforts, after 24 Chinese nationals were safely evacuated on March 22, another 27 Chinese nationals were safely evacuated to the Dominican Republic yesterday. So far, all Chinese nationals willing to leave Haiti have been safely evacuated. During that process, we also helped a Philippine national to safely evacuate from Haiti.

Bloomberg: A top US Treasury official called on the worlds largest creditors to take coordinated and decisive action to address the generational challenge of poor nations. In particular, this criticism was aimed at China which is the largest lender to emerging markets. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comment on the US Treasury officials claims that the worlds largest creditors including China should take coordinated and decisive action?



Mao Ning: On your specific question, Id refer you to the competent Chinese authorities. Let me say broadly that China attaches great importance to the debt issues facing developing countries. We have followed the principle of equal-footed consultation and mutually beneficial cooperation to help developing countries ease their debt burden and grow sustainably.

Bloomberg: Just to go back to a recent interview by Indias Prime Minister Modi where he seemed to be calling for peaceful ties with China and said that the two countries need to urgently address the prolonged situation at their borders. How can we understand the recent comments made on both sides in terms of the border issue? Is there some kind of improvement in ties between India and China? Whats the Chinese Foreign Ministrys view on Prime Minister Modis recent comments?



Mao Ning: China and India are in close communication through diplomatic and military channels to address issues related to the border situation, and have achieved positive progress. China believes that a sound and stable relationship is in the interest of both China and India. We hope that India will work with China to place the boundary question appropriately in bilateral relations and manage it properly, and put the relationship on a sound and steady track.
BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Ministry of National Defense hosted a seminar on international security cooperation in Beijing on Friday, a spokesperson for the ministry said.

Military attaches from foreign embassies in China and European Union (EU) military representatives in China attended the event held at the International College of Defense Studies of the University of National Defense, spokesperson Wu Qian told a regular press briefing.

The seminar invited leading officials and experts from relevant military and civilian departments to introduce the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity and the Global Security Initiative, Wu said.

Participants also discussed topics such as the international strategic situation, military education and training cooperation between China and foreign countries, as well as how to tackle global security challenges by strengthening international military cooperation. 
German telecommunications firm Deutsche Telekom is considering legal action against far-right politician Bjorn Hocke over claims Hocke made during a televised debate on Thursday evening.

Hocke, the leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the eastern state of Thuringia, is currently awaiting criminal trial for allegedly intentionally quoting the slogan of the Nazi Party's infamous SA stormtroopers during two speeches.

In the televised debate, Hocke tried to play down the allegations against him by claiming that Deutsche Telekom once used the slogan - "Alles fur Deutschland" (Everything for Germany) - as an advertising campaign several years ago.

"The allegation is false. We are passing it on to our lawyers," said a Deutsche Telekom spokesman on Friday.

Hocke is set to go on trial on the charges next week. Using symbols and slogans of Adolf Hitler's Nazi Party is strictly prohibited in Germany.

The Deutsche Telekom spokesman said the company already took action against AfD national co-chairwoman Alice Weidel last summer for making the same claim in an interview.

"She has promised to refrain from making the claim in future," the company said.

Hocke, who is a history teacher, had justified his choice of words in the TV duel and claimed that he had not known during the speech that it was an SA slogan.

It was a "commonplace slogan," he said.

On Friday, the court handling the case in the eastern city of Halle agreed to add a second count of incitement to the charges against Hocke for allegedly repeating the phrase again in a later speech.
Police officers interrupt the Palestine Congress 2024. German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event. Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event.

Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany.

When the man spoke police cut off the transmission and temporarily switched off the power to the venue for the "Palestine Congress," which was organized by various pro-Palestinian groups.

Before the start of the meeting, politicians including Berlin Mayor Kai Wegener as well as the police had announced that they would take firm action if any anti-Semitic statements or criminal offences were committed at the meeting.

Organizers of the conference had decried Israel's ongoing military offensive in the Gaza Strip, and attacked the German government's support for the Israeli government.

"Together, with the voices of the Palestinian movement and the international community, we will denounce Israeli apartheid and genocide. We accuse Germany of being complicit," according to the event website.

Israel launched the offensive after the Palestinian militant group Hamas led unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7 that left more than 1,200 dead.

More than 33,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war, according to the Health Ministry there, which is controlled by Hamas.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser had told dpa ahead of the event that "anyone spreading Islamist propaganda and hatred against Jews must know that they will be prosecuted quickly and consistently."

Berlin police deployed around 900 officers to keep watch on the conference and any pro-Palestinian demonstrations, summoning reinforcements from western Germany to bolster their forces, a police spokeswoman told dpa.

The crowd waiting to enter the hall on Friday chanted slogans including "Viva, Viva Palestine" and "Germany finances, Israel bombs." Some waved Palestinian flags outside the building.

"It is intolerable that a so-called Palestine Conference is taking place in Berlin," Wegner, a politician from the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU), told dpa earlier in a written statement.

"We do not tolerate anti-Semitism, hatred and incitement against Jews in Berlin."

Police in Berlin have taken a generally tough stance toward pro-Palestinian protesters since the start of the war in the Gaza Strip.

Authorities have put strict conditions on pro-Palestinian demonstrations, or banned them outright, citing concerns that anti-Israeli statements could cross the line into outright anti-Semitism.

Protesters and critics, however, have accused authorities in Berlin of violating democratic freedoms of speech and assembly with the crackdowns.

The number of participants at the congress was limited by the police to 250 per day for fire safety reasons.

Police officers stand in the event room after the police broke up the first day of the Palestine Congress 2024. German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event. Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

A police officer addresses a participant in the event room after the police broke up the first day of the Palestine Congress 2024. German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event. Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa
Police officers interrupt the Palestine Congress 2024. German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event. Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event.

Officers had earlier intervened during remarks via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany due to hate speech against Israel and Jews.

When the man spoke police cut off the transmission and temporarily switched off the power to the venue for the "Palestine Congress," which was organized by various pro-Palestinian groups.

Law enforcement officials then deliberated over their next steps before cancelling the event - not just on Friday, but Saturday and Sunday, too.

A police spokesman said officers made the decision because they saw the risk "that such anti-Semitic, violence-glorifying and Holocaust-denying speeches could be repeated at the event."

Organizers said they are considering whether to take legal action.

Before the start of the event politicians including Berlin Mayor Kai Wegener as well as the police had announced that they would take firm action if any anti-Semitic statements or criminal offences were committed at the meeting.

Organizers of the conference had decried Israel's ongoing military offensive in the Gaza Strip, and attacked the German government's support for the Israeli government.

"Together, with the voices of the Palestinian movement and the international community, we will denounce Israeli apartheid and genocide. We accuse Germany of being complicit," according to the event website.

Israel launched the offensive after the Palestinian militant group Hamas led unprecedented attacks on Israel on October 7 that left more than 1,200 dead.

More than 33,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war, according to the Health Ministry there, which is controlled by Hamas.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser had told dpa ahead of the event that "anyone spreading Islamist propaganda and hatred against Jews must know that they will be prosecuted quickly and consistently."

Berlin police deployed around 900 officers to keep watch on the conference and any pro-Palestinian demonstrations, summoning reinforcements from western Germany to bolster their forces, a police spokeswoman told dpa.

The crowd waiting to enter the hall on Friday chanted slogans including "Viva, Viva Palestine" and "Germany finances, Israel bombs." Some waved Palestinian flags outside the building.

"It is intolerable that a so-called Palestine Conference is taking place in Berlin," Wegner, a politician from the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU), told dpa earlier in a written statement.

"We do not tolerate anti-Semitism, hatred and incitement against Jews in Berlin."

Police in Berlin have taken a generally tough stance toward pro-Palestinian protesters since the start of the war in the Gaza Strip.

Authorities have put strict conditions on pro-Palestinian demonstrations, or banned them outright, citing concerns that anti-Israeli statements could cross the line into outright anti-Semitism.

Protesters and critics, however, have accused authorities in Berlin of violating democratic freedoms of speech and assembly with the crackdowns.

The number of participants at the congress was limited by the police to 250 per day for fire safety reasons.

As they left the venue on Friday evening, they chanted "Shame on you" in English at the police.

Police officers stand in the event room after the police broke up the first day of the Palestine Congress 2024. German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event. Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

A police officer addresses a participant in the event room after the police broke up the first day of the Palestine Congress 2024. German police on Friday broke up a pro-Palestinian conference in the capital Berlin and asked some 250 participants to leave the venue just two hours into the three-day event. Officers had already intervened in the event during a speech via video by an activist who is banned from political activity in Germany. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa
Germany to give Holocaust survivors $236 payout to help them cope with October 7 attacks

Germany will provide a one-time payment of $236 (220) to Holocaust survivors, to help them cope with the impacts of the Hamas-led October 7 attacks in southern Israel.

Berlin will compensate 113,000 Holocaust survivors in Israel in the form of $27 million (25 million), according to the German finance ministry.

Many Holocaust survivors were hit particularly hard by the Hamas attacks, whether through the loss of their homes, support systems in the form of care, a German finance ministry spokeswoman said.

The additional funds were aimed at helping the Holocaust survivors as quickly as possible () in this frightening and hopeless war situation, the spokeswoman added.

The Hamas-led murderous rampage into southern Israel was the deadliest terror attack in Israels history, killing at least 1,200 people and abducting more than 250 others.

Israeli attacks on Gaza have since killed at least 33,634 Palestinians and injured another 76,214 people, according to the Ministry of Health there. Human Rights Watch and Oxfam last month accused Israel of carrying out indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks in violation of international law.

Each of the 113,000 Jewish survivors in Israel will receive the $236 as a one-off payment, according to the nonprofit Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference)  a Jewish umbrella organization that seeks damages for Holocaust survivors and which worked with the German government on the scheme.

The payments are being distributed in Israel in cooperation with the Claims Conference and the Holocaust Survivors Rights Authority of the Israeli government, the German finance ministry said.

Gideon Taylor, president of the Claims Conference, praised the payment scheme, saying, The additional symbolic acknowledgment payment by Germany to Holocaust survivors in Israel is a message of solidarity.

The German Finance Ministry added, This exceptional and stressful situation for the victims of the Holocaust, which has been exacerbated by the anti-Semitism being expressed around the world, the payment of 25 million euros was intended as a gesture of solidarity and support from Germany to Israel.

German politicians have repeatedly stated that Israels security is Germanys reason of state  the term is a reference to Germanys special relationship with Israel due to the Holocaust, in which Germany systematically murdered 6 million Jews under Adolf Hitlers Nazi regime.

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A Republican lawmaker in Maine was censured by his colleagues after implying that the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history was punishment from God for a recently passed abortion law.

During debate on a bill on reproductive and gender-affirming care on the House floor Wednesday, state Rep. Michael Lemelin called the legislation "the purest form of evil" and then compared it to Legislative Document 1619, a bill to expand abortion access that went into effect in October.

Pointing to the Lewiston mass shooting and four recent large storms in the state, Lemelin said that God "draws a line in the sand, and when we crossed that line, there's consequences."

"When 1619 passed and went into law on Oct. 25, you told God life doesn't matter," he said.

"Keep in mind that the law went into effect on Oct. 25. God heard you and the horrible events on Oct. 25 happened," he added.

Yesterday Rep. Michael Lemelin (R-Chelsea) insinuated that the enactment of LD1619, a bill expanding abortion rights, caused the October mass shooting in Lewiston as a result of God's wrath. We are dismayed by this reprehensible statement and lack of empathy for the victims. pic.twitter.com/4oorSxmxSO  Maine House Democratic Campaign Committee (@MaineHDCC) April 11, 2024

The Lewiston mass shooting on Oct. 25 was the worst in Maine's history. A gunman killed 18 people in two separate locations, and a nationwide manhunt ensued before he was found dead two days later. An independent commission put together by Gov. Janet Mills found that local law enforcement should have been able to confiscate the shooter's guns and take him into protective custody weeks before the shooting.

Conservatives have long blamed mass shootings on a whole host of reasons: video games, gender identity, the dissolution of the traditional nuclear family, buildings having too many doors, the human heart. But Lemelin's remarks were upsetting enough that they earned condemnation from lawmakers from both parties  except for Republican state Rep. Shelley Rudnicki, who told the chamber that she agreed with Lemelin.

Both Lemelin and Rudnicki were censured Thursday. Your remarks were extremely offensive and intentionally harmful to the victims and the families of the Lewiston tragedy, the House of Representatives, and the people of Maine, Democratic House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross wrote in a letter to Lemelin.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Governor Ron DeSantis signed two new laws he contends will protect first responders from harassment on the job, and shield them from misconduct investigations by boards Republicans have characterized as politically motivated.

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Democratic lawmakers argue whether its observing law enforcement on the street or giving citizens the authority to investigate alleged misconduct on the back end, the new laws will make police less accountable to the community they serve.

The first law (SB 184), makes it a crime to harass first responders and authorizes police, fire, and EMS officials to declare a 25-foot no-go zone while they carry out their official duties.

Ignoring the warning and coming too close with the intent to impede, harass, or threaten a first responder could result in 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

You shouldnt be in a situation where youre at a traffic stop, youre responding to a call of someone in distress and then you have people come trying to interdict or trying to harass you, said DeSantis.

But State Representative Angie Nixon (D-Jacksonville) argued the bill is ambiguous.

Nixon contended the removal of language during the legislative session that had explicitly protected the publics right to film would make it riskier to observe and document police interactions.

We know that George Floyd was killed, executed basically, and if that wasnt caught on camera that police officer may not have been arrested, Nixon stated.

RELATED: Gov. DeSantis signs law to ban local governments from setting worker heat exposure, wage requirements

The second law signed by DeSantis Friday (HB 601), restricts the states 21 existing citizen review boards by prohibiting them from investigating alleged misconduct by individual law enforcement officers.

Sponsor State Representative Wyman Duggan argued the goal is to ensure police arent prosecuted in the court of public opinion.

They can still have all kinds of interactions, conversations with the wider community, which we all want, but they cannot be used as a vehicle to persecute an individual officer who has already been through an internal affairs investigation at their own agency, said Duggan.

Duggan noted there are several existing layers of accountability for law enforcement officers.

The Florida Criminal Justice Standards Training Commission, the local state attorney, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida attorney General, the US Attorney and the FBI. Thats seven other forums where an officers misconduct can be investigated, said Duggan.

Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation to Support Law Enforcement https://t.co/tAU4Aw28CP  Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) April 12, 2024

Angie Nixon, on the other hand, argued the bill guts the already limited ability of citizens to hold bad actors accountable.

She pointed to the recent arrest of a JSO officer who had been previously involved in multiple high-profile alleged misconduct incidents, including the fatal shooting of Jayme Johnson, as evidence more oversight is needed, not less.

If cops and law enforcement officers are doing the right thing, then they should be fine with citizens just looking out to make sure that nothing was done wrong, said Nixon.

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Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters office supported the legislation this session.

Now more than ever, it is imperative that the actions of law enforcement officers are judged by fact and not emotion. Im grateful for this legislation as I believe it will allow our dedicated law enforcement professionals to continue serving this city with unwavering confidence in their abilities, said Sheriff Waters in a statement sent to Action News Jax.

The legislation does permit sheriffs and police chiefs throughout the state to establish and appoint their citizen oversight boards.

Those boards would be limited to analyzing and reviewing agency policy and procedures.

Duggan told Action News Jax his legislation also does not prevent local governments from keeping their current citizen review boards or even from establishing new ones, so long as they comply with the new restrictions.

But Nixon predicted without the ability to investigate individual allegations of misconduct, its unlikely the boards will continue to operate.

Despite what my colleague says, thats not the case. A lot of the boards are going to cease to exist, said Nixon.

The new restrictions on citizen review boards will kick in on July 1st.

The new penalties for harassing first responders on duty kick in on January 1st, 2025.

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TOPEKA (KSNT)  On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly signed a bill increasing compensation, services and support for crime victims.

House Bill 2781 will increase funding for the Crime Victims Assistance Fund and double compensation to victims. Victims will see weekly compensation increase from $400 to $800, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor.

Increasing compensation for crime victims will allow survivors greater access to the resources they need to overcome trauma, Kelly said. Thanks to this bill, survivors of crime will be better supported to receive the care they need to achieve stability and independence.

The Crime Victims Compensation Board will now be able to provide mental health counseling and will have extra flexibility in awarding compensation to victims.

Alma man recalls being hit by train in Jackson Co.

We have an obligation to assist victims as they recover, said Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach. This new law doesnt erase their trauma, but being able to provide more and better financial assistance to crime victims helps restore a piece of their lives.

For more Capitol Bureau news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is now banned from some parts of her home state after tribes voted to legally bar her from reservation land, after she made comments linking tribal leaders to drug cartels.

Three tribes this year have barred Noem, whos on former President Donald Trumps vice president short list, from visiting their lands, with the latest action from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe announced on Wednesday. In February, the Oglala Sioux Tribe voted to bar Noem, and earlier this month, the Cheyenne River Sioux also voted to bar her as well. In all, Noem now is legally barred from entering about 10% of lands in the state she governs.

She argued during recent community forums that those leaders were more focused on profiting from those cartels than parenting their children on Native American reservations.

Weve got some tribal leaders that I believe are personally benefiting from cartels being there and thats why they attack me every day, Noem said last month at a community forum in Winner, South Dakota, according to the Associated Press.

Multiple tribes demanded that Noem apologize. She has not, but she has issued a statement urging tribes to banish the cartels from tribal lands.

Governor Kristi Noems wild and irresponsible attempt to connect tribal leaders and parents with Mexican drug cartels is a sad reflection of her fear-based politics that do nothing to bring people together to solve problems, Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Council Janet Alkire said in a statement. Rather than make uninformed and unsubstantiated claims, Noem should work with tribal leaders to increase funding and resources for tribal law enforcement and education.

Noems office argued that banning her from parts of South Dakota wont solve the problems she had been referring to in her comments at the community forums.

Banishing Governor Noem does nothing to solve the problem, Noem spokesman Ian Fury said in a statement. She calls on all our tribal leaders to banish the cartels from tribal lands.

In a previous statement to CNN, Noem said Mexican cartels had impacted South Dakota and that the state was also the victim of inaction by the federal government on those cartels.

Noem has made a point of warning about border security and Mexican cartels in recent public comments. In a January speech to a joint session of state legislators Noem described the flood of migrants coming through the Southern border as an invasion in a war zone and said she was willing to send razor wire and state personnel to the US-Mexico border in Texas to supplement officials there.

We can load that up, and we can send it there very quickly, Noem said. Were currently exploring various legal options on how we can support Texas and force the federal government to do their job.

The hawkish border security comments will only fuel more speculation that Noem is gunning for consideration as Trumps running mate. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee has made border security and vows to reduce illegal migration a major pillar of his candidacy.

On Thursday, Noem and South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced a new certification program meant to help more quickly train tribal law enforcement. In a letter to the chief of police of the Oglala Sioux Tribe law enforcement, the two South Dakota officials wrote, People in tribal communities continue to suffer because of the well-documented shortage of tribal law enforcement officers. This hurts all of South Dakotas nine reservations, so we are taking the lead on training more officers as quickly as possible.

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This article was originally published in Arkansas Advocate.

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders used Wednesdays State of the State address to tout her ongoing policy priorities, primarily education and law enforcement, and urge state lawmakers to pass her proposed state budget.

Send me a budget that funds critical services for Arkansans while slowing the growth of government and I will sign it, Sanders told members of the House and Senate during a joint session on the first day of the states eighth fiscal session.

The $6.3 billion general revenue budget proposal includes a significantly smaller spending increase  $109 million, or 1.76%  compared to previous fiscal years annual 3% hikes.

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Sanders reiterated that the proposal fulfills her promise to slow the out-of-control growth of government.

Arkansas had deep, entrenched problems when I took office, she said. We werent going to solve them with the same failed policies that got us here in the first place, so we charted a new course last year.

She listed as accomplishments several policies enacted so far in her term, including two laws cutting income taxes, plans to open a new 3,000-bed prison, an executive order banning certain gender-neutral terms in government documents and a social media age verification law, which has been temporarily blocked in court.

Sanders also emphasized her dedication to funding and empowering law enforcement and said her budget proposal includes $3.8 million that would replenish the ranks of the Arkansas State Police. She also said she wants to add 100 new officers to the force.

There are people outside this chamber  and even a few inside  who want to distract us from these common-sense reforms, Sanders said. I beg of you: do not let them.

Education policy

After prioritizing education during her first year in office, Sanders praised the success of the states new school voucher program.

New participant applications opened April 1, and Sanders said more than 1,800 applications were submitted on the first day. About a quarter of new Educational Freedom Account program applicants are children of active military duty personnel and veterans, she said. The latter group is newly eligible for the program, which is being phased in over three years.

Educational freedom is the least that we can do for those who put everything on the line for our freedom, Sanders said. This time next year, we will have universal education freedom for the first time in Arkansas history.

The EFA program is a provision of the LEARNS Act, an expansive education law backed by Sanders that has made several changes to the states education system since its passage last year.

The governors proposed budget includes $100 million to support LEARNS initiatives. A proposed $65.8 million spending increase for the EFA program accounts for roughly 60% of the budget proposals overall increase.

The voucher program provides state funding for allowable education expenses, such as private school tuition. More than 5,400 students and 100 schools participated in the programs first year. Eligibility criteria is being expanded each year until the program is open to all Arkansas students in the 2025-2026 academic year.

Before this year, Arkansas families had no choice where to send their kids to school, Sanders said. LEARNS expanded education freedom to more than 5,000 students in just one year. Fifty percent of those students have learning disabilities.

The Arkansas Legislature passed limited school choice legislation prior to the LEARNS Act. The Public School Choice Act of 2015 allows students to transfer to a nonresident district, while the Opportunity School Choice Act permits students in a school with an F-rating or in need of Level 5 Intensive support from the state to transfer to another public school.

The Legislature in 2015 also created the Succeed Scholarship Program, which provided private school tuition for students with disabilities, foster children and military families. The program has been absorbed into the EFA program.

In addition to the voucher program, the LEARNS Act also raises the states minimum teacher salary to $50,000 and prohibits indoctrination in Arkansas schools. Sanders signed an executive order with similar phrasing regarding indoctrination on her first day in office.

The governor said Wednesday that she was proud to have enacted the policy for the sake of our childrens future.

Three Little Rock Central High students, their parents and the schools AP African American Studies teacher sued the indoctrination clause in federal court last month, saying its unworkably vague and oppressive, and it discriminates on the basis of race.

Arkansas Advocate is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Arkansas Advocate maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sonny Albarado for questions: info@arkansasadvocate.com. Follow Arkansas Advocate on Facebook and Twitter.
Government awards $45B to company treating over 50M gallons of leaking radioactive waste: 'One of our nation's most important environmental challenges'

A 10-year contract has been re-awarded to a Virginia company tasked with cleaning up millions of gallons of radioactive and chemical waste.

The Tri-City Herald reported Hanford Tank Waste Operations and Closure, or H2C, has been granted $45 billion by the U.S. Department of Energy to perform the work at the Hanford Site.

The 580-square-mile site, located in the state of Washington, produced almost two-thirds of the plutonium for the country's nuclear weapons program from World War II through the Cold War.

This resulted in 56 million gallons of radioactive and hazardous waste being stored underground in tanks, raising fears of future contamination.

As detailed on Hanford's official website, millions of gallons of the hazardous liquids had already seeped into the soil during the nuclear program, resulting in groundwater treatment systems eventually being installed to mitigate the issue.

In August 2022, the DOE and Washington State Department of Ecology also signed an Agreed Order with their eyes on responding to existing leaks and preventing further contamination.

H2C was first awarded the Hanford Integrated Tank Disposition Contract in April 2023, but Hanford Tank Disposition Alliance (HTDA) appealed the decision in hopes of securing the funds before losing its bid. H2C is now tasked with single-shell tank retrieval and closure and the design, construction, and operation of waste facilities, according to the DOE.

Environmental health and safety are paramount to those aims, and security and emergency services are also part of the H2C's responsibilities. Water contamination, whether through plastic pollution or hazardous waste, is known to have a wide range of harmful impacts on local ecosystems and human health.

The Hanford site partially feeds into the Columbia River, whose basin goes through seven U.S. states, providing irrigation for crops, drinking water for multiple communities, and serving as home to millions of salmon  a vital food source that is also being negatively impacted by changing global temperatures driven by human-made pollution.

According to Washington's Department of Ecology, significant progress has been made in cleaning up the Hanford Site, but roughly "60 square miles of groundwater remains contaminated above federal standards."

As part of its contract, H2C will turn much of the remaining hazardous waste into glass for "permanent disposal," as reported by the Tri-City Herald for The Daily News. The Herald added that a 120-day transition period is in place as H2C takes over from Washington River Protection Solutions, which had been leading cleanup efforts on short-term contracts since 2008.

"Amentum and our partners have a tremendous track record of treating waste and managing nuclear operations around the DOE complex," Amentum National Security Group president Mark Whitney told the outlet. "We will bring the most advanced technologies and experienced team to help solve one of our nation's most important environmental challenges."

Some might be eager for H2C to spearhead the cleanup, but it appears things are tied up in court for the time being. At the end of March, HTDA filed a second appeal with the aim of securing the 10-year contract, per Washington Technology.

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SANTIAGO, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Chilean President Gabriel Boric said on Thursday that he will recall his country's ambassador to Venezuela, Jaime Gazmuri, for consultations after Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil denied the existence of the transnational criminal group Tren de Aragua.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Boric said he decided to consult with the diplomat "with the objective of gathering detailed information about the current situation in the country and instructing him to take all necessary actions both with the Venezuelan government and also international organizations."

Earlier this week, Gil dismissed "Tren de Aragua" as a "false narrative" and a "fiction created by the international media to create a non-existent label."

In his message, Boric said such statements were "irresponsible," "concerning" and a "serious insult to the victims of this organization."

"They demonstrate a lack of commitment to the needed international cooperation in matters of security, which is neither fair nor tolerable," Boric said.

Similarly, Chile's Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Carolina Toha, said Gil's statements constitute an offense to Latin Americans, and Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren called Venezuela's position "unacceptable denialism." 
Morris Broaster protects himself from the rain with a plastic bag as he waits for the bus last month in Los Angeles. The National Weather Service predicts the region will record anywhere from a quarter-inch to an inch of rain this weekend. (Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)

Spring is nearly a month old but it's about to feel like winter as another Pacific storm is expected to bring rain and snowfall across the state  the latest in a series of soggy weekends.

Angelenos were just beginning to get a taste of springtime warmth, especially on Tuesday, when temperatures hit a peak of 77 degrees in the city. But a storm front that is moving into Southern California on Friday night is expected to bring downright chilly temperatures throughout Los Angeles County, said National Weather Service meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld.

"Temperatures are going to drop pretty drastically," Schoenfeld said of Saturday's frigid weather. "Temperatures are going to struggle to even break into the 60s for most areas. Some areas [will even stay] in the upper 50s."

That cold weather coupled with gusts of up to 25 to 40 mph across the state will make for a wet and chilly weekend for L.A. County residents as the National Weather Service predicts the region will record anywhere from a quarter-inch to an inch of rain.

The mountainous regions near the Sierra Nevada and Mammoth Lakes will receive 4 to 8 inches of snow in the upper peaks ranging from 6,000 to 8,500 feet elevation. The snowfall is expected to push water levels to 123% of normal for this season, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Edan Lindaman.

Reno meteorologists typically no longer closely watch the snowpack after April 1 because Lindaman said the warmer spring weather makes it hard for snow to substantially accumulate. But in recent years, cold spring storms have become more common.

Read more: Repairs on Big Sur's collapsed Highway 1 start this week. No telling when they will end

"Last year we had several more systems that actually brought quite a few more snow and rain showers and kept things cooler and wetter, even through May and into June," Lindaman said. "So this kind of variability is pretty common, especially for springtime."

Lindaman warned mountaineers to be wary of road conditions as any snowpack might affect their drive, although the concern has not risen to the level of an official advisory warning for the weekend.

Read more: GoPros, gummies, reckless abandon: Why ski slopes are getting more dangerous

A landslide near Big Sur caused by heavy winter rains will close Highway 1 to motorists Saturday because of the approaching storm.

Roger Gass, a National Weather Service meteorologist in the Bay Area, said there's always a chance the wet weather could exacerbate existing landslide threats "as soil moisture remains very saturated."

"Pay attention to the roadways if you're driving into hilly terrain," Gass said, adding that "the larger threat of flooding concerns are minimal."

In Southern California, Schoenfeld said there's a 10% to 20% possibility of thunderstorms that could bring heavy rains and flash flooding to areas.

"But there's no particular area of concern at this moment," Schoenfeld said. "We're not expecting widespread issues like that."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A heartfelt reunion tonight as members of the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office met the woman they rescued after her car hydroplaned into a retention pond. Action News Jax first told you when it happened two months ago.

Georgina Ortiz says if it werent for the quick actions of the JSO patrol officers, she wouldnt be here today. She says she wanted to meet them to say thank you in person  especially because she says she has a lot to live for as a single mother with a child with special needs.

Its so good to see you guys, Ortiz said as she reunited with the officers.

Its not every day survivors get to meet their heroes, but tonight, Ortiz did.

She got emotional up as she told them, I seriously appreciate all your help, honestly. You guys made sure that again, a mother was able to come back home and it seriously means the world to me. It definitely means a lot to my son as well.

Lots of tears as Ortiz thanked three JSO officers for saving her life.

Every single day Ive just been so grateful for everything you guys have done, Ortiz said.

Its a morning she says she will never forget. At 5 a.m. on February 18th, Ortiz says she had just dropped off her 9-year-old son at the babysitters house when her car hydroplaned into a retention pond. She says the roads were slick when she lost control of her car while taking the St. Johns Bluff exit off I-295. Ortiz immediately called 911.

In the 911 call, you could her saying, Im in the lake, Im in the lake. My car is going in  its going in the lake. Its going in the lake, please, please help me.

She also recorded video as water filled her car.

Everything was happening so fast, Ortiz said. Right as the car got dark, the water was rising towards my chest, and thats when they broke in through a window and pulled me out in time.

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She said the only thing that mattered in that moment was surviving for her son who has autism.

I didnt want to die, I kept on thinking about my son the entire time, Ortiz said. Im the only one that my son has in Florida.

Ortiz says she has survived a lot of traumas in her life  including an abusive relationship.

READ: Bradford women rescued from car after crashing into retention pond

For me and my sons safety, we had to relocate to a different part of Florida, which is also why its important that I was able to express that gratitude it to the people that rescued me, Ortiz said.

The officers all said they were happy to see her live and well with a smile on her face.

After the reunion, the officers gave Ortiz and her son a special ride home.

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Now, because she lost her car in the accident, Ortiz says she is currently using public transportation, Ubers, and a bike.

But when Ortiz gets another car, she says will buy safety equipment for her car, including a hammer to bust out her window.

If you want to help Ortiz, you can access her GoFundMe page.

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Astronomers announced on April 5 that they may have detected a collision between a neutron star and a lightweight mystery object  an object larger than the largest known neutron star, but smaller than the smallest known black hole . The finding sheds light on objects that exist in this murky realm, which was long thought to be empty but, in recent times, has revealed otherwise.

More specifically, a signal detected in a pocket of the universe roughly 650 million light-years from Earth indicates a rare merger between a neutron star and what astronomers suspect is a surprisingly lightweight black hole. The pair would have danced around one another and merged about 650 million years ago, generating ripples in the fabric of space and time known as gravitational waves. These waves were sensed and flagged on May 29, 2023 by a network of antennas in Japan, Italy and the U.S. associated with the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK) collaboration.

"These are rare events," Evan Goetz, a LIGO researcher at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada, told Space.com. "It's very exciting for the community to study as the first one of its type."

Related: Heaviest pair of black holes ever seen weighs 28 billion times more than the sun

The black hole candidate, which is about 2.5 to 4.5 times heavier than our sun, is heavier than the established limit of 2.5 suns for a neutron star  but lighter than the lightest known black hole, which weighs about five solar masses. This places the newfound object within the "mass gap," a mysterious region that separates the heaviest neutron stars from the lightest black holes.

This discovery "hints at this 'mass gap' being less empty than astronomers previously thought," Michael Zevin, an astrophysicist at the Adler Planetarium, said in a statement .

Black holes, small and big, are born from the violent deaths of immensely massive stars. A few models of how stars evolve, however, predict black holes with masses within the "mass gap" range cannot directly form from such stellar deaths.

"It does appear that it could be possible now with these observations," Goetz said. Perhaps, he says, astronomers need to tweak the models  or maybe "we really do have a more complicated evolution of a heavy neutron star that evolved into a black hole."

"It's hard to know just from this one example," he said.

In early 2020 , astronomers announced the first conclusive detection of gravitational waves created by a collision which involved a stellar remnant right in the mass gap range. However, the discovery team couldn't classify the object with conviction at the time, concluding it could be either the biggest known neutron star or the smallest known black hole.

As for the latest finding, astronomers say they cannot pinpoint just where in the sky the mammoth objects merged because only one LVK detector was recording data when the signal was detected. Nevertheless, the finding has raised hopes that there may be many more such mass-gap objects out there waiting to be discovered.

"There is a lot more potentially we could find and a lot more to look forward to," Heather Fong, a LIGO researcher at UBC, told Space.com.

Related Stories:

 Colliding black holes 'ring' across space-time with gravitational wave ripples

 Colliding black holes could hide in the light of superbright quasars

 2 merging supermassive black holes spotted at 'cosmic noon' in early universe

After a short maintenance break, LVK detectors resumed measuring ripples in space-time on April 10. The LIGO team anticipates observing over 200 gravitational wave signals by February 2025, including hints of a few objects within the elusive mass-gap range.

The discovery was presented at the American Physical Society meeting on Friday (April 5) and is awaiting peer review.

Editor's update 4/11: This is the first merger confirmed between a mass-gap object and a neutron star; mergers between black holes and neutron stars have been detected in the past. This article has been updated to reflect that.
Great horned owl that lived near Lincoln Parks North Pond may have died from rat poison, experts say

After a small family of owls made Lincoln Parks North Pond their home this spring, Chicago residents flocked to the area to try to catch a glimpse of the two great horned owls raising their young.

But, the father of the family, an adult male owl, was found unresponsive by the Chicago Bird Collision Monitors midday Wednesday. According to Annette Prince, executive director of the organization, the horned owl died shortly after being rescued.

The group suspects the male owl consumed a rat tainted by rat poison.

They lived in a tree facing Cannon Drive, Prince said. The father would hunt for the family, and the mom would stay with the young. People have told me they saw him feeding on things like rats and mice.

The owl was found vomiting blood, which is often a sign of rat poison, according to Prince. She said the only other option that could cause that kind of internal bleeding is blunt force trauma, which seems unlikely since the owl appeared externally unharmed.

Prince added that rat poison is common in birds rescued by her organization in Chicago.

We see this often with many of the hawks that we rescue in Chicago, Prince said. They will prey on mice and rats that have gotten doses of poison. Many of us bird groups have been talking about ways to get municipalities to look for non-toxic alternatives to control rats and mice.

The owl was sent to the Willowbrook Wildlife Center to determine a cause of death, according to Prince. A representative from the Willowbrook center said vets were unable to confirm the owls cause of death, though there was some evidence to suggest rodent poisoning had contributed.

Almost 4 million great horned owls can be found in a variety of habitats across North America, including in Illinois. The second-heaviest owl species in America after snowy owls, great horned owls are known for their hunting skills, big yellow eyes, deep hoots and the feather tufts on their heads. They nest as early as January, since their owlets need more time than other young birds to learn to hunt on their own ahead of the next winter.

Red crossbills, bald eagles and other unexpected birds have been spotted in Chicago this winter

Holly Fales Garvey is a volunteer environmental educator and a raptor specialist based in Antioch. She said she sees a lot of raptors and eagles injured or killed by rodent poison.

Garvey said rodent poison can travel up the food chain, affecting far more than just rodents and birds. Animals as big as coyotes and foxes have been affected by the poison, she said.

Any animals that scavenge or are predatory and are hunting, consuming sick and dying prey, are susceptible to this poison, she said. So this is really quite common. Weve seen it in cats and dogs, and even children have been treated.

Garvey said there are many alternatives to poison for Chicagoans looking to ward off rodents. Snap traps and electric traps, as well as commercially available contraceptives for rat populations, are all options that are less likely to harm other animals, she said.

Garvey suggested homeowners calling a pet control service request that the service not use rodenticide.

Groups such as the Willowbrook Wildlife Center have been working on solutions to these poisonings, using methods such as blood transfusions to replace the dangerous chemicals in birds bloodstreams, according to Prince.

But, Prince added, the end goal is to stop birds from dying from rodent poisoning altogether.

The primary prey of many birds are these small mammals that people are hoping to kill with rodenticide, Garvey said. If we have healthy bird populations, theyre going to do a lot of that work for us. If we allow these birds to do what they need to do, and work in their ecosystems, that is going to do a lot for us.
Haiti has formalized a new presidential transitional council that will help to move the embattled nation toward peace after the Caribbean island has been consumed by gang violence and left with almost no government.

A decree was published Friday establishing the new nine-member council in Le Moniteur, the official gazette of the Haitian government, according to local Haitian outlets. The decree states a goal of securing peace in the country and moving toward elections, with the formation of various governmental bodies to achieve those aims.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), an organization made up of regional nations, welcomed the arrival of the new council as the possibility of a new beginning for Haiti.

CARICOM has supported Haiti, its sister nation, through the challenging process of arriving at a Haitian owned formula for governance that will take the troubled country through elections to the restoration of the lapsed state institutions and constitutional government, the group said in a statement.

Haiti plunged into violence after the 2021 assassination of  Haitian President Jovenel Moise, and gang violence has grown particularly rampant in the past year.

Gangs have run amok in the capitol of Port-au-Prince, pushing the island nation into a humanitarian crisis that the United Nations and aid groups say is teetering on the brink of a complete collapse.

The violence and demands from gang leaders forced Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry to step down last month. The U.S., U.N. and CARICOM want to restore order with a Kenyan-led police force, but Kenya paused its deployment in the wake of Henrys resignation because there was no official government to work with.

The transitional council is viewed by regional countries as a step toward securing peace in Haiti.

In the decree shared by Haitian outlets, officials said Haiti must hold elections by February 2026. Haiti has not had an election since 2016 and has been without a president since 2021.

The decree also outlines steps toward constitutional and election reform and economic recovery.

CARICOM said the first priority for the new council will be to address the security situation so that Haitians can go about their daily lives in a normal manner and get access to food, water and other critical services.

There are still daunting challenges ahead, the organization said in the statement. CARICOM stands ready to continue to support the Haitian people and their leaders as they determine their future in a sovereign manner through this transitional period on the path to stability, security and long-term sustainable development for Haiti.

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PHNOM PENH, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia is preparing to celebrate its traditional Lunar New Year, the Year of the Dragon, which will start on Saturday.

Hundreds of thousands of migrant workers have begun to leave the capital Phnom Penh for their hometowns in various provinces in order to enjoy the holiday with their family members.

Chum Sina, a 35-year-old deliveryman for a private company in Phnom Penh, said the traditional New Year is the most important occasion for a family gathering.

"This is a special occasion for a family reunion," he told Xinhua on Friday while taking a bus with his wife and a son to his hometown in Pursat province, about 200 km northwest of Phnom Penh.

"I usually visit my hometown twice a year on the occasions of the Pchum Ben festival, or Ancestor's Day, and the Cambodian New Year," he added.

Sina said during the New Year, besides gathering with parents and relatives, people will go for a walk, play traditional games, or visit various tourist destinations.

A native to southeastern Prey Veng province, Lib Kunsry, a garment factory worker in Phnom Penh, said she is eager to see her family members as they have not met for months.

"I'm looking forward to the New Year holiday because I miss my hometown and want to meet my family members," the 38-year-old mother of a daughter told Xinhua.

Kunsry goes to her hometown thrice a year on the occasions of traditional New Year, Pchum Ben festival, and Water Festival.

"On the occasion of the traditional New Year, I always give some money and food to my parents and parents-in-law as well as to elderly relatives," she said. "Also, I prepare some food and money for monks at a pagoda to dedicate to the dead relatives."

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Thursday blessed his compatriots with best wishes on the occasion.

"May the Year of the Dragon bring all Cambodian people with the five gems of Buddhist blessing: longevity, nobility, happiness, strength and wisdom," he said in a public speech.

"Local authorities must pay attention to maintaining security, public order, and good environment during the New Year celebrations," he added.

During the New Year holidays, people prepare food, fruits and soft drinks on altars and light candles and incense sticks in order to greet the New Year's angel.

Besides, they bring food, cash gift, and praying stuff to offer to Buddhist monks at pagodas in order to dedicate to their ancestors and pray for longevity, good luck, happiness and prosperity in the New Year.

Traditional New Year is also the time for young girls and boys to gather and play a variety of traditional games, dancing and singing in vicinities of pagodas and tourist resorts throughout the Southeast Asian country. 
Vice President Harris on Friday repeatedly knocked former President Trump during a campaign stop in Arizona where she also warned against another Trump presidency just days after the states Supreme Court upheld an 1864 law that made performing abortion a felony.

Harris brought up Trumps announcement earlier this week in which he said abortion laws should be left up to the states, while also appearing to say he would not sign a federal ban.

Enough with the gaslighting. We all know if Donald Trump gets the chance, he will sign a national abortion ban, she told a crowd in Tucson.

He basically wants to take America back to the 1800s, Harris added. But we are not going to let that happen. Because, heres the deal, this is 2024 not the 1800s and were not going back. We are not going back.

Harriss trip was announced soon after the Tuesday ruling, which includes an extremely narrow exception allowing for an abortion when it is necessary to save a pregnant persons life.

In the critical battleground state of Arizona, Harris called the Supreme Courts June 2022 overturning of Roe a seismic event adding that the Arizona ban that came down this week is one of the biggest aftershocks yet.

The vice president, who noted the 1864 law was made before Arizona was a state and before women could vote, said the state courts decision now means women here, the women here, live under one of the most extreme abortion bans in our nation.

She placed the blame squarely on Trump, which President Bidens reelection campaign has used as a strategy for months to warn about what a second term for the former president could mean for reproductive rights.

It has demonstrated once and for all that overturning Roe was just the opening act, just the opening act of a larger strategy to take womens rights and freedoms. Part of a full-on attack, state-by-state, on reproductive freedom, Harris said. And we all must understand who is to blameformer President Donald Trump did not.

Donald Trump is the architect of this health care crisis, she said, adding that he brags about it and noted Trump has said he is responsible for overturning Roe for boasting that the law was overturned by conservative justices he appointed during his first term.

While Harris was in Arizona, Trump held a joint press conference with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) at Mar-a-Lago. Harris noted in her remarks that Trump said the collection of state bans are working the way they are supposed to be.

In the wake of the Arizona ruling, the Biden campaign has relentlessly attacked Trump, launching an ad blitz in Arizona highlighting the court ruling. The campaign for months has been hitting Trump and Republicans over reproductive rights in an attempt to appeal to independents, women, and other key voting blocs by highlighting restrictive state laws since Roe was overturned.

Trump on Friday urged Arizona lawmakers to act as fast as possible to adjust the states abortion policy. On Wednesday, he told reporters he thought the Arizona law went too far and expected it to be straightened out.

Harris, during her remarks, also called Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) the next Arizona senator. Gallego is running for the Senate seat that will be left vacant by Sen. Krysten Sinema (I-Ariz.) against Trump ally Republican Kari Lake. Harris also said she was thinking of Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) as he begins his treatment for cancer.

Biden and Harris won Arizona in 2020 with extremely tight margins  49.4 percent compared to Trumps 49 percent.

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Vice President Kamala Harris lambasted Donald Trump on Friday as being responsible for erasing abortion rights in the country, one of her most direct attacks on the former president so far as abortion has taken center stage in the upcoming election.

We all must understand who is to blame. Former President Donald Trump did this, Harris said at a campaign event in Tucson, Arizona. During his campaign in 2016, Donald Trump said women should be punished for seeking an abortion.

Harris campaign trip to Arizona comes just days after the states high court upheld a 160-year-old law outlawing abortions unless the patients life is in danger. Harris blamed Trump in a statement following the ruling, saying, Its a reality because of Donald Trump, who brags about being proudly the person responsible' for overturning Roe v. Wade.

Trump criticized the Arizona ruling as going too far, just days after he said abortion should be left up to states to decide and that he wouldnt support a federal ban on the procedure. He doubled down in a Truth Social post just hours before Harris event Friday, calling for Arizona officials to remedy what has happened.

Multiple aides to the vice president have told POLITICO that Harris has been worried that Trump was going to try to moderate his position publicly. While traveling to Charlotte last week, Harris was told about the former presidents promise to release a statement about abortion this week, possibly calling for a 15-week ban.

She basically said, I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't do the 15 weeks at all, if he tried to do something to muddy the waters. And so we need to be ready to make sure that no matter what his statement says, he's on the hook for all the state bans that are in existence, said a campaign official granted anonymity to speak candidly.

The campaign stop in the battleground state was planned prior to the court decision and was originally meant to be about student loans. But as it became clear that the decision was going to be announced, Harris told her team that it instead needed to be focused on abortion.



For years, Harris abortion events have been from her official side. Fridays appearance marked a shift to campaign events that allowed the vice president to attack Trump more directly, calling him the architect of this health care crisis.

She's not subject to the Hatch Act and she can say whatever the heck she wants, said one senior Harris aide granted anonymity to speak candidly. [But] she knew we needed to pivot to more campaign style and campaign paid for events so that we could really be unencumbered in how we tell the story and how we make sure that voters understand the connection of an 1864 ban in Arizona and what that means, why that's Donald Trump's fault.

At the heart of the shift: the campaigns concern that Trumps attempt to moderate his position is going to work. We'd be crazy not to be worried about that, the Harris aide added.

The ruling has energized local abortion rights advocates who have been working to put a ballot measure in front of Arizona voters in November. Groups such as the ACLU of Arizona and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona say that they have acquired enough signatures to establish a ballot measure, according to the Arizona Republic.

The campaign said Harris spoke to more than 100 abortion rights activists and supporters.

Here's what a second Trump term looks like: More bans, more suffering and less freedom, Harris said. Just like he did in Arizona, he basically wants to take America back to the 1800s. But we are not going to let that happen because here's the deal: This is 2024, not the 1800s. And we're not going back. We are not going back.
Harris to warn in Arizona after abortion ruling a second Trump term would mean more bans, more suffering

Vice President Harris will rally supporters in Arizona on Friday, where outrage is brewing among Democrats over a court ruling that upheld an 1864 law and made performing abortion a felony.

Harris will take direct aim at former President Trump in her remarks, according to excerpts shared by the Biden campaign. The vice president will say Trump is to blame for the wave of restrictions on abortion following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and she will warn a second Trump term would mean more restrictions.

Donald Trump is the architect of this health care crisis. And thats not a fact he hides. In fact, he brags about it, Harris will say, according to excerpts.

And as much harm as he has already caused, a second Trump term would be even worse, Harris is set to say. If Donald Trump gets the chance, he will sign a national abortion ban. How do we know? Look at his record. Congress tried to pass a national abortion ban before, in 2017, and then-President Trump endorsed it.

Heres what a second Trump term looks like: more bans, more suffering, less freedom. But we are not going to let that happen, Harris will say.

Harriss trip to Arizona was quickly announced after the Arizona Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the Civil War-era law passed before Arizona was even a state should be enforced. The court ruled to lift a stay on the law, meaning it goes into effect in 14 days.

However, the justices also sent the case back to a lower trial court to sort out questions about the laws constitutionality.

The century-old law makes abortion a felony punishable by two to five years in prison for anyone who performs or helps a woman obtain one. It includes an extremely narrow exception allowing for an abortion when it is necessary to save a pregnant persons life.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) called for the 1864 ban to be repealed, and the states Democratic attorney general has said she will not enforce any bans on abortion.

Other speakers at Fridays event are expected to include Arizona Senate candidate Rep. Ruben Gallego (D), Tucson Mayor Regina Romero (D), abortion rights advocate Mini Timmaraju and other state officials.

Patients and abortion providers will also be in attendance, the campaign said, as will second gentleman Doug Emhoff.

The Biden campaign has relentlessly attacked Trump in the wake of the Arizona ruling, which is the latest instance of a Republican state rolling back abortion access after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022.

The campaign announced Thursday amore than $1 million ad blitz in Arizona highlighting the court ruling.

Trump earlier this week said it should be left up to the states to determine abortion policy, while appearing to say he would not sign a federal ban. Trump has frequently expressed pride in appointing the Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, and his White House supported GOP legislation that passed the House during his first term that would have banned most abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Trump, the presumptive presidential nominee for the Republican Party, told reporters Wednesday he thought the Arizona law went too far and expected it to be straightened out.

For 52 years, people have wanted to end Roe v. Wade to get it back to the states. We did that, Trump said Wednesday. It was an incredible thing, an incredible achievement. We did that.

Now the states have it, and the states are putting out what they want, he continued. Its the will of the people.

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SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  A man who allegedly used a skateboard to vandalize a San Francisco mosque during Ramadan was identified by police on Thursday.

Robert Gray, 35, of San Francisco, was arrested in connection to the April 4 mosque incident in Nob Hill, according to police. Surveillance cameras recorded a man breaking windows and defacing the entrance to Masjid al-Tawheed on Sutter Street.

Officers nabbed Gray when he returned to Masjid al-Tawheed mosque on the night of April 10, police told KRON4.

Prosecutors filed hate crime and vandalism charges against Gray on Thursday.

District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said, Vandalism of this nature is completely unacceptable and is even more alarming as it occurred during the holy month of Ramadan and while Muslim families were present praying and worshipping. Our houses of worship are sacred spaces and targeting them in any way will not be tolerated in San Francisco.

Council on American-Islamic Relations San Francisco Bay Area Executive Director Zahra Billoo said the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges we face in combating Islamophobia.

The District Attorneys Office said it will ask a judge on Friday to keep Gray in custody without bail. If convicted of the charges, he will face up to six years in state prison.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
The Royal Navy recently shot down a hostile threat for the first time since the First Gulf War. On 15 December 2023, in a matter of minutes, highly trained members of HMS Diamonds 200 strong company identified an aerial threat. They assessed it, selecting and preparing a Sea Viper missile, then calculated firing variables, sought and received authorisation, before launching and guiding the missile. It intercepted the target. It was a Houthi attack drone.

I salute the professionalism and commitment of Royal Navy personnel working to restore security to the Red Sea as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian. In execution, their operation was flawless. But conceptually there was a flaw. Because we were required to use a sophisticated and expensive surface-to-air missile to shoot down a relatively cheap drone.

From Nagorno Karabakh, to Ukraine, to the Red Sea, in a relatively short time frame cheap adaptable drones, often built from commercial components, have transformed the battlefield and the threat picture we face.

In Defence it is important to understand your vulnerabilities as well as your strengths. And it had been evident to me for some time that the old way of doing Defence procurement, with programmes rumbling-on sometimes for a decade or more, was no longer fit for purpose.

So I worked with the Defence Secretary to press fast-forward on a better solution that we had in the pipeline.

Dragonfire technology will engage aerial targets at the speed of light, for just 10 a shot. And with our extra investment and agility, it will be operational on Royal Navy warships in 2027 rather than 2032.

Last month The Telegraph editorial stated that Britain needed to reshape Defence procurement. I agree. And as a consequence of comprehensive reforms to Defence procurement that I initiated and came into force this week, this increased pace and agility will not be a one-off. It will be the norm in all future procurement programmes.

Our new Integrated Procurement Model is a response to a more dangerous world and the lessons weve learned from Ukraine and previous acquisition programmes. Our overriding objective is to create and procure the newest and best capabilities for our Forces as quickly as we can. Ive put targets in place to deliver battle winning capabilities in years rather than decades, helping us stay ahead of adversaries, bolster our supply chains, and strengthen our Defence sector.

I have also dismantled procurement silos that had existed around the Army, Navy, and Air Force and replaced them with a spur to pan-defence prioritisation  based squarely on the threat we face. This will send clear signals to industry about where they need to ramp-up R&D and production capacity.

Furthermore, I have introduced more rigour into the process to improve decision-making and deliver a genuine second opinion for Ministers. Rather than wait years for gold-plated exquisite capabilities, I have embraced Minimum Deployable Capability in order to get game-changing kit quickly into service, knowing that we can spirally adapt it in the future as needs evolve or technology advances.

And because Putins invasion of Ukraine has underlined the need to retain and build sovereign Defence capabilities, I am prioritising exportability from the outset of acquisition programmes, and incentivising UK manufacture in our decision-making processes, which will help strengthen the UKs Defence industrial base.

This new, faster and more agile approach requires a cultural change and a new and seamless relationship between customer and supplier. That change is happening, and we are building those relationships. We are already sharing secret data with trusted partner companies from wargaming exercises and Ukraines front line.

Dragonfire is an exciting new capability embodying our new approach: rapidly procured, with red tape slashed; scientifically cutting edge; and, above all, sovereign, being the birth child of our own MoD scientists at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.

I want the Royal Navy to have use of it as soon as possible in order to keep global shipping lanes open and help keep household bills down. I will, therefore, take procurement decisions to rapidly develop other capabilities that will bolster our sovereign capabilities and protect our operational independence in a more warlike world.



Dragonfire illustrates the many different ways the professional and committed people who serve in the Armed Forces make our lives better. Our decision to accelerate its delivery shows how a smarter approach to procurement can simultaneously strengthen national security, our sovereign Defence industry, and the capabilities of our Armed Forces.

James Cartlidge MP is Minister of State for Defence Procurement

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In a packed courtroom punctuated with emotion, the man who orchestrated the home invasion and killing of his ex-girlfriend by a pair of teenage brothers was sentenced to life in prison Friday, bringing to an end the latest chapter in a case that drew outrage from relatives and community members, who successfully pressed for intervention by Gov. Tim Walz.

Erick Haynes received the sentence for first-degree intentional murder while committing a felony less than two weeks after he pled guilty for his role in 23-year-old Zara McKeever's shooting death. Haynes, 23, was indicted on two counts of first-degree murder and charged with two counts of aiding and abetting second-degree murder in the killing of McKeever, the mother of his child. The remaining murder counts were dismissed at sentencing. Haynes will be eligible for parole after 30 years.

McKeever's family members looked on as Judge William Koch delivered the sentence following a string of tearful victim impact statements. Her mother, Maria Greer, recalled the devastation of learning that a man who once called her "Mom" had plotted her child's death.

"Zaria sure as hell didn't deserve this fate," said Greer, as a slideshow flashed with McKeever's pictures on a large screen TV beside her. "He was supposed to love her, take care of her," she said, pausing as her voice strained with emotion. "Protect her!" a supporter interjected from the audience.

Attorney General Keith Ellison sat watching from the gallery, where two dozen supporters wiped their eyes.

"Zaria had so much life ahead of her. It was stolen out of pure hate, evil, and jealousy," said McKeever's older sister, Tiffynnie Epps. "He is a coward. My sister was the best thing that happened to his whole family and when he realized he couldn't use her anymore, he disposed of her."

Haynes sat quietly, eyes fixed down, never meeting the gaze of from people he used to consider family. When given a chance to address the court, Haynes stood and told the judge: "I just wanna say sorry to the family of Ms. McKeever."

All five of the people involved in McKeever's killing have now pled guilty to their roles in the slaying or to protecting Haynes after the fact.

Foday Kevin Kamara, 17, of Brooklyn Park, pled guilty March 22 to aiding and abetting second-degree intentional murder and is expected to receive a 10-year sentence. He admitted to killing McKeever alongside his older brother, John Kamara, then 17, at the behest of Haynes, who armed the teens and drove them in his sister's car to the apartment of McKeever's new boyfriend. Foday, then just 15, unleashed a flurry shots after the brothers broke the door down and confronted McKeever. She was struck five times at close range.

John Kamara accepted a plea deal offer from Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty last March before Ellison took over prosecution. After mounting pressure from McKeever's family over Moriarty's plea deal offers that would spare the teens prison time and were decried as too lenient, Gov. Tim Walz reassigned the case to Ellison at his request.

Moriarty offered the brothers a deal to avoid adult prison and adult certification. John Kamara accepted it before Ellison and Walz intervened on Foday's case. John agreed to serve about a two-year sentence at the juvenile correctional facility in Red Wing and be placed on a form of extended probation that holds an adult sentence over his head until he's 21.

Haynes' sister and brother-in-law are also charged with felony aiding an offender after the fact. Koch conditionally accepted guilty pleas from Eriana and Tavion James, both 24, in the hours following Haynes' guilty plea April 1, just before he was slated to go to trial.

Haynes' Friday sentencing followed a prayer vigil at Shiloh Temple in north Minneapolis, where 25 supporters gathered to honor the young mother's all-too-brief life. Loved ones clutched framed photos and wore pins displaying McKeever's smiling face and reflected on their hard-fought battle to find justice over the last 16 months.

The family wanted longer sentences, particularly for the juveniles who pulled the trigger on Nov. 8, 2022, but thanked the Attorney General's office for taking up the case and securing tougher sanctions for everyone involved in the home invasion.

"These are results we can live with," said her stepfather, Paul Greer. He and Maria are left to raise their 2 -year-old granddaughter, Zanay-Dior, who's forced to grow up without either parent.

"We can't replace her mother, but we can show her love she would've wanted us to."

This is a breaking news story. Check back at Startribune.com for updates.
The hepatitis B and C viruses are the most severe strains and, together, are the primary causes of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer - The Rockefeller University/NIAID via AP

Viral hepatitis is set to become the worlds biggest infectious killer, taking over from tuberculosis (TB) for the first time, new data reveals.

Hepatitis B and C viruses now claim as many lives as TB, with 1.3 million deaths in 2022 new data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows.

By 2040, the disease will kill more people than TB, HIV and malaria combined unless urgent action is taken, warn experts.

Despite progress globally in preventing hepatitis infections, deaths are rising because far too few people with hepatitis are being diagnosed and treated, the WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu said.

Dr Graham Cooke, Professor of Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London said the virus  which is spread through blood-to-blood contact  had been largely missed by global health experts.

Viral hepatitis isnt getting the attention it needs globally, partly because when the Global Fund was set up for HIV, TB and malaria, the burden of viral hepatitis wasnt recognised, he said.

Prof Cooke added that there had been a transformation in treatments, particularly for hepatitis C, in the last 10 years.

This means that in low-income countries, the rise in the epidemic due to growing populations is not matched by resources to tackle them, he said.

Two-thirds of all hepatitis infections are concentrated in just ten countries; Bangladesh, China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, Russia, and Vietnam.

But developed countries are also impacted.

In the UK, estimates suggest around 270,000 people live with hepatitis B and C, with at least half undiagnosed.

The hepatitis B and C viruses  which account for 83 and 17 per cent of global hepatitis deaths respectively  are the most severe strains, and together are the primary causes of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer worldwide.

Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice and nausea. However, in many people, the infection is symptomless  only 20 to 25 years after the initial infection might they discover they have end-stage liver damage.

Both hepatitis B and C are contracted through blood-to-blood contact, including from mother to child during childbirth, sexual contact, the sharing of needles, and inadequate sterilisation of medical equipment.

Over 96 per cent of people with new chronic hepatitis B infections in Britain are migrants who acquired the infection in their country of birth during early childhood, whilst most hepatitis C infections  over 90 per cent  are caused by injecting drugs from dirty needles.

In the UK, screening is reserved for certain groups, explained Dr Will Irving, Professor of Immunology at the University of Nottingham. Pregnant women, blood donors, and healthcare workers are routinely tested.

If you dont fall into those groups, you may not get tested for years  although you might be fit and healthy at the moment, patients might only come for care when they have end-stage liver disease, he said.

A new NHS England testing initiative, announced this week, aims to identify those unknowingly living with hepatitis C through new rapid liver scanning and portable testing units.

The programme is set to be deployed through clinical outreach vans at drug and alcohol support services and some GP practices  with hopes of eliminating the disease in the UK by 2025.

Those who have ever injected drugs, had medical treatment abroad, or had unprotected sex with an at-risk partner are encouraged to get checked, and will be given effective antivirals to treat the disease if they test positive.

But treatment for both hepatitis C and B varies greatly across the globe.

The drugs that have been developed are extraordinarily effective  theyll cure around 95 per cent of patients, but having the drugs is one thing and getting the drugs to the countries that need it is another, said Dr Irving.

There is a vaccine to protect against hepatitis B, which should be administered in early childhood. However, many countries, particularly in the global south, do not have access to it.

In Africa, where 63 per cent of new hepatitis B infections occur, only 18 per cent of newborns are offered the jab.

There is currently no cure for hepatitis B, meaning that, once contracted, it can become chronic and lead to severe  and fatal  liver damage.

Antivirals can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of developing cancer and cirrhosis, but in 2022, only three per cent of those living with chronic hepatitis B received any form of treatment.

Hepatitis C can be completely cured with antivirals sofosbuvir and daclatasvir. Still, only 20 per cent of those living with the infection  12.5 million people  are treated each year.

This is partly due to huge disparities in the pricing of these medicines, meaning many countries fail to procure them.

Low-income countries continue to pay prices much higher than the benchmark price, such as $1,050 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and US$ 481 in Cameroon for the sofosbuvir/daclatasvir fixed-dose combination, the WHO said in its most recent report.

Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security

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Hezbollah fired a barrage of 40 rockets from southern Lebanon at Israel, as the country braced for a major attack by Iran.

Some experts suggested the attack, which did not cause any injuries, was an attempt to deplete Israels supply of surface-to-air missiles before Tehran launches a larger strike in retaliation for last weeks air strike on its consulate in Damascus.

Videos online showed Israels Iron Dome defences kicking into action in the night skies above residents in northern Galilee.

An Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesman said it had intercepted some of the Katyusha missiles and that no injuries had been reported.

The Lebanese-based Iranian proxy group claimed it was targeting Israeli artillery positions.

Earlier today, air defences intercepted two Hezbollah bomb drones while several shells were fired from Lebanon without causing any casualties, according to the IDF.

IDF forces opened fire to eliminate the threat in several areas of southern Lebanon, he added.

Hezbollah has exchanged near-daily cross-border fire with Israel since its ally Hamas, the Palestinian group, massacred hundreds of Israeli civilians in the Oct 7 attack.

10:00 PM BST

Thats all for now

Thanks for following our live Middle East coverage, as Hezbollah launched a missile barrage against Israel ahead of an expected strike by Iran. This live blog is now closed.

09:54 PM BST

Flights to Iran cancelled ahead of expected strike

The last airline in western Europe flying to Tehran has cancelled its flights ahead of an expected Iranian strike on Israel.

Australian Airlines said it was suspending all flights from Vienna to Tehran until April 18, adding in a statement: The safety of our passengers and crews have highest priority.

09:35 PM BST

US send military assets to Israel to protect from Iranian strike

The US is deploying extra military assets near Israel to protect it from a strike by Iran that could come as soon as this weekend.

Officials said they had implemented force posture changes and deployed additional assets to the region in light of threats by Tehran to strike Israeli territory in retaliation for an air strike on its consulate in Damascus last week.

On Friday, the Pentagon was said to have been expecting an attack in the next 48 hours, which raised the prospect of a direct conflict between Iran and Israel for the first time.

President Joe Biden on Friday said he expected Iran to attack Israel sooner, rather than later and warned Tehran not to proceed.

Read the full story here from Tony Diver and Nataliya Vasilyeva.

09:11 PM BST

Pictured: Israels Iron Dome intercepts Hezbollah missiles

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Lebanon towards Israel over the Israeli Lebanese border - REUTERS/Ayal Margolin

08:47 PM BST

Israeli army kills Hamas leaders son in West Bank raid

Israeli forces shot dead the son of a Hamas West Bank leader in an early-morning raid on Friday, according to reports.

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was killed while travelling in his car in the West Bank city of Tubas where he is based, local media said.

Israeli forces shot dead the son of a Hamas West Bank leader in an early-morning raid on Friday, according to reports.

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was killed while travelling in his car in the West Bank city of Tubas where he is based, local media said.

Read the full story from Cameron Henderson here.

08:29 PM BST

Biden expects Iran attack sooner rather than later

Joe Biden has suggested he expects an imminent Iranian strike on Israel. I dont want to get into secure information but my expectation is sooner than later, he told reporters.

08:16 PM BST

Biden: Iran will not succeed

Joe Biden, the US President, urged Iran not to launch an attack on Israel when speaking to reporters this evening. He added: We are devoted to the defence of Israel, we will support Israel, we will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.

07:59 PM BST

Iron Dome is not hermetic, IDF admits

Israel has admitted that its Iron Dome defence system is not hermetic as anticipation builds for a potential air strike by Iran.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a spokesman for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), urged the public to remain vigilant while insisting that it was ready for attack.

If there are any changes, we will update [the public] immediately, Mr Hagari said, adding that Israels air defences were among the best in the world, but not hermetic.

We have been at war for the past six months, and we have dealt with all the existing threats. Our defense is ready, and knows how to handle each threat individually., he said,

We are also ready for attack, with a variety of capabilities, to protect the citizens of Israel.

07:26 PM BST

Hezbollah takes credit for missile strike on Israel

Hezollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, has taken credit for firing dozens of Katyusha rockets at Israel on Friday evening.

It claimed to be targeting enemy artillery positions in response to the enemys attacks on... southern villages and civilian homes. The attack is not believed to have caused any casualties.

07:23 PM BST

Iranian retaliation will be calibrated to avoid escalation

Iran has signalled that it will retaliate against a suspected Israeli air strike in a calibrated manner to to prevent a regional war breaking out, the Financial Times reports.

Tehran is unlikely to target Israeli diplomatic facilities in the region, an official briefed on key diplomatic talks said.

06:46 PM BST

Rockets, drones and shells fired from Lebanon

Israel intecepted some of the 40 missiles that were recently fired at its territory from Lebanon, as speculation grows about an Iranian attack.

An Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesman confirmed that a number of rockets, shells and drones had been fired from its northern neighbour this evening, where Hezbollah -- an Iranian proxy group -- is based.

He said: The launching of about 40 rocket shells from Lebanese territory towards Israel was monitored, some of which were intercepted while the rest fell in open areas without causing any casualties.

Earlier this evening, air defenses intercepted two Hezbollah bomb drones that infiltrated from the direction of Lebanon, where warnings were activated for fear of interception fragments falling.

In addition, several shells were monitored from Lebanon towards the area of the town of Ramot Naftali, without causing any casualties.

IDF forces opened fire to eliminate the threat in several areas of southern Lebanon.

06:37 PM BST

US moving additional assets to Middle East

US defence officials have said they are moving additional assets to the Middle East to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces.

It has previously been reported that the USS Dwight Eisenhower aircraft carrier had headed north through the Red Sea towards Israel.

06:27 PM BST

Iron Dome intercepts missile barrage as Israel braces for Iran attack

Israel has intercepted a missile barrage of around 50 rockets that were fired from Lebanon as it braces for an attack from Iran.

Footage published on social media shows the rockets exploding in mid-air as they are caught by Israels Iron Dome defence system.

Commentators suggested the strike could be an attempt to wear down Israels air defences before launching a larger attack using more advanced missiles.

Meanwhile more than 50 rockets were fired from southern Lebanon towards Israel. pic.twitter.com/yxFVzBkCU0  Clash Report (@clashreport) April 12, 2024

06:21 PM BST

Reports: US sends aircraft carrier to Israel

The US has reportedly sent the USS Dwight Eisenhower aircraft carrier towards Israel, seemingly in an attempt to deter Iran from launching an attack.

The warship would be able to intercept missiles and drones fired from Iran, Israeli media reports.

06:13 PM BST

Russia tests intercontinential ballistic missile

Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from a test site in its southern Astrakhan Region.

Their detection over various regions of Iran prompted speculation on social media that Iran had launched a strike on Israel, until Moscow confirmed it was responsible.

The combat crew of the Strategic Missile Forces successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile of a mobile ground-based missile system, Russias defence ministry said.

The results obtained confirm the high reliability of Russian missiles for ensuring strategic security of the Russian Federation. The launch objectives were completed in full.

06:07 PM BST

Gallant meets with US General to discuss potential attack

Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defence minister, met with US Central Command Commander Gen. Erik Kurilla today to discuss preparations for a potential Iranian strike on Israel.

The two men spoke about readiness for an Iranian attack against the State of Israel, which may lead to regional escalation, according to a statement from Gallants office.

Following the meeting, Gallant said: Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true -- they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder.

06:00 PM BST

Rocket sirens sound near Lebanon border

Numerous rocket sirens are sounding in northern Israeli towns near the Lebanon border, The Times of Israel reports.

05:23 PM BST

Iran threat to Israel is viable and serious: White House

A reportedly imminent attack by Iran on Israel is a real and viable threat, the White House said on Friday.

I cant speak to what the intelligence picture tells us in terms of the size, scale, scope of what that attack might look like, except to say that were taking this seriously, said National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.

We still deem the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable.

When pressed by reporters on why the US had not released more detailed intelligence as it did in the run up to Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, he said the White House was comfortable with the messaging it had put out but that it would not sit back.

And thats why we are working so intensively to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself. And we have had conversations with others in the region too. Nobodys sitting back and resting easy on this.

Its a serious threat. Were taking it seriously and we believe that its best for those conversations to happen away from the public eye so that we can make sure Israel is as prepared as possible.

05:14 PM BST

Iran warned the US to stay out of the conflict or risk being attacked: report

Iran reportedly sent a message to the Biden administration through several Arab countries earlier this week saying that if the US got involved in the fighting between Israel and Iran, American forces in the region would be attacked.

Three American officials told Axios, a US news website, that the Iranians believe Washington is responsible for the Israeli attack that killed a Iranian general in Damascus, despite US denials.

The Iranian message was we will attack the forces that attack us, so dont f*** with us and we wont f*** with you, one US official is quoted as saying.

They reportedly threatened to attack US bases in the region if Washington did not stay out of the conflict.

04:59 PM BST

German government sued over sending weapons to Israel

Human rights lawyers have filed a lawsuit against a German government decision to approve the export of 3,000 anti-tank weapons to Israel, the second case of its kind this month filed over Berlins support of Israel in its war in Gaza.

Last week, Berlin lawyers said they had filed an urgent appeal to halt exports of war weapons to Israel, citing reasons to believe they were being used in ways that could violate international humanitarian law in the Gaza Strip.

The latest case, brought by five Palestinians from Gaza, was supported by lawyers from the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR) in Berlin and Palestinian human rights organisations, ECCHR said in a statement.

04:45 PM BST

US shoulder to shoulder with Israel, says Gallant

The US stands shoulder to shoulder with Israel in face of the threat from Iran, Israels defence minister Yoav Gallant said after talks with the US Central Command chief in Jerusalem.

Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true - they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties, Mr Gallant said after he and Michael Kurilla discussed Irans threats of retaliation for a deadly air strike on its consulate in Syria.

We stand shoulder to shoulder, Mr Gallant said, adding: We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond.

04:32 PM BST

Iran is going to attack, says US senator

US Senator Marco Rubio has said that Iran is going to attack Israel bar a last-minute development.

The Republican member of the Senate Intelligence Committee said that the response and risk of escalation will depend on what and how they attack.

Israel has approved a plan to attack Iran if it is fired upon directly from the Islamic Republic.

04:15 PM BST

Tell us about hostages if you want to protect your families, IDF warns civilians

The IDF has dropped leaflets in Rafah urging Palestinians to help locate Israeli hostages held by Hamas if you want to protect your families.

If you want to protect your families and guarantee your future, do not hesitate to provide us with information about the hostages or those holding them, the flyers, which included the names and photos of 35 hostages, read.

The leaflets, dropped on the Tel Sultan neighbourhood of Gazas southernmost city, included a phone number hotline for providing tip-offs.

The request for information comes after Israel announced earlier this week that it was withdrawing its troops from the rest of the Strip in preparation for invading Rafah.

Plans to launch an offensive in the region, where more than 1.5 million Palestinians are currently seeking refuge, have been widely condemned by Western leaders and the UN.

04:10 PM BST

Iran could attack today with 100 drones and dozens of missiles

Iran could launch a major attack on Israeli soil using more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles within hours, two US officials have warned.

Given its magnitude, the alleged strike on military targets would be challenging for Israel to defend itself against, the officials told CBS News, adding that it could take place today.

The officials said they hoped Iran would opt for a smaller-scale strike.

Intelligence sources previously suggested Iran would calibrate its retaliation to avoid provoking a US response, Politico reported.

Israel is preparing itself for a strike on either the south or the north of the country, a separate official told the Wall Street Journal, as both the US and France issued warnings to citizens and diplomats to avoid travelling in the region.

The country has been on a state of high alert ever since it allegedly bombed Irans Damascus embassy, killing seven Iranian officials including senior commander Mohammed Reza Zahedi.

04:00 PM BST

Pictured: Palestinians attend funeral of Hamas militant

An armed man participates in the funeral of Mohammad Rasol Daraghmah, a militant who was killed by Israeli forces in Tubas - Raneen Sawafta/Reuters

03:56 PM BST

India advises citizens against travelling to Israel or Iran

India has advised its citizens against travelling to either Iran or Israel until further notice due to the prevailing situation in the region, the Foreign Ministry said.

All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves, the ministry posted on Twitter.

It added that Indians in the two countries should observe the utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum.

03:28 PM BST

Atrocious dilemma if Palestinians flee to Egypt, warns UN refugee chief

The UN refugee chief has said we must fervently do everything to avoid the prospect of Palestinians flowing into Egypt from Rafah as it would make resolving the conflict impossible.

Another refugee crisis from Gaza into Egypt, I can assure you  would make the resolution of the Palestinian refugee question as a consequence of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict impossible, Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said in Geneva.

His comments come amid threats from Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, that no force in the world will stop Israels invasion of Gazas southernmost city, where 1.4 million Palestinians are currently sheltering.

Mr Grandi conceded that crossing the border into Egypt may be the only option for safety available for many Palestinians should Israel invade, adding: We must not arrive at that atrocious dilemma, which would be really almost the end of the road for what is really important here: ultimate peace.

03:20 PM BST

Journalist loses foot in Israeli refugee camp strike

A journalist had his foot amputated after being wounded in an Israeli strike on the Nuseriat refugee camp in central Gaza.

Sami Shehadeh, a TRT reporter, was one of several journalist, and more than 70 people in total, injured during Israeli raids in the area which involved shelling, ground troops and drone strikes, Al Jazeera reported.

During a raid on a school nearby, Israeli troops uncovered several heavy live explosives hidden in a classroom and playground where Hamas gunmen were holed up, the IDF said.

According to the IDF, troops also located an observation post at the school that had been used by Hamas.

03:01 PM BST

Pictured: Warning to Israel over missile strike

The IDF has posted a reminder to Israelis on social media about safety instructions in case of missile attacks

02:48 PM BST

Israel opens new Gaza aid crossing

The first trucks transporting food aid via the newly built northern crossing travelled today into Gaza, the IDF reported.

The trucks were inspected at the Kerem Shalom crossing point on the border with Egypt before moving north to cross into the Strip, it added.

Israel announced earlier this month that it would not re-open the Erez crossing point into Gaza, which has been closed since the start of the war, for fear that protestors would block trucks carrying desperately needed aid into the war-torn region.

02:19 PM BST

Watch: Hamas leaders son killed in strike

02:14 PM BST

France tells citizens not to travel to Israel

Frances foreign ministry has advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Irans threats against its regional adversary.

In a statement on Twitter, the French foreign ministry said that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

01:55 PM BST

Pictured: Jordan anti-war protests

Demonstrators in Jordan carry flags and banners during a protest in support of Palestinians in Gaza - Reuters

Protestors hold placards stating: "We celebrate with victory" - Jehad Shelbak/Reuters

01:44 PM BST

Israel kills son of Hamas West Bank leader

Israeli forces have shot dead the son of a former Hamas West Bank leader in an early morning raid, the IDF has confirmed.

Muhammad Rasoul - the son of Omar Daraghmeh, a West Bank Hamas leader who died while imprisoned in Israel - was shot dead in his car during an early morning raid on the West Bank city of Tubas, local media reported.

Mr Rasoul, a central Hamas member in the West Bank city of Tubas, was shot dead after opening fire at Israeli troops from a car, the IDF said, adding that several firearms and other pieces of military equipment were seized from his vehicle.

Images of the incident posted by news agencies show a bullet-ridden car, allegedly belonging to Mr Rasoul.

The death of Mr Daraghmeh in October last year, days after he was imprisoned, triggered mass demonstrations in Tubas amid accusations of an Israeli assassination.

01:12 PM BST

29 dead after Israeli airstrike

At least 29 people have been killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza Citys Daraj neighbourhood, with dozens more wounded, Wafa, the Palestinian news agency, reported.

Footage of the aftermath of the attack posted by Al Jazeera Arabic shows rescuers carrying bodies from the rubble of a blown-out building.

Elsewhere in Gaza City, Israeli helicopters carried out strikes in the Zeitoun, Shujayea and Remal neighbourhoods, wounding multiple civilians, according to Wafa.

12:49 PM BST

Battle Lines: Will Israel strike Iran?

12:19 PM BST

Gaza death toll reaches 33,634

At least 33,634 people have been killed in Gaza during more than six months of war between Israel and Hamas, the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry reported.

The toll includes at least 89 deaths over the past 24 hours, a ministry statement said, adding that 76,214 people have been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began.

11:34 AM BST

Israel preparing for Iranian attack within 24-48 hours

Israel is preparing for a direct attack from Iran in the next 24 to 48 hours, a US intelligence source reported.

The country is readying itself for a possible strike on either southern or northern Israel, the source, who was not named, told the Wall Street Journal, as the US embassy placed travel restrictions on all government employees based in the country.

With the region on red alert, Iran is allegedly planning a larger-than-usual aerial attack featuring a mix of missiles and drone strikes, but it intends to limit its strike to avoid provoking a US response, a separate official told Politico.

Iran is looking to calibrate it, so they essentially dont overplay their hand, the official said.

11:15 AM BST

Hamas police chief killed in Gaza airstrike

The head of Hamass internal security in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, was killed in an airstrike yesterday, the IDF and Shin Bet reported.

In addition to serving as a Hamas police chief in Jabaliya, Radwan Muhammad Abdullah Radwan was part of the militant groups military wing, according to Israeli intelligence.

Radwan gave orders to Hamas operatives and was responsible for directing armed terrorists to take control of humanitarian aid trucks in the northern Gaza Strip, the IDF said in a statement. It added that his killing degrades Hamass capabilities to attack and take control of humanitarian aid in the Jabaliya area, the Times of Israel reported.

A separate Israeli strike yesterday killed Hamed Muhammad Ali Ahmed, a Hamas militant commander who was responsible for internal security in Jabaliya, as well as another operative in the terror groups Jabaliya Battalion, the IDF said.

10:36 AM BST

Update: China pledges to cool down tensions in Middle East

China has said it will contribute to cooling down rapidly escalating tensions in the Middle East after talks with the United States.

Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, spoke to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi this week to urge Beijing to use its influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel.

Beijing said that during the call, Mr Wang expressed Chinas strong condemnation of the attack while emphasising the inviolable right to security of diplomatic institutions and the need to respect the sovereignty of Iran and Syria.

China will continue to play a constructive role in the resolution of the Middle East issue... and contribute to cooling down the situation, Mao Ning, a foreign ministry spokeswoman, added.

Beijing in turn has criticised the US as biased toward Israel, calling on Washington to play a constructive role in the resolution of the crisis.

This round of escalation is the latest manifestation of the spillover from the Gaza conflict, and it is imperative that the Gaza conflict be put to rest as soon as possible, Ms Mao said, adding Beijing was calling for an immediate ceasefire.

See post at 9.06am for more details.

10:16 AM BST

Pictured: West Bank Hamas leaders son shot dead

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh, the son of deceased West Bank Hamas leader Omar Daraghmeh, was shot dead in a car during an IDF West Bank raid - Getty Images

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was a Al-Qassam Brigades commander, reports suggest - Getty Images

His car was left riddled with bullets - Shutterstock

09:49 AM BST

US frustrated by lack of notice from Israel over Syria strike

Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, complained directly to his Israeli counterpart Yoav Galant that Israel should have warned the US before launching an airstrike on Irans consular in Damascus, three senior US officials reported.

The strike, which killed two senior members of Irans Revolutionary Guard, has triggered threats of a retaliatory attack from Tehran on Israeli soil, leaving the region on red alert.

Mr Austin and other senior defence officials believed Israel should have informed the US ahead of time because of the strikes implications for US troops and interests in the region, the three officials told the Washington Post. They added that forewarning would have enabled the Pentagon to position war ships in the area to protect both Israel and US troops from a potential Iranian response.

An official readout of the conversation released on April 3 did not disclose the Pentagons frustrations, saying only that Mr Austin reiterated US support for Israels defense against a range of regional threats.

09:26 AM BST

Israel kills former Hamas leaders son in West Bank

Israeli forces have shot dead two Palestinians in an early morning raid in the West Bank, Wafa, the Palestinian news agency, reported.

One man was killed when Israeli soldiers opened fire on his vehicle in Tubas, while another was shot dead by Israeli gunfire when troops raided the nearby Al-Fara refugee camp, the agency said.

According to local reports, one of those killed was Muhammad Rasoul, the son of Omar Daraghmeh, a West Bank Hamas leader who died while imprisoned in Israel.

The area around Tubas in the northern West Bank is a stronghold of Palestinian armed groups and the frequent target of Israeli military incursions.

09:06 AM BST

White House urges China to reign in Iran

The US has asked China to urge Tehran not to attack Israel.

Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, spoke to Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister, this week amid mounting concern in Washington that Iran could launch an imminent retaliatory strike on Israel for its air strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria, the Financial Times reported.

We have also engaged with European allies and partners over the past few days and urged them as well to send a clear message to Iran: that escalation is not in Irans interest, its not in the regions interest and its not in the worlds interest, said Matt Miller, a state department spokesman.

The Biden administration has repeatedly implored China in recent months to use its leverage with Tehran to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, but US officials have privately said they have seen no evidence that Beijing has done anything to apply pressure.

08:45 AM BST

Iran has enough enriched uranium for three nuclear bombs

Iran has a supply of highly enriched uranium that could be converted to make the fuel for at least three nuclear bombs within a few weeks, current and former US officials reported.

After a decision is made by Tehran, making a crude nuclear device could take as little as six months, while building a nuclear warhead that could be fired by a missile would two years, the officials told the Washington Post.

Tehran has rapidly developed its nuclear capabilities since the US withdrew from a joint nuclear pact in 2018, enriching uranium at ever-faster speeds and nearly doubling its output at one of the countrys major plants.

They are dancing right up to the edge, a separate US official said.

08:27 AM BST

Pictured: Israelis call for hostage release

Israeli's protest for a deal and the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza - Hannah McKay/Reuters

08:10 AM BST

US embassy restricts travel for government employees in Israel

The US has restricted travel for its diplomats in Israel amid fears of an imminent Iranian attack.

The US embassy released a statement on its website prohibiting government employees and their families from personal travel outside of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or Beersheba until further notice out of an abundance of caution.

Asked about the travel restrictions, Matthew Miller, a state department spokesman, declined to disclose the specific assessments behind them, adding: Clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel.

08:00 AM BST

Iran must not draw Middle East into wider conflict, says Lord Cameron

Lord Cameron has urged his Iran to row back on its threats to launch a direct attack on Israeli soil in order to avoid a regional conflict.

Today I made clear to Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian that Iran must not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict, the Foreign Secretary wrote on Twitter.

I am deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence. Iran should instead work to de-escalate and prevent further attacks, he added.

Tehran vowed to seek revenge on Israel for an attack on its embassy in Damascus last week that killed seven members of Irans Revolutionary Guard.

The White House has warned that an Iranian retaliatory strike could be imminent.

07:53 AM BST

US pledges full support to defend Israel against Iran attack

Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, has pledged Washingtons full support to defend Israel in the face of a Iranian retaliatory strike.

Mr Austin spoke yesterday with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant to reaffirm ironclad US support for Israels defence in the face of growing threats from Iran, a Pentagon statement said.

Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full US support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened, the readout said.

07:46 AM BST

Pictured: Israel bombards Gaza City

Palestinians watch on as smoke billows into the air in the Firas market area of Gaza City amid Israeli bombardment - AFP

07:43 AM BST

Netanyahu vows to harm anyone attacking Israel as fears of Iran strike grow

Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday vowed to harm anyone who attacks Israel amid fears that Iran is poised to launch an unprecedented direct missile attack on its old enemy, write James Rothwell and Moataz Khalil.

The Israeli prime minister said whoever harms us, we will harm them after US intelligence officials warned that Tehran is preparing a strike that could plunge the Middle East into a new war.

Israeli jets carried out drills simulating a strike on Iran, local media reported, while Western and Arab diplomats scrambled to persuade the Islamic republic against military action.

Elite Iranian forces based in Syria have moved into civilian hotels in anticipation of Israeli blowback, security sources told The Telegraph.

Read the full report here.

07:40 AM BST

How Israel and Iran went from best friends to arch-enemies on the cusp of all-out war

When Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini launched an Islamic revolution in Iran in 1979 and overthrew the countrys pro-Western leader, one of the first things he did was cut ties with Israel.

The two countries had been allies under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, back when the nascent state of Israel was keen to work with any non-Arab friends in the region.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Israel sent contractors and military advisers to Tehran and bought Iranian oil. The two countries were even involved in a joint weapons development programme that was kept under wraps for fear of angering Irans Arab allies.

But everything changed when Khomeini, a Shia cleric, seized power. He saw Israel as an American puppet crushing the rights of the Muslim Palestinians, and denied the country had a right to exist.

Read Nataliyas full report here.

07:39 AM BST

All Irans options for an attack on Israel  and how Netanyahu could respond

Israel is braced for a potentially major escalation in its conflict with Iran after a US intelligence assessment warned that Tehran could order a strike on military and government targets inside the country in the coming days, writes James Rothwell.

Israeli ministers have vowed that if Tehran takes direct military action then they will respond with their own strikes on Iranian territory, opening the door to a full-scale regional war in the Middle East.

A US intelligence assessment revealed this week by Bloomberg states that Iran could be poised to launch high-precision strikes using ballistic missiles or drones on targets inside Israel. A source quoted in the report said it was a matter of when, not if, Iran strikes, though it is less clear whether Tehran would take direct action or rely on its proxy network.

Either way, the Bloomberg report suggests Iran is drawing up plans for attacks only on military and government sites in Israel, of which the most obvious would be the Kirya, the Israeli military headquarters in Tel Aviv.

Read Jamess full analysis here.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man was injured in a shooting in Highland Heights Thursday evening, Memphis Police say.

Officers responded to a shooting on Powell Avenue near Baltic Street at 7:09 p.m.

Police say a man went to the hospital in critical condition. Officers reportedly have another man detained on the scene.

If you have any information regarding this incident, call Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
HONG KONG, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The Department of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Friday released the Action Plan on the Construction of Rule of Law in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to set forth the guiding principle.

Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the HKSAR government, said that there are two key features in the action plan, which are underpinning the guiding principle of "Three Interfaces, Two Connects and One GBA", and strengthening collaboration with the legal and dispute resolution sectors and other stakeholders to effectively implement the various policy measures set out in the action plan.

As for the specific measures under the "Three Interfaces", Lam said that in relation to the interface of mechanisms, the department will not only continue to make good use of the mechanisms already established with relevant ministries and stakeholders in the GBA, but will also proactively promote the establishment of a high-level GBA standing interface platform jointly with the country's Supreme People's Court to take forward the practical and research work on judicial and legal matters relating to the GBA.

On the interface of regulatory frameworks, the department has been taking steps to expand the scope of application of the measures "allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to adopt Hong Kong law" and "allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to choose for arbitration to be seated in Hong Kong". The department will also promote the formulation of the best practices of GBA non-litigation dispute resolution rules.

Lam said that the department will take action as a means and adopt a result-oriented approach to pursue in a pragmatic spirit the implementation of the action plan, with a view to contributing to the construction of the rule of law in the GBA with concrete results. 
From the Boiling Frogs on The Dispatch

If you believe in America First, you shouldnt need some other reason to oppose U.S. intervention abroad.

Your rationale is right there in the label. We should stop spending taxpayer money on weapons for Israel and Ukraine and start spending it on problems afflicting our own people, like the border crisis. America first!

Pretty simple. So why have some of the rights most prominent America-First-ers begun adding a religious angle to their isolationist arguments?

Recently Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene explained why shes so irritated by House Speaker Mike Johnsons plan to fund Ukraine. Its not just a matter of wanting America to come first, it turns out. Its a matter of not wanting America to ally with the enemies of Christianity.

Marjorie Taylor Greene once again does Putins bidding:



This is a war on Christianity. The Ukrainian government is attacking ChristiansRussia is not doing that. They are not attacking Christianity. As a matter of fact, they seem to be protecting it. pic.twitter.com/QEMYN1BLDn  Republican Voters Against Trump (@AccountableGOP) April 8, 2024

The next day, a visibly troubled Tucker Carlson considered the longstanding problem of Christian persecution in the Middle East. Not by the regions many Islamist governments, mind you, but by the state of Israel.

Ep. 91 How does the government of Israel treat Christians? In the West, Christian leaders dont seem interested in knowing the answer. They should be. Heres the view of a pastor from Bethlehem. pic.twitter.com/Gvo116ojnf  Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) April 9, 2024

Once again, it appears, America has aligned itself with the enemies of Christianity in a hot war. It cant be a coincidence.

All of this is, to quote the late Antonin Scalia, pure applesauce.

Greenes nonsense about Ukraine attacking Christians has been debunked many times, including here at The Dispatch after America-First-er Vivek Ramaswamy made the claim during a Republican primary debate. The Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) has given religious sanction to Vladimir Putins war of conquest in Ukraine; elements of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, an offshoot of the ROC, chose to collaborate in the effort. The Ukrainian government then moved against those elements. From that, nationalists have deduced that Kyiv is waging a war on Christianity.

It takes some very motivated reasoning to watch Russia kill civilians indiscriminately for two years and conclude that it represents the Christian side of the conflict, particularly given the many credible allegations of Christian persecution against Putin and his minions.

Carlsons smear was arguably worse. Its true that Bethlehems Christian population has suffered and dwindled over the yearsbut thats because the city has been under Palestinian, not Israeli, control for nearly three decades. Christians flourished there beforehand; now theyre oppressed. The Christian population is, however, growing in Israel, something Tucker might have discovered had he chosen to interview a member of that community instead of  this character.

Even populist-friendly voices at sites like Breitbart felt obliged to rebut him publicly.

Its bad enough that Carlson and Greene would falsely accuse two U.S. allies of something as grave as systematic religious persecution. That they would whitewash actual religious persecutors by implication is worse. An uninformed viewer would come away from both clips suspecting that, at a minimum, Russia and the Palestinian Authority are no more egregious in their violations of human rights than the Ukrainians and Israelis are. It only seems that way because thats what they want you to believe.

Why are these two very notable nationalists keen to inject religion into how the right thinks about the wars in Gaza and Ukraine? Why isnt America First enough?

Israel and Ukraine are each led by Jews. I think that matters to the analysis.

Carlson and Greene would resent that accusation (publicly, at least). But when your base consists of people prone to hooting Christ is King at Orthodox Jew Ben Shapiro, the implication in questioning who the us and the them are in these two alleged wars on Christianity being waged by Jewish leaders is obviousand stinks like a corpse lying out in a summer swelter.

Remember, this isnt the first isolationist movement in U.S. history to operate under the banner of America First. The last one wasnt crazy about Jews either.

What Carlson and Greene are doing, I think, is extending the logic of modern nationalism beyond Americas borders. That nationalism isnt primarily concerned with putting Americans first, its concerned with asserting the traditional majoritys tribal supremacy in a diversifying country and justifying its right to rule through illiberal means. Thats why principled nationalism always tends to devolve into ethnic or religious nationalism; the tribal identity is preeminent and eventually reveals itself as such. The fact that Greene describes herself explicitly as a Christian nationalist is no coincidence.

Nor is it a coincidence that figures like Carlson and Steve Bannon, allegedly so focused on the welfare of Americans, can frequently be found overseas kibitzing with foreign authoritarians. That makes no sense as a matter of principled nationalism but its elementary as a matter of tribal nationalism. If your goal is to re-establish white, right-wing Christians as the dominant tribe in a pluralistic America, of course you would extol white, right-wing authoritarians like Putin and Viktor Orban who wrap themselves in Christianity as models of leadership.

By questioning who the real villains are in the current conflicts, Carlson and Greene are trying to cultivate a more tribal mindset in the American rights Christian majority. Traditionally, Republicans would sympathize instinctively with the pro-Western liberal side in any war; nationalists want them to suppress their instinct to ask whos right and whos wrong morally and instead approach disputes by asking, Which side of this is more closely aligned with my ethnic or religious tribe?

Ironically, that may help explain why Carlson in particular has gotten such intense blowback on the right for his smear of Israel. Some are rightly and righteously indignant that he would defame a liberal democracy victimized by a terrible terrorist attack last year. But for others, the tribal calculation in this case simply might not compute: Muslims, not Jews, are supposed to be American Christians closest tribal kin in the Middle East?

Donald Trump is also keen to play on tribal identity, of course, as one would expect of the head of a nationalist movement. Hes an Orban admirer, like Tucker, and hes gotten more prone lately as the presidential campaign heats up to speaking in tribal religious terms, from hawking Christian nationalist Bibles to saying stuff like this:

TRUMP: What the Hell was Biden thinking when he declared Easter Sunday to be 'Trans Visibility Day'? Such total disrespect to Christians November 5th is going to be called CHRISTIAN Visibility Day, when Christians turn out in numbers that nobody's ever seen before pic.twitter.com/qu3uquKfqc  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) April 2, 2024

His relationship with the Christian right over the last nine years has been one long experiment in mingling nationalist politics with religious identity, to the point where many of his supporters now call themselves evangelical despite seldom attending church. Theyre not truly evangelical in the theological sensebut theyre tribally evangelical. They know which side theyre on and whom theyre supposed to follow; the instinct to ask themselves whos right and whos wrong in a political dispute has been conditioned out of many of them, especially when that dispute involves Trump.

The thing to understand about all of this tribalist urging from the likes of Trump, Carlson, and Greene is how insincere it is.

Not entirely. All three would agree privately, I assume, that America is a Christian country and therefore is properly ruled by Christians. Their tribal identity is real. But I suspect their interest in religious tribalism (especially Trumps) derives chiefly from their interest in mainstreaming authoritarianism. The more they can persuade Christian Republicans to sympathize with illiberal regimes abroad on tribal religious grounds, the more at ease those Republicans will be with an illiberal regime here at home that belongs to the same tribe. And the more obedient they might be when their political leaders start smashing civic norms.

Theyre manipulating Christian identity for political ends, which isnt just cynical but wicked. Its one thing to slobber over fascists, its another to do so with the Good Book in hand.

And if they can persuade Christians that their faith compels them to take certain uncomfortable positions on foreign policy, they might be able to persuade them that their faith likewise compels them to take certain uncomfortable positions on domestic policy. Like, say, with respect to abortion.

If Trump, Tucker, and Greene cared as much about Christianity as they claim, one would think theyd be gung ho for federal restrictions on abortion next year.

They are not. In fact, not only did Trump reiterate his opposition to those restrictions on Thursday morning, at last check he was nudging Arizona to relax its newly reinstated state abortion ban.

This is where the distinction between Christian belief and Christian tribalism is laid bare. As a matter of belief, Christians may feel obliged to conclude that every life is sacred from the moment of conception and that the federal government should do its utmost to protect those lives.

But as a matter of tribal loyalty, Christians are obliged to facilitate the tribes path to political power. If pushing federal abortion restrictions would damage Trumps chances at reelection then members of the tribe should support him in opposing those restrictions.

Given how thoroughly Christian religious and political identity has been commingled over the last nine years, sincere evangelicals should be very worried about how tribal pressures might lead their fellow believers to ditch their commitment to the pro-life cause not just as a matter of expediencybut as a matter of conviction.

After all, if Donald Trump has decided that abortion restrictions are now an impediment to tribal political dominance, a Christian Republican might resolve the cognitive dissonance between what his faith requires and what his tribe requires by concluding that theres  actually no dissonance to resolve. Jesus never spoke explicitly about abortion, did he? Some religious faiths permit abortion, dont they?

Maybe its Christian belief, not Christian tribalism, that requires a rethink.

Earnest evangelical leaders like Russell Moore are already anxious about how Trumps political needs have influenced Christians sense of morality since 2015. Theres no obvious reason abortion would be an exception, especially after pro-lifers already got to claim a great moral victory in seeing Roe v. Wade overturned. Christians won! Now they can move on.

The more political tribalism infects Christian identity, the easier it should be for Trump and other talented demagogues like Carlson and Greene to mold Christian belief to their political ends.

To some degree, theyve already done it. The ominous messianism around Trump, replete with prophecies, is an obvious example. The QAnon phenomenon, rich with mythology and divination, is another. Conspiratorial thinking is itself a form of religious faith in how it imagines all-powerful unseen forces controlling the universe; not coincidentally, Trump, Carlson, and Greene are probably the three most unhinged conspiracy theorists in the upper echelon of the MAGA movement.

Tuckers shtick about Israel and Bethlehem reeks of the stuff. A consistent but almost never noted theme of American foreign policy is that it is always the Christians who suffer, he told viewers in his latest interview, plainly implying that thats no coincidence. Malign, shadowy influences bent on destroying Christianity must be at work inside Americas establishment. Carlson didnt name themalthough we can all guess who he has in mindbut here again, hes purporting to pull back the veil of ignorance that blinds his congregants to the hidden truth that explains reality.

Eclipses, earthquakes, bridge collapses: Everything happens for a reason in MAGA world, Brian Klaas noted recently at The Atlantic. That reason is invariably simple, reductionist, and quasi-religious. Why should seemingly unrelated examples of Christians suffering because of American foreign policy be any different?

Well soon find out whether this ersatz Christianity, so useful for tribal ends, will supplant the real thing on the American right. If Trump pays no electoral penalty for functionally abandoning the pro-life cause, thatll be a strong clue.

But its not a sure thing:

I will not vote for @realDonaldTrump unless something very drastic changes.



He refuses to do his duty under King Jesus and use his federal power to protect all humans under his jurisdiction. He is now leading other Republicans down the ballot to distance themselves from pic.twitter.com/NVgSCIQvvQ  Ben Zeisloft (@BenZeisloft) April 10, 2024

Christ is king, not Trump. Which means when he crosses the line & spits on God, we should call him out every time.



Spread the word.  Lizzie Marbach (@LizzieMarbach) April 10, 2024

If, for example, evangelicals vote for pro-choice candidates at the same rate they do for pro-life candidates, it will signal to the Republican Party that evangelical votes are assured, no matter what. And that will spell the end for a principled pro-life party platform.  Trevin Wax (@TrevinWax) April 11, 2024

Prominent evangelical Trump allies like Albert Mohler are also unhappy with him. For a movement as cultish as the modern right tends to be, the nascent backlash among pro-lifers is noteworthy.

Right-wing Christians will need to decide whether to shoot the hostage in November to prove a point, boycotting the election to force the GOP to take their agenda more seriously going forward, or whether to stay true to tribalist form. Most of them will do their tribal duty and show up at the polls, no doubt, reasoning that an anti-anti-choice Trump is still preferable to a pro-choice Biden.

But given how tight the last election was and how much tighter this one looks likely to be, it wouldnt take many of them to blow the whole party up by staying home.

Either way, rest assured that even if pro-lifers do show up for him, Trump will blame them and their animating issue for his defeat if he ends up losing. He did that once before when Republicans underperformed, you may recall. In his desperation for a scapegoat to explain his own failure, hell do so again in November if the outcome is adverseto the extent hes not submerged in another quasi-religious conspiracy theory about secret vote-rigging, of course. Pro-lifers reward for suspending all sense of morals with respect to their leader for the past nine years will be to have him dub them traitors to the tribe theyve loyally served.

As a matter of poetic justice, I cant say they wont deserve it.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
ELBA, Ala (WDHN) An investigation is underway after the home of the Elba School Board President, Johnny Senn, was shot several times.

Authorities tell WDHN the shooting came not long after the school board voted not to renew the contract of the Elba Superintendent Thursday evening during a special meeting.

According to sources, when Senn, a retired agent with the State Bureau of Investigation, came home from the meeting, he found multiple bullets had hit his home.

No one was injured, and sources tell WDHN that while no suspect has been identified, they believe the shooting was motivated by the recent firing of the superintendent.

Police patrols have increased in Elba at this time.

The State Bureau of Investigation has taken over the case and is expected to release information soon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
The House advanced a bill Friday to reauthorize the U.S.s warrantless surveillance authority, opening the measure up for debate two days after a band of conservatives blocked a previous version of the legislation from moving forward.

The chamber cleared the rule  which governs debate for legislation  in a 213-208 vote, teeing up a final vote on a bill that reauthorizes Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for two years and institutes a number of reforms to the spying powers.

A final vote on the legislation  in addition to a number of amendments  is slated for around 11:45 a.m. EDT Friday. Congress is facing an April 19 deadline to reauthorize the program.

Section 702 of FISA allows for the warrantless surveillance of foreigners located abroad, which proponents have said is key to fighting terrorism. But in that process, the government also sweeps up communications from Americans who are interacting with individuals being spied on.

That dynamic prompted a group of privacy hawks to push for an amendment that would add a warrant requirement before the government is able to review information collected on Americans. The amendment will also receive a vote Friday.

Advancement of the FISA bill is a significant development in the months-long battle over reauthorizing the U.S.s warrantless spying powers.

The fight hit a fever pitch Wednesday, when 19 Republicans tanked a procedural vote for a previous version of the FISA bill, blocking it from moving forward, dealing an embarrassing blow to Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), and forcing lawmakers back to the drawing board as they looked for a compromise on reauthorizing the spying powers.

After negotiations, leadership changed the legislation to reauthorize FISA for two years rather than five, a detail that helped assuage concerns of the GOP holdouts. Those opponents also said leadership committed to holding a vote on a bill sponsored by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio) that would require the government to get a warrant before purchasing information about U.S. citizens from data brokers.

With those changes and commitments, a number of the GOP holdouts said they would back the rule Friday.

Barring anything else, I will be good, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) said Thursday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican House Majority Leader Steve Scalise told reporters on April 11 that an agreement had not yet been reached on advancing a Ukraine aid funding package as negotiations between U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and the White House continue to unfold.

Scalise told reporters that Speaker Johnson is negotiating a package that deviates from the $60 billion Ukraine aid package that the Senate approved on Feb. 13, and includes several Republican demands, according to the Associated Press.

Scalise provided no details as to what concessions House Democrats and the Biden administration would have to make in order for the aid funding to be brought to the House floor for a vote.

Recently, Johnson has pushed aid funding to be tied to the Biden administration lifting a pause on approvals for Liquefied Natural Gas exports. Over the past month, Johnson has also pondered splitting Ukraine and Israel aid into two separate bills, providing aid to Ukraine as a loan, and using seized Russian assets to supplement the aid funding.

"Theres been no agreement reached," Scalise said. "Obviously there would have to an agreement reached not just with the White House, but with our own members."

Johnson has faced increased pressure and dissent from far-right House Republicans, who initially blocked Ukraine aid funding due to border security disagreements.

In late March, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene filed a motion threatening to oust Johnson from his position if the Speaker brought the proposed Ukraine aid to the House floor for a vote.

Republican Congressman Don Bacon said on March 31 that a vote to remove Johnson would be "very likely" if he allowed Ukraine aid to be brought to the floor, and that it was possible the move could be successful.

According to the Associated Press, Johnson will meet with former President Donald Trump, the presumed Republican presidential nominee, on April 12 to consult with Trump on his support for the aid funding package. In January, Trump allegedly told members of his party not to pass legislation on the border, as he plans to run on the issue in the general election.

House Speaker Mike Johnson previously rejected the Senate approved aid bill on the grounds that it did not address the ongoing crisis at the southern border, but has since signalled his intentions to eventually bring forward a funding package for a vote.

Johnson initially promised to hold a vote on aid for Ukraine following the end of the Easter holiday, but top Republicans contradicted Johnson's timeline stating that the aid vote would be weeks away.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly called on Congress to pass a funding bill, stating that "Ukraine will lose the war" if the U.S. Congress does not pass the aid funding package, amid increasing weapons and ammunition shortages.

Read also: Zelensky: Ukraine will lose war if US Congress fails to deliver aid funding





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
FIRST ON FOX: A group of House Republicans exhorted President Biden to "ensure the expedient release" of U.S. citizens being held hostage by Hamas terrorists and voice Israel's "inviolable right to self-defense."

"We write today to express our full support for the State of Israel in its fight against Hamas. Specifically, we urge your administration to do everything in your power to ensure the safe and expedient release of the hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza in the wake of the vicious October 7th attack," the letter from Rep. Russell Fry, R-S.C., to the White House said.

"Further, we implore the White House to show unwavering support for Israel and to spare no effort to assist the Jewish state in its mission to 1) defeat Hamas and 2) ensure the release of these hostages during this particularly trying time in Israels history," the letter said.

Fry was joined by 15 GOP lawmakers to demand support for Israel.

NETANYAHU NOT CONSULTED ON STRIKE THAT KILLED HAMAS LEADER'S 3 SONS, ISRAELI MEDIA REPORTS

The unexpected and overwhelming assault by at least 1,500 Hamas fighters, who poured into Israel by land and sea, killed about 1,200 people on Oct. 7, 2023.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

More than 250 people were taken hostage and moved to Hamas Gaza stronghold.

"While we recognize the magnitude and complexity of this situation, we must not forget that these savage terrorists have raped and pillaged their way across Israels southern communities," the letter said.

Among the hostages, U.S. officials have said that five are American citizens, though it is unclear whether they are alive.

"As you know, five American citizens are still believed to be hostages of Hamas: Edan Alexander, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Omer Neutra, Hersh Goldberg-Polin and Keith Siegel," the letter said. "As this situation evolved, it quickly became evident that unthinkable acts, such as severe sexual and psychological abuse, had been perpetrated against these hostages."

The group of GOP lawmakers urged the White House to be "aligned" with Israel and that "deviations" from supporting Israel only "harden" Hamas' resolve.

I JUST CAME BACK FROM ISRAEL AND SAW THESE TWO IMPORTANT THINGS

"We strongly believe that the United States should be Israels greatest ally and advocate in the fight to bring these individuals home, particularly considering the international communitys consistent and callous minimization of the condition of these hostages," the letter said. "With this in mind, it is of utmost importance that the United States be aligned with Israel in its goals, as any deviations between Washington, D.C., and Jerusalem only serve to harden Hamass resolve and decrease the chances for hostage negotiations."

House Republicans on Thursday sent a letter to President Biden on Thursday imploring him to bring home American hostages being held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza.

The letter urged Biden to use the "voice, status and power" of the U.S. to bring the hostages home.

"As such, the United States must use its voice, status, and power on the world stage to amplify the plight of these innocent hostages who were ripped from their homes by a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO). As a nation, we must continue to stand with Israel and ensure Jerusalem has everything it needs to execute its right to self-defense against Gaza, Iran, and its other adversaries in the Middle East," the letter said.

TALK OF LOW HOUTHI WEAPON SUPPLY IS PREMATURE, EXPERT WARNS

The letter pointed to Hamas leadership living in Qatar, urging the White House to pressure the opulent country to stop supporting the terrorist group.

"The United States must also pressure Qatar to end its duplicitous role in this crisis. We urge you to pressure Doha to expel the leadership of Hamas from Qatar and to cease its support for the terrorist group," the letter said. "The United States cannot partner with countries that provide a haven to FTOs that continue to kill and entrap innocent individuals. An honest assessment of U.S.-Qatar relations is vital to the safe return of these hostages as well as an end to the Israel-Hamas war."

Rep. Russell Fry, R-S.C.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Fry said that the letter to Biden came after he witnessed first-hand the aftermath of the attacks.

"During our time in Israel, my colleagues and I witnessed first-hand the aftermath of the October 7th attacks and the heartbreaking destruction and disruption of life Israelis have faced," Fry said.

"The Biden administration should not be turning our back on our greatest ally in the Middle East," he said. "The United States must do everything it can to support Israel to defeat Hamas and other terrorists and help ensure the safe release of all hostages taken by Hamas."

Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant speaks during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon, March 26, in Arlington, Va.

On Thursday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, affirming the U.S.' support of Israel.

In a press briefing Thursday, Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said that the U.S. support of Israel was "ironclad."

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

"Secretary Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart this afternoon. Minister Gallant to discuss the current situation in the Middle East and to reaffirm the U.S. ironclad commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and its proxies."

Ryder said that the U.S. is in "close contact" with Israel as the Iran threat continues.





Original article source: House Republicans turn up heat on Biden to broker expedient release of Hamas hostages, support Israel
WASHINGTON (AP)  House Speaker Mike Johnson is negotiating with the White House as he prepares for the treacherous task of advancing wartime funding for Ukraine and Israel through the House, a top House Republican said Thursday.

House Republican Leader Steve Scalise told reporters that Johnson had been talking with White House officials about a package that would deviate from the Senates $95 billion foreign security package and include several Republican demands. It comes after Johnson has delayed for months on advancing aid that would provide desperately needed ammunition and weaponry for Kyiv, trying to find the right time to advance a package that will be a painful political lift.

Theres been no agreement reached, Scalise said. Obviously there would have to an agreement reached not just with the White House, but with our own members.

Johnson, R-La., is being stretched between a Republican conference deeply divided in its support for Ukraine, as well as two presidential contenders at odds over the U.S.s posture towards the rest of the world. President Joe Biden has repeatedly chastised Republicans for not helping Ukraine, saying they are doing the bidding of Russian President Vladimir Putin and hurting U.S. security. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican candidate, has said he would negotiate an end to the conflict as he tries to push the U.S. to a more isolationist stance.

The Republican speaker is set to travel to the former presidents Mar-a-Lago club in Florida on Friday to meet with Trump and has been consulting him in recent weeks on the Ukraine funding to gain his support  or at least prevent him from openly opposing the package.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, an Oklahoma Republican who often works closely with House lawmakers, said this week he and Trump have spoken with Johnson in depth about how to advance Ukraine aid. It is not clear whether Trump would lend any political support, but Mullin said he was hoping to get the former president behind the package, especially now that Johnsons job is at stake.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican, has threatened to try to oust Johnson as speaker and warned that advancing funding for Ukraine would help build her case that GOP lawmakers should select a new speaker.

Meanwhile, Johnson has been in conversations with the White House about legislation that would structure some of the funding for Kyiv as loans, pave the way for the U.S. to tap frozen Russian central bank assets and include other policy changes.

Johnson has also been pushing for the Biden administration to lift a pause on approvals for Liquefied Natural Gas exports. At times, he has also demanded policy changes at the U.S. border with Mexico.

This becomes a more dangerous world with Russia in Kyiv, said Rep. Don Bacon, a Republican who supports aiding Ukraine. So were just got to find a the smart way to get a bill passed that we can get out and back to the Senate.

Still, Johnson is facing a practically open rebellion from a group of hardline House conservatives who are dissatisfied with the way he has led the House. With a narrow and divided majority, Johnson has been forced to work with Democrats to advance practically any major legislation.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Thursday that the only path forward for the House was a vote on the Senates national security package. He also suggested that Democrats would help Johnson hold onto the speakers gavel if he did so.

While Democrats have pressured Johnson to put the Senate package to a vote, they also may be divided on a vote as a growing number oppose sending Israel offensive weaponry while it engages in a campaign in Gaza that has killed thousands of civilians.

The Biden administration, which would administer any military funding, has issued stern warnings to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that future U.S. support depends on the swift implementation of new steps to protect civilians and aid workers.

If we want to prevent handing Putin a victory in Europe, the House should do the right thing for democracy and pass the Senates aid package now, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Thursday in a floor speech.

___

Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro contributed.
A Houston-area high school teacher is accused of helping her adult son by recruiting female students for prostitution, police say.

Kedria Grigsby, 42, and her son Roger Magee, 22, are charged with felony sex trafficking and compelling prostitution, the Harris County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday in a Facebook post.

Grigsby also is charged with three counts of child trafficking and three counts of compelling prostitution of juveniles, according to the sheriff's office.

The sheriff's office believes Grigsby helped Magee, who was arrested in November 2022 and later charged with the alleged sexual assault of an underage teenage girl and sex trafficking, Harris County court records show. Magee, who has pleaded not guilty in that case and is awaiting trial, is currently in the Harris County Jail, according to the Facebook post.

USA TODAY contacted Grigsby's and Magee's lawyers on Friday but have not received a response.

Handcuffs are pictured.

More details about the allegations against Kedria Grigsby

The sheriff's office said that Grigsby helped her son by recruiting "troubled juveniles from local high schools by offering them a place to stay, which would be a hotel."

Three girls, ages 15, 16 and 17, attended the high school Grigsby taught at in the Klein Independent School District in the northern Houston suburb of Klein, according to the sheriff's office. The three girls were reported runaways, the department added.

More teens have come forward and said that Grigsby also attempted to recruit them while attending school, the sheriff's office said. The sheriff's office is conducting a follow-up investigation with them, according to the Facebook post.

Kedria Grigsby posts bond, is released

Grigsby posted a $750,000 bond and is no longer in the Harris County jail, inmate records show.

USA TODAY attempted to reach Grigsby through listed numbers and emails but did not immediately get a response Friday.

As part of Grisby's release conditions, she cannot contact the girls connected to the case, be within 1,000 feet of an area where children commonly gather or have access to a phone or the Internet, according to court records.

Text messages between Grigsby and her son about an alleged payment for prostitution services were shown during a court hearing, KRIV-TV in Houston reported.

Human trafficking: A network of crime hidden across a vast American landscape

Kedria Grigsby no longer employed by school district

Independent School District said in a statement to USA TODAY on Friday that Grigsby was a cosmetology teacher at Klein Cain High School and is no longer on the payroll.

The district said that Grigsby "will not return to Klein Cain or any Klein ISD school in any capacity, and we will continue to thoroughly investigate and prosecute any individual who betrays the trust of our students, families, and community."

Accusations against Grigsby were initially brought up in February 2023 to human resources, who reported the information to the school district's police department, the district said.

School police then contacted the Harris County Sheriff's Office, who told the district that Grigsby was not a suspect, according to the district.

"The district received no other allegations or reports of criminal activities related to Kedria Grigsby until this Monday, April 8, 2024, when the Harris County Sheriff's Department contacted our police department regarding charges and a pending arrest," the district said. "That same day, the Klein Police Department immediately apprehended Kedria Grigsby and assisted the Harris County Sheriffs Office with her arrest.

"Every potential employee must pass multiple background checks before being hired," the district said, adding that Grigsby had a clear background check and criminal record until she was arrested.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Klein, Texas teacher charged with recruiting students for prostitution
CHANGSHA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The latest monitoring data revealed a significant expansion of the Dongting Lake, China's second-largest freshwater lake located in Hunan Province, with its surface area increasing by approximately 80 percent since the beginning of this month.

The lake's surface area reached about 950 square km, expanding by 420 square km since April 1, according to the latest monitoring data as of 8 a.m. on Friday.

The province's Dongting Lake water conversancy affairs center said on Friday that the half-year-long dry season had come to an end with increased precipitation across the region since the flood season started in April.

The water level at the lake's landmark Chenglingji hydrological station rebounded to 25.78 meters as of 8 a.m. on Friday, 3.63 meters higher compared to last year's readings during the same period.

Between 2022 and 2023, the Dongting Lake experienced low water levels due to factors such as dry weather and insufficient upstream water inflow. Several hydrological stations recorded their lowest water levels on record during this period, affecting production and people's daily life in the surrounding areas.

During the 2023 flood season, water levels of the Dongting Lake showed some recovery. However, starting from Oct. 17, 2023, it once again entered a period of low water levels.

Statistics from the provincial meteorological and hydrological departments showed that, as of 8 a.m. on Friday, the accumulated precipitation in Hunan since the beginning of this year reached 392.9 mm, a 15.4 percent increase compared to the same period in previous years.

Since the onset of the flood season, the accumulated precipitation has reached 111.5 mm, which is 83.4 percent above the average for the same period in previous years.

The rise in water level of the lake also shows potential higher flood pressure this year, according to the provincial meteorological and hydrological authorities. 
The Idaho State Legislature adjourned its 2024 session on Wednesday having passed three new laws that target gender-affirming care, permit the practice of misgendering and deadnaming in public schools, and define gender as a binary sexual concept. Republican Gov. Brad Little signed all three bills with some taking effect in a few months.

House Bill 668, bans public funds including Medicaid from covering gender-affirming care. The bill was sent to the governor on March 26 and signed the following day. The law becomes effective on July 1.

House Bill 421 defines gender as a synonym for biological sex and shall not be considered a synonym for gender identity, an internal sense of gender, experienced gender, gender expression, or gender role. The bill was sent to the governor on April 3 and was signed on April 9.

Also sent to the governor on April 3 was House Bill 538, which requires educators to address unemancipated minor students by their legal name or a derivative thereof unless they have obtained the written consent of the students parent or guardian. The law allows educators and students to misgender or deadname others without any resulting disciplinary action.This year's legislative attacks against the LGBTQ+ community continue a trend in the state.

Related: Thousands of paper hearts flood Idaho capital as lawmakers pass anti-LGBTQ+ bills

Last year Idaho signed a new law that banned gender-affirming care for minors, with potential felony charges and up to 10 years in jail for some violations. The law banned not only gender-affirming surgery but also puberty blockers and hormone therapy. A federal appeals court has blocked the law from taking effect while it considers a lawsuit filed by two trans teens who say the law violates their rights to equal protection.





After House Bill 538 was signed into law, protestors showered the rotunda of the Idaho State Capital building in Boise with 48,000 small paper hearts. Organizers said the hearts represented the number of folks in the states LGBTQ+ community and also sent a message that the communitys voice goes unheard in the states legislature.

It feels like they have not been listening, Rebecca De Leon, spokesperson for the ACLU of Idaho, told the Idaho Statesman, so we wanted to come bring the hearts to them.
Idaho insurance companies paid how much on dog bite injuries in 2023? Its in the millions

Is Idaho going to the dogs? That may depend on the context and who youre asking, but one thing is sure: $5 million went toward settling dog bite-related injuries in Idaho in 2023.

The Insurance Information Institute and State Farm released a new report this week stating that home insurers in the United States paid $1.12 billion for 19,062 dog-bite-related claims nationwide.

Fortunately, only 91 of those claims originated in Idaho. However, this still meant that home insurers in the state paid, on average, $55,291 per claim.

The report comes amid Dog Bite Prevention Week, a movement started by the American Veterinary Medical Association to educate people on why dogs bite and what can be done to prevent them from biting.

Dog bites in Idaho

More than 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs each year, according to the AVMA. Children are the most common victims, with most incidents occurring during everyday activities while interacting with a familiar dog.

For so many of us, our dogs are family, and millions of times each day, people and dogs interact happily, without any negative consequences, Kenton Brine, president of the NW Insurance Council, stated in a news release. And most of the time, dog bites can be prevented through education and responsible dog ownership.

Between a mix of good owners and good dogs, Idahos dog bite-related insurance claims are trending down.

In 2023, the 91 insurance claims made in Idaho was a 23% decrease from 2022, and the $5 million paid by home insurers is a 16% decrease from 2022.

How to prevent your dog from biting people

As Brine mentioned, the most common incident of a dog biting someone occurs when the person interacts with a dog the person is already familiar with.

Often, this can be because a dog is reactive  that doesnt mean its aggressive or poorly trained, but it is reacting to a situation it doesnt like.

An aggressive dog is actively pursuing something; theyre aggressing toward things, Devin Martin, a trainer at Positive Pets Dog Training in Boise, previously told the Idaho Statesman. Reactive is when a situation is created, and then they react to it. So thats the difference. For me, the reactivity is way more common than aggression.

Martin said its possible to train a dog out of reactive behavior, but its different for every dog. One of the most common ways is to avoid rewarding dogs for reacting to negative stimuli.

This is a common thing I see with toy breeds, Martin previously said. The dogs are barking and lunging, and then people pick them up and cuddle them. Thats definitely something you want to avoid doing.

The NW Insurance Council and Insurance Information Institute also offered some tips to help prevent your dog from biting someone:

Socialize your dog so it becomes more comfortable around people and other animals. Take it slow, and always have your dog on a leash in public so its easier to control. Boise law requires dogs to always be on a leash unless an area explicitly says dogs are allowed off-leash.

Teach young children the basics of dog safety, such as not disturbing a dog if it is sleeping or eating.

Play non-aggressive games such as fetch rather than tug-of-war.

Always ask an owner for permission to pet a dog if its not yours or an unfamiliar dog.

Do not quickly approach an unfamiliar dog and avoid making eye contact with a dog that appears threatening.
Its time for the words no one in Boise ever wants to hear: Gov. Brad Little needs to call lawmakers back to the Capitol immediately.

Idaho lawmakers desire to be done with the legislative session and get back home to campaign before the May primary could soon cost your grandparents dearly.

A bill designed to give the Legislature more direct control over the states Medicaid program seems to have been poorly drafted. On top of that, it was slapped with an emergency clause that made it take effect immediately.

The bill, House Bill 398, requires that the Legislature give its approval to certain Medicaid waivers, which allow the state flexibility in its implementation of the mostly federally funded program. Little signed the bill Monday, but in his transmittal letter noted that it could have catastrophic consequences if lawmakers didnt follow up with a bill clarifying that ongoing programs werent subject to the law.

In all, over $100 million in unexpected and unintended Medicaid cuts could be made by the bill if it wasnt followed up with an amendment, Little warned lawmakers.

Imminent action by the Legislature is necessary to provide the state with clarity and confidence that legal authority exists to continue with program implementation, Little wrote.

Rep. Megan Blanksma, R-Hammett, the bills sponsor, told the Idaho Capital Sun that the bill wasnt intended to disrupt current programs. She indicated that a trailer bill like Little discussed had been drafted. But this week, the Legislature adjourned without passing it.

The medical providers directly impacted are panicked. They inundated the governors office with panicked letters outlining their concerns before the end of the session:

If this bill (the trailer bill) does not pass, we think this will be the largest cut to the Medicaid program in the history of Idaho and we doubt this was the intention of most legislators who voted to pass the bill. There is no option to wait for a special session, wrote Robert Vande Merwe, executive director of the Idaho Health Care Association.

We are deeply concerned that this law could disrupt the implementation of Idaho Behavioral Health Plan amendments, redirect payouts to Idahos skilled nursing facilities, halt up to $70 million in rate adjustments for providers, and prevent the submission of approval of $4 million for the reinstatement of personal care services management, wrote Matt Bell, president of the Idaho Association of Health Plans.

Without an amendment, the current enacted Idaho HB 398 mandates that IDHW immediately cease implementing waiver amendments of the (Idaho Behavioral Health Plan), including certain behavioral health services and residential treatment centers for substance use and psychiatric disorders. The IBHP provides essential services including care for persons with serious mental illness, addiction, and autism. Without needed care, the risk for adverse outcomes and higher downstream costs is very real, wrote Magellan Behavioral Health president and chief medical officer Caroline P. Carney.

A $100 million cut through legislative fumbling cant simply be allowed to stand. Especially not when its what allows seniors with no assets remaining to stay in nursing homes, or what pays for people with disabilities to have their basic needs for life met.

Little has a big lever he can pull to help fix this problem, and he should pull it. He can call a special session  not in a few months, not after the primary, but now.

Why should lawmakers have time to go home and campaign to keep their jobs if they havent finished their work? Or, if they really do intend to cut off care to seniors, the disabled and people with serious mental health disorders, let them make that intention clear so that voters can take it into account this election cycle.

Bryan Clark is an opinion writer with the Idaho Statesman.
IDF fires artillery shells into Gaza. Israeli forces launched a fresh deployment in the central Gaza Strip in the early hours of Thursday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced. Ilia yefimovich/dpa

Israeli forces launched a fresh deployment in the central Gaza Strip in the early hours of Thursday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said.

The announcement referred to "a precise, intelligence-based operation to eliminate terrorist operatives and strike terrorist infrastructure in central Gaza."

Israeli combat jets had struck targets above and below the ground before the IDF ground forces moved in, it added.

The military said that its troops had "identified an armed terrorist who exited a terror tunnel shaft adjacent to IDF troops and entered a military structure." A combat jet targeted him as he approached the IDF troops.

Several rocket launcher ramps had been found, and the Israeli navy had fired on several targets in the area, it said.

Emergency workers in the area reported that at least five Palestinians had died in a residential block in the Nuseirat Camp for refugees, which lies south-west of Gaza City.

In Gaza's south, six people were killed in Rafah in a suspected airstrike by Israeli forces on the city on the Egyptian border, Palestinian paramedics in the area reported.

An IDF spokesman declined to comment on the specific incident, but said that in response to the "barbaric attacks" by Palestinian militant organization Hamas, "the IDF is operating to dismantle Hamas military and administrative capabilities."

He added: "In stark contrast to Hamas' intentional attacks on Israeli men, women and children, the IDF follows international law and takes feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm."

A key Hamas financier was also killed in an airstrike in the Gaza Strip, the IDF said.

Nasser Yakob Jabber Nasser "was responsible for financing a significant part of Hamas' military activities in Rafah," the military said. Last December, he transferred hundreds of thousands of dollars to Hamas, it added.

More than 1 million refugees are crowded into Rafah. Despite international warnings, Israel is planning a military operation there to dismantle what Israel claims are the last Hamas battalions.

According to the Hamas-controlled health authorities, more than 33,500 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war triggered by the Hamas-led attacks on Israel more than six months ago. More than 76,000 Palestinians have been injured. The numbers do not distinguish between combatants and civilians.

In the attack by Hamas and other Palestinian militants on the Israeli border area on October 7, more than 1,200 people were killed and, according to Israeli media, over 250 people were abducted to the Gaza Strip.

Earlier this week, the IDF withdrew the bulk of its forces from parts of southern Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nevertheless insists that a ground assault on the remaining intact Hamas forces in Rafah is imminent, despite international calls for it to be called off.
IDF says first Gaza food aid trucks have entered through northern Israel crossing

The Israel Defense Forces said Friday that the first food aid trucks entered Gaza through the Kerem Shalom northern Israel crossing Thursday. They entered a day after USAID said it was "credible" to assess that famine is already occurring in parts of Gaza. Photo courtesy of IDF

April 12 (UPI) -- The Israel Defense Forces said Friday that the first food aid trucks have gone into Gaza from the newly opened northern crossing from Israel.

The IDF announced the effort, in collaboration with Israel's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, in a post on X.

"The trucks underwent thorough security checks by the security authorities of the Land Crossings Authority of the Ministry of Defense at the Kerem Shalom crossing, and were accompanied by IDF soldiers," the IDF said on X.

COGAT also confirmed the crossing on X Friday, saying the vehicles underwent "rigorous checks."

"In accordance with the decision of the government of Israel, the trucks entered through the new Northern Crossing from Israel into Gaza yesterday, as part of efforts to enhance the humanitarian aid corridors to Gaza in general, and to the North in particular," it said.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced the approval of the crossing and measures to increase the flow of aid through a port in Ashdod on Wednesday.

The announcement came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week agreed to open new routes following a conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden.

Netanyahu said at the time the "increased aid will prevent a humanitarian crisis."

However, Samantha Power, administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, said Wednesday that an assessment from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification in mid-March that found that famine could set in between late March and mid-May was "credible."

Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, then asked if that means "famine is already occurring there?"

"That is -- yes," Power replied.

According to U.S. officials Gaza aid is also hampered by a lack of trucks and drivers in Gaza due to the damage and danger caused by the war.

Trucks entering Gaza are screened, unloaded in Gaza and reloaded onto different trucks operating inside Gaza.
The Illinois Department of Public Health is giving $2 million to improve access to abortion.

The money will go to three different organizations. The Midwest Access Project, Planned Parenthood of Illinois and the University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing are getting the money. They will use the funding to provide training that will increase access to safe abortions across Illinois.

For more information, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
SPRINGFIELD  The Illinois Senate has approved a measure that would bar consumer reporting agencies from including a persons medical debt in their credit reports.

You cannot predict when you get sick or suffer an injury. You may be the best financial (planner) in the world having paid all your bills, but unexpectedly get sick and suddenly you cant pay your bills, state Sen. Steve Stadelman, a Rockford-area Democrat, said during a news conference at the state Capitol. No one should have to go into medical debt just to get the quality health care they need. No one should ever have to make a horrible choice between their physical health and their financial health.

The Senate passed the measure in a bipartisan 58-0 vote on Thursday, and it now heads to the House for consideration.

The legislation makes it illegal for consumer reporting agencies to make, create, or furnish any consumer report or credit report containing, incorporating, or reflecting any adverse information related to a consumers medical debt. However, the measure does not apply to medical debt charged to a credit card or an open-end or closed-end extension of credit from a bank unless the credit extension was limited to the purchase of health care services.

This legislation, I want to stress, does not mean consumers dont have to pay that medical debt and their medical bills, Stadelman said. I just believe medical debt is different than other debt. Its spontaneous.

Amid rising medical costs and debt, states including New York and Colorado have recently passed laws similar to what Stadelman has proposed.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker separately has proposed erasing as much as $1 billion in medical debt for more than 300,000 Illinois families as part of his latest state budget plan for the fiscal year beginning July 1. An earlier initiative in Cook County was on track to wipe out medical bills for around 73,000 residents as of last year. It was targeted at lower income residents and those who had medical debt that was 5% or more of their household income.

Its a complicated, wide-ranging problem. So any tool we can use to address this problem I think (is) another good solution to it, Stadelman said.

Dan Schneider, a supervisory attorney for Legal Access Chicago, a public interest law firm that helps people in poverty, said he supports the bill and that medical debt deserves to be kept separate from other financial burdens.

Think about what a credit score is. Its supposed to be a measure of how risky you are to make a loan to, to approve a credit card or a mortgage. But credit cards and mortgages are voluntary agreements that people enter into, unlike medical debt, Schneider said during the news conference. I mean, whens the last time you ever heard (of) someone getting an elective kidney transplant, just for fun?
The U.S. continues to closely monitor what it deems to be "credible" threats of an Iranian attack on Israel in response to a strike on Irans Damascus consulate, even as reports indicate that Iran is looking to deploy a non-escalatory response.

The U.S. is also moving "additional assets" to the Middle East region "to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for U.S. forces," a U.S. defense official told Fox News on Friday.

"I would just say that we're watching this very, very closely," U.S. National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby told reporters on Friday. "We still deemed the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable, certainly credible, and we're watching it as closely as we can."

"Right now, our focus is on having a conversation with our Israeli counterparts and making sure not just conversations, but making sure that they have what they need and that they're able to defend themselves," Kirby added. "We're also clear it would be imprudent if we didn't take a look at our own posture in the region to make sure that we're properly prepared as well."

Kirby assured that the U.S. remains in "constant communication" with Israeli counterparts to make sure they are ready for attack but refused to "armchair quarterback in a public way in terms of the conversations were having or what were seeing in the intelligence picture."

ISRAELI PM, MILITARY LEADERS HOLD EMERGENCY MEETING AMID POSSIBLE DIRECT IRANIAN ATTACK

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Tehran has continued to threaten a response against Israel for the attack on an Iranian consulate in Damascus that killed seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members, including two generals. Hezbollah leadership over the weekend at the annual Quds Day commemoration in Iran also touted their readiness and willingness to launch retaliation against Israel for the attack.

U.S. CENTCOM Gen. Michael Kurilla has been in Israel, where he met with IDF Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen Hezi Halevi and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to assess military preparedness, moving up his plans due to the threats from Iran, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed during a press conference Thursday. Ryder did not speculate as to any specific threats from Iran to Israel, even as Tehran continues to promise action.

From left: Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The State Department also issued new travel advisories for Israel on Thursday, restricting U.S. government employees and their families from traveling outside major cities. The department warns, "Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning."

Iran has signaled to Washington that it will respond to Israels attack on the Damascus consulate, but may do so in a way that aims to avoid major escalation and will not act hastily, Reuters reported Thursday.

US RESTRICTS STAFF IN ISRAEL FROM TRAVELING OUTSIDE CITIES AS IRAN ATTACK THREAT PERSISTS

Israel, as of Thursday night, had not issued any special instructions from its Home Front Command but stressed that Israelis would be immediately notified of any steps taken as the state remains "on a high state of alert and preparedness," The Jerusalem Post reported.

During an appearance on Fridays "FOX & Friends," Gen. Jack Keane of the Institute for the Study of War (IFSW) said an attack will happen at some point because Iran "cannot avoid the international publicity surrounding the taking down of the IRGC headquarters in Syria," saying it was "just a reality" but adding that Iran will likely pursue a "measured response" and does not really want escalation.

"I think theyre very much enjoying the psychological impact that this is having, not only on Israel but also on the world writ-large," Keane said. "I think were taking the precautions we should be taking, to protect our own people, and certainly Israel is doing that.

"Iran has their finger on the trigger here This much we know: Iran doesnt want any escalation of this that would lead to a war with Israel or the United States, and that has been the fact from the beginning of the war in Gaza when they operationalized all of their proxies to join in that effort that Hamas started."

HOUSE REPUBLICANS TURN UP HEAT ON BIDEN TO BROKER EXPEDIENT RELEASE OF HAMAS HOSTAGES, SUPPORT ISRAEL

Keane suggested that the best way to handle Iran was to destroy its IRGC assets in Iran, because "Iran does not want to escalate," claiming Iran has "a weak air force a weak navy" and "not particularly well-trained or well-equipped" troops  instead, he argued that Iran relies heavily on its drone and missile arsenal.

"Iran knows that war with them would destroy their regime economically, and they are likely to lose it," Keane insisted. "The leverage has always been on the side of Israel, the United States and the West, but we absolutely refuse to use it."

Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told Fox News Digital that Iran is better positioned to benefit from sitting back and letting tensions remain high while not actually launching any attack.

"Despite the regime thoroughly benefiting from the wall-to-wall coverage of its impending "retaliation" against Israel, the more the delay, the greater the expectation for a larger attack, and the greater the likelihood of an even stronger Israeli kinetic reprisal," he said.

"To date, Iran has never fired at Israel directly from its own territory, nor has it ever fired ballistic missiles from its own territory at defended targets," Taleblu said, noting that Iran could look to launch an attack from its navy or cruise missiles from outside Iranian territory.

"There are challenges aplenty for Iran: A strike that fails or is successfully intercepted will show the Islamic Republic as weak and invite more pressure; a strike that is successful will likely be responded to and beget a cycle of escalation Tehran can ill afford," he explained.

"Thats why [Iran's Ayatollah Ali] Khameneis most important legacy as supreme leader for over three decades has been avoiding an outright war while keeping his ideological disposition," Taleblu added. "He now faces the greatest challenge to that today."





Original article source: Imminent attack from Iran keeps Israel on alert as US admits 'credible' threat from terror state
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  An Imperial Beach man was indicted for allegedly storming the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection, federal prosecutors said in a release on Friday.

Joshua Youngerman, 23, was charged with six criminal counts  one felony and multiple misdemeanors  in connection to the deadly riot that disrupted a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election.

According to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Youngerman entered the Capitol at about 2:37 p.m. on Jan. 6, 2021 after attending the Stop the Steal rally held by former President Donald Trump.

Actor from NCIS, Shameless arrested for allegedly breaching US Capitol on Jan. 6

He was seen on the Capitols closed-circuit television footage climbing up a rope on its northwest wall near a stairway just before entering the building, prosecutors say.

CCTV footage showing a man, identified as Joshua Youngerman, scaling the side of the U.S. Capitol building on Jan. 6, 2021 using a rope. (U.S. District Court Criminal Complaint)

After entering the building, the U.S. Attorney says Youngerman proceeded to the Rotunda of the Capitol building before exiting through the Upper West Terrace Door a short time later.

He was arrested by FBI agents on July 24, 2023 in San Diego as a part of the years-long investigation into the attack.

In the course of the investigation, prosecutors say Youngerman was identified as an alleged member of a group on the platform Telegram known as The California Patriots  DC Brigade, or DC Brigade.

This group was used to communicate and coordinate travel to Washington, D.C. for the Stop the Steal rally that led up to the breach of the Capitol building.

Prosecutors say the About section of the Telegram group described it as a place that would serve as the Comms for able bodied individuals that are going to DC on Jan. 6. Many of us have not met before and we are all ready and willing to be engaged in this fight.

Youngerman was involved in the groups chat, prosecutors add, introducing himself by saying he had [n]o police or military experience but has had to throw hands on multiple occasions and have a little bit of MMA training.

According to the U.S. Attorney, he was also active on Twitter, now called X, ahead of the Jan. 6 insurrection, sharing statements like Then I guess us Patriots will just riot then. Show what their actions has caused, about the 2020 election results.

Following the events of Jan. 6, prosecutors say Youngerman took to social media again to share a series of posts about his time in Washington, D.C. In one such post, he reportedly said I am in full support of storming and occupying the Capital from the inside and out. That was the original intent for many. We came to claim back our house.

The charges against Youngerman were updated in a superseding indictment filed on Wednesday. With the indictment, he faces one felony charge for obstruction of a federal proceeding, as well as multiple misdemeanors including:

Disorderly or disruptive conduct on Capitol grounds.

Knowingly entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds.

Stepping and climbing on any erection or architectural feature on Capitol grounds.

Unlawful parading, demonstrating or picketing on any Capitol grounds.

Youngerman is scheduled to be arraigned for the new charges on April 30 in a Washington, D.C. federal court. He previously plead not guilty to all counts.

Peter Navarro is 1st Trump White House official to serve prison time related to Jan. 6 attack

Since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,387 individuals have been charged for crimes related to the breach of the Capitol, according to the U.S. Attorney. Of those, 493 people have been charged with felonies tied to assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Youngerman is one of at least nine San Diego County residents who have been arrested or charged in connection to the Jan. 6 attacks  several of whom are already serving out sentences for those crimes.

Another San Diego resident, Ashli Babbitt, was among the five people who died during the attack. Babbitt was fatally shot by a U.S. Capitol police officer while attempting to climb through a broken window next to a barricaded door that leads to the Speakers Lobby.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
An aerial drone photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows the airport economy zone in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

A shop owner arranges knitwear garments at a knitwear market in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province, April 9, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows an exhibition hall of a garment company in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

Designers work at a fashion company in the airport economy zone in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province, April 9, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows a view of a knitwear market in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows an integrated digital platform in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

Designers work at a fashion company in the airport economy zone in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province, April 9, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows a view of a knitwear market in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows an automated production line of a fashion company in the airport economy zone in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows a digital knitwear workshop at a fashion company in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

People select knitwear garments at a knitwear market in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province, April 9, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

This photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows an exhibition hall of a garment company in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 9, 2024 shows the building of a knitwear market in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

Visitors look on in a dedicated area where a total of 42 knitwear companies, shops and designer brands from Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province take part in the spring edition of China International Knitting Fair in east China's Shanghai, March 6, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Merchants visit the booth of a company from Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province during the spring edition of China International Knitting Fair in east China's Shanghai, March 6, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

A shop owner arranges knitwear garments at a knitwear market in Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province, April 9, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

Designers of a fashion company from Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province work on new designs at its office in east China's Shanghai, April 9, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Models stage a knitwear show presenting products from companies from Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province during the spring edition of China International Knitting Fair in east China's Shanghai, March 6, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

A model presents a work from one of the companies from Puyuan Town of east China's Zhejiang Province stage a knitwear show during the spring edition of China International Knitting Fair in east China's Shanghai, March 6, 2024. Puyuan, the biggest knitwear center in China, witnessed its knitwear business volume exceeding 130 billion yuan (about 17.96 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

In recent years, Puyuan has been ramping up efforts to develop itself into an advanced industrial cluster of knitwear in the Yangtze River Delta. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)
(Bloomberg) -- The victory of South Koreas main opposition party in parliamentary elections has made its leader a top contender for president in 2027, as long as he can manage a fickle public and stay ahead of a legal battle that could land him in prison before then.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Lee Jae-myung emerged from the election with a strong enough majority for the progressive bloc led by his Democratic Party to dictate the course of legislation and pressure the conservative ruling People Power Party to make concessions if it wants to get anything done.

An advocate of a universal basic income, Lee had proposed while he was on the campaign trail a total 13 trillion won ($9.5 billion) in cash handouts to citizens as a way to revive the economy. His Democratic Party has been looking to increase taxes on wealthy individuals and the chaebol conglomerates that dominate the corporate landscape.

Its all quite a turnaround for a person who lost the presidential race in 2022 by a razor-thin margin and was then indicted over a variety of bribery and breach of duty charges. This raised questions within his party over whether he was damaging its image, but the victory in the Wednesday election showed he can connect with voters.

Lee has managed to make the Democratic Party his party and cement his grip on power while embracing the moderates, said Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University in South Korea.

Voters discontent and the desire to hand down a verdict on the government appears to have overshadowed Lees own legal problems, Shin said.

Read more: South Korea Parliament Approves Opposition Leader Arrest Warrant

Lees Democratic Party bloc expanded its majority with 175 seats, according to the National Election Commission, a major victory that paves the way for the opposition leader to take the drivers seat and eye another try at the presidency.

A former factory worker who later became a civil rights lawyer, Lee has been in politics for more than 15 years as a member of the progressive camp  becoming governor of Gyeonggi province surrounding Seoul in 2018. He has pushed to make the country Asias first to introduce a universal basic income.

He is also one of the most polarizing political figures in the country with a fervent base of supporters on the left and a large block of opponents in the conservative camp. Lee has been clouded by scandals in his personal life and a probe into land speculation in Seongnam, a city where Lee served as mayor. He has denied any wrongdoing and called the legal proceedings against him politically motivated.

Read more: South Korean Party Leader Was Stabbed by Stalker Over Politics

Lee survived a stabbing earlier this year that police said appeared to be politically motivated.

Lee appeared at court just two days after the election, a second appearance in a week, demonstrating the headwinds he will face if he tries again for the presidency.

Entering the courtroom Friday, Lee declined to respond to reporters asking about the possibility of losing his parliamentary seat pending court rulings.

Also getting the spotlight is Cho Kuk, who launched a new party a month before the election that went on to garner 12 seats  the third largest of all parties that competed in this years parliamentary vote.

Cho, a justice minister during the administration of Yoons predecessor Moon Jae-in, had left office in disgrace. He was charged and later convicted of academic fraud and unlawful interference with a government inspection. The case is now pending appeal at the countrys top court.

Cho may also battle Lee for attention and his party has enough votes in parliament that it could be the difference-maker in steamrolling legislation through the body. How Lee and Cho may cooperate is an open question, but the two left the election with new winds in their sails.

Park Won-ho, a political science professor at Seoul National University, said it might be about time to accept that there are as many people who think Lee and Cho should go to jail as there are people who support them as political opposition leaders.

At least thats what this weeks vote results are telling us, Park said.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
New Indy Containerboard plant case back in court over odor complaints

COLUMBIA, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A U.S. District Court Judge heard more arguments in a years-long New Indy Containerboard plant motion hearing Thursday morning at a district court in Columbia.

Counsels presented arguments on odor complaints and class certification for the case to go to trial by jury. Both counsels will return Friday at 11 a.m. to continue their motion hearings.

The sides explained their trial plans, detailing how they will prove to a jury whether New Indy is liable for damages or personal injury resulting from a smell from which Lancaster County neighbors claim theyve experienced significant health issues.

During the early part of the hearing, the judge listened to summary judgment arguments about what would be argued at trial. During the second half of the hearing, the judge heard arguments on Class Certification  whether the trial will be based on a class or individual basis (if plaintiffs must file a separate suit).

Two days of New Indy class action lawsuit hearings begin in Columbia

The defendants counsel argues that there isnt enough evidence for a jury to prove that the company did something wrong, while the plaintiffs counsel says otherwise and that there is more than enough evidence.

Defendants counsel says the plaintiffs cant show past treatment for the alleged symptoms that theyre having, like burning eyes, throat irritation, vomiting, and nausea.

Attorneys claim no medical support for the plaintiffs theory that their exposure caused those alleged symptoms, while the plaintiffs prove otherwise.

The plaintiffs counsel says through March and April of 2021, the EPA received 310 complaints of headaches, burning eyes, nausea, and throat irritation. Since then, DHEC has logged over 50,000 complaints.

I think they want it to go away. And I think even by the fact that was mentioned today, that at the beginning it was one smell and which was like that really rotten egg, nauseating smell, and then it turned into this sweet smell, was something that they put in to try and cover it again, the plaintiff said.

The U.S. District Court judge says the trial should be completed by July 8.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Every weekend, Ukrainians rally to support the families of prisoners of war and advocate for the release of those still in Russian captivity. We spoke to former prisoners of war and relatives of POWs at one of the recent protests in Kyiv.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
AUSTIN (KXAN/AP)  A Texas semitrailer driver rammed a stolen 18-wheeler into a public safety building where his renewal for a commercial drivers license had been rejected, killing one person and injuring 13 others, authorities said Friday.

The driver  identified as Clenard Parker, 42  was pulled out of the truck by authorities after smashing into a Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town of Brenham, outside of Houston, Sgt. Justin Ruiz said.

Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. (AP Photo/Lekan Oyekanmi)

First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP)

First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP)

First responders on the scene after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety office on US-290 in Brenham, Texas on Friday, April 12, 2024. The driver of a stolen semitrailer intentionally rammed it into the Texas public safety office in a rural town west of Houston on Friday, injuring multiple people, according to a state lawmaker. (Meredith Seaver /College Station Eagle via AP)

Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. (AP Photo/Lekan Oyekanmi)

Emergency personnel work at the scene after an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham, Texas, Friday, April 12, 2024. A suspect is in custody in connection to a commercial vehicle crash at the Texas Department of Public Safety office in the rural town west of Houston. Texas DPS officials say multiple injuries were reported in the crash. (AP Photo/Lekan Oyekanmi)

Authorities say Parker was taken into custody but did not say which charges he would face.

This deliberate, heinous act is a reminder of the dangerous work done by our law enforcement and licensing agencies that work to provide public safety and services, Republican state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst said in the statement.

The department said DPS troopers were in a pursuit involving the stolen vehicle when it went into the building.

Of those injured, two people were flown to CHI St. Josephs Hospital in Bryan, one was flown to Memorial Hermann in Houston and three people were transported to Baylor Scott and White in Brenham but have since been released. Eight people were treated on the scene. Kolkhorst said in the statement that no DPS staff suffered serious injuries and one staffer was trapped for a period of time in the building.

Texas DPS officials said in a social media post on X that the crash happened at the agencys office in Brenham, Texas, located about 75 miles (120 kilometers) west of Houston and requested people avoid the area to clear the way for responding medical personnel.

The Texas Rangers are investigating the incident and there is no further threat, DPS officials said Friday.

Images from the scene showed a large, red tractor-trailer hauling material on a flatbed in the parking lot of the building. The front end of the 18-wheeler was damaged and covered with debris from the front doors of the office. Debris was also scattered out front near a gaping hole in the entrance.

The Texas Department of Public Safety is a sprawling agency and one of the largest state law enforcement operations in the country. It includes troopers who are a central part of a massive border security operation on the U.S.-Mexico border as well as the Texas Rangers, the states top criminal investigators. But the department also has offices across the state that issue drivers licenses.

City of Brenham officials did not immediately respond to calls seeking further information.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
FILE - An officer listens to a question as he directs people to a courtroom, Jan. 10, 2024, in an immigration court in Miami. The number of international migrants who came to Miami-Dade County last year  more than 54,000 people  was the most in the U.S. Florida topped U.S. states with more than 178,000 international migrants last year, or 15% of the U.S. total. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, file)

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)  International migrants were attracted to some of the largest urban counties in the U.S. last year, an influx that helped some of those areas recover from the loss of local residents and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Census Bureau figures show.

More than 1.1 million people moved to the U.S. last year, driving population gains at a time when immigration has become a hot-button election issue during the race for the White House and Congress. Newcomers from abroad accounted for more than two-thirds of U.S. population growth last year, according to the bureau's population estimates.

Population estimates published last month show which counties attracted international migrants last year but don't distinguish between those in the country legally or illegally. More than half of the foreign-born population in the U.S. live in just four states: California, Texas, Florida and New York. But the numbers alone only tell part of the story.

FLORIDA

Florida's Miami-Dade County saw the arrival of more than 54,000 people last year, the most of any county in the U.S., according to the estimates.

Florida as a whole received more than 178,000 international migrants last year, 15% of the U.S. total. More than 7 in 10 went to the Sunshine State's five most populous and urban counties: Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach in South Florida; Hillsborough, which is home to Tampa, on the Gulf Coast; and Orange, in central Florida, where Orlando is located.

A good number of the international migrants in Florida have cases pending in immigration court, according to figures tracked by Syracuse Universitys Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse. Miami and Orlando had two of the largest dockets last year for cases of migrants placed in removal proceedings, with the courts in Florida seeing concentrations of Cubans and Venezuelans.

The increases in Florida also reflect some pent-up international migration that was postponed at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, said Stefan Rayer, director of the Population Program at the University of Florida's Bureau of Economic and Business Research.

Some international migrants who arrived in 20222023 probably had planned to move earlier but werent able to because of pandemic-related travel restrictions, Rayer said in an email.

Detailed figures about where people came from in 2023 haven't been published yet by the Census Bureau. But according to public use microdata from the 2022 American Community Survey, the greatest share of international migrants to Florida came from Canada, Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil and Colombia, respectively.

CALIFORNIA

An influx of more than 40,300 people to Californias Los Angeles County  the third-largest international migration in the U.S. in 2023  helped to mitigate the departure of 119,000 local residents from the nation's most populous county, Census Bureau figures show.

Large numbers of international migrants also flocked to the counties that are home to San Diego, Anaheim, San Jose and Oakland, again as local residents headed for the exits because of housing costs, a rising jobless rate or other reasons.

Similar inflows of international migrants and outflows of local residents took place in the counties that include the New York City boroughs of the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens.

The largest numbers of international migrants to California came from Mexico, China and India, respectively, according to microdata from the 2022 American Community Survey.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SUBURBS

The District of Columbia and its surrounding counties illustrate the lure of urban cores for international migrants. Two urbanized Maryland counties just outside the district, Montgomery and Prince George's, had among the largest numbers of international migrants in the U.S. last year. The district's overall population also grew year over year.

I think this means that these areas are becoming a bigger draw as some employment and other activities are returning to the center cities, William Frey, a demographer at The Brookings Institution, said in an email. While many have predicted a doomsday scenario for urban centers after the pandemic, the rise in immigration may very well be a magic bullet for their recovery.

Suburban counties farther from the capital, including Prince William and Fairfax counties in Virginia, also experienced an influx of international migrants, but smaller than in the previous year.

UTAH AND IDAHO

Among counties with more than a half-million residents, Ada County, Idaho, which is home to Boise, and two Utah counties that are home to the city of Provo and Salt Lake City, respectively, had among the greatest growth rates of international migration in 2023.

Utah and Idaho both have been among the fastest-growing states in the nation during the past decade. Meanwhile, Provo, Salt Lake City and Boise have become regional tech hubs, siphoning off white-collar workers and companies from more expensive tech centers in San Francisco and Seattle.

Yet the rise in international migration here may have another explanation.

Mallory Bateman, director of demographic research at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, partly attributes the rise in both states to the return of Latter-day Saints missionaries from abroad. They are counted as international migrants even if theyre U.S. citizens.

During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the missionaries were called back stateside and didnt get sent back out to their international posts until 2021. Last year would have marked the end of two-year missionary stints for many of them.

Its one of those special Utah characteristics thats not really shared anywhere else, Bateman said.

In Idaho, the increase also could be partially attributed to the return of military personnel and other U.S. residents who were stuck abroad because of pandemic-related travel restrictions, said Jaap Vos, a University of Idaho professor of planning and natural resources.

NEVADA

Just as international migration soared in other states, it dropped precipitously in Nevada. Clark County, home to the tourist-magnet city of Las Vegas, saw a decrease of 58%, the biggest among counties where a half-million or more people live, Census Bureau figures show.

The drop from more than 8,800 international migrants in 2022 to under 3,700 people in 2023 may have been driven largely by economics; Nevada had the highest unemployment rate  5.1%  of any state last year. Other urban Western counties, including those that are home to Seattle and Portland, Oregon, had smaller increases in international migration than in 2022.

It fluctuates every year, which doesnt surprise me, said Stephen Miller, director of research at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas' Center for Business and Economic Research.

Nevadas biggest source of international migrants came from Mexico, the Philippines and China, respectively, according to microdata from the 2022 American Community Survey.

___

Follow Mike Schneider on X, formerly Twitter: @MikeSchneiderAP.
Four arrested, two bodies found: What we know about two Kansas women missing in Oklahoma

Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, were last seen in the Texas County area in early April. Investigators are still searching for the moms, who initially ventured out on the road to pick up their children.

Investigators are still seeking information about two missing women last seen in a rural part of the Oklahoma panhandle, but several advancements in the case were made over the weekend.

Two bodies were recovered in rural Texas County, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation announced Sunday night on its Facebook page. The post said the remains will be taken to the Medical Examiner's Office to determine identification, and cause and manner of death. The investigation is ongoing, the OSBI added.

The day before, four arrests were made in relation to the case.

Here's everything we know so far about the investigation into their disappearance.

Affidavit: Details emerge in bitter custody battle between Kansas woman, 'God's Misfits'

'No' chance missing women are still alive, murder charges filed, OSBI says

Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation spokesperson Hunter McKee said there is no hope that Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, are still alive. McKee could not say what condition the bodies were in or provide any information about the property they were found on.

"There are two people who are dead and four people who committed an absolutely brutal crime," McKee said Monday in a joint press conference held by the OSBI, FBI, Texas County Sheriff's office and Texas County District Attorney's office.

Four arrested after two women go missing in Oklahoma

The OSBI identified the four people arrested in connection to the case Monday.

The four arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping and one count of conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree are:

Tad Bert Cullum, 43

Tifany Machel Adams, 54

Cole Earl Twombly, 50

Cora Twombly, 44

All four individuals arrested were booked into the Texas County jail Saturday, each for two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping and one count of conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said.

One arrest was made in Texas County, and three were made in Cimarron County, OSBI spokesperson Hunter McKee said.

Who are the two women missing in Oklahoma?

Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, were first reported missing in the Oklahoma panhandle March 30. The two women were on their way to a supervised visit with Butler's children, but never made it to the pickup location or to a birthday party Butler's family expected her at.

Their car was found abandoned that day in rural Texas County, Oklahoma  near Highway 95 and Road L, just south of the Oklahoma/Kansas border, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation told USA Today. OSBI announced it suspected foul play in early April, based on evidence from the vehicle.

On Monday, the two women were confirmed dead.

GoFundMe fundraisers started for Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley

A fundraiser was started last week on GoFundMe for Butler's family by her cousin, Monica Barrera, according to the fundraiser's description.

A fundraiser on GoFundMe was started for the family of Veronica Butler, 27.

"Please consider donating to this precious family in hope that we can help lessen some of the burden," Barrera wrote.

According to court documents, Butler was embroiled in a custody battle with Tifany Machel Adams, 54, who is the grandmother of Butler's two young children and one of four arrested in connection to her death.

Butler was granted court-ordered visitation every Saturday, and because her usual supervisor was unavailable on the day of her disappearance, another supervisor, Kelley, went with Butler to pick up her kids from Adams.

A GoFundMe fundraiser was also started last week for Kelley's family, and the description states that she was a pastor's wife and mother of four children.

"As the undesirable outcome was announced that Jillian's life has been taken, we are asking for help by making any donation to lessen the financial burden brought forth on the Kelley family," the fundraiser description reads.

A fundraiser on GoFundMe was started for the family of Jilian Kelley, 39.

Kelley's husband had recently agreed to serve as pastor at a church in Nebraska, starting in June, reports the Christian Post. Their current congregation in Hugoton and new church in Nebraska posted calls for prayer and support on social media.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Two Kansas women missing in Oklahoma: What we know about bodies found, arrests
By Padraic Halpin

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland is close to formally recognising a Palestinian state and would like to do so in concert with Spain and other like-minded countries, new prime minister Simon Harris said on Friday after meeting his Spanish counterpart.

Spain and Ireland, long champions of Palestinian rights, last month announced alongside Malta and Slovenia that they would jointly work toward the recognition of a Palestinian state. The efforts come as a mounting death toll in Gaza from Israel's offensive to rout out Hamas prompts calls globally for a ceasefire and lasting solution for peace in the region.

"Let me this evening say our assessment is that that point is coming much closer and we would like to move together in doing so," Harris said after meeting Sanchez, the first premier to visit Dublin since Harris became prime minister this week.

"When we move forward, we would like to do so with as many others as possible to lend weight to the decision and to send the strongest message. The people of Israel deserve a secure and peaceful future, so do the people of Palestine. Equal sovereignty, equal respect."

Israel told the four EU countries that committed to moving towards Palestinian recognition that their initiative would amount to a "prize for terrorism" that would reduce the chances of a negotiated resolution to the generations-old conflict.

The meeting with Harris was part of a number Sanchez planned this week with EU counterparts to try to garner support for the recognition of a Palestinian state.

Sanchez said following a meeting in Oslo with his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store earlier on Friday that there were "clear signs" in Europe that countries in the region were prepared to recognise a Palestinian state.

Sanchez has previously said he expects Madrid to extend recognition to Palestinians by July.

Harris said Dublin would continue discussions with other like-minded countries in Europe and beyond, including at next week's meeting of EU leaders.

Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said earlier this week that he was preparing to bring a formal proposal to government on the recognition of a Palestinian state.

Since 1988, 139 out of 193 United Nations member states have recognised Palestinian statehood.

(Reporting by Padraic Halpin, additional reporting by David Latona in Madrid, editing by Deepa Babington)
By James Mackenzie

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel on Friday braced for an attack by Iran or its proxies as warnings grew of retaliation for the killing last week of a senior officer in Iran's embassy in Damascus.

Countries including India, France, Poland and Russia have warned their citizens against travel to the region, already on edge over the war in Gaza, now in its seventh month. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the threat from Iran was real and viable.

The Israeli military said it had not issued fresh instructions to civilians, but asked people to remain vigilant.

"Over the past day, the military has conducted a situational assessment and approved plans for a range of scenarios following reports and statements on an Iranian attack," chief military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement on Friday.

Israel's foreign ministry did not comment on reports that some Israeli diplomatic missions had been partially evacuated and security stepped up.

"The revenge will come," wrote Israel's largest daily newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth. "For the moment, the premise is that it will be very soon, in the next few days."

Israel did not claim responsibility for the airstrike on April 1 that killed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' overseas Quds Force, and six other officers as they attended a meeting in the Damascus embassy compound.

But Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said Israel "must be punished and shall be" for an operation he said was equivalent to an attack on Iranian soil.

"It's going to be very difficult for Iran not to retaliate," said Raz Zimmt, senior researcher at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies.

"I still believe that Iran doesn't want to engage in full-scale, direct military confrontation against Israel, and certainly not with the United States. But it has to do something."

IRAN WANTS TO AVOID ESCALATION, SOURCES SAY

On Friday, both Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and army chief General Herzi Halevi had meetings with the visiting head of U.S. Central Command General Michael Kurilla to coordinate a possible response.

Iranian sources and diplomats from the United States, Israel's main protector, say Tehran has signalled to Washington that it wishes to avoid escalation and will not act hastily.

But the risk remains that any response might spin out of control.

Since Iran viewed the embassy attack as equivalent to an attack on its own territory, Zimmt said a direct attack on Israeli soil by Iran itself rather than a proxy such as Hezbollah in Lebanon was a real possibility.

Iran has missiles capable of hitting Israel directly and in recent weeks, Israel has bolstered its air defences, which have intercepted thousands of rockets fired by Hamas from Gaza and by Hezbollah from Lebanon.

The Israeli military has called back reservists in preparation for any escalation along its northern border, where it exchanges fire almost daily with Hezbollah.

Late on Friday, it said around 40 rocket launches were identified crossing into Israel from Lebanon, most of which were intercepted with the remainder falling on open ground without causing any injuries.

The army has pulled most of its troops and armoured vehicles out of Gaza. Ministers said the move was in advance of a long-promised assault on the city of Rafah, where thousands of Hamas fighters are believed to be dug in beside more than a million Palestinians displaced from other parts of Gaza.

In Israel, although there have been no formal security instructions, some parents said their children had been told to take books home for the Passover school holidays in preparation for possible lesson disruptions.

(Additional reporting by Henriette Chacar; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Ros Russell)
MOSCOW, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday summoned French Ambassador to Russia Pierre Levy over comments by French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Stephane Sejourne.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Sejourne said that France was not interested in dialogue with Russia as statements from Russian officials allegedly contained false information.

Such remarks are unacceptable and detached from reality, the ministry said in a statement.

Russia regards these remarks as a conscious and thoughtful action of the French side, aimed at undermining the very possibility of any dialogue between the two countries, the statement said. 
Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was killed while travelling in his car in the West Bank city of Tubas, local media said - Raneen Sawafta/REUTERS

Israeli forces shot dead the son of a Hamas West Bank leader in an early-morning raid on Friday, according to reports.

Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh was killed while travelling in his car in the West Bank city of Tubas where he is based, local media said.

Another man travelling in the car was also killed, according to reports.

The Israeli army described Daraghmeh as the head of Hamas infrastructure in the Tubas area of the Jordan Valley.

It said he was killed during an exchange of fire with security forces, with a number of weapons and military-style equipment, including automatic rifles were found in his vehicle.

A bullet-ridden car, allegedly belonging to Muhammad Rasoul Daraghmeh - Nedal Eshtayah/Anadolu/Getty Images

Hamas confirmed Daraghmehs death and his membership of its armed Al Qassam Brigades.

Images of the incident posted by news agencies show a bullet-ridden car, allegedly belonging to Daraghmeh.

He was the son of Omar Daraghmeh, a West Bank Hamas leader who died in an Israeli prison after being detained during round-ups of figures from the militant group in the wake of the Oct 7 attack, which killed about 1,200 Israelis.

Weapons were said to have been found in Daraghmeh's car - Nedal Eshtayah/Anadolu/Getty

The area around Tubas in the northern West Bank is a stronghold of Palestinian armed groups and the frequent target of Israeli military incursions.

The incident was the latest confrontation in the West Bank between Israeli security forces and Palestinians, including both armed militants and unarmed protesters, since the start of the war in Gaza last October.

Hundreds of Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces, most of them armed fighters but some of them unarmed civilians, and thousands have been arrested or detained. In the same period more than a dozen Israelis have been killed by Palestinian attackers.

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As Israel has continued its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, its restrictions on journalists' access to the region have drawn scrutiny. New data released Thursday suggests Israel's tactics are fueling an "information war" with perverse incentives for hate-mongers and conspiracy theorists.

The Committee to Protect Journalists' preliminary estimate counts 95 journalists and media workers who have been killed in Gaza since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel, and the vast majority of those journalists are Palestinian. At the same time, Israel's decision to prevent international journalists from entering has enraged activists and the Foreign Press Association.

The Israeli Supreme Court in January upheld a ban on journalists entering Gaza that was imposed after the Hamas attack, the Times of Israel reported; the few foreign journalists allowed in have been under military escort and subject to censorship. And earlier this month, the Knesset passed a law that gave the government the ability to close foreign-owned media outlets like the Qatar-based Al Jazeera.

Israels choice raises questions about what Israel does not want international journalists to see, the Foreign Press Association said in a press release Monday.

That same day, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Israels refusal to allow international journalists into Gaza has created an information war thats added trauma to the already harrowing situation in the region. Denying international journalists entry in to Gaza is allowing disinformation and false narratives to flourish, he said.

The White House co-signed that sentiment Thursday:

"We've made clear to the government of Israel they should let more journalists in" to Gaza, says @StateDeptSpox Matt Miller, saying it would be a benefit to see what's going on inside.  Alex Marquardt (@MarquardtA) April 11, 2024

Israels war with Hamas  which was launched after the Oct. 7 terror attack but which has evolved into a full-scale obliteration of Gaza  has also become a vacuum into which conspiracy theorists and propagandists can pump disinformation and hate. Its a point I discussed with Joy Reid and my colleague Brandy Zadrozny on "The ReidOut" last fall.

And new data released Thursday by the watchdog Center for Countering Digital Hate shows how profiteers have made bank spreading dubious and bigoted claims about the ongoing conflict. The report is "Hate Pays: How X accounts are exploiting the Israel-Gaza conflict to grow and profit," and you can check it out here.

Accounts posting anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim content about the Israel-Gaza conflict are accumulating new followers on X at a significantly higher rate since October 7, said the center's press release, exploiting policy changes enacted under Elon Musks ownership of the platform.

The report highlights the crisis that is flourishing because of Israels refusal to allow journalists into Gaza. In lieu of reporters who can provide accurate details about what's happening in the region, people are turning to unreliable sources who use that opportunity to foment hate and sow division.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Senior Israeli leaders held a meeting Friday amid growing concerns of a possible, direct attack from Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, U.S. CENTCOM Commander, General Michael Erik Kurilla and the Israeli security echelon at the Hatzor Israeli Air Force base, where they discussed the possible attack.

The meeting came just days after Irans supreme leader threatened to launch a direct assault on the U.S. ally and as Iran and Israel have traded verbal barbs this week over a possible attack and subsequent retaliation.

"We discussed the close cooperation between the United States and Israel, between our defense establishments and our miliaries," Gallant said after the meeting. "Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true, they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties. We stand shoulder to shoulder."

IRANS LEADER SAYS 4 THREATENING WORDS TO ISRAEL, BLASTS THE US AND WEST FOR 'DISASTER' IN GAZA

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of Iran

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief of the General Staff MG. Amir Baram, Director of the Policy Bureau Dror Shalom, and Military Secretary BG. Guy Markizano.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"I am certain that the world sees the true face of Iran, the terrorist body that incites terror attacks across the Middle East, and funds Hamas, Hezbollah, and additional forces [proxies], and now also threatens the State of Israel," Gallant also said after the meeting.

He added: "We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond."

The current feud stems from an attack on Irans consulate in Syria earlier this month, which left 12 people dead, including seven Iranian Revolutionary Guard members. Israel has not acknowledged any involvement in the airstrike.

Last week, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi vowed revenge against Israel following the destruction of the Damascus consulate, calling the attack a "cowardly crime" and said it would "not go unanswered."

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian on Sunday conveyed to the U.S., through intermediary Oman, that Iran would take action. He said his country would seek to do so in a way that would avoid major escalation and not act hastily, Reuters reported.

On Wednesday, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a statement threatening to take action against Israel.

The threat came during a prayer ceremony celebrating the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. During his remarks, he promised to hold Israel accountable for the airstrike that demolished Irans consulate in Syria on April 1.

Iranian Leader Ali Khamenei attends a program at the Imam Khomeini Hosseini in Tehran, Iran.

The strike killed two Iranian generals and five officers, according to Iranian officials.

"When they attacked our consulate area, it was like they attacked our territory," Khamenei said. "The evil regime must be punished, and it will be punished."

NETANYAHU NOT CONSULTED ON STRIKE THAT KILLED HAMAS LEADER'S 3 SONS, ISRAELI MEDIA REPORTS

Khamenei did not elaborate on the way Iran would retaliate.

Immediately after the remark, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz posted a tweet vowing that Israel would respond if Iran attacks.

"If Iran attacks from its own territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran," Katz said on X.

Such an attack would be seen as an escalation of Israels current war with Hamas, an Iranian ally that governs in Gaza, in which over 30,000 people have died. Israel also maintains a tense feud with Hezbollah, another Iranian facilitator that regularly attacks Israel from Lebanon.

ISRAEL VOWS TO STRIKE BACK AFTER WARNINGS OF IRANIAN ATTACK, SAYS ENEMIES WILL BE MET WITH A STRONG DEFENSE

On Thursday, the U.S. State Department restricted travel for government employees and their family members outside of major cities in Israel as concerns of an attack remain high.

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has posted a message on its website saying "Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva areas until further notice."

U.S. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller speaks to reporters during the Department Press Briefing at the Department of State.

It added that "the security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events."

When asked about the new U.S. travel advisory on Thursday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days."

"Israel's in a very tough neighborhood and have been monitoring the security situation. You saw us slightly adjust our travel warnings at the beginning of this conflict. And we conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground," he added.

Iran does not formally recognize Israel and regularly supports anti-Israeli terror and militant groups.

Fox News Peter Aitken, Greg Norman and The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: Israeli PM, military leaders hold emergency meeting amid possible direct Iranian attack
TEL AVIV, IsraelEarly Sunday morning, Israel withdrew most of its remaining ground troops from the Gaza Strip, leaving behind just one brigade to secure the corridor dividing the enclaves north and south. Israeli officials say the operation in Gaza is far from over, but Israel may soon be faced with another, potentially more lethal war against Iran and its proxies.

Israelis across the country began stockpiling water, nonperishable food, spare batteries, and transistor radios this week amid renewed threats by Iran to respond to the strike on its military personnel in Damascus, Syria, on April 1. The attackfor which the U.S., Iran, and Syria have said Israel was responsiblekilled several top Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members, including Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a key figure in fueling Hezbollahs ongoing attacks on Israel from Lebanon.

The defeat of the Zionist regime in Gaza will continue and this regime will be close to decline and dissolution, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a speech last week. Desperate efforts like the one they committed in Syria will not save them from defeat. Of course, they will also be slapped for that action.

That slap looks imminent, U.S. and Israeli intelligence agencies have reportedly assessed. But where it will come fromand what form it might takeremains unclear. Tehran typically uses its network of well-armed proxy groups to launch attacks without provoking a direct response from their victims, but this time may be different.

The Israeli attack in Damascus targeted what Iran publicly declared to be a consular site. Though Israeli officials claimed the strike targeted a military facility used by the IRGCa U.S.-designated terrorist groupthe Islamic Republics allegation that Israel targeted a diplomatic mission, considered Iranian territory, may trigger a more direct response, which Israel has privately and publicly cautioned against. If Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will react and attack in Iran, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz tweeted Wednesday, tagging Khamenei in the post.

President Joe Biden likewise warned Tehran to avoid escalation or risk U.S. involvement.

Our commitment to Israels security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again: ironclad, Biden said during a press conference on Wednesday. Were going to do all we can to protect Israels security. Gen. Erik Kurilla, commander of the U.S. Central Command, arrived in Israel Thursday to help coordinate the countrys defense against the threat of an air barrage from Iran or one of its proxies.

Israel has already begun taking its own steps to thwart such an attack, which could include the coordinated use of drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. Last week, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) called up air defense reserves soldiers and canceled leave for troops in combat units. Residents of central Israel woke up last Thursday to find their phones GPS apps telling them they were actually in Beirut, Lebanon, as the IDF disrupted GPS signals to prevent drones and cruise missiles from reaching their targets. The military had already undertaken the measures in northern Israel, including the countrys third-largest city of Haifa, for months amid the omnipresent threat of large-scale bombardment by Hezbollah.

The Iranian-backed terrorist group in Lebanon currently boasts an arsenal of some 150,000 rockets and long-range missiles capable of striking deep into Israeli territory. It has already launched cross-border attacks on military and civilian targets in northern Israel on a near-daily basis since October 7, forcing tens of thousands of residents from their homes with no end date in sight. But recent days have brought renewed fears of an all-out war with Hezbollah, Irans largest and most powerful proxy, which could result in major damage to Israeli critical infrastructure and civilian centers countrywide.

On Sunday, Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav urged residents of the city to install a landline telephone in their bomb shelters and take other precautions, adding that he [doesnt] sleep at night because of the security situation. The IDF, however, hasnt changed its guidance on what supplies civilians should have on-hand for emergencies, Maj. Nir Dinar, a military spokesman, told The Dispatch. He added that a recommendation that public shelters be prepared for aerial attacks has been in place since the beginning of the war.

But as it urges civilians to remain calm, the military has begun to prepare for an escalation in the north. IDF Northern Command announced last week that it had finished preparations to shift from defensive to offensive operations, including by stocking warehouses to enable the immediate mobilization of reserve forces. On Monday, the Israeli navy and air force conducted joint exercises in the northwest, near Haifa, in preparation for the possibility of an attack from Lebanon.

Israel has also increasingly gone on the attack. An Israeli strike in the southern Lebanese village of As-Sultaniyah on Monday killed a commander in Hezbollahs Radwan Forcesan elite unit trained to infiltrate Israeli territoryand targeted attacks on the groups military depots, command centers, and launch sites continue. Israel likely also sought to disrupt Hezbollahs operations through the assassination of Zahedi in Damascus. The slain IRGC commander, serving as Irans key liaison to Hezbollah, led efforts to funnel weapons to the proxy group by way of Syria.

Zahedi also fostered a close relationship with Hezbollahs leader, Hassan Nasrallah, who on Sunday vowed that Iran would avenge Zahedis death. The Damascus attack marked a turning point, Nasrallah said in a speech. Be certain, be sure, that the Iranian response to the targeting of the consulate in Damascus is definitely coming against Israel. The Hezbollah leader went on to condemn the United States, which he deemed responsible for the crimes and wars in the region.

And indeed, American officials fear Irans threats of escalation could result in the targeting of U.S. forces in the region after a period of relative calm. A series of attacks by Iranian-backed militias on American troops abated in February, after the U.S. launched airstrikes against the groups in retaliation for the killing of three soldiers in Jordan. Biden administration officials have tried to distance themselves from the Damascus attack in an apparent effort to prevent a repeat incident.

I dont have anything more to say about the strike in Damascus, except that we werent involved in any way whatsoever, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters Monday. And I need to just leave it at that. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller likewise said Monday that the U.S. made clear that we dont want to see Israel escalate this conflict in any way.

The administrations push for Israel to show restraint in the face of Iranian aggression, together with its recent critiques of the countrys conduct in its war against Hamas, has some Israelis feeling more alone than ever. Biden on Tuesday said Israel should just call for a ceasefire for six to eight weeks, without mentioning the hostages still held by the terror group. Critics argued the remarks undermined Israels hand in ongoing negotiations to free the captives in exchange for a ceasefire, and indeed, Hamas has largely rejected the latest U.S.-backed proposal in the days since.

But Israels isolation may be greater in appearance than in substance. The U.S., for instance, hasnt outright opposed the eventual continuation of the war in Gaza, saying the IDFs partial withdrawal would allow soldiers to rest and refit.

I think there is still consensus on the need to defeat and depose Hamas, Assaf Orion, a brigadier general in the IDF reserves and defense strategist at the Tel Aviv-based Institute for National Security Studies and the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, told The Dispatch. This includes through the degradation and dismantling of the remaining units, which are now in Rafah.  Theres less disagreement on the ends and more disagreement on the means, he added, referring to the U.S. demand to see a credible plan to protect the Gazan civilians sheltering in the southernmost city.

On Irans threatened reprisal, too, Washington and Jerusalem may be more aligned than they appear at first glance. Bidens stated ironclad commitment to Israels security and Gen. Kurillas arrival to Israel are likely intended to send a message to Tehran: A direct attack could incur a joint response. This scenario may be something the Islamic Republic is unwilling to risk, despite its continued grandstanding.

If the Iranians choose to go against national infrastructure or Israels population, Orion said, it might take the conflict to the next level, which I dont think theyre interested in.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
J.D. Vance Says 'It Would Be A Great Honor' To Be Trump's VP Pick

Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) on Thursday addressed rumors that he is on former President Donald Trumps vice presidential shortlist nearly six months out of Novembers election.

In an interview with Fox News, Vance said he has never discussed the prospect with Trump, the Republican Partys presumptive nominee in the 2024 presidential race, but appeared open to accepting the position if it were offered to him.

My simple answer is I wanna help him however I can, Vance told Fox News Laura Ingraham. If he asks me, of course I would think seriously about it. It would be a great honor. I also am happy to support the agenda in the United States Senate.

Overall, Vance added, his main priority at the moment is continuing to serve Ohioans.

Whether its supporting Trumps agenda in the Senate or serving in some other role, we have got to bring good manufacturing jobs, good prosperity to the people of Ohio and the American heartland, Vance said.

In her questioning, Ingraham cited a report published by The Hill on Wednesday stating: Vances background and consistent support for Trump since taking his Senate seat could position him as an ideal choice for the former president as he looks for a loyal running mate.

Vances campaign for the Senate in 2022 was stagnant until Trump chose to endorse him, propelling him to the GOP nomination and his eventual win in the race against then-Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio).

Prior to running for the U.S. Senate, Vance was a fierce Trump critic. The Hillbilly Elegy author sought to explain his change of heart in an interview with New York Magazine in April 2022.

I think there are so many reasons I was wrong about Trump, but Im happy that I was wrong about Trump, Vance said.

Four sources told The Washington Post that Trump seemed fixated on Vance in some discussions about whom he should select as his running mate.

Still, at least 12 people are in the play to be his VP pick and the list keeps growing, a Trump adviser told the Post. Some of the other names that have been floated include Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and Gov. Kristi Noem (R-S.D.).

Related...
Across the sprawling city of Los Angeles  within feet of childrens bedrooms, playgrounds, office buildings, and places of worship  theres an oil well, exuding toxins that put nearby residents at risk of asthma attacks, reproductive issues, and multiple types of cancer. The evidence stacked against Big Oil is alarming, and after more than 130 years since drilling began in the town of flowers and sunshine, the Los Angeles city council unanimously voted to phase out drilling in January 2021.

In response, oil and gas companies collected enough signatures for a referendum to challenge the legislation. Now, its up to voters in November to decide whether or not the protective ban makes it past the finish line. As Big Oil continues to throw millions of dollars at propaganda to sway public opinion, a clear-eyed Jane Fonda and her allies are fighting back.

If you cant change the people  change the people, vote them out, replace them with climate champions. Thats my call for this year, Fonda told Rolling Stone, days before a benefit to raise money for Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California, a grassroots initiative working to protect the environmental safety ban and opposing the referendum.

The fossil fuel industry is a wounded beast right now, she continued. Oil is running out without anybody doing anything. Fossil fuels are on their way out, and so they are poking holes all over the place as fast as they can to try to get the last drop of gas or oil, as quickly as they can to ratchet up their profits. Its really dangerous right now, and we have to stop them. She pressed on: This isnt just happening in California. Ive seen it all over the country, right in the middle of Denver, Commerce City, theyre surrounded by pollution from this industry. Nobody helps them. We have to stop them.

Fonda has been an activist for over 50 years, beginning with the anti-war movement, and rallied some of the biggest names in Hollywood and politics to an art auction at Gagosians Bevery Hills outpost Tuesday to do just that. Mayor Karen Bass, Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann, Maria Shriver, Derek Blasberg, Mary Steenburgen, Katherine Ross, and more showed up in support of the cause. Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, who performed an intimate set for the audience, were also in attendance.

In a tented room, art by Frank Gehry, Ed Ruscha, Nathaniel Mary Quinn, Charles Gaines, Nan Goldin, Alex Israel, Marilyn Minter, Christina Quarles, Kenny Scharf, and Joey Terrill were on display.

The one principle I work around is justice. Our system, our nation, our planet  it should give everyone a fair shot at a decent life. Anything that keeps that from happening, I want to push back against, said artist Shepard Fairey, when discussing his motivation to join Fondas rallying call. Fairey, who founded Obey, will be contributing art for auction in the coming months, and has created iconic works for the Obama campaign, Black Lives Matter, and the Womens March.

By the end of night, the ticketed event had mustered more than $10 million  and to date, $17 million.

What you see here tonight is us coming together to stand up against a terrible environmental injustice and an attack on democracy by Big Oil, said Fonda, speaking to the crowd. Theyre trying to do it in other states and we have to show that they can be beat. We in California have to defeat them.

As a reminder of what was at stake, Fonda invited 22-year-old activist Nalleli Cobo, a cancer survivor who grew up next to an oil well, to share her story. I am living proof of the intersectionality of climate and health, began Cobo. I was diagnosed with stage two reproductive cancer a month after I turned 18, and I was forced to choose between my reproductive system and my life. Im here, but I fight every day so that decision ends with me.

I believe everyone has the right to breathe clean air despite their age, gender, ethnicity, social economic status, religion or zip code, she continued. Clean air is a basic human right.

As people gathered their coats and purses to leave, filtering back out onto the streets of Los Angeles, Fondas advice from our earlier conversation echoed: If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together  There are enough of us that if we band together, and we do it together, we can win.

Additional works of art will be auctioned in Christies Post-War and Contemporary Art Day Sale in May. Gagosians Beverly Hills gallery will present a second set of works in a summer exhibition.

More from Rolling Stone

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TOKYO (Reuters) - The number of senior citizens living alone in Japan will likely jump 47% by 2050, a government-affiliated research institute said on Friday, underscoring the heavy burden the country's demographic change will exert on its social security system.

The number of single-person households is expected to reach 23.3 million in 2050, accounting for 44.3% of total households. That would be higher than 38% in 2020, the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research said.

Of those one-person households, senior citizens aged 65 or older will likely represent 46.5% in 2050, compared with 34.9% in 2020, the institute's estimates showed.

Japan, one of the world's most advanced ageing societies, has seen a constant decline in the number of marriages in recent decades as a stagnant economy hits the young generations the hardest. The COVID-19 pandemic also came in the way of people meeting their potential partners and tying the knot.

Nearly one-third of Tokyo men in their 50s have never been married, while data gathered by Recruit Holdings shows 46% of men and 30% of women in their 20s in Japan have never dated.

(Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) -The Johnson City Public Schools Foundation (JCPSF) hosted Spell-A-Bration at Science Hill High School as its fourth annual fundraising event on Thursday.

JCPSF hosts an annual fundraiser for special projects that the regular school budget does not cover.

Spell-A-Bration was a spelling bee for adults in which teams of four worked together to spell words on a whiteboard. The teams competed under creative team names while dressed in costumes.

Photo: WJHL

Photo: WJHL

Photo: WJHL

Photo: WJHL

Nearly 4,000 students head to ETSU to learn about prospective careers

News Channel 11 spoke with Tembra Aldridge, president of JCPSF:

Its just made up of businesses, schools, just all kinds of people throughout the community. And we have a blast. They come up with creative names, and they dress accordingly, Aldridge said. And then, of course, they decorate their tables. So we give prizes to the winners, as well as the best table decorations and the best costumes.

This year, the event funded ViewSonic smart TVs, which the foundation will distribute throughout the Johnson City school system.

As a teacher, my ViewSonic smart TV has revolutionized my classroom, offering an array of benefits for both me and my students, said digital media teacher and JCS teacher leader Stephanie Elliott in a release in February.

Aldridge told News Channel 11 that the annual fundraising events generate the most profit.

All Spell-A-Bration registration fees will go towards future JCPSF projects. In the past, JCPSF has funded Indian Trail and Liberty Bell Middle Schools digital communications lab, the Science Hill A-V studio and a STEAM bus.

For more information, visit JCPS FoundationJohnson City Schools (jcschools.org).

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
JD Vance has never spoken to Trump about VP possibilities despite rumors

JD Vance has never spoken to Trump about VP possibilities despite rumors

Sen. J.D. Vance told Fox News that  despite all rumors  he has not talked to former President Donald Trump about the possibility of being his vice president.

Fox News's Laura Ingraham asked the Ohio senator for his reaction to unconfirmed reports that he is among Trump's top considerations for his running mate.

"Ive never actually spoken to the president about VP speculation," Vance told Ingraham. "My simple answer is, I wanna help him however I can."

TRUMP COULD HAUL IN MASSIVE AMOUNT OF CAMPAIGN CASH DURING ATLANTA, ORLANDO FUNDRAISING SWING: WHAT TO KNOW

Former U.S. President Donald Trump and JD Vance greet supporters during the rally at the Dayton International Airport in Vandalia, Ohio.

Earlier this year, the Ohio senator was reportedly included on several drafts of Trump's shortlist.

Donald Trump Jr. mentioned Vance by name to the New York Post last month while discussing individuals he was personally pushing his father to choose.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"If he asks me, of course, I would think seriously about it," he continued. "It would be a great honor."

TRUMP SAYS ARIZONA PRO-LIFE LAW WENT 'TOO FAR' AS BIDEN CAMP CLAIMS POLICY U-TURN

Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) speaks during a Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee hearing titled "Improving Rail Safety in Response to the East Palestine Derailment" in Washington DC.

Vance said that while he would enjoy the honor of serving as vice-president, he is happy to continue serving in the Senate.

"Im also happy to support the agenda in the United States Senate, and regardless, Laura, you have to remember, my job is to serve the people of Ohio," Vance said.

He added, "Whether its supporting Trumps agenda in the Senate, or serving in some other role."

Former President Donald Trump arrives at Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Georgia.

Trump's eventual pick for running mate has inspired widespread speculation and theorizing from media and political insiders.

In February, Trump confirmed the following individuals were among the candidates on his shortlist: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, multimillionaire biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, Rep. Byron Donalds of Florida, and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, a Democrat turned independent.

DeSantis said he has no interest in the position, while others have enthusiastically welcomed the consideration.

Fox News Digital reached out to Trump's campaign for comment but did not receive a response.





Original article source: JD Vance has never spoken to Trump about VP possibilities despite rumors
MANILA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Tonga signed a 10-million-U.S.-dollar policy-based grant agreement on Friday to help expedite economic recovery from disasters caused by natural hazards and health emergencies.

According to the ADB, the program will help the government implement reforms to mitigate fragilities intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 volcanic eruption at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai, and subsequent tsunami waves.

Tonga is among the most disaster-prone countries globally. Large-scale disasters such as tropical cyclones, as well as the eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano in 2022, affected up to 80 percent of the population and badly hit the fragile economy of Tonga.

The Public Financial Management Bill supported under the program includes putting a numerical limit on new debt and codifying the need for debt management and fiscal strategies.

The program will ensure support for the continued implementation of the Electronic Sales Register System, which will transmit point-of-sale transaction data to improve the assessment of tax liability and risk, while partially automating value-added tax returns.

Through the program, the ADB also promises to further support the country's disaster recovery by creating a network of accredited, vetted suppliers and transporters for streamlined exports, significant for perishable exports and supporting recovery following disasters. 
Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) said former President Trump hasnt mentioned being his running mate in the presidential election, despite speculation in recent months that hes one of the contenders.

Ive never actually spoken to the president about VP speculation. My simple answer is, I wanna help him however I can, Vance told Fox Newss Laura Ingraham on Thursday. If he asks me, of course, I would think seriously about it. It would be a great honor.

Im also happy to support the agenda in the United States Senate, and regardless, Laura, you have to remember, my job is to serve the people of Ohio. Whether its supporting Trumps agenda in the Senate, or serving in some other role, he continued.

Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, has yet to announce his vice president, but Vance has solidified his status as one of Trumps top supporters and has reportedly been included in the former presidents short list for running mates.

The Ohio senator said Thursday that regardless of receiving the nomination, he would push for more manufacturing jobs and good prosperity to the people of Ohio and the heartland.

Vance, who grew up in a middle-class community in Ohio that once had many manufacturing jobs, became a venture capitalist working at a firm and gained prominence with his bestselling book Hillbilly Elegy.

During the 2016 election, Vance said he was never Trump but has since become one of the former presidents strongest supporters after taking office last year.

For 40 years, we had a bipartisan consensus to ship jobs overseas, to bring unchecked migration. Trumps stopped that, he said. And the real question for the Republican Party is whether we follow that lead and double down on that winning agenda, or do we try to go back to the old ways?

Unfortunately, Laura, as you know as well as I do, there is a critical component of the old guard, the Republican Party, that wants to go back to the old ways  more immigration, more war, less than wages for American workers, Vance continued. Thank God Trump is there to push back against it.

Several other people are rumored to be on Trumps short list, including Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.).

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
New Jersey lawmakers trying to find solution to school budget cuts

New Jersey lawmakers trying to find solution to school budget cuts

TRENTON, N.J.  Some New Jersey school districts staring at budget cuts are fighting back.

This year we are going to be cutting $6.2 million worth of humans, said Scott Feder, superintendent of South Brunswick School System.

Park Slope then and now: 15-cent burgers, $12,000 homes

Were standing to lose 20 percent of our state aid that we received last year, said Carol Birnbohm, superintendent of Lenape Regional High School District.

While more than 400 school districts will see increases in funding this year, around 140 are having funding taken away, including South Brunswick.

I have been here week after week lobbying for a significant change in the taxing system in New Jersey schools, said Feder.

Superintendents from around New Jersey came to the State House Thursday, urging lawmakers to pass a Democrat-penned bill that they say could solve some of their money problems. The bill would provide aid grants to eligible school districts of up to two-thirds of the amount they stand to lose this upcoming school year. It would also give school districts flexibility with the 2% tax cap and let them decide if they need to raise taxes to bring in more money.

Thats what this is about  protecting the staff, protecting the programming, protecting what we offer, the quality of education, to the kids, said Assemblyman Roy Freiman (D-NJ Deputy Majority Leader)

Senate Republicans also have a bill in the works, one that they say is already paid for.

Our plan would restore over $200 million to these districts, said Republican State Senator Declan OScanlon, who says it would take money already in the budget, like millions dedicated to Jersey Citys French art museum project, the Centre Pompidous North American branch, and repurpose it.

We have a really comprehensive plan, said OScanlon, and we also stand ready to work with the Department of Education to rework the school funding formula, so we solve this forever.

He says due to opposition, its possible the bill wont make it to committee.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley Jess Phillips complains that it is impossible to make a decent cup of tea in London  and blames Thames Water. She tells Sky News Electoral Dysfunction podcast: All tea in London is disgusting because the water in London is literally revolting. When I first came to London, I was in touch with Thames Water about my water bill. I said, Im not that keen on your water, when I was negotiating my bill and signing up for it.

She said, Madam, its 97 per cent pure, and I said, Do not ever say that statistic again because what I just heard was its 3 per cent s---. Ill only pay 97 per cent of my bill.

Phillips  who said the only place for a good cuppa is the House of Commons tea room  could be on to something.

Whats the buzz, John?

A few weeks ago Tory MP Sir John Hayes popped down to his orchard at his home in his South Holland and The Deepings constituency in Lincolnshire and found a colony of honey bees had set up in one of the apple trees. Ever practical, Hayes has now set up a hive in the orchard and is taking weekly lessons on Sundays to become a fully fledged bee keeper. He wants to populate his hive with British bees as they are, he says, calmer and more productive than imported species. The first crop of honey could arrive as soon as this year. Bees benefit from a strong leader he says. Whatever can he mean?

Last words

Actor Eddie Marsan, who was raised in Londons East End and plays the father of Amy Winehouse in the new biopic Back to Black, has been discussing the death of his mother five years ago.

He told the Where Theres A Will, Theres A Wake podcast: She was in this hospice and she was laying there and we knew she was about to die. My niece was leaning over her, and she had like a toothpick with a sponge in it and putting it in water and making sure her mouth wasnt dry. My mum hadnt opened her eyes for hours, and my niece started crying. I was holding the bowl with the water, and I was leaning right close to my mums face. I went Ah and started getting a bit emotional. My mum opened one eye and she went, Oy, pack it in! And then she died. That was the last thing she sad to me: Oy, pack it in! She didnt want me to cry.

Boris is all Greek

Until his North American tour this week, when he lambasted Rishi Sunaks smoking ban, Boris Johnson had managed to stay quiet on social media during the Easter break. But I hear that he reserved a special Easter Sunday message for a number of his friends and former colleagues, texted them the Paschal greeting,  , or Christ is Risen in Greek. Hallelujah, indeed!

Bad hair Barry

The late BBC film critic Barry Norman wrote in his memoirs And Why Not? of how BBC boss Sir Paul Fox  who died this week  once complained that last nights film show was presented by a bloke wearing a wig at a programme review meeting. Fox added vehemently: I wont have wigs on my channel!

Fox was appeased when it was explained to him that Norman had not been wearing a toupee, but had merely been suffering a bad hair day.

Birth of the celebrity hairdresser

Hairdresser Nicky Clarke has styled the tresses of some of the worlds most iconic figures, including Princess Diana and Princess Kate. I was given really good advice: Start at the bottom and go to the best place you can and sweep the floor, he told GB News this week. Asked whether he was the first celebrity hairdresser, he said: When [the term] was coined, it was referring to the celebrities, not me. I think it kind of changed afterwards. A lot of hairdressers liked the idea they were now celebrities.

Not my barber, thank goodness.

Mea culpa

Thanks to the dozens of readers who wrote to correct my appalling error that St Georges Day is April 23 not April 25 when I reported in last weeks column that ministers do not want to mark the national day with a bank holiday. I can only offer my profuse apologies.

I liked the idea from reader Dorothy Broxton, who said: The fact that it is not a bank holiday or celebrated more openly is quite shameful. The very least we can do is wear a red rose on the day, as I have done all of my adult life. My upbringing taught me to be grateful for the sacrifices of my ancestors and proud to be English. Red roses all round.

Peterborough, published every Friday at 7pm, is edited by Christopher Hope. You can reach him at peterborough@telegraph.co.uk

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Attendees of the Human Rights Campaigns Equality in Action conference in Virginia witnessed a rousing speech by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden who took the stage at the Sheraton Pentagon City near Washington, D.C. , Friday morning. Dressed in a striking bright yellow skirt suit, Biden was introduced by Human Rights Campaign president Kelley Robinson.

Biden's speech comes days after the launch of the Biden-Harris campaigns Out for Biden-Harris LGBTQ+ voter initiative and is also a crucial rallying point ahead of upcoming elections. Out for Biden-Harris, covered earlier this week exclusively by The Advocate, seeks to reengage and mobilize the nearly 11,000 LGBTQ+ volunteers who were instrumental in the 2020 electoral victory.

Addressing the audience of over 500, the first lady shared her personal reflections and the administrations accomplishments, but the core of her speech was a firm stance against bullying and pointed criticism of former President Donald Trump, whom she labeled a bully and dangerous to the LGBTQ community, to our families, to our country.

Weve made progress, but theres still so much more to do. And we cant, and we wont go back and refight the fights of the past, Biden declared, outlining the ongoing legislative attacks aimed at the LGBTQ+ community. She described the current climate of eroding freedoms, with state laws increasingly targeting LGBTQ+ rights.Just last month, we had to fend off more than 50 antigay amendments that Republicans tried to force into the government funding bill, she noted.

Bidens speech was not just a reflection of past achievements  such as codifying marriage equality through President Joe Bidens signing of the Respect for Marriage Act, the end to the ban on blood donations from gay and bisexual men in 2023, and the allowance for transgender Americans to serve openly in the military (one of Joe Bidens first actions as president)  but also a call to action.

History teaches us that our rights and our freedoms dont disappear overnight. They disappear slowly, subtly, silently: a book ban, a court decision, a dont say gay law, Jill Biden said.

Biden recalled an incident where she confronted a neighborhood bully when she was a child, connecting it to the current political struggle: I had no idea what I was going to say to him. But when he opened the door without thinking, I pulled back and punched him right in the face, noting that she would have rethought getting physical.

Still, my 13-year-old self, you know, had this point thats relevant today: When bullies threaten our loved ones, when they strip away our basic rights and deny our basic humanity, when they put our country and our democracy at risk, theres only one thing to do: We fight, Biden said.

She directly addressed the dangers posed by another Trump administration. We have to fight like hell until Joe and Kamala have another term, she said.

Her speech concluded with chants of four more years from the crowd. She then spent nearly 20 minutes at the front of the room, stepping off the stage and shaking hands and taking selfies as Lady Gagas Born this Way played on repeat.
First lady Jill Biden on Friday decried former President Trump as a bully and a threat to gains for the LGBTQ community if he is reelected in November.

The first lady spoke at the Human Rights Campaigns Equality in Action gathering in Virginia, where she highlighted progress for the LGBTQ community during the Biden administration and warned of the dangers of a second Trump term.

Donald Trump is a bully. He is dangerous to the LGBTQ community, to our families, to our country and we cannot let him win. We have to fight like hell until [President Biden] and [Vice President Harris] have another term, Jill Biden said.

The first lady noted President Biden signed legislation protecting gay marriage, reversed a Trump-era rule banning transgender individuals from serving in the military and relaxed restrictions on gay and bisexual men donating blood.

Yet there are forces outside these walls that are trying to erase these hard fought gains, trying to unwind all the progress that weve made, the first lady said.

Fridays remarks were the latest instance of Jill Biden going on the attack against Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee who will oppose President Biden on the ballot in November. She previously said Trump was dangerous to women and to our families during a campaign swing in March, citing Trumps views on abortion and his past rhetoric about women.

The first ladys remarks came days after the Biden campaign launched Out for Biden-Harris, a new national initiative aimed to mobilize LGBTQ voters. The reelection campaign argued the Biden-Harris administration is the most pro-LGBTQ White House in history, and noted it has been endorsed by top LGBTQ organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, the National Center for Transgender Equality and Equality PAC.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Job fair for veterans to be held at Soldier Field

CHICAGO  A job fair for veterans is being held next week at Soldier Field.

The Chicago Veterans Job Fair, hosted by DAV (Disabled American Veterans) and RecruitMilitary, will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 18.

Registration is free and available online.

There are 57 registered exhibitors.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is scheduled to appear alongside former President Trump on Friday as they find themselves on opposite ends of a pair of contentious debates on Capitol Hill.

The gathering at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort is being billed as a press conference to tout legislation that would prevent noncitizens from voting, something that is already illegal.

But politically, the joint appearance will give Johnson an opportunity to showcase his close ties to Trump  and afford Trump a chance to flex his tight grip on the House GOP conference  even as the former president tries to undercut the Speaker on the reauthorization of the U.S.s warrantless surveillance powers and sending additional aid to Ukraine, two issues that have divided Republicans in the lower chamber.

And hanging over the meetup is a looming threat by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.)  one of Trumps closest congressional allies  to force a vote on ousting Johnson as Speaker, a move that could thrust the House GOP conference into a state of chaos as Trump plows ahead with his reelection bid.

Those dynamics are set to converge in Palm Beach, Fla., on Friday, with Johnson looking to make a show of solidarity with the presumptive GOP nominee as he faces a tough legislative road ahead on extending the U.S.s spying powers and approving more assistance for Ukraine  paths that have become rockier because of Trumps involvement.

Its very clear that Johnson is showing up to Mar-a-Lago to use Trump as a shield to help himself with his own difficulties in the House, one Trump ally told The Hill.

Some Republicans, however, see the meeting as typical engagement between two GOP leaders  Johnson, the head of the House, and Trump, a main figure in the Republican Party.

Weve got the gavel, hes got the gavel, and youll have a lot more of these, said Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), who endorsed Nikki Haley in the 2024 presidential race before backing Trump. He is our nominee, Trump, and we got to get him in office to save this country, and Mike plays a big part of that.

But the huddle comes amid a strained stretch for the two Republicans.

Earlier this week, Trump helped fuel a GOP revolt against Johnsons bill to reauthorize the U.S.s warrantless surveillance powers  as contained in Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)  when he urged lawmakers to KILL FISA hours before the vote.

Nineteen Republicans heeded the request and tanked a procedural vote on the floor  dealing Johnson an embarrassing blow and forcing GOP leadership back to the drawing board as Congress faces an April 19 deadline to extend the spying powers.

The conservatives  and some Democrats  had voiced concerns that the underlying legislation did not include a provision that would require a warrant requirement, even though approving the procedural vote would have allowed for a vote on a warrant requirement amendment.

Johnson told GOP lawmakers in a closed-door meeting Wednesday that he spoke to Trump the day before, according to members, but he specified that the two did not discuss FISA.

Trump has similarly and relentlessly tried to influence the debate over Ukraine aid, voicing his long-standing opposition to sending additional aid to Kyiv as Johnson vows to move forward with the politically prickly issue.

Trumps resistance was made known as recently as March, when Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, after meeting with the former president, told state television that Trump will not give a penny into the Ukraine-Russia war. A growing contingent of the House GOP conference  especially those who subscribe to Trumps America First mantra  have expressed opposition to more aid for Ukraine, creating a political minefield for Johnson as he looks to help Kyivs beleaguered forces.

The two, however, have seen eye to eye on the idea of sending additional aid to Ukraine in the form of a loan, which was first proposed by Trump and has since been floated by Johnson as a potential detail of the foreign aid package that is in the works.

Even President Trump has talked about the loan concept where we set up, were not just giving foreign aid, we are setting up in our relationship where they can provide it back to us when the time is right, Johnson said on Fox News late last month.

Aside from his relationship with Trump, Johnsons moves on FISA and Ukraine aid could have far-reaching implications for his job security.

Greene, a leading Ukraine opponent who is opposed to the FISA bill, told reporters after meeting with Johnson on Wednesday that she is closely observing how the Speaker moves forward with the spying legislation and aid for Kyiv as she dangles her ouster effort against Johnson.

The Georgia Republican filed a motion to vacate  the same mechanism used to remove former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)  against Johnson late last month, but she has not yet said when she plans to force a vote on the resolution.

Right now he does not have my support, and Im watching what happens with FISA and Ukraine, Greene said.

Norman, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, said Johnsons public appearance with Trump on Friday could bolster the Speaker as he faces Greenes ouster threat.

If Trump came out and gave him his full support, yes, it would help, he said Thursday.

Greene, for her part, brushed aside the looming event.

President Trump meets with people all the time. Im not involved in his meetings, and its natural for our top presidential candidate to meet with our Republican Speaker, Greene said Thursday.

Fridays gathering will mark the third time Johnson has made the trip down to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Trump since the Louisiana congressman became Speaker in late October. Johnson attended a fundraiser for another congressman at Trumps Florida estate last November, and the Speaker met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago over Presidents Day weekend.

It will also be the latest instance of Trump bending the House GOP to his preferred agenda.

The former president was an active player in GOP efforts to find a replacement for McCarthy as Speaker last October, initially backing Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), then coming out against House Majority Whip Tom Emmers (R-Minn.) bid before ultimately supporting Johnsons nomination.

Trump earlier this year also helped sink a border security bill crafted by Sens. James Lankford (R-Okla.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), arguing it would hurt Republicans politically as he sought to make the surge of migrants at the southern border a major line of attack against the Biden administration.

For as often as Trump has posed problems for House leaders trying to keep a fractious conference in line, the former president has remained publicly supportive of Johnson as Speaker.

Trump told reporters in February he had great confidence in Johnson and called him a very good man following a difficult week that saw multiple failed votes in the House.

Johnson in 2020 was central to an effort among some lawmakers to push a legal theory to reject President Bidens election victory. That effort was eventually thrown out by the Supreme Court. But Trump has continued to push the false claim that the 2020 election was rigged and stolen, and Johnsons appearance on Friday reflects how embracing that view is something of a litmus test for Trump.

John Bolton, who previously served as Trumps national security adviser, said on CNN that Johnson needs to be willing to prioritize his principles on issues like FISA reform and Ukraine over appeasing the likes of Trump and Greene.

I dont know whats going through his mind, but I think a real Speaker of the House is an independent political force, Bolton said. And I think House Republicans, generally for their own safetys sake in the election, if nothing else, need to show that they have integrity, and its separate and distinct from Donald Trump.

Everybody goes through testing, he added. Speaker Johnson is going through it now.

Mike Lillis contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Johnson tries to avoid ouster by own party as speaker

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is on shaky ground in Congress, with a slim GOP majority and a looming threat to oust him from the Speakers chair.

We have the smallest majority in U.S. history, weve got a one vote margin right now, Johnson said.

The Speaker is at odds with conservatives in his own party, led by Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.). She filed a motion to remove him from the speakers office last month, after Johnson allowed a vote on the government funding bill that passed thanks to Democratic support.

But Greene has not yet pushed for a formal vote on his leadership.

I havent given a red line, Johnson said.

Other clashes were on display this week.

Nineteen House Republicans broke with the Speaker and voted to derail a reauthorization of the FISA National Security Surveillance Program.

If Johnson, as he has promised, brings Ukraine aid to the floor, that could be the last straw for conservatives.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) says Congress should move to pass Ukraine aid soon.

Enough. The world is on fire, Jeffries said.

Jeffries says surprisingly, some Democrats might consider coming to the rescue of the Republican speaker.

I believe there are a reasonable number of Democrats who dont want to see the Speaker fall as a result of doing the right thing. Observation, not a declaration, Jeffries said.

As Speaker Johnson works to shore up support in his own party, hell be visiting former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago Friday for an election integrity event.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
GUANGZHOU, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Since the beginning of this year, Zhao Bingdi, president of Panasonic China, has been on a tight schedule, visiting dozens of cities across China almost every week in search of new opportunities.

"I'm not only looking to expand our existing businesses but also seeking to open up some new markets, like in the central and western regions," Zhao said. "The Chinese market's potential is very large, and it's hard to find another country with such a complete industrial chain in the world."

His latest destination is Guangzhou, a renowned commercial metropolis and home to Panasonic's one and only overseas R&D base for electronics materials.

Zhao is in the south China city to attend the 10th Guangzhou Annual Investment Conference China, joining over 1,000 representatives from 18 countries and regions.

The conference, as a warm-up activity for the upcoming Canton Fair, reflects foreign investors' confidence in further revving up investment in the Chinese market.

"China's economy is very stable and resilient, providing huge development opportunities for foreign-funded enterprises. We firmly believe in and stick to the Chinese market," Zhao said.

It is the first time for German chemical giant BASF to attend the event. "Guangzhou's favorable business environment, open and inclusive atmosphere, friendly talent policies, and diversified allocation of resources provide fertile ground for technological innovation and collaborative creation," said Lou Jianfeng, chairman and president of BASF Greater China.

In recent years, Guangdong has been dedicated to building a competitive ecosystem for unicorns. "Something that stands out for me in Guangzhou and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is that it has a very active start-up ecosystem. You have a lot of policies to support, especially the rapidly growing industries like AI, semiconductors, new energy and biotech," said Rupert Hoogewerf, chairman and chief researcher of the Hurun Report, at the conference.

An increasing number of foreign enterprises are choosing Guangzhou as their innovation hub. According to the municipal commerce bureau, in the first two months of 2024, about 1,000 foreign-invested enterprises were established in Guangzhou, an increase of 56.7 percent from the previous year. The actual use of foreign investment relating to new quality productive forces exceeded 6.4 billion yuan (about 902 million U.S. dollars), up 31.5 percent year on year.

Last year, German auto supplier ZF Group opened its fourth R&D center in Guangzhou. Its automotive electronics factory, with a total investment of about 1.4 billion yuan, is also under construction and is expected to be completed in 2024.

China is not only an important production and sales base for ZF, but also a major source of new technology development and business model innovation, noted Renee Wang, executive vice president of ZF Group.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is one of the most open and dynamic regions in China, with the advantages of geographical location, a rich talent pool, and strong economic and industrial foundations, said Frederico Freire Jardim, Asia President of Kraft Heinz.

Kraft Heinz plans to invest another 320 million yuan in China this year in areas including AI, digitalization and green transformation, Jardim noted. "Fostering new quality productive forces is in line with our company strategy. We have already embarked on a journey to transform our facilities in China with cutting-edge technologies," Jardim said.

Panasonic has expanded its electronics material base located in Guangzhou's Huangpu District. Guangzhou offers an excellent environment for developing new quality productive forces, which will promote technological innovation and industrial upgrades, Zhao said. 
Dev Patels directorial debut Monkey Man premiered in theaters on March 11, and has already received rave reviews from critics and general audiences alike. The film touts an impressive 88 percent certified fresh critic score on the review aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes, and has served as the center of a wide range of social media discussion since making its premiere. Monkey Man centers on a gritty criminal underground within Mumbai, wherein impoverished amateur fighters battle for cash. The lead character, whos name is Kid, dons a monkey mask in the image of the Hindu deity Hanuman, obfuscating his identity as he rises through the ranks of the fight club, garnering a reputation for his vicious fury along the way.

The film was initially pitched to studios with the tagline John Wick set in Mumbai, highlighting the use of hyper-violent set-pieces and intense visual action. Along the way, legendary filmmaker Jordan Peele signed on as a producer, providing the film with his highly-sought after seal of approval. Now that Monkey Man has been out for a full month, its as good a time as any to dive into the over-the-top ending and unpack the films blood-soaked final moments. Needless to say, there will be major spoilers for the film ahead, so please be sure to bookmark this page and return later if you havent yet seen the film. Without further ado, lets examine the unbelievable conclusion of Monkey Man.

Unpacking Monkey Man

Monkey Mans narrative begins in a small forest village in India, where Kid lives with his mother. Unfortunately, an evil guru compels the corrupt head of the local police to ransack the village, massacring every defenseless villager who fails to escape. Kid watches as his mother is brutally beaten, assaulted, and murdered, and sustains significant burns and scars on his hands as the village burns to the ground around him. The horrifying sight is unlike any committed to film, and evokes powerful emotion from the theater-going public, especially in tumultuous political times such as these, where civilians are being forced out of their homes in places like Ukraine and Gaza.

Jumping years ahead, Kid takes on his Monkey Man identity, all the while plotting his revenge on Baba, the spiritual guru responsible for his horrific trauma, as well as the police chief who carried out his orders. To get closer to his targets, Kid infiltrates a luxury brothel frequented by the chief, and poses as an employee of the establishment. As the film carries on, Kid engages in an increasingly convoluted scheme to get closer to his targets, which leads to him eventually being arrested, shot, and nearly killed by a crazed pimp with an axe. In a trippy sequence, Kid is revived by a temple keeper named Alpha, who utilized holistic psychedelic healing techniques to bring Kid back, and address his trauma head-on along the way.

The Films Final Moments

Kid learns that Alphas temple is the next target of Baba and his goons, leading him and Alpha to team up against the fascist guru. Together, they fight their way inside Babas stronghold during a Diwali celebration, and Kid and Baba finally battle it out. Kid manages to kill Baba, but suffers serious stab wounds at the same time. As he collapses from his injuries, presumably in death, Kid remembers his mother and his faith, and is finally able to rest peacefully.

Monkey Man has no mid or end credits scenes, so the final moments are left fully ambiguous. As some critics have pointed out, the film is likely intentionally nebulous so that the producers can maintain the option of launching a sequel. If Monkey Man succeeds critically and financially, which seems highly likely, the studio may demand further franchise outings, which could see Kid revived once more by his holistic friends. If not, fans can safely assume that Kid died happy, having fulfilled his mission of avenging his mother.

What Does The Future Hold For Dev Patel?

Filmmaker Dev Patel has not expressed any explicit plans to produce a sequel at this time, though Monkey Man seems to have fulfilled its mission statement to explore Indias caste system through the lens of a classic kung fu adventure. Patel stated as much in an early April interview with ScreenRant, saying Im talking about the caste system and the action genre, kind of the core tenet of that is working your way through to get to the big boss. Normally working your way up like in Game of Death with Bruce Lee or The Raid or Judge Dredd.

Kids journey also fittingly parallels the journey of Hanuman, which dates back to Indian folklore of 1500 BC. In the story, the monkey is struck down by god after mistaking the golden sun for a sweet mango, only to work his way from a pile of ash to a super-powerful demigod in the name of seeking atonement. The legend is a core element of many Hindu texts, and serves as a major visual and thematic inspiration for Monkey Mans narrative.

Regardless of whether we see future installments in the Monkey Man franchise, critics and audiences seem to agree that Dev Patels first directorial outing is a major success. We cant wait to see what he cooks up next!
Several journalists, including a CNN stringer, were injured in an attack on a refugee camp in central Gaza, amid mounting concerns about media workers being killed and injured while covering Israels military campaign.

Israeli tanks launched a targeted attack where several journalists were working at Nuseirat camp, including a cameraman and correspondent working for TRT Arabi, according to a statement by the Jerusalem bureau chief for Turkish state broadcaster TRT. One journalist sustained wounds that left him in critical condition.

TRT cameraman Sami Shehada lost a leg, while the correspondent, Sami Barhoum, suffered minor injuries, the statement said.

This incident, occurring amidst ongoing conflict coverage, highlights the severe risks journalists face in conflict zones. This deliberate attack against media professionals, marked clearly with PRESS on their jackets, is part of a broader pattern of violence that has claimed the lives of 140 journalists since the conflict began, TRTs statement added.

CNN has reached out to the Israel Defense Forces for comment on the attack and on allegations that journalists were targeted at the camp.

Smoke billows following a strike in Nuseirat refugee camp, in central Gaza. Several journalists, including a CNN stringer, were injured in the attack on April 12. - AFP/Getty Images

Palestinian forced to flee the neighborhood in central Gaza carry their belongings. - CNN

Footage filmed by CNN shows Shehada being brought into Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, in Deir al-Balah, in an ambulance with other journalists. His right leg is severed, as he lies on the floor, making labored breaths. CNN stringer Mohammad Al-Sawalhi was also hit by shrapnel, slightly injuring his right hand and bruising his left leg, according to a hospital official.

We were filming in a safe place, I was wearing my flak jacket and my helmet, even the car I was in had a PRESS and TV sign marked on it. It was clear that I was a civilian and a journalist. We were targeted, Shehada told CNN from his operating bed.

It will not stop me from working, even if I have to walk on crutches. I will show the whole world the crimes of the Israeli occupation against civilians, people and journalists. I am one of them and I will not leave my camera even if I die, he continued, telling Al-Sawalhi to get well soon.

Video filmed by Al-Sawalhi showed people walking around the camp, pushing around donkey carts over rubble when artillery shelling targets the area. People, including children, women, and elderly, are then seen rushing to take cover inside shops, looking around cautiously for any sign of Israeli tanks before grabbing their belongings and running away in panic.

Repeated artillery fire and gunshots can be heard in the near distance.

CNN spoke to an elderly man in his 70s, named Saleh, who was trying to flee the area after Israeli tanks surrounded the camp. He told CNN he was hit by shrapnel.

Moments later, Saleh could be seen in video crossing the street when intense artillery fire hit the road a few meters away from where Al-Sawalhi was filming, forcing him to back away and take cover.

People walk among the ruins of buildings destroyed by an Israeli strike on Nuseirat refugee camp. - AFP/Getty Images

Graphic footage of the aftermath showed the Saleh severely wounded with a bloody head injury. He was taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, in Deir al-Balah, where Al-Sawalhi also went to treat his wounds. CNN footage shows a few other injured people brought into the hospital, including a number of journalists.

Israeli forces have ramped up attacks on Nuseirat camp, located north of Deir el-Balah, in recent days. An Israeli airstrike on a residential building in the camp killed 14 people on Tuesday evening, the spokesman of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, Dr. Khalil Al-Dikran, told CNN.

Israels military offensive in Gaza has been the deadliest period for journalists since the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) began gathering data in 1992. As of April 12, 2024, CPJs preliminary investigations showed at least 95 journalists and media workers have been among those killed in the besieged enclave.

UN experts have warned that targeted attacks and killings of journalists are war crimes, adding that journalists have come under attack despite being clearly identifiable in jackets and helmets marked press.

The nature of such attacks indicates that killings, injury, and detention are a deliberate strategy by Israeli forces to obstruct the media and silence critical reporting, the UN experts said in a statement in February.

CNNs Sana Noor Haq contributed reporting.

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A federal judge appeared dubious of efforts by former President Donald Trumps two co-defendants in the classified documents case to get the charges against them thrown out and to get more information from prosecutors about the charges.

The hearing in Fort Pierce, Florida, in front of US District Judge Aileen Cannon was the first major test of the obstruction case that special counsel Jack Smith has brought against two Trump employees, his valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos De Oliveira.

Even though Cannon wasnt considering any of Trumps requests for the cases dismissal Friday, how she responds to his co-defendants arguments about the obstruction charges will likely shape how the presumptive Republican nominee in the 2024 presidential election moves forward with his defense.

Over the course of a more than two-hour hearing, Cannon grilled attorneys for Nauta and De Oliveira about their arguments that the charges against their clients lacked adequate clarity. The Trump employees are accused of conspiring to help Trump hide documents at the Florida estate after he left the White House and lying to the FBI in interviews about their alleged involvement in moving the documents. They have pleaded not guilty.

Cannon appeared skeptical of De Oliveiras argument that an FBI agent asked unclear or irrelevant questions during a voluntary interview, asking his defense attorney John Irving why that argument shouldnt be made to a jury at trial. De Oliveira has been charged with lying to investigators about his involvement in moving boxes at Mar-a-Lago.

De Oliveira is arguing that the obstruction-related charges against him should be thrown out because he was not aware of subpoenas issued to Trump for both the classified documents and for Mar-a-Lago surveillance footage of the documents being moved.

Arguing for the special counsel team, Jay Bratt said prosecutors are not required to show that De Oliveira knew about the subpoenas or what they were demanding. Bratt said that prosecutors only need to show he was aware of the federal investigation.

Cannon asked Bratt where in the indictment the special counsel alleges De Oliveira had knowledge of the probe. Bratt responded that they wouldnt have charged without evidence and directed the judge to one paragraph in the indictment that used the language of the statute itself to make the allegation against the Mar-a-Lago employee.

Nautas arguments for throwing out the charges against him focused on the meaning of the word corruptly in the obstruction statute he isa ccused of violating. His attorneys claim that ongoing litigation in other cases about how the word should be interpreted made the charges unconstitutional vague.

Cannon, however, cast doubt on Nautas request to dismiss the charge on that basis. She noted that it is not unusual that crimes with an intent requirement have a circular definition for that requirement, and that is something that the law tolerates.

She also bristled at his demand for more information about the charges  with whats known as a bill of particulars  and at one point told his attorney Stan Woodward that he seemed to be expanding the bill of particulars as a device.

Woodward said Nauta was entitled to more information about how boxes at Mar-a-Lago with classified documents were moved around the resort. He is accused of moving the boxes to conceal them from a Trump attorney who was reviewing them for documents with classified markings.

Bratt suggested that the government cant know for certain where every box at Mar-a-Lago ended up, noting that the day after the attorney searched the boxes, a plane traveling to Trumps residence in Bedminster, New Jersey, was carrying many boxes  including in the planes bathroom.

Trump was not present at Fridays hearing and has several pending motions to dismiss that were not the subject of the days proceedings. In addition to the 32 counts of mishandling national defense documents, he faces several obstruction charges and has pleaded not guilty.

As Trump and his allies have argued he is being selectively prosecuted by the Biden administration, Smith and his supporters have argued that former presidents alleged efforts to obstruct the probe into classified documents taken from the Trump White House distinguishes this case from the other times former presidents and vice presidents have been investigated for their handling of sensitive government materials.

What did the aides know?

In court filings earlier this year, Nauta and De Oliveira asked Cannon to throw out the obstruction charges that they were facing because, they say, Smith hasnt met his legal burden to pursue the allegations.

Nauta argued that the criminal counts he is facing are too vague. And De Oliveira argued he had no clue that classified documents were in the boxes he allegedly helped to move around the club and therefore couldnt have been intentionally trying to block investigators from attaining important evidence.

De Oliveira also has asked the judge to toss the charges against him for allegedly lying to the FBI about moving boxes during a voluntary interview because, he claims, the criminal probe wasnt hurt by his alleged lies.

Smiths team, however, said that De Oliveiras arguments about the strength of the governments case should be left for a jury to decide. As for Nautas allegation that the charge is too vague, Smith said that the case has included extensive allegations of the criminal conduct that Nauta is alleged to have undertaken.

In his own interview with the FBI, the transcript of which was released Thursday, Nauta said that the transition out of the White House was literally chaos and repeatedly claimed that he believed Trump stored news clippings, hairspray, shampoo, picture frames and other miscellaneous materials in the boxes. Nauta is charged with lying in the interview.

Should Cannon reject their efforts, both co-defendants have asked the judge to order a document called a bill of particulars, in which prosecutors provide detailed descriptions of the offenses they plan to prove at trial.

Smiths team has called those requests a thinly veiled attempt to get the Government to disclose its trial strategy.

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Judge denied release of woman who stabbed childhood friend because of Slender Man

Judge denied release of woman who stabbed childhood friend because of Slender Man

A judge has denied the petition for conditional release for one of the two young women who were convicted in the 2014 Slender Man stabbing of a classmate in Wisconsin.

Thursday's ruling comes after two days of testimony regarding Morgan Geyser's mental health.

Geyser, 21, was found not guilty by reason of mental disease and was initially sentenced in 2018 to a maximum of 40 years of state mental health supervision.

Geyser has been in the facility for nearly a decade, but despite Thursday's ruling, her defense attorney Anthony Cotton said Geyser will try again in six months.

WISCONSIN WOMAN CONVICTED IN 'SLENDER MAN' STABBING CASE PETITIONS FOR CONDITIONAL RELEASE

FILE: Morgan Geyser is escorted out of the courtroom following her sentencing on Feb. 1, 2018, in Waukesha, Wis.

Court records show Geyser asked a Washington County judge to be released but withdrew previous petitions for early release from her commitment in 2023 and 2022.

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Geyser's attorneys now want her moved to a group home. The director of the facility, Geyser, is now in agrees with her attorneys.

"I do think at this point it is critical to make the transition to the community to help with her ongoing development," Kayla Pope, Winnebago mental health institute director, told FOX6 Milwaukee.

However, there was also testimony about Geyser telling doctors she faked her mental illness, claiming she was sexually abused as a child.

'SLENDER MAN' CASE: WISCONSIN JUDGE ORDERS CONDITIONAL RELEASE FOR WOMAN INVOLVED IN STABBING

Doctors testified stating that Geyser had not been violent towards anyone else since the stabbing. She has also been off anti-psychotic medication since December 2022. Doctors told FOX6 Milwaukee she has had no issues.

"Morgan has improved quite dramatically," Kenneth Robbins, MD. explained.

Medical experts also diagnosed Geyser with schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder.

"The victims family is vehemently opposed to the release of Morgan Geyser," prosecutor Ted Szczupakiewicz countered back.

Ultimately, Waukesha County Judge Michael Bohren agreed with the prosecution, saying Geyser's credibility is an issue and said he believes the public would be in danger if Geyser left the 24/7 care she is currently receiving.

"Under these circumstances, the court is satisfied that the scales tip in favor of the public, and it tips that way by clear and convincing evidence," the judge ruled.

WISCONSIN WOMAN CHARGED IN SLENDER MAN STABBING DROPS REQUEST FOR EARLY RELEASE FROM MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY

Geyser and Anissa Weier were 12 years old when they stabbed another girl, Payton Leutner, to appease the fictional horror character Slender Man back in 2014.

Prosecutors said Geyser and Weier lured Leutner to a wooded area in Waukesha after a sleepover in May 2014. Geyser stabbed Leutner repeatedly as Weier urged her on, prosecutors said.

Both Weier and Geyser told authorities they felt they had to kill Leutner to become Slender Man's "proxies," or servants, and protect their families from him.

Leutner was left for dead but survived the attack after she crawled out of the woods and was found by a bicyclist.

Weier, who was also committed in 2017 for the attack, was granted conditional release in September 2021 and was required to receive outpatient psychiatric treatment and subjected to GPS monitoring.

"Slender Man" started with an online post in 2009, as a mysterious specter whose image people edit into everyday scenes of children at play. He is typically depicted as a spidery figure in a black suit with a featureless white face. He was regarded by his devotees as alternately a sinister force and an avenging angel.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: Judge denied release of woman who stabbed childhood friend because of Slender Man
A New York judge on Friday tossed one of former President Trumps final remaining pathways to avoid his imminent hush money trial, rejecting his bid to delay the proceedings over prejudicial pretrial media coverage.

Judge Juan Merchan ruled that Trumps trial will go forward Monday with jury selection, rejecting defense arguments that the barrage of media coverage around the trial has prejudiced potential jurors.

Defendant appears to take the position that his situation and this case are unique and that the pre-trial publicity will never subside. However, this view does not align with reality, Merchan wrote in the four-page ruling.

The ruling marks the fourth time this week that a judge has rejected a Trump attempt for a last-minute delay of jury selection, which would mark the former presidents first criminal trial.

Trumps lawyers insisted the former president could not receive a fair trial in Manhattan this year, re-upping their demand to delay the proceedings until after this years election. Trump has looked to delay all four of his criminal cases so Trump can first try to retake the White House, which would halt the indictments.

In a motion last month, Trumps lawyers argued that extensive reporting on his legal woes  only expected to increase as the trial date nears  prevented a fair trial. They cited a media study and polling conducted at the direction of Trumps team suggesting most Manhattan residents already believe Trump is guilty.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs (D) office in opposing the delay request questioned the reliability of Trumps data but also said it suggested the opposite conclusion  that a fair group can be selected through proper jury selection procedures.

Defendant simply cannot have it both ways: complaining about the prejudicial effect of pretrial publicity, while seeking to pollute the jury pool himself by making baseless and inflammatory accusations about this trial, specific witnesses, individual prosecutors, and the Court itself, prosecutors wrote in court papers.

Trumps legal team also pointed to remarks made by two of the states expected star witnesses, ex-Trump fixer Michael Cohen and porn actress Stormy Daniels.

And the lawyers claimed that the timing of the Wednesday perjury sentencing of Trumps longtime financial gatekeeper, ex-Trump Organization chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg, was manufactured to prejudice Trump in his own case. Weisselberg was sentenced to five months for lying to state lawyers in the businesss civil fraud trial.

[N]o fair and impartial jury can be selected in this County at any time in the near future, including in April of this year. Therefore, the Court should adjourn the trial date until the prejudicial media coverage subsides, Trumps attorneys wrote in court papers.

Trump faces 34 charges of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment made by Cohen to Daniels to keep the porn actress quiet about an alleged affair with then-presidential candidate Trump ahead of the 2016 election. Trump has denied the affair and pleaded not guilty.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On Thursday, a federal judge dismissed challenges to Georgias citizenship verification requirements for voter registration.

In a statement from the Georgia Secretary of States Office after the ruling, Sec. Brad Raffensperger said all of the challenges had been dismissed, adding that the ruling followed others in favor of Georgias verification processes.

Ensuring that only U.S. citizens vote in our elections is critically important to secure and accurate elections, Raffensperger said in a statement. Georgias citizenship verification process is common sense and it works. With this ruling, we are able to continue ensuring that only U.S. citizens are voting in our elections.

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The case against Georgias citizenship verification process for voters was brought by a variety of advocates, including the New Georgia Project, Common Cause Georgia and the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda, among others.

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The lawsuit claimed that the citizenship verification process violated the constitutional rights of Georgia voters and parts of the Voting Rights Act, as well as the National Voter Registration Act.

In previous comments about the case, provided by the Sec. of States Office on Tuesday, Raffensperger said verifying citizenship before residents were added to voter rolls was important amid border security issues which he claimed originate with current federal policies by the administration of President Joe Biden.

Raffensperger said the current REAL ID system for voting registration in Georgia worked.

This system works. Failed attempts by figures like Stacey Abrams and her organization, Fair Fight, to challenge citizenship verification in court have been consistently unsuccessful. U.S. elections should be decided by U.S. citizens, and the undocumented blue wave will never reach Georgia, Raffensperger said in a statement.

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A Los Angeles Superior Court judge on Thursday vacated the conviction of William Woods, who spent nearly two years locked up  including a stint in a psychiatric hospital  for a crime he did not commit.

Woods had pleaded no contest to identity theft and false impersonation in 2019, despite trying to convince authorities he was the real Woods and someone else had stolen his identity.

Last week, the man who stole Woods' identity  Matthew David Keirans  pleaded guilty to making a false statement to a National Credit Union Administration-insured institution and aggravated identity theft.

The Los Angeles County district attorney's office then filed a motion to vacate Woods conviction.

In a hearing that lasted less than 15 minutes, Judge William C. Ryan said he was "more than happy" to sign the order vacating the conviction, calling the case "astounding."

"The word that comes to mind is Kafkaesque, out of the novels of Franz Kafka," Ryan said.

Woods, who now lives in El Paso, was not present in court but called in to the hearing.

"I'm happy, because I knew I was innocent anyway," Woods said by phone afterward. "I knew I was innocent."

Read more: A thief stole his identity, but nobody believed him. He spent nearly 2 years locked up

In a statement Thursday, Dist. Atty. George Gascon expressed his sincerest apologies" to Woods for the "unfathomable hardship he has endured."

Not only was Woods a victim of identity theft for decades, Gascon continued, "but he had to endure wrongful incarceration both in the county jail and in a state hospital as a result of being arrested and charged with the crime for which he was the actual victim.

Keirans admitted in a plea agreement to stealing Woods' identity in 1988, when the two worked together at a hot dog cart business in Albuquerque. It's unclear what motivated him to do so.

In his plea agreement, Keirans said he'd run away from home at 16 and traveled across the country. He said he'd stolen a car in San Francisco and been arrested in Oregon but never appeared in court.

After 1988, there was no record of Keirans ever using his own name, date of birth or Social Security number, according to his plea agreement.

Instead, he obtained employment, insurance, a Social Security number, drivers licenses, titles, loans and credit using Woods identity. He even paid taxes under his former co-workers name.

Matthew David Keirans worked for years as a administrator at the Unversity of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa. (Johnson County Jail)

Keirans fiction extended to his personal life. He married in 1994. The couple had a child in Oregon who bore Woods last name. To keep his charade going, Keirans in 2012 obtained Woods certified birth certificate from Kentucky, using information from Ancestry.com, according to prosecutors.

He later got a job  as Woods  working as a systems architect at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Keirans provided the hospital with fake identification documents, including a fictitious I-9 form, Social Security number and date of birth, according to the plea agreement.

Keirans worked remotely from his home in Wisconsin and earned at least $700,000 from the hospital over a 10-year period. Between 2016 and 2022, he obtained vehicle and personal loans totaling more than $200,000 from credit unions under Woods name.

On Aug. 20, 2019, Woods, whom prosecutors described as homeless, went to an L.A. branch of a national bank and told the assistant branch manager that hed recently discovered someone was using his credit and had accumulated a large amount of debt, according to Keirans plea agreement. Woods requested his account numbers so he could close the accounts.

Woods gave the assistant branch manager his Social Security card and his California ID. His name and Social Security number matched those associated with bank accounts Keirans had opened. Because of the large amounts of money in the accounts, the bank employee asked Woods a series of security questions, which he was unable to answer correctly, according to court records.

The bank employee then called the number tied to the bank accounts. Keirans answered. He told her no one in California should have access to his bank accounts. He correctly answered the security questions. The assistant branch manager called the police.

LAPD officers spoke with Keirans on the phone, and he later faxed them a copy of a Social Security card, a Wisconsin drivers license and the Kentucky birth certificate. The officers arrested Woods for unauthorized use of personal information.

On Oct. 31, 2019, the district attorneys office charged Woods with two felonies, in the name of Matthew Kierans  misspelling the real identity thiefs last name. That day in court, according to court reporter transcripts obtained by The Times, Woods told the judge, Im not Matthew Keirans at all. It is unclear how Woods was linked to the identity thiefs name.

The prosecutors office said the case had been filed under a previous administration based on police reports as well as body-worn camera video. As to why Woods was booked under the name Kierans, a spokesperson for the office said that was unclear; the LAPD did not specify how that came to happen.

In February 2020, the judge found Woods was not mentally competent to stand trial and ordered him to a psychiatric hospital. It also was ordered that he receive psychotropic medication.

A little more than eight months later, after numerous delays because of bed space and COVID-19 issues, Woods was transported to Patton State Hospital, according to a minute order from the court.

People didnt listen, and they didnt know I was who I said I was, Woods said. They were painting it like I was crazy.

Woods was convicted of felony charges in March 2021. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to two years of imprisonment in the county jail, although the court credited him for the 428 days he spent in jail and the 147 days he spent in the hospital.

He was ordered to stop using the name William Woods.

Woods said he pleaded out so the case against him would be dismissed

The case later unraveled when Woods learned where Keirans worked and contacted the Iowa City hospitals security department. They referred his complaint to the University of Iowa Police Department.

Detective Ian Mallory obtained DNA from Woods and his father, listed on the Kentucky birth certificate. The test proved that Woods was his fathers son.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
How is the jury chosen for Trumps NY criminal trial? Experts explain the challenges

On April 15, dozens of New Yorkers will be summoned to a Manhattan courtroom. There they will have the chance to serve as jurors in the hush money trial against former President Donald Trump, the first criminal trial of an ex-president in American history.

However, only 12 will be deemed worthy to sit in the jury box across from the former president.

The process of selecting the jury will be lengthy and riddled with unique challenges brought on by the defendant being one of the most well-known men in the world, one whom almost everyone has an opinion about, according to legal experts.

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How jury selection works

The first part of the jury selection process involves assembling a pool of potential jurors.

This panel, known as the venire, is randomly selected from public records, typically from lists of drivers license holders or registered voters, Sharon Fairley, a professor from practice at the University of Chicago Law School, told McClatchy News.

Members of this venire, all Manhattan residents, will then be sent a written questionnaire to help winnow down the field.

Judge Juan Merchan, who is presiding over the case, released the contents of the questionnaire in an April 8 letter. The questions focus on potential jurors occupations, their family lives and even their media consumption habits.

Once theyve narrowed the group down to the people who are going to show up to the courtroom for jury selection, then you have the process that happens in court, known as voir dire, Fairley said.

During this process, potential jurors will be peppered with questions to shed light on their backgrounds and biases.

Whats important to understand with New York state as compared to federal jury selectionis that its attorney-led voir dire, Phillip Hamilton, a criminal defense attorney in New York, told McClatchy News. This means it will be Trumps attorneys and prosecutors who will scrutinize the panel, not Judge Merchan.

The attorneys are going to have broad leeway to explore the mindset of the jurors to determine whether or not theyre going to be an impartial juror, Hamilton said.

All kinds of questions  ranging from boilerplate to hyper-specific  will be asked, Hamilton said.

There will be questions around that persons experience with the criminal justice system, Fairley said. Do they have any friends or family who have been sent to jail? Or do they have any friends or family in law enforcement?

Case-specific queries are also likely to arise, including about potential juror opinions on pornography  since the trial centers on payments made to porn star Stormy Daniels, Hamilton said.

However, the key questions are going center around the ability of the prospective jurors to put aside any politics they have, to only consider the evidence that is presented and to follow the law, Edward Kone, a criminal attorney in Florida, told McClatchy News. Anything less would be a total miscarriage of justice in any criminal case much less a case involving the opposition leader in our country.

After potential jurors are questioned, attorneys for both sides will have the opportunity to dismiss members for cause, which means theres a specific reason why they cant be on the jury, Fairley said.

These reasons could include hardship. For example, if a prospective juror is a single mother who says she cannot miss work for several weeks, she could be dismissed, Fairley said.

Potential jurors can also be sent away for cause if they have very firm views, such as a strong hatred for Trump, she said.

In addition, attorneys for both sides are allotted a specific number of peremptory strikes, which allow them to dismiss potential jurors for any reason at all, such as they dont like their body language, Fairley said.

When considering which potential jurors to keep, prosecutors look for individuals who care about holding people accountable, Fairley said. Trumps attorneys, however, will likely zero in on people who express less concern about infidelity.

Given Manhattan is a very liberal jurisdiction, Trumps lawyers may also pay special attention to potential jurors from neighborhoods that are historically more conservative, such as the Upper East Side, Hamilton said.

After all objections are made  either for cause or via peremptory strike  those who remain are chosen to serve, Hamilton said.

Its not like an affirmative choice as much as neither side has an objection, he said, so that juror survives and they become part of the jury.

Unique challenges

There are very unique challenges in the Trump case, Kone said.

Chief among them is that everyone has, at the very least, some opinions about Trump, even if they dont know the specifics of the case, Hamilton said.

Thats going to be tough, he added. People love him; people hate him, and (theyre) just going to have to try to find people who, no matter what their predisposition is towards Trump, can actually just hear the case and follow the law and the criminal procedure as is required.

However, given the high-profile nature of the case, its possible some potential jurors will disguise their true feelings in an attempt to be placed on the jury  either to acquit or convict Trump, Hamilton said.

The challenge is that jurors are supposed to be honest and direct in their answers, but you sometimes dont know if theyre being as forthcoming as they should, Fairley said.

Because of this, it will be incumbent upon both sides to take a deeper dive into the lives of potential jurors to help corroborate their answers.

Youve got to research those jurors. You have to look them up on Facebook, do some Google searches, Hamilton said.

On the other hand, there will likely be members of the pool who have little to no interest in politics, Fairley said.

Youd be surprised, Fairley said. There are a lot of people who are just not that politically involved, but theyre smart and capable and can do the job.

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A man who previously pleaded guilty for the murder of a five-year-old Phenix City girl has now been found guilty by a jury in Russell County.

Jeremy Tremaine Williams was found guilty on capital murder charges involving the death of Kamarie Holland, who was killed on Dec. 13, 2021, after being raped and strangled by Williams. Williams had previously pleaded guilty to the charges.

However, Alabama law dictates that a case carrying the death penalty cannot be resolved by pleading guilty.

He was found guilty of the following:

Capital murder for the death of a child under the age of 14.

Capital murder for killing her in course of kidnapping.

Capital murder for killing her while committing first-degree rape.

Capital murder for killing her while committing first-degree sodomy.

The court will determine in a separate hearing Monday if Williams should be executed as a result of this case.

Over the past few days the jury was shown video evidence of Hollands sexual abuse by Williams and the response of CPD officers who found Hollands body.

Friday morning began with the testimony of someone claiming to be a former victim of Williams. The individual was 5-years-old at the time, the same age Holland was when she was sexually abused, tied up with rope, and strangled by Williams.

The witness began to cry as she testified about the abuse she said she endured.

After her testimony a short recess was taken before closing arguments began.

Assistant District Attorney for Russell County, Malory Hatfield, said the prosecution met all requirements to prove the charges against Williams beyond a reasonable doubt.

Hatfield told the jury, This angel baby didnt deserve this.

She ended her arguments by saying, Find this man guilty.

One of Williams attorneys, Charles Chuck Floyd III, stood up to give closing arguments.

He began by saying its been a long week and thanked the jury for their attention. Floyd said Williams didnt want the jury to have to be there and pointed out how his client had previously plead guilty to the charges he was standing trial for.

Floyd said he didnt understand the Alabama statute requiring someone to stand trial after pleading guilty until he began asking questions of potential jurors.

He said a question was asked on whether potential jurors believed a person would plead guilty when they werent and he saw hands were raised.

Floyd asked jurors to go through all of the evidence and to prove the state proved all elements of the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Russell County District Attorney Rick Chancey said hell never forget the call he received of Hollands death.

The caller said, Hey man, are you ready?

Chancey would later say he wasnt ready for what came.

Chancey said he deliberated which videos of Hollands assault to show and said they added 15 people who will forever be unable to unsee the images from the video of Hollands assault. He apologized to the member of the jury for that.

As Chancey continued with his closing arguments he would begin to shed tears and his voice would begin to crack and become weak in some instances.

Chancey said he couldnt come up with a word to describe Williams but said guilty would suffice for that day.

He told the jury they can rest assured that Williams is guilty.
This photo taken on April 8, 2024 shows a street view in Paramaribo, Suriname. (Photo by Ricardo Montoya/Xinhua)

Born and raised in the village of Botopasi, Harry Wens Potter has been assisting the Power China team since the beginning of the second phase, coordinating with local residents. "I work hard because when there is uninterrupted electricity at home, we can store food in the refrigerator and have better meals. We will have a better future," Potter told Xinhua.

PARAMARIBO, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Nestled deep within the embrace of the Amazon rainforest lies Botopasi village, right in the heart of Suriname. Getting there from the capital city of Paramaribo takes five and a half hours -- two and a half hours by car and another three by boat along the Suriname River.

Besides the underdeveloped transportation infrastructure, villagers in the region are also unable to connect to the national electricity grid, thus lacking a continuous power supply for long periods of time. The diesel fuel provided by the government only generates a five-hour electricity supply per day.

The absence of electricity and other inconveniences have compelled many Botopasi villagers to relocate to the capital in recent years, resulting in a decline in the village's population.

This photo taken on April 5, 2024 shows a street view in Paramaribo, Suriname. (Photo by Ricardo Montoya/Xinhua)

In 2019, Suriname's Ministry of Natural Resources signed an agreement with Power Construction Corporation of China (Power China), hoping to jointly solve the electricity problem for villagers in this area.

After studying more than 10 villages, Xiong Zekun, Project Manager of Power China of Surinam Villages Micro-grid Solar Project, and his team presented a plan to build photovoltaic stations and install transmission lines in each village, forming a microgrid in each region.

Following the approval of the plan by the Surinamese government, Power China began construction. Six months later, it delivered the first phase of the project, the Goejaba microgrid, in June 2020.

The successful operation of the first phase of the project has prompted the government of Suriname to authorize Power China to build microgrids in more villages. In October 2021, the second phase of the project was officially launched.

The village of Botopasi, where the camp for the second phase of Power China's project is located, is one of the nine villages set to benefit from the second of five complexes. Once completed, these complexes will provide uninterrupted clean energy to more than 3,000 residents.

This photo taken on April 5, 2024 shows a harbor in Paramaribo, Suriname. (Photo by Ricardo Montoya/Xinhua)

Born and raised in the village of Botopasi, Harry Wens Potter has been assisting the Power China team since the beginning of the second phase, coordinating with local residents. "I work hard because when there is uninterrupted electricity at home, we can store food in the refrigerator and have better meals. We will have a better future," Potter told Xinhua.

After delivering the first phase of the project to the government for operation, Power China encountered many difficulties due to the lack of professional local technicians. In response, Power China has decided to operate the second phase for three years after its completion. During this period, China will assist local governments in training their own operation and maintenance personnel, aiming to enhance the project's long-term viability.

Xiong recalled the night when the first phase of the project was inaugurated. "After turning on the lights and leaving the station, I passed by a house and saw a child studying under a lit lamp. This scene made me feel that all the efforts for this project were worth it," he said.
Just get out there. State College runner continues to inspire at 104 years old

Weeks after celebrating his 104th birthday, George Etzweiler is lacing up his running shoes in preparation for another season of outdoor fitness events.

First up is the Paterno Family Beaver Stadium Run where Etzweiler, a longtime State College resident, plans to walk the two miles of the event during Penn States Blue-White weekend. The 5K run and two-mile family fun walk takes place Sunday, with proceeds from the event benefiting Special Olympics Pennsylvania.

The race ends at the 50-yard line of Beaver Stadium, which a 103-year-old Etzweiler rappelled down last year as part of the Over the Edge fundraiser.

After a brief hospitalization in March, Etzweiler has resumed training and is looking forward to kicking off the start of the 2024 running season.

George Etzweiler dances with Berta DeDonato as he warms up for his work out at Kinetik Fitness on Friday, April 5, 2024.

Etzweiler is doing the Beaver Stadium walk with two groups this year  his all-senior relay running team, the Old Men of the Mountains, and a group from Kinetik Fitness, the State College gym where he trains twice a week.

Each week, Etzweiler and other group members meet at Laurel Run Road in Rothrock State Forest to train for the Tussey Mountainback 50-mile relay, which will take place in October. Over the years, nearly 30 members of his group have come and gone but Etzweiler has remained. This will be the 18th consecutive year the group has participated in the race, with Etzweiler hoping to finish the fifth leg of the relay.

Im actually the only one whos run every time with the team since it was formed ... when I was a young man of 87, said Etzweiler, a retired engineering professor. The days when I could actually run two legs (of the relay).

George Etzweiler walks past a sign promoting the Kinetik Fitness team participating in the Special Olympics run on Friday, April 5, 2024. George, who is 104, is training to do the 2 mile walk.

Mike Casper, race director of the Tussey Mountainback, said that calling Etzweiler inspiring is an understatement. Seeing Etzweiler train on Laurel Run Road every week helps put into perspective how important physical activity and getting outdoors is, Casper said.

I think theres a connection he has with nature and with the world that must propel him along every day, he said.

As the years go on, his mile times get longer, but that hasnt stopped Etzweiler.

It gets awful hard to go a mile when youre 104, Etzweiler said. Runners World has what they call an age graded calculator and its handicapped based on age, and there is a rather constant deterioration as you get older. But boy, when you get right into the 90s, that thing goes crazy.

Trainer Berta DeDonato reminds George Etzweiler to keep his head up as he exercises at Kinetik Fitness on Friday, April 5, 2024.

At 104, Etzweiler has surpassed the Runners World scale, which only reaches 100. Hes broken age records as a member of the Mount Washington Road Race Hall of Fame, finishing the 7.6 mile race up the highest peak in New Hampshire 13 times, the last time when he was 98.

Throughout his races, Etzweiler has served as an inspiration for those around him and a reminder to keep going. One time on Mount Washington, a runner who chose to retire from the race early ran into Etzweiler on her way down and stopped to talk with him.

She didnt look like she had finished the race and was coming back down. And when she got to us, she turned around and started walking with us, he said. She just couldnt go any farther, she just couldnt finish. So she gave up, walked back down and then decided if I was going to finish walking that way, that she would just go on with us.

After decades of running, Etzweiler has no plans to stop anytime soon, and shared his advice to new runners or soon-to-be runners.

Just get out there and get started, he said.

George Etzweiler high-fives trainer Missy Quick after his workout at Kinetik Fitness on Friday, April 5, 2024.

George Etzweiler does an exercise at Kinetik Fitness on Friday, April 5, 2024.
Just two US colleges are doing enough to fight antisemitism  while Ivy Leagues fail, report says

Harvard University was found to be failing its Jewish students in a new report.

Just two US universities are doing enough to fight antisemitism on campuses, according to an eye-opening report that graded colleges on their policies to protect Jewish students  while 13 of the nations most elite schools, including Harvard and Princeton, were given an F.

The Anti-Defamation League reviewed 85 of Americas top universities and those with the highest proportion of Jewish students. The only schools to receive an A grade for fighting Jew-hatred were Brandeis University in Massachusetts and Elon University in North Carolina.

Harvard University was found to be failing its Jewish students in a new report. AP

Meanwhile, the leading Jewish civil rights group gave fat F grades to more than a dozen of the countrys top institutions, including Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton, Stanford, the Universities of Chicago, Virginia, North Carolina, Tufts University, and SUNYs Purchase and Rockland campuses.

As I travel the country, Im constantly hearing from Jewish families agonizing over where they will send their kids to college, ADLs CEO Jonathan Greenblatt said.

School leadership must make serious changes to support Jewish communities on their campus; we expect nothing less.

The unsettling report card documented 746 alleged anti-semitic incidents at the 85 campuses.

Reports of antisemitism on US college campuses have skyrocketed amid the Israel-Hamas war and a proliferation of protests in support of either Israel or the Palestinians.

The ADLs review praised Brandeis for being the first private university to revoke official recognition of its Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter, due to the controversial groups hostile activity on campus in the wake of the October 7 attacks.

Brandeis University was one of two universities to receive an A rating. Shutterstock

The Massachusetts school also made clear that antisemitic phrases such as From the River to the Sea are deemed hate speech and are contrary to the universitys principles.

The ADL also commended Elon University for providing opportunities for students and faculty to learn about Hamas attack and encouraging respectful and informed dialogue.

Meanwhile, two dozen schools received disappointing D grades, including Ivy League institutions Columbia, Brown, Yale, Cornell, and the University of Pennsylvania.

Rutgers University, the University of California at Berkeley, UCLA, Johns Hopkins, Barnard College, the University of Michigan, and SUNY New Paltz also scored D grades.

Seventeen colleges earned a B grade, including New Yorks CUNYs Brooklyn College, and Hofstra University, while 29 were given a C, including New York University, Queens College, and Syracuse.

Columbia University and its sister college, Barnard College, received a D rating. jeeweevh  stock.adobe.com

Among the disturbing incidents reported on top US college campuses include numerous anti-Israel protests spewing antisemitic rhetoric.

At Harvard, some pro-Palestinian student groups immediately blamed Israel for Hamass brutal sneak attack on the Jewish State. The Ivy Leagues former president, Claudine Gay, then refused to say that anyone calling for the genocide of Jews at the university would be punished in disastrous congressional testimony in December.

Jewish students at Columbia reported being spat on and subjected to antisemitic rhetoric including Fk the Jews.

In October 2023, an Israeli student was beaten with a stick outside of the universitys library after confronting a perpetrator for ripping down flyers of Israeli hostages held by the terror group.

Columbia also received calls to remove Professor Joseph Massad after he described Hamas terrorist attack on Israel as a resistance offensive to Israeli settler-colonialism and racism toward the Palestinians.

Cornell encountered a few of the most high-profile antisemitic incidents on campus last fall, including when a student threatened to shoot and stab Jewish students and attack the campus kosher dining hall.

In addition, a Cornell professor, Russel Rickford, said at a campus rally that he was exhilarated by the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel.

Like all students, Jewish students deserve to feel safe and supported on campus. They deserve a learning environment free from antisemitism and hate. But that hasnt been the experience with antisemitism running rampant on campus since even before October 7, Greenblatt said.

At a time when antisemitic incidents on campus are at historic levels, administrators need to adopt new policies to address this scourge and have the willingness to enforce existing codes of conduct to ensure all students are safe.

House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik, whose hearings on campus antisemitism triggered the ouster of two Ivy League college presidents, welcomed the ADL report.

The ADLs Antisemitism Report Card confirmed what weve known for years; there is a moral rot in our higher education system, Stefanik said.

This highlights why House Republicans ongoing investigation is so necessary to protect students and reset higher educations course from this disgraceful chapter.
Vice President Kamala Harris will explicitly blame Donald Trump for Arizonas recently upheld near-total abortion ban in a speech on Friday, blasting the former President on an issue that is expected to dominate the states elections this fall.

In her remarks in Tucson, Harris will condemn what she perceives as an assault on women's rights and frame Arizonas abortion ban as a direct consequence of Trump-era policies and rhetoric, according to excerpts of her speech released by the Biden campaign. "Heres what a second Trump term looks like: more bans, more suffering, less freedom," she will say. "But we are not going to let that happen."

Harris trip to Arizona comes just four days after the state supreme court decided to bring back a 160-year-old near total ban on abortion, thrusting the critical swing state into the forefront of the battle for reproductive rights in an election year. Political strategists in both parties told TIME that the ruling will likely sway even moderate Republicans towards the Democratic camp, while also energizing young voters.

The Biden campaign has used the ruling to intensify its efforts to attack Republicans and blame Trump, who regularly takes credit for appointing the three U.S. Supreme Court justices who helped overturn Roe v. Wade nearly two years ago. In her speech, Harris plans to paint Trump as the architect of this health care crisis and point to his previous comments about how women who seek abortions should be punished, the excerpts say, marking one of her most direct assaults on Trump's stance on abortion to date.

Read More: After Abortion Ban, Arizona Just Became the Most Important State in 2024 Politics

Harris has in recent months become increasingly vocal about the Biden Administrations support for protecting reproductive rights and combating the erosion of women's health care access across the nation, signaling how abortion has become a pivotal issue in the upcoming presidential election. Her trip to Arizona follows a series of nationwide engagements centered on reproductive rights, including stops in swing states such as Wisconsin, Michigan, and Georgia.

The fight over reproductive rights has in recent years become one of the most potent issues in motivating Democrats to voteand polls show that abortion could similarly motivate Arizona voters this fall. A March Fox News poll from before the state Supreme Courts ruling found that 39% of Arizona voters said abortion would be extremely important in deciding their vote for president, and 32% said it would be very important. In an October New York Times-Siena College poll from last year, 59% of Arizona registered voters said abortion should be mostly or always legal; 34% said it should be mostly or always illegal. The ruling this week is likely to make the issue even more significant to voters in the state.

Trumps stance on abortion bans has shifted ahead of the 2024 election. He said on Wednesday that the Arizona supreme court went too far in its ruling, and earlier declined to endorse a federal abortion ban, instead saying on Monday that decisions regarding abortion should be left to individual states. As President, he backed a 20-week federal abortion ban, which never passed Congress.

Arizona, a key swing state that helped secure the presidency for Joe Biden in 2020 after voting for Trump in 2016, will have a critical role to play in both the presidential election in November and in a Senate race that will help determine the balance of power in Congress. Voters will not only weigh in on abortion as they vote for candidates, but also likely by casting votes on a ballot measure that would enshrine abortion in the Arizona constitution.

This abortion initiative is going to drive a lot of young voters to the polls, says Barrett Marson, an Arizona-based Republican strategist. The Biden campaign [is] going to have to say, look, come for the abortion initiative, stay for us. Theyve got to make sure voters don't just vote on abortion and then go home.

A campaign official said the Biden campaign plans to ramp up its abortion messaging in Arizona ahead of the election, unveiling a seven-figure investment ahead of Harriss visit that includes advertising initiatives aimed at bolstering support for abortion rights.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
By Ted Hesson and Trevor Hunnicutt

TUCSON, Arizona (Reuters) -U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday blamed Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump for the loss of abortion rights in Arizona, three days after a court there upheld a 160-year-old ban on the procedure.

Arizona's conservative Supreme Court sent a shockwave through one of 2024's most competitive election states, which could swing the presidential race and determine control of the Senate.

Strategists in both parties said the ruling, which outlaws nearly all abortions, would push even Republican-leaning moderates toward Democrats, while also animating young voters and voters of color.

"We all must understand who is to blame: former President Donald Trump did this," Harris said before an audience that included reproductive health patients and providers in Tucson. "A second Trump term would be even worse... If Donald Trump gets the chance, he will sign a national abortion ban."

Trump, set to face U.S. President Joe Biden again in November's election, has distanced himself from the Arizona ruling. On Wednesday, he said the court had gone too far in reviving a near-total abortion ban, even while defending the Supreme Court decision that permitted states to restrict abortion.

"President Trump could not have been more clear. These are decisions for people of each state to make," said Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson.

Biden beat Trump in Arizona by fewer than 11,000 votes out of 3.3 million ballots cast in 2020, the Democrat's narrowest margin of victory in any state.

Democrats think their opposition to restrictions on reproductive rights can help them secure another victory in the border state where voters had been more focused on cost-of-living issues and immigration.

Biden has tasked Harris, a former prosecutor and senator, with leading the administration's reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 ruling overturning abortion rights and with reaching core liberal voters undecided on a second, four-year term for the president.

The Supreme Court's decision overturning the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision was powered by a conservative majority that Trump installed.

Harris visited Phoenix, Arizona's capital, just last month to talk about abortion rights as part of a "Fight for Reproductive Freedoms" tour that has taken her to 20 states and included a visit to a Minnesota health clinic that offers abortion services.

U.S. Representative Ruben Gallego, an Arizona Democrat running for a U.S. Senate seat in the western state, criticized his Republican opponent Kari Lake for previously backing the abortion ban even though Lake disavowed the court ruling to reinstate it.

Gallego traveled with Harris from Washington to Tucson and was set to hold another event on the topic in Phoenix later on Friday.

"We don't want this to be our brand. Arizona's a state that's got a booming economy," Gallego told reporters aboard Air Force Two. "Now we look like this state that is relegating our women back to the 1860 laws?"

The Biden campaign has aired an advertisement in Arizona in which a Texas woman tearfully describes almost dying after she was denied an abortion following a miscarriage. Across a black screen, the words "Donald Trump did this" flash as her sobs continue in the background.

Asked at the White House on Wednesday what he would say to the people of Arizona, Biden replied, "Elect me."

Biden ran on legalizing abortion but Democrats did not deliver him such a bill when they controlled Congress by slim margins from 2021-2023.

(Reporting by Ted Hesson in Tucson, Arizona, and Trevor Hunnicutt in WashingtonEditing by Don Durfee, Diane Craft and Josie Kao)
Vice President Kamala Harris Friday headed to Arizona to rally opposition to the conservative state supreme courts ruling that imposes a 160-year-old law banning nearly all abortions.

With outrage spreading over the decision, Harris was set to urge voters to pressure Republican lawmakers to repeal the 1864 ban and support a November ballot measure that would protect abortion rights in the battleground state.

The veep, who is playing the role of White House point person on reproductive rights, will denounce former President Donald Trump as the architect of this health care crisis for engineering the overturning of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision on abortion.

Heres what a second Trump term looks like: more bans, more suffering, less freedom, Harris will say, according to prepared remarks released by the Biden-Harris re-election campaign. But we are not going to let that happen.

Underlining the national stakes of the abortion issue, Harris will be joined at the event in Tucson by Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego, who is running for an open U.S. Senate seat.

Democrats smell political blood as Trump and his Republican allies scramble to come up with a viable position on the lightning rod issue.

Both Arizona and Trumps home state of Florida are expected to have abortion-rights measures on the ballot in November, a huge boon to President Joe Biden and Democrats because it energizes their supporters and underlines the stakes of the vote.

Arizona is a pivotal battleground state and is considered a must-win for Trump as he battles Biden in a rematch of the 2020 fight for the White House.

About two-thirds of Americans mostly support legal abortion, but Republican leaders generally oppose it, underlining the political peril for the GOP.

Trump, who has flip-flopped on abortion for years, sought to wash his hands of the issue Monday with a statement claiming he would leave the issue to the states. He later suggested he would no longer back a national ban on abortion.

It took just 24 hours for that stance to blow up in his face when Arizonas Republican-appointed supreme court ruled that an abortion ban passed during the Civil War  when slavery was legal and women were barred from voting  could go into effect within a matter of a few days.

Trump claimed the ruling went too far and vowed it would be soon be straightened out. But GOP lawmakers, many of whom support a total abortion ban, quickly rejected an effort to repeal the 1864 law.

Meanwhile, Republican Kari Lake, a Trump loyalist who is running against Gallego, scrambled to whitewash her previous outspoken support for the 1864 law, saying she now opposes it without explaining what had changed.

Two endangered Republican congressmen have also come out against the 1864 law, though they cheered the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and have backed similar bans in the past.

-------
Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a campaign event in Arizona on Friday following the state Supreme Courts recent ruling that an 1864 near-total abortion ban can go into effect.

Here in Arizona, they have turned the back the clock to the 1800s to take away a womans most fundamental right, the right to make decisions over her own body, Harris told a crowd in Tucson. The overturning of Roe was, without any question, a seismic event. And this ban here in Arizona is one of the biggest aftershocks yet.

The near-total ban wont go into effect until 45 days after the Arizona Supreme Court issues its formal ruling.

The Arizona high court greenlit the reinstatement of the archaic abortion law  which predates Arizonas statehood  earlier this week. It bans nearly all abortions except for when the pregnant persons life is at risk. It also carries a felony punishment of two to five years in prison for abortion providers.

Harris emphasized how important the outcome of the 2024 election will be for reproductive rights, adding that former President Donald Trump will sign a national abortion ban if reelected in the fall.

We all must understand who is to blame. Former President Donald Trump did this, Harris said. Donald Trump is the architect of this health care crisis. And that is not a fact, by the way, that he hides. In fact, he brags about it.

Harris warned that if reelected, Trump could choose to enforce the Comstock Act, an 1873 law that states its illegal to send obscene materials in the mail including items that relate to sexual health and contraception. Anti-choice conservative groups have laid out a plan to enforce the zombie law and create a backdoor national abortion ban.

Just like what he did in Arizona, he basically wants to take America back to the 1800s, Harris said. But we are not going to let that happen.

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks on reproductive freedom in Tucson, Arizona, on April 12, 2024. FREDERIC J. BROWN via Getty Images

Trump has continually boasted about his role in appointing the three Supreme Court justices who were critical in repealing Roe v. Wade. The presumptive GOP presidential nominee said this week that he believes abortion rights should be left to the states, but later said the Arizona ruling went too far.

He also claimed he would not sign a national abortion ban if he gets to the White House, though past reporting suggests he has at least considered implementing a 15- or 16-week ban. Trump, who has aligned himself with extreme anti-abortion groups, could still enact the Comstock Act or direct the Food and Drug Administration to roll back access to abortion pills.

What has happened here in Arizona is a new inflection point, the vice president said. It has demonstrated once and for all that overturning Roe was just the opening act of a larger strategy to take womens rights and freedoms  part of a full on attack, state by state, on reproductive freedom.

Harris was joined by Arizona Rep. Ruben Gallego (D), Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and state Sen. Eva Burch (D), as well as other lawmakers and abortion rights advocates.

Gallego is set to face off with former news anchor Kari Lake for a Senate seat this fall after Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an independent, announced her retirement. Lake, the Republican nominee for Arizona governor in 2022, is working overtime to walk back her past statements on abortion. During a GOP debate that year, Lake had suggested she would support reviving the 1864 law. She has also said several times that she believes life begins at conception and that abortion pills should be illegal.

But just this week, Lake released a campaign video denouncing the Arizona near-total abortion ban. Her video, in which she emphasizes that she wants to make sure every woman who finds herself pregnant has more choices, is a sharp departure from her past statements.

Related...
This article was originally published in Kansas Reflector.

TOPEKA  The Kansas State Board of Education on Tuesday voted to expand indigenous education outreach from the K-12 to college level, following debate that touched on mascots and political agendas.

Members approved 9-1 a memorandum of understanding to establish the Kansas Advisory Council for Indigenous Education, joining the Kansas Board of Regents with the agreement. The vote formalizes the partnership between the state board, regents and advisory council on consultation about Kansas indigenous education. The regents signed the agreement March 21.

We have the opportunity to have some meaningful educational opportunities, just to have conversations, just to understand each other better. I think that is critical, board member Jim Porter said.

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The Kansas Advisory Council for Indigenous Education was created as a temporary committee, meant to strengthen relationships with the states four Native nations and bolster educational outcomes for indigenous children and youths. Board member Dennis Hershberger cautioned against political animus in historical discussion before voting in favor of the measure.

Im just wanting to encourage factual history to be taught and if thats the goal, then I appreciate that effort. Hershberger said.  From a biblical standpoint, everyones created equal and we want to look at every one with virtue and value. Its so important that we look at history that way.

The move comes two years after comments from Randy Watson, the Kansas commissioner of education, during a virtual education conference in 2022.

I had some cousins from California. They were petrified of tornadoes, Watson said at the time. Theyd come visit us, you know, in the summer. They were like, Are we going to get killed by a tornado? And Id say, Dont worry about that, but you got to worry about the Indians raiding the town at any time. And they really thought that.

Watson apologized for these comments and was suspended without pay for one month.

During Tuesdays Board of Education discussion, several members asked about the political impact of the council. Board member Danny Zeck, the one no vote, questioned council member Alex Red Corn, a citizen of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma and an assistant professor at Kansas State University, on mascot recommendations.

Is this the same group that wants to get rid of all the mascots? Zeck said

In 2022, the council recommended that the BOE prioritize persuading local school officials to abandon culturally offensive branding.

More than 20 Kansas schools still have American Indian themed mascots, and many tribes have expressed opposition to these mascots due to concerns they damage the perception of indigenous people and encourage stereotypes that represent American Indians as exotic, warlike people who are stuck in the past, according to a council memorandum.

Red Corn said the group is currently focusing on analyzing student data and working on teacher certification.

Mascots tend to get more attention, Red Corn said. But theyre actually not much of the bandwidth that were working on right now.  Were actually moving toward the idea that we need to create collaborative systems of education so they learn about this place, it is Kansas, and its history and what it is today because of that history.

Kansas Reflector is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Kansas Reflector maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sherman Smith for questions: info@kansasreflector.com. Follow Kansas Reflector on Facebook and Twitter.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Kansas City man has been sentenced for the raping of a child under 12 in Jackson County.

A Jackson County judge on Thursday sentenced Brandon Williams to four life sentences without parole for sexual assaults of a girl under the age of 12.

Woman found not guilty in 2020 Smithville deadly shooting

In Missouri a life sentence is 30 years. This means he would not be eligible for parole for 120 years.

Williams was convicted in February by a Jackson County jury to four counts of first-degree rape for assaulting a young girl.

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Court records say the girl reported Williams raped her repeatedly for a period of two years.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Editors Note: The description for Senate Bill 434 in the article below was listed with the description of another bill bearing the same title from 2022. It is now updated with the correct information for Senate Bill 434 for 2024. We regret this error.

TOPEKA (KSNT)  Kansas governor is vetoing several bills and giving her reasoning why this Friday.

Governor Laura Kelly is vetoing six bills April 12, sending them back to the Legislature for further debate, according to an announcement from the Office of the Governor. One bill is being allowed to become state law without her signature.

Substitute Bill for Senate Bill 233

This bill would enact the forbidding abuse child transitions act, according to the description on the bill. This would bring about the following measures:

Restrict use of state funds to promote gender transitioning

Prohibit healthcare providers from treating children whose gender identity is inconsistent with the childs sex

Authorizes a civil cause of action against healthcare providers for providing such treatments

Requires professional discipline against a healthcare provider who performs such treatment

Prohibits professional liability insurance from covering damages for healthcare providers that provide gender transition treatment to children

Adds violation of the act to the definition of unprofessional conduct for physicians and nurses.

This divisive legislation targets a small group of Kansans by placing government mandates on them and dictating to parents how to best raise and care for their children. I do not believe that is a conservative value, and its certainly not a Kansas value. To be clear, this legislation tramples parental rights. The last place that I would want to be as a politician is between a parent and a child who needed medical care of any kind. And, yet, that is exactly what this legislation does. If the legislature paid this much attention to the other 99.8% of students, wed have the best schools on earth. Gov. Laura Kelly

As we watch other states, nations, and organizations reverse course on these experimental procedures on children, Laura Kelly will most surely find herself on the wrong side of history with her reckless veto of this common-sense protection for Kansas minors. House Republicans stand ready to override her veto to protect vulnerable Kansas kids. Kansas House Speaker Daniel Hawkins

Kansas woman spots gravity wave weather phenomenon

House Bill 2749

If enacted, this bill would require medical care facilities and providers to report the reasons for each abortion performed at facilities in Kansas or by providers to the secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, according to the bills description.

Kansans spoke loud and clear in August 2022. Voters do not want politicians getting between doctors and their patient by interfering in private medical decisions. House Bill 2749 is invasive and unnecessary. There is no valid medical reason to force a woman to disclose to the legislature if they have been a victim of abuse, rape, or incest prior to obtaining an abortion. There is also no valid reason to force a woman to disclose to the legislature why she is seeking an abortion. I refuse to sign legislation that goes against the will of the majority of Kansans who spoke loudly on August 2, 2022: Kansans dont want politicians involved in their private medical decisions. Gov. Laura Kelly

Voluntary and anonymous data collection that even the Guttmacher Institute says can help inform public debate and policy should not be suppressed by the Governor and her irrational fears of offending the for-profit pro-abortion lobby. As Kansas continues to see record numbers of abortions performed, House Republicans are committed to overriding the Governors veto to ensure KDHE is adequately equipped with relevant and up-to-date information. Kansas House Speaker Daniel Hawkins

Substitute Bill for House Bill 2436

This bill would create the crime of coercion to obtain an abortion and provide enhanced criminal penalties for offenses committed with the intent to coerce a woman to obtain an abortion, according to language in the bill.

While I agree that no one should be coerced into undergoing a medical procedure against their will, it is already a crime to threaten violence against another individual. Additionally, I am concerned with the vague language in this bill and its potential to intrude upon private, often difficult, conversations between a person and their family, friends, and health care providers. This overly broad language risks criminalizing Kansans who are being confided in by their loved ones or simply sharing their expertise as a health care provider. Gov. Laura Kelly

Its a sad day for Kansas when the Governors uncompromising support of abortion wont even allow her to advocate for trafficking and abuse victims who are coerced into the procedure. Coercion is wrong, no matter the circumstance, and Laura Kellys veto is a step too far for common sense Kansans. House Republicans are ready to override her radical stance, help break these cycles of abuse, and protect Kansas women. Kansas House Speaker Daniel Hawkins

A win for our workforce: Kelly signs workers compensation bill

Senate Bill 434

If passed, the bill would exempt the practice of hair removal by sugaring from the definition of cosmetology, according to the description on the bill.

I have serious concerns that deregulating sugaring  a hair removal technique that may be performed on minors  could lead to safety and sanitation problems. We have a responsibility to protect Kansans  and this deregulation would threaten the health and safety of Kansans  particularly our children. Under the purview of the Kansas Board of Cosmetology, sugaring practitioners are required to adhere to the same health and safety standards as other cosmetologists and estheticians. They are subject to criminal background checks and training prior to the successful completion of exams to earn state licensure. Deregulating sugaring risks contamination, improper infection control, and potential safety issues involving minors. I am not willing to undermine the Kansas Board of Cosmetologys expertise or threaten the long-term health and safety of Kansans who receive sugaring services. Gov. Laura Kelly

House Bill 2446

If the governor signed off on this legislation, it would prohibit cities and counties from regulating plastic and other containers designed for the consumption, transportation or protection of merchandise, food or beverages, according to the bills description.

I believe in local control and that local officials should be held accountable by their constituents, stakeholders, and businesses. This bill lacks sufficient protection to ensure local units of government are able to play a meaningful role in decision making on issues impacting their communities. Gov. Laura Kelly

Kansas workers plead guilty in $1M conspiracy case

House Bill 2648

This bill would require the director of the budget to independently determine costs of compliance and implementation for all proposed rules and regulations and authorize the director of the budget to disapprove proposed rules and regulations, according to the Legislature.

House Bill 2648 would insert bureaucratic red tape intended to legislatively interfere with the timely implementation of necessary and important rules and regulations. Many of these regulations are for the protection and safety of Kansans. Kansans voted no to giving the legislature veto power over rules and regulations in the November 2022 election. This is yet again another attempt by the legislature to undermine the will of the voters. Gov. Laura Kelly

Senate Bill 394

This bill requires the use of age-verification technology to permit access to internet website containing material harmful to minors, according to the bills description.

While well-meaning in its efforts to protect children from content the legislature considers harmful to minors, this bill is vague in its application and may end up infringing on constitutional rights, which is an issue being litigated in other jurisdictions over similar bills. For that reason, I will allow this bill to become law without my signature. Gov. Laura Kelly

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
China to up financial support for equipment upgrades, trade-ins of consumer goods

Xinhua) 08:09, April 12, 2024

A worker inspects the equipment in an intelligent workshop of a fastener-producing company in Yongnian District of Handan, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Xiao)

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- China will provide strong financial support for large-scale equipment renewals and trade-ins of consumer goods, an official said Thursday.

At the same time, local governments conducting assessments regarding this move and will take into account their actual financial situation to provide certain funds, said Zhao Chenxin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, at a press conference.

Last month, the State Council released an action plan to promote the large-scale renewal of equipment and the trading-in of consumer goods.

Annual investment demand in China's equipment upgrades in key industrial and farm sectors exceeds 5 trillion yuan (about 704.5 billion U.S. dollars), and demand for the replacement of automobiles and household appliances is above 1 trillion yuan, Zhao said.

This market space is very huge, he said, adding that the action plan will not only boost consumption and investment but also promote energy conservation and high-quality development.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
With roots dating back over a century, the relationship between Azerbaijan and Italy has stood the test of time and evolved into a multidimensional strategic partnership. Even during the People's Republic era, Italy played a crucial role, holding the mandate for Azerbaijan. Following Azerbaijan's regaining state independence, the economic and political ties between the two nations continued to improve.

A significant milestone in this enduring partnership was marked on February 20, 2020, when President Ilham Aliyev visited Italy, underscoring the high level of relations between the two countries. During this visit, the Joint Declaration on Strengthening the Multidimensional Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Italy was signed in Rome. This declaration paved the way for enhanced cooperation not only in the oil and gas sector but also across various facets of the economy, encouraging Italian investments in Azerbaijan's industry, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, transport logistics, and more.

Delegations of Foreign Ministries discuss strategic partnership

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic have held another round of political consultations in Rome, Italy.

The delegations were led by Azerbaijans Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fariz Rzayev, and Italian Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Edmondo Cirielli.

During the meeting, the sides explored multidimensional strategic partnership between the two countries based on traditional friendship and mutual trust and its strengthening, as well as the possibilities of solidifying relations in the political, trade-economic, energy, defence and security, transport, logistics, and humanitarian domains.

Both parties emphasized the importance of continuing high-level reciprocal visits, as well as holding the Strategic Dialogue and the next meetings of the Intergovernmental Commission for reinforcing the partnership.

The discussions also revolved around mutual interest on international and regional agenda, as well as expanding cooperation in multilateral formats.

The Italian delegation was briefed on the preparations for COP29, slated to take place in Azerbaijan this November, and the associated tasks. Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister provided an overview of the regional landscape, highlighting Azerbaijan's endeavors toward fostering lasting peace in the region, addressing the challenges posed by landmines and the ongoing restoration and reconstruction projects in the liberated territories. Discussions also focused on potential areas of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy in addressing these issues.

The parties underscored the importance of cultural, scientific, and educational exchanges between the two nations, particularly those within the framework of the Italy-Azerbaijan University in Baku.

During the visit, Fariz Rzayev also met with other Italian officials, and delivered a speech at the events arranged at prestigious think tanks in Rome.

Italy, Azerbaijan economic partnership

Italy currently stands as one of Azerbaijan's main trade partners, with a mutual trade turnover exceeding 15 billion US dollars. It has been a partner since 2020, and last year, according to the statistics of the State Customs Committee, products worth 15 billion 208 million dollars were exported from Azerbaijan to Italy. Besides, products worth $477 mln and 903 thousand were imported from Italy to Azerbaijan.

While the oil and gas sector has traditionally dominated economic relations, recent years have witnessed a diversification of cooperation into the non-oil sector. A total of 114 Italian companies operate in various sectors in Azerbaijan, including industry, construction, trade, agriculture, communication, and services.

Oil and gas firms, as well as non-oil companies, are active players in the Italian market. They are contractors on 277 projects totaling 9.9 billion dollars in the oil and gas industry, while they are involved in 37 projects totaling 708 million dollars in the non-oil industry.

Italy's large share in Azerbaijan's energy

Italy's position in Azerbaijan's energy environment is particularly significant concerning the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) project. At the border between Greece and Turkey, TAP joins TANAP directly to transmit natural gas to southern Italy via the Adriatic Sea, Greece, and Albania. About 10 billion cubic metres of natural gas were delivered to Italy via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) in 2023. Additionally, the consortium stated that TAP will be able to supply an additional 1.2 billion cubic metres of gas annually starting in 2026.

Natural gas from the massive Shah Deniz field in the Caspian Sea's Azerbaijani region is transported to Europe by TAP. The 878 km pipeline spans the Adriatic Sea, Greece, Albania, and Southern Italy before connecting with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Turkish-Greek border near Kipoi.
This article was originally published in Kentucky Lantern.

More than 250 Kentucky child care providers responsible for 150,000 children across the state sent lawmakers a letter Tuesday pleading for more support, saying whats been proposed in the state budget is not enough as their industry is at risk of collapse.

The letter asks lawmakers to pass a supplemental lifeline funding bill in the final days of the 2024 legislative session Friday and Monday.

Such support, the providers said, should at a minimum:

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Provide routine, direct sustainability payments to child care providers to help keep doors open, stem tuition hikes and prevent wage cuts. Maintain Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) eligibility at 85% of state median income to prevent thousands of parents from losing access to this aid, which could result in many dropping out of the workforce and withdrawing kids from child care. The current version of the budget hold eligibility at 80%. Provide enrollment-based CCAP reimbursements to providers.

Without these crucial supports, there is no chance of survival for many of our child care centers and home-based care providers, the letter states. Families will be left with even fewer options that are more expensive, quality will suffer, and many will decide it is better to leave the workforce.

Kentuckys child care industry  which some would like to rebrand under an early childhood education umbrella  is about to lose the federal COVID-19 dollars that helped stabilize the industry during the last few years. This leaves many centers to cut pay for their workers, raise tuition for parents, cut services and even close, the Lantern has reported.

The budget that the legislature passed includes $42 million in new spending on child care in 2025 and $50 million in 2026. That includes $1.3 million a year to cover the cost of background checks for potential employees and $1.5 million a year to add a six-month adjustment period for families who are no longer eligible for CCAP.

The Kentucky Center for Economic Policy previously estimated that $300 million is needed to replace the federal aid thats ending. The state Department for Community Based Services says the need is closer to $100 million.

In its analysis of the legislatures budget, the center says: While all of the policies the budget funds are necessary to support child care providers and the parents they serve, more is needed in light of the coming fiscal cliff, particularly with the loss of quarterly stipends to child care providers previously funded with federal dollars.

The largest legislative proposal for child care this year, the Horizons Act, died. Its sponsor cited its $300 million price tag as the main reason behind the demise.

Lawmakers return to Frankfort on Friday and Monday for the last two days of the 2024 session, during which they could pass additional legislation. But they must send Gov. Andy Beshear veto-proof bills at that point, since they will no longer have the ability to override him.

An investment in child care is an investment in the commonwealths present and future, the child care letter states. The Kentucky General Assembly should step up and make that investment now, before you gavel out on April 15. We cannot hold on until the next budget.

Letter to lawmakers from child care providers

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Kentucky Lantern is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Kentucky Lantern maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jamie Lucke for questions: info@kentuckylantern.com. Follow Kentucky Lantern on Facebook and Twitter.
How Kentucky Democrats got a few bills  7, in all  across the finish line this session

FRANKFORT  There are many ways to kill a bill, and just one way to get it into law.

In other words, a bill before the Kentucky legislature is much more likely to die than to get passed. Disagreement, indifference or even just the ticking clock can kill a bill, while a confluence of favorable factors must line up in both the House and Senate to get a bill passed.

Lawmakers reconvened Friday for two final days of the legislative session. They are likely to override bills vetoed by Gov. Andy Beshear over the last two weeks, as well pass a few last-minute bills.

But most of the legislative work is over for this session. This year, lawmakers proposed over 1,200 bills. Of those, fewer than 200 have so far gotten final approval from both the House and Senate.

That relatively low chance of success didnt stop lawmakers from both parties from proposing bills aplenty.

Renegade Republican Sen. Adrienne Southworth, R-Lawrenceburg, led the pack, sponsoring a whopping 53 bills. Democratic Sen. David Yates of Louisville was next in the rankings, with 23 bills sponsored.

Sen. David Yates, D-Louisville, speaks about the Crisis Aversion and Rights Retention bill at the Capitol. The bill focuses on reducing gun violence. Jan. 25, 2024

Over in the House, budget chairman Rep. Jason Petrie, R-Elkton, sponsored 21 bills  many of them budget bills  and his colleague, Rep. Kim Moser, R-Taylor Mill, sponsored 20.

But sponsoring lots of bills doesnt necessarily maximize a lawmakers chances of getting a bill passed.

Often, whats more important than how many bills you have is who you are and how much power you wield.

Case in point? Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, served as the main sponsor for only one bill, the aptly titled Senate Bill 1, which passed unanimously. The bill, which has now been signed by Beshear, will create an endowed research fund for Kentuckys public universities.

Its even more unlikely that you'll get a bill passed if you are a Democratic lawmaker in the Republican-controlled legislature.

So far this year, Democrats have managed to get seven bills across the finish line  less than 4% of all bills passed.

"What it says to me is that partisanship is alive, and it works sort of the way we expect it to," said Joel Turner, a professor of political science at Western Kentucky University. "(Republicans) have such an overwhelming majority of seats, and so Republicans can basically do what they want to do."

Keys to success include focusing on an issue likely to get bipartisan support and being able to shake off disagreements with Republican lawmakers, Democrats told The Courier Journal.

Crime bills divide  but they can also unite

This year, despite high profile and divisive debates about a sweeping criminal justice reform bill called the Safer Kentucky Act, Democratic bills focused on crime victims rights drew bipartisan consensus.

Three of the seven Democratic bills passed focused on helping crime victims. Those were sponsored by Rep. Keturah Herron, Sen. Denise Harper Angel and Yates, all of Louisville.

Herrons bill specifies that Kentucky law enforcement agencies can contract with retired officers to conduct cold case investigations. Harper Angels bill expands the states crime victim compensation program. Yates bill sets up the Ashanti Alert system in Kentucky to help find missing adults.

State Rep. Keturah Herron, right, laughs with state Sen. Gerald Neal during a discussion about of the 1964 March on Frankfort as part of the Frazier History Museum's Bridging the Divide Series in Louisville, Ky. on Feb. 22, 2024. The march featured speakers such as the Martin Luther King Jr. and Jackie Robinson.

Herron said framing her bill as a victims rights measure and support from cosponsor Rep. John Blanton, R-Salyersville, a retired state police major, were both key to getting her bill passed.

Support from law enforcement and crime victims was also key to Harper Angel and Yates success, they said.

"Some of the police detectives who really cared a whole lot about this, I think, helped get it across the finish line, Yates said, while Harper Angel pointed to "collaboration with advocates, survivors and colleagues."

Herron also said lawmakers of any party need strong relationships with fellow lawmakers. One way shes cultivated those is by serving on a lot of committees.

Yates said he proposed a similar bill last year that failed to get traction, so he used the legislative off-season to lobby for his bill with both House and Senate members. He also tries to help other lawmakers make their bills better, which has helped him "build a little bit of respect and camaraderie."

The success of the Democratic-sponsored crime bills is not surprising to Turner, the political scientist. The seven Democratic bills are "largely just examples of where Democrats ... are willing to work with Republicans on things that Republicans wanted to do."

A 'shake it off' attitude

Legislative debates, whether in committee or on the House or Senate floor, often get heated. Time is short, and the stakes are high.

But Democratic lawmakers said they try to adopt a shake it off attitude when it comes to those moments.

Herron said she is always aware that she represents not just her own district, but also the communities of Black, female and LGBTQ Kentuckians  as well as the whole state.

I dont have the privilege to hold that grudge or say I cant work with someone  because of the way they voted on something or what they said about something, Herron said. I try to go in everyday and work on topics on which there is synergy.

Yates reiterated that: We pass some bad bills and, I mean, there's a sickness in my stomach  I've got to be able to recover, shake the last one off and move forward because that's what (constituents) elected me to do.

He put that strategy to use this session: One of Yates' signature bills, which would add exceptions to Kentucky's near-total abortion ban, failed to get a Senate committee assignment this session, an apparent violation of procedural rules.

But Yates waited until after his Ashanti Alert bill got final passage near the very end of session before launching a protest about the failure of his abortion-exceptions bill to get a committee assignment.

Shut out?

Democratic lawmakers emphasized they often find areas of agreement with their Republican counterparts.

We definitely disagree about a lot of things. We have more things in common, and we agree on more things than people might realize, said Louisville Democrat Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong, who got her first bill passed this year. SB 240 will allow foster care parents who telework to get child-care benefits.

Kentucky Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong, left, confers with Sen. Reginald Thomas during Senate proceedings on March 16, 2023.

But that doesnt mean that everyones happy with how the Republican supermajority governs.

There are a few people who are centralizing power in Frankfort, and they're pushing through their own agenda while ignoring other good ideas that could be really helpful to Kentucky, and I think that that is a failure of leadership on the majority party side, said Rep. Rachel Roberts, D-Newport.

Roberts said being shut out of policy-making because she is a Democrat has contributed to her decision not to run for re-election. She said she thinks she has done good work in Frankfort, but that she wants to explore other ways to help Kentuckians since its so hard to get bills passed.

However, Republican leaders deny they are deliberately shutting out Democrats.

The Senate Majority Caucus is a policy-driven caucus that has and will continue to support sound public policy proposals, despite which chamber or respective party brings the proposal forward, said Senate majority spokesperson Angela Billings in a statement.

Billings said the current party make-up of the legislature was determined by voters and that the conservative policy and fiscal responsibility we have embraced since 2017 reflect the desires of our constituency.

And the fact that Democrats got seven bills passed this session represents some degree of courtesy to the minority party, said University of Kentucky political scientist Stephen Voss.

"There's no plagiarism in legislating," Voss said, pointing out that there's nothing to stop Republican lawmakers from taking up Democratic ideas and repackaging them as majority-party bills. "Allowing a Democrat ... to be the lead or sponsor and move the bill forward still represents something of a courtesy."

Why sponsor a bill at all?

There are many reasons lawmakers sponsor bills  even if they know the bills will not get passed, Democrats told The Courier Journal.

"It's really important to put out bills as a way to show the public what alternate policies would look like, to sort of say, 'these are values that we could express through policymaking,'" Armstrong said. She said proposing unlikely bills can start the process of building support for a policy.

That's something Herron hopes will happen with a bill that she's proposed three times that has never gotten traction. It would create an Office of Safer Communities to develop strategies for reducing violence. The fact that the measure has never advanced beyond a committee is unlikely to stop Herron, who is running for state Senate this November, from proposing the bill again next year.

And there's no harm done at the ballot box if a lawmaker proposes a lot of bills that don't move ahead, said Voss, the political scientist.

"For the most part, voters don't care about their legislator's batting average," Voss said, though if voters like a policy, that could contribute to positive perceptions of the lawmaker.

Turner, the Western Kentucky University political scientist, agreed. He said voters are far more interested in the outcomes of the legislative process  and the impact on their daily lives  than whether a lawmaker sponsors a particular piece of legislation.

Democratic bills passed this session

Reach Rebecca Grapevine at rgrapevine@courier-journal.com or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @RebGrapevine.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: The bills Kentucky Democrats got passed this legislative session.
Kentucky man charged in connection with alleged $1 million theft from his employer

A Kentucky man who allegedly set up a shell company to receive money he stole from his employer has been indicted in federal court.

Kenneth Ray Moore, of Bowling Green, faces a total of 10 charges of wire fraud, money laundering and tax evasion.

Moore, 55, stole more than $1.1 million from his employer between October 2009 and May 2020, an indictment returned charges.

The indictment returned Wednesday says Moore set up a company called KBM Solutions in 2009 and caused his employer to issue checks to the business.

KBM Solutions was listed as a vendor to the company Moore worked for, but it didnt provide any products or services.

Rather, it was a fraudulent company whose main purpose was to receive money Moore embezzled, according to the indictment.

Moore used the money he stole for personal expenses, including to pay credit card debt and put money in his checking and savings accounts, the indictment says.

The indictment did not disclose the name of the company where Moore worked or what his role was there.

Federal authorities said in a news release that Moore faces up to 140 years in prison if convicted.

However, the sentence would likely be far less than that under advisory sentencing guidelines.
By Tom Balmforth

KHARKIV, Ukraine (Reuters) -Kateryna Velnychuk was having an afternoon nap when an explosion shattered the windows of her ground-floor flat, spraying shrapnel that tore holes through her walls and cupboards.

A Russian guided bomb had exploded in the courtyard outside the five-storey Soviet-era building, killing a postman on his rounds. As her flat filled with thick, milky smoke, the 22-year-old turned to see blood pouring from her boyfriend Vladyslav's head.

As weve been livingin a state of war, there was no sense of fear in the moment, Velnychuk said. You just understand there was an explosion. The only thought in your head is I hope we survive.

As Russia has intensified its air campaign against Ukraine in the last month, hammering its energy infrastructure and urban areas, no major city has been harder hit than Kharkiv.

Just 30 km (18 miles) from the Russian border in northeast Ukraine, Kharkiv was already the most exposed to missile attacks and bombardment.

But the drying up of Western military support in recent months  as a vital U.S. military aid package has been stuck in Congress amid Republican resistance  has left Kharkiv even more dangerously unprotected.

"We have a catastrophic shortage of air defence systems," Governor Oleh Synehubov told Reuters, standing in the citys vast central plaza, Freedom Square. "Not only in the Kharkiv region, but throughout the entire country. Especially in the Kharkiv region."

The city is so near the border that Russian missiles can reach their target in less than a minute. The deployment of Ukraines precious air defences, such as the U.S.-made Patriot surface-to-air missile systems, which are high-value targets for Russian airstrikes, has to be done more cautiously so close to enemy lines, officials say.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who has urgently appealed for more air defence supplies from the West, said this week that almost a quarter of Kharkiv had been destroyed.

He accused Russia of seeking to reduce the city - which was home to 2 million people before the war - to rubble, clearing the way for its troops to advance. He said Ukraine's military would repel any such offensive.

The bombardments come as the momentum on the battlefield has shifted in Russia's favour, more than two years since it launched its Feb. 2022 invasion.

Russia denies targeting civilians and says Ukraines energy system is a legitimate military target. The Russian defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment for this story.

Reuters interviewed 15 civilians in Kharkiv who expressed their determination to stay in their homes despite the attacks - though two of them flagged the bleak situation on the power front as a real concern.

At least 10 missiles rained down on Kharkiv on Thursday, triggering emergency blackouts for 200,000 people in the surrounding region, as Russia launched its third major air attack on energy infrastructure across Ukraine in recent weeks.

The region's top prosecutor Oleksandr Filchakov told Reuters that all of the Kharkiv region's power facilities have been damaged or destroyed since Russia renewed its aerial assault last month, causing large-scale power cuts.

Russia had test-fired a new kind of aircraft-launched guided bomb at least six times as of Tuesday, he said, like the one that struck the courtyard outside Velnychuk's home.

The weapon, which Filchakov called a unified multi-purpose guided munition, weighs just 250 kilogrammes (550 pounds) and has a range of 90 km (56 miles), meaning aircraft have no need to risk getting close to the citys defences.

While the guided bombs are less accurate and destructive than other missiles used by Russia, such as S-300s and Iskanders, they are much cheaper for Russia to produce, he said.

"The (attacks) are mainly aimed at intimidating the civilian population," Filchakov told Reuters in his offices. "They're trying to make people leave the city, leave their buildings, homes, apartments...To sow panic in the city."

Strikes and shelling have killed 97 civilians in the region this year, he said, adding that nearly all the recent attacks had hit civilian targets.

Velnychuk was shaken but suffered no major injuries from the guided bomb that landed outside her building on March 27, blowing out all the windows along two rows of the red-brick residential buildings. But both she and her partner, who works as a courier, said they had no plans to leave the city.

"I always imagined I would grow up and have some kind of life, move from the village to the city, study. Now I live and ... I don't even know if I'll wake up tomorrow morning," said Velynchuk, a hairdresser.

"But, at the same time, you want to live in your own home. It's normal to want to live where you were born."

RUSSIA GAINS MOMENTUM

After months of attritional fighting, Russia is slowly advancing in Ukraine's eastern region of Donetsk this year. Kyiv's forces find themselves on the back foot, facing shortages of artillery shells and air defences, and grappling with manpower problems.

Ukraine's parliament passed legislation on Thursday to overhaul how the armed forces draft civilians into the ranks, in an effort to bolster the frontlines. The final law, however, excluded clauses on draconian penalties for draft dodging that had caused public outcry.

Much would depend on how well the new law  expected to take effect in mid-May - was implemented, analysts said.

"There are two issues now: the ammunition issue and the manpower issue. If they address them, I think Ukraine can hold back Russian advances," said Rob Lee, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, a think tank in Philadelphia.

But if they don't get addressed, there is a potential that Russia will make greater gains this summer."

Ukraine has tried to find a pressure point against Russia by bombing oil facilities far behind the front lines using long-range drones that have taken out 14% of energy giant Russia's oil refining capacity, according to Reuters calculations.

Zelenskiy, who inspected Ukrainian defensive fortifications in the Kharkiv region on Tuesday, has said Russia may be preparing a big offensive in late May or in June. He did not say where.

Russia, which captured the eastern town of Avdiivka in February and controls 18% of Ukrainian territory, has inched forward in the Donetsk region, keeping up pressure on the fronts west of Avdiivka and the city of Bakhmut.

Lee said Russia had fixed its own manpower problems and managed to recruit a large number of volunteers, allowing it to sustain losses in assaults, but that it faced equipment limitations that could become a problem next year.

Russia's decision on where to attack, he said, would in part depend on where it thought Ukraine looked weakest, although Moscow would likely maintain its focus on the eastern Donbas region.

Putin said last month he did not rule out Russia trying to establish a buffer zone inside Ukrainian territory along the Russian border.

Oleksandr Kovalenko, an independent military analyst based in Odesa, said the strikes on Kharkiv looked aimed at setting in motion such a plan by trying to scare people to leave the city, laying the ground for a possible ground operation at a later date.

"For the moment, Russia does not have the forces and equipment to seize the city, but in the medium term they can terrorise the civilian population to prepare the corresponding conditions."

'HOW COULD I LEAVE?'

Kharkiv, an industrial hub that once served as the capital of Soviet Ukraine, is a jarring contrast of 1.3 million people going about their lives amid regular air raid sirens and the sound of machine guns downing drones at night.

Schools in the city have been closed because of the threat of attacks and children study online. But authorities have opened underground classrooms in a metro station to allow some pupils to come to classes in person.

The citys population plunged to 300,000 after the invasion but, after Ukraine recaptured occupied areas of the region in two military offensives in 2022, it returned to around 1.3 million, where it has remained since.

Viktoria Zaremba, 37, a web designer and mother of a 10-year-old boy, said more than two years of war had changed her perception of risk.

"There is no fear," she said. She would only consider leaving Kharkiv if there were no central heating or electricity this winter, or a looming threat of occupation.

The number of attacks on the city and region began increasing in October, Filchakov said, rising more than 35% in the first three months this year to 130 from 95 in the last quarter of 2023.

They have intensified again this month, he said.

Rolling blackouts last up to 12 hours a day and the traffic lights don't work. Mobile coverage is patchy, online GPS maps don't function properly, and the street lights stay off at night.

But Synehubov, the regional governor, said there was no sign people were abandoning the city.

"I'll never leave," said Borys Nosov, 63, a pensioner walking his dog in the city centre. Nosov said he was a veteran of the 1979-1989 Soviet-Afghan war.

"This is my city. How could I leave and abandon it? I served in Afghanistan. That was terrifying. I think everything will be okay."

(Reporting by Tom Balmforth; additional reporting by Vitalii Hnidyi; editing by Daniel Flynn)
Kiev Mayor Klitschko: 'This is not war. This is terrorism'

Kiev's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has urgently requested further arms supplies from Ukraine's allies to stave off intensified Russian attacks on the country.

"This is a war of resources, and that's why we need support from our partners," said Klitschko on Thursday evening on a programme by German public broadcaster ZDF. Ukraine urgently needs more air defence systems, he said.

"We don't have enough," Klitschko said. There are attacks every day and the Russians are ruining the infrastructure. "This is not war, this is terrorism."

Russian President Vladimir Putin has started to burn the country so that people can no longer live there because life is impossible without electricity and water, Klitschko said.

Ukraine, Klitschko stressed, is also fighting for its allies.

"We are defending each and every one of you," the mayor said. In Kiev alone, where more air defence systems are deployed than anywhere else in the country, more than 800 buildings have been destroyed and more than 200 civilians have been killed, he said.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had also urged further Western weapons to fend off Russian airstrikes.

In the past few days, Russian missile attacks have destroyed several thermal power stations and once again damaged numerous facilities and power lines in Ukraine.

The eastern Ukrainian region of Kharkiv near the Russian border is currently seeing particularly heavy Russian bombardment.

Klitschko said he does not currently see any chance of negotiations between Ukraine and the Russian aggressor. He said that Russia was trying to force his country to come to the table and make compromises "through its muscle-flexing."

Diplomatic solutions are currently not possible, Klitschko said. At the moment, the only option is to remain on the front line and stay politically strong, according to the mayor.

All that was currently left to do for Ukrainians was to defend their country, before talks could happen. "We don't see any compromises."
KITTERY, Maine  The Town of Kittery invites the public to celebrate the naming and launch of the Harbormaster vessel, in honor of Hazel Sinclair. The event will take place on April 25, at 4:15 p.m. at the Safe Harbor Marina, 48 Bowen Road in Kittery Point. The event will include a short speaking program, followed by the official naming of the vessel and its launch into the water. Limited parking for the event will be available on-site, in addition to street parking.

Kittery Harbormaster boat

Hazel Sinclair, along with her husband Clayton opened their home as a guest house called Rock Rest in 1946. Rock Rest offered a rare place of comfort where Black travelers could feel welcome while traveling through Maine during the late 1940s through the 1970s. Rock Rest operated in an era when it was common practice to prohibit Black travelers from staying in hotels, being served in restaurants, or otherwise accessing public accommodations in the Seacoast area.

Clayton and Hazel Sinclair in an undated photo courtesy of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire.

The Harbormaster provides marine law enforcement, rescue, and education services to boaters within the tidal waters of Kittery. With an extensive working waterfront that includes not only boat and ship traffic, but also a vibrant mix of commercial operations and recreational destinations on the wharves and piers, the Harbormaster frequently responds to emergency situations.

With the naming of the Harbormaster vessel, Hazels legacy of providing steadfast protection and comfort on land will now continue into Kitterys waterways.

To learn more about the event, please visit the Town of Kittery website at www.kitteryme.gov/boatnaming.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Kittery Harbormaster boat naming celebration to honor Hazel Sinclair
Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and Secretary of State Scott Schwab are divided over whether a state law requiring the disposal of old ballots should apply during a criminal investigation, a dispute centered on Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Haydens long-running elections probe.

Kobach, who has built a reputation as a staunch opponent of voter fraud, has staked out a position that ballots that may be evidence should be preserved. Schwab, who oversees the states elections, maintains that absent a court order, Kansas law provides no authority for election officials to hang on to old ballots after their mandated destruction date.

Last year, Hayden pushed Johnson County Election Commissioner Fred Sherman to continue preserving the countys old ballots as the sheriff probes an election software company the county once used to manage poll workers.

While acquiescing to past requests, this time Sherman destroyed the old ballots in February in compliance with state law.

Schwab has backed the decision by Sherman, which came after Schwab reminded election officials across the state of their duty to destroy old ballots. In an April 5 letter to Kobachs office, Deputy Secretary of State Clay Barker, who is also the agencys general counsel, wrote that absent a judicial directive  such as a warrant or injunction  the mandatory ballot destruction must occur.

The Star obtained the letter through a records request. While Barker made no direct mention of Hayden, the letter appears squarely aimed at the investigation. Judicial intervention, Barker wrote, ensures law enforcement does not use an interminable investigation for partisan political reasons.

The party seeking a stay of destruction should justify to a court the need to prolong the retention of old ballots, Barker wrote. Unchecked politicized action, especially if it becomes the subject of repeated public comments, undermines public confidence in both law enforcement and the election process.

Deputy Kansas Secretary of State Clay Barker, right, during a meeting of the state Board of Canvassers.

Kobach and Schwabs diverging positions date back to December when Kobach sent a letter to Sherman urging him to hold on to the ballots, writing that evidence should be retained until the case is formally closed and all resulting defendants are prosecuted.

As you may be aware, the Johnson County Sheriffs Office is investigating potential crimes relating to the election process in your county. As the states chief law enforcement officer, I am concerned that the destruction of these ballots and other election related materials may hinder that investigation, Kobach wrote to Sherman.

At the request of a state senator, Kobach is now developing a formal legal opinion on the matter. Johnson County officials fear the legal opinion will be used to advance a criminal prosecution of Sherman. Hayden, who is running for reelection, has criticized the countys election practices, but his investigation hasnt led to any criminal charges.

An opinion that Sherman should have preserved the ballots could potentially give the sheriff a basis to investigate.

Kansas Secretary of State's Office Letter by The Kansas City Star on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Most Johnson County officials appear to support Sherman, who was appointed to the job by Schwab.

Fred Sherman acted in direction from the Kansas Secretary of States Office. He didnt act on his own. And he was in line with state law, Johnson County Commissioner Becky Fast said this week.

Johnson County Election Commissioner Fred Sherman.

The dispute between the two statewide Republican officials comes as every state legislative seat is on the ballot this fall, with several key battleground districts located in Johnson County.

How to interpret the ballot destruction law isnt the first election-related dispute between Kobach and Schwab. The two GOP officials have differing views on remote ballot drop boxes, with Schwab supportive of their use as a way to keep ballots out of the mail and Kobach fearing they facilitate ballot harvesting, where one person returns numerous ballots from others.

Schwab strongly vouched for the security of Kansas elections. Still, false conspiracy theories surrounding Johnson Countys elections have taken root, fueled in part by Haydens investigation, which he has promoted repeatedly in front of conservative audiences.

Haydens investigation appears centered on Konnech, an election software company that has called the investigation baseless.

Los Angeles County has agreed to pay $5 million to Konnech CEO Eugene Yu, who sued over civil rights violations after he was arrested there in 2022 on accusations that he illegally stored poll worker data in China. The case was dropped a few weeks later, with the district attorney citing potential bias in the investigation.

Johnson County had used Konnechs software to help manage election workers; the program had nothing to do with voting or voting information. The county stopped using the software in 2022.

The Stars Sarah Ritter contributed reporting
As Switzerland proposes to organize a peace summit to find a solution to the war in Ukraine, Moscow is now resurrecting an old solution - garnished with further demands.

The Kremlin sees an agreement between Russia and Ukraine on a peace settlement that was negotiated shortly after the start of the war in 2022 but ultimately failed as a possible basis for a new solution.

The agreement, negotiated in Istanbul at the time, could serve as the basis for new negotiations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Interfax news agency on Friday.

"New territories are now enshrined in our constitution, which was not the case two years ago," Peskov added.

The comments were prompted by the Swiss proposal for a peace conference, which is initially intended to mobilize more international support for Ukraine.

Discussions with Moscow are only to take place as a second step, which Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized.

At a meeting with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday, the Russian news agency Interfax reported that Putin said it is clear that nothing can be decided without Moscow.

In late March 2022, about a month after Putin ordered the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, negotiators from Ukraine and Russia reached a provisional agreement during talks in Istanbul to halt hostilities as it became apparent that Moscow's planned capture of Kiev would fail.

It later emerged that Ukraine had initially agreed to forego NATO membership and remain neutral. However, the agreement was not implemented, partly due to disagreements over territorial claims.

Russia initiated the war under the pretext of "liberating" the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, partly controlled by pro-Russian separatists, from Kiev's control.

Russia has since declared these two regions, as well as the territories of Kherson and Zaporizhzhya, as its own territory in the constitution, despite only partially controlling them militarily.

The failure is also attributed to the revelation of atrocities committed by Russian soldiers against Ukrainian civilians in Kiev suburbs like Bucha. This made reconciliation impossible for Ukraine.

Russia's stated terms include the retention of territorial conquests as well as Ukraine becoming a demilitarized, neutral country that does not become a member of NATO.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is calling for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory.

Peskov declined to elaborate on Moscow's territorial claims, stating it was too early for details of "theoretical negotiations." There are still no signs that Ukraine is willing to talk, he added.

Meanwhile, on Friday officials said that both warring parties have exchanged the bodies of more than 120 dead soldiers.

Ukraine had received 99 dead soldiers back, the office responsible for prisoners of war in Kiev said via Telegram on Friday.

It said that 77 of them were killed in the Donetsk region, 20 in the Zaporizhzhya region and two in the Kharkiv region.

Russia, for its part, received 23 soldiers' bodies, the Russian news site RBK reported, citing Duma deputy Shamsail Saraliev.

Exact casualty figures among military personnel have generally been kept secret by both sides. But last month, Zelensky put his own side's losses at about 31,000 dead.

Western estimates put the death toll much higher.

US estimates from mid-2023 put the number of Ukrainian soldiers killed at around 70,000 and the number of Russian soldiers killed at 120,000.
BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council has released a guideline on strengthening regulation, forestalling risks and promoting the high-quality development of the capital market.

This is the third guideline document on the capital market from the State Council in two decades. The first two were issued in 2004 and 2014, respectively.

The country should build a secure, regulated, transparent, open, dynamic and resilient capital market, the guideline noted.

In this regard, efforts should focus on strengthening regulation, preventing risks and pushing forward high-quality development to fully harness the functions and roles of the capital market, promote the building of a country with a strong financial sector and serve the goal of advancing Chinese modernization.

The guideline demanded strict regulation on the entry into the capital market through securities issuance and listing, urging higher standards for listing on the main boards and the start-up board ChiNext.

The oversight on issuance and underwriting should be intensified, and illegal activities such as fraudulent issuance should be investigated strictly, it said.

It urged rigorous sustained oversight on listed firms, noting that authorities should crack down on illegal shareholding reduction and tighten regulation on cash dividend payment by listed firms.

The country vowed to strengthen regulation on delisting, adopt stricter standards for compulsory delisting, smooth diverse channels for delisting, and optimize investor compensation remedy mechanisms, according to the guideline.

Efforts will also go to tightening regulation on institutions like securities and fund management companies, and strengthening shareholder and business access management.

Work should be done to tighten supervision over high-frequency trading and other types of trading, and investigate and punish illegal activities such as market manipulation and malicious short-selling, according to the guideline.

It also demanded strengthening the reserves of strategic forces and the development of stabilizing mechanisms. The impacts of both major economic and non-economic policies on the capital market will be factored into policy orientation consistency evaluation, as part of efforts to enhance the intrinsic stability of the capital market, it said.

China will vigorously guide the entry of medium and long-term capital into the market, it stated.

Work will be done to develop public equity funds and optimize the policy environment for insurance-fund investment. Encouragement will also be given for capital from banks' wealth management products and trust funds to actively participate in the capital market.

The country will advance the registration-based initial public offering system for solid progress and make the market more inclusive to new industries, new business patterns and new technologies to foster new quality productive forces.

It is also imperative to strengthen the rule of law in the capital market and make intensified efforts to jointly crack down on securities and futures malpractice.

The guideline also stressed the importance of upholding and enhancing the leadership of the Communist Party of China, ensuring that the financial sector must always serve the public, and strengthening regulation in all respects and effectively preventing and defusing risks, among others.

"The guideline reflected a goal-oriented and problem-oriented approach," China Securities Regulatory Commission Chairman Wu Qing told Xinhua in an exclusive interview.

In particular, in view of the prominent problems such as those in institutions, mechanisms and regulations exposed by the stock market volatility since August last year, the guideline aimed to shore up weakness in response to investors' concerns and promote the resolution of deep-seated problems accumulated over the years, Wu added.

In the next five years, China expects to form a general framework to support the high-quality development of the capital market, according to the guideline.

By 2035, a capital market with high adaptability, competitiveness and inclusiveness will be basically established, it said. By the middle of the 21st century, the governance system and capabilities of the capital market will be further modernized, creating a high-quality capital market that matches China's status as a country with great financial strength.

Wu said the series of development goals is systematic, comprehensive and progressive, calling for adhering to market-oriented and law-based reform and turning the blueprint into reality.

"In the next step, we will study and formulate reform measures to promote the long-term development of the capital market on the basis of in-depth research," he said. 
MAGA Gov. Kristi Noem was banished from the Rosebud Indian Reservation in her own state of South Dakota on Thursday, the fourth Lakota tribe to bar her from its lands in recent months.

If she sets foot on any of the tribal land shes been banned from, she could face removal, detention, and arrest, Lakota Law Project Director Chase Iron Eyes told The Daily Beast.

The Rosebud Sioux Tribal Council issued the most recent ban over inflammatory statements Noem has madeincluding the claim that tribal leaders were operating with Mexican drug cartelsand her uninvited presence at a quarterly meeting between the tribes and the U.S. Forest Service in March. In a statement, the Rosebud Council cited years of hostility from Noems administration.

This banning is not based solely on recent allegations made against the Oceti Sakowin, Tribal Leaders, and Native American Students, but also from an ongoing strained relationship with Governor Noem since she took office in 2019, the council said.

In recent years, Noem has clashed with the tribes over her support of the Keystone XL pipeline, which cuts through land considered sacred by the Sioux; her removal of significant sections of Native American history from state educational standards; and her alleged withholding of millions of dollars in federal Emergency Rental Assistance funding from the tribes.

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem Is Now Banished From 10 Percent of Her Own State

In 2024, the Rosebud Council said, Noem began a slanderous campaign against the tribes that included the cartel collusion accusation in March. At the time, Rosebud Sioux Tribe President Scott Herman slammed Noems statements as malicious and defamatory and demanded her apology.

Now, the tribe says it will only acknowledge Noem if she apologizes and presents a plan of action for supporting the Lakota through policy and legislation.

Governor Noem claims she wants to establish meaningful relations with Tribes to provide solutions for systemic problems. However, her actions as Governor blatantly show otherwise, the Rosebud Council said in their statement. The council added that Noems recent racial disparaging allegations only hastened the deterioration between state-tribe relations.

Her disingenuous nature towards Native Americans to further her federal political ambitions is an attack on Tribal sovereignty that the Rosebud Sioux Tribe will not tolerate, they continued, indicating Noems status as a shortlisted VP option for Republican frontrunner Donald Trump.

Why These Two Republicans Are Trumps Most Likely VP Picks

Ian Fury, spokesman for the Republican governor, did not immediately respond to The Daily Beasts requests for comment. Days earlier, in response to the Standing Rock Sioux Tribes banishment of Noem, he doubled down on the governors claim about tribe-cartel cooperation.

Banishing Governor Noem does nothing to solve the problem. She calls on all our tribal leaders to banish the cartels from tribal lands, Fury said then.

The Rosebud Sioux Tribe joined the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe in banning the South Dakota governor.

Noem is now an illegal in 14 percent of land within her claimed state boundaries now that the Oglala, Cheyenne River, Standing Rock & Rosebud Sioux Tribal nations have banished her, Chase Iron Eyes, the Lakota Law Project director, said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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COALINGA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The man convicted of killing Kristin Smart has been attacked again inside Pleasant Valley State Prison.

According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), the attack on Paul Flores is being investigated as an attempted homicide.

DA: Coalinga inmate charged for attack on Paul Flores

Flores was behind bars to serve 25 years to life for the first-degree murder of Kristen Smart, who was a freshman at Cal Poly when she was reported missing in May 1996. Flores was arrested in 2021 following a 25-year investigation into the case. Flores was admitted into Pleasant Valley State Prison on March 30, 2023. Flores was previously attacked in August 2023 by a fellow inmate.

This most recent attack took place on Wednesday afternoon. Staff reported that Flores was stabbed by another incarcerated person in a recreation yard. Officers responded and recovered two inmate-manufactured weapons at the scene.

According to the CDCR, Flores sustained injuries during the incident and was transported to an outside medical facility. He has since returned to Pleasant Valley State Prison and his condition is described as fair. No other injuries were reported in the incident.

The person who attacked Flores has not been identified, but prison staff say the attacker has been placed in restricted housing as the investigation continues.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  27 News built a map with SeeClickFix reports going back through January. The reports show where pothole hotspots are in the city.

27 News compared the compiled SeeClickFix map from February 2024 to April 2024. The reports can represent a variety of issues, including potholes. Infrastructure Communications Specialist Amanda Knowland said the City of Topeka repaired 36,580 potholes in 2023. So far in 2024, the city has filled 27,299 potholes.

Meet the two finalists for Topeka City Manager

Some issues residents can report to the SeeClickFix map include:

Potholes.

Street repairs.

Street sign repairs.

Traffic signal repairs.

Hydrant leaking.

Alley issues.

Curb and gutter repair.

Downtown parking.

General feedback.

Homeless camp issues.

Police animal control.

and more

Green dots are acknowledged and still open tickets. Blue dots are closed tickets. Orange dots are marked as open tickets. Dots may represent a variety of issues.

Last year, the Capital City made a top 50 list from USA Today for cities dealing with the most pothole issues. The City of Topeka made an emergency declaration for the pothole issue in early 2024. Throughout the 11-day declaration, the city filled nearly 8,000 potholes, according to City spokeswoman Rosie Nichols.

Potholes are reported via SeeClickFix, by staff who spot them while driving, and via phone calls made to the city, Knowland said in January 2024. Our patch crew responds to fill potholes as reported. In the spring, there are generally more potholes reported than our crews can keep up with. When that happens, repairs are prioritized based on location and size of the pothole.

Elementary teacher dead in multiple-vehicle crash southwest of Topeka

You can do your part in helping keep the streets in good condition by making reports through the SeeClickFix app or by calling the City of Topeka at 785-368-3111. The SeeClickFix app is available for Android and iPhone users and lets you submit and track issues and access city information.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Ukraine is conducting "active negotiations" with its partners to receive two additional batteries of the Patriot air defense system and one long-range SAMP/T anti-aircraft missile battery, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said in an excerpt from an interview aired on April 12.

As Russia intensified its attacks on Ukraine during the spring, the shortage of air defense systems in Ukrainian cities and villages is being felt more as Russian attacks have caused an uptick in casualties.

According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia launched over 400 missiles of various types, 600 Shahed-type drones, and 3,000 guided aerial bombs at Ukraine in March, causing severe damage to infrastructure.

Kyiv has ramped up its calls on allies to provide Ukraine with more air defenses, in particular, with U.S.-made Patriot systems that can intercept ballistic missiles.

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According to Zelensky, Ukraine needs 25 Patriots to cover the country completely, but Kuleba said he is initially focused on securing seven. This would be enough to protect Ukraine's largest cities and leave at least one battery to be closer to the battlefield.

The decision to supply Patriot batteries is up to Washington, since it is a U.S.-made system, according to the minister.

"If the countries where they (the batteries of the systems) are located were ready to transfer them to us now, it would be a matter of a week, and we would receive them," Kuleba said.

Previously, he even offered countries to lend Patriots to Ukraine, promising to return the batteries as soon as needed.

After Kuleba stressed Ukraine's need for Patriots at the NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels on April 3-4, some of Kyiv's allies have pledged to look for air defense systems for Ukraine.

Read also: ISW: Thin air defenses may permit more Russian attacks on rear Ukrainian cities

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Kyiv City Council suspended the auction for the lease on the capital's Zhytniy Market for the second time, the council's press service reported on April 15.

The Soviet-era market was built in its striking modernist in 1980 on a site in the Podil neighborhood which had been used for trade since the times of Kyivan Rus.

Years of neglect have left the building in a poor state, with leaking ceilings and no central heating for the dozens of businesses selling everything from cheese to Ukrainian embroidered shirts.

The market was initially put up for a 15-year lease with rent starting at Hr 2.5 million ($67,000) per month on March 19, according to the National Electronic Exchange.

This decision was widely criticized due to the suspiciously short five-day bidding period that could have meant a predetermined winner and led to the wave of uproar online.

Celebrity chef and activist Yevhen Klopotenko said that the Zhytniy Market could meet the same fate as Kyiv's Sinnyi Market, which was demolished in 2005 despite protests.

The auction for the market was postponed on April 15, but it will not happen as well due to the public's reaction, concerned about the threat to the building's architectural and cultural heritage.

"Considering the resonance in Kyiv's community about Zhytniy Market's preservation and its intended purpose, we have decided not to conduct the auction now," Volodymyr Kostikov, head of Kyiv City Council's Industry and Business Development Department, said.

Kostikov added that the Kyiv City Council plans to develop new contest terms and requirements for the potential lessee in collaboration with local residents. "We need more time for it," he said.

According to Kostikov, making urgent major repairs and preserving the market remain the key lease conditions.

"The concept vision of the market's renaissance must be necessarily agreed with Kyivans," he said .

Read also: Kyiv at risk of losing iconic market to development

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LA County investigators seek help in solving murder of woman found dead on Hosking Rd offramp

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Authorities in Los Angeles are asking for information that can solve the murder of a woman whose body was found burning on a Bakersfield highway offramp in December 2022.

Karla Terron, 27, was stabbed to death and her body was found burning in the southbound Hosking Road offramp from Highway 99 at around 5 a.m. on Dec. 17, 2022. Little information about the case has been released since.

O.J. Simpson, ex-NFL star acquitted in trial of the century, dies: family

The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department said Thursday investigators are seeking information to identify any suspects involved in Terrons murder.

Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department poster

Karla Terron was found dead in Bakersfield in December 2022 / Photo: Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department

Terrons last known location was at a bar in the 100 block of North Hagar Street in San Fernando, officials said.

Anyone with information about Terrons murder is asked to call the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500 or call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
An unnamed female relative of the children has been arrested in connection to the attack

Gaynell Dounseroux /GoFundMe Avery Washington, left, Joseph Washington, Jr., center, and Jayla Washington, right

Joseph Washington, Sr. pleaded guilty to the first-degree murders of his children ages 3 to 8, who died in the October house fire he set following a domestic dispute with their mother

The childrens mother, who was not home, called 911 reporting Washingtons threat just moments before the house went up in flames

Washingtons girlfriend, Shanyka Phillips, has also been indicted in the case

The Louisiana father had just admitted in court to killing his three children by setting fire to his home after a domestic dispute, when a woman related to the children allegedly burst from the gallery, pummeling the man to the floor.

More relatives allegedly piled atop Joseph Washington, Sr. The Times Picayune reports.

Minutes later, when court deputies had disrupted the skirmish, recovering Washington from under the mound of fists, he resumed his guilty plea, which, per the online court record, took the death penalty off the table in exchange for a mandatory life sentence without chance of appeal.

Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office; WDSU news/youtube Joseph Washington, Sr., left, pleaded guilty to killing his three children in an October house fire.

Related: Louisiana Father Arrested After House Fire Kills His 3 Children: 'Tragic and Senseless'

Washington, 30, pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree murder and one count of obstruction of justice Thursday, April 11.

This case was as sad and as difficult as I've ever seen. Evil is real. It is not an abstraction, Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams said in a press conference broadcast live by WDSU, adding: I am deeply disturbed by the violent and wanton nature of Joseph Washington's acts.

Shortly before midnight October 17, the childrens mother called 911, saying Washington was threatening to burn down their home, per a New Orleans Police Department press release.

Hes screaming on the phone, the mother, who was not home at the time, told the dispatcher, per WVUE. I hear the kids screaming. Yall are just going to have to break through the door. Dont let anything happen, please.

A fire was reported moments later, per police, who said they arrived on scene to the small home engulfed in flames.

WDSU news/youtube Joseph Washington, Sr. set his house on fire October 17, 2023, killing his three young children inside.

Inside, firefighters recovered an 8-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl  still alive  near the front of the home, one just a few feet from the front door, per a New Orleans Fire Department press release

Further into the house, Avery Washington, 3, was found dead. The siblings  Joseph Washington, Jr. and Jayla Washington  were rushed to the hospital, but succumbed to their injuries about an hour later, per police.

The next day, Washingtons vehicle was found partially submerged in the Mississippi River, per police.

Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office Joseph Washington, Sr. in mug shot.

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Together, New Orleans officers and U.S. Marshals arrested Washington, when they found him later that day, running from another vehicle parked on an interstate overpass, and attempting to flee by jumping off.

The district attorney said at the Thursday press conference that Washingtons girlfriend, Shanyka Phillips, is now awaiting trial for charges related to aiding him in fleeing from law enforcement in the hours after he set the house ablaze.

In court Thursday, the childrens relatives saw Washington for the first time since the fire, homicide unit chief Matthew Derbes of the district attorneys office said at the press conference.

I know it was very chaotic, Derbes said, referencing the courtroom fisticuffs. But keep in mind what it must have been like for that family to see him for the first time. The person who had murdered their nephews, grandchildren, loved ones.

He added: I cannot imagine the pain and the trauma of just that moment, in addition to everything else.

No one involved in the brawl appeared seriously injured, The Times Picayune reports, adding that the unnamed woman was arrested and the other involved family members were thrown out of court.

This mother can know  this family can know  that this is the end of that chapter, the district attorney said of the court proceedings, noting that Washington was guaranteed to die behind bars. But as this particular chapter ends for this mother, she has many, many more difficult chapters to come.



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Read the original article on People.
The British state is costing more to deliver services less well. Radical change is desperately needed. How the system is reformed is one of few questions to which Sir Keir Starmer has an answer. He will methodically strip issues out of the political arena, and hand over decisions to unelected civil servants, quangos, and judges to create technocratic governance unimpeded by pesky debates between elected representatives.

For a preview of Starmers Britain, take a look at the ECHR case this week in which the Strasbourg Court ruled that Switzerland had violated human rights by not decarbonising quickly enough. What should be the preserve of democratic debate is now being absorbed by a legal-administrative elite accountable to no one.

At the heart of Labours plans is a second wave of quangos. Great British Energy will be set up and granted a remit to set energy policy. Education will see a new National Curriculum Authority, reinforced by Skills England.

Bureaucracy will balloon. Already the laundry list is endless: a single enforcement body for workers rights, nationwide Climate Export Hubs, an ironically-named Office for Value for Money. There is seemingly no challenge that Labour believes cannot be fixed with ever-more powerful arms-length bodies. Rachel Reeves intends to hard-wire growth with a new fiscal lock designed to give the OBR the final say on budgets set by the government. Decisions will not be made by elected politicians, but by these experts who subscribe to the economic orthodoxy. Whatever noises Starmer makes about lowering taxes for working people, their prescription will always be to raise taxes and grow the state.

Executive power is already seeping away from Ministers. Last October, when Steve Barclay, then Secretary of State for Health, ordered NHS Trusts to stop recruiting directly to dedicated EDI roles, the chair of NHS England appeared to reprimand him for daring to tell the NHS how to spend taxpayer money. What Labour propose means even less democratic oversight and accountability when, clearly, far more is needed. The NHS has failed to translate significant increases in doctor and nursing numbers, not to mention a 20 billion rise in health spending in real terms since before the pandemic, into more patients being treated.

Of course, Labour has nothing to fear from the quangos or officialdom that they wish to empower, because they are already ideologically aligned. They believe in racing at breakneck speed towards Net Zero, accept the supposed virtues of mass immigration without question, and recoil at our decision to leave the EU.

The proliferation of wokery through the civil service will spread. Labour will double-down on the Equality Act with a new Race Equality Act that will mandate ethnicity disparity reporting. Disparities in pay and referrals to disciplinary procedures may be used as definitive evidence of systemic discrimination in public bodies, warranting ever more EDI training classes and the employment of third party EDI consultancies, at the expense of the taxpayer and to the benefit of those who peddle divisive and false narratives about Britains inherent and unique racism and intolerance. As we saw with Labour-run Westminster Council this week, hiring practices risk pivoting from assessing merit to racial identity.

Starmer has even more radical plans for eroding Parliamentary sovereignty. Many of these were set out in Gordon Browns commission on renewing our democracy. The report suggests the creation of a new Assembly of the Nations and the Regions with powers to strike down legislation made in the Commons that does not adhere to a new Constitution full of positive rights. This act of constitutional vandalism would provide citizens with rights to every possible good thing regardless of practicality, with policymaking reduced to judicial reviews where judges and technocrats have final say.

It also includes a fresh round of devolution to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This is premised, as New Labours devolution plan was nearly thirty years ago, on the grounds it will act as an antidote to separatism and enable better public services. But on both counts this experiment has already failed spectacularly. As the SNP has trashed the once world-leading Scottish education system, Welsh Labour has driven the local NHS into the ground. Both devolved governments have taken the lead in foolish initiatives such as 20mph speed limits. The more power is handed away from Westminster, the more fractured our nation becomes.

Starmers proposals are a direct continuation of New Labours constitutional changes to Britain between 1997 and 2010. If Labour is allowed to rewire Britain, whichever government follows it will find their control of the system has been diminished even further. A vote for Keir Starmer is not a vote for change. It is a vote to give up control.

The Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP is a former immigration minister

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Peter Kyle wants to fix the issue of scientific real estate, which is in the midst of a severe supply issue - Heathcliff O'Malley for the Telegraph

Labour has vowed to rip up restrictive planning rules and build more laboratories despite Nimbys complaining that they can spoil views.

Scientific real estate, much like the housing market, is in the midst of a severe supply issue, with research being hamstrung by a dearth of lab space and other key infrastructure.

Peter Kyle, the shadow secretary for science, innovation and technology, said that excessive red tape was a huge barrier to the success of British science.

He vowed that should Labour win the next general election, he will reform planning regulations to make it easier for companies to access essential lab space for key research and development.

Labour will back our scientists and not the blockers of new labs, our planning reform will build the economy of the future, Mr Kyle said, speaking exclusively to The Telegraph in his Portcullis House corner office overlooking the Thames.

We have a desperate need for labs, we have a desperate need for computing power, and we have a desperate need for cloud computing infrastructure. All of those things are held back currently by the planning system.

Under Labour, if you are a company that needs lab space, computing power or cloud computing, you will have a government and you will have a secretary of state that is partnering with you to make sure you get it as swiftly as possible.

It comes as Labour is in the midst of a pro-housebuilding push to help it win a large majority and allow it to build on the green belt.

The party is reportedly prioritising dozens of seats where constituents have house building as a key issue to boost its election prospects, and Kyle hopes to use this public sentiment to also expand the scientific sector.

Mr Kyle is hoping to avoid debacles such as the blocking of a nationally important data centre being built near the M25 because it will ruin views from a footbridge over the countrys busiest motorway.

Mr Kyle said: 'Labour will back our scientists and not the blockers of new labs' - Heathcliff O'Malley for the Telegraph

Mr Kyle says that projects of importance that meet Labours four industrial missions  delivering clean power by 2030, harnessing data for the public good, caring for the future and building a more resilient economy  will be fast-tracked past planning blockades, irrespective of spoilt views or unaesthetic buildings.

Both Labour and the Conservatives want to convert the UKs world-leading research skills into economic output, and hope encouraging and facilitating a more entrepreneurial spirit among academics is the solution.

But it is difficult to make university spin-offs commercially viable and a lack of lab space is crippling ventures before they begin, as local councillors and residents thwart planning applications.

Statistics from the estate agents Bidwells show that there was an 850,000 sq ft shortfall in lab space last year, and rents have increased by more than a quarter in the past two years.

Meanwhile, British Land research shows there is 10 times as much lab space in the US city of Boston as there is Oxford, Cambridge and London combined.

Two thirds of people are supportive of a lab being built in their local area, according to a survey from the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE). Labs are as popular as new schools or wind farms, data show, as they bring in high-paid jobs and boost the economy.

Clear opportunity for all parties

Rebecca Hill, the advocacy and engagement manager at CaSE, said: The public not only support local R&D developments, but see them as an asset to their communities. There is a clear opportunity for politicians from all parties to build on that public appetite.

Mr Kyle is planning to cash in on this, and is focused on adding more than 72 billion to the Treasurys coffers by deploying digital technology throughout the economy.

Stability, he says, is the key to this because science is a slow process and therefore particularly vulnerable to the freneticism of modern politics. Instability, he says, has led to the Conservative regime failing to deliver on its promise of turning Britain into a science superpower, leaving scientists in the UK in a worse position than their European and global colleagues.

The UK left Europes flagship science programme, Horizon, in the wake of Brexit, only to rejoin last year as an associate member and for the Government to claim victory.

The UK is also only an associate member of Euratom and is no longer part of the Erasmus exchange programme, and scientists are being put off from working in the UK because of high visa costs and tough immigration laws.

We need a government that is looking to the 2030s and beyond, and seizing the opportunities that are coming towards us  not a government thats always looking backwards, trying to replace something which they carelessly lost, Mr Kyle said.

Michelle Donelan, the Science Secretary, was singled out for blame by Mr Kyle - Lucy North/PA

He lays the blame of the chaos and the ensuing scientific obstacles in the country at the feet of his counterpart, Michelle Donelan, the Science Secretary.

Ms Donelan recently used 15,000 of taxpayers money to settle a libel claim after accusing a British scientist of being a Hamas sympathiser.

Civil servants were working on the libellous letter, posted on Ms Donelans personal Twitter account, until midnight on a Friday night at her instruction.

Mr Kyle accused Ms Donelan of chasing a phantom menace instead of focusing on her remit, adding that dysfunction doesnt just generate headlines and the titillation of daily politics but has a profound impact on the economic health of our nation on the front line.

This merry-go-round of announcements, followed by underperformance, followed by cancellation, followed by new announcements, has got to stop.

Labour hopes that the NHS can be its standard-bearer for innovation, with a plan in place to remove the many layers of bureaucracy and siloism that has fostered a systemic inability to widely adopt technological improvements.

His close working relationship with Wes Streeting, the shadow health secretary, with whom he shares an office, culminated in the co-signing of Labours Life Sciences strategy, which vows to use the vast data of the health service to lead the world in clinical trials.

Mr Kyle hopes to fast-track deployment of technology nationwide to end postcode lotteries caused by individual trusts deciding what new technology and systems they will use.

The NHS has improved quite considerably when it comes to clinical trials, he said. The problem comes at the next step, which is as soon as that innovation has been proven.

The NHS is appalling at spreading that innovation throughout the NHS for all patients good.

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Lack of air defence systems leads to slow but steady Russian victories on battlefield  ISW

The ISW assesses that scattered and inconsistent air defence cover along the frontline has contributed to Russia's increased use of guided and unguided aerial bombs. Russian ground forces are taking advantage of their ability to conduct airstrikes against Ukrainian frontline positions to slowly but surely make gains.

Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW)

Details: Russian forces used aerial bombs for tactical effect during the capture of Avdiivka in mid-February.

Military analysts indicate that it appears that Russian forces are using this tactic again during their offensive operations near Chasiv Yar.

Russian strikes have forced Ukraine to make difficult decisions between providing air defence for large population centres in the rear and active areas on the frontline, and Russia appears to be using the degraded cover of Ukrainian air defence to try to disrupt Ukraine's energy grid and limit Ukraine's defence and industrial capabilities.

To quote ISW's Key Takeaways on 11 April:

Russian forces conducted another large-scale series of missile and drone strikes against Ukraine on the night of 10 to 11 April that caused notable and likely long-term damage to Ukraines energy infrastructure.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated that Ukraine needs more Patriot air defence batteries to protect both Ukraines population centres and frontline areas.

The Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) adopted a new mobilisation law on 11 April, a significant step in addressing Ukraines manpower challenges amid growing manpower constraints in Ukrainian units defending on the frontline.

US European Command (EUCOM) Commander and NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Christopher Cavoli reported that EUCOM and NATO are strengthening their ability to respond to the "chronic threat" that Russia poses to global stability and European security in hopes of deterring future Russian aggression against NATO.

Ukraine and Latvia signed a bilateral security agreement on 11 April providing for long-term Latvian assistance and security commitments to Ukraine.

Russian authorities conducted a counterterrorism operation and reportedly killed two suspected terrorists in the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria on 11 April.

Russian forces recently made confirmed advances near Kreminna, in the direction of Chasiv Yar west of Bakhmut, and in the Donetsk-Zaporizhzhia Oblast border area on 11 April.

Russian exiled opposition outlet Novaya Gazeta Europe reported on 11 April that Russian courts have commuted sentences in over half of all criminal cases against Russian veterans and active-duty servicemen due to military service in Ukraine.

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Participants attend the Summit of the Three Seas Initiative in Vilnius, Lithuania, on April 11, 2024. The Summit of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) was held here on Thursday, in a bid to improve transport links, diversify energy sources, and build resilient infrastructure. (Lithuanian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

VILNIUS, April 11 (Xinhua) -- The Summit of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) was held here on Thursday, in a bid to improve transport links, diversify energy sources, and build resilient infrastructure.

Chairing the plenary session of the ninth 3SI summit in Vilnius, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said that the 3SI could contribute greatly to the practical aspects of the European Union (EU) enlargement process.

"Thanks to the Three Seas Initiative, we are putting greater emphasis on the region's cyber resilience, the protection of critical infrastructure, and military mobility, " he said.

The summit adopted a joint declaration.

The 3SI is a cooperation format launched in August 2016 by 12 EU member states: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia. 

Participants attend the Summit of the Three Seas Initiative in Vilnius, Lithuania, on April 11, 2024. The Summit of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) was held here on Thursday, in a bid to improve transport links, diversify energy sources, and build resilient infrastructure. (Lithuanian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)
Lake Okeechobee gates are open again on the Caloosahatchee River side as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Friday that discharges to the west coast will increase starting Saturday.

These increased releases come at a time when the Florida Department of Health in Lee County issued blue-green algae advisories for the Alva Boat Ramp and Caloosahatchee River at Inlet Drive.

Mike Parsons, a professor and researcher at Florida Gulf Coast University's Water School, said blue-green algae is already in the system, so additional inflows from the lake shouldn't make conditions worse, at least not for now.

"I went to Franklin Lock last week and saw the streaks on the water and they're getting ready to do discharges again and I know there is (blue-green algae) present in the Cape Coral canals and downstream, so we're not necessarily looking at Lake Okeechobee inoculating a bloom downstream," Parsons said. "But as water warms, we're definitely going to keep a close eye on it for sure."

Blue-green algae coats the Caloosahatchee shoreline at the W.P, Franklin Lock in Olga, more than a month into sustained polluted releases from Lake Okeechobee.

Blue-green algae blooms have been recorded on the west side of Lake Okeechobee by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the state agency in charge of water quality.

Releases to both coasts went on for several weeks earlier this year, and coastal waters here turned chocolate brown as the Army Corps tried to lower Lake Okeechobee levels to prepare for the coming rainy and hurricane seasons.

The surface of Lake Okeechobee was 15 feet above sea level Friday, according to South Florida Water Management District records.

The Army Corps has typically conducted releases to keep lake levels between 12.5 and 15.5 feet above sea level.

Levels are a few feet higher than is needed for the healthy growth of the lake's aquatic vegetation, the spawning grounds for Okeechobee's world-class largemouth bass fishery.

But the agency stopped releases two weeks ago, then started them again at a rate of 650 cubic feet per second as measured at the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam in Alva, the dividing line between the brackish estuary and the freshwater, upper portion of the river.

More: Whirling mystery: Why are elevated toxin levels in Florida Keys still killing fish?

The west side of the lake is where the Caloosahatchee River was artificially connected to Lake Okeechobee in order to help drain the historic Everglades for farming and urban development.

The dry season turned out all wet

There is about a month left in the 2023-24 dry season, and the landscape is relatively wet.

El Nino brought the rain this past dry season, and it looks like Lee and Collier counties will end up well above average for precipitation since Nov. 2.

Visitors enjoy Bowditch Point Park onFort Myers Beach on Monday, Feb. 26, 2024. The Army Corp of Engineers started Lake Okeechobee releases on Feb. 17 due to high lake levels and continued El Nino conditions.

The rains wiped out a drought that lingered for much of 2023 in coastal Lee and Collier counties and minimized wildlife risks at a time of year when blazes can go on for days.

Southwest Florida has seen 18 inches, on average, this past dry season, according to South Florida Water Management District records.

More: Feds designate 13 Florida counties as critical habitat for nation's most endangered bat

Historically, rainy season weather patterns have taken over on May 15, according to the National Weather Service.

Hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through November.

The area would see about a foot of rain during a typical dry season, according to water district records.

The rains have left the landscape saturated one year after the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration declared coastal Lee and Collier counties to be in a moderate drought.

Wildfire threat minimized this year

Wildfire risks have been somewhat minimized as the region scored between 200 and 299 on the Florida Keetch-Byram Drought Index, or KBDI, a wildfire risk scale that ranges from 0 for a saturated landscape to 800 for super-crispy conditions.

Lee County measured 650 and Collier tallied 553, respectively, on April 12 of 2023, according to Florida Forest Service records.

More: Army Corps resuming releases of polluted Lake Okeechobee water down the Caloosahatchee

This year only the western tip of the Panhandle is abnormally dry.

The rest of the state is wet for April, records indicate.

NOAA's 90-day outlook calls for above-average rainfall and above-average temperatures between now and July 1.

Connect with this reporter: Chad Gillis on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Brown Lake O water headed toward Southwest Florida coast again
MONROE COUNTY, Pa. (WHNT)  A 19-year-old man was arrested in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, on Thursday, in connection to a Huntsville murder, according to Pennsylvania State Police.

State police said troopers were asked to help the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force locate 19-year-old Malcolm Jacob Derr.

Man found not guilty of murder in Sheffield drive-by shooting

The Huntsville Police Department wanted Derr in connection to a March 23 murder on Lakeview Drive. On that day, officers located 18-year-old Joseph Collins of Madison dead from gunshot wounds.

Investigators with HPD later learned that Derr may be in the Pennsylvania area and alerted U.S. Marshals. Troopers and marshals took Derr into custody during a traffic stop in Stroudsburg, Pa. on Thursday.

He is being held at Monroe County Correctional Facility without bail, waiting for extradition to Alabama.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
Lane reductions return this weekend for Revive I-5 work in South Seattle

Crews will return to northbound Interstate 5 in South Seattle starting Friday night for more Revive I-5 work.

The Washington State Department of Transportation said hundreds of concrete panels have already been replaced, but there is still more work to do.

Starting Friday, April 12, at 10 p.m., contractor crews will begin weekend-long lane reductions.

Crews will continue to replace broken and cracked concrete. The work depends on the weather and could be canceled by heavy rain.

Three lanes of northbound I-5 will be closed 24 hours a day between Albro Place and Columbian Way. The Bailey Street (Michigan/Corson) onramp to northbound I-5 will be closed during the work.

Two lanes will remain open all weekend.

The work will wrap up by 5 a.m. on Monday, April 15.

Drivers should be aware that there are several events this weekend, including Mariners games at T-Mobile Park.

This weekend is the seventh of about 13 weekend closures needed for the project.

Lane and ramp closures on I-5 will continue between Seattle and Tukwila until this fall.
















Criticism of celebrity chef David Chang and his Momofuku brand erupted recently after the company cried foul at fellow Asian-led chili oil companies over use of the term chili crunch. Chang subsequently apologized and said he wouldn't enforce the trademarked phrase.

All the same, the furor has renewed love for Lao Gan Ma spicy chili crisp, an iconic condiment that many of Asian descent, particularly Chinese Americans, associate with home.

Earlier this month, The Guardian reported that Changs food empire, which makes Momofuku Chili Crunch, had sent cease-and-desist letters to a number of chili oil companies, many of them small mom-and-pop operations. Momofuku demanded they stop using the term chili crunch, a trademark the food giant bought last year after it was sued by Denver-based company Chile Colonial for trademark infringement. Momofukus letters sought to prevent the other companies from using the phrase, though it doesnt prevent the creation of chili sauces. The day after this article initially published, Change issued an apology.

First and foremost, I want to apologize to everyone in the AAPI community whos been hurt or feels like Ive marginalized them or put a ceiling on them by our actions, Chang said on an episode of his podcast Friday. Theres a lot of chefs that Im friends with. Theres a lot of people that are upset, customers, and thats the last thing  literally the last thing  that I wanted to happen.

Before his decision to no longer enforce the trademark, many Asian Americans said that if the OG chili oil  Lao Gan Ma  has found prolonged success without having to bully other businesses, Momofuku shouldnt do so, either. And others said the nostalgia-packed staple with the recognizable Asian auntie logo deserves its flowers. In many Chinese American households, the condiment, an alluring mix of deep red fried chilies, oil, peanuts and MSG, is as ubiquitous as Mortons salt.

When I moved to the U.S. for college and I was cooking at home, it was probably the only condiment I was using, said Megan Wang, a Brooklyn-based baker who grew up in China. Lao Gan Ma was always there. Always.

Asian Americans and avid foodies alike point out that Lao Gan Mas chili sauce predates newer products by decades  including Momofukus, which launched in 2018. Chang, who has been open about his own love of Lao Gan Ma, nodded to it in his recent statement.

When we were thinking about naming  and again, shame on me if I didnt know this  but we named it chili crunch specifically because it was not chili crisp, Chang said of Momofuku's condiment. And we named it chili crunch because it was out of deference to chili crisp, which we associated with as Chinese, specifically carved out by Lao Gan Ma.

Lao Gan Ma hasnt sought to trademark the name of its oil in the U.S., though it has taken steps to protect the logo associated with it. According to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database, the sauces manufacturing company, Guiyang Nanming Laoganma Special Flavour Foodstuffs, filed for a trademark in 2001 for the illustration drawing which includes words/letters/numbers of its logo. A 2002 application, which has since been abandoned, was submitted for the image of the iconic woman on the jar.

Asian Americans point out that the condiment has thrived for decades, quietly remaining a fixture in Asian immigrant pantries across the country. Cecilia Xia, a Chinese American based in Los Angeles, said her parents would regularly pick up jars at the Chinese grocery store 99 Ranch. She doesnt remember the moment the sauce was introduced to her  it was just always in the fridge.

One of the vivid memories that I have is, after school, trying to come up with creative snacks for myself, said Xia, who works in tech. Thats what I remember from my childhood  taking Lao Gan Ma and putting it on pizzas.

Wang, who immigrated to the U.S. for college, said she could count on the sauce to adorn the tables of any Chinese restaurant she visited. For her, it was always a comforting sight, especially the apron-wearing auntie on the front of the jar, which conjured up feelings of home, from the people to the food.

She looks like my nainai, my grandmother. Its that old short-hair, post-Cultural Revolution haircut, Wang said. Its this nostalgia for the classics that have withstood the test of time.

The latest chatter began in March, when Momofuku sent cease-and-desist letters to businesses including Homiah, a Malaysian food brand known for its Sambal Chili Crunch. Momofuku lawyers demanded the company, and others it contacted, stop using the term chili crunch within 90 days.

According to the letter, seen by NBC News, Homiahs use of the term infringes on Momofukus trademark rights by creating an obvious risk that consumers will mistakenly believe that Homiahs Chili Crunch goods are associated with Momofuku.

Michelle Tew, Homiahs founder, compared receiving the letter to a punch in the gut.

Homiahs Sambal Chili Crunch product is personal and based on a family recipe from my Granny Nonie dating back to countless generations of Nyonya heritage in Penang, Malaysia, Tew wrote. I was shocked and disappointed that a well-known and respected player in the Asian food industry would legally threaten me  a one-woman show operating on a much smaller scale  from selling a product that is part of my familys history and culture.

Actor Simu Liu, who is chief content officer of MiLa, another chili crisp company that was sent the cease-and-desist letter, went so far as to challenge Chang to a blind taste test of the sauces. The winner, he wrote on social media, would keep the name. And many others criticized Chang, who has made a name in the culinary world as a champion of small businesses, for undermining Asian American solidarity.

In his comments Friday, Chang acknowledge the criticism: I spent the greater part of my adult life trying to bring light to Asian food, Asian American food, Asian identity, what it means to be Asian American. I understand why people are upset and Im truly sorry.

In a statement shared with NBC News prior to Chang's apology, a Momofuku spokesperson said the company stands alongside Asian American and Pacific Islander brands. But the spokesperson added that it noticed multiple businesses that sold chili crisp products rebranded to use the term Chili Crunch and said Momofuku itself had previously been sued by Chile Colonial, which makes a Mexican-inspired sauce.

When we created our product, we wanted a name we could own and intentionally picked Chili Crunch to further differentiate it from the broader chili crisp category, reflecting the uniqueness of Chili Crunch, which blends flavors from multiple culinary traditions, the spokesperson said. We worked with a family-owned company called Chile Colonial to purchase the trademark from them. They have defended the trademark previously against companies like Trader Joes.

Lao Gan Ma, which translates to old godmother, was introduced by a woman named Huabi Tao in 1984, according to the companys website. The sauce is drawn from popular flavors of Guizhou province. It was used in households decades before similar condiments were drizzled on haute cuisine.

It was this thing that you always had on your table or in your cooking, and then all of a sudden, these things became popular, and people started having a name for it: chili crisp, said Anita Mannur, a professor at Miami University whose research includes food studies.

Unlike Momofuku and many of the newer brands that have entered the food industry, Mannur said, Lao Gan Ma has no extensive marketing strategy in the U.S. The brand isnt tied to buzzy celebrity chefs, nor does the price point reflect the current trendiness of chili crisp.

And the woman on the bottle, Mannur said, adds another layer of comfort.

The difference between that and, say, Aunt Jemima or Uncle Ben is that it might be familiar, but its not rooted in a racist history, Mannur said. Shes one of us.

Still, many say, no two brands are exactly the same. And given Lao Gan Mas long-term success, some Asian Americans felt it was time for Momofuku and other brands to take a page out of the godmothers book and keep the space open to all.

I own all of these brands of chili crisp, and I use them for different dishes, and I appreciate the differences and the distinctions and all of the flavors and textures and differences in the formulation, Xia said. We have room for multiple moisturizers and serums when we buy skin care. So we should be able to appreciate chili crisp in the same way.

For more from NBC Asian America, sign up for our weekly newsletter.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
I have large breasts. At times in my life, it made me feel shame.

My breasts started drawing attention since I was 10 years old.

I remember vividly times when my large breasts caused me to feel shame.

Thanks to my therapist I've overcome the shame and depression that came with my breasts.

I was 10 and back-to-school shopping with my best friend. We'd found a cardigan sweater vest with a pleated skirt ensemble and wanted to buy matching ones in different colors. The store owner, a commanding, well-coiffed woman, came over to help. She pulled the royal blue for Marilyn and pointed her toward the dressing room. I was already holding the green I favored, so I turned in the same direction, but the woman's hand on my shoulder stopped me.

As I turned around, she pulled the clothes from my arms and replaced them with the next size up. "You're chesty," she said. This was the first time a stranger had commented about my changing body.

Shame burned me, and I wanted to throw the clothes down and bolt from the store. But Mar, having heard the woman, looked back at me, understanding. She knew I'd just gotten a training bra and wanted her mother to buy her one, too. It was so new we actually spelled the word in a whisper, as if it were code: B-R-A.

But it wasn't the last time I felt shame about my chest.

I didn't want to draw more attention to my boobs

I was 26 and shopping with my stylish girlfriend Jolie, whom I'd met while working at a public relations firm off Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. I asked Jolie if the jeans I was trying on made my butt look big. We giggled, and she assured me they were flattering.

I continued to study myself in the dressing room mirror, assessing if the blouse I was trying on made my boobs appear even more prominent or allowed for too much cleavage. I didn't ask Jolie, though, because I didn't want to draw attention to my chest, as that discerning store owner had back when I was a developing tween.

People assume I'm flirting when I'm not

At 39, I was a wife and mother while also dealing with chronic migraine. I lived in near-constant pain, with no more than a day or two off between attacks. Because my good days were both rare and unpredictable, I couldn't volunteer as I once had at my son's private Christian school, which meant I'd lost any traction or consideration a family received from either high volunteering hours or generous financial donations. When a new head of school was installed, I sought him out to discuss a developing issue with my son. As I walked onto campus that day to meet with him, I spied a mom I knew. She approached me, looking me up and down  I assumed because I was not sporting my usual yoga-pants-with-pony-tail look.

Instead, I was wearing street clothes and make-up. When I explained where I was headed, she nodded and then snatched the scarf I was wearing off my neck, revealing my V-neck sweater and protruding cleavage. She raised an eyebrow archly and gave me a look. Embarrassed, I pulled my scarf from her hands and strode off without a word.

The first sign of the gossip swirling around me came a few weeks later when a school mom pulled me aside after church and said, in a hushed, concerned voice, "You know, Diana, he's married." I was horrified, as her words were tantamount to an accusation. My cheeks burned with shame, followed by something else. Anger. I felt it rising up inside me, but I batted it down; I could not and would not deal with such feelings in my beleaguered, weakened state.

I had to start therapy because I had panic attacks

I vowed never to return to the school's church again and pivoted to attending mass with my Catholic husband. During the service, I took to staring at the confessionals, wishing I could tell the priest my truth and, in so doing, absolve myself of the self-enforced, invisible scarlet letter that burned hot upon my chest. Because I felt as if the school moms were judging me as a bad person and bad mother, I began to suffer panic attacks. I sought out a therapist, but instead of overcoming my anxiety, I slid into a depression that would deepen and eventually become treatment-resistant.

Fast forward four years to today, when I am recovered and thriving. I still see the same therapist who counseled me through it all. On a recent visit, the voluptuous Victoria told me about a study where women with big breasts were found to be more likely to experience depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety. "Researchers point to the shame women like us carry," she said. "It's an issue often overlooked."

What Victoria shared stayed with me. Indeed, because of my lived experience, I am convinced that we, as women, need to talk about the judgments we may unknowingly or unwittingly carry inside our heads  as openly and often as possible  until we feel safe in the knowledge that there is nothing to fear from the greater load some of us carry upon our chest.

Read the original article on Business Insider
One person was killed and more than a dozen were injured Friday, after the driver of a stolen 18-wheeler commercial vehicle crashed into a Department of Public Safety office in Brenham, Texas.

The Texas Department of Public Safety said the crash occurred around 11 a.m. local time, when the driver of the truck, Clenard Parker, 42, was being pursued by the Washington County Sheriff's Office.

The truck then "took a hard right turn" and crashed into the building, which provides driver's license and motor vehicle services, injuring multiple people and killing one, officials said. Parker was arrested at the scene.

Brenham is a city between Austin and Houston.

Clenard Parker, 42, allegedly crashed into a Texas DPS building, while being chased by authorities in a stolen 18-wheeler, killing one person and injuring more than a dozen others.

Parker was at the same DPS office on Thursday where he was denied a chance to renew his commercial driver's license, saying he wasn't eligible. Authorities were not sure why he was denied a renewal.

UBER DRIVER HITS, KILLS 1-YEAR-OLD AFTER DROPPING FAMILY OFF IN HOUSTON

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Two people were flown to a hospital in Bryan, one person was life-flighted to Memorial Hermann in Houston, three people were taken to a hospital in Brenham, and eight people were treated and released on the scene, authorities said.

One person died from their injuries, authorities said.

Parker will face multiple charges, authorities said, without going into specifics. He has previous criminal charges going back to 1999, including criminal trespass, arson, and prohibited weapons, FOX Houston reported.

The DPS office will be shut down and people with appointments for driver's license services were told to visit the Texas DPS website for more information.

Texas state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, who grew up in Brenham, said her office has been in contact with local authorities.

"According to law enforcement, this appears to be an intentional, criminal act and the Texas Rangers will be leading the investigation," she said in a statement. "This deliberate, heinous act is a reminder of the dangerous work done by our law enforcement and licensing agencies that work to provide public safety and services."

Fox News' Casey Stegall contributed to this report.





Original article source: Stolen 18-wheeler crashes into Texas DPS office, 1 dead, multiple injured
Las Cruces man seriously injured in house fire

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A 42-year-old man was seriously injured, and two others were rescued after a house fire early Thursday morning, April 11 in Las Cruces, according to the Las Cruces Fire Department.

Shortly after midnight, firefighters were dispatched to a house fire located at 7600 Cortez Drive.

Firefighters found three individuals inside the burning house and quickly removed them, according to LCFD.

A 42-year-old man, who was in the fire, was taken to a local hospital and later transported to a burn facility in Lubbock, Texas, for more advanced care, according to LCFD.

The status of the mans injuries is unknown at this time.

The other two victims, a male and female, were given care at the scene and declined transportation to a hospital, according to LCFD.

Firefighters successfully took the fire out within 15 minutes, according to LCFD.

The cause of the fire and damages are under investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  After allegedly harassing his neighbor for months, a Las Vegas man was never served the protection order filed against him, leading him to then stalk Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo and his family and spread the wild claim the governor committed murder.

Stanley Weaver III, 28, is accused of threatening Lombardos family  and breaking a window of a home where he believed the governor lived  all because he suspects the state leader murdered his neighbor, the 8 News Now Investigators first reported in March.

Also last month, a Clark County grand jury voted to indict Weaver on charges including aggravated stalking and first-degree arson. According to documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained, Weaver believes the governor killed Weavers former neighbor, Billy Vosburg, who the 8 News Now Investigators confirmed was alive and well.

I saw your story on the news, and I went, Oh goodness, Vosburg said. I went through his Instagram on a deep dive and discovered, Oh my gosh, he thinks Im dead. He thinks Im dead. And not only am I dead, but apparently I was murdered by the governor.

A still image from a doorbell camera of a man prosecutors say is Stanley Weaver at a home where he believed Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo and his family lived. (KLAS)

Vosburg has no connection to Lombardo, he said.

The governor Joe Lombardo killed a man, Weaver said in one video posted to social media. Governor Lombardo killed a man, and the police need to do something about it.

On Sunday, March 3, Las Vegas Metro police were called to a home in the west Las Vegas valley about a man banging on a door yelling that Governor Joe Lombardo had killed someone, according to documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained. While investigating the incident, a neighbor told police a person broke a window at his neighboring home.

Later that evening, a member of the governors family told police she saw a video on Instagram where a man, later identified as Weaver, threw a rock at a home and said, I hate to do this but Im coming for you. Weaver also allegedly attempted to contact about 100 of the family members friends on social media, police said.

Gov. Joe Lombardo speaks with supporters at Rancho High School in Las Vegas, on Monday, Nov. 14, 2022. (Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun via AP, File)

According to documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained, it appears Weaver believed the governor lived in the home with his family. The governors family member also told police she suspected Weaver attempted to call her on Instagram in the days before, documents said.

Thirty-seven other Instagram posts about the governor included a picture of an unknown person with Weaver allegedly saying the person works for the governor and moved him into the dead mans condo, documents said.

Another video posted on Instagram shows a man outside the home saying, Governor Joe Lombardo killed someone, and this is his house.

Weaver allegedly harassed Vosburg for months in 2023. Vosburg was Weavers upstairs neighbor.

A post from Stanley Weaver, the man accused of stalking Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo and his family. (KLAS)

At what point did you want to move? 8 News Now Investigator David Charns asked Vosburg.

It was around the time that he chased me in my car around the neighborhood, Vosburg said.

Records the 8 News Now Investigators obtained show Vosburg called police on Weaver seven times in the spring of 2023. Vosburg set up cameras, which prosecutors said showed Weaver throwing rocks at the upstairs window. Weaver also allegedly set fire to his apartment after Vosburg moved out, police said.

I was terrified, Vosburg said. I needed to go.

A post from Stanley Weaver, the man accused of stalking Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo and his family, showing a photo of William Vosburgs former front door. (KLAS)

Vosburg is not sure what Weaver had an issue with, though he said Weaver threw not just rocks but homophobic slurs.

The harassment culminated with a temporary protection order (TPO) signed that June. The order required Weaver to stay 100 feet away from Vosburg.

The order was never served, according to documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained.

You were granted that TPO, but he was never served that TPO, Charns said to Vosburg.

Damage from the fire Stanley Weaver allegedly set in his apartment. (KLAS)

Apparently not, Vosburg said.

What does that say to you? Charns asked.

That less people care, Vosburg said.

Once Vosburg packed up and moved out, Weavers wild theory appears to have unraveled. Weaver posted photos on social media of Vosburgs old front door alongside dozens of other photos of Lombardo and his family. Weaver also sent messages to Nevada first lady Donna Lombardo and attempted to contact the governors daughter and stepdaughter, police said.

As the 8 News Now Investigators first reported, Stanley Weaver III, 28, is accused of breaking a window of a home where he believed the governor lived  all because he suspects Lombardo committed murder. (LVMPD/KLAS)

Documents also reveal Weaver searched Google dozens of times for terms and phrases like: Where does Governor Joe Lombardo live now? Donna Lombardo, Joe Lombardo kids and a Las Vegas address.

By March 2024, a doorbell camera recorded as Weaver showed up to the home where he believed the Lombardos lived. By then, documents reveal the governors security team was aware of Weavers attempts to contact the family and officials were planning to contact him on Monday, March 4.

Weaver showed up at the home where he believed the governor lived on Sunday, March 3, police said.

I feel like if he is going to find the governor and his family to somehow avenge me, whats going to put it past him to come find me? Vosburg said.

Documents reveal Stanley Weaver allegedly searched Google dozens of times for terms and phrases like: Where does Governor Joe Lombardo live now? Donna Lombardo, Joe Lombardo kids and a Las Vegas address. (KLAS)

Police arrested Weaver shortly after he allegedly broke a window at a home in the neighborhood where he believed the governor lived. While in custody, officers noted Weaver was placed on a mental health hold in January for attempting to set an apartment fire, documents said.

Last year, Weaver appeared in competency court on a misdemeanor DUI charge.

The State of Nevada is going to consider dismissing the charges against you if you go to the hospital, talk to the doctors, go to all your appointments and stay out of trouble. Can you do that? Clark County District Court Judge Cristy Craig asked Weaver in the hearing.

Yes, Weaver replied.

A post from Stanley Weaver showing a window of Billy Vosburgs former apartment. (KLAS)

Thats terrific, the judge said.

Several months later, as Weaver was posting videos about the claim Lombardo killed his neighbor, court records show he finished a misdemeanor diversion program, where he received treatment, but did not attend a follow-up appointment.

Without knowledge of the continued harassment or the apartment fire, the judge dismissed Weavers original case without any opposition.

Has he stayed out of trouble? Craig asked the prosecutor.

Damage to a window police say Weaver vandalized during his attempt to speak with Gov. Joe Lombardo and his family. (KLAS)

Yes, your Honor, the prosecutor responded.

Im going to dismiss with cause, Craig replied.

Records the 8 News Now Investigators reviewed show while the fire happened on Jan. 12, 2024, Weaver was not charged with the arson until after this stalking arrest in March. Documents show Weaver made statements in January about possibly setting a fire, including one comment to a family member where he wrote on a note: Should I burn the house down?

A family member also told police they saw burn marks on Weavers bedroom ceiling before the fire.

The harassment culminated with a temporary protection order (TPO) signed that June. The order required Weaver to stay 100 feet away from Vosburg. The order was never served, according to documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained. (KLAS)

To know that he can go and find homes of people related to the governor to avenge my murder after he tormented me for months, its beyond insane, Vosburg said. I dont even know how to describe it.

Vosburg, who has scrubbed his life from social media and public databases, wishes more could have happened before Weavers behavior escalated.

I want to see him get the help he needs and stay behind bars for a long time, Vosburg said.

He is also thankful Weaver never found him.

As far as I was concerned, he wasnt able find me, Vosburg said.

Members of Weavers family told police they are fearful that Weaver may harm or kill a member of [the governors] family and that they took steps to hide all the knives in the apartment so that Weaver could not access them, documents said.

Vosburg said he was told the protection order against Weaver was never served because he neglected to write down his alleged stalkers birthday.

My family is safe, and I am grateful for the quick response of law enforcement, Lombardo said in a statement. The increase in online agitation and anger continues to lead to more real-life violence. May this incident serve as a reminder to treat each other with respect and dignity, and to join together to make sure our law enforcement officers have the training and tools necessary to keep all of us safe.

Earlier this month, Judge Eric Goodman set Weavers bail at $1 million. Weaver has refused to appear in court. A note in Weavers docket said he has refused all court appearances. The grand jury indictment means Weavers case will bypass Las Vegas Justice Court and begin proceedings in district court.

Weavers new case was referred to competency court to see if doctors believed Weaver could understand the criminal charges filed against him.

Police attempted to serve Weaver the TPO three times, a Metro spokesperson said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
The Latest | Israel says it opened new aid crossing into hard-hit northern Gaza

Israel said Friday it had opened a new crossing for aid trucks into hard-hit northern Gaza as it ramps up humanitarian deliveries to the besieged enclave. However, the United Nations says the surge of aid is not being felt in Gaza because of persistent distribution difficulties inside the war-torn territory.

Six months of fighting in Gaza have pushed the besieged Palestinian enclave into deepening a humanitarian crisis, with more than 1 million people on the brink of starvation.

In the occupied West Bank, an Israeli raid killed two Palestinians, including a Hamas militant. Later Friday, dozens of angry Israeli settlers rampaged through a West Bank village, shooting and setting houses and cars on fire. The rampage killed a Palestinian man and wounded 25 others, Palestinian health officials said.

Over 460 Palestinians have been killed by Israelis in the West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Israeli bombardments and ground offensives in Gaza have killed more than 33,600 Palestinians and wounded over 76,200, the Health Ministry said Friday. The ministry doesnt differentiate between civilians and combatants in its tally, but says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

The war started on Oct. 7 when Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis in a surprise attack, mostly civilians. Around 250 people hostage were also taken hostage by Palestinian militants.

Currently:

 Israel promised to ramp up aid to Gaza dramatically, but days later there are few signs of any impact.

 Poland says aid workers killing in Gaza should be brought before Israeli court.

 Muslim leaders are out of words as they tire of the White House outreach on the war in Gaza.

 An Israeli airstrike in Gaza kills 3 sons and 4 grandchildren of Hamas top leader.

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war.

Here's the latest:

BIDEN SAYS U.S. IS DEVOTED TO DEFENDING ISRAEL, AND IRAN WILL NOT SUCCEED

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden says the U.S. is devoted to defending Israel and Iran will not succeed.

Israel is bracing for a possible Iranian attack after an airstrike killed two Iranian generals in Syria last week. Iran has blamed Israel for the airstrike and vowed revenge. Israel has not commented on the strike.

Biden answered a couple of shouted questions at the White House on Friday, after delivering a virtual speech to the Rev. Al Sharptons National Action Network Convention on racial justice in New York.

Asked what his message was for Iran, the president's only reply was: Dont.

He was asked about the possibility of deploying additional U.S. troops to the Middle East and said, We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel.

We will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed, Biden added. He ignored a question about what would trigger a direct U.S. military response.

Asked how imminent an Iranian attack on Israel was, Biden said he didnt want to get into secure information, but my expectation is sooner than later.

The apparent Israeli airstrike and promised Iranian retaliation has raised concerns about the U.S. being pulled into deeper regional conflict.

Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began six months ago, there have been near-daily exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group along the Israel-Lebanon border.

U.S. officials have recorded more than 150 attacks by Iran-backed militias in Iraq and Syria on U.S. forces at bases in those countries since war began on Oct. 7.

One attack in late January killed three U.S. service members in Jordan. In retaliation, the U.S. launched a massive air assault, hitting more than 85 targets at seven locations in Iraq and Syria. There have been no publicly reported attacks on U.S. troops in the region since that response.

ISRAELI MILITARY SAYS IT'S PREPARED FOR A POSSIBLE IRANIAN ATTACK

JERUSALEM  Israels military says it has prepared plans to respond to a possible Iranian attack.

The armys spokesperson, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said late Friday that Israel is ready for a wide variety of scenarios that include both defensive and offensive actions. He also said that Israels military chief has completed a situation assessment with the head of the U.S. Central Command, Gen. Erik Kurilla, who is visiting Israel.

Our defenses are ready and know how to deal with every threat separately, Hagari told reporters. Next to defense, we are prepared to attack. We are ready to attack with a range of capabilities and we know how to act and protect the people of Israel.

Israel has been bracing for a possible Iranian attack since an airstrike killed two Iranian generals in the Syrian capital of Damascus last week.

Iran has blamed Israel for the airstrike and vowed revenge. Israel has not commented on the strike.

Iran has a number of proxy groups in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen that are all capable of striking Israel. Iran also possesses long-range missiles that can reach Israel. Israeli leaders have threatened to strike Iran directly if it attacks, and President Joe Biden has said the U.S. commitment to Israels security is ironclad.

Hagari said the visit by Kurilla is meant to guarantee that the coordination between us is tight.

ISRAELI SETTLERS IN WEST BANK RAMPAGE THROUGH PALESTINIAN VILLAGE; 1 DEAD AND 18 WOUNDED

JERUSALEM  Dozens of Israeli settlers rampaged through a Palestinian village in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Friday, Palestinian medics and an Israeli rights group said. Palestinian health officials said the rampage killed a Palestinian man and wounded 25 others.

Settlers stormed the village of al-Mughayyir in search of a missing 14-year-old Israeli boy, according to rights group Yesh Din. The group said that settlers were shooting and setting houses on fire in the village.

Videos posted to X, formerly Twitter, by the rights group showed dark clouds of smoke billowing from burning cars as gunshots rang out.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said that one man was brought dead to a hospital and 25 were treated for wounds. The Palestine Red Crescent Society said eight of the injured were hit by live fire.

Israels military said it was looking into the reports.

The episode comes as tensions flare in the West Bank, where over 460 Palestinians have been killed by Israelis since Oct. 7.

ISRAEL OPENS NEW AID TRUCK CROSSING INTO NORTH GAZA

JERUSALEM  Israel said Friday it had opened a new crossing for aid trucks into northern Gaza as its efforts to ramp up aid to the besieged enclave came under criticism from a top United Nations official.

Israel, facing mounting U.S. pressure to improve the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, has pledged this week to dramatically increase aid to the strip.

The military said that trucks carrying food passed the newly opened northern crossing Thursday. It said the aid was inspected at its Kerem Shalom crossing near the Egyptian border before being transported inside Israel to the crossing. The new system is meant as an alternative to the challenging and dangerous process of transporting aid from northern to southern Gaza.

In the coming days, Israel says it will also open its port in the southern city of Ashdod for more aid shipments. Most aid is currently delivered by land from neighboring Egypt.

COGAT, the Israeli military body in charge of Palestinian civilian affairs, said Friday it has sent 1,903 trucks into Gaza over the last week, with 221 truckloads of aid reaching the north over that same timeframe.

However, the U.N. says the surge of aid is not being felt in Gaza because difficulties persist in distributing the aid.

Its very easy for Israel to say, Weve sent you 1,000 trucks so please deliver them inside Gaza, said Jamie McGoldrick, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories.

The U.N. says aid distribution within Gaza is dangerous and mired in long holdups at inspection checkpoints. Bringing aid to the north of the territory  where the U.N. says famine is near  is particularly difficult, McGoldrick said, with only one or two roads north open at a given time.

Several aid organizations have suspended their convoys north after an Israeli strike on a World Central Kitchen aid mission killed seven aid workers.

BRITISH-PALESTINIAN SURGEON SAYS GERMANY BLOCKED HIM FROM ENTERING COUNTRY TO JOIN PRO-PALESTINIAN CONFERENCE

BERLIN  A prominent British-Palestinian surgeon who volunteered in Gaza hospitals during the first weeks of the Israel-Hamas war said he was denied entry into Germany on Friday, where he was due to take part in a pro-Palestinian conference.

Dr. Ghassan Abu Sitta said he arrived at Berlin airport on Friday morning before being stopped at passport control where he was held for several hours and then told he had to return to the U.K.

Police at the airport said he was refused entry due to the safety of the people at the conference and public order, Abu Sitta told The Associated Press by phone.

The ban will last until Sunday, covering the duration of the Berlin conference he was to attend, he said. The gathering, entitled the Palestine Congress, was to discuss a range of topics including German arms shipments to Israel and solidarity with what organizers called the Palestinian struggle.

Police at Berlin airport could not immediately be reached for comment.

Germany has traditionally held a staunchly pro-Israel position, and during the Gaza war emerged as one of Israels fiercest supporters, even amid growing international outrage over the soaring Palestinian death toll.

German authorities have repeatedly clamped down on displays of support for Palestinians.

Abu Sitta has worked during multiple conflicts in the Palestinian territories, beginning in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian uprising. He has also worked in other conflict zones, including in Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

He spent 44 days in Gaza hospitals during the current war as a volunteer for Doctors Without Borders.

Throughout his most-recent stint in Gaza, he gave numerous interviews to international media outlets about the deteriorating humanitarian and health situation in the besieged enclave.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL SANCTIONS THREE PALESTINIAN MILITANT GROUPS OVER THEIR ROLE IN OCT. 7 ATTACKS

BRUSSELS, Belgium  The European Council has slapped sanctions on three Palestinian militant organizations, citing their role in the brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks on Oct. 7 against Israel.

The sanctions will freeze the groups' assets and prohibit anyone from giving funding or economic resources to the groups or for their benefit, either directly or indirectly, the council said in a statement Friday.

The newly sanctioned groups are Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, as well as Hamas elite Nukhba forces and the Al-Quds Brigades, the military arm of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Hamas and Islamic Jihad entered southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages.

Hamas and other armed groups must immediately grant humanitarian access to all remaining hostages, the European Council statement said.

The U.S. State Department, the European Union and other Western countries already consider Hamas and Islamic Jihad as terrorist groups. The European Council is the body that brings together the 28 EU countries leaders.

BODIES OF 89 PEOPLE KILLED IN GAZA TAKEN TO HOSPITALS, OFFICIALS SAY

RAFAH, Gaza Strip  Gaza health officials said Friday that 89 bodies were taken to hospitals over the past 24 hours, raising the Palestinian death toll in the territory to 33,634 since the Israel-Hamas war erupted more than six months ago.

The total number of wounded has reached 76,214, said the ministry, which is part of a Hamas government that continues to operate in some parts of Gaza.

The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and militants in its count, but says that two-thirds of the dead are women and children. It says many bodies across devastated Gaza remain under the rubble.

Israels military says it has killed thousands of Hamas militants since the start of the war. The war was triggered by Hamas Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel in which the militants killed about 1,200 people and took some 250 hostages.

2 PALESTINIANS ARE KILLED IN THE ISRAELI-OCCUPIED WEST BANK

JERUSALEM  Two Palestinians were killed early Friday in confrontations with Israeli forces in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Palestinian medics and the military said. The Islamic militant group Hamas said one of those killed was a local commander.

The raid took place in the town of Tubas and the adjacent refugee camp of al-Faraa. The Palestine Red Crescent Society confirmed the two deaths and said three people were wounded, including one who sustained serious injuries.

The military said the target of the raid was Mohammed Daraghmeh, a local Hamas commander. It said Daraghmeh was killed in a shootout with Israeli soldiers who discovered weapons in his car. The army alleged that Daraghmeh was planning attacks on Israeli targets, but provided no evidence.

In subsequent confrontations between soldiers and armed Palestinians, a second Palestinian was killed Friday. The army said assailants also hurled explosives at soldiers.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said one of its ambulances was fired at by Israeli forces as medics were trying to treat one of the wounded.

Palestinian health officials say 460 Palestinians, including several dozen children and teens, have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, triggered by a deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7. Most were killed in confrontations with Israeli forces who have stepped up raids in the West Bank in recent months, targeting suspected militants. Several other Palestinians have been killed in attacks by militant Israeli settlers.

FRANCE WARNS CITIZENS AGAINST TRAVELING TO ISRAEL, IRAN, LEBANON, AND PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

PARIS  Frances foreign ministry has warned citizens against traveling to Israel, Palestinian territories, Iran and Lebanon in the coming days due to a heightened risk of military escalation in the Middle East.

Iran has been threatening to avenge the deaths of two of its generals killed in an airstrike in the Syrian capital, Damascus, last week. Tehran blames Israel for the strike, although Israel has not commented. Israel has called up additional defense units in anticipation of an attack by either Iran or the many proxy groups it supports in the region.

Faced with risks of a military escalation, the French foreign ministry called on citizens in a statement Friday to completely refrain from traveling to the three Middle Eastern countries and the Palestinian territories. The ministry also ordered families of diplomats in Tehran to return to France and suspended all foreign ministry sanctioned missions to Israel, Lebanon, Iran and the Palestinian territories after a crisis meeting Friday, the statement said.

SPAIN AND NORWAY SUPPORT RECOGNIZING A PALESTINIAN STATE

COPENHAGEN, Denmark  Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that Spain has publicly committed to recognizing Palestine as a state as soon as possible when the conditions are appropriate and in a way that can have the most positive impact to the peace process.

Sanchez was in the Norwegian capital, Oslo, as part of a tour that also includes Ireland, to push for peace in Gaza and seek support for recognition of Palestine. His Norwegian counterpart, Jonas Gahr Stre, said that Norway stands ready to recognize the state of Palestine and to recognize this place, appropriate place in the United Nations.

The traditional position of the United States and European allies had been that recognition of a Palestinian state should come at the end of successful negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians. However, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, some European leaders have called for such recognition as an interim step that would create a political horizon for Palestinians, especially at a time when Israels right-wing government is adamantly opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state. Sanchez has been one of the most vocal advocates of early recognition.
The son of Colorado Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert told a judge that he was struggling to find a lawyer he could afford, to defend him in his trial over alleged car break-ins and property theft.

Tyler Boebert, 19, appeared at the Garfield County Court on Thursday to hear the 14 charges against him, including felony counts for identity theft.

Westword reported that 9th Judicial District Judge John F Neiley told Mr Boebert that he liked the young mans suit, saying: "I appreciate it when people dress for court.

Despite his sharp suit, Mr Boebert told the judge that he was appearing without legal representation, as he was struggling to find one he could afford.

Tyler Boebert was arrested in February over alleged robbery and property theft incidents in Rifle, Colorado (Rifle Police Department)

"We are working to hire an attorney, but its just been kind of hard with the prices," the defendant told the judge.

"Worst-case scenario, if we cant get something figured out with the lawyer, then were going to apply for a public defender or whatever works best for me."

Rifle Police Department arrested Mr Boebert in February, after a recent string of vehicle trespass and property thefts.

At the time, his Republican lawmaker mother released a statement saying her son had been through some difficult, public challenges.

It breaks my heart to see my child struggling and, in this situation, especially when he has been provided multiple opportunities to get his life on track, the Republican said.

The 19-year-old hit the headlines last year when Ms Boebert announced she was becoming a grandmother at 36, with Tyler becoming a dad.

Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert pictured in February 2024 (Getty Images)

The right-wing representative spoke of her joy at her sons partner choosing life, as a long-time anti-abortionist.

Ms Boebert is no stranger to dealing with law enforcement, having been arrested herself for disorderly conduct in 2015 while at a music festival in Colorado.

The following year, Ms Boebert was pulled over for speeding and was arrested for not paying a ticket, while her gun-themed restaurant Shooters was handed a restraining order in 2020 for breaking Covid laws.

Then, earlier this year, Ms Boebert was granted a restraining order against her ex-husband, Jayson Boebert, who she divorced last year.

Their divorce was finalised shortly after the congresswoman was ejected from a theatre in Denver, where she was accused of vaping and groping her date during a performance of Beetlejuice.

Police were called out to a restaurant in Silt, where the couple had gotten into an altercation, on 6 January 2024. Mr Boebert had reportedly got drunk, had been cursing and yelling, and refused to leave the restaurant.

A few days later, Mr Boebert was arrested on suspicion of assaulting one of his sons, as well as criminal mischief, prohibited use of a firearm, obstructing a peace officer, trespassing and disorderly conduct in connection to both incidents.

Within a few weeks, Tyler Boebert was arrested over incidents on 19 and 20 February, in which he and some underage friends allegedly robbed multiple people in Rifle.

He is next due in court on 9 May, where he is expected to present an attorney or a public defender.
When former President Donald Trump appears in a New York courtroom Monday to face an unprecedented legal battle in his hush money case, law enforcement will deploy a sophisticated and multi-layered security plan greater than that of his previous high-profile cases in Manhattan, law enforcement officials told CNN.

Trump, who is supposed to be in court and does not have the option of skipping any of the estimated six-to-eight week trial, is now the presumptive Republican nominee set to rematch President Joe Biden in November  a key difference from his attendance during a civil fraud case brought by state Attorney General Letitia James that inherently raises the stakes and will mean a more robust security package.

The hallmark of the strategy is a combination of extra staffing, strategically placed frozen zones, high-tech deployments and intelligence, which includes monitoring social media for anything ranging from lone wolf threats to major politically themed protests and disturbances, the officials said.

Obviously, the threat picture is bigger, said New York Police Department Assistant Chief John Hart, commanding officer of the NYPDs Intelligence and Counterterrorism Division, who added that they did a similar security ramp up around Trump when he became the GOP nominee in 2016.

We had to set up a whole infrastructure around Trump Tower, which we will have to rebuild for this, Hart said of the security posture around the former president. Were going to be looking at the threat picture on a constant basis. Social media scrubbing, just listening to people making calls or making threats online, all of those things.

The NYPD will monitor security at the criminal court in lower Manhattan from two main locations: a mobile command center, which will be a short walk from 100 Centre St. where high-ranking NYPD officials will be stationed and manage deployments, and the Joint Operations Center, a massive intelligence hub where police can access over 50,000 cameras in the city. Hart called the hub the nerve center of the city and said theyll be in communication with the mobile command center. Officers in both the command center and the Joint Operations Center will listen to radio channels tethered to Trumps movements, follow cameras along his route and even zoom in on unruly crowds and troublesome incidents around Trump Tower and the courthouse.

Other federal law enforcement agencies that help monitor from the Joint Operations Center for big events will be present starting on Monday, Hart said. Even specialized NYPD units that arent usually present will be there because of the trial.

The security package for Trump during the civil fraud trial and his brief appearance at Manhattan criminal court served as a precursor for law enforcement to build upon before the main event starts on Monday, Hart said.

This is six to eight weeks of a trial, jury selection and then a trial, of unprecedented scale, Hart said. A former president running for president on trial here in New York City. Its a big challenge. Its a lot of moving parts. Hell be also moving in and out of the city on a regular basis so we are working with all of our partners, our federal partners, our New York State court officers, all the people on the ground that are going to help us manage that stuff.

The security plan has taken shape during the last several months at regular meetings between the Secret Service, the NYPD, the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, and the New York State Office of Court Administration, according to officials.

The Secret Service will primarily be in charge of transporting the former president, taking him from Trump Tower to the courthouse on Centre Street, according to officials.

The route is going to be up to the Secret Service, said NYPD Assistant Chief James McCarthy, commanding officer of Patrol Borough Manhattan South who will oversee the NYPDs presence at Trump Tower, the courthouse and the route the motorcade will travel. Im sure its going to change up. Its not going to be the same every day.

Most of the perimeter of the courthouse will be frozen, including the back entrance and the side entrance at Hogan Place where court staff and even Trump has been known to enter from, McCarthy said.

The NYPD will focus on street closures leading from Trump Tower to the courthouse and will have a heavy presence outside the building. There, they will make sure areas are frozen along key routes to and around the courthouse, while potential demonstrations will be relegated to Collect Pond Park, located right across from the courthouse.

It all depends on where he is at the time, McCarthy said. Once hes in Id like to make things as back to normal as possible. Once hes in, were good. When hes leaving, were frozen, but I want to make that time as small as possible.

Once Trump gets into the building, court officers will be concerned with the former presidents movements in the building. An elevator will be frozen inside the courthouse and will be Trumps designated lift that will take him to the 15th floor, which will also be frozen and where the courtroom is located, according to a law enforcement official.

Secret Service agents, who have been seen going in and out of the courthouse for months, making sure that they have the former presidents exact route inside the building planned, even down to the stairwell he would take in an emergency, will be sitting right behind him, the official said. Some agents will even be sprinkled throughout the courtroom and will be undercover, according to another law enforcement official.

To handle the need for extra security, court officers who worked security during Trumps civil fraud trial are now being used to help bolster the staff during the hush money trial, the officials said. They will be sitting in each bench in the courtroom closest to the center aisle, serving as a buffer between Trump and anyone else inside as he walks down the aisle, the official said.

The challenge for court staff will be running the trial while the rest of the courthouse remains active. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg sent a letter to staff telling them of revised and updated security protocols for the Trump trial, which included moving screenings by the clerks office for grand juries as well as other additional security measures for employees, visitors and witnesses.

Our priority is the safety of the thousands of New Yorkers, including Manhattan D.A. employees, court staff, crime victims, and witnesses, who come through our courthouse doors, spokesperson Danielle Filson said in a statement. Were especially grateful to our law enforcement partners at the NYPD, as well as OCA for their tireless efforts to maintain a safe environment for us and to protect the integrity of all ongoing court proceedings.

Anyone going into the courtroom will pass through two magnetometers, one in the lobby and one right outside the courtroom, according to the law enforcement official.

And while the courtroom is full, bomb sniffing dogs from the court officers and the NYPD will be patrolling the halls and the grounds. The NYPD will also be using its drones, barricades and extra police officers to keep the location safe.

We use drones, theyve been very effective for us, McCarthy said. Youre going to see a lot of toys out there.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WJBF)  Law enforcement is currently on the scene after responding to a vehicle fire on Edgefield Road.

According to dispatchers with the North Augusta Department of Public Safety, units responded to a vehicle fire at Edgefield Road  the US 25 Connector  at Ascauga Lake Road.

ALSO ON WJBF: SLED charges 17-year-old with attempted murder in 2022 shooting

This intersection is just a little more than a mile south of the Edgefield Road Walmart Supercenter.

According to dispatch, law enforcement is on-scene helping to keep traffic moving and keep first responders safe.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Law enforcement is investigating multiple robberies in Vancouver that may have been committed by the same man, officials said.

On Thursday, the Clark County Sheriffs Office said two robberies happened back-to-back with the suspect having a similar description in each case. One happened at 12:33 p.m. when the suspect  whose identity is unknown  robbed a Starbucks inside of a Safeway at 13023 NE Highway 99. Then at 2:18 p.m., another store was robbed, the Walgreens at 8511 NE 162nd Ave.

Salem-Keizer Public Schools cant avoid $40M budget cuts, elimination of 400 positions

In each case, the suspect is described as a white man in his 40s, over 6 feet tall, and roughly 200 pounds. For both of the robberies, he was said to be wearing a light blue hoodie with black writing, dark blue sweatpants, black shoes, a black stocking cap, and a black COVID-style mask, according to a release from the sheriffs office.

Each of the robberies were also committed at knifepoint, with the suspect said to be armed with a long knife akin to a fillet or long paring knife. After both of the robberies, the suspect was said to have fled on foot and possibly gotten into a nearby vehicle to get away.

Gresham police: Teen shot at girlfriends family before kidnapping, police chase

During the Safeway robbery, an employee was knocked to the ground by the suspect as he was fleeing. The person was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. The sheriffs office said the ordeal at the Safeway activated a heavy police presence, including deputies conducting searches using K9 units and an unmanned aircraft system.

Similarly, the area around the Walgreens was also searched amid a heavy police presence, but no suspect was located.

Whats more, that same Safeway was robbed on Monday by an individual who had a similar physical description as the more recent incidents. The suspect was described as a white man, about 6 feet tall, medium build, wearing a dark-colored sweater, sweatpants, a gray beanie and a black COVID-style mask once again.

The investigation is currently ongoing, officials said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
(WETM)  Law Talk brings answers to questions that you, our viewers submit to be answered by our team of lawyers. In this edition of Law Talk, Attorney Anna Czarples discusses the newly enforced Move Over Law in New York State and how it affects you going forward compared to previous versions of the law.

Be sure to check back each month as Anna Czarples discusses different topics associated with personal injury or other legal topics as you decide. If you have a question that you would like to see potentially answered during Law Talk, please email it to LawTalk@wetmtv.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Some lawmakers on the House Armed Services Committee Friday expressed concern that there is not enough money for missiles in the Defense Departments 2025 budget request.

The overall level of funding is inadequate given todays threat environment, Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.) said.

The Pentagons Missile Defense Agency is asking for $10.4 billion, a more than $400 million decrease from the year before.

Our prioritization of decisions will maximize missile defense system capability, capacity and readiness, Missile Defense Agency Director Lt. Gen. Heath Collins said.

Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) demanded answers to the choice to cut funding.

I just dont understand the rationale behind many of these cuts, Moulton said.

Rep. Dale Strong (R-Ala.) criticized President Biden for the agencys request.

I worry that the Biden administration is wanting to dismantle the significant industrial capacity that has been built up over decades, Strong said.

Defense Department officials say the lower request is partly because of a recent law passed that limited some defense spending.

We had to work within that ceiling. You had must-pay bills, payroll increases, health care programs, child support, a lot of those things that go on in the Defense Department, John Hill, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space and Missile Defense Policy said.

Seems like missile defense is an area we do not want to be cutting, Rep. Don Bacon (D-Neb.) said.

When the budget request was first released in March, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said, We made difficult but responsible decisions focusing on maintaining our militarys readiness and taking care of our personnel.

Congress has until October to decide on the Pentagons budget request.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
The case against police officers and state troopers sued over the 2022 killing of Landon Eastep will continue after a federal judge recently declined to dismiss the excessive force claims against them. Nine law enforcement officials opened fire on 37-year-old Eastep after a tense 30-minute standoff on Interstate 65 when he pulled a metal object later determined not to be a weapon from his pocket.

The ruling is the first significant development in the lawsuit filed by Landon Eastep's widow, Chelesy Eastep, more than 18 months ago.

U.S. District Judge Waverly D. Crenshaw Jr. chose not to grant immunity to the officers and troopers in a March 29 ruling. Qualified immunity is a legal doctrine that shields police and other government officials from liability for their misconduct.

From left, Landon and Chelesy Eastep

The six Metro Nashville police officers and one Mount Juliet police officer who were sued filed an appeal to the 6th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals late last week in hopes that the higher court will grant them immunity.

As part of the same ruling, Crenshaw threw out the claims against the Metro Nashville and Mount Juliet governments, which the lawsuit argued should be held legally liable for the actions of their police officers.

Crenshaw threw out one claim against the officers and troopers for failure to protect Eastep from further harm after the initial shots were fired, but the thrust of the lawsuit lied in the excessive force claim, which survived the ruling.

Crenshaw stopped short of denying qualified immunity to the officers and state troopers, instead reserving the issue until there is "further factual development" in the case, including at which point each individual officer fired at Eastep. Such development would likely hinge on body camera footage from each officer and trooper, which has not yet been provided to the court.

With the footage provided, Crenshaw wrote that he "can only guess which gun shots belonged to each Individual Defendant."

"Without additional factual information or evidence, the Court cannot identify the subset, if one exists, of the Individual Defendants who, as a matter of law, exercised the required restraint," Crenshaw wrote.

That said, Crenshaw could still identify the shots fired by former officer Brian Murphy, who fired two bullets after another officer called a cease-fire order. The judge wrote in a footnote that "the video evidence clearly establishes Murphy did not load his rifle onto his shoulder until Eastep had fallen." The Metro Nashville Police Department decommissioned Murphy hours after the shooting.

At about 1:45 p.m. on Jan. 17, 2022, Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Reggie Edge Jr. stopped to check on Eastep, who was walking on the side of I-65 near the Harding Place exit about five miles south of downtown Nashville. Off-duty Mount Juliet Police Department Cpl. Fabjan Llukaj stopped to assist.

Landon Eastep was shot a dozen times by nine officers in January on the side of a Nashville interstate. Here is the interaction before the shooting.

The trooper and officer drew their guns when Eastep produced a box cutter. The most recent lawsuit claims Eastep produced the box cutter to comply with the trooper's order to give him anything that could harm him. MNPD previously said Eastep "pulled a box cutter" on the trooper. A 30-minute standoff followed while a second THP trooper and several MNPD officers arrived. The most recent version of the lawsuit, amended in May 2023, describes Eastep as "emotionally distressed" at the sight of the many officers with guns drawn on him, making him "incapable of fully understanding" their verbal commands.

During the standoff, Eastep kept holding the box cutter but would not remove his other hand from his pocket when asked. Multiple officers opened fire after Eastep brought his hand from his pocket, holding what police have described as only a "cylindrical piece of metal" that was not a weapon. The most recent version of the lawsuit states that object was Eastep's vape pen.

Nine officers shot, firing at least 33 bullets. Twelve bullets entered Eastep's body, an autopsy showed. Only four bullets entered the front of his body, while five entered through his back.

Later that day, MNPD posted a video to its YouTube channel with partial body camera footage of the shooting, including from cameras worn by Officers James Kidd and Sean Williams.

A day after the shooting, Chelesy Eastep said at a news conference that she wants "people to remember that Landon didn't deserve this. "

"Landon wasn't a bad guy. He was crying out for help, and his cries went completely unanswered," she said.

On Sept. 15, 2022, Chelesy Eastep filed the federal lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, represented by Lewisburg lawyer David McKenzie. A day later, Davidson County District Attorney Glenn Funk announced that he would not prosecute any of the officers involved in the shooting, saying that "all shots fired were legally justified."

While qualified immunity is intended "to shield officials from harassment, distraction, and liability when they perform their duties reasonably, it has been scrutinized as a way for public officials to dodge repercussions for bad behavior, with calls from criminal justice advocates to do away with it growing in recent years as more public attention has been placed on police violence. Judge Don Willett on the 5th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in 2018 wrote, "To some observers, qualified immunity smacks of unqualified impunity."

Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him at emealins@gannett.com or follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @EvanMealins.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Lawsuit against Nashville police for Landon Eastep shooting continues
Leader of Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPOe) Herbert Kickl speaks during a statement at the parliamentary inquiry into the "red-blue abuse of power" in Vienna. Georg Hochmuth/APA/dpa

The leader of Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPO), Herbert Kickl, has distanced himself from Moscow in the course of investigations into suspected Russian espionage in Austria.

He has "no personal connection to Russia at all," Kickl said on Thursday in parliament in Vienna, where he was questioned in a committee of enquiry.

Kickl, who served as interior minister from 2017 to 2019, appeared as a witness in a sub-committee to shed light on alleged abuse of power by social democratic and right-wing politicians.

The alleged espionage affair concerns a former Austrian intelligence officer, accused of being a double agent.

On Thursday, several questions centred on the former intelligence officer and his alleged espionage for Russia. Kickl said he had not known the official and, as a minister, had not been informed that the official had already been confronted with allegations of espionage at the time.

The alleged double agent is said to have passed on information to the former manager of collapsed German payment service provider Wirecard, Jan Marsalek, who is also suspected of working for Russia. According to Kickl, he had no direct contact with Marsalek, who is now fugitive.

However, the FPO leader confirmed that Marsalek had met with other officials from the Interior Ministry to discuss ideas for stopping refugees in North Africa.

Kickl's far-right party has been criticized for its position on Russia. The FPO opposes sanctions against Moscow. In February, Kickl demanded that "Relations with Russia must be normalized."

In 2016, the party concluded a friendship agreement with the party of Russian President Vladimir Putin, United Russia. According to the FPO, the pact was never implemented.

Ahead of Austria's parliamentary elections in autumn, the FPO is polling in first place with around 27%.

Leader of Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPOe) Herbert Kickl speaks during a statement at the parliamentary inquiry into the "red-blue abuse of power" in Vienna. Georg Hochmuth/APA/dpa
Legal expert weighs in on criminal probe of Virginia first-grader shooting: 'Enough for criminal charges'

Legal expert weighs in on criminal probe of Virginia first-grader shooting: 'Enough for criminal charges'

A legal expert weighed in after prosecutors in Virginia said that a criminal investigation into staff members at Richneck Elementary School, where a 6-year-old shot his teacher, would continue into the child's missing disciplinary files.

Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani, president of West Coast Trial Lawyers, told Fox News Digital that LaQuiche Parrott, the director of Elementary Leadership, could be charged with both criminal prosecution and civil liability.

"Taking or destroying records related to a criminal investigation is a crime," he said. "Parrott can be charged with obstruction of justice. This is in addition to the substantive child neglect charges that Parker is facing."

VIRGINIA SCHOOL IGNORED MANY BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS, VIOLENCE OF 6-YEAR-OLD WHO SHOT TEACHER

Rahmani said that this is a particularly interesting case because the case involves teachers who had an "affirmative duty" to protect their students.

"This is a unique case because a failure to act is usually not enough for a criminal prosecution, though it can give rise to civil liability," Rahmani said. "But because the teachers had an affirmative duty to protect their students, and they failed to do so, their inaction is enough for criminal charges."

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"And of course any attempt to cover up a crime or impede a criminal investigation is a separate charge," he added.

On Thursday, Newport News Commonwealths Attorney Howard Gwynn said at a news conference that prosecutors are working to decipher how the student's disciplinary records disappeared.

"Well work with the school system to try to ferret out how this happened," Gwynn said. "And based on the facts of the law, if we believe somebody else needs to be charged, trust me when I tell you, they will be charged."

VIRGINIA SCHOOL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FACES CHARGES AFTER 6-YEAR-OLD SHOT TEACHER

Gwynn's comments came after a special grand jury report about last years shooting at Richneck Elementary School brought up concerns about Parrotts "suspicious lack of memory" regarding the boys disciplinary file.

One file was returned by Parrott, but the file lacked the child's disciplinary records, the grand jury report said. The other was never found.

Attorney Diane Toscano said that the grand jury report laid out a "concerning trail of evidence" of the school allegedly "downplaying" the student's checkered past.

"The report lays out a concerning trail of evidence that apparently shows efforts by the school division to downplay disciplinary records prior to the shooting even taking place, and then hide them afterwards," Toscano said. "If the citizen panel believes this may have been a cover-up, which is their words, I have no reason to doubt them."

Toscano said that the residents in Newport News, Virginia, have "not forgotten" the tragedy that impacted their school community.

"The special grand jury impaneled with citizens from the city of Newport News spoke loudly and clearly," attorney Diane Toscano said. "They said it aint over yet. They said we have not forgotten. They said, No, Newport News school leadership, you will not escape accountability for this tragedy.'"

Briana Foster Newton, former Richneck Elementary School principal.

Ebony Parker, former Richneck assistant principal, is facing charges of felony child neglect.

The grand jury report stated that she showed a "shocking" lack of response to multiple warnings that the boy had a gun in the hours before he shot his first grade teacher, Ally Zwerner.

LAWYERS FOR VIRGINIA TEACHER SHOT BY 6-YEAR-OLD FILE $40M SUIT DETAILING HOW SCHOOL ALLEGEDLY IGNORED WARNINGS

The charging document alleged that Parker, who was responsible for Richneck students, "feloniously did commit a willful act or omission in the care of such students, in a manner so gross, wanton and culpable as to show reckless disregard for human life."

Parker, 39, was charged with eight felony counts which are each punishable by up to five years in prison.

The grand jury report revealed that the 6-year-old old student exhibited signs of violence prior to the shooting and should not have been enrolled in school.

The child "exhibited many behavioral problems" prior to the Jan. 6, 2023, incident where he shot his Zwerner with a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol.

The child was also reportedly disruptive during his kindergarten year to both fellow students and teacher Susan White, who was named in the grand jury report.

"Over the course of the kindergarten year the child exhibited many behavioral problems," the special grand jury report stated. "He was disruptive in class and to his teacher, Susan White. The child would get in other kids' faces and when removed from class by a counselor would occasionally hit or punch the counselor."

Abby Zwerner, a teacher who was shot at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Va., by her 6-year-old student last year, talks to a reporter Wednesday in Virginia Beach, Va.

In another instance, the student choked another teacher of his in 2021.

"On September 27, 2021, Ms. White was concluding breakfast with the students when the child went to dump his breakfast in the hallway trash can and never returned. Ms. White went to search for him and found him with the security guard. When Ms. White tried to take his hand and bring him back to class the child hit Ms. White and yelled, "No! I don't want to go back to class." The child then aggressively twisted and pulled down on the security guard's wrist. Due to his behavior, the security guard took the child to [assistant principal- Dr. Parker, while Ms. White returned to class," the report said.

"At some point, Ms. White was sitting in a kid's chair teaching the class . The child went up behind Ms. White placed his forearms in front of her neck and pulled down so hard she couldn't breathe, choking her. The teacher's assistant saw Ms. White being choked by the child and rescued her by pulling the child's arms off and removing him from the class."

Despite the child's behavior, the student was returned to class and allowed to stay after school administration said there was "no administrator available to deal with the situation."

And despite instances of physical aggression and profanity, the child was not given an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or considered for an alternative school placement, the report said.





Original article source: Legal expert weighs in on criminal probe of Virginia first-grader shooting: 'Enough for criminal charges'
* Historically, for the first time, the country's foreign trade scale has exceeded 10 trillion yuan in Q1, while the growth rate has hit a six-quarter high.

* Chinese products had garnered widespread acclaim globally, a testament to the country's focus on innovation and quality.

* It is expected that China's imports and exports will continue to show an upward trend in the second quarter of 2024, and the first half of the year is anticipated to register a growth trajectory.

BEIJING, April 12 (Xinhua) -- China's total import and export of goods expanded 5 percent year on year in yuan terms in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, setting new records in both scale and growth rate, official data showed Friday.

From January to March, the country's foreign trade in goods stood at 10.17 trillion yuan (about 1.43 trillion U.S. dollars), according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC).

Exports from the world's second-biggest economy were 4.9 percent higher year on year to reach 5.74 trillion yuan, while imports rose 5 percent to 4.43 trillion yuan, the data showed.

An aerial drone photo taken on March 12, 2024 shows vehicles for export parking at Jiangyin terminal of Fuzhou Port in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

TRADE BOOM

Historically, for the first time, the country's foreign trade scale has exceeded 10 trillion yuan during the same period, while the growth rate has hit a six-quarter high, GAC deputy head Wang Lingjun told a press conference.

In the first quarter, China's trade with countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and other BRICS nations has shown a growth rate that surpasses the overall growth rate.

Trade with BRI partner countries reached 4.82 trillion yuan, marking a 5.5 percent increase and accounting for 47.4 percent of China's total trade volume, the data showed. Trade with the European Union, the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan accounted for a combined share of 33.4 percent of the total.

Trade with Latin America and the five Central Asian countries has achieved double-digit growth. In the same period, the trade with traditional markets such as the United States and Japan has shown a positive recovery, with the decline in the first quarter imports and exports narrowing by 5.9 percentage points and 1.2 percentage points, respectively, compared to 2023.

Structurally, China's export portfolio has demonstrated strength in the machinery and electronics sector, as well as labor-intensive products, signaling the continued international competitiveness of these goods. Imports of bulk commodities and consumer goods have expanded steadily, indicating a healthy and growing domestic demand.

Wang said that Chinese products had garnered widespread acclaim globally, a testament to the country's focus on innovation and quality.

"The global popularity of Chinese engineering machinery is a direct result of their reliability, durability, and superior performance, along with comprehensive after-sales support," he said. "These machines are in high demand worldwide and are a common sight on major construction projects overseas."

Wang also underscored that China has consistently maintained its position as the world's second-largest import market for 15 consecutive years, with a cumulative import volume nearing 200 trillion yuan.

"In the first quarter of this year, we have seen a 'volume and price increase' in our imports, with import volume reaching a new high. This demonstrates that China's vast market presents significant opportunities for the world," Wang noted.

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 2, 2024 shows an international container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China's Tianjin. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

GROWTH TO STAY

Amid profound shifts in the international environment and numerous severe challenges facing global economic development, China's foreign trade sector is confronted with heightened tests, Wang said.

"However, amid these external pressures, the fundamental strength of China's economy remains on an upward trajectory, with a solid foundation underpinning the sustained improvement in its foreign trade," he noted.

It is expected that China's imports and exports will continue to show an upward trend in the second quarter of 2024, and the first half of the year is anticipated to register a growth trajectory, said Wang.

China has targeted its economic growth at around 5 percent for 2024, a goal that officials and experts believe is well within reach considering the country's sound economic fundamentals and supportive macroeconomic policy mix.

The latest trade figures have joined a series of positive economic data points emerging since March. The purchasing managers' index (PMI), a critical gauge of manufacturing and services sector health, has also reported improvements in March, with PMI for the manufacturing sector bouncing back to the expansion zone.

Looking ahead, Wang outlined customs initiatives, which include enhancing trade facilitation, improving port business environments, assisting enterprises with cost reduction and fee relief, and nurturing new drivers for foreign trade.

"We will introduce additional effective policy measures in a timely manner to fully support the qualitative and quantitative stability of China's foreign trade," he said.

(Video reporters: Li Cheng, Dai He, Deng Min, James Asande, Duncan, Yang Zhe, Hou Ming, Adewale Amzat, Hua Hongli, Nurdin Pallangyo; video editors: Zhang Yucheng, Hui Peipei, Zheng Xin) 
Less than half of voters say UK should protect Nato allies that fail to spend enough on defence

Nato has set a target for all members to spend 2 per cent of GDP on defence - Boris Grdanoski/AP

Fewer than half of Britons think the UK should protect Nato countries that refuse to meet the alliances defence spending target, a new poll for The Telegraph reveals.

A survey conducted this week shows scepticism among British voters towards the cornerstone of the Nato alliance, which mandates that an attack on one member is an attack on all.

Nato has set a target for all members to spend 2 per cent of GDP on defence, in an attempt to shore up collective defences against Russia and other hostile states.

Last year, just 11 of the 31 Nato states met the target, with Poland and the US topping the league tables by spending 3.9 per cent and 3.5 per cent of GDP on defence respectively.

France and Germany both missed the target, but have pledged to meet it in 2024, when Jens Stoltenberg, Natos secretary general, has said 18 countries will do the same.

Jens Stoltenberg, Nato's secretary general, has said more countries will hit the defence spending target in 2024 - KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP

The North Atlantic Treaty, which sets out the legal basis for Nato, includes a collective defence article that states that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all and that other members will come to the attacked states aid.

However, a poll conducted for The Telegraph by Redfield and Wilton Strategies shows that just 48 per cent of British voters believe states that do not meet the target should be defended.

Asked whether such states should be defended, 28 per cent said they should not, while the remainder said they did not know.

More than half of voters said they agreed or strongly agreed with the suggestion that Europes defence relies too much on the United States, which has a budget of $841 billion (718 billion).

Voters said that the US was the UKs most important ally, with 50 per cent of respondents ranking it in the top three most important, while Australia and France ranked second, with 31 per cent.

Lord West of Spithead, a former First Sea Lord, said it would be a very stupid thing to do to abandon Natos collective defence pact, even if member states did not meet the spending target.

I certainly feel annoyed that theyre not willing to stump up the full amount of cash, but I would not disavow Nato and say I would not come to their aid, he said.



I think [Vladimir] Putin will be delighted. Anything that has an effect on the alliance is good news for him, because he sees it as one of the things that stops him doing the dreadful things he wants to do.

Despite concerns from some voters about allies defence spending, the survey showed British voters overwhelmingly back the UKs membership of the alliance, with 71 per cent supporting or strongly supporting the idea.

The figure mirrors a similar poll conducted for the Telegraph in the US earlier this month, which found that 70 per cent think Washington should remain in the alliance but a third believed it should abandon countries that refuse to meet the spending target.

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Lord Cameron calls on UK to boost defence budget in response to Russian threat

Read more

Last month, Donald Trump said he would encourage Russia to do whatever the hell they want to any Nato member country that does not spend two per cent of GDP on the military.

After his comments were criticised, he later said they were a form of negotiation.

Philip van Scheltinga, research director at Redfield and Wilton Strategies, said: Our polling in both Britain and the United States makes it clear that theres overwhelming support for Nato and the goals of the alliance.

It is rare to see such unanimity on a policy issue. However, that support shouldnt be taken for granted by Nato allies.

Americans and British voters see Nato as a mutual commitment, not a charity.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
O.J. Simpson reacts as he is found not guilty in the death of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman in Los Angeles on Oct. 3, 1995. (Myung J. Chun / Associated Press)

To the editor: Amid all the hoopla erupting over O.J. Simpson's death, there's one widely overlooked reason why he was acquitted of murder despite an abundance of incriminating evidence.

For a conviction, a criminal defendant must be found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. That stiff standard of proof serves well to prevent the conviction of a factually innocent defendant, but it makes acquittal of a criminally culpable defendant much more likely than conviction of an innocent one.

With Simpson later found liable for $33.5 million in the civil trial for damages brought by his victims' survivors  where the burden of proof was "more likely than not"  and after his 2008 armed robbery conviction in Nevada, we can rest assured of one small comfort: History will overturn his murder acquittal.

M. Edward Alston, Santa Barbara

The writer is a retired deputy district attorney for Santa Barbara County.

..

To the editor: Now that Simpson has passed, his purported search for the "real killer" of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman also undoubtedly comes to an end. Conversely, the controversy surrounding his acquittal in the so-called trial of the century nearly 30 years ago lives on and most likely will for some time.

While it's understandable that Goldman's father deems the death of Simpson no great loss, the deaths of Nicole and Ron remain lamentable losses.

Perhaps the lingering unanswered question in this sad Simpson saga is whether it can be conclusively said that justice was truly served.

Tom Stapleton, Glendale

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Letters to the Editor: Hey, Arizona, try reducing the need for abortion by helping women and children

Protestors demonstrate at the Arizona Capitol in Phoenix after the U.S. Supreme Court overruled Roe vs. Wade on June 24, 2022. (Ross D. Franklin / Associated Press)

To the editor: Don't the legislators and activists trying to ban abortion realize that the decision to seek one is extremely complex? Many arrive at their decision after considering many factors, and it's often a heart-wrenching choice of last resort. ("Arizona's ban on abortion sets up the swing state for an election 2024 showdown," April 9)

Why not consider some plans that would actually reduce the number of abortions without robbing women of their rights or turning healthcare providers into criminals?

First, we need science-based, straightforward sex education in public schools to ensure that young people know the consequences of unprotected sex. Second, we need affordable, easily accessible contraception. Finally, we need to foster an open atmosphere where issues relating to reproduction can be freely discussed.

Beyond this, if we want to reduce demands for abortion, how about making life easier for those who get pregnant? Establish universal healthcare, paid leave and affordable child care for working parents. Universal preschool and after-school programs would help.

We should create a society in which women are viewed as equal citizens in every respect and free from the fear of domestic violence. If lawmakers are not willing to address these issues surrounding reproductive health, they have no right to poke their noses into the issue of abortion.

Laurie Jacobs, San Clemente

..

To the editor: Was it not too many years ago when Democrats were accused of being "flip floppers"? That became a pejorative condemning people for changing their minds after consideration of a subject.

Now, it seems, Republicans in Arizona are doing the same thing after the state Supreme Court ruled that a near-total ban on abortion passed in 1864 could go into effect. They are distancing themselves from the ruling in a blatant attempt to gain votes.

Do people really have that short a memory? How come it's OK now but it wasn't then?

Kathleen Walker, Los Osos, Calif.

..

To the editor: I remain perplexed by the naivete of U.S. Supreme Court justices.

In Dobbs vs. Jackson Women's Health Organization, Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. applied the doctrine of "originalism" to strike down a 50-year precedent that provided consistency on abortion for all Americans. Common sense should have informed him that placing the issue in the hands of 50 different state legislatures would result in the chaos that has ensued.

Just as the 2010 court ruling in Citizens United suggested that "independent" groups would remain separate from the campaigns they supported, the justices have demonstrated their misunderstanding of the way things work in the real world.

Noel Johnson, Glendale

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Letters to the Editor: Israel won't get peace with Benjamin Netanyahu in office

President Biden meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York last September. (Susan Walsh / Associated Press)

To the editor: Hopes for ending the war between Israel and Hamas anytime soon seem as slim as its underlying issues are complicated. ("Netanyahu's government is to blame for rift in historic Israel-U.S. alliance," editorial, April 9)

But it's become ever more clear that the surest way to peace hinges on a key prerequisite: removal of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from office.

The Israeli hostages' plight continually evokes painful memories of how Netanyahu's administration failed to anticipate and repel Hamas militants' barbaric Oct. 7 attack that claimed nearly 1,200 lives.

Hence Netanyahu views any resolution short of total annihilation of Hamas to be an existential threat to his political life, especially where he risks conviction of corruption charges in his long-pending criminal trial.

That's why Netanyahu brushes off how his military's pursuit of Hamas militants has killed more than 30,000 Palestinian civilians, mostly women and children  and constitutes an ever clearer violation of international law.

Biden must contend with a daunting truth that he dares not speak: The sooner Netanyahu leaves office, the sooner peace can be brokered.

Edgar M. Martinez, Orcutt, Calif.

..

To the editor: I agree that conditions should be placed on aid to Israel. But I'm not sure those conditions should be related to the Gaza war.

Israel's security depends on its ability to wage war against Hamas. How it should balance prosecuting this war and protecting civilians has been the matter of much debate, and there are no easy answers.

However, what is not up for debate, and what matters more in the long term, is Israel's refusal to support a Palestinian state and the continued expansion of illegal settlements. On this, Israel's position is inexcusable and indefensible.

It should be a no brainer to at the very least condition aid on Israel's policy shift on these positions.

Alan Osprey, Laguna Beach

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Liberated part of Kherson Oblast cut off from grid and has issues with water supply

The entire liberated part of Kherson Oblast has been cut off from the power grid as a result of recent Russian attacks, leading to failures in the water supply system.

Source: Roman Mrochko, Head of Kherson City Military Administration

Quote: "The lack of electricity throughout the liberated part of Kherson Oblast as a result of enemy attacks on critical infrastructure in neighbouring Mykolaiv Oblast has led to failures in our districts water supply system."

Details: Due to water hammers caused by the power outages, the water supply network in the village of Tekstylne near Kherson has experienced disruptions in water supply.

Specialists from Kherson Vodokanal [the water supply service - ed.] will have increased the pressure in the water supply network by the end of the day and the people of Tekstylne will have water for the weekend. Next week, the specialists will start repairing the damaged section of the water supply system.

"If possible, please stockpile water to meet your needs," added Mrochko.

Background: As of the morning of 12 April, 399 settlements have been cut off from the power grid, with power outages occurring in Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv and Kherson oblasts because of combat action. There have been emergency power outages in Kharkiv Oblast and about 210,000 households have been left without electricity.

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From left, Licking County Commissioners Tim Bubb, Duane Flowers and Rick Black during a meeting on Thursday. The commissioners unanimously voted to prohibit utility-scale solar farms, which are defined as producing 50 megawatts or more, from Etna Township.

Etna Township has welcomed numerous housing developments and warehouses in recent years. But there is one industry that won't find a home in the Licking County township: large-scale solar farms.

Utility-scale solar farms, which are defined as producing 50 megawatts or more, are now prohibited in Etna Township after the Licking County Commissioners approved an exclusionary zone Thursday for the entire township. The commissioners held a hearing about the request last month.

In January, the Etna trustees requested the commissioners bar utility-scale solar farms within the township. The commissioners have the authority to declare a township, or even the entire county, an exclusionary zone for large solar fields. Smaller solar fields are subject to local zoning. Etna has already prohibited community-scale solar farms, between 5-50 megawatts, when it updated its zoning code in December.

Before voting, Commissioners Tim Bubb, Rick Black and Duane Flowers shared numerous reasons why solar farms aren't a fit in Etna, with the roughly 15 people in attendance.

Etna Township has already developed so much over the past decade because of its location along Interstate 70, and Bubb said within the next few decades, Etna will become a suburban township as more homes and businesses are built there.

"It's going to look a lot like a Columbus suburb, I think. We're already seeing that with the growth of residential, with the growth of schools in the area, with commercial," he said. "I think Etna Township is feeling the development pressure probably unlike any other township in the county. My personal opinion is at this point, an industrial solar or a massive solar project just doesn't have a place in Etna Township."

Bubb also said he's concerned that the U.S. is becoming too reliant on intermittent power sources, like solar and wind energy. He said there are too many variables when it comes to solar, such as cloudy days and damage from hail storms or tornadoes, for solar to be considered a reliable energy source.

"Our need for electricity  just here in Licking County, if you look at the development here  is 24/7/365," Bubb said. "We need reliable power, whether it's a combination of natural gas, coal, nuclear, whatever the sources are. I think as a country, we can't sell ourselves short in terms of too much over reliance on intermittent power."

Flowers said to him, the matter is similar to zoning. Townships have a right to to zone areas to allow or prohibit certain uses, and the Etna Township Trustees are doing that through the request to prohibit solar farms.

"I believe there's places  within the state of Ohio where solar can be built without causing any damage to folks property rights living next door," he said.

This is the second solar exclusionary zone the commissioners have approved in recent months. Last year Liberty Township asked for a ban, and the commissioners approved its request in November.

St. Albans and Licking townships have also requested to become exclusionary zones. Bubb said Thursday the commissioners sent letters to the remaining Licking County townships to gauge their interest on solar exclusionary zones for their townships as well as explain the process. With 25 township's in the county, Bubb said the commissioners don't want to handle these requests one by one.

"If there's several other areas that are interested, we're willing to consider that and do the public hearings and have that deliberation," Bubb said.

Two solar farms  one in Harrison Township and another in Hartford and Bennington townships  have been approved for Licking County, but neither project has started construction.

Bubb said the projects were approved by the Ohio Power Siting Board, which is responsible for approving new sources of power in the state, before counties had the authority to create exclusionary zones.

The commissioners said they are not aware of any other pending solar projects in Licking County.

Statewide, about 50 such projects are in development or have recently been completed, including a Madison County project covering 6,050 acres that the state approved March 21.

mdevito@gannett.com

740-607-2175

Twitter: @MariaDeVito13

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Licking County bans large solar farms from Etna Township
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The sentencing of Lisa Spoors on Wednesday, charged with five years in prison following the hit-and-run death of a 15-year-old in Fresno, has highlighted what one attorney warns is a growing problem for pedestrians.

I think most people are surprised to know that, in the state of California, if you are ordinarily negligent [while driving] and cause someones death, its typically charged as a misdemeanor, said Fresno-based attorney Kevin Little in an interview on Thursday. Which means you wont spend any time in jail.

Everything that led up to Lisa Spoors sentencing in the hit-and-run death of a 15-year-old student

According to Little, ordinary negligence is a broad term that includes (but is not limited to) speeding, failing to yield, and even running a stop sign. Little says if someone is found to exhibit ordinary negligence they can end up only getting a misdemeanor  even if they kill someone.

In the case of Lisa Spoors, Little says that while he may not question the verdict  he does acknowledge the publics perception of it.

The eyeball test, right? Public perception is that this defendant may have gotten off lightly.

Little cited the verdict and Spoors initial arrest as part of the controversy surrounding the case.

Its concerning, Little said. Talking about the eyeball test, someone that waits five days to turn themselves in is not a good look.

Little also cited the lack of transparency with Rashad Al-Hakims family after his death. Ragina Bell, Al-Hakims mother, said she found out Lisa Spoors was wanted in connection with her sons death by searching public records.

The victims family members should not be in the role of having to investigate.

Rashad Al-Hakim was 15 years old, crossing the street near Hoover High, when he was struck. Lisa Spoors, who was found to be under the influence, drove away from the scene. On Wednesday, Spoors was sentenced to five years in prison  of which Spoors would have to serve 16 months following the verdict due to time already served, according to Spoors lawyer.

Give him justice: As Lisa Spoors is sentenced, victims family fights for more

Little says Spoors case is indicative of a larger cultural pattern and a developing problem.

According to Little, pedestrians always have the right of way. However, he also says it is all too common for drivers not to yield  and ordinary negligence can protect those drivers even if they hit and kill someone.

He also says the punishments for drivers can be much less severe if drivers choose not to comply with the law, much like in the case of Spoors who fled the scene.

If youre not stopped reasonably after [for DUI] no one can get timely blood or breath from you, Little said. The penalties become much less severe and youre looking at less serious charges.

Little says distracted drivers can be just as dangerous as those who are under the influence behind the wheel.

We need to do something to discourage what appears to be increasingly common behavior, Little said.

Little added that, with people becoming increasingly dependent on their phones, it is up to lawmakers and law enforcement to find a solution to this new problem.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
Lithuania to send Ukraine equipment from its own power plants

Smoke rises over the site of a missile attack by the Russian troops on the CHP in Desnianskyi district of the capital, Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. Stock photo: Getty Images

Lithuania is to send Ukraine equipment from the Vilnius Thermal Power Plant (TPP), as well as some equipment from the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), to repair damaged energy infrastructure.

Source: Dainius Kreivys, Lithuanian Energy Minister, as reported by lrt.lt

Details: The Lithuanian authorities will send equipment from the now-inactive Vilnius TPP, as well as some of the equipment from the Ignalina NPP and energy company warehouses. A 30-kilowatt transformer will also be shipped to Ukraine.

The Vilnius TPP has not been operational since 2016, but its equipment is used to do preventive maintenance and test devices in accordance with planned schedules, the Lithuanians said.

"We will give them everything they need. 80% of the network in Kharkiv has been destroyed, both heat and electricity. Unless we help, the Ukrainians will be unable to restore the network by winter, and things will be extremely difficult," Kreivys said.

Background:

Ukraine needs to strengthen its air defence systems to protect energy facilities from missile attacks by Russia, in order to prevent power outages in the summer when electricity consumption approaches winter peak levels.

Ukrainians are likely to face power outages and consumption restrictions during the summer.

Lithuania is ready to deliver equipment for the restoration and repair of Ukraine's energy facilities.

Lithuanias Energy Ministry has proposed dismantling its decommissioned thermal power plants for spare parts and transferring the equipment for the needs of the Ukrainian energy system.

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AKRON, Ohio (WJW)  The man convicted in a deadly road rage shooting on a local interstate last year was sentenced to up to 17 1/2 years in prison on Friday.

Dacarrei Kinard, 31, of Columbus, was indicted on murder charges, but jurors last month convicted him on lesser charges of voluntary manslaughter and felonious assault.

Former Strongsville football coach indicted on sex charges involving minors at West Geauga schools

Kinard shot and killed 40-year-old George Geo Jensen II of Akron on May 17, 2023, while the man was driving home from work on Interstate 76 in Norton, in what authorities said was an apparent road rage shooting.

U.S. Marshals and Columbus police arrested Kinard in Columbus later that month, after a search for the black Camaro believed to have been driven by Kinard, which was seen on surveillance cameras on the highway alongside Jensens car.

My heart goes out to the family of George Jensen, county Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovich is quoted in a Friday news release. We are pleased Dacarrei Kinard will spend a significant amount of time in prison. Thank you to the hard-working assistant prosecutors who fought for justice for the Jensen family.

Nancy Keenan, a close friend of Jensens, on Friday said the tragedy could have been prevented with a little bit of patience, a little bit of kindness and a little self control.

One by one, Jensens loved ones took the stand on Friday to give impact statements, illustrating a man beloved and revered for his compassion and intelligence, while pleading for the strongest possible punishment for his killer.

Allison Kee-Jensen, the mans wife of 13 years  now widow  said her husband was a lover of music, art and bad movies. He could often be found tinkering with something, whether it be a cooking recipe, a car or a computer  his rational, mathematic mind complementing my free spirit.

Both of you acted impulsively  both of you too proud to stand down, she said to Kinard. Once day, you will go home to your family. You will walk through your door again  hopefully after a long time.

I do not want you to rot in prison. I want you to grow. Meanwhile, I will spend the rest of my life waiting for Geo to not walk through the door.

Jensens younger brother Anthony, a former active duty combat medic, said in a written statement that his brothers slaying triggered symptoms of recurring post-traumatic stress disorder  night terrors involving his past patients, mass casualty events and the sounds of gunshots that wake him up at night.

Anthony remembered his brother as a politically conscious person who despised violence and never carried weapons.

15 members of violent Cleveland street gang charged in indictment: DOJ

Kinard delivered a brief apology to the court.

Im very sorry. I never meant for any of this to happen, he said. I wish I could go back in time and take back my actions.

Several of Kinards family members also addressed the court, begging for leniency, with his father Toby Rushing asking Jensens family to please forgive our son.

Kinards mother Tamara Kinard also apologized to Jensens family, saying the shooting was out-of-character for kind-hearted and reserved son.

I really dont even know what to say. Its just hard to be here in this situation, Tamara said. I just want to put some clarity on my sons character. He is not who people see on the TV because of this case.

While the anguish of Jensens family members was on display, so was their anger.

I hate you, Dacarrei Kinard. From the bottom of my soul, I hate you, said Jensens longtime friend Scott Keenan. Jesus may forgive you. I will never.

Thats the last time Im going to use your name. You get a number now. Someone will tell you when and what you can eat, when you can pee, when you can sleep. You will be in a cage like the animal you are.

After the hearing concluded and Kinard was led away by sheriffs deputies, members of the two families exchanged bitter words. The confrontation was quickly quelled by deputies and the judge.

1 dead in early Friday house fire

Prosecutors asked for a total of 20 to 25 years in prison.

Common Pleas Court Judge Kathryn Michael on Friday handed down a sentence of five to seven-and-a-half years in prison on his charges of voluntary manslaughter and felonious assault, which merged at sentencing. The five-year firearm specifications attached to those charges must also be served consecutively, for a total sentence of 15 to 17 1/2 years.

Hell also be subject to parole for another two to five years upon release.

I dont know what led up to [the shooting], said Judge Michael. All the people in this courtroom are affected by what happened that day.

Your actions that day took you away from your family, it took Mr. Jensen away from his  and none of it makes any sense, because it didnt have to happen, the judge said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
LATEST: Many roads remain closed after record rainfall Thursday

Heavy rain has caused flash flooding in the area and Severe Weather Team 11 is working to track conditions in your neighborhood.

Rain will taper to showers by Friday morning, but more rain will develop Friday afternoon and evening.

RELATED COVERAGE: Flooding a widespread concern Friday as rain lingers around Pittsburgh Region

Area rivers will rise sharply with river flooding possible.

CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE RADAR

LIVE UPDATES BELOW:

UPDATE 10:12 p.m.:

PennDOT offered additional updates on road closures:

Allegheny County

Route 8 (Washington Boulevard) between Route 130 (Allegheny River Boulevard) and Negley Run Road - Closed

Route 48 at Ripple Road in White Oak Borough  Closed

Route 48 (Long Run Road) between Cool Springs Road and Marshall Drive in White Oak Borough - Closed

I-279 southbound to eastbound I-376 Interstate Connector in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

I-376 (Parkway East) westbound at the Grant Street exit in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 1017 (Yutes Run Road) between Main Street and Tawney Run Road in Springdale Township - Closed

Route 2003 (Church Hollow Road) between McVicker Lane and Salka Lane in Forward Township - Closed

Route 2046 (Streets Run Road) between Glass Run Road and Brentwood Road in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 2058 (Verona Road) between Sandy Creek Road and Mt. Carmel Road  Closed

Route 2128 (10th Street Bypass) between the Fort Duquesne Bridge and Fort Duquesne Boulevard in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 4036 (Big Sewickley Creek Road) between Hoenig Road and Turkeyfoot Road in Bell Acres Borough  Lane restriction

Route 4036 (Big Sewickley Creek Road) between Camp Meeting Road and Metz Road in Belle Acres Borough  Lane restriction

Route 4080 (Toms Run Road/Duff Road) between Ohio River Boulevard and Duff Road in Allepo and Kilbuck townships - Closed

Beaver County

Route 51 (Constitution Boulevard) between Cove Hill Road and Fallston Street in Fallston Borough  Lane restriction

Route 65 between Mercer Road and Country Club Drive in North Sewickley Township  Closed

Route 588 between Veka Drive and Pine Run Road in Marion Township  Closed

Route 1005 (Celia Road) between Chapel Drive and Shady Rest Road in North Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 1006 (Mercer Road) between Route 65 and Route 288 in Franklin Township  Closed

Route 1008 (Shady Rest Road) between McKim Way and Celia Road in Franklin Township - Closed

Route 1015 (Hartzell Road) between Route 588 and Old Furnace Road in Marion Township - Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creek Road) between Route 68 and Mellon Road in New Sewickley Township  Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creed Road) between Wises Grove Road and Tulip Drive in New Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 2003 (Hoenig Road) between Big Sewickley Creek Road and Mason Road in Economy Borough  Closed

Route 3013 (Independence Road) between Village Road and Bryson Road in Hopewell Township  Closed

Route 3019 (Raccoon Creek Road) between Mowry Road and Route 18 in Potter Township - Closed

Route 3020 (Service Creek Road) between Parish Drive and Valley View Road in Independence Township - Closed

Route 4027 (Darlington Road) between 8th Street and Cove Hill Road  Closed (due to a slide)

Route 4037 (Barkley Hill Road) between Route 68 and Nicholas Drive in Industry Borough  Closed

Lawrence County

Route 1003 (Old Plank Road) between Mercer Road and Maitland Lane in Neshannock Township  Closed

Route 2013 (Mt Herman Church Road) between Route 422 to Frew Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

UPDATE 10 p.m.:

PennDOT has given the following update on road closures:

Armstrong

 Craigsville Road/Yellow Dog Road between Airport Road, Yellow Dog Road and Craigsville Road in West Franklin

 NEW  Route 1033 Johnston Avenue/Oak Avenue between Lower Hayes Road in Rayburn Township and River Hill Road in Boggs Township

 NEW  Route 1004 at the Poseytown Road, Scenic Road intersection in Madison Township

 NEW  Route 2026  Mill Hill Road between Garretts Run Road and Iron Bridge Road in Burrell Township

 NEW  Route 3013 Nicola Road/Mushroom Farm Road/Nichola Road between Hindman Hill Road and Valley View Road in West Franklin Township

 NEW  Route 356 in Freeport near intersection with 2nd Street  closed due to a slide. Crews on scene doing clean-up. Working to get one lane open as soon as possible.

Butler

 Now Open - Route 38 between Exit: US 422 West and Hoon Road, Pine Tract Road in Center Township

 Now Open - Route 1016 between Hendricks Road in Butler Township and Route 38  Oneida Valley Road in Summit Township

 Now Open - Route 3006 Renfrew Road between Hicks Road and Three Degree Road in Penn Township

 Route 68 between Route 528 - Lindsay Road in Jackson Township and Washington Street Evans City. Detour for 68 West: Route 3015 South to Route 228, to Route 19 to Route 528. For 68 East: Route 528 North to Route 19 South, to Route 228 East, to Route 3015.

 Route 308 West Sunbury Road between Kyle Road and Goff Station Road in Boyers Township

 Route 4012 Boyers Road/Cemetery Road between Oakland Road in Marion Township and Kohlmeyer Road in Venango Township

UPDATE 4:15 p.m.:

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is advising motorists of the following weather-related road closures.

Armstrong

Now Open - Iron Bridge Road between Horseshoe Drive, Stokes Road and South Scenic Road in South Buffalo Township

Now Open - Route 3013 - Nicola Road/Mushroom Farm Road/Nichola Road between M&M Lime Company Drive and Fennelton Road in West Franklin Township

Craigsville Road/Yellow Dog Road between Airport Road, Yellow Dog Road and Craigsville Road in West Franklin

NEW  Route 1033 Johnston Avenue/Oak Avenue between Lower Hayes Road in Rayburn Township and River Hill Road in Boggs Township

NEW  Route 1004 at the Poseytown Road, Scenic Road intersection in Madison Township

Butler

Route 38 between Exit: US 422 West and Hoon Road, Pine Tract Road in Center Township

Route 1016 between Hendricks Road in Butler Township and Route 38  Oneida Valley Road in Summit Township

Route 3006 Renfrew Road between Hicks Road and Three Degree Road in Penn Township

Now Open - Route 3007 Benbrook Road/Three Degree Road/Valencia Road/Meridian Road between Smith Road and Beacon Light Road in Penn Township

Now Open - Route 3025 Little Creek Road/Yellow Creek Road between Little Creek Road and East Lancaster Road in Lancaster Township

Route 68 between Route 528 - Lindsay Road in Jackson Township and Washington Street Evans City. Detour for 68 West: Route 3015 South to Route 228, to Route 19 to Route 528. For 68 East: Route 528 North to Route 19 South, to Route 228 East, to Route 3015.

Route 308 West Sunbury Road between Kyle Road and Goff Station Road in Boyers Township

Route 4012 Boyers Road/Cemetery Road between Oakland Road in Marion Township and Kohlmeyer Road in Venango Township

Now Open - Route 2012 Dinnerbell Road between Victory Road and Dinnerbell Road, Golden City Road in Jefferson Township

UPDATE 3:23 p.m.:

Allegheny County Emergency Services (ACES) is urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel following what they called life-threatening flooding.

County officials said Swiftwater response teams were activated countywide and there have been around two dozen rescues in Oakdale and South Fayette during Thursdays storms. Nine were in Oakdale and 15 were in South Fayette, all from vehicles and structures.

Dozens of roads were also closed Thursday night due to flood damage. Many of them remain closed, official said.

UPDATE 1:15 p.m.:

The National Weather Service reports this is likely the most rainfall from April 1-11 on record.

Month to date rainfall totals so far across the region...most likely rainiest Apr 1st - Apr 11th on record for most locations. pic.twitter.com/hlgkn0wKYU  NWS Pittsburgh (@NWSPittsburgh) April 12, 2024

UPDATE 12:15 p.m.:

McDonald Borough in Washington County declared a state of emergency, citing extensive damage throughout the town.

The mayor said four large roll-off dumpsters for storm debris to be dumped in have been ordered, although there is no estimate for when those will arrive.

UPDATE 12 p.m.:

PennDOT is advising motorists that portions of the following state roadways are closed or restricted due to flooding as of noon on Friday:

Allegheny County

Route 8 (Washington Boulevard) between Route 130 (Allegheny River Boulevard) and Negley Run Road - Closed

Route 48 at Ripple Road in White Oak Borough  Closed

Route 1013 (Saxonburg Boulevard) between Reaghard Drive and Ramsey Road in West Deer Township  Closed

Route 1034 (Bull Creek Road) between Route 366 and Lardintown Road in Fawn Township - Closed

Route 2001 (Bunola River Road) between Cliff Mill Drive and Elkhorn Road in Forward Township  Closed

Route 2046 (Streets Run Road) between Glass Run Road and Brentwood Road in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 2058 (Verona Road) between Sandy Creek Road and Mt. Carmel Road - Closed

Route 3026 (Millers Run Road) between Crest Street and Morgan Hill Road in South Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3048 (Noblestown Road) between Gormley Avenue and Laurel Hill Road in North Fayette Township  lane restrictions

Route 3072 (Montour Run Road) between I-376 and Marketplace Boulevard in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3075 (Hookstown Grade Road) between Montour Run Road and FedEx Drive in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3103 (McKee Road) between Route 978 and Crossroads Drive in Oakdale Borough  Closed

Route 4036 (Big Sewickley Creek Road) between Hoenig Road and Turkeyfoot Road in Bell Acres Borough  lane restrictions

Route 4036 (Big Sewickley Creek Road) between Camp Meeting Road and Metz Road in Belle Acres Borough  lane restrictions

Route 4080 (Toms Run Road/Duff Road) between Ohio River Boulevard and Duff Road in Allepo and Kilbuck townships -Closed

Beaver County

Route 51 (Constitution Boulevard) between Cove Hill Road and Fallston Street in Fallston Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 65 between Mercer Road and Country Club Drive in North Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 588 between Veka Drive and Pine Run Road in Marion Township  Closed

Route 1005 (Celia Road) between Chapel Drive and Shady Rest Road in North Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 1006 (Mercer Road) between Route 65 and Route 288 in Franklin Township  Closed

Route 1008 (Shady Rest Road) between McKim Way and Celia Road in Franklin Township

Route 1015 (Hartzell Road) between Route 588 and Old Furnace Road in Marion Township - Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creek Road) between Route 68 and Mellon Road in New Sewickley Township  Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creed Road) between Wises Grove Road and Tulip Drive in New Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 2003 (Hoenig Road) between Big Sewickley Creek Road and Mason Road in Economy Borough  Closed

Route 3013 (Independence Road) between Village Road and Bryson Road in Hopewell Township  Closed

Route 3020 (Service Creek Road) between Parish Drive and Valley View Road in Independence Township - Closed

Route 3023 (Park Road) between Route 30 and Hookstown Grade Road in Independence Township  Closed

Route 4027 (Darlington Road) between 8th Street and Cove Hill Road  Closed (due to a slide)

Route 4037 (Barkley Hill Road) between Route 68 and Nicholas Drive in Industry Borough  Closed

Lawrence County

Route 1003 (Old Plank Road) between Mercer Road and Maitland Lane in Neshannock Township  Closed

Route 2013 (Mt Herman Church Road) between Route 422 to Frew Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

Armstrong County

Iron Bridge Road between Horseshoe Drive, Stokes Road and South Scenic Road in South Buffalo Township

Route 3014 - Nicola Road/Mushroom Farm Road/Nichola Road between M&M Lime Company Drive and Fennelton Road in West Franklin Township

Craigsville Road/Yellow Dog Road between Airport Road, Yellow Dog Road and Craigsville Road in West Franklin

Butler County

Route 38 between Exit: US 422 West and Hoon Road, Pine Tract Road in Center Township

Route 1016 between Hendricks Road in Butler Township and Route 38  Oneida Valley Road in Summit Township

Route 3006 Renfrew Road between Hicks Road and Three Degree Road in Penn Township

Now Open: Route 3007 Benbrook Road/Three Degree Road/Valencia Road/Meridian Road between Watters Station Road and West Road in Forward Township and between Smith Road and Beacon Light Road in Penn Township

Route 3025 Little Creek Road/Yellow Creek Road between Little Creek Road and East Lancaster Road in Lancaster Township

Route 68 between Route 528 - Lindsay Road in Jackson Township and Washington Street Evans City. Detour for 68 West: Route 3015 South to Route 228, to Route 19 to Route 528. For 68 East: Route 528 North to Route 19 South, to Route 228 East, to Route 3015.

Now Open: Route 68 between Seven Hills Road in Oakland township and Slippery Rock Street in Chicora.

Now Open: Route 138 between and Campbell Road and Stoops Road in Concord Township

Route 308 West Sunbury Road between Kyle Road and Goff Station Road in Boyers Township

Route 4012 Boyers Road/Cemetery Road between Oakland Road in Marion Township and Kohlmeyer Road in Venango Township

Route 2012 Dinnerbell Road between Victory Road and Dinnerbell Road, Golden City Road in Jefferson Township

UPDATE 10:25 a.m.:

The Bathtub section of the Parkway East will close due to flooding concerns.

TRAFFIC ALERT: BATHTUB SCHEDULED TO CLOSE AT NOON . PennDOT has announced that the Bathtub Section of the Parkway East and Interstate Connector Ramp from Ft Duq Bridge will close at 12pm, due to Flooding Concerns. #WPXITraffic #PittsburghTraffic #WPXI https://t.co/5mPFseci4x pic.twitter.com/QuYO8xbvVi  WPXI Traffic (@WPXITraffic) April 12, 2024

PennDOT says the closure will start at noon.

The Interstate Connector Ramp from the Fort Duquesne Bridge will also close.

UPDATE 10:10 a.m.:

The City of Washington mayor has declared a state of emergency due to rainfall and weather conditions.

UPDATE 10 a.m.:

PennDOT advises motorists that portions of the following state roadways are closed or restricted due to flooding as of 9:30 a.m. Friday morning:

Allegheny County

Route 8 (Washington Boulevard) between Route 130 (Allegheny River Boulevard) and Negley Run Road - Closed

Route 48 at Ripple Road in White Oak Borough  Closed

Route 837 (Kennywood Boulevard) between Mifflin Street and Glenn Street in West Mifflin Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 837 (Duquesne Road) between Route 148 and and

Route 1013 (Saxonburg Boulevard) between Reaghard Drive and Ramsey Road in West Deer Township  Closed

Route 1034 (Bull Creek Road) between Route 366 and Lardintown Road in Fawn Township

Route 2001 (Bunola River Road) between Cliff Mill Drive and Elkhorn Road in Forward Township  Closed

Route 2046 (Streets Run Road) between Glass Run Road and Brentwood Road in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 2058 (Verona Road) between Sandy Creek Road and Mt. Carmel Road - Closed

Route 3014 (Piney Fork Road) between Snowden and Connor Road in South Park Township - Closed

Route 3026 (Millers Run Road) between Crest Street and Morgan Hill Road in South Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3048 (Noblestown Road) between Gormley Avenue and Laurel Hill Road in North Fayette Township  lane restrictions

Route 3072 (Montour Run Road) between I-376 and Marketplace Boulevard in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3075 (Hookstown Grade Road) between Montour Run Road and FedEx Drive in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3103 (McKee Road) between Route 978 and Crossroads Drive in Oakdale Borough  Closed

Route 4009 (North Avenue/Peoples Road/Evergreen Road) between Evergreen Road and North Avenue in Shaler Township  Closed

Route 4036 (Big Sewickley Creek Road) between Hoenig Road and Turkeyfoot Road in Bell Acres Borough - Closed

Route 4036 (Big Sewickley Creek Road) between Camp Meeting Road and Metz Road in Belle Acres Borough - Closed

Route 4080 (Toms Run Road/Duff Road) between Ohio River Boulevard and Duff Road in Allepo and Kilbuck townships -Closed

Beaver County

Route 51 (Constitution Boulevard) between Cove Hill Road and Fallston Street in Fallston Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 588 between Veka Drive and Pine Run Road in Marion Township - Closed

Route 1006 (Mercer Road) between Route 65 and Route 288 in Franklin Township  Closed

Route 1008 (Shady Rest Road) between McKim Way and Celia Road in Franklin Township

Route 1015 (Hartzell Road) between Route 588 and Old Furnace Road in Marion Township - Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creek Road) between Route 68 and Mellon Road in New Sewickley Township  Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creed Road) between Wises Grove Road and Tulip Drive in New Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 2003 (Hoenig Road) between Big Sewickley Creek Road and Mason Road in Economy Borough  Closed

Route 3013 (Independence Road) between Village Road and Bryson Road in Hopewell Township - Closed

Route 3023 (Park Road) between Route 30 and Hookstown Grade Road in Independence Township  Closed

Route 4027 (Darlington Road) between 8th Street and Cove Hill Road  Closed (due to a slide)

Route 4037 (Barkley Hill Road) between Route 68 and Nicholas Drive in Industry Borough  Closed

Lawrence County

Route 1003 (Old Plank Road) between Mercer Road and Maitland Lane in Neshannock Township  Closed

Route 2013 (Mt Herman Church Road) between Route 422 to Frew Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

Route 2013 (Mill Bridge Road) between Fairview School Road and McConnells Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

UPDATE 8:36 a.m.:

Portions of the following state roadways are closed or restricted due to flooding, PennDOT says.

Allegheny County

Route 8 (Washington Boulevard) between Route 130 (Allegheny River Boulevard) and Negley Run Road - Closed

Route 48 at Ripple Road in White Oak Borough  Closed

Route 837 (Kennywood Boulevard) between Mifflin Street and Glenn Street in West Mifflin Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 1013 (Saxonburg Boulevard) between Reaghard Drive and Ramsey Road West Deer Township - Closed

Route 2001 (Bunola River Road) between Cliff Mill Drive and Elkhorn Road in Forward Township  Closed

Route 2046 (Streets Run Road) between Glass Run Road and Brentwood Road in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 2058 (Verona Road) between Sandy Creek Road and Mt. Carmel Road - Closed

Route 3006 (Boyce Road) at Mayview Road in South Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3013 (Brownville Road) between Piney Fork Road to McCorkle Road in South Park Township  Closed

Route 3014 (Piney Fork Road) between Snowden and Connor Road in South Park Township - Closed

Route 3026 (Millers Run Road) between Crest Street and Morgan Hill Road in South Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3048 (Noblestown Road) between at Walkers Mill Road in North Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3072 (Montour Run Road) between I-376 and Marketplace Boulevard in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3075 (Hookstown Grade Road) between Montour Run Road and FedEx Drive in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3103 (McKee Road) between Route 978 and Crossroads Drive in Oakdale Borough  Closed

Route 4009 (North Avenue/Peoples Road/Evergreen Road) between Evergreen Road and North Avenue in Shaler Township  Closed

Route 4029 (McAleer Road) between Rochester Road to Mt. Nebo Road in Ohio and Franklin Park Township  Closed

Route 4080 (Toms Run Road/Duff Road) between Ohio River Boulevard and Duff Road in Allepo and Kilbuck townships -Closed

Beaver County

Route 51 (Constitution Boulevard) between Cove Hill Road and Fallston Street in Fallston Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 1006 (Mercer Road) between Route 65 and Route 288 in Franklin Township  Closed

Route 1015 (Hartzell Road) between Route 588 and Old Furnace Road in Marion Township - Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creek Road) between Route 68 and Mellon Road in New Sewickley Township  Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creed Road) between Wises Grove Road and Tulip Drive in New Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 2003 (Hoenig Road) between Big Sewickley Creek Road and Mason Road in Economy Borough  Closed

Route 3013 (Independence Road) between Village Road and Bryson Road in Hopewell Township - Closed

Route 3023 (Park Road) between Route 30 and Hookstown Grade Road in Independence Township  Closed

Route 4027 (Darlington Road) between 8th Street and Cove Hill Road  Closed (due to a slide)

Route 4037 (Barkley Hill Road) between Route 68 and Nicholas Drive in Industry Borough  Closed

Lawrence County

Route 1003 (Old Plank Road) between Mercer Road and Maitland Lane in Neshannock Township  Closed

Route 2012 (Union Valley Road) between Old Pittsburgh Street and Savanna Road in Shenango Township Closed

Route 2013 (Mt Herman Church Road) between Route 422 to Frew Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

Route 2013 (Mill Bridge Road) between Fairview School Road and McConnels Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

Route 3011 (Huston Road) between Beaver Dam Road and the PA Turnpike in Enon Valley Borough  Closed

Greene County

Route 18 between Hoges Run Road and Grinnage Run Road in Center Township.

Northbound Route 18 between Water Dam Road in Franklin Township and Garner Run Road in Washington Township.

Southbound Route 19 between Rolling Meadows Road and Orchard Road in Franklin Township.

Eastbound Route 21 (Roy E. Furman Highway) between Green Valley Road and Muddy Creek Road in Center Township

Route 2003 (Sugar Run Road) between Little Shannon Road and Bacon Run Road in Perry Township.

Route 2003 (Sugar Run Road) between the WV state line and Wades Run Road in Perry Township.

Route 2006 (Davistown Road) between Mt. Morris Road and Steele Hill Road in Dunkard Township.

Route 2017 (Muddy Creek Road) between Carmichaels Road and Jackson Lane in Cumberland Township.

Route 2018 (Kirby Garards Fort Road) at the intersection of Dutch Run Road in Whiteley Township.

Route 2018 (Kirby Garards Fort Road) between Foley Road and Kirby Road/Patterson Road in Whiteley Township.

Washington County

Route 50 (Millers Run Road) between Route 980 and Muse-Bishop Road in Cecil Township.

Route 221 between Highland Ridge Drive in Buffalo Township and Verner Lane in South Franklin Township.

Route 221 (Green Valley Road) between Route 40 West and Pleasant Valley Road in Buffalo Township.

Route 221 between Route 231 (Claysville Road) and Oak Ridge Road in Blaine Township.

Route 917 between Almond Road and Hetherington Road in Somerset Township.

Route 3001 (Brush Run Road/Lake Road) between Route 40 (National Pike) and Ealy Road in Donegal Township.

Route 231 between Route 18 (Prosperity Pike) and Enon Church Road in East Finley Township.

Route 1010 (Georgetown Road) between Spring Avenue in Cecil Township and Buckeye Street in Peters Township.

Route 2019 (Almond Road) between Route 917 (Main Street) and Wherry Road in Somerset Township.

Route 3008 (Jolly School Road/Lagonda Road) between Route 221 (South Bridge Road) in Buffalo Township and Mounts Road in South Franklin Township.

Route 3026 (Enon Church Road) between Route 231 (East Finley Drive) and Route 3032 (Valley Church Road) in East Finley Township.

Route 4022 (Armstrong Drive/Weirich Avenue/Pleasant Valley Road/West Wylie Avenue) between Gorby Road/Reese Road and McKee Road in Buffalo Township.

Route 4039 (Pleasant Road/Southview Road) between Route 50 (Millers Run Road) and Pleasant Street in Mount Pleasant Township.

UPDATE 8:30 a.m.:

Chartiers Park is closed due to flooding, the Bridgeville Police Department says.

Update 7:40 a.m.

PennDOT is advising motorists of the following weather-related road closures.

Armstrong County

Iron Bridge Road between Horseshoe Drive, Stokes Road and South Scenic Road in South Buffalo Township

Route 3014 - Nicola Road/Mushroom Farm Road/Nichola Road between M&M Lime Company Drive and Fennelton Road in West Franklin Township

Craigsville Road/Yellow Dog Road between Airport Road, Yellow Dog Road and Craigsville Road in West Franklin

Butler County

Route 38 between Exit: US 422 West and Hoon Road, Pine Tract Road in Center Township

Route 1016 between Hendricks Road in Butler Township and Route 38  Oneida Valley Road in Summit Township

Route 3006 Renfrew Road between Hicks Road and Three Degree Road in Penn Township

Route 3007 Benbrook Road/Three Degree Road/Valencia Road/Meridian Road between Watters Station Road and West Road in Forward Township and between Smith Road and Beacon Light Road in Penn Township

Route 3025 Little Creek Road/Yellow Creek Road between Little Creek Road and East Lancaster Road in Lancaster Township

Route 68 between Route 528 - Lindsay Road in Jackson Township and Washington Street Evans City. Detour for 68 West: Route 3015 South to Route 228, to Route 19 to Route 528. For 68 East: Route 528 North to Route 19 South, to Route 228 East, to Route 3015.

Route 68 between Seven Hills Road in Oakland township and Slippery Rock Street in Chicora.

Route 138 between and Campbell Road and Stoops Road in Concord Township

Route 4012 Boyers Road/Cemetery Road between Oakland Road in Marion Township and Kohlmeyer Road in Venango Township

Route 2012 Dinnerbell Road between Victory Road and Dinnerbell Road, Golden City Road in Jefferson Township

UPDATE 6:50 a.m.

Road closures from previous flooding continue to be an issue, Traffic Anchor Trisha Pittman reports.

NUMEROUS ROAD CLOSURES / Areas with Clean Up from Previous Flooding- Here are just a few... You'll most likely come upon flooding, down trees/wires, along your morning commute. Never drive around road closure barriers. #WPXITraffic #PittsburghTraffic #WPXI https://t.co/5mPFseci4x pic.twitter.com/5XqTnbQBPu  WPXI Traffic (@WPXITraffic) April 12, 2024

UPDATE 6 a.m.:

Hundreds are without power in the area due to severe weather.

Duquesne Light reports 1,586 customers are without power.

As of 6 a.m., West Penn Power reports the following outages:

Butler County: 531

Fayette County: 150

Washington County: 209

Westmoreland: 128

UPDATE 5:25 a.m.:

Due to a power outage, the I-279/I-579 HOV lanes will remain closed this morning, PennDOT says.

Portions of the following state roads are closed or restricted due to flooding:

Allegheny County

Route 8 (Washington Boulevard) between Route 130 (Allegheny River Boulevard) and Negley Run Road - Closed

Route 48 at Ripple Road in White Oak Borough  Closed

Route 837 (Kennywood Boulevard) between Mifflin Street and Glenn Street in West Mifflin Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 910 between North Chapel Drive and Village Club Drive in Pine Township - Closed

Route 1013 (Saxonburg Boulevard) between Reaghard Drive and Ramsey Road West Deer Township - Closed

Route 2001 (Bunola River Road) between Cliff Mill Drive and Elkhorn Road in Forward Township  Closed

Route 2046 (Streets Run Road) between Glass Run Road and Brentwood Road in the City of Pittsburgh - Closed

Route 2058 (Verona Road) between Sandy Creek Road and Mt. Carmel Road - Closed

Route 3004 (McLaughlin Run Road) between Bower Hill and Route 19 - Closed

Route 3006 (Boyce Road) at Mayview Road in South Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3013 (Brownville Road) between Piney Fork Road to McCorkle Road in South Park Township  Closed

Route 3014 (Piney Fork Road) between Snowden and Connor Road in South Park Township - Closed

Route 3026 (Millers Run Road) between Crest Street and Morgan Hill Road in South Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3048 (Noblestown Road) between at Walkers Mill Road in North Fayette Township  Closed

Route 3072 (Montour Run Road) between I-376 and Marketplace Boulevard in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3075 (Hookstown Grade Road) between Montour Run Road and FedEx Drive in Moon Township  Closed

Route 3103 (McKee Road) between Route 978 and Crossroads Drive in Oakdale Borough  Closed

Route 3160 (Business Loop 376) at Ewing Road in Moon Township  Closed

Route 4009 (North Avenue/Peoples Road/Evergreen Road) between Evergreen Road and North Avenue in Shaler Township  Closed

Route 4029 (McAleer Road) between Rochester Road to Mt. Nebo Road in Ohio and Franklin Park Township  Closed

Route 4080 (Toms Run Road/Duff Road) between Ohio River Boulevard and Duff Road in Allepo and Kilbuck townships -Closed

Beaver County

Route 51 (Constitution Boulevard) between Cove Hill Road and Fallston Street in Fallston Borough  Lane Restriction

Route 1006 (Mercer Road) between Route 65 and Route 288 in Franklin Township  Closed

Route 1015 (Hartzell Road) between Route 588 and Old Furnace Road in Marion Township - Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creek Road) between Route 68 and Mellon Road in New Sewickley Township  Closed

Route 1019 (Brush Creek Road) between Wises Grove Road and Tulip Drive in New Sewickley Township - Closed

Route 2003 (Hoenig Road) between Big Sewickley Creek Road and Mason Road in Economy Borough  Closed

Route 3013 (Independence Road) between Village Road and Bryson Road in Hopewell Township - Closed

Route 4027 (Darlington Road) between 8th Street and Cove Hill Road  Closed (due to a slide)

Route 4037 (Barkley Hill Road) between Route 68 and Nicholas Drive in Industry Borough  Closed

Lawrence County

Route 1003 (Old Plank Road) between Mercer Road and Maitland Lane in Neshannock Township  Closed

Route 2012 (Union Valley Road) between Old Pittsburgh Street and Savanna Road in Shenango Township Closed

Route 2013 (Mt Herman Church Road) between Route 422 to Frew Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

Route 2013 (Mill Bridge Road) between Fairview School Road and McConnels Mill Road in Slippery Rock Township  Closed

Route 3011 (Huston Road) between Beaver Dam Road and the PA Turnpike in Enon Valley Borough  Closed

Route 4005 (Old Pulaski Road) between Glen Road and Nashua Road in Pulaski Township - Closed

Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, by visiting www.511PA.com.

UPDATE 5:23 a.m.:

Several area schools have altered plans for the day due to the flooding. Click here for a complete list of closures and delays.

UPDATE 5 a.m.:

The American Red Cross Chestnut Ridge and Allegheny Mountains Chapter has opened an emergency shelter in Armstrong County for residents displaced by flooding. The Red Cross shelter is located at the South Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Department (100 Fire Hall Rd., Freeport, PA 16229).

During a disaster, the Red Cross provides safe shelter, food, relief supplies and comfort to those in need. Red Cross shelters are open to everyone, and all disaster assistance is free. Service animals and domesticated pets are also welcome in the shelter.

Anyone in need of Red Cross assistance should call 1-800-RED CROSS.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is advising motorists that Route 68 between Mars-Evans City Road and Lindsay Road is closed in Butler County due to a damaged roadway. There is no current time available to reopen.

Homes and camps in South Buffalo Township, Armstrong County, have been evacuated due to flooding, according to the South Buffalo Volunteer Fire Department.

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) District 12 is announcing that portions of the following roadways are closed at this time due to flooding:

Greene County

Route 18 between Hoges Run Road and Grinnage Run Road in Center Township.

Northbound Route 18 between Water Dam Road in Franklin Township and Garner Run Road in Washington Township.

Southbound Route 19 between Rolling Meadows Road and Orchard Road in Franklin Township.

Westbound Route 21 (Roy E. Furman Highway) between Route 18 (Golden Oaks Road) and Route 4017 (Scott Run Road)/Covered Bridge Road in Center Township.

Route 2017 (Muddy Creek Road) between Carmichaels Road and Jackson Lane in Cumberland Township.

Washington County

Route 18 between Oak Grove Road and Monterrey Avenue in Canton Township.

Route 50 (Millers Run Road) between Route 980 and Muse-Bishop Road in Cecil Township.

Route 221 between Highland Ridge Drive in Buffalo Township and Verner Lane in South Franklin Township.

Route 221 (Green Valley Road) between Route 40 West and Pleasant Valley Road in Buffalo Township.

Route 221 between Route 231 (Claysville Road) and Oak Ridge Road in Blaine Township.

Route 3001 (Brush Run Road/Lake Road) between Route 40 (National Pike) and Ealy Road in Donegal Township.

Route 231 between Route 18 (Prosperity Pike) and Enon Church Road in East Finley Township.

Route 331 between Poplar Road and Hickory Nut Road in Independence Township.

Route 481 between Taylors Run Road in Carroll Township and Shannon Road in Fallowfield Township.

Route 481 between Park Way Street in the City of Monongahela and Van Voorhis Lane in Carroll Township.

Route 844 (Jefferson Avenue) between Cortez Drive and Route 18 (Henderson Avenue) in Canton Township.

Route 844 (Jefferson Avenue) between Linwood Drive and Route 331 (Brush Run Road) in Canton Township.

Route 1010 (Georgetown Road) between Spring Avenue in Cecil Township and Buckeye Street in Peters Township.

Route 2019 (Almond Road) between Route 917 (Main Street) and Wherry Road in Somerset Township.

Route 3008 (Jolly School Road/Lagonda Road) between Route 221 (South Bridge Road) in Buffalo Township and Mounts Road in South Franklin Township.

Route 3026 (Enon Church Road) between Route 231 (East Finley Drive) and Route 3032 (Valley Church Road) in East Finley Township.

Route 4017 (Atlas Cherry Valley Road/Phillis Road) between Joffre Cherry Valley Road and Atlasburg Road in Smith Township.

Route 4022 (Armstrong Drive/Weirich Avenue/Pleasant Valley Road/West Wylie Avenue) between Gorby Road/Reese Road and McKee Road in Buffalo Township.

Route 4039 (Pleasant Road/Southview Road) between Route 50 (Millers Run Road) and Pleasant Street in Mount Pleasant Township.

Route 4037 (Noblestown Road/Fort Cherry Road) between Route 50 (Millers Run Road) and Cherry Valley Road in Mount Pleasant Township.

Motorists should never drive through flooded roadways, as it takes just two feet of fast-moving water to float a car, PennDOT advises.

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UNITED NATIONS, April 12 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Friday called for intensified diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine crisis through a political settlement.

The Ukraine crisis drags on, causing too many casualties. To continue the flow of weapons to the battlefield will only exacerbate the risk of worsening the crisis and will not help de-escalate the situation and end the fighting, said Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations.

China once again calls on all parties concerned, in a responsible manner, to intensify diplomatic efforts for a cease-fire and put an end to the fighting, so as to promote an early political settlement of the crisis and bring about peace, he told a Security Council meeting on weapon supplies to Ukraine.

The Ukraine crisis has complex historical and practical causes. In essence, it is a major outbreak of security conflicts in Europe. China is not the manufacturer of the crisis nor a party to the conflict. China has not provided lethal weapons or equipment to any of the parties to the conflict, nor has it done or will do anything to profit from the crisis, said Geng.

"China's position on the Ukraine issue has always been consistent and clear. We are committed to being an advocate for peace and promoter of peace talks. China supports the timely convening of an international conference recognized by both Russia and Ukraine with equal participation of all parties to discuss all peace options in a fair manner," he said.

China is ready to provide the necessary conditions for Russia and Ukraine to conduct negotiations, thus making unremitting efforts to achieve an early political settlement of the crisis, said Geng. 
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  Liz Cheney is set to be the final speaker for 2023-2024 for The Norfolk Forum at downtown Norfolks Chrysler Hall.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 7, around 7:30 p.m. Single tickets for Liz Cheneys appearance are $65 each and available via The Norfolk Forums website and Ticketmaster.com. Seating is general admission and doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

Liz Cheney served as the U.S. representative for Wyomings at-large congressional district from 2017 to 2023. She chaired the House Republican Conference from 2019 to 2021.

Cheney tell the stories of how she arrived at her personal convictions, her remarkable career in Congress, and the road that lies ahead, The Norfolk Forum said. Her insight into policy, principled leadership, and the future of bipartisanship is unparalleled.

Founded in 1933, The Norfolk Forum is the oldest publicly-subscribed speakers forum in the country, a release states.

Check with WAVY.com for more updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) -The Carter County Republican Party welcomed the community to its Crisis at the Border event at the Carter County Courthouse on Thursday.

Mayor Patty Woodby and Sullivan County Sheriff Jeff Cassidy recounted their recent trip with Sen. Bill Hagerty to the U.S. southern border.

It was an eye-opening experience for me, and heart-breaking all at the same time, Mayor Woodby said. While here in Carter County we are a long way away from the southern border, the things happening there still impact us as a community. Please continue to pray for our military and our law enforcement as they continue to keep us safe here at home and in all the border states.

Mayor Woodby wants the community to be aware of what is happening near the border.

We wanted to make you aware that these issues are happening, that they are herethe crime, the health care, the illegal immigration, everything. It affects everything from our jobs, our jails, our health departments, and all of these entities that we as taxpayers pay for these illegal immigrants are going to affect that bottom line.

Johnson City criticized at its own roundtable for past sexual assault police work

The group visited Eagle Pass in the Del Rio sector, an area heavily featured in media coverage. They spoke with local law enforcement, members of the Texas Highway Patrol, and property owners.

Our residents are concerned with how the border crisis is affecting us and our community, said Carter County Republican Party Chairwoman Abby Morris-Frye. We thought this would be a good opportunity to allow the community to hear from these local leaders about the things they witnessed and the impacts we are feeling locally as a result of the crisis going on at the southern border.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn also recently visited Eagle Pass.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  A local private school is back to normal operation after locking down due to an anonymous threat late Friday afternoon, Calvary Christian School Headmaster Jim Koan confirmed to WRBL.

Koan says the threat was made toward an unnamed school, but out of an abundance of caution, law enforcement was called in to clear Calvary Christian School.

Students are being released as of about 3:45 p.m. and operations have returned to normal.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
WASHINGTON  California Sen. Laphonza Butler is the lone African American woman in the Senate and only the third Black woman to ever serve in the chamber.

Six months into the job, the Democratic senator talked to USA TODAY about what she called the incredible opportunity, responsibility and burden of that role.

The opportunity to be the only Black woman gives me the space and place to raise issues that I know Black women like my mama would have faced all her life and to give them voice on issues that truly do matter, Butler said in a recent interview in her Senate office.

Butler, 44, was appointed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom last fall to fill the seat of the late Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Butler opted not to run for the seat in 2024.

California Sen. Laphonza Butler, a Democrat and the only African American woman in the U.S. Senate, talked to USA TODAY on April 3 about her role nearly six months into the job.

The former labor organizer was the first woman of color to head EMILY's List, an organization that supports Democratic, pro-abortion rights women candidates. The first Black lesbian to openly serve in Congress, Butler serves on several committees, including Judiciary where she is chair of its subcommittee on the Constitution, which has jurisdiction over civil rights among other issues.

During her short stint in the Senate, Butler has championed federal voting rights and pushed for more support for historically Black colleges. Butler held her first field hearing on voting rights last month in Montgomery, Alabama.

This interview with Butler has been shortened for clarity and brevity.

How has it been being the only African American woman in the Senate at this time?

Answer: I say often I don't know how to be anything else but Black and a woman. That is an experience and perspective that I bring. We are uniquely impacted by so many issues that are discussed in this body. Everybody expects everything of the Black woman whether we are carrying the clipboard, or answering the phone, or taking care of our neighbor, or leading the board meeting or running the company. Everything is expected of the Black woman and so it is an incredible responsibility that I take seriously.

You stay awake at night knowing that there are millions of people counting on you to raise your voice to take on every battle to fight every fight.

Laphonza Butler being sworn in as California's junior senator.

Does the burden feel different than in other roles or jobs you've had?

I've tried to always carry the awareness of what my presence means as the only into every space that I bring those identities. Our world is in a very perilous place. Our country is at very challenging crossroads. And so, in that way, it feels immensely different because of the consequences, the stakes, the future of our democracy in so many ways, the future of work for so many young people. I'm the only Black woman, but I also am one of the youngest and one of the only ones who has a school-aged child. Lots of onlys live in this dream.

There aren't many Black women you can call and ask 'How was it when you were here?' Who do you call for advice or comfort?

There are two Black women who've ever done this before me. Sen. Carol Moseley Braun and Vice President Kamala Harris, who swore me in and who I've known for more than a decade. I have spoken to the vice president and gotten her advice on occasion, particularly as I was just getting started in the space and finding my way. Sen. Moseley Braun and I have done some virtual eventsWe actually have not connected (in person.) Its one of the things that's on my list to do.

Sen. Laphonza Butler attended a senate homeland security hearing on Oct. 31, 2023.

Do you lean on members of the Congressional Black Caucus?

Ive talked to Sens. (Cory) Booker and (Raphael) Warnock a great deal. There are several members in the House who have given me (advice about) their experience, which has been very, very helpful.

What about women in the Senate?

Oh, for sure. I found a lot of camaraderie and support amongst all of the Democratic women and some of the Republican women. (Washington) Sen. Patty Murray has just been as much of a Sherpa as you could imagine. (Minnesota) Sen. Tina Smith has just been an outstanding guidepost and (Nevada) Sen. (Catherine) Cortez Masto is great. Peter Welch from Vermont was the most junior (senator) before I became the most junior and so we find ourselves sitting next to each other in committee talking about what it's like to be No. 100.

Wearing your former hat as president of Emily's List, what do you think of the increasing number of women of color running for Congress and the support they've received?

We've seen the fall of Black women who are deeply prepared. I think about (former) state Supreme Court) Chief Justice Cheri Beasley just last cycle in North Carolina who was prepared, qualified, had run statewide before and she didn't get the national investment to her race, never got the national attention.

I hope the lesson that we have learned as a (Democratic) party is that Black women are no longer going to just be the folks who answer the phones or who knock on the doors or who carry the clipboard. They are now going to be in perpetuity the candidates who are running for office.

I think they are going to be rightfully demanding more of the Democratic Party in particular but whatever party they run as a part of, because we have to be seen and we have to be at the table. What I think it means is: Get used to it, because Black women are here and they are here to be leaders.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Laphonza Butler, the only Black woman in the Senate, on her new job
DIX HILLS, N.Y. (PIX11)  A man who threatened mass harm at a Long Island high school on Tuesday was arrested on Thursday afternoon, according to the Suffolk County Police Department.

Ryan Christopher, 42, from Patchogue, allegedly threatened to bomb and shoot up Half Hollow Hills East High School in Dix Hills, police said.

Subway fare evasion suspect punches NYPD officer in Manhattan: NYPD

Christopher, who is known to school officials, called and left a threatening voicemail, police sources said.

He was arrested near his home and charged with making a threat of mass harm, which is a misdemeanor. Christopher was expected to be arraigned on Friday at the first district court in Central Islip.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Take a look at the workhorse C-130 cargo plane that the US Air Force is reinventing to fight like a bomber

The MC-130J Commando II is an upgraded version of the C-130 cargo plane.

The plane assists in infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply for special ops forces.

The US Air Force recently began utilizing the cargo plane to airdrop palletized munitions.

The C-130 cargo plane was first designed in 1951.

More than seven decades later, one of the plane's latest models, the MC-130J, is being fitted with a new weapons system that is changing how the US Air Force utilizes its fleet of existing planes.

The first of its kind

The first C-130 Transport flying back from its early flight paces over California's Mojave Desert. Bettmann/Getty Images

The C-130 Hercules was created to address deficiencies in the US Air Force fleet during the Korean War.

The US military recognized a need for a plane that could take off from shorter runways and transport more soldiers and supplies on and off the battlefield. At the time, no plane could simultaneously achieve all the objectives the Air Force needed.

The Air Force asked for designs for a plane capable of hauling large, bulky equipment over long distances, landing in tight spaces, slowing to 125 knots for paratroop drops, and flying with one engine if needed.

Boeing, Douglas, and Fairchild submitted models for this new type of plane, but Lockheed's submission ultimately won the bid in 1951. To this day, Lockheed still makes C-130 models and their upgraded versions.

In a 2017 interview with Popular Mechanics, Lockheed Martin historian Jeff Rhodes said the design team took the largest piece of equipment the Army needed to transport, "drew a circle around it, and that set the diameter of the fuselage."

"The basic C-130, aft of the cockpit and before the ramp, is the length of a railroad boxcar," Rhodes said.

Three years later, the YC-130, a prototype of the later C-130, made its first test flight from Burbank, California, to Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County, California. It took off after using only 855 feet of runway, a fraction of the 5,000-foot ground roll needed by most other planes its size.

The US Air Force has not stopped production of the C-130 class plane since it was invented in the 1950s, making it the longest continuous aircraft production run in history.

The C-130 is whatever is needed

A soldier loads M-998 multipurpose wheeled vehicles into a C-130E Hercules aircraft. USAF/Getty Images

According to Lockheed Martin, the C-130 could originally carry 40,000 pounds of cargo and fly at 360 mph.

In the years since its creation, the performance and usage of the C-130 have exceeded expectations, and it has become known as a "do-it-all" plane.

"The C-130 is whatever is needed," Rhodes told Popular Mechanics. "It's an ambulance, it's a gunship, it drops paratroopers, it carries cargo, it's a TV broadcast system, it's launched drones, and caught satellites. You name it, the Hercules has done it at some point in its career."

In 2010 alone, the C-130 series plane hauled more than 13,600 short tons of cargo, transported more than 25,800 passengers, and routed 280 patients from Haiti for medical evaluations after the country's devastating earthquake, according to Lockheed Martin.

First of many

A view of the first production version of the US Air Force's Lockheed C-130A Hercules military transports. Lockheed Aircraft Company/PhotoQuest/Getty Images

The C-130's high utility and versatility have contributed to its historic production run for the US Air Force. Since its creation, the plane has been in production for over 70 years.

It has roughly 70 variants, over 2,400 aircraft have been produced, and it is used by 70 countries worldwide.

Durability

A New Zealand Air Force C130 Hercules lands on the ice runway at Scott Base, an Antarctic New Zealand research station. Micheal Field/AFP via Getty Images

In addition to its versatility and numerous variants, the C-130 is also known for its durability.

Early models of the C-130 had four different engines delivering 3,750 horsepower each. Newer models, like the MC-130J, have four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 Turboprop engines.

According to Wayne Roberts, Lockheed's chief experimental test pilot, the C-130 and its variants are so versatile that they can stay in flight at speeds as low as 80 knots with only one engine working.

Lockheed attributes the durability of the aircraft to using the four turboprop engines, which provide surplus power to the plane and pressurize the fuselage, including the cargo compartment. This allows the aircraft to fly efficiently at high altitudes. Lockheed strengthened the airframe to accommodate the added pressurization.

In 1971, a C-130, call sign Juliet Delta 321, crashed during a resupply mission in Antarctica after the rockets used in takeoff assistance malfunctioned. There were no casualties, but the C-130 was left in the harsh ice and snow of the Antarctic for 15 years.

After other C-130s were successfully recovered in similar incidents, plans were drawn to recover the plane 15 years later. Just over a year after operations began, Juliet Delta 321 was up in the skies again.

A habit of making history

Loadmasters from the 9th Special Operations Squadron load a Maritime Craft Aerial Delivery System on an MC-130J Commando II. US Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Matthew Plew

Recovery from the Arctic is not the only time the C-130 has been in the headlines. The US Navy and the Air Force wanted to determine the feasibility of landing a C-130 on an aircraft carrier and using it as a "Super COD (Carrier Onboard Delivery)."

In 1963, the KC-130F refueler transport aircraft, a variant of the C-130, landed and took off from an aircraft carrier more than two dozen times, all while carrying a gross weight between 85,000 and 121,000 pounds.

To this day, the KC-130F is the largest and heaviest plane to ever land on an aircraft carrier.

More than just supply drops

Soldiers parachute down to the ground near Gunzburg in Bavaria. More than 2,000 paratroopers jumped off from 48 four-engined C-130 "Hercules." Klaus-Dieter Heirler/picture alliance via Getty Images

Though the C-130's original design was intended to transport soldiers and supplies, the plane has gone on to do much more.

Its high weight limit and large cargo hold were used in missions involving environmental disasters, dropping pamphlets for CIA psyops, and rescuing people in dangerous situations.

The C-130 can also be beneficial in combat. The AC-130 has an armament of 20mm/30mm/40mm cannons, a 105mm howitzer, and additional smart bombs and missiles. During Vietnam, the C-130s carried a 15,000-pound BLU-82, the largest bomb in the US arsenal at the time.

In 2017, a C-130 dropped the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), also known as the "Mother of All Bombs," the largest conventional bomb ever used in combat, weighing in at over 20,000 pounds.

A new model of an old plane

An MC-130J Commando II flies over Yokota Air Base, Japan, during a training mission. US Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha White.

One of the newest versions of the C-130 is the MC-130J Commando II, approved and delivered to the Air Force in 2017. The plane has four Rolls Royce AE 2100D3 Turboprops engines, can fly up to 362 knots, and can take off with a weight of 164,000 pounds.

The Commando can fly low-visibility missions, complete single or multiship low-level air refueling missions, support infiltration and exfiltration operations, and resupply special operation forces.

The MC-130J has two pilot flight stations with state-of-the-art navigation and defense systems, digital autopilot, and environmental and ice-protection systems.

The US Air Force has recently started considering how a workhorse plane like the MC-130J can be used in situations other than cargo transport.

Rapid Dragon

A palletized munitions system falls from the cargo hold of an MC-130J Commando II during a live-fire demonstration at Andya Space Defense Range, Norway. US Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Brigette Waltermire

Rapid Dragon is an Air Force effort looking into palletized munitions designed to be released from the cargo hold of an MC-130J. The module consists of a cage that can be programmed to release and fire at a target while inside the cargo hold of the MC-130J.

Once the payload is programmed, the crew of the Commando II drops it like they would any other supplies. As the pallet floats in the parachute, the attached weapon detaches and flies off toward its target.

The versatility of the Commando II makes it the perfect aircraft for this new munition system. Adding the munitions doesn't require any extra crewmembers, training, or equipment, and it saves time since the Commando II can carry as many long-range weapons as a B-52 bomber.

"The beauty is this capability doesn't require any aircraft modifications, and it doesn't require any special crew training," Lt. Gen. Jim Slife, the head of Air Force Special Operations Command, said at an Air & Space Forces Association event in 2022. "So it's really easily exportable."

No runway, no problem

An airman conducts preflight operations on an MC-130J Commando II. US Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Brigette Waltermire

Rapid Dragon adds firepower to the already advanced Commando II, but its ability to pull off shorter takeoffs makes it even more of a threat.

Despite its size, the Commando II can take off with only 3,000 feet of runway compared to 10,000 feet or more for other planes. Not only can palletized munitions be added to their cargo during resupply at just about any location, but the planes can take off from almost anywhere, making it harder for enemies to figure out where attacks may be coming from.

"It's not hard to figure out where all the 10,000-feet concrete runways in the Pacific are, but when you're trying to figure out where the 3,000-feet straight stretches of road and grass strips are," Slife added, "that's a different targeting problem for your adversaries."

Global impact

A member of the 17th Special Operation Squadron prepares an MC-130J Commando II for takeoff. US Air Force photo by Senior Airman Divine Cox/Released

As tests of dropping palletized munitions from cargo planes have become successful, more countries are asking AFSOC for demonstrations of the new technology, and they have started sharing the technology and techniques with other militaries.

AFSOC is also investigating ways to improve or add to the MC-130J to make it even more versatile, such as adding amphibious modifications that allow it to land and take off from bodies of water.

"If you were going to build an amphibious airplane, you probably wouldn't start with a C-130, but the C-130 is the ingredient that we've got in the cupboard," Slife said previously. "We've got a pretty compelling digital design that's going to give us the ability to turn any large body of water into a landing zone where we can insert [and] extract special-operations forces and equipment and other things that might cause dilemmas for our adversaries."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The looming battle over the Democratic platform: From the Politics Desk

Welcome to the online version of From the Politics Desk, an evening newsletter that brings you the NBC News Politics teams latest reporting and analysis from the campaign trail, the White House and Capitol Hill.

In todays edition, Mike Memoli and Alex Seitz-Wald report on how progressives critics of Joe Biden's Israel policy are shifting their focus from the ballot box to the Democratic convention. Plus, Jonathan Allen previews House Speaker Mike Johnson's trip to Mar-a-Lago to discuss "election integrity" with Donald Trump.

Sign up to receive this newsletter in your inbox every weekday here.

Progressives gear up for a platform fight on Israel at the Democratic convention

By Mike Memoli and Alex Seitz-Wald

Activists at odds with President Joe Biden over his handling of Israels war with Hamas are planning to shift the focus of their pressure campaign from the ballot box to the Democratic Party platform at this summers nominating convention in Chicago.

The Biden campaign is bracing for the effort, which could extend a bruising, and divisive, political battle over several months to the Democratic National Convention, according to multiple activists and party insiders.

Do you have a news tip? Let us know

Progressive Democrats already have identified a list of issues where they hope to influence the party platform, including calling for filibuster reform in the Senate, declaring a national climate emergency and ending private funding of elections. But the war in the Gaza Strip and potential conditions on future U.S. military assistance to Israel is poised to be the most contentious issue as Democrats prepare for their convention on Aug. 19-22.

Were gearing up for a fight and were drawing a line in the sand, though we hope it doesnt come to that, said Joseph Geevarghese, the executive director of Our Revolution, which spun off from Bernie Sanders first presidential campaign.

Well negotiate out as much agreement as possible beforehand so that we can avoid large-scale fights, Geevarghese added. That being said, if there needs to be a fight on important issues, well do it.

The Democratic National Committee has not yet publicly outlined its process for developing the 2024 platform. A DNC spokesperson said the party will engage diverse voices from across the Democratic coalition.

The Democratic Party platform will reflect President Bidens vision for how we can move our nation forward, Hannah Muldavin, the spokesperson, said in a statement to NBC News, citing domestic issues as well as advancing safety and security at home and abroad.

The divide between Biden and a growing number of progressives could set up a clash that Democrats havent had at a convention in decades, according to Geevarghese, who noted that Chicago was the site of the Democrats infamous 1968 convention when left-wing anti-war protesters clashed with police.

Read more 

Mike Johnson is Trumps new My Kevin

Donald Trump and Mike Johnson. (AP)

Analysis by Jonathan Allen

House Speaker Mike Johnson is getting a temporary reprieve courtesy of Donald Trump on Friday, a joint public appearance at a time when fellow Trump ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is dangling a political sword over Johnsons head.

Greene, a Georgia Republican, has threatened to force a vote on ousting Johnson  a motion to vacate the speakers chair  partially over his efforts to provide funding for Ukraine in its defense against Russias invasion and partially in an attempt to keep herself in the national spotlight.

Trump ultimately stood aside as his friends in Congress booted Johnsons predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, last year. When McCarthy was going down, Trump publicly lamented GOP infighting without attaching himself to the anchor around the speakers ankles.

The palace coup illustrated a major tension point in Trumps relationship with the most radical elements of the House Republican conference: They represent his base.

That means he has influence with them  but also that he is wary of crossing them and tarnishing his own brand as a crusader against the Washington establishment.

Now, Johnson is heading to Mar-a-Lago on bent knee, a position that was very familiar to McCarthy  a man Trump referred to condescendingly as My Kevin.

Johnson is looking to make inroads on the one issue that, at times, divided McCarthy from Trump: the 2020 election. Johnson and Trump have billed their joint appearance as an election integrity event. In 2020, McCarthy tried and failed to persuade Trump to stop telling Republicans they should refuse to vote by mail or vote early in person.

In January 2021, as the House voted to impeach Trump over the Capitol riot, McCarthy blamed the then-president for the insurrection  even as McCarthy opposed the impeachment effort. The president bears responsibility for Wednesdays attack on Congress by mob rioters, McCarthy said. He should have immediately denounced the mob when he saw what was unfolding.

Trumps renewed push for election integrity has three effects: to promote the bald-faced lie that he was robbed in 2020  an active part of his defense against federal charges that he illegally attempted to overturn that election; to rally supporters for 2024; and to plant the idea that a loss in 2024 would also result from fraud or chicanery.

Now, he is enlisting Johnson in that propaganda war, a move that would serve to place any potential successor to Johnson in the same position.

Trump had My Kevin. On Friday, hell have My Mike. And if Johnson gets the heave-ho, hell have My Fill In the Blank.

In that way, Johnsons trip to Mar-a-Lago is just proof of how dispensable he is to Trump. What hes buying with the photo-op is an indefinite period of indentured servitude. What Trump gets is a public show that loyalist speakers are a dime a dozen in the House GOP.

Thats all from The Politics Desk for now. If you have feedback  likes or dislikes  email us at politicsnewsletter@nbcuni.com

And if youre a fan, please share with everyone and anyone. They can sign up here.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Osceola resident Oscar Hernandez is scrambling to ensure his 16-year-old terminally ill son, Llarell, will continue to receive medical care.

Llarell is paralyzed and relies on three life support machines and specialized nursing care for 16 hours per day. Hernandez thought his son would receive Medicaid coverage for the rest of his life, until late March, when he got a call from his sons Medicaid plan telling him his coverage would soon be terminated.

Its been 16 years of taking care of a kid with a terminal disease. By the grace of God, hes still with us. But we shouldnt be dealing with situations like this. It is just wrong, Hernandez said.

His sons coverage was set to end March 31, Easter Sunday, but the state extended it to the end of April. Hes spent over a dozen hours on the phone trying to understand what he can do next.

I dont know what to do. I dont know which way to go. I call Medicaid, and they have no answers for me, Hernandez said. I havent received any letters or anything.  So I dont know whats happening. I really have no clue.

1.3 million dropped

Over the last year, Florida has dropped over 1.3 million people, including 460,000 children, from its state Medicaid program after the end of a pandemic-era policy that banned states from removing participants who became ineligible. In March, the state began redetermining eligibility for kids with chronic complex conditions, like Llarell. Reviews for these children were delayed until now.

The state says cases where the family didnt find out about termination until it was already happening are an anomaly. Yet advocates point out that during the past month, when the states sickest kids had eligibility reviews, some Florida families found out their kids lost coverage with just days of notice and struggled to get answers from the state about what to next.

Its very troubling. It seems like there are a lot of very sick children who are now left out in the cold, said Joan Alker, executive director of Georgetown University Center for Children and Families.

The Florida Department of Children and Families informed families throughout the eligibility review process through letters, emails, texts and calls, said spokeswoman Mallory McManus. She said the department called recipients two months before their redeterminations, successfully speaking with 93% of those affected.

If the department doesnt get a response, it conducts additional outreach for those who might normally be terminated for being non-responsive, she said.

This level of outreach goes above and beyond the requirements of the federal government and is further evidence of our commitment to supporting recipients through the process, she wrote, adding that people no longer eligible are automatically referred to KidCare, a state health insurance option for families who make too much money for Medicaid.

Yet dozens of people have told the nonprofit Florida Health Justice Project they didnt get advance warning and didnt find out their coverage was up for review until they were already losing it, said Florida Health Justice Project founder Miriam Harmatz.

In some cases, the children were terminated not because they were ineligible but because their parents didnt receive instructions from DCF on how to keep coverage, Harmatz said. Those families then faced high call center wait times and are not always given information about their right to appeal the termination, she added.

A significant number appear to have fallen through the cracks, Harmatz said. We received a tremendous number of requests for advice and help from parents who only learned their childs loss of Medicaid from their medical providers in late March. They tried to reach out to DCF and either could not get through or got incorrect information.

Easter Sunday cutoff

On Easter Sunday, coverage for most children with complex chronic conditions was set to expire. Some, but not all, ended up getting an extension until the end of April, Harmatz said. But even those who got an extension are stumped on what to do or why they lost coverage, she added.

The Orlando Sentinel shared the story last month of Kaitlin Maron, who found out her son was set to lose Medicaid coverage by chance at a routine doctors appointment. She, too, said she never saw any warnings despite thoroughly checking her inbox, mailbox, phone and MyACCESS state account. She didnt realize she could appeal the decision until she talked to the Florida Health Justice Project.

Her sons Medicaid was also originally set to end March 31 but was extended through the end of April. He didnt experience a coverage gap and she has been told he will continue to qualify as long as he remains eligible for Supplemental Security Income, a program that provides cash payments to low-income and disabled people.

Yet after significant time devoted to addressing the situation, she still has no explanation as to why he was set to lose Medicaid in the first place.

I spoke with both Medicaid and Social Security and there wasnt any sort of notes. They were both stumped as to why he was canceled, she said via text.

Harmatz said that some clients who appealed before their termination date still havent had all their coverage restored. Shes also heard about several severely disabled adults whose coverage was terminated on Easter Sunday without notice, leaving them without home health services that they depend on for their daily health and safety.

Seeking assurances

The Florida Health Justice Project has asked the state to ensure theres no gap in coverage for people who never received notice they were up for redetermination or for medically complex kids. They are also pushing the state to post Floridas plan for these kids on its website so advocates have somewhere to refer parents.

Right now, FHJP is referring families to the personal email of a KidCare staff member who said they could send parents directly to her for assistance. FHJP has also created a Q&A for parents of kids with complex medical conditions.

Were a small nonprofit. Were struggling to keep up with responding to the people who email us, and we cant deal with these cases one by one, Harmatz said. There needs to be a sustainable system fix.

Hernandez is at a loss about what to do next for his son.

The family now makes too much for traditional Medicaid. Llarell is still eligible for Floridas medically needy share of cost program, which will allow him to receive Medicaid coverage each month after his medical bills exceed a certain amount based on income, $7,000 a month in this case. But many providers are unable or unwilling to provide care without guaranteed reimbursement.

I told them thats impossible because the only way that I can get $7,000 in invoices is if the nurses show up, and they wont show up because they dont have proof of payment, Hernandez said.

Without nurses, Hernandez would have to quit two of his three jobs and work from home full-time to care for Llarell.

In the meantime, he has enrolled his son in Florida Healthy Kids, part of the states Childrens Health Insurance Program. He has two daughters on Healthy Kids, and its better than nothing, he said, but he worries it wont come close to meeting all his sons care needs.

Healthy Kids does not provide as much coverage for medically complex kids as Medicaid does, Alker said.

A child with serious health conditions is going to be much better served by the Medicaid benefits package, she said.

DeSantis defends KidCare

During an April 1 press conference on toll relief, a reporter asked Gov. Ron DeSantis about the thousands of kids set to lose Medicaid coverage, and he defended KidCare.

Well, but our KidCare has been very effective, DeSantis said. I mean, I think if you look at what the Legislature has done over the years, you know, theyve really focused on helping working families make sure that their kids have access to health coverage.

In 2023, the Legislature voted unanimously to expand KidCare to higher-income families, which was predicted to help 42,000 uninsured kids.

The expansion was supposed to take effect Jan. 1 but was delayed by paperwork snafus. It has now been postponed indefinitely while the state sues the federal government over a new rule that would require states to keep children on KidCare for 12 months even if their families miss a premium payment.

A hearing on that suit is scheduled for April 18 in federal court in Tampa.
Anna McKay, 67, was told by Action Fraud that her claim would be passed on to French police  but that never happened - Anna McKay

Fraud victims are turning to foreign police forces to solve their cases as the British authorities refuse to investigate.

London-based business owner Anna McKay lost 45,000 when fraudsters pretended to be a well-established hotel chain in France and forged a large order in 2020. Under the terms of the order, the payment would have been made on arrival.

Ms McKay, 67, the founder of Zeez Sleep, which manufactures sleep devices, reported the scam to Action Fraud.

The fraudsters were eventually caught by the French authorities but emails seen by The Telegraph show that they had had no communication with their British equivalents.

Ms McKay claimed: I never got anything from Action Fraud other than a standard we cant do anything email.

This is not cyber fraud requiring painstaking research but physical goods being sent to a named individual at a warehouse south of Paris. A box may be ticked but an opportunity to stop future fraud, recover stolen goods, and help a neighbour is being lost.

I think we were saved because I had lots of conversations [with French police] and I am a fluent French speaker, she added.

Ms McKay is one of thousands of fraud victims whose claims have not been progressed by Action Fraud  the UKs national fraud and cyber crime reporting body  in recent years.

A freedom of information request by The Telegraph found the government department, set up to combat rising fraud, is failing to pass on 85pc of cases to local police forces.

More than 1.2bn was lost to fraud in 2022, the equivalent of 2,300 every minute, a report by industry body UK Finance found.

But just 15.2pc of the 178,689 crimes reported to Action Fraud in the first six months of 2022 were referred on for an investigation.

Action Fraud, which is run, as is the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB), by the City of London Police, does not have investigative powers. If a case requires further work, it will be passed on to the relevant police force. Victims can report fraud either by telephone or online.

In 2021, 9.2pc of crime reports were passed on, either for intelligence, to prevent further crime or to protect the victims, or to be investigated further.

It comes as Action Fraud confirms to The Telegraph that its long-awaited overhaul, announced by the government in 2021, has been delayed, blaming the complexity of the project.

The reform was promised in 2021 after then Home Secretary Priti Patel ordered a review of the body following the revelation that victims had been mocked by call-handlers managers , who called them morons.

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Action Fraud outsources its customer service to American agency Concentrix, which handles calls from fraud victims before cases are passed on to the NFIB for review. A handover of day-to-day operations to outsourcing firms Capita and PwC is now due by the end of the year, rather than by the end of June, as announced last year.

Inaction fraud

Dr Ramana Kumar, had his cryptocurrency accounts hacked and emptied in September 2023.

He reported the fraud, which amounted to 40,000 in cash terms, to Action Fraud, but described his experience with the crime unit as frustrating.

Dr Kumar claimed that the crypto exchanges told him that they would need permission from the authorities in order for them to return the stolen money  but Action Fraud did not act quickly enough, and the money was gone.

He said: We needed to move faster than that if we were going to recover the funds as they were getting cashed out.

Dr Kumar claims he had evidence that could have led to tracking down the fraudsters. His case was referred to the NFIB, but the body decided that it did not meet the criteria to be investigated further.

Dr Kumar added: I would have needed to talk to someone who wanted to help me recover the funds or catch the criminals, or in some other way, pursue justice. I dont think I was ever able to talk to someone who had that intention.

Bob Blackman MP, chair of the all-party parliamentary group for Fairer Financial Services, said that a more appropriate name for the body would be inaction fraud.

At the moment, the position of the so-called Action Fraud is not too much action. More inaction, he said.

I do think there is a real problem with the way that the authorities look at it and the way that individuals are just left to their own devices, effectively, to try and combat things.

Cybersecurity expert James Bore said that in his experiences helping fraud victims, he has not come across a single case where a report to Action Fraud led to action being taken.

He said: Years ago they were found unfit for service, and yet nothing has changed. Almost no funding goes into fraud investigation or prevention, and so even if Action Fraud were more effective theres no one to act on the reports.

An investigation into the fraud reporting system by consumer group Which? in 2019 found that some reports were never being read by actual police staff.

An undercover operation by The Times that same year revealed that staff were banned from telling victims that the majority of cases are dismissed by employees at an out-sourced call centre or a computer algorithm.

The investigation also uncovered that non-police employees were being told to suggest that they were officers while on the phone to victims.

Victims were mocked by managers in charge of collating reports of fraud, who called them morons and psychos. City of London Police said at the time that it was horrified by the reports and said it had not asked for call handlers to pretend to be officers.

Home Secretary Priti Patel demanded a response from the City of London police as a result of the investigation.

Then, in 2021 the Governments Beating Crime Plan said that Action Fraud, which was founded in 2009 and used by all police forces by 2013, would be replaced with an improved national reporting system.

But a spokesman for Action Fraud said that the introduction of PwC and Capita, to replace American firm Concentrix, which previously handled calls for the body, had been delayed due to the complexity of the project.

It was announced last June that the body would receive 152m in funding over five years in order to improve the speed at which it speaks to law enforcement.

A UK Finance spokesperson said: The governments recent fraud strategy announced enhancements to the fraud reporting set-up and we welcome changes that support victims and make it easier for them.

These crimes have a terrible impact on victims and wider society and so, alongside this, our focus is on stopping fraud from happening in the first place.

Detective Superintendent Gary Miles, head of the NFIB at the City of London Police, said that each report is analysed to see if it can be passed on to a local force, and that there are a number of considerations made.

Once a report has been passed on, it is the responsibility of the local force to decide whether or not it will be investigated.

DSI Miles said: We know that forces have competing priorities and not every case of fraud will result in a judicial outcome. There are also a number of other ways a report can be dealt with outside of a dissemination.

Oliver Shaw, temporary commander for Fraud and Cybercrime from the City of London Police, said: We understand that the public may be disappointed if their case does not result in a criminal conviction, however, there are a number of other key pieces of work done to help victims and stop fraudsters in their tracks.

The fraud body said it responds to all cases within six weeks. Victims can also report through the Action Fraud website.

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Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, addresses the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" at the East Pyongyang Grand Theater in Pyongyang, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), April 12, 2024. Zhao Leji and Choe Ryong Hae, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK, held talks and attended the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" from April 11 to 12. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

PYONGYANG, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, and Choe Ryong Hae, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), jointly attended the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" on Friday.

Zhao, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Choe, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), attended the event at the East Pyongyang Grand Theater.

China and the DPRK are socialist and friendly neighbors linked by mountains and rivers, and as close as lips and teeth, Zhao said.

Calling General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping and WPK General Secretary Kim Jong Un helmsmen steering the boat, drawing the blueprint and charting the course of the development of China-DPRK relations, Zhao said the top leaders set the fundamental guidance and inject inexhaustible impetus into bilateral ties.

China is ready to work with the DPRK to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and the two countries, promote traditional friendship, deepen strategic mutual trust and enhance exchanges and cooperation, so as to jointly write a new chapter of the China-DPRK friendship, Zhao said.

Choe said that as the top leaders of both parties and both countries have put the DPRK-China relations of the new era on a new strategic height, the friendship bonds between the two countries have remained unshakable and become even firmer.

By taking the opportunity of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the "DPRK-China Friendship Year," the DPRK is willing to join hands with China to strengthen and develop the DPRK-China friendly cooperation, thus embarking on a new journey of vigorous development of the friendship between the two countries, he said.

After the event, Zhao and Choe watched together a performance by art troupes from the two countries.

On Friday morning, Zhao presented a floral basket to the China-DPRK Friendship Tower in tribute to the tremendous feats of the martyrs of the Chinese People's Volunteers. He also paid a visit to the Kangdong General Greenhouse Farm.

During their talks on Thursday, Zhao told Choe that the China-DPRK traditional friendship was forged and cultivated by the elder generations of leaders of both parties and both countries.

General Secretary Xi has repeatedly said that the CPC and the Chinese government attach great importance to the traditional friendly cooperation between the two countries, and that it is China's unwavering strategy to safeguard, solidify and develop bilateral relations, Zhao said.

Noting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the DPRK, he said General Secretary Xi and WPK General Secretary Kim have exchanged New Year congratulatory messages, and jointly designated 2024 as the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" and launched a series of activities.

China is ready to work with the DPRK to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of both parties and both countries, and take the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" as an opportunity to intensify high-level exchanges, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, promote people-to-people exchanges and strengthen strategic coordination, so as to move forward China-DPRK relations, Zhao said.

Exchanges between legislative bodies have been an important part of China-DPRK relations and long played a positive role in deepening bilateral ties, Zhao said.

China is ready to intensify legislative exchanges and cooperation with the DPRK to lift China-DPRK traditional friendly cooperation to a higher level, he said.

Choe said the blood-cemented friendship between the two countries has a long history and profound foundation, and is the common precious heritage and wealth of the two countries.

Under the strategic guidance of General Secretary Kim and General Secretary Xi, DPRK-China friendly relations have entered a new era, which strongly demonstrates the vitality and unbreakability of bilateral ties, he said.

The DPRK is willing to work with China to follow the guidance of the top leaders of the two parties and two countries, and take the opportunity of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the "Friendship Year" to develop the DPRK-China traditional friendship, deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and push for further development of DPRK-China friendly cooperation, he said.

After the talks, they witnessed the signing of cooperation documents in the fields including reciprocal exemption of diplomatic and service visas, translation and publication of classical literatures, customs quarantine, radio and television, and postal delivery. 

Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, and Choe Ryong Hae, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), pose for a group photo with artists of art troupes from both countries after watching their performance in Pyongyang, the DPRK, April 12, 2024. Zhao Leji and Choe Ryong Hae held talks and attended the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" from April 11 to 12. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, visits the Kangdong General Greenhouse Farm in Pyongyang, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), April 12, 2024. Zhao Leji and Choe Ryong Hae, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK, held talks and attended the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" from April 11 to 12. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, presents a floral basket to the China-DPRK Friendship Tower in Pyongyang, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), April 12, 2024. Zhao Leji and Choe Ryong Hae, a member of the Presidium of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK, held talks and attended the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" from April 11 to 12. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)
4/20, a beloved holiday for cannabis users to spark up and pass the pipe, is quickly approaching, but Louisville residents and stoners in the area are out of luck.

Despite more than half of people preferring marijuana over alcohol if only one could be legal in the U.S., according to a study from the American Addiction Centers, the magical plant isn't so popular in Kentucky.

Marijuana joint in the hand

Kentucky medical marijuana: How and when you can apply for a medical marijuana card in Kentucky

Louisville ranks worst city nationally for weed ahead of 4/20

According to Real Estate Witch, the organization worked with Leafly to rank the 50 largest U.S. cities in order from best to worst for stoners. Metrics taken into consideration included the legality of cannabis, the number of dispensaries per 100,000 residents, number of medical cannabis doctors per 100,000 residents, the average cost of a high-quality ounce, the price of a medium-quality ounce and more.

Louisville was No. 50 on the list, coming in last place. While the state has plans to launch its medical cannabis program in January 2025, it's significantly behind when it comes to the marijuana movement. According to the website, 37 states have already legalized weed for medicinal use, with 24 states and the District of Columbia allowing for recreational use as well.

David Downs, senior content manager at Leafly, said, Were praying for Louisville. Were hoping for change in Kentucky, and its just a matter of time.

Based on the data, Louisville residents search for marijuana-related terms about 21% less than those in other cities and visit Leafly.com about 50% less. Furthermore, the average high-end ounce in the city costs nearly $350, with a medium-end ounce averaging around $254. The city also has 0.1 marijuana retailers per 100,000 residents and 0.1 medical cannabis doctors per 100,000 residents.

Others are reading: Celebrating 4/20 this year? Marijuana is also a favorite for concerts, music festivals

Best cities for weed in the U.S.

According to the study, the top ten cities for weed are:

Denver, Colorado Portland, Oregon Las Vegas, Nevada Buffalo, New York Baltimore, Maryland Phoenix, Arizona Seattle, Washington Sacramento, California Kansas City, Missouri Providence, Rhode Island

Worst cities for weed in the U.S.

The worst cities for marijuana in the U.S. include:

Louisville, Kentucky Dallas, Texas Atlanta, Georgia Houston, Texas Birmingham, Alabama Nashville, Tennessee Charlotte, North Carolina Milwaukee, Wisconsin Memphis, Tennessee Indianapolis, Indiana

When is 4/20?

4/20 Day is celebrated on April 20 each year by cannabis users, producers, advocates and more, according to National Day Calendar.

What is 4/20?

4/20 Day is a celebration of the green, mind-altering substance of marijuana by users, manufacturers, advocates and those new to the cannabis community. In the past, and in places where it's currently illegal, the day is used to fight and advocate for the legalized medicinal and recreational use of the plant.

The day originally began in the 1970s in California to fight for the decriminalization, legalization and liberalization of marijuana, and developed alongside other major drug movements like Ann Arbor, Michigan's "Hash Bash," which began in 1972 in response to the arrest of John Sinclair for the possession of two joints. Such movements led to the decriminalization of the substance in many states throughout the 1970s, and 4/20 didn't become a mainstream celebration for stoners until the 1990s.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: 4/20 Day: Louisville ranks worst city for weed, marijuana use
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin held a nearly four-hour meeting until late on April 11, according to Russian state-controlled news agency RIA Novosti.

Lukashenko last met with Putin in Russia in January, a month before Belarus held rigged parliamentary elections that had no opposition candidates on the ballot.

Lukashenko's press service said earlier on April 11 that several topics were to be discussed with Putin, including "the coordination of actions in response to existing challenges and threats" and further advancing "Belarus-Russia cooperation in various spheres."

According to RIA Novosti, Lukashenko told Putin that Belarus supports Russia's position on negotiations with Ukraine, namely that all issues are still open to negotiation.

Lukashenko and Putin are also expected to hold a joint event to mark Cosmonautics Day on April 12 and "discuss prospects of cooperation of space exploration," Lukashenko's press service said.

"The heads of state will sum up results of a recent mission to the International Space Station (ISS) where a crew of the Union State of Belarus and Russia worked for the first time in history," Lukashenko's press service said.

Lukashenko has been the only president of Belarus since he came to power in 1994, in what is widely considered the first and last time free elections were held in the country since the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The European Parliament adopted a resolution in September 2023 recognizing Lukashenko as an accomplice to the crimes of Putin. The resolution also labeled Belarus a "satellite state of Russia."

Read also: Id be a king in Somalia with this money: Foreign POWs on being lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine

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Self-proclaimed Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has said that he will not enter the war against Ukraine on the side of Russia because of the strong fortifications, minefields and a large military group of forces on the border.

Source: a video of a conversation with Lukashenko posted by Kremlin propagandist Pavel Zarubin on Telegram

Quote from Lukashenko: "If we were to go to war against Ukraine today, it would do nothing. Because they [the Ukrainians  ed.] have the border with Belarus fortified so that you can't get there."

Details: According to Lukashenko, the border is completely mined and concreted. He also estimated the number of Ukrainian troops on the Belarusian border at 120,000.

"Well, they want to send the troops on the border to the front [against Russia  ed.], and put the French here. We are waiting," Lukashenko said.

Background:

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on 6 April, commenting on the possibility of a new Russian offensive from Belarus, that Ukraine currently sees no such threats. "As far as the strategy is concerned, we do not see any plans, threats or capabilities from Belarus so far," he said.

At the same time, Zelenskyy said that the Russians should know that Ukraine is building a reliable defence in the north.

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France will participate in the next edition of the global summit dedicated to peace in Ukraine, the country's president Emmanuel Macron confirmed on April 12.

The Swiss government confirmed on April 10 that it would host the global peace summit on Russia's war against Ukraine in June at the Burgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden.

The participants are expected to discuss Kyiv's 10-point peace formula and create a joint document on the steps that must be taken to restore Ukraine's sovereignty.

Macron, who made the comments while visiting a defense enterprise near Bordeaux, congratulated Switzerland for hosting the forum, saying this initiative could "unite all the countries in preparing peace conditions."

"We will be at the meeting, proposed to Switzerland, with all the countries which want long-lasting peace," the French president said. "Peace that respects international law and rules."

Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis previously said that Russia must participate in a global peace summit "sooner or later," adding that Switzerland had invited it as well.

Russia refused to participate even if invited before the place of the summit was confirmed.

President Volodymyr Zelensky, in turn, stressed in March that Ukraine "does not see a place for Russia" during the peace summit, as it continues to attack Ukraine on a daily basis.

Read also: Opinion: 6 obstacles to peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country.

* Following up on a story from earlier in the week, VoteVets, a progressive veterans organization, is now investing $200,000 in support of an ad slamming Senate hopeful Tim Sheehy. The Montana Republican is facing questions about conflicting accounts hes told about a gunshot wound.

* In Wisconsin, Republican state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos hired former state Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman after the 2020 election to audit the states election results. Three years and more than $2 million in taxpayer dollars later, Gableman is now representing those trying to recall Vos.

* Republican Sen. Josh Hawley is heavily favored to win a second term in the fall, but his Democratic opponent in Missouri, Lucas Kunce, is raising enough funds to mount a credible challenge. Axios reported this week that Kunce raised over $2.25 million between January and March.

* Republican lawmakers in Colorado this week tried to impeach Secretary of State Jena Griswold after she concluded that Donald Trump was ineligible for the 2024 ballot on 14th Amendment grounds. The legislatures Democratic majority, not surprisingly, rejected the GOPs impeachment effort.

* Though Trump still occasionally mocks Gov. Ron DeSantis, NBC News reported that the Florida Republican told donors and supporters at a private retreat last weekend that he plans to help raise money for the former presidents 2024 campaign.

* In New Hampshire, Democratic Rep. Annie Kuster is retiring, but this week, she threw her support behind a possible successor: former Executive Councilor Colin Van Ostern, who managed one of the congresswomans earlier campaigns. Former New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch also endorsed Van Ostern.

* And Robert F. Kennedys independent presidential campaign this week fired Rita Palma, who apparently falsely identified herself as the New York state director for the conspiracy theorist, and who said the point of Kennedys candidacy was to help put Trump back in the White House.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays slightly-earlier-than-usual edition of quick hits.

* This proved to be quite a legislative fight: The House voted to renew a powerful surveillance program on Friday, two days after a band of 19 conservative privacy hawks revolted against Republican leadership and blocked the legislation on the floor when their demands were not met. The vote was 273-147 and was overwhelmingly bipartisan, with both Republicans and Democrats voting in favor of the legislation.

* Its hard not to notice just how much effort Biden is putting into student loan debt relief: President Joe Biden announced Friday that his administration is canceling $7.4 billion in student loans for 277,000 borrowers.

* In Israel: The United States dispatched its top military commander for the Middle East to Israel on Thursday, after President Biden stated that, despite recent friction, American support for Israel is ironclad in the event of an attack by Iran. Irans leaders have repeatedly vowed to punish Israel for an April 1 strike in Syria that killed several senior Iranian commanders. Israel has put its military on alert, and Mr. Biden said on Wednesday that Iran was threatening a significant attack.

* Getting Beijings attention: President Joe Biden said Thursday that U.S. defense commitment to Pacific allies was ironclad as he gathered Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the White House in the midst of growing concern about provocative Chinese military action in the Indo-Pacific.

* There were some nuanced differences, but the optics are far from ideal: Even as some of President Bidens top campaign officials were attacking Donald J. Trumps campaign for soliciting donations to pay his legal fees, the Biden-aligned Democratic National Committee was helping pay for lawyers in the special counsel investigation into Mr. Bidens handling of classified documents.

* This really isnt how immigration policy is supposed to work in this country: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has signed a law that would allow local law enforcement officials to arrest some undocumented immigrants and state courts to order their deportation, making Iowa the second state to recently challenge the federal governments authority on immigration policies.

* Hmm: Conservative judicial activist Leonard Leo said he will not comply with a subpoena issued by Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee as part of their ongoing investigation into ethics practices at the Supreme Court.

* The whole right-to-repair conversation is advancing in interesting ways: The next time you need to have your iPhone fixed, you may not have to pay as much to get it working just the way it used to. Apple told The Washington Post it is easing a key restriction on iPhone repairs. Starting this fall, owners of an iPhone 15 or newer will be able to get their broken devices fixed with used parts  including screens, batteries and cameras  without any change in functionality.

Have a safe weekend.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
For those concerned about Irans nuclear program, The Washington Post published an unsettling report this week, starting with a factory known as Fordow and the alarming changes nuclear inspectors discovered at the facility in February.

The same Post report, the details of which have not been independently verified by MSNBC or NBC News, added that Iran is now closer to nuclear weapons capability than at any time in the countrys history. The article went on to note that Iran now has a supply of highly enriched uranium that could be converted to weapons-grade fuel for at least three bombs in a time frame ranging from a few days to a few weeks.

As regular readers know, I periodically like to bang my head against this particular wall, but I think the political world should pause periodically to come to terms with just how severe the consequences of Donald Trumps policy toward Iran have been. Lets revisit our earlier coverage and take stock.

It was Joe Cirincione, whose expertise in international nuclear diplomacy has few rivals, who wrote a piece for NBC News a few years ago explaining that the international community has been tasked with trying to undo the damage Donald Trump caused when he left an agreement that had effectively shrunk Irans [nuclear] program, froze it for a generation and put it under lock and camera.

I continue to believe this is an underappreciated truth. The international agreement with Iran did exactly what it set out to do: The policy dramatically curtailed Tehrans nuclear ambitions and established a rigorous system of monitoring and verification. Once the policy took effect, each of the parties agreed that the participants were holding up their end of the bargain, and Irans nuclear program was, at the time, on indefinite hold.

And then Trump took office and got to work abandoning the policy for reasons he was never able to explain.

In broad strokes, Barack Obama set out to use economic sanctions to get Iran to the international negotiating table. That worked and a breakthrough agreement eventually followed. Trump came to believe he could duplicate the strategy by abandoning the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), restoring the old sanctions, and adding new ones.

If Obamas sanctions led to a landmark deal, the argument went, then maybe Trumps sanctions could produce an even better deal.

Except, thats not what happened. In reality, once the United States was no longer a part of the agreement, the West lost verification access to Tehrans program, and Iran almost immediately became more dangerous by starting up advanced centrifuges and ending its commitment to limit enrichment of uranium.

A couple of years ago, Robert Malley, the then-special envoy for Iran, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that after Trumps decision, Iranian attacks on U.S. personnel in the region got worse, Iranian support for regional proxies got worse, and the pace of the Iranians nuclear research program got much worse.

A year later, Colin Kahl, the then-under secretary of Defense, explained to the House Armed Services Committee that Irans nuclear progress since Trump abandoned the international nuclear agreement has been remarkable. Around the same time, the Pentagon told Congress that Iran could make enough fissile for one nuclear bomb in about 12 days  a number that is now smaller  as opposed to the year it wouldve taken while the 2015 Iran nuclear deal was in effect.

How Trump arrived at his decision adds insult to injury. One of my favorite stories about the Iran deal came a few months into Trumps term in the White House, when the then-president held a lengthy meeting with top members of his team: Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Defense Secretary James Mattis, White House National Security Adviser H. R. McMaster, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford. Each of the officials told Trump the same thing: It was in the United States interest to preserve the existing JCPOA policy.

The Republican expected his team to tell him how to get out of the international agreement, not how to stick with it. When his own foreign policy and national security advisers told him the policy was working, Trump had a bit of a meltdown.

Soon after, he abandoned the JCPOA anyway, not because it was failing, but because Trump was indifferent to its success.

The world is now dealing with the consequences.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
On Tuesday afternoon, Republican-appointed justices on the Arizona Supreme Court ruled that a 160-year-old near-total abortion ban  first adopted before Arizona was even a state  is enforceable. By the early evening, Senate hopeful Kari Lake was denouncing the decision as out of step with Arizonans.

The rhetoric was understandable. The Republican conspiracy theorist has already lost one statewide race, and hoping to prevent another failure, the candidate is taking subtle steps to appear more mainstream, hoping that voters in the Grand Canyon State conveniently forget everything shes said and done in recent years.

But that was just Lakes first step. NBC News reported:

The Senate candidate also posted a video to social media yesterday in which Lake seemed to suggest that she supports reproductive rights, despite her record pointing in the opposite direction. I chose life, she said in the video. But Im not every woman. I want to make sure that every woman who finds herself pregnant has more choices so that she can make that choice that I made.

Look, Im mindful of the context. Lake narrowly lost her gubernatorial race two years ago because she alienated mainstream voters with her far-right and conspiratorial views. Shes not only desperate to appear less extreme, the Republican also realizes that a whole lot of abortion rights advocates are poised to turn out in the fall to support a proposed constitutional amendment on reproductive rights.

For that matter, Im also keenly aware of the fact that some politicians have been known to take dramatic 180-degree turns in the hopes of winning an election.

But this is one for the books. As recently as 2022  hardly ancient history  Lake said in reference to the 1864 abortion ban, We have a great law on the books right now.

A spokesperson for her Senate campaign claimed this week that Lake wasnt referring to the 160-year-old policy. That was not a credible defense: As a New York Times report explained, the Republican candidate literally cited the 1864 laws number in the Arizona state code when endorsing the policy a couple of years ago.

Im incredibly thrilled that we are going to have a great law thats already on the books. I believe its ARS 13-3603, Lake said in a 2022 interview. The same report added that she made other remarks in support of the 1864 law during her gubernatorial candidacy.

The question the Republican ought to be answering right now is not whether she currently supports the old abortion ban, but rather, why she suddenly changed her mind after repeatedly and publicly endorsing the old abortion ban.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
When Rep. Matt Gaetz decided in the fall that it was time to try to oust then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the process unfolded rather quickly. On Monday, Oct. 2, the Florida Republican took the procedural step, filing whats known as a motion to vacate the chair. On Tuesday, Oct. 3  less than 24 hours after the motion was filed  McCarthy lost his gavel.

Months later, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is eager to bring down McCarthys successor, though the process is proving to be vastly different.

It was three weeks ago today when the right-wing Georgian filed her own motion to oust Speaker Mike Johnson, though unlike Gaetzs effort, the congresswoman did not trigger any votes. Instead, Greene effectively initiated an uncertain process and got to work looking for allies.

So far, she hasnt found any. In fact, while Johnson has plenty of intraparty critics, a grand total of zero GOP members have publicly endorsed Greenes effort, and its worth appreciating why.

Part of the problem for Greene is that she likely hoped for some assistance from her pal at Mar-a-Lago, and that help has not materialized. In fact, the opposite is true: Donald Trump is actually cozying up to Johnson as members of the former presidents team make clear that they have no use for the effort to strip the speaker of his gavel. Politico reported this week:

The report quoted another person close with Trump who added that the former presidents operation has grown weary of the constant motion-to-vacate threats. Its no way to run a party, the source said.

But just as important is the fact that no one in the House Republican conference, including Greene, has any idea who could replace Johnson  the GOPs fifth choice for speaker after contingents within the party rejected the other nominees. Axios reported:

Republican Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas, for example, said he wants to keep Johnson in office, not because of his deep support for the Louisianan, but because nobody wants the job. Who wants the job? And who could do the job?

Even Greene struggled with the question resulting from her own plan. When Axios pressed the Georgia Republican on who would replace Johnson, she said there a lot of talented people in the GOP conference. But asked if she has any specific names to offer, Greene replied, No, I dont.

In other words, the beleaguered House speaker appears likely to prevail  at least for now  not because hes done a good job and earned the respect of his colleagues, but because his party doesnt want to deal with the power vacuum that would be left in his wake.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
CAIRO, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirmed on Friday their rejection of any Israeli ground military operation in the southernmost Gaza Strip city of Rafah.

During a phone conversation, the two top diplomats discussed efforts to achieve a ceasefire and increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Shoukry stressed the need to continue to pressure Israel to comply with its responsibilities as the occupying power, stop targeting defenseless civilians, and open the land border crossings between Israel and the strip to increase the flow of aid.

He also urged for removing obstacles to the entry of aid, in addition to allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes in northern Gaza.

The Egyptian minister also reaffirmed his country's rejection of attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians outside their lands, saying these attempts, aimed at liquidating the Palestinian cause, constitute a grave violation of the provisions of international law.

Shoukry and Blinken also touched on the growing tensions in the region, highlighting the importance of efforts to contain the ongoing escalation, given its negative effects on regional stability.

Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 200 were taken hostage.

The over six-month-long war in Gaza has so far killed 33,634 Palestinians and wounded 76,214 others since its outbreak, according to the Ministry of Health in Gaza on Friday. 
Its not every day that a sitting lieutenant governor faces a criminal investigation, which makes the latest developments in Georgia awfully interesting. The Associated Press reported:

If it seems as if this story has been percolating for a long while, its not your imagination. My MSNBC colleague Jahan Jones noted last summer, for example, that Georgias Republican lieutenant governor had reportedly been identified as an unindicted co-conspirator in the 2020 fake electors scheme, but a state judge barred Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from pursuing Burt Jones because shed hosted a fundraiser for the lieutenant governors opponent.

It led the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia  an agency that supports local district attorneys  to announce that it would name a special counsel to examine the allegations surrounding the Republican in light of Willis apparent conflict of interest.

Yesterday, the councils executive director, Pete Skandalakis, said he would personally take on the matter. A New York Times report added that Skandalakis spent more than a quarter-century as the elected district attorney in a five-county area southwest of Atlanta, and has had experience with other sensitive, high-profile cases.

Time will tell if and when Jones runs into legal trouble  the Georgian has said publicly he doesnt believe hes done anything wrong  but if hes ultimately indicted, the lieutenant governor will have plenty of company: It was last summer when Donald Trump was among the 19 people charged with felony counts in connection with efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia.

As for those specifically interested in the fake-electors plot, that there are still plenty of ongoing investigations unfolding at the state level. In Michigan, for example, state Attorney General Dana Nessel filed charges against a group of fake electors from the 2020 election last summer. Months later, there were related developments in Nevada. Around the same time, Kris Mayes, Arizonas Democratic state attorney general, told CNN that her office was still overseeing a robust investigation related to related alleged crimes  and it appears she wasnt kidding.

We can apparently now add Georgia to the same list.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Over the course of the last couple of years, Donald Trump has shared a few unkind words about special counsel Jack Smith. The former president has, for example, referred to the prosecutor as a thug in a mental state of derangement who may very well turn out to be a criminal.

Soon after, the Republican condemned the special counsel as a mad dog psycho. Hes also accused Smith of overseeing a Gestapo type operation, as well as being an animal and a lunatic. At one point, Trump suggested the special counsels investigation was treasonous.

But last week, the presumptive GOP nominee broke new ground, suggesting Smith should be sanctioned for attacking a highly respected Judge, Aileen Cannon, who is presiding over his FAKE Documents Hoax case in Florida.

None of this reflected reality in any way. Cannon and the special counsel have, in fact, clashed over procedural matters, but (a) Smith never attacked the jurist; (b) no one seriously believes the controversial, Trump-appointed judge, whose competence and impartiality have repeatedly come into question, is highly respected; (c) the classified documents case is neither fake nor a hoax; and (d) the idea that the prosecutor should be sanctioned for pressing Cannon to follow the law is hopelessly insane.

But the former president nevertheless returned to the subject yesterday, publishing a follow-up item to his social media platform. As Axios reported:

This actually understated matters a bit. In his online missive, the former president argued that President Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland, and Smith are trying to illegally intimidate and harass Cannon.

In other words, the presumptive GOP nominee would have the public believe that the special counsel and the nations chief law enforcement officials are engaged in criminal misconduct against a federal district court judge.

Trump went on to say that Biden, Garland, and Smith are calling Cannon terrible names, wrongfully threatening her with Impeachment, and disrespecting her.

Again, for those with even a passing interest in reality, the Republicans claims are plainly delusional. No one involved in the prosecution of this case has engaged in name-calling toward the presiding judge. Theyve also not threatened to impeach her.

But this isnt a Trump tells hysterical lies post. Rather, there are two other areas of concern here.

The first is the truly breathtaking levels of hypocrisy on display. Trump, more so than any modern American political leader, has gone after sitting judges with a vengeance  disrespecting them, calling them terrible names, and at times even going after members of their families.

If anyone has any doubts about this, they should feel free to ask U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel, U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan, New York State Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan, New York State Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron, and U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, each of whom has been on the receiving end of Trump delegitimizing tantrums.

If the former president believes such conduct constitutes illegal harassment, he might as well turn himself into the authorities now.

But the other angle of interest was something else the Republican wrote in his online rant:

He made a similar comment last week, while calling for sanctions, asserting without cause that Smith is obviously trying to play the ref.

Weve probably all heard the every accusation a confession expression, but this is ridiculous. Trump has a variety of reasons to launch campaigns against the judges overseeing his cases, but the more the former president talks about others working the refs, the more he makes clear that he goes after judges and their families as part of a larger effort to work the refs.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Channel 9 sat down with Madeline Sotos biological father regarding her death and disappearance.

Investigative reporter Shannon Butler spoke to him about Maddie and her life.

I miss her so much. Im just trying to do her justice, he said in their conversation.

The full story with Maddies father will be on Channel 9 Eyewitness News at 6 p.m.

The 13-year-old girl out of Osceola County was reported missing in late February and found dead.

In light of her case, Orange County Public Schools has changed its student absence notification policy.

No charges have been filed in connection to her death, and law enforcement continues to investigate.

Read a timeline of the events involving Madeline Soto:

Monday, Feb. 26

Madelines mother, Jennifer Soto, reported to Orange County deputies that her daughter had disappeared.

Read: Orange County deputies search for missing 13-year-old girl

Tuesday, Feb. 27

Channel 9 spoke one-on-one with Jennifer Soto on Feb. 27, a day after her daughter had been reported missing.

Jennifer Soto said that her boyfriend, Stephan Sterns, dropped her daughter off at a church near Hunters Creek Middle School, where she was a student.

Sterns also told investigators Madeline Soto wanted to walk the rest of the way to school, but she never made it.

WATCH: Jennifer Soto, Stephan Sterns speak to Channel 9 about Madeline Sotos disappearance

The Orange County Sheriffs Office said Friday evening that Madeline Sotos body has been found. Investigators said Osceola County deputies found the missing 13-year-old girls body at about 4:30 p.m. in a wooded area along Hickory Tree Road.

Detectives believe Stephan Sterns killed 13-year-old Madeline Soto on Monday morning at a Kissimmee apartment complex.

Investigators discovered the body of 13-year-old Madeline Soto on Friday afternoon.

Investigators discovered the body of 13-year-old Madeline Soto on Friday afternoon.

Investigators discovered the body of 13-year-old Madeline Soto on Friday afternoon.

Sources say that Maddies body was found in rural St. Cloud near Hickory Tree Road.

Police and deputies canvassed the area of Osceola County for 13-year-old Madeline Soto.

The Kissimmee Police Department will handle the search for Madeline Soto, said Chief Betty Holland.

The sheriff said the efforts will now shift to recovering her body.

Sheriff John Mina said he is confident that she is dead, and recovery efforts will continue.

Members of the community will gather to pray for 13-year-old Madeline Soto.

Deputies in Orange County said 13-year-old Madeline Soto has been missing since Monday morning. And now, her mothers boyfriend is in jail on charges of sexual battery and possession of child sex abuse material. Stephan Sterns was supposed to go before an Orange County judge Thursday morning but refused to be in court.

More than 50 members of the Orange County Emergency Response Team looked for the 13-year-old in various areas as our detectives continued their investigation.

More than 50 members of the Orange County Emergency Response Team looked for the 13-year-old in various areas as our detectives continued their investigation.

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

Madeline Soto

The Orange County Sheriffs Office on Friday confirmed that the body of Madeline Soto, 13, has been located.

Wednesday, Feb. 28

Orange County Sheriff John Mina said his deputies were working with several other agencies to search for Madeline Soto in the areas where she was reportedly last seen.

The Orange County Sheriffs Office said more than 50 members of its Emergency Response Team were searching for Madeline Soto near Osprey Park on Wednesday.

On Wednesday evening, the Kissimmee Police Department, in conjunction with the Sheriffs Office, arrested Sterns on charges of sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material.

Thursday, Feb. 29

The Sheriffs Office then said it believed Sterns never dropped off Madeline Soto and is considered the prime suspect in her disappearance.

Deputies said Sterns was captured on camera throwing her backpack and school laptop into a dumpster on the morning of Feb. 26.

Investigators said Madeline Sotos body was seen in Sterns car before he drove away.

Read: Madeline Sotos body found in rural Osceola County

Friday, March 1

At 1:30 p.m., Mina held a news conference to say that Madeline Soto had not been located, and he was confident that she was dead.

He said that Kissimmee police would take the lead on the homicide investigation.

Mina confirmed that Sterns never dropped off Madeline Soto near her school Monday morning, as he had claimed.

At 5 p.m., Kissimmee police said that Sterns was at the intersection of East Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway and Old Hickory Tree Road and the intersection of Old Hickory Tree and Nolte Roads between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 26.

Police said they believed Sterns had a flat tire and might have been changing it in the same area.

At 6:25 p.m., the Sheriffs Office said that Madeline Sotos body had been found.

Investigators said Osceola County deputies found the body in a wooded area along Hickory Tree Road.

Read: Madeline Soto: Bain asks FDLE to investigate how photo of body was posted to Lopezs social media

Saturday, March 2

Stephan Sterns waived public appearance again on Saturday, while homicide charges are not yet filed for Madeline Soto.

Sterns is being held at the Osceola County jail without bond.

Read: Former chief judge explains next step in Madeline Soto case as evidence builds against prime suspect

Tuesday, March 5

Channel 9 learned that the story Jennifer Soto gave to law enforcement did not line up with what investigators know.

Jennifer Soto said that her last conversation with her daughter happened the night before her disappearance.

But a report Channel 9 obtained on March 5 shows that Soto told deputies that she saw her daughter the morning of the girls disappearance.

Read: Madeline Soto: Story Jennifer Soto gave law enforcement doesnt line up with what investigators know

No one has been charged in Madeline Sotos death. But investigators are looking into who knew what and when. That means they are reviewing the initial interviews of the couple and the ones conducted later on.

Sources told Channel 9s Shannon Butler that the statements about the timeline of Madeline Sotos disappearance have not always been consistent.

Tuesday, March 12

Deputies found the missing 13-year-old girls body March 1 in a wooded area in rural Osceola County.

Deputies named Stephan Sterns -- Sotos mothers boyfriend -- the prime suspect in the girls disappearance days before her body was found.

On March 12, the State Attorneys Office filed 60 new charges against Sterns, including multiple counts of sexual battery with a child and lewd or lascivious molestation.

Sterns is currently being held in the Osceola County jail for child sex crimes.

Read: Madeline Soto case: Stephan Sterns faces 60 new charges

Tuesday, March 12

Orange County Public Schools moved to change the district attendance policy on Tuesday after much concern from parents over the current attendance policy.

There had been a growing number of parents who pushed for change to school absence notification procedure in light of the Madeline Soto case earlier in March. Orange County Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez also had said Orange County staff was looking into how school staff could address the issue.

Thursday, March 14

A trial date was set for Stephan Sterns, the prime suspect in the disappearance of 13-year-old Madeline Soto.

A hearing is scheduled for April 24, Sterns jury trial for May 13, and his arraignment for April 2.

Thursday, April 4

The Medical Examiners Office for Orange and Osceola Counties said Thursday that it cannot release its report on Sotos autopsy, which would reveal her cause of death.

The Medical Examiners Office said the report is confidential and exempt from being publicly released because it involves a minor whose death was related to an act of domestic violence.

Read: Madeline Soto: Kissimmee police chief says detectives cant be rushed in their investigation

Friday, April 5

Newly released 911 calls to dispatchers on Feb. 26 revealed how the search for Madeline Soto began.

We have a missing child since this morning, one caller states. We already called three times, and the police didnt show up yet.

It was the first time deputies in Orange County learned the teen had not shown up at Hunters Creek Middle School.

The Orange County Sheriffs Office released the calls but redacted the information about who made them.

Read: We already called 3 times: 911 calls shed light on how the search for Madeline Soto began

Listen to the full 911 calls below:

Friday, April 5

Channel 9 saw the arrest of Stephen Sterns, the prime suspect in the death and disappearance of Madeline Soto, on March 1.

He was accused of having sexual abuse material.

Investigative reporter Shannon Butler obtained the dashcam video of Sterns from an Osceola County deputys car.

He does not say much, but it offers a look at his demeanor after Madeline was found dead.

Watch: Dashcam video shows Suspect Stephan Sterns as he was transported to Osceola County Jail

Monday, April 8

Orange County Public Schools started implementing its updated call notification to parents of absent students.

It was the first day for the district to notify parents earlier than noon for students who were not in their first-period classes.

The move followed the disappearance and death of Madeline Soto. Her mother said she didnt receive a notification that Madeline never made it to school until after the school day ended.

Sadly, the tragedy with Maddie brought this to light, and weve been able to make this change to help our families know if their child is absent in the morning, said Superintendent Maria Vazquez.

Read: Over 34K calls made to parents on 1st day of updated OCPS absentee notification system

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
'Magnificent': Japan gifts more cherry trees to Washington as token of enduring friendship

Visitors and locals flock to the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. during the springtime season to see the cherry trees blossom.

Japan plans to help adorn Washington, D.C., with even more of the capital's famed cherry blossoms, a gift the Asian nation said will continue to serve as a token of an enduring friendship.

President Joe Biden confirmed news of the 250 new trees on Wednesday after welcoming Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko Kishida back to the White House.

Like our friendship  these trees are timeless, inspiring and thriving, Biden said at the ceremony. The gesture is meant to commemorate the United States' 250th birthday in July 2026.

Prime Minister Kishida is in town for a visit and state dinner, and to celebrate the deep and historic ties between the two countries.

Heres what we know.

President Joe Biden welcomes Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan to the White House in Washington on April 10, 2024.

Bond will continue to grow, just like cherry blossoms

Prime Minister Kishida said he decided to send over the trees as soon as he heard that some of the existing trees at the Tidal Basin would be replaced as a result of a multi-year rehab project by the National Park Service.

The trees also were sent to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, he said.

It is said that the cherry trees planted in this area have a lifespan of about 60 years ... (yet) the trees have shown their strong vitality, blooming beautifully for more than a 100 years without wane, Kishida said.

It's a sentiment he is confident can be applied to the Japan-U.S. alliance, saying that it will continue to grow and bloom around the world, thriving on friendship, respect and trust of the people of both countries."

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is pictured in the background of peaking cherry blossom trees in Washington, D.C., on April 12, 2015.

Cherry blossoms connect both countries, first gifted over a century ago

The White House says they welcome the gesture, one that is set to support the rehab project for Tidal Basin and West Potomac Park.

Its spring in Washington. The sun is shining. And every spring, cherry blossoms bloom across this city thanks to a gift from Japan of 3,000 cherry trees from over a century ago, Biden said. People travel all over our country and the world to see these magnificent blossoms.

The cherry trees, Biden says, were first gifted by Japan in 1912, are an enduring reminder of the close bonds of friendship between Americans and Japanese, according to The White House. It's estimated that the trees draw about 1.5 million visitors to the D.C. area every year.

Biden said that he and First Lady Jill Biden and the Kishidas "took a stroll down the driveway, across the lawn here at The White House to visit three cherry blossom trees.

"One that Jill and Mrs. Kishida planted together a year ago and the other two are part of the 250 new trees that Japan is giving to the United States," he said.

The new trees are set to be planted at the Tidal Basin not far from the Martin Luther King memorial, Biden said.

May God bless the Japanese and American people, he said.

A bee collects nectar from the flowers of a blooming Japanese cherry blossom (sakura) tree at the Stadtpark in Vienna on March 22, 2019.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Japan gifts hundreds more famed cherry blossom trees to Washington
Majority of London councils did not consider economic cost of 20mph speed limits

London councils did not consider the economic cost of implementing 20mph speed limits across the capital, The Telegraph can reveal.

Eleven boroughs in the capital have blanket 20mph speed limits across all of their roads, a move made in the hope of reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries among pedestrians and cyclists.

Transport for London (TfL) says that every year 1,000 people are injured or killed by drivers exceeding the speed limit.

However, eight of the 11 boroughs have admitted they have no record of carrying out a formal cost-benefit analysis before lowering their speed limits.

Cost-benefit analyses are supposed to be carried out before public bodies decide to spend taxpayers money on new projects.

Councils for City of London, Hackney, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Lewisham, Richmond and Wandsworth, Southwark, and Tower Hamlets all said in freedom of information (FOI) responses that they had no records of any cost-benefit analysis being done before they introduced 20mph speed limits.

The lower limit now covers half of all roads inside the M25.

It comes after research from the satnav company TomTom found that London was the worlds slowest city in which to drive.

Ranil Jayawardena, the former international trade minister and the MP for North East Hampshire, said: Pro-20mph local government officials often claim that ever slower limits are needed for safety reasons. They imply opponents dont value life. Its powerful rhetoric.

Yet studies show the safety difference between 30mph and 20mph is limited, even negligible. It is certainly much smaller than that between 40mph and 30mph.

Ranil Jayawardena, the MP for North East Hampshire, has questioned the logic behind 20mph zones - Geoff Pugh for the Telegraph

Liam Deacon, the campaigner who asked councils for the evidence backing their 20mph speed limits, said: Polling indicates that, where they have been introduced, blanket 20mph limits are opposed by large majorities.

Yet many rural councils, TfL and nearly all London borough councils are energetically campaigning for them.

John OConnell, the chief executive of the TaxPayers Alliance, said: Residents will be reeling from these revelations that local authorities are forcing controversial schemes through without consideration of the costs.

These 20mph zones are driving motorists crazy, yet numerous councils have failed to do basic due diligence on the pros and cons.

Town halls should urgently review these zones to ensure that they are actually delivering results for local people.

Camden council said that it had carried out an extensive analysis before imposing its blanket 20mph limits nine years ago but gave no further details.

Similarly, Westminster claimed that it had a clear evidenced case on file about its decision to impose blanket 20mph limits in 2019.

Hackney said that it had lost all of its records about introducing 20mph limits in a devastating 2020 cyber-attack, so could not say whether or not officials carried out an analysis.

TfL has previously said that lowering speeds was a crucial part of its so-called Vision Zero plan for reducing road deaths.

Millions of pounds have been spent imposing 20mph limits across the capital, including nearly 17 million by TfL.

A Richmond council spokesman said that its detailed plans for blanket 20mph limits were set out clearly to residents throughout the consultation and engagement period for the proposals.

A council document from March 2019 notes that half of locals opposed the lowering of limits before they were imposed.

While the City of London Corporation said in its FOI response that no economic cost benefit analysis was carried out, a spokesman insisted sufficient evidence was presented to show the benefits of implementing a lower speed limit on reducing the number and severity of casualties.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Member of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland Urszula Paslawska speaks at the parliament's session hall during a long-awaited debate on liberalization of the country's strict abortion law. Marek Antoni Iwanczuk/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Poland's parliament voiced it support for liberalizing the country's near-total abortion ban after most lawmakers voted on Friday in favour of having four bills considered by a special committee.

Poland, a predominantly Catholic country, has some of the most restrictive abortion regulations in Europe, and these were tightened even further in 2020 by the Constitutional Court under the previous nationalist conservative PiS government.

Polish women may only have abortions if they become pregnant through rape or incest, or if their lives are at risk. Women may not have abortions in the case of severe foetal abnormalities, for example.

Lawmakers in new Prime Minister Donald Tusk's centre-left coalition are seeking to relax the law, though they are divided as to how far.

The draft bill brought by Tusk's liberal-conservative Civic Coalition party provides for abortions to be legal up to the 12th week of pregnancy. Left-wing alliance Lewica is calling for the same in its own bill. The alliance also is submitting another bill that calls for other decriminalization measures related to abortion.

Meanwhile the Christian-conservative Third Way party is calling for a return to a compromise solution in place until the Constitutional Court's judgement. That would mean legalizing abortions only if a woman becomes pregnant through a crime or if there is a risk to her or the foetus.

The special committee would try to find a common denominator for a bill that all parties could support. This is likely to be difficult and even if it proves possible, a further hurdle to liberalization would be that any law could be vetoed by President Andrzej Duda, who comes from the PiS.
Supporters of Mali's M5-RFP opposition coalition, gather during a rally at the Independence Square in Bamako

BAMAKO (Reuters) - Malian political parties and civil society groups jointly rejected on Thursday the ruling junta's order to suspend political activities and vowed to mount a legal challenge to what one opposition politician called the "dictatorial" move.

The West African country has been under military rule since a coup in 2020. Tensions have risen in recent weeks, leading major parties and other organisations jointly to call out the junta on March 31 for not scheduling elections within the promised time frame.

The authorities issued a decree on Wednesday suspending until further notice all activities by political parties and groups on the grounds of maintaining public order.

Joining forces again, the parties and civil society groups said they were astonished by the decision and called it a "serious violation ... of democratic freedoms."

The signatories to the declaration said they rejected the decree and would challenge it in court and refuse to participate in any government activity, including ongoing national talks.

They "will resist and will triumph," the declaration said.

Earlier on Thursday, the authorities doubled-down on the decree, ordering television, print and other media in Mali to stop broadcasting or publishing reports on the activities of political parties and groups.

"This decree has surprised and shocked all republicans," said Boubacar Toure, vice-president of the Rally for Mali (RPM) party of ousted president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.

Toure said he thought the Constitutional Court should rule on the issue, but others called for more direct action.

In an online post titled "DICTATORIAL DRIFT," senior opposition politician Housseini Guindo said it was time for "our people ... to resist this ignominy and initiate civil disobedience until the fall of the illegal and illegitimate regime."

Mali's current junta seized power in a second coup in 2021 and later promised to restore civilian rule by March 2024 following elections in February of this year.

However, the authorities said last September they would indefinitely postpone the February elections for technical reasons, deepening concerns about democratic backsliding in West and Central Africa, where there have been eight coups over the past four years.

"We call on Mali's transition government to honour its commitments to its citizens and hold free and fair elections," U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Thursday, expressing deep concern about the suspension of political activities.

(Reporting by Tiemoko Diallo; Additional reporting by Fadima Kontao, Alhousseini Alhadji, and Daphne Psaledakis; Writing by Alessandra Prentice; Editing by Stephen Coates)
ROGERS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A Rogers man accused of threatening to rape and kill Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders was deemed unfit for trial, according to court documents.

Tony Pittman, 53

(Courtesy: Benton County Jail)

Tony Pittman, 53, was arrested on Jan. 2 on first-degree terroristic threatening charges and his case has been suspended waiting for the results of a mental evaluation.

On Tuesday, Pittman was found not fit to stand trial and he cannot be tried until his fitness is restored.

According to an affidavit, Arkansas State Police in Little Rock received calls on Jan. 2 from Pittman saying that he wanted to rape, murder, butcher, and slaughter the governor of Arkansas. He also said he wanted to rape and murder the governors family.

On the final call, Pittman said Why dont you send some nice people here, and I will take care of all of this. And, I will kill Mrs. Huckabee and everyone else, according to the document.

Rogers man accused of threatening to rape, kill Governor Sanders

Troopers with ASP in Lowell went to a Rogers IHOP, where Pittman worked. The manager said Pittman would be arriving for his 5 p.m. shift on a push scooter.

The affidavit said Pittman arrived two and a half hours after his shift was supposed to start. He was then arrested and asked for a lawyer.

Troopers found his wallet on his person containing a Virginia drivers license. Coworkers told the troopers he lived at a motel in Rogers.

The document said that as Pittman was being placed in a patrol car, he smiled and said HooRah after being told why he was under arrest.

Pittmans next court appearance is set for June 11. He is ordered to not contact the governor or her family.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Authorities have arrested a man suspected of beating and sexually assaulting two women along the famed Venice Canals in separate attacks last weekend, the Los Angeles Police Department announced on Friday.

Anthony Jones, 29, was apprehended late Thursday evening in San Diego. According to police, Jones is a Black male who is 6 feet 1 inch tall, 200 pounds, and a transient.

He was booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center on two counts of attempted murder with bail set at $3.25 million. Police did not immediately reveal what evidence led to his arrest or if he has a prior criminal record.

Victim in Venice canal attack identified as a single mom and artist

The attacks occurred late in the evening on April 6.

In the first incident, police say a man approached a woman from behind in the 2700 block of Strongs Drive near the Grand Canal and struck her in the head with a hard object, knocking her unconscious.

In the second incident, which occurred about an hour later, police say the same man assaulted a woman who was walking near the Sherman Canal. The horrific, bloody scenes shocked the community.

On Friday, police confirmed that both attacks had a sexual element.

Mary Klein, 54, is seen in a photo posted on a GoFundMe campaign. (GoFundMe)

Mary Klein, 54, suffered fractures to her jaw, broken teeth, a large gash on the back of her head and multiple contusions in the April 6, 2024 attack. (GoFundMe)

The suspect in the Venice canal attacks is seen on a Ring security camera video on April 6, 2024. (Viewer video)

The Venice Canals are seen on April 9, 2024. (KTLA)

Blood stains seen on the back porch of a Venice residents home after a woman was violently assaulted. (KTLA)

Mary Klein, 54, a single mother, suffered fractures to her jaw, broken teeth, a large gash on the back of her head and multiple contusions, according to a friend who started a GoFundMe campaign to pay Kleins medical bills.

[Marys] spirits are strong and she is overflowing with surprise and hope that so many people are reaching out with words of strength, the organizer wrote. Over $30,000 had been raised as of Friday afternoon.

The condition of the second victim was not released.

At Fridays news conference, L.A. City Councilwoman Traci Park thanked police for quickly apprehending a suspect and expressed frustration with what she described as a decline in basic safety in Americas second-largest city.

People in the city of Los Angeles are sick and tired of feeling unsafe, said Park. No woman, no visitor, no family should be unsafe walking in any neighborhood in the city of Los Angeles, much less our citys number one tourist destination.

Park blasted policies that, she says, have allowed dangerous people to roam the streets.

I am sick and tired of living in the middle of a failed social experiment, she said. We have all had enough. Enough with the ridiculous soft on crime/defund the police/catch-and-release/ criminals are the victims policies that got us into this mess. Enough!

Police said the case would soon be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office.

I am proud of the tireless work and dedication to public safety demonstrated by all involved in this case, especially our specialized detectives, said LAPD interim Police Chief Dominic Choi.

I thank Councilwoman Park for her unwavering support, continually working together to ensure the safety of our communities. The people of Los Angeles are safer today because this predator is in custody.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Man arrested for allegedly inscribing hate symbol used by KKK into Squirrel Hill synagogue

A local man is behind bars after police said he inscribed a possible hate symbol onto the doors of a synagogue in Squirrel Hill.

On April 8, Pittsburgh police received an email from the Shaare Torah Synagogue that included several pictures of a male inscribing a possible hate symbol on the doors of the synagogue.

It was originally reported as a Star of David, but closer inspection and more photos showed it closely resembled a hate symbol used by the KKK, police said.

William Murray, 33, was arrested following consultation with the District Attorneys Office.

Murray is charged with ethnic intimidation, institutional vandalism and criminal mischief. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 14.

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AMMAN, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed on Friday efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and deliver sufficient aid to the Palestinian enclave.

In a phone conversation, the two sides discussed regional developments and efforts to reduce escalation in the Middle East region, stressing the priority of removing all restrictions on the entry of sufficient and immediate aid into Gaza, according to a statement by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry.

Safadi emphasized the necessity of opening all crossings for the entry of aid, with the aim of alleviating the humanitarian catastrophe caused by the ongoing war and the obstacles hindering the delivery and distribution of aid in Gaza.

He stressed that Jordan is capable of sending plenty of aid trucks to Gaza on a daily basis, once the northern crossings are opened and the United Nations and its agencies are able to receive and distribute the aid.

Safadi also affirmed the urgency to stop the aggression against Gaza and warned of the disastrous consequences of Israel launching a ground attack on Rafah, the southernmost city of Gaza.

During the phone call, The two officials also discussed issues regarding bilateral relations. 
Man arrested in Columbus found with thousands of dollars of drugs, 3 firearms, sheriff says

The Muscogee County Sheriffs Office says a man was arrested Thursday for multiple drug-related charges. When the Muscogee County Sheriffs Office Special Operations Unit executed their search warrants, thousands of dollars of drugs were found and seized.

According to MCSO, Quincy Hicks faces eight charges, including having controlled substances within 1,000 feet of a school.

Deputies executed search warrants on Hicks, finding and seizing the following:

Three firearms

237 Grams of Cocaine valued at $23,700

20 Marijuana plants valued at $40,000

$2,279.00 in US Currency

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As a result, Hicks was charged with:

Trafficking Cocaine

Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute

Manufacturing Marijuana

Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Crime

Possession of a Controlled Substance within 1000 Feet of a School

Possession of Drug-Related Objects

The sheriffs office said Hicks was taken to the Muscogee County Jail without incident.

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Man charged in connection to suspicious death in southern Johnson County

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A suspect in an Edgerton, Kansas, mans death is back in Johnson County.

Joseph Andrew Wacaster, 31, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Cade Blackburn, 27, a man who died on March 30.

KC Local Control lawsuit waiting on legal responses

Investigators said Blackburn was found dead inside a home near 5th and Edgewood Drive in southern Johnson County.

The Johnson County Sheriffs Office said someone called 911 on March 30 about a suspicious death.

When deputies went inside the home, they found the 27-year-olds body. Investigators believe Wacaster killed Blackburn.

Wacaster was arrested in Oklahoma but has now been moved to Johnson County. Hes scheduled to make his first court appearance in Johnson County Friday afternoon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged a man on Thursday for a fatal shooting at a Jennings convenience store.

According to the St. Louis County Police Departments probable cause statement, the shooting occurred around 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 14, at the New York Market & Liquor convenience store, located in the 8700 block of Jennings Station Road.

Officers arrived to find a woman, later identified as Keila Buckner, suffering from a gunshot wound. Buckner was taken to a local hospital but later died. She was 25.

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Police claim Buckner arrived at the store with Devin Macon after the two had agreed to exchange firearms and cash. The two entered the store and began talking in close proximity while holding their own gun.

At one point, police claim Macon went to hand cash to Buckner, but then went for her firearm. A struggle happened and Buckners gun went off and fell to the floor. Macon shot his gun and struck Buckner in the spine. Macon grabbed Buckners gun and fled.

Macon was arrested in a SWAT raid.

Prosecutors charged Macon with second-degree murder and stealing a firearm. Hes being held on a $750,000 cash-only bond.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
A Wisconsin man has been charged by Milwaukee County prosecutors with the murder and mutilation of 19-year-old Sade Robinson, the Milwaukee County Sheriffs Office announced Friday.

Maxwell Anderson, 33, was charged with first-degree murder, dismemberment of a corpse, and arson, according to the criminal complaint. Investigators say he killed Robinson and then cut apart her body with the intent to conceal her corpse, and set fire to her car.

Anderson met Robinson at a local Milwaukee restaurant on the evening of April 1, where they were seen on security footage sharing a meal before leaving around 6:30 p.m., the criminal complaint says. From there, Robinsons location was traced to a nearby bar and finally back to Andersons address, according to investigators who used data shared on the app Life360 to reconstruct her final hours.

Robinsons phone was then traced to Warnimont Park in nearby Cudahy between 2 and 3 a.m.where a severed leg, later identified as hers, was found later on April 2. Authorities also located her torched car in a different location in Milwaukee.

Police searched Andersons home on April 4, where they said they found bloodstains in one of the bedrooms and on the walls leading to the basement, as well as several empty canisters of gasoline.

Two days later, on April 6, investigators found more body parts belonging to Robinson in Milwaukee. A foot that matched the leg turned up in a different part of town, leading investigators to believe her body parts had been scattered in an attempt to confuse authorities.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Robinson family, friends, and the Milwaukee community who have embraced this family. We are sorry for your loss. Its such a tragic incident, Sheriff Denita Ball said at a press conference.

According to a GoFundMe organized by Robinson family friends, 19-year-old Sade was studying criminal justice and was about to graduate from Milwaukee Area Technical College.

Sade was a loving daughter, a cherished sister, and a dear friend to many, Erika Brown, a family friend and the GoFundMe organizer, said.

The pain of losing Sade has left a void in the hearts of her family, especially her grieving mother and little sister, along with other relatives, friends, and the entire community who loved and supported her.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Man dies after hit by pickup truck on Jefferson Highway in Augusta County

AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. (WFXR)  Virginia State Police (VSP) says a man died after he was hit while trying to cross the Jefferson Highway in Augusta County on April 11.

The crash happened shortly after 8 p.m. on Route 250, Jefferson Highway, near Long Meadow Road. State police said a 2001 Dodge RAM 1500 was traveling west on the highway when it was unable to avoid hitting 58-year-old Sean P. Burns, from Fisherville.

He was taken to the hospital where he died from his injuries.

This happens all the time: Hershberger Road death adds to growing pedestrian crashes in Roanoke

Investigators said Burns was attempting to cross the five-lane highway when he was hit.

According to VSP, it was raining during the crash and Burns was not wearing any reflective clothing.

State police confirmed the driver of the Dodge remained at the scene and is not being charged.

The crash remains under investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A man was fatally shot while inside his home in Lebanon County, and police are trying to determine who fired the gun.

According to Lebanon City Police, Hector Pomales-Torres, 24, died from his injuries at the Good Samaritan Hospital after being shot by a single bullet.

Police say they began the investigation after they were called to the hospital just before 10 p.m. on Wednesday for a gunshot victim.

Franklin County dog owners accused of animal torture

It was discovered that Pomales-Torres was inside his home before being shot, and police say other people who were also inside were handling a firearm that fired and fatally struck him.

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The investigation is ongoing, anyone with any information is asked to contact police at (717) 272-6611.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A man was shot outside of an elementary school in Florida on Friday afternoon, according to officials.

The Brevard County Sheriffs Office responded to the area of Balfern Street in Port St. John around 1:20 p.m. for reports of a person being shot after a firearm accidentally went off.

Florida officer airlifted after being shot at gun range

The man was pronounced dead at the scene from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. It is unclear where that wound was.

Officials said the shooting was accidental and occurred in a vehicle in the pickup line on a roadway leading up to Challenger 7 Elementary School.

The school was immediately put into lockdown until an all-clear was given.

I want to reassure our citizens and especially our parents, that this was an isolated incident that was completely contained inside a vehicle, and while the occupants were in fact headed to the nearby school to pick up their grandchild, they were not at the school or on school property when the incident occurred, Sheriff Wayne Ivey said.

Officials are conducting witness interviews, as they continue their investigation to determine what exactly led up to the incident.

Missing Florida woman found dead in torched SUV after possible carjacking: sheriff

I want to commend our BCSO Communications Center, our Deputies, and of course, our School Administrators and Teachers for how they responded to this critical incident and took every precaution to make certain that our school campus and students were safe from any potential harm, Sheriff Ivey added.

Anyone with information regarding this shooting is asked to contact Agent Samantha Grimes at 321-633-8413 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-8477, where you can remain anonymous.

No further details were provided.

This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Man fined $250 after officials say he tortured a wolf in Wyoming. Activists are outraged

Photos and videos surfaced this week showing a man parading a live wolf around a Wyoming bar  and the man was fined $250 for the act, reports say.

Now tens of thousands of animal rights advocates from all over the world, including an attorney for an animal wellness organization, are calling for the man to be charged criminally.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department provided the photo and videos to Cowboy State Daily on Wednesday, April 10, the outlet reported. The video confirms some of the details of earlier reports of a wolf being captured, having its mouth taped shut and displayed in a bar before being killed, the outlet reported.

In a news release, Scott Edwards, an attorney for two animal-welfare groups, said the man violated Wyomings anti-cruelty law and should face charges as a result.

Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action, one of the groups, said in the release that the man should not be able to escape prosecution under statutes designed specifically to address this sort of malicious crime and should be arrested for animal cruelty.

After he ran over and crushed an animal with a snowmobile, he used tape to bind the animals mouth shut and then he proceeded to torment the animal, psychologically and physically, Pacelle said. That latter set of actions collectively amounts to a direct violation of the states anti-cruelty statute. He cannot be allowed to conduct this malicious mistreatment of an animal without legal consequence.

The Sublette County Sheriffs Office says it is investigating the Feb. 29 incident and that its office has received an overwhelming number of calls from concerned individuals worldwide, according to posts on Facebook.





While we appreciate the expressed concern and outrage, this influx of calls is hindering our ability to respond promptly to critical situations, sheriffs office officials said in an April 12 post on Facebook.





More than 200 people commented on the post within hours of officials posting it  many of them expressing more outrage that justice needs to be served.

I cant bear to think of the terror that magnificent wolf felt, someone said.

Others pointed out that wolves are demonized in the state, leading to a culture of tolerance regarding cruelty against them.

The state needs to educate humans on how important this Apex predator is to the environment, they said. Folks who are educated on these very intelligent and necessary beings are outraged at the actions and inactions surrounding this horrific event!

The world is watching, Wyoming, someone else said. I hope justice is served.

Hunter thought he harvested 84-pound coyote. It wasnt what he thought, officials say

Determined creature treks over 1,000 miles across the West. Researchers are baffled

Wandering Mexican gray wolf captured in New Mexico  for second time. Frustrating
Man who fled from a Wisconsin home after triggering burglar alarm leads deputies on pursuit with stolen truck

CLEVELAND, Wis. (WFRV)  Authorities in western Wisconsin are looking for a man accused of stealing a pickup truck while fleeing the scene of two separate homes before leading deputies on a pursuit.

A release from the Jackson County Sheriffs Office states that deputies were first notified of a man arriving at a residence on County Road B in Cleveland, claiming to have been in a crash before leaving the home.

Authorities arrest, tie Costco bomb threat and bank robbery in same Wisconsin village to one suspect

While deputies were responding to the area, a residential burglar alarm was reported and a man was reportedly seen fleeing the scene on a UTV. The UTV was later found at a home on Hill Road after deputies pursued the vehicle.

Shortly after, a pickup truck was seen leaving the home on Hill Road, allegedly fleeing from a deputy who made contact with the truck, causing the squad car to become disabled.

Authorities are still looking to identify the suspect and find the stolen vehicle.

The suspect is said to be a medium to tall thin man, with longer hair. He was last seen wearing black shoes and a hooded sweatshirt.

Police in Wisconsin looking for suspect accused of cutting shopper at Pick n Save for taking too long in checkout line

Jackson County Sheriffs Office

Jackson County Sheriffs Office

The vehicle is a 2007 GMC Sierra K2500 pickup with a flatbed and a Wisconsin license plate of EP1809. Deputies noted that the truck should have damage on the drivers side.

Anyone with information on either the suspects whereabouts or the location of the vehicle is asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriffs Office at (715) 284-9009 or your local agency. No additional information was provided.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
Cops have charged the gunman who fatally shot a 19-year-old dad-to-be as he took aim at his ex-girlfriend  the victims aunt  inside the womans East Harlem apartment, police said Friday.

Jose Rodriguez, 54, was hit with murder, assault and weapons possession charges for the Wednesday morning shooting inside an apartment on E. 112th St. near Third Ave., part of NYCHAs Jefferson Houses, cops said.

Rodriguez, who is homeless, pushed his way into ex-girlfriend Melidy Adegas second floor apartment about 3:30 a.m., pulled a gun and started shooting, the horrified woman told the Daily News.

He took out his gun and he shot, pow, pow, Adega, 38, told the Daily News Thursday.

Victim Ramon Alvarez also lived in the apartment and ran into the room to see what was going on, his aunt said.

[He] was getting up from sleep when he heard the commotion, Adega said. [Rodriguez] shot my nephew first. He was shooting in the dark.

Rodriguez then turned and pointed the gun at Adegas face, but the woman grabbed the barrel before he could fire off a shot, she recalled. She was grazed in the shoulder.

When medics arrived, Alvarez was conscious and talking. He was taken to Harlem Hospital, where he took a turn for the worse and died, police said.

Rodriguez sped off on a bicycle, ditching the gun as he made his escape, officials said. Cops arrested him late Thursday. He has 27 prior arrests, 17 of which are felonies, according to police sources.

His arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court was pending Friday.

Adega and Rodriguez had been dating on and off for about four years before she recently ended the abusive relationship.

Hed come over and he started acting violent, Adega said of the shooter. When he said he was going to kill me, I never took it seriously.

Alvarez and his girlfriend were expecting a baby boy next month and planned to celebrate the arrival at a shower scheduled for this weekend.

Shes devastated, Adega said of the victims girlfriend. Thats their first child, and hell never even see the birth.

The slain man was working for the citys Department of Parks & Recreation and working to get his GED, according to the mother-to-bes brother.

He was going to be a great dad, Dorian Lawrence said. Were all very hurt.

Im at a loss for words.
GAZA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- At least three Palestinian journalists were injured in an Israeli shelling targeting them at the Nusseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, Palestinian sources said on Friday.

Eyewitnesses told Xinhua that the Israeli artillery fired a shell towards a group of journalists while they were covering events in the Nusseirat camp.

On Thursday, The Israeli army announced the start of a surprise military operation on the outskirts of the Nusseirat camp.

Medical sources told Xinhua that the three injured journalists arrived at the Shuhada al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah. One of them suffered an amputation of his right foot and scattered shrapnel wounds on his body, while the other two sustained moderate injuries.

There was no comment from the Israeli army on the incident.

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run government media office said in a statement that the Israeli army targeted the three journalists while they were wearing vests with clear "Press" markings.

The statement considered it "a crime of targeting media crews as part of a series of severe violations against Palestinian journalists."

The statement condemned the Israeli army's targeting of media crews as "deliberate and intentional in a clear message to intimidate and threaten them in an attempt to silence the truth."

The International Federation of Journalists was called upon to "condemn this crime and pursue the occupation in international forums and courts for its crimes against journalists and media professionals."

It is not the first time that the Israeli army has targeted journalists while they were covering events during the ongoing war since Oct. 7 last year.

Approximately 140 journalists have been killed in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip over the past six months, according to data from the Gaza government media office. 
Multiple people have suffered serious injuries after a man allegedly crashed a semi-truck into a Department of Public Safety office in Brenham, Texas on Friday. That suspect is now in custody, according to ABC News.

The man was apparently denied a commercial drivers license on April 11 and returned today with the intent to harm, a statement from Washington County Judge Mark Keough read. Photos and video from the scene show a ton of damage to the front of the Texas DPS office, and the Texas Rangers say they are investigating the incident, but there is no further threat to the community, ABC News reports.

The Texas DPS can be thought of as the states DMV. Its responsible for Texass statewide law enforcement and drivers license administration.

We believe this was a criminal act, Washington County Sheriff Otto Hanak told CNN.

Ariel footage from the outlet shows an 18-wheeler with a flatbed trailer loaded with what looks like rebar. DPS sent out a statement saying A commercial motor vehicle ran into the Brenham DPS office, it added that people should stay away from the area so investigators and medical personnel could respond

This is a developing story, and Jalopnik will continue to update it as more information becomes available.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Man killed in hit-and-run crash on Kansas 7 highway. Police look for driver who left scene

Police are searching for the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash after an injured man was found lying on the shoulder of a highway in Kansas City, Kansas, a police spokeswoman said.

At about 1:45 a.m. Friday, officers responded to investigate reports of a person on the shoulder near Kansas 7 highway and Hollingsworth Road, said Officer Jovanna Cheatum with the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department.

Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim among vehicle debris. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, Cheatum said.

No suspect information was released.

The Kansas City, Kansas, Police Departments traffic division was investigating the crash and urged anyone with information to call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477).
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A 52-year-old man has pleaded no contest to charges of gross vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run causing death in connection to a crash that occurred in Oildale last year.

Byran Lee Stetson on Thursday made whats called an open plea, in which a defendant pleads no contest to all charges in the hope the court sentences them to lesser punishment than whats sought by the prosecution.

Kern Valley High teacher accused of sex crimes against minor

He faces up to 12 years in prison, District Attorneys Office spokeswoman Daniela Gonzaga said. Sentencing is set for May 13.

California Highway Patrol investigators say Stetson ran a four-way stop in a Jeep Liberty on May 28 at the intersection of Airport Drive and Petrol Road. The SUV hit a motorcycle, throwing its rider, Glenn Patterson, 62. Patterson died June 1 at Kern Medical.

Stetson was linked to the crash and arrested June 15, officers said.

At an earlier hearing, prosecutor Brandon Stallings told the court Stetson had been convicted in 2010 for a homicide that occurred in Washington. Stetson said he served 10 years and nine months in prison in that case, the details of which were not discussed in court.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
Man raps about raping kids and killing grandma, Arkansas cops say. He pleads not guilty

An Arkansas man accused of putting threatening lyrics in his rap music has pleaded not guilty, stating that the violence is part of his persona as a musician, authorities said.

The 20-year-old Bentonville resident was arrested Nov. 2 on a charge of first-degree terroristic threatening, according to court records. Authorities later added a charge of threatening a bombing, records show.

He pleaded not guilty April 9 to threat of bombing related to his lyrics, according to court records.

McClatchy News reached out to the mans attorney for comment April 12 but did not receive an immediate response.

The FBI, acting on an anonymous tip, reviewed nine rap music videos uploaded by the Bentonville man, according to a probable cause document.

Statements and threats within the videos included racial statements about specific groups of people and killing them, bombing churches associated with a specific race, killing kids, raping children, bringing his gun to school and killing people of a specific ethnic group, shooting up his school because he was bullied, details of a plan about committing a school shooting, killing his grandmother, bombing a specific public event, killing the president and bombing the senate, the affidavit said.

The FBI searched the mans home and found no weapons or explosives, officials said.

The man told authorities the lyrics were part of his rap character or persona, and that his music was meant to be funny, according to the affidavit.

He told the FBI he does not believe the statements he makes in his songs, and had no intentions of committing any of the actions referenced in his lyrics, records show.

Why First Amendment protections may not apply

The tension here is public safety and freedom of expression, Danielle Weatherby, a law professor at the University of Arkansas who specializes in the First Amendment, told KNWA.

Hate speech is protected speech in the U.S., with exceptions, including when it constitutes true threats of violence against individuals.

Speech that crosses a boundary from expression to threats of violence is a place where the First Amendment does not protect freedom of expression,  Weatherby told KNWA.

In this day and age where were dealing with school shootings and massacres of a major scale, we have to take this kind of speech seriously, she told the station.

Cops smear rape survivor, share assault details after she criticizes NYPD, suit says

After School Satan Club for elementary kids is met with hostility, lawsuit says

Mom complains about school drop-off line on Facebook and school retaliates, lawsuit says
(PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo.)  A Pueblo man has been sentenced to 70 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) for the 2021 kidnapping and murder of a man whose body was found in a remote area of eastern Pueblo County.

33-year-old Nicholas Tumblin was sentenced on Thursday, April 11, after he pled guilty to Second Degree Murder and First Degree Kidnapping in the homicide of Raymond Ray Jr., whose body was discovered Aug. 17, 2021. Ray was reported missing in July 2021 by family, and his body was found by someone working in an area near 62nd Lane in eastern Pueblo County a month later.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Suspect of two homicides arrested by PCSO

Tumblin was already in custody on separate murder charges when he was charged in the death of Ray, and was awaiting trial in the September 2021 shooting death of 36-year-old Eric Trujillo. Tumblin was taken into custody in October 2021 by U.S. Marshals in New Mexico in the Trujillo murder.

Courtesy: Pueblo County Sheriffs Office

After his guilty plea in the murder of Ray, Tumblin was sentenced to 44 years for Rays murder and an additional 16 years for his kidnapping, as well as another 10 years for a contraband possession charge he picked up while incarcerated in the Pueblo County Jail. Tumblin also received six years in the CDOC after pleading guilty to manslaughter in the death of Trujillo.

The six-year sentence will run concurrent to the 70-year sentence, PCSO said.

Our detectives did a great job on this case and although it has taken more than two and a half years to get to this day, we hope this sentence offers a measure of justice to the victims family and our community, said Pueblo County Sheriff David J. Lucero. I commend the detectives for the work they did and for staying persistent and dedicated to bringing this case to closure.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
Man steals his own SUV from auto shop at gunpoint: Police

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  A St. Louis County man is accused of stealing his own SUV from an auto repair shop without paying for the work completed.

According to the St. Ann Police Departments probable cause statement, the robbery took place on April 8 in the parking lot of a QuikTrip on St. Charles Rock Road near North Lindbergh Boulevard.

Police claim Daniel Strickland (age not provided) dropped off his 2017 Dodge Durango at an auto shop. He returned to pick up the vehicle but wanted to take the SUV on a test drive before paying the remaining balance.

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A shop employee agreed and took the Durango for a test drive, with Strickland in the passenger seat. Police claim Strickland asked if they could pull into the QuikTrip to get gas.

When the repair shop employee pulled into the parking lot, Strickland allegedly took out a pistol and demanded he exit the SUV. The victim complied and Strickland drove away.

The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged Strickland with first-degree robbery and armed criminal action. He remains jailed on a $500,000 cash-only bond. Strickland is due in court next week for a bond reduction hearing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Man wounded in exchange of gunfire jailed in Georgetown County, deputies say

GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  A man is in custody after being treated for gunshot wounds following an exchange of gunfire early Friday morning in the Plantersville community, authorities said.

Savion Grimmage of Jackson Village Road was arrested after he was treated at Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital, according to Sheriff Carter Weavers office. He is being held at the Georgetown County Detention Center pending charges against him.

Investigators said Grimmage was hit in the hand and back by shotgun fire while riding away from the scene of a confrontation on Exodus Drive. It happened shortly after 12:30 a.m.

Deputies found evidence of gunshots fired into a house and vehicle and said a resident returned fire, hitting Grimmage, whose wounds were not believed to be life-threatening.

The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information should call 843-546-5102.

* * *

Dennis Bright is a Digital Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
Mansfield school district employees and board members were aware for months that Place 2 candidate Angel Hidalgo was possibly ineligible to run for the seat, according to texts and emails obtained by the Star-Telegram through a records request.

Hidalgo, a Spanish instructor at Tarrant County College, is running against Jandel Crutchfield, an associate professor of social work at UT Arlington.

The election is May 4. Early voting starts April 22.

Residents and parents have expressed concerns that Hidalgo does not live in the district and is not qualified to run because he has not been registered at the same voting address for over six months  the duration of time required to run for school board. The district said in a statement Friday that it is still reviewing his eligibility.

Last week the district said it was unable to determine Hidalgos eligibility but could not remove him from the ballot because the Feb. 23 deadline to do so had passed. The district said in the same statement that Crutchfield was eligible to run.

Records obtained by the Star-Telegram show there was doubt about Hidalgos eligibility before that date.

Hidalgo has not responded to multiple requests for comment.

In a text exchange on Feb. 7 with school board member Desiree Thomas, board president Courtney Lackey Wilson said it appeared Hidalgo was not registered to vote in Tarrant County.

Voter registration records reviewed by the Star-Telegram show that Hidalgo was registered to vote in Dallas County until Feb. 25, when he changed his voting address to one in Tarrant County.

But questions about whether to leave Hidalgo off the ballot swirled well past the February deadline to remove him.

On March 19, a Tarrant County elections administration worker asked the district in an email if it had decided whether to keep Hidalgo on the ballot. Alicia Heimbigner, coordinator of school board services, told the elections office that the district would like to leave Hidalgo on the ballot.

That same day, Hidalgo informed district attorney Mike Leasor in an email that a campaign staffer had noticed Hidalgo had not registered to vote at his Arlington address after he moved from Dallas County in September 2022. That prompted him to update his address, Hidalgo told Leasor.

On March 23, Leasor emailed Troy Harvard, Tarrant County assistant elections administrator, because Hidalgo did not appear on the sample ballot. Harvard replied that the ballot had been updated and Hidalgo was placed on it. He said Hidalgo was left off because of an oversight issue.

Harvard could not be immediately reached for comment.

The initial records request was filed by Clayton Waters, who has two children in the district and whose wife used to work in the district. The Star-Telegram filed its request after hearing from Waters about his request.

Waters told the Star-Telegram in an interview Friday that he submitted the request because he wanted transparency about who was pulling the strings and who would shape his childrens education.
Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene laid into Speaker of the House Mike Johnson on Friday, criticising his support for a legislative package that includes funding for Ukraine and accusing him of bothering Donald Trump by meeting with him.

Speaking with Steve Bannon on his show War Room, Ms Greene said that Mr Johnson supporting a US spending bill that would send funding to Ukraine made her stomach flip over.

The American people are the ones writing the cheque and I absolutely hate everybody here doing this, Ms Greene said. I mean I seriously hate them for doing this for the American people and paying for the murder and slaughter of the people in Ukraine.

Ms Greene, a member of the far-right faction of the House of Representatives, is a vocal opposer of sending any funding to Ukraine. Last month, when the House passed a spending bill  in part to keep the government from shutting down  she filed a motion to vacate Mr Johnson.

The Georgia representative downplayed the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, saying that the Russian president Vladimir Putin has not said he will invade other parts of Europe and therefore the US should not get involved.

Vladimir Putin has not said he wants to go march across Europe and take Europe and the reality is Ukraine is not even a Nato member nation, Ms Greene added.

Her views echo that of her close ally, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. He has pushed for a more isolationist foreign policy stance and said he would negotiate a deal to end the Ukraine war, even if it means giving Russia a portion of land.

But Ms Greene and Mr Trumps stance on Ukraine is unpopular among the majority of Congress and deviates from Mr Johnsons goal of getting the funding package passed.

"I absolutely hate everybody here who is doing this ... Vladimir Putin has not said he wants to go march across Europe and take Europe" -- Marge on members of Congress who support Ukraine aid pic.twitter.com/WfFXXBjJrC  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 12, 2024

Mr Johnson is meeting with Mr Trump on Friday to make an election integrity announcement but the mens differing opinions of Ukraine may come up during questions.

When asked what advice she had for Mr Trump ahead of the meeting with Mr Johnson, Ms Greene said the former president should be focusing on his campaign and his upcoming criminal trials  the first of which will begin on Monday.

He doesnt need to be worrying about what Mike Johnson is trying to talk him into, Ms Greene said.

The Georgia representative accused Mr Johnson of trying to saddle up to the former president because hes scared of a motion to vacate.

Ms Greene previously said her motion to vacate was just a warning to Mr Johnson for now. But tensions between Mr Johnson and the far-right faction have been heating up and they could try to remove him.

Kevin McCarthy found himself in a similar situation last year when Florida representative Matt Gaetz successfully invoked the motion to vacate.

Should the motion move to a vote, several Democrats said they would oppose the motion to save Mr Johnson but only if Mr Johnson moves forward with Ukraine aid.

They know I mean exactly every single word I say and Im not full of s*** just like Mike Johnson is and Im actually going to follow through with action instead of lie to people on television, Ms Greene said.
Garabagh, which has been under Armenian occupation for more than 30 years, has been a source of private business not only for ordinary Armenian residents, but also for Armenian millionaires. Khankendi is one of the cities that has become a private recreation center for Armenians. The large number of weapons and ammunition found there so far makes it clear once again what the main goal was.

Footage of the cognac factory of Armenian oligarchs in the city of Khankendi has circulated. The footage that was shown on the Azerbaijani State television channel AzTV program called "Our word is our signature!" spilled the bean about the real nature of the Armenian occupation and building a huge arsenal in the town.

Obviously, one of the shareholders of the cognac factory was Arayik Harutyunyan, the former so-called "president" of the separatists, who is currently imprisoned in Baku. Armenians, using the natural benefits of Azerbaijan, produced various products, including cognac, and presented it to the world as their brand.

In addition, Azerbaijani lands, especially Khankendi, were illegally exploited as a recreation camp for Armenian millionaires. Such speculators who built themselves villas and sold the country's natural resources abroad and got rich are paying the price of their crimes today.

It is significant to note that the leader of the nationalist party "Dashnaktsutyun" in Garabagh, the former so-called "chairman of parliament" of the separatists David Ishkhanyan, the former so-called "presidents" of the separatists Arayik Harutyunyan, Bako Sahakyan and Arkady Ghukasyan, Davit Manukyan, former so-called "minister of foreign affairs" of the separatist regime in Garabagh, David Babayan, Levi Mnatsakanyan and finally the so-called "minister of state" of the separatist regime in Garabagh, a multi-millionaire in the Russian Federation, Ruben Vardanyan, were detained by the State Security Service of Azerbaijan and taken to Baku.




NAIROBI, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The National Treasury and Economic Planning of Kenya, in an analysis released Friday, detailed strategies to manage the country's public debt sustainably, despite the current economic challenges.

The East African nation's public debt stood at 11.3 trillion shillings (about 86.9 billion U.S. dollars) at the end of March, with 52 percent of it being external, according to the National Treasury.

"Nominal debt as a percentage of gross domestic product increased to 70.8 percent in June 2023 due to the depreciation of Kenyan shillings against major currencies and new borrowing to finance the fiscal deficit," the National Treasury said in the report released in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

It noted that the country's debt-carrying capacity has remained medium since March 2021, a downward revision from strong, reflecting the impact of COVID-19 on the global and domestic economies.

The National Treasury observed that Kenya will continue to optimize the use of concessional funding, lengthen the maturity profile of public debt through the issuance of medium- to long-dated bonds, and expand the domestic debt market to reduce the cost of public debt and borrowing.

It said that Kenya's government will reduce borrowing to limit the rate of accumulation of public debt and make it sustainable. 
Marjorie Taylor Greene doesn't want to help Ukraine. That's exactly what Russia wants.

Can America secure our southern border to stem an immigration crisis while also helping Ukraine fight off a prolonged invasion from Russia?

There are some very vocal Republicans in Congress who say no. They want to focus only on the border, while watching Russia consume Ukraine.

That's just how Russia wants it.

Those Republicans, like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, have played right into Russia's plan to sow division in our country by pitting the border against Ukraine.

She has repeatedly threatened to unseat Mike Johnson, the rookie Republican speaker of the House from Louisiana, as he tries to push forward more military aid for Ukraine that has significant bipartisan support.

Vladimir Putin, Russia's president, must find all this congressional chaos so gratifying.

Russian propaganda has reached American leadership

House Speaker Mike Johnson talks with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., in Congress on April 11, 2024.

We're watching the Russian information war playbook roll out on social media platforms and into the halls of Congress.

That's not just me talking.

Rep. Michael McCaul, the Texas Republican who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Puck in an interview last week that "Russian propaganda has made its way into the United States, unfortunately, and it's infected a good chunk of my party's base."

Rep. Michael Turner, the Ohio Republican who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, agreed with McCaul during a CNN interview Sunday: "We see, directly coming from Russia, attempts to mask communications that are anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia messages  some of which we even hear being uttered on the House floor."

McCaul and Turner didn't name names. They didn't have to. Turn on any cable news network. You'll see who they were talking about.

American politics made it easy for disinformation to take hold

Kyle Walter noticed a spike in mid-January in Russian messaging about America's southern border on platforms like Telegram and VK.

Walter, who works for Logically, a tech firm that analyzes disinformation, said those networks zeroed in on a dispute between Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who erected barriers with razor wire along the border, and the Biden administration, which said that made it difficult for Border Patrol agents to do their jobs.

"These Russian channels lit up overnight and started talking about the potential for Texas to secede from the union for the potential for a civil war," Walter said.

Nothing like a little civil war to distract us all from Ukraine's plight.

That Russian-language messaging then moved over as English-language posts on Facebook and X, with the same sentence structures and rhetoric. Those accounts signal-boosted each other with reposts and engagement.

Who will be Trump's VP? Trump asks supporters to help pick his running mate. He really just wants their money.

X, formerly known as Twitter, appears to be the favorite forum for all that, Walter said, because that platform has pulled back from content moderation meant to regulate disinformation.

"Russian disinformation has pervaded every level of American society at this point," he said. "It's not surprising to see people at very high levels of the government sharing similar messaging to Russia messaging on this topic just because it's become so ingrained in our regular discourse."

Marjorie Taylor Greene's letter reads as if it were ripped out of Putin's playbook

U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) speaks to reporters outside of the U.S. Capitol Building after a vote on a funding bill that would avert a government shutdown on March 22, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Greene took the first legislative steps to oust Johnson as speaker last month and upped the ante in a five-page letter to House colleagues Tuesday. Page 2 included an accusation that a recent spending bill pushed by Johnson "did nothing to stop Biden's deadly border invasion."

Page 3 said Republicans "could have at least secured the border," an odd claim since former President Donald Trump's Republican allies in Congress like Johnson and Greene in February helped blow up a bipartisan Senate deal to do just that.

She closed with a pair of paragraphs that sounded like dictation she took from Putin, linking the border and immigration directly to the pending $60 billion in aid to Ukraine that has been in limbo since the Senate approved it in February.

Biden and Trump have issues: But Biden has the cash to fix his problems.

"The American people disagree  they believe our border is the only border worth fighting a war over," Greene wrote.

I wonder if that sounded more credible in the original Russian?

Are Americans still concerned about the war in Ukraine?

Public sentiment on this is not as clear-cut as Greene cast it. This can be ripe for the Russians to sow division because Americans are already divided about it along partisan political lines.

Last month, the State Department reported that we sent more than $47 billion in military assistance to Ukraine from 2014 to 2022 to deal with Russia's annexation of Crimea and $44.2 billion since the full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022.

The Defense Department has carefully spelled out how much of that money actually goes to American contractors, impacting jobs and the economy here.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) holds a press conference with House Republican leadership on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023 in Washington.

In an AP/NORC poll released two years after the Russian invasion, 60% of Americans said our spending on aid for Ukraine was "about right" or "too little," while 37% called it "too much."

Broken out by party, 55% of Republicans said we're spending too much; 38% of Democrats said the spending was about right and 44% said it was too little.

The poll also found that 58% of Democrats considered providing aide to Ukraine very important and 30% said it's somewhat important, while 24% of Republicans saw that as very important and 38% called it somewhat important.

In a February Pew Research Center survey, 3 out of 4 Americans found the war in Ukraine to be important to U.S. interests. Again, there was a Democratic-Republican split of 81% to 69% feeling that way.

So plenty of Americans feel concern and even an obligation about Ukraine.

Russia was there in 2016 and never left

Some of you will read this and cry "Russia, Russia, Russia," Trump's mocking refrain for the investigations into that country's interference in our 2016 presidential election.

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.

It's worth a reminder that a Senate Intelligence Committee investigation  conducted during Trump's lone term as president while Republicans controlled the Senate  released a report in 2019 that said Russian-directed social media was used in the 2016 election "as part of a broader, sophisticated, and ongoing information warfare campaign designed to sow discord in American politics and society."

Richard Burr, the North Carolina Republican who chaired that committee, warned that "Russia is waging an information warfare campaign against the U.S. that didnt start and didnt end with the 2016 election."

He was right. It's still at it. Russia has plenty of motivation to again meddle in our presidential election.

President Joe Biden, understanding the threats posed by Russia, wants to help Ukraine win the war. Trump's plan for peace between the two countries, according to The Washington Post, is to force Ukraine to forever surrender territory to Russia.

Greene met with Johnson on Wednesday and came away with no deal. The House speaker predicted "chaos" if she tries to oust him.

The Russians can only hope she sticks to their playbook.

Follow USA TODAY elections columnist Chris Brennan on X, formerly known as Twitter: @ByChrisBrennan

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump Republicans want to end aid to Ukraine, just like Putin wants
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene doesnt think Russias military incursion into Ukraine is a threat to the rest of Europe, and she wishes everyone would shut up about it.

This whole thing is the most repulsive, disgusting thing happening, and the American people are the ones writing the check, the far-right Georgia congresswoman said Friday in an interview on Steve Bannons War Room program. Vladimir Putin has not said he wants to go march across Europe and take Europe, and the reality is Ukraine is not even a NATO member nation.

"I absolutely hate everybody here who is doing this ... Vladimir Putin has not said he wants to go march across Europe and take Europe" -- Marge on members of Congress who support Ukraine aid pic.twitter.com/WfFXXBjJrC  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 12, 2024

Its quite a bold claim to make, considering that European countries in addition to Ukraine have made no secret that they fear Russia. For example, Germany, Poland, and France are discussing the revival of a decades-old alliance to strengthen their cooperation because of Russia. Sweden just joined NATO last month, following neighbor Finlands accession to the alliance last year, over concerns Russia might try to invade them next.

So, is Greene simply echoing Russian talking points? Several of her Republican colleagues in Congress have warned that Russian propaganda is influencing their constituents and politicians like Greene, following revelations last week of a vast Russian-backed corruption network in Europe. Belgium is even investigating Russian interference in the European Parliaments upcoming elections.

Former Colorado Representative Ken Buck even came up with a derisive nickname for Greene due to her pro-Russia stance.

Moscow Marjorie is focused now on this Ukraine issue and getting her talking points from the Kremlin and making sure that she is popular, and she is getting a lot of coverage, he said in an interview on CNN Monday.

Greene has turned her guns on Speaker Mike Johnson in recent weeks due to her opposition to any aid for Ukraine in its fight against Russia, with Republicans bitterly divided over the issue. The fight could cost Mike Johnson his speakership, which is held together by a razor-thin Republican margin in the House. Greene even put forth a motion to oust him last month, although it has not yet been brought for a vote.
Marylands congressional delegation introduced a bill in both the House and Senate on Thursday to ensure that federal funds will cover the full cost of replacing the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

The legislation would protect Maryland taxpayers from bearing a 10% share of the cost of reconstructing the bridge, which was struck by a cargo ship last month and collapsed into the Patapsco River, killing six construction workers.

Democratic President Joe Biden has promised that the federal government will cover the entire bill, with his administration approving an initial $60 million request from the state and access to a $1 billion emergency relief fund.

Lawmakers stressed that the loss of the bridge, which has halted much of the traffic at one of the East Coasts busiest ports, is not just a local but a national catastrophe.

The sudden collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge was a human tragedy and an economic tragedy  for Maryland and the nation, Sen. Ben Cardin said in a statement. The federal government is an essential partner in this gargantuan task of reopening the Port of Baltimore shipping channel and replacing the bridge with one built for modern-day commerce and travel needs.

Crews have been clearing tons of debris and opening temporary shipping channels, hoping to reopen normal port traffic by the end of May. To date, divers have recovered the bodies of three of the six workers who were killed in the bridge collapse.

Named the Baltimore Bridge Response Invests and Delivers Global Economic, or BRIDGE, Relief Act, the bill has the support of the delegations lone Republican, U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, despite his membership in the far-right Freedom Caucus which has called for restrictions on the federal funds.

The caucus in a statement last week said officials should seek maximum liability from shipping companies before seeking public funds, a notion rejected by Cardin and others who said litigation could take years and should not delay the rebuilding of the bridge.

But Harris told reporters Thursday that there is consensus in Congress to fund the rebuild even if that means the federal government must front the money before seeking funds from foreign shipping companies who may be liable.

Harris, a Republican representing the 1st Congressional District, said during a media conference call that there is broad agreement the federal government should front the money, but that every effort should be made to recoup this money from those who I believe will be held liable for the damage done.

The Freedom Caucus statement specified that the government should seek maximum liability from the shipping companies upfront.

But Harris, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, said itll take years to recoup any money, and that the bridge project must stay on track.

Harris said holding companies liable is important, but that with very few exceptions I think the House will agree and the Congress will agree that the federal government can keep the project moving by assuring the funds are available in the meantime.

Harris district includes the Eastern Shore, Harford County and part of Baltimore County.

The legislation says that in accordance with federal regulations, any compensation for damages or insurance proceeds recovered by the state should go toward the reconstruction of the bridge.

The bill was introduced two days after the state delegation and Gov. Wes Moore took to the U.S. Capitol to urge support for the funding.

Moore, a Democrat, expressed gratitude in a statement on Thursday to the delegation and our federal allies in this hour of national importance.

We must continue to come together, across party lines and all levels of government, he said, to reopen the Port of Baltimore and rebuild the bridge as fast as possible.

______

(Baltimore Sun reporter Jeff Barker contributed to this article.)

______
Members of Marylands congressional delegation introduced a bill Thursday that would require the federal government to cover the entire cost of repairing the Baltimore bridge that collapsed after a ship hit it last month.

The legislation was introduced by Democratic Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and all eight Maryland House members: Kweisi Mfume (D), Andy Harris (R), Steny Hoyer (D), Dutch Ruppersberger (D), John Sarbanes (D), Jamie Raskin (D), David Trone (D) and Glenn Ivey (D).

In a statement, Van Hollen said, Team Maryland is putting forward this bipartisan legislation to ensure the federal government covers the full cost of rebuilding the bridge as safely and quickly as possible  and that federal taxpayers benefit from any monies recovered from those found responsible.

The legislation, titled the Baltimore Bridge Response Invests and Delivers Global Economic Relief Act, would amend the federal cost-share requirement for the Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief Program for Disaster-Damaged Highways and Bridges.

It would ensure that the federal government covers 100 percent of the costs associated to rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore after it collapsed when a cargo ship hit it in late March.

The federal government typically picks up 90 percent of the costs while the state pays the remaining 10 percent when replacing disaster-damaged highways and bridges, but exceptions have been made in other emergency scenarios, Cardin said at a press conference this week.

The shipping vessel, the Dali, lost power while leaving Baltimore Harbor and slammed into the bridge. Since then, the Baltimore port has been closed, and traffic has been diverted to temporary channels as crews begin to pull out debris.

Six out of the eight construction workers on the bridge that night were killed in the collapse. The Coast Guard has begun its recovery efforts for three bodies still missing.

The sudden collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge was a human tragedy and an economic tragedy  for Maryland and the nation. As we continue to mourn the loss of life and this icon of our skyline, we can simultaneously begin work to heal the wounds created by this disaster, Cardin said in a statement Thursday.

President Biden visited the bridge last week and said he expects to have the Baltimore Port reopened by the end of May.

Its unclear how much a new bridge would cost, but estimates are into the billions of dollars.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Mass evacuation underway in city as floods worsen in Russia and Kazakhstan

A mass evacuation is underway in the Russian city of Orenburg, as severe flooding tears through parts of the country and northern Kazakhstan.

A mass evacuation is underway, the citys mayor Sergei Salmin said on Telegram, instructing residents in multiple areas of the city to take your documents, medicines, and basic necessities with you and leave home immediately. The mayor described the flooding situation as extremely dangerous and urged locals not to waste time.

Residents in at least eight areas or streets in the region have been asked to evacuate, according to an announcement from the Orenburg government. The region is home to nearly 2 million people, but it is unclear how many have been asked to leave their homes.

Floods began after Europes third-longest river, the Ural, was swelled by snow melt, bursting its banks and causing a deluge in dozens of towns and cities along the border.

The river flows from Russias Ural Mountains through Kazakhstan to the Caspian Sea, and has caused emergency responses in both countries.

All services of the city and the region are operating in emergency mode. We are ready to help residents with moving out of flooded areas and placing them in safe conditions, the Orenburg government said, adding that temporary accommodation facilities are available.

So far in the wider region, more than 10,000 people have been relocated from their homes, including 2,094 children.

On Friday, the water level in the Ural River surpassed 37 feet (11.47 meters), according to city officials. The First Deputy Head of Orenburg Alexey Kudinov said peak flooding is expected in Orenburg on Friday, after which a stable condition is expected.

Kazakhstans President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said on Thursday the flooding might be the biggest disaster in terms of its scale and impact in more than 80 years.

The wider Orenburg region is home to nearly 2 million people. - Reuters TV

A man tows an inflatable boat holding his belongings along a flooded street in the Orenburg region. - Maxim Shemetov/Reuters

The Kremlin had previously said that Russian President Vladimir Putin would receive reports from the governors of the three seriously affected regions: Orenburg, Kurgan and Tyumen.

Residents have repeatedly called on the president for assistance. Video posts on social media showed hundreds of protesters gathering outside the city hall in Orsk, Orenburg, chanting Shame! Shame! and Putin, help! Other footage showed demonstrators accusing the state of doing nothing and criticizing the citys mayor, Vasily Kozupitsa.

We feed emergency ministry workers with pies and dumplings and bring them thermoses Kozupitsa cannot even provide for emergency workers. Shame! one woman could be heard saying.

Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of the late Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny, also criticized the Kremlin.

The authorities in our country never seem to be prepared for anything. In winter, they are unprepared for frost and snowstorms, in summer - for fires, and in spring - for floods, she wrote Tuesday on X.

CNNs Anna Chernova, Christian Edwards and Caitlin Danaher contributed reporting

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Ill give you the truth why Im not speaker, Kevin McCarthy told a crowd assembled at Georgetown University this past Tuesday night. Its because one person, a member of Congress, wanted me to stop an ethics complaint because he slept with a 17-year-old

Cue the record scratch.

In a normal world, that shocking allegationleveled by a former Speaker of the House against a current member of the House, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL)would have dominated news coverage for weeks. Instead, it barely elicited a yawn.

McCarthy Publicly Blasts Gaetz When Asked About His Downfall as Speaker

To be sure, McCarthy later added, Did he do it or not? I dont know. What is more, the Department of Justice dropped their investigation of Gaetz over a year ago, and Gaetz flatly denies the claims. On the other hand, the House Ethics Committee is still investigating, Gaetzs close friend pleaded guilty to sex trafficking a minor, and McCarthys words seem to suggest he hasnt ruled out the possibility its true.

Regardless, one would think McCarthys comments would have made a bigger splash. But we live in a post-Trump world, and particularly among the MAGA set, it takes a whole lot more than allegations like these to spark widespread furor.

Our outrage receptors have been burned out. The GOP has, in the words of the late Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, defined decency down, a phenomenon that aids any Republican caught up in a scandal.

Since his election to the presidency, Trump has changed the culture of the GOP, normalizing bad behavior. He has also served as a magnet, attracting new scoundrels who might previously have thought politics was boring, or that they had too much baggage to run for political office.

In this regard, Gaetzs alleged behavior makes him something of a microcosm of the Trump-era Republican Party. A recent profile in The Atlantic provides plenty of examples of this.

First, unlike the old-school family values conservatism, Gaetz lets his freak flag fly, having allegedly shown his House colleagues nude pictures of his sexual conquests on the House floor, and having allegedly participated in a Points Game in the Florida legislature, where points were awarded based on which women a member slept with (married fellow members were worth more than lobbyists, for example).

This is no longer your fathers Republican Party; the MAGA GOP is full of figures who are alleged to have engaged in some sordid stuff. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) has a long list of cuckoo ravings that would be disqualifying for most pre-Trump Republicans. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) was caught on camera fondling her date at a Beetlejuice production. I could go on.

Anti-Abortion Voters Should Have Dumped Trump When They Had the Chance

Second, like many of his MAGA colleagues, Gaetz puts a high premium on garnering attention, via cable news hits and social media clicks. If you arent making news, Gaetz once famously declared, you arent governing.

He may be one of the more thirsty members, but he is hardly alone. Again, though, what makes Gaetz interesting is not how he resembles the rest of the GOP, but in the ways that he differs from his colleagues.

Gaetz is one of the few people who, like Trump, seems to have the Houdini-esque get-out-of-jail-free magic. Its impossible to know why the rules dont seem to apply to him, but I have theories.

Like Trump (the son of a millionaire, who spent decades learning how to manipulate the media), Gaetz has been at this game for a long time. Back in high school, as The Atlantic notes, Gaetz was a talented debater, having won a statewide competition in Florida, during his senior year. Gaetzs father is an incredibly wealthy former president of the Florida state senate, and Baby Gaetz (as Matt was once called) learned at his knee.

Now, you might be thinking that other Republicans tend to fail forward while getting away with outlandish behavior. And, to some degree, this is true.

But Boebert barely survived her last election, and is no shoo-in for reelection this time around. And although MTG represents a safe, deep-red district that grants her a certain immunity, it seems likely that she has reached her peak (its hard to imagine that she could parlay her House seat into statewide or national office, for example).

Thats not true of Gaetz. Indeed, as The Atlantic profile suggests, he seems likely poised to run for Florida governor, andif he doeswould likely be perceived as the frontrunner.

The Last Time I Spoke With O.J. Simpson

The comparison with MTG also invites a discussion about their respective efforts to influence House leadership. In 2023, Greene supported McCarthy, while Gaetz led the successful charge to oust him. As I noted at the time, Gaetz was the big winner of the House Speakership battle.

Conversely, Greene is currently embroiled in her own mutiny as she threatens to remove Speaker Mike Johnson from his position. Who knows where this will end, but it seems doubtful that Greenes efforts will be as effective as Gaetzs.

Advantage: Baby Gaetz.

A career that a decade ago would have been brief punchline material for late night hosts (before expulsion, and possible incarceration) is now ascendant. Thus far in the MAGA GOP for Gaetz, the skys the limit.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Mayor Adams responds to criticism of new meeting form for elected officials

NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  Mayor Eric Adams responded on Friday to criticism of his new communications directive between leaders of city agencies and elected officials.

The Adams administration recently set up a webpage with a form for elected officials to request meetings with agency commissioners or their executive teams, Politico reported on Tuesday.

Mayor Eric Adams talks NYCFC Stadium approved in Willets Point

The form was met with some opposition, particularly from City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, who told lawmakers to ignore the form. Speaker Adams also said City Hall provided no official communication on the new communications initiative before it launched, the New York Post reported.

Adams told PIX11 the form should reduce redundancy and allow elected officials with similar concerns to meet with an agency head in a group setting.

You dont just walk into a council persons office, there is a process. You dont just walk into a doctors office, theres a process to meet with them, Adams said. Ive been using this form for 10 years. When people stop me on the street and say Mayor I want to meet with you, I give them a link, they fill it out, we analyze it and make sure to coordinate a meeting within a two-week period of time.

The mayor later said that he is not at odds with Speaker Adams. He also explained why the new form had not yet been formally announced.

Once we train our internal team, then we will go to all the elected [officials]. This is not a City Council initiative, this is for all of our elected officials, so I can produce a product for them as well, Adams said.

Charline Charles is a digital journalist from Brooklyn who has covered local news along with culture and arts in the New York City area since 2019. She joined PIX11 News in 2022. See more of her work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Media: EU to consider additional restrictions on Ukrainian carriers in Poland

The European Commission is reportedly considering new restrictions on Ukrainian carriers transporting goods through Poland, Polish media outlet RMF24 reported on April 12, citing its undisclosed sources.

Polish carriers have been complaining that since the EU liberalized transit rules for Ukraine, Ukrainian truckers have been driving them out of business. This led to a blockade at the Polish-Ukrainian border between November 2023 and January 2024.

Some Polish truckers have also joined the renewed blockade by Polish farmers that has been ongoing since February. The disputes have led to deteriorating relations between Kyiv and Warsaw.

The European Commission is willing to help transport companies from Poland's Lublin and Subcarpathian regions, as Polish carriers have repeatedly complained about their Ukrainian competitors, RMF24's article read.

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Apart from additional checks, GPS devices could be installed on the vehicles, allowing tracking of their destination in Poland and ensuring compliance with their declarations, according to RMF24's sources.

As of now, the European Commission does not plan to restore the permit obligations for Ukrainian transport companies, which is one of the demands of Polish protestors, RMF24 said.

The European Union's Road Transport Policy Department is currently working on potential solutions for the matter, while the working group in the EU Council will be established in the coming weeks, according to the outlet.

Blockades on the border have caused billions in lost revenue. Trucker protests led to a shortfall of Hr 9.2 billion, or $233 million, in customs revenues in just over a month, according to Ukraine's Economy Ministry.

Read also: Sikorski: We want to help Ukraine, but you must decide how long you are ready to go on

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(Bloomberg) -- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is embarking on a charm offensive with Beijing as she looks to shield trade and economic ties after pulling Italy out of Chinas controversial global investment initiative last year.

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Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani will meet Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Verona, Italy, on Friday to kick off an entrepreneurial dialog, and Meloni will travel to China in the coming months, according to a person familiar with the plans who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The outreach from Rome comes after the European Union has launched a massive effort to de-risk from China to better protect supply lines and ensure access to critical materials and technology, particularly after Beijing has shown support for Moscow in its war against Ukraine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will travel to China over the weekend to discuss trade and Ukraine.

The strengthening of ties with Beijing is part of a new push for Italys diplomacy that Edmondo Cirielli, the deputy foreign affairs minister, has described as pragmatic but not cynical. The approach hinges on a strong commitment to NATO and the transatlantic partnership while fostering good relations with so-called systemic adversaries, such as Beijing, Tehran, and even Moscow.

Italy was the sole Group of Seven nation to sign onto Chinese President Xi Jinpings Belt and Road Initiative  a global infrastructure pact aimed at expanding Beijings influence primarily in Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe. The move drew considerable ire from the US and its allies.

In exiting the BRI, Rome, which holds the G-7 presidency this year, wanted to avoid provoking any type of backlash from China, which is a key export market. Even as it prepared to publicly exit the pact, Italy paid close attention to how it projected this message to the world, avoiding an overt departure from the initiative.

Italys main export to China is pharmaceutical products, which amounted to 4.4 billion ($4.7 billion) last year, almost a fifth of the 19 billion in total exports. China exported 46.8 billion to Italy.

We want to launch a new phase in the relationship between Italy and China and invest in a bilateral partnership, Tajani said on Thursday.

The move may be a political win for Meloni if she manages to retain trade ties with China that are important for the business community, while also having kept a promise to her party, the Brothers of Italy, which wanted Rome to quit the BRI, which is also referred to as the Silk Way.

Melonis government currently enjoys one of the biggest majorities in parliament in recent times and upcoming European elections in June could see her play a pivotal role in determining the balance of power in Brussels.

The government has kept its electoral promise to exit the Silk Road because it was clear to everyone that the agreement was not in Italys favor, Giangiacomo Calovini, a member of parliament for Melonis party on the foreign affairs committee, said in an interview. In the current, extremely volatile situation, there is nothing bad in keeping an open dialog with Beijing in hopes it strengthens trade with a market as important as Chinas, he said.

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(NewsNation)  Three mariners stranded on an island in the Pacific Ocean were saved after making a HELP sign made from leaves from palm trees that was seen by a U.S. Navy aircraft.

The mariners had been on Pikelot Atoll, which is part of the Federated States of Micronesia, for more than a week before being rescued by the Coast Guard and Navy, a news release said.

According to the release, the mariners, all men in their 40s, began their trip in a small, 20-foot open skiff with an outboard motor from Polowat Atoll on Easter Sunday.

Then, on Saturday, Joint Rescue Sub-Center Guam received a distress call from one of the mens relatives who said her three uncles had not returned from Pikelot Atoll.

Crews from the JRSC Guam coordinated a multifaceted search and rescue operation, the Coast Guard said. While there were challenges at first when mobilizing air assets because of availability, operational commitments and weather conditions, they were able to engage a U.S. Navy P-8 aircraft crew from Kadena Air Force Base in Japan.

Suspect charged in dismembered body found in BK: NYPD

That aircraft identified the mariners on April 7.

In a remarkable testament to their will to be found, the mariners spelled out HELP on the beach using palm leaves, a crucial factor in their discovery. This act of ingenuity was pivotal in guiding rescue efforts directly to their location, Lt. Chelsea Garcia, the search and rescue mission coordinator on the day they were located, said in a statement.

Aircraft crew members sent survival packages down to the mariners, while the U.S. Coast Guard ship Oliver Henry was rerouted to Pikelot to rescue them.

On Monday, a U.S. Coast Guard HC-130J Hercules aircraft flew over the area and relocated the mariners, who confirmed they were in good health with a radio that was dropped by the aircraft. Although their skiff had sustained damage that made it non-functional, it was recovered, and the men had food and water.

The next day, the crews on the Oliver Henry successfully rescued the stranded men and their equipment, taking them to Polowat Atoll.

Whether were out there protecting valuable resources or saving lives, were not just visitors  were members of this vibrant maritime community that connects all these islands, said Lt. Ray Cerrato, commanding officer of the Oliver Henry. This recent operation near Pikelot Atoll hits home the kind of difference we can make. Its about more than just performing a duty; its about the real human connections we forge and the lives we touch.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
TRIPOLI, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) on Friday expressed concern over the clashes that erupted a day earlier between rival armed groups in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, calling on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid escalation or retaliation.

In a statement, the mission condemned the use of violence to settle disputes "as it gravely endangers civilians and further undermines the fragile security situation," calling for those responsible for the clashes to be held accountable.

Meanwhile, the UNSMIL attributed the cause of the disturbance to "the prolonged political crisis and eroded institutional legitimacy," noting that "Libya needs to prioritize elections to establish legitimate governing bodies capable of extending the state's authority and upholding the rule of law," the statement said.

On Thursday, witnesses reported heavy gunfire in different parts of Tripoli and military mobilization on the streets. So far, no casualties due to the clashes have been reported.

Ever since the fall of late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been suffering insecurity and chaos. 
CHICAGO  When Tory Eisenlohr-Moul was training as a therapist, she saw people who had chronic suicidal thoughts  thoughts that would abruptly change from week to week. But when one of Eisenlohr-Mouls patients mentioned her menstrual cycle was impacting her symptoms, the clinical psychologist homed in on how menses might be part of the equation.

I started having people track their mood symptoms against their menstrual cycle and it seemed, for a lot of my patients, this was a really important reason that their suicidal thoughts and depression were changing week to week, said the associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Illinois Chicago. I thought if we had some evidence that this was common then maybe we could do something about it.

Eisenlohr-Moul led researchers to study how suicidal thoughts fluctuate across the menstrual cycle. The result is a longitudinal study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry in December, where Eisenlohr-Moul, postdoctoral researcher and clinical psychologist Jaclyn Ross, and M.D. and Ph.D. student Jordan Barone followed 119 female patients who tracked their suicidal thoughts and mental health symptoms daily over at least one menstrual cycle. They found that female patients with a history of suicidality experience an increased risk of suicidal ideation or suicidal planning in the days surrounding menstruation.

The researchers defined suicidal ideation as thinking: I wish I could go to sleep and never wake up; I might be better off dead. Suicidal planning is thinking about how and when someone might kill themself and what methods to use. Planning gets more specific and is more active than ideation.

Barone said data from female patients was found and surveyed in clinical trials in Chicago and North Carolina. Study participants had to have a regular menstrual cycle, not be on birth control pills or have a hormonal intrauterine device, and not have been recently pregnant.

The patients were asked a list of questions about thinking about death, thinking about killing themselves, or wishing they were dead. If they responded yes to having any of those symptoms within the past month, they were asked to track those symptoms.

According to the study, earlier research on menstrual cycles and suicidal thoughts looked at patterns in which suicide attempts increased in the days just before or during menses. Ross said the unique strength of the UIC study is the research team had the ability to measure day to day to see when suicidal ideation increases in intensity and when people tend to shift from suicidal ideation to suicidal planning. UICs study found suicidal ideation was more severe and suicidal planning was more likely to occur during the week before and during menses compared to other times.

We do find that both suicidal ideation and planning are peaking premenstrually for most people, Ross said. Where they tend to experience the lowest levels of ideation and planning is during that early luteal phase (right after ovulation). Then it steadily ticks up and peaks during that peri-menstrual phase. We found that it tended to be those depressive symptoms, hopelessness, losing interest in things we usually enjoyed  those were the types of symptoms that were driving those increases in intensity in suicidal ideation during the peri-menstrual phase. It was depression that really drove it for suicidal planning.

Suicidal ideation was one thing Shalene Gupta contended with. The Boston-based journalist remembers extreme feelings in her mid-20s. Then in 2020, she was diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that includes physical/behavioral symptoms that usually resolve with the onset of menstruation.

I just thought that I was a bad person with poor emotional control because, once a month, I would have these really terrible fights with my boyfriend, she said. I tend to be a calm, conflict-averse, highly boring type-A personality. These were really terrible. Thered be screaming, walking around at midnight, threatening to break up. And I could always predict these fights were going to happen within a couple of days before my period happened.

The pair broke up after six years together. It was when she started dating her now husband, and the fight pattern continued, that she started researching menstrual rage, PMS and anger. A call to her doctor led Gupta, 36, to getting help for the disorder. Gupta wrote a book about her menstruation journey, The Cycle: Confronting the Pain of Periods and PMDD, where she cites Eisenlohr-Mouls work. Gupta describes the history of PMDD, which was a known condition since the 1960s, but a feminist debate in the 1980s  and fears about the condition discrediting women everywhere  kept it from being added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic tool published by the American Psychiatric Association.

A PMDD diagnosis requires a mix of symptoms that include: increased mood swings, anger or irritability, depression, anxiety, decreased interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, lethargy, marked change in appetite, sleeping patterns, a sense of being overwhelmed, or physical symptoms such as breast tenderness, joint or muscle pain, bloating or weight gain. To count as PMDD, symptoms must be severe enough to interfere with someones work, education or relationships. The symptoms must also appear a week before menstruation and then disappear the week after menstruation.

Gupta got help by way of antidepressants. Treatment can also be found with birth control. Gupta said 5% to 10% of the population has classic PMDD, a condition that has a 30% to 80% chance of being transmitted from parent to offspring.

Given the data in the UIC study, Eisenlohr-Moul said the medical community cant use a cookie-cutter definition of premenstrual syndrome, or PMDD. A broader understanding of all of the different ways people can be sensitive to the menstrual cycle needs to be established, she said, so the medical community can provide more specific treatments.

Ross, who runs a private practice clinic for premenstrual disorders, agreed. She cites the large variability in the effects across patients and their menstruation cycle to show that the health care field really needs to individualize approaches to treatment in these suicidality and menstruation cases, especially when it comes to psychotherapy. Eisenlohr-Moul said its equally important to change the way we talk about PMS and PMDD as a society  that its more of a disorder people can have, and not a default characteristic of women who have periods.

Historically, weve thought about premenstrual mood symptoms as some people have them and some people dont, Eisenlohr-Moul said. If you look in the general population, you see that its 1% that have significant changes worth talking about. But it turns out that when you recruit people who just happen to be female with suicidality, most people have some degree of change, and it doesnt look the same for everyone. Its not so black and white, like you have it or you dont. Its a gradient: How sensitive are you to these hormonal changes in the brain?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recently released new clinical treatment guidelines for physicians treating premenstrual disorders. Eisenlohr-Moul said although premenstrual disorders are caused by an abnormal brain sensitivity to normal cyclical hormone flux, medical treatment can be provided by gynecologists, psychiatrists or primary care providers. Psychologists and other mental health professionals can help patients better cope and reduce the stress that can worsen the condition.

Researchers suggest women track their symptoms across their menstrual cycle, which could help clinicians make personalized recommendations about care. Symptom trackers and menstruation resources for patients can be found at the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders. Gupta agrees about the benefit of tracking ones menstruation symptoms and notes that mental symptoms surrounding menstruation are a disorder.

If youre having regular breakdowns, it is important to figure out the timing, she said. Thats something I think doctors should ask. She tracked hers and said it took about two months of tracking before getting her official diagnosis.

Were doing a lot of biomarker studies, Eisenlohr-Moul said. Jordans dissertation is looking at one of the markers that we think might be especially important for progesterone sensitivity, one of the hormones that people can be sensitive to. Others are more focused on sensitivity to estrogen and how that can affect different systems. Were trying to go down more specific pathways to understand the biology (of menses) so we can develop treatments. Biological targets  behavioral targets  just because somebodys symptoms are caused by hormones doesnt mean that a behavioral intervention cant help to right the ship and keep people functioning and even reverse some of those biological changes. Were trying to come at this from all angles.

Gupta is hopeful about the ongoing research with menstruation and mental health. She said too often menstruation is stigmatized, and seen through a sexist lens to discredit people.

I read Elon Musks 600-page biography by Walter Isaacson. (Musk) has undiagnosed bipolar disorder. Hes talked about it. And he gets to be the CEO of six companies, and no one is like, Hey, maybe we shouldnt let him do that because he has undiagnosed bipolar disorder, she said. If thats the case, then if somebody has PMDD, and theyre getting treatment for it, theyre managing it, that shouldnt be a reflection on what opportunities we give them as a society.
Mexico Seeks Ecuadors Expulsion From the UN Over Embassy Raid

(Bloomberg) -- Mexico is calling for Ecuadors expulsion from the United Nations for violating diplomatic norms by raiding its embassy in Quito last week.

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The Mexican government is also seeking a formal apology as it brings the case to the International Court of Justice on Thursday.

Ecuador is responsible for the damage that violations of its international obligations have caused, Mexicos Foreign Affairs Minister Alicia Barcena told reporters on Thursday.

The government of Daniel Noboa sent police into the Mexican embassy on Friday to arrest Jorge Glas, a former vice president convicted of corruption who had been granted asylum by the Mexican government the previous day.

The ICJ will determine if Ecuador breached UN rules and whether it should be expelled from the global organization, she said.

Mexico has suspended free trade talks with Ecuador, Barcena said.

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Sen. Mike Braun claims he is an outsider. How can a man who served four years as a U.S. senator make the false claim of being an outsider?

Braun claims he is a huge supporter of our police. How can a man who wholeheartedly participated in the election lie, which led to the brutal beatings of Capitol and Washington, D.C., police officers, have no conscience for his actions and readily accept the endorsement of Trump, who perpetrated the events of Jan. 6?

Braun is a longtime advocate of no-exception abortion. This includes victims of rape, incest, and mothers life-threatening conditions. Forcing any woman or little girl to bear a child under any of these circumstances is beyond barbaric. This should be unacceptable to all women and to the men who love and value them.

Braun claims he will do something about the border, but he voted against the most effective bipartisan bill for border protection in decades, a bill endorsed by the Border Security Patrol Union. He and his colleagues took orders from Donald Trump, now a private citizen at Mar-a-logo, to stop support of the bill.

Sen. Mike Braun talks with attendees of the National Federation of Independent Businesses gubernatorial candidate forum and luncheon on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at the Wellington Fishers Banquet & Conference Center in Fishers, Indiana.

Braun claims to be a patriot, yet supported Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville blocking military promotions for many weeks. This was condemned by high-ranking officials from all branches of the military. Positions were not filled which, in some instances, placed the security of our nation in jeopardy.

Braun attempts to portray himself as a blue collar working man in his blue shirt with rolled sleeves when, in actuality, he is a multimillionaire.

Brauns campaign incorrectly disclosed financial information for 29 transactions, which added up to $11.5 million in 2018. The Federal Elections Commission recently fined his campaign $159,000 for this transgression.

Hoosiers deserve better than Braun.

Sonya Stuckey Beasley is from Bedford.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: From abortion to policing, Mike Braun's claims don't match reality
Mike Pence, who served as vice president under former President Donald Trump, has landed a new gig.

Pence will be teaching a course at Grove City College, the school announced Thursday. Grove City College is a conservative Christian school located in Grove City, Pennsylvania.

"It was an honor to be on campus today and see President Paul McNulty and so many wonderful students!" Pence tweeted Thursday, with photos of him addressing the annual conference held by The Institute for Faith & Freedom.

Pence will serve as the Distinguished Visiting Fellow for Faith & Public Life for the schools new Center for Faith & Public Life, which will "explore and support the presence of Christian faith in public institutions," the school said.

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Since leaving office, Mike Pence has written a book, "So Help Me God," and run for the presidency.

In a separate statement, Pence said he was honored to be a visiting fellow for the college.

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"It is my great honor to serve as a visiting fellow to Grove City Colleges new Center for Faith & Public Life," Pence said. "Faith and engaging in public life are not mutually exclusive, nor should they ever be. History shows that Christians steadily working toward the common good have changed the world, and Grove City College opening a center shows they are committed to continuing this work."

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The former vice president and governor of Indiana continued: "Grove City College has been a pivotal institution in helping students grow in their faith and in understanding Gods calling for their life through a rigorous education and a faith-based community. Grove City works to send out young men and women into the world to be beacons of light and truth in a world that needs leaders of integrity and principle."

Former Vice President Mike Pence called Grove City College "a pivotal institution in helping students grow in their faith and in understanding Gods calling for their life through a rigorous education and a faith-based community."

Grove City College President Paul J. McNulty emphasized the role of faith in society and praised Pence as the "perfect choice" for the position.

"The appropriate role of faith in the public square is a major issue in this moment of our American life. The Founders envisioned a free society sustained by a self-governing citizenry and strengthened by virtues rooted in religious belief. At the core of Christian faith is the call to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. The Center will examine how and why Christians have sought to put their faith into action for the common good," McNulty said in a statement.

Grove City College President Paul J. McNulty praised former Vice President Mike Pence as the "perfect choice" for the position.

McNulty added: "Mike Pence is the perfect choice for the Center's first fellowship."

"No one has pursued this calling more sincerely than the former vice president," the president continued. "He is an extraordinary role model for what it looks like to lead with wisdom and winsomeness in public life, and he will be a leading source of thought leadership and an impactful voice of the Center."

In a news release, the school added: "As one of Americas foremost Christian political leaders, Pence has been explicit about how his faith has guided him as a public servant. The wisdom he has accrued over decades of service in Congress, as governor of Indiana, and as the nations second-in-command for four years under President Donald J. Trump will benefit the new center."

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Pence will teach a course with McNulty, write and speak with students in his new capacity. He will also participate in various events, the school said.

Since leaving office, Pence has written a book, "So Help Me God," and run for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential election. He has since suspended his campaign.





Original article source: Mike Pence lands new gig after failed 2024 presidential bid
Russia is sending troops from far eastern military units, including its Pacific Fleet, to replenish personnel losses in Ukraine, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) said on April 12.

Russia has lost 451,730 troops fighting in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022, according to the April 12 update from Ukraine's General Staff. The figure indicates the number of Russian fighters who have been killed or injured and are unable to return to active duty.

The BBC's Russian service, along with the Russian independent media outlet Mediazona, confirmed the identities of more than 50,000 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine earlier in April. The true death toll is thought to be much higher.

Moscow is now deploying the personnel of the Pacific Fleet and the 11th Army of the Air Force to replenish its losses in Ukraine, as well as to staff new military units, HUR said.



The Pacific Fleet and 11th Army of the Air Force "were not previously directly involved in hostilities against Ukraine," according to HUR.

The commander of the Pacific Fleet has reportedly stopped rotations to Syria and instead is sending around 2,000 personnel from Russia's Far East to Ukraine.

Read also: Id be a king in Somalia with this money: Foreign POWs on being lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine

Another 400 soldiers from the 11th Army will "patch up the holes of the 155th and 40th brigades of the Russian marines, which are fighting against Ukraine and are undermanned due to huge losses," HUR said.

The soldiers are currently stationed in the city of Khabarovsk, which lies around 6,500 kilometers from Ukraine on Russia's border with China.

According to HUR, some personnel from the far eastern military units "will join the new motorized rifle brigade of the aggressor state, which is being formed in Voronezh," a city located less than 200 kilometers from the border with Ukraine.

U.S. General Christopher Cavoli said on April 11 that Russia has largely replaced its heavy battlefield losses in Ukraine, and at a much faster pace than anticipated.

"Russia is reconstituting that force far faster than our initial estimates suggested," Cavoli wrote in a statement to Congress. "The army is actually now larger  by 15 percent  than it was when it invaded Ukraine."

Russia's military has bolstered its numbers through a partial mobilization conducted in the fall of 2022, which many believe has continued in a more concealed manner since.

It has also brought prisoners, migrants, and foreign nationals into its ranks.

Read also: Lukashenko, Putin hold 4-hour meeting in Moscow

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
MILLIS  A Millis Public Schools bus driver whom authorities allege shoved a woman on Wednesday in front of nearly 50 students is denying the allegations, instead blaming the woman for the disturbance.

"(Expletive) crazy woman," Mamdouh Abdelnour, 63, of Uxbridge, told the Daily News when contacted. "She was attacking me on the bus. I tried to stop her from going on the bus. She scared all of the kids on the bus. They were all screaming and crying because of her."

According to a press release from the Millis Police Department, Abdelnour was driving a bus with 48 students from the Clyde Brown Elementary School on board. Police say that shortly after 3 p.m., Abdelnour struck several trash barrels and bushes while attempting to execute a three-point turn on Village Street.

Millis police are accusing a bus driver of assaulting a woman who confronted him on Wednesday after he allegedly struck some trash barrels and bushes while attempting to make a three-point turn.

Police said a woman who witnessed the incident confronted Abdelnour, who then shoved her. She called police.

Bus driver says he accidentally missed stop, tried to turn around

Abdelnour said Thursday he attempted the three-point turn on what he said is a "very narrow street" because he had accidentally missed a stop for one of the students on the bus. He admitted to striking the barrels, but said it was a light touch and that he planned to pick them up.

"Did I kill someone when I hit the trash cans?" he said. "That's crazy. When I was going to pick them up, she came into the bus. No one's allowed in the bus. I've been a bus driver for 15 years and I know the rules."

Police Chief Christopher Soffayer said the woman is a resident of the neighborhood and also a school employee. He confirmed the woman entered the bus to confront Abdelnour, and that the bus and the barrels were damaged as a result of the incident.

Millis police say this bus was damaged after its driver struck trash barrels while attempting a three-point turn on Village Street.

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Abdelnour said the woman screamed at him and moved to the middle of the bus. Abdelnour said he tried to speak to the students in an effort to calm them, but said the woman blocked the aisle with her arms. He admitted to pushing past her, but claimed he never shoved her.

"I was doing my job, she's stopped me from doing my job," Abdelnour said. "I was trying to calm them (the students) down. When she saw that, she tried to stop me."

Bus driver placed on leave, appears May 7 in Wrentham District Court

After the incident, several family members arrived at Village Street but were sent back to Clyde Elementary School for pickup, police said in the release.

It is with great relief that we inform you that no children were injured in this incident," Soffayer said in a statement. "The safety and well-being of your children are of utmost importance to us, and we extend our sincere gratitude to the school administration for their prompt response and diligent efforts to ensure the safe reunification of students with their families. Please be assured that we will continue to keep you informed of any developments and provide updates as necessary. Thank you for your trust and confidence in our organization.

Abdelnour has been placed on administrative leave, Superintendent of Schools Robert Mullaney said in a statement sent to parents.

"We will cooperate with Millis police as they conduct their investigation and would like to thank Millis police and Millis fire for their quick response this afternoon," he said in the statement. "Most importantly, all students were returned safely to their families."

Abdelnour has been summoned to appear May 7 in Wrentham District Court. Police have charged him with assault and battery and driving to endanger. They also cited him for a marked-lanes violation and for making an improper turn.

Abdelnour said he's confident he will be cleared of all charges. He also said he feels like he's being treated poorly and was never given a chance to explain his side. He said after the incident, police had him test his blood sugar and on Thursday he had to take a drug test for work.

Soffayer said he could not comment on any kind of medical testing.

"Driving a bus is stressful," Abdelnour said. "I drive 61 kids; can you imagine how loud and stressful that is? We're helping these kids, and we get a lot of stress form the kids. We're under stress. They need to help us, not be against us like this."

Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or nmiller@wickedlocal.com. For up-to-date public safety news, follow him on X @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebok.com/NormanMillerCrime.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Bus driver assaulted woman, Millis Police say. Driver disputes account
HUDSON, Wis. (AP)  A 54-year-old Minnesota man was convicted Thursday in the slaying of a high school student and stabbing of four other people who were tubing on a western Wisconsin river.

A Wisconsin circuit court jury found Nicolae Miu guilty of first-degree reckless homicide, four counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and one count of battery, Minnesota Public Radio reported. No sentencing date has been set.

Isaac Schuman, 17, of Stillwater, Minnesota, was stabbed to death in late July 2022 while he and the other victims were tubing along the Apple River in St. Croix County, which sits along Wisconsins state line with Minnesota.

Wisconsin authorities investigating complex, multi-state crime spree that ended with three dead, including a 13-year-old

Two men from Luck, Wisconsin, a woman from Burnsville, Minnesota, and a man from Elk River, Minnesota, were wounded.

Miu, of Prior Lake, Minnesota, attacked the group after people accused him of approaching children in the water, investigators said in court documents. Miu told investigators that he acted in self-defense.

Miu was tubing down the river with his wife and several other people, according to a copy of a criminal complaint obtained by Minnesota Public Radio.

Miu told investigators that he was using a snorkel and goggles to look for a lost cellphone. Video and witness accounts indicate bystanders accused him of approaching children in the water. Witnesses said Miu was bothering a group of juveniles and others told him to leave, the complaint stated.

Instead of leaving, Miu punched a woman and a fight ensued, according to the complaint. Video shows him falling into the river, emerging with a knife and then stabbing a person.

Man in Brown County charged with breaking into his ex-girlfriends residence & abducting her children, facing 10+ charges

Miu told investigators that he was provoked, according to the complaint. They attacked me, he said. I was in self-defense mode.

Prosecutors had argued that Miu had opportunities to diffuse the situation or walk away.

Defense attorney Aaron Nelson told reporters Thursday that he was surprised and respectfully disappointed by the verdict. Nelson said Miu was sad, obviously disappointed in the result. And, you know, contemplating his future life.

Schuman was heading into his senior year at Stillwater High School when he was killed. His family described him as an honor roll student who was preparing to apply to several universities to study electrical engineering.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
NEW DELHI, April 12 (Xinhua) -- India's anti-terror agency the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Friday said it has arrested two men who plotted and executed last month's blast at a popular eatery in the southern city of Bengaluru.

According to officials, the duo was arrested from Kanthi in West Bengal's East Midnapore district.

"Mussavir Hussain Shazeb and Abdul Matheen Taha were caught after a joint operation by central intelligence agencies and police from West Bengal, Karnataka, Telangana, and Kerala," a statement issued by NIA to local media said.

NIA said Shazeb is the accused who placed the improvised explosive device at the cafe and Taha was the mastermind behind the planning and execution of the blast.

The low-intensity blast that went off at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru during the lunch hour on March 1 injured 10 people. 
Minnesota marijuana sales could be delayed or in short supply if planting doesn't start soon

Minnesota's legal marijuana market could be headed toward a chaotic launch next year if legislators or regulators don't figure out how to license growers ahead of dispensaries.

Otherwise, there won't be enough product to go around by the time retailers open their doors.

"Cultivation needs to be staged at least 10-12 months before you try and get products out," said Bryant Jones, a member of Minnesota's Cannabis Advisory Council who used to be a licensed grower in Massachusetts. "The plant has to be cultivated, processed, tested, packaged, etcetera."

The state currently plans to issue licenses to all types of cannabis businesses  including growers, manufacturers and retailers  early next year. If growing doesn't start until then, Minnesota might not have a well-supplied market until 2026.

Of the nearly two dozen states that have legalized adult-use cannabis, many have learned the hard way that early demand for legal pot is far greater than supply. That imbalance pushes prices well above black-market levels, which slows legal-market interest among consumers and disrupts the growth of the licensed market meant to serve them.

Charlene Briner, interim director of Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), addressed the issue during a cannabis conference and expo in Mankato on Wednesday.

"We are acutely aware of the need to cultivate prior to opening for retail sales," Briner said. "We also know that we have a very real problem  we have no authority to actually allow people to touch plants until the rules are in place, unless the Legislature gives us some sort of specific authority or we can identify another mechanism to do that."

The office must set rules for the industry before it can issue business licenses, and Briner expects that process to wrap up early next year.

She noted that other states have leveraged their existing medical cannabis programs to partly supply the market ahead of retail sales, but Minnesota does not currently allow that.

"OCM continues to evaluate all mechanisms to allow for early cultivation and will continue working with legislators and advocates to ensure a successful launch," Briner said in a statement to the Star Tribune on Thursday.

State Rep. Zack Stephenson, who carried the recreational marijuana bill through the House last year, said he believes the law gives the OCM sufficient discretion and rulemaking authority. He believes the office can issue cultivation licenses earlier and doesn't need additional legislation to do so.

"I want OCM to get rules and licenses as quickly as possible, so that we can start growing as quickly as possible. So that we can have a fully functioning, legitimate market as quickly as possible," said Stephenson, DFL-Coon Rapids. "This is something that's left to the discretion of OCM."

Jason Tarasek, a cannabis attorney with Vicente LLP, suggested expanding the state's existing medical marijuana cultivation rules to recreational growers to speed up the process.

"Why can't you have cultivators operating now under medical cannabis rules?" he said.

Filling the void

If cultivation doesn't start ahead of retail sales, Stephenson said an early supply shortage is "certainly conceivable."

Importing products from other states isn't an option because it's federally illegal to move marijuana across state lines. Minnesota must establish its own supply chain like every other state that legalized marijuana before it.

Under existing rules, Minnesota's two medical marijuana providers could apply for "combination" licenses next year that allow them to serve medical and recreational customers.

Tribal nations in Minnesota could help meet some consumer demand. They have sovereignty over their marijuana markets and laws, and some have already opened dispensaries and cultivation facilities on tribal lands.

Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures is building a 50,000-square-foot cultivation facility that should open later this year, which may be the first of many cannabis greenhouses on Mille Lacs land. The White Earth and Red Lake nations could also supply retailers around the state if they choose to.

By the end of the year, tribal and medical marijuana operations in Minnesota could exceed 200,000 square feet of canopy, the industry term for space dedicated to growing plants.

But the OCM estimates Minnesota will need 1 to 2 million square feet worth of cannabis cultivation to meet market demand in the long run.

"Everyone is concerned about this plants-in-the-ground issue," said Angela Dawson, a licensed hemp grower and the co-founder and president of 40 Acre Cooperative, a cannabis collective. "We have a cultivation infrastructure between hemp and the medical cannabis program. We need to use what we have."

For the rest of the state's cannabis cultivators eager to start legally growing, it's hurry-up-and-wait.

"The illicit market is going crazy right now," Dawson said. "We need to free up the system a bit so we're not starting from scratch in March 2025," when licenses likely will become available.

Opening a stable market is important for the long-term health of the industry. Early high prices might draw an abundance of growers and retailers. But as more competition comes online, prices will crash and many businesses will fail, as happened in Oregon, Michigan and elsewhere.

While Minnesotans have been promised more places to shop for blunts and dabs sometime in 2025, advocates worry the state's launch could take much longer.

"That just doesn't look possible by the way things are going," Dawson said. "They are listening, but I haven't seen it in the output yet."

Staff writer Matt DeLong contributed to this report.
In January, the head of Mississippis Department of Mental Health told lawmakers that people who arent charged with a crime are spending less time in jail than they used to: The average wait time for a state hospital bed was down to three days after a court hearing.

At that moment, a young man was on his 16th day locked in the DeSoto County Jail with no criminal charges. He was waiting for mental health treatment.

His mother, Sarah, was still trying to understand why he was there at all.

David, 29, was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder about a decade ago. Since then, he has cycled through hospital stays and group homes. Sarah can rattle off the low points. There was the time her son was walking in the street and got hit by a car and broke his neck. And the time he called her from a Megabus in Texas, nearly at the border with Mexico.

But this was something new: a three-week detention that began after he called 911 seeking treatment and eventually wound up jailed at the request of his providers.

Her sons treatment in DeSoto County  where a county website still uses the phrase lunacy hearings to refer to the proceedings where judges order people like David to receive psychiatric treatment  reminded Sarah of a different era.

When they, you know, lock them in the dungeon or whatever and put chains on them and just let them live the rest of their lives there, she said. This is so medieval, what theyre doing.

In the end, David was jailed for a total of three weeks before being transported to North Mississippi State Hospital at the end of January. Mississippi Today is not using his or his familys real names to protect his privacy.

It is far from unusual in Mississippi and particularly in DeSoto County for people to be jailed solely because they are awaiting treatment through the states involuntary commitment process. No other state jails so many people for such lengths of time, solely on the basis of mental illness. Mississippi Today and ProPublica previously reported that hundreds of people are jailed without criminal charges every year while they await evaluations and treatment through the involuntary commitment process.

From 2019 through 2022, DeSoto County jailed people without criminal charges just under 500 times, more than any other county in the news organizations analysis.

As lawmakers debate changing Mississippis commitment laws to reduce jail detentions, Davids path through the states mental health system shows how it can funnel a sick person into jail, and how long it can take for them to get out once locked up.

A publicly funded facility established to treat people in crisis sent David to jail. Though the Department of Mental Health says commitment hearings should take place within 10 days, county officials instead kept him locked up for 14 days before he saw a judge, as winter weather shut down the county court system. The state hospital where the judge ordered him to receive treatment would not admit him for six more days  all of which he spent in jail.

The county is working on opening a crisis center to treat people suffering mental health crises  and keep them out of jail during the commitment process  and supervisors recently voted to hire an architect to draw up renovation plans for the county building that will house the center. The county is currently the largest in the state without one.

County administrator Vanessa Lynchard noted that reforming the commitment process is a priority for the Legislature this year, and that could hopefully bring some relief.

Nobody likes mental commitments in the jail, she said.

But officials involved in the process say jail is sometimes the only place they have to detain people during the commitment process, and that jailing people is safer than sending them home. And so every year, the county jails well over 100 people solely because they may be mentally ill  including people like David.

He really wants to live a normal life

In early January, David walked away from his mothers home in a tidy subdivision in DeSoto County. He knocked on a neighbors door and used the phone to call 911 for an ambulance to take him to the hospital.

When Sarah found out he was at Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto, she decided to let him stay there and get treatment. That he had been able to get himself there was a sign of progress. When his mental illness became severe about 10 years ago, he used to just let himself spin out of control, Sarah said.

When David was a teenager, he developed phobias that his mother found strange. He stopped wanting to go to school, claiming his breath smelled bad. After he ran away from home, he was hospitalized at Lakeside, a psychiatric hospital in Memphis.

He graduated from high school and got a job working at a warehouse, riding his bicycle more than an hour each way to arrive by 5 or 6 oclock in the morning.

Then, when he was about 19, stuff went totally to the left with him, his mother said. He would disappear from home for days at a time. If he wound up at a hospital, staff wouldnt tell her he was there, citing patient privacy protections. At home, he would refuse to take medications.

A few years ago, Sarah spent $2,500 to go through the legal process to gain conservatorship over her son so that she would always be included in conversations about his treatment.

When the dust settles and the smoke clears, he always comes back to me, she said. If youve got him and put him on the wrong medication and overmedicated him, then Ive got to help him get back on track.

David belongs to a tight-knit family: He has siblings, a doting grandfather, aunts and uncles. Sarahs phone is full of pictures of her son. Theres a shot of him getting his face painted at a family party and another of him wearing a Mickey Mouse t-shirt at Disneyland. A video shows him chasing his sisters kids around his mothers backyard.

His family tries to help him manage his symptoms. When he lived with his older sister Beth recently, he would go into the backyard to pace and talk to himself.

Id go out there like every 15 minutes, like, Hey, youre too loud, you need to calm down, but I dont interrupt, she said. Thats his way of calming himself down.

David has told his sister that he doesnt like depending on her and their mom, that he feels bad he doesnt drive or hold a job  something that has been a goal for years.

Hell tell you that he really wants to live a normal life, Beth said.

From the crisis unit to a jail cell

One day in January, after a few days at Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto, David was transported to a crisis stabilization unit in Corinth, where he had agreed to get treatment. Operated by the community mental health center Region IV, which serves residents of DeSoto and four other counties, the facility is one of more than a dozen around the state designed to serve people closer to their homes, ideally keeping them out of the state hospitals  and out of jail.

For David, the crisis unit did the opposite.

Sarah sent over her conservatorship paperwork so she could be updated about his treatment. She expected to hear from her son not long after he arrived there, because he always calls her once he feels more like himself. When that didnt happen, she called the crisis unit.

Hes in the DeSoto County Jail, staff told her.

Documents filed with the DeSoto County Chancery Court and reviewed by Mississippi Today show that after refusing medications twice, David had taken them and said he thought it was helping. There were no indications of violence or physical aggression. But not long after he arrived, staff requested a writ  a document allowing the sheriffs department to take custody of a patient  because of his agitation and inappropriate sexual conduct.

Staff reported that he was experiencing Psychosis including delusions, irritability. He is continually masterbating (sic). They wrote that he had masturbated in front of other patients and a staff member.

Its not clear from the documents exactly how long David was at the crisis unit before staff requested the writ, and Sarah said she was not contacted when he arrived there. It may have been as little as a day or two: The court order committing him says he arrived at Corinth on or about 01/08/24.

On Jan. 8, Catherine Davis, crisis coordinator at Region IV, which runs the crisis center, wrote: At Corinth Crisis they are requesting he go to DeSoto County Jail.

The next afternoon, deputies arrived to take David into custody and drive him 90 minutes back to DeSoto County. He was booked into the county jail with his charge listed as Writ to take custody.

Psychiatrists told Mississippi Today that people with Davids condition may exhibit sexually inappropriate behavior like public masturbation, stepping from hypersexuality and impulsivity that can be symptoms of mania.

All they want to focus on is what he was doing wrong there, Sarah said. I understand that. But thats because he needs psychiatric treatment. Hes mentally unstable. Youre a crisis center. Isnt that what you do? But instead you ship him off to jail.

Jason Ramey, executive director of Region IV, the community mental health center that runs the crisis unit, said he cant discuss a specific client, citing HIPAA.

At no point in time is it our goal to have somebody sitting in jail, but we also have to think about the wellbeing of the whole CSU, whether its the other clients there and things like that, he said.

Ramey said that in 2023, the crisis unit staff initiated commitment proceedings on only three patients. The facility treated nearly 300 people in the most recent fiscal year.

We want them to continue to receive treatment, he said of patients awaiting transfer to a different facility. If were not able to provide that, we want to get them to the state hospital as quickly as possible. Its not like we file a writ just to have them go sit in jail.

But in Davids case, thats exactly what happened.

Dr. Paul Appelbaum, a professor of psychiatry at Columbia and former president of the American Psychiatric Association, reviewed the commitment paperwork and initial evaluation filed with the chancery court in Davids case. He said sending David to jail was wrong.

The sexually inappropriate behavior is a function of his current acute psychosis, and so the proper response to it is to treat the psychosis, which doesnt happen overnight, he said.

Dr. Marvin Swartz, a professor of psychiatry at Duke University, said it may have been appropriate to transfer David to another facility, but that elsewhere in the United States, such a transfer would not involve waiting in jail.

Dr. Lauren Stossel, a forensic psychiatrist and former chief of mental health for New York City jails, said that mental health providers have a responsibility to transfer patients to a higher level of care if they cant provide safe and effective treatment.

Mississippis practice of routinely jailing people without criminal charges while they await psychiatric treatment demands systemic change, she said. But in the meantime, crisis center staff shouldnt avoid commitment at all costs.

Clinicians need to consider all their patients and staff and make a decision about what they can manage in their facility, she said. The fact that jail is a possible alternative is appalling and needs to be factored in, but they also have to be careful about getting in over their heads trying to manage patients they have no way of treating safely or effectively.

When reviewing the information crisis center staff provided to the chancery court to justify their decision to initiate commitment proceedings, however, Stossel didnt see a clear explanation of what staff believed the patient needed that they werent equipped to provide.

Its not clear to me based on this information: what symptoms or behaviors is this patient exhibiting that you cant manage? What interventions have you already tried? How long did you allow him to respond to treatment before determining a higher level of care was necessary? Its crucial to require a clear justification to protect the patient from an unnecessarily restrictive outcome.

Adam Moore, spokesman for the Department of Mental Health, which funds the crisis units, did not answer specific questions about what happened to David. He said in an email statement that a crisis unit may initiate commitment proceedings when their clinical staff feels that someone served there meets commitment criteria or is in need of a higher level of care.

I didnt know I was gonna get sent to jail

While her son was in jail, Sarah wondered what medications he was taking, concerned that any disruption could worsen his symptoms. She and her daughter, Beth, worried about what he might experience as a young Black man locked up  with no criminal charges  in a Mississippi county jail. They prayed for God to keep him safe.

Sarah called the jail every day to find out how David was doing. During one of those calls, on Jan. 22, a staffer at the jail told her David would have a hearing in court the next day.

It had been 14 days since he was jailed, and 15 since the affidavit requesting his commitment was filed. The Department of Mental Health publishes guidelines saying that the entire process should wrap up within 10 days, but it doesnt track whether that actually happens.

Special master Adam Emerson, the attorney appointed by a chancellor to preside over commitment hearings, said the county normally holds commitment hearings every Thursday, and sometimes on Tuesdays as well to meet the statutory deadline. Most hearings take place within a week of the writ being served, he said.

He would not comment on Davids case because it is his policy not to discuss specific commitment proceedings, but said that the week of Jan. 15, the entire county court system was shut down due to winter weather, postponing all hearings to the following week.

Emerson said he serves as special master as a way to serve the community where he has lived for nearly his entire life. During a decade as a public defender in the county, he realized many of his clients had mental health or addiction issues that led to criminal charges.

I continue to believe that early intervention in situations where mental health issues are involved will lead to better outcomes to the individuals and society at large, he wrote in an email to Mississippi Today.

To make it to the hearing, Sarah had to take the day off of work. At the courthouse in Hernando, she sat in the hallway with three other families of people going through the commitment process.

Eventually, she was called into the courtroom and took a seat in the front row. Deputies escorted her son into the room. He was shackled, with his hands chained to his waist and another chain running down to his feet.

Sarah noticed that almost everyone else in the courtroom was white. She suspected that racism had played a role in her sons treatment. He is 6-foot-7, and though she knows him as a gentle giant who acts like one of her grandchildren, she worries other people are scared of him.

Its three strikes against you right there, she said. Youre African-American strike one. African-American male strike two. Then youre an African-American male with a mental health disease. You just struck out.

Emerson said he could not speak to Davids treatment outside of his courtroom, but that race had not played a role in his decision.

I can only tell you that everyone who comes before my court is treated equally and with dignity and respect, he said. A persons race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual preference, etc. is never a factor in our decisions.

Mississippi Today reviewed the recording of the hearing after filing a motion to unseal it, with a letter of support from Sarah.

At the beginning of the 10-minute hearing, Catherine Davis, the Region IV crisis coordinator who had filed the affidavit against David, explained why she believed commitment was necessary.

Davis said that David had been masturbating at the crisis center, and that he was hostile, without saying what that meant exactly.

When he was redirected he was becoming hostile, Davis said. He was pacing, responding to internal stimuli. So they felt at that point he wasnt safe with the staff and the other clients. So they asked us to do a court commitment.

When it was his turn to speak, David offered a different account of how he reacted to instructions from staff.

After they told me the first time, I stopped, he said, forming his sentences slowly and softly. I really didnt know it was a problem. I didnt know I was gonna get sent to jail. I was just trying to get to the hospital.

He told the judge he didnt need more treatment.

Emerson called on Sarah to speak as well. She described the frustration and stress of sending her conservatorship paperwork to the crisis center only to learn days later her son had been taken to jail with no one informing her.

I have been left out of this the entire time, and I dont understand why, she said.

On the recommendation of Davis and two physicians, Emerson ordered David into treatment at a state hospital.

Im doing that for your own good, to try to get you stabilized and get you back out, he said to David.

To Sarah, he added: Certainly based on where hes sent, if I were you Id try to get those records down to them so maybe they can keep you in the loop, OK?

Before she could talk to or hug her son, Sarah was ushered out of the courtroom. David went back to jail for six more days.

How does being incarcerated support ones mental health?

On Jan. 29, 20 days after he was first jailed, David was transported to North Mississippi State Hospital.

Moore, the Department of Mental Health spokesman, said that the wait time information the agency had shared with lawmakers was an average and that it does not include any time a person is jailed before their hearing.

Any individuals wait time may be more or less than the average wait time for all admissions from a given period of time, he wrote.

By early April, David was still at the state hospital in Tupelo. When Sarah visited him, she was disturbed that he had little energy, which she attributes to his long list of medications prescribed by the hospital staff. He told her hes ready to come home, and he talked about trying to get a job.

His mother filed a complaint with the Mississippi Department of Health and with the Attorney Generals Public Integrity Division, which is responsible for prosecuting cases involving the exploitation of vulnerable adults.

She also emailed Wendy Bailey, head of the Department of Mental Health.

As I deal with DeSoto County, which happens to be one of the fastest growing counties in the state, I am appalled at their antiquated systems of mental health support, she wrote.



How does being incarcerated support ones mental health? What immediate changes can be made to improve upon this system?

Bailey connected Sarah with Falisha Stewart, director of the Office of Consumer Supports. Stewart said there had been a communication breakdown when the Corinth crisis stabilization unit failed to contact Sarah about her sons transfer to jail. She said the agency had enacted a plan to prevent communication lapses from happening in the future.

It is unfortunate individuals who deal with mental health issues have to wait in jails for an available bed while being committed, Stewart wrote. These laws can only change through the process of speaking with your state representatives.
MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  A Mobile County Circuit Court Judge sentenced Todd Overstreet to life in prison for breaking into a womans home and raping her on Christmas Day 2020.

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson: Prine was insubordinate

Prosecutors said that Overstreet was high on drugs on Christmas Day 2020, and broke into a womans home in the Country Club Village area of Mobile.

Todd Overstreet. (Photo courtesy of the Mobile County Sheriffs Office)

He hid in her closet, and once she returned, he pulled a gun on her and began to sexually assault her.

He then led investigators on a manhunt for two weeks, and then he was spotted by an officer and captured while walking in the area of Cody Road North.

La Martina owner, passenger die in Fairhope crash

Overstreet was sentenced to life for first-degree burglary, sex abuse by force and sodomy. Hes also serving a concurrent 10-year sentence for his second-degree assault.

Overstreet was also given credit for the time he already served in Metro Jail toward his prison sentence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
Model left with broken jaw from brutal robbery outside swanky NYC lounge claims security just watched the attack

Adam Byrd, 33, just left the Lower East Side's Little Sister Lounge with a pal on March 16 when a group of men punched, kicked, and beat him with a belt before snatching a $35,000 necklace off his neck in a "targeted' attack, he told The Post.

A New York model says he was left with a broken jaw and missing teeth during a brutal robbery outside a swanky Manhattan lounge  and is now planning to sue the night spot, arguing its security did nothing to stop the attack, The Post has learned.

Adam Byrd, 33, had just left the East Villages Little Sister Lounge with a pal on March 16 when a group of men punched, kicked and beat him with a belt before snatching a $35,000 necklace off his neck, Byrd and police said.

But Byrd claims the bars bouncers refused to help despite being mere steps away during the beatdown.

Security is three feet from this situation and watched this happen, with the belt and stomping to the face, Byrd told The Post on Thursday.

Model Adam Byrd was left with a broken jaw after the brutal beatdown outside Little Sister Lounge. James Keivom

The model and actor  who said he was still rattled a month after the attack  plans to sue the security staff and Tao Group Hospitality, which owns Little Sister Lounge, for negligence, his attorney, Anthony C. Sears, said.

Byrd said he was walking out of the lounge, located on East 11th Street, near Fourth Avenue, when the attackers came out of nowhere and jumped his pal.

I see my friend literally within four seconds of walking out of the venue, he gets sucker punched by one guy and then sucker punched by another guy, Byrd said in a phone interview.

One of the assailants allegedly yanked off his buddys Rolex, before turning to Byrd and pummeling him.

My back is turned. I hear footsteps running up to me and the next thing I know I wake up to a stomp, Byrd recalled, adding the brutes pinned him down and elbowed his body.

The attackers then pulled out a belt.

They were beating me in the face with belts they were beating me while I was unconscious for over a minute, Byrd said.

They were trying to rip the chain off my neck but it wouldnt come off, he said about his 22-inch Cuban white gold diamond encrusted necklace. They were stomping my face down onto the pavement.

He said he was pleading with the bouncers to do something.

Im literally begging for help, he recalled. Im asking please, can somebody call the cops?

Adam Byrd said the attack happened right after he left the Little Sister Lounge on the Lower East Side. Facebook/Little Sister Lounge

Byrd said he eventually ran into the street, stopping a police officer after his attackers fled.

He was taken by EMS to Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital, police said.

Byrd spent several days in the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery on the inside of his jaw and was left with wires in his mouth.

I dont have feeling on my jaw on the outside from my chin to the back side of the jaw They had to mend one of my nerves, he said, adding he needs six months or more of recovery.

Adam Byrd spent several days in the hospital and required jaw surgery. Courtesy of Shulman and Hill

Byrd said a detective told him he was targeted, and hes been left feeling paranoid since.

I never would have imagined that they would have seen me getting stomped in the face and not only not help but ensure I didnt get any assistance, he said of the security guards.

Adam Byrd estimates he needs six months to recover from the incident. Courtesy of Shulman and Hill

Sears, of personal injury firm Shulman & Hill, said its one of the most heinous cases of negligent security hes ever seen.

This case highlights a disturbing reality: the negligence of security guards to take any measure, at all, to protect club patrons, he said.

The Tao Group did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Police said the suspected assailants remain at large.
MOKENA, Ill.  A southwest suburban man accused of possessing child pornography is now facing felony charges.

According to Illinois State Police (ISP), 75-year-old Edward Regan, a Mokena resident, has been charged with five counts of possession of child pornography.

Authorities say the charges were handed down after a search warrant was executed at Regans home in the 11000 block of Daniel Trail on Thursday.

Read more: Latest Chicago news headlines

ISP officials say during the search, agents allegedly gathered evidence of child pornography.

75-year-old Edward Regan has been charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, according to Illinois State Police.

Regan was then arrested and taken to the Will County Jail.

LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland

Authorities released details about Regans arrest in a news release on Friday morning.

ISP officials say tips on child pornography can be reported through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Childrens (NCMEC) CyberTipline. Tips can be left anonymously.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
In her bid for the New Hampshire governors office recently, former U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte took to these pages in an attempt to rewrite her long and well-documented record of working to dismantle Granite Staters reproductive rights  including attacking in vitro fertilization  throughout her time in the United States Senate.In that piece, Ayotte claims, I never voted against access to IVF, nor has my position ever shifted. Thats simply not true. In 2012, Ayotte voted for the Blunt Amendment, which gave insurers and employers the ability to deny coverage for any kind of care  which could include IVF, birth control, mental health care, you name it  on religious or moral grounds. Those are the facts, and Ayotte cant dispute that just because her politically unpopular votes are coming back to haunt her now.

Kayla Montgomery, Vice President of Public Affairs, Planned Parenthood New Hampshire Action Fund.

Ayottes excuses fall flat, as trusted experts and credible media outlets across the country reported on the threat posed by the Blunt Amendment at the time, including the Washington Post and NBC News, which highlighted the implications that the Blunt Amendment would have on any health service that employers find objectionable, which would include contraception, abortion, and yes, IVF. The National Right to Life Committee (NRLC), an anti-abortion extremist organization, urged the Senate to adopt the Blunt Amendment to protect conscience rights. The group has advocated for so-called fetal personhood rights, which directly threatens access to IVF. Kelly Ayotte sought and earned this groups endorsement during her failed reelection campaign in 2016. It makes sense considering Ayotte spent her six years in the U.S. Senate greenlighting NRLCs agenda by pushing for a national abortion ban, attacking protections for contraception coverage, voting to defund Planned Parenthood, and calling for the end of Roe v. Wade more than a decade before the Supreme Court took up the issue and overturned 50 years of precedent. Even after leaving office, Ayotte played a crucial role in the assault on reproductive freedom. After losing her reelection campaign in 2016, Ayotte was honored to serve as the sherpa for Neil Gorsuchs U.S. Supreme Court nomination  which led to the decimation of abortion rights for millions of people and a hostile, anti-abortion majority on our countrys highest court, impacting generations of Americans to come. But, as she wrote in her op-ed, Ayotte doesnt want to talk about her past, she wants to look to the future. So lets talk about what the future of abortion would look like for Granite Staters under her leadership.Ayotte supports our states current abortion ban that has no exceptions for rape or incest, includes only a narrow exception for the pregnant person's physical health, and mandates criminal and civil penalties of up to $100,000 for health care providers, claiming she would not change it. New Hampshire remains the only state in New England without abortion rights codified into law, and will remain that way if Ayotte is our next governor, even though a supermajority of Granite Staters believe that politicians have no place in peoples personal medical decisions. She wants to leave her dangerous and extreme anti-abortion record in the past, but shes still advocating for policies that strip Granite Staters of their reproductive rights as we speak.The truth is that Kelly Ayotte has been and will always be an anti-abortion extremist, and she will continue to try to push her extreme agenda on Granite Staters who want nothing to do with it. She can write as many op-eds as shed like and keep trying to rewrite her record all she wants, but Granite Staters, who believe in privacy and the simple freedom to make their own health care decisions without politicians interfering, know the truth about Kelly Ayotte. The future of reproductive rights in New Hampshire is on the ballot this November, and those rights are at risk if Kelly Ayotte becomes our next governor. We cant let that happen.

Kayla Montgomery is Vice President of Public Affairs for the Planned Parenthood New Hampshire Action Fund.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Montgomery: Ayotte has been, will always be an anti-abortion extremist
More than 548K Louisiana families could soon lose affordable home internet access

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)  More than 548,000 Louisiana households may lose affordable internet access at the end of April, when funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program is set to expire, according to a report.

Millions of seniors, veterans and low-income Americans who depend on the ACP may be out of luck if funding for the program isnt renewed.

What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a federal program designed to help offset the cost of wireless. Originating as a pandemic-era relief program, the ACP became a permanent federal subsidy as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed in 2021, said a report from WhistleOut. The search engine is dedicated to finding services.

The ACP currently offers a $30 per month benefit for qualifying households to nullify the cost of internet, according to the report.

Low-income households can qualify in a variety of ways, including having income lower than 200% of federal poverty guidelines.

Cell phone ban in public schools bill passes Senate

How many Louisiana households could be affected?

In the report, analysts from WhistleOut looked at the ACP to find out how each U.S. state would be impacted if the program ends.

According to the report, 548,192 households in Louisiana would be affected if the ACP program were to end. To fund the ACP for another year, it would cost about $19,349,120.

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Check out the top 10 U.S. states with the largest number of ACP households that could be heavily impacted if the ACP program were to end:

1. California: 2,803,599

2. New York: 1,701,192

3. Florida: 1,685,581

4. Texas: 1,666,632

5. Ohio: 1,141,482

6. North Carolina: 889,073

7. Michigan: 887,332

8. Pennsylvania: 737,194

9. Georgia: 699,446

10. Illinois: 676,391

Latest News

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com.
Is your water system among hundreds that reported PFAS above new EPA limits? See our map.

Millions of Americans rely on drinking water systems that have recently exceeded new limits for toxic forever chemicals that the Environmental Protection Agency announced on Wednesday.

USA TODAY found 608 systems across the country that have measured PFAS, or per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, at or above the newly established limits since last year. Together, they serve nearly 35 million people.

Another 13 million people drink water from hundreds of other systems that have recently detected the chemicals at levels that require reporting to the EPA, but not quite enough to surpass the new limits, according to USA TODAYs analysis.

These results represent one-time samples, and the EPA wouldnt require water systems to make changes unless their running annual average passes the new limits.

The chemicals are nearly indestructible and have been used widely for decades in food packaging, firefighting foam, and other nonstick and water-repellent items. PFAS can eventually build up in the environment and human bodies, increasing the risk of cancer and other serious health problems.

Last year, the EPA began requiring thousands of water systems to test for more than two dozen types of PFAS, in the most widescale effort ever to track their spread across the United States.

However, USA TODAYs analysis shows more than 200 large cities systems arent yet available in the EPA data set, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Baltimore and Philadelphia. The number of affected Americans will surely grow as the EPA publishes quarterly updates to its data.

The EPA estimates the new limits could affect up to 100 million people.

Map: Where water systems reported PFAS levels above new EPA limits

This map shows water systems that tested at or above newly established PFAS limits since last year. Its based on boundaries developed by SimpleLab, a water-testing company. Click on a system to see which pollutants surpassed the limits and how much the most concentrated pollutant exceeded those levels. Dont see a map? Click here.

Among the places where data is available, USA TODAYs analysis shows large cities have exceeded PFAS limits at higher rates than smaller places. About a third of water systems serving over 100,000 people have surpassed the new limits. For the smallest systems, its 1 in 10.

Again, these results represent single points in time  in some cases just one result that passed over the new limits among several tests. For example, the EPA data shows Louisville, Kentucky, measured PFOA at about double its limit one time in the half-dozen samples reported last year.

The rule is a running annual average, and one sample doesn't dictate public health, said Kelley Dearing Smith, vice president of communications and marketing at Louisville Water Co. It's an indicator.

She pointed out that Louisvilles running average for PFOA has been 1.9 parts per trillion, below the new limit of 4.

Its the long-term trend that matters, according to David Trueba, a chemist and president of Revive Environmental, which has patented new technology to destroy PFAS.

If I go to my doctor, and he tells me I have high blood pressure, OK. Is that because he tested once? Or is it because of a monthly average over many data points? Trueba said. If (PFAS) is consistent, pervasive and concentrated, above a certain level, that's what makes the difference.

Hundreds of systems within the EPA data show the same water sampling sites exceeded the new limits across more than one test date last year.

For example, the Suffolk County Water Authority on Long Island, New York, reported one sample tested almost double the limit for the chemical PFOS in May 2023. The same wells result increased to more than four times the limit in November. The water authority took that well offline in November, Thomas Schneider, director of water quality and laboratory services for the authority, told USA TODAY after this story originally published. It's one of hundreds of wells the system uses, he said.

If we see that something's increasing, or something is at or above a level, we have to take an action. And that action, generally speaking, is removing (the well) or installing treatments, Schneider said. We're fortunate in this location of our service territory that we have other wells that meet meet all standards, so that's what we're supplying.

Across the country, in Fresno, California, the water utility found PFOS in one well seven times over the limit in March 2023 and again at 3.5 times over last September. In total, Fresno had 11 wells report multiple measurements over the new limits in the last year.

Chad Colby, water system supervisor at Fresnos department of public utilities, declined to comment.

Other water systems have told USA TODAY they suspect their recent sample results to be false positives. That can happen, Trueba said. He estimates error rates may be as high as one in every five tests. However, with the new PFAS standards, he said cities will need to plan ahead.

(Faulty tests) as an excuse is no longer going to be valid with the maximum contaminant loads, Trueba said, noting it's a best practice for cities to take multiple samples in case something goes wrong with the first test. "Instead of pulling one bottle, I should pull three.

You can't explain your way out of compliance, he added.

How much will it cost to meet PFAS rules?

There are thousands of forever chemicals, but the EPA has now put standards on six of the most common and most studied. Nearly 7,000 water systems may have to eventually take action to remove these PFAS from their water, according to EPA estimates.

Doing so isnt cheap.

Installing new equipment to get in line with the new standards could cost $3 million for a medium-sized city, Trueba estimates.

Collectively, the EPA estimates it will cost $1.5 billion per year for Americas 66,000 public drinking water systems to monitor their water for PFAS, inform customers of the results and find new sources of water or install equipment to treat their water.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included $9 billion to help places struggling with contamination from PFAS and other emerging contaminants. The law also includes $12 billion for general drinking water fixes, but Trueba said all that investment likely wont solve every communitys PFAS problem.

There is zero funding for the ongoing operations and maintenance costs associated with keeping up on this, Trueba said, noting some cities will have to raise customers rates to afford it.

In 2020, the Suffolk County Water Authority began charging customers $80 per year to help pay for PFAS treatment, Schneider said, in anticipation of new state and federal limits.

But many more utilities likely would have needed to raise rates had limits been set at levels the EPA suggested a year ago. Three of the PFAS chemicals that are harder to remove now have limits higher than originally proposed  at 10 parts per trillion, according to Shalene Thomas, a PFAS industry expert and emerging contaminants program manager at Battelle, a nonprofit research institute.

These higher numbers should reduce the total number of impacted utilities, Thomas said. It will be a small moment of relief for the water utilities to see a double-digit" limit.

How long until the EPA can issue fines for PFAS?

The PFAS limits are now official, but the EPA is rolling them out in phases over the next several years to reduce the burden on cities, many of which have limited budgets and personnel.

"We're not going to be able to react to this overnight, said Rory Jones, director of the water department in Tampa, Florida, which measured PFOS and PFOA over the new limits multiple times last year.

In 2020, the utility began piloting a water treatment technology called suspended ion exchange, the first project of its kind in the U.S.

The pilot program showed promising results, Jones said, but expanding to a full-scale system will require time and money.

"Im cautiously optimistic, Jones said, referring to the initiative.

Nearly 35 million people get their water from systems that reported high levels of PFAS in at least one test last year.

In terms of timing, water systems must complete their initial monitoring for PFAS within the next three years. Then, from 2027 to 2029, systems will continue monitoring their levels at least once annually and inform customers of the results and any violations. The EPA said they should begin looking for solutions if their levels consistently violate the new limits.

The limits can be enforced starting five years from now, but Trueba said the potential penalties for violating the limits are uncharted territory.

You have seen penalties in the past of multimillion-dollar settlements to EPA for infractions against lead  Flint, Michigan, and other places, right? Trueba said. I don't think monetary penalties are going to be at five years plus one day.

Austin Fast is a data reporter on the USA TODAY investigations team and Cecilia Garzella is a data fellow. Contact Austin at afast@usatoday.com or @a_fast on X and Cecilia at cgarzella@gannett.com or @ceciliagarzella on X.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: PFAS forever chemicals topped new EPA limits. Is yours on our map?
More coal and cargo heading to Hampton Roads two weeks after Baltimore bridge collapse

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  Two weeks following the closure of the Port of Baltimore due to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, its clear Hampton Roads is playing a major role in keeping not only the supply chain moving, but also in the cleanup efforts themselves.

While the temporary relocation of Maryland-based Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise ship operations to Norfolk may serve as the most high-profile display of the regions ability to quickly come to the aid of its fellow maritime community, its far from the only example.

In fact, when it comes to cargo, two weeks after the bridges tumble, the true effects are beginning to be seen on the waterfront.

Third channel to open at Baltimore port as recovery from bridge collapse continues

We are seeing an increase in cargo for sure, Joe Harris, a spokesperson for the Port of Virginia said Wednesday.

In the hours just after the collapse, Gov. Glenn Youngkin was quick to announce that the port would be assisting by offloading cargo initially bound for Baltimore. However, at the time, nobody was exactly sure what the amount of additional volume would look like.

The Port of Virginia primarily deals in containers, and it far surpasses the annual processing completed in Baltimore when it comes to TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent unit), Harris said.

Still, there has been an increase in Maryland truckers rolling up to the gates to retrieve the Baltimore-destined containers that have been handled. Hours for trucks at the terminals have been extended to accommodate the extra traffic.

We knew we would have to make adjustments and we will, Harris said.

Kim Brown, a longshoreman with the International Longshoremens Association who also serves on the Norfolk Economic Development Authority, told her fellow directors Wednesday that the uptick in activity since the bridge collapse really became noticeable this week.

Yesterday, the drive into the port was a mess because of the increase in truckers, Brown said. We are getting seven shipping lines coming to us with Baltimores containers on it.

Construction machinery initially destined for Baltimore awaits trucks at Newport News Marine Terminal (WAVY Photo/Chris Wynn)

Construction machinery initially destined for Baltimore awaits trucks at Newport News Marine Terminal (WAVY Photo/Chris Wynn)

John Deere front end loaders sit in Newport News Marine terminal after coming off a ship initially destined for Baltimore (WAVY Photo/Chris Wynn)

Construction machinery initially destined for Baltimore awaits trucks at Newport News Marine Terminal (WAVY Photo/Chris Wynn)

But its not just containers.

Over at Newport News Marine Terminal, dozens of large farm and construction equipment now sit in the yard waiting to be picked up by flatbed trucks.

Baltimore handles more of whats known as roll-on/roll-off farm and construction machinery than any other U.S. port, according to the Maryland Port Administration.

Harris said while the Port of Virginia doesnt have the infrastructure Baltimore does for roll-on/roll-off, NNMT is designed for bulk cargo.

A line of loaded coal cars can be seen prominently next to I-664 in Newport News (WAVY Photo/Chris Wynn)

The pace of work at the neighboring Dominion Terminal, Kinder Morgan Pier IXs and Norfolk Southerns Lambert Point terminal has increased as well due to additional coal trains rolling into town, according to David White, executive director of the Virginia Maritime Association.

The three terminals together export more coal than any other location in the United States. Last year 35.5 million short tons left the docks of Hampton Roads, most headed for India, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The Port of Baltimore is the nations No. 2 export hub for coal, according to the EIA, comprising 28% of exports.

With its closure now expected to continue through late May, EIA reduced their forecast for U.S. coal exports by more than 30% in April and 20% in May.

While neither Dominion Terminal nor Kindeer Morgan would comment on if theyve seen an increase in tonnage to Newport News, Norfolk Southern confirmed that a Baltimore-destined vessel diverted to Norfolk for the first time last week.

At Norfolk Southern, we understand the importance of rapid response, frequent communication, and innovative solutions during significant supply chain events, Ed Elkins, the railroads executive vice president and chief marketing officer said in a release. Leveraging our extensive franchise footprint and strategic partnerships with ocean carriers, short line railroads, East Coast ports, and other transportation providers, we are providing our customers with a flexible, reliable service product that they can count on in this time of need.

The CEO of CSX, the railroad serving the Peninsula terminal, recently visited Newport News to explore alternative transportation solutions for our customers, according to a spokesperson.

The Samson crane and Huntsman tugboat from Portsmouth-based CROFTON are moored in the Patapsco River in sight of the Francis Scott Key bridge wreckage (Courtesy: Mark Hergan/Deadrise Marine Photography)

But the men and women who work the waterfront in Tidewater arent only assisting in Virginia, two companies have responded in person with equipment to Baltimore.

Both Norfolk-based Seaward Marine Corporation and Portsmouth-based CROFTON Industries have sent cranes, barges and tugs up the Chesapeake Bay to assist in the massive salvage operation.

While neither company responded to 10 On Your Sides inquiry for additional information by deadline, Mark Hergan of Deadrise Marine Photography has been documenting their work.

Hergan has captured several intimate photos of the massive and dangerous undertaking.

Employees of Norfolk-based Seaward Marine pose for a picture while responding to the Francis Scott Key Bridge salvage operation (Courtesy: Mark Hergan / Deadrise Marine Photography)

White said he is not certain if Hampton Roads is the region responding in more ways than any other in Baltimores time of need. He does acknowledge, however, he is proud of how many people are stepping up.

He said that is what always happens.

Its not a competitive mindset, White said. This is where we all work together to keep things moving.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
PYONGYANG, April 12 (Xinhua) -- It has always been the steadfast strategic policy of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government to safeguard, solidify and develop China-DPRK traditional friendly cooperation, Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, said here on Friday.

Zhao, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the "China-DPRK Friendship Year."

China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) officially established diplomatic relations 75 years ago, opening a new era in the history of the two parties and two countries, he said.

Looking back, the two sides shared weal and woe and fought together, forging a great militant friendship through blood, said Zhao, adding that the two sides have been trusting each other and standing together through thick and thin to cement and develop the socialist cause in the two countries.

The top leaders of the two parties and two countries have held five historic meetings and maintained close communication through letters and phone calls, advancing China-DPRK relations into a new historical period, he said.

The continuous progress of exchanges and cooperation between the two countries has vigorously promoted the cause of socialism, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples and making major contributions to regional peace and stability, Zhao said.

Under the new circumstances in the new era, China is pleased with the fruitful results achieved in the development of China-DPRK relations, Zhao said.

China and the DPRK are good neighbors, good friends and good comrades, he said, adding that both sides are united with sincerity and have been supporting each other in safeguarding the common interests of the two countries as well as international equity and justice. 
Thomson employees are upset about losing a retention bonus. Our Quad Cities News has been reporting on staff shortages at Thomson prison for several months now. Union leaders blame the decision to end bonuses late last year for contributing to the problem.

Union leadership tells Our Quad Cities News another employee gave a two weeks notice, and they expect another 17 to leave soon as well. Thomson has the most open positions of any federal correctional facility  that number is up to 122.

(bop.gov)

The retention bonuses were approved in 2021. They added up to about $16,000 a year. Union leaders say it kept up morale and kept people interested in those jobs in a rural area of the state where its difficult to get people to move to. Union leaders have some support from lawmakers for getting the bonus back but so far, its not paid off.

Lack of safety, lack of programs. Our job just isnt just to warehouse people, its to rehabilitate them and without the staff were not able to do that. Thats why we take this seriously because we need the staff here at Thomson, said Jon Zumkehr, president of Local 4070, representing employees at the United States Penitentiary Thomson in Illinois. The majority of them come from the local community, he added.

We still have a problem across the country in many areas particularly in rural counties where we have facilities and its tough to attract workers to come to them, said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Illinois). Were going to continue that effort. Some incentives have to be offered to employees to come to work there and I think its well worth while to do that.

Weve also learned a new bill creating new rules for federal prison oversight was introduced in Congress on Wednesday. It has been referred to a house committee for study. Our Quad Cities News will track the bill as details develop. You can find more information about that bill here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
The Defense Department is moving extra troops and equipment to sites in the Middle East amid reports of a potential attack by Iran on Israel, officials confirmed on Friday.

A defense official said the deployments are designed to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for U.S. forces. The department did not release any information on the number of troops involved or the assets being directed to the area.

Earlier in the day, White House national security spokesman John Kirby similarly declined to give specifics about U.S. military posture changes in the region but said that administration officials are monitoring the situation closely.

We have deemed the potential threat by Iran here to be real, to be viable, he said. Right now our focus is on having conversations with our Israeli counterparts to make sure that they have what they need and that theyre able to defend themselves.

US troop numbers in Eastern Europe could continue to grow

Kirby said that work includes making sure U.S. troops in the region are properly prepared if an attack occurs.

The U.S. has about 40,000 military personnel deployed throughout the Middle East right now. About 1,000 more are headed to the area to help construct a floating pier off the coast of Gaza to help with the delivery of humanitarian aid there.

In January, three U.S. soldiers were killed and 40 others injured when a drone controlled by Iran-backed militants struck their base in Jordan.

The potential Iranian action comes almost two weeks after a suspected Israeli military strike on an Iranian diplomatic building in Damascus. The attack killed several Iranian military leaders in Syria as well as key Hezbollah leaders.

On Friday, in response to reporters questions about the possibility of Iranian military action, President Joe Biden said that the United States is devoted to the defense of Israel and reiterated that we will support Israel and help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.

Reporter Noah Robertson contributed to this report.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Memphis woman has been charged after her son was accused of firing shots at two people while on school grounds.

Deborah Rawls, 35, is facing several charges, including two counts of attempted first-degree murder, reckless endangerment, and carrying a weapon on school property.

According to court documents, Memphis Police responded to Trezevant High School at 4:30 p.m. on March 22. A Memphis-Shelby County Schools officer reportedly told police that a student had fired shots at two people while on school grounds.

17-year-old charged with murder in deaths of two teens

Court documents say the student and the victims had gotten into a physical fight in class earlier in the day. After the fight, the students mother, identified as Rawls, reportedly checked him out of school.

According to court documents, surveillance footage shows that the student and Rawls returned to the school and waited for the victims to be dismissed. Surveillance video reportedly shows the student confronting the victims with the handgun before firing shots.

School security guards reportedly chased Rawls and her son off the property. Court documents say they were seen fleeing the scene in a black sedan.

According to court documents, Rawls never contacted the police about the fight or the shooting.

Rawls and her son were reportedly taken into custody at a home on Wingate Street Thursday. Officers reportedly found a black handgun in her sons room.

No bond has been set for Rawls at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
At the naturalization ceremony here each spring in the federal courthouse, a solemn and yet spirited event where new citizens are minted, those gathered sing God Bless America and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. One year, an especially patriotic fellow showed up dressed as Benjamin Franklin.

Other times, the chief U.S. District judge presiding has joked that the event is one of only two occasions when everyone leaves court happy. (The other is at courthouse marriages when, as the judge put it, we hope everybodys happy.)

At Wednesdays annual citizenship ceremony, 22 people from 15 nations were sworn in.

Red-white-and-blue cake was served. Miniature American flags were doled out.

One of those star-spangled pennants caught the fancy of an 8-year-old girl from South America named Zara Montano.

Zara was born in 2016 while her mother was a refugee in Ecuador, having fled violence in her Pacific-port hometown during what at the time was perhaps the deadliest region in her mothers native Colombia.

Now here Zara was twirling in her fingers the tiny banner of a new land.

In an era when the debate over immigration, particularly unlawful border crossings, has been more heated and politicized, Wednesdays assembly was an august, unifying scene.

Each of you, Judge Marc T. Treadwell proclaimed, is admitted as a citizen of the United States with all the privileges and responsibilities associated with such privileges. Congratulations.

For Zaras mother, Karen Caicedo, 32, the bloodshed in Buenaventura, Colombia, a decade ago left her no choice but to seek a life in another country.

She recalls a lot of guns and how, back then, you cant go outside.

She and her husband, Javier Montano, and their infant son, Enzo, spent two and a half years in a rented house in neighboring Ecuador. Conditions there were not much better. But a flight to the U.S. in 2017 with help from a Lutheran organization landed Caicedo and her children in Jacksonville, Florida. Her husband stayed behind but came to the States in 2019.

By then, Caicedo had moved to Georgia and a Christian service community a dozen miles northeast of Athens known as Jubilee Partners.

She was at first wary of the woods, the rural countryside, and wanted to go back home. But after one night, Caicedo said, I was happy to be there.

Over that past 40-plus years, the place in Madison County has been home to 4,000 or so people from 35 countries.

The people there are dedicated to serving recently arrived refugees and immigrants, said Angie Martin, a friend of Caicedos who was a Jubilee volunteer when Caicedo and her children arrived. Many families or single mothers come and spend a few months or a year there. They get English classes and help with going to doctors appointments and all the getting-situated things that are necessary. And then they eventually move somewhere else once they kind of have their sea legs.

According to most recent U.S. naturalization figures, during a 12-month span that ended in September, nearly 879,000 people became citizens at ceremonies similar to the one in Macon on Wednesday. Of those, nearly 55% were women, and the largest age group among those women were, like Caicedo, in their 30s.

Caicedo was also part of the smallest group of admission classifications: refugees, who comprised about 3% of new citizens in the last year for which statistics are available.

She has earned a GED diploma, learned to speak English and she now works as an interpreter.

On Wednesday, Caicedo said she was just happy to get this step as a citizen and move forward.

Half an hour after she took the Oath of Allegiance, with daughter Zara at her side in the rear of the courtroom, Caicedo pondered her journey.

Not only was she now a citizen, so were her children.

And, Zara, still clutching that flag, said, on July Fourth there will be a parade.
Motorcyclist will never walk again after brakes failed, lawyers say. Now he wins $20M

A man riding a Suzuki motorcycle tried braking when a vehicle merged in front of him at a Florida intersection, but his front brakes failed to slow him down, according to his attorneys.

The experienced motorcyclist, Scott Winckler, crashed into the SUV in Jacksonville on June 16, 2013  and was left permanently paralyzed below his waist, documents filed in Floridas 4th Judicial Circuit court say.

Winckler sued Suzuki Motor Corporation, arguing his 2007 Suzuki GSX R-1000 motorcycle had a defective front braking system, and the case went to trial. Suzuki never warned that the models brakes could fail but knew of the motorcycles defects before Wincklers accident, according to his lawsuit.

Nearly 11 years later, a Duval County jury awarded Winckler $20 million on April 10 for his injuries, according to a news release from Morgan & Morgan, the law firm representing him.

Before the crash, Mr. Winckler was an active, independent person and an avid motorcycle enthusiast.  Now he will never walk again, let alone ride, said Morgan & Morgan attorneys Mike Morgan, Joshua Moore, Keith Mitnik and Harris Yegelwel.

Winckler has been fighting for justice for over ten years, during which Suzuki relentlessly tried to blame him for his injuries, the attorneys said in a statement.

Suzuki and attorneys representing the company didnt immediately respond to requests for comment from McClatchy News on April 12.

Suzuki denied that Wincklers motorcycle was defective and argued that his front brake master cylinder was fully functional and did not cause the crash, court documents show.

According to Wincklers legal counsel, the front brake cylinders brake piston had corroded, causing the brakes to fail. Specifically, it resulted in a reduction of fluid pressure transmission and reduced the motorcycles braking power, Morgan & Morgan said in the release.

Suzuki issues a recall after the crash

In 2007, an issue with the same Suzuki motorcycle model in Germany alerted the company to the brake systems defects, but no recall was issued, according to Wincklers counsel.

In 2012, a motorcyclist crashed their Suzuki due to the vehicles loss of front braking power, Morgan & Morgan said.

Suzuki didnt recall its motorcycle models until a few months after Wincklers crash, a notice issued by the company in October 2013 shows.

The recall notice warned of an increased crash risk related to the front brake master cylinder of Suzuki motorcycle models GSX-R600 and GSX-R750 from 2004 to 2013, and the GSX-R1000 models from 2005 to 2013  including Wincklers from 2007.

The $20 million awarded to Winckler is for prior medical expenses, future medical expenses, and pain and suffering, according to Morgan & Morgan.

Were pleased that the jury saw the pain hes experienced and vindicated him by awarding him every penny that he deserves, his attorneys said.

Beach house left leaning on neighbors homes after Florida storm. Now theyre suing

Toddler was able to start defective Tesla and crashed into pregnant mom, lawsuit says

Man died after using kratom sold at smoke shop, attorneys say. Family suing for $10M
How much prison time do New Mexicos incarcerated actually serve behind bars?

NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  In New Mexico, criminals are sentenced according to statutory requirements as well as judges discretion. Offenders can also earn sentence reductions for good behavior. So, how much time do prisoners actually serve in the state?

New research from the New Mexico Sentencing Commission looked at data from prisoners released during fiscal year 2023 to determine how good behavior  called earned meritorious deductions  impacted actual sentences. They looked at 255 male offenders sentenced for a range of crimes.

APD report shows details on 60 uses of force last month

The data revealed that serious violent offenders with basic sentences served about 89.3% of their total sentence. Those offenders were eligible to receive four days of earned deductions for every 30 days served.

Likewise, parole violators served 87% of their total sentences, the report shows. That does not include people serving parole behind bars.

While the data shows that many prisoners were released before serving their full sentence, that is not out of the ordinary. The New Mexico Sentencing Commission notes that due to the way good behavior deductions work in New Mexico, most serious violent offenders should only have to serve about 87% of their prison sentence if they earn good time. Non-serious offenders should only have to serve about 50% of their prison sentence, the commission notes.

Incarcerated individuals can earn good time deductions through the completion of substance abuse programs, completing mental health programs, getting an educational degree, completing a vocational training program, achieving heroic deeds, and actively participating in programs recommended by their supervisor. State law places limits on how many deductions prisoners can earn, and prisoners with a life sentence without the possibility of release or parole do not earn deductions as general prisoners do.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Multi-vehicle crash on Highway 412 in Madison County cleared

UPDATE: ARDOT says the crash has been cleared.

HINDSVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A multi-vehicle accident blocks traffic on Highway 412 near Hindsville on April 12.

According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation, the crash impacts all lanes headed west at the intersection of Highway 45.

ARDOT says there have been injuries reported.

Updates on this crash and other traffic can be found on iDrive Arkansas.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
One dead and more than a dozen injured after driver rams stolen 18 wheeler into Texas office

A stolen tractor-trailer rammed into a Texas public safety office, leaving one dead and at least a dozen injured.

The suspect had allegedly stolen the 18-wheeler across from the Department of Public Safety office in Brenham just before 12.30pm on Friday, with deputies chasing the vehicle before it ploughed into the office which issues drivers licences.

Clenard Parker, 42, from Chapel Hill, had been to the office on Thursday, officials said at a briefing a couple of hours after the crash.

While he was there, the divers licence staff did advise Parker that he was not eligible to renew his commercial drivers licence, Sergeant Justin Ruiz told reporters, adding that the reason for that was under investigation.

After crashing the vehicle into the building, injuring all 14 people inside, officials said Mr Parker pulled away from the building and appeared to be redying to strike again.

Brenham mayor Atwood C. Kenjura thanked first responders for preventing further tragedy.

Our fire chief mentioned that if [the suspect] had veered a little bit to the left a second time, there would have been a collapse of that building, the mayor said.

Texas state Sen Lois Kolkhorst, who represents Brenham, called the incident an intentional, criminal act after speaking to law enforcement officials.

That office right there is something known to the mayor and I and everyone in Brenham, the Senator told reporters. Weve taken our children to get their drivers licence there, Ive gotten my drivers licence there. Its a place of public service.

She then thanked law enforcement for doing everything they could to respond to the incident.

The suspect has been arrested, DPS said, adding there is no further threat to the community.

Senator Kolkhorst said that the suspect would be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Three people were reported to be in critical condition and four others suffered serious injuries, while eight received treatment at the scene.

Mr Parker faces multiple felony offences.
An aerial drone photo taken on April 12, 2024 shows passengers at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Yang Yongquan/Xinhua)

VIENTIANE, April 12 (Xinhua) -- People and businesses across Laos are preparing to celebrate the traditional Lao New Year when many provinces will hold a wide range of activities.

The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar and also a time of endless fun for Laotians. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18.

"I believe that this year will be much more fun than usual because many activities are organizing across the country and we are all getting a long holiday," Soudthida Navamminh, a 21-year-old woman living in the Lao capital Vientiane told Xinhua on Friday.

Khamkeo Baiyavanh, a 31-year-old man from northern Laos' Luang Prabang province, said that he will go back to his hometown during the holiday.

"During the Lao New Year, I will go to several temples to pray and sprinkle water over Buddha images. I also plan to have a small party with my friends and family."

The celebration of the holiday is expected to have a positive impact on the domestic economy.

Markets have made extensive preparations to cope with the extra demand over the holiday and have introduced measures to regulate the price of goods, ensuring that traders do not raise prices arbitrarily.

Saysamone, a butcher shop owner, told Xinhua that his shop is fully stocked with a wide range of products to meet the needs of shoppers.

Saysamone said that his shop is ready to provide clean and safe meat for society during the holiday.

In addition, public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year.

Station manager for the Southern Bus Station in Vientiane Souksavath Sisouk said that extra buses will be put into service to cope with the high volume of passengers over the Lao New Year holiday.

Moreover, the Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. (LCRC) will provide extra train services from April 12 to 19 between Vientiane and the Luang Prabang province. It is anticipated that travels on this route will reach peak levels as the northern province is the most popular destination during the holiday.

Laos' Ministry of Public Security has planned to deploy more than 700 traffic police officers to over 100 intersections across Vientiane to ensure peace and order along public roads during the Lao New Year celebration in mid-April. 

Passengers are seen at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 11, 2024. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Passengers are seen at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 13, 2024. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on April 12, 2024 shows passengers at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Yang Yongquan/Xinhua)

Passengers are pictured at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 13, 2024. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Passengers are seen at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 11, 2024. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Passengers are seen at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 13, 2024. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Wen Yonghua/Xinhua)

Passengers are seen at the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 11, 2024. The Lao New Year is the most important festival in the Lao calendar. This year's holiday for celebrations runs from April 13 to 18. Public transportation is expected to see a travel peak during the period before and after the Lao New Year. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)
April 12 (UPI) -- One person is dead and at least 13 are injured after a stolen 18-wheeler crashed into a Texas Department of Public Safety building Friday, authorities said.

Police arrested a 42-year-old suspect who they say had been denied a commercial drivers license.

One person was confirmed dead in the incident that took place at the Brenham DPS office. Earlier in the afternoon, the department said there were reports of "multiple serious injuries" at the office. Brenham is northwest of Houston.

Officials at a press conference said multiple people were injured. Three were flown to the hospital in critical condition.

Two people were taken by ambulance to the hospital in stable condition. Others were treated on the scene for minor injuries.

Police arrested 42-year-old Clenard Parker, who they said is the driver of the reportedly stolen vehicle. He was taken into custody on the scene.

Law enforcement officials said Parker intentionally crashed into the DPS office after the location on Thursday denied him a commercial drivers license.

Clenard has two prior charges of criminal trespassing and one charge of arson, authorities said.

Texas Rangers are leading the investigation, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

DPS asked the public to avoid the area as investigators and medical personnel continue their response.
(BCN)  A Richmond man suspected in a drive-by shooting that killed a man in San Franciscos Mission District last week is facing a murder charge, prosecutors said. Alexander Martinez, 30, was charged with murder, shooting from a vehicle and being in possession of a loaded, concealed gun, among other things, according to the San Francisco District Attorneys Office.

A little before 1:40 p.m. last Friday, Martiez shot the man  identified by the San Francisco Medical Examiners Office as 23-year-old Alberto Rafael Vargas Quero  in the 2300 block of Mission Street, police said.

146 pounds of marijuana, $104K cash seized after search warrant served at San Jose home

Quero died at the scene and Martinez was arrested at about 10:30 p.m. the same day in Richmond, police said.

This shooting has shaken the Mission District, and my office will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served to the victim and the community in this case, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said in a news release Thursday.

Martinez, who is still in custody, is scheduled for an arraignment on April 17 at San Franciscos Hall of Justice. If hes convicted of all charges, Martinez faces a possible sentence of life in prison, according to prosecutors.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the SFPD tip line at (415) 575-4444 or to text a tip to TIP411 and begin the text message with SFPD.

Copyright  2024 Bay City News, Inc.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WKRN)  Murfreesboro detectives are encouraging any potential victims to come forward in a child rape case involving a minister who reportedly preached across the country, including in Tennessee.

Benjamin Sean Garlick, 32, was arrested in September last year after being charged with several counts of aggravated rape and sexual battery. However, Murfreesboro Police said he was reindicted by a Rutherford County Grand Jury in March and now faces additional charges.

PREVIOUS: Traveling pastor facing child rape charges, indicted in Murfreesboro

The charges against him include seven counts of aggravated rape of a child, six counts of aggravated sexual battery, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of violation of the child protection act.

He was served with the indictment in jail, police reported. Authorities said Benjamin Garlick spent several years as a traveling minister and focused on connecting with the Hispanic community.

Shaantal Garlick (Courtesy: MPD)

Benjamin Garlick (Courtesy: MPD)

Following his arrest last year, News 2 reached out to a church that offers bilingual services in Lenoir City. The church said Benjamin Garlick had spoken there at least once a year.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

He reportedly traveled with his wife, 30-year-old Shaantal Garlick, who is also facing more charges after being reindicted, including two counts of facilitation of aggravated rape of a child and two counts of aggravated child neglect.

She made bond last year and was rearrested last month after being served with the new indictment. However, as of Friday, April 12, authorities said Shaantal Garlick was already free again after posting another $75,000 bond.

Benjamin Garlick remains in the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center on a $825,000 bond. Both he and his wife are scheduled to appear in court for an arraignment hearing on the new charges on Monday, April 15.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The full number of victims, how the couple knew them, or when the alleged rapes occurred is still unclear. Special Victims Unit detectives are urging anyone, particularly those in the Hispanic community, who believes they could be a victim to come forward.

Potential victims can contact Detective James Wilkinson at 629-201-5612 or email 0846@murfreesborotn.gov.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
I was listening to NPR, watching my kids swim in the bay, their shining heads bobbing in the light-studded water when I heard the news about the tragic death of Nex Benedict. I felt grief and a sadly familiar hand of fear pressing down on my chest.

I searched the Internet to see if it related to religion, and it did, but not in the way I expected.

I feared that, like me and most queer people I know, Nex was raised in a religious home and made to feel shame about who they were. What I found instead was, in the wake of their death, the states anti-trans and anti-queer legislation was under scrutiny, and among the laws targeting queer kids is one that prohibits discrimination against religious organizations that adopt and enact anti-queer policies.

Nex Benedict non binary student bullied beaten classmates Owasso High School Oklahoma

Courtesy Kasandra Phelps via GoFundMe

Its like the seven degrees of separation game. Still, with religion  where you find one of us dead, you wont have to look far to find a connection to religion. Specifically, a religion that finds something unnatural and wrong about perfectly natural things. However, these organizations have claimed the right to define morality for all of us. And they want the law to protect them in that claim.

This idea that an organization is being mistreated if it is asked not to discriminate against people is near the heart of a phenomenon known as religious trauma. The term was coined in 2011 when a psychologist, Marlene Winell, used it to describe what happens to people who are raised in religious environments that cause them to feel shame about who they are.

Queer kids in religious environments kill themselves at a rate four times that of their straight siblings in the same environment. Similarly, one in three adults in the United States live with the effects of some form of religious trauma.

I was raised Presbyterian and went to church every Sunday with my family. I preferred my brothers hand-me-down clothes to my sisters, and I liked to keep my hair short. Like the boys, I also enjoyed riding my bike shirtless in the summer. The warm summer air and the suns kiss on my skin didnt seem like gifts I should be denied because I was what the world called female.

I was mistaken for a boy often, even in church, and I realized that I enjoyed it when people saw me that way. Trying on the skin of a boy, it fit better. In it, I could be unabashed about my feelings for girls. Such feelings were normal and expected of all boys. But as I grew into my womans body, I couldnt disguise myself in the same way anymore, and the embarrassed feeling returned.

presbyterian church stained glass windows

Shutterstock

When I realized I was gay, I was about seventeen. I told my pastor. At the time, I was a deacon in the church, and the Presbyterian Church had recently adopted a law stating that no gay or lesbian person could hold office in a church. I asked him about this. He responded, Personally, I would never ask anybody, and you dont have to tell me. During that time, Clinton was president and had enacted the controversial Dont ask, Dont tell policy for military personnel. This was the best my pastor could do, even after being in the room where I was born, seeing me come of age, and claiming to know and love me like a father. It wasnt enough. Not for me. I left the church.

A few years passed when I didnt have a spiritual path, and I missed it, but I also knew that Christianity wasnt for me. Fathers and sons could relate, maybe, but I didnt fit into either of those categories. Nor did I fit neatly into the role assigned to women. The missing of a spiritual path propelled me to start my tour of world religions. I read about every religion I could find, attended a service for it, and found that each was the same story with different characters. Or the same characters but with different names.

Buddhism was the religion I enjoyed the most and felt the most unique about. But even there, the Buddha was a man, and the doctrine shared the same fatal flaw as all other religions: the objective line it draws between right and wrong. How does it impose what is right and what is wrong onto me versus allowing me to decide for myself through experience? And how does each dictate precisely what form my connection to the beyond should take?

Although the one conversation that alienated me from my childhood religion and church is all I vividly remember, I know there were many other words, expressions, body language, conduction, radiation, and sheer osmosis that caused the shame to leach its way into my thinking apparatus, infecting the roots of my thoughts with false truths. As though Id been hypnotized. As though the message that my queer self is inherently wrong had been playing on a transistor radio implanted in the back of my head, volume low, since birth. So much so that the sustained effort required to override and reframe such thinking always leaves me mildly anxious and exhausted. When I was 21, for example, a girlfriend told me she didnt believe in Jesus Christ and thought he probably never even existed. I felt afraid for her soul at that moment because not only was she going to burn in hell for being gay, but for denying the existence of God.

Two years later, I found a spiritual path in recovery that was grounded in tangible things like my biological system and its ability to heal, given time and proper conditions autonomously. It was like the back of a single leaf with its network of veins, perfect symmetry, and tremendous beauty. Multiply that by billions and look up at a light-pollution-free night sky; there you will have it: my final religion.

colorful coral reef fish snorkling

Shutterstock

Decades later, I was snorkeling, slipping weightless through spaces not native to me, feeling the impossible history there, the density when hydrogen doubles its binding to oxygen, lubricating my passage in this deadly place, this cathedral of filtered, fluid light, and I thought of how this splendor layered with lethal points to the truth of it all. The light gets its magic from the dark. In contrast, the totality of this relative place jumbled together, making patterns. Or when hiking, the sunlight filtered through the trees, breaks apart, and dances like so many fairies the same way it does across the choral and the ocean floor.

These vivid moments in nature is my church  they touch upon origins. My own earliest memories swim together in a bright place.

I am a mother now, and my co-parents are also queer, and we raise our children secularly. Some stubborn stuck childhood wound in me still believes I shouldnt, that I wronged them by not baptizing and giving them a religion. But then Im reminded about the healing light of truth, the brightness and softness, and the feeling of reaching out from within a place of containment.

I want their religion to be that way. One that inspires a sense of magic, wonder, and awe. It leaves them feeling, if only fleetingly and in moments, impossibly safe and unconditionally held in perfect acceptance as by water.

Elizabeth Earley is the author of two novels: A Map of Everything, a debut finalist for the Lambda Literary Prize; and Like Wings, Your Hands, winner of the Womens Prose Prize Prize (judged by Aimee Bender), the American Fiction Prize for Best LGBTQ novel, and a finalist for the Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBTQ Fiction by the Publishing Triangle. Like and follow them on Instagram @elearley77.

Have an inspiring personal story to tell? Want to share an opinion on an issue? Learn more by visiting advocate.com/submit.
Three men stranded on an uninhabited Pacific island survived for more than a week and used palm fronds to spell out HELP on the beach, leading to their rescue by Navy and Coast Guard aviators who spotted the sign from several thousand feet in the air.

They had embarked March 31 in a 20-foot boat with an outboard motor from Pulawat Atoll, a small island with about an estimated 1,000 inhabitants in the Federated States of Micronesia about 1,800 miles (3,000 kilometers) east of the Philippines.

The men were fishing when they hit a coral reef, putting a hole in the boats bottom and causing it to take on water, Lt. Keith Arnold said in a Coast Guard video.

A Coast Guard ship, the Oliver Henry, picked up the men Tuesday and took them back to the atoll where they had set out nine days earlier and 100 miles (160 kilometers) away, according to the statement.

They were obviously very excited to be reunited with their families, Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Christine Igisomar, a coordinator of the search and rescue mission, said in a Coast Guard video.

When their boat was damaged, they knew they werent going to be able to make their return home and would need to beach their vessel, said Arnold.

On April 6, a relative reported them missing to a Coast Guard facility in Guam, saying the men in their 40s had not returned from Pikelot Atoll. A search initially covering 78,000 square miles (200,000 square kilometers) began.

The crew of a U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon plane from Kadena Air Force Base in Japan spotted the three on Pikelot and dropped survival packages. The next day, a Coast Guard HC-130J Hercules plane from Air Station Barbers Point in Hawaii dropped a radio the men used to report they were thirsty but all right, Arnold said.

The help sign was pretty visible. We could see it from a couple thousand feet in the air, Arnold said.

A similar rescue of three men from Pulawat Atoll happened on Pikelot Atoll in 2020. Those men spelled out SOS on the beach.

An Australian military helicopter crew landed and gave them food and water before a Micronesian patrol vessel could pick them up.
WASHINGTON  A member of a neo-Nazi group pleaded guilty to Capitol riot charges Thursday, admitting he threw a water bottle at police during the brutal battle at the lower west tunnel and stole a police helmet as a "war trophy" during the Jan. 6 attack.

Richard Zachary Ackerman pleaded guilty to two charges: obstructing law enforcement officers during civil disorder and theft of government property. He had initially faced three additional charges: assault, resist, oppose, impede with a person engaged in performance of official duties; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; and disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds. Those charges will be dismissed under a plea agreement.

Richard Zachary Ackerman at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (U.S. District Court)

In the court filing Thursday, Ackerman admitted bragging that he stole a SWAT team officer's helmet, which he labeled a "war trophy." The FBI said it had received a tip that included a photo of a U.S. Capitol Police helmet that included a "New England 131" sticker on it on Jan. 8, 2021, two days after the attack.

An FBI task force officer said "New England131" referred to the "Nationalist Socialist Club 131" and the "White Defense Force" and described NSC-131 as "a neo-Nazi group with small, autonomous regional chapters in the United States and abroad, whose members see themselves as soldiers at war with a hostile, Jewish-controlled system that is deliberately plotting the extinction of the white race."

A confidential FBI human source attended a 2021 meeting with members of NSC-131, where a member known online as "Zach Parker" talked about being at the Capitol on Jan. 6 and said he still had the helmet at his residence, according to the FBI task force officer.

Richard Zachary Ackerman wearing the U.S. Capitol Police helmet. (U.S. District Court)

Ackerman flew to Germany in July 2021 and was subject to a secondary inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, according to the FBI. Agents who searched his phone said they found conversations in which Ackerman bragged about being at the Capitol. One person he spoke with told him to go home and not to get arrested, saying Ackerman "won't be able to be a Marine" if he was arrested. (Jan. 6 rioters James Mault and Aiden Bilyard joined the military after they took part in the attack, while numerous other rioters were active-duty members of the military when they took part in the riot.)

In 2022, agents obtained a search warrant for Ackerman's residence, spoke with a man who identified himself as Ackerman's father and found a Capitol Police helmet in the fireplace of his basement bedroom, the FBI said.

Richard Zachary Ackerman, right, wearing the U.S. Capitol Police helmet at the Capitol riots in 2021. (U.S. District Court)

Ackerman was first arrested in New Hampshire in June and has been on pretrial release ever since. He will remain on release until at least his sentencing before U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly, which is scheduled for July 25.

As NBC News reported, out of more than 1,380 Jan. 6 defendants, just 15 are being held in pretrial detention at the order of a federal judge. All other Jan. 6 rioters behind bars are there because they either admitted in court that they engaged in criminal activity on Jan. 6 or because judges or unanimous juries found them to have committed crimes.

Prosecutors have secured convictions against an estimated 984 defendants so far, and hundreds of additional rioters have been identified by online "sedition hunters" but not yet arrested. Of the roughly 859 defendants who have been sentenced, about 520 have been given at least some period of incarceration, according to the Justice Department, with sentences from a few days behind bars to 22 years in prison.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Mr Stuart says he will be standing again as the MP for Beverley and Holderness at the next general election, which he said he looks 'forward to fighting and winning'.

Net Zero minister Graham Stuart has quit his Cabinet role to focus on his constituency ahead of the upcoming election, he has announced.

Mr Stuart, who has served on the front bench for much of the last eight years, said that he will continue to give Rishi Sunak full support from the backbenches as he steps down from his post as energy security and net zero minister to concentrate on local issues.

But he says that he will be standing again as the MP for Beverley and Holderness at the next general election, which he told the Prime Minister he looks forward to fighting and winning.

Andrew Mitchell has been named Deputy Foreign Secretary while Justin Tomlinson will take over as energy minister in a mini-reshuffle after Graham Stuart announced he was standing down from the role.

Downing Street said Foreign Office minister Mr Mitchell has been given the honorific title on Friday.

Energy Minister Graham Stuart's resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

Mims Davies, former parliamentary under secretary of state at the Department for Work and Pensions, has replaced Mr Tomlinson as minister for disabled people, health and work, Downing Street said.

It comes after a seat-by-seat poll by YouGov predicted last week that the Yorkshire constituency would fall to Labour at the next election, after Mr Stuart won it by a 20,000-strong majority in 2019.

Continue to give full support

In a letter to Mr Sunak, Mr Stuart said: Having served as a minister for most of the last eight years I have decided that now is the time to stand down. I intend to continue serving my constituents in Beverley & Holderness, campaigning on local issues and look forward to fighting and winning the seat later this year.

He added: I will continue to give you my full support from the backbenches and will be forever grateful for the opportunity you gave me to serve as a member of your ministerial team.

Responding to Mr Stuart, Mr Sunak said: I understand your desire to step down as a Minister. These jobs are all-consuming and you have served in Government almost continuously since 2016.

He added: I know you are a committed environmentalist and that you have brought that passion to your role as Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero.

You can be proud of the role you have played in getting the UK halfway to Net Zero, having reduced our emissions further and faster than any other major economy.

In a letter to Mr Sunak, Mr Stuart said: 'Having served as a minister for most of the last eight years I have decided that now is the time to stand down. I intend to continue serving my constituents.'

Mr Stuart becomes the latest in a spate of ministerial resignations from Cabinet, with education minister Robert Halfon quitting two weeks ago - on the same day that Armed Forces minister James Heappey officially left his Government post.

Daisy Cooper, the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, said that the drumbeat of Conservative resignations is becoming deafening.

Ministers are finding any excuse they can to get away from this deeply unpopular Conservative Government. Even Rishi Sunaks Ministers know that time is up on this tired and out of touch Government.

He will be replaced by Justin Tomlinson, who had previously served as a minister in the Department of Work and Pensions.

More than 60 Tory MPs have announced that they will not be standing at the next election, including former prime minister Theresa May.

Former ministers in the past have often left Whitehall for a job in the private sector.

To do so, they first need to approach the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), whose rules are designed to prevent those with insider information from engaging in lobbying.

The Ministerial Code dictates that ministers should seek advice from Acoba about any appointments or employment they wish to take up within two years of leaving office.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
MOSCOW, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Russia declared one employee of the Embassy of Slovenia a "persona non grata" as a retaliatory move after Ljubljana expelled a Russian diplomat, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Friday.

On Friday morning, the ministry summoned the Slovenian Ambassador to Russia Darja Bavdaz Kuret to lodge a protest regarding "the groundless deprivation of accreditation" of a Russian embassy employee in Slovenia, the ministry said in a statement.

"We consider this another openly unfriendly step in the context of Ljubljana's general course towards destroying Russian-Slovenian ties. Responsibility for the consequences of such a destructive policy lies entirely with the Slovenian side," the statement read. 
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, has had a phone conversation with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and received confirmation that the Netherlands has allocated another EUR 1 billion for military aid for Ukraine and EUR 400 million more for the rebuilding.

Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zelenskyy stated that the funds had been allocated in addition to the Netherlands commitment within the bilateral security agreement.

"In a telephone conversation, Prime Minister Mark Rutte just announced that the Netherlands has allocated another billion euros for military assistance to Ukraine and 400 million for recoveryThank you, Mark, and thank you, Dutch people! This is a perfect example of support for Ukraine," Zelenskyy stated.

The conversation was dedicated to a joint effort with the partners towards accelerating the supply of artillery rounds, ammunition and air defence systems, Zelenskyy added.

Zelenskyy briefed Rutte about the preparations for the Peace Summit in Switzerland and invited the Netherlands to join it. They also discussed necessary measures for engaging as many countries as possible.

Rutte noted that EUR 1 billion would be allocated for military support in addition to the EUR 2 billion already agreed.

He added that the Netherlands would also allocate EUR 3 billion for military support for the next year.

"We will continue to do everything possible to provide more ammunition and anti-aircraft systems jointly with the international partners of Ukraine. We are working closely with Denmark and Czechia in particular. Ukraine must win this fight for the sake of its own and our security," Rutte tweeted.

Background:

As of the end of February, the Netherlands had spent over EUR 2.8 billion in aid for Ukraine.

The Dutch government allocated EUR 2 billion in military aid for Ukraine for 2024, EUR 295 million as a contribution to the European Peace Fund, EUR 89 million for justice and EUR 3 million for non-military cyber support.

The same amount of military aid was enshrined in the bilateral security agreement signed by Ukrainian and Dutch leaders on 1 March.

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Newsmax Host Makes Geography Goof-Up For The Ages: 'Very Embarrassing Stuff'

Newsmax host Rob Finnertys attempt to list off President Joe Bidens very embarrassing blunders didnt go without an on-air error about the continent of Africa on Thursday.

Finnerty spoke with Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.) as he referred to former special counsel Robert Hursreport on the presidents handling of classified documents. In the report, released in February, Hur took aim at Bidens age and mental fitness.

Republicans have since threatened to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress for refusing to release audio of Hurs interviews with Biden.

Robert Hur in his report said that he didnt recommend charges for Biden because a jury wouldnt rule against Joe Biden because hes a quote well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory and he gave us examples, said Finnerty before making an obvious continental goof.

He said that Biden didnt know that Africa was a country. He couldnt remember the year that his son died. He didnt know the last names of staff members. He forgot when he was vice president. All very embarrassing stuff.

The word Africa is not mentioned in Hurs 388-page report.

The president has since slammed Hur over the report, asking how in the hell dare he raise that in response to a line that suggested he forgot when his son Beau died.

"Biden didn't know that Africa was a country ... very embarrassing stuff" -- Newsmax host Rob Finnerty attacks Biden pic.twitter.com/rspyz8kWGJ  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 11, 2024

Critics including Keith Boykin, a former White House aide in the Clinton administration, mocked Finnerty and joked that he didnt know Africa was a country either.

You can check out his and others reactions below.

I didnt know Africa was a country either. https://t.co/BwaOwaywbp  Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) April 11, 2024

You see why the US needs to invest more money in education. pic.twitter.com/TV7a3t4Dwn   (@ChidiNwatu) April 11, 2024

Not the sharpest knife....  The Fact Checker (@MonitorFake) April 11, 2024

Please do not mock @RobFinnertyUSA for this. We all forget that Africa is actually a continent, not a country. https://t.co/Ynnsnodlwh  Bradley P. Moss (@BradMossEsq) April 11, 2024

ahh the incredibly brobdingnagian sized country of Africa is such a lovely place  bombardier  (@dudesfast) April 11, 2024

Related...
In nick of time, L.A. County adds staff to keep juvenile halls open. Many are skeptical it'll last

Los Angeles County once again narrowly averted a shutdown of its two juvenile halls, bolstering staffing enough to temporarily appease state regulators.

In February, the Board of State and Community Corrections gave the county a deadline: They had two months to improve dire conditions inside the halls or get everyone out.

On Thursday, the state board said the eleventh-hour improvements to Los Padrinos in Downey and Barry J. Nidorf in Sylmar had done the job. They voted 6 to 3 to let the countys Probation Department keep its two troubled halls open, primarily thanks to beefed-up staffing levels. One member abstained and two recused themselves.

This means the roughly 350 youths in county custody will stay put  unless the staffing starts to slip again.

Your mission now is sustainability, said Linda Penner, who chairs the state board.

Read more: State orders L.A. County to move nearly 300 youths out of 'unsuitable' juvenile halls

Over the last few years, L.A. County has repeatedly come under fire from the board, which oversees correctional facilities statewide, for incarcerating young people in dangerous facilities. Last year, the oversight board ordered all youths out of Central Juvenile Hall in Boyle Heights and most out of Nidorf after the county repeatedly failed to correct problems inside. Roughly 300 youths were transferred to Los Padrinos, which quickly became beset by similar issues.

The problems at each facility mostly stem from meager staffing. Many employees have said the halls are too dangerous to work in. There often weren't enough employees on hand to take youths to their programs, classes or, when necessary, to the bathroom. Deputies have reported an increase in violent incidents, traumatizing both youths and staff.

At Thursdays meeting in Sacramento, inspectors painted a rosier picture of conditions inside the halls, noting staffing had increased at both places. The agency pulled probation staff who usually work in the field and placed them in the halls, helping them meet minimum staffing requirements.

Probation Chief Guillermo Viera Rosa, who used to be a member of the state board, said the agency had made great strides recently in staffing the facilities and cheered the decision to let them keep operating.

While todays ... decision marks a milestone in that effort, we note the ongoing concerns and acknowledge theres still much more to be done, he said.

About 285 young people are confined at Los Padrinos, according to numbers provided by the probation oversight commission. About 67 are confined at Barry J. Nidorf, all of whom have been accused of more serious crimes.

At Thursday's meeting, many advocates  as well as some on the state board  appeared deeply skeptical the improvements would last more than a few weeks.

The problems in our juvenile halls need real fixes, not temporary band-aids, said Sean Garcia-Leys, head of the Peace and Justice Law Center and member of the probation oversight commission. No one believes the department can keep pulling hundreds of probation officers away from their other jobs to work in the facilities.

One board member called the staffing issue the elephant in the room.

Read more: 8 L.A. County probation officers placed on leave for allegedly allowing beatdown at Los Padrinos

Most people would reasonably say there's a band-aid approach employed to the staffing problem, said board member Brian Richart, the chief probation officer for El Dorado County.

Dozens of advocates urged board members to close the halls, detailing a litany of scandals in the last year, including eight probation officers placed on leave after allegedly watching a youth get beaten and the fatal overdose of an 18-year-old. Protesters temporarily shut down the L.A. County Board of Supervisors meeting earlier this week protesting poor conditions inside the halls.

Be honest with yourselves," Axel Pecero, of the advocacy group California Youth Connection, said at Thursday's meeting. "If your child was arrested tomorrow, would you feel comfortable with them spending even one night in these facilities?

Allison Ganter, deputy director with the state board, said she found in her recent inspections that safety checks were up and room confinement was down. Youths appeared to be getting more programming and school time. Deputies were missing work less than usual.

But she, too, seemed skeptical the agency could maintain the level of staffing that spurred the fixes.

Given past experience, I would say I dont have a lot of confidence, she said. But, given recent numbers, I have hope.

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.
Two brothers from Nigeria pleaded guilty Wednesday to their roles in an international sex extortion scheme linked to the 2022 suicide of a 17-year-old boy in Michigan.

Samuel and Samson Ogoshi are facing a maximum of 30 years in prison for conspiring to sexually exploit teenage boys in the United Statesby posing as a young woman online, U.S. Attorney Mark Totten announced.

According to the announcement and the brothers plea agreement, one of their victims was Jordan DeMay, a high school student in Marquette Township, Michigan, who died by suicide in 2022 after he was manipulated into sending them sexually explicit images of himself.

DeMays death sparked a joint investigation by the FBI and local law enforcement that ultimately led authorities to the Ogoshi brothers, The Associated Press reported last year.

The brothers allegedly worked with a third man, Ezekiel Robert, who is fighting an extradition order in Nigeria, according to the statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Michigan.

The plea agreement alleges the brothers worked with Robert from February 2021 through at least January 2023 to purchase hacked Instagram accounts to contact teenage boys and young men.

The scheme involved one person chatting with a victim while another researched personal information about the victim online, including their address, school and the identities of their friends and family, according to the plea agreement.

The victim would eventually be manipulated into producing and sharing sexually explicit images or videos of themselves, according to the plea agreement. Once a victim sent the sexually explicit content, the men would allegedly use the images to blackmail them into sending money.

Prosecutors said in the plea agreement that there were more than a hundred victims and that at least 11 of them were minors.

On March 25, 2022, the Ogoshi brothers spoke to DeMay, under the guise of being a young woman, to extort him, according to the plea agreement.

I have screenshot all ur followers and tags can send this nudes to everyone and also send your nudes to your Family and friends Until it goes viralAll youve to do is to cooperate with me and I wont expose you, Samuel Ogoshi messaged DeMay, according to the trios indictment.

DeMay was only able to pay his blackmailers $300, which prompted them to make more threats, according to the plea agreement. DeMay told them he was going to kill himself, to which Robert allegedly replied, Do that fast and Or Ill make you do it.

DeMays mother, Jennifer Buta, told local news station WDIV-TV last year that her son was staying at his fathers home on the night of his death and that she received a text message from her son in the middle of the night that stated, Mother, I love you.

The next morning, Buta reached out to her son, but he didnt respond. DeMays father later discovered his son had died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The brothers were extradited to the United States last August after federal agents traveled to Nigeria to investigate alongside local law enforcement, according to a statement released last year.

Buta addressed the brothers conviction in a social media post, saying she is extremely grateful for the efforts from all agencies involved.

Today wont bring Jordan back. It wont ease the every day pain and loss of him not being here, but it will help others, she wrote. Jordans legacy has changed the trajectory of this horrendous crime. Im not sure what to call today but its a moment that we can all breathe and be thankful for.

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for mental health support. Additionally, you can find local mental health and crisis resources at dontcallthepolice.com. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

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Nigerien TV reports Russian instructors and air defence systems to be operating there

The state television of Niger reported that Russian military instructors arrived in the country on a plane loaded with military equipment.

Source: Radio Liberty, citing RTN, Nigers state television

Details: The instructors arrived after the junta and Russian leader Vladimir Putin reached an agreement to strengthen cooperation.

In the channel's report, a man in camouflage uniform said they arrived to train the Nigerien army and develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.

RTN also reported that Russia has agreed to install an air defence system in Niger.

Background:

The military coup in Niger occurred on 26 July 2023. The democratically elected president of the country, Mohamed Bazoum, has since remained under arrest.

A former French colony, Niger was a partner of France and the United States in security matters. These states used it as a base to combat the Islamist insurgent movement in the Sahel region of West and Central Africa.

In December 2023, the military junta that came to power in Niger announced the termination of its military partnership with the European Union and the withdrawal of permission for the deployment of the EU mission in the country.

In March, the United States warned Niger against the potential development of its ties with Russia and Iran.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new data addressing the link, or lack thereof, between the COVID-19 vaccine and sudden cardiac death in otherwise healthy young adults.

The assessment, conducted between June 2021 and December 2022, investigated the death certificates and vaccination records of 1,292 Oregon decedents aged between 16 and 30 who had died of "cardiac or undetermined" causes.

"The data do not support an association of COVID-19 vaccination with sudden cardiac death among previously healthy young persons," determined the CDC. The vaccine is still recommended for everyone aged over 6 months.

COVD-19 vaccines are not linked to sudden cardiac deaths, says the CDC.

Health misinformation: Four years after COVID, misinformation still endangers some Americans' health. Here's why.

CDC studies cardiac deaths and the COVID vaccine

The CDC said in its analysis that reports of myocarditis, specifically in young men, made their way to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) around the time the vaccine became available to youths in 2021. Myocarditis, also known as inflammatory cardiomyopathy, is often caused by viral infections and results in inflammation and damage to the heart muscle.

These reports, paired with later media coverage of sudden deaths among previously healthy young athletes that were implied as being caused by the vaccine, prompted the CDC to launch the investigation.

Using death certificates and mandatory vaccination records from Oregon, the CDC identified people within the 16 to 30 age group with causes of death listed as sudden death, arrhythmia, dysrhythmia, asystole, cardiac arrest, myocarditis, congestive heart failure, unknown, undetermined, or pending."

The 1,292 Oregon cases were then separated by gender: 925 (72%) were males and 367 (28%) were females. Investigators then pulled records of mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations of these cases within 100 days before death.

Of the 925 young men in the study, two people received the mRNA COVID vaccine within 100 days of their death and a cardiac diagnosis could not be excluded from the cause of death, the study found.

Of the 367 young women in the student, one person received the mRNA COVID vaccine within 100 days of her death and a cardiac diagnosis could not be excluded from the cause of death, the study found.

Fact check: No, DNA fragments in COVID-19 vaccines aren't linked to 'major safety concerns'

Risk of heart issues is higher after COVID infection, not the vaccine: CDC

As of July 17, 2023, no fatal cases of myocarditis in Oregon had been reported to VAERS. Furthermore, a total of 979,289 doses of COVID-19 vaccines were administered to Oregonians aged 16 to 30 years in the period of time between May 1, 2021 and Dec. 31, 2022.

The CDC said that data collected from 40 U.S. healthcare systems between Jan. 2021 and Jan. 2022 showed that the risk for cardiac complications in people over age 5 was significantly higher after COVID-19 infection than after the COVID vaccine.

These findings are in line with past research about the safety and efficacy of the mRNA vaccine. As such, the CDC recommends vaccination and booster shots for people over six months to prevent COVID-19 and serious complications or deaths.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cardiac arrest and COVID vaccines aren't linked in young, CDC says
No food or drink on easyJet flights as catering staff strike

Holidaymakers travelling from Gatwick on easyJet and Tui flights have been warned that they will have no access to food or drink in the coming weeks as catering staff go on strike.

The Unite union said a series of walkouts by airline provider Dnatas catering staff will take place from Friday April 26 in a dispute over the removal of a shift allowance, which the union argued has cost workers between 1,500 and 2,000 each.

The union has also accused the Emirates Group-owned caterer of falsely claiming that it agreed to the removal as part of a deal that saw the introduction of a night shift premium.

Strike action will intensify if the dispute is not resolved, the union warned. It added that the lack of food and drink sales on strike days will affect easyJets revenue as the sale of snacks and beverages on flights is a major income generator.

Around 100 workers, including drivers and warehouse workers, will strike from Friday April 26 to Monday April 29, from Friday May 3 to Monday May 6, and from Friday May 10 to Monday May 13.

Dnata caters for several Gatwick-based airlines, including Tui and easyJet.

An easyJet spokesman said that they are aware of the Unite announcement related to proposed industrial action by their members working at Dnata, and would like to reassure customers we will be working with Dnata to ensure contingency plans are in place for these dates should this action take place. We urge Dnata and Unite to reach an agreement as soon as possible.

EasyJet insisted that contingency plans mean the airline will still be able to provide refreshments, such as water.

Its longest flight, from Manchester to Hurghada International Airport in Egypt, is five and a half hours  only slightly shorter than one of the quickest transatlantic routes.

I have never seen as much food and drink sold on a flight as I have on this one, a writer for travel blog The Points Guy wrote after taking the flight. The man sitting in front of me bought eight drinks at once (six white wines and two Heineken beers).

Tui had not responded to a request for comment at the time of writing.

Unites regional officer Dominic Rothwell accused Dnata of taking its workers for fools adding that it needed to rapidly return to talks with Unite and put forward a settlement that is acceptable to our members.

The move marks the latest in a long line of walkouts impacting travel in Britain, with a fresh wave of strikes announced earlier this month.

More than 600 UK Border Force officers at Heathrow, Britains busiest airport, were due to strike the week of April 8, while rail workers have just held a series of one-day strikes over pay.

Dnata has been reached for comment.

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Officials in Los Angeles County Superior Court  including, from left, Assistant Presiding Judge Sergio C. Tapia II, Presiding Judge Samantha P. Jessner and Executive Officer David W. Slayton  are sounding the alarm over a dire lack of certified court reporters. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

California's highest-ranking court officials are warning of a growing "constitutional crisis" playing out across the state's judicial system, as hundreds of thousands of hearings are held without a precise record of what occurred.

The problem is a shortage of public court reporters, the stenographers who transcribe proceedings, and state law that bars electronic recording devices from being used in certain types of hearings  even when a reporter isn't available.

Courts have tried to triage the problem by reserving available court reporters for the most important cases, such as felony trials. But other critically important proceedings  such as for domestic violence restraining orders and child custody disputes  routinely are going unrecorded.

On a daily basis, litigants are told they can either hire their own reporters  for hundreds or even thousands of dollars per hearing  or simply go without a record.

The result, officials and advocates agree, is that poorer Californians have less access to justice. Without a verbatim record of a proceeding, litigants can struggle to defend their rights  including against abusers  and find it impossible to appeal rulings against them, they said.

"It is absolutely an access to justice issue," said Cory Hernandez, senior managing attorney for the Family Violence Appellate Project, which regularly confronts the issue in domestic violence cases. "Not having court reporters is disproportionately impacting women, and women of color in particular."

Read more: A heated custody battle over a transgender child in California stokes a viral debate

Last year, 332,000 hearings occurred without a court reporter or an electronic recording device in Los Angeles County Superior Court alone. California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero warned in a speech last month that, statewide, about 133,000 such hearings occurred in a single three-month period.

"We all want and need more licensed court reporters to be trained, certified and hired," Guerrero said. "But the number of certified court reporters continues to decline and it threatens access to justice  especially for vulnerable Californians."

Guerrero mentioned offering bonuses and better pay to recruit and retain staff, but said "devastating effects are already being felt by far too many court users," and that she is eager to work with others to find "practical solutions."

In Sacramento, where the issue has seemed intractable for years, a tense debate over the best path forward has pitted court reporters and their labor representatives against court administrators and justice reform advocates  testing the priorities of liberal lawmakers in the process.

Looming over it all is the rapid advance of artificial intelligence and other modern recording technology, which some view as a threat to thousands of good jobs and others see as a promising solution.

"It is in some ways a traditional labor, access to justice issue," said Chesa Boudin, executive director of Berkeley Law's Criminal Law & Justice Center and San Francisco's former district attorney. "The extra element of technology and AI  makes it a little bit more complicated."

What caused the problem?

Because of the vital role that transcripts play in the legal system, including as the basis for appeals, court reporters  also known as "guardians of the record"  have long been viewed as essential in public proceedings, like judges, clerks and bailiffs.

The hiring standards are tough. Candidates must pass a rigorous licensing exam involving grammar, punctuation, and legal jargon, plus transcribe 200 words per minute with 97.5% accuracy, among other qualifications. The requirements are stricter than in other states, and many who pursue the career fail.

As of 2023, California court systems had the equivalent of 1,164 active, full-time court reporters on their payrolls, according to a March report from the Legislative Analyst's Office, around 700 positions short of the needed staffing. But the gap is not entirely due to a lack of people qualified to do the work, as the same report showed more than 4,700 active licensees in the state.

A Department of Consumer Affairs report from May found that just 41% of surveyed reporters primarily worked in courts  and many of those were freelancers for hire, not full-time employees. The rest worked in the private sector.

Diana Van Dyke, a public court reporter for decades and a board member of the Los Angeles County Court Reporters Assn., blamed judicial system mismanagement for driving employees into the private sector  starting with steep reporter layoffs during an economic downturn more than a decade ago.

The fact that court officials have ceded reporting services for entire areas of courthouse law  like family law  to the private sector since only exacerbated the problem, Van Dyke said.

"The court created the very existence of the 'potential constitutional crisis' that they are complaining about," she said.

David W. Slayton, the L.A. County Superior Court's executive officer, called that argument "disingenuous," and said the problem is recruitment and retention. The courts, he said, are doing "everything in our power" to compete  including by offering annual salaries of $130,000, good benefits, additional fees for transcription services and $50,000 signing bonuses.

Read more: Santa Monica luxury towers, HOA fees, alleged theft: Where did the millions go?

It just isn't working, Slayton said, in part because private sector reporters can choose when and where they work, sometimes work remotely, pick the cases they cover, and still make thousands of dollars a day.

Something has to change, he said  and soon, given that about 70% of public reporters in the L.A. County Superior Court system are eligible for retirement.

"We need to come together  and figure out a way to solve this," Slayton said. "We are pleading for a solution."

What is the solution?

Several measures to help reduce the reporter shortage have been implemented, including the state's 2022 approval of so-called voice writers, or court reporters who speak into a device to capture what is being said rather than typing out shorthand notes.

Other solutions being discussed include allowing court reporters to appear remotely, to both save time and match the flexibility enjoyed by private reporters, and creating one pool of court reporters for all the state's courts, to increase efficiency and minimize competition between systems.

However, what court officials and many legal advocates are pushing for the most is for electronic recording to be allowed in all civil proceedings  as it is already in other state proceedings, in other states' courts and in some federal courts.

Court officials argue that electronic recording devices should be allowed as a backup whenever a reporter is not available, and that the law barring them is based partly on outdated notions of what recording devices are capable of capturing.

Last year, Sen. Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) introduced a bill in Sacramento that would have allowed electronic recording  but it stalled amid fierce opposition from court reporters and their union lobbyists. The critics warned the bill would give courts a green light to abandon reporter recruitment efforts and go all-in on electronic recordings, regardless of promises to the contrary.

Read more: How bashing California became a requirement for conservative politicians

Recording devices provide an inferior record, opponents argue, in part because they cannot ask speakers to slow down or speak up or distinguish between speakers who sound similar, as reporters often have to do. Some claim relying on electronic recordings will produce inaccurate records  so much so that no record is preferable.

L.A. County Superior Court Presiding Judge Samantha P. Jessner said today's recording systems are highly sophisticated, using a network of strategically placed microphones.

"Any claim that the technology won't accurately and thoroughly capture the record I think ignores where we are as a society in terms of technology sophistication," Jessner said.

She said there would continue to be plenty of work for court reporters if the technology were introduced, including in transcribing a huge influx of recordings. The courts, she said, would continue hiring too, as they still believe that reporters are the best option  they just can't be the only option.

Shelley Curran, administrative director of the Judicial Council, which sets policy for the state's courts and backed the bill, said something has to give, as the current system is unfair to low- and moderate-income litigants.

Boudin said digitizing modern courtrooms may be inevitable, but warned of problems he experienced with electronic recordings during his career as a San Francisco prosecutor, including in misdemeanor cases where testimony was muffled or inaudible  problems a court reporter would have prevented.

"That's their job," Boudin said. "An automated recording system won't do that."

Hernandez, of the Family Violence Appellate Project, said all the arguments for why electronic recording devices should not be used are "just political" and "contrary to common sense."

Read more: Her file sat untouched for 15 years. Why did it take so long to find Ruby Scotts killer?

Many domestic violence cases play out for years, before different judges. Survivors often have to prove a "change in circumstances" in order to get a new protective order or change a child custody agreement. If they are before a new judge, and they have no transcript of past proceedings to prove their circumstances have changed, they can miss out on deserved relief, Hernandez said.

Courts are required to provide reporters to many litigants who can prove they are indigent, but that policy is little known, underutilized and of no help to middle-income litigants who don't qualify and can't afford to hire a reporter, advocates said.

Overwhelmingly, the burdens are falling on women, women of color, LGBTQ+ people, poor people and people in rural communities, "so for legislators to not act" is a dereliction of duty, Hernandez said.

"They tell us time and again that they are committed to helping survivors and protecting them, but I guess that commitment only goes so far."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  Norfolks Riverview Theater is receiving a $700,000 state grant to help with its major renovation.

Its part of the $1.5 million in Port Host Communities Revitalization Fund grants announced on Friday by Governor Glenn Youngkin. The funding was allocated by the General Assembly for modernization of buildings in Virginias port host communities.

Youngkin also announced $800,000 for improvements the dock at Newport News Seafood Industrial Park.

Previous coverage: Norfolks historic Riverview Theater to reopen

Revitalizing derelict structures will not only stimulate job creation but also act as a driving force for fresh economic prospects in these port host communities, Youngkin said. Through the Port Host Community Revitalization Fund, our investment is a step towards enhancing our infrastructure, bolstering our economy, and enhancing the lives of Virginians.

Renovations started last summer to the historic theater on Granby Street in the Riverview area of the city, which is set to reopen in August.

You can read all about project in WAVYs previous coverage.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
KIEV, April 12 (Xinhua) -- The Ukrainian government has allocated an additional 3.88 billion hryvnias (100 million U.S. dollars) to build defense fortifications, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said Friday on Telegram.

Out of the sum, 1.7 billion hryvnias (43 million dollars) will be used to install reinforcements in the eastern Kharkiv region, and 1.5 billion hryvnias (38 million dollars) will go for fortifying the northern Sumy region.

The rest of the funds will be channeled for the construction of protecting structures in the southern Kherson and Mykolayiv regions and the eastern Donetsk region.

Since the start of the year, the government has allocated a record 30 billion hryvnias (766 million dollars) to construct defensive lines amid the conflict with Russia. 
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left, and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, back left, tour the assembly building during a visit to the Honda Aircraft facility in Greensboro, N.C., Friday, April 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida cemented economic links and cultural amity with North Carolina on Friday, following up time in Washington during his official U.S. visit by checking up on benchmark Japanese companies building in the ninth-most populous state and meeting with students.

In between, Kishida lunched at the governors mansion in Raleigh, a historic first for the head of a foreign country in the Tar Heel state. Japan is North Carolinas largest source of foreign direct investment, where over 200 Japanese companies have now set up shop, employing over 30,000 people, according to Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper and his office.

I am honored to be here in North Carolina to showcase the multilayered and strong ties between Japan and the United States, Kishida said through a translator, inside the mansion ballroom, where about 60 people listened. The guest list included Democratic state Attorney General Josh Stein, Republican state House Speaker Tim Moore and executives of several Japanese and American companies in the region.

He called North Carolina a state at the forefront of the times and flexed his knowledge about its landmarks, mentioning Kill Devil Hills, where the Wright Brothers had their first successful flight, as an example of the state's ingenuity.

Until now, Kishida's trip to the U.S. had been focused on global safety. He met President Joe Biden to discuss security concerns about Chinas military, participated in the first trilateral summit between the U.S., Japan and the Philippines, and made the case in an address to a joint session of Congress for the U.S. to remain involved in global security.

But Kishida, who has been Japans prime minister since 2021, said before his trip that he chose to stop in North Carolina to show that the Japan-U.S. partnership extends beyond Washington, according to a translation posted on his website.

Kishida, Cooper and others traveled to the Greensboro area for Friday morning visits to a Honda Aircraft Co. production facility, as well as to the construction site for a Toyota Motor Corp. electric and hybrid battery plant that is expected to ultimately employ more than 5,000 people.

Hours before Kishida and his wife arrived Thursday night at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, a subsidiary of another Japanese company, Fujifilm, announced an additional $1.2 billion investment in its upcoming biopharmaceutical manufacturing plant and another 680 jobs.

Chiaki Takagi, a Japanese studies lecturer at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, said this week that the prime minister's visit surprised her but that it could signal a positive future partnership between Japan and the U.S. and more Japanese workers coming to the state.

This whole thing will provide the area with opportunities to be engaged in very active cultural exchange between Japan and the U.S., Takagi said.

The luncheon marked the first time a foreign head of state has visited the governor's mansion since record-keeping began in 1891, the state Department of Natural and Cultural Resources said.

What a better way to start than with one of our closest allies and friends from the country of Japan, with whom we share so many common interests, Cooper said at the luncheon. So today we make history, welcoming our wonderful friends.

Cooper has a history of visiting Japan, making two trips to Tokyo in 2017 and 2023 during his time as governor. When it was announced Kishida was coming to the U.S., Rahm Emanuel, U.S. ambassador to Japan, said during the luncheon Cooper was the first to call to ask for the prime minister to visit his state.

Guests dined on a three-course meal prepared by James Beard award-winning Raleigh chef Ashley Christensen, which included wagyu beef tenderloin and Carolina Gold Rice pudding. Meanwhile, additional members of the Japanese delegation and the governor's staff listened to live bluegrass music as they ate barbeque.

Kishida, Cooper and others went to North Carolina State University in Raleigh later Friday, where they met students ranging from those in middle school to adults studying Japanese. They visited the university's Japan Center, which was established by former Gov. Jim Hunt and others in 1980 following a state trade mission to Tokyo. North Carolina State also has long, formal ties with Japan's Nagoya University.

Earlier Friday, Kishida's wife, Yuko, and North Carolina first lady Kristin Cooper shared a traditional Japanese tea at Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham.

___

Associated Press writer Gary D. Robertson in Raleigh contributed to this report.
North Port annexing historic site in Warm Mineral Springs as it weighs tearing down others

The Warm Mineral Springs Motel, designed by Victor Lundy, a leading figure of the Sarasota School of Architecture. The North Port City Commission gave initial approval of an ordinance to annex the historic structure.

NORTH PORT  North Port city commissioners gave initial approval Tuesday to annexing the Warm Mineral Springs Motel.

Once a second approval of the annexation is completed April 23, the motel built for the Florida Quadricentennial will become join the list of structures in the city included on the National Register of Historic Places.

The three other structures, including a sales building, spa and cyclorama at Warm Mineral Springs Park, were built for the Florida Quadricentennial as well.

But the future of those three city owned structures are questionable after the demise of a public-private partnership to develop 61.4 acres of parkland and restore the three buildings on the 21.6-acre historic Warm Mineral Spring site.

What makes the Warm Mineral Springs Motel historic?

The 1.77-acre hotel property, as well as the 83-acre Warm Mineral Springs Park parcel, were purchased in 1955 by a family group that included Samuel Herron Jr.

The Warm Mineral Springs Motel, which was designed by Victor Lundy in 1958, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in February 2013.

The group also sold 3,000 lots in the community now known as Warm Mineral Springs.

Herron commissioned Victor Lundy, a noted member of the Sarasota School of Architecture, to design a family home on Alhambra Road in Venice and the 28-room motel.

The motel was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in February 2013.

In a 1958 issue of The Florida Association of Architects magazine, Lundy wrote that for his design, I was searching for a form that would somehow symbolize the thought of the Fountain of Youth by a flowing shape, that would also echo the organic growing shape of a tree.

The hyperbolic paraboloid roof structures stand out, and speak to the artistic Lundys preference for curvature in his architecture at that time.

Why are the owners seeking annexation now?

North Port Planning & Zoning Manager Hank Flores told the City Commission that the motel owners started a voluntary annexation process because the motels septic system is failing and they want to connect to North Port water and sewer utilities.

The motel was purchased by Hudson, Florida-based North Port Investment One LLC in 2016 for $1.1 million. Neither property owner Vijay Patel nor Manish Patel, who applied for the voluntary annexation, spoke at the meeting.

The motel would hook into the city utilities through an existing force main along U.S. 41 that connects to Wellen Park.

The city has extended water and sewer services to customers outside the city  notably to Sarasota County for the restrooms at Sen. Bob Johnsons Landing and the restaurant now operated as the Tarpon Point Grill.

In those cases, customers outside of the city limits pay higher rates to use city water and sewer and in the case of the restaurant  which was negotiated by the owners of the Myakka River Oyster Bar  the owners would have to apply for annexation once it becomes contiguous with the city.

City commissioners were generally pleased with the prospect of adding the motel to the city.

The North Port City Commission approved the first reading of an ordinance to annex the Warm Mineral Springs Motel, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in February 2013.

This is how we increase our tax base in the city, by annexing these properties along (U.S.) 41, Commissioner Debbie McDowell said. I look forward to more being annexed into the city.

What is the future of the three buildings at Warm Mineral Springs Park?

The only change since the City Commission voted last month to raze the three historic buildings at the park is a planned reduction of the $8.5 million earmarked for implementation of the Warm Mineral Springs Master Plan.

Though no official vote has been taken, $5 million in sale tax revenue earmarked for that endeavor is being eyed to help fund a proposed $122.7 million police station instead.

On March 22, the city also posted a legal advertisement for a construction manager at risk to build an admissions building with restrooms and other site improvements.

Architect Victor Lundy wrote in a 1958 issue of The Florida Association of Architects that he chose the hyperbolic paraboloid shape of the Warm Mineral Springs Motel roof to symbolize the thought of the Fountain of Youth.

A city spokesman said via email that was based on the most recent directive from the City Commission that called for staff to determine the cost of demolishing each building  as a group or individually  while preserving portions of the mural in the cyclorama, constructing a basic sales building with inside restrooms and outdoor showers, as well as the cost for site development, parking and extension of water and sewer lines.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: North Port leaders vote to annex Warm Mineral Springs Motel on U.S. 41
A North Reading off-duty firefighter is being praised for providing life-saving aid to a jogger.

On Sunday, March 17, firefighter Vincent Zarella was off the clock and on his way home, when he heard a call on his portable radio of a person who was unresponsive and being assisted by a passerby, according to North Reading fire.

Zarella was in the area at the time and immediately responded to the scene and found a person who was helping the jogger.

Firefighter Zarella immediately took over and performed CPR compressions, until North Reading police arrived on scene with an AED.

Both men continued compressions before using the AED device, while also placing an airway into the individual.

North Reading Fire also assisted on the scene and assisted until Reading Ambulance arrived and transported the individual to the hospital.

I would like to recognize the actions of Firefighter Zarella and Officers Tilton and LeBlanc, who jumped into action to assist a community member, said Chief Stats. The quick response from our public safety members is a great example of our commitment to service for the residents and community members of North Reading.

Due to the quick actions of North Reading firefighters and police officers, the individual was conscious by the time the ambulance arrived.

This is a great example of how our department members work together and I am thankful for the strong partnership between police and fire, said Chief Zimmerman. Officers LeBlanc, Tilton, and Firefighter Zarella, along with our other public safety members, used their training and skills to administer life-saving aid to an individual in need of assistance. I applaud their professionalism and quick thinking.

The individual has been released from the hospital and is doing well.

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KINGSPORT and ERWIN, Tenn. (WJHL)  With the legislative session set to wrap up by the end of April, the future of Tennessee Governor Bill Lees school voucher proposal is still up in the air.

Versions in both the House and Senate have been stalled in committees since last month, but top state lawmakers say theyre hoping to work out a deal to pass the legislation soon.

Kingsport School Board votes to lower tuition rates for non-city residents

Bristol State Senator Jon Lundberg, who sponsored the Senate version, told News Channel 11 Friday that Republican leaders continue to negotiate while on break for the weekend.

Were hoping we can get together with something by midweek, Lundberg said.

If lawmakers opt to adopt the Senate bill, not only would students be able to use public dollars to attend private school, but theyd also be able to use state monies to pay tuition to attend a different public school district than the one where they live.

Its a component of the bill that local school leaders are still processing.

Itll be interesting to see if, in fact, that goes through how that does impact us, said Unicoi County Director of Schools John English.

With only about 2,000 students in the county, English said, even a small decrease in student population could make a big impact.

I mean, the prospects, if you did see even a smaller number leave, the challenge is that still does it change your overhead costs for building for infrastructure or for teachers, for staff? English said.

Whether or not the voucher plan becomes a reality, Kingsport City Schools is preparing to welcome more tuition students.

This week, the Board of Education lowered tuition rates for all Tennessee students to $1,000 per year.

Our goal really is how can we make it an attractive option for folks that may want to come to Kingsport? said Assistant Superintendent Andy True. In the past, the financial side of that, that tuition costs may have been a barrier.

When asked whether the district was preparing for a large influx of students, True said even if the district sees more requests, its always a numbers game.

For example, on a given year, we may have a parent saying, I would like to attend my child to enroll in third grade at this elementary school,' True told News Channel 11. So we really drill down to look at you know, what our numbers are like by school, by grade level, and a lot of times we can say, Yes, that we have the opportunity for that.'

Sometimes, though, True said they have to send parents to a different school. That process, True said, would not change even if the voucher proposal is approved.

Both the Senate and House bills are scheduled in committees next week.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Norway to send 22 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, with US approval

As part of the fighter jet coalition, Norway is preparing to send 22 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, 12 of which are already in a serviceable condition.

Source: European Pravda, citing Norwegian news outlet Nettavisen with reference to its sources

Details: According to Nettavisen, Norway has received permission from the United States to send 22 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, as well as engines, auxiliary materials, simulators, spare parts and other related equipment.

This does not mean, however, that all of the 22 fighter jets are fully operational  some may be used for spare parts and repairs to other aircraft.

The Nettavisen article says 12 Norwegian F-16s may be airworthy: Norway had planned to sell them to the US company Draken International under a contract signed in December 2021.

"The sale agreement with Draken International does not seem to be going ahead, and the aircraft, which were to be used for training in the United States, will instead be used to protect Ukraine's airspace," the outlet reports.

Nettavisen did not specify a timeframe for when Ukraine might receive the Norwegian F-16s, but assumes it will not happen before the NATO summit in Washington in July this year.

Back in the summer of 2023, Norway confirmed that it had joined the F-16 coalition, but did not publicly state the number of fighter jets it would provide to Ukraine. According to Norwegian media reports at the time, the plan was to send about five to ten aircraft.

Norway sent several F-16 fighter jets to Denmark in early January 2024 to train Ukrainian pilots and support staff.

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WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  This July marks two years since 21-year-old Evan Leonard lost his life to a fentanyl overdose.

At the time, he believed he was taking cocaine. The man who allegedly sold Evan the laced drug has been charged with second-degree murder and a felony delivery of a controlled substance.

As his family waits for justice, they hope no other parent experiences this heartache.

I think this is the third time Ive been in this room since that day, Ron Leonard, Evans father said.

Murfreesboro mother creates foundation in sons honor after he dies from fentanyl

Evans childhood bedroom is filled with all the things he loved. I still buy things. I still buy him stuff, Nikki Leonard, Evans mother, said.

Evan was a collector of action figures, sci-fi movies, music, and books.

Evan wanted to be a writer and this was the last book he has writing that he never got to finish, Nikki said. Because Evans story ended far too soon.

I just got off I-40 when the phone rang, and it was the roommate, Ron said.

It was July of 2022 when Evans parents got the call that their youngest son didnt wake up. I just remember leaning up against the wall and just falling to the floor. And I was like there is no way. Just no way. Not my baby, Nikki said.

It robs your child of everything: Mother shares her late sons struggle with substance abuse disease

His family rushed to Evans apartment in Nashville and would later learn that he overdosed on fentanyl.

I just remember someone came out the door and said, You can touch the bag, and it didnt hit me, and I was like the bag? And then they rolled him out in a body bag, and I just remember telling them to wake him up, Nikki said.

Evans parents told News 2 opioids were not something their son ever experimented with before. At the time, he thought he was buying cocaine and planned to play video games with a friend that night.

When this happens you cant believe it happened to you. That it was my son that lost his life to this, Nikki said.

It stole her from us: Middle Tennessee womans dreams cut short by fatal fentanyl overdose

After months of an investigation, Metro Police would later arrest a man for selling a street drug containing fentanyl.

His autopsy report proved that there was nothing by marijuana and fentanyl in his system, Nikki said.

His parents are now hoping justice can help heal their broken hearts. Getting justice for Evan is getting justice for every single person that this has happened to. Every mother that has sat in my place, Nikki said.

The things that I thought were so important before really dont mean much of anything today. It has changed my perspective completely, Ron said.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Bringing with it a new chapter in Evans story. Full of more of Evans favorite things, but more importantly more love for who he was.

I just try to focus on the good things that I still have in life, and I tell myself I have to live for Evan, Nikki said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Nova Group sets up new electricity generation company amid Russian attacks on infrastructure

Nova Group has set up a company that will generate energy on a regular basis, including both solar and gas power, the group's co-owner Volodymyr Popereshniuk announced on April 12.

The newly-created Nova Energy is the seventh company to join Nova Group, which owns Nova Poshta, Ukraine's leading postal service.

"When the Russians started to attack electricity generation, we realized that we needed to strengthen the autonomy of energy supply," Popereshniuk wrote on Facebook.

Moscow has recently intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure, destroying several thermal power plants across the country, including the Trypillia plant, the main electricity supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts.

In March, attacks reportedly damaged or completely destroyed 80% of the thermal generating capacity of DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company.

Over the past three months, Russia has conducted around 30,000 strikes on Ukrainian territory, according to Ukraine's Interior Ministry. Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said Ukraine's energy system is currently undergoing the largest-scale series of attacks by Russia.

Popereshniuk hopes that other companies will also enter the electricity generation market.

"If regulations and prohibitions do not interfere, entrepreneurs will quickly create the capacities needed for the economy," he added.

Throughout the winter of 2022-2023, Russia launched a series of mass missile and drone strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure facilities, killing dozens of civilians and causing rolling blackouts nationwide. That winter, Russia severely hit almost half of the country's energy system.

Read also: Russia launches large-scale attack across Ukraine, hitting energy infrastructure

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Anti-overdose efforts in New York have gained access to $335 million in opioid settlement funds so far, but mounting drug deaths have now fueled a push for a state emergency declaration to combat the public health crisis.

New Yorks continued struggle to curb overdose deaths  which set new record-highs last year by claiming more than 6,700 lives statewide, early data show  comes as some other states reported plateaus or slight declines in drug deaths.

That contrast suggested the decades-long opioid epidemic fight in New York required renewed urgency, advocates said. A bipartisan group of 50 state lawmakers last week urged Gov. Kathy Hochul to declare an overdose state disaster emergency, citing a need for expanded authority to combat drug deaths.

The Black Poster Project at Crane Park in Monroe, NY on Saturday, August 7, 2021. The Black Poster Project is a traveling exhibit that features posters of people who have been lost to the ongoing opioid crisis.

How many opioid deaths in New York?

Early data analysis suggested drug overdose deaths plateaued last year in New York when excluding New York City. A total of 3,407 drug deaths hit the state during the 12-month period ending in October, nearly identical to the death toll the prior year, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provisional data show.

In New York City, however, drug deaths spiked 10% last year during the same period, reaching 3,361.

Opioid settlement funds: NY spending $192M in opioid settlement funds. How much will your county get?

Overall, the fact the state and citys drug deaths are hitting record-highs reinforced concerns that the opioid epidemic has shifted into a broader overdose crisis. Thats because many street drugs are being laced with deadly synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl and xylazine, which fuels accidental overdoses.

Nationally, drug deaths have quadrupled over the past two decades, killing 107,941 Americans in 2022, or 32.6 deaths per 100,000 people, according to the CDC. The total number of deaths is a slight increase from 2021 (106,699 deaths.)

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announces the first-year total of opioid settlement funds being spent statewide during a media briefing in the Bronx.

What are the benefits of an overdose disaster emergency in NY?

At least eight other states have declared a state emergency in response to the opioid crisis. The moves came after the Trump administration declared it a national emergency in 2017.

Each declaration opened a toolbox of otherwise off-limits governmental authority, though the details about funding, regulation and other aspects of the anti-opioid measures varied based on the respective executive orders.

In New York, lawmakers sent a letter to Hochul outlining their goals for a disaster declaration, as first reported by City & State.

Among the proposed measures:

Waiving all cost sharing  such as copays coinsurance, deductibles  for those attempting to access substance use treatment services.

Increasing Medicaid rates for substance use treatment services.

Adjusting and/or waiving unattainable staffing requirements in the state rules.

Creating emergency regulations permitting community-based organizations to enhance overdose prevention methods and services.

Every 90 minutes a New Yorker dies a preventable (drug) death, state Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, D-Queens, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, referring to the April 2 letter. More can and must be done.

Hochul has yet to address the letter, which followed a months-long campaign by advocates and some lawmakers seeking the disaster declaration.

Opioid funds: Advocates irate in 2022 over Kathy Hochul secrecy on spending opioid settlement funds

Tracking opioid settlement funds: What has NY done with the money?

Meanwhile, New York has outperformed some states in getting opioid settlement funds to advocate and service providers on the drug crisis frontlines, according to KFF Health News reports tracking the money nationally.

In New York, about $192 million in settlement funds was reaching communities as of last fall. The largest chunk about $64 million  went to regional abatement programs, which spanned a broad range of locally managed addiction and mental health services, state data show.

Other spending touched on everything from housing and transportation services to public awareness and harm reduction, such as programs distributing overdose-reversal naloxone kits and drug test strips to identify fentanyl-tainted narcotics.

The money is part of more than $2.6 billion in legal settlements secured by New York through its lawsuits accusing drug makers, distributers and pharmacies of knowingly flooding neighborhoods with opioid pain pills, which ignited the addiction epidemic that has killed more than 40,000 New Yorkers since 2014, state officials said.

Additional settlement payments will be flowing to state agencies and local governments over the next 17 years. Hochul's administration says $335 million has been made available to date, though some spending initiatives remain pending.

The KFF Health News tracker, which is exploring select legal settlements, reported that New York has received nearly $113 million so far, with another $927 million in estimated future payouts.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Opioids: Will NY declare emergency to combat record drug overdoses?
NYs legal marijuana industry reaches new high with over 100 licensed pot shops raking in the green

New Yorks legal cannabis industry hit a new high this week  with more than 100 licensed pot shops now open across the Empire State, officials said Thursday.

Of the 103 marijuana sellers in business, 44 are located in New York City.

Nineteen other licensed weed operators will open shortly and 35 other retail licenses were approved by the state Cannabis Control Board Thursday.

More than 100 licensed pot shops have opened across New York. James Keivom

We havent even tipped the iceberg yet, CCB chairwoman Tremaine Wright said during Thursdays public meeting.

Legal marijuana sales from cannabis shops jumped 32% for the first three months of 2024, to $85 million from $62 million during the last quarter of 2023, reported John Kagan, the state Office of Cannabis Managements policy director.

Of the 103 marijuana shops open, 44 are located in New York City. Getty Images

The number of cannabis stores opening has dramatically picked up in the past few months. But state regulators admitted that the large illicit weed market is still a big problem and hoped Gov. Kathy Hochul and Albany approve a tougher law as part of next years budget to make it easier to shut down unlicensed shops.

Marijuana consumers still have thousands of options in the state thanks to the huge black market of illicit stores, said CCB member Jennifer Gilbert Jenkins.

We have all these illegal stores that need to be closed, she said.

The state Cannabis Control Board approved 35 other retail licenses on Thursday. ZUMAPRESS.com

A key negotiator for the state Senate said Thursday a tougher padlock law will be part of an eventual accord on the budget, which was due April 1.

There will be a big boost in enforcement with illegal shop closing options, Senate Finance Committee Chairwoman Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan) told The Post.

A negotiator for the Senate said a stricter padlock law will be implemented. Paul Martinka

The state law legalizing marijuana was approved in March 2021  but the rollout had been hampered by political and bureaucratic hurdles and lawsuits.

There was a delay in appointing members to the CCB and hiring of staff when former Gov. Andrew Cuomo resigned amid a sexual misconduct scandal and was replaced by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The first cannabis shop opened in December 2022 but lawsuits, a backlog of applications for licensing of dispensaries, difficulties with financing and the failure to stop the unchecked growth of illegal shops slowed growth.

Farmers were left in the lurch, with hundreds of pounds of flowered marijuana they had no one to sell to.
At lunchtime in schools across Westchester and the Hudson Valley, cafeterias fill up with students. Amid the cacophony of friends catching up and moving lines of kids waiting to grab lunch is a silent crisis. Food insecurity is on the rise across America, and here in New York, nearly one in six children struggle with hunger.

New York took a historic first step to address this crisis last year when Gov. Kathy Hochul and the legislature allocated $134.6 million in the State Budget to expand the number of schools across the state that are able to offer free school meals to all their students.

However, many students in our region were left behind. The Healthy School Meals for All NY Kids campaign released an interactive map earlier this year showing which schools have been impacted by the expansion this year, and which schools were left out.

As the map makes clear, there is more work to be done to ensure kids in the Hudson Valley  and across the state  have access to the school meals they need. Statewide, nearly 660 schools and over 320,000 students still do not have access to universal free breakfast and lunch while at school. In the mid-Hudson region, more than 80,000 students in over 160 schools were left behind.

In schools without universal free school meals, a family of four making just $56,000 per year  far below a livable wage  does not qualify for free school meals. Those who do qualify often hesitate to participate due to the stigma of a means-tested program.

Fresh produce to be loaded on to delivery trucks at Feeding Westchester in Elmsford March 27, 2024. Feeding Westchester provides food to over 300 programs throughout the county, including food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers, schools, and health care centers.

Healthy school meals help students learn and thrive, in the classroom and beyond. Studies show school meals boost test scores in reading and math, improve cognitive function, and even boost school attendance. Providing meals at no cost also provides families with financial relief, saving households an estimated $150 per month per child in food costs.

Perhaps most importantly, providing universal school meals can alleviate food insecurity. Here at Feeding Westchester, we see the need in our communities firsthand. Each month our foodbank and nearly 300 community partners and programs are seeing an average of 220,000 neighbor visits, 80,000 of which are child visits. Yet in Westchester County, approximately 40% of schools are still unable to offer free school meals to all their students.

Opinion: Gov. Kathy Hochul must support Nourish New York and local food banks

It is time to include school meals with the education tools provided to all students at no cost, like textbooks, bus rides, and school-issued technology. For less than one-tenth of one percent of this years state budget, Governor Hochul and legislative leaders can bring free breakfast and lunch to every student in Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and across the state.

The State Senate and Assembly included full funding for this important policy in their one-house budget proposals. Now we need to ensure it gets across the finish line. New York must close the gap now and fully fund Healthy School Meals for All NY Kids.

Ciara Mulligan is manager of Community Partnerships & Advocacy at Feeding Westchester.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: NY must close the school meals gap for Hudson Valley students
ZAGREB, April 12 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese folk dance and musical performance staged at the Zagreb School of Economics and Management (ZSEM) on Friday attracted over 500 audience members.

During the one-hour performance, the Hangzhou Song and Dance Troupe from China's Zhejiang Province showcased Chinese folk dances and performed music using traditional Chinese musical instruments.

Qi Qianjin, the Chinese ambassador to Croatia, former Croatian deputy Prime Minister Ante Simonic and ZSEM Dean Mato Njavro were also present at the performance.

"Today's performance is very successful as the hall is packed, which demonstrates the charm of Chinese culture and showed the friendship between the peoples of China and Croatia," said Qi.

The Chinese embassy will continue to strengthen all aspects of exchanges with Croatia, especially the cultural exchanges, to further deepen the friendship between the two peoples and promote the development of China-Croatia relations, the ambassador added. 
The Adams administration released a draft version of its signature housing plan on Thursday, revealing new details about the citys strategy to address the ongoing crisis.

Mayor Adams first introduced his City of Yes for Housing Opportunity scheme in September. Its intended to spur the creation of 100,000 new apartments across the city over the next decade or so by cutting zoning red tape to enable a little more housing in every neighborhood.

Components of Zoning for Housing Opportunity include allowing accessory dwelling units such as basement apartments, lifting parking mandates and making it easier to convert office buildings into housing.

The nearly 800 page-long annotated text shared Thursday included long-sought specifics about affordability requirements.

One of the key proposals is allowing buildings to be built 20% larger than normally permitted, if the extra space is permanently affordable.

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine supports the measure and previously estimated Universal Affordability Preference, or UAP, could lead to tens of thousands of new affordable apartments.

Thursdays announcement revealed that to qualify for UAP, units will have to be affordable to New Yorkers earning an average of 60% of the area median income (AMI). That translates to monthly rents of $1,272 for a studio apartment or $1,906 for a two-bedroom.

The plan also stipulates that the deep affordability option of Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH)  which developers are required to include when an area is rezoned to add housing  can be used on its own, and no longer has to be paired with other, higher AMI levels.

Rachel Fee, executive director of the New York Housing Conference, was encouraged by the new parameters.

I think thats real affordability, she said of the 60% AMI average. Were really pleased that the city is taking this approach, that theyre encouraging more affordable housing with a density bonus, and that this is going to be at rents that are below market and at the kind of affordability levels New Yorkers need.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams similarly praised the news.

The affordability levels in the new text for the Zoning for Housing Opportunity better reflect the growing need for prioritizing deeper affordability, and I welcome these changes, she said in a statement. As a city, we must advance policies that secures affordable housing for all New Yorkers.

But the plan has proved divisive, embraced by pro-development and real estate groups but treated with skepticism by some communities and advocates who fear it would do little to alleviate the housing crisis.

It comes as lawmakers in Albany are circling a larger housing deal.

Zoning for Housing Opportunity is currently in the environmental review stage and still has to undergo the citys monthslong land use process. Its the third and final prong in the City of Yes zoning changes, the first of which passed last year and the second of which is headed to a final City Council vote.
A spring day in the park was flushed down the toilet for a local mom after she was fined $50 for letting her four-year-old take an emergency wee outside.

Last Saturday, Michiko Sasaki, 46, and her young son, Kobe, were having a nice time at the Battery Playscape in Battery Park City when the boy suddenly had to go to the restroom.

Sasaki took him to the closest restroom in the park, but it was plastered with a sign reading No bathrooms.

Michiko Sasaki got a $50 summons after she let her son Kobe take an emergency wee outside at Battery Playscape park when the public restroom was closed. Emmy Park for NY Post

Sasaki told The Post she had no choice but to let her 4-year-old urinate outside when the nearest public bathroom, pictured here, was closed. Emmy Park for NY Post

She panicked. Kobe has anxiety issues and sensory processing disorder, a fairly common condition that affects how the brain receives and responds to information. It can sometimes cause Kobe to not be aware that he needs the bathroom until the very last minute.

My son was like I really need to go  Im going to pee my pants, Sasaki, a professional dancer and actress who lives in Washington Heights, told The Post. It was an emergency.

Desperate, the fast-acting mom shielded her little boy as he pulled down his pants to quickly urinate.

Moments later, five or six parks officers approached Sasaki, and, she said, hounded her.

I was bewildered and very confused. [One] aggressively told me that this was illegal and not okay to use the bathroom outside, said Sasaki.

Sasaki was issued a summons on Saturday with a $50 fine and a hearing date of July, 2. I did observe the respondent allowing her child to urinate on parks property, next to the public bathroom, the summons, obtained by the Post, reads. Michiko Sasaki

My son was like I really need to go  Im going to pee my pants, Sasaki, a professional dancer and actress who lives in Washington Heights, told The Post. It was an emergency. Emmy Park for NY Post

He said, Let me see your ID, Im writing you a ticket. My jaw dropped  I was frozen. I didnt know what to say. I said, Youre writing me a ticket for what? You cannot have a playground and not have bathrooms.

Sasaki reluctantly complied and was handed a summons with a $50 fine, with a hearing date of July, 2.

I did observe the respondent allowing her child to urinate on parks property, next to the public bathroom, the summons, obtained by the Post, reads.

A spokesperson for the New York City Parks Department told The Post, Public urination in parks is prohibited, and we ask everyone to use the designated facilities provided. Emmy Park for NY Post

One of the officers questioned her parenting choices and motioned at a building  where the upscale restaurant The View is located  as somewhere she should have gone for a bathroom.

They were extremely rude, they were very brash and diminishing. Phrases like, how do you not get your child to go to the bathroom beforehand. He told me, your child is old enough to hold it,  said Sasaki, who noted that restaurants dont typically want people who arent patrons using the bathroom.

It was, she said, absolutely insane.

But, she noted, its all too common in her her daily life.

Sasaki told The Post a male park officer shamed her with unsolicited parenting advice when she explained her sons bathroom emergency and questioned why the public restroom was closed off. They were extremely rude, she said. Emmy Park for NY Post

This is not just a Battery Park issue. As a parent, we struggle with public bathrooms every single day, she explained.

Many restaurants, coffeeshops and bars that once allowed the public to use their restrooms no longer do.

Only food establishments that have 20 or more seats and opened after 1977 are required to have bathrooms for customers, according to the Official Website of the City of New York. Food establishments are not required to allow public access to their employee toilets, and customers cannot walk through food storage or prep areas to get to a bathroom.

This is not just a Battery Park issue. As a parent, we struggle with public bathrooms every single day, Sasaki told The Post. Emmy Park for NY Post

A spokesperson for the New York City Parks Department told The Post two other public restrooms, located in the back of the concession building and on the North West corner of the park off Battery Place, were available for use last weekend.

We want every New Yorker to be able to enjoy our parks and feel comfortable in them, which is why NYC Parks maintains more than 1,600 public restrooms across the five boroughs for the benefit of the public and the health of our city, the spokesperson said. Public urination in parks is prohibited, and we ask everyone to use the designated facilities provided.

But, those alternative facilities were on the opposite side of where Sasaki and her son were playing  and, she said, none of the parks officers mentioned those restrooms as a potential alternative.

Sasaki plans to fight the citation. Emmy Park for NY Post

In 2017, New York City introduced the Criminal Justice Reform Act, which decriminalized petty offenses such as urinating in public. Its now a civil offense, punishable with fines of up to $450, instead of criminal citations.

Sasaki is hoping to fight her ticket and not pay it.

Sure its $50, and thats not a lot, but its the principle. Im not saying we should all go out and pee on the side walks, thats not okay for adults, she said. However, it was a child in an emergency situation.
O.J. Simpson's 'Trial of the Century' Put Black People Against White PeopleAnd We Won. But at What Cost?

Daily News front page dated Oct. 4, 1995, Headlines: HOME FREE, After senational double-murder acquittal O.J. walks back into mansion a free man., Al Cowlings, left, and unidentified man, flank O.J. as he walks around his Brentwood estate. - Image: NY Daily News Archive (Getty Images)

Thirty years ago, before viral was a thing and social media gave us countless things on which to focus, we basically all had one device  a television  to keep us hooked to the single most compelling event in the 1990s: The O.J. Simpson Murder Trial.



There was no Black Twitter/X to confirm it at the time, but the temperature was obvious: Black folks largely sided with Simpson, who died of cancer Wednesday evening at 76, during the trial.

Back in June 1994  the summer before I entered eighth grade  I came downstairs to see my father glued to the television watching A.C. Cowlings driving Simpson (who was allegedly holding a gun to his head) in whats now the most famous white Ford Bronco of all time for what became the most famous slow-speed police chase of all time.





Flashback: Infamous OJ Simpson Ford Bronco police chase, June 17, 1994. pic.twitter.com/xhRqeXqdrW  New York Post (@nypost) April 11, 2024

I was not yet imbued with the knowledge that Black men running from the cops at any speed was no good, but I was captivated just the same.

Because he kept the family television glued to the E! Network every evening, pops basically forced me to pay attention to the nearly year-long Trial of the Century. It occurred during a racially turbulent time in the countryjust a couple years after the Los Angeles Police Departments beating of Rodney King and the subsequent L.A. riots.

When Simpsons defense team revealed that LAPD detective Mark Fuhrman was dropping N-bombs on tape, Black folks knew that he and his team were not to be trusted. The argument that Fuhrman planted gloves to nail Simpson  and the latters famous failure to fit said gloves  were the cherries on top that we needed to believe Simpson was an innocent man.

The lead detective in the OJ Simpson case-Mark Fuhrman, who was a white supremacist, and was on tape admitting to planting evidence on innocent Black people, took the stand and said this when asked if he planted evidence in the OJ case #OJwasInnocent pic.twitter.com/F3XRxK8HJ8  Tariq Nasheed  (@tariqnasheed) April 11, 2024

In my Black city of Detroit, defense attorney Johnnie Cochran was a borderline deity; his Dream Team, which included Robert Shapiro, Alan Dershowitz and Robert Kardashian (years before his ex-wife and their devil spawn took over the zeitgeist), were heroes.

Meanwhile, prosecutor Marcia Clark was the enemy, constantly clowned in the tabloid media for her frumpy sartorial choices and generally unsexy appearance during a time when the Baywatch babe was still a thing. Christopher Darden was a sellout the likes of Ben Carson post 2013: a successful Black man trying to take down another successful Black man.

As a high school freshman, I remember the cheers from students in the other classroom the moment Simpsons not guilty verdict was read Oct. 7, 1995. I also remember news outlets at the time making a point to show the contrasting reactions of white audiences and Black audiences as the verdict was read: cheering versus bleeped-out swearing.

Of course, time and more than a few mind-numbingly ridiculous moves on the part of the Juice have made Black folks reconsider our position on his guilt. But his exoneration was a middle-finger to the racist legal system and made us feel like winners  even if for a little while.

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Oakland airport is adding 'San Francisco' to its name. SF is appalled.

Oakland officials voted to add "San Francisco" to their city's airport name.

San Francisco is not having it.

Oakland officials say the name change would bring more travelers to their airport, bolstering the city's economy.

Oakland Airport wants what San Francisco has  its name.

The Port of Oakland's Board of Commissioners decided in a unanimous vote on Thursday to change the name of their airport from "Metropolitan Oakland International Airport" to "San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport."

Oakland officials argue that because the name change would more accurately represent the airport's location in the San Francisco Bay, it would increase the airport's traffic, and in turn, bolster the city's economy.

The Port of Oakland estimated in an agenda report that the name change, which would not alter the airport's three-letter code "OAK," would cost $150,000 to implement.

Port officials in Oakland argued that their airport is just as close, if not closer, to many parts of San Francisco as San Francisco's SFO is, when traveling via the Bay Area Rapid Transit system.

But, San Francisco officials don't want to share.

Ahead of Oakland's Thursday vote, San Francisco's city attorney David Chiu posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the name change "would cause immense confusion for travelers and infringes on SFO's trademark."

"If these plans are not abandoned, SF will take legal action," he added. Chiu also wrote a letter to the Oakland Port's Board President and other officials urging them to reconsider.

San Francisco's mayor, London Breed, also formally voiced her opposition in a letter to Oakland officials, taking the time to throw a bit of shade at OAK.

"We encourage Oakland Airport to follow a similar model to SFO and grow its airport services rather than adding 'San Francisco' to its name," Breed wrote.

"Oakland is a great city with a rich history," she added. "It does not need the name San Francisco as part of its airport to stand out."

But Oakland officials say the city actually really does need it.

"I think 30,000 jobs and tax revenue is on the line," Oakland Port board member Yui Hay Lee said before the vote, according to The Wall Street Journal. "The bottom line is we really have no choice. Doing nothing is not an option."

The city of Oakland  which has a population of over 400,000 people, according to the US Census Bureau  has faced serious financial setbacks in recent years.

After closing its largest ever budget shortfall, a deficit of about $360 million last summer, the city has since found a $177 million hole in its two-year fiscal plan, the San Francisco Chronicle reported in March.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(KRON)  The Oakland Port Commissioners voted Thursday to move forward with a name change to the Oakland airport. The new name would be the San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport.

The name change is not yet finalized. A final vote will happen on May 9 after the commission consults more people.

SF threatens legal action over Oakland airport proposed name change

The commissioners vote on Thursday was unanimous. A rebrand would cost the airport about $150,000, the commissioners said. Its letter code will remain OAK in any circumstance.

The reason for the change is to increase visibility for the airport. Officials say some travelers are unaware of Oaklands location, causing them to fly into SFO even if their destination is closer to Oakland.

We are standing up for Oakland and the East Bay; this will boost inbound travelers geographic awareness of the airport by highlighting the airports location on the San Francisco Bay, said Port Commission President Barbara Leslie.

According to Craig Simon, the Port of Oaklands interim aviation director, the airport has lost 39 of the 54 routes that have been added to the airport since mid-2008.

Market research and interviews with airline partners have shown that routes have not performed as well as they should have due to the lack of geographic awareness, making air carriers reluctant to sustain and add new routes in Oakland, he said.

The idea of a name change has not sat well with some people, particularly San Francisco officials. Their concern is that having San Francisco in the Oakland airports name will confuse travelers.

We are disappointed that Oakland did not take the opportunity to work collaboratively with us to develop alternative names and to avoid litigation. We will have further updates in the coming days, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu said to KRON4 Thursday.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Oakland officials have decided to press ahead with renaming the citys airport San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, despite San Franciscos threats to sue.

The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners on Thursday unanimously voted to approve the change. A second vote to give final approval to the new name is expected to take place May 9.

The Oakland As Fiasco Shows Team Owners Are Never the Good Guys

Oakland officials have argued that people unfamiliar with the Bay Area are flying into San Francisco even if their ultimate destination is closer to the airport currently named Oakland International Airport. Adding San Francisco to the airports name, they say, would help to rectify the problem.

We are standing up for Oakland and the East Bay; this will boost inbound travelers geographic awareness of the airport by highlighting the airports location on the San Francisco Bay, Port Commission President Barbara Leslie said in a statement following Thursdays vote.

This name will make it clear that OAK [Oaklands airport code] is the closest major airport, for 4.1 million people, three national laboratories, the top public university in the country, and Californias Wine Country.

Once final approval is granted for the name change next month, staff will move forward with the formal renaming, including working with air carriers, other airports, and local agencies to reflect the modification in airport and airline systems, the port commission said. The OAK airport code and visual brand of the airport will remain the same, the commission added.

Across the Bay, San Francisco officials have been appalled by the proposed name change. San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu told KNTV on Monday that the renaming would cause immense confusion and chaos for travelersespecially visitors who do not speak or read English.

Chiu added that the current proposal infringes on SFOs trademarks, referring to San Francisco International Airport. In a letter Monday to the Port of Oakland Commission, Chiu alleged that the rebrand appeared to be intended to intentionally divert travelers who may be unfamiliar with the relevant geography and asked the Oakland officials to reconsider.

If the Port of Oakland instead elects to proceed with the proposed name change, then unfortunately the City will have no choice other than to pursue necessary legal action, Chiu wrote, according to KNTV. That action would reportedly include trademark infringement and dilution claims under state and federal law.

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Officer and 18-year-old killed in gunfire exchange in Memphis, police say. Tragic

A call about a suspicious vehicle led to a shootout that left a Memphis police officer and an 18-year-old dead, Tennessee authorities said.

A 17-year-old and another officer with the Memphis Police Department were hospitalized for their injuries, police said. A third officer was grazed by a bullet.

Interim Memphis Police Chief C.J. Davis identified the slain officer as Joseph McKinney, who joined the department in 2020. The 18-year-old who was killed has not been identified.

As chief of police, I am hurt right now, Davis said in a news conference broadcast by WREG. Today we are here, not just to talk about what happened last night, but to make an appeal to our community that gun violence has to stop.

At about 2 a.m. April 12, officers responded to a call in southwest Memphis about a suspicious vehicle, the Memphis Police Department said in a news release.

As the officers approached the vehicle, they were fired upon, according to police.

They returned fire, then the vehicle fled the scene and made it less than a mile before it stopped, police said.

One suspect was taken into custody right away while another fled and was taken into custody nearby, Davis said.

Both were taken to a hospital in critical condition, where the 18-year-old driver died.

Memphis Mayor Paul Young called for urgent action to solve the issue of gun violence in the city.

Our young people are dependent on us to get this right, he said in the news conference. And we need urgent action from this whole community.

Tennessee State Rep. Justin Pearson also extended condolences to McKinneys family in a news release.

His death is yet another tragic and preventable outcome of gun violence, Pearson said. I am grateful for Officer McKinneys service, saddened by his ultimate sacrifice and pray for comfort, healing and justice for all who cherish his memory.

Gun violence in the US

Thousands of people die every year from firearm injuries in the U.S. each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Firearm injuries are a serious public health problem, officials said. In 2020, there were 45,222 firearm-related deaths in the United States  thats about 124 people dying from a firearm-related injury each day.

Firearm-related injuries were one of the top leading causes of death for people ages 1 to 44 in 2020, the CDC reported.

More than half of firearm-related deaths were suicides and more than 4 out of every 10 were firearm homicides, the CDC says.

The impact of gun violence, however, goes beyond the death toll, experts said.

The effects of firearm violence extend beyond victims and their families, according to the CDC. Shooting incidents, including those in homes, schools, houses of worship, workplaces, shopping areas, on the street or at community events can affect the sense of safety and security of entire communities and impact everyday decisions.

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Law enforcement officers responded Wednesday morning after a fatal shooting by members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in the 6600 block of West William Cannon Drive, just east of the Y in Oak Hill in Southwest Austin.

Multiple members of the U.S. Marshals Service's Lone Star Fugitive Task Force shot and killed a man in Southwest Austin on Wednesday morning after serving him a warrant, two officials with first-hand knowledge told the American-Statesman.

The task force includes local, state and federal agencies.

Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force attempted to serve a warrant to a male suspect residing at an apartment complex near West William Cannon Drive. He fled the task force to the 6600 block of West William Cannon, in a blue Honda Accord, where he exited the vehicle and confronted officers with a weapon, Deon Cockrell, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Safety said.

Cockrell said the Texas Rangers, part of the Texas Department of Public Safety, will be leading the investigation. It's unclear whether Austin police officers had any involvement in the shooting.

The name of the person who was killed was not released.

Capt. Darren Noak, a public information officer with Austin-Travis County EMS, said medics responded to a gunshot wound call at 10:52 a.m. in the 6600 block of West William Cannon Drive, just east of the Y in Oak Hill.

The Austin Police Department posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that a public information officer was responding to the scene of the shooting.

This is a developing story. Check back later for more updates.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: U.S. marshals shoot, kill man in Southwest Austin on Wednesday
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Law enforcement and government officials from across the Mid-South are honoring the Memphis Police officer who was killed in the line of duty Friday morning.

Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney was shot and killed during an overnight shootout in southwest Memphis.

Memphis Police officer and suspect dead after shootout; multiple officers injured

According to MPD, the shooting took place around 2 a.m. on Hewlett Road and Horn Lake Road while officers were responding to a report of a suspicious vehicle.

A second officer was taken to a hospital but has been upgraded to non-critical condition. A third officer who was grazed by gunfire was treated at the scene.

McKinney leaves behind a wife and a daughter.

As Chief of Police, I am hurt right now and once again senseless deaths in our community by gun violence, Interim Memphis Police Chief CJ Davis said. Were disturbed by the boldness and use of weapons in just all these situations that were seeing in our community. We have a family thats grieving now. We have a wife thats grieving now.

Memphis Police say two suspects were involved in the shooting, and one of them was killed. The suspect who was killed is identified as 18-year-old Jaylen Lobley. A second suspect, age 17, also was injured and is in critical condition.

We stand with those families whove been lost to violence, Memphis Mayor Paul Young said. To MPD, our officers are hurting our heart goes out to them and their families and we mourn together.

McKinney began working at the Memphis Police Department in 2020. The department says that McKinney graduated from the Training Academy in July 2020 and was assigned to the Mt. Moriah Station. He was later transferred to the Raines Station.

Flags now fly at half-staff there in front of the building while neighbors come by to offer their condolences.

Officer McKinney leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly and an MPD family that will push on to honor his memory, the department said in a statement.

The Memphis Police Department says McKinneys squad car will be parked outside of the Raines Station at 791 Station Friday afternoon for those who wish to pay their respects to him.

Many people, including MPD and government officials, took to social media to express their condolences.

Rusty Mckinney was one of my primary rookies and this affects me differently, said Udell Shelton with MPD in a Facebook post. Im hurt and devastated by this. I always tell my rookies, Make me proud in your line of work. Today, McKinney made the ultimate sacrifice and for that, Ill salute him forever. Praying for his wife, child, and family.

Maria & I are deeply saddened by the death of Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney while serving in the line of duty, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee said in a post on X. Our prayers are with Officer McKinneys family, the recovering officers & the Memphis law enforcement community.

I am heartbroken to learn that Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney was murdered in the line of duty while protecting and serving Tennesseans. My prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn said in a Facebook post.

State Senator Brent Taylor also released a statement Friday, saying, Please join me in praying for the family of MPD Officer Joseph McKinney, who was murdered last night in the line of duty. I will do everything in my power to bring transparency to what occurred and why these violent criminals were on our streets. Enough is enough.

McKinney was a graduate of Munford High School. The school released a statement Friday afternoon.

Suspect dead after shootout with police had been arrested, released in March, records show

Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy says that Lobleys case was consistent with his violent crime initiative, stating individuals found with stolen cars and guns or found with Glock switches can pose a danger and must be dealt with accordingly. Mulroy issued a statement Friday.

Jaylen Lobley was released in March on ROR with various conditions including reporting and curfew. This bond was granted by a Shelby County Judicial Commissioner following a hearing where our office strongly argued against lowering the bond, citing the defendants danger to the community. Despite our arguments, the Commissioner approved the ROR bond. My office was actively prioritizing the Lobley case, identifying him as a high-risk offender, and reviewing his file as part of our Project Safe Neighborhoods state-federal partnership. Even though Lobley was a first-time offender, his case had been accepted for Federal prosecution. Im deeply saddened by Officer Joseph McKinneys passing and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues at MPD. We trust the TBI to conduct a thorough investigation. Once its concluded, well review the findings to determine appropriate next steps.

Representative David Kustoff made a post on X saying, Roberta and I are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of MPD Officer Joseph McKinney. Please join us in praying for the swift recovery of the two additional officers who were shot in the line of duty this morning. During this time, Officer McKinneys family and the entire MPD will remain in our thoughts.

Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner also released a statement on X.

I was deeply grieved upon hearing the news that Memphis police officer Joseph McKinney lost his life during a shooting incident this morning in south Memphis. On behalf of all the men and women of the Shelby County Sheriffs Office, I offer our prayers and deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the Memphis Police Department. We are thankful that the other two officers injured are going to be okay and are healing from their injuries. We pray they will have a speedy recovery. Officer McKinney died protecting the citizens of Memphis and Shelby County and we are truly heartbroken.

Our prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of fallen Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney as well as the officers injured in the line of fire last night, the Tennessee Attorney Generals Office said in a post on X. Our office stands with our law enforcement community and the City of Memphis, and we pray for a swift recovery for those injured officers.

Mayor Paul Young released a full statement Friday afternoon:

Today, we are grieving for the family of Officer Joseph McKinney and also for all of the women and men in Blue who put their lives on the line in defense of our community every day. We are heartbroken for the families of those lost to this senseless and needless act of violence and for the far too many others that have come before. Enough is enough. We simply must do more to hold violent offenders accountable, even when they are teenagers. We must do more to protect our community  our entire community. Today, we stand with the loved ones of the victims of violence caused by illegal weapons. With the heaviest of hearts, we mourn together. And, together, we must align our grief with action. We cannot wait for someone else to do it. We must demand tougher gun laws. We must demand sentencing that mirrors our love for our community. Sometimes, that love needs to be tough love. As a community, we need to ensure that our young people are making better choices. The 18-year-old suspect in this case was caught a month ago on the same charges: stolen car and illegal weapons. He was released on his own recognizance. Together, lets petition our judges and the DA for stronger, swifter sentencing for violent offenses. If you are part of the judicial system, hear my voice first. We need to work together to do better for our community. Together, lets petition our neighbors to be responsible weapon owners. If you are a gun owner, manage that weapon responsibly. If you are a gun owner, make the promise to never leave that weapon in your car. Full stop. Officer Joseph McKinney chose to wear the Memphis Police Department uniform. He chose to serve his city. On his behalf, and in honor of the choices made by every man and woman who wears the uniform, I ask you to join me in action. Lets make certain that Officer Joseph McKinneys brave choices stand for something greater.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Click here to view the video

Canada's federal government is warning of the potential for a "catastrophic wildfire season."

In a Wednesday press conference on the subject of the 2024 wildfire season forecast, Canadian Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan said ongoing drought, low snowpack levels, and a forecast for warmer-than-average spring weather are combining to create high wildfire risk (seasonal forecasts are not predictors of actual fire activity) for a large swath of the country.

Natural Resources Canada | This map shows predictions of fire weather severity in Canada.

This map shows predictions of fire weather severity in Canada. (Source: Natural Resources Canada)

With the heat and dryness across the country, we expect the wildfire season will start sooner and end later, and potentially be more explosive, Sajjan said.

RELATED: Smoky summer is expected in parts of Canada as wildfire season begins

The government highlighted southern Quebec, eastern Ontario and Western Canada as being particularly at risk, though Sajjan noted that there is still time for the weather to make a difference.

The federal government touted a number of preparatory measures Wednesday, promising continued funding for firefighting equipment, firefighter training, and for advance payments for communities including First Nations to help them develop protection and evacuation plans ahead of emergencies.

Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu added the government will fund 48 new emergency management coordinators for Alberta First Nations, and said the government has been collaborating with First Nations to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into wildfire preparedness and management strategies.

80 per cent of First Nations communities face risks related to wildfires, Hajdu said.

Connor O'Donovan: Alberta wildfire firefighter, official for fires, fire, wildfires

Alberta Wildfire is warning Albertans to use extreme caution in forested areas in the coming weeks, as snowpack melts away. (Connor ODonovan/The Weather Network)

SEE ALSO: Alberta wildfire season is off to a blazing start, over 50 fires burning

Meanwhile, Alberta Wildfire has put all of the provinces protected forest areas under a fire advisory.

While widespread advisories arent unusual at this time of year and they dont explicitly ban fires (safe campfires are still permitted and existing fire permits are still valid, though new permits will be approved only when considered essential), Alberta Wildfire says they are warranted this year by the emergence of exceptionally volatile conditions.

Government of Alberta | Government of Alberta data shows significantly lower than normal winter precipitation in large parts of the northern half of the province.

Government of Alberta data shows significantly lower than normal winter precipitation in large parts of the northern half of the province. (Source: Government of Alberta)

While some parts of the province have experienced near-record snowfall in recent weeks, Albertas northern boreal forestwhere most of its large wildfires occurhas seen below-normal precipitation this winter, according to Alberta government data. Seasonal forecasts are predicting a warmer than average spring season too. The spring of 2023 also came early, as the hottest May on record for much of the province served as a catalyst for a record wildfire season.

As a precautionary measure, the Alberta government has announced new wildfire management investments this year, including plans to hire 100 additional wildland firefighters, increase the use of nighttime firefighting operations, and declare an early start to wildfire season in February.

March 31, 2024: Canada's Drought Monitor

Drought conditions across Canada as of March 31, 2024. "SL" represents short-term drought, typically less than 6 months (e.g., agriculture, grasslands). "L" represents the region of a long-term drought over 6 months (e.g., hydrology, ecology). (Source: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)

DON'T MISS: Albertans 'on edge' as focus shifts to 2024 wildfire season

On April 11, Albertas wildfire dashboard showed 53 active fires in the province, which includes carryover fires from 2023.

In total, the 2023 wildfire season saw more than 2.2 million hectares of forest burned in Albertafar and away the biggest burn on record. The five-year average, according to Alberta Wildfire, is around 207,000 hectares.

Canada-wide, over 17 million hectares were burned in 2023, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre. Eight firefighters lost their lives.

WATCH: How much drier has this winter been compared to last winter?

Click here to view the video

(Header image courtesy of Kyle Brittain, provided to The Weather Network)
HOUSTON, April 12 (Xinhua) -- One person was killed and at least 13 others were injured after a stolen semitrailer rammed into a Department of Public Safety office on Friday in Brenham, a rural town about 75 miles away from Houston, the largest city in the U.S. state of Texas, authorities said.

Eight of the injured were treated on the scene and released, while six others, including the fatality, were transported to local hospitals.

The driver, identified as 42-year-old Clenard Parker, was uninjured and was taken into custody, said the Texas Department of Public Safety at a news conference.

The department said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that "there are reports of multiple serious injuries" but didn't provide more details.

After the arrest, "there is no further threat to the community," the department said.

SkyEye video showed extensive damage to the front of the office and the 18-wheeler.

Parker was denied his commercial driver's license at the Department of Public Safety office in Brenham Thursday afternoon, local media reported. 
Ohio Uber driver killed in shooting after being sent to pick up scammers package

SOUTH CHARLESTON, Ohio (WCMH)  Deputies in Clark County have arrested a man in his 80s accused of murdering an Uber driver while both were being targeted by a scam call.

William Brock, 81, faces a felony charge of murder with additional counts possible, according to the Clark County Sheriffs Office. Investigators accused him of shooting Lo-Letha Hall multiple times on March 25 after she went to his house on an Uber assignment.

Investigators first came to Brocks property, about four miles west of South Charleston in Clark County, when he called them and said he shot someone attempting a robbery. The sheriffs office said when deputies and multiple other agencies arrived, they found Hall on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds, and Brock with injuries to his head and an ear.

William Brock. (Courtesy Photo/Clark County Sheriffs Office)

Former Upper Arlington teacher accused of rape sentenced with no sex offender registration

Earlier, a male scammer had called Brock and told him one of his relatives was in jail. The scammer then threatened the 81-year-old man and demanded money. Simultaneously, that same scammer or an accomplice placed an order on the Uber app for Hall to pick up a package for delivery from Brocks property. She wasnt aware of the calls Brock had received when she arrived at his home, according to investigators.

The Uber driver was unarmed, did not make any threats or demands and did not attack Brock. Hall only approached Brocks home and asked about the package she was sent to pick up through the app, the sheriffs office said. In response, Brock pulled out a revolver and held her at gunpoint, demanding to know the identities of the scammers. He also took Halls phone to prevent her from making calls, and the sheriffs office said Brock did not call 911 either.

Lo-Letha Halls dashcam in her car captured her attempting to leave as William Brock held her at gunpoint. (Courtesy Photo/Clark County Sheriffs Office)

When Hall tried to get in her car to get away, Brock shot her. During a struggle between the two at the car door, he shot her two more times, investigators noted. After this exchange, Brock called 911.

One dead after car with bullet holes found at Ohio States Wexner Medical Center

Deputies arrested Brock on the murder charge because they said Hall did not present any active threat during the encounter, nor did Brock try to summon help during their interaction.

The Clark County Sheriffs Office released a video recorded by a dashcam in Halls car, which captured her approaching Brocks home, then trying to leave as he followed her and pointed the gun at her.

Hall was 61 years old. In an obituary, she was listed as a Columbus native. Her funeral service took place April 5 at a church on the Northeast Side.

The Clark County Sheriffs Office said it is now investigating the scam calls and Uber app order that led to the shooting, and looking for the man or accomplices that coordinated the incident.

Records from Clark County Municipal Court showed Brock pleaded not guilty to the murder charge in a Wednesday arraignment hearing. If convicted, he faces up to a $15,000 fine and between 15 years to life in prison.

After the arraignment hearing, Brock posted a bond set at $200,000. Records showed his next court date would be a preliminary hearing on April 22.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
A woman accused of killing her husband earlier this month is entering an insanity plea.

>>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Woman formally charged, accused of killing her husband in Butler County

Pamela Harville, 65, entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity this week, according to Butler County Common Pleas court documents.

News Center 7 previously reported that she is facing two counts of murder, aggravated murder, and two counts of felonious assault for allegedly killing her husband.

Butler County Sheriffs deputies were called to a Reilly Township home on April 2 for a welfare check when they found an unresponsive man.

Harville is accused of shooting her husband several times with a firearm and striking him in the body and head which caused his death, court records said.

>>RELATED: Woman accused of shooting her husband charged with murder

Her defense is requesting a competency evaluation which normally takes six weeks to complete.

Harville is being held without bond in Butler County Jail until her competency is determined.

Her next scheduled court appearance is May 21.
OJ Simpson dies after prostate cancer diagnosis: What to know about PSA screening

O.J. Simpson died at 76 following a diagnosis of prostate cancer, which is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths according to the American Cancer Association.

In May 2023, Simpson posted a video on X, then known as Twitter, revealing that he had recently "caught cancer" and "had to do the whole chemo thing." He added, "It looks like I beat it." Simpson didn't specify the nature of the cancer at the time.

In February, it was revealed Simpson was getting chemo for prostate cancer treatment.

PHOTO: O.J. Simpson at the Expo Center Edison in Edison, N.J., March 31, 2006. (Bobby Bank/WireImage/Getty Images)

Like many cancers, early detection is key. Prostate cancer can be screened for with a blood test called Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). The goal of screening is to catch cancer before symptoms present and can be done during medical check-ups.

The good news is for most, prostate cancer does not have to be life-threatening.

MORE: OJ Simpson, former football star acquitted of murder, dies at 76

"A man who gets prostate cancer even if they have high risk, they are usually treatable," said Dr. Vipul Patel, Medical Director of the Global Robotics Institute, Executive Director of the Society for Robotic Surgery, and the Founder of the International Prostate Cancer Foundation.

But the PSA screening test isn't perfect, and right now, screening is not recommended for everyone. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which helps establish standards for screening tests, says the decision to screen people aged 55-69 for prostate cancer should be a choice between the individual and their healthcare provider.

"PSA is not the perfect test to diagnose prostate cancer, but it is the simplest test we actually have available...PSA was picking up a lot of men who had prostate cancer, but it was also picking up patients who didn't have prostate cancer," said Patel.

After a high PSA is detected, a doctor may call for a biopsy. However, there are risks of complications such as infection or bleeding. He notes that hopefully as screening technology improves with tools like MRI and other blood tests, the unnecessary harm will also decrease.

When making the decision of when to screen someone for prostate cancer, clinicians also consider the risk of someone developing prostate cancer. Some groups, including Black Americans, have a higher risk. Black men and women are more likely to die from prostate, uterine and breast cancer compared to other races, according to recent data from the American Cancer Society.

Some providers choose to pursue testing as early as 40 in those of high risk, which include those with "any family history of prostate cancer, specifically, if there's a first degree relative, so a father or brother, that has a history or a diagnosis of prostate canceror men that are of African American descent," said Dr. Seixas-Mikelus who specializes in Urologic Oncology and Robotic Surgery at The Urology Clinic in Sumter, South Carolina.

MORE: Video Staying fit could help reduce risk of prostate cancer, study shows

Notably, the USPSTF does not recommend screening over the age of 70. "As men age, prostates get larger, and in general PSAs can rise just based on age," said Patel.

Additionally, while screening is designed to detect and treat aggressive prostate cancer, not all identified prostate cancer will require treatment, especially as they age.

"Prostate cancer, in the majority of the instances, is often a very slow growing, potentially non-lethal cancer. And so as men get older, the value of screening becomes less and lesswhat is the risk of dying of prostate cancer versus what is the risk from some of these other medical problems?" said Dr. Manish Vira, System Chief of Urology at Northwell Health Cancer Institute.

However, recommendations for screening do not apply if a patient develops symptoms.

"If a patient comes in with urinary symptoms, blood in the urine, pelvic pain... Now, we're not talking about screening, we're talking about diagnostic evaluation," said Vira.

The USPSTF is currently reviewing the guidelines for prostate cancer screening and recommendations may change in the next few years.

"We care deeply about ensuring that men have the best information available to them.science and medicine are constantly advancing, so we are committed to updating our recommendations on a regular basis. We began updating our recommendation on screening for prostate cancer in late 2023 and are working to move it through our rigorous recommendation development process efficiently," said Dr. John Wong, Vice-Chair of the Task Force.

Dr. Camry Kelly, DO is a member of the ABC Medical News Unit and is Chief Resident at Mayo Clinic Family Medicine Residency Program in Rochester, Minnesota.

Dr. Ashley Yoo, MD is a member of the ABC Medical News Unit and an Internal Medicine Resident at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C.

OJ Simpson dies after prostate cancer diagnosis: What to know about PSA screening originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
This rendering shows what the exterior of the new county jail could look like if it were built at 1901 E Grand. It was shown publicly for a first time on April 11, 2024. Provided by Oklahoma County. (Credit: Oklahoma County)

A decision on the site for the new Oklahoma County jail now rests in the hands of the Oklahoma City Council.

Oklahoma City's planning commission voted narrowly Thursday to send an approval recommendation to the City Council on a special use permit request for a new jail at 1901 E Grand.

At-large Commissioner Rusty LaForge put forward the recommendation, saying a future jail's location would draw opposition, no matter where it might be.

"Nobody wants it anywhere," LaForge said. "Oklahoma City is in the center of the county. This (location) is relatively in the center of the city. The experts (HOK, the jail project's lead architect) have looked at it and deemed it to be the best location. We can talk about the factors  the negatives and the pros  but the fact is, this came out the highest rated spot.

"We have got to get moving, have got to build a new jail."

LaForge's motion was was supported by Ward 5 Commissioner Bobby Newman, Ward 8 Commissioner Don Noble and Ward 3 Commissioner Jeremy Meek.

Camal Pennington, the Commission's Ward 7 representative and its chairman, voted against the motion, saying he felt like the city and county did not work together to find a location everyone could support.

"I am for putting the public first, and I think a more robust and transparent public process  and a greater collaboration between our city and county leaders  should have been done prior to this application being made," Pennington said.

Oklahoma City's Planning Commission on Thursday, April 11, 2024, narrowly recommended approval of a special use permit that would allow a jail to be built here at 1901 E Grand.

"That having been said, I am adamantly opposed to a continuance because I think that a matter of this urgent concern is worthy of our elected officials to be immediately taking action.

"No neighbors in Del City, or in the great city of Oklahoma City, want to be subjected to having to wait any longer to find out what is going to happen with this situation."

Ward 2 Commissioner Janis Powers and Ward 4 Commissioner Mike Privett also voted against LaForge's approval recommendation. Two other commissioners, Nate Clair representing Ward 1 and Dan Govin representing Ward 6, did not attend the meeting.

Commissioners took their vote Thursday after watching presentations from David Box, the attorney representing owners of the land  Willowbrook Investments LLC and Garrett & Co. Resources  and HOK, the lead architect hired to design the jail.

Commissioners also were addressed by representatives of the City of Del City, Rick Cobb, superintendent of Midwest City-Del City Public Schools, criminal justice advocates and concerned neighbors.

Representatives of businesses located closest to the jail's location did not appear to either support or oppose the permit request.

The recommendation will be introduced to Oklahoma City's council when it meets later this month, but it won't actually vote on the special use permit request until it meets in mid-May.

This rendering shown for the first time publicly on April 11, 2024 illustrates HOK's conceptual interior design plans for a new jail at 1901 E Grand and also shows where an adjacent behavioral health center would be located. (Credit: Oklahoma County)

HOK explains rationale for choosing 1901 E Grand location

Box made brief remarks on the behalf of Willowbrook and Garrett before introducing Curt Pardee, a principal with HOK, who told the planning commission it recommended the Grand Boulevard location as the best available spot for a jail after looking at 20 different sites.

HOK evaluated each site by ranking its size, topography (flat is better than hilly), soil quality, its number of owners, its purchase cost, the availability of water, sewer, electrical and natural gas services, its accessibility to nearby roads and if it had sufficient room, Pardee said.

To start with, it needed to be large enough to allow for the new jail to be designed and built out horizontally, eliminating the need for elevators to move detainees inside the new jail from one area to another. A horizontal design also would give detainees in each 56-person detention unit access to an outdoor area for recreation, plus allow room for an adjacent behavioral health center on the same land.

Design plans also currently call for including programming space where detainees could take classes or attend meetings to help them further their educations or work on improving their life skills and at least two courtrooms inside the building, where judges and court staffs could handle routine matters on-site instead of at the courthouse downtown.

A jail of that type, he said, also would take less time and less money to build, plus be less expensive to operate than the jail Oklahoma County has today.

Curt Pardee, director of architecture, presents plans for the proposed new Oklahoma County Detention Center at Thursday's Oklahoma City Planning Commission meeting. The presentation included new renderings of the proposed jail.

Beyond that, the county needs room to expand the jail in the future as its population and potential detainee housing needs grow.

"This facility will be there a long time, so having proper planning is really important for that," Pardee said.

Jeff Bradley, the director of HOK's justice practice, told commissioners a single-story jail also is desirable because it can be designed to allow a maximum amount of natural lighting into the building.

Natural lighting, he and Pardee told them, would be beneficial for jail detainees, their guards and particularly to patients who agree to voluntarily be treated inside the adjacent behavioral health center.

Currently, county jails are the largest provider of mental health services in the nation, he remarked.

"Our overall goal is to make this (jail) a dramatically more humane environment," Bradley said.

Del City makes case a new jail's impact doesn't end at map's end

Del City Mayor Floyd Eason said he was struck that maps prepared both by the city's staff and the applicant ended with the border of Oklahoma City on Bryant Avenue.

Eason said there are 1,000 single family homes on Bryant's east side that has Del City residents his community seeks to protect.

"The developers end their world at Bryant, but that is where our world begins, and we are looking out for the citizens who live in that area  that's what we are trying to do," he said.

Scott Tatom, a member of Del City's city council, said the planning commission should delay hearing the request, asking whether Oklahoma County was conceptually trying to set up a transitional living center with its adjacent behavioral health center.

A transitional living center at that site would violate state restrictions designed to keep those away from schools, he argued. Further, he questioned why the county was not required to request a special use permit for the mental health center simultaneously, given that it technically would not be part of the jail.

"Decisions made today could impact our communities for many years and generations to come, so this decision should not be made in haste," Tatom said.

Kellie Wilbanks, assistant to Del City's city manager, told commissioners Oklahoma City shouldn't grant a special use permit until it is assured Oklahoma County officials won't make the same mistakes they did more than 30 years ago when they built the current jail.

Plus, she said the jail's current operations are concerning, and said she worried those wouldn't be solved by just a new building.

"To think we would naively approve something without having these things addressed is just crazy to me," Wilbanks said.

Blaine Nice, an attorney with Fellers Snider who has served as Del City's municipal judge for many years, told commissioners that while Box was correct in his summation a jail would be a good zoning fit for 1901 E Grand, he argued its impact would be pronounced because people who live nearby don't want it.

"This is not about the facility itself  it's great. It is about the location," Nice said.

Walter Jacques told commissioners he is a big supporter of public transportation, working with an alliance that helped bring street cars back to downtown Oklahoma City, and said he's tried to garner support in Del City for a regional transit authority that could bring rail transport to various communities around Oklahoma City.

Jacques noted that Del City and Midwest City recently dropped out of those discussions.

"I feel very strongly that placement of this jail by Oklahoma County on the border of Del City will create very bad blood and a lot of animosity, and I don't think the regional transit authority will ever see Midwest City and Del City come back into the fold as long as that jail is there."

Detainee releases concern nearby health services business, residents and planning commissioners

What would happen once a detainee is released from the jail was a constant concern brought up Thursday by Del City officials, a longtime planner who worked decades for Embark, the representative of a nonprofit who operates a half dozen care centers for developmentally disabled adults in Del City and planning commissioners themselves.

Larry Hopper, an urban planning consultant for both transit systems and land, told commissioners he would expect a bus route operating 16 hours a day between that site and downtown could cost between $300,000 and $500,000 annually.

"Who would pay those expenses?"

Commissioner Powers asked why the special use permit simply couldn't be modified to require that detainees be released downtown, instead of at the building itself.

Box explained to her he had been told that decision is made by the county's presiding judge and district attorney.

Powers said she recognized that the commission's job Thursday was to decide whether 1901 E Grand would be appropriate for a jail, not about how it functions.

"But we certainly do take cognizance of the fact this is very close to a residential area ... the idea of releasing detainees between 7 a.m. and midnight does not seem like a good idea to me this close to a residential area," she said.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Divided OKC planning commission recommends approval of controversial jail site
An Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office unit patrols the parking lot of a south Oklahoma City hotel on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022. (Credit: Nathan J. Fish, The Oklahoman)

Local voters will have just one Oklahoma County race to vote on when they go to the polls in November to select the nation's next president.

Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III, 35, was the only incumbent elected county official who drew an opponent, while County Commissioner Brian Maughan, County Clerk Maressa Treat and County Court Clerk Rick Warren were assured new terms after no one filed to run against them.

Sheriff Johnson, a Republican, will face Wayland Cubit, 54, the director of security at Oklahoma City Public Schools.

Cubit is a Democrat who ran against Johnson in 2020's general election. He lost that race by 16,000 votes.

Wayland Cubit, is running against Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III, who seeks re-election to the post in November.

Challenger focuses on youth safety as campaign issue

Cubit retired from the Oklahoma City Police Department in 2022 to take a position as Oklahoma Public Schools' security director, the Oklahoma City Free Press reported then.

When announcing his candidacy April 4, Cubit said he intends to bring respect, innovation and transparency to both the campaign and office if he is elected.

I know what our community needs. They need a sheriff who has real professional experience, who will be strong, trustworthy, and knowledgeable; but most importantly  one who will keep all of our citizens safe and protect our kids, Cubit said.

More: Oklahoma County transforming former Krowse Army Reserve building into sheriff offices

A resident of Forest Park, Cubit said he has more than 26 years of law enforcement experience in Oklahoma County, most of that on Oklahoma City's police force.

Ive been on the beat as an officer, have managed fellow officers, directed budgets, and worked outside of law enforcement as a community servant. Most importantly though, Im a father and grandfather who goes to sleep and wakes up with one priority: to keep my family and our community safe, he said.

Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III announces an arrest in the Choctaw High School shooting last Friday during a football game wit Del City. Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023

Tommie Johnson's time during first term as Oklahoma County's Sheriff eventful

Johnson, who edged out incumbent Sheriff P.D. Taylor in a primary runoff before he beat Cubit, stepped into the job just months after Taylor relinquished control of Oklahoma County's jail and its detainees to a recently formed Criminal Justice Authority.

Though Johnson's agency no longer runs the jail, he serves as a member of the public trust that oversees its operations.

Not long after he took office, Oklahoma County's Sheriff's deputies called on Oklahoma City's police to help it control a hostage situation on the county's jail's 10th floor after a detainee complaining about conditions inside the jail held a detention officer hostage. Police shot and killed the detainee as he was holding something to the officer's neck.

"Unfortunately, a life was lost to save a life," Johnson later said after reviewing videos of the altercation.

When a multicounty grand jury recommended the jail's operation be returned to the sheriff in March 2023, Johnson said while he didn't want the obligation, he would take it and "do the best damn job I possibly can" if the responsibility were forced upon him.

Outside of jail related issues, Johnson was able to get Oklahoma County's Board of County Commissioners to approve his request to buy body cameras for his deputies.

In March 2022, his deputies seized a large amount of fentanyl after stopping a suspicious vehicle on an interstate. Later that same year, he launched a multi-agency partnership to increase safety for schools in eastern parts of the county.

While his agency experienced tragedy in August 2022 when one deputy was killed and another was hurt as they attempted to serve an eviction notice in south Oklahoma City, it also celebrated the following month after a deputy who also is a doctor saved another man's life when the victim overdosed in a vehicle traveling the Kickapoo Turnpike.

In 2023, Oklahoma County's Sheriff's Office moved its dispatch center from Midwest City to to a newly built, storm-resistant building at Metro Technology Centers' South Bryant Avenue campus. Johnson said the move increased the reliability of its communications systems and boosted training opportunities for future dispatchers attending school there.

Currently, it is working with contractors to remodel the Krowse Building, its northeast Oklahoma City headquarters it moved to after the agency surrendered control of the county jail to the trust.

After taking his oath in January 2021, Johnson promised a brighter future for the agency, saying, "I look forward to pioneering a new era in law enforcement in which public safety and community respect go hand-in-hand.

He announced he would stand for re-election in a Facebook post he made in August.

"Together, we have restored trust in the sheriff's office. We have improved services and implemented new technology that keep people safe and ensure accountability, while combatting crime," Johnson said.

"We have accomplished a lot, and there is more work to do."

Three 2024 races in Oklahoma County decided after no opponents filed

Court Clerk Warren won a special election in 2016 after Court Clerk Tim Rhodes resigned to become the top administrator of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. He will serve a third, four-year term in the office.

While he didn't provide a statement to The Oklahoman about not drawing an opponent, his re-election website states he puts customer service ahead of party politics.

"There's a difference between politicians and public servants  the public servant runs to accomplish a task for the people and not just be looking for their next political opportunity," he said.

County Clerk Treat won a special election a year ago to replace David Hooten in that post after his resignation. Treat, who said it had been her honor to serve out Hooten's unexpired term, said she is excited about the future.

"Im grateful to all my supporters for making this possible. Thank you for your valued trust!" Treat said.

Commissioner Maughan, who has spent the past year struggling to find a site for a new county jail with fellow commissioners, surprisingly drew no opponent. Maughan already has served four, four-year terms as commissioner and will begin his fifth in January. This is the second time he has stood for re-election without drawing an opponent, he said.

"I'm humbled beyond words to be given another term without facing an election," he said. "I am looking forward to finishing building the new jail and continuing to expand the SHINE (Start Helping Impacted Neighborhoods Everywhere) program."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Wayland Cubit will run second time against Sheriff Johnson in November
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A man has been arrested in connection to a child abuse investigation in March, according to police.

The Oklahoma City Police Department says officers responded to an apartment complex in northwest Oklahoma City around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5. Officers responded after receiving emergency calls regarding an infant not breathing.

Duwuan Betancourt. Image courtesy OKCPD.

LOCAL NEWS: Its horrific: One arrested after man caught on camera stomping puppy

Officials say the child was taken to a nearby hospital where they died shortly after. Investigators later learned the child had injuries consistent with abuse and issued an arrest warrant for 36-year-old Duwuan Betancourt.

According to OKCPD, Betancourt was arrested by U.S. Marshals on April 11 and booked into jail on a murder complaint.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
One arrested, one wanted in connection with Evangeline Parish accordion thefts

One arrested, one wanted in connection with Evangeline Parish accordion thefts

CHATAIGNIER, La. (KLFY)  Authorities have identified two suspects, and arrested one of them, in a theft of musical insturments from Chataignier last month, authorities said.

Donald Attle, 59, of Mamou was arrested and charged with possession of stolen things and simple burglary. The other suspect, Billy Tiller, 35, of Chataignier, is still at large, authorities said.

Deputies with the Evangeline Parish Sheriffs Office received a complaint March 20 of a burglary at the 5900 block of Vine Street in Chataignier, where two Martin brand accordions were stolen. Detectives learned that two suspects went to a pawn shop in Eunice and sold the accordions, according to the EPSO.

Both bonds are set at $75,000.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Tiller is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 337-363-2161 or through the agencys website at evangelineparishsheriff.org. Any person/s reporting information will remain anonymous. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

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One hurt after being hit by car in south Charlotte, MEDIC says

One person has been seriously injured after being hit by a vehicle in south Charlotte, according to MEDIC.

The incident occurred just after 2:30 a.m. on South Tryon Street near Remount Road.

MEDIC said the victim was taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries.

ALSO READ: Man struck by car wants driver who left scene to turn themselves in

It is unclear if any charges will be filed in this case.

This is a developing story; check wsoctv.com for updates.

VIDEO: Man struck by car wants driver who left scene to turn themselves in




Ukraine is only holding back a Russian breakthrough with drones paid for by volunteers, as Western arms supplies run out, one of Kyivs top military commanders has said.

Lieutenant Colonel Pavlo Kurylenko, a commander of a separate special purpose battalion, said he believes that the lack of Western-supplied weaponry was horrible and front line units were relying on donations or sourcing drones themselves.

He warned that Russia was preparing a massive offensive for this summer and said that, without fresh deliveries of aid, Ukrainian troops would soon have to fall back to the Dnipro River.

The only thing preventing Russias breakthrough on all fronts is FPV (first-person) drones, 90 per cent of which are being provided by volunteers or military divisions themselves, Lt Col Kurylenko told The Telegraph in an interview at the end of February at a military base outside of Kyiv.

A year ago it was a bad situation. Today the situation with shells and gear is just horrible, said the commander, one of the so-called Cyborgs who fought off Kremlin forces in the battle for Donetsk airport.

Leaning forward in his chair in an office decorated with captured Russian assault rifles, Lt Col Kurylenko placed his handgun on the table and thumped his fist as he explained the struggles of his men.

A map and weapons on the wall of Pavlo Kurylenko's office

Kurylenko is honest about the disparity between the amount of ammunition his men receives and the enemy, often Russian mortar teams have three times as many projectiles as his troops.

Imagine: a column of Russian hardwear comes at you. They attack. If we shoot at them with a mortar, the next day we will have just machine guns to fire at the next column of tanks...

Across the nearly 1,000-mile front, Ukrainian soldiers are locked in a brutal war of attrition as Russia brings its superior firepower and manpower to bear.

Fighting when outnumbered is not new to Lt Col Kurylenko. In 2014, he defended Donetsk airport against Russian separatist forces in a 100-day battle that created the legend of Cyborg Ukrainian soldiers who would never give up.

Since the very beginning in 2014, until today, we have always encountered overwhelming forces in infantry, artillery and equipment, he said.

I participated in the battle of Donetsk Airport  I heard stories that it was compared to the battle of Stalingrad. It looks to me as a childish fight now, compared to what is happening today. I cant say that the Russians are fighting better or worse.

One way to overcome superior numbers, he said, is through better training  an area where Ukraines allies and friends can help.

A major pillar of allied support to Ukraine has been the training of Ukrainian soldiers by Nato-standard militaries. In January, James Heappey, the Armed Forces minister, revealed that more than 34,000 Ukrainian troops had been trained by the UK since June 2022.

The advantages of training abroad are manifold. Ukrainian soldiers can practise and learn new drills in safety, without being targeted by Russian drones and missiles. They can also benefit from world-class instruction and absorb the latest battlefield tactics from the most powerful armies in the world.

Much of the training is hugely appreciated but there are some issues that Lt Col Kurylenko is eager to address.

First, only a relatively small number of Ukrainian troops actually benefit from it. Lt Col Kurylenkos brigade has sent more than 400 men for training, 75 of whom he commands. Crucial time is wasted, he said.

We dont manage it effectively. For instance, it took my soldiers 41 days, 29 of which they used for actual training.

The trip itself, getting equipped and deployed, took 12 days. Thats half of the total period of training. We are already losing time here.

Some soldiers treat the weeks away from Ukraine  often their first break for years  as a time to relax. Those soldiers who go abroad for training look at it as some sort of holiday period, Lt Col Kurylenko said.

Ukrainian soldiers training with the Norwegian Home Guard in Norway last year - Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP

The relatively brief training is insufficient for more advanced or complex roles. To train a stormtrooper, a soldier who can work in an assault group to capture and hold an enemy trench, needs far more resources.

It is simply impossible, said Lt Col Kurylenko. Two weeks is not enough for a soldier to even believe in the fact that he has already become a stormtrooper.

He argues the West should base military trainers in Ukraine  an idea floated by Emmanuel Macron, the French president, but which sparked a backlash among Nato allies.

It will speed up the whole process a lot. We will save time for logistics or programme planning. We can select people on the ground based on an understanding of their capabilities  if they are better able to operate artillery, join the infantry, become a stormtrooper or an anti-tank specialist.

Dont worry  we will survive

Lt Col Kurylenko added: Dont you worry, we will survive anyway. The question is how hard its going to be.

Then there is the more fundamental problem of a gap between the Nato training and the way in which the war in Ukraine is actually being fought.

In Natos teaching, there is an assumption that the top-of-the-range kit needed to fight like a Nato army is readily available to Ukrainian troops. However, even at the height of Western weapons deliveries, that was not the case, Lt Col Kurylenko said.

When we speak about the Nato approach, it implies huge amounts of gear to be applied. However, it doesnt imply the scenario when such weapons are absent. Here the Nato approach doesnt have any other plan for a manoeuvre, he explained.

For Lt Col Kurylenko, at the heart of Soviet strategy is the idea that soldiers start in a defensive posture, and only gradually move to the offensive; the shift being underwritten by superior manpower and artillery. It is costly, bloody but effective, he said.

Nato on the other hand is, in a sense, more proactive, with the emphasis on manoeuvrability and a standpoint that looks to gather data and then move forward to assault. Both strategies have huge drawbacks, said Lt Col Kurylenko.

To illustrate his point, he gives the example of Ukraines loss of the town of Avdiivka in Donbas earlier this year. Hundreds were killed and many captured as Russian forces finally overran the besieged hold-out.

When we were in Avdiivka the last time, 45-70 guided aerial bombs were dropped there. Not a single division would endure that many attacks if it had worked according to Nato standards, since Nato doctrine doesnt [involve] digging trenches.

A lack of sophisticated kit

The answer, for Kurylenko, is to develop a third way, suited to the Ukrainian military as it actually is  with a lack of sophisticated kit and unwilling to spend the lives of its soldiers as wantonly as Russia. Specialisation of a soldiers role would be key.

Right now we have a special operations battalion with a rifle regiment standing right next to it and a para and stormtroopers battalion behind them both and all three of them implement the same tasks. I am 100 per cent sure we will abandon such a doctrine soon.

In the future a soldier would clearly perform just a specific range of tasks and wont be a Jack-of-all-trades  an engineer, a sniper, a machine-gunner or a cook, said Lt Col Kurylenko.

Lt Col Kurylenkos predictions for the coming year are bleak and predicated on Western aid that is non-existent or late to arrive.

We will be assaulted by a full-scale and overpowering offensive. Closer to the summer, Russian forces will be ready to attack the area on the junction of the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions and try to advance in the direction from the Kharkiv to Poltava regions.

After that, the battle line will be extended and the depth of the frontline will get bigger as well. We will be able to break their logistic routes so they wont be able to prevail even overpowering our forces.

This line will freeze along the Dnipro river and we will lose the territory of Ukraine right up to the Dnipro.

Much depends on the West

The travails of the Ukrainian army are reversible, said Lt Col Kurylenko, but much does depend on the West.

His gratitude for the support so far, from governments to volunteers, is evident, but there is also frustration at the slow pace of aid.

This so-called crucial moment which is unfolding at the moment has been artificially created by our western partners, he said.

I dont really know what our partners consider as their minimum and maximum goals. I wont say they dont have [them], I just dont know what [they are].

When we call each other friends and partners ready to help each other, we cant assist with one thing, and then refrain from helping with the other one.

If all of us as a coalition are fighting against our common enemy, we either keep beating it together or we just say bye to each other and go home.

Partnership implies assistance even in the hardest times. To go ahead towards victory mutual assistance is vital and should be supported by actions, not just by words, said Lt Col Kurylenko.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Would You Make It onto Donald Trumps Jury? Experts Identify the Ideal Juror  and What Theyll Be Asked

More than 500 New Yorkers are being summoned to a Manhattan courthouse to kick off the historic jury selection process in Trump's first criminal trial. Here's how it'll work

Curtis Means-Pool/Getty; Angela Weiss/AFP/Getty Jury selection begins in Donald Trump's Manhattan hush money trial on Monday, April 15

Jury selection in Donald Trump's hush money trial is about to begin, which begs the question: Is anyone impartial enough to be seated as a juror in a high-profile case against a former president?

On Monday, April 15, New York Judge Juan Merchan will learn the answer, when more than 500 randomly summoned Manhattan residents are expected in court to audition for the part.

Related: More than 500 New Yorkers Will Report for Jury Duty Ahead of Trump's First Trial. 12 Will Determine His Fate

Out of several hundred candidates, the court only needs to identify 18 people who seem capable of judging Trump fairly. The most trusted 12 will comprise the jury, and six additional people will sit in on the trial as alternates.







"I don't think asking 500 eligible jurors to report for selection is outrageous"

Criminal defense attorney Caroline Polisi







To whittle the jury pool down to its finalists, prosecutors, defense attorneys and the judge will have to work together to eliminate jury candidates one by one until only 18 remain. While potential jurors answer a series of screening questions, the Manhattan DA's office and Trump's legal team will be listening for clues about their biases and strategically trying to keep people in the running who are likely to swing in their respective directions.

"There is an entire cottage industry of jury consultants, and you can bet Trump has paid for the best," explains Caroline Polisi, a white-collar criminal defense attorney known for breaking down high-profile cases. "His team likely ran focus groups and even mock trials in order to identify the exact mix of character traits they are looking for in a juror, and that goes well beyond the obvious ones like race, age, gender and political affiliation."

Related: The Biggest Bombshells from the Donald Trump Indictment, from Hush Money Payments to 'Friends in High Places'

If you're curious about whether you'd make it through the rigorous vetting process, you're not alone. Here's how the potential hush money trial jurors will be screened in the coming days, to give you an idea of whether you'd qualify.



ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty New York Judge Juan Merchan's Manhattan courtroom, where Donald Trump is expected to go on trial in April

The Initial Excusals

Almost immediately, a portion of the people summoned for jury duty will be dismissed at their own will. After Judge Merchan reveals the defendant and his charges, names the witnesses who are expected to testify and details his expectations for the jury  including that it'll be a six-week gig  he will ask people to raise their hands if they believe they cannot fulfill the duties of a juror.

"If you have an honest, legitimate and good faith reason to believe that you cannot serve on this case, or that you cannot be fair and impartial, based solely upon what you have heard up to this point, please let me know now," Merchan plans to say.

He will then have anyone who raises their hand line up in front of the bench and individually explain their reasoning for wanting to leave, and he expects to grant most of their requests.

Related: Everyone Who Might Testify in Donald Trump's Hush Money Trial, Which Begins April 15

"Given the high-profile nature of this case, I don't think asking 500 eligible jurors to report for selection is outrageous," Polisi tells PEOPLE, explaining that "there will be many jurors dismissed for mundane reasons like the resulting undue hardship they would endure from being away from work for an extended period, or the inability to serve because they are the only caretaker to a dependent."

And if you're not interested in even trying to put your bias aside, this is where you'd want to throw in the towel and get some of your Monday back.

Related: Stormy Daniels Speaks Out After Trump's Hush Money Indictment amid Fears for Her Safety

Justin Lane/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Donald Trump attends a pre-trial hearing at Manhattan Criminal Court on March 25, 2024

Get Ready to Tell Your Life Story

Once the first batch of people are excused, jurors will take turns verbally answering a series of 42 personal questions that have already been approved by Judge Merchan. The screening questions for Trump's hush money trial were previously debated by Manhattan prosecutors and the defense counsel.

Potential jurors may go into the selection process thinking they can skirt the system by hiding their predispositions, which has certainly happened in trials before and poses a risk of getting an unfair verdict. The questionnaire phase is designed to avoid that, asking all sorts of things that force each candidate to go on the record about their personal life, their family background, their social circles and their level of involvement in politics.

The questionnaire also asks, in a number of ways, whether jurors believe they are capable of making fair decisions in spite of their personal feelings, ending with the point-blank question: Is there any reason, whether it be a bias or something else, that would prevent you from being fair and impartial if you are selected as a juror for this case?

"There is no juror that hasn't heard of Trump, but that is not the test," Polisi explains of the questioning process, known in the legal profession as voir dire. "The requirement is that regardless of political affiliation, can you put those personal feelings aside and view the evidence impartially and make a decision based solely on the facts and the law presented to you?"

Related: Donald Trump Will Be Rejected by Most Swing State Voters if Hes Convicted of a Crime, New Poll Suggests

What Exactly Does the Questionnaire Ask?

So you say you're prepared to treat Trump like any other defendant and focus on the facts. But does the court believe you? Simply telling the professionals in the room that you're mature enough to handle the weight of Trump's fate doesn't mean you aced the test. There are 42 questions you have to nail, remember?

"Your run of the mill, typical criminal case might have 35 to 40 jurors summoned to court," says David Ring, a trial attorney who represented Jane Doe 1 in the similarly high-profile Harvey Weinstein case. Trump needs so many more, he tells PEOPLE, because of how many will fail the voir dire process.

"The court realizes that there will be many potential jurors who are biased one way or another, for or against the case, and [they] will be quickly dismissed as potential jurors," Ring adds.

Related: Who Is Karen McDougal? All About the Former Playboy Model Tied to Donald Trump's Indictment

In a recent court filing, Judge Merchan released the full list of questions that jury candidates will be asked to respond to early on in the process, and it's apparent that  unless people flat-out lie  they will be effective in revealing the most relevant biases. Fortunately, nobody will need to use their name when answering, as that information is being heavily guarded given the inflammatory nature of the case.

Below is a shortened (and paraphrased) version of what you'd be asked to answer aloud if you were in this jury pool.







Jury Questionnaire Highlights

Where do you work and what do you do?

What's your residency history?

What does your free time look like?

Do you have health issues or take disruptive medications?

Will your religion impact your jury service?

What media outlets do you follow?

What social media platforms are you on?

Have you engaged with Trump's campaigns or businesses?

Have you supported or followed any anti-Trump movements?

Do you support Antifa, QAnon, Proud Boys, etc.?

Do you think presidents should be criminally charged?

Is Trump being treated fairly?

Have you read any of Trump's books?

Are you familiar with Michael Cohen's books and podcasts?

How do you feel about laws surrounding political contributions?

Does anyone in your life work in law enforcement?

Does anyone in your life work in accounting or finance?

Does anyone in your life have legal experience?

Has anyone in your life worked for any level of government?

Has anyone in your life been a victim of a crime?

Has anyone in your life been in trouble with the law?

Can we trust you to not screw this up?









Some questions provide an obvious window into your mindset  like whether you've rioted with the Proud Boys, been accused of a financial crime or exclusively read Huffington Post.

Other answers in the questionnaire could offer more subtle clues into your thinking, like if you stated that you live in the ultra-liberal Chelsea neighborhood, divulged the details of your niece's 2012 arrest or shared that your friend recently graduated law school. Through those answers, the prosecutors and defense attorneys can paint a collective picture of who and what might influence your perspective on the case.

If you reveal a direct connection to an involved party or hint at some sort of strongly held belief that would cloud your judgment too much, an attorney on either side can ask the judge to dismiss you "for cause." That's the primary way people are sent home, and it can happen early on or during follow-up questioning, once someone has revealed enough bias for the judge to get on board.

Related: All About Todd Blanche, Donald Trump's Attorney in Ongoing Criminal Cases

"Each side will tell you that their ideal juror is someone who can view the evidence with an open mind and come to a conclusion without regard to their own political biases," Polisi says. "In reality though, I can guarantee you that Trump's team would be very happy to have a juror who believes in his 'Witch Hunt' narrative, and will support him at all costs."

"And the same likely goes for the prosecution on the flip side," she adds. "That will be Judge Merchan's greatest difficulty in picking this jury  trying to make sure no jurors get past the voir dire process who have ulterior motives."



Atilgan Ozdil/Anadolu Agency/Getty Attorney Todd Blanche, who is leading Donald Trump's criminal defense, speaks to media outside the Manhattan Criminal Court in 2019

Don't Forget the Peremptory Challenges

On paper, you might not have a strong enough conflict to get dismissed by the judge for cause, but that doesn't mean you get a seat on the jury.

The law allows attorneys on both sides a certain number of "peremptory challenges," which are free passes to dismiss someone without providing a reason  so long as they aren't using their challenge to discriminate on the basis of a constitutionally protected characteristic like race or gender. ("In practice though," Polisi notes, "those challenges are often used to strike potential jurors based exactly on those constitutionally protected characteristics.")

Peremptory challenges are each side's way of having some direct input on who sits on the jury. If Trump's counsel, for example, gets the sense that one of the remaining candidates might judge the former president harshly, they can boot them from the running and the DA's office loses out on a potentially favorable juror.

Related: Every Crime Donald Trump Has Been Charged With

In Judge Merchan's jury selection instructions, he was pointed in reminding Trump's lawyers of their duty to play fair with follow-up questioning and dismissal requests, writing that "contrary to defense counsels arguments, the purpose of jury selection is not to determine whether a prospective juror likes or does not like one of the parties."

"Such questions are irrelevant because they do not go to the issue of the prospective jurors qualifications," he continued. "The ultimate issue is whether the prospective juror can assure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law."

Related: Judge Tells Donald Trump's Attorneys to 'Control Him' as Former President Lashes Out in Court

Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who is leading the prosecution of Donald Trump

How Long Will Jury Selection Take?

There's no defined time frame for selecting the jury, but it can't last forever.

"Jury selection can last a couple hours to several days in a typical case. This obviously is not a typical case," Ring tells PEOPLE, saying that at most, the process could last as long as two weeks. "[It] depends on a lot of factors, and the judge has a lot of control over how fast or slow the process goes."

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Polisi agrees that it'll fall on the judge to help set the pace. "While this certainly could be a protracted exercise, I don't see Judge Merchan letting this go on much more than a week," she says.

Both Ring and Polisi believe that, in a pool of about 500 candidates, the court should be able to find its "impartial" panel when all is said and done. Once the jurors are finalized opening arguments can begin, bringing Trump one step closer to a conviction or acquittal.

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OTTAWA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- A police officer was stabbed and a suspect was shot during an altercation in Toronto, Canada's biggest city, on Friday afternoon, local media reported.

The incident occurred in the parking lot of a plaza in the area of College Street and Lansdowne Avenue at around 1:30 p.m. local time, the report said.

The officer and the person who was shot by police were rushed to hospital via emergency run and both are listed in stable condition, according to the report. 
On Thursday, President Joe Biden took a giant step toward making us safer from gun violence by making it harder for someone who shouldnt possess a gun to buy one. Next week will mark the 25th anniversary of the deadly massacre at Columbine High School in Colorado. The 13 victims murdered that day were killed by two students firing guns lawfully acquired without any background checks.

Since Columbine, many other mass shootings have been linked to guns purchased without the benefit of a background check, and lawmakers and officials have mightily struggled to eliminate this often fatal gap in gun safety, known as the gun show loophole. The new rules should take effect in one month. Its not a moment too soon.

The gun show loophole is sometimes called the private sale exception. Thats because it allows those who sell guns at private or informal settings, such as gun shows or flea markets, to do so without initiating the law enforcement background checks on their customers that are required of federally licensed gun sellers who often conduct business at brick-and-mortar firearms stores. The new rule, to be enforced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), redefines sellers required to conduct background checks as anyone engaged in the business of selling guns at a profit. Those sellers must now register as a federally licensed firearms dealer and submit buyers' data for criminal records and mental health queries even if they only deal in a small number of transactions.

The U.S. Justice Department noted that the new requirement will apply to more than 23,000 currently unlicensed dealers and cover tens of thousands of gun sales annually. That means thousands of gun sales previously conducted in a kind of double-blind transaction, with law enforcement in the dark as to whether the seller is a criminal or the buyer a potential mass shooter, will now be exposed to safety measures. Importantly, despite what naysayers might claim, the rule will not apply to selling private gun collections or passing on a grandfathers old hunting rifle to his grandchild.

This new regulation really isnt new. It simply takes the existing background check requirements already mandated at gun stores and applies them equally at sales happening in other places. The criminal or adjudicated mentally ill customer who would be turned away at the gun store, will now be turned away at the gun show or flea market. This isnt infringing on anyones Second Amendment rights; its just acting responsibly. Responsible gun owners dont want their rights tainted by violent offenders who give them a bad name. In fact, when the proposed changes were opened up for 90 days of public comments, two-thirds of the 400,000 responses favored the new rule.

You might think that this approach to increased gun safety makes perfect sense, and that it simply treats everyone equally, regardless of where they buy their gun. So, who would complain? Well, for starters, there are Republican Sens. John Cornyn, of Texas, and Thom Tillis, of North Carolina, who intend to introduce a joint resolution expressing disapproval and demanding that the new measures be overturned. Why would Cornyn, whose home state experiences almost 4,000 deaths by guns per year, and Tillis, who loses almost 1,300 of his constituents a year to gun deaths, not want safer communities?

According to Gallup, more than half of Americans think laws governing gun sales should be stricter. If certain members of Congress arent motivated by what their constituents want, perhaps theyre driven by their own self-interests. Tillis has been one of the top recipients of money from the National Rifle Association over the course of his career for more than $4 million so far. Cornyn has benefited from NRA funds to the tune of almost $80,000 over his tenure; a mere pittance compared to Tillis. But Cornyn has announced his intention to run for Senate GOP leader when Mitch McConnell vacates that position. Maybe Cornyn needs to take in as much NRA money as McConnell has  reportedly more than $1 million  if he wants to curry favor with his party and the NRA. It seems like some of our elected officials believe the threat of losing NRA money is greater than the present danger of constituents lives lost to gun violence.

The new mandated background check for gun show sales makes us safer. Our safety shouldnt depend on where potential mass shooters buy their gun. And, our lives shouldnt depend on how much money our Congress members get from the NRA.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The Yampa Valley of Colorado is breathtaking  with the Flat Top Mountains and the Yampa river. It is a region of deep history and natural beauty. But its not hard to see the effects of climate change. It is getting hotter and drier, the snowpack is changing and wildfire risk is at an all-time high. And this isnt unique to that area of the state. A majority of Colorado has warmed 1 to 2 degrees Fahrenheit in the last century. In 2020, 625,000 acres burned in forest fires, and warming temperatures are decreasing the snowpack in the southern Rockies.

To solve these challenges, the state and the nation at large need a workforce that is prepared to address the concerns of today, find solutions for tomorrow and transition the country to a more climate-conscious economy. Unfortunately, the rapidly growing clean-energy sector is bumping up against serious labor constraints, having difficulty filling jobs and ensuring that workers have the needed skills. In the next seven years, there are expected to be over 550,000 new energy-transition jobs in the U.S. In 2022 alone, green job postings on LinkedIn jumped 20%  yet the pool of workers with the skills required to fill them grew by only 8.4%.

Regions like the Yampa Valley need help attracting and developing talent that can combat this worsening crisis. A leader in this initiative is Lyra, a nonprofit that seeks to reimagine education by designing and broadening climate-driven career pathways and empowering school communities to drive their own reforms. The organization does this through three main efforts: innovation zones, mission accelerators and the Climatarium initiative that is increasingly pertinent to solving some of the states most dire challenges.

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The Climatarium brings together education, industry and state and local policymakers to encourage collaboration to build climate-related education pathways and offer youth leadership and career opportunities in relevant fields. There are five Climatarian rural collaborative/hubs in the state, including one in the Yampa Valley. The hubs have created regional partnerships

among seven colleges, 20 rural K-12 school districts and more than 40 employers and community-based organizations. They are developing and sustaining a range of green job pathways, including in energy, agriculture and outdoor tourism.

These offerings have the potential to impact more than 15,000 middle and high school students by creating college and career opportunities in highly in-demand fields. This, in turn, can boost the economic prosperity of rural areas of the state by creating strong talent pipelines that are attractive to industry. To expand these best practices and ensure their impact, there needs to be broader, statewide support, which is why it is so important that Senate Bill 14, the Seal of Climate Literacy Diploma Endorsement, recently passed through the House Committee on Education.

Related

This Is the Existential Crisis: A Push for Climate Change Education

Students can earn the seal on their high school diplomas by, for example, taking Advanced Placement physical, life or earth sciences, or participating in a career education program geared toward alternative energy, like solar farms. The bills sponsor, Democratic state Sen. Chris Hanson, said the seal would help students get skills for jobs that are expected to grow by 10% in the next five years, including installing solar panels, electric chargers or heating and cooling systems. The seal would also prepare students for college by signaling their understanding of climate-related issues to admissions officers and could even result in college credit.

The bill is also endorsed by Superintendent Kirk Henwood of the South Routt School District, which is located in the Yampa Valley. Henwood stated during a committee hearing that, having a seal of climate literacy furthers our efforts to ensure that our high school graduates have the verified skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce and postsecondary education opportunities. He added, understanding the climate and environment is critical to sustain a rural way of life where land and water are literally the building blocks of our world.

While the bill is waiting for final passage, it shows that progress is being made to prepare Colorados workforce for the energy-related jobs of today and tomorrow. Its a win for the state  and, said Lyra CEO and founder Mary Seawell, other states are interested in replicating both the Seal of Climate Literacy and place-based approaches to climate education.

Other state and federal leaders can and should commit to this work  supporting a 21st century education system that is more responsive to labor market demands, the community and the nations climate goals. This includes expanding high-quality opportunities in career and technical education, youth apprenticeships, STEM programs and other pathways so young people are prepared for careers across the energy sector. This work is critical to transforming students lives, ensuring that communities stay economically vital and guaranteeing that places like the Yampa Valley never stop being breathtaking.

Disclosure: Walton Family Foundation and the City Fund provide financial support to the Progressive Policy Institute and The 74.
Three times this week, former President Donald Trumps lawyers have launched last-ditch efforts to delay the start of his first criminal trial in New York. Theyve tried to overturn a gag order against him, argued that the publicity surrounding the case will affect jury selection, tried to swap out the judge in the case and stall the start of the trial while those motions are being adjudicated. And those are just the motions theyve made in one of the four criminal cases Trump is facing.

The flurry of paperwork thats been filed in the past few weeks helps illuminate how Trump is managing to burn through a mountain of cash. Lawyering is expensive work, and the phalanx of attorneys Trump has drafting briefs and arguing before the bench doesnt come cheap. Three separate appellate judges quickly shot down three eleventh-hour attempts from Trump to keep his trial from starting Monday. But regardless of the failure rate of Trumps motions, given how uncertain his legal calendar is between now and Election Day, it seems like filing futile motions has been money well spent.

Theres no one public source tracking all the various delay tactics that Trump has employed to forestall standing trial. In part thats because those tactics have been used in multiple jurisdictions with justifications that include supposed constitutional shields and evidence-free claims of bias from the prosecutors, judges and, in the case of Mondays trial, even the venue itself. Thankfully, the team at Lawfare, a project from the Brookings Institution, has been compiling the documents in the New York case, where Trump stands accused of falsifying records to cover up hush money payments before and after the 2016 election.

Trump has two main lawyers on this case: Todd Blanche, who is working with the two other members of his firm, and Susan Necheles, who was once a defense attorney for a mafia underboss. Between them, theyve filed at least 25 documents with the court since the beginning of the year, according to the Lawfare tally of the docket. These include standard motions, such as a motion to limit what evidence can be presented at trial. There have also been wild swings, including the attorneys motion to have the case thrown out based on Trumps presidential immunity theory, on which the U.S. Supreme Court will be hearing oral arguments this month.

Added together, thats over 500 pages of documents logged with the New York Supreme Court in less than four months. Some of those documents are one-page pre-motion letters that Judge Juan Merchan ordered last month, where the lawyers ask his permission to file new motions as the trial approaches. The longest is a 182-page document from Blanche to support the claim that Trump cant get a fair trial in Manhattan. That total doesnt include, though, documents related to this weeks spate of filings with the New York appeals court.

The absurdly high amount Trump has been spending on legal fees really begins to make sense when you consider just how many hours are going into preparing this mountain of pretrial filings. Much of the spending has gone through Trumps Save America political action committee, which has been siphoning off funds from campaign donations and from a joint fund controlled by the Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee. In February, the last month for which theres Federal Election Commission data for Save Americas spending, the committee doled out $5.6 million (or as The Daily Beast put it, $230,000 per day) on legal fees alone. All told, Trump has spent more than $100 million on lawyers and other legal costs since he left office in 2021, according to a tally from The New York Times.

Blanche launched his firm soon after taking on Trump as a client, and its been among the biggest beneficiaries of this largesse, as Blanche is also defending Trump in the federal criminal cases against him in Washington and Florida. Save America transferred more than $3.3 million to the firm between last April and February, according to the FEC. Necheles firm has done well for itself too, having brought in over $1.2 million from Save America during that same span. And, again, these numbers dont include the money Trump has been burning through over the last two months, when the frequency of filings shot up.

Whats truly wild is that Blanche and Necheles arent even the ones whove earned the most from Trump during these legal battles. That title goes to Chris Kise, who has been working on the Florida federal case as well as the civil case against Trumps businesses in New York. Lawyers like Kise tend to work on retainer, essentially a down payment on how many billable hours will be worked. Knowing Trumps reputation for not paying his lawyers, Kise, a former solicitor general for Florida, demanded $3 million upfront. Hes gotten that and then some since then, raking in over $9 million for his firm.

Despite the money Trump has spent, it is all but inevitable at this point that the first ever criminal trial against a former president will begin on Monday. But this case, which is predicted to last at least six weeks, will affect the timing of the other cases that await Trump. Every dollar doled out that helped delay this first trial has been more time that hes been able to avoid accountability in the subsequent ones. Its hard to picture how much more hell spend between now and November  but given that the vast majority of it seems not to be coming from his own pocket, its no wonder its a price hes very willing to pay.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
BUDAPEST (Reuters) - A former ally of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Peter Magyar, registered a party late on Thursday to run in the European elections in June, setting out a test for his ability to challenge the nationalist leader.

Magyar swooped into Hungary's political scene in February when he accused the government of widespread corruption and running a centralized propaganda machine. Orban aides have rejected his accusations.

In late March, he published a recording of a conversation with Judit Varga, then his wife and Hungary's justice minister, in which she detailed an attempt by Orban aides to meddle in a graft case.

The revelation, which is being investigated by prosecutors, has led to large protests in Hungary and has cast a shadow over Orban's government which had already been reeling from a sex abuse scandal that led to the resignation of the president.

Opinion polls show that Magyar would get about 13% of voters while Fidesz's support was mostly unchanged.

Magyar, who took over an inactive party called Tisza (Tisztelet es Szabadsag - Respect and Freedom) is starting a country-wide campaign tour next week, planning to visit six to eight towns a day, he told Reuters.

"There is still a lot of work to do. We are a kind of garage company," he said.

At a rally last week, he told his audience that he wants to "take Hungary back" and restore democracy. He stood up for the reform of the healthcare and education systems and reiterated that he wants to co-operate with the European Union.

Magyar has said earlier that he will be heading his party's list for the European elections as its most popular member, but will not become a member of the European Parliament and stay in Hungary to challenge the government.

If his party won any seats in the European elections, their members would join the European People's Party group, he told ATV in an interview.

(Reporting by Anita Komuves; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
University of Central Florida criminal justice and legal studies students will be able to receive new annual scholarships as part of a $75,000 endowment announced Thursday by Orlando police Chief Eric Smith.

The endowment, donated by the Orlando Police Foundation on UCFs Day of Giving, will fund $1,500 scholarships annually to two undergraduate students of both majors.

Smith, who graduated from UCF in 1993 before embarking on a 28-year career at the Orlando Police Department, said the money is aimed at helping students complete their programs and, hopefully, to boost recruitment efforts at the department and other local agencies.

We have a lot of UCF alumni that work for us throughout the whole department. From our communications to our police officers to our analysts, we are well-represented by UCF graduates, Smith said. Its one of the biggest places we recruit from  this is just another link in that chain in trying to get more people to come to OPD and work for us.

Florida poll shows abortion referendum far short of passage, many voters still undecided

Criminal justice degrees are among the top 15 majors pursued by UCF students in the 2023-2024 school year, according to university figures, with many going on to jobs in public safety and law, among others. Institutions catering to such students, like OPD and Orange County courthouse, are located in downtown Orlando, including UCFs legal studies program housed in its downtown campus.

Grant Hayes, dean of UCFs College of Community Innovation and Education, thanked Smith and the foundation for the endowment and their commitment to supporting the success of our students.

This endowed scholarship, he said, will help students expand their talents, their identity and to pursue careers that really impact the community and pave the way for more UCF students to unleash their potential to serve their communities.
Over 80 suffering animals seized from unsanitary conditions at Ohio farm

Over 80 animals were seized from an Ohio farm this week.

The Friendship Animal Protective Leagues staff rescued and seized 88 animals, including pigs, goats, dogs, chickens, ducks, and rabbits, from a property in Lorain County on April 10, according to a social media post.

>> Man formally charged after being accused of shooting woman in face in Harrison Twp.

The animal shelters Executive Director Greg Willey told WOIO in Cleveland that many dead animals were found on the property as well.

Willey said the warrant the shelter acted on, with the help of two animal sanctuaries, stemmed from accusations of animals suffering as a result of untreated medical ailments, and unsanitary conditions on the property.

Friendship Animal Protective League shared photos on social media of some of the animals rescued. Included was a photo of a goats foot, which appears to be very misshapen as a result of the poor conditions the animals were in.

>> Dayton police sergeant under criminal investigation for over a year formally charged

That should not exist in nature, Willey told WOIO.

Friendship Animal Protective League is handling the investigation.

Yesterday our staff worked to rescue and seize 88 living animals from a Lorain County property. With the help of other... Posted by Friendship Animal Protective League on Thursday, April 11, 2024
An OVI checkpoint has been announced for Butler County tonight.

>>Man formally charged after being accused of shooting woman in face in Harrison Twp.

The Butler County OVI Task Force is holding it from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m., according to a spokesperson.

It will take place in the City of Monroe.

The location will be on State Route Four northbound, specifically the 6200 block of Hamilton-Middletown Road.

The checkpoints, along with saturation patrols, are part of the task forces efforts to reduce OVI-related deadly and injury crashes.

The Monroe Fire Department will also be on hand.

The Butler County OVI Task Force is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and Ohio Department of Public Safety.
Lindt & Sprungli, the multinational chocolatier and confectionary company that acquired Kansas Citys Russell Stover Candies for $1.6 billion in 2014, was awarded $33 million in a federal court trial that concluded last week.

The company filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri in 2022 against GXO Warehouse Co., a logistics company.

Lindt alleged that after it completed its acquisition of Russell Stover, it sought to consolidate the warehouses for Lindts growing portfolio of chocolate brands. (Lindt also owns Ghirardelli, the third-oldest chocolate company in the U.S.) GXO, then known as XPO Logistics, was hired to manage the overhaul.

The system XPO implemented broke down during December 2018 and early 2019, Lindt alleged, disrupting its peak season for chocolate sales and causing massive harm to the company.

Because the Lindt companies (and Ghirardelli in particular) were unable to get their products on retail shelves and keep them stocked as necessary during this crucial time, Lindt lost millions of dollars in sales that it would have and should have ordinarily made, the complaint reads. Lindt also incurred many millions of dollars in other expenses resulting from XPOs failings; for example, costs of deeply discounting holiday motif products that were delivered after the holidays; destroying or donating expired products; and paying customer fines for late deliveries.

Lindt also alleged that XPO falsified inventory records to give the impression that the shipments had been completed when in fact they hadnt.

The trial was held in Missouri, where Lindt & Sprunglis North American division is headquartered. In early April, the jury awarded Lindt $18.3 million in lost profits and $15.1 million in extraordinary expenses.

Attorneys for Arnold & Porter, which represented Lindt, did not respond to a request for comment.

We strongly disagree with the verdict, which relates to a legacy issue from 2017 under prior management, and intend to appeal, a GXO spokesperson told The Star.

Russell Stover celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2023. Founded in a Denver bungalow by Clara and Russell Stover, the company relocated to Kansas City in 1932.
Azerbaijan aims to raise gas exports to Europe by around 17% from current levels by 2026, with further increases dependent largely on EU demand and infrastructure developments, Vitaliy Baylarbayov, deputy vice president of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR, told Montel News, Azernews reports.

We are expanding [production and export capacity] now and the results of that should be ready by 2026, when we will further increase our supplies to Italy, Greece and to Bulgaria, Baylarbayov said at the Budapest LNG Summit.

The country was eyeing gas exports of close to 14bcm to southeast European countries in two years time, from 12bcm last year, he said.

The rise would be due to a combination of production growth and capacity expansions on the three transit pipelines that make up the Southern Gas Corridor, which links Azerbaijan, via Turkiye, with Greece and Italy, he noted.

But further increases in Azerbaijans supply to Europe would depend largely on the regions demand requirements and its commitment to invest in new infrastructure, Baylarbayov said on the sidelines of the event.

For example, we are intending to send an additional 5bcm via the Solidarity Ring to the Balkan countries, he said, regarding a planned route  for which a memorandum of understanding was signed last year  between Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia.

And similar volumes could be additionally shipped via the Southern Gas Corridor to Italy, Greece and their neighbors, he said, adding this is what we can produce and deliver.

I cannot say that this all will come simultaneously, or that this will all come in one and the same year  it all depends on when infrastructure will be ready and when our upstream will be ready, he said.

But he stressed certain projects did not depend on SOCAR, but rather the European customers.

The decisions in Europe should be made by the Europeans.

We are interested in supplying more, [but] it is crucial to have the infrastructure, he said, adding that Europe would remain Azerbaijans primary market for the years ahead.

Azerbaijan started exporting gas to Europe on December 31, 2020. According to the agreement between Azerbaijan and the EU, by 2027, supplies of Azerbaijani gas should reach at least 20 billion cubic meters per year.

At the same time, by the end of 2025, the TAP gas pipeline, as part of the first stage of expansion, will be ready to accept additional 1.2 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas, of which, from 2026, Italy will receive 1 billion cubic meters, and Albania will receive another 200 million cubic meters.

As part of the Solidarity Ring project, on April 25, 2023, a ceremony was held in Sofia to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on the development of cooperation between gas transmission system operators in Bulgaria (Bulgartransgaz), Romania (Transgaz), Hungary (FGSZ), Slovakia (Eustream), as well as SOCAR. The memorandum defines the areas of cooperation between the four transmission system operators and SOCAR for the supply of additional gas from Azerbaijan to Europe. Additional supplies will be carried out through the modernized gas transmission networks of Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary and Slovakia.




Joe Abner and his wife, Vera, walk through a vacant lot that was once part of the Section 14 community in Palm Springs. Abner was 13 when his family fled Section 14, which the city ultimately leveled to make way for luxury developments in the 1960s. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Acknowledging its role in the destruction of a local Black and Latino neighborhood, the Palm Springs City Council promised Thursday to "right that wrong."

Council members did not specify what they plan to do for the survivors of the community leveled in the 1960s, however, and made no mention of paying reparations to the families whose homes were demolished.

Residents of the Section 14 neighborhood on the outskirts of Palm Springs were working-class tenants who lived on tribal land because they couldn't obtain housing in the highly segregated desert community.

At the time, Section 14 residents were responsible for turning Palm Springs into a desert oasis, working as maids, builders, chauffeurs and at other jobs, according to an administrative claim for reparations filed by the former residents and their descendants. In 2021, the city apologized for its actions surrounding the displacement of the neighborhood, but officials have provided little insight into what could happen next.

On Thursday, Palm Springs gave a glimpse into its prospects for the displaced community. Officials promised to continue conversations on Section 14 with the former residents and descendants, but did not mention any form of direct compensation.

Read more: Black and Latino residents burned out of Palm Springs seek city reparations

The City Council agreed to build more affordable housing, Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein announced after a closed-door session discussing the administrative claim, which could act as a precursor to a lawsuit by the Section 14 group. The city promised to "explore ways that we can increase economic opportunities; especially with small businesses in underserved communities," Bernstein said in a statement.

"My colleagues and I recognize that city funds were used to clear land which housed individuals and families who were tenants on the property, including minority groups," Bernstein said after Thursday's City Council meeting. "We know that we as a city need to right that wrong, and in todays closed session we collectively agreed on a number of steps to accomplish that goal."

City officials promised to study the cost for a healing or cultural center dedicated to Section 14 and the hiring of a historical consultant to study the issue.

Attorney Areva Martin, who represents the former residents and descendants of Section 14, said in a statement that the group was "encouraged that the City of Palm Springs has heard our call for justice and has committed to taking tangible steps to make the Section 14 Survivors whole."

"We look forward to working closely with the City Council to reach a reasonable and just resolution, so that we can turn a page on this chapter of Palm Springs history and move forward, Martin added.

But the two sides cannot agree on how many homes Palm Springs destroyed or the cost to build those homes.

The city argues that Palm Springs is liable for the destruction of only 145 homes, while the group behind the claim argues it was 350 homes, according to a counterproposal from the city to the Section 14 Survivors shared with The Times on Friday.

The two sides also disagree on the value of the homes and personal property destroyed. The city put the number at just $3,000 per site in 1965, or roughly $29,500 per site today when adjusted for inflation, according to Palm Springs City Atty. Jeff Ballinger. That would amount to $4.2 million in total.

The Section 14 group said the homes were worth $18,000 and the personal property $4,200 in 1965, putting the total value for monetary damages today at $15.7 million.

Ballinger called the city's proposal "a historic move." If there were any additional state or federal sources to supplement those payouts, he said, the city said it would be willing to include those as well  but the Section 14 group would need to help find those sources.

Martin called the proposal "a first step, but the survivors and descendants are continuing to meet with the city and negotiations continue."

The plot of land that made up Section 14 belonged to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, but was held in trust by the federal government.

It was home to a predominantly Black community in addition to migrant workers from Mexico and South America in the 1950s, according to historical records.

Read more: Palm Springs capped short-term rentals. Now some home prices are in free-fall

A federal arrangement barred tribal members from leasing parcels for more than a few years. But in 1959, federal law eased development restrictions, clearing the way for the Indian landowners to offer prospective tenants 99-year leases. This offered the city and tribal land owners a huge financial opportunity to cash in on the land.

All the structures in Section 14 were condemned by the city and the tribal landowners. By 1966, the city reported to the Bureau of Indian Affairs that it had been able to demolish, burn and clean up approximately 200 dwellings and structures.

A state probe in 1968 determined that the city acted without giving residents in Section 14 the required notice that they were being evicted before the homes and the personal belongings in them were destroyed. State officials at the time referred to Palm Springs' actions as a "city-engineered holocaust."

The families who built their wooden shacks and concrete houses in Section 14 were removed to make way for luxury properties, including a Hilton hotel, and residents such as Pearl Devers watched her neighborhood go up in flames while local firefighters stood nearby.

"This was done by the city, the city of Palm Springs Fire Department, regardless to what some are saying that the city had no involvement," Devers recently told The Times. "I don't know how they can claim that when the city Fire Department were the culprits."

Read more: Santa Monica killed a Black entrepreneur's dream in 1960. Now it wants to make amends

Devers, president of the Section 14 Survivors group, told The Times that the neighborhood's destruction devastated her family. Her father, who built their home, told Devers' mother and her siblings to leave while he tried to save the community, staying behind while Devers and her mother moved to nearby Indio. After their home was gone, her father turned to alcoholism and never recovered, she said.

"We want to restore our history and we want to give the Palm Springs City Council a chance to really set a precedent to show the nation and the world how to heal, how to resolve an issue that is so painful," Devers said before Thursday's announcement.

The area of eastern Palm Springs is now the site of a casino, convention center and hotels. Concrete slabs found on undeveloped parcels of land are all that are left of Section 14, according to the former residents.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson on Friday appointed Democratic Sen. Greg Razer from Kansas City to the State Tax Commission. Minutes later, a new exploratory committee emerged aimed at a possible candidacy to succeed Razer with his backing.

If the Missouri Senate votes to confirm Razers appointment, he would have to vacate his seat in the Senate  leaving his Jackson County district without a senator. Razer, first elected to the Senate in 2020 after previously serving in the House, had filed to run for reelection this year.

Less than 30 minutes after Parsons announcement, Pat Contreras, a member of various Kansas City-area boards, announced his creation of an exploratory committee to succeed Razer pending the Senates confirmation. The announcement included Razers endorsement.

Sen. Greg Razer has had a career defined by service to the people of Missouri and I am excited to see that continue in his next role, Contreras said in a statement. I have felt the same call to service throughout my life, and have always answered it  both in the public and private arenas. Now, with so many critical issues facing Missouri, I feel called to stand up and serve once again.

The last day for candidate filings already passed last month. But Missouri law requires that, if an incumbent candidate withdraws, then the filing window for that seat reopens for five days, according to a spokesperson for the Secretary of States Office.

Parsons appointment of Razer was unexpected.

The Kansas City Democrat has been one of the most visible Democratic leaders during his time in the Senate. The only openly gay member of the Senate, Razer has railed against anti-LGBTQ legislation and last year spearheaded a lengthy filibuster against a Republican-led bill that banned gender-affirming care for minors. The bill ultimately passed.

Razer, in a statement posted on social media, said he was honored and humbled by the appointment.

If confirmed by my colleagues in the Senate I will continue my public service for all Missourians with the same dedication as I have done for the past eight years, he said. My commitment today remains on my duties as State Senator, representing the interests of the 7th District, the cities of Kansas City and Grandview, along with our state as a whole.

The Missouri State Tax Commission is in charge of measuring the accuracy of assessments in each county and works with assessors across the state. Razers appointment comes at a time as Jackson Countys property assessment have faced intense scrutiny due to massive increases.

Contreras, in a news release, touted support from various Kansas City-area leaders including U.S. Rep Emanuel Cleaver, Mayor Quinton Lucas and former Secretary of State Jason Kannder.

After unsuccessfully running for state treasurer in 2016, Contreras has worked as an executive at McCownGordon Construction, a Kansas City-based construction firm, according to a news release.

He has also served on various boards and commissions, including the Kansas City Parks and Recreation Board, the Downtown Council, the board of University Health and as chair of the Kansas City, MO Committee of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.
HILLSBORO, Ill. (WCIA)  A portion of Illinois 185 in Montgomery County is closing for the weekend due to a sinkhole forming in the area.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced Friday afternoon Illinois 185 between Hillsboro and Coffeen is closed due to a 50-foot-wide sinkhole in Hillsboro. The sinkhole is in a farmers field adjacent to the road, southeast of the John A. Graham Correctional Center.

IDOT releases updated Illinois highway map

Officials with IDOT said there is minimal damage to Illinois 185, but will close through the weekend in case the sinkhole expands. IDOT officials will assess damages to estimate early next week when the road can reopen.

A spokesperson with Illinoiss Department of Natural Resources told our partner station KTVI the agencys Office of Mines and Minerals was alerted of a subsidence event at the Deer Run Mine in Hillsboro from the mines owner, Foresight Energy. The company asked to close a portion of Illinois 185 out of an abundance of caution.

IDNRs Mines and Minerals staff are investigating the mine subsidence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
Paul Flores has been attacked twice in prison. How violent is the Coalinga facility?

Paul Flores, the convicted killer of Kristin Smart, has been attacked twice inside Coalingas Pleasant Valley State Prison in the eight months hes been incarcerated there.

He first arrived at the prison in early August after spending time at North Kern State Prison  a facility that acts as a reception center for inmates before they are assigned to a more permanent location. He spent about four months at North Kern, beginning March 30, 2023, about a week after he was sentenced to 25 years to life for the murder of Smart, who disappeared from Cal Poly over Memorial Day weekend in 1996 and was last seen with Flores.

Just weeks after Flores arrived at Pleasant Valley State Prison on Aug. 23, he was attacked by another inmate, which sent him to the hospital with serious injuries  including a stab wound to the neck. He was transported back to Pleasant Valley State Prison the following day in fair condition.

That inmate, Jason Budrow, has since been charged with attempted murder and assault. He is currently serving two life terms for two separate murders  one that sent him to prison in 2012 and another while he was already behind bars in 2021. In the latter case, Budrow killed fellow inmate Roger Kibbe, the serial rapist and murderer known as the I-5 strangler.

On Wednesday  a little over seven months later  Flores was attacked again by a different inmate.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation told The Tribune that the inmate stabbed Flores and two inmate-manufactured weapons were found at the scene. Flores was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and has since returned to the prison.

The corrections department has not yet released the name of the suspect in Flores most recent attack.

Pleasant Valley State Prison provides modern long-term housing and professional rehabilitative services for inmates of all custody levels, according to the CDCRs website.

We maintain the highest public safety security protocols, the website said in the prisons description.

So, are two attacks in eight months an anomaly? The Tribune took a look at the prisons public safety record as part of its new Reality Check series.

Pleasant Valley State Prison had no murders, 2 attempted murders, in one year

Pleasant Valley is one of 34 state prisons in California.

Its among a group of 10 classified as mens general population state prison facilities, including Avenal State Prison, Calipatria State Prison, Centinela State Prison, Correctional Training Facility in Soledad, Chuckawalla Valley State Prison, Ironwood State Prison, Mule Creek State Prison, California State Prison Solano and Valley State Prison.

A general population facility is where minimum and medium security inmates go after a reception center prison, like California Mens Colony in San Luis Obispo or North Kern State Prison.

According to CDCR, reception centers compile an inmates criminal records, life histories, medical and psychological histories and social relationships. Then prison staff determine the inmates classification score and institutional placement. Inmates can be placed in general population facilities or high-security facilities.

The most recent data specific to Pleasant Valley is from June 2022 to June 2023, and it shows there were two attempted murders of inmates during that year.

One inmate attempted murder at Pleasant Valley occurred in September 2022, and the other was in January 2023. The alleged attempted murder of Flores in August 2023 occurred outside that data window.

No murders occurred in any of the 10 male general population prison facilities in that time period, the data shows, and more than half had two or fewer attempted murders. Calipatria had the most at 15, followed by Ironwood with nine and Solano with three.

Pleasant Valley was one of seven prisons that had fewer than 10 assaults. Ironwood had 22, Avenal had 13 and Mule Creek had 10.

Five assaults between inmates at Pleasant Valley occurred during that same time period. None of those assaults was with a deadly weapon, the data shows. Two assaults took place in June 2022, one in September 2022 and two in February 2023.

Data shows there were 303 battery incidents between inmates at Pleasant Valley in that 12-month period  the second highest of the group  none of which used a deadly weapon.

Avenal had 341, Centinela had 276, Mule Creek had 176, Calipatria had 168, Valley had 151, Ironwood had 143, Solano had 104, Chuckawalla Valley had 60 and Soledad had 37.

During that same time period across all 34 California prisons, CDCR records show 174 attempted inmate homicides and 19 inmate murders, in addition to 195 inmate assaults of which 46 used a weapon.

Data shows there were 3,099 total batteries, 449 which used a weapon and 600 that resulted in severe bodily injury.

More recent data shows incidents between inmates in all state prisons ticking slightly up from February 2023 to this February.

During that time, there were 230 attempted inmate homicides and 22 inmate murders.

There were 237 inmate assaults  58 of which used a weapon. There were 3,693 batteries, 484 of which used a weapon and 659 of which caused severe bodily injury, the data shows.

New prison-specific data is expected by August.
Paul Flores looks on at the second day of his preliminary hearing, Aug. 3, 2021. He was found guilty of first-degree murder. (David Middlecamp / Associated Press)

Just eight months after being attacked in state prison, the man convicted of killing Kristin Smart was stabbed by another inmate and hospitalized again. The incident is being investigated as an attempted homicide.

Paul Flores, 47, was convicted in 2022 of killing Smart, a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo student last seen on campus with Flores more than 25 years ago and was sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison for first-degree murder.

On Wednesday at 3:27 p.m., staff at Pleasant Valley State Prison in Coalinga, Calif., witnessed Flores being stabbed by another inmate on the recreation yard, a spokesperson for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said.

Responding officers quickly put an end to the incident without using force, according to the CDCR. Two inmate-manufactured weapons were recovered from the scene.

Read more: Kristin Smart's family sues Cal Poly, accuses it of knowing of killer Paul Flores' history

An injured Flores was transported to an outside medical facility for a higher level of care. He has since returned to the prison and is in fair condition.

No other staff or incarcerated people were injured.

The person who attacked Flores, whose name was not disclosed, has been placed in restricted housing as the investigation continues, the CDCR said.

The prison's investigative services unit is looking into the incident, and the Office of the Inspector General has been notified.

CDCR has not released any other details.

The facility did not clarify whether this was the same person who stabbed Flores last August.

In the first attack, Jason Budrow, 43, stabbed Flores in the neck, causing Flores to be hospitalized for two days, the San Luis Obispo Tribune reported.

Budrow is serving two life sentences without the possibility of parole for two separate murders, one being the murder of Roger Reece Kibbe, the serial rapist and killer known as the "I-5 Strangler."

Read more: Kristin Smart's killer hospitalized in serious condition after attack in prison

Flores was arrested in connection to Smart's disappearance in 2021 after San Luis Obispo County resident Chris Lambert released the "Your Own Backyard" podcast series, which unearthed information previously unseen by the local sheriff's office.

Smart's body has never been found. Flores was convicted in October 2022 of murder for killing Smart, his classmate, during an attempted rape in his dorm room in May 1996.

Flores' attorney, Harold Mesick, could not be reached for comment. KSBY reported that Mesick said he plans to request that Flores be moved to another facility.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
April 12 (UPI) -- Longtime PBS news anchor Robert MacNeil died Friday. He was 93.

MacNeil died of natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, his daughter Alison MacNeil confirmed.

PBSNewsHour in a post on X, described the Canadian-born news anchor as "a driving force behind the show."

"A lifelong lover of language, literature and the arts, MacNeil's trade was using words," the post read. "Combined with his reporter's knack for being where the action was, he harnessed that passion to cover some of the biggest stories of his time, while his refusal to sensationalize the news sprung from respect for viewers."

MacNeil is best known as the co-host of the long-running MacNeil/Lehrer Report on PBS alongside Jim Lehrer.

The two joined forces in 1973 to cover the Senate Watergate Hearings for PBS, which won them an Emmy Award and led to their collaboration on the MacNeil/Lehrer Report two years afterward.

The half-hour broadcasts focused on one news issue per day and dove behind the headlines, offering more in-depth analysis than many commercial news networks.

The show was expanded in 1983 to become The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour, the nation's first full hour evening news program covering multiple topics.

Lehrer died in 2020 at age 85.

Born in 1931 in Montreal, MacNeil had a brief acting career before transitioning into the newsroom, signing on to ITV as a reporter and later as an editor for Reuters.

MacNeil joined NBC News in 1960 and was on the ground in Dallas when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

He interviewed such high profile figures as Martin Luther King Jr., Ayatollah Khomeini and former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

He is survived by four children and five grand children.
(Bloomberg) -- Mexicos state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos, in conjunction with the government of Mexico City, is investigating reports of contaminated water in some parts of the city, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in a morning press briefing Thursday.

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Pemex has found no evidence yet of leaks in pipes around the affected area which would cause residents water to smell like gasoline or other chemicals, AMLO, as the president is known, said.

Since this complaint began, the city government has been looking into it, and Pemex technicians have also participated in searching for the causes, AMLO said. They are looking at several wells, to see if there is any contamination from chemicals.

The investigation began earlier this week after residents of Mexico Citys Benito Juarez borough complained of water coming from their taps that smelled like gasoline.

Authorities have not ruled out a rupture in the pipe or fuel thieves illegally tapping gasoline lines, the president said.

The cause is not known yet, hopefully today it will become more clear, he said.

Mexico City will elect a new mayor on June 2, the same day as presidential elections in the country. Leading presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum was previously mayor of Mexico City. In a poll published March 6 by El Financiero, ruling party candidate Clara Brugada was ahead with 44% of voter preference, with the leading opposition candidate Santiago Taboada holding 36% of preference.

Read More: Mexico Awaits Post-Debate Polls With Sheinbaum 25 Points Ahead

(Updates with detail on Mexicos elections in last paragraph)

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Former Vice President Mike Pence has landed a teaching job at Grove City College, a Christian school in Pennsylvania.

Pence delivered an address at the Institute for Faith and Freedom Conference at the college Thursday, where he spoke about the Israel-Hamas war and antisemitism.

The college announced it was establishing a Center for Faith and Public Life, where Pence will immediately begin serving as a distinguished visiting fellow.

It is my great honor to serve as a visiting fellow to Grove City Colleges new Center for Faith and Public Life, Pence said at the conference. Faith and engaging in public life are not mutually exclusive, nor should they ever be. History shows that Christians steadily working toward the common good have changed the world, and Grove City College opening a center shows they are committed to continuing this work.

Pence, an evangelical Christian, is outspoken about his religious beliefs. The former Indiana governor ran for president this cycle but suspended his campaign in October. He ran on his firm traditional conservative values, including stricter limits on abortion.

During his campaign, Pence was critical of his former running mate, former President Trump, who broke ties with the former vice president once Pence certified the results of the 2020 election.

Grove City College President Paul J. McNulty said Pence is the perfect choice for the position because he is an extraordinary role model for what it looks like to lead with wisdom and winsomeness in public life.

The school said the new center will expand awareness of the historic relationship between religious belief and public life and find ways to integrate faith into public policy and service but said it is not limited to government and politics and will look at business, education, media and other sectors.

Grove City College has been a pivotal institution in helping students grow in their faith and in understanding Gods calling for their life through a rigorous education and a faith-based community, Pence said. Grove City works to send out young men and women into the world to be beacons of light and truth in a world that needs leaders of integrity and principle.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Welcome back, Deadline: Legal Newsletter readers. The hush money trial is upon us. Donald Trump launched a barrage of delay bids this week, but the state appeals court swatted them down. That means that jury selection is set for Monday in the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president.

That jury selection will be crucial. Indeed, its where cases can be won or lost  before the first witness is even called to the stand. So expect a battle between prosecutors and defense lawyers over which Manhattanites sit on this historic case.

And the rules for this battle? Each side gets 10 strikes to reject potential jurors they dont want. Plus, Judge Juan Merchan can dismiss any number of people he thinks cant be fair. In the case against a man everyone has opinions about, it may take a while to assemble a final crew of 12 jurors (plus alternates, who will sub in if needed).

Curious what these prospective jurors will be asked? We learned all about that this week when Merchan released the questionnaire. Its a broad list of 42 queries, ranging from standard biographical info to whether they support QAnon or listen to Michael Cohens podcast. You can read the complete list here.

Stormy Daniels (Markus Schreiber / AP file)

Speaking of Cohen, we also learned more about potential witnesses. As expected, Trumps former fixer will likely be a key prosecution witness. We also know from NBC News reporting that among those who may take the stand for the state are alleged hush money recipients Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, as well as former Trump aide Hope Hicks.

Will Trump himself testify? Ill believe that when I see it. But that choice is up to each criminal defendant. Were a long way from that phase of the trial because the prosecution (which bears the burden of proof) presents its case first. Then well see what evidence, if any, the defense wants to put on.

But first, we need to pick a jury to hear that evidence. The presumptive GOP nominee has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg alleges that Trump tried to cover up the hush money reimbursement to Cohen, who paid the adult film star Daniels ahead of the 2016 election, to keep her quiet about previously having sex with Trump (which Trump has denied).

Also, next week, the Supreme Court will be back for the final two-week argument sitting of the term. The April session includes two disputes affecting Trumps federal election interference case: the April 25 immunity hearing and Fischer v. United States. Fischer, set for argument on Tuesday, involves a Jan. 6 defendant fighting the Justice Departments use of an obstruction law that Trump is also charged with in his Jan. 6 case. So if the high court says the government went too far in Fischers case, that could (but wont necessarily) weaken special counsel Jack Smiths case against Trump. Safe to say, the former president is likely rooting for the defense.

Have any questions or comments for me? Id love to hear from you! Please email deadlinelegal@nbcuni.com for a chance to be featured in a future newsletter.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The People of Switzerland Will Get to Vote on Their Countrys Famous Neutrality

Swiss flag at Geneva Lake in Geneva, Switzerland, on Dec. 31, 2018. Credit - Athanasios GioumpasisGetty Images

Armed with some 130,000 certified signatures, Swiss activists submitted a petition in Bern on Thursday that would pave the way for a national vote in the coming months on proposed constitutional amendments to enshrine Switzerlands longstanding policy of neutrality in international affairs. An initiative needs 100,000 signatures to get on the ballot.

Debate about Switzerlands neutrality sharpened last year after authorities followed in the European Unions footsteps to adopt increasing sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukrainebucking a centuries-long tradition of not taking sides in global conflicts. In 2022, a top Swiss official also warned that the country would impose punitive measures should China invade Taiwan, though Switzerland did not join subsequent E.U. sanctions against China.

A 2023 survey of Swiss voters found 91% of respondents approved of neutrality in general, though 75% believed sanctions against Russia were compatible with the principle.

Read More: The Architect of Swiss Neutrality Thinks Its Time for His Country to Take Sides

The initiative, introduced by advocacy group Pro Switzerland calls for Switzerland to avoid entering any military alliance unless it is attacked as well as to not impose any non-military coercive measures unless obligated by the United Nations. The amendment would also enshrine that Switzerland uses its perpetual neutrality to prevent and resolve conflicts and is available as a mediator.

The conservative Swiss Peoples Party (SVP) backs the initiative, saying in a press release on Thursday: The gradual dissolution of neutrality is a threat to Switzerlands internal and external security.

Critics argue the neutrality initiative would isolate Switzerland by destabilizing its relations with its partners, and the Federal Council that serves as head of state and government in Switzerland opposed the initiative when it was introduced, saying that it would restrict Switzerlands ability to maneuver on foreign policy and security.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Petro Says He Will Renegotiate Colombias Debt With IMF

(Bloomberg) -- President Gustavo Petro said on Thursday that he will negotiate to extend the terms of Colombias debt with the International Monetary Fund.

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Petro said the renegotiation would open a larger financing space for social spending and improve the countrys debt profile from a rally in the Northwestern department of Antioquia, without adding any details.

In 2020, the Colombian government withdrew $5.4 billion as part of a flexible credit line arrangement during the coronavirus pandemic. The country transferred $622 million in March to the institution, the first of eight scheduled repayments.

READ: Colombia Gets a New $9.8 Billion IMF Credit Line to Fight Crises

--With assistance from Oscar Medina and Eric Martin.

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Pew: Of U.S. Catholics, 75% approve of Pope Francis even as approval rating falls 8 points from 2021

A Pew poll published Friday found 75% of American Catholics approve of Pope Francis, an 8 point drop from the approval rating in a 2021 Pew poll. Majorities of respondents wanted the church to allow contraception and women priests.Photo by Stefano Spaziani/UPI

April 12 (UPI) -- A Pew Research poll published Friday shows 75% of American Catholics have favorable views of Pope Francis. It's a drop of 8 points from a 2021 poll.

Pew said in 2015 Francis had a 90% approval rating from U.S. Catholics. According to the Pew poll, Francis has higher favorable ratings that Pope Benedict XVI, but significantly lower ratings than Pope John Paul II.

Pew's poll found a partisan gap in opinions about Pope Francis.

"The partisan gap in views of Pope Francis is now as large as it's ever been in our surveys," Pew research said in a statement. "Roughly nine-in-ten Catholics who are Democrats or lean toward the Democratic Party hold a positive view of him, compared with 63% of Catholics who are Republicans or lean Republican."

What unites Americans from across the political spectrum is seeing Pope Francis as a change agent, according to Pew.

Roughly seven-in-ten view him as an agent of change, regardless of political leanings.

The Pew poll found 83% of U.S. Catholics want the church to allow contraception use and 75% say the church should allow communion even if people are unmarried and living with a romantic partner.

Solid majorities in Pew's poll of Catholics in the United States also said priests should be allowed to marry (69%), women should be allowed into the priesthood (64%) and the Catholic church should recognize gay marriage (54%).

Among Republicans or people leaning Republican, though, 72% said the church should not take those steps.

And their were differences of opinion in the Pew poll between Catholics who attend Mass regular versus those who identify as Catholics but do not attend regular Mass.

On allowing birth control, 90% who don't attend regular approve it, while it was 62% of those who attend Mass weekly approving.

For allowing women to be priests weekly Mass attendees opposed it 56%-41% while those who show up less frequently at Mass were for women priests 71%-27%.

On recognizing gay marriage people who attended Mass weekly opposed that 65%-33%. Those attending Mass less supported recognizing gay marriage in the church 61%-37%.
Pictured: Ukraine soldiers relax on a break from brutal fighting on the front line

Servicemen of the Svoboda (Freedom) battalion from the elite Storm Brigade Rubizh have been pictured relaxing at an awards ceremony after returning from the front line.

Looking weary from brutal fighting and happy to mingle with their comrades, soldiers from the National Guard of Ukraine listened to a concert ahead of the ceremony on Friday.

A proud Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, even posed for photos with some of them.

The men returned from fierce fighting in the Bakhmut area of the eastern Donetsk region amid Russias attack on Ukraine.

As the soldiers rest, the war rages on the front line around the Bakhmut area.

Men of the Svoboda (Freedom) battalion take a rest from fighting - Gleb Garanich/Reuters

Russia, which captured the eastern town of Avdiivka in February and controls 18 per cent of Ukrainian territory, has inched forward in the Donetsk region, keeping up pressure on the fronts west of Avdiivka and Bakhmut.

Over the past 24 hours, Vladimir Putins forces launched five attacks in the Bakhmut area, as well as the nearby Novopavlivka front.

Ukrainian and Russian soldiers reportedly clashed 53 times.

On the Bakhmut front, Ukrainian soldiers are said to have repelled 15 Russian attacks, where the enemy, supported by aircraft, sought to improve their tactical position.

Soldiers relax as they get a break from the front lines - Gleb Garanich/Reuters

Civilian areas have been vulnerable to the attacks.

Kyivs forces have found themselves on the back foot in recent weeks, facing shortages of artillery shells and air defences, and grappling with manpower problems.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, who inspected defensive fortifications in the Kharkiv region on Tuesday, has said that Russia may be preparing a big offensive in late May or in June.

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The device had been used to assist with target practice in the 1940s and 50s

NPS/Hohman piece of drone

A piece of World War II history has washed ashore in Massachusetts.

According to a statement shared by the Cape Cod National Seashore (CCNS) on Wednesday, April 10, a piece of a World War II-era drone plane was found last week.

John Woike/Tribune News Service via Getty Marconi Beach

The National Park's staff published a photo of a man-made object that had washed up on Marconi Beach in a Facebook post.

Related: WWII Veteran's Postcard Is Finally Delivered to His Family 77 Years Later: 'It's a Crazy Story'

Exhibiting clear signs of wear and tear, the device was pictured lying in the sand.

Staff members with the CCNS, a protected environment overseen by the National Park Service, came together to remove the object from the beach before it was carried away by the waves due to an incoming storm, the post said.

Once it was moved to a safe location, park historian Bill Burke examined the object and determined that it was in fact the fuselage of a RCAT (Remote Control Aerial Target).

NPS Archives airplane and men

It has been decades since the part was last used to assist with target practice in the 1940s and 1950s  most notably for anti-aircraft training off Marconi at Camp Wellfleet, a former U.S. military training camp.

The former camp was used from 1943 to 1961 and sat on nearly 1,738 acres of land located along the Atlantic Ocean on the Cape Cod peninsula.

Though it is now a recreational area currently used for sunbathing, surfing, fishing, hiking, hunting, and picnicking, the Army warns that munitions and explosives of concern (MEC) may remain within the project area.

Related: 2 Men Working to Find Unexploded WWII Bombs Killed After One Detonates in Solomon Islands

Aircraft equipped with an RCAT would take off from a now defunct runway located in the woods of Wellfleet, the CCNS staff continued of the drone discovery. The RCAT would then be rocket-launched off the aircraft at 0 to 60 mph within the first 30 feet, and then controlled remotely from the bluff.

The fuselage isnt the only remnant of World War II to be discovered recently.

Just last month almost a dozen shipwrecks off the coast of the small island of Kasos, Greece in the Aegean Sea turned up artifacts dating back to 3,000 B.C., La Brujula Verde magazine reported.

Hellenic Ministry of Culture shipwreck discovery

The most recent finds were from World War II.

In total, 10 shipwrecks were found as part of a four-year survey conducted from 2019 to 2023.

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It is the first systematic research on the seabed of Kasos with the main objective of locating, recording and studying the antiquities of an area at the crossroads of cultures and once a center of navigation, the survey's website says, translated from Greek by CBS News.

A film called Diving into the History of the Aegean will take a deeper look into their findings, according to La Brujula Verde.



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Read the original article on People.
UPDATE: Keshawn has been found safe.

Pittsburgh police are searching for a missing 11-year-old boy who is considered to be at risk.

Keshawn Jones, 11, is 5 feet tall and weighs 135 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.

He was last seen leaving his home in the 1000 block of Herron Avenue after school on Thursday, wearing a red hoodie and sweatpants and black shoes.

Keshawn is known to spend time in the parks around Polish Hill and the Strip District.

He is considered at risk due to his age and Thursdays severe weather, police said.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call 412-323-7141 or 911.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

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Loading fish into distribution truck at the Creston National Fish Hatchery staff use a fish pump to load rainbow trout. Approximately 5,000 fish were taken to the Blackfoot Reservation in Montana for stocking (Photo courtesy of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service via Flickr). Credit: USFWS

Most Montanans would be surprised to hear there are more than 10,000 private ponds across our state  a state which is internationally known for its sparkling rivers and wild trout fisheries. One might also wonder why Montanas Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is approving 200 more private ponds every year  one a day for each working day at the agency.

Yet, those numbers are real as related to a legislative interim committee by Eileen Ryce, the Departments Fisheries Division Administrator whose job is to regulate the ponds and, more importantly, what fish get put in those ponds.

But its tough to regulate when there are hardly any regulations  and when it comes to importing fish for private ponds, Montanas regulatory structure barely exists. Its so bad Ryce is justifiably worried that tragedies will ensue as people have fish and the water theyre in shipped in from hatcheries all across the nation  and that happens more than a hundred times a year, not counting illegal shipments.

Simply put, hatcheries are designed for exactly one purpose  to grow as many fish as possible in as quickly as possible. And therein lies the rub. Because hatcheries concentrate far more fish into far less space than any natural river, lake, or stream, they have significant problems with diseases.

Montanans who have been around for awhile will recall the outbreak of whirling disease on Montanas Upper Madison River a few decades back that wiped out the rainbow trout. But few know that Montana frequently received both fish and eggs from Colorado hatcheries, where biologists knew their hatcheries had whirling disease but believed it was a hatchery disease that wouldnt survive in the wild.

Not only did they continue to plant numerous streams and rivers in Colorado with diseased fish, Montana routinely received both fish and eggs from Colorado hatcheries and planted them in Montanas waters  including Hebgen Lake, which is directly upstream from the Upper Madison. Just coincidence? Hardly.

So when it comes to private parties buying fish to stock their ponds from out-of-state hatcheries, the chance for diseases such as whirling, or any number of diseases common to hatcheries, is far from minimal. According to the regulations, those hatcheries only have to be inspected annually  and Montanas private ponds get a license for 10 years between inspections.

Disease, however, is only one of the threats. The other is illegal introduction of species that are not allowed in Montana and are wholly inappropriate to be located near or in the flood plains of our major rivers. Yes, in the floodplain  and Fish, Wildlife and Parks is indeed approving private ponds located in the flood plain, as well as outflows and groundwater connected to streams and rivers.

It would be great to say Montanas Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is so competent that none of these threats will materialize. But one only need to look at the agencys introduction of mycis shrimp into Flathead Lake that wiped out the once abundant salmon fishery and completely changed the aquatic ecosystem to prove that assumption false.

Agencies make mistakes  and they make a lot more when they dont even have adequate regulations to follow. Approving a pond a day basically ensures Montanas world-famous rivers will be plagued by disease and illegal species introductions  and in this case, forewarned is not forearmed.

So what can we do? Fish, Wildlife and Parks should put a moratorium on new private pond approvals until a realistic and workable regulatory structure is in place. After all, whats the rush? There are plenty of rivers and lakes to fish, so why risk the potential for disaster?

The post A plague of private ponds  the latest threat to Montanas fish and rivers appeared first on Daily Montanan.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A lounge near Plaza Midwood was found to be in violation by the North Carolina Alcohol and Beverage Control Commission after a video surfaced on social media depicting a sex act taking place on a couch inside the venue.

Records provided to Queen City News by ABC officials stated that a video posted on social media showed a man tying and untying a woman who was seated on a black couch at Haze Hookah Bar & Lounge on Central Ave.

Records stated that the video then showed a sexual act being performed between the two.

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Crime & Public Safety

There is no mention of any charges against the two individuals.

A CMPD detective spoke with a lounge manager who was present at the time of the video recording and confirmed the recording occurred inside the lounge.

Previous violations at Haze include fines for selling liquor bottles during happy hour and missing tax stamps, ABC officials said. Haze has been notified of the violation and can choose to either pay the fine or receive a suspension.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Radosaw Sikorski, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland, criticised the US Congress for prolonged delay in deciding on assistance to Ukraine. He emphasised that Ukraine is already running out of missiles for its air defence systems, so the humanitarian situation will worsen.

Source: European Pravda, citing Sikorski in an interview with CNN on 11 April, when the Russians launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine and, in particular, destroyed the Trypillia TPP.

Details: Sikorski stated that such strikes on civilian infrastructure constitute a war crime, and emphasised that Kyiv has long been requesting the unlocking of US aid.

Quote from the minister: "Now we have the result [of its absence]. One after another, Ukrainian power stations are being destroyed. Soon, Ukrainian cities will be out of electricity. I expect it to become a wave of refugees."

Details: He reminded how US President Joe Biden came to Kyiv with an exceptional visit before the first anniversary of the full-scale war and assured Ukrainians of the US continued support, while the project for additional funding to support Ukraine has been awaiting Congress' decision practically since August 2023.

"I appeal again to Speaker Johnson: let democracy decide in the US Congress, to let this matter up for a vote, so that the money and the equipment can reach Ukraine. If it doesnt the Russians will do more destruction, and the United States credibility will be at stake," Sikorski emphasised.

Details: He added that Poland itself already spends about 4% of GDP on defence, referring to former President Donald Trump's long standing criticisms that Europeans are not contributing enough to NATO's collective security, relying entirely on the US.

"In fact, I have to tell you: Europe, the European Union and its member states, have spent double what the United States has spent on helping Ukraine. We are often suspected in the United States, including in Congress, of being free-riders. Well, on this one, we have done the right thing. We now need the United States to do what the President of the United States has promised," the minister said.

Background:

On 11 April, Polish President Andrzej Duda discussed the transfer of Soviet missiles for air defence systems to Ukraine at a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Vilnius.

The Prime Ministers of the Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Denmark discussed options for supplying Ukraine with additional air defence equipment on 10 April.

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Interviewing Bob Beisner (Luke Basso, Filmperia)

The men and women who put on the uniform to serve their country have gone above and beyond for us. The impact that Veterans play in our society is important and it is crucial to honor what they did for us. I am a high school senior that lives in the United States. Taking an interest in military and political history has led to the creation of my YouTube channel, Filmperia. On Filmperia, you can see interviews of veterans and historical witnesses from WWII through today. Over 60 interviews and two mini documentaries can be found here. Persevering their stories is essential for our future.

Recently, I interviewed Vietnam Veteran, Bob Beisner. He originally intended to become an armored officer when he joined the U.S. Army in May 1967. However, Beisner ended up becoming an infantry platoon leader. He was a second lieutenant in the 25th Infantry Division. During his first combat experience, his unit was under intense enemy fire. Beisner thought to himself how he was a dedicated Christian, and he could not take the life of another human. He realized it was either his life or their lives and shot back at them. This was only the beginning of his tour.

The closest call Beisner had was when a booby trap went off causing an explosion. He went flying in the air and he could see the light in his eyes before he hit the ground. One of his soldiers rushed towards him and said, Lieutenant, you just had the strangest look on your face.

For more about the in depth reality of being an infantry officer during the Vietnam War, watch the rest of Beisners interview on Filmperia.

For inquiries or to suggest a Veteran or historical witness comfortable with being interviewed on my channel, please email me at lukeb.filmperia@gmail.com. It is important to preserve history!
Lawmakers in Poland have voted in favor of measures to ease the country's near-total ban on abortion, setting the stage for a potential clash over women's rights with the country's conservative president. With their vote on Friday, parliamentarians endorsed several proposals to relax the abortion restrictions, including one from newly elected Prime Minister Donald Tusk's party to decriminalize abortions up to 12 weeks into a pregnancy.

The proposals, however, are likely to face opposition from President Andrzej Duda, who is aligned with the staunchly conservative Law and Justice Party, known by its Polish initials PiS.

Poland's current abortion law, introduced in 2020 by a PiS-backed court, is widely regarded as one of the strictest in Europe. It allows for abortions only in very limited circumstances. Even in cases of severe fetal abnormalities or rape, abortion is not permitted under the current law.

Punishment for having the procedure can vary depending on the circumstances, but even helping someone obtain an abortion in Poland or promoting the procedure carries a potential penalty of up to three years in prison.

Several expectant mothers have died of complications in recent years after doctors refused to terminate their pregnancies, fearing prosecution.

Two of the proposed bills backed by lawmakers on Friday aim to decriminalize abortions up to the 12th week of pregnancy, while another focuses on decriminalizing abortion altogether.

Despite campaign promises from Tusk to liberalize Poland's abortion laws, his government is now grappling with the extent of the changes it feels it can back. The issue has shown deep divisions within Polish society, with some advocating for greater reproductive freedoms while others staunchly opposing any loosening of the current restrictions.

Abortion rights supporters hold the All Women's Strike flag as they celebrate after watching Poland's Parliament vote on four draft proposals to amend abortion laws in the country, April 12, 2024, in Warsaw, Poland. / Credit: Omar Marques/Getty Images

The president of the parliament, Szymon Holownia, has proposed holding a national referendum on the issue. A referendum result backing an easing of the restrictions would heap more pressure on Duda, who has so far vetoed any attempt to amend the existing laws that were pushed through by his political allies.

A November 2022 survey in Polan found that 70% of respondents supported legal abortions up to the 12th week of pregnancy, indicating widespread public support for an easing of the current laws.

The measures voted on Friday were not pieces of actual legislation, just proposals on which future bills could be based. But along with the public opinion polls and moderate Prime Minister Tusk's December election win over incumbent Mateusz Morawiecki, a right-wing nationalist of the PiS party, it hints at a wider shift in attitudes in what has emerged over the last decade to be one of Europe's most conservative-leaning nations.

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Read the full story on The Auto Wire

Police Say Hellcat Theft Claims Were Insurance Fraud, But Owner Has Another Story

Theres no doubt Dodge Hellcats are hot property right now. With values soaring as Dodge moves from the Hemi V8s to the Hurricane inline-sixes, its not just collectors who are looking to cash in. Quite a few Hellcats fall victim to car theft. But one man who said his was stolen has been accused by police of engaging in an insurance fraud scheme.

Thieves cant steal a non-running Dodge Hellcat.

When the man, who lives in Memphis, Tennessee, reported his Challenger Hellcat stolen, he eventually was able to collect a whopping $91,000 from his insurance provider. But police say the guy had reported the same Mopar muscle car as stolen only months before, only using a different VIN, as reported by WREG.

Once police made this allegation, they charged him with theft of property and booked him into jail. But the guy says hes not only innocent but was taken for a ride and the police have everything backwards.

Back in January 2023 the man reported to police that his 2019 Dodge Challenger Hellcat had been stolen as it sat outside a building in downtown Memphis. In March he was given the $91,077.85 check by Progressive.

However, in November 2023, Progressive was contacted by Memphis Airport Police since the same guy filed a report about his 2021 Dodge Challenger Hellcat being stolen from long-term parking. What made police suspicious was the alleged victim providing a fake VIN in the police report.

That led police to conclude the 2021 Challenger Hellcat never actually existed and was in fact the 2019 muscle car re-vinned to try passing it off as a different vehicle. Weve seen this trick employed many times, but usually by thieves who then try selling a car to private buyer or a dealership.

The Hellcat owner contacted WREG after it originally ran the story and told his side. He claims to have been a victim in a complex web of fraud.

Supposedly, after the 2019 Dodge Challenger Hellcat was stolen, he found a replacement vehicle on Facebook Marketplace, which he then bought. Even though it was a different color, he now thinks it was the same one which was stolen from him. What are the chances?

He also claims the Hellcat was stolen from him a second time as it sat at the airport. The guy must have the worst luck ever.

Image via Isaiah Gutierrez/Facebook

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Angela Rayner, pictured during a visit to Perry Barr bus depot in Birmingham, is being investigated over claims that she gave false information about where she was living - Jacob King/PA

Police are investigating Angela Rayner over the sale of her council house and a potential breach of electoral law.

Ms Rayner, the deputy Labour leader, was reported to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) by James Daly, a Conservative MP, over claims that she may have committed an offence by giving false information about where she was living.

Questions have also been raised over whether she mis-paid capital gains tax over the 2015 sale of the property she owned in Vicarage Road, Stockport.

In March, GMP said Ms Rayner would not face an investigation. However, it was forced to reassess its decision after Mr Daly complained that officers appeared not to have contacted witnesses or looked at the electoral roll, deeds and other relevant documents.

On Friday, a GMP spokesman said: Were investigating whether any offences have been committed. This follows a reassessment of the information provided to us by Mr Daly.

The police investigation centres on the fact that Ms Rayner was registered on the electoral roll at one property  the Vicarage Road house  but it is alleged she was living at her husbands home at the time.

If she declared false information, this would be an offence. Under electoral rules, voters are expected to register at their permanent address.

The announcement came after The Telegraph revealed on Thursday that police had yet to contact neighbours of Ms Rayner, who may hold crucial information.

The Labour Party said it remained confident that Ms Rayner had complied with the rules, and that the Ashton-under-Lyne MP welcomes the chance to set out the facts with the police.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, said he was confident that his best friend Ms Rayner would be cleared. I fully support Angela Rayner  Im confident that shell be vindicated in relation to the police investigation, he said.

Neighbours have previously said they were adamant that Ms Rayner lived full-time at her husbands home for about six years.

A spokesman for the Electoral Commission said: Individuals may register to vote at more than one address. However, it is an offence to knowingly provide false information in the voter registration application form.

If found to have broken the rules, Ms Rayner could potentially face a fine of up to 1,000.

The allegation that she failed to properly declare her main home first emerged in a book by Lord Ashcroft, the former Tory deputy chairman.

The unauthorised biography alleges that she bought her former council house in Vicarage Road with a 25 per cent discount under the right-to-buy scheme in 2007. She is said to have made a 48,500 profit when selling it eight years later.

Government guidance says a tenant can apply to buy their council home through the right-to-buy scheme if it is their only or main home.

Ms Rayners husband was listed at another address in Lowndes Lane, about a mile away, which had also been bought under the right-to-buy scheme.

In the same year as her wedding, Ms Rayner is said to have re-registered the births of her two youngest children, giving her address as where her husband resided.

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However, she has insisted that Vicarage Road was her principal property. If, when she sold it, it was not her principal residence, she would have been liable to pay capital gains tax.

The Conservative Party has demanded that Ms Rayner publish the tax advice she says she received, which she has so far refused to do. She has said she would be prepared to hand over that information, if necessary, to either HMRC or the police.

Tax experts have said this may not amount to a crime if it was done by mistake, as ignorance is a defence to tax evasion allegations.

HMRC has said it could not confirm or deny whether it was carrying out its own investigation into Ms Rayners tax affairs as it did not comment on individual cases.

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A man wanted in connection with a domestic violence incident was arrested after officials say he rammed his pickup truck into a police cruiser and drove off a Steamship Authority ferry ramp in an attempt to evade capture on Marthas Vineyard on Thursday night.

The suspect, whose name hasnt been released, is slated to be arraigned Friday in Edgartown District Court on charges including two counts of assault and battery on a family or household member, assault and battery with a motor vehicle, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, two counts of vandalism, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, refusal to stop for police, trespassing with a motor vehicle, and speeding, according to the Oak Bluffs Police Department.

An Oaks Bluff police sergeant was on patrol on the island when he spotted a Ford F-250 pickup truck being driven by a man wanted for arrestable crimes of violence that occurred in Oaks Bluff earlier in the evening, Oaks Bluff Police Lieutenant Nicholas W. Curelli said in a news release.

The sergeant attempted to stop the pickup truck in the area of Masonic Avenue but the driver allegedly accelerated rapidly in reverse and rammed into the front of his cruiser, causing significant damage.

The truck then sped off and the sergeant couldnt keep up with the driver because of the damage to his cruiser, according to Curelli. The sergeant later spotted the driver turn onto the gated ramp of the Steamship Authority Dock at the corner of Seaview and Oak Bluffs avenues, where the truck launched off of a ferry ramp into the water.

After the police requested help from the Oak Bluffs Fire Department and the United States Coast Guard, search teams observed the suspect as he swam away from the ramp and climbed a ladder onto a large piling. Firefighters and police officers then drove a boat over to the suspect and took him into custody.

The suspect was treated at Marthas Vineyard Hospital for minor hand injuries and booked into the Dukes County Jail.

As of Friday morning, the pickup truck was still in the water at the Oak Bluffs Terminal as crews awaited weather improvements and the arrival of a barge and crane, according to the Steamship Authority.

The Authority is cooperating fully with the Massachusetts State Police and Oak Bluffs Police Department in their investigation into the incident, the Authority said in a statement. The Authority is reviewing its video footage of the event to determine if any is able to be released in accordance with its security procedures.

An investigation remains ongoing.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Nakita Chantryce Davidson, 40, disappeared from the collision site, leaving behind a pink Nike sneaker

Birmingham Police Department Nakita Chantryce Davidson

Police are looking for Cedric Dewayne Robertson, 37, and have released a former mug shot to aid in his capture

It is unclear the relationship between Robertson and the woman he allegedly kidnapped, Nakita Chantryce Davidson

Police believe she was seriously injured in the crash and ensuing alleged attack and say she is in extreme danger

When police arrived at the site of a two-car crash near a Birmingham, Ala., cemetery, neither driver was on the scene.

Now Birmingham police are looking for Nakita Chantryce Davidson, 40, one of the drivers involved in the crash, who police believe was kidnapped from the crash site and is seriously injured and in extreme danger, according to press releases.

Police are now looking for both Davidson and the man they believe to be responsible for her disappearance.

Birmingham Police Dept. Cedric Dewayne Robertson

The Jefferson County District Attorney's Office has issued a warrant for the arrest of Cedric Dewayne Robertson, 37, charged with kidnapping in the first degree, per police. (It is not clear if Robertson was the other driver involved in the collision.)

Police say they responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision at 6th Avenue SW and MLK in Birmingham, near Elmwood Cemetery & Mausoleum at 2:11 a.m., Thursday, April 11.

There, police say they found evidence of a possible assault or shooting, launching an ongoing kidnapping and assault investigation.

Birmingham Police Department Nakita Chantryce Davidson's missing person's poster

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Investigators believe Davidson was taken from the scene less than 30 minutes before officers arrival.

Davidson, a Black woman who is 5-feet, 4-inches and weighs approximately 200 pounds, was last seen wearing a long pink dress and jacket with powder pink Nike sneakers, per a Facebook post by police, which details the missing persons case.

Birmingham Police Dept. Police recovered this light pink Nike sneaker during their search for Nakita Chantryce Davidson, who has been missing since the early morning of Thursday, April 11.

Investigators located a burgundy and black Chevy Traverse with an unknown year and tag number, which appears to have belonged to the other unidentified driver.

Davidsons 2008 burgundy Saturn Outlook had been driven away from the crash site, per police who recovered it at an undisclosed location.

Investigators also recovered one of her pink sneakers, frayed at the heel.



If you have information about the whereabouts of Nakita Chantryce Davidson or Cedric Dewayne Robertson, you may call 911 Emergency Services or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.



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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Las Vegas police said a man was stabbed to death outside of a gas station on the Las Vegas Strip early Friday morning.

According to police, at around 2 a.m., an employee at a gas station in the 2300 block of Las Vegas Boulevard reported someone was stabbed outside of the business.

Arriving officers found a man with a stab wound. Medical personnel took the victim to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries, where he was later pronounced dead.

Investigators believe the victim was involved in a fight behind the business with two people before the stabbing. Those two suspects have yet to be identified, police say, and fled the scene before LVMPD officers arrived.

Investigators ask anyone with information on the stabbing to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section at 702-828-3521 or via email at homicide@lvmpd.com. Additionally, those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555 or via the organizations website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Police seek help locating missing at-risk teen girl last seen in south Bakersfield

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Police are seeking help in locating an at-risk missing teen girl who was last seen in south Bakersfield.

Police said Mariah Flett, 18, was last seen April 10 in the 400 block of Ginger Snap Lane, just south of Berkshire Road, at 6 p.m. She is considered at risk due to an intellectual disability.

Bakersfield Animal Care Center in need of short-term fosters before April 19th

Flett stands 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighs 110 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing an unknown color shirt and black tights.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call BPD at 661-327-7111.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Thousands of dollars in cash and hundreds of illegally trafficked fentanyl pills were seized Friday from Salt Lake Citys Jordan River Trail.

This was part of the Salt Lake City Police Departments ongoing efforts to address criminal activity along that route.

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Investigations began around 12:30 a.m. Friday, April 12, when two SLCPD bike squad officers said they saw a group of people illegally trespassing on the Jordan River Trail near 1240 West North Temple.

The officers conducted a traffic stop and found 231 fentanyl pills, more than $2,000 in cash, and nearly three grams of cocaine. Everyone in the car was arrested on charges of being in unlawful possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, SLCPD said.

Courtesy Salt Lake City Police Department

The names and ages of these suspects are not available at this time.

The police department said illegal fentanyl trafficking continues to be a major concern.

According to the DEA, fentanyl has saturated the drug market in Utah. It is cheaper, more potent, and more widely available than ever before.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
UPDATE: Law enforcement confirms that Marcus Oglesby, 31, the suspect in a shooting Friday morning was not in a home on Drexel Ave. in Lansing. Law enforcement spent hours surrounding the home after discovering a Jeep Patriot tied to the incident. They deployed some sort of projectiles that produced gas into the windows of the home.

Lt. Rene Gonzalez of the Michigan State Police tells 6 News law enforcement will continue the search for Oglesby, who was being sought by the Michigan Department of Corrections Parole Absconder Unit, will continue through the night.

Oglesby is considered armed and dangerous.

UPDATE: 6 News can confirm the vehicle law enforcement had been seeking in connection with Friday mornings shooting incident in Delta Township is at the property currently surrounded by law enforcement.

The vehicle is a black Jeep Patriot with a Michigan plate ERA 9231 and a bumper sticker that reads, Trust me you dont want to be this close.

The suspect, Marcus Oglesby and another person were in this black Jeep Patriot. (Photo: Michigan State Police)

The suspect, Marcus Oglesby and another person were in this black Jeep Patriot. (Photo: Michigan State Police)

The Eaton County Sheriffs Department, Lansing Township Police Department and Lansing Police Department are assisting in the search for Oglesby

The Eaton County Sheriffs Department, Lansing Township Police Department and Lansing Police Department are assisting in the search for Oglesby

The suspect, Marcus Oglesby and another person were in this black Jeep Patriot. (Photo: Michigan State Police)

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Law enforcement has surrounded a home in the 1800 block of Drexel Rd. on the citys westside.

6 News has confirmed the presence is connected to a shooting that occurred Friday morning in Delta Township.

A 6 News team on scene heard law enforcement notify Marcus Oglesby they know he is in the home currently surrounded.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Oglesby has been the subject of a day long search after police said he open fire on officers from the Michigan Department of Corrections.

Michigan State Police Lt. Rene Gonzalez said Friday morning members of the Michigan Department of Corrections Parole Absconder Unit were in an unmarked vehicle watching a suspect who was a passenger in a different vehicle on the 1700 block of Waverly near Saginaw.

Booking photograph of Marcus Oglesby. (MI Dept. of Corrections)

State police said the suspect is Oglesby, 31, from Jackson. He is described as being 61 and 135 lbs.

Gonzales said the officers began following the suspect on Waverly when that vehicle stopped and the suspect got out and fired shots at the unmarked vehicle. The vehicle was hit but no person was injured. Officers did return fire and its not known if anything or anyone was hit.

The suspect got back into the vehicle and was chased by officers to the parking lot of a plaza at the corner of Saginaw and Waverly. This is when the suspect got out and ran. The driver of the vehicle the suspect was in also left the scene, according to police.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
Description

Based on the new book of the same name, Making Long Island: A History of Growth & the American Dream tells the fascinating story of the development of Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk counties) between 1920 and 1980. Between the 1920s and 1950s, Long Island served as a primary site of the pursuit of the American dream, as it was affordable home ownership for the middle class that most compellingly expressed the nations core mythology. Beginning in the 1960s, however, that dream began to dissolve, as the postwar economic engine ran out of steam and as Long Island became as much urban as suburban. Despite all its current economic and social challenges, a new and improved American dream appears to be emerging on Long Island, and the place unarguably remains one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

Lawrence R. Samuel is a Miami- and New York City-based cultural historian and a Long Island native. He holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Minnesota and was a Smithsonian Institution Fellow. His previous books include The End of the Innocence: The 1964-1965 New York Worlds Fair (Syracuse University Press, 2007), New York City 1964: A Cultural History (McFarland, 2014), Tudor City: Manhattans Historic Residential Enclave (The History Press, 2019), and Dead on Arrival in Manhattan: Stories of Unnatural Demise from the Past Century (The History Press, 2021).

Townsend Talks is a monthly lecture series in which speakers from Long Island and around the country offer fascinating insights into history, decorative arts, architecture, horticulture, and other fields that connect with our site and our mission. Lectures are $20 for museum members, $25 for nonmembers, and $10 for students (with ID) unless otherwise noted. The program begins in the Visitors Center, and light refreshments are included.
(Bloomberg) -- Polands government stepped up calls for an in-depth investigation into the affairs of the countrys oil champion Orlen SA after the company booked a $400 million loss on crude it ordered but didnt receive.

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Orlens shares extended losses on Friday. The developments follow this weeks revelations that during the tenure of former Orlen chief executive officer Daniel Obajtek, the companys Swiss trading unit didnt receive barrels that it undertook prepayments for, forcing the state-run parent to write off 1.6 billion zloty, or $400 million.

The units payments were made to oil intermediaries with which the company had never dealt before and without security, Orlen said in a statement on Thursday. The loss and the unusual nature of the payments call into question the companys corporate controls.

The write-off is a huge loss, which indicates extreme irresponsibility, Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski told Radio Zet on Friday, calling on prosecutors to carry out an thorough probe. Tomasz Siemoniak, the minister in charge of special services, told Wp.pl that prosecutors are dealing with Orlen with utmost seriousness.

Orlen has been at the center of controversy under Obajtek, a loyalist of Polands previous populist administration. In January, prosecutors started several probes into Orlens acquisition of oil refiner Grupa Lotos SA as well as its pricing policies, which caused shortages of fuel at filling stations last year.

Discount Valuation

Shares in the refiner fell as much as 2.5% on Friday before closing 0.5% lower in Warsaw. The stock lost 2.2% on Thursday.

So far, the market reaction isnt big as investors had already priced the company at a discount, taking into account the already low corporate governance standards, said Kamil Kliszcz, an analyst at mBank SA. This fraud case, even though its substantial, isnt a total surprise, given the ongoing audit of the company by the new government.

Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski urged prosecutors and other services to thoroughly look at what Obajtek was doing, while Tomasz Siemoniak, the coordinator for Polands special services, told Wp.pl that prosecutors are dealing with the Orlen case with utmost seriousness.

Obajtek said on X that responsibility for the Swiss units transaction is with its current managers. Responding to a different dispute over tenders, he said that audits showed that various Orlen procurement processes were done legally and with oversight from the countrys security services.

Michal Rog, a former Orlen management board member in charge of trade and logistics who worked with Obajtek, said in a statement sent to state PAP newswire on Friday that as of late February, the company had open contracts for diesel deliveries from Bahrain, crude and heating oil supplies from Venezuela as well as agreements for oil from South Sudan.

According to Rog, all the Swiss units business partners were verified by the company and all were ready to fulfill their contracts. In its statement on Thursday, Orlen said that the suspect deliveries were scheduled to be completed by the end of January.

A former CEO of the Swiss unit, which was set up by Orlen in August 2022, was detained in Poland two months ago as part of an investigation into tax fraud from last decade unrelated to the oil company, according to the prosecutors office in Bydgoszcz, Poland. He was released on 250,000 zloty bail. Polands special services are also checking whether Orlen hasnt breached Russian sanctions, Radio Zet reported, without citing anyone.

Since Obajteks departure, Orlens new management has announced a total of $3.8 billion in write-offs and said it will probably not pay any extra dividend as it continues to audit the firms finances.

What could have a negative effect on the company is any new information that it broke embargos and faces a penalty, or that the Swiss units troubles are a systemic issue, mBanks Kliszcz said. On the other hand, a meticulous audit of the past helps some investors believe that the new management will tidy up procurement and investment policies, which could bring substantial savings.

--With assistance from Konrad Krasuski.

(Updates with closing price, new details and comments from a former Orlen manager, starting in the second paragraph.)

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Polish President Andrzej Duda speaks at an event during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024 in Davos. Hannes P Albert/dpa

Polish President Andrzej Duda has appealed to other NATO states to increase the production of ammunition to deter potential attacks from Russia.

"The whole of Europe must join forces with the United States to produce more [ammunition], especially artillery shells. This is necessary to ensure our security," said Duda in an interview on Lithuanian television on Thursday evening.

If NATO really wanted to deter potential attacks, it would have to produce the same quantity as Russia, said Duda.

Duda was in Lithuania for a summit of the states of the so-called Three Seas Initiative in Vilnius. The grouping brings together 13 EU member states situated along the north-south axis between the Baltic, Adriatic and Black Seas.

Duda said Russia would soon be able to produce more than 2 million artillery shells per year and called the supply of ammunition in NATO countries completely inadequate.

The Polish president also urged for a "tough policy to increase the defence potential in the West." This was the "most important task" of NATO states today, including the countries of Central Europe.

He said this and the support of Ukraine would enable the West to defend itself against Russian imperialism.

Ukraine has been fending off a full-scale Russian invasion for more than two years and is largely dependent on Western support for its military equipment.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  Portsmouth Public Schools (PPS) released a list of updates and events coming up this spring.

Two events are coming up in April:

On Saturday, April 20, the Portsmouth Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is holding its annual Community Resource Fair. The fair will take place at the JE Parker Recreation Center, 2430 Turnpike Road from 9 a.m. to noon. At the fair, find giveaways, food, special prizes and information about community resources. To find out more information, call 757-393-8792.

On Saturday, April 27 the Fourth Annual Color Run will take place at Churchland High School, 4301 Cedar Ln at 9 a.m. It is a 3K distance. Each year, it helps to raise funds to provide swim lessons for Portsmouth Public School families. In 2023, the event had over 1,000 participants.

They released two updates for programming:

School Orchestra Artistic Residency (SOAR) program

Portsmouth Public Schools is partnering with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for the School Orchestra Artistic Residency (SOAR) program. In the program, musicians will come in during the school day to work with Portsmouth Public Schools six middle and high school programs.

The program has been ongoing for years. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra provides the service at no charge to the school division. Musicians will be present at select dates through May. To view the complete list of times, call 757-393-8743.

PPS Bright Start Preschool program

Applications are now open. Staff are currently accepting applications for children to be a part of the program. It is for children who will be 4-years-old on or before Sept. 30, 2024. Families with children that meet the age requirement can complete and return their applications through Thursday, May 30. Click here to find out more information and schedule an in-person registration appointment on the PreK Registration webpage.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
A Portuguese man has been sentenced in Hong Kong for posting pro-independence content on social media, becoming the first European to be punished under the controversial China-imposed national security law.

Joseph John, also known as Wong Kin-Chung, has dual citizenship of Portugal and Hong Kong. He was sentenced to five years in jail on Thursday for incitement to secession under the stringent law.

Under the law, which has been used to silence critics and pro-democracy voices, secession is the offence of advocating for Hong Kong to break away from China.

John was arrested in 2022 after he returned to Hong Kong to visit his family. He was charged for posting pro-independence and anti-China content on social media.

The 41-year-old had been running social media activities and a website for a political group called the Hong Kong Independence Party. The groups website was registered in the UK where he was previously based.

The group advocated for foreign intervention in Chinas rule over Hong Kong following the 2019 pro-democracy protests.

The prosecution outlined 42 posts on the partys social media handles that they considered secessionist, including calls for the UK and US to send troops to Hong Kong and crowdfunding to build an army for Hong Kong.

The pages were shut down in 2022 when John returned to Hong Kong to visit his ailing mother. But he was arrested by the authorities during his trip.

Following months-long investigation during which remained in custody, John pleaded guilty to inciting secession in February and was convicted in March.

In his sentencing trial on Thursday, Judge Ernest Lin said John had distorted history, demonised China, and appealed to foreign countries to destroy [Hong Kong] and China by political or simply violent means.

Those posts lent excuses to foreign politicians ... to criticize, boycott and even suppress China and (Hong Kong) in the name of helping Hong Kong, Mr Lin said.

He was sentenced to five years in prison under the stringent act, a common punishment for serious cases.

Protest against Hong Kong's new Article 23 national security law in Taipei (REUTERS)

John was denied bail several times during his 16-month custody which has become a standard practice in Hong Kong for defendants in cases relating to the national security law.

He was also denied consular access, according to Portuguese officials, as Beijing does not allow dual citizenship.

Representatives from Portugal and the European Union were present in the Hong Kong District Court on Thursday.

Since the enactment of the controversial law in 2020, in response to the massive pro-democracy protests, this is believed to be the first time a European citizen has been sentenced.

However, approximately 300 people have been arrested so far under the law until 31 January 2023, according to Hong Kong Security Bureau.

The act, widely criticised by EU and United Nations as deeply worrying, criminalises anything that relates to treason, sabotage, sedition, the theft of state secrets, external interference and espionage with sentences ranging from several years to life imprisonment.

Critics say the act is vaguely worded and makes it easy for authorities to target individuals who criticse the authorities.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  Navigating the roads of southern Colorado, many drivers encounter a common frustration: potholes. The wide range of weather conditions in the Pikes Peak Region contributes to significant damage to the citys infrastructure, as water seeps into road cracks, exacerbating the problem.

With all of that water underneath the roadways, compromising that subgrade with the traffic on the roadways, inevitably youre going to have a lot of potholes, due to the wet year that weve had, Corey Farkas, Public Works Operations and Maintenance Division Manager for the City of Colorado Springs, said. Over the last eight years, weve had some years that are really dry. Weve had years that we havent plowed snow until January in that particular year.

The ever-changing weather, along with the aging infrastructure, causes this inconvenience to appear throughout the city. The city shared that 9,298 potholes were repaired last month, with typically 330 potholes filled a day.

Ive gotten letters, Ive gotten emails, Ive gotten texts, and what I can tell you is that our team is working hard and diligently to fix these potholes, Mayor of Colorado Springs, Yemi Mobolade, said. Our team has received more than 4,000 pothole requests from residents this year and this March alone, public works have filled more than 10,000 potholes.

To help ensure the safety and comfort of drivers throughout the city, there is a request system in place to report potholes it can be filled out online or over the phone at 719-385-ROAD (7623).

The city has 13 pothole trucks working to help repair roadways, Farkas said the trucks are very expensive costing upwards of $300,000 for one truck.

There are two different methods that the city uses when faced with these pavement pits, it is either a pothole fill or a pothole repair. On Thursday, crews demonstrated the repair method out front of Martinez Elementary School, which typically helps stick around the longest.

Theyre going to go ahead and take a jackhammer; theyll square out that hole, Farkas said. Theyll fix any compromised subgrade thats underneath, compact it. Theyll tack the sides with tack, and theyll put hot mix asphalt in that hole and compact, thats the repair method.

Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade joined city crews in demonstrating the pothole repair process.

While the days efforts contribute to maintaining smooth roads, city officials stressed the necessity of renewing the 2C program, emphasizing it serves as an investment in the citys infrastructure.

Number one, the 2C road improvement program will help decrease the number of potholes and make our road smoother and safer, Mayor Mobolade said. Number two, the 2C road improvement program will help ensure that our roads and sidewalks are usable for people of all abilities, and number three, the 2C road improvement program will help save taxpayers that hard-earned money.

The 2C program, launched in 2016, directs voter-approved sales tax revenue toward improving not only roads but also sidewalks, curbs, and gutters. When John Suthers was mayor, he acknowledged the pressing need for city repairs, advocating strongly for the establishment of 2C.

At that point in time, two-thirds of our roads in Colorado Springs were in poor condition, Suthers said. When I say poor condition, I dont mean, gee, they look bad, I mean, Corey and his folks go over it with machinery and objectively assess it as being in poor condition.

To shed light on how the infrastructure got so bad, Suthers provided a historical perspective directly referencing previous policies.

In the early 1990s, the city eliminated a one-half cent infrastructure tax that had been enacted to keep up with the pace of the growth of the community and our infrastructure demands, said Suthers.

A crew member assisted in directing traffic as the pothole repair was underway, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

Last month, the City of Colorado Springs published an updated website highlighting all the work that has been done over the past few years.

Colorado Springs launches website showing impact of 2C

Combining forces of old and new mayors, the two are determined to ensure the 2C program is renewed. Mayor Mobolade said later this year he will ask the City Council to place the 2C program on the November ballot for voters to decide its fate.

Without raising taxes, we will ask our Colorado Springs residents this November to vote yes to renew 2C, Mobolade said. To continue the work to cure our roads, all our roads, including your neighborhood streets.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
Powerball player misses jackpot prize  but still wins big in SC. Cant stop smiling

A lottery player just missed a nearly 10-figure jackpot  but still has a big reason to be thrilled.

The South Carolina man cant stop smiling after he won $100,000 in a recent Powerball drawing, lottery officials said.

Im pleased with what I got, the winner told the S.C. Education Lottery in an April 11 news release. And Im still playing.

The man, who regularly plays Powerball, won after stopping at a Publix grocery store in Beaufort, a roughly 35-mile drive north from the popular vacation spot of Hilton Head Island. At the supermarkets location on Robert Smalls Parkway, he randomly chose the numbers for his ticket.

The Powerball ticket he bought matched five of six numbers picked in the March 27 drawing. And since the man spent an extra dollar on the Power Play option, his $50,000 prize doubled to $100,000, according to The Island Packet and drawing results.

The man, who was all smiles after his win, just missed a larger jackpot prize. He was one number from hitting the jackpot, which stood at an estimated $873 million the night of the drawing.

The winner kept $69,000 after taxes, lottery spokesperson Holli Armstrong told McClatchy News in an email. Officials didnt identify the lucky lottery player in their news release.

What to know about Powerball

To score a jackpot in the Powerball, a player must match all five white balls and the red Powerball.

The odds of scoring the jackpot prize are 1 in 292,201,338.

Tickets can be bought on the day of the drawing, but sales times and price vary by state.

Drawings are broadcast Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:59 p.m. ET and can be streamed online.

Powerball is played in 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.

If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.

Husband nonchalantly tells wife he won Powerball prize. Her reaction was different

Powerball player just misses jackpot  but still wins big prize. Hes yet to spend it
PRICEVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  A tanker truck crashed into a ditch on Highway 67 near Priceville, according to police.

Priceville police say the wreck happened on Highway 67 between Priceville and Somerville at Oak Hill Private Drive near mile marker 30 on Thursday, and though it involves a tanker truck, it poses no threat to residents nearby.

Former Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely granted parole

Officials said in a post on social media that crews will be working for several hours to clear the scene.

The department said at 6:39 p.m. that there would be an hour-long release of liquid nitrogen from the tanker before it could be removed. Authorities said the Morgan County EMA was on the scene to monitor the situation.

The Priceville Police Department is asking people to avoid the area while crews work.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)President Biden will be in Lackawanna County Tuesday to deliver a major address.

President Bidens team says he will be in Scranton coming off of Tax Day to drive home a simple question: Do you think the tax code should work for rich people or for the middle class?

Your Local Election Headquarters

President Bidens visit to his hometown will mark one week until the upcoming Primary Election in Pennsylvania.

Former President Donald Trump will also be campaigning in Schnecksville, Lehigh County, on April 13.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
President Biden stopping in Pittsburgh next week

President Joe Biden is coming to Pittsburgh.

The president will travel to Scranton, his hometown, from Tuesday, April 16 to Wednesday, April 17, when he will deliver an address.

On Wednesday, he will travel to the Pittsburgh area before returning to the White House.

President Biden will then travel to Philadelphia on Thursday.

More details will be released at a later date, according to the White House.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

TRENDING NOW:

Etna issues evacuation notice due to severe flooding LIVE UPDATES: FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS continue overnight after record rainfall PHOTOS: Flash flooding conditions across western Pennsylvania as storms move through VIDEO: 6 students graduate from Pitts dentistry apprenticeship program DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A federal judge in Delaware on Friday declined to dismiss gun charges against Hunter Biden, one of the two criminal cases against Joe Biden's son as the Democratic U.S. president ramps up his campaign for re-election.

U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika in Wilmington ruled against Hunter Biden's request to dismiss two counts of lying about his use of illegal narcotics when he purchased a Colt Cobra handgun in 2018 and a third count of illegally possessing that weapon.

The ruling clears the way for a trial on the gun charges, tentatively scheduled to start on June 3 in Wilmington. Hunter Biden has pleaded not guilty.

Special Counsel David Weiss brought the gun charges in September, when Hunter Biden became the first child of a sitting president to be indicted. He had faces more than 20 years in prison if convicted on the gun charges.

Republican candidate Donald Trump, seeking to regain the presidency in the Nov. 5 U.S. election, faces four criminal indictments of his own.

Hunter Biden's attorneys had argued the gun charges should be dismissed for a variety of reasons including that the law under which Hunter Biden was charged was likely unconstitutional after the U.S. Supreme Court expanded gun rights in a 2022 ruling that set a tough new test to determine the legality of firearms restrictions.

Biden's legal team also had argued that Weiss was not appropriately appointed, that Hunter Biden was being selectively prosecuted and that he had a binding agreement that shielded him from prosecution.

Hunter Biden also has pleaded not guilty to federal tax crimes in a separate case brought by Weiss in California, facing up to 17 years in prison if convicted. That trial is scheduled to start on June 20.

The special counsel accused Hunter Biden of failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes between 2016 and 2019 while spending millions of dollars on drugs, escorts, exotic cars and other high-ticket items. U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi in Los Angeles on April 1 rejected Hunter Biden's motions to dismiss the tax indictment.

(Reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Delaware; Editing by Will Dunham)
Pret A Manger customers say they have abandoned their subscriptions as the offer cannot be used in service stations or abroad and is no longer worth it.

Others have complained about being unable to get the drinks they want, such as iced coffees and frappes, with some stores implementing a hot drinks only policy.

Club Pret, which was introduced by the coffee and sandwich chain during the pandemic to get customers back in stores, allows subscribers to order up to five barista-made drinks a day for a monthly fee of 30.

It was credited by Pret for its return to profit last year, but some customers are now saying the deal is no longer worthwhile.

I got rid of it about a month ago. I just think theyve been making it an increasingly bad deal over time, one 26-year-old customer told the Telegraph.

Another, a London-based student, said she had cancelled her subscription because the coffee was bad and too expensive.

She added that she had been struggling to get the iced drinks she wanted when she went into outlets unless she went very early in the morning.

They kept saying they had no ice and I got sick of it because all I wanted were the iced coffees and smoothies over summer. Neither were available unless you were there at like 10am, she said.

Price increases but no drinks available that I want? No thanks! she added.

It should be universally accepted

The company has increased the price of its subscription several times since it first launched.

It cost 20 a month when it began in 2020, with the first month free. The price rose to 25 in February 2022, and then to 30 last April.

The subscription service is also unable to be used at service stations in the UK, which has also disgruntled customers.

Given loyal customers pay for a Pret subscription, it should be universally accepted, one customer, who was unable to use his subscription at Stafford service station, wrote on Twitter.

One customer complained that it was not possible to use the subscription abroad, as she found out when she went into a Pret near the Gare du Nord station in Paris.

Another, from Northern Ireland, said it was really disappointing to have taken out a subscription only to realise he was unable to use it in Belfast.

The Club Pret subscription is also available for French customers, for 25 a month. Pret opened its first store in the country in 2012, and now has 49, including in Paris.

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Pret's cynical subscription deal was always too good to be true

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The company recently launched a crackdown on people sharing their Club Pret subscriptions.

Subscribers must now use the Pret app to claim the free drinks rather than accessing their QR code in their Apple Wallet or on a smartwatch, under new rules that came into effect on March 18.

It is understood that some customers were exploiting loopholes to share the subscription, either by sending friends a screenshot of a QR code or by logging in to various devices.

Some customers have reported technical issues with their app since the changes were made, with Pret confirming it had given refunds to those who have genuinely struggled to log in.

Previously, a spokesman said: A few customers may have experienced technical issues in accessing their new codes while logging into the Pret App.

Anyone with problems accessing their new code can contact our customer support team who will be happy to help.

The spokesman later added: Since we made this change in March, our team have either given refunds or applied the Club Pret discount as normal to any customers who have genuinely struggled to log in.

Pret has been contacted for comment regarding exempt stores and iced drinks.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Carol Peters and her neighbors in the Fort Worth neighborhood of West Meadowbrook do a good enough job of taking care of each other, in her opinion.

We keep tabs on each other, as most neighbors do, said Peters, president of the West Meadowbrook Neighborhood Association.

While most of the homes in her neighborhood are watched over by doorbell and other personal security cameras, Peters opposes recent marketing attempts to install license plate reading cameras over West Meadowbrook streets.

In recent weeks, she has received multiple emails from a sales representative of Flock Safety, the company contracted by the Fort Worth Police Department to run its license plate reading cameras and Community Camera Program. Critics have called out Flock Safety for its refusal to allow its technology to be subjected to independent third party testing.

Burglaries, vehicle, and property theft are all on the rise in Texas and the perpetrators carrying out these crimes are not deterred by typical security measures like CCTV and intruder alarms, the email read.

While that statement appears to ring true regarding vehicle thefts, according to the police departments latest quarterly crime reports, crimes like burglary and stolen property decreased in 2023.

Peters accused Flock Safety of preying on peoples fears about crime to sell its invasive surveillance product.

We all have those concerns, and we all worry about whats happening in our neighborhood, but the best defense is to know each other, and to watch whats going on, she said. And if you see something, say something. To me, thats the best defense.

Peters is not the only Fort Worth resident opposed to Flock Safetys license plate readers in her neighborhood.

Daniel Haase, a resident of adjacent Central Meadowbrook, said he understands the use of the technology on busier thoroughfares like East Lancaster, but does not think they should be posted on residential streets.

I just dont think theyre appropriate for neighborhoods, he said. Its a little intrusive.

Just across Interstate 30 from the Meadowbrook neighborhoods, Linda Fulmer of White Lake Hills said her neighborhood has already gone through one failed experiment with cameras installed at its entrances over 10 years ago.

The cameras were not Flock Safety cameras. Residents set them up on their own and operated them out of homes near the entrances to White Lake Hills.

Expecting them to deter or help solve crimes turned out to be a very naive assumption, Fulmer said.

What was subsequently learned was, number one, cars driving in and out of a neighborhood on a public street are not an indication that they participated in any crime. It doesnt link the car to the crime scene, so its basically useless, she said. Its also a bit of an invasion of privacy, because obviously, the people that live here come and go through those entrances.

The cameras gave residents a false sense of security, Fulmer said, leading some to believe that they could leave their cars unlocked and not have any problems.

After a string of cars and homes being ransacked, it was discovered that the culprits were teenagers from the neighborhood apparently taking advantage of people being off their guard.

Cameras at the entrance would not have captured them, because after they committed their little mischief, they went home, she said.

Fulmer was also recently contacted by a Flock Safety sales representative.

I sent her a response saying, you know, dont bother us, this is stupid, she said.

Marketing a false sense of insecurity

Surveillance and home security companies often try to market their products using a false sense of insecurity, according to Ken Shetter, president of local crime prevention nonprofit One Safe Place.

I think it is more common that there is a more heightened sense of crime or violence than what actually occurs, said Shetter, who also served as the mayor of Burleson from 2004 to 2020.

Still, peoples perception of safety can carry just as much weight as the realities of that safety.

Its not only important that people are safe, but its important that they feel safe, because the fear of violence really is just about as debilitating as violence itself, he said.

While he acknowledges the benefits of license plate readers in the hands of public entities such as law enforcement agencies, he called marketing like Flock Safetys problematic.

That does raise some privacy concerns, it also raises concerns about how do you have any kind of guarantee that any particular person or group is qualified to employ or utilize the resource? he said. Its important to deal in facts, and if youre going to communicate some kind of danger or risk, it needs to be based on exactly whats happening and not on some generalized fear of crime and violence, because thats not really helpful.

Flock Safety spokesperson Holly Beilin said in an email exchange that the kind of cameras marketed to Peters and others cited in this story had the option to be connected to the police department. She did not address residents concerns about the companys sales tactics.

Neighborhoods who purchase Flock cameras are able to choose whether they want to share camera access directly with their local PD, or not. It is entirely up to them, she said.

The other option is more like a traditional security camera administered by residents and able to provide information to the police in case of incidents, she said. Residents would also have the option to put their license plates on a Safe List in order to not be read by the cameras.

Some Fort Worth neighborhoods welcome license plate readers

Not all Fort Worth neighborhoods oppose license plate readers. Leaders in the Las Vegas neighborhood attribute reductions in crime rates there to the presence of Flock Safety cameras over their streets.

We absolutely support the technology, said Paige Charbonnet, executive director of the Las Vegas Trail Revitalization Project, in an email exchange.

Crimes against persons in the area are down 13% and crimes against property are down 12% since 2020, according to Fort Worth city council member Michael Crain, whose district includes the Las Vegas Trail area.

Other crimes, such as drug offenses, gambling and prostitution, are up about 10%, he said, but he attributed the rise to increased enforcement thanks to the cameras.

People change their behavior once they know theyre being watched, and the license plate technology is part of that, obviously, he said.

Fort Worth drivers, however, can apparently assume theyre being watched by license plate readers anywhere in the city, as the police department said it does not divulge the locations of the more than 200 cameras that have been installed.

We do not publicly release the locations of our cameras, as that would obviously arm criminals with the knowledge they need to avoid apprehension, said Sgt. Jason Spencer in an email exchange.

But this expansion of constant surveillance is untenable for residents like Peters, of West Meadowbrook.

Were becoming a society where everyone surveils everyone else, and its just kind of getting to the point where you need to demand some privacy, she said. And this randomly surveilling license plates that travel through your neighborhood seems a little too much.
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said officers were investigating a fatal shooting Thursday evening.

The shooting happened in the 600 block of Audrey Lane around 5:30 p.m. There, officers found a man who had been shot. He died there.

Officers honored for saving Montgomery Co. Police sergeant after crash

Police were still working on trying to find a suspect and motive for the shooting.

Anyone with information was asked to call 1-866-411-TIPS or submit a tip using the P3 Tips app.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
From the Dispatch Politics on The Dispatch

Happy Friday! Just as certain institutions (such as the University of Florida) are eliminating their diversity, equity, and inclusion positions, the Biden campaign is now hiring a DEI director. Any takers?

Up to Speed

The Democratic National Committee paid President Joe Bidens legal bills while he was under investigation by special counsel Robert Hur over whether the president mishandled classified documents, Axios reported Friday. While the Biden campaign has attacked former President Donald Trump for using campaign funds to pay his compounding legal bills, the committee paid $1.5 millionmostly between July 2023 and February 2024to attorneys and firms representing Biden during Hurs probe. While Trump has spent funds from his Save America political action committee on legal fees, it is unlikely that his campaign is using money from the Republican National Committee for that purpose.

Two years after the RNC withdrew from the Commission on Presidential Debates over bias, the Trump campaign is asking the bipartisan group, which has organized general election presidential debates since the 1988 election, to make some changes to its schedule. Trump has requested moving up the first debates between himself and Biden and even adding more to the calendar. Trump campaign senior advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita wrote in a letter to the commission that by the time the first debate takes place as scheduled, on September 16, about 1 million people will likely have cast a ballot early. Trump has repeatedly challenged Biden to debate him even though he skipped all of the debates in the Republican presidential primary.

Trump leads Biden 48 percent to 46 percent among North Carolina registered voters in a head-to-head matchup in a Wednesday Quinnipiac University poll. Most respondents said they believe Trump would do a better job handling the economy, immigration, and international conflicts, while a majority said they believe Biden would better preserve democracy in America. Down the ballot, Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein led Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson by 8 points in the states gubernatorial race, 52 percent to 44 percent.

Trump is set to host Speaker Mike Johnson at Mar-a-Lago for a joint press conference, where the two will promote a bill to stop non-citizens from voting, according to a Thursday report from USA Today. Reports had circulated Wednesday that Johnson was headed to the former presidents estate to discuss election integrity, and his visit comes as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia has begun making the case for her fellow Republicans to expel Johnson from the speakership.

Johnson raised more than $20 million in the first quarter of 2024 for Republican House candidates across the country, his office announced in an email Thursday. The haul brings the total he has raised as speaker to $30 million since he took over the position in October. In addition to the money he has brought in, the super PAC he endorses, the Congressional Leadership Fund, saw its first-quarter fundraising total $25 million. Meanwhile, the National Republican Congressional Committee said it raised more than $33 million in the first quarter, about $16 million of which came in March. That money will help Johnson and Republicans contend with Democratswho have thus far outraised the GOP significantlyas the speaker fights to maintain his razor-thin majority.

The Republican National Committee sent out robocalls last week on behalf of co-chair Lara Trump claiming that massive fraud took place in the 2020 election, CNN reported Wednesday. The call listed a lack of voter ID requirements, mass mail-in voting, and deceased people on voter rolls as examples. If Democrats have their way, your vote could be canceled out by someone who isnt even an American citizen, the call said. Weeks ago, Lara Trump told NBC News the committee was past the 2020 election. On Sunday RNC Chairman Michael Whatley told Dispatch contributing editor and NewsNation anchor Chris Stirewalt that the committee would be pushing mail-in voting in November.

In Michigan, Mike Rogers Pitches Recalibrated Abortion Position

Senate candidate and former Rep. Mike Rogers speaks during a panel discussion on September 14, 2016, in Washington, D.C. (ZACH GIBSON/AFP via Getty Images)

LANSING, MichiganWhat a difference a year makes.

Roughly 12 months ago, some of the most prominent Republicans running for higher office were announcing support for federal legislation that would limit abortion rights to the first 15 or 20 weeks of pregnancy. Where some Republicans wielded political power in the states, legislation was approved banning access to the procedure after the first six weeksusually but not always with exceptions for rape, incest, and the health or life of the mother.

Today, with the 2024 elections less than seven months away, some Republicans running in some of the biggest races of the cycle are beginning to chart a different course. Take Mike Rogers, the frontrunner for the GOP nomination for Senate in Michigan. The former congressman told The Dispatch during an interview here this week that, although he was a pro-life legislator, he supports the right of states to control their own fate on the contentious issue.

For a Michigan lawmaker, that means opposing any legislation in the Senate that would undermine abortion rights as codified in the state constitution through a referendumProposal 3approved by a majority of voters in the 2022 midterm elections. So, those 15-week bans that are popular with some Republicans on Capitol Hill you might have heard of, like Sen. Lindsay Graham of South Carolina? Rogers didnt mince words: He would vote against such legislation if brought to the Senate floor for a vote.

I could not support it, Rogers said. People say, This is a change in his position. No, not really. The people decided, and to me thats the most important vote that they can make, is a ballot vote, on something thats that personal, for women, they spoke, and we gotta hear em. Theres other ways we can help that doesnt make it illegal.

As a congressman, Rogers opposed abortion rights. His position as a 2024 Senate candidate is different.

The candidates comments to The Dispatch mirror comments he made in 2023 in support of states rights and legal access to abortion in Michigan and come as Donald Trump, the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, appeared this week to stake out a similar position to that of Rogers. The 60-year-old Republican seems confident his approach inoculates him from political fallout on the issue in the race for an open Senate seat that will likely pit him against Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin, should each prevail in their August 6 primaries.

Republicans have not won a Senate race in Michigan since 1994. But the available polling suggests a close race between Rogers and Slotkin, 47, elected to the House in 2018.

To push their streak of winning Michigan Senate races past the 30-year mark, Democrats are relying heavily on abortion. And why not? Its an issue that has worked for the party time and again since the June 2022 Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization that overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling that made access to the procedure legal across the country, in all stages of pregnancy.

Pointing to Rogers past support in Congresspre-Dobbsfor federal legislation that sought to supersede Roe and block access to abortion nationally, Democrats insist the Republican remains politically vulnerable on this issue, no matter his support for abortion rights as enshrined in the Michigan Constitution. At every step of the way, he has pushed for the most draconian restrictions on womens reproductive freedomfull stop, Slotkin campaign spokesperson Austin Cook said in an emailed statement.

Sprinting away from his decades-long record on this issue isnt just dishonest, its downright cowardly. As Elissa often says, look at what a politician does, not what they say, Cook added.

Under the law here, the state retains the option to regulate the provision of abortion care after fetal viability, in some cases approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy, although for now there are no specific limits on gestational age. That leaves open the possibility that some future bill in Congress to limit abortion accessfor instance, late in pregnancycould be presented as not running afoul of the Michigan Constitution. Theoretically (Democrats will say its more than theoretical,) such legislation might hold some appeal for Rogers, who told us more than once that he is a pro-life guy.

However, Rogers emphasized that his commitment to the cause is being channeled elsewhere. Theres other things we need to do if we believe in pro-life, like actually give the woman a choice to have the babyprenatal care, pregnancy crisis centers; give them the opportunity to have something other than an abortion, he said.

Can Washington State Republicans Retake a Must-Win House Seat?

One of the closest House races of 2022 flipped a reliably Republican seat in southwest Washington state to Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez. The controversial Republican who lost, Joe Kent, is seeking a rematch against Gluesenkamp Perez. But an alternative Republican has emerged to argue Kent wont be able to win this time, either. The seat, which the Cook Political Report rates a Republican-leaning toss-up, is a must-win for the GOP if it is to grow its minuscule majority in the House of Representatives.

Leslie Lewallen is a former prosecutor who sits on the city council for Camas, a Washington suburb just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon. She has positioned herself as a more electable alternative focused on public safety and reining in government spending, criticizing Gluesenkamp Perez, who is relatively moderate but is still a Democrat. Lewallen is very much in the mold of the Republican who held this seat for 12 years, Jaime Herrera Beutler.

So far, however, Lewallen appears reluctant to directly challenge Kents support for the Stop the Steal movement and associations with radical far-right figuresfactors that contributed to his narrow defeat in the 2022 general election. In a phone interview with The Dispatch this week, she vaguely hinted at these reasons for Kents defeat.

He focused on the past, Lewallen said. I think he focused on the other Washington. I think that theres issues here locally that he did not focus on: transportation issues, our economy, local schools, parental rights. I think that there was just a whole lot of areas that Joe Kent just glossed over.

In truth, Kent built his 2022 campaign on a Trumpian model of denying Joe Biden victory in the 2020 election and amplifying conspiracy theories about COVID vaccines. During his bid, he found himself promising to prosecute Dr. Anthony Fauci for murder, calling the January 6 riot at the Capitol an intelligence operation, and dubbing those who were arrested for breaching the Capitol political prisoners.

In Washington, all candidates run on the same ballot in a nonpartisan blanket primary, with the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, advancing to compete in the general election. During the 2022 primary, Kent went directly after the six-term incumbent Herrera Beutler, who was one of the 10 House Republicans to vote to impeach Donald Trump for his involvement in the events that led to January 6.

Not surprisingly, Trump endorsed Kent, helping him eke out a second-place finish in the districts blanket primary over Herrera Beutler. Gluesenkamp Perez came in first, but the combined votes of Kent, Herrera Beutler, and other Republican candidates more than doubled the Democrats share. The district, which had voted for Trump in 2016 and 2020, seemed bound to elect Kent in the general election.

But what had boosted Kent with Republican voters in the primary became a liability in the general against Gluesenkamp Perez. In addition to Kents controversial statements, he had to contend with reports of his ties to far-right organizations and figuresincluding employing a member of the Proud Boys and giving an interview to a Nazi sympathizer. Kents defeat was emblematic of the failure of Republican House candidates across the country who were closely tied with Trump and Stop the Steal.

In her interview with The Dispatch, Lewallen said Kents decision to challenge Herrera Beutler did not do anything good for our party and focused most of her attacks on the fact that Kent lost the general election, without getting specific about why he did so. She brought up a Gluesenkamp Perez ad from 2022 that featured lifelong Republicans saying they were not voting for Kent due to his extreme statements. But she declined to say whether she herself thought Kent was too extreme.

Clearly Joe lost, she replied. It was his race to lose. He had Trumps endorsement. He had Speaker McCarthy come out and fundraise for him. He had the Washington state Republican Party endorsement. He underperformed every other Republican on the ballot. It was his race to lose, and he lost and hes going to lose again by an even wider margin.

Elsewhere, Lewallen has attacked Kent from the right. She said in a September X post that her GOP opponent has more in common with Gluesenkamp Perez than voters in the district, given that they both want big government involvement, theyre both from Portland and they both voted for Bernie Sanders. (Both Kent and Gluesenkamp Perez have lived in Portland, a progressive bastion across the border in Oregon, and while Gluesenkamp Perez supported Sanders in 2016, Kent has said he boosted Sanders in the 2020 Democratic primary in Oregon because he considered the socialist senator to be a better opponent for Trump.)

Kents campaign did not respond to a request for an interview.

Theres been no public polling of the blanket primary, which will take place on August 6, and the candidates have yet to release their fundraising numbers for the first quarter of 2024. But Kent outraised Lewallen in the last quarter of 2023, taking in more than $411,000 compared to Lewallens $120,000, according to Federal Election Commission filings. Lewallen has earned endorsements from Tiffany Smiley, who ran as the Republican Senate challenger in 2022 against Sen. Patty Murray, as well as a former secretary of state and attorney general. But the state party endorsed Kent at its summer meeting in August and later set up a joint fundraising committee for him. Members of the party were undeterred by his loss in 2022, Washington GOP Chairman Jim Walsh told the Dispatch.

He ran a credible race two years ago, lost narrowly, and there was a strong feeling among the delegates from the 3rd Congressional District that he had the best chance to win the seat, Walsh said. He added that Kents loss last cycle was an understandable concern but that the actual members of the state party felt differently as to whether he could defeat Gluesenkamp Perez in November.

One Republican Party operative in Washington said the real question of the race was whether Kent could dig himself out of the hole he dug in 2022 because he seems thus far to be more interested in being kind of a Twitter pundit than being an effective candidate. Recently, Kent appeared on the far-right One America News Network and implied that the CIA and Ukraine may have had a hand in a recent terror attack in Russia. He later doubled down on his comments on X.

If he leans into the weird takes, the operative said, then that just furthers that branding that he is too extreme.

Notable and Quotable

Expect him to be indicted any day nowprobably for environmental fraud. He is Crooked Joe Bidens political opponent, not mine. Biden cant speak, Biden cant debate, Biden cant put two sentences together, so I guess hes probably going to indict RFK Jr. Former President Donald Trump, commenting on the influence on the 2024 election of independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in a video posted to Truth Social Thursday.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
When former President Donald Trump couldn't find anyone to issue him a $464 million bond to appeal his civil fraud conviction, a New York appeals court granted him a lifeline, telling the Republican candidate to come back with a bond of just $175 million. A few days later, he did just.

Ever since, however, questions have been raised about the company that issued the bond  led by a billionaire Trump supporter who specializes in subprime auto loans  and whether New York Attorney General Letitia James will even be able to collect what's owed should Trump's conviction be upheld. For one, the company's balance sheet suggests it might not have enough surplus cash to make good on its promise.

On Friday, The Daily Beast reported on another reason for concern: that while the bond's issuer, Knight Specialty Insurance Company, is technically based in the United States, its parent company calls the Cayman Islands home. Former financial regulators say that's concerning.

The financial details are complicated, but the gist is this: the bond's issuer is itself insured by the similarly named but island-based parent company -- and since that island is a notorious tax shelter for the rich and powerful, that parent does not have to divulge key financial data, like whether it has enough cash on hand to cover a sudden $175 million bill.

The Caymans are widely recognized as a secrecy jurisdiction," Tom Grober, a forensic account, told The Daily Beast. "If you called the regulator in the Caymans and asked, Can you tell me if Knight reinsurance has enough to cover these claims? Their laws require total confidentiality. Why?"

Dave Jones, a former California insurance commissioner, told the outlet that the $175 million bond was already "problematic" in the extreme. It's connection to a foreign jurisdiction just makes it worse.

What the New York AG must be thinking is, What recourse do I have in Cayman Island courts? If I get a judgment against the bond, even if I sue the reinsurer, can I enforce that judgment in a Cayman Island court? Maybe, maybe not," Jones said. "It raises a whole other level of complexity."

Jones has already raised some questions about the bond, suggesting she's far from convinced the issuer will be able to come up with the money, despite assurances from the owner that he collected a cash collateral. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for April 22.
Prominent surgeon says he was denied entry to Germany for a pro-Palestinian conference

FILE - Doctor Ghassan Abu Sitta, a Palestinian-British plastic surgeon specializing in conflict medicine, speaks during an interview with The Associated Press at the Institute for Palestine Studies in Beirut, Lebanon, Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. A prominent British-Palestinian surgeon who volunteered in Gaza hospitals during the first weeks of the Israel-Hamas war said he was denied entry to Germany Friday to take part in a pro-Palestinian conference  an event that police later ended early. Dr. Ghassan Abu Sitta said he arrived at Berlin airport on Friday morning before being stopped at passport control, where he was held for several hours and then told he had to return to the U.K. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File)

BERLIN (AP)  A prominent British-Palestinian surgeon who volunteered in Gaza hospitals during the first weeks of the Israel-Hamas war said he was denied entry to Germany Friday to take part in a pro-Palestinian conference  an event that police later ended early.

Dr. Ghassan Abu Sitta said he arrived at Berlin airport on Friday morning before being stopped at passport control, where he was held for several hours and then told he had to return to the U.K.

Airport police said he was refused entry due to the safety of the people at the conference and public order, Abu Sitta told The Associated Press by phone. There was no immediate comment from German federal police.

Abu Sitta said his ban was to last until Sunday, covering the planned duration of the Berlin conference he was to attend, entitled the Palestine Congress. The gathering was to discuss a range of topics, including German arms shipments to Israel and solidarity with what organizers called the Palestinian struggle.

Berlin police said later Friday they pulled the plug on the event, attended by up to 250 people, on its first day after a livestream was shown of a person who is banned from political activity in Germany. They wouldn't identify the person, but said they decided after a legal assessment to end the congress and asked those attending to leave.

Organizers wrote on social network X that the conference was banned by the police without reason.

Germany remains one of Israels staunchest defenders, even at a time of growing international outrage over the soaring Palestinian death toll in Gaza, which has surpassed 33,000.

German officials have stressed Israel's right and duty to defend itself since the start of the war  though their tone has gradually shifted, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock increasingly decrying the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling on Israel to allow more aid to reach the territory.

Shortly after Hamas Oct. 7. attack on Israel, the German government implemented a formal ban on activity by or in support of Hamas.

Since the war erupted, Germany has clamped down on many pro-Palestinian activities and demonstrations, with officials citing fears of possible antisemitic or anti-Israel incitement.

The hard line has broad political support at home, but has drawn criticism.

Germanys deportation of Dr. Abu Sitta is a naked act of authoritarian censorship, more in line with the policies of dictatorships like Saudi Arabia and China than a rights-respecting democracy, Sarah Leah Whitson, the executive director of Washington-based human rights watchdog Democracy for the Arab World Now, or DAWN, said in a statement.

Abu Sitta, who recently volunteered with Doctors Without Borders in Gaza, has worked during multiple conflicts in the Palestinian territories, beginning in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian uprising. He has also worked in other conflict zones, including in Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

Friday's congress was viewed with great wariness by German officials before it started and was heavily policed.

Earlier on Friday, German Interior Ministry spokesperson Maximilian Kall told reporters in Berlin that federal security authorities had been in touch with their local counterparts in the capital about questions of, for instance, entry bans, he said. He added that he couldnt give details.

___

Jeffery reported from Jerusalem.
FIRST ON FOX: A proposed bill put before Congress on Wednesday would make squatting by illegal immigrants a deportable offense and would permanently bar offenders from admission into the United States.

The legislation, titled the Safeguarding Homes from Illegal Entry, Living, and Dwelling Act or the "SHIELD Act," was introduced by Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Penn., amid a rash of incidents in which illegal immigrants have brazenly taken over homes, frustrating homeowners and calling attention to the strengthening of property rights laws.

Most notably, several Venezuelan migrants in New York City were found last month with drugs and guns in one Bronx dwelling and a Venezuelan TikTok user urged his fellow migrants to unlawfully take over homes across the U.S.

BLUE STATE SQUATTERS PUT ON NOTICE WITH 'AGGRESSIVE' LAW AND ORDER BILL: 'PEOPLE ARE GETTING KILLED'

A group of eight illegal migrants who were found squatting in a Bronx apartment are now facing guns and weapons charges. All had been previously caught at the southern border and released, authorities said.

"The dramatic increase in the number of illegal immigrants squatting in American homes is yet another example of how the disastrous situation at our southern border is impacting communities across the country," Meuser said in a statement announcing the bill. "This legislation will serve as a deterrent to illegal aliens contemplating violating the homes and properties of American citizens."

Migrants will "think twice" before attempting to trespass or illegally take over someone's property, he added.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Under the terms of the bill, any illegal immigrant convicted or admits to squatting inside a home is eligible for deportation and would be permanently barred from entering the U.S.

SQUATTER'S PARADISE? AMERICA'S BIGGEST CITY 'PLAYING WITH FIRE' OVER THIS NEW RULE, ATTORNEY SAYS

Venezuelan TikToker Leonel Moreno urged illegal immigrants to take over abandoned homes and invoke squatters' rights.

Legal loopholes have frustrated property owners as more cases of squatters have received media attention in recent weeks.

In New York City, eight migrants were recently busted at a Bronx home last month on gun and drug charges after police received a call about a gun at the home. One of the migrants, 24-year-old Hector Desousa-Villata, had previous charges for attempted murder after allegedly shooting a fellow migrant in the leg in August during an argument over a woman.

All eight migrants initially entered the U.S. illegally through the southern border.

New York state Sen. John Liu introduced a bill this week that would define the term "squatter" and would make it clear that squatters do not get any rights or protections after 30 days.

"Its gotten a huge amount of visibility and stirred quite a bit of outrage because of some of these egregious and blatant acts of squatting, which is why its necessary to make it crystal clear in the law that a squatter is not a tenant and does have the rights that are afforded to tenants in the state of New York," Liu told Fox News Digital.





Original article source: Proposed bill in Congress to combat illegal immigrants squatting would make practice a deportable offense
The highest paying openings in South Carolina state government are usually those requiring advanced degrees such as psychiatrists and other medical doctors and lawyers.

But what about jobs that dont require a masters or a PhD?

This week, the highest paying job listed on the states job opportunity website not requiring an advanced degree is director of information security for the Department of Social Security in Richland County.

The salary range is $81,388.00 to $150,585.00 annually. This is the agencys chief security officer and requires a bachelors degree in a computer science field.

The job was posted March 29 and closes Friday.

The Department of Education is looking for two program managers in the Office of Student Support at a salary between $66,892 and $123,763 a year.

This job requires a bachelors degree and is designed to help build the character and resilience of students and address external barriers to learning, the job posting says.

The Department of Education is also looking for a chief financial officer at a salary between $66,892 and $123,763 annually in Richland County.

This is a supervisory role in the department and requires a bachelors degree in accounting and five years experience.

DSS needs a security operations manager to develop and implement security policies, procedures, and systems to protect information on the departments computer system about assets, personnel and clients. It requires an associates or bachelors degree in information technology.

A traffic engineer is needed at the Department of Transportation headquarters in Columbia. The salary range is $98,126 - $122,657 a year. The job requires a bachelors degree in engineering and seven years of engineering work experience.

It involves supervising the design of highway projects, reviews plans, monitors utility coordination and reviews highway project plans for quality control process.

Lander University in Greenwood is looking for an associate vice president of alumni engagement at a salary between $100,000 and $115,000 annually.

Besides a bachelors degree and five years experience, the university says it wants someone with curiosity, positive attitude, and energy to implement new strategies and meet ambitious goals.

Home of the Bearcats in Division II, Lander has about 4,300 students.

The Department of Transportation needs a maintenance program support manager in Richland County. The salary is $88,583 to $110,728 and requires a bachelors degree and five and a half years of experience. The job was posted April 2 and the application period closes on April 16.

Story continues

Transportation is also looking for a design automation policy and procedure engineer at a salary between $85,176 and $106,470 annually. The job is located in Richland County at the agency headquarters.

The person in this job manages and coordinates the operations of the CADD Support Office. CADD stands for Computer Aided Drafting and Design.

A bachelors degree In engineering and five years experience is required.

Transportation also needs a resident engineer in Greenville County. The salary is $85,176 to $106,470 annually.

The job involves overseeing the work of employees of a county maintenance unit on primary and secondary roadways and bridges. This is also the person who takes the complaints of residents about road problems.

A bachelors degree and five years of experience are required.

On Wednesday, South Carolina had 1,583 job openings.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A protester accused of physically resisting police officers and pulling hard enough on the doors of Bakersfield City Hall South that she shattered glass entered not guilty pleas on Thursday.

Lorena Salinas pleaded not guilty to felony counts of resisting arrest and vandalism, and misdemeanor counts of remaining at the scene of a riot and resisting arrest.

Salinas was one of four pro-Palestinian protesters arrested after refusing to leave a March 27 city council meeting.

Supervising Deputy District Attorney Gina Pearl said Salinas caused more than $2,000 in damage.

Salinas is out of custody and is due back in court April 22.

Co-defendant Gabriela Lynn Mota is accused of spitting on a police officer. Her arraignment is set for April 25.

Two other protesters arrested at the meeting  Lance Mack and Ashley Vega  face two misdemeanor counts each of resisting arrest and remaining at the scene of a riot.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Riddhi Patel wont be attending Bakersfield City Council meetings for a while.

The pro-Palestinian protester, charged with 18 felony counts after threatening council members, was ordered held on $1 million bail during her arraignment Friday and ordered to stay at least 500 yards away from city hall.

Patel, 28, wept during the hearing as a deputy public defender entered not guilty pleas on her behalf to eight counts of threatening a public official and 10 counts of making terroristic threats.

Man accused of killing girlfriend for working longer hours pleads no contest to murder

Court Commissioner Sally Ackerknecht, upon hearing from prosecutor Ken Russell, told Patel she also must stay away from the homes and businesses of those to whom her remarks during Wednesdays meeting were apparently directed, among them council members, the mayor, city attorney, city manager and city clerk.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Patel, railing against recent security measures she said were installed as retaliation against protesters, said Well see you at your house, well murder you. The threat was captured on video and has been widely distributed.

Several other protesters, who have called on the council to pass a resolution condemning Israels actions in the war against Hamas, have been arrested at past meetings after refusing to leave once chambers were ordered cleared. Two face felony counts, one for allegedly breaking a glass door at city hall, causing an estimated $2,000 in damage.

Patel is due back in court later this month.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
The Public Schools of Robeson County to install more bus cameras with $200K grant

LUMBERTON, N.C. (WBTW)  The Public Schools of Robeson County has been awarded a $200,000 school safety grant to install more bus cameras.

The grant was given by the Department of Public Instructions Center for Safer Schools, according to a news release by the district.

The district will first place cameras on the yellow buses at elementary schools who dont have a camera and the remaining cameras will be placed on high school and activity buses, the district said.

The cameras will be installed on the buses next week.

Bobby Locklear, Assistant Superintendent of Auxiliary Services at the Public Schools of Robeson County said he is grateful for the opportunity to equip more buses with cameras.

Our goal is to continue to enhance student safety through grant opportunities like the School Safety Grant, Locklear said.

The cameras can assist law enforcement officers with investigations of drivers who pass stopped school buses.

In addition, bus camera footage can be accessed if an incident occurs on a bus or if the bus is involved in a crash, Locklear said.

The camera system to be installed will allow buses to automatically upload stored video footage to the cloud as buses arrive at school, Locklear said.

Earlier this school year, the district used funding to place cameras on 12 buses that were determined to have the highest need and most outdated equipment, the release said.

In 2022, the district received safety funding in the amount of $1,048,000 to purchase radios for every bus and for placing uniform keyed entry systems at all PSRC facilities, according to the release.

The district was among 230 school districts and charter schools across the state to benefit from $35 million in 2023-2024 safety grants announced by North Carolina Department of Public Instructions Center for Safer Schools, the release said.

Grant funds awarded could be used to cover safety equipment, training and services for students in crisis, according to the Center for Safer Schools.

It is part of the Centers mandate and mission to give public-school units the tools they need to help keep their schools safer  that includes grant funding, said CFSS Executive Director Karen W. Fairley. We thank the General Assembly for its generous appropriation that enables us to support North Carolina public schools.

State Superintendent Catherine Truitt said the need for school safety funding is crucial in ensuring students well-being throughout their educational journey.

Nothing is more important than making our schools safer and more secure, and these grants will continue to play a vital role, Truitt said. This funding will help improve school security in many ways, including, updating technology and training to prevent future emergencies. I applaud state lawmakers for making this a priority and look forward to working with them to deliver more safety funding in the future.

* * *

Taylor Ford is a digital journalist for News13. She joined the News13 team in January 2023. Taylor is a Florence native and covers the Pee Dee out of News13s Florence Bureau. Read more of Taylors work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
Putin claims Russian attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure 'response' for strikes on Russian energy facilities

Editor's note: The article was updated with additional context on Russian attacks against Ukraine's energy grid in late 2022 and early 2023.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin claimed that the large-scale strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure are "a response" to the attacks on Russian energy facilities, Russian state-controlled news agency Interfax reported on April 11.

Moscow has recently intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure, destroying several thermal power plants across the country, including the Trypillia plant, the main electricity supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts.

In March, attacks reportedly damaged or completely destroyed 80% of the thermal generating capacity of DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company.

Over the past month, Russian forces reportedly launched over 400 missiles, 600 Shahed-type drones, and 3,000 guided aerial bombs.

Back in early October 2022, Russia launched a months-long series of missile and drone attacks against Ukraines energy infrastructure, leading to blackouts amid freezing temperatures and reportedly damaging half of the countrys energy system.

They were not preceded by any Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory.

Putin called the Russian strikes part of the so-called "demilitarization" process as they affect Ukraine's defense industrial complex, he claimed.

Read also: Russia launches large-scale attack across Ukraine, hitting energy infrastructure

"Unfortunately, we have seen a series of strikes on our power facilities recently and have had to respond," Putin said during a meeting with Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow.

Ukrainian forces have launched a series of drone strikes aimed at damaging Russia's oil industry. A total of 12 Russian oil refineries were reportedly successfully hit in multiple regions deep inside Russian territory as of March 17.

Reuters estimated that these attacks forced Russian refineries to shut in about 14% of their capacity in the first quarter.

The Financial Times reported in March that the U.S. warned Ukraine to stop attacking Russian oil refineries, allegedly out of concern that strikes could raise global oil prices. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on April 2 that Washington has "neither supported nor enabled strikes by Ukraine outside its territory."

President Volodymyr Zelensky said that targeting Russian oil and weapons facilities is a legitimate military strategy and that Ukraine has a right to use its own weapons for self-defense.

Read also: Ukrainian drones hit one Russian oil refinery after another

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Protestors marched against gun violence at City Hall in Los Angeles in 2022 following an elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, that killed 19 children and two teachers, and other mass shootings. New research shows that a quarter of teachers in the U.S. last year reported a gun-related lockdown in their schools. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI

April 12 (UPI) -- A quarter of teachers in the United States say their school went into a gun-related lockdown in the last year, and more than half worry about a shooting at their school, new data from the Pew Research Center show.

The study comes amid a record high in school shootings. There were 83 reported in 2023, a quarter of a century after a mass shooting at Columbine High School in Colorado thrust the issue to the forefront of the national psyche, and began a trend of similar incidents that have become almost commonplace.

Gun control issues will be an issue in the 2024 election campaigns.

According to the report, 23% of teachers said they experienced a lockdown in the 2022-23 school year over a gun or suspicion of a gun at their place of work, while 15% said it happened once during the year and 8% reported it happening more than once.

"A third of high school teachers reported going into a gun-related lockdown, 22% of middle school teachers and 16% of teachers in elementary school teachers," the report continued.

Teachers in urban schools were more likely to report gun-related lockdowns, it said, with 19% of suburban teachers and 20% of teachers in rural schools reported going into lockdown.

Nearly 40% of teachers say their schools have done a poor or fair job training them and providing the resources they need to respond to an active shooter. Fewer than a third say they have been given excellent or very good training, and 30% say their schools have done a good job preparing them.

Only 21% of teachers in urban areas say they are least likely to know how to respond in the event of an active shooter, compared to about a third in suburban and rural schools.

"Teachers who have police officers or armed security stationed in their school are more likely than those who don't to say their school has done an excellent or very good job preparing them for a potential active shooter (36% vs. 22%)," the report said.

Overall, 56% of teachers say they have police officers or armed security stationed at their school, with 64% of those at rural schools and 56% at suburban schools reporting this, compared with 48% in urban schools.

"Only 3% of teachers say teachers and administrators at their school are allowed to carry guns in school," according to the report. "This is slightly more common in school districts where a majority of voters cast ballots for Donald Trump in 2020 than in school districts where a majority of voters cast ballots for Joe Biden (5% vs. 1%)."

The survey also asked teachers how effective certain measures would be at preventing school shootings.

Nearly 70% of teachers said improving mental health screening and treatment for children and adults would be extremely or very effective at staving off gun-related incidents in schools, while nearly half say having police officers or armed security in schools would be highly effective. A third say the same about metal detectors.

"Just 13% say allowing teachers and school administrators to carry guns in schools would be extremely or very effective at preventing school shootings. Seven-in-10 teachers say this would be not too or not at all effective," the report said.

The report also shows teachers' opinions varied by political party.

It found that Republican and Republican-leaning teachers are more likely than Democratic and Democratic-leaning teachers to say it would be highly effective to have police officers or armed security in schools at 69% to 37%, installing metal detectors in schools at 43% to 27% and allowing teachers and school administrators to carry guns at 28% to 3%.

Majorities in both parties say improving mental health screening and treatment would be highly effective at preventing school shootings, with 73% of Democratic teachers saying this compared to 66% of Republican teachers.

Beyond teachers and school administrators as well as parents are also worried about gun violence and school shootings, and Pew asked them a similar set of questions in 2022.

"Roughly a third of parents with K-12 students (32%) said they were extremely or very worried about a shooting ever happening at their child's school. An additional 37% said they were somewhat worried," the report said.

Improving mental health screening and treatment was the strategy most parents at 63% said would be extremely or very effective at preventing school shootings, and allowing teachers and school administrators to carry guns in schools was seen as the least effective.

"In fact, half of parents said this would be not too or not at all effective. This question was asked of all parents with a child younger than 18, regardless of whether they have a child in K-12 schools," the report continued.
Questions by Salem councilor to city staff over contract halted due to ethical concerns

Salm city councilors were reminded earlier this year of city rules prohibiting them from attempting to influence the city manager regarding issues related to contracts. The reminder was emailed following councilor Julie Hoy's questions about a 2017 tire contract for the city's fleet vehicles,

Correspondence between Salem city councilor Julie Hoy and the city manager's office about a 2017 contract for the city's fleet vehicle tires ended with City Manager Keith Stahley reminding her that councilors and the mayor are prohibited from attempting to influence the manager regarding issues related to contracts.

In email records obtained by the Statesman Journal through a public records request, Hoy questioned why the city switched its contract from Cascade Tire Pros to a state contract. She also asked what could be done to bring business back to the local company.

City officials replied to Hoy that the city chose to move its business from Cascade Tire to a State of Oregon contract for a variety of reasons. The city spends more than $300,000 a year on tires, an amount that requires them to use a competitive process when selecting a vendor.

"This is about transparency and fairness and our local economy," Hoy, who represents Ward 6 and is running for mayor, said Thursday. She said she didn't understand why the contract was changed and why it couldn't change again back to a local business.

She said she raised the questions after being approached by a small business in town that felt unheard.

"I've been asking some tough questions about what to do," Hoy said. "I was simply trying to help a local business, a constituent in the city, a citizen."

Stahley told the Statesman Journal that staff considers a variety of factors, including cost, service and access to different brands. Piggybacking on the state's contracts also acts as a time- and cost-saving measure, he said.

"The city has very well-established procurement procedures," he said. "We follow those to a T. We have recently been audited in regards to those procedures. They are the best way to prevent us from any sort of appeared or actual violation of state procurement process or any sort of ethics violation."

The questions Hoy asked about the tire contract

In emails, from Feb. 26 to Feb. 29, Hoy inquired why the city couldn't switch tire contracts to save money.

"If we can support a local, family-owned, Salem business... why wouldn't we?" she asked.

The city provided a vendor summary to Hoy and the owner of Cascade Tire Pros, which outlined "the fair and diligent selection process for tire vendors facilitated through their partnership with NAPA IBS."

What city staff told Hoy

Fleet services assistant director Jim Schmidt said in the vendor summary that the city maintains a competitive and transparent process for selecting tires that align with the city's needs.

The fleet uses products from several local vendors including Cascade Tire Pros, Superior Tires and Les Schwab Tires.

According to city records, Cascade Tire was paid $43,982 in the budget year that ended June 30, 2023, and $70,675 so far in the current budget year. The owner of the company did not immediately respond to follow-up questions from the Statesman Journal.

"Our approach prioritizes efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and long-term value, ultimately contributing to the uninterrupted operation of essential city services," Schmidt said in the summary.

Hoy submits additional questions

Hoy submitted additional questions from herself and Ryan Hazelbaker, the owner of Cascade Tire, to Deputy City Manager Krishna Namburi.

The questions entailed inquiries on the data used to support the vendor selection, cost-per-mile studies and reviewing invoices from other businesses.

"Your response, Krishna, feels driven by Jim Schmidt," Hoy said in the email. "I may be pretty new to this ... and if he is the roadblock to better business ... we deserve better."

Ethics rules bar attempts to influence city manager decisions

The ensuing city correspondence indicated a concern over ethical rules being stretched.

City Chief Finance Officer Josh Eggleston said to Stahley that he was concerned about Rule 14 and Section 23 of the city charter being violated.

"There is a council rule and charter clause that deal very directly with your inquiry," Stahley said in an email to Hoy.

Newly elected city councilors participate in a series of orientation meetings with staff from the time they are typically elected in May to when they take office in January. New council members receive information regarding all city departments and their operations, as well as guidance on Council Rules, the Salem Charter, and state and city ethics requirements. Hoy went through that orientation process in 2022.

Rule 14 maintains any councilor request requiring more than one hour of staff time be approved by city council beforehand.

Section 23 states that except in council meetings, no council member may directly or indirectly, attempt to influence the city manager in decisions regarding city property or contacts.

"The City Charter prohibits the Mayor and Councilors from attempting to influence the manager regarding issues related to contracts," Stahley said in the email to Hoy. "Matters relating to contracting are best discussed in an open council meeting."

Stahley said in the email to Hoy that he considered the matter closed. No formal reprimand or action was taken.

He sent an email on Feb. 29 to counselors reminding them of the rules.

Hoy told the Statesman Journal she had no intention of breaking rules with her questions.

She said she does not plan to bring the issue before council and said she is focusing on the budget discussions. The city's budget committee is currently meeting to address the looming deficit and potential budget cuts. Possible cuts could include cutting police, fire and library positions and eliminating homelessness services.

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: Salem councilor, staff discussion stopped due to ethical concerns
CANANDAIGUA, NY  UR Medicine Thompson Health and the nonprofit organization Donate Life New York State are teaming up to raise awareness of the lifesaving impact made by organ, eye and tissue donors.

The goal is to encourage members of the community to consider enrolling in the New York State Donate Life Registry.

How will awareness of organ donation be raised?

On Wednesday, April 10, Thompson staff members will raise a Donate Life flag on the flag pole just outside the Constellation Center for Health and Healing at F.F. Thompson Hospital. The flag will fly through April 30.

The Department of Motor Vehicles in Canandaigua also is raising a flag from April 10 to the end of the month.

A Donate Life flag will be raised April 10 on the flag pole just outside the Constellation Center for Health and Healing at F.F. Thompson Hospital to raise awareness of organ donation.

NY organ donation statistics

While more than 3,000 lifesaving organ transplants were performed in the state last year, nearly 8,500 New Yorkers remain on the national organ transplant waiting list.

In 2021, 465 patients awaiting an organ transplant in New York state died because the organ needed to save their lives was not donated in time.

A single organ donor can save up to eight lives, while tissue and cornea donors can improve more than 75 lives.

What else is UR Medicine Thompson Health doing?

Thompson has a long history of supporting organ, eye and tissue donation through a partnership with a regional organ procurement organization and the multidisciplinary team of associates who dedicate time to the Donate Life Workgroup, stated ICU/Observation Nursing Director Mary Kate Corey, who oversees the Donate Life Workgroup at Thompson.

This workgroup meets throughout the year to review data, update policies and procedures, ensure compliance with best practices and educate associates.

Many of us involved in the workgroup have a personal connection to organ, eye, or tissue donation. We understand the magnitude of the lifesaving gifts donors provide and the comfort loved ones feel when they learn that gifts were successfully placed with recipients, Corey stated. Any of us, or our loved ones, could be in need of a treatment or procedure supported by donation in the future. The generous gifts of registered donors change countless lives each day.

Five ways to enroll in the Donate Life Registry

Seven million New Yorkers have already enrolled in the New York State Donate Life Registry, the states electronic database that documents a persons authorization to be an organ, eye and/or tissue donor upon their death.

New Yorkers who havent already enrolled have several opportunities to do so.

1. Check yes in the New York State Organ and Tissue Donation section when applying for or renewing your driver's license, learner permit or non-driver ID. The DMV will transmit your enrollment to the Registry and print a heart icon and the words Organ Donor on your photo document.

2. Sign up through the MyDMV website at dmv.ny.gov/mydmv/mydmv-0 using your NY.gov login credentials. The DMV will transmit your enrollment to the registry, but a heart icon and the words Organ Donor will not be printed on your photo document.

3. Enroll online in minutes by visiting the Registrys website at donatelife.ny.gov.

4. Complete the optional Register to donate your organs and tissues section on the back of your New York voter registration form. Your county Board of Elections will forward that page of the form to the New York State Donate Life Registry.

5. Check yes to the organ and tissue donation question when applying for health insurance through the New York State of Health Online Insurance Marketplace at nystateofhealth.ny.gov.

Additionally, New Yorkers can show their support for organ and tissue donation by purchasing a Life-Pass It On custom license plate from the DMV or making a voluntary $1 contribution to organ transplant research, education and donation promotion projects by checking off the box when applying for or renewing their driver's license, learner permit or non-driver ID.

This article originally appeared on MPNnow: Raising awareness of organ donation in the Finger Lakes NY
Rebuilding Kyiv Oblast power plant possible but 'futile' without air defense, Centerenergo says

The Trypillia Thermal Power Plant in Kyiv Oblast can be restored with international help but this will be "futile" without more air defense, Andrii Hota, the chair of Ukraine's state energy company Centerenergo's supervisory board, told Voice of America on April 11.

The Trypillia Thermal Power Plant was completely destroyed in a Russian attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure on April 11, leading to the total loss of Centrenergo's generating capacity.

The plant is located less than 30 kilometers south of Kyiv and was the main power supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts.

The Russian strike led to a large-scale fire in the turbine house of the plant. All of the plant's workers who were on the shift during the attack survived.

"We can restore everything," Hota said, but this will require the help of international partners, as equipment like turbines or transformers come from European countries.

"But without a sufficient number of missiles for anti-aircraft defense, it will, to put it mildly, be a futile affair," Hota added.

Russia began to intensify its attacks on energy infrastructure in March, when Ukraine started to face a critical shortage of air defense systems and ammunition.

Kyiv has been urging allies to provide Ukraine with more air defenses, in particular, with U.S.-made Patriot systems that can intercept ballistic missiles.

According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine needs 25 Patriots to cover the country completely, but Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said he is initially focused on securing seven.

Read also: Naftogaz: Russian attack targets two gas storage facilities









Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
In this article, we will be analyzing the US housing market and the pandemic's effect on it while covering the 20 major cities with home price increases since the pandemic. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis, you can move directly to the 5 Major Cities with the Highest Home Price Increases Since the Pandemic.

The Impact of the Pandemic on US Real Estate

As reported by Redfin, real estate in the US had drastically changed within 2 years of the pandemic, with the median prices going up by 34%. The proportion of homes selling above their list price also increased by 21.8% between 2020 and 2022, while the housing inventory declined by 49.9%.

On February 7, Zillow reported that rental prices have climbed by 29.4% since the outbreak of the pandemic. This accounts for an annual increase of 7% over the preceding 4 years. As of 2024, the year-over-year rise in rents has been recorded at 3.4%. Furthermore, the income necessary to afford rent has increased by 29%. Most expensive rental markets have also changed since San Francisco has moved from being the second most costly market for rents to the fourth place while New York and Boston came second and third. San Jose still tops the list. You can also take a look at some of the most overpriced housing markets in America.

Zillow reported that the new listings witnessed a rise of 43.5% month-over-month in January. However, these listings lagged behind the statistics for pre-pandemic January, 66% in 2019 and 63.4% in 2020. On the contrary, you can view some of the large US cities with the fewest homes for sale. As of January, the typical mortgage payment increased by 7.2% year-over-year while the rise since the pre-pandemic period was reported to be as high as 103.1%.

Current Market Dynamics

Amidst high mortgage rates, the US real estate market tends to be returning back to the pre-pandemic trend of home prices growing nearly half a percent every month. On March 25, CNBC reported that the month-over-month home price growth was recorded at 0.6% in February. Despite this rebound in home prices, affordability issues and a limited inventory continue to impact the market. Another significant difference between the current scenario and the one that was common before the pandemic is the decrease in the number of transactions. High mortgage rates have been cited as the reason behind this.

Even the aforementioned rise in new listings has been referred to as a minor recovery from rock bottom. On the brighter side, homeowners who chose to hold onto their homes during high mortgage rates are returning back to the market, resulting in a slightly improved supply of inventory. This mortgage rate lock-in effect is expected to diminish over time. On the other hand, a modest drop in mortgage rates has been forecasted while the home prices are going to be flat or unchanged across the country.

Story continues

Housing Options to Look Out For

Despite the substantial increase in home prices since the pandemic, American homebuilders including Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. (NYSE:TPH), KB Home (NYSE:KBH), and Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE:CCS) continue to offer reasonable real estate options to settle in various parts of the country. Lets take a look at what these firms have been up to. Some of the largest homebuilders in the US have also been previously discussed.

Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. (NYSE:TPH) is one of the largest American homebuilders and constructs premium homes and communities in 10 states. On April 2, Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. (NYSE:TPH) announced the opening of a 56-home neighborhood situated in Bonney Lake Glacier Pointe at Tehaleh. The companys customers will be able to access 10 unique design collections by the Emmy award-winning design expert, Bobby Berk. The three model homes first-ever designed by Bobby Berk have been made open for tours.

KB Home (NYSE:KBH) is one of the largest homebuilding companies in the US. The company has constructed more than 680,000 homes in the past. On April 5, KB Home (NYSE:KBH) announced the launch of its new community in Moreno Valley, California. While local schools are located close to the new community Palmetto, recreational activities such as hiking and mountain biking can also be enjoyed. Residents can also access Riverside Countys major employment centers. Those who are eager to shop or dine can visit Moreno Valley Mall. Pricing for the new homes at Palmetto starts from the $560,000s.

Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE:CCS) is a major American homebuilder that is engaged in the construction, innovative marketing, and sale of homes for diverse buyers. The company operates in 18 states and more than 45 markets across the country. On April 2, Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE:CCS) reported that the companys Century Complete brand has initiated sales in its new community in Rincon. The new community 'Pine Brook allows residents to access employment and entertainment hubs in Savannah due to its ideal location. The homes have been priced from the low $300,000s.

Now that we have analyzed the impact of the pandemic on the US real estate market and the current housing market situation, lets move to the 20 major cities with home price increases since the pandemic.

20 Major Cities with the Highest Home Price Increases Since the Pandemic

20 Major Cities with the Highest Home Price Increases Since the Pandemic

Our Methodology:

In order to compile a list of the 20 major cities with home price increases since the pandemic, we sourced data from the leading real estate data provider, Zillow. We utilized Zillows Metro Explorer to see the metro-wise change in median list prices since the pandemic. Hence, the cities have been ranked in ascending order of their increase in median list prices since the pandemic, as of February 2024.

20 Major Cities with the Highest Home Price Increases Since the Pandemic

20. Appleton

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 59.2%

Appleton is situated in the Outagamie, Calumet, and Winnebago counties in Wisconsin. As of February, the median list prices have increased by 59.2% in Appleton thereby ranking it among the major cities with the highest home price increase since the pandemic.

19. Longview

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 59.3%

Gregg County in Texas hosts the city of Longview. Currently, the median list price is $287,000 in the city. This price has experienced an increase of 59.3% since the pandemic.

18. Chattanooga

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 60.0%

Chattanooga is positioned along the Tennessee River. As of February, the increase in the citys median list price since the pandemic was reported to be 60.0%. This ranks the city 18th on our list.

17. Fayetteville

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 60.2%

Fayetteville is a populous city in Arkansas which ranks as one of the 20 cities with the highest home price increases since the pandemic. This increase was recorded at 60.2% by Zillow.

16. Springfield

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 60.3%

Springfield is located in the state of Missouri. As of February, the median list price in Springfield is $289,925. This price has increased by 60.3% as compared to the pre-pandemic times.

15. Port St. Lucie

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 61.5%

Port St. Lucie is positioned in St. Lucie County, Florida. As compared to pre-pandemic, the median list price in Port St. Lucie tends to be 61.5% higher.

14. Tampa

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 62.0%

Tampa is another Florida-based city where home prices have increased. The median list price in the city witnessed a rise of 62.0% since the pandemic.

13. Lakeland

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 62.5%

The 20 major cities with the highest home price increases since the pandemic rank Lakeland as well. While the current median list price in the city is $346,900, it has increased by 62.5% since the pandemic.

12. Clarksville

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 63.4%

Clarksville is a city in Tennessee where home prices have risen by 63.4% relative to the pre-pandemic period. $305,250 is the current median list price in the city.

11. Manchester

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 63.5%

Manchester is a populous city based in New Hampshire. As of February, the citys median list price has gone up by 10.6% year-over-year while recording a rise of 63.5% since the pandemic.

10. Kingsport

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 63.6%

Kingsport is situated in Sullivan and Hawkins counties in Tennessee. The median list price in the city is currently $276,750 and has increased by 63.6% as compared to the pre-pandemic duration.

9. Ocala

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 64.2%

The city of Ocala is in North Florida. The citys median list price has increased by 2.2% since 2023. Similarly, it has also increased by 64.2% since the pandemic.

8. Portland

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 64.7%

Portland ranks as one of the 20 major cities with price increases since the pandemic. The city is a part of Maine and has recorded a 64.7% rise in its median list price since that period.

7. El Paso

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 65.9%

El Paso is located in El Paso County, Texas. As compared to the pre-pandemic times, the median list price in El Paso has gone up by 65.9%. Currently, the citys median list price is $287,000.

6. Allentown

Home Price Increase Since Pandemic: 66.1%

Allentown ranks 6th on our list by recording an increase of 66.1% in its median list price since the pandemic. The city is situated in Pennsylvania. As of February, prices in Allentown have also gone up year-over-year.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Major Cities with the Highest Home Price Increases Since the Pandemic.

Suggested articles:

Disclosure: None. 20 Major Cities with the Highest Home Price Increases Since the Pandemic is originally published on Insider Monkey.
An unprecedented array of Democratic and Republican female candidates are challenging incumbents for seats in the General Assembly, contending its past time for more women to have a seat at the table in legislating policy that includes much more than abortion.

In advocating for a slew of issues ranging from abortion rights to constitutional carry, from judicial reform to education and the economy, a record slate of women are vying for seats in the State House in hopes of creating a louder voice for women, which makeup more than 50 percent of the states population. Currently, just over six percent of women serve in the House, and only seven percent in the Senate.

If youre not at the table then youre on the menu, said Lynn Teague, vice president of issues and actions for the League of Women Voters in South Carolina. Women are underrepresented in South Carolina state government, virtually more than in any other state.

Women make up 51.5% of the population of South Carolina, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Belinda Timmons, a Democrat running for Senate District 31 against freshman state Sen. Mike Reichenbach, R-Florence, echoed Teague, saying more women taking a seat at the table will help to ensure women voices are heard.

Women are not viewed as having an opinion, she said. We have an opinion, we have choices, we know how to make intelligent and informed decisions, and now is the time to step and say, This is what were going to do, to make decisions not only for women but for the state as a whole.

The General Assemblys lack of female representation has lead to legislative decisions that some candidates classify as a complete disregard of women rights, most notably relating to abortion access.

Katie Crosby, a 30-year-old Democrat looking to unseat state Rep. Mike Neese, R-Lancaster, in House District 44, said she shes seeking to restore bodily autonomy for women after failing to find a candidate who pledged to the same.

If not me, then who?, she asked. We (as women) want our own rights to our healthcare. Women really need representation in our state, I mean we saw what happened when we lost the only woman we had on our Supreme Court, becoming the only state without a women on its Supreme Court. And now we have lost our bodily autonomy. We need to make sure we take back and protect our freedom to make our own health care decisions.

Kate Creech, a Democrat seeking to replace House Judiciary Committee Chairman Weston Newton, R-Beaufort, in District 120, said after having an abortion, shes heavily advocating for reproductive healthcare and a womans right to choose.

As someone who has personally experienced (an abortion), I can attest that its a very personal decision, and there should be no reason the government is involved in that decision, she said. After watching whats being happening in our state ... with abortion bans, I realized that there is no time like the present, its time to step up.

Other female candidates, such as Jody Bohman, a Republican running for House District 14  a seat currently occupied by state Rep. Stewart Jones, R-Laurens, whos not seeking reelection  said shes tired of politicians not honoring promises made on the campaign trail.

Im a retired wife and mother, and Im simply just tired of tired of our politicians saying one thing and getting to Columbia and doing another thing, Bohman said. Women are tired of this and just want to get out there and do something about it. Its kind of like being a mom, when you need to get things done, you just go out and do them.

Despite the lack of representation of women in the General Assembly, several other women say theyre running only after being asked by their local parties.

Julie Hussey, a Republican seeking to replace Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee Chairman Chip Campsen, R-Charleston, said she decided to run after being approached the Charleston County Democratic party.

When I was asked (to run), I thought about how I had watched the abortion debates (in the State House), and after I called to let my moderate voice be known, I was completely ignored, Hussey said.

I was so disappointed when I noticed my state senator was adamant that the states privacy rights didnt extend to women, Hussey said. I thought to myself This is not okay, Im very frustrated by this. Obviously he didnt listen to my call, and I think he didnt listen to calls by anyone else, and that just made me think we need to do better.

Lindsey Agostina, likewise, said her motivation to run was prompted by men who knew state Sen. Thomas McElveen, of District 35, wasnt seeking reelection.

Ironically, I had several men reach out to me before any women, asking me to run, knowing about my experience, Agostina said, who serves as a Richland Two school board member. Women followed up, and along the same sentiments of while we need strong women ... we want a person with conviction who stands up for whats right, even if it means standing alone. But also somebody with the ability to build consensus when its needed.

Agostina, who is not running for reelection to the school board, was first elected as a Richland Two board trustee in 2016. In following her role as a school board trustee, she said her Senate candidacy is centered around quality education for all.

Making sure school safety is top priority is something weve spent a lot of time on in Richland Two, as well as advocating for competitive teacher salaries and more educational options for parents, she said.

Still, other candidates say judicial reform is at the forefront of their anticipated legislative agendas, including Timmons, who formerly served as chief magistrate for Florence County.

We need judges who are going to be on the bench, whether Democrat or Republican, whos not going to apply the law based on the General Assembly, Timmons said. We dont need judges handpicked by friends, they need to be qualified to be able to interpret the law. And with me being the former chief magistrate, I have that experience, I know the issues that we deal with everyday.

Many of the women candidates say they are excited a record number of women are seeking election to the State House, as it will ensure that their voices are heard.

Thats why were seeing women running for office, because women feel like their voices are not being heard, Crosby said. Were standing up en masse to say Youre going to listen to us. We might not get what we want, but youre going to hear us, at least.
The RAF's Red Arrow aerobatic team was due to perform in an air show in Gibraltar on Sept 23 last year, but the performance was cancelled - CHRONICLE/ALAMY

As His Majestys representative in Gibraltar, perhaps Vice-Adml Sir David Steel more keenly felt issues of Britishness and the Rocks connection to the mainland than the career UK diplomats.

Sir David, the governor of Gibraltar, is a Royal Navy man, having joined the service in 1979 and risen to Second Sea Lord. Along the way he became an aide-de-camp to Elizabeth II.

And so in the heat of late summer 2023, as a row between Spain and the UK that had been bubbling away for weeks began to approach boiling point, perhaps it is no surprise he spoke up.

The cause of the friction was on the face of it innocuous: a proposed display of the Red Arrows, just like the ones that have taken place at countless events around the UK for decades.

The controversy came from the location. It was in the skies above Gibraltar at an air show on Sept 28 that the red, white and blue smoke from the jets would billow out.

Gibraltar, a few square miles of land hanging off the southern tip of Spain, has long been claimed by Madrid since being ceded to Great Britain in 1713. With the border complexities created by Brexit, those claims were being elevated.

Vice-Adml Sir David Steel, the governor of Gibraltar, fought against the cancellation of the Red Arrows display - PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo/PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

Yet Sir David, leaked diplomatic cables seen by The Telegraph reveal, believed that giving in to Spanish demands and cancelling the display would not be without consequence.

In a message to Hugh Elliott, the UK ambassador to Spain who was receiving Madrids warnings, Sir David noted how the diplomat was walking on hot coals. But there was a plea to hold firm.

I cannot disagree with your submission which is, as ever, balanced and helpful, Sir David wrote in the message sent to Mr Elliott in early September.

All I would add, and I am becoming a broken record on the subject, is that if we back down now we will once again show a weakness that the Spanish will undoubtedly exploit.

The governor of Gibraltar cited past examples, including the cancellation of a visit planned by HMS Queen Elizabeth, the vast Royal Navy aircraft carrier, to make his case.

He wrote: I am also conscious that we have turned off a number of events over the last three years (not least a visit of HMS Queen Elizabeth) just to appease SP [Spanish] sensitivities. In return we have gained very little  just more demands.

The fact that a recent visit from HMS Queen Elizabeth to Gibraltar was called off to appease Madrid has never before been made public.

A visit of HMS Queen Elizabeth to Gibraltar was called off because of diplomatic tensions - Andrew Milligan/PA

Sir David reflected on the Rocks UK connections, noting that after a walk down Gibraltars Main Street one is left in no doubt about British Sovereignty.

His communique ended with no ultimatum, just a gentle nudge. I make no observation on what the right outcome should be, Sir David wrote, noting the pros and cons were carefully balanced. But I add the above simply so that we have all the issues for consideration on the table before a final decision is taken.

The final decision would not be to hold firm. There would be no Red Arrow jets trailing the colours of the Union flag above the Rock. Why? Madrids dark warnings appear to have been the key.

For the timing of the planned display could not have been more precarious for British-Spanish relations and the long-term future of Gibraltar.

The UKs departure from the EU had left the Rock, much like Northern Ireland, facing profound questions about how to keep a land border with another country still in the bloc open.

Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, had struck a new deal to avoid checks at the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland, an EU member, after inheriting a temporary fudge from Boris Johnson.

His ministers were facing a similar challenge in Gibraltar. How to let the 30,000 people who cross the Gibraltar-Spain border every day, many for work, to keep doing so in the aftermath of Brexit?

Boots on the ground

Round after round of negotiations had been inching towards a long-term settlement, one where Gibraltar effectively enters the EU Schengen Zone and checks happen at the airport rather than the border.

But the most sensitive issues  would there be any Spanish boots on the ground on Gibraltar? And if so, where exactly and doing what?  were still to be decided. On Friday, Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, was still locked in talks trying to agree the final details.

Added on top was the intense political instability in Spain created by an election on July 23 that left no clear winner and Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish prime minister, battling to retain power.

Months of coalition talks would follow. The Red Arrows display was due on the day that the Spanish Parliament was set to endorse a newly proposed government. In the end, one would not be fully formed until Nov 16.

And so it fell to senior officials in Spains foreign ministry, rather than ministers selected from elected politicians, to press home their disapproval once they became aware of the plans.

In three calls in the space of two days, a senior Spanish official spelt out to Mr Elliott just how opposed Madrid was to a Red Arrows fly-by above Gibraltar.

Notes on the first two conversations written up by the political section of the British Embassy in Madrid capture the female officials stern message, one of firm warning.

Spain was "deeply opposed" to the Red Arrows trailing the colours of the Union flag over the Rock - Cpl Phil Dye/Royal Air Force/CMA

The Spanish official said that Spain considered the display unnecessary, unconstructive and provocative, according to the notes. This was not the time to undertake this sort of activity.

Another line in the notes read: When Hugh underlined that this was an air show, not intended for provocation or demonstration, her riposte was that the two were not mutually exclusive.

What would happen if the UK went ahead? The political team in the British embassy in Spain was not certain, but a reaction of some form was a distinct possibility.

One part read: It remains to be seen whether Spain responds more strongly, potentially by cancelling it, or by making a formal request of use for the Red Arrows not to perform in Gibraltar. But it is clear that Spain is deeply opposed to the activity.

The third call did not improve the situation. In fact, the warnings were more explicit, as Mr Elliott himself recounted in a communique back to the Foreign Office.

Spain was refusing to grant the Red Arrows a Notification of Air Missions, known by its acronym NOTAM, which is the formal approval that allows planes to fly.

Warning of retaliation

Mr Elliott wrote: The rationale was that Spain considered such a visible assertion of UK sovereignty over Gibraltar to be gratuitous and provocative.

The UK position was that no such approval was needed, since the display would be happening largely over British airspace. But Madrid was warning of retaliation if it went ahead.

Summing up the message of the female Spanish official, Mr Elliott wrote: Stressing that she was speaking personally and hypothetically  she noted that if we sought to proceed nonetheless with the display, Spain would consider that a hostile act, would seek to prevent it from happening and would need to consider its response. She anticipated that response would not be mild.

What, exactly, were the consequences being hinted at for this hostile act? Could it mean Madrid pressing for tougher terms in the post-Brexit Gibraltar deal? It is unclear, but certainly British diplomats feared knock-on consequences for the talks.

And how, exactly, would Spain attempt to prevent the flights? Again, the specifics appeared to be left unsaid.

A precarious balance of risks and interests was now being weighed: the need for a Gibraltar agreement, the publicity knock if a display of Britishness was shelved at the demand of the Spanish, the unpredictable fallout if the private row escalated into a public spat.

It was not the first time Mr Elliott had found himself in a tricky spot over Gibraltar. His claims of bullying from Dominic Raab, the then foreign secretary who dressed down the ambassador over fears he was too open to Spanish suggestions of boots on the ground, had made front pages. Mr Raab resigned after an investigation upheld the complaint.

Different tone

In the final lines of his message back to London, Mr Elliott  stationed out in Madrid and tapped into the Spanish Government sentiments  offered advice markedly different in tone to that put forward by Sir David, the governor of Gibraltar.

Sir David wrote: As a personal observation on this issue, I would simply note that of course we have every right to do what we want in Gibraltarian territory and airspace.

That said, there are probably few things more provocative to the Spanish establishment mindset than the prospect of red, white and blue smoke being pumped out by UK military jets off the south coast of Spain (the geography means that this will be very visible from the Spanish mainland), on a day when the Spanish parliament is seeking to approve a new government, and I simply venture the question as to whether doing so is consistent with HMGs [His Majestys Government] strategic interests for Gibraltars future.

The decision, as ever in government business, was not for the diplomats. Advisers advise and ministers decide, as the old Westminster adage goes. But which ministers?

Both James Cleverly, the former foreign secretary, and Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, were briefed on the situation as the hand-wringing continued about what to do.

The fact that the matter was elevated all the way to the Cabinet is a reflection of how seriously Madrids words were being heeded by those paid to smooth out wrinkles in foreign relations.

Did not intervene

But Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, has its own government, one which is democratically elected by the 30,000-odd residents and holds London at arms length.

The official line from Whitehall is that Mr Cleverly and Mr Shapps ultimately did not need to intervene, since ministers in Gibraltar made the call and cancelled the display.

If Spanish demands could force a back-tracking in something as incidental as an air display, could it also be leading to more significant, long-term concessions around the negotiation table? That is the question now hanging with a deal finally said to be close.

The UK Foreign Office, Spanish foreign ministry, Mr Elliott and Sir David declined to comment when approached by The Telegraph. A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: As part of operational planning, a variety of potential display dates and locations are considered by the RAF. A wide range of factors influence whether these are able to proceed.

The change in the Gibraltar Air Show schedule, when it came, was offset by the reciprocal cancellation of a Red Arrows appearance in Menorca, one of Spains Balearic islands.

An unnamed defence source framed the news  two Red Arrow displays cancelled, one in Gibraltar and one in Spain  as somehow a UK win. They cant have their paella and eat it, the source declared with relish.

These leaked cables reveal a starker reality: That it was anything but a British victory.

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The Colorado Capitol (Photo by Quentin Young of the Colorado Newsline).

A Republican Colorado lawmaker left a loaded handgun unattended in a Capitol bathroom earlier this week, the Colorado State Patrol confirmed on Thursday.

CSP said a janitor found a 9-mm Glock on a shelf inside a single-occupancy restroom on Tuesday around around 9:20 p.m. The Capitol stopped letting members of the public enter the building at 7 p.m.

Rep. Don Wilson of Monument said the weapon is his and apologized for the incident in a written statement on Thursday afternoon. Wilson was at the Capitol for a House Judiciary Committee meeting, which ran late into the evening following consideration of an impeachment attempt against Secretary of State Jena Griswold and one other bill.

I want to be clear that I take full and complete accountability for the incident, he wrote. I take firearm safety very seriously. This is a humbling experience and I will reaffirm my commitment to responsible handling procedures.

CSP said video surveillance shows Wilson leaving the restroom around 8:58, meaning the gun was unattended for about 20 minutes.

Wilson contacted CSP around 10:15 to report leaving the item in the restroom. The gun was returned to him about five minutes later.

After completing an investigation into the incident it was determined by Capitol troopers that no state statutes were violated and there are no criminal charges pending as a result of this incident, a release from CSP said.

People with Capitol credentials, including lawmakers, are allowed to carry firearms inside the building. The Senate passed a bill last week, however, that would strip lawmakers of that privilege and prohibit people from carrying guns in sites such as schools, polling places and at the Capitol. The measure is now in the House for consideration.

The consequences of leaving a firearm unattended in a public space could be very serious, and the incident this week created a dangerous situation. This should not have happened and cannot happen again, and this is why our caucus is pursuing legislation to prohibit carrying firearms in the Capitol, House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a Dillion Democrat, said in a statement.

House Majority Leader Monica Duran said she expects Wilson to follow through with his commitment not to carry his firearm at the Capitol.

Wilson is not seeking another term in the Legislature and is instead running for an El Paso County commissioner seat.

There have been several incidents of improper firearm handling by Republicans at the Legislature in recent years. Last year, Rep. Ron Weinberg of Loveland had two guns stolen from his parked car outside the building. In 2022, Rep. Richard Holtorf of Akron dropped his gun inside the Capitol as he rushed to a vote. And in 2014, Rep. Jared Wright of Fruita left his gun unattended in a committee room.

This story was produced by Colorado Newsline which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

The post Republican lawmaker leaves loaded gun unattended in Colorado Capitol bathroom appeared first on Daily Montanan.
My buddy says, Well, you cant trust what Liz Cheney says. And I am thinking, Wait a minute. Liz Cheney, the consummate conservative Reagan Republican, daughter of the former vice president of the United States, knowing that if she serves on the January 6 Select Committee she will be ostracized by her fellow Republicans and will lose her seat in Congress. Why would you not trust Liz Cheney? But you trust Donald Trump?

A recent Wall Street Journal poll shows that one-third of Americans do not believe Joe Biden was elected legitimately. Two-thirds of Republicans who voted in caucuses and primaries believe Trumps claims of a stolen election. If you say something enough times to enough people, does it suddenly become the truth?

The people in America who actually conduct our elections are our neighbors, regular people who in many cases volunteer their time in cities and counties at the polls to make sure the process is done properly. These folks are patriotic Republicans, Democrats, independents and just plain old honest people who take pride in what they are doing for their country. I believe in these people. Instead, Trump insults them every day.

Don't let Donald Trump anywhere near the Oval Office when you cast your vote in November for president of the United States, a guest columnist writes.

Trump is obsessed with himself

Trump is obsessed with himself. He is addicted to the attention he gets from his supporters. He loves to stand in front of large groups of loyal people, say outrageous things and hear the cheers and applause. He loves to threaten, criticize and demean those who disagree with him.

I voted for Trump  twice. Liz Cheney's book and DOJ Jan. 6 indictment changed my mind | Opinion

Trump knew by Dec. 14, 2020, that he had lost the election. He knew because his supporters, lawyers and staff members told him over and over again that he lost. Judges, many of whom he appointed, ruled that there was no evidence that the election was stolen by anyone. However, he just couldnt accept the truth. Instead, he chose to align himself with Rudy Giuliani, Sidney Powell and others who would tell him what he wanted to hear and concoct amazing conspiracy theories. Fox News helped promote these peoples stories and ended up paying a $700 million settlement for their bad judgment.

Trump's tweets invited his supporters to D.C. on Jan. 6

Then Trump doubled down. He started sending tweets to his supporters, inviting them to Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021, saying, Its going to be wild. He arranged for certain people in selected states to create fraudulent electoral certificates and had them sent to Washington in an outrageous scheme to overturn the electoral vote count. He cajoled, harassed and threatened his own loyal Vice President Mike Pence to get him to illegally use his position to overturn the election results.

Then came the ultimate debacle, the unthinkable attack on the U.S. Capitol by extreme Trump loyalists who thought they were doing the right thing for their leader. And while these people terrorized, Trump sat in his dining room and enjoyed the show. God bless Pence for having the courage to stand up to the threats and do his duty according to the Constitution.

Oklahoma columnist on MSNBC: 'I had my mind made up about Trump' after reading Liz Cheney

To my fellow Republicans, I ask: Who are you going to trust? The irony of Trumps stolen election lie is that the only person who even attempted to steal an election was Trump. He is the only president in our 250-year history who failed to live up to his constitutional duty and peacefully relinquish his position to a duly elected opponent.

As a 50+ year conservative Republican, I am going to have a difficult time when voting day comes. I am not a fan of several policy actions by President Biden, specifically immigration, budget deficits, etc. However, I believe our mission is to do everything in our power to make sure Trump does not come near the Oval Office again. We really have only one rational choice, and that is to take a deep breath and vote for Biden in November.

Jim Young

Jim Young is retired from a 42-year career as a senior banking executive and community leader in Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Republicans, vote for Joe Biden. Don't put Donald Trump back in office
As Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, speaks to reporters, on the floor of the House of Representatives on April 10, 2024, Democratic lawmakers looked on and chastised him. Gress had earlier unsuccessfully tried to force a vote on a bill to repeal the 1864 near-total abortion ban that the Arizona Supreme Court said needs to be enforced a day earlier. (Photo by Gloria Rebecca Gomez | Arizona Mirror)

A day after the Arizona Supreme Court ruled to reinstate a near-total abortion ban from 1864, Republican lawmakers in the legislature blocked multiple efforts to repeal the law, saying they need more time to consider the repercussions of doing so.

On Tuesday, the states high court overturned the decision of an appeals court that preserved a 2022 law limiting abortions up to 15 weeks and concluded that a Civil War-era law which punishes doctors with prison time for performing an abortion should be the law of the land.

The ruling ignited a political firestorm, with Republicans across the state quickly issuing statements denouncing the 1864 law. Opponents of the near-total ban, including some GOP lawmakers and Gov. Katie Hobbs, called on the legislature to repeal the 1864 law. Under the high courts ruling, the ban will go into effect in June.

A movement to repeal the 1864 law emerged in the legislature on Wednesday, with one Republican lawmaker spearheading the first failed attempt. Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, made a motion to suspend the chambers rules and force a final vote on House Bill 2667, which would repeal the Civil War-era law. That bill, along with another that sought to strike down both the 1864 law and a prohibition on advertising abortion services, were introduced in January by Rep. Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, a Democrat from Tucson, but Republicans refused to consider them.

Gress attempt to push through the repeal was foiled by Rep. David Livingston, R-Peoria, who immediately made a substitute motion to recess. Republicans voted to recess, and Democratic lawmakers, all of whom were dressed in green in a nod to the abortion rights movement, erupted into shouts of Shame! and Save womens lives!

Once the House returned from a short break, Stahl Hamilton made another attempt at forcing a vote on the proposal. The Democrat denounced the state Supreme Courts decision as extreme and urged her colleagues to support the bid to repeal.

Should the 1864 ban on abortion remain the law in Arizona, people will die, she warned. We are here as public servants, we are here as representatives and, right now, in this moment, we need to think about the millions of people in Arizona whose lives are affected by the people in this body.

Are we here to serve the public or are we here to enact laws that have such constraints that the consequences are dire?

That motion also failed, as Republicans used a procedural move to instead adjourn until April 17 instead of allowing a vote on whether or not to repeal the law. Majority Whip Teresa Martinez criticized the earlier reaction from Democrats as childish and insurrectionist behavior. And lawmakers, she added, should have more time to consider the courts ruling and its consequences before voting.

The Arizona Supreme Courts 47-page ruling was released just yesterday, and 24 hours later, chants from the floor shame, shame. That is simply because we do not want to repeal the pre-Roe law before we have a conversation about it, she said.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, House Speaker Ben Toma said he wont support repealing the 1864 law. The Republican from Glendale, who is running to represent a ruby red West Valley district in Congress, said that the issue of abortion is too fraught with moral implications to legislate on so quickly.

Weve had a little over 24 hours since this came out, he said. This is a very emotional, charged complicated issue. For many of us, were talking about protecting the lives of the unborn, too, which some of us fundamentally and ethically have a really big problem with. Its completely unfair to rush this through.

Toma and Senate President Warren Petersen, also a Republican, both urged the Supreme Court to enact the 1864 abortion ban.

Toma added that, even if the bill to repeal the 1864 law passes, it will make little difference. Because the bill was never given a hearing in the legislature, attaching an emergency clause to it that could make it effective immediately isnt an option. Like all other laws, the bill would only be implemented 90 days after the current legislative session ends. And that could be months after the courts ruling reinstating the Civil War-era law takes effect.

Instead, Toma said, the push from Democrats to pass the repeal was simply political opportunism, as Democrats are seeking to highlight reproductive rights ahead of the November election.

But the bill is likely to make it back onto the floor at some point, Toma assured reporters, though he didnt specify when. Nor would he share how many Republicans besides Gress had expressed support for repealing the Civil War-era abortion ban and instead letting the 2022 15-week gestational ban take effect.

Democratic leaders decried the stonewalling from Republicans. Minority Leader Lupe Contreras, D-Avondale, rebutted the claims that more time is needed to consider the bill by pointing out that it has been available to review since the beginning of the legislative session. And the bill is hardly complicated: It is a single sentence long and merely repeals the near-total ban from state law.

Republicans are hesitating, Contreras said, because theyre fearful about the political backlash from conservative voters.

Its nothing new, he said. The only thing is the narrative has changed on their end. They now are pushed, their feet are to the fire, and theyre looking at what could happen.

Rep. Oscar De Los Santos, the assistant minority leader, added that those Republicans who are now supporting the repeal are merely trying to avoid the fallout from an unpopular abortion ban. And even despite that limited support, the Laveen Democrat said, the GOP majority failed to deliver a repeal.

They failed the people of Arizona when they failed to co-sponsor (the bill), he said. They failed the people of Arizona when they failed to give it a committee hearing. And they failed the people of Arizona again today. It is disgusting. And any effort to flip that narrative is a craven, spineless attempt to save their political careers.

Republicans take conflicting positions

Gress told reporters after his initial motion that he was committed to repealing the 1864 law. The Phoenix Republican was among the first to speak out against the 1864 law when the state Supreme Courts ruling was released.

But reproductive rights advocates criticized his stance as insincere, pointing out that the freshman lawmaker proposed several laws last year that would have codified fetal personhood into state law, effectively banning all abortions. Among those laws was one to allow pregnant women to drive in the HOV lane and another to extend child support payments to the date of the first positive pregnancy test.

Gress, who represents a highly competitive district and is seeking reelection this year, dismissed that criticism, saying that the bills were simply mischaracterized and actually intended to help women.

Gress said there are enough Republican lawmakers in both chambers to pass a repeal. However, he said he wouldnt entertain the possibility of removing Toma as speaker to make that vote a reality.

We have people on our side of the aisle that feel very strongly that women should not be condemned to carry out a pregnancy to term, especially victims of rape or incest and certainly (when it endangers) the life of the mother, he said. Arizonans are on the same page: Reasonable restrictions on abortion, 15 weeks, is where most of us are at, with exceptions.

The 15-week gestational ban that was enacted in 2022, which is the alternative supported by Arizona Republicans, includes no exceptions for rape or incest.

While all 28 Democrats in the lower chamber support repealing the 1864 law, three more votes are needed to form a majority coalition that can make the motion to introduce the bill to do so. That means peeling away Republican lawmakers. And another GOP member who signaled interest in supporting that bid was Rep. David Cook, R-Globe, who said the near-total ban doesnt reflect the will of modern Arizonans.

In the time that the territorial law was done, in my business, we used to hang cattle thieves, said Cook, who is in the ranching industry. We dont do that anymore. Weve progressed as a state, and theres a lot of things that need to be cleaned up, and this is one of them.

Cook was among those who voted for the 15-week law two years ago. That law included a provision that stated it doesnt repeal any laws  and specifically the 1864 near-total ban  that came before it. The Arizona Supreme Court leaned heavily on that provision in its reasoning for why the Civil War-era law should be reinstated.

And during Wednesdays motion to adjourn, instead of voting against it and forcing consideration of the repeal bill, Cook supported ending the legislatures work for the week. In an interview with the Arizona Mirror afterwards, Cook said party leadership has assured him they will hold closed-door meetings to work on legislation of its own. The one-sentence Democratic bill, he said, might not be the right move.

The bill that Democrats were trying to move, I had never read. That bill never had a hearing, he said. Someone can tell me what the bill does, but I didnt feel comfortable not knowing what the bill actually says it does. We are going to do a bill, and I want to make sure its the right bill for me and my constituents and the people.

Push in the upper chamber fails, too

In the Senate, a similar effort to repeal the 1864 law was also stopped in its tracks by Republican leaders. Sen. Anna Hernandez, D-Phoenix, sought to add an amendment repealing the law to a Republican-led bill criminalizing the visual depiction of bestiality.

Because no bills were introduced in the Senate to repeal the near-total ban, an amendment to another bill was the only avenue left.

But Hernandezs attempt to introduce the amendment was blocked by Senate President Warren Petersen, who quickly motioned to adjourn rather than recognizing Hernandez or Minority Leader Mitzi Epstein, who also sought to offer the amendment.

The @AZSenateGOP refused to recognize me to speak on the floor and refused to allow me to make a motion to repeal the territorial abortion ban in Arizona, Hernandez posted on X, formerly Twitter, afterwards. By their actions, the message from this chamber is that they are so pro-life they will kill you.

Epstein, D-Tempe, told reporters afterwards that Democrats will continue working to repeal the 1864 law. By contrast, she said, Republicans have consistently failed to show any interest in doing so.

Ever since the Dobbs decision came down, they couldve worked with us to repeal this horrible ban, and they have not, she said. I do not trust them to look out for the health of the people of Arizona.

This story was written and produced by the Arizona Mirror which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

The post Republicans thwarted attempts to repeal Arizonas 1864 abortion ban, saying they need more time appeared first on Daily Montanan.
China is aiding Russia's war machine in Ukraine by providing machine tools, weapons technology, and satellite imagery, Reuters reported on April 12, citing U.S. officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

China officially declares itself a neutral party to Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine, but Washington has continued to sound the alarm on Beijing's support of Moscow's defense-industrial expansion efforts.

According to one official, supplies from China are helping Russia launch its "most ambitious defense expansion since the Soviet era and on a faster timeline than we believed possible early on in this conflict."

Officials said that Russia uses machine tool shipments from China to bolster its production of ballistic missiles, and that Chinese microelectronics are used in the production of Russian missiles, tanks, and aircraft.

The officials said that 90% of Russia's microelectronics imports in 2023 came from China.

Chinese businesses such as iRay Technology and the North China Research Institute of Electro-Optics also supply Russia with military optics for tanks and armored vehicles, they said.

China also provides Russia with drone engines and officials said that Chinese and Russian firms are working together to manufacture drones within Russia.

Along with these supplies, Chinese businesses may also be furnishing Russia with nitrocellulose, used to make propellants for weapons. The officials also told reporters that U.S. intelligence indicates that Chinia is providing satellite imagery to Russia for use in Ukraine.

"Our view is that one of the most game-changing moves available to us at this time to support Ukraine is to persuade the PRC (People's Republic of China) to stop helping Russia reconstitute its military industrial base," one official said.

"Russia would struggle to sustain its war effort without PRC input."

China has insisted that its alliance with Russia is normal and that it has not supported either Ukraine or Russia with weapons throughout the full-scale war.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded to Western criticism in a press conference on April 10, saying the partnership between Beijing and Moscow constituted "normal cooperation."

"China will not accept the accusations and pressuring," Mao said.

A spokesperson at the Chinese Embassy in the U.S., Liu Pengyu, also told Reuters that China was not providing weapons to Russia or Ukraine and remained a neutral party.

"We urge the U.S. side to refrain from disparaging and scapegoating the normal relationship between China and Russia," Liu said.

Read also: Reuters: Putin to visit China in May

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Again the New Hampshire House is considering a bill to penalize businesses that participate in boycott and divestment campaigns aimed at ending Israels illegal campaign of occupation and apartheid in Palestine. For hundreds of years, Americans have valued economic activism as protected first amendment speech (and an important nonviolent tool) in protesting injustice at home and abroad.

More recently, Palestinian activistswith Israeli allieshave insisted that boycotts and divestment represent an important sign of hope for meaningful change in their beleaguered homeland. With SB 439 however, our legislature considers banning participating businesses from receiving state funds and contracts, thereby codifying in NH law an executive order signed by Governor Chris Sununu in July 2023. If you care, says this law, and if you act in a principled way on that concern, the state will make you pay.

The Rev. David Grishaw-Jones

As we urge our state representatives to defeat this bill, we should keep two things in mind. First, this bill comes to New Hampshire in just the same way other malicious bills have come: through extreme right wing think tanks (such as the American Legislative Executive Council) spreading legislative mayhem. Their boiler plate legislation is designed to demonize transgender kids and their parents; erase from our schools conversation about racism and colonialism; and limit or completely expunge a womans right to bodily autonomy and choice. We cannot allow such zealots to spread their anti-democratic agenda here in New Hampshirethereby degrading our human rights, and our own democratic traditions and tools. We are better than that.

Second, boycotts shine a critical light on companies that make money (lots of money) by selling high-tech weaponry to facilitate Israels campaign of destruction and starvation in Gaza. Divestment campaigns do the same for companies, like Chevron and Hewlett Packard, that continue to profit from business-as-usual in a blatantly racist system. In the 1980s, activists in the US and elsewhere proved that boycott and divestment campaignsshaped by nonviolent practitioners and traditionswere essential and effective in calling the worlds attention to apartheid in South Africa and leveraging significant democratic reform. That work is not finished; but nonviolence offers devastated communities their best chance at sustained progress.

Im proud to say that our United Church of Christa denomination with deep roots in New Hampshirehas supported boycott and divestment campaigns like these for many years. Recently, we recommitted our efforts to working with other nonprofits, religious communities and peace groups to boycott companies complicit in Israels ethnic cleansing of Palestine. We deplore violence. We insist on nonviolence. And we believe that economic activism is critically important to oppressed movements for justice and liberationin Palestine and around the world.

The Rev. David Grishaw-Jones is Pastor of the Community Church of Durham, a congregation of the United Church of Christ, and serves on the Steering Committee for the United Church of Christ Palestine Israel Network.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Rev. Grishaw-Jones: Should New Hampshire really penalize nonviolence?
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his running mate, Nicole Shanahan, are set to hold their first event together in two weeks, the campaign confirmed to The Hill.

The virtual event, titled Kennedy-Shanahan Vision for Healthy People, Healthy Planet, is slated to take place on April 22. The duo will be joined by three other panelists, including authors Vandana Shiva and Charles Eisenstein, along with environmental activist and non-profit director Ryland Engelhart.

They will explore how they will safeguard our water, air, soil, and the natural world, and why protecting the environment is essential to protecting the health of Americans, according to the event description.

Kennedy selected Shanahan to join his ticket late last month, but the Silicon Valley attorney has not participated in his campaign events thus far.

She has been active on social media, sharing some of her views on health care and immigration. She also shared a recent podcast appearance.

Shanahan visited the southern border in Yuma, Ariz., last week, posting a video on social media platform X.

Ill be honest: I didnt understand the gravity of the crisis at the border until today when I sat with NGO leaders who are on the front lines in Yuma Arizona, she wrote. This is a human trafficking crisis impacting the lives of millions. The good people of Yuma are shouldering the costs.

This should not be a political issue because maintaining a border is a fundamental duty of a sovereign nation, Shanahan continued. Doesnt matter what your political party is  this is your job if youre in government.

American Values 2024, the super PAC backing Kennedys bid, said they hope to feature both the independent candidate and Shanahan at events starting in May. The group already hosted Kennedy last week for two fundraisers in Florida, PAC head Tony Lyons told The Hill Wednesday.

Combined with the California fundraiser that occurred right after Shanahan was picked to run as vice president, the outside group has raised $2.7 million across the three events, Lyons said.

The outside groups next fundraiser will be in Dallas, where around 25 donors are expected to attend. It is also expected to release a 30-minute ad in the next two weeks, he told The Hill.

Telling the whole Bobby Kennedy story to people who dont know it, Lyons added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Black voter engagement director for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s presidential campaign posted  and then scrubbed  a homophobic attack against the founder of a Black conservative group.

On Wednesday, Angela Stanton King, who has been working with Kennedy's campaign for months, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram to attack Diante Johnson, who hosted former President Donald Trump at a gala event for the Black Conservative Federation in South Carolina in February.

In a screenshot of the Instagram post shared with POLITICO, Stanton King called Johnson an open flaming Feminine closet Gay. She then continued in the caption: How is he gonna lead heterosexual black men to the Republican Party?

The post, which was on X and then shared as a screenshot on Instagram, was time-stamped April 10 at about 6 p.m. Both have since been deleted.

Stanton Kings post continues a pattern of behavior from Kennedys consultants that has drawn negative attention and forced the campaign to respond. These issues could turn off donors and volunteers.

Stanton King has run Kennedys Black engagement outreach, including organizing multiple events for him in Atlanta with community leaders at the members-only Commerce Club and a roundtable video at rapper Killer Mikes barber shop. She has appeared in a campaign video alongside Kennedy, and she was an opening speaker at Kennedys vice presidential announcement event in March. All told, she has been paid $30,000 for campaign consulting by the Kennedy operation.

Johnson is the president of the Black Conservative Federation and previously served as Trumps North Carolina field director and as a member of the Black Voices for Trump Advisory Board during the 2020 campaign.



The Kennedy campaign and Stanton King did not respond to a request for comment.

Johnson declined to comment. But a person familiar with the post, granted anonymity to discuss the sensitive attack, confirmed that Johnson saw the social media post.

Stanton Kings deleted posts come at a time when Kennedys campaign has also been asked to respond to issues related to other consultants.

The campaigns New York state director Rita Palma drew backlash for promoting the idea that Trump supporters should back Kennedy to hurt President Joe Biden in blue states. And last week, another staffer wrote in a fundraising email that those arrested in connection to the Jan. 6 insurrection were stripped of their Constitutional liberties.

The campaign later said both situations came from contractors and not staffers, and the campaign said it severed ties with both. Though Palma said she plans to continue volunteeringfor the campaign.

During the last presidential cycle, Stanton King emerged as a vocal Trump supporter following a presidential pardon she received in 2020 for charges related to a car theft ring. But she no longer supports Republicans, telling POLITICO in a January interview, that the party was not sufficiently pro-life or pro-Black.

On Instagram earlier this week, Stanton King posted a Newsmax story headline screenshot about Melania Trump hosting a GOP LGBT fundraiser and wrote in the caption, I love Trump but hear me out, someone said if the babies at [her nonprofit] were Gay and not Black we may have gotten Republican support.

On social media, Stanton King frequently promotes Kennedy in addition to posts advocating against abortion access. Stanton King runs a charity in Atlanta supporting women who choose not to have abortions.

She previously posted a video of Kennedy saying every abortion is a tragedy though he doesnt support any legal action to ban the procedure. She added the caption that his comment made [her] day and Were making progress!

Following the announcement of Nicole Shanahan as Kennedys running mate, she also posted Nicole Shanahan and I dont agree on Abortion but we do agree on Criminal Justice Reform. Thats what the INDEPENDENT space is all about. She did not elaborate about which policies she and Shanahan are aligned on.
RFK Jr. reminds me of Ralph Nader. And yes, this Kennedy would help Donald Trump | Opinion

On Lets Make a Deal, either a dream vacation or a worthless zonk  a goat on a rope, say, or a trip to nowhere  might be behind Door No. 3.

But in November, we already know whats behind Door No. 3: Its the same as whats behind Door No. 2, and thats four (or more) years of the man who has called for the termination of our Constitution, Donald Trump.

The independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sometimes echoes Trumps talking points  about Jan. 6, the border, Tony Fauci and Joe Biden. Kennedy has repeatedly called Biden a bigger threat to democracy than Trump.

Only, Trump supporters have shown that they cannot be swayed no matter what their man says or does, whereas Biden voters clearly can.

Kennedy has said many outrageous things over the years. After 9/11, he told us that pig farmers were a bigger threat to the U.S. than Osama bin Laden. Last summer, he said COVID-19 was engineered to attack Caucasians and Black people and spare Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese. In December, he called Palestinians the arguably most pampered people by international aid organizations in the history of the world.

There is a reason Kennedys own siblings have called his presidential bid dangerous to our country, and its that they know him.

Kennedy is polling at about 8%, and could easily swing the tight race that this will be one way or the other. Which way has been hard to call, since his position on issues is all over the place  and I dont mean squarely in the center, either. Polling shows that what most unites Kennedy supporters is disdain for both Trump and Biden.

But the younger voters Biden needs to win are not supporting him, while older, whiter and wealthier voters are both more likely to turn out and more likely to support Trump.

Some Democrats are reassured by the wishful notion that Kennedy would surely pull more votes from Trump since his anti-vaccine and other conspiratorial views are considered more MAGA. But anti-vaccine views have long found a home on the he left, too, and some conspiracy theories do appeal to progressives.

A 2022 study from scholars at the University of Louisville, Carleton College, the University of Delaware, the University of Miami, Colorado State and the University of Nottingham in the U.K. points to evidence that alternative theories about the moon landing, fluoridated water, Freemasons and lizard people  alas, even lizard people  are equally popular on the right and left.

Nader: GOP threat to Roe v. Wade a scare tactic

Though far less tethered to reality than 2000 Green Party candidate Ralph Nader, Kennedy says some things that do remind me of Nader, another environmentalist who insisted that there were few major differences between the two major parties.

Nader argued that wed barely be able to tell the difference if we elected Democrat Al Gore or Republican George W. Bush that year. And the millions who died in our forever wars in the 20 years after 9/11 arent here to argue otherwise, are they?

On the eve of that 2000 election, Nader told me in an interview that he did not think there would be any discernible difference between the justices Gore and Bush would appoint, either. He called the possibility that a court packed with Republican appointees could overturn Roe v. Wade a scare tactic and mused that a Bush victory might even be better for the planet: A bumbling Texas governor would galvanize the environmental community as never before.

So I cant say Im too surprised that Timothy Mellon, one of the biggest donors to Kennedys super PAC, is also a major Trump donor. Nor am I astonished that a New York campaign consultant for Kennedy, Rita Palma, said getting rid of Biden was her No. 1 priority in 2024. (She was fired after a video of those remarks made news.)

It only makes sense, as The New York Times recently reported, that Trump allies are boosting Kennedys effort; why wouldnt they?

They plan to promote the independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a champion for choice to give voters for whom abortion is a top issue  and who also dont like Mr. Biden  another option on the ballot, the Times story said.

They also intend to amplify the environmentalism of Kennedy and expected Green Party candidate Jill Stein in areas where that could hurt Biden, and are discussing running ads in Dearborn, Mich., and other parts of the state with large Muslim populations that would thank Mr. Biden for standing with Israel, heh-heh-heh.

Kennedy promotes pro-Putin, anti-Ukraine rhetoric

Theres nothing so unusual about a politician promoting a rival who can help him win. Its what Missouri Democrat Claire McCaskill, then an incumbent U.S. senator, did in boosting Republican Todd Akins primary bid in 2012.

McCaskill later bragged in a memoir that she had successfully manipulated the Republican primary so that in the general election I would face the candidate I was most likely to beat. After Akins doofus comments about how rape victims cant get pregnant  If its a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down  she won easily.

After hearing RFK Jr. speak in Kansas City back in December, I came away particularly appalled by his Trumpish pro-Putin and anti-Ukraine rhetoric.

He also said COVID-19 vaccines had killed more people than they saved, which is rubbish, and suggested that the pandemic was a corporate conspiracy designed to put mom-and-pop stores out of business. Wait, so it wasnt a racist plot after all?

maganYet I also came away convinced that at least in that moment and in this place, he would be taking more votes away from Biden than Trump.

A handful of people is not a poll, but of the 10 people who told me that evening that they were definitely supporting Kennedy, nine voted for Biden last time, and the other one voted for neither of the major party nominees.

One woman told me that she does believe that if Trump is reelected, our democracy will die. Yet as a lifelong Democrat, she likes that her choice is a Kennedy, and wont in any case vote for Biden again because youve got to know when to quit.

Others cited Kennedys refreshing honesty, though much of what he said was counterfactual, and his inspiring promise to end the chronic disease epidemic in this country, which he blames on Big Pharma.

Trump has reportedly fantasized about putting Kennedy on his ticket, mostly because of how cool he thinks Trump-Kennedy would look on a bumper sticker. Thats not a course I would consider, Kennedy said, though Im flattered by the thought.

Too flattered, and like Nader before him, too willing to let his ego undermine everything he ever worked for.

Naders monumental previous accomplishments still stand: He made cars far safer, and deserves considerable credit for pushing for legislation including the Clean Water Act, Consumer Product Safety Act, Freedom of Information Act and Whistleblower Protection Act.

Every time I file a FOIA request, though, I think of him both to say thanks and thanks for nothing.

Kennedy has done some great things, too, like negotiating the 1997 New York City Watershed Memorandum of Agreement, which protects upstate New Yorks reservoirs and as a result, the citys drinking water.

But if he ends up ushering in the era of retribution and authoritarian loyalty tests that Trump has promised, few will remember that the third of Bobby and Ethel Kennedys 11 children helped clean up the Hudson River.
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Police are seeking additional victims of a robbery crew operating in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, authorities announced on Thursday.

According to a news release from the Los Angeles Police Department, two victims were lured into an apartment in the 2900 block of North Main Street on April 9 by a woman they had met on social media.

Once inside, two male suspects came out of hiding and, at gunpoint, demanded property from the victims. Authorities added that one of the victims was pistol-whipped by a suspect.

During the investigation, it was determined that the suspects had used this same scheme to entrap other robbery victims in the past, police said.

Two of the suspects, identified as 26-year-old Sergio Carrillo and 23-year-old Magdalena Gallegos, both residents of L.A., were arrested on Wednesday and are being held on $100,000 bail.

SoCal robbery crew used social media to snare victims

Authorities said they are working to identify and arrest the third suspect.

Investigators strongly believe there are additional, unreported victims of Carrillo and Gallegos, police said. Photographs of these suspects are being released to identify and speak with those victims.

Woman killed, set on fire in unsolved homicide in Southern California

Those who may have been victimized by these suspects or who may have information about this investigation are urged to contact LAPDs Hollenbeck Detective Salas at 323-342-8956. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or submit tips online at L.A. Crime Stoppers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
FILE - This Feb. 1978 photo shows Robert MacNeil, executive editor of "The MacNeil/Lehrer Report". MacNeil, who created the even-handed, no-frills PBS newscast The MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour in the 1970s and co-anchored the show for with his late partner, Jim Lehrer, for two decades, died on Friday, April 12, 2024. He was 93. (AP Photo/FILE)

NEW YORK (AP)  Robert MacNeil, who created the even-handed, no-frills PBS newscast The MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour in the 1970s and co-anchored the show with his late partner, Jim Lehrer, for two decades, died on Friday. He was 93.

MacNeil died of natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, according to his daughter, Alison MacNeil.

MacNeil first gained prominence for his coverage of the Senate Watergate hearings for the public broadcasting service and began his half-hour Robert MacNeil Report on PBS in 1975 with his friend Lehrer as Washington correspondent.

The broadcast became the MacNeil-Lehrer Report and then, in 1983, was expanded to an hour and renamed the MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour. The nation's first one-hour evening news broadcast, and recipient of several Emmy and Peabody awards, it remains on the air today with Geoff Bennett and Amna Nawaz as anchors.

It was MacNeils and Lehrers disenchantment with the style and content of rival news programs on ABC, CBS and NBC that led to the programs creation.

We dont need to SELL the news, MacNeil told the Chicago Tribune in 1983. The networks hype the news to make it seem vital, important. Whats missing (in 22 minutes) is context, sometimes balance, and a consideration of questions that are raised by certain events.

MacNeil left anchoring duties at NewsHour after two decades in 1995 to write full time. Lehrer took over the newscast alone, and he remained there until 2009. Lehrer died in 2020.

When MacNeil visited the show in October 2005 to commemorate its 30th anniversary, he reminisced about how their newscast started in the days before cable television.

It was a way to do something that seemed to be needed journalistically and yet was different from what the commercial network news (programs) were doing, he said.

MacNeil wrote several books, including two memoirs The Right Place at the Right Time and the best seller Wordstruck, and the novels Burden of Desire and The Voyage.

Writing is much more personal. It is not collaborative in the way that television must be, MacNeil told The Associated Press in 1995. But when youre sitting down writing a novel, its just you: Heres what I think, heres what I want to do. And its me.

MacNeil also created the Emmy-winning 1986 series The Story of English, with the MacNeil-Lehrer production company, and was co-author of the companion book of the same name.

Another book on language that he co-wrote, Do You Speak American?, was adapted into a PBS documentary in 2005.

In 2007, he served as host of America at a Crossroads, a six-night PBS package exploring challenges confronting the United States in a post-9/11 world.

Six years before the 9/11 attacks, discussing sensationalism and frivolity in the news business, he had said: If something really serious did happen to the nation  a stock market crash like 1929, ... the equivalent of a Pearl Harbor  wouldnt the news get very serious again? Wouldnt people run from `Hard Copy and titillation?

Of course you would. Youd have to know what was going on.

That was the case  for a while.

Born in Montreal in 1931, MacNeil was raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and graduated from Carleton University in Ottawa in 1955 before moving to London where he began his journalism career with Reuters. He switched to TV news in 1960, taking a job with NBC in London as a foreign correspondent.

In 1963, MacNeil was transferred to NBCs Washington bureau, where he reported on Civil Rights and the White House. He covered the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas and spent most of 1964 following the presidential campaign between Kennedys successor, Lyndon Johnson, and Republican Barry Goldwater.

In 1965, MacNeil became the New York anchor of the first half-hour weekend network news broadcast, The Scherer-MacNeil Report on NBC. While in New York, he also anchored local newscasts and several NBC news documentaries, including The Big Ear and The Right to Bear Arms.

MacNeil returned to London in 1967 as a reporter for the British Broadcasting Corp.s Panorama series. While with the BBC, be covered such U.S. stories as the clash between anti-war demonstrators and the Chicago police at the 1968 Democratic Convention, and the funerals of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Sen. Robert Kennedy and President Dwight Eisenhower.

In 1971, MacNeil left the BBC to become a senior correspondent for PBS, where he teamed up with Lehrer to co-anchor public televisions Emmy-winning coverage of the Senate Watergate hearings in 1973.

___

Associated Press media writer David Bauder in New York contributed to this report.
Robert MacNeil Dies: Longtime PBS MacNeil/Lehrer Report Co-Anchor Was 93

Robert MacNeil, the veteran PBS newsman who co-founded and co-hosted the long-running PBS NewsHour and MacNeil/Lehrer Report with Jim Lehrer, died today of natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. He was 93.

His death was announced by PBS NewsHour broadcaster Judy Woodruff, and confirmed to the Associated Press by his daughter Alison MacNeil.

More from Deadline

I am devastated at the passing of a dear friend and someone who helped transform American television news, Robin MacNeil, tweeted Woodruff, using MacNeils nickname. He and Jim Lehrer were partners in creating the iconic @NewsHour on @PBS and it was the honor of my life to work with and learn from them.

Two years after teaming in 1973 on Emmy-winning coverage of the Senate Watergate hearings, MacNeil and Lehrer solidified their partnership in 1975 with the 30-minute PBS news program that soon would bear their names. Lehrer died in 2020 at age 85.

Unlike other newscasts, The MacNeil/Lehrer Report focused on one story per day, taking a deeper dive beyond the headlines. Their approach and execution would earn them considerable accolades, including News Emmys and a Peabody Award.

The title of the show  and its length  changed in 1983 to The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour, considered to be the nations first hourlong evening newscast. With the expansion to 60 minutes, the program branched beyond the single-topic approach. It was the predecessor to what is now the PBS NewsHour.

PBS NewsHour co-anchors Geoff Bennett and Amna Nawaz said in a statement today, Robin was one of a kind. With his distinctive voice, he brought stories to life  unraveling complex issues with clarity and compassion. Whether it was through his incisive reporting or his intimate interviews, he possessed a singular ability to connect with people. As we reflect on his many contributions, we honor his memory by continuing to pursue the truth and by fostering connections that bridge divides  just as Robin did with such grace and vigor. We are deeply grateful for the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Paula Kerger, president and CEO of PBS, said: Robins passing marks the end of an era for PBS, and is a tremendous loss for our country. His work with Jim Lehrer during the Watergate hearings, was profoundly important and groundbreaking. In creating the MacNeil/Lehrer Report, and ultimately the NewsHour, Robin and Jim set the standard for excellence in news programming through their focus on the facts and the critically important issues of the day. While we mourn his death, we honor his life and work by building on his legacy.

Robert Breckenridge Ware MacNeil was born on January 19, 1931, in Montreal and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. After a brief acting career for the CBC, he moved to London to become a playwright. While there, he signed on to the new network ITV as a reporter. From there, he landed a job as an editor at Reuters.

He joined NBC News in 1960, working as a London-based correspondent. In 1963, he was transferred to the networks Washington bureau, where he covered the Civil Rights Movement and the White House, among other beats. Within five years he was co-anchoring a 30-minute weekend news broadcast with Ray Scherer.

After his work at NBC and, briefly, the BBC, he joined PBS in 1971 as a correspondent. Two years later, his national profile increased considerably with the award-winning coverage of the Watergate hearings. After retiring in 1995 from the nightly news program, MacNeil periodically would return to PBS, most notably hosting the 2007 PBS docuseries America at a Crossroads.

He is survived by sons Ian MacNeil, a Tony Award-winning Billy Elliot: The Musical theatrical set designer, and Will MacNeil; daughters Cathy MacNeil and Alison MacNeil; and five grandchildren.

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Robert MacNeil, the trusted son of a Canadian naval officer who spent two decades alongside Jim Lehrer delivering the nightly news to PBS viewers, died Friday, PBS announced. He was 93.

MacNeil died of natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, his daughter, Alison MacNeil, told the Associated Press.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

MacNeil and Lehrer first teamed to cover the Senate Watergate hearings in 1973, and their live coverage earned them an Emmy. In 1975, they launched a half-hour program that would become The MacNeil/Lehrer Report; it covered a single story in depth and collected more than 30 awards, including a Peabody, a DuPont and several Emmys.

The program in 1983 became The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour, the nations first 60-minute evening news program. Rather than concentrate on one topic, it provided comprehensive coverage and analysis of the days important stories.

On the eve of his retirement from the broadcast in October 1995 to concentrate on writing, he was asked why TheMacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour gave very little coverage to the O.J. Simpson story.

We dont normally cover big murder stories, for one thing  It is inconceivable to me that a generation ago, NBC News and CBS News would night after night have said to their audience, This is the most important thing that happened in the world today, by leading with Simpson and coming back to it later in the program, he told the Los Angeles Times. Whats interesting to me is how frightened the mainstream media are of the tabloid shows and the new networks.

On the morning of Nov. 22, 1963, MacNeil, then the No. 2 White House correspondent for NBC, was in President Kennedys motorcade in Dallas, sitting in the front row of a press bus about six vehicles behind the limousine in which the president and first lady were riding.

I had this daydream that somebody took a shot, fired a shot, and I got out of the bus and chased the person who fired the shot, he recalled in a 2000 interview for the website The Interviews: The Oral History of Television. And then I woke up and said, Cmon, get real.'

When he really did hear shots, MacNeil rushed out of the bus and followed policemen up a hill who were searching for the shooter. A few frantic minutes later, he asked a man outside the Texas School Book Depository building if he knew where he could grab a phone; that man quite possibly was assassin Lee Harvey Oswald.

After Kennedy was taken to Parkland Memorial Hospital, MacNeil managed to commandeer one of two pay phones in an anteroom and fed NBC anchormen Chet Huntley and David Brinkley updates all day. I said to a priest, If you delivered the last rites, does that mean hes dead?' he remembered, and he [responded], I delivered the last rites. Thats all he would say.

Robert Breckenridge Ware MacNeil  friends called him Robin  was born in Montreal on Jan. 19, 1931, the oldest of three sons. His father, Robert, served in the Royal Canadian Navy, and his mother, Margaret, was a housewife.

MacNeil was raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and wanted a career in the theater. For the CBC, he acted in radio productions like The Count of Monte Cristo, did some reporting and served as a national announcer before graduating from Carleton University in Ottawa in 1955.

He moved to London to write plays and made ends meet by working for three months as a reporter for fledgling network ITV, then joined the Reuters wire service, where he stayed for five years as an editor.

MacNeil moved to television in 1960 as an NBC News London-based correspondent and covered the civil war in Algeria, the construction of the Berlin Wall and the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1963, he was sent to NBCs Washington bureau to report on the civil rights movement and to help cover the White House.

MacNeil and Ray Scherer anchored a half-hour weekend news broadcast on NBC starting in 1965, and he anchored local newscasts and NBC News documentaries including Whose Right to Bear Arms. In 1967, he returned to London, this time to report for the BBCs Panorama program, then began at PBS in 1971 as a senior correspondent and then host of Washington Week in Review.

It wasnt all serious for MacNeil; he appeared a few times on the PBS sister program Sesame Street, once posing probing questions to Cookie Monster (represented by his attorney, Kermit) about a Cookiegate scandal.

MacNeil wrote several books, including 1968s The People Machine, which studied the relationship between television and politics, three memoirs and three novels. He also was the co-author of 1992s The Story of English, a companion volume to a BBC-PBS series he hosted (he won a Primetime Emmy for that), and its 2005 sequel, Do You Speak American?

He became a U.S. citizen in 1997, the same year he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada for being one of the most respected journalists of our time. Two years later, he and Lehrer were inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame.

MacNeil was married three times and had four children, including Tony-winning scenic designer Ian MacNeil (An Inspector Calls, Billy Elliot: The Musical, Angels in America).

PBS NewsHour senior correspondent and former anchor and managing editor Judy Woodruff paid tribute to MacNeil. I am devastated at the passing of a dear friend and someone who helped transform American television news, she tweeted. He and Jim Lehrer were partners in creating the iconic @NewsHour on @PBS and it was the honor of my life to work with and learn from them.

PBS NewsHour co-anchors Geoff Bennett and Amna Nawaz added: Robin was one of a kind. With his distinctive voice, he brought stories to life  unraveling complex issues with clarity and compassion. Whether it was through his incisive reporting or his intimate interviews, he possessed a singular ability to connect with people. As we reflect on his many contributions, we honor his memory by continuing to pursue the truth and by fostering connections that bridge divides  just as Robin did with such grace and vigor. We are deeply grateful for the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Asked by Charlie Rose in 1995 what he earned from Lehrer during their long association, MacNeil replied: I came out of the school of television interviewing where one asked questions partly to demonstrate how much one knew, he said. I learned from Jim to ask much better questions, like What does that mean? or I dont understand or Have you answered the question? Or simply, Why? People hate being asked why.

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Robert Robin MacNeil, co-anchor and co-founder of PBS NewsHour, died April 12, PBS announced. He was 93

MacNeil died Friday morning of natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, his daughter, Alison MacNeil, told the New York Times.

Following their coverage of the 1973 Senate Watergate Hearings, MacNeil co-founded the predecessor to the PBS MacNeil/Lehrer Report in 1975 with fellow anchor Jim Lehrer.

I am so deeply saddened at the loss of a precious friend. One of the greatest honors of my life was working with Robin MacNeil and being part of the way he and Jim Lehrer changed television news, said Judy Woodruff, PBS NewsHour senior correspondent and former anchor and managing editor, in a statement. He was brilliant and urbane, but always with a delightful sense of irony. Im so grateful to have spoken with him in January on his birthday, when that iconic, deep Canadian baritone voice sounded exactly as it had when he last anchored the NewsHour almost 30 years ago.

Robin was one of a kind. With his distinctive voice, he brought stories to life  unraveling complex issues with clarity and compassion, PBS NewsHour co-anchors Geoff Bennett and Amna Nawaz added. Whether it was through his incisive reporting or his intimate interviews, he possessed a singular ability to connect with people. As we reflect on his many contributions, we honor his memory by continuing to pursue the truth and by fostering connections that bridge divides  just as Robin did with such grace and vigor. We are deeply grateful for the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Throughout MacNeils career as an award winning journalist, he interviewed hundreds of national and international newsmakers including Martin Luther King Jr., Ayatollah Khomeini and former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. MacNeil conducted on-the-ground reporting on some of the biggest stories in the U.S., such as the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963.

Known as Robin, he was born in Montreal and was hired for CBC radio productions while still in college. He joined NBC News after five years at Reuters in London, covering the Cuban missile crisis and reportedly having a brush with Lee Harvey Oswald while looking for a phone after President Kennedy was shot. He joined PBS in 1971.

MacNeil authored several books, including four novels, after retiring from PBS.

MacNeil is survived by his children Alison and Will MacNeil, Ian MacNeil, Cathy MacNeil and five grandchildren.

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The impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas is political showbiz, folks. Nothing more. Its a bunch of sound and fury, signifying nothing except the fact that Republicans think they can use immigration as a potent campaign issue against President Joe Biden in November.

Which means  of course  that the impeachment of Mayorkas is very, very important to Roger Marshall and Eric Schmitt.

The two men, U.S. senators from Kansas and Missouri, on Tuesday took part in a press conference demanding that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer hold a Senate trial for Mayorkas when the U.S. House gets around to sending over the articles of impeachment, expected sometime in the next few days. (On Thursday, the regions other two senators  Jerry Moran of Kansas and Josh Hawley of Missouri  signed onto a GOP letter repeating the demand.)

Schmitt, bless him, at least tried to make the case that matters of grand principle are involved.

Two hundred years from now, people will look back  senators who we dont know their names, sitting in seats in that chamber  will look back to what happens in the next seven days, he said. And it will set a course for the rest of American history. Because theres no going back. Once you break the seal here, there will be no impeachment trials ever again.

Marshall, meanwhile, barely bothered to disguise his political motives.

Immigration, he said, is so toxic to Senate Democrats to House Democrats and to Joe Biden that they do not want this to be the issue of the day, he said. But my hope is that the good people in Montana and Ohio, Wisconsin, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania that they hold their senators accountable this November.

Those are Democratic senators, in case you didnt get the gist.

Marshall might be right about the political importance of immigration. Voters are pretty concerned about the issue. But the arguments for impeaching Mayorkas  and holding a trial in the Senate  are nonsense.

Why? Because Mayorkas hasnt committed a high crime or misdemeanor. You know, the constitutional standard for impeachment. His only so-called crime is that he is the face of a Biden administrations immigration policy. And punishing policy differences is not what impeachment is for.

Its not like Mayorkas incited an insurrection at the Capitol.

Indeed, the case against the Homeland Security chief is so weak that Republicans havent been able to get all their colleagues on board. It took GOP leaders two tries in the House to affirm the articles of impeachment  and Rep. Ken Buck, a conservative Republican from Colorado, was so disgusted by the process he promptly resigned from Congress.

Weve taken impeachment and weve made it a social media issue as opposed to a constitutional concept, Buck said.

Social media issue is just the 21st way of saying showbiz. No wonder Schumer is reportedly interested in dismissing the charges without holding a trial.

The problem? Fox News reported this week a dozen or so pro-impeachment Republicans are planning to bring business in the Senate to a halt if they dont get their impeachment trial. The real work of the Senate would be deferred and delayed for the sake of a performative political stunt.

But that work includes making policy, or ought to anyway. If our GOP senators really wanted American immigration policy to change  if they wanted Biden to crack down on migrants coming across the southern border  they could have backed a get-tough immigration bill negotiated last month by their fellow conservative senator, James Lankford of Oklahoma. Biden, youll recall, said he would sign that proposal into law.

Instead, all four Republican senators from Kansas and Missouri opposed the bill.

Thats probably because Donald Trump came out against the effort  and did so because he saw that actually solving the immigration problem would deprive him of an issue against Biden in November.

That means the GOP call for a trial is a way of signaling to voters that theyre doing something about immigration without actually doing something about immigration.

Thats showbiz, baby.

Joel Mathis is a regular Kansas City Star and Wichita Eagle Opinion correspondent. He lives in Lawrence with his wife and son. Formerly a writer and editor at Kansas newspapers, he served nine years as a syndicated columnist.
ROLAND, Okla. (KNWA/KFTA)  A Roland man was sentenced to 19 years in prison for attacking a man with an electric saw, according to a news release from the United States Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

Morgan Cameron Blanton-Barnes, 24, was sentenced to 235 months for one count of maiming in Indian Country and 188 months for first-degree burglary. The release said the sentences will be served concurrently.

Blanton-Barnes pleaded guilty to the charges on Dec. 14, 2022. Investigators said on April 23, 2022, Blanton-Barnes broke into the victims home while he was asleep and attacked him with an electric saw.

Five Arkansans indicted in Oklahoma for allegedly conspiring to distribute meth

The victim suffered lacerations to the back of their skull and both hands.

The facts of this case are shocking, and the sentence imposed is a clear message that the justice system will hold violent offenders accountable for their heinous crimes, U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson said in the release.

The release says that Stevenson will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending transportation to a United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve his sentence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law today that will prohibit bystanders from getting too close to police and other first responders.

The legislation, Senate Bill 184, makes it a second-degree misdemeanor to approach within 25 feet of a first responder after receiving a verbal warning to stay away. The law includes a requirement of intent to interfere, threaten, or harass the first responder who is in the course of his duties.

It also prohibits harassment of first responders. The law defines harassment as conduct "which intentionally causes substantial emotional distress in that first responder and serves no legitimate purpose."

Similar laws with smaller buffer zones have been struck down by courts in other states, but DeSantis portrayed the law as part of Florida's prolaw enforcement atmosphere.

"I am proud to support the men and women of law enforcement throughout the state," DeSantis said at the bill signing, where he also signed legislation limiting the power of civilian police oversight boards. "Today's legislation will ensure law enforcement can do their jobs without the threat of harassment. While blue states vilify and defund the police, Florida will continue to be the friendliest state in the nation towards our law enforcement community."

State legislators began introducing bills restricting the ability to film the police in places like South Carolina and Florida as backlash to the George Floyd protests of 2020. Supporters of the legislation, such as police unions, argue that officers shouldn't have to deal with bystanders getting in their faces when they're performing arrests or investigations.

However, the right to observe and film police has been upheld by multiple federal appeals courts as a fundamental First Amendment activity, and civil liberties groups and press organizations argue that such laws are overly broad and chill the free speech rights of citizens and reporters.

Last July, a federal judge struck down an Arizona law restricting how closely people may film police, ruling that the law violates a core First Amendment right to record law enforcement officers.

U.S. District Judge for the District of Arizona John J. Tuchi wrote that the Arizona law, which made it a misdemeanor offense to film a police officer within 8 feet after receiving a verbal warning, "prohibits or chills a substantial amount of First Amendment protected activity and is unnecessary to prevent interference with police officers given other Arizona laws in effect."

Florida press freedom groups find similar faults with the new law.

"These are highly subjective terms which we believe will have a chilling effect on journalists' and citizens' First Amendment rights to observe and record the activities of responders at work," Bobby Block, executive director of Florida's First Amendment Foundation, told the Orlando Sentinel. "Similar laws have been struck down by the courts as being unconstitutional for this reason."

The post Ron DeSantis Signs Florida Bill Limiting How Close Bystanders Can Get to Police appeared first on Reason.com.
Las Vegas(KLAS)-An aquatic-themed fundraiser to support the Discovery Childrens Museum is set for April 21st at Durango Resorts and Casino from 1pm to 4pm.

The event will include raffles and fun activities for all ages.

Discovery Childrens Museum is a nonprofit organization that has been in the community for more than 33 years.

For more information and tickets, go to discoverykidslv.org.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Big banks on Wall Street could pull back hiring plans as they lean more heavily on AI.

New junior analyst hires could end up being cut by as much as two-thirds, sources told the New York Times.

Banks have already been exploring AI software under nicknames, sources said.

Incoming junior Wall Street analysts could be in danger of losing their jobs to AI, sources within banks told the New York Times.

Big firms are reportedly mulling whether to pull back on hiring new analysts as Wall Street leans more heavily on AI, several people familiar with the matter at Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and other banks told the publication this week.

Incoming classes of junior investment-banking analysts could up being cut as much as two-thirds, some of the people suggested, while those brought on board could fetch lower salaries, on account of their work being assisted by artificial intelligence.

"The easy idea is you just replace juniors with an AI tool," Christoph Rabenseifner, the chief strategy officer for technology, data, and innovation at Deutsche Bank, told the Times, though he noted it would still be necessary to keep human staff.

Banks have already been testing AI software, employing them under monikers like "Socrates," the report found.

A Goldman Sachs representative told Business Insider the bank was still in the "early stages" of exploring AI technology, adding that it was "pleased" with the results it had seen so far. But scaling back hiring is out of the picture at the moment:

"We have no current plans to alter our incoming analyst classes as a result of these efforts," the spokesperson said.

Deutsche Bank told Business Insider it was too early to comment on any potential job cuts. Morgan Stanley did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Some finance-industry executives have publicly hinted at a future shift in the workplace. JPMorgan boss Jamie Dimon said artificial intelligence had the potential to "reduce certain job categories or roles" in his annual letter to shareholders.

BlackRock chief Larry Fink told the Financial Times last year that AI had "huge potential" to raise worker productivity, later adding that the asset manager was spending a "huge amount of time" on artificial intelligence.

Further, Goldman Sachs has estimated that around 300 million workers could be significantly impacted by AI, while a McKinsey report found that 12 million workers could be completely displaced by AI by 2030.

The consulting firm Accenture has an even more extreme outlook for industry disruption, forecasting that AI could end up replacing or supplementing nearly 75% of all working hours in the banking sector.

Story continues

"AI will enable us to do tasks that take 10 hours in 10 seconds," JPMorgan's head of investment banking Jay Horine told the Times, speaking of Wall Street analysts. "My hope and belief is it will allow the job to be more interesting."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Are RPD rules on juvenile use of force working? City blocks records for PAB analysis

As a teenager, Freemonta Strong sat across from city police officers in discussion circles that tried to break down stereotypes and improve police-youth relations in Rochester. Nearly a decade later, in March 2024, Strong found himself revisiting the same conversation about bias and excessive force by police.

An investigation by the Police Accountability Board looked at 318 incidents over a year and a half where Rochester police officers pressed their knees into childrens backs, held juveniles at gunpoint or used other physical techniques to subdue and restrain them.

Black children made up nearly 80% of all recent cases where RPD used force on the citys young people, according to the report.

Strong was not surprised by the agencys findings.

This time, though, the conversation ahead of him carried more weight: His 4-year-old son was sitting in the audience of the PAB panel where Strong was speaking as a representative from Teen Empowerment. The boy was mostly oblivious to what was going on around him, tapping through games on a tablet while snacking on gummies shaped like Coke bottles.

But to the adults in the room, he represented the future: How do they create a reality where they can trust he wont experience police violence?

We already are fearful of the police, Strong said. He wants to believe that if his son ever comes face-to-face with an officer, that they would approach the boy with compassion and help  not force. But after the recent PAB report, he feels vulnerable.

The Police Accountability Board held a community panel on March 28, 2024 to discuss its recent investigation into police use of force on juveniles. Shanterra Mitchum, center, said the PAB data was important to highlight behavior and biases RPD may not actively track.

PAB: Incomplete RPD records impede investigations, accountability

The Rochester Police Department implemented a new juvenile use of force policy in December 2021, months after RPD officers pepper-sprayed a handcuffed 9-year-old girl in the back of a police cruiser.

The incident drew community outrage. The officers involved were not disciplined because, at the time, their actions did not violate RPD policy.

The new policy placed restrictions on how and when officers may use pepper spray, Tasers and impact weapons like batons on juveniles, advised them to use de-escalation tactics in calls involving young people and warned that children might not immediately comply with their commands due to fear or lack of understanding.

RPD Juvenile Use of Force: Police pepper-sprayed a 9-year-old in Rochester in 2021. What happened to investigation?

Members of Community Justice Initiative along with supporters marched Feb. 1, 2021 from N. Clinton Avenue and Ave. D in Rochester, NY to the Rochester Police Department's Clinton Section at N. Clinton Ave. and Upper Falls Boulevard to protest the police handcuffing and using pepper spray on a 9-year-old girl.

Its unclear, however, whether the policy has reduced rates of juvenile use of force in Rochester  even after the PAB investigation  because the city has refused to release records needed for a comparative analysis.

'Impractical' to share police records with the public?

PAB investigators said they requested juvenile use of force reports dating back to 2018. The citys law department denied their request, calling it impractical and time consuming, according to the PAB.

Instead, the city said it would only release data from incidents that took place after the policy change  thereby limiting the scope of the oversight agencys investigation.

Without the older records, the PAB said it could not evaluate whether the policy had any meaningful impact.

A PAB spokesperson said inconsistent access to RPD records remains one of the agencys biggest challenges.

The PAB has started to issue subpoenas for testimony from RPD officers and said the recent hiring of an in-house attorney will give the agency more teeth in its fight for information.

These delays and refusals lead to hindered case resolutions, and as we saw in Juvenile Use of Force, the inability to fully analyze data and information related to RPD policies, practices or procedures, the spokesperson said in an email. But we are not giving up.

More on police oversight: Police Accountability Board can't discipline officers, court says. What's next for PAB?

Malik Evans administration hesitant about reports' release

In a statement, city spokesperson Barbara Pierce said the older records were outside of the PABs jurisdiction, which she defined as the power to investigate current policies and practices.

The current use of force policy was enacted in 2021, so any records previous to that do not reflect current policies or practices and are not within the jurisdiction of the PAB, she said. PABs desire to compare what was happening under former policies versus current policies is comparing apples to oranges.

Pierce said Mayor Malik Evans had read the report and sees value in analyzing use of force data, but said his administration found several data assumptions and extrapolations in the report that they believe require clarity.

Capt. Greg Bello said the PAB report looked at 318 incidents out of over 300,000 calls for service made to RPD  or approximately 0.1%.

Bello said RPD consistently reviews its policies and trainings, oftentimes with input from police advisory groups like the U.S. Department of Justice and the Police Executive Research Forum, to ensure that they reflect or exceed the national standards.

Since the policy was updated, he said there have been no sustained complaints of force involving juveniles and RPD officers. The police agency, however, does not release information about unsubstantiated complaints or how internal investigators clear those cases.

What did the PAB report find?

The PAB investigation focused on 318 cases of juvenile use of force between December 2021 and May 2023. The report found:

RPDs use of force records involved youth between ages 2 and 17.

80% of the incidents involved Black children, mostly Black boys.

60% of the incidents took place in the Clinton and Lake patrol sections. Children in the 14621 ZIP code experienced the most incidents, at 20% of the total.

RPD officers pointed handguns and rifles at or near children in 34% of the incidents analyzed.

PAB investigators classified 30% of the incidents as involving a mental health crisis, though it is unclear what criteria the PAB used to determine that.

Read the full report: PAB investigates juvenile use of force

Members of Community Justice Initiative along with supporters marched Feb. 1, 2021 from N. Clinton Avenue and Ave. D in Rochester to the Rochester Police Department's Clinton Section at N. Clinton Ave. and Upper Falls Boulevard to protest the police handcuffing and using pepper spray on a 9-year-old girl.

Black youth treated like threatening adults, not children, advocate says

Candice Lucas, the vice president for equity and advocacy at the Urban League of Rochester, said the report demonstrated a common bias playing out in Rochester policing, where Black youth are not treated with the same compassion as other children, but rather seen as older, as more threatening, as inherently criminal, as dangerous.

Other panelists and attendees called for RPD to provide more training for officers on how to handle a mental health crisis or approach young people.

Shanterra Mitchum, program director of Teen Empowerment, said the PAB data was important to show behavior that RPD may not have been actively tracking.

When you are not aware, you do damage, she said. You destroy communities. You destroy young people. You destroy everything. It takes a conscious effort to become aware of your implicit bias.

PAB Town Hall: Juvenile Use of Force https://t.co/H4hdBb52ha  Rochester Police Accountability Board (@RochesterPAB) March 28, 2024

Several youth organizers from Teen Empowerment were at the event, including panelist Lianny Rodriguez, who said the organization is transformative for young people because it gives them a safe space to grow up.

The youth that be in the streets, on corners, selling drugs, robbing places, they dont have anywhere to go, Rodriguez said. They dont got nobody to talk to  and theyre afraid of cops. But if a police officer were to walk up to one of them and actually try to create a bond with them  theyll see that were not bad kids. Were just people who need help.

One attendee, Jamella James, turned to those youth and called on them to push for change on an issue that directly impacts them.

The veil is broken, James said. You can actually do something, publish something, say something thats going to matter, thats going to last

She paused and pointed to Strongs 4-year-old son.

 so that that young man doesnt have to sit in (your) chair, talking to these people about the same old thing.

 Kayla Canne reports on community justice and safety efforts for the Democrat and Chronicle. Follow her on Twitter @kaylacanne and @bykaylacanne on Instagram. Get in touch at kcanne@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: PAB investigation looks at how police treat juveniles in Rochester NY
NOTE: A lawsuit represents only one side of a story.

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Ruby Frankes husband, Kevin Franke, filed a lawsuit against Jodi Hildebrandt Thursday, April 11, citing emotional distress and negligence for him and his children.

Based on the facts outlined in the complaint, the three causes of action are intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and negligence.

Kevin Franke is seeking judgment for past, present, and future special damages, along with pain and suffering; for losses and harms; and for all other general damages as well as pre/post-judgment interest, costs, and attorney fees.

READ MORE: Franke, Hildebrandt sentenced for aggravated child abuse charges

According to the lawsuit, Kevin Frankes minor children were moved to Hildebrandts home in Ivins, Utah, while he was living in Utah County.

While those children were in her home, the lawsuit states they were confined and were not allowed to leave, under the threat of increased punishment or going to jail.

Kevin Franke alleges Hildebrandt physically tortured the children, forcing them, in part, to perform labor, stand in direct sunlight for several days, run barefoot on dirt roads, and jump into a cactus multiple times, to name a few.

One of the children, called R, was forced to remain outside in isolation at all hours of the day and night with little food or water, the lawsuit states.

In July 2023, R attempted to run away from the compound. He was ultimately caught by Hildebrandt and Ruby, who reportedly bound his hands and feet and tied them to weights.

Many times, the binding included two sets of handcuffs, on his wrists and ankles, the lawsuit states. At times, while he was laying on his stomach, ropes were used to tie the two sets of handcuffs together so that his arms and lower legs were lifted off the ground in a hogtied fashion.

When the handcuffs cut through his skin and damaged muscle and tissue, they were treated with cayenne and honey and covered in duct tape, the lawsuit states.

The other child, called E, was treated similarly, forced into isolation and extreme and demanding physical tasks, as well as denied adequate food and water.

Both R and E were regularly indoctrinated, the lawsuit states, being convinced that they were evil and possessed, that the punishments were necessary for their repentance, and that the abusive behavior was acts of love.

On Aug. 30, 2023, R reportedly escaped from Hildebrandts home and contacted a neighbor, requesting food and water and that law enforcement be called so he could be taken to jail.

The latter request was because he had been so indoctrinated by [Hildebrandt] that if he escaped, he would go to jail, the lawsuit states.

Instead of jail, R was cared for by first responders and admitted to a hospital.

That same day, Hildebrandt was arrested and E was found sitting in a closet in Hildebrandts home.

After hours of reassurance from law enforcement, she, too, was admitted to a hospital, according to the lawsuit.

The Department of Child Services then took custody of all four of Hildebrandts children, who had been so seriously and adversely manipulated and indoctrinated, the lawsuit states.

The childrens personalities, emotions and psyches were so damaged and altered that it was beyond [Kevin Frankes] capability to restore them without professional intervention, the lawsuit states.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Rural Kansas town better for Hispanics than it was, but struggle still continues | Opinion

Editors note: This is one in a series of guest columns by Wichita-area residents to tell their stories, in their words, spotlighting barriers that deter full participation in the life of the community. Funding for Unheard Voices has been provided by the American Press Institute through its Civic Discourse and Community Voices Fund.

My name is Blanca Lopez, and I hail from a small town in Guanajuato, Mexico.

I spent my childhood there until the age of 14. In the summer of 2007, my family and I arrived in Coffeyville, Kansas. Originally, it was intended as a brief stop to visit family before heading to our final destination, Indianapolis, Indiana.

However, my father, captivated by the tranquil nature of Coffeyville in comparison to the bustling Indianapolis, made the pivotal decision for our family to settle there.

I commenced my 8th-grade journey at Roosevelt Middle School in August 2007.

The initial year posed significant challenges, with communication being a considerable barrier. Frustration and a sense of powerlessness were my daily companions, as I struggled to connect with classmates, teachers, and school administrators.

It felt like a continuous nightmare, marked by tears and the fear of embarrassing myself whenever I attempted to speak.

Transitioning to Field Kindley High School brought a positive shift. Finding friends with whom I could converse in Spanish made me feel more at ease.

However, a subsequent phase of complacency led to a decline in my commitment to academics. Thoughts of why try so hard when I cant even understand the language became a self-defeating mantra, resulting in failing grades and a lack of enthusiasm for school.

My sophomore year presented an unexpected challenge  I became pregnant at 16.

Facing rejection from my strict Mexican household, I encountered immense struggles. Yet, this hardship fueled my determination to change my circumstances. I recommitted to education, ceased skipping classes, and learned to embraced school.

Despite the challenges, I completed my courses ahead of schedule and graduated in May 2012. My renewed focus on learning the language allowed me to secure a part-time job during my junior year.

Subsequently, I transitioned to roles as a translator, leveraging my language skills to assist others within the Hispanic community.

Experiencing personal growth and life lessons in this journey fueled my passion for helping others, especially the Hispanic community. I immersed myself in volunteer work at hospitals, clinics, city buildings, and police departments, by being there every time a person called me asking for support. I strive to ensure everyone has a voice while accessing local resources.

Over the past decade, Ive observed significant changes in the Hispanic population in Coffeyville, with the community evolving.

However, resources and entities in the community have yet to fully adapt to meet the changing needs. Many still struggle to comprehend the healthcare and education systems, their rights, and responsibilities.

The lack of language access and cultural understanding contributes to a continued lack of access to local resources and services. Several locations remain unvisited by the Hispanic community, citing feelings of unwelcome and discomfort.

My primary focus is on building a bridge between the Hispanic community and the rest of Coffeyville. Everyone deserves to feel a sense of belonging, fostering harmony for the community as a whole.

Yet, the biggest challenge lies in the lack of support for creating change and fostering inclusivity in the community, preventing everyone from being seen as part of Coffeyvilles diverse tapestry.

In my efforts to drive change and celebrate diversity, I founded a community group of Hispanic volunteers.

Together, we organize the Coffeyville Hispanic Heritage Celebration every September during Hispanic Heritage Month. Our mission is to promote inclusion and belonging, ensuring everyone feels valued in our community.

Were seeking to build a stronger, more inclusive Coffeyville  a place where diversity is celebrated, and every voice is heard.
A rush-hour crash on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 84 just north of the Boise Airport has blocked off two lanes of traffic, according to an incident report on the Idaho Transportation Departments website. The notice was posted at 5:33 p.m. Thursday.

The accident at mile post 53, near South Vista Avenue, reduced traffic to three lanes. Commuters can expect delays. The notice said to use caution and keep left.

It was not immediately clear how many vehicles were involved in the wreck, or whether there were any injuries. No update was provided about reopening times.

Idaho State Police spokesperson Aaron Snell did not immediately return a phone call Thursday evening.

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Prosecutor clears Ada County deputies who fatally shot knife-wielding man on I-84
Update: Jeremy Williams convicted of Kamarie Hollands murder; There is not enough justice for what this monster did to this baby

FINAL UPDATE

This morning, it took a Russell County jury about an hour to convict Jeremy Williams on four counts of felony murder.

He killed, raped and brutalized 5-year-old Kamarie Holland on December 13, 2021.

Here is how Russell County District Attorney Rick Chancey summed it up.

I told the family of people involved with him, dont expect an apology, dont expect remorse, Chancey said. I dont think hell ever truly apologize for what hes done. I dont think he has the ability to feel remorse. And I think you can just see in his eyes that he is what he is. And hes on a different level of evil. But you can see it.

Jeremy Williams bought an hour of 5-year-old Kamarie Hollands time. He purchased her for $2,500 for sex from the little girls mother  who has pled guilty to human trafficking and is serving a 20-year sentence.

What happened that day is unspeakable. And Williams in a meth-fueled sexual rage, put all of it on video shot from phone.

There is not enough justice for what this monster did to this baby, Lt. Steve Johnson commander of the Russell County Jail.

Johnson came in on Christmas night 2021 to take a five-hour taped confession from Williams. He confessed to a murder of his 1-month old son in Alaska for the sin of crying.

But the evidence of the rape, sodomy and murder of Kamarie stunned even the most seasoned deputies.

When we opened that phone and we saw the crime videoed live as it occurred, it was more than what my folks at the time could really comprehend, Sheriff Heath Taylor.

And Chancey asked 15 jurors  12 on the jury and three alternates  to watch 11 minutes of that video before passing judgment on Williams.

After the verdict, Chancey spent some time talking to the jurors.

The first thing I asked him was, Could Ive gotten by without the video? Because thats been on my heart for two years: Is do I put them through that video or not? Chancey said. Because its you heard it. Its bad and its worse than I can even say. And, I think every one of them said you dont get the effect unless you see the video. So none of them, I think, felt like I should not have shown the video. They didnt want to see it. They didnt like seeing it, but they said it helped them understand that he was guilty of everything he was charged with.

Kamarie was with her mother that night because the girls father, Corey Holland who had custody of Kamarie and her brother, violated a court order that prohibited Kristy Siples children from having any contact with her.

Siple, a prostitute, knew Williams and had let him babysit Kamarie while she was working.

Heres the reason Holland says he violated the court order and let Siple have her child that night.

You know, Kamarie had me wrapped around her finger, Corey Holland said. So, in the end, everything she wanted, I always wanted to give her. And she begged me to go. I didnt want to upset my baby so I let her go.

Taylor has been the one charged with keeping Williams safe in the Russell County Jail as the case worked through the system.

Weve had several, obviously, of the inmates in the facility that were wanting to get to him and have a, well, you know, a more prophetic justice type thing, Taylor said. But its our responsibility to keep him safe and its our responsibility to bring him to court and let him have the justice through our system. And thats what we did.

Chancey and Taylor stood in a Russell County cemetery back in December 2021 to seek justice for Kamarie Holland. There is video of them standing off to the side looking at Kamaries casket over the grave.

I see and its probably your picture, I didnt know somebody was taking pictures but from behind I can see that picture of the sheriff and I standing there looking toward the grave, Chancey said. Nah, we didnt get justice. We need Kamarie back. That baby should not have gone through that, Chuck. I got the best I can do.

The ordeal is not over. Monday morning, Williams will be back in front of Circuit Court Judge David Johnson for the sentencing phase. Williams waived his right for a jury to decide. The life or death decision now rests with Judge Johnson.

VERDICT UPDATE: A verdict has been reached in the trial of Jeremy Williams, the man who previously admitted to killing and raping 5-year-old Kamarie Holland.

The jury has found Williams guilty on four capitol charges  one for the murder of a child under 14, one that the death happened during a kidnapping, one that it happened during a rape, and the final one that it happened during the commission of sodomy.

Sentencing is set for Monday.

PHENIX CITY, Ala. (WRBL)  After three days of testimony, an 11-woman, four-man Russell County jury now has the fate of admitted child killer Jeremy Williams in their hands.

Williams is facing the possibility of the death penalty in the kidnapping, murder and rape of 5-year-old Kamarie Holland.

He is facing four capital charges  one for the murder of a child under 14, one that the death happened during a kidnapping, one that it happened during a rape, and the final one that it happened during the commission of sodomy.

The jury got the case about 10:30 a.m. after closing arguments and a final state witness.

District Attorney Rick Chancey closed by telling the jury about when he got the call that Kamaries body was found in Phenix City on Dec. 13, 2021. And what he saw in a basement of a home that night.

You see a naked 5-year-old baby with her legs spread, blood coming out of her, in full rigor mortis, Chancey said. Once you see it you cant unsee it. I will never unsee it.

Those closings did not happen before the state presented one last witness  a 23 year-old women. She told the jury that Williams had raped and assaulted her when she was 5 and lived in Alaska.

The woman said she had not told anyone of the assaults  including her mother  until Russell County Sheriffs Office investigator Brad Evans reached to her after Williams confessed to the crimes in December 2021.

I was scared of what would happen if I told, she told the jury. He would try to hurt my mom and things would get worse.

Her powerful testimony in a soft-spoken voice took less than 10 minutes. Williams attorneys asked no questions on cross examination.

The jury was forced to watch 11 minutes of video of Williams forcing Kamarie to give him oral sex and punching her in the face when she would bite him. The state elected not to show at least 20 more minutes of video after the jurors were opening disturbed and some weeping as the video played.

We just added 15 people to the list of folks who saw that video, and now will never unsee it, Chancey said. For that I apologize.

This trial is happening despite the fact that Williams admitted to killing and raping Kamarie Holland. He has entered a guilty plea in the case, but under Alabama law to get the death penalty, a jury trial must be held.

*That guilty plea  filed in the clerks office  was entered into evidence.

Williams attorneys, led by Chuck Floyd of Phenix City, were handcuffed by their client. Williams had instructed his attorneys not to object and not put up a defense. Time and time, Circuit Court Judge David Johnson asked Williams if that was his wish that his attorneys not object. Each time, Williams answered yes. At one one early in the trial, he told the judge, I dont want them to say nothing.

Floyd said that Williams did not want the jury to have to listen to the evidence. His closing lasted for about five minutes.

But thats the law, Floyd said. I am really mad at the legislature for passing such a law. But yall helped me understand the law. When we questioned yall many of you raised your hands when asked if you believed people who were not guilty pled guilty.  Yall helped me understand the law.

Chancey thanked the jury for their service.

Yall can rest easy knowing an innocent man is not going to jail, Chancey told the jurors, his voice breaking. I cant think of a word to describe, but for now lets go with guilty.

Previous Coverage:

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
Russia believed to have used new Kh-69 missiles in 11 April attack

Russia is thought to have used new Kh-69 cruise missiles during its attack on Ukraine on 11 April, which could have been effectively downed by the Patriot air defence systems that Ukraine desperately needs to reinforce.

Source: Illia Yevlash, spokesperson for the Air Force, during the 24/7 national joint newscast

Details: Defense Express reported, citing sources, that judging by the debris found in Kyiv Oblast, the Russians used their new Kh-69 cruise missiles during their attack on the Trypillia thermal power plant, which enabled them to completely destroy the plant.

Yevlash said experts are still establishing which missile was used and what type. He added that the Kh-69 is an improved version of the Kh-59.

Russia has already used these missiles to strike Ukraine.

Quote: "These are fresh missiles with parts manufactured in 2023. So we can see that Russia is constantly trying to produce new missiles.

However, it all depends on the success of their production, how quickly they can supply themselves with various semiconductors, chips, microcircuits and other important parts.

Of course, the Kh-69 missile is a new missile for us, so we are, among other things, studying how we can shoot it down. It is likely that the Patriot air defence system will also be able to counter it, as it has dealt with more complicated types of missiles, such as Zircons and Kinzhals."

Details: Regarding the information posted yesterday by Bild journalist Julian Ropcke, who has been following the fighting in Ukraine and said that Ukraine has almost run out of missiles for the Patriot and Iris-T air defence systems, Yevlash noted that Ukraine needs a large number of Patriot systems. It is currently the only weapon that can effectively counter the Russians powerful air attack capabilities. So the Defence Forces are, of course, very much looking forward to receiving these air defence systems from Ukraines partners.

Yevlash stressed that Ukraine does not manufacture these systems or the ammunition for them, so of course Ukraine needs more missiles. However, he added that Ukrainians should not panic.

Background: On the night of 10-11 April, Russia launched a large-scale combined attack against Ukraine's critical infrastructure: air defence forces destroyed 57 of the 82 air targets launched by the Russians.

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Democrats for years have warned about Russian influence in the Republican Party under Donald Trump. But now even some prominent GOP members of Congress are sounding the alarm.

I think Russian propaganda has made its way into the United States, unfortunately, and its infected a good chunk of my partys base, Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Pucks Julia Ioffe last week. Representative Mike Turner, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, went further, telling CNNs Jake Tapper a few days later, We see directly coming from Russia attempts to mask communications that are anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia messages, some of which we even hear being uttered on the House floor.

Which Republicans might they be referring to? Representative Ken Buck didnt hesitate to point a finger at Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, saying on Monday, Moscow Marjorie is focused now on this Ukraine issue and getting her talking points from the Kremlin and making sure that she is popular and she is getting a lot of coverage.

Theyre saying aloud what they once whispered behind closed doors. Back in 2016, when he was a Republican congressman but not yet House speaker, Kevin McCarthy said in a private meeting with GOP leaders, Theres two people, I think, Putin pays: [Representative Dana] Rohrabacher and Trump  swear to God. (Rohrabacher, once dubbed Putins favorite congressman, lost his seat in 2018.)

McCarthy, confronted with the leaked audio in 2017, claimed it was a joke. But anyone paying attention to how Russian intelligence services run influence operationswhich I do, as a former CIA officerknows it is anything but. It raises a legitimate, and deadly serious, question: Have Russian operatives paid any Republican officials?

Consider the news last week that authorities in several European countries had uncovered a vast corruption network, in which European politicians were paid to spread anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia propaganda. The network, according to intelligence sources cited by Czech media and confirmed by the countrys prime minister, was orchestrated by pro-Russia Ukrainian oligarch Viktor Medvedchuk. Politicians from Germany, France, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Hungary were allegedly paid directly with cash or through cryptocurrency exchanges.

The case highlights an important misunderstanding that arose during Trumps first presidential campaign, about how malign influence operations work: They are not simply, or even primarily, bot or troll networks on social media that amplify lies and propaganda. Theyre human intelligence operations toonot unlike what you might see in a Hollywood film. Operatives of Russias security services meet with politicians, journalists, activists, and other influencers and pay them to carry out certain tasks.

The idea is to push narratives and policies that help Russia but to mask them behind a local face. (In the aforementioned case, the popular website Voice of Europe was allegedly used to push the propaganda and to facilitate payments.) This provides Russia plausible deniability, but it also makes it more likely that audiences will trust the messages. It serves a purpose within Russia too, as domestic propaganda purportedly showing that people in other countries agree with the Kremlins positions.

The Voice of Europe scandal is merely the latest example of Russian influence on the continent. Last year, the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project revealed that politicians in Germany, Italy, and Cyprus were paid by Russian operatives to introduce legislation literally written by Russian intelligence officers. The OCCRP also uncovered examples of parliamentary staff members, party activists, and members of think tanks publishing articles in European press outlets under their name, while the articles were actually written by Russian handlers. One activist from Austria even complained to his handler about the quality of one article that had been coordinated with the Kremlin. I am not a robot, he said. Nevertheless, he published the article under his name in a Swiss media outlet.

It is naive to think the same pattern does not exist in the United States, given the ample evidence of coordinated pro-Russian talking points from several Republican politicians. Just this week, Marjorie Taylor Greene spoke to Steve Bannon about Ukraines persecution of Christians, which is a Kremlin talking point aimed at boosting the pro-Moscow wing of Ukraines Orthodox Church. The U.S. should be spending money on the border with Mexico, not on Ukraine aid? Thats a Kremlin talking point. Russia invaded Ukraine to defend itself against an expanding NATO? Thats a Kremlin talking point. Call for a cease-fire, and give Russia Crimea and eastern Ukraine? Thats a Kremlin talking point.

While we cannot say for sure if any Republican officials are on the Russian payroll in ways similar to their European counterparts, we can be sure that theyve been approached. As the director of national intelligence wrote in 2021, Russian intelligence operatives and their proxies sought to use prominent US persons and media conduits to launder their narratives to US officials and audiences. These Russian proxies met with and provided materials to Trump administration-linked US persons to advocate for formal investigations; hired a US firm to petition US officials; and attempted to make contact with several senior US officials. They also made contact with established US media figures.

As for payments, weve seen a disturbing pattern. In 2017, Andrew Intrater donated $250,000 to Trumps inauguration fund and, a few months later, donated $35,000 to Trumps reelection campaign. Intrater is a cousin of Viktor Vekselberg, a Russian oligarch who was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2018 for his connections to Putin. We know that oligarchs play an integral role in funding Russian influence operations. One oligarch revealed to special counsel Robert Mueller that Putin held quarterly meetings with his oligarchs to discuss strategic spending.

In 2018, a Texas-based firm donated money to House Speaker Mike Johnson. That firm is 88 percent owned by three Russians. And last week, we learned that Trump Media received loans from a Russian bank to help the company stay afloat before it went public and at a time when no U.S. bank would lend to Trump.

Any donations that might have been made through anonymous LLCs to PACsperhaps with attached quid pro quosare likely to remain opaque, due to the Supreme Courts Citizens United decision. And we cannot say if the financial transactions we do know about are nefarious. But the pattern paints a disturbing picture, particularly given many House Republicans rabid opposition to Ukraine aid and Trumps reported Ukraine peace plan, which would cede Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine to Russia. A similar plan was floated by Paul Manafort, Trumps 2016 campaign chairman, and his partner Konstantin Kilimnik, a Russian intelligence operative, during the 2016 election.

Among the entities promoted by the Voice of Europe propaganda network was Hungarys Center for Fundamental Rights, which considers preserving national identity, sovereignty, and Judeo-Christian social traditions as its primary mission. CFR is funded by the government of Viktor Orban and has twice organized a conference in Budapest for the Conservative Political Action Committee, which helps shape policy on the American right. The Heritage Foundationwhich has spearheaded Project 2025, the authoritarian blueprint for a future Republican administrationhas become increasingly cozy with Hungary, and even hosted Orban privately last month. It is quite possible, perhaps even likely, that some people who are on the Russian payroll were at the Heritage event, their role to influence and build support for pro-Russian policies.

We now have overwhelming evidence of vast pro-Russian influence operations throughout Europe that seek to exploit politicians, media personalities, and othersand some of these efforts have been successful. Here in the United States, while a pattern has emerged, we dont know the full extent of the influence yet. But it would be foolish, not to mention dangerous, to think we are immune.
Russia's Defense Ministry claimed that its forces downed four drones over Rostov Oblast and one over Belgorod Oblast overnight on April 12.

While Ukrainian officials did not claim responsibility for the alleged attacks, recent months saw an escalating campaign of strikes against Russian oil refineries and industrial facilities.

In Rostov Oblast, the drones were downed at 3:10 a.m. local time over the mining city of Novoshakhtinsk, the regional governor, Vasily Golubev, claimed.

The official alleged that no casualties or damage were recorded as a result of the attack without clarifying what was the intended target.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. Ukrainian officials did not respond to a request for comment.

Ukranine's military intelligence spokesperson Andrii Yusov said on March 13 that the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery partially shut down as a result of a recent drone strike.

"Even though this is an oil refinery, it is a military facility that helps supply Russian occupying troops in Ukraine," Yusov said on air at the time.

Read also: How Ukraine hit a Russian drone factory 1,300 kilometers away

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
What did the Russians destroy?

On 11 April, the Russians carried out the third large-scale attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure since the beginning of the year: thermal generation and transmission facilities were attacked in Odesa, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv, and Kyiv oblasts.

It is already certain that the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant (TPP) of PJSC Centrenergo, a major electric and thermal energy-producing company in Ukraine's centre and east, was utterly destroyed in Kyiv Oblast. Significant damage has also been inflicted on two power stations of Rinat Akhmetov's DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company, and substations of Ukrenergo, Ukraine's national energy company.

[BANNER1]

What is left of thermal generation in Ukraine?

Three companies own thermal power plants in Ukraine: before the full-scale invasion, about 80% of coal generation was controlled by Ukrainian billionaire Rinat Akhmetov's DTEK group. Second was the state-owned Centrenergo, which operated three stations; the smallest producer was Donbasenergo, owned by Maksym Yefimov and Eduard Bondarenko.

After the latest attack and destruction of the Trypillia TPP, the state-owned Centrenergo lost all 100% of its generation capacity. Its Vuhlehirska TPP in Donetsk Oblast was occupied in the summer of 2022, and on 22 March of this year, the Russians destroyed Zmiivka TPP in Kharkiv Oblast. Thus, all three Centrenergo thermal power plants were either destroyed or captured.

Donbasenergo owned two thermal power plants. Starobesheve TPP has been occupied by the so-called "DNR" (Donetsk People's Republic) terrorists since 2015, while the Sloviansk TPP is located near the front line and is systematically attacked by the Russians.

Not much is left of DTEK, once the largest player in the thermal generation market. Before the start of the large war, Zuivska Thermal Power Plant was occupied, and after the full-scale Russian invasion, the Russians captured two more power plants  Zaporizhzhia and Luhansk.

The rest the Russians decided to destroy with drone and missile attacks. For safety reasons, Ekonomichna Pravda does not disclose information about the operating power plants of the energy holding, but before the last attack, the company's CEO, Dmytro Sakharuk, stated that about 80% of DTEK's capacities were damaged or utterly destroyed.

"Five out of six plants available until the recent massive attack are severely damaged. Some blocks are almost completely destroyed, the rest  partially," Sakharuk reported after the first two attacks.

During the morning attack on 11 April, equipment at two power plants was again significantly affected. The company did not disclose details, but it can be concluded that the figure of 80% damaged or destroyed facilities is no longer relevant. Thus, less than 20% of thermal generation remains compared to what was available before 22 March of this year.

[BANNER2]

Why are TPPs necessary for power system operation?

First, it should be mentioned that Russia is attacking not only coal-fired power plants. In addition to thermal power plants (TPPs), hydroelectric power plants (HPPs) and the Ukrenergo's infrastructure necessary for electricity transmission are also subjected to systemic attacks [Ukrenergo is the electricity transmission system operator in Ukraine].

For obvious reasons, the Russians do not attack nuclear power plants or "green" generation facilities since the latter are small and distributed throughout the country.

Therefore, Russia's primary goal is to disable thermal and hydroelectric power plants, which are maneuverable assets. Their primary role in the power system is the ability to quickly increase power production in the morning and evening when consumption rapidly rises.

The power system can only operate safely when a balance is maintained: electricity consumption equals electricity production. When this balance is disrupted, problems arise, leading to power outages.

What happens if TPPs are completely destroyed?

Only basic generation will be available in Ukraine, namely nuclear power plants. Solar and wind power plants will also operate. Some consumers will receive power from imports and emergency assistance.

In addition to the loss of a significant production volume, which currently has no replacement, TPPs destruction will significantly complicate dispatchers work. Despite the difficulties, balancing the power system can be achieved through HPPs, which are among the priority targets for the Russians, too.

The loss of TPPs will inevitably lead to power outages for millions of consumers across the country, at least during the winter and in July-August.

Restrictions may also occur in other periods of the year. However, assessing the scale accurately is currently impossible for objective reasons.

[BANNER3]

Is it possible that the Russians will destroy all thermal generation?

The situation with thermal generation is already critical. "It is clear that there will be no coal generation in Ukraine after the war. The Russians are stubborn and if they start destroying our TPPs, they will continue to do so until they achieve their goal," believes Oleksandr Kharchenko, Director at the Energy Industry Research Centre.

How many such attacks are needed to destroy all thermal generation left? Again, everything depends on many factors that cannot be assessed now. The Ekonomichna Pravda's source in the energy sector mentioned different numbers: from two to ten attacks.

What about the protection of energy assets? It has cost tens of billions of hryvnyas...

It is essential to understand that when it comes to billions spent on protecting energy assets, this does not apply to power plants, as it is clearly impossible to shield them with, lets say, sarcophagi, as is the case with the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (CNPP). The Chornobyl NPP sarcophagus is a tremendous concrete structure built to cover and contain the damaged reactor and radioactive materials after the 1986 Chornobyl nuclear disaster.

Protection was constructed at high-voltage substations, which suffered the most from last year's Russian attacks. Information about the number and location of shelters at substations is classified. Still, for general understanding, we can say that several dozen facilities were closed, accounting for only about 20-25% of their total number.

"There is protection at the substations, it proved itself well, though in terms of the overall picture, there are not enough of them installed," Kharchenko said.

In addition, Ekonomichna Pravda sources say the shelters are not designed to withstand a direct hit from a ballistic missile. "They can't withstand a strike with an accuracy of a metre, and where there have been such hits, autotransformers or other equipment have been destroyed. However, in cases where the missile hit 20-30 metres to the right or left, the protective structure did work. The equipment there is operational," says an Ekonomichna Pravda source in energy sector circles.

It is simply impossible to erect such protective structures at huge generation facilities.

[BANNER4]

Why are there no rolling blackouts at present?

As a matter of fact, the situation is now critical, and several factors contribute to avoiding blackouts across the country.

Firstly, many consumers are still without power in the city of Kharkiv, where rolling blackouts are introduced daily. Power supply restrictions have also been imposed on industrial consumers in the city of Kryvyi Rih.

Secondly, Ukraine regularly receives imports and emergency assistance from the European power grid.

Thirdly, the country is currently at its lowest consumption peak. However, once consumption picks up due to the heatwave, problems may arise.

Another thing to keep in mind is that rolling blackouts already occasionally occur in some oblasts. For example, they were introduced in Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kirovohrad, Poltava, Donetsk and Sumy oblasts last week during the evening peak consumption period from 18:00 to 22:00.

Therefore, power supply restrictions are possible at any time, especially if the Russians launch more attacks.

[BANNER5]

What actions can Ukraine take before next winter?

First of all, some of the equipment destroyed by the Russians can be repaired. Some countries have committed to providing Ukraine with spare parts and equipment from their closed thermal power plants.

Secondly, it is necessary to develop distributed generation based on natural gas, which has been the subject of much discussion recently, but nothing has moved beyond mere words.

"It is necessary to find, bring in and install gas piston and gas turbine power plants with low capacity that the enemy cannot destroy in the shortest possible time. Gas turbine and gas piston generation is the only possible solution in the next 2-3 years. After that, we can discuss other options. At least 2-2.5 GW of new capacity is necessary to replace what has already been lost due to the recent attacks," Kharchenko explained.

The critical thing is to bolster Ukrainian air defence and completely close the skies, as without these measures, there is no point in rebuilding old coal-fired power plants or building new gas-fired power plants. In the meantime, consumers are urged to save electricity, as Ukrenergo has already advised.

Translation: Tetiana Buchkovska, Artem Yakymyshyn, Sofiia Kohut

Editing: Ivan Zhezhera
ZHENGZHOU, China, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Memorial Ceremony to Ancestor Huang Di in His Native Place was held in Huang Di's Hometown on April 11. The celebration takes place every year on the third day of the third month in the Chinese lunar calendar in Xinzheng City of Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. And this year is specially called the Jiachen Year (2024).

The Memorial Ceremony to Ancestor Huang Di in His Native Place in the Jiachen Year

Themed "Peace, Concord and Harmony with One Same Root, Ancestor and Origin", the ceremony was jointly sponsored by the People's Government of Henan Province, the Henan Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots and the Association for Yan Huang Culture of China.

Chinese from around the world worshiped the legendary ancestor Huang Di, or the Yellow Emperor, praying for the prosperity of Chinese civilization and wishing the world peace and harmony.

The ceremony started at 9:40 a.m. with a gun salute, followed by a series of sections, including flower basket offering, incense burning, bow worshipping, prayers reading, carol singing, worship through song and dance, prayers for China, and prayers for harmony between nature and humans.

At 10:40 a.m., the conclusion of the ceremony was announced, which was witnessed by about 5,000 attendees, including representatives from all walks of life and reporters from nearly 100 media organizations.

The grand Memorial is not only a cultural event, but a platform for cooperation aimed at promoting mutually beneficial development. This year's ceremony was held alongside an event for business negotiation and investment promotion, through which a number of project agreements were signed.

It has been a tradition in China since the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period (770-221 BC) to worship the Yellow Emperor. In 2008, the Memorial Ceremony was inscribed onto the national list of intangible cultural heritage of China.

Each year, Chinese all over the world, including those in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan of China and those in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia hold activities to worship the Yellow Emperor, paying tribute to the respected ancestor.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/annual-memorial-to-chinese-legendary-ancestor-marks-the-blessing-to-the-nation-302115479.html

SOURCE Memorial Ceremony to Ancestor Huang Di in His Native Place
Russia loses 840 soldiers and 34 artillery systems over past day

Stock photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Ukrainian soldiers continue to inflict losses on Russia. Over the past day alone, Russia has lost 840 soldiers, 34 artillery systems, 19 armoured combat vehicles and nine tanks.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of the Russians from 24.02.22 to 12.04.24 are estimated to be:

451,730 (+840) military personnel;

7,146 (+9) tanks;

13,698 (+19) armoured combat vehicles;

11,486 (+34) artillery systems;

1,042 (+2) multiple-launch rocket systems;

755 (+1) air defence systems;

347 (+0) fixed-wing aircraft;

325 (+0) helicopters;

9,161 (+57) strategic and tactical UAVs;

2,087 (+18) cruise missiles;

26 (+0) ships and boats;

1 (+0) submarines;

15,339 (+41) vehicles and tankers;

1,888 (+6) special vehicles and other equipment.

The information is being confirmed.

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Russia is 'more dangerous' now than when it first invaded, former general reports after returning from Ukraine

Retired Australian Army Maj. Gen. Mick Ryan advocates for a change in Ukraine's war strategy.

Ryan suggests Ukraine needs to push its narrative in Western media to counter Russia's influence.

He highlighted the importance of Ukraine's drone development and Black Sea leverage.

A retired general and warfare strategist is pushing for a change in Ukraine's strategy after returning from a grim visit to the war-torn country.

"The most important insight from my visit was confirmation that Russia now has the strategic momentum in the war," explained Mick Ryan, a former Australian major general, in a Friday post for The Interpreter, a publication partnered with the Australia-based Lowy Institute.

Russia has gotten over the "shock of its early failures," he said, drawing his observations from recent conversations with government and military officials, think tanks, and journalists. The Russian military has changed its warfighting capabilities, and the defense industry has been kicked into gear.

"Now," Ryan said, "it appears capable of generating the human, materiel and informational resources to subjugate Ukraine in a way it was not capable of when it began its large-scale invasion in February 2022."

"Russia is now a more dangerous adversary than it was two years ago," he wrote. "This calls for change in how the war is fought."

Ukrainian troops on a BWP infantry fighting vehicle prepare for combat towards Lyman in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on March 17. Jose Colon/Getty Images

For starters, Ukraine's partners need to shift their thinking, and for Ukraine, that means coming up with a vision for victory that it can implement.

Another issue is strategic communications. Ryan has noticed a major shift in attention from Ukraine to other conflicts. Ukraine, he argued, must push its narrative to get through to Western media and dispute Russia's declarations of expected victory.

The Kremlin has made a continuous effort to influence Ukrainian partner nations with its narratives and in doing so, it has caused some in countries like the United States to believe the war is a distraction from "real" problems the country should be dealing with instead of helping Ukraine, the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War reported last month.

"Ukraine needs to discover a new voice that explains the importance of its defence, why Western support is vital, and that Russian narratives about inevitable victory are wrong," Ryan said, adding that "while confronting Russian misinformation activities is the responsibility of all democracies, Ukraine's strategic messaging must evolve."

Russian Army soldiers ride their armoured vehicle to take positions and fire from flamethrowers toward Ukrainian positions at an undisclosed location in Ukraine in a photo released by Russia's military in April 2024. Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP

He also detailed how during his trip, a Kyiv official told him how there was no clear plan as to how Ukraine would win the war.

A win for Ukraine is dependent on the aid it receives as well as its defense strategy. Ryan said NATO and other partner nations should consider switching their perception of providing support from "defend Ukraine" to "defeat Russia in Ukraine."

US officials have made it clear that Russia has the edge. It has rebuilt its wounded military and is cultivating clear battlefield advantages.

Earlier this month, Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said that Russia has "almost completely reconstituted militarily " and US European Command's Gen. Chris Cavoli supported that assessment on Wednesday, adding that Russia's "overall capacity is very significant still, and they intend to make it go higher."

Cavoli also said that Russia's current artillery advantage compared to Ukraine is 5:1, but this could increase to 10:1 in a matter of weeks while Ukraine waits for US aid.

Troops with Ukraine's Da Vinci Wolves battalion train for assaults on April 8. Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images

Although Ukraine and its international partners have more work to do, Ryan said Kyiv has made immense progress over the course of the war especially in targeting Russian ships in the Black Sea and oil refineries at home.

Ukraine's ability to adapt to new threats and emerging challenges has allowed it focus on new research and manufacturing capabilities. Ryan noted in his article the importance of Ukraine's drone development and use.

"Ukraine now produces hundreds of thousands of small drones as well as thousands of large drones with increasing range and larger warheads," he said.

Commenting on the strategic strikes, Ryan said that "this capacity, which is improving in its reach and effectiveness, will be a key part of future Ukrainian operations."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) has reported that Russia is sending personnel of the Russian Pacific Fleet and the 11th Air Force and Air Defence Army to the war in Ukraine to replenish sanitary and irrecoverable losses.

Source: DIU on Telegram

Quote: "According to the decision of Viktor Liina, the Commander of the Russian Pacific Fleet, rotations to Syria have been completely stopped, and all personnel are being sent to the combat zone on the territory of Ukraine. We are talking about 2,000 Russian servicemen from the Primorsky and Kamchatka Krais of the Russian Federation."

Details: Intelligence reports that about 400 more soldiers from the military units of the 11th Air Force and Air Defence Army, stationed in Russia's Khabarovsk Krai, will "patch up the holes" of the Russian 155th and 40th Marine Brigades, which are understaffed due to huge losses.

Part of the personnel from the military formations of Russia's Far East will join the new motorised infantry brigade, which is being formed in Voronezh.

DIU reported that these Russian military formations have not been directly involved in hostilities against Ukraine before.

Background:

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine indicated that since the beginning of the war, Russian troops have already lost about 451,730 people in the war in Ukraine.

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Russian forces launched attacks against 11 of Ukraine's oblasts over the past day, killing five people and injuring at least 13 more, regional authorities said early on April 12.

Russia launched an attack against Mykolaiv on April 11, killing five people and injuring at least five more, Governor Vitalii Kim said.

The strike reportedly damaged 20 residential buildings and several cars. Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych told a Kyiv Independent reporter that the strike targeted an old industrial facility.

One civilian was injured in Russian attacks against Krasnohorivka in Donetsk Oblast on April 11, Governor Vadym Filashkin said.

In Kharkiv Oblast, two men aged 52 and 46 were injured in a Russian attack against the Verkhnia Pysarivka village on April 11, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

The same day, a 76-year-old man was reportedly wounded in a Russian strike against the village of Velyki Prokhody.

In Luhansk Oblast, a Russian rocket attack against Makiivka injured a police officer who was assisting local residents, Governor Artem Lysohor said.

Russian attacks against Sumy Oblast on April 11 injured two residents of the Vorozhba community, the regional military administration said. Russian glide bombs also damaged a thermal power plant in the Sumy community.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, a woman was injured in a Russian attack against the town of Huliaipole, according to Governor Ivan Fedorov.

Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson, Vinnytsia, and Khmelnytskyi oblasts also came under attack, but no casualties were reported.

The Air Force said that Ukrainian defenses downed 16 of the 17 Shahed-type drones launched by Russia overnight. Russia also launched a Kh-59 guided missile.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russia launches large-scale attack, destroys critical energy infrastructure

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A Russian UAV attacked the village of Kachkarivka (Kherson Oblast) on 11 April, injuring a man, 49.

Source: Kherson Oblast Military Administration

Quote: "A local resident, 49, was injured in his own home due to the explosives dropped from a drone."

Details: The man was reportedly diagnosed with a blast injury and shrapnel injuries to the chest. He has been hospitalised and is being provided with medical care.

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The Russian occupation authorities of Crimea have dismantled the dome of the Cathedral of Saints Volodymyr and Olha, Equal to the Apostles, of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) in Simferopol.

Source: Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets

Details: The commissioner added that he received this information from Metropolitan Klyment of Simferopol and Crimea.

Metropolitan Klyment told Lubinets that the constant pressure of the occupation authorities and the eviction of the Crimean Eparchy from this Cathedral had effectively destroyed the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) on the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula.

"In its aggression against Ukraine, the Russian Federation continues to destroy churches, imprison and torture clergy, and persecutes representatives of religious communities in the temporary occupied territories of Ukraine who are not loyal to the occupation authorities and the Russian Orthodox Church," Lubinets said.

The commissioner added that he had sent inquiries about the destruction of the Ukrainian cathedral by the Russians and the persecution of followers of the OCU to the United Nations. He also called on the international community to respond to another crime against the religion of the followers of the Crimean Eparchy of the OCU.

A few days ago, the Mission of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea reported that the occupiers dismantled the dome of the Cathedral of Saints Volodymyr and Olha on 8 April.

They also reported that since the beginning of the occupation of Crimea by Russia in 2014, the occupation authorities have continued to exert pressure on the Crimean Eparchy of the OCU on the peninsula. As a result of these actions, the number of parishes and priests of the OCU in Crimea has sharply decreased: there were 49 religious communities before the occupation, and only 7 were left as of 24 February 2022.

For reference: The Simferopol Cathedral of Saints Volodymyr and Olha, Equal to the Apostles, of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, on which the dome is now being dismantled, was seized by the occupation authorities a year ago  in May 2023.

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Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ), a state enterprise, hosted a meeting with international diplomatic missions to discuss the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor), Azernews reports.

Over 30 foreign ambassadors, as well as representatives from the EBRD and the World Bank, were briefed on the Middle Corridor's benefits and opportunities, the route's development results, and prospects for international cooperation, as well as the results of Kazakhstan's railway industry in 2023.



The KTZ reports that container transit via Kazakhstan has increased 4.7 times in the last ten years. At the end of last year, the volume of transit traffic exceeded 27 million tons, which has historically been the company's strongest indicator.

At the same time, the volume of cargo moved through TITR nearly doubled in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching over 2.8 million tons. The expected volume for TITR in 2024 is 4 million tons. In the medium future, up to ten million tons.



Participants were also briefed about KTZ's active work to strengthen the "soft and hard infrastructure" of TITR in order to improve logistics services both within and outside of Kazakhstan.



Andrei Mikhnev, the World Bank's Country Manager for Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, spoke at the occasion and stated that the WB's report gave an examination of alternative solutions that will help triple the current volume of freight traffic on the TITR.

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.




ASML Holding's (AMS:ASML) stock is up by a considerable 40% over the past three months. Given that the market rewards strong financials in the long-term, we wonder if that is the case in this instance. In this article, we decided to focus on ASML Holding's ROE.

Return on equity or ROE is an important factor to be considered by a shareholder because it tells them how effectively their capital is being reinvested. Simply put, it is used to assess the profitability of a company in relation to its equity capital.

Check out our latest analysis for ASML Holding

How Do You Calculate Return On Equity?

The formula for ROE is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for ASML Holding is:

58% = 7.8b  13b (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023).

The 'return' refers to a company's earnings over the last year. Another way to think of that is that for every 1 worth of equity, the company was able to earn 0.58 in profit.

What Has ROE Got To Do With Earnings Growth?

We have already established that ROE serves as an efficient profit-generating gauge for a company's future earnings. We now need to evaluate how much profit the company reinvests or "retains" for future growth which then gives us an idea about the growth potential of the company. Generally speaking, other things being equal, firms with a high return on equity and profit retention, have a higher growth rate than firms that dont share these attributes.

ASML Holding's Earnings Growth And 58% ROE

First thing first, we like that ASML Holding has an impressive ROE. Secondly, even when compared to the industry average of 15% the company's ROE is quite impressive. So, the substantial 26% net income growth seen by ASML Holding over the past five years isn't overly surprising.

As a next step, we compared ASML Holding's net income growth with the industry and found that the company has a similar growth figure when compared with the industry average growth rate of 31% in the same period.

Earnings growth is a huge factor in stock valuation. What investors need to determine next is if the expected earnings growth, or the lack of it, is already built into the share price. Doing so will help them establish if the stock's future looks promising or ominous. If you're wondering about ASML Holding's's valuation, check out this gauge of its price-to-earnings ratio, as compared to its industry.

Is ASML Holding Making Efficient Use Of Its Profits?

ASML Holding has a three-year median payout ratio of 34% (where it is retaining 66% of its income) which is not too low or not too high. By the looks of it, the dividend is well covered and ASML Holding is reinvesting its profits efficiently as evidenced by its exceptional growth which we discussed above.

Story continues

Besides, ASML Holding has been paying dividends for at least ten years or more. This shows that the company is committed to sharing profits with its shareholders. Our latest analyst data shows that the future payout ratio of the company over the next three years is expected to be approximately 29%. Accordingly, forecasts suggest that ASML Holding's future ROE will be 56% which is again, similar to the current ROE.

Summary

On the whole, we feel that ASML Holding's performance has been quite good. Specifically, we like that the company is reinvesting a huge chunk of its profits at a high rate of return. This of course has caused the company to see substantial growth in its earnings. Having said that, the company's earnings growth is expected to slow down, as forecasted in the current analyst estimates. Are these analysts expectations based on the broad expectations for the industry, or on the company's fundamentals? Click here to be taken to our analyst's forecasts page for the company.

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.
An explosion has occurred in Moscow, with Russian media reporting that a former employee of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), Vasyl Prozorov, has been injured.

Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency TASS; Telegram channels

Details: Moscow investigators have initiated a criminal case after an explosion targeting a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado in northern Moscow. The owner of the vehicle has reportedly been injured.

TASS, citing sources in the operational services, said the vehicle that was struck by an explosion on Korovinskoye Road in Moscow belongs to a former employee of the SSU.

The source reported that the explosion occurred when the man started the car.

Investigators and forensic experts of Russia's Investigative Committee in Moscow Oblast, together with operational services, are examining the scene, and a number of examinations will be scheduled shortly.

Background:

Vasyl Prozorov was dismissed from the SSU in 2018 on the grounds of incompetence.

In 2019, on 25 March, the SSU's anniversary, a press conference was held in Russia featuring Prozorov, who was described as a defector of the SSU.

Prozorov said he worked for the SSU from 1999 to 2018 and in the SSUs central office and the ATO headquarters since 2014. "I voluntarily assisted the Russian Federation in obtaining information for ideological reasons since April 2014," he said at the time. [The ATO or Anti-Terrorist Operation is a term used from 2014 to 2018 by the media, the government of Ukraine and the OSCE to identify combat actions in parts of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts against Russian military forces and pro-Russian separatists  ed.]

The former SSU officer also made a number of claims, including about the alleged involvement of Ukraine in the crash of the Malaysian Boeing in Donbas, the "secret prisons of the SSU", and the participation of Ukrainian special services in the murder of the leaders of the "L/DPR" (Russian-backed "Luhansk/Donetsk People's Republics") illegal armed groups.

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A Russian artillery attack against Monachynivka in Kharkiv Oblast on April 12 killed a 64-year-old man and injured two more people, the Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office said.

The two injured victims, a 72-year-old man and a 76-year-old woman, refused to be hospitalized and were provided medical attention on the spot, the prosecutors said.

Russian forces carried out the attack at around 11:15 a.m. local time, using 152 mm artillery systems, according to the statement.

Monachynivka lies in the front-line Kupiansk district, which is regularly targeted by Russian attacks.

Russia has recently intensified strikes against Kharkiv Oblast, reportedly destroying almost all of the energy infrastructure in the regional center, Kharkiv.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russia launches large-scale attack, destroys critical energy infrastructure

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Russian soldiers are convinced that getting injured is the only way they can go home to their families, Ukraine says

Russian soldiers are convinced that getting injured is the only way they can go home to their families, Ukraine says

Russian soldiers want to get injured as they see it as the only way to go home, Ukraine said.

It said Russia's death toll has convinced soldiers they have no chance of surviving.

"Therefore, the invaders dream of being injured," Ukraine's National Resistance Center said.

Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine now see getting injured as their only chance to leave the front lines and go home to see their families, according to Ukraine.

Ukraine's National Resistance Center said that many Russian soldiers have lost hope that they will be given time away from the front, as Russia doesn't have enough soldiers there.

"Therefore, the invaders dream of being injured," it said.

"In this way, there is a chance to start work in a place of permanent dislocation, and then, if you are lucky, to escape. There are simply no other options to get a 'vacation' and see relatives," it added.

The National Resistance Center, part of Ukraine's military dedicated to teaching civilians how to fight back, said Russia's high death toll had convinced soldiers that they had no hope of surviving and going home.

"The invaders are convinced that injury is an option not only to rest, but also to simply survive," it said. "After all, they lost countless soldiers on the battlefield."

Ukraine is also experiencing its own issues with allowing soldiers to leave the front lines.

Ukraine's parliament this week scrapped demobilization plans that would have given soldiers who spent long periods on the front the opportunity to go home on rotation.

Ukraine, which has a much smaller population than Russia, has struggled with manpower shortages, and some soldiers said their units have only become smaller, as people leave with injuries or are killed, and few fresh recruits arrive.

Earlier this year, Oleksandr, a battalion commander, told the Washington Post that Ukrainian infantry were being kept in their posts for too long.

"They need to be replaced by someone," he said.

Reports from earlier in the fighting have pointed to Russian soldiers deliberately injuring themselves.

A Russian paratrooper who fought in Ukraine said in August 2022 that some troops shot themselves in the leg to try to get away and also to get a $50,000 payout.

Audio published by Ukraine in 2022 supposedly showed a Russian soldier in Ukraine telling his mother in a phone call that his superior had shot himself to get out of fighting .

The wives of some Russian soldiers have also accused the country of keeping their men at the front lines indefinitely.

Many Russian soldiers have been sent to Ukraine with little training.

Captured soldiers and Western intelligence also point to Russia using tactics that don't prioritize keeping soldiers alive, including using "meat wave" tactics to try to overwhelm Ukrainian forces.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Russian strike on Sumy injures at least 3

A Russian attack on the northeastern city of Sumy injured at least three people and caused severe damage to civilian infrastructure, the local military administration reported on April 12.

Russia carried out the air strike at around 3 p.m. local time, targeting the residential sector and civilian facilities.

Two administrative non-residential buildings were damaged, as well as 73 windows were blown out in the apartment buildings nearby.

The attack also caused a fire on the roof of one of the administrative facilities. It has been eliminated by the emergency services, which are still working at the impact scene as of around 5 p.m. local time.

The information on casualties and damages is being clarified, the military administration said.

Over the past day, on April 12, Russia attacked Sumy Oblast eight times, targeting the Svesa, Khotin, Esman, and Vorozhba communities. Over 39 explosions were recorded.

Communities near Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia are regularly targeted by Russian artillery and air strikes, with residents in the region's vulnerable border settlements experiencing multiple attacks per day.

Read also: Bloomberg: Ukrainian army collapse cannot be ruled out, US official says

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Russia has delivered military equipment to Niger that will provide the African country with the latest generation of anti-aircraft defense systems, Nigerien state broadcaster RTN said Thursday.

The equipment arrived in Niamey on Wednesday along with 100 Russian military instructors who will install the system and train Nigerien soldiers to use it, RTN added.

Russian state media RIA Novosti said early Friday that Russian military instructors arrived in Niger to train local forces in the fight against terrorism.

This means that Russia is returning to Africa, an RIA Novosti correspondent reported from the scene, adding that NATO troops have also been arriving in Niamey to further catch a transfer flight to Agadez where right now about 1,100 American soldiers are located.

Supporters of Niger's National Council for Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) hold up Niger's national flag and the national flag of Russia at the General Seyni Kountche stadium in Niamey on Agust 26, 2023. - AFP/Getty Images

The arrival of Russian instructors followed a recent phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Nigerien General Abdourahamane Tiani on March 26 when the two leaders discussed ensuring security and combating terrorism.

Since seizing power in a coup last year, Nigers junta has been strengthening military ties with Russia while turning away from the US and France.

Last month, the junta said it was ending an accord with the US that allowed military personnel and civilian staff from the US Department of Defense to operate in Niger.

France, Nigers former colonial ruler, withdrew its troops from the African nation at the end of 2023.

Nigers junta-controlled neighbors Mali and Burkina Faso have also turned to Russia for military support, deepening Western concerns about Russias expanding influence in Africas troubled Sahel region that has battled a spate of coups and Islamist insurgents for years.

Outpace the US

Political analyst Mamadou Thior said former French colonies in the Sahel were reconsidering their military strategies.

What we are witnessing with Mali, Burkina Faso, and now Niger is a renewal in their military strategy because they no longer want to have Western militaries on their territories, he told CNN.

Russia is trying to show that it can outpace the US in Africa. The Russians see countries that are in crisis, and they come in to help. Once its done, they have a stronghold there and they try to have a base and try to get out the former forces, whether the US or European forces or even those who are under the flag of the United Nations.

Hundreds of Wagner contractors, a private Russian military group, are in Mali, at the invitation of the countrys military junta, to assist in its fight against insurgents.

Earlier this year, a group of Russian soldiers arrived in Burkina Faso months after the junta-led nation expelled French troops from its soil.

Wagner mercenaries had previously operated in the Central African Republic (another former French colony) since at least 2018, training the local army and combating rebels in the nations civil conflict.

Security consultant Mamadou Adje told CNN that Russias support for Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso will be more profitable to their junta leaders who will not be pressured by the Russians into ensuring a swift return to democracy.

The fact that they will have the support and the protection of the Russians who will not question the democratic setting of their military governments  made them decide to be with the Russians and not the Americans, said Adje, a retired Senegalese colonel who previously served in Mali and Burkina Faso under West African regional bloc ECOWAS.

Supporters of Nigers junta have mobilized for protests on Saturday to rail against the presence of US military personnel still stationed in the country. There are approximately 648 US military personnel still deployed in Niger, according to the White House.

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are already in the pocket of the Russians, Adje said.

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Over the course of the day, 81 combat clashes occurred at the front line. The Russians launched 72 airstrikes, 2 missile strikes, and 116 attacks using multiple-launch rocket systems.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook; information as of 18:00 on 12 April

Quote: "During the day, the aviation of the Defence Forces attacked 12 clusters of personnel, weapons and military equipment, as well as four enemy anti-aircraft missile systems. In addition, Ukraines forces and means of air defence destroyed one Kh-59 guided aircraft missile.

Units of Rocket Forces targeted two air defence systems and one enemy electronic warfare station."

Details: No offensive actions were recorded on the Kupiansk and Lyman fronts.

On the Bakhmut front, Ukrainian soldiers repelled 24 attacks in the settlements of Bilohorivka, Luhansk Oblast; Verkhnokamianske, Spirne, Vyimka, Rozdolivka, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivske and Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast, where the Russians attempted to improve their tactical position with the help of aviation.

On the Avdiivka front, Ukrainian defenders repelled 16 attacks in the areas of the settlements of Novokalynove, Novobakhmutivka, Berdychi, Pervomaiske and Netailove of Donetsk Oblast, where the Russians tried to oust Ukrainian units from the established positions.

On the Novopavlivka front, the Armed Forces continue to restrain the Russians in the areas of the settlements of Heorhiivka, Novomykhailivka, Kostiantynivka and Vodiane in Donetsk Oblast, where the Russian forces tried to break through the defence of Ukrainian troops 19 times.

On the Orikhiv front, the Russians, supported by aircraft, attacked Ukrainian defenders' positions three times in the Staromaiorske area of Donetsk Oblast.

On the Kherson front, the Russians intention to drive Ukrainian units out of the bridgeheads on Dnipros left (east) bank remains unchanged. During the day, the Russian forces launched five unsuccessful attacks on Ukrainian troops' positions in the vicinity of the village of Krynky, Kherson Oblast.

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On the evening of 12 April, Russian troops opened fire on the village of New-York in Donetsk Oblast, killing a woman and wounding a man.

Source: Vadym Filashkin, Head of Donetsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "The shelling of New-York has resulted in at least one fatality and one casualty.

The Russians struck the town tonight, killing a woman, 64 and wounding a man, 60."

Details: Rescue workers and paramedics are on the scene, providing assistance to the man injured in the attack.

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The effort to rebuild Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge could overwhelm a key federal emergency fund that is already facing more requests for help than it can handle.

As The Washington Posts Jacob Bogage reports, the Federal Highway Administrations emergency relief fund currently contains about $890 million in reserves, but has a backlog of requests for repair projects around the country totaling $2.1 billion. Funds are distributed according to need rather than in the order the requests are received, and the bridge in Baltimore could rise to the top of the priority repair list  potentially wiping out the emergency fund at the same time.

Rep. Mike Quigley of Illinois, the senior Democrat on the House Appropriations transportation subcommittee, told the Post that Congress will need to act to boost the emergency fund. We have to come to realization that it needs to be tripled, quadrupled, just to have that money ready so were not debating it while one of our key arteries is broken, he said. We have to be honest with ourselves. This fund always needs more money. Its critical for people, for our economy, for safety.

Quigley called for any legislation on the issue to be bipartisan, which could be a challenge with some House Republicans questioning the need for the federal government to provide new funding for infrastructure repair.

Getting the funds flowing: Maryland has already received $60 million in emergency funds in the immediate aftermath of the collapse of the bridge, which fell into the Patapsco River after being hit by a container ship on March 26, with a loss of six lives. The money has been used to handle traffic disruptions caused by the closure of a portion of I-695, known as the Baltimore Beltway. Local officials are expected to request upwards of $1 billion to pay for recovery and rebuilding, and some experts think the project could cost even more than that in the end.

Lawmakers from Maryland released a bill Thursday, dubbed the Baltimore BRIDGE Relief Act, that would guarantee that the federal government covers 100% of the cost of the bridge project  a level of support that President Joe Biden vowed to provide soon after the disaster occurred.

How the larger funding plays out could get complicated. With other states already waiting in line for help from the emergency fund  California alone has more than $700 million in unfunded needs for emergency repairs to federal highways  there may be pressure to find other sources of money.

Some Republicans have called for insurance companies to bear the weight of the rebuilding effort. While the White House has agreed that private insurers need to play a role in paying for the reconstruction, it could take years to reach a final settlement, most likely making federal participation a necessity. Some conservatives have also called for any new infrastructure spending to be offset with spending cuts elsewhere  an option that is unlikely to pass muster with Democrats.

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Other sources lawmakers could consider include funds that have already been allocated for infrastructure use. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, for example, created a grants program focused specifically on bridge repair, and according to the Post, Maryland could conceivably receive between $5 billion and $6 billion over two years from that program if officials opt to support the reconstruction project.

The bottom line: Led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, demolition experts are clearing the wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, and officials say the main channel to the Port of Baltimore could be open by the end of May. Meanwhile, lawmakers will battle over who pays for the massive reconstruction project, and how.

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Sailors use HELP sign made of palm trees to escape stranding on remote Pacific island

A trio of sailors who spent more than a week stranded on a remote, uninhabited atoll in the Pacific were rescued by the US Coast Guard after a search and rescue team spotted a giant sign spelling HELP the men had constructed from palm fronds on the beach.

The sailors, identified as three men in their 40s with sailing experience, set out from Polowat Atoll, southeast of Guam, on 31 March. Their boat, a 20-foot open skiff with an outboard motor, sustained damage and the men were stranded on Pikelot Atoll.

Nearly a week later, on 6 April, the US Joint Rescue Sub-Center in Guam got a distress call from a relative of the sailors, saying they hadnt returned from Pikelot.

The call prompted US officials to begin a rescue operation spanning an area of over 78,000 nautical miles.

The following day, a US Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft operating out of Kadena Air Force Base in Japan spotted the mariners, along with a crude shelter theyd erected on the beach and dropped them survival packages.

The sailors were stuck on Pikelot Atoll, an uninhabited island, for over a week (US Coast Guard)

In a remarkable testament to their will to be found, the mariners spelt out HELP on the beach using palm leaves, a crucial factor in their discovery. This act of ingenuity was pivotal in guiding rescue efforts directly to their location, one of the operations search and rescue coordinators, Lieutenant Chelsea Garcia of the US Coast Guard, said in a news release.

On 8 April, a US Coast Guard HC-130J Hercules aircraft flew over the stranded men, dropping a radio to the missing sailors.

The men radioed back that they were in good health and had access to food and water, according to the Coast Guard. They had been surviving by eating coconuts.

The next day, a Coast Guard ship, the USCGC Oliver Henry, which had been diverted from its original course to join the rescue, picked up the sailors.

In another twist, one of the Coast Guard personnel involved in the rescue, Petty Officer 2nd Class Eugene Halishlius, was related to the missing men.

One of the Coast Guard rescuers was actually related to the missing men (US Coast Guard)

I could see on their faces, Whoa! Whos this guy pulling up that can speak our language? he told CNN on Thursday.

Its a crazy world, I actually found out Im related to them! he added, describing the missing men as third and fourth cousins.

The men have now been safely returned to their departing point of Polowat Atoll.

The Coast Guard urged all sailors to equip their vessels with emergency position indicating radio beacons.

The remote atoll was the site of a similar rescue in 2020 when another group of three washed up on Pikelot when their boat ran out of fuel.

They spelt out SOS on the beach and were later rescued by a multi-country team.
SALINA, Kan. (KSNW)  Salina Public Schools sent out an email to families on Wednesday, informing them that they are changing the school day schedule for elementary schools.

School will now begin at 8:15 a.m. and be dismissed at 3:30 p.m. The changes will go into effect on Monday, April 15.

In order to meet the required 1,116 instructional minutes required by the state, we need to extend the elementary school day by 20 minutes, the email reads.

WPS offering open enrollment next school year

KSN reached out to the school district Thursday afternoon. They sent back the following information:

During our KSDE audit this week, we were notified that the way we are scheduling recess is an issue. The auditor indicated the expectation is that recess is not directly prior to or directly after lunch. Instead, they indicated it should be mid-morning or mid-afternoon, said Salina Public Schools. The adjustments allow us to count recess time as attendance hours.

The new schedule will be in place for the remainder of this school year.

We understand that changes to the school day impact families. We want to assure you that weve carefully considered all factors before making this decision. Our priority remains providing the best possible education for our students, the email reads. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work together to create an environment where every student can thrive.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.
Sir Salman was told by doctors he was lucky to escape the knife attack with his life

Sir Salman Rushdie has described the moment he saw his would-be killer coming in hard and low - a squat missile before he was stabbed more than a dozen times in a lecture hall in 2022.

In his first television interview about the attack, the novelist said he had sometimes envisioned a killer striking in a public place, and his immediate thought was: So, its you. Here you are.

The Booker Prize winner was told by doctors he was lucky to escape with his life, saying the man who stabbed him had no idea how to kill a man with a knife.

Sir Salman, 76, was attacked 33 years after a $3 million bounty was put on his head by the then supreme ruler of Iran, who accused him of insulting Islam in his 1988 novel The Satanic Verses.

His account of the stabbing and his recovery, called Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder, will be published next week.

The author lost his right eye in the attack by Hadi Matar, a 24-year-old American of Lebanese descent who had expressed support for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard on social media.

He was about to give a lecture at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state when he saw movement in the audience, he told Anderson Cooper of CBSs 60 Minutes show.

I was seated at stage right, he said, reading an extract from the book. Then, in the corner of my right eye  the last thing my right eye would ever see  I saw the man in black running toward me down the right-hand side of the seating area. Black clothes, black face mask. He was coming in hard and low. A squat missile.

I confess, I had sometimes imagined my assassin rising up in some public forum or other, and coming for me in just this way. So my first thought when I saw this murderous shape rushing towards me was, So, its you. Here you are.

He told Cooper that after decades of living in New York without any security, believing the threat to him had faded: It felt like something coming out of the distant past and trying to drag me back in time, if you like, back into that distant past, in order to kill me.

Sir Salman spent six weeks in hospital after the attack, which also left him with facial scars, a partially paralysed lower lip and a badly damaged left hand.

He recounted: One of the surgeons who had saved my life said to me, First you were really unlucky and then you were really lucky. I said, Whats the lucky part? and he said Well, the lucky part is that the man who attacked you had no idea how to kill a man with a knife.

The attack on him lasted 27 seconds and only ended when members of the public tackled the knifeman, who was arrested at the scene.

Sir Salmans exclusive newspaper interview, an in-depth conversation with The Telegraphs Mick Brown, will be online at telegraph.co.uk from 2am on Monday April 15.

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(KRON)  A man who allegedly pointed a firearm at a group of construction workers Wednesday evening was arrested following a standoff, according to the San Bruno Police Department. San Bruno PD received a call at around 5 p.m. Wednesday regarding an altercation on the 100 block of Elm Avenue.

A local resident had reportedly got into an argument with construction workers in the area. During the argument, police said, a 58-year-old man pointed a gun at the workers.

Over 400 stolen vehicles recovered in Oakland, East Bay, 181 arrested

In a combined agency effort, San Bruno PD, along with the South San Francisco Police Department, Hillsborough Police Department and San Mateo Police Department, used de-escalation tactics to negotiate with the barricaded suspect. The man was taken into custody without incident.

Once the man was in custody, officers searched his residence and located several firearms, police said. The man was booked into San Mateo County Jail on felony charges related to assault with a firearm. San Bruno PD declined to release his identity.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Nearly two months after a locally-funded migrant welcome center closed, $19.6 million in federal funding to support asylum seekers is headed to San Diego County.

On Friday, the Department of Homeland Security announced plans to distribute $300 million in grants to communities across the country through the Federal Emergency Management Agencys Shelter and Services Program, which funds support services for migrants.

San Diego County is one of 55 recipients slated to receive the grant money, according to DHS. The Catholic Diocese of San Diego also received $19.6 million to help assist with migrant arrivals through the program.

Migrant shelters in Tijuana down to as little as 50% capacity

In a statement, Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas confirmed the countys funds from the program will go towards creating a sustainable, federally funded migrant transition center to aid asylum-seekers on the way to their final destination and prevent street releases.

I am thrilled to announce that after months of tirelessly advocating for funding, the federal government has allocated $19.6 million to support the thousands of asylum-seekers who are coming across our border, Vargas said.

As we learn more details on the funding in the coming days and weeks, she continued, I look forward to working with our partners to maximize these critical federal dollars for our region.

The Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to pursue reviving the migrant transitional center using federal dollars in the wake of the sites premature closure after four months in operation due to the depletion of funds. Supervisor Jim Desmond was the lone dissent in the vote.

Between October 2023 and when it closed February 2024, $6 million in county funds were allocated to run the welcome center.

While it was open, migrants were brought to the center by U.S. Customs and Border Protection after processing, where they were then connected with resources such as food, shelter or travel support.

Since then, however, Border Patrol has resumed its so-called street releases, dropping off hundreds of migrants at various transit centers without direction or support to help get them to their final destination.

These street releases have caused confusion for migrants and inundated aid groups who have been trying to step in to fill the gap the closure of the transitional center left.

States, including California, continue to see significant numbers of migrant encounters at our southern border. The situation in California became even more pressing this week, California Sen. Laphonza Butler wrote in a February letter pushing for federal migrant services funding.

Without the intervention this transitional facility was able to provide, Border Patrol will now be forced to release an estimated 800-1000 migrants a day without orientation or basic humanitarian service at regional transit stations, she continued.

24,000 migrants released in San Diego since late February, county supervisor says

A delegation of San Diegos congressional leaders also sent a similar letter to the Department of Homeland Security.

The San Diego area has a long tradition of welcoming individuals seeking asylum and refuge with open arms, said Rep. Juan Vargas in a statement on Friday. This funding will help make sure they have the resources they need to continue their important work to provide migrant communities with food, shelter, and other critical services.

When the money will be able to be used for the migrant center is unclear at this time. According to DHS, the $300 million will be dispersed in two allocations  $275 million distributed first followed up by $25 million later this year to accommodate evolving operational requirements.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
SC man dies after being injured at industrial business in Lancaster County

South Carolina workplace safety officials are investigating a mans death after he was injured at an industrial business Thursday afternoon in Lancaster County, according to officials.

Kennyatta Abrams, 47, of Lancaster, died at Medical University of South Carolina Hospital-Lancaster after the incident around 4 p.m, a statement from Lancaster County Coroner Karla Knight-Deese said.

The incident happened at Chief Buildings, 992 Quality Drive, Lancaster, according to an emailed statement to The Herald from a spokesperson for the S.C. Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. That agency administers South Carolinas division of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA.)

All work fatalities must be reported to OSHA, according to state officials.

Chief Buildings opened its Lancaster plant in 2022, according to the company website and past coverage in The Herald. The company makes metal buildings.

Chief Industries, the parent company of Chief Buildings, released a statement about the incident Friday afternoon.

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a member of our Chief family who was involved in a fatal accident at our facility in Lancaster, South Carolina, the statement said. His dedication and commitment to the team will be greatly missed by all of us. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. We appreciate the support of our stakeholders during this difficult time.
A South Carolina man will spend 30 years in federal prison for killing his wife, Nicole Zahnd Florentine, and burying her in Kentucky.

PREVIOUS: Rock Hill man pleads guilty to killing wife, burning her body

In October 2023, Lawrence Florentine, 56, of Rock Hill, pleaded guilty.

Investigators found his wifes body partially charred with a gunshot wound to the head in June 2020.

Florentine was found two weeks later in Colorado.

We hope this sentence brings some measure of closure to her loved ones as they remember Nicole, the U.S. attorney for the District of South Carolina stated in part in a news release.








Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) unveiled a resolution Friday demanding equal educational opportunity, basic civil rights protections, and freedom from erasure for LGBTQ students.

The resolution, which has 17 Democratic co-sponsors, supports the objectives of the Rise Up for LGBTQI+ Youth in Schools Initiative, which advocates for LGBTQ-inclusive education policies and curriculum.

As a former teacher, I know that school shouldnt be about just surviving  it should be about thriving, Takano said Friday. LGBTQ students across the country who are being targeted by this wave of culture war politics are being denied safety in the educational institutions that are supposed to support them.

More than 480 bills targeting LGBTQ people have been introduced in state legislatures this year, according to the ACLU, including at least 192 bills that explicitly threaten the rights of LGBTQ students and teachers. A Washington Post analysis in March found that school hate crimes targeting LGBTQ people rose sharply in 2021 and 2022, climbing fastest in states that have passed restrictive education laws.

Legislation seeking to restrict talk of sexuality and gender identity in the classroom and ban certain books from schools and public libraries has picked up steam in recent years, particularly among Republicans.

Such laws often disproportionately impact LGBTQ people: Seven of the top 10 most challenged library books in 2023 have LGBTQ themes or characters, the American Library Association said this week.

In September, Senate Republicans read passages from books with sexual content into the record to defend banning certain titles from schools. Among them was Maia Kobabes Gender Queer, which the author has said is not meant for young children.

In a December fundraising email, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said an increase in the number of young people who openly identify as something other than straight makes him worry what students are being taught in school.

Schatz, the resolutions lone sponsor in the Senate, said Friday any discrimination against LGBTQ students will not be tolerated in Congress.

Every child should feel safe at school, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Jamie Dimon is chairman and CEO at JPMorgan Chase, while David Solomon holds those same two roles at Goldman Sachs, as does Brian Moynihan at Bank of America. Shareholders at all three banks will vote soon on whether to split the responsibilities between two people. Credit: Bloomberg

The debate over splitting the chairman and CEO roles at banks is back.

Shareholders at JPMorgan Chase , Bank of America and Goldman Sachs will vote soon on whether those banks' chief executives should also chair their boards. Big banks have mostly fended off those pushes in the past, and they're arguing now that the addition of lead independent directors who fulfill chairman-like duties provide an effective check on CEOs.

Backers of the split say that's not enough. Much like the U.S. government, corporate leaders need to have proper checks and balances, said Paul Chesser, director of the corporate integrity project at the conservative-leaning National Legal and Policy Center. The group has put the issue up for a vote at Goldman Sachs.

"If it's a chairman and a CEO, there really is no counter to them unless there's some real egregious conduct going on," Chesser said.

The proxy advisory firms Glass Lewis and Institutional Shareholder Services are backing the shareholder proposals at Bank of America and Goldman Sachs. Their recommendations aren't yet available for the vote at JPMorgan Chase, where Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon this week criticized the "constant battle" over the issue and decried the "undue influence" of proxy advisers, noting that Glass Lewis and ISS are owned by foreign companies.

"There is no evidence this makes a company better off," Dimon wrote in his annual letter to shareholders.

Some researchers who study the issue say Dimon has a point. Studies have shown "quite consistently" that there's no correlation between splitting the chairman-CEO role and a company's financial performance, said Ryan Krause, a professor at Texas Christian University's business school.

There is, however, some evidence that companies with a separate chairman are less prone to instances of wrongdoing, Krause said.

That issue proved salient in 2016, when a series of consumer abuse scandals unfurled at Wells Fargo, which was led at the time by Chairman and CEO John Stumpf. Stumpf would soon be out, and the bank would split the chairman and CEO roles .

Many large U.S. banks still have joint chairman and CEO positions. Citigroup is a notable exception, as is the auto lender Ally Financial.

But more companies are shifting toward splitting the roles, with 59% of S&P 500 company boards reporting that they had a separate chair and CEO last year, according to the executive search firm Spencer Stuart. That's up from 45% a decade ago and from just 16% in 1998, the firm said in an annual report on board trends .

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In the banking industry, support for splitting the chairman and CEO jobs has ebbed and flowed at different times.

Cincinnati-based Fifth Third Bancorp stripped the chairman title from then-CEO Kevin Kabat in 2010, amid fallout from the 2008 financial crisis. But eight years later, the bank gave the chairman job to then-CEO Greg Carmichael , pointing to improvements in profitability and technology during his tenure as chief executive.

Bank of America shareholders also split the CEO and chairman roles after the financial crisis, which meant that Brian Moynihan was simply the CEO when he was hired in 2010. By 2015, Bank of America's board decided to bestow him the chairman title. Since then, BofA investors have shot down proposals to split the roles in 2017, 2018 and 2023.

The question will come up again at the bank's annual shareholder meeting on April 24.

John Chevedden, a BofA shareholder who's putting the issue up for a vote, said in his proposal there's "clearly a need for a change" due to the company's lagging stock price. Bank of America and other large companies' complexities "increasingly demand that 2 persons fill the 2 most important jobs in the company." The proposal says that the change could be phased in the next time there's a new CEO.

The bank's board is recommending that shareholders vote against the proposal, saying that its current structure provides "robust and effective independent board oversight." That setup includes a strong lead independent director  former Pepsi executive Lionel Nowell  who regularly meets with other independent directors, Moynihan, shareholders and regulators.

The board at JPMorgan Chase, which is facing a similar vote at its May 21 meeting, also pointed to the "strong, effective counterbalance" provided by its lead independent director, former NBCUniversal Chairman Stephen Burke. In recommending that shareholders oppose the push to split the duties, the board noted a lack of "empirical evidence demonstrating a significant relationship" between a separate chairman and CEO and strong company performance.

"With Mr. Dimon serving as both Chairman and CEO, the Firm has delivered ROTCE that has consistently and substantially outperformed" its peers, the bank's board wrote, referring to return on tangible common equity, which is a common measure of shareholder returns.

Goldman Sachs' board also pushed back on the idea. It said that its lead director is active, setting the agenda for meetings, focusing on the effectiveness of the board, being a liaison for independent directors and management and repeatedly meeting with shareholders and regulators.

"We are committed to independent leadership on our board," the Wall Street bank stated, adding that it has repeatedly disclosed it would "not hesitate to appoint an independent chair" if its governance committee decided that step was necessary.

Goldman also argued that the combined role has provided for "strong and effective leadership" from Chairman and CEO David Solomon, particularly during turbulent times in the economy and the regulatory environment.

Walter Gontarek, a visiting fellow at the UK's Cranfield University who has studied the corporate governance reform proposal at U.S. banks , said that combining the two roles can offer "handsome benefits as firms can navigate fast moving developments."

Gontarek found in a recent paper that firms with a dual chairman and CEO can take on greater risk, but that linkage broke down when companies were subject to heightened regulatory supervision.

"The so-called agency costs of CEO duality can be mitigated when regulatory reach is greater," said Gontarek, a former banker who is CEO and chair of the London-based business lender Channel Capital Advisors.

Bank regulators in Europe generally don't permit the industry to combine the CEO and chair roles.

"The next few years will tell us if the U.S. market moves towards the European model in discouraging CEO and chair combinations or reverses course," Gontarek said.

One relevant factor is that big banks' investors are from all over the world, and combined chairman-CEOs are almost "unheard of' in parts of Europe, said Courteney Keatinge, senior director of ESG research at the proxy advisory firm Glass Lewis.

Keatinge, whose firm is recommending that shareholders vote for the chairman-CEO split at Bank of America and Goldman Sachs, acknowledged that academic research on the issue is mixed. But she said a more independent board led by a separate chair is "more likely to ask the tough questions" and challenge management when needed.

"We really want as much independence as possible on the board because it ensures that shareholders' interests are being served," Keatinge said.

Krause, the Texas Christian University professor, said there are several trade-offs involved, pointing to potentially faster decision-making by a chairman-CEO but also the potentially increased ability to challenge CEOs if the two roles are split.

Ultimately the issue comes down to what board chairs and CEOs are "doing with their power," the type of social dynamics that are harder to capture in academic research, Krause said.

"It really matters who chairs the board, and by 'who' I don't just mean, 'Are they the CEO or not?'" Krause said. "I mean the person, the values, the governing priorities that they bring to that role, and that's very difficult to measure."
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze (L) and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz speak during a press conference after their meeting at Federal Chancellery Kay Nietfeld/dpa

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the renewed effort by Georgia's ruling party to pass a potentially Russian-style "foreign agent" law during a visit to Berlin by the ex-Soviet country's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

Scholz said he opposed the legislation in its current form and hoped it would not get the approval of lawmakers.

"We believe that such laws are not needed," the chancellor said, noting that Berlin was joined in its criticism by top officials in the European Union and NATO.

Georgia was granted EU candidate status last year.

Georgia's ruling Georgian Dream party announced earlier this month that legislation aimed at curbing foreign-funded non-governmental organizations is to be reintroduced.

It requires all NGOs receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register with the government and have their books opened annually. A similar law is in force in Russia, Georgia's powerful northern neighbour.

"The law on the transparency of foreign influence is in full compliance with all legal principles and fundamental rights," Kobakhidze said in the German capital.

He was "deeply convinced" that it could make an important contribution to "guaranteeing true democracy in Georgia."

The government withdrew an earlier version in March last year, following days of demonstrations in Tbilisi. Opponents believe the government will use the law to place a check on civil society and opposition movements.

Defending the initiative, Georgian Dream parliamentary leader Mamuka Mdinaradze said this month that NGOs were using foreign support to promote programmes favourable to the opposition, including disseminating "pseudoliberal ideologies," promoting LGBT propaganda and undermining Georgia's Orthodox Church.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze (L) welcomed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in front of the Federal Chancellery. Kay Nietfeld/dpa
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A newly released warrant has revealed new details in the suspicious disappearance of a 61-year-old woman several weeks ago.

Cristina Ase, a local nursing director, can be seen on seven billboards and thousands of flyers across the Portland metro area. An investigation showed she left her home near Southeast 123rd Avenue and Southeast Fifth Street on the morning of March 26 and hasnt been seen since.

Teen shot at girlfriends family before kidnapping, police chase: Gresham police

To see her one day and not the otherI want her to be alive, and I want her to be found, but its just been too long. I feel helpless, Dalia Almada said.

Authorities said Ases husband reported her missing that night after the Rose Linn Care Center told him she never showed up for her shift. Her coworkers also called authorities that day.

She normally reports to work at about 7:30, her boss, Brady Waldroff, said. She had texted another work colleague she was going to be late and then never showed up. When I reached out to her husband, her husband was shocked when I told him she hadnt gotten to work.

Ases 2013 dark gray RAV4 was mysteriously found outside her home a day after her disappearance. Investigators said they found a roll of duct tape and several hairs inside, according to a search warrant document released on April 9.

Officials also said the rearview mirror was askew and there appeared to be a powdery white residue, like a cleaning agent, coating several surfaces on the interior.

A vigil is held in West Linn for a missing woman from Vancouver. April 5, 2024 (KOIN).

Brady Waldroff, Executive Director of Rose Linn Care Center, was concerned when his employee, Cristina Ase did not show up for her shift the morning of Mar. 26, 2024. (KOIN)

The Vancouver Police Department said 61-year-old Cristina Ases husband reported her missing on Tuesday, March 26. (Courtesy VPD)

According to phone records, Ase left her Vancouver apartment for work on Tuesday, as her husband reported, just after 6:30 a.m.

But instead of heading to her job in West Linn, Ases phone traveled south on I-205 to Portland  pinging off near the Southeast Foster Road exit at 6:47 a.m. A minute later, it arrived in a neighborhood north of Glenwood Park.

Records show her phone stayed in that area for three hours, during which Ase called in late to work at 7 a.m.

Geolocational data points classified as high certainty indicate that she was not stationary for the whole time  likely moving between the park itself and one or more residences, according to police.

At 10 a.m., the device moves again to the intersection of Southeast Flavel Street and 92nd Avenue for about five minutes before shutting off for the last time.

Body found floating in the Willamette River near OMSI

An investigation of Ases phone records revealed that she had misled her employer and husband as to her whereabouts on at least two other occasions  at least three times in about a year. On two of those occasions, she left home at 6:30 a.m. before notifying work she would be late 20 minutes later in the same way she had on the day of her disappearance.

Police said its unclear where she was at the time of these calls, but noted the Southeast Foster exit is exactly 20 minutes away from her home.

It is likelyshe has visited the area of Glenwood Park before the day of her disappearance, police said.

Oregon City man gets life sentence for killing wife in planned murder-suicide

Further details of Ases disappearance remain unclear. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is encouraged to contact Vancouver police.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
No former president has ever been put on criminal trial, but both the U.S. Secret Service and New York City Police Department said Friday that they are prepared to handle security at what is sure to be a media spectacle.

The U.S. Secret Service is prepared to effectively carry out our protective mission here in New York," Patrick J. Freaney, special agent in charge at the U.S. Secret Service's New York Field Office, said in a statement. "While operational security precludes us from going into specifics, the U.S. Secret Service will not seek any special accommodations outside of what would be required to ensure the continued safety of the former president."

Former President Donald Trump is charged with falsifying business records to cover up a payment he made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election so that she would not speak publicly about an alleged affair. Trump, who professes his innocence, has repeatedly tried to delay the trial, without success. Jury selection is set to begin Monday, April 15.

It is not just Trump's security that is potentially threatened at the trial. The former president has a record of inciting violence among his supporters and has used his Truth Social platform to attack Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Judge Juan Merchan, as well as the latter's family, resulting in a gag order.

Police say they are prepared.

"Planning for high-profile security events is very familiar ground for the New York City Police Department," NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban said Friday.

"In coordination with the U.S. Secret Service and the NYPD, we stand ready and able to protect the safety of everyone in the courthouse during this trial, maintaining a secure and safe courtroom environment in facilitating the needs of the court, the trial participants, the media and the general public," added Michael Magliano, head of court security in New York.
Secretary of the Florida Lottery visited local high school to raise awareness about Bright Futures

On Friday, the secretary of the Florida Lottery visited Raines High School.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

It raised awareness about the Bright Futures Scholarship Program which establishes lottery-funded scholarships for high school graduates.

If youre interested in attending vocational or technical, well cover that too... electrician or whatever it may be, Florida Lottery Secretary John F. Davis said.

READ: Community concert: United Way, CSX celebrates 100th anniversary of serving Northeast Florida

The Florida Bright Futures Program was established in 1997 and is funded by the Florida Lottery to reward Floridas brightest high school students for their academic achievements. Since its introduction, the Florida Bright Futures Program has granted over 950,000 scholarship awards.

For more information about the Bright Futures Scholarship program, visit Bright Futures.

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Usually, Im the only person in whatever group Im in to get excited about space stuff (the rest of the team here at Popular Mechanics being a notable exception). Its been a love of mine for my entire life, but to most people most of the time, its a mildly interesting passing thought.

Not today. Today, I got to watch a whole beach full of people care as much about space as I do. Because today, I traveled to Erie, Pennsylvania to see a once-in-a-lifetime event. I got to see a total solar eclipse.

Total solar eclipses are rare. One hasnt hit this area since the 1970s, and the contiguous U.S. wont experience another until 2044 (and even then, itll only graze Montana and North Dakota). So, its safe to say that its a big deal if you happen to be near the path of totality.

I was not, so I decided to travel out to Erie, and meet some friends and family in the area to all watch the eclipse together. Even being in the same country as a totality, it was impossible to resist going to see the spectacle.

But as hopeful and excited as I was, the day didnt start off looking great.

I picked up my sister, and we left for our destination at about 7:00 a.m., trying to beat the traffic we knew would clog the highways closer to go-time. We successfully beat the traffic, but spent the entire drive being spit on by rain drizzling down from low, dark clouds. Not what you want to see when youre awaiting a solar event.

Once we arrived, I opened up about six different weather prediction websites, and proceeded to panic, slowly and consistently, over the course of several hours. In this part of the country, low, heavy clouds dont give up their grip on the sky easily. They are weapons of seasonal affective disorder, and are loathe to relinquish their power. For a long time, it wasnt looking good.

And then 2:00 p.m. rolled around, and the whole sky cleared. Suddenly, it was the most beautiful day at the lake! We had a slight breeze, everyone applauded the skyit was sunny and warm and, for a bit, perfect viewing weather. But I couldnt help remembering the forecast I had been reading all day. 2:00 p.m. was supposed to be clear. At 3:00 pm, the clouds were supposed to return. And totality was scheduled for 3:16 pm.

I spent an hour intermittently watching the Sun through my eclipse glasses to marvel at the beauty of even a partial solar eclipse, and anxiously looking west to watch the clouds slowly but surely roll back in. I was tense, stressed, and pretty unable to calm down, despite all my loved ones trying to convince me it would work.

By 3:00 p.m., I was a wreck. The clouds were right up close to the Sun as it was whittled down to a sliver by the Moon, and the race was well and truly on. With just 16 minutes to go, every minute was stressful. I walked away from my group to pace on my own, begging the sky to please, just give me 16 minutes. And then 15. And then 10. And then 5. 4. 3. 2. 1.

Zero.

The lights on the whole world shut off. People cheered, and Im not embarrassed to say I fully collapsed and criedthe shock of the sight and relief that I really did get to see it hitting me all at once. This was the realization of a dream Ive had since childhood, and we made it. This was it. Totality. And it was everything I could imagine.

It. Was. Beautiful.

If youve never seen a total solar eclipse, Im not going to be able to convince you of how stark the difference is between 99 percent obstruction and true, 100 percent totality. The light on the world changes, the birds start chirping, it gets cold, and theres a ring in the sky that looks like something out of a fantasy novel. It cant be realits far too beautiful. Its this ring of glowing white and blue in the sky for just a moment, and it changes the look of everything.

It's not just night come early. Its the most convinced Ive ever been of magic.

And we got extra lucky. Because this eclipse happened during a solar maximum, which means the Sun was extra active. Throughout all of totality, if you looked at the bottom of the ring, youd see a little burst of orangea full blown solar flare you could see with the naked eye.

I cried, I hugged my friends and family, and we spent a little less than 4 minutes watching one of the greatest natural phenomena a human being can experience. And everyone got it. For once, I wasnt monologuing about why the thing we were witnessing was so cool, and why we should care. They got it. Because they could see it, too. We all could.

Less than four minutes later, the first flare of the Sun peaked back out from behind the Moon, in a flash referred to as the diamond ring. We all put our glasses back on, and watched the Sun re-emerge for a little while, marveling at the miracle we just saw.

Right now, were all watching the tail end of the eclipse in bits and pieces. It feels like it goes away a lot faster than it arrives, even though that makes no sense. Once the anticipation ends, time seems to move a lot more quickly.

Aaaaaaannnnddd there it goes. The Sun is back, the Moon is gone, and everything is normal. If you looked at the sky at this moment, you wouldnt think today was anything other than ordinary.

But we know. Because we were there. We saw it. And it was unbelievable.

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SELMA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  An employee with Abraham Lincoln Middle School in Selma is facing multiple charges of sexual assault involving a child.

The school district says the person is no longer working at the school site.

Selma Unified employee arrested on alleged child sexual abuse charges, released on bail

The Selma Police Department says they arrested Selma Unified employee 26-year-old Selena Perez on four sexual offense charges involving a child.

She was booked at the Fresno County Jail, police say she posted bail and bonded out of jail the same day.

Defense attorney David Mugridge says this kind of crime is serious and could take some time to resolve. Depending on the investigation, and whether it goes to trial, the maximum sentence could vary.

One of the things theyll look at more than anything else is, was there some actual sexual touching? said Mugridge. And if that has occurred, then, you know, the hurdles go up and the amount of time potentially goes up. But even in the misdemeanor case, if thats what they ended up doing, youre going to have some sexual registration.

The legal expert says investigators could possibly look to see if more victims were involved.

I wouldnt be a bit surprised if the police or the district attorneys are out there now, you know, thinking about that and evaluating whether or not potentially there are some other people that are out there that may be victims, said the defense attorney.

Selma Unified School District officials say Perez worked at Abraham Lincoln Middle School.

Superintendent Ed Gomes released a statement that reads in part:

The employee, who works at our middle school, has been removed from campus by our campus school resource officer, who is a police officer working at the school site. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement while they continue to investigate. We are providing support to affected students and families, and we have added extra counselors at the school site for any support for students and employees. Superintendent Ed Gomes.

Mugridge says the biggest advice he has for parents is to listen to their children if they are feeling uncomfortable being around someone.

I would urge parents, if they are parents of children that go to that school to keep their eyes open, be aware of anything, said Mugridge. And if you hear of anything, say something, report it.

The Selma Police Department encourages anyone with any additional information to contact them.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
LYNCHBURG, Va. (WFXR) Liberty University has announced that U.S. Senator Tim Scott will address the Class of 2024 as the keynote speaker at this years Commencement Main Ceremony on Friday, May 10.

Upon accepting the invitation, Senator Scott said, Like Dr. Costin and the rest of the leadership at Liberty University, my belief in Christ and the power of education are at the core of so much of my work. I am honored to be able to share words of wisdom and guidance for the future as the graduates and their families celebrate this important milestone.

Scott was first elected to the Charleston County Council, then to the South Carolina State House and the U.S. House of Representatives. Sen. Scott has served his home state of South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2013

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital recognized for excellent Black patient outcomes for maternal health

Having grown up in poverty in a single-parent home, Sen. Scott has worked as a tireless advocate for creating more opportunities for families living paycheck-to-paycheck to help children in poverty access quality education. He has also been a leader in tax reform, job training, and has brought innovative ideas to reinvest in the countrys distressed communities.

I am both honored and thrilled that my dear friend, Senator Tim Scott, will be joining us as our keynote speaker for Liberty Universitys 51st Commencement Ceremony, said Liberty President Dondi Costin. I have known Senator Scott for many years as a close neighbor and personal friend. He is a proven leader with a remarkable career as a businessman and public servant. Most importantly, his character, service, and devotion demonstrate the model characteristics and indispensable qualities of a true Champion for Christ.

Libertys 2024 Commencement Ceremony is expected to be one of the largest in the schools history. The ceremony is scheduled to begin on May 10 at 7:00 p.m. at Williams Stadium.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
More women are joining the U.S. military, and that means more women veterans are turning to the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) for healthcare services.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says women are the fastest-growing group served by VHA today. Since 2001, the number of women vets using VA services has more than tripled, with 625,000 enrolled last year.

But not all women veterans are able to access the care they need.

This week, the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee heard about the barriers for women vets and efforts by the VA to better serve them.

It is our obligation to ensure all women veterans encounter barrier-free access to healthcare and benefits, said Julie Howell, Associate Legislative Director for Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), in her testimony.

Howell spoke with our Washington News Bureau about the challenges for women veterans living with a spinal-cord injury or disease when trying to access care.

Theres a high level of complex need that they have, said Howell.

Howell pointed to barriers at the clinics.

Narrow doorways. Limited family bathrooms, said Howell. Something like a family bathroom is going to make more sense and its going to be appropriate because then you have enough space for you and your caregiver who may be another gender.

Senators shared stories from women veterans who have told them about challenges with limited resources, including not having enough clinics that provide mammograms or reproductive care.

One woman had to find a new doctor for her third pregnancy because her prior one was no longer willing to work with the VA, said Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS).

I heard from a veteran who was looking for care at American Lake VA, which was close to where she lived, but the womens clinic was completely full, said Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA).

The VA said it is prioritizing access to womens care, including preventative care and mental health services.

To address gender-specific health concerns, weve developed several primary healthcare policies, one of which includes assigning a woman to a trained womans health primary care provider, should she choose to have that, said Dr. Erica Scavella, Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Clinical Services at the VHA. As of September 2023, all healthcare systems have at least three primary care providers who are specializing in womens health.

Veterans warn there is still more work that needs to be done to make sure women vets arent being left behind.

What were asking of VA is that they recognize that if you were to build a system for the neediest veteran in your care, it doesnt take away from anybody else, said Howell.

Congress examines how to address rising childcare costs for families & providers

More affordable childcare is needed nationwide, but many centers are struggling just to cover operating costs.

Weve been in survival mode for a while, said Amy Brooks, executive director at the Early Care and Education Association.

Thats how Amy Brooks describes the current environment for childcare centers. She operated one for 20 years in New Hampshire and she said workforce is one of the biggest barriers for providers.

Trying to balance keeping childcare affordable in a payroll heavy industry and not putting that burden directly on to parents, she said.

Brooks said many providers wont raise their prices which means its difficult to boost pay for employees.

Any other small business, they charge the customer enough to help cover the cost of their workforce and their cost of operating, in child care were not able to do that, she said.

This week, Brooks voiced those concerns directly to Congress during the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

I work with these child care businesses on a daily basis and they tell me they are struggling to reach the break even point, said Brooks during the congressional hearing.

Brooks said increasing prices at child care centers means fewer families who can afford those services.

This comes as one national study found this growing child care crisis is leading to $122 billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue every year. Federal data also shows thousands of people have to stay home from work each month because of childcare problems.

Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen believes something has to change.

Families across America are relying on us to help childcare providers stay open and provide affordable care options, said Sen. Shaheen, (D) New Hampshire.

Republican Senator Joni Ernst believes states may have some of the answers. She pointed to her home state of Iowa and how the governor helped create thousands of new childcare center openings.

Governor Reynolds in my home state of Iowa is setting an example we can all learn from, she incentivized employers to provide childcare and encouraged local governments to collaborate with businesses of all sizes to address their communitys childcare shortages, said Sen. Ernst, (R) Iowa.

During the congressional hearing, some experts also suggested expanding access to various childcare options.

State and local lawmakers should consider establishing multiple levels of licensing standards with a goal of increasing those in home, faith based, and employer provided childcare, said Rachel Greszler from the Heritage Foundation

Some lawmakers want to make it easier for childcare centers to access federal funding. One proposal would allow nonprofit providers to participate in certain loan programs of the Small Business Administration.
Senate Democrats on Thursday issued a subpoena to a conservative legal advocate they are investigating in response to a series of ethics controversies at the Supreme Court involving lavish travel and gifts to justices.

Months after voting to authorize the subpoena, the Senate Judiciary Committee formally issued one to Leonard Leo, committee chairman Dick Durbin said. Democrats say the subpoena is necessary to better understand whether specific individuals and groups have used undisclosed gifts to gain access to the justices.

Mr. Leo has played a central role in the ethics crisis plaguing the Supreme Court and, unlike the other recipients of information requests in this matter, he has done nothing but stonewall the committee, Durbin said in a statement to CNN. This subpoena is a direct result of Mr. Leos own actions and choices.

Leo, a prominent conservative legal advocate and board co-chairman of the influential Federalist Society, confirmed Thursday he had been subpoenaed and vowed to not comply. Calling the subpoena unlawful and politically motivated, Leo said in a statement to CNN that he was not capitulating to what he described as the lefts dark money effort to silence and cancel political opposition.

Leos attorney, David Rivkin, sent a letter to Durbin asserting that he is not complying with the unlawful and politically motivated subpoena.

The committee voted along party lines in November to authorize subpoenas for Leo and GOP megadonor Harlan Crow in response to revelations of travel accepted by several Supreme Court justices, including Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito.

Crow paid for lavish trips for Thomas, which initially went unreported on the justices financial disclosure reports, according to a series of reports in ProPublica. Leo arranged a 2008 fishing trip attended by Alito, according to a ProPublica report. Alito similarly did not report the trip on his financial forms.

Its not clear why Durbin, an Illinois Democrat, waited months between the vote to authorize the subpoenas and actually issuing one.

The committee vote last fall broke down in partisan rancor as Republicans accused Democrats of playing politics and walked out of the hearing. If Leo ultimately does not comply, Democrats could be forced to hold a vote and find 60 votes in the split chamber to enforce it.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Senate Republicans vented their frustration after former President Trump helped derail a compromise House bill to extend Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) authority, sending lawmakers scrambling to find a Plan B to keep the nations intelligence agencies from losing their ability to spy on adversaries and terrorists.

Republican senators are warning that the nations spy program is about to go dark and that much of the intelligence that goes into President Bidens daily briefing could be lost, putting the nation at risk for surprise attacks.

Im very disappointed in President Trumps assessment of FISA. It is an essential tool. It may need to be amended but it is absolutely essential, as everyone in the intelligence community will tell you, said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), a senior member of the Senate Intelligence Committee.

Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chair Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) warned that failure to pass the bill would cripple the nations intelligence gathering.

If we cant spy on foreign terrorists and foreign spies overseas, were out of the intelligence business, he said.

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), another member of the Intelligence Committee, pointed out that much of the national security intelligence provided to Biden on a daily basis comes from information gathered under FISAs Section 702.

So I think we need to reform it, not end it, Cornyn said.

Asked what it would mean for national security if Congress killed FISAs warrantless surveillance authority under Section 702, Cornyn warned: Wed go dark on a lot of threats. Im hoping there can be a more extended conversation about what the reforms should look like.

Trump effectively derailed a House bill to extend the expanded surveillance powers by urging Congress on Friday to kill FISA.

KILL FISA, IT WAS ILLEGALLY USED AGAINST ME, AND MANY OTHERS. THEY SPIED ON MY CAMPAIGN!!! Trump fumed on his social media platform, Truth Social.

Nineteen House Republicans heeded that demand and blocked the bill from advancing on the House floor Wednesday. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and his allies scrambled Thursday to come up with a Plan B to reauthorize the program before the looming April 19 deadline, and the House Rules Committee met to tee up a similar version of the measure for a floor vote Friday.

A number of the GOP holdouts signaled that after negotiations, they were willing to help advance the measure on the House floor, but not all were ready to give it their OK, and Johnson can afford to lose only two votes.

Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) knocked Trump for imperiling the future of the national security program because of his personal beef with the FBI and other intelligence agencies over the wiretapping of former Trump campaign aide Carter Page during the 2016 election.

I know that for President Trump much of what happens in the world, in his mind, revolves around him, but FISA is actually designed to prevent another 9/11 or worse, and its been used extensively by our law enforcement to protect Americans. And if FISA were eliminated, American lives are going to be lost, he said.

Romney said that Trumps call to kill FISA is a very dangerous position.

If there are reforms that are necessary to avoid abuse, then by all means lets enact those reforms, but lets not throw out something thats so essential to the life and well-being of our citizens, he said.

Former Trump Attorney General William Barr told The Hill on Wednesday that Trumps opposition to FISA seems to be more motivated by personal animus than a substantive policy disagreement or concern for Fourth Amendment protections.

I think President Trumps opposition seems to have stemmed from personal pique rather than any logic and reason. The provision that he objects to has nothing to do with the provision on the floor, he said, referring to the legislation reauthorizing Section 702 of FISA, which stalled in the House on Wednesday after 19 Republicans voted to defeat a rule to advance it.

Barr warned that allowing the program to lapse would put the nation at risk of attack.

I hope for Republicans sake that there are no attacks, because if there are, I think there will be blood on peoples hands for doing this. Its reckless, he said.

Barr and multiple senators, including Rubio, pointed out that the FBI initiated a wiretap on Page, Trumps former campaign aide, in 2016 under Section 1 of FISA, which is not at issue in the House reauthorization bill. And they noted that the FBI obtained a warrant from a FISA court to surveil Page.

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) said the former president went too far in calling for the termination of FISA and Section 702.

I disagree with him, he said. Ive worked with the FBI, Ive seen the briefing on reforms, I believe that theyve addressed concerns, and I think the world is far too dangerous now for us to go dark.

Tillis said Republican lawmakers have to work with the Biden administration to keep the nation safe, and if Trump wants additional changes to the program, he should work with Congress on new reforms if hes elected president in November.

Its our job to take care of the business today. We can have this discussion with a future President Trump, but I believe if we go dark, it will make this country and this world a lot more dangerous, and thats why I support it, with all due respect to President Trump, he said.

Some Republicans, however, applauded Trumps intervention on the issue.

I agree completely, said Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), a libertarian-leaning conservative, of Trumps call to kill FISA.

Ive never felt like you can evade the Constitution to get information on Americans, he said. Inside the country, the Constitution applies, and this enormous 702 database I would guess has tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of bits of information on Americans.

I think 702 is a terrible program as applied to Americans, he said.

Its just the latest example of Trump undercutting Republican leaders on Capitol Hill at the last minute and putting high-priority legislation into a tailspin.

Trump killed the bipartisan Senate border security deal in February, telling GOP lawmakers at the time to oppose it because he didnt want to give Biden a legislative victory on border security.

And the former president made a run at derailing a $95 billion emergency foreign aid package that included $60 billion for Ukraine, which the Senate passed in February with 70 votes.

Trump made phone calls to GOP senators urging them to vote against the legislation, depriving it of majority support within the Senate Republican Conference.

But Republican senators are flummoxed that U.S. intelligence agencies may lose critical intelligence-gathering authority in a few days because Trump helped quash a House bill to extend that authority.

There are a lot of reason why we cant let it go dark. There are things that need to be fixed and reformed, and I think thats what the focus should be. But its a tool that we really need to keep America safe, Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.) said.

Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.), a member of the Intelligence Committee, pointed out that an individual who was threatening to shoot up churches in Idaho was recently arrested before he could carry out any attacks.

If that individual had gone in and murdered a bunch of people and then the news came out later, We saw it, we knew about it, but couldnt do anything about it, the whole country would be up in arms about it, he said.

Lankford acknowledged he doesnt know if that particular threat was stopped because of expanded FISA surveillance authority, but he argued: Its not occasional. There are threats coming at our country all the time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Altria (NYSE: MO) and British American Tobacco (NYSE: BTI) are two of the largest cigarette companies in the world. They both offer massive dividend yields, with Altria at 9.3% and British American Tobacco at 9.8%. That's in fact the main reason that most investors will be interested in either of these two companies. But which of these high-yield stocks is the better option?

Warning: You might want to avoid them both

Before looking at whether Altria or British American Tobacco is the better company, it is important to take a look at another issue. Do you want to own a cigarette company at all? Yes, the huge dividend yields are attractive, but the businesses that support those yields are facing a secular decline.

Image source: Getty Images.

In 2018 Altria produced 109.8 billion cigarettes. By 2023 that number had declined to 76.3 billion. Some simple math shows that this is a roughly 30% drop, which is clearly not a positive trend. The story is no different for British American Tobacco. In 2018 the company produced around 700 billion cigarettes. In 2023 the figure was just 555 billion. That's a roughly 21% drop.

If you buy either of these companies, you are investing in a business that is facing fundamental struggles. Yes, both companies have been able to raise cigarette prices to offset the impact of volume declines. But that can only go on for so long before a tipping point is reached and price hikes actually make the volume declines worse. Conservative income investors should probably avoid both of these high-yield stocks.

British American Tobacco has more positive news than Altria

If that warning isn't enough to keep you away from these cigarette makers, then the next question to ask is which one is better? The answer today appears to be British American Tobacco. There are two main reasons for this.

First, Altria's business is constrained to the U.S. market following its separation from Philip Morris International (NYSE: PM), which controls the Philip Morris brands outside the United States. The United States has been working very hard to dissuade consumers from smoking, and the industry has been in a very long downtrend. Given that this is basically the only market in which Altria operates, it is at a strategic disadvantage compared to British American Tobacco, which sells cigarettes in multiple markets around the world.

Although smoking is in a broad downtrend globally, each market is different. For example, British American Tobacco's organic revenue growth in 2023 was 0.6%. That gain was a mixture of weak U.S. performance of negative 6.4%, but a 6.8% gain from the rest of the world. While that doesn't actually speak to the ongoing volume declines, it does highlight the added flexibility that British American Tobacco has because of its global portfolio.

Story continues

Second, Altria has made too many strategic missteps. The first was breaking up its U.S. business and foreign business. Indeed, Philip Morris International has basically turned into a competitor now that it is entering the U.S. market with non-cigarette products. But that breakup was also followed up with failed investments in vape brand Juul and a marijuana company, both of which resulted in massive write offs. And now Altria is trying again with vaping, with its recent purchase of NJOY. That vape company is further along in its development, so the outcome this time might be better, but the list of errors here is still troublingly long.

For comparison, British American Tobacco was able to announce that its non-cigarette operations, which it calls new categories, achieved profitability in 2023. Notably, profitability was reached two years ahead of the company's internal targets. In other words, British American Tobacco appears to be executing better than Altria when it comes to moving beyond cigarettes.

The better of two struggling companies

Both Altria and British American Tobacco are facing huge headwinds in their most important line of business. Most investors will probably want to stay on the sidelines here despite the huge dividend yields on offer. But if you are willing to take on a risky investment, it seems like British American Tobacco has both a fundamental advantage (a global reach) and is executing better right now (relatively impressive success with non-cigarette investments). If you had to pick one of these two tobacco giants, British American Tobacco looks like the better choice right now.

Should you invest $1,000 in Altria Group right now?

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TAYLOR COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Three out of five members of the Money Chasin Forever Crip gang were sentenced to probation, and two received jail time on Thursday.

Documents: 5 members of Money Chasin Forever Crip gang accused of THC, marijuana dealing operation in Abilene

The five men were accused last summer of being connected to a THC and marijuana drug dealing operation in Abilene.

Four of the suspects were charged with Possession of Marijuana, Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substance, and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity.

A fifth suspect was arrested during a search warrant execution in April and was charged with Marijuana and Manufacture Delivery of Controlled Substance.

From left to Right: Frederick Johnson, Deshawn McDonald, Gabriel Martinez, Jaquon Thompson, and Jeremiah Martinez.

At their sentencing hearing in Taylor County on Thursday, they received the following sentences:

Fredrick Johnson  10 years probation Deshawn McDonald  10 years probation Gabriel Martinez  10 years probation Jaquon Thompson  10 years state jail Jeremiah Martinez  9 years state jail

The court waived Martinez engagement in organized criminal activity, giving him one year less in jail than that of Thompson.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
One person has died and multiple were injured after a vehicle crashed into a Department of Public (DPS) office in Brenham, Texas, officials confirmed Friday.

DPS can confirm that 14 people were injured in todays tragic incident at the Brenham DPS Office, the Texas DPSs Southeast Region said in a post on social platform X Friday.

One is now deceased, two have serious injuries, three were taken to a hospital & released, and eight were treated at the scene, the post reads.

DPS Sgt. Justin Reese said in a news conference that the truck used in the incident was a stolen 18-wheeler. He also identified the suspect as Clenard Park, 42, from nearby Chappell Hill.

Reese added that Park had come to the DPS office in the town on Thursday and was denied a commercial drivers license.

News of the crash was first reported earlier Friday by the DPSs Southeast Region in a post on social platform X. The post also said there were reports of multiple serious injuries.

The agency asked people to stay away from the area as investigators and medical personnel responded.

In a later post, the DPSs Southeast Region said the Texas Rangers are investigating this incident, and a suspect was arrested and that there is no further threat to the community.

Photos used by various outlets showed what appeared to be a large red truck surrounded by a field of debris in front of a building.

Local television station KHOU reported that, per scanner traffic, at least 14 people were hurt and six people were taken to hospitals. It also reported that the truck was stolen in the nearby community of Chappell Hill.

We believe this was a criminal act, Washington County Sheriff Otto Hanak told KHOU.

The Washington Country Sheriffs Office referred The Hill to the DPS.

The Hill has also reached out to the Brenham Police Department.

Updated April 12 at 10:30 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A towing company with an alleged history of illegal practices is getting all the wrong kind of attention after one of its drivers attempted to tow a moving vehicle with two occupants inside. Video of a Ram 5500 trying to hook a Toyota Corolla idling at a stoplight in San Francisco has gone viral, and prompted a statement from City Attorney David Chiu, who told ABC7 Bay Area that the truck driver's aggressive behavior is "unfortunately, not surprising," given Specialty Towing's history of breaking the law and generally unscrupulous behavior.

While it may not be surprising to Chiu, the video is still alarming. The Corolla's owners, Harry and Joanne Cho, told the San Francisco Standard they were running errands on Tuesday morning when the incident occurred. While the couple were sitting at a stoplight on the corner of Bush and Montgomery Streetmore or less situated in downtown SFthey noticed the yellow tow truck was reversing in their direction. The truck driver deployed its yoke and attempted to hook the front axle of the sedan, but Harry Cho quickly reversed out of reach of the tow arm and went around the Ram to escape. The truck then chased after the Corolla, as footage shared by ABC7 shows:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqvDedeuCl0

The whole incident was captured by SF resident and software engineer, Jeff Ferland. Ferland told SF Gate that he thought the tow truck was there to retrieve a Waymo autonomous vehicle in the adjacent lane, which was flashing its hazard lights. This would hardly be unusual considering the high rate of failure (and overall chaos) that disabled autonomous vehicles have brought to San Francisco traffic.

But when the tow truck sped after the occupied Corolla, rather than moving in front of the robotaxi, Ferland started recording. He told NBC Bay Area he had to get the incident on video because it was the most effective thing to do during the dangerous tow, adding that the attempt was just plain "wrong." Bystanders can be heard trying to get the driver's attention, and someone yells out, "What the f*** are you doing?" as the Corolla swerves around the Specialty Towing truck and escapes.

That's the tow truck taking off during a yellow, after the Corolla on the other side of the intersection.

Ferland called the San Francisco Police Department's non-emergency line to report the incident, but the SFPD claims it has no record of that conversation, per SF Gate . Harry and Joanne Cho reached out to the police immediately afterward, but the dispatcher who spoke with the couple was skeptical of their claims. Harry Cho told the SF Standard that the police "didn't really believe what we had to say." It wasn't until Thursdayafter the video went viralthat the SFPD confirmed it filed an official report, and an investigation is supposedly now underway.

Joanne Cho can't explain why the tow truck driver went after their car. She says that the 2017 Toyota Corolla is fully paid-off with a valid registration. Specialty Towing has declined to speak to the media to explain the illegal attempt, and workers from an affiliate company under a separate business name, Auto Towing, have been unhelpful as well.

Auto Towing owns Specialty Towing, among other subsidiaries, and it was blocked from receiving work contracts in San Francisco earlier this year. Chiu debarred it from working with the city after the district attorney's office charged the owners with "multiple felonies stemming from an alleged welfare fraud scheme."

The towing company has a history of targeting Spanish- and Cantonese-speaking people and illegally towing their cars, then making it difficult for them to retrieve their vehicles and pressuring them for payments in cash. The SFPD is now telling residents who've been targeted by Specialty Towing to contact the department immediately.

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TOPEKA (KSNT)  A Scranton man has learned his fate after admitting to causing a deadly 2023 crash that claimed the life of a Carbondale teen.

The Shawnee County District Attorneys Office says Anthony R. Tugwell is sentenced to 102 months, or eight-and-a-half years, with the Kansas Department of Corrections.

The sentence comes from a crash in February, 2023 which killed 16-year-old Alyssa Lee in Shawnee County. Kansas Highway Patrol troopers responded to the crash on Highway 75 in which a wrong-way driver had hit another vehicle head-on.

One dead in shooting at Resers Fine Foods in Topeka

Alyssa Lee died in the crash. She was a student at Santa Fe Trail School in Osage County and planned to pursue a career in the mental health field. Her father, James Lee, spoke with 27 News in late 2023 about Tugwells ongoing court case. He sent the following message to 27 News following the sentencing:

There is no justice, no fixing it, no making it better. The best we can hope for now is to claw something positive out of our pain, in hopes of lessening the pain of others in the future. To that end, Im not done. The closest I can get to justice is to continue to advocate for Alyssa, and the only way I know how to do that is to make the world a better place in her name. The entire judicial process is disgustingly absent of acknowledgement of victims, and it is now my primary mission in life to advocate on behalf of victims in pursuit of getting them the bare minimum of proper acknowledgement. Eight & a half years. What a disgusting joke. James Lee

Kansas workers plead guilty in $1M conspiracy case

Anthony Tugwells mugshot. (Photo Courtesy/Shawnee County Department of Corrections)

Alyssa Lee. (Photo Courtesy/Victoria McPherson)

Tugwell was arrested on Feb. 18, 2023 on charges of aggravated assault, driving under the influence and driving on the opposite direction of a highway. The Shawnee County District Attorneys Office later charged him on Feb. 22, 2023 with involuntary manslaughter, driving under the influence and other crimes.

One dead in shooting at Resers Fine Foods in Topeka

On Feb. 26, 2024, Tugwell agreed to plea guilty to three charges while two others were dismissed. These included:

Involuntary manslaughter; while under the influence of alcohol or drugs  guilty

Driving under the influence; 1st conviction; combination of drugs and alcohol  guilty

Reckless driving  dismissed

Improper crossover on divided highway  dismissed

Aggravated battery; knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement  guilty

For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Kansas City police officers Richard DuChaine and Charles Owen parked on the street and bolted up the front steps into a home, responding to a call for assistance for a 1-month-old child who wasnt breathing.

In our heads, we immediately knew what we needed to do, said DuChaine, recalling the November 2022 incident on Thursday evening.

His memory of that morning is clear, and he ran through those critical moments as he recounted his actions that day: Dad gave me the baby. I immediately had her on my hand, and once I felt that she wasnt breathing, I immediately started doing chest compressions.

Body camera video of the incident shows DuChaine and Owen, who arrived at the home before medical responders, attempting to revive the tiny, motionless body. Soon the infant shows signs of life and begins to cry.

She was taken to a hospital for evaluation, and the officers learned that the child was suffering from RSV. The moment hits close to home for DuChaine, who also learned that the girl hed helped to save had been born premature, like his own child.

Its very much a sigh of relief when it comes to it, he said of hearing the childs cries. I was happy that it was a great outcome for the family.

DuChaine and Owen were among those officers in the Kansas City Police Department honored by department officials Thursday evening in a ceremony that recognized life-saving actions by police.

In one such incident in February last year, two officers performed CPR on a woman and kept her alive until medical responders could arrive.

In another in May last year, an off-duty officer responded to a shooting along Interstate 70 near Grain Valley and tended to a mans gunshot wounds.

In another incident in April last year, an officer tended to a severe cut suffered by a man whod been in a fight and rode with him to the hospital in an ambulance while continuing to apply pressure to a wound while medical responders performed other tasks.

Lets leave here tonight knowing there are good people in the world and that you personally know them, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves told those in attendance at the Regional Police Academy Thursday. And there are more of them there than there are the not-so-good.

Also honored was Matthew Deloux, a KCPD officer who saved the life of a child who was choking at a Kansas City Royals game in May last year. Deloux had been off-duty at the annual School Day at the K event with his son having lunch in the parking lot when a boy grabbed his arm. He realized that the boy was distressed and not breathing.

Deloux jumped into action, bent the boy over and started striking his back in an effort to clear his airway. It took about a minute and several strikes to dislodge a piece of chocolate that had blocked his breathing.

Training and instincts kind of just kick in, Deloux said Thursday.

Said DuChaine, the officer who helped to save the unresponsive baby: Its a very rewarding thing to know that your actions helped save a life.
The government will allow authorities in Kharkiv to exempt businesses from local taxes amid Russia's ongoing assault against the city's energy infrastructure, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on April 12.

Russia has recently escalated its missile and drone strikes against Kharkiv amid a general onslaught against Ukraine's critical infrastructure. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said on April 1 that the attacks destroyed "almost all" of the city's energy infrastructure.

In the face of Russia's intensifying aggression, the decision was made to allow tax exemptions for local businesses, Shmyhal announced at the Congress of local and regional authorities under Ukraine's President.

"This applies to Kharkiv, but it also applies to all other territories. We have made it a universal mechanism," Shmyhal said.

The prime minister said that authorities would draw from the state budget to compensate for lost revenue.

During the meeting, Shmyhal also said that more than 40 billion hryvnias (approximately $1.01 billion) had been allocated to stimulate economic recovery in the energy sector.

Kharkiv has suffered near-daily assaults since Russia launched a large-scale attack on March 22 that destroyed the Zmiiv thermal power plant, among the largest in Kharkiv Oblast.

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Ukraine's government will allocate funds for the purchase of electronic warfare systems to protect Ukrainian critical infrastructure, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on April 12.

Russia has recently intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure, destroying several thermal power plants across the country, including the Trypillia plant, the main electricity supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts.

The top priority is the quick repair of damaged facilities and the restoration of the generation and distribution infrastructure, the prime minister said. The government is also working to decentralize the energy system and strengthen Ukrainian air defense, according to Shmyhal.

"The government has approved a decision that will allow financing the purchase of electronic warfare devices for critical infrastructure facilities," the prime minister announced at the Congress of local and regional authorities under Ukraine's President.

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In March, Russian attacks reportedly damaged or completely destroyed 80% of the thermal generating capacity of DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company.

Over the past three months, Russia has conducted around 30,000 strikes on Ukrainian territory, according to Ukraine's Interior Ministry.

Russia's March 22 strike destroyed the Zmiiv Thermal Power Plant, which is among the largest in Kharkiv Oblast, according to the state-owned energy company Centrenergo.

Recent attacks also damaged all power units of the Burshtyn Thermal Power Plant in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast and the Ladyzhyn Thermal Power Plant in Vinnytsia Oblast, DTEK's Executive Director Dmytro Sakharuk said.

Among Moscow's other targets in March were the Kaniv Hydroelectric Power Plant in Cherkasy Oblast, the Dnister Hydroelectric Power Plant in Chernivtsi Oblast, and Zaporizhzhia's Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant.

Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said on April 12 that Ukraine's energy system "is working steadily," but urged citizens to prepare for possible power outages.

Read also: Russia launches large-scale attack across Ukraine, hitting energy infrastructure

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North Alabama family choosing to go out of state for best care for babys cranial condition

Editors Note: This article has been updated to add information and correct errors.

MUSCLE SHOALS, Ala. (WHNT)  A North Alabama family has chosen to go out of state to get what they believe is going to be the best care for their babys cranial condition.

Baby Londyn is four weeks old and was diagnosed with a cranial condition that doctors say is only estimated to occur one in 2,000 births.

The genetic condition is called metopic craniosynostosis, and if it isnt treated through surgery, it can lead to a poor quality of life. If she has the surgery before she turns eight weeks old, they can do it endoscopically but past that mark, they would have to do an open repair.

The surgery is available in Alabama, but after speaking with other families who have received this diagnosis for their babies, Anna Cook and James Taylor decided to go to a specialist out of state to get the best care for Londyn.

Because they chose to seek care for her from a specialist out of state as opposed to getting it in Alabama, their insurance wont cover the surgery. But at the end of the day, the family says they just want what is best for their baby girl.

The family is asking for financial support. Theyve opted to set up a Venmo, CashApp and PayPal to help them cover the cost of the surgery and other expenses, as GoFundMe takes a percentage of donations from the beneficiaries.

You can donate through Venmo @annagracecook, CashApp at $annagracecook or PayPal @annagcook.

A Muscle Shoals fitness lab is also hosting a fundraiser Saturday at 8 a.m. for the family, and you can find more information on that event here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
Shortage of Kansas trade workers calls for increased recruiting efforts

TOPEKA (KSNT)  Many trade jobs in Kansas are seeing a shortage of workers, which is why one local group is working to recruit more young people to the industry.

This week, the Topeka Area Building Association held a career day for high schoolers in the area. At the event, they had construction, plumbing and all other trade jobs for the kids to feel out.

A spokeswoman for the association says its important to get young people excited about these jobs, especially young women, who have been underrepresented in the industry.

Girls work harder to prove themselves because so many people think they cant do it, CEO of the Topeka Building Association Katy Nelson said. If youre a female and youre out there and you dont think you can do it, anybody can do the work and most of the companies out there will train you.

A win for our workforce: Kelly signs workers compensation bill

The Building Association is planning to hold another similar event in Salina in the coming weeks.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
SISD students to help provide free dental treatment to over 800 residents

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  El Paso District Dental Society, Texas Mission of Mercy organization and the Socorro Independent School District (SISD) are partnering together to provide free dental treatment to the El Paso community.

The free dental event will be from Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 at Socorro High School, located at 10150 Alameda Avenue. On Friday, the event will be from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Saturday, the event will be from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

SISD students and dental professional providing free dental services | Anthony Pina  KTSM

SISD students and dental professional providing free dental services | Anthony Pina  KTSM

SISD students and dental professional providing free dental services | Anthony Pina  KTSM

The SISD students are a part of the dental program in the Health Professions Academy (HPA) and aim to assist over 800 patients, according to a news release from SISD.

HPA students will be assisting professionals with x-rays, data entry, chairside assistance, supplies, vitals registration and documentations, according to SISD.

According to SISD, walk-ins are welcomed until capacity is full and the services provided will be cleanings, fillings and extractions.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
(Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden has added more Chinese companies and individuals to an export blacklist than any US administration, as growing frictions between the worlds biggest economies continue to complicate global trade.

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The Commerce Department added six Chinese companies to its entity list on Thursday, bringing the tally of new targets during the Biden administration to 319. That compares to the 306 entities added during Donald Trumps time in the White House, when he oversaw a trade war with Beijing that hurt both countries economies.

The milestone exemplifies how the US government is increasingly using economic tools to achieve foreign policy goals, as Biden tries to kneecap Chinas access to cutting-edge chips and technology, citing national security concerns. President Xi Jinpings growing assertiveness toward Taiwan, which he claims as part of Chinas territory, has increased concerns in Washington that Beijing will use American technology to advance its military prowess.

Being tough on China, including through the restriction of its access to technology, is a theme that has bipartisan agreement, said Alfredo Montufar-Helu, head of the Conference Boards China Center. With a US election in November, both sides have incentives during these months of campaigning to show themselves as being as strong on China, he said.

Biden has left in place Trumps tariffs while adding to those measures, with a specific focus on curbs that block Beijings access to innovations capable of a wide swathe of applications, including those in the critical artificial intelligence sector.

In February, the US added eight companies to the entity list, quietly taking Biden past Trumps record, with six more added this week. The entity list has increasingly become one of Washingtons main weapons for sanctioning and punishing people, companies or other organizations in China and elsewhere on national security grounds.

Beijing has branded that policy an attempt to thwart its development. Imposing export controls on Chinese companies is typical economic coercion and unilateral bullying behavior, He Yadong, spokesman of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, said at a briefing in Beijing on Thursday when asked about the latest US actions.

Story continues

The US should immediately correct its wrongdoings and stop the unreasonable suppression of Chinese companies, He said. China will take all necessary actions to defend the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies.

In a seemingly tit-for-tat move, China sanctioned two US companies on Thursday, announcing that all the assets of the defense contractors in China would be frozen and their executives denied visas. That marked the latest in a series of largely symbolic sanctions against American companies involved in sales of weapons to Taiwan, with such measures to have little effect as the firms likely have no assets in China.

Once added to the US list, entities are rarely removed, although in an unusual concession, the Biden administration withdrew a Chinese government laboratory as part of a deal to combat the fentanyl crisis, around the time of last Novembers summit between Biden and Xi.

Four of the firms added to the entity list this week were included for buying US-origin goods to support Chinas military modernization efforts, the Department of Commerce said in statement. Another was targeted for supporting Russian military procurement, while the sixth firm had tried to help Iran buy components for unmanned aerial vehicles, according to the statement.

There is a presumption of denial for applications to export to the four companies, according to the statement, meaning they will likely be unable to purchase US-origin items in the future. The companies are involved in providing AI chips to the Chinese military, according to a Reuters report of comments from Kevin Kurland, an export enforcement official.

The US will do whatever is necessary to maintain its technological competitive advantage, especially on technologies that are considered dual use, said Montufar-Helu, expressing skepticism over the small yard, high fence description officials have used to defend that policy.

Over the past months it seems that the yard has expanded a little bit, he said.

--With assistance from Lucille Liu, Yasufumi Saito and Yujing Liu.

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Morgan Geyser entering a Wisconsin court room in 2017. - Credit: Michael Sears/Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel/AP Photo

Morgan Geyser, the Wisconsin woman who nearly stabbed her friend to death to please the online fictional character Slender Man when she was 12, was denied release from a psychiatric hospital Thursday, April 11, The New York Times reports.

A Wisconsin judge ruled that Geyser, now 21, will have to remain at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute despite some doctors saying they believed she was ready to be released under certain conditions. But other medical experts argued against her release, while the Waukesha County assistant district attorney and members of the victims family remained opposed to it as well.

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Ultimately, the judge ruled that there was still too much risk that Geyser might harm herself or others. Geysers lawyer said he would file another petition for her conditional release in six months.

In 2018, Geyser was sentenced to 40 years in a mental institution after pleading guilty to attempted murder the previous year. Geyser and another friend, Anissa Weier, attempted to kill their classmate Payton Leutner in 2014 when all three girls were 12 years old. After stabbing Leutner 19 times, Geyser and Weier left Leutner wounded in the woods, where a cyclist eventually found her.

When authorities questioned Geyser and Weir, the two said they committed the crime to please Slender Man and become his proxies because they believed the character would hurt their families. (Weier pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree homicide and was sentenced to 25 years in the same institution. She was granted conditional release in 2021 and is serving the remainder of her sentence at her fathers house.)

In January, Geyser filed her petition for early release. During the two-day hearing, some of the experts spoke about Geysers traumatic childhood, including her claim that her father (who died in 2023) had sexually assaulted her. One doctor who thought Geyser was ready for release to a group home said she had improved quite dramatically and that the things she needed  help with socialization, help with education, help with becoming independent  were things the mental institution can no longer provide in an effective way (via The Associated Press).

The institutions director also said she believed Geyser was safe to return to the community and that shed actively participated in therapy, medication management, and all the treatments that are available.

But one psychologist who argued against her release highlighted continuing concerns, like Geysers alleged attempt to hang herself in Oct. 2021 and her decision to stop taking antipsychotic medications in 2022. The judge also responded to questions about Geysers credibility and her claims to therapists that she faked mental illness and even carried out the attack against Leutner as a way to escape her abusive father.

This is a brutal attack on a person, the judge said. This is hands on, if you will. This is bloody, this is gory. That kind of dangerous conduct is what the risk is. He added: Shes changed her position Until that credibility is resolved, the risk is high.

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SNP ministers have been accused of allowing trans rights activists to infiltrate Scotlands NHS and shape dangerous treatment rules that are harming children.

Research by The Telegraph has identified more than 70 occasions in which partisan LGBT campaigners have been given roles allowing them influence over gender care in Scotlands health service, despite a lack of any medical training or expertise.

The findings come after paediatrician Hilary Cass warned that ideology, rather than established medical practice, had shaped how gender healthcare was delivered to young people in England in her damning report about gender youth services.

It led to children being given potentially dangerous drugs such as puberty blockers and hormones, despite a lack of evidence of safety or effectiveness.

SNP ministers and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, which runs the Sandyford gender clinic dubbed a tartan Tavistock, have said they will review Dr Casss findings but have refused to commit to following her recommendations.

The affirming model of care being abandoned south of the border is still being delivered in Scotland with Humza Yousaf and the Scottish NHS also refusing to adopt Englands ban on puberty blockers.

Among the examples of activists influence in Scotland are formal roles in setting long-awaited trans treatment rules for Scotland, writing policies that would erode rights to single-sex hospital wards and being funded to run mental health services.

Controversial treatment rules

Scottish Trans, an influential lobby group, has also claimed credit for having the Scottish NHS sign up to controversial treatment rules set by the US body WPATH, which Dr Cass denounced in her review and said should not be used by the health service.

David Bell, the psychiatrist and whistleblower who first raised concerns about Tavistock in London, said it was patently obvious that partisan campaigners should not have a seat at the table when NHS gender policies were being set.

The Cass Review has been quite clear that this area of healthcare has departed substantially from established healthcare standards and has been so captured by ideology, Dr Bell said.

It is deeply worrying to find that the Scottish Government and NHS have allowed infiltration of the health service to such an extent. We are now dealing with the terrible consequences for children.

They must now immediately implement the findings of the Cass review, shut down the Sandyford and finally provide young people with a service that is based on science and not ideology.

Representatives from groups such as Stonewall, the Equality Network and the LGBT Youth Scotland have been handed roles on Scottish government working groups to consider gender policies on at least 26 occasions since 2021.

They have also been commissioned by health boards to help write official policies on issues such as single-sex hospital wards.

One such document, published by NHS Ayrshire and Arran written with the help of Scottish Trans, suggested women who objected to sharing a ward with a biological man were comparable to racists.

Dr David Bell (pictured), said it was 'patently obvious' that partisan campaigners should not have a 'seat at the table' - CHP

A National Gender Identity Healthcare Reference Group, set up in 2022, includes four trans rights activists while the National Gender Identity Clinical Network for Scotlands steering group has six.

Unnamed representatives from the third sector, including LGBT Youth Scotland, have also been allowed to help shape Scotlands new, as yet unpublished, gender reassignment protocol.

Groups they have sat on have pushed behind the scenes to ensure new treatment rules reference WPATH guidelines, which Dr Cass said were deeply flawed, and to ensure young people aged 16 can access hormones.

Meanwhile, several Scottish health bodies have signed up to a charter scheme run by LGBT Youth Scotland.

In contrast, there has not been a single occasion when a gender critical campaigner, or an external body to have publicly expressed concern about affirmative trans healthcare, has been given a formal role on a NHS or Scottish government body considering trans issues.

Scottish government insiders insisted that despite the disparity, the NHS clinicians also sitting on the groups had a wide range of views.

Ideology directs care

Dr Casss report called for gender services to operate at the same standards as other health services.

She said: I think its definitely the case that ideology on all sides has directed care, rather than care being directed by normal principles of paediatrics and mental health.

In total, The Telegraph identified 76 separate occasions when activists had been given the opportunity to influence NHS Scotland policies on transgender healthcare.

Scottish Trans said it was pretty worried about Dr Casss findings and warned they could not be applied to a Scottish context.

The group said it was concerned by the implication that transition to live as a member of the opposite sex for children should be seen as a last resort.

Meghan Gallacher, the deputy leader of the Scottish Tories, said: It is deeply concerning that campaigners and activists are influencing sensitive policy relating to the gender services provided to young people by the NHS.

The wellbeing of children should be the top priority and medical experts are the only people that are qualified to weigh in and make these important decisions.

A Scottish government spokesman said: Engagement with stakeholders, including those that could be impacted by service or policy change, is standard practice in the public sector.

NHS boards and integration joint boards have a statutory duty to involve people and communities in the planning and development of care services, and in decisions that will significantly affect how services are run.

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The advertising campaign focused on the hurt feelings words could cause - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

Almost 400,000 in taxpayers money was spent on promoting the SNPs new hate crime laws.

The advertising campaign, which focused on the hurt feelings words could cause, urged Scottish people to make complaints to police about hate.

The new law is widely seen to have backfired after Police Scotland was swamped with more than 7,000 complaints in the first week of the laws coming into force, with fewer than four per cent assessed as being actual crimes.

The figures do not include the costs of creating the forces widely mocked hate monster character, a separate campaign in which it was claimed that white, working-class men between 18 and 30 were more likely to commit hate offences.

The Scottish Government spent 389,689 on its Hate Hurts campaign, which ran over 21 days last month in the run-up to the laws coming into force on April Fools Day.

The campaign included posters and a TV advert in which the lead character said: Sticks and stones may break my bones but words make me feel hated just for being me. It added that words could cause wounds that never heal.

It urged Scots to report any hate crimes but did not explain the scope of the legislation, which includes protections for freedom of speech.

The huge sum of public money lavished by the SNP on promoting Humza Yousafs shambolic hate crime law will rightly stick in the craw of Scotlands police officers, said Sharon Dowey, the deputy justice spokesman for the Scottish Tories.

Police Scotland could desperately use that 400,000 as they plough through the mountain of extra work generated by SNP ministers encouraging the public to report incidents  and which were told is leading to a huge overtime bill.

It also makes a mockery of SNP ministers apparent shock at the number of vexatious complaints being made to police.

They ran a nationwide publicity drive, at taxpayers expense, urging people to report hate incidents to the police, and now have the cheek to wring their hands at the volume of them.

The SNPs flawed law, which was inexplicably supported by Labour and the Liberal Democrats, is unravelling just as legal experts and the Scottish Conservatives predicted. It must be ditched now.

The Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act, which was passed by MSPs in March 2021, creates a new offence of stirring up hatred against protected characteristics including age, disability, religion, sexual orientation and gender identity.

Police officers have said members of the public have used the new laws to swamp them with vexatious complaints, often to fuel personal or political vendettas.

Critics have claimed the police and SNP government misled the public ahead of the introduction of the laws by suggesting any unkind remarks directed at protected groups would become criminal.

David Kennedy, general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, said: That 400,000 would have been better spent being given to Police Scotland. It could have funded better training packages and it could have helped pay for overtime. To spend 400,000 on this and give nothing to Police Scotland is ironic.

The Scottish Government has been approached for comment.

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Medina Township Police Chief John W. Minek on Thursday announces the arrest of two Canton residents for the theft of rings from elderly residents at a nursing home.

A pair of nurses from Canton are charged with stealing diamond and gold rings off the fingers of two residents at a Medina County assisted-living home.

The charges were revealed Thursday during a press conference at the Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina Township.

Police Chief John W. Minek said the suspected thefts were first reported in late January when the family of a resident noticed their mother's rings were missing.

While investigating the disappearance, Minek said, the family of a second resident noticed their mother's ring was missing, too.

The victims were ages 104 and 89 and have both since died.

International scam: Tallmadge officer helps investigators crack international online dating scam

With the help of surveillance camera and visitor and work records at the large retirement community, Jason French, president of the Western Reserve Masonic Community, said they were able to narrow in on two outside contract nurses who periodically worked at the facility.

Authorities have charged Kevin M. Essig, 36, of Canton, and Jasmin C. Weir, 29, of Canton, with felony counts related to the theft.

The pair have already made their initial appearances in Medina Municipal Court.

Essig faces separate charges in Summit County involving the unrelated theft of prescription drugs.

Theft targeted most vulnerable, prosecutor says

Medina County Prosecutor S. Forrest Thompson on Thursday discusses the theft of rings off the fingers of elderly residents at a Medina Township nursing home.

Medina County Prosecutor S. Forrest Thompson said the rings are valued at around $10,000 each but the severity of this particular crime is not about the money, but rather the theft from the most vulnerable in our society.

"Our purpose is to begin the healing for these families," Thompson said. "This is a case that shakes the conscious of the community."

Thompson said it is possible that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.

"There's no reason to believe this was the first time they have done this," he said.

Minek said they are still searching for the missing rings as Essig and Weir have not cooperated the investigation.

"Hopefully, now these families will have solace knowing these suspects cannot harm other elderly residents," he said.

Sons believe 104-year-old mother 'put up a fight' when rings were stolen

Bill, left, and Richard Selong talk about the theft of rings from their late mother's fingers while she was a resident at the Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina Township.

Bill Selong said his mother, Edith, cherished the anniversary set that was a gift from her late husband of some 77 years.

Bill said the rings never left her finger so they became suspicious when they noticed a Band-Aid on her ring finger one day in January.

Although she was pretty much bedridden and non-communicative, he said, she was still "feisty" right up until her death in March just shy of her 105th birthday.

The family believes Edith "put up a fight" when the ring was taken from her swollen finger.

And it makes them sick just to think about the theft.

"My mom was like a child," Edith's other son, Richard, said. "At 104, she probably had no recollection of what was going on."

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Nurses charged with stealing rings off elderly Medina patients' fingers
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) carried out searches at the premises of Archpriest Mykola Danylevych, a senior member of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP), on the morning of April 12, sources in law enforcement agencies told the Kyiv Independent.

The Moscow Patriarchate-linked church has been repeatedly accused of aligning with the Russian government during the war, which the church's leadership denied.

Danylevych is the deputy head of the UOC-MP's synodal department for external relations.

The sources did not clarify what Danylevych is suspected of but said that the archpriest had displayed support for the "Russian world" ideology and justified Russian aggression.

The sources noted that in 2017, Danylevych took part in a delegation of pro-Russian oligarch Vadym Novynskyi that sought to convince Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew not to grant the tomos of autocephaly (signifying a decree of canonical autonomy) to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU).

Bartholomew, the archbishop of Constantinople and the highest-ranking cleric of the Eastern Orthodox Church, granted the tomos to the OCU in 2019.

The UOC-MP has yet to comment on the reported searches.

In March, the SBU said it neutralized a pro-Russian disinformation group in Kyiv, whose members included a UOC-MP priest, that reportedly spread pro-Kremlin propaganda through the church's websites.

Read also: Opinion: What should Ukraine do about its Russia-linked church?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Soviet-era cosmonaut Vladimir Aksyonov, who flew into space twice  once aboard a refurbished spacecraft and then on the first crewed test of a new model  has died at the age of 89.



Aksyonov's death on Tuesday (April 9) was announced by Roscosmos, Russia's federal space corporation.



"On behalf of the Roscosmos state corporation and on my own behalf, I express deep condolences in connection with the death of the twice Hero of the Soviet Union, pilot-cosmonaut of the USSR, lieutenant colonel-reserve engineer Vladimir Viktorovich Aksyonov," said Yury Borisov, director general of the agency. "His life's path was filled with honest service to the Motherland, creative work and dedication to his chosen cause."



Selected to become a cosmonaut with the Soviet Union's fifth group of civilian flight engineers, Aksyonov lifted off on the first of his two spaceflights on board Soyuz 22, a spacecraft that first served as the backup to the Soviet side of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP), the first mission flown with the United States. Instead of being outfitted with a docking collar, the capsule carried a specialized camera.

Related: Apollo-Soyuz Test Project: Russians, Americans meet in space

black and white photo of a dour man in a spacesuit, with his helmet off

Lifting off with mission commander Valery Bykovsky on Sept. 15, 1976, Aksyonov spent more than a week photographing the planet from orbit. During the Earth-observation mission, Bykovsky and Aksyonov took 2,400 photographs while flying over 30 geographic areas, including Siberia, Kazakstan and Central Asia. Other targets were areas within the Soviet Union that, according to contemporary media reports, had not been photographed from space before.



Bykovsky and Aksyonov also observed fish swimming in an onboard aquarium, grew plants in an centrifuge and monitored the effects of cosmic rays on their vision, a concern first raised by the United States after Apollo astronauts shared their experiences flying to and from the moon.



On Sept. 23, eight days after launching on his first mission, Aksyonov landed with Bykovsky on the steppe of Kazakhstan.



Aksyonov's next flight came four years later. Soyuz T-2 was the 12th mission to the Soviet Salyut 6 space station and the 10th to successfully dock at the orbiting outpost.



Although he was the more experienced cosmonaut, Aksyonov again flew as a flight engineer, this time paired with first-time flier and commander Yuri Malyshev. The nearly four-day mission lifted off on June 5, 1980, and spent only two days at the station, where Malyshev and Aksyonov visited with the Salyut's resident crew of Leonid Popov and Valery Ryumin.

black and white headshot of a man wearing a weird skull cap

The remainder of the flight  before and after linking up with Salyut 6  served as a shakeout cruise for the Soyuz T-class spacecraft, which sported an upgraded computer, solid state electronics and the return of solar arrays to enable longer-duration flights. Malyshev and Aksyonov were the first to fly the Soyuz T, after an uncrewed test flight.



The two returned to Earth on June 9, 1980, marking the last time Aksyonov was aboard a spacecraft. He logged a total of 11 days, 20 hours and 11 minutes in space over the course of his two missions and 189 revolutions around the planet.



Vladimir Viktorovich Aksyonov was born on Feb. 1, 1935, in Giblitsy, within the Kasimovsky District of the former Soviet Union. He graduated from the Mytishchi Engineering College in 1953, the 10th Military Aviation School for Primary Pilot Training 1955 and All-Union Correspondence Polytechnic Institute with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1963.



In 1962, Aksyonov began working for OKB-1 (today, RSC Energia), where he test-flew aircraft and conducted simulations in zero gravity. In 1966, the Soviet government decided that civilians (and former military personnel) could become crew members on Soyuz spaceflights, which is what led to Aksyonov joining the cosmonaut corps.

photo of a man in a blue flight suit holding a pencil and a clipboard

RELATED STORIES:

 Russian and Soviet space stations throughout history

 Soyuz spacecraft: Backbone of Russian space program

 The Top 10 Soviet and Russian space missions

Aksyonov retired from the corps on Oct. 17, 1988, and became the director of the State Research Center for the Study of Natural Resources of the State Hydrometeorological Service. He then worked as the general director of NPO Planeta, before serving as deputy chairman of the executive committee of the Cosmos Association.



Aksyonov also served in leadership roles for the Soviet Peace Fund, the public organization "Spiritual Movement of Russia" and the Institute for Security and Sustainable Development of Science Foundation.



For his service to the space program, Aksyonov was twice named Hero of the Soviet Union and was bestowed with two Orders of Lenin, a medal "For Merit in Space Exploration" and the title Pilot-Cosmonaut of the USSR, among his other honors.



Aksyonov was married to Marina Fyodorova, and together they had two children, Valeri and Sergei.



"He will remain in our memory as an honest, hardworking, fair and sincere man," said Borisov. "The good memory of Vladimir Viktorovich Aksenov will forever remain in our hearts, and his life will be a worthy example for future generations of space explorers."

Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2024 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson announced Friday that Republicans would introduce a bill in Congress to prevent what he said is a "threat of fraud" from noncitizens voting, but data and studies show there's not a problem to be solved.

Standing alongside former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, Johnson provided no evidence for past fraud by undocumented immigrants, instead saying, "We cannot wait for widespread fraud to occur."

Experts who spoke to USA TODAY said allegations of noncitizens altering elections are myths and at worst xenophobic lies that erode trust in the electoral process.

It makes people think that hordes of unknown, unnamed people who look different from other people are voting and casting ballots, and thats just not true, said Michael Waldman, the president and CEO of the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University, a nonpartisan good-government group. Its a scare tactic.

After Trump won the Electoral College but lost the popular vote in 2016, he claimed without evidence that would have won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally. Similar false claims of voter fraud became the basis of his rejection of his defeat in 2020, which culminated in Jan.6, 2021 violent attack on the U.S. Capitol by his supporters.

Noncitizen voting is virtually nonexistent

Federal law already prohibits noncitizens from voting in federal elections. An extremely small number of noncitizens have cast ballots. The votes were often cast by mistake, and there were far too few to alter the outcome of a race.

A 2017 study from the Brennan Center found that only two of 42 jurisdictions studied had improper noncitizen voting. There were 30 cases, out of more than 23 million votes cast, accounting for .0001% of the votes in those places.

There are very few cases of noncitizens casting or attempting to cast a vote in a federal election, said William Adler, the associate director of the elections project at the Bipartisan Policy Center. The number of cases isnt zero, but its pretty darn close when you look at it as a fraction of the total number of votes cast.

The Brennan Center study also looked at Virginia, New Hampshire and California  three states Trump alleged had serious voter fraud in 2016. No official we spoke with identified an incident of noncitizen voting in 2016, the study said, referring to conversations with elections administrators in those states.

In 2017, Texas prosecuted a permanent resident and mother of four for voting illegally, and sentenced her to eight years in prison. The woman came to the U.S. as an infant, and her lawyer told the New York Times she did not know she wasnt eligible to vote.

The vast majority of these cases are usually someone who legitimately thought they were allowed to vote, which just speaks to the need of better voter outreach and education on the elections process, Adler said.

House Speaker Mike Johnson talks with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., in Congress on April 11, 2024.

Growing concern about noncitizen voting

In addition to the federal law banning noncitizen voting, the National Voter Registration Act requires people who register to vote to declare under penalty of perjury that they are eligible to vote.

Johnson is proposing a new law to require Americans to provide proof of citizenship when they register to vote and to require states to remove noncitizens from voter rolls. (The federal law already outlines a process that states must use to clean their voter rolls.)

"There are so many illegals in the country that if only 1 out of 100 voted, they would cast potentially hundreds of thousands of votes in an election," Johnson said. "That could turn an election. This could be a tight election in our congressional races across the country. It could, if there are enough votes, affect a presidential election."

Some liberal cities have voted to allow noncitizens to vote in local elections, but not in state or federal elections.

Helen Brewer, a policy specialist for the National Conference of State Legislatures, said there is no state constitution that allows noncitizens to vote in state or federal elections. And seven states, including swing states like Arizona and Colorado, have passed explicit bans on noncitizen voting.

That number could increase soon. Four states  Iowa, Idaho, Kentucky and Wisconsin  will have ballot measures to amend their constitutions to ban noncitizen voting in November, Brewer said. Wisconsin is a battleground that Trump won in 2016, but President Joe Biden recaptured in 2020.

The Great Replacement theory

Some allegations of noncitizen voting echo the so-called Great Replacement, a white supremacist theory that blames the nations demographic shifts on Jews, which inspired mass shooters in Pittsburgh and Buffalo. Republicans all over the country have repeated a version of the theory that accuses Democrats of importing voters to win elections.

Johnson said Friday that an influx of immigrants under Democratic leadership is "one of their designs" that they created "because they want to turn these people into voters." He did not provide evidence for this belief, saying only that social services agencies often help people register to vote.

In Texas, which has the longest border with Mexico in the country, new voter registrations are down, according to Secretary of State Jane Nelson. The state saw just under 58,000 new registrations this year through April 3, she said in a news release, compared to 65,000 during the same time period in 2022 and 104,000 in the same time period in 2020.

Cleta Mitchell, a lawyer who was on Trumps infamous phone call in 2020 pressuring Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a fellow Republican, to "find" votes to win the election, has been claiming noncitizens are voting as part of her new initiative called the Election Integrity Network. Raffensperger refused Trump's request.

"The once-fantastical lie that the 2020 election was somehow 'stolen' from President Trump through voting-machine irregularities, foreign intervention, or out-and-out fraud has become repetitive, boring, and sad," Raffensperger wrote in National Review, a conservative magazine, in January.

Were being invaded by aliens from across the southern border, Mitchell told a conservative radio host in February. We have no idea who these people are. We know theyre not citizens. But theyre being registered to vote. She did not provide evidence for this claim during her interview.

Secretaries of state 'not aware' of noncitizen voting

The conservative Heritage Foundation keeps a database of voter fraud cases across the country. That database cites 21 cases of ineligible voting, which includes people who registered to vote or voted despite not being citizens. The organization has said in the past its database is not exhaustive.

But secretaries of state in both parties, who run elections, have disputed claims of widespread election fraud and noncitizen voting.

The National Association of Secretaries of State said in 2017 its members were not aware of any evidence that supports the voter fraud claims made by President Trump."

That's also true in Kentucky, which has a proposed amendment to ban noncitizen voting on the ballot in November. Michon Lindstrom, spokesperson for Republican Secretary of State Michael Adams told USA TODAY, Noncitizens are not allowed to vote in Kentucky, and we are not aware of any cases in which a noncitizen has voted."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump and Johnson meeting fact check: Noncitizen voting minor issue
The U.S. and Japan, along with the American firm Lockheed Martin, have conducted the first live tracking demonstration of the AN/SPY-7(V)1 solid-state radar integrated with the Aegis Weapon System, the company and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency announced.

The March 28 test was the first time this pairing  central to Japans Aegis System Equipped Vessel program dedicated to providing missile defense platforms  successfully detected and tracked an object in space, then passed along the data to the combat system for further processing.

The test took place at Lockheed Martins Production Test Center in Moorestown, New Jersey. The Missile Defense Agency led the test, with U.S. Navy Aegis program representatives and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force personnel on hand.

A Lockheed Martin representative told Defense News this week that this was the first of a series of land-based tests the SPY-7 would go through before installation on the first Aegis System Equipped Vessel. This test involved one radar face; the next will involve all four radar faces, as Lockheed Martin ensures full system integration before shipping the hardware to Japan for installation on the first ship.

Japan expects to commission one Aegis System Equipped Vessel in March 2028 and another in March 2029. The ships will bring an integrated air and missile defense capability that will provide regional missile defense to the island nation.

The Lockheed-made SPY-7 radar is based on the same technology as the ground-based Long Range Discrimination Radar fielded at Clear Space Force Station, Alaska. That MDA-developed radar, which hit initial fielding in 2021, continues to go through testing. Its eventual delivery to the U.S. Space Force is delayed amid testing challenges.

Because the radar for the Japanese ships  smaller than the ground-based Long Range Discrimination Radar, but larger than the other shipboard radars  shares the same hardware and software backbone as the others in the program, much of the integration work was already done, the company said.

The ongoing round of live testing is meant to ensure the current iteration of hardware and software are fully integrated with the combat system, as a means of reducing risk before installing them on the ship.

Versions of the SPY-7 radar will also be fielded on the Spanish Navys F-110 frigate and the Canadian Surface Combatant.
U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) wipes her eyes as she listens to President Joe Biden's State of the Union address during a joint meeting of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol on March 07, 2024 in Washington, DC. She has vocally criticised Bidens policy toward Israel. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

This week symbolised the absolutely shambolic state of Republican infighting. On Monday, Donald Trump threw a grenade by impying that he simply would leave states to decide abortion  while not explicitly saying whether he would veto an abortion ban, just that he would not sign one.

Then, on Wednesday, the House Republican conference once again soiled itself when it voted down a rule to begin debate on reauthorising the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

But these internecine dealings are not so much about policy as they are about tactics. On Friday, the House passed a new version of the rule after the Freedom Caucus was put down for a bottle and a nap. Republican states have still restricted abortion and Trump continues to take credit for killing Roe v Wade. And even if not all Republican Senators want to take up impeaching Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, they most certainly want to continue to make immigration the defining issue of the 2024 campaign.

Conversely, Democrats do actually have legitimate policy differences but once disputes are resolved, they move as a unit. The coming months will prove the mettle of both the more establishment wings and the progressive insurgents, particularly on the issue of Israel.

A week from Tuesday, the Squad  the coterie of progressive insurgents  will face their first major challenge when Summer Lee faces a primary challenger in Pennsylvania. Lee has been a lightning rod for criticism ever since she ran for an open seat. I covered the last few weeks of her campaign in 2022 in the Pittsburgh area when pro-Israel groups had alreadt come out against her before she had even gotten a chance to vote on any policy pertaining to Israel.

Now, Moderate PAC has hit Lee for voting against Joe Biden. The claim is baffling, considering that Lee sits on the House Oversight Committee with other members of the Squad as part of what ranking Democrat Jamie Raskin called in an interview with The Independent last year the Truth Squad to push back on the House GOPs spurious attempts to impeach Biden.

Antisemitism is especially salient for Pennsylvanias 12th district, given it is the home of the Tree of Life Synagogue, where a gunman killed 11 Jews in 2018.

Lee also faced criticism when she was scheduled to speak at the Philadelphia branch of Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) after Jewish Insider reported that some of the other speakers had made antisemitic remarks.

At the same time, the freshman Democrat has seemed to deftly avoid anything sticking to her. She pulled out from speaking at the CAIR event. Lee has  correctly  pointed out that Jeffrey Yass, the richest person in Pennsylvania, has contributed $800,000 to the PAC spending against her. Yass, of course, is a major investor in TikToks parent company ByteDance, whom Trump has courted, and he has been floated as a potential Treasury Secretary in a second administration.

In the most recent round of spending bills, Lee touted the fact she brought money to combat antisemitism in her district and to provide resources for people still healing from the shooting.

But other members of the Squad might not be so fortunate. Representative Jamaal Bowman, who in 2020 knocked off a longtime incumbent, now faces challenges on multiple fronts. His opponent George Latimer has received the backing of the Democratic Majority for Israel, which is led by Mark Mellman, a former consigliere to the late Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.

On Thursday, he jousted with DMFI when he said on a Protect the Squad launch call of the Democrat Majority for Israel that we are taking their power away from them. They responded on Twitter/X: We have no power. The power is in the hands of his constituents, 55% of whom give Rep Bowman a negative rating for his performance in Congress and the majority of whom are voting against him in favor of @LatimerforNY.

Similarly, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri, who also knocked off a longtime Democratic incumbent, faces a challenger supported by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Bush, like Bowman and Lee, supports a ceasefire in Gaza and has a well-supported opponent in Wesley Bell.

That being said, other members of the Squad do not face legitimate challenges. Tellingly, Representative Rashida Tlaib, the only Palestinian American congresswoman, who faced a censureship for her comments about Gaza, seems to face only a surface-level primary challenge.

In fact, the increased scrutiny she faces has probably helped her as she reported raising $3.8m at the end of last year. That would be a haul for a Senate candidate, but its an eye-popping stat for a backbencher in the House.

Similarly, Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota faces a rematch against her 2022 challenger who almost defeated her but she seems to be in a good spot. And for all of Bowmans troubles, fellow New Yorker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an outspoken critic of Bidens policy on Israel, faces no major challenge.

But while Republicans feuds are little more than sophisticated food fights, the Democratic feuds are underpinned by a larger policy question. Many of the Squad members have refused to sign onto a discharge petition to put a bill passed by the Senate to give aid to Israel as well as Ukraine to the floor.

Of course, there are other elements within the feud: more establishment forces fear that the criticism of Israel is a ruse for antisemitism  despite the fact that even Jewish Democrats like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have recently spoken out against Israels bombardment of Gaza. Meanwhile, progressives see the primary challenges as thinly-veiled anti-Black racism (though, it should be said some of the most outspoken Democratic voices for Israel are Black members of Congress such as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Representative Ritchie Torres).

Progressives have told me they had serious reservations in the past weeks because of Israels handling of its war with Hamas. The results beginning with the April 23 primary in Pennsylvania could easily determine whether progressives sign onto the petition or remain unbowed.
Patience, one of the fruits of the spirit, was required of a group of Catholics in St. Marys who longed for decades for a suitable place to worship.

After four decades, their patience was rewarded in the form of the massive Immaculata Church, which has now been in service for nearly a year. It can seat more than 1,500 people and celebrates four Masses most weekends.

For more than 45 years, the local branch of the international Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX)  the largest such group in the United States  prayed, raised money and waited, wondering at times if their dreams for a new building would ever come to fruition, or if it was all worth the effort.

How the church building, and the parish, came to be in St. Marys is quite a story in itself.

Morning sunlight creates a glow on the Immaculata Church on March 13. The 66,000-square-foot complex costs $42 million and was completed last year.

SSPX Catholics found campus abandoned by Jesuit mission in 1960s

Originally used as a Jesuit mission to Potawatomi Native Americans in the area, a campus of church and seminary buildings in St. Marys were abandoned by the Jesuit organization in the 1960s.

SSPX Catholics in the United States, growing in number following the organizations founding in Switzerland in 1970, learned of the abandoned facilities in St. Marys and wondered if they might serve as a base for their programs.

But shortly after the property was purchased by SSPX in 1978, a fire destroyed the church building on the site. That building had a capacity of about 500. Plans were drawn up to replace the church with one of similar size.

An SSPX school on the campus  St. Marys Academy  for grades K-12 began attracting families to the community, quickly making a 500-seat church insufficient.

That original church was a small seminary chapel that really wasnt big enough for the growing community, said James Vogel, director of communications for SSPX in America. So, they looked at building bigger. The church was in the middle of campus, so the size it could be rebuilt was limited. They decided to build it somewhere else on the property.

The goalposts kept moving. If youre going to build a bigger church, then you need more money. So that delays the process. Over the decades, the parish kept growing, so they kept having to adjust the plan.

Adjusting the plans and raising funds meant the parish spent more than four decades celebrating Mass in classrooms, auditoriums, a converted dining room and a gymnasium.

Vogel said while the bulk of funds for the project were raised locally, it did become a cause worldwide. He said donations originated from all 50 states and several dozen countries around the world over the years.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in the summer of 2020, an event that probably seemed would never come. But a new complication had arisen over the years. The originally estimated cost of about $28 million had ballooned to over $40 million.

Parish members find their seats at the Immaculata Church in St. Mary's during morning mass on March 13. The church has a capacity of 1,550.

Forty years of planning and fundraising came to fruition in 2023

The SSPX pressed on, finally completing the project about a year ago, in time for a grand opening and consecration ceremony last May. The final result was a 66,400-square-foot Romanesque structure capable of seating over 1,500 people.

Youre basically looking at the end result of a 40-year cycle of planning, raising money and then adjusting the plans and raising more money, Vogel said. Its a symbol of hope. It was a sign of hope for people all around the world for decades of trying to find a home. To build what was built after a couple of generations is an inspiring story.

The building required a name equal to its remarkable and unlikely story. The Immaculata Church derives its name from the Immaculate Conception of Jesus to his mother Mary.

On a human level, (the building of the church) doesnt make sense, Vogel said. To have a group of people in Kansas so dedicated to building something so big, to persevere and grow. Ill admit, if I had been here in 1978 and had walked around and seen what was here then, I would have been like, I dont know how thats going to work.

"It wouldnt have made sense on paper.

The impact of the building stretches beyond the town of St. Marys, population 2,749. On an average weekend, about 4,000 people attend the four Masses celebrated at Immaculata.

Not only has it already drawn many people here from other SSPX chapels, but it has also drawn more Catholic souls here who are learning about tradition, said Father Patrick Rutledge, who has served as rector of the parish for eight years. It has also drawn even many non-Catholics to come and see what the Catholic faith and the worship of almighty God is all about.

Hand-painted liturgical artwork adorn the ceilings of the Immaculata Church. The middle of the dome features the painting "God The Father," which was the first to be completed.

More than 2,000 people attended midnight Mass at Immaculata Church

From a practical standpoint, Rutledge said moving from the gymnasium to Immaculata has had a profound impact on the worship experience.

Above all, it has allowed for all the splendors of the liturgy, with good acoustics and liturgical art, to complement the sacred mysteries and many other details of parish life that can be celebrated with greater beauty and ease, Rutledge said. It especially allows the faithful to attend Mass without rushing in and out.

Rutledge called celebrating Christmas in the new building incredible, noting that more than 2,000 people attended the midnight Mass, making the immense space feel too small.

But we knew that that would be the case for these special feasts throughout the year, Rutledge said.

Vogel said seeing the new building take shape was a long journey.

It took a tremendous amount of sacrifice to get to where we are, he said. It is more than a building. Its a sign of vibrancy for thousands of people who call it their spiritual home.

A church is the place where heaven meets earth. You see that not only in the formal liturgy and the baptisms and marriages. It is a place for people to stop in and visit, to say prayers and talk to God in a formal way. And even something like hearing the church bells serves as a reminder of something bigger than yourself.

When can people visit Immaculata Church to view the architecture?

Vogel said the Immaculata is open during the daytime, with Mass held at various times, seven days a week. He said visitors are welcome to worship or to view the architecture.

He said an informative brochure is available to help visitors recognize and appreciate various aspects of the building.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: St. Marys' Immaculata Church an answer to 40 years of prayer, planning
Starbucks is closing an East Sacramento coffee shop. Its last day is around the corner

Starbucks is closing its Alhambra Boulevard coffee shop in East Sacramento weeks after cutting back hours at the location.

Its last day will be Sunday, April 21, according to a farewell sign posted on the door at 1401 Alhambra Blvd. Workers at the location have invited family and friends to celebrate the community and baristas on our final day open. Those employees will be relocated to various Starbucks stores around the capital region.

We will miss seeing you here but we wont be far! the sign stated.

A sign at the Starbucks at 1401 Alhambra Blvd. in East Sacramento announces the locations closure. Savanna Smith/sasmith@sacbee.com

Starbucks spokesperson Sam Jefferies called the closure temporary but said the company has no reopening date to share at this time.

He did not clarify Starbucks plans and would not elaborate on the reason for closure beyond the following statement: As a standard course of business, we regularly evaluate our store portfolio to determine how we can best meet our community and customers needs, and ensure partners are supported in crafting beverages in a warm and welcoming environment.

The shop is down the street from a complex of doctors offices, including UC Davis Healths Midtown Ambulatory Care Center on Folsom Boulevard. It sits across from a Motel 6 and a vacant building that used to be home to a nightclub. It is catty-corner from Roy Inn & Suites. A Peets Coffee closed a nearby store last August due to an expiring lease, The Sacramento Business Journal reported.

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In 2022, Starbucks closed a Land Park location, citing safety concerns at the intersection that neighbored a homeless encampment and what neighbors say is an open-air drug market, The Sacramento Bee reported at the time.

That July, the company had announced the closure of other stores across the U.S. for the same reason.

At the Alhambra Boulevard location, more than 300 calls for service have been made to the Sacramento Police Department since 2020, said Officer Cody Tapley, an agency spokesman. He said those calls may have come from the general area and could have been for a wide range of reasons, from theft and disturbances to loitering or panhandling.

Managers at the store directed questions from The Sacramento Bee to the chains corporate media team. The shop recently shortened its hours to close at 2 p.m. Other nearby locations close at 7.

The chain was accused in 2023 of closing stores in a union-busting move. And, this month, Business Insider reported that Starbucks raised prices in California due to the states fast-food minimum wage hike, where certain national chains were required to pay workers at least $20 an hour.

The Alhambra Boulevard store is not unionized. Jefferies confirmed that all employees were given the option to transfer to other locations.

The closest Starbucks location will remain in operation at 28th and N streets, Starbucks representatives said. Jefferies encouraged customers to use the Starbucks cellphone app to stay updated on store hours and locations.

Other coffee shops in the area include Coffee Works at 3418 Folsom Blvd. and Cluster Coffee, which operates limited hours out of SacYard at 1725 33rd St.

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.
Angela Rayner has also faced questions about whether she should have paid capital gains tax on the 2015 sale of her council house, and whether it was her principal address - Eddie Keogh/Getty Images Europe

Angela Rayner has promised to step down as the deputy leader of the Labour Party if she is found to have committed a criminal offence.

In a defiant statement, she said she was completely confident that she had followed the rules at all times after police launched an investigation into claims that she had broken electoral law.

She also accused the Conservatives of reporting her to the police as a political tactic.

Greater Manchester Police is investigating claims that Ms Rayner wrongly declared which house was her permanent address on the electoral register, which is a criminal offence.

She has also faced questions about whether she should have paid capital gains tax on the 2015 sale of her council house owing to the confusion over whether it was her principal residence or whether she was living with her then-husband at a separate address.

Senior Tories demanded that she resign  pointing out that she and Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, had called on Boris Johnson to quit when police launched an investigation into him over partygate.

Sir Keir now faces a test of his authority after the Labour Left jumped to defend his deputy over the police investigation. Soon after the announcement, both Ed Miliband and Sadiq Khan came out with strong messages backing the frontbencher.

But it took Sir Keir leader four hours to show his support publicly. In an interview with ITV, he refused three times to say whether Ms Rayner would have to quit if police charged her.

In her statement on Friday night, Ms Rayner said: If I committed a criminal offence, I would of course do the right thing and step down.

Ive repeatedly said I would welcome the chance to sit down with the appropriate authorities, including the police and HMRC, to set out the facts and draw a line under this matter. I am completely confident Ive followed the rules at all times.

I have always said that integrity and accountability are important in politics. Thats why its important that this is urgently looked at, independently and without political interference.

I make no apologies for having held Conservative ministers to account in the past. Indeed, the public would rightly expect me to do so as a deputy leader of the opposition.

She added: We have seen the Tory party use this playbook before  reporting political opponents to the police during election campaigns to distract from their record.

I will say, as I did before, if I committed a criminal offence, I would of course do the right thing and step down. The British public deserves politicians who know the rules apply to them.

The questions raised relate to a time before I was an MP, and I have set out my familys circumstances and taken expert tax and legal advice. I look forward to setting out the facts with the relevant authorities at the earliest opportunity.

The Crown Prosecution Service states that giving false information on the electoral register is a criminal offence, and pursuing major infringements would normally be in the public interest.

But it adds: Proceedings for other infringements may not be in the public interest in situations [such as] a genuine mistake or misunderstanding or the offence being of a technical nature.

That means Ms Rayner could be found to have broken the rules but not face a charge. It could also mean she would not have to step down if she came to an agreement with HMRC to pay more tax.

The home on Lowndes Lane, in Stockport, at which it is alleged Angela Rayner lived while being registered on the electoral role at a different address - Ryan Jenkinson/Story Picture Agency

It would be difficult for Sir Keir to remove Ms Rayner as deputy leader because it is a position elected by members. However, Sir Keir could remove other positions, such as shadow local government spokesman, from her.

If he did try to remove her, he is likely to face a backlash from the Left of his party. Ms Rayner often touts her-working class background and trade union roots as key to Labours appeal to the partys heartlands.

Sir Keir, who has tried to move the party more into the centre ground since taking over from Jeremy Corbyn, has a fraught relationship with Ms Rayner. When he tried to demote her in 2021, she stood firm and ended up being handed extra jobs.

On Friday, Mr Miliband said: We are absolutely 100 per cent behind Angela. We are absolutely confident that she has complied with the rules. She welcomes the fact she can set out the facts.

My message to the country is that we are incredibly proud of Angela Rayner, our deputy leader. She is an inspiring person  she is exactly the kind of person we need in politics.

If a Labour government is elected, I look forward to Angela Rayner serving as deputy prime minister. Frankly, the Conservative Party is a desperate party that has nothing to say to the country about the big issues that it faces.

Mr Khan, the Labour Mayor of London, said he was fully confident that his best friend would be cleared by the police, saying: I fully support Angela Rayner  Im confident that shell be vindicated in relation to the police investigation.

Im fully confident in Angela  shes one of my best friends, and Im sure shell be cleared.

Sadiq Khan and Ed Miliband defended Ms Rayner as they launched a climate action plan in London on Friday - Victoria Jones/PA

Sir Keir did not comment on the investigation until about 2pm on Friday  four hours after police had made their announcement. He had been on a visit to Barrow-in-Furness to launch his partys new nuclear policy.

A spokesman said he had been in a secure area at Barrow and therefore could not make a comment until later.

Sir Keir said: We welcome this investigation, because it will allow a line to be drawn in relation to this matter. I am fully confident that Angela Rayner has not broken the rules. She will cooperate with the investigation, as you would expect, and it is really a matter for the police.

He repeatedly refused to say whether Ms Rayner should resign as deputy leader if she is found to have broken the law.

Pushed on the question, he said: The investigation is starting today, shell cooperate with that, we need to let the police get on with their job.

Asked again, he said: She has given answers many times over  she is going to cooperate, police just need the space and the time to get on with the job that they need to do.

Both Ms Rayner and Sir Keir had called for Mr Johnson to stand down when police launched an investigation into partygate.

They both also said they would resign if they were charged over beergate, where the Labour leader and colleagues drank beer and had a takeaway curry after a campaigning event in April 2021, a time when most indoor gatherings were banned.

Grant Shapps accused Ms Rayner of double standards, saying she had spent her political career calling people out and demanding transparency but had failed to show the same openness about the claims against her.

I think the double standards have been extraordinary, he said. This is something which is a serious matter. Its important that its looked into properly and I welcome the idea that the police are doing that.

Michael Fabricant, a Tory MP, said: Why is it that people, so quick to call for the resignation of others when they are investigated for possible wrongdoing, are so slow to take their own advice? I am weary of the hypocrisy of so many politicians.

A Number 10 source said: We believe that a police investigation should be allowed to run its course before making any judgments, unlike Angela Rayner, but clearly there are still questions for Keir Starmer and the Labour Party to answer here, and they should come clean now.

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DENVER (KDVR)  Commerce City police are looking for more information on a triple shooting that killed an 18-year-old.

On Sunday, March 24th at 1:40 a.m., Commerce City Police Department officers were called to a shooting at a house party near the 6900 block of E. 69th Place.

When officers arrived at the house, they found two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

Arapahoe County deputies search for driver who slammed into gas pumps

Shiloh Bennett, 18, was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was a light that was taken from us way too soon, Bennetts father told FOX31.

Shiloh Bennett

The second suspect was taken to a local hospital. A third victim was identified after taking themselves to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Neighbors recall shooting

FOX31 spoke to neighbors shortly after the shooting happened. They said they were on edge after being woken by the sound of rapid gunfire.

The street was just a madhouse with cars dashing in and out, Dan Bremcamp said. Right in front of my truck is when they started the massive gunfire. It sounded like a car backfired and it was just boom, boom, boom, boom.

Bullets flew through the neighborhood, some even striking a house nearby.

Commerce City Police said one person died and two people were injured after a shooting at an apparent house party on Sunday. (KDVR)

Commerce City Police said one person died and two people were injured after a shooting at an apparent house party on Sunday. (KDVR)

Commerce City Police said one person died and two people were injured after a shooting at an apparent house party on Sunday. (KDVR)

Video obtained by FOX31 shows dozens of teens lined up out front of the house once police arrived. Officials said many people attended after seeing the party advertised on social media.

There were still 30, 40, 50 kids over there in the front yard that didnt have rides, I guess, Bremcamp said. They pulled all them out and had them on the front porch.

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Another neighbor said nothing like this had happened in the four years they lived there.

Witnesses wanted for deadly March shooting

Commerce City police believe there may be witnesses to this event, as several people attended the party.

Officers are urgently seeking to speak to anyone who was in the area of the shooting or who may know the identity of the shooter.

Anyone who has information is asked to contact the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers immediately. Tipsters can call 720-913-7867 and remain anonymous while still being eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic and economic upheaval, Gov. Brian Kemp provided cash assistance to Georgians on Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families in 2022.

The cash assistance was provided to program enrollees in $350 one-time assistance payments, using more than $1 billion.

Now, a state audit report says the Georgia Department of Human Services process for how that program roll out was enacted, focused on how the payment cards provided were delivered and what company did so, did not follow normal state procedures.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The Cash Assistance program provided one-time cash assistance of up to $350 for active enrollees of the Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and/or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families government benefit programs in response to the negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency, according to the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts.

Instead, the report said what would normally have been a minimum of four months to possibly as long as a year, based on complexity, for a bidding process to remain competitive was completed in just seven days.

The company that received the contract was Rellevate, a fintech company. In a document published by the company, it said Georgia DHS contracted them to implement the program on a tight timeline to disburse funds efficiently to the millions of Georgians that needed it.

TRENDING STORIES:

The deviation from the standard procurement process resulted in a much faster contract award. A request for proposal (RFP) following state competitive bidding requirements typically takes four to six months, and up to 12 months for complex RFPs. The solicitation document for this program opened on August 25 and the supplier was selected on September 1, the report says.

State statute requires that solicitations that are higher than a state entitys purchasing authority are approved by the Department of Administrative Services and posted to the Georgia Procurement registry.

With the shorter timeline for the contract, which chose Rellevate to perform the disbursement, the audit states that the Georgia DHS and Governors Office of Planning and Budget did not follow state requirements for procurement.

While the timeline allowed quicker delivery of funds to beneficiaries, the number of suppliers was potentially limited because the RFP was not posted to the Georgia Procurement Registry. This prevented the state from receiving the benefits of an open, competitive solicitation, according to the GDOAA report.

Channel 2 Action News has reached out to the governors office for more information about the selection process, who directed Channel 2 to the Department of Human Services.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
John Flynn

The Florida Supreme Court has rejected one of two formal charges against Polk County Judge John Flynn, but he still faces the likelihood of a public reprimand and a 25-day suspension without pay.

The Investigative Panel of the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission filed its amended findings and a recommendation of discipline on Wednesday, following an investigation over Flynns activities in the 2022 election. The inquiry centered on statements Flynn made suggesting a potential bias toward law enforcement.

In the amended recommendation, the panel removed one formal charge against Flynn, in response to a ruling from the Florida Supreme Court. The initial inquiry alleged that Flynn had violated a canon of judicial conduct on political activities. The Supreme Court, in a unanimous opinion issued March 21, rejected that stipulation from the panels agreement with Flynn.

The court returned the case to the commission for further proceedings. The panel had originally recommended a 30-day suspension for Flynn.

The nominal reduction in the penalty from 30 days suspension to 25 days suspension reflects the Commissions determination that the misconduct reflected in Count One is very serious, read the amended notice of formal charges, signed by Gregory Coleman, chair of the commission.

Flynn, formerly a Bartow lawyer, won a contentious, five-person election for an open seat for Group 8 County Judge in the 10th Judicial Circuit in 2022. He led voting in the initial election and then defeated Ruth Moracen Knight in a runoff.

As The Ledger previously reported, the commissions investigative panel submitted notice of formal charges against Flynn in October, asserting that he violated five rules of judicial conduct. The commission does not reveal who filed the complaint that led to the investigation.

The notice of charges included copies of campaign material and printouts of statements Flynn made on social media during the 2022 campaign. Flynn emphasized his background as a former assistant state attorney and expressed support for law enforcement, highlighting endorsements from Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd and the West Central Florida Police Benevolent Association.

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Flynns campaign used the phrase #supportlawenforcement on social media, the panel reported. The notice cited such statements from social media as, If you are a criminal you dont want me on the bench and Criminals wont be happy to see me on the bench 

In the amended findings, the commission wrote that such statements conveyed an inappropriate bias in favor of law enforcement agencies or against people accused of crimes.

Judge Flynns statements espousing support for law enforcement did not just occur in a vacuum, the notice read. His support of and by law enforcement was a theme repeated in his campaign.

A member of the public questioned Flynns potential bias on social media, the notice said. While the commission does not prohibit judicial candidates from using a sheriffs endorsement in a campaign, the Commission believes that such questions should have reminded candidate Flynn about his ethical responsibility to avoid suggesting a bias, the notice said.

As evidence of damage caused by the campaign statements, the commission noted that Chief Judge James Yancey had to move Flynn from his original assignment on criminal cases to small claims in response to the investigation, disrupting the normal rotation of assignments in order to avoid assigning him to a criminal docket.

Nick Sudzina, court administrator for the 10th Judicial Circuit, said that Flynn would eventually be assigned to criminal cases after the investigation is resolved.

The Supreme Court rejected the second formal charge, which arose from Flynns appearance at a meeting of the Patriot Club of Lakeland, a conservative group, during the 2022 campaign, an event to which his runoff opponent was not invited, and later advertised the clubs endorsement of him.

The JQCs investigative panel found that those actions violated judicial rules on attending political party functions or promoting party affiliations. In its opinion, though, the Supreme Court wrote that the findings contained no proof that the Patriot Club of Lakeland is a political party.

Under the heading Mitigation, the commission wrote that Flynn immediately accepted responsibility for his actions, cooperated with the investigative panel and expressed regret that his actions have tarnished the judiciary and created the appearance of bias.

Gary White can be reached at gary.white@theledger.com or 863-802-7518. Follow on X @garywhite13.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: State panel drops one charge in investigation of Polk County judge
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  The Illinois State Police officially welcomed a new class of State Troopers on Friday with their graduation from the Illinois State Police Academy.

The nine troopers of Cadet Class 146 recently completed a 28-week training program that included physical and classroom instruction on topics like domestic violence, critical incident response, de-escalation, firearms, control and arrest tactics and more.

Today is another proud day for ISP as we welcome new troopers to our ranks, said ISP Director Brendan Kelly. One of the many special moments for an ISP Director includes administering the Oath of an Officer to new troopers. The expression of great pride on their faces, the inherent desire to make a difference in their communities, and the determination and grit they exude is a demonstration of ISPs strong heritage.

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Cadet Class 146 the 18th class to graduate under Kellys leadership. Its also the 18th class for Governor J.B. Pritzker.

On behalf of the State of Illinois, I would like to congratulate Cadet Class 146 on their graduation from the Illinois State Police Academy, said Governor JB Pritzker. My administration has prioritized recruitment over the last five years, leading to 512 new troopers  and I am honored to welcome these nine cadets as they start the next chapter of their career in law enforcement.

Most of the troopers will be assigned to Troops 3 and 4 in Chicago and Peoria, but one will be assigned to Troop 7, which is based out of Pesotum.

The new troopers training is not over yet, however. They will be required to take part in a 14-week field training program with one-on-one mentoring with Field Training Officers. Troopers who successfully complete this program will advance to patrolling solo.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
El Paso veterans had an opportunity to bend the ear of lawmakers during a recent roundtable discussion in Central El Paso.

State Sen. Cesar Blanco, D-El Paso, hosted state Sen. Kelly Hancock, R-Fort Worth, who chairs the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, at the Benavidez Patterson 82nd Airborne facility on April 4.

Dozens of veterans turned out for the discussion, which took place over breakfast, and took turns voicing their concerns for the plight of El Paso veterans. Among local veterans' biggest concerns were the pervasiveness of sexual assault in the military, the difficulty finding a job and the impact Texas' near-total abortion ban is having on women service members.

State Sens. Cesar Blanco, D-El Paso, and Kelly Hancock, R-Fort Worth, chair of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, held a roundtable discussion with El Paso veterans Thursday, April 2024, at the Benavidez Patterson 82nd Aiborne center in Central El Paso.

Though reporters were not invited to the discussion, Blanco and Hancock spoke briefly after the event to relay what they had heard.

Hancock has been visiting communities across Texas and Blanco said his visit to El Paso represented a "great opportunity" to hear "the unique challenges" faced by veterans in the Borderland.

"We've heard from women veterans who've dealt with sexual trauma," he said. "We've heard from veterans who interested in getting veterans into the workforce."

"Some of the things are similar throughout the state, but it was an opportunity for the chairman ... to come and listen and lend his ear and time (to) West Texas."

What are veterans' biggest concerns?

While sexual assault in the military continues to be a chief concern for El Paso veterans, as well as many others across the state, Hancock was quick to point out that Blanco's Vanessa Guillen Act, passed during the 87th legislative session, was aimed at curbing assaults.

Blanco's bill provides additional avenues for justice and resources for sexual assault victims and seeks to allay service members' fears of approaching military leadership with their stories.

"I think the issues with our women veterans, I think, is one that the state has led on," Hancock said.

State Sen. Kelly Hancock, chair of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, and state Sen. Cesar Blanco listen to El Paso veterans during a roundtable discussion Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Central El Paso.

Where bringing veterans into the workforce is concerned, Hancock noted that a big problem is the lack of access veterans have to small- and mid-sized companies, which make up the vast majority of employment in Texas.

"A lot of your large corporations and companies know where to go to find those veterans in need," he said. "And the discussion here is that the vast majority of businesses, 80% of employees work for small businesses and (we're) trying to find ways to connect outstanding employees, which is what veterans are, with those who are in need, like small- to mid-seize business owners."

Blanco noted that the roundtable comes as legislative committees are beginning interim meetings and the input will be used in drafting legislation ahead of the next session, though it's unclear now exactly what bills might be on offer.

"Texas does a great job for our veterans," Hancock said. "I think we've shown legislatively that we love our veterans and we want veterans to live in the state of Texas."

What's going right for Texas veterans?

When it comes to what's working for veterans in Texas, both Hancock and Blanco noted the care being provided at veterans homes across the state.

"I think we've done an excellent job as a state to provide services for some of these veterans that are aging out," Blanco said. "Great facilities where they receive comprehensive care. I think that's something that's working well."

State Sen. Kelly Hancock, R-Fort Worth, (left) and state Sen. Cesar Blanco, D-El Paso, pose for a photo with U.S. Air Force veteran Carlos Rivera following a roundtable discussion with El Paso veterans on Thursday, April 4, 2024.

Blanco added that he plans to introduce legislation aimed at further expanding the programs offered at Texas veterans homes.

Hancock noted that he recently visited a "world-famous" veteran medical facility in San Antonio, where veterans all over the state travel to receive burn treatment and other care.

"I am impressed with the care that they get and the type of facilities they have available," he said.

"Texas is doing a good job, we just want to keep making Texas better."

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: What can state legislators do to better support veterans across Texas?
Stolen medals of war hero who co-invented the tank found 50 years after theft

Tank Museum curator David Willey, said the medals are of 'great significance and importance'.

The medals awarded to one of the inventors of the tank have been donated to the Tank Museum after they emerged following a 50-year disappearance.

Medals belonging to Walter Gordon Wilson, whose work led to the tracks used on the first tanks, were stolen in 1954.

Wilsons grandson, Brigadier Henry Wilson, has taken possession of them after learning that they had come up for sale, and subsequently donated them.

He said: My grandfathers medals had been missing since stolen in 1954 so it was fortunate that I heard they were being put up for sale.

Thanks to the vendors cooperation the medals were returned to the family.

Brigadier Henry Wilson said: 'Thanks to the vendor's cooperation the medals were returned to the family.'

Due to Walters pioneering role in the invention of the tank, I felt that the Tank Museum was the appropriate home for them so we decided to donate them.

When Winston Churchill as First Lord of the Admiralty during WWI pushed for landships to be created, Wilson was put in charge of testing.

With William Tritton of the agricultural manufacturing firm Fosters of Lincoln, he worked to create what would become known as the tank.

Credited with inventing numerous key features

He is credited with inventing numerous key features, notably the track design for the test vehicle Little Willie, now on display at the museum.

He also invented Little Willies rhomboid successor Mother with the tracks running around the whole vehicle.

Later he improved the gear system in the Mark V tanks so a single operator could drive them, rather than a team of four as with earlier designs.

Walter Wilson (pictured), the owner of the lost medals, known for being an 'innovative thinker'

Tanks entered the fray in WWI on September 15, 1916, and would become a vital weapon in the allies victory.

Reflecting their leading role, Walter Wilson and his partner Sir William Tritton jointly received the largest financial award from the post-Great War Royal Commission for Inventors for their work on the tank.

Wilsons medals are now on display at the Royal Armoured Corps regimental museum in Dorset, along with the very early tanks that he helped to design.

The donated medals are the War Medal  awarded to all those who served in WWI  and the Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George (CMG).

The CMG was awarded in June 1917 in recognition of Wilsons contribution to the war effort.

Medals of great significance

David Willey, curator of the museum, said: These medals might be modest in one sense, but they are of great significance and importance to us because of whose they were.

Without Wilsons drive, creative mind and problem-solving skills the story of what became known as the tank might have been very different.

It is extremely generous of the family to donate the medals which will help us tell the story of how the landships were turned from an idea into reality.

Brigadier Henry Wilson said: My grandfather, after a brief early spell in the Royal Navy, studied mechanical science at Kings College, Cambridge.

Always an innovative thinker, he became involved with early powered flight before building his own motor cars, the Wilson-Pilcher, from 1901 to 1904.

He then worked on designing commercial vehicles for Armstrong-Whitworth before his leading wartime role in the tank story.

Wilson was born in Ireland in 1874. At Cambridge he met Charles Rolls  of Rolls-Royce fame  and acted as his mechanical engineer on several occasions.

After the First World War, Wilson patented the epicyclic pre-selector gearbox which was built by the family firm Self-Changing Gears Ltd at Coventry for over 40 years.

Walter Wilson died in 1957.

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According to Bloomberg, the EU is set to approve Ukraine's reform plan in May, unlocking an additional 1.9 billion euros ($2.04 billion) in financial aid during late spring.

After approving the four year Ukraine Facility in February, the EU committed to sending 50 billion euros ($54 billion) to Ukraine over the next few years.

The package provides funding to Ukraine from 2024 to 2027, with 33 billion euros ($35.8 billion) available in loans and 17 billion euros ($18.5 billion) in grants.

Ukrainian officials presented a proposal last month including investment and reform strategies, aimed at unlocking a significant portion of the EU's financial assistance until 2027. The European Commission is examining Ukraine's reform agenda intended to secure financial aid, with no major concerns raised thus far.

Some of the agreed-upon reforms include adopting a strategy for public debt management, a review of government budget expenditures, and expanding the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office staff numbers.

As of March 20, the European Commission has allocated an initial 4.5 billion euros ($4.8 billion) to Ukraine, marking the first payment under the agreement.

EU finance ministers will likely further discuss Ukraines plan this Friday in Luxembourg.

"I am grateful to the EU partners for the important decision to support Ukraine," Ukraine's Finance Minister Serhii Marchenko said.

Read also: European Commission delivers $4.8 billion to Ukraine in first tranche of macro-financial assistance

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The student councils at Mason Clark Middle School in East St. Louis District 189 and Collinsville High School in Collinsville District 10 are among the seven in Illinois to receive national recognition for their service and leadership.

Every year, the National Association of Student Councils doles out its National Council of Excellence Awards to middle and high school student councils that maintain strong year-round programs and work to improve their schools and communities through their leadership activities.

The Mason Clark Middle School and Collinsville High School student councils have each been recognized as a 2024 National Gold Council of Excellence, the highest of the two recognition levels.

Councils must go beyond the basics of having a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process by demonstrating sponsorship and participation in activities like leadership development as well as school and community service.

We are very excited to represent our school at the national level, David Walker, an 8th-grade student and vice president of Mason Clark Middle School Student Council, said in a press release from East St. Louis 189. We worked hard to make sure that our application demonstrated exactly what we can accomplish with the support of our peers and our administrators.

The student council marked its 10-year anniversary with an initiative to promote and maintain a positive school culture and climate, according to the release.

The Mason Clark Middle School Student Council is a fantastic example of how our young people excel when they have an opportunity to engage in leadership experiences, Superintendent Arthur Culver said. The council members are developing skills that are transferable to other lifelong opportunities they will encounter throughout their lives.

Receiving a National Gold Council of Excellence Award reflects the amazing dedication of the students and school to make their community a better place, said Ronn Nozoe, CEO of the National Association of Secondary School Principals, NASCs parent organization. Mason Clark Middle School has gone above and beyond in elevating student voice to ensure they are establishing a positive climate and culture, as well as fostering academic and social growth for all.

For Collinsville 10, this is the 19th consecutive year the high schools student council  referred to more succinctly as CHS StuCo  has been recognized as a National Gold Council of Excellence. CHS StuCo has received the recognition every year since the award was created in 2006.

Last summer, CHS StuCo hosted the 2023 Vision National Student Leadership Conference, the annual national gathering of hundreds of student council leaders.
A SunExpress flight from the UK to Turkey was forced to divert for an emergency landing in Serbia after an unruly passenger became disruptive mid-flight.

Flight XQ505 from Manchester to Dalaman made the diversion to Belgrade, Serbia to be met by local police on Tuesday evening (9 April).

Three hours into the Turkey-bound flight, cabin crew on board decided to divert the plane while flying over Sarajevo, Bosnia.

Video footage of the disruption taken by a fellow passenger shows a man and woman pointing and yelling at each other to sit down and f*** off.

In later clips, the man can be seen standing up in the aisle and restrained on the floor of the planes galley before his arrest.

The SunExpress plane had departed the northern aviation hub at 7.30pm before making the detour to land over 700 miles from its final Dalaman destination at 10.30pm.

A short time later, the flight continued its intended journey to the southwestern coast of Turkey.

The details of the passengers behaviour have not yet been revealed by authorities.

A spokesperson for SunExpress said: Our flight XQ505, which was scheduled from Manchester to Dalaman on 9th April, had to divert to Belgrade due to an unruly passenger. Upon arrival, the passenger was removed from the aircraft by local police and the aircraft continued to Dalaman after the passengers disembarkation.

The safety and security of our passengers and crew is of the highest priority to SunExpress.

Its not the first time this year an in-flight argument has forced an emergency landing.

In March, a United Airlines flight from London to Newark, New Jersey, was forced to divert to Bangor, in the US state of Maine, because of an intoxicated boyfriend arguing with his partner.

Two passengers were removed and one of them was detained and charged with assault and interfering with a flight crew, according to court documents.
Support for Ukraine aid has increased among Americans since last November, according to a Gallup poll released Friday.

More than a third of respondents, 36 percent, said that they believe the U.S. is not doing enough to help Ukraine in its war against Russia. An equal percentage said the U.S. is doing too much to aid Kyiv, more than two years after Moscow invaded Ukraine.

In November, 41 percent of those surveyed said the U.S. was doing too much to aid Ukraine, compared to 25 percent who said not enough was being done.

An increasing number of independents now supporting more aid to Ukraine is partially driving the results, Gallup noted.

Some 60 percent of Democrats in the new poll said support for Ukraine is inadequate. Just more than a third of independents, 34 percent, said the same, along with 15 percent of Republicans.

More people are also now saying that Russia is winning the war against Ukraine. Around 23 percent said that the Kremlin is on the winning side, a 9-point increase since last fall. Only 12 percent of adults now believe Ukraine is winning, an 8-point decrease.

The majority of respondents in the new poll, 65 percent, said the war is in a stalemate.

Additional U.S. support for Ukraine has been stalled on Capitol Hill for more than a year.

The Senate passed the $95 billion foreign aid package in February, which included $60 billion in funds for Ukraine. Aid to Ukraine, however, has been met with opposition from some hard-line GOP members of the House. No significant progress has been seen since the lower chamber came back from recess this week, in spite of Senate GOP leadership pressuring Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to put the foreign aid bill for a vote on the House floor.

The latest Gallup poll was conducted from March 1-17 among 2,222 adults. Its margin of error is 2 percentage points.

Updated at 10:04 a.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A Colorado man accused of kidnapping an 11-year-old Bakersfield girl pleaded not guilty Thursday to eight felony counts.

Joshua Michael Stehle pleaded not guilty to charges of kidnapping, contacting a minor to commit a sex act and possession of child pornography, among other offenses. Hes represented by attorney Mark Anthony Raimondo.

Stehle, 29, is being held without bail and is due back in court April 22.

O.J. Simpson, ex-NFL star acquitted in trial of the century, dies: family

On March 17, family of the girl reported her missing around 5:30 a.m., telling authorities theyd last seen her at about 2 a.m.

Deputies spoke with her friends and learned about a much older man who planned to marry her, according to a court filing. They gathered more information, pinged the suspects cellphone and alerted authorities in Utah after learning it was headed there on Interstate 70.

Stehles pickup was located near Salina, Utah, with him and the girl inside, the filing says. He was arrested and extradited to Kern County.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
Suspect charged with concealment of a death in connection with missing Belmont man

Suspect charged with concealment of a death in connection with missing Belmont man

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A suspect has been charged in connection to the Belmont man reported missing last month.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police say 31-year-old Andrew Tench was reported missing March 25 and last seen in Charlotte. His car was found abandoned in Monroe, according to Gaston County Police.

PREVIOUS: Belmont man reported missing; car found in Monroe

Charlotte resident DShaun Montrell Robinson, 26, was identified as a person of interest in this investigation.

CMPD officials say detectives executed a search warrant at Robinsons home Thursday, April 11. After speaking with police at CMPD headquarters, Robinson was arrested and charged with the following:

Felony concealment of a death

Felony identity theft

Felony financial card theft (2 counts)

Felony financial card fraud

Felony larceny of motor vehicle

Financial card fraud (3 counts)

Robinson is being held in the Mecklenburg County jail. He has a significant criminal history, including arrests for burglary, assault on a law enforcement officer, and drug possession.

Detectives with the CMPD will meet with family members of the victim to discuss the active missing person case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11)  Investigators have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a man during a road rage incident on a Bronx highway in August last year.

Joseph Epsinal, 26, is accused of shooting 40-year-old Fausto Rodriguez on the Cross Bronx Expressway near Jerome Avenue on Aug. 28, 2020, authorities said. First responders rushed him to the hospital but he could not be saved.

Subway fare evasion suspect punches NYPD officer in Manhattan: NYPD

Investigators said the victims vehicle was rear-ended by a Ford Edge occupied by four men, who ran from the scene after Rodriguez called 911 to report the incident. One of the passengers and another man then returned to the scene in a grey Toyota SUV and fought with the victim before he was shot, police said.

The two men fled the scene in the Toyota, which was later found abandoned, police said.

Rodriguez was a father of four and the family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses.

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Charline Charles is a digital journalist from Brooklyn who has covered local news along with culture and arts in the New York City area since 2019. She joined PIX11 News in 2022. See more of her work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Police in Georgia have identified but have yet to arrest a suspect in the fatal shooting of Black transgender man Righteous Torrence TK Hill, a popular hair salon owner who was shot in February outside his home in East Point, near Atlanta.

Hill, nicknamed Chevy, was shot February 28 and died the next day, Atlanta TV station WXIA reports. Police confirmed to The Advocate that the suspect is a cousin, Jaylen Hill, who had received much assistance from Chevy.

Chevy Hill's friend Yves Mathieu-East was among the first to report his death, with this post on Instagram.

Hill, 35, was the founder and owner of Evollusion, a hairstyling and beauty salon in Atlanta. Hills salon offered a much-needed safe space for the Black, LGBTQIA+ residents of Atlanta and its surrounding areas, Gaye Magazine reports.

Hill wanted to cultivate a space of safety where you can also get the affirming look and style you want, and he did exactly that, Mathieu-East wrote on Instagram, noting that Black barbershop culture can sometimes be homophobic, and Hill provided an alternative.

Hill's partner of six years, Terri Wilson, told WXIA, "He just wanted it to be a safe haven for the community."

And his friend Derek Baugh told the Human Rights Campaign, "The loss of Chevy is devastating to not only the Atlanta trans community and his family but to the world. Chevy was a bright light whose mission it was to help others shine on their own. I met Chevy when I founded my organization Ubuntu that focuses on serving Black transgender men. Chevy was one of the first people to ever support me and the organization. He faithfully attended our group, even on weeks when there were two participants-he always showed up. He was well known for his skill as a barber and for welcoming people of all genders and sexual orientations into his barbershop, Evollusion. He was such a good guy with a big heart and he deserved better than this. I will miss seeing him. I want people to understand that gender-based violence affects trans men in a despairing way too. Although he is now a risen ancestor, we must continue to lift his name & others in the struggle against gender-based violence."

Another friend, Sylvester XX, told HRC, "Chevys memory will be forever etched in my mind, heart and spirit. I met this amazingly caring and head strong human many years ago on his search for affirming resources. His ability to motivate, protect and take care of those he loved was evident from the first time we spoke. Familial support was so paramount to Chevy. So for his life to be taken this way is very disheartening. Some of the larger conversations we have to have are about mental health in Black communities, how rampant gun violence is in this nation, the heightened violence BIPOC TGNC (transgender and gender nonconforming) masculine people endure and how Black communities of marginalized people face overlapping social and economic determinants that no other communities have to navigate. Society learns to devalue Black and trans peoples lives through the many false narratives that have been created and spread by those who oppose LGBTQ+ equality. So, it is important to remind society that we all are human, we all deserve protection and policies in place to keep us safe. Chevy may not have known his true impact, but his legacy and the way he showed up for his community will continue to inspire and change the lives of people who look like him."

Evollusion posted on Facebook about Hills death and thanked those who had offered condolences. We know the awesome person Righteous was, but seeing the place he holds in you guys heart brings some joy to our difficult days, the post reads.

Hill was a beloved son, brother, partner, and father, Mathieu-East added.

Verna Hill Wilcox, Chevy's mother, told GLAAD her son had let his cousin Jaylen, who was going through some difficulties, stay at his home but that Jaylen had begun to abuse Chevy's generosity. TK had apparently purchased him uniforms and shoes to start another job, Wilcox said. TK had finally reached a point where it was like, no matter what we do for you, you still have a sense of entitlement, and youre not showing us the respect and love were showing you.

TK got into a verbal altercation with Jaylen, she continued. He was chastising him for using their stuff. Terri let them use their vehicle, and he stayed gone for four hours. When he came back, he had an attitude about somebody elses merchandise, and TK reprimanded him for that and told him to leave. She believes that led to the shooting.

The National Black Justice Coalition released this statement from Victoria Kirby York, director of public policy and programs: My heart breaks for Chevy and all who knew and loved him. The work he did to create a safe space for Black LGBTQ+/SGL people where they can receive affirming looks and styles without fear of harassment or judgment is incredible and will continue to impact his community and inspire the world. However, it makes you think about how much more he could have achieved had his life not ended so soon. Our people are constantly showing up and showing out for each other to ensure we have spaces to be free as our authentic selves without fear of violence. We need those who purport to care about our community to do the same thing, to protect us against the violence Chevy and too many others in the Black trans community experience. We urge Congress to pass the Chyna Gibson Stop the Transgender Murder Epidemic Act of 2023.

Anyone with information that may lead to an arrest is asked to contact Crime Stoppers Atlanta at its tip line, (404) 577-TIPS (8477), online at crimestoppersatlanta.org, or by texting CSA and the tip to CRIME (274637). Detective R. Graham is the lead Investigator in this case. His phone number is (404) 270-7069.
BRASILIA (Reuters) -A Brazilian judge has suspended the chair of state oil firm Petrobras' board, Pietro Sampaio Mendes, over a conflict of interest regarding his role in the Ministry of Energy, a court decision seen by Reuters on Thursday showed.

The ruling by Sao Paulo Judge Paulo Cezar Neves Junior also ordered wage and salary payments to Mendes be halted.

Besides conflict of interest, the ruling also cited other alleged non-compliance issues, including the lack of use of a recruitment agent when Mendes was appointed to the role.

In a statement, Petrobras said it would appeal to "defend the integrity of its internal governance procedures" and that any relevant developments would be disclosed to the market.

The ruling comes after the Sao Paulo court suspended another board member, Sergio Machado Rezende, on Monday over "alleged failure to comply with the requirements of the company's bylaws in the appointment."

According to a company source, two other board members could also be removed over conflicts of interest or for not meeting the necessary requirements for their roles.

Petrobras shareholders had appointed Mendes to the post last year.

The firm's previous board - chosen by the administration of right-wing former President Jair Bolsonaro alongside an internal committee - had initially ruled that Mendes and three other members of the incoming board were not suitable, in Mendes' case citing his ministry role.

Shareholders, however, went on to approve the nominations.

This week's rulings come as tensions simmer over the board's decision to withhold extraordinary dividends, against the wishes of Chief Executive Jean Paul Prates who had called for the distribution of half the available sum.

The conflict over the dividend worsened Prates' relations with the country's energy minister and prompted rumors his dismissal was likely.

On Wednesday, however, sources told Reuters the pressure on Prates had eased and he would likely remain in his role for now.

(Reporting by Ricardo Brito and Pedro Fonseca; Additional reporting by Natalia Siniawski; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Valentine Hilaire, Christopher Cushing and Lincoln Feast.)
(Bloomberg) -- Switzerland is heading for a popular vote on its long-standing neutrality amid a debate ignited by the the countrys decision to sanction Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Activists and the countrys right-wing Peoples Party, the largest in parliament, want to enshrine the position of permanent, armed neutrality in the constitution. In addition to preventing Switzerland taking part in any military alliance, the initiative also wants to block participation in non-military coercive measures, which would include sanctions.

The group behind the proposal submitted its petition, backed by more than 130,000 signatures, this week, though the actual vote wont take place for some time.

Switzerland has traditionally refused to take sides in European conflicts, but decided to adopt European Union sanctions against Russia in 2022. According to critics, that was a departure from neutrality and jeopardized the countrys role as an international mediator.

On the other hand, corporate leaders have been increasingly warning that neutrality is harming the countrys business prospects. Switzerland has been blocking weapon shipments from Germany and elsewhere to Ukraine, drawing international ire.

Read More: Switzerland Refuses to Take Sides in Ever More Divided World

The Peoples Party said this week that there have been targeted attempts to undermine neutrality, citing the countrys adoption of EU sanctions against Russia. It said this has undermined the international view of Switzerland as neutral.

The government says sanctions are compatible with neutrality and is trying to revive Switzerlands relevance by hosting on a conference on peace in Ukraine in June. Russia has already said it wont attend the meeting.

While the backers of the initiative have collected enough signatures, a vote is still some time off. Once the tally is legally certified, the government and parliament will discuss the issue, and the full process usually takes a number of years.

Swiss neutrality, which can be traced back to medieval cantons hiring out mercenaries to warring European states, was enshrined at the Treaty of Paris in 1815, after the defeat of Napoleon. Switzerland follows the legal obligations imposed on neutral states by the 1907 Hague Conventions.

A history of political fence-sitting barely survived World War II, when Switzerland violated its own neutrality by granting loans and selling arms to Nazi Germany. The neutral nation  while helping wounded soldiers and children  also sealed its borders to thousands of Jewish refugees.

(Updates to add timing of vote starting in third paragraph.)

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Representative of Taiwan in Germany Jhy-Wey Shieh speaks during an interview with the dpa German Press Agency. Michael Kappeler/dpa

Taiwan expects German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to issue a clear warning to Beijing against the use of military force against the self-governing island, on an upcoming visit to China.

In an interview with dpa, Taiwan's representative in Germany, Shieh Jhy-Wey, who functions as a de-facto ambassador for the island, said that Scholz had already found clear words on the issue during his last visit to China in November 2022.

However, the threats against Taiwan have increased since then, Shieh said.

"Perhaps the Chinese didn't really get the message back then," Shieh said. It would therefore "not be a bad thing if Mr Scholz were to say this again in plain language."

Scholz is travelling to China for three days on Saturday. He will meet President Xi Jinping, and other representatives of the Chinese government. He will be accompanied by three ministers as well as a business delegation.

Taiwan has had an independent government since 1949, but the communist People's Republic of China considers the democratic island with its 23 million inhabitants to be part of its territory and denies any form of official diplomatic contact between Taiwan and other countries.

Since the Russian attack on Ukraine, fears have been growing that China could annex Taiwan. The Chinese leadership has repeatedly threatened to take the island by force.

Shieh pointed out that an invasion would also very specifically affect the interests of Germany and the EU.

As the German and European economies are heavily dependent on semiconductors from Taiwan, this could be used by China as an "economic and technological weapon."

Shieh encouraged Scholz to continue on the path of reducing economic dependence on China.

He also wanted Germany to show a military presence in the strait between Taiwan and China, like the US, Great Britain and France. In May, another Bundeswehr frigate and a supply ship are to set off for the Pacific to underpin Germany's interest in the region with its important trade routes.

A similar mission had already taken place from August 2021 to February 2022. Although the frigate Bayern took part in manoeuvres with alliance partners, it avoided Taiwan. That was "disappointing," said Shieh. It would be a "sign" to China if things were different for the upcoming mission.

Shieh also hopes that Germany will work more closely with Taiwan. "Germany has a strategy towards China, but Germany is still allergic to Taiwan," he said.
Simulation of assault actions during additional training of fighters who entered the battalion after the Complexation Cente as Ukrainian soldiers undergo training before being sent to the front on April 8 - Libkos/Getty Images Europe

Today, we bring you the latest news from Ukraine, discuss Britains new dragonfire laser and I speak to a Ukrainian lieutenant colonel on a military base outside Kyiv on military strategy, the state of training and how the war may develop if aid from the West dries up.

Listen to Ukraine: the Latest, The Telegraphs daily podcast, using the audio player at the top of this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app.

This weeks Defence in Depth:

War in Ukraine is reshaping our world. Every weekday The Telegraphs top journalists analyse the invasion from all angles - military, humanitarian, political, economic, historical - and tell you what you need to know to stay updated.

With over 70 million listens, our Ukraine: The Latest podcast is your go-to source for all the latest analysis, live reaction and correspondents reporting on the ground. We have been broadcasting ever since the full-scale invasion began.

Ukraine: The Latests regular contributors are:

David Knowles

David is Head of Audio Development at The Telegraph, where he has worked for over three years. He has reported from across Ukraine during the full-scale invasion.

Dominic Nicholls

Dom is Associate Editor (Defence) at The Telegraph, having joined in 2018. He previously served for 23 years in the British Army, in tank and helicopter units. He had operational deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland.

Francis Dearnley

Francis is Assistant Comment Editor at The Telegraph. Prior to working as a journalist, he was chief of staff to the Chair of the Prime Ministers Policy Board at the Houses of Parliament in London. He studied History at Cambridge University and on the podcast explores how the past shines a light on the latest diplomatic, political, and strategic developments.

They are also regularly joined by Telegraph reporters and correspondents around the world, including Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent), James Kilner, (Foreign Correspondent and Editor of the Central Asia & the South Caucasus Bulletin), Sophia Yan (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Nataliya Vasilyeva (Middle East Correspondent), Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Colin Freeman (Foreign Correspondent), Danielle Sheridan (Defence Editor), and Tony Diver (US Editor).

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
A teachers repeated sex acts with a 15-year-old student came to light when his girlfriend checked his text messages, Texas police said.

Now, 29-year-old Kayden Burbank is charged with having an improper relationship between an educator and student, according to Harris County records.

McClatchy News reached out to Burbanks attorney April 9 but did not immediately receive a response.

When Burbanks girlfriend confronted him about the messages, he told her the texts came from one of his 15-year-old students, police said.

She told another person about what she learned, and that person reported it to the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District Police Department, an officer wrote in a criminal complaint.

The officer and a child welfare specialist spoke with the girl and learned her teacher first told her on Feb. 7 that he liked her, and he gave her his number a couple weeks later, police said in the report.

He began engaging in sex acts with her, in one instance calling her out of class to meet him in an empty classroom, police said.

She couldnt remember the exact date that happened, but she remembered she was wearing her ROTC uniform, according to police.

On March 25, Burbank reserved a hotel room where the two engaged in sex acts, and afterwards he texted her saying they could have just sat and held hands and it would have been worth it, police wrote in the complaint.

The next day day, his girlfriend discovered the texts, police said.

When police spoke with the teacher, he denied having physical contact with the 15-year-old and said he took her to Popeyes for lunch and they ate in the parking lot, according to court records.

Burbank was placed on administrative leave April 2, the day after police took the report, school officials told McClatchy News. He resigned April 9 and was booked in Harris County jail the same day.

The high school is part of the Houston metropolitan area.

If you have experienced sexual assault and need someone to talk to, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline for support at 1-800-656-4673 or visit the hotline's online chatroom.

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Teen charged with murder in suburban expressway shooting

CHICAGO  A 17-year-old boy was charged with murder in a deadly expressway shooting last month.

Illinois State Police responded to a report of a crash on March 16 just before 6:10 p.m. in the northbound lanes of I-94 near 170th Street in Lansing.

Troopers located a driver of a blue Infiniti SUV who sustained a gunshot wound from a shooting on Route 394 northbound at Thornton Lansing Road.

The driver was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

A 17-year-old was taken into custody on Thursday and charged with first-degree murder.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
(KRON)  The Sonoma County Fire District is searching for a teenager after crews were unable to rescue them in the Russian River on Thursday. A second teen was successfully rescued, and their condition is currently unknown.

The fire department received calls at 4:39 p.m. for a water rescue of two teens at Steelhead Beach, which is along the Russian River in Fosterville.

Crews were able to rescue one teen, who was transported to a hospital. Sonoma County officials are still searching for the other teen.

As of Thursday night, Sonoma County Sheriffs dive team was still at the scene searching the water.

This is a developing story. Stick with us for updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Teen wanted for homicide arrested in Pa.

STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Pennsylvania State Police reports they arrested a teen wanted on homicide charges in Alabama.

PSP stated on Thursday around 2:00 p.m., troopers helped the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force to arrest 19-year-old Malcolm Derr of Madison, Alabama.

Two arrested during traffic stop, meth, various drugs seized

Police say was arrested in Stroudsburg on homicide charges for a shooting that occurred in Huntsville, Alabama.

Derr was taken into custody and remains in the Monroe County Correctional Facility while waiting for extradition to Alabama.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
BRISTOL, Tenn. (WJHL)  Tennessees Secretary of State was in Bristol Friday morning to recognize student voters.

Secretary of State Tre Hargett presented Tennessee High School with the Anne Dallas Dudley Gold Level Award. The school received the award after 100% of its eligible students registered to vote.

Bristol State Liners announce plans for 2024 home games

Its fantastic, Hargett said. It tells you a lot about what the values of the community are, what they hold dear here at this high school as well. And also what I really hope it does is sends [an] example to other area schools as well, that next year they will set out to achieve this award.

In addition to Hargett, State Senator Jon Lundberg, State Representative John Crawford and Sullivan County Administrator of Elections Jason Booher attended the award presentation.

18 to 25-year-olds are the most underserved when it comes to their participation in elections, Booher said. They are the least likely to vote, and so seeing a commitment level of this degree indicates that they are prepared to change that and exercise their voice and make sure that their concerns and their issues are heard.

Photo: WJHL

Photo: WJHL

The Gold Level of the Dudley Award is reserved for schools that achieve 100% student voting registration. A Silver Level is awarded to schools that achieve at least 85%.

Tennessee High School government and economics teacher Andrew Cross also received an award Friday, and two student ambassadors were given certificates.

Its very important to me that the demographic they talked about, 18 to 25, is the lowest turnout, Cross said. If we give them this voice, we can change that demographic.

The lowest demographic of voters is people around my age, around 18 to 29, student ambassador Torey Walk said. So its really important for us to go out and vote, register to vote, to know that our vote matters.

Cross said Booher has come to speak on the importance of voting at Tennessee High School for years. According to Walker, Cross helped several students in their registration process.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
At least 40 missiles were launched on Israel from the territory of Lebanon on the evening of 12 April, IDF states. Hezbollah, a political party and militant group that first emerged in Lebanon after the 1982 Israeli invasion, took the responsibility for it.

Source: the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF); The Times of Israel

Quote by the IDF: "Following the sirens that sounded in northern Israel a short while ago, approximately 40 launches were identified crossing from Lebanese territory, some of which were intercepted. The rest fell in open areas. No injuries were reported."

Details: Earlier in the evening the air defence system of the IDF successfully intercepted two explosive UAVs of Hezbollah which had crossed the Lebanese territory and entered the territory of Israel.

Several launches, which passed the territory of Lebanon in the direction of Ramot Naftali, were also documented. There is no information concerning casualties.

Within the last few hours the IDF struck a number of settlements in the south of Lebanon "in order to remove [the] threat".

In the video posted on social media several interception missiles of the Iron Dome can be seen intercepting a barrage of missiles.

AFP reports that the US is transferring additional troops to the Middle East in anticipation of an Iranian attack on Israel.

Multiple Iron Dome interceptions seen over the Galilee Panhandle. https://t.co/zSXkgN2VVA pic.twitter.com/20KoQueqtL  Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 12, 2024

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Which Texas city has the best drinking water in the state? Heres who the judges picked

Out of 23 water providers in Texas, Dallas water was picked for having the best drinking water in the state. Dallas officials will head to Anaheim in June to compete for nationwide honors.

Drinking water is water that has been treated for human consumption. Unlike wastewater that has been used for other purposes and treated to be recycled, according to the Fort Worth Water Department.

The test was purely based on aesthetics: taste and smell.

Seven judges from the Fort Worth community, including District 2 City Councilmember Carlos Flores, sipped unlabeled water samples from 23 water providers throughout Texas and scored the entries based on taste, according to Texas water. No pH test, just their own senses.

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The first runner-up was water from the City of Denton, Lake Ray Roberts Water Treatment Plant. In third place was water from the San Jacinto River, Authority GRP Division.

The winning water from Dallas comes from Lake Bachman. However Dallas gets its water from a number of sources:

Lake grapevine

Lake Lewisville

Three different creeks

Lake Tawakoni

Lake Fork

Lake Ray Hubbard

Fort Worth gets their water from many sources as well. While the source of its water is from Tarrant County, Fort Worth has a few of their own water treatment facilities. Tarrant County draws from six different lakes.

Lake Bridgeport

Eagle Mountain Lake

Lake Worth

Cedar Creek

Richland-Chambers

Benbrook Lake

Water is very important to Texas. Without it, farmers wouldnt have the means to keep their livestock alive and water their plants. In 2022, Texas was in a drought that put certain regions at risk. Wells began drying up which meant counties needed to borrow water from one another. This Star Telegrams interactive map shows you how much water is in the reservoir nearest you.
Texas College Graduate Breathing on Her Own in ICU 2 Months After Hit-and-Run That Killed Friend

Camryn Herriage has been showing "positive signs" of progress, according to her relative

Camryn Herriage/Instagram Camryn Herriage

Two months after a hit-and-run crash killed her friend and left her on an ICU ventilator, Camryn Herriage is now breathing on her own, according to her relative.

On Sunday, April 7, Tim Herriage shared an update on the 23-year-old's progress in a post on Facebook.

Great news  Camryn has been breathing on her own for over 24 hours! the post began. A speech therapist will visit soon to assess her ability to use voice control. This step could potentially lead to her trying to speak, and if successful, they might plug the tracheostomy.

Tim added, Additionally, theres a hopeful outlook for Camryn to transition into a regular room within the next week or so. All of these developments are positive signs of Camryn's progress. Thank you for your continued support as we embrace this good news.

Camryn, a recent college graduate from Dallas, has been in the ICU since Feb. 11 following a crash that killed her former Texas Tech roommate Sara House. Four other people were injured, according to police.

Police arrested Carmen Guerrero in connection with the crash. According to jail records previously reviewed by PEOPLE, Guerrero, 27, faces a total of 12 charges, including one count of manslaughter and one for collision involving death.

Guerrero was taken into custody on Feb 22.

Last month, Camryns sister Casie Campanello told local media outlet Fox News 4 that the careless act had put us in a situation that changed all of our lives.

Camryn Herriage/Instagram Camryn Herriage

"We are very helpless and just stay strong for her, but its very difficult to see, Campanello said at the time, adding that when she came out of her first surgery, the surgeon told us he told us he never saw anyone make it to the hospital with her injury, so she has a purpose."

Campanello also told the outlet that she hadnt left her sisters side since the accident.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

According to the Fox News 4, Dallas police say that Guerrero crashed her Ford pickup truck into the back of the vehicle with Herriage, House, and their four friends inside. Guerrero then immediately fled the scene of the crash, the outlet reported.

The outlet also reported that, according to an arrest warrant affidavit, witnesses at the scene alleged Guerrero got out of the drivers side of the pickup truck wearing a small black dress and white clubbing shoes and ran away. The woman also appeared to be extremely intoxicated, the arrest warrant affidavit said, per Fox News 4.



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Texas Republicans want to punish abortion like baby-killing. Prison for women, or death | Opinion

Does Texas 2021 abortion law need to be straightened out?

Then why would Donald Trump say that about Arizonas law?

Texas staunchly anti-abortion Republicans were unsettled the other day, when their presidential candidate said that Arizona went too far banning most abortions.

Protesters gather April 11 at the Arizona Capitol in downtown Phoenix to protest the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling upholding an 1864 abortion law that bans the procedure in most cases.

Texas law is like Arizonas.

But here, Republicans arent debating exceptions for rape or incest.

Theyre debating whether to jail women and abortion doctors, and whether to impose the death penalty.

You think Im kidding?

Read it for yourself. Its in the Texas GOP platform.

In 2022, delegates at the state party convention made it a Republican priority to enforce equal protection for the unborn from the moment of fertilization.

In other words, abortion  or using the Plan B pill, or trashing embryos  could be prosecuted as child killing.

In Texas, a woman or doctor could face a charge of capital murder, murder or manslaughter.

For years, the party position has been that abortion is homicide.

But now the party essentially calls for felony punishment. Defendants could always argue duress.

Its item No. 36 in the Republican platform. Read it on the state party website at texasgop.org/platform.

Activists from Liberty Hill-based Abolish Abortion Texas pushed successfully for Republicans to make punishment a priority. That group considers other anti-abortion groups weak.

So you can imagine how leaders reacted to Trumps comment calling for common sense .... TO WIN ELECTIONS.

True love rejoices with the truth. This view is neither loving nor compassionate.



Lets make the murder of anyone illegal for everyone. - @bradleywpierce pic.twitter.com/pcVksFkHLg  Tom Ascol @tomascol (@tomascol) April 8, 2024

The truth is that Arizona has not gone far enough, wrote Bradley W. Pierce, a lawyer and leader of Abolish Abortion Texas.

In a frightening recent speech to a Hood County meeting of the Grapevine-based True Texas Project, group spokesman Paul Brown of Richardson said Gods law calls for killing those involved in abortion, Plan B or destroying embryos  eye for eye, tooth for tooth, life for life.

The county Republican chairman and some candidates were at the meeting. It was videoed and published by the Hood County Democratic Party.

Jon Speed, the pastor at By the Word Baptist Church in Briar, is a former Sundance Square street preacher who campaigns and protests for Abolish Abortion candidates.

He wrote bluntly on X.com: Pro-lifers, your decades of compromise have come home to roost. And his name is Donald J. Trump.

Speed is pushing for Republicans to adopt a platform plank to specifically outlaw discarding IVF embryos. The proposal will be submitted at the state party convention May 23-25 in San Antonio.

Speed also wrote that he would campaign door-to-door this weekend for North Richland Hills Republican David Lowe, an Abolish Abortion candidate for the Texas House.

Lowe is challenging incumbent state Rep. Stephanie Klick in the May 28 runoff.

At #RPT2022 Bradley Pierce of @AATXNow testistifies that he supports changing the law so that women could get the the death penalty for abortion. #txlege pic.twitter.com/ppKrSpzJBo  TexasAllianceforLife (@TXAlliance4Life) June 14, 2022

For the first time, Abolish Abortion candidates are campaigning with money from two West Texas energy blllionaires, Christian school founder Tim Dunn of Midland and Eastland County preacher Farris Wilks.

More established pro-life leaders, such as Kyleen Wright of Arlington-based Texans for Life, are sticking with the position that abortion is wrong but that the way to promote the cause is to win hearts and votes, not to punish women.

Based on recent elections in other states that protected abortion rights, it is evident the pro-life movement has more work to do, she wrote in a message.

Texans for Life supports the incremental approach that led to Texas abortion ban, she wrote.

Wright described Trumps position as inarticulate but added: We understand his desire to not get ahead of the will of the voters.

Texas Republicans may not understand the concept of going too far.

Do you have an opinion on this topic? Tell us!

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A 28-year-old Texas man has pleaded guilty to a $1 million kickback scheme that took place over an almost two-year span in Kansas.

The Department of Justice announced Thursday that Mercele Brooks, of Harker Heights, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of accessory after the fact to laundering monetary instruments.

The fraudulent customer refund scheme involved more than an dozen suspects, according to the DOJ.

Out of control wild fire spreading rapidly in Platte County, near Bean Lake

The DOJ revealed that four other people were involved  Kanesha Mercer, Darius Polite, Rudy Hunt and Veronica Kilman  who all worked at Advanced Call Center Technologies (ACCT) in Junction City, Kansas, and processed customer refunds for AT&T Digital Life home security systems.

The fraudulent refunds, which took place between December 2016 and August 2018, totaled to approximately $1 million. The DOJ said employees had a system established where they would deposit the funds in co-conspirators accounts, and then receive a portion of their share later.

According to the DOJ, Brooks received $100,317 in wire fraud proceeds.

This type of fraud, put simply is greed driven. These crimes are not victimless, as ultimately costs are passed on to the consumer, said FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Stephan A. Cyrus.

This investigation determined that multiple bad actors took part in this scheme, and this plea demonstrates that these individuals are being held accountable for their actions.

Independence remains are latest found by mushroom hunters

The DOJ also revealed the charges against the four employees, as well as several others who were involved. It included:

Kanesha Mercer, 35 , pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and was sentenced to 14 months in prison.

Kory Epps Jr., 25 , pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and was sentenced to 10 months in prison.

Caylon McCormick pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and was sentenced to six months in prison.

Darius Polite, 30 , pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is awaiting sentencing.

Anthony Charite, 33, Kiondra Armstrong, 30, Fontelle Jolly, 26, Veronica Kilman, 33, Rudy Hunt, 32, and Sharika Pope, 42 , pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.

Erica Jackson, 41, and Shunqureau Gilbert, 30, pleaded guilty to laundering of monetary instruments.

Currently, the FBI is still investigating, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Skip Jacobs is prosecuting the case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
A respected Houston transplant surgeon has been accused of altering database information for patients waiting on a new liver  and now, his former employer is admitting that parts of the allegations are true.

As the New York Times reports, surgeon J. Steve Bynon of Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in Houston allegedly changed government database records to preclude his own patients from getting liver transplants, and many of them died while on the waiting list.

Following the NYT's initial publication of the claims, Memorial Hermann admitted that a doctor in the teaching school's kidney and liver programs had changed patient records, in effect denying them transplants. Someone familiar with the situation told the newspaper that the doctor in question was Bynon.

Because transplant surgeries are both dangerous and expensive, hospitals have criteria for who will be the best fit for one, and often exclude patients based on health factors such as weight, smoking, alcohol use, and age.

While each department has leeway about how it chooses to handle these cases, there are general guidelines  and authorities at Memorial Hermann found, based on a tip-off, that there were some serious irregularities on its liver transplant waiting list. In one instance, as the NYT reports, it listed a toddler as being a whopping 300 pounds  which, of course, is medically impossible.

Over the past week, both programs abruptly shut down as the University of Texas began looking into the allegations against Bynon, who has led the school's abdominal transplant department since 2011. Later, both the US Department of Health and Human Services and the United Network for Organ Sharing, which governs our country's organ donation and transplant services, said they were investigating the matter, too.

When reached by the newspaper, Bynon did not confirm that he had tampered with patient records, and referred the NYT to his employer. It remains unclear why he would have changed the data.

If the records and waiting lists were indeed tampered with, other doctors say that patients would not be informed that their status had changed.

"Theyre sitting at home, maybe not traveling, thinking they could get an organ offer any time, but in reality, theyre functionally inactive, and so theyre not going to get that transplant," Sanjay Kulkarni, the vice chair of the ethics committee at the United Network for Organ Sharing, told the NYT. "Its highly unusual, Ive never heard of it before, and its also highly inappropriate."

Despite being a relatively small program, the NYT and experts its reporters spoke to say that Memorial Hermann's liver transplant department seemed to be disproportionately small based on the number of surgeries it had performed. Indeed, last year it only performed 29 transplants, which made it one of the smallest such programs in Texas  and in that same time frame, 14 people were taken off the transplant list because they either became too sick to undergo surgery or died.

According to the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients research group, the mortality rate for people waiting for livers at Memorial Hermann was higher than expected, too.

Because the liver and kidney programs have been suspended  which according to medical experts the newspaper spoke with is quite rare, especially over ethical issues  hundreds of patients on the hospital's waiting list are now being referred to other programs.

More on medical ethics: Startup That Selects Embryos with Good Genes Says It's Not Doing Eugenics
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The Tom Green County Sheriffs Office apprehended a known fugitive after a traffic stop turned into a foot pursuit during the afternoon hours of April 11.

According to the sheriffs office, a patrol deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Barton Street and East 29th Street at approximately 12:32 p.m. on April 11 after observing that a vehicle traveling northbound on Martin Luther King Drive had no registration sticker.

During the stop, a passenger identified as 48-year-old Corey Underhill exited the vehicle and attempted to evade law enforcement on foot. A perimeter was set during the search, and Underhill was caught while attempting to hide in a nearby residence.

Underhill was taken into custody with the help of the San Angelo Police Department. Underhill had an active felony warrant out of Upton County for evading arrest with a vehicle and had a previous conviction for evading arrest on foot.

Deputies later discovered clothing Underhill discarded during the pursuit in a shed near a residence. Near the clothing, deputies found approximately 4.56 grams of methamphetamine that Underhill later confessed was his that he was attempting to hide.

Underhill was booked into the Tom Green County Jail for the following charges:

Evading Arrest Detention with Previous Conviction  State Jail Felony

Possession of Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 >=4 grams <200 grams  2nd Degree Felony

Upton County Warrant  GOB*Evading Arrest with Vehicle

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
FREEDOM, Okla. (KFOR)  Three people have been arrested following a double homicide in Freedom, Oklahoma.

According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Woods County Sheriffs Office requested the bureaus help on Thursday, April 11, regarding a double homicide investigation.

LOCAL NEWS: Loved ones remember man found dead in Freedom alleged double homicide

Officials say around 4 a.m. Thursday morning, deputies responded to a home near Saddlehorn Drive and Dusty Trail regarding possible gunshots. Upon arrival, they found 70-year-old Gary Bradt who was deceased and 19-year-old Timothy Wilcox who was critically injured. Wilcox later died at the scene.

Based on the information gathered at the scene, three people were found and detained for questioning.

Christopher Padilla.

Elijah Mann.

The OSBI says 23-year-old Christopher Padilla, 20-year-old Elijah Mann and a 17-year-old female were arrested on two counts of First-Degree Murder. All three have been booked into the Woodward County Jail.

Both Bradt and Wilcox were taken to the Office of the Oklahoma Chief Medical Examiner where a cause and manner of death will be determined.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
SAN DIEGO (Border Report)  Three boys in the city of Mexicali have been detained and are under investigation for animal cruelty, stemming from sexual encounters with dogs, according to Baja Californias Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade Ramirez.

Mexicali is about 120 miles east of Tijuana and is the states capital.

Andrade Ramirez says the young suspects were recording themselves while having sex with the animals.

Videos have circulated where you see one minor, and I dont even know how to describe it, sexually abusing and having relations with a dog, she said. This is zoophilia, having sexual relations with these small animals that are defenseless while others were recording.

Zoophilia, some call it bestiality, is described as sexual attraction of a human toward an animal, which may involve the experience of sexual fantasies about the animal or the pursuit of real sexual contact with it.

The attorney general said two of the boys involved are 11 years old, the other is 13.

The younger ones have been referred to counseling along with their parents for abhorrent behavior, the 13-year-old will be tried as a minor under the law and is facing 25 years in custody, according to Andrade Ramirez.

The parents wont face any penalties unless we find they were involved  the investigation is ongoing as we are still gathering videos that have been placed on social media, she said.

According to Andrade Ramirez, five dogs are now being treated for sexual abuse.

They were rescued by our agents in coordination with the Animal Control department, the dogs are being guarded.

The animals have been taken to an animal sanctuary in Mexicali.

We found out about this on April 4 when a video surfaced on social media, our investigators tracked the IP address for the device that distributed the material, said Ramirez.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
At least three Cabinet ministers are considering voting against Rishi Sunaks flagship smoking ban on Tuesday, The Telegraph understands.

Several senior ministers are undecided on whether to back the legislation just days before it faces its first Commons test, raising the prospect that the Tory backlash over the policy could spread all the way up to the top of the Government.

Under the plans, which will be debated by MPs for the first time on Tuesday, the legal age at which people can purchase cigarettes will rise annually from the age of 18, effectively banning anyone currently aged 14 or younger from ever being able to buy cigarettes.

Disposable vapes will also be banned outright, while reusable ones will be limited to four flavours.

Mr Sunak put the radical move front and centre of his keynote speech at Tory conference last autumn, saying the changes were a chance to do the right thing for our kids.

It is seen as a potentially defining part of his legacy. The Prime Minister has said the proposals will save tens of thousands of lives, and billions of pounds for the NHS.

However critics have deemed the policy absolutely nuts and an extension of the nanny state.

The policy will be put to a free vote, meaning the usual collective responsibility that binds ministers does not apply. As a result, both Cabinet members and ordinary Tory MPs can vote against Mr Sunaks plan without facing any disciplinary action.

One backbencher estimated that around 100 colleagues could defy the Prime Minister, which would make it the biggest revolt of his premiership  albeit on a free vote.

However, the legislation is almost certain to pass regardless of any Conservative backlash, as Labour have agreed to back it.

The Governments working majority is now 51, meaning only 26 Tories would have to vote against the plans to leave Mr Sunak reliant on Labour votes. To force a defeat, at least 274 Tories would need to oppose the policy, subject to how other parties voted.

Ban profoundly unconservative

While Downing Street is sure to argue that any Cabinet minister who opts not to vote with the Prime Minister is within their rights to take a different view, a lack of support at a senior level would doubtless raise questions about the degree to which they have confidence in Mr Sunaks judgment.

It will also fuel concerns that the move is unconservative and illiberal.

A source close to Suella Braverman, who was sacked as home secretary by Mr Sunak in November, told The Telegraph on Thursday she was not a fan of the proposals.

Liz Truss, the former prime minister, has called the move profoundly unconservative and an example of the nanny state in action.

Boris Johnson has described the plan as absolutely nuts, adding: When the party of Winston Churchill wants to ban cigars, donnez-moi un break, as they say in Quebec. Its just mad.

Although dozens of Tory MPs are understood to have concerns about the smoking ban, rebels are split about whether to oppose the Bill outright or attempt to amend it. There will not be the opportunity for changes until it moves to its report stage following Tuesdays vote.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Three California correctional officers were injured Thursday morning, including one who was stabbed twice, at a prison hospital in Stockton where an inmate reportedly retrieved a weapon and attacked the officers, state authorities said.

Shortly before 7 a.m., correctional officers were conducting a mass search at the California Health Care Facility on Austin Road in Stockton.

Two correctional officers were trying to handcuff inmate Brandon S. Keen, but Keen resisted, retrieved the weapon and stabbed one officer twice and sliced another officers hand, according to a news release from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Prison staff Immediately responded and used physical force to restrain Keen and quell the attack on the officers, state prison officials said. During that response, another correctional officers hand was injured.

The three correctional officers were transported to an outside hospital. Prison officials said the injured officers were treated and released from the hospital and were in good condition. They also said peer support services are being offered to employees.

Keen was treated for minor injuries, placed on restricted housing status and transferred to another detention facility, according to the CDCR news release.

On March 29, 2013, Keen was sentenced to 25 years for a conviction of mayhem in Riverside County. Prison officials said Keens conviction was considered a second strike under Californias Three Strikes law. He has been in CDCR custody since April 9, 2013.

While incarcerated, Keen was sentenced to life with the possibility of parole for second-degree murder, assault by a prisoner with a deadly weapon or force likely to result in great bodily injury, along with possessing or manufacturing a deadly weapon as a prisoner, according to the CDCR news release. Keen reportedly committed those offenses while incarcerated, and conviction was considered a third strike with previous felony convictions.

Before his 2013 conviction, Keen had served four sentences in prison for Riverside County convictions of receiving stolen property, second-degree burglary, vandalism, assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury and arson of property, prison officials said.

CDCR said it will submit its attempted homicide investigation of Thursdays attack on the correctional officers to the San Joaquin County District Attorneys Office seeking possible felony charges.
Three people injured in Russian airstrike on Sumy

The Russian forces have launched an airstrike on the civilian infrastructure and a residential area in the city of Sumy, injuring three people.

Source: Sumy Oblast Military Administration

Quote: "The Sumy hromada [a hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]: an airstrike was launched on the civilian infrastructure and a residential area in the city of Sumy. Three people were injured in the strike."

Details: Over the past day the Russians launched 20 attacks on the border areas and settlements of Sumy Oblast. In total, 112 explosions have occurred.

The Russians struck Myropillia hromada by mortar fire. In total, seven explosions occurred.

Mortar attacks were launched on Khotin hromada. Two explosions were documented.

Svesa hromada was struck with artillery (one explosion) and multiple-launch rocket systems (three explosions).

The Russians dropped two mines on Mykolaivka hromada.

Yesman hromada was struck by kamikaze drones.

Yunakivka hromada was attacked by artillery fire (six explosions).

The Shalyhyne hromada was struck with artillery (five explosions).

The Russians shelled Bilopillia hromada with mortars (20 explosions).

Eight mines were dropped on Putyvl hromada.

Seredyna-Buda hromada was struck with mortars (three explosions).

A mortar attack was launched on Velyka Pysarivka hromada (four explosions). It was also attacked with AGS grenade launchers (41 explosions).

Krasnopillia hromada was struck with mortars (eight explosions).

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A sign in the General Public Prosecutor's Office at the opening of the Central Office for the Prosecution of Terrorism in North Rhine-Westphalia. German authorities have arrested three teenagers aged 15 and 16 on suspicion of plotting a deadly Islamist terrorist attack in the western German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, prosecutors said on Friday. Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa

German authorities have arrested three teenagers aged 15 and 16 on suspicion of plotting a deadly Islamist terrorist attack in the western German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, prosecutors said on Friday.

The state's Central Office for the Prosecution of Terrorism (ZenTer NRW) sought an arrest warrant for the teenagers over the Easter holiday.

The detained suspects are a 15-year-old girl from Dusseldorf, a 16-year-old girl from the Markischer Kreis district and a 15-year-old boy from the Soest district, located about 100 kilometres to the east of Dusseldorf.

According to investigators, the teenagers are accused of having agreed to commit murder and manslaughter in conjunction with the preparation of a serious act of violence endangering the state. The presumption of innocence applies in all stages of the proceedings.

Security sources told dpa that the young people had formed a chat group, but had not drawn up a concrete attack plan for a particular time and place. The sources said that authorities had also conducted searches as part of the investigation.

Investigators had "definitely seen a danger" in their preparations despite the lack of a specific attack plan, according to a source.
A view of the regional court and district court. German authorities have arrested three teenagers aged 15 and 16 on suspicion of plotting a deadly Islamist terrorist attack in the western German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, prosecutors said on Friday. Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa

German authorities have arrested four teenagers on suspicion of plotting a deadly Islamist terrorist attack in the western German state of North Rhine Westphalia, prosecutors said on Friday.

The state's Central Office for the Prosecution of Terrorism sought an arrest warrant for the teens over the Easter holiday.

They are suspected of plotting a terrorist attack "in accordance with the aims and ideology of [extremist terror group] Islamic State."

Three of the suspects are from North Rhine Westphalia, according to the state's interior minister, Herbert Reul: a 15-year-old girl from Dusseldorf, a 15-year-old boy from the town of Lippstadt and a 16-year-old girl from the city of Iserlohn.

The fourth is a 16-year-old boy from the town of Ostfildern in south-western Germany.

Reul said police first became aware of the 16-year-old girl from Iserlohn because there were indications that she wanted to leave the country to join the so-called Islamic State and fight in its ranks.

She reportedly discussed her plans on the phone with the girl from Dusseldorf, according to Reul. When searching their mobile phones, the investigators then came across a second chat in which the alleged attack plans were discussed.

According to the investigation, the 15-year-old boy from Lippstadt appeared to be the driving force in the discussions.

"Only five days passed from first becoming aware of the case to the final arrest," said Reul.

He expressed gratitude that authorities had thwarted the alleged plot so quickly, but said he was alarmed and concerned about the young age of the suspects.

"The internet certainly played a role in their radicalization. Social media and internet consumption is perhaps also one of the reasons why child and youth crime is on the rise," Reul said.

Security sources told dpa that the young people had formed the chat group, but had not drawn up a concrete attack plan for a particular time and place.

However, sources said that the cities of Dortmund, Dusseldorf and Cologne were discussed as targets, and attacks with knives and Molotov cocktails on people in churches or police officers in police stations had been considered.

Reul also said the suspects had discussed attacks on churches and synagogues in Iserlohn, as well as a potential attack in the nearby city of Hagen.

Security sources told dpa that authorities had also conducted searches as part of the investigation. A machete and a dagger were seized in Dusseldorf, but no evidence of the construction of incendiary devices was discovered.

"Instruments were found that can be used to kill people," said Reul.

Sources said that the father of the Dusseldorf suspect had already attracted attention from authorities in the past because he had allegedly collected donations for the Islamic State.

The investigators declined to reveal how the suspected terrorists were tracked down, but said that foreign intelligence agencies "did not play a role."
Police say they have arrested three women in connection with a theft ring from stores in multiple states along the West Coast.

At least 42 stores were hit by the theft ring, according to prosecutors. The theft ring targeted mainly Lululemon stores in Western Washington, Northern Oregon and Southern California.

The trio is accused of stealing over $537,000 worth of merchandise.

Bellevue Police Department identified the suspects as Janeice Wiley, 49; her daughter Janeice Downs, 24; and Reality Leavens.

Wiley and Downs were arrested at Downs house in Kent on Wednesday. Three rifles were seized at the time of the arrest along with over evidence. Wiley and Downs are both convicted felons and are not allowed to own any weapons.

Leavens is facing charges already in another retail theft case that took place in December. She was reportedly one of four women who had stolen over $20,000 worth of sunglasses from a Nordstrom store at Bellevue Square Mall.

This case is an excellent example of the hard work of our Officers and Detectives. Bellevue Police Assistant Chief of Police Andrew said in a statement. The message is clear: if you engage in criminal activities in Bellevue, we will work tirelessly to locate you and hold you accountable for your actions.
Former President Trumps hush money trial is scheduled to begin Monday in New York City, and security is set to be tight.

The U.S. Secret Service, New York City Police Department and New York State Unified Court System released statements Friday saying they are working together to ensure the highest level of safety and security for the upcoming legal proceedings.

The U.S. Secret Service is prepared to effectively carry out our protective mission here in New York, Patrick J. Freaney, the special agent in charge from the Secret Services New York field office, said in a statement. While operational security precludes us from going into specifics, the U.S. Secret Service will not seek any special accommodations outside of what would be required to ensure the continued safety of the former president.

Trump has been charged with falsifying business records in relation to the hush money payments that his former fixer, Michael Cohen, made to porn star Stormy Daniels, to cover up an alleged affair ahead of the 2016 presidential election.

The case is the first of the former presidents to head to trial, as well as the first criminal trial of a former president.

Trumps repeated attempts to delay the trial past Election Day have been denied. He has argued the trial should be postponed indefinitely because of the barrage of media coverage of the case, saying the publicity prejudices potential jurors.

New York City Police Department Commissioner Edward Caban said planning for a high-profile security event like the trial is very familiar ground for local law enforcement.

Our longstanding relationships with each of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, including the U.S. Secret Service and the New York State Unified Court System, will help secure the courthouse and everyone inside, facilitate peaceful assembly outside the building, and maintain the safe flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the surrounding areas for the duration of the proceedings, Caban said in a statement.

The New York State Unified Court System emphasized a similar message. The court officers are highly trained and experienced in managing high-profile trials, Chief of Department Michael Magliano said in a statement.

Magliano said his team is ready to protect the safety of everyone in the courthouse, including trial participants, the media and the general public.

Jury selection in the case begins Monday. The trial is expected to last six to eight weeks, and Trump is required to be in court every day.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The last opportunity for U.S. nationals to flee violence-wracked Haiti on a government-chartered evacuation flight arrived Friday, with no sign of the chaos easing in the tiny Caribbean nation. The U.S. State Department said last week in an email to Americans in Haiti that charter flights were not scheduled to continue after April 12.

CBS Miami's Tania Francois said the last scheduled evacuation flight from Haiti was scheduled to arrive Friday afternoon in South Florida.

Gunfire echoed through the streets of Haiti's embattled capital city this week, forcing charities to suspend care for citizens, according to The Associated Press.

Haiti, already reeling from years of political unrest and gang violence, was plunged into spiraling chaos on Feb. 29 when the heavily-armed gangs launched a unified attack on government institutions and infrastructure.

Haitian policemen stand guard on a street corner amid gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, April 8, 2024. / Credit: CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP/Getty

The barely-functioning government declared a state of emergency that has been extended through May 3, with a nighttime curfew in place until at least April 17, the prime minister's office said in an announcement shared on social media.

The United Nations says more than 1,550 people were killed in Haiti during the first three months of 2024 alone.

A new report by Haitian human rights group the National Human Rights Defense Network, which has tracked gang violence against civilians since Feb. 29, details the stories of hundreds of people who have been murdered or attacked, with the goal being to ensure that those who were responsible are eventually held accountable.

The report highlights a worrying trend of sexual violence in addition to the killings, documenting at least 64 rapes since January  many of them women or girls who were allegedly gang-raped by "armed bandits."

The U.N.'s World Food Program said Thursday that it had expanded efforts to provide food assistance as the crisis has also sent the number of people going hungry in Haiti to record highs. But the agency warned that as the ongoing chaos impacts ports in the country, its food stocks "risk running out by the end of the month."

The Associated Press reported Friday evening that a transitional council tasked with choosing Haiti's next prime minister and cabinet, and guiding the country out of its political crisis, has been established. According to the AP, the formation of the council, announced in a decree published Friday in a Haitian government gazette, was expected to trigger the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who promised to step down once the council was created. Henry did not immediately comment, the AP reported.

Democratic lawmakers called Thursday on the U.S. government to do more for Haiti after meeting with human rights advocates and Haitian organizations, according to the Reuters news agency.

They urged an extension of temporary protection status for Haitian migrants, an end to forced deportations of Haitians from the U.S., and new action to combat weapons trafficking into the country that sits only about 700 miles from Miami.

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a Florida Democrat who is the only Haitian-American representative in Congress, said the country was "at a tipping point, and we need a solution now."

Meet the California Democrats getting money from Big Oil

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Boris Johnson, former UK Prime Minister, has urged Western countries to lift the restrictions on the supply of the armament Ukraine needs to defeat Russia in its full-scale war.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Johnsons weekly column in the Daily Mail tabloid

Details: Johnson asks rhetorical questions "why the delay" and "what the hell has got into us", criticising the West for delaying military aid for Kyiv.

The former UK PM warned that a hypothetical defeat of Ukraine in the war against Russia would become a "turning point in history", when the West "finally loses its post-war hegemony", and aggressors ignore the borders.

"It will be a terrifying moment for the people of Taiwan and the clearest possible signal to China that the West has lost the willpower to protect democracy," he stressed.

Johnson says that due to the lack of ammunition the Ukrainian troops have to sit through Russian bombings, and due to insufficient air defence the city of Kharkiv may turn into "another Mariupol".

He urged the US Congress to adopt the US$60 billion military aid package for Ukraine as soon as possible, and Germany to supply Kyiv with Taurus missiles.

"It is time for the West, including Britain, to snap out of our sleep-walk; to recover the spirit of Reagan and Thatcher and invest in the defence of our freedoms. The simplest and most cost-effective way to defend freedom is to invest now in the defence of Ukraine," Johnson stressed.

Boris Johnson has been actively supporting Ukraine since the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion and advocates for supplying it with all the aid it needs.

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Armenia is not against the start of border delimitation from four villages in the Gazakh region of Azerbaijan, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said, Azernews reports.

"We are not opposed to starting the delimitation process from the Tavush region and four villages of the Gazakh region of Azerbaijan," he noted.

Meanwhile, Armenia's Parliament discussed the issue of delimitation and demarcation of borders with Azerbaijan on April 9 at the initiative of factions of opposition parties.

The discussion of the issue was held in closed mode. Armenia's former Defense Minister, head of the opposition Hayastan parliamentary faction, Seyran Ohanyan, and nine other members of the Armenian parliament were not admitted to the session.

To note, the seventh session of the State Commission on State Border Delimitation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia and the Commission on State Border Delimitation and Border Security between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan was held on March 7 at the conditional border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan.

The sides exchanged views on delimitation issues and proceeded to the agreement of the draft Regulations on the joint activities of the State Commission on Delimitation of the State Border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia and the Commission on Delimitation of the State Border and Border Security between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as discussed the drafts of the relevant instructions on the procedure of delimitation works.
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53% of the business is held by the top 4 shareholders

Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock

To get a sense of who is truly in control of CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (KLSE:CIMB), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. With 43% stake, institutions possess the maximum shares in the company. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

Since institutional have access to huge amounts of capital, their market moves tend to receive a lot of scrutiny by retail or individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about CIMB Group Holdings Berhad.

View our latest analysis for CIMB Group Holdings Berhad

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About CIMB Group Holdings Berhad?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

We can see that CIMB Group Holdings Berhad does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This can indicate that the company has a certain degree of credibility in the investment community. However, it is best to be wary of relying on the supposed validation that comes with institutional investors. They too, get it wrong sometimes. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see CIMB Group Holdings Berhad's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in CIMB Group Holdings Berhad. Khazanah Nasional Berhad is currently the largest shareholder, with 22% of shares outstanding. Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia is the second largest shareholder owning 15% of common stock, and Permodalan Nasional Berhad holds about 10% of the company stock.

To make our study more interesting, we found that the top 4 shareholders control more than half of the company which implies that this group has considerable sway over the company's decision-making.

Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too.

Insider Ownership Of CIMB Group Holdings Berhad

The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

Our data suggests that insiders own under 1% of CIMB Group Holdings Berhad in their own names. Being so large, we would not expect insiders to own a large proportion of the stock. Collectively, they own RM10m of stock. It is good to see board members owning shares, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying.

General Public Ownership

With a 23% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over CIMB Group Holdings Berhad. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with CIMB Group Holdings Berhad , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Toddler returned to Southern California after being abducted to Mexico

A toddler who was abducted and taken to Mexico in February has been safely returned to Southern California.

The boy, who is 17 months old, was identified as Miguel Eduardo Zuniga Medina, Jr., according to the FBI.

On Feb. 6, the boys mother, Brigette Benitez, 31, who does not have custody of the child, was scheduled for an unsupervised visit with the boy in Walnut.

Instead of returning the boy to his legal guardian, she took him and brought him across the border to Mexico, authorities said, crossing through the Otay Mesa Port of Entry in San Diego County.

The next day, a federal arrest warrant was filed for Benitez, charging her with international parental kidnapping.

Benitez took the child to the Aguascalientes region where his father, who also doesnt have custody, was believed to be living.

Miguel Eduardo Medina, 17 months old, in a photo from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

Brigette Benitez, 31, and Miguel Eduardo Medina, 17 months old, in photos from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

Brigette Benitez, 31, is believed to have kidnapped her biological son and brought him into Mexico. The FBI is searching for her whereabouts. (FBI)

Miguel Eduardo Medina was located in Mexico and brought back to Southern California on April 5, 2024. (Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department)

Brigette Benitez was seen driving away in a 2021 black Toyota Camry sedan with California license plate 8WAS968. (Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department)

Brigette Benitez, 31, and Miguel Eduardo Medina, 15 months old, in photos from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

The boys father, Miguel Eduardo Zuniga Medina, Sr., was arrested in 2023 for an alleged domestic violence incident and has a history of engaging in violent altercations in the presence of children, according to court documents.

After he was arrested, the toddler was placed into the custody of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.

The Superior Court in Los Angeles County found that it was necessary to remove Zuniga Medina, Jr. from his parents for his own health, safety, and well-being, officials said.

On April 3, the boy was located by authorities in Mexico. Two days later, he was brought back safely to Los Angeles. He was placed with a foster family and appeared to be safe and healthy, FBI officials said.

Kathy Fiscus Tragedy in Southern California: 75 years later

His mother was deported by Mexican authorities and remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

The case was investigated by multiple agencies including the FBI, LASD, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the United States Marshals Service and the San Diego County Sheriffs Department, with assistance from several law enforcement agencies in Mexico.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Editors Note: Police corrected their original release on the name of the shooting victim. The name has been changed in the story below to reflect this change.

TOPEKA (KSNT)  The Topeka Police Department (TPD) was at Resers Fine Foods on reports of a deadly shooting Thursday afternoon.

City spokeswoman Rosie Nichols says officers were called just after 4:30 p.m. on April 11 to 3167 SE 10th Street in Topeka at Resers Fine Foods. Police found a person suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound at the scene who was later pronounced dead.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The victim was later identified as 39-year-old Reginald D. Previtte of Topeka. Investigators believe the shooting is an isolated incident that occurred in the parking lot with no other injuries reported.

(Photo Courtesy/Drew Gill)

(Photo Courtesy/Drew Gill)

Man sentenced to 8 years for 2022 Shawnee County robbery case

If you have any information regarding this shooting, send an email to TPD at telltpd@topeka.org or call 785-368-9400. You can make anonymous tips to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers by calling 785-234-0007 or by clicking here.

For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) called on New York colleges to curb antisemitism following the recent assessment from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) that found none of the states 14 schools included in the report received an A grade.

The ADL published its Campus Antisemitic Report Card on Thursday, in which it examined 85 top liberals arts colleges and schools with a high population of Jewish students. The report assigned grades to schools  public and private  based on the Jewish life on campus, antisemitic incidents and actions taken by the administration to protect Jewish students and fight antisemitism.

Only two schools, Brandeis University in Massachusetts and Elon University in North Carolina, received A grades. The 14 schools based in New York, on average, got subpar grades.

Four each received Bs and Ds. Five schools got Cs. SUNY Rockland Community College and SUNY Purchase got an F.

Torres called on those institutions presidents to detail concrete actions on how they will get their institutions to the highest grades and called some schools evaluations alarming.

Despite boasting the largest Jewish population outside the State of Israel, NYS did not have a single school that earned an A, Torres said in a letter first shared with The Hill. Even more alarming, most schools received either a C, D, or F. Instead of leading in the fight against antisemitism, New York is lagging. The grades speak for themselves.

The grades were as follows:

Barnard College: D

CUNY Brooklyn: B

Columbia University: D

Cornell University: D

Hofstra University: B

Ithaca College: B

New York University: C

SUNY Albany: C

SUNY Binghamton: B

SUNY New Paltz: D

SUNY Purchase: F

SUNY Rockland Community College: F

Syracuse University: C

Queens College: C

The New York Democrat sent the letter Friday morning.

Schools have come under scrutiny in recent months for their handling of antisemitism following Hamass Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. While Torres said he supports free expression, he noted that some demonstrations have gone too far.

Although all Americans should enjoy the right to express their views freely, even if those views are disagreeable, we have seen demonstrations and disruptions that have gone too far, rising to the level of harassment and intimidation and creating a hostile environment for Jewish students, he wrote in the letter.

The ADL has warned about the rise of antisemitism since the Oct. 7 attack, with more than 2,000 incidents occurring between then and Dec. 7, according to the organizations 2023 report.

I am calling upon each college and university in New York to detail the concrete actions that it will take to earn an A on the ADLs Campus Antisemitism Report Card, Torres said. The post-October 7th status quo of higher education is fundamentally failing to protect Jewish students from a climate of campus antisemitism. Change is needed now more than ever. The longer we wait, the longer we fail.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Toxic algae alert: DOH Martin warns of western waters at Rim Canal and Port Mayaca Lock

The Florida Department of Health in Martin County issued a blue-green algae bloom health alert Friday after confirming toxic algae at three locations in the western part of the county.

The toxin microcystin was found in water samples the Florida Department of Environmental Protection took April 9, but in concentrations less than 8 parts per billion, which the Environmental Protection Agency says is harmful to people, pets and wildlife to touch, ingest or inhale:

Lake Okeechobee, S-135 Lock (J & S Fish Camp) downstream: 5.9 parts per billion

Rim Ditch (L-47 Canal) at S-135 Lock upstream (near J & S Fish Camp): 2.1 parts per billion.

St. Lucie Canal (C-44) at Port Mayaca Lock and Dam: 3.8 parts per billion

Algae is visible at the J & S Fish Camp (S-135) Lock in western Martin County April 9, 2024. Samples were confirmed to be positive for low levels of microcystin, a substance know to be toxic to animals and humans when above 8 parts per billion.

DEP reports on its Blue-green Algal Bloom Dashboard that all sites were sampled again April 11. Results from April 11 are still pending. The L-47 Canal and S-135 Lock sites were treated April 9 with some type of algicide. At press time, it was not clear which agency treated the algae and which product was used.

The algae is not expected to move locations much since discharges from Lake Okeechobee to the St. Lucie River have been stopped since March 31. Discharges are not expected to resume to Stuart anytime soon, according to the Army Corps of Engineers. Low rate "beneficial" discharges to the Caloosahatchee River will resume April 13.

DOH issued a health alert March 29 after finding toxic algae in these three locations:

St. Lucie Canal (C-44) at the 96th Street bridge: 17 parts per billion.

St. Lucie River at Four Rivers in Palm City: 11 parts per billion

St. Lucie River at the Palm City Bridge: 0.92 parts per billion

Sampling April 9 at all of these locations returned no microcystin present.

Lake Okeechobee water that's discharged east can carry the toxic algae into the C-44 Canal, St. Lucie River, Indian River Lagoon, St. Lucie Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean, as it did in 2018, closing beaches on the July 4 weekend.

The health department advises people to take these precautions during discharges:

Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible blue-green algae bloom.

Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or water that's discolored or smelly.

Keep pets away from the area. Water containing algae blooms are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present.

Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins.

Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish well.

Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

How to report algae blooms

DEP collects and analyzes algal bloom samples. Report algae sightings to DEP online or via its toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903.

Report fish kills to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 800-636-0511.

Report symptoms from exposure to an algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with water containing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). If you have other health questions or concerns, call DOH-Martin at 772-221-4000.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Toxic algae alert: DOH Martin warns of Rim Canal, Port Mayaca waters
Canadian soldiers stand guard on the rooftop of their embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  A transitional council tasked with choosing Haitis next prime minister and Cabinet was established Friday in a move supporters hope will help quell turmoil in the troubled Caribbean country where most of the capital remains under the grip of criminal gangs.

The formation of the council, announced in a decree published Friday in a Haitian government gazette, was expected to soon trigger the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, but a new provision said he would step down when a new premier is chosen. Henry did not immediately comment.

Those awarded a seat on the council are Petit Desalin, a party led by former senator and presidential candidate Jean-Charles Moise; EDE/RED, a party led by former Prime Minister Claude Joseph; the Montana Accord, a group of civil society leaders, political parties and others; Fanmi Lavalas, the party of former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide; the Jan. 30 Collective, which represents parties including that of former President Michel Martelly; and the private sector.

The two non-voting seats are represented by someone from Haitis civil society and its religious sector.

The establishment of the...politically inclusive council signals the possibility of a new beginning for Haiti, a Caribbean trade bloc known as Caricom, who helped form the council, said in a statement.

It said that the council will take the troubled country through elections to the restoration of the lapsed state institutions and constitutional government.

It is also clear that one of the first priorities of the newly installed Presidential Council will be to urgently address the security situation so that Haitians can go about their daily lives in a normal manner; safely access food, water and medical services; children can return to school; women can move around without fear of horrific abuses; and so that businesses can reopen, Caricom said.

Carl-Henry Joseph, a 42-year-old street vendor, said he heard that the council was established thanks to a small radio he balances atop loaves of bread he sells out of a wheelbarrow.

I'm not going to call it comforting news. There are still gunshots, he said. I don't know if the council will be able to solve Haiti's problems.

But Joseph was trying to remain optimistic: For now, that's all we have.

The published decree acknowledged what it called a multidimensional crisis that has worsened since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise. It said the crisis has led to a catastrophic humanitarian situation and that Haiti is experiencing unprecedented institutional dysfunction, which has led to a political impasse.

It also noted that Henry would present his resignation once a new prime minister is appointed.

The decree, which was signed by Henry and his Cabinet, noted that no one can be a member of the council if they have been sanctioned by the U.N., oppose the deployment of a foreign armed force or plan to run in the next general election, among other conditions.

While an election date hasnt been set, the decree stated that the president-elect must be sworn-in on Feb. 7, 2026 at the latest, and that the council will exercise presidential powers until then.

The council also will be responsible for helping set the agenda of a new Cabinet and will appoint members to form a provisional electoral council, which is needed before elections are held. It also will establish a national security council whose responsibilities have not been decided.

The decree does not set any deadlines for choosing a new prime minister or Cabinet, stating only that the council must quickly do so.

The council will be based at the National Palace, and its mandate is supposed to end when a new president is sworn-in, with no possibility of extension.

The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti posted on X that it would continue to closely follow the political process as it called for international support for Haitis National Police, saying it is essential to restore security and the rule of law.

We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the countrys institutions in their efforts to restore democratic institutions, Maria Isabel Salvador, the U.N. special envoy for Haiti, said in a statement.

The council's creation comes exactly a month and one day after Caribbean leaders announced plans to help form the nine-member panel, with seven members awarded voting powers.

Fridays development was cheered by those who believe the council could help steer Haiti in a new direction and help quell widespread gang violence that has paralyzed swaths of the capital of Port-au-Prince for more than a month.

More than 1,550 people have been killed across Haiti and more than 820 injured from January to March 22, according to the U.N.

In addition, gang violence has forced nearly 95,000 people to flee Port-au-Prince in the span of one month, with more than half of them having previously been left homeless as gunmen raze neighborhoods, the U.N.s International Organization for Migration said Friday.

While gangs have long operated throughout Haiti, gunmen organized large-scale attacks starting Feb. 29. They burned police stations, opened fire on the main international airport that remains closed and raided the countrys two biggest prisons, freeing more than 4,000 inmates.

The attacks were meant to prevent the return of Henry to Haiti. At the time, he was in Kenya pushing for the U.N.-backed deployment of a police force from the East African country. He remains locked out of Haiti.

While the violence has somewhat subsided, gangs are still launching attacks throughout Port-au-Prince, especially in the downtown area, where they have seized control of Haiti's biggest public hospital.

Joseph, the street vendor, said his family is in constant danger and that he hopes the council can deliver something for the country."

If they can bring stability so that everyone can get back to their homes and out of the shelters, and if the multinational force can come in and stabilize ... the country, that would be a step forward, he said. Today, Haiti is in the dark. We dont know if the sunlight will come through. Im hoping for the best."

___

Coto reported from San Juan, Puerto Rico.

___

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Transplant doctor accused of secretly denying new livers to patients who later died

A Texas transplant doctor has been accused of manipulating records for liver transplant candidates, causing a Houston medical centres liver and kidney transplant programmes to be halted.

Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center said they discovered a pattern of irregularities with donor acceptance criteria, finding problems with information entered into a database created for patients awaiting a liver transplant at the hospital.

The donor acceptance criteria include factors of age and weight of deceased donors whose livers were made available for transplant, they said in a statement to KHOU 11.

The medical centre, which declined to identify the doctor, said in a statement to the Houston Chronicle that inappropriate changes... effectively inactivated the candidates on the liver transplant waiting list.

Subsequently, these patients did not/were not able to receive organ donation offers while inactive, they added.

The liver transplant program was first halted by Memorial Hermann on 4 April, local reports say, followed closely by their kidney transplant program a few days later on 9 April, citing a shared leadership structure/

The irregularities were reported to be only limited to the liver transplant programmes.

The halting of the program has meant 38 patients on the list for the liver program and 346 patients on the kidney transplant list are now being contacted and helped by the hospital to try and find them other means of care, according to the AP.

The medical centre said in a statement that they have been actively working with all patients, families and caregivers from the liver and kidney transplant programs and that each patient is being individually contacted by a transplant care coordinator to review ongoing care options, including a seamless transition to another transplant program where necessary.

While Memorial Hermann is one of Houstons major hospitals, its liver transplant programme is relatively small compared to the rest of Texas, with only 29 liver transplants in 2023, according to federal data seen by the New York Times.

The doctor involved has been named by the New York Times as Dr J Steve Bynon Jr. The outlet reported that he allegedly manipulated a government database that made some of his own patients ineligible to receive new livers.

When contacted by the newspaper Dr Bynon declined to comment and referred questions to UTHealth Houston.

When asked if Dr Bynon is being investigated, a spokesperson for UTHealth Houston told The Independent that the Memorial Hermann program is under investigation.

In a statement, UTHealth added that Dr Bynon, along with other faculty and staff members are assisting with the inquiry into Memorial Hermanns liver transplant program and are committed to addressing and resolving any findings identified by this process.

UTHealth added that Dr Bynon is an exceptionally talented and caring physician and a pioneer in abdominal organ transplantation.

According to the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, Bynons survival rates and surgical outcomes are among the best in the nation, even while treating patients with higher-than-average acuity and disease complexity, UTHealth wrote of the doctor.

UTHealth Houston is proud of the many contributions Dr. Bynon and his team have made to our university, our academic and clinical transplant programs, and to the field of transplant medicine.

The Department of Health and Human Services also added in a statement on Tuesday that they acknowledge the severity of this allegation and are working across their department to address the matter.

We are working diligently to address this issue with the attention it deserves, they said in part, adding that they are working with a number of agencies and networks to investigate.

The Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center added in their statement that their investigation is ongoing and they are cooperating with regulatory authorities.

We are working with University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston to make the necessary changes that will allow for the quick reactivation of the kidney transplant program under a different physician leadership structure, Memorial Hermann said.

All program transplant physicians are employed by the University of Health Science Center at Houston and contracted to Memorial Hermann to provide physician services.

The Independent has contacted the Dr Bynon for comment.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  It is one of Tennessees fastest-growing killers. Fentanyl deaths have nearly quadrupled in the Volunteer State over the last five years.

A Murfreesboro womans son is one of the victims. In a sit-down interview with News 2, she explained how he took two fentanyl-laced pills, which he thought were pain relievers, and how she is taking her pain and turning it into a commitment to change.

THE DAY SHE FOUND HIM

With every passing motion, Angela James is constantly revealing the reason why she is so passionate.

He was a handful, always has been, until he wasnt anymore, James described. He had this infectious laugh. Once he left, the first thing people talk about is that big smile and that laugh he had.

Angela James remembers the day she came home and found her son, Tre dead after taking two pills he didnt know contained fentanyl.

James has always been open about her son and doesnt ever mind sharing how he lived, or how he died.

I couldnt move. I was stuck, she remembered. I was stuck in my bedroom, I couldnt do nothing, but it was like no I had to do something to bring awareness to what took my baby away from me as well as to let people know who the real person was.

It robs your child of everything: Mother shares her late sons struggle with substance abuse disease

It was Aug. 20, 2019, when James arrived home and called out for her son. At the time, Tre was staying with his mom for a family event. When he didnt respond, James went upstairs and found him.

In one of my bedrooms deceased, at the time we did not know that it was acute fentanyl toxicity. Only two pills in his system, took my baby from me forever, James said, as she tried to hold back tears. You have people who say Okay, its been four years. Its time to move on, but you cant tell me how to grieve my child. Its easy for you to say if you have not lost a child.

TRES KIDS

Soon after his death, James wanted to find a way to honor her sons life, while also making a difference in the community. She created the foundation Tres Kids.

The only thing he really wanted to have in life, was to have children, but he was not able to have children before he left me, and so when I was thinking, well lets start this foundation to do the things like he did, she explained.

It stole her from us: Middle Tennessee womans dreams cut short by fatal fentanyl overdose

The nonprofit was created as a way to educate others about the dangers of fentanyl, help children in the community, and prevent future tragedies from happening.

While the nonprofit is up and running, James said it often comes with its challenges. I dont want to do it halfway, I was to give it my all and once I get it up and going, no stop without me breaking down sometimes just the mention of his name, just to see his pictures sometimes, I cannot look at a real picture of him today or for long without breaking. I cant even go to his grave, she said.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

James is asking anyone interested in the foundation to reach out to her through Facebook.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) has been a volatile and divisive stock ever since its public debut. The provider of quantum computing services went public by merging with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) on Oct. 1, 2021, and its stock started trading at $10.60 before nearly tripling to a record high of $31 on Nov. 17, 2021.

But today, IonQ's stock trades at about $8. It lost its luster as it missed its own pre-merger estimates, its co-founder and chief scientist Chris Monroe stepped down, and rising interest rates popped its bubbly valuations. Could this out-of-favor tech stock bounce back and mint some new millionaires over the next decade?

Image source: Getty Images.

What does IonQ do?

Traditional computers process data as binary "bits" of zeros and ones, while quantum computers can process zeros and ones simultaneously as "qubits." That approach makes quantum computers much faster than traditional computers, but they're also larger, pricier, and more prone to making mistakes while processing large amounts of data.

IonQ aims to address those issues with its "trapped ion" technology, which shrinks the average width of a qubit processing unit (QPU) system from a few feet to a few inches. It believes that miniaturization process will make it easier to scale quantum computing systems, reduce their costs, and improve their accuracy.

As IonQ develops that miniaturization technology, it's providing its own quantum computer power as a cloud-based service to the U.S. military and large enterprise customers. It gauges its total quantum computing power in algorithm qubits (AQ), and it hit AQ 29 in 2023, AQ 36 this January, and it plans to reach AQ 64 by 2025.

At AQ 64, IonQ claims its platform would be "100,000 times larger than the limit of a classical supercomputer simulation." It also reiterated its goals of AQ 256 in 2026, AQ 384 in 2027, and AQ 1,024 in 2028 in its latest investor presentation.

Why did IonQ disappoint the bulls?

That growth trajectory sounds incredible, but IonQ missed its own revenue forecasts. Prior to going public, IonQ claimed its revenue would reach $5 million in 2021, $15 million in 2022, and $34 million in 2023.

But in reality, IonQ's revenue only reached $2 million in 2021, $11 million in 2022, and $22 million in 2023. It expects to generate $37 million to $41 million in revenue in 2024.

In 2022, the prolific short-seller Scorpion Capital accused IonQ of exaggerating its miniaturization capabilities and discretely using Honeywell's quantum computers to handle its cloud-based processing services. A few months later, Chris Monroe -- who had developed the trapped ion technology IonQ's entire business strategy was built upon -- abruptly resigned. Those setbacks drove some of IonQ's investors to file a class action lawsuit against the company. IonQ won the case last October, but it still faces tough questions about its future growth.

Story continues

IonQ is still deeply unprofitable, and its stock looks expensive at 45 times this year's sales. But looking further ahead, analysts expect its revenue to grow at a stunning compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 91% from 2023 to 2026.

Could IonQ be a millionaire-maker stock?

If IonQ matches those expectations, it could generate $153 million in revenue by 2026. Assuming it still trades at 45 times forward sales, its stock could more than quadruple and propel its market cap to $6.9 billion by the beginning of 2026.

If it continues to grow at a CAGR of 30% from 2026 to 2034, it could generate $1.1 billion in revenue by the final year. If it's trading at a more reasonable 20 times sales by then, it would be worth $22 billion -- which would represent a nearly 1,200% gain from its current price. That gain could turn a $77,000 investment into $1 million in 10 years.

That growth trajectory is feasible -- since Acumen Research and Consulting expects the quantum computing market to grow at a CAGR of 36% from 2023 to 2032 -- but IonQ needs to prove its business model is sustainable over the next few years. It also needs to withstand intense competition from tech giants like IBM and Alphabet's Google in the evolving quantum computing market.

IonQ has a narrow but viable path toward generating millionaire-making gains, but it's still a highly speculative stock. Investors should realize its stock could be easily cut in half in this unpredictable market before it heads much higher.

Should you invest $1,000 in IonQ right now?

Before you buy stock in IonQ, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and IonQ wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.

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Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Leo Sun has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet. The Motley Fool recommends International Business Machines. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Could IonQ Stock Help You Become a Millionaire? was originally published by The Motley Fool
Trooper who assaulted 2 teens, including one who pranked him, pleads guilty to felonies

A still from a doorbell camera, provided by lawyers, of Delaware State Police trooper Dempsey Walters from Aug. 21, 2023. Walters was charged with attacking and injuring two teenagers that evening.

A Delaware State Police trooper who assaulted two teens, a 15- and 17-year-old, pleaded guilty on Friday to two felonies and four misdemeanors, including deprivation of civil rights, according to the Delaware Department of Justice.

It's the department's first use of the state's Deprivation of Civil Rights statute passed in 2022.

Dempsey Walters was initially indicted in September on charges of punching a handcuffed 15-year-old so hard it caused a concussion and a fractured eye socket. His trial was scheduled to start on July 22.

Though Delaware State Police previously said the agency intends to terminate Walters, spokesperson Sgt. India Sturgis said on Friday that he remains suspended without pay or benefits. He's been suspended since the late-August assault.

A lawyer for the victims told Delaware Online/The News Journal that the families are grateful the Attorney General's Office was able to convict Walters.

"The question is how the Delaware State Police could have a chain of command breakdown, which allowed this trooper to have the law enforcement apparatus run so amok, is still a mystery," said Sam Davis, one of the lawyers representing the teens and their families. "Also we do not believe that all of the participants in this the assault have been charged.

"Having said that, the families look forward to the court meting out the appropriate punishment which will put one phase of this saga behind them."

What happened?

According to law enforcement and court records, Walters' encounter with the 17-year-old occurred several days before the assault.

On Aug. 17, Walters was off-duty and returning to his home in Elsmeres Lancaster Village when he made contact with the 17-year-old. A "verbal altercation" ensued, the Delaware Department of Justice said, and Walters contacted Elsmere police.

Two officers took the teen to his home on Taft Avenue, where they turned him over to his mother. He was not charged with anything.

BACKGROUND Lawyers describe state's account of Delaware trooper assaulting 2 teens as 'understated'

The next day, Walters looked up the teen on DELJIS, a controlled-access law enforcement database. Those with access to DELJIS are not allowed to use it for non-work-related matters.

Four days after this interaction between Walters and the 17-year-old, a 15-year-old boy and others were playing "ding-dong ditch" in Elsmere. The 17-year-old was not involved.

Security video from Walters' home shows the 15-year-old boy kicking the trooper's door about 8:30 p.m., then running away. According to the Delaware Department of Justice, after reviewing the security video, the trooper's girlfriend called Walters at work and told him what had happened. Walters then drove home.

On the way, court records said Walters again looked up the 17-year-old's address and called Delaware Police State and other police agencies for assistance. Police said the call came in as an attempted home invasion, drawing out K-9 units and the state police helicopter.

The teens' attorneys estimate there were as many as 30 officers, some with long guns, searching the area.

After being told the group ran toward Taft Avenue, Walters met with two Newport officers and went to the home of the 17-year-old boy with whom he had had a verbal altercation four days earlier. At gunpoint, Walters and another officer ordered the 17-year-old and a friend out of the Lancaster Village home.

"Walters forcibly pulled (the teen) out of the doorway and forced him onto the ground, causing injuries," the state Justice Department said.

As the 17-year-old and his friend were being handcuffed, court documents say, Walters received a call telling him the 15-year-old prankster had been detained. Walters left the scene and went to where the young teen was being held by other state police troopers at Taft Avenue and DuPont Street.

MORE: Delaware state trooper indicted amid investigation into assault of teen pranking his home

The 17-year-old, who had nothing to do with the prank, was detained for several hours by other officers before being released to his mother, who was told this had been a "misunderstanding."

When Walters arrived, the 15-year-old was face-down on the ground as another trooper was trying to handcuff the teen, court documents say. Walters then hit the 15-year-old in the back of the neck and head with his knee.

With the 15-year-olds hands cuffed behind him, another trooper took the boy to a state police SUV and placed him in the rear passenger seat. Thats when Walters turned off his bodycam, walked to the police vehicle and hit the boys face twice.

Because the body camera stays on for 30 seconds after being turned off, police said Walters was captured striking the restrained teen.

The 15-year-old, who had a concussion and fractured eye socket that required 11 screws and a mesh to repair, remained unattended in the police SUV for about 30 minutes, said Davis, the boy's attorney.

Davis said both teens continue to suffer physical and psychological impacts as a result of the assaults.

"I can tell you that they still don't feel safe in their neighborhoods," he said. "They're both still under medical and psychological care."

But he believes they will feel better once Walters is sentenced.

It is over?

New Castle County Councilman Jea P. Street said he is glad to hear there was a guilty plea in this matter and that the Department of Justice is pursuing prison time for Walters.

Street, a former 3rd vice president and life member of the state NAACP, has been advocating for federal intervention that would review Delaware police and their use of force. He also believes this matter deserves a deeper review of what occurred, especially as a single officer was able to draw police from different agencies to search for the pranksters, including K-9 units and the state police helicopter.

Im assuming that the investigation is ongoing, he said. It appeared to me to be a lot of impropriety from the inception.

Street wants to know how Walters was able to get the law enforcement response he got. He also wants to know why officers who were at the scene did not say anything.

It took the victims to come forward as opposed to anybody internally before the investigation started, he said. So I hope that the investigation is going on, is continuing, and that other action is taken.

State police told Delaware Online/The News Journal they continue to investigate the matter.

"While the plea marks a significant development, it does not signify the conclusion of our investigation," Sturgis said. "We want to assure the public that we are diligently continuing our administrative investigation."

What attorneys for victims have found

During a press conference last year, the victims lawyers, referred to the states account of what occurred on Aug. 21 as an understatement.

"Everything you heard about how gut-wrenching and devastating this ... occurrence was to our clients is understated," Davis said at a press conference he held in Wilmington in September.

During this press conference, Davis said that after the teen was punched in the back of a police SUV, the teen was driven to a partially secluded parking lot where Walters and about 10 other officers gathered. Two friends of the 15-year-old boy were also in police custody.

The teen, who had a concussion and fractured eye socket, remained unattended in the police SUV for about 30 minutes as the officers gathered in the parking lot.

It wasnt until a father of one of the friends approached officers and told them to release his son that the officers left the lot.

"They kept them there for half an hour while they attempted, we believe, to get their story straight," Davis said at his press conference. "To do something that would give them a reasonable explanation for why they treated him this way."

This is something that had not been disclosed at a joint press conference held last year by Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings and Delaware State Police Col. Melissa Zebley.

Other things Davis and the teens other attorney said the state did not mention or address last year include:

In about 18 minutes Walters was able to authorize "a small army of law enforcement," which included K-9 units, a helicopter and officers from different police agencies, some of whom carried long guns.

Not all the officers involved in the search had their body cameras on.

When the 17-year-old was removed from the house, he was taken out "so violently" that his big toenail was torn away.

Officers threatened to sic dogs on the 15-year-old and his friends as they were getting on the ground or were already on the ground.

Handcuffs on the 15-year-old and his friends were tightened in order to keep them from resisting.

There was no immediate first aid provided to the 15-year-old after his eye socket was fractured. It took nearly 50 minutes before the boy got medical attention.

Walters made sure the 15-year-old was handcuffed when placed inside an ambulance.

Two troopers followed the ambulance to Nemours Children's Hospital and made sure the teen was handcuffed to a gurney when taken to the hospital's emergency room.

Two troopers guarded the emergency room.

Police repeatedly told the 15-year-old that he'd not been punched.

Other officers did not make an effort to intervene.

When the 15-year-old's mother was called, she was told her son had a minor eye injury.

Recommended sentence

Walters was suspended after state police "uncovered Walters' misconduct" and reported it to the Justice Department's Division of Civil Rights and Public Trust.

At a September news conference, Attorney General Jennings called Walters' actions "a violent rampage," saying he "chose to extract his own form of personal justice."

Zebley, meanwhile, said state police would take "every possible step to prevent such things from happening in the future."

On Friday, she said in an emailed statement that it was "disheartening that the actions of one can tarnish the noble endeavors of many."

"However, I firmly believe that this isolated incident will not overshadow the unwavering dedication of our troopers," Zebley said.

Walters pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and deprivation of civil rights, both felonies, as well as two counts of third-degree assault and two counts of official misconduct.

The Department of Justice will recommend an 18-month prison sentence as part of the plea deal.

"Hopefully this conviction and the punishment that Walters is given will be a deterrent to other law enforcement who can avoid getting caught up in a response which so disproportionate to the underlying event and violated so many of our clients' rights," Davis said. "You understand that the physical injury, the rampage was only part of it and then there was the amount of time that both these young men, who were both injured, were kept from getting first aid.

"This is all going to come out to civil suits."

Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at hedelman@delawareonline.com. For more reporting, follow them on X at @h_edelman.

Got a story tip or idea? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com. For all things breaking news, follow her on X at @izzihughes_

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Trooper who assaulted teens pleads guilty to civil rights deprivation
Beijing has denied all allegations of meddling in Canadian affairs and said Trudeau had slandered China during the inquiry hearing.

Beijing has denied all allegations of meddling in Canadian affairs and said Trudeau had slandered China during the inquiry hearing. Photograph: Reuters

Canadas spy agency is under pressure after Justin Trudeau and his closest advisers say they were never made aware of a report that Beijing clandestinely and deceptively interfered in both the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

Canada is in the midst of a contentious public inquiry examining and assessing foreign interference by China, Russia, and other foreign states and non-state actors, and this week the prime minister, Justin Trudeau, testified under oath about the steps his government took to respond to the threat of meddling. In his appearance, which lasted nearly four hours, Trudeau insisted that despite the efforts from hostile states, previous federal elections held in their integrity.

[The elections] were decided by Canadians, Trudeau said.

But he cast doubt on the reliability of information collected by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), which has underpinned media reporting about Beijings alleged meddling efforts. Trudeau also said that information in a 2023 briefing note  which said that Chinas interference efforts were pragmatic in nature and focused primarily in supporting those with a Beijing stance or were neutral on issues of interest to the Chinese government  was never relayed to him or his staff.

Related: China meddled in past two Canada elections, says Justin Trudeau

His remarks contrasted with testimony from the CSIS director, David Vigneault, who told the commission that the warnings in the agencys reports  including advice that the government take decisive action and impose consequences on perpetrators  were passed on to the prime ministers inner circle.

The CSIS also warned that foreign interference in Canada will persist until it is viewed as an existential threat to the countrys democracy and governments respond forcefully.

But neither key staffers, nor the prime minister himself, recalled those warnings.

Those discrepancies prompted the head of the CSIS to be recalled to testify once again before the commission.

On Friday, Vigneault told commission lawyers that while he might not have mentioned certain points on briefing notes, he conveyed those warnings to the government on other occasions, including the idea that hostile nations view election meddling as a low risk, high reward undertaking.

Vigneault added that his agencys method for briefing officials was not just one method and one person to ensure key figures were brought up to speed.

Speaking to reporters after his testimony, the prime minister deepened the rift between his government and the spy agency over the accuracy of CSIS reports by suggesting no government, no leader should simply be a passive receiver of information and intelligence.

We have a role to play in asking questions, on thinking critically  encouraging further work on questioning sources and pulling out contradictions, he said. That actually is part and parcel of the work that we all need to do to make sure that everything is done to keep Canadians safe.

Among the issues was reports that the CSIS had warned the Liberal party about possible Chinese interference in the nomination of Han Dong in Toronto.

I didnt feel there was sufficient or sufficiently credible information that would justify this very significant step as to remove a candidate, Trudeau said.

The prime minister himself has come under fire from political opponents after telling the commission he didnt read briefing notes, instead preferring to receive key information in person or over a secure line from his national security adviser or top intelligence officials, including Vigneault.

When there is actually a risk of manipulation by hostile and malicious actors like, say, a communist regime in Beijing, he cant even take the responsibility of reading his briefing notes, said the Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre.

Beijing has previously denied all allegations of meddling in Canadian affairs and a spokesperson for the embassy said Trudeau had slandered China during the inquiry hearing.

The commission, overseen by Quebec appeals court judge Marie-Josee Hogue, will complete an initial report by 3 May and deliver its final report by the end of 2024.
Evan Corcoran, an attorney for Donald Trump who became a critical witness in the classified documents case against the former president, no longer represents him, CNN has learned.

According to multiple sources familiar with the matter, Corcoran left Trumps legal team in recent months, a notable departure as the criminal case remains in limbo in south Florida.

Corcorans quiet exit from Trumps orbit could pose a significant issue for the former president, with the potential for prosecutors to call him as a key witness if the case goes to trial. He also was one of the last attorneys on Trumps defense team to have handled his federal investigations from the beginning, as his legal peril skyrocketed.

Corcoran was brought on to help Trump fend off charges in the classified documents investigation, but instead turned into a central witness after Trump allegedly misled him about the whereabouts of the documents at his Mar-a-Lago club and encouraged him to lie to the Justice Department and withhold those documents.

One year ago, Corcoran was required to appear before a grand jury investigating the case after a district judge ruled he could not use attorney-client privilege to shield notes and memos from investigators about his interactions with Trump, saying that prosecutors met the threshold for the crime-fraud exception for him. The voice memos turned into notes provided a roadmap for prosecutors when they indicted Trump. Corcoran is referred to as Trump Attorney 1 in that indictment.

If the case goes to trial, Corcoran will likely be a key witness for the prosecution. The case has been mired in delay and unresolved logistical questions for months now.

Corcoran ultimately recused himself from representing Trump in the classified documents case but continued to represent him in other investigations. He personally accompanied the former president when he was arraigned in Washington last August on federal charges related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

Corcoran declined to comment to CNN.

Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung told CNN in a statement, Mr. Corcoran remains on the legal team and is continuing to help fighting the Biden Trial witch-hunts, adding that any assertion otherwise is fake news peddled by uninformed sources and untruthful reporting that seeks to leak disinformation and misinformation.

Corcorans departure from the team underscores how those who could ultimately take either of those cases to trial are relatively new to Trumps legal team. Two other attorneys who were working on those two probes, Jim Trusty and John Rowley, departed last summer. The result is a loss of institutional knowledge from attorneys who were in the throes of the investigations  dealing with subpoenas and communicating with Justice Department lawyers  before they turned into historic indictments.

But it is Corcorans role in the classified documents probe that could pose the biggest problem for Trump. According to special counsel Jack Smith, Corcorans memos detailed his interactions with Trump and reveal how Corcorans client was scheming to undermine a subpoena from prosecutors. At one point, after Corcoran had personally searched for remaining documents at Mar-a-Lago, Trump discussed with the attorney what to do with 38 documents marked as classified that Corcoran had found and placed in a Redweld folder.

Did you find anything?  Is it bad? Good? Trump allegedly said, according to the indictment.

The two discussed whether the attorney should bring the documents to his hotel room to keep them safe. Trump then reportedly made a plucking motion during the conversation, which the Corcoran memorialized as meaning, OK, why dont you take them with you to your hotel room and if theres anything really bad in there, like, you know, pluck it out.

Brian Butler, a former Mar-a-Lago worker referenced as Trump Employee Number 5 in the classified documents indictment of Trump, also placed Corcoran at a key moment leading up to the former presidents indictment. During an exclusive interview with CNN, Butler recalled helping  unknowingly  to move boxes containing classified information to the airport at the same time Trump was greeting federal investigators at his property in June 2022.

I remember seeing this taller guy, Butler said, who I now know to be Evan Corcoran. And I saw a bunch of other people, in the living room. I had no clue. Im just seeing all these people. I have no clue what theyre there for.

Butler later realized it was a meeting Corcoran and another attorney had with investigators from the FBI. Two months later, the FBI descended upon the property with a search warrant in hand.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Former President Trump threw his support behind Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Friday as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.)  one of Trumps closest allies on Capitol Hill  threatens to force a vote on ousting the House leader.

Asked during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago if he supports Greenes motion to vacate, Trump  while standing beside Johnson  said the Speaker is doing a very good job.

Were getting along very well with the Speaker and I get along very well with Marjorie. We have a Speaker who was voted in and it was a complicated process its not an easy situation for any Speaker, Trump said.

I think hes doing a very good job, hes doing about as good as youre going to do and Im sure that Marjorie understands that, he continued. Shes a very good friend of mine and I know she has a lot of respect for the Speaker.

Earlier in the joint appearance, Trump said Johnson is doing a really good job under very tough circumstances.

I stand with the Speaker, weve had a very good relationship, he added later.

The vote of confidence comes after Greene, an ardent Trump supporter, filed a motion to vacate  the same tool used to oust former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)  against Johnson, arguing that he is no longer fit to serve the House GOP conference.

Greene, however, has not yet said when she plans to force a vote on her resolution, leaving Johnson  and the rest of the House  waiting as the chamber barrels through a number of tough legislative undertakings.

Johnson appeared alongside Trump for a press conference in Palm Beach, Fla., where the GOP leaders unveiled a bill that would ban non-U.S. citizens from voting, which is already illegal.

But politically, the joint appearance gave Johnson an opportunity to show solidarity with the former president as he finds himself at odds with hard-line conservatives in the Capitol. Members of the right-flank have become frustrated with the Speakers propensity to pass bills with help from Democrats  spending measures, for example  increasing chatter about ousting the GOP leader.

Trumps kind words for Johnson will likely frustrate Greene, who has sharply criticized the Speaker and, with that, been dangling her motion to vacate over the House leaders head.

Greene did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trumps backing of Johnson, but the congresswoman on Thursday brushed off the joint appearance of her close ally and current rival.

President Trump meets with people all the time, she said. Im not involved in his meetings, and its natural for our top presidential candidate to meet with our Republican Speaker.

But Trumps endorsement of Johnson could dampen her ouster effort. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, told reporters Thursday that the former president backing the Speaker could help him keep hold of the gavel.

If Trump came out and gave him his full support, yes, it would help, Norman said.

Trumps comments also came after the former president tried to undercut the Speaker on reauthorizing the U.S.s warrantless surveillance powers and sending additional aid to Ukraine, two matters that emerged as heavy legislative lifts in the narrowly divided House.

Earlier this week, hours before the lower chamber was set to hold a procedural vote on reauthorizing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), Trump urged his followers on Truth Social to KILL FISA.

Nineteen Republicans followed suit, tanking the procedural vote and dealing an embarrassing blow to Johnson.

On Ukraine, Trump has frequently expressed his opposition to sending additional aid to Kyiv, even as Johnson has vowed to help the embattled U.S. ally. Last month, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban told state television after meeting with Trump that the former president will not give a penny into the Ukraine-Russia war.

A growing sector of the House GOP conference has expressed opposition to sending additional aid to Ukraine.

Johnson and Trump, however, have had consensus on the idea of sending assistance to Ukraine as a loan. The former president first floated the idea, which Johnson embraced. He mentioned the concept again on Friday.

Were looking at it right now, Trump said when asked if he would support a Ukraine aid bill should Johnson move forward with one. Theyre talking about it and were thinking about making it in the form of a loan instead of just a gift.

Updated April 12 at 6:34 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former President Trump described the upcoming jury selection in his first criminal trial as largely luck on Friday.

Trump was asked about his hush money trial that begins on Monday in New York at a press conference alongside Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) at Mar-a-Lago.

Jury selection is largely luck, the former president said. It depends who you get. Its very unfair that Im having a trial there.

The multi-step jury selection process is set to begin Monday morning, with hundreds of prospective jurors being summoned to the courthouse. They will be whittled down to a list of 12 jurors and six alternates. Each side can attempt to challenge jurors for cause, and theyll also have a limited number of strikes they can use without providing a reason.

The former president on Friday again suggested he may testify at the trial once it gets underway, as he has previously said.

Yeah I would testify, absolutely, Trump said at Mar-a-Lago. Its a scam. Its a scam, thats not a trial.

Jurors are not allowed to hold it against Trump if he chooses not to testify.

Trumps legal team has pulled out all the stops for an eleventh-hour delay of the upcoming trial, but separate judges have rejected four of the former presidents delay attempts just this week.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) has accused Trump of falsifying business records when he reimbursed his then-fixer, Michael Cohen, for a 2016 hush payment to porn actress Stormy Daniels to stay quiet about an alleged affair with Trump. Trump, who denies the affair, pleaded not guilty.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
WASHINGTON  House Speaker Mike Johnson has had a brutal week trying to control the rowdy band of Republicans that he leads. And that's before he even got to Friday, when he'll be hanging out with the GOP's de facto leader in Donald Trump.

Johnsons visit to the former president's Mar-a-Lago residence and 2024 White House campaign headquarters comes at a critical moment for the Louisiana Republican as he faces a threat to forcibly remove him from his post by the longtime Trump ally and conservative rabble-rouser Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga.

Trump has already proven to be highly influential in House affairs. The former president emboldened conservative opposition to Johnsons plan to reauthorize a controversial spying law on Wednesday, plunging the House into chaos after those far-right members used procedural tactics to freeze the lower chamber to protest the speakers agenda.

Trumps never really been one thats made it easy to govern. He has a tendency to offer opinions before he fully researched the issue, a House Republican said of Trumps hold on House Republicans, on the condition of anonymity to speak candidly with USA TODAY.

The spy law debacle underscores how Trumps influence could turn the tides for  or against  Johnson as he tries to fend off Greenes ouster threat and other conservative backlash. While the speaker already keeps in regular touch with the president, the public event Friday afternoon will highlight their relationship at a particularly fraught time for Johnson.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson waits following Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressing Congress in Washington.

Kiss the ring

Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, a Trump ally and the former presidents White House physician, told USA TODAY the meeting and following event is absolutely important for Johnson as he attempts to navigate the speakership.

Jackson rebuked Greenes threat to oust the speaker as the last thing we need right now. The former president respects him and he likes him. Trumps support for Johnson could certainly be helpful for his survival.

A consultant for a GOP lawmaker and other Republicans put Johnsons visit and the event with their party's presumptive presidential nominee more bluntly.

The last time a Republican House Speaker visited Mar-a-Lago, it was to capitulate and kiss the ring. I suspect Speaker Johnson will do the same thing knowing he's one Trump tweet away from losing his speakership, the consultant said, referring to then-House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthys visit to South Florida that came less than a month after the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot and when Trump's political power appeared to be at an all-time low point.

Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, arrives to the House Republican conference meeting in the U.S. Capitol Building on March 20, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Rep. Greg Steube, R-Fla., a conservative who joined 18 other rebels earlier this week to freeze the House in protest of the GOPs spy law plan, is cold towards removing Johnson, saying he doesn't believe it is a "prosperous avenue to be going down."

But Steube noted that Johnson still does not have as strong of a relationship with Trump compared to McCarthy, who went on to become House speaker in January 2023 but then lost the gavel last October in a conservative revolt similar to the one facing his successor.

Steube added that it was "important for the speaker to have a relationship with the leader of our party and be in more constant communication with him." Trump's support, he added, could change conservatives' attitude towards Johnson "if he starts governing differently."

Greenes threat could soon materialize on the House floor. Johnson is under heavy pressure from both sides of the aisle to put Ukraine aid on the floor and is likely to move on the issue next week. The Georgia Republican has signaled she will call up a vote to oust Johnson if he attempts to push through the Ukraine funding.

Trump intervening to support Johnson would be tremendous: House Republican

Some Republicans think it would be best for Trump to get involved immediately and tell Greene to drop her bid. There are concerns among some GOP lawmakers that another leadership crisis would not only endanger their chances of retaining control of the House, but also reflect poorly on Trumps reelection campaign.

I dont think it would be helpful to go through another motion to vacate whatsoever, another House Republican said on the condition of anonymity to speak candidly about the former president. I think it would be tremendous for President Trump to get involved, and tell Greene to call off her plans to oust Johnson.

Greene met with Johnson for over an hour in his office on Wednesday. Leaving the meeting, when asked if she has spoken with the former president and if he supports her efforts, she declined to answer and said she doesnt talk about the conversations I have with the president.

I dont speak for the president. He makes all of his views and opinions known" publicly, she added.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., speaks to reporters in Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol Building on April 10, 2024 in Washington, DC.

While Trump could simply stay out of the House speaker fight, theres also worry among Republicans that his silence could be misinterpreted by conservatives.

If Trump stays quiet, a senior House GOP aide said on the condition of anonymity, it would be worse for the speaker and could put Johnson in a tighter spot as his conservative antagonists might not see an issue with ousting him.

Not only will the Mar-a-Lago event on Friday be crucial to Johnsons speakership, the hope is to also rally House Republicans together to portray unity after months of intra-party bickering and infighting.

But that unity isn't a given for some hardliners. Asked whether there needs to be a united front in the GOP, Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus said: Of course there needs to be a united front and we all agree on that. The question is: united on what?

Contributing: Zac Anderson

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mike Johnson, under conservative fire, to take stage with Donald Trump
Instead of terminating the Affordable Care Act, former President Donald Trump is now promising to make it much better, stronger and far less expensive if he wins the presidential election in November.

Im not running to terminate the ACA as crooked Joe Biden says all over the place, Trump said in a video posted to Truth Social on Thursday, echoing a message he posted last month. Were going to make the ACA much better than it is right now and much less expensive for you.

The future of Obamacare has once again become a main theme of the presidential campaign. President Joe Biden has jumped on Trumps comments, saying the former president wants to rip away health care coverage from millions of Americans and touting his own actions to strengthen the landmark health reform law.

Trump had four years to replace  or at least remake  the Affordable Care Act, even though a Republican-led Congress failed to repeal it. But while his administration made quite a few changes, most amounted to tinkering around the edges and not striking at the core of the law.

Trump faced two major hurdles. His powers were limited both by Congress and by the increasing popularity of many Obamacare provisions, including those that protect people with preexisting conditions and let children stay on their parents plans until age 26.

Theres only so much an administration can do, said Edmund Haislmaier, senior research fellow at the Heritage Foundations Center for Health and Welfare Policy, who served on the Trump transition team after he was elected in 2016. For big changes, you have to go through Congress.

Still, Trumps actions did have a range of impacts. Sign-ups fell from nearly 12.7 million for 2016 coverage to 11.4 million for 2020 policies, before rising to 12 million for 2021 coverage in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

But the Obamacare exchanges also stabilized during his term: Insurers returned to the market after fleeing in the early years, and the average premium for the benchmark plan declined for three years in a row. The share of counties with only one participating insurer fell from 50% in 2018 to 9% in 2021.

Trumps many moves

The Trump administration quickly took steps to weaken Obamacare and unleashed uncertainty into the marketplaces. It cut the open enrollment period in half to six weeks, slashed the advertising budget by 90% and severely cut funding for enrollment assistance. At the same time, Trump increased the visibility of insurance agents, who can also sell non-Obamacare plans.

Also in 2017, Trump eliminated federal payments that help reduce deductibles and out-of-pocket charges for low-income participants, prompting insurers to raise premiums to cover the loss of these cost-sharing subsidies that they still had to offer. The move ended up increasing federal premium subsidies, leaving taxpayers on the hook while lowering the monthly cost for many enrollees.

Plus, Trump signed an executive order that year making it easier for Americans to access alternative policies that have lower premiums than Affordable Care Act plans  but in exchange for fewer protections and benefits.

They include short-term plans. Trump officials lengthened their duration from three months to just under one year. These plans are typically cheaper but can also turn down people with preexisting conditions or charge them higher premiums.

The administration also tried to make it easier for small businesses or some self-employed people to band together to buy so-called association health plans, though this rule was put on hold, first while it worked its way through the courts and then by the Biden administration, which has proposed rescinding it.

Trump also signed a bill effectively eliminating the individual mandate, which required most Americans to have health insurance or face a penalty. And his administration supported a major court challenge to the Affordable Care Acts constitutionality, leaving it to a coalition of Democratic attorneys general to step in to defend it. The Supreme Court ultimately dismissed the challenge, keeping the law in place.

In addition, under Trumps watch, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services allowed states to require certain Medicaid enrollees to work in order to continue their coverage. Only Arkansas actually implemented the mandate before being halted by the courts  though not before more than 18,000 residents lost their Medicaid benefits.

And Trump also tightened up income verification, limited the ability of people to sign up during special enrollment and required consumers to pay any back premiums they owed before enrolling again, among other rule changes. Haislmaier praised these moves as stabilizing the marketplaces, but other experts criticized them as undermining the law.

Trump is now making many promises to improve the Affordable Care Act, but once again he has not said much about how he would actually accomplish that goal. And it could prove even harder since the Biden administration has reversed many of his actions and the law has become even more popular since Trump left the White House. A record 45 million people now have coverage through the Obamacare exchanges or Medicaid expansion, two central components of the law, according to the Biden administration.

Weve been down this road before, said John Holahan, an institute fellow in the Health Policy Center at the Urban Institute. It never got anywhere.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson appeared together Friday at the former president's Florida estate, a show of unity as the embattled Johnson faces a threat to his leadership.

"He's doing a really good job under very tough circumstances and I appreciate that he came to Mar-a-Lago," Trump said of Johnson.

The focus of their joint appearance was on what they call "election integrity" -- a chief priority for Trump, who continues to lie about the results of the 2020 presidential race. Trump's attention on the issue comes in an election year when there is expected to be another tight matchup against President Joe Biden.

Johnson, who was one of the 147 GOP lawmakers who voted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, said Friday congressional Republicans will introduce legislation to require people who register to vote in a federal election to prove that they are an American citizen.

MORE: Fact checking Trump's claims about 'election integrity'

As he outlined the proposal, Johnson made several false claims about noncitizens voting in elections -- repeating assertions Trump has made in recent days.

Both leaders also used the opportunity to continue to slam President Joe Biden and Democrats over their handling of the southern border, with Johnson falsely stating that they wanted to turn migrants crossing the border illegally into voters, claiming that they could sway the November presidential election.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks as Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, listens during a news conference, April 12, 2024, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee/AP)

MORE: No, migrants are not driving a surge in violent crime as Trump claims

Trump claimed he would not, if elected, sign a national abortion ban, something Johnson supports.

Also looming large over the appearance were other recent areas of disagreement between Trump and Johnson on additional Ukraine aid and the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

Trump encouraged House GOP hard-liners this week to block reauthorizing FISA, resulting in an embarrassing setback for Johnson though the legislation ultimately passed the House earlier Friday with bipartisan support.

Asked about the FISA passage, Trump said he was still not a "big fan" of FISA but said he told everyone to "do what you want." The bill passed reauthorizes a key FISA program for two years, meaning that if Trump is elected he will have the opportunity to review it again.

On Ukraine aid, Trump said he and Johnson were "looking at it right now." He appeared to back the idea of House Republicans considering making aid available to Ukraine as a loan, and he continued his criticism of how Washington has handled assistance to the war-torn ally as it fends off Russian invaders.

Such topics are points of contention between Johnson and the far-right wing of his party, including Rep. Majorie Taylor Greene, who introduced a motion to vacate the speaker's chair last month.

MORE: Mike Johnson, Marjorie Taylor Greene speakership standoff continues after meeting

Greene and Johnson met this week for the first time since she filed the motion. They appeared still at odds after nearly an hour of conversation, as Greene didn't back away from her threat to force a vote on whether to remove him from the top post.

The Georgia congresswoman told reporters she heard a lot of "excuses" from Johnson and that she urged him not to move forward with Ukraine aid.

PHOTO: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, speaks as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump listens during a news conference, April 12, 2024, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee/AP)

Trump's orbit isn't happy with Greene -- a long-vocal Trump supporter -- and her threat to throw the House GOP into chaos again with another speakership battle, Politico's Rachael Bade, also an ABC News political contributor, reported.

Another battle for the speaker's chair could undercut the Republican Party's efforts to maintain its majority in the House, flip the Senate and win the White House, Bade reported.

Trump said he gets along "very well" with both Johnson and Greene when asked about the situation during the joint appearance at Mar-a-Lago.

"He's doing about as good as you're going to do," Trump said of Johnson. "I'm sure Marjorie understands that, she's a very good friend of mine and I know she has a lot of respect for the speaker."

Pressed further on Greene's motion to vacate, Trump said it was "unfortunate that people bring it up because right now we have much bigger problems."

ABC News' Alexandra Hutzler contributed to this report.

Trump holds Mar-a-Lago joint appearance with Johnson amid speakership threat originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
House Speaker Mike Johnson will stand Friday with Donald Trump at an appearance that will amplify the former presidents most damaging falsehood: that Americas democratic elections are catastrophically tainted by fraud.

The countrys most powerful elected Republican, who is seeking to save his job under threat from Trump-aligned members of his own party in Congress, will travel to meet the true power in the GOP at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. The visit comes as the the ex-presidents allies are eviscerating his authority and even threatening to topple him.

It also takes place three days before Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, becomes the first former president to go on trial, with the beginning of jury selection in a New York case related to a hush money payment to an adult film star. And there will be another twist Friday in the legal saga over Trumps forthcoming trial in Florida over his hoarding of classified documents. Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon, whose no-rush management of pre-trial litigation means its increasingly unlikely the case will be adjudicated before Novembers election, will hear an attempt by two of Trumps co-accused to have the case dismissed.

The announced topic of Johnson and Trumps joint public statement on Friday is election integrity  the catch-all term for the stew of conspiracy theories and lies about the 2020 election that Trump is now using as the foundation of his 2024 bid for a new term. The price for Republicans seeking the ex-presidents support has long been a willingness to promote his fictional stolen election conceit. So Johnsons visit to Trumps residence may suggest hes ready to make a similar down payment if the ex-president prevents his ouster as speaker.

The two GOP leaders are expected to draw attention to what they say are state proposals and lawsuits that would allow non-citizens to vote, CNNs Kristen Holmes and Fredreka Schouten reported Thursday. Some cities or jurisdictions do allow non-citizens to cast ballots in non-federal elections  for positions on school boards for example. But federal law bans non-citizens from voting in federal elections and any who do risk fines, prison terms and deportation. Given these punishments, many voting rights groups assess theres no widespread problem to address. The state of Georgia, with nearly 8 million registered voters conducted a statewide audit and found that 1,634 potential non-citizens had tried to register to vote between 1997 and early 2022 but none were successful.

But given Trumps incessant attempts to blur distinctions, and to falsely claim undocumented migrants vote in US elections in large numbers as part of a Democratic plot, the distinction is likely to be lost on many people who are not familiar with the subtleties of the issue.

The stolen election falsehood that dominates the GOP

Johnsons willingness to lend the authority of his office to Trumps election integrity campaign shows how Trumps stolen election conspiracy theory has consumed almost every pillar of power in the GOP.

The Republican National Committee has become even more vociferous in campaigning and fundraising on the false premise that the 2020 election was corrupt since Trump took it over and installed loyalists after becoming the presumptive Republican presidential nominee.

CNNs KFile reported that the RNC sent out a scripted call to voters phones on behalf of new co-chair Lara Trump, the former presidents daughter-in-law, that said Democrats committed fraud in the 2020 election. It warned that if Democrats have their way, your vote could be canceled out by someone who isnt even an American citizen. Trumps election falsehoods also inspired many GOP state legislatures to pass laws in the name of election security that may make it harder to vote and could make it easier for political officials to interfere in elections. Trumps multiple failed lawsuits and even his own Attorney General William Barr offered testimony to the lack of widespread voter fraud in 2020. But Trump remains locked in his false reality.

Trump and Johnson are also expected to relitigate the 2020 election during Fridays press conference, a Trump adviser told CNN. The House speaker is no stranger to satisfying Trumps craving for validation of his stolen election narrative. After the 2020 election, Johnson, then a Republican back bencher, emailed every House Republican seeking signatures for an amicus brief in a Texas lawsuit seeking to invalidate electoral college votes from Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Trump first raised the falsehood of non-citizens corrupting US elections back in 2016, claiming with zero evidence that millions of undocumented immigrants voted for his Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton, costing him a popular vote win even though he was victorious in the Electoral College.

In the 2024 election, the new focus on the idea that non-citizens are corrupting US voter rolls provides neat synergy with one of Trumps chief election themes: that the country is facing an invasion from undocumented migrants who are bringing crime and disease to the country due to President Joe Bidens perceived failures during a crisis at the southern border. The ex-president also frequently cites a tenet of the racist great replacement theory that Democrats are importing foreigners en masse to register them to vote in the 2024 election. ITS SO THEY CAN VOTE, VOTE, VOTE, Trump said on his Truth Social network in December. No facts back up these claims of a Republican presumptive nominee who has warned immigrants are poisoning the blood of the country.

In an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network this week, Johnson expanded on the theme, describing an alleged Democratic plot to fix the electoral map. It sounds like a conspiracy theory, but I think its actually true, that the ultimate design is to turn some of these illegals into voters for their cause and to change the census outcome in 2030, Johnson said. It sounds like some sort of crazy, you know, criminal design. And in my view it is.

The impact of Trumps election falsehoods

The former presidents stolen election narrative gathered pace on election night 2020, and at first appeared like a face-saving effort to salve his ego and to hide his embarrassment that he had lost to Biden. But within days, it had become a fully fledged effort to overturn a result that made Trump a one-term president. Two days after the election, Trump declared, If you count the legal votes, I easily win. If you count the illegal votes, they can try to steal the election from us.

From small beginnings, the conspiracy theory wreaked enormous damage, including the incitement of a mob attack on the US Capitol by Trumps supporters in a bid to thwart the certification of Bidens election victory on January 6, 2021. The ex-presidents attempt to steal the election from Biden led to two of his four criminal indictments. Trumps campaign of falsehoods convinced millions of his supporters that he was ousted from office unfairly, damaging trust in the integrity of US democracy. And the falsehood has now become the backbone of another Trump presidential campaign as he dismisses efforts to enforce legal accountability for his alleged crimes as an attempt to Democrats to interfere in the 2024 election.

Johnson is in deep political trouble

Theres barely a Trump event when he doesnt renew his false claims of electoral fraud. So, one way for Republicans to build new credibility in his eyes is to give credence to his conspiracy theory.

Johnson badly needs Trumps help. His speakership  propped up by the slimmest of majorities  is hanging by a thread. This week, he was humbled when 19 Republican lawmakers  including some key Trump allies like Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz  blocked a procedural vote on reauthorizing surveillance authorities on foreigners overseas that US intelligence agencies described as vital in the battle against terrorism. They were acting on the orders of Trump, who claims he was spied on by US espionage agencies in his 2016 campaign. The bill now looks set to pass after leadership cut the length of the authorization from five to two years on the assumption that Trump will win Novembers election and can change it himself. We just bought President Trump an at bat, Gaetz told CNN.

Johnson is facing an even more serious challenge from another Trump acolyte, Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has threatened to oust the speaker if he allows a vote on Bidens long-delayed $60 billion arms and ammunition package for Ukraine. Greene is in regular contact with Trump and is often seen at his rallies. Johnson held a tense meeting with Greene this week that did little to ease her criticism, and he may be hoping that Trumps influence could help.

But Greene warned Thursday that even if the former president endorsed Johnson in Mar-a-Lago on Friday, shed continue her campaign against the speaker, arguing that any vote she called on replacing Johnson was an internal matter in the House. Totally two separate issues. Hopefully they have a great meeting tomorrow, Greene told CNNs Manu Raju. Pressed on whether she would back down if Trump asked her to, the Georgia Republican dodged. I support President Trump, Im one of his biggest fighters here in Congress. He knows it, I love the president, he loves me, were fighting hard for him to win and thats all that matters.

It is not immediately clear why Trump would welcome the chaos of yet another power struggle in the GOP majority in the House, which could deflect attention from his presidential election campaign and potentially hamper the chances of both he and House Republicans in Novembers election.

So, he may have an incentive to stabilize Johnsons leadership for now  although the former presidents political favors are notoriously fickle and can change at any moment depending on what best suits his own political needs. One person who found that out to his cost is Kevin McCarthy, the former House speaker who was kicked out last year in a revolt of far-right Republican members. The Californian did more than anyone to rehabilitate Trumps political image, traveling to Florida to meet the ex-president while he was in disgrace weeks after the US Capitol riot. But when McCarthy  who did everything he could to please Trump  fell into mortal political peril last year, Trump made little effort to save him.

The ominous echo of a previous speakers visit to Trumps ornate Mar-a-Lago estate will be resonating over Johnsons pilgrimage on Friday.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Former President Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will hold a joint press conference Friday afternoon at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla.

The two GOP leaders will speak on the subject of preventing non-U.S. citizens from voting, an area in which the two are in agreement.

Trump opposes the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which Johnson has brought to the floor, as well as a measure to provide additional aid to Ukraine. Johnson is under pressure to take action on Ukraine aid from GOP senators.

A majority of Republicans in both chambers of Congress are in favor of both FISA renewal and Ukraine aid, but Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), a strong Trump loyalist, has threatened to go forward with a bid to remove Johnson from the speakership if he takes action on either.

The press event is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. EDT.

Watch the live video above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A customer walks into the CVS at 510 S College Mall Road as another pulls into a parking space on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

CVS will close one of its pharmacies on Bloomingtons east side as part of the companys effort to reduce underperforming stores that are in close proximity to others.

CVS will close the location at 510 S. College Mall Road on May 8. The location is near two other CVS drug stores, including one in the Target store, 2966 E. Third St., and another at 2701 E. Third St. Both of the remaining locations are within a half mile of the store that will close.

Maintaining access to pharmacy services in the communities we serve is an important factor we consider when making store closure decisions, CVS spokeswoman Amy Thibault said via email. Other factors include local market dynamics, population shifts, a communitys store density, and ensuring there are other geographic access points to meet the needs of the community.

The chain had said previously it planned to reduce its store count by about 900, or 10%, according to USA Today, a sister publication of The Herald-Times. CVS has already closed about 600 stores since 2022.

Thibault wouldnt say how many employees are working at the Bloomington drugstore but said they are being offered comparable roles within the company.

All prescriptions will be transferred to the CVS location at 2701 E. Third St., she said.

Patients can always choose to fill their prescriptions at any CVS Pharmacy, or the pharmacy of their choice, if another is more convenient, Thibault said.

Job cuts: Monroe County drug maker Catalent to eliminate 130 positions. What we know

After the closure, CVS will still have seven locations in Bloomington, she said, and the chain also is offering prescription home delivery service to eligible patients through CVS.com and the CVS Pharmacy app.

The chain said last summer it would cut about 5,000 positions, or about 2% of its workforce. The cuts, which were first reported by The Wall Street Journal, were to affect non-customer facing positions.

Last fall, nearly two dozen CVS pharmacists staged a walkout in the Kansas City metro area, according to USA Today. The pharmacists said working conditions put CVS Health pharmacists and patients at risk. The workers returned after the chain promised improvements, including more workers and paid overtime.

Thibault said this week the closure of the Bloomington store was not related to the pharmacist shortage but was part of the realignment of our store footprint.

CVS Health reported nearly $94 billion in revenue in its most recent quarter, up nearly 12%, the company said. However, operating profit fell by 8%.

The companys stock price has fallen by about 13% this year. The S&P 500 is up about 8%.

Story continues

Boris Ladwig can be reached at bladwig@heraldt.com.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Bloomington CVS pharmacy on east side to close in May
By David Morgan and Nathan Layne

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Donald Trump threw his support behind embattled U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson on Friday, seeking to demonstrate unity as Johnson struggles to quell dissent within his fractious Republican majority.

"He's doing a really good job under very tough circumstances," Trump said at a press conference with Johnson at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

Johnson gained the speaker's gavel in a weeks-long October nominating battle after a handful of House Republican hardliners orchestrated the ouster of his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, a historic first.

Another party hardliner, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, has threatened to make a similar move against Johnson if he allows a vote on more aid for Ukraine as it struggles to fight off Russia's invasion. Greene had also voiced opposition to a surveillance bill the House finally passed on Friday.

Trump, the Republican presidential candidate facing a rematch against Democratic President Joe Biden in November, referred to Greene as a friend but expressed clear disapproval of her threat to oust Johnson.

"It's unfortunate that people bring it up, because right now we have much bigger problems," Trump said. "I think he's doing a very good job. He's doing about as good a job as you're going to do. I'm sure that Marjorie understands that. She's a very good friend of mine. And I know she has a lot of respect for the speaker."

In a post on X after Trump's press conference with Johnson, Greene said she supported Trump but not Johnson. She made no mention of her threat to force a vote to remove Johnson from leadership.

"I support President Trump and am working as hard as possible to help him win in November and winning a Republican House and Senate majority," Greene said. "But I do not support Speaker Johnson."

The appearance with Trump could help buck up Johnson's standing with his 218-213 majority. His own members have repeatedly torpedoed his legislative priorities, including this week by temporarily blocking the surveillance bill and in February, when it took two efforts to advance a bid to approve articles of impeachment against Biden's top border official, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Trump, who holds great sway with congressional Republicans, has also regularly weighed in on legislation, including killing a bipartisan U.S.-Mexico border security deal, passage of which could have weakened one of his key attacks against Biden.

NOVEMBER FOCUS

Trump and Johnson unveiled a proposal linking one of Trump's key campaign issues - a surge in migrants entering the country illegally via the U.S.-Mexico border - to his longstanding false claim that U.S. elections are marred by widespread fraud.

Johnson pledged to introduce legislation that would require presenting proof of U.S. citizenship before voting. Without providing evidence, Johnson said that large numbers of people entering the country illegally were being encouraged by Democrats to register to vote.

"We'll be able to ask this very important question of the Democrats ... Do you believe that Americans, and Americans alone, should be the ones who vote in American elections?" Johnson said. "We're about to find out their answer."

In a statement White House spokesperson Andrew Bates called the proposed bill "redundant" and a "stunt," noting that it is already illegal for non-citizens to vote in federal elections.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said the press conference at Mar-a-Lago was aimed at sowing "confusion and distrust in our elections."

Even if the House passes such a bill, it is unlikely to receive a warm reception in the Democratic-majority Senate or be signed into law by Biden.

Andrew Garber of the Brennan Center for Justice, said numerous studies -- including one commissioned by Trump during his presidency -- had shown voting by non-citizens to be extremely rare.

"On top of the fact that it's already illegal, there is just no evidence that non-citizens are voting in any numbers," said Garber, counsel in the left-leaning think tank's voting rights and election program. "There is no need for any new federal legislation."

(Reporting by Nathan Layne and David Morgan; Editing by Scott Malone, Jonathan Oatis, Deepa Babington and Leslie Adler)
Trump and Mike Johnson push for ban on non-US citizens voting  despite it already being illegal

Trump and Mike Johnson push for ban on non-US citizens voting  despite it already being illegal

Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson are planning to push a bill to ban non-citizens from voting during an appearance at Mar-a-Lago  something which is already illegal.

Mr Johnson is set to hold a press conference at the former presidents residence on Friday, part of longstanding Republican attack lines against Democrats. There is little evidence to suggest that non-citizen voting is a widespread issue throughout the different states. In a study of the 2016 election by the Brennan Center, researchers found that just 0.0001 per cent of voters across 42 jurisdictions, encompassing 23.5m votes, were suspected to be non-citizens who managed to vote - that is an estimated 30 incidents in total.

However, Donald Trump has incessantly laid down claims of election fraud and has subsequently spoken about his unsupported theory that migrants are in the United States because they are being signed up to vote.

I think they really are doing it because they want to sign these people up to vote. I really do, Mr Trump said at an Iowa rally in January. They cant speak a word of English for the most part, but theyre signing them up.

Non-citizens are already not allowed to vote in United States federal elections under the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 and no states allow non-citizens to vote at state-level, and in most local elections, either.

More recently, Mr Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday to post a statement in an apparent response to reports that President Joe Biden may be taking executive actions to reduce migrant crossings.

However, the former president claimed that Mr Biden opposes deportations and wants to turn his illegal migrants into voting citizens.

Yet studies on voting fraud relating to non-citizens voting show that numbers are not astronomically high, and that cases have been very rare in the past.

Since 2002, there have been just 85 cases of alleged non-citizen voting in the United States, according to a database compiled by The Heritage Foundation.

There are only three states and Washington DC that have municipalities that allow noncitizens to vote in certain local elections, which are very few and far between, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Non-citizens are not likely to try and vote as it puts them at risk of deportation and revocation of their legal status; illegally voting in a federal election can also result in a fine and one year in federal prison, the centre says.

The supposed bill comes at a time when border security has become one of the key focuses surrounding the race to the White House, with both Mr Trump and President Joe Biden targeting each other over border policies.

Mr Biden has repeatedly slammed Mr Trump and his Republican allies for blocking a bipartisan compromise bill earlier this year that would have seen sweeping changes in the US immigration system in exchange for aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.

This is literally the truth, what happened was when Trump found out that I liked it and I supported it, and Id get, quote, credit for it, he got on the phone  not a joke  checked with the Republicans and called them and said, dont be for it, will benefit Biden, the president in an interview on Tuesday with Univision.

When the hell would you vote on a major piece of legislation based on whether you benefit somebody thats in politics? Its either good or its bad. It was a good piece of legislation, and Im not giving up on it.
Former President Donald Trump pulled in millions at a fundraiser in a swanky neighborhood of Atlanta that has for years railed against the Democrat-led city's spiraling crime rate and lack of support for the police - even working to secede from the city altogether over the policies.

"Our digital online fundraising continues to skyrocket, our major donor investments are climbing, and Democrats are running scared of the fundraising prowess of President Trump. We are not only raising the necessary funds, but we are deploying strategic assets that will help send President Trump back to the White House and carry Republicans over the finish line," Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung told Fox News Digital of fundraising efforts this week.

Trump attended a fundraiser Wednesday afternoon in Buckhead, a wealthy commercial and residential district in Atlanta, where local leaders joined the 45th president, including: former Sens. Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, as well as the co-founder of Home Depot, Bernie Marcus, and poultry industry tycoon Tommy Bagwell, Fox 5 reported.

Trump pulled in more than $15 million on Wednesday, from both the Buckhead event and another fundraiser in Orlando, a campaign official said. Guests in Buckhead spent at least $6,600 per couple, and as much as $250,000 if they wished to be part of the event's welcoming committee, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

TRUMP COULD HAUL IN MASSIVE AMOUNT OF CAMPAIGN CASH DURING ATLANTA, ORLANDO FUNDRAISING SWING: WHAT TO KNOW

Former President Donald Trump arrives at Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Georgia on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Trump is visiting the state to host a campaign fundraising event.

The Buckhead fundraiser comes after Trump has repeatedly hammered a return of law and order policies across the nation if hes re-elected come Nov. 5.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

For Buckhead residents, spiraling crime rates have been a hot-button issue they have not taken lightly.

Dubbed the "Beverly Hills of the South," residents of the Atlanta district tried to secede from the city back in 2021 through last year, as violent crimes such as homicides continued an upward trend, as well as when vehicle thefts and shoplifting spiked.

The wealthy district has a median household income of $109,774, with residents accounting for roughly one-fifth of Atlantas total population, according to the districts website. Bloomberg calculated last year that the district produces about 38% of Atlantas tax revenue, meaning a secession likely would have been financially devastating for the city.

TRUMP ATTENDS SLAIN NYPD OFFICER JONATHAN DILLER'S WAKE: 'NEED LAW AND ORDER'

Multiple young men have reported being drugged and robbed after going out in Atlanta's Buckhead neighborhood.

Residents railed that city leaders weren't properly handling crime as taxpayers paid the price.

"We are really feeling like this is a war zone, and I don't say that lightly, especially given what you experienced in a war zone," Buckhead City Committee CEO Bill White told "Fox & Friends First" back in 2022. "This is murder and mayhem We are dealing with a mayor who voted to defund the police."

Atlanta recorded a 30-year record high in homicides in 2021, at 158 deaths, while reports of rape skyrocketed by 236% in the first few months of 2022 compared to the same time period the year prior, motor vehicle thefts shot up by 61% in 2023 and shoplifting increased by 22% last year. Violent crimes in the city have since ticked down, but just this week, police in Atlanta announced they were investigating a shooting outside a Buckhead furniture store that left a man in critical condition, Fox 5 reported.

Violent crimes skyrocketed across the nation in 2020, when the pandemics lockdowns upended day-to-day life, and protests and riots spread across the nation following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police. Activists and left-wing politicians echoed calls to defund the police in response to Floyds killing, including in Atlanta where the mayor at the time championed that the city had already been working on plans "reallocating" policing funds to community-based initiatives.

GEORGIA GOV. KEMP DEALS BLOW TO BUCKHEAD SUBURB TRYING TO SECEDE FROM ATLANTA OVER VIOLENT CRIME

Experts who have previously spoken to Fox Digital have pinned blame on 2020's crime trend in part on anti-police rhetoric that washed over the nation, spurring mass resignations and early retirements from the force, as well as cops pulling back from proactively policing.

The downtown skyline in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., on Friday, Dec. 3, 2021.

"It's obvious that police officers do not want to come work for a mayor or a city that does not back them, so Buckhead wants to take things into its own hands," White said during the "Fox & Friends" interview in 2022.

"We're short 180 police officers, so what are we supposed to do?" White continued. "They said this has never been done taking a part of a city out and making its own city from that, but we're going to do it, and we're going to absolutely love our police."

TRUMP CAMPAIGN RAISES MORE THAN $50 MILLION AT FLORIDA FUNDRAISER: 'HISTORIC' HAUL

The effort to secede received support from some local Republican leaders, and notably received Trumps backing, who railed against "RINO" politicians who did not come to the aid of residents demanding assistance with crime trends.

Former President Donald Trump arrives at Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Georgia on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Trump is visiting the state to host a campaign fundraising event.

"What is happening in the City of Atlanta is nothing short of disgraceful. Its national news and a regional embarrassment. The good people of Buckhead dont want to be a part of defunding the police and the high crime thats plaguing their communities," Trump wrote in February of 2022. "However, RINOs like Governor Brian Kemp, the man responsible, along with his puppet master Mitch McConnell, for the loss of two Senate Seats and 2020 Presidential Vote, Lt. Governor Jeff Duncan, Speaker David Ralston, and State Senators Butch Miller, Jeff Mullis, and John Albers always talk a big game but they dont deliver.

"What good is having Republican leaders if they are unwilling to fight for what they campaigned on? Every RINO must go! Let the voters decide on the very popular City of Buckhead proposal!"

The effort to secede ultimately failed in the state Senate last year, when all Democrats and a handful of Republicans delivered the blow with a 33-23 vote.

This year, Trump has continued hammering the issue of crime trends and public safety, including in New York last month, when he attended the wake of an NYPD officer, Jonathan Diller, who was shot and killed allegedly by a career criminal. Trump called for "law and order" outside of the funeral home.

TRUMP PROMISES TO INDEMNIFY, PROTECT LAW ENFORCEMENT FOLLOWING NYPD JONATHAN DILLER'S DEATH

"The other day I was very honored to visit the family of an amazing man, New York Police Detective Jonathan Diller. You read about it, who was gunned down by a vicious thug, who was originally arrested by different law enforcement agencies over twenty-one times for very serious crimes. And the person with them was a known killer," Trump said days later at a campaign stop in Wisconsin.

"We will very importantly restore law and order to our country, and I'm going to indemnify all police officers and law enforcement officials throughout the United States to protect them from being destroyed by the radical left for taking strong actions on crime," Trump said.

Ahead of Trumps fundraising event in Buckhead, the 45th president pulled in more than $50 million at a GOP fundraiser in Palm Beach on Saturday.





Original article source: Trump raises millions in ritzy Atlanta neighborhood that wants to secede over violent crime
Former President Trump and his allies are actively trying to give Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s campaign a boost.

While Trump and his associates call Kennedy a leftist, they are betting the independent candidate could help the former president win in a close election where many voters are agnostic about the two other choices.

Its a strategy that has been widely noticed by figures in both parties, and one Republicans think could help the former president in a tight race.

Trump is smart to prop him up, said Shermichael Singleton, a Republican strategist who has worked on three presidential campaigns.

He knows that Kennedy pulls more from Biden, and he knows if he can get on the ballot, he will absolutely have an impact.

In a post on Truth Social late last month, Trump acknowledged that Kennedys candidacy is useful to him.

He is Crooked Joe Bidens Political Opponent, not mine. I love that he is running! Trump said.

Political observers say they are expecting low voter turnout this November with two largely unpopular nominees.

Some voters are expected to consider alternatives to the GOP and Democratic nominees, including Kennedy, who is polling ahead of other third-party candidates so far.

Kennedys poll figures have dropped in aggregate polling by Decision Desk HQ and The Hill. He stood at 8.1 percent support on April 11 compared to 42.1 percent for Trump and 40.6 percent for Biden.

But his presence in the race appears to help Trump. Decision Desk HQ and The Hill aggregate polling without Kennedy in the race on April 11 had Trump with 44.8 percent support and Biden with 44.2 percent, a smaller margin for Trump than with Kennedy in the poll.

Ultimately its helpful to us, one Republican strategist said.

Kennedys presence could be a big deal in swing states if he is on the ballot in competitive races in states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and Arizona, where he has not yet qualified to be on the ballot.

While Biden has so far failed to go after Kennedy head-on, his top backers at the Democratic National Committee have taken on that effort, working to put out opposition research and dedicating a communications and legal team around Kennedy as a would-be spoiler.

The loud and palpable fear that Democrats have on this tells us this could be successful for Trump, said Republican strategist Doug Heye, who does not support the former president. He knows it, and it also fits with his strategy on messing with people. Its a new way for him to do it.

In his Truth Social post, Trump egged on Kennedy supporters, saying that while the 70-year-old independent is great for MAGA  the communists will make it very hard for him to get on the Ballot.

In a statement to The Hill, the Trump campaign doubled down on support for getting Kennedy to qualify for many states.

While Joe Biden and his allies claim to defend democracy, they are using financial and legal resources to prevent candidates access to the ballot, said Brian Hughes, a Trump campaign adviser, echoing an argument Kennedys supporters also make.

President Trump believes any candidate who qualifies for the ballot should be allowed to make their case to Americas voters, he said.

Given the Trump record of keeping household costs affordable, supporting law enforcement who keep our communities safe, and standing up to adversaries to keep our world at peace, we are confident we can win support of the voters no matter who is on the ballot.

At the same time, Hughes dubbed Kennedy a leftist and liberal with a history of supporting an extreme environmental agenda that rivals Joe Biden for its ability to kill American jobs and leave the nation less safe and less prosperous.

Those in Kennedys orbit is aware of the perception that theyre being elevated by Trump.

Theyve seen Democrats try to make direct links to his candidacy and Trumps own electoral agenda.

Democratic operatives often point to one of the most controversial figures in Trump World, Steve Bannon, as someone whos praised Kennedy and has encouraged him to seek the White House.

Kennedy himself has expressed positive sentiments toward the former president and presumptive GOP nominee throughout the cycle. Democrats say any kind words for Trump are an appeal to his voters, further bolstering their spoiler argument.

That case was made even more clear this week, when a New York-based consultant hired by Kennedys campaign to tackle the ballot access problem was videotaped saying Biden is a mutual enemy among Kennedy and Trump supporters. Kennedys campaign in response distanced itself from Rita Palma after her comments circled on social media and were used by Democrats looking for proof that the third-party bid is also elevating Trump.

Democrats are not planning on slowing down with the Trump comparisons. Some feel emboldened now that No Labels, the group trying to recruit a unity ticket, said declaratively that its not wading into the contest.

With No Labels out of the race, Kennedy and his controversial positions are about to get a lot more attention, said Doug Gordon, a Democratic strategist. The spotlight on him is going to be bright.  And it will not be kind to him.

Reached for comment Thursday, Kennedys campaign spokesperson Stefanie Spear said: What Trump is really worried about is that Kennedy will split the anti-establishment vote with him and throw the election to the Democrats.

RFK Jr. is a serious threat to Donald Trump, who therefore paints him as a leftist, she added in a statement to The Hill. For the same reason, Democrats paint him as a right-winger or secret MAGA sympathizer.

In reality he is neither, Spear insisted. He is a genuine independent who is attracting interest from disaffected Trump donors as well as disaffected Biden donors.

Trump and Kennedy have both been able to pull money from within their own circles to fund their campaigns.

While Kennedys campaign coffers dont compare to the Trump or Bidens fundraising efforts, his running mate is Nicole Shanahan, who was once married to a Google founder and can contribute a lot of money to their push.

Trump is one of the oligarchs who came down from the tower and actually ran himself. He can pay for most of his campaign, a source familiar with Kennedys campaign operations said. Having his own money and not having to worry about kissing donors asses freed him up to say things and take a posture that was very appealing to people.

I think Shanahan and Bobby are going to be able to do that now in a different way, a more diplomatic way, the source added.

Trumps strategy to amplify Kennedy is not entirely new.

In 2020, when nearly two dozen candidates were competing for the Democratic nomination, Trumps allies deployed a similar tactic to boost Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) as the primary race tightened between him and Biden.

While Trump and some in his circle publicly dubbed Sanders a socialist, they also occasionally praised him. The thinking at the time was that if Sanders became the nominee, Trump could more easily beat him than Biden. Now, theyre using Kennedy as another way to pull Biden down.

Some Republicans say Trump would be better off taking his focus off Kennedy and just keeping it on Biden.

GOP strategist Kevin Madden, who worked as a senior aide on Sen. Mitt Romneys (R-Utah) 2012 presidential campaign, said Trump focusing on Kennedy distracts from his core message, which is really drawing a contrast with Biden.

These types of messages are never best handled by the candidate, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(The Hill)  Former President Trump and his allies are actively trying to give Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s campaign a boost.

While Trump and his associates call Kennedy a leftist, they are betting the independent candidate could help the former president win in a close election where many voters are agnostic about the two other choices.

Its a strategy that has been widely noticed by figures in both parties, and one Republicans think could help the former president in a tight race.

Trump is smart to prop him up, said Shermichael Singleton, a Republican strategist who has worked on three presidential campaigns.

He knows that Kennedy pulls more from Biden, and he knows if he can get on the ballot, he will absolutely have an impact.

In a post on Truth Social late last month, Trump acknowledged that Kennedys candidacy is useful to him.

He is Crooked Joe Bidens Political Opponent, not mine. I love that he is running! Trump said.

Political observers say they are expecting low voter turnout this November with two largely unpopular nominees.

Some voters are expected to consider alternatives to the GOP and Democratic nominees, including Kennedy, who is polling ahead of other third-party candidates so far.

Kennedys poll figures have dropped in aggregate polling by Decision Desk HQ and The Hill. He stood at 8.1 percent support on April 11 compared to 42.1 percent for Trump and 40.6 percent for Biden.

But his presence in the race appears to help Trump. Decision Desk HQ and The Hill aggregate polling without Kennedy in the race on April 11 had Trump with 44.8 percent support and Biden with 44.2 percent, a smaller margin for Trump than with Kennedy in the poll.

Ultimately its helpful to us, one Republican strategist said.

Kennedys presence could be a big deal in swing states if he is on the ballot in competitive races in states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and Arizona, where he has not yet qualified to be on the ballot.

While Biden has so far failed to go after Kennedy head-on, his top backers at the Democratic National Committee have taken on that effort, working to put out opposition research and dedicating a communications and legal team around Kennedy as a would-be spoiler.

The loud and palpable fear that Democrats have on this tells us this could be successful for Trump, said Republican strategist Doug Heye, who does not support the former president. He knows it, and it also fits with his strategy on messing with people. Its a new way for him to do it.

In his Truth Social post, Trump egged on Kennedy supporters, saying that while the 70-year-old independent is great for MAGA  the communists will make it very hard for him to get on the Ballot.

In a statement to The Hill, the Trump campaign doubled down on support for getting Kennedy to qualify for many states.

While Joe Biden and his allies claim to defend democracy, they are using financial and legal resources to prevent candidates access to the ballot, said Brian Hughes, a Trump campaign adviser, echoing an argument Kennedys supporters also make.

President Trump believes any candidate who qualifies for the ballot should be allowed to make their case to Americas voters, he said.

Given the Trump record of keeping household costs affordable, supporting law enforcement who keep our communities safe, and standing up to adversaries to keep our world at peace, we are confident we can win support of the voters no matter who is on the ballot.

At the same time, Hughes dubbed Kennedy a leftist and liberal with a history of supporting an extreme environmental agenda that rivals Joe Biden for its ability to kill American jobs and leave the nation less safe and less prosperous.

Those in Kennedys orbit is aware of the perception that theyre being elevated by Trump.

Theyve seen Democrats try to make direct links to his candidacy and Trumps own electoral agenda.

Democratic operatives often point to one of the most controversial figures in Trump World, Steve Bannon, as someone whos praised Kennedy and has encouraged him to seek the White House.

Kennedy himself has expressed positive sentiments toward the former president and presumptive GOP nominee throughout the cycle. Democrats say any kind words for Trump are an appeal to his voters, further bolstering their spoiler argument.

That case was made even more clear this week, when a New York-based consultant hired by Kennedys campaign to tackle the ballot access problem was videotaped saying Biden is a mutual enemy among Kennedy and Trump supporters. Kennedys campaign in response distanced itself from Rita Palma after her comments circled on social media and were used by Democrats looking for proof that the third-party bid is also elevating Trump.

Democrats are not planning on slowing down with the Trump comparisons. Some feel emboldened now that No Labels, the group trying to recruit a unity ticket, said declaratively that its not wading into the contest.

With No Labels out of the race, Kennedy and his controversial positions are about to get a lot more attention, said Doug Gordon, a Democratic strategist. The spotlight on him is going to be bright.  And it will not be kind to him.

Reached for comment Thursday, Kennedys campaign spokesperson Stefanie Spear said: What Trump is really worried about is that Kennedy will split the anti-establishment vote with him and throw the election to the Democrats.

RFK Jr. is a serious threat to Donald Trump, who therefore paints him as a leftist, she added in a statement to The Hill. For the same reason, Democrats paint him as a right-winger or secret MAGA sympathizer.

In reality he is neither, Spear insisted. He is a genuine independent who is attracting interest from disaffected Trump donors as well as disaffected Biden donors.

Trump and Kennedy have both been able to pull money from within their own circles to fund their campaigns.

While Kennedys campaign coffers dont compare to the Trump or Bidens fundraising efforts, his running mate is Nicole Shanahan, who was once married to a Google founder and can contribute a lot of money to their push.

Trump is one of the oligarchs who came down from the tower and actually ran himself. He can pay for most of his campaign, a source familiar with Kennedys campaign operations said. Having his own money and not having to worry about kissing donors asses freed him up to say things and take a posture that was very appealing to people.

I think Shanahan and Bobby are going to be able to do that now in a different way, a more diplomatic way, the source added.

Trumps strategy to amplify Kennedy is not entirely new.

In 2020, when nearly two dozen candidates were competing for the Democratic nomination, Trumps allies deployed a similar tactic to boost Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) as the primary race tightened between him and Biden.

While Trump and some in his circle publicly dubbed Sanders a socialist, they also occasionally praised him. The thinking at the time was that if Sanders became the nominee, Trump could more easily beat him than Biden. Now, theyre using Kennedy as another way to pull Biden down.

Some Republicans say Trump would be better off taking his focus off Kennedy and just keeping it on Biden.

GOP strategist Kevin Madden, who worked as a senior aide on Sen. Mitt Romneys (R-Utah) 2012 presidential campaign, said Trump focusing on Kennedy distracts from his core message, which is really drawing a contrast with Biden.

These types of messages are never best handled by the candidate, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Trump Team Calls For More Debates With Biden, Much Earlier Than Currently Planned

Former President Donald Trump wants to face off with President Joe Biden on the debate stage much earlier, and more times than currently planned, his campaign said Thursday.

In a letter to the Commission on Presidential Debates, which sponsors and produces the events, Trumps co-campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita argued the current schedule is not good enough, noting that one million Americans will have already cast their ballots by the time of the first debate scheduled to take place on Sept. 16.

Americans were robbed of a true and robust debate in 2020, they wrote. There were only two debates, and they happened much too late in the election calendar despite voting timelines having moved up exponentially.

The commission has proposed a total of three debates this cycle between Trump and Biden with the final two set to take place on Oct. 1 and Oct. 9 respectively.

However, Trumps team wants more, citing the example of the 1858 U.S. Senate battle in Illinois, where former President Abraham Lincoln and former Sen. Stephen A. Douglas debated each other seven times.

The Commission must move up the timetable of its proposed 2024 debates to ensure more Americans have a full chance to see the candidates before they start voting, and we would argue for adding more debates in addition to those on the currently proposed schedule, Wiles and LaCivita said.

We have already indicated President Trump is willing to debate anytime, anyplace, and anywhere  and the time to start these debates is now, they added.

Ironically, though, Trump refused to take part in any of the debates scheduled by the Republican National Committee ahead of the GOPs presidential primary contests, claiming he saw no point in sharing the stage with rivals who were polling way behind him.

Besides, it remains unclear if the debates will even go ahead, as Biden has not committed to showing up so far.

It depends on his behavior, he told reporters in March in reference to Trump.

Major U.S. TV networks are reportedly planning on issuing an open letter to both Trump and Biden, calling on them to publicly commit to participating in general election debates before Novembers election, according to a draft of the document reviewed by The New York Times. Trumps team said they agreed with the pending letter.

If there is one thing Americans can agree on during this polarized time, it is that the stakes of this election are exceptionally high, the draft letter continued.

Meanwhile, Trumps campaign accused the Commission on Presidential Debates of working to advance Bidens candidacy in the 2020 election cycle, claiming among other things, that they picked a demonstrably anti-Trump moderator clearly positioned to aid Joe Biden in reference to Chris Wallace, who was employed by Fox News at the time.

Fairness in such a setting is paramount and the Commission must ensure that the 2024 Commission-sponsored debates are truly fair and conducted impartially, Wiles and LaCivita wrote.

This is not the first time that Republicans have taken issue with the nonpartisan commission that was jointly founded by both parties national committees in 1987.

The RNC in 2022 voted to withdraw from the commission but then-chair Ronna McDaniel signaled GOP nominees would continue to take part in presidential debates.

Related...
Walt Nauta has been charged with conspiring to conceal documents as well as lying to the FBI (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Donald Trumps valet said he mistook boxes containing secret documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate for boxes of hairspray, according to a transcript of an FBI interview.

According to the May 2022 interview transcript, the former presidents valet Walt Nauta repeatedly insisted that he thought the boxes of classified documents on Mr Trumps property contained news clippings, hairspray, shampoo, picture frames and other miscellaneous materials.

The documents are now at the centre of one of four criminal cases against Mr Trump, while Mr Nauta has been charged with conspiring to conceal documents as well as lying to the FBI in his interview about the location and movement of boxes of documents at Mar-a-Lago. He has pleaded not guilty.

The transcript shows that during the interview, Mr Nauta was asked by investigators whether he was aware of Mr Trump showing a document with classified markings to people while on a plane. No such event was alleged in the indictment against Mr Trump.

Mr Nauta told investigators that he was not aware of nor had he heard of any such incident, and noted that he normally sat at the back of the plane when travelling with the former president.

During the interview, FBI agents also laid out for Mr Nauta, who served in the military, why they were interested in the whereabouts of any sensitive government documents, adding that they were trying to figure out if classified documents were at least kept in a somewhat controlled environment or could they have been exposed to a foreign intelligence service.

They stressed that if certain information may have been compromised then they would need to inform intelligence agencies who could determine whether to shut down certain operations.

Like its not worth the risk, weve got to shut it down because we dont want, we dont want these peoples lives to be on the line, we dont want, like, people to, to know that our ships have these capabilities, one FBI agent said.

But it would be a lot easier if we can tell them for sure X, Y and Z so they know exactly what needs to be shut down and what doesnt, right? So thats kind of the reason why were looking into this, they added.

Mr Trump was charged in June last year by special counsel Jack Smith with illegally retaining classified documents taken with him from the White House to Mar-a-Lago after he left office in January 2021, and then obstructing government demands to give them back.

He was hit with additional charges in July accusing him of conspiring to ask a staffer to delete surveillance video at the Florida property in an effort to obstruct a federal investigation into the records.

Prosecutors said the footage captured Mr Nauta moving boxes of documents in and out of a storage room  including a day before an FBI visit to the property. The boxes were moved at Mr Trumps direction, the indictment alleges.

The indictment also charged the former president with illegally holding onto a document hes alleged to have shown off to visitors in New Jersey.

Mr Trump has denied all the charges against him, characterizing them as nothing more than a continued desperate and flailing attempt by the Biden administration to harass President Trump and those around him and to influence the 2024 presidential race.

He is the first president in US history to face a criminal trial. He is also facing two separate trials related to his efforts to overturn the result of the 2020 election, and another trial for allegedly falsifying business records in order to cover up payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels and others to stop them from going public days before the 2016 presidential election about alleged affairs.
On Monday, Donald Trump again made history, becoming the first former president to go to trial on criminal charges.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has charged Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in an effort to hide a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels. That payment, according to prosecutors and Daniels, was made to keep her quiet about an alleged extramarital affair she had with Trump prior to the 2016 presidential election. While the payment of hush money is not itself a felony, it rises to that level when done to enable other crimes, such as violating tax and campaign finance laws.

As he has with all of the criminal and civil cases filed against him, Trump has proclaimed his innocence on all charges and also denies that he had sex with Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford.

When will the trial be held and how long will it last?

Jury selection began Monday at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse in New York City. The trial will be held on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and is expected to take six to eight weeks.

Will the trial be televised?

Nope. Reporters will be allowed inside the courtroom and will be allowed to post their observations live, but news photographers will be given only 45 seconds of access to the courtroom each day, prior to the start of each session, the New York Times reported.

Will Daniels testify?

Judge Juan Merchan, who is presiding over the trial, ruled last month that Daniels could testify in the case, and she appears more than willing to share her story.

Im absolutely ready. Ive been ready, Daniels said last month in an appearance on ABCs The View. I relish the day that I get to face him and speak my truth.

Who else will take the stand for the prosecution?

Heres a whos who of the witnesses Braggs team is expected to call during the trial:

David Pecker: The former CEO of American Media (AMI), which owns the National Enquirer, Pecker agreed to pay sources for potentially damaging stories about Trump, then bury  not print  the stories in what is known as a catch and kill arrangement.

Karen McDougal: A former Playboy model who also alleges she had an extramarital affair with Trump, McDougal received a $150,000 payment from AMI for the rights to tell her story. The story never ran, and McDougal was not allowed to publish it elsewhere.

Michael Cohen: Trumps former lawyer has told prosecutors he arranged the $130,000 payment from Trump to Daniels and was reimbursed in a way that would hide the transaction from state officials and the public.

Hope Hicks: Hicks was Trumps press secretary in 2016, when the payment to Daniels was made. She has been interviewed by prosecutors about phone calls she may have participated in between Trump and Cohen about the payment.

Rhona Graff: Graff is senior VP at the Trump Organization and an executive assistant to Trump.

Madeleine Westerhout: Westerhout served as Trumps director of Oval Office operations.

Deborah Tarasoff: A former Trump Organization employee in the companys accounting department, Tarasoff could testify about Trumps bookkeeping.

Jeffrey McConney: McConney is a former executive at the Trump Organization who has knowledge of the companys financial transactions. He also testified in the civil financial fraud trial.

Could the trial still be delayed or canceled on appeal?

In the week preceding the trial alone, three different appeals court judges rejected motions from Trumps lawyers to delay the start of the trial. Trump was able to delay the trial by nearly a month after his lawyers argued that they needed more time to review evidence introduced by federal prosecutors, but his lawyers were unsuccessful in at least 11 other appeals.

Trump still has outstanding appeals, including on whether Merchan should be allowed to oversee the trial and whether his gag order preventing Trump from attacking the family members of court staff went too far. But after a string of court losses this past week, none of them delayed the start of the trial on Monday.

Is Trump required to be in court for the trial?

Former Donald Trump attends the first day of his hush money trial at Manhattan Criminal Court on Monday. (Angela Weiss/Pool via AFP via Getty Images)

Under New York law, criminal defendants are required to be in court for the duration of the trial in which they are charged. That means that days that Trump might have spent campaigning for president will be spent inside the lower Manhattan courtroom. The judge can provide some wiggle room, however, if Trump has what is considered a valid reason for missing a given court session.

What does Trump say about the charges?

Trump has been outspoken in his view that the hush money case is a Witch Hunt, that Merchan hates him and that Bragg is racist for having brought charges he says HAVE NEVER BEEN BROUGHT BEFORE.

Trump has also denied having a sexual relationship with Daniels, and has pointed to a statement she signed in 2018 in which she also denies having had sex with Trump as well as ever being paid to keep quiet about it.

Daniels has since stated she was coerced into signing the letter and that Trump lawyer Michael Cohen drafted it.

Could Trump go to prison if found guilty?

Each of the 34 charges against Trump is a Class E felony  the lowest category. All told, he could face a maximum prison sentence of four years upon conviction. If Trump is found guilty on all or some of the criminal counts, it will be up to the jury to decide how he will be punished. Many legal experts believe that jail time would be unlikely in this case.

When are Trumps other criminal trials expected to begin and how do they compare to the hush money case?

Overall, Trump faces the prospect of four different criminal trials. None of the other three have been scheduled yet, but the judges in those cases are expected to make that determination in the coming months.

Two of the cases  Georgia election interference and Jan. 6 federal election interference  involve Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results while he was still in office. The classified documents case involves Trumps handling of restricted materials after leaving the White House and his alleged efforts to block federal investigators from recovering them.

The three other cases each carry a much stiffer possible prison sentence upon conviction than the hush money case.

Can he still run or be elected president if hes found guilty?

Yes. Even if Trump is convicted in the hush money trial and sentenced to prison, there is nothing in the U.S. Constitution that prevents him from running for president from behind bars.

Have more questions?

Send us your questions about the case here. We will compile them and try to provide answers in a future post.
Last weekend, Donald Trump issued a new barrage of threats against Americans who decline to vote for him or who otherwise resist the resurgence of the MAGA movement.

This came in the form of a new video repeatedly shared on Trump's personal disinformation platform, Truth Social. Titled Trumps Virtues Part II, it extols the virtues Trump notably lacks, basically declaring that the manifestly corrupt and multiply-indicted ex-president should be followed and obeyed unquestioningly and implying that dissent is unpatriotic because Trump is a warlord facing a state of emergency. This video was reportedly created by Tom Klingenstein, partner in a Wall Street investment firm and board chairman of the Claremont Institute, who is waging what he calls a personal war against the existential threat of the woke regime.

Hardly any of the agenda-setting news media devoted any significant coverage to this propaganda video. I found no obvious mention of it in the New York Times or Washington Post, for example. That reflects a much larger pattern of the American press neglecting its basic responsibilities in the Age of Trump.

Salon columnist Heather Digby Parton quoted an extended excerpt from the video's narration:

We shouldnt much care whether our commander-in-chief is a real conservative, whether he is a role model for children or says lots of silly things, or whether he is modest or dignified. What we should care about is whether he knows we are in a war, knows who the enemy is, and knows how to win. Trump does. ... His policies are important, but not as important as the rest of him. Trump grasps the essential things. He understands that the group quota regime is evil and will not stop until it destroys America. He is a fighter  bold, brave, and decisive  who has confidence in himself and his country. ... His enemies hate him with an indescribable fierceness. Another Hitler, they say, elect him and he will be a dictator. We should take this hysteria as reason for hope. The America-haters rightly fear that he and his party are on the threshold of a successful counterrevolution. ... Trump hates his enemies every bit as much as they hate him. His enemies are Americas enemies."

In a post on X/Twitter, former federal prosecutor Joyce Vance described the video as an utterly astonishing message for a candidate for the presidency to embrace. And, just a clue, it's not about virtues":

It starts with a command  even if you can't stand Trump, you must get behind him. Has any candidate ever run like that? It gets worse. GOP voters shouldn't care if he's a conservative, a role model for children, or modest & dignified ... The tone & pacing of the video carries an echo of WWII fascism that makes me feel queasy. The important message Trump endorses about himself? "He knows we're in a war. He knows how to win." Who is the enemy? It's us. You and me. It's Democrats. It's anyone who doesn't support Trump, anyone who is [the] Other. Believe him when he tells us who he is before it's too late.

Another former federal prosecutor, Barbara McQuade, described Trumps video in a post on X as a "a master class in disinformation tactics. Demonizing and scapegoating others, embodying every man yet claiming to be godly in ability, exploiting patriotism, portraying the most extreme parts of the left as equal to the whole, and suggesting that desperate times call for desperate measures."

Seen in a larger context, Trumps sharing of this dangerous propaganda becomes even more ominous. Trump has repeatedly demonstrated his affinity for violence, his God complex and his antipathy for democracy. Numerous mental health professionals have argued since 2015 that he is an apparent sociopath, if not a full-on psychopath.

Furthermore, Trumps pathological behavior does not exist in a vacuum: Public opinion polls show that a large percentage of Americans believe that Trump was chosen by God and has the status of a prophet or messiah. Trump's admiration for Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un and Xi Jinping is well-known; as former White House chief of staff John Kelly has reported, Trump has even spoken highly of Adolf Hitler.

Trump has repeatedly threatened political enemies and rivals with violence, imprisonment or death. He has a clear pattern of referring to Black and brown people, especially immigrants or those with immigrant roots, as "vermin," "snakes" or subhuman "animals." It is reasonable to describe that as eliminationist language, which legitimates or encourages genocide.

Dahlia Lithwick of Slate recently interviewed national security expert Juliette Kayyem about Trumps use of "stochastic terrorism" and the likely scenarios for right-wing political violence surrounding this year's presidential election Election Day. Kayyem said there were "three periods" of time that especially concern her:

Now until November. This we know already because weve been promised it, which is going to be violence or the threat of violence as the extension of the electoral process. Thats going to focus on election workers, judges, and others. Were already seeing this; hes already trying to do this. Were not seeing anything organizedits the randoms. The randoms can be scary, but its not a movement that is unmanageable. So that just means greater efforts to protect courthouses and judges. It involves federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including intelligence-sharing, including threat assessments. Now, the good news is this is likely confined to six states. Its going to be Arizona and North Carolina and Georgia and Michigan and a few other swing states. Period two is between Election Day and when [a winner] is called. If its not called the first day, thats going to be insane. Biden is in charge of the federal apparatus; governors have their own law enforcement statuses, and wed better be ready for that. Wed better be ready to take states to court that are using state law enforcement in violation of due process and the protection of laws of equal access. We need Biden to own this. The third period is [about] who wins. So lets say its Trump. Do the institutions hold? I doubt it. I think that this is a once-in-a-lifetime election, a once-in-a-nationtime election. If Biden wins, then we have to anticipate that Trump only has two narratives left. One is: Hes in jail. The other is: Hes the victim. Hes going to pick the latter. The one way that you create this narrative is to create a lot of mayhem. And that scenario, were not talking about enough. I know its hard for people to imagine, but Biden could very much win. Trump continues to be Trump, and the only thing he has is to bring it all down, right?

Trump's latest propaganda video reveals much more than further evidence that he is a bad person who does bad things. That framing is embraced by the professional centrists and careerists of mainstream media as a way to rationalize their failure to pay consistent and close attention to Trump and his allies increasingly dangerous behavior. To many in the media, Trump's pathological behavior is no longer "news"; everyone who matters already knows about it. That is a false, self-serving and deeply irresponsible assumption, which only serves to smooth Trump's potential path to dictatorial power.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

As Dan Pfeiffer recently explained in his newsletter The Message Box, most of the American media "have yet to accept the reality that this is not a normal election between a Republican and a Democrat":

Donald Trump and his enablers represent an extraordinary threat to democracy. This industry, which prizes objectivity above all else, is incapable of accurately covering an election where one candidate is a normal politician and the other is a dishonest, corrupt insurrectionist. To accurately portray events would make the press out to be biased and they would rather stumble into autocracy than take a side.

There is another dimension to Trumps repeated threats of violence and chaos that merits closer attention.

Aspiring authoritarians and autocrats use a variety of means to train and socialize the public, including media and cultural elites, into compliance and submission. The threat of severe negative consequences such as violent retribution, coupled with the promise of positive rewards for loyalty and patriotism, is one of the most important such tactics. In effect, Trump is authorizing his MAGA followers to act on his behalf, and to do their utmost to ensure his return to power.

Ignoring or avoiding Trumps dangerous behavior will not stop it. In a better world, the American news media would fulfill its basic obligation to report on Trumps escalating threats in a consistent and accurate fashion. To this point, that mostly has not happened. It is not too late for media decision-makers to change their approach and stand up for democracy, but it seems increasingly unlikely they will ever do so.
Former President Trump speaks at a campaign rally in Vandalia, Ohio, last month. (Jeff Dean / Associated Press)

Former President Trump was on another one of his screeds about how Democratic prosecutors were persecuting him, saying hed been investigated by the Democrats more than Billy the Kid, Jesse James and Al Capone combined.

The crowd at a 2022 rally in North Carolina seemed to eat it up, having a hearty laugh when Trump concluded: I think Im perhaps the most honest human being that God ever created. The crowd broke into applause.

As Trump campaigns to retake the White House, polls suggest Republicans have become increasingly willing to accept his pronouncements, even as a cottage industry of fact-checkers suggests reality lies elsewhere.

Thats because his grievances and complaints about an America under siege feel true in the guts of a vast segment of the population, who therefore view Trump as a truth-teller, said Steve Schmidt, a longtime GOP political consultant.

So Trump is two things at once, said Schmidt, whose blog on national politics portrays the 45th president as a demagogue and a threat to democracy. He is simultaneously the most prolific liar in the history of American politics, and he is the most honest president we have ever had.

Donald Trump 'is simultaneously the most prolific liar in the history of American politics, and he is the most honest president we have ever had.'

Steve Schmidt, Republican political consultant

Several major media outlets had created fact-checking teams before Trump rose to prominence. In 2016, the New York Times made what then was depicted as a momentous step when it called then-candidate Trumps claim that President Obama was not born in America a lie.

But once the former reality show host won the presidency, fact-check outfits went into overdrive.

The Washington Post counted 30,573 false or misleading claims by Trump during his presidency. Many were repeat offenses, such as the more than 800 claims of election fraud, an allegation roundly rejected in the courts. After its 1,000th fact-checking of Trump this year, PolitiFact reported he was entirely or mostly wrong more than three-quarters of the time.

Its not unusual for politicians of both parties to mislead, exaggerate or make stuff up, reported PolitiFact, which did not let President Biden off the hook  finding 41% of nearly 300 of his statements entirely or mostly wrong. But American fact-checkers have never encountered a politician who shares Trumps disregard for factual accuracy.

Trumps core supporters show no sign of being put off.

A case in point came this month, when Trump used a campaign event in Grand Rapids, Mich., to renew his long-running crusade against undocumented migrants.

Read more: Trump is exploiting Ruby Garcia's death to depict immigrants as 'animals'

Trump told the story of Ruby Garcia, whose alleged killer was in the country illegally. Trump called her a beautiful ... incredible young woman. He said he spoke to some of her family about her tragic death.

But Garcias sister soon told Ken Kolker of the local NBC News affiliate that Trump hadnt spoken to anyone in the family. And Mavi Garcia said she didnt appreciate the former president turning her 25-year-old sisters death into a political talking point.

He did not speak with any of us, she told Target 8.

The Trump campaign did not respond to requests from The Times and other news outlets to discuss the discrepancy.

An everyday American calling out a former  and perhaps future  president on the news once might have been a showstopper in American politics. But no signs emerged of Trumps supporters objecting to the error, and the Garcia incident quickly became part of the ambient noise of a campaign that promises to get louder and uglier.

A recent Washington Post survey indicated that Republicans are now less likely than they were in the midst of Trumps presidency to acknowledge his untruths.

Asked whether Trump regularly makes misleading statements, the share of Republicans who said he does dipped by 10 percentage points, to 38%, since a 2018 survey. And the percentage of Republicans who said Trump usually makes flat-out false claims dipped down to 8% from 14%.

Read more: Trump is going on trial in New York today. Here's what to expect

The coverage of Trumps Ruby Garcia claims also pointed out other dubious comments by him that day.

PolitiFact, run by a Florida-based journalism education outfit, the Poynter Institute, focused on Trumps inflammatory, and untrue, claim that Venezuela was emptying its prisons and sending criminals to the United States. Its staff also noted that, overall, violent crime and homicides have declined under Joe Bidens presidency.

FactCheck.org, run by the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania, focused on how Trumps statements about immigration were misleading, noting that apprehensions at the southwest border were 14.7% higher in Trumps final year in office compared with the last full year before he was sworn in. Apprehensions hit a record high at the end of 2023, during Bidens tenure.

On Fox News, anchor Bret Baier asked about Trumps claim being denied by Garcias sister. But commentator Charles Hurt never addressed the apparent falsehood, justifying Trumps remarks as being about something that matters deeply to people. Hurt shifted the subject to another family whose daughter was killed in an accidental shooting committed by a man who had migrated illegally from Mexico.

Contrast the sharply divergent news coverage given to Trump and Ruby Garcia to reports of an earlier Biden misstatement  about where he was the day after 9/11.

In September of last year, it was the Democratic president being called out for a falsehood, after he said  on the 22nd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America  that he had visited ground zero the day after the World Trade Center towers were destroyed in 2001. In fact, he had joined a congressional delegation there nine days later.

Read more: Why Biden is getting little credit for the economy, especially in California

Many outlets, including MSNBC, NBC, CNN and PolitiFact, mentioned Bidens misstatement. A Wall Street Journal story asked, Was that a gaffe born out of fatigue, an honest mistake or an exaggeration from a president with a penchant for dropping himself in the middle of the action?

The Washington Post, the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times did not report the episode, though the Post cited a critic who attacked Biden for marking the anniversary in Alaska.

Fox devoted a good portion of its prime time to roasting Biden for lying about being at ground zero on Sept. 12, with Sean Hannity inviting several guests to trash the president for commemorating 9/11 at a locale other than one of the sites attacked  New York City, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pa. Though Biden spoke from a U.S. airbase that responded to the attacks, the Fox commentators called his behavior shameful.

Generally, Biden has been less prone to the sort of unscripted moments that fact-checkers feast on, said PolitiFact Editor in Chief Katie Sanders, explaining, in part, why so many of Trumps statements have been scrutinized.

When a politician is speaking off-the-cuff, without carefully prepared remarks in front of them, they tend to be less accurate, Sanders said.

Kathleen Hall Jamieson, a scholar on political communication and co-founder of FactCheck.org, said the reactions to misstatements tend to fit into well-worn narratives. Bidens critics belittle the 81-year-olds memory and mental capabilities. Trumps critics note his history of lying.

Read more: Column: Biden's memory is failing. So is Trump's. The question is whose flaws are more dangerous

Trump himself boasted in his 1987 memoir that he had mastered the art of hyperbole.

People want to believe that something is the biggest and the greatest and the most spectacular. I call it truthful hyperbole, Trump wrote. Its an innocent form of exaggeration  and a very effective form of promotion.

Whether any of the campaigns untruths make a lasting impression on voters depends on many factors, including whether they become the subject of ads, a memorable debate moment or a campaign trail meme, Jamieson said.

Joe the Plumber became a recurring character in the 2008 presidential campaign after Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher pressed then-Illinois Sen. Barack Obama in Ohio about whether his tax plan would hurt small businesses.

Arizona Sen. John McCain, Obamas GOP opponent, brought Wurzelbacher to future campaign events and made sure his view was featured in the candidates final debate.

Jamieson said confirmation bias always has been a hallmark of political true believers but has only intensified in the Trump era, on both sides.

Its a way of understanding virtually everything, she said, explaining how people sometimes process unfavorable messages. They are already inside their tribe, so if there is a dissonant message, the way to reduce the dissonance is to say it doesnt matter, or it doesnt change that candidates fidelity on a core issue.

Times researcher Scott Wilson contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
In response to a dealer memo unexpectedly leaked on Thursday, Ford has confirmed that the automaker is cutting the prices of most versions of its all-electric 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning.

The latest breakdown in pricing, according to Ford, is:

Pro (240-mile EPA-estimated range) remains unchanged at $54,995.

XLT 311 A (240-mile EPA-estimated range) from $64,995 to $62,995.

Flash (320-mile EPA-estimated range) from $73,495 to $67,995.

Lariat 511 A (320-mile EPA-estimated range) from $79,495 to $76,995.

Platinum 710 A (300-mile EPA-estimated range) remains unchanged at $84,995.

This price adjustment comes prior to the launch of the 2024 Lightning available for order at Ford.com later this month, Ford spokesman Marty Gunsberg said Thursday evening. Pricing remains unchanged for the 2023 F-150 Lightning, which is available for customers now.

Prices released are suggested retail prices. Trucks priced below $80,000 qualify for a $7,500 tax credit, Gunsberg noted.

The award-winning 2024 F-150 Lightning pickup has been held for quality review since Feb. 9, 2024, Ford said. They'll begin shipping the vehicle to dealers after the review is complete.

The Lightning remains the bestselling truck in the U.S. and prices will be adjusted, Gunsberg said, as Ford continues to adapt to the market "to achieve the optimal mix of sales growth and customer value."

He also confirmed to the Detroit Free Press on Thursday that Ford is offering current Tesla owners a $1,500 discount as part of a "Tesla Competitive Conquest Bonus Cash" program that may be applied to the purchase of a 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning or a 2023 Mustang Mach-E.

Ford going right at tesla with "Tesla Competitive Conquest Bonus Cash," according to reports. $1500 off a F 150 lightning for current tesla owners $tsla $f #cybertruck  Ross Gerber (@GerberKawasaki) April 11, 2024

Prices continue to fluctuate

In January, Ford announced prices on model year 2024 pickups would increase anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 from the year prior while premium trucks already saw price cuts of $5,000 to $10,000.

Below are the original Lightning cost change between 2023 and 2024 model years:

Pro (240-mile EPA-estimated range) from $49,995 to $54,995.

XLT 311 A (240-mile EPA-estimated range) from $54,995 to $64,995.

XLT 312 A (320-mile EPA-estimated range) from $69,995 to eliminated in 2024.

Flash (320-mile EPA-estimated range) is a new offering for $73,495.

Lariat (240-mile EPA-estimated range) from $69,995 to eliminated in 2024.

Lariat (320-mile EPA-estimated range) from $77,495 to $79,495.

Platinum (300-mile EPA-estimated range) from $91,995 to $84,995.

Platinum Black (300-mile EPA-estimated range) from $97,995 to $92,995.

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Analyst: Buyers want more than lower prices

John McElroy, veteran industry analyst and host of "Autoline After Hours" webcast and podcast, told the Detroit Free Press on Thursday: "Look, the whole thing is that so many people say, 'Jeez, I'm interested in an EV but they're so expensive.' If you can get the right price, people will jump at it. They're obviously (at Ford) going at this with a scalpel."

Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, told the Detroit Free Press: "This is basic economics. The industry has too many electric vehicles chasing too few buyers, which just drives down the price. Luring buyers takes more than lowering the price. It takes confidence in the product, more charging stations and better education on the benefits of EVs."

Weak demand has contributed to challenges for longtime Wall Street darling Tesla, too.

Ford credited its hybrid and electric vehicle sales with a strong first quarter report earlier this month.

More: Loyal customer aggravated Ford wouldnt adjust Lightning order, respond after price slash

More: Ford to dramatically cut hourly workforce at F-150 Lightning plant in Dearborn

Contact Phoebe Wall Howard: 313-618-1034 or phoward@freepress.com. Follow her on X @phoebesaid.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Dealer memo leak reveals price cuts on 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning
A few weeks ago, the library of Cambridges Trinity College (home of the recently defaced Lord Balfour portrait) exhibited four Australian fishing spears. They are all that remain from a collection of 40-50 stolen by James Cook and the crew of HMB Endeavour in 1770  during the first landing by Europeans at Botany Bay. Cooks arrival wasnt a peaceful affair: two members of the indigenous Gweagal people resisted the British landing, and one was shot as a result. Now, 254 years after their departure from Australia, the four spears are about to be returned to the Gweagal.

This all coincides with the release of Hampton Sidess The Wide Wide Sea, which tackles the third voyage (and inglorious end) of one of Britains most renowned explorers. It reconsiders a figure who has long enjoyed a reputation for humane leadership, dedication to science and respect for indigenous societies that has come under recent scrutiny as a part of the wider reckoning with Britains past. Sides brings in the commentary of anthropologists and historians at the right times, but is mainly focused on telling a lively, accurate story that skips deftly over moral oubliettes. It makes for a rollicking good read, with a tone that reminds me of David Granns recent tale of the 1741 Wager shipwreck.

Accompanying Cook as far as his Polynesian homeland was Mai, the first Pacific Islander to set foot on English shores (immortalised in Joshua Reynoldss portrait). Mais efforts to reintegrate into Polynesian society make up the bulk of the narrative, as he had been wholly changed by his encounters with the English  having mixed with Londons beau monde, from Samuel Johnson to George III, during his two years in the country. Cook attempts to support him, providing him with goods and security, but this comes with drastic consequences for the islanders (who had, until then, not worried about European notions of wealth or private property).

A watercolour of Cook's ship HMS Resolution, painted by Midshipman Henry Roberts, a member of the ship's company - Alamy

Theres also a detective story en route, as Cook searches for the truth about a grisly episode concerning his second voyages sister-ship, the Adventure, where 10 crew members were killed and eaten in New Zealand. This was seemingly part of a whangai hau ceremony  where Maori absorbed their enemies souls and those of their ancestors. Later in Tahiti we bear witness to another piece of ritualised human sacrifice, here in order to gain the favour of the gods before a military excursion against a neighbouring island. Cook offends the chieftain, Toofa, by explaining (with Mais help) that the ceremony would be illegal in England. Both parties collapse into bafflement, the English leaving the Tahitians with as great a contempt for our customs as we could possibly have of theirs. Ships surgeon William Anderson had a less patient view of all this, writing of the horrid ceremony that reflected the grossest ignorance and superstition.

By this final voyage, something seemed to have changed about Cook. His fastidious demand for cleanliness would send him into rages, and he was suffering from intensifying bouts of sciatica and ill health. Nevertheless he weathered the trans-Pacific voyage, dropping off Mai and turning towards the secret mission given to him by the crown before his departure: the discovery of the Northwest Passage, the fabled sea route over the top of the Americas. The final chapters see Cook moving up past Nootka Sound, and through the Bering Strait, before turning back to winter in the warmer waters of Hawaii.

Interactions with the Hawaiians were immediately tense. When Cooks ships had stopped the previous year, his sailors had left behind a cocktail of venereal diseases, now ravaging the islands. He resupplied and left as quickly as possible, but was forced to turn back by a split foremast. Here, Cook met his end  stabbed while attempting to take the Hawaiian king hostage in order to secure the return of some stolen small-boats. Sides barely goes into detail about the remainder of the expedition, which made some small effort to head northwards again but quickly turned back after the death of new commander Charles Clerke. A quote from Goethe rings out over Cooks wild ambition and seemingly inevitable fall: A man who is deified cannot live longer, and must not live longer, for his own and for other peoples sake.

The Wide Wide Sea is published by Michael Joseph at 25. To order your copy for 19.99, call 0808 196 6794 or visit Telegraph Books

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By Thomas Escritt

BERLIN (Reuters) - A television debate between the leader of the German far-right's most extreme faction and the centre-right's leader in the same region highlighted the fragility of Germany's defences against the far-right.

Bjoern Hoecke, the Thuringia leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which is leading in polls ahead of state elections in September, faced off against Christian Democrat state leader Mario Voigt in a 70-minute duel on Thursday night that analysts saw as satisfying both sides' political interests.

Hoecke is the figurehead of the AfD's most radical wing, famed for complaining that Nazi leader Adolf Hitler "is always presented as absolute evil" and for using ambivalent phrases such as "all for Germany" - which the former history teacher said he had not known was the slogan of Hitler's paramilitaries.

Voigt and the two moderators from Welt television largely attempted to pin Hoecke down on these and other quotes from Hoecke's past, with Voigt accusing Hoecke of endangering Germany's prosperity by pushing for it to leave the EU.

"I am a democrat, you are authoritarian," Voigt told Hoecke in one of many barbs he levelled.

Hoecke sought to dispel suspicions that he is a neo-Nazi, presenting himself as a moderate potential coalition partner for Voigt.

"My hand is always stretched out in greeting," he said, talking of how, as a former teacher and father "nothing could be further from me than hate".

He described the Nazi Holocaust as "an outrage".

The AfD has faced repeated street protests since the leaking in January of meeting minutes where a senior party member discussed the "remigration" of "unassimilated" migrants with German passports.

Hoecke attempted to redefine this, stating, to incredulity from his debate partners, that "remigration" was about persuading the 1.5 million Germans who lived abroad to return home.

But the elevation of the AfD's most controversial figure to a debate partner was also a sign that the mainstream parties' wall against the far-right - the principle that they will not govern with the party nor treat its emissaries are normal political figures - has limits.

For Voigt, analysts said, debating a controversial figure offered a valuable chance to profile himself, leader of the party running second in the polls, against Bodo Ramelow, the popular Left party state premier, who runs a minority government.

"It may have been a success for both, because it turned September's election into a choice between Hoecke or Voigt," political scientist Andre Bodocz told Der Spiegel.

(Reporting by Thomas Escritt, Editing by Rachel More and Angus MacSwan)
Two arrested on drug-related charges following coordinated operation in Oshkosh

OSHKOSH, Wis. (WFRV)  Two people were arrested in Oshkosh after authorities carried out a coordinated operation.

According to the Oshkosh Police Department, on April 11 authorities executed two drug search warrants in the 700 block of Franklin Street. Officials say that two people were arrested as a result of the operation.

18-year-old who caused Shawano County bonfire explosion is sentenced

A 32-year-old man from Oshkosh is reportedly facing multiple drug-related charges tied to cocaine and marijuana. Additionally, officials say that a 37-year-old Oshkosh man was arrested on drug-related charges.

The department said it continues to investigate drug crimes within the city.

The Oshkosh Police Department Vice and Narcotics Unit continues its steadfast efforts to investigate drug crimes within the city, maintaining its commitment to fostering a safe community for all. Oshkosh Police Department on Facebook

Anyone with information regarding drug-related crimes is encouraged to call the Oshkosh Police Department at 920-236-5700.

Authorities arrest, tie Costco bomb threat and bank robbery in same Wisconsin village to one suspect

No additional details regarding this incident were provided.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
POCONO TWP., MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Two people have been arrested during a traffic stop after police say they were found with various drugs.

According to the Pocono Township Police Department, on March around 11:40 p.m., officers pulled over a car on State Route 611.

Two arrested for alleged supermarket retail theft

Police made contact with three people, two of them being Shalimar Pellot-Badillo, 28, from Lebanon, and Amber Moyer, 32, from Cleona. Officers said clues and behavior indicated the use and possession of drugs.

The car was impounded, and a search warrant was issued. During the search, Police say they found heroin, methamphetamine, related paraphernalia, and brass knuckles.

All three were arrested and charges were filed against Pellot-Badillo, Moyer, and one other person who was not identified.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
Two arrested in Folsom attack. Suspects used homophobic slurs in alleged hate crime, police say

Folsom police officers arrested two suspects accused of uttering homophobic slurs while punching and kicking a man dozens of times Thursday at a park near the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, police said.

The victim was painting at Folsom City Lions Park on Thursday evening near a gazebo before the unprovoked attack, according to the Folsom Police Department. Two suspects  a 22-year-old man and 35-year-old woman  held the man on the ground while punching and kicking him more than 50 times, police said online.

Police, who were called to the park around 8:50 p.m. for reports of a fight in progress, said the suspects used homophobic slurs and prevented the mans escape while mounting the attack.

The victim eventually escaped and fled home, police said. Officers located the two suspects near the scene of the attack.

The 22-year-old man was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail on felony charges of battery causing bodily injury and committing a hate crime, as well as a misdemeanor charge of violating a protective or stay-away court order. Hes being held without bail and is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday in Sacramento Superior Court, according to jail logs.

The 35-year-old woman faces felony counts of assault and committing a hate crime, as well as a misdemeanor charge of violating a protective or stay-away court order. Shes being held on $20,000 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned Monday, according to jail logs.

Both suspects were described by police as being unhoused.
These two city manager candidates are the finalists to lead Topeka city government

The city has further narrowed its search for a new city manager.

Interim co-communications director Rosie Nichols said Thursday that the city government has selected two finalists in the search for a city manager: Alan Howze and Robert Perez.

Nichols said the city government will meet for a special meeting with the two candidates to conduct follow-up interviews. The interviews will be in executive session and closed to the public.

She also said the city most likely won't announce a new city manager for another two weeks because after making a selection, city government leaders will need to draft and negotiate the contract with the candidate.

Alan Hozwe, from Wyandotte County, is a candidate for the Topeka city manager position.

Alan Howze is assistant administrator for Wyandotte County and Kansas City

Alan Howze is a public sector executive and has focused on building strong, financially sustainable communities and delivering high-quality public services. He's gained more than 20 years of governmental experience and currently works as the assistant administrator for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas.

During the finalist meet and greet on Monday, April 11, Howze said he wanted to find ways to address the growing violent crimes in the Topeka area. He also said he's unique from the other candidates because he's familiar with the community.

Robert Perez, from Dallas, is a candidate for the Topeka city manager position.

Robert Perez is assistant city manager of infrastructure for Dallas

Robert Perez is the assistant city manager of infrastructure for Dallas. He has more than 20 years of municipal government experience while working for Dallas and San Antonio. Perez has wide-ranging experience in multiple sectors, including different forms of government and social work.

During the meet and greet, Perez said he'd want to provide the homeless population with long- and short-term solutions. He also said he wants to make economic development a priority.

Initial finalists for the Topeka city manager position were, from left, Jeffrey Dingman, Alan Howze, William Jones, Robert Perez and Abbe Yacoben.

Why is Topeka hiring a new city manager?

The former city manager Stephen Wade was fired in July, and a city spokeswoman later said he allegedly had an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate. Richard U. Nienstedt has since served as interim city manager.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Topeka picks Alan Howze and Robert Perez as final city manager options
MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11)  Police are searching for a man who attacked two people with a knife inside a deli in Washington Heights, according to the NYPD.

The attack happened at around 11:08 p.m. Thursday at a deli on West 161st Street, police said.

Subway fare evasion suspect punches NYPD officer in Manhattan: NYPD

A 29-year-old victim and a 71-year-old victim sustained injuries to their left forearm and left neck, respectively.

The suspect fled toward Fort Washington Avenue, according to the NYPD. Police described the suspect as a 510 male in his 50s with a scar on his face. He was last seen wearing a green coat, gray hoodie, and white sneakers.

Both victims refused medical attention at the scene. The incident was unprovoked, police said, and it was unknown if the suspect and victims knew each other before the attack.

Suspect charged after dismembered body found in Brooklyn home: NYPD

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Two teens accused of carjacking that happened near shooting at light rail station

(FOX40.COM)  Two teenagers were arrested Thursday in connection to a carjacking that happened shortly after a deadly shooting near a light rail station in March.

The Sacramento Police Department said a 16-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy were booked at Juvenile Hall on charges related to the carjacking.

The case related to the shooting will be presented to the District Attorneys Office for filing of any other charges, police said.

On March 21, a man died and another two people were hospitalized after a shooting near the University/65th Street light rail station.

Suspect in double homicide fatally shoots self during arrest, Sacramento officials say

The Sacramento County Coroners Office identified the man killed as 25-year-old Levell Murphy.

Police said they were looking for two suspects connected to the shooting, who fled the scene and were potentially armed.

An officer previously told FOX40.com that a nearby carjacking had taken place and that police were trying to determine if it was connected to the shooting.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
A North Texas anesthesiologist has been found guilty of injecting heart-stopping drugs into IV bags, causing a doctors death and several medical emergencies in 2022, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton said Friday.

Dr. Raynaldo Ortiz, of Plano, was indicted in October 2022 by a grand jury on five federal charges of tampering with consumer products and five counts of adulteration of drugs.

He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison at sentencing after the jurys verdict in the trial Friday in a Dallas federal courtroom.

The former anesthesiologist injected nerve-blocking agents, such as bupivacaine, and other drugs, into IV bags of saline at Baylor Scott & White Surgicare North Dallas, according to a federal criminal complaint. He then put the bags in a communal warmer and waited for them to be used in other doctors surgeries, Simonton said in a video posted to X after Fridays verdict.

Eleven patients all expecting routine, quick-recovery procedures suffered unexpected and unimaginable horror. Worst yet, a fellow anesthesiologist who treated herself for dehydration with a tainted bag writhed in pain and died as her husband watched, Simonton said. Dr. Ortiz cloaked himself in the white coat of a healer, but instead of curing pain, he inflicted it.

In June 2022, anesthesiologist Melanie Kaspar wasnt feeling well one day and used an IV bag she got from a hospital at home in an attempt to feel better, according to the complaint. She later died and authorities confirmed the bag was compromised.

An autopsy report concluded that Kaspar died of an accident involving bupivacaine toxicity and the nerve-blocking agent was found in her bloodstream.

Two months after Kaspars death, an 18-year-old male patient, identified as J.A. in court documents, experienced a cardiac emergency in a scheduled surgery. The teen was intubated and transferred to a local ICU.

Chemical analysis of the fluid from a saline bag used during his surgery revealed the presence of epinephrine (a stimulant that could have caused the patients symptoms), bupicavaine, and lidocaine, according to court documents.

Surgical center personnel concluded that the incidents involving Kaspar and the teen suggested a pattern of intentional adulteration of IV bags used at the center, according to the complaint.

The centers personnel identified about 10 other unexpected cardiac emergencies that occurred during otherwise unremarkable surgeries between May and August 2022, which the complaint alleged to be an exceptionally high rate of complications over such a short period of time.

Most of the incidents occurred during longer surgeries that used more than one IV bag, including one or more bags retrieved mid-surgery from a stainless steel bag warmer. None of the incidents happened during Ortizs surgeries, but they began just days after Ortiz was notified he was facing disciplinary actions due to mistakes he made in his own surgeries, according to the complaint. This led him to sabotage his colleagues surgeries, Simonton said in her post Friday.

In attempt to taint his colleagues reputations, he [Ortiz] destroyed his own life and horribly impacted many innocent lives around him, Simonton said.

Surveillance video from the centers operating room hallway showed Ortiz placing IV bags into a stainless-steel bag warmer shortly before other doctors patients experienced cardiac emergencies, the complaint alleged.
A Wells Fargo supervisor will have to answer a lawyers questions about allegations that the bank terminated her client because of disability and age discrimination, a federal judge ruled.

The San Francisco-based financial giant, with a major presence in Charlotte, wanted to disqualify Christopher Billesdons lawyer, L. Michelle Gessner, because she previously represented the supervisor in a different matter involving Wells Fargo. The request was denied by a North Carolina federal judge on Tuesday, Law360 reported.

Billesdons case against Wells Fargo began in March 2023 when he sued his former employer in the U.S. District Court for Western North Carolina. The complaint said Wells Fargo violated the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967.

Billesdon, 52, claims John Templeton fired him because he wanted to work from home when the bank started to have employees return to the office after the COVID pandemic. Billesdon suffers from a paralyzed colon and bladder that dramatically affected the working conditions he needed, he argued.

In allowing Gessner to question Templeton, U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan C. Rodriguez said the bank failed to show that the lawyers former representation is substantially related to the current controversy.

A request to stay home

The suit claims Billesdon was fired after wanting to work from home because of medical needs for his paralyzed colon and bladder and the associated side effects of taking medicine. But Wells Fargo told Billesdon that he was being terminated because of cost-cutting, the suit claims. He was notified about it on Feb. 24, 2022.

His disability began in 1990 after being involved in an accident that fractured his spine, according to the suit.

He was employed by Wells Fargo for about 25 years in various positions at offices in the Los Angeles area and Charlotte. The suit claims that his teams generated tens of millions of dollars in sales for the bank.

Billesdon moved to Charlotte from Los Angeles in August 2020 during the pandemic and kept his position as the Head of West Coast Asset Backed Finance Sales within Wells Fargo Securities Corporate & Investment Banks Markets Division.

He and all workers were working from home at that time. In 2021, as talk of returning to the office increased, Billesdon asked for accommodations in August 2021. That was denied in December 2021 and he was terminated in February 2022, weeks before a mandatory return-to-office for all employees, the suit claims.

The suit claims that the Charlotte office did not have the right working conditions for Billesdon because of bathroom locations on the opposite side of the building where his groups were situated.

Story continues

He made a written request with the help of an ADA advocate in August 2021. After Wells Fargo acknowledged the request several months later, Billesdon claims, managing directors had a very different attitude toward him.

For example, they began to avoid, and cease contact with Mr. Billesdon, such that he had to attempt on numerous occasions to coax them into responding to him, the suit says.

He claims that Wells Fargo terminated him so other employees could not use him as a reason to work from home too.

Fisher Phillips law firm is representing Wells Fargo. The bank believes the claims in the lawsuit are without merit, a spokesperson said on behalf of the bank.

Wells Fargo provides equal employment opportunities to all employees, regardless of disability, age or any other status protected by applicable law, the bank said in a statement to The Charlotte Observer. We value and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our business and at all levels.

A jury trial is being demanded for the case.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, center with black turban, leads a prayer over the coffins of Revolutionary Guard members killed in an airstrike in Syria, in a photo released by Khamenei's office. (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader via AP)

The U.S. and its allies are sounding an unusually urgent alarm over Irans possible plans to retaliate in the coming days over Israels purported killing of senior Iranian officials at a diplomatic mission in Syria.

An Iranian action, it is feared, would probably provoke an Israeli response, which could ratchet up violence in the region.

U.S. officials said this week that Iran appears to be lining up a series of potential retaliations, including direct attacks on Israeli assets  within Israel territory or at diplomatic missions, or operations carried out by proxy groups, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon on Israels northern border, and pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.

Iran is threatening to launch a major attack on Israel, President Biden said Thursday. Our commitment to Israels security in the face of these threats from Iran and its allies is unwavering.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed similar thoughts. Threats by Iran are inadmissible, he said.

The trigger for the latest Israel-Iran standoff is the April 1 bombing of an Iranian building adjacent to the Iranian Embassy in Damascus, in which seven high-ranking Iranian military officers from the Islamic Republican Guard were killed. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility.

Iran maintains the attack on its diplomatic mission violated international law. U.S. officials say regardless of whether the building had diplomatic status, it was being used to conduct what they call terrorist operations targeting Israel from Lebanon.

The evil regime [Israel] made a mistake and must be punished, Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week.

Biden administration officials are not pleased to see the latest tensions, which come as Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas are attempting to negotiate a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and the possible release of dozens of Israeli hostages, including several U.S. citizens.

In recent days, senior administration officials say, the U.S. has been frequently exchanging messages with Iran and Israel, in an effort to tone down tensions.

The U.S. is urging restraint by Iran and warning that no strikes should be carried out against U.S. targets. To Israel, the U.S. is saying it will offer support in the case of a major assault, but also urging a calibrated reaction from Israel commiserate with the scale of Tehrans operation.

The U.S. has insisted to Iran that it was not involved with nor aware of the April 1 attack.

Other countries, including several Arab nations, are also pressing Iran to show restraint, diplomats said.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has made clear that escalation is not in anyones interest, and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Thursday. Escalation is not in Irans interest, its not in the regions interest, and its not in the worlds interest.

Conventional wisdom dictates that Iran does not want a war with the United States. But short of that, the Islamic Republics retaliation would have to be carefully dialed up in a way that does only minimal damage to Israel while demonstrating its determination to stand up to external attacks from a hated enemy.

The April 1 attack attributed to Israel came as Hamas, Persian Gulf states and the U.S. were involved in complicated negotiations to free hostages in Gaza seized by Hamas in the Oct. 7 assault.

Some analysts believe Hamas will now be less likely to release hostages as it waits to see the next move by its patron, Iran.

Negotiators in the hostage release are discussing the release of 40 people in the categories of women, children and men over 50 years of age. But U.S. officials say it appears there are no longer 40 living hostages to fit that category, and so Hamas would have to be willing to add other hostages, such as younger non-military men. In exchange, Israel would release a still fluctuating number of Palestinians held in Israeli jails.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The U.S. Embassy in Israel has issued a new security alert that restricts its government employees and their family members from personal travel outside three cities amid heightened tensions in the region.

The alert restricted personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva areas until further notice out of an abundance of caution.

The embassy said it may also further prohibit travel to certain areas of Israel, including the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank, in response to security incidents and without advance notice.

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness as security incidents often take place without warning, the security alert published Thursday read. The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events.

The security warning comes after an Israeli airstrike hit an Iranian embassy building in Damascus, Syria on April 1, killing at least seven Iranian officials and ratcheting up fears of a regional war. The Israeli government hasnt publicly acknowledged the strike.

Iran has vowed to retaliate against Israel and hold the countrys ally, the U.S., answerable. (American officials said Israel did not notify them about the strike and the U.S. was not involved.)

Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has said that Israel "must be punished and it shall be, Reuters reported. Irans Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian previously said in a statement that "The U.S. should be held accountable.

In turn, Israeli leaders have pledged to respond: If Iran attacks from its own territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran, Foreign Minister Israel Katz posted on X in an English translation.

Read More: Column: Israels Dangerous Game With Iran

The tense situation has left U.S. officials scrambling to contain the fallout amid fears that Iran could strike U.S. targets in response. U.S. Gen. Erik Kurilla, head of U.S. Central Command, traveled to Israel on Thursday to address the threats. President Joe Biden said this week that support for Israel against the threat of a significant attack from Iran is ironclad.

When asked during a news conference Thursday whether the new Israel travel alert was linked to the threat from Iran, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said: We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.

Israels in a very tough neighborhood, and we have been monitoring the security situation. You saw us slightly adjust our travel warnings at the beginning of this conflict, and we conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground, he added.

Miller said he wouldnt speak to the specific assessments that prompted restricting personal travel, but said the decision was made as a result of monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East, and was made public to ensure U.S. citizens living or traveling in Israel were also aware.

Read More: U.S. Scrambles to Contain Fallout from Israels Strikes on Iranians and Aid Workers

Miller said that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to his counterparts in Turkey, China, and Saudi Arabia over the past 24 hours to make clear that escalation is not in anyones interest, and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate. (The U.S. and Iran have had no diplomatic relations since 1980.)

Amir-Abdollahian said in a post on X that Iran is not seeking escalation of hostility, but added he had told the foreign ministers of Germany, the U.K., and Australia in separate calls to condemn Israels attack on the embassy building in Damascus. Amir-Abdollahian said that the return to sustainable security was tied to controlling Israel and ending its war in Gaza.

The strike in Syria this month was the latest in a series of tense incidents between the regions major players and their allies following Hamas attack on Israel in October and the ensuing war that has devastated Gaza. Those include increased violence along the Israel-Lebanon border between Israels military and Hezbollah militants, Red Sea attacks by Yemens Houthi rebels that prompted retaliatory airstrikes from the U.S. and U.K., and a drone strike that killed three U.S. soldiers in Jordan, triggering a U.S. air assault in response against militias.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
The United States Embassy in Israel on Thursday said restrictions have been imposed on government employees and their families amid mounting fears of an imminent attack by Iran.

The security alert said staffers and their loved ones will be prohibited from all personal travel outside of the areas of greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva until further notice. The update said the restrictions are being imposed out of an abundance of caution.

Bidens Very Dangerous Race to Avert All-Out War With Iran

It did not specifically mention Iran, though Tehran has vowed to retaliate against what it described as an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian embassy complex in Syria on April 1. The attack in Damascusfor which the Israeli government has not claimed responsibilitykilled 13 people including two Iranian generals and five officers.

Im not going to speak to the specific assessments that led to us to restrict our... employees and family members personal travel, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. But clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East, and specifically in Israel.

President Joe Biden warned earlier this week that Iran is threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel and affirmed that the U.S. commitment to protecting Israels security is ironclad.

He did not elaborate on when or what form the attack may take, but a subsequent report in The Wall Street Journal claimed that Israel is bracing for an Iranian attack in either the north or south of Israeli territory as soon as Friday or Saturday, a person familiar with the matter said.

Another source told the Journal that while Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been briefed on several strike options, he has not yet taken a decision. A direct attack on Israeli soil could trigger a massive retaliation, with alternative options reportedly including an assault by Tehrans proxies in Iraq and Syria, strikes in the Golan or Gaza, or even attacks on Israeli embassies internationally.

General Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of the U.S. Central Command responsible for the Middle East, was sent to Israel on Thursday to coordinate with the Israelis around the potential Iran attack, according to The New York Times. Unnamed officials also said that Kurilla would discuss the war against Hamasa group supported by Iranin Gaza and ongoing work bringing humanitarian aid into the enclave.

We are in challenging times, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during a visit to Tel Nof Airbase in central Israel. We are in the midst of the war in Gaza, which is continuing at full force, even as we are continuing our relentless efforts to return our hostages. However, we are also prepared for scenarios involving challenges in other sectors.

Without explicitly mentioning the Iranian threat, Netanyahu then appeared to indicate that he is prepared to retaliate against any attack. We have determined a simple rule: Whoever harms us, we will harm them, he said. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, meanwhile, was reportedly frustrated that the U.S. had not been given advance warning of the Damascus airstrike. According to The Washington Post, Pentagon officials viewed the strike as an escalation that increased risks to American troops deployed in the Middle East, with Austin and others believing that prior warning would have allowed the U.S. to shore up defenses to protect both Israel and American forces from a potential Iranian retaliation.

Austin complained to his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, during a call Thursday, according to the Post. The Pentagons readout from the call made no mention of such a complaint, saying instead that Austin reaffirmed Bidens expressions of support in the face of growing threats from Iran and its regional proxies. Secretary Austin assured Minister Gallant that Israel could count on full U.S. support to defend Israel against Iranian attacks, which Tehran has publicly threatened, it added.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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U.S. and Japan show support for Philippines

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The White House and Congress rolled out the red carpet for Japans prime minister this week. His high-profile meetings in Washington and a rare speech at the Capitol were designed to get the attention of China and U.S. lawmakers.

Prime Minister Kishida stressed the alliance between Japan and the U.S. is more important than ever.

The U.S. should not be expected to do it all, said Kishida.

Kishida told Congress Japan is committed to be a strong partner to the U.S. to counter growing aggression from China.

We are now at an inflection point that will define the next stage of human history, he said.

The Japanese leader urged all democracies to help prevent war in the region.

Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow, Kishida said.

The Chinese government continues to threaten Taiwan and has attacked Philippine ships in disputed areas of the South China Sea.

President Biden and Kishida held their first-ever trilateral meeting with the Philippine president to discuss security in the region.

The United Statess defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, said Biden.

China has been monitoring Kishidas trip to Washington and accused the U.S. and its allies of interfering in its domestic affairs.

During a ceremonial luncheon with Vice President Harris and Secretary of State Blinken the two countries announced theyre launching a new partnership in space.

A Japanese astronaut will join NASAs upcoming lunar missions and become the first non-American astronaut on the moon.

As part of our collaboration under the Artemis Program, said Harris.

And as a gesture of friendship Kishida also announced Japan will provide 250 cherry trees for the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
U.S. and Japan show support for Philippines

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The White House and Congress rolled out the red carpet for Japans prime minister this week. His high-profile meetings in Washington and a rare speech at the Capitol were designed to get the attention of China and U.S. lawmakers.

Prime Minister Kishida stressed the alliance between Japan and the U.S. is more important than ever.

The U.S. should not be expected to do it all, said Kishida.

Kishida told Congress Japan is committed to be a strong partner to the U.S. to counter growing aggression from China.

We are now at an inflection point that will define the next stage of human history, he said.

The Japanese leader urged all democracies to help prevent war in the region.

Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow, Kishida said.

The Chinese government continues to threaten Taiwan and has attacked Philippine ships in disputed areas of the South China Sea.

President Biden and Kishida held their first-ever trilateral meeting with the Philippine president to discuss security in the region.

The United Statess defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad, said Biden.

China has been monitoring Kishidas trip to Washington and accused the U.S. and its allies of interfering in its domestic affairs.

During a ceremonial luncheon with Vice President Harris and Secretary of State Blinken the two countries announced theyre launching a new partnership in space.

A Japanese astronaut will join NASAs upcoming lunar missions and become the first non-American astronaut on the moon.

As part of our collaboration under the Artemis Program, said Harris.

And as a gesture of friendship Kishida also announced Japan will provide 250 cherry trees for the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  25-year-old Nicholas Jordan, the suspect arrested in connection to a double homicide at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) on Friday, Feb. 16, appeared in El Paso County Court on Friday, April 12 for a competency hearing, and for an update on new charges after he allegedly assaulted a deputy at the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center (CJC) in March.

Jordan was ruled incompetent to stand trial by the state hospital. Prosecutors have asked for a second evaluation which was granted and is required to be completed within 35 days or by Friday, May 17.

PRIOR REPORTING: Reading of charges against UCCS suspect delayed

The additional charges for the alleged assault are on hold until the competency evaluations are completed.

The hearing also addressed a motion that would allow Jordan to wear civilian clothing instead of a jail uniform during pre-trial hearings and was filed by the defense. The defense cited the media coverage and argued it could impede his clients fair trial rights.

The El Paso County Sheriffs Office (EPSO) objected to the motion due to the prior assault Jordan is accused of that EPSO said increased his security risk and necessitated additional deputies during his court appearances.

EPSOs commander Deborah Mynatt testified to the administrative and safety concerns in having a defendant in civilian clothing when going from the jail to the courthouse. She also mentioned the safety risks if an inmate escapes custody.

If that individual is in plain clothing and they run from the courthouse, there is more risk involved overall versus an inmate whose in a jumpsuit that is running from the courthouse.

When asked why, Mynatt said, Plain clothes are a little bit more unidentifiable in a crowd.

The Judge denied the motion, citing the administrative burdens of additional deputies and the safety concerns of a theoretical escape.

Jordans next court date was scheduled for Friday, May 31.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has suggested that prototypes of the latest laser weapons being developed in the United Kingdom could potentially be provided to Ukraine to bolster its air defence systems. However, this is likely to occur no earlier than a few years from now.

Source: European Pravda, citing The Independent

Details: Shapps suggested that prototypes of the latest DragonFire laser-directed energy weapon (LDEW) system, which were first tested in January 2024, could potentially be provided to Ukraine in the future for application and testing in real-world conditions without waiting for the system's enhancements to be completed to the final version.

Originally, it was planned that DragonFire would begin production in 2032, but now the UK Defence Ministry has stated that they aim to achieve this earlier  by 2027.

Speaking to the media at the military technology research centre in Salisbury, Shapps said that he will explore possibilities to further accelerate the development pace so that it could be deployed in real-world conditions, including in Ukraine.

Quote: "Ive come down to speed up the production of the DragonFire laser system because I think given that theres two big conflicts on, one sea-based, one in Europe, this could have huge ramifications to have a weapon capable particularly of taking down drones," Shapps said.

Shapps noted that he would like to expedite the normally lengthy development-procurement procedures to much shorter terms so that the system could be deployed on ships and potentially on land as quickly as possible for use against combat drones.

"On incoming drones, it doesnt take much imagination to see how that could be helpful in Ukraine for example," the minister said.

"(A new arms procurement process) in place is designed to not wait until we have this at 99.9 per cent perfection before it goes into the field, but get it to sort of 70 per cent and then get it out there and then... develop it from there," Shapps explained.

Asked whether DragonFire could be ready before 2027, he said that he had discussed such possibilities with experts and that the system "didnt have to be 100 per cent perfect in order for Ukrainians perhaps to get their hands on it  2027 is still the date as of this moment".

"But of course Ill look to see what we can do to speed up.  In a more dangerous world, our approach to procurement is shifting. We need to be more urgent, more critical and more global," Shapps emphasised.

Background: The UK government stated that DragonFire will be distinguished by its high speed and accuracy, with its additional advantage being its low cost compared to air defence missiles  a single shot lasting 10 seconds is equivalent in cost to using a standard heater for an hour.

Read also: "The era of peace dividend is over. Moving from a post-war to a pre-war world." Historic speech by UK Defence Secretary

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  The Downtown Business Association wants to stop the trend of smashed windows and plywood apart of downtown businesses by ramping up patrols with Citiguard Security Services.

The DBA got a grant of $50,000 towards the project and some businesses are seeing progress.

Downtown Bakersfield is getting more beautiful these days and The Downtown Business Association wants to keep it that way.

We primarily dealt with low level street crime, homeless issues and transient issues at the business, said Bob Smith, with Citiguard. Anything in that area that disrupts the flow of business.

The DBA got a grant of $50,000 for increased security patrols in 2 key areas. A 4-block radius from 17th Street to 20th Street and Chester Avenue to H Street. Theres also increased patrols on F Street.

We do business checks, we document those with the addresses and the picture of the business, said Smith. That goes to the police department so they know what were doing and how much were doing.

Bob Smith says theres a staff, 21 security officers and 4 patrol cars working 24/7 using non-lethal force. They do up to 1,500 business checks a week. The reports go to the Bakersfield Police Department.

The vandalism and the glass breaks, those are huge, said Smith.

O.J. Simpson, ex-NFL star acquitted in trial of the century, dies: family

Smith says patrols started April 1 and Timeless Furnishings is seeing the impact.

We have seen a difference. Quite significant as a matter of fact and were really happy, actually, said Sharon Martinez with Timeless Furnishings.

Timeless Furnishings has been dealing with vandalism, fear and even human feces on the sidewalk outside the store.

So, we come to work not afraid anymore because nobodys standing by our door or encamped by our door, said Martinez.

Eddie Zepeda had to pay $8,000 out of pocket for smashed windows at his restaurant, My Spot Downtown. Now, the windows are fixed and business is booming.

I think customers or the community in general feels safer walking around, said Zepeda.

From 1 a.m. to 7 a.m., and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., youll see patrols keeping the sound of Bakersfield safe in the heart of the city.

You can really notice a difference, said Zepeda. The streets are safer and cleaner.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
The government has allocated an additional Hr 3.88 billion (almost $100 million) for the construction of fortifications, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on April 12.

Around Hr 1.7 billion ($43 million) will be devoted to building up defenses in Kharkiv Oblast and Hr 1.5 billion ($38 million) to Sumy Oblast. Additional funds will also be provided to Donetsk, Kherson, and Mykolaiv oblasts, Shmyhal said.

The Ukrainian authorities have faced criticism for slow progress on fortifying defensive lines. In March, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine was building 2,000 kilometers of fortifications across three lines of defense, adding that the "task is massive, but the pace is good."

The Ukrainian government has already allocated Hr 20 billion ($512 million) for building fortifications in 2024, Shymhal said in January.

Earlier this month, the government allocated an additional Hr 5.6 billion ($143 million) to fortify Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Mykolaiv, and Sumy oblasts.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that Ukrainian troops are building fortifications in expectation of a Russian offensive in the spring, though there are concerns that the progress is not fast enough.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with CBS News that a new major Russian offensive may come at the end of May or in June.

Read also: Ukraine finally moves to fortify front line, but could it be too little too late?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian soldiers and police officers who serve directly at the contact line of the front will receive an additional payment of Hr 70,000 ($1,785) per month, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced on April 12.

Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, adopted the resolution on additional payments on April 11.

The personnel serving at the"zero line" will get the additional financial reward together with a monthly salary of Hr 20-25,000 ($510-637) and combat payments of Hr 100,000 ($2,550).

Shmyhal said that a one-time financial reward accrues every 30 days for conducting combat missions at the contact line.

Roman Kostenko, a secretary at the Parliamentary National Security Committee, wrote on Facebook on April 6 that the provision for additional payment was previously included in the mobilization bill. However, it was excluded at the last moment before the bill's approval.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us

After an initial, contentious version of the mobilization bill was withdrawn in January, a new, updated version passed the first reading on Feb. 7. Lawmakers have proposed 4,294 amendments to the bill since then.

On April 11, Ukraine's parliament passed another updated version of the bill, which included the right of disabled soldiers and those who have returned from captivity to discharge themselves and the introduction of mandatory medical commission checks for those who previously held the "partially eligible" status, among other key points.

President Volodymyr Zelensky also signed three separate laws on mobilization in early April: on the lowering of the conscription age to 25, the introduction of an electronic register for conscripts, and the canceling of the "partially eligible" status.

Read also: Opinion: Ukraine may have no choice but to lower its fighting age

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
It's up to Ukraine to determine its own ways of defending itself, French and Canadian leaders say

Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and French Premier Gabriel Attal have stated that their countries condemn Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine and remain "firmly committed" to the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, including its territorial waters.

Source: European Pravda, citing Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and French PM Gabriel Attal

Details: The prime ministers stressed that they would continue to provide Ukraine with financial, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support for as long as needed.

"We believe that it is up to Ukraine to decide how to defend itself and protect its people. Canada and France will continue its support bilaterally and through all the international organisations of which they are members," the statement said.

Ottawa and Paris also pledged to continue their efforts within the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

Furthermore, they reaffirmed their long-term support for Ukraine within the Joint Declaration of the G7 countries in support of Ukraine and relevant bilateral agreements recently adopted in 2024.

"Canada and France are determined to help with the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine by responding to immediate humanitarian needs, supporting reform and anti-corruption efforts, and strengthening trade investment in Ukraine with a view to fostering private-sector participation," summarised the prime ministers of both countries.

Background:

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna believes that Ukraine's attacks on Russian oil refineries are justified since they help curb Russia's revenues and make it harder for Russia to wage war.

Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics stated that Ukraine has every right to strike Russian oil refineries after the latest Russian attack on Ukraine.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg believes that Ukraine has the right to strike "legitimate military targets" outside its borders.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has recently criticised the Ukrainian strikes on the refineries, questioning their impact on the war.

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Dmytro Kuleba, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, has stated that "active negotiations" with Ukraines allies on supplying the country with two batteries for the Patriot air defence systems and one for the SAMP/T systems are ongoing.

Source: Kuleba in an interview on air of the joint 24/7 newscast on the evening of 12 April, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Speaking about the negotiations on strengthening the Ukrainian air defence, Kuleba indicated that the decision concerning the supply of the Patriot batteries depends on the US "because it is an American [air defence] system".

"We know for sure the location of everything. At the moment active negotiations concerning two batteries of the Patriot air defence systems and one of the SAMP/T systems are ongoing. Basically, if the countries where these systems are located were ready to supply us with them, then it would take a week for us to receive them," he explained.

SAMP/T-MAMBA is the first long-range anti-missile system in Europe, able to destroy enemy aircraft at a distance from 3 to 100 km and ballistic missiles at a distance from 3 to 25 km, the height of attack is up to 25 km.

Ukraine received a battery of SAMP/T in 2023.

Background: Earlier Kuleba listed five priorities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine for 2024 in his speech at the Wartime Diplomacy Forum. Supplying Ukraine with air defence systems was first on the list.

Earlier Kuleba urged his French counterpart to immediately provide air defence systems for Ukraine and stated that Ukraine would not have lost the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant (TPP) near Kyiv if it had enough Patriot air defence systems.

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Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Elemental Altus Royalties fair value estimate is CA$2.29

Elemental Altus Royalties' CA$1.19 share price signals that it might be 48% undervalued

The US$1.90 analyst price target for ELE is 17% less than our estimate of fair value

Does the April share price for Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. (CVE:ELE) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

View our latest analysis for Elemental Altus Royalties

The Model

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. 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, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$11.9m US$14.0m US$16.3m US$18.1m US$19.5m US$20.7m US$21.7m US$22.6m US$23.4m US$24.1m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x2 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 10.52% Est @ 7.96% Est @ 6.17% Est @ 4.91% Est @ 4.04% Est @ 3.42% Est @ 2.99% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 7.7% US$11.0 US$12.1 US$13.1 US$13.4 US$13.4 US$13.2 US$12.9 US$12.4 US$11.9 US$11.4

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$125m

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.0%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.7%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$24m (1 + 2.0%)  (7.7% 2.0%) = US$427m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$427m ( 1 + 7.7%)10= US$203m

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$328m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of CA$1.2, the company appears quite good value at a 48% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Elemental Altus Royalties 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 7.7%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.249. 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 Elemental Altus Royalties

Strength

Net debt to equity ratio below 40%.

Weakness

Shareholders have been diluted in the past year.

Opportunity

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Has less than 3 years of cash runway based on current free cash flow.

Not expected to become profitable over the next 3 years.

Next Steps:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. 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. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For Elemental Altus Royalties, we've put together three additional elements you should assess:

Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 2 warning signs for Elemental Altus Royalties you should be aware of, and 1 of them is significant. Future Earnings: How does ELE'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 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 Canadian 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.
Ukraine war latest: Ukrainians should prepare for possible power outages, energy minister says

Key developments on April 12:

Energy minister says Ukraine's energy system stable, urges citizens to prepare for 'any scenarios'

Bloomberg: Ukrainian army collapse 'cannot be ruled out,' US official says

Netherlands allocates additional $1.5 billion in aid for Ukraine

Ukraine additionally allocates close to $100 million for fortifications

Military intelligence: Russia sending units from Far East to replenish losses in Ukraine

Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said on April 12 that Ukrainians should be prepared for possible power outages in the spring or summer amid ongoing Russian attacks against energy infrastructure.

Moscow has recently intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure, destroying several thermal power plants across the country, including the Trypillia plant, the main electricity supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts.

In March, attacks reportedly damaged or completely destroyed 80% of the thermal generating capacity of DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company.

Ukraine's energy system is currently undergoing the largest-scale series of attacks by Russia, according to Halushchenko. Over the past three months, Russia has reportedly conducted around 30,000 strikes on Ukrainian territory.

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Ukraine Weekly By Olga Rudenko

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Nevertheless, Ukraine's energy system "is working steadily" despite a series of Russian attacks, the minister said on national television.

A possible shortage of power capacity depends on the impact of further Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy system, according to Halushchenko.

When asked about possible blackouts in the autumn of 2024, Halushchenko answered that it was worth buying generators and power banks.

"Buy them (generators and power banks), get ready. But we will do everything we can to ensure that you do not need them," Halushchenko said.

Back in early October 2022, Russia launched a months-long series of missile and drone attacks against Ukraines energy infrastructure, leading to blackouts amid freezing temperatures and reportedly damaging half of the countrys energy system.

Bloomberg: Ukrainian army collapse 'cannot be ruled out,' US official says

The possibility of Ukraine's army collapse "cannot be ruled out" and Ukraine is at its "most fragile moment in over two years of war," according to U.S. officials, Bloomberg reported on April 11.

Ukraine's position on the battlefield has been weakened in recent months by a dire shortage of ammunition, exacerbated by an ongoing impasse in Congress over U.S. aid to Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with CBS News that a new major Russian offensive may come at the end of May or in June.

According to the U.S. official, who spoke to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity, the U.S. "doesn't see any signs of an imminent breakthrough by Russian forces."

Ukraine is, however, at its "most fragile moment in over two years of war, according to Western officials with knowledge of the situation," Bloomberg said.

Meanwhile, Russia has largely replaced its heavy battlefield losses in Ukraine, and at a much faster pace than anticipated, U.S. General Christopher Cavoli warned on April 11.

"Russia is reconstituting that force far faster than our initial estimates suggested," Cavoli wrote in a statement to Congress. "The army is actually now larger  by 15 percent  than it was when it invaded Ukraine."

A key risk is a collapse of Ukraine's defenses, which would give Russia an "opening to make a major advance for the first time since the initial stages of the conflict," Bloomberg said, citing talks with multiple officials.

Read also: The Counteroffensive: Sleep deprivation is Russias silent torture weapon

Netherlands allocates additional $1.5 billion in aid for Ukraine

The Netherlands has allocated an additional one billion euros ($1.1 billion) in military aid and 400 million euros ($425 million) for reconstruction, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on April 12 after a phone call with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

Under Rutte, the Netherlands has taken a proactive role in supporting Ukraine, spearheading the fighter jet coalition and pledging to deliver 24 F-16 jets to Ukraine.

Zelensky said that the new aid batch was provided in the framework of the 10-year bilateral security agreement between the states, signed on March 1 in Kharkiv.

"Thank you to Mark, thank you to the Dutch people! This is an exemplary case of supporting Ukraine," the president wrote on his Telegram channel.

On the call, the parties discussed further Ukrainian-Dutch cooperation in speeding up the delivery of artillery shells, ammunition, and air defense by allies to Ukraine, as well as in the upcoming global peace summit, the next edition of which Switzerland will host in June.

Zelensky also invited the Netherlands to the summit and thanked it for the "efficient" Restoring Justice for Ukraine conference held on April 2 in The Hague.

The Dutch broadcaster RTL news earlier reported on April 11 that the Netherlands would allocate an additional 400 million euros ($425 million) to Ukraine, increasing its total pledge for 2024 to more than 2.4 billion euros ($2.5 billion).

Amsterdam also recently pledged 10 million euros ($10.8 million) to help Ukraine investigate Russian war crimes. New financial assistance was announced during the Restoring Justice for Ukraine event in early April.

Read also: Bloomberg: EU set to approve Ukrainian reform plan in May, unlocking billions in aid

Ukraine allocates close to $100 million for fortifications

The government has allocated an additional Hr 3.88 billion (almost $100 million) for the construction of fortifications, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on April 12.

Around Hr 1.7 billion ($43 million) will be devoted to building up defenses in Kharkiv Oblast and Hr 1.5 billion ($38 million) to Sumy Oblast. Additional funds will also be provided to Donetsk, Kherson, and Mykolaiv oblasts, Shmyhal said.

The Ukrainian authorities have faced criticism for slow progress on fortifying defensive lines. In March, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine was building 2,000 kilometers of fortifications across three lines of defense, adding that the "task is massive, but the pace is good."

The Ukrainian government has already allocated Hr 20 billion ($512 million) for building fortifications in 2024, Shymhal said in January.

Earlier this month, the government allocated an additional Hr 5.6 billion ($143 million) to fortify Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Mykolaiv, and Sumy oblasts.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that Ukrainian troops are building fortifications in expectation of a Russian offensive in the spring, though there are concerns that the progress is not fast enough.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with CBS News that a new major Russian offensive may come at the end of May or in June.

Read also: UK Defense Ministry: Ukraine increasing fortifications along the front line

Military intelligence: Russia sending units from Far East to replenish losses in Ukraine

Russia is sending troops from the far eastern military units, including its Pacific Fleet, to replenish personnel losses in Ukraine, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) said on April 12.

Russia has lost 451,730 troops fighting in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022, according to the April 12 update from Ukraine's General Staff. The figure indicates the number of Russian fighters who have been killed or injured and are unable to return to active duty.

The BBC's Russian service, along with the Russian independent media outlet Mediazona, confirmed the identities of more than 50,000 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine earlier in April. The true death toll is thought to be much higher.

Moscow is now deploying the personnel of the Pacific Fleet and the 11th Army of the Air Force to replenish its losses in Ukraine, as well as to staff new military units, HUR said.



The Pacific Fleet and 11th Army of the Air Force "were not previously directly involved in hostilities against Ukraine," according to HUR.

The commander of the Pacific Fleet has reportedly stopped rotations to Syria and instead is sending around 2,000 personnel from Russia's Far East to Ukraine.

Another 400 soldiers from the 11th Army will "patch up the holes of the 155th and 40th brigades of the Russian marines, which are fighting against Ukraine and are undermanned due to huge losses," HUR said.

The soldiers are currently stationed in the city of Khabarovsk, which lies around 6,500 kilometers from Ukraine on Russia's border with China.

According to HUR, some personnel from the far eastern military units "will join the new motorized rifle brigade of the aggressor state, which is being formed in Voronezh," a city located less than 200 kilometers from the border with Ukraine.

U.S. General Christopher Cavoli said on April 11 that Russia has largely replaced its heavy battlefield losses in Ukraine, and at a much faster pace than anticipated.

"Russia is reconstituting that force far faster than our initial estimates suggested," Cavoli wrote in a statement to Congress. "The army is actually now larger  by 15 percent  than it was when it invaded Ukraine."

Russia's military has bolstered its numbers through a partial mobilization conducted in the fall of 2022, which many believe has continued in a more concealed manner since.

It has also brought prisoners, migrants, and foreign nationals into its ranks.

Read also: Id be a king in Somalia with this money: Foreign POWs on being lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine

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Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers establishes US$1,794 payment for soldiers per every 30 days in combat zone

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a resolution authorising the payment of a one-time remuneration of UAH 70,000 (US$1,794) to the personnel performing military operations on the front lines, enemy territory, and temporarily occupied territory for a total of 30 days.

Source: a source in Ukraines Cabinet of Ministers, in a comment to Ukrainska Pravda

Details: The Cabinet of Ministers amended the resolution titled The issue of certain payments to military personnel, privates and commanders, police officers, and their families during martial law.

Background:

The Verkhovna Rada (the Ukrainian Parliament)voted for a resolution obliging the government to develop a mechanism for an additional one-time payment of UAH 70,000 (US$1,794) to soldiers performing combat tasks at the forefront, for every 30 days at the line of contact, Russian territory, and temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine.

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Ukraine's former defence minister Reznikov becomes head of Security and Defence Programmes in Institute of Future

Oleksii Reznikov, the former minister of defence of Ukraine, has become the new director of the Security and Defence Programmes in the Institute of the Future.

Source: Ihor Liski, co-founder of the Ukrainian Institute of the Future, on Facebook

Details: Liski published a group photo of himself with Reznikov and Anatolii Amelin, another co-founder of the Security and Defence Programmes.

Quote: "At the moment this is the most topical direction, and we firmly believe that it is Oleksii Reznikov who will be able to give a fresh impetus in the defence and security sector of our country. We are waiting for your ideas, thoughts and cooperation. We promise a new level of analytics, content and discourse."

Background: On 5 September 2023 the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) dismissed Oleksii Reznikov from the position of minister of defence and replaced him with Rustem Umierov, the former head of the State Property Fund of Ukraine, on 6 September.

In January it was revealed that Reznikov had renewed his right to practise law.

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Ukraine's General Staff reports on frontline rotation: "Thousands of soldiers sent to military units"

The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces assures that the frontline military rotation process continues, with thousands of servicemen released during the audit being assigned to military units.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Quote: "The units that carried out tasks in the combat zone from the start of the full-scale invasion are undergoing rotation according to the plan.

Although the Russian occupiers are still applying pressure in many areas, there are now opportunities to send brigades on alternate rest periods.

Concurrently, a series of actions are being conducted to fortify the brigades that are still engaged in frontline combat."

Details: The General Staff claims that such a decision was made after considering the number of certain units that do not participate in hostilities.

It is worth noting that thousands of released troops were assigned to military units.

"This process will continue," the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces adds.

Background: Ukrainian President's Office stated that Ukraines leadership expects Oleksandr Syrsky, the newly-appointed chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, to conduct an "audit" of soldiers, because out of the 1 million of mobilised soldiers only 300,000 persons participated in combat.

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Major General Andrii Kovalchuk, Commander of Operational Command Pivden (South), has announced his resignation and will transition to training military personnel.

Source: Kovalchuk on Facebook

Details: The commander thanked the military for the two and a half years of service.

Quote: "We liberated a portion of Odesa Oblast from the occupiers, the Zmiinyi Island, as well as the majority of Ukraine's territorial sea, Mykolaiv and Kherson oblasts on the right bank of Dnipro. We carried out combat missions, repelling daring enemy troops, knocking back and sinking enemy ships, and creating unprecedented historical facts of the new era of our Armed Forces."

Details: Kovalchuk also stated that he will remain in the army and continue to educate young officers.

Quote: "With faith in us and our forces, I remain a part of the army family, and in the education of young officers, I will apply the same principles and requirements that I have always had and continue to have for myself and those I lead: honour, decency, patriotism, responsibility, courage, and good judgement  from this a true commander emerges, capable of being a role model and leading his team by example."

Updated: The Odesa Military Academy reported that Kovalchuk has become its new head.

Quote: "The appointment of Major General Andrii Kovalchuk to the position of the head of the Odesa Military Academy is not only an important event for the Academy itself but for the whole country as well. His exceptional experience in warfare, his courage and devotion will take the education process and the training of future officers to a new level. Kovalchuk not only defended our country in the combat zone but also tested himself in challenging peacekeeping missions. Under his guidance, the academy will not only become a place of learning but also the centre of development of military experience and culture."

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The Ukrainian Security Service conducted searches on Archpriest Mykola Danylevych, Deputy Head of the Synodal Department of External Church Relations of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP).

Source: a Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) source in a comment to Ukrainska Pravda

Details: The investigation has been underway since the morning of 12 April.

Danylevych was part of a delegation that, in 2017, persuaded Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew not to give Tomos (the decree that officially recognised and established the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and granted it autocephaly) to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, along with former MP Vadym Novynskyi.

According to the source, the archpriest was also marked by his support for the "Russian world" (the general idea of Russian Orthodoxy's superiority in terms of culture, language, and so on, widely promoted by pro-Kremlin figures) and his justification of the Russian aggression.

Ukrainska Pravda also requested an official comment from the SSU.

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Ukraine's Security Service serves notice of suspicion on archpriest of Russia-connected church after searches

The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has served a notice of suspicion of justifying Russia's war against Ukraine and inciting religious hatred on Archpriest Mykola Danylevych, deputy head of the Synodal Department for External Church Relations of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP).

Source: SSU press service, Ukrainska Pravda

Details: The SSU report does not specify the name of the suspect, but Ukrainska Pravda has been informed that it likely is Danylevych, whose house was searched on 12 April.

The SSU reported that the cleric used his own Telegram channel to spread pro-Kremlin narratives.

Quote: "The operational data suggests that the priest supervised an extensive network of eparchies of the UOC-MP abroad. These institutions spread Russian propaganda narratives under the guise of allegedly providing spiritual care to Ukrainian refugees.

In this way, the offender tried to influence the minds of Ukrainians abroad and discredit our country in the international arena.

The SSU-initiated investigation confirmed the facts of his information and subversive activities against our state."

Details: The SSU notes that during the searches at the suspects place of residence, they found a certificate of compulsory pension insurance of the Russian Federation and documents confirming his studies at the diplomatic academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

It is stated that on the basis of the collected evidence, the cleric was notified of suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

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Joint-Stock Company Energy Company of Ukraine (ECU) has doubled its daily electricity imports from the EU on average since mid-March to offset losses in Ukraine's power grid.

Source: press service of the ECU

Details: It is noted that the state-owned energy trader is continuing to import electricity from Slovakia and Romania and began importing electricity from Hungary in March.

At present, the company is the second-largest importer of electricity to Ukraine.

"Ukraine, jointly with the EU, has significantly increased its technical and organisational capabilities for electricity imports over the past two years, which now plays a crucial role in the stable energy supply to consumers.

Given the continuing large-scale attacks on energy assets, the Ukrainian government continues to actively cooperate with European partners to obtain additional import opportunities," said Vitalii Butenko, CEO of the ECU.

Background: Thanks to the synchronisation of the Ukrainian power grid with the ENTSO-E Continental Europe power grid, Ukraine was able to receive 27,000 MWh of emergency assistance and attract 285,000 MWh of imports as support during the winter.

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By Mike Scarcella

(Reuters) -Fortnite video game maker Epic Games has urged a federal judge in California to force Google to open up its Play Store to greater competition after a jury found the U.S. tech giant had abused its power as a gatekeeper for apps on the Android mobile platform.

Epic made its proposal in a court filing on Thursday to U.S. District Judge James Donato in San Francisco, seeking in part to require Google Play Store to allow users more freedom in how they download apps and to limit Google's ability to make agreements with device makers to restrict preloading of competing app stores.

Epic said in a statement on Friday it should be allowed to bring its Epic Games Store to Android "without delays and barriers." The company also said consumers and developers must have greater control over "how they make and offer in-app purchases, free from anticompetitive fees and restrictions."

Responding to Epic, Google in a statement on Friday said the court filing "shows again that [Epic] simply wants the benefits of Google Play without having to pay for it." Google said "Android is an open mobile platform that faces fierce competition" from Apple and other competitors.

Donato presided over a blockbuster antitrust trial that ended in a jury verdict against Alphabet-owned Google in December.

Donato is not bound to grant Epic's proposal, and a hard fight is likely before any permanent order on Google is issued. But the new filing sets up the next key test of Google's ability to impose controls on app developers and consumers.

The jury in December said Google unlawfully impeded developers' ability to freely distribute their apps outside of Googles Play Store and kept an overly tight grip on payments for transactions within apps. Google imposes an industry standard 30% commission on many apps and in-app purchases.

Google has defended its app store practices and denied any wrongdoing. The company has a May 3 deadline to respond to Epics proposal. Epics lawsuit did not demand monetary damages.

Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has said Google's December settlement did not go far enough to restore Play Store competition.

North Carolina-based Epic Games is a privately held company, in which China's Tencent owns a 40% stake and Walt Disney owns a stake of about 9% as of February.

Google separately in December agreed to pay $700 million to resolve state and consumer allegations over its Play Store restrictions.

The company said then it was expanding the ability of app and game developers to provide consumers an alternative billing option for in-app purchases. Google said it had piloted "choice billing" in the U.S. for more than a year.

Story continues

Google has said it will appeal the December antitrust jury verdict, and it can separately challenge any reforms ordered by Donato, which could stretch the case for years.

A similar case Epic lodged against Apple in 2020, challenging its grip on its App Store, is still being fought after a non-jury trial and appeals.

(Reporting by Mike Scarcella in Washington and Mrinmay Dey in Bengaluru; Editing by Sharon Singleton, Susan Fenton and David Bario)
Ukrainian diplomacy has several priorities, the completion of which is critical for everyone in the Foreign Ministry and embassies abroad.

Source: Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in a speech at the Wartime Diplomacy Forum, held by Ukrainian Prism, an NGO of foreign policy experts in Kyiv

Details: Kuleba explained that defining and meeting those priorities is critical because they shall receive the majority of efforts, resulting in better outcomes.

The first priority is to provide air defence to Ukraine. "And not just air defence, but Patriots and SAMP-Ts. First and foremost, Patriots, there are many of these in the world," he stated.

Kuleba insisted that he does not accept the answer about the impossibility of their supply: "The we are working on it response is inappropriate. I'm only interested in knowing how many installations/batteries there will be and when."

The second priority is to ensure the success of Ukraine's Peace Summit, which is set for mid-June.

The third priority is the movement towards European Union and NATO membership.

"Regarding the EU, it is necessary to approve the negotiation framework and hold an intergovernmental conference, after which the work of the Foreign Ministry will end and be transferred to [...] negotiators," Kuleba explained, expressing confidence that this issue will become "diplomatic" again at the stage of the accession decision.

"According to NATO, we are preparing for the summit. Our partners are eager to reach an agreement before the summit, but it will be difficult," the minister added, declining to elaborate on Ukraine's expectations.

The fourth priority is Latin America.

The fifth priority is for Ukrainians residing abroad. "I don't think that the majority of those who leave will return. I believe that if nothing is done, they will lose their Ukrainian identity. Assimilation will occur quickly," Dmytro Kuleba said.

Ukraine's partners have recently requested the supply of air defence systems to Ukraine. Specifically, the head of the German Foreign Ministry stated that the Russian Federation will raze Kharkiv to the ground due to Ukraines forces lacking facilities and weapons.

On Thursday 11 April, Kuleba urged the French Foreign Minister to take immediate action to supply air defence to Ukraine, claiming that it was the lack of modern air defence systems that allowed the Russians to destroy the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant (TPP) near Kyiv.

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Dmytro Kuleba, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, has discussed the search for air defence systems for Ukraine with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

Source: European Pravda, citing Kuleba on Twitter (X)

Details: Kuleba said he had discussed specific steps on how Italy, which holds the G7 presidency, can take an active part in the search for air defence systems and make coordinated decisions on their supply to Ukraine.

He thanked his Italian counterpart for his consistent support of Ukraine.

Previously:

Kuleba, in a speech at the Wartime Diplomacy Forum, identified five priorities for Ukraine's Foreign Ministry in 2024, and the first was the supply of air defence systems to Ukraine.

Also on Thursday, Kuleba called on the French foreign minister to take immediate action to supply air defence systems to Ukraine and said that Ukraine would not have lost the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant (TPP) near Kyiv if it had enough Patriot air defence systems.

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The Cabinet of Ministers has made changes to the state budget subsidy for the provision of safe conditions in secondary schools.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said Kharkiv, Dnipro and Zaporizhzhia oblasts would receive the most funds.

A total of UAH 2.5 billion hryvnias (about US$63.4 million) has been allocated for the construction of shelters in schools.

The focus is on frontline and border oblasts.

Background: Ukraine has changed the mechanism by which funding is allocated for the construction of shelters in schools. From now on, funds will be distributed to districts using a points system via the DREAM platform.

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Ukrainian Railways starts construction of European-gauge railway line from Uzhhorod to EU border

Ukrzaliznytsia (Ukrainian Railways) has begun construction of a European-gauge railway line from Chop on the EU border to Uzhhorod, the administrative centre of Zakarpattia Oblast. The project is part of the strategic rail infrastructure development programme for Ukraine's integration into the EU.

Source: Ukrzaliznytsia press service

"We have launched the project, we are now completing the preparatory work, and the main construction phase will begin in May," Ukrzaliznytsia CEO Yevhen Liashchenko said.

The construction project includes:

Construction of 22 km of European-standard railway track

Reconstruction of artificial structures, facilities and engineering support networks

Equipping the track with two-way semi-automatic interlocking and microprocessor-based dispatching devices.

The project will make it possible to launch direct passenger routes on the European-gauge line from Uzhhorod to European countries, as well as providing transfers from trains from all regions of Ukraine for onward travel in Europe.

Denys Shmyhal, Prime Minister of Ukraine, said the European-gauge Chop-Uzhhorod railway line will make direct rail connections possible between Uzhhorod and Vienna, Bratislava, Kosice, Budapest, Prague, Bucharest, Dresden and Belgrade.

Background:

Ukrzaliznytsia plans to introduce 18 new container routes across Europe in September 2024.

Tickets for train No. 143/146 (Chop-Budapest-Vienna) became available on the Ukrzaliznytsia app on 4 April.

On 28 March, a new overnight international route between Prague and Chop was launched, connecting Chop with the Czech capital and Kosice, Slovakia.

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A petition demanding the suspension of the right of Russian prisoners of war (POWs) to make telephone calls has received the required number of votes. Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers must now consider it.

Source: petition on the official website of Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers

Details: The author of the petition, Inna Turova, stated that relatives of Ukrainian defenders who are currently held in various POW camps in Russia have no information about their health or whereabouts.

"Despite many months of requests and demands, we cannot hear the voice of our defenders to make sure they are really alive. Only a few of us have been blessed with such happiness. We write letters to our husbands, sons and brothers, but we don't even know if they reach them. The ICRC is as silent about this as the Russians are."

At the same time, the author of the petition noted that Russian soldiers who were captured had the opportunity to write and call their relatives for a long time.

Quote: "Our enemies who have been captured have long since [had the opportunity] to write and call their families. And the relatives of our enemies live in peace, knowing about the safe fate of those who came to kill us. They know that Ukraine has enshrined in a government document the right of Russian prisoners of war to have telephone conversations, although this is absolutely not envisaged by the 1949 Geneva Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War, which guarantees only correspondence."

Details: The signatories believe that the treatment of Russian POWS "must have reasonable limits". Therefore, they demand that the right of Russian POWs to make telephone calls be suspended until Russia provides such an opportunity for Ukrainian defenders.

"The further possibility for enemy POWs to contact their relatives should depend on the Russian policy towards our defenders."

The petition has gained over 25,000 votes since 22 March. The Cabinet of Ministers must now consider it and provide a response.

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Ukrainska Pravda obtains photos of wreckage from advanced Kh-69 missile Russia used to strike Trypillia power plant  photo

Wreckage from advanced Kh-69 missile Russia used to strike Trypillia power plant. Photo provided by Ukrainska Pravdas source

Wreckage found in Kyiv Oblast indicates that Russia used its new Kh-69 cruise missiles to strike the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant (TPP) on 11 April.

Source: Ukrainska Pravda sources in law enforcement agencies

Details: Ukrainska Pravda has obtained photographs of the wreckage.

Early reports indicate that based on markings found on the missile wreckage, it has been identified as one of the new modifications of the Kh-59 missile, which the Russians themselves refer to as the Kh-69.

Wreckage from advanced Kh-69 missile Russia used to strike Trypillia power plant

Photo provided by Ukrainska Pravdas source

Wreckage from advanced Kh-69 missile Russia used to strike Trypillia power plant

Photo provided by Ukrainska Pravdas source

Wreckage from advanced Kh-69 missile Russia used to strike Trypillia power plant

Photo provided by Ukrainska Pravdas source

Background:

Defense Express reported, citing sources, that the Russians likely employed their new Kh-69 cruise missiles during the strike on the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant (TPP), enabling them to utterly destroy the plant.

Illia Yevlash, Head of the Public Relations Service of Ukraine's Air Force, said Patriot systems would be an effective countermeasure, as they have successfully dealt with more complex types of Russian missiles such as Zircons and Kinzhals. Ukraine desperately needs to reinforce its air defence systems with these missile defence systems and the corresponding ammunition.

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The escalation in Russia's war against Ukraine is a "direct threat to regional stability and international security" and an "existential threat to the people of Ukraine," U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca said on April 11 at a Security Council session.

Russia has recently intensified its attacks against Ukraine, hitting both residential areas and energy infrastructure. A U.N. monitoring mission recorded a 20% increase in civilian casualties in March compared to February.

"Since our last briefing to this Council almost a month ago, Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and towns have become a daily destructive pattern. This includes intense and systematic targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure across the country," Jenca said.

"We are appalled by the increase in civilian casualties as a result of these relentless attacks."

Jenca noted that in March alone, 57 children were killed or wounded, doubling the February numbers. Since February 2022, the U.N. has recorded 10,810 civilians killed, including 600 children, and 20,556 civilians injured, among which 1,357 were children.

The U.N. official denounced Russia's attacks as "unacceptable" and called for "lasting and comprehensive peace in Ukraine, in line with the (U.N.) Charter, international law and resolutions of the General Assembly, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine."

Jenca also appealed to Russia to grant full access to U.N. monitoring missions in the occupied territories of Ukraine.

Finally, the official noted that hostilities are spreading outside of Ukraine's borders "with regular cross-border strikes into the Russian Federation."

Recent months saw a campaign of drone strikes targeting Russian oil refineries and industrial facilities. In March, anti-Kremlin Russian militias carried out raids from Ukraine into Russia's border regions of Kursk and Belgorod.

Read also: Opinion: Defeatists will be on the wrong side of history

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
UN speaks of "existential threat to the people of Ukraine"

UN Deputy Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca said on 11 April that the escalation of the war in Ukraine "is a direct threat to regional stability and international security" and voiced an "existential threat to the people of Ukraine."

Source: Voice of America with reference to the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs

Details: Jenca said that Russia's invasion of Ukraine, launched in flagrant violation of the UN Charter and international law, continues to inflict great damage on the people of Ukraine.

And Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities over the past month have become a "daily destructive pattern", including intense and systematic targeting of Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Jenca gave the death toll for March as at least 126 civilians and said that 478 more were wounded, "a 20 per cent increase compared with the previous month."

In March alone, at least 57 children were killed or injured. In the same month, 12 medical facilities and 32 educational institutions were destroyed or damaged.

Since February 2022, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has recorded that 10,810 civilians, including 600 children, were killed and 20,556 civilians, including 1,357 children, were injured.

Quote: "This is unacceptable. Attacks on civilians and on civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international law. They must cease immediately, and we continue to condemn them, wherever they occur."

More details: Jenca noted that "regular cross-border strikes into the Russian Federation" continue as well.

Jenca said that the UN continues to call on Russia to provide access to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and independent observers to the occupied territories of Ukraine.

At the same time, Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said that Ukraine is currently experiencing the worst attacks since the beginning of this war.

Wosornu informed the UN that a total of 10 million people across the country have lost their homes.

More than 14.6 million people  about 40% of Ukraine's population  are in need of humanitarian assistance, 56% of them are women and girls, she added.

She expressed gratitude to donors for the US$541 million and stressed that this is currently only 17% of the US$3.1 billion needed for Ukraine in 2024.

Wosornu called on the Security Council to prevent this war from continuing unimpeded and indefinitely. As the war continues, she emphasised the need to respect the laws of war, which Russia is currently flagrantly violating on a daily basis.

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Key Insights

B.I.G. Industries Berhad's estimated fair value is RM0.68 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of RM0.70 suggests B.I.G. Industries Berhad is potentially trading close to its fair value

When compared to theindustry average discount of -77%, B.I.G. Industries Berhad's competitors seem to be trading at a greater premium to fair value

How far off is B.I.G. Industries Berhad (KLSE:BIG) 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. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

Check out our latest analysis for B.I.G. Industries Berhad

The Model

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. 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:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM2.44m RM2.66m RM2.84m RM3.02m RM3.18m RM3.33m RM3.47m RM3.62m RM3.76m RM3.90m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ 10.83% Est @ 8.64% Est @ 7.11% Est @ 6.04% Est @ 5.29% Est @ 4.76% Est @ 4.40% Est @ 4.14% Est @ 3.96% Est @ 3.83% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 10.0% RM2.2 RM2.2 RM2.1 RM2.1 RM2.0 RM1.9 RM1.8 RM1.7 RM1.6 RM1.5

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM19m

Story continues

We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 3.5%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 10.0%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM3.9m (1 + 3.5%)  (10.0% 3.5%) = RM63m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM63m ( 1 + 10.0%)10= RM24m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is RM43m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM0.7, 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.

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. 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 B.I.G. Industries Berhad 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 10.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.015. 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.

Looking Ahead:

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. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. 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 B.I.G. Industries Berhad, there are three relevant items you should look at:

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian 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.
MANHATTAN (KSNT)  A house is considered a total loss after a grass fire got out of control near the Little Apple earlier this month.

Around 7 p.m. on April 5, the Manhattan Fire Department (MFD) responded to reports of a fire in the 200 block of Waterbridge Road. When crews arrived, they found a fire had gotten out of control and ignited an unoccupied house nearby.

Fire crews couldnt reach the fire because of steep terrain and narrow dirt roads. The Riley County Fire Department #1 and MFD worked together to put out the grass fire but the home couldnt be saved.

Fire crews were dispatched to reports of a structure fire and out-of-control grass fire near the City of Manhattan on the evening of Friday, April 5.Photo provided courtesy of the City of Manhattan.

Fire crews were dispatched to reports of a structure fire and out-of-control grass fire near the City of Manhattan on the evening of Friday, April 5. Photo provided courtesy of the City of Manhattan.

KSNT Pothole map compared to early 2024

The fire destroyed the home along with vehicles and equipment in a nearby garage. In total, this amounts to an estimated $700,000 in damages.

Anyone performing outdoor burning is required to follow procedures, including notifying emergency personnel before the fire is started and after it is extinguished, said Russel Stukey, Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director at Riley County. When fire danger is high, outdoor burning is not allowed, even for permit holders.

The State Fire Marshal and Riley County Police Department are currently investigating the incident.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Antoinette Charles, a fourth-year medical student at the University of North Carolina and campus advocate for Black maternal health, is using her voice to shed light on the racial health disparities among African Americans, especially for millennial and Gen Z Black women, and what is at stack for this years presidential election as it relates to Black maternal health.

Charles recently completed her master of public health program at UNC, with a focus on public policy. As an aspiring surgeon, she is committed to addressing healthcare disparities among vulnerable populations and vows to serve her community by ensuring quality care for all individuals. Charles chose her field of study to understand critical issues, develop interventions, and advocate for equitable healthcare access in the US.

As a medical student and public health graduate, Charles believes its vital for physicians to shape policies for better community care. She considers it her duty to focus on data regarding public policy changes and their impact on Americans health.

In the United States, Black women are three times more likely to die due to pregnancy-related complications than White women. Following the overturning of Dobbs v. Jackson, weve witnessed implications that exacerbate existing disparities in access to reproductive healthcare, Charles told Blavity in a recent interview. The recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling on frozen embryos has further hindered access to crucial services like In vitro fertilization, which is vital for enhancing the chances of successful pregnancy. Moreover, the closure of womens health clinics due to funding losses has only exacerbated these challenges. It is crucial to recognize the strides made by the Biden-Harris Administration in defending access to emergency medical care, enhancing access to contraception, and championing reproductive freedom.

On Wednesday, President Joe Biden signed a proclamation in light of this years Black Maternal Health Week, addressing the ongoing crisis Black mothers face in the healthcare system.

Studies show that when Black women suffer from severe injuries or pregnancy complications or simply ask for assistance, they are often dismissed or ignored in the health care settings that are supposed to care for them. People of color  including expecting mothers  also bear the brunt of environmental injustices like air and water pollution, which worsen health outcomes, Biden said in the public White House announcement. That is why my Administration has worked to address this crisis from the very beginning. Vice President Kamala Harris came into office as a key leader on maternal health and continues to fight for improved maternal health outcomes, elevating the issue nationally and convening experts and activists to find solutions.

Black Maternal Health Week commences on April 11 through April 17, aiming to spotlight the healthcare challenges confronting Black women and advocating for their fundamental right to equitable access to care.
When the UNC System Board of Governors votes next week on a policy that will require students at the states public universities to learn the foundations of American democracy, few  if any  onlookers are likely to take issue with the concept.

Reports in recent years have shown that, across the country, students understanding of American history and government is decreasing. While North Carolina high school students are required to take courses on civics and U.S. history to graduate, some leaders  including, notably, UNC System President Peter Hans  argue that more can be done at the university level.

It is difficult to look at the state of American civic life right now and conclude higher education is doing all we can to prepare our graduates for our democratic republic, Hans said at a January meeting of the Board of Governors.

But debate has emerged over the process by which the new requirement was developed and what that could foreshadow for future policy proposals.

The policy bears significant similarities, and some notable differences, to the Reclaiming College Education on Americas Constitutional Heritage, or REACH Act, a Republican-sponsored bill considered in the General Assembly last year. The bill was heavily criticized by some university faculty, including nearly 700 at UNC-Chapel Hill who signed a letter against the bill and other higher-education legislation and policies last spring, saying the proposals violated the principles of academic freedom and shared governance that undergird higher education in N.C. and the U.S.

The bill passed the state House, but after it stalled in the Senate, UNC System leaders began working on their own version of the policy, recruiting a small group of faculty from across the 16-university system to assist them. The five-member faculty group was led by Wade Maki, a UNC Greensboro professor who chairs the UNC System Faculty Assembly.

Faculty leaders who spoke to The News & Observer said the systems approach of drafting its own version of the policy was used to get ahead of the legislature potentially acting on the REACH Act again, either in the upcoming short legislative session or at another time. While faculty were involved in the development of the policy, most who spoke to The N&O agreed the process  which was undoubtedly spurred by the REACH Act  was not ideal.

Whats really important for the public to know is that, you know, faculty did not object to learning civics. We love the idea of students having a college-level civics experience, right? Theres no disagreement on that, Maki told the N&O. There is, sort of, a lot of concern about the process we use.

UNC System policys similarities to NC REACH ACT

The new UNC System policy will create a new graduation requirement for students, to be fulfilled at some point in their undergraduate education at a state university, to successfully complete coursework in which they evaluate key documents, concepts and milestones from the founding of the country to ongoing challenges to form a more perfect Union.

The policy lists six documents that students must evaluate:

The U.S. Constitution

The Declaration of Independence

A representative selection of Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madisons Federalist Papers

President Abraham Lincolns Gettysburg Address

Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation

Martin Luther King Jr.s Letter from Birmingham Jail

The policy also indicates that faculty should teach additional readings, beyond those explicitly named, that reflect the breadth of American experiences.

The requirement does not create a single, standardized class to be taught across the university system. Instead, the two major learning objectives  referred to in the policy as student learning outcomes  are most likely to be gleaned from a wide variety of existing courses in history, political science, philosophy or other humanities subject areas.

These learning outcomes invite professors from across the system to teach the core concepts of American democracy in rigorous and creative ways, using their expertise to prepare our students for citizenship in a diverse society, Hans said in January. The goal is to create a shared foundation, guaranteeing all our students an equal opportunity to participate in a well-informed and responsible manner.

The requirement also does not state how students should be graded or evaluated on their understanding of the material.

Those elements present key differences in the UNC System policy, as compared to the legislative REACH Act, which in an early version would have required students to take a standalone, three-credit hour course on American government and pass a final exam on the listed documents, worth at least 20% of their final grade.

Maki and Hans said the UNC Systems version of the requirements allows the material and concepts to be taught across the university system in a way that is conscious of the varying degrees of resources campuses have and without increasing the time it will take for students to complete their degrees.

As I understand it, we have accomplished the learning objectives that our stakeholders were interested in in a way that isnt going to impact students time to graduation, Maki said. It will have less of a resource-implication on campuses than what other alternatives were being looked at, and it prevents the legislature from feeling the need to directly intervene in curricular decisions.

UNC System President Peter Hans speaks during a meeting of the UNC System Board of Governors on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown/kmckeown@newsobserver.com

Facultys role in developing curriculum

Maki and the other members of the faculty working group developed the policy over several months in the fall, after the REACH Act stalled in the state Senate and system office staff approached Maki about developing an alternative, he said.

He acknowledged that the fast-paced development of the policy and the direct involvement of just five faculty members in the process was not preferable. Though the policy was developed largely outside of the public eye, faculty across the UNC System were later able to provide feedback on the proposal after it was made public. Maki said some faculty suggestions, such as the use of the term evaluate in the learning outcomes, are evident in the final proposal.

Maki said the process used was necessary to avoid outside interference from legislators or other stakeholders.

Traditionally, models of shared governance in higher education  which gives faculty, administrators and governing board members different responsibilities in the functioning and oversight of a university  place generating and overseeing curriculum with faculty, not board members or other legislative bodies.

The REACH Act, which would have created a legislative mandate for university curricula, would have set an unfortunate precedent, Maki said.

Still, some faculty, including UNC-Chapel Hill Faculty Chair Beth Moracco, worry that a precedent  anticipating legislative action and tailoring university curricula to those efforts  has already been set.

Thats not the way that we should be developing curriculum or standards for our curricula, Moracco told The N&O. And so I worry about that being a precedent, because this was relatively confined  to required undergraduate coursework, but, you know, what will it be next time?

Other faculty members said they appreciated the involvement of faculty in the development of the policy, even if it was more limited than they would have hoped.

I support the idea of a mandate that college students learn about democratic principles and how our government functions, and I appreciate the fact that this was done with faculty representation, in an appropriate effort to maintain faculty control of the curriculum, Holden Hansen, chair of the faculty at UNC Pembroke, told The N&O.

Maki said he doesnt believe future curriculum is likely to be developed in the same way.

We dont think this is an example of a precedent going forward, Maki said. This was a particular case addressing a particular issue that we faced on a very tight timeline.

Why some say the policy is necessary

In explaining the perceived need for a system-wide civics education requirement, Hans and other leaders have pointed to already low and decreasing levels of understanding among American students of U.S. history, government and related principles, as well eroding trust in the countrys democracy.

In January, Hans cited research from the Institute for Citizens and Scholars, which found in a survey last year that more than half of Americans ages 18 to 24 are dissatisfied with our political system and have no or little trust in government institutions.

System staff, in meeting materials, also cited test results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which have consistently shown that less than 25 percent of students are proficient in civics, the materials stated.

That level of pessimism and civic illiteracy is simply not sustainable, Hans said in January. Our universities  especially our public universities  must do more to support and defend democracy.

Sean Colbert-Lewis, a history professor at NC Central University who was one of the five members on the faculty workgroup that developed the policy, said hes seen firsthand in the courses he teaches that some college students lack knowledge of the documents and ideas set forth in the policy.

I teach U.S. and world history classes right now, and Ive had students who didnt understand such concepts as the Bill of Rights, Colbert-Lewis told The N&O. They didnt know that our U.S. Constitution was actually the second constitution of the United States of America.

While students in North Carolina public high schools are required to learn about American history and government, Hans said in January that the varying degrees of resources in public school districts can lead to varying degrees of understanding among students.

Students from less resourced high schools, with fewer advanced courses or electives, are less likely to get the civic knowledge they need, Hans said. For the sake of fundamental fairness, our public universities should offer a college-level encounter with the tenets of American democracy.

Ashley Moraguez, a political science professor at UNC Asheville who also served on the faculty working group, said she sees students generally enter her classes with exposure and some level of understanding of the documents and ideas set forth in the UNC Systems proposed policy. She acknowledged that some students may have more understanding than others.

But she said most students, regardless of their level of understanding at the beginning of the course, are eager to learn more.

I think students really want to understand American politics and our political system, and they really want to engage, Moraguez said. And I think that these documents help give them a starting point to engage on a deeper level.

Wade Maki, chair of the UNC Faculty Assembly, shakes hands with UNC System President Peter Hans during a meeting of the UNC System Board of Governors on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. Kaitlin McKeown/kmckeown@newsobserver.com

What will the policy look like in practice?

If the policy goes into effect, each university in the UNC System will be responsible for identifying existing courses that meet the requirements. Maki said it will be key for faculty to provide students with a learning experience with the required readings, rather than simply listing them on a syllabus.

As a political science professor, Moraguez said she teaches several courses that involve instruction on at least some of the documents listed in the proposed policy. She believes one course, titled Challenges to American Democracy, would meet the required student learning outcomes in their entirety.

In that course, students read the required documents listed in the policy, plus several others that are not listed, to gauge the progress weve made as a country from the founding period to today in the contexts of race, gender and religion, Moraguez said. They are graded on their participation, reading-response papers and a final, semester-long project.

Moraguez said she wasnt familiar with other classes at UNC Asheville that teach the required documents, but her sense is that there are absolutely other courses that meet these requirements already, or that could be fairly straightforwardly modified to meet these requirements.

Though the policy is relatively broad and allows for flexibility, some faculty and leaders have expressed concern that it could be difficult for smaller universities or those with smaller humanities departments to implement.

At a January Board of Governors committee meeting, UNC Pembroke Chancellor Robin Cummings said while he supports the policy, its requirements may be difficult for smaller universities, including UNCP, to implement.

As the chancellor of a university with limited resources  the devil is always in the implementation details, Cummings said.

Hansen, the UNCP faculty chair, said implementing the policy will likely take time and resources and probably cost some money.

At this point, its not really clear if were going to be able to incorporate this subject matter into existing courses or were going to have to create entirely new courses, Hansen said. So, you know, were not going to be able to do this effectively without support.

For universities that do not have as robust of political science, history or other humanities departments, the working group and other faculty are working to compile an online repository of teaching materials that could make implementing the policys requirements easier.

I do empathize with campuses that dont have the standalone history or political science departments, Moraguez said. But hopefully the flexibility in this requirement will make it easier to implement.

The Board of Governors is likely to finalize its version of the policy in a full-board vote next week in Winston-Salem, after a committee approved it in February. The board is expected to vote on the policy through the consent agenda, which means it is likely to pass with a package of other policies and without further discussion.

The short legislative session, in which the REACH Act appears to meet the requirements of bills that could be considered, begins April 24.

Colbert-Lewis, of NC Central, said he believes the UNC Systems proposed policy sends a friendly message to legislators that faculty are invested in students education and that they would prefer legislators not interfere in the development of curriculum.

We welcome partnerships with the legislature, Colbert-Lewis said, but it is my hope that the legislature does not try to control or infringe on the academic freedom that we, as faculty, take very seriously.

Asked by The N&O in February whether he believed the UNC Systems policy satisfies the goals legislators were trying to achieve through the REACH Act, Hans said he and other system leaders are hopeful the legislature senses our mutual commitment to greater civics education and has continued faith in our ability to provide that for our students.
SPRINGFIELD  Health care workers and advocates held a rally inside the Illinois State Capitol on Thursday to promote legislation aimed at enhancing the safety of hospital employees amid staffing shortages at some medical facilities.

This is something that impacts the workers but then think about your loved ones when they are the patients, that theyre not getting the care that they need because there is no staff, Kim Smith, a patient care technician for Northwestern Medicine, said through a loudspeaker that blared throughout the Capitol rotunda. When I walk into a hospital and Im given 36 patients and Im the only tech on that floor, theres no way I can deliver good care.

A representative for Northwestern Medicine did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Many of the demonstrators sported purple and gold shirts representing the Service Employees International Union Healthcare Illinois, which organized the rally.

Legislators are considering at least two measures meant to improve working conditions in hospitals that have experienced lower-than-normal staffing levels in recent years, among them facilities that serve economically disadvantaged sections of the Chicago area and other parts of the state.

One bill would require hospitals to employ and schedule enough workers to provide quality patient care and ensure patient safety. Hospitals would have to annually publish staffing statistics to assess whether theyre at proper levels. The measure would also require the Illinois Department of Public Health to produce an annual report based on staffing disclosures.

The bill also would create a position of a hospital safety advocate within the department and codify that hospitals must conduct ongoing verification for each hospital worker employed in a given year to determine their competency.

Another bill would require hospitals to develop a written staffing plan and submit it to the Public Health Department. The department would also establish a Nurse Staffing Advisory Board under this legislation.

You shouldnt have to worry about being burdened because youre doing jobs that you shouldnt be doing, youre doing jobs that two or three people should be doing and that youre violating the training that you were given, state Sen. Christopher Belt, a Democrat from Swansea, a sponsor of one of the bills, said at the rally.

State Sen. Lakesia Collins, a Chicago Democrat who has worked in the health care industry, talked about how hard staffing shortages can be on workers.

Whether its in a nursing home, a hospital, wherever, staffing matters, said Collins, also a bill sponsor. I can tell you about the experience of having that wear and tear on your body and  the wear and tear on your mental (health) because youre left with the unthinkable but you still show up every single day and put in the work and yet we have to legislate something that is fundamental.

An SEIU survey of Chicago-area hospital workers from January 2023 found that 70% of respondents reported seeing or experiencing understaffing and over 25% of respondents reported an unsafe or unmanageable workload. It also highlighted racial disparities in health care access.

Patient lives are being lost, Black and brown lives in particular. Hospital workers are being injured, especially those working in Black and brown communities, said Anne Igoe, vice president of the Health Systems Division at SEIU Healthcare Illinois. Our hospitals need to be fully funded no matter where theyre located, and we need to ensure that our hospitals are properly staffed and workers are valued.

Citing statistics from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, SEIU Healthcare said that hospitals in the U.S. in 2019 recorded 221,400 work-related injuries and illnesses, a rate of 5.5 work-related injuries for every 100 full-time employees and almost twice the rate for private industry as a whole.

Ashley Bingham, a nursing assistant at Touchette Regional Hospital in Centreville, said she works at a behavioral health unit at the hospital and noted how she and her co-workers are put in danger by being physically attacked by patients because of being understaffed.

We are being put in dangerous situations we know based upon our training that (are) unsafe, Bingham said. Ive stayed because our patients are underserved and they need our help.

Brad Solberg, interim president at Touchette Regional Hospital, issued a statement in response saying that the hospital remains committed to ensuring a safe and secure working environment for our health care professionals.

Over the past four months, we have seen a substantial decrease in incidences of workplace violence injuries at our facility. It serves as testament to our dedication to workplace safety, Solberg said.
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA)  Certain types of pesticide applications require a licensed and certified applicator to ensure safety, and the University of Illinois is holding clinics to help Illinoisans get trained.

The University of Illinois Pesticide Safety Education Program offers training and testing available for anyone looking to get a license and certification across the state. The classes are taught both online and in-person at various locations.

CU Solidarity Gardens offering free plots to low-income and immigrant gardeners

In-person clinics offer a classroom setting learning with a fill-in-the-blank workbook provided by instructors. Each class is between two-and-a-half and three-and-a-half hours, with some clinics taught in one day and others taught in two days. Online training modules are also available for those interested to learn at their own pace.

Pre-registration and pre-payment is required for all classes. More details, including class offerings, cost and frequently asked questions, can be found on PSEPs website.

More information on registration and the licensure process can be found on the Illinois Pesticide Review Newsletter.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
Sarah Matthews was working in the White House on Jan. 6, 2021 when a mob of former President Donald Trumps supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of President Joe Biden's victory. She saw how Trumps staff tried to get him to condemn the violence for hours without success.

In my eyes, it was a complete dereliction of duty that he did not uphold his oath of office," Matthews told USA TODAY. "I lost all faith in him that day,

Matthews resigned from her job as deputy press secretary in the wake of Jan. 6. She views Trump as a threat to democracy who tried to steal the 2020 election and would do it again.

Matthews is part of a large group of former Trump administration officials who have been sharply disapproving of the former president as he seeks to return to the Oval Office. Many who are questioning his fitness for the presidency held high-level positions in the White House, including former Vice President Mike Pence and multiple cabinet members.

The Trump critics from within his own administration often point to a few key concerns: the threat they believe he poses to democracy, his handling of national security issues and his character.

The sheer number of Trump officials  a minimum of 16  speaking out against their former boss, and the severity of their criticism, is highly unusual. It has no historical precedent in the last century, according to three presidential historians and a political scientist interviewed by USA TODAY.

I dont think weve seen anything like this, certainly not in the last 100 years, said Lindsay Chervinsky, a senior fellow at the Center for Presidential History at Southern Methodist University.

Mike Pence, Mark Esper, John Bolton national security officials

Some former Trump administration officials are actively opposing his reelection. Others have been more circumspect while still offering damning assessments of his performance and character.

Pence was an enthusiastic proponent  critics would say "lapdog"  of Trump's until the former president pressured him to overturn Biden's victory, culminating in Trump supporters chanting "hang Mike Pence" as they overran the Capitol on Jan. 6. Pence ran against Trump in the 2024 Republican primary and now says he wont endorse him in the general election because of "profound differences," including on Pence's "constitutional duties."

Trump's former United Nations ambassador, Nikki Haley, also challenged him in the primary and has withheld her endorsement so far after dropping out.

"Someone who continually disrespects the sacrifices of military families has no business being commander in chief," Haley said about Trump, after the ex-president mocked Haley's husband, who is overseas on a military deployment.

Matthews, former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and former National Security Advisor John Bolton all told USA TODAY they wont vote for Trump. Other key Trump administration figures who have offered strong criticism of the former president include Attorney General Bill Barr, chief of staff John Kelly and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

Former National Security Advisor John Bolton is among the many Trump administration officials who have raised questions about his fitness to serve another term in office. Presidential historians say the amount of criticism Trump is receiving from high-profile members of his administration is highly unusual and may be unprecedented for a former president seeking reelection.

To see this many people coming out of an administration they worked for saying 'danger, dont let that guy anywhere near the White House again, it will put our democracy in peril,' its a stunning thing, said presidential historian Douglas Brinkley.

Bolton, a stalwart of Republican administrations for decades, said the long list of Trump critics from within the White House shows that questions about him go well beyond simple policy disagreements.

The stunning thing about the number of senior Trump administration officials whove campaigned against him I think proves that it really is Trumps flawed character, lack of knowledge, lack of philosophy, lack of fitness that has them concerned, Bolton said.

Bolton said it's normal for administration members to disagree with their boss, but they often remain loyal because they still think that the persons heart is in the right place and hes competent to do the job," whereas Boltons experience with Trump led him to believe that the former president is incompetent and more concerned with his own political interests than national security. Bolton has said he will write-in former Vice-President Dick Cheney in 2024, as he did in 2020.

Linda McMahon, Wilbur Ross and others remain supportive

Trump has plenty of former administration officials who are still loyal to him. Some are eager to see him reelected and are active in his 2024 campaign, such as former Trump Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and former Trump Small Business Administration chief Linda McMahon. Trump's campaign dismisses the dissidents as outliers seeking publicity.

"There were dozens of Cabinet Members, hundreds of White House employees, and thousands of political appointees who proudly served in the Trump Administration and continue to strongly support President Trump," Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said in a statement to USA TODAY. "The media loves to obsess over the few sell-outs who openly criticize him to boost their own egos or get more appearances on cable television."

'Threat to democracy'

Matthews was just 25 when she joined the Trump White House and seemed to have a long career in Republican politics ahead of her.

As the 2020 campaign played out, she grew uncomfortable about Trumps lies about the election  Trump falsely asserted there was massive voter fraud, claims that were rejected in dozens of court cases  but wanted to stick it out until the end of the administration.

Then Jan. 6 arrived.

I witnessed staff go to President Trump to try to get him to condemn the violence, Matthews said. For hours, Trump refused to do anything. He didnt want to stop it.

Matthews testified about what she saw to the U.S. House committee investigating Jan. 6, and since then she been raising the alarm about another Trump term. She believes Trumps actions amounted to an attempted coup and he would do it again.

We saw he didnt go along with the peaceful transfer of power the first time, what makes you think he would go along with it if he were elected to a second term and he would be willing to leave office? she said.

Esper, the former defense secretary, worries too about Trumps impact on Americas democratic system. In his 2022 memoir "A Sacred Oath," Esper calls Trumps decision to skip Bidens swearing-in a final act of petulance" that tarnished our democracy.

Hes a threat to democracy as we know it, Esper told USA TODAY.

Norms such as conceding electoral defeat and attending a successor's inauguration really hold the country together, Esper said.

Esper also writes about his alarm surrounding former Trump National Security Advisor Michael Flynns actions after the election, noting Flynn  who met with Trump in the Oval Office on Dec. 18, 2020  went on television that same week and suggested that Trump could declare martial law, seize voting machines and use military capabilities to basically rerun an election in each of those states.

Trump fired Esper shortly after the election amid speculation that Trump might try to use the military to hold onto power.

Character concerns

Esper is scathing in his book about Trumps character, efforts to politicize the military and decision-making on national security issues.

He writes that Trump is "unprincipled," "petty," "dangerous," and prone to "outright fabrications."

Denunciation of Trumps character and approach to governing come up repeatedly from the former administration officials who have criticized him:

* Former Trump Chief of Staff John Kelly told CNN that Trump has nothing but contempt for our democratic institutions, our Constitution and our rule of law.

*Former Trump Attorney General Bill Barr told CNN in an interview that Trump has a penchant, for engaging in... reckless acts and said I dont think he should be near the Oval Office, in discussing his opposition to Trump during the primary, while still leaving the door open to voting for him in the general election.

*Cassidy Hutchinson, who served as assistant to former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, told CNN that Donald Trump is the most grave threat that we will face to our democracy in our lifetime, and potentially in American history.

*Former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis released a statement condemning Jan. 6, when he accused the former president of using his position to "destroy trust in our election and to poison our respect for fellow citizens."

*Former Trump National Security Advisor Gen. H.R. McMaster in a CNN interview said the former president incited Jan. 6 through sustained disinformation... spreading these unfounded conspiracy theories" and accused him of anti-leadership and undermining rule of law.

*Former Trump White House Communications Director Stephanie Grisham, who resigned after Jan. 6, told ABC in 2021 Trump isn't "fit for the job," adding: "I think that he is erratic. I think that he can be delusional. I think that he is a narcissist and cares about himself first and foremost. And I do not want him to be our president again."

*Former Trump White House Communications Director Alyssa Farah Griffin told the Washington Post Trump is a threat to democracy, and I will never support him.

*Former Trump White House Special Counsel Ty Cobb told the Washington Post Trump's "unrestrained contempt for the rule of law and his related crimes, his conduct and mere existence have hastened the demise of democracy and of the nation.

Trump's loyalists

Richard Grenell, who served as Trump's acting director of national intelligence and has remained close with him, said criticisms of Trump's character "don't have any merit."

I know president Trump," Grenell said. "Hes extremely kind and hes a negotiator, he negotiates to try and make the situation better and in Washington D.C. a lot of people dont want a negotiator, they want somebody who sticks to their partisan guns and fights.

Grenell called the critics who have emerged from Trump's administration "creatures of Washington D.C."

Washington D.C. has a problem from both sides of the aisle where people live, work, worship, play and grow their families all in Washington D.C.," Grenell said. "It is difficult to think that the people who benefit from Washington D.C. are ever going to try to reform it.

Among the other former Trump administration officials backing his campaign are former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson and Ross, all of whom endorsed his 2024 bid.

Ross and McMahon were among the co-chairs of a fundraiser this month for Trump in Palm Beach.

'Unprecedented' concern from those who worked most closely with the president

Tell-all memoirs from White House veterans have become more common in recent years, but such criticism is normally much milder than what has emerged from the Trump White House and limited to a handful of people said William Howell, a University of Chicago political scientist who has written several books about the presidency.

"Here you have a chorus of voices, all of whom are singing from the same hymnal, which is about Trump being ill-suited to serve as president and representing a distinct threat to democracy," Howell said. "I can't think of a corollary, certainly in modern American history."

"Historians dont like to use the word unprecedented but when you take the two things together I feel comfortable using the word unprecedented given the intensity of the criticism and the collective nature of the criticism," said presidential historian Gil Troy, who co-wrote a book on the history of presidential elections.

Will it matter in the election?

The political consequences of so much friendly fire being directed at Trump from within the ranks of his White House staff is unclear, as Trump's support has withstood countless scandals so far.

Chervinsky, the presidential historian, noted that "hardening party lines" in recent years means that voters are quicker to dismiss criticism of their party leader, even from within their own ranks. Instead, the critic is often the one who loses support, at least in the Trump-era GOP. Former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, a conservative Republican from a prominent GOP family, lost her party leadership position and was defeated in a primary after becoming a vocal critic of Trump's actions surrounding Jan. 6.

"Theres less of a swing in public opinion and less room to change minds but that doesnt mean theres no room to change minds, Chervinksky said.

But the number of former Trump administration officials criticizing him and the scope and severity of their criticism is "extraordinary," she added, and could be a factor with late-deciding swing voters.

Howell said attacks "from your own tribe" tend to be more politically damaging.

"Those kinds of critiques, when they involve character or when they involve policy, theres good research shows, can break through partisan divisions and corrode base levels of support," Howell said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump's 'extraordinary' number of critics who have worked for him
US biotech executive sentenced to 7 years in jail for COVID test fraud

U.S. Justice Department seal is seen at Justice Department headquarters in Washington

(Reuters) - The chief executive of a U.S. biotechnology company that falsely promised investors it could produce a quick and accurate COVID-19 test was sentenced to seven years' in jail on Friday, the Justice Department said.

Keith Berman, 70, of Westlake Village, California, pleaded guilty last December to securities fraud totaling around $28 million.

The Justice Department said that from February through December 2020, Berman falsely claimed his Decision Diagnostics company had developed a 15-second test to detect COVID-19 in a finger prick sample of blood when, in reality, no such test existed.

"Berman defrauded investors to profit from the pandemic," Nicole Argentieri, head of the Justice Department's criminal division, said in a statement.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission had sued the company and Berman in December 2020.

(Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Leslie Adler)
Migrants wait between border walls separating Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego, to apply for asylum with U.S. authorities, Friday, April 12, 2024, seen from San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Arrests for crossing the U.S. border illegally fell slightly in March, authorities said Friday, bucking a usual spring increase amid increased immigration enforcement in Mexico.

The Border Patrol made 137,480 arrests of people entering from Mexico, down 2.3% from 140,638 arrests in February, the first time since 2017 that arrests fell in March from the previous month. Crossings typically rise as temperatures turn warmer.

Mexico detained migrants 240,000 times in the first two months of the year, more than triple from the same period of 2023, sending many deeper south into the country to discourage them from coming to the United States. While Mexico hasn't released figures for March, U.S. officials have said Mexican enforcement is largely responsible for recent declines.

Encounters at our southern border are lower right now, but we remain prepared for changes, continually managing operations to respond to ever-shifting transnational criminal activities and migration patterns, said Troy Miller, acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The March arrest tally is one of the lowest of Joe Biden's presidency after a record high of nearly 250,000 in December. While conditions quickly change, the decline is welcome news for the White House at a time when immigration has become a top voter concern in an election year. Biden said this month that he is still considering executive action to suspend asylum at the border if crossings hit a certain threshold.

Tucson, Arizona, was again the busiest of the Border Patrol's nine sectors on the Mexican border in March, a position it has held since summer, followed by San Diego and El Paso, Texas. Texas' Rio Grande Valley, the busiest corridor for illegal crossings for much of the last decade, is fifth busiest, signaling how quickly routes are changing.

The arrest tally excludes new and expanded paths to enter the country legally under presidential powers, known as parole, which allow people to stay temporarily and apply for work permits.

U.S. authorities granted entry to 44,000 people at land crossings with Mexico in March through an online appointment system, CBP One. More than 547,000 have been allowed in the country through CBP One since it was introduced in January, led by Venezuelans, Haitians and Mexicans.

More than 400,000 people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela have been allowed to enter the U.S. through March after applying online with a financial sponsor and arriving at an airport, paying their way.
US changes force posture over imminent threat of Iran attacking Israel

The US is deploying extra military assets near Israel to protect it from a strike by Iran that could come as soon as this weekend.

Officials said they had implemented force posture changes and deployed additional assets to the region in light of threats by Tehran to strike Israeli territory in retaliation for an air strike on its consulate in Damascus last week.

On Friday, the Pentagon was said to have been expecting an attack in the next 48 hours, which raised the prospect of a direct conflict between Iran and Israel for the first time.

President Joe Biden on Friday said he expected Iran to attack Israel sooner, rather than later and warned Tehran not to proceed.

Asked by reporters about his message to Iran, Mr Biden simply said: Dont.

We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed, he said.

The USS Dwight D Eisenhower, an aircraft carrier, has sailed north through the Red Sea, bringing it closer to Israel, while local media reported Washington was planning to station a missile-equipped vessel close to the Israeli coast.

The Eisenhower is deployed alongside a US Navy cruiser, the USS Philippine Sea, and two destroyers, the USS Gravely and the USS Mason.

An online flight tracker tool showed a cargo plane linked to the aircraft carrier taking off near Yanbu, a Saudi Arabian port city in the northern Red Sea.

The US Navy declined to comment on reports that it had increased its presence in the region amid reports Iran has warned the US not to defend Israel or get involved in the conflict.

John Kirby, the White Houses national security spokesman, told reporters: I certainly cant deny that weve taken a look at [US deployments] and made some adjustments, but I am not in a position to get into the actual details of what that looks like.

Separately, the US has increased its presence on existing bases in the Middle East in anticipation of attacks by Iran or its proxy groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon.

We are moving additional assets to the region to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces, a defence official said.

The State Department has advised its staff not to travel within Israel until the situation is resolved, while the UK, France, India and Russia have issued travel warnings to their nationals in the region.

Iranian leader Ali Khamenei has raised his aggressive posture to Israel - ZUMAPRESS.com/Avalon

There were no visible signs of panic in Israel on Friday as shoppers in Jerusalem went to get groceries and families enjoyed a sunny afternoon on cafe terraces before they closed for the Sabbath.

Israels foreign ministry did not comment on reports that some Israeli diplomatic missions had been partially evacuated and security stepped up.

An Iranian attack on Israel in some form has been threatened by the countrys Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei since the Damascus strike on April 1, which killed a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander, Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi and six other members of the group.

Israel has not claimed the air strike but is widely believed to have been responsible.

Mr Khamenei said on Wednesday: When they attacked our consulate area, it was like they attacked our territory. The evil regime must be punished, and it will be punished.

It is unclear whether Irans response would come in the form of missiles from Iranian soil or from its nearby proxies in Lebanon and Syria.

Were taking this seriously

Western intelligence officials are expecting attacks on military and government buildings in Israel, but do not think civilians will be targeted.

I cant speak to what the intelligence picture tells us in terms of the size, scale, scope of what that attack might look like, except to say that were taking this seriously, Mr Kirby said, adding that the threat was credible.

The revenge will come, wrote Israels largest daily newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth. For the moment, the premise is that it will be very soon, in the next few days.

Given its magnitude, a strike on military targets would be challenging for Israel to defend itself against, US officials told CBS News.

The officials said they hoped Iran would opt for a smaller-scale strike.

Other unnamed US officials told The Wall Street Journal that Israel was preparing for a direct attack from Iran on the north and south of the country as early as Friday or Saturday.

On Friday, Hezbollah, the Iran-aligned militia in Lebanon, launched around 40 missiles into Israel in retaliation for its latest bombardment of villages in Gaza.

The attack was partially intercepted by the Iron Dome defence system.

The Israel Defense Forces and Mossad have already approved contingency plans to hit targets in Iran in case it decides to launch air strikes on Israel, while the US is expected to offer military support.

Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defence minister, said that Israel and the US were shoulder to shoulder in facing the threat from Iran after talks with the US regional military commander Gen Michael Kurilla.

Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true - they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties, he said.

HMS Lancaster is not currently expected to join US naval movements - Will Haigh/Royal Navy

The prospect of the US participating in the conflict, either to defend Israel or retaliate against Iran, came as Tehran reportedly warned the Biden administration to stay out of the conflict.

Iran warned the US via Middle Eastern intermediaries that any participation from US forces would be met with a military response, Axios reported.

In January, three American troops were killed by an Iran-backed militia in Jordan.

The UK has two warships in the region, with HMS Diamond, a Type 45 destroyer, operating in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen. A Royal Navy source told The Telegraph it had no plans to join US operations off the coast of Israel.

A second Royal Navy warship, HMS Lancaster, is deployed in the Arabian Sea to counter drug and weapon smuggling.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
US House Speaker Johnson discusses aid to Ukraine with White House and will "consult" with Trump

Republican Party leader Steve Scalise has said that Mike Johnson, Speaker of the US House of Representatives, is in talks with the White House on financial aid for Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda, citing Associated Press

Details: Scalise told reporters that Johnson and White House officials were discussing a package that would differ from the Senate's proposed US$95 billion security package and include several Republican demands.

"Theres been no agreement reached. Obviously there would have to [be] an agreement reached not just with the White House, but with our own members," Scalise said.

In addition, the Republican speaker plans to travel to former US President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Florida on Friday for a meeting.

Johnson has been in consultations with him over the past few weeks regarding Ukraine funding, aiming to secure his support or, at the very least, prevent him from openly opposing the package, the agency said.

Senator Markwayne Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, stated this week that he and Trump had discussed ways to move forward with aid to Ukraine "in-depth" with Johnson.

It is unclear whether Trump will express any political support for the package. Still, Mullin indicated that he hopes the former president will back it, especially now that Johnson's job is on the line.

Republican Marjorie Taylor Green has issued a threat, stating that she would attempt to remove Johnson from office if he pushes for funding for Ukraine.

Johnson has been in talks with the White House to pass a bill that would structure some of the funding for Kyiv as loans, open the way for the US to access frozen assets belonging to Russia's central bank, and make other changes.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently said that Ukraine would accept a loan from the US in the absence of other options.

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Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad fair value estimate is RM10.25

British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad's RM8.47 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

The RM9.02 analyst price target for BAT is 12% less than our estimate of fair value

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad (KLSE:BAT) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

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.

View our latest analysis for British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad

The Model

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM323.8m RM256.1m RM226.2m RM210.5m RM202.5m RM199.2m RM199.1m RM201.2m RM204.7m RM209.5m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ -6.94% Est @ -3.80% Est @ -1.60% Est @ -0.06% Est @ 1.02% Est @ 1.78% Est @ 2.31% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 9.5% RM296 RM214 RM172 RM147 RM129 RM116 RM106 RM97.5 RM90.6 RM84.7

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM1.5b

Story continues

We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. 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 (3.5%) 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 9.5%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM209m (1 + 3.5%)  (9.5% 3.5%) = RM3.7b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM3.7b ( 1 + 9.5%)10= RM1.5b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is RM2.9b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM8.5, the company appears about fair value at a 17% 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

The Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad 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 9.5%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.935. 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 British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad

Strength

Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows.

Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Opportunity

Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Malaysian market.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. 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 British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad, we've compiled three relevant aspects you should further research:

Risks: We feel that you should assess the 2 warning signs for British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad we've flagged before making an investment in the company. Future Earnings: How does BAT'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 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. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the KLSE 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.
ABOARD THE USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT  A U.S. carrier strike group led by the USS Theodore Roosevelt has held a two-day joint exercise with its allies Japan and South Korea as U.S. President Joe Biden met for talks with leaders from Japan and the Philippines at the White House. The military and diplomatic maneuvers are meant to strengthen the partners solidarity in the face of what they see as Chinas aggressive military actions in the region.

A number of U.S. and South Korean guided missile destroyers and a Japanese warship joined the drills in the disputed East China Sea, where worries about Chinas territorial claims are rising. The Associated Press was one of several news organizations allowed a front-row look at the drills.

Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine, said the three nations conducted undersea warfare exercises, maritime interdiction operations, search and rescue drills and work focused on communication and data sharing. He told journalists Thursday on the Roosevelt that these drills would help improve communication among the United States and its allies and better prepare us for a crisis in the region.

F/A-18E Super Hornet combat jets took off from the carriers flight deck, which also had anti-submarine MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. Journalists were flown more than an hour from Kadena Air Base, the hub of U.S. Pacific air power. Kadena is on Japans southern island of Okinawa, which is home to about half of the 50,000 American troops stationed in Japan.

It is a busy time; there is a lot going on in the world, Alexander said. The significance of this exercise is we have three like-minded countries, three like-minded navies that believe in peace, security and stability in the western Pacific.

In Beijing, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said its director-general of Asian affairs had met with a top Japanese Embassy official on Friday and expressed serious concern and strong dissatisfaction about Japans negative moves during Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas meetings in Washington with Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

That followed earlier Chinese statements that accused the U.S. and Japan of smearing China and urged them to stop undermining regional peace and stability, while saying China will resolutely defend its security and development interests.

The participation of Japan and South Korea in the joint exercise was another sign of improving ties between the sometimes wary neighbors. The two U.S. allies relationship has often been strained by the memory of Japans 35-year colonization of the Korean Peninsula. Washington has been pressing them to cooperate so the three partners can better deal with threats from China and North Korea.

This weeks huge parliamentary election defeat of the governing party of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has sought better relations with Japan, could constrain his Japan-friendly efforts, but experts believe ties will remain stable.

The drills focused on improving the three nations joint response capability against North Koreas increasing nuclear and missile threats, South Koreas navy said in a statement. It said the navies conducted anti-submarine exercises to enhance their readiness against North Korean submarine threats and maritime interdiction training to practice blocking potential illegal transfers of banned weapons by the North.

The latest naval exercise is part of Bidens work to deepen security and diplomatic engagement with Indo-Pacific nations. Biden invited Kishida and Marcos to the White House for their first trilateral talks Thursday, and has declared that the U.S. defense commitment to the Pacific allies is ironclad.

Tensions between China and the Philippines have risen over repeated clashes by the two nations coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

Beijing has defended its operations in the South China Sea and blamed the United States for creating tensions. Chinese President Xi Jinping had a series of talks this week with senior officials from Vietnam, Russia and Taiwan.

The U.S.-Japan-South Korea naval exercises follow four-way drills held in the South China Sea, where Japan joined the United States, Australia and the Philippines. Participants carefully avoided mentioning China and said they were holding the exercises to safeguard a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific.

A Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson said Friday that Chinas activities in the South China Sea are justified, lawful and beyond reproach and accused the U.S. of flexing its muscles in the region and building up anti-China cliques.

These acts are irresponsible and extremely dangerous, Senior Col. Wu Qian said in a statement posted online.

An area of long-simmering disputes, the South China Sea serves a key sea lane for global trade. Concerned governments include Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Taiwan.
A F-18E fighter jet prepares to take off from USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier on Thursday April 11, 2024, during a three-day joint naval exercise by the U.S., Japanese and South Korea at the East China Sea amid tension from China and North Korea. (AP Photo/Mari Yamaguchi)

ABOARD THE USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (AP)  A U.S. carrier strike group led by the USS Theodore Roosevelt has held a two-day joint exercise with its allies Japan and South Korea as U.S. President Joe Biden met for talks with leaders from Japan and the Philippines at the White House. The military and diplomatic maneuvers are meant to strengthen the partners' solidarity in the face of what they see as Chinas aggressive military actions in the region.

A number of U.S. and South Korean guided missile destroyers and a Japanese warship joined the drills in the disputed East China Sea, where worries about China's territorial claims are rising. The Associated Press was one of several news organizations allowed a front-row look at the drills.

Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine, said the three nations conducted undersea warfare exercises, maritime interdiction operations, search and rescue drills and work focused on communication and data sharing. He told journalists Thursday on the Roosevelt that these drills would help improve communication among the United States and its allies and "better prepare us for a crisis in the region.

F/A-18E Super Hornet combat jets took off from the carriers flight deck, which also had anti-submarine MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. Journalists were flown more than an hour from Kadena Air Base, the hub of U.S. Pacific air power. Kadena is on Japan's southern island of Okinawa, which is home to about half of the 50,000 American troops stationed in Japan.

It is a busy time; there is a lot going on in the world," Alexander said. "The significance of this exercise is we have three like-minded countries, three like-minded navies that believe in peace, security and stability in the western Pacific.

In Beijing, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said its director-general of Asian affairs had met with a top Japanese Embassy official on Friday and expressed serious concern and strong dissatisfaction about Japan's negative moves during Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's meetings in Washington with Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

That followed earlier Chinese statements that accused the U.S. and Japan of smearing China and urged them to stop undermining regional peace and stability, while saying China will resolutely defend its security and development interests.

The participation of Japan and South Korea in the joint exercise was another sign of improving ties between the sometimes wary neighbors. The two U.S. allies' relationship has often been strained by the memory of Japan's 35-year colonization of the Korean Peninsula. Washington has been pressing them to cooperate so the three partners can better deal with threats from China and North Korea.

This week's huge parliamentary election defeat of the governing party of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has sought better relations with Japan, could constrain his Japan-friendly efforts, but experts believe ties will remain stable.

The drills focused on improving the three nations joint response capability against North Koreas increasing nuclear and missile threats, South Koreas navy said in a statement. It said the navies conducted anti-submarine exercises to enhance their readiness against North Korean submarine threats and maritime interdiction training to practice blocking potential illegal transfers of banned weapons by the North.

The latest naval exercise is part of Biden's work to deepen security and diplomatic engagement with Indo-Pacific nations. Biden invited Kishida and Marcos to the White House for their first trilateral talks Thursday, and has declared that the U.S. defense commitment to the Pacific allies is ironclad."

Tensions between China and the Philippines have risen over repeated clashes by the two nations coast guard vessels in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese coast guard ships also regularly approach disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands near Taiwan.

Beijing has defended its operations in the South China Sea and blamed the United States for creating tensions. Chinese President Xi Jinping had a series of talks this week with senior officials from Vietnam, Russia and Taiwan.

The U.S.-Japan-South Korea naval exercises follow four-way drills held in the South China Sea, where Japan joined the United States, Australia and the Philippines. Participants carefully avoided mentioning China and said they were holding the exercises to safeguard a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific.

A Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson said Friday that China's activities in the South China Sea are justified, lawful and beyond reproach and accused the U.S. of flexing its muscles in the region and building up anti-China cliques.

These acts are irresponsible and extremely dangerous, Senior Col. Wu Qian said in a statement posted online.

An area of long-simmering disputes, the South China Sea serves a key sea lane for global trade. Concerned governments include Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Taiwan.

___

This story has been corrected to say that the drills took place over two days, not three.
US joins South Korea and Japan for naval drills off Korean peninsula

F-15K and FA-50 fighters stand at Kunsan Air Base in Gunsan, for the Korea Flying Training, which kicked off on the same day for a two-week run. The annual South Korea-US joint air force exercise mobilizes around 100 warplanes, including US F-35B and South Korean F-35A stealth fighters, to strengthen their readiness against North Korean military threats. -/YNA/dpa

The US naval forces have held a joint manoeuvre with the navies of South Korea and Japan to deter North Korea, South Korea's navy announced.

The two-day training exercise involving a US aircraft carrier and destroyers from the three countries took place from Thursday to Friday in international waters south of the Korean peninsula, the navy said.

The goal is to improve their joint response capabilities in view of growing threats from North Korea's missiles and nuclear weapons.

Part of the exercises were also aimed at anti-submarine defence. The three allies also consider ballistic missiles that can be launched from North Korean submarines among the threats.

Since the beginning of 2022, the communist leadership in Pyongyang has significantly increased the scope of its ballistic missile tests in violation of UN resolutions.

North Korea is prohibited by UN resolutions from launching or even testing ballistic missiles of any range. These are usually surface-to-surface missiles that can also be equipped with a nuclear warhead.

The US has stepped up its military cooperation with both South Korea and Japan.

The latest naval exercises also reportedly followed a multi-year trilateral training plan.

The plans are based on an agreement reached last year when the leaders of the three countries met for a summit in the US.

F-15K and FA-50 fighters stand at Kunsan Air Base in Gunsan, for the Korea Flying Training, which kicked off on the same day for a two-week run. The annual South Korea-US joint air force exercise mobilizes around 100 warplanes, including US F-35B and South Korean F-35A stealth fighters, to strengthen their readiness against North Korean military threats. -/YNA/dpa
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Rep. Cori Bush (D-MO) rallies with U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) outside of the U.S. Department of Justice to call for an end to qualified immunity in Washington, U.S., March 3, 2022. REUTERS/Leah Millis

By Sarah Morland

(Reuters) - U.S. lawmakers on Thursday called for the country to take further action to stop the flow of firearms to Haiti and to halt the forced return of migrants seeking to flee worsening street violence and shortages of essential supplies.

Democratic congresswomen Ayanna Pressley, Cori Bush and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick met with human rights advocates and Haitian organizations to call for the extension of temporary protection status for migrants, an end to deportations and stronger controls at Florida ports, which the United Nations considers the main route for trafficking firearms to gangs which control most of the capital.

Attendees included representatives from the Haitian Bridge Alliance, Florida Immigrant Coalition, Family Action Network Movement and Amnesty International USA.

Haitian armed groups have tightened their grip on the Caribbean country even further since unelected Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his resignation a month ago, deepening a humanitarian crisis as people live under frequent gunfire while ports remain closed, hospitals lack key supplies and stores run out of food.

There has been little international reaction besides bolstering border security.

"We have to do everything we can as Americans to not continue to support the gangs by giving them the ammunitions they need to terrorize the Haitian people," said Cherfilus-McCormick - Congress' only Haitian-American representative.

She also called for lawmakers to come together to unblock the majority of some $300 million the government pledged to support a security force to Haiti, that has been mandated to help police restore routes for humanitarian supplies.

The force has been on hold as Haiti awaits a new government, a process that was expected to take a couple of days from Henry's March 11 announcement he would step down but has dragged on for over a month with the outgoing cabinet yet to authorize the publication of a decree formalizing the transfer of power.

Activists at the meeting also called for U.S. government clarification on the possible use of Guantanamo Bay to control migration after Southern Command General Laura Richardson spoke last month of a "contingency plan" involving the U.S. naval base located on the island of Cuba, without giving further details.

The base was last used to hold Haitian and Cuban migrants in the 1990s when it achieved notoriety for the imprisonment of hundreds of people fleeing a coup d'etat.

Many Haitians are wary of international interventions after previous U.N. missions left behind a devastating cholera epidemic and sex abuse scandals, for which reparations were never made.

(Reporting by Sarah Morland in Mexico City; Editing by Aurora Ellis)
U.S. Space Force Col. Phillip Verroco explains the layout of the Combined Space Operations Center's operations floor to French officers on April 15, 2022, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. (Tech. Sgt Luke Kitterman/U.S. Space Force)

Working closely with allies and partners offers the Department of Defense an opportunity to build resilience and strengthen deterrence in an increasingly contested space domain.

Senior leaders from several countries spoke to this issue at this weeks Space Symposium, a major annual convention for space leaders. Gen. Stephen Whiting, the commander of U.S. Space Command, for example, invited Germany, France and New Zealand to join Operation Olympic Defender, the U.S.-led multinational space operation. John Plumb, the outgoing assistant secretary of defense for space policy, expressed confidence that the departments Allied by Design approach to allies and partners would succeed. He noted the successes, such as our entirely new space classification policy, but also noted continuing challenges.

The discussion at Space Symposium demonstrates the mixed success of U.S. efforts to build relationships with allies and partners on space initiatives. While the DODs work to strengthen allied space cooperation is significant and welcome, it remains insufficient to achieve stated policy objectives and ensure the level of allied integration necessary to prevail against future threats.

There are entrenched organizational, regulatory and practical challenges that limit cooperation, which will require sustained, high-level collaboration and change. We continue to believe that increased cooperation between DOD and intelligence community leaders is needed to address these challenges, and that the United States should increase transparency with allies about both the realistic constraints as well as its commitment to deeper engagement.

These challenges  and recommendations for action  are documented in Rands report Allied by Design: Defining a Path to Thoughtful Allied Space Power, published earlier this year. We found that decades-old policies and unresolved organizational divides within and outside the DOD contribute to confusion among allies about U.S. space priorities.

These policies and varying organizational priorities within the DOD and intelligence community stem from real questions about which organizations should be in the lead and when and whether it is in the United States interest to deepen cooperation, given risks of the loss of sensitive information and becoming overly dependent on allies.

Organizational dynamics, including the multitude of offices in the department involved in allied issues, do pose challenges, but that should not prevent the various U.S. entities from finding ways to work together to solve problems. This is demonstrated by the revised DOD security classification policies and progress observed in coordination between the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Space Command and the Space Force.

However, many issues require coordination from outside of the DOD. One such critical area is revising rules and procedures for sharing classified information with allies and partners  an issue beyond recent policy changes on the DOD classification of space information.

The DOD and intelligence community have separate policies on sharing classified information with allies. The DOD policy, for example, dates from the 1970s from the National Security Council and requires military organizations to gain permission from foreign disclosure officers to release documents. The intelligence communitys different procedures for marking documents often lead officials to overclassify information and limit sharing.

Further, as Plumb noted in his remarks at Space Symposium, data collected from space is differently classified if the DOD is flying the satellite rather than the intelligence community.

Beyond the rules, staffs face practical challenges: The relevant information technology systems often make it challenging to seamlessly communicate with even the closest allies. Allies consistently made it clear to us that the inability of the United States to share information frustrates cooperation.

Recognizing that these are deeply rooted issues that require coordination between the DOD and intelligence community, our report proposed that the deputy secretary of defense and the director of national intelligence form a focused working group to address this topic. We originally recommended engagement at this senior level prior to the announcement of the revised DOD classification guidance because only the secretary and deputy secretary oversaw DOD stakeholders involved in space issues.

Accounts of the DODs progress to date indicate that progress required herculean efforts of working closely with the DOD, the State Department and the intelligence community at senior levels, which enabled Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks to approved the DODs new policy on the classification of space information.

The progress to date, as well as ongoing delays in revising intelligence community rules, suggests continued engagement at senior levels between DOD leaders and their Office of the Director of National Intelligence counterparts will be necessary to achieve interagency progress.

As we described in detail in our report, the road to thoughtful allied space power is steep and requires commitment to make progress. Whatever happens, the United States needs to be more transparent and consistent with allies and partners about the realistic prospects for cooperation. Being forthright about the prospects for cooperation will enable allies and partners to make choices about their own investments and operations that will strengthen future coalition capabilities.

Andrew Radin is a senior political scientist at the think tank Rand, where Bruce McClintock is a senior policy researcher and leads the Space Enterprise Initiative. They are lead authors of the Rand report Allied by Design: Defining a Path to Thoughtful Allied Space Power.
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre has stated in a briefing that Ukraine needs more air defence capabilities to protect against Russian missiles. To achieve this, House Speaker Mike Johnson needs to put a bill on assistance to Ukraine on the floor.

Source: Karine Jean-Pierre during a briefing

Details: She urged the US House of Representatives to take immediate action to pass a bipartisan national security bill so that the US could send more air defence systems to Ukraine.

Quote: "Overnight Russia launched another large round of aerial assaults against Ukraines energy grid, as Vladimir Putin continue[s] to try to break the spirit of the Ukrainian people and plunge them into darkness. Russia struck the largest power plant in Kyiv Oblast, as well as power facilities in five other regions across Ukraine. As President Zelenskyy said in the recent days, Ukraine needs more air defences and interceptors to protect its people and critical infrastructure against Russian missiles and Iranian-supplied drones.

We need the Speaker [Johnson] to put that bill on the floor because we know we would get overwhelming support from Republicans and Democrats, obviously. So, we need to see that bill put on the floor that was passed overwhelmingly in the Senate. The strikes in Ukraine over the past 24 hours are another terrible reminder that Ukraines need is critical."

Background:

The Trypillia Thermal Power Plant in Kyiv Oblast was completely destroyed in a large-scale Russian missile attack on the early morning of 11 April.

Ukrenergos substations and generation facilities in Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv, Kharkiv and Kyiv Oblast were damaged.

Russia attacked two thermal power plants owned by DTEK company (Ukraine's largest private investor in energy), severely damaging the equipment there.

The Russians conducted another attack on Kharkiv Oblast. The attack damaged the thermal power plant that supplies Kharkiv and completely destroyed a transformer substation.

In addition, Russian troops launched an airstrike with guided aerial bombs on a thermal power plant in Sumy.

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US restricts staff in Israel from traveling outside cities as Iran attack threat persists

US restricts staff in Israel from traveling outside cities as Iran attack threat persists

The U.S. State Department is restricting travel for government employees and their family members outside of major cities in Israel as concerns remain high Friday that Iran could attack at any moment in retaliation for an Israeli airstrike that destroyed the Iranian consulate in Syria.

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has posted a message on its website saying "Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva areas until further notice."

It added that "the security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events."

On Wednesday, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised to retaliate against Israel -- saying "it will be punished" -- for an airstrike that demolished Irans consulate in Syria earlier this month. Khamenei said the strike in Damascus, which left several Iranian generals dead, was "wrongdoing" and akin to an attack on Iran itself.

IRAN ATTACK THREAT PROMPTS US GENERAL VISIT TO ISRAEL, REVIEW OF MILITARY CAPABILITIES

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on April 4, looks at the coffins of members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps who were killed in the Israeli airstrike on the Iranian embassy complex in the Syrian capital of Damascus.

State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, when asked about the new U.S. travel advisory Thursday, said "we have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days."

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"Israel's in a very tough neighborhood and have been monitoring the security situation. You saw us slightly adjust our travel warnings at the beginning of this conflict. And we conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground," he continued.

HOUSE REPUBLICANS TURN UP HEAT ON BIDEN TO BROKER EXPEDIENT RELEASE OF HAMAS HOSTAGES, SUPPORT ISRAEL

"I'm not going to speak to the specific assessments that led to us to restrict our families, employees and family members' personal travel. But clearly, we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel," he added. "And that's what led us to give that warning our employees and their family members and to make it public so all U.S. citizens who either live in Israel or are traveling there are aware of it."

U.S. Central Command Gen. Michael Kurilla also met with Israel Defense Forces Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen Hezi Halevi in Israel on Thursday.

Kurilla was scheduled to visit Israel, but he took the trip sooner than planned due to threats from Iran against Israel, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed during a press conference.

Fox News Lawrence Richard, Peter Aitken and Yonat Friling contributed to this report.





Original article source: US restricts staff in Israel from traveling outside cities as Iran attack threat persists
The Treasury Department announced Friday it issued sanctions against a Hamas spokesperson and leaders of the groups drone unit.

The departments Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said it was taking action to target Hamas leaders based in Gaza and Lebanon who oversee the cyber and unmanned aerial vehicle operations.

The European Union is also imposing new sanctions targeting Hamas, the statement said.

Todays joint action reinforces our continued, collective focus on disrupting Hamass ability to conduct further attacks, including through cyber warfare and the production of UAVs, said Brian Nelson, the undersecretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence.

Treasury, in coordination with our allies and partners, will continue to target Hamass facilitation networks wherever they operate, including in the cyber domain.

The U.S. is targeting Hudhayfa Samir Abdallah al-Kahlut, known as Abu Ubaida, who has been the spokesperson for the military wing of Hamas in Gaza since 2007. Al-Kahlut leads the cyber influence department and has been involved in servers in Iran that host the official al-Qassam Brigades website in cooperation with Iranian institutions, the Treasury said.

The department is also targeting William Abu Shanab, the commander of the Lebanon-based al-Shumali unit, along with Baraa Hasan Farhat, the assistant to Aby Shanab, and an intelligence official in the unit named Khalil Muhammad Azzam.

As a result of todays action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC, the department said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
US sees no reason for China to see US meetings with Japan, Philippines as a threat

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The White House said on Friday there is no reason for China to see a U.S. summit this week with Japan and the Philippines as a threat.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby spoke after China complained to Japan and the Philippines about some of the rhetoric emerging from President Joe Biden's summit talks with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines this week.

"These meetings were not about any one other nation. This was about deepening and revitalizing existing alliances and partnerships and strengthening some new ones," Kirby told reporters.

"There's no reason for the PRC to look at this as any kind of a threat. This was simply a discussion between three allies about mutual challenges and quite frankly mutual opportunities that we are trying to explore in the Indo-Pacific region," he said.

(Reporting by Steve Holland and Doina Chiacu; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama)
Russia is always ready to assist in the delimitation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, the Spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said during the weekly briefing, Azernews reports.

"All territorial disputes and mutual claims between Baku and Yerevan should be settled by political and diplomatic methods," she added.

According to her, there are necessary mechanisms for establishing sustainable peace and prosperity in the region.

"First and foremost, they are a series of trilateral agreements involving the leaders of Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia. The Russian Federation is always ready to assist in finding solutions, including the delimitation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border," Zakharova said.

To note, the seventh session of the State Commission on State Border Delimitation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia and the Commission on State Border Delimitation and Border Security between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan was held on March 7 at the conditional border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan.

The sides exchanged views on the delimitation issues and proceeded to the agreement of the draft regulations on the joint activities of the State Commission on Delimitation of the State Border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia and the Commission on Delimitation of the State Border and Border Security between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as discussed the drafts of the relevant instructions on the procedure of delimitation works.




Stock photo: Getty Images

The European Union is moving toward approval of Ukraine's reform plan in May, which would unlock an additional 1.9 billion in EU financial assistance in late spring.

Source: European Pravda, citing Bloomberg

The European Commission is examining the reform plan that Ukraine has committed to implement to receive financial aid, but the commission has no serious questions about it.

EU member states may start approving the plan as early as next month, a person familiar with the matter told the agency.

The EU has planned to allocate almost 16 billion to Ukraine this year, part of the EU's 50 billion Ukraine Facility for the 2024-2027 period.

Last month, Kyiv submitted a plan containing investment and reform proposals that would gradually unlock most of the EU's aid by 2027.

As part of the plan, the European Commission plans to disburse 1.5 billion in transitional funding in the second half of April.

The rest of the funding planned for this year will be disbursed in two tranches once the Ukrainian government has implemented the agreed reforms.

Among the agreed reforms for the second half of the year are the adoption of a medium-term state debt management strategy, a review of state budget expenditure, and an increase in staff at the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office.

EU finance ministers are expected to discuss Ukraine's plan on Friday in Luxembourg.

Ukraine has already received the first tranche of 4.5 billion of the planned EU financial assistance for this year.

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President Joe Biden told reporters Friday afternoon he expects an Iranian strike on Israel to occur "sooner than later" amid urgent concerns that Iran was about to retaliate for the bombing of its consulate in Damascus, Syria, earlier this month.

Asked for his message to Iran in the tense moment, Biden was blunt, saying simply, "Don't."

"Would the U.S. respond?" ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Mary Bruce asked repeatedly as the president walked away after the end of an unrelated event. He paused, thought for a moment and then returned to the lectern.

"We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he said.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks to the National Action Network Convention remotely from the South Court Auditorium of the White House, April 12, 2024. (Alex Brandon/AP)

MORE: Israel-Gaza live updates: Iran readies 100 cruise missiles for possible Israel strike, US says

Biden's comments come as other high-level U.S. officials worked urgently behind the scenes to pressure Iran to back down from its threat to launch a retaliatory strike -- the latest challenge facing the Biden administration as it tries to avert an all-out regional war in the Middle East.

At the same time, the U.S. was moving troops and other assets to the Middle East as Iran readied a large number of missiles and drones for a potential strike against Israel, according to U.S. officials.

The deployment of American troops was intended to try to deter Iran from launching a large-scale attack and protecting U.S. troops in the region

According to one U.S. defense official, the assets being moved to the region include both "ships and aircraft."

Two U.S. Navy destroyers already deployed in the eastern Mediterranean are equipped with the Aegis combat system, which can protect troops in the region from ballistic defense missiles.

Two U.S. officials said that Iran has readied more than a hundred cruise missiles for a possible strike.

Some 3,400 US troops are in Iraq and Syria with tens of thousands more U.S. personnel in the Middle East region.

Late Friday, as he boarded Air Force One, when asked if he was concerned about Iran killing Americans, Biden told reporters "Im always afraid of that."

Earlier Friday, White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the administration was monitoring the situation "very, very closely," and that while its top priority was ensuring Israel is able to defend itself from a potential Iranian attack, the U.S was also "doing everything we can to protect our people and our facilities."

"It would be imprudent if we didn't take a look at our own posture in the region, to make sure that we're properly prepared as well," he said.

In a sign of how seriously the U.S. views the risk of escalation, the Pentagon confirmed on Thursday that Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, the commander of U.S. Central Command, had "moved up" a previously scheduled trip to Israel to meet with senior Israeli military leaders "due to recent developments."

PHOTO: IDF Chief of the General Staff, LTG Herzi Halevi, and CENTCOM Commander, General Michael Erik Kurilla, meet with IDF officials on the IDFs readiness for defensive and offensive operations, Apr. 12, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also spoke by phone with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday afternoon "to discuss the current situation in the Middle East and to reaffirm the U.S.'s ironclad commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and its proxies," according to Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon's press secretary.

PHOTO: A picture of late senior Iranian military commander General Qassem Soleimani hangs amid rubble after what Syrian and Iranian media described as an Israeli air strike on Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital Damascus, April 1, 2024. (Firas Makdesi/Reuters)

MORE: US believes Iran could attack Israeli assets in coming days, with potential to escalate war in the region

Although the U.S. does not have direct diplomatic ties to Iran, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had been working the phones with his counterparts in countries that do -- encouraging them to use their influence to dissuade Iran from taking military action in response to the consulate bombing.

In his conversations with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, Blinken made clear "that escalation is not in anyone's interest and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate," according to Miller.

U.S. officials previously told ABC News that the administration believes Iran could retaliate against Israel in the coming days -- potentially using drones and missiles to attack "regional assets" -- and that information about the threat has been shared with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

At a White House news conference on Wednesday, President Biden said Iran was "threatening to launch a significant attack on Israel" and that he had assured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the U.S. commitment to his country's security was "ironclad."

"We're going to do all we can to protect Israel's security," he said.

PHOTO: Michael Kurilla, head of the United States Central Command meets with IDF chief Aviv Kohavi at the Nevatim airbase in Be'er Sheva, Israel, Nov. 15, 2022. (Israeli Defense Forces/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

MORE: Pentagon says Israel conducted strike against Iran in Syria

While officials say they still believe Iran may could change course, the State Department announced it had placed new restrictions on U.S. personnel in Israel on Thursday, prohibiting employees and their family members from undertaking personal travel outside of the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice.

According to a travel alert from the department, the limits were imposed "out of an abundance of caution." Miller declined to speak to any specific security assessments that motivated the change in policy but acknowledged Iran's vow for revenge.

"Clearly we are monitoring the threat environment in the Middle East and specifically in Israel, and that's what led us to give that warning to our employees and their family members and to make it public so all U.S. citizens who either live in Israel or traveling there are aware of it," he said.

The renewed concern over a widening conflict in the Middle East was sparked by a strike on an Iranian facility in Syria that Tehran says was carried out by Israel and killed 12 people, including Gen. Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior leader in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Although Israel has attacked a number of targets linked to Iran in recent years, primarily as part of its efforts to disrupt arms transfers to Hezbollah and other proxy groups in the region, the Israeli military has not taken credit for the incident in Damascus, which occurred on April 1.

ABC News' Molly Nagle contributed to this report.

Biden's message to Iran about retaliatory strike on Israel: 'Don't' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City is pictured on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020.

Utahs two law schools  the University of Utahs S.J. Quinney College of Law and Brigham Young Universitys J. Reuben Clark Law School  each ranked 28th in the nation, according to the latest U.S. News & World Reports 2024 rankings.

BYU cracked the Top 25 last year, ranking 22nd overall in U.S. News 2023 rankings. For Utah, this year was the colleges highest ranking ever, the first time it reached the top 30 and its sixth consecutive year of gains, according to Dean Elizabeth Kronk Warner. In 2023 it ranked 32nd overall.

This is a collective accomplishment that reaffirms Utah Laws position among the best law schools in the nation, Warner said.

Utah and BYU tied with the law schools of Boston College, the University of Florida and George Mason University among the ranking of 196 law schools nationwide.

BYU Law has become one of the nations leading law schools in its 50-year history, said BYU Law Dean David H. Moore.

No other law school as young as BYU Law has performed as well in the U.S. News ranking system. Rankings, of course, cannot capture all that makes a law school great. BYU Law helps students develop their full potential as lawyers, leaders and people of faith. As our mission statement declares, We seek to be and develop people of integrity who combine faith and intellect in lifelong service to God and neighbor, Moore said in a statement.

Not only does BYUs legal education consistently rank well among its peers, Moore also noted that BYU Law offers this unique education at a remarkable rate, with the lowest tuition of any private law school. A high percentage of our students graduate debt free. Not surprisingly, the school is routinely ranked as a best value law school. BYU Laws low tuition allows our graduates to prioritize many forms of success.

Several of BYUs specialty law programs ranked well nationally as well, such as its business and corporate law program, which tied for 28th overall; contracts and commercial law, which tied for 29th and 40th for tax law.

The law school celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023. Its full-time tuition for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is $15,076 annually and about double that for non members. Utahs tuition is $33,634 for resident students and $43,598 for nonresident students.

The S.J. Quinney College of Law ranked 11th among public law schools, which the college attributes to its low student-to-faculty ratio, with rated No. 2 nationwide; ranking third overall for graduates passage of Utahs bar exam the first time they take it; and ranking 20th overall and ninth among public law schools for its employment rate 10 months after graduation.

Several of Utah Laws speciality programs ranked highly as well. Its environmental law program ranked third among public law schools and seventh overall.

Its intellectual property law program ranked 10th among public schools and 26th overall.

We know that rankings are just one measure of success, and Utah Laws excellence extends far beyond the numbers, said Warner.

Our college is defined by its impact on society  our students commitment to improving communities, our facultys transformational research and teaching, our alumnis leadership across society, and our staffs tireless efforts to make this college thrive, she said.

The universitys first law school class graduated in 1913. The graduates included eight men, all from Utah, according to the law schools website.

This is not the first time Utah and BYU have tied in academic rankings. Among national colleges, both BYU and the University of Utah ranked 115th overall in U.S. News 2024 rankings.
Utah National Guard battery ranked No. 1 in the U.S.

DRAPER, Utah (ABC4)  The Utah National Guards field artillery battery has been recognized as the best in the country.

The 1st Battalion 145th Field Artillery Regiment  the Utah National Guards Alpha Battery  will receive the 2023 Alexander Hamilton Award during a ceremony at Camp Williams this weekend.

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The Alexander Hamilton Award was created in 2002 and named after the American statesman and Continental Army artilleryman.

Hamilton was an outstanding artillery battery commander and an aide to General George Washington during the Revolutionary War, the Utah National Guard said. He shaped the Constitution and served as the nations first treasury secretary.

The annual award reportedly evaluates soldiers on mission execution, training, deployment service, equipment maintenance, logistics programs, fitness, family readiness, and community service.

Soldiers from the regiment will be shooting live rounds from M109A6 Paladin howitzers as part of the award ceremony, the Utah National Guard said, so nearby residents can expect to hear artillery fire sporadically from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
ROY, Utah (ABC4)  A Roy High School student was taken into custody and booked into Weber Valley Detention on Thursday after bringing a handgun and ammunition to school on his waist.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. Thursday, the high schools resource officer received an anonymous tip that the student had brought a gun, a press release states. The high school was placed into a HOLD status while the officer and school administration responded to that students classroom.

Ruby Frankes husband sues Jodi Hildebrandt, citing emotional distress and negligence

The student was removed from the classroom and was found to be in possession of the gun and ammunition in his waistband.

In an interview with the student and his parents, the officer reportedly learned the firearm belonged to the students father. The student informed the officer that without his parents knowledge, he obtained the gun from a locked safe.

Additionally, there was information that the incident may have gang connections. The student said he brought the gun for protection, the release states.

The student was taken into custody and booked into Weber Valley Detention on gun-related charges. The officer said that there is no information that the suspect was in possession of the weapon for any other reason than protection.

Our top priority is the safety of your children, teachers and staff and maintaining a safe environment to learn and educate, the Roy City Police Department said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
VAN ETTEN, N.Y. (WETM)  A Van Etten man has pleaded guilty to criminal contempt after he violated an order of protection and damaged the persons property.

According to the Schuyler County District Attorneys Office, Joshua R. White, 38, of Van Etten, pleaded guilty to criminal contempt in the first degree, a class E felony, on Thursday, April 11, in Schuyler County Court.

Burdett man sentenced to 2 years for selling meth in Schuyler County

Whites charge stems from when he violated an order of protection by threatening and damaging a vehicle that belonged to the protected person.

White is scheduled to be sentenced in May of 2024.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Vandalization at Rutgers Islamic Center under investigation as possible bias crime

Vandalization at Rutgers Islamic Center under investigation as possible bias crime

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (PIX11)  Artwork was smashed, and porcelain and glass religious figures broken at the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University on Wednesday.

I watched in horror as we saw what happened to a space thats near and dear to our heart, said student and President of the Public Relations Council, Nora Asker.

A criminal investigation is underway as the incident is being investigated as a bias crime that took place on Eid.

Video: 2 migrants arrested at Yonkers hotel being used as shelter, police say

Artwork and porcelain, glass, and metal objects bearing Quranic verses were smashed. Rutgers students spoke up about what they described as a problem the school needs to tackle immediately.

This is kind of the result of not having an open dialog on campus. Theres a lot of tension, especially with what is going between Israel and Hamas, said Jules Sullivan.

Another student who preferred to remain anonymous said:

A lot of the students have been disappointed with the administrations reactions to what happened, and theres a consensus on where their partisanship has lined this last couple of months.

In a statement sent out to the students chancellor, Francine Conway said in part,

I unequivocally condemn this act of violence against the RutgersNew Brunswick Muslim community and the desecration of a religious and community space, she added. Such acts of hatred and bigotry against anyone in our community have no place at Rutgers and will not be tolerated.



Meanwhile, Atiya Aftab, chair of the Center for Islamic Life, said:

We will not be silenced; if you disagree with the immediate and permanent cease-fire in Palestine and the allowance of humanitarian aid, lets debate that in the halls of this university; thats what Rutgers is about. 

This incident is currently being investigated by the Rutgers Police Department. The attorney generals office issued a statement that said he would not condone acts of hate.

Rutgers University has a protocol in place to report bias crime; to learn more, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
More and more people are turning to plant-based alternatives for dairy and meat, often for environmentally conscious reasons  plant-based foods create far less pollution and planet-overheating gases than the dairy and meat industries.

However, that does not mean that all plant-based foods are equal when it comes to environmental impact. One company, the Australia-based vegan milk brand Milkadamia, is showing how to responsibly create a plant-based milk alternative.

Milkadamia focuses on farming the macadamia nuts it uses for its milk with methods that restore soil health, balance carbon levels, and support the local ecosystem.

"We always said Milkadamia is a ticket to a better future, so we can choose foods that nurture the earth, that rebuild our soils, that are grown by letting nature do what she knows best, and with care and flair," Milkadamia CEO Alexandra Newman told VegNews.

The company calls its macadamia trees "free-range trees," a somewhat tongue-in-cheek label that points to the fact that the trees thrive solely on the water they receive from rainfall, without artificial irrigation, which can have ripple effects throughout an ecosystem.

"Grown where they originated, our free-range trees are supporting life, not trees on life support," Newman said.

The company specifically called out palm oil as a plant-based ingredient that is farmed using environmentally destructive practices. Last year, Indonesia fined palm oil companies operating in its rainforests over $310 million for destroying trees.

"If you produce palm oil, you are removing the forest. This is unacceptable in our book," Newman said. "There is no such thing as sustainable tropical forest destruction. We can do better, and we are doing so when we make mindful choices each time we shop."

Which of these groups has the biggest role to play in reducing food waste?

Click your choice to see results and speak your mind

Almonds  another type of nut used for dairy-free milk alternatives  have also been pointed to as needing an excessive amount of irrigated water to farm. In California, a state already suffering from droughts, this has been a big problem.

While it is great to keep in mind that plant-based alternatives are better for the planet than dairy and meat, it is also important to stay aware of which specific companies and food sources are doing the least harm.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
One of two women brutally assaulted in separate attacks along the famed Venice Canals has been identified as a single mother known for her elaborate sand art.

Mary Klein, 54, suffered fractures to her jaw, broken teeth, a large gash on the back of her head and multiple contusions in the April 6 attack, and faces a long road to recovery, according to a friend who started a GoFundMe campaign to pay Kleins medical bills.

[Marys] spirits are strong and she is overflowing with surprise and hope that so many people are reaching out with words of strength, Kathleen Butler wrote.

Police search for man who violently assaulted 2 women at Venice Canals

Graphic photos of Kleins injuries were posted on the GoFundMe page, along with photos of her sand art depicting mermaids that she would create along the beach in Venice.

She will require many surgeries and is currently getting her jaw wired shut for at least a month. Not to mention she will, in time, need mental health support and guidance along with [physical therapy, wrote Butler, adding that Klein works as a full-time caregiver to an elderly woman with ALS and recently lost her health insurance coverage.

$11,000 had been donated as of Friday morning.

Venice Canal Attack Victim

Both attacks occurred late at night.

In the first, police say a man approached a woman from behind in the 2700 block of Strongs Drive near the Grand Canal and struck her in the head with a hard object, knocking her unconscious.

In the second incident, which occurred about an hour later, police say the same man assaulted a woman who was walking near the Sherman Canal.

The assailant is described as a Black or Hispanic male, between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet tall, and weighs between 180 and 200 pounds with short hair that appeared to be trimmed around the ears.

Venice Canal Attack Victim

After the attacks, the Los Angeles Police Department announced increased patrols around the Venice Canals.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Major U.S. airlines and aviation unions on Thursday urged the Biden administration to pause approvals of additional flights between China and the United States, citing ongoing "anti-competitive policies of the Chinese government."

In February, the U.S. Transportation Department said Chinese passenger airlines could boost weekly round-trip U.S. flights to 50 starting on March 31, up from the current 35, about a third of pre-pandemic levels. U.S. carriers were authorized as well to fly 50 flights per week but are currently not using all those flights.

Airlines for America, a trade group whose members include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, and unions in a letter to the Transportation and State departments cited the "advantage Chinese airlines receive by continuing to access Russian airspace, while U.S. carriers stopped flying through Russian airspace at the start of Russias invasion of Ukraine in March 2022."

The letter, which was first reported by Reuters, was signed by the Air Line Pilots Association, Allied Pilots Association and Association of Flight Attendants. It called on Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to "pause additional passenger flights between the United States and the Peoples Republic of China until U.S. workers and businesses are guaranteed equality of access in the marketplace, free from the existing harmful anti-competitive policies of the Chinese government."

Flights between China and the United States - which were a point of contention during the COVID-19 pandemic - have emerged as a rare area of cooperation between the two super powers, but U.S. airlines have expressed concern about the rapid pace of increasing flights.

Airlines are worried the Biden administration could boost or even double to 100 the number of weekly flights permitted by Chinese carriers.

Separately, U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher, the chair of the House select committee on China, and the panel's top Democrat, Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, urged the Biden administration in a separate letter Wednesday not to approve more flights until China abides "by its existing bilateral agreement, and passenger demand begins to recover."

The lawmakers said Chinese carriers "operate air

routes at an anticompetitive commercial advantage that must not be allowed to increase without reciprocal parity in the number of U.S. carrier operated routes" to China. It added that "American passengers must not be exposed to unnecessary security risks by traversing Russian airspace."

Story continues

More than 150 weekly round-trip passenger flights were allowed by each side before restrictions were imposed in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but until August 2023, Chinese and U.S. carriers could each fly only 12 a week between the two countries.

The number rose on Sept. 1 to 18 weekly round-trips and then to 24 per week starting Oct. 29. The USDOT approved 35 for Chinese carriers in November.

Reuters reported last June that newly approved Chinese flights to the United States were not overflying Russia, which would have given them a shorter flight time and fuel advantage over U.S. rivals blocked from Russian airspace.

(Reporting by David Shepardson in Washington; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Matthew Lewis)
The row has led to customers threatening to cancel their membership - Gallo Images

Virgin Active has angered members of its health clubs by switching to mind-numbing royalty-free music they claim is ruining its fitness classes.

Gym-goers have compared it to lift music, and say classes such as Zumba and spin are less enjoyable as they dont recognise the music.

The row has led to customers threatening to cancel their memberships and go to rival health clubs such as David Lloyd, while there has also been complaints of fitness instructors leaving the chain and classes being cancelled.

Virgin Active, which has 32 locations around the UK, moved from a licensed music system to royalty-free music on April 1st, saying it wishes to avoid legal issues for instructors and clubs.

Members, who can pay up to 371 per month for membership, say they were not consulted on the move and have set up a petition demanding they have a say on what sort of music is played in the gyms.

Jane Dawes, who set up the petition, which has now been signed by almost 2,000 people, described the new music as mediocre, dull and joyless.

Its more like background music for YouTube, she added. All the classes are affected but exercise to music is the worst, like group cycle, dance and aqua aerobics.

Jane Dawes, who set up the petition, described the new music as 'mediocre, dull and joyless'. - Gallo Images

Ms Dawes, who said she has been a member of the Fulham club for several years, added: Many gyms are communities. I meet many other mums here after the school run and if you work from home the gym can provide your social circle. However, many are leaving now, she added.

Ruby Patel, another member who has signed the petition, described the new music as dull and mind-numbing, adding that it spoils the atmosphere of the dance classes.

Others commenting on the petition on Change.org said it was like white noise and demotivating for instructors and members.

Louise Scogings, who has been a member of the Virgin Active club in Thundersley, Essex, for more than 20 years, described the new music as awful and compared it to the sort you might find in a lift.

How do they expect people to feel motivated when they have never heard of the music before? Listening to music that you like and know while exercising doesnt just relieve boredom, it motivates you to push harder, she wrote in a post on Facebook.

She told The Telegraph that there used to be eight Zumba classes available at the club each week, but since the music system has changed they have almost completely stopped.

'Three instructors have left and the only other is still getting to grips with the new music'. - Jansos / Alamy Stock Photo

Three instructors have left and the only other is still getting to grips with the new music and choreographing routines to it, she said.

Another London-based member, Sally Hismurgh, said the new music had forced out instructors.

Why introduce such a strict music policy that great dance/Zumba teachers are leaving? They are among your greatest assets, she wrote on Twitter, adding: I hear my favourite is off to David Lloyd, Im considering following him!

Responding to complainants on Twitter who questioned why the music in fitness classes had lost all personality and fun, Virgin Active said it had centralised our music offering to ensure compliance with licensing laws & platform T&Cs.

Virgin Active was contacted by the Telegraph for comment.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
VIRGINIA BEACH  A man who faced a felony manslaughter charge for his role in a deadly 2022 bar fight was instead found guilty this week of misdemeanor assault.

Wesley Horbal initially was charged with voluntary manslaughter, but prosecutors amended his indictment to involuntary manslaughter during trial this week. A jury then acquitted Horbal of that charge Thursday, choosing instead to convict him of the lesser offense.

Sentencing was set for July 10. The maximum Horbal could get is a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. If hed been convicted of manslaughter he would have faced the possibility of 10 years in prison.

Horbals lawyers, James Broccoletti and Mario Lorello, argued the incident was an accident and that their client was trying to defend himself.

Anytime a case involves a death, it is of course an absolute tragedy, Lorello said in message to The Virginian-Pilot. This was ultimately an accident. Our client was in the midst of defending himself from an unprovoked attack by a complete stranger, and the jury recognized that the evidence did not support a manslaughter charge and rightfully found him not guilty.

The incident happened Aug. 11 at CP Shuckers Cafe & Raw Bar on Shore Drive and was captured on video.

Horbal, then 26, was with some friends on the restaurants patio when J. Moore Jr., 52, threw a beer bottle in their direction. The bottle struck Horbal in the back of the head, and he went to confront Moore.

Moore swung another bottle and a fist at Horbal before a fight between the two broke out. Moore eventually broke away from the fight and was running toward the street when Horbal chased after him, grabbed him by the shirt, and then kicked him in the head after he fell to the ground.

While prosecutors argued Horbal slammed Moore to the ground, the defense contended that he fell. Moores blood alcohol was determined to be over .30%, more than three times the legal limit for driving.

Moore was taken to a hospital, where it was discovered that hed suffered a fractured skull and brain bleed. He died two weeks later. A defense expert testified that it was the fall to the ground that caused Moores death, and not the kick to the head.

Jane Harper, jane.harper@pilotonline.com
Vital traffic bridge just south of the border still not ready, more repairs needed

SAN DIEGO (Border Report)  The reopening of the Chaparral Bridge just south of the border in Tijuana has been delayed by another three months.

Tijuanas Mayor, Montserrat Caballero, told reporters on Thursday that repairs on the bridge are not finished.

Its not going to happen until June when we can use the bridge once again, said the mayor.

Early last year, a wide crack developed on the bridge, inspections revealed it was in danger of collapsing and in need of a retrofit.

Repairs began a few months later.

Caballero said the bridge, originally constructed by Mexicos federal government, would be repaired using city funding at a cost of 75 million pesos, about $4.4 million.

The project was supposed to be done in January of this year, but Caballero says more structural damage has been found along the way requiring even more repairs.

The bridge is a key link for drivers heading to and from the San Ysidro Port of Entry.

Its closure is said to be one of the reasons for the increased traffic congestion and delays in the area just south of the border.

Right now, in the evenings, southbound border traffic into Tijuana is taking up to three hours on a nightly basis.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
You know the feeling: You arrive at the airport nearly two hours early only to end up dashing to your gate like an Olympic sprinter minutes before your flight because the person in front of you in the security line just doesnt want to part with that 5-ounce shampoo bottle in their carry-on.



All of that stress makes airports natural hotbeds for tension, which is probably why there have been way too many viral videos of airport conflicts to count. Remember this one at the Spirit Airlines counter in Fort Lauderdale after flights were cancelled?

This week, a passenger captured another tense encounter between a Spirit Airlines employee and a passenger at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. And while it wasnt nearly as violent, the video, posted by @sightssoundsflavors, has received over 8 million views to date.

Its unclear what started the confrontation between the two women, but in the clip, a visibly annoyed airline employee asks a passenger for her boarding pass in a not so nice way. When the passenger complies, the employee is seen furiously writing down information from her ticket. The Spirit employee then encourages other passengers to walk around her, saying, Shes not going anywhere.

But then, the frustrated passenger appears to have had enough.

I will not miss my flight because of you, she is heard saying in the clip.

The passenger tries to move ahead in the line, only to be blocked by the Spirit employee. The employee writes a little more and then storms off leaving the passenger with a few parting words: F*ck you too, she says as she walks off.

Its not unreasonable to assume the passenger was the first to drop the F-word, which would naturally set anyone off. But the narrator of the video says he believes the employeetook the situation too far. He accused her of being on a power trip, hoping to make the passenger think she was going to miss her flight. And some in the comments agreed.

I dont know the situation, but when youre working, you can never lose it like this, even though you want to, someone posted.

We dont know whether or not the passenger was allowed to board her flight or if she had any further encounters with airline staff. But we do know that if you ever find yourself flying Spirit Airlines through Fort Lauderdale, make sure you pack your patience.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The unprecedented trials of Michigan parents James and Jennifer Crumbley, which led to the countrys first involuntary manslaughter convictions for parents of a school shooter, are the focus of an hourlong documentary premiering April 18.

In Sins of the Parents: The Crumbley Trials (streaming on Hulu), ABC News Studios obtained exclusive access to Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald and her team as they built their case against the parents of Ethan Crumbley, who at age 15 murdered four students  Tate Myre, 16; Hana St. Juliana, 14; Madisyn Baldwin, 17, and Justin Shilling, 17  at Oxford High School on November 30, 2021. At the time of the shooting,

You dont get to walk away from that; you just dont, McDonald says in a trailer for the documentary, exclusively at USA TODAY.com.

Oxford High School students Madisyn Baldwin, 17, and Tate Myre, 16, at top, and Justin Shilling, 17, and Hana St. Juliana, 14, were killed in a school shooting on Nov. 30, 2021.

The troubled shooter, who also injured seven others, was portrayed by his defense team during his trial as a lost and severely depressed teenager who was spiraling out of control in the months before the shooting, hallucinating and contemplating suicide and begging unsuccessfully for help, as he expressed in his journal and texts.

"I have fully mentally lost it after years of fighting my dark side. My parents wont listen to me about help or a therapist," Ethan Crumbley wrote in his journal.

He was crying for help and being ignored, Ven Johnson, an attorney who represented victims and their families, says in the documentary preview.

Those people are yikes, McDonald says of the Crumbley parents. The life they lived was just crazy.

Also in the trailer, McDonald expresses concern about a text in that Jennifer Crumbley sent her son after learning he'd been researching bullets in class. "LOL Im not mad," Crumbley texted. "You have to learn how to not get caught."

James and Jennifer Crumbley , parents of Michigan shooter, sentenced to 10 to 15 years in prison

Craig Shilling, father of murder victim Justing Shilling, hugs Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald after James Crumbley was found guilty on all four counts of involuntary manslaughter on March 14. Crumbley was tried for the four students killed in the 2021 Oxford High School shooting perpetrated by his son, Ethan Crumbley.

His parents "do not seem shocked about him having the gun. There was no shock, zero, says McDonald, who became visibly incensed at James Crumbleys March trial, as she focused the jury's attention on perhaps the most damning piece of evidence in the case: a troubling drawing Ethan made on the morning before the shooting on his math worksheet. It features a gun, a human body bleeding and the words: "The thoughts won't stop. Help me."

The boy's parents were summoned to the school, though the Crumbleys returned to their jobs after they met with a counselor and dean of students, vowing to get their son help within 48 hours. The school officials concluded the student was no threat to himself or others and allowed him to return to class.

Two hours later, the boy fired his first shot. Had James Crumbley taken his son's drawing more seriously and taken the boy home, McDonald argued, the tragedy could have been avoided.

James Crumbley, father of Michigan school shooter, found guilty of involuntary manslaughter

Jennifer Crumbley verdict: After historic trial, jury finds mother of school shooter guilty

The Crumbleys were convicted on four counts of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 10 to 15 years Tuesday. Ethan has been sentenced to life in prison.

Before their sentencing, Judge Cheryl Matthews addressed both parents. "Mr. Crumbley, it's clear to this court that because of you, there was unfettered access to a gun or guns, as well as ammunition in your home.

"Mrs. Crumbley, you glorified the use and possession of these weapons," she added.

The victims' families have long argued that the Crumbleys aren't the only ones who made mistakes, that school officials also were negligent and must be held accountable for their children's tragic deaths.

"While we are grateful that James and Jennifer Crumbley were found guilty, we want to be very clear that this is just the beginning of our quest for justice and true accountability," the families of the four slain students said in a joint statement after the verdict came down. "There is so much more that needs to be done to ensure other families in Michigan and across the country dont experience the pain that we feel and we will not stop until real change is made."

Contributing: Tresa Baldas, Gina Kaufman and Lily Altavena of the Detroit Free Press and Jeanine Santucci and Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA TODAY

Looking for reliable options to stream Sins of the Parents: The Crumbley Trials on Hulu? Check out USA TODAY Home Internet for broadband service plans in your area.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Crumbley Trials' trailer: Doc explores Michigan shooter parents' case
Thousands of Chileans demonstrated in Santiago on Thursday.

The demonstrators are asking for Chilean Congress to approve social reforms to bring the country out of inequality.

President Gabriel Boric promised to reform Chile's pension system and labour laws when taking power in 2022.
PANGUITCH, Utah (ABC4)  Once threatening residents of southeast Utah, the water levels at Panguitch Dam are greatly encouraged by their progress.

In an update provided Friday afternoon, the Utah Department of Public Services said the measures taken to address a crack in the dam have so far been effective. Over the last two days, the water levels at the dam have dropped close to six inches and authorities are planning to lower it by another several feet over the next week.

DPS officials said crews completed work to extend the rock supports across the affected section of the dam and ice chunks pushing against the wall have been removed. As of Friday morning, water levels dropped eight inches and crews continue to release as much water as possible.

Overall, the work has helped bring the dams eight-degree tilt back to a title of just over one-degree. DPS said that the work greatly improved the dams stability until permanent modifications can be made.

Provo Airport adds American Airlines to fleet of carriers with flights to Arizona, Texas

Aside from the crack that appeared in the expanded portion of the dam, DPS said no infrastructure has been damaged or lost. The increased flow into Panguitch Creek did cause some minor washouts but those issues were managed and controlled. Officials said there is no reason to believe there will be any catastrophic problems.

As concerns over a potential breach and flooding ease, the evacuation notice for Panguitch City and its surrounding areas has been lifted. In addition, SR-143 has been reopened to regular traffic, though certain areas, such as North Shore Road and the area around Panguitch Lake remain closed.

Marilyn Bulkley Park will also be closed until further notice and crews are not allowing for ice fishing on Panguitch Lake.

I am confident with the result of our mitigation efforts to effectively reduce the pressure on the Panguitch Lake dam and the potential for an uncontrolled release, said Garfield County Sheriff Eric Houston. That work allows us to lift the evacuation notice, but I do urge people to stay prepared for this and other types of hazards.

Authorities still urge community members to stay informed and stay ready. For anyone who still wishes to be prepared, sand and sandbags are available at the local LDS church house at 550 South 100 West.

Emergency crews will remain on scene and continue monitoring the dam as the spring runoff begins. Once the runoff starts to slow down, engineering and plans will be developed for permanent repairs to the cracked areas of the Panguitch Lake Damn.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (WETM)  A Watkins Glen man pleaded guilty on Thursday to an incident back in November where county officials say he had stolen property in his possession.

According to the Schuyler County District Attorneys Office, 38-year-old Kyle K. Rogers pleaded guilty on Thursday, April 11, to the charge of criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree, a class D felony.

Previous Post: Two arrested for possession of stolen $10,000 trailer from Horseheads

Rogers was sentenced as a second felony offender to two and a half to five years in state prison.

Documents say the charge comes from Rogers having a trailer that was reported stolen to New York State Police back in November 2023 worth around $10,000.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
When a single insider purchases stock, it is typically not a major deal. However, when multiple insiders purchase stock, like in Centurion Corporation Limited's (SGX:OU8) instance, it's good news for shareholders.

Although we don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

See our latest analysis for Centurion

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Centurion

Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by insider Kim Kang Loh for S$531k worth of shares, at about S$0.43 per share. That means that an insider was happy to buy shares at around the current price of S$0.43. That means they have been optimistic about the company in the past, though they may have changed their mind. We do always like to see insider buying, but it is worth noting if those purchases were made at well below today's share price, as the discount to value may have narrowed with the rising price. The good news for Centurion share holders is that insiders were buying at near the current price.

In the last twelve months Centurion insiders were buying shares, but not selling. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date!

Centurion is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying.

Insiders At Centurion Have Bought Stock Recently

It's good to see that Centurion insiders have made notable investments in the company's shares. In total, insiders bought S$579k 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.

Does Centurion Boast High Insider Ownership?

For a common shareholder, it is worth checking how many shares are held by company insiders. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. It appears that Centurion insiders own 20% of the company, worth about S$74m. While this is a strong but not outstanding level of insider ownership, it's enough to indicate some alignment between management and smaller shareholders.

So What Do The Centurion Insider Transactions Indicate?

It's certainly positive to see the recent insider purchases. And the longer term insider transactions also give us confidence. Insiders likely see value in Centurion shares, given these transactions (along with notable insider ownership of the company). In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Centurion. Case in point: We've spotted 4 warning signs for Centurion you should be aware of, and 2 of them are concerning.

Story continues

If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
After weeks of tense negotiations, a new transitional framework for governing Haiti over the next two years and creating a path toward eventual elections was officially created Friday.

An executive order formally establishing the new nine-member transitional presidential council was published in Haitis official gazette, the Moniteur. The publication officially creates the new executive panel that will share power with a newly appointed prime minister.

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But first the new council will need to be sworn in, with some members insisting it take place inside the National Palace, which has been under a barrage of attacks by armed gangs seeking to take control of the nations symbol of power. After their swearing in, members will choose a president among their seven representatives with voting powers, and then begin the difficult task of finding a replacement for outgoing Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

Henry was forced to resign last month by Washington at the insistence of Caribbean Community leaders, who had grown weary of him as a powerful consortium of gangs demanded his ouster. The gangs led coordinated attacks on key government infrastructure in Port-au-Prince while Henry was on a visit to Kenya to shore up a deal for the deployment of an international force to Haiti.

Though the new council had written its own order to be published, Henrys outgoing government opted for a more streamlined seven-page version after some ministers expressed discomfort over the constitutionality of the new executive authority and the considerable amount of power theyve given themselves.

In trying to stay as close to the Haitian constitution as possible and to what was agreed upon in Jamaica last month, when the political deal was brokered with the help of the 15-member Caribbean Community, CARICOM, Henrys government also decided to publish two separate decrees. The first one, issued on Friday, names the nine sectors that will be represented on the presidential council. A second order on the rules and procedures of the presidential council is expected to be published on Saturday. It is supposed to also have the actual names of the representatives on the panel.

In a statement, Caribbean leaders said the establishment of the nine-member broad-based, politically inclusive council signals the possibility of a new beginning for Haiti.

It is also clear that one of the first priorities of the newly installed presidential council will be to urgently address the security situation so that Haitians can go about their daily lives in a normal manner; safely access food, water and medical services; children can return to school; women can move around without fear of horrific abuses; and so that businesses can reopen.

The regional grouping said it stands ready to assist Haiti in what will still be daunting challenges ahead.

State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller, late Friday, also said the United States remains committed to supporting the councils mission with CARICOM and partners. The council, Miller said, helps pave the way for free and fair elections and the expedited deployment of a Multinational Security Support mission.

We applaud Haitians for their commitment to move forward in a spirit of reconciliation and national dialogue, he said. The security situation in Haiti remains untenable due to the violence caused by gangs that claim to represent the Haitian people but thrive on violence and misery. Gangs have shut down key infrastructure and economic sites that are lifelines for fuel, humanitarian aid, and other vital supplies, and continue to strip Haitians of their rights to food, education, and healthcare.

Henry announced on March 11 that he would resign once the presidential council is installed. But under the decree published by his council of ministers, Henry and his government will remain in power until a new prime minister is named, in order to ensure a continuity of governance in the volatile country.

This means that both the new leadership structure and the outgoing one will have to find a way to cooperate as Port-au-Prince continues to be overrun by ruthless gangs that have forced the shutdown of the main international airport and seaport for more than a month.

The councils creation comes more than a month after Caribbean leaders, with support from the United States and other nations, brokered the political deal during an emergency meeting in Kingston with Haitis warring political factions.

The Haitian representatives, unable to leave Haiti, participated on a video call. On the call were members of a coalition that supported Henry, but also many others who had been fighting to take the helm of the countrys leadership since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

About two months before his death, Moise had tapped Henry, a neurosurgeon, to serve as his seventh prime minister in four years. But Moise was killed before he could officially install Henry. The timing raised questions about Henrys legitimacy and opened the U.S., the United Nations, Canada and France to criticism after they backed Henrys appointment following a power struggle among interim prime minister Claude Joseph and the head of the Haitian Senate, Joseph Lambert.

Lambert has since been sanctioned by the Biden administration. Joseph, who launched his own political party, has emerged as a major player and power-broker in the new presidential councils formation.

Overcoming conflict among themselves and paralysis within the governing framework will be key for the members of the new transition panel, given the deepening crisis facing Haiti. Since Feb. 29, an alliance of armed groups have launched an unprecedented wave of violence in the country that has led to the month-long shutdown of both the international and domestic airports in Port-au-Prince, the main seaport and major businesses. Hospitals, schools, police stations and private businesses have been looted and burned, and a raid of the countrys two largest prisons led to the escape of more than 4,000 inmates.

This morning, our colleagues at the International Organization for Migration told us that since the end of February, because of insecurity, close to 95,000 people have left Port-au-Princes metropolitan area to seek refuge in the provinces, Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told journalists in New York on Thursday, ahead of the publication of the order. As we have been telling you, those communities also that are trying to absorb the displaced people are already under stress.

With violence plunging Haiti deeper into a humanitarian catastrophe, the United Nations World Food Program warned this week that it could soon run out of food by months end. The U.N. says more than 360,000 people have been forced to abandon their homes over the last three years by gang violence. More than 160,000 in the capital are living in squalid displacement camps. As of late March more than 1,550 Haitians have been killed and 800 injured as a result of the violence.

When the violent uprising began, Henry was in Kenya signing an agreement for the deployment of a Multinational Security Support mission. But that mission has since been put on hold by the East African nation, citing Henrys announcement of his resignation.

Though it was anticipated that the new council would allow for the rapid deployment of the mission, that now appears to be questionable. Not only does the mission continue to face roadblocks on funding, but some members of the presidential council have expressed a desire to go a different route. And there is no specific mention of the Kenya-led security mission in the councils newly forged Political Agreement for a Peaceful and Orderly Transition, which will guide the next moves.

Instead, council members and the groups they represent are talking about restoring public security and defining with international partners the conditions for effective support to Haitian security forces, respecting national sovereignty. In another section of the agreement, they speak of the creation of a National Security Council that will define the cooperation with international partners.

Soon after the creation of the presidential council, the White House announced that President Joe Biden, using a little known presidential authority, had ordered Secretary of State Antony Blinken to use $60 million for equipment and training for the new Multinational Security Support mission for Haiti.
A Weis Market in Lebanon to get a remodel this spring, expanding offerings

The Weis Markets grocery store on South 12th Street in Lebanon will be getting a facelift, the company announced on April 8.

The project will include new decor, increased selections in organic and natural products and specialty cheeses, as well as a new beer and wine cafe, offering a large variety of premium, craft and imported beers and imported and domestic wines.

The Weis Markets store on South 12th Street will be getting a remodel, planning to finish later this spring, the company announced on April 8.

Customers will will be able to purchase beer and wine for on-premisis consumption and takeaway.

The store will remain open for the duration of the remodel and is planned to be completed later this spring.

We are excited to provide an upgraded shopping experience to our Lebanon customers, Weis Markets Senior Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing Bob Gleeson said in a news release. From a new beer and wine cafe to increased and expanded variety, our shoppers will enjoy extra convenience and selection when they visit our store.

Daniel Larlham Jr. is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at DLarlham@LDNews.com or on X @djlarlham.

This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Weis Market in Lebanon PA to get a remodel this spring
Israel is braced for an attack by Iran as warnings grew of retaliation for the killing last week of a senior officer in Irans embassy in Damascus, despite efforts from Washington and its allies to try and avert a wider war across the Middle East.

Israel has said it is ready to defend itself from any reprisals over a strike on the Iranian consulate in the Syrian capital on 1 April that killed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi and six other officers. While Israel has not spoken about the attack, it is believed they carried it out. Tehran has vowed to respond. Western nations fear that an already volatile situation in the region, thanks to the conflict in Gaza, could quickly spiral further.

CBS, quoting two unnamed US officials, reported that an attack, potentially containing up to 100 drones and missiles could come as early as Friday night. The official added that there was still a possibility Iran could decide to hold back.

John Kirby, the retired US Navy rear admiral who serves as Joe Bidens national security communications adviser, declined to go into detail regarding the intelligence on which American officials are basing their assessment of Tehrans intentions when pressed on the matter during a White House press briefing on Friday. But he said the US is looking at its own force posture in the region in light of Tehrans threat and is watching the situation very closely.

He referred reporters to remarks Mr Biden had made alongside Japanese prime minister Kishida Fumio, in which Mr Biden had reiterated what he described as an ironclad American commitment to Israels defence and vowed that the US would do all we can to protect Israels security.

On Friday evening Mr Biden also said: We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed.

Mr Kirby added: We are certainly mindful of a very public and what we consider to be a very credible threat made by Iran in terms of potential attacks on Israel, and that we are in constant communication with our Israeli counterparts about making sure that they can defend themselves against those kinds of attacks.

Mr Kirby also told reporters that US officials do believe that this is still a viable threat from Tehran and stressed that the Biden administration is doing everything we can to make sure that Israel can defend itself, citing the presence of General Michael Kurilla, the head of US Central Command, in Israel to meet with and advise his Israeli counterparts.

Though the White House spokesperson demurred when asked if Mr Biden would have anything further to say about the issue, he stressed that the president is being briefed by the national security team, multiple times a day, in terms of what were seeing and has kept himself completely informed.

He has made it clear to the entire national security team that we will take seriously our commitments to the defence of Israel, Mr Kirby said.

India and France issued pleas to its citizens not to travel to the region on Friday, while the UK and Germany warned Iran not to escalate tensions.

India advised its citizens against travelling to Iran and Israel until further notice in view of the prevailing situation in the region.

Indias foreign ministry said its citizens in the two countries should observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum.

The French foreign ministry advised French citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories amid Irans threats against its regional adversary.

In a statement on social media platform X, the French foreign ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and that French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories.

On Thursday, the US State Department barred diplomatic staff and their families in Israel from travelling outside of the cities of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beer Sheva.

The security alert did not mention Iran directly but it followed a warning from Tehran that they would punish those it viewed as responsible for the attack in Syria.

Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beer Sheva areas until further notice, the US embassy warning read.

The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events.

Russia has also issued similar travel advisories for their staff and citizens in the region.
US expects Iran to carry out direct attack on Israel, sources say, as Biden warns dont

The US expects that Iran will carry out strikes against multiple targets inside Israel in the coming days and is prepared to help intercept any weapons launched at its ally, sources tell CNN, as the Biden administration is on high alert for what could be the eruption of a significantly volatile and unpredictable period in the Middle East.

President Joe Biden on Friday predicted that Irans attacks were coming sooner than later and sought to once again issue a stern public warning, saying that his message to Tehran was simply: Dont.

The beginning of a state-on-state conflict between Iran and Israel would mark a serious escalation in the region  a scenario that the US has hoped to avoid since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October.

As of late Friday, the US believed that Iranian proxies could also be involved in the forthcoming attacks, according to a senior administration official and a source familiar with the intelligence, and that targets would likely be both inside Israel and around the region. The US readiness to intercept weapons launched at Israel marked a clear indication of the level of ongoing cooperation between the two militaries.

The US had observed Iran moving military assets around internally, including drones and cruise missiles, signaling that it was preparing to attack Israeli targets from inside its own territory, according to two people familiar with US intelligence. One of the people said that the US had observed Iran readying as many as 100 cruise missiles.

It was not clear whether Iran was preparing to strike from its soil as part of an initial attack, or if it was posturing to try to deter Israel or the US from conducting a possible counter strike on its territory.

At the White House Friday, Biden  responding to shouted questions from reporters including whether US troops were at risk  emphasized his administrations commitment to Israels security.

We are devoted to the defense of Israel, he said. We will support Israel we will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed.

There remains a real, credible and viable threat of Iran launching strikes, the White House said Friday, following Israels attack on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria last week that killed three Iranian generals.

Biden, who warned this week that Iran was threatening a significant attack on Israel, has been receiving constant updates on the situation from his national security team.

The US and several other countries, including Britain and France, issued new travel guidelines for government employees in Israel as the Iranian threat loomed.

Were watching this very, very closely, said John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, who declined to provide information about the expected timing of the threat.

US Navy forces in the Red Sea have previously intercepted long-range missiles launched from the Houthis in Yemen towards Israel. US forces in Iraq and Syria could also potentially intercept drones and rockets targeting northern Israel, depending on the location from which theyre launched.

The Defense Department is also moving additional assets to the Middle East region to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces, a US defense official told CNN, as Israel and the US brace for a potential Iranian attack.

The Pentagon has been working specifically to bolster air defenses for the US troops stationed in Iraq and Syria who came under attack by Iran-backed proxy forces over 100 times between October and February. In January, three US servicemembers were killed when a drone got through US air defenses at the Tower 22 base in Jordan.

The US is not anticipating that Iran or its proxies will attack US forces as part of its retaliation but is moving the assets just in case.

It would be imprudent if we didnt take a look at our own posture in the region to make sure that were properly prepared, Kirby said.

CNN reported last week that the US was on high alert and actively preparing for an attack by Iran targeting Israeli or American assets in the region. Officials said such an attack could come within the week.

Sources say Iran wary of dramatic escalation

CNN reported earlier this week that an Iranian attack on Israel would likely be carried out by Iranian proxy forces in the region rather than by Iran directly, according to two people familiar with US intelligence on the matter.

Tehran is wary of a dramatic escalation in the fighting, the sources said, and does not want to give the US or its allies an excuse to attack Iran directly.

The sources said Iran and its proxy militia groups do not appear poised to attack US troops or other assets in the region, but they noted that Iran does not have perfect command and control over all its proxy forces, so the possibility of an attack on US assets cannot be completely ruled out.

The sources told CNN that US intelligence assesses that Iran has urged several of its proxy militia groups to simultaneously launch a large-scale attack against Israel, using drones and missiles, and that they could attack as soon as this week.

The threat is very clear and credible, said one of the sources. They have put the pieces in place to conduct the attack now. Just waiting for the right time.

Biden spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, about the threat of an Iranian attack during a telephone call last week.

A direct strike on Israel by Iran is one of the worst-case scenarios the Biden administration is bracing for, as it would guarantee rapid escalation of an already tumultuous situation in the Middle East. Such a strike could lead to the Israel-Hamas war broadening into a wider, regional conflict  something Biden has long sought to avoid.

Biden is receiving briefings multiple times a day on the situation, Kirby said.

Kirby said Friday that US officials were in constant communication with their Israeli counterparts about the matter and that steps were underway to ensure Israel is able to defend itself.

We are certainly mindful of a very public and what we consider to be a very credible threat made by Iran in terms of potential attacks on Israel, Kirby said Friday.

He pointed to a visit to Israel on Friday by US Central Command chief Gen. Erik Kurilla to have those conversations directly with his IDF counterparts.

Kurillas trip to Israel was moved up because of the expectation of an Iranian response to Israels targeting of the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria last week.

There have also been a number of conversations in which US officials have urged Israel not to escalate the situation in retaliating against Iran, according to one of the US officials said.

Separately, US officials were frustrated with their Israeli counterparts over the lack of information Israel shared prior to carrying out the strike in Damascus last week, sources told CNN. Israel only informed a US official when its planes were already in the air en route to Syria, another US official said.

We were not aware that Israel was going to carry out this airstrike in advance, the official said. Minutes before it happened and when Israeli planes were already in the air, Israel reached out to a U.S. official to say they were in the process of conducting a strike in Syria. It did not include any details on who they were targeting or where it would be conducted, and the strike was already underway before word could be passed through the U.S. government.

Diplomatic pressure

Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with the foreign ministers of Turkey, China and Saudi Arabia to urge them to press Iran not to escalate the conflict in the Middle East after threats made by Iran against Israel, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Thursday.

Miller said the US has also engaged with European allies and partners over the past few days to deliver a similar message on Iran. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron have both spoken to the Iranian foreign minister in recent days.

Blinken has been making clear to every country that has any semblance of a relationship with Iran that it is in their interest to use that relationship to send a message to Iran that they should not escalate this conflict. But I will let those countries speak for themselves about what action they may or may not take, Miller said.

The US State Department has restricted the travel of US government personnel in Israel in the wake of public threats against Israel by Iran.

Out of an abundance of caution, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Beer Sheva areas until further notice, a security alert posted by the US Embassy Thursday said, U.S. government personnel are authorized to transit between these three areas for personal travel.

The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events, the alert noted.

France has advised its citizens to absolutely refrain from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories due to the risk of military escalation, the French Foreign Ministry said Friday.

The ministry added that families of diplomatic staff in the Iranian capital Tehran will be returned to France and civil servants will be banned from work missions to those countries and territories.

The French foreign minister issued the new recommendation following a crisis meeting on the region, the ministry said in a post on X.

This headline and story have been updated with additional developments.

CNNs Oren Liebermann, Zachary Cohen, Jennifer Hansler and Piper Hudspeth Blackburn contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The White House stressed Friday that the bill to reauthorize the United Statess warrantless surveillance authority is critical to U.S. national security, just after the House advanced it and ahead of an expected final vote later in the day.

Obviously we strongly support the bipartisan effort to get 702 reauthorized, national security communications adviser John Kirby told reporters. It is vital to our ability to defend ourselves, defend  the American people, and we very much want to see it move forward  get extended and move forward.

He added that the White House supports a lot of the reforms made to the bill. Earlier Friday, the House passed the bill  which reauthorizes Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for two years  in a 213-208 vote. Conservatives earlier this week blocked a previous version of the bill.

Kirby was asked about the bill in the context of the viable threat he described about a potential attack from Iran on Israel.

Kirby said Section 702 is critical for all threats, not just any particular one threat. He added that the U.S. is monitoring the Iranian threat very, very closely.

Section 702 allows for the warrantless surveillance of foreigners located abroad. Kirby outlined that Section 702 contributed to the U.S. strike that killed al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, as well as the ability to identify who was behind the ransomware attack against Colonial Pipeline, uncover Russias actions in Ukraine, and disrupt an assassination plot on U.S. soil against a dissident by a hostile foreign power.

Congress is facing an April 19 deadline to reauthorize the program, and a final vote on the legislation is slated for later Friday. Nineteen Republicans tanked a procedural vote Wednesday after former President Trump derailed a compromise bill by urging Congress to kill FISA in a post on his Truth Social account.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Members of hate group carried out months of intimidation, hate and violence, according to lawsuit (Department of Justice)

Members of an Ohio church filed a federal lawsuit on Wednesday against hate group White Lives Matter Ohio, alleging that its members carried out a months-long campaign of intimidation, hate and violence culminating in March 2023, when Aimenn Penny tried to burn the house of worship for hosting a drag event.

Using photos and evidence from their own statements, social media messages and hate literature, the complaint we filed today meticulously documents how members of a local White Lives Matter chapter conspired to deprive members of the Community Church of Chesterland of their church property, said James Pasch, senior director of national litigation at the Anti-Defamation League, which helped bring the lawsuit alongside law firm Jones Day.

Their resultant actions in targeting a community church with a hate crime are not just morally abhorrent, they are a clear violation of federal civil rights and property law.

The suit names Penny, who was sentenced earlier this year to 216 months in prison after pleading guilty to separate federal charges related to the attempted fire-bombing.

Three others are listed as defendants: Brandon and Sherri Perdue, as well as Chris Uthe, the apparent leader of the Ohio group.

The Independent attempted to contact Penny, Mr Uthe, and the Perdues but did not receive a response.

A social media profile on Gab, which appears to be linked to Mr Perdue, contains in its bio a link to the White Lives Matter Ohio Telegram chat.

The complaint lays out months of the extremist groups alleged activity, from handing out flyers filled with racist and homophobic statements to clashing with counter-protesters, to pressuring a Unitarian Universalist church to cancel a drag event.

The group allegedly sought to recruit new members after the alleged killing of a white woman by a Black man in the state in January 2023 and tried to find new members at a gun show in March 2023.

In addition to these in-person activities, the filing also details extensive activities on social media, including Telegram.

The Community Church of Chesterland attracted the groups attention when it announced plans to host multiple drag events on 1 April, 2023, as part of its mission to welcome all, love all, and seek justice for all.

The church received a deluge of threatening messages online and via voicemail ahead of the event, according to the complaint.

Penny has previously pleaded guilty to attempting on 25 March, 2023 to use two Molotov cocktails to burn down the church.

The attack scorched the churchs front door and a banner hanging over the facility.

The suit seeks a jury trial on five counts: conspiracy to interfere with civil rights; conspiracy to prevent freedom of access to a place of religious worship; civil liability for vandalism, desecration, or ethnic intimidation; trespass to land; and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

According to the ADL, White Lives Matter Ohio is part of a white supremacist network responsible for 160 incidents of racist propaganda in 2023.
Donald Trump recently announced the God Bless the USA Bible, which puts the Old and New testaments inside the same binding as the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Trump is a man defined by material wealth. He has credible charges of adultery and sexual assault, and five children from three wives. He is rarely seen in church and routinely avoids questions about the Bible hes selling. Trump polls well with church-attending Christians. Evangelicals form the core of his base. How does the former president elicit respect from the most conservative of Christians?

Instead of a clash of values, our research shows that Trumps support among the religious right demonstrates the principle of cognitive consistency. People are strongly motivated by consistency  we want to think well of our friends and are disturbed by the victories of our rivals. The misbehavior of musicians affects our love of their music. Athletes who flee from car accidents make it harder to root for their team.

The desire for consistency shapes the way we perceive the world. Vegetarians come to think that meat tastes bad because it comes from animals. Weightlifters come to enjoy muscle pain because means progress. Commuting cyclists believe that fluorescent yellow looks good on them.

It is this consistency motivation that leads people to see connections between emotional attitudes. We expect our favorite actors to share our politics. We think good-looking people are intelligent and that attractive packaging indicates a quality product. These connections are based on matched feelings rather than rational thought, but they feel sensible and correct.

As psychologists, we have been researching how emotional connections arise. We recruited committed Christians online and asked them how positively they felt about Trump and how positively they felt about their Christian faith. The people who felt most strongly about their faith and positively about Trump felt the two were connected  they said that Trump had promoted Christianity at home and abroad, that Trump was a man of faith and especially that Christianity had been made stronger by Trumps presidency. Because they loved both Trump and Christianity, they come to see them as belonging together.

If one is committed to both conservative politics and evangelical Christian faith, we must discover a way to reconcile the two. Conservative Christians have come to see the former president as a heavenly conduit, that Donald Trump is Gods earthly instrument. But more liberal Christians did not see Trump as Christian. Consistency led them to disconnect their beloved religion from politics.

Bush, Cheney, 9/11 and Saddam Hussein

Weve seen this kind of emotion-based connection in politics before. One way the George W. Bush-Dick Cheney administration promoted the invasion of Iraq in 2003 following the terrorist attacks of 9/11 was by connecting them to the Iraqi leader, Saddam Hussein. The president and vice president routinely mentioned Saddam and the terror attacks in the same breath. They took pains to present Saddam as a terrible person, implementer of torture and possessor of weapons of mass destruction. (There was no need to convince Americans that 9/11 was a terrible thing.)

In an experiment at the University of Kansas, we had people think of how bad Saddam was and how bad 9/11 was in quick succession. The emotional connection of dreadful things substituted for the complete lack of actual connection between Iraq and the 9/11 terrorists, and increased support for the invasion of Iraq. The same strategy seemed to work for the Bush-Cheney administration. Strongly-matched feelings form relationships.

These connections are not limited to conservatives. People who love organic food often believe it is more nutritious, despite the negligible evidence that it is nutritionally superior. Powerful emotions manufacture links  theyre sensible, but they are not rational.

Emotions are powerful, and they sell products, candidates and ideas. Our research didnt invent new techniques, but it does highlight how irrational connections can emerge in ways that confound those who dont share the emotions. Politics makes strange bedfellows, and love can bring togetherness in the most peculiar of matches.

Christian Crandall is a professor of psychology at the University of Kansas and past president of the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues. He co-authored this with Samuel Arnold, a graduate student in social psychology at the University of Kansas.
Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledges supporters at the conclusion of a campaign rally at the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel on January 17, 2024 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Credit - Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox.

College leaders, their lobbyists, and their donors have been nursing for months a low-simmering anxiety about what a second Donald Trump term would mean for their institutions. Academia had already been worried about Trumps vows to replace the accreditation system to favor more pro-American footing and to install a punitive regime of taxes and fines against schools he sees as too woke. Then, Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, Israel responded with overwhelming force, and the landscape of the American political dynamics over college campuses heading toward Novembers election were sharpened.

As much as state, local, and campus leaders want to believe they are autonomous from Washingtons reach, thats merely a myth. While colleges and universities tend to be liberal enclaves positioned as safe spaces away from Trumpism and welcoming to edicts from Democratic administrations, that has long made them a favorite target of the MAGA movement even before it had a name. Now, with Trump the presumptive Republican Party nominee for the White House, college leaders have to pay attention to what hes threatening.

The tape from Trumps first term is there for all to see. Trumps Education Department issued rules that established quasi-judicial systems for those accused of sexual assault on campus, giving the alleged violator rights for the first time and narrowing the definition of sexual assault. He banned universities that engaged in DEI programming from receiving federal dollars, made it more difficult for international students to attend U.S. campuses, and tied conservatives free speech rights to research dollars. His Department of Justice joined efforts to eliminate affirmative action programs, his Education Department made it easier for for-profit and online colleges to be treated as full-fledged institutions, and poorly performing career-focused programs were folded back into the funding mix after being called scams by the Obama-era regulators. On top of that, he openly threatened colleges tax-exempt status and told the Treasury Department to look into indoctrination efforts on campuses.

Put plainly: mainstream academic institutions have seen how Trumps agenda has run counter to theirs, and theyre watching Trump on the 2024 campaign trail promising an even more aggressive posture against the basic tenets of academia and even their survival. An open war with Trumpism is one academia cannot win, but the potential of his looming return to the Oval Office is also not to be ignored.

If youre a college president, youre holding onto your desk very tightly, says Michael Itzkowitz, a deputy chief of staff for higher educations office in the Obama-era Department of Education and now the founder and president of the HEA Group, a consulting firm. A second Trump term could mean a disaster for those who care about student success. A second Trump term opens the door to a lot of bad actors, bad policies, and subpar institutions.

If Trump were to win the presidency again, hed regain enormous power over the countrys universities for another four years and put his imprint on its graduates for far longer. The pot of federal dollars available to universitiesespecially after 2013s student loan refurb shrunk private lenders share of the higher-ed market to only about 13% and leaves the bulk of student debt on the federal ledgeris already distributed with strings attached, giving the U.S. Department of Education an unrivaled flex often under the premises of equity. The departments Office for Civil Rights is often considered the second-largest such sub-agency in all of government, with a to-do list touching everything from lesson plans, school sports, bathrooms, bullying, and fair spending from pre-K to graduate studies. If colleges and their students want cash, they have to comply with some government edicts. On top of that, federal research dollars flow to college labs and institutes. More than half of the annual $90 billion in total academic spending on R&D in the country comes from the federal budget, according to a report published last year. That pipeline is the lifeblood of major universities and boutique liberal arts colleges alike. Plus, money authorized in pandemic-era and -aftermath spending packages are still getting shipped to bursars offices.

Trumps second-term agenda includes a host of ideas that higher-ed execs are already bracing against.

The time has come to reclaim our once great educational institutions from the radical Left, and we will do that, Trump said last year. Our secret weapon will be the college accreditation system.

Accreditation councils are one of most widely respected safeguards against fly-by-night organizations to scam students and taxpayers. (Trump University, for instancewhich under a settlement that admitted no wrongdoing but had to repay $21 million to attendees who claimed fraud and $4 million to the New York Attorney Generals officewas never accredited and thus ineligible for federal student aid or funding.) Trump has vowed to fire existing accreditors and direct his Education Department to only consider the verdicts of his favored reviewers, presumably punishing elite universities and rewarding rightwing degree mills.

On top of that, Trump has demanded universities purge DEI administrators, offer discounted just-the-highlights degree options, and teach a curriculum that boosts the American tradition and Western civilization. He has vowed to purge radical zealots and Marxists from the Education Department. On the campaign trail, he made a far-fetched pledge to scrap the Education Department entirely.

Trumps boldest idea is a national American Academy, a free, full degree-awarding, online university that would be a ballast against universities that he deems too woke. Such an effort would be cost-prohibitive even in a Republican-controlled Congress; theres simply no way the project could be funded by taxing, fining, and suing existing rivals. Even the conservative Wall Street Journal editorial board flagged this as a bad idea. A single national curriculum is anathema to most conservatives, and Democrats wouldnt have to spend more than 10 minutes on a Zoom brainstorming session to figure out how to brand this a MAGA indoctrination agenda.

I don't think many people are making serious plans for the federal government to start a university. There are plenty of other things to do, says Michael Brickman, a top adviser to the Undersecretary of Education during the Trump years.

Brickman, now a fellow at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, points instead to the accreditation changes as a more serious effort that could force new approaches. Is there a problem in higher education accountability, and is part of that problem accreditation? Yeah. Youd better believe it, he says. For the first time in many decades, there are new colleges and universities. There are new accreditation agencies. I think everybody, regardless of their political views, would like to see some more innovation and some new things attempted in higher education to better serve learners. But the reality is that brand new ideas dont generally come from incumbent players.

For Trump and his quest to keep his base engaged, pitchforks on the campus quad is a good visual, even if the slice of white voters who didnt go to college shrinks with each passing election. In 2016, Trump carried all non-college educated voters by seven points, but in 2020, he carried them by just two points. Trumps team needs the people he once famously called the very poorly educated to show up again, and railing against colleges might be one viable route.

The Hamas attack and Israeli response refocused and ramped-up Trumps ire on institutions of higher education. On that bloody day that killed 1,163 Israelis and the ensuing six months that have left almost 33,500 Palestinians dead, the latest war in the Middle East became a political issue for this election yearespecially on college campuses, where justification of Hamas shocking strike, criticism of Israels response, and the overall environment could often slide into antisemitism.

It gave Trump and some of his most powerful campaign messages yet in what was already fertile territory.

In three of the last five reports that the Anti-Defamation League released detailing its annual audit of domestic antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and assault, the sum set records. And the nations most significant civil rights group focused on combating antisemitism, extremism, and bigotry has not yet tallied the numbers for 2023. On college campuses, students of all backgrounds acknowledge the climate has not improved for members of the Jewish faith. Since the start of the current academic year, ADLs survey of Jewish college students found 73% have seen firsthand some form of antisemitism. And since Oct. 7, the share of Jewish students who reported being comfortable with others on campus knowing their faith dropped by a dramatic half.

In recent weeks, Americans have been horrified to see students and faculty at Harvard and other once-respected universities expressing support for the savages and jihadists who attacked Israel, Trump wrote in November on social media.

His allies saw it happening in real time. They made serious bank by getting in on the action; Rep. Elise Stefaniks grilling of college presidents about antisemitism on campuses resulted in two Ivy League leaders resignationsincluding at Harvardand helped her raise more than $5 million in the last three months of 2023. In the first quarter of this year, that number reached $7 million.

Trumps base was already primed. According to Gallup polling, confidence in higher education has withered from 56% among Republicans in 2015 to just 19% last year. Among those without a college degree, that number has dropped from 54% to 29% during the same period.

Universities are scrambling to push back against Trump and figure out what happens next. Take Harvard, the go-to example of higher education and often the target of conservatives ire. Their president, Claudine Gay, was one of three campus leaders hauled before Congress to address antisemitism on campusand she resigned in the aftermath. Now, as The Crimson reports, the selection of her permanent successor is being driven in no small measure by worries on its board about Trumps return to power. If Trump returns, defending the flagship U.S. institution is a far different job than one working in tandem with a friendly Biden team.

Harvard isnt alone. Scores of colleges are hiring K Street lobbyists, messaging mavens, and lawyers to help them navigate the fraught political landscape. The K Street spinners are helping colleges review their policies and leadership statements for potential problems to fix before they are used to justify objectionable behavior or alienate donors. The audience isnt the faculty lounge any more. You have to assume a bad-faith reading of everything that is put on paper, says one progressive consultant who is versed in higher-ed politics and pitching existing colleges federal-relations officials. Everything is political right now. And the other side knows it.

On the trail, Trump seems eager to pick these fights, aware that colleges have always been a perfect proxy for his broader culture war. Colleges are a convenient and tangible stand-in for what his allies have smeared as wokeism. Theyre also a place where progressive policies addressing race and gender are common. In fact, Trumps team is openly telegraphing that a second-term agenda would turn the Department of Justices civil rights office on its headto defend the rights of white Americans left out by plans meant to increase inclusion for groups that have historically been discriminated against.

Still, Trump may have diagnosed a serious problem by aiming his ire at college campuses in buckshot. Such a widespread crumbling confidence in higher education across the country is no accident. Colleges have been slow to respond, and the Israel-Hamas war has made campus climates more than a CPAC applause line and now a mainstream worry for voters.

Education policy is never going to break the list of top issues determining the election in 2024, but it could give a whole lot of voters pauseparticularly as one candidate capitalizes on the growing suspicion of colleges and long-standing frustration with their perceived elitism. Trump is keeping that discontent at the fore, and college leaders are having to reckon with the real possibility of a second Trump term and plot their politics accordingly.

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Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com.
Yet again the fate of the African elephant, and indeed the continents wildlife and wilderness, is being debated in Britains Parliament. Labour MP John Spellars Hunting Trophies Prohibition Bill has just passed its second reading after the previous attempt was beached in the House of Lords. And yet again, an African delegation arrived in London to attempt to forestall the bill and has gone home empty-handed.

Spellar says the bill, which is designed to prevent hunters bringing tusks and other body parts into Britain as trophies, is a well overdue measure to crack down on a brutal trade and protect animals from British hunters. A ban was promised in the 2019 Conservative manifesto and is backed by MPs from all the major parties.

But the delegation that came to London, led by Botswanas wildlife minister Dumezweni Mthimkhulu and southern African rural community representatives, argues that the bill amounts to colonial interference and will neither protect the animals it is intended to protect nor provide a solution to the ongoing crisis in African wildlife conservation.

To make its point, the Botswana government suggested that a herd of 10,000 elephants be placed in Hyde Park to see how Londoners like living with these huge pachyderms. Given the massive damage they have done to forests in Botswana and South Africa  in Kruger National Park, raptors are disappearing as there are fewer trees to nest in because of elephant depredation  they would make short work of Westminsters largest royal park.

The delegation wants to retain big game hunting as a conservation mechanism, arguing that, as a properly regulated industry, it can contribute significantly, financially, to the larger conservation effort. The African delegation came accompanied by British environmental scientists and hard statistics to back its argument. The delegation represents a group of southern African countries that have unarguably been the most successful in conserving wildlife, including elephant herds, lion prides and a whole range of endangered species  and their equally important habitats.

Humans and elephants are trying to find ways to live side by side in Zimbabwe. Many Africans see hunting as crucial to controlling elephant numbers - BBC Studios

What irks the African delegation is that Spellar, a minister under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, was invited to meet them but declined. This, they claim, shows a dismissive, arrogant colonial attitude. Prof Patience Gandiwa, Zimbabwe Parkss charismatic director of international conservation affairs and delegation members, says: It is baffling that the British can pass legislation clearly without understanding the issues.

Spellar, on the other hand, says he was simply unable to meet the delegation due to other diary commitments. He strongly rejects the claims of a colonial attitude, stating that the bill relates to Britain and what we bring into this country.

For Prof Gandiwa and the delegation, the most egregious statement Spellar makes to support his bill is that Kenya, which banned trophy hunting in 1977, is a role model for African wildlife conservation. In fact, his critics believe the opposite is true and that Kenya has been the most graphic example of failure across the continent.

Labour MP John Spellar is trying to get the Hunting Trophies Prohibition Bill through Parliament - Chris McAndrew/UK Parliament

As an example, the International Livestock Research Institute reported that in the Maasai Mara, Kenyas most famous wildlife reserve, the population of ungulates  large mammals with hooves  declined dramatically between 1989 and 2003 as a result of both poaching and human encroachment. Giraffe numbers fell by more than 90 per cent, warthogs by 80 per cent, hartebeest by 76 per cent and impala by 67 per cent.

Kenyas elephant and rhino populations were poached in industrial quantities through the 1970s and 1980s and today there are 35,000 elephants and 1,700 rhino, black and white, left. By contrast, southern Africas Kaza conservation collective (Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe) has more than 300,000 elephants, and the population is growing vigorously. Southern Africa is also the last refuge of the white rhino; an estimated 15,000 of the continents remaining 16,800 animals are located in South Africa. And of the 6,500 remaining black rhinos across the continent, almost 5,000 are in southern Africa.

The debate over how best to preserve Africas wildlife in the face of an alarming human population explosion (1.25 billion people in Africa today, to double to 2.5 billion by 2050 and double again to almost 5 billion at the end of the century) has been raging across the continent since the end of the colonial era in the 1960s and 1970s.

That political control, however, was seemingly replaced with a Western emotional attachment to elephants, which emerged in the 1980s. That was when biologist Joyce Poole and zoologist Katy Payne, with help from the former Newsweek journalist Cynthia Moss, released groundbreaking studies of elephant behaviour that revealed how they were sentient beings, how they communicated with one another, how they held strong family alliances and, most of all, how they mourned dead relatives. (Around that time I followed a small herd in Namibia to a remote place where the bones of a dead relative lay. Watching them gently running their trunks across the bones was one of the most moving experiences I have had in the wild.)

Biologist Joyce Poole's studies on elephant behaviour fostered an emotional attachment to elephants in the West, and led to the ban on trading elephant ivory

At the end of the 1980s, Poole was one of the architects of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites) proposal that effectively banned the international commercial trade in elephant ivory. Around the same time, according to Michael t Sas-Rolfes, of Oxford Universitys Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, as a result of the attention elephants were now getting, Western campaigning organisations such as Born Free and Save The Elephants rose to prominence. They began pushing the welfare approach to conservation which has subsequently been branded compassionate conservation.

If youre looking for a turning point in how the West viewed elephants and began interfering in African conservation politics, he says, it was when Cites banned the trade in ivory. (This was not a ban on trophy hunting.)

Unfortunately, many of the Africans involved in conservation, like the delegation that visited Parliament in March 2024, feel that Western animal rights activists, despite the apparently good intentions of many, are now way off the mark. Hunting was banned in Botswana between 2014 and 2019, says Siyoka Simasiku, the director of the community leaders network based in Botswana. During that time, elephants destroyed livestock, irrigation systems and fields of crops. Maize production in one of those communities was reduced from 1,160 bags to 330 bags. Around 34 people were killed by elephants in those areas.

Conservation will not succeed if those local communities are alienated from wildlife. Hunting revenues provide a significant incentive, as weve seen since the hunting ban was lifted.

Poaching, and the activities of the crime syndicates, has not gone away. At the moment, the rhinos in South Africas Kwazulu Natals parks are taking a terrible hammering and there are sporadic poaching outbreaks across southern Africa. But the conservationists on the ground argue that if local communities are rewarded for living among wild animals  and trophy hunting provides such rewards  it is in their interest to help see off the poachers.

If there is no benefit for living with the animals, there is no incentive for locals to look after wild animal assets. Thus they end up collaborating with the international poaching syndicates for small cash bribes  or poach themselves. One of the untold stories of Africas wildlife crisis is bushmeat poaching, which is decimating the ungulate herds everywhere.

Critics of Spellars approach believe that one of the great misunderstandings in Britain, and indeed among the politicians driving this bill through Parliament, is that trophy hunting and poaching of wild animals are the same thing. They are not. Properly regulated big game hunting is selective, controlled and affects a small number of animals. Poaching is largely run by international criminal syndicates.

One of the most successful examples of trophy hunting as a conservation mechanism cited by Zimbabwes Prof Gandiwa is her countrys Bubye Valley Conservancy. It is located in the arid southern lowveld, originally a colonial Rhodesian cattle ranch. The Conservancy was founded in 1994 by conservationists who understood that wild animals were better adapted than domestic livestock to cope with local climate and environment conditions.

The conversion from cattle ranching to wildlife was complicated and expensive. Today, however, Bubye boasts the worlds third-largest black rhino population; Zimbabwes largest lion population, numbering more than 500; flourishing herds of elephants, and abundant other game. Key to the financial upkeep is the sale of 16 lion-hunting licences every year, which give the community an annual income of 1.2 million, much of which is used to protect the local rhino population from poachers.

Many African environmentalists claim that Spellar's bill confuses trophy hunting with the poaching of wild animals such as elephants, which are different things - Murat Ozgur Guvendik/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

According to Prof Gandiwa, Bubye is a source of great pride for us. It has proved that the private sector, communities and government can work together and grow the wildlife cake. She says that, if the hunting trophy bill goes through  and thus the income from hunting licences is removed  the knock-on environmental effect would be catastrophic. Bubye would lose its rhinos.

The British scientists who accompanied the African delegation claim that 75 per cent of the statements made by MPs debating the bill were incorrect, based on misinformation. They are concerned that Spellar and his bills supporters are overlooking the reality in Africa, such as the Bubye Valley Conservancy story.

As one of those scientists, Prof Amy Dickman, a director of the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University, said of the second reading of the bill: It was a complete shower of misinformation and nonsense, calling Africa a country among other things. They were wilfully ignorant and refused to meet anyone from the African delegation. Disgraceful.

Spellar strongly rejects the claims and says that the statements made by him and other MPs in support of the bill could have been challenged in Parliament if people wanted to do that. He adds, There were some people there who were against it, but they clearly didnt have the numbers, otherwise it wouldnt have gone through.

Speaking last month, the former minister insisted that his bill represents the views of Parliament and it represents the views of the British people, who want nothing to do with this vile trade. He added: Would I rather people shoot animals with cameras and not crossbows and rifles? Yes, but this does not hold extraterritorial jurisdiction. It relates to Britain and what we bring into this country.

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Salman Rushdies alleged attackers trial has been delayed ahead of the publication of his new book, Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder.

The book is a memoir about the 2022 attack that very nearly cost the author, 76, his life after he was repeatedly stabbed ahead of a lecture on free speech at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state.

The suspect Hadi Matar, then 24, was subsequently charged with attempted second-degree murder and second-degree assault.

He has remained incarcerated without bail since the incident that saw the author hospitalised for six weeks.

Rushdie was ultimately left with permenant damage to one hand and the loss of sight in one eye.

Matar, who pled not guilty, said he disliked Rushdie because of his alleged critical views of Islam.

The author was left blind in one eye after the attack (Getty)

It was this so-called critique of Islam that saw a fatwa - assassination order - issued against him by Iran in 1989 following the release of his controversial novel, The Satanic Verses.

While this fatwa was subsequently withdrawn in 1998, the threats against Rushdie persisted, although he did return to public life after going into hiding for the best part of a decade.

Matar, from Fairview, New Jersey, was initially due to stand trial for his alleged crimes against the author on January 8.

But at the start of this year, his attorneys argued that his trial could not proceed until they reviewed the British authors new book, which may be used as evidence.

It will not change the ultimate outcome, Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt said.

Salman Rushdie published The Satanic Verses in 1988 (PA)

The prosecution stressed that as the incident took place in front of a large audience, the book is unlikely to affect the criminal proceedings against Matar.

The crowd had gathered at the Chautauqua Institution to hear the acclaimed author speak about the importance of freedom of expression - a subject he has frequently discussed after a fatwa was issued against him for a fictional work.

Muslims found many points of contention in The Satanic Versus, including an unflattering portrayal of a character likened to the Prophet Muhammed.

Matars mother, Silvana Fardos, spoke out after the August 2022 attack, claiming her son was radicalized by Islamic extremists during a trip to Lebanon in 2018.

I was expecting him to come back motivated, to complete school, to get his degree and a job, she told the MailOnline.

But instead he locked himself in the basement. He had changed a lot, he didnt say anything to me or his sisters for months.

It is believed Matar was radicalised on a trip to the Middle East. (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Matar, however, denied any association with terrorist groups and insisted on his independent dislike of Rushdie.

I dont like the person. I dont think hes a very good person, he insisted. Hes someone who attacked Islam, he attacked their beliefs, the belief systems.

In prison, Matar praised the former Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who issued the fatwa against Rushdie.

Rushdie said he wrote his new book to come to terms with the 2022 attack, but admitted that he doesnt know if he wants to face his attacker in court.

Im in two minds about it, he told BBC Newshour. Theres one bit of me that actually wants to go and stand on the court and look at him and theres another bit of me that just cant be bothered.
Former employees and drivers for Tony's Express of Fontana, California, claim new owner sank the 70-year-old company. (Photo courtesy of Tony's Express)

Former Tonys Express truck drivers and other employees say financial mismanagement by new owner John Ohle led to the 70-year-old trucking companys recent collapse.

Tonys Express, headquartered in Fontana, California, shut down March 28 after Ohle and others sent a series of text messages starting on March 24, informing workers that the company would not be running trucks the following day due to a truck insurance issue.

In texts obtained by FreightWaves, Ohle sent a second message March 25 that the company was still troubleshooting our current insurance issue and require that all employees remain off the following day.

They never returned to work.





Two weeks after the closure, Ohle has yet to pay drivers, warehouse and dockworkers, and office personnel their final checks and for their paid time off (PTO), sources told FreightWaves. Some are owed multiple checks after previous paychecks bounced. Their medical coverage ended two days after the company shut down.

The current market just didnt support our ability to operate and be a profitable company, and the cost of fuel in California made it very difficult, Ohle told FreightWaves a few days after the closure. We were in very serious discussions with two different companies about coming in and partnering or taking over Tonys, and those fell apart at the very end, and literally, it was a last-minute decision.

Ohle said he plans to have Tonys Express employees paid but did not provide a date for when that might occur.

Were working right now to make sure we mitigate that situation and get everybody paid, he said on April 2.

While Ohle initially cited insurance issues in telling employees not to report to work March 25, a source familiar with the situation said Ohle knew the company was done March 22.





The source said Tonys Express had a recourse agreement with factoring company eCapital, which is headquartered in Aventura, Florida. When eCapital was unable to collect on invoices amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars within a certain time frame per the agreement, Tonys was forced to buy back around $300,000 in uncollectible invoices.

One day after Tonys closure, the source said Ohle was already in talks to take over another trucking company and brokerage.

Anthony Tony Raluy and his brother, George Raluy, sold the company that their father started to John Ohle in March 2023.

The formerly family-owned company had over 200 employees, including around 90 truck drivers, at the time of its closure.

In the weeks leading up to Tonys sudden closure, drivers reported fuel cards werent working at various times and complained that their paychecks had bounced after the company switched from direct deposit to paper checks a few months before shuttering operations.

Story continues

Besides not getting paid for two weeks before we closed, my fuel card wouldnt work at times, and John Ohle or one of his managers asked me to use my personal debit card to pay for fuel, which would cost hundreds of dollars, a former Tonys less-than-truckload driver, who didnt want to be named for fear of retaliation, told FreightWaves. I already had paychecks bounce from Tonys. Theres no way I was going to use my own money and trust the company would reimburse me.

As of publication Friday, neither Ohle nor Morgan Craven, who headed the human resources department at Tonys, had responded to former employees emails about when they would receive their final checks. In his final text to employees about the immediate closure, Ohle also included Cravens email address to ensure that she had employees current mailing addresses and phone numbers to send their checks when money became available.

Craven did not respond to FreightWaves request seeking comment. Ohle has failed to respond to new allegations raised by former employees or ex-coworkers since the first article was published about Tonys Express sudden closure.





Ohle bought another family-owned trucking company that closed after two years

Ohle bought another family-owned trucking company, C&M Transportation Inc. of Kansas City, Kansas, in 2002. Two years later, he abruptly shuttered operations after closing the majority of the companys terminals and reducing its workforce from around 150 employees to 70, according to the Kansas City Business Journal.

Ohle acknowledged that C&M had come up short on paydays in recent months, according to the news outlet. We did not sufficiently fund some of our checks.

Asked about the closure of C&M Transportation 20 years ago, Ohle blamed the collapse on a failed attempt to take the cartage company public with some people in California.

It did not work out because it [C&M] probably should have been closed when I bought it because it was losing money, he told FreightWaves. The situation at Tonys Express hurts a lot more because I thought I could turn things around and make it profitable again.



Read related article here: 70-year-old California trucking company, freight brokerage closes abruptly

Company offers to hire former Tonys employees, drivers

Joe Comins, one of the owners of Dedicated Delivery Professionals, headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, California, said his company stepped in to hire as many former Tonys drivers as possible.

Comins said DDP took a leap of faith and leased a 70,000-square-foot warehouse in Chino, California, in hopes of acquiring some of Tonys Express former clients.

Originally, we were trying to get something worked out with Mr. Ohle, who came to us awhile ago and basically said, I dont think I can get this thing turned around. We were trying to do a very expeditious deal, and it just didnt work out. We couldnt come to a reasonable middle ground, Comins told FreightWaves.

He said DDP has had success in acquiring some of those customers but there have been challenges.

A source familiar with the situation said the skeleton crew still working at Tonys is allowing certain carriers to come inside its gates to pick up freight but has only allowed a few DDP trucks to enter the facility.

DDP is wanting to hire as many ex-Tonys drivers and other workers as soon as possible, but Joe Comins and his team cant do this if they cant fill up this leased warehouse, the source said.

Comins said hes had a lot of sleepless nights since acquiring the additional warehouse in Chino.

We did this deal pretty fast because we thought that we were gonna have that opportunity in order to help out and service a lot of former Tonys customers real quick, but that hasnt come to fruition yet. But were hopeful, he said. We have a bunch of drivers already approved  theyve done their road tests and drug screening, but we cant put them to work yet because we dont have boxes for them [to haul] yet.

Red flags

Some former Tonys employees said they saw the writing on the wall months ago. They left after their hours were cut and the companys mechanics shop and on-site fuel island closed.

Ohle said when reached by FreightWaves in early April that these decisions were necessary to boost the companys bottom line.

Some drivers had two paychecks bounce and others had at least six weeks of paid time off they did not receive or werent paid their bonuses for being accident-free for a certain amount of time, a former Tonys driver said.

Along with its headquarters in Fontana, Tonys operated a facility in Stockton, California, which had around 65 drivers, a terminal in Sparks, Nevada, and two satellite yards in Phoenix and Las Vegas, which had about five drivers apiece at the time of the closure. They lost their jobs on March 28.

John [Ohle] quit paying the bills and was behind on rent payments on all of the terminals, the source said. The garbage company at the Sparks, Nevada, terminal quit picking up [our trash] for nonpayment.

The source says the Raluys, who formerly owned Tonys Express, had a long-standing truck leasing relationship with Pape Kenworth, which operates multiple dealerships along the West Coast. However, after Ohle took over, the source claims the new owner failed to make the lease payments to Pape and the dealer was forced to take back its power units.

We shut down the shop because it was inefficient, and we saved money by going through a full lease and maintenance program with Penske, which is a great operation, Ohle said. When I took over, I thought I could save the company, that I could pull a team together and save it.

As of publication, a Pape Kenworth representative had not responded to FreightWaves request seeking comment.

John switched over to Penske [to lease more tractors], the source said. It is my understanding he had not made a payment to Penske since making the original down payment to acquire the power units.

According to former drivers and other employees, prior to the Raluys selling Tonys Express in March 2023, the company had great relationships with vendors.

We had A-1 status and credit with several vendors, and because of our service, we were able to bypass other trucks in line and get in and out of places, said one long-term former Tonys Express driver, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal. Towards the end of it all, we lost that status and we were returning to our terminals with the freight because we couldnt pay the lumper fees. I found out our mechanic was no longer coming around because he wasnt getting paid.

In recent months, one ex-employee claims some company executives, including Ohle, started paying lumper fees on their personal credit cards, which could add up to thousands of dollars per day, instead of adding funds to Comdata to pay the lumpers who were unloading Tonys trucks at customers warehouses.

Its such a shame that John Ohle and others at Tonys Express were able to tear down this beloved company in less than a year when it took the Raluy family 70 years to build and maintain a good reputation in this industry, a former office worker said.

A few days after the closure, one former employee was sent two videos of Tonys Express tractors and equipment parked at a wrecking yard near the companys headquarters.

The message said, Hey, look whats in front of this wrecking yard  the mechanics trailer and two more rigs, the source said. The second video I was sent the very next day was of more Tonys equipment, including trailers. There was so much equipment that the wrecking yard couldnt close their gates and the company had already started dismantling them.

According to the California secretary of states office, Ohle and several of Tonys entities have Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) liens against him and the companies.

A UCC lien allows a lender to establish priority in case of debtor default or bankruptcy. According to the lien documents, CT Corporation System is listed as the secured party in Glendale, California.

Losing hope

Without paychecks and health insurance, some said they are in a financial bind and unsure if Tonys Express will pay them what they are owed and pay out their PTO and their mortgages, rent and other bills are due soon.

Some of us long-term employees went through some tough times when there were some down years in trucking, but the Raluys were always transparent with us, said a former employee. We usually received a $100 bonus at Thanksgiving and a $300 bonus for Christmas, which meant so much to us. The Raluys wouldnt have closed the doors without having a conversation with the employees first. They wouldnt have sent out a text telling us this devastating news like John [Ohle] did.

Do you have a news tip to share? Send me an email or message me @cage writer on X, formerly Twitter. Your name will not be used without your permission.

Read more articles here:

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The post Former Tonys Express workers, drivers say mismanagement sank company appeared first on FreightWaves.
Why were people living in unlicensed Myrtle Beach motel when roof collapsed? What we know

More than a dozen people in Myrtle Beach were displaced by Thursdays hotel roof collapse, but no one was supposed to be living there at the time.

The oceanfront Summer Wind Inn & Suites, at 1903 S. Ocean Blvd., does not have an active business license and wasnt allowed to be housing anyone, according to city spokesman Mark Kruea.

It had a building permit in place to make repairs and improvements, Kruea wrote in an email to The Sun News, and it has now been deemed uninhabitable after a portion of the roof caved in following Thursday mornings storm. No injuries were reported, and a portion of South Ocean Boulevard was closed about five hours, according to Myrtle Beach Fire Department.

Myrtle Beach business records show the property last received its license to operate as a hotel during September 2021, which wouldve expired after April 2022, the end of the city license year.

That license was actually issued to a previous entity operating the hotel, but an ownership change occurred October 2023, and the current operator, VK Summer Wind LLC, has never been issued a license, according to Kruea.

The same is true for VK Southern Breeze LLC, which operates the adjacent Southern Breeze Hotel, at 1901 S. Ocean Blvd., Kruea noted. Both LLCs were registered by Vipul Patel, according to S.C. Secretary of State filings. Contact information for Patel could not be found.

Myrtle Beach Police issued two tickets Friday for operating without a business license, one each for the Summer Wind and Southern Breeze motels, to a man named Kunal Chhatrola, of Johns Creek, Georgia, though its unclear what his role is with operating the hotels.

Chhatrola, reached by phone Friday, told The Sun News he couldnt disclose any information about the hotels ownership, including whether he was the owner or not.

Businesses operating in Myrtle Beach without a license are subject to fines up to $1,092 per day and imprisonment, according to the citys Financial Services Division.

The city previously cited a person named Jaye Allie, whose role is also unclear, in January for operating the Southern Breeze and Summer Wind motels without a business license, according to Kruea. Allie, who couldnt be reached for comment, pled guilty and paid a $1,087 fine for each violation, online court records show.

Summer Wind has also received a fire department citation for unsecured vacant structure, while Southern Breeze received 12 citations  one for each occupied room  for improper fire watch procedures, Kruea wrote.

The Summer Wind property is currently owned by YK Summer Wind LLC, which purchased the property in August 2021 for $2.2 million, Horry County property records show. The four-story motel was originally built in 1969.

Jaynil Patel, of Brookhaven, Georgia, is the organizer of that LLC, according to documents filed with the S.C. Secretary of State. Patel and his listed address on those documents are associated with HKB Hotel Group.

That company has a portfolio of more than 30 hotels  including the Southern Breeze  across 10 states, according to its website. Messages left for HKB and Patel were not returned.

While Summer Wind has a website that appears to accept hotel bookings, its unclear if theyve been housing tourists since their business license expired.

Court records do suggest the property has been housing long-term residents. The motel has filed to evict residents on 13 separate instances since July 2023. Christina Somerlott told The Sun News Thursday that she had been living there since September 2023.
Wichita will remove 3,517 names from gang list after lawsuit. Heres what else it will do

A constitutional challenge to the Wichita Police Departments gang list will result in at least two-thirds of the people on the list being removed immediately.

The 3,517 people previously classified as inactive gang members and gang associates will be struck from the list under a settlement agreement approved by the City Council this week, meaning they legally can no longer be subjected to heightened police scrutiny and harsher punishments.

Under the supervision of a court-appointed special master, police will also be required to conduct an annual audit of the 1,728 people designated as active gang members to determine whether they meet a stricter criteria to qualify for inclusion in the gang list and its corresponding database.

The settlement isnt perfect. We certainly think its an improvement on the current state of affairs, said Kunyu Ching, a staff attorney with the ACLU of Kansas, which, along with Kansas Appleseed, brought the legal challenge to Wichitas gang policy on behalf of juvenile justice advocacy group Progeny.

Sixty percent of people on the gang list are Black and 25% are Hispanic. Only 6% are white. Under the policy in place before the settlement, police had broad authority to identify people as gang members based on such arbitrary factors as where they live, what color clothing they wear, where they shop or buy gas and who they are photographed with.

It is so inflammatory and so unjust for you as a young person to not be able to be around your peers or to be able to go into a house of a relative or to decipher to coordinate your clothes  I just want to match my clothes  and be labeled a gang member, said Marquetta Atkins-Woods, executive director of Progeny.

She said her own son was once stopped by police as he was walking back to school from their house during a lunch period. They wanted to know where he was going and what gang he was affiliated with.

Systemically, Black and Brown kids are profiled, Atkins-Woods said. Their communities are overpoliced, and they are put in these boxes just because of who they are.

Once on the list, members are subjected to frequent stops and searches over minor traffic infractions, and have a minimum $50,000 bail if charged with a violent crime and longer sentences in higher-security prisons if convicted.

City Attorney Jennifer Magana told council members Tuesday that WPDs [gang] database serves as an important criminal intelligence function and allows police to act in a proactive way to solve crime.

For someone to qualify for the list now, they must be observed engaging in criminal gang behavior or self-identify as a gang member.

This mediated agreement is intended to protect the constitutional rights of the citizens of Wichita and allow law enforcement to conduct effective investigations for public safety, city spokesperson Megan Lovely said in an emailed statement.

A Wichita Police Department spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

Terms of the settlement

For the first time, people placed on the gang list will have the right to know they have been included and the right to challenge that designation under the settlement agreement, which still needs a federal judges signature before it can go into effect.

The city will have up to 30 days to respond when someone submits a request asking whether they are included in the gang database. Attorneys and legal guardians can also request this information.

If police think a person between ages 13 and 17 meets the criteria to be put on the list, they must notify their parents or guardians and give them an opportunity to enter into an intervention agreement that, if upheld, will prevent inclusion on the list.

When a person over the age of 18 is identified as a criminal street gang member and added to the WPD Gang Database, a supervisor from the Gang/Felony Assault Section will send a written notification to that individual at their last known address, the agreement states.

Police must also explain the criteria used to justify their inclusion and provide instructions for challenging the designation, which involves submitting an appeal request to a City Council-appointed gang review ombudsperson.

That person, who must be a licensed attorney or former federal judge qualified to access the Kansas Criminal Justice Information System, will review all available information and issue a written decision in any appeal case. If gang member status is upheld, it can be appealed every 18 months.

People included on the list can also request to review any physical documentation used to support their classification as a gang member, but WPD can deny the request if it would risk revealing or compromising confidential sources, impede or risk impeding law enforcement activities, risk endangerment of a person, or as otherwise restricted by law.

Special master

The agreement calls for Paul Gurney, a former Johnson County federal district court judge, to serve as special master, ensuring that the Wichita Police Department lives up to the standards of the settlement over the next three years. The City Council voted to authorize $75,000 in payment for the special master.

The changes, unless theyre actually carried out, they could just be words, right? said Teresa Woody, litigation director at Kansas Appleseed. But this [special master] really ensures that theres a mechanism for a third party to review whats going on, to see that WPD is changing the way it trains its officers, is changing the way it interacts with the members of the community.

Every six months, the special master will conduct a review of training materials, appeals and new additions to the gang list, issuing a report on WPDs performance to the plaintiffs and their attorneys. Woody said she is unsure if that report will be made public.

If the department fails to conform to the agreement, the plaintiffs attorneys will have the right to extend the time of the agreement or to request court intervention.

As part of its annual audit of gang list members, the city will be required to report aggregate data on the age, race and number of people removed from the list and the same information for those whose status as a gang member is upheld.

Ching said the additional oversight will discourage discriminatory policing practices that have selectively targeted minority populations in the past.

The most effective policing is policing that complies with the law, and that includes specifically the supreme law of the land, which is the Constitution, she said.

The settlement agreement does not require any change to the state law that empowered Wichita police to classify people as gang members without notifying them of their status as a criminal. The agreement does preserve attorneys right to challenge that law in the future.

Were very hopeful that seeing the changes that this required, the legislature will take a look at this and understand on its own that what it has on the books is not constitutional and needs to be changed, Woody said.

Wichita is poised to settle a lawsuit challenging police gang list. Heres what it means

Class-action status granted for people on Wichita police gang list in lawsuit against city
Wicomico names 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. Get to know the Wicomico Middle educator.

Debbie Reynolds, a seventh grade world history teacher at Wicomico Middle School, was named the 2024-2025 Wicomico Teacher of the Year on Thursday night in an announcement at the Teacher of the Year Spring Celebration held at Venue 54 in Delmar.

Get to know the 2024 Wicomico County Teacher of the Year

Reynolds, 31, has taught history at Wicomico Middle for seven years, during which she was the first recipient of the McCain Foundations Rising Star Award for outstanding second-year teachers (2019). Wicomico County Public Schools is proud of this excellent educator who got her start as a student in Wicomico County Public Schools, attending Pittsville Elementary and Middle, Prince Street Elementary, Bennett Middle and James M. Bennett High, graduating in 2010.

Debbie Reynolds has been named the 2024-2025 Wicomico County Teacher of the Year.

This sounds cliche, but I have been working toward becoming Wicomico Teacher of the Year since 2010, when I was a senior at James M. Bennett High School. Ever since then, I have thought endlessly about how I could successfully represent the very county which educated me, Ms. Reynolds said in her written prompt packet. As teachers, we have the duty to represent and advocate for our students when they want to be seen, heard and valued. That is exactly what I plan to do as Wicomico Teacher of the Year.

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Reynolds attended Salisbury University, receiving her bachelors degree in history (2015) and Master of Arts in Teaching (2017). She began teaching with Wicomico County Public Schools in August 2017, and has spent all seven years at Wicomico Middle. She is a member of Kappa Delta Phi, the prestigious national educational honor society.

She was featured in the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt podcast Teachers in America, which highlights the stories of educators from around the country. She is currently working toward National Board Certification.

Following the announcement of her name on Thursday evening, the Board of Education presented her with the traditional engraved golden apple award that it gives only to the Wicomico Teacher of the Year.

Salisbury housing complex in crosshairs: Salisbury City Council, mayor at odds over troubled housing complex. Here's why.

Celebration at the new Teacher of the Years school Friday morning

Reynolds will be celebrated at Wicomico Middle starting at 10 a.m. Friday, April 12, when she will arrive in a classic 1949 Buick Super driven by Wicomico band teacher and auto enthusiast Buck Burton. Plans are in the works for a law enforcement motorcycle escort, because Reynolds loves to ride her motorcycle.

The entire seventh grade of Wicomico Middle, as well as some of the eighth grade students and guests, will be out front to meet her, along with Wicomico Middles renowned drumline. There will be a parade through the school to the auditorium, followed by an assembly.

We are thrilled that Debbie Reynolds of Wicomico Middle School now represents all of Wicomicos 1,400 teachers as the 2024-2025 Wicomico Teacher of the Year, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Micah Stauffer said. Were proud that she is not only an excellent teacher, but one of our outstanding graduates. She will represent her school, Wicomico County Public Schools, and its students and teachers very well in the Maryland Teacher of the Year Recognition Program.

Wicomico is proud to have had three former Maryland Teachers of the Year working in the school system on behalf of students: Aaron Deal, April Todd and Bonnie Walston (now retired). The past four Wicomico Teachers of the Year, Tara Martens (2023-2024), Rebecca Mathews (2022-2023), Dustin Thomas (2021-2022) and Hemalatha Bhaskaran (2020-2021), were state finalists for Maryland Teacher of the Year.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Wicomico Middle educator is county Teacher of Year. Get to know her.
Newly released police bodycam footage captures the moment cops in Yonkers are forced to scuffle with a group of rowdy migrants at a local hotel packed with asylum seekers.

Police busted two people during the Tuesday afternoon melee at a local Ramada Inn  but not before they were surrounded and berated in Spanish by an unruly migrant mob, the footage shows.

Cops were called to the hotel shortly before 1 p.m. on reports of an out-of-control guest.

The guy is over here unruly, a Ramada employee said during a 911 call. Hes being very violent with everybody. Hes throwing stuff at everybody. We need somebody here right away.

Migrant Arnal Kent, 35, was charged with menacing and disorderly conduct for allegedly going off at the Ramada Inn in Yonkers on Tuesday afternoon. NY Post

Yonkers police received a call of an unruly person at the Ramada Inn hotel and arrested Arnal Kent, 35, on Tuesday. NY Post

The footage shows the officers walking into the lobby, where they grabbed Arnal Kent, 35, and took him into custody while surrounded by a crew of other migrants.

Why does he have to hit me? Kent is heard jawing in Spanish as he struggles to get away. Theyre not taking me. Theyre not taking me. Im not doing anything.

Thats when a migrant woman  identified as 24-year-old Yainilet Hernandez  pushes the officers, then blocks the door of the police vehicle to bar cops from putting Kent inside.

Yonkers cops manage to get the handcuffed suspect inside  then let things cool down, the video shows.

After a few minutes, they go back to Hernandez and try to cuff her, only to have her try to fight off the cops, who are forced to take her to the ground to put the handcuffs on to the taunts of the bystanders.

Kent was charged with menacing, disorderly conduct and obstructing governmental administration and released without bail, police said.

Yonkers police said migrant Yainilet Hernandez, 24, tried to bar cops from arresting fellow migrant Arnal Kent. NY Post

Migrant Yainilet Hernandez was charged with resisting arrest and assault after scuffling with Yonkers cops on Tuesday. NY Post

Hernandez was charged with second-degree assault, obstruction of governmental administration and resisting arrest, and was being held at the Westchester County Jail on $500 bail.

In a statement Thursday, Yonkers police spokesman Detective Sgt. Frank DiDomizio said police responded to a call for service and reacted appropriately.

The Ramada Inn on Tuckahoe Road was tapped by New York City officials to take in about 250 migrants in May 2023 as the Big Apple struggled to find space for the flood of asylum seekers.
A man who was falsely accused of carrying out a deadly mass shooting in Allen, Texas has sued multiple prominent right-wing influencers and conservative media outlets for libel over their coverage of the massacre.

According to HuffPost, which first reported the lawsuit, Mauricio Garcia  a 36-year old Texas resident  has TelevisaUnivision and Newsmax, along with influencers Tim Pool, Steven Crowder, and Infowars host Owen Shroyer among others, of having recklessly disregarded basic journalistic safeguards and published the photo of an innocent man, branding him as a neo-Nazi murderer to his local community and the nation at large. (Garcia initially sued Fox News, as well, but dismissed his case against the network, with his lawyer writing in a statement that they acknowledge the lawsuit should never have been filed against Fox News, and we are compensating Fox News for its trouble in defending against this claim.)

In May last year, a gunman shot and killed eight shoppers at a mall in Allen, Texas. The alleged shooter, later identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Martinez Garcia, was a self-avowed neo-Nazi who espoused racist and violent rhetoric online for months before carrying out the massacre.

As networks and online sleuths worked to identify the shooter, the lawsuit alleges that the defendants misidentified Garcia as Martinez Garcia for days, leading to harassment and death threats against an innocent man and his family.

Newsmax is accused of having prominently displayed a misidentified photo of Garcia on multiple shows, and accusing him of being a member of the Puro Tango Blast prison gang.

Garcia argues that conspiracy theories spread by the right-wing influencers named in the lawsuit further compounded the wrongful damage to his reputation. In the aftermath of the shooting, prominent conservatives promoted conspiracy theories that Martinez Garicas extremist ties and the massacre itself were a psyop. The lawsuit accuses Pool, Crowder, and Shroyer of wrongfully using his image in their discussion of the shooting  and in some instances linking him to their conspiracies.

Garcias lawyers allege that Pools media outfit, Timcast Media Group Inc., published multiple articles on their website using Garcias image to portray the gunman.

Timcast Media Group also published an episode of Timcast IRL in which the thumbnail image for the video used a photograph of the Plaintiff. This image was viewable not only to YouTube users who actually clicked on the video, but to any user who was served the video on their feeds or in a recommendation sidebar, the filing says.

In addition in the following days, Pool continued to cast doubt on the event and tell his audience that the event was a psyop or staged government conspiracy. These allegations amplified the damage to Mr. Garcia.

The filing makes similar accusations against Crowder, whose website used a photo of Garcia in an article claiming that the media refuses to share photos of the killer.

Its by no means the first time those affected by a mass shooting have sought accountability for reckless coverage of the mass shootings that now plague American life. In 2022, InfoWars founder Alex Jones was ordered to pay more than $1.4 billion in damages to the families of victims killed in the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School for his conspiratorial coverage of the shooting. The landmark case marked a drastic change in how third parties can respond to money-grubbing conspiracy-mongering by prominent media figures in the aftermath of tragedies.

Garcias only sin was to have the same name as the shooter, read a translated message written by Garcias mother to Univision around the time of the shooting. Univision is also accused of having wrongly used Garcias image to identify the shooter in their televised coverage of the massacre.

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A Wisconsin man on Friday was charged in the death of a missing 19-year-old whose dismembered leg was found at a local park.

Maxwell Anderson, 33, faces counts of arson, murder and mutilating a corpse in connection to the death of Sade Robinson, who met with the suspect the night that she vanished, according to a criminal complaint obtained by HuffPost.

The teen was reported missing last week by a friend, who told detectives that Robinson had not been returning her calls and failed to show up for work.

Sade Robinson, via GoFundMe. GoFundMe

According to the friend, Robinsons Snapchat activity showed that shed visited a local bar April 1. Police traveled to Robinsons apartment to conduct a welfare check but could not find her.

On April 2, the Milwaukee Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire. The car, determined to be Robinsons Honda Civic, had sustained extreme damage, but detectives managed to find clothing that shed worn the night of her disappearance, along with remnants of her phone.

That same day, detectives learned that a severed human leg was discovered at Warnimont Park. Authorities noted that it appeared to belong to a Black female and was sawn off just below the hip. The leg was not in an apparent state of decomposition, and pink nail polish was still on the toes.

The leg was taken to medical examiners who, with the help of detectives, determined that it matched Robinsons height. DNA analysis supports the preliminary conclusion that the leg belonged to Robinson, the criminal complaint said.

Phone records indicated that before her disappearance, Robinson had been messaging Anderson about meeting at a restaurant where he used to work. Surveillance footage showed Robinson and Anderson dining at the restaurant for about an hour before leaving. A bartender there told detectives that Anderson had come in to pick up a W-2 but stayed at the establishment for a first date.

On April 4, detectives searched Andersons home, where they found blood on a bed and on walls leading toward the basement, according to the complaint. In the basement, they said they discovered multiple gasoline containers. Anderson was taken into custody that same day after officers flagged him down in a traffic stop.

A human foot and another piece of what appeared to be human flesh were then located April 6 in a wooded area about a block away from where Robinsons car was burned.

At a press conference Friday morning, officials said that they had yet to determine a motive in the case and were still searching for the rest of Robinsons remains.

Speaking at a Friday court hearing, Milwaukee County Assistant District Attorney Ian Vance-Curzan alleged that the suspect had gone to tremendous lengths to cover up the teens death, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported.

A lawyer listed for Anderson did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

In an online fundraiser, a family acquaintance described Robinson as a loving daughter, a cherished sister, and a dear friend who was pursuing a career in criminal justice.

The pain of losing Sade has left a void in the hearts of her family, especially her grieving mother and little sister, along with other relatives, friends, and the entire community who loved and supported her, read a page for the fundraiser.

Related...
Wisconsin woman who at 12 nearly killed girl wont be released yet from psychiatric hospital

A Wisconsin woman who at age 12 said she stabbed a sixth-grade classmate nearly to death to please the online horror character Slender Man remains a risk to the public and wont be released yet from a psychiatric hospital, a judge said Thursday.

Judge Michael Bohren ruled against Morgan Geyser, now 21, despite the testimony of two psychiatrists, including the medical director of Winnebago Mental Health Institute, who said she was ready to depart that hospital and return to the community under certain conditions.

The scales tip in favor of the public, and it tips that way by clear and convincing evidence, Bohren said, citing the standard under Wisconsin law.

Geyser and Anissa Weier were 12 in 2014 when they lured Payton Leutner to a Waukesha park after a sleepover. Geyser stabbed Leutner repeatedly while Weier egged her on. Leutner suffered 19 stab wounds and barely survived.

The girls quickly confessed, saying they carried out the attack to appease Slender Man, a fictional online horror character. They said they feared he would otherwise harm their families.

Geyser pleaded guilty to attempted first-degree intentional homicide and was sent to the psychiatric institute because of mental illness. She was initially diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder but has been off antipsychotic medications since 2022 with no new symptoms, said Dr. Ken Robbins.

Morgan has improved quite dramatically.  The kinds of things Morgan needs in my view  help with socialization, help with education, help with becoming independent  are things Winnebago can no longer provide in an effective way, said Robbins, who recommended a move to a group home.

Dr. Kayla Pope, medical director at Winnebago, agreed. Geyser was placed there by court order in 2018, though she has been in custody in some form for a decade.

She has actively participated in therapy, medication management and all the treatments that are available, Pope said. At this point she is safe to return to the community. I dont know that much more could be done to make her safer.

But the judge said he was troubled by reports that Geyser in recent years has attributed the attack to her desire to get away from her abusive father, now deceased.

Her credibility is at issue. Shes changed her position, Bohren said. Until that credibility is resolved, the risk is high, he added, referring to public safety.

Separately, two psychologists testified Wednesday that it was still too soon to release Geyser. Waukesha County Assistant District Attorney Ted Szczupakiewicz also opposed it.

After the hearing, Geysers attorney, Tony Cotton, said she has not changed her story, though she believes she stabbed the victim because of a trauma-related mental disorder, not schizophrenia. She can file another petition for release in six months.

Time will show she is a healthy and stable person who needs to be released to the community. Time has shown that, Cotton told The Associated Press.

Weier, her accomplice, pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree intentional homicide and was also sent to the psychiatric center. She was granted a release in 2021 to live with her father and was ordered to wear a GPS monitor.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Witness saw alcoholic beverage in alleged DUI drivers car after killing women pushing broken-down car, Las Vegas police say

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The man accused of hitting and killing a woman as she tried to push her broken-down vehicle out of a travel lane allegedly had an alcoholic beverage in his vehicle at the time of the crash, according to an arrest report.

Cody Hill, 29, faces charges, including DUI resulting in death after police said he hit the 59-year-old woman in the northwest Las Vegas valley.

Cody Hill, 29, faces charges, including DUI resulting in death after police said he hit the 59-year-old woman in the northwest Las Vegas valley. (LVMPD)

On April 9 at around 6:45 p.m., officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department responded to a fatal collision in the westbound lanes of Ann Road, just west of Jones Boulevard. Several witnesses told police they were stopped to help a woman, identified as Diana Ready, push her vehicle off the road, according to an arrest report.

While they were attempting to push the vehicle, another vehicle driven by Hill approached and failed to slow down or move into a different lane. The front of Hills vehicle hit both Ready and the back of her vehicle, police said.

Ready was thrown into the air and onto the roadway before Hill drove over her with his vehicle, the report stated.

Hill then did a U-turn, driving over the center median and stopping along the curb. Witnesses saw Hill sitting in the drivers seat and smelled a strong odor of alcohol coming from him, according to the report.

One witness told police they saw an alcoholic beverage on the drivers side door. Another witness removed Hills key from the vehicle so he could not drive away, the report stated.

An off-duty Department of Corrections officer stopped at the scene and detained Hill, who was uncooperative.

Arriving medical personnel attempted life-saving measures on Ready, but she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead on the scene.

Officers said Hills eyes were bloodshot and watery and he needed support so he would not fall over. Hill told an officer that he uses marijuana daily, the report stated.

Police performed a standardized field sobriety test, which HIll failed.

Officers arrested Hill for DUI resulting in death, duties of a driver when approaching a traffic incident, and expired registration. He was being held Friday at the Clark County Detention Center on a $150,000 bail.

His next court appearance was scheduled for April 15.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
DICKSON CITY, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) Police have filed charges against a woman who allegedly tried to destroy evidence in a homicide investigation.

On January 30, police say 68-year-old Mary Harvey was injured during a fall in her Dickson City home. Harveys relative along with one of Harveys employees called 911 to report her injuries and take her to the hospital.

Harvey later died in the hospital; however, investigators said it appeared as though the injuries were from more than just a fall.

On January 31, investigators said the employee and 63-year-old Elaine Peters voluntarily came to the police station. While at the station, investigators asked the employee why there were red spots on his jacket, but he said it was just paint. At the time, authorities did not collect the jacket as evidence.

Two arrested during traffic stop, meth, various drugs seized

On February 16, police noticed a photograph of the employees jacket at the crime scene covered in blood. This led investigators to determine the employees jacket was cleaned off before he went to the station.

Upon learning this, investigators said they obtained a search warrant for the employees jacket and went to the house where Peters and the employee were living with a friend.

Police said the employee helped investigators find the jacket, but Peters tried to prevent police from taking it. She reportedly told officers, Its not stained with blood from him and Mary oh maybe I have the wrong from him and Mary painting.

Peters told officers she never washed the jacket despite the employee saying the jacket had been washed after being at Harveys home. Peters would later accuse her friend of cleaning the jacket.

Investigators said they spoke with the friend over the phone on March 1, but Peters was heard in the background telling her friend to lie. The two argued and police heard Peters say What comes around goes around, after her friend refused to lie and kicked Peters out of the house.

On March 4, officers said Peters convinced her neighbor to call 911 and accuse Peters friend of smoking crack. Police arrived on the scene and determined Peters was lying about the drugs.

Investigators charged Peters with one count of concealing/destroying evidence, one count of providing false information to law enforcement, and two charges related to trying to have other people lie for her.

At this time, no one else has been charged in this case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
VISALIA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A woman has been arrested after allegedly driving under the influence, ending up submerged into a pool in Visalia, the Visalia Police Department said on Thursday.

Officers say they responded to the area of Evans Avenue and Sowell Street in Visalia on Wednesday for a report of a traffic collision involving a vehicle that had crashed into a pool.

Upon arrival, police say they observed a white Dodge Ram partially submerged in a swimming pool. They contacted the driver and passenger who were both evaluated by EMS.

Investigators contacted the driver 38-year-old Christine Peters, and say she displayed signs and symptoms of driving under the influence. Peters was evaluated for DUI and subsequently arrested and booked at the Tulare County Adult Pre-Trail Facility on suspicion of driving under the influence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
UW-Parkside campus

Newly released reports raise questions about the financial viability of Wisconsin's public universities and signal additional cuts coming to some campuses in future years.

The University of Wisconsin System paid outside firm Deloitte $2.8 million to assess the financial health of its individual campuses. The reports released this week underscore the difficult financial forces facing most UW campuses and their unsustainable reliance on reserves to cover year after year of budget deficits.

None of the reports raised the possibility of consolidation or closure. UW System President Jay Rothman said he isn't entertaining the idea of closing any four-year campus. The struggle for chancellors is finding a path to remain financially sustainable while enrollment declines, concerns about college affordability grow and state funding in the most recent budget remained flat.

"I'm confident that all of our universities can get there," Rothman said. "The question is, what is the depth of those cuts going to have to be, because we have a responsibility on the expense side of the ledger to run as efficiently as we possibly can be. But in terms of having additional state support so that we can invest in things that are going to be important for our state going forward, I think that's what the balance is."

The nonpartisan Wisconsin Policy Forum found Wisconsin's four-year university system ranked 43rd in the country in per-pupil funding. Rothman said it would take an additional $440 million annually to move to the median level of funding nationally.

"Ultimately, it is up to the state to decide whether it wants and can afford a weakened (UW System)," Rothman said. "The adage is that you get what you pay for."

Here's what the campus reports show:

UW-Oshkosh

UW-Oshkosh students and staff rallied Tuesday, Oct. 3 against budget cuts that will eliminate more than 200 jobs.

Deloitte painted a dire picture for UW-Oshkosh, saying "without significant and immediate change ... the future of the institution is at risk."

The report called UW-Oshkosh leaders "responsive and decisive" when faced with a $15 million deficit at the beginning of this school year. Hundreds of painful layoffs and early retirements whittled the deficit to $3 million, which the report said has "substantially changed the trajectory of its financial situation."

Even so, the report said overcoming the ongoing deficit will be "challenging."

UW-Oshkosh is at "a critical moment in its history" and must "chart a course back to financial sustainability before the remaining resources are fully depleted." The report called for a "fresh approach" to student recruitment and retention, and adoption of a new academic organization plan that will reduce administrative costs.

Story continues

UW-Green Bay

Deloitte implored UW-Green Bay leaders to "act with urgency."

The report said UW-Green Bay needs to "right-size" its operations. If the university continues operating at its current rate, Deloitte projected UW-Green Bay spending down all of its reserves and being unable to support itself by 2027.

UW-Green Bay Chancellor Michael Alexander pushed back on the report, saying it took the university's worst financial year in the past six to make future projections and didn't take into account the revenue earned from one of its divisions. He said UW-Green Bay purposely spent down some of its reserves and is on target to close its deficit by the end of next school year. Undergraduate enrollment has held steady, despite demographic trends.

Deloitte's report was a "snapshot" from last fall and more current data presents an optimistic outlook for UW-Green Bay, Alexander said.

UW-Parkside

Declining enrollment and rising expenses are the key drivers to UW-Parkside's deficit. The university has cut 50 jobs, or nearly 10% of its workforce.

Assuming current trends continue, Deloitte forecasts the university's reserves will be fully depleted by the end of next school year and the campus will need UW System's support to remain operational.

UW-Parkside should "seek to re-align operations." The report suggested increasing enrollment and improving retention.

UW-Platteville

UW-Platteville's report included the same ominous line as UW-Oshkosh: "Without significant and immediate change, the future of the institution is at risk."

The university has less than a year of reserves left and needs to "immediately right-size," Deloitte said. The report asked what size UW-Platteville should be in the future.

UW-Platteville is already shrinking its workforce by eliminating 111 positions, a move Deloitte said showed the university's willingness to tackle challenges. Its student retention rates are another strength.

Some university units operate in a way to protect their own budget. The report encouraged approaching challenges as a single institution instead of siloed departments.

UW-River Falls

UW-River Falls is "on a trajectory of financial unsustainability" and needs to "right-size," the report said. The university should identify $7 million to $9 million though a combination of revenue-generation actions and cost-savings decisions soon.

Among the challenges cited in the report were a "perceived disconnect" between administration and academic units about the university's financial reality. In addition, "key tools such as enrollment projections and long-range plans do not yet exist" though leaders are working to build out infrastructure.

To save money, UW-River Falls has merged two of its colleges and initiated a hiring freeze. It will look to enroll more students in existing class sections.

UW-Superior

Declining undergraduate enrollment, low retention and financial instability at UW-Superior "threaten its future," the report said.

Deloitte's model projects the university will deplete its reserves within five years without any changes to existing operations. The report said it was "critical" that leaders evaluate how to grow revenue and cut costs.

UW-Whitewater

UW-Whitewater is in a "critical moment." At its current rate and without changes, the university will deplete its reserves by 2028.

Getting onto a path of financial sustainability will require "bold strategies." The report suggested boosting student retention. Bringing the rate back to pre-pandemic levels could generate up to $2.6 million annually.

The report also called for equipping the university with better financial tools to identify and resolve long-term financial problems.

What about other universities?

Reports on the remaining universities  UW-Milwaukee, UW-La Crosse, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Stevens Point and UW-Stout  will be released later this year. UW-Madison was not part of the review.

Contact Kelly Meyerhofer at kmeyerhofer@gannett.com or 414-223-5168. Follow her on X (Twitter) at @KellyMeyerhofer.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Some University of Wisconsin campuses need to right-size, report says
Woman dies after being mauled by 3 dogs in Portsmouth, police say

A woman died from her injuries after three dogs mauled her early Friday morning, Portsmouth police said.

Officers responded to a call on the 1800 block of Atlanta Avenue at 1:33 a.m., according to a release. They found the woman with life-threatening injuries. Medics took her to a hospital, where she died.

People who live nearby on Atlanta Avenue said they had seen dogs loose on the street several times. The animals were taken away early Friday morning after the mauling, two people said.

Police Chief Stephen Jenkins released a statement Friday afternoon expressing his profound sadness about the attack.

He corrected his previous statement that Portsmouth Animal Patrol hadnt had any interactions with the three dogs involved, saying that in fact they responded to three calls involving these dogs in the previous 12 months, one of which was concerning a bite injury.

The pit bulls involved in this tragedy have been swiftly removed from the residence and quarantined at an undisclosed animal facility, Jenkins said. While these dogs are now quarantined and no longer pose a threat to the Prentis Park community, we urge residents to refrain from trespassing or attempting to interact with animals without explicit permission from their owners, as this can help prevent future incidents of this nature.

Police have not identified the woman.

Cianna Morales, 757-957-1304, cianna.morales@virginiamedia.com
Woman fails to show up for prison, then posts that shes at the beach, officials say

A convicted woman who had her prison sentenced delayed multiple times for hardship was leading an active social life abroad, including lots of beach time, according to federal officials in Massachusetts.

She gave prosecutors all the proof they needed by posting extensively on social media, the U.S. Attorneys Office, District of Massachusetts, reported in an April 11 news release.

As a result, the former Boston resident pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months in prison  for not showing up on time for prison, district officials said.

The 55-year-old will serve the six months concurrently with her existing sentence, followed by three years of supervised release.

In May 2020, (the woman) was convicted of misusing a passport and was sentenced to 15 months in prison. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, (she) requested release on conditions and to self-report to serve her sentence, federal officials said.

The court granted this request and released (her) on an appearance bond. Following several extensions of her self-report date, (she) failed to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons in June 2021 to serve her sentence.

Investigators discovered their suspect was in the Dominican Republic where she posted various daily undertakings on Facebook, including trips to the beach, pool and social functions.

She was 20 months overdue for federal prison when the court forfeited her secured appearance bond and issued a default judgment of $47,500 against her, officials said.

Details of how she ended up back in the U.S. were not released.

She will be subject to deportation upon completion of her sentence, officials said.

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Woman found guilty after driving through Johnson City park in 2021

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  A woman was found guilty on a slew of charges after she drove recklessly through a downtown Johnson City park in 2021.

District Attorney General Steve Finneys office announced on Friday that Patricia Duenaz was found guilty of the following by a Washington County jury:

Felony reckless endangerment

Felony evading arrest

DUI  1st offense

Leaving the scene of an accident with injury

Joyriding

She was also found adjudicated guilty of a violation of implied consent charge.

On Sept. 12, 2021, Duenaz fled the scene after an attempted traffic stop. She reportedly drove recklessly through pedestiran areas in a downtown Johnson City park in an attempt to evade officers.

Officers then arrested the Duenaz after she crashed the vehicle and attempted to run away on foot.

Duenazs sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 9.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Authorities are asking for the publics help in locating the person or persons responsible for the gruesome homicide of a woman whose body was found engulfed in flames on an offramp of a Southern California highway almost a year and a half ago.

The body of the Karla Terron was discovered just before 5 a.m. on the southbound Hoskins Road offramp of State Route 99 in Bakersfield on Dec. 17, 2022, according to a special bulletin released by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

An autopsy performed later determined that the victims cause of death was not the fire, but multiple stab wounds.

Murder of woman found engulfed in flames in Southern California unsolved

Terron was last seen alive at a local bar in the 100 block of North Hagar Street in San Fernando, though authorities did not say when exactly that was.

Grisly L.A. murder-suicide that left infant dead reportedly linked to eclipse

Anyone with information about this investigation or the whereabouts of the person or persons involved is urged to contact LASDs Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.

Those wishing to remain anonymous can use the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or leave tips online at L.A. Crimes Stoppers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Woman missing after armed carjacking believed to be dead, Seminole County sheriff says

Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma said the woman who went missing after a carjacking is believed to be dead.

In a news conference Friday, Sheriff Lemma gave the timeline of the incident and said a body was found in a car fire, which matched the vehicle in the carjacking  a white Dodge Durango.

DNA evidence will confirm if the body that deputies found in the car fire is the same woman.

Lemma said 31-year-old Katherine Altagracia Guerrero De Aguasvivas, who was from Homestead, traveled from South Florida to Central Florida. She reached Seminole County through downtown Orlando around 2 p.m.

Investigators said she arrived at a Shell gas station near State Road 436 and US-1792 and pumped gas.

Read: Have you seen her? Woman missing after possible carjacking in Seminole County, deputies say

De Aguasvivas then traveled north, entered Casselberry, and reached the East Lake Drive and Tuskawilla Road intersection, where a cell phone video from a nearby car was captured.

Lemma said a green Acura behind De Aguasvivas was ramming into the back of her car, so she called her husband for advice, and he told her not to stop anywhere.

Investigators suspect a person from the Acura jumped in the seat behind the drivers seat.

Read: Dive teams checking lakes, ponds in search for missing Mount Dora mother of 3

The occupant of the Acura, who was wearing a black hoodie and ski mask, was holding an automatic handgun and pointed it directly at De Aguasvivas, Lemma said.

From there, the suspect told her where to go at gunpoint and traveled through several counties until reaching an Osceola County construction area on Boggy Creek Road, where the truck was found on fire.

Because there was so much damage, investigators could not positively identify the person found dead in the vehicle.

Read: Person shot in school pickup line in Brevard County

Lemma also said her time in Seminole County was less than an hour, and the time from Seminole to Osceola County was about an hour and 45 minutes.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Woman pleads guilty to embezzling over $300K from law firm in Roanoke

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR)  The Roanoke City Commonwealth Attorney says a woman has pled guilty to several charges including credit card fraud and embezzlement after taking thousands from her employer.

According to Attorney Donald Caldwell, Amy Padgett was previously indicted by the Roanoke City Grand Jury on the following:

Four counts of embezzlement

Two counts of credit card fraud,

Forgery

All charges were related to her employment with the Shapiro Law Firm, P.C. between 2019 and 2023. However, as part of her plea agreement, she was found guilty of credit card fraud, forgery, and two counts of embezzlement.

Hundreds of shoes stolen in kidnapping, robbery of Virginia man, feds say

According to evidence introduced into the court, Padgett was hired as a legal secretary for the law firm. As part of her position, she had access to the firms bank accounts and credit cards. From the start of 2020 to the end of 2022, Padget cashed more than $275,000 in checks written by herself from the Sharpio Law Firm accounts.

Attorney Caldwell says this amount was more than $180,000 over what she should have received from her salary.

As the Roanoke Police Department and Virginia State Bar continued their investigation, it was discovered that the Shapiro Law credit card was used to pay rent to Park Place Realty, LLC for Padgetts home and beauty treatments. The attorney says the card was fraudulently used to pay for over $30,000 of her expenses.

The Roanoke City Commonwealth Attorney also learned that Padgett provided falsified bank statements to Virginia State Bar investigators.

The Attorneys Office says Padgett is facing up to 55 years in prison.

Her sentencing is scheduled for July 20 at 10 a.m. at the Circuit Court of Roanoke City.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
Uno Reverse

A woman is suing Tesla after her toddler ran her over in her Model X back in 2018  while she was eight and a half months pregnant with her second child.

According to court filings, Mallory Harcourt's son, who was just two years old at the time, was able to start the car and hit her at her home in Santa Barbara after "escaping" from her side while she tried to change his diaper, the Miami Herald reports.

The toddler reportedly touched the brake pedal in the footwell, causing the vehicle to start and the driver's side door to automatically close.

Her son "reached up and touched the gear shift lever on the stalk of the steering wheel, which shifted the car out of park and into drive," the filing reads. "[He] then contacted the accelerator pedal, which caused the car to begin moving forward."

Drive By

The collision was reportedly severe enough to break bones. Fortunately, Harcourt was quickly whisked off to a nearby hospital and eventually gave birth to her daughter just a week later. The week at the hospital, however, resulted in over $73,000 in medical expenses, Harcourt's attorneys say.

Harcourt is accusing Tesla of manufacturing a "defective" vehicle, despite advertising the Model X as the "safest SUV on the market." Her attorneys claim the EV maker is at fault for the collision "due to the Tesla's unsafe design."

Meanwhile, Tesla has shot back, arguing that the unfortunate event was a "result of Ms. Harcourts own negligence in leaving her son unattended," according to a statement reviewed by the Miami Herald.

The news comes just days after Tesla settled with a family who sued the company over the death of Walter Huang, an Apple engineer and father of two who died after his Model X SUV crashed into a highway barrier in 2018 while the vehicle's Autopilot feature was turned on.

This particular case, however, feels a little different as the carmaker's controversial driver assistance feature seemingly wasn't involved.

It's now up to a jury in California's Superior Court to decide whether Tesla's vehicle design is to blame for allowing a toddler to run over his own mother.

More on Tesla: The Cybertruck's Battery Pack Is Half Empty, a Teardown Found
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The owner of a defunct construction company that the state of Tennessee claims defrauded homeowners of more than $2 million is negotiating a potential plea deal on federal criminal wire fraud charges, which can net up to 20 years in prison.

RELATED: Wood Construction customer would like for him to go to jail

Multiple alleged victims of Wood Construction and Remodeling have received letters from the U.S. Department of Justices Victim Notification Service informing them about a proposed plea agreement. Theyve been invited to a conference call April 16 so they can learn about the proposal and provide input.

Leighton Joe Wood is accused of ripping off dozens of homeowners in multiple states, mostly in 2020 and 2021. Hes alleged to have deceptively advertised the services of Wood Construction and Remodeling LLC, collected deposits and follow-up payments, and not completed (or sometimes even started) work.

News Channel 11 broke the story of allegations against Wood Construction in early October 2021.

The federal criminal code defines wire fraud as intentionally using electronic communication in a scheme or artifice to defraud someone of money, with the prosecution having to prove false statements, or at least half-truths, were made with the intention to deceive.

Sentencing guidelines show a wide range for wire fraud convictions, going as low as six months for someone with no criminal record and no aggravating factors. Sentences can ramp up quickly, with loss amount, use of mass marketing and number of victims all aggravating factors that in Woods case appear to potentially push a sentencing range to over six years.

Jacci Wallace of Bristol, Tenn. is among the victims who received a letter about Tuesdays call. In 2021, Wallace and her husband paid more than $80,000 on $150,000 in contracts for a complete home remodel plus an addition and a bathroom remodel in another house. Neither was done and the $130,000 full remodel and addition wasnt even started.

Ive got kind of mixed feelings about it, Wallace told News Channel 11 several days after receiving the victim notification letter. If we all get our money back, which is potentially whats going to happen, then I dont think its a terrible thing, but I certainly dont think its justice.

A photo showing Jacci Wallaces bathroom as it was left by contractors working under Wood Construction. (Jacci Wallace)

Woods Tennessee contracting license was suspended in the fall of 2021 and he and his wife, Cameron, moved to the Charlotte metro area not long after. Some victims began filing criminal complaints and communicating with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (FBI) nearly two and a half years ago.

Charges have not yet been filed in this case, but our office has been engaged in plea discussions to bring about a resolution of the longer-term investigation that the FBI and TBI have conducted, an April 4 letter to multiple victims from Victim Assistance Specialist Paige Chiaro reads.

Negotiations with Woods criminal defense lawyer have reached the stage of a plea agreement that would entail Mr. Wood entering a plea of guilty to the federal crime of wire fraud, the letter adds.

Woods attorney, former federal prosecutor Lynette Byrd, responded Friday with an emailed statement following News Channel 11s request for comment on his behalf:

Mr. Wood has been working cooperatively with federal and state authorities from the onset of this situation years ago. We continue to do so and look forward to reaching a resolution. Until such time, unfortunately, we are unable to provide a more detailed comment.

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Wallaces parents paid for the work that was supposed to be done on the second house. She said a victim advocate told her mother theres a third party who hopefully is stepping up to make his victims whole.

I dont think any of us will be okay with a plea deal if we are not going to get our money back.

Feds wish to have your input

Chiaros letter says victims have the right to reasonably confer with the attorney for the Government in the case.

It says during Tuesdays call we will explain the proposed plea agreement and attempt to answer questions you may have and that the Department of Justice wish(es) to have your input.

A plea agreement would resolve case 2022R00175, the letter says, preventing the need for a trial.

Wood also faces a civil suit filed by Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti in September 2023. It seeks more than $2 million in restitution for 94 victims.

Families hopeful now that TN AG has sued Wood Construction

Two months after Skrmettis office filed the suit, the Woods, who now live in Indian Land, S.C. outside Charlotte, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in South Carolina. The bankruptcy trustee successfully argued for that case to convert to Chapter 7, alleging the Woods were trying to abuse the bankruptcy process in order to avoid paying debts.

Numerous individual alleged victims have also sued Wood in various courts in both Tennessee and North Carolina.

Through all the legal action, victims have consistently told News Channel 11 they question whether theyll ever get any financial restitution  and many have freely said they think Wood deserves some jail time.

Friday, Wallace said shes not sure what her opinion will be if restitution isnt part of the plea agreement but jail time is.

I think Id have to wait and see what the jail (time) actually was, she said.

Thats hard if none of us get our money back. He really hurt people. People lived in torn apart houses and they did so much damage to peoples property. I think if part of the deal isnt that we all get paid back, I dont know that Id be okay with a deal.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac Heavener is leading the prosecution of Woods case.

A Department of Justice spokesperson wrote that the Eastern District of Tennessee has no comment on pending litigation, in response to an inquiry Friday morning.

TBI spokeswoman Leslie Earhart confirmed, We still have an open and active case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
New York City employee arrested on duty in the Bronx: NYPD

THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11)  A teachers aide in the Bronx was arrested while at work on Thursday, according to officials.

London King, 35, was arrested around 2:30 p.m. for allegedly sending harassing text messages, according to police.

Thousands of NYC jobs available on citys website

King was charged with:

Endangering the welfare of a child

Aggravated Harassment

Additional information regarding the incident was not immediately available.

Jonathan Rizk is a digital journalist who has covered local news in New York City and Washington, D.C. He has been with PIX11 since August 2022. See more of his work here, and follow him on X and Facebook @OfficialRizk. Get in touch at jonathan.rizk@pix11.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
DOVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WHTM)  Police in York County are investigating an alleged child luring attempt.

Northern York County Regional Police say on April 11 around 8 a.m. officers investigated an incident on the 2400 block of W. Canal Road.

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A 14-year-old girl reported walking eastbound on W. Canal Road when a dark blue pickup drove past her. The truck then pulled over on the shoulder in front of the Dover Township Municipal building, stopped, and then parked in the parking lot.

The teen reported walking past when a man in the vehicle asked her to come over. The girl continued to walk when the truck exited and started to drive behind her.

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The teen says the man yelled at her again before she walked onto the lawn of the Dover Township building. The truck reportedly continued east on W. Canal Road.

Police say the driver, described as an African American man 30-50 with short hair and a muscular build, did not exit the truck. The teen reported that the truck was missing its front bumper.

If you can identify the pickup truck or the driver you are asked to contact the Northern York County Regional Police Department at 717.467.TELL (8355) or tips@nycrpd.org.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
The lettering "thyssenkrupp" can be seen on a sign in front of the company headquarters. Jonas Guttler/dpa

Thyssenkrupp Steel's announcement late on Thursday of production cuts at its plant in the western German city of Duisburg has raised alarm and concern among local leaders.

Thyssenkrupp management announced that production capacity in Duisburg would be significantly reduced, including through "as yet unquantified job losses."

Around 27,000 people currently work for thyssenkrupp Steel, Germany's largest steelmaker and a division of industrial giant thyssenkrupp. About 13,000 of those workers are employed in Duisburg.

A labour agreement between tyssenkrupp Steel and trade unions currently rules out mandatory redundancies through March 2026. The company said it hopes to continue to avoid redundancies even as it implements the production cuts.

Thyssenkrupp plans to reduce production capacity in Duisburg from the current 11.5 million tons per year to between 9 and 9.5 million tons per year, a reduction of about 17-22%.

Production volumes in Duisburg also include steel produced by the Duisburg-based Huttenwerke Krupp Mannesmann (HKM), which is 50% owned by thyssenkrupp Steel.

The economy minister for the state of North Rhine Westphalia, which includes Duisburg, called the news "disappointing" for workers, the region and all of Germany.

The minister, Mona Neubaur, pointedly noted that thyssenkrupp has received billions of dollars in government support in recent years and called on the company to find a fair solution for affected workers.

Germany was once a global leader in steel production, but has seen the steel industry struggle in recent decades against often lower-cost overseas competitors.

Neubaur said thyssenkrupp needs to press ahead with plans to make its production processes more climate-friendly as a way toward a sustainable future.

A major planned construction programme for the Duisburg site - replacing a blast furnace with a hydrogen-powered direct reduction plant and two smelters - should move forward, she said.

The project was planned in coordination with the European Commission, she noted. Public subsidies are covering about two-thirds of the 3 billion ($3.2 billion) price tag.

Thyssenkrupp Steel said that it would continue the conversion of production towards climate-neutral steelmaking.

"The construction of the first direct reduction plant at the Duisburg site will continue to be implemented as planned, with the support of the subsidies released for this purpose by the federal and state governments," the company said.

The goal of achieving completely climate-neutral production by 2045 at the latest also remains unchanged, according to the company.
Young kids found abandoned in filthy apartment as mom goes on cruise, Texas cops say

A 6-year-old and 8-year-old were left alone in an apartment as their mother went on a cruise, Texas deputies said.

The 29-year-old mother was seen leaving the Houston apartment building with luggage on April 4, neighbors told authorities. After multiple days, building residents noticed she hadnt returned, according to court documents.

McClatchy News is not identifying the mother to protect the identity of the children.

Neighbors told Harris County deputies it was not the first time a similar incident had happened, documents said.

Deputies were called to the apartment on April 9 for a wellness check, according to the documents.

They found the two young children alone in the apartment, which was in complete disarray, deputies said. Trash and food were scattered around the floor, and there was a potent smell of urine in the apartment, deputies said.

The mother had watched and communicated with her children through a camera in the apartment, the documents said. The 8-year-old also had a phone used to text the mother, deputies said.

Child Protective Services was contacted and the childrens aunt took custody of the children, deputies said.

The mother was arrested on April 11 on a charge of child abandonment. She was booked into Harris County Jail on a $40,000 bond, according to jail records.

Attorney information for the mother was not listed.

She is scheduled to appear in court on April 15.

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A 19-year-old dad-to-be was fatally shot by his aunts obsessed ex-boyfriend when he got in between a domestic spat in an East Harlem apartment, the devastated woman told the Daily News on Thursday.

Ramon Alvarez was inside his apartment on E. 112th St. near Third Ave.  part of NYCHAs Jefferson Houses  around 3:30 a.m. Wednesday when his aunts ex pushed his way into the home.

He took out his gun and he shot, pow, pow, said Melidy Adega, 38. [Alvarez] was getting up from sleep when he heard the commotion.

As the man aimlessly fired the gun, Alvarez rushed into the room to see what was going on.

He shot my nephew first, said Adega. He was shooting in the dark.

The man then turned and pointed the gun at Adegas face, but the woman grabbed the barrel before he could fire off a shot, she recalled. She was grazed in the shoulder.

When medics arrived at the scene, Alvarez was conscious and talking.

They were banging on my door telling me someone had been shot, said neighbor Angel Rivera, 64. EMTs brought him out on the stretcher.

He was taken to Harlem Hospital, where he took a turn for the worse and died, police said.

Adega and the gunman had been dating on and off for about four years before she recently ended the abusive relationship.

Hed come over and he started acting violent, Adega claimed of the shooter. When he said he was going to kill me, I never took it seriously.

The gunman sped off on a bicycle, ditching the gun as he made his escape, officials said.

Alvarezs apartment remained a crime scene Thursday night. Neighbors told The News he lived there with his family.

The young man and his girlfriend were expecting a baby boy next month and planned to celebrate the arrival at a shower scheduled for this weekend.

Shes devastated, Adega said of the victims girlfriend. Thats their first child, and hell never even see the birth.

The slain man was working for the citys Department of Parks & Recreation and working to get his GED, according to the mother-to-bes brother.

He was going to be a great dad, Dorian Lawrence said. Were all very hurt.

Im at a loss for words.

On Thursday, police arrested the 53-year-old gunman in the Bronx. Charges against him were pending as of the evening.

He has 27 prior arrests, 17 of which are felonies, according to police sources.
Young men in violent parts of Philadelphia, Chicago die from guns at a higher rate than US troops in the heat of battle

Mass shootings tend to dominate the debate over gun violence  but they accounted for just 3% of all firearm homicides in the United States in 2021.

The vast majority of gun homicides are murders that happen in an extremely concentrated number of neighborhoods  places where the rate of gun deaths rivals war zones.

As a scholar of gun violence and victimization in the United States, I study and publish research on the geographic and demographic concentration of shootings, and Im always searching for new perspectives to help people understand this crisis.

Concentrated disadvantage

Shootings happen over and over in the same locations. About half take place in just 1% to 5% of the land area in U.S. cities  in other words, in a tiny percentage of the nations homes, stores, parks and street corners.

These same neighborhoods tend to suffer from what criminologists call concentrated disadvantage  an unsavory mix of high crime rates, illegal drug markets, poverty, limited educational and economic opportunities, and residential instability. Cumulatively, these factors decrease the residents ability to maintain public order and safety in the ways that safer neighborhoods do informally by confronting violent behavior or supervising teenagers.

Kids who grow up in these neighborhoods suffer the long-lasting repercussions of exposure to violence, such as high levels of stress and trauma that dampen educational attainment and result in decreased cognitive ability.

The demographics of these neighborhoods means that both victims and perpetrators of shootings are disproportionately young Black men. Young Black men represented 93.9% of firearm-related homicide victims in Chicago and 79.3% of gun homicides in Philadelphia  where young Hispanic men make up another 12.9%. Homicides disproportionately affect the young largely because men ages 15 to 25 are more likely to engage in delinquent and criminal behavior, a phenomenon known as the age-crime curve.

How bad is it? For some young men, it can be safer to be in the U.S. military at war than living at home in the most violent neighborhoods of Philadelphia and Chicago.

How we did this work

This finding comes from a study my co-authors, Brandon Del Pozo and Aaron Chalfin, and I did to compare shooting rates in Philadelphia, Chicago, New York and Los Angeles with casualty rates of U.S. military personnel during the recent campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Our paper is published in JAMA Network Open, an open-source medical journal, and is freely available to read.

We first collected all publicly available city-level data on shooting deaths, including the time, exact place and information about the victim. Our study focused on Philadelphia, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago because they were the largest American cities with public data available. However, gun homicides happen everywhere, with notable rates of gun homicides in St. Louis, Missouri; Baltimore; New Orleans; Detroit and Cleveland.

In military zones

For the military casualties, we relied on the estimates from studies of the mortality of U.S. soldiers at war in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Afghan War was deadlier, with 395 deaths of U.S. combatants per 100,000 people per year, compared with 330 in Iraq. We used the higher rate from the Afghan War as our reference, setting its value as 1 and expressing the homicide rate in other places in relationship to this benchmark.

How places compare

The most violent ZIP code in Philadelphia is 19132 in North Philadelphia, which includes parts of Strawberry Mansion and the blocks further north and east. The violence of these city streets was captured by sociologist Elijah Anderson in his ethnographic study Code of the Street, published in 2000.

A young man living in this ZIP code had 1.91 times more annual risk of getting killed with a firearm than a U.S. soldier deployed to Afghanistan for a comparable amount of time.

During 2020 and 2021, this ZIP code was home to about 2,500 young men. Thirty-seven were killed in gun homicides.

A similar calculation for the most violent neighborhood of Chicago, an area around Garfield Park with the ZIP code 60624, yields statistics that are even grimmer. Young men living there were 3.23 times more likely to die from a bullet than U.S. service members deployed to Afghanistan. Sixty-six young men were shot dead during 2020 and 2021.

Moreover, survivors of this violence bear the burden of it for the whole time they live in these neighborhoods. In contrast, the average deployment is less than 12 months.

Complicating the narrative

Research papers like ours can raise many yeah but questions. Answering them can better help us understand the limitations of our study.

For example, many service members do not engage in active combat. This fact made our research team wonder if the inclusion of data from personnel in safer support roles was skewing our data, so we specifically looked at the casualties of one U.S. brigade combat team that was heavily engaged during the Iraq War.

The brigade had a casualty rate 1.71 times higher than our benchmark. That means that members of the brigade were still safer than male youth in the most violent area of Philadelphia (with a casualty rate of 1.91 times higher) and Chicago (3.23 times higher).

It is also worth noting that we studied two particularly violent years in U.S. cities. 2020 saw a record increase in homicide rates. That number stayed high in 2021, before decreasing slightly in 2022.

Lastly, on a more positive note, gun mortality in New York and Los Angeles was significantly lower than in Philadelphia and Chicago, and much lower than the risks faced in war.

Faster care could help

Our research also showed that soldiers who are injured on the battlefield are less likely to die from their wounds than people shot in the American cities we studied.

Surviving a wound is more likely if medical help is immediate. This suggests two ideas to decrease shooting deaths: train more police officers to provide urgent basic medical treatment to the victims of gun violence and add capacity to trauma centers near violent neighborhoods.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Alex Knorre, Boston College

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Alex Knorre does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Zelensky meets with Hungarian president at Three Seas Summit in Lithuania

During the Three Seas Summit in Vilnius on April 11, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with the newly appointed Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, and extended an invitation for Hungary to join the Global Peace Summit scheduled for June in Switzerland.

Zelensky also invited Hungary to participate in the G7 Vilnius Declaration of Support for Ukraine, and suggested initiating a bilateral security agreement between the two countries.

The Three Seas Initiative (TSI), comprising 13 EU member states, serves as a platform for addressing economic and infrastructure concerns among its participants.

In 2022, Ukraine was granted partner-participant status within the TSI during its seventh summit in Riga.

The following year Ukraine became an associate member, gaining access to all resources and mechanisms within the initiative, according to Ukraine's government website.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto told public radio on March 24 that ending the Russia-Ukraine war as soon as possible and initiating peace talks is in Hungarys fundamental interest, according to the Budapest Times. However, Szijjarto later said that Hungary will continue to reject participation in any political or financial initiatives involving weapons aid to Ukraine, as it would create a risk of escalation.

Tamas Sulyok assumed office as Hungary's President in March, following the resignation of his predecessor, Katalin Novak.

Read also: Zelensky arrives in Lithuania for Three Seas Summit

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Apple has warned iPhone users of a recent and extremely powerful cybersecurity hack.

A terrifying and extremely advanced cyberattack has impacted iPhone users from at least 92 countries, including India, Reuters reported.

Parent company Apple warned targeted users in an email that hackers aimed to remotely compromise the iPhone and updated its guidance about these cases of highly sophisticated device infiltration Wednesday.

Called mercenary attacks, they actually dont hone in on average users to lift a bank account number or other personal information. Everyday people typically are never a target at all even.

Apple is warning users about an extremely concerning cyberattack impacting users globally. Getty Images

Instead, they commonly target high-profile individuals  likely because of who they are or what they do  in small numbers.

They typically include politicians, diplomats, journalists and activists, according to Apple.

The extreme cost, sophistication and worldwide nature of mercenary spyware attacks makes them some of the most advanced digital threats in existence today, Apple wrote in its new guidance.

An extremely advanced cyber attack has impacted iPhone users around the world. Getty Images

Such attacks are vastly more complex than regular cybercriminal activity and consumer malware, as mercenary spyware attackers apply exceptional resources to target a very small number of specific individuals and their devices.

Mercenary spyware attacks are exceptionally well funded and they evolve over time.

Mercenary attacks are some of the most powerful cybersecurity breaches known. Getty Images

While the latest warning removes the term state-sponsored  Reuters reported that Apple came under fire last fall over an incident with the Indian government and its opposition leaders  the tech giant still notes these attacks have historically been associated with state actors.

Other times, a proxy can be used on a nations behalf.

Mercenary attacks are commonly tied into state actors. Getty Images/iStockphoto

Since 2021, users in at least 150 nations have been warned by Apple that their devices might have been impacted by the exceptionally well funded attacks that have been improving and evolving over time.

If affected, a Threat Notification will appear online at the top of an Apple webpage after users sign in with their Apple ID through appleid.apple.com.

Apple will then send both an email and iMessage ping to the users phone and associated email address.
Claim:

The silhouette of a person's head used as the default profile icon for Microsoft Outlook 2010 was based on a police mug shot taken of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates in 1977.

Rating:

Rating: Research In Progress

The outline of the default profile icon for Microsoft Outlook's 2010 program has long been compared to the silhouette of a 1977 mugshot of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. We looked into the claim and found that while the similarity is striking, neither Microsoft nor Gates himself has officially responded to the claim, much less confirmed its accuracy.

In 1977, Bill Gates was arrested in Albuquerque, New Mexico for running a red light and driving without a license. The Harvard drop-out was 21 or 22 at the time, and he publicly spoke about the incident in a 2007 profile for Time Magazine.

More than 30 years later, Microsoft Outlook 2010 was released. Within months, a site called Ars Technica published a piece [archived here] pointing out the similarity between the two outlines, including a side by side visual comparison.

(arstechnica.com)

The Ars Technica article made the following assertion:

That isn't just anyone's silhouette, however. Our eagle-eyed editor-in-chief, Ken Fisher, noticed that the silhouette has a striking resemblance to one William H. Gates III. Quite how he noticed this is anybody's guesswe suspect he has a framed picture of the Microsoft founder and philanthropist mounted on his wall. And it's not just any old picture of Bill Gates that some cheeky Outlook developer has used. Oh no. It's a picture from one of the man's finest moments. It's the picture taken in Albuquerque, New Mexico, way back in 1977, when he was arrested for a driving offense, the exact nature of which is lost to the sands of time. It's the man's mug-shot.

Over the years, numerous posts have made the same claim on multiple sites, including Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook.

From our own previous investigation, we know that the mugshot itself is authentic. The Microsoft Outlook 2010 default profile icon is also authentic; it can be found on an official Microsoft webpage. (We don't know exactly when Microsoft stopped using the silhouette for this purpose, but it is absent from the 2021 release of Outlook.)

(learn.microsoft.com)

We reached out to Microsoft for confirmation, and have not yet received a response, as of this writing. This story will be updated upon receiving confirmation or comment from Microsoft.

In sum, because neither Microsoft nor Gates himself has publicly addressed this speculation and we have not yet received a response confirming or denying the similarity of the two images, this claim is rated "Research in Progress."

Sources:

'Article Clipped from The Times Recorder'. The Times Recorder, 15 Aug. 1998, p. 6. newspapers.com, https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-recorder/99976411/.

BmyGuest. 'Was Bill Gates' Mugshot Photo Used in 2010 as a Template for Outlook Contacts?' Skeptics Stack Exchange, 25 Sept. 2020, https://skeptics.stackexchange.com/q/48565.

Chakravarty, Sayan. 'Bill Gates the Savage Troll - Used by Billions, the Default Outlook Contact Pic Was Actually Based on the Mug Shot of the Microsoft Founder from the Time He Was Arrested for Speeding in His Porsche.' Luxurylaunches, 18 Oct. 2021, https://luxurylaunches.com/celebrities/outlook-contact-pic-bill-gates.php.

Cloud-Writer. How to Manage Outlook Social Connector by Using Group Policy - Outlook. 30 Jan. 2024, https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook/troubleshoot/deployment/how-to-manage-outlook-social-connector-via-group-policy.

Grossman, Lev. 'Bill Gates Goes Back to School'. Time, 7 June 2007. content.time.com, https://content.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,1630564-1,00.html.

'Https://Twitter.Com/Wowstartsnow/Status/1667171172386058244'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/wowstartsnow/status/1667171172386058244. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

Ibrahim, Nur. 'Is This a Mugshot of Bill Gates After Arrest for Traffic Violations?' Snopes, 18 Apr. 2022, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/mugshot-bill-gates-arrested/.

Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/unilad/p/C3uk96qsFxQ/. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

Popa, Bogdan. 'Did You Know? The Default Microsoft Outlook Contact Pic Was Bill Gates' Mug Shot'. Softpedia, 17 Apr. 2018, https://news.softpedia.com/news/did-you-know-the-default-microsoft-outlook-contact-pic-was-bill-gates-mug-shot-520636.shtml.

Staff, Ars. 'Is That Bill Gates Staring Back at You from Outlook 2010?' Ars Technica, 24 Sept. 2010, https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2010/09/bill-gates-staring-back-at-you-from-outlook-2010/.
Google says it will reduce some user access to California news sites

Google plans to remove links to California news sites from its search results for some users. (Don Ryan / Associated Press)

Google said Friday it would remove links to California news sites from its search results for some of its users, as it pushes back against a pending bill that would require the Silicon Valley technology company to pay publishers.

The online search giant said the bill, called the California Journalism Preservation Act (CJPA), would upend its business model. The bill, if signed into law, would require companies including Google to fork over a "journalism usage fee" when they sell ads next to news content.

"We have long said that this is the wrong approach to supporting journalism," Jaffer Zaidi, vice president of Google's Global News Partnerships, wrote in a blog post Friday. "If passed, CJPA may result in significant changes to the services we can offer Californians and the traffic we can provide to California publishers."

Google also said it is "pausing further investments in the California news ecosystem."

Read more: California bill requiring Big Tech to pay for news placed on hold until 2024

Many news outlets rely on sites such as Google and Facebook to distribute their news, but they are at the whim of the companies' algorithms.

"Google removing news is undemocratic and antithetical to open access to information," Danielle Coffey, president and CEO of News/Media Alliance, said regarding Google's actions Friday. "Its power move with the government is a symptom of a larger problem: the dominance and market power of a single company. The need for the California Journalism Preservation Act could not be more clear."

News outlets, including the Los Angeles Times, have laid off staff in part because of revenue shortfalls blamed on the decline of print journalism and weak advertising dollars.

National news organizations such as the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal also have laid off staff, as have primarily digital operations including BuzzFeed, Business Insider and Vice.

Local online outlet L.A. Taco, which recently put most of its staff on furlough, said one of the factors leading to its struggles include "Google's A.I. that pulls information for its self-generated responses from news organizations without linking back." It also cited changing audience habits as people gravitate toward watching influencer-style videos instead of reading articles.

"These two factors essentially destroyed journalism's business model overnight," wrote Javier Cabral, L.A. Taco's editor.

The California Journalism Preservation Act is supported by the California News Publishers Assn. and the News/Media Alliance, of which The Times is a member.

Brittney Barsotti, general counsel at the California News Publishers Assn., said the action by Google shows why the legislation is "absolutely necessary."

"It's disgraceful they are blocking news to the public that needs it and punishing local publishers out of fear of legislation," Barsotti said.

Read more: L.A. Times to lay off at least 115 people in the newsroom

Supporters of the California bill said it would help level the playing field for journalism outlets that have been struggling with gaining enough digital subscriptions to survive.

The bill would require eligible news outlets to spend at least 70% of the money received on their staff. Smaller newsrooms could spend a smaller percentage.

"Just to understand the difference in market dynamics, just consider that Google earns enough advertising revenue to pay for the [annual] cost of our newsroom in less than three hours," Chris Argentieri, president and chief operating officer of the Los Angeles Times, said at a hearing last year discussing the bill. "Google's revenue for a month or two would cover the cost of all working journalists in California.

"Large digital platforms like Google and Meta use our content to generate billions of dollars in revenue and do not compensate us for it," Argentieri said. "The size of the companies makes it impossible for us or anyone in our industry, for that matter, to have a seat at the table to resolve this issue through normal business channels."

Outside the U.S., the Australian Broadcasting Corp. said it benefited from a law that requires digital platforms to negotiate on compensation to news providers. The network said it added more than 50 journalists in regional Australia.

Read more: California bill would force Big Tech to pay for news content

Critics of the bill, including Google, say that it would favor media conglomerates and hedge funds and put smaller outlets at a disadvantage.

The Mountain View, Calif., company said it has partnered with more than 7,000 global news publishers through its Google News Initiative, including 6,000 journalists in California, but Zaidi said the company was pausing expansion of that initiative "until there's clarity on California's regulatory environment."

The initiative has helped provide grants and training to journalists on digital tools. Just 2% of queries on Google search are news-related, Zaidi wrote.

"By helping people find news stories, we help publishers of all sizes grow their audiences at no cost to them," Zaidi wrote. "CJPA would upend that model."

Sign up for our Wide Shot newsletter to get the latest entertainment business news, analysis and insights.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Nations first 220 mph trains are on their way to the Central Valley

MERCED, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The nations first 220 mph trains are a step closer to running up and down the Central Valley.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority is now asking both Alstom Transportation and Siemens Mobility for their proposals to manufacture high-speed trainsets.

Hydrogen trains are coming to the Central Valley

Once approved, the contract will fund six trainsets capable of operating at 220 mph  and tested up to 242 mph. The contract will include two prototype trainsets to support testing and trial running, as well as four trains for passenger operations on the 171-mile Merced to Bakersfield section.

Rendering of what the train interior could look like (image provided by the High-Speed Rail Authority)

The High-Speed Rail Authority says their work has so far created more than 13,000 construction jobs, mostly in the Central Valley. They have begun work to extend the 119 miles currently under constriction to 171 miles of future electrified high-speed rail from Merced to Bakersfield.

There are currently over 25 active construction sites in the Central Valley, with the Authority having also fully environmentally cleared 422 miles of the high-speed rail program from the Bay Area to Los Angeles County.

The authority hopes to award a contract by the end of the year, with the proposals themselves due in the fall.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
Xcel Energy initially pinpointed the cause of a lengthy outage at its Prairie Island nuclear power plant as an equipment issue between the turbine and the electric grid.

But that didn't quite tell the full story: Xcel workers at the plant actually cut a bundle of power cables when drilling sideways underground last October, interrupting power to some of the Red Wing plant's equipment and causing one of the two reactors to shut down.

Xcel told federal nuclear regulators last month it did not use ground radar in an area that would have shown the cables' location. The company also said its excavation planning and oversight was inadequate, admitting to "procedural weaknesses and poor communications" between departments.

"This resulted in work progressing in the field without all controls in place that would be expected for work at a nuclear plant," an Xcel filing with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission read.

Dave Lochbaum, a nuclear safety engineer formerly with the Union of Concerned Scientists, said the plant's systems worked as intended when the reactor safely shut down. But he said cutting into power cables could have been a safety risk for the workers, which Xcel acknowledged as well.

"We know that any electrical contact can potentially be hazardous," Xcel spokesman Kevin Coss said. "None of the workers operating the drilling equipment were hurt when it impacted the cables. To prevent similar issues in the future, we have made changes to how we approach excavation projects as well as our oversight of workers coming to the plant for projects."

In April, Xcel told the Minnesota Department of Commerce it realized the damaged cables were aging and at risk of water damage after inspecting them. That would have likely caused both units at Prairie Island to shut down in the future, Xcel said.

In March, Commerce also asked why Xcel customers should pay for the Unit 1 outage. In regulatory filings, the company said customers should cover the cost of fuel and power it bought on the energy market in place of nuclear energy during the Unit 1 outage because, despite causing the problem, Xcel was operating prudently.

"Prudence does not mean perfection, and even prudent decisions and operations can sometimes result in undesirable outcomes," Xcel wrote.

Unit 1 at Prairie Island went down on Oct. 19. That caused a longer-than-expected outage at the plant's second unit, too, which had powered down two weeks earlier for scheduled refueling and maintenance.

Xcel expected both reactors to be up and running in January, but the company did not begin running both units at the plant again consistently until mid March.

The Xcel workers drilling underground were helping to replace a different power cable between an electric substation and the plant. The company replaced the damaged cables rather than repair them. Xcel also took time when the plant was offline to do a more thorough plant inspection than it could have otherwise, among other maintenance, which will avoid the need to shut down both units in the future for that work.

The aging nuclear plants are a crucial part of Xcel's plans for a carbon-free energy grid by 2040. Nuclear makes up about 30% of the utility's power supply in the Upper Midwest.

Xcel wants to extend the life of its two units at Prairie Island so they can run until 2053 and 2054, 20 years beyond when their current licenses expire, something that requires state and federal approval. Xcel has also asked the Public Utilities Commission for permission to store more nuclear waste at the site in above-ground casks.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 12, 2024) - GOLD HUNTER RESOURCES INC. (CSE: HUNT) (the "Company" or "Gold Hunter") is pleased to provide an important update regarding the distribution (the "Distribution") of shares (the "FireFly Shares") of FireFly Metals Ltd. (ASX: FFM) ("FireFly") to Gold Hunter's shareholders (the "Shareholders"). This update details the steps the Company is taking to facilitate the Distribution.

Court Affidavit and Distribution Process

On April 8th, 2024, the Company filed a Petition to the Court, Notice of Hearing (For Final Order), and the 1st Affidavit of Sean Kingsley, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, with the Supreme Court of British Columbia (together, the "Court Materials") in connection with the Distribution by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") under section 288 of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Pursuant to the Notice of Hearing, the hearing for the final order to obtain court approval (the "Court Approval") for the Arrangement, will take place on April 24th, 2024. Subject to the Company receiving the Court Approval, the Company will announce the record date (the "Record Date") for the Distribution following the hearing on April 24th, 2024. The Court Materials are available on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Details of Share Distribution

The initiative to distribute the FireFly Shares comes after Gold Hunter received 30,290,624 FireFly Shares, valued at approximately CAD$15,000,000, in exchange for all of the Company's mineral claims in Newfoundland & Labrador. Gold Hunter plans to retain 5,197,738 FireFly Shares to cover anticipated tax liabilities and other costs, with the remaining FireFly Shares set to be distributed to Shareholders as at the Record Date, subject to the Company obtaining the Court Approval. As such, if the Company obtains the Court Approval, the Company anticipates that Shareholders as of the Record Date will receive a pro-rata share of 25,092,886 FireFly Shares proportionate to their current shareholding in Gold Hunter, or a cash payment in lieu of the FireFly Shares in accordance with the terms of the Arrangement.

CEO's Perspective

Sean Kingsley, Chief Executive Officer and President of Gold Hunter, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with FireFly Metals and their endeavours in Newfoundland's Baie Verte Peninsula. "The transformation of this area into a primary district for copper and gold VMS styled deposits is a testament to the unique potential it holds. We are particularly impressed by FireFly's capability of attracting some of the largest global financiers to secure over AUS$100M in funding within two overnight financings within a handful of months since acquiring the Green Bay Project, underscoring the broad enthusiasm for their asset. I believe FireFly's developments and future represents a significant win with a very bright future for all involved parties, including local prospectors & geologists, communities, stakeholders and investors of both Gold Hunter and FireFly. The future is very bright with FireFly at the helm in the Baie Verte VMS district."

Story continues

FireFly Metals Company Profile

FireFly Metals Ltd. (formerly AuTECO Minerals Ltd) (ASX: FFM) is an emerging copper-gold company focused on advancing the high-grade Green Bay Copper-Gold project in Newfoundland, Canada. The Green Bay Copper-Gold Project currently hosts a mineral resource prepared in accordance with Canadian NI 43-101 of 39.2Mt at 2.1% for 811,000t CuEq. FireFly has a clear strategy that they believe will rapidly grow the copper-gold resource to demonstrate a globally significant copper-gold asset. FireFly has commenced a 40,000m diamond drilling program.

FireFly holds a 70% interest in the high-grade Pickle Crow Gold Project in Ontario. The current

Inferred Resource stands at 11.9Mt at 7.2g/t for 2.8Moz gold, with exceptional discovery potential on the 500km2 tenement holding. FireFly also holds a 90% interest in the Limestone Well Vanadium-Titanium Project in Western Australia.

For further information regarding FireFly Metals Ltd please visit the ASX platform (ASX: FFM) or FireFly's website www.fireflymetals.com.au.

About Gold Hunter Resources Inc.

Gold Hunter Resources is a mineral exploration company committed to the evaluation and development of mineral-rich regions. Our seasoned team is focused in identifying areas known for their abundant mineral resources to develop. We're dedicated to unveiling the full potential of mineral projects in a manner that prioritizes responsibility and sustainability.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

GOLD HUNTER RESOURCES INC.

"Sean A. Kingsley"

President, CEO, and Director

Contact Information

Email: info@goldhunterresources.com

Direct Phone: +1 604-440-8474

www.goldhunterresources.com

Neither 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.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains forward-looking statements as defined under Canadian law, which are not historical facts but are based on expectations, estimates, and projections about future events. These statements may include predictions about the approval and timing of transactions and distributions, the Company's ability to obtain the Court Approval and complete the Distribution as planned, regulatory approvals, and the company's future performance. While these statements reflect our current expectations and are based on assumptions we believe to be reasonable, they involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Factors that might affect the company's future include changes in market conditions, laws, and economic factors such as labor shortages, inflation, and international conflicts. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and we caution readers not to place undue reliance on them. We are not obligated to update these statements unless required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/205238
Satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) can venture hundreds of miles off their expected trajectories when bad space weather hits. The problem affects the International Space Station, China's Tiangong space station and many Earth-observing satellites that need a close view of our planet.

Experts say this positioning uncertainty increases the risk of dangerous orbital collisions, which threaten to worsen the space debris problem and make the space around Earth unsafe.

"At altitudes of 500 kilometers [310 miles], we can determine the position of our satellites with the accuracy of 2 centimeters [0.8 inches]," Alex Saltman, CEO of California-based satellite company GeoOptics, which makes meteorological measurements of Earth's upper atmosphere, told Space.com. "But at lower altitudes, it becomes a big problem."

Related: Space weather: What is it and how is it predicted?

The lower the orbit, the bigger the inaccuracy. That's because space weather affects the density of Earth's upper atmosphere. As atmospheric density naturally decreases with altitude, the variations caused by space weather are bigger closer to Earth . The higher the density, the more drag satellites face, which slows them down and makes them sink toward Earth. At the lowest altitudes, satellites can be hundreds of miles off their predicted paths when too much solar wind blows from the sun, David Vallado, a senior research astrodynamycist at the Commercial Space Operations Center (COMSPOC), told Space.com.

Altitudes of around 250 miles (400 km) and lower are the worst hit. It's exactly in these orbital regions that some of the most valuable spacecraft fly. The International Space Station circles 250 miles above Earth, and Tiangong resides only slightly higher, at 260 miles (425 km). Researchers are increasingly eyeing these very low Earth orbits because they provide a detailed view of Earth, and plans are underway for new missions to operate in this space.

"The lower you get into the atmosphere, the better you can do on certain kinds of measurements," said Saltman. "For example, radar measurements get much, much better the lower you can get."

When satellites run out of the fuel that helps them maintain their altitude, they begin to spiral downward. On their way, they pass through this region of higher uncertainty, posing a threat to operational spacecraft. Trajectories of satellites and pieces of space debris are determined many days in advance, using measurements by ground-based radars and optical sensors. But a strong burst of solar wind from the sun can throw these predictions completely off. This creates challenges for spacecraft operators as they struggle to ascertain how close their spacecraft might get to other objects.

"It's an ultimate thing to answer, because the operator must decide whether they are going to perform a collision avoidance maneuver or not," Dan Oltrogge, chief scientist at COMSPOC told Space.com. "If they decide to maneuver and space weather changes, that changes the drag profiles and where and how close things come together. It may negate the maneuver and actually increase the risk."

Satellite operators plan collision avoidance maneuvers several days and many orbits in advance. But space weather forecasters have a very limited understanding of what the sun will do next. Coronal mass ejection s (CME)  massive bursts of superheated plasma from the sun's upper atmosphere  explode from sunspots without warning and take two or three days to arrive at Earth. Moreover, scientists can generally only measure a CME's strength about 30 minutes before it hits the planet, when it passes the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO), a spacecraft jointly operated by the European Space Agency and NASA some 900,000 miles (1.5 million kilometers) from Earth.

"If you have a warning that's out an hour in advance, that's probably not sufficient to get the command and control to get the maneuver planned," said Vallado.

Related: Wild solar weather is causing satellites to plummet from orbit. It's only going to get worse.

RELATED STORIES:

 Kessler Syndrome and the space debris problem

 Better space weather forecast could have saved SpaceX Starlink satellites from solar storm

 Planned NASA mission to the 'ignorosphere' could improve space weather forecasts

And it's not just the sun's day-to-day behavior that is not well understood, Vallado added. The number of sunspots, solar flares and CMEs that arise from the star varies on longer time scales following a roughly 11-year cycle that swings from a minimum through a maximum to the next minimum. The problem is that each solar cycle has a different strength, and therefore spacecraft operators can't plan ahead, as they can't predict how bad space weather will be during their next mission. A more active cycle means spacecraft will face more drag, and as a result run out of fuel faster and deorbit sooner. The differences might be substantial.

"Generally, we plan on a five-year lifetime for the satellites," Saltman said. "But it does vary. It's unlikely to be less than three years, but with the variations [in solar activity] it could be up to 10 or 12 years."

Saltman added that GeoOptics has lost one operational satellite due to space weather. Drag was not the culprit in that case; increased radiation levels caused by the solar wind damaged the satellite's electronics.

"It's hard to know whether the sunspot cycle was responsible, but we've never seen any problems like this before," Saltman said.

Scientists expect that the current solar cycle , the 25th since records began, will reach its maximum at the end of this year. Since the last maximum in 2014, the number of satellites in orbit has increased sevenfold. Space around Earth is now busier than ever, and dozens of new space companies that have joined the fray since the last time space weather was really vicious will have to learn to live with it. Space weather scientists and experts in satellite trajectory predictions are working hard to help them. But things might get a little tricky in the next couple of years.
Jasper Kenzo Sundeen's reporting for the Yakima Herald-Republic is possible with support from Report for America and community members through the Yakima Valley Community Fund. For information on republishing, email news@yakimaherald.com.
Alex May, pictured in this file photo from 2019, asked the courts to remove a racist covenant that was filed when his home was first developed and sold in the 1950s. The Washington Supreme Court rejected his request. (TYLER TJOMSLAND/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW)
Whiptail development receives government approval; production targeted to begin in 2027

Sixth Stabroek Block development will add gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day

On track to deliver gross production capacity on the block of approximately 1.3 million barrels of oil per day by end of 2027

NEW YORK, April 12, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) today announced it has made a final investment decision to proceed with Whiptail, the sixth development on the Stabroek Block, after receiving government and regulatory approvals. Whiptail is expected to add gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day by the end of 2027.

The $12.7 billion Whiptail development will target an estimated resource base of more than 850 million barrels of oil and include up to 10 drill centers and 48 production and injection wells. The floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel for Whiptail, which will be called Jaguar, is under construction.

"We are excited to sanction Whiptail, our sixth oil development on the Stabroek Block, and remain on track to have six FPSOs online by the end of 2027 with a total gross production capacity of approximately 1.3 million barrels of oil per day," CEO John Hess said. "We are proud to work with the Government of Guyana to realize the remarkable potential of this world class resource for the benefit of all stakeholders. The world will need these vital oil resources to meet future energy demand and help ensure an affordable, just and secure energy transition."

Three developments on the Stabroek Block -- Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2 and Payara -- are currently producing more than 640,000 gross barrels of oil per day. The fourth and fifth developments, Yellowtail and Uaru, are in progress with production startup targeted for 2025 and 2026 respectively. Each will have a gross production capacity of approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres. ExxonMobil Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest.

Hess Corporation is a leading global independent energy company engaged in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. More information on Hess Corporation is available at www.hess.com.

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "guidance," "could," "may," "should," "would," "believe," "intend," "project," "plan," "predict," "will," "target" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which are not historical in nature. Our forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, the expected number, timing and completion of our development projects and estimates of capital and operating costs for these projects; estimates of our crude oil and natural gas resources and levels of production; and our future financial and operational results. Forward-looking statements are based on our current understanding, assessments, estimates and projections of relevant factors and reasonable assumptions about the future. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our current projections or expectations of future results expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The following important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements: fluctuations in market prices or demand for crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas, including due to competing or alternative energy products and political conditions and events; potential failures or delays in increasing oil and gas reserves, including as a result of unsuccessful exploration activity, drilling risks and unforeseen reservoir conditions, and in achieving expected production levels; changes in laws, regulations and governmental actions applicable to our business, including legislative and regulatory initiatives regarding environmental concerns; the ability of our contractual counterparties to satisfy their obligations to us, including the operation of joint ventures which we may not control; unexpected changes in technical requirements for constructing, modifying or operating exploration and production facilities and/or the inability to timely obtain or maintain necessary permits; potential disruption or interruption of our operations due to catastrophic and other events, including climate change; risks and uncertainties associated with our proposed merger with Chevron Corporation; and other factors described in Item 1ARisk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and any additional risks described in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As and when made, we believe that our forward-looking statements are reasonable. However, given these risks and uncertainties, caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements since such statements speak only as of the date when made and there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will occur and actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement we make. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

Story continues

We use certain terms in this release relating to resources other than proved reserves, such as unproved reserves or resources. Investors are urged to consider closely the oil and gas disclosures in Hess Corporations Form 10-K, File No. 1-1204, available from Hess Corporation, 1185 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10036 c/o Corporate Secretary and on our website at www.hess.com. You can also obtain this form from the SEC on the EDGAR system.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240411200646/en/

Contacts

Investors:

Jay Wilson

(212) 536-8940

jrwilson@hess.com

Media:

Lorrie Hecker

(212) 536-8250

lhecker@hess.com
We can readily understand why investors are attracted to unprofitable companies. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. But while the successes are well known, investors should not ignore the very many unprofitable companies that simply burn through all their cash and collapse.

So, the natural question for Impact Minerals (ASX:IPT) shareholders is whether they should be concerned by its rate of cash burn. In this article, we define cash burn as its annual (negative) free cash flow, which is the amount of money a company spends each year to fund its growth. We'll start by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves in order to calculate its cash runway.

Check out our latest analysis for Impact Minerals

When Might Impact Minerals Run Out Of Money?

You can calculate a company's cash runway by dividing the amount of cash it has by the rate at which it is spending that cash. When Impact Minerals last reported its December 2023 balance sheet in March 2024, it had zero debt and cash worth AU$2.1m. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$4.0m over the trailing twelve months. Therefore, from December 2023 it had roughly 6 months of cash runway. That's quite a short cash runway, indicating the company must either reduce its annual cash burn or replenish its cash. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below.

How Is Impact Minerals' Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

In our view, Impact Minerals doesn't yet produce significant amounts of operating revenue, since it reported just AU$76k in the last twelve months. As a result, we think it's a bit early to focus on the revenue growth, so we'll limit ourselves to looking at how the cash burn is changing over time. It's possible that the 4.6% reduction in cash burn over the last year is evidence of management tightening their belts as cash reserves deplete. Impact Minerals makes us a little nervous due to its lack of substantial operating revenue. So we'd generally prefer stocks from this list of stocks that have analysts forecasting growth.

How Hard Would It Be For Impact Minerals To Raise More Cash For Growth?

While Impact Minerals is showing a solid reduction in its cash burn, it's still worth considering how easily it could raise more cash, even just to fuel faster growth. Generally speaking, a listed business can raise new cash through issuing shares or taking on debt. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. By comparing a company's annual cash burn to its total market capitalisation, we can estimate roughly how many shares it would have to issue in order to run the company for another year (at the same burn rate).

Impact Minerals' cash burn of AU$4.0m is about 8.6% of its AU$46m market capitalisation. That's a low proportion, so we figure the company would be able to raise more cash to fund growth, with a little dilution, or even to simply borrow some money.

How Risky Is Impact Minerals' Cash Burn Situation?

Even though its cash runway makes us a little nervous, we are compelled to mention that we thought Impact Minerals' cash burn relative to its market cap was relatively promising. Looking at the factors mentioned in this short report, we do think that its cash burn is a bit risky, and it does make us slightly nervous about the stock. Taking a deeper dive, we've spotted 6 warning signs for Impact Minerals you should be aware of, and 3 of them are significant.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts)

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Conflict and climate may be here to stay

At the beginning of the new millennium, if economists had warned that conflict and climate would make matters difficult for global trade, it would have raised quite a few eyebrows. At that time, international trade had emerged as a poster boy of global growth, transforming the fortunes of not only developed nations but also emerging ones like China and India. Yet, events since early 2022 suggest it wont be right to assume that goods can move as freely across the world as they used to. The Russia-Ukraine conflict jolted the trade in graincritical to developing nationsand sanctions on Russia changed the dynamics of energy trade.32 And now, an armed group from a nearly forgotten conflict has brought a dynamic trade route to its knees.

Will conflict then continue to weigh on maritime trade? The answer lies in the global response to the problem. Nearly a decade back, pirates off the coast of Somalia were a nuisance to merchant vessels. Yet, the world reacted unitedly as naval powers coordinated to protect vessels and shipping companies employed armed guards.33 Piracy has dropped sharply since then. Armed guards, however, are not enough to fend off missiles and armed drones. Worse, unlike a decade back, global coordination is missing as Russia and the West face off over the conflict in Ukraine, while geopolitical tensions in the Middle East rise. No wonder then that efforts to protect merchant vessels traversing the Suez Canal havent had much success so far.

Climate change and environmental impact have increased the challenges facing maritime trade. For the Panama Canal, worries about changing climate patterns arent new.34 In 2019 too, the Panama Canal Authority had to deal with severe dry weather. Finding a long-term solution is, however, difficult as the artificial freshwater bodies feeding the canal are also major sources of water for key cities in the country. Researchers have also hinted that dry weather and erratic climatic conditions in the region are linked to rapid deforestation in the Amazon.35 And with these climate events intensifying, there are doubts whether the canal will be as big a facilitator of international trade as it used to be.

Delays and longer shipping routes are already having a detrimental impact on the environment due to the greater use of fuel. To reduce travel times, ships often increase their speed, thereby leading to even higher fuel use. On the other hand, damaged ships leave their own trail of environmental destruction. The MV Rubymar has left a long oil slick and there are fears that its large cargo of fertilizer will cause immense harm to marine life in the area.36
Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) is known as the world's top seller of artificial intelligence (AI) chips because its product has been unbeatable so far. The company makes the most powerful chip out there today, helping companies power the tasks of training and inferencing for their AI models. This has helped Nvidia's earnings soar in the triple digits last year -- and its share price followed, with an increase of more than 200% over the past year.

Meanwhile, rival Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) hasn't fared as well. Lower personal computer demand in recent times has weighed on revenue. On top of this, Intel fell behind in the artificial intelligence (AI) chip race. All of this has left its shares trading at half their 2020 level.

The tide may be about to turn, though, as Intel ramps up its AI portfolio. Just this week, the company announced its new AI chip Gaudi 3. Can this new product send Intel soaring past Nvidia?

Image source: Getty Images.

Gaudi 3's performance

Let's start with some details about this new Intel chip. The company says Gaudi 3 offers 4x more AI compute and a 1.5x increase in memory bandwidth, compared to its predecessor.

Importantly, Intel's new chip may challenge Nvidia's top-performing graphics processing unit (GPU), the H100. The Gaudi 3 may deliver a 50% faster training time than the H100 when used on certain large language models (LLMs) -- for example, Llama 2.

Its inference throughput could outperform the H100 by an average of 50%, and the product is more power-efficient than Nvidia's, too. Intel didn't offer a price range for the Gaudi 3 but said it delivers superior performance to the H100 "at a fraction of the cost." The company plans to make Gaudi 3 available to companies that build platforms with these chips in the second quarter.

Does this mean Intel could be on the way to unseating Nvidia? Not necessarily.

It's important to remember that the Gaudi 3 performance levels are "on average" and using certain LLMs at specific parameters. And Nvidia isn't sitting still when it comes to product innovation. The company recently announced its new Blackwell architecture, and its most powerful chips ever, the B100, are set for release later this year.

Even if Intel's Gaudi 3 outperforms the H100, it's very likely Nvidia will surge into the lead from a performance perspective when it releases the Blackwell platform. I don't see Gaudi 3 as a threat to demand for Nvidia's products or the company's long-term earnings prospects.

An important catalyst for Intel

I do see the product as an important catalyst for Intel's earnings and share-price performance. Demand for AI chips is high and likely to keep on growing -- with the AI market forecast to reach more than $1 trillion by the end of the decade. It's unlikely that just one company will serve all of this demand.

Story continues

Here's another point to keep in mind: Cost is a significant factor that comes into play for many companies as they launch AI programs, and some of them don't necessarily need the world's most powerful chip. This leaves plenty of room for a high-quality product offering great performance at a reasonable price to carve out a spot in the market.

Intel probably won't soar past Nvidia to become the world's biggest AI chipmaker, but the Gaudi 3 could offer the company a much-needed boost to earnings. As more and more companies -- with a wide range of budgets and needs -- launch AI programs, opportunities will multiply for Intel and other companies producing high-performance chips. Intel's focus on performance at a lower cost could help it carve out a niche.

An Intel survey of 430 tech professionals showed that only about 10% of their organizations had sent generative AI models to production last year. This reinforces the idea that we're in the early days of the AI boom.

As for share performance, if Gaudi 3 and Intel's other new AI products take off, Intel stock could beat Nvidia when it comes to percentage gains. After declining 45% over the past three years, Intel is ripe for recovery. Trading for 27x forward earnings estimates means the stock is reasonably priced.

While the Gaudi 3 launch isn't bad news for Nvidia, it's definitely great news for Intel and its shareholders.

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Certainly, after the 24th of February 2022, all this work took on a new sense of urgency. More aware of the risks and threats, many Member States have gone to great lengths to address years of underinvestment in their military capacities. And I am proud to say that the EU has taken a leading role in coordinating efforts, including by increasing our cooperation with NATO.

With a war at our border, fixing the missing links and bottlenecks in our European infrastructure that could jeopardize the movement of military forces became a priority. In November 2022, we tabled an updated EU Action Plan on Military Mobility, putting this at the top of the Commissions agenda.

Since then, we have made great strides to improve military mobility in Europe, and this is just the beginning.

We are currently in the process, together with the EEAS and the EU Military Staff, and in close cooperation with NATO, of identifying the main corridors for short-notice and large-scale movements of military personnel and material. This will allow us to identify gaps, and to focus investments accordingly.

We have also fast-tracked our military mobility budget, having now awarded the entire budget of 1.7 billion euro to 95 dual-use projects, from West to East, and from North to South, covering all modes of transport.

We are also thinking long term. One of the novelties now that we have updated our Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) Regulation, is an obligation for Member States to consider military mobility needs whenever constructing or upgrading infrastructure on the TEN-T. This is a first step towards an EU-wide dual-use transport network!

The revised Regulation also extends TEN-T transport corridors into neighbouring countries for the first time. They now reach Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans. This not only reflects our tighter ties with these countries, but our military interests as well.

How would you explain to a European citizen, in a few words, what a dual European transport network is and why it is important?

Currently, the European transport network is primarily geared towards civilian needs. It has not been built with the intention to allow for short-notice and large-scale movements of military personnel and materiel  nor to account for aspects like the capacity to transport and store dangerous goods, requirements for military logistic hubs, and fuel supply-chain needs in case Europe needs to defend itself from aggression. These are considerations that have taken on a renewed sense of urgency following the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, which has once again brought conflict to our continent.

And yet, Europe does not have a parallel military transport network. The TEN-T, which is Europes civilian transport network, coincides to a very large extent (about 97 percent) with the military network.

What we want to ensure now is that whatever we do on the civilian transport side will also be to the benefit of Military Mobility. A dual-use transport network is one that is designed for or adapted to both civilian and military use. To give a concrete example: if we want a bridge to be able to carry very heavy loads, such as tanks and military material, the design needs to be different to that for a bridge for cars and lorries.

Similar considerations apply to road and rail tunnels, which have to respect a certain axle load, but also width and height requirements, to allow the passage of military convoys.

Every euro spent should be justified not only as a stand-alone opportunity for military or for civilian transport infrastructure, but to benefit both at the same time.

How far away is the EU from this goal at the moment and why?

EU has one of the best transport networks in the world! But we must not forget that large parts of the network were developed in different times, to serve national rather than European needs. To give but one example: in an era of rampant inter-state conflict and widespread distrust, national railroads were often deliberately designed to be non-interoperable with those of neighbouring states, to slow down enemy troops if war broke out.

That explains the different track gauges used by Western and Eastern European countries. Harmonising these national or regional networks takes time and is very costly. That is why our TEN-T policy focuses on standardising the core transport arteries first, with a deadline in 2030. Only then will we gradually extend this standardisation to the extended core (completion due 2040) and comprehensive (2050) transport networks.

"Our work is far from over and, unfortunately, resources are limited, so we have to use them wisely, where we find the best added value" - you said on this topic (31 January 2024, symposium on military mobility). So what is the European Commission's estimate of the total sums needed to bring the dual transport network up to the desired standards, and what are the realistic timescales for achieving this goal?

We are working closely with the EEAS, the EU Military Staff and NATO to identify the options for short-notice, large-scale movements, looking at fuel resilience, long-term infrastructure planning and optimal use of our transport infrastructure. This is ongoing work, subject to continuous improvement. The intention is to identify priority military corridors, and to invest in reinforcing the corresponding transport network where necessary.

As to investment needs, precisely because the network is dual-use, it is difficult to disentangle with precision the amounts that are necessary for either military or civil use. But the 470% oversubscription rate for co-funding in the last call for EU military mobility projects under the Connecting Europe Facility testifies to the important investment needs, and to the keen interest of Member States to shore up remaining infrastructure gaps to support efficient military movements on our main European transport corridors.

What I can say is that the investment needs associated with overall completion of the TEN-T core network by 2030 are estimated at around EUR 515 bn. In addition, the investments needed to implement the new TEN-T requirements for the core network and to complete the extended core network are estimated at approximately EUR 330 bn between now and 2040. This would bring the total investment needed to complete the core and extended core TEN-T to EUR 845 bn over the next 15 years, which equates to about 0.6% of EU GDP annually.

What does "added value" mean in this context? What is the overriding interest when dual carriage projects are evaluated? What happens, for example, if a transport infrastructure segment has no "added value" in terms of civilian transport, but scores on a military mobility map?

Let me first clarify the context in which I said this. I was referring to the evaluation of projects proposed for EU co-funding under the Military Mobility envelope of the Connecting Europe Facility (our main transport infrastructure funding instrument at EU level), which as I indicated previously was highly over-subscribed.

With these calls, we co-fund dual use transport infrastructure projects that increase synergies between our defence needs and the general TEN-T objectives. In other words, the "added value" is measured both from the civil and military perspective. We do not co-fund "military only" projects.

All projects proposed for funding are assessed by an independent panel comprising both civil and military evaluators. The latter are basically representatives of the EU Military Staff (EUMS). Their assessment of projects is essentially based on the following two questions: i) to what extent would the proposed project help improve the strategic deployment of military forces in the EU for missions, operations and routine activities? And ii) to what extent would the project eliminate the gaps identified on the Member State's infrastructure network, including bottlenecks currently undermining military movements.

The civil assessment of projects focuses on the general TEN-T objectives (to what extent does the project facilitate transport across Europe and reduce regional, economic and social disparities by developing interconnected infrastructure for air, road, rail and shipping?), the European Green Deal objectives (reduction in greenhouse gas emissions) and the projects contribution to the objectives of Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy  our long-term transport strategy. The evaluators then score the projects based on these considerations, and a final selection is made that also takes geographical balance into account.

Which countries and regions are vulnerable in this respect and why? How do Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania fare in this respect?

What I can say is that our military mobility policy focuses on the development of an EU-wide network that allows for the reinforcement and sustainment of military convoys across the EU, from North to South, from West to East. It is clear that our biggest threat today is on the Eastern flank, but this does not mean we should not invest in our defence capabilities and in logistics support in the West, North and South as well.

An analysis by the US think tank CEPA looked at five military mobility scenarios: the Nordic-Baltic route (Norway-Sweden-Estonia), the Suwaki corridor (Poland), the Western Balkans, Libya and the Falklands Corridor/Gateway. What is the European Commission's assessment of each of these infrastructure objectives (with the exception of Libya) and to what extent do the ECA scenarios coincide with the EU executive's own assessments?

The Commission is not tasked with performing military vulnerability assessments of Member States. We work closely together with the EEAS, EU military staff (EUMS) and NATO to identify the core military mobility corridors and the transport infrastructure gaps that require attention as a priority along these corridors.

Among other things, the European Commission recently announced that it is supporting military mobility projects worth a total of 807 million. 18 Member States are beneficiaries, and Romania has only one such project approved, a feasibility study for a bridge across the Danube (connection with Bulgaria). Why only this?

The EUs financial programming for 2021-2027 earmarked EUR 1.7 billion to co-fund dual-use (civilian-defence) transport infrastructure through CEF to support military mobility across the EU.

Following three Military Mobility calls (2021, 2022, 2023), 95 projects were selected, and are underway in 21 Member States. I am happy to say that the projects cover all transport modes. And it is equally important that some of the projects will improve infrastructure along the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes, the corridors central to Ukraine's imports and exports. This will also be important in the longer term: accession will require better transport connectivity and integration with the EU Member States.

The CEF Military Mobility envelope for 2021-2027 has now been exhausted.

The 2023 call was the most competitive of the three with 112 project proposals received, requesting funding almost five times the available budget. This is a direct result of Russias war of aggression against Ukraine, which has highlighted the urgent need for more dual-use infrastructure projects and led to much higher competition for funding.

When it comes to Romania, after the three calls for proposals, four projects have been selected, and allocated EU funding of roughly 80 million, which is about 4.7% of the overall MilMob budget. This puts Romania in an honourable 10th place (out of 27 Member States) in terms of projects selected, and 9th in terms of EU co-funding.

These projects are hugely important for military mobility, for the connectivity of our Ukrainian and Moldovan neighbours to EU transport networks, and for Romanian-Bulgarian cross-border connectivity.

We are already working to increase the funding envelope for military mobility in the next programming period.

What is the overall quality of the transport projects and feasibility studies proposed by the countries of the Eastern Flank to Brussels (including dual)?

There is no simple answer to this question. Every eligible proposal is evaluated on its own merits against the work programme, based on the call text and the award criteria (priority & urgency, maturity, quality, impact, catalytic effect) and then ranked. As a result, only the highest quality and highest ranked proposals are retained for funding. Having said that, due to the number of proposals received, not all good projects can receive funding. We simply dont have sufficient budget.

Some 95 high-quality projects are now underway across the EU, in 21 Member States, including on the EUs Eastern Flank and in the vicinity of Ukraine and Russia (including in Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Sweden and Finland).

Although smaller (it has 76 percent of the surface area of Poland), Romania has four times fewer kilometres of motorway and almost seven times fewer kilometres of modernised railway. What do European Commission assessments of urgent infrastructure needs show? Where does the EC think Romania should focus its resources as a priority in the short and medium term?

The transport infrastructure funds made available to Romania under my mandate are unprecedented  12 billion in total. Most of the funds targeted the rail and road networks. There is good reason for this: the rail network needs modernising to bring it up to EU standards. The current priorities are two horizontal axes  from Constanta to the Hungarian border, via Bucharest and Craiova for freight transport, and via Bra?ov for passenger traffic. Rail connectivity with Bulgaria is another priority, and is being stepped on the Bucharest-Giurgiu line.

For roads, the priority is clearly to fill the connection gaps in the western part of the country, but also to better connect the Moldova region with the rest of the country with modern, high-quality motorways.

What factors do you think have brought Romania to its current situation? The more complicated terrain than in Hungary or Poland, for example, corruption, lack of political will, incompetence, other factors or all of them together?

Delays are often the result of insufficient project preparation; this inevitably leads to longer implementation times. The solution is to improve efficiency, quality and transparency  at the planning and preparation stages, and then during implementation.

The Commission, however, offers Technical Assistance to bolster Member States technical and administrative capacity. I have set-up a specific task force to support Romania and Bulgaria to increase their level of implementation on EU funding and we are in constant dialogue with their authorities to monitor an improve the current level of absorption. The very good results of Romania in the Military Mobility calls, but also in the CEF calls demonstrates that such cooperation has delivered good results.

At the moment, military equipment is transported to Europe mainly by rail. In Romania, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure is responsible for ensuring the viability of roads. How do you see this model of delegation of responsibility? Is it an optimal solution or is the improvement of dual carriage a large project that should bring several actors together, including the Ministry of Defence? Please explain.

Given the importance of ensuring that our key transport arteries are designed and built for dual-use, for me it would make sense for those at the transport ministry to consult their defence colleagues when planning and designing large transport infrastructure projects. Although if transport infrastructure standards were aligned with military requirements, such consultations would become redundant.

This would however require the transport and defence ministries to agree on the standards to be used. This is what we are also promoting when it comes to the TEN-T. Member States will have to consult with military forces when deciding to build or upgrade new transport infrastructure.

To give an example: if we had an agreement on a common height for train tunnels  a height that allows the passage of military loads  there would be no need for case-by-case consultation. That is the approach we are taking with the TEN-T, on the essential network: we agree on EU-wide standards, aligned with military requirements, to ensure that the entire TEN-T network is dual-use by design.

How would you describe the relationship, communication and prioritisation between policy makers, the European Commission and Defence (Military) officials in Central and Eastern European countries (NATO Eastern Flank)?

As I hope that Ive already made clear, we enjoy very good and constructive working relationships with our colleagues at the EEAS and EU Military Staff, as well as at NATO.

What are the chances of the project to link the port of Constanta to Gdansk, as envisaged in the framework of the Three Seas Initiative? What are the obstacles to this project?

The project to link the port of Constanta to Gdansk, which we often refer to as the Rail2Sea project, is a joint initiative between several Member States (Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Poland). The Commission is not one of the initiators. That does not mean that we do not welcome the initiative  on the contrary, in particular when it comes to certain sections along the Baltic SeaBlack SeaAegean Sea Corridor.

The corridor is due for completion by 2030, but I cannot give you more details of the Rail2Sea project as a whole, as I said, this is a project lead by member states.

How should/could the Danube be exploited to (perhaps) compensate for the lack of other types of infrastructure in countries like Romania?

The Danube is an extremely important inland waterways, critical for this transport system of not only Romania, but for the whole region. And indeed, inland waterways transportation is cheaper and more sustainable that other modes.

Danube has proven to be of extreme use in the context of the Russian aggression to Ukraine. From May 2022 until February 2024, 68% of the agricultural goods exported by Ukraine left the country via the Danube and passed through the port of Constanta. The Danube has not only been the lifeline for Ukrainian exports, but also for the import of essential goods.

The EU, together with Romania, has invested significantly in improving the quality of navigation management on the Danube, in particular through the Primus project, which is enabling night navigation on the Sulina Canal as well as other important project likes the "FastDanube" and "FairDanube" key to ensure the navigability all year round.

I was personally very involved in trying to put the parties together, to increase cooperation between Bulgaria and Romania because I would like to see Danube used at its potential. I am happy that the two countries managed, with our full support, to submit FastDanube 2 project for financing in the last CEF call.

In the longer term  to further improve navigation and adapt to the consequences of climate change  a comprehensive programme is needed to improve navigation conditions in critical areas. The objective is to allow navigation all year long, so that the Danube becomes a reliable link between the Black Sea and Central European countries.

How problematic, in your and the European Commission's assessment, is the difference in rail gauge between the Republic of Moldova (now part of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T)). and Europe?

The different gauges prevent the full integration of the Moldovan railway into the EU railway system. In the context of the accession process, it is important for Moldova to improve rail connectivity with the EU. This will benefit rail customers  passengers and freight alike  who will have greater access to neighbouring countries and the EU market for goods and services. Without this connectivity, the Moldovan network will remain isolated from that of the EU, which will put a brake on further integration. We already started to work on the issue, with a study to assess the opportunity for a European gauge line to link Ukraine with EU, Molodva with the EU and Moldova and Ukraine.

There is talk in Chisinau of a transition from wide to standard gauge in at least 10 years. How do you assess this timeframe, in the context of the war in Ukraine and concerns about a possible extension of the military conflict?

As I said, rail interoperability must be seen as an opportunity for Moldova to connect with the EU network in peace time. It is also a security asset for Moldova. That is why the process should begin without delay. It will take some time and will be expensive, but as we have seen with other countries that have connected to the EU rail network, the benefits will far outweigh the costs.

What do you think the countries of the Eastern flank should do in the coming years to strengthen democracy in the Republic of Moldova and its integration into the European Union?

Strengthening democracy in Moldova should be a priority for Moldovans as it will offer stabilisation and a bright future within the EU. This will also be reassuring for the countrys EU neighbours, and in fact the entire European Union.

Developing the rule of law and fighting corruption are probably the two priority reforms to facilitate the transition towards a stronger democratic regime and future EU membership. The neighbouring EU Member States should lead Moldova by example here.

"We need a military Schengen to ensure a faster and more efficient movement of military personnel and equipment. This will make Europe stronger. We have taken an important step: Poland, Germany and the Netherlands have signed a declaration for a military corridor", Kajsa Ollongren, the Dutch Minister of Defence, said at the end of January 2024. More and more voices in the EU are talking about a 'military Schengen area' - what does this concept mean from the European Commission's point of view?

Indeed, a high-quality transport network is only a part of the military mobility puzzle. Today, internal customs and administrative formalities often delay troop and military material movements. When transporting arms, explosives or even food for our troops, any such delays can cost lives, and this is unacceptable.

We certainly need to work more together to update and standardise the rules and procedures that apply to the movement of troops and military equipment inside the EU. And doing this based on priority geographical corridors can be a good starting point, so the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Poland, Germany and the Netherlands is certainly a good step in this regard.

How do you assess the damage caused to Romania by its refusal to be admitted to the Schengen area (separate from the compromise on air Schengen). I leave it up to you to interpret the term "damage", from material damage to the increase, perhaps, of extremist and anti-European currents.

The European Commission supported without reserves the full integration of Romania and Bulgaria in Schengen. All experts made the same recommendation, meaning that Romania is prepared for being a part of Schengen.

Austria blocks the process, and the decision is purely subjective and of political nature, it has nothing to do with the preparedness of Romania. Of course, there are "costs" for Austrias "whims", costs that are paid by Romania and EU as a whole  economic losses, bad air quality in the borders areas, hard working conditions for transport workers, and, as you well say, a sense of revolt towards the injustice that Austria is inflicting towards Romania and Bulgaria.

Romania must insist to ensure a positive decision, the European Commission will support, as always such a decision.

You said in Strasbourg that a Schengen area consisting only of Romania, Bulgaria and Greece, as proposed by some MEPs, would put "fabulous pressure" on the border between Romania and Hungary, and implied that such a solution would not be preferable, because it is, and I quote, "partial". On the other hand, the three countries could clearly benefit, including economically, from such a deal. How are things progressing in this respect?

Our objective is full application of the Schengen rules in Romania and Bulgaria. Protocol number 19 of the Schengen acquis underlines the need to preserve the integrity of these acquis.

Intensive work is underway to allow the Council to lift the border checks causing delays at land borders between Romania, Bulgaria and Greece. The Schengen Coordinator is engaging with the Member States in the region to step up regional cooperation, taking a whole-of-route approach to address security threats.

For the moment, land border checks are carried out in accordance with the Schengen Borders Code, which allows for a relaxation of border checks under exceptional or unforeseen circumstances, including when intense traffic leads to excessive waiting times.

Protests by European farmers continue, both in Brussels and elsewhere. At the Hodonin-Holic crossing between the Czech Republic and Slovakia, farmers from the two countries, supported by counterparts from Hungary and Poland, shouted, among other things, Down with Brussels bureaucracy. In response, you announced a few days later that the EU would step up controls on Ukrainian grain shipments. What does the European Commission take away from the criticism of it in the context of the grain crisis and what message do you have today for farmers who have been promised support from Brussels?

Protests by some farmers are severely disrupting traffic on the EUs road network, and notably on the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes, with Polish farmers having blocked all major border crossing points with Ukraine. This has negative impacts for EU and Ukrainian business and for the working conditions of the drivers forced to wait on both sides of the borders. This also has a negative effect on other border crossing points, in neighbouring Member States, who need to absorb higher numbers of trucks, with limited - if any - additional capacity, and spillover effects in terms of road congestion.

As Transport Commissioner, I cannot offer solutions to address farmers concerns. But I can say that the Commission is working with national governments and Ukraine to facilitate the smooth functioning of border crossing points, ensuring that Ukraine can import and export the good it needs. At the same time, while recognising peoples right to protest, lorries must be able to cross borders, and freely circulate within the European Union. This is enshrined in EU law. And Member States are the ones responsible for applying in their territories the law.

You say that the Bucharest-Budapest high-speed train line is still of great interest to the Hungarian government. What should we in Romania understand from this statement? Are any blockages, obstacles or slow pace caused by the government in Bucharest? Why?

Implementing a high-speed rail connection between Budapest and Bucharest is a shared objective: for Romania, Hungary and the European Commission.

In our revised TEN-T regulation we have put the objective of having all the EU capitals connected by high-speed rail until 2040. Of course, I hope the project will be finalised sooner. Later, it will be an obligation.
The number of vehicles with green license plates in Hungary reached a peak in March, the Ministry of Energy Affairs announced on its Facebook page.

The spectacular revival is related to the launch of the company e-car purchase support program at the beginning of February.



According to the announcement, the total stock equipped with the light green official number plates increased by 2,920 units in March, significantly exceeding the previous peak of 2,594 units registered in February this year.



Likewise, March's growth in purely electric vehicles was unprecedented, surpassing the monthly level of 2,000 for the first time. The 2,108 newly commissioned vehicles are a huge improvement even compared to the previous month's record of 1,704.



MTI Photo: Janos Marjai



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Marton Nagy, the national economy minister, has summoned representatives of the Hungarian Mineral Oil Association (MASZ) to warn them about high fuel prices on the domestic market.

At the meeting, the minister noted that fuel prices in Hungary were above the European Union average, with petrol costing 644 forints (EUR 1.65) a litre and diesel 658 forints, both 7-9 percentage points higher than the regional average.



Referring to an earlier agreement with the sector stipulating that Hungarian prices should be mid-field in the region, the minister said the government had a similar firm expectation this time round.



Nagy said the Central Statistical Office will soon launch a public monitoring system to observe regional differences, and this would serve as a point of reference to ensure conformity with the governments expectations.



Also commenting on fuel prices, Mihaly Varga, the finance minister, told a government press briefing: Instead of discussing taxes, production costs must be reduced in order to further reduce prices.



He also said that efforts were being made to help growth from the side of energy costs.



MTI Photo: Zoltan Balogh



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York Sertoma Club

YORK  The York Morning Sertoma Club will meet on Monday, April 15 at 7 a.m. at Wendys.

Waco CBO

WACO  The Waco CBO will meet on Monday, April 15 at 7 p.m. at the Waco Community Building.

Gresham Fire Dept.

GRESHAM  The Gresham Fire Department will meet on Monday, April 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the fire station.

York Chamber Board

YORK  The York Chamber Board will meet at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 at the Chamber Office.

York Noon Sertoma Club

YORK  The York Noon Sertoma Club will meet at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 at Chances R.

York Rotary Club

YORK  The York Rotary Club will meet at 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at Chances R.

York Sertoma Club

YORK  The York Morning Sertoma Club will meet at 7 a.m. on Monday, April 22 at Wendys.

York Sertoma Club

YORK  The York Noon Sertoma Club will meet at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24 at Chances R.

York Rotary Club

YORK  The York Rotary Club will meet at 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 25 at Chances R.

Community Leadership Book Club

YORK  The Community Leadership Book Club will meet at Kilgore Memorial Library on Friday, April 26 from 12-1 p.m.

Waco CBO

WACO  The Village of Waco and the Waco CBO will be sponsoring a clean-up day for residents of Waco on Saturday, April 27 from 8 a.m. until noon. A roll-off dumpster will be provided for the day and will be placed out by the brush pile (This service will be for Waco residents only). Any persons wanting to get rid of items for their yards or garage are welcome to use it. Items not accepted: tires, oil, hazardous waste and wet paint (paint can be taken if the paint in the can is dried). Please contact the Village Office at 402.728.5223 for any questions you may have.

Geneva Public Library Board of Trustees

GENEVA  The Geneva Public Library Board of Trustees will meet at 7 p.m. in the Geneva Public Library Board Room on Tuesday, April 30.
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has announced that the 2024 Hyundai Creta has crossed the milestone of 1 lakh bookings within a mere three months since its launch. The 2024 Creta, made its debut on January 16 with a starting price of Rs 10.99 lakh, reaching up to Rs 20.15 lakh for the top model. Notably, certain variants have witnessed recent price revisions, with petrol variants seeing a Rs 3,500 hike and diesel variants escalating by Rs 10,500.

Sunroof Variants

A standout feature driving the Creta's popularity is its array of sunroof-equipped models, which have garnered a whopping 71% share of total bookings. This statistic reflects a growing trend among Indian consumers who value the openness and premium experience offered by sunroof-equipped vehicles.

Another significant trend is the strong demand for connected car variants, constituting 52% of all bookings. This surge highlights the evolving preferences of Indian customers who prioritize advanced technology and seamless connectivity in their vehicles.

Tarun Garg, Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India, expressed his delight at the overwhelming response to the new Creta. He noted, "The recently launched new Hyundai Creta has received an excellent response. Within just 3 months of its launch in January 2024, it has received more than 1 lakh bookings. The thing to note is that out of the total bookings, 71% bookings are for sunroof models and 52% bookings are for connected car variants. This reflects the changing needs of Indian customers."

The Creta boasts a Level 2 ADAS safety system for enhanced protection. The introduction of a new 1.5-litre turbo GDI engine adds a dynamic performance dimension, complementing its existing diesel and other engine options.
New Delhi: Many large companies that have received GST demand notices have decided to file an appeal with the Appellate Authority.

In recent days, an increasing number of GST notices have been sent to many companies mainly on account of alleged discrepancy in input tax credit (ITC).

ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited said it received an order from the Additional Commissioner, Customs & Central Tax, Hyderabad GST Commissionerate, raising a GST demand of Rs 14,786,059 and levying penalty of Rs 1,478,606.

The company would pursue an appeal with the Appellate Authorities and evaluate other legal options against the order," ICICI Lombard said.

The order has imposed the demand on the grounds of computation of input tax credit eligible to the company and alleged undischarged tax liability due to differences between the returns filed by the company.

Vodafone Idea said it received an order under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, confirming a penalty of Rs 14,82,096 along with tax demand and interest as applicable. The order has been issued for the alleged availment and utilisation of excess ITC for FY 2018-19.

The company does not agree with the order and will take appropriate action for rectification or reversal of the same," Vodafone Idea said.

Bombay Dyeing said it received an order from the Excise and Taxation Officer, Gurugram, for a demand of Rs 95,68,375.

The order was issued for mismatch in input tax credit claimed as per the books and as per the GST portal, short payment of tax in GSTR-3B, and short payment of tax under RCM as compared to GSTR2A and GSTR-3B, Bombay Dyeing said.

We will file an appeal before Appellate Authority as the ITC claimed as per the books are in accordance with the law. There is no material impact on the financial operations of the company," Bombay Dyeing said.

HDFC Life Insurance said the company received a GST order from the Deputy Commissioner State Tax, Dehradun, in the matter of erstwhile Exide Life Insurance Company Limited on April 10.

This order will have no adverse material impact on the financial operations of the company and the same shall be further contested by the company by way of an appeal before the Appellate Authority," HDFC Life said.

Rallis India, a Tata enterprise, said the company received four orders from the Joint Commissioner of Sales Tax (Appeals), Nagpur division, dismissing the appeals filed before it for classification of business activities, and dues aggregating to Rs 5.01 crore, including interest and penalty, under the Bombay Sales Tax Act and Central Sales Tax Act for the financial years 1999-2000 and 2000-2001.

Based on the merits of the matter, prevailing law, and the advice of the counsel, the company is planning to appeal against these orders before the Appellant Authority expecting favourable orders from the authorities," Rallis India said.
On April 10, around 15:20, it was discovered that two individuals from the direction of Nerkin Khnzoresk village of Armenia, opposite the positions of the frontier troops of the the State Border Service located in the Jijimli settlement, violated the state border, crossing approximately 300 meters into Azerbaijani territory, with about 200 heads of small livestock, Azernews reports, citing the Press Center of the State Border Service.

Shots were fired from the combat post of the Armenian Armed Forces towards our border patrol, which prevented the violation of the state border, resulting in the injury of First Lieutenant Rovshan Mammadov.

The military serviceman was evaculated to a medical facility without delay.

Currently, the operational situation remains stable and under the control of Azerbaijani units.

The full responsibility for this latest provocation by the Armenian side squarely falls on the military-political leadership of Armenia.
CUET PG 2024: The National Testing Agency (NTA) released the final answer key for the Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate (CUET PG) 2024 today, April 12. The CUET PG answer key link for 2024 is available on the official website, pgcuet.samarth.ac.in.A total of 4,62,603 unique candidates enrolled for the CUET PG test 2024, which was held from March 11 to 28 for admission to postgraduate degree programmes offered by participating universities. CUET PG 2024 received participation from 198 universities, including 38 central, 38 state, nine government institutions, and 105 private and deemed universities.

A total of 92 questions have been removed from the CUET PG exams given this year. According to the marking scheme, participants would receive full marks for each question eliminated by the exam authorities, whether or not they attempted it.

CUET PG 2024: Steps to download here

Step 1: Visit the official website, pgcuet.samarth.ac.in.

Step 2: Find and click the link titled "Display of final answer keys for CUET PG 2024".

Step 3: A PDF document will appear on your screen.

Step 4: Go over the answers for the subjects in which you appeared.

Step 5: Download the CUET PG answer key PDF for future reference.

The tentative answer key for CUET PG 2024 was released on April 5, and candidates had until April 7 to file complaints. The final answer key was created after examining the difficulties provided by candidates with the help of subject matter experts.
New Delhi: A political storm has been ignited in West Bengal following the arrests of two suspects, Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Mateen Taha, in the Bengaluru cafe blast case. Both hail from Kanthi in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal and were apprehended by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday. The controversy was sparked by Amit Malviya, the BJPs IT Cell chief and the partys central observer for West Bengal. Malviya claimed that the arrests highlight how West Bengal is becoming a sanctuary for terrorists.

In a post on X, Malviya said, NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cells in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists."

However, the West Bengal Police swiftly countered Malviyas claims in an official statement after his post went viral. The statement read, Contrary to the claims made by Amit Malviya, the fact is that two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the central intelligence agencies. The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities.

Echoing Malviya, Dr Sukanta Majumdar, BJPs state president in West Bengal, argued that it is natural for terrorists to consider the state as a safe shelter. He pointed out that West Bengal is the only state where central agency officials are attacked and beaten up severely whenever they attempt to take any action against anti-national activities.

Majumdar added, In addition, the state police are initiating an investigation against those central agency sleuths based on counter FIRs with baseless charges. Naturally, such developments encourage anti-national elements.

In response, Kunal Ghosh, the state general secretary of Trinamool Congress, indirectly hinted at the family of the leader of the opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, who hails from Kanthi, where the arrests were made. Ghosh did not directly name the Adhikari family but said, Let me ask BJP leaders one question. Where are the arrests made? It is Kanthi. We all know which family and BJPs main leader runs illegal activities from there. I urge the state agencies to investigate this matter to find out the Familys links in providing shelter to anti-national forces.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on INDIA bloc allies Rahul Gandhi and Lalu Yadav on Friday, accusing them of insensitivity towards the sentiments of the majority of the country. The Prime Ministers comments were in reference to a viral video from last year, where the two leaders were seen cooking mutton during the holy month of Sawan.

Addressing an election rally in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, PM Modi said, "The people of Congress and INDI alliance do not care about the sentiments of the majority of the people of the country. They enjoy playing with the sentiments of the people. A person who has been sentenced by the court and who is on bail, they visit the house of such a criminal and enjoys cooking mutton in the month of Sawan and they make a video of it to tease the people of the country."

#WATCH | J&K: Addressing a public rally in Udhampur, PM Modi says, "The people of Congress and INDI alliance do not care about the sentiments of the majority of the people of the country. They enjoy playing with the sentiments of the people. A person who has been sentenced by the pic.twitter.com/5HIWCsu5xk  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

Drawing parallels with the Mughals, PM Modi claimed that the intentions of these people were to tease the people of the country. The law does not stop anyone from eating anything but the intentions of these people are something else. When the Mughals attacked here, they were not satisfied until they demolished the temples. So just like Mughals, they want to tease the people of the country by showing the video in the month of Sawan, he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

PM Modi also reacted to the controversy triggered by Tejashwi Yadavs video. Amid Navratri, eating non-veg food, by showing these videos, hurting the sentiments of the people, who are you trying to impress? he questioned.
New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday arrested the perpetrator and the architect behind the explosion at Rameshwaram cafe in Bengaluru. The two key absconders in the Rameswaram Cafe blast case, identified as Adbul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, were traced out to their hideout near Kolkata and were apprehended by the NIA team.

In today's DNA, Zee News Anchor Sourabh Raaj Jain analysed the political bickering on the Rameshwaram Cafe blast after the NIA arrested two accused from West Bengal.

Amid the electoral atmosphere, politics inevitably seeps into every issue, and the recent case is no exception. BJP has initiated the discussion by raising concerns about the Mamata government's handling of the apprehended suspects from Bengal.

BJP leader Amit Malviya took to 'X' to express and wrote, "NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists."

In response, the West Bengal Police challenged this assertion through a post on X. They refuted the claims made by the BJP leader and criticized their disparaging remarks. "Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies," wrote West Bengal Police.

"The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities," the state police further said.

In the midst of this exchange, Mamata Banerjee, while addressing an election rally in Cooch Behar, did not shy away from responding to the BJP's accusations. "Heard one BJP leader saying that a bomb blast took place in Bangalore. The accused are from Karnataka, not from here. They were hiding in Bengal for two hours and in two hours our police managed to nab them. And they are saying that Bengal is not safe?" She took the names of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, Gujarat and Bihar.
New Delhi: K Annamalai, the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu and the partys Lok Sabha candidate from Coimbatore, has been accused of violating election campaign regulations. An FIR has been filed against him for allegedly campaigning after the authorized hours in the Avarampalayam area. Ramesh, the Coimbatore District BJP Secretary, is also mentioned in the FIR, indicating a potential breach of the election code of conduct. As per the FIR, Annamalai was campaigning in the region beyond the 10 pm deadline, which is the time limit imposed by the election code for parliamentary elections.

This is a developing story.
NEW DELHI: While the Haryana Police have arrested three people in connection with the deaths of six children in a road accident in Mahendragarh, the FIR registered in the case states that the driver of the ill-fated bus was drunk and ignored repeated requests by the children to slow down the speed. According to the FIR filed by a Class 12 student, the driver of the bus was allegedly intoxicated and callously disregarded the pleas of the terrified children to reduce speed. Instead, he reportedly threatened them, putting their lives at risk. Shockingly, there was no attendant on board to assist the children, exacerbating the gravity of the situation. Tragically, two of the deceased belonged to the same family, compounding the grief of their loved ones.

Among those apprehended in connection with the incident are the principal of the school and the driver of a private bus that was involved in the tragic journey. The driver, identified as Dharmender, had been driving recklessly prior to the accident, according to police reports. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed the presence of alcohol in his system, leading to his immediate arrest at the accident site.

Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing tales of the chaos and panic that ensued as the bus careened out of control, ultimately leading to the fatal collision. Many students sustained injuries, with shattered glass from broken windows adding to the severity of the situation. Some managed to escape by jumping off the bus in a desperate bid for survival.

In the aftermath of this devastating incident, questions have arisen regarding the school's decision to summon students on a day that was meant to be a holiday due to Eid. The government has demanded an explanation from the school administration, with repercussions potentially including the cancellation of its recognition. Additionally, transport authorities revealed that the bus had recently been fined for lacking necessary documentation, raising concerns about safety standards.

Authorities wasted no time in launching investigations and taking swift action. A case has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Motor Vehicles Act, holding accountable those deemed responsible for the tragedy. The administration has also initiated disciplinary measures, suspending an assistant secretary and ordering a thorough probe into the incident.

Expressions of grief and condolences poured in from across the political spectrum, with leaders at the national and state levels lamenting the loss of innocent lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other prominent figures extended their heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims, underscoring the profound impact of this heartbreaking event on the entire nation.
Recognized for its extensive curriculum that serves both medical and non-medical participants, I2CAN provides a broad spectrum of courses in these areas. The Institute prides itself on its international standards, holding ISO and IAF certifications and affiliations with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and Skill India, underscoring its commitment to educational excellence.

Marking its 8th year of operations, with the Mumbai branch celebrating its 2nd anniversary, I2CAN has been steadfast in its mission to deliver world-class education and training. Over these years, it has empowered over 5,000 students from India and abroad, nurturing them into successful professionals. The faculty at I2CAN comprises highly experienced educators and practitioners dedicated to imparting top-notch education and hands-on training.

The Institute's curriculum is meticulously designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed for their professional growth. I2CAN's infrastructure stands out for its modern facilities and the latest equipment, enhancing the learning experience through practical training and internships. This approach not only fosters skill development but also ensures students gain valuable industry exposure.

Furthermore, I2CAN enriches its academic offerings with workshops and seminars led by esteemed experts in cosmetology, aesthetics, and nutrition. These events serve as an invaluable resource for students, keeping them abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations.

I2CAN's success is a testament to its unwavering dedication to quality education, practical training, and industry relevance. As it moves forward, the Institute is excited about the future, planning to introduce new courses, engage in industry collaborations, and establish a research and development center. These initiatives aim to further elevate the educational standards and maintain I2CAN's leadership in the fields of cosmetology, aesthetics, and nutrition.

Celebrating its 2nd anniversary in Mumbai, I2CAN reaffirms its commitment to shaping the futures of aspiring professionals. For those interested in careers in these dynamic fields, I2CAN offers an unparalleled educational journey towards excellence and professional success.

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(This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Ltds Consumer Connect Initiative, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility, liability or claims for any errors or omissions in the content of the article. The IDPL Editorial team is not responsible for this content.)
New Delhi: India on Friday asked its citizens not to travel to Iran and Israel amid increasing fears that Tehran may launch an attack on Israeli soil in retaliation to a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria 11 days ago.

People familiar with the latest developments said no more Indians will be allowed to go to Israel to work in the construction sector. The first batch of 64 Indian workers had left for Israel earlier this month and over 6,000 construction workers from India were to leave for Israel in April and May.

There have been mounting tensions in West Asia following the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus. Iran blamed Israel for the strike and there have been media reports from Tel Aviv that the Israeli forces are preparing for any eventualities.

In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also urged the Indians residing in Iran and Israel to exercise utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to minimum.

"In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice," it said.

"All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," the MEA said.

"They are also requested to observe utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.

At present, around 4,000 Indians are residing in Iran while the number in Israel is nearly 18,500, according to official estimates.

It is learnt that New Delhi is looking at various contingencies including possible evacuation of the Indians from the two countries if the overall situation deteriorates.

Israel has been on high alert following threats from Iran as well as intelligence reports suggesting that Tehran was preparing to attack targets in Israel to avenge the April 1 attack on its consulate in Damascus.

Following the Israel-Hamas conflict, there were media reports that said the Israeli construction industry is looking at recruiting 100,000 Indian workers to replace the 90,000 Palestinians As per the plan, over 6,000 construction workers from India were to be brought to Israel in April and May.

They will be brought to Israel on "air shuttle" following a joint decision by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office (PMO), finance ministry and the construction and housing ministry on subsidising charter flights, a statement issued by the Israeli government late Wednesday said.

Last week, India expressed concern over the deadly attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Syrian capital Damascus and said it is distressed at the escalating tensions in West Asia and their potential to fuel further instability.

Iranian media reported that seven Revolutionary Guards personnel, including two generals, were killed in the attack.

Israel has been continuing its military offensive in Gaza as part of its retaliation to the unprecedented attack on Israeli cities by Hamas on October 7.

Hamas killed around 1,200 people in Israel and kidnapped more than 220 others some of whom were released during a brief ceasefire.

Over 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza in the Israeli offensive, according to the Hamas-run authorities in Gaza.

India has been calling for de-escalation of the situation and creating conditions for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations towards a two-state solution to the Palestine issue.
New Delhi: Atishi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Minister in the Delhi Government, issued a strong warning to the BJP-led central government on Thursday regarding the possibility of imposition of President's Rule in the national capital. She unequivocally stated that any such move would not only violate legal and constitutional norms but also defy the democratic mandate bestowed upon the AAP by the people of Delhi. "Let me warn the BJP that imposing President's rule in Delhi will be illegal, unconstitutional and against the mandate of the people of Delhi. The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party," the AAP leader said.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister & AAP leader Atishi says, "Let me warn the BJP that imposing President's rule in Delhi will be illegal, unconstitutional and against the mandate of the people of Delhi. The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party." pic.twitter.com/IbcVTnpkNK  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

In her statement, Atishi pointed to recent actions, including a letter from the Lieutenant Governor to the Union Home Secretary, as indicative of a broader conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the democratically elected government of Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi. She highlighted what she perceived as a ''deliberate lack of cooperation'' from the central government officers in Delhi, suggesting a coordinated effort to facilitate the imposition of the President's Rule.

"Arvind Kejriwal has been arrested in a fake case and that too without any proof because there is a conspiracy to topple the elected govt of Delhi. when we see a few things from the past, it shows that there has been a well-thought conspiracy going on. No officers are being posted in Delhi, no transfer postings within Delhi, and officers have stopped attending the meetings since the elections were announced. For the last week, the LG has been writing baseless letters to MHA and the CM's personal secretary has also been removed. This all shows the conspiracy that is going on to topple the Delhi govt," Atishi said.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister & AAP leader Atishi says, "Arvind Kejriwal has been arrested in a fake case and that too without any proof because there is a conspiracy to topple the elected govt of Delhi. when we see a few things from the past, it shows that there has been a pic.twitter.com/kcGcqRIpde  ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024

Atishi also raised concerns regarding the perceived double standards within the Election Commission, alleging discrepancies in the Commission's responsiveness to complaints filed by different political parties. She emphasized the need for impartiality and fairness in the electoral process to uphold the integrity of democratic institutions.

The catalyst for Atishi's warning stemmed from a letter from the Lieutenant Governor's office, which accused Delhi government ministers of failing to attend crucial meetings convened to address pressing issues such as healthcare and public infrastructure. Atishi expressed dismay over the ministers' absence and their apparent disregard for the gravity of the matters under discussion.

The letter from the Lieutenant Governor's office highlighted a healthcare crisis in Delhi, with shortages of basic medical supplies reported at healthcare facilities. Atishi underscored the urgency of addressing these challenges and urged for collaborative efforts to ensure the well-being of Delhi's residents.

The war of words between the BJP-led centre and the Delhi government has intensified ever since CM Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 in connection with a money laundering probe relating to alleged irregularities in the now-cancelled Delhi excise policy 2021-22.
Kashmir: The National Conference announced on Friday that former chief minister Omar Abdullah will contest from the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat, while Aga Ruhullah Mehdi will contest from the Srinagar constituency in the Kashmir Valley.

Omar Abdullah, who began his political career in 1998 as a Lok Sabha member from Srinagar, was elected to the Lok Sabha again in 1999 and 2004. He also served as a minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

Regarding his decision to contest from Baramulla, Omar stated, "Our fight is not against any individual but against the powers behind these candidates. The central government is exerting all its influence in Baramulla, and I have decided to contest from there."

Responding to Prime Minister Modi's accusations of nepotism, Omar retorted, "BJP is not against families in politics but against those families opposing BJP. BJP is full of dynastic politics." He also criticized the timing of granting statehood, stating, "Granting statehood before elections is for their benefit, not a favour to us."

Regarding BJP's candidate selection process, Omar challenged the party, stating, "If BJP's claims were strong, they would have fielded their own candidates instead of using proxies. If BJP candidates lose their deposits, I will quit politics."

Commenting on the current political situation, Omar criticized the central government, saying, "We are living in times of emergency. Democracy is in greater danger than during Indira Gandhi's era. Opposition leaders are being arrested for merely opposing the government."

Aga Syed Roohullah, a prominent Shia leader contesting from the Srinagar constituency, expressed his sentiments, stating, "I will connect with the people's sentiments during the election campaign. Unity among regional parties is crucial."

National Conference had previously announced Mian Altaf as the candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency, where he will face former Chief Ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Ghulam Nabi Azad.
VARANASI: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered site for millions of Hindu devotees, has become the centre of attention following the implementation of a controversial ''no touch'' rule directive issued by the Varanasi Commissioner of Police. This directive, which involves deploying officers adorned in saffron attire within the temple premises, has sparked a debate, drawing both criticism and praise from various quarters. The decision, unveiled on Tuesday, saw a visual transformation within the temple complex on Wednesday, with a select few officers exchanging their khaki uniforms for traditional kurta-dhotis in saffron hues. This move has elicited diverse reactions from devotees and observers, reflecting a spectrum of opinions on its implications and motivations.

Details Of The Directive

According to the directive, male officers will attire themselves in red or saffron dhotis and kurtas, complemented by an ''angvastram'' and tilak, mirroring the appearance of priests. Female officers, on the other hand, will don salwar kurtas in saffron and red. Before deployment, these officers will undergo a three-day training program focused on enhancing communication skills with devotees, aimed at fostering a more cordial interaction.

What Is The Objective?

Commissioner of Police Mohit Agrawal emphasized the imperative of addressing crowd management concerns, particularly during peak hours of darshan. Long queues often lead to frustration among devotees, prompting the implementation of a "no touch" policy for crowd control. Ropes will be utilized instead of physical intervention to guide devotees, promoting a friendlier police image and ensuring a smoother flow of visitors within the temple premises.

Controversy Surrounding The Directive

While some have lauded the initiative as a means to enhance the devotee experience, others have expressed scepticism, citing concerns over potential political undertones and religious sensitivities. The sight of policemen dressed in saffron amidst devotees has fuelled speculation, with some questioning its connection to election campaigning. Condemning the move, former UP CM and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the decision to allow police officers to dress in anything other than their uniforms poses a big security risk. "According to which 'police manual' is it correct for policemen to be dressed as priests? Those who give such orders should be suspended. If tomorrow any 'thag' (fraudster) takes advantage of this and loots the innocent public, then what will the UP government and administration answer? Condemnable!" Akhilesh Yadav wrote on X.

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! pic.twitter.com/BQUFmb7xAA  Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) April 11, 2024

Former SP minister Manoj Rai also criticized the move, denouncing it as disrespectful to religious sentiments and urging the Election Commission to intervene. Rai underscored the sanctity of saffron attire, cautioning against its politicization.

What Do The Astrologers Say?

In the sanctum sanctorum of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the police personnel adorned in attire resembling that of priests have been deemed appropriate by astrologer Pandit Shashishekhar Tripathi. According to astrology, the police force embodies the authority of the planet Mars, associated with fierce elements. Conversely, the temple and its atmosphere represent the representation of the divine teacher, Brihaspati. The connection of the teacher is with religion and spirituality. The presence of police personnel dressed as priests will diminish the influence of Mars and enhance the influence of the teacher element. This is favorable. In places of worship, the dominance of the teacher planet should be higher.

On the inaugural day post-directive, a mix of saffron-clad and khaki-uniformed policemen were observed within the temple complex. It remains unclear whether the officers donning saffron had undergone the prescribed training, adding further complexity to the ongoing controversy.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on general assumptions and knowledge. ZEE NEWS does not endorse it.)
UDHAMPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a public rally in Udhampur on Thursday, made a significant announcement reiterating the central government's commitment to reinstating statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister also assured the gathering of imminent assembly elections in J&K, stating, "The time is not far when assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir also. Jammu and Kashmir will get back its state status. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLAs, and your ministers."

Highlighting the progress made in the region, PM Modi emphasized that recent elections in Jammu and Kashmir occurred without the looming spectre of terrorism and cross-border firing. He expressed optimism about the developmental trajectory, asserting, "Vikas bhi ho raha hai, vishvaas bhi badh raha hai" (there is progress and confidence).

Omar Abdullah Reacts Sharply

However, the Prime Minister's announcement prompted a sharp response from National Conference leader Omar Abdullah. Abdullah pointed out that the Supreme Court had mandated the elections to be conducted before September 30, underscoring that it was now a compulsion for the Centre to adhere to the timeline set by the judiciary. Addressing reporters, Abdullah remarked, "It is the verdict of the Supreme Court. It would have been a favour for us if he (PM Modi) had conducted elections before the verdict of the SC. It is now a compulsion for him. It is the Supreme Court's verdict to conduct elections in Jammu and Kashmir before September 30."

#WATCH | Former J&K CM and NC leader Omar Abdullah says "It is the verdict of the Supreme Court. It would have been a favour for us if he (PM Modi) had conducted elections before the verdict of SC. It is now a compulsion for him. It is the Supreme Court's verdict to conduct https://t.co/iaKv51Gr3W pic.twitter.com/NzwUCozIu1 April 12, 2024

Background: Reorganization Of Jammu and Kashmir

The state of Jammu and Kashmir underwent significant reorganization in October 2019 when it was bifurcated into two Union Territories, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution of India, which granted special status to the region.

During his speech, PM Modi highlighted the transformative changes witnessed in the region, including the construction of educational and healthcare infrastructure, modernization of transportation networks, and increased tourism and pilgrimage activity. PM Modi said, "Now schools are not burnt here, but schools are decorated. Now AIIMS, IITs and IIMs are being built here. Now modern tunnels, modern wide roads, and wonderful rail journeys are becoming the destiny of Jammu and Kashmir." "Be it Jammu or Kashmir, now tourists and devotees have started coming here in record numbers," PM Modi said.

General Elections In J&K And Development Agenda

With the impending general election, PM Modi emphasized the importance of forming a robust government capable of addressing national challenges. He outlined the government's vision to propel Jammu and Kashmir towards unprecedented levels of development in the forthcoming years.

PM Modi said, "Trust me, I had told you to trust me and I will solve the problems plaguing Jammu and Kashmir for the last 60 years. I had guaranteed respect for the mothers and sisters here. I gave a guarantee that the poor would not have to worry about two meals a day. Today, lakhs of families in Jammu and Kashmir have the guarantee of free ration for the next 5 years..."

Electoral Outlook In J&K

As the political landscape heats up in the region, the BJP has fielded Union Minister Jitendra Singh from Udhampur, a constituency he has represented since 2014. The Congress, on the other hand, has nominated Choudhary Lal Singh, who returns to the party's fold after six years, following his controversial participation in a rally supporting the Kathua rape accused.

The upcoming elections in Udhampur, scheduled for April 19, will witness a fierce electoral battle between the BJP and other contenders, including the National Conference and the Congress. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP secured three out of six seats in Jammu and Kashmir, while the National Conference clinched the remaining three seats.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that the forthcoming Lok Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir will take place without the fear of terrorism, protests, stone-pelting, and cross-border firing. This marks a significant departure from "poll-boycott" campaigns run by the separatist group in the past three decades which have now become a history.

While addressing the public rally in Udhampur, Modi said that he had fulfilled his promise to end the long-suffering of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. PM further challenged Congress and other opposition parties to bring back Article 370 of the Constitution and said "They cannot do it". The article was revoked by the BJP-led government in August 2019.

"I have been coming to Jammu and Kashmir for the last five decades. I remember the Ekta Yatra in 1992 to unfurl the tricolour at the Lal Chowk (in Srinagar). We received a grand welcome. In 2014, after offering prayers at the Vaishno Devi temple, I addressed a gathering at this very venue and gave a guarantee of freeing the people who have suffered for generations (due to terrorism)," he said.

He added that with people's faith in our government, we have managed to fulfil the promise. "After decades, this election is taking place without the fear of terrorism, separatism, stone-pelting, strikes and cross-border terrorism, which are no more election issues. There used to be a concern regarding the security of the Vaishno Devi and Amarnath pilgrimages, but the situation has changed altogether. Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing development and the people's faith in the government is getting strengthened," the PM said.

After Pakistan-sponsored terrorism reared its head in the 1990s, the separatists led by the Hurriyat Conference used to run poll boycott campaigns in Jammu and Kashmir. The upcoming Lok Sabha polls will be the first election in the region after the abrogation of Article 370 and there is neither such a campaign nor stone-pelting this time around.

Referring to the revocation of Article 370, Modi challenged the Congress and other opposition parties to get back the contentious constitutional provision and said "They cannot do it".

Prime Minister also hits out at dynasty politics and said, "Families with a dynastic set-up have harmed Jammu and Kashmir more than anyone else. These parties are of the family, by the family and for the family and they are the ones who created the wall of Article 370. They created an illusion that only Article 370 can safeguard the lives of the people here."

"With your blessings, Modi has not only demolished this wall but even buried its debris. I challenge the opposition parties, especially the Congress, to announce that they will get Article 370 back. The country will not even look at their faces," he further added.

The rally was organised at Modi ground along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, aimed at bolstering support for Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who seeks a third consecutive victory from Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency seats.

The coming Lok Sabha election is scheduled to be held in seven phases, where Ushampur is all set to polls on April 19. The Congress party has nominated Choudhary Lal Singh and the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) has nominated G M Saroori from the seat.
NEW DELHI: In a swift rejoinder to the provocative remarks made by Misa Bharti, daughter of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a scathing response, dismissing her statements as mere "daydreaming." Misa Bharti recently sparked controversy by suggesting that if the opposition-led INDIA Alliance assumes power, all BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would face imprisonment. Hitting out at the BJP-led central government, Bharti had said, "We are talking about the implementation of MSP and he (PM Modi) sees appeasement in that. He always accuses our family of corruption whenever he arrives here (Bihar). If the people of this country give the INDIA alliance a chance (to form the government), then from PM Modi to BJP leaders, they will be behind bars." Her assertion, deemed as a threat by the BJP, drew sharp criticism.

BJP Replies To Misa Bharti

Reacting to Bharti's remarks, Ravi Shankar Prasad, a prominent Bihar BJP leader, warned against such rhetoric, emphasizing that threatening the Prime Minister would not be tolerated. The BJP leader underscored the impending electoral outcome, confidently predicting victory surpassing 400 seats for their party. "If you threaten the Prime Minister, action will be taken. Stop daydreaming, the results will be out on June 4th, and it will surpass 400," Prasad said.

#WATCH | Patna, Bihar: On RJD leader Dr Misa Bharti's remark, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad says, "What has happened to Misa Bharti?...The woman who's father (Lalu Yadav) has been convicted in the fodder scam...I warn her to not make such statements...You family is immeresed in pic.twitter.com/5HbEwSCfs8  ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2024

BJP's Counterattack On RJD

Notably, the BJP leader pointed out the irony of Bharti's stance, highlighting the corruption charges against her father, Lalu Prasad Yadav. He cautioned Bharti against making unfounded statements, reminding her of her family's tainted history. "What has happened to Misa Bharti? The woman's father (Lalu Yadav) has been convicted in the fodder scam. I warn her not to make such statements. Your family is immersed in corruption," he said.

Several top BJP leaders, including JP Nadda, Vinod Tawade, and Devendra Fadnavis, slammed Misa Bharti's provocative remarks against the Prime Minister. BJP chief JP Nadda said that the RJD keeps abusing PM Modi and their disappointment and frustration are at peak. "They (RJD) keep abusing PM Modi. The RJD's disappointment and frustration are at its peak. For 23 years, PM Modi has worked as the prime leader of the nation. For such a leader, Misa Bharti is saying that she will send him to jail after the elections," Nadda said.

Electoral Dynamics In Bihar

As the electoral battleground heats up in Bihar, Misa Bharti finds herself pitted against BJP's Ram Kripal Yadav in the Pataliputra constituency, setting the stage for a closely watched contest. With polling scheduled across seven phases, the state braces for a decisive electoral showdown.

Reflecting on past electoral outcomes, the BJP-led NDA emerged triumphant in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, clinching a dominant victory in Bihar. The coalition secured an overwhelming majority, overshadowing the opposition's Mahagathbandhan.

BJP's Electoral Performance

In the previous elections, the BJP asserted its dominance by securing a substantial share of seats, consolidating its position as a formidable political force in Bihar. The party's resounding victory underscored its growing influence and widespread support among voters.
New Delhi: Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut, the BJP candidate from the Mandi parliamentary constituency of Himachal Pradesh, on Friday launched a scathing attack on the ruling Congress party in Himachal Pradesh. She raised questions about Congress's promises regarding a pension scheme, Mobile hospital, employment to five lakh youth, and 1500 Rs to every female state.

Directing her criticism at Congress leader Vikramaditya Singh, Kangana asked whether the promises made to the people of Mandi had been fulfilled. "You would start a pension scheme. Did you... fulfil your promises? You had said that mobile vans would be started. It means vans with hospitals, which would go to different streets and provide treatment. Has anyone seen such vans in the Mandi?" Kangana said.

"You had promised to create 5 to 6 lakh jobs. Did anyone get a job? You had said that you would give Rs. 1500 to every woman and girl every month... Did anyone receive it?" she said.

      ,       pic.twitter.com/rkU3jQP3Ri  Kangana Ranaut (Modi Ka Parivar) (@KanganaTeam) April 12, 2024

During her speech, she praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fulfilling all his promises to the people. "If someone talks about work in this country, if someone actually does the work, and if someone starts and delivers with a guarantee, then there's only one person 'Narendra Modi'," Kangana said.

This rection comes after, Congress leader from Himachal Pradesh Vikramaditya Singh shared a video where he targeted Kangana and said that she has used words that have never been used in Himachal.

'I respect Kangana Ranaut a lot... But the words she has used specially for me and the Congress party have never been used in Himachal... She delivered a political speech in Manali and she failed to talk about local issues. A few months ago, Manali was facing a Natural disaster and she did not even visit the area," he said in the video.
New Delhi: Private lender HDFC Bank opened a branch at Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep, making it the only private sector bank to have a branch in the Union Territory. This branch is aimed at upgrading the banking infrastructure in the Union Territory by offering a wide range of services with a focus on personal banking, and digital banking which also includes customised digital solutions including QR-based transactions to retailers.

HDFC Bank has branches in the cold climes of Kashmir, the southern tip of Kanyakumari, and now the island of Lakshadweep - a prominent tourist place. (Also Read: EPFO Introduces Automatic Transfer Of EPF Accounts: Check Who Can Avail This Facility And Other Requirements)

"This reaffirms our commitment to serving customers wherever they are in an extremely convenient fashion," said S Sampathkumar, Group Head- Retail Branch Banking, HDFC Bank. (Also Read: Setback For OnePlus? Mobile Retailers' Body Threatens To Stop Sales From May 1)

"We look forward to serving the financial needs of individuals, families, and businesses in Lakshadweep and becoming a trusted partner in their financial journey and contributing to the overall development of the island," said S Sampathkumar.

As of December 31, 2023, the HDFC Bank's distribution network was at 8,091 branches and 20,688 ATMs across 3,872 cities or towns as against 7,183 branches and 19,007 ATMs across 3,552 cities or towns as of December 31, 2022.

About 52 percent of its branches are in semi-urban and rural areas. In addition, it has 15,053 business correspondents, which are primarily manned by Common Service Centres (CSC).
New Delhi: Ashneer Grover, co-founder and former managing director of BharatPe, is embarking on a new venture in the fintech realm. Grover is set to launch ZeroPe, an app tailored for medical loans, as per a report by Moneycontrol.

As indicated on its Google Play Store listing, ZeroPe is currently in its testing phase and has been created by Third Unicorn. The app aims to offer immediate pre-approved medical loans of up to Rs 5 lakh to users for their medical needs. To provide these loans instantly, the company has collaborated with Delhi-based Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) Mukut Finvest. (Also Read: Swiggy Introduces 'Paw-ternity' Policy For Employee Pet Care Support)

Access to this service is limited to partnered hospitals, as detailed on the ZeroPe app's website. Grover's involvement in this field contributes to an expanding trend, joining other companies such as SaveIn, Qube Health, Arogya Finance, Neodocs, Fibe, Kenko, and Mykare Health, which already provide instant financing options for medical expenses and elective procedures. (Also Read: Snapdeal's Kunal Bahl Reveals Protein Supplements Created Serious Health Issues For Him)

Grover, along with his wife Madhuri Jain Grover and entrepreneur Aseem Ghavri from Chandigarh, founded Third Unicorn in January 2023. "ZeroPe ensures a straightforward process by directly paying the approved loan amount on behalf of the user to the chosen hospital," ZeroPe wrote on its website.

To avail a medical loan through ZeroPe, individuals must first download the app, fill out a brief application, and subsequently obtain instant approval for the loan. Initially, the company ventured into the market with CrickPe to rival platforms like Dream11, Mobile Premier League (MPL), and My11Circle.
New Delhi: In today's digital age, it's important to stay informed about emerging scams especially those targeting essential services like electricity payments. Recently, fraudsters have devised a deceitful scheme aimed at tricking individuals, making it imperative for everyone to be alert and knowledgeable about this evolving threat.

Electricity providers inform customers about their monthly bill amount and deadline through SMS or WhatsApp messages. The fraudsters are misusing this method of communication by sending false messages about unpaid electricity bills to defraud people. (Also Read: 16th Finance Commission Announces Bumper Job Opening; Salary Upto Rs 1.75 Lakh Per Month --Check Details)

Many Twitter users have shared that they received similar messages from unknown numbers, stating that their electricity service will be cut off unless they call a provided number right away. (Also Read: Sensex Plunges 793 Points Amid Worries Over Delayed US Rate Cuts)

Scam alert: A pdf pretending to be from Ministry of Power stating your bill is pending and electricity will be disconnected. Asks to call on a scam number acting as electricity helpline. pic.twitter.com/cJGfn0bcZJ  CA Abhishek Murarka (@abhymurarka) March 20, 2024

In a post on social media platform X, the official handle of PIB Fact Check cautioned consumers about falling victim to this scam. The department clarified that the Ministry of Power had not issued any notice warning customers that their electricity connection would be terminated if they didn't "update" their bill. "Be cautious while sharing your personal and financial information" advised the PIB Fact Check department.

Don't get zapped by this scam!



A #Fake notice circulating on social media claims that your electricity will be cut off if you don't 'update' your bill#PIBFactCheck



@MinOfPower has not issued this notice



Be cautious while sharing your personal & financial information pic.twitter.com/u73K8VhSlH  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) April 8, 2024

Here are steps to protect yourself from such scams and determine if a message is fake:

- Check the message source: Official messages from electricity providers typically come from recognized, official numbers, not personal ones.

-Beware of urgent demands: Be cautious if a message or caller urges immediate action regarding your electricity bill payment. Scammers often create urgency to prevent careful consideration.

-Review the message content: Look for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as inconsistencies. Official government notices are usually well-written and error-free.

-Contact the relevant department directly: If you miss a payment or receive suspicious communication, contact the electricity board or supplier using the official contact details provided on your bills.
New Delhi: Yoav Gallant, the Israeli Defence Minister, has assured that his country will react suitably if Iran initiates an attack on Israeli soil. A direct Iranian attack on Israeli territory will require an appropriate Israeli response against Iran," Gallant conveyed to Lloyd Austin, the US Secretary of Defence, during a telephonic discussion on Thursday. This conversation, reported by Xinhua news agency, revolved around the preparations for a potential Iranian counterstrike.

Gallant elaborated on the measures Israel has taken and stressed that any Iranian aggression on its land will not be tolerated. This marked the second interaction between the two officials within a week.

US intelligence agencies have evaluated that Iran might soon launch a retaliatory strike in response to the death of seven Iranians in an Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Syria on April 1.

Earlier on the same day, Michael Kurilla, the Commander of the US Central Command, landed in Israel. He was there to discuss with Gallant and Herzi Halevi, the Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, about coordinating their responses to a potential Iranian offensive.
In the midst of the ongoing war in Gaza, Israel is preparing for potential threats in other areas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel, made it clear that Israel is ready to meet all its security needs, both defensively and offensively. Whoever harms us, we will harm them, he declared. The tension escalated when a senior Iranian general and six other officers were killed in an airstrike on the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus on April 1. Although Israel has not claimed responsibility, Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed that Israel must be punished for the attack.

Israels chief military spokesman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, assured that while civilians are not being told to make any special preparations, Israel is highly prepared for a range of scenarios.

How Is Israel Preparing For Likely Iran Attack?

As Netanyahu made these comments, Israeli troops and warplanes initiated an operation in central Gaza aimed at destroying the infrastructure of armed Palestinian groups. Most Israeli troops have been pulled out of Gaza, preparing for an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where over a million Palestinians are sheltering. However, fighting continues in various areas of the enclave.

Residents and militants reported intense gun battles with Israeli forces, particularly in the northern and southern areas of the Al-Nuseirat refugee camp. Israeli strikes from air, ground, and sea have been relentless, causing significant damage, including the destruction of two mosques.

The conflict in Gaza, now in its seventh month, has overshadowed the increasingly tense situation further north. Israeli troops have engaged in daily exchanges of fire with Hezbollah terrorists across the border in Lebanon. On Thursday, Israeli jets hit Hezbollah targets in several areas, including Meiss el Jabal, Yarine, and Khiam.

The Iranian-backed militia, known to possess a large arsenal of missiles, has long been considered one of the most likely forces that Tehran could use against Israel. However, so far, both sides have refrained from a full-scale confrontation.

In the past 24 hours, Israeli military strikes have resulted in the death of 63 Palestinians and injured 45 others, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Late on Thursday, an Israeli airstrike reportedly killed Rudwan Rudwan, the head of the Hamas-run police force in Jabalia camp in the northern Gaza Strip.

Since the Israeli offensive began, at least 33,545 Palestinians have been killed, with most of the 2.3 million population displaced and much of the enclave laid to waste. The war began when Hamas led an attack on southern Israel, resulting in the death of 1,200 people and 253 taken hostage. Around 130 are still being held incommunicado in Gaza, according to Israel.
Leaders from JPMorgan, Microsoft, and Apple attended a White House state dinner on Wednesday.

The dinner was hosted by President Biden for the prime minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida.

Take a look at the business leaders and tech moguls who attended the lavish event.

On Wednesday top business and tech figures mingled with celebrities and lawmakers at the White House for a state dinner hosted by President Joe Biden.

The event was in honor of the prime minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida, as the two countries reaffirmed military and economic partnerships alongside new technology initiatives to strengthen cybersecurity and AI.

CEOs and founders, including Jamie Dimon, Tim Cook, and Jeff Bezos, attended the lavish event. The guest list also included BlackRock CEO Larry Fink and SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son.

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan, and his wife, Judy Dimon

Bonnie Cash/Reuters

Earlier this week, Jamie Dimon released his annual shareholder letter which outlined some of the biggest problems facing JPMorgan Chase and the world. He touched on topics from AI to geopolitics and called for the US to bring the West together during times of global turbulence.

Apple CEO Tim Cook took a seat at the table

Tim Cook. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Tim Cook was among several tech moguls who attended the event, which had a cherry blossom theme. Cook also attended last year's White House state dinner honoring the prime minister of India Narendra Modi, alongside OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, among others.

Lisa Jackson, another key Apple figure, joined Cook

Tasos Katopodis/Getty

Lisa Jackson, vice president of environment, policy and social initiatives at Apple, is no stranger to the White House. She served as administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency under President Barack Obama.

Jeff Bezos and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez were in attendance

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez. DREW ANGERER/AFP via Getty Images

The former Amazon CEO was invited to the event alongside his fiancee Lauren Sanchez, a former news anchor. Their relationship became public in 2019, following Bezos' split from MacKenzie Scott.

Microsoft president Brad Smith secured an invite

Brad Smith pictured on the left. Bonnie Cash/Reuters

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Microsoft plans to invest $2.9 billion in AI data centers in Japan by 2025.

President and COO of Blackstone, Jon Gray, and his wife Mindy, cofounder of the Gray Foundation

Bonnie Cash/Reuters

Gray has worked at the private equity giant Blackstone since he was 22 years old and rose to prominence in the company's real estate investment group, before taking on the role of president and COO under Stephen Schwarzman.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell also got in on the action

Tasos Katopodis/Getty

Jerome Powell was appointed to his role as Fed chair by former President Trump and then reappointed by Biden. He has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the central bank staying above the political fray when it comes to decision-making on monetary policy.

Story continues

President Biden hosted the event in honor of the Japanese prime minister, Fumio Kishida

Evan Vucci/AP

The grand event was designed recognize to the "flourishing" friendship between Japan and the US, First Lady Jill Biden said at a media preview of the event on Tuesday.

Read the original article on Business Insider
BlackRock (BLK) CEO Larry Fink lashed out at political critics of the world's largest money manager in combative new comments Friday, saying they "continuously lie."

The remarks came as his firm continues to face heat from hot-button political fights across the country.

"We have done a better job now of telling our story so that people can make decisions based on facts, not on lies and not on misinformation or politicization by others," Fink said during a first quarter earnings call.

"Unfortunately, there's still others out there ... who continuously lie about these issues," he added.

Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, at a roundtable discussion on the global energy transition in Dubai in December. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images) (Sean Gallup via Getty Images)

Fink didn't name any US politicians directly but the comments appear to be an unmistakable reference to continued attacks from politicians on the Republican side of the aisle both in Washington and in conservative states like Texas.

Republicans have continued to try and make Fink and his firm into the preeminent example of what they charge is "woke investing" as the 2024 election season continues to heat up.

Fink also says the attacks aren't working, pointing to an increase in US investments in his company. He says there has been $1.9 trillion in total net inflows from US investors into BlackRock over the last five years and nearly $300 billion in new US investor money that appeared on the company's books just in the last year.

"I do believe that with the vast majority of our clients, our long-term fiduciary approach and performance are resonating," says Fink.

The new comments came as the world's largest asset manager reported overall results that included new record levels of assets under management, with the company now managing $10.5 trillion in investor money around the world.

The company's stock opened down as trading began Friday, falling more than 1%.

BlackRock's stock is also down for 2024 as a whole, while the S&P 500 has risen around 8% in recent months, according to Yahoo Finance data.

An array of political attacks

The comments from Fink appeared directed at ongoing political standoffs on multiple fronts.

On Capitol Hill, House Republicans led by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan are currently pursuing an investigation into so-called ESG investing.

The committee recently subpoenaed BlackRock and other asset managers as it seeks information on what it calls "collusive agreements to promote and adopt left-wing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals."

Fink has also backed away from using the politically contentious acronym, vowing last year not to say ESG and arguing it had become weaponized.

Story continues

Friday's commentary also came after a recent dustup between BlackRock and a Texas government fund that announced plans to withdraw $8.5 billion as the chairman of the Texas State Board of Education charged that BlackRock policy was to "boycott energy companies."

That charge came after Fink had made inroads with Texas's conservative government on infrastructure issues, even receiving praise from Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick earlier this year.

In his annual letter last month, Fink pushed back on the boycott charges, pointing out his firm "has never supported divesting from traditional energy firms" and currently has more than $300 billion invested in such companies.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan following a budget vote at the US Capitol in March. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) (Chip Somodevilla via Getty Images)

Fink has also continued to urge investors to stay focused on an ongoing global transition in energy, with a specific focus on infrastructure projects that will fuel new traditional and renewable energy sources in the years ahead.

The issue fueled BlackRock's recent $12.5 billion bet to buy private equity firm Global Infrastructure Partners as it anticipates growing demand for new energy, transportation, and digital infrastructure projects in the coming years.

Fink told investors Friday he sees "unprecedented need for new infrastructure" in the years ahead and is aiming for the Global Infrastructure Partners deal to close later this year.

The company's quarterly earnings call Friday morning also touched on an array of other topics from new offerings in the retirement space to the recent introduction of a bitcoin ETF. Fink also drew attention to investors who are still holding cash on the sidelines in response to what he describes as "fear and uncertainty" emanating from US and global politics.

"We started 2024 with great momentum and I strongly believe that there are more opportunities ahead for BlackRock, more than any other time before," Fink said as he signed off Friday, wishing investors a good quarter.

Ben Werschkul is Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance.

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A rapeseed field begins to bloom. Jan Woitas/dpa

Rental prices for agricultural land in Germany have risen significantly in recent years, reaching an average cost per hectare last year of 357 ($381), according to government figures released on Friday.

Last year's average rents are a 9% increase over 2020, when rent for a hectare stood at 329, according to Germany's Federal Statistical Office.

According to the report, there were major regional differences in rents.

While an average lease fee of 99 per hectare was estimated for the state Saarland, which borders Luxembourg and France, an average of 560 was due in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia further north.

In Lower Saxony (548), Schleswig-Holstein (479) and Bavaria (415), rental fees were also significantly higher than the national average.

In 2023, around 85% of farms in Germany were sole proprietorships, just over half of which were operated as a sideline by a farmer with another job as well. Those farms tended to be small, averaging 46 hectares.

Bigger businesses, including partnerships, corporations and other kinds of companies, made up the rest. But those farms tended to be more than three times as large, averaging 176 hectares per farm - and together farm about 39% of all agricultural land in Germany.
(Reuters) - Lockheed Martin said on Thursday it had won a contract worth up to $4.1 billion from the U.S. government's Missile Defense Agency to continue the development of its battle command system.

The contract will aim at developing and upgrading the Command and Control, Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC)-Next system.

The C2BMC is a hardware and software interface for the ballistic missile defense system used by the U.S. defense forces for coordinated responses to emerging threats.

"Part of C2BMC-Next will be enhancing global integration, exploring possibilities of linking this decades-long proven, operationally fielded system with allied nations for the first time," the company said.

The ordering period of the contract is from May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2029, with an option to extend through April 30, 2034.

The defense company added that it will perform the upgradations at a new Huntsville, Alabama facility and Colorado Springs, Colorado.

(Reporting by Aatreyee Dasgupta in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel)
It was, for some, an outcome by design. For others, it was almost completely avoidable. Either way the reality is the same: Maryland lawmakers finished their historic 446th session Monday in Annapolis in a way that will set them up to face the same looming question that greeted them when they arrived this year.

How, exactly, is the state going to pay for all of this?

Lawmakers convened in the State House in January in a precarious financial situation, with budget deficits that risked the futures of core government services and the success of ambitious education, climate and transportation plans.

Debates on whether to raise taxes grew louder over the next three months, with Senate Democratic leaders trying to hold the line and House Democrats pushing a robust revenue package.

The final compromise made some inroads: through a series of tobacco taxes and vehicle-related fees, there will be an estimated $246 million over three years to fully fund the education-focused Blueprint for Marylands Future through the 2027 fiscal year, and up to $328 million annually to begin resolving a roughly $3.3 billion, six-year transportation funding shortfall.

But much was left unresolved. A $483 million structural shortfall built into the next budget is expected to grow to nearly $3.3 billion in four years as spending outpaces revenue and Blueprint costs increase, independent legislative analysts reported Friday. And that doesnt even include big wish-list items of some Democrats, like reviving the Red Line transit project in Baltimore or a $1 billion annual climate plan that the Maryland Department of the Environment released late last year.

Leaders on all sides acknowledged the looming issue, with Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Baltimore Democrat, maintaining that a thorough public debate on taxes still needs to happen and House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, a Baltimore County Democrat, saying her caucus is ready to act.

Democratic Gov. Wes Moore, for his part, said his stance is going to be the same as long as hes in office.

I dont look at any conversation around taxes as an ideology. I look at them as a tactic, Moore said in an interview with The Baltimore Sun on the sessions final day. Its something that every single year well go through a process and well determine what makes sense for the people of the state, what makes sense for working families in the state. The thing that is going to always stay consistent for me, though, is my bar is going to be very high about any conversations when it comes to revenue and revenue increases.

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The budget cooked up this year  with higher taxes on cigarettes, increased vehicle registration fees and new fees on electric vehicles and ride-sharing services  met that bar, he said, even though his original budget proposal didnt include any new revenue. It instead called for pulling from reserves, increasing state debt and cutting some programs.

Legislators shrunk the amount of some of Moores proposed cuts, and in other places decided to spend where the governor wanted to save. But the lawmakers adopted Moores proposed one-time fixes to fill an immediate $1.1 billion cash shortfall, as well as a $255 million revenue downgrade in the middle of the session and a potentially $200 million shortfall for Medicaid costs. Meanwhile, the final budget includes new spending for education, child care, expanding affordable housing and public safety, as both Moore and many legislators hoped it would.

Moore said the result proves the state can make bold investments and not raise sales taxes and income taxes and corporate income taxes.

Many of the governors own allies disagree.

They were creative in their approach this year, but they merely delayed the inevitable, said Ben Orr, CEO of the Maryland Center on Economic Policy.

Essential and popular government programs remain at risk, Orr said, noting the governors initial proposal included cutting some community college funding and higher co-pays for parents using a state-funded child care program.

Those are some things that will become unavoidable if we continue on this current path, he said.

Orrs nonprofit joined union leaders, school advocates and some Democratic lawmakers this year in backing a plan that they said would have raised $1.6 billion, mostly from expanded taxes on households earning more than $250,000 and on corporations, while giving most Marylanders a tax break of up to a few hundred dollars.

The Fair Share for Maryland Act was never brought for a vote, though House Democrats used one corporate tax piece for their revenue proposal. Sen. Shelly Hettleman, who introduced the bill in the Senate, said she viewed it as a conversation starter. She wasnt yet sure if she would introduce it in the same form again next year, but emphasized conversations about increasing revenues will continue in 2025  and potentially beyond.

Our transportation needs are not going away. Theyre only increasing, said Hettleman, a Baltimore County Democrat. We either have to temper our expectations or do something different.

Del. Stephanie Smith, a Baltimore Democrat, began the session on a mission to restore cuts to a portion of highway user revenues expected to be shared with local governments. The cuts were something the Moore administration proposed as part of its plan to slash the transportation budget. Baltimore relies on those funds more than other local governments to repair its vast network of roads, bridges and sidewalks. Smith said she was thankful the budget compromise prevented a devastating loss of funding for the city.

But it will be critical to keep up the revenue conversation, she said. And with the potential for cutbacks on everything from commuter services to pre-K for 3- and 4-year-olds, Smith said she would seek to focus on what could be lost versus what could be gained.

There should be a high bar for exacting policy pain through budget cuts, Smith said.

Hundreds more bills await Maryland Gov. Wes Moores signature

Environmental advocates who had mixed results this session after years of successfully pushing aggressive climate change goals are also concerned about bills coming due.

The RENEW Act, the priority for groups like the Chesapeake Climate Action Network this year, failed to get a vote. The legislation would have fined the largest-polluting companies from the last two decades to raise $9 billion over 10 years for climate mitigation and a transition to renewable energy.

Del. Lorig Charkoudian, an environmental policy-focused Montgomery County Democrat, said the state may not be able to pay for its $1 billion-per-year climate plan without holding fossil fuel companies accountable. That could happen via a future version of the RENEW Act, she said, or by Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown suing fossil fuel companies.

In the end, theres so much money thats needed I dont see how were going to get there without fossil fuel companies paying, Charkoudian said. The sooner we figure that out, the closer we get to when were actually holding that money.

On the final day of the session, environmental advocates lamented the death of the funding bill. They were also disheartened by legislative actions they said rolled back parts of Marylands 2022 Climate Solutions Now Act. Those including delaying both a regulation aimed at making buildings energy use more efficient and a deadline for state purchases of 100% zero-emission buses. The regulatory change, in particular, raised alarms because it came in the form of a quiet, last-minute addition to the voluminous budget bill.

We have a bold climate agenda. It will hit some bumps. There will need to be adjustments. Everybody here accepts that. What we cant accept is that were going to get cut out of the process, Maryland Sierra Club director Josh Tulkin said Monday outside the State House as a New Orleans-style brass band played funeral music.

Moore, who could hear the music from his second-floor office on the other side of the building, said hes willing to have serious conversations with anyone about the future of the state, revenue packages or otherwise.

In the meantime, the calls for action will keep coming, as they always do.

Lets not forget what were doing is necessary, Alvin Thornton, who led the last major statewide education commission prior to the one that produced the Blueprint, said during a rally in March while gesturing to the governors mansion and the State House. No matter whos in that house, or that house, we must be out here to let them know, as I said 22 years ago, We got your back.

____
Memelon Tusk

Memelon Tusk is a new meme coin that aims to address the lack of creativity and innovation in the crypto market.

Larnaca, Cyprus, April 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Memelon Tusk will soon open a trading competition in LATOKEN, offering 5,000 USDT worth of rewards. The project has already gone live on various cryptocurrency exchanges and is gaining traction in the community.





With a playful approach to cryptocurrency, Memelon Tusk offers NFTs, staking options, community-driven events, and more. The team introduces a utility-based token that rewards its holders with various benefits.

A Top Trading Competition with Memelon Tusk on LATOKEN

Starting on April 12th, it will be possible to join a new trading competition with Memelon Tusk on LATOKEN. Here, anyone can participate in a newly-born community and trade to win a 5000 USDT prize pool in TUSK. The project went live on PancakeSwap back in January and is available on other decentralized exchanges as well.

The upcoming listing of the TKP/TUSK pair on PancakeSwap represents another important milestone for Memelon Tusk. Its innovative staking system, inspired by HEX, is a rare and valuable feature for anyone interested in crypto passive income.

To top it off, Memelon Tusk has already burned an impressive 5.8 billion tokens since its launch. The strategy of burning a portion of the tokens in circulation aims to create a deflationary effect. The idea is, therefore, to benefit investors in the long term.

Features and Benefits of Memelon Tusk

Furthermore, Memelon Tusk offers unique and rare NFTs for users to collect and trade. These NFTs not only have aesthetic value but also hold utility within the ecosystem. The team "hid" a few NFTs, and only those who stake tokens will be able to find them.

Users can also benefit from on-chain low-cost transactions for a smooth and efficient user experience. Additionally, Memelon Tusk has a fair launch process with transparent communication and regular updates from the team. The team's tokens are locked for one year using smart contracts to ensure honesty and legitimacy.

Overall, Memelon Tusk does not want Web3 enthusiasts to consider the project as just another token. Ideally, this team is building towards a more interactive and engaging community ecosystem. The aim is to bring together traders with a passion for crypto, blockchain, and fun. The reference to Musk is not merely a catchy name but an inspiration for anyone interested in innovation and forward-thinking.

The team fixed the maximum supply of TUSK to 999,666,333,000 tokens. The token allocation will work as follows:

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Locked rewards : The project locked 24% of the total supply for staking rewards to incentivize long-term holders.

Public sale : the project has reserved 20.01% of the total supply for a public sale, allowing anyone to purchase TUSK at a fair price.

Team : the team has allocated 18% of the total supply to themselves. However, Memelon Tusk will lock these tokens for one year.

Liquidity pool : the project has reserved 14.69% of the total supply for liquidity purposes, ensuring a healthy and stable market.

Private sale : the tokenomics includes a 9.73% allocation for private sale.

Marketing : a portion of 7.5% of the total supply will help the team fund marketing campaigns.

Reserve : a 5.1% allocation will serve as a reserve for future development and improvements within the ecosystem.

Airdrop: Lastly, 0.97% of the total supply will enter an airdrop campaign, distributing tokens to early supporters and community members.

The main purpose is to guarantee a fair token distribution and give the team enough resources to develop the project.

About Memelon Tusk

Memelon Tusk is a new meme coin that aims to address the lack of creativity and innovation in the crypto market.

The community will enjoy rewards in multiple ways. In only a few days (April 12th), a trading competition launched by Memelon Tusk will open in LATOKEN. The competition will reward traders with a 5000 USDT pool in TUSK tokens.

Anyone curious to learn more about the project can visit its website and read the team's whitepaper. Memelon Tusk's social media pages below provide regular updates and communicate openly with the community.

X (Twitter) | Telegram







CONTACT: James M. tusk at memelontusk.io




Qabil Ashirov

There is no other explanation for shooting two Azerbaijani servicemen on the border by Armenia, but for playing with fire. On the other hand, it reveals the hidden side of the Armenian character. As is known, the conventional border between Azerbaijani and Armenian is one of the most militarized places on the earth. However, peace dominated on the border following the defeat of Armenia in a raw. For several months there were neither shoot-out not any provocation. Nevertheless, the West and France could not tolerate this temporary stability and instigated a new source of conflict. Paris incepted this this through its donation of weapons and military equipment to Armenia.

Later, Western media outlets started to disseminate material that ostensibly Azerbaijan was preparing military aggression against Armenia. It is worth noting that the Western media has been disseminated the said material for over two years, but Azerbaijani soldiers has not stepped an inch towards Armenia. As Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev repeated several times, Azerbaijan does not intend to invade anybody's territories. Following the dark PR of the Western media, Western politicians voiced putting sanctions on Baku for a possible military confrontation with Armenia.

To top it all off, the Brussels conference that was held on April 5 threw oil on the fire. Suddenly, Armenia became more aggressive and the skirmishes on the conventional Azerbaijani-Armenian border increased.

Reviewing all the above-said facts once again confirms that the empty promises of the West encourage Armenians and revives revanchist sentiment in the country. However, it does not promise anything good to Yerevan. It is better for Armenians not to forget that the West has never protected anyone except their interests. And fighting with mighty Azerbaijan does not meet their interests. At the end of the day, it will be ordinary Armenian citizen to pay the cost of the blunders of the authority. There are tens of examples to prove it. For example, supporting the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia in the 1970s is the best example of it. Despite the brutal mass killing of hundreds of thousands of people indiscriminating kids, young, old, and women, the West supported the terror regime because it met their interests. The Iraq-Iran war is another example. During the war, the West openly supported Saddam Hussein. However, later it was found out that the USA double-crossed Saddam Hussein by selling weapons to Iran. So to speak, the West overtly and covertly supported the two sides to prolong the war. As a results, thousands of innocent Iraqis and Iranians lost their lives. The fate of Saddam Hussein was more drastic. His former friends invaded Iraq and sent Saddam to gallows.

So, it is better for Yerevan to review its collaboration with the West. Instead, it should find common ground with Azerbaijan avoiding West's sweet but deceitful promises. Armenians should not forget that unlike their country, Azerbaijan has never tried to expand its territories at the cost of its neighbors. The foreign policy of Azerbaijan bases on international law. It should be emphasized that there are two options for Armenia. Either Yerevan sign peace agreement with Azerbaijan, or it will enjoy much dishonorable defeat soon.
The construction industry added 39,000 jobs nationwide in March  the most since January 2023  according to the Associated General Contractors of Americas most recent analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Construction employment in March totaled 8.2 million workers.

Steel company adding jobs in region

All types of construction firms were hiring in March, said Ken Simonson, the AGCs chief economist, in a press release. But the record number of construction job openings at the end of February indicates contractors would have hired even more workers if they were available to keep pace with demand.

As part of the CBJ survey for an upcoming list, we asked Charlotte-area general contractors to share their experiences finding qualified employees locally. Of the 33 companies that responded to the poll, 52% answered that hiring is somewhat difficult and an additional 15% said very difficult. Thirty percent answered average. The remaining 3% responded somewhat easy.

Are you looking for a job with a Charlotte-area general contractor? Nearly two dozen are hiring in Charlotte. Find a listing of those companies and the positions they have open on CBJs website here.












WASHINGTON, April 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- NSSF, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, proudly honored U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) as the 2023 NSSF Legislator of the Year for his persistent pursuit of accountability of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Biden administration for unconstitutional attacks on the firearm industry and the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.

National Shooting Sports Foundation Logo (PRNewsfoto/NSSF)

Congressman Jordan is the Chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee and is a member of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee. In these roles, Chairman Jordan has exposed the abusive policies forced by the Biden administration through the DOJ and ATF to attack the firearm and ammunition industry. He has demanded answers for Executive Branch overreach that has infringed on the lawful commerce in arms and the ability of Americans to freely purchase the firearms they choose to own in the exercise of their Second Amendment rights.

"We are honored to present Chairman Jordan with the 2023 NSSF Legislator of the Year Award for his unwavering leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives to protect the firearm and ammunition industry and the growing community of gun owners," said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. "Chairman Jordan's dogged determination for accountability from agencies within the Executive Branch have reasserted Congress's role in the balance of authority between the three co-equal branches of government and has served as a backstop against an administration intent on decimating the firearm and ammunition industry. Our industry, and the American public, is deeply grateful for Chairman Jordan's fierce determination to protect the Second Amendment rights of all Americans and the industry that makes the exercise of those rights possible."

Chairman Jordan chastised ATF Director Steven Dettelbach for overstepping his authority when the bureau imposed new regulations on "stabilizing braces" in a 2023 hearing. Chairman Jordan told Director Dettelbach that the policy "turns law abiding gun owners into felons as a result of unelected bureaucrats simply enacting a new regulation."

Chairman Jordan added in that hearing, "That's not how it's supposed to work. In our great country, Congress writes the laws and the executive branch enforces them. Here, the executive branch has taken power from Congress in deciding what the law should be  Director Dettelbach has, in essence, become a one-man Congress."

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The ATF's stabilizing pistol brace rule has been enjoined nationally by a federal court judge in Texas. Several challenges to the ATF rule have been consolidated and are pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

Chairman Jordan also demanded answers from Director Dettelbach on the ATF's "zero-tolerance" policy that has seen firearm retailers lose their licenses and livelihoods for unintentional administrative errors. Chairman Jordan further demanded answers from Director Dettelbach on why the ATF proposed a new "engaged in the business" rule that would require near-universal background checks for firearm transfers, when Congress specifically rejected the idea.

Chairman Jordan's investigation into the Weaponization of the Federal Government uncovered the collusion between the FBI, DOJ, U.S. Treasury Department and private banks to violate the Fourth Amendment rights of gun purchasers by creating a watchlist of potential "violent domestic terrorists" simply for exercising their Second Amendment rights. Chairman Jordan's investigations exposed Bank of America's voluntary disclosure of private financial transactions at firearm and ammunition retailers, purchase records and private data to the FBI without a warrant or notification to the bank's customers. That investigation revealed that Citibank was also complicit in warrantless searches.

Chairman Jordan's investigations continue. Just last month, he castigated the Biden administration in a hearing on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, explaining the Executive Branch illegally spied on Americans' lawful gun purchases because they were politically out of step with The White House's gun control agenda.

"And and if you're a gun owner, look out," Chairman Jordan said . "You're going to the top of the list. For simply exercising your Second Amendment right, you're on the FBI's target list. Never forget, the federal government got this information without any process. No warrant and frankly, no notification."

He added, "Since then, we've learned that the financial surveillance was broader and there was actually a specific objective. The federal government is building profiles on the American people. And the profile isn't based on criminal conduct. It's based on political beliefs and if you've got the wrong political beliefs, well, you're a potentially violent domestic extremist."

About NSSF

NSSF is the trade association for the firearm industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of thousands of manufacturers, distributors, firearm retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen's organizations and publishers nationwide. For more information, visit nssf.org .

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nssf-honors-us-rep-jim-jordan-as-2023-legislator-of-the-year-302115452.html

SOURCE NATIONAL SHOOTING SPORTS FOUNDATION
Trying hard to stay afloat in a restaurant industry spending 36% of its cash on labor and with minimum wage creeping to $16, a cadre of local New York City chains have found a shrewd way to save: enlisting the help of cashiers video calling in from the Philippines and paying them way less.

At Sansan Chicken, a fried-chicken joint in the East Village and Long Island City, cashiers on a large screen greet customers and answer questions they may have about the menu or their self-service kiosk. They take UberEats orders over the phone to take the pressure off each location's handful of in-person employees. And for their efforts, they get paid about just a handful of dollars every hour.

The staffing firm behind this technology is Happy Cashier, a New York-based company that is testing its product on a handful of local businesses. The company, led by founder and partner Chi Zhang, wants to empower small businesses by providing exceptional virtual cashier services, as well as operational assistance, Zhang told Fortune.

Zhangs company draws most of its labor from a massive well of 1.3 million Filipino workers employed through the countrys business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, which is the largest in the world and generated $35.4 billion in revenue in 2023.

The business, which has been operating in Sansan Chicken since last October, is also in its pilot stages at Sansan Ramen and a couple Yaso Kitchen locations, as well as in another local chain that Zhang did not disclose the name of. Zhang, who actually used to own a Yaso Kitchen operation, identified worker productivity as a part of business that could use a tune-up.

The impetus for the business came from Zhangs own retail experience. After opening a restaurant in downtown Brooklyn in 2015, he ended up closing the location during the pandemic in part because of how difficult it was to hire workers. Indeed, Zhangs story is a common one for restaurateurs: COVID-era fast-food labor shortages are what pushed chains like Chipotle and Sweetgreen to turn toward implementing automation in stores. But the use of technology can be more than just a saving grace for struggling businesses, Zhang argued.

Happy Cashiers speak perfect English and have helped take the pressure off in-person workerswhose jobs have not been eliminated since the introduction of the video-calling serviceby picking up UberEats calls and answering customers questions while employees physically in the store prepare orders. The help from Happy Cashier has successfully increased operational efficiencies, Zhang said.

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Of course, this service means very little unless it helps the bottom line. Zhang was transparent about using outsourced labor to cut down on costs: I simply cannot avoid discussing this topic, he said. The cost is admittedly cheaper than the U.S.

Though he didnt disclose Happy Cashiers wages, Zhang said, We pay 150% more than the average cashier job in the Philippines, which, according to Indeed, is 56.69 Philippine pesos, or about $1, per hour as base pay. Using Zhangs approximation, Fortune calculated that Happy Cashier employees would make $2.50 hourly150% more than the $1 converted average. Happy Cashier did not respond to Fortunes request to clarify the salary situation, but these wages are on top of tips that are split between in-person and virtual employees. Each restaurant owner determines the exact tipping system.

We discuss with the owners, How do you want it distributed? and make sure there's a very fair amount evenly distributed to the people working based on time and energy put into the operations, Zhang said.

In some cases, this means that tips are split 60/40, with most of the cash going to in-person workers. Zhang said workers seem fine with the arrangement.

We didnt have any objections since that process was enacted, he said.

The company's practice of outsourcing labor may be part of a growing practice of leveraging technology in the workplace, though not one without controversy. Canadian fast-casual chain Freshii used a video-calling system called Percy in 2022, paying its remote workers based in Nicaragua $3.75 per hour, even though Ontarios minimum wage is $16.55. Though an investigation by the Toronto Star on the companys wages drew criticism and Freshii discontinued Percy in August 2023, it didnt do so for legal reasons. It attributed the change to a change in ownership.

Its just like any other kind of outsourcing, employment lawyer Jonathan Pinkus told the Star. If youre sending jobs to people in a different country, youre only obligated to comply with the labor standards of that country. Being virtually present in Ontario doesnt change that.

Happy Cashier, a business that has no website and isnt even officially on the market, is already seeing success. Zhang said the company has a couple dozen prospective customers who heard of him through word of mouth. He plans to introduce the service to the market by the end of June.

Like the name Happy Cashier, [my goal] is to bring my customer happiness, confidence, and sustainable growth, he said.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
An open government activist from Western Washington is filing a lawsuit this week against the Downtown Pasco Development Authority over alleged violations to state meeting laws.

Arthur West alleges that authority board members and staff knowingly violated the states Open Public Meetings Act by deliberating and taking action at several illegal meetings from April to December 2022.

This particular agency seems to have gone rogue, West told the Tri-City Herald in a phone interview this week.

Redevelopment, developing downtowns and having economic vitality in our downtowns is a good thing. But its also a good thing to have reasonable public oversight over these agencies when theyre performing these laudable goals, he said.

The citizens in Pasco, who pay their tax money to have this done, deserve to have an open process so they can see where the money is going and who is making the decisions, he said.

Washingtons open meetings law requires the governing bodies of all public agencies to notify the public of all meetings and make them open to anyone.

West, an Olympia resident, is a prodigious amateur litigator who has served as a government watchdog for nearly four decades.

He has filed scores of lawsuits against municipal governments, and has often made them fork over cash through settlements.

That includes, more recently, a suit in 2023 over the Washington Senates silently withholding of public records and another in 2022 over an illegal meeting the Richland School Board held to make COVID face masks optional.

Usually if the agencies are not following the sunshine laws, theyre doing something wrong, West said.

He believes a state audit this year of the Downtown Pasco Development Authority may have only scratched the surface. He would be interested in seeing a more thorough autopsy of the organizations structure, processes and accounting practices, and hopes discovery in his lawsuit will answer questions.

At this point, Im not sure if everything theyve done has been brought to light yet, he said.

Troubled downtown group

The downtown group is an independent public development authority and nonprofit with a mission to support economic revitalization around the downtown area.

A vehicle for the Downtown Pasco Development Authority is parked near the organizations office at 110 S. Fourth Ave. in Pasco. Bob Brawdy/bbrawdy@tricityherald.com

Under Washington state law, local governments can create or contract with public corporations, commissions, or authorities to do that work with public money but they must follow laws on open meetings, public records and more.

West alleges in the lawsuit obtained by the Herald before he filed it that the downtown group participated in secret meetings, failed to reach a quorum needed to hold public sessions and talked and made decisions outside of meetings.

West will ask a Franklin County Superior Court judge to assess penalties  $500 for each known violation of the open meetings law  against its executive director and board members at the time.

He names former executive director Jerry Martinez, as well as former board members Gabriel Portugal, Kylie Grimes, Claudia Tapia, Alexia Estrada, Jose Iniquez and Christina Viera.

Its unclear what legal protection the employees and board members could have under the organizations charter documents that established the downtown authority.

The Herald reached out to Portugal and Grimes about the suit but did not hear back.

Dissolving a dysfunctional organization

The DPDA is the combination Main Street program-development authority thats been mostly funded by the city since its creation in 2010 to help lead downtown revitalization.

It operates independent of the city, although the city council is responsible with appointing its board members.

It used to put on some of the regions most popular events and programs, including Cinco de Mayo, the Fiery Foods Festival, the Pasco Farmers Market and Pasco Specialty Kitchen.

The Downtown Pasco Development Authority organized some of the regions most popular events and programs, including Cinco de Mayo, the Fiery Foods Festival, the Pasco Farmers Market and Pasco Specialty Kitchen. File/Tri-City Herald

But those responsibilities were turned over to Pasco after Martinez  the organizations third executive director in three years  stepped down from the job in 2023.

Now, the DPDA exists in name only while the Pasco City Council undergoes the process to dissolve it. A public hearing is set for 7 p.m. Monday, April 15, at city hall to gather feedback on the issue.

The organization has undergone a slow and precipitous fall from grace over its lifetime, beginning with the 2016 conviction of its former executive director, Michael Goins, who embezzled $140,000 over a two-year period.

Years later, a state audit scrutinizing the organization 2017-19 revealed the extent of its poor financial condition, saying it was at risk of not being able to meet financial obligations and that it lacked internal controls to ensure the proper use of public money.

A clear lack of financial management led to the ballooning of the 2022 Cinco de Mayo festivals budget, from $30,000 to $250,000. That included $42,000 to re-book performers for the events after erroneously canceling their appearances.

The violations laid out by West in his lawsuit were previously highlighted in a Feb. 1 accountability audit released by the Office of the Washington State Auditor.

The audit, which scrutinized activity and financial reports from January 2020 to December 2022, says the DPDA failed to publish its meeting agendas and that its meeting minutes lacked a significant record of business.

Meeting minutes were not available for nine meetings throughout that three-year period, and 11 executive sessions were held without reference to a state law allowing them to be closed to the public.

Its also unclear if a quorum was present for at least six meetings, a requirement under state law.

Authority leadership and management did not have an adequate understanding of state laws, including those that require open public meetings and filing annual reports with the state auditors office, the Feb. 1 audit determined.

The audit also detailed several other inadequate financial accounting practices that have contributed to the DPDAs downfall. That includes weaknesses in how it handled $630,000 in private grants it received to support people and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as $300,000 in payments that couldnt be properly accounted for.

No explicit details of fraud or criminal malfeasance on the part of the organization were included in the audit.

The auditor reached out to former DPDA board members, who all declined the opportunity to respond to their findings.

Despite plans to make the DPDA an independent and functioning organization at its inception, the city has been its largest subsidizer over its 14-year lifespan. Most recently, in 2023, it gave $120,000 to the chartered organization and promised more if it met certain incentives, which were never met.

On March 29, the city announced it had hired a forensic accounting firm to review the operations and practices of the DPDA in 2022, with the possibility of broadening out the investigation to include other years.
Pleasant Valley Manor will be privatizing its operations.

In an April 4 press release from Monroe County, the manors regulatory and fiscal challenges in the post-COVID pandemic healthcare environment were cited as the reason for the move.

The most significant challenge PVM has faced during the years leading up to and during the pandemic years was the ever-increasing cost to operate the facility, the press release said. Those costs which came in the form of goods, services, staffing and many new regulatory requirements, were not fully covered by the State and Federal reimbursement PVM received.

The release also stated that when COVID pandemic financial assistance ended in 2023, the funding gap significantly widened and the nursing home had to pay for most of those cost increases since they are not covered by State, Federal, or insurance reimbursements.

"Realizing the long term effects of the pandemic on the operation of PVM the Board authorized a number of changes during the last several years to control costs, while not affecting the quality of care provided our residents, the release said. Those measures while effective were not enough to compensate for the ever-increasing costs to operate.

Pleasant Valley Manor will be sold to Outcome Healthcare. The acquisition will be finalized at a later date.

One of the biggest problems for Pleasant Valley Manor is we were a standalone facility. Being a county facility, every cost that occurred especially with the escalating costs from the COVID times the last few years, we had to bear the full value of, Pleasant Valley Manor Administrator Drew Lutton told the Pocono Record. Whether it was increased staffing required by the (Department of Health) or whether it was all of the goods, products and services we buy, we had to bear 100% of the cost."

Lutton said that the end of COVID funding left such a big hole that the gap could not be bridged, even with increases over pre-COVID reimbursements.

So the decision to privatized PVM was purely a fiscal one, but it was based solely on the understanding that the company that came in had a great presence in Pennsylvania, New Jersey in the area get to healthcare, long term care, and rehab care as their main business, which this company does, and they would continue the traditions and the practices and even enhance PVM in the long run, said Lutton. So, the decision was made because primarily we just could not afford to pay the salaries, pay the benefits, cover all the cost to operate on the revenues that we receive which are controlled by the state and federal government.

Monroe County Commissioner and president of the PVM board Sharon Laverdure said that privatizing will help PVM by allowing the parent company to use its resources to help fund and maintain the facility.

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For instance when they buy 'X' number of dollars of food, its not as expensive as if you are only one single facility, said Laverdure. It makes a difference when you own several facilities.

According to Lutton, the Pleasant Valley Manor board hired a company to vet companies who were interested in taking over the manor, and Outcome Health was chosen to partner with the manor.

It depends on our residents population, our resident payer mix, our expenses for the period, a lot of variables so I cant comment on that, Lutton said when asked how much money the manor is expecting to save per year.

Lutton said that a legal formal transfer date has yet to be established for the manor, and that it will be several months down the road. Once that date does come, Outcome Health will be responsible for PVMs financial maintenance.

Lutton commended Monroe County for its support.

They have done everything they possibly can to keep PVM going and were one of the few remaining county homes in the state left out of all the many that have been around all those years, so I would like to just say that the county commissioners and the board, PVM board, has been remarkably helpful and supportive to us through this and we fully understand and agree with the decision that was made, said Lutton.

Laverdure said that Outcome Healthcare is hoping to retain the staff that PVM currently has, and that they respect them, understand the commitment that goes into what they do, and want to maintain the positive atmosphere currently present there.

Max Augugliaro is the public safety and government watchdog reporter at the Pocono Record. Reach him at MAugugliaro@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: Pleasant Valley Manor nursing home being sold by Monroe County
There's one more victim in the Prima Wawona bankruptcy and the collapse of the largest tree fruit-growing empire in the US.

Hundreds of workers in Cutler labored each year in the approximately 300,000 square-foot packinghouse and cold storage along Avenue 408 are now looking for jobs elsewhere.

Since the announcement about a month ago that various farmers had bought pieces of the former empire, residents of Cutler (population 4400) have wondered if the local "Wawona packing house would continue to pack tree fruit this season as it has for decadesnow with harvest only weeks away. Prima Wawona was once one of the nation's largest growers of peaches, plums, and nectarines.

In January of this year, the agricultural and fruit-growing and packing company sent a letter to its employees stating that people could be out of a job as early as March 12th.

Bankrupt Fresno-based Prima Wawona laid off 5,400 workers, including 3,750 seasonal workers, as of winter 2024 and prepared to sell 13,000 acres of farmland, mostly planted to peaches and nectarines that were packed in Reedley and Cutler.

Prima Wawona is the largest employer in the farmworker community of Cutler in Tulare County.

The Fresno Bee reported that much of the ranch property has now been sold, but not facilities like the Culter plant, the company's corporate headquarters, which is not owned by the Wall Street investment firm.

Private equity firm Paine Schwartz Partners took over Wawona Packing in 2017 and Gerawan Farming in 2019, creating Prima Wawona valued at $1 billion.

It has been downhill since. Prima Wawona combined the assets of two of Americas largest stone fruit producers, but as observers have reported, it has lost nearly all of its value since being acquired by a private equity firm. Bankruptcy followed this past fall.

The impact on the farmworker community has received less coverage.

In an interview last month on television, Tulare County Supervisor Eddie Valero, who represents the area, said, "My heart hurts for the people who have had to be let go of this job that they have.

For years, the packing plant in Cutler has provided many jobs, helped locals pay their mortgages, and put food on the table."It's going to have a dramatic impact on the lives and the families that surround the plant, on those who are deeply embedded in the community, " said Valero.

Prima Wawona is the largest employer in the farmworker community of Cutler in Tulare County.

Former employees at the Cutler packing house shared memories on Facebook recently, with some saying they had been working side-by-side with colleagues for over twenty years at the packing house at the edge of town.

One source with Moonlight Packing, one of the buyers reported in the Bee, says they will use the company's existing packinghouses, which pack fruit in Reedley and Sanger, to get the job done.Confirming the news, other local packers say workers from the Cutler plant have been applying elsewhere for work this season.

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The Employment Development Department announced two months ago that it has awarded $7 million to La Cooperativa Campesina de California (La Cooperativa), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping Californias farmworkers "achieve lasting prosperity and self-sufficiency through education, training, placement, and other supportive services." La Cooperativa will use grant funds to provide outreach, employment, and training services to farmworkers affected at Prima Wawona and other agricultural workers laid off throughout the State.

On the sales blockNow, an even more explicit signal that the packinghouse will stay idle during this stone fruit season comes with news that the big Cutler plant is for sale with local realtor Schuil and Associates.

It will be going on the market, confirms realtor Rick Schuil, although he could not yet offer details as of our deadline.

As of last month, over 90% of the land had been sold, with Bakersfield citrus grower Sun Pacific and Reedley-based Moonlight Companies combining to buy 5,000 acres for $91 million. Each has its own extensive packing operations.

Back in Cutler, the Wawona packing plant grew in importance.Brent Smittcamp, then the company's president, relocated the fruit packer from Clovis to Cutler in 2000, closer to the fruit trees and the workforce.

In 2006, according to press reports, Wawona tore down an old 60,000sf packing house and began construction on a new 180,000-square-foot facility in its place. They also added three cold storage rooms, new offices, and an all-new state-of-the-art packing line. At the same time, Smittcamp said, "We are currently farming about 3,800 acres, and our volume this year should be around 2.8 million packages."

He added, "Over the past three to five years, the company has planted quite a bit of acreage." The new orchards are now coming into production, so "we need a larger facility.

By 2012, an article in the Produce News said Wawona Packing Co. was  one of the larger grower-packer-shippers of stone fruit in California, with more than 6,500 acres in production, has grown considerably over the years since its founding in 1948.

The same article says that year, the company completed construction on five acres of ground-mounted solar panels generating nearly a megawatt of electrical power and broke ground on a 65,000-square-foot warehouse expansion scheduled for completion by the stone fruit harvest. The company also moved into sales of organic fruit in volume.

By 2017, Smittcamp announced that a New York-based private equity fund had invested in the Cutler, Calif.-based stone fruit and citrus grower-shipper Wawona Packing Co.

He told the Business Journal that Paine Schwartz Partners had been brought in as an equity partner. At the time, they said tree fruit acreage was 8500 acres, and their packing operation shipped more than 7 million cartons of tree fruit and citrus annually.

It is believed that Mr Smittcamp still owns the Cutler plant property. He could not be reached for comment.

For nearly 25 years, Cutler wasnt just the company's main packinghouse but also the corporate headquarters.

Now, it is neither.

Not that there is no opportunity.

California's smaller competitor, Georgia, saw an estimated 90% of their peach crop destroyed when temperatures across much of middle Georgia dipped below freezing for several days in March last year. In 2022, Georgias peach crop was worth $34 million. Meanwhile, according to data from retailers, the average price for California peaches in supermarket retail shops was $1.70 per pound in June 2023 - a significant increase from the average cost of $1.54 per pound during the same period in the previous year. California is the largest grower of peaches in the United States, producing about 70% of the total.

The juicy tree fruit of Central California is ripening, and workers will need to hand-pick it again in 2024. However, industry sources suggest that the breakup of the industry here into smaller entities makes it less likely that the big Cutler plant will be sold to a user who needs it soon.

Wawona Frozen Foods, a frozen fruit company headquartered in Clovis, is not affiliated with Prima Wawona.

This article originally appeared on Salinas Californian: Prima Wawona packing house in Cutler on the sales block, layoffs hit
Career and retirement planning used to be straightforward: You climbed the career ladder before leaving to enjoy a couple of twilight decades of retirement. It was a binary proposition  you were working until you werent.

Those days are as bygone as pension plans. Demographics and desire are reshaping the very idea of retirement  what it involves, when and how people do it. This is not your parents retirement plan. Societys infrastructure and attitudes have to adjust to this new world of work  and quickly.

While most Americans still want a traditional, full-stop retirement, it is a smaller majority than you might expect. According to a recent Harris Poll survey, 56% of Americans eventually want to leave the workforce. The rest are a mix: 30% want to partially retire (working part-time or consulting, for example), while 7% never plan to stop working and 6% dont know what they want to do.

About 1 in 5 Americans 65 and older were employed last year, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center report  nearly double the approximately 1 in 10 who still worked in the 1980s.

While most Americans still want a traditional, full-stop retirement, it is a smaller majority than you might expect.

The way we view retirement is changing

On the retirement issue, three distinct camps are emerging: The clean breakers (full retirement), the re-inventors (transition to part-time work) and the never-stoppers (no retirement).

Strikingly, according to our survey, the desire to fully retire is strongest among younger workers and diminishes the closer one gets to the actual end of ones career. So, while 63% of non-retired workers under the age of 34 look forward to a full retirement, that figure drops to 59% among those ages 35 to 54 and then plummets to 36% for those 55 and older.

Better pay, no job: High wages, 32-hour workweeks sound great, but there's a steep price

There is an immutable economic logic to this: Too many Americans dont feel financially ready to leave the workforce. We can see a new kind of job-lock  people unable to retire because they cant afford to do so.

Were 40 years into a massive shift in how people pay for retirement. In 1984, the number of Americans with defined contribution plans such as IRAs exceeded the number with pension-type plans for the first time, and were still grappling with what that means.

Potential workers and employers engaged at a job fair this month in Fort Pierce, Florida.

But theres something more at work here. Life expectancy has grown over time, casting the post-65 years in a different light.

Americans now think not only in terms of a protracted life span but also health span (how long youre not simply alive but healthy) and, yes, work span.

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Older people are working longer. Corporate America, take note.

What were once twilight years are looking brighter and longer. Suddenly, 65 no longer seems like the end point for work.

What does that mean for corporate America? Multigenerational work is here to stay, and todays companies need to harness the potential of not just three or four generations, but five.

Work-life balance is a life. We need to create better workplaces.

Leaning into the emerging multigenerational workforce  with five generations working side-by-side  will lead to higher output and economic growth. A 2020 study from the World Economic Forum and other researchers estimated that investing in this future will raise per-capita GDP by almost 19% over the next 30 years.

It makes sense intuitively: Older workers take a wealth of experience with them when they walk out the door, so retaining them is a plus. Modern business strategy dictates that a diversity of experience and views lead to stronger outcomes.

Some forward-looking companies are already gearing up to take full advantage of the gray-hued workforce of tomorrow. General Motors and Boeing have started return-ship programs, allowing older workers to return to their jobs and add value.

Other companies are looking for ways to retain older workers. Microsoft, for example, is keeping benefits largely stable even as older employees shift to part-time work, while Marriott offers more flexible scheduling. These case studies shouldnt be outliers; they are trailblazers.

The companies that fail to take advantage of expanding work spans are leaving value and money on the table. Relying on three or four generations alone to contribute is a thing of the past. Perhaps it is only a matter of time before chief longevity officers take their place in the C-suite.

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.

While the age of Americas presidential candidates is a hot-button issue in 2024, we should get used to our graying reality. Increased participation in society is a positive development, with older Americans bringing the perspective that millennials or Generation Z havent yet accumulated. Not only are baby boomers more experienced, but they also exhibit the lowest levels of burnout and highest levels of engagement at work.

As long as these older participants remain sharp and passionate about solving problems, a multigenerational America is a more robust society.

Who knows: Maybe in a few decades, people wont be so freaked out by septuagenarians running companies like JPMorgan Chase or Microsoft  or winning the White House.

Will Johnson serves as CEO of The Harris Poll, one of the worlds leading public opinion, market research and strategy firms.

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Can I retire now? Older people are working longer. It's good, actually
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Theres no upper age limit to travel, but you might be surprised to learn that the average age of adventure travelers has risen over the past few years. Much of this is due to more accommodating trips and better gear.

Adventure trips can be quite fulfilling, no matter how old you are but its all too easy to miss out. If youre an older traveler, like a retiree, you might want to put a couple of these more thrilling trips on your bucket list. You could have the experience of a lifetime. If nothing else, youll have another great story to share with your loved ones.

But before you start planning your first  or next  adventure trip, there are a few things to consider. Chief among them is the cost and whether or not theyre actually worth the money if youre on a retirement budget.

Find Out: 15 Cheap, Beautiful Places To Retire

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Adventure Trips Offer an Unforgettable Experience

Outdoor adventure trips are an amazing way to spend your time and money in retirement, said Chris Urban, certified financial planner (CFP), retirement income certified professional (RICP) and founder at Discovery Wealth Planning. I am a huge fan of spending money on experiences as these often lead to long-lasting memories, sometimes with family and friends.

Whether you go alone or with someone else, very little can quite beat the experience these trips can give you. And especially if youve been spending a lot of time indoors or hard at work, taking one of these trips in your retirement years could bring a good deal of personal fulfillment to your life.

Plus, traveling can have positive effects on your mental health. According to WebMD, it can reduce stress and help alleviate certain symptoms related to depression and anxiety.

See More: Hawaii on a Dime: 7 Crucial Tips to Live Frugally in the Aloha State

Retirees Have Better Options Now

Among the biggest deterrents to traveling is the lack of accessible options or accommodations. But things have changed a lot in recent years.

Today, there is far better infrastructure in place to remove many of the physical limitations of adventure travel, making it easier for retirees to participate. For example, platforms like Cloud of Goods allow individuals to rent mobility equipment  such as scooters and wheelchairs  and have them delivered to their destination, said Punsri Abeywickrema, founder and CEO of Cloud of Goods.

This alleviates some of the limitations and stress that have traditionally been associated with travel for older individuals, he said. There has also been a strong push to improve accessibility in airports, hotels, theme parks and more, allowing those with mobility issues to still enjoy their well-earned vacations.

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The Changes Arent Just Because of Improved Options

Ive noticed a definite shift in the adventure travel scene  more and more retirees are opting for ambitious, challenging and exotic trips, said Michael Donovan, travel expert and the co-founder of StayNewEngland.com. Theres no doubt improved gear and tailored offerings play a role, but I believe theres a deeper motivation at work.

Many retirees see this new chapter as a chance to finally tick off their bucket list, so theyre willing to invest time and money into making their travel dreams a reality, he said. In a way, retirement launches a second youth for some people. With more free time and disposable income, retirees can embark on the epic adventures theyve always imagined.

Retirement, Donovan said, isnt the end of an active lifestyle. It simply marks a transition into something new or different.

Many Older Americans Are in Better Health

Health plays a major role in a persons ability to travel and go on other adventures. These days, more retirees  especially those whove only recently retired  are in better health than older retirees and are looking to take advantage of that.

Right now, we are near the peak of the population turning 65 years old, often referred to as the Grey Tsunami. So, in absolute numbers, there are more retirees than ever before. And travel is at its peak in the first decade of retirement, said Jennifer Kirby, fiduciary financial advisor and managing partner of Talisman Wealth Advisors.

Many younger Boomers, Kirby said, are in better health than their older counterparts. This is largely due to them giving more attention to health and wellness throughout their lives. It also makes adventure trips more feasible.

There is often a sense of urgency to have adventure experiences while they are still physically capable, Kirby said. What we often see is that retirees frontload the expenses on this kind of travel for the first few years after they stop working and then the spending starts to drop until the very end of their lives when healthcare needs pick up.

Cost Is Still a Key (But Not Defining) Factor

According to Budget Your Trip, the average cost of a seven-day trip in the U.S. is $3,982 for two people. This includes accommodations, airfare, meals and local transportation. It doesnt, however, include tickets to things like ziplining, skydiving or water rafting.

That being said, you could still take an adventure trip if youre on a retirement budget. You might just need to plan your trip a little closer to home.

Even on a tight budget, retirees can still plan for adventurous travel  whether thats saving for a bigger international trip or planning for a unique experience closer to home, Abeywickrema said. These days, there are so many great resources that can allow older individuals to discover new destinations that may be just a short distance away.

Limiting how many trips you take can also help ensure you have the resources needed to have the experience of a lifetime.

Even on a relatively tight budget, adventure trips can still be worth it with the right financial strategies, said Ann Martin, director of operations of CreditDonkey. For example, limiting yourself to only one or two trips per year can be a good way to ensure you can see the world without blowing your budget. I also suggest putting aside a small portion of your monthly income in a high-yield savings account or other interest-earning account so you can grow a travel fund for yourself.

Costs To Consider With Adventure Trips

Among other things, the cost of travel is going to vary based on where youre going, how long youre going to be there, how many people are coming with you and what you want to get out of the trip. Keeping that in mind, here are a few adventure trips and what they might cost:

Northern Lights trip: Donovan said a roundtrip flight from the U.S. East Coast to Iceland costs around $400. Add on a campervan rental so that you have somewhere to stay and a means of transportation for around $50 a day and youve got most of your trip already sorted.

Everest Base Camp Trek: An all-expenses-included trek ranges from around $2,500 to $3,500, though you could end up spending more  or less  based on where you start.

Week-long cruise: A seven to 10-day cruise could cost around $1,500 per person, depending on factors such as destination, whether you need to fly into the port and cabin type.

Around the World cruise: According to CNBC, the starting price for one of these cruises, which lasts for about three years and spans all seven continents, is around $29,000.

Danube River cruise: A Danube River cruise costs anywhere from $2,231 to $10,290 for a weeklong experience that includes most of what you would need.

Smaller adventure trips: Whether youre into ziplining, white water rafting, kayaking or snorkeling, prices range quite a bit. Keep things local to save money or combine several options in a bundled tour.

African safari: Starting at around $150 a night (not including transportation or accommodations), you can do an African safari tour.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Retirees Are Spending Their Time and Money on Adventure Trips  Should You?
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has left for a working visit to Belarus, Azernews reports, citing the Foreign Ministry.

As part of the visit, the minister will attend a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the CIS countries, which will be held in Minsk on April 12.

Bilateral meetings of the foreign minister are also planned as part of the trip.




(Bloomberg) -- Samsung Electronics Co. is preparing to take the wraps off a $44 billion investment in US chipmaking as soon as next week, a signature project in Washingtons broader effort to bring semiconductor production back to America.

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The worlds biggest memory-chip maker plans to outline the project in Taylor, Texas, alongside Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, according to people familiar with the matter. Its secured more than $6 billion of US government grants for an investment outlay thats expanded significantly to a total of $44 billion over multiple years, the people said. The timing and details of the announcement could still change before theyre finalized, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing private matters.

The award is the latest in a spate of multibillion-dollar handouts from the Biden administration, which is using the 2022 Chips and Science Act to try and revitalize American chipmaking after decades of production shifting to Asia. The broader program is also intended to counter the technological rise of China, which is building up its own domestic semiconductor industry.

The Chips Act  which set aside $39 billion in grants plus $75 billion in loans and guarantees  has spurred well north of $200 billion in private semiconductor investments. Intel Corp. snagged nearly $20 billion in grants and loans. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.  the main chipmaker for Nvidia Corp. and Apple Inc.  got $11.6 billion. Its unclear if Samsung will get loan awards on top of the $6 billion-plus in government grants.

Samsungs project adds to a robust semiconductor ecosystem in Texas, including tens of billions of dollars of additional investment from Texas Instruments Inc. in its home state and Samsungs existing factory in Austin. Its not clear when the Taylor site will begin mass production, after a reported delay last year. Representatives for the company declined to comment.

The announcement next week will set off a monthslong due diligence period, during which Samsung and the Commerce Department will hammer out the final terms of their agreement. The money will then be disbursed as the project hits key construction and production milestones, with the potential for clawbacks if the firm falls short of its promise.

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The Social Security program is facing a long-term funding shortfall of $22.4 trillion, a problem that can be attributed to the aging population. Specifically, birth rates have fallen and life expectancies have lengthened since the post-World War II baby boom, and retirees are now increasing in numbers more quickly than workers.

The ratio of workers to beneficiaries has dropped from 8.6 in 1955 to 2.7 in 2024, according to the Social Security Administration. That's problematic because Social Security is primarily funded by a dedicated payroll tax. With fewer workers paying into the program and more seniors drawing benefits, expenditures are rising more quickly than revenue. That trend is unsustainable and will lead to benefit cuts without Congressional intervention.

The precise timing is uncertain, but the Board of Trustees believes the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) Trust Fund will be depleted by 2033. That trust fund is the source of benefits paid to retired workers, spouses, and survivors. Once depleted, payroll taxes would cover an estimated 77% of scheduled payments, so an automatic across-the-board benefit cut of 23% would be possible.

There are three straightforward options to solve the problem.

Tax increases could boost revenue for the Social Security program.

Benefit cuts could reduce spending for the Social Security program.

A combination of the first two solutions could resolve the issue.

The debate about which strategy is best has become a hot topic. That trend will probably intensify as the presidential election draws nearer.

The Republican Study Committee (RSC), a group that includes about 80% of House Republicans, recently published its budget for fiscal 2025. The report addresses Social Security reform, but the proposed fixes are vague and rely entirely on benefit cuts. That is a serious flaw.

Image source: Getty Images.

The Republican budget proposal lacks specific facts and figures

The budget submitted by the RSC correctly states that Social Security spending will grow at a tremendous pace over the next decade. Program expenditures are forecast to increase 60% by 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office. But the RSC budget would bring that figure down to 42% by eliminating $1.5 trillion in Social Security spending during that period.

The Republican Study Committee claims the proposed changes would not only stave off the 23% benefit cuts in the near term, but also make the Social Security trust fund sustainably solvent in the long term. Additionally, the report clearly states that the budget would not cut or delay benefits for seniors in or nearing retirement. However, there's a problem: House Republicans didn't back those claims with specific facts and figures.

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Instead, the RSC budget describes a few changes in vague language that is open to interpretation. The quote below comes directly from the 180-page report:

The RSC budget would make modest changes to the primary insurance amount (PIA) benefit formula for individuals who are not near retirement and earn more than the wealthiest PIA benefit factor. It would also make modest adjustments to the retirement age for future retirees to account for increases in life expectancy. Finally, for these individuals, it would limit and phase out auxiliary benefits for high income earners.

Unfortunately, the report doesn't explain what modifications might be made to the benefit formula, nor does it comment on how much full retirement age would increase. The report also fails to define "high income earners."

The Republican budget relies entirely on benefit cuts

The Republican Study Committee didn't provide enough detail in their budget to say for certain whether it would resolve Social Security's funding shortfall. However, most House Republicans clearly prefer benefit cuts to tax increases. I say that because the proposal mentions modifying the PIA formula and increasing full retirement age, both of which would amount to benefit cuts.

House Republicans in the past have proposed raising the full retirement age from 67 to 69, but that alone wouldn't solve Social Security's funding problem. Even if the full retirement age increased by two months per year starting in 2024 such that it reached 69 for workers who turn 62 in 2035, only 37% of the funding shortfall would be eliminated. That assessment comes from the Office of the Chief Actuary at the Social Security Administration.

That means House Republicans must see substantial cost savings in modifying the PIA formula because their proposal doesn't mention tax increases. In that context, there's a serious flaw in the RSC budget: It leans entirely on benefits cuts.

That's problematic because Democrats have been vocal in their opposition to benefit cuts, and a one-sided solution is highly unlikely to win approval in Congress. That said, Democrats have made the same mistake by leaning primarily on tax increases to shore up Social Security.

Ultimately, a sustainable solution will require bipartisan support, which means it will involve a combination of benefit cuts and tax increases. History supports that assumption. For example, when the Social Security program was overhauled in 1983, Congress approved changes that (1) cut benefits by gradually raising full retirement age from 65 to 67, and (2) increased taxes by gradually raising the Social Security payroll tax rate from 5.4% to 6.2%.

Those changes won Congressional approval with widespread support on both sides of the political aisle, including Joe Biden, a senator from Delaware at the time. I would expect a similar outcome this time around.

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The Social Security Changes Proposed by Republicans Have a Serious Flaw was originally published by The Motley Fool
Souza named chief growth officer at Alluvionic

Jason Souza has been named the chief growth officer at Alluvionic, bringing a wealth of experience in driving government strategies and emphasizing business development and execution.

Jason Souza

He joined the company last month with a mission to lead initiatives that significantly contribute to the organizations growth and success.

Prior to his current role, Souza served as the senior director (vice president) of training programs at national security solutions with Amentum (formerly PAE) in Orlando. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in overseeing multiple contracts, and was instrumental in expanding and securing new business opportunities.

Souza is a graduate of Park University, earning a Master of Arts in communications and leadership, and is a graduate of State University of New York with a bachelors in communications.

He complemented those degrees with executive leadership courses from University of California-Berkeley Center for Executive Education, Yale School of Management and Columbia Business School.

Souza retired from the U.S. Army as an officer with 24 years of services.

Alluvionic said Souzas leadership skills, strategic acumen and commitment to excellence make him an asset to Alluvionic, driving growth and innovation in government strategies and business development.

Alluvionic is headquartered in Melbourne.

To learn more about the company, go to alluvionic.com.

More Business Newsmakers: Florida Tech names Pericak as vice president of philanthropy

BRPH names Carp as general legal counsel

BRPH, a nationally ranked architecture, engineering and construction firm with 10 offices nationwide, recently named David Carp as its general legal counsel.

David Carp

Carp replaces Mason Williams, who is retiring this month after five years with the firm.

Carp comes to BRPH with more than two decades of legal and risk-management experience, including 13 years as general counsel for large corporations in the New York City area.

Career highlights include four years as general counsel for the U.S. parent company of the Wurth Group, the world's largest industrial distributor, with operations in 80 countries and more than 80,000 employees.

He also spent four years as general counsel for Compass, one of the nations largest real estate services and technology companies, with offices throughout the United States.

During his career, Carp has led negotiations with leading architecture, design and construction firms; presented at national conferences on legal and risk management topics; and was selected as a finalist for the General Counsel of the Year Award in the category of private companies with $1.0 billion-plus in revenue by a leading Northeast region business journal.

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We are pleased to welcome David Carp to BRPH, and feel fortunate to have found a general counsel with his caliber of experience and his energetic, collaborative approach, said Brian Curtin, CEO of BRPH Cos. His industry expertise in multiple areas of business law, risk management, the architecture, engineering and construction industry, and real estate is certain to be an asset to us and to our clients.

I am thrilled to join a team of mission-driven professionals who deeply prioritize collaboration, both internally and externally, Carp said. BRPHs technical expertise in architecture, engineering and construction across many of todays most important disciplines, including projects that help drive space exploration, is truly inspiring.

Carp earned a Master of Business Administration from New York University, Stern School of Business; a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law; and a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University.

He currently is undergoing the certification process for his CRM (certified risk manager) designation.

A past board member for the AHRC Foundation, he spent nine years serving this New York-based organization that serves children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To learn more about BRPH, go to BRPH.com

Houts joins Assisting Hands Home Care as community liaison

Susan Houts recently joined the staff of Assisting Hands Home Care, 1240 U.S. 1 in Rockledge, as its community liaison.

Susan Houts

Assisting Hands provides non-medical, hands-on, private-duty home care to assist clients with the activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, meal prep, light housekeeping and medication reminders. The goal is to keep people living safe and independently.

Houts joined Assisting Hands after spending the past few years serving within the senior care community in a variety of capacities.

Most recently, she was the office manager/marketing director for Coastal Occupational Therapy, which followed time as a freelance in communications with Simplifying Senior Living.

Houts also worked with Aging Matters in Brevard from 2019 to 2020, helping to coordinate volunteers, deliver meals and structure programs that provided funding for the agency throughout the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to all this work, Houts was a tenured faculty member at Eastern Florida State College - Palm Bay campus for 12 years, teaching public speaking and interpersonal communication.

A longtime Brevard County resident, Houts graduated from Rockledge High in 1995.

For more information on Assisting Hands, go assistinghands.com

If you have a Business Newsmakers item you'd like to publish, please email details to Wayne T. Price at wtpkansas@yahoo.com or contact him at 321-223-0230.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Alluvionic names Souza as chief growth officer
A display in the departure hall at Terminal 1 at Frankfurt Airport shows several flights as canceled. Lando Hass/dpa

The strikes at passenger checkpoints and at German airline Lufthansa have once again slowed the upward trend in passenger growth at Frankfurt Airport.

Fraport, the company that runs Germany's main aviation hub at Frankfurt Airport, reported about 4.6 million passengers in March, a 7.8% increase compared to the previous year, the company announced in Frankfurt on Friday.

However the figures are 17.6% below the growth level seen before the coronavirus pandemic in March 2019.

Almost 300,000 passengers were unable to travel via Frankfurt due to the strikes in March, it added.

In February, which also saw strikes lasting several days, the shortfall compared to 2019 was only 15%, up from 12.6% in January and only 6% in December.

For the current year, Fraport chief executive Stefan Schulte is targeting around 61 million to 65 million passengers at Germany's largest aviation hub.

This means that the pre-crisis level of more than 70 million passengers remains out of reach this year.

Meanwhile, cargo business at Frankfurt Airport increased again in March.

Around 178,900 tons of freight and airfreight were handled at the airport, a 6.3% increase compared to the same month in 2023.
A trailer from logistics company DB Schenker is loaded onto a train at the seaport together with other trailers. Politically uncertain times are a bad omen for the export-dependent German economy and a study recommends that companies adapt their strategy. Jens Buttner/dpa

Politically uncertain times are a bad omen for the export-dependent German economy and a study recommends that companies adapt their strategy.

According to the Prognos Institute, an economic research and consulting firm, the German export industry should prepare itself for a permanent weakening of globalization.

A revitalization of multilateral global cooperation in economic policy is unlikely, write the foreign trade experts at the consultancy firm.

"Europe and especially Germany have benefited from globalization and the prevailing economic order for decades. At the moment, however, it looks as if the signs for cross-border cooperation point to stagnation at best," the firm wrote in a statement announcing the study.

A partial reversal of economic globalization is a realistic scenario, the experts stated.

The risks and potential consequential damage for companies and economies in Europe are enormous, especially for Germany. The institute estimates that around a third of German value added is currently exported.

In view of growing geopolitical tensions, the authors point out that although the rest of the European Union is the most important sales market, dependence on China for individual products such as laptops is very high.

The study commissioned by the Bavarian Industry Association (vbw) cites the decline in exports to Russia since the attack on Ukraine in 2022 as a warning example.

However, Prognos estimates that a complete decoupling of the German economy from China and other potentially risky locations in the short term would lead to the loss of a large proportion of current sales and procurement markets.
There is a grille in front of one entrance to KaDeWe before the store opens. Christophe Gateau/dpa

The major Thai developer, Central Group, has taken over the property that is home to Berlin's iconic KaDeWe department store following an agreement with the previous, insolvent owner Signa Prime Selection, Central said on Friday.

The Thai group is also considered to be among the leading candidates bidding to fully take over the whole KaDeWe Group, including the retail business itself, according to trade experts.

Central currently holds a 50.1% stake in the group, while 49.9% belong to the Signa Group owned by Austrian businessman Rene Benko, which is in financial difficulties.

We are pleased to add KaDeWe Berlin to Central Groups historic flagship luxury store real estate portfolio," Central Group chief executive Tos Chirathivat said.

"The additional capital investment demonstrates our familys commitment to the KaDeWe Group, our loyal customers, employees, and business partners in Europe," he said according to a press release.

"We will continue our efforts to find the best possible solution with all parties involved to allow our department stores to return to

normal operation  better and stronger than before, and as soon as possible.

According to the statement, Central "remains in talks and ... is optimistic of reaching an agreement" to acquire further assets and begin "an orderly exit from the insolvency."

Until a few months ago, Signa owner Benko was considered a multibillionaire, with the US magazine Forbes estimating the 46-year-old's fortune at $6 billion at the beginning of 2023.

Since the end of December, however, a whole series of companies from Benko's Signa Group have filed for insolvency.

Benko's convoluted company empire has a portfolio of prestigious assets in Germany alongside KadaWe, including the Elbtower in Hamburg and the department store chain Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof, which is also insolvent.
Photo Illustration by Thomas Levinson/The Daily Beast/Getty

When the questionably leveraged company that rescued Donald Trump with a last-minute $175 million court bond insured itself with its own parent company, it raised concerns about how the company was playing with its finances.

But now, as even more details come out about that parent companyparticularly that its based in the Cayman Islands, a notorious tax haventhe concerns are just piling up.

Former industry regulators and investigators told The Daily Beast that Knight Specialty Insurance Company being financially backed by a firm based in the Cayman Islands should raise eyebrows at the New York AGs officeparticularly because companies frequently organize in the Cayman Islands not just to avoid taxes, but also to minimize visibility into its business practices, avoid more stringent U.S. regulations, and make liability harder should things go wrong.

Trumps $175 Million Bond Is Even Shadier Than It Looks

All of those concerns could come into play if the New York Attorney General has to chase the company down for the money Trump currently owes for committing bank fraud.

This just stinks to high heaven, said Dave Jones, who oversaw the nations largest insurance market as Californias insurance commissioner for seven years until 2018.

Taken in its totality, this dog does not hunt. Along every step of the way, this purported bond is problematic. Its just one issue after another that calls into question whether this bond could ever possibly satisfy the judgment, said Jones, whos now the director of the Climate Risk Initiative at University of California Berkeley.

Former regulators described a potential worst-case scenario: Trump loses his bank fraud case on appeal and refuses to pay, the insurance company cant actually come up with the money, and the New York Attorney General runs into problems chasing after a second company that never explicitly promised to pay this particular court judgmentand is based in a little-regulated foreign jurisdiction in the Caribbean Sea.

The risk here is the company will not have the liquidity to pay on the bond when demanded, and the beneficiary of this bond, the New York AG, may not have a direct claim against the reinsurer, said former New York Department of Financial Services superintendent Maria Vullo. That the reinsurer is in the Cayman Islands compounds this issue as it is a non-U.S. jurisdiction, which makes collection very difficult.

The deal that spared Trump the embarrassment of having the New York AG start snatching the real estate tycoons properties bears all the hallmarks of todays complicated nexus of finance and lawa puzzling maze thats designed to slow down the wheels of justice and frustrate lawyers.

Story continues

Theres the wealthy former president whose potentially doomed properties in question are all over the United States and were once owned by New York City entities, until those shell companies relocated to MAGA-friendly Florida.

Former President Donald Trump speaks as he arrives at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Alyssa Pointer/Reuters

Then theres his rescuer, KSIC, which is run out of a nondescript corporate white box of a building in Los Angeles, California, but is officially based inside a two-story gray house in Wilmington, Delaware.

The similarly named Knight Insurance Company LTD is a different story. For starters, the company is limited in the sense that its owned by a select group of peoplemostly billionaire financier Don Hankey, his family members, and a former software developer named Amit Bharatkumar Shah. It was merged in 2020 with its own parent company, according to a Delaware examination obtained by The Daily Beast.

Its been little over a week since Trumpafter struggling to find a surety firm willing to take on a half-billion-dollar riskmanaged to score a deal with an insurance company run by a billionaire MAGA supporter with a sordid reputation for predatory car loans.

But since then, red flags have been popping up at every turn.

Knight Specialty Insurance Company is now under a microscope. State court clerks initially rejected the paperwork for being too vague. Then, New York AG Letitia James questioned whether KSIC is even good for the money. The Daily Beast documented how the companys financial statements reflect it has only $138 million in surplus, meaning that its Trump bond alone vastly surpasses the state-regulated 10 percent cap by promising to pay a mind-boggling 127 percent of its dedicated reserves.

Earlier this week, The Daily Beast additionally revealed that KSIC hasnt even subjected itself to a voluntary review by a quasi-state New York entity that would show it meets financial stability eligibility standards. But perhaps most alarming of all, the bond contract doesnt actually promise it will pay the money if the former president loses his $464 million bank fraud case on appeal.

And yet, a closer look at the companys corporate structure and its internal business deals raises even more questions, ones that touch on a highly technical and largely obscure corner of the insurance market called reinsurance.

Reinsurance is a duplicative term. It refers to the way insurance companies insure themselves, hedging their bets after taking on a ton of risk by making promises to pay policies then investing that money in stocks and bondsknowing full well that the company would have to pay out huge sums of money someday. In effect, it becomes a simple way for insurance companies to clear liabilities off the books and free up other funds to form a surplus, wiggle room they can rely on when catastrophe hits and policyholders all demand to get paid or when investments underperform.

New York AG Questions if $175 Million Bond Insurer Can Save Trump

That surplus isnt just breathing room allowing CEOs to sleep at night. Its also what state insurance regulators look at when deciding whether or not an insurance company can keep operating legally. If the breathing room gets too tight, regulators will pull an insurers license for running the risk of being insolvent.

On the other hand, reinsurance can also be a way to game the market.

Captive reinsurance is an industry term that describes how a company can push off its liabilities by finding the most unlikely of companies to take on this ominous burden: an affiliated version of itself.

The whole arrangement can make experienced fraud investigators cringe.

Tom Gober is a forensic accountant and certified fraud examiner who previously did work with the FBI and frequently appears as a witness in court, one who specializes in reviewing the financial integrity of reinsurance companies and spots if theyve been cooking the books. He told The Daily Beast that the Knight situation should make regulators more than concerned.

The Caymans are widely recognized as a secrecy jurisdiction. If you called the regulator in the Caymans and asked, Can you tell me if Knight reinsurance has enough to cover these claims? Their laws require total confidentiality. Why? he asked.

In my professional opinion, all you really have to know is that you dont know. Its not transparent and it ought to be. They have less regulation and zero transparency. Thats all I need to know, he said.

Gober explains reinsurance gone wrong this way: Consider a person who has a $300,000 mortgage, but the bank balks when they want to borrow another $100,000. Now imagine that person claims they loaded off most of their debt to another persononly to have the bank find out the other person was their 1-year-old child.

One insurance regulator, who spoke to The Daily Beast on condition of anonymity, questioned whether the company that rescued Trump is playing a shell game with its parent companyknowing full well that no New York or Delaware insurance regulator would be any the wiser.

In this case, KSIC is already being criticized for being potentially undercapitalized with only $138 million in surplus while taking on an even greater amount in Trumps bond alone. But its sworn financial statements, obtained by The Daily Beast, reveal that it hasnt just offloaded some liability to its parent company; its offloaded much more liability than even the surplus it purports to have.

According to the latest figures issued Dec. 31, 2023, KSIC has moved $323 million in liabilities off its books to three firms: its parent company KIC and two sister companies, Knight Insurance Company SPC FBO Hankey Re, and Knight Insurance Company SPC FBO Wilshire Re.

Former President Donald Trump attends a campaign rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Brian Snyder/Reuters

By comparison, KSIC has only managed to move $20 million to well-known reinsurers with a proven track record, like Swiss Re, the W. R. Berkley Corporation, and others.

Why would you choose to send virtually all of your reinsurance to your own three companies in the Caymans? Thats like moving money from one pocket to another. The big question is: Do the Cayman affiliates have $323 million in liquid assets to honor these claims to Knight Specialty? If not, youve got problems, Gober said.

That total, which amounts to nearly a third of a billion dollars, isnt some nebulous risk the company might very well avoid entirely. As Gober explained, that figure represents the rock bottom estimate of the claims the insurance company has promised to payvalued at the concrete present dollar value. Trying to push that risk off to a big name firm would be no different than taking out a regular insurance policy. The company would have to show it has collateral and prove it has assets to back it up.

If its not affiliated, Im not concernedespecially in the world of reinsurance. If you cede to a legitimate independent company with its own money, its likely legitimate, Gober added. Looking at their list of reinsurers, note the traditional, independent ones are authorized and unaffiliated and have very small amounts. The big money is with their own affiliates in the Caymans.

As several sources noted to The Daily Beast, the bulk of the liabilities were moved to companies that are affiliated, unauthorized, and based in the Cayman Islands. The fact that theyre affiliated within the same umbrella of corporations is a red flag, because it opens the door to self-dealing.

But the fact that theyre unauthorized shows that theyre not regulated by the standard-setting and state government-assembled National Association of Insurance Commissionershence why they dont even have the accepted NAICs code assigned to trusted firms.

Of course, theres also the fact that the companies are all based in a tropical paradise roughly the size of Marthas Vineyard in Massachusetts.

The Cayman Islands refers to a self-governing British territory made up of essentially underwater mountain peaks, western offshoots of the mountains on the Cuban Sierra Maestra. The trio of islands lie just south of Cuba and boast the highest standard of living in the regiona natural consequence of billionaires stashing money there because the state doesnt charge income taxes. It should come as no surprise that Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos sails his megayacht Koru under a Cayman flag. In 2021, the Tax Justice Network ranked it as the No. 2 best tax haven in the world, scoring a perfect 100 but losing to the British Virgin Islands.

The Cayman Islands also have their own courts, which is where the New York AG might have to go to get the $175 million she was promised if KSIC doesnt honor the bond it completed for Trump.

Jones, the director of the Climate Risk Initiative at UC Berkeley, thinks that could be a challengeand maybe even an insurmountable one. He recalled facing a similar situation when he was the top insurance regulator in California, where the state had secured a judgment against a French company, only to have experts tell his department that the fight would be long and fruitless.

What the New York AG must be thinking is, What recourse do I have in Cayman Island courts? If I get a judgment against the bond, even if I sue the reinsurer, can I enforce that judgment in a Cayman Island court? Maybe, maybe not. It raises a whole other level of complexity, he said.

Donald Trump Posts $175M Bond in New York Civil Fraud Case

And in reality, its even worse than that. Trumps bond only came from KSIC. And while the smaller firm cleared some of its books by saddling its parent company with liability, reinsurance agreements exist to keep an insurance company alive. Theres nothing in the bond filed in court that explicitly states the larger parent company will swoop in to pay New York on Trumps behalf.

Its not clear she'll have recourse against reinsurer if the bond issuer doesn't pay, Jones said. One potential problem is that typically policyholders who have a claim against an insurance company dont have a claim against the reinsurance that's being provided to the insurance company, unless theres a cut-through provision in the reinsurance contract.

But we dont know that, because neither KSIC nor its parent company have explained the exact terms of their Trump deal. Questions sent to the company went unanswered Thursday.

Even if there is a cut-through provision, theres an issue of the practicality of enforcing that in the Caymans, and whether the reinsurer is adequately capitalized itself, Jones said.

But that, too, is hard to prove.

Companies in the Caymans arent required to submit sworn financial statements to 50 state regulators every year, nor are they forced to open their books to state regulators. So while KSIC allowed certified fraud examiners with Delawares insurance department to conduct a full scope examination of the company in 2016 and 2019and is due for another one this yearits convenient reinsurance arrangement has allowed it to shove a ton of liability to a company thats totally outside U.S. regulators line of sight.

Theres a reason why some insurers go to the Cayman Islands. Their perspective is that their regulations are lax when it comes to these requirements, Jones said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, listens to an interview question at his office in West Jordan, on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024.

In a rare moment of bipartisanship, both Democrats and Republicans united in expressing frustration during a Wednesday hearing about the Department of Educations credibility crisis over its mishandling of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms.

Decision day is less than a month away for would-be college students, and many students who filled out the FAFSA still dont know if they can afford to attend university.

Some students cannot complete the form at all, said Utah Rep. Burgess Owens, chair of the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, at the hearing. Unfortunately, this may only be the tip of the iceberg.

The Department of Education planned to launch new FAFSA forms after Congress passed the bipartisan FAFSA Simplification Act in 2020 to make it easier to fill out the paperwork, which unlocks tens of billions in aid for eligible students.

But the rollout, originally expected in October 2023, was pushed back to December the same year. But even after the new forms were finally rolled out, families continued to face technical issues related to uploading, accessing and correcting mistakes on their forms.

Colleges and universities were also late in receiving students Institutional Student Information Record, which determines the amount of aid an applicant is eligible for. In early March, when the federal agency finally began sending this pertinent information, the data was riddled with calculation errors, impacting about 200,000 students, who already received their inflated financial aid packages.

In Utah, 13,523 forms have been submitted this year, a nearly 20% decrease from last year, according to the National College Attainment Networks data. Nationally, this years submissions are more than 27% lower compared to the previous academic year.

Last month, the Government Accountability Office launched an investigation into the Education Departments mishandling of the FAFSA rollout.

FAFSA: What went wrong?

Owens, who represents Utahs 4th District, told the Deseret News the congressional hearing was productive. FAFSA has been around for 32 years. Many of us have gone through that, many of us have had our kids go through that, he said of his colleagues. So theres a sense of empathy.

During the hearing, he said the series of delays and errors arent victimless crimes, noting the anxiety and frustration students, families, education institutions and states feel because of the federal departments failures.

Directing his first question to Justin Draeger, president and CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, Owens asked why the Education Department continues to downplay the problems with FAFSA despite concerns from advocacy groups and experts.

Story continues

Draeger said he, too, raised his worries about FAFSA missing deadlines early on and working without a roadmap in place. He urged the committee to tap into Congress oversight function to attain answers from the Education Department, which faces a crisis of credibility.

Owens later told the Deseret News his committee plans to question Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, who recently wrote a letter to governors encouraging them to ask schools to postpone financial aid decisions, as well as Federal Student Aid CEO Richard Cordray. The Utah congressman pointed to Cordrays lack of experience for the job, considering his former employment as the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Draegar said his organization of financial aid professionals conducted a poll in recent weeks and found a good number of institutions who are unsure whether they will be able to ... send aid offers before May 1, which is the traditional date by which schools ask students to decide where theyll be attending.

A lot of schools have already pushed that date back, he said.

Mark Kantrowitz, president of Cerebly, a consulting company for web page design, student financial aid, Artificial Intelligence, and other technical fields, said the agencys overly sunny responses didnt acknowledge the deeply problematic issues. He compared responses akin to rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.

Kantrowitz, who was responsible for developing the first online FAFSA forms in 1996, pointed to the Education Departments latest announcement, where they said they will start reprocessing the 20% of incorrect records by May 1. He said he has recommended that schools push the decision day to June 1.

Low income students most hurt by FAFSA delay

Owens asked Rachelle Fieldman, vice provost of enrollment at the University of North Carolina, about the kinds of students most hurt by the Education Departments mismanagement.

She said low income students who need to know whether they can afford school are more affected. I worry most honestly about a student in say, rural North Carolina whos heard all their life that college is out of their reach, said Fieldman. We cant get them the document that proves they can and we lose out on that talent.

During his interview, Owens said the Biden administration, including Cordray, has prioritized student loan forgiveness month after month. The latest plan, unveiled Monday, is set to help 30 million borrowers with their student debt. To date, the White House has approved $146 billion in student debt payouts.

Meanwhile, college enrollment is down and smaller institutes are the ones likely to bear the brunt of this loss, he said. The Republican congressman acknowledged Utah universities like Brigham Young University and the University of Utah are solid and established and will be able to withstand this turbulence. Still, vocational and trade schools as well as technical institutions will be most hurt. They dont know what the next days going come down to, he added.

In the past, Owens has championed technical training over typical four-year universities. Higher education is a very costly process, so were now looking at how do we make sure that every child that comes out is pursuing their dream.

Out of all demographics, its the first-generation low to moderate-income families that need a helping hand the most, he said, before posing a question: What exactly is the Department of Education for?

They are supposed to give us the most solid, intelligent and competitive kids in the world, Owens said. Theyre supposed to make sure those who are born poor dont stay poor because they can raise themselves through the system. Theyre failing. The billions of dollars we give them to give loans, they cant even get that out.
Every day, already forgotten defenders of Armenians pop up on the vastness of social networks, in particular X social platform, says Day.az correspondent. The last on this list was the Chairman of the Bundestag Foreign Policy Committee, Michael Roth, who again spoke about the endless suffering of the Armenians. Remembering that the time had come to prove his loyalty to his masters, the German politician again duplicated the main points of Armenian propaganda, including the mythical ethnic cleansing, which only Armenians and the politicians bought by them see throughout the world.





Let's start with the fact that this is not ethnic cleansing for one simple reason. The Garabagh Armenians were given a choice. The fact that they decided to go to Armenia was only their choice. They also had a path to reintegration, which was offered by Azerbaijan. But the Armenians thought that they would be better off in Armenia.





But, of course, speaking about the suffering Armenians, he did not remember the million Azerbaijanis who were expelled from their lands more than 30 years ago. But the Azerbaijanis did not have such a choice; no one gave it to them. And for this reason, the words of the German politician are real hypocrisy. After all, it is obvious that he is only interested in Armenians, despite the fact that he is trying to present this as a defense of human rights.





It should be noted that Michael Roth has very low authority in Germany itself, and his pro-Armenian posts are criticized by ordinary Germans. After all, the average German cares little about the fictitious problems of the Armenians. They are more interested in how well the politicians elected by the people protect their interests.





And the German government is very likely not happy with Roths inclination to comment on issues of international politics. Back in 2020, he accused Poland and Hungary of being undemocratic, and also called Budapest anti-Semitic. Which led to an international scandal. And of course, the German Ambassador to Hungary had to answer for this.





This is the level of today's defenders of Armenians. Absolutely no recognition in their countries, and in international politics they only lead to scandals and unnecessary problems.





Politicians like Roth create problems, first of all, for Germany itself, whose interests he must protect first of all. Having sold himself to the Armenian lobby, Michael Roth says and does what his masters instruct him to do. Even if it goes against German interests. The conflict of interest is obvious, but despite this, unfortunately, in Germany this approach is acceptable.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The U.S. and U.K. will begin restricting the trade of new Russian-origin metals  including aluminum, copper and nickel  on global metal exchanges and in derivatives trading.

The announcement is meant to follow up on the Group of Seven nations' commitment in February to reduce Russias revenues from metals as its invasion into Ukraine has dragged on for more than two years.

Russia is a key exporter of metals like aluminum, steel and titanium  but British and American officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the announcement, said the economic impact from the ban would be negligible for consumers and producers.

The intent is to limit Russia's revenues from metals, they say, as metals have earned the nation $40 billion in the past two years, according to British officials.

Our new prohibitions on key metals, in coordination with our partners in the United Kingdom, will continue to target the revenue Russia can earn to continue its brutal war against Ukraine, said Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in a news release.

By taking this action in a targeted and responsible manner, we will reduce Russias earnings while protecting our partners and allies from unwanted spillover effects," she said.

The officials said new Russian metals will not be allowed to be traded on the exchanges, including the London Metal Exchange and Chicago Mercantile Exchange. However, metals produced before midnight Saturday in London will be permitted.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. and EU have levied sanctions on Russias biggest banks and its elite, frozen the assets of the countrys Central Bank located outside the country and excluded its financial institutions from the SWIFT bank messaging system.

The U.S. and U.K. have also previously sanctioned Russian gold, gas and diamonds.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Tax Day is upon us, have you filed your taxes already?

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and GECU has partnered up with over 11 local high schools to provide those last-minute filers with free tax assistance.

These volunteers are students that are IRS-certified, trained and can offer the services in English and Spanish, according to the news release by GECU.

We are proud to continue our 12-year partnership with the Coalition for Family Economic Progress, empowering our community with free tax preparation services through the VITA program, said Ruby Alvarez, vice president of GECU Community Development. Together, weve helped residents save millions in tax preparation fees and secure vital funds for essentials like groceries, car payments, and savings.

There are more than 24 locations throughout El Paso and Las Cruces.

To find a location closest to you and what documents are needed, you can visit the VITA website here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Westinghouse signs MOU with 17 Bulgarian Suppliers (Photo: Business Wire)

Suppliers to Support AP1000 Deployment at Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant and Globally

SOFIA, Bulgaria, April 12, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Westinghouse Electric Company today signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with 17 significant Bulgarian suppliers to support the upcoming AP1000 nuclear projects at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant site in northern Bulgaria, and other projects throughout the region. This milestone is a result of ongoing engagement with local suppliers following the Westinghouse Supplier Symposium held in February 2024 with Bulgarian companies.

The signed MOUs outline the potential for manufacturing of key components, including large structural modules, cranes, heat exchangers and pressure vessels, as well as providing various engineering, transportation, consulting and construction services. The suppliers are Atomenergoremont JSC; Bulmachinery Enterprises Ltd.; Bureau Veritas Bulgaria; Centralna Energoremontna Baza EAD; ELIA AD; Energoremont-Galabovo AD; Himmash JSC; Industrial Parts Ltd.; KMC JSC; Kranostroene Engineering LTD; MTG-Dolphin PLC; PODEMCRANE AD; Tia Logistics LTD; TM INOX Ltd.; Biomashinostroene AD; Bularmex-IK JSCo; and Micromet AD.

"Ensuring high localization of work on the AP1000 project at Kozloduy remains a crucial objective," said Petyo Ivanov, Executive Director of Kozloduy NPP New Built Company. "We celebrate todays announcement and these impressive local suppliers, whose partnerships represent another step toward bringing additional advanced, nuclear technology online in Bulgaria and emphasize the economic impact that the project will have for our country and its people. We expect these Bulgarian companies to become a vital part of the Westinghouse worldwide supply chain, more specifically for all their European new built projects."

"Westinghouse has a robust supply chain network across the world, and we are pleased to further expand that with additional, experienced and local Bulgarian suppliers to support the successful delivery of two AP1000 reactors at the Kozloduy site," said David Durham, President of Westinghouse Energy Systems. "Growth of our local and qualified supplier network in addition to the critical progress we are making on our front-end engineering and design contract for this project are important steps that help us to pave the way to bring a clean energy future to Bulgaria for generations to come."

Westinghouse was awarded a front-end engineering and design contract with Kozloduy NPP-Newbuild project for its AP1000 technology in June 2023. In October 2023, Westinghouse signed MOUs with five other Bulgarian suppliers for Kozloduy and other European projects, including for the manufacture of instrumentation and controls (I&C) systems, radiation monitoring systems and various services.

The AP1000 reactor is the only operating Generation III+ reactor with fully passive safety systems, modular construction design and the smallest footprint per MWe on the market. In the U.S., at the Vogtle site in Georgia, one AP1000 unit is in commercial operation while a second unit is projected to come online during the second quarter of 2024. Four AP1000 reactors are currently setting operational performance and availability records in China with eight additional reactors under construction. It has been selected for the nuclear energy programs in Poland, Ukraine and Bulgaria, and is also under consideration at multiple other sites in Central and Eastern Europe, the UK, India and North America.

Westinghouse Electric Company is shaping the future of carbon-free energy by providing safe, innovative nuclear and other clean power technologies and services globally. Westinghouse supplied the worlds first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957 and the companys technology is the basis for nearly one-half of the world's operating nuclear plants. Over 135 years of innovation makes Westinghouse the preferred partner for advanced technologies covering the complete nuclear energy life cycle. For more information, visit www.westinghousenuclear.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and X.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240412359692/en/

Contacts

media@westinghouse.com
A new restaurant has opened its first location in the state at Nebraska Crossing shopping mall in Gretna.

Kong Dog celebrated its grand opening Friday with free Kong Dogs for the first 200 customers.

The business is located in the space formerly occupied by Auntie Annes.

Kong Dogs specialty is Korean corn dogs, a snack that surged in popularity in South Korea in the early 2000s. It offers a rainbow of customizable flavors, from fruity pebbles to hot Cheeto coating your choice of mozzarella or meat  all on a stick.

The franchise also features Boba Tea, also known as Bubble Tea, which is a flavored milk tea containing tapioca balls.

Kong Dog rose in popularity, in part, due to its social media strategy, with more than 770,000 TikTok likes on the companys page. Cheese pull videos alone have garnered more than 14 million views.

The company capitalized on this popularity by introducing fundraising opportunities for charities known as Stretch for a Change, where individuals can host a fundraiser with Kong Dog, with 10% of the proceeds allocated to the organizers chosen charity.

Kong Dog has locations in seven other states: Massachusetts, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Virginia, New Jersey, Rhode Island and North Carolina. Additionally, it plans 37 new locations across the U.S.

The Nebraska Crossing store is open from 11 a.m. to the malls closing time of 8 p.m. daily.

15 great places for food in Nebraska Chances 'R' Black Crow The Chocolate Bar The Pour House Ole's Big Game Steakhouse Steel Grill Davey's Tavern Back Alley Bakery Bonzai Beach Pizza Hollywood Candy Rowdy's Steakhouse Sehnert Bakery Globe Chophouse Genoa Food Co. Monroe Tavern Bar and Grill
Avelo Airlines returns next month to the Colorado Springs Airport.

The Houston-based, low-fare carrier will resume its twice-weekly, nonstop service May 23 from the Springs to the Hollywood-Burbank Airport, outside Los Angeles, Avelo said this week.

Flights will take place on Sundays and Thursdays via Boeing 737 aircraft, the carrier said. Introductory one-way fares will start at $90 and can be purchased at aveloair.com; flights can be booked through Sept. 1.

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Avelo, which launched its nonstop service in May 2023 at the Colorado Springs Airport, took a seasonal break starting Jan. 7; a spokeswoman said at the time that the pause reflected a not-surprising slowdown in demand during the winter, but that the carrier fully planned to resume service in the spring.

We are excited to kick off the summer travel season with the return of Avelo Airlines nonstop seasonal service to Los Angeles/Hollywood-Burbank, Greg Phillips, the Colorado Springs Airports aviation director, said in a news release. This route will provide Colorado Springs travelers easy and convenient access to sunny beaches and the greater Los Angeles area from COS.

Rich Laden, The Gazette
Immigrants stand outside buses with their belongings in large bags during an encampment sweep in January 2024 in Denver. El Paso Countys Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, will consider a resolution authorizing litigation against the state of Colorado, challenging state laws that stop local governments from cooperating with the federal government in certain matters of immigration.
Colorado Springs will pay $10 million to settle a breach of contract dispute with the contractor it hired in 2018 to upgrade the city's oldest water treatment plant.

A notice filed in El Paso County district court on Tuesday states both parties entered into a settlement resolving claims contractor Myers and Sons Construction brought in late 2020, alleging the city breached the parties' construction contract to perform upgrades to the Phillip H. Tollefson Water Treatment Plant on Mesa Road. The agreement also settles a counterclaim Colorado Springs filed in 2021 alleging the contractor breached contract.

The Colorado Springs City Council approved the settlement amount on its consent agenda during the board's regular meeting Tuesday. Items on the consent agenda are considered as a whole and passed by the council with one vote and no discussion.

The settlement avoids a jury trial that was scheduled to begin April 24.

"The settlement amount will not impact Springs Utilities' ability to prioritize and accomplish needed work within our appropriated budget and financial objectives for 2024," Jennifer Jordan, a spokeswoman for the city enterprise, said in a written statement this week.

Myers and Sons' Colorado office in Brighton did not return The Gazette's call requesting comment. Attorneys for both the construction company and the city did not return emails seeking comment.

Myers and Sons sued Colorado Springs in El Paso County district court Oct. 2, 2020. The company claimed in an 11-page complaint Colorado Springs Utilities breached its March 26, 2018, agreement for work with the contractor in several ways.

The contractor alleged the city failed or refused to pay Myers and Sons its full amount under the contract  $30.9 million after change orders, according to court documents.

The lawsuit also claimed, among others, Colorado Springs Utilities failed to issue and approve change orders; "disregarded or disputed" most of Myers' requests for payment related to interruptions and changes to project work that increased contractor costs, such as city-caused delays and impacts from COVID-19; and "wrongfully suspend(ed), then terminat(ed)," Myers and Sons in September 2020, when its work to upgrade the water treatment plant was more than 90% complete.

The project was the first phase of planned upgrades to the plant that was commissioned in 1942 and expanded in the 1960s and 1980s. Jordan said work included building a new pre-treatment building and auxiliary buildings, reconfiguring drying beds that dewater sludge, and a new raw water vault.

Upgrades to the plant are part of a broader effort to optimize local water supplies and increase the redundancy of Colorado Springs' water system, she said.

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The city's action to terminate Myers and Sons in 2020 prevented the contractor from completing its work, the company said in its lawsuit.

"Myers has incurred additional charges, extra work, impacts and delays in an effort to complete its work on the project without any resolution by (Colorado Springs Utilities)," the lawsuit stated.

In a 45-page amended counterclaim Colorado Springs filed April 27, 2021, the city denied Myers and Sons' accusations.

The city alleged the contractor breached the contract because Myers and Sons failed to "substantially complete" its work on the water treatment plant by Nov. 2, 2020, and failed to complete the project by March 23, 2021, per the revised contract schedule.

The counterclaim states the contractor agreed to "perform all of the work within the contract times and within the contract price in accordance with the terms of the contract."

Myers and Sons failed to do that, Colorado Springs claimed.

The contractor's "continuous failures to provide resources necessary to meet the revised contract schedule delayed and protracted the work required by the contract and jeopardized milestone deadlines," the city said.

The city eventually hired a new contractor, MWH Constructors, that completed the first phase of work on the plant, Jordan said this week.

The Tollefson plant produces about 20% to 25% of Colorado Springs' drinking water, blending water from Pikes Peak with supplies transported from the Continental Divide, she said.
Commentary: Overcapacity, a protectionist rhetoric

Xinhua) 08:13, April 12, 2024

Robots weld bodyshells of cars at a workshop of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Li Auto Inc. in Changzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, Jan. 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)

The concept of overcapacity is deeply rooted in economic theory. However, Washington's recent rhetoric has morphed it into yet another Sinophobic catchphrase.

BEIJING, April 11 (Xinhua) -- In view of China's rise to the top of the global car export market, Washington's response has been marked by a palpable unease.

Rather than addressing underlying issues with domestic competitiveness head-on, U.S. policymakers and their allies in the media have resorted to protectionist rhetoric, invoking the convenient but dubious theory of "Chinese overcapacity" in the clean energy sector, particularly in electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar cells.

This tactic isn't new. It reflects a longstanding pattern of politicizing economic and trade issues to suit the U.S. agenda: thwarting the ascent of Chinese rivals to preserve the longstanding monopoly of the United States and its Western allies in the global economic hierarchy.

The concept of overcapacity is deeply rooted in economic theory. However, Washington's recent rhetoric has morphed it into yet another Sinophobic catchphrase, with an oversimplified idea that Chinese goods production in the clean energy sector exceeds domestic demand, resulting in a global overcapacity concern.

A fundamental fallacy of such "overcapacity" accusations is that contrary to an "overcapacity problem," the clean energy sector is struggling to meet global demand amidst urgent climate change concerns and widespread efforts towards energy transition.

At the end of 2023, the International Renewable Energy Agency projected that in order to keep the Paris targets alive, global renewable power capacity must grow by around 1,000 GW a year through 2030.

In 2023, a year with a record high capacity addition, the world had an increase of around 507 GW, half of what was needed to keep the 1.5-degree target within reach, according to the International Energy Agency's Renewables 2023 report.

As China transitions to high-quality development, its "new three" industries -- electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and photovoltaic products -- are highly sought after globally. They support countries in achieving green, low-carbon transformation and sustainable development, fostering global economic growth.

While China's clean energy vehicle industry has made significant strides forward, the United States perceives heightened competition from China in high-end industries and value chains. Furthermore, they fear that their traditional technological monopolies, particularly in developing nations, may face erosion due to China's progress.

This zero-sum mindset fails to recognize the potential advantages of cooperation and collective progress. Rather than perceiving China's advancements as a threat and rolling out more protectionist policies, Washington and its allies should join China for constructive dialogue and cooperation to tackle common challenges like climate change and sustainable development.

If history is any guide, protectionism isn't answer to the economic woes of the United States and the West. As Bloomberg recently argued, despite implementing steel protectionist measures over the past decade, Washington has failed to prevent the decline in employment within the U.S. metal manufacturing industry.

What is worse, these measures have increased costs across other sectors of the U.S. economy, diminishing industry competitiveness. If extended to the new energy industry, such policies would further weaken Washington's ability to address climate change.

Gary Clyde Hufbauer, a senior researcher at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, has recently warned that whether it is in terms of "decoupling" or "de-risking," it is a sign of Washington's shift toward deepening protectionism. Ultimately, it is the interests of American companies and people that suffer.

Clinging to obsolete protectionist strategies hampers global progress and sustains a cycle of distrust and rivalry. On the contrary, embracing an inclusive approach that recognizes China's contributions and aims for shared development and prosperity offers the potential for more fruitful outcomes for all stakeholders in the global economy.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The Armenian Foreign Ministry switched to the language of accusations and threats towards Israel, today.az reports, citing day.az.





He noted that the Foreign Ministry of Armenia is dealing with the issue of the Koveru Partez quarter, in which, according to the Armenians, the interests of the Armenian population are oppressed.





The issue is not only about the safety of our compatriots or citizens, it is deeper. The Armenian Foreign Ministry voiced the problem both at international platforms and at meetings with interested colleagues, including from Arab countries, Kostanyan said.




The Colorado Bureau of Investigations and the Canon City Police Department are searching for a man who they say went missing under suspicious circumstances back in September, according to a Friday morning CBI announcement.

Officials said 45-year-old Shawn Michael Dixon Sr., who was identified by officials as unhoused, was last seen Sept. 12 in the area of Rudd Park at about 7 p.m. getting out of a taxi near the intersection of Rudd Avenue and N. 11th St.

According to investigators, Dixon was allegedly supposed to meet his family that night at "Triangle Park," near the intersection of Hazel Avenue and College Avenue in Canon City, but never arrived.

Officials with the CCPD said as of March 15 the department had exhausted all leads while interviewing "known associates" of Dixon and posting his disappearance to social media.

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After determining Dixon might have been endangered at the time of his disappearance, the police department requested investigative assistance from CBI.

"Cases involving missing adults who are also homeless are both troubling and difficult to investigate. Individuals in this segment of society are at risk of so many challenges out there, and they often move quite frequently, blend into their communities effectively, and actively avoid contact with law enforcement for a variety of reasons," said John Schick, the police chief in Canon City.

According to investigators, Dixon has dark brown hair and blue eyes, and is about 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds. He also has multiple tattoos on each of his arms.

Anyone with information on the investigation or the whereabouts of Dixon is asked to call 720-254-1331.
The former El Paso County sheriffs deputy who was reported missing nearly a year ago and now faces felony charges made his first appearance in Colorado's 4th Judicial District Court on Thursday.

Kevin Sypher, 57, appeared in court facing four charges: Felony theft between $20,000-$100,000, charitable fraud and two counts of misdemeanor officer misconduct.

Sypher was first reported missing on April 27, 2023. According to previous reports by The Gazette, he was found in Denver on April 29 and temporarily reunited with his family.

However, on April 30, Sypher was reported missing for the second time. After a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park with a family member, Sypher walked away from the vehicle he was traveling in, leading to another search, according to officials.

According to Gazette news partner KOAA, the timing of his disappearance could have something to do with the dissolution of this second marriage. His ex-wife did not want to comment on the story.

Court documents acquired by KOAA show that she discovered Sypher was already married to another woman just one month after she married him. Days after her discovery, Sypher walked off into Rocky Mountain National Forest and wasn't heard from for nearly a year.

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In looking into Sypher's background, KOAA learned Sypher and his wife, Sara, worked together and that she is also in law enforcement.

In her petition to declare her marriage to Kevin Sypher invalid, the court documents say that less than a month after they got married in March 2023, she learned her new husband was already married to a woman in California  three days before his disappearance in April 2023.

At Sypher's first appearance on Thursday his attorney, Michael Stuzynski, informed the court that he would be declining to argue bond and requested for a preliminary hearing to be set. Sypher's bond will be discussed more at his preliminary hearing, now scheduled for April 29.

Sypher remains in custody at the Teller County jail on a $100,000 bond.
A Parker man allegedly killed his wife with a hammer just two days after being released from a psychiatric facility.

James Beeker, 73, was arrested by the Parker Police Department on April 4 on suspicion of the first-degree murder of his wife, 78-year-old Angel Beeker, at their Wheat Grass Circle home. The arrest came a day after police responded to the residence for a call regarding psychological issues, according to arrest records.

Police first responded to the couples home around 12 p.m. April 3 after Angel told a friend to contact the police due to James having a psychological episode. Upon arrival, police found the house in disarray with a substantial amount of supplements/medications scattered around the home, according to records.

James allegedly appeared disoriented, pacing around the kitchen and speaking a few words at a time. He continued to refuse to leave the home and report to the Pine Grove Crossing Assisted Living facility, in which he had a reserved room in the memory care unit. Angel said he was mad at her for making him report to the facility.

Angels friend told police that James had been on a mental health hold until he could be placed in the room following his release from a psychiatric facility on April 2.

South Metro Fire Rescue paramedics evaluated James, not finding any immediate health concerns. They eventually left the trio at the scene.

A Pine Grove Crossing employee contacted Parker police on April 4, requesting a wellness check on the couple. Both the facility and the friend could not reach the two via phone, according to the affidavit.

Police reported to the home around 2 p.m. April 4 and found James sitting in his car near Wild Alfalfa Place and Sandreed Circle, an intersection by the home. An officer approached the vehicle, finding the man with blood on his clothes.

James told the officer, according to he affidavit, that Angel was at the house and said: I think I killed her. I hit her in the head with a hammer... I guess I need to go to jail.

Officers forced entry into the home and found Angel dead with obvious signs of trauma on the back of her head, according to arrest records. A sledgehammer with possible dried blood was found in the garage.

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James was transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluations.

The couples friend, who called the police the day prior, stated that James had been getting worse over the past few months. She noted that James would argue with Angel and had been controlling in the past. She said he would never physically harm her, though.

The hospital cleared James and detectives attempted to speak with him. Though he could identify himself and where he was, he claimed to not understand why police were present or why he was being arrested. He claimed to not remember anything regarding the incident.

With memory issues  like dementia  conviction proves rather difficult, according to Scott Robinson, an attorney and legal analyst for The Denver Gazettes news partner 9News.

Many crimes require specific intent. If youre a prosecutor, you face a huge uphill battle to show the mens rea state of mind for many types of crimes, Robinson said. With first-degree murder, it actually requires a specific intent to kill.

There are no typical outcomes regarding cases with defendants suffering from memory issues, he added. Competency to stand trial becomes the first question asked by prosecutors, ultimately eliminating most defendants with dementia.

Our legal system really is not equipped to deal with defendants who have dementia, he concluded, noting that determining the lucidity of defendants can be nearly impossible.

If the defendant is deemed mentally unable to stand trial, the charges could potentially be dropped and the suspect may be placed in psychiatric care at the state mental hospital in Pueblo.

James was arrested and taken to the Douglas County Detention Facility without incident on April 4.
The Colorado Springs School of Technology is one step closer to opening next school year.

The Colorado State Board of Education on Thursday unanimously approved the creation of a planned innovation zone for Colorado Springs School District 11. The Colorado Springs School of Technology is anticipated to be open to students for the 2024-25 school year.

The vote comes after the D-11 board of education approved the application for the innovation zone in February.

Its a very innovative application, very well thought out, board of education member Debora Scheffel said. Its exactly what we need to be doing, which is partnering with business, education (and) local businesses to make this happen.

In its first year, the school will provide students in the ninth and 10th grades curriculum focused on space leadership, applied cyberscience, ethics and entrepreneurship to prepare for careers in aerospace, defense, cybersecurity, information technology and space technology fields.

Initial course offerings listed in the innovation zone's application included cybersecurity, AI, apps and games, aerospace, engineeering and robotics (AER), computers and systems AP computer science in addition to required courses.

In an approach to establish and gradually grow its student body along with funding and course offerings, the district plans to expand to grades 6-8 by the second or third year of operation as well as 11th and 12th grades in the following years.

D-11 Superintendent Michael Gaal told the board that the proposal is part of the districts academic master plan which includes expanding academic and career pathway opportunities for its students as Colorado Springs' population continues to grow.

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The Colorado Springs School of Technology is built on that premise of, How do we accelerate opportunity and outcomes for students in space, in cyber, entrepreneurial? and using this as a value-space opportunity for our students, Gaal said.

The zone plans to partner with the University of Colorado Colorado Springs Cybersecurity and Research Center and the National Cybersecurity Center off North Nevada Avenue to allow industry professionals to instruct students on-location along with licensed educators. It would also allow students to earn dual enrollment credits at UCCS and Pike Peak State College, internships and certifications through the classwork.

The innovation zone would operate under an alternative governance structure to include a board composed of community leaders who represent the schools focus areas.

Local leaders who have already symbolically signed to serve on the board include Gaal, Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC President and CEO Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, UCCS Chancelor Jennifer Sobanet, Pikes Peak State College President Lance Bolton, National Cybersecurity Center CEO Harry Raduege and Col. Judson Dressler with the Air Force Academys Department of Computer and Cyber Sciences.

Gaal said that in addition to offering specialized education and opportunities to students, the innovation zone would help local employers fill workforce gaps theyre experiencing along with helping industry professionals fill some of the districts current teaching needs.

I dont think that School District 11 is unique in having that workforce gap that I have identified, but what I think what we can be unique about is actually bringing the power of the city and local economy to that board, he said.

Steve Durham, state education board representative for Colorado Springs, noted the broad community and bi-partisan support already behind the innovation zone. Durham said was impressed with ideas in the application, including proposals like merit-based pay and at-will contracts for teachers.

He added that this could provide a solution to trends the city has been facing for decades.

I remember when I grew up in Colorado Springs, most of the kids had to leave Colorado Springs to find well-paying jobs, he said. And it would be nice if we could train our children and educate our children for jobs that already exist in Colorado Springs that are extremely desirable and high paying.

Colorado currently has 10 innovation zones in operation, including the Power Zone in El Paso County's School District 49.
A man was arrested after Colorado Springs police say he broke into a home and exposed himself to a child, according to a news release Friday.

Police were called to a home near the intersection of Wimbleton Court and Lexington Drive in in the far north part of the city after getting reports of a burglary April 5.

Police said 31-year-old Cole Cordova entered the home through an unlocked basement door while the family was home.

Cordova allegedly exposed himself to a child before fleeing the home.

On Thursday, Cordova was arrested and faces charges of second-degree burglary, attempted sexual assault of a child and indecent exposure, the news release states.

Anyone carrying information related to the incident is asked to contact police at 719-444-7000.
Spring snow conditions will persist Friday and through the weekend ahead of a multi-day/multiple-storm snow event starting Monday.

Skiers and riders should expect freeze/thaw cycles each day from mid-mountain to summits at the remaining open Colorado resorts through the weekend, with the potential for base areas to stay above freezing each night.

Snow for Tuesday, Thursday and Monday, April 22 of the following week.

Recap:

On Thursday, temperatures warmed into the 40s in Colorado's mountains. Copper Mountain recorded a high of 46 according to AccuWeather records from Wednesday. Other areas saw similar high temperatures as more melting happened around the base areas.

Forecast:

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, high temperatures around Colorado's mountains will reach into the mid 40s and low 50s. Crunchy snow will greet you to start the day, but soften by late morning and even be slushy by early afternoon, especially on south facing slopes.

Long Range:

At what could be the last major snow event of the 2023-24 winter, winter returns next week for a sizeable snow event, especially for northern Colorado.

The first of two waves of snow begins Monday in western Colorado, with heavier snow starting to move further into the state Monday evening, ramping up overnight into Tuesday. The 18-hour period is forecast to be a moderate to heavy snow event, with possible accumulations between 4-12 inches and the potential of 18-plus inches on the Front Range mountains north of Interstate 70.

There is still some disagreement between the models about how much and where the snow will fall, however.

The ECMWF and GFS models have more snow accumulating in the northern Front Range mountains where as the ICON model has more snow accumulations in Summit County and the central mountains.

ECMWF model:

ICON model:

GFS model:

The consensus shows snow will be heaviest from Cameron Pass to Berthoud and Loveland passes.

First chairs on Tuesday in the southern mountains should offer between 2-5 inches while the central and northern mountains between 6-10 inches, with Winter Park and Summit County near the Continental Divide seeing the most snow.

Snow will end Tuesday afternoon before wandering back into northwestern Colorado Wednesday early morning.

The area of low pressure associated with Monday's and Tuesday's snow will be pushed east into the Great Lake while a second low pressure in Montana pushes bands of moisture into northern Colorado Wednesday morning into Thursday.

Snow accumulations in the northern mountains for Thursday's first chairs range between 2-4 inches.

From Friday to Sunday, what looked like snow for Colorado has turned into a lull between storms.

The ECMWF high resolution 240h model has little to no snow forecast for Colorado from Friday through Sunday. But starting Sunday night into Monday, the snow gates appear to be opening up as a low pressure system makes its way on land over central California, pushing out ahead of it moisture across the Great Basin and into Colorado.

More details will be collected over the next few days to see what affects this system will have on Colorado and potential snows around the state.

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Today's 24 hour snow totals from Colorado resorts:

Arapahoe Basin - 0"

Aspen Mountain - 0"

Aspen Highlands - Closed for season

Beaver Creek - 0"

Breckenridge - 0"

Buttermilk - Closed for season

Cooper - Closed for season

Copper Mountain - 0"

Crested Butte - Closed for season

Echo Mountain - 0"

Eldora Mountain - 0"

Granby Ranch - Closed for season

Hesperus - Closed for season

Howelsen Hill - Closed for season

Kendall Mountain - Closed for season

Keystone - Closed for season

Loveland - 0"

Monarch - 0"

Powderhorn - Closed for season

Purgatory - 0"

Silverton - 0"

Snowmass - 0"

Steamboat - 0"

Sunlight - Closed for season

Telluride - Closed for season

Vail - 0"

Winter Park - 0"

Wolf Creek - Closed for season
The man accused of killing two people at a University of Colorado Colorado Springs dorm room has been found incompetent, an El Paso County judge announced Friday.

Nicholas Jordan, 25, is accused of shooting and killing Celie Rain Montgomery, 26, of Pueblo, and Samuel Knopp, 24, of Parker, in the early morning hours of Feb. 16.

Jordan and Knopp were roommates and students at UCCS, according to previous reporting from The Gazette. Jordan's arrest affidavit states that Jordan had made a death threat against Knopp over taking out the trash, and that campus security and housing had recorded multiple complaints about Jordan prior to the shooting.

At Jordan's previous court appearance his attorney, Nick Rogers, requested for a competency evaluation to be conducted on his client, stalling the case indefinitely.

At Jordan's review hearing on Friday Judge David Shakes announced that the forensic psychologist at the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo (CMHIP) who conducted Jordan's competency evaluation found him incompetent to proceed.

Jordan's incompetent status means that his homicide case could be on hold indefinitely until he is restored to competency through mental health services.

Prosecutor Andrew Vaughan filed a motion to request a second competency evaluation to be conducted on Jordan by an independent psychologist hired by the District Attorney's Office.

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Rogers objected to prosecutors hiring an independent psychologist and requested for the court to appoint the state hospital again for the second evaluation. Judge Shakes denied this request, stating that there would be a clear conflict of interest to allow the same agency to conduct both evaluations.

If the two evaluators come to conflicting conclusions regarding Jordan's competency a hearing could be scheduled where Shakes will hear from both psychologists and make a final determination on competency.

Jordan will return to court on May 31 for a second review hearing to discuss the findings of the second competency evaluation.

Judge Shakes also rejected a motion from the defense to allow Jordan to appear in civilian clothes in future proceedings, citing safety concerns with the process of getting a defendant in civilian clothes.

Additonally, Jordan faces a second criminal case where he is accused of assaulting an El Paso County sheriff's deputy in the jail.

According to an arrest affidavit obtained by The Gazette Jordan faces assault charges for allegedly punching a deputy in the El Paso County jail last week after the deputy refused to give him cleaning supplies to clean his cell.

The assault case also remains on hold until the issues with Jordan's competency are resolved.

Jordan remains in custody at the El Paso County jail on a $5 million bond for the double homicide case, and a $10,000 bond on the assault case.
The Muslim community is an integral part of Georgian society and the centuries-old friendship is especially valuable, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said on Wednesday while congratulating Muslims on Ramadan Bayram at the Juma Mosque in Tbilisi, Azernews reports, citing Agenda.

We are proud of the centuries-old historical relationship, the brotherhood established between Georgian Christians and Muslims living in Georgia. Your unique culture is an integral part of our country's culture, Kobakhidze noted in his address.

He congratulated every Muslim living in Georgia on the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan and wished them prosperity and happiness, emphasising he was glad to be with our Muslim brothers on their greatest holiday - Eid al-Fitr.

We have worked together for centuries, fought together for the well-being of our common motherland [Georgia], its progress and development. This is the relationship, the brotherhood, which we take great care of and will continue to care for [this] in the future too, the PM stressed.
Police arrested a Fort Collins man in connection to multiple reports of sexual assault stemming back to the 1990s.

Hipolito Gomez-Perdomo, 65, was arrested in March by the Larimer County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) on suspicion of five counts of sexual assault on a child following multiple reports of his time as a youth pastor for the Vida Abundante church in North Fort Collins.

A teenager reached out to the sheriffs office in 2023 to report that Gomez-Perdomo sexually assaulted her when she was a child in the early 2000s. She did not report the assault at the time due to fear of repercussions but came forward after learning about other victims of the suspect, according to a press release from the LCSO.

Investigators found that there was a report of sexual assault involving Gomez-Perdomo in 2019, but charges were never filed.

Additional victims came forward during the extensive investigation, according to the department, including a woman who claimed she was sexually assaulted by Gomez-Perdomo in the late 1990s when he met her family through the church.

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After the 2019 allegations were reported, Gomez-Perdomo left the church. Prior to living in Fort Collins, he lived in Fort Morgan and Houston, Texas, according to the news release.

The suspect was arrested and booked into the Larimer County Jail in March. He was issued a $200,000 cash bond by the Larimer County Court. He is due in court for a disposition hearing on May 8.

Investigators believe that there may be more victims. Anyone with information regarding the suspect are asked to contact Investigator Travis Fischer at 970-498-5585.

Sexual assault inflicts serious physical and mental harm on victims. It can be difficult to come forward, especially if the perpetrator is in a position of trust, Sheriff John Feyen said in the release. Im grateful for the courageous young women who spoke up in this case. Their voices matter. At LCSO, we believe survivors deserve to be heard and supported.
China's Ministry of Finance said Wednesday that it is regrettable to see the decision by Fitch Ratings to downgrade the country's sovereign credit rating outlook, Azernews reports, citing Xinhua.

The ministry made the remarks in response to media queries after the agency decided to maintain China's sovereign credit rating, while on the same day revising its outlook on China's sovereign credit rating from stable to negative.

Fitch's rating system has failed to effectively reflect the positive effects of China's fiscal policies on boosting economic growth and stabilizing the macro leverage ratio in a forward-looking manner, the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said the plan to keep China's deficit-to-GDP ratio at 3 percent in 2024 is generally "moderate and reasonable," which will help stabilize economic growth, control the government debt level, and reserve policy space for potential future risks and challenges.

"In the long run, maintaining a moderate deficit and making good use of the valuable debt funds is conducive to expanding domestic demand, supporting economic growth, and ultimately helping maintain sound sovereign credit," it said.

The long-term positive momentum of the Chinese economy has not changed, and the Chinese government's ability and determination to maintain sound sovereign credit also remained unchanged, the ministry noted.

Regarding China's local government debt, the ministry said the risks have been mitigated as the country has taken active and prudent steps to resolve them. Payments of principal local government statutory debt and interest on this debt are guaranteed, while the size of hidden debt is gradually declining.

"The work on resolving China's local government debt is progressing in an orderly fashion, and the risks are generally under control," it said.




Jimmy Sengenberger is an investigative journalist, public speaker, and longtime local talk-radio host. Reach Jimmy online at Jimmysengenberger.com or on X (formerly Twitter) @SengCenter.
A Chinese art troupe has been visiting North Korea to participate in an event celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Pyongyang and Beijing, the North's state media reported Wednesday, Azernews reports, citing Yonhap.

The art troupe, consisting of around 300 artists, arrived in Pyongyang on Saturday and Tuesday to take part in a joint performance for the opening ceremony of the "DPRK-China Friendship Year," the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

The visit comes as the two nations mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relationship. China is the North's longtime ally and largest economic benefactor.

A Chinese delegation, led by Zhao Leji, the top legislator regarded as the No. 3 Chinese official, will pay an official visit to Pyongyang from Thursday to Saturday to attend the opening ceremony.

North Korea appears to be ramping up high-level exchanges with Beijing in the key year at a time when Pyongyang has been expanding cooperation with Russia in the military and other fields.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday greeted Muslims worldwide on the eve of Eid al-Fitr, the main Islamic festive that follows the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

"I wholeheartedly congratulate our nation and the Islamic world on the holy Eid al-Fitr. I hope that the Eid will lead to peace, tranquility and well-being for our country, our nation, the Islamic world and all humanity, Erdogan said on X.???????

Eid al-Fitr, which marks the beginning of Shawwal month in the Islamic calendar, is celebrated by Muslims all over the world following the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting in Ramadan.




A local business leader will share ideas with U.S. military experts at a national security seminar in June.

Colleen Frein, president and chief executive officer of the Mason City Chamber of Commerce, has been selected to attend the conference at the U.S. Army War College.

The week-long forum in Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, gives select civilians the opportunity to interact with War College students and hear speakers from the military, government agencies, and other national leadership positions.

Frein was nominated by Maj. Gen. (retired) Gary Wattnem of Mason City, whom she called a dear friend and one of the most intelligent people shes ever met.

(Gary) called me up and let me know that he was interested in nominating me. ... Of course, anytime Gary asks me to do something I say yes because of who he is," Frein said. "But truly, it was a humbling honor for him to even think of me.

After hearing of her nomination, Frein began researching the seminar and became excited about the opportunity to observe some of the brightest minds in the countrys military.

The outreach program is intentionally designed for guests who dont have a close association with the military, encouraging an exchange of views between guests and students.

The program pairs six or seven guests with a seminar group of 25 students. Guests are encouraged to participate in discussions and examine ideas and issues creatively and critically.

During her Pennsylvania visit, the 400 Army officers who were selected to attend the nine-month course at the War College will be in their last week of class before graduation. Frein will have the chance to work with the students, who will be completing their capstones -- a final project showcasing the knowledge and skills they have gained -- and be present at the graduation ceremony.

I certainly have been surrounded by some really incredible servicemen and women, but to go out there and be able to observe it all  the War College, the graduation process, and to see what the graduates are doing for their final capstones  its going to be a really fascinating look, Frein said.

Wattnem, who graduated from the War College, can nominate someone each year for the seminar. Frein will be his seventh nominee to attend.

This is a great experience that connects Main Street America with the U.S. Army ... and enables representative American citizens to get to know the present and prospective leaders of their armed forces, Wattnem said. In turn, it provides future military leaders and War College students with a better understanding of the society they serve.

The selected guests, Wattnem said, are community and industry leaders from different walks of life.

Im very pleased when someone I nominate is selected, Wattnem said. [Guests] get to see and hear a lot of high-ranking people that really furthers their knowledge of which direction our military is going.

Frein said shes excited for the experience, saying its going to be eye-opening and a chance to understand the full scope of national security challenges and how they funnel down to the local level.

We have many members in our community who are very proud to employ veterans, and we have a fantastic National Guard post here in Mason City that we also support, Frein said. I think that sometimes we think were just here in Mason City, and what happens on the national stage doesnt affect us, but it does, and at the end of the day ... those are things that impact our businesses here in Mason City.

Frein said part of the War College students graduation process involves understanding how their schooling translates to civilian life and how to work with business people, a topic on which she can offer her expertise.

Weve had some very highly esteemed people from our area who have attended this in the past, and Im so honored to be in their footsteps. Im really grateful to Gary for thinking of me for this nomination, Frein said. Truly, its an honor to be able to represent the North Iowa community.
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RICHMOND  Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has proposed a rewrite of legislation intended to legalize and tax skill games, adding stiff new restrictions that industry supporters argued would still amount to a de facto ban of the slots-like gambling machines hosted by small businesses.

The governor put forward amendments late Monday that overhaul a measure the General Assembly sent him in March, calling for a higher tax rate on the receipts from the machines, and a provision allowing localities to prohibit them. The proposed changes also add placement restrictions on the arcade-style games, banning them within about a half-mile of churches, day cares and houses of worship, and seemingly excluding them in many metro areas that already host a gambling establishment, such as Danville.

While skill-games supporters vowed to fight the proposed changes, Youngkin spokesman Christian Martinez said in a statement the added protections the governor is seeking address serious concerns with the regulatory structure, tax rates, the number of machines, impact on the Virginia Lottery and broader public safety implications of the legislation.

The skill-games bill was one of dozens Youngkin took action on late Monday, as he ran up against a deadline to complete work on measures sent to his desk during the regular session that ended March 9.

The governor, a Republican, vetoed measures that would have set up a prescription drug affordability board and allowed all localities to hold a referendum on raising sales taxes to help fund school construction. He amended a Democratic priority measure that aimed to protect the right to access contraception in a way supporters said gutted its intent. And he signed off on measures expanding the states revenge porn law and establishing 18 as the minimum age for marriage.

Of the 1,046 bills sent to him this year by the Democratic-controlled General Assembly, he signed a total of 777, amended 116  including the state budget  and vetoed 153, his office said. Youngkin has vetoed more bills in this year alone than any of his seven immediate predecessors did over their entire four-year terms, according to an accounting by the nonpartisan Virginia Public Access Project.

Lawmakers will reconvene in Richmond in the coming week to consider his amendments. They could also attempt to override his vetoes, though Democrats would need Republicans to join with them to reach the necessary 2/3 vote threshold.

The skill games debate is a rare issue that has not fallen along partisan lines. A coalition formed to push for legalization this year centered the voices of the small-business owners who hosted the machines in establishments like gas stations and restaurants and shared in their profits before a ban first passed in 2020 took effect.

Rich Kelly, a restaurant owner and the president of the coalition, said in a statement Monday that Youngkins amendments were devastating and would effectively ban the machines by prohibiting them within within 35 miles of any casino, racetrack or gambling satellite facility. Virginia has casinos in Bristol, Danville and Portsmouth, and allows wagers on live horse races and another form of slots-like betting in historical horse race wagering parlors around the state.

Youngkins proposed tax rate  35% according to the governors office  would also make skill games the highest taxed good in Virginia, Kelly said.

For years, policymakers in Virginia and around the country have been grappling with how to regulate the machines, which look similar to slot machines but involve an element of skill, their manufacturers say. Virginia lawmakers first voted to ban skill games in 2020 as they were opening the door to casinos.

Operators got a reprieve after then-Gov. Ralph Northam asked lawmakers to delay the ban by a year and instead tax the machines and use the revenue for COVID-19 relief. The ban took effect in July 2021 but was challenged in court and put on hold for a while amid that fight.

Bill sponsor Aaron Rouse, a Democratic senator from Virginia Beach, said in a statement that he would work to block Youngkins amendments and do everything possible to make the interests of small businesses  not casinos or massive out-of-state corporations  a priority.

A coalition opposing skill game legalization that counts the states casinos among its members said in a statement that it was still reviewing the amendments but it appreciated the governors more thoughtful approach to a measure that would have led to an unprecedented expansion of gambling in Virginia.

If both legislative chambers agree to Youngkins entire set of amendments when they meet next week, the bill as amended would become law. If lawmakers only accept certain amendments, the bill would be returned to Youngkin, who could either sign or veto it.

In other action late Monday, Youngkin approved a pair of mental health reform bills that stemmed from the death of Irvo Otieno, a 28-year-old Black man whose death last year while in custody at a state mental hospital sparked outrage and led to both legal charges and a wrongful death settlement.

Youngkin also sought amendments to two pieces of legislation that touch on organizations related to the Confederacy in a way that means lawmakers would have to approve them again next year before they could take effect. One of the bills would would have ended a tax perk currently enjoyed by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, and the other would have ended the issuance of special license plates honoring Robert E. Lee and the Sons of Confederate Veterans.
GREENSBORO  Amanda Smiths admirers say heroes dont all wear capes. Some have a blue safety vest.

If not for how high her delivery van sits from the road and a natural curiosity, the Greensboro Amazon driver would not have been able to see the peeking tire of an overturned car down a steep embankment.

And Shirley Roberts might not have been found in time.

Something came over me that this is not normal, Smith recalled. Something just didnt feel right.

The black Ford sedan had plunged off the highway and down a steep embankment last month near Asheboro. The car is thought to have been there for hours with the great-grandmother trapped inside after swerving to miss a dog. Later at a hospital, doctors would find a broken neck, ribs and femur.

This week, the retired lunch lady at a local school took 66 steps with a walker in rehab  a milestone, said her daughter-in-law, Eleanor Roberts.

Had it not been for Amanda, Roberts said.

Smith had been on a busy stretch of Old Lexington Road, preparing to make a left turn on Cedar Creek Drive when she glanced to her right. Her eye caught the tire, which in itself was not unusual. Sometimes they are tossed on the side of the road. But her vantage point up in the truck means she might see what others cant. And there was something about the way that tire poked up that led her to pull over. She put on her four-way flashers and got out. When she crossed the road and looked over the embankment, she saw a vehicle below a nestle of trees.

She had a sense of urgency as she called for help. Smith could see the cars taillights and hear a radio playing, but she couldnt get all the way down to the vehicle.

Are you OK? Smith called out.

But there was no response.

Her trucks hazard lights started drawing a crowd and one of the men in the forming group of onlookers was able to scale down the 20-foot drop to the overturned vehicle. He saw that the driver was alive and moving.

Arriving emergency workers used the Jaws of Life tool to wrest the doors from the car. A rescue team took it from there.

About 30 minutes later, Roberts was pulled out. Smith watched emergency responders load her onto a sled-like gurney and navigate her safely up the embankment.

It was all pretty terrifying while it was unfolding, but I just couldnt leave until I found out she was going to be OK, Smith said.

Eleanor Roberts, the daughter-in-law, had been visiting West Virginia when a trooper from the Highway Patrol went through her mother-in-laws phone and found a name. While the officer shared that Shirley had been seriously injured and was at Moses Cone Hospital, Roberts did not tell her husband, Shirleys son, until they got back for fear they might have an accident trying to reach her. He just knew she had been involved in an accident and they needed to get back home.

I prayed all the way back, Roberts said.

Smith stayed at the scene until the ambulance left.

And then she was back in her van, making the rest of her deliveries.

She wondered about the woman down the ditch.

She reminds me a lot of my grandmother, Smith said.

The investigating trooper later called, asking if he could share her number with the family, which was eager to reach out and thank her. After having been through such trauma, Shirley Roberts doesnt want to talk about the accident, but there are plans for them to meet soon.

The daughter-in-law has been keeping Smith updated on Shirleys condition. She calls Smith an asphalt angel.

Sometimes Smith serves as a dispatcher and might not even be out making deliveries.

But not that day.

It was divine intervention, Eleanor Roberts said of Smith coming across her mother-in-laws car.

Im just thankful I was there that day, Smith said.
()

Imagine free diving 30 feet to the ocean floor. You remain calm as you hold your breath, waiting for your target to come with shooting range.

Bang!

Your spear pierces the fishs body. Swimming to the surface in search of fresh air, you drag along your catch of the day.

Since ancient times, the Chamorro have been one with the ocean, passing on their fishing skills from generation to generation. Spearfishing was one of the original ways of hunting for food on Guam, and the tradition continues today.

My father taught my brothers and me how to fish using hook and line at a very young age, said James Borja, 43, president of Marianas Underwater Fishing Federation. As kids, we spent our weekends and holidays at the beach. The water was our playground and we enjoyed fishing as it was always exciting to catch something and eat our catch.

At the age of nine, Borja took his fishing to another depth.

I began spearfishing along with my brother and cousins, he recalled. Since there was no spearguns available on Guam back then, we built our own out of wood, stainless steel scrap and copper tubing.

Even though the improvement of technology has brought forth spearguns that are triggered by compressed gas and the use elastic slingshots to hunt fish, theres one thing that hasnt changed for Borja: free diving and a holding his breath as he searches out his ocean prey. After 35 years spearfishing, he can easily hold his breath for more than 2 minutes and dive close to 100 feet.

His biggest catch is 96-pound Napoleon Wrasse which he caught at the depth of 90 feet off Guam. Even though there are bigger fish deeper down, he says that he prefers to dive 5 to 30 feet all day with his buddies.

According to Borja, the majority of spearfishing is done up on the reef from 5 to 60 feet in Guam because the fish congregate along the shallow reef and slope, including the popular targets parrot fish and unicorn fish.

For Borja and his buddies, safety is a major player.

If you dive 80 to 90 feet while holding your breath and spear a larger fish, it is rather difficult because if the fish struggles, it much harder work and you are facing danger, he continued. When you swim up, you need to think about shallow water black out. A minute to a minutes and a half is enough time to make a dive, spear fish and come back to the surface safely.

It takes lot of practice and many experiences to be a good angler, he cautioned, saying it is good to practice snorkeling first so you can get comfortable in the water. According to Borja, you must be comfortable in the water and be able to hold your breath for at least a minute.

Anywhere off Agat is a good area to practice because it is usually calm, Borja said, adding that it is highly recommended you always dive with a partner. North of Two Lovers Point is also good area. During the summer months, the water is usually calm and allows for access to the east side of the island.

Today, breath-holding spearfishing is recognized as a competitive sport. Various tournaments and competitions are held all over the world, including the Micronesia region.

At the 2014 Micronesia Games in Pohnpei - an international multi-sport event held every four years - Borja and Michael Cassidy took the gold medal in the team competition with total of 99 pounds of fish. In individual event, Guams Ray Flores took silver with 49.9 pounds.

We were very happy to win the Gold Medal during the 2014 Micronesian Games in Pohnpei, said Borja. We were defending the Gold Medal from the 2010 games in Palau. Although there are many fish in Pohnpei, the spearfishing was very challenging as the fish were easily spooked and difficult to spear.

The tradition of spearfishing has been strongly rooted in Guam and you can see it at fish market. Next time when you visit Guam Fishermans Cooperative, you may want to check the heads and bodies of the fish.

There is always a spear-mark on the fish if it is caught by speargun, said Chris Ogo, a Fishermans Co-op representative. Usually all fish speared are reef fish, which are very popular to eat in Guam. Most popular fish is parrot fish, and it sells out really fast.

According to Borja, spearfishing has been getting even more popular in the past 10 years. It seems that as long as there is an ocean, the island spirit of Guam will always make people to go catch fish with spears.

I grew up eating fish and I love fish. I can eat fish every day, said Borja. If I want to eat this a particular kind of fish, then Im gonna go catch it. Its a way of life for me.

Editors note: Aquasmith in Saipan offers spearfishing lessons and course upon your request. Visit their site at www.aquasmith.com for more details.

Dont go spearfishing by yourself. Always have a dive buddy with you. Stay within sight of your dive buddy.

Estimate the sea conditions, and make a dive plan with your buddy before you dive.

Know your limits.

You should always be correctly weighted with a quick release weight belt.

Dont dive without proper flags, rigging and float lines.

Dont dive if you have a cold or are congested.

Ask a local about the location if youre diving somewhere new.

Dont dive drunk or under the influence of any other substances.

Dont load your speargun outside the water.

Dont point your speargun at anyone - EVER.

Always check your gear for wear and tear before diving.

Spit your snorkel out at the surface before you dive. If you black out underwater, your mouth will stay closed and keep water from flooding your lungs - as long as your snorkel isnt in your mouth.

Spend twice as long at the surface, as your last dive to insure enough time to recover.

If you see your dive buddy start to sink, unexpectedly stop or start blowing bubbles, help them to the surface right away.

If your dive buddy has blacked out, revive them by blowing on their face and tapping their cheeks. Stay calm, so your buddy doesnt panic and hyperventilate. Perform CPR if necessary.

It is always a good idea to have a first aid kit on the boat or in your gear back at the shore in case of emergencies.

All forms of spearfishing, including scuba and free-dive, are prohibited off both Naval Base Guam and Andersen Air Force Base, according to military officials. The policy has been made to ensure the protection of military community members.

There are five marine preserves around Guam where spearfishing is not allowed.

Prohibited area: Pati Point Preserve, Tumon Bay Preserve, Piti Bomb Holes Preserve, Sasa Bay Preserve, Achang Reef Flat Preserve

For more information on marine preserves: http://www.marinepreserves.com/files/mpas.pdf

Guam one-stop store for spearfishing gear Fanui Spearfishing Specialtie in Anigua Tel: 671-482-6011 Email: fanuiguam@gmail.com
Kazakhstan and Belgium have agreed to hold a joint business forum, Azernews reports.

This topic was discussed during the meeting of the Vice-Minister of Trade and Integration of Kazakhstan Kairat Torebayev with Rose Donck, Director - Head of Department State Visits and Belgian Economic Missions of the Belgian Foreign Trade Agency, in Brussels.

Approximately 200 companies from both countries will participate in the upcoming business forum, scheduled to take place in Belgium in 2024.

During the discussions, the parties addressed the volume of bilateral trade and acknowledged that it falls short of the existing potential.

Rose Donck, speaking on behalf of Belgium, mentioned that the last economic mission to Kazakhstan occurred in 2010. She stated that there are considerations within the agency to organize another economic mission to Kazakhstan in the near future.

Donck further elaborated that the agency plans to arrange a business seminar focusing on investment, trade, and economic opportunities in Kazakhstan for 200 Belgian firms. She also provided insights into the agency's global activities and functions.

On the other hand, Kairat Torebayev updated the counterpart on the operations of the Ready4Trade portal and extended an invitation to Rose Donck to participate in the Astana International Forum scheduled for June 13-14, 2024.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Belgium in 2023 amounted to $523.7 million, which is 1.7 percent higher than in 2022 ($514.9 million). By 2022-end, the volume of investments in the economy of Kazakhstan from Belgium amounted to $1.56 billion.




EFFINGHAM  Some memories burn bright and hot, a scar on the collective soul even after the healing balm of time has been applied for 75 long years.

The blaze that torched the original St. Anthony Hospital in Effingham on April 4, 1949, is one such memory. The inferno claimed 77 lives, including a dozen infants and their 22-year-old nurse, Fern Riley, who was heard to cry, My babies, my babies, and was never seen alive again after she stayed at her post trying to save them while the building was being consumed by the flames raging all around her.

How best to mark a significant anniversary of something the Effingham community never allows itself to forget?

Effingham City Commissioner Libby Moeller and Jenn Alwardt, executive secretary to the Effingham Fire Department, had some ideas. Maybe T-shirts or commemorative stickers perhaps, notions they pitched at a meeting of the Effingham Retired Volunteer Firefighters Association back in September.

Well, the members all sat there and we went around the table and talked about it, said Nick Althoff, 76, a former fire chief and president of the ERVFA.

But T-shirts and stickers get thrown away and so we said, Why dont we do a statue instead?

Youll see the emotional result unveiled Sunday outside what is now the shiny and modern face of HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital, the latest in a series of hospital buildings and remodelings to emerge from the ashes of the fire. The 75th anniversary statue will stand as a 6-foot granite sentinel looking out from the medical campus and depicting  what better?  the figure of a nurse cuddling a baby.

It all cost some $40,000, and yet a community-wide fundraising drive achieved that goal within just six months, the cash gushing in like water from a fire hose. And it's still coming, with more than $42,000 donated so far, but every extra penny counts: excess funds will be used for the maintenance and upkeep of the statue, which sits amidst a landscaped area adorned with commemorative plaques.

The City of Effingham had kicked off the fundraising with a $15,000 boost, but a lot more came from families: "What really surprised me was that most of the rest is all individual donations from across the region, said Moeller, 45, one of four city commissioners plus a mayor who run the city.

But I know there are still a lot of people who are emotionally tied to that tragedy through family connections, she added. And I guess they know its just important for us to remember this historical event and the wave of consequences that came from it.

Roaring flames

The official report into the horrific blaze by Illinois State Fire Marshall Pat Kelly was never able to pin down a precise cause, although it was tracked to having started somewhere in the hospital basement.

Kellys report charted how the flames roared upward through an open laundry chute into the attic of the old hospital and exploded along stairways while fed by painted and varnished surfaces in the age-dried structure, the bulk of which dated to 1876. The hungry flames were also boosted and made worse by the extensive use throughout the buildings of flammable sound-proofing material.

Doctors and nurses and nuns (the hospital was run by the Hospital Sisters of The Third Order of St. Francis) did their best to save as many patients as they could with the help of the Effingham Fire Department. Out of 128 patients, staff and visitors, only 54 escaped alive. The death toll included nurses, nuns, a priest and 12 babies along with nurse Riley, their faithful caregiver, who was just 22 when she perished.

Had Riley lived, she would have been the great-great-aunt of Jenn Alwardts children. Thats on my husbands familys side and so Ive always known about what happened, said Alwardt, 40. But the family did not talk about it very openly because, well, it was very heartbreaking, as you can imagine.

The fire that killed so many and would inflame the emotions of so many more across generations to follow also forged changes destined to save countless future lives.

The state fire marshal's report recommended now universally-adopted fire prevention policies, including the establishment of fire detection, alarm and protection devices in public and private institutions and the concept of regular fire prevention inspections for public buildings.

Then-Gov. Adlai Stevenson ordered the evaluation of all hospitals in the state to identify and deal with fire hazards. And enforcers of building codes across the United States would also learn the painful lessons of the Effingham conflagration and demand changes in construction design and materials to mitigate fire risk.

Alwardt said its a legacy to be grateful for and a ray of hope that continues to shine forth from tragedy: Firefighters see where we are and where weve come from, she added. Its about keeping everybody safe.

Outgunned

The fire marshal had praised what was then a 25-man, mostly volunteer Effingham Fire Department for doing its best to fight the hospital fire. But he also said the department had found itself out-gunned and out-maneuvered by the scale and speed of the inferno it confronted on that long and devastating night seven and a half decades ago.

Its equipment, manpower and water supply was, however, totally inadequate in the face of so great a fire involvement and its efforts, however heroic, were futile against the speed and intensity of combustion, Kelly concluded.

The report lists the scant resources the department had in its armory as three pumpers and one panel truck and, amazingly, one of those pumpers and that panel truck will be present at the hospital again for Sunday's big tribute to honored memory. Both vehicles are lovingly preserved and looked after by Nick Althoff and the dedicated souls of the volunteer firefighters association, and are popular guests in parades and special events.

But Althoff said they will grace no occasion more special than the dedication of that poignant statue and all that it represents as it conveys the act of remembrance into posterity.

That fire all those years ago was like our own miniature 9/11 tragedy right here in Effingham, said Althoff. It affected everybody; and it still does.

Close 1949: April 9. Memorial Services for Hospital Victims. A solemn requiem high mass is sung April 6 at St. Anthonys Roman Catholic Church in Effingham, Ill., as memorial services are held for those who perished in the St. Anthonys hospital holocaust April 5. Catafalque (head of aisle) symbolizes victims. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: April 5. Sisters from St. Marys Hospital, Decatur, were called to duty at the Effingham fire early today. Feed, clothing and medicants were taken to the scene of the hospital fire. Sister Virginia tags one of the bodies as Sister Marciana, left, looks on. Father George Monarque, St. Marys chaplain is at the right. (H&R file photo) 18. 1949: April 5. Smoldering ruin of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham where nearly 50 persons died in a fire early today are shown in mid-morning. Brick walls of the three and one-half story structure are standing but the interior was gutted. (The Associated Press file photo) 17. 1949: Effingham, ILL. April 5. Fire Hero. Ben Biedenher (above), a male attendant at the St. Anthonys Hospital here, assisted many patients to safety. He administered his own first aid after he could assist no more. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: April 6. The still smoking ruins of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham where more than two score perished in an early morning fire Tuesday are shown in this aerial picture taken about 11 a.m. The brick walls of the three and one-half story structure remain standing, but the interior was gutted by the flames. Twelve infants perished in the blaze. Walls are being caved in to aid search for dead. (H&R file photo) 1949: April, 5. This air view of the ruins of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham, where nearly 50 persons perished in an early morning fire today, was taken by Bob Meadows, Herald and Review staff photographer, late this morning. The brick walls of the three and one-half story structure are standing, but the interior was destroyed by the blaze. (H&R file photo) 1949: April 5. This is a rear view of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham at the height of the fire in which nearly 50 persons perished early today. Fire gushed through the interior of the 60-year-old building all at once. Some victims were saved by leaping from upper story windows. 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. Height of Hospital Blaze. A burning inferno trapped many patients at the St. Anthonys Hospital here in an early morning fire this morning in which at least 50 persons lost their lives. The intensity of the heat kept rescuers away. (Seventy seven people died when fire swept through St. Anthonys Hospital in the early morning hours. Officials believed the fire started near midnight in a laundry chute. Flames spread to an elevator shaft and engulfed the 73-year-old hospital. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Efforts to seek possible survivors and to find the dead inside the ruins of St. Anthonys started even before flames were brought under control at 3 a.m. Tuesday. Here a worker goes over a second floor room foot by foot to check for human remains. The charred head of a bed, on which a body was found earlier, is in foreground. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. View of hospital fire. All through the morning and late into afternoon curious crowds gathered at the St. Anthonys Hospital watching bodies being lowered from the still smoldering building. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Firemen go about the grim task of removing bodies of fire victims in St. Anthonys Hospital at Effingham Tuesday. In the picture victims are being removed from the third floor. (H&R file photo) 1949: April 6. Statue Escapes Fire. This statue of St. Anthony, patron saint of St. Anthonys Hospital where scores perished in fire yesterday, escaped damage in conflagration. Coping above window at right is discolored by smoke and roof is burned through at eaves. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: April 6. Anxious relatives, awaiting identification of their dead, crowd restraining ropes as volunteer workers Tuesday carry bodies into a barn on the St. Anthonys Hospital grounds. Headquarters were established in the barn. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, IL, St. Anthonys Hospital fire. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. Hospital fire survivors rest. S. Robards (left), and Howard Mullins (right), of Casey, Ill. rest two in a bed today after escaping from burning St. Anthonys Hospital. Mullins underwent an appendectomy last night and leaped from a hospital window. He was removed to a Terre Haute hospital in serious condition. (The Associated Press) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. Fire victims identified. An unidentified nun and fireman inspect a body for identification after the fire at St. Anthonys Hospital here. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Volunteer rescue workers huddle for instruction at midnight as flames begin their destruction of the 100-bed hospital, resulting in the greatest disaster in Effinghams history. It is a city of more than 6,000. Knotted bed sheets used by escaping patients are shown in the lower windows at the left. Many patients were seriously hurt in jumping from upper windows. The wall at left collapsed later. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5- Disaster Hospital. More than 50 persons were reported to have died in the fire which destroyed St. Anthonys Hospital here today. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Effingham firemen and national guardsmen prepare to lower a blanket shrouded body Tuesday from the third floor of St. Anthonys Hospital. Work of recovering and tagging the dead was slow, with only 35 bodies recovered by 5 p.m. Tuesday. Parts of the structure continued to break out in flames during the morning. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 6. Inspect damaged operating room. Monsignor J.J. Gatton of Springfield, Ill., steps through the window of the operating room of the fire damaged St. Anthonys Hospital, two armed National Guardsmen assist Sister Urbene who also inspected the room. (H&R file photo) Photos: Looking back at the St. Anthony's Hospital fire 1949: April 9. Memorial Services for Hospital Victims. A solemn requiem high mass is sung April 6 at St. Anthonys Roman Catholic Church in Effingham, Ill., as memorial services are held for those who perished in the St. Anthonys hospital holocaust April 5. Catafalque (head of aisle) symbolizes victims. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: April 5. Sisters from St. Marys Hospital, Decatur, were called to duty at the Effingham fire early today. Feed, clothing and medicants were taken to the scene of the hospital fire. Sister Virginia tags one of the bodies as Sister Marciana, left, looks on. Father George Monarque, St. Marys chaplain is at the right. (H&R file photo) 18. 1949: April 5. Smoldering ruin of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham where nearly 50 persons died in a fire early today are shown in mid-morning. Brick walls of the three and one-half story structure are standing but the interior was gutted. (The Associated Press file photo) 17. 1949: Effingham, ILL. April 5. Fire Hero. Ben Biedenher (above), a male attendant at the St. Anthonys Hospital here, assisted many patients to safety. He administered his own first aid after he could assist no more. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: April 6. The still smoking ruins of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham where more than two score perished in an early morning fire Tuesday are shown in this aerial picture taken about 11 a.m. The brick walls of the three and one-half story structure remain standing, but the interior was gutted by the flames. Twelve infants perished in the blaze. Walls are being caved in to aid search for dead. (H&R file photo) 1949: April, 5. This air view of the ruins of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham, where nearly 50 persons perished in an early morning fire today, was taken by Bob Meadows, Herald and Review staff photographer, late this morning. The brick walls of the three and one-half story structure are standing, but the interior was destroyed by the blaze. (H&R file photo) 1949: April 5. This is a rear view of St. Anthonys Hospital in Effingham at the height of the fire in which nearly 50 persons perished early today. Fire gushed through the interior of the 60-year-old building all at once. Some victims were saved by leaping from upper story windows. 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. Height of Hospital Blaze. A burning inferno trapped many patients at the St. Anthonys Hospital here in an early morning fire this morning in which at least 50 persons lost their lives. The intensity of the heat kept rescuers away. (Seventy seven people died when fire swept through St. Anthonys Hospital in the early morning hours. Officials believed the fire started near midnight in a laundry chute. Flames spread to an elevator shaft and engulfed the 73-year-old hospital. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Efforts to seek possible survivors and to find the dead inside the ruins of St. Anthonys started even before flames were brought under control at 3 a.m. Tuesday. Here a worker goes over a second floor room foot by foot to check for human remains. The charred head of a bed, on which a body was found earlier, is in foreground. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. View of hospital fire. All through the morning and late into afternoon curious crowds gathered at the St. Anthonys Hospital watching bodies being lowered from the still smoldering building. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Firemen go about the grim task of removing bodies of fire victims in St. Anthonys Hospital at Effingham Tuesday. In the picture victims are being removed from the third floor. (H&R file photo) 1949: April 6. Statue Escapes Fire. This statue of St. Anthony, patron saint of St. Anthonys Hospital where scores perished in fire yesterday, escaped damage in conflagration. Coping above window at right is discolored by smoke and roof is burned through at eaves. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: April 6. Anxious relatives, awaiting identification of their dead, crowd restraining ropes as volunteer workers Tuesday carry bodies into a barn on the St. Anthonys Hospital grounds. Headquarters were established in the barn. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, IL, St. Anthonys Hospital fire. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. Hospital fire survivors rest. S. Robards (left), and Howard Mullins (right), of Casey, Ill. rest two in a bed today after escaping from burning St. Anthonys Hospital. Mullins underwent an appendectomy last night and leaped from a hospital window. He was removed to a Terre Haute hospital in serious condition. (The Associated Press) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5. Fire victims identified. An unidentified nun and fireman inspect a body for identification after the fire at St. Anthonys Hospital here. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Volunteer rescue workers huddle for instruction at midnight as flames begin their destruction of the 100-bed hospital, resulting in the greatest disaster in Effinghams history. It is a city of more than 6,000. Knotted bed sheets used by escaping patients are shown in the lower windows at the left. Many patients were seriously hurt in jumping from upper windows. The wall at left collapsed later. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 5- Disaster Hospital. More than 50 persons were reported to have died in the fire which destroyed St. Anthonys Hospital here today. (The Associated Press file photo) 1949: Effingham firemen and national guardsmen prepare to lower a blanket shrouded body Tuesday from the third floor of St. Anthonys Hospital. Work of recovering and tagging the dead was slow, with only 35 bodies recovered by 5 p.m. Tuesday. Parts of the structure continued to break out in flames during the morning. (H&R file photo) 1949: Effingham, Ill., April 6. Inspect damaged operating room. Monsignor J.J. Gatton of Springfield, Ill., steps through the window of the operating room of the fire damaged St. Anthonys Hospital, two armed National Guardsmen assist Sister Urbene who also inspected the room. (H&R file photo)
Uzbekistan's Silk Avia airline will launch direct flights on the route Bukhara - Urgench - Bukhara, Azernews reports.

The first flight on this route will be carried out on April 13, and starting from May 4, flights will be operated every Saturday on a regular basis.

Travel time will be 1 hour 15 minutes, which will significantly reduce travel time between regions without the need for a transfer in Tashkent.

The new route offers travelers the opportunity to explore the cultural and historical heritage of Uzbekistan.

Meanwhile, on April 1, Uzbekistan Helicopters under Silk Avia brand launched flights on the Nukus - Muynak - Nukus route.

Flights operate three times a week: on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays. Flights are carried out on the LET L-410 aircraft.
Exports are critical to Americas dairy farmers and processors. Last year, the American dairy industry exported $8.1 billion in dairy products, roughly 17% of total U.S. milk production. Thats the second-best year on record, falling just short of 2022.

As global demand for high-quality and sustainably-produced dairy products will grow, the U.S. dairy industry must keep exports expanding to thrive today and over the long term. To help encourage that, and in the absence of efforts by the U.S. government to secure new market openings, the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) have taken the initiative to drive forward projects to pursue Most-Favored Nation (MFN) tariff reductions in multiple key export markets.



U.S. dairys quarter-century of export expansion hasnt been by chance. The strong commitment from U.S. dairy producers and manufacturers to investing in painstakingly growing international sales, coupled with multiple trade agreements that opened the door for that growth to occur, are key drivers of the trend. Unfortunately, in recent years, anti-trade rhetoric has gained momentum from politicians on both sides of the aisle. Meanwhile, major competitors  namely in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand  have successfully negotiated new market access, advantaging their domestic producers through lower tariff rates and favorable trading conditions. The result is that U.S. producers are increasingly at a disadvantage in several key markets, including China and most countries in Southeast Asia.

MFN tariffs are tariff rates that one country applies to imports from all trading partners that are members of the World Trade Organization. Importantly, MFN tariffs do not apply to products that benefit from even lower rates due to preferential trade agreements, such as a free trade agreement or customs union.

Not content to yield key markets to trade competitors, NMPF and USDEC launched a formal initiative in 2014 to lower duties on U.S. dairy exports in China. Following years of engagement, that resulted in a tariff cut on U.S. cheese exports. A few years later in 2019, NMPF and USDECs efforts scored another breakthrough by securing tariff reductions on a variety of exported dairy products into Vietnam.

Halfway around the globe, NMPF and USDEC tallied a small victory in March by successfully petitioning the United Kingdom government to eliminate its 6% tariff on fat-filled milk powder for at least two years.



NMPF and USDEC are continuing to pursue MFN tariff cuts in other key markets around the globe as well, with an emphasis on the growing Asian region, even as government initiative is lacking.

For example, the Philippines is a sizable dairy importer, using those inputs in the Philippine food processing and food service sectors. NMPF and USDEC have impressed upon the Philippine government the advantages of diversifying its dairy supply chains further and are petitioning for MFN tariff reductions for a variety of products, including cheese, lactose, and milk powder.

Although these initiatives by NMPF and USDEC cannot fully replace government negotiation of new trade agreements, efforts to drive down tariffs in these countries represent just a few examples of the markets that NMPF and USDEC are prioritizing as they continue to fight for fair opportunities for U.S. dairy producers and companies to compete in the global market.





To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2024

April 4, 2024
All Peoples Church of Jesus Christ

Worship at 11 a.m. Sunday at American Legion Post 172. Pastor: Prophet Roland Jordan delivers the message.

Ann Street United Methodist Church

335 Ann St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Randy L. Wall. In person and Facebook Live worship at 11 a.m. Scripture: Psalm 115: 1-11. Sermon: He is God.

Bethpage United Methodist Church

109 Fellowship Ave. at West C Street, 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 E., Concord. Pastor: Eric Shaver. Sunday school, 9 a.m. Worship service, 10 a.m. (In person or on Facebook). Sermon Title: Let Hope Filter Your Life. Opening Reading: Psalm 4. Childrens Sermon: Sharon Holmes. Scripture Reading: 1 John 3: 1-7

Calvary Lutheran Church

950 Bradley St., Concord. 704-782-6923. Pastor: Rev. Debbie Frye. In-person worship at 8:30 a.m. (Casual Worship) and 11 a.m. (Traditional Worship with Childrens Church). Coffee/Cookie Social, 9:30-11 a.m. Childrens Area and Nursery available at all times. All services livestreamed and available anytime on the Calvary Lutheran Concord YouTube channel  easy access through our website at www.clconcord.org or church app Calvary Lutheran ChurchNC. Sermon Series: Faith Forward. Sermon Theme: Growing Faith

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!

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.

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. 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.

First Presbyterian Church

201 Vance St., Kannapolis. 704-938-4623. Pastor: Eddie Spencer. Coffee fellowship, 9:30 a.m. Sunday school, 10 a.m. Worship service, 11 a.m. in person and also livestreamed on YouTube. www.firstpresb.org.

Forest Hill United Methodist Church

265 Union St. N., Concord. Senior pastor: Rev. Mandy Jones. Associate pastor: Rev. Wes Judy. 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 livestreamed at foresthillumc.org or facebook.com/foresthillumc, in case you dont feel like being here in person.

Grace Church of Concord  A Global Methodist Community

28-B Branchview Drive NE, Concord. Lead pastor: Michael Dominick. Worshipping every Sunday at 10 a.m. Sermon: What If I Am a Spiritual Being? Scripture: John 14:15-21. Series: Dynamics of a Spiritual Life. Topic: The Holy Spirit is the advocate Jesus promised. You are cordially invited to join us over the next seven weeks for Pastor Mikes sermon series on the Dynamics of a Spiritual Life. To learn more about the church, visit www.graceconcord.org where you will find links to our Sunday Morning Livestream and more.

Harmony Church Concord

101 White St. NW, Concord. Pastor: Thad Brown. Our Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. followed by our worship service at 11 a.m. Sermon: Where Is Our Faith? Scripture: Luke 8:22-25, Hebrews 11:1. The service is broadcast live on Facebook.com/HarmonyChurchConcord. For more information, you can call 704-791-2883 or 704-467-0179.

Jackson Park United Methodist Church

715 Mable Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor Laurie Knoespel. Adult Sunday school, 9:30 a.m. Worship, 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. 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 afterward. Third Sunday after Easter. Sermon: Peace Be With You. Scripture: Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48.

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/midwayUMCWorship. Special worship activity: Communion. Worship theme: Learning to communicate with our Creator. Message: Prayer isnt a Gift. Its a Skill. First Reading: Luke 11:1-4. Second Reading: Matthew 6:9-13. Suggest Hymns: TFWS 2022, Great is The Lord, TFWS 2036, Give Thanks.

Mt. Mitchell Global Methodist Church

6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Joel Locklear. Office phone: 704-933-0155. Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. (Adult and Children classes.) Worship at 11 a.m. in person or on Facebook. Nursery for children up to 5 years old. Sermon: Children of God. Scripture: 1 John 3:1-7

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

2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Road. 10 a.m. Sunday school followed by 11 a.m. worship in the sanctuary or worship live on YouTube. We hope that you can connect with us online if you cant be with us in person.

Oak Grove Baptist Church

200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. Pastor: Rev. Franklin D. Watkins. 10 a.m. In-person worship service. Also available on Facebook Live and YouTube Live. Sermon: What Shall I Render to God and What Shall I Render to the IRS? Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22.

Rodgers Park Baptist Church

309 E. 24th St., Kannapolis. Weekly message from KJV Bible, by Pastor Joel Ervin. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. Worship at 10:45 a.m. Facebook Live at 11 a.m.

Second Presbyterian Church

1578 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis. Pastor Sue Black, minister. Assistant minister: Rev. Aaron Price. Sunday school at 10 a.m. Worship at 11 a.m. Scripture: Matthew 13:24-30 & 36-43. Sermon: Jesus the Teacher.

St. Johns Reformed Church

901 N. Main St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Chris King. Sunday school for all ages, 9 a.m. Worship service, 10:30 a.m. Website: www.ourstjohns.org. Email/phone: ourstjohns@gmail.com / 704-932-3656. Sermon: The End. Scripture: Ecclesiastes 12.

Trinity United Church of Christ

38 Church St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Nathan King. Worship at 11 a.m., in person or on Facebook (live or watch later). Website: commachurch.com. Youre invited!
Friday, April 12

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 13

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

The Kannapolis Area Presbyterian Men will hold a fundraiser at Second Presbyterian Church. They will be selling chicken dinners which will include 1/2 bar-b-que chicken, cole slaw, baked beans, roll, drink and dessert for $15. Serving will begin at 11 a.m. until sold out. You may eat-in or take-out. All proceeds will go to CVAN (Cabarrus Victims Assistance Network). The church is located at 1578 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis.

The Brookdale Baptist Community Day fundraiser will be at the church on South Ridge Avenue in Kannapolis The event will include Hot dog sale, Silent Auctions, 50/50 Raffles, Live Music, Bounce House and a Community Yard sale. For more details visit https://go.evvnt.com/2329739-0

Sunday, April 14

A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30-5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the church office at 704-782-1811.

Monday, April 15

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner.

Tuesday, April 16

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Wednesday, April 17

The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join the members on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave. SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome.

Thursday, April 18

Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500.

Friday, April 19

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 20

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

New Gilead Reformed Church will have a Vendor and Craft Show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the church parking lot. A hot dog sale will also be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The church is located at 2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Concord.

Midway United Methodist Church will be holding a Hot Dog and Yard Sale. The yard sale is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the Hot Dog sale is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is located at 108 Bethpage Road, Kannapolis.

Boger's Chapel United Methodist Church will have a craft fair and bake sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Boger's Chapel is located at 1775 Flowes Store Road East, Concord.

Sunday, April 21

A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30-5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the church office at 704-782-1811.

Monday, April 22

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner.

Tuesday, April 23

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Wednesday, April 24

The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Thursday, April 25

Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500.

Friday, April 26

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 27

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

The Friends of the Midland Library's annual Spring Fling will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 4293-B 24/27 East. The book, craft, vendor and garage sale will feature Cabarrus Arts Council, demonstrations by Karate at the Crossroads and food vendors like Bayou Sno. The event will benefit the Midland Library.

The American Legion Auxiliary in Kannapolis will host a complimentary brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to celebrate American Legion Family Day. All military moms, spouses, daughters and granddaughters 18 and older to be our guest and enjoy visiting with others whose family's have served. We want the entire family to THRIVE following U.S. Military Service. R.S.V.P. is necessary by Friday, April 19 to ala115kannapolis@gmail.com

Monday, April 29

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner.

Caregiver's Support Group Monthly with Calvary Lutheran Church will be at 7:30 p.m. This Caregiver Support Group meets monthly via Zoom. All are welcome. For the Zoom link please check the Calvary Lutheran Church facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org or contact the church office at 704-782-6923.

Tuesday, April 30

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Wednesday, May 1

The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join the members on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave. SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome.

Thursday, May 2

Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500.

Mt. Mitchell Global Methodist Church will participate in the National Day of Prayer. The church will be having a 24-hour prayer event. There will be a tent set up on 6001 Old Concord Salisbury Road, at the driveway of the church.

Friday, May 3

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, May 4

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

Does your community group or nonprofit agency have an upcoming event that would be of interest to the public? Email it to mplemmons@independenttribune.com.
Do you remember when your teacher used to loudly knock on their desk to get your attention?

I am knocking. Loudly. And you need to pay attention.

North Carolina has over 1.3 million students in our public K-12 schools. According to the most comprehensive national K-12 school ranking system, North Carolina kids go to schools that rank 43rd in school quality in America. They also go to schools where the state legislatures annual funding is around $5,000 below the national average.

And the kids lives are damaged.

When researchers dig deeply into the key ingredients of student success, they find that the quality of teachers is important  but their effectiveness can be decreased by factors outside the classroom. Support systems have to be in place.

Vital actions schools can take that the legislature has been underfunding include:

School security

The most important way to support student learning appears to be by having a system of school security that everyone trusts. An environment that parents and children perceive to be safe considerably lowers anxiety, allowing the mind to more easily engage in learning.

In a 2018 study administered by the Research Alliance for New York City Schools, Researchers found that of four dimensions of school climate . safety was most strongly correlated with academic improvement for students.

Teacher turnover rate

If teachers quit during the school year, student learning drops  particularly in schools with a low-income student population that is most in need of stability. An eight-year study of 850,000 students in New York found that teacher turnover considerably lowered both English and math scores.

In North Carolina, researchers found that students who lose a teacher have significantly lower test scores than average, with the most harmful impact caused when teachers leave between December and April.

School building quality

A third component of learning support is the quality of the building  the noise level, quality of lighting, and quality and quantity of classroom air. This is not new knowledge; studies going back 50 years have pointed this out.

Many old buildings have poor indoor air quality, increasing asthma rates in teachers and students, and compromising students ability to learn. The age and performance of a school building is a larger predictor of teacher departure than low pay.

The role of school nurses

The recommended ratio of nurses to students before COVID was one nurse for every 750 students. Currently, North Carolinas ratio is 1 to 833.

And now the pop quiz

Why is North Carolinas General Assembly failing to support our school systems?

North Carolina has the resources to seize the opportunities outlined above and help more than a million of our kids. Yet our state legislatures funding for public school students is among the worst in the country.

Why are they doing this?
The most common question I get is What are they doing over there at? And just fill in the location. Weve got two of those in todays Friday Five, which is more like seven. I had more but ran out of time.

No. 1

Two projects under construction. What are they doing over behind Target? Weve had a couple of stories about this one. It is the new Cabarrus County Library and Active Living Center.

I was there Wednesday and they are really making a lot of progress. And while were over at Afton Ridge, I will repeat that the new project across Kannapolis Parkway is Panda Express

The other project is in the parking lot beside the Cabarrus College of Health Sciences. There are a bunch of trailers (mobile classrooms) being installed.

It will be a 10-plex and home to the Cabarrus Health Sciences Institute, which began last August. The high school is a partnership between Cabarrus County Schools and the college.

Right now the institute is in the Concord Medical Mall, which is across the street from the parking lot in question.

Our schools are really involved in a lot of good stuff. When I was in high school we didnt have AP classes or anything specialized except maybe welding or home ec.

No. 2

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences announced a new scholarship last week that is in memory of Imogene McGinnis Foil, an RN graduate of 1948. Back then the college was called the Cabarrus Memorial Hospital School of Nursing.

Mrs. Foils daughters, Anita Foil Fowler and Kay Foil Wynter shared this about their mother:

In 1943, to address a nursing shortage due to WWII, the Cadet Nurse Corp was formed by the Federal Government. Cabarrus County Hospital School of Nursing (which evolved into Cabarrus College of Health Sciences) participated in this program, giving their students the opportunity to receive a nursing education; covering tuition, housing and all related expenses in exchange for a commitment to work as a civilian or military nurse for the duration of the war.

At this time, Imogene McGinnis, our mom, was living on a dairy farm with her parents in Lincoln County, NC. She joined the nursing students at Cabarrus County Hospital School of Nursing taking advantage of this great opportunity to become an RN. This decision was life changing in so many ways. In addition to her nursing education, our mother made many lifelong friends with other nurses. She even met our dad through connections at Cabarrus County Hospital.

Our mothers life was cut short by a heart attack at the young age of 49. On February 27, 2024, she would have been 100 years old. In memory of Imogene McGinnis Foil and to commemorate this date, we are creating several scholarships for nursing students at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences.

It is our hope that this gift will help some students pursue their passion in nursing, just as our mother did, graduating as a nurse in 1948.

We need nurses and I know there are caring students who want to fill those needs. The scholarships will help.

No. 3

Those markers beside the new Cabarrus Courthouse. Have you noticed the black metal markers on the walkway beside the new courthouse? I was running up that way Sunday afternoon and noticed them.

They look like name plates with a space left blank. I emailed Cabarrus County information guru Jonathan Weaver and he found out that they are markers showing the walkway is part of the Carolina Thread Trail.

Those bronze pavers are actually markers for the Carolina Thread Trail. The former Means Ave used to connect the trail from Union to Church, so since Means was replaced with the Courthouse Plaza those were installed to signal the continuity of the trail path, Weaver said.

Theres a lot of space on those. I wonder if they will put something else on them later.

No. 4

Food drive for 1Can Blessing Boxes. The 2024 Class of Leadership Cabarrus is hosting a food drive to benefit the 1Can blessings box program.

The drive will be Thursday, April 18, from 5-8 p.m. at Cabarrus Brewing Company, 329 McGill Ave. NW.

The most needed items include: peanut butter (18 oz. jars); 1-pound bags of rice; large boxes of cereal; canned corn, peas and carrots; and canned soup.

Volunteers will be in the Cabarrus Brewing parking to collect the donations.

No. 5

Vacation days for license plate agency. The folks at the Concord License Plate Agency sent us a note about some of their vacation days.

The Concord License Plate Agency will be closed for the following vacation days during 2024. These are in addition to state holidays in which state government offices are closed: Monday, April 15; June 14; Aug. 12; Oct. 14; and Nov. 27.

The folks at the Concord agency suggest you go to other area offices on those days if needed, including Kannapolis License Plate Agency and Harrisburg License Plate Agency.

No. 5A

Litter Sweep in Concord begins tomorrow. Our war on litter continues with the City of Concords spring litter sweep being held Saturday, April 13 through April 27.

Concord is encouraging families, friends and organizations to get together to pick trash along our roadways, greenways and anywhere you find it. Call 704-920-5379 to sign up and reserve your litter sweep supplies. That means reflective vests and trash bags.

Our friends up in Kannapolis with ELK (Eliminating Litter in Kannapolis) have been busy. The first group effort of the year was Saturday, March 23.

ELK organizer Rita Bliven said there was good turnout and the group even met a cute puppy in the area they were working.

The next ELK event will be Saturday, April 20. They will clean part of Brantley and China Grove roads and meet at Charity Baptist Church at 2420 Brantley Road, Kannapolis. It will be from 10 a.m. to noon.

No. 5B

A live concert. We told you about Chris Rigos music. Over the last couple of years Rigo has recorded multiple albums and videos.

After writing, recording and releasing music for the last three years, Ive put together a live band to play a few shows in between my hectic convention schedule, Rigo said.

The first concert will be Saturday, April 20, at the Greenlife Family Farm, 281 Odell School Road, Concord. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the music begins at 7.

The official name is Chris Rigo and the Haunted Hearts Band.

Chris has his next Concord Micro-Con set for Star Wars Day  May 4 (May the force be with you.) It will be at Cabarrus Brewing.

If you have a Friday Five, a story suggestion or something I can rant about email mplemmons@independenttribune.com or call or text 704-786-0001.
Australian investment in Research and Development has reached a 30-year low and Australia cannot afford to neglect R&D any longer, according to the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE).

ATSE CEO Kylie Walker says the academy has long called for ambitious action to take advantage of the opportunities ahead of Australia in energy, manufacturing, advanced technologies and more, and notes that while Australia only spends 1.68% of its GDP on R&D, research and development spending by Australias competitors is growing.

Walkers comments followed what she said was the Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses call for ideas to allow Australia to best capitalise on its comparative advantages and invest in new industries.

Australias science, research and innovation sector will need to lead the way in this transformation  developing new industries, skills, products and opportunities for the nation. A step change is needed to enable this. As a first step, we call on the government to boost investment in research and development (R&D) to 3% of GDP, Walker said.

The Prime Minister has said the world wont wait for us. Hes right. We need an immediate and sustained increase in R&D funding to make sure Australia doesnt get left behind.

Australian research and innovation will be the driving force behind our future prosperity. Australia cannot afford to neglect R&D any longer.

Walker said ATSE looks forward to working with the Australian Government as this plan is developed and implemented. Australias leading scientist, technologists and engineers stand ready support Australias innovation future.

Walker noted that ATSE has recently developed a number of high-impact proposals that directly support the aims of the Future Made in Australia plan.
Sony has launched a new series of audio devices, the ULT power sound series, bringing wireless speakers and headphones designed to make you feel you have dived right into the front row of the arena. The new ULT power sound devices are built for music lovers and produce powerful deep sound designed to make your heart tremble.

The new Sony ULT power sound range consists of wireless speakers ULT TOWER 10, ULT FIELD 7, ULT FIELD 1, and wireless headphones ULT WEAR. All models in the series include the ULT button, providing signature sound quality by enhancing the music with one or two different sound modes.

In line with the ULT power sound series launch, Sony has partnered with GRAMMY award winner and global chart-topping sensation, Peso Pluma. The powerful sound and massive bass of the ULT POWER SOUND series excites me, says Peso. As a musician who relies heavily on bass when creating my music, I feel that these products provide the best listening experience for my fans and there is nothing else like it. The artist will feature as part of Sonys For The Music audio brand campaign, focusing on the ULT POWER SOUND series.

ULT TOWER 10  the power of live-venue sound in your home

Turn your home into party central with massive bass, 360 Party Sound, 360 Party Light and karaoke, thanks to a supplied wireless mic. You can even connect the speaker to your TV to boost the sound of the things you love to watch.

ULT TOWER 10 key features:

ULT POWER SOUND - Enhance all your low-end frequencies for exceptional bass. Enjoy 2 different type of bass-emphasised sound mode. Hit the ULT button for deep bass boost for low-frequency sound that will make your heart tremble with ULT1. ULT2 delivers powerful bass to feel the beat and get you dancing.

Sound Field Optimisation - Detects noise and automatically changes the sound setting to deliver clear music even when you are surrounded by other sounds.

360 Party Sound and 360 Party Light - 360 party sound that carries powerful sound to every corner of the room. With its vibrant lighting, the ULT TOWER 10 brightens up every corner of your party. It even synchronises with the music to create a true festival feeling.

Karaoke, Guitar, and TV Sound Booster - Belt out your favourite tunes, thanks to the included wireless mic. Plus enjoy complete control of your sound, with Echo and Key Controls on the top panel. You can plug in another microphone for a duet or a guitar to play along using the ULT TOWER 10 as an amp. TV Sound Booster enhances the sound from your TV.

Party Connect - Link up to 100 compatible speakers to synchronise music and lighting through Party Connect  fill any place with powerful sound to create the ultimate party atmosphere.











ULT FIELD 7  The party goes any place

Liven up your day with punchy bass and expressive lighting wherever you go. The ULT FIELD 7 lets you take the party anywhere thanks to the waterproof and dustproof construction plus a long battery life means you can party for longer. You can even connect to a mic for karaoke on the go.

ULT FIELD 7 key features:

ULT POWER SOUND - Select ULT1 for deeper, lower frequency bass or select ULT2 for powerful, punchy bass.

Sound Field Optimisation - Detects noise and automatically adjusts the sound setting to provide an optimal music experience, however busy the venue might be.

Party for longer - Throw a party anywhere for longer thanks to up to 30-hour battery life. Plus, with quick charging, you get 3 hours of playing time in 10 minutes. IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, you can take the party outside. Its also saltwater resistant, which means you can enjoy music even at the beach.

Carry anywhere - The ULT FIELD 7 can be easily moved around with the convenient carry handles and as its designed to work perfectly whether positioned horizontally or vertically.

Karaoke and guitar input and lighting - Connect a mic and get ready to sing anything. Its the perfect partner and even includes Echo and Key Controls on the rear panel. Or you can connect your guitar to turn the ULT FIELD 7 into an amp. And up the fun even more, ambient lighting produces subtle illumination perfect for parties and everyday use.

Party Connect - Link up to 100 compatible speakers to synchronise music and lighting through Party Connect.

ULT FIELD 1  Big sound. Small size

Bring your favourite tunes anywhere with enhanced bass built into a compact package with the ULT FIELD 1. Complete with a multi-way strap for ease of use, take your waterproof, dustproof and even shockproof speaker anywhere for longer, thanks to a long battery life.

ULT FIELD 1 key features:

ULT POWER SOUND - Turn ULT POWER SOUND on for enhanced bass.

Anywhere, any way - ULT FIELD 1 is your perfect partner for everywhere you go. Designed to be portable with up to 12 hours of battery life so you can enjoy your tunes longer. Plus its multi-way strap, IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, shockproof design and salt-water resistance lets you take your speaker anywhere, indoors or out.

Colours to suit your style - with Black, Off-White, Forest Grey and Orange to choose from, you can find the colour that suits your style.

Choice of layout - The ULT FIELD 1 is designed to work when it stands on its end or is laid on its side, for the best use of space  even when that space is limited.

Usability - Easy to use and connect with built-in mic for hands-free calling with Echo Cancelling technology for clearer calls.

ULT WEAR  Powerful sound. Make it your own!

With exceptional bass and improved Noise Cancelling, the new Sony ULT WEAR headphones let you bring your favourite festival or club feel with you, everywhere you go.





ULT WEAR key features:

ULT POWER SOUND - Press the ULT button for powerful sound. ULT1 delivers deep, low-frequency bass, and ULT2 provides powerful bass.

Designed for power - theyre powered by Sonys Integrated Processor V1, the same processor found in Sonys award-winning 1000X series headphones, and a driver unit designed for ULT POWER SOUND series, to produce unwavering energy, huge resonating bass, and crystal-clear detail.

Noise cancelling - With Dual Noise Sensor technology and the Integrated Processor V1, ULT WEAR takes Noise Cancelling to the next level. Now you can truly shut out the world and enjoy a party for one  just you and your music.

Comfortable design - The headphones are comfortable with soft earpads and more space around the ears, yet still provide powerful, high-quality sound. ULT WEAR have a foldable design and come complete with a carry case.

Everyday use - ULT WEAR exudes function, form and features. A sensor pauses your music when you take them off and starts again when you put them on. Bluetooth pairs with two devices at the same time with Multipoint Connection. Battery life is up to 30 hours with Noise Cancelling on, and up to 50 hours with Noise Cancelling off. And if you need to top up in a hurry, a 3-minute quick charge will give you up to 90 minutes extra play time.

Sustainability in mind

The ULT POWER SOUND series is not only designed to deliver powerful sound but also with the environment in mind. Recycled plastic is used in the products. This reflects Sonys commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our products and practices.

About For The Music

Sony established the brand platform "For The Music" for its premier consumer and professional audio products and services. With "For The Music," Sony is affirming itself as the premier audio brand connecting music creators and consumers, aiming to create authentic music experiences and transcend emotion for fans by supporting creator's vision over everything.

Availability & Price

ULT WEAR

The new ULT WEAR Headphones will be available in Australia from April 2024.

Available now from Sony direct. Available now for pre order via participating retailers.

SRP: $349.95 AUD

ULT SPEAKERS
A telephone conversation between Turkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has been held, the Turkish media said, Azernews reports.

Additionally, it was noted that during the telephone conversation, the leaders discussed bilateral relations between Turkiye and Iran, as well as regional and global issues.

Simultaneously, the leaders congratulated each other on the occasion of the Ramadan holiday.
Samsung has announced its new Galaxy Cover7 enterprise-ready smartphone and Galaxy Tab Active5 enterprise-ready tablet. Both devices are geared to handle field and frontline work that demands versatility, optimisation, and security, even in tough environments. Both bring advanced 5G connectivity, with mobile processor performance.

Both devices will deliver enhanced mobility with upgraded mobile processor performance and increased memory. Additionally, the XCover7 comes with a new powerful rear camera, and expanded display size and resolution, while the Tab Active5 includes a replaceable battery and No Battery Mode, providing users the flexibility to work in a variety of settings.

Rugged devices offer a smart solution; combining hardiness with performance contributing to increased adoption throughout the Asia Pacific, from 48% in 2020 to 81% in 2022, growth in the ruggedised device market is unlikely to slow down.

Samsung understands that businesses today face unprecedented challenges and opportunities, and they need devices that can keep up with their dynamic needs, said Jerry Park, EVP and Head of Global Mobile B2B Team, MX Business at Samsung Electronics.

Incredible performance

Galaxy XCover7 and Galaxy Tab Active5 enable workers to use their smartphones and tablets without worry. Both devices  along with the Tab Active5s bundled S Pen  are IP68-rated for water and dust resistance. Tested against the MIL-STD-810H military standard, the Galaxy XCover7 can withstand accidental drops and bumps of up to 1.5m on a steel surface while the Galaxy Tab Active5 can withstand a 1.8m accidental drop and bump on a plywood surface when using the bundled protective case.

The Galaxy XCover7 and Galaxy Tab Active5 feature Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ and Corning Gorilla Glass 5, respectively. The device displays also allow for adjustments to touch sensitivity, making them easy to use for workers wearing gloves. With these specifications, Samsung Galaxys ruggedised devices can help withstand outdoor conditions, making them ideal for a wide variety of frontline workers.

Designed to Keep Work Moving in the Office, Field or Frontline

In todays increasingly digital world, staying connected has been key as businesses, their operations and workforce evolve and become more technologically integrated. Galaxy XCover7 has been upgraded to provide fast and reliable 5G, along with Wi-Fi 5, while the Galaxy Tab Active5 offers 5G and Wi-Fi 6. This connectivity allows workers to collaborate more efficiently and effectively.

In addition to smooth connectivity, Galaxy XCover7 and Galaxy Tab Active5s premium displays make for easy, convenient use. The XCover7s 6.6-inch display provides more surface area alongside increased resolution compared to previous generations. The Tab Active5s bright, 8.0-inch display offers great visibility in outdoor conditions and a smoother viewing experience with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Both devices are engineered to offer powerful enterprise support while maintaining a slim, lightweight frame for work in all kinds of conditions.

Samsung Galaxys ruggedised devices can help ensure work continuity, providing workers with the support and connectivity they need, even in new, challenging work environments. For long days in the field or on the factory floor, workers using both the Galaxy XCover7 and Tab Active5 can leverage fast charging to mitigate wasted time between charges and enable enhanced productivity. Both devices also come equipped with replaceable batteries, minimising downtime in and out of the workplace.

The Galaxy Tab Active5 can run without a battery in No Battery Mode. This lets workers use the device non-stop at kiosks or in vehicles. The Galaxy XCover7 and Tab Active5 also have POGO charging interfaces, which can help simplify the charging process by enabling workplaces with POGO docks to charge multiple devices at once.

Engineered to Maximise Productivity and Security

Samsungs ruggedised devices are also designed to maximise productivity and efficiency, and streamline fieldwork. Increased speaker volume ensures clear auditory volume, programmable keys enable shortcuts for improved productivity, and quick barcode scanning via Knox Capture streamlines operations for warehouse work or mobile points of sale (mPOS).

Workers can unleash the full power of their smartphone or tablet with enhanced PC connectivity, too. The devices effortlessly handle quick content sharing, simultaneous displays and overall continuity of work between mobile and PC through Link to Windows, or emulate a desktop interface for jobs that take workers out of the field and into the office.

As businesses continue to operate in a fast-paced environment favouring efficiency, Samsung Galaxys ruggedised lineup can help workers get more done in less time, helping to meet growing consumer demands through increasing productivity and workplace operations. Galaxy XCover7 and Galaxy Tab Active5 are also compatible with a range of third-party accessories, from various functional cases to charging cradles, USB-Type C PTTs and more  enabling full integration into virtually any workplace operation.

In a first for Samsungs ruggedised devices, Galaxy XCover7 and Galaxy Tab Active5 come with support for Samsung Knox Vault. As part of Samsung Galaxys commitment to expanding security protections beyond flagship devices, enterprise customers now have even greater choice in the devices that can safely support their business needs. Knox Vault can help protect data on these devices, including lock screen information like PIN codes, passwords and patterns.

It constructs a secure execution environment that is physically isolated from the systems main processor and memory and is effective from the moment a user registers their lock screen  thus users can enjoy the security they need without hassle. Knox Vault can help protect users security keys which encrypt their data stored in the device, ensuring safety  even if the device is lost or stolen. A hardware-based, Samsung Knox Vault can help safeguard a users data against external threats.

Availability

The new Galaxy XCover7 and Galaxy Tab Active5 will be available starting 22nd February 2024.

For more information, about Samsungs latest Galaxy devices please visit https://news.samsung.com/au/galaxy or https://www.samsung.com/au/mobile/
SHELBYVILLE  The Shelby County Board has moved a step closer to reviving the county's dive team by reappointing its former commander.

The county board voted 18-3 at its monthly meeting Thursday night to bring back Commander Austin Pritchard, who had joined with his fellow dive team members in resigning nine months ago amid a dispute with the board.

During a subsequent public comment period, board member Sonny Ross of Windsor took a step of his own across the courtroom to shake hands with Pritchard.

"There were things that I did that were wrong. I would do them differently given the chance," Ross said of the dispute, adding that one mistake was not shaking Pritchard's offered hand nine months ago. "I just want to say that I am sorry for any disrespect that I showed you, openly and privately. I am looking forward to putting this (team) back together."

Most attendees in the courtroom stood and applauded the sight of the two men shaking hands. Pritchard patted Ross on the shoulder as he said, "For this to move forward, it's going to take a lot of work on everybody's part, but I understand."

The dispute had centered, in part, on some board members' concerns that the 23-year-old dive team did not have proper insurance coverage. Dive team members countered that they felt that the board was trying to micromanage this emergency response group. The board has since adopted a resolution clarifying the team's insurance coverage so that it can resume operations.

Pritchard cautioned the board and the audience that the dive team has a long way to go yet before it can return to action. For example, he said dive equipment has not been maintained and needs to be recertified before being put back into use. He said the team also will need to work with the county board and its public safety committee to get new standard operating procedures in place.

"We will put a dive team back together. We will get it back working. We will take care of what we need to take care of," Pritchard said.

During his public comments, Pritchard also thanked board member Tad Mayhall of Shelbyville for acting as a mediator for dive team agreement and Chairman Robert Orman of Windsor and other board members for making this possible.

Mayhall said in a prepared statement that appointing Pritchard, who served as commander for nearly a decade, will allow for an expedited assembly of the team. He said a functioning, experienced team needs to be in place to respond to emergencies at Lake Shelbyville, including during the upcoming busy tourism season, and in flood prone areas of the county.

"Pritchards leadership led to unwavering trust in the former dive team members, and I welcome him back and look forward to working with him to get the team operational as quickly as possible," Mayhall said. He added that a qualified dive team needs to be on hand at the Ninth Street entrance to Lake Shelbyville during the Fourth of July fireworks there.

Jon Summers, operations manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Shelbyville, said during the public comments that dive team members have spent hundreds of hours training for their roles and serving Shelby County communities. He said the team will not be able to "pick up right where they left off," but the lake's staff will be there to support the team and the county board.

"I just want to thank the county board and dive team both for coming together for the public. Your efforts affect a lot more people than just live in Shelby County," Summers said, noting that the team also is there to serve Lake Shelbyville tourists and the many other visitors to the county.

In a related matter, the board voted 18-3 to appoint members Mayhall and Carol Cole and Tim Morse, both of Shelbyville, to the Public Safety Committee to replace Cody Brands of Findlay, Annette Martin of Herrick, and Lori Nelson of Moweaqua.

Board members Tim Brown of Moweaqua and Martha Firnhaber and Jeremy Williams, both of Shelbyville, voted against the Public Safety Committee membership change and the reappointment of Pritchard. The agenda noted that board member Brands of Findlay recently resigned prior to the meeting.

Mayhall said he, Cole, Morse and county board/Public Safety Committee member Teresa Boehm of Shelbyville all have been vocal advocates of getting the dive team back into operation over the last several months. Mayhall said the change in committee membership will help rebuild trust with the dive team members.

Thursday's meeting followed a March 19 primary election in which some incumbent board members, including Brands, Firnhaber and Martin, lost their races with challengers, including from Republicans in a Shelby County United coalition that also includes Democrats. This coalition's top issues include reviving the dive team and the county farm.

Regarding the county farm, Cole withdrew a County Farm Committee proposal to have local farmer Stuart Fox planting and harvesting this property. Cox said Fox would have provided manpower, equipment and fuel and donated the proceeds to the county, with the county covering the cost of seed and chemicals.

This county property had been farmed for decades but has sat idle in recent years due some board members raising concerns about the legal status of this practice.

Cox withdrew the proposal after board members Orman, Williams and Mitchell Shuff of Shelbyville voiced their ongoing concerns that the county farm does not have a public purpose as defined by the Illinois Constitution. They also raised concerns that renewing this property's use as farmland would result in the county acting as a business and put taxpayer money at risk on the open market.

The county board subsequently directed the farm committee to look into options for having a cover crop plant on this property as an alternative to farming. Several audience members voiced frustration with this direction and urged the board to further resource options for the land, such as enrollment in conservation programs or eventual annexation by the Shelby County Airport.

Photos: Shelby County primary election night
Turkiye's IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation has been providing assistance to those in need in Sudan, where severe clashes between the army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have persisted since April 2023, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

Speaking to Anadolu, Bilal Bahci, the IHH representative in Sudan, said despite the worsening humanitarian situation, Sudan has fallen off the international agenda.

He highlighted the organization's efforts in reaching thousands of displaced people in conflict-affected areas, delivering donations from philanthropists.

Bahci mentioned the distribution of food packages, zakat (obligatory almsgiving in Islam) and sacrificial meat during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan in the city of Omdurman alongside Darfur and Port Sudan.

He said 3,530 aid packages were provided and iftar or fast-breaking programs were organized for 2,191 individuals.

In Darfur and Khartoum, they distributed sacrificial meat to 1,200 families, while in Omdurman, where aid access is limited due to the ongoing conflict, efforts continue to provide food packages to struggling families, he added.

Bahci also underscored IHH's ongoing support for women, children and families affected by the conflict since its inception, having delivered thousands of hot meals and food packages.

He also pointed to the delivery of 48 humanitarian aid containers, providing essential support.

Sudan has been mired by fighting between the army, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who is the head of the ruling Sovereign Council, and the RSF.

At least 13,900 people have been killed and more than eight million displaced in the conflict that started in April 2023, according to UN figures.

Several cease-fire agreements brokered by Saudi Arabia and US mediators have failed to end the violence.




CHICAGO  Federal prosecutors are seeking to call a pair of former Chicago aldermen as experts in the citys political landscape at the upcoming racketeering trial of former Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan.

In a motion Thursday, prosecutors asked that retired University of Illinois at Chicago professor Dick Simpson be allowed to testify as an expert witness on traditional Democratic machine politics, particularly the patronage system that ward bosses like Madigan were able to use to build and maintain power.

They also want to call former Ald. Michele Smith, a former federal prosecutor who would describe for the jury the intricacies of City Hall, including obscurities such as aldermanic prerogative, zoning and the role of ward committeemen, according to the filing.

Its not the first time the U.S. attorneys office has sought to use former legislators as experts in a political corruption trial.

Last year, prosecutors wanted Simpson to describe the structure and operation of the Chicago machine to jurors in the ComEd Four trial of McClain and three former ComEd executives and lobbyists, but lawyers for the defendants argued the proposed testimony was a transparent attempt to paint the four defendants with the broad brush of Chicago political corruption.

Even if the 150-year history of Chicago political corruption were at all relevant to the facts at issue, the jury needs no special expertise to understand that there has historically been political corruption in Chicago, the defense stated in a joint motion.

U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber decided to block Simpson from testifying, ruling it wouldnt help the jury decide the facts at issue and could prejudice the defendants.

Madigan, 81, is charged in a 23-count indictment alleging he participated in an array of bribery and extortion schemes from 2011 to 2019 aimed at using the power of his public office for personal and political gain.

Also charged was Madigans longtime confidant Michael McClain, 76, a former state legislator and lobbyist who was convicted last year of orchestrating an alleged bribery scheme by Commonwealth Edison. McClains sentencing in that case is pending.

Madigan and McClain have each pleaded not guilty and the trial is set for October.

In the request to have Simpson testify, prosecutors said his expert perspective would add critical context for statements made on undercover recordings, particularly how an old school patronage system that rewarded ward loyalists and doled out job recommendations allegedly evolved into ComEd steering hundreds of thousands of dollars to Madigan approved consultants in order to appease the speaker.

Equipped with an understanding of the history of political patronage in Chicago, the jury will better understand that the payments from ComEd to Madigans precinct workers were for their political worknot because of any value they added for ComEd, or simply because Madigan was in the habit of making casual job recommendations that he had no special interest in, prosecutors wrote. On the contrary, Madigan was keenly interested in his political workers being rewarded for their loyal service to his political operation.

Smith, meanwhile, is perfectly suited to lead the jury through some of the more Byzantine aspects of City Hall politics, prosecutors said, particularly when it comes to the importance of zoning.

Smiths former City Council colleague, Daniel Solis, was the head of the Zoning Committee when he began cooperating with the FBI, making undercover recordings of Madigan as the speaker allegedly solicited business for his private law firm from developers who needed Solis influence over zoning issues.

(Smith) has substantial knowledge of zoning procedures and customs, both written and unwritten, based on her experience as an alderperson for 11 years, prosecutors said. In addition, Smith personally interacted with Solis when he was chairman of the Zoning Committee, and she will testify about the way he ran the committee and the power he wielded as chairman, including his ability to set the agenda for zoning matters.

Smith represented Chicagos 43rd Ward, which includes Lincoln Park and parts of Old Town and the Gold Coast, from 2011 to 2022, when she announced she was not running for reelection.

She was tapped by then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot to head a newly created Ethics Committee and fought for tighter ethics controls at City Hall over the objections from some of the councils more ingrained members, including Solis and then-Ald. Edward Burke.

Solis left the council in 2019 after being outed as an FBI mole. He was charged with misusing his powers as Zoning Committee chairman for personal gain, but the case will eventually be dropped as part of a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. attorneys office.

Burke, meanwhile, was convicted in December of racketeering charges based in part on Solis undercover work. His sentencing is set for June.
The suspect in Mondays officer-involved shooting was released from the hospital and appeared in court Thursday morning. He is facing two counts of felony assault on an officer, each of which carry a maximum sentence of 252 months in jail.

Michael Lennie Greer, 56, of Walkertown, remains in jail with a secured bond of $50,000 after having been shot by deputies during a Monday night confrontation.

According to the Forsyth County Sheriffs Office, two deputies responded to a 911 call in reference to a suspicious person. Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough said deputies saw Greer with a firearm and that he did not comply with the commands given by deputies.

A warrant for Greers arrest states that Greer pointed his firearm, a revolver, at the two deputies.

The sheriffs office said the deputies were immediately placed on administrative leave. Law enforcement officers are typically put on administrative leave after such incidents.

The SBI is now investigating the shooting, which is standard procedure in such cases. The sheriffs office said it will also investigate the shooting.
A Nebraska man who had been incarcerated at a low-security prison in Lincoln failed to return to the facility Thursday after he was granted release for a job orientation, authorities said Friday.

Alex Reynoso Vargas is now considered an escapee after he ditched his electronic monitoring device near 22nd and D streets sometime Thursday, the Department of Correctional Services said in a news release.

The 23-year-old had been in state custody since June 2023, when he was sentenced to up to three years in prison for terroristic threats and third-degree domestic assault convictions stemming from charges in Saline County.

Reynoso Vargas  a 5-foot-4-inch Hispanic male who has black hair, brown eyes and weighs 160 pounds  was set to be released in August, according to the news release.

Department officials asked anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to contact local authorities or the Nebraska State Patrol.

The facility Reynoso Vargas absconded from is one of two "community custody facilities" the state operates. The other is in Omaha.

Inmates housed at the low-custody facilities are allowed to participate in work opportunities and attend school and religious services with prior approval and without direct supervision.

Photos: 2015 Tecumseh State Prison riot
A Lincoln corrections staff member sustained a concussion after being assaulted by an inmate, according to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services.

The assault occurred April 4, when the inmate at the Reception and Treatment Center punched the staff member in the head multiple times, according to Corrections Department spokesperson Dayne Urbanovsky.

During the initial medical examination after the assault, the staff member was not considered seriously injured. However, the staff member was later diagnosed with a concussion.

The incident is being investigated. Findings will be provided to the county attorney's office to see if criminal prosecution is warranted.

Top Journal Star photos for April 2024
Photojournalist. Professor. Cook. Husband. Friend.

Those are just some of the words used to describe George Tuck, a longtime photojournalist and former University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor, who died Dec. 14 as a result of complications from Alzheimer's disease. He was 81.

Throughout his life, Tuck touched the hearts of countless individuals with his talent, kindness and overall love of the world around him.

"He was always learning and exploring, and his capacity for love and sharing and listening to people was beyond compare," said Jennifer Gutierrez, a longtime friend.

Gutierrez first met Tuck as a freshman at UNL, and remembers walking into his office for the first time. It was a tiny office, no bigger than a walk-in closet, that had floor-to-ceiling wood shelves filled with newspapers and magazines.

"He never met me before but he got up and he said, 'Hello, Jennifer,' and he gave me a hug and that was the beginning of an amazing relationship," Gutierrez said.

Tuck cared so much about his students, Gutierrez said, and he always had five to 10 students in his office, sitting on the floor or his desk, just laughing and talking.

"He loved the students, he never talked about himself, and it wasn't until many years later that I learned about the many great things he achieved," she said.

Tuck earned his bachelor's degree at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, then went on to work for the Abilene Reporter-News, the Texas Tribune, the Texas Leader, the Associated Press and the Houston Chronicle, among others.

He later received a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis in photojournalism from the University of Missouri.

He was recruited as a professor to help build the photojournalism course at UNL shortly after, kicking off a 33-year career teaching at the university.

Turns out, he was pretty good at it.

We knew how to develop all of our photographs, we knew how to put together the cameras forwards and backwards," Gutierrez said.

She didn't have to wait long after college to put her skills to good use, as during her first job interview, Gutierrez was told to analyze the content, layout, design and photos of a stack of magazines, something her photojournalism professor at UNL already made her an expert at.

George gave me all of that, he gave me the skills, the proficiency, the expertise," Gutierrez said. "I got the job on the spot.

Tuck's photography has been displayed at numerous exhibits, not only across Nebraska and the region, but around the world as well, according to Gutierrez.

"He was good at so many things, but he really was amazing at focusing on lights and shadows and landscapes and people," she said.

Tuck was awarded three sabbaticals from UNL, the first two producing exhibits displayed at the Sheldon Museum of Art, and the third resulting in one of his best works  "Flat Places and Interesting People," photographing the essence of the Midwest.

No one knew more about his talents than Randy Hampton, a longtime photojournalist and friend of Tuck for 50 years. The two met at a photography event in 1970, the first weekend they were both in Lincoln.

"I found him to be a very likable person, he was very interested in sharing his knowledge with anyone who wanted to learn. He's just a nice guy, we liked each other right away," Hampton said.

Hampton taught photojournalism courses at the journalism school at UNL alongside Tuck.

"It was how friends should be, I could count on him, if I needed something he was there," Hampton said. "As a colleague, he was very professional and always on top of his game, he would help anybody that needed help with a project or an assignment or anybody who was having problems in the class."

One of Hampton's favorite memories of his friendship with Tuck was a trip they took together in Colorado, where they spent five days photographing mountain landscapes.

Hampton said he was always blown away by his longtime friend's ability.

"He had the desirable ability to use both sides of his brain (technical and artistic) in photography," Hampton said. "He was hard to beat."

While photography and photojournalism were front and center in Tuck's life, he also loved music, Cherry Garcia ice cream and was an amazing cook.

Gutierrez said he took cooking classes in France, and donated all his notes from those classes to the University of Nebraska culinary arts department.

Gutierrez said that's the kind of person he was, always sharing, always humble, especially when it came to his wife, Mary Lynn Tuck.

"George was amazing and brilliant, but he would call himself the dumb one in the family because Mary Lynn had a PHD, she spoke German, she was just amazing," she said. "It's hard to speak about George without Mary Lynn."

About seven years ago, Gutierrez said she started noticing some changes with both him and Mary Lynn that worried her.

"I noticed that there weren't people around anymore," she said. "I learned that I was the only one visiting them every month."

After this, Gutierrez reached out to Paul and Sherri Johnson, Tuck's neighbors, who he and Mary Lynn asked to be their power of attorney. Gutierrez spoke with them about the early signs of forgetfulness and dementia she was noticing with George, and some other health issues involving Mary Lynn.

Mary Lynn died from brain cancer just a couple years after that conversation. Gutierrez, along with several of the couple's close friends, promised her they would take care of her husband.

To do this, they formed a group they called, "Team Tuck."

"Team Tuck was a team of about seven or eight people, and we took care of George," Gutierrez said. "Every Friday, I would go over and take him out, and we would go to Holmes Lake and walk around or we'd go to lunch."

Everyone involved had a day or two out of the week that they'd spend with Tuck, so he didn't have to be alone.

"We would all team up together to take care of him like he loved and took care of all of us his entire life," Gutierrez said.

In honor of Tuck, a celebration of life will be held on Saturday, from 1-4 p.m. at the Andersen College of Journalism at UNL. The event will consist of several speakers and a slideshow of Tuck's life.

Portraits and prints from Tuck's work over the years will be on sale for people in the form of a "free will" donation. All funds will go directly to the scholarship fund at the school of journalism, per Tuck's request.

"It's really a celebration, and we hope that that joy just continues to radiate from the people that are there and when they go home and they look at those prints or photographs they'll think of him," Gutierrez said.

Tuck wrote his own obituary, and donated his body and all usable organs to the Nebraska Anatomical Board. There will be no funeral service, per his request.

Top Journal Star photos for April 2024
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The United States and Japan will launch a military industrial council to discuss co-production of defense weapons, a senior U.S. official has said, in another sign of stepped-up security cooperation amid China's assertiveness, Russia's war in Ukraine and North Korea's military threats, Azernews reports, citing Yonhap.

The official previewed Wednesday's summit between President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, which he said would produce an array of agreements, including the first-ever change in the alliance's force structure and cooperation in lunar exploration and artificial intelligence research.

"We're going to have a military industrial council that will evaluate where we can co-produce defense weapons," the official said during an online press briefing Tuesday.

The plan for the council came after Japan eased its restrictions on military equipment exports amid its continued push for a greater role in global security -- a move that created an opening for deeper defense industrial cooperation with the U.S.

Japan had long hewed strictly to the export curbs due to its post-war exclusively defense-oriented principles and war-renouncing constitution.

"Japan's industrial capacity and strength that had always been on the sidelines will come to bear on one of the weak points right now that we have, which is we don't have really the bandwidth of the defense production capacity that we need for strategic obligations," the official said.

"There will also be pieces as related to the integrated missile defense system with Australia, the United States and Japan."

The official also noted that on the occasion of the summit, the two sides will announce the first-ever change in the alliance's force structure to "make the most" of Japan's new joint operations center.

He was apparently referring to ongoing efforts to modernize the alliance's force structure to ensure seamless coordination between the U.S. Forces Japan and the joint operations command, which Japan's Self-Defense Forces seek to launch reportedly at the end of the year.

The official also touched on expected summit agreements on lunar exploration with Japan being a "full" partner in the domain, research on artificial intelligence between the two countries' private institutes and a scholarship program for Japanese students to study in the U.S.

Another senior U.S. official touted the Biden-Kishida summit as a "remarkable and historic" one.

"I do want to underscore the progress and future-oriented stance of our alliance that is on display in Haiti, in Ukraine, in Southeast Asia, in the Pacific," the official said. "Everywhere that American purpose is being put to the test, Japan is by our side. You will see that clearly animated in our deliverables."

On Thursday, Kishida is set to deliver a speech to a joint meeting of Congress and attend the first-ever trilateral summit with Biden and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Looking back at days of heroism, humiliation in "heroic county" on roof of world

Xinhua) 08:25, April 12, 2024

LHASA, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Nyima Phuntsok, 83, donned a Tibetan hat and leaned on his cane as he made his way to an earthen wall that outlasts his age. He took off his hat, bowed his head, and observed a moment of silence.

The earthen wall, now part of the site of Qumigxung heroes monument, located east of the highway crossing Tuna Township under the city of Xigaze in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, was built by the Tibetan soldiers 120 years ago to defend against the British invasion. It still bears the scars of the bullets from long ago.

Besides Nyima Phuntsok, there were numerous tourists paying tribute to the monument.

Phuntsok Dorje, Party secretary of Tuna, said the site receives dozens of visitors a day, including locals, students and tourists.

When Nyima Phuntsok was a child, elders in the village told stories of the past, which were also etched on a stone tablet at the site that recorded a fateful date in Tibetan, Chinese, and English: March 31, 1904.

On that day, over 1,400 Tibetan soldiers gathered to block the invading British force. After several failed attempts to break through, the British attacked Qumigxung under the pretext of negotiation, killing many Tibetan defenders.

The old man waved his cane emotionally when recalling childhood stories. "We lost the war because we were too weak," Nyima Phuntsok said. "How could improvised firearms stand a chance against strong weapons? I follow news about China and the world every day, seeing our country get stronger so that such a tragedy will never recur."

This photo taken on March 25, 2016 shows a view of Tsechen Monastery in Gyantse, Xigaze City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

The region underwent peaceful liberation when Nyima Phuntsok was 10 and the democratic reform began when he turned 18. Over the decades, Xizang has seen rapid development. In 2023, the per capita income in Tuna was close to 20,000 yuan (about 2,765 U.S. dollars). Local people's lives have undergone tremendous changes.

Several sites commemorating past tragedies from Qumigxung to Gyantse County mark the route the British force took 120 years ago.

Monasteries along the route were ransacked at the time. According to the records written by then British war correspondent Edwund Candler, the wealth the force looted from the Tsechen Monastery in Gyantse "could only be carried away by 400 mules, including rare religious scriptures, statues, and many ritual implements."

After looting, British artillery fire destroyed nearly 60 halls for the Buddha, where the monks died heroically.

A stretch of ancient white castles now stands on Mt. Dzongri in Gyantse. The site gave Gyantse county its name, meaning "the peak of victory" in the Tibetan language.

Old photos are displayed in a memorial hall at the foot of the mountain, alongside a series of illustrations from the British "The Graphic" newspaper in 1904.

One caption describes how the British soldiers rigged up a shelter behind the gun. "Most of the Jong works (defense works) were within range of the gun, which invariably sent forth a spatter of bullets the moment a Tibetan showed himself," said the newspaper.

This photo taken on March 27, 2024 shows a view of the earthen wall with the scars of bullets at the site of Qumigxung heroes monument located east of the highway crossing Tuna Township, Xigaze City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Huang Yaoman)

"This year marks the 120th anniversary of the anti-British resistance in Gyantse," said Phurbu Tsering, a commentator at the memorial hall. "In June, the memorial hall will undergo renovation and expansion. More people will learn about this part of history."

The cultural tourism scenic area of the heroic and ancient county of Gyantse, a national 4A-level scenic spot, attracted more than 530,000 visitors in 2023.

During the British invasion in 1904, countless precious Tibetan artifacts and classic Tibetan texts were looted, eventually ending up in major British libraries and museums.

A search on the website of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, one of the largest national museums in the UK, reveals that it holds 958 Xizang-related artifacts, 39 of which are marked as related to the "expedition to Tibet" by Francis Edward Younghusband, a British invader, from 1903 to 1904.

The museum's website describes a 16th-century gilt bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni as "it was reportedly collected during the British expedition to Lhasa in 1904."

On June 14, 2022, Erin L. Thompson, an associate professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, said on social media that a statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara in the Victoria and Albert Museum was looted by Younghusband in Xizang.

The museum was then forced to change the description of the exhibited artifacts, but many descriptions on the official website remain unaltered.

This photo taken on March 16, 2022 shows a view of ancient white castles on Mt. Dzongri in Gyantse, Xigaze City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Liang Junyan, a researcher at the institute of history of the China Tibetology Research Center, said half-jokingly: "You can't talk about weight with women, salary with men, or the origin of artifacts with British museums."

"If the artifacts were truly 'collected,' why did those ancient buildings in Gyantse that had stood for thousands of years turn into ruins?" said Phurbu Tsering.

Nowadays, when people look down from Mt. Dzongri, they can see the neatly arranged Tibetan-style bungalows across the entire county of Gyantse, as well as a central square surrounded by cars.

People are shuttling back and forth, shopping or chatting, enjoying their time. Some gather to chat at the pavilion in the middle of a lake at the foot of the mountain.

The heroic county, with an average altitude of over 4,000 meters, has developed rapidly over the past century. It is not only a transportation hub, but also a national historic and cultural county.

The year of wooden loong in the Tibetan calendar "reincarnates" from 120 years ago to this year, but it is probably the only thing the two years have in common.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Uzbekistan plans to implement new projects worth $500 million in its Basalt Uzbekistan cluster, Azernews reports.

This was announced during President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev's visit to the Basalt Uzbekistan cluster in the Jizzakh region, where he was presented with the production volume of the cluster.

Within the framework of these projects, the country intends to manufacture 20 types of products with high added value.

Furthermore, a total of 45,000 tons of products worth 554 billion soums were manufactured in the Basalt Uzbekistan cluster last year. A total of 80 percent of the goods were exported to the US, UK, Poland, Italy, Czech Republic, Georgia, Russia, Turkiye, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

Basfiber Trade (one of the enterprises in the cluster) plans to create capacities for the production of 25,000 tons of basalt fiber and fabric next year. Uzbekistan has received equipment worth $145 million. The country plans to exceed the export volume by 90 percent within the framework of the project.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan's enterprises manufactured industrial products worth 96.9 trillion soums ($7.7 billion) from January through February 2024.

As per data from Uzbekistan's Statistics Agency, in the structure of production, the largest specific weight falls on the enterprises of the manufacturing industry (77.8 percent), the output of which amounted to 75.4 trillion soums ($5.9 billion).
On 11 April Mexicos government led by Presidentfiled a formal request for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to suspend Ecuadors membership of the United Nations (UN) until it apologises for forcing entry into the Mexican embassy in Quito on 5 April.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold a meeting of the Security Council today.

Azernews reports that Dmitry Peskov, secretary of the press service of the Kremlin, said this.

He did not say what issues will be discussed at the meeting.
On 11 April Brazils Presidentvetoed part of a bill (PL 2253/2022) which proposed abolishing the right for some prisoners to be given temporary leave to be re-united with loved ones on special occasions.

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Cities and towns in western Russia and Kazakhstan are facing heavy flooding.

Europe's third-longest river, the Ural, burst a dam causing floods that have forced over 110,000 people to flee and left parts of the Russian city of Orenburg under water.

Russian officials helped displaced homeowners as water levels rose on the Ural River, officials said Wednesday. Russias government has declared the situation a federal emergency.

The river's water level in the city of Orenburg was above 10 meters Wednesday, state news media reported. Photos shared by Russian news services showed roads covered in water, flooded fields and houses partly under water.

People in Orsk gathered in a rare protest on Monday. They were calling for compensation after their homes were damaged. Protests are unusual in Russia, where officials have suppressed dissent following the invasion of Ukraine.

Here are some details about what is happening and why:

Which areas are affected?

The worst hit areas in Russia are south of the Ural Mountains, about 1,200 kilometers east of Moscow. Officials declared emergencies in the Orenburg and Kurgan regions of the Urals and in the Tyumen region of Siberia.

In Kazakhstan, cities in the west and north were hit hard. There were also reports of flooding in the east. Most of the areas border Russia and are crossed by major rivers.

What are the human and economic impacts?

So far, more than 96,000 people have evacuated in Kazakhstan, and at least 12,000 people evacuated in Russia. Reports say about 10,500 homes have been flooded in Russia and more than 3,000 homes in Kazakhstan.

Russia's Orsk oil refinery had been closed to avoid environmental damage.

Heavy property damage has also been reported. Some of the flooded areas are important to wheat production. Russia is the world's biggest wheat exporter.

Over 8,000 farm animals have been killed by floods in Kazakhstan. The agriculture ministry has deployed a special group to remove dead animals to prevent the spread of disease.

What is the cause of the flood?

Spring flooding is common across Russia. The winter snows melt causing the water levels of the rivers of Russia and Central Asia to rise. This year, a combination of influences led to unusually severe flooding.

Russian emergency officials said the soil was waterlogged before winter and then was frozen under heavy snow. The snow melted quickly as spring temperatures rose. There also was a lot of rain in the spring.

Vladimir Yakushev is the Presidential Plenipotentiary in the Urals Region. Russian media said he suggested that Kazakhstan was to blame for not coordinating the release of water more effectively.

Following the protests in Orsk, Russian state news agency Tass reported that the governor of the Orenburg Region promised compensation payments to those affected. They include $108 a month for six months to people forced out of their homes by the floods.

Officials launched a criminal investigation into suspected construction violations that may have caused the Ural dam to break.

Local authorities said the dam could withstand water levels up to 5.5 meters. On Sunday, Russias water level information site AllRivers said the level in Orsk reached 9.7 meters.

Im Dan Novak.

Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by Reuters and the Associated Press.

______________________________________

Words in This Story

compensation  n. payments for losses that a person suffered

evacuate v. to leave or to be moved from a place to avoid a dangerous situation or to flee an emergency

waterlogged  adj. completely full of water; not able to take any more water

region  n. a place that different from other places around it for political, ethnic or geographical reasons

coordinate v. to plan for people or groups to work together to complete a complex job or task
Next time you see a globe, close your eyes, and turn it quickly so it spins. Then stop it with your finger.

Chances are that you will stop on a body of water. That is because water covers 71 percent of the Earths surface.

If you do not land on water, maybe you will discover a place you have never visited, or even knew about. Depending on the age of the globe, the place might be called something other than what it is called today. Politics changes national borders and city names over time.

You can use a globe to see what is on the other side of the world from where you are. Looking at a globe might make you think more about the April 8 eclipse, when the moon temporarily blocked the sun as seen from parts of the Earth.

Peter Bellerby makes globes in London. He thinks the human interest in finding our place in the cosmos is why globes remain popular. This is the case although computers and smart phones can tell us exactly where we are and where we are going.

Bellerby made a globe in 2008 for his fathers birthday. Although it cost a lot of money, the experience inspired him. He started a globe-making business. Sixteen years later, he has more than 20 people who work with him. They are artists, mapmakers and woodworkers.

You dont go onto Google Earth to get inspired, he said. Bellerbys studio is filled with globes in different states of completion. A globe is very much something that connects you to the planet that we live on.

Over time, Bellerby has also become an expert in world politics and borders. He said he often talks with officials in areas such as the Middle East, India, China and North Africa to be sure his globes have the correct markings.

There is also the question of whether globes are useful or only works of art. Because they must be started and completed, they will only be a picture in time. National borders, for example, change. A globe shows things as they were at the time it was made.

Jan Mokre is vice president of the International Coronelli Society for the Study of Globes in Vienna, Austria. Mokre said globes are important because people like to turn them, and the maps are artistic works. Perhaps a certain nostalgia effect also plays a role, just as old cars and mechanical watches still exert a certain attraction on people, Mokre said.

Joshua Nall directs the Whipple Museum of the History of Science in Cambridge, England. He noted that technology such as Google Earth gives students more information about the world. However, a physical globe shows the learning, the erudition, the political interests of its owner. Nall added that people are buying globes as beautiful things to have in their homes.

Bellerbys globes are works of art. His small ones cost about $1,900 while the largest ones, which are more than one meter in diameter, can be tens of thousands of dollars. The company makes about 600 globes per year.

The process begins with the sphere itself and progresses to placing map pieces, called gores, on the globe. The gores fit together to completely cover the sphere.

Artists then work to decorate the globe with paint  using deep blue and green for the oceans and yellow, green and brown for the land. The designs can be complex. They can include mountains, sea creatures  even dragons.

Different kinds of people buy Bellerbys products. They include people who want a family gift, political leaders, art collectors and movie studios. His globes have been in movies including Hugo and Tetris.

One of the 1.2-meter models, called the Churchill, is on display in a museum in Berlin, Germany.

While globes are works of art, Bellerby said, Globemaking is a political minefield.

For example, China does not recognize Taiwan as a country. Morocco does not recognize Western Sahara. India and Pakistan dispute their northern border. Many Arab countries, such as Lebanon, do not recognize Israel.

If Bellerby makes a globe for a foreign buyer, a mistake about a sensitive name or border could cause customs officials to hold up a costly sale. Bellerbys artists mark disputed borders on the globe. He said: We cannot change or rewrite history.

History of globes

The oldest surviving globe dates to about 1492. It is called the Erdapfel which is German, for Earth apple. A German explorer who worked for the king of Portugal made the globe. It contains details such as where valuable goods could be found and trade rules. However, it does not show North or South America since Europeans did not yet know about them.

The German National Museum has the globe, known as the Behaim Globe for the explorer who created it. The museum notes that the globe shows how much the creation of our modern world was based on the violent appropriation of raw materials, the slave trade and plantation farming.

The museum calls the period the first stage of European subjugation and division of the world.

Two of the worlds most famous globes were created about 450 years later, for British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. They were each 1.2 meters in diameter.

The Weber Costello company near Chicago, Illinois created the globes with the help of 50 government geographers, mapmakers and draftsmen. The Roosevelt globe is at the former Presidents library in New York and Churchills is in his family home in Kent, England.

Bellerby wrote that the globes were supposed to help the leaders make war plans during World War II. But, in reality, the gifts were a simple PR (public relations) exercise, an important weapon in modern warfare.

Im Dan Friedell. And I'm Gena Bennett.

Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English based on a report by the Associated Press.

_____________________________________

Words in This Story

globe n. a map of the world that is round like the Earth is

cosmos n. a word for the universe

inspire v. to supply ideas to someone so they want to take up some effort

studio n. a place where artistic kinds of work is done

nostalgia n. a feeling of longing for a past time or for ones home

exert v. to put into action

erudition n. learning that comes from books and scholarship

sphere n. a three-dimensional round form

appropriation n. the process of taking something for ones own use

subjugation n. the act of placing something completely under control

We want to hear from you. Have you ever had, or do you still have, a globe?
In this weeks Everyday Grammar, we continue a trip around the world. But, instead of seeing famous places, we will learn about wonderful foods of different countries. We will also learn about grammar and writing along the way.

Background

In a recent lesson, we explored how to describe a national dish. We asked our listeners and readers around the world to write us messages about their countrys national dish.

Today, we give feedback on some of the writing that we received.

Ukraine

Let's start in Ukraine.

Here is part of a message Yanina wrote to us:

Borsch is the national dish of Ukraine. Borsch consists of water, vegetables, meat and spices.

Yaninas message was wonderful. Yanina used the structures we described in our previous lesson  the phrasal verb consist of, as well as exact nouns: water, meat, and spices.

Our main suggestion is to include a few more details about borsch. Perhaps use adjectives such as savory, spicy, or rich. For example, you might say, Borsch is a rich, savory dish that consists of water, vegetables, meat, and spices.

Taiwan

Next, we read part of a message from Mei in Taiwan.

Beef noodle is the national dish of Taiwan. It is a cozy dish that consists of noodles, boneless beef, and full of vegetables.

Every year, the Taipei International Beef Noodle Festival holds a competition to find Taiwans best beef noodle soup.

Our main suggestions are to include soup at the beginning of the message and remove full of from its position before the noun vegetables. We might change the first sentence to this:

Beef noodle soup is the national dish of Taiwan. It is a cozy dish that consists of noodles, boneless beef, and vegetables.

We especially enjoyed Meis use of the adjective cozy. It suggests warmth and comfort. The term really helps bring the dish to life!

Brazil

Now lets learn about Brazils national dish. Here is part of a message from Leonardo:

Feijoada is the national dish of Brazil. It's a delicious dish that consists of rice, black beans, pork and kale! And get better when you have it drinking caipirinha!

Leonardos message described the dish very well. Our main suggestions are for the final sentence. We suggest including a subject  as in the dish, - and including the short word with. Also, a caipirinha is the national alcoholic drink of Brazil. We might update the sentence to something like this:

And the dish gets better when you drink a caipirinha with it!

Russia

Now lets turn to part of a message from Julia in Russia.

The traditional national dish is soup shchi or cabbage soup. It is in two versions. In first version the main ingredient is fresh cabbage, in second version the main ingredient is sauerkraut.

Julias message was very interesting because it explored two versions of the same dish. One with fresh cabbage and one with preserved, or pickled cabbage, known as sauerkraut. Our main suggestions are to include known as in the first sentence and to change the structure of the following sentences a little. One way to update the message might be like this:

The traditional national dish is a soup known as shchi or cabbage soup. There are two versions of it. In the first version, the main ingredient is fresh cabbage. In the second version, the main ingredient is sauerkraut.

Iran

Finally, lets examine part of a message from Firouzeh. The message describes Irans national dish.

Ghormeh Sabzi is the national dish of Iran. It is main dish that consist of Red beans, Vegetable, Dried Lemo , and Meat . It is served with rice.

Firouzehs message was clear and easy to understand. Our central suggestions are to remove main and add an s to the verb consist. Also, be sure to not capitalize the nouns vegetable, meat, and so on. These nouns are not capitalized because they are not at the beginning of a sentence and are not proper nouns. That means they are not names of people or places for example.

We might update the message to something like this:

Ghormeh sabzi is the national dish of Iran. It is a dish that consists of red beans, vegetables, dried limes, and meat. It is served with rice.

Closing thoughts

We enjoyed reading all the messages sent to us by our readers and listeners. Of course, there were messages that we did not include in this lesson or the previous lesson. We wish that we could have included all of them!

Still, we hope that everyone can take some ideas from todays report. We also hope that you have learned a little about the wonderful kinds of dishes that exist in the world!

Im John Russell.

John Russell wrote this lesson for VOA Learning English.

____________________________________

Words in This Story

consist of  phrasal verb to be formed or made up of things

savory  adj. having a salty, tasty quality that is not sweet or sour

cozy  adj. small, comfortable, and warm; friendly and pleasant

caipirinha  n. a kind of mixed Brazilian alcoholic drink

capitalize  v. to use a capital letter to write a letter of the alphabet
In the middle of the 20th century, computer scientists dreamed of building a computer as smart as humans. Now, tech companies are in a race to build it.

Called artificial general intelligence, or AGI, the systems would do much more than current AI technology. AGI would be as good as humans in many areas of human thinking. These include planning, problem solving, and learning from experience.

Google, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon and Chat-GPT maker OpenAI are all working to develop AGI.

At the same time, governments and leading AI scientists worry about ways the technology could be dangerous for humanity.

AGI development

As artificial intelligence has developed, the meaning of AGI has changed over time.

Geoffrey Hinton is a scientist who helped create the first AI systems. He told The Associated Press that 20 years ago, people would have agreed that a system like Chat-GPT had general intelligence. But now people think AGI should be able to do more than what Chat-GPT does.

Still, scientists have not yet agreed on a clear definition of AGI. I dont think there is agreement on what the term means, Hinton said by email.

Most current artificial intelligence systems are generative AI. That means they produce things such as texts or images. While generative AI is mainly limited to such tasks, AGI could do many different kinds of work.

Pei Wang is a professor who teaches an AGI course at Temple University in the American state of Pennsylvania. He helped organize the first AGI conference in 2008. He said that adding the letter G to AI sent an important message. It showed that computer scientists still want to do the big thing. We dont want to build tools. We want to build a thinking machine, Wang said.

Finding agreement on how to measure AGI is one of the issues that will be discussed next month at an AGI conference in Vienna, Austria.

This really needs a communitys effort and attention so that mutually we can agree on some sort of classifications of AGI, said Jiaxuan You. He is an assistant professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

OpenAI, based in the state of California, says its nonprofit board of directors will decide when its systems have reached AGI. OpenAI defines AGI as a system that can outperform humans at most economically valuable work.

If OpenAI develops AGI, its partner Microsoft will not have the rights to make money from it. In 2020, Microsoft signed an agreement with OpenAI that gave Microsoft the rights to OpenAIs AI models. However, that agreement is supposed to end once OpenAI has created AGI.

Is AGI dangerous?

Last year the 76-year-old Hinton quit his job at Google. He wanted to share his worries about the possible dangers of AI.

A recent study in the journal Science also warned of AI systems able to plan for the future.

Michael Cohen is a researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, and lead writer of the study. He said he worries that an AGI system might create plans to make humans disappear.

I hope weve made the case that people in government (need) to start thinking seriously about exactly what regulations we need to address this problem, Cohen said.

Push to develop AGI

Some people in the tech industry want to develop AGI slowly and carefully. Still, companies are competing to develop the systems.

London-based Deep Mind was founded in 2010 with the goal of developing AGI. It is now owned by Google. OpenAI was founded in 2015 to develop AGI, but with the added goal of making the technology safe.

In January, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said his companys long-term goal was to build full general intelligence.

At Amazon, the head scientist for the voice assistant Alexa changed job titles to become head scientist for AGI.

You, the University of Illinois researcher, said working on AGI may help tech companies find the most talented computer scientists. He said many researchers would choose to work on AGI instead of generative AI.

I'm Andrew Smith. And I'm Dorothy Gundy.

Matt OBrian wrote this story for The Associated Press. Andrew Smith adapted it for VOA Learning English.

______________________________________________

Words in This Story

task n. - a job, function, or piece of work to do

mutually adv. - both, together

classification n. - a system of organization or putting into groups
China has accused the European Union of protectionism and reckless distortion of the definition of subsidies in response to a new EU investigation into Chinese wind turbine makers.

A Chinese trade remedies official made solemn representations on the issue in a meeting in Brussels yesterday [Macau time] with Martin Lukas, the EU director general for trade defense, the Commerce Ministry said.

The European sides reckless distortion of the definition of subsidies, and the lack of openness and transparency in procedural standards during the investigation, is a protectionist act that harms the fair competition environment in the name of fair competition, the statement said.

The investigation opened by the European Union earlier this week is the latest against Chinese companies announced in the past two months under a new EU regulation.

The investigation will look into whether Chinese subsidies are giving wind turbine companies an unfair advantage in the competition for projects in five member countries: Spain, Greece, France, Romania and Bulgaria.

Were making full use of the tools that we have, the EU commissioner for competition, Margrethe Vestager, said in announcing the move.

A Chinese business group in Europe described the investigations as an act of economic coercion that undermines the EUs commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

This action sends a detrimental signal to the world, suggesting discrimination against Chinese enterprises and endorsing protectionism, the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU said in a statement.

The EU also announced investigations last week into two Chinese solar panel makers bidding for a 455-megawatt solar park in Romania. An earlier EU probe into the procurement of 20 electric trains in Bulgaria was dropped last month after the Chinese bidder withdrew from the competition.

Vestager, delivering a speech in the United States on technology and politics, called the approach whack-a-mole and said the EU needs to address the issue in a more systemic way.

And we need it before it is too late, she said, according to a text of her prepared remarks. We cant afford to see what happened on solar panels, happening again on electric vehicles, wind or essential chips.

China thinks the investigations are targeting an obvious direction, undermining the confidence of Chinese companies to invest and trade in Europe and affecting global efforts to combat climate change. the Commerce Ministry statement said.

The EU also launched an investigation last October into Chinese subsidies for electric vehicles as exports from China to Europe rise.

Chinas vehicle exports, including trucks and buses, rose 33.2% in the first three months of this year to 1.3 million units, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers said. Exports of electric vehicles were up 7.3% to 248,000 units. Passenger cars accounted for 1.1 million of the total.

The U.S. treasury secretary, Janet Yellen, raised similar concerns on a recent visit to China. She called for changes in a Chinese industrial strategy that she said has the potential to flood our markets with exports that make it difficult for American firms to compete.

A German industry representative said that inexpensive Chinese goods contribute to Europes environmental goals in the short-term but will destroy our industry in the medium term.

We have a dilemma here, said Maximillian Butek, the head of the German Chamber of Commerce in East China. Because now at the moment its solar, the next could be maybe wind power, etc. So this is a balance the politicians need to find.

The chamber wants German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, on his visit to China next week, to raise German company concerns about access to the Chinese market.

Complaints about unfair trade practices are not new, but they have taken on increased importance with the emergence of Chinese companies as competitors both in China and abroad.

Especially against the background of increased entry of Chinese providers into the European market, a level playing field must be implemented, the German Chamber said in a survey of member companies released this week. KEN MORITSUGU, BEIJING, MDT/AP
China yesterday announced rare sanctions against two U.S. defense companies over what it said is their support for arms sales to Taiwan.

The announcement freezes the assets of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and General Dynamics Land Systems held within China. It also bars the companies management from entering the country.

Filings show General Dynamics operates a half-dozen Gulfstream and jet aviation services operations in China, which remains heavily reliant on foreign aerospace technology even as it attempts to build its own presence in the field.

The company helps make the Abrams tank being purchased by Taiwan to replace outdated armor intended to deter or resist an invasion from China.

General Atomics produces the Predator and Reaper drones used by the U.S. military. Chinese authorities did not go into details on the companys alleged involvement with supplying arms to Taiwan.

Beijing has long threatened such sanctions, but has rarely issued them as its economy reels from the COVID-19 pandemic, high unemployment and a sharp decline in foreign investment.

The continued U.S. arms sales to Chinas Taiwan region seriously violate the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-U.S. joint communiques, interfere in Chinas internal affairs, and undermine Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity, Chinas Foreign Ministry said in a statement. It insists that the mainland and the island to which Chiang Kai-sheks Nationalist forces fled amid civil war in 1949 remain part of a single Chinese nation.

Sanctions were leveled under Beijings recently enacted Law of the Peoples Republic of China on Countering Foreign Sanctions.

General Dynamics fully owned entities are registered in Hong Kong, the southern Chinese semi-autonomous city over which Beijing has steadily been increasing its political and economic control.

Despite their lack of formal diplomatic ties  a concession Washington made to Beijing when they established relations in 1979  the U.S. remains Taiwans most important source of diplomatic support and supplier of military hardware from fighter jets to air defense systems.

Taiwan has also been investing heavily in its own defense industry, producing sophisticated missiles and submarines.

China had 14 warplanes and six navy ships operating around Taiwan on Wednesday and Thursday, with six of the aircraft crossing into Taiwans air defense identification zone. MDT/AP
Guerrillas from the Karen ethnic minority yesterday claimed to have captured the last of the armys outposts in Myawaddy district in eastern Myanmar, virtually clearing the way for them to take over Myawaddy town, the major crossing point for trade with Thailand.

The Karen National Union, the ethnic groups leading political body, said in a statement posted on Facebook that its armed wing, acting together with the affiliated Karen National Defense Organization and allied pro-democracy forces, had captured the garrison of the armys Infantry Battalion 275, about 4 kilometers to the west of Myawaddy, before dawn yesterday, after besieging it since the start of the week.

The fall of Myawaddy would be another major setback in the armys war against resistance forces since last October, when an alliance of three other ethnic rebel groups launched an offensive in the countrys northeast.

Over the past five months, the army has been routed in northern Shan state, where it ceded control of several border crossings with China, and in Rakhine state in the west, and is facing active challenges elsewhere.

The nationwide conflict in Myanmar began after the army ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021 and suppressed widespread nonviolent protests that sought a return to democratic rule.

Myawaddy, in Kayin state, is opposite the Thai district of Mae Sot in Tak province and is connected by two bridges across the Moei River It is Myanmars most active trading post with Thailand, and the principal town of Myawaddy district.

The fighting in Myawaddy has alarmed officials in Bangkok, who fear the prospect of large numbers of people fleeing across the border. Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said Tuesday that Thailand can accommodate about 100,000 people in safe areas on a temporary basis. Mae Sot district has in the past sheltered thousands of Myanmar villagers seeking safety.

With Infantry Battalion 275 garrisons capture, all army outposts in the township have been seized and the resistance groups will pursue those soldiers who remain at large, said the statement from the KNU.

We want to inform the public not to fear and to cooperate with us, the statement said.

In a separate statement, the KNU said retreating soldiers seeking to cross into Thailand for refuge were hiding on the Myanmar side of the No.2 Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Bridge.

Photos carried by Thai media showed men they identified as Myanmar soldiers resting by the bridge.

A Karen guerrilla involved in the resistance offensive told the Associated Press that their combined forces had seized the Infantry Battalion 275 garrison late Wednesday night.

The guerrilla, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to release information, said the resistance forces collected weapons from the garrison. The KNU statement included photos of what it said were captured weapons.

A journalist covering the fighting in the area also confirmed the seizure of the garrison and weapons, saying the soldiers withdrew from the garrison overnight. He along with other individuals in Myawaddy willing to speak about the situation, spoke on condition of anonymity because of fear for their safety.

A resident of Myawaddy living near the garrison told the AP by phone that the retreat of the soldiers came after the Border Guard Force units negotiated between the army and the combined resistance force. He said a jet fighter dropped two bombs near the garrison at 10:30 a.m. yesterday but no casualties were reported.

The Border Guard Force units in Kayin state are nominally affiliated with the military but announced last month they were cutting their ties and establishing themselves independently under the name of the Karen National Army.

The Karen National Union recently opened an office in Myawaddy jointly with another group, the Karen National Liberation Army-Peace Council. A representative from that office confirmed to the AP that the new Karen National Army was playing in a major role in negotiations between the resistance and the Myanmar military.

The representative said the KNA had taken control of security in Myawaddy town since fighting in the area began early last month.

He said the Karen National Army units had pledged to Myawaddys residents that they would try to not let a single bullet hit the town, and were patrolling and taking other security measures,

Another Myawaddy resident also told the AP that while he was driving in the town he saw hundreds of people evidently seeking to cross into Mae Sot in Thailand at the bridge checkpoints. GRANT PECK, BANGKOK, MDT/AP
Lawmakers Ma Chi Seng and Pang Chuan propose the establishment of Zheng Guanying Road near public cultural facilities in the Zone A, in bid to honor the Chinese reformist from Guangdong.

This proposal aims to honor, restore and establish Zheng Guanying Road near the large-scale public cultural facilities in Zone A, to highlight Macaus position and role in the historical process of national development and use this as a way to strengthen the patriotism and love for Macau according to the joint proposal.

Zheng Guanying, a prominent figure in modern China, was born in Yongmo Village, Xiangshan County in 1842 and spent a significant amount of time in Macau. He embarked on a path of westernization at the age of 18 and held various positions in Shanghai, including the Shanghai Telegraph Bureau and the Kaiping Mining Co., Ltd.

He later settled in Macau and wrote influential works such as Words of Warning to a Prosperous Age which advocates self-strengthening and social and economic reforms in Qing China. Zheng Guanying was a reformist thinker and industrialist, and his ideas had a profound impact on the modernization process in China.

In the 1990s, a road in Macau was named after him, but it was later removed in 2007 due to urban development needs.

Staff Reporter
The delimitation of Armenia-Georgia border is currently two-thirds complete. Both sides are ready to end this long process, which has lasted more than three decades, Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan told journalists, Azernews reports, citing Armenian media.

However, he found it difficult to clarify the dates of the last negotiations between the countries on this issue, suggesting that they could have taken place about three to four years ago.

In January, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said that Armenia and Georgia had agreed to take the measures necessary to complete the border delimitation process.
The SAR and Liaison Office of the Central Peoples Government in Macau will hold the 2024 National Security Education Exhibition for All from April 15 to May 15. The exhibition aims to provide residents with knowledge about national development and security over the past decade. With the theme Overall National Security Concept, 10th Anniversary of Innovation Leading, it will feature sections on security achievements, high-quality development, and Macaus prosperity with central government support.

Related
Two signature Chinese restaurants at MGM properties in Macau have been honored with Best Restaurants Awards 2024 by Tatler Hong Kong. Imperial Court at MGM Macau and Five Foot Road at MGM Cotai received the accolades from the luxury media brand.

Five Foot Road offers a unique Sichuan dining experience curated by Executive Sous Chef Yang Dengquan. Guests can sample the 24 flavor profiles of the Sichuan cuisine, including delicacies like stewed birds nest with chicken.

Nestled in MGM Macaus lobby, Imperial Court showcases Lingnan cuisine with modern twists from Executive Sous Chef Homan Tsui. Dishes pay tribute to the regions culinary traditions using seasonal ingredients.

Founded 40 years ago, Tatlers Dining Guide is a leading authority on luxury dining worldwide. The awards recognize both restaurants exquisite interpretations of Chinese regional cuisine through meticulous techniques and ingredients.
The Macao Polytechnic University (MPU), along with universities in the Greater Bay Area jointly signed the Agreement on the Formation of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Creative Arts Alliance under the framework of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Alliance. The move aims to develop the creative arts system of universities in the three regions. According to the statement, the universities are committed to promoting academic exchanges and collaboration among universities for creative arts practice, research and education.

Related
Lawmaker Jose Pereira Coutinho has painted a dark picture of the local economy, calling on the government to enforce new financial support measures such as the reissuing of electronic consumption cards.

The lawmaker noted that, recently, the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lei Wai Nong, predicted that Macaus economic growth for 2024 could reach 10% but, in reality, the economy seems to be receding.

Recent statistical data on the transactions involving commercial stores and office spaces show that business has been decreasing at a very sharp rate, Pereira Coutinho said, adding, back in 2010 there were 2,451 [of this type of] transaction but in 2023 there were only 299 transactions. We see that there was a decrease of around 820%, i.e., an abrupt drop in this type of transaction.

Making use of the same data from the Statistics and Census Service, the lawmakers added that, even in the residential market, the drop in transactions is also very significant with 21,628 units transacted in 2007 but only 2,879 units in 2023 (-751%).

These data show that, in general, Macaus economy is going from bad to worse with serious social implications while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle to survive due to a lack of customers, he said. He adding that the recent radical changes that have occurred in the gaming industry will further impact the survival of SMEs, namely in the food and beverage sector.

According to the same lawmaker, this situation is due to the slow death situation of the junkets and what is left of the VIP gaming sector, which he fears will soon increase the number of unemployed locals.

I call once again for electronic consumption cards to be distributed to help families in difficulty and thus increase domestic consumption, he said, adding, the government must also increase the pension to match the real living costs due to the increase of the price of essential goods.
A Philippine navy training helicopter crashed near a seaside city, killing the two pilots on board and narrowly missing a fruit market and neighborhood, where some horrified residents ran for their lives, officials and witnesses said yesterday.

Nobody on the ground was injured when the Robinson R22 helicopter crashed near early-morning marketgoers and residents in Cavite City, 21 kilometers south of Manila.

Military spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said the cause of the crash was not immediately known, but the two pilots had executed emergency procedures.

Joann Nicolas Laristan said she was hanging her laundry when she saw the helicopter flying unusually low near a church before it collided with two trees beside an empty workers shed about 50 meters from her home.

I got really scared because the crash happened just nearby, Laristan told The Associated Press. I ran back to my home and grabbed my children.

Other residents said they were roused from sleep by the loud noise of the crash.

Several residents expressed relief that the helicopter did not hit their homes or the nearby public market, which was starting to draw a crowd after daybreak.

Police investigator Armangel Genuino told AP the helicopter took off from Sangley Airport for a routine training flight around Cavite province and crashed less than 10 minutes later.

The instructor pilot and his navy colleague were extracted from the wreckage by paramedics and rescuers but were later declared dead in two hospitals, Genuino said.

The navy mourned the death of the pilots and said an investigation was underway.

No stone will be left unturned as we endeavor to prevent this kind of accident from happening again, a navy statement said.

The Philippine military is among the weakest in the region and has struggled for decades to modernize and strengthen its navy, army and air force while dealing with long-running Muslim and communist insurgencies.

In recent years, it has started to shift its focus to external defense, including in the disputed South China Sea, where the Philippine navy and coast guard have faced an increasingly aggressive Chinese coast guard and suspected militia fleets in high-seas territorial confrontations. MDT/AP
A bizarre and tragic scene unfolded Wednesday. A woman was found dead in Iowa, and authorities said a person of interest in the case, along with a 13-year-old girl, drove toward the Madison area. Along the way, they dropped off a baby at Dane County home.

During a police pursuit, both the man and the teen fled. The girl was found dead in a wooded area and the man, who had run into an occupied home, was later found dead there of an apparent suicide.

Here's what we know.

What happened?

A family in the town of Dunn south of McFarland called authorities around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday and said a couple had dropped an infant off at their home.

Deputies later identified the pair as Alexander C. Grunke, 38, of Middleton, and an unidentified 13-year-old girl. Authorities found their vehicle and tried to pull it over, but the driver sped away.

During the pursuit, both Grunke and the girl fired guns at officers, authorities said.

Sheriff's deputies used tire-deflation devices to stop the car in the town of Albion. The girl ran into the woods, and was later found dead. It is not clear how she died.

Grunke ran into a home. Authorities helped a woman and two children get out of the house, and deputies tried for hours to contact Grunke, who was still inside. Eventually, a robot was sent into the house and Grunke was found dead from an apparent suicide.

Is this connected to a homicide in Iowa?

About 90 minutes after the first call in Dane County, authorities in Dubuque County, Iowa, arrived at the scene of a homicide. Tana Poppe, 32, had died and her 13-year-old daughter and 5-month-old son were missing.

Deputies learned that Grunke, a person of interest in Poppe's death, was involved in a vehicle pursuit in Dane County.

What is known about Alexander Grunke?

Poppe, the victim in Iowa, had petitioned for a restraining order against Grunke twice in 2023. She called him a "predator of children" and was concerned about her daughter's relationship with Grunke.

The girl told authorities at the time that Grunke was like a father to her and her calms her down and loves her like a dad.

In addition to the charges of child abduction, interfering with child custody and domestic violance he was facing, Grunke has a criminal history that includes sexual assault, theft and gun offenses.

In 2007, Grunke, along with his twin brother and another man, were charged with attempting to unearth a woman's corpse and have sex with it. Those charges were initially dismissed since the state did not have a law prohibiting necrophilia at the time.

But they were reinstated after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled sexual intercourse with a corpse violated state laws prohibiting sex with someone who cannot give consent, and he was later convicted of attempted criminal damage to a cemetery, attempted misdemeanor theft and attempted third-degree sex assault.

How are the homeowners in Albion?

The people who lived at the home where Grunke died were displaced while authorities investigated. The woman's sister said the couple needed clothes food gift cards and other help.

Quarry Kennels, which is near the home, posted on its Facebook page that "all family, staff & pets are safe" and asked for patience while they regrouped.
The Madison City Council president is encouraging Ald. Charles Myadze to consider stepping down following allegations of abuse against him by two women.

Council President Jael Currie said that it's ultimately up to Myadze, who represents the North Side, whether he steps down and that the council has no official way to remove him from office.

"While the information we have so far highlights actions he engaged in long before becoming an elected official, the lack of recognition of harm caused and accountability for past actions in Alder Myadze's public response is deeply disappointing," Currie said in an email.

Currie's rebuke of Myadze's response to the allegations echo statements from three of the top Democrats in the state Senate on Thursday, who called Myadze's denial of the claims "problematic."

In a statement, Sens. Kelda Roys, Melissa Agard and Dianne Hesselbein called for survivors of domestic and sexual violence to be believed when they make accusations.

Unfortunately, too often our culture minimizes violence against women and children, while excusing the actions of abusers and perpetrators, the Madison-area senators said.

In a Facebook post, Michelle McKoy said Myadze abused her over the course of their more than seven-year relationship in the early 2000s. Myadzes ex-wife, Jamie Johnson, also accused him of abuse, according to Madison365, which first reported on the allegations.

I have decided to stop being quiet, McCoy said. We need to speak out. Theres more victims out there. If we speak out in numbers he will be stopped.

Myadze did not immediately return a phone call on Thursday.

These allegations are entirely baseless, defamatory, without merit and made solely for the purpose of tarnishing my reputation in the hopes of influencing the upcoming elections, Myadze said in a statement on the citys website on Sunday.

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway declined to weigh in on whether Myadze should step down when asked on Thursday.

"The city supports survivors, and the organizations in our community working against domestic violence," the mayor's office said in a statement. "We take reports of sexual harassment and violence seriously and push for legal accountability in all cases."

City Council elections will be held in April 2025.

Charging toward net zero: The environmental factors electric vehicles don't fix Signs are emerging that it will be difficult for automakers to hit EV climate goals Plug-in EVs and hybrids still rely on burning coal More vehicles, more asphalt
India has appointed a military attache to Armenia for the first time, Azernews reports, citing PTI news agency.

According to the agency, India is appointing military attaches to ten new countries, Armenia included among them.

Some of the countries the New Delhi is appointing attaches to will receive Indian military representatives for the first time. Emphasis is placed on the countries with which India is developing technico-military cooperation.

"10 new military attaches will be created in various countries, with a special emphasis on the countries where weapons are exported," a source told the agency. An Indian military attache was appointed to Armenia for the first time. India has already agreed with Armenia on the supply of Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, Akash short-range antiaircraft missile system, and several other Indian-made weapons.

Djibouti, Ivory Coast, Mozambique, Poland, Tanzania, the Philippines, and Ethiopia will also receive new Indian military representatives.




The countrys booming franchising sector announced Friday a conservative growth forecast of 10 percent to P34 billion in terms of revenues this year from an estimated P30.5 billion in 2023.

Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) president Chris Lim said while the group has yet to firm up its targets, a modest growth of 8 percent to 10 percent is achievable for the industry.

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We actually estimate franchise statistics since there is no regulatory body to oversee the sector. But we are pretty much confident that growth will remain strong as more Filipinos are now aware of franchising as a business concept, Lim said in a briefing during the opening of the Franchise Asia Philippines Expo 2024.

PFA director for membership Sherill Quintana said the revenue projection this year is slower compared to the 12-percent to 15-percent forecast in 2023.

She said it is more prudent to expect slower growth despite the industry growing by leaps and bounds with almost 2,000 brands in the market.

The entry of new foreign concepts and new brands as an offshoot of the 3-day Franchise Asia Philippines 2024, will contribute to the growth of the sector, FAP 2024 overall chairman and PFA director Joey Garcia said.

More than 700 brands are participating in the ongoing FAP Export 2024, including 100 foreign brands.

The group is also positive that the number of franchise outlets would grow by 8 percent to 216,000 in 2024. There are 200,000 franchise stores in the country.

Quintana said foreign brands are aggressively seeking entry into the Philippine market due to its growth potential.

Some of the trending concepts at the 2024 Expo are services franchises like spa, wellness hubs and construction.

The PFA will stage the Franchise Asia Philippines Conference in September 2024.
Japan, the Philippines and the United States voiced serious concern Thursday over Chinas actions in the South China Sea, the nations leaders said, amid a territorial dispute that has become increasingly tense.

We express our serious concerns about the Peoples Republic of Chinas (PRC) dangerous and aggressive behavior in the South China Sea, according to a joint statement by the three leaders after a historic meeting in Washington.
President Marcos on Friday (Manila time) said he is hoping the government would finish all legal requirements for the planned nuclear energy investment in the Philippines by American firm Ultra Safe Nuclear Corp. (USNC).

During a meeting with USNC executives led by CEO Francesco Venmeri in Washington, D.C., Philippine officials updated the President on ongoing legislative measures to provide the legal framework for USNCs investment and operation in the Philippines.

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Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla informed the President that the House of Representatives has already passed the regulatory framework, while legislation on limitation of liability is advancing in the lower chamber.

Youre done already in the House. Okay. So, that the elements that need to be there, the provisions that need to be (included), we can do in the Senate and then theres one of course, is the bicam down the road. So, that would be the process on the  from the government side, Mr. Marcos said.

The meeting follows initial discussions between the President and USNC at Blair House in May last year, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November 2023. USNC also participated in the US Presidential Trade and Investment Mission in March 2024.

The agreement involves a pre-feasibility study to introduce Micro Modular Reactor (MMR) systems to Meralco and explore their potential in the Philippines. Based on the findings, Meralco may pursue a detailed feasibility study for MMR energy system adoption and deployment.

The Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, or the 123 Agreement, was signed by the Philippine and US governments on Nov. 16, 2023, in San Francisco, California.
UNITED NATIONS, New York  Members of the UN Security Council failed to reach a consensus Thursday on a bid by Palestinians for full UN membership, meaning the longshot effort is now likely headed for a more formal council vote.

The Palestinians, who have had observer status at the world body since 2012, have lobbied for years to gain full membership, which would amount to recognition of Palestinian statehood.

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Any request to become a UN member state must first pass through the Security Council  where Israels ally the United States wields a veto  and then be endorsed by the General Assembly.

In light of Israels offensive in Gaza, Palestinians revived a 2011 UN membership application last week, prompting the Security Council to launch a formal review process. This included the ad hoc committee that failed to reach consensus Thursday and was composed of the councils member states.

During its closed-door meeting there was no consensus, said Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the councils rotating presidency for April.

However, two-thirds of the members were in favor of full membership, she said, without specifying which countries.

While the ad hoc committee can only move forward by consensus  loosely speaking, when everyone is in agreement  any Security Council member may now put forth a resolution for vote on the matter.

According to diplomatic sources, a vote could be held April 18, brought forth by Algeria which represents Arab nations on the Council.

Even if the matter were to receive the necessary nine of 15 votes, observers predict a veto from the United States.

Washington maintains the United Nations is not the place for hashing out Palestinian statehood, which it stresses should be the result of an agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.

All we ask for is to take our rightful place among the community of nations, Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour told reporters earlier this week.

The Gaza war began after Hamass unprecedented October 7 attack against Israel left 1,170 people dead, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.

Israels retaliatory offensive has killed at least 33,545 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territorys health ministry.

AFP
Bureau of Immigration (BI) agents on Friday arrested a South Korean wanted by authorities in Seoul for a string of criminal cases involving counterfeit currency trading.

The Bureaus Border Control and Intelligence Unit identified the Korean as Jang Junseok, who was intercepted at the NAIA terminal 1 after attempting to board a Philippine Airlines flight to Busan, South Korea.

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Jang was arrested after his name appeared on the BIs derogatory list, indicating that he is subject of a watchlist order from the bureau as well as of a red notice issued by the Interpol.

He was barred from boarding his flight and brought to the BI warden facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City pending deportation proceedings.

According to BI-Interpol acting chief Jaime Bustamante, a warrant for Jangs arrest was issued by the Daegu district court in South Korea on Feb. 28, 2024, after a case for possession and trading counterfeit currency was filed against him.

He was described as a professional counterfeit currency user who forged South Korean bank notes, used them at will, and engaged in acts that disrupted social order.

Jang reportedly had six prior convictions for the same criminal offense but was released on parole in 2023.

While on parole, Jang allegedly continued to forge bank notes and used a pseudonym to cheat his victims, who were offered the fake bank notes at lower prices compared to the genuine notes.

The value of the currency notes he allegedly forged amounted to more than 30 million won, or about US$22,000.
The Philippines, United States, and Japan have agreed to conduct more combined naval training and exercises together, with Manila expected to receive support for its defense modernization priorities.

In the Joint Vision Statement from leaders of the three countries, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., US President Joe Biden, and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio pledged to strengthen their cooperative efforts to promote domain awareness, along with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

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We resolve to advance trilateral defense cooperation, including through combined naval training and exercises between our three countries and additional partners and by coordinating US and Japanese support for Philippine defense modernization priorities, the statement read.

Among the initiatives planned out are combined training with Southeast Asian regional partners, as well as Japan-Philippines-US humanitarian assistance and disaster response exercise. The exercise could possibly be integrated into trilateral or multilateral activities, including Balikatan 2025, to ensure the countries are prepared and able to work together through any crisis or contingency.

The three countries also plan to hold a maritime training activity around Japan in 2025, following a multilateral maritime cooperative activity in the West Philippine Sea just last week.

This came after China Coast Guard on March 23 water cannoned a Philippine resupply ship en route to the Ayungin Shoal, causing heavy damage and hurting three sailors. The Philippine vessel was on a mission to provide supplies to the decrepit Navy vessel, the BRP Sierra Madre, which has been aground and serves as the Philippines outpost in the area.

The leaders in the same statement reiterated their serious concerns over Chinas dangerous and aggressive behavior in the South China Sea, as they cited the 2016 arbitral ruling that states Ayungin Shoal  a submerged reef among the Spratly Islands  lies within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.

We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries offshore resource exploitation, the statement read.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte disclosed on Thursday that he came to an agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping to maintain the status quo within the West Philippine Sea. This particular status quo means no movement or armed activity within the disputed areas, including the delivery of materials for the conservation of BRP Sierra Madre.

Aside from the fact of having a handshake with President Xi Jinping, the only thing I remember was status quo. Thats the word na walang galawan  no movement, no armed patrols therepara walang magkagulo, hindi tayo magkagulo. Yun ang naaalala ko. I do not even know the Ayungin Shoal, he said.

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I assure you that if it was a gentlemans agreement, it would always have been an agreement that would keep the peace in the South China Sea, he added.

The former chief executive said that part of the agreement is the decision not to bring any construction materials for the upkeep and maintenance of BRP Sierra Madre anchored along Ayungin Shoal.

He said, As is where is nga. You cannot bring in materials to repair and improve. No agreement, as is where is. Kasi kung Sierra Madre pa lang, if allowed, matagal nang repaired yan. Nakauwi na yan dito.

On Wednesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he was horrified by the supposed gentlemans agreement between his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping on what should and should not happen along the West Philippine Sea.

I am horrified at the idea that we have compromised through a secret agreement the territory, sovereignty, and sovereign rights of the Philippines, said Marcos, who addressed the issue for the first time.

Marcos admitted that he was not briefed on the details of the said agreement by officials of the former administration. Marcos said there was neither documentation nor record of it having transpired.

We were not briefed about when I came into office. No one told us there was such deal, he said.

Meanwhile, former President Rodrigo Duterte did not take kindly to President Marcos Jr.s pro- United States stance, calling the latter a crybaby, more so after Marcos expressed disapproval of the gentlemans agreement Duterte had with Chinese leader Xi Jinping regarding Ayungin Shoal.

Duterte said of Marcos Jr., You are a crybaby, always America, America, America And you call yourself, you call our place Republic of the Philippines? Marcos recently traveled to Washington DC for a trilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Duterte said during a late-night news conference held in Davao City that he conceded nothing to China at the time he sat as President.

Duterte, however, admitted to not disrupting the status quo, which came in the form of a gentlemans agreement between him and the Chinese leader. Part of the agreement, he said, is the refusal of his administration to bring construction materials for the upkeep of BRP Sierra Madre.

To recall, it was Dutertes former spokesperson, Harry Roque, who divulged the gentlemans deal between Duterte and Xi Jinping. The statement came in the heels of a show of aggression against Philippine vessels by Chinese ships.

Roque admitted that he learned about the said agreement after Duterte summoned the Chinese ambassador shortly after a series of water canon incidents. It was the Chinese ambassador who reminded Duterte of his verbal gentlemans agreement to keep the status quo.

Duterte said, There might have been exchange of control over the China Sea, but those were really territorial in nature, not involving the encroachment of China in an exclusive economic zone. Iba yon Nobody but nobody in the Philippines today, either the Supreme Court, the presidency or Congress can concede anything about territories. Hindi gawain ng presidente yan,

He added that despite being oppressed by China, the Philippines cannot afford a war at this time with Beijing.

Duterte on Thursday also criticized retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio for the latters disapproval of how the former administration handled the issue surrounding the West Philippine Sea.

Duterte said that if China decides to erect a naval base in the disputed islands, no one can contest it. This is easier said than done, Duterte said, What can you do? Justice Carpio, answer me!

Carpio, however, insisted that Duterte should tell the truth to the Filipino people. Besides, Carpio added, If the agreement only allows food and drinks into the disputed waters for BRP Sierra Madre, in the long haul that ship would sink without maintenance. If that happens, there will be no one to stop China from entering. We would lose our outpost.
MAGUINDANAO Del NorteU.S. Marines began training with their Filipino counterparts inside a former Muslim separatist main camp here that was captured by government forces years back.

Over 400 US and Filipino Marines are taking part in the Marine Exercise (MAREX) 2024 slated April 8-19 marked by intensive drills to enhance mutual defense capabilities and respond to natural disasters.

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The joint military exercise is being held at Camp Abubakar, an erstwhile stronghold of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that was taken over by government forces during an all-out-war declared by then President Joseph Estrada in 2000.

Brig. Gen. Eric Macaambac, commander of the Navys 1st Marine Brigade, said the exercise was meant to strengthen the relationship and develop interoperability between Filipino and American Marines.

The Philippines and US forces will conduct capabilities development training that enhances our forces tactics, techniques, and procedures across a wide range of military operations, Macaambac said.

It will advance military modernization and capability development by working together and conducting subject matter expert exchanges, he added.

During this years MAREX Philippines, 49 U.S. Marines and 350 Filipino Marines, along with the Philippine National Police, the Army elite unit, and Navy reservists will be trained to enhance coastal defense, combined fires, amphibious assault operations, and small unmanned aerial system capabilities.

The participants will also conduct cultural exchanges and community relations activities, including a visit to Datu Mohammad Sinsuat Sr. Integrated School covered court in barangay Pura, Datu Blah Sinsuat Maguindanao del Norte in Mindanao, and subject matter expert exchanges to further bilateral commitment to global security and regional cooperation.

We must continue to conduct relevant training that will improve our individual and collective capabilities. MAREX is joined by our foreign counterpart and our major ally, the United States Marine Corps, which has long been training with us and sharing with us the duty to preserve regional peace and security, said Undersecretary Ariel Caculitan, a former commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps.

On April 9, the U.S. Marine Corps from the First Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) conducted training on Tactical combat casualty care with Filipino Marines.

Macaambac said on the day of Eid al-Fitr, the troops partake of a boodle fight as the country joins the rest of the World in marking the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Later this month, the US and the Philippines will conduct their annual Balikatan joint military exercises involving some 11,000 American troops and 5,000 Filipino soldiers in the South China Sea.

The 39th edition of the annual exercise carried out under the two countries 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty (MDT), aims to enhance force capability and strengthen cooperation in maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban and aviation operations, counterterrorism, humanitarian help, and disaster relief.

The Pentagon has said it was prepared to assist if Manila invoked the treaty amid threats from other nations.
At the end of this year, a meeting of religious leaders will be held in Baku, Azernews reports, citing Haji Allahshukur Pashazade as saying in an interview with local journalists.

He said that the issue of inviting Catholicos of Armenians II Gareghi to the meeting will be considered.

"He did not pretend that I would invite him to Baku. I once invited him to Azerbaijan, and he came here and participated in a religious conference. Today, the Armenian Church, led by the Armenian Catholicos, is promoting revanchism all over the world.

Today, there is no agreement that Azerbaijan has liberated its lands. They still do not agree that Garabagh is Azerbaijani land. We suggested that he accept it. Life goes on, one day he will understand it," Allahshukur said.
LITHUANIA strongly supports the Philippines, particularly with regard to national territorial integrity and legal rights under international law.

Lithuanian Ambassador to Manila Ricardas Slepavicius issued this statement during a meeting with Philippine officials at the Department of National Defense headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

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The Philippine delegation consisted of Defense Undersecretary Irineo Espino, Undersecretary for Strategic Assessment and Planning Ignacio Madriaga, and Assistant Secretary for Strategic Assessments and International Affairs Marita Yoro.

The envoy was accompanied Lithuanias Minister Counsellor Vilijus Samuila.

During the meeting, Slepavicius shared his countrys policy on the Indo-Pacific, recognizing the Philippines as an important part of the region and underscoring the two countries common interest for peace, security, and a rules-based international order.

Espino recalled his previous meeting with Vaidotas Urbelis, Defense Policy Director at the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defense, on the sidelines of the 12 International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue Sherpa Meeting last January in Singapore.

Espino also conveyed the DNDs openness to holding further defense talks with the Baltic state, and expressed interest in learning about Lithuanias experience in dealing with bellicose states.

Cognizant of the interrelatedness of security challenges in the Philippines and Lithuania, both sides looked forward to developing cooperative bilateral defense engagement which could include military training, cyber security, energy security, defense technology, research and development, and countering hybrid threats.
This case will be, either way, a precedent setting, a landmark for future lawyers, MBAs, and legislators to study

Having written about foreign-funded efforts to influence our national foreign policies, let me shift this time to an issue about a particular foreign-owned private company, Fujifilm Philippines trying to influence our procurement procedures.

This should focus our attention to the wider question of giving foreigners fewer restrictions in our Constitution.

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Reports say Presiding Judge Maria Cheryl Laqui-Cequera of the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 268 has ordered the immediate arrest of the suspects identified as Ryo Nagaoka, Evan Reyes, Anil Jacob John alias Anil John, John Paul Camarillo, Dinesh Mehra and Eric Koh for violation of Article 315 (2) a) of the Revised Penal Code. Atul Agrawal has been added.

The case against the Fujifilm Philippines officials stemmed from a complaint filed by Sunfu Solutions Inc. at the City Prosecutors Office of Pasig which accused the six of criminal fraud and deceit by issuing a First Tier Distributor Certificate dated Jan. 6, 2022 which reportedly authorized Sunfu Solutions to distribute Fujifilm medical equipment for the OFW Hospital and Diagnostic Center in Pampanga but turned out to be a sham as Fujifilm all along supported another bidder.

The assumption in the peanut gallery is money exchanged hands for the hijacking of the authority to sell.

What is interesting is the manner by which Fujifilm Philippines and Fujifilm Asia Pacific supposedly engineered the fraud.

The court submissions in the Philippines and even in Singapore reveal the email and Whatsapp conversations between the foreign company Fujifilm and the Philippine company, Sunfu Solutions,.

The transcript shows the foreign official in Singapore Anil Jacob John, then Managing Director of Fujifilm Asia Pacific, cheerfully revealing what he calls a betrayal of the local company, unafraid of the consequences for himself and his company of such a blatant evidence of fraud.

This seems to be an open and shut case, but, more importantly, it shows how giant foreign companies blatantly violate our laws, thinking they can easily get away with it.

Imagine a Managing Director of a major global company, Anil Jacob John, openly admitting in Whatsapp their motivation for the criminal plot.

The Regional Trial Court Branch 268 and Presiding Judge Maria Cheryl Laqui-Cequera immediately set the case for clarificatory hearing.

Sensing trouble, Fujifilm immediately hired the largest legal team in the Philippines.

Sycip, Salazar, Hernandez, and Gatmaitan Law Firm entered their appearance on the same date as the hearing .

The companies in this legal battle, and their respective lawyers show the David vs. Goliath proportions of this story.

There is no heavier artillery in a legal battle than the oldest law firm in the country to fight against a lean mid-sized law firm.

It is a battle tank to use against what surely was previously perceived by Fujifilm as a mere mosquito.

This is an important case that business journalists and our legislators must closely study and observe.

This case is illustrative of the kind of foreign capital or foreign-owned companies we must guard against.

News reports of the Japanese expatriate, Ryo Nagaoka, who was the country manager of Fujifilm fleeing the country upon hearing of the estafa case filed by the Office of the City Prosecutor, leaving his Filipino counterparts behind, is further proof how easily these companies can evade our flawed justice system.

Reports have it that Aceron and Attorneys are contacting their counterparts in Singapore and Japan to find a way to extradite Ryo Nagaoka, Anil Jacob John alias Anil Jacob, Eric Koh, Atul Agrawal, Dinesh Mehra.

This case will be, either way, a precedent setting, a landmark for future lawyers, MBAs, and legislators to study.

Now comes information that Sunfu Solutions filed with the Court of Appeals for its anti-competitive behavior.

We can only hope the Philippine Competition Council heed the call to widen its definition of anti-competitive acts, as this case shows it like no other.

Haruto Iwata is being held to account, including local representative Masahiro Uehara, who already has a civil case in Quezon City, for obstruction of justice: they knowingly allowed Ryo Nagaoka to escape accountability.

Cases take forever in our judicial system, but the determination of the complainant is clear  to get some executives in handcuffs one day. (rpkapunan@gmail.com)
The recently concluded Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival wasnt just a landmark event for the supermarket giants foray into filmmaking, it was also a celebration of cinematic debuts for aspiring Filipino filmmakers.

Held from March 15 to 19 at Gateway Cineplex 18, CinePanalo offered a platform for aspiring talents hailing from various regions across the Philippines.

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Six debut filmmakers  Rafaela Abucejo from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Dizelle C. Masilungan from the University of Sto. Tomas, Joshua Andrey A. Doce from Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, Joanah Pearl Demonteverde from the University of the Philippines Visayas, Daniel Gil from Ateneo de Davao, and Jenievive Adame  accepted Puregolds invitation to bring their stories to life, competing against each other and 19 other selections in the student short film category. For these new directors, the chance to share their stories with the world was a victory in itself.

Additionally, these debut films made an impact by winning multiple prizes at the CinePanalo Film Festival.

Abucejos film, Saan Ako Pinaglihi?, received the Audience Choice Award; Masilungan, a recipient of the Mowelfund production scholarship, won Best Director, Best Cinematography, 3rd place for the MTRCBs Responsableng Paglikha Award, and also saw one of her actors win Best Supporting Actor.

Doce and Gil both received production scholarships from Mowelfund, while Adame, another Mowelfund production scholarship recipient, won awards for Best Ensemble, Best Musical Scoring, Always Best Film (brand choice), and 1st place for the MTRCBs Responsableng Paglikha Award.

Doces I am Mutya and I Thank You! and Demonteverdes Kang Pagpuli Ko, felt immense motivation to represent their provinces on a big stage with their films. Doce, fluent in Bikolano, and Demonteverde, skilled in Hiligaynon and Kinaray-a, aimed to showcase the power of their films in representing their beloved languages and cultures amidst the dominance of Tagalog and English-centric entries in Filipino cinema.

Demonteverde emphasized the significance of language in her filmmaking journey, especially in representing her province through Puregolds CinePanalo Film Festival. She highlighted the struggles of the unique language in her town, blending Kinaray-a and Hiligaynon, and the honor of sharing her story through film.

As a kid who grew up in a town whose language is a hybrid of Kinaray-a and Hiligaynon, language has been a great element to me in representing my province through filmmaking, Demonteverde said.

Similarly, Doce expressed pride in showcasing Bicolano language in his films, aiming to highlight the greatness of Bicolanos through his work as a filmmaker.

Meanwhile, Masilungan with Kung Nag-aatubili and Abucejo with Saan Ako Pinaglihi? released LGBT-themed short films, drawing from personal experiences of the challenges faced by queer Filipinos and the joys of queer love.

Masilungan fulfilled his dream of creating a BL piece, inspired by queer films and literature, to create inclusive narratives that resonate with audiences.

For Abucejo, it was important to depict both the struggles and strengths of queer individuals, sharing narratives that inspire and resonate with those undergoing similar experiences.

Both directors garnered success with their queer films, with Masilungan winning Best Director and Abucejo receiving the Audience Choice Award, demonstrating the demand for queer stories in Filipino cinema.

They were not good experiences-they were a struggle, said Abucejo. But at least I was able to share my narrative through the film and hopefully inspire those who are currently going through the same things.

Lastly, Gil with Distansya and Adame with Smokey Journey aimed to create family-oriented and wholesome films that resonate with audiences.

Adame encapsulated the theme of family with depth and sincerity, highlighting the deep bond, love, and unity within Filipino families.

Gils film was inspired by his fathers teachings, recognizing solo-parent fathers who strive to raise their children right, showcasing the nostalgic and heartfelt aspects of family life.

I hope people will find this film nostalgic, said Gil. Especially to the kids who grew up with parents who had a hard time searching for their parenting skills and finding it as they get to know their children more as their family grows older.

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival also celebrated debut filmmakers Ronjay-C Mendiola and Kent Michael Cadungog, with Mendiola winning Best Short Film for Last Shift and Cadungog receiving the Special Jury Prize for Text Find DAD and Send to 2366.

Mendiola emphasized the importance of exposing the plight of workers through his film, while Cadungog expressed gratitude for the platform to share his unique art, highlighting the recognition of regional cinema and diverse storytelling.

These filmmakers successes reflect the festivals vision of promoting inclusive, regional, and meaningful storytelling within Filipino cinema.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano reframed the narrative for those experiencing discrimination in a recent episode of the public service program CIA with BA.

In Payong Kapatid segment during the April 7 episode, Florence, a passenger who faced discrimination on public transportation, sought help and advice regarding unfair treatment. She recounted instances of being denied proper change, charged double fares, and even facing rude comments.

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Do I have the right not to pay more than one fare and complain? Florence asked.

Senator Cayetano took a unique approach, applauding Florences courage. Usually, those who seek advice are victims, but I want you to know, youre a hero, he declared. He highlighted the prevalence of discrimination and the importance of speaking up.

Many people experience discrimination, not necessarily because of one reason, but simply because theyre different without realizing that were all unique, he said.

The program pledged to take action. Senator Cayetano stated they would inform the Department of Transportation about the issue and emphasized the need for clear communication within the public transport sector to address and prevent discrimination.

While acknowledging the lack of a general anti-discrimination law in the Philippines, Senator Cayetano explained existing regulations concerning public transportation franchises. He stressed that passengers shouldnt have to pay extra and that offering additional fares, even if motivated by supposed passenger comfort, is unacceptable.

Senator Pia Cayetano, co-host of the program, echoed these sentiments, urging authorities to address the issue and ensure passengers are treated fairly.

CIA with BA continues the legacy of the late Senator Rene Cayetano, known for his legal advocacy program Companero y Companera. Hosted by the Cayetano siblings Alan and Pia, and King of Talk Boy Abunda, the program airs Sundays at 11:00 p.m. on GMA-7 with replays on GTV the following Saturday at 10:30 p.m.
Together for Health: Making a United Stand Against Cervical Cancer. Survivors, stakeholders from the public and private sector, and medical societies gather to advocate for prevention, screening and treatment to achieve cervical cancer elimination.

In a bid to address the challenges of cervical cancer in the Philippines, leading voices from the healthcare sector, the government, and civil societies convened at the Together for Health: Making a United Stand Against Cervical Cancer forum on April 5, 2024 at the Makati Diamond Residences. Organized by the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) and healthcare company MSD in the Philippines, the event discussed the urgent need for concrete, multisectoral action against the silent but deadly disease.

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We cannot fight this battle alone. It requires a concerted effort among all stakeholders, government agencies, healthcare providers, advocacy groups, academe, and the community at large. Each of us brings unique perspectives, strengths, and capabilities to the table and it is through our collective action that we can effect meaningful change, said PHAP Executive Director Teodoro Padilla in his welcome remarks. Together, let us forge a path forwardone marked by innovation, compassion, and inclusivity that host the promise of a future where cervical cancer is just but a distant memory.

The forum invited cervical cancer survivors to share their stories and cervical cancer doctors and champions to spark conversations on cervical cancer in the Philippines, including the challenges of raising awareness and calling for collective action to combat the disease.

Working Together to Eliminate Cervical Cancer

The financial implication of cervical cancer leads to patients facing exorbitant out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures. From costly treatments and hospitalizations to the indirect costs of lost productivity and income generation, the financial strain inflicted by cervical cancer can push families into dire financial circumstances. In fact, at least 7 in 10 cancer patients in the Philippines drop out of regimen due to lack of funds.

As we discuss and strategize, were not just talking about numbers. Were talking about our mothers, daughters, sisters, friendstheir faces fuel our determination. Their stories demand that we do better. For my part, I have consistently pushed for additional budget for the cancer programs of the Department of Health, including funding for the cancer assistance fund, which aims to support cancer patients in their needed treatments, said Senator Bong Go, Chairman, Senate Committee on Health and Demography.

The Department of Healths (DOH) commitment to combatting cervical cancer is aligned with the World Health Organizations (WHO) Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer. By 2030, the DOH aims to vaccinate 90% of girls by the age of 15; screen 70% of women by the age of 35, and again by the age of 45; and to provide treatment to 90% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer. However, the effectiveness of these efforts hinges on the systematic implementation and coordination of interventions across various sectors.

To achieve these targets, a concerted and multi-faceted approach is needed. This includes bolstering vaccination and screening programs while strengthening local healthcare systems, improving access to quality care, and addressing disparities in healthcare delivery. Forum panelists highlighted that by systematizing efforts to eliminate cervical cancer, stakeholders can maximize impact and accelerate progress towards achieving the overarching goal of ending the disease.

Ending Stigma, Beginning Education

Beyond its physical toll, cervical cancer often carries a social stigma that impedes prevention and treatment efforts. Cervical cancer is mostly attributed to the human papillomavirus (HPV). According to experts at the forum, since this virus can be sexually acquired, misconceptions surrounding the disease contribute to fear, shame, and reluctance to seek HPV screening or other medical care.

Despite being one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, cervical cancer continues to claim thousands of lives each year, largely due to a lack of knowledge and awareness. Raising awareness about cervical cancer is paramount to overcome the barriers of prevention, early detection, and treatment. Therefore, efforts to educate the public about the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with cervical cancer are essential in empowering individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.

The forum underscored the need for amplifying the stories of those affected to help humanize the disease, dispel misconceptions, and inspire action. Lets keep telling stories. Stories are very powerful to communicate a message, statistics, or a very complicated issue. Its good to share stories of survivors; even of those who did not make it or discovered their cancertheres something to be learned, said Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, iCanServe Founder and Cancer Coalition of the Philippines Vice President

By sharing these stories, survivors and advocates can offer hope, encouragement, and practical insights into navigating the challenges posed by cervical cancer. Additionally, amplifying diverse experiences ensures that the narrative is inclusive and reflective of the diverse communities it affects. Through collective advocacy and storytelling, cervical cancer champions can raise awareness, promote early detection, and ultimately save lives.

We hope to raise awareness on the need to focus on the following items: the first one is on sustainable preemptive measures for HPV and HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer. There are a lot of conversations in the past that said, Hopefully we have a vaccine for cancer. In reality, we have several vaccines that already prevent cancer and HPV is one. Wed like to continue this conversation to really raise that awareness. Access to quality care services and treatment for all Filipino patients, regardless of socio-economic status, collaborating on tactics to improve public communications, and, of course, self-reporting, said Karlo Paredes, Corporate Affairs and Market Access Director at MSD in the Philippines.

As the curtains draw on the Together for Health: Making a United Stand Against Cervical Cancer forum, a resolute call to action echoes across the nation. The forum served as a catalyst for change, igniting a collective movement to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat. Through collaborative action and sustained advocacy, stakeholders aim to create a future where cervical cancer is no longer a silent killer, but a preventable and treatable disease
The personal drama that can erupt between couples as they try to balance what they want in their dream home with what they can afford played out on a national stage recently and featured Spotsylvania County residents Shamila and Vernon Beslow.

Shed been modeling since she was a teenager and was used to the lights, camera and action. But it was another matter for Vernon, a cybersecurity officer for the federal government.

Several days into the filming of House Hunters, he was clearly over it, his wife said, and he wondered why hed gotten himself into the reality show in the first place.

Some of that comes through in this seasons Episode 10, titled, Practical vs. Grand in Virginia, as well as some well-known views of Fredericksburg landmarks. The segment already has aired four times and is available on demand, on HGTV or Philo.

While Vernon represents the practical side  and said several times he feared hed end up broke  Shamila is the grand element in this equation.

She said some of that is a result of dealing with two serious autoimmune diseases. Shes got permanent nerve damage, pain and numbness in her left leg after a 2018 episode that temporarily put her in a wheelchair.

She was eventually diagnosed with GuillainBarre syndrome, a rare condition affecting the nerves, and she has lupus, which occurs when the immune system attacks healthy tissues and organs.

Because of what Ive been through, I just kind of want what I want and I know what I deserve, the 43-year-old said. Im going to live my life to the fullest.

The Beslows, who have a 7-year-old daughter, Aria, decided to move last year because their former home, near Lees Hill in Spotsylvania, was on a massive hill, she said. If her condition caused paralysis again, it would be difficult to get her in and out of the house, and there was no main level where she had everything she needed.

The House Hunters episode chronicles a rollercoaster of emotions, according to the network, as he advocated for an affordable one-story dwelling and she wanted a home with a grand staircase. She said shes pictured that since childhood, with her husband standing on the landing.

After several starts and stops, the Beslows search ended at The River Front in New Post, near Belvedere Farm. Shes thrilled at the sight of nearby tractors working the fields, and their $739,000 home includes two stories, a basement and the grand staircase she envisioned.

But its also got everything shed need on the main level, should the paralysis put her in a wheelchair again. The office, where she works as a financial counselor and helps others starting their own business, could serve as a bedroom. Everything else on the first floor is easily accessible, and she can control kitchen appliances and door locks with her smart phone.

Vernon is happy, too.

The house is great and the community is fantastic, he said, adding he isnt quite as pleased with the builder.

Theyve been excited to discover that some of their neighbors also were formerly stationed at the Pentagon, as Vernon was, and theyve joined in community activities such as the recent Easter egg hunt.

Being part of the House Hunters filming was an experience, for the Beslows as well as Realtor Khaliyah Barakhyahu.

It was work, but it was enjoyable work, Barakhyahu said. And the Beslows, theyre awesome.

Shamila Beslow said the filming, and visiting various houses, took eight hours a day, for six days over the course of two weeks. The film crew provided everything they asked for, from meals and snacks to fixing their hair and clothes.

You feel like youre a big-time celebrity, she said.

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No foul play is suspected in the death of Lakota actor Cole Brings Plenty, according to an April 10 statement from the Lawrence (Kansas) Police Department and Johnson County Sheriff's Office.

Brings Plenty was found dead in a wooded area of Johnson County, Kansas, on April 5. The 27-year-old had been missing since March 31. Lawrence police accused the Mnicouju Lakota actor of assaulting a woman on March 31 prior to fleeing the city.

I learned through this series of events that our police department must work harder to increase trust with our Native American community members. Through meeting with Coles family members and members of our Native American community, I clearly see that we are not where we need to be in partnering with a community that is very important to Lawrences history and to its current culture, said Lawrence, Kansas, Police Chief Rich Lockhart in the April 10 press release.

Brings Plenty, the nephew of Yellowstone actor Moses Brings Plenty, was most well known for his role as Pete Plenty Clouds in the Yellowstone prequel series 1923. He had also been featured in Into the Wild Frontier and The Tall Tales of Jim Bridger.

Brings Plenty was a student at Haskell Indian Nations University.

A wake will be held in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, this weekend followed by a burial at the Brings Plenty family cemetery in Red Scaffold, South Dakota. Several vigils across South Dakota are being planned by the Brings Plenty family.

The Johnson County Sheriff's Department did not respond to a request for comment.

Close Employees of The Montana Standard spent an evening last September checking out all the facades on West Broadway Street before they were taken down. A '1923' crew member was happy to take the photograph. Pictured here, from left, are Tracy Thornton, Heather Carlson, Jamie Rowling, Kate Kunnert, Kim LaBreche and Jenean Kujawa. The Butte Water Co. was transformed into Bozeman's Town Hall. Toys galore could apparently be found at Tinka's. In 1923, stores such as Hennessy's, Symon's and McConnell's all had toy departments. The temperance movement got its start in Ohio and it eventually made its way west. These film extras were making their feelings known by protesting outside the fictional Silver Dollar Soda Shop. Above this garage on West Granite Street is a sign, Sweet Blossom Peas. Similar to Anaconda's Art in the Park, Bozeman has a three-day summer event as well, the Sweet Pea Festival. One poster featured here promoted a 1923 Frank Lloyd silent film, which starred Corinne Griffith, Conway Tearle and Clara Bow. Some fictitious Bozeman real estate agents did business next door to the Bozeman Town Hall, also known as the Butte Water Co. There were several cafes and diners on West Broadway Street 100 years ago. For 1923, Opal's Diner was opened for business. The Madison Power Company on West Broadway Street was part of the 1923 scenery. Tobacco products could be found in any number of Butte establishments 100 years ago, including the Bismarck at 15 W. Granite St., and the Broadway Cigar Store, 30 W. Broadway St. Highest quality, along with lowest prices, was what the fictitious Lindley Place Market was advertising 100 years ago. In reality, this market would have had some stiff competition as, according to the 1923 Butte City Directory, the Mining City had 258 grocery stores. It was 'lights, camera, action' on Granite Street. To help set the stage for 1923, period lampposts were placed in the Uptown Butte streets. The Hotel Bozeman facade was featured prominently on West Broadway Street. In actuality, the Butte building is the Kenwood. Horses were also 'extras' in the Paramount+ series, 1923. Pictured here is the fictional Heine Fur. Butte, in 1923, had three fur shops. A movie poster covers up the window of this 'soda' joint, which, for many years, was a favorite watering hole in Uptown Butte, Club 13. The facade outside the Piccadilly Museum of Transportation, 20 W. Broadway St., featured the Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicles. A Bozeman dentist office from 1923 was featured here. One hundred years ago, the Butte Dental Laboratory was housed in the Silver Bow Block. Perhaps some 1923 Duttons ended up in this makeshift Bozeman County Jail. Butte's old bus deport was transformed into the Bozeman Civic Center. Boxers Jack Dempsey and Tommy Gibbons did not meet in the ring in Bozeman, nor in Butte. In reality, the match was held in Shelby, Montana on July 4, 1923. Note that the Original headframe, lit up in red, is part of this picture's backdrop. Butte's barber shops from 1923 included establishments run by R.D. Pelletier and J.D. Lambros. Like everyone else associated with "1923," extras like these are at a standstill as the production is on hold. 1923 extras are seen here getting ready for a day of work on West Granite Street. Uptown scenes from the filming of '1923' Here are some recognizable sets in Uptown Butte from the filming of "1923,'' a prequel to the popular television series "Yellowstone.'' The buildings were restored to their former look after filming. Employees of The Montana Standard spent an evening last September checking out all the facades on West Broadway Street before they were taken down. A '1923' crew member was happy to take the photograph. Pictured here, from left, are Tracy Thornton, Heather Carlson, Jamie Rowling, Kate Kunnert, Kim LaBreche and Jenean Kujawa. The Butte Water Co. was transformed into Bozeman's Town Hall. Toys galore could apparently be found at Tinka's. In 1923, stores such as Hennessy's, Symon's and McConnell's all had toy departments. The temperance movement got its start in Ohio and it eventually made its way west. These film extras were making their feelings known by protesting outside the fictional Silver Dollar Soda Shop. Above this garage on West Granite Street is a sign, Sweet Blossom Peas. Similar to Anaconda's Art in the Park, Bozeman has a three-day summer event as well, the Sweet Pea Festival. One poster featured here promoted a 1923 Frank Lloyd silent film, which starred Corinne Griffith, Conway Tearle and Clara Bow. Some fictitious Bozeman real estate agents did business next door to the Bozeman Town Hall, also known as the Butte Water Co. There were several cafes and diners on West Broadway Street 100 years ago. For 1923, Opal's Diner was opened for business. The Madison Power Company on West Broadway Street was part of the 1923 scenery. Tobacco products could be found in any number of Butte establishments 100 years ago, including the Bismarck at 15 W. Granite St., and the Broadway Cigar Store, 30 W. Broadway St. Highest quality, along with lowest prices, was what the fictitious Lindley Place Market was advertising 100 years ago. In reality, this market would have had some stiff competition as, according to the 1923 Butte City Directory, the Mining City had 258 grocery stores. It was 'lights, camera, action' on Granite Street. To help set the stage for 1923, period lampposts were placed in the Uptown Butte streets. The Hotel Bozeman facade was featured prominently on West Broadway Street. In actuality, the Butte building is the Kenwood. Horses were also 'extras' in the Paramount+ series, 1923. Pictured here is the fictional Heine Fur. Butte, in 1923, had three fur shops. A movie poster covers up the window of this 'soda' joint, which, for many years, was a favorite watering hole in Uptown Butte, Club 13. The facade outside the Piccadilly Museum of Transportation, 20 W. Broadway St., featured the Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicles. A Bozeman dentist office from 1923 was featured here. One hundred years ago, the Butte Dental Laboratory was housed in the Silver Bow Block. Perhaps some 1923 Duttons ended up in this makeshift Bozeman County Jail. Butte's old bus deport was transformed into the Bozeman Civic Center. Boxers Jack Dempsey and Tommy Gibbons did not meet in the ring in Bozeman, nor in Butte. In reality, the match was held in Shelby, Montana on July 4, 1923. Note that the Original headframe, lit up in red, is part of this picture's backdrop. Butte's barber shops from 1923 included establishments run by R.D. Pelletier and J.D. Lambros. Like everyone else associated with "1923," extras like these are at a standstill as the production is on hold. 1923 extras are seen here getting ready for a day of work on West Granite Street.
A European Parliaments committee has called for an investigation into the alleged mismanagement of EU funds in Senegal after a joint investigation by Al Jazeera and porCausa Foundation revealed that EU-trained Senegalese police meant to tackle cross-border crime worked to repress pro-democracy protests in the West African country.

Juan Fernando Lopez Aguilar, the chair of the European Parliaments Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs (LIBE), has sent the letter to the European Commission, asking the EU executive to make all necessary efforts so that the allegations are investigated and full clarity is made on use of EU funds.

The joint investigation by Al Jazeera and porCausa Foundation revealed how a cross-border crime unit, funded by the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, was utilized by the Senegalese government to repress demonstrators, resulting in at least 60 deaths.

The Rapid Action Surveillance and Intervention Group (GAR-SI) was implemented by Spanish government development agency FIIAPP between 2017 and 2023 to fight armed groups, smuggling, trafficking, and other cross-border crimes along the border area between Senegal and Mali. However, evidence from the investigation indicated that the unit, funded to the tune of 74 million euro, was misused by then-President Macky Salls government to crackdown on protests, in which at least 60 people died, leading to increased migration towards Spain.

The EU executive and Spanish foreign and interior ministers had previously distanced themselves from the Senegalese governments use of the GAR-SI to crush protests.
Human rights organizations have criticized the arrest of a journalist in Malawi for publishing an article implicating a prominent businessman in corruption. Macmillan Mhone was detained in Blantyre by police following his report on the Malawi 24 news website last August. The 34-year-old reporter faces charges of publication of news likely to cause fear and public alarm; cyber-spamming; and extortion and has been released on bail.

Mhones article alleged that businessman Abdul Karim Batatawala used proxy companies to secure government contracts while on trial for corruption-related charges. Although Batatawala denies these allegations, he was previously arrested in 2021 by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on suspicions of fraud and money laundering for the Malawi government. The arrest followed a complaint from Batatawala claiming that Mhone attempted to extort money from him.

Gift Trapence, deputy chair of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition, strongly condemned the charges, emphasizing the need to uphold journalistic freedoms. Similarly, Mhones lawyer, Joseph Lihoma, criticized the decision to transport Mhone 200 miles to charge him in the capital, Lilongwe, suggesting it should have been handled locally in Blantyre.

The Malawi chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa) and its chairperson, Golden Matonga, described the arrest and transfer as forms of intimidation and called for the charges to be dropped, citing no public harm from the article. Governance commentator Undule Mwakasungula warned that fear of arrest among journalists could stifle investigative reporting and lead to a rise in corruption and human rights abuses.

President Lazarus Chakwera has publicly committed to protecting press freedom, a principle enshrined in Malawis constitution. Meanwhile, incidents like the detention of reporter Gregory Gondwe in 2022 for refusing to reveal sources in a corruption story highlight ongoing challenges to press freedom in Malawi.
Ramadan Eid prayer was performed in the city of Shusha, which was liberated from occupation, Azernews reports.

Prayers prayed for Azerbaijanis and Azerbaijan during the Eid prayer at Yukhari Govhar Agha Mosque.

During the Eid prayer, the children of the Motherland who lost their lives in the struggle for the territorial integrity of the country were remembered.

It should be noted that this year the month of Ramadan in Azerbaijan began on March 11. According to the relevant decision of the Cabinet of Ministers, April 10 and 11, Ramadan holiday is celebrated in Azerbaijan.




Over 150 years after being looted, the UK has returned dozens of artifacts to present-day Ghana, now housed temporarily in the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) and the British Museum. These 32 gold and silver items, stolen during 19th-century conflicts from the court of the Asante king, were recently shipped back on a long-term loan. This Friday, they are to be officially handed over to the current Asante king.

According to Ivor Agyeman-Duah, the chief negotiator for the Asante king, the artifacts are safely in Ghana and will soon be displayed at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi as part of the celebrations for the silver jubilee of Asante King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The artifacts, including a gold peace pipe and a state sword, symbolize the historical wealth and power of the Asante kingdom.

The loan arrangement, lasting initially for three years with the possibility of extension, was negotiated directly with the Asante monarchy. This allows the items to be appreciated in their cultural context while adhering to UK laws that prevent permanent repatriation from national collections.

The return highlights ongoing discussions about cultural heritage and the legacy of colonialism, as museums worldwide confront the challenge of handling artifacts acquired during colonial times. This initiative by the UK museums is seen as an important step in addressing past injustices and enhancing international cultural relations.
Russian military instructors and defense ministry personnel arrived in Niger, as reported by Niger state television RTN, highlighting the growing ties between Niger and Moscow, similar to other military-led regimes in the region. This development follows a recent agreement aimed at enhancing military cooperation between Niger and Russia, which includes the installation of a Russian anti-aircraft system to bolster Nigers defense capabilities.

Footage from RTN showed the arrival and unloading of a Russian military cargo plane, watched by personnel in military fatigues. An instructor, appearing in camouflage and partially obscured by a neck gaiter, was quoted stating their mission to train the Nigerian army and strengthen military ties between the two nations.

This move comes shortly after Niger severed its military agreement with the United States, which had allowed the operation of American personnel from two bases, signaling a shift in Nigers international military alliances. The Pentagon expressed concerns over Nigers deepening relationship with Russia before the termination of the U.S. agreement.

The trend of closer ties with Russia is not isolated to Niger. Still, it is also observed in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, where military coups have reshaped regional dynamics and formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). These changes coincide with increased violence and a severe humanitarian crisis in the region, where conflict fatalities and displacement continue to rise, adding to the challenges faced by one of the worlds poorest areas.
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A faster and vastly more effective treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis is being rolled out in the Asia-Pacific region, raising hopes of a "new era" in tackling one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases.

The region had most of the world's estimated 10.6 million new TB cases in 2022, and more than half of the 1.3 million deaths, World Health Organization (WHO) figures show.

While TB can be successfully treated with antibiotics, more than three percent of new TB patients are resistant to commonly prescribed drugs.

Until recently, treatment for these patients involved daily painful injections or a fistful of pills for 18 months or longer, while some endured severe side effects such as nausea and, in extreme cases, blindness.

Many people prematurely quit their treatment, which had a success rate of 63 percent or lower.

Now, a new drug regimen involving fewer pills and side effects is being rolled out in the Asia-Pacific, including the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia, where trials have shown a more than 90 percent cure rate after six months.

The treatment, known as BPaL, combines the antibiotics bedaquiline, pretomanid and linezolid, and has received regulatory approval in more than 60 countries since 2019, according to the non-profit TB Alliance, which developed it.

The WHO updated its guidelines in 2022 to allow BPaL to be used with or without a fourth antibiotic called moxifloxacin.

BPaL has been life-changing for Filipino cook Efifanio Brillante, who was diagnosed with drug-resistant TB in June 2022 and initially went on an older form of treatment.

Brillante, 57, was swallowing 20 tablets a day, but it left him feeling so nauseous that he couldn't work or eat.

He stopped the medication after two weeks even though he knew the decision could be fatal.

"It's very difficult. You're always in bed," Brillante told AFP about his experience of having TB.

"Sometimes I couldn't even breathe."

The following month, Brillante joined a BPaL trial at the Jose B Lingad Memorial General Hospital in Pampanga province, north of the Philippine capital Manila.

He took between three and seven pills a day and was cured after six months.

"I'm very thankful that I was healed," Brillante told AFP in his home.

"If I didn't take that BPaL, I might already be buried in the cemetery."

'A curable disease'

TB, once called consumption, is caused by a bacteria that primarily attacks the lungs and is transmitted through the air by infected people, for example by coughing.

While it is found in every country, poorer people living and working in overcrowded conditions are at higher risk of the disease.

Eight countries accounted for two-thirds of new TB cases in 2022: India, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

One of the biggest challenges of treating drug-resistant TB has been getting patients to take the full course of their medication.

Even in countries where treatment is free, patients face crippling travel costs to hospitals and loss of income, or even their job, due to the illness and side-effects of the drugs, leading many to stop taking their pills.

In Vietnam, most people diagnosed with TB are from low-income families, Hoang Thi Thanh Thuy from the Vietnam National Tuberculosis Program told AFP.

Nearly everyone with drug-resistant TB endured "catastrophic" expenses over the period of their treatment, she said.

"All of these difficulties can affect patient compliance and lead to poor treatment and increasing drug resistance," Thuy said.

Identifying people with TB is also a challenge.

In Indonesia, some health care facilities are still not able to properly diagnose the disease, said Imran Pambudi of the health ministry.

Fear of social stigma from a positive diagnosis is also common.

"We're trying to educate them that TB is a curable disease," said Irene Flores, who led the BPaL trial at the Jose B Lingad Memorial General Hospital in the Philippines.

"If they come early, we can prevent complications."

More investment needed

After years of decline, the number of people falling ill with TB and drug-resistant tuberculosis began increasing during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted diagnosis and treatment, the WHO said previously.

After gargantuan global efforts to develop a vaccine against the coronavirus, the WHO has called for increased funding to fight TB.

"As TB stopped being a high income-country problem, motivation to invest in research and development for new TB drugs dried up," said Sandeep Juneja, senior vice president of market access at the TB Alliance.

To help accelerate the rollout of BPaL, with or without moxifloxacin, the TB Alliance has set up a "knowledge hub" in Manila to provide training and assistance to other countries.

In India, where BPaL has been approved, there is growing impatience for it to be introduced into health clinics given the country's world-beating caseload.

"BPaL should be rolled out soon because it will spare patients a lot of headaches and provide psychological relief too, besides reducing cost of treatment in the long run," said Ravikant Singh, founder of advocacy group Doctors For You.

Juneja said the new regimen meant treating drug-resistant TB was no longer a guessing game of whether a patient would survive or not.

But more is needed to be done, he added.

"I hope this is... just the beginning of a new era of TB treatment where they will be even simpler, even shorter."

 2024 AFP
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Midwives are in a prime position to help support pregnant women to stop or cut down on alcohol and other drug use and to improve outcomes for the women and their children.

A new South Australian initiative will examine the role midwives can play in promoting key public health messages and supporting abstinence during pregnancy.

The program has facilitated a collaboration between experts at Flinders University, the University of Adelaide and the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN).

In a new research protocol, "Improving the quality of antenatal screening and early intervention for alcohol and other drug use: protocol for a multi-stage approach to systems reform," published in Addiction Science and Clinical Practice, researchers outline how they will investigate the pivotal role midwives play in engaging with pregnant women during regular hospital antenatal clinic checks and suggest improved systems for identifying and supporting the reduction of any alcohol and other drug use during pregnancy.

"Alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use during pregnancy can cause significant harm to women and their developing babies," says the first author of the study, Dr. Matthew Stevens, from The University of Adelaide.

"Despite recommendations for abstinence during pregnancy, some women need additional advice and in some cases further support in order to discontinue use, making screening and early intervention an important strategy for reducing risk."

NALHN and Flinders University Professor of Women's Health and Midwifery Research Dr. Annette Briley says the study aims to improve the rates of screening and intervention for substance use among pregnant women, including appropriate referral for those who may be substance-dependent.

"We have outlined a protocol which focuses on a multi-stage approach in implementation.

"With periods of abstinence promoted during pregnancy, this time presents an ideal opportunity to discuss lifestyle practices and seek help to make change to healthier lifestyle choices."

Health warnings from government agencies and advice from midwives about refraining from using alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use during pregnancy are already a potential catalyst for healthier choices for the mother and her child.

The new project commenced with changes in recent years of the availability and habits of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use, including the rise of vapes as a substitute for tobacco.

"We've seen a large shift in the availability and attitudes towards both licit substances like alcohol and tobacco, and illicit substances like cannabis in recent years and we wanted to find out how midwives discussed these issues with the women booking for antenatal care," adds Dr. Stevens.

"Despite strong public health campaigns around cessation of alcohol and tobacco use in pregnancy, some women struggle to discontinue use. It may also be the case that some women are unlikely to disclose recreational drug use in pregnancy. Therefore midwives are in an ideal position to help women make the change."

But while midwives are well placed to initiate referral for support to quit smoking, substance use and alcohol intake, researchers are asking "are they aware of current trends and do they feel confident to discuss these issues with women and support them through pregnancy?"

"A prize example is vaping, with conflicting advice in the media about its impact on the persons health, but also the unborn child," adds Professor Briley.

"We hope this program will evaluate current practices and provide midwives and other health professionals working with pregnant women with the knowledge and skills to support them to stop using substances, alcohol or smoking in pregnancy to improve both their and their baby's health."

So far, the research team has completed phase onea retrospective case note review which helped to understand the current practices around screening and intervention within the services.

The team has also conducted a "Training Needs Analysis" of the midwifery staff at those services to understand attitudes, beliefs and commitments to care for pregnant women who use alcohol and other drugs.

Researchers will now focus on providing training around identifying and responding to alcohol and other drug use and assess and monitor changes over time.

More information: Matthew W. R. Stevens et al, Improving the quality of antenatal screening and early intervention for alcohol and other drug use: protocol for a multi-stage approach to systems reform, Addiction Science & Clinical Practice (2024). DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00434-6
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Re-perfusing the lungs of an organ donor with a technique called normothermic regional perfusion (TA-NRP) after the heart has irreversibly stopped beating could potentially increase the number of patients receiving lung transplants, according to researchers at the Annual Meeting and Scientific Sessions of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) in Prague.

TA-NRP uses a machine to pass blood through a donor's abdomen and chest after the heart has irreversibly stopped beating (called donation after circulatory death, or DCD). Thirty to forty minutes of perfusing blood to these areas reanimates the heart and ventilates the lungs.

Pedro Catarino, MD, director of Aortic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, said techniques like TA-NRP will help get more of the available donor lungs to patients on the waiting list. Worldwide, the overall utilization of available donor lungs is only 20%.

"The utilization of donor lungs is generally quite poor," said Dr. Catarino. "For every five organ donors, we only use one set of lungs. It's even worse for DCD donors, only four to six percent in the US. The great majority of DCD donors are not giving their lungs."

Dr. Catarino presented data showing that the retrieval rate for DCD lungs has increased to about 15% with the utilization of TA-NRP. However, some lung experts harbor concerns that lungs are injured during the in situ perfusion process.

"TA-NRP is technically possible, and some surgeons have successfully used it to retrieve both the heart and lungs from DCD donors," said Shaf Keshavjee, MD, MSc, FRCSC, FACS, director of the Toronto Lung Transplant Program. "However, when TA-NRP was introduced in the US, the incidence of lung retrieval decreased.

"I think NRP could save more hearts, kidneys, livers, and lungs," said Dr. Keshavjee. "But we need to standardize our technique because there are too many examples of good donor lungs damaged by TA-NRP."

TA-NRP is currently only being used in the US and Spain. In Canada, DCD donor lungs are removed from the body and perfused outside the body (ex vivo) in a machine. Machine perfusion, which gives the surgical team control over the fluids used to perfuse the lungs, has been highly successful for the Toronto Lung Transplant Program.

"We have the largest lung transplant program in the world," said Dr. Keshavjee. "We use 40% of DCD lungs, whereas the US uses only 4%."

Unlike machine perfusion, which is not readily available worldwide, Dr. Catarino said that TA-NRP is a technique that anyone can use.

"Using TA-NRP, we're also to measure the oxygen transfer in the lungs, which is a very good indicator of the quality of the donor's lungs," he said. "Being able to perform this functional assessment is one of its great benefits."

Dr. Catarino said there is data that suggests outcomes following TA-NRP for DCD lungs are very good.

"TA-NRP is a way to get more lungs to patients who need them," he said. "DCD was 32% of overall organ donors in the US in 2022, and the trajectory is going upward."

The ISHLT has launched a task force to produce a statement that summarizes the best available evidence and practice for NRP, including outlining issues, concerns, and areas for future research.

Provided by International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation
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A woman begins losing blood during childbirth. Some vaginal bleeding is normal, but is it too much?

How that question gets answeredand how quickly a hemorrhaging mother gets treatedcan make the difference between life and death. Excessive blood loss is the leading cause of death for women on the day they give birth and one of the leading causes of maternal death in the postpartum period. It is a complication that is far more likely to be fatal for Black women.

Heart conditions, high blood pressure disorders and strokes are among the other underlying causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. Yet the majority of maternal deaths84% of themmay be preventable, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows. More hospitals are taking steps to make sure they are, by adopting evidence-based guidelines and best practices known as maternal safety bundles.

"These protocols work," said Dr. Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha, the Julia A. Okoro Professor of Black Maternal Health in the department of public health and community medicine at Tufts University in Boston. "When hospitals follow them, people's lives are saved."

What's driving the push for safety bundles, which standardize the care given to women during and after childbirth, is that hundreds of women in the U.S. die every year from pregnancy-related complications. Black, American Indian and Alaska Native women are at least twice as likely as their white peers to die during pregnancy, childbirth or in the weeks after giving birth.

"What we're looking to do is ensure standardization of care during delivery, especially for the conditions most likely to cause illness or death," said Dr. Audra Meadows, professor and vice chair for culture and justice in the department of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive science at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine in La Jolla. "If you have standardization, you mitigate variation in care and disparate outcomes."

Studies show multiple factors contribute to preventable maternal deaths. For example, the amount of blood a woman loses during delivery is routinely underestimated, research shows. That can lead to delays in diagnosis and effective treatment, which may contribute to nearly a third of all hemorrhage-related pregnancy deaths, according to a 2018 report that looked at maternal mortality data from nine states.

The report found treatment delays and other provider-related factors likewise contributed to about half of maternal deaths due to the hypertensive disorders preeclampsia and eclampsia, which are more common among Black women than white.

Structural racism, not a woman's race, often drives these disparities, Meadows said.

"That doesn't mean care delays are intentional," she said. "Implicit biases can cause health care professionals to discount complaints from a patient or not take their symptoms seriously. Variations in care also may occur because one community's hospital performs better than another, because it may have more staff, more training, more resources."

Meadows and Amutah-Onukagha are among the researchers studying the ways safety bundles can ensure that every womanregardless of race, ethnicity and other sociodemographic factorsreceives the same care under the same set of medical circumstances. The researchers are part of a team developing safety bundles specifically targeted at reducing maternal health disparities in Massachusetts.

By standardizing care for all, safety bundles "actively undo the racism embedded in the health care system," Amutah-Onukagha said.

Safety bundles aren't new. They were first introduced in the early 2000s, becoming an important tool for preventing deaths in intensive care units. Their use in addressing maternal deaths and pregnancy-related complications has grown over the past decade.

Since 2013, the Council on Patient Safety in Women's Health Care and the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health have developed 10 safety bundles related to maternal health. In addition to obstetric hemorrhage and severe hypertension in pregnancy, bundles have been created for maternal venous thromboembolism, or blood clots in the veins, postpartum care and reducing cesarean births.

Their use accelerated in 2020 when the Joint Commission, the organization responsible for hospital accreditations, included prenatal and postpartum care bundles in its Perinatal Care Services certification for health care facilities.

A growing body of evidence suggests safety bundles can be effective not just in reducing disparities but in improving outcomes for all women.

Safety bundles have been shown to reduce the rate of eclampsiaa life-threatening hypertensive conditionby 42% and other severe childbirth-related complications by 17%.

A 2017 study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology showed use of a postpartum hemorrhage bundle in a collaborative of 99 California hospitals reduced severe childbirth-related complications by 21% compared to a 1% reduction in comparison hospitals. Hospitals that had prior experience with the protocols saw an even higher 29% reduction.

A subsequent 2020 study published in the same journal found use of the safety bundle lowered complication rates due to hemorrhage by 9% for Black women and 2% for white women.

"At the core, we are dismantling how racism affects variations in treatment," Amutah-Onukagha said. "If protocols are in place, they level the playing field."

Amutah-Onukagha, who founded and leads an annual conference on Black maternal health in Boston, said the key to successful implementation of safety bundles is having people on staff at the hospital who are passionate about it.

"You need a champion to get behind it," she said. "You need to make sure the teams are trained and know how to do all the procedures properly. You need buy-in from the nurses. It's really about shifting the culture."

When done correctly, Meadows said, safety bundles work because they make health care decisions objective, removing even those biases people may not realize they have.

"We aren't changing the people we care for; we are changing care quality," she said. "What we're talking about is fixing the system."
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Women who undergo regular Pap smears are no doubt familiar with the possibility of "precancerous" cells being detected.

These cellscalled cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CINs)can progress to full-blown cervical cancers, but a new trial suggests that a vaginal suppository containing the drug imiquimod can halt that process.

The treatment might also help women diagnosed with advanced CIN avoid the most common therapeutic option, surgery.

"The imiquimod treatment was patient-friendly and easy to use, since it could be applied by the patient without requiring an office visit," added study lead author Dr. Sangini Sheth. She's associate professor of obstetrics at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Conn.

Her team presented the findings this week at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in San Diego. Their study was published simultaneously in the journal Clinical Cancer Research.

As Sheth's team explained, CIN can present in three gradesCIN1, CIN2 and CIN3all involving the emergence of abnormal cells at the entrance to the cervix. As is the case with cervical cancers, CIN is very often caused by infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Imiquimod is already approved as a topical skin cream to treat genital warts and works by stimulating an immune response. Sheth's team wanted to see if it might also help eliminate CIN when used as a vaginal suppository.

They focused on a group of 133 women who'd been diagnosed with CIN at grades 2 or 3. They did not include women with less severe CIN1, since these cases often regress on their own over time and do not require surgery.

"With CIN1, we don't do surgery, we advise the patients to come back and see us in 6 to 12 months, so we can repeat the pap smear," senior study author Dr. Alessandro Santin explained in a Yale news release.

"For CIN2, it is different," he said. Santin is professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at Yale.

Patients in the study were divided into three groups: One received the imiquimod suppository alone; another got the suppository plus the HPV vaccine; and a third group was simply monitored by doctors without receiving either treatment.

The results were impressive: While 79% of women with CIN2 who received monitoring (no treatment) saw their condition regress to the safer CIN1 level, over 95% of those taking imiquimod were able to achieve that result, the researchers reported.

Interestingly, the number was somewhat lower (84%) among women who got both the suppository and the HPV vaccine. That suggests "that the medication and HPV vaccine may impact the success of each other," according to the researchers.

Use of the suppository "was also well-tolerated by the study participants, who experienced minimal side effects," Sheth noted.

The researchers are optimistic that this nonsurgical approach to CIN2 might someday replace surgery.

That could also be true for patients with CIN3, although more study is needed. Only about a quarter of the patients in the latest trial had CIN3, Santin noted, and he hopes that a future trialone that includes more patients with CIN3could settle that issue.

More information: Sangini S. Sheth et al, Randomized Phase II Trial of Imiquimod with or without 9-Valent HPV Vaccine versus Observation in Patients with High-grade Pre-neoplastic Cervical Lesions (NCT02864147), Clinical Cancer Research (2024). DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-23-3639 Find out more about cervical intraepithelial neoplasia at the Cleveland Clinic. Journal information: Clinical Cancer Research

 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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

Pet dogs and cats play an important role in the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, says new research presented at the ESCMID Global Congress (formerly ECCMID) in Barcelona, Spain (2730 April).

The study has found evidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria being passed between sick cats and dogs and their healthy owners in Portugal and the UK, raising concerns that pets can act as reservoirs of resistance and so aid in the spread of resistance to vital medicines.

Antibiotic resistance is reaching dangerously high levels around the world. Drug-resistant infections kill more than 1.2 million people a year globally and, with the figure projected to rise to 10 million by 2050 if no action is taken, the World Health Organization (WHO) classes antibiotic resistance as one of the greatest public health threats facing humanity.

"Recent research indicates that the transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) bacteria between humans and animals, including pets, is crucial in maintaining resistance levels, challenging the traditional belief that humans are the main carriers of AMR bacteria in the community," says lead researcher Juliana Menezes, of the Antibiotic Resistance Lab at the Centre of Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon.

"Understanding and addressing the transmission of AMR bacteria from pets to humans is essential for effectively combating antimicrobial resistance in both human and animal populations."

Menezes and colleagues tested fecal and urine samples and skin swabs from dogs and cats and their owners for Enterobacterales (a large family of bacteria that includes E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae) resistant to common antibiotics.

They focused on bacteria resistant to third generation cephalosporins (used to treat a broad range of conditions, including meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis, they are classed among the most critically important antibiotics for human medicine by the World Health Organization) and carbapenems (part of the last line of defense when other antibiotics have failed).

The prospective longitudinal study involved five cats, 38 dogs and 78 humans from 43 households in Portugal and 22 dogs and 56 humans from 22 households in the UK.

All of the humans were healthy. All of the pets had skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) or urinary tract infections (UTI).

In Portugal, one dog (1/43 pets, 2.3%) was colonized by an OXA-181-producing multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli strain. OXA-181 is an enzyme that confers resistance to carbapenems.

Three cats and 21 dogs (24/43 pets, 55.8%) and 28 owners (28/78 owners, 35.9%) harbored ESBL/Amp-C producing Enterobacterales. These are resistant to third generation cephalosporins.

In five households, one home with a cat and four with dogs, both pet and owner were carrying ESBL/AmpC-producing bacteria. Genetic analysis showed the strains to be the same, indicating that the bacteria passed between pet and owner.

In one of these five households, a dog and owner also had the same strain of antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.

In the UK, one dog (1/22 pets,14.3%) was colonized by two strains of multidrug-resistant E. coli producing NDM-5 beta-lactamase. These E. coli were resistant to third generation cephalosporins, carbapenems and several other families of antibiotics.

ESBL/AmpC-producing Enterobacterales were isolated from eight dogs (8/22 pets, 36.4%) and three owners (3/24 owners, 12.5%).

In two households, both dog and owner were carrying the same ESBL/AmpC-producing bacteria.

It wasn't possible to prove the direction of transmission, however, in three of the homes in Portugal, the timing of the positive tests for the ESBL/AmpC-producing bacteria strongly suggest that, in these cases at least, the bacteria were being passed from pet (two dogs and one cat) to human.

Menezes, a Ph.D. student, says, "Our findings underline the importance of including pet-owning households in national programs that monitor levels of antibiotic resistance.

"Learning more about the resistance in pets would aid in the development of informed and targeted interventions to safeguard both animal and human health."

Bacteria can be passed between pets and humans by petting, touching or kissing and through the handling of feces. To prevent transmission, the researchers recommend owners practice good hygiene, including washing their hands after petting their dog or cat and after handling their waste.

"When your pet is unwell, consider isolating them in one room to prevent the spread of bacteria throughout the house and clean the other rooms thoroughly," adds Menezes.

All of the dogs and cats were successfully treated for their infections. The owners did not have infections and so did not need treatment.

Provided by European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
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:

Young women who find a lump or other potential signs of breast cancer often delay for weeks before finally seeing a doctor, a new study shows.

On average, young women waited two weeks before seeing a doctor about troubling breast symptoms, researchers found. One-third of young breast cancer patients waited for more than a month to seek care.

These delays can be dangerous, said lead researcher Dr. Katherine Fleshner, a doctor with the University of Calgary in Canada.

"Because young women typically do not undergo regular screening mammography and because the disease is rare in this population, patients are usually diagnosed at a later stage than older patients," Fleshner said. "They may ignore or dismiss their concerns early on."

"However, their cancers also usually are more aggressive, so seeking medical care is important," Fleshner added.

For this study, researchers analyzed surveys collected from 1,148 patients between 2015 and 2022 as part of the Reducing the Burden of Breast Cancer in Young Women (RUBY) project.

The RUBY study involves young breast cancer patients diagnosed prior to their 41st birthday. The average age of participants was 37.

Nearly nine out of 10 patients (89%) in this study had a symptom of breast cancer. Of those, 77% had a lump they could feel in their breast.

Other symptoms can include swelling of the breast, skin dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction, nipple discharge and swollen lymph notes under the arm or near the collar bone, according to the American Cancer Society.

Patients said they delayed seeing a doctor due to lack of concern, waiting for their next menstrual cycle, reassurance from another health care practitioner, difficulty accessing care or too many competing priorities in their lives.

Practitioner reassurance included informal advice from family or friends in the health care field, or a regular doctor's visit that did not diagnose the problem, researchers said.

"Some primary care physicians may have difficulty teasing out which symptoms truly need a workup, in part because most young patients present with benign complaints," Fleshner said. "Additionally, potentially some early cancers may be misdiagnosed, or patients who believe they were misdiagnosed may actually have experienced a benign issue and an unrelated cancer develops later on."

Young women were most likely to delay seeing a doctor if they had a painful lump or if they had a close relative who'd had breast cancer, results show.

In those instances, fear or denial might drive patients to delay their care, researchers said.

However, there is good newsonce a concerning symptom was recognized by a doctor, only 10% of patients experienced any further delay in care.

The findings were presented this week at the American Society of Breast Surgeons annual meeting in Orlando, FL. Findings presented at medical meetings should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Fleshner stressed that women must seek follow-up care for any breast symptoms that persist.

"Even if you have seen a physician, don't dismiss an ongoing abnormality," Fleshner said in a meeting news release. "Advocate for yourself to ensure you get the help you need."

More information: The American Cancer Society has more about breast cancer symptoms.

 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
In accordance with the plan approved by the Azerbaijan Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov a series of events on the occasion of the Ramadan holiday were held in types of troops, Army Corps, formations, and special educational institutions of the Azerbaijan Army, Azernews reports.

During the events, the memory of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and Shehids (Martyrs) who sacrificed their lives for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the

Motherland was honored with observing a minute of silence. The National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan accompanied by a military orchestra was performed.

Speakers at the events conveyed the Azerbaijan Defense Ministers congratulations on the Ramadan holiday to the military personnel. The preservation of the historical roots, national-cultural values, and traditions of the Azerbaijani people even in the most difficult periods was emphasized. It was also highlighted that the Ramadan holiday, which is a symbol of spiritual unity, solidarity, and equality among the worlds Muslims, is solemnly celebrated throughout the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan.

Concert programs with the participation of the teams of the Army Ideological and Cultural Center named after Hazi Aslanov were presented and a group of servicemen who distinguished themselves in military service was awarded at the festive events.

As part of the events, military personnel visited the graves of Shehids, met with the families of Shehids and the wounded, enquired about their concerns and wishes, as well as presented holiday gifts.

At the meetings, it was noted that Azerbaijan always pays tribute to the memory of Shehids. It was also emphasized that thanks to the attention and care of Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, necessary work on solving concerns and problems of Shehids families and relatives is done.
An introduction to Flow Matching

Table of contents

Introduction

Flow matching (FM) is a recent generative modelling paradigm which has rapidly been gaining popularity in the deep probabilistic ML community. Flow matching combines aspects from Continuous Normalising Flows (CNFs) and Diffusion Models (DMs), alleviating key issues both methods have. In this blogpost well cover the main ideas and unique properties of FM models starting from the basics.

Generative Modelling

Lets assume we have data samples $x_1, x_2, \ldots, x_n$ from a distribution of interest $q_1(x)$, whose density is unknown. Were interested in using these samples to learn a probabilistic model approximating $q_1$. In particular, we want efficient generation of new samples (approximately ) distributed from $q_1$. This task is referred to as generative modelling.

The advancement in generative modelling methods over the past decade has been nothing short of revolutionary. In 2012, Restricted Boltzmann Machines, then the leading generative model, were just about able to generate MNIST digits. Today, state-of-the-art methods are capable of generating high-quality images, audio and language, as well as model complex biological and physical systems. Unsurprisingly, these methods are now venturing into video generation.

Outline

Flow Matching (FM) models are in nature most closely related to (Continuous) Normalising Flows (CNFs). Therefore, we start this blogpost by briefly recapping the core concepts behind CNFs. We then continue by discussing the difficulties of CNFs and how FM models address them.

Normalising Flows

Let $\phi: \mathbb{R}^d \rightarrow \mathbb{R}^d$ be a continuously differentiable function which transforms elements of $\mathbb{R}^d$, with a continously differentiable inverse $\phi^{-1}: \mathbb{R}^d \to \mathbb{R}^d$. Let $q_0(x)$ be a density on $\mathbb{R}^d$ and let $p_1(\cdot)$ be the density induced by the following sampling procedure

which corresponds to transforming the samples of $q_0$ by the mapping $\phi$. Using the change-of-variable rule we can compute the density of $p_1$ as

where the last equality can be seen from the fact that $\phi \circ \phi^{-1} = \Id$ and a simple application of the chain rule. The quantity $\frac{\partial \phi^{-1}}{\partial y}$ is the Jacobian of the inverse map. It is a matrix of size $d\times d$ containing $J_{ij} = \frac{d\phi^{-1}_i}{dx_j}$. Depending on the task at hand, evaluation of likelihood or sampling, the formulation in $\eqref{eq:changevar}$ or $\eqref{eq:changevar-alt}$ is preferred (Friedman, 1987; Chen & Gopinath, 2000).

Example: Transformation of 1D Gaussian variables by linear map Suppose $\phi$ is a linear function of the form \[\phi(x) = ax+b\] \[\phi(x) = ax+b\] with scalar coefficients $a,b\in\mathbb{R}$, and $p$ to be Gaussian with mean $\mu$ and variance $\sigma^2$, i.e. \[p = \mathcal{N}(\mu, \sigma^2).\] \[p = \mathcal{N}(\mu, \sigma^2).\] We know from linearity of Gaussians that the induced $q$ will also be Gaussian distribution but with mean $a\mu+b$ and variance $a^2 \sigma^2$, i.e. \[q = \mathcal{N}(a \mu + b, a^2 \sigma^2).\] \[q = \mathcal{N}(a \mu + b, a^2 \sigma^2).\] More interestingly, though, is to verify that we obtain the same solution by applying the change-of-variable formula. The inverse map is given by \[\phi^{-1}(y) \mapsto \frac{y-b}{a}\] \[\phi^{-1}(y) \mapsto \frac{y-b}{a}\] and its derivative w.r.t. $y$ is thus $1/a$ assuming scalar inputs. We thus obtain \[\begin{align*} q(y) &= p\bigg(\frac{y-b}{a}\bigg) \frac{1}{a} \\ &= \mathcal{N}\bigg(\frac{y-b}{a}; \mu, \sigma^2\bigg) \frac{1}{a}\\ &= \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi\sigma^2}}\exp \bigg(-\frac{(y/a -b/a-\mu)^2}{2\sigma^2} \bigg)\frac{1}{a}\\ &= \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi(a\sigma)^2}}\exp \bigg(-\frac{1}{a^2}\frac{(y-(a\mu+b))^2}{2\sigma^2} \bigg) \\ &= \mathcal{N}\big(y; a\mu+b,a^2\sigma^2\big). \end{align*}\] \[\begin{align*} q(y) &= p\bigg(\frac{y-b}{a}\bigg) \frac{1}{a} \\ &= \mathcal{N}\bigg(\frac{y-b}{a}; \mu, \sigma^2\bigg) \frac{1}{a}\\ &= \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi\sigma^2}}\exp \bigg(-\frac{(y/a -b/a-\mu)^2}{2\sigma^2} \bigg)\frac{1}{a}\\ &= \frac{1}{\sqrt{2\pi(a\sigma)^2}}\exp \bigg(-\frac{1}{a^2}\frac{(y-(a\mu+b))^2}{2\sigma^2} \bigg) \\ &= \mathcal{N}\big(y; a\mu+b,a^2\sigma^2\big). \end{align*}\] We have thus verified that the change-of-variables formula can be used to compute the density of a Gaussian variable tranformed by a linear mapping. Often, to simplify notation, we will use the push-forward operator $[\phi]_{\#}$ to denote the change in density of applying an invertible map $\phi$ to an input density. That is \[q(y) = ([\phi]_{\#} p)(y) = p\big(\phi^{-1}(y)\big) \det\left[\frac{\partial \phi^{-1}}{\partial y}(y)\right].\] \[q(y) = ([\phi]_{\#} p)(y) = p\big(\phi^{-1}(y)\big) \det\left[\frac{\partial \phi^{-1}}{\partial y}(y)\right].\] If we make the choice of $a = 1$ and $b = \mu$, then we get $\mathcal{N}(\mu, 1)$, as can be seen in the figure below.

Transforming a base distribution $q_0$ into another $p_1$ via a transformation $\phi$ is interesting, yet its direct application in generative modelling is limited. In generative modelling, the aim is to approximate a distribution using only the available samples. Therefore, this task requires the transformation $\phi$ to map samples from a simple distribution, such as $\mathcal{N}(0,I)$, to approximately the data distribution. However, a straightforward linear transformation, as in the previous example, is inadequate due to the highly non-Gaussian nature of the data distribution. This brings us to a neural network as a flexible transformation $\phi_\theta$. The key task then becomes optimising the neural nets parameters $\theta$.

Learning flow parameters by maximum likelihood

Lets denote the induced parametric density by the flow $\phi_\theta$ as $p_1 \triangleq [\phi_\theta]_{\#}p_0$.

A natural optimisation objective for learning the parameters $\theta \in \Theta$ is to consider maximising the probability of the data under the model:

Parameterising $\phi_\theta$ as a deep neural network leads to several constraints:

How do we enforce invertibility ?

? How do we compute its inverse ?

? How do we compute the jacobian efficiently?

Designing flows $\phi$ therefore requires trading-off expressivity (of the flow and thus of the probabilistic model) with the above mentioned considerations so that the flow can be trained efficiently.

Residual flow

In particular, computing the determinant of the Jacobian is in general very expensive (as it would require $d$ automatic differentation passes in the flow) so we impose structure in $\phi$.

Full-rank residual (Behrmann et al., 2019; Chen et al., 2010)

Expressive flows relying on a residual connection have been proposed as an interesting middle-ground between expressivity and efficient determinant estimation. They take the form:

where unbiased estimate of the log likelihood can be obtained. As opposed to auto-regressive flows (Huang et al., 2018, Larochelle and Murray, 2011, Papamakarios et al., 2017), and low-rank residual normalising flows (Van Den Berg et al. 2018), the update in \eqref{eq:full_rank_res} has full rank Jacobian, typically leading to more expressive transformations.

We can also compose such flows to get a new flow:

This can be a useful way to construct move expressive flows! The models log-likelihood is then given by summing each flows contribution

with $x_k = \phi_K^{-1} \circ \ldots \circ \phi^{-1}_{k} (y)$.

Continuous time limit

As mentioned previously, residual flows are transformations of the form $\phi(x) = x + \delta \ u(x)$ for some $\delta > 0$ and Lipschitz residual connection $u$. We can re-arrange this to get

which is looking awfully similar to $u$ being a derivative. In fact, letting $\delta = 1/K$ and taking the limit $K \rightarrow \infty$ under certain conditions, a composition of residual flows $\phi_K \circ \cdots \circ \phi_2 \circ \phi_1$ is given by an ordinary differential equation (ODE):

where the flow of the ODE $\phi_t: [0,1]\times\mathbb{R}^d\rightarrow\mathbb{R}^d$ is defined such that

That is, $\phi_t$ maps initial condition $x_0$ to the ODE solution at time $t$:

Continuous change-in-variables

Of course, this only defines the map $\phi_t(x)$; for this to be a useful normalising flow, we still need to compute the log-abs-determinant of the Jacobian!

As it turns out, the density induced by $\phi_t$ (or equivalently $u_t$) can be computed via the following equation

This statement on the time-evolution of $p_t$ is generally known as the Transport Equation. We refer to $p_t$ as the probability path induced by $u_t$.

Computing the total derivative (as $x_t$ also depends on $t$) in log-space yields

resulting in the log density

Parameterising a vector field neural network $u_\theta: \mathbb{R}_+ \times \mathbb{R^d} \rightarrow \mathbb{R^d}$ therefore induces a parametric log-density

In practice, to compute $\log p_t$ one can either solve both the time evolution of $x_t$ and its log density $\log p_t$ jointly

or solve only for $x_t$ and then use quadrature methods to estimate $\log p_t(x_t)$.

Feeding this (joint) vector field to an adaptive step-size ODE solver allows us to control both the error in the sample $x_t$ and the error in the $\log p_t(x)$.

One may legitimately wonder why should we bother with such time-continuous flows versus discrete residual flows. There are a couple of benefits:

CNFs can be seen as an automatic way of choosing the number of residual flows $K$ to use, which would otherwise be a hyperparameter we would have to tune. In the time-continuous setting, we can choose an error threshold $\epsilon$ and the adapative solver would give us a the discretisation step size $\delta$, effectively yielding $K = 1/\delta$ steps. Using an explicit first order solver, each step is of the form $x \leftarrow x + \delta \ u_\theta(t_k, x)$, akin to a residual flow, where the residual connection parameters $\theta$ are shared for each discretisation step, since $u_\theta$ is amortised over $t$, instead of having a different $\theta_k$ for each layer. In residual flows, during training we need to ensure that $u_\theta$ is $1 / \delta$ Lipschitz; otherwise the resulting flow will not be invertible and thus not a valid normalising flow. With CNFs, we still require the vector field $u_\theta(t, x)$ to be Lipschitz in $x$, but we dont have to worry about exactly what this Lipschitz constant is, which is obviously much easier to satisfy and enforce in the neural architecture.

Now that you know why CNFs are cool, lets have a look at what such a flow would be for a simple example.

Example: Gaussian to a Gaussian (1D) Lets come back to our earlier example of mapping a 1D Gaussian to another one with different mean. In contrast to previously where we derived a one-shot (i.e. discrete) flow bridging between the two Gaussians, we now aim to derive a time-continuous flow $\phi_t$ which would correspond to the time integrating a vector field $u_t$. We have the following two distributions \[\begin{equation*} p_0 = \mathcal{N}(0, 1) \quad \text{and} \quad p_1 = \mathcal{N}(\mu, 1). \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} p_0 = \mathcal{N}(0, 1) \quad \text{and} \quad p_1 = \mathcal{N}(\mu, 1). \end{equation*}\] Its not difficult to see that we can continuously bridge between these with a simple linear transformation \[\begin{equation*} \phi(t, x_0) = x_0 + \mu t \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \phi(t, x_0) = x_0 + \mu t \end{equation*}\] which is visualized in the figure below. By linearity, we know that every marginal $p_t$ is a Gaussian, and so \[\begin{equation*} \mathbb{E}_{p_0}[\phi_t(x_0)] = \mu t \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \mathbb{E}_{p_0}[\phi_t(x_0)] = \mu t \end{equation*}\] which, in particular, implies that $\mathbb{E}_{p_0}[\phi_1(x_0)] = \mu = \mathbb{E}_{p_1}[x_1]$. Similarly, we have \[\begin{equation*} \mathrm{Var}_{p_0}[\phi_t(x_0)] = 1 \quad \implies \quad \mathrm{Var}_{p_0}[\phi_1(x_0)] = 1 = \mathrm{Var}_{p_1}[x_1] \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \mathrm{Var}_{p_0}[\phi_t(x_0)] = 1 \quad \implies \quad \mathrm{Var}_{p_0}[\phi_1(x_0)] = 1 = \mathrm{Var}_{p_1}[x_1] \end{equation*}\] Hence we have a probability path $p_t = \mathcal{N}(\mu t, 1)$ bridging $p_0$ and $p_1$. Now lets determine what the vector field $u_t(x)$ would be in this case. As mentioned earlier, $u(t, x)$ should satisfy the following \[\begin{equation*} \dv{\phi_t}{t}(x_0) = u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \big). \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \dv{\phi_t}{t}(x_0) = u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \big). \end{equation*}\] Since we have already specified $\phi$, we can plug it in on the left hand side to get \[\begin{equation*} \dv{\phi_t}{t}(x_0) = \dv{t} \big( x_0 + \mu t \big) = \mu \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \dv{\phi_t}{t}(x_0) = \dv{t} \big( x_0 + \mu t \big) = \mu \end{equation*}\] which gives us \[\begin{equation*} \mu = u_t \big( x_0 + \mu t \big). \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \mu = u_t \big( x_0 + \mu t \big). \end{equation*}\] The above needs to hold for all $t \in [0, 1]$, and so its not too difficult to see that one such solution is the constant vector field \[\begin{equation*} u_t(x) = \mu. \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} u_t(x) = \mu. \end{equation*}\] We could of course have gone the other way, i.e. define the $u_t$ such that $p_0 \overset{u_t}{\longleftrightarrow} p_1$ and derive the corresponding $\phi_t$ by solving the ODE.

Training CNFs

Similarly to any flows, CNFs can be trained by maximum log-likelihood

where the expectation is taken over the data distribution and $p_1$ is the parameteric distribution. This involves integrating the time-evolution of samples $x_t$ and log-likelihood $\log p_t$, both terms being a function of the parametric vector field $u_{\theta}(t, x)$. This requires

 Expensive numerical ODE simulations at training time!

 Estimators for the divergence to scale nicely with high dimension.

CNFs are very expressive as they parametrise a large class of flows, and therefore of probability distributions. Yet training can be extremely slow due to the ODE integration at each iteration. One may wonder whether a simulation-free, i.e. not requiring any integration, training procedure exists for training these CNFs.

Flow matching

And that is exactly where Flow Matching (FM) comes in!

Flow matching is a simulation-free way to train CNF models where we directly formulate a regression objective w.r.t. the parametric vector field $u_\theta$ of the form

In the equation above, $u(t, x)$ would be a vector field inducing a probability path (or bridge) $p_t$ interpolating the reference $p_0$ to $p_1$, i.e.

In words: were just performing regression on $u_t(x)$ for all $t \in [0, 1]$.

Of course, this requires knowledge of a valid $u(t, x)$, and if we already have access to $u_t$, theres no point in learning an approximation $u_{\theta}(t, x)$ in the first place! But as we will see in the next section, we can leverage this formulation to construct a useful target for $u_{\theta}(t, x)$ witout having to compute explicitly $u(t, x)$.

This is where Conditional Flow Matching (CFM) comes to the rescue.

Non-uniqueness of vector field We say a valid $u_t$ because there is no unique vector field $u_t$; there are indeed many valid choices for $u_t$ inducing maps $p_0 \overset{\phi}{\longleftrightarrow} p_1$ as illustrated in the figure below. As we will see in what follows, in practice we have to pick a particular target $u_t$, which has practical implications.

Conditional Flows

First, lets remind ourselves that the transport equation relates a vector field $u_t$ to (the time evolution of) a probability path $p_t$

thus constructing $p_t$ or $u_t$ is equivalent. One key idea (Lipman et al., 2023 and Albergo & Vanden-Eijnden, 2022) is to express the probability path as a marginal over a joint involving a latent variable $z$: $p_t(x_t) = \int p(z) ~p_{t\mid z}(x_t\mid z) \textrm{d}z$. The $p_{t\mid z}(x_t\mid z)$ term being a conditional probability path, satisfying some boundary conditions at $t=0$ and $t=1$ so that $p_t$ be a valid path interpolating between $q_0$ and $q_1$. In addition, as opposed to the marginal $p_t$ , the conditional $p_{t\mid1}$ could be available in closed-form.

In particular, as we have access to data samples $x_1 \sim q_1$, it sounds pretty reasonable to condition on $z=x_1$, leading to the following marginal probabilithy path

In this setting, the conditional probability path $p_{t\mid 1}$ needs to satisfy the boundary conditions

with $\sigmamin > 0$ small, and for whatever reference $p_0$ we choose, typically something simple like $p_0(x) = \mathcal{N}(x; 0, I)$, as illustrated in the figure below.

The conditional probability path also satisfies the transport equation with the conditional vector field $u_t(x \mid x_1)$:

Lipman et al. (2023) introduced the notion of Conditional Flow Matching (CFM) by noticing that this conditional vector field $u_t(x \mid x_1)$ can express the marginal vector $u_t(x)$ of interest via the conditional probability path $p_{t\mid 1}(x_t\mid x_1)$ as

To see why this $u_t$ the same the vector field as the one defined earlier, i.e. the one generating the (marginal) probability path $p_t$, we need to show that the expression above for the marginal vector field $u_t(x)$ satisfies the transport equation

Writing out the left-hand side, we have

where in the $\hlone{\text{first highlighted step}}$ we used \eqref{eq:continuity-cond} and in the $\hltwo{\text{last highlighted step}}$ we used the expression of $u_t(x)$ in \eqref{eq:cf-from-cond-vf}.

The relation between $\phi_t(x_0)$, $\phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1)$ and their induced densities are illustrated in the Figure 9 below. And since $\phi_t(x_0)$ and $\phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1)$ are solutions corresponding to the vector fields $u_t(x)$ and $u_t(x \mid x_1)$ with $x(0) = x_0$, Figure 9 is equivalent to Figure 10, but note the difference in the expectation taken to go from $u_t(x_0 \mid x_1) \longrightarrow u_t(x_0)$ compared to $\phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1) \longrightarrow \phi_t(x_0)$.

Gaussian to Gaussian (2D) using a conditional flow Lets try to gain some intuition behind \eqref{eq:cf-from-cond-vf} and the relation between $u_t(x)$ and $u_t(x \mid x_1)$. We do so by looking at the following scenario \[\begin{equation} \tag{G-to-G} \label{eq:g2g} \begin{split} p_0 = \mathcal{N}([-\mu, 0], I) \quad & \text{and} \quad p_1 = \mathcal{N}([+\mu, 0], I) \\ \text{with} \quad \phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1) &= (1 - t) x_0 + t x_1 \end{split} \end{equation}\] \[\begin{equation} \tag{G-to-G} \label{eq:g2g} \begin{split} p_0 = \mathcal{N}([-\mu, 0], I) \quad & \text{and} \quad p_1 = \mathcal{N}([+\mu, 0], I) \\ \text{with} \quad \phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1) &= (1 - t) x_0 + t x_1 \end{split} \end{equation}\] with $\mu = 10$ unless otherwise specified. Were effectively transforming a Gaussian to another Gaussian using a simple time-linear map, as illustrated in the following figure. In the end, were really just interested in learning the marginal paths $\phi_t(x_0)$ for initial points $x_0$ that are probable under $p_0$, which we can then use to generate samples $x_1 = \phi_1(x_0)$. In this simple example, we can obain closed-form expressions for $\phi_t(x_0)$ corresponding to the conditional paths $\phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1)$ of \eqref{eq:g2g}, as visualised below. With that in mind, lets pick a random initial point $x_0$ from $p_0$, and then compare a MC estimator for $u_t(x_0)$ at different values of $t$ along the path $\phi_t(x_0)$, i.e. well be looking at \[\begin{equation*} \begin{split} u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \big) &= \E_{p_{1 \mid t}}\left[u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \mid x_1 \big)\right] \\ &\approx \frac{1}{n} \sum_{i = 1}^n u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \mid x_1^{(i)} \big) \ \text{with } x_1^{(i)} \sim p_{1 \mid t}(x_1 \mid \phi_t(x_0)). \end{split} \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \begin{split} u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \big) &= \E_{p_{1 \mid t}}\left[u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \mid x_1 \big)\right] \\ &\approx \frac{1}{n} \sum_{i = 1}^n u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \mid x_1^{(i)} \big) \ \text{with } x_1^{(i)} \sim p_{1 \mid t}(x_1 \mid \phi_t(x_0)). \end{split} \end{equation*}\] In practice we dont have access to the posterior \(p_{1 \mid t}(x_1 \mid x_t)\), but in this specific setting we do have closed-form expressions for everything (Albergo & Vanden-Eijnden, 2022), and so we can visualise the marginal vector field \(u_t\big( \phi_t(x_0)\big)\) and the conditional vector fields \(u_t \big( \phi_t(x_0) \mid x_1^{(i)} \big)\) for all our data samples \(x_1^{(i)}\) and see how they compare. This is shown in the figure below. From the above figures, we can immediately see how for small $t$, i.e. near 0, the posterior $p_{1 \mid t}(x_1 \mid x_t)$ is quite scattered so the marginalisation giving $u_t$ involves many equally likely data samples $x_1$. In contrast, when $t$ increases and get closer to 1, $p_{1 \mid t}(x_1 \mid x_t)$ gets quite concentrated over much fewer samples $x_1$.

Moreover, equipped with the knowledge of \eqref{eq:cf-from-cond-vf}, we can replace

where $u_t(x) = \mathbb{E}_{x_1 \sim p_{1 \mid t}} \left[ u_t(x \mid x_1) \right]$, with an equivalent loss regressing the conditional vector field $u_t(x \mid x_1)$ and marginalising $x_1$ instead:

These losses are equivalent in the sense that

which implies that we can use \({\mathcal{L}}_{\text{CFM}}\) instead to train the parametric vector field $u_{\theta}$. We defer the full proof to the footnote, but show the key idea below. By developing the squared norm in both losses, we can easily show that the squared terms are equal or independent of $\theta$. Lets develop the inner product term for \({\mathcal{L}}_{\text{FM}}\) and show that it is equal to the inner product of \({\mathcal{L}}_{\text{CFM}}\):

where in the $\hltwo{\text{first highlighted step}}$ we used the expression of $u_t(x)$ in \eqref{eq:cf-from-cond-vf}.

The benefit of the CFM loss is that once we define the conditional probability path $p_t(x \mid x_1)$, we can construct an unbiased Monte Carlo estimator of the objective using samples $\big( x_1^{(i)} \big)_{i = 1}^n$ from the data target $q_1$!

This estimator can be efficiently computed as it involves an expectation over the joint $q_1(x_1)p_t(x \mid x_1)$ , of the conditional vector field $u_t (x \mid x_1)$ both being available as opposed to the marginal vector field $u_t$ which involves an expectation over the posterior $p_{1 \mid t}(x_1 \mid x)$.

We note that, as opposed to the log-likelihood maximisation loss of CNFs which does not put any preference over which vector field $u_t$ can be learned, the CFM loss does specify one via the choice of a conditional vector field, which will be regressed by the neural vector field $u_\theta$.

Gaussian probability paths

Lets now look at practical example of conditional vector field and the corresponding probability path. Suppose we want conditional vector field which generates a path of Gaussians, i.e.

for some mean $\mu_t(x_1)$ and standard deviation $\sigma_t(x_1)$.

One conditional vector field inducing the above-defined conditional probability path is given by the following expression:

as shown in the proof below.

Proof We have $$ \begin{equation*} \phi_t(x \mid x_1) = \mu_t(x_1) + \sigma_t(x_1) x \end{equation*} $$ and we want to determine $u_t(x \mid x_1)$ such that $$ \begin{equation*} \frac{\dd}{\dd t} \phi_t(x) = u_t \big( \phi_t(x) \mid x_1 \big) \end{equation*} $$ First note that the LHS is $$ \begin{equation*} \begin{split} \frac{\dd{}}{\dd{} t} \phi_t(x) &= \frac{\dd{}}{\dd{} t} \bigg( \mu_t(x_1) + \sigma_t(x_1) x \bigg) \\ &= \dot{\mu_t}(x_1) + \dot{\sigma_t}(x_1) x \end{split} \end{equation*} $$ so we have $$ \begin{equation*} \dot{\mu_t}(x_1) + \dot{\sigma_t}(x_1) x = u_1 \big( \phi_t(x \mid x_1) \mid x_1 \big) \end{equation*} $$ Suppose that $u_1$ is of the form $$ \begin{equation*} u_1\big( \phi_t(x) \mid x_1\big) = h\big(t, \phi_t(x), x_1\big) \dot{\mu_t}(x_1) + g\big(t, \phi_t(x), x_1\big) \dot{\sigma_t}(x_1) \end{equation*} $$ for some functions $h$ and $g$. Reading of the components from the previous equation, we then see that we require $$ \begin{equation*} h\big(t, \phi_t(x), x_1\big) = 1 \quad \text{and} \quad g(t, \phi_t(x), x_1) = x \end{equation*} $$ The simplest solution to the above is then just $$ \begin{equation*} h(t, x, x_1) = 1 \end{equation*} $$ i.e. constant function, and $$ \begin{equation*} g(t, x, x_1) = \phi_t^{-1}(x) = \frac{x - \mu_t(x_1)}{\sigma_t(x_1)} \end{equation*} $$ such that $$ \begin{equation*} g\big(t, \phi_t(x), x_1) = \phi_t^{-1} \big( \phi_t(x) \big) = x \end{equation*} $$ resulting in $$ \begin{equation*} u_t \big( x \mid x_1 \big) = \dot{\mu_t}(x_1) + \dot{\sigma_t}(x_1) \bigg( \frac{x - \mu_t(x_1)}{\sigma_t(x_1)} \bigg) \end{equation*} $$ as claimed.

Example: Linear interpolation A simple choice for the mean $\mu_t(x_1)$ and std. $\sigma_t(x_1)$ is the linear interpolation for both, i.e. \[\begin{align*} \hlone{\mu_t(x_1)} &\triangleq t x_1 \quad &\text{and} \quad \hlthree{\sigma_t(x_1)} &\triangleq (1 - t) + t \sigmamin \\ \hltwo{\dot{\mu}_t(x_1)} &\triangleq x_1 \quad &\text{and} \quad \hlfour{\dot{\sigma}_t(x_1)} &\triangleq -1 + \sigmamin \end{align*}\] \[\begin{align*} \hlone{\mu_t(x_1)} &\triangleq t x_1 \quad &\text{and} \quad \hlthree{\sigma_t(x_1)} &\triangleq (1 - t) + t \sigmamin \\ \hltwo{\dot{\mu}_t(x_1)} &\triangleq x_1 \quad &\text{and} \quad \hlfour{\dot{\sigma}_t(x_1)} &\triangleq -1 + \sigmamin \end{align*}\] so that \[\begin{equation*} \big( {\hlone{\mu_0(x_1)}} + {\hlthree{\sigma_0(x_1)}} x_1 \big) \sim p_0 \quad \text{and} \quad \big( {\hlone{\mu_1(x_1)}} + {\hlthree{\sigma_1(x_1)}} x_1 \big) \sim \mathcal{N}(x_1, \sigmamin^2 I) \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \big( {\hlone{\mu_0(x_1)}} + {\hlthree{\sigma_0(x_1)}} x_1 \big) \sim p_0 \quad \text{and} \quad \big( {\hlone{\mu_1(x_1)}} + {\hlthree{\sigma_1(x_1)}} x_1 \big) \sim \mathcal{N}(x_1, \sigmamin^2 I) \end{equation*}\] In addition, letting $p_0 = \mathcal{N}([-\mu, 0], I)$ and $p_1 = \mathcal{N}([+\mu, 0], I)$ for some $\mu > 0$, were back to the \ref{eq:g2g} example from earlier. We can then plug this choice of $\mu_t(x_1)$ and $\sigma_t(x_1)$ into \eqref{eq:gaussian-path} to obtain the conditional vector field, writing $\hlthree{\sigma_t(x_1)} = 1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t$ to make our lives simpler, \[\begin{equation*} \begin{split} u_t(x \mid x_1) &= \frac{\hlfour{- (1 - \sigmamin)}}{\hlthree{1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t}} (x - \hlone{t x_1}) + \hltwo{x_1} \\ &= \frac{1}{(1 - t) + t \sigmamin} \bigg( - (1 - \sigmamin) (x - t x_1) + \big(1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t \big) x_1 \bigg) \\ &= \frac{1}{(1 - t) + t \sigmamin} \bigg( - (1 - \sigmamin) x + x_1 \bigg) \\ &= \frac{x_1 - (1 - \sigmamin) x}{1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t}. \end{split} \end{equation*}\] \[\begin{equation*} \begin{split} u_t(x \mid x_1) &= \frac{\hlfour{- (1 - \sigmamin)}}{\hlthree{1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t}} (x - \hlone{t x_1}) + \hltwo{x_1} \\ &= \frac{1}{(1 - t) + t \sigmamin} \bigg( - (1 - \sigmamin) (x - t x_1) + \big(1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t \big) x_1 \bigg) \\ &= \frac{1}{(1 - t) + t \sigmamin} \bigg( - (1 - \sigmamin) x + x_1 \bigg) \\ &= \frac{x_1 - (1 - \sigmamin) x}{1 - (1 - \sigmamin) t}. \end{split} \end{equation*}\] Below you can see the difference between $\phi_t(x_0)$ (top figure) and $\phi_t(x_0 \mid x_1)$ (bottom figure) for pairs $(x_0, x_1)$ with $x_0 \sim p_0$ and $x_1 = \phi_t(x_0)$. The paths are coloured by the sign of the 2nd vector component of $x_0$ to more clearly highlight the difference between the marginal and conditional flows.

But is CFM really all rainbows and unicorns?

Unfortunately not, no. There are two issues arising from crossing conditional paths. We will explain this just after, but now we stress that this leads to

Non-straight marginal paths $\Rightarrow$ ODE hard to integrate $\Rightarrow$ slow sampling at inference. Many possible $x_1$ for a noised $x_t$ $\Rightarrow$ high CFM loss variance $\Rightarrow$ slow training convergence.

To get a better understanding of what these two points above, lets revisit the \ref{eq:g2g} example once more. As we see in the figures below, realizations of the conditional vector field $u_t(x \mid x_1)$, i.e. sampling from the process

result in paths that are quite different from the marginal paths as illustrated in the figures below.

In particular, we can see that the marginal paths $\phi_t(x)$ do not cross; this is indeed just the uniqueness property of ODE solutions. A realization of the conditional vector field $u_t(x \mid x_1)$ also exhibits the non-crossing paths property, similar to the marginal flows $\phi_t(x)$, however paths $\phi_t(x \mid x_1)$ corresponding to different realizations $x_1 \sim q_1$ may intersect, as highlighted in the figure above.

Consider two highlighted paths in the visualization of $u_t(x \mid x_1)$, with data samples $\hlone{x_1^{(1)}}$ and $\hlthree{x_1^{(2)}}$. When learning a parameterized vector field $u_{\theta}(t, x)$ via stochastic gradient descent (SGD), we approximate the CFM loss as:

where $t \sim \mathcal{U}[0, 1]$, $\hlone{x_1^{(1)}}, \hlthree{x_1^{(2)}} \sim q_1$, and $\hlone{x_t^{(1)}} \sim p_t(\cdot \mid \hlone{x_1^{(1)}}), \hlthree{x_t^{(2)}} \sim p_t(\cdot \mid \hlthree{x_1^{(2)}})$. We compute the gradient with respect to $\theta$ for a gradient step.

In such a scenario, were attempting to align $u_{\theta}(t, x)$ with two different vector fields whose corresponding paths are impossible under the marginal vector field $u(t, x)$ that were trying to learn! This fact can lead to increased variance in the gradient estimate, and thus slower convergence.

In slightly more complex scenarios, the situation becomes even more striking. Below we see a nice example from Liu et al. (2022) where our reference and target are two different mixture of Gaussians in 2D differing only by the sign of the mean in the x-component. Specifically,

where we set $\mu = 10$, unless otherwise specified.

Here we see that marginal paths (bottom figure) end up looking very different from the conditional paths (top figure). Indeed, at training time paths may intersect, whilst at sampling time they cannot (due to the uniqueness of the ODE solution). As such we see on the bottom plot that some (marginal) paths are quite curved and would therefore require a greater number of discretisation steps from the ODE solver during inference.

We can also see how this leads to a significant variance of the CFM loss estimate for $t \approx 0.5$ in the figure below. More generally, samples from the reference distribution which are arbitrarily close to eachothers can be associated with either target modes, leading to high variance in the vector field regression loss.

An intuitive solution would be to associate data samples with reference samples which are close instead of some arbitrary pairing. Well detail this idea next via the concept of couplings and optimal transport.

Coupling

So far we have constructed the vector field $u_t$ by conditioning and marginalising over data points $x_1$. This is referred to as a one-sided conditioning, where the probability path is constructed by marginalising over $z=x_1$:

e.g. \(p(x_t \mid x_1) = \mathcal{N}(x_t \mid x_1, (1-t)^2)\).

Yet, more generally, we can consider conditioning and marginalising over latent variables $z$, and minimising the following loss:

As suggested in Liu et al. (2023), Tong et al. (2023), Albergo & Vanden-Eijnden (2022) and Pooladian et al. (2023) one can condition on both endpoints $z=(x_1, x_0)$ of the process, referred as two-sided conditioning. The marginal probability path is defined as:

The following boundary condition on $p_t(x_t \mid x_1, x_0)$: $p_0(\cdot \mid x_1, x_0)=\delta_{x_0}$ and $p_1(\cdot \mid x_1, x_0) = \delta_{x_1}$ is required so that the marginal has the proper conditions $p_0 = q_0$ and $p_1 = q_1$.

For instance, a deterministic linear interpolation gives $p(x_t \mid x_0, x_1) = \delta_{(1-t)} x_0 + t x_1(x_t)$ and the simplest choice regarding the coupling $z = (x_1, x_0)$ is to consider independent samples: $q(x_1, x_0) = q_1(x_1) q_0(x_0)$.

One main advantage is that this allows for non Gaussian reference distribution $q_0$. Choosing a standard normal as noise distribution $q(x_0) = \mathcal{N}(0, \mathrm{I})$ we recover the same one-sided conditional probability path as earlier:

Optimal Transport (OT) coupling

Now lets go back to the idea of not using an independent coupling (i.e. pairing) but instead to correlate pairs $(x_1, x_0)$ with a joint $q(x_1, x_0)

eq q_1(x_1) q_0(x_0)$. Tong et al. (2023) and Pooladian et al. (2023) suggest using the optimal transport coupling

which minimises the optimal transport (i.e. Wasserstein) cost (Monge, 1781, Peyre and Cuturi 2020). The OT coupling $\pi$ associates samples $x_0$ and $x_1$ such that the total distance is minimised.

This OT coupling is illustrated in the right hand side of the figure below, adapted from Tong et al. (2023). In contrast to the middle figure which an independent coupling, the OT one does not have paths that cross. This leads to lower training variance and faster sampling.

In practice, we cannot compute the optimal coupling $\pi$ between $x_1 \sim q_1$ and $x_0 \sim q_0$, as algorithms solving this problem are only known for finite distributions. In fact, finding a map from $q_0$ to $q_1$ is the generative modelling problem that we are trying to solve in the first place!

Tong et al. (2023) and Pooladian et al. (2023) propose to approximate the OT coupling $\pi$ by computing such optimal coupling only over each mini-batch of data and noise samples, coined mini-batch OT (Fatras et al., 2020). This is scalable as for finite collection of samples the OT problem can be computed with quadratic complexity via the Sinkhorn algorithm (Peyre and Cuturi, 2020). This results in a joint distribution $\gamma(i, j)$ over inputs \(\big(x_0^{(i)}\big)_{i=1,\dots,B}\) and outputs \(\big(x_1^{(j)}\big)_{j=1,\dots,B}\) such that the expected distance is (approximately) minimised. Finally, to construct a mini-batch from this $\gamma$ which we can subsequently use for training, we can either compute the expectation wrt. $\gamma(i, j)$ by considering all $n^2$ pairs (in practice, this can often boil down to only needing to consider $n$ disjoint pairs) or sample a new collection of training pairs $(x_0^{(i)}, x_1^{(j)})$ with $(i, j) \sim \gamma$.

For example, we can apply this to the \eqref{eq:g2g} example from before, which almost completely removes the crossing paths behaviour described earlier, as can be seen in the figure below.

We also observe similar behavior when applying this the more complex example \eqref{eq:mog2mog}, as can be seen in the figure below.

All in all, making use of mini-batch OT seems to be a strict improvement over the uniform sampling approach to constructing the mini-batch in the above examples and has been shown to improve practical performance in a wide range of applications (Tong et al., 2023; Klein et al., 2023).

Its worth noting that in \eqref{eq:ot} we only considered choosing the coupling $\gamma(i, j)$ such that we minimize the expected squared Euclidean distance. This works well in the examples \eqref{eq:g2g} and \eqref{eq:mog2mog}, but we could also replace squared Euclidean distance with some other distance metric when constructing the coupling $\gamma(i, j)$. For example, if we were modeling molecules using CNFs, it might also make sense to pick $(i, j)$ such that $x_0^{(i)}$ and $x_1^{(j)}$ are also rotationally aligned as is done in the work of Klein et al. (2023).

Quick Summary

In short, weve shown that flow matching is an efficient approach to training continuous normalising flows (CNFs), by directly regressing over the vector field instead of explicitly training by maximum likelihood. This is enabled by constructing the target vector field as the marginalisation of simple conditional vector fields which (marginally) interpolate between the reference and data distribution, but crucially for which we can evaluate and integrate over time. A neural network parameterising the vector field can then be trained by regressing over these conditional vector fields. Similarly to CNFs, samples can be obtained at inference time by solving the ODE associated with the neural vector field.

In this post we have not talked about diffusion (i.e. score based) models on purpose as they are not necessary for understanding flow matching. Yet these are deeply related and even exactly the same in some settings. We are planning to explore these connections, along with generalisations in a follow-up post!

Citation

Please cite us as:

@misc{mathieu2024flow, title = "An Introduction to Flow Matching", author = "Fjelde, Tor and Mathieu, Emile and Dutordoir, Vincent", journal = "https://mlg.eng.cam.ac.uk/blog/", year = "2024", month = "January", url = "https://mlg.eng.cam.ac.uk/blog/2024/01/20/flow-matching.html" }

Acknowledgments

We deeply thank Michael Albergo, Valentin Debortoli and James Thornton for giving insightful feedback! And thank you to Andrew Foong for pointing out several typos and rendering issues!

References

Published on 20 January 2024.

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A Morganton man received drug charges after an early Thursday morning traffic stop.

Robert Alan Foster, 63, of Morganton, was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a schedule II controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and failing to stop at a steady red light, according to a release from the Morganton Department of Public Safety.

Foster was charged after an MDPS officer conducted a traffic stop on a red passenger car for failing to stop at a red light around 1:14 a.m. Thursday, the release said.

A person in the vehicle was on probation and engaged in criminal activity, resulting in a probation search of the vehicle, the release said.

The search turned up several empty wrappers for suboxone that were not in a prescription bottle, a meth pipe, a set of digital scales and a small plastic baggie with some methamphetamine in it, the release said.

When the officer searched Foster, a prescription bottle containing a large baggie of methamphetamine and $1,528 in cash was found, the release said.

Officers ended up seizing 19 grams of methamphetamine total, the release said.

Foster has a previous conviction of possession of a schedule II controlled substance from 1989, according to records from the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.

His bond was set at $10,000 secured, the release said.
The State Board of Election decided unanimously that North Carolina is complying with the Help America Vote Acts requirement to remove duplicate voter records from the statewide registration database.

Still, some board members said Thursday that elections officials could do more to clear the rolls of duplicate registrations. Board members began to discuss ways to add drivers license numbers to existing voter registration records to more easily identify duplicates.

Cleaning up the rolls is extraordinarily important, said Board Chairman Alan Hirsch.

Carol Snow of the NC Audit Force, who also is a Burke County resident, filed a complaint with the elections board claiming that inadequate maintenance of the computerized registered voter list put the state out of compliance with the 2002 federal voting law. Snow presented examples of what appeared to be duplicate voter registrations where names were misspelled or first and middle names were transposed.

Clone registrations can be used for voter fraud, she said.

The NC Audit Force was one of the groups calling for a forensic audit after the 2020 election based on the myth that massive voter fraud denied Donald Trump a second term as president.

At Thursdays hearing, Snow presented seven examples where she said it was possible people voted twice in an election.

Paul Cox, the boards general counsel, explained that no one voted twice in any of those cases. Several of Snows examples were the result of poll workers misspelling names or creating a new record when failing to realize the voter was already registered. In another example, a son with the same name as his father was mistakenly checked in as his father, Cox said. The father and son both received ballots and each voted once. Another of Snows examples was a case of twins voting.

The state elections office manages the voter registration database and sets polices for maintenance, Cox said. County elections officials process voter registrations and maintain the voter list.

Elections workers remove thousands of duplicates every year and prevent the creation of new duplicates, he said. Duplicates are created when voters reregister after a move or change their names.

The methods elections officials use to find duplicates are designed to prevent false hits that would remove voters from the rolls in error, Cox said. This is an important balance to strike and get right, he said.

While the elections board determined that the state is not breaking the law, some said they want to adopt some of Snows suggested remedies, such as beginning to collect more drivers license or partial Social Security numbers, or using the computer programming language those in Snows group used to find duplicates.

An old voter registration form that didnt require a partial Social Security number or a drivers license number left more than 200,000 registration records without that identifying information, said board member Stacy Four Eggers IV.

That form was defective and we need to do something to address it and correct it, he said.

However, the board was divided on how quickly elections officials should start collecting the additional identifying information.

Hirsch and Eggers said elections workers could begin collecting drivers license numbers from voters who show up for the runoff primaries.

Board members Siobhan Millen and Jeff Carmon questioned the timetable. Carmon asked whether elections officials have the authority to ask for more information. Millen balked at dropping another duty on elections officials in a short time.
Jeremy Pickard, PhD, dean of instruction and dean of ag business and professional services for Muscatine Community College, has been selected as Eastern Iowa Community Colleges' next Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

The appointment is set to begin June 1.

After serving several decades in various leadership roles for EICC at Muscatine Community College (MCC), Pickard was selected after a long search for the right candidate. Pickard has been instrumental in representing EICC on numerous projects, including the State of Iowas Transfer Majors Steering Committee, the Regional Planning Partnership for college and career readiness with K-12 partners, and the HLC Assessment Academy Team. His collaborative efforts with local businesses and industries on workforce development projects further underscore his dedication to fostering community partnerships.

"I am honored and excited to continue my journey with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges," Pickard said. "EICC has been my home for over two decades, and I am deeply committed to our mission and values. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated faculty and staff to shape the future of education and empower our students to achieve their fullest potential."

Scott Community College President Ann Lawler will continue to serve as the Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs until Pickard assumes his new role. Lawler will also oversee the search for Pickard's replacement as Dean of Agriculture, Business, and Professional Services, with the goal of having the new appointment in place by summer.

"Dr. Pickard's multifaceted experience within EICC and his extensive involvement in collaborative initiatives with colleagues and external partners make him an exceptional choice for Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said EICCs Interim Chancellor Dr. Liang Chee Wee. His commitment to academic excellence, student success, and his vision for the future of education and career readiness align well with EICC's mission."

Photos: EICC students compete in inaugural welding competition
Ulviyya Shahin

Police officers uncovered machine guns and grenades in Khankendi city, Azernews reports, citing the Press Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA).

It was reported that on April 10, 3 automatic weapons, 3 rifles, 4 grenades, 4 lighters, 15 cartridge combs, 860 cartridges of different calibers, 7 bayonets, 3 communication devices and other ammunition were found and taken from the territory of Khankendi city on April 10.

Recall that arms and munitions have been found in undisclosed locations, including the basements of schools, nurseries, and assorted structures, in the liberated regions of Azerbaijan's Garabagh.

Once more, the presence of weaponry linked to Armenian separatists has been affirmed, indicating illicit efforts by Armenians to engage in terrorist activities and provocations within Azerbaijani territories.

It is worth noting that on September 19, 2023, the Azerbaijani Army conducted swift anti-terrorist operations resulting in the disarmament of Armenian separatists in Garabagh. Subsequently, leaders of separatist factions were apprehended and brought to Baku, where they were lawfully detained.
On Thursday, April 11, former Communications Authority (CA) Director General (DG) Ezra Chiloba revealed that his net worth is Kes.800 million.

The former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) CEO made the revelation during his vetting as Kenyas Consular General in Los Angeles, California State, USA. Chiloba faced questioning from the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, which sought to understand how he amassed such wealth at the age of 46, having solely worked in the public sector.

There are some doubts about you, from what you have presented it shows you have never worked in the private sector meaning you have been in the public sector all your life, yet you have an enormous Kes..800 million in wealth. Can you explain that? Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan posed.

Chiloba explained that he started working while still studying at the University of Nairobi and had also earned a substantial income from his previous positions. He attributed his multi-million wealth to his fixed assets and involvement in agribusiness ventures. Additionally, he stated that he provides consultancy services and receives a salary from formal employment.

I have been very fortunate, because I started working while still in school in 2001. Currently, I engage in agri-business and I plant and sell avocados in my farm in Kitale. Over the years I have also been able to save money derived from formal employment and my consultancy business, Chiloba said.

Chiloba also faced scrutiny over why controversies appeared to trail him in his past roles in public office. He struggled to justify his controversial resignations from both the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Communications Authority.

Scandalous Person

The committee led by Belgut MP Nelson Koech voiced concern that, given his track record, Chiloba might precipitate another scandal in his new position and abruptly depart, potentially tarnishing Kenyas reputation if approved by the National Assembly.

From your CV you are restless. It shows you serve for a few years and at times even months then leave for another job. Can we really trust that you will stay should be appointed for this job? Yusuf Hassan asked.

Baringo Central MP Joshua Kandie pointed out accusations against Chiloba for mishandling the 2017 General Election during his tenure at IEBC, and for purported mismanagement of staff mortgages while at CA.

Im afraid you seem to be a scandalous person. Will you not produce another scandal? in Los Angeles? The reports of what happened at IEBC and CA are all out there for everyone Im afraid this gentleman will go to LA and produce another scandal. Ive worked in LA and there are many Kenyans who live there, the lawmaker noted.

EACC Clearance

Chiloba stated that he had been absolved of any wrongdoing within these institutions, referencing a letter from the EACC that exonerated him from alleged mismanagement of funds at CA.

In the letter dated April 4, 2024, addressed to the Director General of CA, David Mugonyi, the commission stated that there was insufficient evidence to support the allegations against Mr. Chiloba.

My exit from the authority was due to a conflict of vision with some people. I decided to exit because I did not want things to escalate to where they were when I was at IEBC.

The matter was investigated and EACC has given me a clean bill of health. The EACC noted that I was not given an opportunity to explain myself on the matter, Chiloba said.

Regarding the controversies at IEBC, the Consular General nominee asserted that he implemented numerous positive reforms during his tenure, some of which were utilized in the 2022 elections. He lamented that the attention consistently gravitated towards the aspects that went wrong.

Personally, I contributed to some reforms which were even used by the commission to manage the last elections. But we are always checking on what has gone wrong, Chiloba said.
Three suspects linked to the viral robbery and shooting of Adan Ali Mohamed along Muratina Street in Eastleigh on March 30 were last Sunday found dead at the city mortuary in Nairobi.

Reports indicate that the bodies were initially recovered at a river in Lari, Kiambu County where they were picked by the police and booked at the mortuary. The suspects have been identified as Fredrick Kopo alias Frik, Jaylan Kibe, and a woman only identified as Esther, who was said to be close to Kibe.

On Tuesday, Kibe was laid to rest at the Kariokor Muslim Cemetery in accordance with Muslim customs. Meanwhile, autopsies were planned for the other two bodies.

According to reports, Kopo sustained severe injuries, including a missing eye and a broken leg.

Detectives investigating the incident had placed him at the scene of the shooting, asserting that he was the one who pulled the trigger, causing serious injury to Adans neck and robbing him of Kes.3.9 Million.

Reportedly, four days following the Eastleigh robbery, Kopo, Kibe, and Esther traveled to Mombasa to purchase a vehicle. During their visit to a car dealership, three individuals approached them, persuading them of a better deal.

The Daily Nation reports that they purportedly trailed these individuals to a showroom in Mombasa, after which their whereabouts became unknown.

The circumstances surrounding their deaths in Nairobi County, as well as the collection of their bodies from three distinct locations, remain unclear.

The discovery of the bodies came after police had reported the arrest of one of the suspects on Wednesday last week, raising further suspicions about how their bodies were later found in a river in Kiambu.

On Wednesday, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) condemned the deaths, asserting that if the police believed the individuals were implicated in the violent robbery, they should have been formally charged in court.

It would have been important for them to be arrested and charged. The procedures that should be followed in such a case are very clear, said Human Rights lawyer, Martin Mavenjina of the KHRC.

Kopo, Kibe and Esther are said to have been childhood friends.
Siaya County police are probing the death of a man whose body was found hanging in his bedroom.

Pascal Okoth Akelo, 46, was found dead by his relative at Pap Yamo village, West Alego location in Alego/Usonga sub-county, Citizen Digital reports.

Siaya County Police Commander Cleti Kimaiyo stated that the Assistant Chief of Komenya sub-location, Elizabeth Awino, reported the incident to Mwer Police Patrol Base.

He mentioned that officers from the patrol base visited the scene and discovered that the deceased had hanged himself using a leso inside his bedroom.

The County police boss indicated that preliminary investigations revealed that last year, the deceased had attempted suicide by jumping from a three-story building in Nairobi. He noted that the deceased did not leave any note behind.

Kimaiyo added that the scene was processed and documented before the body was transported to Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.
In an announcement Thursday, vaccine maker Moderna revealed the suspension of its plans to construct a vaccine manufacturing facility in Kenya.

The factory, which was to be built at Tatu City at a cost of $500 million (Sh65 Billion), was set to break ground in coming months.

Moderna was one of the manufacturers of the mRNA Covid vaccines, and is working to develop more vaccines on the technology.

This decision aligns with the companys broader strategy to adjust its production network in response to the decreased demand for Covid-19 vaccines post-pandemic. The company reported massive losses after COVID vaccine orders, particularly from Africa, were cancelled.

The proposed facility, which was expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing vaccine accessibility across Africa, will no longer go forward as previously planned. It is unclear whether this is a permanent cancellation or whether the project has just been put on hold.

A plot had already been earmarked for the company at Kiambu-based Tatu City, but Moderna was reportedly yet to make a down-payment.

Despite this setback, Moderna continues to focus heavily on innovation, earmarking approximately $4.5 billion for research and development this year.

This investment is aimed at advancing a range of new vaccines targeting diseases such as cancer and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), alongside early-stage mRNA vaccine projects for HIV and malaria.

Given this, and in alignment with our strategic planning, Moderna believes it is prudent to pause its efforts to build an mRNA manufacturing facility in Kenya, the company stated, emphasizing the need to align infrastructure investments with the shifting healthcare landscape and vaccine requirements in Africa.

Initially, in 2022, Moderna had committed around $500 million to the Kenyan manufacturing site, projecting an annual production capacity of up to 500 million doses of its mRNA vaccines for distribution across the continent.

Plans also included the commencement of vaccine filling operations in Africa as early as 2023.

However, with the decline in COVID vaccine demand following the pandemics end and a lack of subsequent vaccine orders for Africa since 2022, the company has opted to adjust its operational focus and strategy.

This development is a massive blow to the government, which has been trying to attract blockbuster investments in a bid to grow the economy and create jobs.
On Thursday, a Kenol Court penalized a 24-year-old woman after she admitted to trafficking five rolls of marijuana valued at Kes.150.

Rosemary Ngaruiya, who appeared before Muranga Resident Magistrate Jackinda Rennah, faced charges for possessing the five rolls of marijuana without a medical prescription on April 8, 2024, at her rented house in Wempa, Muranga South.

Prosecutor Millicent Oduor informed the court that police from the Wempa police post, acting on a tip-off from members of the public, searched her house.

The prosecutor informed the court that the five rolls of marijuana, presented as evidence in court, were discovered in Ngaruiyas back pocket wrapped in a black polythene bag.

Having pleaded guilty to the charges and offering no statement in mitigation, the accused was convicted based on her admission of guilt.

Resident Magistrate Jackinda ordered the accused to pay a fine of Kes.20,000, or in default, serve four months in prison.
With collaboration from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, employees of the Prosecutor General's Office and the Financial Monitoring Agency successfully extradited a suspect from Azerbaijan for criminal prosecution, specifically for the creation and leadership of an organized criminal group, Azernews reports via the General Prosecutor's Office of Kazakhstan.

Between 2016 and 2018, the suspect took over direct leadership of a criminal cell that smuggled consumer items into Kazakhstan while also dodging customs and taxes. This cost the Kazakhstani economy more than 4 billion tenge ($8.8 million).

"Following the crimes, the suspect fled and was added to a worldwide wanted list. Authorities then tracked down the culprit within Azerbaijan's borders. The Azerbaijani General Prosecutor's Office granted the extradition request from the Prosecutor's Office of Kazakhstan," the press service of the General Prosecutor's Office of Kazakhstan said.

It was highlighted that the suspect is being housed in an investigative isolator in Aktau, Kazakhstan.

"The accused faces a seven- to twelve-year prison sentence, as well as asset confiscation. Notably, in December 2019, the court in the Mangystau region convicted twelve individuals involved in the same organized criminal group to varied terms," the press service added.




Valmet is taking process automation further by introducing the next-generation distributed control system (DCS), the Valmet DNAe.

The fully web-based process control system comes with a new cybersecure system architecture, control software and hardware, engineering and analytics tools, helping customers improve efficiency, productivity, sustainability and safety of their operations.

The new Valmet DNAe represents a major milestone in process automation. It provides a solid platform for moving towards more digitalised, autonomous operations, helping our customers thrive in the changing business environment. In the development of this new system, we have focused on usability and performance, with a modular approach that enables upgrade paths also from our previous system generations, says Emilia Torttila-Miettinen, President, Automation Systems business line at Valmet.

Major step

The launch is a major step in the companys roadmap for growing its automation business further and in bringing unrivalled future-proof automation solutions to a wide base of process industries globally. With this new system, the company will have an excellent opportunity to continue expanding the footprint of its automation systems business worldwide.

Designed for all process automation user groups

Valmet DNAe is developed with a design philosophy to empower people to perform and collaborate better across the organisation. The system provides a common user interface for controls, analytics, configuration, and maintenance. Intuitive workflows simplify operations and enable users to manage larger process areas with less effort.

Advanced analytics tools enable turning real-time and historical data into actionable insights. Additionally, the new web-based configuration environment provides a unified environment for all engineering needs from office to field, enhancing flexibility in configuration and maintenance tasks. These features are designed to increase the operational efficiency of our customers.

A high-performing DCS

Valmet DNAe has been engineered for demanding process control, emphasising performance and availability. The system empowers users to seamlessly run industrial applications on-premise, at the edge server, or in the cloud. It features a scalable redundant data platform, granting easy and controlled access to all data.

The system architecture is cybersecure by design, with role-based access control, authentication, audit trail and encryption mechanisms for proactive prevention of cyber threats. With smooth OT/IT (Operational technology / Information technology) connectivity through secure communication interfaces with external systems, Valmet DNAe establishes a robust base for advancing digitalisation and autonomous operations.

Step-by-step upgrade paths

In alignment with Valmets lifetime systems compatibility promise, a leading principle in Valmet DNAes development has been to make it easy for Valmets existing process automation customers to benefit from the latest technology.

The new Valmet DNAe Distributed Control System shares its web-based user interface, analytics tools, and common hardware with the previous generation of Valmet DNA. Additionally, Valmet also introduces a new modular controller and a single-channel I/O as new hardware options for Valmet DNAe.

The lifecycle approach enables flexible step-by-step upgrade paths for a sustainable and cost-efficient system evolution. We have already delivered over 200 new generation user interface upgrade projects to various industries. The first full Valmet DNAe systems have also been successfully delivered to customers. An important part of Valmet's strategy is to cover a wide base of global process industries in the automation business, and with this new system, we will have an excellent opportunity to continue expanding the footprint of our DCS business globally, says Torttila-Miettinen.

Valmet DNAe will be introduced in various events during spring 2024, starting with Pulp&Beyond in Helsinki, Finland from April 10 to 11.--TradeArabia News Service
Liverpool stunned by Atalanta in Europa League

Mohamed Salah had a goal disallowed for offside before Atalanta made it 3-0. Photo: Reuters

Liverpool's hopes of winning the Europa League were left hanging by a thread after they lost 3-0 at home to Atalanta in the first leg of their quarter-final tie on Thursday, while Bayer Leverkusen beat West Ham United to extend their unbeaten record this season.



Liverpool, who started with Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai among the substitutes, saw Harvey Elliott come agonisingly close to opening the scoring with a shot that hit the bar and struck the post on its way back out.



Atalanta then took the lead seven minutes before half-time when Davide Zappacosta's low ball in from the right was finished off first-time by former West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca.



The same player made it 2-0 on the hour with a fine finish from Charles De Ketelaere's assist.



Salah, who had come on at the start of the second half, then had a goal disallowed for offside before Atalanta made it 3-0 with seven minutes left.



Recent history suggests there is still hope for Klopp's side, as they won 5-0 away to Atalanta in Bergamo in the Champions League group stage in 2020/21, a campaign in which they also lost to the Italian side at Anfield.



In Germany, Bundesliga champions-elect Leverkusen made it 42 games without losing in any competition this season as they beat West Ham 2-0 to seize control of their quarter-final tie.



Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface both came off the bench to score late goals for Xabi Alonso's side, with the opener arriving in the 83rd minute and the second coming in injury time.



The victory continues what could be a stunning week for Leverkusen, who are 16 points clear of Bayern Munich in Germany and can win their first Bundesliga title by beating Werder Bremen at home on Sunday.



If Leverkusen finish the job against West Ham, they will advance to a semi-final against either AC Milan or Roma, who clashed at San Siro in the first leg of their quarter-final on Thursday.



Roma ran out 1-0 winners on the night away to their Serie A rivals thanks to Gianluca Mancini's 17th-minute header from a corner. Mancini had also scored the winner in the Rome derby against Lazio last weekend.



Thursday's other game saw Benfica beat Marseille 2-1 in Lisbon in the first leg of their quarter-final. (AFP)
Beijing slams US-Japan-Philippines summit

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a press conference that China firmly opposes engaging in "closed cliques" that exclude others in the region. Photo: AFP

Beijing on Friday criticised the United States, Japan and the Philippines and defended its actions in the South China Sea as "lawful" after US President Joe Biden hosted a trilateral meeting in Washington.



Biden on Thursday pledged to defend the Philippines from any attack in the South China Sea at the White House summit.



On Friday, China hit out at the joint summit in Washington, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning saying Beijing "firmly opposes the relevant countries manipulating bloc politics, and firmly opposes any behaviour that provokes or lays plans for opposition, and hurts other countries' strategic security and interests".



"We firmly oppose engaging in closed cliques that exclude others in the region," Mao told a regular press conference.



"Japan and the Philippines can of course develop normal relations with other countries, but they should not invite factional opposition into the region, much less engage in trilateral cooperation at the cost of hurting another country's interests."



China also summoned a Japanese diplomat on Friday to express concern and dissatisfaction over negative comments about it aired during a summit of the leaders of the United States, Japan and Philippines, the Foreign Ministry said. (Agencies)
SIUs 2024 Sturgis Awards for community service go to accountant, law school leader

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Two longtime Salukis at Southern Illinois University Carbondale were honored for their commitments to their communities today (April 11) at the SIU Board of Trustees meeting.

Michael Ruiz, assistant dean for admissions and financial aid with the Simmons Law School, and Tracy Lake, an accountant in the Office of Student Engagement, received the 2024 Lindell W. Sturgis Award for their extensive involvement with a variety of campus and community organizations.

Presented by the SIU Board of Trustees since 1980, the award recognizes SIU Carbondale employees for public service unrelated to their jobs. The award honors the late Lindell Sturgis, a Metropolis native who served more than 30 years on the SIU board.

Here are Ruizs and Lakes stories.

Ruiz works to find solutions to issues

By Pete Rosenbery

Ruiz has an affinity for working to find solutions when problems arise.

It is difficult to say no when you know that you are a very lucky person, Ruiz said. When you fall into that category, you feel like you should give something back.

Now affiliated with nearly a half-dozen distinct professional and community-oriented organizations, Ruiz said he enjoys being around others who are trying to solve problems.

Many of these groups, that is what they are doing; they are working together, trying to do something or get something done, he said. Thats a lot of fun, for me, at least. It allows me to use the skill sets I have to actually bring about some positive change. I think that is why anyone does service for their church, their kids school or softball team or band is because this is how I can help. And these are ways I can help.

A 1987 graduate of Murphysboro High School, Ruiz, who lives in Herrin, saw the impact community involvement could have while in high school when he and another student chaired the schools Key Club toy drive. It had a big impact on me, he said.

Ruiz graduated from SIU Carbondale in 1990 with a bachelors degree in political science and earned his law degree in 1993 at University of Chicago Law School. He returned to the region to work as a staff attorney for Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, and he also joined Kiwanis International.

Ruiz numerous volunteer efforts with nonprofit organizations include being a board member and past president of Friends of WSIU, Murphysboro Apple Festival board member and past chair, and board memberships with the United Way of Southern Illinois, the revamped Boys and Girls Club of Southern Illinois and START (Specialized Training for Adult Rehabilitation). Ruiz was involved through the Illinois Judicial Conference to modernize existing service of process statutes, rules and procedures, and he has also been honored for his community work by the Illinois State Bar Association.

Andrea Russell, office manager in the law schools Office of Admissions and Alumni Relations, noted in her nomination that Ruiz, one of six children, knows the importance of getting along with, and working collaboratively to accomplish a goal. He knows the value of investing time, energy, and resources into serving the needs of others.

Ruiz calendar makes it very clear that public service is an integral part for Ruiz and his wife, Alicia, Russell said. He does not call attention to himself, but humbly volunteers his time, knowledge and resources.

Susan Tulis, past president of the Friends of WSIU, noted in her letter that Ruiz suggested WSIUs One Region All Neighbors initiative, which recognized people and groups who contribute to the quality of life in the region.

It is extremely important for our viewers and listeners to have access to public broadcasting, and Mike is leading the WSIU Friends Board to make sure that happens, Tulis wrote.

Regina Glover, board development committee chair for the Boys and Girls Club of Southern Illinois, noted that the organization had to temporarily close last summer, and that a fundraising campaign to reopen locations in Carbondale and Marion, along with a search for a new CEO, is underway.

The board in many ways is starting all over, and yet Mike did not hesitate to say, I think I can help, Glover wrote. Mike has hit the ground running both on the Resource Development Committee and the board. He easily shares ideas and suggestions from his work on other boards. His comments make it clear that we need to provide services for the children in Southern Illinois.

One of Ruizs most recognized affiliations is with the Murphysboro Apple Festival, a commitment that spans more than 20 years, including serving as festival general chair for four years.

Mike is not only a valuable resource for advice on legal matters but also a volunteer who goes above and beyond to ensure the festivals success, said Shawn Stearns, Apple Festival general chair and president. His willingness to do whatever is needed, coupled with his passion and commitment, make him an invaluable asset to the festival.

The nomination for the Sturgis Award was a nice surprise, said Ruiz, who will retire from SIU Carbondale in August, after 27 years in a variety of capacities. He thought the telephone call informing him of his selection was to instead inquire if he knew of anyone to nominate. Ruiz adds he knows other SIU employees who give back to their communities.

Any time the university singles out one or two people, the first thing you know is there are many people there deserving of the award, and you hope they take some small part of it, he said. Its not really an award for one person, its an award recognizing the work that everyone is doing because Im certain there are hundreds of people on campus who could have gotten this award. I was just lucky enough to be chosen.

Lake serves in Boy Scouts and other organizations

By Christi Mathis

Community service and helping others has been a way of life for a quarter of a century for Lake.

The Sturgis Award is an honor, but I dont serve for awards, Lake said. In Scouting, we teach our leaders about the concept of servant leadership, and I truly believe in that concept. I joined Future Business Leaders of America in high school and had a mentor who fostered in me a natural ability to be a leader, and it has all gone on from there.

Lake spends a great deal of her spare time helping others, said Kyle Lake in the award nomination for his wife. Her weekends are filled with camping trips and outdoor adventures with Scouts who range from the age of 5 up to 18 years old. When not outdoors, she can be found teaching merit badges and mentoring Scouts to become leaders.

He said she also works with adult Scout leaders, has served on seven national training staffs to help train future generations of Scout leaders, is the chair for the annual fundraising campaign and is district commissioner over all Scouting for the Carterville/Benton/Harrisburg/Creal Springs area.

Her evenings are a sporadic array of meetings and events for various organizations, including college student groups, mission work, church work, soup kitchen work, grant administration and so much more, he wrote. It is very rare to ever find her sitting still for long. Even an activity like watching TV usually comes with a laptop and paperwork and emails.

Tracy got involved with Future Business Leaders of America as a high school student, and for nearly 25 years, ever since graduating from SIU, she has served as the adviser for the universitys FBLA student group. During that time, she has mentored many Salukis, giving 10 hours a week or more of her time, and seen dozens win state and national awards.

When her son joined Boy Scouts of America about 16 years ago, there was a need for leadership, so she and Kyle both got involved as volunteers at the local and district level. Her role grew and evolved until she was one of three people in charge of all Scouts and units in the Egyptian District. In the past five years, she has trained leaders at the local, district and council areas and led the annual financial campaign to raise money to help ensure those without sufficient income can afford to participate in Scouting. Shes also a merit badge counselor, Family Friends of Scouting chairperson and camp staff member and has earned numerous awards, including the Egyptian District Award of Merit, the highest district award, and the Silver Beaver, the highest council award.

A decade ago, she began serving as the volunteer bookkeeper for the Hands of Hope Foundation, a mission-based organization that provides medical and educational services in the United States, Thailand and Liberia. In addition to keeping the books, she also helps collect medical supplies, pack for mission trips and assists with fundraising and event planning.

They had a need for someone who was organized, who could manage a large level of paperwork and documentation, who had some computer skills, and who could deal with people, she said.

Lake added another volunteer role three years ago when she became assistant director of the AmeriCorps program at the Herrin House of Hope. The all-volunteer organization serves thousands of meals annually to people in need while also providing clothing through the thrift store and additional food through the food pantry along with other community programs.

Lake said it is hard to fathom the amount of time she dedicates to her community service, especially when one considers how many years she has been giving her time and energy. Boy Scout meetings alone take about 50 or more hours each month, not including the additional activities, responsibilities and camps, she admits.

It is easily over 100 hours a month, and during the summer at least twice that, and I have been doing this since my son was 5, so for almost 16 years, she said.

Add in at least 10 hours a month for FBLA, 40 hours for Hands of Hope, about 80 for House of Hope and a full-time job at SIU, where shes worked for 25 years, and you can see why her husband says Tracy is constantly doing something.

I like to stay busy and keep my mind active, and these activities have fulfilled that need, she said. Most of my spare time is taken up with volunteering in some way, especially as my son has gotten older and into his own things. My husband, Kyle, is an SIU retiree, and my son, Jaden, is a senior at SIU this year. I volunteer because I can, and I really enjoy it.
SIU-affiliated event to raise funds to benefit STEM educators

by Tim Crosby

CARBONDALE, Ill.  A Southern Illinois University Carbondale-affiliated family event aimed at helping science teachers across the region is set for later this month at a local winery.

Teachers from SIUs River Region Master Teaching Fellows Program will host the Family Eco Festival, set for 1-5 p.m. April 27 at Alto Vineyards, Alto Pass.

The event is a fundraiser for the nonprofit organization Innovations in STEM Education. Money raised will be distributed to Southern Illinois teachers in need of science materials.

Renee Lopez Swalls, project manager for the River Region Master Teaching Fellowships in Environmental Sustainability program, said the ISE aims to enhance science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and improve science literacy and engagement.

ISE was founded by local educators to support effective STEM learning in the classroom and in informal settings, Swalls said. Our outreach and collaborative efforts with community leaders and organizations enhance STEM understanding and experiences and expand career opportunities.

The program offers K-12 educators assistance in developing effective classroom activities related to STEM, environmental sustainability and environmental justice, Swalls said. Last year, the fundraiser provided 10 teachers from six counties with grants that impacted more than 1,000 students.

The event includes hands-on science activities offered throughout the day, as well as a silent auction and 50/50 raffle, and arts and crafts. Demonstrations and activities this year also will include distributing free milkweed seeds, which help sustain the monarch butterfly.

The event also features live music beginning at 1 p.m. with the Buck n' John Show. Cash and The Kid take the stage at 3 p.m.

A food truck and kid-friendly snacks and soft drinks will be available throughout the day.

The sponsors for the event include Straight Up Solar, SIH, Illinois Education Association, Illinois Arts Council, AES Solar, Alto Vineyards, Southern Illinois Community Foundation, The Robert Noyce Teaching Scholarship Program, SIU River Region Sustainability and the National Science Foundation and others.
SIUs Paul Simon Institute to host NPR journalist Scott Simon

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Award-winning broadcaster, commentator and author Scott Simon will visit Southern Illinois University Carbondales Paul Simon Public Policy Institute on Wednesday, April 17, to meet with students and discuss his groundbreaking career in journalism.

Simon and John Shaw, institute director, will discuss Simons career and the challenges facing American journalism during the free, public discussion at 6 p.m. in Student Center Ballroom B. Registration to attend the discussion is recommended but not required.

The institute will also host a reception in the Student Centers John W. Corker Lounge at 5 p.m., and Simon will meet with SIU students and faculty to discuss his career in journalism.

Simon is host of National Public Radios Weekend Edition Saturday with more than 4 million regular listeners and NPRs morning podcast Up First. A native of Chicago, Simon has been with NPR for more than four decades, beginning in 1977 as its Chicago bureau chief. He has reported from all 50 states and five continents and has written nearly a dozen books. He has won virtually every major award in broadcasting, including an Emmy, the Peabody, the Columbia-DuPont, the Sidney Hillman Award and the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award. He also received the Studs Terkel Award and in 2016 was inducted as a Lincoln Laureate by The Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

Simon has hosted television specials on PBS and the BBC and appeared as a guest and commentator on major networks, including the BBC, NBC, CNN, C-SPAN and ESPN. He has contributed articles to The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times and other publications.

Scott Simon has had a remarkably wide-ranging and interesting career, with striking successes as a broadcast journalist and essay and book writer. He has reported from around the world but has also retained a deep interest in, and affection for, Illinois, Shaw said.

Attendees are encouraged to submit questions on the registration form or email questions to paulsimoninstitute@siu.edu.

More information, a list of the institutes upcoming events and past speakers and events are available.
Actor Priyanka Chopra, who is currently shooting in France for her upcoming project 'Heads of State,' shared a couple of pictures offering fans a peek into her professional life. The 'Barfi' actress, on Friday shared a series of photos on her Instagram account, featuring a total of 10 pictures from the sets of her upcoming films, 'Heads of State' and 'The Bluff'. https://www.instagram.com/p/C5qbXaRtyY7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== The actress also captured precious moments with her daughter, Malti Marie, in charming photos showcasing their mother-daughter bond. In the post's caption, she wrote "Lately," accompanied by camera, heart-eye, croissant, and ice-cream emojis. Meanwhile, on the work front, Priyanka is gearing up for her next Hollywood film 'Heads Of State'. Taking to Instagram, Priyanka gave a glimpse of the script. The page had the film's title and mentioned that Harrison Query wrote it.It also has the Priyanka's name watermarked on it. Sharing the photo, she wrote, "And we're back."She will be seen in 'Heads of State' alongside John Cena and Idris Elba. Recently, Priyanka announced her new film in collaboration with the production team of Barry Avrich's new feature documentary 'Born Hungry' as a producer. Taking to Instagram, Priyanka treated fans with this exciting news by sharing an article with a note. Priyanka and her production company Purple Pebble Pictures banner have joined Barry Avrich's new feature documentary. The note said, "Aligning with stories and filmmakers that have the ability to move the audience by having a unique point of view is what we always look for at @purplepebblepictures. @barryavrich22's new feature documentary, Born Hungry is exactly that."Priyanka added, "I was so moved by Sash's incredible story of resilience and determination, and also that it is an amazing rendition of an extremely sensitive story, it was a no-brainer for us to collaborate. We cannot wait to share this story with you." According to Deadline, 'Born Hungry' is a gritty drama about a young Indian boy who finds himself abandoned by his family, lost on trains and thousands of miles from home. Celebrity chef Sash Simpson, who was eventually adopted by a Canadian couple after surviving on the streets of Chennai alone and eating out of trash cans, is now returning to India with only hazy memories in an attempt to locate his family. Priyanka and Mary Rohlich, Head of TV and Film at Purple Pebble Pictures, will serve as producers. 'Born Hungry' premiered at the Palm Springs International Film Festival 2024 and will screen at the Hot Docs Film Festival in Toronto on April 26. Not only that, she lent her voice to Disneynature's upcoming film Tiger. The movie will be released on Disney+ Hotstar and it revolves around understanding the intricacies of the intriguing world of one of our planet's most loved creatures. On the Bollywood front, she will be seen in Farhan Akhtar's next directorial 'Jee Le Zaraa' alongside Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt. However, no update has been provided on the film since the announcement was made a couple of years ago. (ANI)
In the enchanted world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where magic and mystery intertwine, Daniel Radcliffe, the iconic face of Harry Potter, experienced moments of fear and trepidation. However, it wasn't just the dark corridors and sinister creatures of the wizarding world that sent shivers down his spine; it was the formidable presence of Alan Rickman, who portrayed the enigmatic Severus Snape, that left Radcliffe "terrified" during the filming of the first three Harry Potter movies. During a candid conversation on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, as reported by Deadline, Radcliffe unveiled a side of his experience on set that fans may not have expected. "I was so intimidated by Alan Rickman. How can you not be by that voice?" Radcliffe confessed, alluding to Rickman's unmistakable deep and commanding tone that lent an aura of authority to his portrayal of Snape. "Even hearing that voice, you forget quite how low it was until it echoes through you. I was so intimidated by him for the first three movies. I was terrified by him and was like, 'This guy hates me,'" he said as per Deadline. Radcliffe's revelation sheds light on the complexity of emotions that can surface on a film set, even amidst the camaraderie of the cast and crew. Despite the magical facade of the Harry Potter universe, the young actors grappled with real-life emotions, including apprehension and self-doubt. However, as the story unfolded, so did the dynamics between Radcliffe and Rickman. The veteran actor's admiration for Radcliffe's talent and determination became apparent in a poignant interview he gave before his passing. Reflecting on Radcliffe's success on Broadway at the time, Rickman expressed a sense of "huge pride" and acknowledged the immense pressure that weighed on the shoulders of the young stars from an early age. Radcliffe recounted Rickman's unwavering support, revealing, "He cut short a vacation in Canada to come and see me in Equus. He saw every piece of stage work I did when he was alive. He would take me out afterwards, and we would talk about it." This glimpse into their off-screen relationship highlights the profound impact that mentorship and encouragement can have, transcending the boundaries of fictional narratives. The evolution of Radcliffe and Rickman's relationship mirrors the growth of their characters within the Harry Potter series. From initial apprehension to mutual respect and camaraderie, their journey parallels that of Harry Potter and Severus Snape, whose dynamic is marked by complexity and nuance. Radcliffe's candid revelation provides fans with a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics behind the scenes of the beloved film franchise. It serves as a reminder that behind the magic and spectacle lies a tapestry of human emotions and relationships, shaped by shared experiences and mutual admiration. As fans revisit the Harry Potter series, they can now appreciate the depth of emotion and the layers of complexity that Radcliffe and his co-stars brought to their performances. Beyond the spells and potions, it is the genuine connections forged between actors that truly enchant audiences and leave a lasting legacy. In the realm of Harry Potter, where bravery is celebrated and friendships endure, Radcliffe's confession serves as a testament to the power of vulnerability and authenticity. Just as Harry Potter faced his fears with courage, Radcliffe confronted his apprehensions, ultimately finding solace and camaraderie in the unlikeliest of places, the heart of Hogwarts itself. In the magical world of cinema, where imagination knows no bounds, Radcliffe's journey from fear to friendship with Alan Rickman exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring bonds forged on and off-screen. (ANI)
Overseas Chinese inspired by latest Xi-Ma meeting

08:56, April 12, 2024 By Chang Jun ( China Daily

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Ma Ying-jeou, former chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang party, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Photo by Ju Peng / Xinhua]

Many overseas Chinese in the United States, especially those from Taiwan, felt inspired by the meeting on Wednesday between Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Ma Ying-jeou, former chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang party, in Beijing, calling it "a milestone and a fresh start".

During the meeting with Ma and members of a Taiwan youth delegation, who were visiting the Chinese mainland on an 11-day trip, Xi emphasized several times that "compatriots from both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to the same Chinese nation", "people on both sides of the Strait are all Chinese", and "there are no knots that cannot be untied, no issues that cannot be discussed, and no forces that can separate us".

Beijing's message is loud and clear, said Zhang Ruwei, a community leader in the San Francisco Bay Area. "It is the reiteration of adhering to the 1992 Consensus which embodies the one-China principle, the key to promoting peaceful development of cross-Strait relations."

Meanwhile, "we can feel the tremendous efforts Beijing has made to highlight the 'kinship' and 'affection' in a 'family'  all in all, it is the shared culture, tradition and history that define who are Chinese", and "the statement leaves no room for any foreign forces that want to interfere in China's internal affairs", he said.

It is noticeable that on the Qingming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, which fell on April 4, "Ma paid his first in-person tribute to the ancestral Emperor Huangdi at his mausoleum in Shaanxi province, which is also the first such in-person tribute by a former Taiwan island leader", Zhang said.

Ma's tribute signifies the importance and necessity for Chinese across the Strait to remember their shared origins, honor common ancestors and respect national traditions that have lasted for thousands of years, Zhang added.

Betty Yuan, one of the founding members of the Chinese Peaceful Unification of Northern California, who is from Taiwan, said, "It seems to me the Taiwan Strait will no longer be an obstacle preventing Chinese on both sides from reunification."

Watching the livestream meeting between Xi and Ma in Beijing made her emotional, Yuan said. "They are so close to each other, the table is like the Taiwan Strait  narrow, shallow and can be crossed easily."

Over the years, Yuan has been a strong advocate of the 1992 Consensus, and a persevering voice against "Taiwan independence". With thousands of overseas Chinese, she has participated in protests in the US against Taiwan separatist leaders, including Lee Teng-hui, Chen Shui-bian and Tsai Ing-wen.

"It was encouraging to see Xi and Ma meet in Beijing for the first time since they met in Singapore in 2015. It is especially inspiring to hear that Ma pledged to stick to the 1992 Consensus," Yuan said.

David Shu, an immigrant from Shandong province who married a Taiwan woman, said members of the Taiwan youth delegation can be messengers to share with their Taiwan peers that "the mainland has always kept the welfare of Taiwan compatriots in mind, sharing the opportunities from Chinese modernization and the achievements of development and progress of the mainland with them", as Xi mentioned during the meeting.

Shu said he was happy to see that there were 20 Taiwan students in the delegation. "I believe exchanges and collaboration between youths (across the Strait) should continue, and it will yield abundant fruits because there is goodwill and faith among young compatriots in Taiwan," he added.

"When I visited Taiwan, many times young people there offered assistance when I got lost, or needed to locate a public bathroom," he said.

Once, a young man working in a coffee shop in Taipei accompanied him several blocks to make sure he could find the subway station. "He recognized my mainland accent. A flicker beamed in his eyes," Shu recalled. "During the walk, he asked me many questions about the mainland, such as the social media apps, online payment and shared bikes."

Marilyn Librers, former mayor and current city council member of Morgan Hill, California, said the US needs to respect the stance of China regarding its handling of the Taiwan question. "It is critical and the core interest of the Chinese people."

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Sanad, the global aerospace engineering and leasing solutions leader wholly owned by Abu Dhabis sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company PJSC (Mubadala), solidified its partnership with Asiana Airlines, the second largest airline in South Korea, through a five-year contract extension.

Valued at $145 million, the agreement emphasises Sanad's global industry leadership and commitment to providing elite maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for V2500 engines.

The agreement with Asiana Airlines was announced at the renowned MRO Americas event in Chicago, which is globally recognized as the leading MRO event in the aerospace industry, attracting over 16,000 industry professionals.

Under this new agreement, Sanad will service Asiana Airlines' V2500 engine fleet, leveraging its state-of-the-art facilities in Abu Dhabi. With a fleet exceeding 80 aircraft, Asiana Airlines operates an extensive array of domestic and international passenger and cargo services, covering a broad network spanning over 80 global destinations.

The partnership, which was initiated in 2018, strengthens Sanad's position as the sole MRO provider for Asiana Airlines in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.

This agreement solidifies Sanad's reputation as a global leading independent MRO service provider and extends the existing partnership with Asiana Airlines for another five years.

The V2500 engine, produced by International Aero Engines, has been a cornerstone in the aviation sector since 1989, powering a significant fleet of over 7,600 Airbus A320 and A321ceo aircraft worldwide. These engines are renowned for their reliability, efficiency, and performance, serving around 150 operators in 80 countries.

Sanad Managing Director and Group CEO Mansoor Janahi said: "Our unique standing as the sole V2500 full overhaul MRO centre in the Middle East has been pivotal in supporting V2500 customers worldwide since 2012. With over 250 inductions in the past 5 years, we demonstrate our profound expertise in the aviation MRO sector."

"This collaboration reaffirms our unwavering commitment to excellence within the aerospace industry, positioning Abu Dhabi as an innovative and leading hub for aviation solutions and solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for cutting-edge aviation services to top global airline," he stated.

General Manager (MRO) Baha Salama said the renewal of its partnership with tghe Korean airline reflects its dedication and commitment as well as extending its collaboration for another five years.

"Our relentless drive for excellence is delivering innovative and technical solutions, aligning with Abu Dhabis vision of supporting the global aviation sector with top-tier talent, technology, and expertise, which further solidifies its position as a global aviation hub. We are excited to continue our collaboration with Asiana Airlines and contribute to their sustained operational success," he noted.

Hoon Bae, Principal General Manager Purchasing of Asiana Airlines, said: "We have selected Sanad as our V2500 MRO service provider for another five years because we are convinced it is qualified to satisfy our requirement to support our A320 and A321ceo fleet."

"We are committed to providing the best customer service possible with Sanads strong support," he added.

Sanad's extensive experience spans over 35 years in aviation MRO, during which it has serviced over 600 V2500 engines since 2012. The company's diverse client base encompasses more than 30 airlines and 10 strategic partners from across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Asia.-TradeArabia News Service
Madhya Pradesh cabinet minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has slammed former Chief Minister Kamal Nath's son and Congress candidate from Chhindwara parliamentary seat Nakul Nath alleging that the latter is trying to buy 'loktantra' through 'note-tantra'. The minister remarked while speaking to ANI on Thursday and also requested the Election Commission of India (ECI) to inspect Nath's house. "Since the last three days, liquor has been distributed in some places, and we complained about it. Rs 4.94 lakhs cash was recovered from Congress leader Girish Sahu and the list of names on whom he took money was also recovered. There were three more Congress workers with him who ran away. Police are searching for them," he said. "I think they (Congress) are trying to buy 'loktantra' through 'note-tantra'. Nakul Nath is absolutely scared of the BJP. I think he (Nath) clearly sees his defeat that is why he took the support of note-tantra, distributing utensils and liquors in some places," the minister said. "A few people belonging to the Ahir community met me and said that they were offered Mangal Bhawan worth Rs 15 Lakh that the Congress leader said would be built for them. In this way, Nakul Nath is trying to buy 'loktantra' through 'note-tantra'. We will request the ECI to conduct an inspection of his house since we have got information that there are bundles of currency at his residence which he is using to bribe voters," he further added. The minister also said that he would demand the ECI to declare Chhindwara Lok Sabha a sensitive parliamentary seat and ensure regular checking of their (Nath) vehicles. "The way Congress and Nakul Nath are using money in this election, we will demand the election commission to declare the entire Chhindwara Lok Sabha a sensitive parliamentary seat and check their vehicles regularly. Because a lot of liquor, utensils and cash are being distributed. This is murder of democracy and I believe it should not be done," Vijayvargiya added. Chhindwara will go to poll in the first phase on April 19 with five other parliamentary seats in the state. BJP candidate Vivek Bunty Sahu is contesting against Congress' Nakul Nath from the seat. Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh will be conducted in four phases. The first phase of polling would be held on April 19, followed by April 26, May 7 and May 13. (ANI)
Karnataka Home Minister and Congress leader Dr G Parameshwara on Friday said that the Constitution provides the opportunity to practice any faith people want and it does not allow laws such as the Uniform Civil Code to be brought in a democratic country. "Our Constitution provides an opportunity to practice any faith you want to. You have also allowed those people to stay in India. They are born, brought up, and dying here and you try to meddle with their social life, and societal commitments. Do you want to call them second-set grade citizens in this country? The Constitution does not provide for such laws to be brought in and why do you want to send them to Pakistan? If they are against the law of the land, punish them," the Congress leader told ANI. Coming down heavily on the ruling government, Parameshwara said that either the BJP does not think of India as a democratic country or they don't want a democracy. "BJP leadership thinks that this is not a democracy or they don't want a democracy. That is why now we as Congressmen keep saying that democracy is in danger, protect the democracy," he said. When asked about whether the Agniveer scheme, is an option to reduce unemployment in the country, the Karnataka Minister said that there's a ceiling in the Army, Navy, and Air Force regarding the limited recruitment, so first the government should fill those vacancies. "How will you do that? You already have a ceiling in the Army, Navy and Air Force that you can recruit only these many people. There are 30 lakh sanctioned vacant places in GoI. Why don't you fill them? What stops you from filling those vacancies? Instead of Agniveer, already sanctioned vacancies are there in govt, fill them up and give them employment. There are people who are well qualified. My appeal to PM Modi is to fill these vacancies so that at least youngsters will get employment," he said. The Agniveer Scheme was announced in June 2022 for recruitment in the armed forces. The scheme is meant only for recruiting soldiers and not officers in the forces. The soldiers recruited under this Agneepath scheme are known as Agniveers. Under the scheme, the three services are recruiting youths between the age bracket of 17-and-half years and 21 years for four years with a provision to retain 25 per cent of them for 15 more years. For 2022, the upper age limit was extended to 23 years. Karnataka, which has 28 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in two phases on April 26 and May 7. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress and JD-S fought together against the BJP and the combine was decimated. The BJP had won a record 25 seats; Congress and JD-S won just one seat each. The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will be held in seven phases starting on April 19. The counting of votes on June 4. (ANI)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday said that it has arrested the perpetrator and the architect behind the explosion at Rameshwaram cafe in Bengaluru. The two key absconders in the Rameswaram Cafe blast case, identified as Adbul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, were traced out to their hide out near Kolkata and were apprehended by the NIA team, officials said. Mussavir Hussain Shazib is the accused who placed the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe and Abdul Matheen Taha is the mastermind behind the planning, execution of blast and subsequent evasion from the clutches of law. On early morning hours on Friday, NIA said, its teams were successful in tracing the absconding accused near Kolkata, where they were hiding under false identities. "This pursuit, successfully accomplished by NIA was ably supported by energetic coordinated action and co-operation between NIA, Central Intelligence agencies and State Police agencies of West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala police," the NIA said in a statement. The arrests come days after the anti-terror agency in a bid to bolster its investigation into the case, widened its scope by delving into the social circles and past associations of the accused, including friends in school-time and college. As part of its investigation process, the anti-terror agency had also intensified its efforts in the case by summoning and scrutinizing some acquaintances, including college and school-time friends, of both absconding and arrested accused. NIA said that the individuals from various spheres of the suspects' lives were being called in for questioning to gather crucial evidence and information pertinent to the case. The move was part of the agency's strategy to piece together the puzzle surrounding the alleged activities of the accused. With a focus on tracing the suspects' connections and possible motives, the NIA said, it left no stone unturned in its pursuit of justice. The NIA had also requested "the cooperation of all in arrest of absconding accused persons." As part of investigation into Rameshwaram Cafe blast dated March 1 at ITPL Road in Bengaluru's Whitefield, Bengaluru, the NIA had identified the two key accused person who carried out the IED blast. The two accused are residents of Thirthahalli area in Karnataka's Shivamogga district. Further, as part of investigation one Muzammil Shareef, a resident of Khalsa in Chikkamagaluru, who extended logistics support to the main accused persons, was arrested on March 26 and was examined in police custody. As part of efforts to locate and arrest the absconding accused persons, the NIA had conducted searches on 18 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. Earlier on March 29, the NIA also declared rewards of Rs 10 lakh on each of the two key absconders. (ANI)
West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari asked the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take cognizance of the 'threat' given by the ruling Trinamool Congress MLA Hamidur Rehman to supporters of opposition parties in his constituency. In a post on X, Suvendu Adhikari said, "Chopra TMC MLA Hamidul Rehman is well known for the criminal cases filed against him. Here, he can be seen threatening the voters and the Opposition party workers. His dictat is clear, once the Election is over the central forces will move out and the only force which would remain is TMC, and the voters and the Opposition party workers will have to deal with them." "I would like to urge ECI to take cognisance of the blatant threat issued by Chopra TMC MLA Hamidul Rehman, who is trying to intimidate the voters," he further said on X. Earlier on Thursday, TMC MLA Hamidul Rehman triggered a row with his veiled threat to supporters of opposition parties in West Bengal. He said that if the votes aren't cast in his party's favour, they should not complain if anything were to happen to them once the central forces leave the district, after April 26. Addressing locals at an election rally at Chopra in North Dinajpur, Rehman said, "The supporters of the BJP, Congress and the CPI(M) are keenly awaiting the polling day in North Dinajpur. However, I wish to tell them that the central forces will only be around till April 26. Thereafter, you will fall back under our force (a veiled reference to the state police). I would urge the supporters of the Opposition parties not to waste their precious votes on the BJP, Congress and CPI(M) candidates. Do remember that the central forces will troop out of this district on April 26. Only our force will hold sway after that. They shouldn't go complaining then if something were to happen to them (after the polling ends)." Daring the BJP, Congress and the Left to list out their development works in the district, he said, "If the BJP, Congress or the CPI(M) carried out any development work here, even I will stand in their support. Otherwise, I would urge the voters not to waste their precious votes on their candidates." Polling for the Lok Sabha in Bengal will take place across all 7 phases, starting April 19. The counting of votes has been scheduled for June 4. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC won 34 seats in the state, while the BJP had to settle for just 2 seats. The CPI (M) won 2 seats, while the Congress bagged 4. However, the BJP came up with a much-improved showing in the 2019 polls, winning 18 seats against the TMC's 22. The Congress's tally dropped to just 2 seats, while the Left scored a blank. (ANI)
Former Finance Minister of Kerala and CPI-M candidate from Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha seat, Thomas Isaac took a jibe at the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government and said that in Kerala, "people want Modi to be out" and that the "graph was down" for the BJP in the state. While speaking to ANI, the CPI(M) candidate said, "In Kerala, people want Modi to be out. The choice is between Congress and CPM. BJP had around more than 20 per cent of the votes in the last parliament elections but the vote share came down sharply to 16 per cent in the assembly elections. I think the graph is down for the party." He further said that Prime Minister Modi's claim of winning in "double digits" from Kerala was the biggest joke and that if he were to win in double digits, it would be winning in "two zeros." "It includes a double-digit seat from Kerala (BJP's claim of 400 plus). Including Kerala is the biggest joke for the PM to come and make a claim. He should announce something like this in North India rather than come to Kerala and say, he will win two zeros (in Kerala)," said Isaac. Thomas Isaac further said that the Communist Party of India (Marxist) would win the polls by a huge margin and said, "In Kerala in 2004, not a single Congress candidate was selected for the parliament. It is unlikely that we win 18 seats this time but it is sure that we will win a big majority of seats in Kerala." When asked about Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's statement on CAA, the CPI-M candidate said, "CAA is a serious issue in Kerala, the Muslim community and democratic-minded people are concerned about it. This has been a very serious problem for Congress, they have not outrightly said that they will withdraw CAA once they come to power. But we have taken the position." Isaac also spoke about the controversial movie, the Kerala Story, "Inter-religious marriages will continue to take place in Kerala, inter-caste marriage was one of the key slogans of social movements in Kerala and it's misleading to call it 'Love-Jihad'. These are the slogans raised to create ill will between the social groups in Kerala." Earlier on Thursday, Anto Antony, Congress leader and United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate from Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha constituency expressed confidence in retaining his seat while claiming that there is no scope for Bharatiya Janata Party or its candidate Anil Antony in the upcoming elections. "There is no space for BJP here, the fight here is between LDF and UDF. BJP is only a small front, they did not get anything from Kerala. Anil Antony contesting as a candidate of BJP. People do not believe in BJP here. They are very secular They live a life of comradeship. That's why they do not believe in BJP. There is no scope for Anil Antony," Anto Antony told ANI on Thursday as he seeks a fourth term from the seat. Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha constituency, which is traditionally a UDF stronghold voted for Anto Antony thrice since 2009 Lok Sabha elections. While BJP has fielded Congress defector Anil K Antony against Anto Antony, the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) has fielded former minister and veteran leader Thomas Isaac from the seat. All 20 Lok Sabha constituencies in Kerala will go to the polls on April 26. During the 2019 general elections, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) won 19 of the 20 seats. Of these, 15 seats were taken by the Congress, while the rest were won by other UDF members. The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases starting April 19. Nearly 96.8 crore people are eligible to cast their votes in the upcoming polls at over 12 lakh polling stations. The counting of votes will take place on June 4. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday assured that the Centre is committed to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir adding that assembly elections will also be held soon. "The time is not far when assembly elections will be held in Jammu and Kashmir also. Jammu and Kashmir will get back its state status. You will be able to share your dreams with your MLAs, and your ministers," PM Modi said while addressing a public rally in Udhampur. The Prime Minister said that whatever he has done so far is only serves as a trailer of the work that he is yet to do in the region. He pointed out that now after decades, elections were taking place in Jammu and Kashmir without fear of terrorism and cross border firing. "Vikas bhi ho raha hai, vishvaas bhi badh raha hai" (there is progress and confidence), the Prime Minister said. The state of Jammu and Kashmir was reorganized into a union territory in October 2019. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act 2019 was passed in 2019, and Article 370 of the Constitution of India, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was abrogated. The central government had in August 2019 abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories (UTs), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The upcoming general election, said the Prime Minister is "not just to elect a member of Parliament but to form a strong government in the country. When the government is strong, it completes by challenging the challenges..." Underscoring the latest development witness in Jammu and Kashmir, PM Modi said, "Now schools are not burnt here, but schools are decorated. Now AIIMS, IITs and IIMs are being built here. Now modern tunnels, modern wide roads, and wonderful rail journeys are becoming the destiny of Jammu and Kashmir." "Be it Jammu or Kashmir, now tourists and devotees have started coming here in record numbers," PM Modi said. The Prime Minister said that in the last decade, Jammu and Kashmir have completely changed as roads, electricity, water, travel, and migration, all are available. "In the 10 years, we have tightened the noose around terrorists and corrupt people. Now in the coming five years, this area has to be taken to new heights of development. Within 10 years, Jammu and Kashmir has completely changed. Roads, electricity, water, travel, migration, all these are there. But the biggest thing is that the mind of Jammu and Kashmir has changed," he said. The PM said, "Trust me, I had told you to trust me and I will solve the problems plaguing Jammu and Kashmir for the last 60 years. I had guaranteed respect for the mothers and sisters here. I gave a guarantee that the poor would not have to worry about two meals a day. Today lakhs of families of Jammu and Kashmir have the guarantee of free ration for the next 5 years..." The BJP has fielded Union Minister Jitendra Singh from Udhampur who has been representing the constituency since 2014. Singh had defeated former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad from Udhampur in 2014. The Congress has fielded Choudhary Lal Singh from Udhampur. The Congress took Lal Singh back into its fold six years after he was forced to resign following his participation in a rally held in support of the Kathua rape accused, in which a child was raped. The Peoples Democratic Party, partner in the INDIA bloc, has extended their support to Lal Singh. Udhampur will vote in the first phase on April 19. The BJP had won three out of six seats in Jammu and Kashmir in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The National Conference won the remaining three seats. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be interacting with people of Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur and Rajasthan's Barmer on Friday. The Prime Minister will also be holding a road show in Rajasthan's Dausa Friday. "In this great festival of democracy, the echo of BJP is being heard all over the country. Today I will get the opportunity to receive the blessings of my family members of Jammu-Kashmir and Rajasthan," PM Modi said in a post on X. Sharing his itinerary, the Prime Minister said, "In the morning I will interact with people in Udhampur of Jammu-Kashmir and in the afternoon, in Barmer of Rajasthan. After this, I will get the opportunity to be among the people in a road show at Dausa." The Prime Minister will be campaigning for Union Minister Jitendra Singh who has been representing Udhampur since 2014. Singh had defeated former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad from Udhampur in 2014. The Congress has fielded Choudhary Lal Singh from Udhampur. The Congress took Lal Singh back within its fold six years after he was forced to resign following his participation in a rally held in support of the Kathua rape accused, in which a child was raped. The Peoples Democratic Party, partner in the INDIA bloc, has extended their support to Lal Singh. Udhampur will vote in the first phase on April 19. The BJP had won three out of six seats in Jammu and Kashmir in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The National Conference won the remaining three seats. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Rajasthan, the second day after he addressed a public meeting in Rajasthan's Karauli on Thursday. In Barmer, the BJP has fielded sitting MP Kailash Choudhary for the Lok Sabha polls against Congress' Umaidaram Beniwal. In Dausa, a constituency reserved for the Scheduled Tribe, the BJP has fielded Kanhaiya Lal Meena from Dausa against Congress's Murari Lal Meena. BJP's Jaskaur Meena won the 2019 Lok Sabha polls from Dausa. Notably, Rajasthan sends 25 MPs to the Lok Sabha. The polling will be held in two phases on April 19 and 26. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. The BJP had won all 25 seats in the state in 2014. In 2019, the BJP-led alliance won all 25 seats, with the BJP winning 24. (ANI)
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attended the 'Bhoomi Puja' ceremony of Sardar Patel Medical College and Research Center run by the Ahmedabad Diamond Association Medical Trust in the state capital. In a post on X, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel wrote, "Got an opportunity to attend the Bhumipujan ceremony of Sardar Patel Medical College & Research Center in the presence of Union Minister of State Shri Devusinh Chauhan, fellow Ministers and MLAs at Kathwada, Ahmedabad. The Ahmedabad Diamond Association Medical Trust is doing good work in the field of health treatment and education." Praising the Narendra Modi government for its initiatives in the field of health, the Chief Minister further wrote, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under the good governance of BJP, medical infrastructure has been improved across the country. A lot of work has been done in the last one decade under the leadership of Modi, which has not been done in the last seven decades." "From yoga to Ayushman cards, many aspects of health have become available to the general public. The efforts of the government have also been well supported by social organisations, due to which there has been a double speed in the works of public welfare," the post further reads. Gujarat will vote for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in a single phase on May 7 across all the 26 parliamentary constituencies in the state. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. (ANI)
Home Minister Amit Shah, who was in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad on Friday to address a poll rally urged voters to make BJP victorious on all 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Notably, Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of Lok Sabha constituencies in the country and plays a key role in the formation of government at the Centre. The Home Minister also lauded the people of the state and attributed BJP's two victories in Lok Sabha polls to UP as the state offered 73 seats in 2014 and 65 seats in 2019 respectively. "In 2014 and 2019, the biggest reason for PM Modi becoming the PM was Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh gave 73 seats in 2014 and 65 seats in 2019 and hence PM Modi became the PM with a full majority. We have to make him PM for third term, 'is baar na 73 chalengi na 65 chalengi, is baar 80 ki 80 seat Modi ki jholi me jayengi'," said Amit Shah. "In our Gujarat, it's been said a child's future can be seen in the baby swing, so as the first election is going to be held in western UP, what you do will be followed by the rest of the UP. I would appeal to all of you to come out of your homes and cast your vote on the sign of Louts," added Shah. Further speaking about his government's achievements, Shah said, "In last 10 years PM Modi has brought the country's economy from 11th position to 5th position, now you make him PM for the third time, he will make the country's economy 3rd largest in the world; it's a Modi guarantee." The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases starting April 19. While, Moradabad Lok Sabha constituency will undergo polls on April 19 as part of Phase 1. The counting of votes will take place on June 4. In the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) won 303 seats, while the Indian National Congress (INC) managed to get only 52 seats. (ANI)
CM Kejriwal, who has not yet resigned from his post was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in connection with the excise policy case.

In the visuals, party workers were seen protesting and raising slogans like 'Aam Aadmi Party Zindabad', and 'Arvind Kejriwal Zindabad'.

Protesters also carried posters showing Arvind Kejriwal's picture, which were captioned 'jail ka jawab vote se'.

Earlier, on April 10, a Delhi court dismissed the plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking direction to increase the number of legal meetings with his lawyers from two to five times a week.

Through the plea, Kejriwal stated that as he is facing multiple FIRs in various states, a lot of legal work takes place and hence the number of meetings should be increased.

Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain appearing for respondent authorities opposed the application stating that the applicant is seeking legal meetings five times a week and is clearly against the Jail Manual.

According to the manual, "Only one legal meeting is allowed in a week, and in special circumstances, two meetings may be allowed. This applicant is already getting two legal meetings."

"If someone chooses to run the government from jail you cannot be treated exceptionally," the lawyers said.

The trial court on April 1, sent Arvind Kejriwal to judicial custody till April 15. The ED alleged that the Aam Adami Party (AAP) is the major beneficiary of the proceeds of crime generated in the alleged liquor scam. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party national president JP Nadda has said that while Madhya Pradesh was earlier considered among the 'BIMARU' states, it has made rapid progress under the BJP government for the last 20 years. Notably, BIMARU is an acronym used for poor states in India. Literally translating to 'sick', it included Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. He also affirmed that BJP is not against caste census, but accused the Opposition of sowing divisions in the society using the issue. Addressing a public meeting in Chhindwara on Friday, Nadda said, "We have seen two forms of Madhya Pradesh...there was a time when it was considered a 'BIMARU' state. Today, I am happy that this BIMARU state has become a progressive state under the 20-year rule of the BJP and is growing rapidly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left no stone unturned in developing the state and has taken steps to take the state forward." Heaping praise on Prime Minister Modi, he further said that the definition of politics has changed in the last 10 years. "PM Modi changed the definition, culture and method of politics. 10 years ago, politics happened based on caste, religion, region, upper-lower caste, north-south, this side or that side of river. For 70 years, Congress made brothers fight against each other. But, now PM Modi has changed the definition of politics and now politics of 'Vikasvaad' is taking place," he said. Slamming the INDIA bloc over their promise of caste census, the former Minister said that even the BJP is not against the idea but the intention of Opposition is to create division in the society. "Today, the INDI alliance is very frustrated. They have demanded a caste census in the country. Even the BJP is not against caste census, but the intention of the (Opposition) is to divide people on the lines of caste. Modi ji has said that we move ahead with 'GYAN' -- gareeb, yuva (youth), annadata (farmer) and naari (women). If they progress, India will progress," Nadda further said. The BJP President made a stark comparison between India of before and after 2014 and said corruption and terror attacks were common under the 10-year UPA rule. "What was this country before 2014? Terror attacks happened any day, rampant corruption happened on a daily basis. Policies were made inside air-conditioned rooms, which had no connection with the ground. Development was stopped, farmers used to commit suicide and youth was left struggling," Nadda said. "And we also saw 10 years of PM Modi. These 10 years were of development, of cultural revival. We saw farmers and women getting empowered. We saw villages progressing and in these 10 years, we saw India moving ahead as a strong nation," he added. Lok Sabha elections for the 29 seats in Madhya Pradesh are scheduled to be held in the first four phases of the total seven phases dated April 19, April 26, May 7, and May 13. The counting will be done on June 4. In 2019, the BJP won 28 seats in the state and Congress could only win one seat. (ANI)
Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi hit out at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, alleging that his constituency, Wayanad, has not at all benefited from his leadership. "Rahul Gandhi has failed, is just one part of the story. The other MPs have also failed by non-participation with the administration, with a lack of connection and availability for the people. Wayanad has not benefited at all from Rahul Gandhi's leadership," the BJP leader said. "They (Congress) are only playing on people's religious sentiments. They keep calling themselves secular, but they keep doing everything that is non-secular. They try to appease people of certain religions and divide people based on religion," she added. The BJP has fielded Kerala State President K Surendran as a National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate against incumbent MP Rahul Gandhi and CPI's Annie Raja. While the CPI and the Congress are partners in the opposition INDIA bloc, the two parties are fierce contenders in Kerala, with both parties pitting their strongest candidates against each other. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Rahul Gandhi won from Wayanad with a huge margin of over 4.31 lakh votes; the highest margin in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls in Kerala. He secured a 64.94 per cent vote share, defeating LDF candidate PP Suneer. The NDA had fielded BDJ(S) leader Tushar Vellapally who secured just around 78,000 votes which accounted for a mere 7.25 per cent. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) won 19 out of 20 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. While the Congress won 15 seats, its allies Indian Union Muslim League won two seats, the Revolutionary Socialist Party won one and the Kerala Congress (M) won one seat. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) won one seat in Alappuzha. Voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in the South Indian state across all 20 seats is scheduled for April 26, while the counting of votes will take place on June 4. (ANI)
BJP candidate for Bengaluru South, Tejasvi Surya, pitched for a third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising corruption-free governance and zero tolerance for terror. At a recent community meeting in Panduranga Nagar, JP Nagar in Karnataka's Bengaluru, Surya reflected on the difference in governance, citing a remark by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi about the inefficacy in fund distribution, where only 15 paise of every rupee reached the intended recipients due to corruption. He highlighted the current government's use of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring that funds are now fully and transparently reaching beneficiaries. Rs 34 lakh crore using DBT led to Rs 2.7 lakh crore of savings for taxpayers. Highlighting the government's firm stance on national security, Surya emphasised the zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, including successful surgical strikes on terror outfits. Listing the achievements of the central government, Surya said, "In the last 10 years, 26 crore people have come out of poverty, 12 crore toilets have been constructed and 10 crore free cooking gas connections have been provided. 50 per cent of houses have received tap water for the first time. 14,000 houses have been built for the poor in Bengaluru." Elaborating on the legacy issues that were addressed by the Modi government, Surya pointed out that, "Article 370 was abrogated in Jammu and Kashmir, rules of Citizenship Amendment Act notified, fulfilling the civilizational promise of Bharat. The Bhavya Ram Mandir, which was waiting for 500 years, was built in Ayodhya." Underscoring the significant infrastructure developments in Bengaluru, Surya mentioned that projects worth Rs 1.3 lakh crore have been sanctioned for Bengaluru in the last 5 years. "148 km Bengaluru Suburban Railway project was approved after a 40-year wait, with an outlay of Rs 15,767 crore, Satellite Town Ring Road of 280 km at Rs 15,000 crore is being developed to ease congestion by 30 per cent, out of which Modi Ji inaugurated a stretch of 80 km length recently. Further, 73.9 km of new Namma Metro lines have been sanctioned in 5 years, including Phase 2A, 2B Silk Board to Airport Line and Purple line stretches at Rs 15,318 crore," he said. Surya noted that the long-standing demand for a US Consulate in Bengaluru was fulfilled and its approval was secured during Prime Minister Modi's recent visit to America. He also spoke on the initiatives undertaken by his office during the COVID-19 pandemic with the apartment residents. "More than 4,000 beds were made available to critical patients within 100 hours of exposing the bed booking scam. Over 3,000 lives have been saved by setting up the largest oxygen concentrator bank in the country. Four defunct hospitals were revamped and the medical infrastructure was enhanced by providing 350 additional ICU beds. Additionally, in Bengaluru South, over 27.3 lakh free vaccines have been provided to citizens." he said. With the election campaign gaining momentum, Surya expressed his optimism about the public's support for Prime Minister Modi's continued leadership, confident of a strong showing for NDA candidates across Karnataka. Bommanahalli MLA M Satish Reddy and other leaders were present at the meeting. Karnataka, which has 28 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in two phases on April 26 and May 7. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress and JD(S) fought together against the BJP. The BJP had won a record 25 seats; Congress and JD(S) won just one seat each. The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will be held in seven phases starting on April 19. The counting of votes on June 4. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai on Friday said that Union Minister Smriti Irani is losing her mental balance with repeated attacks on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, adding that she needs to consult a good doctor. "I just want to say that Smriti Irani's level of discourse is going down day by day. She is losing her mental balance that's why we are seeing such remarks. For Rahul Gandhi, Amethi and Wayanad are both important. She needs to consult a good doctor. She is a cabinet minister, PM Modi should get her treated at a good hospital," Ajai Rai told ANI. The remarks came after Smriti Irani said that the Gandhi family was nowhere to be seen in Amethi when the coronavirus pandemic hit the country. "You have seen Congress' politics in this area. You all have seen Congress disappear. No member of Gandhi's family was seen in Amethi. However, I was travelling door to door in the villages. I am not asking for your support based on caste but as a conscientious citizen of Amethi," she said. While the BJP has announced that Irani will seek re-election from Amethi, the Congress is yet to declare its candidate for the seat. Rahul Gandhi lost to Irani in the 2019 general elections. Meanwhile, the Congress Central Election Committee will hold a meeting tomorrow evening at the party headquarters in Delhi to discuss the candidates for Lok Sabha elections in Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab. The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats in the country will be held in seven phases starting April 19. Nearly 97 crore voters are eligible to cast votes in the 2024 general elections. The counting of votes has been scheduled for June 4. The most populous state, which sends the most members to the Lower House of Parliament, at 80, will poll across all seven phases. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday hit out at the Congress, accusing them of doing nothing for the tribals when they were in power for 55-60 years. CM Yadav remarked while addressing a public gathering in Ukwa village, Baihar assembly constituency in Balaghat district. He arrived here to campaign in support of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Bharti Pardhi. "Unfortunately I have to say that the Congress government was in power for 55-60 years, but they neither made any tribal chief minister in Madhya Pradesh nor the President or the Prime Minister of the country. If anyone has this sin and stigma, it is the Congress. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made tribal sister Droupadi Murmu, the President of the country," the CM said. He also said, "A Congress leader insulted the tribals and said that the tribals can be made but their body colour is black. You insult them, neither give them any position nor give respect, this is the character of Congressmen." The chief minister further continued slamming the Congress party saying that they consider women as objects of luxury and their language puts women to shame. "Now the festival of Navratri is going on, we worship our mothers and sisters and we worship Shakti. We have faith and feelings in them. We always pay our respects to our mothers and sisters by bowing down our heads. This is the culture of the BJP. On the contrary, Congress people consider mothers and sisters as objects of luxury. Their language puts mothers and sisters to shame and lowers their respect," he added. Balaghat will go to poll in the first phase on April 19 with five other parliamentary seats in the state. Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh will be conducted in four phases. The first phase of polling will be held on April 19, followed by April 26, May 7 and May 13. (ANI)
With the painful memories of her teenaged daughter being taken hostage by masked Hamas gunmen still fresh, amid the deafening gunfire and the trail of death and destruction all around on October 7, last year, the mother of 19-year-old Naama Levy sought to draw the world''s attention to her distress, pleading that the global community moves mountains to get her home safe at the earliest. Speaking to ANI, Ayelet Levy Shachar, the mother of the 19-year-old, who continues to be in the captivity of Hamas terrorists, said her daughter is being held near the Gaza Strip, adding that in a video clip shared by the terror group, Naama was purportedly seen being "dragged by her hair". "My name is Doctor Ayelet Levy Shachar. I''m the mother of Nama Levi. She is a 19-year-old teenager, who was among the many civilians held hostage and kidnapped subsequently by Hamas terrorists in the immediate aftermath of the attacks of October 7. She was abducted in southern Israel, near the Gaza Strip. She was staying there at the time till she was taken. We saw a video clip of her being abducted that morning...it was one of the first such clips to be released by Hamas. In the clip, she was seen being dragged by her hair. She was walking barefoot, her pyjamas soaked in blood. She had sustained injuries in her leg and was handcuffed," the mother recalled. "She may still be injured in captivity, but we know that she is alive and on her feet. It''s been over six months now that she''s being held by these terrorists. My message to the world would be: just spare some thought for this bright, young girl. She could be your daughter, your friend, or anyone. They brought harm to a girl, who believes in peace and only doing good in this world. Just keep her in your prayers and help us draw the world''s attention to her plight. The global community needs to come forward and help us bring her home," she added. Another distressed kin, Marcello, whose son-in-law was also taken hostage by Hamas, said he doesn''t have any word of the latter''s fate or whereabouts. He earnestly called on his homeland to bring the ongoing war with Hamas to an end at the earliest and ensure the safe release of all the hostages. "My son-in-law, his daughter and her beloved were taken on October 7. Till today, we don''t have a clue on their whereabouts or fates. Are there any signs of life? None. The last 188 days (since they were abducted) have been extremely stressful and nightmarish for us. My son-in-law has a chronic disease and we don''t know if he is getting his medications. We don''t even know what state he is in now. We can only hope and pray that they will be back here with us soon. He has four daughters, the last of whom hasn''t even seen him yet," Marcello told ANI. "I am asking anyone, everyone, to help us bring these 133 people--who are still being held in Gaza, home. After 188 days (of the abductions and the Israel-Hamas war), I believe that the time has come to put an end to the hostilities once and for all and ensure the safe release of all the hostages. They have homes and families. That''s what I hope will happen now," he added. Meanwhile, Hamas said it was unable to identify and track down 40 Israeli hostages needed for the first phase of a ceasefire deal, according to an Israeli official and a source familiar with the discussions, raising fears that more hostages may be dead than are publicly known, the New York Times reported. A senior Israeli official said the claim by Hamas that they were unable to identify the 40 hostages has been relayed to his homeland, the NYT stated in its report, adding that a top Hamas official said the terror group informed the mediators, currently involved in negotiations for a ceasefire, of the same. The Israeli official said his Hamas counterpart requested anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the ongoing negotiations, the report added. The assertion raised fears that more hostages might be dead than previously believed and came as talks between Hamas and Israel stalled amid disagreements over the permanency of a cease-fire, the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza and other issues, the NYT reported. International negotiators have proposed an initial six-week ceasefire during which Hamas would release a first group of 40 hostages--including women, elderly, unwell hostages and five female Israeli soldiers--in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons as well as other demands. Further, according to the New York Times report, Israeli officials believe that about 130 hostages are still in Gaza, and Israeli intelligence officers have determined that at least 30 of them have died in captivity. It was not immediately clear if Israel would now demand that young men and soldiers be included among the first 40 captives, the report stated, adding that those hostages had been expected to have to wait for a later phase of the deal. The development came days after the Israeli military said it had recovered the mortal remains of an Israeli hostage who, like 240 others, was abducted during the October 7 Hamas attacks. The Israeli government and Hamas briefly ceased hostilities in Gaza in November to allow for the release of around 100 hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, offering a measure of respite from the military operation. (ANI)
Amid speculations of Iran's retaliation to the Israeli strike on its embassy in Syria, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken spoke to his Turkish, Chinese and Saudi counterparts in the last 24 hours, making clear that escalation in the Middle East is not in anyone's interest, Al Jazeera reported citing the US State Department. At the daily news briefing, US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller said Washington continues to be concerned about the risk of escalation in the region, specifically after threats made by Iran towards Israel. British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, too, said he had spoken to his Iranian counterpart and made it clear that "Iran must not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict." "Today I made clear to Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian that Iran must not draw the Middle East into a wider conflict. I am deeply concerned about the potential for miscalculation leading to further violence. Iran should instead work to de-escalate and prevent further attacks," the British Foreign Minister posted from his X handle. Vowing to strictly respond to any attack by Iran, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant dialled US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and discussed preparations for the "possibility of a direct attack from Iran", Al Jazeera reported. "The security cooperation between Israel and the USA is powerful and unquestionable," Gallant posted on X, echoing the words of Biden on Wednesday that the US' "commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad". Earlier, US President Joe Biden stressed his country's 'ironclad' support for Israel after Iran vowed to retaliate in the wake of the deadly air strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria. "As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu, our commitment to Israel's security against these threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. Let me say it again: ironclad. We're going to do all we can to protect Israel's security," Biden said at a White House press conference alongside visiting Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio on Wednesday. According to Times of Israel, Biden stated that in their earlier Oval Office meeting, the two of them "addressed the Iranian threat, as they threaten to launch a significant attack on Israel". Iran blamed Israel for the April 1 strike on its consulate in Damascus, which killed senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The Iranian government has since vowed a response. (ANI)
Shehrbano Qureshi, the daughter of jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, said on Thursday her father's hopes of justice was boosted after the six Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges wrote a letter on alleged interference of intelligence agencies in judicial matters, The News International reported. Shehrbano, speaking to journalists outside Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail after meeting her father on Thursday, said she also met Qureshi last Monday and he was in good health. "My father is very hopeful and seeing justice being done in the country," the PTI leader said, adding that the bravery showed by six judges of the IHC boosted the courage of her father -- who alongside the party founder Imran Khan is facing 10-year jail term in the cypher case. The News International reported that she expressed her thoughts that they want to see a strong and stable Pakistan despite going through a tough time. On the case against the former foreign minister, Shehrbano said appeals against Qureshi's sentences in the cipher case would be heard on April 16. The politician expressed hope that the prosecution would not find more excuses in the next hearings. She claimed that the prosecution has no concrete arguments left in the cipher case. In January, a special court judge, Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain, sentenced Khan and Qureshi to 10 years, each, in the cipher case. The case pertains to allegations that the former prime minister had made public the contents of a secret cable sent by the country's ambassador in Washington to the government in Islamabad, The News International reported. On March 25, six judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had demanded Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Qazi Faez Isa convene the Judicial Convention to consider the matter of interference of intelligence operatives in the judicial functions or intimidation of judges in a manner that undermined the independence of the judiciary. The IHC judges, including Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, Justice Tariq Mahmood Jehangiri, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan and Justice Saman Rifat Imtiaz, wrote a letter to the chief justice, who is also the chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), Geo News reported. After the letter went viral and considering the gravity of allegations it mentioned, the chief justice called a meeting the same day with the IHC chief justice and all the judges after Iftar at 8pm at his residence during which the concerns of all the judges were heard individually. The following day, on March 27, the CJP met with the attorney-general and the law minister, and thereafter, the chief justice and the senior puisne judge met with the president of Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the senior most member of the Pakistan Bar Council in Islamabad. A full-court meeting of all the SC judges, called under the chairmanship of the chief justice of Pakistan at 4pm the same day, deliberated on the issues raised in the letter. Geo News reported that the full-court developed a consensus by majority that the chief justice may hold a meeting with the prime minister of and raise the issue with him. CJP Isa then met with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif in the Supreme Court where he clearly stated that interference by the executive in the affairs and judicial workings of judges will not be tolerated. During the meeting, the constitution of an inquiry commission was proposed under the Pakistan Commissions of Inquiry Act, 2017. The prime minister fully endorsed the views expressed by the CJP and senior puisne judge and assured them that he will be taking other appropriate measures to ensure an independent judiciary. After further consultations among the CJP and other judges as well as the federal government's actions in this regard, the announcement of a one-man inquiry commission comprising former CJP Tassaduq Hussain Jillani was made, who recused himself from the opportunity, citing various constitutional reasons. (ANI)
Madhura Naik, a Jewish woman of Indian origin in Israel, on Thursday shared her family's bone-chilling encounter with Hamas terrorists on October 7, during which they killed three of her kin in cold blood, with their children watching on helplessly. Madhura, a television actor by profession, shared that her cousin, sister and her sister's husband were murdered in front of their children by armed Hamas terrorists, at a time when southern Israel was in chaos in the wake of the deadly attacks of October 7. "What happened on October 7 was a terrible tragedy, not just for my family but for all Israelis. Six months to the attacks, as many as 133 hostages are still living in the hope of freedom. However, sadly, I can't say the same for my cousin, sister and her husband as they were murdered (by Hamas terrorists) in cold blood in front of their children. Every Israeli knows about or has seen the video (of the killings) that went viral. I want every Indian to see that video clip as well. It is horrific and heartbreaking at the same time. The clip features my sister's six-year-old daughter, who was trying to save her three-year-old sibling," Madhura told ANI. Recalling the attack that went down inside a vehicle, she added, "The only thing that she (her sister's daughter) kept repeating to the police (who came to her rescue) was, 'Are you Israeli people?' Amid the gunfire and indiscriminate shooting all around, the children were hiding in the back of the car. Imagine a six-year-old screaming like that. Keeping their presence of mind even in the face of adversity is something the Israeli children know like no other. Call it the perks of growing up in a conflict zone. I don't think that any child deserves a life like this. And unfortunately, for some of us, our loved ones don't come out unscathed from such situations," she added. Reena Pushkarna, a restauranter, shared a poignant story of how Israeli soldiers mourned the loss of a comrade in action over 'Indian cuisine'. The story was of a young soldier, who cherished Indian cuisine and used to live next door to her restaurant in Tel Aviv. He lost his life on the first day of the war in Kibbutz Be'eri. She shared that a group of soldiers looked her up at her eatery, expressing a desire to treat the locals to the cherished Indian dish of their fallen colleague during the period of his mourning, or Shiva. "Well, Israel is slowly limping back to normal, but the cloud of war is still hanging over our heads. To be honest, the people here are barely going through the motions. You won't see the glint of happiness in their eyes as every family has been affected in some way or the other (by these attacks). Be it a father, a son, a grandfather, or his grandchild, everyone lost someone they loved. With the threat of war in the north, many people have become refugees in their own homeland," she told ANI. "There was this young man, who loved Indian cuisine and lived next door to one of my restaurants in Tel Aviv. He lost his life on the first day of the war Kibbutz Be'eri. A few days after his death, a group of soldiers called us up to share how much he loved Indian food, especially Tandoori Tel Aviv. They offered to treat the people here to his favourite food during the period of his mourning, which is locally called Shiva. The name 'Shiva', as you all know, is very much associated with India. So, nine days of mourning a loved one here is called Shiva," she added. Moved by their request, Pushkarna offered to bring his favourite food from her restaurant. "They said they would like to treat the people here to Indian food. I asked them their address so that I could deliver it myself. To this, they said they pooled money to serve the cherished dish of their fallen comrade (at the restaurant). I said, his favourite restaurant would visit him to serve his cherished food. These are small gestures that make lasting memories. None of us are in politics, or for that matter, in a war. You may have noticed two Muslim families leaving my restaurant some time back," she said. "Everyone around here shares a bond regardless of faith. It's the terrorists who divide us and force us to fight for our soil and defend ourselves. This, in a nutshell, is the story. Everything in my place revolves around food. And for us, it's Indian cuisine all the way," she added. Also invoking the global popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she said, "Modi-ji is a superstar who has made every Indian across the globe feel pride in his or her roots," she added. (ANI)
US President Joe Biden on Thursday hosted the Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the first-ever trilateral summit between the three countries and said that the US commitments to the defence of Japan and the Philippines remain "ironclad," CNN reported. The meeting, which came amid separate territorial disputes involving Japan, the Philippines and China, saw the US President commit to standing in protection of both countries. "When we stand as one, we're able to forge a better future for all," Biden said in the East Room of the White House Thursday. Japan and the Philippines both have separate territorial disputes with China, in the former's case the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea and in the latter's areas of the South China Sea. CNN reported that Philippines-China tensions have focused on Second Thomas Shoal, which sits about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the coast of the Philippine island of Palawan. In the 1990s, the Philippines grounded an aging World War II-era navy transport ship on the shoal, to help enforce its claim to the area. The ship is now mostly a rusted wreckage and is manned by Filipino marines stationed on rotation. Meanwhile, China claims the shoal, which is in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, as its sovereign territory, as it does much of the South China Sea, in defiance of an international arbitration ruling. Recent clashes have occurred when Philippine attempts to resupply the forces on the ship have been met by China Coast Guard ships firing water cannons at the Philippine resupply boats, resulting in injuries to Filipino sailors and damage to the vessels. Referencing the Filipino-Chinese tensions, Biden said on Thursday that "any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty." The 1951 mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines - the oldest such US pact in the Asia-Pacific--stipulates both sides would help defend each other if either were attacked by a third party. Thursday's meeting marks the latest attempt by the administration to grapple with that sort of Chinese aggression, and a senior administration official said ahead of the meeting that the White House is very concerned by China's actions in the South China Sea, CNN reported. "What you'll see is a clear demonstration of support and resolve from both President Biden and Prime Minister Kishida that we stand shoulder to shoulder with Marcos ready to support and work with the Philippines at every turn," one official said ahead of Thursday's meeting. (ANI)
On his maiden state visit to the US, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed a joint meeting of Congress saying that the lawmakers in the US are suffering from "self-doubt" at a time when US leadership is most needed, The Hill reported on Friday. "You believed that freedom is the oxygen of humanity. The world needs the United States to continue playing this pivotal role in the affairs of nations," Kishida said. "And yet, as we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be," he added. It was the first speech by a foreign leader presided over by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who is overseeing a conference in chaos, with a small group of GOP lawmakers frequently blocking efforts to legislate based on their own criticisms, The Hill reported. Kishida's government has drawn a direct line between supporting Ukraine in its defensive war against Russia as essential to deterring China from launching aggression against Taiwan and triggering a war in East Asia. "As I often say, Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow," he said. At this line, while Harris and other members stood and applauded, Johnson remained seated. Earlier in his speech, Kishida highlighted that China's military actions present an unprecedented challenge to the peace and stability of the international community. "China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan, but to the peace and stability of the international community at large." Kishida's plea spoke to a rare agreement on both sides of the aisle in Congress recognising China as the priority threat to the present, US-led global order. The Hill reported that Kishida's appeal was aimed directly at Republicans who view US engagement on the world stage as a trade-off to focusing on problems at home. (ANI)
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will visit India next week, with plans to focus on reviewing progress under the Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) with his counterpart Ajit Doval, people familiar with the development told ANI. President Biden's top national security aide will be in New Delhi on April 17 and is scheduled to have meetings on April 18. The top-level engagement will focus on the India-US relationship, "compare notes on the Indo-Pacific" and also talk about "next steps in technology cooperation," a senior White House official told reporters in Washington. Sullivan was to travel to India earlier this year in February but because of the global crisis in Ukraine and West Asia, the annual review meeting on iCET was rescheduled. In May 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden launched iCET to facilitate outcome-oriented cooperation in new and emerging technologies. iCET is co-led by the NSCS in India and the US National Security Council (NSC). "President (Joe Biden), one of the things that he's proudest of is his efforts to build a stronger relationship between the United States and India. And I do believe, both in the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean, and on key issues like technology, the United States and India are working more closely together than ever before...," a White House official said during a press briefing on Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's official visit to US. The official acknowledged that "there perhaps had been some ambivalence or some uncertainty" between the two countries in the past. "I see very little of that now. I see leaders on both sides who are all in on the promise and prospects of the other, recognize the potential of this relationship that is deeply supported by an activist diaspora community here, and technology and other firms who understand the potential of India." "I would say, in many respects, engagement with India is some of the most- the most desired kinds of engagements on the global stage, and we've seen this with a variety of key players," the official said. The White House official said that the US-India relationship is "trending substantially in a positive direction and that our level of engagement across every possible vector -- security, intelligence, technology, people-to-people -- has excelled." During a recent press briefing in the White House, Sullivan had said that the partnership between India and the United States has reached a new height with collaboration on technology and other fields. "The partnership between the US and India -- a country in BRICS -- has gone to new heights with an engagement across technology and security and so many other dimensions," Sullivan said. In February this year, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, while speaking at the second edition of INDUS-X Summit in New Delhi, highlighted robust defence partnership between India and the US, rooted in mutual respect and strategic convergence. Aramane mentioned Initiatives on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), launched jointly by PM Modi and President Joe Biden in the year 2022. He talked about the Defence Innovation Bridge, a significant outcome of iCET, serving as a catalyst for collaboration between US and Indian startups in the defence sector. (ANI)
On the eve of Baisakhi, the Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF)-led Sikh delegation extended wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and offered prayers at Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara for a successful continuation of his leadership in future. Earlier in the day, the organisation's official X handle tweeted about the Vaisakhi Darshan and said, "It's a privilege for IMF to organise Vaisakhi Darshan for Sikh Jatha at Gurdwara Sri Kartarpur Sahib. Today, the Jatha embarked on their journey from Amritsar via the Kartarpur Sahib International Corridor to offer special prayers for PM Narendra Modi Ji and to celebrate Vaisakhi at this sacred site tomorrow." Before leaving for the historic gurudwara, Sant Baba Kashmir Singh Bhuri Wale of Sri Amritsar Sampardaye Dera Kar Sewa Sant Baba Bhuri Wale performed an 'Ardas' for successful visit of 'Jatha' and presented 'Siropa' to the Convener of the IMF and Rajya Sabha MP, Satnam Singh Sandhu, prominent Sikh religious leaders and other delegation members. The procession in the form of Nagar Kirtan led by Panj Pyaras (five beloved of Guru) comprising IMF delegation members, prominent Sikh religious leaders, Sikh women and farmers left for Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib amid the brilliant spectacle of Gatka performances. The IMF-led Sikh delegation reached the historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara where Satnam Singh Sandhu prayed for Sarbat Da Bhala (Blessings for all), Chardi Kala and extended their wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the eve of Baisakhi and prayed for his sound health and successful continuation of his strong leadership for nation's progress in future as well. MP along with Sikh leaders also presented Rumala Sahib at the historic gurudwara. Later, the delegation members led by Satnam Sandhu visited fields in Kartarpur where Guru Nanak Dev Ji did farming during the last stages of his life and brought 'sacred soil' from the holiest of Sikh shrine. The message of Naam Japo, Kirat Karo and Vand Chakko (keep One God in your heart, work hard, live an honest life with high moral and spiritual values and share and consume food, possessions, wealth and talent) was given by the delegation. The delegation also planted saplings and performed Sewa at Langar (community kitchen) and Joda Ghar. "The prayers of every Sikh community member for the past 70 years were answered finally in 2019, when under the Modi government, the Kartarpur corridor was opened and for the first time in the history of free India, the Sikh pilgrims got the opportunity to visit the final resting place of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara. Owing to the strong emotional bond he shares with the Sikh community; Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not only opened the corridor to the Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur in Pakistan but also facilitated easy and hassle-free access to the historic Sikh shrine," said a member of the Jatha. Expressing their heartfelt gratitude to the PM for opening the Kartarpur Corridor and facilitating easy access for Sikh pilgrims, another member said, "After India attained freedom, during the partition of the country, Gurdwara Sri Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur went to Pakistan. Sikh community members could not visit the historic Gurdwara...But this long-standing demand for over 70 years was fulfilled with the relentless efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since the opening of Kartarpur Corridor in 2019, a total of 2.35 lakh pilgrims visited the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur in Pakistan." "In a lust for grabbing power, Congress overlooked the sentiments of the Sikh Community; at the time of partition, it was a historic blunder by Congress that let Kartarpur Sahib go into the hands of Pakistan. Later also, Congress made no efforts for the opening of Kartarpur Sahib during its 60 years in power," added one of the members of IMF-led Sikh delegation. Bhupinder Singh Assandh, President of the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC), said, "The anti-Sikh riots of 1984 were conducted under Congress government rule but in stark contrast, the Sikh community, who had sacrificed their lives for the country, gets the due respect and recognition under the Modi government in the past 10 years. Opening of Kartarpur Corridor was the historic step that PM Modi that fulfilled the aspirations of the Sikh community. In the entire history of free India, no previous government has ever made efforts to open doors to the historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan. PM Modi has not only opened the Kartarpur Corridor but also granted Visa-free access to the most sacred place of Sikhs. In a short time, lakhs of Sikh pilgrims have visited the place now." HSGMC President added, "We want to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We pray to the almighty for the successful continuation of his strong leadership in future as well." While conveying appreciation for PM Modi, Rajya Sabha MP and IMF Convenor Satnam Singh Sandhu said, "Sri Kartarpur Sahib is not just a religious site for the Sikhs but a deep emotion for the entire community. Today, as we step on this sacred ground where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent his final years, it is solely because of the unwavering efforts of Prime Minister Modi...PM Modi has also held deep affection and respect for the Sikh Gurus and Sikh Community, way before becoming the Prime Minister of India. Another significant holy site of the Sikhs, Lakhpat Gurdwara Sahib in Kutch, Gujarat, had been destroyed due to a series of earthquakes. The then Gujarat CM Narendra Modi took the initiative to get the Gurdwara renovated, considering its significance to the Sikh community. Thereafter, Lakhpat Gurdwara Sahib earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. PM Modi has portrayed us what a leader should be like, and what he has done for the Sikh community cannot be matched and thanked enough." Mahendra Singh Virk, who came from Firozpur especially to visit Kartapur Sahib on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, expressed his gratitude to the PM and said that due to his efforts, the prayers of the Sikh community have been fulfilled after 70 years. He said, "During the last seven decades, India had many prime ministers, including a Sikh PM, but no attention was given by them on this matter. However, PM Modi understood the sentiments of the Sikhs and fulfilled their prayers by opening the Kartarpur Corridor, which has always promoted brotherhood between the two countries." The Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib holds immense significance for Sikhs all around the world. (ANI)
Taiwan slammed Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for calling it an "integral part of China" and said that the "Chinese Communist Party regime has never governed Taiwan." Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issued a statement rebuking Lavrov's claims. The ministry reiterated that neither Taiwan nor China is subordinate to the other and that the "Chinese Communist Party regime has never governed Taiwan," as per Taiwan News. The ministry characterised Taiwan as a "modern democratic country" that upholds human rights and the rule of law. It added, "No distorted narrative disparaging Taiwan's sovereign status" can alter the globally recognised status quo in the Taiwan Strait. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's said on Tuesday (April 9) that Taiwan is an integral part of China, triggering a swift response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), which condemned the remarks as "false claims," during a joint news conference with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, Taiwan News reported. Taiwan is an "integral part of China" and "an internal affair of the People's Republic of China," Lavrov said during the press briefing. According to Taiwan News, the ministry said "collusion" between Moscow and Beijing does not contribute to the stability of the Taiwan Strait and region. It said the "authoritarian convergence" of the two countries inflicts "serious damage" to international peace, stability, and the rules-based world order. "Taiwan is on the strategic front line, safeguarding the values of democracy and freedom in the Indo-Pacific region," said MOFA. Regarding Taiwan's stance on defending its national sovereignty, the ministry said it remains "staunch and unchanged." MOFA further emphasised that Taiwan remains dedicated to enhancing collaboration with similar-minded nations to "jointly resist communist China's rhetorical and military intimidation and curb authoritarian expansionism, It closed by saying this commitment will secure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and advance international economic security and prosperity. Meanwhile, in an official post on X, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry expressed gratitude towards US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for their reaffirmation of stability in the Taiwan Strait following the first-ever trilateral summit in Washington, DC on Thursday. https://twitter.com/MOFA_Taiwan/status/1778368935945269734 "Thank you, @POTUS &@Kishida230 for reaffirming #TaiwanStrait stability after this momentous meeting! We're delighted to see #US & #Japan , 2 stalwart partners in the #IndoPacific, acknowledging #Taiwan's pivotal role in propelling regional prosperity & global security," MOFA said in response to Biden's post. "Together, Prime Minister Kishida and I have strengthened this Alliance and expanded our work. We have raised our shared ambitions. And now, the U.S.-Japan Alliance is a beacon to the entire world. There's no limit to what our countries and our people can do together," Biden said on X, emphasising the strengthened alliance. (ANI) .
The Ministry of External Affairs on Friday condemned the deaths of Indian students in the US and said that the cause of their deaths was more than one, adding that the investigations of two recent cases are underway, with Indian authorities taking up the issue with the concerned authorities in the US. The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal while addressing the weekly press briefing on Friday, highlighted the unfortunate deaths of Indian students in the US. "Two of them passed away, while the deaths of both national students are under investigation. We have reached out to the consulates and they have extended all possible help. Hopefully, we will come to know more about the reasons...," Jaiswal said. Mentioning the data, Randhir Jaiswal said that some 10 Indian students have passed away since January. "Since January, there have been some 10 Indian students who have passed away. One was a case of homicide which was registered against a vagrant person. This was the most unfortunate of Vivek Saini. Then, there was a case in which the victim as shot at," he said. "These two cases are being investigated from the point of law and order. We are pushing very hard. Our consulates and our mission in the US have strengthened the student outreach, so that they can convey how they should take care of themselves and...what all the help consulates and embassy can provide," he added. Moreover, Jaiswal said that there are multiple reasons behind these deaths. "Several deaths have happened, not because of one reason, they are multicausal in nature," Jaiswal highlighted. He further said that there are also some community issues apart from law and order concerns. "There are several other issues beyond justice and law and order matters that also need to be looked into...there are also some community issues, there are cases of which have happened on account of suicide and other mental illness related issues," he said. "That's why we want to reach out to the student community and provide them comfort," he said, adding that they also have a large Indian student community in the US. Earlier this week, Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a native of Hyderabad, who had been missing since March, was found dead in the US state of Ohio, the Consulate General of India in New York confirmed. It said that all possible assistance is being extended to the bereaved family to transport his mortal remains to India. Moreover, the MEA spokesperson also highlighted US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's visit to India next week. He added that US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell will be visiting India. "Their visit will be announced as and when we learn about it. We will inform about what the agenda is, what exactly we have to offer and as far as India-US talks with these two distinguished visitors," he said. Moreover, US NSA Jake Sullivan will be visiting with plans to focus on reviewing progress under the Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) with his counterpart Ajit Doval, people familiar with the development told ANI earlier today. President Biden's top national security aide will be in New Delhi on April 17 and is scheduled to have meetings on April 18. The top-level engagement will focus on the India-US relationship, "compare notes on the Indo-Pacific" and also talk about "next steps in technology cooperation," a senior White House official told reporters in Washington. (ANI)
The Iran-backed Lebanese aimed militia, Hezbollah, on Friday, fired a barrage of missiles towards northern Israel, The Times of Israel reported, adding that the projectiles were intercepted by the country's defence systems, while some impacted open areas or fell short in Lebanon. The IDF said some 40 rockets were fired from Lebanon towards northern Israel. There were no immediate reports of injuries in the attack claimed by Hezbollah. After the attack, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said its air defences shot down two explosive-laden drones launched by Hezbollah in northern Israel. Sirens were sounded even as shrapnel fell following the interception of the projectiles directed towards northern Israel. The attack came amid fears of retaliation by Tehran following the Israeli air strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria that killed two of its top generals, The Times of Israel reported. Hezbollah-led forces have been attacking Israeli communities and military posts along the border on a near-daily basis since October 8, a day after its ally, Palestinian terror group Hamas, launched its October 7 massacre, killing 1,200 people across southern Israel and abducting 253 people. Hezbollah said its attacks were in support of Gaza amid the war with Hamas, The Times of Israel reported. Hezbollah said in a statement that the rocket attack targeted an IDF base in Ein Zeitim and came in retaliation for the earlier "Zionist aggression." Earlier, IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a press statement that the Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi concluded an assessment with US CENTCOM chief Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla on the threat of an attack by Iran on Israel. "We held a joint assessment of the situation, to ensure that our coordination is tight," Hagari said. He said there are still no changes in instructions to civilians amid the heightened alert of a potential Iranian attack. "If there are any changes, we will update [the public] immediately," Hagari added, stressing that civilians should still remain vigilant, as Israel's air defences are "among the best in the world, but not hermetic." "We have been at war for the past six months, and we have dealt with all the existing threats. Our defense is ready, and knows how to handle each threat individually. We are also ready for attack, with a variety of capabilities, to protect the citizens of Israel," he said. According to the Times of Israel, Hagari accused Iran of "escalating the situation in the Middle East" amid the war in Gaza, adding, "We will know how to operate wherever needed." To a question on the IDF's threat assessments of Iran, Hagari highlighted that Tehran has been acting against Israel since the start of the war, citing attacks by its proxies in Yemen, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon. "We've been acting against them [all] since the start of the war," he says. "Iran is escalating, pushing for regional escalation. We'll know how to deal with the Iranian threat. We are well-prepared and will know how to respond to anything," he said. Aircraft carrier USS Dwight Eisenhower was despatched north through the Red Sea towards Israel in a show of deterrence from the Biden administration. The carrier would be able to intercept missiles and drones fired by Iran. (ANI)
The Nepal cabinet on Friday recommended President Ram Chandra Paudel to prorogue the ongoing winter session of the lower House past Sunday midnight. The decision by the cabinet comes ahead of the Nepal Investment Summit, which is set to be held at the end of this month. Dozens of laws are required to be amended if the House is to be prorogued in the winter session. "The cabinet decided to recommend the President to prorogue the winter session of the lower House past Sunday midnight. After the meeting on Sunday (April 19) commences, the session will be prorogued," Rekha Sharma, the country's minister for Communication, confirmed. The decision to prorogue the ongoing session was taken in the meeting of the Council of Ministers amid continuous interruption by the Opposition Nepali Congress, which demanded the resignation of Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane. The Nepali Congress, along with two other parties, also raised the demand for a parliamentary probe committee to investigate Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Lamichhane over his alleged involvement in a cooperative scam. Lamichhane denied the allegation while also turning down the demand for a probe committee. Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli as well as his successor Pushpa Kamal Dahal came out in his support while seconding his decision not to institute a probe panel. The Nepali Congress has been building pressure on the government to fulfil their demands, resulting in the prorogation of the lower House with vital bills, including those relating to the full-fledged implementation of federalism, which has been waiting for long. Two months into commencement, the House has only endorsed three Bills in the winter session. Nepal is set to host the third edition of the Investment Summit over two days-- on April 28 and 29--in Kathmandu. The summit is aimed at attracting bulk foreign direct investments (FDIs) into several infrastructure projects. The Investment Board of Nepal has planned to showcase a total of 125 projects, as recommended by consultants and various government agencies. According to the IBN, the government has finalised investments worth Rs301.18 billion in four big projects during the summit. (ANI)
Every two years, Hoosiers across the state vote for members of Indiana's General Assembly, the legislative body of the state. Each election, all 100 of the seats in the Indiana House of Representatives are up for a vote, and half the 50 members of the Indiana Senate.

For this May 7 primary, St. Joseph County voters have contested primary choices for two state senate seats and one state house seat.

The Tribune is partnering with the League of Women Voters of the South Bend Area and the American Democracy Project of Indiana University South Bend to publish candidates' answers to questions on the issues. The League, with local help from the ADP, operates Vote411.org, a website with information about the candidates and their positions on key issues.

The Tribune has agreed to run candidate answers unedited, meaning any spelling, typographical or grammatical errors are the candidates' own. If there is no photo of a candidate, it's because the candidate did not provide one. The Tribune is publishing only some of the questions from contested races. Additional questions and answers, including from candidates who have no opponent in the primary, are available at Vote411.org.

Senate District 8

In Senate District 8, incumbent Republican faces a primary challenge from both Spencer England and Joe Layne. Democrat Leon P. Smith is unopposed in the primary and will face the winner in the fall. None of those four candidates had responded to the Vote411 questions by The Tribune's print deadline.

Senate District 10

Incumbent state Senator David Niezgodski faces a Democratic primary challenge from Tim Swager. No Republican has filed to run for the seat.

David Niezgodski, Democrat and Indiana state senator

David Niezgodski

Occupation: State senator

Education: LaSalle High, plumbing apprenticeship

email: dniezgodski@gmail.com

Campaign phone: 574-532-6691

Website: niezgodskiforsenate.com

Facebook: facebook.com/niezgodskiforsenate

Tim Swager, Democratic candidate for Indiana senate

Tim Swager

Occupation: St. Joseph County treasurer

Education: MBA, Notre Dame

email: tim@swagerforstatesenate.com

Campaign phone: 574-931-8474

Website: swagerforstatesenate.com

Facebook: facebook.com/TSwager1

What is the first bill you would champion in the 2025 legislative session? Why?

Niezgodski: I have a number of important bills that I intend to file if given the opportunity to serve residents in Senate District 10 for an additional term. One issue has become glaringly apparent. Indianas current statutes do not provide adequate protections to tenants from landlords who show little to no concern regarding the health and well-being of individuals/families who are simply looking for suitable housing in return for their hard-earned rent dollars. I would file a bill mandating that security deposits be held in a separate escrow account. If repairs or unsuitable conditions exist, tenants would also be able to place their rent payments into rent escrow until uncompliant landlords correct unsuitable conditions. Tenants who pay their rent on time deserve healthy and safe living conditions. Good and honest landlords would be unaffected.

Swager: As a newly sworn in state senator, my first bill would aim to keep illegal guns off our streets here in South Bend. That's why I'd introduce a bill to crack down on "Bad Apple" gun dealers. These dealers exploit legal loopholes, selling firearms to criminals and fueling violence in our communities. By imposing stricter regulations and oversight on these dealers, we can stem the flow of illegal guns and enhance public safety. This isn't about infringing on Second Amendment rights but about ensuring responsible sales and protecting lives. This proposal should appeal to both sides of the aisle, as it addresses both gun safety concerns and the need for effective law enforcement measures. I spent over 3 years on Capitol Hill advising on gun violence, abortion rights, and healthcare issues. I know we can get common sense solutions done.

What is your view of Indiana's current firearms laws? What, if anything, would you change?

Niezgodski: The 2nd amendment would not be harmed if Indiana were to enact legislation for expanded background checks. Legislation requiring even minimal training of firearms would still go much further than no requirement at all. Our current laws concerning firearms also make it difficult for our states law enforcement agencies to properly do their jobs of protecting Indiana Hoosiers. Law enforcement agencies throughout the state pleaded with legislators not to enact permitless carry in Indiana state code and my vote heeded law enforcements call. Utilizing a commonsense approach to the sales of firearms and safety in their use would go a long way towards lowering senseless home accidents and tragedies. Injury and death through gun violence and the tragic outcome it brings to families calls for greater action from the General Assembly.

Swager: We could do so much better. In South Bend, Indiana, we feel the devastating effects of our state's lax gun laws, including but certainly not limited to permitless carry and allowance of extended magazines. Permitless carry increases the likelihood of firearms falling into the wrong hands and heightens the risk of gun violence in our communities. Law enforcement's own opposition to these laws reflects the self defeating nature of these extreme policies. Making our streets more dangerous, instead of safer. I want to put my previous gun policy experience to work in the hopes of finding common ground and making our communities safer for everyone.

Does Indiana adequately protect our natural environment?

Niezgodski: Indiana should be doing more. Indianas wetlands regulations this last legislative session were subjected to greater harm. House Bill 1383 reduced wetlands protections by shifting some Class III wetlands  which are currently protected  down to Class II, which have many less safeguards. It became the first bill that arrived on the Governors desk, he signed it on February 12th. Session had scarcely passed the halfway mark. The importance of wetlands to Indianas water resources cannot be understated. We must enact stronger regulations to protect our vital resources not less stringent ones. Representative Maureen Bauers success in passing legislation calling for testing for the presence of PFAs in firefighters last year unveiled greater awareness that further oversite will also be required regarding these toxic chemicals.

Swager: Indiana faces significant environmental challenges, including reliance on coal power, agricultural runoff, and industrial emissions that pollute air and water quality and contribute to climate change. As your State Senator, I would lead the charge to a green economy. Through renewable energy and sustainable industries, we can reduce emissions and stimulate economic growth. Implementing robust environmental regulations and investing in green technologies are vital for a healthier, more resilient Indiana. Fighting climate change through a green economy will demonstrate that economic prosperity and environmental stewardship CAN coexist.

The tragic death of six children living in a house that had failed safety inspections before it burned has brought attention to the problem of safe, affordable housing in our state. For example, Indiana is one of only six states that dont allow rent to be held in escrow if safety standards arent met. Should the legislature enact a similar law or any other measures to improve housing conditions for Hoosier families?

Niezgodski: Indiana should allow tenants to escrow their rent, inducing action from negligent landlords. Rent could be paid into a trust account. Negligent landlords seeking mere profit would now have reason to make properties safe and habitable. Ill also file legislation requiring a landlord to repair/replace essential items within 48 hours after being notified by a tenant that the tenants rental unit is lacking essential services, including the ability for the tenant to bring an enforcement action for landlord noncompliance. I would also seek to add to these measures the contents of SB 243 which I co-authored this past session. This bill would bring further protections to tenants when landlords seek to sell a property. I would also seek co-authors on all these measures from both sides of the aisle because these issues have no political divide.

Swager: Indiana has some of the worst tenants rights laws in the nation. We've born the burden of that in South Bend with the tragic loss of the Smith Six and the ongoing battles at Cedar Glen Apartments. Rent escrow laws empower tenants, ensuring landlords promptly address maintenance issues. But we shouldn't stop there. Like many Hoosiers, I've spent my life renting and have often felt the short end of the stick from my landlord. That's why I would propose a Tenants Bill of Rights that codifies a tenants right to repairs, a habitable environment, and mandates lease transparency and fairness.

Indiana ranks poorly when it comes to maternal and infant health. What, if anything, should the legislature do about this problem?

Niezgodski: Reducing maternal and infant mortality should be one of Indianas most unambiguous priorities. Meaningful strides are taking place in Indiana but better outcomes for maternal and infant health will only take place when we decide to invest more resources with more urgency into our States overall Health. This session, I voted for a bill that requires a hospital that operates a maternity unit to ensure that a woman eligible for or receiving Medicaid assistance has the option of having a long-acting reversible subdermal contraceptive implanted after delivery and before the woman is discharged. I supported this bill, which was authored by Rep. Dr. Rita Fleming, who has delivered over 7000 babies, and Rep. Maureen Bauer, because this requirement will help postpartum women, especially women of color and people in high-risk situations.

Swager: We are fortunate to have so many champions of maternal and infant health in our community, however, Indiana still fares abysmally in this area. When elected, I will be a tireless advocate for public health. That includes expanding access to prenatal care, particularly through Medicaid and support for community health centers. Further, addressing racial disparities in birth outcomes requires targeted solutions like implicit bias training for healthcare providers and culturally competent maternal care services. By prioritizing these areas, Indiana can finally improve health outcomes for both mothers and babies.

House District 7

House District 7 Republican incumbent Jake Teshka faces a primary challenge from Timothy Jaycox. No Democrat has filed to run for the seat. Neither Teshka or Jaycox had responded to the Vote411 questions before The Tribune's print deadline.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Where do state House candidates stand on issues? Answers for voters
Battle Creek is seeking public feedback as it explores a proposal to upgrade and reimagine its fire stations.

The city will host six community conversations  one at each of its six fire stations  over the next two months to gain feedback and answer questions about the proposal.

The most significant changes center around the city's 100-plus-year-old fire stations  Station 2 on Washington Avenue and Station 3 on Cliff Street  which are "no longer suitable as modern fire station buildings," per the city.

"We cant really make them bigger to fit the modern fire vehicle," City Manager Rebecca Fleury explained Wednesday. "There are certain vehicles that the Battle Creek Fire Department has that cannot go at either one of those stations because of the way they were designed. They were designed for basically a horse and cart, not for 2024 fire vehicles."

The living quarters are also quite small and difficult to remodel in these aging structures, according to Fleury.

"Any engineering firm that goes in or any consultant we get to take a look at the fire department and their models of service delivery, were at the point where they do not recommend us putting any more dollars into (Station 2 and Station 3) because we wont get it back out," she said. "Its not a good use of taxpayer dollars at this particular time."

The city proposes building a new Station 2 near its current location and closing Station 3, moving that crew to join the crew at Station 1 on East Michigan Avenue. The city aims to keep the cost of the upgrades somewhere in the range of $20-25 million, according to Fleury.

Battle Creek Fire Department Station 2 on Washington Avenue on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

The city will share new images and cost estimates for each fire station at each of the meetings and ask for residents' opinions and feedback about these plans to improve the way the city's fire stations operate.

"The proposal that were working on right now is the culmination of several studies that have been done over the past 10 years," Fleury said. "Were at this point now where we feel like its time to address areas that we just havent kept up with from a maintenance perspective."

Public feedback is crucial during this process because these aging fire stations "have become an integral part of the neighborhoods in which they reside," according to Fleury.

"We want to work together with the neighborhoods that they reside in about what their next life looks like," Fleury said. "Just because it doesnt function as a modern fire station anymore, there still are, I think, many potential uses to support a neighborhood."

Presenting the information and answering questions during the community conversations will be Fleury, Fire Chief Bill Beaty and architect Cody Newman of Driven Design Studio, which is working with the city on this proposed series of projects.

The community conversations are set as follows:

Wednesday, April 17, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (seeking American Sign Language interpretation)Station 1, 195 E. Michigan Ave.AccessVision will record this conversation for later online and cable broadcast.

Saturday, April 27, 9 to 11 a.m.Station 2, 145 N. Washington Ave.

Wednesday, May 1, 9 to 11 a.m. (seeking Spanish interpretation)Station 3, 222 Cliff St.

Monday, May 6, 6 to 8 p.m. (seeking Spanish and Burmese interpretation)Station 4, 8 S. 20 th St.

Saturday, June 1, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.Station 5, 1170 W. Michigan Ave.

Monday, June 3, 6 to 8 p.m.Station 6, 2401 Capital Ave. SW

More information will be available soon on the city website, battlecreekmi.gov. Questions can be directed to the fire department at (269) 966-3519 or by emailing publicinput@battlecreekmi.gov.

Contact reporter Greyson Steele at gsteele@battlecreekenquirer.com

This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Feedback sought as Battle Creek upgrades, reimagines fire stations
Bradford stabbing: Man appears in court as mother of woman killed while pushing pram says heart is broken

The heartbroken mother of a woman stabbed to death in front of her young baby while walking through Bradford has described her devastation.

Monwara Begum, 60, has said her heart has been broken by the death of her 27-year-old daughter Kulsuma Akter, who had moved to the UK from Bangladesh.

Habibur Masum (West Yorkshire Police/PA) (PA Media)

It comes as Habibur Masum, 25, appeared in court for the first time after being charged with her murder. He was arrested on Wednesday in Aylesbury, after a four-day manhunt, with police confirming that he and Ms Akter were known to one another.

Dressed in a grey sweat shirt and flanked by three security guards, he spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, during the six-minute long hearing. He has since been remanded into custody to next appear on Friday at Bradford Crown Court.

Speaking to the MailOnline from her village near the town of Sylhet in Bangladesh, Ms Begum said: I am still in shock, my heart is broken, she was my youngest daughter and I adored her greatly.

She looked after me when my eldest daughter was married and she would get my medicine and do everything for me.

Labour MP Naz Shah lays flowers at the scene in Westgate, Bradford (Dave Higgens/PA Wire)

When she moved to the United Kingdom I was alone but Kulsuma would call me every day by video  the only day I didnt hear from her was the day she was attacked.

She added: All I want now is a trial and I want Kulsuma to get the justice in death that she didnt get when she was alive.

Ms Akters father lives and works in Saudi Arabia, and she is understood to have recently moved to Bradford after living in Oldham.

MailOnline also reports that Masums family have moved from their remote village in Bangladesh, fearing repercussions.

On Tuesday, her brother, Hossain, said the family was completely devastated by her death.

He said: We are heartbroken and completely devastated. We are not even able to speak and have been crying all the time since this happened.

We had to call our mother in Bangladesh to tell her the news. Can you imagine what this was like for us? I cant believe my sister is dead. Im sorry, I cant speak any more.

Emergency services were called at 3.20pm on Saturday after Ms Akter was stabbed multiple times in Westgate at the junction with Drewton Road. She was rushed to hospital but died of her injuries.

The baby is safe and was not harmed in the incident, police said.

Shopkeeper Geo Khan said he was sitting in his store when he heard screams from outside, and discovered Ms Akter on the ground.

Shopkeeper Geo Khan came to Ms Akters aid (Dave Higgens/PA Wire)

I came out and I tried to check the pulse. There was no pulse.

He said: Blood was all over on the floor and there were stab wounds in her neck.

Mr Khan said he was joined by the passing doctor who took over trying to help the woman, but agreed there was no pulse.

West Yorkshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct because officers had contact with Ms Akter before her death, a force spokesperson confirmed.

A 23-year-old man was also arrested in the Cheshire area on Monday on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail, West Yorkshire Police said.

Four other men were arrested in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, on suspicion of assisting an offender and drug offences. The men aged 23, 26, 28, and 29, from the West Midlands area, are currently in custody, the force added.
BRIGHTON  After 23 years running the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce, Pam McConeghy has announced her plan to retire as president and CEO. She'll retire from the chamber in August.

"I hate to leave it all. Its been such a passion," McConeghy, 70, told The Daily Wednesday.

She said she will continue to stay involved in the Brighton community and serve on several boards and committees, including the city's Downtown Development Authority, at least for now.

Taking her place at the chamber, Gavin Johnson, a former Brighton High School principal who retired earlier this year, will step into the position on July 29.

Pam McConeghy, who has announced her upcoming retirement after more than two decades running the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce, sits in her office, Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

"I am deeply humbled and extremely excited to be selected as the next Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO," Johnson said in a release. "Filling Pam's shoes will be a challenge, but I promise that I will pour my heart and soul into this position and look forward to serving the business and civic interests of the community that I love."

McConeghy said she'll stay involved with the chamber's foundation and continue to serve on boards and committees until terms end or she decides to move on. Beyond being a DDA member, she currently serves Explore Brighton Howell Area/Livingston County CVB, Work Skills, the Economic Development Council of Livingston County, the Livingston County Transportation Coalition, Housing Catalysts and Trinity Health's cabinet for the new hospital under construction.

She said she's retiring to get married in her "golden years" and spend time with her future husband. They reconnected at a high school reunion in the Chicago area. She said her fiance is retiring as a professor at Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska and will move to town.

Pam McConeghy, president and CEO of the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce, stands near the stage as Shiatown performs at the Yellowstone Country Music Festival at Mt. Brighton on July 22, 2023.

"I didn't want to leave Michigan, my family, my connections and my church, so he's moving here," she said.

Among her accomplishments, she is proud of helping local businesses get through rough times.

"I'm proud of pulling through the recession and then also pulling through COVID and not really missing a beat," she said. "It was a wonderful experience to help the businesses during COVID, to help them with getting their grants. We were all just fighting the battle, fighting the good fight," she said. "That just really strengthened my resolve."

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Some chamber accomplishments during her tenure have included the creation of the annual Smokin' Jazz and Barbecue Blues Festival and the Yellowstone Country Music Festival The chamber also moved into its location, at 218 E. Grand River Ave., which was originally the Mellus Hospital, in 2011.

Former Brighton mayor and former county commissioner Kate Lawrence, who is a chamber board member, said in the release McConeghy's "legacy will continue."

"Throughout Pam McConeghys tenure, she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Chambers mission and values, fostering a culture of innovation, integrity, servant leadership and excellence," Lawrence said. "Under her guidance, the Chamber achieved significant milestones, expanded its reach, and forged enduring partnerships, leaving an indelible mark on the industry."

 Contact reporter Jennifer Eberbach at jeberbach@livingstondaily.com.

This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Brighton Chamber president to retire in August
Cops have arrested a man they say killed his 40-year-old roommate and then cut the victim up and stuffed his decapitated head and other body parts in a freezer in his Brooklyn apartment, cops said Friday.

Sporting tattoos reading Sophia over his right eye and the Warner Bros.WB logo on his neck, Nicholas McGee playfully stuck his tongue out at reporters as he was escorted from the 67th Precinct in East Flatbush Friday.

Detectives extradited McGee from Virginia, where he was in jail for identity theft when the NYPD found victim Kawsheen Gelzers remains inside the taped up refrigerator in his Nostrand Ave. apartment near Farragut Road.

McGees longtime girlfriend Heather Stines, 45, was still living in the apartment and was arrested after the grisly Jan. 22 discovery.

Detectives charged McGee, also 45, with murder, robbery, concealment of a human corpse and tampering with physical evidence.

He was held without bail and faces a potential sentence of life behind bars, prosecutors said Friday.

Gelzer had been couch surfing at McGees apartment when the killing took place. Gelzer was a known drug dealer and registered sex offender convicted of sexually abusing a 12-year-old boy in 2004.

McGee may have killed Gelzer over an ongoing narcotics dispute, police said. Gelzer died from a blow to the head, cops said.

McGee stabbed Gelzer in the back as he slept in the apartment after a dispute over drugs, prosecutors said Friday. The two struggled, and McGee stabbed Gelzer multiple times and beat him with a hammer before taking drugs from the dying mans pocket.

Later, McGee used a small saw and a hammer to dismember the body before stashing it in the refrigerator and freezer, prosecutors said.

McGee has long struggled with drug addiction and had become estranged from his three daughters, seeing little of them since 2012, said Cheyanne McGee, 24, the middle child of the three.

She said Stines manipulated McGee with drugs and would pose as him in messages asking for money all while refusing to let him hold down a job.

I know the difference between when Im speaking with my father and when Im speaking with Heather, Cheyanne said.

Stines went as far as to say that McGee was dying of cancer in an appeal for more cash.

[Stines] is just an all-around liar. Everything she said was a lie.

McGees daughter believes that Stines is party responsible for the murder, and that she may have been sleeping with Gelzer.

Once I processed it I was really upset. I blame Heather. She was doing something. He found out this other man was involved, and he ended up just snapping and killing him.

Another of McGees daughters, who did not want to be named, also said Stines would pose as her father to ask for money.

She called Heather her evil step mother.

Officers called to the apartment found the body parts of a 6-foot tall, 200 pound man wrapped in black plastic bags in both Stines refrigerator and freezer, cops said.

Gelzers severed head was found in the refrigerator, according to court documents.

The refrigerator was taped up, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a recent news briefing. They were trying to hole up, I guess, the smell inside.

Stines was charged with concealment of a human corpse and ordered held without bail as she awaited trial.
California law bars non-residents from carrying a gun. Does that violate the Second Amendment?

Gun rights group the Firearms Policy Coalition is suing the state of California in federal court, arguing that a state law banning out-of-state residents from carrying guns in-state violates the Second Amendment.

State law generally prohibits individuals from carrying firearms either openly or concealed in public, and non-residents are not eligible for a license to carry a firearm in public. Indeed, Californias unconstitutionally restrictive scheme provides no path for non-residents to carry a firearm lawfully in public at all, the coalition argued in its complaint.

The lawsuit was filed Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California.

A lawsuit complaint represents one side of the story. The Bee reached out to the California Attorney Generals Office, which is charged with defending the law, for comment, but did not immediately hear back.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of three non-California residents  Christopher J. Hoffman of Pennsylvania, Chad Orrin of Idaho, and Jennifer Sensiba of New Mexico  who are licensed in their home states to carry firearms.

Both Hoffman and Orrin are former California residents, according to the complaint.

Individuals like (Hoffman, Orrin and Sensiba) do not lose protection of their rights under the First Amendments speech or religion clauses when they cross state lines. Nor do they lose their protections under the Fourth Amendments prohibition on unreasonable searches and seizures. They likewise do not surrender their Second Amendment protected rights when they travel outside their home state, the complaint reads.

While California offers concealed-carry licensing to residents, non-residents are ineligible. The law requires that an applicant live in the state for a two-year license or have a principle place of business or employment in the state if applying for a 90-day limited license.

As a result, California law provides no path for non-residents to obtain the license necessary to exercise their constitutionally protected right to bear arms in public for lawful purposes without running afoul of the states broad statutory scheme that works a total ban on carry generally, the complaint reads.
Dust storms have swept through a Florida neighborhood over the last few months, blanketing homes and roads and sickening some residents.

On windy days, residents say the dust blows from Rye Ranch, a 1,369-acre housing development under construction in the Manatee County town of Parrish. The new large-scale community built by Miami-based Lennar Homes sits across the street from existing homes in the Foxbrook neighborhood.

When the wind picks up, theres a cloud of dust that comes through this whole community, said Rob Nilsson, 51, who moved to Foxbrook two years ago. Its so thick that you cant even see through it. It looks like a dust storm in a movie. A big black cloud of dust.

In a Feb. 23 letter to at least one resident, Scott Edwards, vice president of land development for Lennar Homes, acknowledged that the dust conditions could be caused by construction activities and said the company has rules and regulations in place to manage the impact to neighbors.

Lennar takes great pride in our communities and always strives to do our best to be good neighbors to the surrounding areas, Edwards wrote.

Residents say they have asked for Lennar to cover the cost of cleanup and damage to their homes. Speaking with the Bradenton Herald, residents said they have been forced to remove dirt from their pools and power wash their homes.

How the dust storms could happen in Florida community

Foxbrook residents said dust from the Rye Ranch construction site is covering their homes. They also said the dust is making it hard to see while driving on County Road 675.

According to Edwards, the company uses water trucks to keep dust levels down. He said seed and mulch will also be installed as construction is completed.

The company official, however, stopped short of meeting residents demands to pay for any damage caused to their property.

Lennar will continue to take the necessary steps in order to maintain our site and follow the regulations that are in place, but will take no further action on any of the requests for compensation or maintenance on your home, Edwards said in his letter to a resident.

A spokesperson for Lennar Homes did not respond to the Bradenton Heralds request for comment.

Manatee County looking for solution

Foxbrook residents said dust from the Rye Ranch construction site is covering their homes. They also said the dust is making it hard to see while driving on County Road 675.

Residents have called on county officials to take action and hold the development company responsible for the impact the dust has had on their homes, safety and health.





No one at the county seems to want to hold them responsible for anything, said Marcos Alvarez, 39, who moved to Foxbrook more than three years ago. Thats our biggest frustration. There seems to be more protection for the company than for the residents and the county is supposed to be looking out for its residents.

Manatee County commissioners will explore several options later this month to reduce the dust in the neighborhood. They may require developers to make a plan to control the dust, shut down construction if winds are higher than 15 mph and avoid clearing more than 100 acres at a time.

Im on [the] peoples side, so Im looking for solutions, Commissioner James Satcher said. Now, weve had a historically dry winter, so this is not necessarily our average conditions, but were going to be assertive and do what we need to do to take care of this.

Poor air quality causes health concerns

Foxbrook residents said dust from the Rye Ranch construction site is covering their homes. They also said the dust is making it hard to see while driving on County Road 675.

One resident who spoke with the Bradenton Herald said the air pollution has triggered her asthma for the first time in many years.

I had an asthma attack before I went to bed, and I cant tell you the last time Ive had to use my inhaler, said Teresa Trudeau, 62, who moved to Foxbrook 15 years ago. I havent had any more today, but Ive been staying inside even though the dust has died down.

She says the dust is everywhere  on the oak leaves scattered across the driveway, on the pet paw prints tracked through the house and on the clocks, lights and wind chimes hung around the porch.

I struggle to keep up with our normal housework, and to have something like this thrown on top of me, I just cant do it. My husband cant because hes not home enough, said Trudeau, who is disabled and whose husband works long hours. Were struggling through a filthy house. I know thats not good health-wise, but we dont have an option right now.

The dust storms have angered and frustrated residents who feel trapped in their homes.

We built our house out there so that we could have a pool and a big yard for the kids to play in, said Alvarez, who lives with his wife and three children. The whole day, youre forced to stay inside, you cant do anything. Our kids wanted to go swimming the other day and you have to tell them, No, you cant go swimming, because theres a layer of dirt on the bottom of the pool.

Dust makes traffic more dangerous

Foxbrook residents said dust from the Rye Ranch construction site is covering their homes. They also said the dust is making it hard to see while driving on County Road 675.

Residents have also watched in disbelief as the air quality conditions make traffic navigation more dangerous. With lower visibility, drivers watch as other vehicles and construction trucks appear out of a thick orange fog on Rutland Road.

As youre driving along Rutland Road and that dust kicks up, its almost like youre driving through Mars, said Charlie Terenzio, 35, who moved to Foxbrook over a year ago. Theres a lot of dust and debris blowing across that main road, which makes it hard to see whos coming from the other direction.

When asked about the complaints from residents, Satcher said the county is working to fix the problem.

People shouldnt feel like theyre driving through the dadgum desert, Satcher said. Hopefully, developers can take some reasonable measures to address the issue and we plan to get them to do that.

Upcoming public discussion

The Manatee Board of County Commissioners is expected to discuss new development rules to prevent similar dust conditions during a public meeting on April 23. The meeting will be 9 a.m. at the Manatee County Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W. in Bradenton.
Clear Creek Amana High School's Henry Davidson is the Press-Citizen Student of the Week

Henry Davidson, a sophomore at Clear Creek Amana High School, is the Iowa City Press-Citizens latest Student of the Week.

Henry Davidson, a sophomore at Clear Creek Amana High School, is the Iowa City Press-Citizens latest Student of the Week.

Davidson secured 484 votes, or 41.87 % of the total vote, narrowly edging out Lone Tree senior Mia Bauwens, who secured 401 votes, or 34.69%.

Clear Creek Amana Principal Mark Moody told the Press-Citizen, "[Davidson] is extremely driven to be successful in the classroom, and his actions back up his words. As a sophomore, it is impressive to see him work hard to balance all his extracurricular activities with his high expectations in the classroom."

Davidson is involved in extracurricular activities like robotics, speech, swimming, band, and cross country. He also sets high expectations for himself as a student and works hard to succeed in the classroom, frequently meeting with teachers during student support hours before and after school.

This week's Student of the Week poll included two other nominees from Johnson County. Faculty at area high schools are asked to nominate students for outstanding academic achievements and community service.

This week's poll closed Thursday, April 11. A new Student of the Week poll will go live on Monday, April 15.

More: Johnson County supervisors set recommended minimum wage to $12.64 an hour

Here were this week's other nominees:

Mia Bauwens, Lone Tree High School

Mia Bauwens, a senior at Lone Tree High School, consistently demonstrated remarkable dedication, leadership, and commitment to academic and extracurricular activities during her four years of high school. Bauwens displays a commendable work ethic that sets a high standard for their peers; from participating in class discussions, completing assignments with diligence, or contributing to group projects, she consistently strives for excellence, exhibiting exceptional leadership qualities both inside and outside the classroom. Bauwens serves as a leader in the National Honor Society (NHS), where she heads the youth tutoring program.

More: The University of Iowa's journalism school is turning 100 this year. How it will celebrate:

Olivia Vande Berg, Iowa City High School

Olivia Vande Berg is a junior at Iowa City High. She has left a lasting mark on the mock trial scene with her remarkable performance, propelling her team to a prestigious state runner-up finish. Notably, she was recognized as an All-State attorney, showcasing her exceptional legal acumen.

Do you want your student to be considered as Student of the Week? Ask your principal to send nominees to studentoftheweek@press-citizen.com.

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Clear Creek Amana's Henry davidson is the P-C's Student of the Week
MUNCIE, Ind.  The call for a forensic audit of two offices in Delaware County government is drawing interest from the Indiana State Board of Accounts.

County council member Ryan Webb, who called for such an audit in February, said last week that he planned to meet with Ed Wheele, director of special investigations for the SBOA, on April 9.

On April 1, Wheele had sent an email to Webb, requesting a meeting concerning the operations of the Delaware County Commissioners' office and the county auditor's office.

More: Call for audit shows fractured local GOP going into primary

"Ryan, I appreciate you sending this information. Would you be available to meet and discuss these allegations?," Wheele said in an email to Webb.

The two men planned to discuss Webb's allegations of "questionable uses of taxpayer dollars" by commissioners and what he called "chaos" and "failures" in the office of Auditor Ed Carroll.

Ryan Webb

Carroll responded to Webb's allegations last week after The Star Press published a story about Webb's request.

"We have no issue with an audit," Carroll said in a prepared statement. "In fact, we welcome the ... (State Board of Accounts) to come in to perform an audit.

"We currently perform seven audits annually which includes all the departments within Delaware County government and includes, but not limited to, Grants, Contracts, revenues and all expenditure claims."

Carroll said that Webb's call for an audit of his office is a "political ploy" and "a waste of time and a big waste of taxpayers' money. Again, audits are done in every office, including the auditors office every year."

But forensic audits differ from other audits in that those performing the inspection of the records would be seeking evidence that potentially could be used in court. They are not the same as a regular or annual audits.

Carroll, who also serves as the chairman of the Delaware County Republican Party, and Webb have been at odds before.

The GOP has split in the county between its traditional establishment and a more populist group, typified by Webb, who aggressively questions department heads about spending during county council meetings and has been openly critical of fellow Republicans.

In the past year, the auditor's office has lost a number of experienced employees, and Webb asserts that it has caused problems in the office's operations. In Indiana, the county auditor's office examines and settles all financial accounts and demands chargeable against the county.

More: Ryan Webb, who caused backlash by identifying as 'woman of color,' will seek re-election

Former Chief Deputy Auditor Charlie Richmond, who said he was leaving his position as of Thursday last week and relocating to Texas, said the office has a lot of new people who are learning but that they have been working hard. Richmond had served as chief deputy for the previous county auditor, Steve Craycraft. Carroll said he plans to pay Richmond to continue to help advise him in the operation of the auditor's office from Texas.

Some county employees did not have federal tax deductions taken out of their pay during 2023. Sheriff Tony Skinner said that affected a few of the people in his department.

Carroll said those employees, who make a small salary with the county, failed to properly fill out forms connected with the deductions. If they make money from a second job the lack of withholding can cause them to not have enough money withheld to cover their tax. But that is not the fault of the auditor.

Webb has also questioned the remodeling of the auditor's office in the Delaware County Building, which he said the county council never approved spending of money for a remodel.

"That includes upgrades such as new paint, carpet, a new conference room with a large flat-screen TV," Webb said in an email to Carroll.

Carrol responded, "The changes in the Auditor's office were necessary and important as the flooring and carpet in the office had worn down to the point that it created a safety hazard for the employees and the general public. The Auditor's office receives a lot of traffic from the general public inquiring about property, property taxes and tax sales throughout the year and maintaining a safe environment is important to protect the county."

The auditor also told Webb the office is "upgrading its office software and reports to comply with new GAAP accounting requirements as well as help with accessibility issues to records. A training location was needed in the office for new and current employees to receive remote training on the new software that is being required because of additional requirements for audits."

He also said the funds were paid from the unappropriated tax sale amounts received by the county and had been sitting in the account for three years.

More: Ballot remains the same after Election Board hears challenges to candidate paperwork.

"Traditionally, auditors in Delaware County and other counties have used this money for improvements to their office for tax sale purposes," he said.

Carrol said the expense of remodeling was about $40,000, and added that "the project could have had a total cost in excess of $100,000, but the Auditor's office worked with the County's building staff and Community Corrections to reduce the labor costs."

James King, Delaware County Commissioner, sits at the bench of the court room during the monthly meeting of the commissioners.

Regarding the county commissioners office, Webb contends James King, president of the commissioners, along with Delaware County economic developer Brad Bookout, and Bookout's associate Bill Walters, traveled to Las Vegas for a guys' trip" and then falsely labeled the excursion "as an economic development expenditure."

Webb wrote that the officials stayed for multiple days in order to go to the SHOT Show," which Webb called "the biggest gun show in the country."

Webb is seeking re-election for one of the three at-large seats on county council.

David Penticuff is a reporter with The Star Press. He can be contacted @spnews@muncie.gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Investigator takes interest in allegations from county councilman
Mark Weindorf spent much of his Pennsylvania State Police career watching the rise and fall of certain narcotics as they flowed into the Erie region.

And a good bit of time fighting to stem the flow.

Weindorf, 52, who retired Friday after 31 years with the state police, spent the early part of his career battling the scourge of crack cocaine while assigned as a trooper to the FBI's Erie Area Gang Law Enforcement task force.

"It was destroying people," he said of the drug.

As a full-time member of the state police Bureau of Drug Law Enforcement and later as a vice officer for state police Troop E in Lawrence Park Township, Weindorf witnessed the rise in heroin and was on the front lines in the fight to stamp out an explosion of methamphetamine labs that littered the Erie region for a time.

The illicit drug of choice for sellers and users would move on to oxycontin, crystal methamphetamine and opioids including the deadly fentanyl, now blamed in the vast majority of Erie County's drug deaths in recent years, as Weindorf earned promotions and served as a station commander, section leader and finally crime section supervisor for Troop E.

Although a little less than half of Weindorf's state career was focused solely on drug investigations, he said that work was worthwhile and very fulfilling to him.

"Because if you look at all of the crimes out there, so many of them boil down to where there is some type of drug usage or there is a drug component to most crimes we had out there, thefts, burglaries, assaults, even homicides," he said.

Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Mark Weindorf, 52, crime section supervisor for state police Troop E in Lawrence Park Township, ended his 31-year state police career with his retirement on Friday.

Following dad's footsteps and making a difference

Weindorf said he knew as a little boy that he wanted to be a policeman like his father. His dad, Joe Weindorf, was a longtime Erie police officer and detective who later served as magisterial district judge in Erie and as public safety director for the city and Erie County.

Weindorf joined the state police at age 21 in 1993 and initially worked in Kittaning out of Troop D before being assigned to his hometown in Troop E and spending the rest of his career there. His younger brother also became a state police trooper and retired in July following a 25-year career.

"Being able to work in Erie, the community he grew up in, and give back to the community where he grew up and where he knows everybody is a great way to spend a career," Troop E. commander Capt. Kirk Reese said.

''I've always loved public service. I loved being able to make a difference within our community, make arrests, investigate crimes that are affecting the quality of life for everyone," Weindorf said. "Just doing everything you can to affect the quality of life for the people that we serve."

Weindorf cites as some of the highlights of his career a number of significant drug cases that led to large seizures of illegal drugs that were kept from flowing to the streets in the Erie area, and the Roman Catholic's assignment in 2015 to the security detail during Pope Francis's visit to Philadelphia.

Weindorf said three recent homicide cases also stand out because of the effort the criminal investigators under his command put into clearing them up.

One was the murder in February of Rebekah A. Byler, a pregnant Amish woman who was killed in her eastern Crawford County home. Weindorf said state police had no suspects or leads at the start, but through an intensive five-day investigation were able to identify and charge a suspect in Byler's death.

"To me, it was very happy to see an arrest being made and being able to make that community feel safe again," he said.

The second was the investigation into the disappearance and suspected death in 2023 of Summit Township resident Michael Maisner. He said state police were behind the 8-ball initially as investigators believe Maisner was killed a week or more before his family first reported Maisner missing. The tireless efforts of investigators would lead state police to charge a woman in the crime, Weindorf said.

The third was the discovery in November of the body of Nashville resident Michelle Lee Tayse along Interstate 90 in Greene Township. Tayse died of stab wounds, and her body had been burned. State police also had no leads to go on initially, but through efforts including sending a team of investigators to Nashville state police have developed significant leads and are putting information together to bring the case to closure, Weindorf said.

"The Troop E Major Case Team, the investigators and supervisors, just do a phenomenal job investigating these cases and leading these cases and leaving no stone unturned and using all available resources and clearing these cases. They do a phenominal job, and I'm really proud of them for how well they do," Weindorf said.

Weindorf said he loved the camaraderie in his job, as he often worked in small units. And he said he will miss the relationships built on the job, not just through the state police but with other law enforcement officers and the community at large.

"You get a real good exposure to a lot of different people working a job like this, and that's something I'll really miss. Just the networking and the people that you meet and the relationships you build. Everybody kind of has a common goal, to make our community safe and be able to live a happy life," he said.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Erie native wraps up long career with the Pennsylvania State Police
With the stroke of the governors pen, local governments in Florida are now blocked from requiring heat protections for outdoor workers, driving a stake through the heart of Miami-Dade Countys efforts to keep farmworkers and construction workers safe from extreme heat.

Gov. Ron DeSantis quietly signed the bill (HB 433) into law late Thursday night, along with a host of other small bills, despite a Democrat-led campaign for a veto.

The result: cities and counties in Florida can no longer mandate employers offer water, rest and shade to their outdoor employees on hot days.

The Republican-led pre-emption was sparked by Miami-Dades push for these protections, along with financial penalties if employers didnt follow them. But even before the bill was drafted in November, lobbyists from the politically powerful real estate and agriculture industries successfully watered down the fledgling bill and derailed it. It officially died last month.

READ MORE: Miami-Dades push to protect outdoor workers dies after state ban. Whats next?

Lobbyists for those business interests, along with the politicians supporting the pre-emption, argued that new worker protections for one corner of the state would be too complicated for employers to follow, and said that the current rules do a good enough job of protecting employees.

In a Thursday night statement, Bill Herrle, Florida director of the National Federation of Independent Business, said the bill will help create a stable environment where owners can grow their businesses.

Small business owners dont have the time or the resources to navigate a confusing and contradictory array of local ordinances that go beyond [what] the state already mandates, he wrote.

Outdoor workers, and the advocacy groups supporting them, insist that the current regulations arent enough. Workers are getting sick and dying in the heat, and summers are only getting hotter as climate change turns up the temperature.

READ NEXT: 46 sweltering days: Miamis record heat streak offers a glimpse at summers to come

In an April 2 letter asking DeSantis to veto the bill, more than 40 labor and environmental groups said that outdoor workers are not protected by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration and employers are not incentivized to offer water, rest and shade.

The industry argument against local worker protection ordinances is that employers are already protecting their workers. If this is the case, then, why are industry leaders concerned about a bill that can protect those workers whose employers may not be providing those protections? What is business afraid of if they are already doing the right thing? We know of hundreds, if not thousands, of stories of workers who do not receive those protections in the workplace, they wrote.

The bill also bans local governments from requiring contractors to offer anything higher than the statewide minimum wage, which is currently $12 an hour and is set to rise to $13 an hour in September.
In this 2018 file photo, lifeguards from all over Florida compete in a run up to the United States Lifesaving Association's regional championships in Flagler Beach.

Flagler County was recently named one of the most "dangerous counties" for beachgoers nationwide, according to a study released by a personal injury law firm in Connecticut.

But a Flagler Beach official is pushing back against the firms use of dangerous when describing the local beach and pointed out flaws in the study.

Flagler ranked sixth on the list, which includes three other Florida counties.

The research carried out by Connecticut Trial Firm analyzed data from the United States Lifesaving Association pertaining to the number of rescues seen in each county in the last 10 years while also factoring in beach attendance, according to a press release.

Sharks, lightning, rough surf: The most dangerous beaches in Florida, by the numbers

This way, it has tried to establish the counties in which beachgoers are most likely to be in need of rescue.

What does the law firms study say about dangerous counties for beachgoers?

Connecticut Trial Firm used data gathered from the United States Lifesaving Association  a nonprofit professional association of beach lifeguards and open-water rescuers that works to reduce the incidence of death and injury in the aquatic environment through public education, national lifeguard standards, training programs, promotion of high levels of lifeguard readiness, and other means, according to its website.

Going back to 2013, the data shows the number of rescues and beach attendance in counties across the country, thus determining each of these areas number of rescues per 100,000 beachgoers.

With a total attendance of 1,065,000 over that period and 987 rescues reported, Flagler County appears at number six on the list with 92.68 rescues per 100,000 beachgoers.

Bay County is third with 115.06; Nassau County is fifth with 95.03; and Escambia County ranked eighth with 66.91.

The most dangerous county in America for beachgoers, according to the study, is Oregons Clackamas County.

In Daytona Beach: Daytona Beach at top of list of Best Places to Live in Florida by U.S. News & World Report

With summer around the corner, vacationers and locals alike are going to be flooding towards their favorite bathing spots around the country soon, said Connecticut Trial Firms Ryan McKeen in the press release. With this, of course, come the dangers that are present, even in one of the more relaxing settings. Its always interesting to see the places where such dangers seem to prevail most, and hopefully, this can help beachgoers and lifeguards in these areas to be prepared for potential dangers.

Flagler Beach official and lifeguard pushes back against study

Tom Gillin, ocean rescue director for the city of Flagler Beach, said the study does not consider key pieces of information.

There is only about 137 USLA agencies across the country, Gillin said of the lifeguard agencies recognized by the United States Lifesaving Association. Hes only look at the statistics of 137 beaches out of I dont know how many thousands of beaches are out there.

Tom Gillin, ocean rescue director for the city of Flagler Beach.

Another part of the study that Gillin said bothered him was the fact it doesn't elaborate on the information submitted to USLA, which has details pertaining to the rescues.

When we submit our stats, they ask for an array of different things, he said. The number of people who visited the beach, number of rescues, number of first aid cases, number of drownings, number of drownings in an unprotected area and in the protected areas.

Gillin pointed out that the lifeguard service in the county is only provided within Flagler Beach city limits and in a seasonal schedule  making the studys numbers those of that city, and not the county as a whole.

Lifeguards there begin duty during weekends in May. From Memorial Day until Labor Day weekend, the city posts guards seven days a week. After Labor Day, they go back to weekends only until October.

(They) just went and took those two bits of information  the people at the beach and the number of rescues made  and came to a conclusion. So that made me feel like they had an agenda to sway things a certain way.

If he were to look for the most dangerous beaches in the country, Gillin said he would look for where there are the most drownings, which the study completely ignored.

Over the last 10 years, you look over our number of drownings, its zero, Gillin said. Which essentially makes us one of the safest beaches you can go to.

Report: Shark bites are up in 2023; Florida, Volusia County top list again

Gillin said it would be fair to say we are one of the busiest beaches, because we make a lot of rescues from the number of people on our beach, and I think one the main reasons for that is we get a lot of tourists on the beach that dont understand the dynamics of the ocean, and they are more likely to need assistance when they go in the water.

He said beachgoers should always try to swim in front of a lifeguard tower if swimming at the beach.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Flagler beaches among most 'dangerous', says study; official pushes back
Four months later, a plaque in a city park with a big mistake about the Holocaust remains

Reality Check is a Sacramento Bee series holding officials and organizations accountable and shining a light on their decisions. Have a tip? Email realitycheck@sacbee.com.

Last December, The Sacramento Bee reported an embarrassing mistake about the Holocaust on a commemorative plaque in a new city park.

The plaque celebrates the accomplishments of Bronze Star recipient Alexander Pete Petrovich, the late father of Paul Petrovich, developer of Crocker Village in Curtis Park, for, among other deeds, guiding his troops during the initial liberation of the Dachau Concentration Camp in Poland.

The problem is: Dachau is not in Poland. Its in Germany, near Munich  more than 500 miles from the Polish border.

Nearly four months later, The Bee checked to see if the sign had been fixed.

Dachau remains in Poland. And taxpayers are on the hook to pay thousands of dollars to fix the error.

A plaque at Petrovich Family Playfields in Sacramentos Crocker Village development, shown on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, recounts the family history of developer Paul Petrovich.

How is this not fixed yet? asked nearby Curtis Park resident Bill Arzbaecher. You can visit Dachau. I have. Its definitely in Germany, and the history there is very somber, tragic, and different from concentration camps where millions of Nazi victims were sent in Poland.

City spokeswoman Gabby Miller said taxpayers will foot the estimated $6,500 bill to replace the plaque, even though the error was made by Petrovich, and not caught by the city.

A bitter dispute

The plaque, placed in November by Petrovichs company, is part of a broader settlement of a 2016 lawsuit approved by the city council last July over the citys handling of an unsuccessful bid by Petrovich to place a gas station in his Crocker Village development. In the fine print was a reversal by the city of another decision.

Developer Paul Petrovich waits to speak to the Sacramento City Council Nov. 17, 2015. A state appeals court ruled the Sacramento City Council denied developer Paul Petrovich a fair hearing when he asked to build a gas station next to the Safeway supermarket in the Crocker Village development.

Petrovich, citing his contributions to the city, including the Crocker Village development, became furious in 2019 when he was told by city officials he had to go through a competitive process if he wanted a park, which is part of Crocker Village, named after his family.

A parks commission and the Sacramento City Council decided in 2019 that the new city park should be named for the iconic Sacramento-born woman designer, Ray Eames, rejecting Petrovichs bid.

The July settlement over the gas station legal claims approved by the City Council gave Petrovich $7.5 million. It also gave a windfall from the citys $18.5 million purchase of a K street property owned by Petrovich. And flip-flopped on the park naming.

The majority of the park, according to the settlement, would be named for Petrovichs family, with a small playground named for Eames. Petrovich submitted the language for the plaque, to which the city agreed. An artists depiction of the plaque was attached to the settlement.

Petrovich placed the sign in front of the unfinished park in November, even though the agreement called for the city to place the plaque, with Petrovich paying for it, once the park had been completed and turned over to the city.

The still unfinished Petrovich Playfields, which include a grassy field doubling as a flood basin, a few benches, and a concrete path, is hardly the most fiscally consequential element of a settlement that has cost the city nearly $30 million. But the mistake, and its associated cost, is a reminder of a bitter dispute between Petrovich and the city that lasted years.

In a biography submitted to the city in 2019, Petrovich stated that, Pete led his troops through Germany and under his command, freed the Concentration Camp at the medieval city of Dachau on April 29, 1945. Pete helped erect the Star of David and a Cross over the ovens where so many perished at the hands of the Nazis.

Petrovich did not respond to recent phone and text messages from The Bee. In December he said in a phone interview that the Poland error was an unfortunate mistake, and that the underlying story was true and accurate.

Maybe the sign guy did it

Responding to questions about the Poland mistake, Petrovich said, the text and the typo, I dont know how that happened. Maybe the sign guy did it I cant believe how many times all these documents were reviewed by seven lawyers on the city side. Plus the city attorney. I have one lawyer on my side, by the way.

The park hasnt been officially turned over to the city yet.

Alexander (Pete) Petrovich receiving Bronze Star during World War II

Why the city will pay for it

Arzbaecher said, What the city should be saying to Mr. Petrovich is: Take down that inaccurate plaque immediately.

Arzbaecher added that while he respects Pete Petrovichs war heroism, before a new plaque is placed, all the historical claims made in the plaque should be vetted by the city to make sure whatever replaces it is historically accurate.

Last week, city spokeswoman Gabby Miller told The Bee that the revised plaque will be installed after the city accepts the site from the developer.

Although the language in the settlement puts the onus on Petrovich to pay for the plaque, Miller said in an email that the city will pay the $6,500 for the replacement.

Overall, the City believes it bears some responsibility for the error, as City staff reviews all language before it is posted at City facilities, she wrote. This included review of the specific language for the plaque, and we did not identify the incorrect wording. In doing so, the City approved the language in error before the developer fabricated the sign.

In the spirit of fairness, and with the desire to keep this project moving forward toward completion, the City has agreed to replace the plaque, as the current one requires removal.

Present pain

This is painful on multiple levels, said Gretchen Steinberg.

Steinberg was one of the driving forces behind a 2014 retrospective of Ray Eames work at the California Museum and an advocate for the Eames designation for the park. She expressed dismay about relegating the Eames part of the park to an off-the-beaten path playground, and the mistake over the Holocaust.

What is painful is that no one, not the city, or the developer seems to care about this mistake, at least enough to fix it for months, Steinberg said.

She pointed out that Eames was half-Jewish and played a major role in the war effort, helping design flexible wooden splints to help injured soldiers.

I think she would be quite disappointed by this happening in her home city, she said.

Petrovich made this mistake, but taxpayers have to pay for it, said resident Bill Stokes. How does that make sense?
Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa), arrives for Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro's Inauguration on Jan. 17, 2023, at the state Capitol in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Matt Rourke via Associated Press

A recent attack ad against progressive Squad member Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.) depicts her as a radical threat to Democrats agenda. As the ad pans over photos of pro-abortion rights protests, the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and former President Donald Trump, a narrator warns, Our rights are under attack, our democracy at risk, and in this moment, Representative Summer Lee is opposing President Biden. The spot concludes with a plug for Bhavini Patel, a Pittsburgh-area council member challenging Lee as a moderate alternative.

Ads like these, against progressive members of Congress like Lee, are standard fare in a Democratic primary. Except the donor behind these ads is Pennsylvania billionaire Jeffrey Yass, who is this cycles single largest donor to the Republican party and on the shortlist for Treasury Secretary in a second Trump White House.

Yass has lavished more than $1.8 million on the super PAC behind the ads, Moderate PAC, making him the PACs single largest donor by far. At the same time he is paying for ads invoking the specter of Jan. 6, in other words, he is closely tied to the man who instigated it.

For me, its really the audacity, Lee said in an interview. They dont support Biden.  Jeff Yass is supportive of an insurrectionist. For any candidate to use dollars coming from him to paint me as an extremist is really rich.

Yass made his fortune as an international stock trader, and, ProPublica reported, by assiduously structuring his wealth to avoid high taxes. His trading firm, Susquehanna International Group, is a major investor in TikToks parent company, ByteDance.

Susquehanna was also the largest institutional investor in the shell company that took Trumps social media company public, causing Trumps net worth to skyrocket at a perilous moment for his personal finances. Yass was reportedly on the guest list for Trumps high-dollar Palm Beach fundraiser that took place last week.

His support for Patel fits a larger pattern of Republican dollars sneaking their way into this years Democratic primaries. Earlier this year, progressives accused the American Israel Public Affairs Committee super PAC, which is nominally bipartisan, of laundering Republican billionaires money into Democratic primaries under the guise of supporting a moderate political agenda.

Members of the Squad, the high-profile group of Black and brown progressives who have not only led calls for a cease-fire in the war on Gaza, but also pressed Democrats to expand the social safety net and raise taxes on the wealthy, are among the groups prime targets.

AIPAC spent roughly $4 million opposing Lee in her first election in 2022. And while they are sitting out her primary this year, having assessed her as too strong a candidate, Lee said Moderate PACs tactics are about the same.

This is my second cycle dealing with disinformation and contorting the facts, she said. Answering charges that she is insufficiently supportive of Biden, her campaign notes she has hosted several Biden cabinet members and Vice President Kamala Harris in her district, and appeared at party-led rallies for abortion rights. Theyre using dog whistles  this idea that a Black progressive woman is vaguely too extreme to represent you in Congress.

Moderate PAC launched in 2022 under Ty Strong, a former Booz Allen Hamilton analyst, who said the group would raise $20 million to protect moderate Democrats from progressive primary challengers. Yass, who gave $1 million in July, wound up being the groups only donor in the 2022 midterms.

When the group ran its first ads against Lee earlier this year, Lee turned Yass apparent support into a line of attack on Patel: Her entire campaign is backed by Republicans, yet she says Im not a good enough Democrat, Lee said in a recent debate.

For me, its really the audacity.  They dont support Biden.Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.)

At the time, Moderate PAC had not yet disclosed its donors. Strong took the opportunity to rebrand Moderate PAC not as Yass PAC but as a coalition of disgruntled Pittsburgh Democrats bent on ousting Lee.

New campaign finance disclosures filed Wednesday, however, revealed that Yass donated $800,000 to Moderate PAC, or roughly four out of every five dollars the group raised to fight in Lees primary, in late February.

The disclosure shatters several of Strongs previous claims about Yass. In late March  three weeks after Yass wrote a check  Strong told The Washington Post that Yass was not behind the ads, instead citing two Pittsburgh developers, Todd Reidbord and Gregg Perelman, and the local chapter International Union of Operating Engineers.

Last week, Strong admitted to Politico that Yass had made a sizable donation. But he claimed he approached Yass only after raising money among Lees constituents, and said people in Lees district would ultimately donate just as much as Yass.

He knew nothing about Summer, Strong said. And so its not Jeff Yass, its me and Pittsburgh who realized that this far-left member shouldnt be representing a D-plus-eight district.

In fact, the PAC raised only $233,944 from sources other than Yass  not even half of the $586,843 it has spent so far in Lees primary. Many of the Democratic donors he name-checked in previous weeks gave Moderate PAC $5,000 or less; Perelman, the developer, does not appear to have donated at all.

Strong did not respond to a request for comment.

Patel, whose campaign cannot coordinate with Moderate PAC, initially seized on the idea that Moderate PAC was funded by local Democrats.

At a March 21 campaign event, Patel said it was misinformation to claim Yass was supporting her campaign.

[The Moderate PAC] was actually funded by labor unions, interestingly, she said. Operating engineers gave to it, several other labor unions gave to it, there are local residents in this district who have given to that PAC to run the ads that theyre running. Jeffrey Yass has not given money to that, Ive not taken money from Jeffrey Yass.

In an interview this week, after Moderate PAC disclosed its donors, Patel said she agrees with Moderate PACs message that Lee is not sufficiently supportive of Biden. But she said she, like Lee, wishes Yass werent her supporter.

Im a lifelong Democrat, she said. Framing the conversation on anything else deflects from my ability to talk about my opponents record.

Asked why she believes Yass is in her corner, she said she didnt have an answer, and echoed what she said in that early April debate with Lee: I denounce Donald Trump. I denounce Jeffery Yass.
A Houthi court sentenced nine men to death on charges of sodomy, Human Rights Watch has found, while sentencing an additional 23 men to prison.

An investigation by the organization revealed that the 32 men were sentenced earlier this year on January 23. The nine death sentences included crucifixion and stoning, and an additional three were sentenced to public flogging, marking one of the most harrowing cases of civilians being sentenced for immoral acts" under the conservative Islamist regime.

In an abhorrent disregard for the rule of law, the Houthis are handing down death sentences and subjecting men to public mistreatment without a semblance of due process, Niku Jafarnia, Yemen and Bahrain researcher at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. The Houthis are using these cruel measures to distract from their failure to govern and provide people in their territories with basic needs.

The sentences were handed down after "egregious violations of Yemens own criminal procedural code," according to the organization. This included "blatant due process violations" such as law enforcement failing to provide arrest warrants and unlawfully confiscating the mens phones.

The men are also believed to have been denied adequate access to legal council, in violation of the country's laws. Yemen's Criminal Procedures law, under articles 132 and 172, prohibits law enforcement from making arrests or seizing peoples belongings without a warrant. Article 181 also prohibits police from interrogating suspects without the presence of a lawyer.

The Houthis, who control expansive territory in Yemen, are still obligated under international law to "respect and protect the human rights of individuals and groups even as a non-state actor, the organization noted. It called on the militant group to "end their use of the death penalty and other forms of cruel and degrading punishment and provide fair trials for those charged."



To cover up their brutality, Houthis are charging people with immoral acts, especially for those who oppose them, Jafarnia continued. The Houthis should immediately end the use of the death penalty and other forms of cruel and degrading punishments and provide due process for those charged.
Illinois lawmakers call for ban on intoxicating hemp products, but retailers call for regulations

Illinois lawmakers joined the licensed cannabis industry Thursday in calling for a ban on intoxicating hemp products such as Delta-8-THC, a move retailers of such substances said would put them out of business.

The Cannabis Business Association of Illinois, which represents large licensed marijuana companies, called for allowing regulated sales of non-intoxicating hemp products such as CBD, but prohibiting sales of intoxicants until a committee can recommend how to proceed.

Tiffany Ingram, executive director of the association, called synthetically derived cannabinoids, including Delta-8 and THC-O, Frankenstein weed.

Hemp is the same cannabis plant that makes marijuana, but by law is supposed to have less than .3% THC, the component that gets pot users high. Federal lawmakers legalized it in the 2018 Farm Bill. But manufacturers found ways to create derivatives that get users high.

The products are now commonly sold at gas stations, smoke shops, and corner stores, with no age restrictions and no requirements for testing or labeling. Some packaging mimics snacks or candy that appeal to children.

This is why Illinois needs to push pause on these products, Ingram said.

Unlike hemp, licensed cannabis companies in Illinois must test and label their products for potency, pesticides and other contaminants, have limits on total THC, and prohibit sales to those 21 and older. Customers also must pay high taxes.

But some hemp business owners say they voluntarily follow the same standards and have long called for state regulation so they dont get lumped in with bad operators.

Charles Wu, co-founder of ChiTiva, with hemp stores in Chicago and Worth, said the proposed ban was a money play to eliminate competition.

We want to operate responsibly and on a level playing field, he said. This would put us out of business.

Rep. La Shawn Ford has introduced an alternative bill that would allow sales of intoxicating hemp products, but require them to be tested, labeled, regulated and taxed. Just as with cannabis, he said, prohibition only creates a underground market.

This is so strange and hypocritical, Ford said. Just because you ban a product doesnt mean its going away. We need to tax and regulate it.

Several lawmakers spoke in favor of the ban.

Chief sponsor Rep. Nick Smith, who represents an area from the South Side of Chicago to Kankakee County, called it common sense legislation to protect children, consumers and licensed businesses.

Rep. Eva-dina Delgado, a mother of a teenager who represents the Northwest Side of Chicago, said kids get it from stores and call it greening out.

It scares me to my core to think about young people putting that in their bodies and we just have no idea whats in it, she said.

Ron Miller, part of family-owned Navada Labs, which operates BLYSS Dispensary in downstate Mount Vernon, called it a betrayal that the state allows unregulated operators while he has to follow strict and costly regulations.

Now (we) have to compete with an unlevel playing field, he said.

The bill would require hemp business to be licensed and follow good manufacturing practices. Violators would be subject to fines of up to $10,000 and loss of license. The Illinois Department of Agriculture and local police could conduct enforcement.

As proposed, the measure would create a committee to recommend safety standards and require state agencies to establish a regulatory and enforcement framework for hemp-derived THC products. The bill also would authorize 50 new dispensaries and 50 new infusers.

The committee would make its recommendations by Jan. 1, with licenses to be awarded by July 2025.
An OFallon man has been charged by the Illinois Attorney Generals office with 11 counts of possessing child pornography.

A St. Clair County judge on Thursday ordered that Seth MacDonald, 45, be held at the county jail until his trial.

According to a release from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, MacDonald was investigated and charged as part of an ongoing collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local police, to stop the download and trade of child pornography online.

The Class 2 felonies are punishable by three to seven years in prison per count and the sentences must be served consecutively.

These charges highlight the importance of my offices Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in holding alleged perpetrators accountable for exploiting children, Raoul said in a statement. I will continue to partner with law enforcement to investigate these heinous crimes.

According to the release, investigators from the OFallon and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville police departments, and the St. Clair County Sheriffs Department searched MacDonalds residence in the 900 block of Buran Drive in OFallon on April 9.

MacDonald was arrested when evidence of child pornography was discovered, the release said. Child sexual exploitation can be reported online at cybertipline.com and child abuse at dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov. In addition, local child advocacy centers can be found at childrensadvocacycentersofillinois.org.
Immigrants seeking asylum wait to board a bus to a U.S. Border Patrol processing center in May 2023, after crossing into Arizona from Mexico.

A new piece of immigration legislation working its way through the Oklahoma Legislature and sponsored by the Republican leaders of each chamber, would clamp down on illegal immigration and create the crime of impermissible occupation.

The bill, which attempts to provide a state fix to the issue of illegal border crossings, is expected to be filed next week by House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, and Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.

The new law would define impermissible occupation as a person willfully and without permission entering and remaining in Oklahoma without first obtaining legal authorization to enter the U.S.

The first offense would be a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for a term of not more than one year or by a fine of not more than $500, or both. Offenders would be required to leave the state within 72 hours from the date and time of the order. They are prohibited from reentering the state at any time thereafter.

The second offense is a felony punishable by imprisonment under the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for not more than two years or by a fine of not less than $1,000. The person is still required to leave the state within 72 hours and prohibited from returning.

McCall said the bill would not address deportation but was intended to discourage migration to Oklahoma. He said the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation would maintain a database of illegal arrivals.

The measure would also prevent any sanctuary cities" in Oklahoma.

McCall said he would not allow Oklahomans to face the issues experienced by border states and others.

"Oklahoma citizens should not be footing the bill for those illegally in our country, and this legislation will make Oklahoma the least attractive state in the nation for illegal immigrants," he said.

Treat said legal immigration provides endless opportunities for people to come to the U.S. and prosper. He said there has been work behind the scenes on the measure.

"There's not an agreement yet, but I believe you'll see some announcements shortly.

"I believe there's going to be challenges to anything we do," he said. "But it's a great challenge to Okahoma law enforcement when we have a federal government that's not willing to enforce he border now."

Also under consideration in the Legislature is HB 3071, which would prohibit the use of state revenue to provide benefits to people who are in the U.S. without permission unless the costs are related to education, jailing or transporting someone to an out-of-state destination. The bill was authored by Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah, and was last reviews in the Senate Appropriations committee.

McCall said Oklahoma would work with other states in the region on the issue and said he expected some of them to pass similar legislation. Texas already has proposed such a bill that, according to the Texas Tribune, would impose harsher punishments than Oklahomas. The proposed legislation has been met with controversy as critics say it interferes with federal immigration laws.

Contributing: Staff writer Scott Carter

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma legislative leaders follow Texas' lead on immigration
Legalizing psychedelics may be up to MA voters this fall. Why opponents want more details

BOSTON  Advocates are calling for a November ballot initiative to bring a legal psychedelics marketplace to Massachusetts.

The 39-page initiative, called the Natural Psychedelic Substances Act, would eliminate criminal penalties for possession and usage of natural psychedelics  including psilocybin  and form a new regulatory commission to provide access to natural psychedelics.

During a public hearing last month at the State House, proponents and opponents of the measure each stated their positions.

Among the ballot initiative's supporters is the Massachusetts for Mental Health Options, an in-state campaign supported by the Washington, D.C.-based New Approach PAC, which has supported and helped pass legislation legalizing psychedelics in other states. An MMHO official testified that most people will receive care through licensed healing centers, where they can access trained professionals.

Emily Oneschuk, U.S. Navy veteran and the campaign director for Massachusetts for Mental Health Options, speaks to lawmakers during a hearing last month on a ballot question to decriminalize some psychedelics at the State House on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

'Amazing breakthrough': Salem is sixth Mass. community to roll back enforcement on psychedelic mushrooms

Psychedelics are really powerful, said Emily Oneschuk, the grassroots campaign director for MMHO. In order to get the therapeutic benefits that I have gotten out of it and everyone else has, it helps to have someone there to guide you through that process because it can be very difficult.

Opponents say initiative would push up prices for psychedelics

But opponents of the proposal called on lawmakers to instead send an alternative question to the November ballot.

James Davis, founder of Bay Staters for Natural Medicine, said implementing a new system, as set forth by the ballot question initiative, would push up prices, thereby limiting access. Oregon passed legislation similar to the Massachusetts proposal, then saw its first licensed center charge $3,500 for a high dose trip.

Volunteers have lived here for generations, and do not want plant medicine that has saved their lives to be monopolized and cost thousands of dollars for something that is normally given away for free, Davis said.

James Davis, founder of Bay Staters for Natural Medicine, poses with Cindy Bernier, president of Green Network Providers, after a recent public hearing at the State House. The two opoose a state ballot initiative calling for the legalization of a psychedelics marketplace, with Davis saying the measure would drive up prices and create too much regulation for those who wish to safely provide the product.

His group and others are suggesting also said that that an alternative question be sent to the November ballot. Under their proposal, there would be no central commission; instead, their initiative would decriminalize possession and create a very basic set of guidelines for those seeking to become a psychedelics facilitator.

The chair of a very similar commission in Oregon  had to resign because his romantic partner was selling the trainings he was tasked with regulating, Davis said. When you have unelected control boards like this, they inevitably fall into corruption.

Ellen Brown, a member of the Massachusetts Cannabis Advisory Board, added that the alternative bill would be "the most advantageous in terms of minimizing regulation of the industry and streamlining access for future needs.

We can do this ourselves here in the state of Massachusetts, she said. With in-state ballot initiatives, with in-state advocates, with in-state educators that know whats going on and what works best for the Commonwealth, not cookie-cutter frameworks from other states.

Davis says initiative would require therapists to spend thousands on licenses

Davis also said the ballot initiatives model would require therapists to spend tens of thousands of dollars on licenses and insurance in order to offer treatment. But to obtain a psilocybin facilitators license under the revised version of the law  supported by Davis and Bay Staters for Natural Medicine  trainees would be required to take 20 hours of training and pay a $150 biennial fee, as opposed to 120 hours in Oregon and more in fees, according to Davis.

What this is all about (the ballot initiative) is tricking people who want to be facilitators, who want to be healers, into taking tens of thousands of dollars in loans for training programs, when we offer training for free, he said.

The MMHO has proposed ways to increase affordability, which include what it calls community impact pilots.

Jamie Morey, left, founder of Parents for Plant Medicine, and her son Dylan Morey, right, testify in favor of a ballot question to decriminalize some psychedelics. Dylan Morey found relief from his depression and OCD associated with PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections) through psilocybin treatment.

During last month's State House hearing, Oneschuk spoke of how psilocybin helped her cope with the passing of her brother.

All of the difficult and hard things I have seen in my life, wove together in a beautiful way where they did not keep me from enjoying it anymore, she said.

Several other advocates with their own personal stories prior to the legislative hearing.

Mass General official says psychedelics show promise in combating mental health crisis

Dr. Franklin King, director of training and education at Massachusetts General Hospitals Center for Neuroscience of Psychedelics, testified in support of decriminalization, saying psychedelics show immense promise in helping remedy the current mental health crisis.

We know that for classic psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, the medical risks are extremely minimal, and the potential for (physiological) abuse is close to zero, he said. Addiction is not biologically possible.

But unlike the marijuana industry, psilocybin is consumed in small doses and may only be taken a handful of times in a consumers lifetime, Davis said. It does not make sense for there to be centralized distribution, he said, when home cultivation of mushrooms can yield more than enough psilocybin for individuals.

While MMHOs ballot initiative does include a provision allowing for home cultivation, the amount one can grow is capped, and its difficult to stay under the limit given how mushrooms are grown, Davis said.

Other professionals highlighted the lack of research in certain areas and dangers of psychedelics when used by certain populations, like those with schizophrenia.

Psilocybin remains illegal at the federal level, and the ballot initiative would decriminalize small amounts of psilocybin possession, but not legalize it outright in the state.

Sandy Bernier, president of Green Network Providers, a Weymouth-based psychedelics advocacy organization, said facilitators dont really need a lot of professional training to act as guides for psychedelic experiences.

She said the ballot initiative will likely limit access to marginal communities when everyone should have the fundamental right to their consciousness and experience altered states of consciousness.

We dont have that kind of time right now, she said. We are in a mental health, spiritual crisis. What are we doing about this crisis? We cant wait.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: MA Elections: Voters may weigh in on legalizing psychedelics
A police officer in Memphis, Tennessee, was shot and killed when officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle early Friday morning, police said. One suspect was killed and two other officers and another suspect were wounded in an exchange of gunfire during the incident, interim Police Chief Cerelyn Davis said during a news conference.

"We are heartbroken of the lives lost, our fallen officer and this senseless act of violence," Mayor Paul Young told reporters.

The slain officer was identified by Davis as Joseph McKinney, 26, who had been with the police department for about three years. The slain suspect was identified by the Shelby County district attorney's office as Jaylen Lobley, 18.

Officer Joseph McKinney is seen in a photo provided by the Memphis Police Department. / Credit: Memphis Police Department

"The men and women of the Memphis Police Department are hurt right now. As chief of police, I am hurt right now at, once again, senseless deaths in our community by gun violence," Davis said.

The shooting unfolded when officers responded to the suspicious vehicle call at around 2 a.m., Davis said. The occupants of the vehicle opened fire on the officers when they approached, Davis said.

Officers returned fire and the suspects drove away, Davis said. After a short pursuit, the suspect vehicle stopped. One suspect was immediately apprehended, and the other was taken into custody nearby after fleeing the scene. They were both taken to a hospital in critical condition with gunshot wounds, Davis said.

One of the wounded officers was taken to the hospital and their condition was not critical, Davis said. The third officer was treated at the scene.

Lobley was arrested last month on auto theft charges and released without bond, Davis said. When he was arrested in March, he had an illegally modified semiautomatic weapon, Davis said.

The second suspect was identified as a 17-year-old.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating the shooting.

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Michael Gableman, the onetime prober of the 2020 election, says Robin Vos recall was 'sabotaged'

Michael Gableman, the former state Supreme Court justice who led the GOP review of the 2020 election, delivers a report during an informational hearing of the Assembly Committee on Campaigns and Elections on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at the Capitol in Madison.

MADISON  A former state Supreme Court justice who spent more than $2 million in taxpayer dollars to review the 2020 election is now representing a group of supporters of former President Donald Trump in their effort to unseat the legislative leader who hired him to probe the last presidential election.

Former state Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman represented a group of Racine County-area supporters of Trump who have launched two recall campaigns against Assembly Speaker Robin Vos during a Thursday night meeting of the Wisconsin Elections Commission. Commissioners rejected the group's first recall effort citing a lack of valid signatures.

More: Trump targets Meagan Wolfe, Robin Vos and Reince Priebus in interview focused on election falsehoods

Representing the group attempting to recall Vos is the latest move by Gableman to target Vos after the speaker hired him being in 2021 to review the last presidential election, a probe that catapulted Gableman to a national platform with election conspiracy theorists and made him a favorite of Trump.

The former Supreme Court justice's contract with the state began in July 2021 after Trump leveled public criticism of Vos and other legislative leaders for not doing more to litigate his Wisconsin election loss in 2020.

Vos hired Gableman to probe the 2020 election and continued to renew his contract for a year even though the review never revealed any evidence of significant fraud or new facts related to the election not previously known.

Vos ended Gableman's contract with the state that provided more than $100,000 in salary to Gableman over 14 months. The review cost state taxpayers more than $2 million through costs for salaries and legal fees related to lawsuits filed against Gableman and Vos over ignored requests for public records.

Ultimately, Gableman turned on Vos and endorsed Vos' primary opponent and publicly encouraged Vos critics to consider recalling him.

On Thursday, Gableman became combative with commissioners and commission staff and at one point suggested the efforts of the group he represented had been "infiltrated" and alluded to potential involvement by Vos without providing evidence.

More: 'Whack jobs' and 'morons': Robin Vos rails at organizers of recall effort

"(The petitioners), in fact, had a two hour meeting with the FBI because they, and based on what I've heard and read, I believe that recall 1.0 was intentionally sabotaged, it was infiltrated by outsiders from New York and Florida," Gableman said. "I can't say whether it was done at the behest of Robin Vos or on his behalf."

Petitioners did not gather enough valid signatures during the first recall attempt and have been accused of employing circulators who forged signatures.

Racine County District Attorney Patricia Hanson as of March was investigating nearly 30 complaints from area residents who said their signatures were forged by the recall organizers.

Matthew Fernholz, an attorney for Vos, told commissioners Thursday a review of the petitions revealed signatures from people who were not old enough to vote, who were not citizens, or who were incapacitated at the time the petition was allegedly signed, among other allegations.

Vos did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Molly Beck can be reached at molly.beck@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Michael Gableman says Robin Vos recall effort was 'sabotaged'
Missouri State alumni center at 'front door of campus' to be named for Clif Smart

The Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center is expected to be built along National Avenue, just north of the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center.

Clif Smart will soon retire as president of Missouri State University but his name will live on there, adorning the alumni center planned for the heart of campus.

The announcement was made Friday morning.

Brent Dunn, vice president of university advancement and executive director of the MSU Foundation, said a donor who insisted on anonymity gave a seven-figure gift  more than $1 million  with a request that the new center be named for the university's 11th president.

"Anonymous gifts do happen, often, but something of this magnitude does not," Dunn said.

He said the donor, who will not be revealed even to Smart, wanted to "recognize the contributions Clif has made over his tenure at the university."

Dunn said the donor was also excited about the project and what it is expected to mean for the campus and for generating private support and alumni engagement in the future.

Brent Dunn, vice president of university advancement and executive director of the MSU Foundation, speaks at an event announcing the name of the new MSU alumni center, the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center, on Friday, April 12, 2024.

Smart served as the university's general counsel before he became president in June 2011. His final day in office will be July 1.

The two-story, 28,000-square-foot building will be constructed along National Avenue  just north of the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center  and be named the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center.

Smart said he was "stunned" by the gift and the honor.

"Very rarely does anyone gift a gift to be named for someone else not related to them," Smart said. "It is an amazing act of generosity and I was overwhelmed."

Smart, who has lived in Springfield for more than two decades, graduated from Tulane University and the University of Arkansas School of Law, but said over time MSU has become "my university."

"This is really the university that we care deeply about and to have my name associated with it indefinitely is amazing on a spectacular new building that will be right at the entrance to campus," he said. "I am grateful to whomever made that happen."

Missouri State President Cliff Smart speaks during a press conference announcing the new MSU alumni center is named after him, the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center, on Friday, April 12, 2024.

In mid-February, the MSU foundation sold the existing alumni center downtown to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks for $5.8 million to part of its long-term goal of having a highly visible footprint on the main campus.

That imposing structure, a former bank at 300 S. Jefferson Ave., was named the Meyer Alumni Center in honor of alumnus and longtime supporter Kenneth E. Meyer, who died in 2022.

Dunn announced Friday the Meyer name will adorn the new event center, which is planned as part of the alumni center.

"We want his name to continue," Dunn said of Meyer. "And so the events center will be named after him."

One of the conference rooms will be named for Beverly Miller Keltner, a former member of the MSU Board of Governors who has remained involved. The retired educator, who has worked extensively with the American Red Cross, is set to be the incoming char of the MSU Foundation Board of Trustees.

A rendering for the the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center is unveiled by a university ambassador on Friday, April 12, 2024.

Final designs are not yet complete for the new center but it is expected to cost at least $20 million. The elements will include:

Indoor event space with seating for 200;

Outdoor space for gatherings and serve as a hangout space with seating for students and visitors;

Offices for the foundation and university advancement team including development, alumni engagement and relations, donor relations and special events, advancement services and athletics development;

Gallery of memories to showcase static and interactive displays featuring the history of the university and the impact philanthropic gifts have made.

The Meyer Alumni Center on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. Community Foundation of the Ozarks bough the building from the Missouri State University Foundation.

Dunn said with the sale of the existing center  where MSU and the foundation will lease space until the new center is built  and the naming gifts, fundraising for the rest of the cost will ramp up.

The goal is to raise at least $10 million privately and many naming gifts remain for conference rooms, officers and other spaces. The foundation has also been saving funds for the project.

The project is expected to break ground in February and be open by summer 2026.

It will serve as the home for the MSU Foundation, the Alumni Center, and the university advancement staff. But, there will also be space for students, faculty and supporters to gather.

More: Gov. Parson, retired Sen. Blunt react to Clif Smart's plans to retire from Missouri State

An area that shows the history of the university through images and artifacts is also planned on the first floor.

"It will be a place for students to sit on the lawn and study. It's a place for students and staff to be a part of. It is really our home for all our publics. That is the purpose," Dunn said. "You have to be intentional to go to our (current) alumni center downtown but to be at the front door of campus, it makes a statement."

Clif and Gail Smart join new members of the Founders Club, who were honored at the 2016 medallion reception at the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center.

Smart said the location of the new alumni center next to the welcome center, where prospective students gather to start a tour, is intentional.

"We're going to have two amazing buildings, the beginning and essentially the end, represented right there and to have my name associated with that is amazing," he said. "I am honored beyond belief."

Smart said alumni centers at major universities are located "in a critical place" where it can serve as a magnet and a showcase.

"For events like homecoming and many others, having a gathering place there really highlights the importance of the foundation and the fundraising to the work that goes on here," he said. "But it's going to be so much more than that. We hope that it will be full regularly."

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Planned Missouri State alumni center will be named for Clif Smart
Sarm Heslop disappeared on a foreign island in 2021. Her boyfriends alleged actions in the aftermath only deepened her familys fears of foul play

findsarm; Getty Sarm Heslop Missing Poster (L); St. John Island (R)

It was March 2022, and Brenda Street was getting increasingly frustrated during her trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands to find out what happened to her daughter, Sarm Heslop, who had been missing for a year.

Heslop, a 41-year-old flight attendant from Hertfordshire, England, was last seen in March 2021, within weeks of arriving in St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands to be with her new boyfriend Ryan Bane, who operated high-end cruises on his yacht, the Siren Song. The two had met on Tinder in June 2020 in Grenada and, after Heslop briefly left for Malta in the Fall, Bane asked that she return to be with him.



Courtesy Kate Owen Sarm Heslop, left, and Ryan Bane

"I think she was starting to fall in love with him for sure. She loved to send photos of their adventures together," says Kate Vernalls, Heslop's best friend.

"I think she was excited as to what the future is going to hold," says Vernalls. "They're almost in paradise, aren't they?"



But things took a turn when Street received a call in the U.K. from Bane on March 8, 2021, claiming Heslop disappeared from his catamaran in the middle of the night. She has not been seen since.



What started off as an adventure in paradise for Heslop has now become a three-year-long agonizing mystery for her friends and family. Soon after her disappearance, they began suspecting foul play, their concerns only deepening when they heard Bane allegedly refused to let local authorities into his yacht during their search for Heslop, according to a coast guard report reviewed by PEOPLE. (Bane's lawyer David Cattie says allegations that he did not let authorities into the yacht are "categorically false").

David Johnston, a private investigator working pro-bono for Heslops family, claims he has heard through his sources on the ground that Bane has since made several changes on his yacht, including allegedly refitting the freezer, fueling Johnston and Heslop's family's suspicion that Bane may have had a role in Heslops disappearance.

Bane has never been charged in connection with the case.

Sarm Heslop

While Street feels Bane has some questions to answer, she also maintains that the island police had failed to conduct a thorough investigation - including interviewing him.

"They've not done their job as police officers and they certainly haven't done their job as human beings," says Street.



A series of suspicious activities on the island following her disappearance has only added to Street's concerns.

Following Heslop's disappearance, locals on the island had put up MISSING posters around the island. One day, Street claims to have received a photo showing someone had scribbled out the name of Banes yacht from a poster.



During her visit, Street had a strange interaction with a local shop owner, she says. The shop-owner was eagerly chatting with Street  until she learned why Street was visiting.

Whereas the lady had been really friendly, Street recalls, its like she clammed up and wouldnt say anything.

Authorities in St. John told PEOPLE an investigation is ongoing but did not provide further information.

Oakland County Sheriff/MEGA Ryan Bane

Street wasn't always suspicious of Bane. During the initial stage of the investigation, she "gave him the benefit of the doubt," she says. That changed, she says, after she learned more about him.

Soon after Heslop's disappearance, she tried to contact Bane but claims her messages did not go through, which made her suspect he had blocked her. Cattie says he is unaware of Bane blocking any numbers.

After Heslop's story got out, Bane's ex-wife Corie Stevenson came forward alleging abuse during their marriage that she said had left her fearing for her life. He was convicted in that domestic battery case and sentenced to 31 days, according to court records reviewed by PEOPLE.

Stevenson immediately called the U.S. Virgin Islands police to tell them they should investigate Bane but, she contends, the police did not take her seriously.

Sarm Heslop

While Heslop's friends and family continue their search, they do worry they may not find her alive.

"[Her] mom and dad have reluctantly come to the conclusion the Sarm is probably dead and [was] murdered by somebody," says Johnston. "So a significant change really from 'Find Sarm' to 'Justice for Sarm.'"

While they search for justice, Heslop's friends and family continue with activities that honor her memory. Her parents dedicated a bench in her name at a waterfront near where Heslop lived in Southhampton. Her friends gather for her birthday or on the anniversary of her disappearance to share stories and her favorite food.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Vernalls says if she hadn't gone missing, Heslop would probably continue her journey into the next adventure.

"She just would've done anything to continue traveling and she was fine with that," Vernalls says. "It didn't put any fear in her to go to new places."



If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.

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Read the original article on People.
Monkey see, monkey do: Did Fort Worth Zoo animals take eclipse cues from humans?

A crazy thing happened during the total solar eclipse Monday at the Fort Worth Zoo.

For the 2 minutes and 33 seconds that the midday sun in North Texas was completely shrouded by the moon  raining darkness and turning day into dusk  the animals took their cues from the humans.

Go figure. Monkey see, monkey do. Indeed.

The number one thing we drew from our 2017 and now our 2024 research, is that animals react accordingly to human response, Adam Hartstone-Rose, professor of biology at N.C. State University, told the Star Telegram. If humans respond calm and quietly, the animals seem to do the same.

Dozens of observers  from high school students to doctoral candidates  fanned out across the many enclosures and habitats at the zoo during the eclipse earlier this week. Many of them were with Hartstone-Rose during the 2017 eclipse, with pen and pad, jotting down notes at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, South Carolina. The study compared results from this years event to the one from seven years ago. The observers conclusions this year pretty much lined up with their previous observations: The zoo animals either think its time for bed, time to freak out or time to seek out a little love.

This reigned true in Fort Worth as there were little crowds or people and minimal noise during the eclipse,Hartstone-Rose said.

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In South Carolina back in 2017, the zoo was packed with visitors, giving the animals more to mimic. They recorded more anxious behaviors then, the professor recalled. Fort Worth was a little more subdued with thinner crowds.

Two things stood out in the data from 2017: First, the most notable reactions came from the humans, and second, the Tortoises went into mating mode.

Tortoises barely moved and some took part in a mud bath during the total solar eclipse at the Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, Texas, Monday Apr 08, 2024. (Special to the Star-Telegram Bob Booth) Bob Booth/Bob Booth

In Fort Worth, the most common observations was that many species thought it was time for bed. But Hartstone-Rose said there was a noticeable difference in reactions from animals behind glass enclosures compared to those without the partition.

It seems the animals who could not hear the humans behind the glass barely registered a reaction.

A video from the Dallas Zoo, which was significantly more crowded than Fort Worth, seems to prove Hartstone-Roses point. The footage shows giraffes and zebra rampaging in their pens before the eclipse  a reaction Hartstone-Rose attributes to human anticipation of the impending eclipse. Once the event was over, the animals reverted to normal behavior.

Giraffes just seemed to take it all in stride during the total solar eclipse at the Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, Texas, Monday Apr 08, 2024. Bob Booth/Special to the Star-Telegram Bob Booth

Ive heard crazy theories about birds falling out of the sky and dying during the eclipse, Hartstone-Rose said. Those arent true.

What the data shows, according to the professor, is that the birds did what they normally did in the evening, and that is to prepare for sleep.

A lone gorilla emerged from a den during the total solar eclipse at the Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, Texas, Monday Apr 08, 2024. (Special to the Star-Telegram Bob Booth) Bob Booth/Bob Booth

How animals at the Fort Worth Zoo reacted to the eclipse

A few species did react notably. Here is what they did:

The tortoises, three out of the four piled up against the steel door, wanting to be let in due to the temperature drop during the eclipse. They pushed so hard, it made the steel door bend. The one tortoise who didnt participate is blind, so he didnt get the memo.

Saltwater Crocodiles normally do not move much at all, but in totality it took a dip in its pond and then walked towards the door for its bedtime.

African Pygmy Falcon screeched when the sky turned dark.

Caribbean Flamingoes vocalized and the flamboyance huddled together, seeming to be more anxious.

African Penguins showed no signs of distress. However, the birds asked to be fed dinner as it turned dark, then breakfast once it got light again.

Owls, the nocturnal bird, started flying in circles and clawing at the cage right as the sky was turning dark.

Gorillas prepared for bedtime during the eclipse, then became playfully aggressive with one another.

Lion (female) began at the back exhibit asleep, and as totality came to end she rose and wanted her breakfast.

Ringtail racoon, a nocturnal desert racoon, awoke and moved around during totality.

Giraffes were huddled together as far away from zoo guests as they could venture.

Elephants huddled together towards their keeper at back of exhibit, but not at their bedtime door.

Caribbean Flamingos stayed close to their nesting grounds during the total solar eclipse at the Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, Texas, Monday Apr 08, 2024. (Special to the Star-Telegram Bob Booth) Bob Booth/Bob Booth

An eclipse study program for all to participate

Hartstone-Roses research is not confined to zoo inhabitants. As a member of the Solar Eclipse Safari, the professor has access to people on the path of totality who send their lay observations to the group.

From this, he found an obvious conclusion that aligned with his hypothesis: roosters do crow during a solar eclipse. He is still compiling data which he will publish in a research paper, including the observations from around the world.

For now, the monkey see, monkey do theory has proven true.
MS lawmakers still can't agree how to fund K-12 education. House reintroduces its own plan

The Mississippi House of Representatives has revived its vehicle for a new K-12 education funding model and sent it back to the Senate for further consideration.

On Wednesday in the Mississippi State Capitol, House Education Chairman Rep. Rob Roberson asked lawmakers to pass an amendment to Senate Bill 2693, which originally sought to provide a process for failing school districts to move into a district of transformation. The bill passed 103-16.

That amendment was to strip all of the bill's language and replace it with his INSPIRE Act, a new funding model that would replace the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, which uses an objective math formula that dictates lawmakers to fund it, with a new enrollment and committee-based funding model. The INSPIRE Act has already died twice in the Senate.

Read more about Senate killing INSPIRE Mississippi Senate blocks House K-12 education funding bill

"This will give us one more opportunity to give the Senate a chance to look at this and do what is best and right for our school children," Roberson, R-Starkville, said.

The House initially passed the INSPIRE Act under HB 1453 March 7, but Senate Education Chairman Dennis DeBar, R-Leakesville, did not pass it through his committee by an April 2 deadline to move it onto the Senate's general calendar.

In March, the House also amended DeBar's MAEP revision, SB 2332, striking all of the language and inserting the INSPIRE Act. That move kept the bill alive until Tuesday, when the Senate voted not to concur and to let the bill die instead of taking it to conference, which would feature lawmakers from both chambers to possibly iron out a compromise.

House Education Chair Rob Roberson, R-Starkville, speaks with House Speaker Jason White, R-West, March 6 following a vote to scrap the Mississippi Adequate Education Program at the Mississippi State Capitol in Jackson. On Wednesday, the House voted to approve changing a Senate Bill to revive the INSPIRE Act. (Credit: Grant McLaughlin)

On Wednesday, the Senate also passed a $2.94 billion appropriation to almost fully fund MAEP for the third time since its inception in the 1990s, along with language in the bill for the Mississippi Department of Education to study whether MAEP or the INSPIRE Act is a better funding model. MDE would report back to lawmakers with the results of that study in October.

Under the House plan, lawmakers would need to appropriate $3.01 billion to fully fund it.

Differences in House and Senate plan Mississippi Legislature chambers pass competing education funding bills. See what they are

Democratic leaders asking for an open education discussion

Republicans aren't the only ones talking about the heated debate between the Senate and the House over how to fund education, though.

Democratic leaders Rep. Robert Johnson, D-Natchez and Sen. Derrick Simmons, D-Greenville, said in a press release issued earlier this week that they feel throwing out MAEP so quickly is a step in the wrong direction.

"No one in this building is under the illusion that MAEP is a perfect formula," Simmons and Johnson said. "However, scrapping it completely and in this fashion  quickly and without thorough vetting  isnt the solution. Its certainly not the solution when some of the new formulas architects and most vocal supporters are people whove historically sought to dismantle public education at every turn."

DeBar, who tried to kill the INSPIRE Act on Wednesday, had similar concerns and said he was willing to meet with House members in the summer or next year to come to a more thorough decision.

However, House leaders, including Roberson and Rep. Jansen Owen, R-Poplarville, told the Clarion Ledger that if the INSPIRE Act isn't the state's funding model by the end of the legislative session, they would rather come back for a special session than to fund MAEP. House Speaker Jason White had similar words in a press release issued Tuesday.

"I have clearly communicated with Senate leadership the House position that we have funded MAEP for the last time," White said.

Johnson and Simmons also had concerns over the origins of data used in the INSPIRE Act and why the bill has been supported by third party groups advocating for school choice and public funds going toward private education.

"It doesnt make things any easier when we cant get a straightforward answer on where theformulas numbers came from or why the groups at the table from the formulas inceptionwerent public education advocates or longtime legislative allies, but instead were groups whosupport school choice and other policies that undermine Mississippis public education system," Simmons and Johnson said.

Read on group going to watch CCID court 'It will be the most closely watched court in Mississippi.' Group to collect data on CCID

With SB 2693 now in the Senate, DeBar has until April 25 to take any action on the bill. Similarly, the House will have until April 25 to pass the Senate's education funding bill. School districts are currently funded through MAEP until July 1.

Grant McLaughlin covers state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi House revives K-12 education funding model
Theres a new meme being shared widely this week across social media accounts in Colombias capital Bogota, as the city grapples with a water crisis.

Its an image of C. Montgomery Burns, the supervillain from the animated series The Simpsons, showing up at the door with a bunch of red roses and a heart-shaped chocolate box. Smiling, he says: I saw your turn of water rationing is different from mine.

The meme reflects a sense of dark humor among some Bogotanos following the city authoritys announcement Monday that residents would have to ration water as drought, fueled by El Nino, pushes reservoirs toward record lows.

The rationing came into effect Thursday morning. Bogota and dozens of surrounding towns have been divided into nine different zones with domestic running water cut off for 24 hours in each zone on a rotation that will reset every 10 days. The measures will affect approximately 9 million people.

There are contingency plans to ensure schools and hospitals have a continuous supply, authorities have said.

But, as The Simpsons meme suggests, some residents have been left wondering whether they might need to start cozying up to friends across town to access drinking water.

The measures are part of emergency plans introduced by the Colombian government and the citys mayor after reservoirs reached historically low levels.

The Chuza and San Rafael reservoirs, part of the Chingaza System that provides 70% of the citys drinking water, are at particularly critical positions, according to local authorities.

Lets not waste a drop of water in Bogota at this time, Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan said in a news conference Monday, adding, that will help us so that these restrictions can be lifted more quickly or reduced.

Galan called for a behavioral change that is sustainable over time and guarantees that water is enough for everyone, adding that some of the reservoirs are less than 20% capacity compared to historical averages for this time of year.

The San Rafael reservoir on the outskirts of Bogota, which is a source of drinking water for the city, is at very low levels due to the El Nino climate phenomenon, on April 5, 2024. - Ivan Valencia/AP

Its not unusual for cities in Latin America to face water crises. Bogota joins Mexico City to its northwest, which could also be on the brink of running out of water, as the combination of climate change, El Nino, geography and rapid urban development put immense strain on its water resources.

But this marks the first time in recent history that Bogota has been forced to implement water rationing measures.

Perched on a mountain plateau, Bogota is one of the highest capitals in the world at more than 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) above sea level. To its east, are the peaks of the Andes, to its west is a lush valley through which winds the Magdalena, Colombias largest river and a vital source of water.

Moisture from the tropical rainforests along the Magdalena rises up the mountain valleys and clashes with the colder temperatures at the top, generating rain.

As every Bogotano knows, rain is fairly common in the city, which relies heavily on it for its water needs.

Most cities around the world depend on aquifers for their water supplies. Bogota is different in that almost all our supply comes from surface waters like reservoirs, which are more susceptible to rain patterns, said Armando Sarmiento, an ecology professor at Bogotas Javeriana University.

Its this dependence on rain that makes Bogota particularly vulnerable to drought, Sarmiento told CNN.

Water level markers in the San Rafael reservoir. Mayor Carlos Galan announced that water rationing measures for Bogota would begin on April 11. - Fernando Vergara/AP

Since last year, the city has experienced long dry periods due to the impact of El Nino, according to local authorities.

El Nino is a natural climate pattern originating in the Pacific Ocean along the equator, which influences weather around the globe. In Colombia, it has fueled higher temperatures and lower rainfall.

In a country as politically divided as Colombia, the urgency of addressing El Nino is a rare point of consensus. The government issued a natural disaster decree in January to mobilize resources in an effort to combat its devastating effects, including wildfires and water stress.

Bogotas water rationing plans have been supported by the countrys president, who has historically had a testy relationship with the citys mayor.

Colombias ombudsman, a civil authority tasked with protecting civil and human rights, issued a statement on Tuesday saying that a long-term reliable water supply is a basic human right, and the environment ministry in February launched a campaign with the hashtag #ElNinoNoEsUnJuego (El Nino is not a game) to warn Colombians not to underestimate the crisis.

As global warming makes extreme weather such as heatwaves and drought more common and more severe, experts warn that the stress on cities water systems will only increase.

Colombias environment minister Susana Muhamad urged city authorities to draft long-term plans for dwindling water supplies.

We got to a point where we cant expect water to come down like it used to be if we dont respect the reservoirs natural supply cycle, if we dont respect waters natural cycle, she told reporters Monday. She called for a task force to limit Bogotas urban expansion towards natural areas.

Sarmiento, the ecologist, told CNN that while its hard to predict how the climate will evolve in the coming years, both the city and the country more broadly need to be better prepared for future crises at a much bigger scale.

In moments like this, everyone focuses on individual uses, like limiting ones shower, he said. But the issue is much bigger, he added, especially in Bogota which is also one of the busiest industrial areas of Colombia.

We need to re-think our water use as a society.

CNNs Heather Law and Ana Melgar contributed reporting.

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Palm Beach-led bill to allow some virtual meetings dies in Florida House of Representatives

The town's Lobbyist Mathew Forrest said that while the bill, which would've allowed government bodies to hold limited online meetings, garnered some support in the Florida Senate, opposition in the state's House of Representatives led to the bills demise.

A push by the Palm Beach Town Council to allow government bodies to hold limited online meetings died this past season in the Florida House of Representatives, but lobbyist Mathew Forrest told members they should be commended for the effort.

"I do think the Town's to be commended for having the idea," Forrest, a partner in the Ballard Partners lobbying firm, told the Town Council Tuesday.

Forrest said the bill's sponsors continually referred queries from interested parties to him, signaling that lawmakers and others recognized the town as the leader and force behind it.

"So, the town is definitely leading the forefront of this," he added.

Under current state law, members of a government body must be physically present in order to conduct public business. House Bill 157/ Senate Bill 894 would have allowed government bodies to conduct limited online meetings twice a year.

The bill had its origins in the Town Council's meeting last August. Members voiced concern that the requirements for in-person meetings could deter otherwise qualified candidates from running for office. They noted that a significant portion of residents reside elsewhere during the summer.

During that meeting, the Town Council approved a motion that allowed Forrest to work with then-Town Attorney John Randolph to draft what would become HB 157/SB 894.

Support from outside Palm Beach came quickly, Forrest said Tuesday, noting that the Senate bill was sponsored by state Sen. Jennifer Bradley, R-Fleming Island, and co-sponsored by Sen. Clay Yarborough, R-Jacksonville.

The House bill was sponsored by state Rep. Michael A. Caruso, a Republican whose jurisdiction includes Palm Beach.

While the bill found some traction in the Senate, Forrest said, it made little progress in the House.

"We could not get the bill moving in the House, there is still a lot of opposition to virtual meeting on the local level," he said. "A lot of them (Representatives) see it as, 'The pandemic's over, we're all in person now.'"

However, Forrest said that with time that opinion will likely change.

"As we get further away from that kind of thinking and get more into more of this (bill) is for flexibility ... flexibility for the (town) council but also flexibility for the residents," Forrest said.

Palm Beach may have a better chance next session if Caruso is reelected, said Forrest, noting that he would be considered a senior ranking representative.

"Nothing will start in Tallahassee until November, but most notably, it is the start of what I call the next two-year cycle. We'll have a new Speaker of the Florida House, we'll have a new Senate president, new committee chairs," Forrest said. "I'm proud to say if Rep. Caruso is reelected, he will be a senior ... which is usually the most influential time they have."

Diego Diaz Lasa is a journalist at the Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at dlasa@pbdailynews.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Palm Beach-led bill to grant virtual meeting dies in state legislature
Passenger kept groping woman on flight, quickly left once plane landed, feds say

A man who is now banned from flying with Alaska Airlines wouldnt stop groping a woman seated next to him on a flight from San Diego to Seattle in June, according to federal prosecutors.

Desmond D. Bostick, 25, of Federal Way, Washington, pleaded guilty on April 11 to assault with intent to commit a felony in relation to the incident, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Washington announced in a news release.

In doing so, he agreed he repeatedly touched the woman, who he didnt know, to arouse his sexual desires on the June 20 Alaska Airlines flight, according to his plea agreement filed in Seattle federal court.

Now a judge could sentence Bostick up to 10 years in prison, prosecutors said.

His court-appointed federal public defender, Dennis Carroll, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment from McClatchy News on Feb. 13.

When the plane landed in Seattle, Bostick quickly left, and the woman next to him immediately reported to a flight attendant that he assaulted her, according to a trial brief.

During the flight, Bostick kept touching the womans thigh and only stopped when other travelers walked by to use the bathroom, the trial brief says.

He used a blanket to hide his hand while touching her, according to the brief, which says the woman was too scared to speak, but repeatedly, and unsuccessfully, attempted to shift her body away from Bostick.

Bostick also grabbed her butt, twice, as she stood up to let another passenger exit and return to their window seat in the row, prosecutors said.

After the woman alerted flight attendants to what happened, authorities launched an investigation, according to the trial brief.

Alaska Airlines personnel provided Bosticks identity to a Port of Seattle Police Department officer, who found a photo of him on Facebook and showed it to the woman, the trial brief says. She confirmed Bostick was the man in the photo, according to the brief.

However, law enforcement couldnt find Bostick after he left the airport that day, according to prosecutors.

With his whereabouts unknown, Bostick was indicted on a charge of abusive sexual contact aboard the aircraft in September, prosecutors said, McClatchy News previously reported.

Several months later, the FBI found him on Feb. 9 and arrested him, according to prosecutors.

An Alaska Airlines spokesperson told McClatchy News on Feb. 13 that Bostick is no longer allowed to travel on Alaska or Horizon, a subsidiary of the Alaska Air Group.

Since Bostick agreed to plead guilty, prosecutors and his defense counsel will recommend that he be sentenced to nine months in federal prison, the attorneys office said.

U.S. District Judge Jamal N. Whitehead is not bound by the recommendation and will decide on Bosticks sentence at a hearing scheduled for July 18, according to the attorneys office.

Federal Way, where Bostick is from, is about a 10 mile drive northeast from Tacoma.

Delta mechanic reached under womans shirt as she appeared to sleep on flight, feds say

Mom, other passengers intervene when woman rubs 14-year-olds leg on flight, feds say

Cruise passenger asked to quiet down smashes cocktail glass in mans face, feds say

Off-duty cops restrain passenger groping woman, threatening others on flight, feds say
A Southern Utah University police vehicle is pictured in Cedar City on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Southern Utah University students were alerted Thursday morning, April 11, 2024, to the possibility of an active shooter and advised to stay home.

Southern Utah University students woke up to a campus alert Thursday morning notifying them to the possibility of an active shooter. Law enforcement spent hours searching and clearing buildings.

No shots were fired. No one was injured. No active shooter has been located.

A campus alert had described a possible suspect, but later the university said its highly unlikely that the possible suspect was involved in the threat. By midday, the university had announced there was no longer an active threat on campus and law enforcement was investigating the origin of the initial report.

When the Deseret News further inquired whether or not the call was believed to be an incident of swatting or not, a university spokesperson said there was an active investigation going on.

A public affairs specialist from FBIs Salt Lake City office said the office was aware of the incident and was working with its partners on it. The Cedar City Police Department did not immediately return a phone call from the Deseret News.

We are grateful to SUU Police and the many local law enforcement agencies for their swift response and superb coordination, prioritizing safety on our campus and in our community, said SUU President Mindy Benson. Thank you to all who were an important part of the successful resolution of the situation.

Heres a closer look at what happened at SUU and what Chris Bertram, a former deputy chief with the Unified Police Department, told the Deseret News about the incident.

The timeline

On Thursday morning, SUU sent out a campus alert to students saying that the school had an unconfirmed report of an active shooter. The campus community was advised to avoid traveling to campus until further notice and the school was locked down.

The university had been aware of a suspicious phone call alerting the school to an active shooter. The school sent out an alert describing a suspect as a white male aged 20-to-25 years old with long hair, a black cap, black shades and a green T-shirt.

Iron County School District said that all schools in the Cedar City area were on secure action. This meant that the doors to these schools locked  no one was allowed in or out  and classes continued uninterrupted.

By 10:06 a.m., the university sent out another alert saying it that had received reports of hearing noises that sounded like shots fired at the Science Building. Law enforcement began searching the buildings and later confirmed that no shots were fired.

Soon, Iron County School District lifted its secure action. Everything back to normal, it was a precautionary measure. There were never threats made to ICSD schools, the district said.

Back over at SUU, classes and activities for the rest of the day were canceled and law enforcement searched and cleared campus buildings for hours. By 1:10 p.m., the university sent out an alert saying all remaining buildings were cleared and search, and it was safe for the campus community to leave the buildings they were in.

SUU Police Chief Carlos Medina told KSL that officials were taking it seriously until we find out through our investigation that it was a hoax.

When asked whether or not the response was efficient, Bertram said its important to take into account that its a large university campus and Cedar City has more limited resources than whats available on the Wasatch Front.

That university is a large campus and unless you have specific information to a specific building or specific area of campus, you may be left with the fact that youre going to have to clear the entire campus to just make sure that there is, in fact, no threat, Bertram said. He later added that there are several difficult decisions that have to be made in instances like this  such as whether or not they should call the state SWAT team out of Salt Lake City and have them drive down as quickly as they can.

In the case of SUU, there were reports of shots fired at the Science Building, which law enforcement determined to not have happened.

Bertram said he thought it was responsible that law enforcement ensured that the campus was safe. Once a campus is searched and clear, Bertram said police can be more sure that there is not a potential threat on campus.

After an incident like this, Bertram emphasized the importance of making sure that police units and other law enforcement agencies are trained on how to respond, especially in the case of a threat that could lead to injuries or deaths. In addition to individual units training, Bertram said officers should know how to coordinate with other agencies in case they end up working together to resolve an incident.

Bertram said agencies can do an after-action report and analyze whether or not they responded quickly enough, find gaps in their response and determine if they have a plan in place to call the necessary resources down if theres another threat.

The dangers of swatting

Its unknown at this point if Thursdays call was a swatting incident or not.

Swatting is a false emergency report where a person calls a law enforcement dispatch center and makes a false report about a critical incident.

When police get a call about an emergency report, Bertram said they have to take it seriously. Swatting calls are just as dangerous as anything, and mostly because, as law enforcement, we are expected to respond when we get this information in a very quick tactical manner.

Depending on the false critical incident that a person makes, making a false emergency report can be a misdemeanor or even a second or third degree felony. These kinds of fraudulent reports result in law enforcement quickly mobilizing to address a threat thats not present. It can divert resources away from areas of real critical need  and especially for rural communities, this can strain resources.

Its unclear just how prevalent swatting is since until the FBI started a database in 2023, these incidents were not tracked annually.

K-12 School Shooting Database tracked the number of swatting incidents that have happened in U.S. schools (K-12) since January 2023. There were more than 700 recorded incidents in 2023. So far in 2024, the database has tracked 76.

Gov. Spencer Cox signed a bill earlier this year addressing false reports of emergencies at schools. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Ryan D. Wilcox, R-Ogden, and Sen. Don L. Ipson, R-St. George, and it makes it a second degree felony to falsely report emergencies at schools in certain circumstances.

At the bills committee hearing earlier this year, Wilcox recounted an incident in 2023 where a person later determined to be a foreign actor had claimed there was an active shooter who had killed multiple children  multiple schools throughout the state were impacted.

We had a good response for the most part, Wilcox said. Our officers didnt do what we saw in some of the disasters around the country. They responded quickly. They were coordinated. We learned a lot that day. A lot of what we learned was where our holes are.

Its very difficult to prevent swatting calls from happening, Bertram said. On the other hand, I think one of the things that we can do is make sure police officers are trained and that they keep that strategic open vision of what could be going on.
President Joe Biden, under intense pressure since the earliest days of his administration to stem the record pace of unlawful immigration, said he is considering taking unilateral action to close the nation's border with Mexico if circumstances warrant such a move.

"We're examining whether or not I have that power," Biden told Univision in an interview Tuesday at the White House. "There's no guarantee that I have that power all by myself without legislation.

"Some have suggested I should just go ahead and try it, and if I get shut down by the court, I get shut down by the court. But we're trying to work that right now."

President Joe Biden, shown visiting a Border Patrol station in Brownsville in February, said this week that he is considering taking unilateral action to close the nation's border with Mexico if circumstances warrant such a move.

The comments to journalist Enrique Acevedo come as the Democratic president is gearing up for a rematch with former President Donald Trump, who is vowing to reinstate his own hard-line immigration policies if voters return him to the White House after the Nov. 5 election.

Biden has blamed Trump for scuttling what had been touted as a bipartisan U.S. Senate bill to address the border crisis by adding 1,500 Customs and Border Protection agents and 4,300 asylum officers. Trump urged congressional Republicans to vote against the measure to deprive Biden of a legislative victory in an election year.

When Biden and Trump in early March were holding competing events on the same day along the Texas-Mexico border, the president called out his predecessor for derailing the measure.

"Both houses supported this legislation until someone came along and said, 'Don't do that, it will benefit the incumbent,'" Biden said in Brownsville as Trump and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott were in Eagle Pass, about 300 miles away. "That's a hell of a way to do business in America for such a serious problem."

Trump returned fire in kind, saying of the border crisis: "This is a Joe Biden invasion," a term Texas Republicans have used to describe the surge in migrants and to provide cover for the state government implementing its own controversial border security measures.

Democrats and rights groups have warned against painting asylum-seekers  many of whom are escaping violence and poverty in Venezuela, Ecuador, El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Cuba, according to the city of El Paso  as invaders as it could trigger violence against them.

In 2019, a white, 21-year-old gunman drove more than 700 miles from his Dallas-area home to a Walmart in El Paso to kill Hispanic residents in a racist attack. Before killing 23 people and injuring nearly two dozen others, he released a manifesto online warning of an "invasion" by Hispanics in Texas.

"Texas grieves for the people of El Paso today," Abbott said just after the shooting in describing what he called one of the deadliest days in the state's history.

Border security, immigration rise as top election issues

Since the border bill's demise, such Republicans as Abbott and Texas' U.S. Sen. John Cornyn have argued forcefully that Biden currently has ample legal authority to combat unlawful immigration but has declined to use it.

"The laws on the books are roughly the same as they were when President Trump was in office, but with dramatically different results," Cornyn told reporters last week. "I believe there is no will, no desire on the part of the administration to actually enforce the law."

Even as he mulls taking executive action at the border, Biden said in the Univision interview that additional legislation is needed to gain control of the border, which has emerged as a leading issue nationally ahead of the presidential election.

"We don't have enough officers to even interview people to discern whether they have a legitimate fear or concern to qualify to come in," he said, emphasizing the need for additional asylum officers. "We don't have enough people at the border. We don't have enough machinery that we can detect fentanyl and illegal drugs coming in."

A poll released in late March by the University of Chicago's National Opinion Research Center and The Associated Press found that while most Americans in both parties agree that more border patrol agents and asylum officers are needed at the border, nearly 7 in 10 disapprove of Biden's handling of the immigration issue.

Immigration has been an especially problematic issue for the president in Texas, which has the nation's longest border with Mexico. While Biden is not expected to carry Texas in November, the ongoing border crisis could harm his party's chances in competitive state and congressional districts in South Texas where Republicans are seeking to make gains.

Despite Republicans pointing to Trump's approach to immigration as a way to criticize his successor, the former president also expressed frustration with Congress for not giving him more power to act.

A Border Patrol officer searches along the banks of the Rio Grande in Brownsville on Feb. 28. President Joe Biden has blamed Donald Trump for scuttling a Senate bill to address the border crisis that would have added 1,500 Customs and Border Protection agents and 4,300 asylum officers.

In late March and early April 2019, Trump threatened to seal the border with Mexico to stem the flow of migrants crossing into the United States. And just as Biden this year has sought to cajole members from the opposite party in Congress into action, so did an exasperated Trump five years ago this month.

"Congress must get together and immediately eliminate the loopholes at the Border!" Trump wrote in an April 3, 2019, post on Twitter. "If no action, Border, or large sections of Border, will close. This is a National Emergency!"

White House aides eventually dissuaded Trump from taking action to close the border at the time.

Less than a year later, however, Trump ordered the border to be closed to nonessential travel in an effort to contain the burgeoning coronavirus pandemic from further spreading into the United States. The order also included the nation's border with Canada.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Joe Biden may shut down border, but still wants Congress to act
Pro-Israel Republicans See What They Want To See In Trump's Skepticism Of Gaza War

WASHINGTON  Republican senators promise they havent heard about former President Donald Trumps cosmetic concerns about Israels invasion of Gaza.

And if they have, maybe he meant something totally different? Maybe his concerns were wholly correct? Or even mostly wrong?

HuffPost asked nine GOP senators earlier this week about Trumps comments, in which he insisted images of the war were costing Israel support. Their responses  or lack thereof  speak to the creativity with which GOP lawmakers address disagreements with the de facto leader of their party, even eight years after he emerged as a major political force.

In a late March interview with the right-wing Israeli outlet, Israel Hayom, Trump urged Israel to finish up your war, because the images of death and destruction in Gaza are costing Israel a lot of support. More than 33,000 Palestinians have died in Israels invasion, and the U.S. government believes the region is facing a famine.

Given a chance to walk back his remarks, Trump doubled down in an early April interview on the Hugh Hewitt Show, a popular conservative radio program.

Hewitt asked Trump twice whether he is still standing 100% with Israel, and Trump did not provide a clear answer.

Im not sure that Im loving the way theyre doing it, because youve got to have victory, he replied. You have to have a victory, and its taking a long time.

Trump criticizes Jewish Americans who don't reward his pro-Israel record with their votes. But he has not walked back concerns about how Israel is "losing the PR war." Megan Varner/Getty Images

Trumps criticism of Israel is largely about public relations rather than civilian casualties: He says its government is releasing too many photos and videos of its bombing runs, and needs to find a way to wrap the war up so it doesnt look bad. At the same time, he continues to campaign on his record of virtually unprecedented support for Israeli government policies, such as his recognition of the countrys annexation of the Golan Heights  and lash out at Jewish Americans for not supporting him in greater numbers.

Still, Trumps comments to Hewitt and Israel Hayom are notable because of how different they sound from Republican members of Congresss full-throated support for Israels war.

Of course, precious few Republican members of Congress want to publicly break with Trump.

"I think thats his way of expressing that he hopes Israel can win and get this thing over with," Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) said. Bill Clark/Getty Images

He Really Meant Something Different

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) is one of the Senates most outspoken defenders of Israel, including its prosecution of the war in Gaza. He has said that the Palestinian militant group Hamas, whose Oct. 7 terror attack on Israel provoked the Gaza war, is 100% to blame for the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians, and called on President Joe Biden to stop criticizing the Israeli government.

But he was unfazed by Trumps remarks on the topic, construing them as essentially uncritical of Israel.

I think thats his way of expressing that he hopes Israel can win and get this thing over with, Rubio told HuffPost. He was the most pro-Israel president of my lifetime.

The bottom line is, theyve gotta kill all the Hamas members.Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.)

Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) took a similar tack, claiming that Trump had clarified his remarks.

Youre going back two interviews, he told HuffPost. He had an interview since then that modified his original statement.

Grassley appeared to be referring to Trumps Monday interview with Wayne Root on Real Americas Voice, a right-wing streaming show. In that conversation, Trump emphasized his pro-Israel record and argued that U.S. Jews who vote for Biden do not love Israel, but did not walk back his original comments about Israels war making the country look bad.

Likewise, in remarks to reporters on Wednesday, Trump claimed Biden had totally abandoned Israel, and lambasted Jews who dont support him, but did not address Israels conduct.

What Trump Comments?

Sen. Rick Scott, the other Republican senator from Florida, declined to engage when asked to respond to Trumps view that Israel is losing the PR war.

The bottom line is, theyve gotta kill all the Hamas members, he replied.

What about Trumps remarks on the war hurting Israels image?

Theyve gotta kill all the Hamas members as fast as they can, he repeated.

Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) claimed that he hadnt heard what Trump said.

I have no comments about that, he said. I dont know what he said.

Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) also said he was unfamiliar with the remarks and would not address a summary of them without seeing them himself. Id have to hear it in context, he said.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) simply declined to comment without saying anything more.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) said that he does not question the speed with which the war needs to be concluded, but that it is OK to urge "prudence." Tom Williams/Getty Images

Polite Disagreement

Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah), the GOP Senate conferences most vocal Trump critic, responded to the question by articulating his own pro-Israel perspective.

Israel is doing what any nation would do, which is to protect themselves from attack, and they obviously want to do that as quickly as they possibly can with as few civilian casualties as possible, he said.

Pressed on whether Trump might be deliberately backing away from Israel, Romney replied, I dont worry about what President Trump has to say about it.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) disagreed with Trumps view that Israel needs to finish up the war, because of how it is hurting the countrys image.

I wouldnt say that. I mean, my view is that we ought to stand with our ally Israel. Do we want to urge them to be prudent? Yeah, of course. And to avoid the unnecessary loss of civilian life? Yeah sure, he said. But lets not be holier than thou. I mean, weve killed a lot of civilians in numerous wars  At the end of the day, theyve got to protect themselves, and theyve got to root out Hamas.

Hawley went on to argue that Biden is only pressuring Israel now to appease the increasingly vocal, frankly, pro-Hamas wing of their party.

Who might Trump be appeasing then with his notes of ambivalence?

I think he and Bidens positions are pretty different on this, he said. But all I can say is that I think we should stand with Israel.

Rand Stands Alone

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) told HuffPost that he was unfamiliar with Trumps comments.

But the libertarian-leaning senator, known for his skepticism of American entanglements with foreign countries, took the opportunity, unprompted, to express his theoretical support for conditioning U.S. aid to Israel, or any other country.

Aid we give to any country, including aid we give to allies, should be conditional, he said.

Aid we give to any country, including aid we give to allies, should be conditional.Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.)

As an example, Paul said that Trump did nothing wrong when he pressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in 2019 to investigate Bidens efforts to get a Ukrainian prosecutor fired while serving as vice president, and another item of interest to Trump, at a time when Ukraine was seeking U.S. military aid. Trumps phone call with Zelenskyy led House Democrats to impeach him on the grounds that he had leveraged U.S. aid to secure personal favors.

Referring to the 2019 impeachment, Paul said, I said at the time and I still continue to say that all of our aid should be quid pro quo, it all should be conditional.

Returning to the subject of Israel, Paul said, The war isnt just theirs to execute. Its ours to comment on. And there comes a time in a war when theres a possibility that as more civilians die, you create more terrorists in reaction to that interaction.

Paul would not say whether he feels that the time has come to demand more of Israel.
Rare photos capture spectacular behavior of ocean giants in Australia. See them race

Despite being the largest animal on the planet, blue whales maintain a life of secrecy, spending their days in the deep, open ocean.

The opportunity to see a blue whale comes once-in-a-lifetime for most, but for Peter Gill, blue whales are his life.

Gill runs Blue Whale Study, a nonprofit organization studying blue whales and their feeding habitat off the southern coast of Australia.

He shares photos of his days in the office on social media, including sightings of oceanic birds, dolphins and blue whales smaller cousin, the humpback whale.

In March, despite two decades on the sea, Gill saw a blue whale behavior that left him shocked.

As a researcher, every so often you are blessed with a truly awesome experience watching animals, he wrote in a March 29 Facebook post. Last week during an aerial survey, we found three blue whales engaged in racing behavior, in which a presumed adult female is pursued at high speed by two competing males, prospective mates.

A female blue whale was pursued by two males, researchers said.

Gill said he has only seen the behavior once before while blue whales were in Australian waters during upwelling, when cold, nutrient-rich water rises toward the surface of the ocean, in 2003.

The frequent changes of pace and direction were clearly dictated by the female, and males did their best to stay close to her, while trying to outpace and physically displace each other, Gill said.

The whales pair up before they migrate away from the Australian feeding grounds up toward Indonesia, Gill told ABC, but said it is more like full on combat than some kind of mating dance.

Theyre shouldering each other aside and hitting each other with their tails a bit, Gill told the outlet. The females just out in front setting the pace  she slows down when she wants to have a rest and the two boys both slow down too and trail behind her, and then shell power off again and off they go. Presumably shes going, OK, boys  whos it going to be?

The female blue whale set the pace, matched by the males as they fought for her affections, researchers said.

Blue whales can reach 100 feet long and weigh up to 330,000 pounds, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The ocean giants live in all oceans except the Arctic, NOAA says, and migrate seasonally between summers in cold waters and winters near the equator.

Gill said he and his team circled above the whales for about 15 minutes before leaving them to continue their racing.

It was a spectacular display of massive power and grace, one of the great sights in nature, he said.

Blue Whale Study is based in Narrawong on the southeastern coast of Australia, about a 200-mile drive west of Melbourne.

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The University of Texas layoffs and closing of the Division of Campus and Community Engagement have garnered national attention since April 2. But close to home, Texas liberal politicians and rights groups have come forward both strongly against the decision, while conservative leaders have applauded the approach.

What happened at UT?

At least 60 staff members who previously had a DEI-related position before Senate Bill 17, a law that went into effect Jan. 1 banning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion offices and employees who fulfill those functions, were laid off effective in 90 days or more April 2. The Texas NAACP President Gary Bledsoe said in a statement April 10 that they have confirmed 66 individuals have received notice of termination, but expect the number is larger.

An email from President Jay Hartzell around 1 p.m. that day said that the division, previously the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, was also closing as the university sought to reduce duplication in their programming.

More: Sources: UT lays off at least 60 employees previously in DEI-related position, closes DCCE

Students who are against proposed legislation to ban DEI in colleges and universities gathered for a sit-in at the capitol to protect DEI on Thursday, March 23, 2023. Texas Legislature is looking to gut diversity, equity and inclusion programs in colleges and universities in the state.

The university would not confirm how many programs or positions have been eliminated.

UT Dallas April 9 announced it was closing its Office of Campus Resources and Support and laying off about 20 staff members. Bledsoe said at a press conference April 10 that he worries more universities will follow.

Both announcements came shortly after Sen. Brandon Creighton's letter to university chancellors, including of the UT System, urging them to comply with the law and alerting them to hearings in May where universities will have to assert their compliance.

More: 'We did not see this coming': UT staff, students react to layoffs, DCCE closure after SB17

Political reactions

In a statement April 3 to the Statesman, Creighton said the Texas Senate Committee on Education is expected to "make sure that all individuals are valued equally" and that DEI has been "a failed experiment that threatens free speech" and detract from research.

"The recent actions by the University of Texas demonstrate that they are taking steps to ensure compliance with SB 17the strongest ban on DEI in the nation," Creighton said in his statement to the Statesman. "While any decision to release staff members is a difficult one, the efficiencies gained, and reinvestment into recruiting a diverse blend students and professors, based upon merit, are of the highest priority."

House Speaker Dade Phelan took to X April 2 to state that the actions at UT Austin are "proof that the Legislatures actions are working."

"Todays action by the University of Texas at Austin is a direct result of the law the House passed last year to prohibit DEI initiatives at our higher education institutionslegislation I was proud to pass in the Texas House," Phelan posted.

Phelan said DEI programs were ineffective, and "Texas must cultivate an education system that celebrates diversity of thought while also ensuring every student, regardless of their background, has an equal opportunity to succeed and compete in our global workforce."

In an interview, Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, a longtime member of the Higher Education Committee in the Texas House, said the anti-DEI push from legislators is political, distracting and "a step backwards."

"These programs were not about a chance to cut the line, these were programs to allow them in the line," Howard added.

Howard also pointed Texas's automatic enrollment law, a law that requires 75% of UT's class to consist of auto-enrolled top Texas high school students, now the top 6% of their class, as a "purposeful" way the legislature was trying to support diversity. Now, she said, the legislature is using "its financial muscles to force these changes that are ill conceived."

"This is to me more about political rhetoric and following a national agenda that emphasizes the ridiculous word of wokeness to talk about diverse populations," Howard said.

SB 17 hearings held by the Senate Committee on Education are expected to start in May. Until then, groups like Texas AAUP, Texas NAACP and the Texas Legislative Black Caucus said they will continue monitoring the changes and fight for change.

"We will continue to monitor this situation closely and work tirelessly to address systemic issues that perpetuate injustice and inequality in our education system," said the Texas Legislative Black Caucus in their statement April 3. "The TxLBC will continue speaking truth to power and fighting to protect the freedoms of all Texans.

How did rights organizations react?

In a joint statement April 2, Texas NAACP and Texas AAUP expressed "urgent concern" for UT's decision, writing that all staff were now in roles that were compliant with SB 17, and calling for the university to be transparent about the terminations and the impact.

"Given that DCCE had already been modified to comply with SB 17, its dismantling his appears to be an inappropriate and unnecessary response to SB17," the statement said.

The terminations, the statement said, are "potential attacks on First Amendment freedoms." The groups accused the university of retaliating against "their previous association with DEI and speech" and of "racial and ethnic discrimination" in their cuts.

Austin Justice Coalition, an organization advocating for justice in Austin, also released a statement standing "in vehement condemnation" of University of Texas's actions, calling for them to reinstate staff positions, programs like Monarch and the Multicultural Engagement Center, which had also closed due to SB 17 in January to students' surprise.

"The University of Texas boasts this progressive haven of the south and 'What here changes the world,'" said Chas Moore, the founder and co-executive director of the coalition, in an interview. "For them just to buckle so quickly is just really telling of who the institution really is and what they're really about."

Nelson Linder, the president of Austin NAACP, said in an interview the local branch is working on "direct action" to protest the administration's decision. Linder said this was "the most racist" action he's seen in a long time.

"We're very, very serious," he said, urging people to get involved and pressure the university. "We need to remind them this state is for everybody."

Sarah Kate Ellis, the president and CEO of GLAAD, a non-profit focused on LGBTQ+ advocacy, called SB 17 "a dangerous setback for LGBTQ students."

The Deputy Directory of Equality Texas, Brad Pritchett, said in a statement that the impact of the bill will be long-term.

"This push from Texas officials to extinguish the diversity of our marquee universities will harm Texas for generations," Pritchett's statement said. "The integrity of our Texas institutions is being corroded by a divisive campaign to erase whole communities from our state universities.

UT did not respond to the Statesman's request for comment.

"I recognize that strong feelings have surrounded SB 17 from the beginning and will shape many Longhorns' perceptions of these measures," Hartzell wrote in his email April 2. "It is important that we respect the perspectives and experiences of our fellow Longhorns as the changes we are announcing today take effect. It is also important that this continues to be a welcoming, supportive community for all."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: SB 17: Rights group, politicians react to UT layoffs, DCCE closing
Alligators dont have a sense of humor, but theres something undeniably goofy about one hanging out under a Honda in a Florida driveway as if no one will notice.

It happened Tuesday, April 9, in the Oasis subdivision of North Port, about an 85-mile drive south of Tampa.

North Port police shared a photo on Facebook, showing the alligator peeking out from behind the left rear wheel.

Do you see it? ... We initially got a 9-1-1 call from someone in the area for a 5-6 foot alligator under their vehicle in their driveway, North Port police told McClatchy News in an email.

Due to a gas leak in the area and the road there being shut down, it took our conservation (officer) a little bit to get there.

Details of how the owner reacted were not released, but nobody got hurt, police said

A state-licensed nuisance alligator trapper was sent by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to pull the gator out from under the car. It was relocated, officials said.

Police say they shared the photo as a warning: April is the start of alligator courtship season in Florida.

Its that time of year when gators are on the prowl, so keep an eye out, police wrote in the post. Florida Rule #1  If youre near a pond or river theres a good chance youre not alone.

Wow, death roll. Video shows two Florida alligators ripping at each other in river

Alligator crawls into Florida home and settles in front of refrigerator, photos show

9-foot alligator taking the expressway is pulled over by Florida trooper, photos show
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee said on Thursday it would hold a hearing next week with members of an expert panel that released a report in February criticizing Boeing's safety culture and calling for significant improvements.

The hearing next Wednesday comes as the U.S. planemaker has been grappling with a full-blown safety crisis that has undermined its reputation following a Jan. 5 mid-air panel blowout on a new 737 MAX 9. It has since undergone a management shakeup, U.S. regulators have put curbs on its production and its aircraft deliveries fell by half in March.

The committee will hear from three panel members, including Tracy Dillinger, a NASA expert on safety culture, Javier de Luis, an aeronautics expert at MIT, and Najmedin Meshkati, a University of Southern California professor and expert on aviation safety.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, the committee chair, said on Wednesday she was impressed with the expert witness panel report and wanted to hear from members first before she called the Federal Aviation Administration for a future hearing.

Boeing declined to comment on the hearing.

I would happily fly any Boeing': Experts say travelers should feel safe flying

The exterior of Boeing headquarters is seen on March 25, 2024 in Arlington, Virginia.

The panel's report was directed by Congress after fatal 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia in 2018 and Ethiopia in 2019 that killed 346 people, including panel member De Luis' sister in the Ethiopian crash.

It criticized Boeing's safety culture on a number of fronts and found "a lack of awareness of safety-related metrics at all levels of the organization."

The panel also cited an "inadequate and confusing implementation of the components of a positive safety culture."

The panel was appointed by the FAA in early 2023 and said that within six months Boeing should review therecommendations "and develop an action plan."

The FAA in February ordered Boeing to address systemic quality-control issues within 90 days after an audit found fault with the company's manufacturing processes.

The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations will hear testimony later in the day next Wednesday from a Boeing whistleblower and company engineer Sam Salehpour who claims it dismissed safety and quality concerns in the production of 787 and 777 jets.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, the panel's chair, said Salehpour will testify on what the senator called "Boeings broken safety culture." Blumenthal has also asked outgoing CEO Dave Calhoun to testify at a future hearing.

Boeing responded this week to Salehpour, saying the company is fully confident in the 787, adding that the claims "are inaccurate and do not represent the comprehensive work Boeing has done to ensure the quality and long-term safety of the aircraft."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Boeing safety culture to be scrutinized in Senate hearings
Travis Entenman stood on the banks of the Big Sioux River in central Sioux Falls on an early April afternoon, watching the future flow.

High winds swept through Falls Park, the citys namesake, as he spoke of downtown development and a master plan for the park that will showcase a stretch of the 419-mile-long tributary that weaves through South Dakotas largest city.

Im hopeful that we can get the river to a place that the whole community can be proud of, said Entenman, managing director of Friends of the Big Sioux River, a nonprofit that works to protect and restore the river and its watershed. I think were trending in the right direction, but theres a lot of work to do.

The Big Sioux River is a major depository of waste materials from for Smithfield Foods, which slaughters nearly 20,000 hogs a day and processes a daily flow of 3 million gallons of wastewater.

Much attention has been paid to high levels of E. coli bacteria that make parts of the Big Sioux unsafe not just for drinking water but recreational uses, primarily the result of agriculture and livestock operations upstream.

But there are also concerns with water pollution from hazardous waste tied to the citys meatpacking legacy. Looming directly to the north as Entenman unfurled his vision was Smithfield Foods, the sprawling pork slaughterhouse formerly known as John Morrell.

Its hard to discuss the health of the Big Sioux River in these parts without mentioning Smithfield, which slaughters nearly 20,000 hogs a day and processes a daily flow of 3 million gallons of wastewater, containing varying levels of toxic materials.

How much waste does the processing plant dump into the Big Sioux? According to the Environmental Protection Agencys most recent Toxic Release Inventory, which uses 2022 data, Smithfield ranked first nationally among 1,671 facilities within the food sector for total releases, with 4.9 million pounds.

Smithfield ranked seventh nationally among non-poultry animal slaughtering facilities for the amount of nitrate compounds released. The TRI tracks the waste management of toxic chemicals that may pose a threat to human health and the environment.

Ultraviolet light shines over treated wastewater at Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023. This state-of-the-art process disinfects the wastewater of any leftover bacteria used in earlier treatment processes before it is released into the Big Sioux River.

Treatment facility at Smithfield reduces waste

The good news is that conditions have changed since 2022, partly due to pressure placed upon Sioux Falls fourth-largest employer to curtail its toxic waste.

Smithfield went operational with a new $45 million wastewater treatment facility in May 2023, reducing the amount of nitrate compounds released into the river.

The company's nitrate discharge to the Big Sioux River was 47% lower in 2023 than it was in 2022, said Ray Atkinson, senior director of external communications for Smithfield, which is based in Virginia and owned by Hong Kong-based WH Group Limited.

"The new state-of-the-art wastewater project reinforces Smithfield's proactive approach to implementing sustainable systems that improve environmental quality and benefit the community," Atkinson said in a statement to News Watch.

"The $45 million investment we have made in Sioux Falls is one of the largest infrastructure projects to have a direct impact on water quality in the Big Sioux River and has significantly reduced nutrient discharges and improved water quality in the Big Sioux River basin."

The update was tied to a permit renewal in 2020 that signaled a new chapter in government regulation and public scrutiny of the slaughterhouse. Smithfield has been fined for ammonia and nitrate dumping over the past few decades but avoided significant action from state or federal authorities.

In addition to basic environmental concerns, influence plays a role.

Downtown Sioux Falls enhancements such as the Steel District and East Bank show developers are regarding the Big Sioux River as a valuable resource rather than an eyesore, which means more expectation of oversight.

I think the general public is starting to pay more attention to water issues, which helps turn the tide, said Entenman. Theres also increased money in development going on in central Sioux Falls. People are putting millions and millions of dollars on the banks of the Big Sioux because they see it as a benefit for the community. And they don't want to live next to a polluted river.

Smithfield fined for toxic releases

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) fined Smithfield $53,382 in 2018 for violations of its discharge permit stemming from a wastewater treatment failure. The breakdown allowed exceedingly high levels of ammonia  at one point more than 20 times the state-allowed daily limit  into the Big Sioux River.

Smithfield was also fined $44,000 in 2011 for consistent violations of permit limits, including 26 ammonia release violations in 2010.

Those penalties continued a trend of sanctions that environmental groups viewed as proverbial slaps on the wrist for a multinational company that reported $14.4 billion in revenue in 2023.

Though the Big Sioux River typically has enough volume to dilute the effects of toxic waste, violations of ammonia limits always raise red flags, said Jay Gilbertson, manager for the East Dakota Water Development District, which promotes conservation and proper management of water resources.

Ammonia is the nitrogen compound that gives everyone the heebie-jeebies, because it can be very toxic very quickly, Gilbertson said. If you get a big ammonia release, all the fish float to the surface and it looks really, really bad.

Ammonia can be mitigated by adding oxygen to convert it to nitrate, which is less toxic but still potentially damaging. Excess amounts of nitrogen can cause an overgrowth of plants and algae and can be harmful to infants and pregnant women if ingested by blocking the bloods ability to carry oxygen.

A staff member from East Dakota Water Development District measures the Big Sioux River for temperature, dissolved oxygen and conductivity at the Cliff Avenue bridge just downstream from Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls in 2012.

New permit includes nitrate limits

The problem with Smithfields treatment system until recently was that, even with conversion, massive amounts of ammonia lead to troublesome levels of nitrates.

The EPAs safety standard for nitrates in drinking water is 10 milligrams per liter.

Before its new wastewater treatment plant was operational, Smithfields nitrate dumping levels were well over 100 (milligrams per liter), frequently over 200 and at times approaching 300, said Gilbertson.

Those numbers, combined with earlier ammonia infractions and EPA reports, finally forced action. After two decades of having its permit with the state administratively continued every five years, meaning DANR guidelines stayed the same, the slaughterhouse finally faced a bona fide permit renewal in 2020.

Under the old permit, originally issued in 2000, there was no daily effluent limit for dumping nitrate into the Big Sioux. Smithfield was required to monitor and report levels of discharge, similar to how the Sioux Falls Water Reclamation Plant currently operates.

"The (Toxic Release Inventory) numbers would come out each year and people would say, 'Oh my God,' and that draws attention," said Gilbertson. "Smithfield's counter was to say, 'Look, we're doing exactly what the state has required us to do. Yes, we're a big red dot on the TRI, but that big red dot is in full compliance with our state-issued permits.'"

A tour group comprised of Argus Leader and Smithfield Foods staff look at wastewater lagoons during a tour of the meatpacker's new wastewater treatment facility at Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023. Sewage is cycled between the five lagoons, each holding up to 1 million gallons of wastewater, which converts the unwanted nitrate compounds present in the wastewater into nitrogen gas, a cleaner emission which is not deposited into the Big Sioux River.

New treatment system unveiled

The new permit, which took effect July 1, 2020, gave Smithfield three years to get in compliance with an effluent limit for nitrates. That limit, which is currently in place, is a maximum of 50 milligrams per liter for a 30-day average and 88 mg/L daily.

Smithfield made its wastewater treatment plant upgrades to meet the new effluent limits by July 1, 2023. The new system takes the nitrates that were drawn from ammonia and uses a denitrifying system to biologically convert them to nitrogen gas, which is much less harmful.

Data from the EPAs Enforcement and Compliance History Online (ECHO) shows that hazardous waste from the slaughterhouse has stayed below required limits since that time.

Atkinson told News Watch that Smithfield is currently operating at or below 40 milligrams per liter for nitrates on a monthly average and that the company's ammonia discharge has been reduced by about 60%.

Dana Munyon, a public affairs specialist with DANR, confirmed that Smithfield has met the compliance schedule deadlines as required in the permit and no effluent violations of ammonia-nitrate have been reported during the current permit cycle."

Smithfield moves discharge point

Another condition of Smithfields new permit was to move its discharge point, which was located above the diversion channel on the Big Sioux River. That segment of the river is classified for the use of domestic drinking water, which means stricter standards.

Smithfield moved the pipe approximately 150 yards downstream, releasing into a segment of the river that doesnt have the domestic drinking water designation, allowing for the nitrate limits that DANR established.

Atkinson points out that there were no drinking water intakes in the area of the original discharge point, "so there were no potential drinking water contamination issues prior to the discharge point being moved."

During the permit process, Gilbertson argued unsuccessfully for DANR to treat the waters as a domestic water supply and set the limit at 10 milligrams per liter.

"We believe that it's irresponsible to presume that just because the effluent does not technically exceed the established water quality standard that there is no adverse and harmful impact," he wrote during public comment. "The cumulative effect of the impact of this facility, along with all of the other permitted and unpermitted discharges in the Big Sioux River, will continue the long-term degradation of this critical water resource."

'Take a shower or wash yourself off'

Water testing by Friends of the Big Sioux River in 2023 showed that nitrate levels continue to rise gradually in the Big Sioux River but remain within the safe levels set by the EPA through the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Sioux Falls residents use an average of more than 22 million gallons of water a day, just 3% of which comes from Big Sioux River surface water and is treated by the citys wastewater plant.

Of greater concern are elevated levels of E. coli and total suspended solids in the river that come from upstream agricultural operations, livestock manure and stormwater runoff.

Most of the river that flows through Sioux Falls has a beneficial use designation that includes immersion recreation (swimming) and limited contact recreation (kayaking). But water testing does not support those activities in the segments upstream, at, or downstream of Smithfield Foods wastewater treatment plant, according to the DANR.

During the public comment portion of the permit process, a woman from Sioux Falls mentioned that her husbands kayak had tipped over in the river and who knows what kind of toxins he was exposed to. Its a legitimate concern, said Gilbertson, but not insurmountable for those who want to explore the waters.

If you want to kayak down the river, you can do that, he said. Your skin is not going to start to dissolve. But the odds are pretty good that theres bacteria in the water, so once you get out, take a shower and wash yourself off. If your kayak tips and you get a mouthful, rinse your mouth out as quickly as possible.

Water testing samples help Friends of the Big Sioux River measure levels of toxic materials in different segments of the river. These samples were drawn from the area near Falls Park in Sioux Falls.

More enforcement could be needed

Those arent ideal conditions for a burgeoning city hoping to highlight its natural resources as part of downtown revitalization, which could lead to more focus on environmental accountability. Smithfield's current permit expires on June 30, 2025.

"Raising the downtown profile (of the Big Sioux) makes a lot of sense," said Gilbertson. "They're building steps and walkways that take you right down to the river. But if you look at what the state says about the water in that area, it's like, 'Oh my God, stay the hell out.' It has failed, and continues to fail, all of the tests for immersion recreation and limited contact recreation. So we're building steps inviting people to walk down to the river that is, by the state's own admission, not suitable for some of the uses being encouraged."

At the very least, the EPAs Toxic Release Inventory offered a snapshot of how hazardous waste releases into the Big Sioux River were allowed to soar under former state guidelines, and how much is still to be done.

Toxic dumpers not tracked by the EPA are even more elusive, especially in an agricultural state not known for its embrace of government regulations. The state has a program that offers payments to landowners who build buffer strips along the river, but financial incentives without sanctions might not be sustainable.

"We've got a lot of carrots," said Gilbertson. "We're woefully short on sticks."

'There's only so much they can do'

On the brink of the Big Sioux near Falls Park, Entenman gestured toward the nearby slaughterhouse and stockyards, an anachronistic emblem of the city's identity before health care and banking took hold.

The mission of Friends of the Big Sioux River is forward-thinking by nature, clashing with Smithfield's reliance on a valuable resource for business realities that date back to John Morrell's arrival in 1909, when the city population was 14,000. It's now more than 210,000.

Entenman mused about Smithfield moving to a different site and moments later acknowledged the improbability of that happening, leaning instead on statements from the company that it has no current plans to expand in Sioux Falls.

The permit changes and wastewater improvements offer hints of hope for his group's efforts, but the process of killing, trimming and processing hogs in mass quantities only leaves so much room for environmental care.

"They're retrofitting a hundred-year-old building on the base of a river that's central to the growth of the city, so there's going to be more scrutiny," said Entenman. "I don't think they're purposely trying to harm anything, but we're talking about a pork processing plant. There's only so much they can do."

The real optimism comes from Entenman's visits to area schools to talk about his objectives, with students seeming more receptive to ecological concerns than previous generations.

"They care, and they're smarter than us," he said. "Once they become empowered, I think there are going to be a lot more changes coming."

They've got their work cut out for them, according to Gilbertson.

"It's taken us more than a century to screw up the river," he said. "It's going to take more than a couple of decades to get it back on track."

Contact Stu Whitney at stu.whitney@sdnewswatch.org.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Can Smithfield Foods and the Big Sioux River co-exist?
He stormed the Capitol with his parents on Jan. 6. Whats next for this Florida man?

A Bradenton man pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

John Anthony Schubert III, 47, pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia on Thursday to a felony offense of assaulting, resisting or impeding law enforcement officers, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida.

Schubert will be sentenced on July 11 by U.S. District Judge Christopher R. Cooper, according to a news release.

Prosecutors say Schubert was part of the initial breach of police barricades just before 1 p.m. Jan. 6 at the Peace Circle on Pennsylvania Avenue and 1st Street NW.

Despite the area being closed to the public that day and blocked by fencing, prosecutors say Schubert and others breached the police barricades in this area and made their way to West Plaza.

Once in West Plaza, prosecutors say Schubert joined a large group of rioters fighting with law enforcement officers.

Bradenton man guilty after US Capitol riot

Evidence obtained by the FBI appears to show John Schubert III, of Bradenton, pushing and shoving law enforcement officers outside of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, according to an arrest report.

The law enforcement officers were struggling to prevent rioters, who heavily outnumbered them, from getting closer to the Capitol building, according to a news release.

Video footage appears to show Schubert pushing and shoving at least one law enforcement officer, the FBI wrote in an arrest warrant.

Schubert also attempted to punch the officer and only retreated from the fighting after he was sprayed with a chemical irritant, according to the release.

Prosecutors say Schubert then went to the Upper West Terrance and entered the Capitol building at around 2:21 p.m. by climbing through a broken window next to the Senate Wing Door.

Once inside, the release says Schubert helped his parents climb through the same broken window a minute later.

The group then went to different locations inside the Capitol, including the Rotunda and Statuary Hall, before Schubert exited the building at approximately 2:43 p.m. through the East Front House Door, prosecutors said.

Schubert was identified in a photo shared by the FBI, the Department of Justice previously said.

Evidence obtained by the FBI appears to show John Schubert III, of Bradenton, outside of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, according to an arrest report.

Over three years after the Jan 6. riot, the Department of Justice says around 1,400 people have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the U.S. Capitol breach.

Around 450 people have been charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding law enforcement officers, with more than 120 individuals using a deadly weapon or causing serious bodily injury to an officer, according to the Department of Justice.

Around 140 police officers were assaulted on Jan. 6 at the Capitol, including about 80 from the U.S. Capitol Police and 60 from the Metropolitan Police Department, the Department of Justice says.

Bradenton man joined Jan. 6 attack with parents

Schubert was arrested on Oct. 4, 2023, in Bradenton, the Bradenton Herald previously reported.

Schuberts parents, Amy and John Schubert Jr., were also previously arrested, charged and convicted for their role in the Jan. 6 insurrection.

The couple from Crest Hill, Illinois, were arrested on July 26, 2021, and charged with knowingly entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, according to the Department of Justices Website.

The two were identified after an anonymous tip submitted to the FBI in the form of YouTube video that showed people within the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6.

In the video, one of the people inside the Capitol wore a jacket with a logo on the back that read Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 422 Joliet IL, according to a criminal complaint.

The FBI then managed to find six Google accounts that were tied to the 815 Joliet area code and were geolocated to the U.S. Capitol building on that date, the Bradenton Herald previously reported.

One of the six names was Amy Schubert, according to the criminal complaint.

Both Amy and John Schubert Jr. took plea deals and were sentenced to 18 months probation, fines and 100 hours of community service, according to court documents.

Other Manatee County residents charged

Two other men with ties to the Bradenton area were arrested for taking part in the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol.

Adam Johnson, a 38-year-old Parrish man, became one of the most recognized rioters at the Capitol thanks to a viral image of him carrying Nancy Pelosis lectern. He took a plea deal and served 75 days in prison, the Bradenton Herald previously reported.

Daniel Lyons Scott, a 30-year-old man who was identified as a Bradenton resident at the time of his arrest, was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to felony charges, including assault. Investigators identified him as one of the first members of the mob to initiate contact with law enforcement on the Capitol steps before the first breach of the building.

Scott was a member of the far-right extremist Proud Boys group and went by the nickname Milkshake, according to prosecutors.

Schuberts case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section, with assistance from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida.

The investigation was overseen by the FBIs Tampa and Washington Field Offices, which identified Schubert in a BOLO or be on the lookout alert. The Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department also assisted in the investigation, according to the release.
When she gave birth to her son about three years ago, Veon Brewster used dry-erase markers and little sticky notes to keep track of her breast milk bottles.

One day, exhausted, she and her husband mixed up the bottles and fed baby Cayden expired milk, which led to vomiting, colic and a fever.

After the mom guilt went away, I said to myself, OK, something has to exist out there that can help us alleviate some of this mental load as new parents, Brewster now remembers.

She quickly asked about 200,000 moms in a Facebook group how they tracked their milk, and everyone said they did it manually. Brewster, who works for Google and is pursuing a PhD in computer science at Florida International University, couldnt believe it.

I was like, Wait, what? Theres got to be a better way, she recalled this week.

Soon, Brewster fixed her issue  the same issue thousands of other parents and caregivers face. And the solution landed her a spot in one of the most-watched TV shows in the country: ABCs Shark Tank.

She invented a groundbreaking product she called Veba Baby, a monitor that adheres to baby bottles like a bracelet.

Veba  a word made up of the first two letters of Veons name and the first two letters of Baba, her sons nickname for his bottles  measures the temperature around the bottle and constantly calculates the expiration date of breast milk or formula.

Users can connect the monitor to an app on their phones and see the status of all of their bottles. They can locate missing bottles, check how much their baby is eating, and schedule feedings. They get notifications when a bottle is about to expire or has already expired.

Veon and Sean Brewster pitching their business on Shark Tank. Christopher Willard via Disney

How Veba got to Shark Tank

Brewster, who studies how humans interact with computers at FIU, partnered with a mechanical engineer and worked for two years to bring her idea to life. She and her husband Sean, the chief operating officer, finally launched the company in August 2023.

But before they posted the website and started selling the product, Brewster participated in a three-month immersive program at Techstars, a company that teaches early-stage entrepreneurs how to pitch investors, hire personnel and get mentors, among other much-needed lessons.

During the Techstars graduation, Brewster said she gave a presentation about Veba. And she didnt know it at the time, but a Shark Tank producer happened to be sitting in the audience.

A few weeks later, when a Shark Tank email popped into her inbox she thought she was getting scammed.

Why would someone from Shark Tank reach out to me? she thought and giggled.

But after a second look she realized the message was legitimate, and although she had planned to apply for the show until 2025, she decided to move it up.

When Shark Tank comes knocking, you answer, she said.

In September, just mere weeks after launching Veba, the Brewsters flew out to California to meet with American businesswoman Lori Greiner, Canadian businessman Kevin OLeary (better known as Mr. Wonderful), American businessman Mark Cuban and guest shark Emma Grede, a British businesswoman and fashion designer who co-founded the denim company Good American.

Shark Tank is the biggest platform for doing a business pitch so I felt a mixture of excitement and a ball of nerves, Brewster said.

Ultimately, all of the Sharks said no in the episode that aired Friday, April 5, because they felt it was too early to invest. Still, Brewster said Veba benefited from the show.

Shark Tank stars Mark Cuban, Emma Grede and Kevin OLeary all passed on Veba Baby, but Veon Brewster says the exposure from the show have been a big boost for business. Christopher Willard/Disney

Navigating entrepreneurship as a Jamaican woman at FIU

Since the episode aired, Brewster said the company has been receiving a lot more customer feedback. Some have asked them to introduce Veba to hospitals and other medical centers. Others have shared their personal horror stories with expired milk.

More importantly, the exposure has boosted sales, she said.

Brewster said shes thankful to Shark Tank for the opportunity and to FIUs culture for the support, which she said encouraged her to believe in herself.

The university is really diverse so Ive always felt welcomed, and like my opinions and thoughts really matter, she said.

Brewster, who migrated from Jamaica to Miami at 7 years old, joined the about 20% that women make up of all inventors, and the 1.1% of Black inventors in the U.S., according to career site Zippia.

The reality is that when I pitch my product, the people Im pitching to never look like me, so theres already a barrier there. On average, I get 5% of the capital thats available to entrepreneurs, so my demographic tends to skew into the under-funded. And we know a lot of companies are now aware of that and theyre trying to fix it, but its a tough road. So having FIU helping to fund more minority-funded companies means a lot, she added.

Brewster hopes to get more training and networking at StartUP FIU, a hub at the university that opened in 2016 and fosters entrepreneurship among faculty and students, to get capital money.

Robert Hacker, the co-founder and the director of StartUP FIU, described Brewster as an intelligent and impressive woman.

We help everyone who comes to us, he said. Were supportive of everybody who wants to pursue ventures. From the first day we started, I told the entire team, If youre asked to do something, the answer is yes and then well figure out how to do it.

Brewster said shes excited to keep growing Veba as a business. But she remains most excited to help families  including her own, as shes expecting twin girls due in September.
School kids have a knack for adopting the latest technologies to make their lives easier, often ahead of their teachers. And in the age of generative AI it seems that extends from using Chat GPT to write homework assignments to using AI art generators to win the school art competition.

A secondary school in Taiwan has withdrawn the top prize for digital art in its teacher-student art show after it was pointed out that the winning entry had been made with text-to-image generative AI. And the incident has sparked intense debate among education authorities and experts.

An AI-generated image of a monkey king framed on a wall

In hindsight, the telltale signs are fairly clear. The illustration of a Monkey King character has deformed hands and feet, strange textures in its hair and bandages and anatomically incorrect thigh muscles. Fairly typical traits of AI image generators. But the judges at Fu Hsin Trade and Arts School didn't realise until after the prize had been awarded and people started to raise concerns.

The private school in New Taipei is known for its commercial art program. It held the teacher-student art show from March 25 to April 2 to celebrate its 67th anniversary.

In the video above, the YouTuber Boss Kuma is particularly critical of the piece, and of the competitions judges for failing to spot that it was AI-generated. This is not just an AI-generated picture but one that has not even been touched up. I do not know what the creator of this submission went to three years of art school for. So pathetic, he says.

In a Facebook post, the school said the student in question had admitted to misapplying AI. It said the student and his parents had apologised and that the prizes would be changed.

The story appears to be big news in Taiwan, making it to TV news broadcasts and According to the Taipei Times, the case has sparked quite a debate. The New Taipei City Department of Education has reportedly announced plans for new guidelines emphasising a need for schools to include experts on judging panels for art competitions.

Meanwhile, Tunghai University College of Fine Arts and Creative Design director Hsu Ho-chieh was reported as saying that art and design educators should acknowledge the rise of AI and change how they teach students as a result. The academic added that training in basic skills, aesthetics and innovation remain as important as ever because appropriate use of AI art generators requires users to be able to see and correct mistakes and to have an understanding of copyright issues.

National Chiayi University Department of Visual Art chair Hsieh Chih-chang said schools should accept AI art generators as a legitimate tool and not prevent students from using them but should teach how to use them correctly. He suggested that students should use AI as long as the resulting work is unique and distinctly theirs.

This is the latest in a series of high-profile cases of AI-generated images winning competitions without the judges realising. In September 2022, artists protested after a Midjourney-generated image won a fine art competition in Colorado. In that case, the judges decided to stick with their decision after the truth emerged.

However, the phenomenon has also led to cases where judges have been too quick to dismiss entries as AI. A Sydney print shop had to apologise after incorrectly disqualifying a real photograph from its competition because it thought the image looked like it was generated by AI. Hopefully, the use of Content Credentials will start to make it easier for judges to gain clarity on the provenance of submissions. They could also check out this artist's handy guide to how to spot AI images.
SOUTH BURLINGTON  Tesla opened its only store in Vermont in the former Hannaford supermarket off Shelburne Road on a drizzly Thursday afternoon, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of dozens of fans to tour the facility and ogle a stainless steel Cybertruck stuffed into the small showroom.

The angular truck, weighing in at more than three tons, measures 18 1/2 feet long and nearly eight feet wide with its mirrors extended, and took up the entire showroom. Todd Lockwood, who manages the Vermont Tesla Owners Group, said he was surprised by the small size of the showroom when he first saw it.

A Tesla Cybertruck took up the entire showroom at the new Tesla store in South Burlington, as seen on April 11, 2024.

"It looks small with this Cybertruck in here, it's a big vehicle," Lockwood said. "The only thing that would make it look smaller would be having a Tesla semi parked in here. But you can put a Tesla (Model) 3 and a (Model) Y in here together, or a Model S and X together, so it's usable, but most of the larger Tesla facilities have 50% more showroom space than this."

Tesla store in South Burlington has lots of empty space

Most of the nearly 47,000 square foot building housing the Tesla store is taken up with a cavernous service department and lots of empty space.

Tesla's only store in Vermont opened on Shelburne Road in South Burlington, as seen on April 10, 2024.

"There may have been some considerations about spending right now because Tesla's been in a little bit of a dip lately," Lockwood said. "In fact if this whole project had been scheduled six months later than they did they might have scrapped the whole thing."

So far in 2024, Teslas stock price has fallen 30.4%, according to Morningstar, following a 15.3% loss in 2023. The stock is currently priced at about $174 per share, roughly two-thirds of its previous peak of around $258 in December 2023.

No more trips to Latham, New York, to service your Tesla

Lockwood welcomed the opening of the Tesla store nevertheless, and especially its service department. Now he and the other estimated 3,000 Tesla owners in Vermont will no longer have to drive to Latham, New York, near Albany, for servicing, nearly a three-hour drive for Lockwood.

Todd Lockwood, who manages the Vermont Tesla Owners Group, was enlisted by Tesla as an unofficial spokesman at its grand opening event on April 11, 2024.

"The other option was Montreal," Lockwood said. "The problem with going to Canada is if they give you a loaner car you're not allowed to bring it back across the border. You're stuck up there."

More: Tesla will offer sales and service of its electric vehicles at South Burlington site

Lockwood was an unofficial spokesman for Tesla at the opening event, as Tesla employees are not allowed to speak to the press, referring a reporter to Lockwood. Lockwood said he was also enlisted by Tesla to notify the press in advance of the opening.

The new Tesla store in South Burlington includes a service department that will be welcomed by Vermont Tesla owners who will no longer have to drive to Latham, New York, for servicing. As seen on April 10, 2024.

"They approached me a couple of weeks ago at the corporate level," Lockwood said. "They said, 'We heard about what you're doing up there. We wondered if the club would be willing to send out a press release for us.'"

Contact Dan DAmbrosio at 660-1841 or ddambrosi@gannett.com. Follow him on X @DanDambrosioVT.

This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Tesla now has a store in Vermont, located in South Burlington
Chair John Bielamowicz speaks during a the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists meeting during the discussion with the Association of State & Provincial Psychology Boards regarding the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology on Thursday, April 11, 2024 in Austin. Credit: Maria Crane/The Texas Tribune

A costly new national certification exam for psychologists has convinced the professions licensing authority in Texas to consider crafting a cheaper alternative to help alleviate a persistent mental health provider shortage here.

On Thursday, the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists moved to begin researching the cost of a cheaper state exam instead of requiring applicants to take a new $450 skills test offered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, known also as ASPPB.

Applicants already take a required $800 knowledge exam from the national board. The new skills exam was approved by the national board in 2016 but it notified states last October that it would now be required to complete certification by the national body.

Refusing to adopt this additional test would mean psychologists in Texas would be ineligible to use the existing exam, something the state licensing board has used to license psychologists here since 1965.

Let's call a spade a spade. This is a negotiation tactic. It was a deadline that was long enough in their minds to have agencies swallow this bitter pill, but not adequate time to craft a good solution to it, John Bielamowicz, the presiding member of the state psychologists licensing board, said Thursday.

Texas is the first licensing board in the nation to consider an alternative to the national exam. But the state board said it would back off its gambit if the national testing board considered making the new exam optional instead of required.

Currently, Texas licensed psychologists must have a doctoral degree and pass three exams: the $800 knowledge exam by the national testing board, a $210 jurisprudence test, and a $320 oral exam. This is an addition to the $340 a prospective psychologist must pay to do their required 3,500 hours of supervised work and now the national testing agency wants to add a $450 skills test on top of it.

Any failure of these tests requires a candidate to retake the exam and pay the same price. Multiple mental health providers testified to the board that they have spent thousands of dollars trying to pass the current knowledge exam, and adding anything else can be costly.

I spent close to $9,000 trying to pass the first (knowledge test), said Sarah Lorenz, a mental health counselor in Dallas. If the board feels held hostage to an authoritative mandate, imagine how we feel. Focus on our stateTexas only.

The Texas psychologists board is mindful of the fact that there is a critical shortage of mental health providers in this state. Some board members like Jamie Becker, saw this new requirement as one more barrier to getting providers licensed and into the workforce quickly.

I dont think this test is horrible nor do I think what you are asking of us is terrible, but this will impact a lot of providers we need. We have providers who practice in rural areas. People who come from different backgrounds and languages, and this is just making it harder for them to become licensed because of the cost, Becker said. I am trying to find a reason to justify, and I am struggling with it.

Today, 251 of Texas 254 counties are wholly or partially designated by the federal government as mental health professional shortage areas, and thats in a state where roughly 5 million people do not have health insurance.

Therapists, counselors, and psychologists are often interchangeable terms the public uses to describe a mental health provider. However, the pathways to these careers are very different. Counselors focus on specific issues that affect mental well-being instead of outright illness, and it only requires a license and a bachelor's degree depending on the specialty. A therapist must have a masters degree in psychology to practice.

This additional skills test was designed to weed out applicants who might have barely passed the knowledge exam but lack the skills to work in a clinical setting.

We are the only health providers without a skills exam, Michelle Paul, president of ASPPB, told the board. This is a problem because we want psychologists to sit side by side with other health providers, but we dont have the same standards.

Paul told The Texas Tribune this new test is needed in a post-COVID-19 pandemic world where students had to learn under unusual circumstances.

We need providers everywhere, not just in Texas. That said, we need competent providers. We shouldnt let the idea of barriers disintegrate the value of psychology, she said.

However, the licensing board in Texas believes this is an unnecessary step since they have not heard any complaints about ethics or preparedness from mental health providers.

This is a solution looking for a problem that also doubles the expense of test takers, said board member Ryan Bridges.

So far, only Georgia, Nevada and Washington, D.C. have adopted this new skills test.

As the need for more mental health workers grows, Texas lawmakers and regulatory agencies are looking more closely at job requirements and ways to get more people licensed quickly to help bolster the mental health workforce. More families are opting to bypass waiting lists and heading straight to emergency rooms with loved ones who need treatment for example.

At Thursday's meeting, board members also raised concerns about whether the new test accurately measures clinical skills and whether it creates more barriers to entry for applicants, particularly people of color or those who speak a different language.

More than 50% of Texas residents are Hispanic, but the mental health provider population is overwhelmingly white, according to 2023 data. Also, less than 20% of the states 10,440 mental health providers that responded to that 2023 workforce survey offer mental health services in a language other than English.

Representatives for the national testing board insist their tests are designed to protect the public.

Paul, the president of the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, also said the mental health workforce issue will not get solved at the licensure level.

How many doctorates are graduating in psychology? Maybe eight to 10 a year. We need to invest in training programs for more students. That is how you solve this problem, she told the Texas Tribune.

Paul is hopeful a solution can be found between her agency and the state of Texas. Board members indicated that if Pauls group would make the skills test optional, it would consider abandoning its pursuit of a homegrown Texas test.

We are open to conversations about this exam. I hope the relationship is not too fractured and broken, she said.

However, to some in the boards meeting room, the new requirements seemed like an ultimatum.

Gloria Canseco, the presiding member of the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council, put it more succinctly while testifying in support of the psychologist boards action.

Dont mess with Texas. It looks like something you might see on a bumper sticker, but that is our state persona. We push back, and I suggest we push back here, she said.

Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival, happening in downtown Austin Sept. 5-7. Get your TribFest tickets before May 1 and save big!
Former President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Friday gathered at Mar-a-Lago to conflate a pair of conservative hot-button issues: border security and election security.

Johnson announced the GOP caucus in the U.S. House will present legislation requiring every person registering to vote to show proof of citizenship. It will also require states to remove ineligible voters from their rolls and databases.

"Everywhere we go one of the first issues people ask about is this issue of election integrity. The border is the number one issue in America," Johnson said in front of Trump's Palm Beach mansion and resort. "Election integrity is tied to the lack of border security."

The announcement, however, clashed with the assessments of voting specialists, including one formerly hired by Trump four years ago. It was criticized by immigration advocates as further demonizing immigrants in the United States.

A national elections expert said the allegations, accusations and claims of massive election fraud by people who are not citizens of the United States have long been debunked.

"We're talking about something that is almost a statistically zero problem," said David Becker, executive director of the Center for Election Innovation & Research.

Former President Donald Trump and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson hold a press conference at Mr. Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate on April 12, 2024, in Palm Beach.

Nonetheless, Johnson stated his belief that there are "so many millions of illegals in the country" that if only one in every hundred cast a ballot it would amount to hundreds of thousands of votes.

"That could turn an election," he said, adding, "We will do everything within our power to insure that we do have free and fair elections in this country."

As for Trump on Friday, he did not address the proposed GOP legislation. But he again decried what he said was the Biden administration's "disastrous" border policy.

"As a citizen I demand the border has to be closed," he said. "Our country can't take it."

Trump again stated that he believes the number of immigrants that have entered the United States under the Biden administration, reported to be more than three million, is well into the eight figures.

"They are coming from all over the world," Trump again said. "Our country is like a dumping ground."

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson speaks during a press conference with former President Donald Trump listens during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on April 12, 2024, in Palm Beach.

Elections expert: Voting by non-citizens a near 'zero problem'

Becker noted Georgia officials performed an audit of ballots cast in the 2022 midterm election and "found a grand total of zero votes" cast by non-citizens. And in the billions of ballots studied by the Heritage Foundation in the past 45 years, the total number of such instances found amounted to a few dozen cases, Becker said.

It's not a problem, he said, largely because of the Help America Vote Act of 2002 signed into law by then-President George W. Bush.

The 22-year-old law, a response to the 2000 elections, ended punch card voting systems, which contributed to the debacle in Florida balloting, and other measures. And, Becker explained, the law created a voter registration process and reaffirmed it is a serious violation of federal law to vote illegally.

"It was a big bill, it was bipartisan and W signed it," Becker said.

The law requires a prospective voter to provide a driver's license or Social Security number when registering to vote, he said, and those numbers are crossed-check against department of motor vehicle records to see what document was used to ascertain residency, either a U.S. passport or birth certificate, or an immigration visa or permanent residency card.

"If DMV has evidence you're not a citizen, you're not going to get registered," he said. "It very clearly requires a driver license number or Social Security number to register. And if you don't provide either, you have to show photo ID when you show up to vote. It's basically ID to register."

Becker also doubted the motivation of a non-U.S. citizen, who likely endured significant hardship to enter the United States, to risk it all by casting an illegal ballot.

"If you illegally registered to vote, or voted illegally, you are putting a big bull's eye on yourself. You will be discovered, you will be prosecuted and you will be deported," he said. "Why would anyone do that? It just doesn't happen, hardly at all, for that very easy-to-understand reason."

Trump has made election fraud claims for years. Hasn't backed them up in court

It's not the first time Trump has raised the specter of non-citizen voting. After he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election, Trump tweeted: "I won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally."

After taking office, Trump ordered the creation of a commission to investigate the claim of illegally cast votes. But the panel, led by Vice President Mike Pence and Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, disbanded shortly after, not having found evidence of fraud.

At the time, Trump and those supporting his claims partly pointed to a report from the Pew Center to back up their assertions. But the CEIR's Becker said he intimately knows why the Pew center report did not support Trump's argument.

"The problem with that is I wrote that Pew report," Becker said. "That Pew report did not say anything about voter fraud at all. It was about how hard it is to keep voter lists accurate as people move."

Four years alter, Trump wildly expanded his baseless claim of election fraud alleging in a tweet that "Massive FRAUD took place with machines, people voting from out of state, illegals, dead people, no signatures  and so much more!"

To this day, said Becker, who has monitored every 2020 election audit and court challenge, Team Trump refuses to offer evidence of voter fraud for cross-examination and review in the judicial system.

"They have put forth the evidence," he said. "Every single time they back down."

Fraud investigator: Trump should pursue 'foundational, seismic' changes

Ken Block, who investigated claims of election fraud for the Trump campaign in 2020, said the announcement was a "big miss" for the 2024 GOP presumptive presidential candidate.

Block said his experience trying to confirm incidents of alleged voter fraud for Trump four years ago, including accusations of non-citizen voting, is that disproving the citizenship status of voters would require a massive investment in a database and other procedures.

A more fruitful pursuit, he said, would be to standardize state laws. For example, states should provide information on who cast an in-person vote. And that should be done within the timetable a candidate has to challenge the results before an election is certified. Block also said a third of states allow an early vote by a citizen who dies before Election Day to be counted, while a third don't and another third don't even address the issue.

"There are a lot of things that we should be fixing in terms of our elections." said Block, who documented his work for Trump in 2020 in a book titled "Disproven."

An even more "foundational and seismic" proposal, he said, would be for Trump to call for an end to gerrymandering of elections with skewed and patently unfair districts.

"If you're interested in free and transparent and fair elections, how can you have any of that when partisan elected officials can draw a map that screws their opposition?" he said. "That's tin pot democracy. That's not something the world's foremost democracy should have as a foundational element, but we do."

Immigration advocates braced for more demonizing of immigrants for political advantage

Immigration advocates said they were braced for another onslaught of ugly and incendiary rhetoric. The announcement followed Trump's recent escalation of border security rhetoric, in which he has repeatedly said people entering the country are coming from insane asylums and prisons. He has highlighted sporadic incidents such as cases in Georgia and Michigan where an undocumented immigrant has been charged with murder by local law enforcement officials.

This time, America's Voice research director Zachary Mueller said he expected an elections version of "replacement theory," a white nationalist, far-right conspiracy theory that states immigrants and non-white people are being lured to the country to change the racial and ethnic mix of America at the expense of the white majority.

Former President Donald Trump during a presidential primary campaign rally at Ted Hendricks Stadium in Hialeah on Nov. 8, 2023. During the rally, Trump said he wanted to expand his first-term crackdown on immigration if he returns to power.

"That is what they are getting at with this language around trying to quote unquote ban non-citizen voting at the federal level," Mueller said. "There isn't a nefarious conspiracy happening here but in fact this is a solution in search of a problem."

Mueller added that the more sinister effort is the one to undermine faith in the U.S. electoral system by whipping up immigration fear-mongering.

"They're leading people towards not only the great replacement but as well the kind of feeding of the election deniers that we saw end in a violent assault on the Capitol on Jan. 6," Mueller said. "They continue to lay that groundwork ahead of the November election and it's extremely concerning to us."

To that end, Mueller said Johnson's willingness to "lend" Trump the credibility of Congress "with the fig leaf of legislation" further will erode public confidence in the country's governmental institutions and beyond.

"This isn't just about immigrants, or hate, or vitriol or demonization to immigrant communities," he said. "What he is doing is taking immigrants as a vehicle to socialize a justification for undermining our democracy."

Antonio Fins is a politics and business editor at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at afins@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Is non-citizen voting law backed by Trump, Johnson really necessary?
On February 24, 2022, Russian forces invaded Ukraine. Since then, life in the country has changed for everyone.

For the Ukrainian forces who had to defend their country, for the regular citizens who had to withstand invading forces and constant shelling, and for the Cyberpolice of Ukraine, which had to shift its focus and priorities.

Our responsibility changed after the full scale war started, said Yevhenii Panchenko, the chief of division of the Cyberpolice Department of the National Police of Ukraine, during a talk on Tuesday in New York City. New directives were put under our responsibility.

During the talk at the Chainalysis LINKS conference, Panchenko said that the Cyberpolice is comprised of around a thousand employees, of which about forty track crypto-related crimes. The Cyberpolice's responsibility is to combat all manifestations of cyber crime in cyberspace, said Panchenko. And after the war started, he said, we were also responsible for the active struggle against the aggression in cyberspace.

Panchenko sat down for a wide-ranging interview with TechCrunch on Wednesday, where he spoke about the Cyberpolices new responsibilities in wartime Ukraine. That includes tracking what war crimes Russian soldiers are committing in the country, which they sometimes post on social media; monitoring the flow of cryptocurrency funding the war; exposing disinformation campaigns; investigating ransomware attacks; and training citizens on good cybersecurity practices.

The following transcript has been edited for brevity and clarity.

TechCrunch: How did your job and that of the police change after the invasion?

It almost totally changed. Because we still have some regular tasks that we always do, we're responsible for all the spheres of cyber investigation.

We needed to relocate some of our units in different places, of course, to some difficult organizations because now we need to work separately. And also we added some new tasks and new areas for us of responsibilities when the war started.

From the list of the new tasks that we have, we crave information about Russian soldiers. We never did that. We don't have any experience before February 2022. And now we try to collect all the evidence that we have because they also adapted and started to hide, like their social media pages that we used for recognizing people who were taking part in the larger invading forces that Russians used to get our cities and kill our people.

Also, we are responsible for identifying and investigating the cases where Russian hackers do attacks against Ukraine. They attack our infrastructure, sometimes DDoS [distributed denial-of-service attacks], sometimes they make defacements, and also try to disrupt our information in general. So, it's quite a different sphere.

Because we don't have any cooperation with Russian law enforcement, that's why it's not easy to sometimes identify or search information about IP addresses or other things. We need to find new ways to cooperate on how to exchange data with our intelligence services.

Some units are also responsible for defending the critical infrastructure in the cyber sphere. It's also an important task. And today, many attacks also target critical infrastructure. Not only missiles, but hackers also try to get the data and destroy some resources like electricity, and other things.

When we think about soldiers, we think about real world actions. But are there any crimes that Russian soldiers are committing online?

[Russia] uses social media to sometimes take pictures and publish them on the internet, as it was usual in the first stage of the war. When the war first started, probably for three or four months [Russian soldiers] published everything: videos and photos from the cities that were occupied temporarily. That was evidence that we collected.

And sometimes they also make videos when they shoot in a city, or use tanks or other vehicles with really big guns. There's some evidence that they don't choose the target, they just randomly shoot around. It's the video that we also collected and included in investigations that our office is doing against the Russians.

In other words, looking for evidence of war crimes?

Yes.

How has the ransomware landscape in Ukraine changed after the invasion?

It's changed because Russia is now not only focused on the money side; their main target is to show citizens and probably some public sector that [Russia] is really effective and strong. If they have any access on a first level, they don't deep dive, they just destroy the resources and try to deface just to show that they are really strong. They have really effective hackers and groups who are responsible for that. Now, we don't have so many cases related to ransom, we have many cases related to disruption attacks. It has changed in that way.

Has it been more difficult to distinguish between pro-Russian criminals and Russian government hackers?

Really difficult, because they don't like to look like a government structure or some units in the military. They always find a really fancy name like, I don't know, 'Fancy Bear' again. They try to hide their real nature.

Contact Us

Do you have information about cyberattacks in Ukraine? From a non-work device, you can contact Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai securely on Signal at +1 917 257 1382, or via Telegram, Keybase and Wire @lorenzofb, or email. You also can contact TechCrunch via SecureDrop.

But we see that after the war started, their militaries and intelligence services started to organize groups  maybe they're not so effective and not so professional as some groups that worked before the war started. But they organize the groups in a massive [scale]. They start from growing new partners, they give them some small tasks, then see if they are effective and truly succeed in a small portion of IT knowledge. Then they move forward and do some new tasks. Now we can see many of the applications they also publish on the internet about the results. Some are not related to what governments or intelligence groups did, but they publish that intelligence. They also use their own media resources to raise the impact of the attack.

What are pro-Russian hacking groups doing these days? What activities are they focused on? You mentioned critical infrastructure defacements; is there anything else that you're tracking?

It starts from basic attacks like DDoS to destroy communications and try to destroy the channels that we use to communicate. Then, of course, defacements. Also, they collect data. Sometimes they publish that in open sources. And sometimes they probably collect but not use it in disruption, or in a way to show that they already have the access.

Sometimes we know about the situation when we prevent a crime, but also attacks. We have some signs of compromise that were probably used on one government, and then we share with others.

[Russia] also creates many psyops channels. Sometimes the attack did not succeed. And even if they don't have any evidence, they'll say "we have access to the system of military structures of Ukraine."

How are you going after these hackers? Some are not inside the country, and some are inside the country.

That's the worst thing that we have now, but it's a situation that could change. We just need to collect all the evidence and also provide investigation as we can. And also, we inform other law enforcement agencies in countries who cooperate with us about the actors who we identify as part of the groups that committed attacks on Ukrainian territory or to our critical infrastructure.

Why is it important? Because if you talk about some regular soldier from the Russian army, he will probably never come to the European Union and other countries. But if we talk about some smart guys who already have a lot of knowledge in offensive hacking, he prefers to move to warmer places and not work from Russia. Because he could be recruited to the army, other things could happen. That's why it's so important to collect all evidence and all information about the person, then also prove that he was involved in some attacks and share that with our partners.

Also because you have a long memory, you can wait and maybe identify this hacker, where they are in Russia. You have all the information, and then when they are in Thailand or somewhere, then you can move in on them. You're not in a rush necessarily?

They attack a lot of our civil infrastructure. That war crime has no time expiration. That's why it's so important. We can wait 10 years and then arrest him in Spain or other countries.

Who are the cyber volunteers doing and what is their role?

We don't have many people today who are volunteers. But they are really smart people from around the world  the United States and the European Union. They also have some knowledge in IT, sometimes in blockchain analysis. They help us to provide analysis against the Russians, collect data about the wallets that they use for fundraising campaigns, and sometimes they also inform us about the new form or new group that the Russians create to coordinate their activities.

It's important because we can't cover all the things that are happening. Russia is a really big country, they have many groups, they have many people involved in the war. That type of cooperation with volunteers is really important now, especially because they also have a better knowledge of local languages.

Sometimes we have volunteers who are really close to Russian-speaking countries. That helps us understand what exactly they are doing. There is also a community of IT guys that's also communicating with our volunteers directly. It's important and we really like to invite other people to that activity. It's not illegal or something like that. They just provide the information and they can tell us what they can do.

What about pro-Ukrainian hackers like the Ukraine IT Army. Do you just let them do what they want or are they also potential targets for investigation?

No, we don't cooperate directly with them.

We have another project that also involves many subscribers. I also talked about it during my presentation: it's called BRAMA. It's a gateway and we coordinate and gather people. One thing that we propose is to block and destroy Russian propaganda and psyops on the internet. We have really been effective and have had really big results. We blocked more than 27,000 resources that belong to Russia. They publish their narratives, they publish many of psyops materials. And today, we also added some new functions in our community. We not only fight against propaganda, we also fight against fraud, because a lot of fraud today represented in the territory of Ukraine is also created by the Russians.

They also have a lot of impact with that, because if they launder and take money from our citizens, we could help. And that's why we include those activities, so we proactively react to stories that we received from our citizens, from our partners about new types of fraud that could be happening on the internet.

And also we provide some training for our citizens about cyber hygiene and cybersecurity. It's also important today because the Russians hackers not only target the critical infrastructure or government structures, they also try to get some data of our people.

For example, Telegram. Now it's not a big problem but it's a new challenge for us, because they first send interesting material, and ask people to communicate or interact with bots. On Telegram, you can create bots. And if you just type twice, they get access to your account, and change the number, change two-factor authentication, and you will lose your account.

Is fraud done to raise funds for the war?

Yes.

Can you tell me more about Russian fundraising? Where are they doing it, and who is giving them money? Are they using the blockchain?

There are some benefits and also disadvantages that crypto could give them. First of all, [Russians] use crypto a lot. They create almost all kinds of wallets. It starts from Bitcoin to Monero. Now they understand that some types of crypto are really dangerous for them because many of the exchanges cooperate and also confiscate the funds that they collect to help their military.

How are you going after this type of fundraising?

If they use crypto, we label the addresses, we make some attribution. It's our main goal. That's also the type of activities that our volunteers help us to do. We are really effective at that. But if they use some banks, we only could collect the data and understand who exactly is responsible for that campaign. Sanctions are the only good way to do that.

What is cyber resistance?

Cyber resistance is the big challenge for us. We wanted to play that cyber resistance in cyberspace for our users, for our resources. First of all, if we talk about users, we start from training and also sharing some advice and knowledge with our citizens. The idea is how you could react to the attacks that are expected in the future.

How is the Russian government using crypto after the invasion?

Russia didn't change everything in crypto. But they adapted because they saw that there were many sanctions. They create new ways to launder money to prevent attribution of the addresses that they used for their infrastructures, and to pay or receive funds. It's really easy in crypto to create many addresses. Previously they didnt do that as much, but now they use it often.
To Russia, the Ukraine war and the "gray zone" fights beyond it are two sides of the same coin.

The Kremlin believes that destabilizing Africa would ease Russia's campaign in Ukraine.

The KGB's successors, however, have had a less-than-stellar record.

Even as Russian bombs pound Ukraine, Moscow's mercenaries and spies are busy trying to set much of the rest of the world afire.

"Russia is using unconventional methods to expand its influence, evade containment, and destabilize and disrupt its adversaries  and is making progress in several directions," a report by Britain's Royal United Services Institute think tank warned. This includes covert operations in Europe, mercenaries operating across Africa, and establishing links with Muslim communities in Central Asia and Europe.

To Russia, the conventional warfare waged in Ukraine and the unconventional "gray zone" warfare waged around the world are two sides of the same coin. "It is the conventional threat of escalation that deters retaliation against unconventional activity, thereby expanding the scope of what Russia can get away with," RUSI said. "Conversely, it is the unconventional operations of the Russian special services that aim to set the conditions for the successful application of conventional military force."

Thus, for example, the Kremlin believes that destabilizing Africa  and diverting Western attention and resources  will ease Russia's campaign in Ukraine. All of this means that Russian "special services"  spies, assassins, and propagandists  are set to continue their efforts.

Revolution and subversion was the business model for the Soviet Union and later Russia. "The Russian playbook has been remarkably consistent for decades," RUSI noted. "The overall approach is to use information operations and active measures to polarize a target population, mobilize factions in support of allied elites, and paralyze support for opposing elements of a country's leadership. Human intelligence operations are used to attempt elite capture through the offer of assistance to politicians who support Russian interests. Finally, violence can be employed to escalate political tensions to the point of crisis, or in other contexts to isolate a captured elite."

For example, in 2016, Russian military intelligence recruited criminal gangs for an attempted coup to stop Montenegro from joining NATO (the attempt eventually led to several agents and Montenegrin politicians being sentenced to prison). In February 2022, Moscow tried to spark street protests that would "justify Russian military intervention, aided by collaborators within the Ukrainian government, clearing the path for Russian agents recruited inside the Ukrainian parliament and state to seize power," RUSI said. And in Moldova in 2022 and 2023, Russia's FSB security service hoped that protests would offer an excuse for pro-Russian leaders to call for military intervention (though "the poor performance of Russian arms in Ukraine" made these leaders hesitate, RUSI noted).

The Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces building, also known as the GRU, in Moscow. Getty Images

'Creating crises'

Unfortunately for Russian President Vladimir Putin, the KGB's successors have had a less-than-stellar record. The 161 Intelligence Specialists Training Center  the shadowy sabotage, subversion, and assassination unit of the GRU, or Russian military intelligence  has accrued multiple failures over the past decade, including an unsuccessful coup in Montenegro in 2016 and attempts to foment violence in Ukraine and Moldova to justify Russian military intervention.

"The reasons for failure were consistent," the RUSI analysts Jack Watling, Oleksandr Danylyuk, and Nick Reynolds said. "Poor operational security leading to the exposure of the plan to domestic security services and the disruption of its implementation; and inaccurate assessment by the Russian special services as to the extent of their influence in these countries." In addition, many European nations expelled Russian diplomats and spies after the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Inept operations  such as botched assassinations of GRU defectors in Britain  also didn't help.

Undaunted, Russia has rebuilt its capacity for unconventional warfare capabilities, or "active measures." To create a support network for its agents in Europe, it has switched from using Russian businessmen and expatriates to utilizing the Russian mafia and recruiting foreign students at Russian universities.

"As the war in Ukraine protracts, Russia has an interest in creating crises further afield," RUSI said. "The Balkans present a particularly serious set of opportunities for such enterprises. Russia also has an active interest in destabilizing Ukraine's partners, and with a slew of elections forthcoming across Europe there is a wide range of opportunities to exacerbate polarization."

Russia's state-sponsored mercenaries are meanwhile expanding their efforts in Africa and the Middle East by providing military support to dictators and warlords, from Libya and Mali to Sudan and the Central African Republic. The infamous Wagner Group  a private military corporation  seems to be subsumed, its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin having opposed Putin before dying in a mysterious plane crash. Instead, Russia is now offering a "regime survival package"  delivered via a GRU Expeditionary Corps of mercenary groups such as Convoy  to support clients against threats from Islamic rebels and rival factions.

"The Kremlin, through the GRU, has now set about seeking to build an 'Entente Roscolonial'  a group of states that actively seek to assist Russia, while also becoming increasingly subordinate to Russian influence  displacing Western interests across Africa and the Middle East," RUSI said.

At the same time, Ramzan Kadyrov, the powerful and ruthless leader of Russia's republic of Chechnya, is attempting to expand Moscow's influence among the Muslims of Central Asia and the Balkans. "Russian official propaganda and networks of hidden influence operating in Muslim countries push a romantic image of Kadyrov as a defender of Islam, opposing Western heretics who are trying to destroy traditional values," RUSI said.

Even so, Russia has become a target of Islamist terror groups such as ISIS-K, which claimed responsibility for the gunmen who killed more than 140 people at a Moscow concert on March 22.

Interestingly, the RUSI experts concluded that the West's best defense against Russian unconventional warfare wasn't to rebut Moscow's relentless flood of propaganda and fake news. "Countering disinformation  while important  is far less consequential than breaking Russia's access to and leverage over elites, and its support apparatus for active measures. This can be achieved through the exposure and arrest of its agents, intelligence officers, and activities."

But the West has to be careful not to become as repressive and paranoid as its enemy. "As a lot of Russia's unconventional operations are self-defeating, countering Russian unconventional warfare must be premised on careful, selective, and intelligence- driven targeting," the report emphasized. "This is why having a broad understanding of Russian forms and methods is essential; it protects a state from jumping at shadows."

Michael Peck is a defense writer whose work has appeared in Forbes, Defense News, Foreign Policy magazine, and other publications. He holds an MA in political science from Rutgers University. Follow him on X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Undated ballots are still unsettled in Pa. What if SCOTUS doesn't rule by the election?

Uncertainty regarding Pennsylvania's undated and mistakenly dated mail-in ballots remains a hanging chad ahead of the looming 2024 presidential election.

Litigation regarding Pennsylvania's undated, mistakenly dated and unsigned ballots been volleyed between courts ever since the state's no-excuse mail-in ballot law, Act 77, took effect in 2020. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided 2-1 with the Republican National Committee's position March 27 in ruling that these ballots shouldn't be counted, but that decision has just been appealed by the Pennsylvania State Conference of the NAACP and five other civil rights groups.

"This is one of many areas of law that remain unsettled when it comes to mail-in ballots," said Lisa Schaefer, executive director for the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.

"I think that's really where we are at this point. We will follow whatever the law is, whatever the courts tell us, but what we really need is the General Assembly and administration to make clarifications within the law itself."

Back to court: In Erie case, NAACP, others seek review of federal appellate ruling on Pa. mail-in ballots

Are undated ballots legal in Pa.?

Matt Heckel, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of State, said a ballot can't be counted unless it's been correctly dated and signed.

"Due to ongoing litigation, ballots that have been administratively determined to be undated or incorrectly dated should be set aside and segregated from other ballots," reads a state guidance last updated in April of 2023. "Counties may prefer to keep segregated undated and incorrectly dated ballots organized by precinct and alphabetically by last name within each precinct. The department strongly recommends that counties also segregate into separate groups of undated ballots versus incorrectly dated ballots."

The guidance also suggests for county election office personnel to remind voters to correctly date and sign their ballots before dropping them off.

Pa. Department of State reforms

To help prevent these careless errors from disqualifying votes, Gov. Josh Shapiro and Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt announced a ballot redesign. The initiative was billed as a way to create better uniformity among the commonwealth's 67 counties and to provide clearer instructions to voters.

"The Department of State believes every vote by a qualified voter should be counted, and we are continuing to work to ensure that is the case in Pennsylvania," Heckel said.

Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt, left, discusses voting procedures and challenges with Tina Pritts, Somerset County's director of voter registration and elections, at her office in the County Building.

"To that end, the Department has made significant proactive improvements to mail ballot materials designed to cut down on undated or misdated mail ballot envelopes. Among the changes on the redesigned mail ballot materials  which have been implemented for the 2024 primary election  are revised instructions to voters to make the process of properly filling out and returning a mail ballot clearer and more direct. These revisions are designed to decrease the number of voter errors that could cause them to be disenfranchised."

U.S. Supreme Court?

The NAACP's request for the full 3rd Circuit Court to rehear the case is a step that could ultimately bring this matter before the Supreme Court of the United States.

No matter the venue or decision, Schaefer said, she'd like for the question to be answered well in advance of the 2024 general election so both county election workers and voters are educated on the process before ballots are cast in this high-stakes election. Whether the U.S. Supreme Court will hear the case in time remains to be seen.

"That would certainly be our hope," Schaefer said.

Bruce Siwy is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network's Pennsylvania state capital bureau. He can be reached at bsiwy@gannett.com or on X at @BruceSiwy.

This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Can undated mail-in ballots be counted in Pennsylvania?
The U.S. welcomed me and so many other Cubans. We didnt just survive  we thrived | Opinion

On April 14, 60 years ago, I arrived in the United States of America, or el Norte, as most of us Cubans called it. Shy, introspective and curious at age 10, I stepped off a plane at John F. Kennedy Airport in Queens, New York.

Six months earlier, we had fled our homeland, escaping Castros authoritarian government to join hundreds of fellow refugees in Madrid. But now, on a crisp spring evening, we joined my maternal grandparents, aunt, uncle and cousins in New York City. El Norte. My North Star.

My first view of the city: grimy fire escapes lining dark brick buildings. Ugly and dirty.

Soon after, I was warmly ushered into a cozy apartment on 86th Street near Broadway which, although small, would become home.

I felt safe, an alien feeling after my previous years on the island. My last memories of Cuba were marked by fear. Since my maternal grandfather, Manuel Hortelano Entenza, had worked as an officer in the Cuban navy under President Fulgencio Batistas government, he was imprisoned and questioned at the notorious La Cabana prison.

Once he was released and left the country, we became the pariahs of the neighborhood. We applied to leave Cuba, and were labeled gusanos, or worms. Walking to the grocery store became a dreaded chore for me. Neighbors would point my way and whisper that dreaded word: Gusanos.

My parents lost many friends who became Fidelistas. I was pulled out of school for fear that I would be indoctrinated. Every night I prayed that we could leave before anyone else in the family was imprisoned or worse.

Arriving at los Estados Unidos meant safety and freedom  even as I struggled to learn a language so different from my native one. Even as I watched my parents, both professionals, labor in manual jobs as landscapers and factory workers. Even as I faced a new form of ostracism by U.S.-born classmates in Union City, New Jersey, who would taunt me: Where is Cuba anyway? Did you have bathrooms in Cuba?

That kind of treatment only strengthened my resolve. I mastered English and developed such a passion for its intricacies that my father started calling me Shakespeare. If my parents had made great sacrifices to take us out of a communist state, I felt I could not fail.

The U.S. gave me the chance to study at an Ivy League school. I opted to study journalism, because what could be nobler than seeking the truth?

My new country has afforded me a future that my island nation denied me. I felt pride and hope when I raised my hand in a Jersey City courtroom in 1977 and pledged to be a citizen of this magnanimous nation.

In 1980, I watched as more than 120,000 fellow Cubans abandoned the island through a port called Mariel. The tyranny was expelling its undesirables once again. In that exodus, for the first time, I saw Black Cubans, gays and many artists among the refugees. Castros revolution seemed to be unraveling and I wanted to learn from these new arrivals.

I was lucky enough to be hired as a cub reporter for the Miami Herald and got to spend many hours with young artists, veteran journalists, political prisoners. I learned much more about my tortured island. And I developed a pride in how Cubans had survived such oppression. Not just survived  we had thrived. In the process we had contributed to the burgeoning success of Miami, this splendid city by the bay that continues to be a beacon of hope for so many.

As I look back on my 60 years in el Norte, I feel eternally grateful that this great nation opened its arms to us. Troubled and divided as we may be, it is still a great privilege to be a U.S. citizen, a privilege that I will never take for granted.

Barbara Gutierrez is director of communications and public relations at the University of Miami. She worked at the Miami Herald for 17 years in positions including reporter, city desk editor and executive editor of El Nuevo Herald.
Why the college application process isn't adding up for students  and how to help them

Every year, I help several hundred high school seniors navigate the college admissions process. Our students are not typically wealthy. About 20% are considered low-income and eligible for Pell Grants, and about 80% have expressed concern about college affordability.

For this reason, we specialize in a cost-conscious college search, meaning we help students discover schools that are a good fit and are also within their budget. This is becoming increasingly difficult given the lack of transparency around the true cost of college.

Last August, I gave a student the same advice we give to all high school seniors: Run the net price calculator to ensure that the schools you choose to apply to are financially feasible. The net price calculator is a tool that, in theory, will tell the family what their out-of-pocket costs may be for each institution based on the financial information the calculator requests.

I wasnt surprised he discovered that the University of Delawares calculator was being updated and will be available again soon. I assumed that meant the institution was updating it to reflect the changes in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the updated tuition rates for the 2023-24 school year.

However, its now April and the calculator is still being updated. With the delays in processing FAFSA, like most families who are concerned about the cost of college, my client cant make his final college decision without more information.

When college net price calculator and financial aid don't add up

Federal law requires that postsecondary institutions post a net price calculator on their websites that uses institutional data to provide estimated net price information based on a student's individual circumstances.

By federal law, every college and university in America is required to provide a net price calculator, but there is a key piece missing from the legislation:

Because the Department of Education doesnt have an approval process to determine whether each schools calculator is in compliance, institutions are left to police themselves. Essentially, this means that nobody is checking to see if the calculator at each institution is an accurate depiction of the familys expected costs (or if the calculator exists, or if its in working order). Families are finding more frequently that the calculator results from across the country dont actually align with the financial aid offer they receive from those institutions.

Under the law, colleges are allowed to provide a link to an external calculator. When another student client ran the calculator for American University, its website linked to MyinTuition. It should also be noted that there are several other calculators on Americans website, including for 2020-21, so if a family isnt paying close attention, they may wind up completing the wrong one.

Will Biden forgive your student debt? Why those unable to resume payments will face disappointment and hardship

The link to MyinTuition has since been removed from Americans website and replaced with a link to another external vendor called Meadow, but that change happened after my client's family determined that the school could be a good financial fit and after she had submitted her application.

When she recently received her financial aid offer letter, the cost came in over $15,000 higher than what was indicated by MyinTuition.

If calculators arent accurate and available, or can change throughout the cycle, how can families make informed financial decisions throughout the college application process? As the cost of college continues to soar, it is critical that families can better predict the financial feasibility of institutions before their student spends hundreds of dollars applying.

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.

College financial aid letters can also be misleading

However, these calculators arent the only problem in the world of cost transparency. Financial aid letters are also incredibly misleading. Fortunately, Congress is aware of this issue.

In fact, I just returned from a second trip to Washington, D.C., where I was lobbying for sponsorship of the Understanding the True Cost of College Act. This bill attempts to streamline and improve transparency in the financial aid process by requiring that all colleges and universities in America provide a standardized and uniform financial aid offer letter with consistent standardized language.

It also would require that schools stop calling financial aid offers financial aid awards (because $60,000 in loans isnt an award by any standard).

Biden's legacy will be student loans. Everyone from Gen X to Gen Z should be happy.

This requirement would better enable families to compare financial aid offers because the line items will match up and it will be clear what money will require repayment. This is particularly critical following the discovery of astounding data from a 2022 Government Accountability Office report:

Many schools fail to utilize the word loan, even when the vast majority of the financial aid being awarded is indeed a loan and does require repayment.

Up to 31% of schools don't differentiate between gift aid (which doesn't require repayment) and loans (which do require repayment). Because the type of aid isn't clearly labeled, when families see the bottom line cost after aid is applied, they are unaware that most of that aid actually requires repayment, and that the out-of-pocket expense is significantly higher than what it appears to be in the financial aid offers.

65% of colleges leave out important information (like if the scholarship is renewable for subsequent years) that can impact whether or not a family can afford the school for more than one year.

91% of colleges understate the net price or fail to include it at all.

College acceptance season is always stressful for families, but this year has been especially fraught due to government delays in processing FAFSA. Hundreds of institutions are now delaying their enrollment deadlines to give families more time to make educated and fiscally sound decisions.

Jessica Chermak is a certified educational planner and licensed professional counselor.

When I talk to families, however, I know that colleges can do more to help prospective students understand the costs. It is imperative that the Department of Education hold institutions to higher standards if we want to avoid exacerbating the student debt crisis.

Clarity should come at the start of the college application process  not the very end.

Jessica Chermak is a certified educational planner and licensed professional counselor. Contact her at jessica@virtualcollegecounselors.com

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College applications lack true costs, adding to student debt crisis
Heres why a Florida company had to recall six kinds of ice cream and gelato desserts

Six kinds of ice cream and gelato treats distributed from Fort Myers have been recalled for inadequate labeling, making them a food allergy danger.

Belgian Yummies and the Florida Department of Agriculture discovered during an inspection that the product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat, soy, egg, coconut and/or peanuts and food coloring Yellow No. 5, Belgian Yummies recall notice stated. The problem was caused by outdated labels being used during the packaging process.

Whats recalled:

 Belgian Yummies Gelato, Strawberry flavor, which comes in a 5-liter gray container and has Yellow No. 5; Horchata flavor, which comes in a 4.75-liter pan has wheat; and Birthday Cake flavor, which comes in a 5-liter container and has wheat and Yellow No. 5. All have an expiration date of 8/31/2024.

The label for Belgian Yummies Gelato.

 Belgian Yummies Sandwiches, Vanilla, Chocolate, Key Lime, Salted Caramel, Raspberry and Peanut Butter flavors, which have soy, wheat, egg, coconut, and/or peanuts.

 Sofra Sandwiches, Chocolate and Vanilla flavors, which have wheat, soy, coconut and egg.

The label for a Sofra ice cream sandwich.

 Vanilla Ria Sandwiches, which have egg, soy, wheat and coconut.

Vanilla-flavored Ria Sandwiches label.

The sandwiches come in clear or gold packaging and have an expiration date of 8/31/2024.

People who have allergies to wheat, soy, egg, coconut, and/or peanuts or have a sensitivity to Yellow #5 run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products, the notice states.

These were distributed to wholesalers throughout Florida.

Anyone with questions about this recall can reach out to Belgian Yummies at 239-202-8146, Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern time or by emailing belgianyummies@gmail.com.

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TOKYO, Apr 12 (News On Japan) - A tea bowl made of pure gold, valued at 10 million yen, was stolen at around noon Thursday from the "Great Gold Exhibition" held at the busy Nihonbashi Takashimaya department store in Tokyo's Chuo district, leaving patrons and staff stunned.

The exhibition, known for showcasing a dazzling array of gold artifacts including golden dragons and sake vessels crafted by Living National Treasures, gathered over a thousand gold items, with prices ranging from several hundred thousand to millions of yen. Among these, the stolen tea bowl, crafted by a renowned artisan known for creating commemorative items for the Emperor's wedding, stood out as one of the exhibition's most valuable pieces.

The theft occurred around noon, with a staff member alerting the police at 12:16 PM after noticing the item's disappearance. Surveillance footage pinpointed the theft to approximately 11:40 AM, capturing a man making off with the tea bowl. The fleeing man, described as being in his 20s to 30s, was wearing a gray sweatshirt, carrying a backpack, dressed in dark trousers, and wearing glasses. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police are currently searching for the man's whereabouts.

Source: ANN
WASHINGTON DC, Apr 12 (News On Japan) - Prime Minister Kishida, currently visiting the United States, is set to discuss strengthening relations in defense and security.

Upon arriving in Washington, Kishida's first meeting was with Microsoft's Vice President, Brad Smith.

Smith announced plans for a significant investment in Japan, stating, "This will be our largest investment in Japan in our 46-year history."

Over the next two years, Microsoft intends to invest approximately 440 billion yen, including the establishment of new research centers in Tokyo focused on AI and robotics.

Smith also mentioned the pursuit of how AI can contribute to the security of Japan and the United States.

Tonight's Japan-U.S. summit will aim to solidify cooperation in the Self-Defense Forces and U.S. forces stationed in Japan, and enhance partnerships in areas such as AI and space.

Source: TBS
Malis ruling junta has issued a decree banning all political party activities until further notice, citing the need to maintain public order, which comes amid calls on the military-run authorities to organize free elections.

Malian political parties and civil society groups jointly rejected on Thursday the ruling juntas order to suspend political activities and vowed to mount a legal challenge to what one opposition politician called the dictatorial move.

Until further notice, for reasons of public order, the activities of political parties and the activities of a political character of associations are suspended across the whole country, government spokesman Abdoulaye Maiga said in a statement, citing a decree by junta leader Colonel Assimi Goita.

The decree was announced after more than 80 political parties and civil groups last week issued joint statements calling for presidential elections as soon as possible and an end to military rule. But Maigas statement did not specify any concrete threats to public order emanating from political parties and there was also no indication on when the suspension would be lifted.

The suspension of party activities was justified by the sterile discussions during an attempt at national dialogue earlier this year. While opposition voices have been largely stifled under the juntas rule, one of the opposition groups pledged in a joint statement to use all legal and legitimate avenues for the return of normal constitutional order in our country.

The United States expressed deep concern at the Malian move to halt political party activities, the U.S. State Department said on Thursday, calling on the military leaders to hold free and fair elections.

The ruling party has already sparked concerns from Washington and others by failing to organize polls within a promised 24-month transition back to democracy.

The Sahel country has been ruled by juntas since back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021, with the deteriorating security situation compounded by a humanitarian and political crisis. Though the junta pledged in June 2022 to hold presidential elections in February 2024 and transfer power back to civilians on 26 March, the vote was postponed indefinitely and the junta gave no further indication as to its intentions.
Strengthening the friendly relations between Morocco and Russia and topical issues in the Middle East and Africa on the agenda of the UN Security Council were the focus of meetings held on Thursday in Moscow between Moroccos ambassador to Russia, Lotfi Bouchaara, and two top officials from the Russian Foreign Ministry.

Talks between Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin and Moroccos ambassador focused on several topical issues in the Middle East and Africa on the agenda of the UN Security Council, a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

Particular attention was given to the settlement of the Sahara issue in light of the forthcoming discussion of the issue at the Security Council, the statement added.

In this connection, the Russian side stressed the importance of reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution to the Sahara issue based on the relevant Security Council resolutions, within the framework of procedures in line with the principles and objectives of the United Nations Charter, the statement said.

The Moroccan diplomat also conferred with Russias Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Representative of the President of Russia for the Middle East and Africa, Mikhail Bogdanov.

Strengthening the traditionally friendly relations between Russia and Morocco were at the center of the talks, with focus on the deepening of political dialogue on issues of common interest in the Middle East and Africa, the Russian Foreign Ministry underlined in another press release.
The US should craft a foreign policy in Africa that focuses on critical minerals to curb dependence on China, the United States Institute of Peace said.

US economic and national security depend on securing a reliable supply of critical minerals, including from Africa, the Washington-based Think tank said in a report.

The US relies on imports for the supply of most of the minerals used in energy transition, such as lithium and cobalt.

Especially concerning is that the United States is at or near 100% reliant on foreign entities of concern  mainly the Peoples Republic of China  for key critical minerals, says the report.

China takes the lead as far as the exploitation of rare minerals in Africa. Therefore, Washington must roll out more vigorous commercial diplomacy with a keen eye toward building critical minerals partnership in Africa, the 76-page report said.

The US is simply not on, or even near, par in competing with China for critical minerals investment and diplomacy in Africa, and needs to take a vigorous approach, it said.

Chinese firms owned or had stakes in 15 of the 19 cobalt producing mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) which produces more than 70% of the worlds cobalt.
Russia has sent a group of military trainers and air defense systems to Niger, few days after Niamey ended military cooperation with the US.

Niger has aligned itself with Moscow since a coup, that followed the example of neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso. The three coup-hit Sahel states have expelled French troops and bolstered ties with Moscow.

Broadcaster Tele Sahel showed a Russian transport plane arriving at Niamey airport, as it reported late on Thursday that the latest military equipment and military instructors from Russias Ministry of Defense had landed in the capital.

We are here to train the Nigerien army to use the military equipment that is here, one of the Russian trainers said in French in the broadcast. We are here to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.

State-run Radio Television du Niger said on its Facebook page that 100 Russian military instructors had arrived in Niamey.

Niger has yet to ask the US troops to leave the country. Some 1000 US soldiers are stationed in Niger where the US has a drone base.
French Societe General plans to sell its majority stake in its Moroccan branches to Saham group for 745 million euros, as it continues its divestment from the African continent.

The transaction which includes Societe Generale Marocaine de Banques and La Marocaine Vie is expected to be completed by end of 2024.

The French group owns 57% in La Societe Generale Marocaine de Banques, the largest lender in Morocco.

With this transaction, the bank becomes fully Moroccan after Saham, owned by former industry minister Moulay Hafid Alamy, takes over as majority stakeholder.

The transaction is reflective of the engagement of Moroccan investors in boosting the national economy, Alamy was quoted as saying following the signing ceremony.

Together with Societe Generale, represented by Slawomir Krupa, we had the pleasure of outlining a solid and long-term partnership between our two groups and looking to the future with peace of mind for SGMB, its customers, and its human resources, he said.

The deal would mark the return of Saham to the financial sector after the company sold its insurance business in 2018 to South Africas Sanlam for $1 billion.

In 2022, SGMB was the fourth largest bank in Morocco with over 1 million clients and a turnover of $12 billion. Its net banking income stood at $520 million with a net profit of $120 million.
Members of the Tangier judicial police successfully seized, this Friday morning, five kilograms of cocaine and large sums of money linked to illegal drug trafficking.

According to a security source, the investigation into this case led to the arrest of an individual involved in drug trafficking. He was found in possession of five kilograms of cocaine and a vehicle suspected of being used for transporting and trafficking drugs.

Further searches led to the discovery of large amounts of money, totaling approximately 8.5 million dirhams, along with another sum in European currency. These funds are believed to be proceeds from the trafficking of hard drugs.

The suspect has been placed in police custody. Investigations are underway to apprehend other individuals involved in the case.